Volume 17 Issue 9

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YOURS FREE TO TAKE HOME

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 09

SEPTEMBER 6 — OCTOBER 4, 2019

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

JOB OPPORTUNITY AT

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ROB AND TANIA O’TOOLE LAUGH OUTSIDE THEIR CAFE IN THE VILLAGE. Photo SPIN

An ongoing journey to environmental sustainability NIKKI FREDRIKSON

ON DAY ONE OF TAKING OVER AS OWNERS OF VERTICAL CAFÉ AT THE BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY, ROB AND TANIA O’TOOLE KNEW THEY WANTED

TO MAKE CHANGES TO THEIR NEW BUSINESS TO REDUCE THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT. THEY STARTED WITH A SIMPLE RECYCLING PROGRAM, AND THEIR GREEN INITIATIVES HAVE ONLY GROWN FROM THERE. “If you’ve got an opportunity to do things better than before, why not do that,” said Rob.

“We taught our kids to be very environmentally friendly wherever possible and recycle and reuse.” When the couple took over the business they were shocked to find their was no recycling system in place. They immediately added two blue recycling bins. Since then the café has grown to sorting their recyclables and taking them

to the transfer station twice a week. Unlike businesses in larger communities that have garbage and recycling collection, the family breaks down the recyclables and stores them in their garage at home before taking them to the station. In doing so, Rob calculated that after a year they will have kept 1,000 pounds of waste out of the landfill.

“For us it was looking at the place we live where we get to make our living. It’s important if you’re going to make your living here you might want to make a little bit of effort. People come here for the outdoor experience so try and protect that,” he said.

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LOCAL NEWS

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Phone | 250.578.0276 For comments, questions, concerns email: editor@sunpeaksnews.com Email your classifieds or ads to: sales@sunpeaksnews.com

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CONTINUED FROM COVER According to the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, as of 2018 nearly ninety per cent of Canada’s plastic waste wasn’t recycled or recovered which resulted in 1.82 megatonnes of CO2 equivalent greenhouse gas emissions. Now comfortable in their role as owners, the O’Tooles are also working to reduce their emissions and have introduced earthfriendly takeaway containers and recently brought in biodegradable cutlery made with a cornstarch base. “We switched to biodegradable, disposable cutlery, which is step one. We eventually don’t even want to have biodegradable. I’d like to go to something that’s like a

JEAN STRONG

EDITOR jean@sunpeaksnews.com

REPORTER nikki@sunpeaksnews.com

CONTRIBUTORS Helen Davies Emily Perrins Mel Rothenburger

AS WORK BEGAN ON THE SUN PEAKS CENTRE EARLIER THIS YEAR, LIKE WITH MANY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS, ADDITIONAL EXPENSES BEGAN TO RISE. The total cost of the project is estimated to be nearly $9 million. A large chunk, $6 million, will come from a Federal Gas Tax grant, $2 million borrowed from the

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

PHOTO SPIN

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can be seen across all aspects of their cafe, even in their supplier decisions to support local when possible. However working with small local business can be challenging when it comes to shipping to a rural community. From bread made in Kamloops at Craig’s Bakery to oats from Rogers Foods in Armstrong, B.C. and Haskap jam from just down the road in Heffley Creek. “Overall, every time we make a decision, whether it’s a product we’re going to cook and serve or a change of equipment or any of those things, is how something is going to come into the business and what’s the impact and effect on the environment.” While the café has been working hard to reduce their effect on the environment,

Rob said he thinks there’s still room to improve throughout the community. “I think we still need to work on that. There’s a handful of people that are hardcore travel mug users but there’s a lot of people who don’t, hence the fact that we go through a lot of cups.” He noted the café does offer a discount for people who bring in their own mugs as an incentive and confirmed their currently working on creating Vertical Café to go mugs. As a family owned and operated business, the O’Toole’s commitment to give back to the community is a driving force behind their environmental focus. “When you’re bringing up the next generation it’s what are you leaving behind for them? What’s the legacy going to be.”

Additional funding secured for Sun Peaks Centre

Jean Strong

Nikki Fredikson

renewable resource.” Investing in products that are more efficient, the café has had some much needed upgrades to their appliances as they look to cut down energy waste wherever possible. They have already replaced the sandwich station and an old fridge; their next purchase will be a new convection oven which is 50 per cent larger than the current one but operates off almost the same amount of kilowatts. “That’s our next step. We’re looking to switch to a new, still electric, but new convection oven that will hold double the volume and use the same amount of energy. So the oven doesn’t have to run as much, we can shut it off,” said Rob. The commitment to being environmentally conscious

regional district and the remainder from reserves. Now the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) will provide an additional $300,000 from Gas Tax funding to cover unforeseen expenses for drainage and bearing soil issues. It will be given to the municipality with the agreement that all Area P residents, including Kamloops, Chase, McLure, Heffley Creek and a number of other small communities, will receive the same rates as

Sun Peaks residents. Area P director, Mel Rothenburger, brought the recommendation to the TNRD’s board of directors meeting on Aug. 15. “I’m convinced the Sun Peaks Centre will provide significant regional benefit, including and especially to nearby Area P residents,” he said to TNRD staff when requesting it come before the board. “It’s worthy of note that Director Raine (Sun Peaks’ mayor, Al Raine) has committed to including

Area P residents in the same user fee rates as Sun Peaks residents. The centre will go far beyond a skating rink and will provide major publicevent amenities and facilities for regional residents.” In 2014 the TNRD provided $50,000 from the same fund to help construct the outdoor arena which will be enveloped by the new buildings. The municipality also added around $5,500 to the project with the purchase of boards and glass from the CN Centre in Prince George, B.C.

MUNICIPAL SECURITY CAMERAS UPDATED Updated night definition to capture license plates Security cameras at each entrance to the community should now operate better in the dark after a $ 7,0 0 0 u p g r a d e f r o m S u n Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM). Cameras installed in late 2 01 6 fo r a r o u n d $ 4 0 ,0 0 0 (one at each entrance and one near the intersection near the Kookaburra Lodge) proved to be challenging. B e fo r e f i b r e o p t i c i n t e r n e t was installed in the village connection was weak and

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

image quality s u f fe r e d . With the newly installed fibre, the quality improved slightly but lacked visual clarity in the dark and the cameras didn’t capture license plate numbers. The two upgraded cameras will be high definition, said SPMRM chief administrative officer Rob Bremner, and capture license plates as well as have a higher quality image at night. “ I t ’s a t n i g h t t h e y ’ r e a p r o b l e m a n d i t ’s a t n i g h t

when our issues are,” B r e m n e r s a i d . “ We t h o u g h t with the location we had it covered...from day one we started to see where the holes are.” The old cameras will be reused in other locations in the resort. Bremner added installation should take place early September in order to be operational b e fo r e the shoulder season which can see an uptick in crime.

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YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS

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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. *PREC Personal Real Estate Corporation.

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

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LOCAL NEWS

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Kamloops Search and Rescue given a permanent home EMILY PERRINS IT’S BEEN AN EXCITING SUMMER FOR KAMLOOPS SEARCH AND RESCUE (KSAR) WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW PERMANENT PREMISES FOR THE VOLUNTEER-RUN ORGANIZATION. KSAR ASSISTS IN RECOVERING LOST AND INJURED PEOPLE, AND IS INVOLVED IN A GROWING NUMBER OF EMERGENCIES IN THE REGION, INCLUDING THE RECENT HIGH PROFILE SEARCH FOR MISSING SUN PEAKS RESIDENT, RYAN SHTUKA. Despite being a stalwart component of local emergency response, the group has operated out of temporary bases since inception in the 1970s. Most recently it’s based out of a disused City of Kamloops building in Mission Flats, which the group has outgrown. “The city has been kind enough to allow us to use [their building] and they didn’t have to,” explained KSAR search manager, Alan Hobler. “But it’s definitely not suitable for the long term vision, how the team’s going and for current needs…we need some room to grow into.” Thanks to Kamloops’ Cooper Family Foundation, that dream

is becoming a reality. The former site of the North Shore’s Dirty Jersey pub and adjacent bowling alley is being renovated for KSAR as the Cooper Centre, with all building renovations and cost of rent covered by the foundation’s Wings Above Kamloops. The foundation raises money through real estate projects and uses the proceeds for causes in the local area. The vision of Wings Above Kamloops, according to its website, is community supporting community. Nelly Dever, the foundation’s president and CEO, first announced the project in May after she proposed the idea to KSAR in 2018. Dever told Kamloops This Week it was an easy decision to pick KSAR as a beneficiary because they give selflessly and never ask for anything back. Hobler described KSAR’s initial reaction to the proposal as one of disbelief. “It was hard to believe that a private foundation was actually going to come forward and donate that kind of money to help us build our dream facility,” he said. The 11,780 square foot space will house KSAR’s vehicles and

KSAR MEMBERS TRAIN IN THEIR CURRENT SPACE. Photo KSAR

equipment all under one roof for the first time. Previously they were stored at multiple locations due to space restrictions. The Cooper Centre will also be able to accommodate KSAR’s growing training requirements, secondary to the group’s growing membership and call volume. There will be

a command centre, debriefing room, showers and more meeting and social space than they currently have. “We don’t have chairs in our current location,” Hobler explained. “We have two chairs in a very small office, but when we’re with other members you don’t have anywhere to sit. Now

it’s going to feel like they have a place to belong. It’s going to feel like home, finally.” KSAR will share the site with the B.C. Search Dog Association, a daycare, parkade and a new Tim Hortons. Hobler says the group hopes to move into their new home in February 2020.

If enough residents are interested a captain and cocaptain will be chosen to share information with members. “There’s a fair amount of minor vandalism, tagging, minor thefts. It’s just minor tagging and bike thefts. It’s just people may still be leaving valuables in their car and thinking ‘oh it’s

Heffley, I don’t have to lock it up,’ but I think it’s important we do. “We certainly don’t want any vigilantism...if anyone does see anything suspicious they directly call the RCMP.” Anyone interested in being a part of the program can contact Chobater at bchobater@ kamloops.ca.

HEFFLEY CREEK CONSIDERS BLOCK WATCH AFTER MINOR CRIMES

Neighbours are helping neighbours in Heffley Creek as the community considers becoming a Block Watch member. Heffley Creek’s unofficial mayor and treasurer and event organizer for the Heffley Creek Hall, Deb McDougall, said after a bout of minor vandalism she arranged a meeting with a Block Watch representative.

Representative Ben Chobater explained to those gathered that the program encourages residents to watch out for their neighbour’s property as if it’s their own. McDougall said she was happy to see all areas of the town represented at the initial meeting. “Upper Heffley, main Heffley and lower Heffley, on the other side of

the tracks, were there,” she said. “The community can determine the size of the block.” She added she thinks the program would benefit homeowners with a potential decrease in home insurance, increasing awareness and the sense of community with the addition of signs declaring them a Block Watch community.

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LOCAL NEWS

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New homes nearly complete after busy summer of building JEAN STRONG

A BUSY SUMMER OF CONSTRUCTION IS COMING TO A CLOSE AT SUN PEAKS. SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY SUN PEAKS RECENTLY RELEASED A SUMMER CONSTRUCTION AND MARKET UPDATE NEWSLETTER OUTLINING WORK ON PROJECTS AROUND THE VILLAGE. The site for Burfield West, at the far end of the West Village, has been cleared and prepared to start construction of both commercial and residential units, including a luxurious penthouse apartment. Also to the west, at Peaks West, the first phase of construction is expected to be complete before opening day of the ski season.

ECHO LANDING, IN THE EAST VILLAGE, WILL BE MOSTLY COMPLETE BY THE END OF THE YEAR. Photo Sotheby’s International Realty Sun Peaks

Commercial spaces in the buildings are expected to include a market, pharmacy, restaurant, fitness space and offices. Echo Landing, in the

East Village, is closer to completion every day. Currently 18 owners have received keys and, Sotheby’s said 80 per cent of units should be occupied by the

end of the year. With Elevation and Burfield West still offering units for sale supply has increased and, according to Sotheby’s, more new

homes are being added to the market. However, they added, fewer homes are being added as more families chose to live in the community full time.

Valley cell service improves JEAN STRONG AFTER YEARS OF L O B BY I N G F R O M L O C A L R E S I D E N T S A N D WO R K FROM THE HEFFLEY LAKE COMMUNITY AS S O C I AT I O N , TELUS H AS COMPLETED I N S TA L L AT I O N OF TECHNOLOGY TO I N C R E AS E SERVICE ALONG HEFFLEY LOUIS CREEK RD. FROM HEFFLEY CREEK TO SUN PEAKS. A spokesperson for the company said nine small cell sites were installed on top of hydro poles in the area to add and enhance coverage along the road and surrounding areas like Whitecroft. Heffley Lake residents have also reported improved cell service. “This enhanced services means that residents and visitors have more reliable connectivity when they are driving along the road i n t o S u n P e a k s ,” s a i d t h e spokesperson. “A s well as in their community, which is not only a benefit for customers who

CELL SERVICE HAS INCREASED IN THE VALLEY. Photo Jonas Lee

want to stay seamlessly connected to their friends and family or work, and it also enhances the safety o f t r a v e l .”

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COMMUNITY

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Mountain Town News STRESSED BEAR SWIPES AT HIKER AT LAKE LOUISE LAKE LOUISE, Alta. – Can wait staff, hotel clerks, and others stressed after a long, busy summer identify with this bear at Lake Louise? It had encountered people while feeding on buffalo berries. Trying to avoid the throngs of tourists, it swam across the glacier-fed lake. Emerging from the chilled water, the bear encountered a 24-year-old man who was hiking on a horse trail. The hiker immediately called a dispatcher for Parks Canada, seeking counsel in how to react to the unhappy bear. It followed the hiker and, at one point, it rushed the hiker, nipping the man on his leg. It was a scratch, not a bite.

The hiker declined treatment at a clinic, but sometimes bear-human encounters turn out much worse. The Rocky Mountain Outlook recalled the death of a hiker who encountered a grizzly bear on a trail in the Canmore area in 2005. “Although inadvertently and not on purpose, the bear was very clearly harassed trying to get out of the way of tourists, and eventually something flipped in the bear and it decided to follow a person,” said Stephen Herrero, a professor emeritus at the University of Calgary and global expert on bears attacks and safety. “For a bear in those circumstances, it was either fight or flight. This bear was exploring its options.”

COLUMNIST VIEWS

TNRD’s rules on use of RVs for housing are based on safety MEL ROTHENBURGER TNRD REPORT director.mrothenburger@tnrd.ca Mel Rothenburger is the TNRD Director for Electoral Area P, including Whitecroft and Heffley Creek. He was the mayor of Kamloops from 1999-2005 and a former newspaper editor.

THE TNRD HAS BEEN TAKING QUITE A BIT OF HEAT THE PAST COUPLE OF WEEKS OVER THE USE OF RVS AS PERMANENT RESIDENCES SO I’LL TRY TO EXPLAIN WHAT’S GOING ON. The criticism comes from those who think putting rules on such use represents an infringement of individual rights and a bureaucratic denial of an important housing option. A news release from the TNRD reminding people of the rules around RVs came as a surprise to them, but in fact they’ve been in place for a long time. The news release took a soft tone. “From travel trailers, fifth wheels and campers to ‘park model’ units, the TNRD Development Services Department is raising awareness about Recreational Vehicle (RV) use in the region,” the release began.

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It went on to say that the use of RVs as year-round and seasonal dwellings in rural areas is increasing. “Some have had their wheels removed and others have had additions such as decks, roofs, and utility rooms; however, the use of an RV as a dwelling has never been permitted within the TNRD.” RVs, it pointed out, are not designed for such use. When they’re turned into permanent dwellings they often lack proper septic systems and carry the risk of electrical overload or carbon monoxide poisoning. They are often eyesores close to neighbouring residences the owners of which pay taxes, while the RV owners don’t. Back in May, the development services department reported to the board on the RV situation. That followed a meeting of department members with nine other regional districts and provincial ministry staff around B.C. housing policies. The meeting heard that the use of RVS for housing is a growing concern across the south and central parts of the province. Some have been put on Crown land;

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

THE INCOME-AFFORDABILITY GAP IN THE PARK CITY AREA PARK CITY, Utah – Just prior to Labor Day, a non-profit in Park City released a study that showed a disconcerting gap between housing costs and wages in the service-based laboring class of Park City. The Park City Community Foundation used a calculator developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to show that a living wage for one working adult with a companion and two children is $26.89 per hour. The poverty wage was calculated to be $12.07 per hour. And the formal minimum wage—some service-sector jobs do pay $12 to $14 an hour—in Utah is $7.25 per hour. “The service industry is one of the largest economic drivers

in our community, yet those employees receive some of the lowest compensation. Even though some hourly rates in that industry are now in the $12-14 range, they have not kept pace with significant rent and living cost increases,” the report said. The Park Record said the new report identifies the interrelated issues of affordability of housing and low wages as the top two issues under the heading of social equity. As for what Park City’s government can do, however, the report offered no concrete steps.

with 103 beds will likely be completed by 2021. And more is in the pipeline, reported Pique Newsmagazine. But is it enough? Jack Crompton, the mayor of Whistler, said no, the job is never completed. “It’s fair to say we all wake up with housing at the front of our minds nowadays,” he said. He said housing isn’t something the municipality “fixes,” but rather a priority to which it remains committed.

THE NEVER-ENDING QUEST TO DELIVER HOUSING IN WHISTLER

WHISTLER, B.C. – New affordable housing has been going online in Whistler. Two projects with 44 units and 91 beds between them will be available this year, and yet another project

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WE’RE OPEN DAILY others have been put on private land, sometimes without the land owner’s permission. Such RVs are contrary to zoning bylaws and can violate safety conditions under the B.C. Building Code, the Motor Vehicle Act and environmental regulations. While TNRD staff told the board it intended to step up enforcement where necessary, it didn’t suggest a sweeping crackdown. “The enforcement of regulation is best done through education, information, and voluntary compliance. Regulations need to be explained and those affected, allowed reasonable time to comply,” it said. “However, if compliance is not met, only the worst cases should be considered for legal action.” It’s worth noting that staff estimate there are about 100 known non-compliant RVs in the entire region, and that bylaw violations are acted upon on a complaints basis. Some of the reaction has suggested the bylaws setting standards for RV use are unjust and even “reprehensible,” accompanied in some cases by a misunderstanding of actual bylaw requirements and intentions on enforcement. Clearly there’s a need for more housing opportunities. People naturally get concerned about housing issues but, with all due respect, I don’t think the need for housing options should mean substandard, non-compliant housing. Building codes and other regulations exist to ensure the safety of inhabitants. They’re not tax grabs or bureaucratic overreach.

I think when people understand what’s behind the need for these requirements, they’ll be more accepting of them and more willing to meet them. That’s what was behind the TNRD’s news release.

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TOURISMNEWS

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Jumbo Valley to stay wild Jumbo Glacier Resort faces major setback NIKKI FREDRIKSON & JEAN STRONG JUMBO VALLEY, KNOWN FOR ITS BREATHTAKING VIEWS AND SPIRITUAL INDIGENOUS SIGNIFICANCE, WILL STAY WILD AFTER A DECISION FROM THE B.C. COURT OF APPEAL. Should developers of Jumbo Glacier Resort wish to proceed in the East Kootenay area it would need to be re-assessed. In August the court reinstated the decision to expire the environmental assessment certificate after a lower court had overturned it. Meredith Hamstead, from the Jumbo Creek Conservation Society, said it was an important step toward sustainable protection of ecosystems and cultural and social values. She added it was also key work toward developing a larger Indigenous Protected and Conserved area. “They have really three avenues open to them,” she said of the developers wishing to create the resort. “One is to reapply for an environmental assessment certificate. Two would be to try and come in under the threshold for environmental assessment review, and three would be to apply for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada. That would be to appeal the August 9 decision of the B.C. Court of Appeals...All three of those avenues are very

complex and none of them are an easy road forward.” Hamstead said the conservation society felt good about the decision and that it was a win for them. “We are feeling very good about the recent court decision, and we are feeling very good about the recent news from the federal government regarding Ktunaxa land stewardship.” She said rather than focusing on the future they’re enjoying being at their strongest point in the 30 year campaign to protect the area. While Hamstead, the society and many others, are against the development of Jumbo Glacier Resort they are passionate skiers. “As the Jumbo Creek Conservation Society has said for many many years, it’s time to focus investment in B.C.’s existing ski areas who are facing change in the tourism industry, change in tourism appetites, climate change...Simply creating new ski resorts is not going to address the challenges that existing ski resorts face in British Columbia. “I think, as a lifelong passionate skier, Jumbo was never a good idea. But Panorama and Kimberly, Fernie, Kicking Horse Resort, Red Mountain and Sun Peaks, and all of these ski areas that exist have the support of their communities and they have existing infrastructure and there’s no controversy about them as far as land conservation. They exist and we support them.”

THE AREA HAS IMPORTANT INDIGENOUS CONNECTIONS. Photo Katie Watt

HIKERS AND ADVENTURERS COME FROM ALL OVER TO ENJOY THE SERENITY. Photo Katie Watt

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COMMUNITY Behind the gates of Tod Mountain Thoroughbreds

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A LONG DRIVEWAY WINDS PAST ROLLING GREEN FIELDS. Photo SPIN

ONE OF THE BARNS ON THE PROPERTY. Photo SPIN

JEAN STRONG

MANY A HORSE OBSESSED CHILD (OR ADULT) HAS STARED LONGINGLY AT THE LUSH ROLLING FIELDS OF TOD MOUNTAIN THOROUGHBREDS AS THEY DROVE BY AND TRIED TO CATCH A GLIMPSE OF A HORSE OR BARN TUCKED AT THE BOTTOM OF A HILL. Rae and Ron Fawcett first purchased the property just months before major development of Tod Mountain was announced. The couple had planned to purchase a few acres for their four horses as they wanted to move up from Kamloops. Instead they found themselves on 140 acres with a small barn, hay sheds and a family home. As the resort grew so did the farm. The couple worked tirelessly to fence paddocks, build an extension on the barn and a new barn, build a

covered round pen, add shelters for their horses and turn a marshy area into an aesthetically pleasing pond to welcome swimmers in the summer and skaters in the winter. Eventually they built their dream home on the property. As the property developed so did their business. The couple breed some of the best race horses in the province, and in the country. They’ve taken home Canada’s Breeder of the Year once and B.C. Breeder of the Year multiple times, a testament to the quality leaving the farm. As they slow down their operations, eight working brood mares and a few more retired ones live with their foals. Previously they had up to 30 brood mares at a time and as many as 120 horses total on the property. Some others are boarded at the facility, including from a young rodeo champion who lives in one of the homes on the property with her family. No stallions stay on site; brood

mares make a long trip to Kentucky each spring to be bred in hopes of foals born around January 1 each year. Horses born on the farm are sent for training in Vancouver at around two-years-old and others are sold across North America. Over the years the couple’s horses have seen great success at races, mostly in Vancouver, B.C. But for Rae it hasn’t been just about purses won. “My favourite part is just raising a good horse and having people say your horses feet are tough or compliment what we do here. Just knowing that we’ve raised a good product.” Despite the success of many horses there have been challenges. “You’re constantly making decisions that are going to affect your breeding program ,” she said. “You have to have the knowledge... you can have some really hard times but you have to say that it will get better and that’s that.” They’ve also seen the decline of a

once booming industry. “With the advent of casinos, off track betting, computer betting...all that stuff has drawn people away. It used to be the only spot in town to gamble, every night people would bet around $1 million, now it’s around $350,000. Just like the yellow pages phone book it’s going by the wayside.” After years of feeding, exercising, training and more, the couple are cutting back and spending more time with their six children and 14

grandchildren. “It’s really hard to promote farming nowadays. You have to get a really good day job first,” Rae said. “When we bought this place we both loved to work. Now it’s becoming a real job to keep up with it. “It’s been a great life for us here. We’ve enjoyed the farm and we’ve enjoyed watching Sun Peaks develop. It’s been an incredible life and an incredible experience having this farm.”

HORSES ARE TRAINED NATURALLY, RUNNING ACROSS THE HILLS. Photo SPIN

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VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4


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GET OUT THERE

Three great hikes to take you into fall

DOGS AND HUMANS ALIKE ENJOY THE VIEWS OF HEFFLEY LAKE. Photo SPIN

NIKKI FREDRIKSON

FALL, OR BETTER KNOWN AS OFFSEASON IN A SKI COMMUNITY LIKE SUN PEAKS, IS OFTEN MET WITH ANTICIPATION OF THE POWDER DAYS TO COME BUT ALSO A SAD REALIZATION THAT OUR FAVOURITE SUMMER ACTIVITIES ARE COMING TO AN END. HOWEVER, THE SEASON IS A GREAT TIME TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF COOLER TEMPERATURES AND HEAD OUT ON A HIKE TO CONDITION YOUR LEGS FOR THE UPCOMING TURNS. Here are three of our favourites to get you going: This fall we’re spoiled with the addition of two extra bonus weekends keeping the chairlift turning to the end of the month at Sun Peaks. Starting in our backyard check out Gil’s trail. This pathway is 2.4 km one way of steady incline which takes you through trees and along some iconic ski runs. A quick trip to the top and you’ll be rewarded with a view of Tod Lake, gaining sense of accomplishment without being too tired. This trail is about a 45 minute trip one way, so if you add in a few stops for photos along the way you’re looking at a quick two-hour excursion. This hike is great if you’re looking for a relaxing end to your day. The Gil’s trail is the perfect after work hike or kick-off to your weekend. Our next recommendation is for those who are looking to escape from their busy lives

and be immersed in nature. Just a short drive down the road you’ll find Embleton Mountain. This mountain is covered in marked trails with many possible routes and great views of the valley and Heffley Lake. Wanting to be right in the forest? Hike the fence trail to the lookout. This trail has some steep, challenging sections but as you’re surrounded by trees the entire way it makes the climb worth it when you get high enough to see the lake below. The Embleton trail system is dog friendly with crossings built over fence lines so pups can safely explore alongside you. Look out for the cows who are out grazing and enjoying the mountainside. The final hike we recommend is farther from Sun Peaks but makes a great half-day trip with the family. Gibraltar Rock is nestled along the shore of Paul Lake and has multiple access points. We like starting from the beach which takes you along a well-maintained trail with a constant incline roughly 280m in elevation. Views are limited until you reach the top where you’re treated to a full view of Paul Lake. This hike is also great for furry companions. Ours loved all the sticks he was able to collect along the way to the top. We recommend this hike to anyone who wants to make a full day of it. Pack a lunch and have a picnic at the dog beach and let your pet cool off in the lake after your climb. Grab a friend, pack a day bag, and we’ll see you on the trails.

GIBRALTAR ROCK IS STEEP BUT SHORT WITH REWARDING VIEWS. Photo SPIN

PAUL LAKE FROM THE TOP OF GIBRALTAR ROCK. Photo SPIN

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

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GET OUT THERE

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A shot back in time NIKKI FREDRIKSON

WALKING INTO THE B.C. BLACK POWDER RENDEZVOUS CAMP I DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT. THE FIRST THINGS I NOTICED WERE THE ECHO OF GUNFIRE, THE HISTORIC CLOTHING, THE TENTED COMMUNITY AND THE LAUGHTER OF ATTENDEES. The 10-day event, which took place at the Heffley Creek shooting range Aug. 21 to Sept. 2, is believed to be the largest of its kind in Canada and typically sees 120 to 125 camps with nearly 500 attendees. Participants are from clubs dedicated to using historic firearms from the early to mid 19th century and even dress in period clothing. “We essentially recreate the period of the fur trade which is what caused western North America to ever be explored (by Europeans) in the first place,” said Tim Smith, known in the community as Feather Belly. This year was the 30th anniversary in Heffley Creek, and as I walked through what is known as the primitive camp (a recreation of fur trade camps), I quickly learned the event mirrors

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a family reunion more than a competitive shooting event. “It’s something that you love and something that you get into. It’s essentially a big extended family, they’re family by choice is what we call it,” said Smith. Throughout the 10 days different clubs host competitive events like pistol shooting, archery and knife throwing. With attendees as young as toddlers up to those in their nineties, there’s an organized competition for everyone to participate in. “This is the best place you can bring kids, all of these eyes keep an eye on them,” said Smith. “Once they get older they get fed at their camps in the morning and take off and they may see their parents at dinner, but nobody has to worry about them.” During my visit to the campsite I met Little Red, a woman from Vancouver Island, who has attended the event for 24 years. Dressed in clothes inspired by the 1840s, she said it’s fun to not to be yourself and come to the event and relax. “It was fun right from the start,” she said. “We were having fun collecting stuff, and we’ve always been interested in antiques.”

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

THE 10 DAY BC RENDEZVOUS EVENT IS BELIEVED TO BE THE LARGEST EVENT IN WESTERN CANADA. Photo SPIN

Part of that fun is the tradition of receiving a Rendezvous name, such as Little Red, which was bestowed on her because she cleaned the washrooms at her club with a little red wagon. “We have had official namers. I don’t think we have a living one left anymore…generally, it’s from doing something foolish or something you become known for,” said Smith. First-time attendees Aimee and Shawn Murray were eager to earn their Rendezvous names. They stumbled upon the event on YouTube and decided to

check it out. “We were just scrolling through YouTube and we seen a Rendezvous clip and Aimee said that looks like it would be a fun thing to do and we looked up to see if there was any in B.C. and we found this one,” said Murray. Despite being nervous as they didn’t know anyone, the couple was met with open arms and brought into the black powder community with Aimee even receiving a small firearm to use at the range. She said the primitive camp made her think about what it was like during

the fur trade and added they’re already planning to come back next year and will stay in the primitive camp rather than the modern camp with motorized campers. “For me, the costumes are incredible and the whole neverbeing-too-old to dress up is pretty fantastic. (It’s) stepping back in time,” she said The black powder community meets for Rendezvous every long weekend from May into the fall and always welcomes new members to come to see what it’s all about.


Trading offices for mountains CHRITCHLEY AND HER FAMILY. Photo Supplied

NIKKI FREDRIKSON

SITTING IN A PAYPHONE BOOTH IN VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ON HER WAY TO PHOTOGRAPH A WEDDING, NANCY CRITCHLEY RECALLED THE MOMENT SHE AND HER HUSBAND, HUGH, MADE THE DECISION TO BECOME SUN PEAKS HOMEOWNERS. “We had always been fans of Sun Peaks, and we had come there a couple of times renting,” she said. “My husband had quite a few friends that he worked with who also had property at Sun Peaks. It kind of became a destination of choice for us.” Following her husband’s cancer diagnosis and treatment, the couple decided there was no time like the present and purchased their mountain home in 2009. “Sometimes you don’t get second chances, and we just decided we really wanted to have a place there and really wanted to live there more often than not.” At the time Critchley was working as director of communications for United Way in the Alberta Capital region and was dipping her toes into transitioning to a career as a photographer. She took classes and worked to build her craft from a hobby to a business. She started by shooting photos on holidays with her family before moving onto family portraits for friends. Soon they told her it was time she started charging.

“Reculanty I started charging a small fee for my photography services, and then I thought if I’m really going to do this I better jump in with both feet,” she said. Critchley was working two full-time jobs. It wasn’t until her eldest daughter told her to pick one that she transitioned fully out of communications. “I had built it, and I had worked so hard at it, and I was getting a lot of business. I was really enjoying myself and I thought ‘you know, it’s time’. So I clicked my heels together and I jumped, and I’ve never looked back.” She has been working as a full-time photographer since, specializing in wedding, corporate, and family photography out of both Alberta and British Columbia since December 2016. Cautious about her bookings, Critchley has two sets of everything. She often travels between the two provinces for weddings, scheduling her time at Sun Peaks around her B.C.based bookings. “That’s the nature of the beast. That’s the nature of being a wedding photographer, spring, summer, fall are my busy times,” she stated. When asked about what she loves about wedding photography her tone changed. She eagerly explained she enjoys getting to know the families and added some of her best work is done when she puts the camera away and helps her clients destress on their big day. “One of the things I always tell people is at the end of your

wedding you have two things; you have photos and you have a spouse, and you better love both.” She also believes in the importance of capturing candid moments couples don’t necessarily think they want, but cherish afterwards. “You don’t only want to remember how you looked on your wedding day, you want to remember how you felt and when you look at photos that capture those candid moments, like the moment the bride walks down the aisle with her father. That last moment with her dad, sometimes those are very emotional,” said Critchley. She admitted her favourite part of the day is after the ceremony when she gets to spend time with the newlyweds and getting to witness the moment they realize they’re married. When asked about how she handles the stress that accompanies wedding photography, she said that there’s nothing that can’t be fixed or looked after. “There’s always a lot of nerves that go along with weddings. I still have those butterflies when I first start shooting a wedding because I want to make sure that I get it right. I feel like that just keeps me on my toes.” While capturing some of people’s most important life moments, Critchley said she’s seen enough stress in her life in the professional world to know that you can’t let it get to you. She operates her business with the mantra “you’re only as good as your last mistake” and

CHRITCHLEY OUTSIDE HER SUN PEAKS HOME. Photo SPIN

stays humble. While Critchley still works when she’s in the mountain town she said Sun Peaks is the place where they come to unwind, adding the community is their retirement plan. “We chose Sun Peaks because of the hometown feel but still with the world class amenities.” Becoming a local has made

them both happy. She said she likes that when people come to visit the couple she can show them the best of the community and when she’s working a wedding in the resort being five minutes from her hot tub is an added bonus. “I’m proud of the ski resort we have here and the hometown feel.”

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

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ARTS

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KSAR dogs headed for big screen JEAN STRONG

KAMLOOPS SEARCH AND R E S C U E ( KS A R ) W I L L B E HIGHLIGHTED IN A SHORT D O C U M E N TA RY S H O W I N G THE LIVES OF THE DOGS O F KS A R . Thanks to a $55,000 grant from Te l u s ’ Storyhive p r o g r a m , Je n n i f e r S t a h n , A n t h o n y S t a h n a n d Ve s t a Giles will follow three dogs and their handlers. One new puppy trying to pass assessment, a young dog that already passed puppy assessment

and a validated dog trying to stay validated will be featured. The documentary will show what goes into training the pups and what motivates their volunteer handlers. Currently KSAR has two validated dogs on its team, out of around 15 in the province. The deadline for a complete film is June 1, 2020. It will be released to the public shortly after. THE FILM WILL FOLLOW TASEKO ON THE JOURNEY TO ASSESSMENT AND VALIDATION. Photo KSAR

Pints and poses combines fitness and socialization JEAN STRONG YO G A E N T H U S I AS T S A N D FIRST TIMERS ALIKE ARE F L O C K I N G T O C A H I LT Y CREEK KITCHEN & TA P R O O M O N T U E S DAY NIGHTS. Since the Pints and Poses program started in May, classes were sold out and they quickly added a second class on Thursday. For $20 a class or $70

for four, participants are guided through a Baptiste P o w e r Yo g a c l a s s a n d rewarded with a cold beer or cider. Instructor Amy Atkinson said the class can be modified for all levels and experience. Atkinson is a new Shift Power Yo g a teacher, certified Baptiste Power Yo g a t e a c h e r a n d t h e owner of Shift Power Yo g a K a m l o o p s .

THE By

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One of the restaurant’s o w n e r s , Yo l a n d a D y e , s a i d they are looking forward to greeting new faces as the class continues into the fall. “(They will continue) as long as there is interest a n d a t t e n d a n c e ,” s h e s a i d . “With the new studio opening this upcoming season we hope to create partnerships along the way and still cater to this type of event.

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“I wanted to dive deeper into my personal yoga practice and be able to share the tools of yoga to create a more impactful experience for my exercise participants and s t u d e n t s ,” s h e s a i d . She added she is grateful for the opportunity and space. “Pints and Poses would not be possible if they weren’t so willing to try t h i s i d e a .”

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

Live Professional Theatre in the Heart of B.C.

“A m y i s a g r e a t i n s t r u c t o r and community member, most importantly an asset to our community because she is such a great Sun Peaks ambassador. She constantly receives great feedback and gratitude from all of us. She works us pretty hard and we all look forward to a great craft mug after e a c h c l a s s .” To r e s e r v e a s p o t c a l l 250-434-0279.


MONTH IN PHOTOS

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MOTHER NATURE TREATING US TO SOME SPECTACULAR SUNSETS. Photo SPIN

ZZ TOP, PERFORMED BY LEGZZ, AT THE 10TH ANNUAL RETRO CONCERT WEEKEND. Photo SPIN

THE SECOND ANNUAL WEST COAST CAMARO RALLY SHOW AND SHINE TOOK PLACE AUG. 17. Photo SPIN

CATCHING A QUICK DINNER AT MCGILLIVRAY LAKE. Photo SPIN

SLACKLIFEBC PERFORMED HIGH ABOVE THE VILLAGE AUG. 22 TO 27. Photo SPIN

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EVENTS

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20-22

Sept

5-7

ENIGMA WOMEN ESCAPE ROOM 7P.M Tranquille Farms

6-8

BONUS WEEKEND #1 FOR HIKING & BIKING 11A.M to 6P.M.

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11TH ANNUAL GIVER BALLS OPEN 12 to 9P.M. Pineridge Golf Course ROTARY CLUB OF KAMLOOPS 3RD ANNUAL SCAVENGER HUNT 1:30 to 3:30P.M. THE NORTH FACE DIRT Y FEET MOUNTAIN RUN ALL DAY Sun Peaks Village

10 TACOS AND TAT TOOS 5 to 9P.M. Bottoms Bar & Grill

BONUS WEEKEND #3 FOR HIKING & BIKING 11A.M to 6P.M.

26-28

ENIGMA WOMEN ESCAPE ROOM 7P.M Tranquille Farms

27-30 BONUS WEEKEND #4 FOR HIKING & BIKING 11A.M to 6P.M.

13-15

SUNDAY MONDAY THURSDAY

FALL FESIVAL CAR SHOW 10A.M. to 3P.M.

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

&

29

THURSDAY

SATURDAY

FALL FESTIVAL ALL DAY Sun Peaks Village

Pints & Poses 6:30 - 8:30p.m. at Cahilty Creek Kitchen Windback Wednesdays 4 - 7p.m.

SPARTA Trail Building 6:30 p.m.

1st & 3rd Thursday

Open Mic Night 8 - 10p.m. at Morrisey’s Public House

Sun Peaks Rotary Club 8a.m. at Mantles Restaurant Live Music

Various Artists FREE

DAILY

3-5

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Art Exhibition of the Month Local art work displayed

Oct

9a.m. - 5p.m. at Central Reservations

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ENIGMA WOMEN ESCAPE ROOM 7P.M Tranquille Farms

19-28 THE DROWNING GIRLS AT WESTERN CANADA TEHATRE 7:30P.M. Pavilion Theatre

ZZ TOP TRIBUTE DURING THE 10TH ANNUAL RETRO CONCERT WEEKEND. Photo SPIN VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

Family Night, Seniors Day & Ladies Night Specials

8 - 10p.m. at Morrisey’s Public House

BONUS WEEKEND #2 FOR HIKING & BIKING 11A.M to 6P.M.

14

Kitchen Party 3 - 5p.m. at Morrisey’s Public House

Golf Specials

Twilight Bike Park Tickets $20

SUN PEAKS CIDER FEST 6 to 9P.M.

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Sun Peaks Market Day 9:30a.m. - 1:30p.m.

All day

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12-14

ENIGMA WOMEN ESCAPE ROOM 7P.M Tranquille Farms

ONG OI NG E V E N T S

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SERVICES

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Looking for a business or service in Sun Peaks? Check out our online business directory at: local.sunpeaksnews. com

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YOUR OPINIONS, COMMENTS OR COMMENDATIONS ARE WELCOME Send your letters & opinions by mail to: Sun Peaks Independent News 102 3270 Village Way, Sun Peaks, B.C. V0E 5N0 or by e-mail: editor@sunpeaksnews.com All correspondence must contain a last name & a contact number for verification—phone numbers won’t be published. Writers are encouraged to keep letters to 250 or fewer words. Letters submitted without the writer’s name won’t be published. Sun Peaks Independent News reserves the right to edit letters for length, style, legality & taste. Letters not published in Sun Peaks Independent News may be published online at www.sunpeaksnews.com

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SPORTS

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Fall Festival gets super performers NIKKI FREDRIKSON

TEN OF CANADA’S TOP AGILITY DOGS WILL MAKE A STOP IN SUN PEAKS AS PART OF THE ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL. THE WEEKEND PACKED FULL OF FAMILYFRIENDLY FALL ACTIVITIES COMES TO THE VILLAGE SEPT. 28 AND 29. “Last year it (Fall Festival) was extremely popular, so we’re doing a lot of the same things like pumpkin decorating, live music, a pie-eating contest and we’ve added our President’s Choice Super Dogs,” said Tourism Sun Peaks events manager Janice Hoppenreys. The inclusion of the Super Dogs gives event attendees a chance to sit down and watch a show and see something new, explained Hoppenreys. The dogs will perform three separate times on Saturday with a “pat and

chat session” following each show. “We’re always looking to update and change our events and bring in new and exciting things,” she said. “There is a huge community of dog lovers in Sun Peaks, so we thought it would be the perfect fit.” This isn’t the first time Sun Peaks has welcomed agility dog shows but Hoppenreys said it’s been years and they haven’t been to the level of the President’s Choice Super Dogs. “The President’s Choice Super Dogs are seen at the PNE and a lot of really large festival-style events around Canada, we’re increasing the level of entertainment.” While more events and activities will be added to the festival closer to the date, Hoppenreys reminded the public the second annual Cider Festival also coincides with the Fall Festival weekend.

A SUPER DOG SHOWS OFF ITS WEAVING SKILLS. Photo Supplied

White revs into truck series

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NIKKI FREDRIKSON

AFTER A FEW WEEKS OFF RACING, LOCAL NASCAR COMPETITOR RACIN’ JASON WHITE WAS BACK IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT FOR THE GANDER OUTDOORS TRUCK SERIES AT CANADIAN TIRE MOTORSPORT PARK NEAR BOWMANVILLE, ONT. ON AUG. 25. THE VETERAN COMPETITOR PLACED 20TH IN THE COMPETITION AFTER A TRYING PRACTICE SESSION ON AUG. 24 BROUGHT OUT SOME MECHANICAL ISSUES WITH HIS TRUCK. “We were having a fuel pick up problem, and the first session was pretty much a write-off,” said White. “During the second practice though we got faster every time I went out, and things were coming together.” During qualifiers on Sunday morning White just made the top 20 group,

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WHITE COMPETING IN GANDER OUTDOORS TRUCK SERIES AT CANADIAN TIRE MOTORSPORT PARK. Photo Matthew Manor

qualifying in 19th position. “I thought we might get a little higher starting spot, but the plan all along was (to) be patient and let the race come to us. We expect some attrition,” he said. White and his team struggled with the issues throughout the competition

which forced him to enter the pit every 14 laps, twice as often as the other drivers. “It’s not the result we wanted, but if we could have licked that fuel pick up issue, we were right in the thick of things,” said White. “During the race, we had speed to race for position but with

the extra stops kept giving it back”. Having pushed all summer to make 100 career races in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series White is now taking some time off. He added he doesn’t know when he’ll be back out on the track next but assured his fans he will return.

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VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

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SPORTS

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Bike Tales: lessons three and four HELEN DAVIES MY THIRD LESSON WITH IAN WAS ONE OF TRANSITION. FIRST OF ALL, GROWLER AND I HAVE SEPARATED! TIME TO MEET MY NEW BRIGHT ORANGE BIKE, PIPELINE. PIPELINE IS A TRAIL BIKE, AND SO WITH THAT, A CHANGE OF TERRITORY AND AN INTRODUCTION TO THE PROGRESSION PARK, AS WELL AS A NEW DOWNHILL BIKER LEXICON. For those of you new to downhill, like me, the Progression Park is sort of the equivalent to the bunny slopes when you are learning to ski. It has been thoughtfully designed with the beginner in mind, representing the different elements you’d find on a downhill trail, but shorter, and with gentler steepness and more forgiving challenges. It can be easily accessed

by taking the carpet lift from the village base. Ian showed me how to load the bike and shared a little bit about what he hoped we would accomplish during the lesson. When we got to the top Ian showed me the first downhill section. It looked fairly steep and a little daunting, but I know from skiing that things always look harder than they really are, and you have to have faith in your instructor, yourself and, in this case, the bike, and just go for it! Our time in the Progression Park consisted of a number of laps top to bottom, starting with a few tips at the top to control speed, and then following Ian’s lead down to get used to the trail route. Then it was time for me to lead. That gave Ian the opportunity to observe me and provide tips and feedback, as well as literally put me in the driving seat to look ahead and find the best line to take through the berms.

We worked on shoulder and elbow positioning going into the berms, as well as creating some resistance in the arms to assist going over the humps and bumps. It still didn’t feel intuitive to be riding out of the seat most of the time, so Ian suggested placing my feet in a more central position on the pedals to provide a more rigid and balanced base. It worked! Too bad our lesson was cut a little short as the weather got progressively worse with heavy soaking rain. However, we will revisit the Progression Park and I hope to attack it with a renewed level of confidence and a better technique. Ian and I went back to the Progression Park for lesson four, thankfully in better weather. However, to get the best out of our time there, we spent the first 15 minutes in the village practising and perfecting tight turns using

a marked paved circle on flat terrain. Ian explained how our natural tendency on a bike is to steer by turning the handlebars, but on a trail bike and when navigating berms, this creates wobble and instability. The best and safest technique is to actually lean into the turn by straightening the arm closest to the inside of the turn, with that same hand moving closer towards the ground, and in this case the centre of the circle. Moving up into the park, we built on this arm movement. Ian guided me by calling out a three-step sequence: Resting position is arms bent, elbows out; get ready is pushing down on the handlebars for more resistance as you enter the berm; then straightening the arm and creating more bike lean to navigate around the berm and exit safely, ready to repeat resting position and prepare for the next approach. Once we had practised this several times, we moved our focus to the position of the bike and, more importantly, the front wheel when entering

and exiting the berm. Ideally you enter the berm at its highest point, with your eyes focused towards the point of exit. The combination of both bike and upper body positioning, enables a smoother navigation through the middle section of the berm, and a safer on target exit on the lower part. The last and trickiest part of the lesson for me was combining arm movements with bike and body position. It all sounds easy and makes total sense, but actually doing it is more challenging, and I’m still at the stage where I can focus on one part to the detriment of the other. I definitely need to practise achieving a more synchronous approach, and that’s where the Progression Park really helps the beginner by offering a range of manageable terrain with enough trail length to keep repeating and perfecting your skills as you bike down.

READ ABOUT THE REST OF HELENS LESSONS AT SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM

Not All Paper Is Created Equal Books Are Not Accepted For Recycling

Recycle BC accepts all types of printed paper, but items such as hard cover and soft cover books are not part of the program. Your local Transfer Station cannot accept them for recycling. Consider reuse options and check with local thrift stores or charitable organizations.

tnrd.ca | 1.877.377.8673 | recycleright@tnrd.ca 18

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4


SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

A new generation of stoke Stewart lands top 20 finish NIKKI FREDRIKSON

THIS YEAR SUN PEAKS WAS REPRESENTED BOTH IN AND OUT OF COMPETITION AT CRANKWORX, THE ANNUAL BIKING EVENT HELD IN WHISTLER, B.C. “It is the pinnacle of biking. If you’re in the slopestyle world and you’re riding at Crankworx you’re riding the biggest event of the year,” said Sun Peaks resident Andrew Helton, an eighttime Crankworx attendee. After first attending the annual competition in 2012, Helton has gone from a spectator to founding member of the chainsaw mafia—a group of friends who walk around revving chainsaws and getting the crowd excited. “On Heckler’s Rock there was always chainsaws and Heckler’s Rock is not a thing anymore but there was always chainsaws there. So then when I went, I thought I was just joining in with the crew, but there was no other chainsaws that first year,” he said. The following year his friends joined him with chainless saws and would walk through the sea of people revving the machines. “You walk into anywhere and fire up a saw and start revving it, if the energy is up people are going to get up on it.” Emma Christy, attending the event for her second year, said the event can be overwhelming with the level of energy created from hundreds of thousands of spectators. “This is my second year and last year I didn’t bike… but even last year going as someone outside of the biking community seeing how excited everyone got, the stoke was so high, and regardless of who you were

and what you were doing there everyone was so excited,” she said. Both Helton and Christy agreed the event does a great job of being spectator friendly with opportunities everywhere you go to watch the athletes compete. “There’s 100,000 people just at the bottom and screaming and hootin’ and hollering and that scene is just insane. There’s nowhere else in mountain biking you get that spectatorship,” said Heltron. No stranger to the annual Crankworx competition herself, local competitor Kyleigh Stewart brought home a top 20 finish in the pro-women division at this year’s event which ran Aug. 9 to 18. Having competed in at the event for the past five years, Stewart chose to enter the Air DH contest as a pro and finished 18th overall with a time of 4:33.8. “I was pretty happy,” she said. “I got 18th in prowomen which (was) pretty tight times and I look at some of the women I beat

and I’m pretty stoked on that. There’s some pretty big names that I was close to or even beat, that feels really good.” But the contest wasn’t all smooth sailing for Stewart who commented she wasn’t feeling confident heading into the event as she hadn’t ridden the course in a year. She headed out the night before to get a few laps in and get a bit more confident on her trail bike. “Once I got a couple runs on that I was starting to feel a bit more comfortable and calm down a little bit,” she said. “At the end of the day there was no pressure on me compared to some of these top pro women so I said, have fun, if it works out, it works out. If it doesn’t, whatever as long as it was fun.” Stewart focused on pedalling as hard as she could and tried to not overshoot the jumps. She noted her 29-inch wheels were a slight advantage, rolling fast along the cruisey trail. “It came down to who could pedal the hardest I think, for the four minutes or whatever it was, and so there’s a lot of good results from enduro riders. They suited the fitness aspect of it.” Along with the Air DH competition Stewart also participated in the Deep Summer Photo contest, an event which gives competitors three days to create a photo slideshow which tells a story of riding. “We did the first day in Pemberton and then the

first half of the second day in Pemberton so we camped overnight. Saturday, Sunday was bike park stuff,” said Stewart. With only the winner announced she said she’d like to believe her project would be in the top three but regardless of results was happy with the time and effort her team put in. As a returning athlete Stewart described the weeklong event as inclusive with activities for everyone including races, trail rides, and workshops. “For some people, it’s their big event of the year

and they’re super serious about it, but for most people, I would say it’s more just about having fun. The atmosphere at the event is pretty good,” she stated. “Everyone’s just trying to have a good time, everyone’s talking at the top of the race, it’s pretty laid back which is nice.” For now, Stewart’s competitive season has come to a close to focus on the start of the school year but she has plans to travel to Australia to enter the Cannonball Mountain Bike Festival at Thredbo Resort Dec. 4 to 8.

Do you know how old your smoke alarms are?

Check your smoke alarm for a sticker showing the year to replace it in or if there’s no sticker, replace the smoke alarm if it hasn’t been changed within the last 10 years. Old smoke alarms can fail or may take longer to detect smoke. Please email info@sunpeaksfirerescue.com for a free smoke alarm test.

Bear Smart Community

Just a reminder that bears are active at this time of year and are attracted by the mountain ash bushes. In order to help reduce any issues, please remove the berries. Also ensure that all garbage containers are securely stored and BBQs are properly cleaned.

Outstanding Taxes

Don’t forget to pay any outstanding taxes. The annual Tax Sale is scheduled for September 30th for any properties with delinquent taxes. Please contact the Municipal office to inquire about account balances. CRANKWORX 2019 - SPECTATORS TAKE IN THE OFFICIAL WHIP OFF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS AT CRANKWORX 2019 IN WHISTLER, B.C. Photo Fraser Britton

Questions, comments and feedback can be sent to

www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

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

COMMERCIAL SPACE

107 KOOKABURRA LODGE | $559, 000 This 1076 sq.ft. space is available in the Kookaburra Lodge. High traffic corner exposure and great storefront visibility and patio area that offers the opportunity for significant growth. Concrete structure for strength, acoustic and fire qualities with sprinkler system in place. Great location adjacent to the village with year round community and school. Existing lease in place. Monthly strata fee $690.63.

6289 UPPER LOUIS CREEK RD | $999,000 This 3 bedroom country home plus office space is set on 20 acres of unparalleled beauty. Striking views in every direction combined with the utmost in privacy. Features open kitchen, dining and living area designed for casual gatherings, hardwood floors, river rock fireplace, woodstoves, partially covered wraparound sundeck where you can enjoy sunrises and sunsets while watching your horses graze. Lower level has a revenue generating self-contained legal suite with large covered patio overlooking pasture. Sun Peaks Resort is only 15 minutes away. Contact our office with any questions or to arrange your personal viewing.

#52 TIMBERLINE VILLAGE | $429,900 Fully furnished, warm and inviting 2 bedroom condo with 2 bathrooms is on two levels and offers heated tile floors, a bright eat-in kitchen and spacious living area with cozy fireplace. Enjoy the mountain views of Morrisey from the private sundeck off the living room as well as ski run views on the main mountain from the kitchen / dining area. Not currently being rented and is available for quick possession. Zoning allows for short term rentals and GST is paid.

#1405A GRAND RESIDENCES | $107,000 Luxury living at a fraction of the cost.. two bedroom, two bathroom features gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, inviting living room with private south facing sundeck overlooking the village stroll, with open dining area, newer carpet and cozy fireplace. Spacious master bedroom with bay window and well-appointed Ensuite with soaker tub and separate shower. Comfortably sleeps 6 with secure underground parking, access to fitness facility, outdoor heated pool, hot tubs & onsite restaurants and lounge. GST applies.

NEW LISTING

2431 FAIRWAYS DRIVE | $1,399,000 Welcome home to this comfortable custom designed post & beam 4 bedroom home with additional 1 bedroom revenue suite. Expansive window packages take advantage of light and views. From the floor to ceiling rock fireplace in the living room, the custom hardwood cabinetry, granite countertops, deluxe appliances, tasteful mix of hardwood, stone and tile flooring - all is high end. Radiant floor heat throughout, vaulted ceilings, private deck, fireplace, plus large single garage of over 30 feet in length with additional storage mezzanine. Offered furnished with hot tub; GST paid.

#57 CRYSTAL FOREST | $519,900 Modern, refurbished 3 bedroom townhome in Crystal Forest. South facing with mountain views. 9 foot ceilings on the main floor, with rock fireplace and heated tile floors in kitchen, entries, and bathrooms. The third bathroom is a plus for owners or rental guests. Secure underground parking. A short walk to the village and a shorter walk to your choice of the Morrissey or the Orient chairs. Offered furnished with hot tub. GST is applicable. Main floor carpet is in the process of being replaced.

#4-1311 BURFIELD DRIVE | $429,000 Fully furnished sleek and stylish three bedroom, two bathroom condo spread across one level that allows short term rentals - optimized for accommodating large families. Just outside on the deck are the barbeque and your private hot tub where you can relax after a day of adventure and enjoy the beautiful mountain views. The main living area features a wall mounted flat screen TV with surround sound speakers, two large sofas, reclining loveseat. Located in a four-plex with in-floor radiant heat, private laundry, and so much more! GST not applicable.

#35 STONES THROW | $484,000 This attractive ski-in, ski-out 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom mountain condo in Stone’s Throw is conveniently situated next to the new Orient Chairlift and just steps from the Sun Peaks golf course. Ground level corner unit that has an ideal floor plan offering comfort and privacy with private hot tub and direct access to greenspace. Features an open living, dining area and well equipped spacious kitchen with heated tile floors and, stone-faced fireplace. GST is applicable.

#25 STONE’S THROW | $529,000 This upper level two bedroom, 2 bathroom mountain retreat is warm and inviting with sunny deck and ski hill views. Features a bright and open interior with vaulted ceiling and extra windowing, some new appliances and freshly painted. Great ski-in, ski-out access makes this the perfect place after a long day on the slopes or mountain biking on the trails. Easy access to both Mt. Morrisey and the new Orient Chairlifts. Comes fully furnished with GST paid.

#315 COAST SUNDANCE LODGE |

#8 SETTLER’S CROSSING | $549,000 Lower level 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom retreat is very well-appointed with alluring features such as granite countertops, hardwood flooring, heated tiles in entry, kitchen and bathrooms, and cozy gas fireplace in the open living area. This condo has fantastic ski-in, ski-out access located directly on the golf course adjacent to the new Orient Ridge Chairlift. Features covered deck with large private hot tub, 1 secure underground parking space with additional storage area and ski locker available.

#14 CRYSTAL FOREST | $459,000 Sunny courtyard location with south facing exposure and ski hill views of Mt. Morrisey compliment this beautiful 2 storey, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom townhouse. This home is being offered fully furnished and has 2 secure underground parking spaces, outside ski storage and interior owner’s storage, cozy gas fireplace, heated tile floors in kitchen and baths. Crystal Forest has been designed to capture the ambiance of a Tyrolean Ski Village. GST paid.

SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 20

VOL 17 ISSUE 9 SEPTEMBER 6 - OCTOBER 4

$45,900

Enjoy the nice views of Mt. Morrissey and the covered bridge from your sunny private patio from this deluxe 3rd floor studio. Features the warmth of a fireplace, efficiency kitchen with 2 burner cook top, a queen bed and double bed. Owners’ personal use up to 180 days per year with professional management agreement in place with Coast Hotels. Best ski-in, ski-out location in the village with access to golf, shopping and restaurants! Offered fully furnished; GST is applicable.


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