Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine May 2023 issue

A LOOK AT 2023’S FIRST QUARTER REAL ESTATE SALES

January to March 2023 saw a total of 29 real estate transactions in Revelstoke

It’s been said that April showers bring May flowers. In Revelstoke, April showers bring May showers and then mosquitos. As we go into the first months of spring, all the sale information for the first quarter of the year is finally recorded and we can now take a comprehensive look at how Revelstoke's 2023 real estate market has shaped up so far.

January to March 31, 2023 saw a total of 29 real estate transactions. This includes single family homes, strata properties, manufactured homes and vacant land. In the single-family home category, there were 14 transactions with sale prices ranging from $485,000 to $1,610,000 or an average sale price of $876,029, and an average sale time of 91 days. Eight of the sales were strata properties, two were manufactured home sales and five were sales of vacant land. In total there was $20,817,399 in real estate sales.

To compare, 2022’s first quarter totaled 36 transactions, with 19 single family home sales ranging from $395,000 to $1,200,000, and an average sale price of $886,163. The average sale timeline was 66 days. Eight strata properties, two manufactured homes sales and seven in the vacant land category, totaling $28,764,099.

The breakdown – overall real estate sales are down just shy of 20 per cent from 2022 to 2023. The timeline to sell a single-family home increased by approximately 30 days or 23 per cent. The average sale price of a single-family home was down only 1.5 per cent.

The average list price of a single-family home is up from $900,364 in 2022 to $1,129,786 at the end of March 2023. List volume has increased with 38 single family homes listed for sale at the end of the first quarter of 2023 and only 24 at the end of the first quarter in 2022.

The BC Real Estate Association (BCREA) released an article April 13, 2023 stating, “The BC housing market is currently characterized by slow sales but also still very low levels of listings” **. Locally we are seeing a slower sale timeline but an increase in listings. Homeowners’ reluctance to sell for a decreased price could be a challenge with the timeline. The key to selling a property in the next quarter and into the spring will likely come down to pricing correctly.

Generally spring is when we see a resurgence so the end of the second quarter results will be very telling if our local market is starting to reflect that of the rest of BC.

If you made it through this article (I get it, it was a lot) and are interested in more detailed information or want a market evaluation specific to your home or property, please reach out. I am always interested in meeting with the members of our amazing community to talk everything real estate and in particular your individual experiences and thoughts!

*Tara Sutherland, Associate Broker – RE/MAX Revelstoke Realty – 250-8148677 or tara@revelstoke-realty.com

** BCREA article https://www.bcrea.bc.ca/economics/bc-markets-showingsigns-of-recovery-as-supply-remains-scarce/

** Information taken from the MLS for Revelstoke specifically on March 31, 2023 and April 18, 2023.

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

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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

REPORTER

Melissa Jameson melissa@revelstokemountaineer.com

EDITORIAL DESIGN/ADVERTISING DESIGN

Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com

WEBSITE Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jill Macdonald, Alex Cooper

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Marlene Krug, Alex Cooper, Taylor Sandell

COVER AND INSET PHOTOS: Revelstoke multimedia artist Taylor Sandell's multi story projection exhibit, Confluence, was a feature in LUNA fest 2022. The work reflected on the challenges of recent years due to the pandemic, Ukraine invasion, mass grave discoveries, and environmental degradation and the resulting societal division based on various factors like vaccinations, immigration laws, religion, and economy. In a statement on the work, Sandell said this division was evident in Revelstoke's diverse community, which is undergoing demographic change. The Confluence project highlighted the community's diversity, celebrating its varied groups that have shaped Revelstoke and their joining through a visual journey along the river. For more on Taylor Sandell, see our mini feature on page 20. Photos by Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

Shoulder season

As the days grow longer and the temperatures slowly begin to rise, we welcome the change of seasons from winter to spring. The arrival blooming flowers, greener landscapes, and chirping birds are a clear indication of a new season ahead.

In this issue of our magazine, we explore the different facets of this exciting time of year. Our focus is mixed, as we aim to bring you a range of stories that will pique your interests and broaden your horizons. From mountain bike trail building to the toxic drug death issue, we have a range of topics that will keep you engaged.

Our feature on mountain bike trail building explores what it takes to create new trails for enthusiasts. You'll get a glimpse into the challenges they face.

We also delve into the critical issue of toxic

drug deaths, which now total 13 in Revelstoke since 2020. Our report highlights the dangers of these deadly substances and the efforts being made to combat this pressing problem.

In addition, we bring you an inspiring story about a new cricket team that is breaking barriers and making waves in their community. You'll learn about the challenges they have faced and the strides they have made in their journey towards success.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope that you will be captivated by the diverse stories we have to share.

–Revelstoke Mountaineer staff

Revelstoke resident Lisa Moore shares her

the Indigenous

Revelstoke

12

TOXIC DRUG SUPPLY DEATHS CONTINUE IN REVELSTOKE

Thirteen people have died from toxic drug supply in Revelstoke since 2020. We checked in with Erin MacLachlan from Community Connections about ongoing efforts to reduce harm and deaths in Revelstoke.

14

TRAIL PLANNING

A look at what it takes to get a mountain bike trail completed in 2023.

18

ARTS & OUTDOORS BRIEFS

We review and preview arts and outdoors events in Revesltoke in our brief roundup.

20

MINI PROFILE: TAYLOR SANDELL

We profile Revelstoke multimedia artist Taylor Sandell, who works in a variety of media, including digital animation, traditional arts, online work and participation in the local arts scene.

22

CRICKET REVIVAL

Waves of new migrants to Revelstoke from around the globe has led to the revival of a cricket club in Revelstoke. We checked in with some of the team members to find out about the emerging scene and their plans.

MAY EVENTS

MONDAY, MAY 1

DISNEY IN SONG, REVELSTOKE COMMUNITY & KIDS CHOIRS

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave, 6:30 p.m.

The Revelstoke Community Choir and Revelstoke Kids Choir present Disney in Song with special guest Holly Bhattacharya. Tickets $15 adults, $5 youth, children four and under free. Tickets for purchase at artsrevelstoke. com.

TUESDAY, MAY 2

DROP-IN ART NIGHT

Revelstoke Visual Art Centre, 320 Wilson Street, 7–9p.m.

The Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre is opening the kitchen studio for people to come in, hang out, and get creative. This drop-in event is open to absolutely everyone. If you want to get out of the house and just paint, draw, sew, care of create then this drop-in session is for you. Basic tools are provided, but guests need to bring their own materials. Open to youth, adults, and seniors of all abilities.

MAY 2023 CALENDAR

THURSDAY, MAY 4

COFFEE SOCIAL THURSDAY

Community Connections Outreach Building, 416 Second Street West, 10–11:30 a.m.

A safe space to come and connect with other community members and support one another. All are welcome to drop by for a coffee, casual conversation and baked goodies made in the Neighbourhood Kitchen.

EXHIBITION OPENING EVENT

Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson Street, 2–8p.m. View works from Revelstoke artists Jacqueline Palmer (main gallery), Isaac Becker (S2), and Sarah Hickes (s3), along with Portland, Oregon-based artist Robbie McClaran (s1). Viewing from 2–5p.m. with a social following from 5-8p.m. visit revelstokeartgallery.ca for more information. Admission $5.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

ARTIST TALK WITH ROBBIE MCCLARAN

Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson Street, 6 p.m.-8p.m.

A free artist talk by documentary and fine art photographer Robbie McClaran. McClaran’s talk will provide a fascinating overview of his career as well

as an in-depth look at his latest exhibition The Great River of the West. No booking required and everyone welcome.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

REVELSTOKE FARM & CRAFT MARKET/ REVELSTOKE LFI FARMERS MARKET

Downtown Revelstoke, 8 a.m.–1p.m. Head downtown to Mackenzie Ave and First Street where you’ll find not one, but two farmers’ markets full of locally grown produce, arts & crafts and much more.

SUNDAY, MAY 7

COMMUNITY DAY

Revelstoke Golf Club, 171 Columbia Park Drive, all-day starting at 11 a.m. Locals play free after 11 a.m. with a food bank or cash donation ($20 minimum).

MOTHERS DAY WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP

Revelstoke Visual Art Centre, 320 Wilson Street, 10–11:30 a.m. or 1–2:30 p.m. (with kids), and 7:30–10 p.m. (for mom only)

A workshop designed for the mothers of Revelstoke. Instructor Lara Davis will lead participants through a fun and collaborative process where mom and up to two kids can work together to create a series of abstract watercolour pieces, followed by a mom only art social in the evening. $55 per family, two children maximum. All materials included. Visit revelstokeartgallery.ca for more information or to register.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

COFFEE SOCIAL THURSDAY

Community Connections Outreach Building, 416 Second Street West, 10–11:30 a.m.

A safe space to come and connect with other community

members and support one another. All are welcome to drop by for a coffee, casual conversation and baked goodies made in the Neighbourhood Kitchen.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

REVELSTOKE FARM & CRAFT MARKET/ REVELSTOKE LFI FARMERS MARKET

Downtown Revelstoke, 8 a.m.-1p.m. Head downtown to Mackenzie Ave and First Street where you’ll find not one, but two farmers’ markets full of locally grown produce, arts, crafts and much more.

DANCE MOVIE DAY: UPROOTED

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave, 2–4p.m. UPROOTED is a feature-length documentary celebrating the African history, lineage, and future progressions of jazz dance. Exploring and commenting on political and social influences, the film addresses topics such as appropriation, racism, socialism, and sexism. Admission is free, but a food bank donation is suggested for this event. Visit artsrevelstoke.com for more information.

COMEDY FOR A CAUSE

Revelstoke Community & Aquatic Centre, 600 Campbell Ave, 7:30–9p.m. The goal of Alex Mackenzie’s Comedy for a Cause Tour is to build a sense of community by bringing people together through the power of laughter, love and giving. Proceeds from the show will go to Community Connections. For tickets or more info visit community-connections.ca or call 250837-2920.

Participate in a Mother's Day watercolour workshop at the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

COFFEE SOCIAL

THURSDAY

Community Connections Outreach Building, 416 Second Street West, 10–11:30 a.m.

A safe space to come and connect with other community members and support one another. All are welcome to drop by for a coffee, casual conversation and baked goodies made in the Neighbourhood Kitchen.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

REVELSTOKE FARM & CRAFT MARKET/ REVELSTOKE LFI

FARMERS MARKET

Downtown Revelstoke, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Head downtown to Mackenzie Avenue and First Street where you’ll find not one, but two farmers’ markets full of locally grown produce, arts & crafts and much more.

BIKE PARK OPENING DAY

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950

Camozzi Road, 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m.

Head up to RMR for the ope-

ning of the bike trails for the season. There will be vendors and animation at the village base. Visit revelstokemountainresort.com for more details.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

COFFEE SOCIAL THURSDAY

Community Connections Outreach Building, 416 Second Street West, 10–11:30 a.m.

A safe space to come and connect with other community members and support one another. All are welcome to drop by for a coffee, casual conversation and baked goodies made in the Neighbourhood Kitchen.

DIY COMEDY TOUR

Craft Bierhaus, 107 Second Street East, 7–8:30 p.m.

A comedy tour featuring four amazing comedians! Comedians Herbert Henries/Scott Porteous, Mike Payne and Frank Russo perform at Craft Beirhaus. Admission $20-$30 available on Event Brite.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

REVELSTOKE FARM & CRAFT MARKET/ REVELSTOKE LFI

FARMERS MARKET

Downtown Revelstoke, 8 a.m.-1p.m. Head downtown to Mackenzie Ave and First Street where you’ll find not one, but two farmers’ markets full of locally grown produce, arts & crafts and much more.

REVELSTOKE RE-FEST

Downtown Revelstoke & various locations, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Revy Re-fest is the first of its kind community upcycling festival with the goal to gather the community around the four R’s: Reduce, Re-use, Recycle & Repurpose. Saturday’s activities include a re-crafted goods market, a repair café, and a performance by a Million Dollars in Pennies. For more info and event times & locations, visit www.re-fest. com.

SUNDAY, MAY 28

REVELSTOKE RE-FEST

Revelstoke Community & Aquatic Centre, 600 Campbell Ave, 9a.m.–3p.m.

Revy Re-fest is the first of its kind community upcycling festival with the goal to gather the community around the four R’s: Reduce, Re-use, Recycle & Repurpose. Sunday’s activities include a book swap, bike swap, clothing swap and more. For more info and event times & locations visit www.re-fest.com.

MONDAY, MAY 29

DEATH CAFÉ

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

At a Death Café, people drink tea, eat cake and discuss death. Join us for some casual conversation on the last Monday of each month (excluding holidays).

Photographer Robbie McClaran presents The Great River at RVAC.

Photo: Robbie McClaran

Artist Jacqueline Palmer presents an exhibit based on mountain caribou at the RVAC starting May 4. Image: Jacqueline Palmer

LONE CARIBOU FROM COLUMBIA SOUTH HERD MOVED TO CENTRAL SELKIRK MATERNITY PEN

By Melissa Jameson

The remaining female caribou from the Columbia South herd, known to use habitat in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks, is in good health after being relocated to the Central Selkirk maternity pen near Nakusp, Parks Canada said. The relocation took place on March 28, with Parks Canada working along with partners in the Revelstoke Complex and Central Selkirks Caribou Technical Working Group to help mitigate risk to the caribou, who had been the lone female in the Columbia South herd since winter 2021-2022.

In an update on April 3, Parks Canada noted that, “on her own the caribou has a low chance of survival and no change of having calves.” The female caribou was relocated on March 28, and according to Parks Canada is in good health.

The Central Selkirk maternity pen is operated by the Arrow Lakes Caribou Society and is monitored by veterinary support.

“The decision to translocate this caribou was a difficult one. The Columbia South herd is now extirpated (no caribou remain in the herd’s range) and we recognize this may cause a sense of grief for some people,” Parks Canada said in a statement.

The caribou will remain in the 6.6-hectare maternity pen enclosure for the next few months to acclimatize to the new surroundings. There are nine other female caribou and their calves in the pen. All the caribou will be released into the Central Selkirks herd range in the summer.

The Columbia South and Central Selkirks caribou herds belong to the southern mountain population of the woodland caribou listed as a threatened species under the Species at Risk Act.

Information on Parks Canada’s website notes “Woodland caribou in the Columbia Mountains have declined significantly over the last few decades and their decline is a sign of large-scale change in the local ecosystem.”

A newly launched PacificSport Centre in the Columbia Basin will give leadership to the sport sector in the region, helping build capacity, deliver programs, and develop partnerships that address structural and systemic barriers to sport participation, as well as ensure all participants and communities have opportunities to learn, grow, and develop their potential through sport.

The PacificSport Columbia Basin is part of the Regional Sport Alliance, a collective of provincial sport-delivery organizations passionate about enriching lives and energizing communities through sport and activity. The new centre is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport through viaSport.

Operating primarily as a virtual centre, PacificSport Columbia Basin executive director James Brotherhood said most of the organization’s work can be done “using technology and by increasing the capacity or skills of local sports leaders in each community. For example, I am working with Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club head coach Zach Hill on how to best utilize their blood lactate analyzers for on snow assessment of training adaptations and prescription of training zones for the athletes.

PACIFICSPORT CENTRE WILL SUPPORT ATHLETES IN THE COLUMBIA BASIN

By Melissa Jameson

“Uniquely for Revelstoke, PacificSport Columbia Basin and PacificSport Interior (based in Kamloops) will work closely together to support the athletes, coaches and local sport organizations, as PacificSport Interior has supported the Revelstoke for over 20 years and has developed several long-standing partnerships and relationships,” said Brotherhood. In-person services and programs will utilize a distributed staff as well as enhance the capacity and skills of key partners within each community

Sport participation is very popular in the Columbia Basin, with nearly half of adolescents between Grades five and eight participating in organized sports, PacificSport Columbia Basin said in a statement. Delivering these programs are more than 250 volunteer led local sport organizations, 82 schools, and over 1,700 trained and registered coaches/technical officials.

Provincial government biologists successfully moved three caribou from the South Selkirk and South Purcells herds to Revelstoke in January of 2019.

Photo: Parks Canada/file photo

Youth skiers compete in an International Freeskiers & Snowboarders competition at Revelstoke Mountain Resort on March 12.

Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

CITY SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON FUTURE OF REVELSTOKE FORUM

By Melissa Jameson

The City of Revelstoke is asking for public input to help inform council decision-making and shape detailed options for the future of the Revelstoke Forum and Curling Club. The current building housing the forum and curling club is more than 60 years old. “We need to plan for the future. Planning now ensure the city is well positioned for future investment grant opportunities,” the city said in a statement.

The city launched a six-week public engagement process near the end of April, intended to hear the community’s thoughts about potential options for the future of the forum. Options for the future of the Revelstoke Forum and Curling Club are:

• Replace the roof and make the required building code upgrades ($25-$35 million)

• New players arena with seating on one side ($25–35 million)

• New spectator arena with seating on both sides ($45–50 million)

• A new multi-sport complex, including an ice arena ($50–$70 million)

The city said this first phase of engagement will help advance community awareness and dialogue about what options might look like. Funding will require a combination of city infrastructure reserves, borrowing, and external grants or partnerships.

Electoral approval to borrow funds for the purpose of upgrading or building a new arena facility will be sought once a preferred approach is known. According to the city this would be sought through a referendum or alternative approval process.

Community members can learn more about the options for the forum and curling club by attending an open house and tour at the arena on Thursday, May 4 from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. There is also a survey available at talkrevelstoke. ca which is open until May 31.

The city said input will be compiled and shared with council and the public later this summer.

REVELSTOKE GRIZZLIES HOST AND WIN CYCLONE TAYLOR CUP

THE GRIZZLIES SERVED AS HOSTS, HOISTING THE CYCLONE TAYLOR CUP AT HOME.

By Revelstoke Mountaineer staff

The Revelstoke Grizzlies have won the Cyclone Taylor Cup, the BC Junior B Hockey Championship tournament, winning the final game 4-1 over KIJHL rivals and champions Kimberley Dynamiters on April 16.

The tournament sees the winners of each of three Junior B leagues — the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League, the Pacific Junior Hockey League, and the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League — play for the championship cup, along with the host team. The Grizzlies, who lost to the Princeton Posse in the KIJHL Okanagan-Shuswap Conference Finals, the semi-finals for the KIJHL, participated in the tournament as the host team and went all the way to win the cup.

In 2023, the tournament featured the Revelstoke Grizzlies, the Delta Ice Hawks, the Oceanside Generals, and the Kimberley Dynamiters.

Grizzlies forward Carter Bettenson earned the tournament MVP honour.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies celebrate their win at the Cyclone Taylor Cup at the Revelstoke Forum on April 16. Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

The Revelstoke Forum during Cyclone Taylor Cup action in April. Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

As long as you have the land, you’re not lost

BUILDING INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION IN REVELSTOKE

By Melissa Jameson

For a long time, the narrative was that while, historically, the people of the Sinixt, Secwepemc, Ktunaxa, and Syilx nations travelled through the area now know as Revelstoke, the harsh winter climate meant none truly made it their home.

We now know that isn’t true, and that the error came from applying settler-colonial concepts of home to Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

In an October 2021 story for the Mountaineer, Revelstoke writer Laura Stovel wrote that the Sinixt, “lived and thrived in this region as far back as they can remember. Skxikn (pronounced Skuhee-kin), now known as the Big Eddy, was the site of a Sinixt village or camp and a place of trade and socialization with eastern Secwepemc people who often joined them as a part of their seasonal rounds.”

When the first settlers came to Revelstoke in 1885, their lack of knowledge on seasonal rounds led to them not recognizing the area as part of the Sinixt territory.

“I don’t think we have a lot of understanding of seasonal rounds. I think we have – especially back in the day when people were moving here – a big misunderstanding of seasonal rounds. A lot of that has changed with Eileen Delehanty Pearkes book

The Geography of Memory. That was really the first sort of ‘aha’ moment saying there was the Sinixt Village here, and a name for it. It was all new for me,” said Lisa Moore, culture education manger for the Indigenous Friendship Society of Revelstoke.

Like many other Indigenous people Moore, who is also Secondary Aboriginal Student Assistant with School District 19 Revelstoke, has not always had connection to her culture.

“When I started with the school district I didn’t know the four nations, I didn’t know anything. I didn’t even know about my own Metis culture. I knew I was Metis, but I didn’t know what that meant.”

In most places in BC there is at least one First Nations Band to advocate for its members in that community. In many communities there are also Indigenous Friendship Centres, which are described by the National Association of Friendship Centres as providing, “crucial points of connection, community, and a network of culture hubs. They have become a place for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together, to share traditions, and to learn from one another.” Revelstoke has neither.

In 2015, the Indigenous Friendship Society of Revelstoke was formed. Unlike many friendship centres, the society does not have a space where people can drop-in. However, over the years the society has hosted a number of events, some open to the public, and some – such as a recent Indigenous mom’s baby group – are solely for Indigenous people.

Originally, this story was going to be a feature about Moore’s contribution to the community. In December 2022, Moore was presented with a Spirit of Revelstoke award for her work with the friendship society.

Along the way the story evolved, and its focus became more about acknowledging the challenges many Indigenous peoples in Revelstoke experience in terms of trying to remain connected to their culture and community.

“I have made many mistakes. People who have been raised in culture, they very politely tell me, ‘That was incorrect’, or ‘this is how you should do it.’ I remember going to a youth conference in Castlegar and there was some elders and knowledge keepers. I said, ‘What do I do here?’ They said, ‘Just let people know where you got the knowledge from, that it belongs to this nation as much as you can and that’s all you can do. When you get the chance to learn more, learn more’,” said Moore. “It’s getting better but back when I started there was nobody to talk to about it or to … we just didn’t have those connections.”

Over the years, more connections have been made with the elders and knowledge keepers from the four nations (the Sinixt, Secwepemc, Ktunaxa, and Syilx). Some of those individuals have included elder Louis Thomas of the Neskonlith band, Shelley Boyd and her predecessor, Virgil Seymour, from

A dancer performs at the 2022 Spring Gathering.

Photo: Marlene Krug

The Sage Hills singers perform at the Spring Gathering.

Photo: Marlene Krug

Lisa Moore is the culture education manger for the Indigenous Friendship Society of Revelstoke.

Photo: Contributed

the Coleville Sinixt, and Randy Williams from the Splatsin band. It was the connection with Williams, who is currently involved with an elder program in the Revelstoke School District, that led to the Indigenous mom’s baby group.

“In a lot of cases the role of our society is to build relationships with Indigenous service providers and resources and facilitate them coming back to Revelstoke,” Michelle Cole, with the Indigenous Friendship Society of Revelstoke, said. “We’re not hosting them; this is their territory. We’ve been able to build some pretty good relationships that way … In Indigenous culture the parents and the family are the teachers, they’re the number one teachers, so we decided to start with a motherhood group just to start building relationships and connections.”

Cole said over the last eight years, the friendship society has put on around 20 events including elder outreach, a men’s campfire program, and a speaker’s series on food security. It’s events like these that create a sense of connection for Indigenous people who may also be discovering, or re-discovering, their own culture. While the events are for the broader community as well, Moore says it’s a way for Indigenous people in town to connect and recognize one another.

“We need a way to connect … I spoke with Michele Sam who is a Ktunaxa knowledge keeper, and I said, ‘We’re a little bit lost here, lots of people don’t really have cultural connections’, and she said, ‘You have land though. As long as you have the land you’re not lost. So, I think that is really what we need to ground all of this in connecting to the land and stewardship of the land,” said Moore.

Since the friendship society was formed in Revelstoke, more and more people have begun to connect and become involved with their Indigenous cultures. However, non-Indigenous people also have an important role to play. Moore said she is often contacted by different groups to come and do a land acknowledgement.

“When I explain it really should come from you, they’re 100 per cent happy to work with that. But this isn’t my territory, I can’t welcome you to it, no matter that I am Indigenous, because I am from a different place. Also, the land acknowledgement is more than spouting off the four nations, it’s you’re acknowledging the land and your gratitude for what it’s provided for you, as well as your commitment to stewarding it.”

As an example, Moore said, Revelstoke Early Years coordinator Tracy Spannier worked with elders to come up with a land acknowledgement for the centre. Moore says she has changed her own land acknowledgement every few years, as she learns more.

“I think that people kind of think Indigenous culture is over here, and we need to respect it and that’s good, but it can be infused in-between everything. Just because I mention one time, ‘Oh, the story of this mountain or this river’ … that can just be a story that’s fitted in with whatever you’re talking about. It doesn’t have to mean we switch into Indigenous mode now,” said Moore. “You can incorporate [Indigenous knowledge and understanding] into daily conversation, it’s not one or the other.”

TOURISM TALKS

THE REVELSTOKE AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

Whether you’re new to Revelstoke or you just want to brush up on your knowledge, the Revelstoke Ambassador Program is a great way to hone your customer service skills. The Revelstoke Ambassador Program is opening its summer intake on June 1st. This free program is two hours long and features two topics to get you off to a great start in your tourism role in Revelstoke.

The Ambassador Program benefits are offered to anyone who completes the program and works in the tourism industry in Revelstoke, in a frontline or visitor-facing position. Benefits include a discounted season pass to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, entry to our local museums, and discounts at local businesses.

The impetus behind the creation of the Ambassador Program was to ensure that our visitors are well informed and have an outstanding experience in Revelstoke. The program informs participants on frequently asked visitor questions, key places to access pertinent information, and on critical customer service guidelines.

How to complete the program:

1. Head to https://www.revelstokechamber.com/ambassador

2. Register and complete the two necessary modules.

3. Email ambassador@revelstokechamber.com with your proof of employment form and your course completion certificates.

To read previous Tourism Talks columns and to learn about destination management in Revelstoke, head to DestinationRevelstoke.com or listen to Think Revelstoke wherever you get your podcasts.

Photo: Olly Hogan

Photo: Zoya Lynch

Marlene Krug (Tsimsian) and Delreé Dumont (Onion Lake First Nation) at the Spring Gathering.

Photo provided by Marlene Krug.

KNOW HOW TO STOP PEOPLE DYING FROM DRUG TOXICITY, CAN YOU PLEASE LISTEN?’

A statement from BC Minister of Mental Heath and Addictions Jennifer Whiteside released in mid-April noted the provincial government is working to expand supports and programs to deliver integrated mental-health and addiction services with $1 Billion in targeted investments. However, the announcement did not expand on what that could mean for smaller communities like Revelstoke. Currently, Revelstoke has only one substance use counsellor who sees people free of charge through adult mental health at Queen Victoria Hospital.

“One person for a population of 8,500 feels inadequate,” said MacLachlan. Add on to that the fact that facilities for people to address their substance use are all out of town, often with lengthy waitlists unless folks can pay for faster access, and the problem begins to feel insurmountable.

“If there’s only one person [in Revelstoke] that provides free support, and only a few facilities that you can access that are free to be able to get support related to your substance use, and the rest are at a fee, but your substance use is maybe related to the fact you have no money and everything in your life is falling apart, I’m not really sure how you would get to the support you need,” said MacLachlan.

“We don’t have drug testing in Revelstoke, we don’t have a safe injection site, we still have people dying from toxic drugs, but that doesn’t mean I’m just going to say, ‘too bad, we don’t have anything.’ I’m going to keep talking about it.”

How a safe supply and a shift in attitudes about what a drug user looks like could help reduce harm

By Melissa Jameson.

The number of deaths related to a toxic supply of illicit drugs in British Columbia continues to climb, with nearly 600 lives lost in the first three months of 2023. Here in Revelstoke, 13 people have lost their lives due to poisoned drugs since 2020. Two of those deaths occurred within the first few months of 2023.

While the number of deaths due to poisoned drugs in Revelstoke is small when compared to larger urban centres, Erin MacLachlan, co-director of community outreach and development at Community Connections believes the deaths could have been prevented.

“I get it, we’re not Vancouver. This isn’t seven deaths a day, but I also think all of this is preventable and that’s what makes it really frustrating and heart-breaking,” MacLachlan said, while noting that deaths from drug toxicity have surpassed deaths from COVID-19. “We didn’t know what COVID was, we didn’t know how to manage that virus. We had to learn, and we figured it out. It’s been many years of people saying, ‘We know how to stop people dying from drug toxicity, can you please listen?’ Really it’s about safe supply and having the ability to test what you’re ingesting.”

During our 30-minute conversation for this story, Erin and I spoke about everything from the harm caused by stereotypes of what an illicit drug user looks like to defining terms like ‘harm-reduction’ and ‘safe-supply’, and what services and supports are currently available in Revelstoke. Some of the answers have been edited for length and clarity.

Melissa Jameson: In what way do existing attitudes and stereotypes about what a drug user looks like prevent people from seeking services, or make it difficult for organizations providing supports for those who use illicit substances?

Erin McLachlan: I would love for that stigma to disappear. I would love for the focus to not be on who’s good or bad, and instead be on how do we keep people safe. I’m not telling people that they should be using more drugs. I’m not promoting drug use. I’m not condemning drug use. None of that is in my interest and it’s not in the interest of public health in general. Most of [Community Connection’s] harm reduction work is in collaboration with Interior Health. This is about public safety and public health. We’re not here to judge, we’re just here to inform and provide the tools and information that might help you live your life a little safer.

MJ: There’s multiple definitions of harm reduction and safe supply. How does Community Connections define those terms?

EM: Harm reduction, safe supply, drug testing, safe injection site – all these terms get thrown around in the media and it’s difficult for people to parse out what that means. Harm reduction is an umbrella term, it

‘WE

IN REVELSTOKE, TWO PEOPLE DIED FROM POISONED DRUGS IN THE FIRST MONTHS OF 2023, BRINGING THE TOTAL TO 13 DEATHS SINCE 2020

Toxic drug supply deaths continue to be a quiet crisis in Revelstoke, with 13 recorded here since 2020.

encompasses all the things that people do to help people stay safe when they’re using substances. Harm reduction includes clean needles, drug testing, safe supply. Safe supply is substances that have been regulated in their production. So, one method for people that are using opioids [to be able to use] in a safer environment is to have a daily supply of methadone, which is a sort of fake opioid. Those are all part of harm reduction.

[Revelstoke] does not have a safe injection site, [Community Connections is] not a safe injection site – that is a place where people can bring their substances, inject their substances, and be monitored to ensure that their substance use isn’t going to result in death. Most of those injection sites are in larger city centres. In collaboration with injection sites are often drug testing facilities. There’s lots of different types of drug testing, but the most accurate type of drug testing is often in an urban centre because they have access to a spectrometer which can properly test your substance for toxicity.

MJ: Are there any methods of drug testing available in Revelstoke?

EM: I have fentanyl test strips and we also can take a small sample of your substances and send it away, get it tested and get the results back. That is not helpful for people who are going to be using their substances right away.

MJ: It’s easy to ignore the humanity behind the statistics related to drug poisoning deaths. How would you explain to the broader community the importance of re-thinking their idea of what a typical substance user looks like?

EM: I think that again, that’s that hard perspective shift and that stigma around a drug user being somebody that’s a drain on the economy because they’re living on welfare and they’re taking time from social services and they’re taking time from paramedics and hospitals. All of that would stop if they had access and the ability to use safe substances and use in a safe environment. We can vilify people individually all the time, and we do it all the time […], but who does that perspective serve to vilify individuals?

To me that’s just an easy cop-out and a refusal to change a system. I would rather change a system and change our response than I would vilify individuals.

MJ: What services and supports currently exist and how can people access those services?

EM: I think the best thing to do is come to our community drop-in time. We coordinate our drop-in time with access to the food bank. We have injection kits, inhalation kits. In those kits are clean needles and clean pipes, and information on how to dispose of your drug paraphernalia and information on how to access any type of support you want in the community. Come here, because we know everybody – all the counsellors, Interior Health staff, all the types of support that exist. I think sometimes a barrier to people finding service is that they go to one person and ask for help, but maybe it’s not a good fit or the experience is off-putting, and they don’t go anywhere else. So, having that conversation with us can often open the doors to all the types of supports that are available and what might be the best fit for the current situation.

The Community Connections Outreach Building is located at 416 Second Street West. Drop-in hours are Mondays from 10 a.m.-1p.m., Wednesday’s from 3p.m. -6 p.m., and Friday’s from 10 a.m.-12p.m. Additional information on services and supports related to substance use and mental health can also be found by visiting revelstokelife.ca.

Erin MacLachlan is the co-director of community outreach and development at Community Connections. Photo: Aaron Orlando.

EXPLORING WHAT IT TAKES TO GET NEW MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS GET BUILT

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO ADD A NEW MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL TO THE LOCAL NETWORK?

By Alex Cooper, Executive Director, Revelstoke Cycling Association.

The Revelstoke Cycling Association is excited to be breaking ground on a climb trail on Boulder Mountain this summer. This is our first major project since 2019 and we’re looking forward to creating a new riding experience for the local mountain biking community.

We often get asked: why don’t you build as many new trails as you used to? While progress may seem slower these days, since 2018, we’ve opened Upper Super Happy Fun, Miller Time, Toad School, Beaver Tail, Eager Beaver, Serenity Now, and the Rotary Skills Park on Mount Macpherson. We have also started development of a new network on Sunnyside, rerouted the bottom of Ultimate Frisby, and re-built The Rooster on Boulder.

But, truth be told, building new trails is not as easy as it used to be. We have no shortage of ideas for new trails (and we hear our member’s ideas, too), but getting them through the new provincial approval process and then built takes time.

What goes into building a new trail? If you’re a rogue trail builder, you simply walk into the woods with a few tools, scrape away some dirt, maybe shape a few jumps, and ride your bike. If you’re a trail association like us trying to build legal trails that will stand the test of time, it takes a lot more work.

Step one is identifying what type of trails are most needed. The RCA does this by surveying our members, identifying gaps in our network, and looking at what other clubs are doing. A climb trail on Boulder has come up numerous times in recent surveys. It also fills a gap in the network by providing a climbing option on Boulder that will be far preferable to riding up the road. We also hope it will take some shuttle traffic off the Boulder Mountain road, which will make it safer

for all users (it sees a lot of industrial traffic) and better for the environment.

Step two is flagging the line. Do you like tramping through the forest and have a keen eye for detail? Then this part is for you. Scouting lines can be fun and a great way to explore nature. If you’re building a downhill trail, it’s about spotting those cool features that will be fun to ride and figuring out ways to link them up. For a climb trail, it’s somewhat like setting a skin track, looking for meandering, flattish benches, and natural spots to put in switchbacks on otherwise steep ground. Once we have a decent idea of where the trail is going to go, we’re required to hire a professional trail builder to look it over and scout the final line for the application. For the Boulder climb trail, we hired Mark Wood of Trail Holistics to finalize the layout to the top of Boondocker and ensure we use the best route possible.

Step three is the application process itself. To build a trail, we’re required to complete a Section 57 application, named for the part of the Forest & Range Practice Act it falls under. This is where we make the pitch to the government on the rationale behind the trail. Where does the trail go? Why do we want to build it? What purpose will it serve? Are there any special features, like bridges or jumps? Who gets to use it? Who else has interests in the area? How will we maintain the trail?

The new application process is probably the most complex part of building a new trail. In the past, if we wanted to build a new trail on Boulder or Macpherson, where we have a long, successful track record of trail construction and maintenance, we simply submitted a short form and a line file, and it was likely to get approved. This changed a few years ago. Now, we’re expected to complete an environmental review and conduct a preliminary engagement with local stakeholders as part of the application process. This means letting First Nations (Revelstoke is in the territory of 12 bands), forestry companies, local government, and other stakeholders know what we’re hoping to build prior to applying. This engagement is a new part of the process and something we’re learning to navigate. Part of the reason we hired an executive director was to help navigate this process.

Zoe Schultz competes in the 2022 Revelstoke Women’s Enduro race.

Photo: Alex Cooper

Once the Section 57 application is complete, it goes to our local Recreation Officer. We’re one of over 30 non-profit recreation groups under one recreation officer, most of whom are trying to build new trails and other facilities. The proposal then goes out for a formal referral process, where our Rec Officer collects even more feedback on the project. Only after all that input comes back will they make a decision. A strong application strengthens our chances of approval, but that usually with conditions.

By now, at least a year has passed since we started work on this application. We finally have a signed approval in place to build the trail. The next step is funding. For the Boulder climb trail, we were able to put aside some membership and sponsorship funds over the past few years in order to fill a piggy bank to pay for the trail. We were also fortunate to receive $29,000 in funding from the Resort Municipality Infrastructure fund, which is about a third of the cost of the project. This is enough to build Phase 1 this summer to the top of Gravy Bacon. The trail is approved to the top of Boondocker and we hope to build those sections in the future.

With funding in place, we can find someone to build it. We have a threeperson trail crew, but they’re occupied by keeping our existing trails in shape. Instead, we hold a competitive bid process to find a contractor to do the job. Last fall, seven professional trail builders came to Revelstoke to walk through the woods and look at the line for the Boulder climb trail. Five presented bids, which were judged on a combination of price, past experience with similar trails, and bid quality. Robson Design Build, who’s responsible for building a good chunk of the Valemount Bike Park and many other trails around B.C., was selected to build the Boulder climb trail.

There are still a few steps left before they start digging dirt. We must conduct a bird nest survey to ensure we don’t disturb any nesting birds along the trail corridor. We then have to clear the trail corridor and fall any danger trees. Finally, Robson will come in with its crew and get to work. Actual construction is expected to take five weeks, but it could take longer to have it inspected, address any issues, and, finally, be approved and opened by our Rec Officer.

We’re hoping to have the Boulder climb trail ready to roll this summer, but keep an eye on our newsletter and social media channels for the exact opening. If you’d like to support more sustainable trail work in Revelstoke, join the RCA. For only $40 for adults and $15 for youth, you can help ensure the preservation and growth of our world-class network of trails.

Above Right: Representatives from trail building companies do a site visit of the planned Boulder climb trail in 2022. Photo: Alex Cooper

Above Left: The layout of the planned Boulder climb trail, which is scheduled to be completed in phases starting this year. Photo: Alex Cooper

RVAC MAY EXHIBIT FOCUSES ON NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

By

REVY RE-FEST AIMS TO GATHER COMMUNITY AROUND THE FOUR R’S: REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE, REPURPOSE

By

The Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre will unveil its newest exhibition on May 4, featuring new solo exhibitions by local artists Jacqueline Palmer, Isaac Becker and Sarah Hicks, and the side gallery will feature an exhibit from Portland, Oregon-based documentary photographer Robbie McClaran.

The opening event starts with the first viewing from 2–5 p.m. and then will move into the more social portion of the evening with live music and refreshments from 5–8 p.m.

Jacqueline Palmer’s Ghost of the Caribou exhibit is a tribute to the mountain caribou and the ancient forest of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest in the vicinity of Revelstoke.

Robbie McClaran has been photographing along the entire 1,250-mile length of the Columbia River, from its source in British Columbia to its confluence with the Pacific Ocean, working with an antique eight-by-ten, large format camera. The resulting images form the exhibit, The Great River of the West.

For Isaac Becker, a large part of the creative process is attempting to disconnect the mental side of it with the organic, spontaneous side. The paintings of his exhibit Patterns and Glyphs are a blend of both sides. He will also present the exhibit, Jailhouse Exhbition featuring Work Table Tapestries.

In her exhibit, Cosmos Out Of Chaos, artist Sarah Hicks hopes that by bringing these landscapes to your home, it can help you build a connection to the place in your own unique way.

This exhibition runs from May 4–28 at the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre.

A brand-new festival, or rather a Revy Re-Fest, will put upcycling and the environment front and centre in Revelstoke later this month.

According to information on the Revy Re-fest website, Leah Evans, a professional skier, has been building the framework for the event “while undertaking her own upcycling pursuits.” Patagonia, who sponsors Evans “loved the concept, and decided to make this event a reality.” Other organizations supporting the event are the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, Community Connections, and Tourism Revelstoke

The goal of the re-fest is to gather the community around the Four R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Repurpose.

The event kicks off on Saturday, May 27 at 8 a.m. with re-craft, an upcycled fair in downtown Revelstoke. Other events planned for Saturday also take place downtown and include a repair café where people can get help fixing small things, Patagonia’s WornWear crew can show you how to make handy repairs, and there is even an activity tent with speakers and even a “Tinkerbell” kids repair workshop. A CSRD Community Trunk Sale is planned at the Centennial Park lower lots. There’s also a performance by A Million Dollars in Pennies taking place at the Sugar Shack in the evening.

The fun continues on Sunday, May 28 with a book swap, bike swap and clothing swap at the Revelstoke Community Centre. There will also be workshops on how to naturally dye clothing, how to create clothing stamps, more repair workshops, more speakers and a live music performance with upcycled instruments. The folks from WornWear – Patagonia’s program for trading in buying and repairing gear -- will be back again.

For the full event itinerary and location details visit re-fest.com.

IT'S PATIO SEASON

Come

It s light and crisp with an underlying hop bitterness! Our second year collab with Skookum Bike & Ski, where part of the proceeds goes to Revelstoke Cycling Association

Where do you find our patio?

2155 Oak Drive, Revelstoke

CARIBOU, COLUMBIA RIVER AND LANDSCAPE IMAGERY FEATURED IN MAY EXHIBIT AT LOCAL ART GALLERY REVELSTOKE VISUAL ARTS CENTRE.

contributed/Revelstoke Mountaineer staff

Jacqueline Palmer’s Ghost of the Caribou exhibit is a tribute to the mountain caribou and the ancient forest of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest.

Photo: Handout

Revelstoke Mountaineer staff

In an unrelated but also environment focused-event, participants in the April 22 Trashion Show hosted by Birch & Lace parade down Mackenzie Avenue. Photo: Aaron Orlando/ Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

DANCE AND SING ALONG THIS MONTH AT RPAC

By Revelstoke Mountaineer staff

Events at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre this month include a performance of Disney songs by the Revelstoke Community & Kids Choirs, and a dance movie day featuring the film Uprooted.

The Revelstoke Community Choir and Revelstoke Kids Choir present Disney in Song with special guest Holly Bhattacharya on Monday, May 1 at 6:30 p.m. The Revelstoke Community Choir is a group with a diverse background of musical experience. Come listen to them perform along with the Revelstoke Kids Choir and enjoy a night of music that just might have you singing along. Admission for this event is $15.

Dance Movie Day: Uprooted takes place on Saturday, May 13 at 2 p.m. Uprooted is a feature-length documentary film celebrating the African history, lineage, and future progressions of jazz dance. The cast includes leading industry-experts, award-winning choreographers, and legendary performers. The film includes special appearances with Debbie Allen, George Faison, Chita Rivera, Camille A. Brown and Thomas F. DeFrantz. It showcases the works of the Nicholas Brothers, Pepsi Bethel, Jack Cole, Katherine Dunham, Bob Fosse and Gene Kelly. The film goes back to the roots of jazz dance in Africa and follows its evolution through every decade and genre, while also exploring and commenting on political and social influences and addressing the topics of appropriation, racism, socialism and sexism. The film is free to attend but a donation for the Community Connections Food Bank (cash or a non-perishable food item) is suggested.

For tickets and more information on the Disney in Song performance by the Revelstoke Community & Kids Choirs and Dance Movie Day: Uprooted visit artsrevelstoke.com.

More than seven years after the declaration of a public-health emergency, the toxic, unregulated drug supply continues to claim the lives of British Columbians in record numbers, according to preliminary reporting released by the BC Coroners Service.

"On April 14, we once again observed the anniversary of the longest public-health emergency in our province's history," said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner. "Since the emergency was first declared, more than 11,000 people have lost their lives due to the unregulated drug supply. This is a crisis of incomprehensible scale, and I extend my deepest condolences to everyone who has experienced the loss of someone they loved."

At least 374 deaths believed to be caused by toxic drugs were reported to the BC Coroners Service in February (177) and March (197), which equates to an average of 6.4 lives lost per day. The 596 lives lost between January and March is the second-highest total ever recorded in the first three months of a calendar year, behind only 2022 (599 lives lost). The total number of deaths equates to a province-wide death rate of 44.1 deaths per 100,000 population.

The reporting also reflects that the total number of deaths due to toxic drugs in 2022 has been increased to 2,314, making that year the deadliest year on record. Unregulated drug toxicity continues to be the leading cause of unnatural death in British Columbia, accounting for more deaths than homicides, suicides, motor vehicle incidents, drownings and fire-related deaths combined.

At least 11,807 deaths have been caused by unregulated drugs since the public-health emergency was first declared in April 2016. There continues to be no evidence that prescribed safe supply is contributing to illicit drug deaths.

In 2023, 71% of those dying were age 30 to 59, and 77% were male.

THE REVELSTOKE COMMUNITY & KIDS CHOIRS KICK OFF MAY’S EVENTS WITH A PERFORMANCE OF DISNEY SONGS

A pharmacist with a take home naloxone kit. Photo: B.C. government image

Uprooted is a feature-length documentary film celebrating the African history, lineage, and future progressions of jazz dance. It plays at RPAC on May 13.

Photo: Handout

Animated experiences

REVELSTOKE MULTIMEDIA ARTIST TAYLOR SANDELL BLENDS DIGITAL AND TRADITIONAL FINE ARTS INTO A BUDDING ONLINE AND LOCALLY BASED ARTS CAREER

By Aaron Orlando

Revelstoke artist Taylor Sandell is building a multimedia career that continues to expand into new spaces and directions.

Sandell graduated from the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane with a BFA degree, majoring in animation. She worked in the industry in Brisbane before moving to work in animation in Vancouver. She says she grew a bit tired of the production grind and got distracted going on adventures, eventually opting for a more varied career based in Revelstoke that has included teaching at local schools and the Idea Factory, as well as private lessons. The new societal acceptance of remote work helped convince her to take the plunge and relocate to Revelstoke permanently.

“I like the freedom of being more freelance," she says.

She's "one of or the only animator in town" and has taught classes and participated in local projects, as well as online courses.

She is current the Program Director and Gallery Administrator at the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, a gallery where she's displayed many works over the years at local exhibits, including traditional works like collages and prints.

For the past two LUNA festivals, Sandell has created projection mapping exhibits, which use massive projectors to paint buildings with animated displays she creates. In 2021, she painted the back of the Legends 'n' Heroes building.

Last year in 2022, her exhibit Confluence was painted onto the front of Revelstoke City Hall. The exhibit featured images from Revelstoke history and reflected on demographic change in the community and the challenging contemporary context of the COVID pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the ongoing climate crisis. The collage and liquid motion style display paid homage to the many groups who make up the community of Revelstoke, both past and present.

Clockwise from above: 1. Confluence was a projection mapping exhibit for LUNA 2022 that explored the local history of Revelstoke. 2. In 2021, Sandell's first local projection mapping project painted the back wall of Legends 'n' Heroes. 3. 'Homesick' is an acrylic work that features native Australian flora and fauna. 4. Taylor Sandell pictured at the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre. 5. Variety is a constant in Sandell's work, such as this print titled Foolish Frogs.

6. Sandell stands in front of her projection mapping display for LUNA fest 2021. Photos: Contributed

Photos 1,2,4: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

Photos 3,5,6: Contributed by Taylor Sandell

6

She's continuing her projection mapping work elsewhere, including an upcoming exhibit with the MAPP_MTL festival

This year for LUNA, she's stepping away from projection mapping with a new exhibit, Express Snail Mail. It will feature a letter writing station with prompts. After completing your letter, roller skating messengers will skate around the festival delivering the letters.

On May 27-28, she'll be participating as an artist in Re-Fest, a new one-day event focused on recycling clothing. She'll be creating lino-cut stamps specific to Revelstoke and combining them with fabric inks to help revamp clothing with new styles.

A new direction in an already varied career is experimentation with augmented reality using technology that blends classical and digital works using new digital tools such as the Artivive app, which adds digital elements to real-world arts via an interactive app that scans the work and adds to it.

In a short time here in Revelstoke, Sandell has made an impact with a varied and ever-expanding oeuvre of creative works that span genres and defy easy categorization, making her career an exiting

REVELSTOKE CRICKET REVIVAL

THE REVELSTOKE CRICKET CLUB IS BOWLING TOWARD A NEW FUTURE

By Jill Macdonald.

The Revelstoke Cricket Club is officially on its way to resurrecting our city’s participation in league cricket. The club recently received its 'Certificate of Incorporation' from the BC Registry, marking it as an officially recognized sports club in Revelstoke and B.C. Next steps include overcoming the challenges of where to play, a challenge also experienced by pickle ball groups. It appears that participation in community-minded team sports is on the rise.

Club co-director Matt Bramall attributes renewed interest in the sport to new arrivals in our city. “Without question the resurgence is due to the influx of immigration from commonwealth countries. Pre-WWII, cricket was one of the most popular sports in Canada. There were teams all across the Okanagan, from Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna and Kamloops.” Currently, however, only two viable pitches still exist where an actual match can be played and those are in Kamloops and Kelowna.

Cricket is colourful, varied and at its core a community-driven game that provides entertainment and social cohesion. Says Bramall, who is from the UK, “Culture plays a huge part in the game, the beauty of that being it is incredibly diverse, taking on different forms depending on where you are from and the type of cricket played. For example, the three directors (of our club) are from India, New Zealand and England. So, it's done a little differently in each place.”

The game is played between two teams of eleven and two umpires. One team goes to bat first, with two batters in at any given time, until everyone is out. The team batting first tries to put in as many runs as possible. Similar to baseball, the fielding tries to prevent runs from being scored. For equipment, the two batsmen each require a helmet, padded gloves and leg guards (or pads), a box (protection for vital parts), plus a bat. The team that fields will have 9 in the field, one bowler and one wicket keeper. The bowler uses as 5½ ounce leather ball to bowl (hence all the pads) and the keeper will wear leg guards, webbed

gloves and a helmet. A bowler bowls 6 balls in a row. This is called an over. At the end of an over, a new bowler steps in.

As far as matches go, cricket has evolved from its purist traditions to embrace weekend matches and the casual style of play suited to today’s culture. A test match is the traditional format and takes five days to complete. Test matches are mostly played at the international level. One day international matches set a limit of 50 overs per side in order to meet the time deadline. t20 is the format used for most community matches. This version is a twenty overs a side game, with some variations.

In 2008, t20 cricket was franchised by professional teams, most notably the Indian Premier League, which in 2017 had a viewership of 400 million. That’s for just one competition that lasts under two months.

The challenge for cricket participants in Revelstoke is not finding new members. It is finding an appropriate playing facility with a 22-yard strip, either curated or artificial, in the centre of a circular field. Speaking for the club, Bramall says, “Last summer, we took a team from Revelstoke down to Kelowna and played the first match in 84 years and from that we were very eager to find

Members of the Revelstoke Cricket Club from left: Nagender Kanwar, Prajeesh Shammy, Uday Moore, Matthew Bramall, Avin Muraith, Advine Shaijan, Manpreet Singh, Jagwinder Samra, and Gurpreet Singh.

Photo: Revelstoke Cricket Club

Opening of the CPR Cricket Pavillion in 1921. The pavilion was in the Recreation Grounds, which is now the playing fields at the north end of the current Queen Elizabeth Park.

Photo courtesy of Revelstoke Museum and Archives

out how we could get a pitch ourselves. Because we don't have a pitch we can't enter a league, host friendlies or promote the sports locally as we would want to and we want that to change.”

The club is focused on building its finances and looking to establish partnerships that can support their long-term visions of building a pitch. The establishment of a facility raises the public profile of the sport, increasing interest. It also allows them to host other teams from the Okanagan/Shuswap region, expanding the profile of cricket in Revelstoke.

Quoting organizer Prajeesh Shammy: “We started playing cricket in Revelstoke in 2016 with fewer than five players, and now the community has more than 25 players who wish to play here. Additionally, many children and adults have approached us to learn the game and receive training from us. All that we are asking to our city is a designated play ground. Cricket is more than a game for us, it’s a passion that runs through our veins. There is nothing more exhilarating than stepping onto the field, feeling the sun on our backs, and hearing the sound of leather hitting willow. We love playing cricket and it’s a joy that we can’t imagine living without.”

Revelstoke Cricket Club is registered as a non-profit organization. Currently they have 17 members and Bramall, Shammy and Daniel Doughty as codirectors. To obtain annual insurance and resource support, they need to apply for membership with BC Cricket, the provincial association body. Following that, the next step is to engage with the City of Revelstoke about available space and the opportunity to develop a pitch.

Therein lies the sticky wicket. Room to play a sport that lay dormant for almost 90 years. Times have changed and they are changing again. The infusion of new residents broadens our horizons in many ways. It presents an opportunity to evaluate existing land uses and respond to the need for new ideas and enthusiastic groups. Bramall speaks for all the members when he says, “We will do the work and raise the funds. We just need the space.”

Summer is approaching. The team is getting in playing shape. They confirmed their participation in a match Sunday, June 18, in Kelowna. Supporters are most welcome.

As Doughty says, “It is exciting to see cricket coming back into Revelstoke and quickly growing in the BC interior. Cricket is a popular game within other commonwealth countries, and with Revelstoke being a popular destination for those coming for a working holiday, it’s nice to be able to provide a bit of familiarity for them to get involved in a sport they already know with like minded people. It also allows local Canadians to learn a new sport and try something they might not have previously had the chance to do.”

Uday Moore bowls to Nagender Kanwar on the field next to the former Mountain View school.

Photo: Revelstoke Cricket Club