Spin v16i6 2018 by Sun Peaks Independent News

Celebrating 20 years

New cannabis

OF MOUNTAIN HIGH Page 6

BYLAW PASSED Page 2

Volume 16 Issue > 6 JUNE 15 — JULY 12

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YOURS FREE TO TAKE HOME

Chef makes lemonade from lemons Cancer diagnoses inspires cookbook Annie Campbell working in the kitchen at Voyageur Bistro. | PHOTO SPIN

JEAN STRONG ANYONE WHO HAS ENJOYED EATING A MEAL AT VOYAGEUR BISTRO in the past ﬁve years has Annie Campbell to thank for creating infamous recipes like beer and bacon marmalade, duck drumettes and pork

belly ribs. But Campbell was forced to step back from her role as head chef after being diagnosed with cancer in October 2017. The diagnoses was serious, and came as a shock to the 30-year-old who thought she was having minor issues with her gallbladder. Doctors told her to expect to receive

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chemotherapy for the rest of her life. But one of the hardest parts of digesting the news was being told to stop working the line in the kitchen. “That was hard. I actually really like my job,” she said. “It’s been such an amazing experience, my first head chef job, I was creating the first menu...it was definitely, after the diag-

noses, the worst thing to hear.” After getting the news and beginning treatment Campbell said she spent a lot of time at home and visiting with friends and family but grew tired of always being in the same place and knew she still liked cooking. It was then she realized she had a chance to do something

she had always dreamed of— creating her own cookbook. “I said ‘I’m taking life’s lemons and making some lemonade.’” In early 2018 she began the process of reﬁning her well loved recipes and CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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scaling them back to be used in home kitchens instead of restaurants. She wanted the recipes, all classic Canadian fare, to be complemented by information on Canadian history and began her research. Campbell was helped by Gemma Harris, friend and owner of Alpine Images Photography, who photographed the meals and by Sun Peaks artist Zuzy Rocka with illustrations and a logo. Once the information was compiled and photographs were ready Campbell created the book herself, teaching herself computer programs to layout photos with recipes and information. In May she received the final printing proofs of the book. “It was so exciting, almost seeing it, holding it in my hands,” she said. “It’s my baby, it’s something people can tangibly hold and take

“THIS IS SOMETHING I CAN DO THAT I LOVE BUT ALSO FUNDRAISE.” to their homes. I’m still a bit overwhelmed by it all.” After all of her hard work she settled on the name “The Little Ladle Presents: Classic Canadian Fare.” “The Little Ladle” is a name she has always dreamed of using if she opened her own restaurant serving fresh bread and stews, something she’s realized may not be feasible now. But she said she would like to create other cookbooks in the future, especially one focused on soups and stews. “With the last name Campbell I also make some pretty amazing soups.” In June 1,000 copies of the book will overrun her home before they can be distributed

to retailers around the village who have asked to sell them. She also received sponsorships from businesses to cover her costs so money raised from the book can go directly to her and her treatments. “I’ve never been one to ask for handouts. I thought this is something I can do that I love but also fundraise (because I can’t work).” In June Campbell will have the chance to launch her book where the journey began, at Voyageur Bistro in the Kookaburra Lodge. They will be available for sale from June 20. She said her plans are to take a break and enjoy her accomplishment and spend more time with friends she

has made since she arrived in Sun Peaks 10 years ago before thinking of a second cookbook. “I’ve been offered pretty much everything which is so lovely. I try to stay positive. Some days are better than others. There’s a plethora of people I can call who will just be there.” She will require more chemotherapy at the Kamloops Cancer Clinic but does her best to stay upbeat. “My luck’s got to turn around at some point,” she said with a laugh. “It was a blessing in disguise, having more time to see people more and hang out with people more. It’s giving me a chance to make stronger connections with people, I really did work too much. “I still hold out hope I’ll be able to come back even part time.”

REPORTER Jean Strong jean@sunpeaksnews.com

>> Council passes bylaw on cannabis sales

REPORTER NikkiFredikson nikki@sunpeaksnews.com

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

ON THE COVER

As the date of the federal legalization of marijuana draws closer the council of Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) has passed a bylaw that amends zoning

>> SPR seeks approval from province for new lots Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) is seeking

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Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

bylaw 1400. The amendment, number 114, prohibits any kind of cannabis retail in all commercial and residential zones. Anyone wishing to open a cannabis retail shop must apply for spot rezoning which will require approval from the council and a public hearing. “The intent is that we will introduce site specific retail zoning that is a distance from

areas kids will be,” said SPMRM Mayor Al Raine. “It will have to be rezoned and have a public hearing so people can have input. “At this point you can’t just walk in and sell…An acceptable proposal will be a part of rezoning.” Raine added another bylaw is likely to come before the council in the next month that will ban smoking of all kinds on the village stroll with

cooperation from Sun Peaks Resort LLP, who own the property. “Personally I think it’s a bad thing to have a bunch of people smoking cannabis in the village squares and walking up and down where kids and people are, especially with the smell of smoking.” Raine said the rules around public consumption may differ for products like edibles which don’t

Crown grants for new residential lots, three in the East Village and one in the West Village. After the last lot owned by SPR was sold in 2017 the company is moving ahead with additional development laid out in the resort’s master plan. The layout of the

lots can be seen in archaeological assessment documents submitted to Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality council at a June 5 special council meeting. Lot 34 and 35 are between Bridge Gate and the end of Valley Drive. A proposed road

runs from just south of the East Village Skiway skier overpass and Lot 36 A sits on either side of said road. Lot 70 is the only lot currently proposed for the West Village, beside where The Burfield hostel now sits after being completed last winter.

have the same smell and therefore same impact on those around the consumer. He also said he would like to see specific spots designated as smoking areas for cigarettes, cannabis and vaping. At least two people have spoken with SPMRM about the possibility of opening a store, Raine said, but none have started the application process.

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Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

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LOCAL NEWS Whitecroft property owner faces citizenship revocation VUJICIC FAILED TO DISCLOSE MANSLAUGHTER CONVICTION JEAN STRONG BOZIDAR VUJICIC, ALSO KNOWN AS BOB, purchased a modest lot in Whitecroft, B.C. near Sun Peaks in the spring of 2017. The status of plans for the property is unknown as his citizenship may be revoked. Vujicic applied for permanent residency in Canada in 1999 and made the move from Bosnia in 2002. In 2006, he swore his citizenship oath. He now faces losing it after Federal Court Judge Justice James O’reilly ruled Vujicic fraudulently obtained his residency by not disclosing a manslaughter conviction in his application. Vujicic was convicted of manslaughter in 1994 in Serbia after

shooting a man in the heart during a large fight he was found to have instigated. That ruling was successfully appealed but after a retrial in 1998 Vujicic was sentenced to eight years in prison and ordered to pay costs and to surrender his firearm. He was not immediately taken into custody after his conviction and before he served his sentence he applied for permanent residency in Canada. During the federal trial Vujicic said he was confused and didn’t realize he had been convicted and sentenced despite being present during each trial and sentencing. During the application process he provided two certificates showing no convictions against him, one from Bosnia and the other from Montenegro. He failed to produce a certificate from Ser-

bia, where he was convicted, and stated during the trail he believed he couldn’t obtain a Serbian certificate as he had never been a resident there. All three countries were part of Yugoslavia before its breakup. Despite some evidence being thrown out for being incorrectly entered into the record and Vujicic’s claims of confusion, Justice O’Reilly said he was satisfied Vujicic “failed to disclose his conviction for manslaughter in his application for permanent residence, knowing that he had been found guilty and sentenced for that offence in 1998. His conduct is consistent with an intention to deceive Canadian immigration officials.” The 1994 manslaughter is not his only run in with the law; Vujicic

Bozidar Vujicic’s citizenship will be revoked after a federal trail found he failed to disclose a manslaughter conviction. | PHOTO WHATS APP

has been in provincial court in B.C. on 13 occasions for various violations, municipal offences and a charge of driving under the influence. Vujicic’s Whitecroft property also caused friction with the regional district. By the fall of 2017 he had been contacted by bylaw officers from the Thompson Nicola Regional District and fined

multiple times due to complaints regarding upkeep of the property and the illegal placement of a motorhome. Although the motorhome was moved to Upper Louis Creek Road on May 22 it’s unknown if Vujicic will move ahead with his stated plans for a bed and breakfast, microbrewery, winery or cidery on the property.

Style for Everyone moves to village

Heidi MacGowan poses in her new salon in the village. | PHOTO SPIN

JEAN STRONG SIX YEARS AGO HEIDI MACGOWAN OPENED her first hair salon in her home on Burfield Dr. In the last week of May she opened the doors to her own space in the village core. The new salon, next to Bolacco Café features rustic wood accents and fresh flowers with two stations to cut and style hair. The transformation of the space, most recently home to Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks, was completed in three weeks despite large projects like ripping out a three metre long concrete desk, taking shelves

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off walls and extensive plumbing and carpentry work. “I had the design in my head as soon as I walked in,” MacGowan said, adding that she only got the idea to move into the village in April. She said the response on opening day blew her away. “It was a huge response the first day. I was already fully booked, I had four inquiries, I had walk-ins. It’s been very well received.” Finally being in the space after years in the basement of her home is surreal, she said. “It feels weird, I love my job. It did feel good starting on my first day just doing hair.”

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

MacGowan has come a long way since moving to Sun Peaks without knowing it was a ski resort and working as a server for many years. She and her husband now have two children and are both business owners in the community. “I’ve worked in many different places and cities and I’ve never been as happy as when I’m working in Sun Peaks...Everybody here is so happy.” Looking into the future MacGowan said she would like to expand to offer manicures and pedicures and do mores styling for weddings, all while staying focused on being a business for locals.

LOCAL NEWS New beginner features for the Bike Park NEW GREEN FEATURES COMING FOR THE END OF 2018 SEASON NIKKI FREDRIKSON Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) is bridging the gap between the technical handbuilt terrain they’re known for and smooth trails for those new to the sport in their ongoing effort to be a leader in destination mountain biking in the province. Chief marketing officer for SPR Adian Kelly confirmed the resort is working on a top-to-bottom green run coming off the Sunburst lift flowing down towards the Sundance lift before descending to the village base. “This is something we’ve been looking at for quite awhile and we were able to make it happen this year,” said Kelly. “We’re still in the early stages of marking out and laying out exactly where the trail will go. We have an external contractor whose coming in to help us build the trail and they’ll be on site here pretty soon.” While construction of the new trail will continue throughout most of the 2018 riding season,

the new addition will balance out the trail system making the mountain a bit less intimidating for beginners. “We do have Smooth Smoothie but it’s not necessarily the type of green trail we’re looking for in terms of the grade, the experience, the layout, that type of thing. We also wanted to have multiple offerings off the top of the lift in terms of green trail access,” he said. Another complementary addition is the new Bike Skills Park that will utilize the magic carpet area to provide a place for beginners to learn and progress before going up to the top of the chairlift. “It builds off what we’re doing with that green trail from the top and gives us a whole new biking zone here at Sun Peaks that again opens up the sport to a bunch of new people and something they can do on a more approachable way,” said Kelly. It will be similar to ski resort’s beginner zone in the winter

Construction is underway on the new Bikes Skills Park. | PHOTO SPIN

season with platter lifts areas for people to learn and get their bearing before heading up the mountain. “We’re doing the same thing with biking which I think is pretty unique. I don’t know of other resorts in our area that are doing anything like that. It’s going to be something that will differentiate us, something I really think will help families have a lot of fun and help grow the sport of mountain biking here at Sun Peaks,” said Kelly.

The Bike Skills Park will be fully constructed for summer 2019. Portions of the park are expected to be accessible late this summer. Work has also been ongoing throughout the spring to bring upgrades to existing trails. “With Smooth Smoothie there’s been a big rework on a lower part of the trail and with Route 66 there’s been a rework on an upper part of the trail. We got a good chunk of work done last year so it’s just kind of build-

ing off the work that was done last season,” he explained. Other improvements include changes to exits and entrances to trails as well as Ain’t No Scrubs has now been incorporated into Steam Shovel creating a top-to-bottom freeride jump trail. “It’s an evolving process as we build and see how it fits in over the summer of 2018,” said Kelly. SPR’s summer chair lift operations kick off on June 22.

Bluebird Day Fund plans growth for next year NIKKI FREDRIKSON THE BLUEBIRD DAY FUND (BDF) will see a number of changes to the organization coming in 2019 including expanding their events, programming and board of directors. Coming out of a discussion at their annual general meeting held on May 28, the BDF will look to partner with other organizations in the Kamloops area to provide more opportunities for youth year round. During a review of their annual events, the board of directors decided to add a new event in 2019. “It’ll be a family fun run. We don’t have all the details nailed down yet but that’s what we’re going to look at for next year,” said Ashley Spear, BDF president. Working on the details of that event will be the board’s

newly elected member Mike Hazel who was named the co-director of events. “He has been a volunteer with us for years so he’s come out to all of our events, supports wherever he can in a volunteer capacity,” said Spear. “It was time we made him part of the board.” They will also be incorporating a youth peer program which will allow two youth to learn more about the organizational side of BDF. “My oldest daughter is turning 13 and inquired how she can help and learn more about it, so we put forward a new directive where we can have her join in and help see just how things are run,” explained Spears. “We’ve also opened that opportunity to another member but I haven’t heard if he’s accepted or not yet so they’ll be peer board members.” She said she hopes the new

Members of the Bluebird Day Fund board celebrate at a past Fall Ball. | FILE PHOTO, ALPINE IMAGES.

directive will help foster her daughter’s interest and eventually help youth become future full board members. “It also helps keep us in touch with what the youth want because they’re right at

the age of our programs, our target audience of who we want to help,” said Spear. As the organization shifts into summer, they will get a head start on planning their next two annual events, the

Giver Balls Open Golf Tournament and the Fall Ball. Anyone interested in learning more about the Bluebird Day Fund or getting involved as a volunteer can visit www.bluebirddayfund.com.

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

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LOCAL NEWS Two decades of slinging pizza MOUNTAIN HIGH CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY JEAN STRONG WHEN RYAN SCHMALZ ARRIVED IN SUN PEAKS in 1997 in a Westfalia van he had no idea his future held celebrating 20 years of owning and operating the community’s beloved pizza shop. But after a season ski bumming he wanted to ﬁnd a way to stay put. “I fell in love with the lifestyle,” he said. “There was a commercial spot sitting empty with a for sale or lease sign so I thought ‘how can I live up here and include the lifestyle and work?’” Schmalz recognized every ski town needs a pizza place and despite having no business or restaurant experience he jumped on the idea. A last minute chance to purchase the spot instead of lease it came up, which was a risky move at a time when much of today’s village didn’t exist, but he took the chance. That decision, he said, is a big reason why he is still around 20 years later. With advice from his brotherin-law, lots of pizza tasting under

his belt and plenty of work on the space, Schmalz opened the doors to Mountain High Pizza for the ﬁrst time on July 4, 1998. While opening in the summer when the village was far quieter may seem like a strange choice, he said it helped him and his staff (scooped from a Kamloops pizza joint) work out the kinks before the winter crowds. When mountain bike racers stopped in Schmalz quickly learned what worked and what didn’t. And from that ﬁrst day they offered delivery all over the village. “We opened with 16 pizzas on the menu and create your own. Now we have 24. Most of them are still on there. “I worked every day,” he said. “We started with a staff of two, then three. We grew with the mountain.” The growth continued, hitting a high from 2004 to 2006 when the U.S. dollar made Sun Peaks more attractive to American skiers. But the big boom was followed by a bust with the economic crash of 2008.

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“We went from being used to being at a certain level, and then we had to run things tighter. We had less staff doing the same things, business owners were working in more.” But slices continued to sell and eventually more people began to return to the resort, but seasonality remained a constant challenge. “One day there’s 5,000 people in the village the next day there’s 100. It’s tough to manage...One day of business in Sun Peaks can be the same as three or four days in a city. If you don’t run it efﬁciently it’s ampliﬁed so much more.” Being in business so long has also given Schmalz a unique perspective on the community as he’s watched it grow. He also met his now wife on the mountain and had two children. “The biggest changes for me, for the positive, are in 2010 when the municipality was incorporated. It gave Sun Peaks structure, before we were a lawless society, there were no rules, just fun. “And, now that I have two young kids, the biggest change was the school opening.” Looking back on 20 years of selling ‘za, Schmalz can see a huge shift in the way he operates. “Twenty years ago we just had a cash register, then we had dial up on one line and if the phone rang while we took a Visa payment it would cancel the payment, we had to have a seperate line. “Then we went to handheld units, we had mobile machines to the door for delivery which was huge. We had pagers for our drivers to come in because there wasn’t the same cell service there is today.” Now they have a fully computerized system and just launched

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Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

• groceries • produce • Meat & Produce • Baked Goods • Oso Negro Coffee • Pharmacy/Personal Items

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

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250.578.2414

Ryan and Jillian Schmalz enjoy some pizza with their children, Gus and Eloise, and dog Shiloh. | PHOTO SPIN

online ordering for the ﬁrst time. Customers can use the website or an Android app to customize their pizza and have it delivered right to their door. It even provides the option of ordering at a speciﬁc time to plan ahead. It’s a way to give the customer more. Schmalz has also kept his doors open for nearly 1,000 consecutive days to show support for the community and help contribute to being a year round resort. This July 4, 20 years

after opening, he will thank the community with 50 percent off everything for one day. What’s in the future? For Schmalz’s children, who he calls members of the top three per cent of pizza eaters worldwide, it’s more pizza. For Schmalz himself? More pizza of course (ﬁve cheese, he’s a minimalist), but also more time spent raising his family in the community he’s called home, and helped shape, for 20 years.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

LOCAL NEWS Handling tragedy in a small town BRANDI SCHIER PUBLISHER’S NOTE brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

To say it was an intense winter to be in Sun Peaks would be an accurate statement. While the community has not been immune to tragedies in the past, the length of time missing Sun Peaks resident Ryan Shtuka’s disappearance has continued is unprecedented for us. The impressive search effort put forth by his family, the community, RCMP and Kamloops Search and Rescue was present every day and it will always be how I remember the past four months. Searchers probing snowbanks on my way to work, helicopters ﬂying over-

head and the ever present social media attention were inescapable. I’m proud to say the community has remained resilient throughout this journey, having the empathy to continue assisting the Shtuka family even when it may have been easier to respond negatively to some of the more intrusive, damaging and drawn out components of the search. Different organizations, such as Sun Peaks Fire Rescue, the municipality, Sun Peaks Resort LLP, alongside business owners and citizens stepped up help how they could, all while welcoming a record number of skiers and guests throughout the winter. For myself, the most challenging factor was the massive social me-

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What I can say is that anyone who has lived here this winter will never stop looking. Whenever we are out on a trail, driving to the resort, or walking through the village, one part of our brain will always be looking for Ryan. Even uncovering one shred of evidence to conﬁrm he is somewhere in Sun Peaks would be immensely valuable. At SPIN, we will continue to work with ofﬁcials and Ryan’s family to provide whatever clarity we can on an extremely unclear situation. As Heather and Scott Shtuka transition back to their home in Beaumont, Alta. we wish them healing as they process their grief, and promise even if they aren’t here, Sun Peaks won’t forget Ryan.

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covering the story as accurately, thoroughly and compassionately as we could. Keeping articles newsworthy with shockingly little conﬁrmed information or new developments hasn’t been easy but we’ve done our best. Clearly the impact on our community pales in comparison to the daily anguish and uncertainty Ryan’s family and friends are feeling, but to dismiss our collective experience for that reason takes away from the impact Ryan’s life and disappearance has had on all of us. He was a member of our community and being unable to ﬁnd him or provide answers for his family after all of our efforts hurts us too. At its core Sun Peaks is a small town and it affected all residents to varying degrees.

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dia response to the situation. While the majority of online posts were positive and helped create awareness across the country, there was a darker undercurrent present. These posts were published without regard for who they were impacting or how their actions could be harmful. While most residents of Sun Peaks eventually stopped reading, unwilling to deal with the negative scrutiny and repetitive questions, our newsroom didn’t have that option and we continue to monitor the constant online chatter around Ryan’s disappearance. We’ve looked the other way in the face of misinformation, insinuations, harassment and borderline libel. We fought back the only way we knew how—by

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ANNUAL HYDRANT FLUSHING The Utility will start flushing hydrants and performing valve maintenance as of June. Please slow down when you see Utility Crews working on the side of the road. For more information on the impact of hydrant flushing, please visit the Utility’s website.

UTILITIES ANNUAL SEWER FLUSHING

Our contractor will be in the resort starting mid July to ensure our sewer mains continue to flow. You will see their trucks flushing and cameraing specific sections of the resort again this year. For more information about these maintenance tasks, call the utilities office at 250-578-2020 or email info@sunpeaksutilities.com

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

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COMMUNITY Five recruits join SPFR Work Experience Program JEAN STRONG FIVE RECRUITS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY, and the world, have joined Sun Peaks Fire Rescue (SPFR) in their Work Experience Program which runs from May to October and gives participants hands on experience, training and community involvement. Chris Mark, from Leicester, England, travelled the world before landing in Sun Peaks in 2016. He left the United Kingdom at the age of 21, taught English as second language in Korea, travelled, and completed a longterm bike ride before pursuing a career as a first responder. “I wanted to be a firefighter since I was a kid. I like that it pushes you to learn and help people... There are not too many jobs that rewarding.” He worked a season in Golden, B.C. as a ski patroller before being hired at Sun Peaks. He shadowed before being recruited to SPFR in January 2017 and being selected for WEP this year. He has his Occupational First Aid 3 and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) license and is set to begin work with the BC Ambulance Service but his dream is still working as a firefighter in B.C. He founded the Sun Peaks Mountain Rescue Society last year to fundraise for equipment for local first responders to train with. “I’m very grateful to get a chance to be part of the WEP program and to call it (Sun Peaks) home for another summer.” Rylan Shaw, a Toronto native, came specifically for the WEP program. At home he worked as a medical responder at events while volunteering for organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Despite going to school for engineering, he was inspired to become a firefighter after he was struck by a vehicle and wowed by the firefighters who attended. He has completed many courses including EMR, sign language for emergency responders, confined spaces, rope rescue, mental health

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first aid and his favourite, vehicle extrication. During the WEP, Shaw would like to get more hands on medical experience before working in Ontario. “It makes me feel good inside, giving back,” he said. Jamie Sharp, another Torontorian, is happy to return to Sun Peaks. He spent time here as a ski racer and was in and out of B.C. for many years. Sharp found himself extremely sick when he was younger and with the help of a ski coach came up with goals. One was to go in a burning building. He said the second he did it with the help of his local firehall, he was hooked. He left behind an education in history and criminology to become a firefighter, attending firefighting school in Texas and training as a paramedic through the Justice Institute of B.C. (JIBC) in Victoria. Since then he has worked as an industrial firefighter and Hazmat technician but said he is excited to return to B.C. for the WEP. He said he appreciates the hands on approach and getting involved in the community. “I like the comraderie, the integrity, the brothership, that it’s team oriented,” he said. “You can achieve more as a group.” Denis Karras had a long journey before arriving in Sun Peaks. He was born in the Ukraine before moving to Canada at six years old and growing up in Vancouver. He was drawn to the Interior, spending five

The five WEP participants will get hands on experience during their six month program. | PHOTO SUPPLIED

years in Kelowna, studying at the University of B.C.’s Okanagan campus. After his studies in microbiology he worked as a treeplanter before deciding to switch directions to emergency first response. Karras said he appreciates it’s a more social career than science and has more humanitarian aspects. He has worked as a Hazmat technician, been involved in many fundraisers and volunteered for causes like hospitals, UNICEF, palliative care, working with disabled children and medical work for St. John Ambulance. Karras said he is looking forward to practical experience and giving back to Sun Peaks any way he can before moving onto being a career firefighter, hopefully in the Lower Mainland. Matthew McLaughlin is a Vancouver boy who grew up in Toronto. He attended Capilano University and Simon Fraser University to study history before attending JIBC and the B.C. In-

WE ARE EXPANDING OUR TEAM! Bear Country is looking for an experienced and dedicated Guest Service Agent. The ideal candidate is focused on a high level of customer service, has excellent people skills and enjoys working in a fast-paced team environment. This is a full time, year-round position with room for advancement within the department. Remuneration is based on experience, performance. Starting wage: between CAD 14 and CAD 16 Please send your resume to manager@bearcountry.ca

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stitute of Technology for fire protection, inspection and testing. McLaughlin said he wanted to switch after university because he realized he loved teamwork and social interaction. “I realized that sitting in a class or office was not what I wanted,” he said. “I wanted to be active in the community and provide a service for others.” He has completed many

courses but his favourite area is rope rescue. “For me it’s being the person that others can depend on. You can be the person that makes a difference.” After using the WEP to become more familiar with equipment and tools and gain experience on calls he would like to return to his home of North Vancouver as a firefighter.

LOCAL NEWS Search and Rescue stumped by Shtuka case SPRING THAW BRINGS NO CLUES

JEAN STRONG HEATHER SHTUKA AND HER HUSBAND, SCOTT, ARRIVED IN SUN PEAKS late at night on Feb. 17 after their son Ryan was reported missing by his friends. His disappearance launched a massive search effort spanning over three months, and involving dozens of trained searchers and animals and over 700 volunteers. A GoFundMe raised over $90,000 to assist the family with search efforts and living costs. On May 26 and 27 Kamloops Search and Rescue (KSAR) returned to the resort for a fifth search with around 25 searchers and a dog team. Kamloops RCMP also attended the search with multipurpose dogs. KSAR manager Alan Hobler said the weekend search was unsuccessful. He added advanced search and rescue theory and formulas pointed them back to the area around where Ryan was last seen on Burfield Dr. Hobler said the first search on Feb. 18 spanned 18 hours and was the one key opportunity to find Ryan alive. Then, after two nights at temperatures below -20 C, the search became a body recovery. That change impacted how the search was approached by officials, in this case meaning waiting for easier and safer conditions to search. “This time I think we exhausted most areas,” he said. “We can’t search to 100 per cent detection, we probably can’t search to even 80 or 90 per cent detection. That would require way more resources than are available. “There is a chance he was missed and is close to where he disappeared; it’s also possible he’s somewhere else in the province or country... people are often found off the beaten track nine or 10 years later.”

“THERE IS A CHANCE HE WAS MISSED AND IS CLOSE TO WHERE HE DISAPPEARED; IT’S ALSO POSSIBLE HE’S SOMEWHERE ELSE IN THE PROVINCE OR COUNTRY...”

The intense searching with no results has been difficult on KSAR members, Hobler said. “It’s very frustrating. Our members are sort of emotionally involved too,” he said, adding critical incident stress management counsellors were brought in specifically for those involved with this case. Hobler said he has never seen the same amount of civilian volunteers searching day after day. “The family has been relentless in generating interest for people to keep coming up...My heart goes out to them.” While concerns were raised that the amount of volunteers searching could have made KSAR’s work more difficult, Hobler said in this case it was “perfectly fine” and no areas were contaminated. Even as the circumstances around Ryan’s disappearance have been widely shared by national, provincial and regional media and a massive social media campaign, there have been no

Inspirational gifts made for the family hang in the command centre. | PHOTO SPIN

physical tips or evidence to point them another direction or another location, according to the family. The RCMP investigation remains ongoing with no new information released by police. Heather kept her promise to go home for her eldest daughter Jordyn’s birthday in early June and Scott returned a few days after. They were back in the resort the first week of June

with plans to leave around Father’s Day. Commitments will then keep them in Beaumont, Alta. until the end of July. “We’ll be back at the end of July, then again in August, September, October, until the snow falls. Then we will be back when it melts. “Our searches will still happen but more remote. I know people here in Sun Peaks will continue (to search) and

the connections we’ve made outside of that.” Ryan was last seen wearing grey pants, a grey and white shirt, a burgundy hat, a navy coat and sand coloured vans. Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers. A $15,000 award from the family for information leading to their son’s whereabouts is being offered.

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COMMUNITY Sometimes thinking outside our boundaries is a good thing MEL ROTHENBURGER TNRD REPORT

COLUMNIST VIEWS

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.

“EVERYBODY WINS WHEN WE WORK TOGETHER.” The recent ofﬁcial opening of the Isobel Lake Low Mobility Trail brought to mind the fact that “local” is often not easy to deﬁne. This wonderful new trail, a project of the Kamloops Thompson Trails Alliance, is located just past the McQueen Lake Environmental Centre, which is reached by driving through Batchelor Hills and continuing north on Lac du Bois Road. The lake is located in Electoral Area J, which is represented on the Thompson-Nicola Regional District board by Director Ronaye Elliott. When Trails Alliance reps came to a meeting of the

electoral area directors two years ago seeking financial assistance for upgrades to the trail, committee members were impressed with the project. It’s one of very few trails in B.C. designed for people with limitations on their mobility. It’s level all the way— there aren’t any steps to impede walkers or those in wheelchairs. Though those who live closest will get the most immediate benefit, it’s the kind of trail (there’s a BC Parks campground at the site as well) that people from all over can drive to and make a day of. After discussion among ourselves, six electoral area directors decided to team up and contribute some of their gas tax allotment toward the trail, totaling $24,000. At the official opening, I had the honour of representing the TNRD and the six directors who contributed. While our Electoral Area P is close, some of the directors represent areas at some distance, such as the Spences Bridge and Blue River areas. (I should mention all the di-

rectors involved: aside from Director Elliott and me, there are Steven Rice of Area I, Willow McDonald of Area B, Bill Kershaw of Area O and Ken Gillis of Area L.) My point in mentioning this is there’s a natural tendency for directors to be protective of funding for their own electoral areas, but sometimes we have to look beyond our local boundaries and consider the beneﬁts to a wider area. Similarly, when various other groups come to the electoral area directors or the board for ﬁnancial help, we have to think carefully about whether their projects are actually relevant to the TNRD at all. One example of that is arts groups that now know they have to demonstrate a regional audience for themselves before they can expect funding assistance. Here’s another good example of thinking outside the boundaries, one that I’ve mentioned before. I received approval from the board some time ago to contribute $117,000 in gas tax fund-

Isobel Lake’s accessible trail makes the outdoors available to all. | PHOTO SUPPLIED

ing from the Area P allotment toward the Sun Peaks Medical Centre. Obviously the medical centre is outside Area P, but it’s right next door and is a great beneﬁt to Area P residents, especially those in the Hefﬂey area. One more endeavor in which it makes sense for various areas to work together is tourism. I’ve been involved in discussions between the Lower North Thompson Tourism Society and Tourism Kamloops on ways to get

more bang for the buck by teaming up on promotions. The whole premise of that discussion is that tourists don’t recognize boundaries and go where the experiences are. Everybody wins when we work together. Obviously, certain services speciﬁc to one community should be the responsibility of that community (and I’m a believer in that principle), but these examples show there are times when it’s better not to be too narrow in our deﬁnition of “local.”

Immerse yourself in Indigenous culture this summer RON BETTS Resident Ski Writer ron@sunpeaksnews.com

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

It’s difﬁcult to pinpoint the exact moment I went from calling Cape Breton home, to proudly answering “Kamloops” when asked where I’m from. Anyone from the Maritimes will tell you that home will always be the East Coast, despite that I’ve come to love the Thompson Okanagan just as much as my island birthplace. There are many advantages to being brought up in Cape Breton and many lessons that have remained with me. One of the most powerful is the strength of

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cultural identity that comes from the area’s Scottish heritage; I heard a saying once that there are only two kinds of people in the world, those who are Scottish and those who want to be. While that might not be entirely true, what is undeniable is that underlying feeling of pride that comes whenever I hear a ﬁddle tune, a Maritime artist on the radio, or I meet someone with the unmistakable accent of an East Coaster. It’s that lens of pride of place that makes me equally proud of the culture in and around Kamloops. In 2016, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association launched an Indigenous Tourism initiative, the goal of which is to embrace the history, culture, belief systems and stories of the many First Nations communities throughout the region and to create economic op-

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portunities in a meaningful, respectful and authentic way. In 2014, I was living in New Zealand and saw ﬁrst-hand the impact cultural tourism can have on a people. I was also moved by the way Maori culture was presented with immense pride to travellers. Recently, I took part in a tourism industry familiarization tour. These tours are designed to highlight the things an area has to offer and showcase what makes the area attractive to visitors. One of the special activities on the tour was a canoe trip with Tanner Quanstrom, the cultural co-ordinator at Quaaout Lodge near Chase, B.C. The lodge, located on the shore of Little Shuswap Lake on traditional Secwepemc territory, is operated by the Little Shuswap Lake Indian Band. Through their cul-

tural program, they have been innovative in sharing the Secwepemc culture and way of life with visitors from around the world. To better understand the challenges and successes that are happening, I visited the Secwepemc Museum on the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc Indian Band. There, I spoke with a very proud and knowledgeable young woman and while the bulk of our conversation won’t fit in this column, what struck me was that some of the historical injustices inflicted upon the people who were first here came from the naïve approach that they needed to be taught, instead of being viewed as a people we could learn from. Of course, this is an incredibly understated and simplistic representation of what was done to their culture and way of life, but it has

compelled me to try to learn and understand more about my friends and neighbours. While none of this makes me an expert on Secwepemc culture or cultural tourism, it has made me look at what’s happening locally with admiration. In the spirit of learning, there are many ways to embrace the cultural history and richness of the region. If you’ve never taken in a traditional powwow, make the Neskonlith Powwow (June 29 to July 1) or the Kamloopa Powwow (August 3 to 5) part of your summer plans. Visit the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park or check out Indigenous People’s Day on June 21 at Quaaout Lodge. Each of these events will deepen your appreciation for how diverse our area is and how lucky we are to share it with one another.

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GET OUT THERE Hiking the Isobel Lake Trail

The Isobel Lake trail is now accessible to all who wish to take in the natural beauty. | PHOTO HIKE KAMLOOPS

HIKEKAMLOOPS.COM @hikekamloops

WITH THE RECENT GRAND REOPENING OF THE ISOBEL LAKE Interpretive trail as a multiuse, wheelchair and mobility accessible trail, we wanted to share the specifics so you can get out and check out this wonderful trail!

TRAIL NAME: ISOBEL LAKE DISTANCE: 3.2 KM TIME: 1 HR DIFFICULTY: EASIEST CELL SERVICE: NO TRAIL: RELATIVELY FLAT, WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS: Gorgeous lakeside, wheelchair accessible wilderness loop that features an interpretive trail. There is also a fishing

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wharf to access the rainbow trout stocked lake. TO GET THERE: Isobel lake is about a 40 minute drive from downtown Kamloops. From downtown, head through the North Shore to the Batchelor Hills neighbourhood. Follow Batchelor Hills Dr. through the residential area. This road turns into Lac Du Bois Rd. at the cattle guard. Continue on Lac Du Bois Rd. for 15.5 km. Turn Right on McQueenIsobel Lake Rd. Keep to the left when the road forks roughly 1.6 km in. The parking lot is not too much further in. The parking area is easy to spot as it’s a large open space with a few billboards that provide information about the trail. As you enter the large parking area, on the right, there’s the hike up to Eagle Eye Lookout (a short 1.3 km round trip climb to an old lookout tower), and on the left, there are washrooms and two trail heads. Follow the wheelchair signs through the forest as they head towards the lake. From here the trail is pretty straightforward and follows alongside the lakeshore. The Isobel Lake Interpretive

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trail was recently reopened on June 1 after the last of the upgrades to bring the trail up to today’s mobility standards were completed by the Kamloops-Thompson Trail Alliance. Over 15,000 volunteer hours as well as $80,000 was invested in upgrading the trail. The trail also now winds the whole way around the lake whereas before it only went part way. This trail is perfect for families, those with low mobility or who need to rest more often and pets. There are many nice places to stop and enjoy the lake view as well as a large covered picnic area, aptly named the Forest Inn, with fire pits for cooking. Isobel Lake is stocked with rainbow trout specifically for children and those with disabilities to fish. Be sure to pack accordingly to take advantage of these amenities. The Isobel Lake trail is a great year round trail where we’ve enjoyed hiking in the spring, summer, and fall and snowshoeing in the winter. If you have yet to check out this fantastic trail be sure to add it to your list of hikes to check out this year.

Save theDate 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament TOURNAMENT RATES (INCLUDES: GREEN FEES, SHARED CART, GIFT BAG, DINNER & DRINK TICKET)

$650 per foursome or $175 per player, plus taxes DINNER ONLY

$75 per person, plus taxes and gratuity Donations to BC Adaptive Snowsports gladly accepted Thank you for your support. Last year we raised more than $27,000 and to date the event has raised almost $63,000! We truly appreciate your contribution.

Friday, September 14, 2018 Sun Peaks Resort British Columbia HOSTED BY:

BENEFITING:

LOCATION:

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, please contact Renée Potvin at 778.538.1103 or golf4charity@sunpeaksgrand.com

GET OUT THERE Cycle touring: A different way to travel EMILY PERRINS WITHOUT DEPENDING ON DRY TRAILS or turning chairlifts, bicycle touring combines exercise, community and immersion in the outdoors in a way Sun Peaks locals would appreciate. For this reporter during the off season, the 2,700 kilometres from Abbotsford, B.C. to San Ysidro, Cali.—the Canadian border to Mexican border—proved cycle touring to be a mode of travel where the journey is certainly more memorable than the destination. To be sure, it took time for my muscles to adjust to the grind and for saddle soreness to wear off. So too, for my mind to build up sufficient stamina to endure the endless hours of scrutinising the pavement ahead for loose grit and surprise potholes before they became puncture fodder for my tires. Less-than-ideal weather, tendonitis, raccoon encounters and having greasy bike chain imprints repeatedly tattooed on my belongings made me question my choice. As did 18-wheeler trucks

and first-time RV drivers—not completely at ease with the width of their new rentals—that jostled for space in the bike lane along narrow and winding highways. But the self sufficient, minimalist lifestyle of living out of a tent and panniers was satisfying. The long distance pedaling rewarded me not only with tighter glutes, but also a deeper appreciation for how the landscape, climate and culture evolved along the route than if it had sped past me through a car window. My caloric needs increased tenfold, so any time that wasn’t spent cycling I was eating as much as I wanted, a definite highlight. And I was introduced to the subculture of cycle tourists who exist, comprised of people from all walks of life. Along my route there was a young professional who had left a high-intensity job to retreat up the coast for some quiet solitude, a retired couple touring on a tandem bike, a woman pedaling away her heartbreak, and a pair of competitive Germans who raced me 140 km to San Francisco. These strangers were from all over the world with a common-

Taking the transportation less travelled proved to be rewarding during Emily Perrin’s trip. | PHOTO SUPPLIED

ality, swapping stories and route tips in whispers that travelled up and down the coastline as we did, coalescing at campsites or on the road. Thanks to this collaboration I avoided a two day detour around a highway closure on the California coast that would have meant missing some of the most stunning scenery of the trip. I was

assured by fellow cyclists that the landslide debris blocking the road extended only 150 metres, not so far a distance that a bicycle couldn’t be carried over, but only once the construction workers had left for the day. Everything went smoothly and for the next 10 km the now-paved, but stillclosed, road through big sky, big mountain coastline was all mine

to soak up. I was sad for the tour to end. My arrival at the Mexican border was anticlimactic; it was just the end of the road. I imagine Sun Peaks riders can relate; no one relishes the ride for the chairlift line that awaits them at the bottom. It’s the journey down the trail, curving and evolving that generates the thrill and satisfaction, after all.

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EVENTS Get patriotic this Canada Day JEAN STRONG AFTER LAST YEAR’S SUCCESSFUL CANADA DAY WEEKEND FESTIVITIES, Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP) is planning another patriotic event. Events manager for TSP, Janice Hoppenreys, said she expected to see more than 6,500 people attend. She said last year good weather on the mountain encouraged guests to escape smoke from wildfires that settled in Kamloops. The kid’s bike parade was particularly popular, she said, and will return this year.

Also planned for this year is another stage for live music at the Clocktower in addition to a concert by Big Sugar and music at the Upper Plaza Stage. Canadian personality and Squamish native Ryan Cook from HGTV’s “Carver Kings” will be featured alongside the Laughing Loggers. The Big Little Science Centre, based in Kamloops, will also add an interactive science booth with hands on experiments on the Saturday. Events and performances from last year like clowns, art tables, pony rides, Lobster Fest and a Canada Day cake are also on deck. Guests celebrate Canada Day in Sun Peaks. | FILE PHOTO

EVENT > listings SATURDAY

FRIDAY TO SUNDAY

5K FOAM FEST

MOUNTAIN SPIRIT FESTIVAL

JUNE 16

JUNE 22-24

Get slippery, muddy and soaked at this annual fun run event. Ages eight and up can tackle the obstacles on the mountain course before being rewarded with snacks at the finish line.

Centre yourself and come away refreshed at the second annual Mountain Spirit Festival. Yoga, speakers, workshops and yummy meals combine to make the perfect wellness weekend.

info@5kfoamfest.ca

info@interiorwellness.com

SUNDAY

SATURDAY

SUN PEAKS MARKET DAY

LIFT AND A LAGER

JUNE 17

The first Market Day of the season! Shop from local vendors, artists and farmers. Listen to live music from Margit Sky Project and learn from an educational speaker. Market runs 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 250 578 5386

JUNE 23

Relax in the newly renovated Sunburst Lodge with a free Granville Island Brewing beer if you have a lift ticket. The event tuns from noon to 6 p.m. and a D.J. will keep the party going. 250 578 5474

SUNDAYS

SATURDAY

GROUP TRAIL RUN

NANCY GREENE’S LITTLE BIG GOLF CHALLENGE

JUNE 17, 24 & JULY 1, 8 All abilities welcome for this free group run. Departs Black Beaver Athletic at 9 a.m. 250 571 2733

FRIDAY TO SUNDAY

JUNE 22-24

OPENING WEEKEND

What we’ve all been waiting impatiently for! The Sunburst lift will start turning on the 22 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Head up to access mountain biking and hiking or to enjoy a drink at the Sunburst Lodge. 250 578 5474

sunpeaksnews.com

JUNE 23

traditional Chinese medicine from educational speaker Mike Lang. Market runs 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 250 578 5386

SATURDAY

JUNE 30

MOUNTAIN OF BEER AND CHILI COOK-OFF One of the yummiest events of the year returns Canada Day weekend! Sample chili from village restaruants alongside beers from fantastic breweries. At the end cast your vote to decide restaurant will take home the trophy! 250 578 5399

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250 578 5386

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

JULY 7 & 8

BC DOWNHILL CHAMPIONSHIPS AND BC CUP

250 578 5442

A kid’s zone runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the upper village, pony rides are on site, the Laughing Loggers with Ryan Cook perform from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sundance Lift. There is also live music, clowns, art and Big Sugar performs slopeside at 7 p.m. reception@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

CANADA DAY FESTIVITIES

Shop from local vendors, artists and farmers. Listen to live music from Lowell Friesen and learn about

Shop from local vendors, artists and farmers. Listen to live music and learn about neuronutrition from educational speaker Kelly Aiello. Market runs 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

CANADA DAY WEEKEND EVENTS

JUNE 30

250 578 5431

SUN PEAKS MARKET DAY

Racers take on a top to bottom course featuring Insanity One and Honey Drop. Register to show your skill or watch the riders fly by.

SUNDAY

JUNE 24

JULY 1

SATURDAY

Get the family out golfing for the day! Nine holes of golf and sport challenges followed by a tasty dinner, silent auction and prizes. All proceeds are donated to the Sun Peaks Secondary Academy and Sun Peaks Elementary.

SUNDAY

JULY 1

The popular Kid’s Bike Parade leaves the upper village at 10 a.m., or check out the Laughing Loggers with Ryan Cook from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sundance Lift. A birthday cake will be cut for Canada at noon. More events take place throughout the day! 250 578 5388

SUNDAY

JULY 8

SUN PEAKS MARKET DAY

Shop from local vendors, artists and farmers. Listen to live music from Madison Bell and Richard Tichelman and learn about concussions from educational speaker Sonya Trevisi. Market runs 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 250 578 5386

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS

EMAIL PHOTOS TO

EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM

IN PHOTOS Fire Engine #2 near Whitecroft after training exercises.

Sun Peaks Fire and Rescue completes wildland fire training.

- PHOTO JAMIE VEILLETTE

- PHOTO SPIN

Winners of the annual Skate Sun Peaks event pose with their boards and swag. - PHOTO SPIN

ABOVE Kamloops Longboard Club vice

RIGHT It’s Junuary in Sun Peaks.

- PHOTO SPIN

president William Chung takes on the course during Saturday’s free ride.

Residents saw snow on mountaintops on June 11.

LEFT Taking in the views from Mt.

Embleton.

- PHOTO MARIA DAVIS

BELOW Heffley Lake on May Long

weekend.

- PHOTO SPIN

Luscious landscapes in May were abundant around the resort. - PHOTO SPIN

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MOUNTAIN NEWS Mountain Town News ALLEN BEST ALLEN.BEST@COMCAST.NET MOUNTAINTOWNNEWS.NET

Surprised mama grizzly will naturally be a bit defensive BANFF, Alberta If not for bears, it’s a wonder what kind of news there would be in Banff. The Rocky Mountain Outlook reported a lone hiker had a lucky escape after he surprised a female grizzly bear and her cub along a shoreline trail in Banff National Park. The cub dashed across the trail, followed quickly by the sow, who charged and took a swipe at the man’s backpack. “It was a classic surprise encounter,” explained Bill Hunt, resource conservation manager for Banff National Park. “A lone hiker, not great sight lines, and they caught each other by surprise. She reacted as a bear will, and once the surprise part was over, the bear disengaged.” At Canmore, at the entrance to Banff National Park, a curious black bear caused a stir after it nearly wandered into lodges. It was turned back by a second set of doors. A report on human-wildlife coexistence released recently had 28 recommendations about how to reduce the probability and severity of wildlife encounters in the busy and highly developed Bow Valley. The Outlook said many of the recommendations contained in the report have already been implemented to varying degrees. Ski towns figuring out whether e-bikes belong on trails SNOWMASS VILLAGE, Colo. Officials in Snowmass Village have decided to allow the lower-powered versions of e-bikes for use on paved trails in the town. This decision follows adoption of a similar policy by Pitkin County. Pitkin County commissioners, reported the Aspen Daily News, ended their prohibition on e-bikes last month on a section of a major trail along the Roaring Fork River that had been in place since 2011. Other prohibitions on

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county trails were also lifted. Colorado law recognizes three classes of e-bikes and allows the lesser-powered e-bikes on bike and pedestrian paths, unless local jurisdictions specify different restrictions. In Wyoming, Jackson Hole is debating the virtues of e-bikes. The Jackson Town Council and Teton County Board Commissioners overwhelmingly supported allowing e-bikes on town and county paths last December. But a small cohort of the local community has pushed back, saying e-bikes are capable of traveling 28 mph and hence incompatible with non-motorized uses. The Jackson Hole News&Guide said Wyoming law leaves e-bikes in a gray area, forcing towns and counties to navigate while determining how best to handle the trendy form of transportation. The town and county officials decided not to specify speed limits of e-bikes, because of the challenge of enforcing it. However, they reserved the right to do so at any time. A smoky week in San Juans as fire inevitably seizes its chance DURANGO, Colo. Compared to a fire 16 years ago, the fire underway in southwest Colorado near the Purgatory ski area as of June 12 was still much smaller, 8,955 hectares. The Missionary Ridge Fire, across the Animas River Valley, burned about 31,970 hectares before it was finally quelled after weeks of burning in 2002. Still, this fire has been big enough to send smoke billowing into the sky and to force the evacuation of more than 2,000 homes, including housing associated with the Purgatory ski area 27 miles north of Durango. Seven helicopters were enlisted to aid the 813 firefighters on the scene. “Although smaller than the Missionary Ridge, this one is almost worse, due to the number of houses involved, and that it has shut down the train, Highway 550, the resort and the entire San Juan National Forest,” reported Missy Votel, editor of the Durango Telegraph.

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

“It’s smokier than a Las Vegas lounge right now.” Firefighters expect a slog, their spokesman told the Durango Herald, called a “long duration event.” On Monday, the entire San Juan National Forest of southwestern Colorado was closed to public access, a reflection of the tinder-dryness of the vegetation. Even in May, 2X4s in local lumber yards had more moisture in them than trees standing in local forests. This is the first time since 2002 that a national forest has been closed in Colorado and the first time ever for the San Juan. The fire was not a shock. People in northern New Mexico and southwestern Colorado have been dreading a long, hot summer after a low-snow winter. The Natural Resource Conservation Service said the water year—not the same as a calendar year—in southwestern Colorado is only marginally better than the driest year on record (2002). Another fire, called Burro, was flaring 10 miles to the west. And elsewhere in Colorado, a blaze in the pine-juniper-and-sagebrush country about 15 miles west of Vail captured at least local attention while closing the highway between Vail and Steamboat Springs. Even in areas that got more snow, people were taking precautions. In Red Cliff, a town of 300 people in a tree-lined bowl near Vail, one homeowner removed flammable vegetation from around his house and prepared to put metal siding on a wooden outbuilding. In nearby Summit County, county commissioners from across Colorado gathered to talk about wildfire threats. A focus was on what is called the wildland-urban interface. One take-away from the meeting, reported the Summit Daily News, is that more and more people will be wanting to live in such dangerous areas. The state’s population, now at nearly 5.7 million, is expected to grow to 9 or 10 million in the next three decades. Logan Sand, a state official, said a third of Colorado’s population already lives in the wildland-urban interface, “and that’s going to continue increasing for the

next 30 years or so.” Along the shores of Lake Tahoe, which is split by California and Nevada, a similar discussion has been underway. “It’s not a matter of getting better at firefighting; it’s now a matter of too much stuff for fires to burn,” said Malcolm North, a forest ecologist with the U.S. Forest Service. “Despite costs to the federal government now above $3 billion annually of waging war on fire, it’s a failure. “We’re losing the forest fire battle. It’s not whether fire will occur, it’s when,” he told the Lake Tahoe News. “We have two choices. We can continue to deny that we can control fire, or we can get in front of it and learn how to be smarter when it comes to forest fires.” Like others, he blames clear-cutting during the early European settlement for creating even-stand forests. “Large, fire resistant trees were cut and ‘defect’ trees were eliminated,” he said. “But in actuality, these gnarled, crooked trees (defect trees) are the nexus for wildlife such as owls. That was not a good idea.” Then came many decades of fire suppression, not just in the Sierra Nevada but across the West. “Fire is actually essential in a forest,” he explained, as fire ecologists have said for decades. Eliminating periodic fires every 10 to 15 years has resulted in more powerful crown fires when the fires inevitably do occur. A typical healthy forest in the past supported about 64 trees per acre with a diameter of about 26 inches; now, there are about 320 trees on an acre with girths of 14 inches or so. What exactly drew Kanye West to Jackson Hole? JACKSON, Wyo. Kanye West flew in Chris Rock and 300 to 400 rap artists, models, actors, and other friends of the singer into Jackson for a release party of his new album. The release party received significant national attention. The unusualness of the setting may have had something to do with it. There was

a bonfire and the Tetons in the background. The Jackson Hole News&Guide explored what it called the “Kanye effect.” The most obvious question was how much all this publicity was worth for tourism promotion. By one off-hand estimate, it was worth as much as all the annual $1.6 million promotion budget for Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board. But Jonathan Schechter, an economist who operates a think tank in Jackson Hole, suggested the more interesting question was what attracted Kanye West to Jackson Hole in the first place. One possibility, Schechter said, was the relative naturalness of the environment. “The thing that distinguishes Jackson Hole and the Tetons region from basically every other major resort community is the quantity, quality and health of our ecosystem. So the question to Kanye would be: ‘Is that something that matters a lot to him? Or did he find other things that attracted him to this place?’”

WELCOMES PAMELA! Pamela is a Stylist and a Barber. Past clients save with Barber Pricing. 4-860 8th Street 250-376-7177 Mon-Wed 10-5pm Friday 10-6pm Saturday 1-6pm www.melonhairlounge.com

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June 2018 June 2018

SUDOKU

SUDOKU SUDOKU Difficulty: Easy Difficulty: Easy

Edited by Margie E. Burke Edited by Margie E. Burke

Edited by Margie E. Burke

2 2 9 HOW SOLVE: 9 TO HOW TO SOLVE: Each row must 9 49 4 Each row must contain the numbers the numbers 3 3 4 74 7 1 to 9;contain each column 1 to 9; each column

3 6 6 must contain the 8 82 2 must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and numbers 1 to 9; and of 3 by 3 6 6 7 7 9 9 each set each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain boxes must contain 9 9 3 23 2 8 the 1 to 9. 8numbers the numbers 1 to 9. 1 1 9 9 8 8 (Answer appears else(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue) can be Answers 3 3 1 1 where in this issue) 5 5 8 8 7 27 2 found in the next issue of SPIN

FOR RENT 4 BDRM / 3 BATH, 3,200 sq. ft. fully furnished ski in home on Fairways Drive. N/S, N/P, available 7/15/2018 for 1 YR lease. $3,500 + utilities. Option of 5 month seasonal rental November 15 – April 15 Solution to Sudoku: at $5,500 + utilities. Driveway Solution to Sudoku: snow clearance, TV, internet, phone, 4 8tub 7 maintenance 6 5 2 3 1 9 and hot Call (250) 434-4243 to arrange 4 8 7 6 5 2 3included. 1 9 2 interviews 1 7 9 4 8and 6 5 early 3July 3 2 1 7 9 4 showings. 8 6 5 5 6 9 1 3 8 4 7rent 2 on Fairways. Avail June 15 or July 1. 2 bedroom 5 suite 6 9 1for 3 8 4 7 2 9 2 4 1W/D 5 6 3 7N/S. N/P. $1500 incl heat, hot water, elec. Fully 8furnished. 8 9 2 4 1incl. 5 6 3 7 5 3 Call 8 2 7 1 9 4 1 pkg6spot. 6 5 3778-580-8275. 8 2 7 1 9 4 1 7 4 9 6 3 2 5 8 1 7 in 4 New 9 6 Zealand 3 2 5 8 and have spent ten days each of the We are based 7 1 6 2 4 9 5 8 3 7 1 6skiing 2 4 in 9 Canada 5 8 3 over December/January with our past few years 2 3 8 5 7 1 9 4 6 kids aged 92 and girl.) If you have an interest in coming 3 814. 5 7(Boy 1 9and 4 6 9 4 5 3 8 6 7 2 1 down this way, 9 4 5we3 are 8 6planning 7 2 1 ten days in Sun Peaks around late December-early January. We have a house in the inner city Auckland suburb of Herne Bay and one at Omaha beach an hour north of the city. Links follow to give you a feel for the areas. https://rwponsonby.co.nz/auckland/herne-bay/ , https://omahabeach.co.nz/, Please let us know whether you have an interest in exploring a house swap. desiree.tod@gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT Sun Peaks Lodge is hiring for now till October. All-rounder for Housekeeping/Breakfast Service/Laundry/Bags. Email resume to info@sunpeakslodge.com.

WANTED Retired couple looking to rent a two bedroom condo with hot tub for the 2018/19 ski season. Or, if you are wanting to get away from the snow, we could possibly do a house swap with our waterside property on Salt Spring Island. Please email us at janepoulston@ gmail.com or call our cell phone 1 250 537 6155. Thanks.

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June 2018

SOLVE THIS CROSSWORD Edited by Margie E. Burke

Crossword ACROSS 1 It's a piece of cake 6 Checked item 10 Little bouquet 14 Kind of paint 15 Cathedral recess 16 Not deceived by 17 Concerning 18 Garden tool 19 Techie, stereotypically 20 Statue, perhaps 22 Predicament 24 Target of a joke 25 Photo session 26 Current location? 29 Fellow crew member 32 Speak from a soapbox 33 Tinkerbell, e.g. 34 Stroller rider 35 Grimm villain 36 Boast about 37 ____ and kin 38 Grafton of mystery 39 "Goodness gracious!" 40 Small part 41 Inclination 43 Solitary sorts 44 Baseball deal 45 Chinese mafia 46 How long one might stay 48 Captains of industry 52 Cage on a farm 53 Big fat mouth 55 Grind down 56 Basketball goal

by Margie E. Burke 1

24 26

SUDOKU ANSWERS V15I15

40 43

42 44

CROSSWORD ANSWERS V15I15

57 58 59 60

Scrabble draw Infant's woe Circular current Awfully long time 61 Sings the praises of DOWN 1 Insult, slangily 2 Country road 3 Agenda listing 4 Monk 5 Squeeze out 6 Diamond measure 7 Translucent gem 8 "Fire away!" 9 Travel souvenir

10 Organized massacre 11 In an orderly way 12 Dance instructor's call 13 Oxen's harness 21 "___ now or never" 23 Kind of cat? 25 Like a new penny 26 Fowl place 27 Lock horns 28 1989 Steve Martin film 29 Impertinent 30 Bag carrier 31 Cultural values

33 Ludicrous situation 36 Blood feud 37 Aussie hopper 39 Diner offering 40 Get in touch 42 Overly sentimental 43 Nautical journal 45 Cassettes 46 Persistent pain 47 Carpenter's supply 48 Drone, e.g. 49 Fragrant resin 50 Cut, maybe 51 Parts of a min. 54 Fix, in a way

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Let us know! Send your thoughts to: editor@sunpeaksnews.com

or phone 250.578.0276

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>> SPORTS BC Downhill Championship set for July NIKKI FREDRIKSON THE ANNUAL BC CUP SERIES RACE is set to return July 7 and 8 giving riders the opportunity to also compete for the BC Downhill Championship title. Racers attending the event will earn points for the BC Cup Series and can enter the standalone provincial race for the chance take home the the provincial championship in their age category. To be eligible for the championship racers must have a Cycling BC License. “For the BC Cup there’s different categories and so there are one event licenses for unlicensed riders in the open categories. We always get quite a few sport riders,” explained event organizer

>> Black Beaver Athletic welcomes teens For the first time Black Beaver Athletic is offering a teen fitness program for ages 14 to 18. Previously only a preteen class was offered before joining the adult groups but owner Jase Petersen said

>> Sparring to success

Sun Peaks athletes have come away from the BC ITF Provincial Championships in Prince George with multiple medals.

Henry Pejril. What makes this competition unique is each racer, no matter their age and skill level, will compete on the same course. “Everybody does the same course so that’s one of the things you can always compare your times to the fastest because you’ve done the same course,” said Pejril. Racers will take on the technically challenging aspects of Insanity One and Honey Drop winding down the same official race course as last year in Sun Peaks. “Speed really doesn’t gauge a rider’s abilities at all, then it just comes down to how willing you are to let go of that brake handle. I think the technical courses you’ll find that there’s quite a bit more of a disparity between the riders

times just because talent does win out in those type of races,” he said. Last year the event saw lower registration numbers due to the wildfire season but Pejril is optimistic they will have their usual 300 competitors. Having been involved with races at Sun Peaks since 1996, Pejril has seen a shift in popularity of the sport among the age groups. “Back in the early days our numbers were in the senior categories whereas now a lot of our numbers are in the junior expert categories and the younger riders which is really good for the sport because it shows there’s a real uptake again with the younger guys,” he said. Competitors can pre-register for the event online or day of at the registration office.

Competitors will race on aspects of both Insanity One and Honey Drop. | PHOTO SPIN

he wanted to make space for those in between. The twice weekly class blends conditioning and Crossfit-style workouts and focuses on safe and strong technique. “I think it’s going to be a great complement. They’re active kids. The goal is to strengthen and prevent injury,” said Petersen. Classes will be largely led by new coach Katy Wyatt, who moved to the community in May 2017 from the

Lower Mainland. With a background in personal training and coaching hockey and ringette, Wyatt fits perfectly as a new Black Beaver coach. Her first projects were the creation and running of the Alpine Conditioning program three times a week and trail running group once weekly. Now she is excited to lead the youth of Sun Peaks in getting healthier. “Teens are rewarding, when they grasp a concept or seeing

them overcome a barrier is cool to watch,” she said. “Seeing them find something they love and finding their cools through sports and fitness is fun to watch.” Petersen said in the future he would like to have more classes for different age groups, bridging the gap from eight years old to adult. The teen program currently has limited spaces available. For more information visit blackbeavercrossfit.com

The Northern Taekowndo Academy attended the event on May 19 to compete against more than 200 competitors from B.C. and Alberta. In sparring Robin Kierstad and Blake Morris took home bronze medals, Lori Mclean, Ava Dye and Anika Roberts won silver, and Morgan Franklin

took gold. In pattern Kierstad won bronze, Dye and Olivia Dye won silver and Mclean took gold. “I’m very humbled and very proud of what we’ve accomplished in becoming a well established sporting presence in Sun Peaks,” said Ryan Oevermann, chief instructor of

the academy. He added the number of children enrolled nearly doubled this year and more new students have already registered for autumn. In order for the students to better represent the group, new school jackets were added.

Jase Petersen and Katy Wyatt teach a teen class at Black Beaver Athletic. | PHOTO SPIN.

Sun Peaks’ athletes comepeted against others from B.C. and Alberta. | PHOTO SPIN.

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

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>> SPORTS An all women mountain bike crew DIRT CHIX KAMLOOPS BUILDS THE SPORT OF MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR 12 YEARS

A group of over 30 women ready to head out on their group ride at the Pineview trail network in Kamloops. | PHOTO SPIN

NIKKI FREDRIKSON LOOKING FOR A GROUP OF PASSIONATE MOUNTAIN BIKERS in her area, Kamloops resident Jen Stewart turned to Dirt Chix Kamloops to support her in her own riding goals. The now second-year Dirt Chix member and trail host still remembers her first ride with the all-women mountain bike group last summer after the trails reopened from the wildfire season. “Everyone was so excited because we were actually riding after the smoke cleared and the trails were open,” she said. “It was a pretty big group we were riding in Bachelor. We all got out and rode as a big group together. Everyone was laughing, happy and just really excited to be on our bikes on the trail.” Her passion and fitness goals made becoming a trail host a natural transition and allowed her to support the other women in the group in their own goals

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by leading them through the weekly ride. “What I always say about this group is there’s no such thing as ‘I’m sorry.’ You don’t have to say sorry because you can’t ride up a hill; you don’t have to say sorry because you’re nervous about riding something,” said Stewart. “We all just want to come out and have fun and support one another. If you are at the bottom of the trail and have a smile on your face at the end of the ride that’s the most important thing.” The community group meets weekly as a way for women interested in mountain biking to get involved in the sport, meet like-minded individuals and hold each other accountable. The group formed 12 years ago after four friends with kids all under the age of 10 years old were struggling to balance family life and getting out on the trails each each week. The foursome committed to holding each other accountable by meeting Thursday nights and called their group the Dirt Chix. “Just having three other peo-

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

ple waiting for you was enough incentive to get yourself out the door. Pretty soon our families all bought in and they scheduled things around our Thursday night rides,” said founding member Dana Heyman. After getting jerseys made more riders out on the trails stopped and asked them about their group. They soon found themselves adding more members. “We started taking on one, two, three (riders) and today our mailing list is at about 120,” said Heyman. “In the spring when people are really keen we get about up to 60 people but our average is probably 30 on any given Thursday.” The group charges a $25 registration fee that is donated back to the mountain biking community for trail maintenance. “For years we didn’t charge anything but then a lot of people would sign up and then the email (list) would grow and roll over every year. We wanted to make sure our members were pretty engaged for that year, so

we’re not carrying people who have moved away three years ago,” explained Heyman. “We thought a small fee would make people a little bit more accountable to the group and to make sure you’re not going to join if you’re never going to ride with us.” To ensure member commute times are equal the group rotates which biking system throughout Kamloops they’ll ride. “I think we’re very fortunate in Kamloops we have so many options and with the Dirt Chix we try and go to different areas every week,” said founding member Sheena Motokado. “Often the second time around you see so much improvement especially in the beginner group. All the trails I’d have to say are fantastic.” Depending on the number of riders who come out they often break up the rides into advanced groups, yellow (medium riders) and red (beginner) groups. “Every night Dana will divide the groups. There’s a leader

and a sweep. That’s a person that stays at the back so we don’t lose anybody on the ride ever,” said founding member Debbie Marasco. “When we have this larger group incorporated then there’s smaller groups to accommodate all the different levels of riding.” Heyman, Marasco and Motokado have been riding together for 12 years and have similar likes in trails but each has different favourites. For Heyman it’s the Pineview trail network, for Marasco it’s the 10 kilometre uphill climb in the Harper trail system and Motokado is currently enjoying the Juniper trails. “We have so much riding close to our doors we get spoiled down here,” said Heyman. The trio of founders said they always welcome new members and they’d love to have more members from Sun Peaks, adding they’d like to swap trail information. To learn more about how you can get involved in Dirt Chix Kamloops visit dirtchix.weebly.com.

>> SPORTS SPAC welcomes new program director NIKKI FREDRIKSON SUN PEAKS ALPINE CLUB’S NEW PROGRAM DIRECTOR WADE RETTIE is bringing a wealth of knowledge to the program with experience coaching alpine racers from as young as four years old all the way to masters for the past 38 years. Most recently he was an FIS coach in Banff, Alta. “A past racer, he also has over 20 years of coaching experience at various levels and is a Level 3 coach. We are looking forward to working with Wade and benefiting from his experience,” the Sun Peaks Alpine Club board of directors wrote in a statement sent to SPIN. Despite his years of experience Rettie doesn’t anticipate

he’ll take on a coaching role right away. “I’m going to be focused mainly on the program and trying to maintain the high standard that they’ve created. Hopefully, I get to do some coaching but I wouldn’t be so brash and say that I can right now,” he said. Rettie replaced former program director and coach Montana Molyneux and said he plans to continue her work of getting more athletes competing. “I believe that competition is something that can benefit everyone. Whether your goal is to win, finish, improve your time difference to the leader, or to prove yourself that you can challenge a hill that seems overwhelming, competition is healthy,” he said. “As for orga-

nized competition, I think that is a focus that will be continued and structured to meet everyone’s needs.” Coming into a new program, Rettie said his greatest strengths have been facilitating an environment for all to take advantage of regardless of their goals. “By being open with the athletes and coaches about the goals and focuses for the day I have had some great success and buy into programming in the past,” he said. Rettie said he would like to keep the club’s momentum headed into next season. “I am really looking forward to meeting all the folks that make a strong club and continuing with the progress that has been made in the past,” he said.

Wade Rettie has been named the new program director for the Sun Peaks Racers. | PHOTO SUPPLIED

Nearing an elite class of professional drivers RACIN’ JASON WHITE’S PUSH TO 100 RACES NIKKI FREDRIKSON RACIN’ JASON WHITE IS BACK AT IT, working to hit his goal of 100 races in the NASCAR Canada Series. With 91 races completed through his career, White said the accomplishment would put him in an elite class of drivers with approximately six other racers who have reached the milestone. “For being a driver out of the West Coast where 90 per cent of the races and the action is on the East Coast is quite a big deal and quite an honour to be recognized to have so many races under my belt,” said White. The 25-year-Sun Peaks resident kicked off his racing season May 20 with a 15th place finish in Bowmanville, Ont. “The first race didn’t go great mechanically but I felt really good in the car. I feel like I’m going to be on my

game better than I have been for a long time driving-wise,” he said. Committing to six races in the NASCAR Pinty series, White is looking forward to redeeming himself at the June 16 race in Hamilton, Ont. Racing in both traditional oval track and road course races, he said he was most looking forward to getting out on the newly refurbished Jukasa Motor Speedway, in Ontario. “It’s just a beautiful facility that I’m really really looking forward to. It’s a very fast track, it’s 5/8th of a mile so we’re going to be going upward of 140 miles an hour down the back straightaways,” said White. “It’s an oval so there’s lots going on in a hurry.” Having dedicated his offseason to staying in good physical form, White is looking to finish each and every race this season, which is no easy feat in the racing world.

Jason White racing on May 20 with Kamloops Rugby Club decals to celebrate the clubs 50th anniversary. | PHOTO RYAN DUPONT

“In the NASCAR series sometimes it’s very difficult to even finish races. We want to make sure that we’re going to be here at the end to finish races and we’re going to look for hopefully being in top 10 and maybe even some top fives,” said White. “Just being

in a position to win. If we can put ourselves in a position to be there at the end sometimes things happen where you can get a win out of the deal.” With years of experience under his belt White said it’s his fans and representing his sponsors that keeps him

coming back year after year. “They say once it’s in your blood you can’t get it out and it’s been in my blood since the day I was born,” said White. Next up for Racin’ Jason White is July 14 at the Exhibition Place Toronto, Ont. racing through the city .

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

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>> SPORTS Raising funds for mental health DUNCAN KILBA ROAD CREW AIMS FOR $2,000 NIKKI FREDRIKSON “I REALLY WANTED TO BE AN EXAMPLE FOR PEOPLE. That putting myself through an 88 kilometre ride is nothing compared to families who have had loved ones who they’ve lost. Nothing that I can withstand during the ride could be as painful as losing a family (member) or friend,” said Leah Assue, Duncan Kilba Road Crew member. Preparing to bike the long stretch of road from Centennial Park in Kamloops, B.C. to the McLure Ferry and back, Assue, along with three other team members, will participate in the Ride Don’t Hide event on June 24 in support of ending the stigma around mental health. “It doesn’t matter who you

“THE MONEY IN OUR COMMUNITY THAT’S RAISED STAYS IN OUR COMMUNITY.” are. We are all affected by our mental health whether it’s directly or indirectly we are all affected by it. We’re just trying to help bring awareness and help support those people who are going through tough times,” said Assue. The Duncan Kilba Road Crew was formed in 2017 in tribute to Duncan Kilba, a Kamloops Secondary Student and Whitecroft resident, who died by suicide in March of that year. Assue, who had heard about the Ride Don’t Hide event through work, wanted to

dedicate her ride to Kilba and show support for her stepson Cody who was a friend of his. “When this happened with him I saw what happened to Cody and how it just destroyed him and his friends, just devastated them,” she said. “I thought there’s got to be something that can be done to help. It’s never going to take the mental health illnesses away but at least it can help support and get the word out there.” The annual event is the largest mental health bike ride in Canada. Money

raised goes towards mental health services in each community that participates. “The money in our community that’s raised stays in our community, so it will help our people in our own community access services and programs to help make mentally healthy people and

I don’t think a lot of people know that,” said Assue. This year the Crew’s fundraising goal is $2,000. Donations are being accepted online at ridedonthide.com or through the team’s Facebook page Ride Don’t Hide - Duncan Kilba Road Crew.

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Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12

TELUS PureFibre is coming. TELUS PureFibre has reimagined the Internet experience as we know it and it’s coming to Heffley Lake, Little Heffley Lake, Whitecroft and Sun Peaks. Soon, you’ll be able to upload, download, browse and stream with lightning-fast speeds. TM

Get ready for:

• The #1 Internet technology for speed and reliability* • Enjoy full speed with multiple devices: Never slow down, even when everyone’s connecting • Optik TV 4K content, with 4 times the resolution of HD ®

†

Learn more at telus.com/kamloops

* Traditional copper wire or copper wire hybrid networks are subject to capacity constraints and environmental stresses that do not affect TELUS fibre optic technology, which is based on light signals. Not available in all areas. † 4K television required to watch 4K. Optik 4K PVR and Internet 50 or above required to watch 4K on Optik. Minimum system requirements apply. Subscription to corresponding channels required; not available with all channels. Final eligibility for the services will be determined by a TELUS representative. For more information please visit telus.com/4k. TELUS, the TELUS logo, TELUS PureFibre, Optik, Optik TV, telus.com and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. © 2018 TELUS. 18_00796

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#13 ALPINE GREENS | $289,900

2220 SUNBURST DRIVE | $889,000

Fantastic building lot on the upper road with mountain and valley views. This family friendly community of Whitecroft is just 5 minutes from Sun Peaks Resort, 5 minutes to pristine Heffley Lake and 35 minutes to Kamloops. The sloping 1.58 acre lot is partially cleared and requires minimal site preparation for your single family home. Close to crown land, lakes and hiking/biking trails with community water system, fire protection, high speed internet, cable, hydro and telephone services available. GST not applicable.

Ground level, bright and spacious 1 bed/1 bath condo fronting directly onto the 2nd fairway and Valley Trail. Sunny Golf Course location is beautiful in both summer and winter, with views of Mt. Morrisey and easy ski-in access via the street. Heated tile floors in kitchen and bathrooms, cozy wood burning fireplace with beautiful fieldstone and timber mantle, natural wood raised panel cabinetry, private patio and extra storage. Furnished and is available for quick occupancy. GST is not applicable

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

NEW LISTING

SOLD 101 FIRESIDE LODGE | $279,900

Immaculate one bedroom condo which has been completely renovated and is beautifully furnished with granite countertops, new appliances, lighting, flooring, custom cabinetry & built ins. Prime ski-in, ski-out access through the village & close proximity to restaurants and shopping, this cozy home offers everything you need! Heated underground parking and spacious storage room for skis and bikes. Zoning allows for short term rentals. Fully furnished with GST paid; available for immediate occupancy.

6421 UPPER LOUIS CREEK ROAD

| $629,000

Country home part of the original Whitecroft Ranch est. in the 1940’s. Two long-standing barns, rustic garage, and a couple of original small log buildings on the property. Main farm home features 6 beds and two baths, plus office area and grand entrance. Second dwelling on the acreage is a 2 bed. cabin. All 20 acres is useable land with plenty of forage and mature tees, partially fenced, abundant crystal clear water from a mountain side spring with water licence in place. Showings by appointment only.

23 MCGILLIVRAY CREEK | $729,900 Warm & inviting 3 bed plus den, 3 bath townhome located only a few steps to the Mt. Morrisey Chairlift overlooking the 17th fairway & little lake on the back nine of the Golf Course. Attractive end unit with creek setting & south facing sundeck where you can relax and unwind with family & friends. Large kitchen with heated tile floors opens up to a spacious dining area & cozy living room with natural river rock fireplace with timber mantle, and vaulted ceiling. Master bed located on the top floor with ensuite & private covered deck with beautiful mountain views. GST paid.

NEW LISTING

SOLD 215 COAST SUNDANCE LODGE | $30,000 This studio suite features an efficiency kitchen, offered fully furnished and sleeps 4 comfortably. Slope side accommodation makes this a great ski-in, ski-out location in the heart of Sun Peaks Resort! Outdoor hot tub as well as exercise room and secure underground parking provided. Owner’s personal use is a generous 180 days anytime during the year with rental management agreement in place with Coast Hotels. GST applies.

117/119 CAHILTY HOTEL & SUITES | $159,900 Fully furnished one bedroom lock-off suite offering some of the best ski-in/ski-out access, situated slope side directly on the ski run.Efficiency kitchen, brand new Murphy Bed, plus pull out sofa bed with full bath on one side and two queens with an additional full bath on the other side, conveniently sleeping 8. Unlimited owner use & professional in house management team this makes a great investment and family get-a-way.

26 SNOW CREEK VILLAGE | $539,900 Popular slopeside development - true ski-in, ski-out access adjacent to the Village and lifts. Fully furnished, warm and inviting 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom townhome is on three levels and offers heated tile floors, a bright open kitchen, dining and living area with cozy fireplace and private patio with hot tub backing onto forest. Sunny deck with BBQ and beautiful mountain views of Mt. Morrisey. Extra storage and private two car tandem garage, add’l surface parking available. GST is applicable.

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sunpeaksnews.com

Vol 16 Issue 6 June 15 — July 12