AUTUMN
Weather Forecast SEPT 29—OCT 18 Showers, sunny, cool
OCT 19—OCT 21 Snow showers
OCT 22—26
Volume 15 Issue 10 > SEPTEMBER 29 — OCTOBER 26
Sunny, rain and snow,cool
ENTRANCE ISSUES >> Page 2
JAMAICAN BEATS LAND IN KAMLOOPS
>> Municipality hears opinions at public meeting
>> Page 10
Gary Geissinger and Laura Dickinson proudly pose in the recently refurbished top unit of their property on Sunburst Drive where they hope to offer nightly guests an opportunity to enjoy the space and resort as they do themselves. | PHOTO SPIN
Community calls for balance regarding short-term rentals by SUN PEAKS NEWS
When Gary Geissinger and Laura Dickinson visited Sun Peaks from the Lower Mainland in February 2016 they fell in love with the resort and the community. So much so, they decided their long term goal was to retire in the mountain town. After purchasing a property on Fairways Dr. with family in Sept. 2016, and legally renting it out to visitors when they weren’t using it themselves, STREET
REZONED
they purchased their own investment property on Sunburst Dr. with the deposit accepted in May and possession on July 21. When they began the process of legally rezoning the property to allow short-term rentals, they were shocked to learn a moratorium had been issued by the municipality on July 4. “My jaw dropped,” said Gessinger, speaking from the recently refurbished kitchen. “I was in shock. What does this mean?” Like many properties in Sun
INSTREAM
TOTAL LOTS
PERCENT
FAIRWAYS
9
1
68
13
SUNBURST
9
3
38
23
LOOKOUT RIDGE
4
1
45
8
MOUNTAIN VIEW
2
1
45
4
SUNDANCE
8
0
50
16
Peaks, the house had been used as a short-term rental for years, operating in a grey area before the launch of “spot zoning” to RS-1A in 2014. The couple bought with the assumption that rezoning would be a simple matter of filing the correct paperwork and proving they met requirements. There was no reason to think otherwise as 40 applications had been processed so far, with 32 granted, six currently being processed and two granted temporary use permits. Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) said they issued the moratorium in response to a growing number of complaints regarding spot zoning and the process around it, stating it needed to be halted while a solution was found. “It became apparent to us it wasn’t working anymore,” said chief administrative officer Rob Bremner to a packed public
meeting on Sept. 16. Things have changed; the community’s population has almost doubled since 2012, meaning more neighbourhoods have larger numbers of permanent residents. At the same time, the number of tourists has also increased, creating a strain on existing housing inventory and exacerbating short-term rental issues as well as an employee housing crisis. People on both sides called for balance between the need for short-term rentals to fuel the village economy while not infringing on rights of residential owners. Geissinger and Dickinson were there to share their story. “I’m in a very uncertain financial situation,” he told the room, stating they had invested close to $1 million on their newest property and were now facing potential financial hardship. Among other voices, several property owners in Lookout Ridge raised a separate concern. They purchased lots in a residentially zoned area built for single family homes to be away from the busy tourist areas, but because of the spot zoning have had to deal with neighbouring short-term rentals and the issues that come along with them, such as noise and parking problems.
TIMELINE PRIOR 2010 | Short-term rentals existed with no enforced regulation. SPRING 2010 | Thompson Nicola Regional District sent cease and desist letter to those known to be renting short-term as their legal opinion was they were not permitted in residential zones. Letters were not enforced as the new municipality was set to be incorporated. JUNE 2010 | Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality was incorporated and inherited zoning jurisdiction. 2011 | An estimated 35 chalets rented short-term in Sun Peaks. 2011 TO 2013 | Municipality conducted approximately two years of public consultation. 2012 | SPMRM engaged Whistler Centre for Sustainability to research short-term rental options and produce a study. 2014 | Launched spot rezoning process based on ability for opinions to be brought forward on merits of each application. 2015 TO 2017 | Municipality heard and processed applications for 40 properties to be rezoned.
“(Under the current rules) all undeveloped land on Lookout Ridge could all be nightly rentals,” said property owner Maureen Walker. continued on next page
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
1
SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS INC.
LOCAL NEWS
102-3270 Creekside Way Sun Peaks, BC V0E 5N0
Phone: 250•578•0276 For comments, questions, concerns email: editor@sunpeaksnews.com Email your classifieds or ads to: editor@sunpeaksnews.com
www.sunpeaksnews.com @sunpeaksnews /sunpeaksnews sunpeaksnews @sunpeaksnews
#sunpeaksnews
OUR TEAM
EDITOR & PUBLISHER Brandi Schier
brandi@sunpeaksnews.com
CONTINUED FROM COVER
Statements from the public were heard for almost two hours, including from those in the hotel and tourism industry, who brought up issues of fair taxation and limited inventory. Mayor Al Raine said the meeting showed the need for tighter enforcement to noncomplying rentals, better communication with property owners and residents and casting a wider net for feedback when rezoning a property. “Council will be hard pressed to address all the issues,” he said. He also acknowledged they have seen positive results from when they first started regulation, including implementing business licence requirements and only allowing one suite per property to be rented nightly and the other to be rented or
Jen Schier
jen@sunpeaksnews.com
by JEAN STRONG
Jean Strong jean@sunpeaksnews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Aidan Grether Emily Perrins Allen Best
W
ith a new provincial government in power, Sun Peaks’ Mayor Al Raine isn’t headed to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) conference in Vancouver from Sept. 25 to 29 with lofty goals. “We’ve asked for a few appointments with the new government,” he said. “It’s a learning process for everyone. “Our number one goal is to make sure we intro-
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
>> New development hopes to echo success
Photo by SPIN
sunpeaksnews.com
They have spoken with their realtor and plan to submit an email to council with suggestions from researching best industry practices. “Hopefully we can find a solution that works for everyone,” said Dickinson, adding she felt the municipality has done well facing the challenging rate of growth in Sun Peaks. In the meantime they will wait with fingers crossed. If they aren’t able to supplement their mortgage payments with nightly rental income this winter, they will be forced to sell, even with renting out the lower unit long term. They will not only lose the property, but also their dream. “It’s our retirement plan,” said Geissinger. “It’s very difficult for many people to retire now. And we made a plan that was financially feasible and then this happened.”
duce Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality to the new ministers.” Raine said he and chief administrative officer Rob Bremner will meet with ministers for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Finance, Municipal Affairs and Housing, Education and Jobs, Trade and Technology. “RMI (Resort Municipality Initiative) meetings are especially important,” Raine said. “To chat with other communities and make sure we’re on the same page. And to raise
awareness of RMI to senior bureaucrats and ministers.” Sun Peaks depends on the RMI for funding of infrastructure and events like the summer concert series. The program is set to expire March 31, 2018 but Sun Peaks and other B.C. tourism-based municipalities have been working to extend it. Raine said he will attend events with the new NDP government as well as the BC Greens and BC Liberals to further relationships with all parties.
He said he is looking forward to new opportunities that may come with the new government. He pointed out the shared economy was included on their election platform and was hopeful new taxes would be applied to short-term rentals to make them equal to hotel taxes. “Business people get wary of NDP but if they are opposed to pipelines, Site C and mega projects, there is an opportunity for small businesses and tourism who are a relatively clean business.”
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
As the last unit in the new Village Walk development sold on Sept. 8 plans were already in motion for Sun
2
ly caught some people in limbo that were wanting to go that way (to rezone),” said Raine. “There are no guarantees that anyone is going to have short-term rental in the beginning,” he said. “People bought residential properties with no promise by anyone that they would become income properties. While it may negatively impact a few owners our obligation is to the broader community. I don’t think council should feel pressure because someone wanted their property rezoned. We have to look at the bigger picture.” He said he hoped council would be able to lift the moratorium by the end of October with new guidelines. Until then Geissinger and Dickinson will continue to work on fixing up the property for their own use over the winter, as well as to hopefully welcome nightly guests.
Mayor ready to meet new government at UBCM
GRAPHIC ARTIST
REPORTER
occupied long-term. “We know we see less complaints when people can’t rent out both (nighty),” he said. SPMRM is currently looking at options including not allowing any short-term rentals in residential zones (although they cannot revoke zoning which has already been granted), limiting the allowable percentage of short-term rentals on residentially zoned streets, increasing compliance tools at increased costs, and increasing business licence fees, fines and penalties. “I can’t forecast where council will land, but certainly leaning towards more restrictive practices and greater enforcement,” Raine said. They have also encouraged Sun Peaks Resort LLP to develop more tourist zoned areas. “We know we must figure it out pretty quickly. When we put the moratorium on we obvious-
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
Peaks’ newest development, Echo Landing. Like Village Walk the project will be completed by A & T Developments who have built in the resort for years, constructing Trappers Landing, Trails Edge, the Sundance Lodge and more. Developer Frank Quinn said they are looking forward to the project. “We had such a good result
of our sales in Village Walk that we realized there was a continuing, very significant, demand for a less expensive but still high quality project,” Quinn said, The 48 units are, expected to be a mix of two to four bedroom townhomes and condos. They will sit between Stone’s Throw and Woodhaven. Previous plans for the lot were called Parallel
One. While disclosure is not yet complete, the first sales are expected to begin this fall. “There is big demand in Sun Peaks now,” said Liz Forster, managing broker of Sotheby’s Realty. Forster said she expects a lower price point and smaller size than Village Walk. The property is ski in and out and zoned for short-term rentals.
2226 Sunburst Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
250.578.7773 sunpeakscollection.com OPEN DAILY 9 TO 5 IN THE VILLAGE STROLL AT SUN PEAKS INTRODUCING
$2,900,000 gst applicable
$1,195,000
$949,000
4121 Sundance Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
4109 Sundance Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
2226 Sunburst Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
Premium, slopeside location. This five bedroom chalet boasts colossal posts & beams, rock & copper features, gourmet kitchen, two master suites, double garage & breezeway. Fully furnished.
Ski-in/out, cedar clad 5 bedroom chalet with revenue suite. Split level home with open living area, abundance of windows & mountain views. Wrap around deck, two car garage, fully furnished.
In a prime, ski-in/out location at the top of Sunburst Drive, this fully furnished home features walkout basement, double garage, spacious revenue suite & updates including new roof, flooring & paint.
INTRODUCING
INTRODUCING
$519,900
NEW CONSTRUCTION
$499,900
$429,000 gst applicable
2 The Cabins, Sun Peaks, BC
34 Forest Trails, Sun Peaks, BC
2 - 1305 Burfield Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
This charming cedar clad, three level cabin features an exclusive master suite on the top floor, two bedrooms on the main level and a fully finished basement with an inviting family room.
Ski-in/out 3 bedroom retreat with attached garage. This special mountain home backs onto a peaceful nature area with babbling brook. Recently updated with new fixtures and stainless appliances.
New 3 bedroom, 2 and a half bath second and third floor condo. Please refer to the Disclosure Statement for specific offering details. E & OE, rendering is an artistic representation only.
INTRODUCING
INTRODUCING
2,3 & 4 bedroom ski-in, ski-out alpine townhomes and condos
COMING SOON $399,900 gst applicable
$210,000
26 Stone’s Throw, Sun Peaks, BC
1377/1379 Burfield Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
Bright top floor, fully furnished, 2 bedroom, 2 bath retreat, with ski-in/out access. Featuring an inviting, open living area with floor to ceiling windows, cozy gas fireplace, private deck & hot tub.
One of the last duplex zoned lots in Sun Peaks, this sloping building site backs onto forested ski terrain on Mt Morrisey in Canada’s 2nd largest ski area. Close to Burfield Chair & views to Mt Tod.
$129,900 gst applicable 425 Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Hotel & Suites, Sun Peaks, BC
1411 B The Residences, Sun Peaks, BC
Experience slopeside convenience & mountain views in this 2 level, condo with unlimited owner use & the benefits of a fully managed four season lodge. King size bed in loft, plus a pull out sofa.
1/4 ownership. Experience a luxurious getaway retreat in this 2 bedroom, 2 bath suite. This fully furnished spacious apartment offers true ski-in/out convenience & full use of hotel amenities.
$124,900 *This is not an offering for sale. An offering for sale may only be made after filing a Disclosure Statement under the Real Estate Development Marketing Act. E. & O. E.
WE HAVE BUYERS WAITING FOR LISTINGS
RECENTLY SOLD
IF YOU’VE BEEN THINKING OF SELLING, CONTACT OUR OFFICE FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION MARKET EVALUATION 250.578.7773
1335 Burfield Drive, Sun Peaks.................................... List Price: $489,000 24 Sun Mountain Villas, Sun Peaks ............................. List Price $349,000 5329 Lookout Ridge Drive, Sun Peaks ..................... List Price: $254,900
Our agents offer exemplary service and marketing for homes in every neighbourhood at:
sothebysrealty.com sothebysrealty.ca wallstreetjournal.com newyorktimes.com, ft.com jamesedition.com mansionglobal.com juwai.com plus dozens of exclusive websites and publications.
local expertise , global connections .
sunpeakscollection.com
Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal.
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
3
LOCAL NEWS Thirty months of breaking records >> Streak of room night increases continued over summer
by JEAN STRONG
I
f you thought the village seemed busier this summer you weren’t mistaken. Despite wildfires and ensuing smoke that impacted tourism around the province, room nights sold at Sun Peaks continued to break records set last year. August saw a 16 per cent increase over 2016 according to Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP) CEO
Arlene Schieven. July increased five per cent and June by 14 per cent. At the time of writing, September was already ahead and on track to increase by around 10 per cent. “We expect September to increase, we definitely expect we’ll have another record month.” It will be the thirtieth straight month of increases with no sign of slowing down. Despite some smoky days the village fared better than many
other destinations and saw visitors from places like Kamloops coming to escape poor air quality at home. Schieven said the increase could be attributed to strong attendance at events like the 5K Foam Fest in June, free concert weekends and the Canada Day festivities, as well as greater awareness of the destination. She said in coming years TSP would like to continue creating buzz around Sun Peaks with events like the Patio Party,
which incorporated local businesses, and see the farmers’ market grow. In a summer survey of guests, completed by TSP for the first time this year, 61 per cent of those surveyed were from B.C. Schieven said the surveys will continue through the fall because they provide important feedback and data for TSP. Bookings are pacing ahead for early winter months, Schieven said, keeping TSP on track for more record breaking.
Access causes tension between developments
A map shows the three lots and an easement that is the subject of controversy. | PHOTO SUPPLIED
by JEAN STRONG
F
rom Brock Nanson’s unit in Settler’s Crossing you can see the stakes that mark where residents of the new Echo Landing development will access their property. The project is going ahead as planned despite concerns raised by strata vice-president Nanson and other council members. Echo Landing is proceeding after years of preparation by A & T developments in Kamloops who previously created many
4
sunpeaksnews.com
local complexes including both Settler’s Crossing and Stone’s Throw. The 48 unit build is set to use a driveway currently shared by Settler’s Crossing and Stone’s Throw developments. For the strata council of Settler’s Crossing that’s where the problem begins. The land is deeded to them, the strata said, but an easement created in 2006 provided access for the three properties. Strata president Andy Oetter said his council wants the developer to use a different access point. Andy Oetter said the issue arose long before he purchased
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
three years ago. A letter written to Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) Council in 2011 from the strata council outlined concerns with the shared access. In response SPMRM’s recorded minutes indicate a letter was to be sent to the planning department at Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) for input but SPMRM staff could not confirm if that happened and the TNRD has no record of receiving or responding to a letter. Oetter said the issue returned two months ago when they received a disclosure describing the neighbouring project. Oetter and Nanson said the bottom line is safety of residents in all three complexes. Specific concerns include sight lines while entering and exiting from Village Way, a six metre wide driveway which may not be safe for use by drivers and pedestrians, issues of liability, increased maintenance costs and disruption to residents, emergency access, snow storage and removal and confusing access for visitors. “The bottom line is safety, it’s all about safety,” Oetter said. “With a driveway without sightlines and double the traffic—it’s just a matter of time that something bad would happen.”
Nanson said the sightlines are “sub-standard,” especially when snowbanks and speeding drivers are factored in. “We want them to have their own primary access and emergency access using our driveway,” he said. Planned emergency access for Echo Landing is located beside a skiway between homes and the Woodhaven development. With those concerns in mind the five member strata has reached out to A & T who said they will discuss any matters related to the right of way except the right of access. Currently the strata council has obtained legal counsel who have written a letter to A & T, but said they would prefer not to use them. “Our goal is for us not to have to go the legal route and for the developer to talk to us,” Oetter said. “We would love to be good neighbours to them.” For developer Frank Quinn, there is little to discuss and work is moving ahead. “They’re not legitimate issues. The statutory right of way was prescribed by the Ministry of Highways who took all those factors into account,” he said. Quinn said it has always been intended for the three parcels to share access and Echo Land-
ing’s lot (number 61) is visible on the Sun Peaks’ master development since 1999. He said the strata’s proposed alternate access for Echo Landing is not possible or practical. Despite the strata’s claim it would be safer, Quinn said that area of the property has a grade which is too steep for a safe entry. “There’s no question we’ll have to use that (the existing) access.” The future for the strata involves a third presentation to SPMRM council and attempting to speak with A & T about the creation of a different access point. Quinn said though they have no intention of changing their plans they will meet at any time to discuss issues raised by the strata and have said that in communications with Oetter. “We’ve been developers at Sun Peaks since 1997. We’ve never had an argument with any of our neighbours about anything,” he said. “We’re good, honest, hardworking developers and will behave as responsible corporate individuals and will treat the community of Settler’s in the best possible way we can, recognizing this is the only lawful access to our property.”
LOCAL NEWS First annual fire truck pull raises $4,500 for charity by AIDAN GRETHER
S
un Peaks Fire Rescue’s (SPFR) first annual fire truck pull drew plenty of competitors to the mountain for a day of competition on Aug. 26, all while fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy Canada. The event consisted of teams pulling the 55,000 lb engine 150 feet by rope twice. Both times were combined to rank the teams. Thirteen teams of eight to 10 people competed, including a kids pull and the Sun Peaks Stables horse pull. A late entry by the Danish gymnastics team Ollerup, nicknamed the Danish Dynamite, set both the fastest single and accumulative times: 9.96s and 20.29s respectively, taking the top spot of the day. The second place time was set by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, a ten person detachment from Australia assisting efforts in battling British Columbia’s forest fires.
They managed a total time of 20.6s. Their inspector, Peter Marshall was overjoyed to take part in the event. “It was a great day, a great event, and we are very happy to represent Australia in a positive way while fundraising for a great cause. (SPFR) did an incredible job with this event.” The kids’ team of six (including Work Experience Program firefighter and event organizer Adam Bordignon) pulled the engine for a combined time of 24.14s. The Sun Peaks Stables team of horses had the second fastest single pull, an even 10s. Team Kokua from Kamloops won the award for most money fundraised, donating $600 to the event. Their efforts included hosting bake sales around the city. The award for best dressed went to Tourism Sun Peaks’ penguin costumes, emblazoned with a “TSP” variation of the Superman logo on their chests. Over the course of the sum-
Australia’s NSW Rural Fire Service team competing in the first annual fire truck pull. | PHOTO SPIN
mer, SPFR raised $9,500 for Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Bordignon was very thankful for the support from the com-
munity to make this event, and the donation, happen. “This wouldn’t have been possible without our sponsors,
our volunteers, our competitors, or our community. Sun Peaks did so much for us and I’m incredibly grateful for it all.”
The serious business of poutine >> New restaurant opening this winter by JEAN STRONG
F
rench fries, cheese curds and gravy are a uniquely mouthwatering Canadian combination. This winter Joe Poutine will open in the village next to Mountain High Pizza and Bella Italia to offer different poutine variations.
The poutinarie will take over the Hoppla restaurant space. | PHOTO SPIN
From the classic to butter chicken or concoctions that can only be described as a heart attack on a plate, there will be something for everyone.
Owner Suzanne Duchesne has lived at Sun Peaks on and off for years and decided to make the jump to open her first business af-
ter 30 years in the food and beverage industry. “I had the idea years ago,” she said. “This past winter I said ‘No, I’m staying. This is where I have to be.’” Growing up in Ontario and spending time with family in Quebec, Duchesne knows what makes the signature dish great. “It made me crazy I couldn’t get a good poutine on the hill,” she said. “There are so many places that don’t use the correct gravy. The french fries, the gravy, it has got to be right. I’ve got 350 years of French Canadian (cuisine) behind me so I have to represent.” In addition to the classic, Duchesne will offer fries with a variety of aiolis, deep fried and
flavoured cheese curds. “I want it to be a meal in a bowl— Lunch, après or dinner. Just easy, good and warms up your insides.” Duchesne said she believes it’s important to have a variety of choices on the hill and it benefits all businesses. “It makes Sun Peaks all the more attractive.” She is busy getting everything just right for opening for the ski season. From choosing the best fryers, to testing and planning the menu, there is a lot of work to be done. “When people come in I want them to remember the place in a good way. There are people from all over the world and I want them to have a good experience.”
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
5
LOCAL NEWS Construction passes pre-recession levels Municipality collects over $100,000 in building permits by JEAN STRONG
I
f you felt like construction was happening everywhere this summer you weren’t wrong. During quick meetings on packed days, both Darcy Franklin of Meranti Developments and Jason White of Powder Ventures said this year has been the busiest since 2006 and 2007 before the recession impacted the resort. The number of municipal building permits has increased greatly this year, from $21,000 collected last year to over $102,000, as of Sept. 20 with more expected before the end of the year. “We haven’t had this scope of work since 2007,” White said. “It used to be normal,
it’s huge.” Powder Ventures is now the second largest employer in the village according to White. “We’re up to 45 employees on diverse projects,” he said. “It’s exciting, I’ve been here 24 years and the growth curve just in the last two years has been substantial. I’m very happy and proud to be involved with it.” Franklin echoed White’s sentiments that construction in the resort has been booming. He has also faced the challenge of sourcing employees to meet the demand. “There’s no doubt with things being busy that finding qualified manpower is a problem,” he said. The busyness can be attributed to customers purchasing lots and building immediately, he said, as opposed to holding on to the property like they may have in the past. “People used to buy and hold,” Franklin said. “But now they’re building in a short time frame and not building for resale. They want to live here or spend a significant amount of time here. The purchasing of
Lookout Ridge bustles with activity as new homes are constructed. | PHOTO SPIN
land shows consumer confidence in Sun Peaks.” Franklin added that many homes, especially duplexes, are being built for those who already live at Sun Peaks. Looking toward the cooler months ahead Franklin doesn’t see much slowing down.
Years of work ahead for housing authority >> Winter 2018 goal set by JEAN STRONG
A
housing authority could be helping Sun Peaks’ employees secure housing as soon as next winter. Planning on the authority began last fall as the housing crunch impacted the mountain and community. When councilor Ines Popig expressed concern about Mayor Al Raine’s 2018 target, he said it may be optimistic but they need to have a goal. “I’d like to think a year from now we will be underway,” Raine said. “It’s easy to say a whole bunch of reasons why we can’t do these things but we’ve got to move.” Raine said their housing authority will use Whistler’s model
6
sunpeaksnews.com
as inspiration but will include some key differences. For example, Raine doesn’t see retired people obtaining housing through the authority or the authority owning and managing properties, at least not at the start. He would like to see homes available at less than market value for employers to purchase and rent to employees. It would be up to the business to ensure only employees used the space. Land would likely be acquired with Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) and the provincial government working together, then working with a developer to create packages employers can purchase. If the home was no longer needed by a business it could be sold back to the housing authority for use by another business. “Over time housing will be more affordable,” Raine said. In addition to the developed
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
lots, which Raine would like to see spread throughout the municipality, there will likely be homes available at less than market value for long term employees to purchase. “If you don’t have housing and you work here for a number of years we want to help out,” Raine said. “It’s very important that people who are living outside of Sun Peaks get the opportunity to live inside Sun Peaks. The majority of people who work in Sun Peaks should be able to live here.” Inclusionary zoning, which requires new projects to make a number of units to those with low or moderate incomes, is also on council’s radar, but Raine said it may be difficult to keep developers in the resort with it in place. Raine said he would recommend council to offer bonus density for developers and exchange an increased density for the ability to rent or sell a number of units to employees.
“We never stop, we usually frame all winter.” White will stay busy through the fall, he said, with many staff switching to snow removal through winter. “We want to thank everybody very much for their patience on jobs, we got through it,”
he said. For both it is a positive time to be in business in the community. “We’ve all survived up here during the down times,” Franklin said. “But none of us have thrived. The next year is looking very positive.”
WESTSYDE YDE VICE SERVICE Auto Repairs Diesel Repairs Air Conditioning Repairs Gov. Certified Inspection Facility
BILL & MIKE LINDSAY Ph: 250-579-5532 Fax: 250-579-5852 3475 Westsyde Rd., Kamloops, BC V2B 8C5
• 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 11:30am to 6:30 p.m. Everyday Located on the ground floor of the Residences at Sun Peaks Grand
Phone:250-578-2414
COMMUNITY GRANTS IN AID
The Municipality will be accepting 2018 Grant in Aid applications until October 16th from community based groups. The full grant program guidelines can be found on our website.
For more information contact Nicky Braithwaite at 250-578-2020
LOCAL NEWS New groomers welcomed to fleet >> Preparations begin for winter by JEAN STRONG
T
wo shiny new Pisten Bully 400 groomers will be smoothing the slopes this winter after they replace two aging models in Sun Peaks’ fleet. The machines, which together cost over $900,000, are one part of a multitude of upgrades around the resort this winter. Since spring crews have been working on renovations and expansions to the Sunburst Lodge and Bento’s Day Lodge. The multi-million dollar project was announced after one of the most successful seasons in
resort history and aims to elevate the experience of all visitors. Aidan Kelly, chief marketing officer for Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR), said he is personally most excited about the overdue upgrades. “It’s a major project that benefits destination visitors and locals,” he said. “I’m really happy, ever since I got to Sun Peaks I’ve thought it’s something we really needed.” He said the projects are still on track for completion by opening weekend in mid-November and new head chef Hans Stierli is working hard on a complete culinary overhaul.
Part of the Bento’s renovations included the Ski Patrol Clinic relocating to the new Health Centre space. The move, which started in September, will be completed during the off season to be ready for opening day. Workers have also been busy clearing trees on the mountain as part of the forest health program. This year the program is focused on the lower area of the Crystal chairlift. Kelly said while the program’s intention is to clear beetle kill or dangerous trees, it will likely provide guests with new gladed areas to explore. “It’s not the focus but it’s a benefit,” he said. “We try to do it in a way that improves the zone.” Other trail repairs are being completed on Sundance Mountain before winter after spring
Sunburst Lodge renovations have been a focus of SPR this summer. | PHOTO SPIN
flooding washed away some areas and wore culverts. Work will also be completed on Mt. Morrisey where a small landslide damaged Agitator run. Kelly said work was challenging to complete this summer
because workers and equipment were engaged fighting fires across the province and increased summer visitor numbers meant balancing completing work and ensuring a positive guest experience.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS >> Rotary raises over $7,000 in 3 months Since becoming officially chartered this June, the Sun Peaks Rotary Club has raised more than $7,000 for the community. A spring spelling bee raised $800 for the Sun Peaks Education Society (SPES),
>> Sun Peaks Grand finalist for Business of the Year The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Centre is
followed by the summer farmers’ markets where club members raised around $400 for the Sun Peaks Skate Park Foundation (SPSPF) and $1,356 for SPES through a raffle. Club president Brenda Wilkinson said the market booth was also important to raise awareness of the group and connect with members of other rotary clubs visiting the community. Another event that raised awareness was volunteering to serve a pancake breakfast
at the Blue Moon Elvis Festival in Barriere for attendees and wildfire evacuees staying nearby. As another way to get involved the club volunteered to clean up after the Retro and Trooper concert weekends. This fall the group was busy with the first ever scavenger hunt with more than 80 participants raising $3,400 for SPSPF. Members also had the chance to bid in an online auction where a package to Prosser Washington for
their district conference was up for grabs. The auction raised $1,251 which will be earmarked for a local charity. On Sept. 17, after a busy summer of volunteering and fundraising, 21 members were officially installed as members of Rotary during a brunch meeting. Members of other clubs in Kamloops and Fort St. John were in attendance as was the district’s governor elect and Al and Nancy Raine. The club is accepting new members at anytime.
in the running for a national tourism award. The hotel is one of three finalists for the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) Canadian Tourism Awards Business of the Year award. The award is given to a tourism business that exemplifies best practices
overall. Judging criteria include the business’ strength, long-term viability, commitment to visitor satisfaction and growth and contribution to the tourism industry. Past winners of the award include Rocky Mountaineer, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac and the Brentwood
Bay Resort and Spa. The hotel’s general manager, Vivek Sharma, said he was honoured to be a finalist. “You obviously feel extremely humbled and honoured. You’re in the top three tourism businesses across Canada who made it to that so that’s a big honour.
Nancy Greene Raine and Rotary President Brenda Wilkinson draw for the raffle winner. | PHOTO SUPPLIED
“A lot of people in the past two or three years have played a very key role. We only wish everybody was here to celebrate with us,” he said. The award winner will be named at the TIAC annual conference in Ottawa on Nov. 29 where Sharma will be in attendance.
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
7
GET OUT THERE Local stakeholders attend mountain biking convention by EMILY PERRINS
A
delegate of riding enthusiasts from Sun Peaks attended the 2017 BC Mountain Bike Tourism Symposium from Sept. 13 to 15 in Revelstoke to learn about current industry trends. The theme of this year’s event was stewardship, and over 50 different communities were represented. A main area of discussion was the need to build sustainable trails for the adaptive community, an idea that hit close to home for Jase Petersen, Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association (SPRTA) president, who attended the symposium. “I feel with our strong adaptive community in the winter, it makes sense to work toward growing summer opportuni-
Sun Peaks Hockey League will be sporting a new trailer this year, thanks to several sponsors stepping up as the new rink has no storage available yet. The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre, Sotheby’s International Realty, TylAir Aviation and Freefall Sun Peaks all contributed to the $3,000 trailer which will be used to store equipment and help the teams travel to away games. | PHOTO SPIN
OVER 5,000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED Pick up locations downtown, Sahali, Aberdeen and the North Shore Local advertising starting at $110 per month SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/ ADVERTISE
GREEN RUN FRIENDS
CORPORATE
INDIVIDUAL
$100 to $499 Alfred Buchi Anne Lanskail Anona Thorne Brent & Denise Davis Cheryl Rixon David Fedor & Brenda Wilkinson Diane Rampone Douglas Alder Dr. Geoffrey and Mrs. Gloria Iverson Gary Dixon Gregory Hayes Izzy Hampton Stone
Katie & Malcolm Brown Kelly Brown Larry & Patricia Linton Lloyd Sarginson Nigel Beaney Paul Kennell Randy & Dianne Battison Raymond & Susan Sewell Thomas & Donna Kelleran
Alpine Property Services (Andrea & Paul Nielsen) Cahilty Hotel & Suites - Staff Sun Peaks 5-Forty Deli (Scott Janzen)
CORPORATE
INDIVIDUAL
BRONZE MEDAL SUPPORTERS $5,000 to $9,999
ties,” Petersen said. The attendees from Sun Peaks, representing SPRTA, Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) and Tourism Sun Peaks, intend to continue discussions inspired by the symposium and work together to create a master plan for the future development of the trail network at Sun Peaks. At a Sept. 5 municipal council meeting, SPR, SPRTA and Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality each committed to contributing one third of the cost of creating the new trail master plan. The growing demand for backcountry and alpine riding experiences was also identified. Access to these areas has opened up to a larger market with the recent advent of helicopter bike racks. This new accessibility raises questions around sustainability and the need for a respon-
BLUE RUN FRIENDS
BLACK RUN FRIENDS
DOUBLE BLACK RUN FRIENDS
$500 to $999
$1,000 to $1,999
$2,000 to $4,999
Brandi Schier & Danny Webb Bud & Chris Hollstedt Dennie Rothschild Diletta Toneatti Hilary Saunders Reid Liske Robert MacDonald Suzanne Travis Sylvia & Mario Erler Timothy & Barbara Paul
Bolacco Café (Konrad & Elizabeth Glowczynski) Flynn Mirtle Moran
SILVER MEDAL SUPPORTERS $10,000 to $24,999
Alfred Schultz & Leona Kolla Bryan & Maureen Walker Darcy Alexander David Carlson Diane & Mark Smith Gregory Hayes John McKnight Judith & Peter Mollard Teri & Steve Dorey
ABC Engineering Service Ltd (Renate Kals & Gerhard Tscheppe) Bottoms Bar & Grill (Nathan Cross)
Mountain High Pizza (Ryan Schmalz) Smart Electrical Sundance Liquor Store Ltd.
GOLD MEDAL SUPPORTERS $25,000 to $49,999
Anthony & Michelle Santo
Cahilty Hotel & Suites (John & Joanne Douglas, Susan Dugas) M.C.L.C. Developments Ltd. (Frank Quinn) Powder Ventures Excavating (Jason White & Melissa Mckenzie)
Council Donation Ecosign Mountain Resort Planner (Paul & Linda Matthews) Juniper West Developments Ltd. (Doug MacKenzie)
Meranti Developments (Darcy Franklin) Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Tod Mountain Thoroughbreds (Ron & Rae Fawcett)
Alison & Richard Floyd Doug Strong Mario Pozza & Robbin Shamenski Mike Forster Nancy & Dave Street Peter & Tina Ernst
Cahilty Creek Bar & Grill (Peter & Tina Ernst, Kelly & Yolanda Dye) Powder Hounds Restaurant (Peter & Tina Ernst)
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
Remax Alpine Resort Realty Corp. (Lark Frolek-Dale) Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Guests Sun Peaks Independent News Sun Peaks Lodge (Sylvia & Mario Erler)
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL SUPPORTERS $50,000 + Al & Nancy Raine Petr Duda & Ines Popig
Bear Country Property Mgmt (Reiner Brecht)
Province of British Columbia
>> DONATE AT WWW.SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/HEALTHCENTRE
8
sibility code to address the delicate ecosystems likely to be affected. Other key concerns emerged throughout the weekend including the growth of e-bikes (bikes with an electric motor to provide additional assistance). Already popular in Europe and the commuter world, it’s only a matter of time until they are seen in the mountain biking circuit, according to Martin Littlejohn, Mountain Bike Tourism Association’s associate director, who led discussion around the potential impact on trails and how it could be managed. Riders can expect to see more lessons from the symposium receiving local focus in the future as Sun Peaks stakeholders continue to collaborate on maintaining sustainable recreational practices and inspiring effective stewardship of summer trails.
GET OUT THERE Stewart looks to be downhill ambassador by EMILY PERRINS
“No friends on pow days,” goes the winter mantra. After an exceptionally dry season in the Bike Park, this saying started to count for something this summer as well. Yet, on a clear blue day following a night of rain, on the last weekend of the season when the trails were in their finest condition (the tack!), one local pro downhill racer postponed her first ride on the brown pow to discuss her achievements and women’s riding with SPIN. Kyleigh Stewart hails from Kamloops and at 17 has been turning heads for her downhill skills for a while. She has been on the racing circuit since the age of 12, but only got “serious” the last couple of years as she started securing sponsorship from the likes of Dissent, Schwalbe, Commencal and a score of other brands. Last month Stewart was featured on Pink Bike, the largest online community and compendium for everything mountain
>>Sun Peaks rider featured on PinkBike.com biking. A two minute segment featuring Stewart riding Sun Peaks shot by local filmmaker Max Loukidelis made “Video of the Day” and already had over 6,600 views. It showcased Stewart’s fearless riding and stylish maneuvers, including a “suicide nohander,” which she is especially proud of. “That’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while,” she said. The video is just another achievement Stewart squeezed into her season alongside winning National Championships in the junior women’s category in Invermere in July, making the podium at the BC Championships and Crankworx, and scoring an invite to
the Mountain Bike World Cup in Montreal. It was a slower season for Stewart, who chose to compete less and focus on having fun with her bike while balancing other work and life commitments. Staying injury free was also a bonus, according to Stewart. In shifting away from racing, Stewart’s goal for the future is to progress into an ambassador for the sport. Already a role model for other young women in biking and with a following in the community, it’s a perfect role for the talented shredder. Stewart already has ideas on how novice, especially female, riders can be encouraged to get more involved in downhill mountain biking. “More local, fun events to target beginners and locals would help people progress to the higher level of racing and riding,” she said, and also referred to the Bike Park’s lack of beginner terrain as a setback. “Typically women look at the possible outcomes more than men, which can hold a person back in this sport,” Stewart
Stewart in action at Provincials at Sun Peaks this year. | PHOTO AIDAN GRETHER
pointed out. She suggested following the lead of other resorts, like Whistler, that host free ladies nights that include coaching, discounts on passes and gear and après events. The pro rider has plans to
shoot a trail bike video at Harper Mountain this fall and travel on to the Yukon to film a biking adventure video series next summer. The future looks bright for Stewart, who has a lot more potential for air time, online and on the trails.
FALL BUY SEASON PASSES ONLY UNTIL OCTOBER 9! Save up to $350* on your winter season pass.
OCTOBER 7-9, 2017 9AM - 5PM
NEW Passholder Perk: Save 10%† at the newly renovated food and beverage lodges! Fall buy ends October 9, 2017 at midnight. Advertised savings based on adult pass pricing. †On select items, restrictions apply.
Check out our online ticket store. Plan ahead and save when you buy lift tickets online, in advance!
SunPeaksResort.com/Passes
250.578.5474 Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
9
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Jamaican vibes land in Kamloops
GET SOCIAL WITH US
Find us on Facebook
/sunpeaksnews
Culcha Shock are selling tickets to their first Kamloops show.
>> Culcha Shock ready to take Canada by storm
by JEAN STRONG
I
f you saw Nesrick Woolery at his day job with Top of the Mountain Accommodation at Sun Peaks you wouldn’t guess how he spends his free time. Woolery, or “Nezzie”, is part of a group of artists who go by the name Culcha Shock. Hailing from Jamaica, they share a goal of making reggae and dancehall music popular in Canada. “The goal is to bring a
PHOTO SUPPLIED
piece of Jamaica here,” said Woolery’s music partner Hardley Williams. The two have been working hard to promote an upcoming show at CJ’s in Kamloops on Oct. 6. It will be their first Kamloops show but in the past two years they have performed at venues in Kelowna, Vancouver and at festivals. The group formed three years ago in Woolery’s kitchen and has grown into a home studio where they create their own tracks and freestyle. They both bring experience from Jamaica, working in clubs, performing, and hosting street parties. Woolery said working together means constantly learning. “We’ll do a freestyle to a track and pick what you want out of that to create a song.” “The mood you’re in creates the beat,” added Williams. “It’s a team effort, sometimes we
go to the studio and scrap it all. Everybody puts their own taste in each song.” Woolery first came to Canada eight years ago; Williams arrived a year earlier. The group’s name was inspired by the jump between countries. “It was a real shocker,” Williams said. “So that’s where ‘Culcha Shock’ came from.” Woolery is professionally trained as an electrical engineer and Williams as an aircraft mechanic, but both are focused on growing their brand and landing bigger gigs. “We want to grow international and get bigger,” Woolery said. “We’re different and different is good.” As for performing at Sun Peaks? It’s on their list of goals alongside other Kamloops venues. “It’s about time,” Williams said. “We might as well just do it and get it done.”
2017—18 Sun Peaks Visitors’ Guide >> On resort December 1st! 15,000 copies Go-to dining, accommodation, services and activities guide Booking Deadline Oct. 30th | Email sales@sunpeaksnews.com or call 250-578-0276
10
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
EVENTS
On Sept. 16 and 17, 195 racers returned to Sun Peaks to take part in the BC Enduro Series Final and Canadian National Enduro Series final. In the pro category Leonie Picton and Remi Gauvin came first in the women’s and men’s categories. | PHOTOS SPIN
EVENT > listings FRIDAY
SUNDAY
LIVE MUSIC AT MORRISEY’S
HARPER MOUNTAIN OKTOBERFEST
SEPTEMBER 30
OCTOBER 1
Check out Morrisey’s Public House for free live music by The Volunteers from 8 to 10 p.m. 250 578 6062
harpermountain.com
SATURDAY TO MONDAY
OCTOBER 7 TO 9 TURKEY SALE
Head to Sun Peaks’ traditional turkey sale for discounts on winter and summer gear on the top floor of the new Health Centre from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jardines, McSporties and Freefall will also be open for business with deals on last year’s stock. guestservices@sunpeaksresort.com
Harper Mountain’s annual event features 5 and 10km races, a biking enduro race and mountain bike skills clinic. Beer from Red Collar Brewing and Iron Road Brewing will be served alongside tasty food from local foodtrucks.
SEPTEMBER 8 TO OCTOBER 21 THE WITNESS AT TRANQUILLE FARM
Tranquille Farms presents The Witness, an original, interactive play that delves into the history of the farm. Shows run weekly on Sunday, Friday and Saturday. info@tranquillefarmfresh.ca
SATURDAY
THURSDAY
OCTOBER 14
C.R. AVERY LIVE AT THE BISTRO
Support the Sun Peaks Alpine Club with one of their biggest fundraisers of the year. A memorable event with traditional costumes, food and, of course, beer! Partial proceeds will be donated to Kidsport Kamloops. Tickets sell out so buy early.
OCTOBER 5
For one night only, The Voyageur Bistro is hosting C.R. Avery! Come and see him from 8pm till late. You won’t be disappointed. Call to make a reservation to guarantee your spot. 250-578-5268 (KANU)
HOSTING A COMMUNITY EVENT?
OKTOBERFEST 2017
sunpeaksracers.com
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/ EVENTS
Add it to our online calendar
sunpeaksnews.com/events
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
11
12
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
IN PHOTOS
- Photo SPIN
Sun Peaks Grand chef Sudhir D’Souza at Kamloop’s Farm to Table event. - Photo Submitted
Landon Oevermann celebrates a gold medal win at the 2017 ITF BC Championships in Richmond. - Photo Submitted
The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre helped raise $26,000 for BC Adaptive Snowsports. - Photo SPIN
Celebrating a great hole at the BC Adaptive Charity golf tourney. - Photo Submitted
Sun Peaks Rotary Club gets ready for their first Scavenger Hunt.
Olly Glenno during Peaks Pedal Fest which celebrated another summer season on the trails. - Photo Riff Stills
Sun Peaks’ Mountain Mavens enjoying a late summer sunrise from the top of Mt. Morrisey. - Photo SPIN
Mason and Slade Streadwick, Charlie Scissons and Braden Hampton celebrate completing the kid’s Spartan Race. - Photo Submitted
SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO BE EMAIL PHOTOS TO FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM
Students celebrate a new play area thanks in part to Powder Ventures Excavating. - Photo SPIN
OR
ON INSTAGRAM? #SUNPEAKSNEWS POST YOUR PHOTOS USING
@SUNPEAKSNEWS
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
13
MOUNTAIN NEWS Mountain Town News by ALLEN BEST ALLEN.BEST@COMCAST.NET MOUNTAINTOWNNEWS.NET
Overtourism in Whistler, and protecting Crested Butte’s funk WHISTLER, B.C. – From Whistler to Crested Butte, the discussion continues about how to make a living from tourism without being overwhelmed by it. It’s a familiar quandary for mountain towns, but now a new word has been coined to capture the dilemma: “overtourism.” One website traces the origin of overtourism to a Twitter hashtag in 2012. An Irish website says that overtourism went mainstream in the summer of 2017. In Whistler, Tourism Whistler has put the issue of sustainable tourism and overtourism on its agenda, reported Pique Newsmagazine. There’s an official cap on the bed base in Whistler, but it’s being challenged by the invention of ever-more inventive ways to draw new visitors. Vail Resorts, despite its goals of net zero for landfill waste and carbon-based fuel, has a business strategy that’s all about constant expansion. Now, Whistler tourism chiefs are talking about broadening the community’s appeal by emphasizing its cultural attractions, including a major new art museum. But the bottom line is the same, observes Pique columnist G.D. Maxwell. “It’s designed to leverage culture to put heads in beds.” “Tourism is what we do and we do it well,” noted an editoral in the same newspaper. “The challenge now is working to find a balance between providing an outstanding guest experience and supporting a community that people can afford and want to call home.”
14
sunpeaksnews.com
Whistler still manages to boast that 80 percent of local employees live locally, thanks to a steady effort to build affordable housing. Crested Butte has outgrown its mining town roots and struggles to find room for its employees. The answers? Mark Reaman, the long-term editor of the Crested Butte News, offers none, but he does find a current proposal for 240 apartment units suffering from having an “overall mainstream feel” and worries “where it leads Crested Butte as a funky mountain town.” “It doesn’t fit with what this place represents. It brings to our front door a taste of what most of us consciously left,” he wrote. “We proudly live and visit here in the (admitted) bubble specifically not to be in the mainstream. We all enjoy the small town, quirky, high mountain village that is not like everywhere else. We appreciate our unique ‘built environment’ that really is different from other places—even other mountain towns. We purposely look different. We purposely feel different. Choices made as a community the last several decades have kept it that way,” he added. “People who choose to live, visit or have a second home up here know it can be a challenge. There is the challenge of isolation, climate, and scale. Not everyone can cut it up here and most who do become fiercely protective of the character they believe helps define the place. Not only does Crested Butte … not want to be like everyplace else, it doesn’t aspire to be like other mountain ski towns. Drive along I-70 by Frisco or Vail and you see the apartment projects ‘where the workers live.’ It is obvious.”
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
Jasper to get crosswalk painted in rainbow hues JASPER, Alberta – Jasper municipal councilors have decided to allow a pedestrian crosswalk painted with the rainbow colors commonly used to identify LGBTQ2S+. OUT Jasper, the local applicant, must bear the cost for the painting and maintenance of the crosswalk. Under the new policy adopted by Jasper, it must reapply after two years. Others may also apply for non-standard crosswalks under the new rules, reported the Jasper Fitzhugh. The rainbow colors don’t represent sexual identity, but rather beneficial aspects of life, according to Mychol Ormandy, executive director of OUT Jasper. Red is for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, and violet for human spirit—inclusive to everybody, he said. But one council member, Gilbert Wall, remained opposed— not because he objects to various sexual identities. “I will proudly walk across the rainbow crosswalk. So will my family,” he said during a council meeting. But he said he continued to oppose such symbols that reflect group identities as he believes they encourage “divisive politics.” Snowmass tepidly considers the sale of cannabis products SNOWMASS VILLAGE, Colo. – Snowmass Village councilors plan to get the opinions of voters in coming months to see if there is interest in allowing sales of medical or recreational marijuana, or both. Colorado began allowing sales of marijuana for recreational purposes in January 2014. A theme quickly emerged. Those towns that tend to be most liberal legalized sales. Sales commenced in Aspen, Crested Butte, and Telluride. But their adjacent slope-
side towns—Snowmass Village, Mt. Crested Butte, and Mountain Village, all more conservative by nature—decided to wait and see. Increased tax revenues remain attractive to towns though. Tax collections have increased from $76 million in Colorado in 2014 to $200 million in 2016, according to a July study by a company called VS Strategies. Meanwhile, cannabis purveyors in Colorado have a new restriction effective Oct. 1. Edibles infused with THC, the primary psychoactive agent of marijua-
na, cannot be in the shapes of humans, animals or fruits, whether artistic or cartoonish in the renderings. The goal of the new regulations is to prevent edible cannabis products from being attractive to children. They can still be sold in geometric shapes and with fruit flavours. Colorado’s new rules also require that packaging of edible products contain notice of the marijuana contents in typography that is at least two font sizes larger than the surrounding label text.
Providing Quality Service Since 2009 Residential - Strata - Rentals
Our hot tub family has only a few spaces left! Hot Tub Maintenance
• • •
Quality of service vrs quantity of tubs Flexible plans and rates for private use or rental units Basic repair, new lids, and parts available
Windows dirty from all of the construction? Window & Gutter Cleaning
• • •
The only professional window cleaners at SunPeaks Experienced and insured Exterior/Interior equipped with a 67’ man lift
Call today for an estimate! Derek Butcher 250-320-0690
Bobbi Butcher 250-320-0073
sunpeaksps@gmail.com
BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/CLASSIFIED
SODOKU Edited by Margie E. Burke
ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS ADS ARE PLACED DAILY
SOLVE THIS CROSSWORD Edited by Margie E. Burke
CROSSWORD ANSWERS V15I9
Answers can be found in the next issue of SPIN FOR RENT One bedroom shared accommodation available on Heffley Lake. Large fully renovated home, fully furnished. I the owner am up every two weeks or so for 1-3 days , Oct 1 till March 30. Must vacate Dec 23 to Jan 1 (storage on site). $626 per month. Mature person only. Text Darryl 1 604 626 7100. 2bdrm unit on Fairways, full bathroom, laundry, wifi, all utilities. 1 car parking, no parties/pets/smoking. 1 year lease only. Looking for mature responsible tenants: $1400 Nov- April, $1200 May- Oct. Less if single or a couple. Email: shari_red@yahoo.com.
SODOKU ANSWERS V15I9
EMPLOYMENT
General labour required. Sun Peaks/ Heffley Lake. Part time. Sept 15 - Dec 15, 2017 +. $20/hour. www.northrockhomes.ca. Call/ Text #1 604-626-7100. The Coast Sundance Lodge is hiring Room Attendants. Come join our awesome team! Experience an asset, but not required. Please send resume and cover letter to hr.sundance@coasthotels.com. Snowshoe Guide – Full time. Required Experience/ Qualifications: Outdoor guiding experience, winter preferred, Good knowledge of snowshoeing and Sun Peaks, Proven experience in leading small and large groups of all ages, Interpretive skills, First aid certification minimum OFA level 1 with CPR, Food Safe Level 1, Strong organizational skills, Proficiency in MS office or equivalent for reporting, Outstanding customer service skills ** Must have accommodation in Sun Peaks. Please contact Maria Cannon – info@discoversunpeaks.com. Sun Peaks Lodge is hiring for the winter 17/18. Housekeeping Supervisor (winter or year round). Housekeeper (winter or year round). Dinner Server. Please send resume to info@sunpeakslodge.com.
ACCOMMODATION WANTED
Ski Instructor seeking accom for winter 17/18. Looking for one bedroom/suite/shared/loft for 1st Dec to end of April. Please email me at bellmatt03@gmail.com with any options/leads. Non-Smoking, Non-Party, Family Man working @Sun Peaks. Oct 11-April 15 needs 1or 2 Bedroom Suite. 250-968-4457 or hikeinc@valemount.com. Accommodation for the ski season. Danish girl looking for room, studio or apartment to rent from November to April. henrik.agerskov@gmail.com. Looking for 2-3 bedroom for rent over the winter season, possibly longer. Working as Head Chef at the steakhouse. robbiemartinb@gmail.com.
Do you enjoy our puzzles? Too easy? Too hard?
Let us know! Send your thoughts to: editor@sunpeaksnews.com
or phone 250.578.0276
OVER 5,000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED Pick up locations downtown, Sahali, Aberdeen and the North Shore
Local advertising starting at $110 per month SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/ ADVERTISE
RESTAURANTS FALL HOURS
LOCATED IN THE HEARTHSTONE LODGE
free delivery
free delivery
250.578.7272
GET FULLY SATISFIED—GET MOUNTAIN HIGH
Monday - thursday 11am to 2pm, 5 to 9:30pm friday & saturday 11am to 9:30pm Delivery available after 5pm
Pizza by the Slice Take n Bake Pizzas $ 00 6. Lunch Specials Salads & Meat Pies
gluten free
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
15
BUSINESS LISTINGS
Online at
local.sunpeaksnews.com
SERVICES SUN PEAKS PLUMBING, HEATING, ELECTRICAL & GAS FITTING
Your Fireplace Experts
Installations, renovations & maintenance Energy efficiency upgrade specialists
Professional Service & Repairs Fireplace Replacement Specialists
Fireplaces, hot water tanks, furnaces, boilers Water filtration and softener systems Lighting System Upgrades
We only employ licensed electricians, gas fitters & plumbers as per Provincial & Federal codes & requirements and in accordance with The Safety Act of Canada
CALL 250-572-1671
sunpeaksplumbingandheating.com
1200 Battle Street, Kamloops 250-372-3424 www.fireplacecentre.com
Pain / alignment concerns with hiking, running & skiing
250.314.1203 progressivestep.ca
Trina Marshman Home Financing Advisor
Kamloops/Sun Peaks Mortgage Specialist with Scotiabank Primary/residential/switches/refinance
250.819.0013 trina.marshman@scotiabank.com
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
Grether Contracting Serving Sun Peaks Since 1992 Kitchen & Bath Renovations Damage Restoration Drywall & Painting Concrete Repairs Building Maintenance & Consulting
CALL ANDRÉ "FIRST" 250-371-1753 • andregrether@gmail.com
h sc u R
ENTERPRISES LTD.
Tim Call 20-9375 3 250-
n Home Improvements n No job too small n Repairs n 25 years experience n Property Checks & n Renovations Maintenance
RUSCHENTERPRISESLTD@GMAIL.COM
16
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
Excavating Ltd. •
Excavating & Snow Clearing
•
Landscape Rock/Granite
•
1”—4”, 4”—12”, 5”—18”, Sand, Pitrun
•
1” Crush
Greg: 250 371 7800 • gzieb@telus.net
ROBERTS CONSTRUCTION
Looking for services in Sun Peaks? Check out our new
PAUL ROBERTS
Online Business Directory
CUSTOM BUILDER | PROJECT MANAGER NEW HOMES | ADDITIONS
PHONE: 250 371 4880
local.sunpeaksnews.com
>> SPORTS Ripping on the water >> Kamloops club welcomes anyone to waterski by JEAN STRONG
T
hree members of Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks (ASSP) were treated to a day of fun on the water with the Kamloops waterski club on Shumway Lake in July. Riann Batch, club member and volunteer instructor for ASSP, said the event was important to continue the club’s activities over summer months. Last summer members had the opportunity to try other water
sports like paddle boarding and kayaking. “It’s just fun,” she said. “This is my second year taking part in water skiing. I learned more and was able to use a piece of equipment for amputees to go water skiing. “It’s always good to find opportunities that aren’t limited just to winter and it seems like a natural fit with skiing.” The time and boats were donated by the Kamloops Waterski Club who have a history of supporting access to sports in the area. Paul Dixon, the club’s president, said they have been active in adaptive water sports since their first clinic. “The sheer joy and excitement on participants’ faces, my spirits were uplifted seeing that,” Dixon said. “After the first year we said ‘This is feasible, there’s no reason we can’t have adaptive members as part of our club.’”
“ONE THING WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON IS WE CAN GET ANYBODY UP WATERSKIING...”
Now every competition has an adaptive component and multiple clinics are offered each season. The club has fundraised and received grants to purchase equipment that allow anyone to try the sport at a beginner, intermediate or advanced level. Dixon said anyone who is interested is welcome to try no matter where they are from. “I think there may be people that are interested but don’t end up coming… One thing we pride ourselves on is we can get anybody up waterskiing. You don’t have to have any balance whatsoever.”
Riann Batch waterskiing on Shumway Lake. | PHOTO SUPPLIED
Summer of skating wraps up by JEAN STRONG
D
espite not having a skate park, local eighth grade student Will McGauchie has wrapped up his second season of competition. After starting the year in the beginners category, McGauchie moved up to intermediate for the final competition of the Bowl Series in Whistler on Aug. 15 and 16. “It was really good,” he said of the competition. “Intermediate was a bit more challenging but much more fun.” Participants perform tricks in a bowl and are evaluated by three judges. McGauchie placed fifth after going up against 12 others in his section. “I’m pretty proud of that,” he said. “In beginner I came first and fourth.” His skating has improved over the summer and he has learned tricks like five-0s, 50-50s and rock to fakies. But he has had to practise in other communities or on homemade ramps. “It makes a big difference, the one thing you can’t do here at Sun Peaks is you can’t practise.”
Will McGauchie drops into the bowl at a competition. | PHOTO SUPPLIED
He said having a skate park would not only allow local kids to use and practise with it, but it could draw big crowds. “If we did have a skate park up here at Sun Peaks it would bring a community. There are 200 people at competitions.”
For now, McGauchie has returned to school and plans to continue to practise on his skateboard and get ready for skiing and freestyle competitions. But he said he’s looking forward to more skateboarding competitions next summer.
WANT TO ADVERTISE A CLASSIFIED AD?
Submit online at sunpeaksnews.com/ classified or call 250.578.0276
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
17
>> SPORTS Adaptive program adding new sports and reaching more people by EMILY PERRINS
A
daptive Sports at Sun Peaks (ASSP) is looking to broaden the services and opportunities available this winter season by adding two sports and reaching out to people with mental health concerns. The not-for-profit organization offers customized snowsports instruction to people of all ages with mobility and cognitive challenges. Conceived in 2007, ASSP has evolved over the last ten years to become the wide reaching program it is today, with both a locals’ program and a service for out-oftown guests. More recently, the group has been broadening its focus beyond those with disabilities to include individuals with mental health concerns, those undergoing rehabilitation and older people. “We want to get beyond la-
belled disabilities,” said Pat McKimmon, ASSP president. “To offer service to anyone who needs more help than a commercial ski school can provide.” Their mission is to make the mountain experience accessible to all. Not only is ASSP’s outreach expanding, but they’re also adding new sports to their program this year. Nordic skiing and sledge hockey will be offered, in addition to the regular skiing and snowboarding programs, pending manpower and demand. For those already looking forward to next year, ASSP is also looking to develop its summer program. To date, they have collaborated with other groups to offer stand-up paddleboarding and waterskiing, but there is also interest for therapeutic horseriding and sailing. ASSP relies on volunteers to run its programs, and with more offered this year there is a heightened need for people
“WE WANT TO GET BEYOND LABELLED DISABILITIES.”
to get involved. “We offer custom instruction for individual needs and we staff two instructors to one student,” McKimmon explained. There is also greater need for volunteers behind the scenes and off mountain, with the workload now year-round. “We need volunteers, but in particular, we need volunteers with the skills and commitment to do the background organization and fundraising and program management,” said McKimmon. If you’re interested in getting involved, ASSP is hosting an orientation, AGM and lesson sign on night on Oct. 17. For further information or to register online, go to adaptivesportsatsunpeaks.org.
ASSP making a difference on the slopes. | PHOTO SUBMITTED
FIND US ON TWITTER @sunpeaksnews
SPORTS BRIEF >> Big impact from the Big Little Golf Challenge In its second year of fundraising solely for the Sun Peaks Education Society (SPES), Nancy Greene’s Big Little Golf Challenge raised over $11,000.
18
sunpeaksnews.com
The event is one of the biggest fundraisers for SPES and is especially important to support and fund the beginning of the school year. Around 50 participants took part in the family friendly tournament that featured the Tee it Forward initiative which moves tees forward to make the sport easier and more accessible to children. The tournament’s main sponsors were Telus, Sun Peaks Resort LLP and
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
the Cement Association of Canada with other businesses sponsoring the nine holes. The Sept. 9 event struggled with weather but chair Rob Bremner said it was successful and participants had fun. Bremner and his fellow organizers are already looking to next year’s game and preparing sponsorships. “Without the sponsors it becomes a challenge,” he said. Anyone who wishes to support SPES can join for $20.
Winners pose with their trophy and Nancy Greene Raine.
| PHOTO SUPPLIED
>> SPORTS Mt. Hood camp puts racers on summer snow by JEAN STRONG
W
hile it was warm at home a group of Sun Peaks Alpine Club racers ditched their hiking boots and bikes for skis in preparation for another winter of competition. Forty athletes between 12 and 18 years old from three B.C. clubs attended a ski camp in Mt. Hood, Ore. Sun Peaks’ 14 representatives joined others from Fernie, Rossland and Vernon from Aug. 20 to 26. “Our club hasn’t had a camp there for four or five years,” said Montana Molyneux, coach of the Sun Peaks Alpine Club (SPAC). “Mt. Hood had an amazing snow year this year and perfect weather.” During the five days on snow racers had the chance to learn from multiple national level coaches and athletes as well as coaches from other teams. That variety, Molyneux said, is an important part of learning.
“It’s a really cool opportunity to expose the athletes to other skiers. By combining forces (with other teams) we had amazing coaching. Everyone got a chance to ski with the other coaches.” “Everyone got a lot of runs in, everyone had one or two things they could take from the camp and something to feel good about.” It also gave the group a chance to get on skis and try out new equipment before snow falls at home. In addition to skiing, racers explored local rivers and lakes during afternoon adventures, had campfires and spent time bonding as a team. One morning of training was especially memorable as the summer’s solar eclipse occurred with near totality overhead. “We all had glasses, they would ski then look up and watch. It got pretty darn cold. It was a cool experience and the coaches were even more excited.”
Noa Hooton, Chloe Hurst and Peyon Devlin at the top of the Mt. Hood course. | PHOTO SUPPLIED
Now the team is home they are focusing on getting back to school and achieving good grades to ensure they can take
time off to race and travel. They also participate in physical conditioning twice a week throughout the fall.
“Now it’s time to make sure they’re organized physically and make sure they’re doing well (in classes).”
Thank You
for supporting the annual Nancy Greene Golf Challenge MAJOR SPONSORS
Telus Sun Peaks Resort Cement Association of Canada
HOLE SPONSORS Sun Peaks Independent News Chrigels Timber Challet A &T Project Development ISL Engineering and Land Services City of Kamloops
Houle Electric Extreme Excavating Urban Systems Powder Ventures Excavating Remax Realty
VOLUNTEERS Bryan and Maureen Walker Dave and Nancy Street Bill and Leslie Hanrahan Catherine and Will McGauchie David Fedor Adam Bordignon Sean Robinson
Wendy Melville Colin Cannon Alivia Mercer Sara Forster Tanis Sorge Keith Massey
DONORS Alpine Images Gallery Barb Brodie BC Lions Football Club The Dunes at Kamloops Bill Hanrahan Chrigel’s Timber Chalet Dave & Nancy Street Diabetes Association of BC and Barb Brodie Frilan Appraisals Harvest Golf Club Gilles Dufour Heidi MacGowan Hub International Barton Insurance Coast Sundance Lodge Janice Rutherford Notary Public Inc. Jardine’s Flynn Mirtle Moran Kamloops Blazers Kamloops Family Vision Clinic Kenny Dale Bolacco Cafe’ La Dolcevita Day Spa and Salon Lenore and Sandy Liz Derksen
Mair Jensen Blair Meranti Developments Michelle and Mark Smith Nancy Greene Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Hotel & Suites NRI Distributors Parkinson’s Society of BC and Barb Brodie Bella Italia Ristorante Powder Hounds Red Tag Fitness Equipment Reiner Brecht of Bear Country Property Management Rivershore Golf Links Ruben & Tannis Sorge Sotheby’s International Realty, Sun Peaks Spoke N Motion Sun Peaks Lodge & Steakhouse Sun Peaks Spa Surplus Herbies Tim and Julie Ruscheinsky Top Of The Mountain Accommodations Watson & Haines Whiecroft Village Kids
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26
sunpeaksnews.com
19
Serving Sun Peaks and area since 1995
ALPINE RESORT REALTY
OPEN DAILY - LOCATED IN THE KOOKABURRA LODGE T: 250 578 8222 TF: 1 800 663 2838 E: info@sunpeaksrealty.com
EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED
4108 SUNDANCE DRIVE | 1,479,000
2433 FAIRWAYS DRIVE | $948,000
The architect got it right from street appeal to interior design. Prestigious Sundance Estates 4 bedroom home plus 2 bedroom suite with separate entrance, main floor with an open design, large great room, floor to ceiling rock fireplace, custom kitchen and dining room, all complimented by great window packages and French doors to patios side and back. Spec levels and finishing details are exemplary. Upper floor is master bedroom with 6 piece ensuite, walk-in closet and office/den. The property is fully landscaped with private back yard and oversized garage. Offered largely furnished, GST paid.
This attractive mountain home is in mint condition with refinished hardwood floors, new paint and lighting, features 3 spacious bedrooms, plus games room and loft. Open living area with vaulted ceiling, floor to ceiling rock fireplace, soaring windows, beautiful kitchen with eating bar and stainless steel appliances, large 2 car garage and workshop. Enjoy the massive sundeck with stunning views, professional landscaping, a private yard backing onto forested ski terrain with you own ski trail in and large back deck with private hot tub. Separate self-contained 1 bedroom legal suite with one year lease in place. Conveniently located close to the village, ski lifts and golf course. GST is not applicable.
SOLD
202 KOOKABURRA LODGE | $250,000 The Kookaburra Lodge sets a new accommodation benchmark at Sun Peaks Resort with concrete construction, hard wearing yet luxurious finishes and high clearance underground parking. This centrally located intimate one bedroom condo with open design is well appointed with full kitchen and granite countertops, electric fireplace, steam shower, in suite laundry, ski and snowboard storage and comes fully furnished. Enjoy this great ski-in, ski-out location in the village with convenient access to restaurants and shopping. GST is applicable.
NEW LISTING
2427 FAIRWAYS DRIVE | $214,900
323 FIRESIDE LODGE | $ 159,900
404 HEARTHSTONE LODGE | $36,900
Gently sloping view lot backing onto forested ski terrain at the base of Mt. Morrisey with direct ski in access. Fully serviced lot with stunning mountain views and easy access with just a short walk to the village & chairlift. The Sun Peaks Golf Course is located across the street and the proposed West Morrisey chairlift is just steps away. Design your custom mountain home at your convenience, since there is no time line or pressure to build. Zoning also allows a 2 bedroom legal suite. Sun Peaks is BC Interiorʼs largest all season resort and is a growing mountain resort municipality.
This efficient studio is the perfect true ski-in, ski-out condo located in the heart of the Sun Peaks Village with everything you really need for comfort and accessibility with secure heated underground parking, inviting lobby with fireplace, and a central village location with an attractive assortment of commercial services on the ground level. Relax in front of your cozy fireplace and prepare meals in your full kitchen, and enjoy the shared outdoor hot tub with neighbours & friends. This condo has been updated with new rich laminate flooring throughout and will be available to move in this season. GST is not applicable.
This deluxe studio suite features a well-appointed kitchenette, cozy gas fireplace & is tastefully designed and furnished in a traditional mountain lodge motif using natural wood finishes, country pine furnishings and a rich, warm color palette to create an ambience of casual comfort. Great ski-in, ski-out village location, sleeps 4 comfortably with secure lockable owner storage, underground parking, shops & restaurants, exclusive fitness facility & two large outdoor hot tubs. Owners enjoy a generous 180 days per year & earn rental income to offset expenses. GST applies.
NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
SOLD
NEW LISTING
3 MCGILLIVRAY CREEK | $619,000 Ski-in / ski-out, customized 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom end unit townhouse featuring a generous window package with vaulted ceiling, tile flooring throughout and heated on main floor and all bathrooms, a custom gourmet kitchen with numerous built-ins and recessed lighting. Two master bedrooms with ensuites and a bonus room upstairs. The extra-large sundeck off the main floor is set among the trees with views of Tod Mountain. Downstairs features a spacious family room/bunk room with separate entrance and patio with convenient access to green space and valley trail, private garage with additional storage space and extra surface parking, offered largely furnished with GST paid.
11 ALPINE GREENS | $334,900 Ground level, bright & spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo fronting directly onto the second fairway and Valley Trail. This sunny Golf Course location is beautiful in both summer and winter, with views of Mt. Morrisey and easy ski-in access via the street. Features heated tile floors in kitchen & bathrooms, cozy wood burning fireplace with beautiful fieldstone & timber mantle, natural wood raised panel cabinetry, private patio and extra storage. This condo is being sold partially furnished with hot tub, and is available for quick occupancy. GST not applicable.
2219 SUNBURST DRIVE | $759,000 3 bdrm resort home approved for nightly rentals with large one bedroom legal revenue suite. Features bright spacious floor plan with open kitchen, dining room and living room with access to large wraparound sundeck with sunken hot tub. Great ski-in, ski-out, location with stunning mountain views and dramatic south facing floor to ceiling window package. Open loft area and spacious master bedroom on private upper level. This low maintenance, fully furnished home is in a great location with an easy walk down side of the ski run into the village and all resort amenities. GST not applicable.
NEW LISTING
PT NW 1/4 – WEST SHORE HUFF LAKE | $389,000
2577 MOUNTAIN VIEW DRIVE | $189,900
Picturesque 52 acres along the west shore of Huff Lake with over 2500 feet of waterfront. The views up and down the valley and overlooking the lake are stunning where nature and wildlife surround you. Explore the possibilities and enjoy the beautiful scenery this acreage offers with natural grass meadows and mature trees. Several nice building sites with hydro and telephone close by or it could be the perfect place for someone looking to be off-grid. You will appreciate the peace and quiet this area offers and you are only 30 minutes to Kamloops or 35 minutes to Sun Peaks Resort. This would make a great recreational or year round location for someone who is seeking privacy and enjoys the outdoors.
This is one of Sun Peaksʼ largest residential building lots conveniently located at the base of Mt. Morrisey with great ski-in access and stunning mountain views. This quiet cul-de-sac location is very private backing onto forested ski terrain and offers a great family friendly environment. With no time limit to build out you can relax & take time to plan your perfect mountain getaway. Mountain View Drive has design guidelines in place and the residential zoning allows for a two bedroom revenue suite. Underground services are installed to the lot line and GST is not applicable.
56 CRYSTAL FOREST | $379,000 Great opportunity for your family to have the perfect 2 bdrm, 3 bath condo. Location, location with fabulous mountain views and just steps away from the Mt. Morrisey ski lift. This 2 level condo features a cozy river rock fireplace, open galley kitchen with eating bar, heated tile floors in entrances, bathrooms & kitchen, and convenient weather protected access from your 2 underground parking stalls to your back door. The master bedroom has a three piece ensuite bath & private sundeck. Enjoy backyard access from the second level to an inviting inner courtyard and covered patio area with private ski locker. Offered fully furnished with private hot tub & GST paid.
WWW.SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 20
sunpeaksnews.com
Vol 15 Issue 10 September 29 — October 26