Sun Peaks Independent News - Volume 20 Issue 1 by Sun Peaks Independent News

January 21 - February 17, 2022

Vol. 20, Issue 1

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12.

3 Mtn Tour to raise money for new school. Local couple listed in ski program’s Hall of Fame.

A fresh view on Top of the World during an inversion on a January day. Photo Zuzy Rocka.

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IN THIS ISSUE

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.

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LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

SUN PEAKS CARGO FILLS IMPORTANT COMMUNITY ROLE DURING PANDEMIC

Resort sees less visitors over the holidays and Heffley Lake creates website.

6 BRANDI SCHIER Publisher & Managing Editor brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

KAYLA EMPEY Community Journalist kayla@sunpeaksnews.com

SONIA GARCÍA Layout & Graphic Designer sonia@sunpeaksnews.com

LOCAL COUPLE LISTED IN SKI PROGRAM’S HALL OF FAME Husband and wife recognized for career success.

8 NEW AVALANCHE TRAINING AREA NOW OPEN Community members and visitors can practice their avalanche rescue skills.

12 3 MTN TOUR TO RAISE MONEY FOR NEW SCHOOL The event will feature a self-guided tour of the three mountains.

The grocery delivery service became a valuable tool to those isolating.

22 BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTION ON THE SLOPES Featuring the community Polar and Grizzly Bear ski clubs.

24 BUSINESS LISTINGS & PUZZLES

26 NORDIC SKI CHALLENGE KICKS OFF THE SEASON The challenge aims to get community members excited about cross country skiing.

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local news

RESORT SEES IMPACT OF COLD SNAP, SMALL ADJUSTMENTS DUE TO COVID-19 CASES

HEFFLEY LAKE ASSOCIATION CREATES WEBSITE, SHARES HISTORY OF AREA

By Kayla Empey

As a result of the cold snap, the resort shut down certain chairlifts and delayed operations until later in the mornings. Photo by Zuzy Rocka.

They plan to add need-to-know information to the website, such as fire bans and thin ice warnings. Photo by Kyle James.

Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) saw fewer visitors over the holidays due to the recent cold snap, and contined to operate with minor adjustments despite several staff in self-isolation. Christina Antoniak, SPR’s director of communications, said the resort had already experienced several cancellations over the holidays due to highway closures to the Lower Mainland, and the cold weather only furthered reduced visitation. “We were down about 60 per cent in what we would have projected for skier visits over that holiday period,” said Antoniak. “We just didn't see that more last minute pickup in skiers coming from the local and regional market that we have over the holidays because of the cold temperatures.” Factoring in the windchill, Antoniak said the temperatures reached -30C to -40C. As a result, SPR shut down certain chairlifts and delayed operations until later in the mornings. Antoniak said when it gets that cold, it not only hinders SPR’s ability to get the lifts running, but also adds risk if guests had to be evacuated off lifts in those temperatures. “A lot of people were very unaffected by the temperatures, so those folks were certainly still out there and happy,” said Antoniak. “But we just didn't see that fill in that we'd normally see over those two weeks, which is unfortunate. We really needed it.” On Dec. 29, SPR also announced that there were multiple cases of COVID-19 in the community and that there might be operational impacts as a result of staff isolating. The province is currently experiencing a surge in the Omicron variant. Antoniak said the resort’s operations were minimally affected aside from small adjustments. “Where we've seen some adjustments have been in the hours and menu items that we've been able to offer at food and beverage outlets,” said Antoniak. “Really everything else from a guest perspective is operating quite well at this time.” Antoniak said the resort’s protocols require staff to complete a daily health check at the beginning of each shift and if they are feeling any COVID-19 symptoms, they must return home and continue to follow public health orders. SPR and the Sun Peaks Community Health Centre are following current health orders from Interior Health on how long to isolate for and when to get a COVID-19 test. If someone is experiencing mild symptoms, Interior Health advises managing symptoms at home without a test. Interior Health recommends a test if the person is experiencing fever or chills, cough, loss of sense of smell or taste, or difficulty breathing. A test is also recommended if a person has experienced two or more of the following symptoms for over 24 hours with no improvement: sore throat, loss of appetite, headache, extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Self-isolation requirements for those who are fully vaccinated is five days if symptoms have improved and a fever has been resolved for 24 hours. No self-isolation or testing is required for close contacts of someone who has tested positive. “This is a reminder to everyone–guests, employees and residents– to follow best practices and government policies to help prevent the spread of the virus,” said Antoniak.

The Heffley Lake Community Association (HLCA) has created a website to help share important information, events, contacts and history with the community. Fergus Alexander, president of HLCA, said the association began thinking about creating a website in the past year. “We appreciated that most newcomers to the area Google search first and we wanted an avenue to reach out to them about Heffley Lake,” said Alexander in an email to SPIN. Currently, there are 103 parcels of land on the lake, most lots being for home ownership. Before the website, HLCA only had Facebook groups to reach residents of the area. “Presently the website is a work in progress,” said Alexander. “We have initially included boating safety tips and recently added part one of the history of the lake.” Alexander said in the future they hope to add more need-to-know information to the website, such as fire bans and thin ice warnings. He said it is also important to HLCA to include history on the website to share the origin of sites in the area. “We have always had an informal history of Heffley Lake which was not available to all,” Alexander said. “We have two members that have expanded on the subject and now it is more complete. The subject is significant to our members and we wanted to share with all.” The first chapter of the history explains how Heffley Lake came to be named. Originally called Bourdignon Creek, and then later Edwards Creek, Heffley Lake was officially named after Adam Heffley. The website says that Heffley came to British Columbia as a mining prospector in 1865, but died suddenly from a heart attack in 1872. Alongside the establishment of the post office in 1905, the area, creek and lake were officially renamed to Heffley. The first chapter also discusses the naming and history of other creeks and springs in the area. Alexander said the second chapter is currently in the works.

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local news

The Averys have been recognized for their many years in the ski industry and career success By Kayla Empey

Stephanie and Doug have lived in Sun Peaks for 16 years. Photo provided.

LOCAL COUPLE LISTED IN SKI PROGRAM’S HALL OF FAME Sun Peaks residents and Selkirk College alumni Doug and Stephanie Avery have both been inducted into the ski resort operations and management (SROAM) program’s Hall of Fame, recognized as “outstanding industry leaders.” Doug and Stephanie, the only married couple in the Hall of Fame, were chosen based on years in the industry and career success. “It was a very neat program. It's served us really well, so it means a lot,” said Stephanie. “It's definitely a lifestyle that we wanted, and Doug and I thought it was important.” The Averys have lived in Sun Peaks with their two daughters since 2006. Doug worked as maintenance manager for the Grand Hotel & Conference Centre for 16 years, winning awards for his contribution in developing the sustainability program, before retiring last September. Stephanie has worked for Tourism Sun Peaks for 13 years, working her way up to her current position as director of finance and administration. “In grade eight I remember joking with the guidance teacher, I want to be a ski bum,” said Doug. “They didn't advise me that was a very successful career goal. So I ended up working in the Rockies for a bit, went to [British Columbia Institute of Technology] and took the hotel restaurant management program.” 6

Later, while working at Grouse Mountain, Doug spoke with a colleague who had taken the SROAM program at Selkirk College and did a practicum in Japan. Upon realizing this could be an opportunity to visit Japan, Doug applied for the program. Stephanie also found out about the program through a friend who attended the school. Having grown up in Montreal, she wanted to travel. So when she heard about the program, she thought it was a great opportunity to get an education and also move out west. “I didn't know anything about the Japan thing until I actually got to Selkirk and they said that was an opportunity to do my practicum,” said Stephanie. “I remember just telling my parents ‘oh I don't think B.C. is far enough, I’m going to Japan now.’ And that's where Doug and I met.” After completing the two years required to get their SROAM diploma, Doug and Stephanie began their search to find employment that could sustain them year-round. They soon found themselves with jobs at Blackcomb Mountain (before it merged with Whistler), due to a connection Doug had from working at Grouse Mountain. Doug began his after-graduation career by being a janitor, and Stephanie a receptionist. But with time, Doug became

the building services manager—the first person to hold this position at a ski resort in all of North America. Stephanie quickly transferred to accounting for Blackcomb’s hotels, but soon after became pregnant with their first child and put her career on hold. “We actually looked at coming to Sun Peaks back in 1995,” said Stephanie. “We just came to visit and we did the full tour, but we just didn't feel there was enough yet to, you know, take that chance.” A few years later, the Averys ended up moving all the way to St. Andrews, New Brunswick, when Doug accepted a new hotel maintenance manager position. They were there for six years, until they finally decided to move to Sun Peaks in 2006. “We wanted to get back into a ski resort type setting,” said Stephanie. “Our kids, you know, we were driving almost three hours to a small little ski hill in New Brunswick just to get them the opportunity to ski.” The Averys said their daughters ended up working for Sun Peaks Resort LLP, in the hotel in the summers and ski instructing in the winter. But eventually, they moved on to get their bachelors of science and are currently completing their masters degrees. “Even though our girls are not going in that same path kind of thing, they ski a lot and they love the outdoors. That was important to us as a family,” said Stephanie. Now having been settled in Sun Peaks for a long time, the Averys said they really appreciate the fundamentals they were taught during the SROAM program that helped get them to where they are. “It's neat to see the different paths all the other people have taken to have successful careers,” said Doug. “The one thing we've all done is we've all started at the bottom, right? Janitor, receptionist, you talk to any of the other SROAMies, same thing.” “It's kind of special,” added Stephanie. “It's a neat group of people that we still don't see very often, but when we do see it's a really great time to catch up. And you may not have gone to school the same year as the people but it’s such a tight industry.”

Stephanie and Doug met during the SROAM program. Photo provided.

local news

The Mountain Rescue Society donates a free-to-use rescue training basin and equipment By Kayla Empey

NEW AVALANCHE TRAINING AREA NOW OPEN Mark said SPMRS members identified an avalanche training beacon basin as a need for Sun Peaks a couple of years ago, and the society is happy to now have it in place and ready to use. “Avalanche danger is becoming more of an inherent risk with backcountry skiing,” said Mark. “With COVID as well, more and more people are venturing out into the backcountry, so it presents an interesting mix of potential dangers.” Mark said SPMRS hopes the area and equipment gets used a lot, by both new and experienced backcountry enthusiasts. He added that the window of time to locate and rescue someone is only about 15 minutes, so it is important to keep practising those skills. “Often we take for granted that we haven't done that sort of training for a while,” said Mark. “It's such a playground out in the backcountry and you’re having such fun, but you forget how serious it is.” To get more people involved, SPMRS will also be running competitions throughout the winter and will be giving out prizes for whoever can undig beacons the quickest. Keep an eye on SPMRS’s Facebook page for further updates. Anyone who would like to donate to SPMRS can do so by scanning the QR code located at the basin.

The Sun Peaks beacon basin. Photo from Sun Peaks Mountain Rescue Society on Facebook.

Sun Peaks Mountain Rescue Society (SPMRS) has created and donated an avalanche training area for Sun Peaks Resort LPP to allow community members and visitors to practice their avalanche rescue skills before heading out into the backcountry. The new training beacon basin is located at the top of the Sunburst chairlift and is free to use. Chris Mark, president of SPMRS, said this resource is important because there is a decent amount of backcountry accessed off the top of the resort. “There’s out of bounds that people access quite regularly,” said Mark. “And this year in particular, the avalanche conditions are really, really bad. So it's nice to practice your skills and keep them up to date.” The training allows backcountry participants to practice using a transceiver to find buried beacons. Once located, they can strike them with a probe and dig them out. There are eight buried beacons around the area, but which beacons are turned on changes each day so the course is always different. “The ski patrol is all proficient in training, so just feel free to ask ski patrol for any advice or tips on how to use it,” said Mark.

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local news

For 2022, SPRTA is hoping to reach over 400 members. Photo from Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association on Facebook.

The organization is planning for an eventful summer, and is looking for support By Kayla Empey

RECREATIONAL TRAIL ASSOCIATION LAUNCHES ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association (SPRTA) has begun their annual membership drive and is looking for people to become members for 2022. Sam Loxton, president of SPRTA, said as a non-profit organization, the association offers the community the opportunity to become paid members. Loxton said this is important for SPRTA for a couple of reasons. “The main big one for us is the fundraising aspect,” said Loxton. “From those membership sales, we get funds that are then used for things like insurance, they go into tool maintenance or tool replacement, and trail maintenance.” Loxton said membership is also important as a way to show the government, the resort and grant programs that SPRTA has strong support within the community. “If we have lots of members and a really big, strong membership base, we can say ‘look, we have this high proportion of people in our community that are behind us and supporting what we want to do,’” said Loxton. “That helps us when it comes to asking for fundraising support and permission to build more trails.” Memberships run annually from January to December. Loxton said in 2020, SPRTA had about 275 members. In 2021, that number jumped to 388. For 2022, they are hoping to reach over 400 members. Loxton said although many members live in Sun Peaks, they also have members from Kamloops or the Lower Mainland who have houses in Sun Peaks and like to visit in the summer. 10

“But considering Sun Peaks is a pretty small community, it's pretty amazing to have almost 400 people sign up as members of SPRTA,” said Loxton. Becoming part of the organization also has its own benefits for the member. Loxton said members receive voting rights at the annual general meeting, can participate in events, and receive other perks such as discounts at stores. Although the pandemic has prohibited a lot of events from happening over the last couple of years, Loxton hopes that will change for 2022. “We're really hoping that this year things will start getting a little bit better on the event side of things and we’re really focused on setting up some really fun events for the community and for our members,” said Loxton. There are three different types of memberships available: an individual membership for $20, a family membership for $45, or a business membership for $100. Those who are interested can sign up online at sunpeakstrails.com. Loxton said once SPRTA begins running events in the spring and summer there will also be opportunities to sign up in person. “We're really excited about this year because we will have those new trails on Morrissey that should be open by early to mid-summer,” said Loxton. “There should be lots of great stuff happening out on the trails this summer with SPRTA. We really appreciate everyone that supports us and is going to sign up as a member to help us have a big summer.”

local news

Participants at the top of Sundance. Photo provided.

3 MTN TOUR TO RAISE MONEY FOR NEW SCHOOL The TELUS Alpine Classic 3 Mtn Tour is returning this year to raise money for the Sun Peaks Education Society (SPES), to assist with the costs of building the new school and adding a gymnasium. The 3 Mtn Tour is part of the Telus Nancy Greene Alpine Classic, a race that would have celebrated its 25th anniversary this year. Due to the ongoing pandemic and lack of volunteers, this year will just feature a self-guided tour of the three mountains. Jenny Hawes, president of SPES, said over the last few years Nancy Greene Raine has been committed to raising money for the Education Society through this event. This year, in addition to some of the funds going towards operational and teacher costs, money will be set aside for the community portion of the new school they are looking to build. “Specifically, at the request of Nancy, we're really raising funds for a [community] gymnasium when that school is built,” said Hawes. “So she's working hard with [School District] 73, to really be clear on what that building will look like and what extra funds are going to be required over and above what the provincial funding will be.” Hawes said SPES is interested in all education, but their focus is the Sun Peaks 12

The event was originally set to take place at the end of January, but has been postponed until March 12 By Kayla Empey

Secondary Academy–grades 10 to 12–because it has not yet been taken over by the public education system. “Our long-term goal is to go out of business in a sense, so that the province and [School District ] 73 can take over education for all of our students here,” said Hawes. Hawes said the 3 Mtn Tour fundraising will help fill the gap in terms of what the provincial government wants to see and what the community needs for the new school. The tour was originally set to take place at the end of January, but has been postponed

until March 12. The entry fee is $100 per person or $200 per family. There will be four locations at the top of each lift where students from the Secondary Academy will be to take pictures of the participants with fun signage and mountains in the background. “It really brushes up on their interactions with their community,” said Hawes. “As well as some technical stuff with the camera work that they're doing. And they're going to upload all the photos to a website so that the teams can get access and download their team photos.” The day will also include an in-person and virtual silent auction. Hawes said they will hold a dinner in the evening, which will include the in-person portion. Aside from entry fees and the auction, sponsorships for the event also contribute to fundraising efforts. Hawes said she is grateful for the sponsors who have stepped up this year in particular. “We were really hoping to run the Alpine Classic with the race and incorporate the 3 Mtn Tour,” said Hawes. “Unfortunately, we're still in challenging times. So we do really appreciate the support in our community and the sponsorship to run an event like this.”

local news

By Louise Hudson

Photo provided.

SUN PEAKS CARGO FILLS IMPORTANT COMMUNITY ROLE DURING PANDEMIC

Who in Sun Peaks has not used Sun Peaks Cargo yet? There can’t be many people left who have not taken advantage of their multifarious services, from grocery delivery to removals to storage. Filling niches and necessities before community members even knew they needed them, Mike and Jodi Shaw’s company has become the go-to resource for residents, business owners and tourists. Of course, the pandemic has significantly impacted the Shaws. “Initially, we were like most other businesses in the resort. No guests means less freight being shipped, less product needed, less groceries delivered, so we were down considerably,” Jodi said. “We're grateful for the business relationships we had in place prior to the pandemic. Without them and local support, we wouldn't have made it through the last 20 months.” Providing free delivery services for various Sun Peaks Community Helps initiatives in the past, the Shaws also give back to the community by offering discounts to local residents and staff. Their grocery delivery service also became a valuable tool to those isolating throughout the pandemic due to illness or precautionary measures. And the pay-off for all their creativity and hard work, according to Jodi: 16

“Sun Peaks Cargo has allowed us the opportunity to live, work and play full time in the wonderful community of Sun Peaks.” Sun Peaks Cargo has developed organically since 2016 when Mike turned his technical haulage and Class 1 driving experience into an entrepreneurial enterprise. The mountain mandate: find what is missing in Sun Peaks and fill that gap. “The business was Mike's brainchild and, although very slow at the beginning, he insisted that if we kept a consistent schedule, clients would eventually see us and start using our services on a regular basis,” said Jodi. So, how to spread the word and get customers hooked on the reliable hassle-free convenience of their passion project? “Initially it was hard to convince people to use our service,” Jodi said. “Many people, including business owners, are used to doing things themselves and they didn't see the savings in using our service rather than sending their own staff to town.” Over the past few years, though, customers have been lured by the highly noticeable trailer billboard, close communication with shippers, receivers and business owners, general word of mouth, and social media. Such persistence, hard work, flexibility and resourcefulness have all paid off. Tourists who fly into Kamloops and shuttle up to the resort often need services like grocery and liquor delivery.

Even locals with their own vehicles, such as Vertical Café’s owner Rob O’Toole, have come to rely on Sun Peaks Cargo. “We use it a lot for personal things and over the few years they’ve been in business, we’ve used it for their grocery delivery service to save on trips to town,” said O’Toole. “But as a business owner, that’s probably where I’ve seen the biggest value to Sun Peaks Cargo.” When a pivotal piece of kitchen equipment failed this Christmas Eve, O’Toole turned straight to Sun Peaks Cargo to save the day—and the holidays. “Mike and Jodi are unbelievably accommodating with last minute requests,” he said. “They were in town on pick-ups, so they went to Best Buy, picked it up, and delivered it. They are the definition of going the extra mile.” It is a true family business, with the Shaw’s children Trevor and Nicole helping out when extra muscle is needed. Trevor often steps up as a delivery driver, Nicole fills in with extra household roles and vital puppy-sitting, and grandmother Vera Enshaw undertakes tasks such as emails, invoicing, cleaning and disinfecting grocery bins and bags. “And feeding us wonderful meals and homemade bread when we're home late,” added Jodi, who has channeled her legal secretarial and daycare operations background into highly efficient administration. Honing their day-to-day systems, creating a more consistent clientele and offering an ever-increasing range of services has led to year-round business, even during shoulder season. “We have such a varied list of things we haul,” said Jodi. “From frozen chicken for Mountain Man Adventures' dogs, to BBQs and smokers, or steel stringers for construction sites. Initially when cannabis was legalized, and before our local Flight Deck was operating, some of our clients from around the world were thrilled that we could deliver cannabis products for them while they were on vacation.” The biggest job they’ve undertaken involved renting a five-ton truck to relocate local residents to the Lower Mainland. And they don’t just move things, they also install appliances and assemble furniture, so no more botched Ikea projects.

The Sun Peaks Cargo trailer. Photo provided.

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arts

LOCAL HORSE RETREAT OWNER AND ARTIST DESIGN ORACLE CARDS Hillary Schneider and Zuzy Rocka’s new joint artistic endeavor shares the wisdom of horses By Kayla Empey

Schneider’s horse Ostara. Photo from Hillary Schneider on Facebook.

Whitecroft valley residents Hillary Schneider and artist Zuzy Rocka have collaborated to create a “horse medicine herd wisdom deck” of oracle cards, based on Schneider’s own herd of horses at her retreat centre Epona Rise. The deck comes with 35 cards and a detailed guide book, which provides a description of what each horse symbolizes and how to integrate their wisdom and guidance into your life. The most common way to use oracle cards is to pull a single card from the deck for inspiration or insight. “I thought it would be neat to create something that people could experience the wisdom of the horses in this way and to make it accessible,” said Schneider. “People find when I share about a horse, their message and wisdom, that it's something that they feel impacted by. So it's just another way for me to share my herd with people.” Schnedier currently owns 27 horses, all rescues that were in need of homes. The deck is based upon her current horses, as well as ones that have passed. “We lost three this year,” said Schneider. “So I think having something that is immortalizing them in some way where their wisdom can still live on is a really cool thing to do.” Once Schneider decided she wanted to create an oracle deck, she reached out to Zuzy Rocka to design the art for the cards. As an artist and photographer, Rocka has taken pictures for Schneider for a couple of years. Rocka said it helped that she has spent quite a bit of time with the horses and already knew some of their distinct personalities. “It was kind of easy to see her take on how she views their personalities, and then how I do,” said Rocka. “I was able to kind of match backgrounds to the horses to try to make the artwork for them. So it's not just a picture of them, but it actually means a little bit more.” Rocka used photos she had taken of the herd for reference and drew the cards digitally in Photoshop. She said it made more sense to do it digitally than to draw it by hand because of how many cards she was creating, and it also allowed her to add gold overlays and a textured looking background. Schneider said Rocka did a great job at capturing each horse, while also adding her own intuitive touch. “I think she really did an amazing job and put a lot of thoughtfulness and care into creating it,” said Schneider. “I think it was also important for somebody to have a connection, you know, understand kind of what I do with the horses.” Schneider owns the Epona Rise Retreat Centre in the Heffley Louis Creek valley, where people visit to tap into the energy of the horses for therapeutic benefits and self-awareness. Schneider said these interactions with the horses allows participants to understand aspects of themselves and their impact, in a way that is more difficult to achieve in a human-to-human relationship. “Also the way that I hold the experience becomes healing for the horses because I'm teaching people how to be in relationship with them that is respectful, where there's mutual choice,” said Schneider. “My horses are never put into any situation that they don't choose to be in. And so I think there's a lot of mutual benefit.” Schneider said learning how to be in a respectful relationship with a horse can also help people see how to be in a respectful relationship with themselves and nature. Her focus is often women, but Schneider said she has also recently been working with Indigenous communities for healing retreats. “I think horses read energy way better than we do,” she said. “And that's kind of aligned with the cards too. Like it means something if a certain horse comes to you, so it's like why is this horse drawn to you? And what is it about that horse and their story, or where you are in your life that this is what's resonating for you right now?” The cards can be purchased on her website at hillaryschneider.com. For local community members, Schneider said they can get in touch with her directly and pick them up from her to avoid paying for shipping from the facility where they are manufactured.

events

EVENTS JAN. 21 TO FEB. 17

Weekly Mondays Quizzy Rascal's Quiz Night at Masa's Bar + Grill Tuesdays Locals' Night at Bottoms Bar + Grill Thursdays Open Mic at Morrisey's Public House Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Free Family Activity Nights

Fun activities at the Sun Peaks Centre Great Hall from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

January Jan. 19 to 21 Air Nation Sun Peaks

By invitation only, this competition brings together the best free snowboarding athletes in North America in the Sun Peaks Terrain Park.

Jan. 31 to Feb. 3 Sun Peaks Canada Cup

This high level competition attracts some of the most talented freestyle skiers from across Canada.

February Feb. 1 ArtZone’s 60 Years at Tod Exhibition

Beginning in February and running until May, the exhibition will feature eight local artists’ work throughout the Grand Hotel & Conference Centre.

Feb. 10 to 13 Sun Peaks Timber Tour

Freestyle skiers from across B.C. will come to Sun Peaks to compete in moguls, slopestyle and big air.

arts

FROM PATROL TO PAINTING By Louise Hudson

Boddington snagged a last minute position as a SPR patroller. Photo provided.

Boddington even received local ostrich eggs as a donation to paint. Photo provided.

One of Sun Peaks Resort LLP’s (SPR) patrollers is using her spare time to upcycle old ski gear with beautiful mountainscapes. Spreading out her paints on an old sheet to protect the kitchen floor, Kate Boddington has been creating original artwork on snowboards, skis and helmets. It all started when she upgraded her own snowboard and was reluctant to discard the old one. “I wanted to find a way to keep my first one that I'd learned to ride on and had used for several years,” said Boddington. “I thought it would be fun to paint it with a mountain scene to hang above my bed as a memory.” Originally from South Africa, Boddington has been living in Sun Peaks since 2019. This winter she originally intended to work as an instructor in Verbier, Switzerland. “I had the job secured and the contract was signed to work December through April,” she said. “Following my work, the visa would allow me three months of travel, so I was planning to stay until July and potentially find a summer job to sponsor another working visa.” But an anomaly over means of payment – salary rather than hourly – stymied the visa and, subsequently, the job. “I was really disappointed,” Boddington said. “My employer and I were both expecting the visa to be a no-brainer. I’d started packing and sorting out accommodation and other things over in Switzerland. I didn’t even have a back-up plan because I thought it was just a given that I’d be spending the season in Switzerland.” Adapting quickly to her new situation, Boddington snagged a last minute position as a SPR patroller, shelving her Swiss Alps dreams until next year. Being in Sun Peaks has given her time to explore her artistic flair, using the stunning scenery she sees every day as her inspiration. “All my ideas so far are mountain-themed,” she said. “Usually I just sketch on the equipment whatever comes to mind and choose colours as I go.”

Boddington's designs. Photo provided.

Gifting two snowboards to her parents, she was gratified to see them being used as decorative wall art and also as an innovative table accent. “Their most recent use was as a raised serving platform and centrepiece on their dining room table,” said Boddington. “It was my mum's idea to put it on stilts in the centre of the table and put all the food on top for everyone to self-serve.” Running out of raw materials, Boddington posted photos of her first two snowboards in the local Facebook group, asking if anyone had old skis or snowboards to donate. “The response I got blew me away,” she said. “I had several people reach out with interest in buying my art, as well as many donations of snowboards, downhill skis, cross-country skis and even [local] ostrich eggs!” She is now accepting commissions and, as well as several pet portrait projects, has already painted a Sun Peaks themed snowboard for one lucky local. With no formal art training, she is channeling lessons learned from a “crafty mum” who always encouraged creative hobbies. So far her work is intended for decorative indoor use only but, with plans to join the ArtZone community in Sun Peaks, she intends to research a way to make her designs weatherproof. “I am hoping to still be in town for ArtZone’s next event so that I can showcase some of my work, ”Boddington added. For more information about Kate Boddington’s creations, contact her at katebod@gmail.com or join her on Instagram at: instagram.com/the_traveling_kate.

get out there

Many people may think there’s no chance of seeing bears at Sun Peaks during the winter. But there are some who don’t hibernate and actually thrive during ski season. Gathering in a circular pack, the Polar Bears typically meet on Wednesday mornings near the Sunburst chairlift. They are a vivacious group of hardy females who ski and feed together. “I think 40 to 45 was the largest group I’ve seen,” said long standing member Joan Wilson, who joined around eight years ago after hearing about the sporty troupe during chairlift chatter. The pandemic has, of course, disrupted their schedule, so while the Omicron variant is circulating they are focusing on skiing in separate bubbles. However, a typical Wednesday would see them congregating en masse at Cahilty Creek

Kitchen for a “loud and lovely” lunch, with everyone revealing the face behind the mask and comparing “helmet hair,” said Wilson. For optimum skiing, they break up into smaller packs on the slopes. Now a veteran, Wilson often volunteers to guide a group around her favourite runs in the West Bowl and Top of the World. “The ‘Mama Bear’ is an informal leader who helps with breaking the group into manageable segments by choosing a certain area or type of runs to ski,” she explained. Other Mama Bear roles include safety and keeping everyone together. Most members sport Polar Bear badges on their helmets or ski jackets, but leaders are awarded the coveted Mama Bear t-shirt.

BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTION ON THE SLOPES Community Polar and Grizzly Bear ski clubs By Louise Hudson

The Polar pack varies from week to week. “The smallest group I’ve seen was five, three or four years ago,” said Wilson. “It was one of those -25C bluebird days, so cold it hurt but wonderful conditions.” Membership includes full-time residents as well as those who live in Sun Peaks for the winter season. One of their most illustrious advocates is Nancy Greene Raine, who occasionally joins for skiing or lunch. “I skied with Nancy as our leader one day and she was all about having fun,” said Wilson. Beyond the stellar skiing, the Polar Bears are focused on friendship. “Skiing with the Polar Bears means camaraderie, finding new buddies for other activities, meeting people from

different backgrounds and countries, sharing stories about each other, improving my skiing,” said Wilson, who originally moved to Sun Peaks from Ottawa. Not to be outshone, some of the Polar Bears’ partners formed the Grizzly Bears five years ago. “Unlike the Polar Bears, we were and still are totally unorganized,” said Chris Wilson, Joan’s husband. “The original ‘core’ people were already well acquainted and would ski together on a regular basis anyway, but the group has now gotten larger and new people have joined us over time.” Usually attracting around a dozen guys, numbers occasionally swell to 20, all kept in contact via Facebook Messenger app. Whenever the group grows, ‘blue’ and ‘black’ groups of six to eight are formed. “We ski pretty much anywhere the group wants to go,” said Chris. Although there are no official ‘Papa’ Grizzlies, someone usually steps up as the ‘Alpha Bear’ to choose the runs. Mostly retired, participants' ages average around 55 to 70, all upper intermediate to advanced skiers. The optional lunch is always at Bottoms Bar & Grill. “The vibe is your typical après-ski, a few laughs about the day and sharing some beers,” said Chris. This winter the group re-started in early December with fewer numbers than usual due to the Omicron wave. Those cautiously continuing are following all health authority and resort protocols regarding COVID-19. Beyond the sport and socializing, both Polars and Grizzlies are active in volunteer work around the community. Many have volunteered in the Friday Race Series, including Joan, who has also helped with annual specialty races. “If there is a volunteer event that someone is involved with, the Grizzly Bear group is a good vehicle for them to encourage other members of the community to participate as well,” said Chris. Like the Polars, the essence of the guys’ group is friendship. “The Grizzly Bear group is just another example of the kind of social activity that the very lucky members of the Sun Peaks community can take advantage of to fully enjoy the active lifestyle we love so much,” said Chris. “I have met new people through the group and others that I might not have met otherwise. The members of the group frequently will ski together at other times, informally or pre-arranged.” For more information, please contact Peggy McKimmon at pamckimmon@gmail.com.

Left: The Grizzly Bears at their spring picnic. Photo provided. Right: A few members of the Polar Bears. Photo provided.

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From the front lines, to behind the scenes, maintenance, ops, patrol, and the park. From Alpine to Nordic, base to summit, all day and in the dark. Thank you to every member of the 2022 Sun Peaks Crew, for being who you are, and doing what you do.

SunPeaksResort.com 25

sports

NORDIC SKI CHALLENGE KICKS OFF THE SEASON The challenge runs from Jan. 3 to March 13, with a goal of skiing 2,655 kilometres per team or 830 km per individual By Kayla Empey

There are five teams and five solo participants this year. Photo from Sun Peaks Nordic on Facebook.

The Nordic Destination Ski Challenge has returned this year to get community members excited about cross country skiing by competing to ski the farthest. The challenge, run by the Sun Peaks Nordic Club, is intended to get participants to ski a certain distance over 10 weeks that would be equivalent to reaching a destination. Arlene Schieven, the club’s director-at-large, said the team destination is the American Birkebeiner Race in Wisconsin, 2,655 km from Sun Peaks.

“The teams are trying to put in as much mileage as they can to be the first one to reach that destination,” said Schieven. “It's just a nice activity to get people excited about skiing more distance.” Skiers can also sign up as individuals, with a goal of 830km to reach the Canadian Birkebeiner Race in Edmonton. Schieven said they have five teams and five solo participants so far this year. Each week, participants tally up how many kilometres they skied and send their results to the organizers. To add a bit more fun, there are also weekly challenges skiers can complete in to receive bonus kilometres. “For example, this week the weekly challenge is to ski the trail of the week,” said Schieven. “The trail of the week is the Stellar Jay Loop, which is a little bit of a more challenging loop. And then if you do that loop, you get an extra three kilometres to add on to your total.” Schieven said as the season progresses, the challenges will get more difficult and will allow for a higher number of bonus kilometres. The challenges are released one week at a time. The Nordic Destination Ski Challenge runs from Jan. 3 to March 13. The first week, the results between the first and second place teams were less than a kilometre apart, which Schieven said she thinks will push participants to ski further in the coming weeks. “Probably you'll see the mileage go up as people sort of get into the groove again and, you know, want to up their mileage once they see the other people's results,” said Schieven. Schieven said the club would love to have more participants and that the challenge is open to any members of the Nordic Club. Schieven said skiers can join late and be a bit behind, or keep it in mind for next year. “The trails are in fantastic shape, so it's a really great time to get out.”

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CHOOSE A COMMUNITY. CHOOSE REMAX ALPINE RESORT REALTY REMAX at Sun Peaks is proud to be a part of such a caring, vibrant, and close community. We've been providing families and investors with memorable and professional real estate services within Sun Peaks since 1995. Since then, we've sold over 2000 properties in the area, and are constantly striving to be bigger and better. Our history is long, our local expertise is unmatched, and we are proud of it. Locally owned and operated we aim to introduce you to the beauty of Sun Peaks as we know it. We are here to ensure every aspect of your transaction is taken care of professionally, accurately and in a timely fashion. Looking to purchase your vacation property or new permanent home? That’s what we’re here for.

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#17 VILLAGE WALK

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#4 THE PEAKS

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#1 THE CABINS

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Experience upscale living at Sun Peaks! Offering the perfect amount of separation over 3 levels, the ground floor features a welcoming spacious entry, flex room, laundry, private patio with hot tub and serene forested views. Ample storage in the garage for 4 season outdoor gear + ski/snowboard racks. The largest townhome closest to the Village, backing the Valley Trail and McGillivray Creek, this spectacular home delivers, with more than 2400 sq. ft of well planned living space. The heart of this home is the open kitchen/dining area with sunken living room, ideal for cozy evenings by the fireplace.

This appealing 3 bedroom 3 bathroom townhome is located on the 2nd fairway of the Sun Peaks golf course. This bright basement entry home has 3 levels, with an open concept main floor, spacious dining area, and living room, cozy fireplace, and heated tile floors. The property is an end unit with extra windowing and sun decks front and rear. Self contained space on lower level, with separate entrance provides flexible options for owners and guests. The garage provides secure storage for skis, boards, bikes and a variety of toys. Great access to the valley trail. Offered furnished with GST paid.

$1,049,000 Resort retreat or family home, this charming 4 bedroom cedar clad property covers all your needs. Located in a park like setting over looking the 5th Tee Box on the Sun Peaks golf course you are treated to fantastic mountain and valley views from covered decks or patio. The many upgrades include modern appliances, countertops and fixtures. The upper floor features an extra large master bedroom, with walk-in closet and large ensuite bathroom. The fully finished basement provides great separation for family members. Offered furnished with GST paid.

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#21 PEAKS WEST

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$89,500

$709,000

In search of a ski country escape? Nestled on the mountainside, this ski-in, ski-out two bedroom, two bathroom condo with private garage is designed with open concept living in mind. Desirable top floor corner location features custom shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, wide plank laminate flooring and vaulted ceiling with additional ski/bike storage. All on one level, this condo includes a dining area that is open to the kitchen and eating bar with cozy lounge and fireplace for ease of entertaining. Peaks West is located between Sun Peaks Firehall and the Burfield Chairlift.

Quarter Ownership: This third floor one bedroom condo comes fully furnished and comfortably sleeps four. Prime village location with true ski-in, ski-out access and full use of hotel amenities such as hot tubs, swimming pool, fitness center, restaurants, ski & bike valet, room service and more. This property is perfect for extended stays and includes a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops & stainless steel appliances, private in suite laundry, inviting living room with adjoining dining area, cozy fireplace and sundeck with views of the ski through village.

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Welcome to the lifestyle you always dreamed of! The Fairways neighborhood is centrally located in Sun Peaks offering convenient ski-in access that gives you the ability to actually ski right into you own back yard. This gently sloped lot backs onto forested ski terrain at the base of Mt. Morrisey and is only a short walk to the Village and all recreational activities. This mountain home offers 3 spacious bedrooms upstairs plus a 4th bedroom/games room downstairs. There is also an attractive self-contained one bedroom legal suite with separate entrance. The heart of this family home is the open eat-in kitchen and great room.

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