Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine March, 2018 issue

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March 2018

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CONTRIBUTORS

(L to R) Matt Timmins is an Ontario-born photographer with a background in photojournalism. He moved to the Rockies in 2008, and made the move to Revelstoke three years later. His love for travel and the outdoors have kept him on the move the last couple of years, but he always finds his way back to Revelstoke. You can see his work at matthewtimminsphoto.com Heather Hood aspires to never be too serious, see the wonderment in every day life and take advantage of any opportunity to rhyme. She can always find an occasion to drink bubbly and has a great passion for wine.

Emily Stone is a British ski bum and aspiring freelance adventure writer. Now on her third winter season, she can be found ripping through the glades at RMR or sinking pints of Mt. Begbie in the Last Drop.

Melissa Jameson is the civic affairs reporter for Revelstoke Mountianeer Magazine and revelstokemountaineer.com. Contact Melissa with your news tips and story ideas at melissa@revelstokemountaineer.com, Claudia Bambi is a graphic designer and illustrator based in Revelstoke. Her illustrations are designed to transport you to an imaginary world of wonderment.

Kale Bajowsky is one of those mythological creatures who actually grew up in Revelstoke, and now writes Learning to Kale (learningtokale.blogspot.ca) a personal blog about being a failed writer. You can also find subpar drawings @learningtokale on Instagram.

Laura Hodge is a writer originally from the UK. A keen snowboarder and yoga enthusiast, Laura’s favourite things include powder days, long hikes and slowly working her way through the menus of Revelstoke’s many coffee shops.

Imogen Whale is a Revelstoke-based writer. When she’s taking a break from the keyboard, you can find her riding her horse down at the Selkirk Saddle Club.

Bryce Borlick Bryce Borlick is a local traveler, professional recreationalist, and a big small-thinker who can be found lost in the mountains in search of nothing in particular.

Cori Sorowka is a passionate world traveller and cook who’s recently pursued a career as a nutritionist. Her dedication to discovery and learning about different cultures and food has taken her to all corners of the globe and by last count the only continent she has yet to step foot on is Antarctica.

Sarah j Spurr moved west five-and-a-half years ago from Kawartha Lakes, Ontario. My own world expands when I tread further, exploring new physical challenges alongside creative outlets. Here, I’m interested in connecting with others to showcase how they allow their own special blend of originality to flow. Living in the thick of this mountain environment what are you creating? Where does it stem from? Your story is soul food for the rest of us.

Louise Stanway is an English literature graduate who gladly ditched the British rains for that colder B.C. good stuff. In the winter months you’ll find Louise hibernating in a cave of down jackets up at the RMR retail store, or face down in the pow with a wide smile still on her face.

Cover image: Revelstoke artist and graphic designer Claudia Bambi is profiled in our March artist feature by Sarah j Spurr on pages 18 and 19.

Our March cover issue is one of the recent graphic art creations by Bambi.

Image: Claudia Bambi

Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is Revelstoke’s locally owned, independent print monthly. We deliver 3,000 copies to over 200 locations across Revelstoke. We get seen by a broad demographic. Our advertising rates are lower than a snake’s belly in a wheel rut. Want to get your products and services seen in Revy? Contact our full-service sales and graphics department today.

Phone: 250-814-8710 Email: info@revelstokemountaineer.com Web: revelstokemountaineer.com Ad rates: www.revelstokemountaineer.com/advertise/

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NEWS BRIEFS

City preparing for legalization of cannabis Public consultation process planned for marijuana business applicants Mountaineer News Briefs by Melissa Jameson Municipalities across the country are reviewing policies and bylaws in preparation for the legalization of recreational marijuana this summer. The Liberal federal government announced legislation to legalize marijuana across Canada last year.

In Revelstoke, city staff are working on interim bylaw amendments that more clearly articulate the current prohibition of retail sales.

Nigel Whitehead, director of development services, said the bylaw will remain in place until further information is received from the province and staff are able to develop and implement a regulatory system. The B.C. provincial

government released its policy guidelines for the distribution and sale of cannabis in early February. Whitehead said the documents released by the provincial government appear to be a policy document and not the final regulations. He said the city plans to review the document in depth to help staff determine what regulations are required at the municipal level.

A regulatory system for permitting retails sales of cannabis in Revelstoke will go through a public consultation process and city council will have the final say.

“At this time I can’t say when this process will be completed in Revelstoke,”

The city of Revelstoke is waiting to receive further information from the province before developing a regulatory system for retail sales of cannabis. said Whitehead.

The process for a regulatory system in Revelstoke may or may not be completed prior to federal legalization, which is now expected to occur sometime in August. In the meantime, Revelstoke is not permitting retail sales of cannabis until regulations are put in place. It is expected each municipality will have its own timeline in terms of when their regulations around cannabis sales are put into effect. Whitehead said he has heard of municipalities expressing concern to both the federal and provincial govern-

ments that the current timeframe for legalization is too short. There is also concern that there are a lack of resources to help municipalities develop adequate regulations prior to legalization, a view Whitehead says he shares.

Currently storefront sales of both medicinal and recreational cannabis remain illegal under federal law.

Medicinal cannabis is only permitted to be sold to prescription holders by mail order through federally authorized producers and distributors.

this as a monitoring service to get the information needed to develop and bring to council further regulatory changes to refine and make more effective our current vacation rental program,” said Whitehead. Part of the refinements include a more active enforcement process.

The city is also looking at other municipalities including Nelson, Canmore, Tofino, and Lake Tahoe to look at what further work can be done

to mitigate residential impacts of the short term rental industry while balancing the desire of some homeowners to operate vacation rentals as good neighbours.

Plans are in the works to provide information and options to council sometime in late March.

City exploring digital enforcement of vacation rentals Third-party online monitoring services could help improve enforcement of vacation rental bylaw.

The City of Revelstoke is looking to up the ante when it comes to enforcing its vacation rental bylaw. Nigel Whitehead, director of development services, said city staff are researching ways to improve current regulations for vacation rentals, particularly illegal vacation rentals. Revelstoke’s vacation rental bylaw is currently enforced on a complaint basis, something the city has received flack for from various residents and tourism industry operators.

Part of the planned improvements include use of a third-party contractor to help the city crack down on illegal vacation rentals by monitoring

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online vacation rental websites such as Airbnb, Expedia and TripAdvisor.

Whitehead told the Mountaineer the city has contracted Silicon Valley company Host Compliance to provide compliance services. Host Compliance offers local governments a range of services around short term rental regulations using big data technology to find and track short-term rental postings across the web. The company compiles this information and provides local government with evidence needed to actively enforce against illegal short-term rental property owners.

“At this point City staff are using

WALK-IN’S WEEKLY LEAGUE PLAY BIRTHDAY PARTIES STAFF PARTIES Indoor Axe Throwing is Awsome!

Peak Axe Throwing offers a unique social experience, a POSITIVE energetic environment, and some friendly competition among friends.

Our facility hosts 2 seperate throwing lanes each with 2 GIANT spruce log targets, a quality sound system to keep the energy right and a comfortable lounge to grab a seat if you need a rest.

We’ll teach you everything you need to know even if you have NEVER thrown an axe before.

Becasue let’s face it, not many of us have.

BOOK ONLINE The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club celebrates its 50th anniversary in March with a banquet on Mar. 23. Photo: submitted

Revelstoke Snowmobile Club celebrates 50 years Club hosting BC Snowmobile Federation excellence awards and gala The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club is celebrating its 50th year as a snowmobile club in 2018.

To celebrate, the club has a number of events planned for the weekend of March 23–25, including the BC Snowmobile Federation’s excellence awards, which are expected to attract snowmobilers from across the province.

The weekend kicks off with a banquet dinner and dance at the Revelstoke Community Centre on Friday, March 23. Past presidents are invited and the RSC will acknowledge their work in getting the club to where it is today. On Saturday, March 24, the BCSF annual general meeting and excellence awards gala takes place. The excellence awards honour individuals, clubs, associations and businesses in the province that have made a significant contribution to the popularity and appeal of the sport, have made a remarkable effort to promote responsibility and unity in the snowmobile community, or have provided exceptional service to snowmobilers.

This year, the BCSF is presenting the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Federation’s Dealer of the Year award to Five Star Motor Sports out of Chilliwack, B.C. Five Star Motor Sports earned the national excellence award for its dedication to customers, the sport of snowmobiling and their snowmobile club.

One of the oldest and largest snowmobile clubs in the province, the mandate of the RSC is to promote the recreational sport of snowmobiling, to work with government to keep riding areas open and at the same time to promote awareness of the protected areas for mountain caribou. RSC promotes safe and responsible use of snowmobiles and the importance of being avalanche aware. The club also encourages snowmobilers to practice environmental awareness and is a signing partner on a trail management agreement with the provincial government. Under the agreement, the club manages Boulder Mountain and Frisby Mountain grooming trails and charging a fee to riders.

The club hosts several events each year including a ladies ride and a vintage snowmobile ride. The RSC also organizes fundraisers to benefit local charity groups.

A 50th anniversary celebration ride is planned for Sunday, March 25. For full details about the RSC’s 50th anniversary events and the BCSF AGM and excellence awards gala visit revelstokesnowmobileclub.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Black Umfolosi share African culture through story, song and dance Group aspires to create a global village focusing on the importance of cultural diversity

By Melissa Jameson For the members of Black Umfolosi performing on stage is about much more than entertaining audiences; it’s a way to share their African culture and heritage with the world.

“When you go on stage and do a performance you represent the way of living that is found among your people. When we come on stage it’s giving people who have no chance to travel to have glimpse of what Africa looks like,” said founding member Thomeki Dube.

Through songs, dance and storytelling, Black Umfolosi share the rich traditions and cultural diversity found in areas of Zimbabwe and South Africa where members of the group can trace their ancestral heritage. Even the group’s name has a connection to that cultural diversity and heritage. Black Umfolosi is named after the Umfolozi Omnyama River in South Africa where the group can trace their ancestral roots.

Dube said the traditions and culture found in Zululand in South Africa relate in many ways to the cultural landscape found in Zimbabwe.

“It’s the same group of people, the same traditions, the same culture, but when people move to another location the originality changes, other cultures provide an influence. That’s what makes our culture very rich and highly diversified,” said Dube.

Those various cultural influences are part of the South African gumboot dance, which Black Umfolosi will perform. The dance is performed by dancers wearing rubber boots. Dancers build rhythm through slapping their rubber boots in a unique pattern.

Music is created through the process of stomping, slapping, and dancing. Dube said the simple yet highly entertain-

Black Umfolosi brings African dance, rythyms and culture to the the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre Mar. 23. ing dance has evolved quite a lot from its oppressive roots. In South African mines, immigrant miners worked under hard conditions and were not allowed to speak or communicate with one another. Many of the workers came from different countries in Africa and did not speak the same language. Needing to create a way to communicate, the workers began to create sounds by slapping their gumboots.

“They would slap them in a way that they could understand but the boss or mine owners could not understand what was going on,” said Dube. “Later it was transformed into an actual dance because it sounded very nice to communicate through slapping and stomping.”

Revelstoke Arts Council Executive Director Miriam Manley said the gumboot

dance is incredibly powerful to see.

“It’s super visceral and unique,” she said.

Black Umfolosi has shared their cultural roots on stage through song and dance for the past 35 years. Having performed internationally, Dube said the group’s roots have a much humbler beginning. As a youth Dube and his friends attended a boarding school in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The school lacked in social facilities such as a pool or music room.

Dube said it was sheer boredom that led to the students creating a choir in 1982, where they performed songs and incorporated dances. In 1986 when the members were getting ready to leave the school, they sat down to decide what would become of the choir. Some choose to leave and some chose to remain, forming Black Umfolosi. Decades

later, Dube says Black Umfolosi still feel privileged to be invited to perform internationally. Their performance is one of the only times an international group has come to Revelstoke.

“We prefer to share as much as possible.

It’s important for people to share cultures. It makes a beautiful global village where people can begin to appreciate much more,” he said.

Black Umfolosi perform at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, March 24 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $20/adults and $10/kids. Tickets can be purchased online at revelstokeartscouncil.com. Tickets are also available at the Revelstoke Visitor Centre at 301 Victoria Road.

SATURDAY MARCH 24, 7:30PM

Black Umfolosi were formed in 1982 by school friends in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, who named themselves after the Umfolozi Omnyama River in South Africa – to where their ancestors can be traced.

TICKETS: ADULTS $20, KIDS $10 Available at the Visitor Centre & online at www.revelstokeartscouncil.com

BLACK UMFOLOSI 6

ENTERTAINMENT

Inspired by local forestry scene, Peak Axe Throwing opens its doors

By Matthew Timmins The tourists look up out of their windows in awe as they pull up to the stop sign at Victoria and Mackenzie while trucks carrying giant cedar trunks dwarf their rental cars. The locals do the classic Revy lane switch as to not get stuck behind the slow moving tonne of wood so they can get to the ski hill a little quicker. Neither demographic likely thinks about it again.

But one Revelstoke local who has found inspiration from the heart of the community – the forestry industry – is trying to bridge that gap between industry and public by offering a uniquely Canadian, Revelstoke-based experience.

Peak Axe Throwing opened its doors to the public last month, allowing guests a chance to try their hand at throwing an axe at a 120-pound, three-foot-wide giant spruce target, or challenging their friends in various competitions.

“I’m inspired by the Revelstoke community, and at the heart of it is Interior forestry. We have a huge sawmill, the Downie sawmill (Downie Timber Ltd & Selkirk Cedar), and we have other ones too,” says owner Dustin Roskam. “There are like five different sawmills in Revelstoke that don’t come to mind to people.

When people hear Revelstoke, the first thing people think is skiing.”

Offering a unique experience for locals and visitors, Roskam has a freshly renovated space conveniently located on the corner of Rokeby Avenue and Victoria Road — where logging trucks pass by like clockwork. With two double-wide throwing lanes holding massive targets from a spruce tree he purchased from Downie, it’s the newest spot to get your lumberjack on. And because only two people can be in the throwing lanes at

Dustin Roskam checks the score at Peak Axe Throwing, Revelstoke’s newest family entertainment establishment.

Photo: Matthew Timmins/Revelstoke Mountaineer a time, a lounge area featuring historic photos from the Revelstoke Museum and Archives and artifacts from the BC Interior Forestry Museum is the perfect place for your group to hang out, eat and watch the axes fly from behind the safety a chain-link fence.

Intended for visitors to town, work or birthday parties and even something to do after dinner, (or during dinner – Roskam encourages people bring their own pizza or take-out) he hopes Peak Axe Throwing will help fill a void

of things to do in Revelstoke in the evenings.

With no experience necessary and available to ages ten and over, he says getting the hang of throwing an axe isn’t really based on athletic ability.

Each group begins with safety and throwing instructions from Roskam, after which they can choose from a range of competitions, games and trick throws. “It takes a little bit, it’s a new skill for [most people],” Roskam says, but everyone usually the hang of it.

Roskam plans to get an axe-throwing league started once a week where regulars can come and compete against each other throughout a season, followed by a playoff-style competition. League throwers get their own axe, which they can add their own creative spin to by adding artwork or their names on them and leaving them on display on the wall.

Not sure if you’re ready to join an axe throwing league? You can try it out first by making a reservation online at www.peakaxethrowing.ca.

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CALENDAR

March 2018

Visit revelstokemountaineer.com/calendar for more details and to submit your own event for FREE for inclusion online and in our monthly print calendar.

Weekly Events Mondays

Soup & A Smile @ Revelstoke United Church 11:30a.m.—1p.m.

Enjoy a soup, coffee, tea and desserts every Monday at the United Church. All are welcome.

Valley Social (Industry Night) @ The Last Drop Pub 9 p.m.—11:45 p.m.

Revelstoke’s hottest industry night takes place every Monday at the Last Drop Pub. Tuesday Knitting Club @ Revelstoke Library 6:30 p.m.—8 p.m.

All crafters welcome! Crochet, cross-stitch, knit, embroider. Extra wool and needles for beginners.

Trivia Night by Pubstumpers @ Last Drop Pub 7:30 p.m.

PubStumpers is a whirlwind of trivia, presented in numerous forms, which stimulates the mind and challenges players’ knowledge on a vast array of topics.

Hip Hop Tuesdays @ Traverse 9 p.m.

All hip-hop all night every Tuesday at Traverse. Free cover and free pool.

Wednesday Locals Night @ The Cabin 6 p.m.

Locals can enjoy bowling for $3 a game every Wednesday night.

Open Mic Night @ The Last Drop Pub 10 p.m.

The Last Drop welcomes all jammers and singers.

Come out and join in with a friendly relaxed atmosphere from 10 p.m.

Brown Bag History @ Revelstoke Museum & Archives 12:15 p.m.—1 p.m.

Every other Wednesday listen to museum curator Cathy English talk about Revelstoke history.

Thursday Winter Market @ Revelstoke Community Centre 1 p.m.—5 p.m.

The Winter Market features farm and craft vendors from Revelstoke and beyond. It is held every second Thursday afternoon at the Revelstoke Community Centre.

Trivia Night @ Mackenzie Common Tavern 6p.m.—9p.m.

Are you smarter than the average ski bum? Come prove it every Thursday night at the Mackenzie Common Tavern at Revelstoke Mountain Resort.

Karaoke Night @ River City Pub 9:30 p.m.—11:45 p.m.

Sing your heart out every Thursday night at the River City Pub. Free of charge.

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Friday Drop-in Curling @ Revelstoke Curling Club 7 p.m.

Drop-in curling takes place at the Revelstoke Curling Club every Friday night starting December 1.

of freeride and freestyle and crown the most well-rounded rider. The event focuses on a unique hand-built freeride venue under the Stoke Chair and a custom course in the Terrain Park.

Patty’s Cruzin’ Karaoke @ The Revelstoke Legion 8 p.m.—12 a.m.

Join Patty for an evening of Karaoke, every Friday night.

Open Annual Cash Spiel @ Revelstoke Curling Club All day Watch as teams compete in the annual Open Cash Spiel.

March Events Thursday, March 1 Revelstoke Grizzlies Playoff Game @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

Catch the Revelstoke Grizzlies in playoff action! (*This game is dependent on Grizzlies standing in the playoffs.

Check www.revelstokegrizzlies.com to confirm schedule.

Friday, March 2 Open Annual Cash Spiel @ Revelstoke Curling Club 6 p.m.

Watch as teams compete in the annual Open Cash Spiel.

7 Inches of Pleasure Tour @ Traverse 9 p.m.

Monster Energy presents the 7 Inches of Pleasure Western Canada Tour 2018! Monster DJs and their friends take over clubs in BC and Alberta with their ALL 45’s, no computers approach dance party! Featuring Mat the Alien, Vinyl Ritchie, DJ ILLO. $5 Saturday, March3 K2 King of the Mountain @ RMR All day This unique competition aims to meld the worlds of freeride and freestyle and crown the most well-rounded rider.

Open Annual Cash Spiel @ Revelstoke Curling Club All Day Watch as teams compete in the annual Open Cash Spiel.

Revelstoke Grizzlies Playoff Game @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

Catch the Revelstoke Grizzlies in playoff action! (*This game is dependent on Grizzlies standing in the playoffs.

Check www.revelstokegrizzlies.com to confirm schedule.)

UFC 222 @ River City Pub 7 p.m.—10 p.m.

Cris Cyborg defends her featherweight crown against former Invicta FC champion Yana Kunitskaya. No cover.

The Decoys @ Traverse 10 p.m.

The Decoys play music from a wide range of artists including The Beatles, Stones, Johnny Cash, Mumford & Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show and more.

Sunday, March 4 K2 King of the Mountain @ RMR All day This unique competition aims to meld the worlds

Friday, March 9 Devon Coyote @ River City Pub 9 p.m.

Devon Coyote is rocking the house all weekend long.

Saturday, March 10 March Rail Jam @ Revelstoke Mountain Resort 5:30p.m.

Features will be set up on the Last Spike for an open format jam. Helmets are mandatory. Entry is $10 plus a $20 bib deposit.

Devon Coyote @ River City Pub 9 p.m.

Devon Coyote is rocking the house all weekend long.

Friday, March 16 Mountain Magic Tour @ Traverse 10 p.m.

The Mountain Magic Tour features small town DJs Christian Martin & Justin Martin and friends. $10 cover charge.

Saturday, March 17 The New Groovement @ Traverse 9p.m.—2a.m.

New Groovement’s newest release ‘Tired of Waiting’ features sultry singing, clever raps, vibrant horns, and a catchy danceable sound.

Thursday, March 22 LFI Seed Swap @ Revelstoke Community Centre 10a.m.—5p.m.

LFI is hosting a Seed Sale and Seed Swap to get you access to some amazing local seeds for a good cause.

The Hillties @ Last Drop Pub 10 p.m.

The Hillties are a four piece band (champman stick, ukulele, guitar, drums and three part harmonies) based out of Nelson /Victoria BC. Ineke Vandoorn & Marc van Vugt @ Revelstoke Jazz Club 7:30 p.m.

Ineke Vandoorn, piano and vocals, and her partner in music Marc van Vugt, guitar, explore musical boundaries in an admirable and fascinating way. The Revelstoke Jazz club is located in the Selkirk Room of the Regent Inn. Friday, March 23 Revelstoke Snowmobile Club 50th Anniversary Banquet @ Revelstoke Community Centre.

6p.m.—12 a.m.

Celebrate the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club’s 50th anniversary. Tickets are $45/each and are available online at http://revelstokesnowmobileclub.com

CALENDAR

Ineke Vandoorn and Marc van Vugt play the Revelstoke Jazz Club Mar. 22 Neon Steve @ Traverse 11 p.m.

Peer-declared nice guy and Shambhala Music Festival resident Neon Steve brings his luminous attire and fresh beats to Revelstoke.

Toronto-based Union Duke play soulful indie with Bluegrass and country flavours on Mar 24 at Traverse.

Saturday, March 24 Junior Freeride Open @ Revelstoke Mountain Resort 8:30 a.m.

Watch junior athletes rip it up during this two-day event. Athletes will have a qualifier day and competition day on Separate Reality. Spectators are advised to watch from the bottom of the run.

BCSF Spring Meeting/Excellence Awards Gala @ Revelstoke Community Centre 6 p.m.—12 a.m.

The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club hosts the BCSF Spring Meeting and Excellence Awards Gala. For information visit revelstokesnowmobileclub.com Black Umfolosi @ Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre 7:30 p.m.

Black Umfolosi’s famous Gumboot Dances showcase the traditional styles and rituals of the South African mining regions and are a particular crowd pleaser Tickets $20 adults, $10 children available at revelstokeartscouncil.com.

The Revelstoke Local Food Initiative is hosting a Seed Sale and Swap to get you ready for the 2018 growing season on Mar. 22 at the Revelstoke Community Centre.

Union Duke @Traverse 10 p.m.

Toronto-based folk quintet Union Duke play soulful indie rock with bluegrass and country.

Sunday, March 25 Junior Freeride Open @ Revelstoke Mountain Resort 8:30 a.m.

Watch junior athletes rip it up during this two-day event. Athletes will have a qualifier day and competition day on Separate Reality. Spectators are advised to watch from the bottom of the run 50th Anniversary Ride @ Revelstoke Snowmobile Club 9 a.m.—6 p.m The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club is hosting a club ride to celebrate its 50th anniversary. For details visit http://revelstokesnowmobileclub.com.

Wednesday, March 28 The Divine Order @ Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre.

7:30 p.m.

Part of the Revelstoke Multicultural Society’s Movies in the Mountains Series. A housewife rebels against sexism by leading the fight for women’s suffrage in 1971 Switzerland. Tickets $8, available at revelstokeartscouncil.com or the Revelstoke Visitor Info Centre.

Friday, March 30 Michael Charles @ River City Pub 10 p.m.

Eight times Grammy elected artist Michael Charles performs blues and jazz at River City Pub. Saturday, March 31 The Masquerade Under the Sea @ Traverse 9 p.m.—2 a.m.

Dress up as your favourite sea character and enjoy an evening of excellent house music and dancing at the 8th annual masquerade party! No mask = no boogie.

For ticket check out @TraverseRevelstoke on Facebook.

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LUNA

Trashion show walks the talk

NOCTURNAL ART & WONDER REVELSTOKE, BC

CALL FOR

ARTISTS! Sept 29, 6pm-midnight

By Kale Bajowsky

the

Luna-verse

2018

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN

Featuring over 25 artists, Luna brings art & energy to downtown Revelstoke

What are we looking for?

Outstanding and creative art pieces (think BIG and outside the box!)

Works that are interactive and installation based Art that incorporates new and alternative media Site specific installations that use our wonderful city scape Luna is produced by the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, the Revelstoke Arts Council and the Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce.

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Submission forms:

www.revelstokeartgallery.ca

Submit to:

lunaartfest@gmail.com Artist Compensation: $500 per piece

Deadline: April 15th CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ACCOMMODATION ASSOCIATION

So I’m sitting here at my office, also known as DOSE Coffee, after having spent the morning chatting up local ‘ecopreneur,’ Birch & Lace’s Sara Sansom, about this year’s upcoming Trashion Show, and as always, she’s left me feeling deeply inspired and buzzing with thought.

Sara Sansom, owner and visionary behind Birch & Lace and Feather & Stone Day Spa, never ceases to amaze me with all she has to say on how we can do better for our planet. What amazes me even more, is her willingness to walk that talk.

Having started Birch & Lace Hair Company with the desire to reduce waste in her chosen field, Sara told me that although she had a lot of fear around starting a business, she knew it would be the only way to create real change.

Sara opened the doors to Birch & Lace in October of 2014 – a gorgeous space on Second Street, filled with repurposed furniture and glowing with Sara’s personal style. Last year, Birch & Lace relocated to 114 First Street West due to their desire to be in a building that could be more supportive of their energy efficiency goals – a move that says a lot about where Sara’s priorities are.

From the very beginning, Birch & Lace has made it their mission to provide quality service while responsibly disposing of all materials, including chemicals, foils – and even hair! That’s right, when you get your locks chopped at Birch & Lace, you are donating that hair to be used to help clean up oil spills. You can find out more at greencirclesalons.ca.

Sara told me over coffee this morning, that one of the most exciting things about her success, is being in a position to challenge companies who wish to be in the Birch & Lace catalogue, always asking, “How can we package this in a less wasteful manner? How can we make it greener?” Whether or not they are willing to take her up on a challenge, makes deciding whether or not to consider carrying their product a lot easier.

Speaking of challenges, The Third Annual Trashion Show, a fun and creative event that encourages participants to make fashion out of trash will take place this Earth Day, on April 22.

All proceeds of the event will be split evenly between WaterAid and the local North Columbia Environmental Society. It’s especially important to Sara to support NCES – the Trashion Show is their biggest fundraiser.

Participants for the show may enter unlimited outfits, in person, at Birch and Lace, for an initial $25 entrance fee and just $10 for any additional entries. The entry fee includes your pass – as well as your model’s pass for the show.

Join the conversation now, on Instagram, by following @sansomandstrand, where Sara will be documenting her efforts to reduce waste in her personal life, @ learningtokale where you can follow the trials and tribulations of my dress making progress, and of course, @birchandlacehaircompany, for more details on the Trashion Show, as well as other upcoming events and fundraisers – and for gorgeous hair, because lets not forget about the hair!

Tickets for the Trashion Show will be sold for $10 in advance, at Birch & Lace, and for $15 at the event.

OUTDOORS

Fat or fad?

Can fat bikers bring a new winter sport to Revelstoke?

By Bryce Borlick Cyclists seem to love absurdity. It all started with the penny farthing, the bicycle with the awkwardly huge front wheel that was responsible for many Victorian-era faceplants. Since then people have built bicycles for cliff jumping, polo, jousting, basketball and lowriding. Bikes with square wheels, bikes for two, and bikes with treadmills instead of pedals. And now there are fat bikes built specifically for riding on snow and they may soon be faceplanting right here in Revelstoke.

Fat bikes are mountain bikes outfitted with tires between 3.7 to 4 inches in width, roughly double that of a normal tire, that give them extra flotation on snow. Originally conceived in 1987 to compete in the Iditabike race that traverses hundreds of kilometres of Alaskan tundra, fat bikes have gained traction worldwide in places that have long snowy winters. Riders generally stick to areas with a naturally thin snow pack, or they rely on grooming machines to pack a firm track.

But couldn’t they just ski instead?

“I wouldn’t say they do it instead of skiing. The fat bike could come into play for a number of reasons,” explains Mike Gravelle, owner and manager of Skookum Cycle and Ski. “Commuting, early morning warm up, and some people just want to be outside exploring, breathing in the fresh air.”

Fat biking conditions also tend to be optimal when ski conditions are sub-par so it meshes nicely in a ski town. Of course, true enthusiasts will point out that it’s just plain old fun that has grown the niche so much in recent years.

“It is growing every year,” says Magne Kvam who operates Icebike, an Icelandic mountain bike tour company. “For the more hardcore trips, like the heli fat biking trips, we get clients coming in specifically for that.”

Closer to home in Vernon, B.C., Silver Star Mountain Resort has groomed over 15 kilometres of fat biking trails that weave through the base area. Similarly, in Rossland, B.C. fat bikers are into their fifth winter of riding and have now progressed to grooming the trails with machinery they purchased last year. From the sounds of it, fat could be getting big.

But is it a good fit for Revelstoke?

“We have a deep snow pack and to ride in Revelstoke you need frequent grooming to create a solid base,” continues Mike. “We need (a groomer) that can plough through deep snow, and perhaps deal with a heavy wet snow at times.”

Trail groomers, which move at roughly walking pace with a skilled operator, don’t come cheap at five to ten thousand dollars each. That’s why Matt Yaki, owner of Wandering Wheels bike guiding service, is spearheading a fundraising effort similar to a recent one in Inver-

mere BC that raised the necessary cash in just ten days. So far Revelstoke is off to a slower start.

“It’s tough because the snow is so deep this year and the skiing is so good,” says Matt. “Plus Revelstoke has such a strong ski culture which makes it challenging to promote and grow a new sport like fat biking.”

Nevertheless, the fundraiser continues, aiming to raise $5,500 by November 2018 and to have the first corduroy singletracks laid down not long after.

Portions of Lower Macpherson are tentatively earmarked for grooming since the grades are appropriate and since the Revelstoke Cycling Association already has a well-established land use agreement for the area.

If you’re thinking some corduroy singletrack sounds great for walking your dog or pedaling your summer steed, think again. The groomed tracks are easily damaged by snowshoes, skis, and even ordinary mountain bike tires so trail networks like Silver Star’s often require a minimum tire width of 3.75” and a maximum tire pressure of eight psi.

“Tactful trail etiquette signs are a good idea,” suggests Tyler Merringer of Revolution Cycles, one of the early proponents of fat biking in Rossland.

However, he also points out that trail conditions improve as fat bike traffic increases. “More traffic equals more compaction so it’s a win-win.”

There’s a palpable ‘build it and they will come’ kind of optimism amongst fat bike devotees that the sport will reach a tipping point and catch on quickly.

“If someone were to develop a groomed, singletrack fat bike trail network, then more people would start riding and we can keep riding all winter long,” Matt says optimistically. “The possibilities are pretty exciting!”

While there is still a lot up in the air, if fat bikes land in Revelstoke one thing is for sure: epic faceplants.

A new inititiave seeks to carve out fat bike trails in the Revelstoke area, but the up front cost of a special grooming machine is steep.

Photo: Magne Kvam/Ice Bike Adventures

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NEWS

Federal government intervention on Mountain Caribou issue creates uncertainty, concern for stakeholders The federal government’s foray into the B.C. caribou conservation issue under Section 11 of the Species at Risk Act is a cause for concern and interest for a spectrum of backcountry stakeholders including the forest industry, environmental groups and mechanized recreationists such as snowmobilers, ATVers and heliskiing companies.

By Melissa Jameson One of the only remaining subspecies to live in rugged, mountainous terrain, the future of the endangered Southern Mountain Caribou is uncertain. Efforts to promote sustainability and growth have largely been unsuccessful with Southern Mountain Caribou populations throughout B.C. continuing to experience declining herd numbers.

This includes herds in the Revelstoke-Shuswap area.

In an effort to support the survival and recovery of Southern Mountain Caribou, the provincial and federal governments are entering into a joint conservation agreement through the Species at Risk Act (SARA). Under section 11 of the act, a federal minister can exercise their power to enter into an agreement with another Canadian government, organization or person to enhance the survival chances of a species at risk.

Currently in draft form, the implications of the Conservation Agreement for the Southern Mountain Caribou remain largely unknown. Stakeholders and provincial government representatives say the draft agreement provides only vague

details and doesn’t give an adequate timeline. Under the agreement, the initial focus on recovery is exclusive to the Central Group herds in the Pine River, Quintette, and Narraway local population units. It is likely the agreement would form a template for Southern Mountain Caribou herds, but the agreement does not include a timeline for inclusion of other local population units in the province.

Wildsight conservation assistant Eddie Petryshen said while it’s a good start, the meat of the agreement remains missing.

He’d like to see a landscape approach take place rather than the current piecemeal approach.

“A lot of times these plans aren’t inclusive enough.” He said Chris Ritchie, director of the Ministry of Forests provincial caribou program, said the agreement covers a large area and the uncertainty creates a challenge when it comes to how various industries will plan for the future. The Section 11 order for a joint agreement on Southern Mountain Caribou conservation is new for B.C. Ritchie said there has never been such an order in the province. To top that off, the federal and provincial government use different wording to de-

scribe herds and local population units.

“There is terminology the federal and provincial governments have been tripping over,” said Ritchie.

Helicat Canada executive director Ian Tomm agrees the difference in terminology is problematic when it comes to moving the agreement forward. Those differences are seen in SARA’s 2014 caribou recovery strategy and the provincial governments mountain caribou recovery implementation plan. Tomm said there are differences in how the two governments define major components such as habitat and non-disturbance.

“The federal and provincial government have a very complex problem,’ said Tomm. “There are some fundamental issues around definitions.”

Despite this, Tomm says he sees the federal and provincial governments working together and making progress, albeit slow. Part of the problem, he said, is that SARA was written for a certain purpose. Now that it’s being used the issues are starting to come out. Still, the slow process is creating a growing frustration among public, user groups, and industry including heliskiing and forestry.

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Stakeholder groups express concern over input process; initial focus on Central Group herd.

British Columbia Snowmobile Federation executive director Donegal Wilson said currently stakeholders are not listed as partners, meaning they are unable to provide input to the agreement. A public and stakeholder comment period on the draft agreement ended in mid-January.

Wilson describes the targets in the draft agreement as aggressive and questions why there isn’t a focus on herds that are successful.

“Why are we being reactive rather than proactive?” said Wilson. “The focus should be on the herds with the highest chance of recovery.”

In its comment submission, The BC Council of Forest Industries said the agreement between the federal and provincial governments is step in the right direction, but stressed the need for striking a balance between the interests and values of all parties, including stakeholders, involved in activities in critical caribou habitat.

Tomm said it’s likely stakeholder input is being held off until the two governments iron out the wrinkles in the draft

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Mountain Caribou rut. New federal government involvement in the issue of declining Southern Mountain Caribou herds is causing concern for stakeholders. Photo: David Moskowitz SARA agreement.

“Stakeholder input isn’t happening yet, but I think that’s coming,” said Tomm.

For Wilson even more concerning than the lack of stakeholder input is the federal government’s choice to initially focus on the Central Herd Group.

Donegal said money for the study of caribou in the Central Group herd came through a mining application and this is why that region was picked, despite caribou land-management activities in other areas of the province. Petryshen also expressed concern over the choice to have the initial group in an area where a mine received approval.

In December, the federal government gave approval for the Murray River

Mining Project, run by HD Mining International, near Tumbler Ridge. A 2016 Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency report determined the project would likely cause significant adverse effects on the caribou population, and that the project, combined with other activities in the area, would undermine the survival and recovery of the Quinette local population unit of the Central Herd Group.

The future of caribou recovery in Revelstoke remains unknown It’s too soon to know how the joint agreement on caribou conservation will impact activities in Revelstoke. Both for-

estry and recreational/tourism activities utilize areas in Southern Mountain Caribou habitat. In an update on its maternal penning project, Revelstoke Caribou Rearing in the Wild notes the Columbia North subpopulation, which is part of the Revelstoke-Shuswap caribou recovery planning unit, has been in decline since the 1990s. The largest subpopulation in the Revelstoke-Shuswap area of the Columbia North subpopulation dropped from more than 200 caribou in the 1990s to only 147 as of 2017.

A large portion of caribou recovery remains focused on the winter months, particularly around winter tourism and recreation activities, which often take place near critical caribou habitat. The

Revelstoke Snowmobile Club manages the Frisby Ridge closure under the provincial Mountain Caribou Recovery Implementation Plan and also provides education and outreach on Southern Mountain Caribou to snowmobilers.

Wilson said there is a need to shift focus from winter to summer, stating the majority of the mortalities take place in summer and there is no plan in place for that.

Tomm points to a difference between public recreation and tourism activities, noting tourism businesses under a tenure with an approved management plan have legal requirements for behaviour and operation. In contrast, public recreation has little say over the behaviour of individual users who may use roads logging to access areas that may be in caribou habitat.

Petryshen said, while it’s not a popular opinion, there is a need to get rid of roads and provide funding towards recovery of that habitat.

“When you eliminate roads, [you] get rid of access by humans,” he said.

Logging access roads in the Revelstoke area could potentially be impacted depending on the outcomes of the joint agreement. Ritchie said it’s likely the agreement will remove some areas from the timber harvest land base, but was unable to say what that could mean for Revelstoke’s forestry sector. The likely need for more careful planning moving forward could add additional costs.

Ritchie said an example of this would be building roads away from caribou habitat.

For now, the caribou conservation joint agreement remains focused on the Central Group herd and it is unknown when the initiative will make its way to Revelstoke.

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The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club celebrates its 50th Anniversary How has the club developed since its formation five decades ago?

By Laura Hodge The sixties — a decade which brought us plenty of technological advancements, such as the first human moon landing, the conception of the audio cassette and the invention of the computer mouse. This decade saw many significant developments in snowmobile technology too, with engines becoming much lighter, smaller and less easy to blow out than in previous years. It was also in this decade that the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club was founded.

The club was created in 1968 with Terry Fleming appointed as the club’s first president and Don Gillespie as the first vice-president. The club was formed as a place to unite those who share a love of snowmobiling, as well as to promote the sport to the wider community.

Snowmobiling was — and still is — a popular way of allowing people to access the backcountry, be it for sledding, or for recreational skiing and snowboarding. Before the formation of Revelstoke Mountain Resort, families often took their snowmobiles out into the mountains to find terrain that was suitable for skiing. Around this time, oval racing also began to increase in popularity, with snowmobilers racing on ovalshaped tracks to see who could cross the finish line first.

By the early seventies, the Revelstoke 14

Snowmobile Club had won the bid to bring the B.C. snowmobile racing championships to Revelstoke — one of the largest racing events in British Columbia. This prompted the building of a new snowmobile racing track especially for the event — a mammoth task, which enlisted a number of volunteers to help shovel and shape huge amounts of snow.

All of this hard work paid off and the vent was deemed a success, with a total of ninety-eight trophies being given out to the winners.

Talking to some of the club’s original members, they reminisced about the various events held by the club over the years. The club began as a very family-focused affair, with members bringing along their young children to events, which included snowmobile races, demolition derbies and local parades. Family members were quick to pitch in to help see the smooth-running of all events organized by the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club, often volunteering to help cook and serve food for the many attendees.

Snowmobiling still runs in the veins for some of the clubs family members, with their children and grandchildren also sharing a passion for the sport. In more recent years, as the sport has evolved, the club has seen snowmobiling become a less family-focused affair. In an effort to keep the sport open to the younger

generation, the club holds annual Youth Safety Days, encouraging the younger generation to get a safe introduction to the sport of snowmobiling.

With the increase in popularity of snowmobiling, the club has seen a significant increase in its number of members. This, however, has not affected the sense of community, with many lifelong bonds having being formed over a shared love of snowmobiling. Some of these friendships even span oceans, with snowmobilers from all over the world being brought together through the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club. It’s not uncommon for club members to spot a good few familiar faces at the various snow shows held around the country.

Since its formation fifty years ago, the club has being a big part of the Revelstoke community, putting on various fundraisers and events to raise money for local charities, such as the local food bank and the Queen Victoria Hospital Helipad Project. The growth of the club has seen it employ a number of new staff, who continue to develop ideas for fundraisers, events and ways to put back into the local community. These innovative new projects have contributed immensely to the club, with a number of new events having been created, such as Avalanche Awareness Days, the annual Youth Day, the annual ladies ride, the Snoworama Drag Races and Snowmo-

bile Patrol.

One especially important aspect of the club’s development has been the integration of the Avalanche Awareness Days.

As sledding technology has developed, snowmobilers are now able to delve further into the backcountry than they would have been able to fifty years ago.

This comes with some risks, as it takes sledders right into much riskier terrain.

To teach sledders more about understanding the terrain they are accessing, the club frequently teams up with Avalanche Canada to put on regular Avalanche Awareness days.

In addition to the creation of these new events, the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club have also taken on a number of new projects, which have allowed them to expand their terrain. The completion of a new Welcome Centre in 2016 provides a place for snowmobilers to meet, learn more about the terrain on offer and to receive important information on safety and protecting the local environment.

The Welcome Centre is also home to two groomers, which are used to groom the club’s trails on Boulder Mountain and Frisby Ridge.

Over the past fifty years the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club has achieved many significant milestones, helping to promote the sport of snowmobiling, bringing a number of great events to Revelstoke and contributing to the local

FEATURE Snowmobile technology has changed dramatically over the past 50 years, and with it so has the culture. In the early days, races, family rides and group events were the focus of the culture. It took teamwork to punch a trail up logging roads to access riding areas because the lower-powered sleds would bog down. Today, high-powered sleds make short work of the deepest powder, allowing small groups to range free in the alpine, seeking out untouched powder. These photos from the ‘60s and ‘70s highlight the club nature of the sport in the early years. Photos: Revelstoke Snowmobile Club.

community. Here’s to the next fifty years — we look forward to seeing what future projects and technological advances the coming years will bring.

March 2018 will see the fiftieth anniversary celebrations kick-off, starting with an anniversary banquet and dance on Friday, March 23, to which past presidents will be in attendance. There will also be a fiftieth anniversary ride on Boulder Mountain and Frisby Ridge on Sunday, March 25, finishing off with a BBQ at the Greeting Centre. For more information on these events, visit the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club website. http://revelstokesnowmobileclub.com

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Same store, new faces: Universal Footwear to continue top-quality service under new ownership.

By Louise Stanway Current owners of Universal Footwear, Malcolm and Debbie Bott, will soon be hanging their boots up to dry as they pass their business on down the family.

Their son Jordan Bott promises “the same quality of service, just a different face,” as he and his wife Chandra step up to take over Revelstoke’s go-to footwear store.

The family-owned and operated business has been supplying locals with quality footwear and services for close to 40 years. The store boasts a wide selection of best-selling brands such as Blundstones, Birkenstocks, Muck Boots, Timberland and more.

As well as product variety, the store also offers an in-house repair service.

Malcolm explains: “Our repair business mainly focuses on gluing, stitching and

stretching. We also repair and rebuild Birkenstocks, whether it is re-sealing cork or replacing the whole foot-bed.”

According to Malcolm, one unanimous value at Universal Footwear, which transcends the generations of ownership. “Our first priority is always our customers and their need.” No matter the issue, the team promise to try and fix the problem “even if it’s just a quick polish up!”

Jordan and Malcolm both share the same ideals when it comes to providing excellent service. With the steady growth and availability of online shopping, the pair feel that stores must go the extra mile to keep up with the competition.

“You can’t fit online,” Jordan explains.

“We are a true professional service here. There is a whole interview process

From left: Malcolm, Debbie, Jordan, August and Chandra at Universal Footwear.

Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer that happens first. What do you need these shoes for? How often do you wear them?” The importance of remembering names, faces and details is key to both generations of owners too. “Word of mouth is still an undeniably valuable tool within the industry,” says Malcolm.

Moving forward, as Jordan and Chandra take the reins, they hope that their years of experience and expertise will continue to drive business. After all, this isn’t Jordan’s first rodeo – he’s been in and out of the industry since he could just about walk. “Since I was a baby I was attending buying shows with my parents. I’ve been involved in this store since I was literally five years old. Now our son August has already attended

two shows this past month.”

Now returning to his roots, Jordan is hoping that the recent move back to Revelstoke and the business will allow his family a good ‘foothold’ in the community, as well as enabling new possibilities and direction for the store.

As much as it is difficult to take the step back after many years, Malcolm believes that the transition will be a good thing: “Jordan and Chandra are coming in with younger blood and a fresh vision – I think the store and the community will benefit from it.”

Step in to Universal Footwear at 7-555 Alpine Mall, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0, and keep an eye on their journey on Instagram at @universalfootwear.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Rocky Mountain Railroad docu-series showcases local railroaders

By Melissa Jameson It took some time before Revelstoke Canadian Pacific Rail crews got used to having camera crews around. The crews were filmed as part of Discovery Canada’s latest docu-series, Rocky Mountain Railroad, which showcases the daily challenges of keeping passenger and freight trains rolling through the icy mountain wilderness during the winter months. CP Rail Road Master Chad Deschamps said crews found the first week of filming awkward and made doing their jobs challenging.

“The positiveness though, they worked extra safe and they always made sure the camera crews were not at risk as they would include the camera crews in on their job briefings,” said Deschamps.

Prior to filming, Discovery Canada met with Deschamps and CP Director of Track Charles Girard to discuss site locations. They included the trip from Field to Revelstoke while crews worked on snow and avalanche issues, and the trip from Revelstoke to Kamloops covering high water, rockslides and washouts during spring runoff. As filming went on, Deschamps said most of the local maintenance of way workers from Revelstoke were filmed, as well as some engineers and conductors.

The eight-part series not only showcases the challenges, but also provides a glimpse into the culture of being a railway worker. Railway crews put in long hours, working away from home in all types of weather. Deschamps said it’s the men and women who put in long hours who are the backbone of CP Rail. He

in two other departments, but said engineering has always interested him.

Growing up, Deschamps watched his dad working for CP Rail and decided that was the job he wanted. He even had a chance to work alongside his father before he retired. Deschamps is currently Road Master in Revelstoke, where it is his and his assistants’ job to ensure the tracks from Ross Peak to Sicamous are patrolled on a daily basis to make sure they are safe for operations.

Episodes of Rocky Mountain Railroad airs on Discovery Canada March 5, but

Revelstoke CP Rail crews got to attend a private viewing of the series. CP Rail spokesperson Jeremy Berry helped to arrange a premiere of the series at Roxy Theatre for employees and family this past January.

“After seeing the episode they choose for the premiere, we all felt the series hit home, and the representation was very descriptive and accurate of our daily challenges and regular work we perform daily for safe operations of trains,” said Deschamps.

CP Rail Road Master Chad Deschamps is featured in Discovery Canada’s Rocky Mountain Railroad.

Photo: contributed said he hopes viewers watching will see what it takes to get just one train across Canada. A clip from the trailer for the series shows Deschamps telling a crew member. “If you get injured, I have to live with that for the rest of my life.” He said crews mentor one another to make sure they work safe.

“When the work crews have worked together for so long, it’s more like a family because they spend so much time together and they take safety serious,” he said.

Deschamps would know. He is on his 26th year with CP. He started off in the engineering department and worked

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17

FEATURED ARTIST

Welcome to Bambi Land

Claudia Bambi and the real Turbo Bambi

By Sarah j Spurr That feeling when sunshine breaks between storm cycles and sizzles with its brightness over your trembling eyelids.

Out of the woodworks all the happy little colours prance by, lighting up the world again with their shooting high beams.

Your squinting face melts into a cheesy smile. Delicious, vitamin feelings sink in.

It’s all hot laps for breakfast and “Sunshine, lollipops and rainbows everywhere” up in your earbuds.

This is Bambi Land, a world animated from the inside out by visual artist, graphic designer and illustrator Claudia Bambi.

You may know her more officially as Turbo Bambi — a mythical creature who rocks tube socks and is fueled by maple syrup and poutine. She describes her art as “influenced by the flamboyant Pop Art movement where overly happy creatures meet some of her favourite pop culture icons.” Curious about how she came to

be, I met up with Claudia at her workspace in the Mountain CoLab (a cushy lair to nurture design productivity).

Turbo Bambi performance at the Air Guitar contest. Quebec city, 2006.

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When was Turbo Bambi born? How did she get here?

Long story short, in 2006, two friends who I studied graphic design with and I decided to enter an air guitar contest and named our air band Turbo Bambi. Being graphic designers, we made ourselves a logo and printed T-shirts for our friends to wear at our show. We ended up winning with a rendition of Le Tigre’s Deceptacon — with no guitar in it — well it had a keytar. T-shirt sales skyrocketed after our victory and we randomly got invited to participate in an iPod battle.

We won the first battle so we made it to the next round, and the next, and so on ... until we got to the final battle up on a

stage in downtown Quebec City during the Carnaval de Quebec and ended up winning against two local DJs. The next day, our faces were on the front page of the paper and people started calling us the Bambis. A few weeks later, I got a call from the mountains so I moved out west — bringing only my boardbag and my new nickname. It was such a fun and memorable experience that I wanted to keep the band name alive forever and decided to name my graphic design company Turbo Bambi. The end.

How did your career find Revelstoke?

The love of snowboarding is what initially brought me to the mountains. My first stop was in Whistler about a decade ago, where I slowly started building a clientele for Turbo Bambi Design. Throughout the years, I accumulated enough work

to sustain myself as a full-time freelancer which also meant that I could work from anywhere with a wifi connection. As my passion for snowboarding shifted from riding park to riding champagne powder, Revelstoke seemed like the best place to be! I knew there was amazing snow here, but I didn’t know how tight-knit the community was, which makes me appreciate this place even more. Everyday, I catch myself thinking about how stoked I am to be here.

I spy yummy food, kitties, music and brains. What’s inspiring you?

Everything! Words, colours, landscapes, cuteness, pop art ... but I also like black and white, hip-hop and skulls. I have a bipolar aesthetic: it’s cute or badass. My most favorite colour of all time is seafoam (aqua). I see it in all my favorite places: the ocean, glacial lakes and I also grew up in a seafoam coloured room. Anything that goes well with seafoam is part of my favorite colours!

Your work oozes energy and a sense of work ethic. Can you share any tips for ambitious freelancers or creative entrepreneurs reading this right now?

Being a freelancer requires a lot of discipline and time management skills. As awesome as it sounds to work from home

Recent highlights or cool places your work has ended up: Actually, I got a lot of great feedback from the Jacobson Ford ads and the Canada 150 cover I did for the Mountaineer! I’ve had a few random requests from people seeing my work in public places.

For example, a movie producer from LA commissioned me a piece after he saw my art in the Alexander Gastown pub.

Sometimes I’ll do work for people I’ve never met but they’ve found me through Instagram. It blows my mind to see how easy it is to connect with people with mutual interests on social media these days. It feels like possibilities are endless!

FEATURED ARTIST

“Bambi Land” extends beyond her graphic design brand. She speaks to a playful lifestyle, a sense of humour and personal love for colour, kawaii, music, retro, food and an affection for helping things look a bit more shiny. Off the digital, she is passionate about breathing life into creations she can touch — exploring fine art applications including oil blended portraits, acrylic on canvas or wood and using available materials as they present themselves. If you are looking to flaunt one of her most popular designs, she contributes to Society6, an online shopping platform that brings consumers and artists together by offering a wide range of customized products. Each purchase is printed to order, ships internationally and pays the artist directly.

Last Fall she stepped out with a three-dimensional installation for the downtown premiere of Luna, Festival of Nocturnal Art and Wonder. The idea was adapted to fit the Explorers Society Hotel lobby. ”The Drifters” were linear painted driftwood sculptures floating above plush hand-sewn river rocks. The piece was inspired by the smooth curves of mysterious drift wood shapes found beached along the Columbia River. From this she mobilized a collection of wide eyed ghostly characters you could wear around on your back. This combination of Bambi style with objects shaped freely by a river, gave us insight into some fresh harmonies at play and added to the overall success of an event where out-ofthe-box thinking was encouraged. She contributes work regularly to fundraise for the Kovach Park skatepark and showcases paintings in exhibitions like the recent Anything Goes silent auction at the Revelstoke Art Gallery.

in the comfort of your PJs, I prefer to work from the Mountain CoLab because I’m more productive when I wear pants and, also, I strongly believe that human contact and daylight is essential. Also, a great tip to all my fellow perfectionists out there: perfection is the enemy of productivity. That’s easier said than done. (I’m writing this as I’m re-reading this for the fourth time to perfect it).

Do you have any mentors or artists whose work motivates you to create?

I really like Gary Baseman for his weird, cute and creepy creatures. I have a soft spot for pro-skater Ed Templeton and his Toy Machine graphics. I recently discovered Killer Acid on Instagram and really connect with his colourful style.

“I’m more productive when I wear pants.”

a toy dino design contest here”... Endless possibilities for collaboration in this town lurk, waiting for your high beams around every corner.

Website: www.turbobambi.com Instagram: @turbobambi_design Facebook: www.facebook.com/turbobambi/ Shop: society6.com/turbobambi

Need something? Ask Bambi: Illustration, Logo design, Branding, Packaging, Signage, Digital Art, Custom Paintings — I personally recommend the conversation. As we leave the CoLab, downstairs Claudia picks up a plastic dinosaur from the window at neighbouring Dose Cafe and I catch her mind switch into Bambi mode. “You know they should really have 19

Modalities: Athletic Therapist Kerri Dunsmore

By Revelstoke Mountaineer Staff

who gets pain, discomfort or injured when they go walking outside, playing with the kids, skiing, playing hockey, soccer, bike, backcountry adventuring, etc. Athletic Therapy is not only limited to sports and recreational athletes. Industrial athletes are eligible for Athletic Therapy too: mill or forestry workers, firefighters, police, and teachers to name a few. There are also the sedentary worker, which is becoming a huge problem in society lately with everything being on the computer and smart phone. If you get pain, Athletic Therapy can help you.

Revelstoke is a young town and has lots of new families. “Mommy posture” is a common posture dysfunction that gives a lot of new moms discomfort from nurturing their new child or children.

This is the first installment of our ongoing Modalities series, which will explore the broad variety of healing options available in Revelstoke. Whether you’re recovering from injury, or just looking to get the most out of your mountain lifestyle experience, we’ll introduce you to health practitioners who can help you get after it.

Athletic Therapist Kerri Dunsmore What kind of clients do Athletic Therapists serve?

If you move, I can treat you. ATs help active people with the rehabilitation of both chronic and acute musculoskeletal conditions. I bring balance back to your body to reduce and prevent the chances of injury or re-injury. Chronic injuries come from muscle imbalances/compensations or posture — you look like what you do. For example: skiers. In season, their quads and hip flexors get tight because those are the two main muscles you use skiing, and you end up walking around town hunched over from your hips – you’re walking like your ski!

Acute injuries such a ligament sprains and muscle tears can be a by-product of a chronic injury you have or it can be traumatic (like a big fall on the mountain). Having a full understanding of

Revelstoke Athletic Therapist Kerri Dunsmore. Photo: Matthew Timmins your injury and a guided hands-on and exercise based treatment can really help you get back to your sport faster and pain free.

What’s the profile of a typical client in a mountain town client?

Revelstoke is a typical mountain town most people are super active, even if they think they are not – we are a different breed! A typical client is anyone

What are some of the hands-on treatments you provide?

I provide a very hands-on assessment and treatment! My assessments include muscle testing and feeling for the neural connections and strength of muscles. I also feel for muscle and fascial tensions, scar tissue/adhesions, ligament and joint capsule integrity and joint mobility. My hands-on assessment helps me guide the type of treatment I provide. Some of the hands-on treatment techniques you may experience in a treatment include: soft tissue release (STR), active STR, joint mobilizations, fascial release, joint traction, trigger point release and some massage techniques. I also provide full CranioSacral treatments, but I tend to

take pieces of the technique and apply it into my treatment. Craniosacral is great for post concussion and stress relief!

There are a few tools that I use to help me with some techniques: the Heskiers myofascial scraping tool, therapeutic and myofascial cupping (silicon and pump cups), mobility band, k-taping, athletic taping, joint bracing and a traction belt.

What are some common health complaints that Athletic Therapists are effective at treating?

-Acute injuries from sports, activity, work, slips and falls that include: ligament sprains, muscle strains, pains, torn ligaments (ACL, MCL), dislocations, etc.

-Pre or Post operation rehabilitation for any ligament, tendon or fracture repair -Chronic and overuse injuries and conditions that include: wrist or Achilles tendonitis, shoulder impingements, carpel tunnel, low back pain, sciatica, shin splints, tech-neck, etc.

-Concussion assessment, management and rehabilitation -Posture, movement, mobility and biomechanical screening -Muscle imbalances and fascial restrictions -Over all well-being, body tune-ups and preventative treatments (from old injuries reoccurring)

Be Active. Stay Active.

HANDS ON TREATMENT OF SPORTS INJURIES

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250-946-6000

www.kdathletictherapy.ca kdathletictherapy@gmail.com 414 1st St. W, Revelstoke (in Balu)

20

Tiny food critics: How to set the stage

By Cori Sorowka, CHN So you’re raising a baby human. Shaping a life for the future. Their life depends on you. But, what do you feed them?

Are they getting enough good stuff?

What’s that mark on their face? Was that there yesterday? Many questions come up for new parents and it can be exhausting. Jo Gawler, mother of 19 month old Lily and host of the Mommy & Me show on Stoke FM, reminds new moms to be gentle to yourself and not worry so much about if you’re doing it “right.”

It’s impossible to know what “right” is.

Ultimately, it’s what feels “right” to you.

Digest the information and do what you want with it, the choice is yours.

Your baby’s first foods initiate the path for their life-long eating habits.

Hot out of the oven (0-6 months) Breastmilk is a magical substance that adjusts to your baby’s needs and there’s not a manufactured formula in the world that can replicate its properties.

It’s convenient, free, AND can help restore mom’s body back to normal, inside and out. Breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months will create optimal gut microflora, aiding nutrient digestion, vitamin production and immune development. If breastfeeding is a challenge,

you’re not alone, but try to stick with it.

If it isn’t a viable option, use a fortified baby formula. Talk with your doctor and research brands to find one that’s right for you.

Runny mush (Starting at 4-6 months) If you aren’t fluent in babble, there are signs that show your baby is ready for solid foods: •They sit up by themselves •Show interest in solid foods •Their tongue thrust reflex has disappeared (baby function that prevents foreign objects in the mouth before digestive systems are ready) Start with 1-2 tablespoons of simple foods (carrots, bananas, avocados). Try homemade! If you’re not a cook, your baby could become your best food critic since they don’t have much to compare your creations with yet!

Mush to chunky mush (7-9 months) Turn on the creativity and put together impossible sounding combos that may turn out to be favourites. Introducing the allergen foods early (6-12 months) can help prevent food allergies and sensitivities later in life. Try them but watch for reactions. Common allergens: •Eggs •Milk (keep an eye out for congestive issues, if these occur, try eliminating to

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Looking to satisfy the mini Gordon Ramsay in your kitchen? We’ve got tips! see if problems improve) •Peanuts and tree nuts •Wheat •Fish and shellfish •Soy Allergies and intolerances have similar symptoms that are rarely subtle and normally happen within minutes after eating (but can take hours).

Chunkier mush (9-12 months) Experiment with flavours and textures and find what works. Your baby’s face will tell you if they like it or not, or if it ends up on the walls, that’s also it sign it didn’t pass the test. Try foods multiple times though as sometimes it takes a few tries for acceptance.

Suggested combos: Spaghetti squash with nutmeg, turmeric cauliflower, zucchini with lentils and cumin, curried broccoli and chicken, peaches with spinach and mint, the possibilities are endless!

Finger chunks (12+ months) After 1 year, children’s rate of growth slows down and it may seem like they aren’t eating as much, but this is usually fine. Balancing nutrients over a week and not at each meal can help keep things less stressful.

DIY baby food Homemade is more nutritious than store-bought, which is processed under high temperatures and loses precious nutrients.

Summed up, making it yourself involves mostly steaming or roasting veggies and fruits until tender, cooking some meats or other proteins, choosing some herbs and spices for palate maturing, then throwing it all into a

blender contraption with some water for desired consistency. You don’t even have to fully chop the vegetables or fruit before cooking, just peel and/or de-pit before blending. Revelstoke’s year-round farmer’s market has excellent baby food ingredients.

Other healthy eating hints: • Stick to flavours of whole foods and use spices and herbs in small quantities such as cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, basil, mint, even mild green chilies • Whatever you’re making for your dinner can usually be slightly adjusted and thrown in the blender for baby dinner too • Wait until 8-10 months before introducing gas producing foods (onions, beans, cruciferous vegetables) • Store excess in the refrigerator or freezer (ice cube or silicon muffin trays are great for freezing individual portions). Jo Gawler also recommends the reusable food pouches (found at Pharmasave) • Engage your kids in the kitchen, strap them in while you whip up some food, have them alongside you in their play kitchen, or give them kid-friendly prep jobs • Be mindful of your child’s gut bacteria colony from an early age, explore the great outdoors, let them play in dirt, get their face licked by the dog and limit antibiotics to only necessary use Kids are sponges and your actions and views help them develop their own habits. Set the foundation towards a healthy path for your child. If what you’re doing makes you feel good and keeps you smiling, chances are it’ll keep your kids smiling too.

21

FOOD & DRINK

New, healthy plant-powered cafe The Green Moustache hitting its stride

By Imogen Whale The Green Moustache in Revelstoke has settled into the groove. The cafe is co-owned by Karine and Edward Wright, who relocated from Whistler and brought the Green Moustache franchise with them. Since they opened their doors, the wholesome vegan offerings have been well received by the community.

“We’re really encouraged by the support,” Karine explains. “The response from the community has been outstanding.”

The first vegan and gluten-free eatery in Revelstoke, Wright has enjoyed breaking down the ‘vegan’ barrier to show people that plant based meals can be filling and yummy. “We are super proud to bring the notion of a plantbased menu rooted in health to Revelstoke,” Wright says. “There is something on the menu for everyone.”

Wright has talked to many customers

who suffer from allergies or have Celiac disease. “These people are so happy to be able to eat out with peace of mind.

They know our kitchen is completely dairy and gluten free,” Wright notes.

“People are starting to understand the value in our menu items by learning that, without compromise, we are 100 percent organic and make everything from scratch in-house, including various nut milks.”

So what are the current community favourites? “The waffles have been hands down the most popular breakfast item,” Wrights says. “We’ve just launched the Quinoa Porridge Bowl, and we are hoping it becomes a popular family favourite. For lunch, a lot of people have dared to try out Kitchari, without knowing what it was, and most have come back for more.”

Desserts have been very popular, with the no cheese cheesecake being such a hot commodity the cafe can barely keep

up with the demand.

Aside from healthy food, the cafe also utilizes a zero waste concept for ‘to go’ items. “Everything is compostable,” Wrights says. “The straws, cutlery and ‘to go’ containers can be put into your compost and will break down in a couple weeks.”

The Green Moustache boasts a nifty app, allowing people to order ahead of time, pay with their phone, and earn points for future discounts and freebies.

The app can be downloaded from the Google Play or AppStore.

Local vegetarians, vegans and those with gluten and dairy dietary restrictions have proven to be thrilled about The Green Moustache. If you enjoy a healthy meal or snack, you’re sure to find something they like here.

Green Moustache owners Karine and Edward Wright. Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer

A taste With my toddler in tow I decided to give the Green Moustache a try.

I started with a health ‘shot.’ Karine recommended the ‘flu shot,’ a literal shot glass filled with a blend of apple cider vinegar, ginger, lemon and cayenne. It had a good bite, but was also pretty delicious. A friend tried the more intense ‘ginger shot,’ which caused a little eye watering!

A pressed juice followed. I tried out ‘Invigorating,’ a blend of green and black kale, romaine lettuce, red cabbage, bell pepper, Swiss chard and apple. Truthful-

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Try a horizontal tasting to compare and hone your tastes

By Heather Hood Sometimes it is fun to mix things up and try tasting wine through a different approach. This month the selection of wines are all Pinot Noirs. Two are from the Okanagan Valley and one is from California. These selections of wines could almost be considered a horizontal tasting. A horizontal tasting is wines that are from the same vintage but have been made from different producers; they will have at least one commonality such as varietal. The wines this month cannot be considered a true horizontal tasting because the Pinot Noirs were not all produced in the same year. Tasting multiple wines of the same varietal is a way to compare wine styles or to have an idea of what is currently available on the market.

The interesting comparison of these wines is the distinct difference between the cool climate of Canadian wines to the warm climate wine from the U.S. Although there are similar characteristics between all the wines, the way the aromas present themselves are noticeably different as well as the colour.

Therapy Pinot Noir 2016 Naramata, BC $31.00

The white, bright interior of The Green Moustache. Photo: Aaron Orlando ly, I was a little nervous it would taste like a blended salad, but it was delicious. My toddler drank half of it between playing at the kids’ corner, a small space outfitted with a toy kitchen and barn. Waffles followed, a dense concoction made of banana and buckwheat flour topped with caramel cashew cream, chia jam, dried figs and walnuts. It was both yummy and filling. My friend dug into the collard greens wrap, dunking the healthy raw vegan meal into a rich homemade sauce.

The verdict? We’ll be back for more!

The Green Moustache Revelstoke is located at 113 Second Street East, but actually

The Therapy vineyard and winery has branded itself as a place to be relaxing and a place to change your state of mind, — from their beautiful views and guest suites to their appreciation of Sigmund Freud. The Therapy Pinot Noir is the lightest of the three wines but really grows on you as the wine opens up. The fruit is subtle on the nose and is light and delicate on the mouth. There are flavours of violet, red fruit and oak. It has a nice finish with depth on the palate that lingers.

Cassini Cellars Pinot Noir 2015 $21.00

Try out vegan cheesecake at The Green Moustache. Photo: Aaron Orlando/ RM Magazine

Cassini is located on the highway south of the Oliver townsite and is built on land that used to be a lavender farm about a decade ago.

This Pinot Noir is a flavourful representation from the Okanagan Valley. It has a lot of fruit aromas on the nose with a hint of smoke. The mouth is full of red berries, vanilla, spice and has medium tannins. The finish is very similar to the flavours on the palate and has a rich finish of fruit and spice. This is a great wine at an excellent price point.

Meiomi Pinot Noir 2015 California $33.61 The comparison of the previous two cool climate wines versus this warm climate wine is very evident.

The colour is deeper and the aromas have a greater richness than the other two wines.

This wine is comprised of grapes from three different coastal areas of California.

The fruit on the nose is filled with red berries, which are ripe and jammy. The flavours on the palate are juicy strawberries, vanilla and spice with medium tannins.

The finish is bold and the flavours that linger are stewed berries and vanilla.

The Green Moustache is located at 113 Second Street East, on the Orton Avenue side of the intersection. Photo: Aaron Orlando/RM Magazine faces Orton Avenue between Second Street and Third Street, in between Revelution Fitness & Yoga and Everything Revelstoke. Phone: 250-837-6694. Find them online at www.greenmoustache.com/revelstoke/ or on Instagram at @greenmoustacherevelstoke

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HOME STYLE

Adaptive Homes: a solution for Revelstoke’s aging housing stock

By Emily Stone Whether you like it or not, our town is expanding at an unprecedented rate.

Many of our buildings are expiring teardowns, dilapidated and poorly insulated.

Less than ideal for comfortable living, let alone the carbon footprints of their inhabitants. However, an alternative method of building is on the rise in B.C. – and one pioneering local business is determined to lead the change to a more sustainable future, both in terms of the quality of buildings and the day-to-day lifestyles of residents.

Revelstoke local Jocoah Sorensen founded Adaptive Homes as a result of his passion for sustainable, human-focused construction. Working in the construction industry since the age of 15 and inspired by alternative building techniques such as Cob building and Earthship biotecture (construction of off-the-grid dwellings whose structures and internal systems use almost entirely natural resources), Jocoah has piloted the construction of a variety of energy efficient homes in town. For the past six years, he has developed and evolved a repertoire of sustainable construction techniques. Working alongside Stark Architecture, the company who designed the modular buildings for the Mackenzie Village, he is eager to begin creating some state-of-the-art adaptive modular homes in town.

So what is defined as an ‘Adaptive Home’? In short, many types of ‘eco homes’ exist, including the 100% energy-efficient and incredibly well insulated passive house — the standards for which Adaptive Designs have been applying as guidelines for their local projects.

For the construction of a fully adaptive home according to the company, there are seven Adaptive Principles: energy efficiency, harvesting of water, re-using waste water, off-the-grid renewable energy generation, off-site fabrication, situating the house at the optimum solar aspect for heating and cooling,

Above: Adaptive Homes principals Jocoah Sorensen (left) and Ashley Logan. Right: A concept design for an adaptive home design for Revelstoke designed collaboratively by Adaptive Homes and Stark Architecture. Adaptive homes are based on environmental principles such as energy efficiency, off-site fabrication, off-grid energy generation, and more. Image: Adaptive Homes and the ability to grow food using the recycled water. “The principles are really the backbone of the whole business,” Jocoah explains. “They allow us to have our own standards to ensure that we provide quality homes which will have a positive impact on our environment and community.”

These seven principles deliver the opportunity for the dweller to dramatically reduce their reliance on the carbon-intensive means of modern living.

Water wastage is dramatically reduced, there is zero reliance on fossil fuels, and the carbon footprint associated with imports of store-bought food is offset.

It is estimated that an adaptive home will cost you up to 90% less to run than a conventional one, so if your utility bill costs you $120 per month, that’s an enormous saving of almost $27,000 over

a 20-year period.

A people-orientated business that strives for quality over quantity, Adaptive Homes is undoubtedly client-focussed. “Adaptive Homes is just an expression of my passion for the craftsmanship of home building, and seeing the difference it can make in people’s lives,” Jocoah says. “A home is likely the biggest investment a client will ever make, so providing one is the perfect opportunity for us to showcase exactly what a home can be.” Having expressed these values in previous projects throughout town, Jocoah looks forward to applying them to the fully adaptive homes of the future. It’s difficult to go wrong when the very purpose of his designs involve helping people live clean and cut down on living costs.

Jocoah believes it’s time we started thinking outside the box in terms of construction. “We are in a housing crisis and an affordability crisis. How can we keep going along?” He feels the innovative, sustainable and low cost dwellings

that Adaptive Homes envision will ideal for Revelstoke. And the ball is rolling: the first proto-house, built under the adaptive principles, should be on the market this summer.

What else might the future hold? Plans are also underway for a cooperative four-plex housing project, built according to the principles. Adaptive Homes are looking for people interested in cooperative housing to be involved in the project, so if this is you then get in touch with them using the details below.

Going forward, Adaptive Homes would like to provide Indigenous populations with sustainable housing – providing both job opportunities, and an overhaul on community-orientated living. We could also see a modular retrofit option for home extensions in the near future.

Facebook: Adaptive Homes Instagram: @adaptivehomes Email: adaptivedesignandbuild@ gmail.com

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LIVING THE DREAM

26

How two Revelstoke women brought their vision to life

HOME STYLE

Together, Sarah Erikson and Heidi Hopkins epitomize hard work and fresh talent. Erikson’s finished bed and breakfast down south is a reflection of their combined talents and drive.

By Imogen Whale, photos by Keri Knapp Sarah Erikson Sarah Erikson lived in Revelstoke before and loved it, so two years ago when a relationship that had taken her to the other side of the world hit the rocks, it felt right to move back.

“I just thought, ‘I’m going to do it, I’m going to try and live the dream,’ so I bought the property to live it without him,” Erikson laughs. Truthfully, she had been in town visiting friends when the property came up for sale and it felt like fate. She started putting offers in the day she toured the property.

Though young, it wasn’t Erikson’s first foray into home ownership or renovation. While the project, an unfinished

home that had sat empty for over a year, was larger than any she had tackled before, Erikson was up for the challenge.

A farmer with experience in organic growing, Erikson has turned the threeacre homestead into her full-time job where she runs a small-scale organic farm and pickling company called Alpine Brine. The land boasts veggie gardens and wildflowers with the large shop transformed into a greenhouse for starting seedlings. Erikson is low key but confident as she and her new rescue dog showcase the beautiful home.

It’s newly finished, lovely and welcoming, but Erikson doesn’t live there.

At the front of the property is a modest

“We like to listen, we like to collaborate and we love to create spaces that tell a story”

Residential & Commercial Interior Design Consulting

modular home newly covered in cedar shakes that Erikson hand painted in an effort to cut down building costs. “That’s home,” Erikson says.

The larger house is a bed and breakfast, an allowable usage for properties in the Agricultural Land Reserve.

“I wanted people to have a boutique place to stay without being millionaires,” she says. Her clients have so far been families, mostly hailing from Alberta. For $1,300 a night, there are five bedrooms, four bathrooms and space to sleep a dozen people. “Generally, it’s been booked by two or three families going on holiday together,” Erikson explains.

Sarah Erikson (left) and Heidi Hopkins. Photo: Keri Knapp Heidi Hopkins Heidi Hopkins, owner of her own interior design company, HOPKINS Interior Design, has been helping homeowners beautify their spaces both in and out of town. A graduate of the Ryerson University interior design program, Hopkins is currently working towards accreditation at through the RCC Institute of Technology for architectural freedom, allowing her to structurally design a living space

RONA Glacier Building Supplies Revelstoke was presented with an award on February 15th, 2018 from the Building Supply Industry Association of BC for being the Regional Finalist in the Building Centre (Contract Yard) category for the Kootenay (Southeastern) region.

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We at RONA Glacier Building Supplies are very proud to receive this award and as always a big thank you to our staff for their hard work and great customer service.

info@hopkinsinteriordesign.com 778.679.9214 www.hopkinsinterior.design

250-837-6144 | 96 Cartier Street, Revelstoke.

27

HOME STYLE

up to 3,000 square feet. Hopkins is on track to graduate in 2019.

Prior to interior design, Hopkins worked in Revelstoke as a part of the government wildfire fighting crew. “I loved it,” she says, “but I wanted to move into a career with a more creative outlet.” Creativity isn’t something new to Heidi, who grew up constantly analyzing and mentally redesigning the spaces around her.

Hopkins first started chatting to Erikson about design while they were

playing recreational soccer in town.

“Sarah kept telling me to swing by to help her with the aesthetic, but I didn’t really take it seriously until she wrote her number on a paper at the end of a practice and put it in my hands,” Hopkins explains.

The team “We went for a modern Canadian home; one that is welcoming for a family,” Hopkins says. This was achieved by

Thank you to Sarah Erikson for the trust that was given to Lortap Architectural Millwork to provide the Millwork at your beautiful home.

We appreciate your business and wish you all the very best for the future.

www.lortap.com|250.837.6336 | 96 Cartier Street, Revelstoke

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choosing modern furniture and lighting, Canadian artwork and local woodworked structures with live edges.

“Ninety percent of the art is Canadian, some from Revelstoke artists, and the furniture is Canadian made,” Hopkins details. “We got away with using multiple art mediums by keeping the framing simple. The white walls offer a gallery feel, and each room has a distinct personality.”

The kitchen and dining areas house beautiful wood tables and cabinets.

The main living area has a haphazard but organized art wall, modern custom metal firewood rack, and stone fireplace. The family room features painted images of man and bear wrestling while the TV and cozy seating fill the space. “I enjoyed the imagery of the wrestling nature and man,” Hopkins explains. “As I imagine in a family room with children there will be plenty of horseplay.”

One of the most stunning pieces resulting from the collaboration is the floating staircase. Made from wood and glass to ensure the space is full of light and open, the stairs were created by Erikson, Hopkins and LAM. “Lortap really brought to life many of our finishing idea,” Erikson enthuses, “I maintain that Kyle and Paul at Lortap are the reason I’m still sane. They have been professional, realistic and just amazing to work with.”

Each piece of wood furniture is made

from Take To Heart Specialty Wood Products and the lumber was handpicked by Erikson and built by Lortap Architectural Millwork (LAM). She was instrumental in designing the main bathroom vanity. Also featuring in the main floor bathroom are a plunger and toilet brush with ski pole handles. “Why not?” Erikson laughs.

For all its beauty process hasn’t been without growing pains.

“It’s difficult to take over a project half finished — something that was someone else’s dream,” Erikson says. “I would have made structural changes if I had started the project. And there has been hiccup after hiccup.”

These hiccups include a basement flood and the fact the building was empty and unfinished for some time before Erikson purchased it. Tracking down people who previously worked on the home and trying to jog their memories has been difficult. “Every day was like trying to solve a puzzle,” Erikson says.

While there have been difficulties, there have also been a lot of rewards and ultimately, optimism. Hopkins and Erikson have worked hard, and the home is a reflection of that. Having borne the brunt of the project, Erikson has had enough of building and renovating for the near future, Hopkins is starting design work on a home in Big White. Are Erikson and Hopkins living the dream?

The two laugh and Erikson smiles and looks around.

“Each day it gets a little bit closer.”

HOME STYLE

The Erikson home features wide, white open spaces, nods to local forest heritage with extensive use specially-milled lumber and liveedge creations. Photos: Keri Knapp/ Revelstoke Mountaineer

Jordan Cochrane Construction Ltd. congratulates Sarah Erikson on her beautiful new home and are proud to have provided the construction management for this project.

Contact JCC for your next residential home build.

(250) 200-0532 - REVELSTOKE, BC 29

Call or text 250.814.9929

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MODERN LIVING. MOUNTAIN LIFEST YLE. Introducing Mackenzie Village, a landmark new community in Revelstoke, BC just minutes from Revelstoke Mountain Resort and downtown Revelstoke. Everything you need to spend your time where it matters the most: outside.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST W W W.M AC K E N Z I E V I L L AG E.C A

NOT AN OFFER FOR SALE

We’re Open!

Every day from 8am-5pm, come see us for freshly made 100% organic and nutrient-dense meals, beverages and desserts!

CORNER OF 2ND ST. EAST & ORTON AVE. - NEXT TO REVELUTION FITNESS & YOGA

Order ahead, save time with our App and earn reward points!