Sun Peaks Independent News Volume 16 Issue 13 by Sun Peaks Independent News

VOLUME 16 ISSUE 13

YOURS FREE TO TAKE HOME

DECEMBER 21, 2018 — JANUARY 24, 2019

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BC U16 FEMALES TAKE PART IN PAGE 15 FIRST ALL GIRLS SKI CAMP

SNOWBOMBING CANADA RELEASES LINEUP FOR THIRD CANADIAN FESTIVAL

PAGE 21

Have a ʻʻBeary cHristmasˮ and a Happy new year from our families to yours! tHe team at Bear country 3220 Village Way Sun Peaks, BC, V0E 5N0 1-250-578-6969 / 1-800-811-4588 www.bearcountry.ca

Estimated $75 million in development in 2018

VILLAGE WALK’S 24 UNITS SOLD OUT IN LESS THAN A YEAR. Photo supplied

JEAN STRONG

ON A BRIGHT BLUEBIRD DAY IN SUN PEAKS, DEVELOPERS, POLITICIANS AND SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP (SPR) CELEBRATED THE COMPLETION OF VILLAGE WALK, A LUXURY TOWNHOME DEVELOPMENT STEPS FROM THE VILLAGE STROLL. “It’s a pretty damn good looking project,” A&T developer Frank Quinn said to the crowd on Dec. 15. A&T Project Developments is also building Echo Landing, currently under construction, and Elevation, projected to go on sale in 2019. The project is one of many that made 2018 one of, if not the largest, year for development in the community’s history. “It was a very big year in terms of total development in Sun Peaks,” said Darcy Alexander, general manager of SPR. “We had three or four real estate projects in various phases of work, staff housing,

Village Walk, Echo Landing, and new project development on top of that like the guys in Peaks West down on the Burfield side and The Burfield across the street.

“IT WAS PROBABLY OVER $75 MILLION IN DEVELOPMENT ON THE MOUNTAIN THIS YEAR WHICH IS MAYBE THE BIGGEST YEAR WE’VE EVER HAD.”

Another large investment was the new Orient chairlift at $4 million. Other investment concentrated in the West Village by other developers exceeded $10 million. It was the largest year for Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) which sold $158,000 in building permits, representing over $30 million in development. Rob Bremner, SPMRM’s chief administrative officer, said it’s the largest year they’ve had since inception. “We didn’t predict this year,”

FRANK QUINN, NANCY GREENE RAINE, GARY REED, AL RAINE, PETER MILOBAR, DARCY ALEXANDER, JEFF ARNOLD AND BRANDON LOLLI CELEBRATE THE COMPLETION OF A&T PROJECT DEVELOPMENT’S VILLAGE WALK. Photo SPIN

he said. “Next year I think we’re fairly optimistic. It’s one of those ones you just never know.” The significant growth has led to an increased impact on local infrastructure which the municipality has been working to handle. SPMRM took over

water and wastewater utilities in an effort to keep rates lower for taxpayers by applying for grants and creating a development cost charge bylaw. The provincial government rejected the first DCC bylaw put forward by council in

the fall but it has since been submitted with the suggested changes and Bremner is hopeful it will be approved in early 2019. “We see periods of growth

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CAHILTY HOTEL, HEARTHSTONE LODGE, CONDOS & TOWNHOUSES WE HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO TURN YOUR INVESTMENT INTO PROFIT VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

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CONTINUED FROM COVER changes and Bremner is hopeful it will be approved in early 2019. “We see periods of growth then we’re stable. We’ve been growing like crazy here for a few years.” The construction making SPMRM busier than ever is also adding more beds to the

PUBLISHER

brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

GRAPHIC ARTIST Frankie Knight

frankie@sunpeaksnews.com

TR AVELLERS ON HEFFLEY LOUIS CREEK RD. COULD SOON H AVE SMOOTHER DRIVES TO SUN PEAKS

REPORTER Nikki Fredikson

nikki@sunpeaksnews.com

CONTRIBUTORS Ron Betts Each issue reaches thousands of readers and one copy is available FREE to residents and visitors. Anyone taking papers in bulk will be prosecuted. The opinions expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, owners or writers. This publication may not be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher.

AS THE MINISTRY OF TR ANSPORTATION AND INFR ASTRUCTURE LOOKS AT REMOVING SOME OF THE EXISTING CATTLE GUARDS. A spokesp erson for t he min ist ry sa id t hey were n ot if ied by loc al resident s

t hat some may no longe r b e ne e de d. The y have sin c e committe d to work alon g side the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource s and Rural D evelopme nt to asse ss c u rrent grazing l e ase s and ra n c he r’s ne e ds.

“A sche dul e and budge t woul d be de ve lope d once the numbe r of surpl us cattl e guards is de te rmine d,” the y said in an e mail .

December event brings fines and arrests

EDITOR jean@sunpeaksnews.com

play that role and make that contribution to this fantastic resort,” Quinn said. “They (SPR) have done a phenomenal job, you just look around on a day like today and feel so lucky to be here.”

Expect more RCMP on mountain this month JEAN STRONG

Jean Strong

(beds).” This year of work has put them on track to reaching the goal. Village Walk, a $14 million project, created 217 bed units for Sun Peaks. According to Quinn more than half of the beds in Sun Peaks have been built by A&T and their companies in 15 projects since 1996. “We’ve been very lucky to

Heffley Louis Creek cattle guards under review JEAN STRONG

Brandi Schier

community, something that’s been a key goal for SPR since 2017. Alexander said they began setting the goal of 2,000 new beds in five years in 2016 and jumped in fully the next year. “Right now the demand that we have in the marketplace exceeds our ability to house people on the mountain,” he said. “Right now we have in the neighbourhood of 8,000

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WITH HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES AND OTHER EVENTS R AMPING UP K AMLOOPS RCMP WILL BE SPENDING MORE TIME IN SUN PEAKS. Media relations officer Cpl. Jodi Shelkie said the community will see an

increased police presence focusing on traffic and public safety. “Expect more uniformed foot patrols and traffic checkpoints in the area,” she said. “Underage drinking and open liquor in public places has been identified as an increasing concern as the resort municipality grows in size

and attracts more visitors to special events. “Police will continue to enforce all statutes and issue fines within the scope of the law.” During the Dec. 1 Bowl Bash Rail Jam RCMP added traffic check points on Sun Peaks Rd. which resulted in an impaired driving arrest, a vehicle being towed for

no insurance and open liquor being seized from vehicles with fines issued. Police also performed foot patrols which resulted in more open liquor fines and arresting one person for public intoxication.

Alternative approval process scheduled for portable water treatment plant borrowing SPIN THE NEW YEAR WILL BRING A DECISION ON BORROWING TO THE CITIZENS OF SUN PEAKS. Council embarked on building a new portable water treatment plant to ensure all water needs could be met in the event

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

an emergency which began operating in midDecember. The project cost $1.4 million which comes in the form of a 20 year loan. Council must get approval for all borrowing over five years, so an alternative approval process was selected as it’s more cost effective than a referendum. In this system, 10 per

cent of the population, or roughly 125 people, need to vote against the borrowing for it to fail. In that case SPMRM could hold a referendum or the money would be borrowed on a shorter time frame which would result in higher annual payments and potentially a higher tax rate.

The surface water portable treatment plant will be reused in the future permanent plant, which will be eligible for provincial and federal grants. The approval process will take place from Jan. 14 to Feb. 12.

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VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

LOCAL NEWS

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Health centre celebrates one year Grants, donations and new doctors make for successful first year NIKKI FREDRIKSON

SUN PEAKS RESIDENTS AND OTHERS FROM THROUGHOUT THE REGION HAVE BEEN BENEFITING FROM THE SUN PEAKS HEALTH CENTRE FOR ONE YEAR AS OF DEC. 11 AND THE CLINIC HAS GROWN AND ADDED MORE SERVICES FOR THE COMMUNITY. One major change to service has been a recent renovation splitting a room to give doctors a more efficient treatment area for injured patients, according to executive director of the health centre, Laura Bantock. “We did develop another room in the clinic to give us better space for suturing and casting and for eye examinations because we have a slit lamp as well,” she said. “We renovated a room to have those three areas. It’s good we actually got a grant from the Division of Family Practices to help pay for that renovation.” The centre was also able to secure the services of a mental health worker who started in November. The service is a referral based program available on Wednesdays and has been

well received by the community. Bantock said it was full from the beginning. “I think for now it’s going to stay at one day a week and we’re just monitoring the demand on her services. We feel extremely lucky to have her one day a week actually, we’re just going to monitor it this winter and we’ll have to see how it goes.” A new doctor was added to the clinic’s team Dec. 1 with Dr. Chip Bantock now taking patients Thursdays and Fridays, the addition makes four doctors available. Heading into 2019, more changes will come to the clinic as the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) approved the purchase of a medical laser for $153,860. The new piece of equipment will be used for skin condition treatments, tattoo removal, pigment spot removal, varicose vein treatment, acne treatment and more which is hoped to attract more patients to the clinic. Staff will be trained on the laser in January. SPMRM received a private donation of $12,000 that, along with other funding, will purchase an automatic chest compression machine to be shared between the health

centre, Sun Peaks Fire Rescue and ski patrol. The Sun Peaks Health Association and SPMRM have also entered a partnership with Dr. Lisa Harvey, a physician in Kamloops, who operates the STEPS program which provides LGBTQ services. The STEPS program is a not for profit which is planning to apply for charitable status but received a grant for a $120,000 which SPMRM accepted on their behalf as the municipality has charitable status. “As part of us accepting the money for them and allowing them to use those funds in exchange we’re going to have some doctor hours and coverage up here for some programming,” said the municipality’s chief administrative officer Rob Bremner. “(It’s a) win-win for us, doesn’t hurt us, allows us to maybe get a little more weekend coverage.” Bremner said the partnership came through one of the municipality’s consultants involved with the Kamloops clinic. Sun Peaks has already seen the benefit of this partnership as Harvey spent her first weekend at the clinic Dec. 15 and 16.

250.374.4030 The clinic’s winter hours are Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.) and open some weekends 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. They will be closed

from Dec. 22 to 26. Please check www.sunpeakshealth.com for details.

SUN PEAKS CENTRE ON TRACK TO BREAK GROUND THIS SPRING At a Dec. 13 public meeting Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) laid out updated plans for the Sun Peaks Centre, located near the intersection of Village Way and Creekside Way. The first phase of construction is set to begin in the spring and will include a wood beam structure over the existing ice rink with an enclosure system and four enclosed

SUN PEAKS

Rescue Fire

dressing rooms. Phase 1 will cost $7.1 million, made up of a $6 million gas tax grant and $1.1 million in funds from the Resort Municipality Initiative. The final structure, which will be fully enclosed and include spaces for meetings, fitness and other community functions, is estimated at $15.6 million. SPMRM decided it was prudent not to borrow money to

complete the project at this time and plans for potential recreational, arts and tourism grants for future phases. Council said they also wish to work with other resort partners as the facility has the potential to grow tourism in the spring and fall. Phase 1 is planned to be completed by December 2019 to allow for ice skating over the winter.

AN ARTIST’S RENDERING OF PHASE 1 OF THE SUN PEAKS CENTRE. Photo Supplied

Sun Peaks Fire Rescue Firefighter Recruitment

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY HELP OUT YOUR COMMUNITY LAUNCH YOUR CAREER sunpeaksfirerescue.com

now until Jan. 15

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

training@sunpeaksfirerescue.com

LOCAL NEWS

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Cahilty Creek and Bella Italia grow with new owners JEAN STRONG

TWO RESTAURANT STAPLES IN THE VILLAGE HAVE BEEN TAKEN ON BY NEW OWNERS. Cahilty Creek Kitchen & Taproom is now in the hands of Kelly and Yolanda Dye and Bella Italia is being revamped by Tarrah MacPherson. Both restaurants are being taken over from long time village restaurateurs Peter and Tina Ernst. The Dyes helped open the restaurant with the Ernsts eight years ago. This is the first time they are owners after long careers in the industry. Kelly, who has worked in food and beverage since the age of 17, said the change was a natural progression and it has been challenging but rewarding. “It’s a big step but it was our plan from day one,” he said, adding their team of long time staff helped make the transition go smoothly. “We love the flexibility it gives us to enjoy our lives,” he said. “We can ski with the kids’ class once a week and set aside time for family...the last eight years seem to have flown by.” They said no major changes will be happening for now. They completed major renovations last fall, and they’ll continue welcoming new and old visitors. Down the road at Bella Italia, MacPherson is preparing for her first winter owning and operating a restaurant in the village. Previously the food and beverage manager for the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel she was in a car crash on the Coquihalla Highway last December which left her with serious injuries and changed her life’s direction. After being off work for 10 months the thought of returning to that role was daunting. Instead she worked with the Ernsts and got the keys on Oct. 3. Since then she’s been working hard at perfecting things for this season. “You can’t compromise the business model that’s been created here,” she said. “We’re making slow changes to move to more authentic Italian, not New York Italian, Northern Italian with a Sicilian influence.”

Some of those changes include sourcing parmesan, coffee, vinegars and oils from Italy; slicing prosciutto in house; hand rolling large format pasta and making all pizza and pasta sauces in house. MacPherson, who has spent extensive time travelling and living in Italy, is excited to bring authentic tastes and experiences to the mountain. “My whole career has been front of house but cooking is my passion. I would’ve never taken over if it had been a Greek restaurant or pub.” She plans to be open the majority of the year, from June to Thanksgiving, midNovember to April and for lunch on weekends from Dec. 15 to Mar. 15. In the winter she will launch an adults only après ski snack bar where each alcoholic drink comes with a different Italian snack like risotto balls or a ravioli. The restaurant has also partnered with Helmcken Chocolates from Clearwater to offer high end chocolates exclusively for their customers, something that complements the extensive

CAHILTY CREEK KITCHEN AND TAPROOM WAS RENOVATED LAST YEAR. Photo Supplied

pastry experience of awardwinning chef Carson Bibby. “I see myself in Sun Peaks for 10 plus years,” MacPherson

said. “Every little thing counts in business...we prefer people come often and that if locals want pasta they won’t hesitate

to come, we want people to come because the pasta is awesome.”

Sun Peaks Community Health Centre will now be open some weekends (depending on physician availability) during the ski season.

For up-to-date information please check the live calendar on our website: www.sunpeakshealth.com Weekday Hours: 10am - 4:30pm (closed 12noon - 1pm) Weekend Hours: December 22: 1pm-5pm December 23: Closed December 29th & 30th: 1pm-5pm 2018 Holiday Closure: The clinic will be closed from December 24th to 26th & January 1st, 2019. We are located in Parking Lot 2, next to the Annex restaurant, next door to Ski Patrol. Please call ahead to book appointments:

778-644-0635 VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

LOCAL NEWS

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Avalanche rescue dog trains on the mountain

ROGER BEAN AND CHLOE TRAIN IN SUN PEAKS. Photo Dan Piccininni

JEAN STRONG

SEARCH AND RESCUE DOG CHLOE AND HER HANDLER ROGER BEAN WERE ON THE MOUNTAIN DEC. 7 PRACTISING AVALANCHE RESCUE. Chloe, a three year old Belgian Malinois, and Bean live in Burnaby and are part of the North Shore Search and Rescue team. Since early 2017 they have

been working toward validation as an avalanche rescue dog. The validation, through the Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association (CARDA), can take years to achieve but is invaluable in rescue situations. With testing in January fast approaching, and not much snow on their home mountains like Manning to train on, the the duo travelled to Sun Peaks for practice. Chloe searched for buried

clothing on Skunk in Gil’s with the help of Sun Peaks Resort LLP’s snow safety team. “It reinforced that we have more training to do before the exam,” Bean said. “It was our first time on snow since last season.” “We had a great time at Sun Peaks. Kit and his crew in snow safety were so welcoming.”

KEEP ROADS CLEAR FOR CREWS THIS WINTER

T h e big p owde r day s eve ryone d rea m s of c a n become a nig ht m a re for th o se resp on s i b l e for cle ar ing t h e ro a ds i f pe ople ig nore mun ic ip al by laws reg a rd ing s n ow cle arin g . Br u sh up on your knowledg e of Su n Peaks Mo u ntai n Re s or t Municip al it y by l aw s to m ake yo u r and t h ei r w i nt e r smoother . Parki ng in no s t op p i n g zones , no p a rki ng z on e s or

o t h e r a re a s where pa rkin g i s p roh i b it e d i n t he w int er c a n re s ult i n f in es f rom $65 to $100. From Nov. 1 t o M ay 1 it ’s al s o p rohib it ed to b lo c k a ny rig ht of w ay w it h e q u ip m e nt , b u ildin g m at e r i al s , or a nyt hin g e l s e t h at c o uld ob st ruc t s n ow c l e a ri n g or st ora g e by the mu n ic ipalit y. A ny o b s t ruc t ion s can be re m ove d by t he mu n ic ip al it y or f ire c hief at

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

t he ex p en se of t heir ow n er or p erson resp on sib le for t heir u se. If sn ow removed f rom a privat e prop ert y is du mp ed or b low n ont o roa d a $6 5 f in e c ould b e app lied. Sn ow should b e st ored on you r prop ert y or removed periodic ally.

CHLOE READY TO GET TO WORK. Photo Dan Piccininni

COMMUNITY

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Cannon recognized with award from Governor General JEAN STRONG

SUN PEAKS FIRE RESCUE CHIEF COLIN CANNON IS THE LATEST RECIPIENT OF AN AWARD FROM THE GOVERNOR GENERAL. THE FIRE SERVICES EXEMPLARY SERVICE MEDAL IN RECOGNITION OF 20 YEARS OF LOYAL AND EXEMPLARY SERVICE TO PUBLIC SAFETY IN CANADA WAS FIRST ANNOUNCED AT THE FIREFIGHTERS’ SOCIETY GALA IN NOVEMBER BUT WAS OFFICIALLY AWARDED DEC. 18 AT A MUNICIPAL COUNCIL MEETING. Cannon said he was surprised when his wife Maria and son James arrived at the meeting as he didn’t know the medal would be awarded. “Honestly I didn’t see it coming last night,” he said. “It was a really nice surprise.” Cannon joined the department as a volunteer months after moving to Sun

Peaks in 1997 and volunteered for 10 years. “Sun Peaks needed some bodies and I was a body.” Eleven years ago he was hired as the fire prevention officer and three years ago he took over as chief from Bill Stoner. “It was a little weird,” Cannon said of the path his career took. He had considered a career in firefighting while in school but after seeing a woman die in a fire he was deeply affected. Instead he finished university, spent time living in Europe and lived in Whistler for 10 years before his move to Sun Peaks which sparked his firefighting work. “It’s been a complete pleasure working and being a part of the fire department. The community is what I’ve always loved about this place. Helping and giving back is what community means...it’s a good feeling to help people. We’re here to serve the community.” Reflecting on 21 years of service (the award application was submitted too late to be

COLUMNIST VIEWS RON BETTS RESIDENT SKI WRITER ron@sunpeaksnews.com

A native of Cape Breton Island, Ron Betts has called Sun Peaks his home mountain since 2008. Ron splits his winter between guiding heliskiers in the central Monashees and working with the Sun Peaks Ski School, he is a frequent contributor to Ski Canada Magazine.

OH, HELLO WINTER, NICE TO SEE YOU, IT’S BEEN AWHILE. WHAT’S THAT? YOU MISSED ME TOO? AH WINTER,YOU SAY THE NICEST THINGS. Ever since I was a kid, the smell of autumn has brought the tingle of what’s to come. Before I’d ever put my foot in a ski boot, winter already had a grip on me. My neighbourhood was filled with enough kids to make up at least two decent sized road hockey teams and we all loved the cold white stuff, and the recreational opportunities winter presented. We used to joke you could

tell what season it was in our neighborhood by what we threw at one another. In spring and summer, it was crab apples. In the fall, chestnuts. Winter was all about snowballs. If you’ve ever been hit by a well thrown crab apple or chestnut, you’d have to agree, snowballs hurt much less. Winter was the best! After a fresh snowfall you could hide behind snow banks at stop signs, when a car, or better yet a bus, pulled away, off you’d go. Grab the bumper and see how many blocks you could ride for. We called them “hookies”. It was a rite of passage on the East Coast. So were “rubber nets;” we had a brook in the neighbourhood that would freeze over. Before the ice

SUN PEAKS MAYOR AL RAINE PRESENTS FIRE CHIEF COLIN CANNON WITH HIS 20 YEAR EXEMPLARY SERVICE AWARD. Photo SPIN

received last year) Cannon said said he was keen on seeing new faces in the hall. “I can’t do his forever,”

he said. “I’ve done 21 years already, we’re looking for new people to join us. I’d love to see a few new members join the

department.” Recruitment is open for anyone interested in joining until Jan. 15.

Kicking things off right (and left) got so thick that it would support a herd of 12-yearolds, we used to run across, from bank to bank. The idea was to make it across without breaking through the ice. Hence the name, rubber nets. The ice would get rubbery as it weakened, more than a few “doubledog dares” ended in wet feet and pants. Ah, life before the internet. It’s a wonder we even survived. So, it’s been a thing of beauty to realize that the feeling hasn’t ebbed. As a semi-responsible adult, I still get the same tingle when the days get short and the nights get cold. That’s why the Sun Peaks Winter Kick Off Camp gets me amped every year. It’s a chance to get out on the hill with around 75 likeminded people. For those who aren’t familiar, the

camp is a three day ski improvement workshop. Now in its fifth year, it’s become an annual event. For many people it’s the way they get their season started and how they knock the summer rust off. What makes this camp special, apart from the awesome early season snow we get each year, is the quality of coaching staff. The coaches bring a wealth of experience to the table, all are seasoned professionals, and each has a lifetime of ski teaching under their belt. The camp also gives people the opportunity to learn a few new tricks off snow. This year we had a ski tuning clinic, a bootfitting workshop and a stretching/myofascial release session for campers to choose from.

Our camp dinner was a delicious mountain top fondue at Sunburst Lodge, complete with live music by the ultra-talented, father daughter duo of Madison and Dave Olds. After dinner, a moonlight ski back to the village was a highlight for most guests. While my winter has a different focus than it did when I was a kid, it’s nice to know that the 12-yearold me still comes out to play when the lifts start turning. If there’s a fountain of youth, I think the Kick Off Camp helps me tap into it. Maybe next year our extra-curricular activities should include snowball fights, hookies and rubber nets.

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Funding for mountain addition from BC Winter Games

WESTSYDE YDE VICE SERVICE

Auto Repairs Diesel Repairs

JEAN STRONG

SUN PEAKS HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED FOR HELPING HOST THE BC WINTER GAMES IN FEBRUARY. On Dec. 13 the Games announced Sun Peaks will receive $15,000 from the BC Winter Games Legacy Fund for the construction of an equipment storage shed at the top of the Sunburst Chair. Money from the nearly $60,000 fund will also be distributed to School District 73, Pacific Sport Interior, Kamloops Sports Council, Kamloops Judo Club, the Kamloops Long Blades and the Kamloops Art Gallery. Equipment was also donated to Sun Peaks during

the games including safety netting and starter cross gates worth $14,600. An alpine radio repeater worth $8,000 was donated to the Sun Peaks Alpine Club. Aidan Kelly, chief marketing officer for Sun Peaks Resort LLP, said hosting was a great experience for the resort. “There’s such a good vibe and sense of excitement when pulling off large scale events of this magnitude,” he said. “Having a legacy fund available is a key indicator of how well the Games were run and managed. Sun Peaks is very grateful to receive a portion of these funds to assist with infrastructure that will help the destination

host successful events in alpine ski racing well into the future.” The event ran from Feb. 22 to 25. Sun Peaks hosted more than 250 athletes from a variety of sports like snowboarding, freestyle, big air, and giant slalom.

previously occupied by The Candy Vault, is owned by Councillor Darcy Alexander who did not have a vote and was not in the room for discussion. Council also discussed new space which may be available in the West Village in a few months but decided against it as more space is needed by January. Mayor Al Raine also said a West Village location would increase administrative costs as staff at the second location would need things like printers but from the village stroll location they can walk to use equipment in the current offices. Councillor Ines Popig said should a less central office space become available SPMRM should look at moving elsewhere to open up the prime retail location to a business which offers

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VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

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PROTECT YOUR GAS METER

SPMRM OFFICE GETS TIGHT AS STAFF NUMBERS INCREASE

As Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) grows they’re feeling the squeeze in their current Kookaburra Lodge office. One new bylaw officer was hired this year and a director of infrastructure and director of finance will start in January. The new staff and those from the utility takeover have forced SPMRM to look elsewhere for space for five staff to allow for additional offices for the two senior staff in the current space. During a Dec. 4 special council meeting councillors approved moving the building inspection, public works and bylaw staff to a space in the Fireside Lodge. They voted in favour of signing a three year lease at a rate of $30 per square foot plus triple net. The location,

Air Conditioning Repairs

more to guests. Staff will move into the new office in December. When the 1,200 square foot Kookaburra office was leased in 2010 there was a mayor’s desk, reception station, one empty workstation and council chambers. Since then the reception desk and work station were staffed, the mayor’s desk was replaced by a 12 foot counter shared by five staff with up to three working simultaneously. An additional parttime reception and administrative staff member was hired this year. Council chambers were split to create more work spaces which has forced council to hold meetings in boardrooms at local hotels.

Sun Peaks is preparing for snow. While this is great for snow sports, it’s not so good for your gas meter. Remember to keep your gas meter set clear of snow and ice. Do not use the area around your gas meter for storage of items such as skis, shovels, snow-blowers, wood, etc., such that access by Utility staff or emergency personnel is obstructed. In an emergency, a ﬁrst responder may need to shut your gas service off at the meter set. Don’t forget overhead ice can fall off your roof and break the meter set causing uncontrolled release of gas. Utility staff can assist you in clearing the heavy snow and ice covering your gas meter set. Please do not try and remove any ice coating the gas meter yourself. Remember, that if Utility’s staff must clear the gas meter during monthly meter reading or for safety reasons, you will be charged a fee of $50 for the 1st incident & $100 for each additional time. If you have any questions regarding this notice please contact the Utility’s ofﬁce at info@sunpeaksutilities.com or call 250.578.2020 Monday to Friday After Hour Emergency 250.319.0629

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MOUNTAIN TOWN NEWS

Mountain Town News ALLEN BEST mountaintownnews.net allen.best@comcast.net

WHISTLER RATTLES CAGES OF FOSSIL FUEL COMPANIES, GETS CAGE RATTLED BACK WHISTLER, B.C. – This fall Whistler set out to wag its finger about climate change. Now, fingers are wagging back, accusing the resort municipality of hypocrisy or at least of being politically tone-deaf. The letter was sent by recently elected mayor, Jack Crompton, to about 20 oil and gas companies, accusing them of bearing disproportionate responsibility for the growing climate crisis. “All levels of government, industry and individuals bear responsibility for solving and paying for climate impacts,” said the letter sent to one of the firms, Calgary-based Canadian Natural Resources. “However, we suggest that your company and industry bear a larger portion of the responsibility. Your industry is aware that its products have a negative impact on the climate, yet continues to develop new resources.”

Whistler, said the letter, expects to see more rain during winter. Summers will become longer, hotter, and drier, with increased risk of forest fires. This wasn’t the first such letter sent to an oil and gas company. Vancouver-based West Coast Environmental Law persuaded 16 communities in B.C. to write such letters to the world’s 20 largest fossil fuel companies, only of few of which are based in Canada. Previously, for example, the mayor of Victoria sent a letter to Chevron asking the company to pay 3.34 per cent of the city’s climate-related costs going forward. “You cannot make billions of dollars selling your product, knowing that it is causing significant financial harm to communities around the world, and not expect to pay for at least some of that cost.” Many companies have acknowledged the link between greenhouse emissions and climate change, and most say they’re trying to reduce emissions. But few can make as strong a claim as the Calgary-

based firm that got Whistler’s letter. The owner of Canadian Natural Resources has been a key investor in a Sqamish project that seeks to withdraw carbon dioxide from the air. But there’s another reason that this particular letter went viral and others sent by other jurisdictions did not. Calgary, where the company is based, is hurting, with a vacancy rate in its gleaming downtown office towers of 27 per cent (compared to 15 per cent in Denver). Some 350,000 people in the oil and gas sector in Alberta have lost their jobs as the province’s more expensive oil sands struggle to compete in a world market glutted from expanded oil production enabled by improved hydrofracturing and horizontal drilling techniques. Those techniques allowed the United States to become a net exporter for the first time in 75 years, the Wall Street Journal noted. Earlier this year, the United States became the world’s top producer of oil. But for Whistler to point fingers was seen by some as hypocritical. Columnists

pointed to the dependence of Whistler on mostly longdistance travelers to sustain its economy. The Economist made the same point in a Dec. 1 story. On average, each person going about their normal business produces the equivalent of five tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. But a single transatlantic round trip produces the equivalent of about one tonne per passenger even in economy class, the magazine noted. Whistler’s letter caused several companies to cancel their participation in an investors’ conference planned for Whistler in January. The energy component of that conference was subsequently cancelled. In response, the Whistler mayor posted a video on Facebook that expressed a “sincere regret that anyone felt unwelcome here.” Crompton also seemed to back away from the criticism of the oil and gas companies. Whistler as a community, he said, acknowledges “that we depend upon fossil fuels. We have a responsibility to respond to the climate change challenge ourselves and do it locally.” Pique Newsmagazine editor Clare Ogilvie faulted Whistler for not being sensitive to the distress of Calgary and Alberta.

But the errant tactic does not diminish the urgency of climate change, she said. In her estimation, nobody looks very good. Fossil fuel companies have been aware of the impact to the environment of their product for close to 60 years, yet they have continued to expand while raking in huge profits. But the tourism industry— including Whistler—can’t clean up its act, either. She points to a 2018 study published in the scientific journal Nature Climate Change that found tourism accounts for around eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Air travel was the primary culprit in this accounting. “Do we not need to get our own house in order before we start demanding others do the same?” she asked. Whistler, she noted, can’t seem to ban plastic bags, stop outside heaters and gas fires from being left on all the time, or get shopkeepers to close their doors in the middle of winter. Therein lies the rub. If burning gas to heat the great outdoors in ski towns remains acceptable, how can how can oil and gas companies be persuaded to change the fundamental premise of their businesses?

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

THIS CHRISTMAS

MAKE

Memories NOT GARBAGE GIVE EXPERIENCES, NOT TRASH

DID YOU KNOW? MANY OF THE WELL-INTENDED GIFTS GIVEN AROUND THE HOLIDAYS END UP IN THE LANDFILL. CONSIDER GIVING GIFTS OF EXPERIENCES LIKE A WEEKEND AWAY OR TICKETS TO THEIR FAVORITE SHOW OR SPORTING EVENT.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE WRAPPING

DID YOU KNOW? MUCH OF THE WRAPPING USED AROUND THE HOLIDAYS IS ACTUALLY RECYCLABLE. CONSIDER BUYING 100% PAPER WRAPPING AND STAYING AWAY FROM WRAP CONTAINING FOIL OR PLASTIC.

WASTE-FREE ENTERTAINING

DID YOU KNOW? PLASTIC CUTLERY AND DISPOSABLE PLATES MAY BE CONVENIENT, BUT THEY’RE NOT RECYCLABLE AND END UP IN THE LANDFILL.

RECYCLE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE

DID YOU KNOW? YOU CAN BRING YOUR REAL TREE (WITHOUT LIGHTS/ TINSLE/ORNAMENTS) TO A LOCAL TNRD ECO-DEPOT OR TRANSFER STATION FOR FREE!

OPEN

SUN PEAKS TRANSFER STATION IS OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY, AND NEW YEARS DAY

tnrd.ca | 250.377.8673 | recycleright@tnrd.ca Be sure to follow us for all the latest information 10

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

SUN PEAKS Waste free holiday Ad 2018 v2.indd 1

2018-12-07 2:02:45 PM

Living on mountain time MARLIE MARCHEWKA IS A PRARIE GIRL LIVING HER BIG MOUNTAIN DREAMS. Photo Cody Puckette

NIKKI FREDRIKSON

AFTER HER HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION IN 2005 ONE THING WAS CLEAR. MARLIE MARCHEWKA KNEW SHE WANTED TO BE IN THE MOUNTAINS PURSUING SNOWBOARDING IN WHATEVER CAPACITY POSSIBLE. THE SASKATCHEWAN NATIVE STUMBLED ACROSS SUN PEAKS 14 YEARS AGO WHILE ON VACATION AND HAS SINCE BECOME AN ACCOMPLISHED SNOWBOARDER, VOLUNTEER AND BUSINESS OWNER IN THE COMMUNITY. “I met my now longtime partner Joey that first year. It was a classic lifty/ snowcat driver love story. Coming on 14 years now, I’m happy to still call this little v i l l a g e h o m e ,” s h e said.

Dedicating much of her time in the community to the Bluebird Day Fund (BDF), a program established in Bryn Taylor’s memory to support the development and growth of snowboarding and skiing

in the community, she feels lucky to have been part of the program since its inaugural year, 2006. “Over the last 10 plus years it has grown and transformed into something nobody could have imagined,” said Marchewka. “As a whole, it has shaped me into a more passionate person within our community, ‘passing the buck’ if you will.” Growing up on the prairies Marchewka didn’t have access to freestyle programs like the ones offered through the BDF, nor did she have any female role models riding the terrain parks. “It seemed too good to be true when the new (BDF) coaching opportunity came up. Given my r e c e n t competing

background and being involved with other avenues of

(ABOVE) MARCHEWKA RIPPING THROUGH THE TREES OF SUN PEAKS AND (BELOW) TAKING IT ALL ON THE BURFILED CHARLIFT. Photos Supplied

the foundation teaching alongside fellow coach John Kosciw just seemed right.” Calling it a privilege to have been a coach with the organization, Marchewka will take a step back this year. “I’m not coaching this year because of my new avenue of exploring touring in snowboarding. It was a hard decision to make, but there are always new avenues to explore within the sport. Turn your passions into progressions.” One passion she’s been pursuing for the past few years and developed into a business is stained glass creations. The medium of solder art is something she’s explored with partner Joey, originally creating pieces

for herself and loved ones before starting Designs by M & J. “I’m a bit of an introvert so most people didn’t even know I really liked art until I started pursuing stained glass. I love the creative process of it all, designing new pieces, choosing textures and colors, all of it really. It’s never boring or stagnant. And inspiration is everywhere, you just have to look as far as outside your living room window.” Looking back at her journey as a Sun Peaks local Marchewka said one thing she would change is purchasing a home sooner. “At 18 though, you don’t really know where you see yourself for the rest of your life. It’s not impossible to be a homeowner these days in Sun Peaks, it’s just a bit more difficult, but I’m

always up for a challenge.” A fan of all four seasons, she described winter and summer riding on the mountain as two different terrain playing fields, like riding bike trails Mach, Sugar then Sweet One in the summer and enjoying a three mountain tour with a trek out to Gil’s in the winter months. For her being a Sun Peaks local means being part of a selfless, active and positive community. One can walk through the village on any given day and know a handful of great individuals. “Obviously we run on the world’s clock, but Sun Peaks just seems to have its own time, it’s own heartbeat. That’s what makes it special.”

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

11th Annual SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY CANADA BENEFIT ART AUCTION

THANK YOU

to the artists and others who donated art for this cause, to the students and their parents at Sun Peaks Secondary Academy who actively participated with a student art display and volunteered at the event, to the businesses noted below for their sponsorship, and to the multitude of friends and visitors who have supported this event with their attendance and purchases.

This successful fundraiser is a direct result of our community working together. This year we received over 35 donated quality works of art and many precious gifts of time to assist us with this important community fundraiser. Sun Peaks Secondary Academy is a self funded school which operates only with our continuing community support.

This year we are very pleased to announce that with our combined efforts we raised over $20,000 for Sun Peaks Education Society in support of Sun Peaks Secondary Academy.

donated by

Ryan & Jillian Schmalz, Wayne & Candice Curle

Ari Neufeld

The Basko Family

Korina Linder

The Hawes Family

piece name

‘Blur Drip’ - Keely Sorrette

‘Leaves’ - Korina Linder

‘Fiddler’ - Janet Kobelka

‘High in the Canadian Rockies’

‘Humpback’ & ‘Killer Wail Dude!’ - Ari Neufeld

donated by

Earl Hirtz

Justin Keller

Dom Koric Photography

Zuzy Rocka

The MacDonald Family

piece name

‘Grizzly Cub with Fucus’ - Earl Hirtz

‘Study’ - Justin Keller

‘Village Sunset’ - Dom Koric

‘Nesting Series’ - Zuzy Rocka

‘Siberian Night’ - Robert Bateman

donated by

Reid Liske

Anne Elliot & Susan Mcrae

Beverley Mulldoon

Ben Morris & Alpine Images

Darby O’Toole

piece name

‘Secretarybird’ - Robert Bateman

‘Sentry of the Salish Sea’ High Country Denizens

‘A Winter Blanket’ - Beverley Mulldoon

‘Shred King’ - Ben Morris

‘Shoreline Sunset’ - Darby O’Toole

donated by

The Mollard Family

The Cooper Family

Madison Adams

piece name

‘Opening Day’ - Marj Knive

‘Boss Ram’ - Danna Nesjan

‘Watercolour Sunrise Range’ Madison Adams

donated by

Alpine Images

Anne Rurak

piece name

‘Golden Days’ - Gemma Harris

‘Nature Mug’ - Anne Rurak

donated by

Louise England

David Langevin

piece name

‘Snow Flowers’ - Louise England

‘Trials’ - David Langevin

donated by

The Vancamp family

Patt Rimmer

piece name

‘Sergo’ - Kali Vancamp

‘Spawning Sockeye’ - Clarence Mills

donated by

Bill Fell

The Hawes Family

piece name

‘Reflections, Crown Lake’ - Bill Fell

‘Butterfly and Water Droplet’ - Xander Hawes

donated by

Steve & Suzanne Travis piece name

‘Shannon Falls’ - Joyce Popein donated by

Linda Scarfo piece name

‘Cross Country Solitude’ - Linda Scarfo

donated by

Bruce & Ingrid Mitchell piece name

‘The Long Climb’ - Bruce Mitchell donated by

Juliet McGauchie piece name

‘Lily’ - Juliet McGauchie donated by

Darla Miller

donated by

piece name

LizRD - Fine Art

‘5 Mile in the Summer’ - Jo Petty

piece name

‘Silent Night’ - Liz Derksen donated by

Peggy Heger LeDuc piece name

‘Whitecroft Autumn Canopy’ - Peggy Heger LeDuc

donated by

Edit Pal

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO Alpine Images Al Raine and Nancy Greene Raine

piece name

‘The Little Tree’ - Edit Pal

donated by donated by

Ruth Fane

ARTISTS IN ACTION Darby O’Toole Madison Adams

piece name

Paula Landry

‘Channelling Chihuly’ - Ruth Fane

piece name

‘Winter on the rock’ - Paula Landry

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

THIS SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISER IS A DIRECT RESULT OF OUR COMMUNITY WORKING TOGETHER.

PHOTO CREDIT: Zuzy Rocka

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

GET OUT THERE

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

PUBLISHER’S NOTE BRANDI SCHIER PUBLISHER’S NOTE

brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

WANTING TO FEEL MORE COMPETENT IN THE BACKCOUNTRY, I JUMPED AT THE CHANCE TO TAKE AN EARLY SEASON AVALANCHE SAFETY TRAINING COURSE THIS YEAR. MY LEVEL ONE COURSE SEVERAL YEARS AGO LEFT ME FEELING LIKE THE ONLY THING I KNEW FOR SURE WAS THAT I DIDN’T REALLY KNOW ANYTHING. MY LEVEL TWO, WHILE FULL OF AMAZING INFO, ALSO LEFT ME WITH A SIMILAR AFTERFEELING. The backcountry is complicated. People can dedicate their entire lives to snow science and still not completely accurately predict certain avalanches. It can be overwhelming and intimidating and the only answer is more training and experience. With that in mind, here are a few simple takeaways as we head into a new winter season. But obviously the best thing to do is take the course yourself!

1. Review your gear - A lot of people I know carry the essential beacon, shovel and probe. But do they know how those items will perform in an actual emergency? Many shovels are actually flimsy under pressure and probes should be at least three metres long. And is your beacon the right one for you? Different brands have different features, and if you’re not a guide or out often, simpler might be better. Relying on a float bag? In certain terrain, they may not be as useful as touted so do your own research. 2. Practise - Practise a lot. And make it hard. Many of our self rescue scenarios on the course were challenging, which really drove home the point that every avalanche situation is going to be different and difficult. Don’t forget about the clueless witness whose beacon is still on send, deep treewell burials, weak beacon batteries and other tricky variables. 3. Remember it’s not rocket science - The amount of information, acronyms and jargon can be paralyzing, but in the end it’s important not to overthink it. Do your due

MIKE PACKHAM, OF PACKHAM AVALANCHE CONSULTING, GIVES THE LAY OF THE LAND AT KEEFER LAKE LODGE. Photo Cody Puckette

diligence, gather as much relevant info as possible and listen to your instincts. If something seems sketchy, bail! 4. Think critically - This was hammered home during our days on the mountain and rightfully so. Constantly

reassess your situation. What are you observing? What’s changed during your ascent? Does the Avalanche Canada rating hold true to what you’re seeing? Is your leader making safe decisions? Taking stock of where you’re at and what’s

happening around you is the key to understanding if you’re playing it safe or entering a dangerous situation.

ALPINE FONDUE & STARLIGHT DESCENT

FIRST TRACKS EXPERIENCE

Take an evening chairlift ride up to the Sunburst Bar + Eatery. A delicious three course Swiss-style fondue is followed by a torch-lit guided ski down 5 Mile.

Fresh powder or perfect corduroy – the mountain is yours while everyone else is waking up! Includes two $10 dining vouchers.

$85

Minimum age 12 yrs.

DEC 19 - MAR 21† Every Wed/Thurs 5:00pm - 8:00pm

$36

Adult (13+ yrs) $25 Child (5-12yrs)

DEC 17 - MAR 23 Every Mon/Wed/Sat 7:45am Sunburst Load

Visit SunPeaksResort.com/activities for more details! Buy alpine and nordic tickets online, in advance for the best price! SunPeaksResort.com/STORE *Lift pass not included. Applicable taxes will be added to all prices. Dates and prices may be subject to change without notice. Some restrictions apply. †Bonus dates include Dec. 28, Jan. 4, Feb. 15, 22, and Mar. 15, 22.

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

GET OUT THERE

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Mountain classroom for secondary students SPSA students learn life saving skills JEAN STRONG

SUN PEAKS SECONDARY ACADEMY (SPSA) STUDENTS FROM GRADES NINE TO 12 WERE OUT IN THE SNOW IN DECEMBER LEARNING TO BE SAFE IN THE BACKCOUNTRY. Thirteen students spent one day in the classroom and one in the field with Bodie Shandro, Avalanche Canada avalanche skills instructor and helicopter skiing guide, in the first partnership between School District #73 and Sun Peaks Education Society (SPES) for an Avalanche Skills Training (AST) level one course. Shandro introduced key skills for backcountry explorers including avalanche formation and release, avalanche terrain, trip planning, tools, travel techniques and introduction to companion rescue. “The really cool thing about it is the school is including snow safety in the curriculum,” Shandro said. “I love the opportunity because

at the end of the day these students are very fortunate to be studying on a mountain and skiing. It’s not an if, but a when, for when these students will head into the slack or backcountry.” SPES president Maria Cannon said in previous years students took Shandro’s Mountain Skills Camp so the AST is a natural step. “With the mountain culture it’s important kids understand how to explore the mountain safely,” she said. “It’s always good for them, that progression.” That progression will continue next year when SPES partners with Sun Peaks’ ski school to provide ski and snowboard lessons to teach and develop technique. Grade nine student Emily Zimmer said the course was a good learning opportunity and she liked practising with transceivers and digging pits to see layers in the snow. “I really enjoyed our outdoor course day when we were in the field,” she said. “It was a great opportunity because it’s great to know the safety

Relax

into your

precautions if I want to go out in the backcountry in the future...I would like to go out more eventually with my dad.” Zimmer said a lot of information was packed into the two days. “One of my favourite things was definitely learning how to take control of a situation in an avalanche...I would definitely take more courses in the future and would like to help other people in the backcountry.”

PRACTISING SHOVELLING DURING AN AST 1 COURSE. Photo Bodie Shandro

EMILY ZIMMER PRACTISES WITH A TRANSCEIVER DURING AN AST 1 COURSE. Photo Bodie Shandro

Festive Bliss

this Winter

Experience Winter at Sun Peaks Spa, Indulge in our outstanding Specials, Facials, Manicures & Pedicures. Be pampered with our Relaxation, Deep Tissue or Signature Massage. Slide from the slopes and onto our Hydromassage Beds. Give something special to someone you care about with our Gift Vouchers. Couples Treatments, Group Bookings & Individual sessions available

OPEN DAILY Book online at www.sunpeaksspa.com 250 578 2078 14

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

@sunpeaksspa

250 578 0068

ARTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Snowbombing announces headliner: Illenium Fan favourites return NIKKI FREDRIKSON

AFTER A SUMMER OF ANTICIPATION THE “GREATEST SHOW ON SNOW,” SNOWBOMBING CANADA, HAS RELEASED THE LINEUP FOR THEIR APRIL FESTIVAL. WITH A MIX OF DJS SWEEPING THE INDUSTRY, OLD FAVOURITES AND A FEW FAMILIAR FACES, IT’S A WEEKEND MUSIC LOVERS WON’T WANT TO MISS. Headlining the event is Denver-based DJ Illenium, known for captivating audiences with emotional experiences and breathtaking visuals. Recognized songs by the artist include Feel Good with Gryffin, Take You Down, Beautiful Creatures and Fractures. Cypress Hill, the first Latino-

American hip-hop recording group to have platinum and multi-platinum albums, most famously known for Insane in the Brain, Lowrider, and Tequila Sunrise, will also take to the headliner stage. “We wanted to get back to the same sort of vibe that we had on year one, which was having more of a heritage, everybodyknows hip-hop act to anchor it. We thought Cypress Hill was a perfect fit for this sort of thing,” said Nate Sabine, director of business development at Blueprint, the company that organizes the Canadian event. Some familiar faces will return for the second consecutive year such as The Funk Hunters, Smalltown DJs and SkiiTour. “For us, it’s up there with the best festivals on the West Coast that we get to go to,”said Pete Emes of Smalltown DJs. “We’re

lucky enough they like having us there, they like what we bring to the festival, so it’s cool to get booked again because we’re trying to establish a regular party within the party.” Waiting until they know which stage they’ll be playing this year, Emes said he and DJing partner Michael Grimes are planning to perform with SkiiTour again to bring a fun party vibe to their set. “We live in the mountains all winter so this is a real opportunity to celebrate that. The lineup is really dope and we love it,” he said. Emes said the duo plan to make the most of the weekend, showcasing their new singles Fools Gold, Bad Behaviour and What’s Your Poison. “To me, there’s no other festivals like it where you’re basically taking over a little

village and it’s all like-minded individuals. I met more people at Snowbombing last year than I meet at almost any festival because you’re just walking around the village and chatting with people, sitting down and eating with people and just it’s a pretty cool vibe.” Looking forward to coming back for another year, Tim Livingstone of SkiiTour said it’s going to be like a family reunion with many Canadian artists included in the lineup. “We saw the festival make some leaps and bounds from the first year to the second year and honestly it’s one of our favourite festivals we play,” he said. “‘It’s such a perfect fit for us we’ve done après ski party the last two years on the hill which is the first time we’ve had to take a chairlift to our gig which is pretty appropriate for SkiiTour.” Other artists putting on a show in April are Drezo, Adventure Club, Keys N Krates, Slander, Said the Sky and more. In an effort to keep the party going

all weekend long within the village core, Sabine confirmed the main stage will be in the Village Day Lodge parking lot making it more accessible to Snowbombers. Snowbombing Canada will return to Sun Peaks April 5 to 7. Tickets went on sale Dec. 10.

Open since 1998, this shop has become a favourite of Sun Peaks’ guests. New feature artists such as David Langevin, jewellery, many gift ideas & memorable souvenirs.

Located in the Coast Sundance Lodge FAN FAVOURITE SKIITOUR PLANS TO BRING THE APRÈS SKI PARTY TO THE 2019 EVENT. Photo SPIN

250 578 2673

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

MONTH IN PHOTOS

BRENNAN THOMPSON SAMPLES A BLEND FROM COVERT FARMS AT SAVOUR THE SUN AT THE SUNBURST LODGE DEC. 7. Photo SPIN

SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP EXECUTIVE CHEF HANS STIERLI AT UNCORK YOUR SENSES, DEC.8. Photo SPIN

SUN PEAKS RESORT HELD THEIR ANNUAL HIGH FIVE DAY DEC. 3 RASING FUNDS AND DONATIONS FOR THE KAMLOOPS FOOD BANK. Photo SPIN

LILY THE DOG, ALONG WITH HER OWNERS, STOPPED TO MEET SANTA AT THE HOLIDAY KICK-OFF. Photo SPIN

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; JANUARY 24

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

HOLIDAY KICK-OFF WEEKEND HAD ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY GETTING INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT. Photo SPIN

CHANNEL 9 TODAY SHOW FROM AUSTRALIA BROADCASTING LIVE FROM SUN PEAKS. Photo SPIN

DESERT SOUNDS HARMONY CHORUS CAROLING IN THE VILLAGE. Photo SPIN

EVENTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Winter Okanagan Wine Festival selling out fast NIKKI FREDRIKSON

FOR 10 DAYS IN JANUARY THE COMMUNITY WILL TRANSFORM INTO A WINE LOVERS’ PARADISE AS SUN PEAKS PREPARES TO HOST THE 21ST ANNUAL SUN PEAKS WINTER OKANAGAN WINE FESTIVAL. THE EVENT OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERY WINE CONNOISSEUR, WHETHER YOU’RE JUST DEVELOPING YOUR PALATE OR HAVE A REFINED TASTE, IT’S A GREAT OCCASION TO TRY SOME OF BRITISH COLUMBIA’S BEST BLENDS. The festival, which returns Jan. 11 to 20, already had six events sold out by mid-December. Events manager for Tourism Sun Peaks, Janice Hoppenreys, said she anticipated this year will come close to a complete sell out. “I think it just shows that people are really excited about the Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival and really look forward to it each year. We’re seeing early sell outs…it’s a fun popular event,” she said. While this year’s festival won’t see any new event additions, it

FRIDAY DECEMBER 21, JANUARY 4, 11, 18 FRIDAY RACE SERIES

Regardless of ability everyone is encouraged to enter the recreational, fun-for everyone (boarders and skiers) event. Registration and bib pick-up is in the Village Day Lodge Breezeway from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

will welcome four new wineries: Da Silva Vineyards and Winery, Liber Farm and Winery, Pipe Dreams Winery and Stoneboat Vineyards. Each will participate in a mix of the Progressive Tasting, the Wine Crawl and the Starbucks Brunch. With a selection of events from brunch to blind tastings and an in home concert to a moonlight snowshoe & mulled wine adventure, there’s a wide variety to choose from. As events are selling out quickly, Hoppenreys advised those who want to attend purchase tickets soon. Sold out events include Comforts of Grilled Cheese and Wine, Dinner with Cheese, Explorer Series, The Best of British Columbia Wine & Cheeses, The British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Awards Tutored Dinner and Mixology to Music. Despite the popularity of the festival, this will be the last year the festival will be held in January. Hoppenreys confirmed Sun Peaks will hold a wine festival in 2020 but the time hasn’t yet been set. “Due to the resort being busier in January it will move to a tobe-determined-date in 2020.” Tickets and a schedule of

will all host Christmas meals throughout the day. www.sunpeaksresort.com

MONDAY DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNERS

250 578 5474

Enjoy a NYE dinner with friends and family at Sun Peaks Lodge or Mantles Restaurant.

SATURDAY TO MONDAY DECEMBER 22 TO 24 ACTIVITIES WITH SANTA

www.sunpeaksresort.com

Don’t miss your chance to ski, skate and share breakfast with Santa. 250 578 5474

SUNDAY & MONDAY DECEMBER 23 & 24 CAROLLING IN THE VILLAGE WITH NANCY GREENE

Join Nancy Greene and bring some holiday cheer to the village. Meet at the Village Day Lodge at 6:30 p.m.ut to Sun Valley Farms to our annual Pumpkin Patch. 250 578 5474

MONDAY DECEMBER 24 ROMAN CATHOLIC CHRISTMAS MASS

A special Christmas Eve service will be held in the Sun Peaks Grand Ballroom from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. 250 572 6151

TUESDAY DECEMBER 25 CHRISTMAS DINNER

Cahilty Creek Kitchen & Tap Room, Mantles Restaurant, Sun Peaks Lodge Steakhouse, Masa’s Bar +Grill and the Sun Peaks Grand

MONDAY DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS

Don’t miss the biggest night of the year in Sun Peaks. Kicking off with the First Flight Big Air Invitational followed by the Kids Glow Stick Parade, Torchlight Parade and finally a Fireworks Show. Events run 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. 250 578 5474

MONDAY DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA

Ring in the New Year at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner buffet and dance in the Grand Ballroom. specialevents@sunpeaksgrand.com

MONDAY DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Celebrate New Year’s Eve slopeside at Masa’s Bar + Grill from 7:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. 250 578 5434

WINE FESTIVALS HAVE PROVEN POPULAR AT SUN PEAKS OVER THE YEARS . Photo SPIN

events can be found at www. sunpeaksresort.com.

MONDAY DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE SNOWSHOE MARSHMALLOW ROAST

Enjoy a Moonlight Snowshoe Tour, with a stop at a campfire where you can toast up some S’mores with friends and family. Tour operates 6:15 p.m. until 9:15 p.m. 250 578 5542

MONDAY DECEMBER 31 KRIS RUSTON & ALEX WARD

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live music at Cahilty Creek Kitchen & Tap Room 250 434 0279

SATURDAY & SUNDAY JANAURY 5 & 6 GLEN BOND NORDIC SKI CAMP

A camp all about you. Learn classic or skate skiing, camp includes video analysis, trail pass, lunch and a souvenir. 250 309 2611

SUNDAY JANUARY 6 SYMPHONY OF SNOW CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT Enjoy an intimate performance in an exquisite setting at the Pinnacle Lodge in Sun Peaks. This performance features musicians from the Kamloops Symphony and Chamber Ensemble. All proceeds go to the Sun Peaks Education Society. From 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. sunpeakseducation@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY TO THURSDAY JANUARY 11 TO 20 21ST ANNUAL SUN PEAKS WINTER

EVENT LISTINGS OKANAGAN WINE FESTIVAL

Whether you’re just starting to explore wine blends or consider yourself a connoisseur there’s an event waiting for you to discover. www.sunpeaksresort.com

SATURDAY JANUARY 12 SUN PEAKS FAMILY CUP ALPINE RACE

The annual Sun Peaks Family Cup ‘All-Nations Celebration’ returns for its 13th year. Event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 250 578 5474

SATURDAY JANUARY 19 AVALANCHE AWARENESS & SNOW SAFTEY DAY

PLANNING A COMMUNITY EVENT? ADD IT TO OUR EVENT LISTINGS AT SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM

Sun Peaks Ski Patrol and Snow Saftey team up for Avalanche Awareness & Snow Saftey day, including live demos and rescue challenges. 250 578 5474

TUESDAY TO THURSDAY JANUARY 22 TO 24 AIR NATION

Sun Peaks is the first stop on the Air Nation Freestyle Tour 2019, with slopestyle and big air competitions. Registration closes at midnight on January 20. admin@bcsnowboard.com

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

BUSINESS LISTINGS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

SERVICES

Pain / alignment concerns with hiking, running & skiing

250.314.1203 progressivestep.ca

Your Fireplace Experts Professional Service & Repairs Fireplace Replacement Specialists 1200 Battle Street, Kamloops 250-372-3424 www.fireplacecentre.com

Residential and Commercial Security

Excavating Ltd. •

Excavating & Snow Clearing

•

Landscape Rock/Granite

•

1”—4”, 4”—12”, 5”—18”, Sand, Pitrun

•

1” Crush

(250) 374-2577 kamloopsalarm.com

Greg: 250 371 7800 • gzieb@telus.net

Looking for a business or service in Sun Peaks? Check out our online business directory at:

local.sunpeaksnews.com

“PROTECTING SUN PEAKS FOR OVER 25 YEARS”

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

YOUR OPINIONS, COMMENTS OR COMMENDATIONS ARE WELCOME Send your letters & opinions by mail to: Sun Peaks Independent News Box 1043 Sun Peaks, B.C. V0E 5N0 or by e-mail: editor@sunpeaksnews.com All correspondence must contain a last name & a contact number for verification—phone numbers won’t be published. Writers are encouraged to keep letters to 250 or fewer words. Letters submitted without the writer’s name won’t be published. Sun Peaks Independent News reserves the right to edit letters for length, style, legality & taste. Letters not published in Sun Peaks Independent News may be published online at www.sunpeaksnews.com

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/CLASSIFIED

SODOKU

ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS ADS ARE PLACED DAILY

SOLVE THIS CROSSWORD

EDITED BY MARGIE E. BURKE EDITED BY MARGIE E. BURKE

CROSSWORD ANSWERS V16I12

ANSWERS CAN BE FOUND IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SPIN

HOUSE FOR SALE Brand New Ready July 1 2019, Whitecroft Village, 1720SF two level Duplex (one side), Finished upper floor with 2 bd 1 Bath and an open design, Unfinished Basement, 12’ X 20’ Garage, 68,640 SF lot, 12’ X 6’ covered upper deck, 2/5/10 warranty provider, 8 min to Sun Peaks and Heffley Lake, Pick your interior colours now, $399,000 + gst, Serious inquires only please: darryl2002@shaw.ca.

SODOKU ANSWERS V16I12

FOR RENT Heffley lake One bedroom, shared accommodations, fully furnished/stocked newly renovated 2 level waterfront home, all utilities, TV, wifi, no pets, Nov 1 to March 30th $650 month. Must vacate Dec 22 to Jan 6. Call for details 1-604-626-7100.

OBITUARY Uli Pahlevan was born in Germany on September 25 1966 and died in Kamloops on September 18 2018 from complications following a stroke. She was 51 years old. Uli is survived by the love of her life, Francesco, her mother Erika, her sisters Karin and Suzanne, as well as many friends from around the world. Uli and Francesco met in Cologne and it did not take long for Uli to fall for that handsome movie star. He swooped her off her feet and together they came to Canada where they purchased, rebuilt and operated Meadow Lake Fishing Camp. Uli was perfect for that pioneer lifestyle. She was a master cook in the kitchen, enjoying fishing and the great outdoor. She could split a cord of wood, knit and sew, play piano and built a log cabin... so much energy from a pint size lady. She was witty, funny and generous. We will all miss her. You are invited to celebrate her too short life Monday, January 7th at 6pm at Voyageur Bistro in Sun Peaks. Please rsvp to meadowlake@xplornet.com.

Do you enjoy our puzzles? Too easy? Too hard?

LET US KNOW! Send your thoughts to:

editor@sunpeaksnews.com

or phone 250 578 0276

WINTER Weather Forecast DECEMBER 21 - 31

Snow showers, then sunny, cold

JANUARY 1 - 10

Snow showers, cold turning to mild

JANUARY 11 - 16

Showers and flurries, mild

JANUARY 17 - 22 Rain, mild

JANUARY 23 - 24 Rain and snow, cold

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

A moonlit trek in the mountains NIKKI FREDRIKSON

IT’S SIX O’CLOCK. THE LIFTS HAVE STOPPED TURNING. THE VILLAGE HAS BECOME QUIETER AND THE ONLY SOUND HEARD IS THE FAINT HUM OF THE SNOW GROOMERS AT WORK. WHILE MOST PEOPLE ARE HAVING DINNER OR MAKING PLANS FOR THE MORNING, I FOUND MYSELF HEADING OUT ON MY OWN ADVENTURE, A MOONLIGHT SNOWSHOE TOUR. Leaving from the trailhead just beyond the covered bridge, myself and nine others followed our tour guide, Shan out on the trail for our one kilometre trek. At first, I was a bit unsure if I would enjoy the tour as I went alone and in my mind it seemed like an activity to do with friends and family. As we continued along the trail, I realized it was the perfect activity for a solo trekker or a large group of friends. Deciding to turn my headlamp off and let the moonlight guide my path, I felt myself relax listening to the sound of snow crunching underneath. Passing the former horse stable, Shan told us the history of the barn and why the horses were moved after a heavy snowfall in ’91 started to deteriorate the roof.

Rounding the corner we came across fresh powder where we had the opportunity to race through it. Opting out, I continued on chatting with some of the others. Our conversation was interrupted by a sudden burst of giggling and I looked over to see that the source was the youngest member of our group, a seven-year-old boy lying in the snow with his boot and snowshoe a few feet away from him. While the other kids continued on racing, Shan just shook her head and went to help, laughing while she said that she’d never had that happen before. Once everyone was settled back on the packed trail, we began our ascent into the trees. We stopped at a snow cave where Shan explained how they’re used as snow shelters during winter storms. Letting the light from the others’ headlamps light the trail we went deeper and deeper into the trees and the village disappeared behind us. Making it to a clearing which housed a camp, Shan lit a fire for us to make s’mores. As the fire began crackling, we sipped hot apple cider and roasted maybe one too many marshmallows before continuing on our adventure.

THE GROUP STOPPED AT THE SNOWSHOE CAMP TO GATHER AROUND A FIRE AND ROAST MARSHMALLOWS. Photo SPIN

Shan stopped us at one of my personal favourite viewpoints in Sun Peaks, a spot where you can see the entire village both east and west with a great view of the groomers working on Mt. Tod. Our guide explained the future development plans and the work on the Orient Ridge expansion. The group was excited about where Sun Peaks is headed and the conversation turned to which runs everyone was planning

to ski the next morning. Just before the end of the tour our group went off the beaten track and “ran” down a hill, meaning most of us slipped and rolled down with laughter echoing through the air. The kids began making snow angels and I realized it’s the perfect activity for anyone, whether they’re just visiting or a resident of the community, it’s a chance to create a vacation from your everyday.

Not convinced to take a tour but still wanting to hit the trails? Shan recommended beginner snowshoers take the pink trail and loop back on the yellow trail which can be found on the snowshoe map provided at the activity centre. If you’re looking for something more technical check out the green trail that loops around the west village.

but the result is something I’m really happy with it.” Featured rider Geremy Guido said once you progress as far as you can go on the mountain there’s only one way to go and that’s getting creative. “I guess the streets is the only way to do that,” said Guido. Relying on creativity the crew took to the streets of Kamloops, using a winch so they weren’t limited to hills to when it came to tricks. “There’s not much room for error, anything goes wrong there’s nowhere for people to go. It’s insanely precise. When you see a video of people doing it you don’t see the three hours

of trying that went into the one clip they got,” said Hallderijke. “They make it look really easy.” Both Hallderijke and Guido agreed the style of riding has made them look at things differently and added they’re always looking for new spots. “You need a run in, you need to get speed, and then you need a landing which isn’t onto a road, usually because there’s cars on roads,” explained Hallderijke. Wanting to do more than just a film premiere, the crew decided to host their first event, an open rail jam, on the beginner area at Sun Peaks to prelude the film.

“We wanted to do a rail jam at Sun Peaks because this is where our home mountain is, this is where we started. We thought it’d be something cool to start off the season and bring something to Sun Peaks that they’ve never really had before,” said Guido. “It’s after the mountain closes (for the day) so we figured something for people to do after they’re done riding and then just tag along straight into the premiere right after,” he said. The open jam format had 46 competitors ride under the lights and showcase their skills.

Taking to the streets NIKKI FREDRIKSON

IT’S A MATTER OF BEING CREATIVE, DODGING BYLAW, MAKING SURE PROPERTY OWNERS ARE OKAY WITH IT AND HAVING SNOW AT THE SAME TIME,” SAID LIAM HALLDERIJKE, FILM EDITOR AND MEMBER OF THE PUT IT IN THE BOWL CREW, WHOSE NEW EDIT PREMIERED ON DEC. 1 FOLLOWING THE SEASON’S FIRST RAIL JAM. Progressing past what local terrain parks could offer, the group of snowboarders formed what can only be described as

a street crew where they push each other past their limits and find untouched and unconventional areas of snow in Kamloops to ride. The crew debuted their first feature film, Uno Mas, at Masa’s Bar + Grill. Having produced a variety of short videos of their snowboarding pursuits, the group of nine (including six featured riders and a few friends) set out to produce the 25 minute film. “I think I said it once and everyone was like ‘ah yeah let’s make a movie.’ Three, four months later in the middle of winter, cool alright we’re making a movie,” said Hallderijke. “People got hurt, it got pretty gnarly there,

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Provincial U16 females take part in first all girls ski camp NIKKI FREDRIKSON

EVERY YEAR MORE FEMALE ATHLETES DROP OUT OF ORGANIZED SPORTS DURING WHAT BC ALPINE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR JOHNNY CRICHTON RECOGNIZES AS A TIME WHEN TEENS ARE MAKING CRITICAL DECISIONS ABOUT THEIR FUTURE. THE DECLINE OF GIRLS CONTINUING IN SPORTS INSPIRED CRICHTON AND HIS TEAM OF B.C. COACHES TO CREATE GIRLS FAST FORWARD, THE FIRST PROVINCIALLY RUN ALLGIRLS CAMP IN CANADA. “I thought as a PSO ( Provincial Sport Organization) we should adopt this model and see if we can do something for our own membership,” he said. Hoping for 40 participants in the inaugural camp, which ran Dec. 5 to 9 at Sun Peaks, they were pleased when 56 girls in the U16 division registered for the weekend. “We (had) almost every single registered U16 in the province here which is really exciting,” he said. The camp aimed to reduce pressure placed on athletes and build friendships as it recognized the age group as when most girls drop out of ski racing and training. “We were putting so much pressure on performance at that age which is ridiculous. I wholeheartedly disagree with it. I really believe in building strong athletic foundations at this age and try to grow the passion and a love for the sport. That’s we’re trying to do with this camp.” Focusing on the idea of empowerment, the coaches were accomplished women from across the province, including Britt Janyk Tilston

(World Cup winner and Olympian), Dani Robson, Katie Findlay and former Sun Peaks Alpine Club program director, Montana Molyneux. “Personally for me, I had a lot of awesome female role models growing up and in ski racing,” she said. “I had a few female coaches that were amazing that I still remember to this day, how they coached and how much fun they were and still keep in touch with them. I’ve been in the coaching world now in ski racing for eight or nine years, and there’s a lack of female role models or females to look up to.” She said if she’s experienced challenges being one of the only female coaches in the province she can only imagine how younger girls in the sport see female coaches excel. “I think it’s even crazier to have all these girls here looking up to all these female coaches. If one of the 56 said, hey I want to coach, or I want to keep racing because that looks like something cool to do, (then) we did a good job,” she said. The camp focused on technical slalom and giant slalom skills but they also brought in successful female speakers from other disciplines to speak on a variety of topics. “All we wanted to do was create an environment for girls to come in to connect with other girls and to also be able to share and fail and try again and succeed, and it wasn’t all just based off your athletic ability,” she said. After the two year commitment to the program, both Molyneux and Crichton plan for the

camp to run annually for many years to come.

“I can’t see how I can’t keep it going because it’s

going to be instrumental in our sport,” said Crichton.

A GROUP OF 56 U16 ALPINE SKIERS GATHERED AT SUN PEAKS RESORT FOR THE GIRLS FAST FORWARD CAMP. Photo Supplied

MONTANA MOLYNEUX THIRD IN FROM THE RIGHT WAS AMONG THE GROUP OF COACHES SPEARHEADING THE CAMP. Photo Supplied

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Always improving NIKKI FREDRIKSON

IN THEIR QUEST TO BE THE BEST SKI SCHOOL IN CANADA, SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP’S FOUR CANADIAN SKI INSTRUCTORS’ ALLIANCE (CSIA) LEVEL FOUR INSTRUCTORS TRAVELLED TO BANFF, ALTA. TO FURTHER THEIR SKILLS AT COURSE CONDUCTOR TRAINING AT THE CSIA MEMBER CONVENTION NOV. 25 TO 28. “We look at it as an investment in the future development, by having people that are really well trained it’s going to be better training at the staff level and that training will trickle down to the product that our staff are delivering to guest on the mountain,” said Ron Betts, sport school technical co-ordinator and attendee of the November convention. Having been an instructor at the resort for 26 years, Anne Terwiel has attended the convention many times. She described the event as an opportunity to meet colleagues, share best practices and get

excited about the new season. “The thing I’m most excited about was we were sharing our own best practices in terms of how we teach,” she said. “So we were grouped at tables of eight or 10, we were encouraged to talk about delivery methods or drills or things that we do that really work well for us.” Terwiel recognized the experience as an opportunity to benchmark themselves and learn from others who are teaching at a high level. “You come back with your toolkit more full and your old tools completely refurbished.” This year’s course conductor training focused on the CSIA’s new science and skiing manual which features on biomechanics, physics and skiing. “The committee worked with people who work in those areas of study. Not ski instructors necessarily but professors of physics and kinesiology and made sure everything is described exactly as it happens when someone is moving across a slippery surface on a ski,” she explained. Another concept brought

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

Ski instructors return from CSIA training

A TOTAL OF 80 CSIA MEMBERS TOOK PART IN THIS YEAR’S MEMBER CONVENTION IN BANFF . Photo Supplied

forward in their discussion and coursework was the importance of having a student-centered approach to teaching and ensuring they’re looking at the needs, capabilities and goals of the student and building a lesson around the individual. “Good teachers have always done that but now it’s really quantified as this is what excellent teaching is, this is

what you must do. So it’s not just the few who would be student-centered. It’s the many now and I think working in that environment is really exciting,” said Terwiel. Along with the Level four instructors, Sun Peaks also had eight of the Level threes and one Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors Level four and five Level three

instructors attend their own course conductor training to share their experience with the level twos and ones going forward “We can be really really proud of our senior level threes and fours in terms of the learning environment they’re creating for everybody else who works here and has fun here,” said Terwiel.

VOT E F O R S U N P E A K ’ S BE S T OF 2019 No one knows Sun Peaks better than our readers, so cast your vote on the things that represent the best of the best. Make sure your favourites make it to the finals. Nominations begin January 8th, 2019 and close January 20th, 2019. The three finalists for each category will be revealed and polls will open once again for the final round of voting on January 28th, 2019. We will announce the winners on February 11th, 2019.

C A S T YO U R VO T E A N D G ET A L L T HE D E TAI LS AT W WW.SU W W.SU N P EA K SAWA R DS. C OM

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

Wishing you a Happy Holiday and a Joyful New Year!

Serving Sun Peaks and area since 1995

ALPINE RESORT REALTY

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

OPEN DAILY - LOCATED IN THE KOOKABURRA LODGE T: 250 578 8222 TF: 1 800 663 2838 E: info@sunpeaksrealty.com

SOLD 2220 SUNBURST DRIVE | $889, 000 Fantastic location for skiers! This spectacular family home, just minutes to skiing, features 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and panoramic views to both Tod and Morrisey. Sunny southern exposure is great for warmth in the winter. Gather with friends for après ski in the family room, the kitchen, or in the formal living room; each room features a cozy fireplace. Bright selfcontained spacious 2 bedroom suite in the basement. This property is offered fully furnished with hot tub; GST paid.

#29 TIMBERLINE VILLAGE | $239,900 Take advantage of the central location and easy ski-in, ski-out access from this ground floor studio suite in charming Timberline Village. Ready to enjoy this winter, this mountain retreat comes fully outfitted with custom made queen sized Murphy bed, cozy rock faced gas fireplace, full kitchen with modified island creating extra space for entertaining, 3 piece bath, heated tile floors in kitchen & bathroom, and private patio backing onto tranquil green belt. Offered fully furnished; GST not applicable.

SOLD 2456 FAIRWAYS DRIVE | $849,000 Original custom design! Beautifully crafted two bedroom (potential for 3) home on the 3rd fairway of the Sun Peaks Golf Course. Contemporary open floor plan with 17 foot ceilings offers a gallery, modern prep kitchen with large sink and plenty of cabinet space, plus a second kitchen with dual wall ovens, induction cooktop, wine fridge, bar sink, “live edge” island counter top and induction cook top. Two car garage with a legal self-contained 2 bedroom ‘carriage house’ located above with full kitchen and separate laundry. GST not applicable.

NEW LISTING

#214 HEARTHSTONE LODGE | $48,900 Ski-in / ski-out location in the heart of Sun Peaks Village. Spacious deluxe studio suite offered fully furnished. Comfortably sleeps 4 and features full kitchen and cozy fireplace. This condo hotel property features 180 days of owners personal use and features 2 hot tubs, fitness facility and underground parking. Skiing and golf are mere steps from your front door. Offered fully furnished; GST applicable.

#415 COAST SUNDANCE LODGE | $49,900

#10 ALPINE GREENS | $469,000

Spectacular views of Mount Morrissey from this deluxe 4th floor studio with great sense of space due to extra high ceilings. This property features the warmth of a fireplace, efficiency kitchen with 2 burner cook top, a queen bed and double bed. Complex amenities include an exercise room and outdoor hot tub. Owners personal use up to 180 days per year. Professional management in place by Coast Hotels. Just a short stroll out your front door to skiing, golf, Village shops & restaurants! Offered fully furnished; GST is applicable.

Bright and spacious condo with 2 beds plus office and den! Sunny Golf Course location is beautiful in both summer and winter, with views of Mt. Morrisey and easy ski-in access via the street. Features heated tile floors in kitchen and baths, cozy wood burning fireplace with beautiful fieldstone & timber mantle, natural wood raised panel cabinetry with walk-in pantry, private sundeck, 2 balconies, extra storage space, Jacuzzi tub and walk-in closet. Largely furnished, 3 parking spaces, quick occupancy avail. GST is not applicable.

SOLD

#217 COAST SUNDANCE LODGE | $30,000 This studio suite features an efficiency kitchen, cozy corner fireplace, fully furnished and sleeps 4 comfortably. Slopeside accommodation in the heart of Sun Peaks Resort! Outdoor hot tub, exercise room secure underground parking. Owner’s personal use is 180 days anytime during the year; rental management agreement in place with Coast Hotels. GST applies.

#259/261 CAHILTY HOTEL & SUITES |

NEW LISTING

SOLD #50 SETTLER’S CROSSING | $419,900 Ski-in, ski-out 2 bedroom fully furnished end unit with rich hardwood flooring, luxurious granite countertops, and heated tile floors in the kitchen and bath. Adjacent to the new chairlift under construction, ready for ski season! Bright open floor plan with cozy gas fireplace and direct access to your private covered deck, along with sufficient owner storage space and secure heated underground parking. Zoning permits short term rentals, easy access to the Nordic trails, village amenities are just a short walk away. GST is not applicable.

#423 FIRESIDE LODGE | $269,000 Bright & cozy top floor studio with prime ski-in, ski-out access through the inner village with restaurants and shopping right at your doorstep. Everything you need, complete with full kitchen overlooking the dining area; living area with river rock fireplace. Features shared laundry, inviting lobby with lounge and fireplace, elevator, secure underground parking, outdoor hot tub and spacious storage room for skis and bikes. Unlimited owner use for convenient year round or recreational living. Offered furnished with GST paid.

SOLD

NEW LISTING

#164 CAHILTY HOTEL & SUITES | $92,500 Fabulous ground floor studio apartment with full kitchen and expansive mountain & Village views. Enjoy the slope side location with ski-in, ski-out access, offered fully furnished with brand new murphy bed which is set up as the perfect couples retreat. Located on the end of the complex, the extra windowing on the south wall provides a bright, warm and inviting space. Unlimited owner use with professional in-house management team in place, and so much more! GST paid.

2581 MOUNTAINVIEW DRIVE | $262,500 Residential building lot conveniently located at the base of Mt. Morrisey with great ski-in access and stunning mountain views. Quiet cul-de-sac location backing onto forested ski terrain. With no time limit to build out you can relax & take time to plan your perfect mountain getaway. Design guidelines in place and zoning allows fora two bedroom legal revenue suite. Underground services installed to the lot line. GST is not applicable.

SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 24

VOL 16 ISSUE 13 DECEMBER 21 — JANUARY 24

$199,000

Enjoy one of the best ski-in, ski-out locations Sun Peaks has to offer, along with unlimited owner use at the Cahilty Hotel & Suites.Beautiful & practical at the same time, this fully furnished one bedroom lock-off features a full kitchen with cozy corner fireplace, new Murphy bed plus pull-out sofa on one side and two queens with an additional full bath on the other side. Appreciate easy access out your door, truly an attractive family get-away and great investment; GST applicable.