CRACKDOWN LOOMS FOR ILLEGAL NIGHTLY RENTALS PAGE 4
SUN PEAKS ART ZONE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS PAGE 10
OCTOBER 30—31
Showers, mild
NOVEMBER 1—6
Rainy periods, mild
NOVEMBER 7—8
Sunny, mild
NOVEMBER 9—13
Snow showers
NOVEMBER 14—23
Snow, heavy at times
NOVEMBER 23—27 Snow, cold
For more specific and up-to-the-minute weather, visit:
sunpeaksnews.com/weather
VOLUME 13 ISSUE 11
@sunpeaksnews
OCTOBER 30—NOVEMBER 27
/sunpeaksnews
FREE
FOCUSING ON THE unseen
SUN PEAKS & KAMLOOPS REGION FEATURE IN NEW SKI FILM “THERE’S A QUARRY THAT’S RIGHT BELOW WHITECROFT AND WE HIT A REALLY COOL SPOT....”
by SUN PEAKS NEWS
W
atching The Unseen should be a treat for anyone who’s into freestyle skiing, but the film’s local flavour will almost certainly make it a hit in the Sun Peaks community. Co-directors Kaleb Weston and Sam (Zam) Matchett spent about 35 days last winter filming at locations across Kamloops, Sun Peaks and Revelstoke. “The film is mainly based around one of our riders, Zam, whose skiing in general is super different and unique,” said Weston, a Revelstoke product. “It’s just the style that he puts into his skiing that really stands out. He likes getting really low on his skis and riding their tails. “Lots of the things that he hits aren’t things anybody would look at and really want to jump.”
The Unseen, which will be released online in mid-November and streamed for free on Weston’s website, inflik.ca, is named after hip-hop artist Lord Quas’s debut album and features Sun Peaks skiers Kieran Nikula and Jarred Martin. “I moved to Kamloops about four years ago and I made good friends with Kieran and Jarred, and have been around the Sun Peaks area for a while,” Weston said. “...Kieran lives in Whitecroft, so we stayed with him for a couple weeks to film.” Lord Quas’s music provides much of the sound track for the movie, which boasts freestyle skiing scenes in a plethora of unusual settings. “There’s a quarry that’s right below Whitecroft and we hit a really cool spot, where there are
these two huge tanks side by side, about 25 feet long by 10 feet high,” Weston said. “We spent like three days down there building. It was really cool to get creative. We had a bunch of friends there. Those are always the best times filming, when you’re just hanging out with your friends.” Much of the editing was done in the basement of an old farm house in Revelstoke, where Weston and Matchett collaborated in a makeshift studio, working toward the final cut. “At the end of the year, it was just me and him,” Weston said. “He had saved up all summer to come up from Montana. “It was a lot of brainstorming that went into making the whole film come together in this creepy basement.” What also ties the twosome’s offering together is Matchett’s
artistic ability. “Zam draws and does stop-motion video,” Weston said. “He drew about 5,000 frames for the movie. There are three 25- to 30-second animations that bring the film together. He drew all of them. It took him all summer to do it.” Search Zamimated on Vimeo to see more of Matchett’s work and go online to inflik.ca to watch a trailer for The Unseen. The film has only been viewed in its entirety by a handful of friends and fans, some of whom attended a screening earlier this month at Longhorn Saloon and Grill in Whistler. In a unique twist, Matchett and Weston plan to make about 10 VHS copies they will give away through a to-be-determined social media contest “I always wanted to release a hard copy,” Weston said. “We’re
“IT WAS REALLY COOL TO GET CREATIVE. WE HAD A BUNCH OF FRIENDS THERE. THOSE ARE ALWAYS THE BEST TIMES FILMING, WHEN YOU’RE JUST HANGING OUT WITH YOUR FRIENDS.” not making any money off of this. It’s all for fun.” There are already plans to make a multi-episode web series that will be released sporadically beginning next fall, with Sun Peaks again expected to provide a backdrop for some the skiing action. For now, Weston is working in Saskatoon as a mining technician, saving up for a motorhome and another winter of filming and riding across B.C. “I’m just stoked to release it now,” Weston said. “It’s been a long time coming.
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
1
CAUSE OF BELLA VISTA BLAZE INITIALLY UNDETERMINED PHOTO: STEVE BERNDSEN
SPECTACULAR FLAMES: The impressive fire was quickly extinguished by Sun Peaks’ fire crew.
Sun Peaks Resort wins provincial employment award
HIGH SEASONAL STAFF RETENTION RATE RECOGNIZED
PHOTO: CONNIE WILLIAMSON
On the evening of Friday, October 23 at approximately 7:30 p.m., Sun Peaks Fire and Rescue (SPFR) responded to reports of a fire in a residential structure currently under construction at the corner of Bella Vista Drive and Sun Peaks Road. The building was vacant at the time of the fire. Chief Colin Cannon said the cause of the fire was undetermined and it would be up to the involved insurance company to decide if a full investigation was needed. “There’s not a lot left,” he said. Nineteen members of SPRF
responded to the call, including sixteen volunteer members. Every vehicle owned by Sun Peaks’ Fire Hall was used, including two engines. The chief praised his team for an extremely quick and efficient response which prevented the fire from spreading to nearby homes. Wind was a factor in fighting the fire. “Because of the stage of construction the building was in, it went up extremely quickly. The wood stick frame was completely engulfed,” he said. The crew attacked the blaze with water from both the lower side and the upper side.
SUN PEAKS STUDENTS GET SAFETY FOCUSED HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT PHOTO: SPFR
PRACTISING THEIR MOVES: Fire Prevention Officer Dean Schiavon shows Sun Peaks students how to stop, drop and roll.
Glenda Johnson, Jennifer Dekkers and Aidan Kelly of SPR pose with Go2HR after the awards gala.
Destination BC and the Tourism Industry Association of BC announced the winners of the 2015 BC Tourism Industry Awards at a gala event on October 21, including Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) as the winner of the 2015 Employees First Award. Presented by go2HR, the province’s tourism industry human resources association, the award was received by Jennifer Dekkers, SPR and the Sun Peaks Grand’s recruiting 2
sunpeaksnews.com
and training co-odinator and Glenda Johnson, SPR’s accounting manager. The award recognizes an employer who has upheld high standards of excellence in human resources and people management practices. Sun Peaks was praised for achieving a 50 per cent retention rate for seasonal employees in the 2014-15 winter season and for creating a strong community and organizational culture through different HR initiatives.
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
Sun Peaks’ Fire Prevention Officer, Dean Schiavon, was out in the community teaching the importance of fire prevention and preparedness. During Fire Prevention Week he visited Sun Peaks Elementary to educate kids on this year’s theme, “Hear it beep when you sleep”. They practised stop, drop and roll, learned about the importance of working smoke detectors that can be heard from their bedroom and having two ways to exit in case of a fire. “They were also given a homework assignment to draw up a home safety plan with an outdoor meeting place,” he said.
PHOTO: HEFFLEY CREEK STORE
Owners Vivian and Gerry Simson of Kamloops would like to offer sincere thanks to Sun Peaks Fire and Rescue and their Old Toddie friends who reached out with information and support.
Fire Prevention week wraps up
PHOTO SUBMITTED
CRIME
Schiavon and his team also conducted smoke alarm testing in Whitecroft and he has plans to continue testing throughout Sun Peaks this fall. Residents are encouraged to contact the Fire Hall if they would like their home to be included. The Sun Peaks Fire Hall is also participating in Power Hour, a national initiative which invites all Canadians to participate in a simultaneous smoke alarm test. It takes place on to coincide with the time change on Nov. 1. Instructions to take part can be found on both the Sun Peaks municipality website and Sun Peaks Fire and Rescue’s website.
Photo taken from store’s surveillance video.
BRAZEN THEFT AT HEFFLEY CREEK STORE On the afternoon of Sunday, October 18, a man entered Heffley Creek Store and made off with two cartons of cigarettes. After requesting to purchase them, he waited for the attendant to place the cartons on the counter, then snatched up the unpaid goods and ran into a waiting truck. The theft was caught on the store’s video surveillance system. The store’s assistant manager described the man as about 6’2″ with a heavier build, in his late 20s to early 30s with a mustache and some facial hair. A GMC-like truck was also involved, described as a newer model and tan or beige in colour. Anyone with information is asked to call the Kamloops RCMP at (250) 828-3000. Should they wish to remain anonymous Crimestoppers are available to gather any information at 1-800222-8477(TIPS).
We’re looking for bright, outdoor-loving people to fill the following positions:
HOT TUB WATER TECHNICIANS Full & Part Time We will train and hire based on attitude!
SNOW REMOVAL PERSONNEL
Part Time This is a great position to compliment another full or part time job! Apply by email to: Bobbe Lyall info@innspireservices.com
4103 Sundance Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
t 250.578.7773
tf 1.877.578.5774
OPEN DAILY 9 TO 5 IN THE VILLAGE STROLL AT SUN PEAKS
$1,188,000
$1,090,000
$880,000
4103 Sundance Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
5425 Lookout Ridge Place, Sun Peaks, BC
2439 Fairways Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
Ski-in/out, 6 bedroom, 6.5 bathroom, level entry home with vaulted ceilings, sunny deck & expansive mountain views. Revenue suite plus in-law suites, spacious double garage. Furnished.
Ski-in/out, 5 bedroom contemporary chalet with a bright & airy living area, attractive chef’s kitchen & towering windows with views. Two car garage, daylight basement, revenue suite. Radiant heat.
Custom built log home with quality craftsmanship & creative design. Open living area, artist carved features, gourmet kitchen, 4 bedrooms with ensuite baths & deluxe one bedroom suite. Three bay garage.
$519,000
$439,000
$759,000
gst applicable
2308 Sunburst Place, Sun Peaks, BC True ski-in/out, 6 bedroom chalet provides prime access to main chairlifts. Open living area, log accents & 270 degree views, abundant sunshine, garage, revenue suite, fully furnished & hot tub.
14 Fairways Cottages, Sun Peaks, BC
31 Woodhaven, Sun Peaks, BC
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, cedar cottage nestled between McGillivray Creek & golf course. Granite countertops, double garage, covered veranda, furnished, hot tub. Inviting family room on ground floor.
Ski-in/out, fully furnished, level entry home with exceptional views and sense of privacy. 2 bedrooms on second floor, lower level walk out basement with large family room and garage.
$389,000
$379,000
$365,000
5 Forest Trails, Sun Peaks, BC
39 Snow Creek Village, Sun Peaks, BC
1386 Burfield Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
Ski-in/out, centrally located 3 bedroom townhouse featuring an open living area & inviting deck overlooking trees with views to Mt Morrisey. Tandem garage, backyard patio, fully furnished.
Ski-in/out, 3 level townhome. Open living area, gas fireplace & sun deck with hot tub. 2 bedrooms on top floor feature spacious walkin closet plus legal self-contained studio suite. Furnished, garage.
Bright & spacious, 3 bedroom half duplex with in-law suite. Open living area, views to Mt. Tod, cozy gas fireplace & large sun deck. Ample storage space, garage & level parking.
NEW LISTING
$82,000
From $48,000
34 Settler’s Crossing, Sun Peaks, BC
The Burger Joint, 114 – 3170 Creekside Way, Sun Peaks, BC
The Residences at Sun Peaks Grand
Ski-in/out, ground floor, 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo upgraded with quality granite counters & heated tile flooring. Furnishings, 6 appliances, hot tub, ski locker, 2 parking spaces & storage unit.
Business Only: ‘The Burger Joint’ is a fully operating turnkey opportunity in Sun Peaks. Prime location, high visibility with ski/walk-by traffic. 16 indoor seats, outdoor eating bar. Vendor financing available.
1 & 2 Bedroom Units • ¼ or Whole Ownership • Professional Management • Gourmet Kitchens • Heated Parking • Pools, Hot Tubs, Gym • Ski & Bike Storage • Fully Furnished
$289,900
gst applicable
SHOWCASE YOUR PROPERTY TO THE WORLD Our agents offer exemplary service and marketing for homes in every neighbourhood at:
sothebysrealty.com sothebysrealty.ca wallstreetjournal.com newyorktimes.com hongkongtatler.com ft.com jamesedition.com mansionglobal.com dwell.com
+
dozens of exclusive websites and publications. Request a complimentary marketing consultation for your home at sunpeaks@sothebysrealty.ca
RECENTLY SOLD 4237 Bella Vista Drive ..........................................List: $999,000 4132 Sundance Drive ............................................List: $899,000 39 Woodhaven ........................................................List: $409,000 59 Stone’s Throw ....................................................List: $379,000 4205 Bella Vista Drive ..........................................List: $150,000
sunpeakscollection.com Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal.
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
3
Crackdown looms for illegal nightly rentals APPLICATION FEE NOW $1,500 PHOTO: SUNPEAKSMUNICIPALITY.CA
DEADLINE PASSED: Application forms are available on Sun Peaks Municipality’s website.
by TRACY GILCHRIST
P
roperty owners offering short-term rentals without the proper approvals will face hefty fines from the municipality in the new year. “We’ve tried to give out as many warnings as we can and come January, we will start to enforce this,” said Rob Bremner, chief administrative officer of Sun Peaks
Mountain Resort Municipality. Those operating without proper rezoning will face a fine of $500 a day, as well as another daily $500 hit for operating without a business licence. Owners of around 40 properties have applied to the municipality for the rezoning that will let them rent out their homes nightly. Council is attempting to process four applications at each
of its public meetings, which provides staff time to complete inspections and give each application the attention it deserves, according to Brenmer. So far, seven properties have passed inspection, received three readings at council and been forwarded to the province for approval, and another three had a third reading at the Oct. 19 municipal council meeting. Applicants must provide information about how many rooms will be rented, available parking, who handles snow removal and who provides on-mountain property management. Up until the end of July, the municipality offered a reduced rezoning fee of $500 versus the regular $1,500. Applicants also must pay $15 for a title search and $40 building information request, and once rezoning is in place, seek a $95 business licence. There’s been good uptake, Bremner suggested, with only one application denied. During an inspection spurred by a complaint earlier this year about a property on Sunburst
Drive, the building inspector found an illegal suite in the basement, with neighbours citing excessive occupancy, number of vehicles, noise and snow removal issues. The owners of the property appeared at council on Oct. 19 to “explain what they’ve done to amend the situation,” said Bremner. Council told the homeowners they could apply for a temporary use application, which gives them 18 months “to prove themselves,” he said. “This was never done with the idea that, ‘We want to shut you guys down,’ ” said Bremner, “rather, ‘Let’s get moving and deal with the issues.’ “People have been very good about the process and getting involved.” Having a way of managing short-term rentals gives the municipality the tools it needs to deal with issues and encourages property owners to be more responsible about who they’re renting to, he suggested. If there are complaints — for instance, a noisy party — a bylaw
officer will attend the home and ask offenders to shut it down. If it continues, the on-mountain property manager will be asked to respond and if that doesn’t work,
“WE’VE TRIED TO GIVE OUT AS MANY WARNINGS AS WE CAN AND COME JANUARY, WE WILL START TO ENFORCE THIS.” homeowners will be fined $200. Bremner said if problem homes continue to be problematic, the municipality has the option of revoking or not issuing a business licence. One section of properties in Sun Peaks will continue to enjoy the reduced rezoning application rate of $500 until Dec. 31, allowing the municipality more time to figure out how nightly rentals in duplexes might work under the building code. Bremner said they are expecting a consultant’s report back on the issue in December or January.
Not sure how many days you’ll ski or ride this winter?
Peaks Snow Cards offer flexible savings!
CANADA’S 2ND LARGEST OPENS NOVEMBER 21 SHOP PEAKS SNOW CARDS BY NOVEMBER 15 FOR OUR BEST LIFT TICKET DEALS!
+ Includes any 1 or 3 days on the mountains + SAVE UP TO 25% on lift tickets after using included day(s) + Skip the ticket window and go Direct-to-Lift 1 Day Peaks Snow Card
UNTIL NOV 15
AFTER NOV 15
Adult
$86
$96
Senior / Youth
$69
$79
Child
$43
$53
University Student
$77
$87
3 Day Peaks Snow Card
UNTIL NOV 15
AFTER NOV 15
Adult
$219
$229
Senior / Youth
$176
$186
Child
$110
$120
University Student
$196
$206
PEAKS SNOW CARD DISCOUNTS Full Day Rates
Photo: Adam Stein
4
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
SAVINGS
ADULT
SENIOR
YOUTH
CHILD
STUDENT
$77.00
–
$86.00
$69.00
$69.00
$43.00
Nov 21–Dec 18
25%
$64.50
$51.75
$51.75
$32.25
$57.75
Dec 19–Jan 3
10%
$77.40
$62.10
$62.10
$38.70
$69.30
Jan 4–Jan 29
20%
$68.80
$55.20
$55.20
$34.40
$61.60
Jan 30–Mar 13
15%
$73.10
$58.65
$58.65
$36.55
$65.45
Mar 14–Mar 27
10%
$77.40
$62.10
$62.10
$38.70
$69.30
Mar 28–Closing
25%
$64.50
$51.75
$51.75
$32.25
$57.75
Every Sunday
20%
$68.80
$55.20
$55.20
$34.40
$61.60
REGULAR RATE
opinion PAGE Don’t let the weather Man get you down
SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS INC. PO Box 1043 Sun Peaks BC V0E 5N0
Phone: 250•578•0276
BRANDI SCHIER PUBLISHER’S NOTE
For comments, questions, concerns email: editor@sunpeaksnews.com Email your classifieds or ads to: editor@sunpeaksnews.com
www.sunpeaksnews.com @sunpeaksnews /sunpeaksnews sunpeaksnews @sunpeaksnews
#sunpeaksnews
OUR TEAM EDITOR & PUBLISHER Brandi Schier
brandi@sunpeaksnews.com
GRAPHIC ARTIST Jen Schier
jen@sunpeaksnews.com
WRITERS
Jean Strong Tracy Gilchrist Kirsten Flinn Carmen Ruiz
CONTRIBUTORS Gerald Allgaier Mel Rothenburger 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.
ON THE
COVER
Photos submitted by Kaleb Weston from Inflik Media
brandi@sunpeaksnews.com
W
e’ve all read them. The dozens of winter weather prediction articles clogging up your social media feed. You can’t help yourself; you click and immediately regret your actions. By all accounts it’s going to be a “monster” El Niño year, with the Pacific hovering around three degrees warmer than normal, sending all sorts of weird weather across the globe. Stronger than any such system since 1998, it’s predicted to bring warmer winter temperatures to most of Canada. And this is not welcome news following one of the sorriest snow years in recent memory in the Pacific Northwest. But I’m here to remind you it’s not all doom and gloom. Winter is coming and that’s reason to celebrate. Period. Plus, in my opinion, the headlines are overstating the situation. For a local approach I reached out to my old snow reporting
friends, EnviroBC, who provide the daily weather forecasts for the resort’s website. They focus specifically on the tiny dot on the map that is Sun Peaks, which is more accurate than pulling province-wide or Kamloops data. “There is wide agreement that this winter will be milder than normal but this doesn’t mean that the whole winter will be this way,” said Rob Pigott of EnviroBC. “Even in El Niño years, there are periods of cold, or even very cold temperatures, with Arctic outbreaks. However, these are usually of short duration and then the Pacific flow brings a warming trend often accompanied by heavy snowfalls in southern Interior mountains.” When it comes to the amount of snow, it’s difficult to pin down. However, he pointed to the fact that in the past El Niño years, the warmer waters off the South American coast split the jet stream in two — north and south. “The northern storm track is significant — this is what usually gives southern Interior mountains lots of snow,” he said.
Let’s keep an eye on that one. He also pulled snow data from 1987-88 and 1997-98, both significant El Niño winter seasons. While there was wide variation in the monthly amounts, both winters saw over 400 cm of snow. It’s not quite our six metre average, but both were decent snow years. But all of this speculation is beside the point. Guaranteed, there are powder days ahead. If you haven’t already, start dreaming of snowy mornings, filled with treed lines, face shots and high fives from friends. Don’t let hypothetical weather predictions bring you down! The first dustings of white stuff on Tod have arrived. Along with the requisite ski film releases and gear guides, this issue is meant to help you set the stoke for the upcoming winter, including a catch-up with our friends from Inflik, articles on some of our community’s snow-based organizations, as well as a new comic strip from local Ben Morris titled “The Lift”. The countdown is on to Opening Day — see you on the chair!
Keeping it positive: Liberal rule might not be so bad GERALD ALLGAIER POLITICAL Point of View gerald@sunpeaksnews.com
“My boy’s gonna play in the big league.” — Tom Cochrane & Red Rider. Coming from third place in the polls to gain a Parliamentary majority, the Liberal Party (under what was wrongly assumed by the ruling Conservatives to be politically moribund) gained a historic, and not altogether surprising, victory. A few years ago, the national polls were far more accurate than B.C. polls in predicting the growing Liberal and waning Conservative and NDP popularity. But they did underestimate the Liberal tsunami and the visceral dislike voters had for the incumbents. The Tories shot themselves in the feet in many ways. The
negative ads portraying Justin Trudeau as unprepared came across as churlish and upon constant repetition, frankly annoying. The holier-than-thou-attitude of the Conservative campaign with its lack of commitment to real conservative principles of fiscal responsibility ($150 billion of new debt), and obsessive need to muzzle scientists, closure of a key Coast Guard station just after an oil spill in Vancouver’s harbor, plus its insistence that marijuana is “infinitely more dangerous than tobacco”, among numerous other irritants, put people off the Conservative brand and made them turn up at the polls in higher numbers than in a decade to toss them out. Call it a death by a thousand cuts. The NDP also suffered a whipping, and is now once again relegated to third place instead of making the great leap from Offi-
cial Opposition to parliamentary control. The leader, Thomas Mulcair, sounded positive throughout the campaign and kept clear of the mudslinging but lacked real fire. He sounded more like an increasingly boring college professor than a firebrand socialist with enervating ideas. The party took their base as a given and were not rewarded for that attitude. Trudeau’s message in the last two weeks of the campaign was textbook in that he praised Canadians and their innate good nature, pointed out the numerous foibles and blunders by the Conservatives and appealed to peoples’ ideas that the government was really on their side and was going to be a positive force uniting and bettering the country. People liked the freshness of the idea and voted accordingly. All will not be smooth sailing for the new PM. His wish list is
FROM
sunpeaksnews.com
RE: SUN PEAKS CENTRE ON HOLD “There’s an incredibly under-utilized soccer field in the perfect position to house this. Plus there’s more than enough room to add a new Medical Centre to the complex (which the resort desperately needs). In addition to being located an easy walking distance from almost anywhere in the village, it’s also at the end of a culde-sac meaning that “through traffic” from vehicles is almost non-existent. Add to this the potential to redevelop the current community centre / pool (a pool which is not going to operate after this summer due to high operating costs in any case) into something that can be used as a permanent school (to save the cost of building a new one in the East Village which is 15 to 20 years away at best) and you’ve made the best long term investment in the resort core possible and at the lowest possible cost. There is already considerable funds set aside for the Medical Center so why not leverage that to achieve multiple positive outcomes for the future benefit of all. If you want bang for your buck then this is it.” - Ian Watson, Sun Peaks, B.C.
long and possibly expensive. He will start off with the no-brainers; writing a letter allowing Federal scientists real academic freedom was a good start. He will discuss directly with First Nations to get basic infrastructure on reserves to approach Canadian standards. Marijuana will be either decriminalized or outright legalized. Veterans will be treated with respect rather than scorn. These are all easy and relatively cheap. As with most governments, the economy will be the big issue. Our resource-based, commodity-driven economic model will endure low prices and reduced demand for several more years. Revenues to government from this sector are falling and aren’t being replaced my manufacturing, despite the low loonie. Real change may be a ways off, but let’s give the new guy a chance and hope for the best.
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 Indpendent News reserves the right to edit letters for length, style, legality & taste. Letters not published in Sun Peaks Indpendent News may be published online at www.sunpeaksnews.com Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
5
Report outlines potential Sun Peaks Centre sites
IN
health
FREE FLU SHOTS AVAILABLE FILE PHOTO
by TRACY GILCHRIST
O
f six sites considered for the Sun Peaks Centre, the best two options are Parcel R, currently used for RV parking, and Parcel Q, adjacent to the Kookaburra development. Both locations offer enough room for the planned NHL-sized hockey rink, are highly visible and within walking distance of the hotel core, according to a report released last month by an independent consultant. Hired by Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality, Coriolis Consulting Corp. looked at sites previously outlined in a 2012 analysis done for Sun Peaks Resort LLP about where to locate a multiplex. Other than parcels R and Q, this included: • land adjacent to Bento’s and the road, • the stables, where the temporary outdoor rink exists on provincial land,
• space between the 12th and 13th holes of the golf course, known as the Master Plan Site, and • the large vacant P5-East Village area where land work for the rink had started earlier this year until an impasse on location emerged between the municipality and resort. The report deemed the latter four less desirable for a variety of reasons ranging from lack of space, limited parking and remote location. The municipality wants to see a facility that will appeal to residents, accommodate a wide range of uses and “help expand and diversify the Sun Peaks economy,” the report says, while the resort views the proposed rink as a recreation asset without much potential for visitor use, thus is less concerned about it being centrally located. Mayor Al Raine and Rob Bremner, the municipality’s chief administrative officer, have had preliminary discussions
with the resort and planned to meet with the board before the end of October to discuss potential sites. Once the location is decided, the municipality plans to start on the $1-million outdoor rink this spring. It will tout a concrete floor and refrigeration plant to keep the ice consistent, proper boards and glass, and lights. “If the sun comes out, concrete or asphalt melts the ice from underneath,” said Bremner. “The refrigeration plant keeps the floor at zero, which keeps the floor cold and retains the ice.” Eventually, the goal is to put a roof over the rink, he said, which could allow the space to be used for other purposes like weddings, conventions and concerts. For this winter, however, the small outdoor rink near the stable compound will have to suffice. The Coriolis report is available online in the Sept. 28 council agenda package and can be found under New Business, Rink Facilities Report.
TOURISM SUN PEAKS
Community Update: November 2015 Sun Peaks received a 3-page feature in the prestigious SKI Magazine publication in their October issue, a result of a media fam tour in January 2015. This was a particularly big win for resort exposure and awareness, as SKI Magazine is one of the top publications within the industry with a distribution of approximately 450,000 copies across North America. In October, TSP pitched Sun Peaks stories to qualified ski media at events in Boulder, CO and Toronto, ON. TSP launched its digital online consumer campaign mid-October, featuring the Early Book By (November 15) Ski & Stay, 3 For 2 package. The campaign targets skiers in the Lower Mainland, Seattle, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto, and Ottawa, complementing recent and upcoming promotion at the in-market ski shows. Staff reports from the Toronto Ski Show indicate a strengthening interest for Sun Peaks from the leisure ski traveller in Ontario. Sun Peaks was also featured in Skican, Merit, and Gendron tour operator show booths and on Gendron’s brochure cover.
The Sun Peaks Health Clinic will host a flu clinic on Saturday, Nov. 14 at Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Lodge from 5 to 7 p.m. Barb Brodie with the Sun Peaks Health Association reported that this
event is in its 12th successful year. The vaccines are free. If anyone has questions regarding the flu shots, please contact your doctor or local your local health professional.
LETTER TO THE
editor
CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER THANKS ELECTION WORKERS I would like to take this opportunity to thank the more than 230,000 Canadians who contributed to the successful delivery of the 42nd general election. Once again, Canadians were willing to take time from their busy lives, making personal and professional sacrifices to work long hours to ensure their fellow citizens could exercise their democratic right to vote and receive the election results without delay following the close of the polls. I am overwhelmed by the exceptional professionalism and dedication our election workers have demonstrated in serving Canadian electors, often in very challenging circumstances. Some three million more Canadians voted at this federal general election than at the 2011 election, resulting in the highest voter turnout in more than 20 years. There was a remarkable level of voter activity throughout the election, which in some instances resulted in
wait times at both the advance polls and on election day. Our election workers provided the best service possible to their friends and neighbours in communities across our great land – for that is the true strength of our electoral process: Canadians working hard to make it possible for their fellow Canadians to choose the elected officials who will represent them in the House of Commons. There will be time in the coming weeks and months to review our electoral procedures and consider ways they could be modernized for future elections. For now, our dedicated election workers should take great pride in their accomplishments and important contributions to our society. I know that all Canadians join me in thanking them for their excellent work in the service of democracy. Marc Mayrand Chief Electoral Officer of Canada
The first TSP quarterly Travel Trade e-newsletter was launched early October to 676 partners around the globe with a successful open rate of approximately 27%. The Winter Calendar of Events can now be viewed on www.SunPeaksResort.com. One of the season’s first events is Santa’s Alpine Visit on December 12, featuring family photo opportunities with Santa, among other fun activities. Two events are now sold out for the Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival (Comforts of Grilled Cheese and Wine & The Three Elements) with other events following closely behind. Tell your friends to book a Festival Package by November 21 to save 10%. The Sun Peaks Adventure Centre is scheduled to relocate to the Village Day Lodge on Saturday November 21. Winter operating hours are 8:00am to 6:00pm daily with extended hours during the peak holiday period.
Call 250.578.5380 or visit www.SunPeaksResort.com/Tourism
6
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
Community Grants in Aid The Municipality will be accepting 2016 Grant in Aid applications until November 30th from community based groups that did not received a grant in 2015. The full grant program guidelines can be found on our website. For more information contact Nicky Braithwaite at 250-578-2020
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30窶年ovember 27
sunpeaksnews.com
7
CONNECTIONS A creekbed of opportunity in Whitecroft PHOTO: KIRSTEN FLINN
STUDENTS LEARN THE IMPORTANCE OF HABITAT PHOTO: KIRSTEN FLINN
CAR BLAZE: Sun Peaks Elementary students get a hands on learning experience in Whitecroft.
by KIRSTEN FLINN
S
M
“The field trip was handson and very educational,” explained Sun Peaks Elementary’s grade 4-5-6 teacher Cindie Hryhirchuck. “The students enjoyed learning in this unique way.” Nicholas will continue collaborating with Sun Peaks Elementary as they spend the year learning about salmon and their lifecycles. In the spring, she and the class will release their salmon fry back to the wild, coming full circle in their exploration of this local, natural resource.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
“I LEARNED THAT THERE ARE FIVE SPECIES OF SALMON, THE IMPORTANCE OF WATER QUALITY AND HOW NECESSARY IT IS TO HAVE TREES ON THE SIDE OF THE BANK FOR FOOD AND SHADE.”
HORSE SENSE: Sun Peaks Beavers, Cubs and Scouts had a fun evening at the Stables learning about the care of horses.
CHARLOTTE Grade 5 Student
Mexican Cuisine made from the finest, freshest ingredients. All prepared by our Chef to be healthy, tasty and fresh. Early Bird Special + $12 Pitchers from 4 to 6 pm daily Located at the Heffley Boutique Inn
250-578-8343
Sun Peaks’ smallest Hotel with the greatest Rooms.
8
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
ut -o e ke bl Ta aila av
G ar rea ga t rit as
ometimes you don’t have to look very far for a pretty spectacular class field trip. Sun Peaks’ grade 4-5-6 students were treated to two days on the creekbed and farm in Whitecroft with Joanne Nicklas and her husband Gord, as they learned about salmon and their habitat. “I learned that there are five species of salmon, the importance of water quality and how necessary it is to have trees on the side of the bank for food and shade,” said grade 5 student, Charlotte. Joanne Nicklas is the salmonoid resource teacher for School District 73. That means she’s the educator behind each of the approximately 35 salmon tanks in SD73 schools. Usually she goes to the classroom – as she did last year to Sun Peaks Elementary to do dissections, and to fertilize the salmon eggs – but this year the class came to her as well.
“This was [a continuation of] a Fisheries project on [Louis Creek],” explained Nicholas of the creek that runs through her property. “In July . . . we pulled all of the bank back on the other side and we lined it with rock because we wanted to build it up; we want to get these trees growing to make it more of a pronounced creek area. Then the operator put back all of the soil he took out of there so you can’t even tell that it was dug up.” With the major work done by Fisheries, little hands were brought in to help plant trees along the creek bank to improve the riparian zone. “I really liked planting the willows and trembling aspens as well as learning about PH and turbidity,” said James, a local grade 6 student. This project is another great example of linking classroom learning to inquiry-based learning, while also connecting the students with their environment and local community members.
CONNECTIONS PHOTO SUBMITTED
Nordic isn’t a snore for Sun Peaks’ Jack Rabbits PHOTO SUBMITTED
YOUNG NORDIC NUMBERS: Events such as last year’s Kookaburra Cup bring together cross country enthusiasts, including the kids.
by SUN PEAKS NEWS
M
att and Sarah Baughan are beacons for the burgeoning Jack Rabbits Nordic skiing program at Sun Peaks Resort. The siblings took time out of their Saturday morning to sing the program’s praises, each of them saying their crosscountry skiing abilities have improved greatly over the past three years, since the program’s inaugural season. “I think I’ve gotten a lot better than I used to be,” said Matt, a Grade 7 student at South Sahali elementary. “It’s pretty easy to classic ski now because you’re just going pretty slow but, when you’re skate skiing, it’s a lot harder. You’re really working hard.” Tourism Sun Peaks president and Jack Rabbits instructor Christopher Nicolson has watched the program grow to about 30 students and he expects to see more when the season begins in December. “From a social standpoint and a fun factor, the main driver for us as coaches is making sure the kids have fun,” Nicolson said. “Then you lay out all the health benefits, introducing them to movement on snow and the benefits that physical literacy has, not just for that year, but for the
rest of their lives.” The program, originally for five- to 12-year-old skiers, has expanded and now features a 13-and-over junior division. Sarah, a 13-year-old Grade 8 student at South Kamloops Secondary, is debunking the myth that Nordic skiing is boring. “I like how at the end of the year they do the mini-Olympics,” she said. “They do races and treasure hunting, and there are really beautiful trails. I like going with my dog.” The Sun Peaks Nordic Club and the Overlander Ski Club have Jack Rabbits programs, which exist across the country and seem to be experiencing growth in recent years. “For most coaches, it’s about sharing and helping these kids learn life-long skills,” Nicolson said. “Some of them are parents and the other half aren’t. “They’re people from the community who have gone through varying degrees of training programs, volunteer coaches that are certified through Cross Country Canada.” Some of the students are registered in Jack Rabbits, which operates on Saturdays, and the Sun Peaks Alpine Club, which offers youth programming on Sundays. “Parents come up and make a weekend out of it,” Nicolson said. “It’s been a very, very successful program. I talk to other
“I TALK TO OTHER COACHES AROUND THE PROVINCE AND THEY’RE IMPRESSED AND SHOCKED WE HAVE THAT MANY KIDS INVOLVED ALREADY.” coaches around the province and they’re impressed and shocked we have that many kids involved already.” The students are split into two groups, with the older children in one and the younger in another. There is an eight-week program for the youngsters and a 13-week offering for the older skiers. “I really like how there is two groups,” Sarah said. “You get learn to learn new techniques.” The Jack Rabbits program has received boosts in recent years from a Kamloops Blazers Sports Society grant and Pacific Sport Interior BC sponsorship. Both the Baughan siblings said they enjoy the competitions, such as the annual Holy Cow Nordic Loppet, and the social aspect of experiencing the outdoors with friends. “Oh, and the hot chocolate, I like drinking it after the race, too,” Matt said.
NEWS ENROLLMENT UP IN SUN PEAKS ELEMENTARY Sun Peaks Elementary has 54 students this school year, up from the anticipated enrollment set in March when the student number had dropped to 38. To correspond with the student numbers, the school district decided to go down to two classrooms. However, with the increased number of students this fall, the school has been restored to three classrooms with three teachers. “It’s great to see the increase. We’re very happy to see the existing families staying in Sun Peaks and also to welcome new families to the community,” said Maria Cannon, co-chair of the Sun Peaks Elementary Parent Advisory Council. “We’ve seen new families from within B.C., as well as from the Maritimes and New Zealand.” An additional four students have also expressed interest in transferring in. In the Sun Peaks Secondary Academy (grades 7 to 12) enrollment was slightly down to 13. They hosted their Annual General Meeting on October 26. The school first opened in September 2010 with one classroom and 19 students. There are now four classrooms including one for the Sun Peaks Secondary Academy.
• groceries
• produce
Meat & Produce • Baked Goods Oso Negro Coffee • Pharmacy/Personal Items
WE’RE OPEN DAILY For all your Grocery Needs See you at the Bluebird Market Located on the Ground Floor of the Residences at Sun Peaks Grand Phone: 250-578-2414 Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
9
&
ARTS ENTERTAINMENT Local arts group looking for love ART ZONE SUN PEAKS AGM NOVEMBER 13 PHOTO SUBMITTED
SHARING THE KNOWLEDGE: Artist Alex Fong at a recent Meet the Artist event.
by BRANDI SCHIER
W
hen Whitecroft resident and acrylic wildlife artist Judy Kalas heard there was a local group of art enthusiasts forming in Sun Peaks she knew she would join. “I was so excited to have the opportunity to get to know other people and artists,” she said.
That was in 2011 when Art Zone Sun Peaks was in its infancy. Since then, the group has held several workshops each year bringing in well-known artists, organized many well-attended social functions, held open studio sessions and sold local art for fundraising efforts. Today, it has grown to around 40 members. But recent events have caused the group to falter in
its momentum. First was the loss of its home space, a donated location in the Fireside Lodge which is now no longer available. “It was so nice to have a presence in the village. People could drop in, we could hold workshops and people could permanently hang work,” said Kalas. “It was a big loss for us. Space in the village is so expensive, it’s just not
possible for us to rent.” Then several of their board members stepped down due to illness and other unfortunate circumstances, leaving them short on human resources. All upcoming winter workshops and other events are now on hold until more volunteers are found. Organizers hope November’s AGM will be a rallying point and are urging residents to come out to hear what they’re all about. It will be held in the meeting room at the Cahilty Lodge on Nov. 13. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by the meeting at 7 p.m. with a social to follow. Refreshments and “nibbles” will be provided. “What we really need are people who are willing to volunteer their time to help organize events. Even if they aren’t artists themselves, we need people with organization skills or bookkeeping skills. It’s a great opportunity to do some community volunteering with a great group.” While there are board posi-
tions to be filled, Kalas said even small time commitments would help, such as helping with just one event or meeting. Organizers are also hoping to attract new members from different artistic backgrounds such as theatre, music or writing, as the organization was founded mainly by visual artists. “It would be great to see more young people get involved. Maybe some musicians could have a jam night,” said Kalas. It was the social aspect that appealed most to Kalas but according to her there are many membership benefits, including learning new artistic skills, trying new mediums, experiencing new kinds of art and contributing to an important part of the community. “Art shows your culture, part of who you are, what you do and what your values are. Just like in any community, whether you’re in the north or on the Coast. The art will reflect your community, its views and even its politics.”
Local artist shares talent with young and old NEW ART CLASSES NOW RUNNING PHOTO SUBMITTED
“I THINK THERE IS A GROWING RECEPTION FOR THE ARTS IN SUN PEAKS.” LIZ DERKSEN Local Artist
HAVING FUN WITH ART: Derksen shows off one of her newest works in her home studio.
by BRANDI SCHIER
L
ocal artist Liz Derksen is offering semi-private art classes from her home-based studio. After a request for private
10
sunpeaksnews.com
lessons she decided to offer small group classes for both kids and adults focusing on sketching, drawing and painting. Classes will run for six weeks and consist of one weekly, two
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
hour session for $150. While the adult class is currently full, she has room for two more children to fill her five student allotment. Classes started October 26 and are open to ages seven and up.
All materials are included in the price. “Our main goal is to have fun! I want to offer more than just the basics of painting,” she said. Derksen has always been an artist and started showing her work around three years ago. Her background includes both acrylic painting and cartooning. She has also been teaching art one afternoon a week at Sun Peaks Elementary School. “I think there is a growing reception for the arts in Sun Peaks,” she said. Derksen is also interesting in throwing painting parties in her studio for local residents. “It would be a three hour evening with painting and wine. It’s a great alternative for people who want to have some fun and paint but don’t want to sign up for a full set of classes,” she said.
People are welcome to drop into her studio in The Cottages anytime. To find a good time or to sign up classes email liz61d@shaw.ca.
&
ARTS ENTERTAINMENT
EVENTLISTINGS MONDAY
MONDAY
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Municipal office located in the Kookaburra Lodge.
$325 for 3 days Get your season started with CSIA Level 4 instructors and enjoy the best early season snow conditions in Canada.
www.sunpeaksmunicpality.ca
www.sunpeaksmunicipality.com
snowsports@sunpeaksresort.com
FRIDAY & SATURDAY
www.sunpeaksmunicpality.ca
WINTER EXTREME SHOW & SWAP
FRIDAY
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
SNOW STOKE FILM PREMIERE
GLENN BOND NORDIC SKI CAMP
NOVEMBER 2
7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Municipal office located in the Kookaburra Lodge
NOVEMBER 6 & 7
Canadian Ski Patrol fundraiser at the Kamloops Soccer Dome. Drop off on Friday evening. www.interiorwellness.com
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 7 & 8 INTERIOR WELLNESS FESTIVAL
Coast Kamloops Conference Centre Advance regisration is required The best of healthy living and yoga in the BC Interior. kamloopsskiswap@gmail.com www.bluebirddayfund.com events@sunpeaksresort.com
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 7
8TH ANNUAL FALL BALL
Doors open at 7 p.m., Masa’s Bar + Grill, +19 event This year’s theme is The Roaring 20s! Red carpet photos, Live music by Speakerbox and guest DJs, free snack bar, cash bar, Bluebird Day Fund merchandise. All proceeds go to the Bluebird Day Fund. www.bluebirddayfund.com
FRIDAY
NOVEMBER 13
NOVEMBER 19
NOVEMBER 20
TRU Clocktower at 7 p.m. Sponsored Sun Peaks Resort and Oronge Boardshop Entry by donation with all proceeds going to the Bluebird Day Fund elevation@sunpeaksresort.com
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 21
SUN PEAKS RESORT OPENING DAY
Get ready for another season at Canada’s second largest ski area! Check the website for condition updates closer to the event. www.sunpeaksresort.com
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 21
SUN PEAKS ANNUAL FIREFIGHTERS GALA
Hosted by the Sun Peaks Volunteer Firefighters Society in support of the Sun Peaks Health Centre & Adapative Sports. Cocktails at 5:30 p.m. and Dinner at 7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference. $90 + tax, Mountain Formal reservations@sunpeaksgrand.com
ADAPTIVE SPORTS STUDENT REGISTRATION
3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Sahali Mall in Kamloops. One of two events scheduled for student registration 2015/2016 season. Get your memberships completed and paid for along with the payment for the locals lessons. www.adativesportsatsunpeaks.org
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 21
BOTTOMS’ OPENING DAY CELEBRATIONS More details to be announced!
www.facebook.com/bottomssunpeaks
WEDNESDAY
NOVEMBER 25
FRIDAY
NOVEMBER 13
SUN PEAKS ART ZONE AGM AND WINTER SOCIAL
6:30 p.m. registration and 7 p.m. meeting, followed by the social Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Lodge Everyone is welcome at this community event. hello@artzonesunpeaks.com
BATH BOMB WORKSHOP BY SUN PEAKS SOAP WORKS 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Flourish Centre on Vicotria St. in Kamloops $35 per person mtnwellnessco@gmail.com
FRIDAY TO SUNDAY
DECEMBER 4 TO 6
WINTER KICK-OFF WEEKEND
@sunpeaksnews
SKI IMPROVEMENT CAMP
INthe
arts
EVE OF OPENING DAY FILM PREMIERE IN KAMLOOPS FILE PHOTO
DECEMBER 5 TO 6
Classic or Skating - Glenn Bond Cross Country Ski Camps are all about you. You tell our professional team of coaches what you are looking for in your camp experience and we deliver. glen_bond@me.com
MONDAY
DECEMBER 7
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
FILE PHOTO
7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Municipal office located in the Kookaburra Lodge www.sunpeaksmunicpality.ca
MONDAY
DECEMBER 7 TOONIE DAY
Ski or ride Sun Peaks for just $2 plus non-perishable food donation. All proceeds go to the Kamloops Food Bank. Over $6,000 and a trailer full of food was raised last year! www.sunpeaksresort.com
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 12
SANTA’S ALPINE VISIT
In the village from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Photos with Santa, winter activity demos, market vendors, live music, storytelling with Santa’s elves and gingerbread decorating. www.sunpeaksresort.com
MONDAY
DECEMBER 21
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Municipal office located in the Kookaburra Lodge. www.sunpeaksmunicipality.com
WATCH FOR SUN PEAKS NEWS’ NEW ONLINE COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
Excited for winter? Sun Peaks Resort and Oronge Board Shop will be hosting the Snow Stoke Film Premiere in the TRU Clock Tower building on November 20. Doors open at 7 p.m., entry is by donation and all proceeds go towards the Bluebird Day Fund. Two films will be shown, Fade to Winter by Matchstick
Productions and The Balance Movie by Transworld Snowboarding. Both feature professional skiers and snowboarders who travel the world, looking for fresh powder. So if you’re aching for winter, be sure to check out this event and support a great local cause at the same time.
COMING SOON
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM /sunpeaksnews
Advertise in Sun Peaks Independent News for as little as $20 per month. Call today to place your advertisement.
250-578-0276 or visit
sunpeaksnews.com/classifieds
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
11
CRIME GOLF COURSE VANDALIZED POLICE SEARCHING FOR WHITE JEEP
Error on voter cards causes confusion for Sun Peaks voters
PHOTO SUBMITTED
by JEAN STRONG
A
PUTTING WOES: Golf course staff hope the 10th green will be in shape for the 2016 golf season.
On the early morning hours of Sunday, October 11, golf course workers discovered extensive damage to the 10th green on the Sun Peaks Golf Course. Video surveillance showed a small SUV-type vehicle tearing up the green, pulling donuts and spinning out. “To replace the green in its entirety it would be around $30,000 in sod and labour,” said Keith Lyall, golf course superintendent for Sun Peaks Resort LLP. Lyall said the resort won’t be pursuing that route due to the prohibitive cost and instead will be attempting to repair the green at a cost of around $5,000. The course was open for walking play only when
the damage occurred and the green was closed for the remainder of season. Golfers could play to the 100 yard mark. “We are hopeful it will be ready for next spring but the damage could affect putting conditions next season. It remains to be seen,” said Lyall. Police are looking for a white Jeep Wrangler-type vehicle with a black canopy and one burned out tail light. The Jeep will be a two door model, possibly with a black removable canopy. If anyone has information please contact the TK’emlups Rural RCMP at 250-314-1800 or Crimestoppers at 1-800222-8477. There were no leads at time of publication.
Kamloops Rural RCMP responded to nine calls in Sun Peaks over the month of September including four security alarm breaches, two calls related to motor vehicles, one report of theft, one report of a gun shot and one report of vandalism. RCMP received many tips through Crimestoppers relating to the July hit and run causing bodily harm, however the suspect or vehicle involved have not been located. South East Traffic Services has been asked to take another look at the file to generate additional leads.
n unknown number of Sun Peaks and Whitecroft voters were surprised when their Federal voter information cards arrived and directed them to the Heffley Creek Community Hall to cast their ballots. Natalie Babin Dufresne, spokesperson for Elections Canada, said she couldn’t say the reason for this specific situation without further investigation, but there were a number of reasons it could have happened. One possible explanation had to do with the creation of thirty new electoral districts across the country. “We went to a redistribution process which created new ridings and because of that we had to go back and take a look at all of those ridings and determine within those ridings where they were going to be putting their polling location. Some ridings changed a lot more than others… it could mean someone was sent to a polling station a little bit further than the one they were used to going to before.” Babin Dufresne also said it could have been an attempt at making a polling station more accessible, which was a focus during this election. “There’s a lot of different reasons as to why someone would have been sent a little bit further than they would have expected,” she said. Mayor Al Raine said that he was “stunned” by the misstep and was on the phone to Elections Canada as soon as he learned of the mistake. When he reached them they were already aware, and were taking steps to correct the cards and registrations. On October 6, the municipality released a statement to residents correcting the information on the cards.
“Some Sun Peaks residents have received voter cards that show Heffley Creek Community Hall as their polling station” the release said. It went on to say the cards were issued in error and Elections Canada would be “reissuing the voters list for our area”. Elections Canada could not say whether the cards were reissued and received in time but did say “normally they would have been reissued in time for the election”.
“SOME SUN PEAKS RESIDENTS HAVE RECEIVED VOTER CARDS THAT SHOW HEFFLEY CREEK COMMUNITY HALL AS THEIR POLLING STATION.”
ESTABLISHED: 1996
SPECIALIZING IN SITE PREPARATION, RESIDENTIAL EXCAVATION, GROUND WATER ISSUES, BOULDER STACK RETAINING WALLS For Estimates: 250-851-1021 jasonw@telus.net
Solving neighbourhood issues isn’t easy MEL ROTHENBURGER TNRD REPORT director.mrothenburger@tnrd.ca
Mel Rothenburger is the TNRD Director for Electoral Area P, including Whitecroft and Heffley Creek. He was the mayor of Kamloops from 1999-2005 and a former newspaper editor.
N
eighbourhood disagreements are among the toughest problems for local governments to solve. It could be loud music, messy yards, overhanging tree branches, racing motorcycle engines, barking dogs or any number of other issues that cause neighbours to differ, but usu-
12
sunpeaksnews.com
ally it’s related to peace and quiet. A person’s home is his or her castle, and people just want to be able to enjoy it. Seldom do they go looking to get into a problem with their neighbours; in fact, they usually go to considerable lengths to avoid it. Unfortunately, when things go awry in a neighbourhood, they often impact several homes, not just the ones next door to each other. Bylaws are there to settle differences when they happen, but bylaws can’t
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
fix everything. I’ll give you an example. The situation has been going on in a neighbourhood in our electoral area for several months and it involves a couple of dogs and a 16 ft. by 32 ft. outbuilding being used to shelter them. The dogs are cougar hounds, and neighbours say they’re kept in the kennel-like building except when taken out for hunting. Noise, odor and dog feces have been issues, though the dogs have been fixed and fitted with barking collars
and the noise apparently isn’t as serious as it used to be. Several other remedies have been tried. The TNRD has an anti-noise bylaw but enforcement hasn’t been deemed appropriate for this situation. The SPCA has been consulted, again to no avail. Nevertheless, the matter came before the TNRD board — on a zoning matter. The dogs’ building was constructed on a concrete slab too close to the property line, and after a complaint the owner sought a variance to allow it.
Staff recommended against granting the variance for reasons unrelated to the dog issue. The board was unanimous in agreeing with the recommendation, and the variance was rejected. Rejecting the variance won’t in itself resolve the issue between neighbours. If the owner moves the dogs’ shelter only about a meter further away from the property line, it will become legal. I argued in vain that the regional district should seek other ways of intervention, such as media-
tion, to find a permanent solution to concerns but the fact is the TNRD has no other enforcement tools that fit. I find it frustrating when we can’t play a more effective role in helping maintain the livability of neighbourhoods. Certainly, there are many times when rules do help sort things out, but sometimes the rules that we have in place, or are within our authority, just aren’t enough. In this case, it looks very much as though the neighbourhood itself will have to find the answers.
SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM
OR POST YOUR PHOTOS USING #SUNPEAKSNEWS @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Mt. Tod’s perfect reflection is mirrored on the Sun Peaks Golf Course on a crisp fall day. (Photo by Roger Mirka)
A lonely but beautiful tree shows its gold colours. (Photo by Roger Mirka)
A crunchy walk on the village trail. (Photo by Diane Clark)
Their own version of a Thanksgiving feast. (Photo by Steve Berndsen)
The sun sets on another glorious autumn day at McGillivray Lake. (Photo by Steve Bernsden)
inPHOTOS
Exploring Sun Peaks from a different perspective. (Photo by Charmaine Galderbraith)
A low fall fog fall hangs over the village. (Photo by Arun Kottaram)
Just another day at the office for Sun Peaks Stables. (Photo by Rebecca Spray)
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
13
Municipality works to ensure funding by JEAN STRONG
S
un Peaks will be working with other British Columbian resort municipalities to create a proposal for the continuation of the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) past 2016. Mayor Al Raine and Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) chief administrative officer Rob Bremner attended the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Convention in Vancouver from September 21 to 25. They met with Shirley Bond, provincial minister of jobs, tourism and skills training, and other resort municipalities to discuss the best way to continue this program that helps support 14 municipalities. The RMI is a funding program from the provincial government which has allowed these communities to “dedicate resources to improving tourism-based infrastructure and amenities to attract more visitors and encourage longer stays”. For 2015-16, Sun Peaks received $289,472 of the $10.5 million distributed. Sun Peaks has been participating in the
RMI program since 2011 and has received $1.6 million overall. The majority of funding has gone towards a summer events program orchestrated by Tourism Sun Peaks with the support of the municipality. Sun Peaks has been a recipient of RMI funding since 2012. The program expires in 2016 and Mayor Al Raine will be involved in working with delegates from five other resort municipalities to draft a proposal on how the program should continue. An increase of 2 per cent in hotel tax was discussed, some of which is transferred to the municipality. There was also debate on the best use for the extra funding. Raine said for Sun Peaks this tax is “critical”, but more effective collaboration and communication between provincial and municipal governments would be key and the increase still needs approval. Sun Peaks’ residents face higher-than-average taxes as the municipality is over two times the average assessment for property tax. Raine believes the municipality needs more funding from hotel tax revenues than they currently receive.
Local businesses honoured at Kamloops Chamber Awards PHOTO: KENT WONG
Izzy Hamptonsone with Ryan Deneault and Krishna Lakkineni.
PHOTO: KENT WONG
Christopher Nicolson with Bryce Herman and Dr. Robert Hood presenting and accepting on Bodie Shando’s behalf.
by BRANDI SCHIER
“I’M JUST INCREDIBLY HONOURED, FIRST JUST TO BE NOMINATED.” BODIE SHANDO Paddle Surfit Owner
Embrace winter's arrival with friendly service and great food!
T
wo Sun Peaks-based businesses walked away from the 29th annual Kamloops Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards Gala with highly coveted awards. Over 200 businesses were nominated after applications naming over 500. Only a handful went on to become finalists in 18 categories, including Sun Peaks Resort LLP, Paddle SurfIt (a stand up paddle board tour company), and Brain Train International: The Specialist in Confidence, who provides mental performance training. Isabell Hamptonstone, owner and founder of Brain Train International: The Specialist in Confidence, won the IKGHM International - Ajax Project Home Based Business of the Year. “To think just five years ago, this business was launched in a rented room in Sun Peaks, with just a laptop and a desk,” said Hamptonstone. “Business owners in Sun Peaks face unique
challenges in developing their businesses. For any business to do well in a mountain municipality is an achievement and I’m proud to be a business owner in Sun Peaks.” Hired by business leaders and sports professionals around the world, Hamptonstone uses technology such as Skype and Facetime to connect with her clients. Bodie Shando, owner and founder of Paddle Surfit on Heffley Lake, won the TRU Faculty of Adventure, Culinary Arts & Tourism and Tourism Sun Peaks Tourism Award. “I’m just incredibly honoured, first just to be nominated,” said Shandro. “But to receive the award, especially with such an esteemed group of finalists. I’m sincerely honoured.” Shandro’s competition included local wineries and Sun Peaks Resort itself. “I wish I could have been there. Unfortunately, I was at a surfing event in Tofino. As you may know, I’m much more comfortable in wetsuit than a business suit.”
DRINK SPECIAL: $4 Cans of Beer Starting opening day for winter operations, November 21: Happy Hour from 4:00pm to 5:00pm, daily Happy Endings drinks specials after 8:00pm, daily Check out our new dinner menu! Located in the Sun Peaks Village Day Lodge | Call 250.578.5434
Try a cold, caffeinated Starbucks Frappuccino for only $5.50 during the month of November. LOCATED IN THE SUN PEAKS VILLAGE DAY LODGE
14
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
PROTECT YOUR GAS METER 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. Don’t 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, 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. There is no charge for the Utility staff to 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 the office at 250-578-5490. Remember SPUCL’s after hours emergency # 250-319-0629.
BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/classified FOR RENT
ACCOM WANTED
Luxury one bedroom for rent. Fully furnished, above garage, timber beam 20 ft ceilings. Private entrance, full size W/D. No smoking, no pets. Cable TV included. $1100/mnth. Contact 604862-0556 or sherryakeane@gmail.com. Older 2 bedroom house private 2km south of Whitecroft. Electric and wood heat. $650/mo no pets (because of coyotes). Contact s435@yahoo.com Fairways Dr – Seeking well established reliable middle aged couple or two couples or family with excellent references to share a very nice & spacious 3 BR & 3 Bath home, completely furnished. Two Car Garage & Hot tub. Short walk to village. Covered Patio overlooks golf course & mountain. Open to winter only through April or prefer 10 month lease. Utilities, Cable & wireless internet included. Rent rate $3,000 minimum subject to interview and references. Mature tenants preferred. GKM9611@AOL.com or text 206-617-5711. Seattle Owner.
Two reliable, responsible 19 years old guys searching for accommodation during the entire winter season. We have jobs at the ski hill. No pets, non-smokers, quiet and clean. References are available. Also willing to share accommodations. Looking for a long term rental (6 months) of a house commencing November/December, 2015. Preference is for large, modern, luxury stand-alone furnished house with 4+ bedrooms and a very strong preference for ski-in/skiout locations. Would consider 12 month rental if required. Please respond to bhuntington@armourre.bm with details.
EMPLOYMENT Sun Peaks Lodge & Steakhouse is hiring for Dec-Apr Line Cooks, Housekeepers. We offer: competitive wages, seasons pass. Please send resume to info@ sunpeakslodge.com or drop off. Sun Peaks News requires a trained
ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS ADS ARE PLACED DAILY
journalist with a passion for the outdoors and community news. Experience in interviewing, writing, copy editing, CP style, photography, CMS, social media and layout are considered strong assets. Please send cover letter, resume, references and recent writing samples to editor@ sunpeaksnews.com.
SERVICES Sun Peaks Hair Studio “Style For Everyone” located on Burfield Dr. Cuts, Colours, Formals. Professional Service at Low Cost. www.styleforeveryone.ca. FREE DELIVERY! on all furniture & mattress purchases over $999! Same day delivery & pick-up available! Beds, bunk beds, sofas & dining sets on sale in Kamloops store! 250434-2337. See store deals at GoWFB.ca/ kamloops.
FOR SALE 1 McClary stove, 1 Admiral Stove, 1 Magic Chef Fridge, 1 Admiral Stove. $150 each or 2 for $250. 250-578-7949.
THE LIFT Uhh, Dude. I don’t think that you’re supposed to burn your ‘New’ ski gear!
Red Tree Designs COMING SOON to Alpine Images Photography
©Ben Morris
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 6:30 pm Monday, November 16, 2015 Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipal Council gives notice that it will hold a Public Hearing in Council Chambers at 106-3270 Village Way, Sun Peaks, BC, to consider proposed Bylaws 0051, 0052, 0053, 0054 and 0055.
What are Zoning Amendment Bylaws 0051, 0052, 0053 and 0054? They are a change to Zoning Bylaw No. 1400 to rezone lands at 2306 Sunburst Place, 2316 Sunburst Place, 2445 Fairways Drive and 5342 Lookout Ridge Drive respectively, from RS-1: Residential Single Family One to RS-1A: Residential Single Family One – Tourist Accommodation Zone to permit tourist accommodation (nightly/short-term rental).
What is Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw 0055? It is a change to Zoning Bylaw No. 1400 to allow the issuance of tickets under the Bylaw Enforcement Notification Bylaw in place of enforcement through the court system initially. All persons who believe that their interests may be affected by the proposed Bylaws shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the Public Hearing. Additionally, they may make written submissions on the matter of these Bylaws which must be received at our office prior to 4:00 p.m. on the 13th day of November 2015. The entire content of all submissions will be made public and form a part of the public record for this matter.
How do I get more information?
A copy of the proposed Bylaws and all supporting information can be inspected from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday (except statutory holidays) at our office from November 2, 2015 until 4:00 p.m. the day of the Hearing; or please contact us via any of the below options.
No representations will be received by Council after the Public Hearing has been concluded. Mail: PO Box 1002, Sun Peaks, BC V0E 5N0 Phone: 250-578-2020 Email: admin@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca
SUDOKU ANSWERS V13 I10
CROSSWORD ANSWERS V13 I10
MISSING CAT
If found, please call
250-572-6969
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
15
BUSINESS LISTINGS BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES
painting services & repairs
SUN PEAKS PLUMBING & HEATING
*Pre-winter specials* Get your annual safety service now Save up to 20% on fireplace, water heater & furnace maintenance Licensed, insured & bonded
CALL 250-879-1737
sunpeaksplumbingandheating.com
Pacific Paintsmith • • •
Maintenance painting Interior | Exterior General wall repairs
Richard VanCamp cel. 250.319.0577
pacificpaintsmith@hotmail.ca
BLIK HOME DEVELOPMENTS
We’ll monitor your website so you can focus on your business and we can focus on keeping your site secure.
PAUL ROBERTS Custom Responsive Web Designs built exclusively on the WordPress Platform
CUSTOM BUILDER | PROJECT MANAGER NEW HOMES | ADDITIONS
E-MAIL: blik_developments@yahoo.ca PHONE: 250 371 4880
Cathy Earle
Digital Media Specialist
peaksmedia.com • 250 434
2239
Grether Contracting
FOR SALE
Serving Sun Peaks Since 1992
Excavating Ltd. •
Excavating & Snow Clearing
•
Landscape Rock/Granite
•
1”—4”, 4”—12”, 5”—18”, Sand, Pitrun
•
1” Crush
Greg: 250 371 7800 • gzieb@telus.net
FOR SALE IN WHITECROFT
Kitchen & Bath Renovations Damage Restoration Drywall & Painting Concrete Repairs Building Maintenance & Consulting
CALL ANDRÉ "FIRST" 250-371-1753 • grether@telus.net
SERVICES General Practitioner 250-376-5354
Dental Implants
h sc u R
ENTERPRISES LTD.
ZOOM! — Whitening System
RUSCHENTERPRISESLTD@GMAIL.COM
Free Parking
Dr. D. Barry Dextraze Dentist
E-mail: drdex@shaw.ca ~ www.drdextraze.com
SHOW:
Fri., Nov. 6 • 5pm - 9pm
SHOW & SWAP: Sat., Nov. 7 • 9am - 3pm
SKI SHOW & SWAP
PHOTO: ADAM STEIN
16
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 31—November 27
Friday & Saturday November 6 & 7, 2015 313 Nishga Way Mt. Paul Soccer Dome
CONSIGNMENT DROP OFF: Fri., Nov. 6 • 5pm - 9pm EQUIPMENT PICK UP:
Sat., Nov. 7 • 5pm - 7pm
ADMISSION:
Adults $2 • 16 & under FREE!
Be sure to visit our exhibitors booths at the swap: Sun Peaks Resort Oronge Harper Mountain Visit www.winterextreme.com for Exhibitor Package or email: kamloopsskiswap@gmail.com
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
New PatieNts welcome #21-750 Fortune Drive, Kamloops
n Home Improvements n No job too small n Repairs n 25 years experience n Property Checks & n Renovations Maintenance
SUN PEAKS ONLY DEDICATED PROFESSIONAL HOT TUB COMPANY LOCATED IN THE LITTLE SHUSWAP LODGE 250 578 8669 24HR EMERGENCY CALL OUT 250 214 0464
Providing Preventive, Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry
Tim Call 20-9375 3 250-
Mechanical issues for Sun Peaks racer RACIN’ JASON WHITE IS GEARING UP FOR NEXT SEASON by SUN PEAKS NEWS
S
un Peaks’ favourite NASCAR driver, Racin’ Jason White’s season wasn’t exactly the pits, but it also wasn’t exactly one to remember. He has been focusing on the family business, Powder Ventures Excavating, and, when he did burn rubber on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series circuit, the going was tough. “I got two races in and we had mechanical problems in both, so it was kind of disappointing,” White said. “We didn’t make the finish in the races. We got halfway through both of them, we had some fun, but we didn’t get results.” White didn’t reach the checkered flag at the Leland Industries 300 presented by Johnsonville on the Sunset Speedway in Innisfil, Ont., on June 20 and the Pinty’s 250 at Kawartha Speedway in
PHOTO ASHLEY MCCUBBIN
Fraserville, Ont., on Sept. 19. “It’s a pretty big effort for our team members out west and a pretty big endeavor to go out there, and disappointing to break.” Both races were spoiled by drivetrain issues, with the transmission failing in June and the clutch faltering in September. Scott Steckly of Milverton, Ont., won the NASCAR championship, marking the fourth time he has accomplished the feat. LEAVING IT ALL ON THE TRACK: Racin’s Jason speeds by at the NCATS Pinty’s 250.
“AFTER I DO 100 RACES MAYBE I”LL LOOK AT HANGING IT UP FOR GOOD, BUT THERE’S STILL SOME FUN TO BE HAD.” JASON WHITE NASCAR
White, who drives with Hamilton-based South Coast Racing,
plans to hop back in the No. 21 A&W Dodge Challenger next year and aim for better results. The team will be upgrading its equipment and White will compete in more road-course races, a change from the ovals he raced in 2015. “Ovals are my background, but it’s easier to get sponsorship for road-course racing,” White said.
White’s best NASCAR finishes came in 2012 and 2013, where he placed fifth at races in B.C. and Quebec. His father, Marty, was inducted into the Kamloops Sports Hall of Fame earlier this year, becoming the first motorsports racer to get the nod. With more than 80 races under his belt, White is nearing the
century mark, a number he would like to reach before retiring. The race to 100 will continue in 2016. “I’ve been taking over my family business, so there’s been too much work and not enough play,” White said with a laugh. “After I do 100 races, maybe I’ll look at hanging it up for good, but there’s still some fun to be had.”
New local offers yoga classes for all PHOTO SUBMITTED
“IF YOU LEAVE CLASS HAPPIER AND FEELING BETTER ABOUT YOURSELF THEN I’VE ACCOMPLISHED SOMETHING.”
STRIKING A POSE: Vasken and her partner practise yoga with Mt. Tod in the background.
by CARMEN RUIZ
Y
oga enthusiasts, or those interested in the exercise, can now attend classes in Sun Peaks, Whitecroft and Heffley Creek, thanks to yoga instructor and new Sun Peaks resident Care Fasken. Classes, venues and scheduling can be found at Care Fasken Yoga on Facebook or at carefaskenyoga.com. Through Black Beaver CrossFit and the Hearthstone Lodge in Sun Peaks, Down the Road Wellness in Whitecroft, and additional venues in Heffley
Creek, Fasken will be offering classes for all ability levels at a rate of $10 for drop in or $80 for ten classes. She will also be tailoring several classes for those who wish to improve their overall ski and snowboard performance. Fasken, who originates from Ontario, moved to Sun Peaks in March and is relatively new to teaching but has been practising yoga for six years. “I had an intense call to teach” she said. But a lack of ongoing yoga classes left Fasken a little lost. “When I first moved up here I couldn’t really find
my niche, but as soon as I brought it to the table, I realized there were people here with the exact same passions and same interests as me and so I stepped out and said ‘it’s here’,” she said. Matt Mamone, Fasken’s fiancé and student, had nothing but high praise for his teacher. “She’s very calm and very relaxing and won’t make you feel uncomfortable at all,” said Mamone. “I want people to come in with an open mind and an open heart and to have fun. I want everyone to be as comfortable as possible, I want it to be a safe environment. If you leave class happier and feeling better about yourself, then I’ve accomplished something,” Fasken said. Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
17
Seeking volunteers: Adaptive Sports program still growing PHOTO: JODI ROBERTS
Students and instructors have fun on the slopes this past season.
STUDENT REGISTRATION SESSION ON NOVEMBER 16 by SUN PEAKS NEWS
A
nother Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks (ASSP) season is just around the corner and the blossoming organization is putting out the call for new students and volunteers. “We need a lot of instructors for the work that we do,” said Jodi Roberts, publicity co-ordinator for ASSP. “It’s very labour intensive. We need two instructors per student, at least.” ASSP, which provides opportunities for people with a wide range of disabilities to participate in snow sports and recreation programs at Sun Peaks Resort, has seen significant growth over the past four years. “We’ve doubled the amount of students and instructors,” said Roberts, noting 40 local
18
sunpeaksnews.com
students are expected to receive lessons this season. “Someone would say, ‘Well, I have MS or Parkinson’s, so I don’t think I can do it,’ and I’d be like, you’d be surprised.” “We take what you can do — whether you have upper-body strength or no upper-body strength, or you have a spinal-cord injury — and you’d be surprised at what adaptive equipment we have and what we can actually get someone to do on the mountain. “We have visually impaired skiers going down black runs.” New this year is a registration session for students at Sahali Mall from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 13. Organizers and instructors will be at the shopping centre to answer any questions parents might have. Five-week and 10-week cours-
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
es are on offer, with the lessons set to begin on Jan. 16. Roberts would like to have at least 30 volunteer instructors signed on, each of whom will provide about 100 hours worth of lessons throughout the season. The volunteers are able to choose when they work. “We have some university students that can only work on the weekends and we have some people that come during the week,” Roberts said. “It’s really up to them.” Anyone who wants to sign up or find out more is encouraged to email adaptivesportsatsunpeaks@gmail.com or go online to adaptivesportsatsunpeaks. org. “We provide all the instruction and all the adaptive equipment,” Roberts said.
“We’re always fundraising because we’re completely volunteer-based. It’s new and innovative equipment because technology changes every year.” Volunteers have to pay for training, so ASSP also raises money to help with those costs. The program, founded in 2008 by retired Kamloops principal Dick Taylor, serves the needs of people with disabilities in Kamloops and surrounding areas. Stories like the one belonging to Ryder Gillis are not hard to find and they make volunteering worthwhile, Roberts said.
Gillis, who lives with autism, had never taken to sports until he joined the program. By the time he was six, the eager skier was flying down blue runs looking to hit jumps, thanks to ASSP’s instructors. “If you’re a paraplegic, they have sit-skis and, if you’re visually impaired, they have headphones,” Ryder’s mom, Shannon, told Kamloops This Week. “And, it’s not just for children. It’s for anybody with a disability who needs help. “You should never give up.”
Volunteer ski patrol vital for mountain SUN PEAKS CSP TO HOST ANNUAL FUNDRAISER NOVEMBER 6 & 7 PHOTO SUBMITTED
THIRTEEN YEARS OF VOLUNTEERING: Paul Blackett proudly sports his ski patrol jacket and is ready for another season on the slopes.
by SUN PEAKS NEWS
I
t was dark, they were cold and their parents were terrified. “About five or six seasons ago, we had two lost young girls up the Cahilty base,” said Paul Blackett, patrol lead for the Canadian Ski Patrol (CSP) at Sun Peaks. “You’ve got kids scared out of their wits and worried parents down at the lodge. We all came together, we stayed late and we found those kids.” Blackett has been patrolling at Sun Peaks for 13 years and rescues like those are what keeps him coming back. “That’s my primary motivation, is to give back to the community,” he said. “We have roughly 41 volunteers, which gives us sufficient numbers over the course of the skiing season. Without them, the mountain would be forced to go out and hire more people, with their limited budget.” With no BC Ambulance service
available, it’s often up to ski patrol, paid and unpaid, to respond to emergencies. “The more numbers we have, the more we can offer,” Blackett said. “These are people that have full-time jobs and other commitments, so getting people out for their shifts is always a tough push.” The group is always looking for more volunteers, each of whom receive a season’s pass in exchange for about 14 work days, which usually run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. “For some of the younger folks, it might have something more to do with the pass because they’re not cheap, especially if you’re a university student or working in the hospitality industry,” Blackett said. “And, once a patroller has put in two seasons, they’re eligible for a spousal pass and, after three seasons, they can get a family pass.” Strong intermediate skiers and snowboarders are encouraged to
take part, with advanced first-aid and toboggan training courses being offered. For those with equivalent training, a short bridging course and weekend refresher with returning ski patrollers may be applicable. To learn more about volunteering or to sign up, go online to skipatrol.ca. “The last couple years we’ve hovered around 40 volunteers but, previous to that, we had very high numbers,” Blackett said. “Volunteerism is down. We’re just not getting the people we used to get out.” The Sun Peaks CSP is hosting its annual fundraiser, the Winter Extreme Ski and Board Swap, on Nov. 6 and 7 at the Kamloops Soccer Dome (313 Nishga Way). “It’s our only fundraiser of the year,” Blackett said. “It’s really important for us because it’s where we raise money for new equipment and gear.” The CSP is a registered non-profit organization with more than 4,500 members at about 230 mountain resorts from B.C. to Nova Scotia. “There are lots of feel-good stories,” Blackett said. “It’s a way to give back. There are whole-mountain efforts where everyone comes together.”
SPORTS
brief
NORTHERN TAEKWONDO ACADEMY HOSTS SEMINAR PHOTO: RYAN OEVERMANN
BC Taekwondo practitioners studying up on their umpire skills post for a group shot outside the Sun Peaks Grand
Sun Peaks is the new hot spot for the International Taekwondo Federation of BC. On October 17, the Northern Taekwondo Academy in Sun Peaks hosted an umpire course and seminar in preparation for the upcoming North American and Caribbean Championships. Twenty-four participants ranging from red belt to 7th degree black belt from across the province took to the floor and reviewed the most up to date ITF rules. The morning session covered the role of an umpire
in tournaments, patterns and pre-arranged sparring and the afternoon saw a review of the free sparring, breaking and special technique. As an added bonus, participants had the opportunity to work with a new electronic scoring system. The day ended with a certification exam. The ITC of BC Umpire Committee thanked local Ryan Oevermann and his team for their organization and hospitality and expressed a strong desire to return for another event.
“IT’S A WAY TO GIVE BACK. THERE ARE WHOLE-MOUNTAIN EFFORTS WHERE EVERYONE COMES TOGETHER.”
WESTSYDE YDE VICE SERVICE Auto Repairs Diesel Repairs Air Conditioning Repairs Gov. Certified Inspection Facility
BILL & MIKE LINDSAY Ph: 250-579-5532 Fax: 250-579-5852 3475 Westsyde Rd., Kamloops, BC V2B 8C5 Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
sunpeaksnews.com
19
ALPINE RESORT REALTY
EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED
Serving Sun Peaks and area since 1995
#45 Woodhaven - $529,900
4
4
3½
3
2
Stylish 4 bedroom plus spacious family room, ski-in,ski-out townhouse with exceptional fishing details. This 3 level mountain home features a private single car garage, dramatic vaulted ceiling in the open living area with floor to ceiling windows, beautiful views, heated tile floors, 2 sundecks & a private patio. This home is situated next to the golf course and is being sold fully furnished with hot tub. GST is not applicable.
#6 Woodhaven - $389,900
This true ski-in, ski-out, fully furnished 4 bedroom home backs directly onto forested ski terrain & the Morrisey Connector ski run. This townhome features a great open floor plan with vaulted ceiling, gourmet kitchen w/ granite countertops, spacious dining room that opens up to the large living room, 2 decks, a private patio & hot tub, private garage & extra storage. Feel the warmth & comfort with classic mountain decor & cozy gas fireplace. GST paid.
1
#6 Crystal Forest - $172,500
Top floor self contained 1 bdrm condo in popular Crystal Forest, featuring knotty pine cabinetry & trim, heated tile floors, private laundry & additional storage. Enjoy the hot tub overlooking the courtyard & Mt. Morrisey w/ year round sun exposure. This home has all the comforts of home with cozy living room, two sided gas fireplace & window seat, open dining area, full kitchen and secure underground parking. Offered fully furnished & GST is paid.
2
2½
2
2½
2
2
2
#6 Alpine Greens - $284,900
Pristine 3 bdrm, 2 bath condo features an authentic river rock wood burning fireplace w/ timber mantle, heated tile floors, newer paint & window coverings and comes fully furnished. Enjoy the sundeck overlooking the 2nd fairway & valley trail close to lifts & all resort amenities. Top floor master bdrm is spacious & comes complete w/ ensuite & private balcony w/ views of Mt. Morrisey. This “move in ready” home is south facing & is a pleasure to show. GST paid.
#16 Trail’s Edge - $365,000
Fully finished 2 bdrm, 2.5 bath ski-in, ski-out townhouse w/ hot tub. This mountain townhome features sunny south facing exposure with easy access to the village & resort amenities. Quality finishing throughout w/ inviting open living area, spacious kitchen, heated tile floors, cozy fireplace, private patio & large sundeck, 2 car tandem garage & additional storage space. This is one of the more admired projects in the resort due to the location and convenience it offers. GST applies.
1
5
1
1
4
1
1
2 2
2
Sunny courtyard location w/ south facing exposure & ski hill views of Mt. Morrisey compliment this beautiful 2 storey, 2 bdrm, 2 bath townhouse. This home is fully furnished & has 2 secure underground parking spaces, additional storage, cozy gas fireplace, heated tile floors in kitchen & baths. Crystal Forest has the ambiance of a Tyrolean Ski Village. With easy ski-in access this location offers the best of both worlds that is convenient to all resort amenities. GST paid.
4106 Sundance Drive - $1,379,000
4
This remarkable home features high end finishing & deluxe appliances that compliment the gourmet kitchen w/ solid maple cabinetry, granite countertops & stunning floor to ceiling windows. This floor plan was carefully planned as the care taken in detail. Features a 2 car garage w/ additional parking available plus a bright self contained 2 bdrm legal suite offered furnished w/ hot tub & sauna. GST paid.
Fireside Lodge starting at: $103,900 Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Lodge starting at: $69,900 Sundance Lodge starting at: $19,900 The Residences at Sun Peaks Grand starting at: $49,000 Kookaburra Lodge starting at: $169,000 Hearthstone Lodge starting at: $29,900
#33 Forest Trails - $214,900
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 13 Issue 11 October 30—November 27
1
Ski-in, ski-out, 1 bdrm condo w/ private garage & only a short walk to the Village. Enjoy the mountain & valley views and the privacy of forested green space & meandering creek from your living room and sunny patio. This is the perfect four season getaway that comfortably sleeps 4 features high ceilings, open living & dining area, cozy rock fireplace, private in suite laundry, heated tile floors in the kitchen & bathroom. Offered fully furnished w/ hot tub. GST applies.
2 2
#22 Forest Trails - $272,000
1
Upper floor 2 bdrm, 2 bath retreat nestled next to forested area and creek with mountain & valley views. Forest Trails has a peaceful setting and offers convenient ski-in, ski-out access & is a short stroll to village & all amenities. Condo features open kitchen and living area w/ nook, southwest facing sundeck, heated tile floors, gas fireplace, in suite laundry, and ensuite off master bedroom. Additional storage space in private garage and GST is applicable.
www.sunpeaksrealty.com 20
1
3
This charming 1 bdrm condo is located only minutes from all village services which makes this an attractive home to visit anytime of the year, or live year round. Cozy wood burning fireplace, natural finishes & open floor plan w/ vaulted ceiling add to the warm feeling this condo offers. This property backs onto the golf course & valley trail w/ great mountain views & if offered furnished with GST paid.
#14 Crystal Forest - $244,000
2
1
3
Immaculate 2 bdrm plus den located in the prestigious townhouse development of Woodhaven backing on to the Sun Peaks Golf Course. Great ski-in, ski- out access & beautiful mtn views. Spacious, open kitchen with luxurious quartz countertops, new flooring & lighting, cozy corner fireplace & comfortable furnishings. This mountain home has never been rented and is offered furnished with hot tub & GST paid.
#4 Alpine Greens - $189,900
#45 Trail’s Edge - $469,000
LI NE ST W IN G
LI NE ST W IN G
OPEN DAILY - LOCATED IN THE KOOKABURRA LODGE T: 250 578 8222 TF: 1 800 663 2838 E: info@sunpeaksrealty.com