Sun Peaks Independent News Volume 21 Issue 4

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IN THIS ISSUE

04

SUN PEAKS RESORT ANNOUNCES NEW EXPRESS CHAIRLIFT IN WEST BOWL

The lift will open for the 2024-2025 ski season and is welcome news for skiers and riders.

SUN PEAKS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE TRANSITIONS TO NEW MANAGEMENT

09

TNRD, SUN PEAKS COUNCIL SEEK TRANSFER STATION DUMPING SOLUTIONS

The TNRD has contracted a company for a quote to fix the station’s broken security cameras, while Sun Peaks councillors are considering extending the station’s summer hours.

For comments, questions and concerns contact us at: brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

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editor@sunpeaksnews.com

213 - 1130 Sun Peaks Rd. Sun Peaks, B.C.

BRANDI SCHIER

Publisher brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

TEGWYN HUGHES

Community Editor tegwyn@sunpeaksnews.com

LOUISE HUDSON

Freelance journalist

LIZ MCDONALD

Community Journalist liz@sunpeaksnews.com

SONIA GARCÍA

Layout & Graphic Designer sonia@sunpeaksnews.com

The municipality hopes to improve health services in the community by partnering with Kamloops-based non-profit STEPS.

06

INAUGURAL SKI DOWN IN A GOWN EVENT CELEBRATES SPRING IN STYLE

Nancy Greene Raine led dozens of dressed-up women down the ski hill on March 21 in a dazzling display.

07

TNRD SURVEY FEEDBACK RESULTS OUTLINE SUN PEAKS PRIORITIES

Transfer station hours, library access and health service facility availability were among the main concerns of Sun Peaks survey-takers, despite resistance to increasing taxes for services.

08

ADAPTIVE SPORTS SUN PEAKS BIDS ITS BIGGEST CHAMPIONS GOODBYE

Neil and Veronica Connors have left big ski boots to fill in the adaptive sports community after well over a decade of service.

10

FOREIGN BUYERS BAN AMENDED AND UNDERUSED HOUSING TAX PAYMENTS DEFERRED

The federal legislation has been frustrating for the municipality, considering tourism is an important factor for the economy of Sun Peaks.

11

SUN PEAKS FREESTYLE CLUB SEES SUCCESSFUL FIRST SEASON WITH HIGH PERFORMANCE TEAM

Athletes have ‘blown away’ coaches' expectations by competing in eight different events this season, the club’s head coach told SPIN.

12 PUZZLES

13 EVENTS

14 BUSINESS LISTINGS

SUN PEAKS RESORT ANNOUNCES NEW EXPRESS CHAIRLIFT IN WEST BOWL

The lift will open for the 2024-2025 ski season and is welcome news for skiers and riders

By Liz McDonald

Powder hounds in Sun Peaks can rejoice — a new chairlift is coming to the resort in a year and a half. On April 5, Sun Peaks Resort (SPR) announced the West Bowl Express quad chairlift will be operational for the 2024-2025 season.

The lift will cost the resort an estimated $12 million to build and will be completed before the 2024-2025 ski season. Groundwork started last year, while electrical and construction are planned for this summer and the lift will be installed in 2024. The expansion will increase access to an area renowned for its views and snow quality.

SPR’s chief marketing officer Aidan Kelly says the express chairlift will open up more terrain and increase access to existing terrain in Sun Peaks. The West Bowl provides a different skiing and riding experience because of its distance from the village.

“I think the thing that we're probably most excited about is that there's a bit of a different look and feel of in the West Bowl … you really get that sense that you're out in the mountains away from it all,” Kelly said.

The area will provide easier access to bowl skiing, rolling groomers and technical terrain and is the third chairlift launched by the resort in the last six years. The Orient lift opened in 2018, and in 2020 the Crystal chairlift was replaced and aligned with Top of the World.

SPR contracted U.S.-based manufacturer Doppelmayr, which Kelly said makes most lifts in the resort, to build the West Bowl Express.

Ray Gauthier is a long-time Sun Peaks skier who lived in the village for nine years before relocating to Vernon. He’s recently purchased a home in the village. While he’s travelled North America in search of powder, Gauthier told SPIN Sun Peaks is his favourite place to ski in Canada and the expansion is welcome news to an advanced skier like him.

Historically, he and his friends would hang out in the West Bowl a few times a week, even when using a slow T-bar to access the alpine vistas, which is a testament to the enjoyable conditions. He said the express chair lift would increase ease of access.

“What they’re doing in the West Bowl — I’m going to be living in there. I love the snow … I think it’s a genius move,” Gauthier said.

SUN PEAKS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE TRANSITIONS TO NEW MANAGEMENT

The municipality hopes to improve health services in the community by partnering with Kamloops-based non-profit STEPS

By Liz McDonald

Supporting Team Excellence with Patients Society (STEPS), a regional nonprofit, officially took over Sun Peaks Community Health Centre (SPCHC) operations on April 1.

During a meeting on March 21, Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) councillors authorized Shane Bourke, SPMRM chief administrative officer (CAO), to finalize the lease agreement between the health centre and STEPS. The transition is intended to improve residents’ access to doctors and reduce the municipality’s costs and administrative responsibilities.

The terms of the agreement allow STEPS to lease the building’s medical space. Base rental costs will be waived for the next two years.

The tri-collaboration agreement was approved in the fall between STEPS, the municipality and Sun Peaks Health Association, a municipal association that fundraises for the facility and previously managed the health centre.

“My hope is that the services are improved … There are a large number of people from the Kamloops area who are registered at the Sun Peaks clinic. Hopefully, some of them will be able to [access STEPS] clinics in Kamloops, which would open up more spaces in Sun Peaks,” Mayor Al Raine said.

When asked if the transition would result in fuller services at the clinic, Raine said there’s potential to increase the facility’s hours. The health centre is only open seven days a week during the winter season and closes its doors on weekends for the rest of the year. Raine said more visitors are needed throughout the shoulder seasons and summer months to make increased clinic hours feasible.

In an email to SPIN, STEPS CEO Christine Matuschewski said the organization will send a notice to SPCHC patients in May informing them they will have access to urgent care in multiple locations. She also wrote that physicians are currently at capacity for new patients but recruitment efforts are ongoing.

Sun Peaks Health Association (SPHA) member and former SPMRM councillor Mario Pozza told SPIN the cost of running the clinic before the transition meant physicians needed to contribute a percentage of their earnings to overhead costs, including medication and bandages, as well as staffing. These costs led

to a funding crunch and concerns from SPHA about recruiting new physicians when running a deficit.

In recent years, the province has opened primary care centres and provided funding for their operations. However, Raine and Pozza told SPIN the population size on the mountain meant SPCHC couldn’t qualify, but Kamloops-based STEPS did.

“STEPS [will] take over the administration because they are getting funding … and we’re in a better situation because they have a much larger pool of doctors … in the event that we need somebody [to fill in], we might be able to get a doctor up here,” Pozza said.

Raine said grants and patient billing over the last two years ensured the health centre covered its costs without needing subsidization by the municipality.

Before partnering with STEPS, Pozza explained SPCHC applied for funding annually through the British Columbia Association of Community Health Centres to cover deficit costs.

“You didn’t know if you were going to get that money. That put us in a very tenuous position [wondering], ‘who's going to pick up the tab?’ In the past, the municipality has, but that’s not what municipal tax dollars are supposed to be going to,” Pozza told SPIN.

Moving forward, the STEPS partnership will eliminate municipal costs. SPHA will transition to focusing more on fundraising for medical equipment and an association member will sit on the STEPS board as an ex-officio.

“Hopefully [STEPS taking over] gives us more security. It gives us some [financial] assurance that we can go forward and in doing so, that may make it easier to try to recruit doctors,” Pozza said.

INAUGURAL SKI DOWN IN A GOWN EVENT CELEBRATES SPRING IN STYLE

Nancy Greene Raine led dozens of dressed-up women down the ski hill on March 21 in a dazzling display

By Louise Hudson

Sun Peaks’ terrain parks were brought to a standstill on March 21 when 40 women in frocks sped past in a skiing celebration of the first day of spring.

Decked in sequins, tulle, velvet, lace and silk, the glamorous group had rummaged through closets and secondhand shops to join the brand-new Ski Down in a Gown event.

The event, a brainchild of Vera Steinberger, exceeded its creator’s expectations.

“When can one get a group of 40 women together and get them organized so quickly to slide down a hill in such unison!” Steinberger exclaimed.

Having Nancy Greene Raine — in a pink gown and flamboyant floral bonnet — in the lead helped orchestrate an orderly descent accompanied by cheers from the chairlift.

“It was so wonderful,” Steinberger said. “[Greene Raine] has the leadership quality [and] hill knowledge that made it an organized and safe event.”

“Who wouldn’t want Nancy Greene leading your parade?”

The idea came to Steinberger after she saw social media videos of skiers in bathrobes and party dresses taking to the slopes. Starting with just a group of four friends, the growing network of participants did not take any convincing, she said.

“Once they heard about the skiing divas, the women were making plans for their outfits.”

One of the first to say yes to the dress was Councillor Julie Kimmel.

“A great group of people doing something fun — seemed like the only answer possible was ‘yeah, I’m in,’” Kimmel told SPIN.

When some participants had trouble finding a ready supply of ornate attire, Kimmel lent some of her own collection out.

“In past lives, I’ve been expected to attend glitzy and glamorous functions and have purchased gowns from bridal boutiques, dress shops, as well as second-hand stores,” she explained. “Some are too nice to let go of and most now are memories hanging in my closet.”

Kimmel said she’s 100 per cent interested in joining next year’s event.

Steinberger hopes even more people will join in the future after such a spectacular inaugural event. With word-of-mouth leading to more recruits, the enthusiasm for the spring fling was impressive.

“Never in my wildest imagination had I expected so many women participating,” Steinberger said. “I thought if there were ten of us, we would make a small splash, but 40? Clearly, we have an amazing community here in Sun Peaks.”

Led by Nancy Greene Raine, dozens of lavishly-dressed ladies ski downhill. Photo by Maria Davis.

TNRD SURVEY FEEDBACK

RESULTS OUTLINE SUN PEAKS PRIORITIES

Transfer station hours, library access and health service facility availability were among the main concerns of Sun Peaks survey-takers, despite resistance to increasing taxes for services

By Liz McDonald

Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) survey data shows respondents from Sun Peaks want to see an increase in services, with a large number of comments from survey-takers asking for an increase to hours at Sun Peaks’ transfer station.

The TNRD survey was available for a month online and through mail beginning on Feb. 1, 2023, with 132 people who identify as being residents of Sun Peaks responding and 100 respondents fully completing the survey. Since the survey was anonymous and the sample size is small, the data collection isn’t fully reliable. However, the information can be used for future planning and community consultation, according to Colton Davies, communications and marketing director for the TNRD.

Sun Peaks data, which was shared with SPIN before being published as part of the whole survey online, shows community members are actively invested in the transfer station, with all answers regarding eco stations and transfer stations showing support.

Davies said when people were asked to share their thoughts about new TNRD services or whether they’d like to see an increase in existing services, the largest number of comments related to increasing hours at the transfer station.

“It seems folks are satisfied with the transfer station itself in Sun Peaks … but the highest proportion of comments [related to] the transfer station and a request for more hours,” Davies said.

Currently, the station operates seasonally. It’s open seven days a week in winter — Sun Peaks’ busiest season — from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. In summer, the facility is open during the same hours but is closed on Tuesdays and Fridays.

People have left their garbage outside the facility when it’s closed, which attracts bears. A common complaint among residents relates to tourists who need to leave their rental units and take their garbage with them, but who often leave before the station is open and dump their garbage outside its gates.

Davies said the transfer station in Sun Peaks mirrors the hours of solid waste facilities in communities which serve larger populations within the TNRD, but agreed that the tourist and seasonal population in Sun Peaks “anecdotally would be higher than other areas, even if the population is a bit less.”

Other services respondents wanted to see increase were mixed, with some responses for services outside the TNRD’s jurisdiction, like improved road maintenance work.

“In terms of what we can control in Sun Peaks, I’d say an increase in library service would have been the second most requested item,” Davies said. Comments relating to library services asked the TNRD to increase mobile library hours or even open a physical library.

When asked which of the nine community growth indicators that the TNRD tracks were most important, 84 per cent of respondents ranked health and health facility access highest.

Davies said responses to these questions help inform the TNRD’s monitoring report for the regional growth strategy.

“The most selected item for what’s important in people’s communities [for this question] was health and health care facility access. We don’t have direct jurisdiction over [health and health care facilities] but it’s incredibly important to people, whether they live in Sun Peaks or any TNRD community,” Davies said.

When asked if they were satisfied with services provided by TNRD, 48 per cent of respondents said yes, 28 per cent said no and 24 per cent weren’t sure.

Notably, 57 per cent of people who took the survey said taxes are high compared to the services they receive, while 58 per cent said they would like to see services increased or improved.

“It’s kind of uncanny how some of the responses said, ‘Yes, we’d like to see more services, but we feel we’re already paying too many taxes for the services we receive,’” Davies told SPIN. He highlighted that despite this contradiction, it’s still possible to increase some services through grant funding.

Feedback for the TNRD can be submitted online at any time, and Davies thanked everyone for completing the survey.

A full breakdown of the survey data, including responses across the TNRD, is available online.

TNRD Survey Results. Chart by Liz McDonald

ADAPTIVE SPORTS SUN PEAKS BIDS ITS BIGGEST CHAMPIONS GOODBYE

Neil and Veronica Connors, ski training directors for Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks (ASSP), have devoted countless hours to the adaptive snow sports program, but their time on the mountain is coming to a close.

On Sunday, April 2, the community bid them farewell during an annual ASSP event at the Annex as the couple prepared for a cross-continental move.

The couple worked with ASSP for well over a decade.

Veronica began her journey with ASSP in 2008 while working part time with Sun Peaks Sports School.

“We saw an article in SPIN asking for potential instructors to do the [Canadian Adaptive Snowsports] course … As a registered nurse, both Neil and I thought that it would be something of interest to me to work with people living with disabilities … Everyone needs a purpose and that was going to be my purpose.”

Neil was involved in the sports school as well and joined ASSP in 2013.

Both say a highlight of their time with ASSP included maintaining national excellence standards of training and having the highest quality safety for students — from training instructors to maintaining equipment.

“We have to remember that we're working with lots of vulnerable people who have special needs. We have to ensure extra safety measures are taken with them,” Veronica said.

By Liz McDonald

The April 2 ASSP event included tributes to the Connors from Dick Taylor, the founder of ASSP and Nan Stevens, ASSP vice president. Mayor Al Raine and Coun. Julie Kimmel also gave a community service award to the Connors.

Veronica was especially touched by a video compilation from the evening to “So Long, Farewell” from The Sound of Music, one of Veronica’s favourite musicals.

“What really touched me in particular was the video compilation of all the photos of Neil and I throughout the last 15 years — photos that we've long forgotten,” she told SPIN.

“For me, it was certainly [a great moment] having our kids involved over Zoom, because we were not aware they were there during the whole ceremony,” Neil said.

The couple knows ASSP is left in wonderful hands with a solid board of directors. They said they’ve formed deep relationships with ASSP members over the years.

“We've spent the last 10 and 15 years building a great platform and now it’s up to the new generation to grow that,” Neil said.

The Connors extended their gratitude to Sun Peaks Resort LLP for its integral support of ASSP’s operations, as well as SPR sports director Ian Logan, all of the ASSP instructors and students and their families.

Neil and Veronica Connors have left big ski boots to fill in the adaptive sports community after well over a decade of service

Veronica and Neil Connors have helped Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks for over a decade. Photo by Liz McDonald.

Last season, the two were awarded administrators of the year by CADS during the organization’s national festival and Neil won instructor of the year.

TNRD, SUN PEAKS COUNCIL SEEK TRANSFER STATION DUMPING SOLUTIONS

TNRD after receiving the letter. Bourke’s report from engagement with the TNRD was presented to council later on April 4. At that meeting, councillors debated how the municipality could help reduce dumping at the station.

Changing hours to have the station open earlier, increasing service during the summer months, running an educational campaign about the station's location and building a waste disposal fee into rental accommodation agreements were among the solutions councillors discussed.

The latter idea could reduce the number of vacationers dumping garbage outside the station’s gates when leaving. Rental accommodations require guests to check out with their waste in tow before the station is open.

hours

By Liz McDonald

Sun Peaks transfer station security cameras will soon be operational again.

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) received a letter from Sun Peaks Bear Aware (SPBA) and transfer station employee Brian Beck on March 21, raising concerns about dumping issues. The Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) has hired a contractor to repair the transfer station’s security cameras.

SPMRM council directed Shane Bourke, chief administration officer (CAO), to engage with the

The station operates on seasonal hours and is open seven days a week in winter between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. It is now on summer hours, with disposal services available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except Tuesday and Friday each week.

Expanding the station's hours is possible, but the municipality would have to pay for extra days of service. The municipality currently pays for two additional days of service during the winter and for service on statutory holidays.

Expanding the station's hours is up for discussion in this year's budget, and Sun Peaks Bear Aware suggested increasing summer hours in its letter to council.

SPBA secretary Karen Lara told SPIN the non-profit started advocating for solutions to dumping outside the transfer station after seeing posts on social media. As a result, members of SPBA visited the station to learn more.

“One [issue] was people leaving garbage outside the gate during closed hours. And then the other

[problem] that Brian [Beck] identified was that there are security cameras within the compound, but they weren't functioning,” Lara said.

A recent survey from the TNRD regarding services in the region noted that people want increased hours at the station.

Another survey specific to transfer stations in the TNRD from 2022 showed 85 per cent of respondents think the current hours at the transfer station do not meet their needs.

Just over 30 per cent of respondents said they prefer to visit the transfer station between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., while 28 per cent said they’d like to go from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. when the transfer station is currently closed.

Lara noted she appreciates how the municipality effectively engaged with the TNRD.

“It’s incredibly satisfying to see how much time council spent [discussing the issue].”

Lara said SPBA’s goal is to encourage communication in Sun Peaks on how to live in

The TNRD has contracted a company for a quote to fix the station’s broken security cameras, while Sun Peaks councillors are considering extending the station’s summer

By Liz McDonald

FOREIGN BUYERS BAN AMENDED AND UNDERUSED HOUSING TAX PAYMENTS DEFERRED

After announcing new legislation that would affect property owners in Sun Peaks, the Canadian federal government is making changes.

The federal government has amended legislation barring non-Canadians from purchasing residential property and is deferring tax payments and interest for the Underused Housing Tax (UHT) until Oct. 31, 2023.

The Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act began on Jan. 1, 2023 and was amended on March 27, 2023. The original legislation prevented non-Canadians from purchasing property in Canada for two years.

As of March 27, amendments to the legislation have repealed prohibitions against non-Canadians purchasing land zoned for residential and mixed use.

The update also provides an exception for non-Canadians purchasing property for housing development, increases the foreign corporate ownership threshold and supports those with work permits who want to purchase a home.

The amendments will allow the federal government to “provide greater flexibility to newcomers and businesses seeking to contribute to Canada,” Ahmed Hussen, minister of housing and diversity and inclusion said in a media release.

The changes means businesses abroad and nonCanadians can buy property to develop and can buy vacant land zoned for residential and mixed use.

Non-Canadians with a work permit or people authorized to work in the country can buy property if they don't already own a property in Canada. They are required to have at least 183 days left on their work permit in order to buy property.

A press release from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) explained the federal government made the changes to ensure newcomers are able to purchase homes and businesses can build homes to increase Canada’s housing supply.

The CMHC release added the legislation will hopefully still reduce “speculative investment by foreign investors.” The bill was initially brought into law to reduce foreign speculation in the Canadian housing market.

Underused Housing Tax payments deferred

The UHT went into effect last year and requires non-resident homeowners to pay a tax of one per cent assessed property value unless they meet certain exemptions.

Properties in Sun Peaks are exempt from the one per cent tax according to the federal government’s designation tool. Canadian citizens and permanent residents do not have to file while non-Canadians are required to file the form.

A property owner affected by the Underused Housing Tax Act now has until Oct. 31 to pay the tax with waived interest. While the deadline to file the tax form is still April 30, the CRA’s website says having extra time to pay this tax will help ensure people comply.

In an email to SPIN, the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) highlighted it is up to individuals to confirm whether their property is exempt or affected. A representative directed individuals or corporations to contact the CRA if they require further assistance.

Local Impact

The changes to non-Canadians’ rights to purchase a home in Canada may be good news for nonCanadians interested in Sun Peaks.

There are individual lots on Mountain View Drive and Lookout Ridge that are vacant and zoned for general residential properties, according to Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) chief administrative officer Shane Bourke.

Land development is governed by Sun Peaks Resort (SPR) LLP’s Master Development Agreement with the province, and applications to develop vacant land can only be completed by SPR through the existing agreement.

Bourke is unsure if the change means nonCanadians will be able to purchase these homes.

SPIN has reached out to Frank Caputo, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo for comment. In an email, a member of Caputo’s staff noted the MP is aware of the housing tax and purchase ban but did not provide further comment.

According to data from Statistics Canada, 16.5 per cent of of residential properties in Sun Peaks were owned by non-residents in 2017.

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality Mayor Al Raine says the deferral of tax payments for the UHT doesn’t address local issues.

Raine added the UHT does not account for properties used for short-term rentals. Instead, a property must be occupied by the owner, their primary family or a tenant for more than 28 days in a year to be exempt from the tax.

“I think the reason why they don't want to recognize short term rentals is this battle they're having in cities with short term rentals taking away from the housing supply … [but] the sole tourism premise of Sun Peaks is based on having a large supply of short term rental properties for tourists. None of that is recognized.”

Kit Kuhn is a member of the non-resident advisory committee and has owned property in Sun Peaks for 17 years. He found out about the UHT through the committee and wants to see better consultation with municipalities when changes like the UHT are implemented.

“[The federal government] should also be saying, ‘okay, how are we going to get the word out before we pass this,’” Kuhn said.

He added having a structured communication plan with municipalities ahead of implementation would help the government avoid scrambling to inform those impacted by this legislation.

“They've already extended the time because, obviously, they figured out that people don't know about it.”

The federal legislation has been frustrating for the municipality, considering tourism is an important factor for the economy of Sun Peaks

SUN PEAKS FREESTYLE CLUB SEES SUCCESSFUL FIRST SEASON WITH HIGH PERFORMANCE TEAM

Separate Super Youth events over the same period as the Timber Tour in Fernie saw plenty of success, too. Quinn Basko placed first in U12 slopestyle, Alexandra Thompson won silver in U14 slopestyle, Patrick Burns won gold in Moguls for U14, Zac Bown placed second for U8 moguls and Logan Bown won gold for U12 moguls.

January saw members compete at the Canada Cup series event at Horseshoe Resort in Barrie, Ont. The event saw Cooper Basko qualify for finals and place 12th. Dinn won gold for slopestyle and big air and also won the best overall results for the Canada Cup series as a whole. Dinn also won gold at the Sun Peaks Canada Cup competition in early January.

By Liz McDonald

The Sun Peaks Freestyle Club’s first year with a high performance ski team has been a significant success for the athletes involved, according to the club’s management.

The team had eight competitions this season. High performance director and head coach Chris Mavin said results were impressive, considering the high performance freestyle ski team has only been together for one season.

“We had no expectations going into this year because it was the rookie year for a lot of these [members] competing at the next level. They’ve blown us away,” Mavin told SPIN.

Mavin explained that last season he and the board of directors identified a need for a high performance team with several athletes capable of competing at the national level.

The team’s last competition for the season took place in Silver Star Mountain Resort for BC Championships from April 6 to 9. After, members took a two-week break before heading to Whistler for spring training.

“It’s been a very intense season — one of the most competitiondense seasons I’ve known,” Mavin said. “All of our big competitions were split between December and January, then BC Winter Games, Junior Nationals and BC Championships were all packed into three weeks in March and April. We’ve been on the road a lot.”

From March 30 to April 2, team members competed at the Canadian Junior Nationals in Calgary at WinSport. Jackson Atkinson, Cooper Basko, Ryder McKenzie-White, Kristian Stoll and Gabi Dinn qualified to represent B.C. during the competition. Cooper won U14 slopestyle and Stoll came second in U14 slopestyle.

Earlier season results

Results from the BC Winter Games at Silver Star Resort saw Atkinson come third in U14 slopestyle and second in U14 big air while McKenzie-White came third in U16 slopestyle. Dinn placed second in U16 big air.

In late February, the Timber Tour freestyle competition in Fernie saw athletes on the team competing at the provincial level, with multiple competitors making the podium.

In slopestyle competitions for U14 results, Cooper Basko landed in first place, Atkinson came second and Stoll was fourth. U16 results saw McKenzie-White come second. McKenzie-White also placed third for big air U16.

Mavin thanked all the athletes for their hard work, as well as Sun Peaks Resort and the community for ensuring the team’s success.

“The facilities [at Sun Peaks Resort] are fantastic. It gives them the ability to continually train and work on making small things better, which then leads to much bigger and better performance[s] overall.”

Athletes have ‘blown away’ coaches' expectations by competing in eight different events this season, the club’s head coach told SPIN

THE BRIGHT STUFF

by Barbara Olson © ClassiCanadian

Crosswords

DOWN

overseer

31 Annual Canadian curling championship

32 Decked out spookily, in a way

36 It's flag is nicknamed "Old Glory"

37 Official lang. of Singapore

49 Share one's views

50 Woods use in shipbuilding

54 End of the observation

57 Hasbro's "game of unspeakable fun"

59 Business identifier

60 No-___ (gnat)

61 King's "The Dead ___"

62 9-1-1 call, e.g.: Abbr.

63 Command from le général

64 W.W.I Belgian battle site

65 "Drat!", in the sticks

38 Prickly plant

40 Unlikely to leave a big tip, say

41 Hockey Hall-of-Famer Eric

47 Having no centre line, as a road

45 Still ahead

46 Bal. sheet whiz

47 Streaked, as blue cheese

51 "Anyone up for ___ of cards?"

52 ___ Rouge, Cambodian guerrilla

53 Rear admiral's rear

55 Part of BYOB

56 River of Germany

57 Classical grp. at Roy Thomson Hall

58 Prefix meaning "atmosphere"

EVENTS

APRIL 21 - MAY 19

WEEKLY

Cleavage Axe Co. is open through shoulder season from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and closed on Mondays and Thursdays.

Daily

ArtZone exhibits are a perfect way to experience local creators’ work while exploring the village. Mei Lin Cheung, a digital illustrator, has work on display daily at Vertical Cafe, located in Sundance Lodge.

Textile artist Janet Scruggs has showings each day at Sotheby’s International Realty, found in the Residences at Sun Peaks Grand

Fridays

AA meetings at Sun Peaks Secondary Academy at 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays

Kamloops Farmers Market, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

APRIL

April 22

Heffley Creek Hall has a Coffeehouse Open Mic for youth and adults. Doors open at 4 p.m., youth event starts at 5 p.m. Dinner for the evening starts between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. and costs $12. Adult open mic starts at 7 p.m. Entertainers and kids can attend for free. Audience members pay $5. There will be a 50/50 draw at 8:30 p.m.

April 23

Boogie the Bridge in Kamloops celebrates movement and community. Distances include 1K, 5K, 10K or 21.5 half marathon lengths.

April 25

North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Ambassador program is holding an information session for youth in grades 9 to 11. Head to the Fall Fair Hall at 6:30 p.m. to learn more.

April 27, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Secwepemc Child & Family Services has a men’s group session in Kamloops called S.A.G.E., Something All Guys Experience. Child minding is offered, but you must register. They ask you to bring an appetite and thoughts. Email Gord Cuthbert to register at gord.cuthbert@secwepemcfamilies.org

April 29, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Heffley Creek Hall holds a de-stash event. Gather your friends and the material you’d like to let go. You can buy new stuff as well!

MAY

May 6 to 7

Bloom Alpine Wellness Festival expands Sun Peaks with workshops, yoga, sound therapy, a market and more.

May 6

Kamloops Heritage Railway Park holds its grand opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendance is by donation.

May 12 to 13

Kamloops Symphony holds its final concert of the season, Ode to Joy.

May 14 at 7 p.m.

McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre has a roller disco. Event costs $17.31.

May 27

JuggerBean Tattoo Parlour is holding planter paint night from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Register at juggerbeantattoo.com/events

ALPINE RESORT REALTY

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

LOCATED AT SUN PEAKS SINCE 1995

OPEN DAILY AT THE KOOKABURRA LODGE

T: 250 578 8222

TF: 1 800 663 2838

E: info@sunpeaksrealty.com

$1,279,000

$1,299,000

This landscaped slope side mountain home offers the ultimate ski-in, ski-out convenience as one of the best locations on the mountain, Sundance Estates. Superior design and finishing with quality construction, with extensive use of stone, granite, hardwood and tile. This spectacular home radiates warmth and intimacy with the most incredible setting in Sun Peaks and presents and exceptional opportunity to own one of the very best in resort living. Some of the features include soaring windows, radiant in floor heat, HRV, games room, inviting hot tub, oversized double car garage. GST n/a.

This is a welcoming 3 bedroom ski-in chalet with separate self-contained 2 bedroom legal suite on a large lot backing onto forested ski terrain. With an abundance of sunshine and mountain views, this 5 bedroom home plus loft presents solid revenue options and space for your family and friends to relax and enjoy the resort lifestyle. The main floor is an inviting open living space that features a cozy gas fireplace, vaulted ceiling, soaring windows and direct access to a spacious sunny deck where you can enjoy views to Mt Morrisey ski runs and the golf course.

This extremely desirable ski-in, ski-out townhome boasts 3 bedrooms plus large ski room and 3.5 baths in a relaxed mountain neighborhood. Nestled in the ‘McGillivray Creek’ complex adjacent to both the Morrisey and Orient Ridge chairlifts as well as the Nordic trailhead. This bright end unit is warm and inviting with soaring windows and vaulted ceiling featuring rich wood cabinetry and finishing throughout, updated gas fireplace, large sundeck for entertaining and heated tile floors in the kitchen, entry and 3 baths. Furnished; GST n/a.

NEW LISTING

Situated in the very heart of four season Sun Peaks Resort, this cozy top fl oor deluxe studio loft has it all! Featuring large windows to take in the sunny East facing view, plus a full kitchen, which accommodates nicely for extended stays - year round. Entirely renovated with new countertops, sinks and faucets in kitchen & bathroom, new appliances, mattresses, attractive furnishings, beautiful laminate fl ooring, paint, lighting, artwork, décor items and curtains. Spacious airy loft with bonus seating area provides the perfect amount of separation Appreciate the easy access out your front door to all four season activities!

$2,890,000

This true ski-in, ski-out 6 bedroom Alpine Chalet is located in the relaxed mountain neighborhood of Lookout Ridge. Rare RS-1A zoning for short term rentals makes this a desirable revenue producing property and also features a self-contained 2 bedroom legal suite with separate entrance & laundry, plus media/fitness room. The heart of the home is its open living area with towering fireplace which is flooded with great light passing through the massive windows that brings the great outdoors inside. A home designed to be cozy while still accommodating a houseful of guests. Fully furnished; GST appl.

THE RESIDENCES AT SUN PEAKS GRAND #1210A - $95,000 · #1313B - $164,900 #1305C - $159,500 · #1305B - $159,500

This quarter ownership offering at Sun Peaks offers affordable accommodation and potential rental returns when you are not using with only a fraction of the cost associated with ownership. The monthly condo fee includes everything...even the annual property taxes and resort association fee. 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. GST applies.

Welcome to Trapper’s Landing! This desirable 2 bedroom plus family room, 3.5 bath townhouse is located close to the Orient Ridge and Mt. Morrisey lift base stations and is only a short walk to the main village and all resort amenities. Simply ski-in, or ski-out your door or quickly access the expansive cross-country trail network close by. This mountain retreat is in excellent condition and offers the perfect amount of separation over three levels with private garage and extra storage space. Offered furnished, GST applies.

#42 WOODHAVEN $1,029,900

Welcome to Woodhaven! This desirable must see 2 bed/3.5 bath mountain home is located within a close proximity to the East Village Ski Way, to enjoy skiing in & out to Morrisey, or quick access to the expansive cross-country trail network directly across the street. This retreat offers a sunny southern exposure, a deluxe kitchen with new s/s appliances (under warranty), open concept with vaulted ceilings, cozy gas fireplace, bright and sunny windowing throughout allowing expansive views. Upstairs boasts two spacious bedrooms, 2 baths plus a private sundeck off the primary bedroom.

This well-appointed 2 bedroom, one bathroom mountain retreat is ready to occupy, with no rental bookings to honor! This corner apartment features a cozy gas fireplace, private covered deck, open floor plan, in suite laundry, abundant owner storage in the adjacent ski locker plus additional storage locker in the secure heated underground parking. Settler's Crossing offers excellent ski-in & out accessibility, and is located adjacent to the fifteenth and sixteenth hole of BC's highest elevation golf course and the Orient chairlift, just a short walk to the expansive Nordic network and cross-country bike trails.

#24 SETTLER’S CROSSING $659,000

#7 TRAPPERS LANDING $989,000

4119 SUNDANCE DRIVE $3,399,000

#453 CAHILTY HOTEL & SUITES $294,900

5425 LOOKOUT RIDGE DRIVE

2203 SUNBURST DRIVE

#29 MCGILLIVRAY CREEK