Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine March 2023 issue

FOREIGN BUYERS STILL WELCOME IN REVELSTOKE

By Tara Sutherland

March: the time of year we typically begin to see the transition from winter to spring. Here in Revelstoke this means you may shift from winter conditions at the top of the ski hill to spring-like slush near the base. Maybe you’re switching over to spring activities, biking the CP hill trails or washing your snow (an activity long time locals are no doubt familiar with).

In the real estate world, many changes were announced at the end of 2022 that will impact both buyers and sellers. Some of these changes include the mandatory buyers’ recession period, a loosening of strata bylaws, and the topic of this month’s article: the foreign buyer ban.

In essence, the concept of the foreign buyers ban is the “Non-Canadians Act”, which would prevent non-Canadians from buying residential property in Canada for two years, beginning January 1, 2023. It took the larger part of 2022 to find out how--and if-- this would apply to Revelstoke. On December 21, 2022 information was released that the prohibition applied to “residential property located in a census metropolitan area or a census agglomeration.” What does that mean for Revelstoke? A census metropolitan area is formed by one or more adjacent municipalities centered on a population centre (known as the core). It must have a total population of at least 100,000 of which 50,000 or more must live in the core or must have a core population of at least 10,000. The Census Profile issued by the Canada Revenue Agency in 2021 gives Revelstoke a population of only 8,275 people.

Phew! Let’s all take a big sigh after reading that last paragraph! OK, but what does this mean for Revelstoke and the landscape of our local real estate economy? Generally speaking, at a local level, not a lot of investment purchases are based on a sheer necessity to “park” money in Canada. Most buyers in Revelstoke are attracted to our market as they also want to enjoy all the community has to offer. It’s possible the changes – along with higher baseline

prices in Whistler and other resort communities – could drive additional buyers to Revelstoke, since the foreign buyers ban tax isn’t required here as it is in other parts of the province.

And as you have no doubt chatted with an individual in Revelstoke who has an accent, it would be remiss to not include what a Non-Canadian is and who is exempt. Non-Canadians are defined as those who are NOT Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, or persons registered as Indigenous Persons of Canada. Exceptions include non-residents married to a citizen, Diplomats and members of international organizations who are living in Canada, Refugees and those with temporary resident status, workers who have worked and filed tax returns in Canada for three out of the four years before buying property and international students who have spent most of the previous five years in the country (they can buy property up to $500,000).

It can be argued that in recent years the forces driving prices were actually low interest rates and a lack of inventory. As spring approaches, it will be interesting to see how this ban plays out for local prices and if the foreign buyers ban does what the government intended: housing Canadians and making housing more affordable.

Photo credit: Carter Berton

Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is a free monthly publication featuring the best of Revelstoke outdoor life, food, style, visitor experiences, lifestyles, entertainment, home style and healthy living.

We are an independent, locally owned publication dedicated to showcasing our amazing mountain town and the great people who create the stoke.

Each issue we distribute 2,000 copies to public venues across Revelstoke, including hotel rooms, shops, restaurants, cafes, community centres — everywhere people meet.

For all inquiries, please contact us at info@revelstokemountaineer.com

For Revelstoke daily news online, please see our sister publication www.revelstokemountaineer.com

· 250 814 8710 info@revelstokemountaineer.com

606 Railway Avenue. Revelstoke, B.C. P.O. BOX 112 · V0E 2S0

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Aaron Orlando aaron@revelstokemountaineer.com

EDITOR

Aaron Orlando aaron@revelstokemountaineer.com

STAFF JOURNALISTS

Nora Hughes nora@revelstokemountaineer.com

EDITORIAL DESIGN/ADVERTISING DESIGN

Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com

WEBSITE Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Melissa Jameson, Jill Macdonald

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Chad Chomlack, Nora Hughes, Pearl Pratico, Maja Swannie Jacob, Hywel Williams

FRESH STARTS

Revelstoke will experience two big new events this March as it transitions from winter to the spring skiing season.

The Natural Selection Tour is a major international snowboarding production that will attract top talent to a Revy backcountry course. The competition has big production and reach and features a number of events and parties associated with it, including some last-minute details TBA. Be sure to check out our preview this issue, and also the Revelstoke Mountaineer events calendar at www.revelstokemountianeer. com for details on parties and associated events.

Bottoms up to the Revelstoke Beer Festival, kicking off on March 31 at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. The festival will be hosed at the midmountain loge and will feature a wide selection of breweries, distilleries, meaderies, and other ready-to-drink bevvies. The event also features entertainment and after parties at resort venues.

The homegrown Encore Youth Arts Festival will debut its first offering featuring art from Revelstoke’s youth crowd. The organizers took inspiration from the LUNA Arts Fest and will be

a one-day offering in its first year. Check out the story this issue for the who’s who and details on the event.

Finally, your skier friend will deny it, but spring will be in the air in March, meaning it’s time to start sprouting your seeds and hatching your plans for the summer gardening season. This issue, we met up with local beekeepers to find out about the growing hobby and business, and also offer budget friendly gardening tips to help you get healthy food on the table for less.

Life’s short and spring skiing days are even shorter, so ski ‘em if you got ‘em and see you around town this month.

—Aaron Orlando, BA, MJ; Creative Director, Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine, revelstokemountaineer.com

COVER PHOTO: Dustin Craven dropping in his Natural Selection DUEL with Werni Stock. The Natural Selection Tour comes to Revelstoke in March, bringing top names in pro snowboarding to town. See page 26 for our preview of the event, and page 28 for a preview feature with Revelstoke-based competitor Dustin Craven. Photo credit: Chad Chomlack / Natural Selection

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CONTENTS

6 LOCAL SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

Revelstoke businesses are localizing the subscription service trend, offering flowers, books, soaps and more on a monthly basis. Find out more about what's driving the trend.

8 EVENTS CALENDAR

Find out what's happening around Revelstoke in March by checking out our events calendar. Don't forget to add your community event online at www.revelstokemountaineer.com

12 NEWS BRIEFS

Our collection of news and happenings from Revelstoke over the past month.

14

PREPARING FOR POLLINATORS

Don't mention it to your skier friends, but spring is almost here. In this buzzy story, we check in on the pollinator scene in Revelstoke to find out tips for those interested in the beekeeping lifestyle.

16

BUDGET GARDENING TIPS

If you don't watch it, gardening can lead to some expensive carrots. In this garden preview story, we seek out expert advice on how to garden on a budget, including starting now to get your seeds ready.

18

ENCORE YOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL

Check out news from the past month

The brand new Encore Youth Arts Festival adds to Revelstoke's already busy arts calendar with its inaugural festival this March. We spoke with the organizer and caught up with preparations in this story.

22

BUSINESS BEAT: SWEET TREATS

Artisinal chocolate and hand-made vegan doughnuts are two of the items on the menu at Revelstoke eateries featured in the March edition of our business beat column.

24

ARTS & OUTDOORS BRIEFS

Our arts and outdoors briefs for March look forward to happenings on the arts calendar.

26

NATURAL SELECTION TOUR

Top snowboarders will converge on Revelstoke in March for the Natural Selection Tour, a top shelf competition taking place at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Find out the who, what, where and when here.

28

NATURAL SELECTION TOUR PROFILE

In this profile, Revelstoke-based snowboarder Dustin Craven shares his perspective on the NST event touching down in Revelstoke in March.

REVELSTOKE’S UNIQUE SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

THREE REVELSTOKE BUSINESSES CAPITALIZE ON A UNIQUE TREND.

By Nora Hughes.

Subscription services are a unique marketing strategy businesses employ as a product distribution method. The wonderful wide web offers thousands of subscription boxes that recurringly deliver niche products right to your door. The trend has taken off. Seriously, you can find anything from selfcare packages to dog toys.

It’s no secret why it’s successful: everyone loves presents. The thrill of opening the delivery, revealing the mystery inside. The downside: subscription boxes can be expensive, especially with added shipping costs. The good news is you can treat yourself to subscriptions here in Revelstoke. Subscription services in Revelstoke are not only unique but also accommodating, customizable and making an impact on our community.

Here are three local subscription services using this global trend to provide niche products that give consumers the opportunity to support local in the same fun fashion:

Fable Book Parlour: Book subscription

Whether you are looking for a gift that keeps on giving or just want to take the worry out of choosing your next read, Fable's book subscriptions have you covered. The service launched in 2022 with only a few subscribers, but Fable staff say the number of participants has quickly grown.

“Our target subscriber is anyone who knows their (or a loved one's) reading preferences but is looking for inspiration and variety,” says Fable’s co-owner and manager, Stacy Batchelor. “There are so many options out there — it can be overwhelming! There is something great about having the pressure taken off choosing your next read and perhaps diving into something that you might not have reached for but end up loving.”

The subscription program has multiple options that accommodate a wide variety of readers, including separate pricing for kids and young adults and adults. Fable Book Parlour offers six and twelve-month subscriptions for new books or a mix of new and used books at a reduced rate.

Fable’s Book Parlour subscription program also personalizes your monthly read and caters to your literary preferences.

“I think what sets us apart from other online book subscription services is that we are here and eager for feedback,” says Stacy. “Receive a book in your subscription that you've already read? No problem, we'll exchange it for something different. In the mood for a particular genre this month? Let us know, and we can accommodate. We do a survey to assess the recipient's reading tastes and curate the selection based on that. Each of our employees has slightly different literary preferences, and between us, we span the genres and amass a multitude of recommendations to pull from.”

Fable staff are happy to accommodate, love books and truly enjoy the opportunity to hand-pick titles for other readers. The subscription service offers free delivery within Revelstoke. For more information, visit fablebookparlour.com/book-subscriptions.

Left Field Floral: Floral subscription

Left Field Floral in Revelstoke offers weekly, bi-weekly and monthly floral subscription services. The subscription consists of fresh floral arrangements, seasonal dried floral arrangements or bulk flowers and greenery for the recipient to DIY.

The vase, container or other miscellaneous vessel is totally customizable and can be purchased, rented or provided by the subscription holder.

Fable Book Parlour’s book subscription program has flexible pricing for different ages and options for new and used books. Photo: contributed by Fable.

Left Field Floral’s flower subscription program will add a monthly pop of colour to your life. Photo: Nora Hughes

Subscribers can pick up their floral subscription at Left Field, or delivery can be arranged within Revelstoke.

Left Field Floral owner and florist Izzy Lynch says she’s been working with local businesses to provide a pop of colour during the winter months with this subscription service.

Subscriptions can be fully customized based on the subscriber's required size, cadence, colour palette and budget. For more information on the floral subscription service, visit leftfieldfloral.ca/floral-subscriptions.

Forage & Fill: Zero waste refillery subscription

On February 1, 2023, zero-waste sustainability enthusiast and business entrepreneur Jenise Lamoureux took over Revelstoke’s Eco Boutique, Forage and Fill ownership. With her new business venture, Jenise has big plans to expand the refillery program to provide a subscription service to help eliminate single plastics in Revelstoke’s tourism industry accommodation sector.

The service provides an option for accommodation providers as small as single-room Airbnbs, to lodges and hotels to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics using Forage and Fill’s refill subscription program for all guest consumables such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, dish and hand soaps, laundry detergent and cleaning products.

Subscribers can order products to accommodate busy tourism seasons, and when products are low, Forage arranges pickup, refill and delivery. The subscription service will also offer custom branding for locations to personalize their products.

“I saw a gap in the market for refill services. Forage and Fill offers storefront services to the general public, but it was simple to think that those services could be expanded to help other individuals and businesses operating in the tourism sector of Revelstoke,” says Jenise. “Not only that but a lot of travellers are looking for environmentally friendly accommodations when they travel, so this offers a solution to that growing demand.”

Jenise says Forage and Fill’s expansion beyond personal refills is helping to meet growing demand for more environmentally friendly accommodation with natural, effective products that are normally single-use. She’s thrilled to open this subscription opportunity in Revelstoke and is currently building a client list for the service’s kick-off later this year. To find out more, check out @forage.and.fill on Instagram or Forageandfill.ca.

TOURISM TALKS

HOUSING OUR RESIDENTS

In the lead up to the November municipal election, housing dominated the conversation. In Tourism Revelstoke’s recent resident survey, housing was identified as a top priority by many respondents. A shortage of housing that has been on the rise for several years was only exacerbated by the pandemic. The effects of this are readily apparent: well paying jobs remain unfilled because qualified people can’t find suitable housing, people leave town to pursue more affordable living, and renters live in the shadow of housing insecurity. In order to preserve community and character, it’s essential that we combat housing unaffordability and lack of availability.

Many mountain towns have common problems in this respect: non-resident ownership, skyrocketing housing prices, geographic limitations to new development, and high numbers of seasonal or low wage employees. In order to find solutions for Revelstoke, it’s helpful to explore some of the ideas generated in other mountain communities.

Aspen: Established in the 1970s, the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority (“APCHA”), was one of the first of its kind. When a deed restricted property comes up for sale in Aspen, a lottery is held for prospective buyers. The weighted lottery gives priority to residents with a four year work history. For rental housing, APCHA has a mix of properties, some that it manages and some that are privately owned and managed. The basic requirements for accessing these properties are that a renter works full time within the county, that they occupy the unit as their primary residence, and that they own no other residential property within the area.

Whistler: The Whistler Housing Authority (“WHA”) was created in 1997. It maintains and augments an inventory of employee restricted housing for local income owners and retirees. Like APCHA, the WHA offers models for both rental and home ownership. Whistler’s program imposes resale prices that are tied to inflation, so while this creates more affordable purchase rates, it also limits the resale value of the home.

Vail: 2016 tax records showed that 66% of Vail homes were unoccupied, and 90% of new homes were purchased by non-residents. In order to combat this, Vail introduced deed restrictions. Vail pays homeowners 15-20% of the home’s value in order to include a covenant on title that the home will only be sold to residents employed in local businesses. Vail also introduced a program in which the county can support locals making purchases in exchange for a deed restriction on the home.

Banff: Banff is in a somewhat unique position as all town land is leased on a long term basis from Banff National Park,which allows for restrictions to be put in place as a condition of the lease. Banff has created a requirement that people who live in Banff also work locally (with allowances for retirees).

Crested Butte: Crested Butte introduced requirements for Resident-Occupied Affordable Housing (ROAH) directly into its municipal code. Any new development (residential or non-residential) must comply with requirements to create ROAH units in compliance with a formula based on square footage and whether the development is commercial or residential. In some cases, a payment in lieu may be made to the Town Council instead of creating a unit; however, the code is written such that the creation of new units is the priority and developers can’t simply buy their way out of the obligation.

By borrowing from other communities and learning from their successes and challenges, we can work collectively to address the housing crisis in Revelstoke. While many local organizations, like the Revelstoke Community Housing Society, are making an impact with limited resources, a more cohesive community effort across public and private sectors will lead to real progress in housing our residents.

To read previous Tourism Talks columns and to learn about destination management in Revelstoke, head to destinationrevelstoke.com.

Forage and Fill is expanding its refillery program with the Sustainable & Circular Accommodation Program, or S.C.A.P., offering zero-waste subscription refill services to Revelstoke’s tourism accommodation sector.

Photo: Nora Hughes

MARCH 2023 CALENDAR

SENIORS STRAWBERRY TEA

MARCH EVENTS

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

REVELSTOKE WINTER MARKET

Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Avenue, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Shop for local food, produce, arts, crafts and more at Revelstoke’s indoor winter market

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

NATURAL SELECTION

TOUR

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Road, times TBD

Two dozen of the world’s top snowboarders from throughout the sport compete in dynamic, natural venues, returns with three stages and two live events in 2023. Visit revelstokemountainresort.com for more info.

Revelstoke Seniors Hall (at the back of the Community Centre), 600 Campbell Avenue, 1—3p.m. Come and see what an old-fashioned tea is like, with fancy sandwiches, tea and coffee, and Strawberry Shortcake for dessert! Cost will be $10 per person, $5 per child, or $20 per family. Tables of 4. Everyone is welcome!

CRISIS ON PLANET Z

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Avenue, 3–5 p.m. Part of Arts Revelstoke’s REVY. Live winter series, Crisis on Planet Z! is an environmental, science fiction play for young audiences. Tickets $5. Visit artsrevelstoke.com for more information.

MONDAY, MARCH 6

LOCAL FOOD INITIATIVE’S BINGO NIGHT

The Regent, 112 First Street East, 8–10p.m.

The LFI will be hosting Bingo on Mondays at 8 p.m. every other week. There will be great prizes, and tons of fun, and all proceeds will be going towards the LFI and its summer programming.

TUESDAY, MARCH 7

FULL MOON SNOWSHOE TOUR

The Revelstoke Campground, 2411 KOA Road, 7–9p.m. Come and experience the full moon with a guided snowshoe tour through the magical forest! After the walk, we’ll warm up by the fire with some hot drinks & snacks by our beautiful yurt at the Revelstoke Campground. $30 (tour only) – $50 (includes snowshoe rental). To register visit info@flexpeditions.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

ENCORE YOUTH ART FESTIVAL

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Avenue, 6–8 p.m.

A youth-led art initiative aimed at bringing our community together through artistic expression. Featuring music inspired 2-D and 3-D art and movement. Live dance performances on the hour. Enjoy music and art in the lobby throughout the evening. Admission by donation of a non-perishable food item for the foodbank. Follow @encoreartsrevelstoke for more info.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT JUNIOR REGIONAL 2*

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Road, 10–3 p.m. The IFSA Junior Freeski Regional event provides an opportunity for youth between the ages of 7 and 18 to develop and showcase their skiing skills in

a fun and supportive environment. Come out and cheer on the athletes from the spectator zone, at the top of The Ripper Chair.

HA HA HAREM

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Avenue, 7:30–9 p.m. Part of Arts Revelstoke’s REVY. Live winter series Standup comedian Jane Stanton headlines Ha Ha Harem featuring comics Amber Harper Young and MC Sharon Mahoney.  Fill your cup with laughter at this hilarious event. Tickets $25. Visit artsrevelstoke.com for more information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

STORIES OF THE FOREST: EXHIBIT AND AUTHOR TALK

Okanagan Regional Library, Revelstoke Branch, 605 Campbell Avenue. 3:30–5p.m. Join Revelstoke-based writer Laura Stovel and friends for a talk and exhibit on her book Stories of the Forest, which features insights from 20 Indigenous knowledge keepers and local forest experts.

FRIDAY, MARCH 17

REVELSTOKE WINTER MARKET

Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Avenue, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Shop for local food, produce, arts, crafts and more at Revelstoke’s indoor winter market

SATURDAY, MARCH 18

KING AND QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAIN

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Road, 10a.m.–3p.m. Full of good vibes, massive sends, and friendly competition, this annual event featuring a fusion of free-ride and freestyle is great whether you are participating, sidelining or just

Natural Selection. Photo: Hywel Williams/Revelstoke Mountain Resort

copping a look as you cruise up the Stoke Chair. Cost to enter is $100 and participants must be 19 or older. Revelstokemountainresort.com for more info.

SUNDAY, MARCH 19

LOCALS DAY

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Road, 8:30 a.m.-3:30p.m. Join us for Locals Day and help support the Revelstoke Community Foundation. Proof of residency required. Visit revelstokemountainresort.com for more info.

MADDIE STORVOLD

Fable Book Parlour, 102-311 First Street W, 6:30–9:30 p.m.

Maddie Storvold is quickly finding her sure-footing at the intersection of singer-songwriter and psych-folk, offering a catalogue of songs saturated with candor and depth, a lighthearted vulnerability, and a splash of piss and vinegar. Tickets $20 available at fablebookparlour. com/events.

MONDAY, MARCH 20

LOCAL FOOD INITIATIVE’S BINGO NIGHT

The Regent, 112 First Street East, 8–10p.m.

The LFI will be hosting Bingo on Mondays at 8 PM every other week.

There will be great prizes, and tons of fun, and all proceeds will be going towards the LFI and its summer programming.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22

CALL JANE

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Avenue, 7:30– 9 p.m.

Part of Arts Revelstoke’s Movies in the Mountains series. Chicago, 1968. When suburban housewife Joy’s pregnancy leads to a life-threatening heart condition, she must navigate an all-male medical establishment

unwilling to terminate her pregnancy in order to save her life. With Elizabeth Banks, Sigourney Weaver, Wunmi Mosaku. Tickets $15. Visit artsrevelstoke. com for more info. This film is rated R.

VISIT REVELSTOKEMOUNTAINEER.COM/EVENTS TO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT FOR FREE. WE INCLUDE A SELECTION OF THOSE EVENTS HERE IN OUR MONTHLY PRINT CALENDAR.

Add your event.

Monster Theatre – Crisis on Planet Z.

Photo: Mark Halliday press photo

King and Queen of the Mountain. Photo: Hywel Williams/Revelstoke Mountain Resort

THURSDAY, MARCH 23

LA CAFAMORE

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Avenue, 7: 30–9 p.m.

Part of Arts Revelstoke’s REVY.

Live winter series. La Cafamore is a classical music chamber group based in Rossland. This concert will be an exploration of the string quartets of siblings Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn. Tickets $25. Visit artsrevelstoke. com for more information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

EVENING RAIL JAM SERIES

Turtle Creek at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Road, 4:30–7:30p.m.

Show us your best tricks and take home some amazing prizes! Jams will be held on our custom rail park, built on the lower Last Spike under the Turtle Creek lights. Competitors must be 19 or older. ID will be checked. Helmets mandatory. Revelstokemountainresort. com for more info.

MONDAY, MARCH 27

DEATH CAFÉ

Dose Coffee, 101 Second Street E, 7–9p.m.

At a Death Cafe people drink tea, eat cake and discuss death. Our aim is to increase awareness of death to help people make the most of their (finite) lives.

FRIDAY, MARCH 31

REVELSTOKE WINTER MARKET

Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Avenue, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Shop for local food, produce, arts, crafts and more at Revelstoke’s indoor winter market

REVELSTOKE CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Road, 5–9p.m. Taste mountain culture at the Revy Beer Festival. Join us as we celebrate the end of winter in style with a beer festival on the mountain in one of the world’s most beautiful resort towns. Tickets $30. Visit albertabeerfestivals.com for more info.

SHANE KOYCZCAN

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Avenue, 7: 30–9 p.m. Part of Arts Revelstoke’s REVY. Live winter series. Lauded for his sold-out live performances,

Canadian spoken word poet Shane Koyczan has carved out his own artistic path and taken his work beyond the conventional. Tickets $25. Visit artsrevelstoke.com for more information.

Rail Jam at RMR. Photo: Hywel Williams/Revelstoke Mountain Resort Maddie. Photo: courtesy Maddie Storvold La Cafamore.

Spoken word artist Shane Koyczan peforms at RPAC lon Mar. 31. Photo: handout

REVELSTOKE CAO EVAN PARLIAMENT TRANSITIONS INTO PERMANENT POSITION

By Nora Hughes

Council and staff welcome Evan Parliament as the City’s new permanent Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Parliament was appointed as CAO on an interim basis in August 2022 and has overseen the transition of the new city council members during that time. On February 10, 2023, city staff announced his transition to a permanent position.

A CAO acts as a liaison between city council members and staff.

Parliament has over 30 years of municipal experience, says city staff in a press release, including negotiating partnerships, team building and leadership, community engagement, strategic planning, governance and staff mentoring.

He comes to the City of Revelstoke, from Sicamous B.C. but has served in a number of B.C. and Alberta municipalities.

“So pleased to be invited to work with the new [c]ouncil and the good folks of Revelstoke. My primary focus is for [c]ity [h]all to match the vibrancy, the energy, and the positive culture that makes up this world class destination,” said Parliament in the release. “I’m so impressed at the youthfulness and the variety of outdoor experiences that Revelstoke showcases. Local government is in the people business and all of [c]ity staff look forward to serving you to make Revelstoke the best it can be.”

During a special council meeting on February 9, 2023, an employment agreement for Parliament was ratified.

“Council is very happy that Mr. Parliament has accepted our offer to continue on as our CAO. We are excited to be able to keep working with him and delighted that we can provide stability within our management team,” said Mayor Gary Sulz. “In my opinion his years of experience and desire to assist Revelstoke in his capacity as CAO is outstanding. Staff are pleased that we can continue to attend to the needs of Revelstoke with Evan at the helm.”

Over the snowy weekend of February 18 and 19, 2023, the Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club welcomed 400 skiers from across the province for the Teck BC Cup race. The skiers battled constant snowfall that made conditions a challenge for waxing and trail conditions.

BC Cup races are part of the Nordic club’s regular season of racing. There are three BC Cup events a year, and Teck was the title sponsor for this event. Participant ages range from four to 100 at these races, and they usually garner the most attendants out of any other cross-country races in B.C.

The event was a huge success, thanks to the over sixty local Revelstoke Nordic club volunteers and the club's sponsors: Teck Resources, Flowt Bikes and Skis, Grizzly Auto, Mountain Goodness, Mount Begbie Brewery, Save on Foods, See Revelstoke, Skookum Bikes and Skis, Stoke Hotel, Woolsey Creek Bistro, and Cross-Country BC.

REVELSTOKE NORDIC SKI CLUB HOSTS TWO-DAY CROSS-COUNTRY SKI RACE

Story submitted by: The Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club

“As new parents to the Nordic race scene, we really enjoyed being part of the Teck BC Cup race. My sons, Rowan and Finn, equally enjoyed participating in races, playing in the snow, and meeting new friends from around the province. The Nordic community was incredibly welcoming and supportive, with a strong emphasis on fun and participation. The racers, from ages 5 to 85, were equally celebrated. We look forward to more events in the future!” noted RNSC parent Jen Wild.

The next race for RNSC racers Alexandra Luxmoore, Maeve MacLeod, and Ruby Serrouya is the Canada Winter Games in Prince Edward Island, being held at the end of February, and for many others in our ski community, it is the BC Championships at Telemark Nordic in Kelowna, at the beginning of March. Additionally, Revelstoke Nordic will send ten skiers to the National Championships in early March in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

New Revelstoke CAO Evan Parliament.

Photo: handout

Regan Miller finishing up her race in fine form.

Photo: Maja Swannie Jacob, Revelstoke Nordic

REVELSTOKE COUNCIL DENIES REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT ZONING AMENDMENT REQUEST

ZONING AMENDMENT WOULD HAVE ALLOWED THEM TO SHIFT THE DENSITY WITHIN DEVELOPMENT ZONES ON RESORT LANDS

By Nora Hughes

Revelstoke city council defeated zoning amendment bylaw No. 2346, proposed by Revelstoke Mountain Resort (RMR), that would have allowed them to shift the density of their approved 16,600-bed units within development zones on resort lands. Council members were divided, with two councillors and the mayor in favour of reading the amendment a second time and three councillors not in favour, denying the proposed amending bylaw.

Revelstoke city council’s regularly scheduled meeting on February 14, 2023, was prefaced by a special committee of the whole meeting, where RMR representatives Jason Kelder and Peter Nielsen gave a presentation to the council. In the presentation, the representatives detailed the resort’s immediate goals for future expansion, including their focus on building new lifts.

Nielsen stated in the presentation that to meet the increase in demand, they need the flexibility to build accommodations and shift density to maintain positive guest experience.

The bylaw first appeared before Revelstoke’s previous council in October, 2022 and would allow RMR to shift density in lands zoned CD 08 located to the south, east, and northeast of the Arrow Heights Neighbourhood, something city Lead Planning and Development Services staff Paul Simon says would enable the proponent better utilization of existing space.

Each development area is allocated a certain amount of density, including residential units and commercial space. RMR cannot currently shift density between development areas. However, according to Simon’s staff report, the amendment would allow up to 30% of the density from Area 1 to be reallocated, so long as no more than 15% is reallocated to any one development area.

Councillor Tim Palmer voiced concerns about not having enough information to make his decision. “I do not have enough information to make a good decision to go to the next step. I do not have that confidence.”

New condo owners cut the ribbon, celebrating the opening of their new complex at Mackenzie Village. The ceremony celebrated building one of phase two’s completion on Thursday, February 16. Unit owners could move into their new properties on February 18, 2023.

Building one is the first of four buildings constructed as part of phase two. Phase one saw the completion of seven buildings. Building one consists of 24 units, all of which are sold. Developer David Evans says they expect to see the subsequent building of phase two completed at the end of March or at the start of April.

All 120 units being built as part of phase two have been sold since last January, says Evans, and they are now pre-selling the next phases.

Phase two of the Mackenzie Village development has 17 new commercial spaces. Evans says there are a number of local businesses that are in the process of signing contracts to lease those spaces.

The ribbon for building one was cut in front of developers, city council members and roughly 200 construction workers, including both local and regional contractors. Many companies helping with the build are from out of town. Evans estimates the allowance for out-of-town workers is roughly $40,000 a day, which he says goes back into the local economy.

MACKENZIE VILLAGE OPENS BUILDING ONE OF PHASE TWO, NEW RESIDENTS MOVE IN

By Nora Hughes

Major local trades include H&J Ready Mix Concrete, Valley Black Top, Canyon Industrial, Jake & Jay Construction, Revelstoke Alarm, City Furniture, Kelly’s Bobcat, Battersby Plumbing, Hopkins Interior Design, Score Construction, Hive & Co., Revelstoke Pool and Spa, Revelstoke Crane and Rigging, Gutter Done Exteriors, Little Big Works, Artisan drywall, MX Construction, among others.

A ribbon cutting event in February at Mackenzie Village

PREPARING FOR POLLINATORS

WHETHER YOU’RE READY TO BELIEVE IT OR NOT, SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER. IT’S TIME TO START PREPARING. IN THIS Q&A WITH RON GLAVE FROM BEEKIND HONEY BEES INC., WE TALK ABOUT HOW REVELSTOKIANS CAN PREPARE FOR AND SUPPORT POLLINATORS IN THEIR GARDENING PRACTICES.

By Nora Hughes.

Ron Glave is the Chief Beekeeper at BeeKind Honey Bees in Revelstoke. He says that each spring, we have an opportunity to create diversified noninvasive habitats in support of pollinators and our local ecosystem. Any gardener can take advantage of this opportunity by sourcing appropriate seed, start, shrub, and tree options, instead of just going with the most attractive product packaging. In this question-and-answer piece, we explore

the many options and opportunities to make a lasting improvement on pollinator habitat in our community.

Revelstoke Mountaineer: Why is pollinator habitat important?

Ron Glave: Pollinator habitat is important for a number of reasons, both ecological and economical.

Ecologically, pollinators such as bees, butterflies, birds, and bats play a crucial role in pollinating flowers of plants. This process helps ensure the reproduction of many plants and is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Without pollinators, many plants would decline or even disappear, which would have a significant impact on the biodiversity of our planet.

Pollinators are essential for many crops that we rely on for food, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Without them, our food supply would be severely impacted.

The pollination services provided by bees and other insects are estimated to be worth billions of dollars annually in Canada. By providing habitat for pollinators, we can support the growth of industries such as agriculture and horticulture.

Pollinator habitat can help to build climate resilience to the impacts of climate change by maintaining ecosystem functions, such as pollination, that are essential to many plant species.

Pollinators are an important part of Canada's natural heritage and play a significant role in many Indigenous cultures. By providing habitat for pollinators, we can help to preserve these important cultural and educational values.

RM: What plants are ideal for pollinators, and what is the planting process?

“Ron Glave is a beekeeper and says that for a long time, the messaging around honey bees has been ‘save our bees.’ This messaging has evolved more towards ‘feed our bees.’”

Photo: Nora Hughes

“Preparing for pollinators includes planting various plants that bloom throughout the growing season, educating yourself on native species and asking for pollinator-friendly products and services.”

Photo: Ron Glave

R: A few examples of plants ideal for pollinators includes wildflowers such as lupines, fireweed, clover, dandelion, penstemons, and Indian paintbrush provide a great source of nectar and pollen for pollinators.

Shrubs such as snowberry, red-osier dogwood, and ocean spray are attractive to pollinators and also provide nesting sites for native bees.

Trees such as cottonwood, aspen, maple, and willow are excellent sources of pollen and nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Berries such as blackberries, raspberries, and huckleberries are attractive to pollinators and also provide food for birds and other wildlife.

And herbs such as mint, thyme, and oregano are great sources of nectar for pollinators and also provide food and shelter for beneficial insects.

It's also important to note that native plants are generally more beneficial to pollinators than nonnative plants, so it's a good idea to focus on planting native species whenever possible.

Additionally, it's important to provide a variety of plants that bloom at different times throughout the growing season, as this can help ensure that pollinators have a reliable source of food throughout the year.

The planting process for each will differ from species to species; however, it's a good general rule of thumb that the first-year plants sleep, the secondyear plants creep, and the third-year plants LEAP!

One of many great resources is the Selecting Plants for Pollinators, a planting guide for the Columbia Mountains and Highland Regions through the Pollinator Partnership.

RM: As a beekeeper, what effects can the plants in a region have on honeybees?

R: Plants in a region have a significant effect on honeybees and the honey they produce. Honeybees rely on nectar and pollen from flowers to survive and produce honey. Different plants produce nectar and pollen with different chemical compositions and flavours. This, in turn, affects the flavour profile of the honey that we enjoy based on the predominant floral source in the foraging area of our beehives.

The nectar from some plants, such as clover, produces light mild honey, while nectar from other plants can produce more golden or dark and robust honey. The type of plants in a region can influence the colour, aroma, and flavour of honey and can even change from one micro-region to another.

Additionally, some plants may be more attractive to bees than others, leading to differences in honey production. Bees are more likely to visit flowers that produce high quantities of nectar and pollen, and in turn, these plants can lead to increased honey production.

As a beekeeper, it's important to be aware of the plants in the surrounding area and available forage. This can help in managing our honeybees and producing unique, quality honey.

RM: Can you tell me about Bee City Revelstoke? What kind of resources does it provide for our community?

R: Bee City Revelstoke is a program that aims to promote pollinator conservation and education in Revelstoke. The program is part of a larger international initiative called Bee City Canada, which seeks to protect pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects that are essential for the reproduction of many plants and the health of our ecosystems.

Bee City Revelstoke works with local residents, businesses, schools, and other organizations to create pollinator-friendly habitats and promote awareness about the importance of pollinators. Some of the resources it provides for the community include:

Educational resources: Bee City Revelstoke provides information and educational resources about pollinators, their habitats, and the threats they face. This includes workshops, webinars, and educational materials for schools and community groups.

Pollinator garden resources: Bee City Revelstoke works with individuals, businesses, and organizations to create pollinator-friendly gardens and habitats. They offer resources and guidance on how to create and maintain these gardens.

Bee City Revelstoke hosts community events to raise awareness about pollinators and their importance. These events feature activities, workshops, and educational displays about pollinators. Another initiative includes the pollinator-friendly lawn signs program showing support for our local pollinators.

Bee City Revelstoke provides networking opportunities for individuals and organizations interested in pollinator conservation. This includes connecting local beekeepers, gardeners, and other pollinator advocates.

Bee City Revelstoke is actively interested in new members joining the group to discuss, plan,

and action pollinator habitat initiatives. Anyone interested can connect with the Bee City Revelstoke Chair, belizabeth@community-connections.ca

RM: What opportunities are there in Revelstoke to promote and foster pollinator habitat?

R: Some opportunities to promote and foster pollinator habitat in Revelstoke include: Planting pollinator-friendly plants. By planting native flowering plants, you can provide food for pollinators and create a habitat for them. Some good native species to plant in Revelstoke include bluebells, fireweed, yarrow, and goldenrod.

Creating pollinator gardens specifically designed to attract pollinators. These gardens should have a variety of flowering plants with different bloom times to provide food throughout the growing season. You can also provide nesting habitats for bees by including wood or bamboo nesting tubes. Request pollinator-friendly seeds, plants, shrubs, and trees from local garden supply centers. Request that pollinator-friendly habitats be included in landscape design projects from local landscaping contractors. Work towards re-wilding areas of development, matching or exceeding development disturbance to the local ecosystem.

Encourage natural areas in and around Revelstoke. Natural areas with diverse habitats and plant species provide important food and nesting sites for pollinators.

Educating the community about the importance of pollinators and the role they play in our ecosystem. By raising awareness and understanding, more people may be willing to take action to support pollinators.

Reducing pesticide use. Pesticides can be harmful to pollinators. Reduce pesticide use by using nontoxic pest management techniques or selecting pestresistant plant varieties.

Partner with local organizations such as Bee City Revelstoke, the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative, or the Revelstoke Bear Aware Society to promote pollinator habitat and educate the community.

Connect with additional Pollinator resources; KinSeed Ecologies (www.kinseed.ca), Elk Root Conservations Society (elkrootconservation. org), Xerces Society (www.xerces.org), Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (columbiashuswapinvasives.org).

By taking these actions, we can become a more pollinator-friendly community, supporting the health and biodiversity

local ecosystem.

of the

“Bee City Revelstoke " aims to promote pollinator conservation and education. They have many resources that can help gardeners prepare for pollinators.”

Photo: Nora Hughes

“At BeeKind Honey Bees, the hives collect pollen through pollen trapping using a wooden device below the hive. The bees enter through the entrance, pass through a series of screens, knocking off some of the pollen into a collection tray. Here you can see the array of pollen particles. The colours represent different pollen foraged from different plants.”

Photo: Ron Glave

BUDGET-FRIENDLY TIPS FOR REVELSTOKE GARDENS

& Larch about simple ways to minimize costs and maximize benefits in Revelstoke gardens. During Christine’s years of hands-on cultivating here, she has accumulated a wealth of valuable local information.

Plant selection

By

It’s difficult to put a price on gardening. Outdoor spaces provide us with sanctuary, serenity, food and the reward of manual labour. The benefits are plentiful. However, costs are rising and as we turn toward spring to refresh our senses, we will be faced with balancing excitement against the hard realities of expenditures. We also want to balance the time spent looking after our gardens with time spent simply enjoying them.

For many of us, gardening is a form of gambling. Sometimes it works, other times it doesn’t. Most often it’s a mixed result. Some wins and some losses, which is fine on the annual side of things but no one wants to end up fighting with their landscaping or resenting all the pruning and mowing.

We spoke with Christine Nielsen from Magpie

Choose plants that fit the microclimate of your yard. Consider sun exposure, water conditions and soil composition. Prepare the beds properly first –make sure they are free of weeds! This is one of the most common mistakes people make. Competition for nutrients, water and soil puts your new plants at a serious disadvantage and they risk being choked out.

Stick to the plants best suited to your outdoor space. Falling in love with the impossible will simply cost you money if your choices cannot flourish.

Size matters. Be mindful of the space you have to work within and select appropriately sized plants, shrubs and trees. They will fill in over time. Crowding prevents plants from thriving and ultimately results in a poor return on your investment.

Consider mass planting of single varieties for visual impact. When planted with complementary mass groupings, you establish a coherent look to your bed rather than a hodgepodge assembly of various singles. Consistency and boldness make a stronger statement. Mass plantings also suppress weeds. Open soil is an invitation to unwanted elements.

Don’t worry about the initial look of the bed.

Practice patience and let the plants fill out. In the case of perennials, mature plants can be divided down the road. Dividing also invigorates plants, promoting health.

Christine’s budget-friendly suggestion for Revelstoke spring gardens: Don’t be in a rush. Getting seeds going is not necessarily going to save you money or time. The rule of thumb for seeds is that the smaller the seed, the more technical and difficult they are to manage. Without the proper equipment, the results can be disappointing. In Revelstoke, we suffer from a lack of light and excess humidity. Once the soil has warmed, direct sowing is often the most successful. If you really can’t wait, break up the snow and remove mulches to let the sun touch the soil directly and hasten the warming process.

Reconstitute used potting soil

One way to cut costs and use materials already on hand is to empty containers from last year and repurpose that soil. In a large bin, break up the dried clumps, moisten them and allow the mixture to come to an easily workable texture. Add bags of composted manure to enrich the mix. Apply topically on established beds or use it for planting containers. This saves you from having to purchase large bales of peat or mixes.

The empty containers can be placed in the bottom of planters to take up volume and keep the containers lightweight while providing drainage and aeration at the bottom of the pot.

IT’S TIME TO GET TO WORK ON YOUR SEEDS: HERE’S OUR TIPS ON CREATING A GARDEN THAT SAVES YOU MONEY.

Jill Macdonald.

Even a small garden can add up to savings during the summer months.

Photo: Christine Nielsen

OUTDOORS

Be creative

Making use of on-hand materials is one of the simplest ways to save money. Trellises, for example, can be made from sticks found elsewhere in the yard or forest. Look in the garage for broken handles, leftover building materials and sporting equipment (skis and hockey sticks are popular in Revelstoke).

Interesting containers and statement items can be made from old toolboxes, teapots and garage sale finds.

Time consciousness

Where do you spend the most time? Christine suggests that being less concerned with a manicured, curated look frees up people’s approach to their outdoor spaces. Allowing a bit of wild in adds to our relaxation. Look for simple solutions. Fill in empty spaces with features that don’t require care – interesting wood, metal, stone and water features. These elements add to the look of your yard all year long.

Ornamental edibles

If space is a concern, choose plants that offer double duty. Not only are they pretty, but they also produce food. In our climate, good choices are blueberries, currants, Saskatoons, grapes and rhubarb.

Ornamental edibles can be mixed into perennial beds as well. If you live in Arrow Heights, consider subbing in ostrich ferns (fiddleheads) for hostas. Ferns add interest and deer don’t like them.

Parting wisdom from Christine

Have fun, experiment and don’t look for perfection. Plants are stronger than we think, don’t give up too early. And while giveaways might be tempting, however, sometimes they come with nasty surprises – the plant itself might be aggressive or it can be hiding weeds. Sometimes it’s safer to pass on the temptation of something free.

To be a gardener is an exercise in trial and error, creativity, learning and sharing. It’s a constant dance. Be prudent in your choices and patient with the process.

Above: A little sweat equity goes a long way to saving you money. Right: Fruits of your labour, including glorious cabbage.

Photos: Christine Nielsen

NEW FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS YOUTH ARTISTS

ENCORE YOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL TO SHOWCASE 2-D AND 3-D ARTS, MOVEMENT

By Melissa Jameson.

The diverse talents of local young artists are the focus of an upcoming youth-led celebration of music inspired 2-D and 3-D arts and movement.

The Encore Youth Arts Festival grew out of a project aimed at providing opportunities for youth to participate in workshops in various mediums led by Revelstoke artists.

“I’ve always had this dream of highlighting youth art in our community,” said Kenley Knock, co-owner and creative director of The Studio Dance & Wellness. “Knowing so many dancers in this community, a lot of dancers are also visual artists. We had one of our young dancers highlighted at LUNA this year. I thought why aren’t there more young artists in LUNA? So, we [Knock and Tanis Baer] started this project.”

Young artists were given the opportunity to take part in workshops to create a variety of projects ranging from carving, jewellery making, animation, and watercolour. Then, Baer came up with the idea of adding a musical element.

“She had all of the students who were participating pick lyrics, music, a poem, something that inspired them and that snowballed into these projects,” said Knock, who is also community dance connector with Arts Revelstoke.

That’s when Pearl Pratico got involved.

“I heard about this project and I look forward to LUNA every single year, it’s my favourite night because it highlights community and art and I think those are two super influential things in my life. There’s so many talented youth artists in town,” Pratico said.

A Grade 12 student at Revelstoke Secondary School, Pratico has taken on creative direction of Encore as part of her capstone project. A requirement for graduation, the BC Ministry of Education defines the capstone as “a

rigorous learning opportunity that allows [students] to reflect and share in personally meaningful ways as they demonstrate knowledge, competencies, and passions while integrating personal interests and strengths with preferred future possibilities.”

“Creative direction is something I’ve always wanted to do, and it’s really cool to have an idea, have a vision and be able to accomplish that all before I’m 18,” said Pratico.

There was one small problem, however. The original grant funding for the project had run out. So, Knock approached Daniel Bhattacharya, executive artistic director of Arts Revelstoke.

“He was like, absolutely we want to do this. So, through Arts Revelstoke and through community donations we’ve been able to make this happen, which is incredible.”

Pratico is also creating three dance pieces for the festival. One of those is a group piece that explores the African proverb “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.”

Pratico is hopeful the festival will become an annual event. “That’s why we’ve come up with the name Encore, because we want this to be continuous. That if I’m not working on this, that some other student will take this on and make this bigger and better.”

The Encore Youth Arts Festival takes place at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, March 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dance performances will take place in the theatre on the hour, and patrons can enjoy music and art in the lobby throughout the evening. Those planning to attend are asked to bring a non-perishable food or cash donation for the Community Connections Food Bank. Follow @encoreartsrevelstoke for more details.

Dancers on stage at The Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre rehearse “Go Solo” in preparation of Encore.” Photo: Pearl Pratico

Artistic Director and Choreographer Pearl Pratico works with students from Revelstoke Secondary School on a submission for Encore, a youth art festival in Revelstoke.”

Photo: Emily Hunt

WHY LIVE IN STOKEDLIVING?

Sustainable quality builds are at our forefront.

All homes are Step Code 5: Net Zero Energy Ready, Passive House Certified Windows and Doors, all-electric.

Highly efficient homes made for optimal living conditions

Built with carbon neutral walls, recycled materials to the highest sustainability codes

One of the closest neighbourhoods to Revelstoke Mountain Resort (1.5k)

Downtown Revelstoke is a short 5 minute drive away

SWEET TREATS: THE REVELSTOKE BUSINESS BEAT

A REVELSTOKE BAKER SPECIALIZING IN THE ART OF DELICIOUSNESS SERVES SATURDAY MORNING SWEETS, AND A CHOCOLATE MAKER WORKS WITH RAW INGREDIENTS TO TURN BEANS INTO BARS.

By Nora Hughes.

For the month of March, we bring you two businesses blessing our community with sweet treats: Moondilly Treats and RIVA Chocolate. When it comes to their delectable hand-crafted creations, RIVA and Moondilly products have something in common: they’re not made to satisfy the masses. Artisan goodies come out of these shops in carefully curated batches, using the finest flavours and fastidious care in ingredient selection.

Moondilly Treats

Revelstokians may recognize Josee Zimanyi from Moondilly Treats’ beginnings at the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative summer farmer’s market. Captivating crowds with her delicious handmade doughnuts, Josee opened Moondilly at 427 Second Street East in October 2022 to continue supplying the community with heavenly treats.

A little about Josee: this isn’t her first rodeo. She’s been a pastry chef for over 30 years, baking and cooking your day better. She was co-owner and founder of the Modern Bakeshop and Café. She’s fed hungry skiers, hikers, tree planters and everyone in between at remote backcountry lodges, private celebrations and high-end restaurants, and

spent time as a chef during two Olympics for the Canadian national cross-country skiing team. As she puts it, “a baker must bake.”

“I love baking and cooking, connecting with customers, and seeing joyful faces eating delicious baking,” she says. “I source the finest ingredients, organic, local and seasonal when possible. Moondilly specializes in combining tradition with innovation to produce exquisite flavour and strives to improve recipes by lowering sugar, adding whole grains and protein.”

Josee specializes in the art of delicious. Saturday mornings at Moondilly, customers can find her famous vegan doughnuts embellished with a thick layer of glossy frosting. Moondilly also stocks a healthy supply of other treats, such as artisan chocolate bars, cinnamon buns, cookies, homemade pop-tarts, Stoke Toast and more. Moondilly Treats is only open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Josee says running the business this way replicates the market vibe and keeps it special. For more information on Moondilly Treats’ menu, store hours, pop-up events and more, visit www.moondillytreats.com

Riva Chocolate

If you thought chocolate making was like something out of Willy Wonka, you probably haven’t heard of bean-to-bar chocolate making. Zuzana Chmielova is a bean-to-bar chocolate maker in Revelstoke. She works with raw ingredients to turn cocoa beans into chocolate bars, using the beans, cane sugar and nothing else.

A chocolatier and a chocolate maker are two entirely different jobs. A Chocolatier is a person who makes dipped, cream-filled, ganache, truffle confections, but a chocolate maker makes chocolate from scratch.

Zuzana started Riva Chocolate in 2021 following a trip to Mexico in 2019 to learn about the cocoa bean harvesting process. Theobroma cacao also called the cacao tree and the cocoa tree, is a small (6–12 metre tall) evergreen tree that produces seeds, aka cocoa beans, that are used to make chocolate.

Zuzana says the pre and post-harvesting process of the beans is highly complicated, and for this reason, the cocoa bean farming industry isn’t sustainable. That’s one of the reasons she was interested in making bean-to-bar chocolate, to honour the traditional farming process and to offer a sustainably sourced product.

Moondilly Treats has an ever-expanding menu of treats, including their famous vegan doughnuts, pastries, artisan chocolates and gluten-free and vegan treats.

Photo: Josee Zimanyi

Moondilly Treats is open Saturdays from 9-4 to replicate that special feeling of market morning and fresh doughnuts.

Photo: Josee Zimanyi

“My philosophy is about sustainability for the cocoa bean harvesting,” she says. “For me, the cocoa plant is like a goddess.”

Despite using only two ingredients, Riva chocolate bars come in various flavours. Zuzana describes the process of roasting cocoa beans, sourced sustainably from around the world, to develop unique, vibrant and perfected flavours.

First, she sorts the beans, husks them, and then sorts them again to remove the husks leaving only the nibs infused with the bean’s unique, rich, fragrant flavours. She makes her bars by roasting one kilogram of beans at a time. After roasting the beans to perfection, the beans are ground and mixed with cane sugar to create a traditional dark chocolate. Zuzana is meticulous regarding the chocolate’s texture and experiments to create a high-quality product.

Zuzana’s goals for Riva Chocolate include becoming a direct trader of her cocoa beans, expanding on the types of chocolates she makes and opening a tasting room. You can find her hand-made chocolate bars at markets around Revy, at health food store Mountain Goodness and Powder Rentals during the winter season, or at Rivachocolate.ca.

Zuzana Chmielova of Riva Chocolate is a bean-to-bar chocolate maker in Revelstoke.

Photo: Nora Hughes.

At Riva Chocolate, bars are made with only two ingredients: cocoa beans and cane sugar.

Photo: Nora Hughes

POET SHANE KOYCZAN ANCHORS BUSY MARCH AT RPAC

By Revelstoke Mountaineer staff

Arts Revelstoke hosts five events at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre in March, ranging from kid-oriented performances to classical chamber music.

On Mar. 4, Monster Theatre presents a young audience-oriented science fiction play, Crisis on Planet Z! Terraformers come to the realization that their way of life on Planet Z is unsustainable, so they must change their ways.

On Mar. 10, Jane Stanton, Amber Harper Young and MC Sharon Mahoney present comedy tour act Ha Ha Harem. This trio of funny ladies has appeared alongside famous comedians and fancy venues, so, Revelstoke, let's not bring their stock down. Pease, brush the sawdust off your mackinaws before you arrive, and remember: spit goes into the spittoons.

On Mar. 22, Movies in the Mountains presents Call Jane, presents the vignette of Joy, whose stable 1960s suburban life is upended by a pregnancy complication, hurling her into the culture wars embroiling the USA.

On Mar. 23, Rossland-based chamber music string quartet La Cafamore explores the music of Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn. The group features Kai Takeda on viola, Natasha Hall on violin, Maria Want on cello, and Carolyn Cameron on violin.

On Mar. 31, Canadian poet Shane Koyczan presents his spoken word show that explores the human experience. "Lauded for his sold-out live performances Koyczan has carved out his own artistic path and taken his work beyond the conventional," writes Arts Revelstoke.

The Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre is located at 1007 Vernon Avenue in the Revelstoke Secondary School building.

The Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre welcomes their new art gallery exhibition featuring work by art residency students from a unique program, two expressive artists living on Vancouver Island, a sculpture artist from New Denver and an interactive community project.

On March 9, the RVAC will host an opening celebration for the new exhibition which will be in the gallery until April 2. New for this opening event is a quiet viewing that will take place before the celebration. The viewing will be relaxed and quiet with tea and light music playing in the background. The social will have live music, the bar, and generally a bigger crowd.

Parks Canada partners with the RVAC, bring work from their artist residency program Art in the Park, to the main gallery. Since 2008, the Art in the Park program has provided visual artists with special access to explore one of Canada’s national parks and share their experience through art. The gallery will feature work from the nine artists that participated in the residency in 2022: Thomas Kero, Paule Poulin, Stuart Arnett, Hayley Stewart, Remi Goguen, Jolene Mackie, Margaret Blank, Nicole Barrette, and Tatjana Mirkov-Popovicki.

MARCH RVAC EXHIBITION FEATURES WORK FROM ART IN THE PARK RESIDENCY STUDENTS

By Nora Hughes

In the side gallery, artists Sarah Hill David and Halima Rogers explore and to foster connection, through playful, exploratory art-making. The Vancouver Island-based artists will paint sequentially in closest connection to furthest apart, both physically and thematically.

In Side Gallery Two, Roni Jurgensen from New Denver B.C. will display work centred around an ethereal kinetic sculptural installation which moves with a breeze.

Side gallery 3 will be an interactive community project where visitors will be able to get hands on and crafty with some wool. This will be a fun, family friendly activity. Everyone is encouraged to stay a while.

Canadian poet and spoken word performer Shane Koyczan explores the human experience at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre on Mar. 31.

Photo: Shane Koyczan press photo

Revelstoke Mountaineer 2023 Homestyle issue

Showcase your team’s amazing construction, renovation and home design work in the Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine 2023 Homestyle issue in April 2023. The issue features the best of Revelstoke home building, interior design, architecture, and home services from the past year.

Highlight your team’s great work. Contact us at info@revelstokemountaineer.com today. Final deadline is March 17, 2023.

OUTDOORS

A PREVIEW OF THE NATURAL SELECTION TOUR COMING TO REVELSTOKE

REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT PARTNERS WITH THE NATURAL SELECTION TOUR TO HOST THE SECOND STAGE OF THE INTERNATIONAL SNOWBOARDING COMPETITION IN REVELSTOKE ON MARCH 4–11.

by Nora Hughes.

The Natural Selection Tour is an international snowboarding competition that highlights the world’s best in the sport on some of the most challenging natural terrains. The competition is the brainchild of professional snowboarder Travis Rice. This year’s tour marks the third year that hand-selected snowboarders will get the chance to showcase their progression in dynamic venues.

The tour consists of three stages: DUELS, YETI Natural Selection at Revelstoke and Natural Selection at Valdez, Alaska. Natural Selection DUELS began dropping daily on February 19, featuring 24 of the world’s best riders going headto-head in twelve one-day competitions. DUELS, designed to bring out riders’ full creativity, highlight new zones and snowboarding’s diverse styles, were filmed in January and February 2023 at a dozen different venues. By March 2, twelve of the 24 riders will have emerged on top of their DUEL events and continue onto Revelstoke and Alaska.

Stage two of the competition brings the tour and 12 world-class riders to Revelstoke from March 4–11. When Mother Nature picks a day in the weather window, the contest will stream live on NaturalSelectionTour.com from within the Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing tenure.

All 12 riders competing at the YETI Natural Selection Revelstoke will move on

to Natural Selection Alaska in an all-new Natural Selection Tour super final venue outside of Valdez. During the window from March 25–April 1, riders will go head-to-head on the iconic steeps and spines of Alaska’s Chugach Mountain Range.

The tour works with industry partners, including YETI, title sponsor of the Revelstoke event and returning outerwear partner, Backcountry. Pacifico, TAE, Burton, Red Bull, Black Rhino, Sendy.io, Kodiak Cakes, Oakley, Wheel Pros, GoPro, Ski-Doo and Dakine will also be Tour partners this season.

Authentic mountain town community

The tour’s mission is to inspire people to forge a deeper relationship with Mother Nature. Revelstoke, known for its reliable snowfall and diverse, big-mountain terrain, was a natural fit for Natural Selection, says the tour’s media contact Lora Bodmer.

In addition to Revelstoke Mountain Resort being a welcoming destination with reliable snowfall, Bodmer says Revelstoke was an attractive destination for its mountain town community.

“The main thing that's drawing us there is this event’s run on natural terrain with natural snow,” she says. “But also, during the week, to be able to be in a community where we can be around snowboarders and be in an authentic mountain community, support that place and be a part of it is

Dustin Craven VS Werni Stock DUEL, Revelstoke, BC

Credit: Natural Selection / Chad Chomlack

really important. In choosing a new location in Canada, it was about where we can also really engage with the community, and we're excited to do that in Revelstoke.”

The course will be staged in the backcountry in Selkirk Tangiers’ tenure. Travis Rice has visited a few locations in the area alongside the tour’s operations team and local experts, but Bodmer says they don’t intend to pick a specific spot until closer to the event’s weather window on March 4-11. “We’re going to pick the venue that Mother Nature's given the best conditions and safety for the day.”

In contrast to previous venues on the Natural Selection Tour, the competition course in Revelstoke will be primarily natural terrain with very few built features.

“The course will be primarily natural terrain in the way that Alaska was in last year’s event,” says Bodmer. “The natural Selection course at Jackson was a two-year build. It was really extensive. [Revelstoke] will have builders and operations crew that will work to define jump takeoffs on different features, build in some other jumps and snow features, but it won’t be the full wooden build as we saw in Jackson.”

Bodmer says the NST team’s first priority is safety. “The primary goal is making sure that it’s safe for these riders to go as big as they want, ride the line they want and be in a safe position to do so.”

Event details

After the final DUELS competition airs on March 2, all 12 riders going on to stages two and three of the competition will travel to Revelstoke on March 3.

YETI Natural Selection Revelstoke will feature an action-packed event’s week right in our backyard with big names like Red Bull and Oakley putting on celebrations in honour of the competition.

On March 3, the NST opening ceremony takes place at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre from 7–8 p.m. The competitors and sponsors will kick off the week at this public event. Stay tuned for ticket and shuttle information.

Later on in the week, on March 7, Oakley hosts a party at Traverse, followed by a YETI film night at the Roxy Theatre on March 8, from 6–8 p.m.

On March 9, DJ Skratch Bastid will be turning up the Apres at the Rockford at RMT from 2:30–5:30 p.m., and Bier Haus will host Campfire Sessions at 8:30 p.m.

March 10 is the week’s closing ceremony at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, with a Red Bull after-party taking place at Traverse featuring Skratch Bastid. March 11 is the last official day of the competition window. In true Natural Selection fashion, Mother Nature will decide which day throughout the week the competition will happen.

For more event information and updates as they become available, check out the Revelstoke Mountaineer events calendar or our social media @ revelstoke_mountaineer. Natural Selection Tour information can be found at NaturalSelectionTour.com.

Dustin Craven. Photo by Chad Chomlick

REVELSTOKE RIDER DUSTIN CRAVEN TO COMPETE ON HOME TURF DURING YETI NATURAL SELECTION REVELSTOKE

FOLLOWING HIS NATURAL SELECTION TOUR DUEL COMPETITION THAT AIRED ON FEBRUARY 26, REVELSTOKE SNOWBOARDER DUSTIN CRAVEN WILL MOVE ON TO COMPETE ON THE TOUR’S SECOND STOP AT REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT.

By Nora Hughes.

Dustin Craven, dubbed one of the world’s best backcountry riders, will continue on in the Natural Selection Tour to compete at his home mountain in Revelstoke. The Calgary-raised snowboarder secured his spot in the next stage of the competition tour, and the third stop of the tour in Valdez, Alaska, following his DUEL against Austrian rider, Werni Stock.

Craven is a returning rider on the Natural Selection Tour and the winner of the 2022 tour stop at Baldface Lodge outside of Nelson, B.C. DUELS is a new segment incorporated into the Natural Selection Tour this year. Eight of the competition’s returning riders and four returning women face off with newly invited riders for one of the 12 coveted spots in YETI Natural Selection Revelstoke. The competition consists of randomized challengers that go head-to-head in the returning rider’s terrain of choice.

The raw footage from each DUEL is scored by the Natural Selection judging panel including Connor Manning, Chad Otterstrom, Bryan Fox, Giom Morriset and Jody Wachniak. DUELS scores are based on overall performance at the full session, rather than the highest scoring run as in other Natural Selection Tour stages. Judges evaluate the entire day’s riding for creativity, risk, execution, difficulty and overall flow. All elements of the criteria are equally combined, to move the day’s most dynamic rider forward in the Tour.

Revelstoke Mountaineer: Tell me about your NST DUEL against Werni Stock?

Dustin Craven: We did it shortly after the last cold snap — one of those sunny days in February. We had been waiting for good weather, and it just so happened that when we planned our window for Werni to come over from Austria, it happened to be a really sunny stretch. We had good snow and cold temps, but the sun was shining, so it was actually a really good day. He came over, and we did five runs. We started super early, around sunrise in the morning, and we were done by 11 a.m., and it was minus 25. So at 11 a.m., we just shut it down, and we drove straight to Halcyon and hit the hot pools for the day.

I have been selected to move on. The next stop is Revelstoke and the weather window for that part of the tour is March 4 to 11. Valdez, Alaska, is after that from March 25 to April 1. Now that I have the news, I’m planning for that, giving those dates up to be in those locations, and I’m going to try my hardest to win.

RM: How does it feel to have the Natural Selection Tour come to Revelstoke this year and to be able to compete on your home turf?

D: I feel like it's a little bit less stressful because such a large part of going to events is going for the whole weather window, and that's usually ten days. So big travel days, spending lots of money and all that kind of stuff. So having it at

home, I get to sleep in my own bed and do the event, but on all the down days, I'm around friends and get to keep filming our video. It's kinda like business as normal with a contest also happening. It takes away the stress of leaving for ten days to try my hardest in a competition in a foreign place.

RM: What is your favourite part of the Natural Selection Tour?

D: The part where you actually get to snowboard is pretty fun. There's a lot of stress and a lot of work that goes into coordinating and making sure the slopes are safe and everyone working really hard. So it's a lot of like “hurry up and wait.” So yeah, just the whole event takes so many things to happen. We get to ride such a unique piece of terrain. And when you get to that point, when you finally get to drop in and express yourself as a snowboarder, that is the best part.

RM: Is there anything else you’d like to add about this year’s tour?

D: I think just being able to have the tour at resorts is so huge because the resort, like RMR, gives the athletes a place to stay and obviously, being able to go on the ski hill and have a good time on the down days is pretty huge. I feel like it just makes everyone more comfortable and kind of gives them an opportunity to see new places. So it's pretty huge that they're taking care of us, and I think everyone will have a really great trip.

As of March 3, all DUEL competitions will have been completed, and the 12 riders competing at the YETI Natural Selection Revelstoke will move on to Natural Selection Alaska in a final venue outside of Valdez.

Photos: Clockwise from top left: Dustin Craven dropping in his Natural Selection DUEL with Werni Stock. Photo credit: Chad Chomlack; Dustin Craven faced off against Austrian rider Werni Stock for the first stage of the Natural Selection Tour at a location of Craven’s choosing near Revelstoke, B.C.; ; As the returning rider on tour, Craven picked the terrain of his choice for DUELS. Dustin Craven.

Photos by Chad Chomlick

DUSTIN CRAVEN

P: CHAD CHOMLACK

EVENT DATES:

MARCH 3 - 10

REVELSTOKE, B.C.

A new generation of outdoor events and experiences designed to inspire a deeper connection to Mother Nature, where the world’s greatest riders compete on our planet’s most challenging natural(ly enhanced) terrain. Featuring Mark McMorris, Travis Rice, Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, Torstein Horgmo, Ben Ferguson, Kimmy Fasani, Mikkel Bang, Jared Elston, Elena Hight, Blake Paul, Dustin Craven and Hailey Langland.

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