Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine October 2024 Issue
Revelstoke's Emergency Services food drive restocks shelves, p · 10.
Shirt Day shows Revelstoke ‘stepping up’ to support, p · 12.
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 more local news visit www.revelstokemountaineer.com
250 571 9525 info@revelstokemountaineer.com
Discourse Community Publishing 213-1130 Sun Peaks Rd, Sun Peaks,B.C. V0E 5N0, Canada
COVER AND INSET PHOTO:
Previous events in town included banner making leading up to the Sept. 30 march. Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
PUBLISHER
Brandi Schier info@revelstokemountaineer.com
PARTNERSHIPS SPECIALIST
Anam Rahman anam@revelstokemountaineer.com
EDITOR
Hollie Ferguson info@revelstokemountaineer.com
REPORTER
Lys Morton lys@revelstokemountaineer.com
EDITORIAL DESIGN/ADVERTISING DESIGN/ WEBSITE
Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com
Introduction
“I’m worried I don’t know enough about voting,” someone recently told me. They’d moved to Canada a couple of years ago and confessed that, while they grew up very aware of the politics in their home country, Canada’s political scene was a blind spot for them.
We at Revelstoke Mountaineer (and across Discourse Community Publishing) want to make voting in this provincial election as accessible as possible. That was our focus the entire time we were putting together the provincial voting guide, our reader survey to see what you would want to ask candidates and our piece where we put those questions to Revelstoke’s MLA candidates.
I’m the nerd that follows a dozen different news podcasts that have been focused on elections around the world this year. 2024 is the “year of the vote.” But not everyone has time to deep dive into every election going on. I still want you to have the information you need to cast your ballot this year. I hope our voting guide and election coverage gives you that assurance, whether you’ve lived in Revelstoke your entire life or are a newly confirmed Canadian citizen.
- Lys Morton, community journalist
10 12 14
19 16
EVENTS
Find out what’s happening in and around Revelstoke this month in the events calendar. Don’t forget to add your community event online at revelstokemountaineer.com.
8
THIS MONTH AT COUNCIL
This month council talked development, heritage properties, ice time and more.
10
REVELSTOKE’S EMERGENCY SERVICES FOOD DRIVE BRINGS IN OVER 200 VOLUNTEERS
Food donations were lower than previous years but financial donations were higher in a showing of community support.
12
ORANGE SHIRT DAY SHOWS
REVELSTOKE ‘STEPPING UP’ TO SUPPORT
Calls for community members to take on organizing events were met, speakers say.
14
REVELSTOKE SENIORS CENTRE INVITES COMMUNITY FOR FALL AND WINTER ACTIVITIES
Memberships are available to anyone over the age of 19 and include activities such as cribbage nights, open mics and community dinners.
15
REVELSTOKE SECONDARY SCHOOL’S TOONIES FOR TERRY RUN KICKS OFF SCHOOL SPIRIT
The sept. 20 run marks the start of the school year, raising over $500 for cancer research.
16
COLUMBIA RIVER TREATY RENEGOTIATION FOCUSED ON FLEXIBILITY, ECOSYSTEM PROTECTIONS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Current agreement-in-principle increases federal, provincial and local control of waterways and water storage impacts.
18
SINIXT CONFEDERACY
ENCOURAGES REVELSTOKE TO ‘KEEP CONNECTING’ ‘That is how we approach our responsibilities to the area,’ Sinixt Confederacy’s Herb Alex says. ‘Including the people of Revelstoke.’
19
YOUR REVELSTOKE B.C. ELECTION GUIDE
What electoral district am I in? Who are the Revelstoke candidates? When is the election again? All the election basics, covered.
20
CANDIDATES ANSWER
REVELSTOKE’S QUESTIONS
Leading up to the 2024 provincial election, Revelstoke Mountaineer asked candidates the questions readers want answers to.
22
GRIZZLIES CORNER
Recaps and updates on all things Revelstoke hockey.
23
PUZZLES
Try your hand at October’s puzzles and check your answers for last month!
OCTOBER 2024 CALENDAR
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 9
ARTISTS SOCIAL
Rumpus Beer Co., 208 First St. East, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
OCTOBER EVENTS
SUNDAY, OCT. 6
FROM CONCEPT TO COLOUR: FOUNDATIONS FOR BOLD DESIGNS
Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Join artist Meg Shaw for this hands-on workshop that goes all the way back to the basics of art. Play with colour, hash out ideas and work with limited pallets to see what creativity it sparks. Open to ages 16 and up, and all skill levels. Registration can be made online or at the gallery. $55 admission includes all materials.
MONDAY, OCT. 7
THE BAD DECISION COMEDY TOUR
Big Eddy Pub, 2108 Big Eddy Rd., 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Comedians Chris Basso, Herbert Henries, Nelson Mayor and Scott Porteous bring their cross-country comedy tour to Revelstoke. Bad decisions are promised to be made. Tickets can be purchased at Big Eddy Liquour Store.
Meet with local artists in this laid-back social aimed to keep spirits high and foster collaboration. Whether you’re a budding artist or well-established, new to Revelstoke or have called it home since birth, connect with other artists in town and make new friends. All ages welcome.
THURSDAY, OCT. 10
OLD MAN LUEDECKE WITH OPENER MAY DAVIS
Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 7:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Two time JUNO award winner Chris Luedecke brings his Old Man Luedecke show to Revelstoke. With some dry humour narrative, foot-stomping banjo playing and guitar ballads, Luedecke is guaranteed to appeal to audiences. Returning to long-time home Revelstoke, May Davis opens.
SATURDAY, OCT. 12
ANCIIENTS AND BISON WITH PHARM AND GURTH
The Last Drop Pub, 299 Connaught Ave., 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Vancouver bands Anciients and Bison bring their Metal show to Revelstoke, with special guests Kelowna’s Pharm and Revelstoke’s Gurth. Tickets available in advance or at the door, ages 19 and up.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 16
BROWN BAG HISTORY - REVELSTOKE MYTHBUSTERS
Revelstoke Museum & Archives, 315 First St. West, 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
A town like Revelstoke is sure to have tall tales and mysterious myths. Bring your lunch to the Revelstoke Museum & Archives for this week’s Brown Bag History event and learn what facts are behind the fiction. Talks held on the second floor, tickets are $10.
THURSDAY, OCT. 17
GALLERY SHOW OPENING
Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Artists Zuzana Riha, Brett Mallon, Xavier Bouchard and Daniel Stewart launch their shows at the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre. Enjoy an evening of live music, drinks and chances to chat with Revelstoke’s art scene while getting a first look at the latest shows. $5 admission at the door.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
BALLET VICTORIA’S FRANKENSTEIN
Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Mary Shelley’s tale of creation and monstrosity comes to the stage with a blend of classical and contemporary music accompanying the story. Pulling inspiration from Corpse Bride and Giselle with the Willies, Ballet Victoria brings this story to life.
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
TO SUNDAY, OCT. 27
RE-IMAGINING LETTING GO - NUMA BREATHWORK
Balu Yoga and Wellness, 418 First St. West
Explore the art of Nüma breathwork in this weekend of three sessions aimed to help you learn skills to release stress and physical tension.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
REVELSTOKE GRIZZLIES VS. 100 MILE HOUSE WRANGLERS
Revelstoke Forum, 1100 Vernon Ave., 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Come cheer on your Revelstoke Grizzlies as they take on the 100 Mile House Wranglers. Give the Grizzlies that home ice advantage and enjoy a family-friendly event. Drinks and concession stands will be available.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
GHOULISH GROOVES DANCE PARTY FUNDRAISER
Regent Hotel, 112 First St. East, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Get your groove on and come support the competitive dancers of The Studio Dance and Wellness with this Halloween themed dance party. Come dressed up in your most ghoulish attire
and enjoy an evening of music from DJ HuwsWho. Pizza available from Village Idiot, prizes for best costume will be awarded and there will be drink specials. Contact The Studio for tickets, ages 19 and up.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26 AND SUNDAY, OCT. 27
GHOST TOWN FRIGHT NIGHT
Three Valley Gap Lake Chateau and Ghost Town, 8903 Trans Canada hwy., 2 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
A day of ghost town adventures, spooky stories, frightful toons and monstrously good treats await you at the third annual Ghost Town Fright Night. All ages are welcome to explore the Three Valley Gap ghost town and enjoy a day of Halloween-themed activities. Costumes encouraged.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 30
BROWN BAG HISTORY - MOUNT BEGBIE SCHOOL
Revelstoke Museum & Archives, 315 First St. West, 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Former Revelstoke teacher Rosemary Tracy leads the sharing of stories from Mount Begbie school. Bring your lunch to the Revelstoke Museum & Archives for this week’s Brown Bag History event and hear all about the school that was a cornerstone in Revelstoke. Talks held on the second floor, tickets are $10.
Old Man Luedecke brings his foot-stomping banjo, ballad guitar and dry humor to the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre Thursday, Oct. 10. Photo provided by Arts Revelstoke
Arts Revelstoke hosts Ballet Victoria’s rendition of Frankenstein Saturday, Oct. 19. Photo provided by Ballet Victoria
Catch the opening of artists Zuzana Riha, Brett Mallon, Xavier Bouchard and Daniel Stewart at Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre Thursday, Oct. 17. Photo provided by Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre
THIS MONTH AT COUNCIL
THIS MONTH COUNCIL TALKED DEVELOPMENT, HERITAGE PROPERTIES, ICE TIME AND MORE
By Lys Morton
Council approves parking reduction for Simpson Street row houses
Developers once again sought a reduction of parking spots and accessible parking stalls, this time for row housing along Simpson Street. Each of the six proposed developments would contain three house units and three secondary suite units, creating 18 housing units and 18 secondary suite units in total. The applicant requested a maximum of 10 parking spaces for the secondary suites and that the requirement for accessible spaces be removed entirely. City staff assessed that the parking pads accompanying the units would still be large enough to accommodate accessible parking if needed by future residents, but would not need to be dedicated as such.
Paul Simon, director of development services explained staff are looking to eliminate the requirement for accessible parking in row housing developments in future bylaw updates. Instead focus would be on requiring accessible parking in apartment-style developments and other communal parking situations.
Coun. Tim Palmer said he was eager to clarify parking agreements, concerned with the amount of time staff and council have spent on parking variances in recent years. Coun. Aaron Orlando proposed an amendment that the developer would need to pay the city cash-in-lieu for the omission of accessible parking, but council voted to reject the amendment.
“I’m not in favour of forcing a developer to pay an outdated cash-in-lieu for [accessible parking] which does zero to do anything for parking,” Coun. Matt Cherry said.
“I am not necessarily in favour of forcing [accessible parking] spaces into private residences,” Coun. Lee Devlin commented. “I absolutely agree they need to be regulated for any public access businesses and such.”
Council voted in favour for the parking requirement amendments with Orlando opposed.
Council to explore increased aquatic centre hours
Revelstoke’s committee of the whole is recommending that council explore increased aquatic centre operating hours and days ahead of the 2025 budget.
“It could be a number of different scenarios depending on staff availability and budget consideration of costs,” Orlando read from the report.
“Personally, I’m excited to see it. I think we, as a community, are aware we have run into challenges with staffing, with lifeguards and such. But staff have been working hard to build back capacity.
Palmer noted that an increase in services and hours would actually be a return to previous levels before 2020 reductions in staff, hours and services.
“The community has been pretty loud and clear that they want [increased] service levels,” Palmer said.
Council voted in favour to explore increased aquatic centre services and hours for the 2025 budget.
Council rejects Heritage Property Tax Exemption for CPR Superintendent House
Heritage revitalization efforts on the 714 Mackenzie Ave. house, historically known as the CPR Superintendent House, was once again the focus of council, this time centering around the City’s Heritage Property Tax Exemption (HPTE) and what timeline the CPR Superintendent House should be exempt from property taxes while restoration is taking place.
The HPTE is intended to support restoration and heritage preservation around Revelstoke, providing a financial incentive for those looking to take on restoration projects by pausing property taxes for a predetermined set of time.
“We want to show our community that we want to preserve heritage,” Mayor Gary Sulz told council. “Offsetting initial work investment is really what these funds would be going to.”
At a previous finance committee meeting, the focus was on how long an exemption to grant, and recommendations were still mixed when the request was brought to council on Sept. 10. Cherry explained that votes were split whether to agree to a two year, five year or 10 year agreement.
Coun. Tim Stapenhurst added the committee debate also focused on whether citizens should be expected to fund the revitalization of a heritage property earmarked for short-term rental (STR) status by losing out on tax revenue.
“I don’t believe that the citizens should be on the hook to pay for or subsidize any revitalization whatsoever when it’s going to be ultimately used not for housing but for short-term accommodations,” Stapenhurst said.
City planner Erica Hartling countered that residents would not be entirely missing out on financial opportunities by giving the owners the tax exemption, pointing out that currently the building is in poor condition and could become a larger cost issue if not restored.
“In the long term, with those preservation works that they’re putting into
Revelstoke city hall. Photo by Lys Morton/ Revelstoke Mountaineer
the building, the city will have increased taxes from it,” Hartling said.
Council voted against the motion of any HPTE term with Cherry and Sulz in favour of the exemption.
Council denies spot-zoning applications
Two 2017 rezoning applications were finally brought to council after being put in cue by a previous council in hopes that upcoming zoning changes could clarify how to address the spot-zoning request. The applications for 802 First St. W., 1287 Lee Rd. and nine other applications were caught up in Revelstoke’s habit of spot-zoning, and efforts streamlining those zoning areas have led to policies such as the current STR and Bed & Breakfasts Policy. That policy now directs staff to reject further spot-zoning for STRs and bed and breakfast applications. Staff came to council with the request that the 802 First St. W. application be denied following the recommendations of the policy.
Council approved the recommendation to deny both applications, with Palmer and Stapenhurst opposing both denials. Council moved that staff explore reimbursement options for both applicants due to the length of time they waited for council decision, and how years of policy changing might have hindered efforts to withdraw the applicants.
Simon noted staff are expected to bring forward a report on STRs to council by October.
Staff prepare Housing Accelerator Fund application
With a Friday, Sept. 13 deadline, Simon requested council give their support to the city’s Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) application.
HAF provides $400 million for municipalities across Canada to accelerate housing development and infrastructure. City councils are required to endorse applications before approval, but can be added after the application is submitted if necessary. Proposals are assessed based on plans already on the table, municipality efforts to densify existing areas, adoption of digital tools to speed along application processes, and work to incentivise additional dwelling units on existing properties. Then funding is provided based on estimated units completed in the HAF-imposed timeframe.
Upcoming projects such as the BC Housing Downey Street property needed to be carefully assessed by staff as to not exceed application limits, and Simon explained staff have been working closely with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation representatives to make sure the city’s application was in the best shape. It’s part of the reason that an application started in July was being submitted so close to the Sept. 13 deadline.
Simon noted that current staff workloads also strained the completion of the application and secondary projects might once again be put on hold in 2025 so staff could focus on meeting HAF deadlines if Revelstoke is approved for the funding.
“Part of the HAF program scoring includes how quickly you can implement initiatives,” Simon said. “If we say we’re not going to implement this stuff until year three, we get one point. If we say we can implement it in year one, we get five points. You will see us prioritizing the HAF initiatives to get complete to make sure we’re living up to our end of the bargain if we are successful with this application.”
Comparable municipalities have previously received between $2.5 million and $4 million from HAF, and Simon noted that current projects proposed in Revelstoke’s HAF application would cost roughly $1.343 million, potentially leaving a large amount of remaining funds to be used in other housing and infrastructure projects for the city.
Council voted unanimously to endorse the application.
Revelstoke
Minor Hockey and Revelstoke Grizzlies request lengthening of season
In an effort to expand available ice time and provide more training opportunities for Revelstoke’s minor hockey teams and the Revelstoke Grizzlies, the two organizations requested an extended start time for the 2025 season. The Grizzlies would commit to being the primary ice user July 2 to Aug. 17 and the Minor Hockey League would be the primary user from Aug. 18 to official opening of the arena ice. The two organizations pitched that this would benefit camp opportunities, skill development and potential visiting teams.
Orlando asked what added service needs that would put on the aging Revelstoke Forum, with summer temperatures putting added strain on cooling systems meant to keep the ice in shape. Laurie Donato, director of parks, recreation and culture explained that staff would come back to council with a report breaking down what additional operating costs, resources and scheduling adjustments would be needed to support the request.
Council unanimously approved staff create a service level review to assess the viability of an extended ice season for the Revelstoke Forum.
TOURISM TALKS CELEBRATING THANKSGIVING BACK
This September marked our fourth year of running the Thanksgiving Back program, continuing its mission of facilitating visitors giving back to our community. With 70 dedicated volunteers and 7 local non-profit organizations participating, this year’s event once again exemplified the heart and spirit of Revelstoke
The first weekend of Thanksgiving Back saw volunteers helping out with LUNA, the Revelstoke Railway Museum and the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club During the second weekend, volunteers assisted the Local Food Initiative, CSISS, the BC Interior Forestry Museum, and the Revelstoke Cycling Association
While we are still awaiting final data on this year's economic impact, past case studies demonstrate just how significant the program has been for our local economy According to a report in 2022, Thanksgiving Back brought in over $50,000 in total community spending This includes $24,500 for program implementation (which directly supported local businesses) and another $25,000 spent by participants during their stay Local accommodations saw $20,000 in direct bookings, and visitors spent an average of $135 per day on additional expenses everything from meals to souvenirs
Beyond the numbers, the program continues to foster community engagement and build strong connections between residents, businesses, and visitors alike Stay tuned for more insights on how this year's efforts have impacted Revelstoke as we await updated statistics!
To learn more, visit https://seerevelstoke com/thanksgiving-back/
Photo | James Buckle (Thanksgiving Back 2023)
REVELSTOKE’S EMERGENCY SERVICES FOOD DRIVE BRINGS IN OVER 200 VOLUNTEERS
FOOD DONATIONS WERE LOWER THAN PREVIOUS YEARS, BUT FINANCIAL DONATIONS WERE HIGHER IN A SHOWING OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT.
By Lys Morton
It was quiet in Revelstoke’s neighborhoods the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 18. Sirens cut through the community sounds of yard work, kids playing and dogs barking to signal Community Connections Revelstoke Society’s (CCRS) 2024 Emergency Services Food Drive event. Volunteers spread out throughout town to knock at doors with maps in hand and boxes loaded in the back of vehicles to collect food and monetary donations in an evening focused on restocking Revelstoke’s food bank shelves.
“We had 240 volunteers sign up for this,” Jenna Thomsen, CCRS’ community food bank manager told Revelstoke Mountaineer. “7,332 pounds of food were donated, 747 pounds of that was expired food we can’t give out. Then we had $5,791 raised that night in monetary donations.”
It’s a year that both under and over performed compared to other years. 2023’s Emergency Services Food Drive event brought in over 9,100 pounds of food, 450 pounds of which was expired and unusable. Monetary donations in last year's drive of $6,400 was beaten by this year’s final total of $13,907, with donations from the community after the food drive and $5,000 donated by Flying Moose Chalet.
Teams ranged in size from the Revelstoke Men’s Shed team of three to Revelstoke Grizzlies hockey team showing up and breaking up into multiple groups. Every team partnered up with one of the various local emergency response groups, including Revelstoke Fire Rescue Services and BC Ambulance Service. The Mountaineer teamed up to participate in the drive.
Once routes were complete, volunteers headed
back to unload donations at the CCRS outreach centre. Then the work really began, with teams of seasoned volunteers and a couple of new faces sorting through all the donations in three stages. First checking dates and for damage, sorting items by best before dates. Items on the cusp of their expiration date were taken right to the storage room to ready for the next day.
“Anything in that best before year range, we’ll put it at the front and try to get it out to clients as fast as possible,” food bank staff explained to newer volunteers.
Items older than September 2023 are given to CCRS’ Austin Luciow, neighborhood kitchen manager, to assess what can safely be used in meal programs offered through the kitchen, such as the ready-to-eat meals for the community.
“I’m going to look to see if there are any farms that can take the rest,” Thomsen explained. “Farms across Canada will partner with food banks to feed their pigs, [we will] see if anyone local is able to do that. Unfortunately, a lot of this will be thrown out.”
Even if some of the 747 pounds of expired food that can’t be used by CCRS finds uses in other areas, that is still over 700 pounds of food that was picked up, sorted and momentarily stored but won’t be used by the core group the 2024 Emergency Services Food Drive is trying to support; the nearly 800 households that access Revelstoke’s food bank. It’s a number Thomsen expects to grow as the winter months increase Revelstoke’s population.
“I processed 20 new applicants just this week,” she said.
Over 6,500 pounds of usable food for clients to access through the food bank might sound like a lot, and the pallets of packed boxes refilling the
storeroom’s empty shelves is a visual of Revelstoke answering the call this food drive season. Still, Thomsen expects that will all be gone within the next couple of months, based on current usage of the food bank. That’s where financial donations can help, giving CCRS the ability to purchase in bulk from grocery stores and build shelf supply back up.
“It’s amazing the variety of food we get from the drives,” Laura Larsson, CCRS social meals facilitator and drop-in assistant told Revelstoke Mountaineer. That variety can help clients with food allergies or dietary restrictions when items bulk purchased by CCRS can’t fit those parameters. It can also give some choice amongst the sea of items such as canned black beans. “It’s kind of neat to see what folks around town are buying.”
Sorting through donations kept volunteers around well into the evening, calls for runners and requests to help track down a sometimes elusive best before date cutting through the general chatter and background music. From time-to-time an exceptionally old date would be loudly shouted out, with volunteers keeping track of the oldest donated item. It’s a competition no one wants to win, but this year went to a can of condensed vegetable soup, dated Feb. 22, 2012.
Once the last box of donations was sorted and stashed in the correct spot, volunteers worked to strip down the collection of tents, tables, string lights, flood lights and other items spread out behind CCRS’ outreach building as the donation sorting zone. Garbage was collected, rides were offered and comments abound about what teams and neighborhoods could make a claim for “the best” if that ever became a competition in future food bank runs.
Volunteers gather in front of emergency vehicles for the 2024 Emergency Service Food Drive.
Photo by Laurie Apeceche/Itsas Mendia
ORANGE SHIRT DAY SHOWS REVELSTOKE ‘STEPPING UP’ TO SUPPORT
CALLS
FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO TAKE ON ORGANIZING EVENTS WERE MET, SPEAKERS SAY.
By Lys Morton
Editor’s note: As a member of Discourse Community Publishing, Revelstoke Mountaineer uses quotation marks around the word “school” because the Truth and Reconciliation Commission found residential “schools” were “an education system in name only for much of its existence.” The Indian Residential School Survivors Society crisis line is available any time at 1-800-7210066. Please reach out if you need support.
Last year’s Orange Shirt Day march and gathering included a call organizers Michelle Cole and
Marlene Krug that non-Indigenous community members needed to take on the labour of organizing future Truth and Reconciliation Day events and support the Indigenous Friendship Society of Revelstoke in their work. This year’s Orange Shirt Day march showed how the community answered the call, Krug told an audience of over 100 participants during the Sept. 30 march through Revelstoke’s downtown.
“It’s heartwarming. It’s amazing that other people stepped up to do the work.”
This year’s event was organized by Revelstoke Truth and Reconciliation Group, a group of community members who connected after hearing the calls for Revelstoke to take on the organizing of future Orange Shirt Day events. Earning financial aid from the Neighbourhood Small Grants program and Columbia Basin Trust funds for food costs and honorariums for Indigenous speakers, organizers followed the lead of last year’s event in the route of the march, and in the gathering held at Centennial Parks’ Worker’s Memorial. Their organizing also included events held at the Revelstoke library, through Stoke FM and the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre as learning opportunities leading up to Monday, Sept. 30.
“The purpose of our group came about to relieve the responsibility of the Indigenous community from needing to organize events for Truth and Reconciliation Day,” organizer Jamie Kraus told Revelstoke Mountaineer. “We wanted to have established profits in town hold programming that aligned with the goals of Truth and Reconciliation leading up to Sept. 30,” referring to businesses and organizations often found supporting other events throughout the year.
While organizations like the Revelstoke library were able to host events such as a screening of WaaPake (Tomorrow) and the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre hosting craft nights for banners and posters used during the march, Kraus noted that there were fewer organizations that stepped up to support than expected, and that some secondary events were lost in lack of communication.
“We were hoping for a more collaborative community effort,” Kraus said. “I think one event done well instead of a smattering of smaller events is maybe better for our community.”
Once marchers made their way to the Worker’s Memorial, organizers and Indigenous Friendship Society of Revelstoke representatives shared stories, words centered in the land around Revelstoke and songs for the group. A focus was on thanking the land and rebuilding a connection with it, something Krug and speaker Laura Stovel both noted have been
Over 100 participants marched from Revelstoke’s downtown to Centennial Park in this year’s Orange Shirt Day march.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
After the march, Marlene Krug, Aboriginal Education program teacher for School District 19 read the Syilx Okanagan legend for how food was given to people. Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
lost over the years and noted as particularly important in a community that cherishes outdoor activities as much as Revelstokians.
“It’s the land that gives us that opportunity,” Krug said, mentioning the rivers, mountains and trails that many use throughout the years.
Community Connections Revelstoke Society provided food, offering a vegetarian stew along with various styles of bannock. Still, organizers Kraus and Alexis Aikenhead noted that the City of Revelstoke could have supported the event more alongside the permits that were provided for the day.
“The City of Revelstoke should be giving this day as much time, money and effort as Canada day,” Kraus said.
“I do feel the city and Tourism Revelstoke could have more of a role, and lead by example in contributing financially or otherwise towards the Sinixt and honoring the original place names with signage and other information,” Aikenhead said. “[Revelstoke] had such a large budget in recent years for 'wayfinding' signs and I found it was a missed opportunity to not include any Indigenous names or history.”
The revitalization of language, story and song was also a call to action at this year’s Orange Shirt Day march.
Supporting that revitalization could be a goal for the city with the inclusion of Sinixt words on city signage, Kraus said.
“The City of Revelstoke could also begin the process of assigning a portion of our tax base to a designated fund assigned to helping the Sinixt, who were forcibly removed from their homes, here in Revelstoke.”
Orange Shirt Day events ended with a drum circle and smudge, with speakers once again reminding folks to learn about the history of residential “schools” but also work to reconnect with the nations and teachings that have been long connected to the region.
The 2024 Orange Shirt Day march ended at the Workers Memorial, where participants took in food and conversation.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
Orange Shirt Day participants gathered for a drum circle and songs after the march and lunch.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
REVELSTOKE SENIORS CENTRE INVITES COMMUNITY FOR FALL AND WINTER ACTIVITIES
MEMBERSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO ANYONE OVER THE AGE OF 19 AND INCLUDE ACTIVITIES SUCH AS CRIBBAGE NIGHTS, OPEN MICS AND COMMUNITY DINNERS.
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Senior Centre (RSC) is gearing up for a fall and winter line-up of activities for anyone over the age of 19. Whether you’re looking for a night around the billiards table, a chance to try line dancing, some darts competitions or more, the Revelstoke Senior Citizens' Association (RSCA) is inviting anyone of legal age in the community to join in.
“We're trying to make it so that this facility gets used a lot more than it presently does,” Lori Anderson, RSC office manager told Revelstoke Mountaineer. “It's a beautiful building. If we can just get people away from the thought that this is only used by seniors.”
The senior part of Revelstoke Senior Centre and RSCA relates more to who can vote and sit on boards, Dale Morehouse, RSCA president told the Mountaineer. In a recent update of bylaws, that goal for the centre to act as a multigenerational facility was affirmed. The allowance of those 19 and up to join in on all activities offered was in the
association's original bylaws and members agreed to not only keep it, but make it more prominent.
“We’ve really tried to maintain that [and] keep this place as open as possible,” Morehouse explained. Memberships are $15 annually and give members access to any of the activities taking place along with the centre’s library, board game collection, computer room and more.
The RSC is home to dart boards that originally lined the walls of the Revelstoke Legion. Shortly after the facility was temporarily shuttered, the boards found themselves at the senior centre in hopes to keep folks using them. It’s been a success so far, and darts now has dedicated Monday and Friday spots on the events calendar. Other weekly activities available for members include genealogy classes, bridge games, bingo events and drop-in dance times.
“That one isn’t a lesson, it’s just a chance to put on some good music and get some movement in,” Anderson said. Line dancing classes are available,
and the RSCA is always open to hosting new events if community members are able to facilitate it. The focus on the drop-in dance times are just to create an easy and fun way to increase mobility and movement.
Open mic sessions will once again be running on the first Saturday of every month, with performers given a ten minute set for covers, original songs and more.
“We’re excited to bring that live music opportunity to folks, whether you’re wanting to perform or just want to enjoy some live music,” Anderson said.
The hall space, along with its commercial kitchen is available to rent and has hosted birthday parties, local organizations needing a larger space to celebrate and community dinners. The hall is wheelchair accessible, making it one of the few larger venues in Revelstoke that can claim that. It’s a fact both Anderson and Morehouse are aware of.
“This facility has so much potential,” Morehouse said. “We want the community to know it’s available for folks to use [and] we work to keep the rental rates low so more can access it.”
Even with an October schedule that has nearly every day hosting an event, the RSC is always open to hosting more events if residents are able to facilitate and organize them. Whether more dedicated game nights, exercise classes, education sessions or others, Anderson said the RSCA is always open to hearing ideas.
You can contact the RSCA about memberships, hosting events and more at revelstokeseniors603@ gmail.com or call (250) 837-9456.
Volunteers with Revelstoke Seniors Centre support a range of activities at the centre and throughout the community. Photo provided by Revelstoke Seniors Centre
REVELSTOKE SECONDARY SCHOOL’S TOONIES FOR TERRY RUN KICKS OFF SCHOOL SPIRIT
THE SEPT. 20 RUN MARKS THE START OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, RAISING OVER $500 FOR CANCER RESEARCH.
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Secondary School (RSS) set the tone for this year’s school spirit with their Toonies for Terry Fox run Friday, Sept. 20, raising over $500 for The Terry Fox Foundation and cancer research. Students and staff donated cash in the days leading up to the event and participants walked, rolled and ran the Illecillewaet Greenbelt walkway, donning red shirts donated by RSS’ Parent Advisory Council. The fundraiser and run was organized by the RSS Student Leadership program, a group of students and staff who have taken on the planning of the Toonies for Terry run for the last three years.
“As soon as we get into leadership [program] meetings it’s Terry Fox run right away,” leadership program member Kimberly Poirier told Revelstoke Mountaineer. “We have half a month to plan it out along with classes taking place.”
The run is one of the first major events for the school year and helps introduce students to the leadership program which takes new members throughout the year, leadership program member Andy Nguyen told Revelstoke Mountaineer. He joined the program after 2023’s Terry Fox run and has school connections as his focus for this year.
“We're hoping to build a better school spirit and connect the students more with community members,” Nguyen said.
Terry was only 19 when first diagnosed with cancer, making his story relatable for Canadian high schoolers, leadership program member Paxkal Carib Consuegra Higgins told the Mountaineer. For a generation born decades after Terry’s passing, his status as a Canadian hero still stands. RSS’ Toonies for Terry Fox run started with an assembly where Paxkal shared with peers the meaning behind Terry’s legacy, focusing on his passion for sports and the diagnosis and surgery
threatening that passion.
“Can you imagine how much it would really mean,” Paxkal asked, explaining the effects losing the ability to achieve your passion could have on someone. “You just don't think about it in your days.”
Keeping students at the centre of the Toonies for Terry Fox run is vital to engaging them with the story, leadership program teacher Giselle Trepanier said.
“I think that speech alone, when it's coming from a peer to a peer, really makes an impact. I think that was one of the best things to kick off the Terry Fox run this year. Then you see the kids hit the door and feel like they have a cause.”
The RSS Student Leadership program initially started as a high school opportunity. Recently the program has accepted Grade Nine students, creating a larger body of students eager to work not only on the Toonies for Terry event, but other initiatives throughout the school. It’s helped the program overcome previous struggles of not having the human resources to carry out events such as school dances, bake sales and more.
“So far, the Grade Nines have been great,” Paxkal said. “They've just been really upbeat, very happy to help. I'm excited for that.”
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Participants of the Toonies for Terry run each received a red shirt marking the event, donated by the Parent Advisory Council. Photo by Giselle Trepanier/Revelstoke Secondary School
COLUMBIA RIVER TREATY
RENEGOTIATION FOCUSED ON FLEXIBILITY, ECOSYSTEM PROTECTIONS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
CURRENT AGREEMENT-IN-PRINCIPLE INCREASES FEDERAL, PROVINCIAL AND LOCAL CONTROL OF WATERWAYS AND WATER STORAGE IMPACTS.
By Lys Morton
The Columbia River Treaty (CRT) is set for renegotiation after Canada and the United States reached an agreement-in-principle (AIP) on July 11. Since then the government of British Columbia has been taking critiques, concerns and questions from residents around B.C. in an effort to bring the most to the table during renegotiation talks.
During a Sept. 20 live-streamed information session with over 100 participants, Brooke McMurchy, policy advisor for the CRT, Stephen Gluck, Canada’s lead negotiator and Kathy Eichenberger, B.C.’s lead on the Canadian negotiation delegation updated viewers on the current AIP and what could be seen going forward.
Talks to renegotiate the treaty began in May 2018 with federal, provincial and First Nations representation making up the Canadian negotiation team.
The Columbia River Treaty
Created partially in response to the 1948 Columbia River flood that destroyed the city of Vanport, Ore., the CRT provided a measure of flood mitigation and power creation for both sides of the border.
Signed in 1961 and ratified in 1964, it initiated the building of four major dams along the Columbia River; Canada’s Duncan, Hugh L. Keenleyside and Mica dams and the United States’ Libby Dam. More dams have since been built to harness the hydroelectric capabilities of the Columbia River.
Over 110,000 hectares of Canadian ecosystems, communities, burial sites and cultural spots along the Columbia River have been flooded by the reservoirs formed by the CRT. Continued mitigation of that loss has been a focus for various interim agreements since the treaty was signed, and Gluck said collaboration with First Nations has made the negotiation team “stronger and better informed.”
“We are working towards our commitment to seek free, prior-informed consent with Indigenous nations on the modernized CRT,” Gluck said.
The CRT and Indigenous collaboration
Ktunaxa, Secwepemc and Sylix Okanagan representatives have been included at all main table conversations for the future renegotiation of the CRT. During three 2023 interim agreements, the nations secured five per cent of the revenue from sales of Canada's share of downstream power generation.
However, Indigenous voices from the Sinixt
Confederacy have been lost, Herb Alex, senior policy analyst with Sinixt Confederacy told Revelstoke Mountaineer.
The nation, which operates as part of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation in Washington and out of Nelson, B.C., has frequently found themselves cut out of decisions and agreements made about their homelands.
In multiple land acknowledgements during the Sept. 20 information session, Sinixt Confederacy and peoples were not included.
Sinixt homeland reaches from north of Mica Creek, around Kinbasket Lake to south of Kettle Falls, Wash. It stretches as far east as the Kettle River drainage and west to the edge of Kootenay Lake. The Columbia River anchors the region and is a key relation to the area for Sinixt members.
This region includes CRT dams Mica Creek and Keenleyside. It also impacts Sinixt cultural practices. One in particular, the annual Sx̌ʷnítk Canoe Journey, sees Sinixt members and allies traveling from north of Revelstoke down to Kettle Falls for a Salmon Ceremony that goes back generations.
Sinixt peoples were declared extinct in Canada in 1956 after many Sinixt members were forced to the Washington State Colville reservation. A 2021 Supreme Court of Canada ruling finally admitted to Canada’s wrong-doing and acknowledged the Sinixt peoples' continued existence and connection to lands throughout B.C., and along the Columbia River. Efforts to reestablish community in Canada have been a bureaucratic challenge even though there has been a continued Sinixt presence in the region.
Revelstoke Mountaineer reached out to Brooke McMurchy, Geoff Gosson and the CRT team for comment regarding the omission of Sinixt peoples within the land acknowledgements and Sinixt Confederacy in treaty talks. No comments were provided by publication. Revelstoke Mountaineer submitted a question for the Sept. 20 information session regarding Sinixt Confederacy’s exclusion from previous and current treaty talks, but the question was not brought up during the information session.
“I hope that the three nations that were involved [in previous negotiations] stuck to their values,” Alex said when asked what impacts Sinixt Confederacy’s omission from the CRT has had. “All I can do is pray that they got it right, because we were excluded.”
The Columbia River, the main waterway that cuts through Revelstoke, could soon see some different flow levels as the Columbia River Treaty is up for renegotiation.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
Operational flexibility, ecosystem protection and cultural values under the CRT
Throughout renegotiations, Canada has focused on increased operational flexibility for the Canadian dams. Other priorities include ensuring monetary benefits received from the treaty stay within B.C., updating pre-planned flood risk management regimes from the United States and further power coordinations related to energy created by dams along the Columbia River.
Future operational flexibility could improve situations for ecosystems along the river and culture practices throughout the region.
“This is something we heard right from the beginning of the treaty review process in Canada,” Gluck explained. “Knowing the negative impacts faced in the basin over the term of the treaty, we committed to getting this flexibility.”
Treaty negotiations will also include a “transboundary body” focused on supporting ecosystem benefits, Indigenous cultural values, adaptive management and efforts to continually reintroduce salmon and other anadromous fish into the waterway.
“Over the past decade… we heard over and over again that people felt the treaty put too much emphasis on power generation and flood risk management, and not enough on environmental and social interests,” Eichenberger told viewers at the information session. “Today we have an AIP that shifts that balance.”
“We still have lots of work to do with Canada and B.C. to start addressing the past and ongoing impacts to our lands, waters and people,” Chief Keith Crow, CRT lead for the Syilx Okanagan Nation Chiefs Executive Council said in a press release. “But I now have real hope that one day, as
a result of our efforts, I will see my grandchildren and other future generations exercising their rights harvesting n̓ty̓tyix (salmon) in the nxw̌ ntkwitkw (Upper Columbia region).”
Conservation organizations are also calling for stronger ecological protections along the Columbia River, saying treaty renegotiations are the time to acknowledge how previous treaty measures have impacted ecosystems along the Columbia River.
“The negotiated AIP provides a solid opportunity for improving ecosystem function within the Upper Columbia Basin,” Greg Utzig, technical advisor to the Upper Columbia Basin Environmental Collaborative said in a press release issued by Wildsight. “We still need to see Columbia Basin ecosystems placed on an equal footing with power production and flood control.”
Flood-risk management and power generation
The AIP currently proposes an additional $37.6 million USD annual compensation, indexed to inflation for the next 20 years, for Canada’s efforts in flood-risk management with the Arrow Lakes Reservoir. The U.S. will be able to request additional storage in response to increased flood risks forming south of the border, but additional fees will be required.
Future plans to create Canadian flexibility in the management of the CRT dams could also help with the management of B.C.’s provincial dams, including the Revelstoke dam, Eichenberger noted. It’s been a focus since renegotiations began in 2018.
“With the AIP we’ve achieved that,” Eichenberger said, explaining the current treaty requires both countries to coordinate 15.5 million acre-feet of reservoir storage between the three treaty dams annually in an effort to enhance hydropower generation in the U.S.
Plans for the modernized treaty will allow Canada to unilaterally decide how to reduce the coordinated power storage to mitigate impacts in Canada and throughout B.C. The province will have more control over water management throughout parts of the Columbia Basin located in the province with a focus on provincial interests.
With federal approval needed for Canada and senate approval needed in the U.S. writing of the treaties, a new agreement will take time. While work is being done, all parties will work to create interim measures that would protect power coordinations and flood-risk management.
“It’s important to be clear that there is no set date for when a modernized CRT will come into effect,” Gluck said.
One of the steps Gluck noted all parties will continue to follow regarding treaty negotiations is engagement with Columbia Basin First Nations, not including the Sinixt Confederacy.
“We are working to ensure our collective interests are heard within the negotiations and within future operations of the system,” Nathan Matthew, Secwépemc Nation lead for the Canadian negotiation delegation told viewers.
This includes shared governance over waterways throughout the Columbia Basin for the three nations and B.C., with input from local governments and populations residing along the waterways.
“It’s been a long road to get to this point,” Matthew said. A key focus will be continued rejuvenation of wetlands, riparian and floodplain areas in efforts to revitalize and support fish populations. Revitalization will also be key in flood-risk prevention throughout the basin, a move Matthew said will improve socio-economic values for all residents and visitors in the Columbia Basin.
SINIXT CONFEDERACY ENCOURAGES REVELSTOKE TO ‘KEEP CONNECTING’
‘THAT IS HOW WE APPROACH OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE AREA,’
SINIXT CONFEDERACY’S HERB ALEX SAYS. ‘INCLUDING THE PEOPLE OF REVELSTOKE.’
By Lys Morton
Over a dozen crafts paddled from Martha Creek boat launch to 5 Mile Boat Launch on a sunny summer day Thursday, June 13. A mix of local paddlers, some from as far as Golden, came to join in with the Sinixt paddlers for the journey down the Columbia. At the front, a large dugout cedar canoe carried Sinixt Youth and Sinixt Confederacy’s Shelly Boyd. The annual event celebrates Sinixt connection to sn̓x̌ʷn̓tkʷítkʷ (currently called the Columbia River) and the harvesting of salmon at Kettle Falls. For weeks leading up to the event, Sx̌ʷnítkʷ Canoe Journey organizers encouraged locals from in and around Revelstoke to join in for the initial leg of the journey and a series of events taking place in town.
“We feel welcomed with everyone who comes out to join us,” Boyd told the group of attendees that circled around before the launch.
Fixing a false narrative
Considering Revelstoke’s early role in distorting the truth around habitation of the region, Boyd’s words might come as a surprise. Yet recent efforts have been made to retell the stories rooted in the lands around Revelstoke. From Revelstoke Museum & Archives’ permanent exhibit, Sinixt: People of the place of the Bull Trout that greets visitors to the main gallery, to Revelstoke Railway Museum’s panels that openly remind guests how the expansion of rail lines across Canada was key in the government’s genocidal strategies, acknowledging the long history of efforts to break Sinixt connection to the land is a new narrative coming to terms with the fable founding industries parroted for years.
“That narrative of people not living here, it kind of fits the industry’s purpose,” Herb Alex, senior policy analyst with Sinixt Confederacy told Revelstoke Mountaineer, referencing the way the railroad industry and other
extraction industries tried to explain away established populations. “It was a self-serving narrative, and it really got into the town's idea of what the relationships were with First Nations. That's why I'm happy that the town is looking to educate themselves on what was actually the truth.”
Sinixt Confederacy’s homeland relations
Sinixt homeland reaches from north of Mica creek, around Kinbasket Lake to south of Kettle Falls, Wash. It stretches as far east as the Kettle River drainage and west to the edge of Kootenay Lake. The Columbia River anchors the region and is a key relation to the area for Sinixt members.
“This is our core territory,” Alex explained. “That is how we approach our responsibilities to the area, to the ecosystem of this whole region and to everything that lives within it. That's including the people of Revelstoke.”
Alex is working to reestablish relations throughout the region, operating partially out of the Sinixt Confederacy office in Nelson, B.C. Opened Aug. 1, 2023, the office and staff have provided resources for those reconnecting with their Sinixt relations after years of Canada blocking efforts with claims of extinction.
“No matter where Sinixt people have found refuge and community over the past century or more, we want to bring everyone back together, in a manner consistent with our laws and traditions,” the Sinixt Confederacy website states. The office is also a resource hub Alex hopes those in Revelstoke explore in a step he said is key to rebuilding relationships.
How Revelstoke can build connections
“I just want them to understand that story,” Alex stressed, referring to the frustration and grief of the Sinixt Peoples being declared extinct and having to spend resources over and over again reasserting the Sinixt Confederacy within their homelands north of the Canadian and U.S. border. “I ask that the people of Revelstoke educate themselves, reach out to the Sinixt Confederacy office, invite us to your events and keep us in your hearts and understand that [how can Revelstoke reconnect] is a difficult question.”
Reaching out isn’t just a call for Revelstoke’s residents and guests, Alex said. He invites businesses and industries to also make an effort to work with the Sinixt Confederacy in creating plans that will create long term sustainability throughout the region. He’s aware a core part of Revelstoke’s identity lies in the various natural resources in the region, particularly forestry. Alex doesn’t think Sinixt responsibilities are entirely at odds with the industries in Revelstoke and that stewardship can come with jobs.
“We want to work with [industries] and make sure that is sustainable. By sustainable I mean 10, 20, 100 years, seven generations down the line. And that can be done.”
Sinixt Confederacy has worked tirelessly to reestablish themselves within their homeland and reconnect with the communities that now also call the region home. From Sinixt Elder Charlie Quintasket traveling to the B.C. Provincial Museum in Victoria, B.C. and inquiring why there was no mention of Sinixt’s presence in B.C., to the landmark Desautel case and pushing the Government of Canada to reaffirm Sinixt’s existence in the region. There remains countless spaces Sinixt Confederacy has not been invited to, with decisions happening that will impact their homelands. Still, Alex sees growth in the work that’s been done by communities, organizations and residents to reconnect with the Sinixt Confederacy, including efforts in Revelstoke.
“I feel confident that the Sinixt will thrive not only in Revelstoke, but throughout our territory.”
Sinixt Confederacy’s Canoe Journeys event is one way Revelstoke can work to reconnect with the nation, Sinixt Confederacy's Herb Alex tells Revelstoke Mountaineer.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer.
YOUR REVELSTOKE B.C. ELECTION GUIDE
WHAT ELECTORAL DISTRICT AM I IN? WHO ARE THE REVELSTOKE CANDIDATES? WHEN IS THE ELECTION? ALL THE ELECTION BASICS, COVERED.
By Lys Morton
Provincial elections are coming up Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. Whether you’re a first time voter, new to the area or have voted here before, we want to make sure you have all the information needed for voting day with our Revelstoke B.C. election guide.
What electoral district is Revelstoke in?
In 2022 it looked like Revelstoke might be changing electoral districts, with the B.C. Electoral Boundaries Commission exploring moving Revelstoke and Golden from the Columbia RiverRevelstoke electoral district into the Salmon ArmShuswap electoral district.
However, the commission assessed that would create a district too large for the population size and would create various struggles in connecting with populations and hearing community concerns. Revelstoke is still part of the Columbia RiverRevelstoke electoral district, which includes Field, Golden, Invermere, Kimberley and Radium Hot Springs.
Revelstoke does sit close to the Shuswap electoral district border and some living west of Revelstoke might fall in that district. To check which electoral district you’re in, input your address into the Elections BC district finder.
Where, when and how to vote
Everyone at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen and a resident of B.C. since April 18, 2024 is eligible to vote in this provincial election. You will need two separate pieces of ID, but photo ID is not needed to vote. You’ll need to prove your identity and current address.
Advanced voting opens Thursday, Oct. 10 with seven days of advanced in-person voting available at the Revelstoke Community Centre Thursday, Oct. 10 to Sunday, Oct. 13 and Tuesday, Oct. 15 to Wednesday, Oct. 16. You’ll be able to stop by from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on those days to cast your ballot. Election day, Saturday, Oct. 19 will also be held at the Revelstoke Community Centre from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
You don’t have to vote from the provincial electoral district you live in, you can stop at any voting location open during the advanced voting and on election day. You can also cast your vote at a district electoral office from when the election is called up to Saturday, Oct. 19 at 4 p.m.
To vote by mail, you can request a package online. Packages must be received by Elections BC by Saturday, Oct. 19 at 8 p.m. They can be submitted to any advanced voting location, voting day location or district electoral office by that time. If mailing your ballot back, send it in the postage-paid, return envelope early enough that Elections BC will receive it by Saturday, Oct. 19.
Who are the Columbia RiverRevelstoke candidates?
Columbia River-Revelstoke currently has three candidates up for election, with sitting MLA Doug Clovechok from BC United announcing his retirement in May. BC United suspended their campaign in August, pulling all candidate nominations and supporting the Conservative Party of BC. Various BC United MLA candidates were then added to the Conservative Party of BC ticket.
The Columbia River-Revelstoke candidates are: Calvin Beauchesne, BC Green Party, Andrea Dunlop, BC NDP Party and Scott McInnis, Conservative Party of BC, formerly the United Party.
What do members of the legislative assembly do?
It might seem to some like you’re voting for the Premier of B.C., with a focus on what party leader will take the seat. Who you’re actually voting for is the member of the legislative assembly (MLA) for your electoral district. That individual will then represent the region in the legislative assembly. MLAs collaborate on and debate upcoming bills before they’re voted on, vote on government budgets and bring to the floor concerns from their respective regions.
As a provincial body of government, MLAs can hear, advocate for and help with highway concerns, employee supports, medical resources within the province, natural resource management, schools and post-secondary education and housing supports, to name a few.
While a municipal government focuses on things affecting those living in and visiting the municipality, a provincial government focuses on things that can affect everyone living in and visiting the province.
For new and updated information, check our election guide on revelstokemountaineer.com regularly up until the election.
Check out our Revelstoke B.C. election guide before heading to vote at the Revelstoke Community Centre.
Photo by Lys Morton/ Revelstoke Mountaineer
CANDIDATES ANSWER REVELSTOKE’S QUESTIONS
LEADING UP TO THE 2024 PROVINCIAL ELECTION, REVELSTOKE MOUNTAINEER ASKED CANDIDATES WHAT READERS WANT TO KNOW.
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Mountaineer asked readers what their top questions and concerns would be for candidates leading up to the 2024 provincial election. Housing, affordability, infrastructure and future plans for resource industries were top of mind for folks. Here are the Columbia River - Revelstoke candidate answers to your questions. Responses from candidates have been lightly edited for grammar and length.
Due to Revelstoke’s draw as a resort municipality, outdoor offerings and small town feel, the population has grown rapidly. How would your party support Revelstoke in the development of housing and supportive infrastructure?
Scott McInnis, Conservative Party of BC candidate (SM ): For many obvious reasons, Revelstoke is a place people want to live. Combined with the fact there isn't much land left to build on, it leaves the town in a position where the housing market is going to continue to be very strong for the foreseeable future. John Rustad has promised the largest tax cut for homeowners and renters in B.C.'s history to help alleviate the cost of shelter for all British Columbians. Those with a mortgage or renting will be eligible for a tax credit of up to $3,000 a month starting in early 2026. Without question, this will provide huge savings for folks
in Revelstoke who have extremely high living expenses. We will be rolling out more creative solutions as the campaign unfolds.
Calvin Beauchesne, BC Green Party candidate (CB): The BC Greens recognize we need to build lots more non-profit housing to address the housing crisis. We have let the private sector control the housing market which has resulted in large profits for real estate corporations while rent and the cost of buying a home continues to go up. The BC Greens are also proposing vacancy control which would prevent landlords from unfairly evicting tenants for the sole purpose of raising the rent. B.C. has one of the highest eviction rates in Canada for this reason as most evictions in B.C. are for no-fault reasons for tenants. New zoning bylaws to allow multi-unit homes in municipalities like Revelstoke can also help alleviate some strain on the housing market.
Andrea Dunlop, BC NDP candidate (AD): Revelstoke is a great place to live, but housing is too expensive – especially in rapidly-growing towns like ours. Everyone should be able to afford a home and build a good life here. That’s why David Eby is standing up to speculators and has an action plan experts say will create 300,000 new middle-class homes across the province. Rents are coming down in Vancouver because of the leadership of the NDP and the same can be done in Revelstoke. We know the policies work; they just need to be implemented here.
We’re taking action by cutting red tape, breaking down barriers to construction, using public land to build more middle-class housing and making it easier for people to rent out secondary and basement suites. We’re seeing real results, with housing construction at record highs, and we can’t stop now.
Currently, Revelstoke’s living wage is far above the average wage in town. General affordability of groceries, gas and rent is a stressor for many. How would you support the municipality in creating a more sustainable cost of living and what ways would your party be supporting affordability across the province?
SM: Combined with the Rustad Rebate on housing, we have also committed to eliminating the carbon tax and fuel emission standard on petrol. These two initiatives will save consumers at the pump, on groceries and other consumables we need.
CB: The BC Greens are proposing a windfall tax on oil companies to help reign in some of their record profits. Oil companies have been making record profits while people are getting gouged at the pump. The same could be said for grocery store companies and real estate companies. A windfall tax provincially would raise millions of dollars which could then be invested in communities to help people struggling in this affordability crisis.
The BC Greens are also proposing closing the loopholes in the carbon tax so that 100 per cent of emissions by big industrial polluters would be charged a levy; this increased revenue would be used to increase the rebates people are receiving in B.C. The BC Greens are also proposing a portion of this revenue be invested back in communities. We need to do our part to tackle the climate crisis
Conservative Party of BC’s candidate Scott McInnis, BC Greens’ candidate Calvin Beauchesne and BC NDP’s candidate Andrea Dunlop. Photos provided by candidates.
by investing in clean energy sources; the climate crisis is raising both the cost of food and home insurance across the province. The BC Greens are also proposing banning Real Estate Investment Trusts and increase the income threshold for the Rental Assistance Program and Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters.
AD: Folks here in Revelstoke work hard to build a secure future for themselves and their families, and they deserve to get ahead. We know it’s tough right now – global inflation and high interest rates are hiking costs, and corporate gouging and real estate speculators are making things worse. That’s why David Eby is taking action to lower costs, build a strong economy and help people here to get ahead.
We’ve doubled the BC Family Benefit, cut childcare costs in half on average and reduced ICBC rates by $500 before freezing them. We need to keep taking action to help people build a good life for themselves and their families, here in the community they love.
Revelstoke has historically been a resource town, with a strong connection to logging in the region. Over the years concerns regarding the protection of Old Growth forests have been coupled with worries on how Revelstoke could transition away from a forestry focus that does not leave workers and their families without a path forward. How will your party protect old growth forests while also supporting the forestry industry in B.C. to transition into sustainable forest management? How would you communicate with Revelstoke residents about these plans?
SM: John Rustad has put forward a common sense approach to forestry which is sustainable, regenerative and resilient. A couple of highlights are: the immediate halt to aerial spraying of glysophates, enhanced biodiversity goals related to promoting wildlife/habitat and fire resilience and to replace stumpage fees for a finished product tax. We've listened to biologists, foresters and wildfire experts and have drafted a plan which will ensure forests are managed with a science-first approach, but realising this industry needs help to be profitable.
CB: We could start by implementing the recommendations of the Old Growth Strategic Review Panel to reform the forestry industry to make it more sustainable and long-term driven. These recommendations will help the forestry industry to continue to exist while taking into account things like biodiversity protection and ecosystem health. We can still have a forestry industry in B.C. while protecting our old growth; but with a profit-driven industry this isn't often of interest to CEOs and investors. We do need immediate action to protect our old growth in BC. though. The area around Revelstoke has some of the last remaining old growth not even in Canada, but in the world. Threatened species like woodland caribou depend on these ecosystems for their survival. Revelstoke also has a thriving tourist industry which is booming and presents many economic opportunities for the people who live here.
AD: Forestry is foundational to B.C., and we are determined to support forestry workers and communities like Revelstoke. Long before the ski hill, long before the Trans-Canada Highway and the tourism they brought in, forestry was a major industry here and we will work with industry to ensure it is here for years to come. We know that forestry communities across B.C. are facing big challenges – low lumber prices, punishing softwood lumber tariffs, the end of the beetle kill harvest and unprecedented wildfires. That's why David Eby is taking action to build a strong forestry sector, with good jobs for the long term. We're protecting local jobs by curbing raw log exports, incentivizing wood building and mass timber and supporting madein-B.C. wood products. And we’re taking action to conserve more ancient forests for our children and grandchildren, while supporting sustainable local forestry jobs for workers and communities.
One of Revelstoke’s future developments, Johnson Heights, is currently only accessible via the Trans Canada Highway east of the city. It has been a spot of numerous accidents, including six accidents within a three-week span. How will you and your party work to twin the highway around Revelstoke? How will your party work with the City of Revelstoke to develop a safer transition from the Trans Canada Highway to the Johnson Heights neighbourhood?
SM: Traffic safety is a major concern of Revelstokians and rightfully so. One of my top priorities as your MLA will be to work closely with the municipal government and Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to come-up with a set of strategies to address this specific area and many others along Highway One which are very treacherous.
CB: The BC Greens would work with the City of Revelstoke to develop a safer transition from the Trans Canada highway to Johnston Heights neighbourhood in whichever way they choose. The BC Greens are also proposing free and increased public transit in B.C. to get more people out of cars, which would reduce the number of fatalities from car accidents.
AD: I believe that the current Johnson Heights/Highway One intersection is unsafe, and needs to be either redeveloped or removed, with a road to the eastern access replacing it. That’s going to take collaboration between the city, province, Parks Canada and the federal government – for my part, if elected, I’ll be a passionate advocate for local priorities like this.
Importantly, to move forward, all three levels of government need to believe in supporting growing communities like Revelstoke. David Eby and the BC NDP are building roads and investing in badly-needed infrastructure across our province. No matter your preferred solution to the Johnson Heights intersection, the BC NDP are the better partner in identifying, funding and ensuring that solution gets built.
What are the three things you have in mind that you personally want to accomplish? Do you have connections that will support you in these goals?
SM: Access to Alberta Health for critical care needs. Get housing built in each community that needs it. Attract additional professionals and their families to the area whether in healthcare, education or trades. We need workers!
CB: I would like to see more intercity transit among rural communities in B.C. Lots of people have to travel far distances for medical appointments and for people that don't drive it's a real challenge. I would also like to see better climate adaptation measures in this riding. While we should do everything we can to fight the climate crisis, at least some of its effects are inevitable now; we need to invest in wildfire risk reduction projects, cooling centres, air conditioning from heat pumps and air filtration systems in public schools. I would also love to see a universal mental health care system in this riding and across B.C. A lot of people are struggling with mental health issues now due to climate grief, unaffordability and social media and we need to make sure those who want to get treatment can. Investing in mental health is an investment in society; we can reduce homelessness and drug use by investing in mental health.
AD: Affordable housing so that everyone who lives here can find high quality, secure housing that they can afford – and so that local employers can recruit and retain good employees. Strengthening healthcare, including transport for specialist appointments. We are an enormous riding. We are blessed with a good number of doctors. Considering the distance to specialists and factoring that into our collective healthcare approach is an area upon which we need to build. Healthcare should always be there when people need it. We have to keep taking action to help people get ahead and feel secure – far too many people here are struggling with the impacts of global inflation and high interest rates. If elected, I’ll be squarely on people’s side, alongside David Eby and the BC NDP team.
Stay up-to-date until election day by following along with our Election Guide on revelstokemountaineer.com, which we will update with more information regularly.
GRIZZLIES CORNER
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Grizzlies wrapped up the pre-season with a Friday, Sept. 13 away game and Saturday, Sept. 14 home game. The Grizzlies lost to host team Columbia Valley Rockies five to three in the away game, but rallied back on home turf and took a five to four win in overtime against the visiting Rockies, with Nathan White scoring the overtime goal.
The pre-season provided the team and staff with a look into what’s needed for this season.
“It allowed us to make the necessary adjustments to our lineup and make sure that we've got all the voids filled,” Ryan Parent, Grizzlies’ general manager told Revelstoke Mountaineer after the double header weekend.
Parent is eager for fans to see Jacob Smith back rocking the Grizzlies jersey as a forward. Smith previously played for the Grizzlies before spending a couple of seasons with the Merritt Centennials, but is now back on Revelstoke ice.
Ryder Ponto joined the Grizzlies this year as goalie and is already showing he can hold his own in net. At age 19, with a couple more years of junior hockey left to go, Parent said he’s excited to see how well Ponto develops as a goalie. With a roster of new and returning players, Parent is certain the Revelstoke Grizzlies will keep their standing as one of the top teams in the league.
“There's a standard there, a tradition there that we want to uphold for sure,” Parent said.
In the Grizzlies game Saturday, Sept. 21 at 100 Mile House’s South Cariboo Rec Center, they pulled out all the stops and won in shootout overtime, with a final score of five to four against the 100 Mile
Faris Meddeb scored the goal.
Tripping penalties were down from previous games, but multiple checking penalties helped wrack up Grizzlies’ penalty times during the game including a five-minute penalty for a check to the head.
Grizzlies kept the energy high for the Friday, Sept. 27 game against the Castlegar Rebels at the Castlegar and District Recreation Centre. Pulling off a four to three win, the Grizzlies held their awaygame winning streak.
The Grizzlies once again pulled a win in overtime during the Saturday, Sept. 28 game against the Grand Forks Border Bruins at the Jack Goddard Memorial Arena, with a final score of two to one. Jiri Novak, Grizzlies head coach told the Mountaineer multiple overtime wins while on the road shows him how much this year’s team is willing to give.
in the team building connections this year, Novak explained. Long trips on the bus, stays in hotels and not being around the Revelstoke community’s home-ice support means the team has learned to rely on each other for each away game. While some team members are starting to build what Novak expects to be an excellent season, such as goalie Ponto, he stressed that each game is entirely a team effort.
“He is good, absolutely. But that’s not possible without every other member on the ice at that time. They are a team working excellently together.”
The Grizzlies play two home games this month, one on Oct. 4 against Creston Valley and one on Oct. 26 against 100 Mile House. Games start at 7 p.m. at the Revelstoke Forum. For more information on the Revelstoke Grizzlies’ full schedule, visit revelstokegrizzlies.com.
Brand Mates
by Barbara Olson
WEEKEND PROGRAMS
Kick off the new year with our 10-week Weekend Programs for kids ages 3-15, designed to elevate their skills on the slopes! Choose from our Saturday or Sunday sessions, with programs available for all skill levels.
Revy Tots
Revy Rippers
Junior Freestyle
All Mountain Club Girls AMC NEW! Junior Ski Instructor Program
