SPIN Volume 14 Issue 1 by Sun Peaks Independent News

FIRST NATIONS TEAM PREPARES TO COMPETE PAGE 17

RUN RENAMED AFTER SUN PEAKS FOUNDER PAGE 4

JANUARY 22—24

Heavy snow, mild

JANUARY 25—31

Snow showers, sunny, cold

FEBRUARY 1—2 Sunny, cold

FEBRUARY 3—9 Snow showers, mild

FEBRUARY 10—11 Sunny

FEBRUARY 12—18 Snow showers, mild

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 1

ONE FOR THE books by SUN PEAKS NEWS

he snow has continued to fall in Western Canada, prompting many to cross their fingers in hopes of continued good news, including Tourism Sun Peaks’ president Christopher Nicolson.

“There are a whole variety of factors that are helping us,” Nicolson said. “I would say the year, right now, has

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JANUARY 22 — FEBRUARY 18

very good potential to be a record year.” At publication time Sun Peaks had around a 20 per cent higher alpine base than this time last year. Combined with stellar weather conditions the resort is attracting increased visitors from almost every established market. Immediately following what many considered a poor 2014-15 winter season, the snow and resort visitation have been especially welcomed throughout the province. “This year to date we’re at an all-time high of over 18,000 (room nights), which represents about an 11 per cent increase over last year,” Nicolson said, noting December 2015 numbers were up

about six per cent from 2014. The highest year on record was 2007-08 at around 70,000 total room nights. Nicolson said if average snow conditions persist Sun Peaks could exceed those numbers. Room nights are generally an indication of overall

“I would say the year, right now, has very good potential to be a record year.”

resort business and in this case, manager of Vertical Café, Meghan Kolodka, said they seem to be an

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WESTERN CANADIAN RESORTS ON WAY TO BREAKING RECORDS

accurate reflection. “It’s noticeably much busier than last year,” she said. “It’s been steady through our doors since Dec. 22.” According to Kolodka that sentiment is echoed from most local business owners she’s spoken with. And Sun Peaks isn’t the only ski area enjoying the powder and resulting revenue. “What all the snow has done is stimulate the marketplace. Most resorts within Western Canada have had a very good Christmas. It’s fantastic to see the North Shore mountains doing so well, as well as the Seattle mountains. It has a stimulating impact. It piques interest in going further away, perhaps for a week, at resorts

such as Sun Peaks. There’s a direct correlation.” According to an early January press release from the Canada West Ski Area Association (CWSAA), many ski areas are enjoying big business this year due to early openings and record snowfalls. Red Mountain Resort reported the best December for both revenue and skier visits in its entire 67 year history. Whistler Blackcomb said they enjoyed their highest year-to-date visitation in their history over the Christmas period. ”It has been a really great start to the year, both in terms of snowfall and skier numbers,” said Cynthia Thomas,

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

....Continued on Page 2

sunpeaksnews.com

....Continued from Cover

marketing and communications manager for CWSAA, “We don’t get official skier numbers until the close of the season so we can’t report the exact numbers yet, but resort by resort, anecdotally, they are all reporting great increases.” Thomas went on to say that while a great overall season was important for the industry, a strong start was especially critical. “Many people were delaying their bookings because of

fears from last season. However as soon as we started receiving really great snow, even back in early November and our ski areas started to open, some of them early, it really made people overcome those fears and get booking. Many ski areas are now reporting they are way ahead in their bookings.” In addition to driving overnight stays, Thomas said the snow also affects season pass sale trends, which many of their smaller ski areas heavily rely on. “We do find that after a

good year, the early pass sales are good for the following year. And after a poor year, they are usually slow to start. So we did see a lot of mountains doing specials and season pass extensions to let people experience that snow was coming and get their confidence up that there would be a good snow year.” The low Canadian dollar is also having a huge effect on the ski industry. “The U.S. market has been rebuilding over the last two to three years and, not only

does our low dollar attract U.S. skiers north, it keeps Canadians at home,” Nicolson said. “We saw record numbers of people from Ontario staying in Canada and coming to Sun Peaks for both ski team visits, as well as leisure. And, instead of going south for sun holidays, some decisions are made to stay in Canada.” According to CWSAA, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (which owns Fernie, Kicking Horse, and Kimberley ski resorts) reported U.S. business to their resorts was

up 200 per cent over last year. Racking up an additional 50,000 room nights before season’s end to break the record might seem like a tall task, but with three big months to go including several upcoming U.S. and regional holiday periods and large events, Nicolson said it could be possible. Regardless of whether the official record is broken, the strong start to the season has had a motivating effect on ski tourism in general.

The road to finalizing the budget

KEY DATES

2016 BUDGET TO BE COMPLETED IN MAY by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

Feb. 1 | BUDGET WORKSHOP

eetings will begin in February, but it will take over four months into this year to finalize the municipal budget. Sun Peaks’ council approved a tentative budget in December, but they will need to await regional and provincial tax rates before finalizing the numbers. The municipality will have a budget workshop on Feb. 1 to finalize a tentative budget, which Mayor Al Raine said will be about 90 per cent of what was approved in December. At that time council will also look back at the 2015 operations,

which Raine said is likely to see a surplus of under $100,000. A compilation of projects completed under budget and others that were not done contributed to the excess dollars, according to chief administrative ofﬁcer Rob Bremner. The funds will be put into the operating surplus reserve. The 2016 budget will then be brought back to council on Feb. 15 for preliminary approval. A public presentation of the tentative budget will be held on March 12 to inform members of the community and receive feedback. Information on the budget will also be available to

the public ahead of the meeting on the municipality’s website. “At that meeting we will walk people through the budget and people will be able to question why we are spending money here and why we’re spending money here or whatever questions they may have,” Raine said. The financial plan bylaws will be read for a first and second time at the council meeting on April 18 and for a third time on May 2 before the final adoption on May 9. The municipality will have to await tax requisition for funding that does not get directly fun-

neled back into the community but instead pays for services residents use such as hospital, police and education. “I’ve already seen preliminary estimates for the regional district budgets and theirs look like if anything for Sun Peaks, taxation rates could be down a little bit,” Raine said. “What we don’t know is school and we don’t know policing.” “If the province were to increase policing costs by ﬁve per cent, we don’t know that. That’s why it waits until then. To me, it’s not the most efﬁcient process, but that’s the one we have.”

“Toughest” leak shuts off water for 36 hours EAST VILLAGE AFFECTED ON ONE OF THE BUSIEST DAYS OF THE YEAR by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

PHOTO: TWITTER: @RACINJASONWHITE

FROZEN DIGGING: Crews had to dig more than three metres deep to get to the ruptured water main. 2

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broken water main left many residents and visitors in Sun Peaks without running water for approximately 36 hours on Dec. 26 and 27. Sun Peaks Utilities received a call at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 26 reporting water pooling at the intersection of Sun Peaks Road., Village Way and Valley Drive. As a result, water service was shut off to two subdivisions and seven townhouse complexes to allow crews to complete repairs. The affected properties were Trails Edge, McGillivray Townhomes, Stones Throw, Settler’s Crossing, Woodhaven, Crystal Forest, Trappers Landing, Bridgegate, Bella Vista and Lookout Ridge Estates.

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

Crews had to first dig through approximately 18 inches of frozen ground and it took the majority of the day Saturday to have the hole exposed. Crews also had to deal with two days of heavy snowfall and traffic at one of the busiest intersections in Sun Peaks. “The crew did an amazing job because it was extremely difficult, it was down over three metres,” said Peter Nixon, manager of real estate for Sun Peaks Resort LLP. “It is probably one of the deepest water mains we have in the resort.” Three water trucks were brought in from Kamloops to supply emergency water to the affected properties, which Nixon estimated accounts for 20 per cent of development in the resort. Trucks were also

delayed due to heavy snow on regional highways. “They (guests) had enough to ﬂush the toilets and maybe do some dishes, but it wasn’t enough for showers because there wasn’t the pressure,” Nixon said. Crews continued to work throughout the day Sunday and running water was restored by approximately 7:30 p.m. A cross section of pipe that was put in place in the late 1990s had shifted over time, which caused the leak and is an occasional but normal occurrence, according to Nixon. Nixon said crews received a great response from the community. People driving by passed coffees through their car windows and pizzas were delivered to those working on

the broken main. “It was really nice to see the community come together on it because it was probably the toughest water leak we’ve had to deal with from what I’ve experienced here,” he said. “Just where it was located, timing and everything it was the toughest.” A precautionary boil water advisory was put in place for the affected properties, but was lifted in the evening of Dec. 28 once test results conﬁrmed water was not contaminated as a result of the main break. The road was temporarily repaired and will be safe to drive on for the remainder of winter, according to Nixon. A complete repair will be done in the springtime once the ground softens. Sun Peaks Utilities is responsible for full cost of the repair.

View from 2217 Sunburst Drive, Sun Peaks, BC

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 19

sunpeaksnews.com

Sun Peaks above average in Thompson tax assessments

SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS INC. PO Box 1043 Sun Peaks BC V0E 5N0

Phone: 250•578•0276

ONE LOCAL PROPERTY IN TOP 100 VALUED PROPERTIES

For comments, questions, concerns email: editor@sunpeaksnews.com Email your classifieds or ads to: editor@sunpeaksnews.com

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www.sunpeaksnews.com @sunpeaksnews /sunpeaksnews sunpeaksnews @sunpeaksnews

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OUR TEAM EDITOR & PUBLISHER Brandi Schier

MAKING THE LIST: One Sun Peaks property was featured in the Thompson region’s top 100 valued homes this year.

brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

by SUN PEAKS NEWS

GRAPHIC ARTIST Jen Schier

jen@sunpeaksnews.com

REPORTER Jamie Shinkewski jamie@sunpeaksnews.com

WRITERS Jean Strong Carmen Ruiz Julia Thrift

CONTRIBUTORS Mel Rothenburger

he New Year saw Sun Peaks and other Thompson area property owners receive their property assessment notices which reflect market value as of July 1, 2015. Typically, Sun Peaks’ home owners saw a change in value ranging from minus five per cent to an increase of 15 per cent, with the average assessment increasing from $689,000 to $726,000.

While the vast number of the top valued residential properties are located in Kelowna, Sun Peaks’ 4141 Douglas Court once again made the Thompson area’s list coming in at number 93 valued at $3,661,000. “The majority of residential home owners within the (Thompson) area can expect a modest change in value, compared to last year’s assessment,” said Graham Held, deputy assessor with BC Assessment.

Kamloops home owners typically saw zero change to plus five per cent. Residential homes, residential strata units, commercial and light commercial space across the region saw typical changes of minus five per cent to plus 10 per cent. The Thompson area’s total assessments increased from $23.59 billion in 2015 to $24.14 billion this year. A total of almost $308 million of the Thompson area’s updated assessments is from new construction, subdivisions and rezoning of properties. The Thompson portion of BC Assessment’s region includes Kamloops, Barriere, Clearwater, Merritt, Ashcroft, Cache Creek, Chase, Clinton, Lytton, Logan Lake, Sun Peaks and the rural areas surrounding these communities. Property owners can now use a newly-enhanced website at bcassessment.ca that includes additional details on 2016 assessments, property information and trends, such

as lists of 2016’s top valuable residential properties across the province. The website also provides self-service access to the free online e-valueBC service that allows anyone to search, check and compare 2016 property assessments anywhere in the province. “Property owners can find a lot of information on our website including answers to many assessment-related questions, but those who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2015 or see incorrect information on their notice, should contact BC Assessment as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Held. “If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by Feb. 1, for an independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” he added.

Bodie Shandro

Ridge renamed to honour Sun Peaks’ legend

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.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

FOUR GENERATIONS STRONG: Munro’s family and decendants pose with SPR representatives at the top of Munro Ridge.

ON THE

COVER

Photo by Kelly Funk. Supplied by Canada West Ski Area Association

by JEAN STRONG

idge run, connecting skiers to the Burfield chair, will now officially be known as Munro Ridge. It was renamed in December 2015, after the passing of one of Sun Peaks’ founders, Donald Munro. “It was kind of overdue from my perspective,” said Darcy Alexander, general manager of

Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR). “There’s three main founders, Don Whyte, Gil Marini, and Don Munro. We have runs named for the other two. It’s not something we do all the time and it’s not something we do lightly.” Alexander also said he understood it to be one of Munro’s favourite runs and that it may have originally been Munro Ridge, but shortened to Ridge over time.

After growing up in Kamloops and graduating from Kamloops Secondary School, Munro left the area for university before returning to work and raise his family. Munro was one of 12 men who planned and funded the original Burfield chair which was completed in 1961. He also served as the first president of the Tod Mountain ski area, taking the inaugural ride on the two-person lift. For a long time after that first ride, he taught his children and grandchildren to ski on the mountain while watching the resort grow. His daughter, Sandi Munro, was one of those children and was present with her mother and four generations of Munros on Jan. 1, 2016 when they celebrated at the resort.

“The Munro family is humbled and delighted that Sun Peaks has renamed Ridge run to Munro Ridge to honour Dad’s contribution,” she said. “Dad laid out many of the original runs and Ridge, in combination with Headwalls, was his favourite.” “We can’t thank Sun Peaks enough!” Munro passed away at the age of 90 in 2013 and was celebrated as key to the development of Sun Peaks and as a valued member of both the mountain’s and Kamloops’ communities. At the time, SPR published a statement describing Munro as “a bright spark and visionary to what has become a leading mountain resort and home to many”.

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 4

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

opinion PAGE Your wine festival survival guide

LETTER TO THE

BECAUSE IT’S NOT MY FIRST RODEO

FORBIDDING DOGS IN THE VILLAGE

BRANDI SCHIER PUBLISHER’S NOTE brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

elcome to one of my favourite times of the season. Over the last few years I’ve learned a lot during Sun Peaks’ winter wine festivals, such as new kinds of wine I like, many interesting vineyard facts and diverse perspectives on the B.C. wine industry. I’m always open to learning new things, but that’s probably as far as I’ll take my wine education. And while you don’t need a lot of sommelier-type knowledge to enjoy the events, here are a few insider tips I’d like to share. First of all, preparation is key. There’s nothing worse than seeing your friends getting ready for the Progressive or Taste of Sun Peaks while you’re scrambling on social media looking for extra tickets. Generally, tickets are available in early October

so get on it! Also, if you’re only here for a season it’s a great idea to splurge a little and take in one or two events. No doubt it will be a great addition to your B.C. experience. The second elements are pace and balance. If you’re a local or are planning to be around for all ten days just make sure to take it easy. Part of the magic of the festival is being able to get out on the mountain in between events and burn away all those extra calories, which can add up. (Case in point —the brunches. They’re amazing and also slightly dangerous.) Also, know your surroundings. While many wine festivals may carry an air of pretention and require a strict dress code, like most things at Sun Peaks, most of the events are pretty casual. The beneﬁt of this is a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where you can actually learn quite a bit without even trying. Also, some of events are outside, including the Progres-

sive. Be sure to wear grippy, warm shoes and to rock a few easy-to-remove-layers. To take full advantage of the festival be open to new things. Even if you prefer white over red, don’t enjoy sparkling wine or hated Chardonnay the last time you tried it, give everything a shot. With literally hundreds of wines from over 30 wineries available over the 10 days, I guarantee you’ll ﬁnd something that will surprise and delight you. There are some game changers out there! Respect is also essential – respect of the power of the vino and respect the rest of the village who probably aren’t six or more tastings deep at 11 p.m. As always, plan a safe way home if you’re planning on imbibing. And overall, just try and keep it together as nobody likes to be that person. Although we probably won’t judge you too harshly if you are. See our wine coverage on pg. 13.

Time to think about options for expansion JAMIE SHINKEWSKI jamie@sunpeaksnews.com

Born and raised in Kamloops, Jamie grew up skiing Sun Peaks before heading east to earn his Bacherlor’s of Journalism from Carleton University. Before joining the SPIN team, he was a reporter for the Ottawa Sportspage and KamloopsBCNow.

here’s a lot of excitement buzzing around Sun Peaks this season. The race centre has never been busier, the freestyle club earned multiple medals at their ﬁrst competition and Sun Peaks’ ﬁrst World Cup ski cross race took place in December. Now, discussions have begun for which facilities to expand next. Expanding the race centre likely comes at the top of the priority list, but the increased success of one season doesn’t necessarily justify the increased cost of snowmaking for more alpine race training lanes. However, the centre is beginning to attract clubs from across Canada, as well as more high performance racers, and according to sports director Vincent Lafontaine, many of

these teams have expressed interest in returning. Race lanes open on Sundance once snow guns are available, but another mentioned option is to open the lower section of Cariboo for racers. It would keep everything in close proximity and still allow teams to use the Elevation chair, but the snowmaking capacity would need to be increased. The success of the freestyle club is also going to create a demand for expansion. The club only features seven skiers but growth is imminent and the development of a mogul course is a must. It will be hard for a young club to compete with nearby established programs such as Silver Star and Whistler without being able to train for all three disciplines. Five team members competed in Apex at the beginning of January and they each competed in moguls despite having no prior training. There is room at the bottom of current mogul runs such at 5th Avenue or Intimidator, but it will require time and manpower to create a safe training area.

Another course that’s in ongoing discussion for expansion is ski cross. The national NextGen development ski cross team created a temporary course on OSV for the World Cup race, but to make Sun Peaks an annual stop it will require a permanent facility. Willy Raine, the athletic director for Canada Ski Cross, wants to see public ski cross courses across Canada. Anyone could ski such a course and it could be easily changed into a high level track for races. The Tk’emlups te Secwepemc First Nations Snowboard Team could also make good use of the permanent track. Six or seven members of this year’s team will compete in boardercross, but have no course to train on. A low grade slope is required for this course and Raine mentioned during his visit that there are a lot of options with viable terrain on the Sundance chair lift. Feasibility, cost and public demand will likely play important factors in determining which expansion the ski hill sees ﬁrst.

editor

“My partner and I are currently visiting Sun Peaks for the first time. We love it. Unfortunately, the dog excrement in the snow seriously distracts from the beauty of this otherwise charming setting. I have been skiing for over 50 years, in many different countries and I have never seen such a disgusting mess. This certainly doesn’t make a good impression on local tourists and overseas visitors. I’m sure it can be resolved by allocating specific areas for dogs’ recreation, and forbidding dogs within the village. Please find attached photos I took this morning while walking in the village, I stopped taking (many) more when my fingers froze.” Yours faithfully, Elie Grouchko Editor’s note – This email was accompanied by 36 photos. How thoughtful.

FROM

sunpeaksnews.com

RE: WINTER POLICING IN FULL SWING “How many drunks were taken to the drunk tank, because it’s pretty well known that there is lots of DUI going on up here? I guess with the constant warnings on the local Facebook site that the police are in town helps eliminate that trip to the tank. Huh, thought was illegal as well but that seems it doesn’t apply either?” - Greg Norman

CRIME BUSY DECEMBER FOR POLICE IN SUN PEAKS The Tk’emplups Rural detachment responded to 39 calls to Sun Peaks in December and noted an increase in disturbances at hotels this year, mainly the result of intoxicated individuals. Several people involved were arrested and transported to Kamloops City RCMP cells. In all instances, hotel management tried to calm individuals before resorting to calling police. Six road checks were conducted in December with no impaired drivers apprehended. Up to the ﬁrst two weeks of January two individuals had their drivers licenses suspended for 90 days under the Immediate Roadside Prohibition program after roadside tests. New Year’s Eve saw 15 investigations, the majority of which were minor in nature, including check stops, open liquor and intoxicated individuals and resulted in one arrest.

On December 26th we had a water main break that affected service to many of our customers east of Sundance Drive. We would like to thank our customers and guests for their patience and understanding throughout this most inconvenient event. As the situation unfolded we kept current information posted on our website www.sunpeaksutilities.com. Please remember that you can always check the website for the latest information from Sun Peaks Utilities. Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

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Location chosen for health centre FUNDRAISING FOR OPERATIONAL COST TO BEGIN by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

location has been chosen and the design is being ﬁnalized for the construction of the new health centre. The centre will be built between Bento’s Day Lodge and the Sun Peaks Alpine Club building accessed by Parking Lot 2, and is on schedule to be open in December 2016. The Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) is in contact with local medical professionals and the Interior Health Authority to ﬁnalize a layout for the new facility. “It would include an area where accidents from the

mountain would come. It would include a doctor’s ofﬁce with examining rooms, so that would be for a family doctor practice,” said Mayor Al Raine. “It would be a little closer to the village and a little easier to have ski access into. You want to be able to bring the ski accidents straight in off the slope.” The basement of the facility will house the ski patrol headquarters, and the municipality hopes to attract a full-time physician to Sun Peaks to extend the hours to six hours per day. Raine said he hopes to continue the partnership with the current medical volunteers

from Kamloops to be able to have the clinic open during the full-time doctor’s days off. “We’ve had tremendous support from the medical community in Kamloops to just get the few hours a day every day all winter long,” Raine said. “We’d have to continue some kind of volunteer program to make sure we have the hours covered.” “Our hope is we can get a combination of a full time doctor along with a combination of what we have right now with the volunteer medical team from Kamloops who come up and help.” Construction is expected to begin next summer and the

facility will cost approximately $1.2 million to build, the funds for which have already been set aside. The next steps will be to come up with funding for equipment and the cost to operate the new medical facility. “Any of the equipment you buy is unbelievably expensive,” Raine said. “My hope is as soon as we commit to the construction of the building that we can get an active group going in the community to raise the funds to equip this facility.” A recent study indicated running the facility will create a deﬁcit between $75,000 and $90,000 for SPMRM in the ﬁrst few years, according to Raine.

WESTSYDE YDE SERVICE VICE 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

TOURISM SUN PEAKS

Member Update Good snow conditions has stimulated skier interest in local and drive markets. Longer haul international markets that traditionally book further in advance have been positively impacted by increased brand awareness, exchange rates, and consumer conﬁdence. Reports indicate Sun Peaks’ long haul booking through travel trade is 12% above last year (as of December 31, 2015). Ongoing agent training, effective cooperative marketing programs, and familiarization tours are among the tactics used to enhance the productivity of these key partners. Twenty one familiarization tour guests (travel agents, tour operators, and industry personnel) from Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and USA will visit Sun Peaks in January. The USA FAM tour promoted Sun Peaks as a venue for meetings, small conventions, and incentive travel groups. The Tourism Sun Peaks winter advertising campaign now shifts to Spring Break messaging to stimulate March bookings. The favourable exchange rate will be featured in US markets. TSP and resort partners hosted two highly qualiﬁed media groups in January during the Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival. Included in the group was Associated Press staff writer Charmaine Noronha. Charmaine was on assignment producing three articles for the Toronto Star’s brand new Mobile application, “Star Touch”. Sun Peaks Central Reservations recently launched new responsive consumer technology on www. SunPeaksResort.com. Guests can more easily view accommodation packages through all devices, such as mobile, tablet, and desktop. This will improve the ease of booking online. On January 15, the new ‘Sun Peaks Wine Crawl’ kicked off the 18th Annual Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival. The 10-day festival now includes 2,016 tickets over 21 events, an increase of over 400 tickets from 2015. Tourism Sun Peaks is pleased to welcome Jennifer Lestander as its new Destination Marketing Manager. The organisation wishes to salute outgoing manager Christina Antoniak for her exemplary eight years of service to TSP and its members.

Call 250.578.5380 or visit www.SunPeaksResort.com/Tourism

sunpeaksnews.com

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 6:30 PM Monday February 1, 2016 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 0060, 0062 and 0063.

What are Zoning Amendment Bylaws 0060, 0062 and 0063? They are a change to Zoning Bylaw No. 1400 to rezone lands at 2443 Fairways Drive, 4124 Sundance Drive and 2544 Mountain View 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). 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 29th day of January 2016. 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 January 13, 2016 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

Good start to race season FOUR ALPINE RACERS QUALIFY FOR BC WINTER GAMES by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

our racers from the Sun Peaks Alpine Club (SPAC) have qualified for the upcoming BC Winter Games following the first race of the season. U14 racers Clayton Dent, Rio Shatzko, Brynn Applegath and Noa Hooton will compete at Apex Mountain near Penticton from Feb. 25 to 28. In total, 10 boys and 10 girls from the Okanagan qualified

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WE’RE OPEN DAILY For all your grocery needs See you at the Bluebird Market

Open 8 am to 9 pm daily Located on the Ground Floor of the Residences at Sun Peaks Grand

Phone: 250-578-2414

for the Games at the season’s opening Teck Zone Race held at the Nancy Greene International Race Centre on Jan. 16 and 17. Danielle Cowburn, the U12 coach for SPAC, will serve as the Okanagan zone coach at the Winter Games. “It’s fun because it only happens every two years so it’s not something that’s a part of our normal schedule and it also happens at a time when there’s no other races going on,” said SPAC head coach Montana Molyneux. The first zone race of the season was an overall success for the local racers. Thirty-one SPAC racers took to the two courses set up on OSV run, and the home club won 20 medals over the weekend. “With the first race of the season it’s always used to set a benchmark to compare where you are with all the other athletes in the province and in the zone,” Molyneux said. “I think a lot of them got some of the nerves out of the way for the first race and they were all excited to actually compete because we’ve been preparing

since we opened in preseason (Nov. 9). It’s a lot of build up to the first race of the season happening two months later.” The zone race marked the second straight weekend of Sun Peaks hosting a Teck event. The provincial Teck Open Race was held on OSV from Jan. 8 to 10 and featured nine U16 SPAC racers. Liam Applegath and Emily Whitecross recorded top 10 finishes in their first race on the provincial circuit, and overall SPAC racers had 11 top 20 finishes. “It’s a good result for a first year for sure to be in the top 10 in the province knowing you have a whole other year of development to happen.” A complete list of results for both races is available online at www.bcalpine.com/calendar. “Running two races in a row is a pretty stressful endeavour but we had an amazing group of parents and I know that community members came out to help,” Molyneux said. “I think we might’ve ran one of the best races in the province.”

NEWS DECISION ON GRANTS EXPECTED IN EARLY 2016 The Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) is awaiting the results of several grant applications for upcoming projects. The municipality has received one grant and is awaiting word on a second for programs tailored to recreation for seniors in Sun Peaks. The municipality has confirmed $1,000 from the Age Friendly Community Recognition Grant and is awaiting confirmation on a $10,000 grant from the New Horizon’s for Seniors Program. The grants would be used for improving maps and signs for ability levels of trails, as well as building small exercise stations along walking trails. “Grants for recreation purposes and those kind of things are important because most people are here for lifestyle. Unless we can offer that lifestyle it can be more and more difficult to find people who want to live in Sun Peaks,” said Mayor Al Raine. SPMRM is also awaiting a $9,000 grant from the Union of B.C. Municipalities for

asset management. The grant would cover approximately half of the cost of putting together a financial plan for the maintenance of the municipality’s assets. “Even though we’re a young community and we don’t have that many assets we still need to have an idea of how we’re paying for them and how we’re replacing them going into the future,” said chief administrative officer Rob Bremner. The municipality also applied for a Strategic Wildfire Prevention Grant to continue clearing fuel from the forests surrounding Sun Peaks. Raine estimates between $600,000 and $700,000 has been spent over the past 15 years to help guard the community in case of a wildfire threat. SPMRM has also applied for a $4 million grant from the Gas Tax Strategic Priorities Fund, which would be used to build a roof over the new outdoor rink once it is built. The municipality expects to hear from each application in early 2016.

Third round of winter films GREEN ART FESTIVAL TO INCLUDE LOCAL TALENT by JULIA THRIFT

ver three days The Green Art Festival Association is planning to screen three fulllength adventure, nature and art related documentary films in the first Icemaker Festival from Feb. 17 to 20. Like the organization’s December film event, it will take place at 8 p.m. at the M Room in Morrisey’s Pub on a 20-foot screen in HD and surround sound. Admission is $10 with advance tickets available at www.greenartfestival.org. To date, the confirmed films are Meru, Painted Land: In Search of the Group of Seven and Almost Ablaze. Meru has received worldwide praise as the best climbing film ever made. The film showcases three climbers as they scale the Shark’s Fin on Mount Meru in Tanzania. Painted Land: In Search of the Group of Seven is a combination of mystery, his-

tory and adventure. The film speaks of nature’s way of inspiring artists and showcases paintings and the locations on which they are based. Awarded 2014 Film of the Year from the International Freeski Film Festival, Almost Ablaze is a cinematic masterpiece featuring some of the greatest riders in the world. Teton Gravity Research pulls the viewer into the experience of the heart dropping lines. New for this round, before every feature film the festival plans to show short films produced by local talent. Lucky Nugget, a short film crested by Keenan Kovacs, will play before Meru. Festival organizer Dasha Novak said she sees this opportunity as a new way of bringing the ideals and views of The Green Art Festival Association into a different perspective while giving locals an opportunity for their work to be shown on a big screen. Novak recommended

people purchase tickets beforehand from at the festival’s website, even though there may be tickets available at the door.

SHOWINGS Feb. 17 | ALMOST ABLAZE AND ART EXHIBITION Feb. 18 | PAINTED LANDSCAPES AND ART EXHIBITION Feb. 20 | LUCKY NUGGET, MERU AND ART EXHIBITION

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

sunpeaksnews.com

GETout there A day in the life of the snow reporter ACCURATE SNOW INFO CRUCICAL FOR RESORT SUCCESS PHOTO SUBMITTED

IS THIS HOW SNOW REPORTING IS DONE?: Reporter, Carmen Ruiz, takes a shot at “measuring snow” early in the morning.

by CARMEN RUIZ WITH SAM EGAN

art of your daily ski routine might be to tune into the community TV channel, look at the grooming report or log onto the resort website to learn the conditions for the day. All of this is helpful information, but have you ever wondered where it comes from? It takes a team of people,

including a dedicated snow reporter, to make it happen. And according to the resort, the accuracy and consistency of each day’s snow report is very important to the overall guest experience. “With so much variability in weather patterns over the past few winters, the importance of reporting accurate snow and weather conditions has grown significantly,” said Sam

Egan, marketing manager for Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR). “Conditions can change very quickly and the seasonality has been much harder to predict. At the end of the day, it’s really all about the skiing, and managing expectations of conditions can play a huge part in the experience our guests find on the mountain.” The snow reporter may only work a few hours a day, but it’s a process filled with tight deadlines and coordination with several departments ranging from marketing to slopes and grooming, to information technology (IT). The morning begins at 5:30 a.m. The snow reporter is the first to walk into the Burfield administration building. The head groomer, who is still out on the mountain, radios in which runs have been groomed overnight. The local radio station is then called to record the conditions. It’s generally a one-time shot and the reporter tries their best at sounding enthusiastic at

5:45 a.m. Next, the reporter logs into a web-based telemetry system which collects comprehensive data from around the resort such as snowfall, temperature, snowpack, and relative humidity. The system tracks this data over time so everyone involved is able to observe trends and use algorithms to automatically record snowfall as it accumulates. The system is managed and maintained by the IT and electrical departments and is staggeringly complex, with snowfall monitored and recorded by an ultrasonic probe at both mid-mountain and near Top of the World. This system has evolved immensely over the years and is a far cry from the days of sticking a ruler in the snow and calling it a day. Providing there are no hiccups in the data, it’s delivered automatically to Sun Peaks’ website in real-time. In 2011, the resort took it a step further and began auto-updating hourly snowfall to the website which

was cutting edge for the industry. But, as we all know, technology can be tricky and when snowfall telemetry measurements seem inaccurate, the reporter is able override the system and manually calculate the correct number by measuring snowfall activity. In addition, the patrol department traditionally measures plots by hand daily to monitor snowpack and keep the automated system calibrated. The grooming report is then distributed as far as Vancouver. By 8 a.m. the reporter must update the alpine and Nordic online trails, launch the daily report online, update the community TV channels, write social media postings, and update various snow reporting websites and local news stations. Catching the first chair of the day to check accuracy isn’t in the official job description, but it’s a bonus to wrapping your work day at 8 a.m.

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

Winter on two wheels SEGWAY TOURS NOW OFFERED ON SNOW PHOTO: ALPINE IMAGES

SUN PEAKS ON A SEGWAY: The tours offer a new perspective of winter on the mountain.

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

he first winter Segway tours at a mountain resort in Canada are now being offered in Sun Peaks. Alpine Explorers began offering snow tours

through the village trail system on Jan. 16. The Segway tours have been running in Sun Peaks for the past two summers, and with new winterized tires the machines are safe to hit the snow. “We’ve had countless people

ask ‘what about the winter?’ and we’ve always said ‘oh no that’s crazy.’ When we sat down and thought about it and realized that potentially we’re missing something here not trying them in the wintertime,” said owner Gemma Harris. Tours will run twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. and registration is available at Alpine Images Gallery or the Sun Peaks Adventure Centre. Segway riders must be over 14 years old, be between 100 and 265 pounds, and able to stand during the entire tour. “The recommendation is that you dress warm, you wear your ski pants, you wear your gloves, bring your helmet if you have one (if not we’ll provide it) and go out and have some fun on the Segways,” Harris said. Their winterized Segways are modelled after similar companies in Europe that use the machines on valley and village trails in the snow. The Segways

won’t be using any of the Nordic or alpine trails and won’t climb as high up the mountain as they do in the summer because of shorter battery life in cold weather. “We’ll be moving probably at a bit of a slower pace mainly because of the way that the cold affects the batteries but aside from that it’s going to be really fun,” Harris said. “It’s going to be a slightly different product than what we offer in the summertime. We’re going to be steering clear of any of the alpine trails or the cross country trails just because obviously this time of year has more traffic than we would see in the summertime.” The learning curve on a Segway is quick. Harris said anyone can learn, and it’s especially easy for skiers and snowboarders. “The learning curve on the Segway is about five minutes. You first step on they feel

really strange and really weird, and then something will just click,” Harris said. “Especially if you’re a snowboarder or a skier and you have your head wrapped around balance and weight distribution. People pick it up so quickly.” The winter Segway tours will continue until mid-March as long as weather permits. PHOTO: ALPINE IMAGES

Returning teams contribute to record breaking race centre year GOOD EARLY CONDITIONS ATTRACT 40 TEAMS PHOTO: BC ALPINE FACEBOOK

RECORD NUMBER OF RACERS: The B.C. rising stars were one of 40 teams training in Sun Peaks this season.

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

record breaking number of teams practised in Sun Peaks throughout the longest training period in the history of the Nancy Greene International Race Centre this season. In addition to more teams coming for early season training camps, the training season was longer than usual and for the first time clubs returned for

a second camp. Typically the early season training ends on Dec. 18, but clubs were booked throughout December and two clubs from Ontario returned in January. “If there’s a race later on that we host they’ll come back and train a couple days and use the race centre to train before, but actually coming for another training camp it’s the first time we’ve seen that,” said Vincent

Lafontaine, sports director for Sun Peaks Resort LLP. Good early conditions in Sun Peaks combined with poor snow conditions at other mountains led to a record number of teams holding training camps in Canada’s second largest ski area. Since the race centre opened on Nov. 9, 40 teams have held a training camp at the facility, which is a big increase from 27 teams in 2014. “This year I think everything fell together in terms of conditions and a tough start in the east. That’s another big part this year Ontario and Quebec hadn’t had any snow until Christmas so they were struggling,” Lafontaine said. The race centre attracted more teams from Ontario and Quebec, as well as more high performance athletes this season. Lafontaine said the increase in teams was largely in part to word of mouth as they did not increase recruitment. “Personally, I think we have the best early season training facility in North America. I would be comfortable saying that just

because of what we’re seeing with the growth and more and more teams wanting to come here,” he said. For a period this year the race centre was at full capacity. Six lanes were opened up on the OSV and Chute runs, and some days saw as many as eight teams sharing the facility. Teams also trained on Sundance Mountain, but it was not open until well into the training schedule.

“PERSONALLY, I THINK WE HAVE THE BEST EARLY SEASON TRAINING FACILITY IN NORTH AMERICA.” “This year we were at a point for a number of days we were pretty much at full capacity,” Lafontaine said. “I think if we want to keep growing we’ll have to add training space or lanes and that means increase our snowmaking capacity.”

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

sunpeaksnews.com

ARTS ENTERTAINMENT Call for amateur submissions KAMLOOPS FESTIVALS OPEN TO ALL REGIONAL ARTISTS PHOTO SUBMITTED

CALLING ALL ARTISTS: Successful Art Exposed exhibitions from last year’s event.

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

wo arts festivals in Kamloops are calling for creative ﬁlmmakers and artists to submit their work.

The Kamloops Independent Short Shorts Film Festival (KISS) and the Kamloops Arts Council’s Art Exposed are asking for submissions in February ahead of the festivals in March. They are both open to resi-

dents in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD), including Sun Peaks. The KISS Film Festival is asking local filmmakers to submit a film of five minutes or less before Feb. 26. Selected films will be screened on March 6 at the Paramount Theatre as part of the Kamloops Film Festival. “It’s a way of giving back to local filmmakers. It’s a good way to showcase your work. There’s nothing like watching your film on a large screen in front of an audience,” said Jon Fulton, chair of the KISS Film Festival. “We wanted to give people that wouldn’t have an opportunity to screen in an actual theatre that opportunity and really celebrate that local spirit.” Prizes will be awarded for the best short films, as well as a youth award and audience

choice. Films can be any style or genre, but Fulton said they have never screened a skiing or snowboarding film. “We’ve had documentaries, quirky horror films, stunt films, dramatic films, a lot of really good artistic experimental films, protest films, the whole gamut. We will accept anything,” Fulton said. Digital copies of the films can be dropped off at Moviemart in downtown Kamloops along with the $10 entry fee. The competition is open to all local filmmakers who were not paid to create their short. More information is available online at kamloopsfilmfest.ca/kiss. Art Exposed is also calling for residents of the TNRD to submit their artwork. Registration for the open exhibition is Feb. 13, but artwork is not required to be submitted until the

beginning of March. The exhibition runs from March 11 to 19 at the Old Courthouse in downtown Kamloops and is open to 2D and 3D art in any medium. Artists can submit two pieces and the two pieces combined must not be more than 16 square feet. “What’s unique about this show is we want to help people get their stuff out there,” said Kathy Sinclair, executive director of the Kamloops Arts Council. “A lot of the time it’s a big step to share your work with people.” Prizes will be awarded in four categories, including emerging and established artist. Art Exposed featured more than 200 local art pieces in 2015. Artists can register at kamloopsart.ca. “It’s a really awesome chance to sell your artwork too, not just to exhibit it,” Sinclair added.

New Art Zone events in 2016 LOCAL ORGANIZATION SEEKING PARTICIPATION FILE PHOTO

LOOKING FORWARD: Art Zone is looking ahead to future events such as the above pictured with Lorel Sternig.

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

he non-proﬁt arts council in Sun Peaks is planning three events for 2016 that

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will encourage community members to get involved in the local arts scene and be an opportunity to recruit new members. The ﬁrst event will be an

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 19

“WE DECIDED MAYBE THIS YEAR NEEDS TO BE A YEAR OF GROWTH AND WE NEED TO GROW THE MEMBERSHIP AND MAKE IT MORE OPEN FOR THE COMMUNITY.” interactive exhibition during President’s Week where local artists are encouraged to display their work and include an interactive component. The event will take place on either Feb. 19 or 20 at the Sun Peaks Grand. “(The artists) get some exposure and it might be more interesting for people to come in and do something like a little craft or a little painting,” said Sun Peaks Art Zone board member Liz Derksen. The Art Zone is also planning

an evening of art appreciation in March and a workshop with photorealism artist Terry Isaac next summer. “We decided maybe this year needs to be a year of growth and we need to grow the membership and make it more open for the community,” Derksen said. Last year the Art Zone had around 45 members, but fewer than 30 people have renewed their membership in 2016. “I think a lot of people who are permanent residents here might not be aware that there are artists that live here or people that are wanting this kind of service provided,” Derksen said. “It’s not an artist collective. It’s people who are interested in art and people who want to try art. You absolutely don’t have to be an artist and you aren’t

forced to do art when you come to a meeting.” Interested members can register online at artzonesunpeaks. com which costs $24 annually. The Art Zone is also working towards ﬁnding a permanent facility to call home. The Sun Peaks Grand has offered the group a space for events, but Derksen said they eventually want their own location where they can host weekly workshops and smaller-scale events. “When we plan an event we have to think about where we are going to hold it and how much it is going to cost, so the fact the Grand is willing to help us out with this is huge,” Derksen said. “One of the biggest things we’d like is to have a home, a permanent place.”

ARTS ENTERTAINMENT PHOTO: SUN PEAKS NEWS

EVENT LISTINGS FRIDAY — SUNDAY

other and against the clock, for some friendly family competition between, and amongst, families.

JANUARY 22 — JANUARY 24

18TH ANNUAL SUN PEAKS WINTER OKANAGAN WINE FESTIVAL

Two of British Columbia’s finest assets – winter recreation and wine – make for an inspired pairing at the Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival. With 20 memorable events, it is a delectable experience of wine, skiing, food and riding. www.sunpeaksresort.com

SUNDAY

JANUARY 24

THE GARDEN RAIL JAM

SUN PEAKS WINE FESTIVAL: There were no losers in this showdown.

Pearls of wine wisdom by SUN PEAKS NEWS

BC Wine Shop’s Gerrit Van Staalduinen shared just a small amount of his lifetime’s worth of knowledge at one of the afternoon seminars during the 18th Annual Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival. Here’s just a few nuggets: - B.C. has approximately 10,000 acres of vineyards and will most likely max out around 12,000 in a few years. For comparative purposes Washington State has 80,000 and Australia has 3 million. - Approximately 90 per cent of B.C. wine is consumed in the province. - “Chardonnay has many faces.” - Regarding the dryness scale — “That’s wine by numbers, that’s not what wine is about. Learn your grapes and don’t worry about numbers.” - In general, the hotter the region, the higher the sugars and therefore the higher the alcohol content. - Pinot Gris could be called the most important varietal in B.C. at 1,100 acres. - Typically we serve whites too cold and reds too warm. - His answer when asked

what the best wine is? “The one that I’ve never tried.” In other words, keep an open mind. “Looking at world cultures though wine is very interesting. Some people look at culture through music or art, but I challenge you to look at it through wine.” On Pinot Noir — “It’s not always about being, the biggest, baddest, fullest red.” “I always say Merlot is a lot like shag carpet.” 2012 and 2014 are two of the best vintages B.C. has ever had. “There’s a lot to be said for value. Not always is the most expensive wine the wine you are going to like.” Merlot is a great wine to roll the dice on regarding price. If a winery is investing in telling you a story about where the grape comes from that’s a positive sign. It’s coming from a special place. Now ﬁgure out where that place is.” B.C. produces some of best Cab Franc in the world. Canada makes and produces wine in every province. There are really no bad ice wines.

Riders will compete in four divisions; Grom (12 and under), Junior (13 to 16), Women’s Open, and Men’s Open (advanced). Each division will also be broken up into a ski and snowboard category. Entrants will battle it out in a 30 minute jam with the top five advancing to the final. 250-578-5442

events@sunpeaksresort.com

SUNDAY

FEBRUARY 7

BC FAMILY DAY CELEBRATIONS

Come out and celebrate BC Family Day in style! Grab your friends and family and meet at the bottom of the Sundance chair lift, put on a penguin suit and slide down the hill on your penguin belly. Join in the dance party, get your face painted, hang out with Uncle Chris the Clown and Harry Bear, or just enjoy the party! 250-578-5442

FEBRUARY 1

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Municipal office located in the Kookaburra Lodge. www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY 3

HOCKEY DAY IN CANADA OPENING CEREMONIES

Join host Ron McLean at Sun Peaks Resort for the opening ceremonies of Scotiabank’s Hockey Day in Canada. Several NHL® stars and sports commentators will be attending the celebration, including Kamloops’ own Mark Recchi, Trevor Linden and Bryan Trottier. The opening ceremonies will include a live music performance by Shatered Blue as well as a Torchlight parade down the Sunbeam ski run led by the coveted Stanley Cup. eventsassistant@sunpeaksresort.com

SUNDAY

FEBRUARY 7

BC FAMILY FUN RACE

Everyone is encouraged to come out and enter this recreational fun-for-everyone dual slalom race on BC Family Day! Racers will compete against each

FEBRUARY 14

BLUEBIRD BANKED SLALOM

Back for its 5th year and better than ever, the Bluebird Banked Slalom promises to be one of the most entertaining events of the year for racers and spectators alike, taking advantage the naturally banked terrain of the 5 Mile’s ‘Hully Gully’. guestservices@sunpeaksresort.com

MONDAY

FEBRUARY 15

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Municipal office located in the Kookaburra Lodge. www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

MONDAY

FEBRUARY 8

WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY

50 per cent off full day alpine lift tickets for B.C. residents. Celebrate BC Family Day by bringing everyone for a day on the slopes.

ICEMAKER FILM FESTIVAL

FEBRUARY 17 – 20

BC FAMILY DAY SPECIAL

250-578-5474

MONDAY

SATURDAY

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY 11

The Green Art Festival Association presents the first annual Icemaker festival from Feb. 17 to 20. Three films will be screened in Morrisey Pub’s M Room starting at 8 p.m. each night. The feature films are Meru, Painted Land: In Search of the Group of Seven and Almost Ablaze. www.greenartsfestival.org

TNRD BOOKMOBILE

The TNRD Bookmobile visits the Bento’s Day Lodge parking lot from 3 to 4:15 p.m. Loan periods for books, large print books, audiobooks, magazines, video games, DVDs and CDs is six weeks. The Bookmobile is also wheelchair accessible. Library cards are free to all TNRD residents and cards are welcome at any TNRD branch or Bookmobile stop. bookmobile@tnrd.ca

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

FEBRUARY 13 & 14

BURTON MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

A top to bottom snowboard experience and everything in between! The Burton Mountain Festival will be storming Sun Peaks this winter and it’s bringing a full payload of product, parties and positive vibes. Try Burton’s latest gear, jam out to some après entertainment, Coors Light Throwback Challenge, women’s ride days, Riglet Parks for the kids, and great conversation with a community of riders.

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

FEBRUARY 19 & 20

TELUS NANCY GREENE ALPINE CLASSIC

A memorable weekend with proceeds going to the Sun Peaks Health Association, the RIH Foundation and Sun Peaks junior ski racing. It’s a fun team race on an easy dual course, with each racer’s best time counting towards the team total. Every team must include at least one member of each sex (i.e. at least one female and one male) to be eligible for prizes. All participants must be age 19 & over. 250-573-1941

250-578-5474

@sunpeaksnews

/sunpeaksnews

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

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CONNECTIONS Planning for a new school MUNICIPALITY SEEKS SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPPORT by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

rowing enrollment prompted Mayor Al Raine to make a presentation at the School District 73 (SD73) board of education meeting on Dec. 14 in an effort to begin the planning phase for a new school facility in Sun Peaks. Raine estimated the planning process will take two to three years, and said it’s important to start looking ahead if enrollment numbers continue to increase as the infrastructure at the current school site is limited. The school is currently located at the top of the learner’s area on Sundance Mountain. The first building was a repurposed ski school facility and several portable buildings have been added in recent years to accommodate the rising number of students. “We’re ahead of where they thought we would be after five

years in terms of enrollment,” Raine said. “That caused me a little bit of alarm because the site up there is limited. I think we’ve taxed out about what we can do on the electrical side and we’ve also taxed out the site physically.” “My concern is if there is growth like this year over the next couple of years, we’re going to be near the limits up there.” There are currently 54 students between kindergarten and grade seven, and 14 students from grades eight through 12 in Sun Peaks. A Community Education Plan prepared by former superintendent of the Revelstoke school district, Anne Cooper, had predicted the school would have 74 students this year, increasing to 99 by 2018-19. The school district has expressed support for a new school in Sun Peaks, but the biggest challenge will be financial.

“If we could only pick up a vacant school and move it to where it was needed we would be so happy,” said Denise Harper, chair of the SD73 board of education. “Sun Peaks is unique in so much that we’ve seen a sudden growth in the last few years. It’s certainly become an area that likely should have a school.” The municipality said they will work with the school district to develop different feasible options for a new facility and then present them to the community for discussion. Finding a suitable location for a new school presents a challenge. “Obviously we want to keep the ski in, ski out element so the kids can use the ski lift for recreation,” Raine said. “There are a couple of options but certainly the best option at this time would appear to be out by the East Village somewhere so they could use Morrisey.” In addition to the location,

the plans would also need to include which grades to incorporate, as well as what amenities the new facility would include. The Community Education Plan estimated a new school facility would have a capacity for 125 students, based on projected enrollment, and will likely include split-grade classrooms. “This is not a municipal decision, this is a community decision and the parents have to get involved,” Raine said. “If we get the green light from the school board saying they’re interested in looking at this, then we’ll sit down with them and see what we think the options are and get the parent group together and say ‘here are some of the options and what do you think?’” “We can’t come in and impose something, it’s got to be a made-in-Sun-Peaks decision,” Harper added. The municipality’s role, Raine said, will be that of a co-

“MY CONCERN IS IF THERE IS GROWTH LIKE THIS YEAR OVER THE NEXT COUPLE OF YEARS, WE’RE GOING TO BE NEAR THE LIMITS UP THERE.”

ordinator and, if the school is large enough, to help include a gymnasium or outdoor sports facilities. If the district is willing to build a half-sized gym, the municipality could then secure funding to upgrade it to a fullsized gym for the benefit of the entire community. “To me, school and community in small communities go hand in hand,” Raine said. “If there was an opportunity to put up whatever (money) it takes and get ourselves a gym that would be available to the community in the non-school hours then that makes really good sense.”

Young racers hit the slopes NANCY GREENE SKI LEAGUE ALL ABOUT LOVE OF SKIING PHOTO: SUN PEAKS ALPINE CLUB

RACING FOR FUN: The Nancy Greene Ski League has 106 young racers in 2016.

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

he Nancy Greene Ski League is back in full swing

the friendships between skiers will outlast racing days. “My friends that I have now in skiing were the ones I grew up racing with,” Molyneux said. “It’s a cool thing that these kids can come up every weekend and get to ski all over the resort and also work hard to achieve something that’s a little bit bigger than themselves.” The program wraps up with the Hub International Nancy Greene Ski Festival on March 19 and 20, which is expected to draw over 500 kids to Sun Peaks. The festival has the young racers compete in a variety of fun events throughout the mountain, including a race course, a moguls course, a speed trap, a big air jump and a skills course.

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

“It’s nice because you know everyone is here for the same reason: we all love skiing,” Molyneux said.

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G ar rea ga t rit as

with over 100 kids between the ages of five and 11 participating this year with the Sun Peaks Alpine Club (SPAC). The

program focuses on introducing young skiers to alpine racing with an emphasis on fun. “That’s where the love of skiing starts and we have an amazing groups of coaches with the younger age groups that are getting the kids really excited and just exposing them to everything on the hill and developing their skill so they feel confident when they start moving up into the older age groups,” said SPAC head coach Montana Molyneux. The ski league began on Jan. 3 and will finish on March 24. There are 21 coaches for the youth program this year, many of whom are former racers with the club. Not all of the young skiers will become competitive racers, but

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM

Sun Peaks Resort rang in the New Year with a few thousand of their favourite guests during the annual torchlight parade - Photo Tourism Sun Peaks

Team Hungary takes in a Canadian pond hockey game at the Sun Peaks ice rink during the Kamloops International Bantam Ice Hockey Tournament.

Serenade in the Snow helped to raise $14,000 for the Sun Peaks Education Society.

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OR POST YOUR PHOTOS USING #SUNPEAKSNEWS @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Maureen and Bryan Walker toast a memorable event at the 18th Annual Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival.

Christina Antoniak celebrates over eight years with Tourism Sun Peaks on her last day this month.

And they’re off! The Kookaburra Cup saw participants from every age during the 10th Family Cup.

Flying high above the New Year’s Eve crowd at the First Flight Big Air - Photo by Zuzy Rocka

Sam Loxton takes a break from his office to check out the goods.

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

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opinion PAGE Whistle woes in the TNRD 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.

“When I hear that whistle blowin’ I hang my head and cry.” — Johnny Cash, Folsom Prison Blues Some people enjoy the plaintive lament of a train whistle as a big engine goes by. Others, not so much. CN is a busy line that rumbles through McLure several times a day, and it’s getting busier. The grade crossing at Ferry Road is equipped with flashing lights and boom gates, but the trains

still blow their whistles. In 2006, residents submitted a petition to Grant Fraser, who was the director for Electoral Area P at the time, asking support for the cessation of the whistles. Fraser took it to the TNRD board, which agreed. A covering letter from the residents pointed out that sight lines at the crossing are clear in all directions. “Since the railway traffic has increased dramatically, the residents of McLure find that the train whistling has become unbearable and very disturbing,” the letter said. “We hope you realize how important this is to everyone and your immediate attention to this would be greatly appreciated.” Well, here we are in 2016 and I don’t think anyone would call 10 years “immediate.” So why hasn’t anything been done?

In fact, it’s not that nothing has been done, it’s just that it’s being done slowly. Sometimes the wheels of bureaucracy grind slowly down the track, and removing a train whistle is more complicated that one might think. John Sternig, Fraser’s successor as director, moved things along by funding a safety study on removal of the whistles, at a cost of $6,900. After I took over as Area P director a year ago, I thought this one would be easy to complete, and committed $7,700 in discretionary funding to construction of a fence as required for safety purposes. I expected the whistles to stop in a few weeks. It took several months to get the necessary permit from CN and to get the fence built. Since that time, back in May of last year,

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BODIE SHANDRO BACKCOUNTRY PERSPECTIVE Bodie Shandro is a CSGA, Canadian Ski Guide, part time heli ski guide with Mike Wiegele Heli Skiing near Blue River and Off Piste Camp Coordinator at Sun Peaks Resort.

id you know skiing has been in existence for over 5,000 years, with the earliest accounts possibly dating back as far as 600 BC? For as long as we have been gliding on snow in the forest, so too have there been tree wells around us. So why does it seem that only as of late has the term become more recognized? A tree well is essentially a hole or hollow created around the trunk of a tree where low hanging boughs have prevented snow from falling. Generally, the deeper the snowpack,

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

“SOMETIMES THE WHEELS OF BUREAUCRACY GRIND SLOWLY DOWN THE TRACK…” Liability, of course, is a major concern. Over the years, crossing standards have changed and everything is updated from time to time. Things like the condition of the crossing, the gradient of the approaches and the timing of the lights and gates all become subject to new scrutiny when removal of whistles is considered. Volume and type of traffic over the crossing

must be studied. In McLure’s case, the original safety report had to be reviewed and updated by the consultants, which I approved at a cost of just under $1,000. That has been completed and is now being reviewed by CN and MOTI. I’m hopeful that one day soon, we’ll be able to stand at the McLure crossing and listen to the last train blow its whistle as it goes past. Area P isn’t the only electoral area in which residents have asked for whistle cessation. Because there’s no designated funding available within the TNRD to study and implement silencing of train whistles, electoral area directors are looking at possibilities for changing that. Maybe other communities with situations similar to McLure will be able to get it done more quickly.

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the TNRD, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI), and CN have been working together to get the rest of the process completed.

the deeper the tree well. Tree wells may present a danger to hikers, snowshoers, skiers and snowboarders who may fall into them. As a skier or boarder, here are a few tips to consider: 1. Always ski or ride with a partner. Keep them in eyesight or earshot at all times. 2. Control your speed, look ahead and ski to “white spaces” between the trees. 3. Try to avoid turning on the uphill side of a tree in the event that you were to fall. 4. Remove pole straps before skiing in the trees as they may become entangled. 5. Carry a whistle (preferably attached to a high pocket zipper) to use as an emergency signaling device. What to do if you fall in a

tree well: 1. Try to stop yourself from falling deeper by grabbing branches or the trunk. 2. Don’t panic and try not to struggle as you may cause more snow to fall in on top of you. 3. Make a breathing space around your face. 4. Use your whistle or yell out to get the attention of your partner or others. 5. Try to gently rock your body to hollow out the snow and allow you space and air. Your partner should be on their way to assist you within minutes. If not, over time your gentle rocking and body heat may compact the snow enough to allow you to work your way out.

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SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/classified 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.

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SERVICES Sun Peaks Hair Studio “Style For Everyone” located on Burﬁeld Dr. Cuts, Colours, Formals. Professional Service at Low Cost. www.styleforeveryone.ca.

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The Sun Peaks Volunteer Fire Department Society is now accepting applications for Charity Partners for the 2016 Fireman’s Gala. Registered charities should submit a one page description of their organization and objectives. Submit applications before February 28 th to pozzas@live.com

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

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Three medals for freestyle club in Apex DALLAIRE HEADED TO BC WINTER GAMES PHOTO: DANIEL DALLAIRE

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

FIRST COMPETITION: The Sun Peaks Freestyle Club had five skiers compete at Apex Mountain in the club’s first official event.

he Sun Peaks Freestyle Club won three medals at their first-ever competition. With only one official day of training under their belt, five members of the club travelled to Apex Mountain Resort near Penticton to compete in three freestyle ski disciplines from Jan. 8 to 10. Luc Dallaire won a silver medal in the U12 slopestyle event and a bronze medal in the U12 big air. Mastin Hooper narrowly missed the podium twice, finish-

ing fourth in both events. Riley McClymont was right behind his teammates with a fifth place finish in the big air and he placed 11th in slopestyle. Charlie Roberts finished 16th in slopestyle and 13th in big air. David McClymont, the only Sun Peaks skier competing in the U10 category, won a bronze medal in big air and placed fourth in slopestyle. “I tried to put in the mentality that we’re out there skiing like every day at Sun Peaks except we’re somewhere new and exciting, and go have fun with it,” said coach Daniel Hoerz. “They

were all surprised with how well they did.” Following the competition, Dallaire was selected to compete on the U14 freestyle team at the BC Winter Games at Apex from Feb. 25 to 28. All five competitors also competed in moguls despite having no prior training in the discipline. “I feel like for the club success isn’t a big thing, it’s about having fun,” Hoerz said. “They’ve never (competed) and it’s just about going out there, going for the travel, going for the ski and trying out a new hill.” Although some members of

the Sun Peaks Freestyle Club have previously competed individually, Apex marked the first official competition as a group. “All the boys had fun and they’ve all got a drive and something to strive for at the next competition,” Hoerz said. “It was a great experience for them.” The Sun Peaks Freestyle Club is in its first season and consists of seven skiers between the ages of nine and 11. The club trains every Saturday and is preparing for their next competition at Silver Star Mountain Resort March 30 to April 3.

From beginners to the race course FNST HEADED TO BOARDERCROSS COMPETITION PHOTO: JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

ATTRACTING MORE RIDERS: Thirty-nine riders marks the highest participation ever for the Kamloops region First Nations Snowboard Team

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

everal members of Sun Peaks’ First Nations Snowboard Team are expected to compete in a boardercross competition at Big White beginning Feb. 14. The number of competitors will eclipse the total number of members the team had in its first year. The program began with only four kids and they had to hire a private instructor through the Sun Peaks ski school. Now in its seventh year, the program includes 39 snowboarders and eight coaches. “It’s a great program. Years ago I would’ve never thought that it would carry on to what it is today,” said Anne Keith, the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc youth, sports and recreation co-ordinator. “I know my boss and all the band members they didn’t think it would fly. They thought

I was nuts.” The program is designed to introduce local First Nations youth to a new sport and encourage a healthy lifestyle. The program has kids from Kamloops, Merritt and Barriere, and has included Chase residents in the past. “The goal overall is a healthy lifestyle and a sport for life. Hopefully they’re coming up here on their own when they’re 18 and 19 and they have their own cars,” Keith said. “A number of them have had issues in their past which we’re trying to move forward and break some of that.” The youth participating in the program receive a season pass and equipment as well as coaching every Saturday for 10 weeks. Team members have to meet criteria in their personal lives to participate. Ninety per cent program attendance is required; smoking, drugs and alcohol are pro-

hibited; and team members must maintain a C+ average in school. The team has beginners who have never strapped a board to their feet through to advanced riders who are preparing to compete. “I’m going to kill it at the competition this year,” said 18-yearold Sadie Lawrence, who is in her sixth year with the team. “Honestly, I hated snowboarding. At first I hated it. There were so many times that I would get so mad at myself because I couldn’t do it.” “Now I’m going to do that double black diamond,” she continued, pointing up at the steepest run on the mountain. “This season I’m going to do it and I’m going to ride it nicely and awesomely and I’m going to have fun.” Instilling fun on the mountain is paramount for the coaches involved in the program. Not all the kids will compete, but the goal is for everyone to enjoy themselves and to live a healthy and active lifestyle. “If they’re not having fun it’s very difficult to learn something,” said the beginner’s coach Harry Goldberg. “The kids do have fun and once we get on the chairs they just have a hoot. (The beginners) don’t believe they’ll get

on the chairs, and then by the end of the season we’ll be on every chair on the hill.” The positive encouragement between team members and from the coaches creates a good learning atmosphere and for experienced riders to continue improving. “It’s just genuinely fun. What’s really nice is you’re with the kids all year round so you progress with them and that’s really enjoyable,” Goldberg said. “They’re just good kids. Everybody has fun and everybody gets along.” “You get pointers not just from the coaches but from your peers,” Lawrence added. “Some

“THIS SEASON I’M GOING TO DO IT AND I’M GOING TO RIDE IT NICELY AND AWESOMELY AND I’M GOING TO HAVE FUN.” of us are at a different level, but we all try and help each other out.” The First Nations Snowboard Team program was founded in Squamish in 2004 and is affiliated with Canada Snowboard with the ultimate goal of sending a First Nations snowboarder to the Olympics. There are over 450 participants from more than 12 Nations across B.C., Alberta and Washington.

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Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 19

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Family Cup celebrates 10 years ENGLAND WINS TOP COUNTRY FOR FIRST TIME PHOTO SUBMITTED

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

READY TO RUMBLE: Both families and countries went head to head in 10th annual races.

ngland won the honour of top country for the first time at the 10th Annual Sun Peaks Family Cup. Seventy five racers representing four countries, England, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, took to the course on the Sun Catcher run on Jan. 9 for the 2016 version of the event. It was a decade ago that a partnership formed between Sun Peaks and Interschools Australia for a fun family race to be created at the beginning of January. Two Olympians with local connections opened the 10th year of the race and organizers heard nothing but positive feedback from participants.

“We had Nancy Greene open up, she was our forerunner along with Elli Terwiel who is a Sun Peaks local and Sochi (Olympics) competitor, so it was cool having those two open up for us,” said Dan Johnston, events assistant for Sun Peaks Resort LLP. “You get the whole families involved, the kids race against their parents. There was nothing but good comments and everyone had a good time.” “It’s broader. It’s reaching more people. More guests and more countries are signing up for it,” said Colin Brost, director of sales for Tourism Sun Peaks. “Traditionally it was known as an Australian-skewed event, but it’s definitely evolved more there.” The festivities have expand-

“IT’S BROADER. IT’S REACHING MORE PEOPLE. MORE GUESTS AND MORE COUNTRIES ARE SIGNING UP FOR IT.”

ed over the years. The event still focuses around the alpine race on Saturday but also includes the Kookaburra Cup Nordic Loppet on the Sunday, as well as family-oriented activities throughout the week. “It started out just being a race on a Saturday and that was it. It’s evolved and has different events throughout the week, skating parties, tubing parties, the Nordic component of the Kookaburra Cup, those things have been incorporated to make it more of an all-nations celebration,” Brost said.

It’s all about progression in the terrain park NEW FEATURES AND NEW NORDIC SKILLS PARK by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

he terrain park crew is continuing to expand jumps and other features to improve accessibility for beginners and experts alike. The most significant addition to the park scene in Sun Peaks this season was a small, temporary park located along the side of the 5 Mile run. The park had four features and was open in November and December before snowmaking was available to build the Rockstar Energy Terrain Park on Sundance Mountain. “We didn’t have snowmaking set up on the Sundance at that point in time, but we had the 5 Mile open. Part of the people

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that come, obviously there’s a percentage of people that come for park, so let’s give them a park if we can,” said Barney Mouat, director of outside operations for Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR). “It’s not an emerging trend anymore, this is part of the culture.” The new pocket park, as the crew calls it, was a hit and they’re working to install it permanently next season. “The only unfortunate part was we had to pull it out just because of (groomer) time and we couldn’t maintain it,” said Brad Ardern, the head park builder for SPR. “Everyone was loving it and saying we should keep it there all year, which we’re going to look at doing in the future.”

Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

Another addition for the 201516 ski season was a skills park for Nordic skiers. Mimicking a typical ski cross or boarder cross course, the Nordic park is designed to help cross country skiers develop their basic skills for when they are out on the trails. “The focus was to really challenge people on their Nordic skis and get them better at their edge control as well as the bumps,” Ardern said. The Nordic course features a start ramp, rollers, a mushroom-like obstacle skiers have to climb over and a return berm. Rockstar Energy has returned as the main sponsor of the main terrain park and Billabong has offered sponsorship this year with a new rail feature and jack-

ets for the park crew. The park crew also placed trail counters at the entrances to the two beginner parks to monitor the amount of people utilizing the features, which will make it easier to track the business of the parks. “I think the proof is in the pudding,” Mouat said. “When the lifts close there will be 20 kids who show up to the platter and there’s no 60 foot jumps (accessible from) the platter.” Continuing to build a terrain park system that’s safe for beginner riders and skiers to gain experience and skills has been imperative for Ardern during his two seasons in Sun Peaks. “The main positive things I’m hearing are (there’s) a lot of progression this year and that was

what we were trying to aim for from the start, to have a good progression so we can build riders up from beginner all the way through expert,” he said. However, there is one striking improvement between this season and last. There’s more snow. “Last year was a very challenging year for everyone from the snowmakers all the way through to the groomers and building a park with little snow is always hard,” Ardern said. “We battled through it last year and this year is a breath of fresh air in comparison.” “We’ve almost got too much snow and the park is getting buried. We’re constantly digging out features, but that’s the way we like it.”

For the fun of the game HOCKEY LEAGUE ENGOURAGES BEGINNERS PHOTO: JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

GOOD OLD HOCKEY GAME: The ski patrol’s team (white) defeated the lift attendants’ team (black) in novice league action on Jan. 7.

“IT’S ALL FRIENDLY. EVERYONE’S JUST LAUGHING AS THEY’RE TRIPPING OVER EACH OTHER AND TRYING TO KNOCK THE PUCK AROUND.”

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

he Sun Peaks Hockey League takes place in a fun, no pressure atmosphere that gives people new to Canada a chance to try the national pastime. Unlike your typical night of hockey, the SPHL strongly en-

courages players who have little or no playing experience. The league plays every Thursday night and has just under 120 players on 12 teams. Two thirds of the teams play in the novice division. “It’s a good, fun atmosphere, especially in the novice league where half the people can bare-

ly stand up on skates when they start and four or five weeks in they can actually get down the ice without falling over,” said SPHL rookie Vicky Rutherford, who had never played hockey before moving to Sun Peaks from England. “It’s all friendly. Everyone’s just laughing as they’re tripping over each other and trying to knock the puck around,” said Australian rookie Richie Barlow. The games are competitive, but played in a friendly manner where coworkers challenge each other and rivalries form between different factions of the ski hill. For example, the most anticipated game of the night on Jan. 7 pitted the lift attendants’ team against the ski patrol’s team. The players of the previous games, as well as groups of friends, lined the side of the arena to cheer and jeer. “I thought it was great fun,” said Sam Riggs, who was playing in his first ever hockey game. “For an experience from

an Englishman it was different but with the players we’ve got, with the fans we’ve got chanting and cheering all the time, we had a solid game.” For international workers in Sun Peaks it also gives them a taste of Canadian culture. “Toes are a bit numb, the (skates) are not as comfy as football boots, but I’ll get used to it,” Riggs said. “I think there is one rink in my city. I’d never even watched it on TV or anything,” said Australian Casey Lambert, who also made her SPHL debut on Jan. 7. Although they are only starting their hockey careers, each of the SPHL’s rookies are eager to improve their skills. “I can actually get the puck down the ice. I still can’t score, but I can get it down the ice,” Rutherford said. “Eventually in another four years I might be in the (advanced) league.” “It’s a really good crew out here all helping me out and encouraging me,” Lambert said. “My butt is a bit sore but it’ll

happen, I’ll learn.” Now that they have had a taste of hockey, will they return to the ice? “I’ve got to, haven’t I? I’m going to come back and I’m going to pop one or two in I think this season,” Riggs said. “I’m calling it now, I’m calling two goals and one assist.” “I’ll be back every week,” added Lambert.

Banked Slalom expands to weekend festival FILE PHOTO

TIGHT BERMS: Jase Peterson takes a turn on last year’s course.

by JAMIE SHINKEWSKI

he fifth annual Bluebird Banked Slalom is expanding from a single day race to an all-weekend festival. Burton has come on board as the main sponsor and will introduce the Burton Mountain Festival as part of the 2016 events. The festival will begin on Saturday, Feb. 13 with a small “Riglet” park for small kids to

try snowboarding in a safe environment. Later on Saturday Women’s Ride Day is planned. Burton will bring two trailers full of equipment for testing and demonstrations. “They’re promoting women’s snowboarding trying to get them more involved,” said Kent Thiessen, a spokesperson for the Bluebird Day Fund and owner of Oronge Boardshop in Kamloops. “They’re going to have a whole bunch of demos for women, there’s going to be a DJ on the semi trailer, it’s going to be a super fun atmosphere.” Burton is also sponsoring all the women’s categories for the Banked Slalom on Sunday, Feb. 14. All the women’s prizing will be supplied by Burton and any women who register will get free coaching to help them prepare for the course. “Saturday they can go into the slalom course and that coach will take them down the course, talk about lines, how they should ride certain features, the whole works,”

Thiessen said. The Slalom organizers also hope to attract more racers this year. The race usually has around 85 participants, but Thiessen said they want to get closer to their capacity of 120. “We’d like to see increasing numbers in the women’s category because of the support that they’re getting from Burton,” Thiessen said. “The male category is always jacked. Our goal this year is building that women’s category.” The event serves as one of three main fundraisers for the Bluebird Day Fund. The money is used for the snowboard mentorship program with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the freestyle park program. Volunteers are still needed for course building leading up to the race and on the day of the slalom for set up and gate judges. Volunteers will be provided with a lift pass to help with the event as well as an additional pass for a personal day of riding. To volunteer or for more information, visit Guest Services.

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ALPINE RESORT REALTY

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

Serving Sun Peaks and area since 1995

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

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4119 Sundance Drive - $2,900,000

This stunning slopeside home offers the ultimate ski-in, ski-out as one of the best locations in the Resort featuring superior design & finishing with extensive use of stone, granite, hardwood & tile. This home radiates warmth & intimacy with the most incredible setting & presents an exceptional opportunity to own one of the very best in resort living. Outstanding views, radiant in floor heat, HRV, games room, hot tub, oversized garage & large sundeck off the kitchen which fronts right onto the ski run.

1373 Burﬁeld Drive - $418,000

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Great opportunity for your family to have the perfect 2 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhouse in the growing community of Sun Peaks. Fantastic location with views of Mt. Morrisey & just steps away from the ski lifts, nordic trails & village. This home is being offered fully furnished with beautiful decor, cozy river rock fireplace and warm pine finishing. Features secure heated underground parking, ski storage locker, private hot tub, sunny southern exposure & GST paid.

#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.

#45 Woodhaven - $529,900

Stylish 4 bedroom plus spacious family room, ski-in, ski-out townhouse with exceptional finishing 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 paid.

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#3 Sun Mountain Villas - $247,900

One of the best buys at Sun Peaks! Bright and spacious 2 bedroom townhouse. Enjoy the large covered deck with vaulted roof line, open kitchen, dining and living room with cozy gas fireplace with slate & rich timber mantel. Ski-in access, steps to the golf course & easy walk to lifts & village. Updated tile, slate, paint & trim, with large bedrooms, private tandem garage & workshop/storage area. This property has been owner occupied since brand new and is in excellent condition. GST paid.

This 2013 PNE Prize Home is a beautiful open concept two storey home filled with classical architectural details and state of the art fixtures & appliances. Features rustic traditional w/ country chic decor that has a colour palette of crisp white, cream, black & linen. This sophisticated home features 3 spacious bdrms, 4 baths, games room complete with pool table and 2nd storey family room. GST paid.

1410 Burﬁeld Drive - $399,900

Great 3 bedroom home plus loft and separate 2 bedroom in-law suite located on majestic McGillivray Creek. This home has great ski-in access and is located just across the road from the Burfield Chairlift. Spacious modern kitchen with open dining room & access to large sundeck overlooking forest, mountains and creek. Enjoy the cozy gas fireplace in the comfortable living room with high ceilings & soaring windows, beautiful pine trim, B/I vacuum, high efficiency furnace, private garage and additional parking. Offered fully furnished & GST paid.

Fireside Lodge starting at: $103,900 Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Lodge starting at: $71,900 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: $23,900

#6 Bridge Gate - $889,000

This prestigious townhome features 4 bedrooms plus spacious family room, separate ski room, impressive dining & living area with post & beam features, picture windows, beautiful reclaimed fir flooring & stunning rock fireplace. Exquisite attention to finishing and detail with custom designed gourmet kitchen with granite & superior commercial appliances, 2 car garage & large sundeck to enjoy the amazing sunsets & commanding views. Hot tub and furnishings included. GST is paid.

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#14 Crystal Forest - $244,000

Sunny courtyard location w/ south facing exposure &ski hill views of Mt. Morrisey compliment this beautiful 2 storey, 2 bedroom townhouse. This home is being offered 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.

www.sunpeaksrealty.com Vol 14 Issue 1 January 22 — February 18

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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.

5411 Lookout Ridge - $988,000

This custom log half duplex with garage and workshop offers great ski-in access and an easy ski-out to the Burfield Chairlift. Features 4 bedrooms with an open living, dining & kitchen area with vault ceiling and access out to the private back yard. Enjoy the cozy gas fireplace & spacious sundeck looking out onto the ski hill with fabulous mountain & valley views. The efficient boiler provides continuous hot water and in-floor heating. GST paid.

#4 Alpine Greens - $189,900

#59 Crystal Forest - $269,000