Volume 17 Issue 12

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 12

NOVEMBER 29 — DECEMBER 20 , 2019

SCHIAVON BECOME SPFR CHIEF PAGE 5

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NEW DOCTOR JOINS CLINIC IN 2020 PAGE 6

From dirt to dropping in Sun Peaks Skate Park Foundation gains momentum

JEAN STRONG

SNOW CRUNCHES UNDER PETER WILSON’S FEET AS HE WALKS OVER A SITE HE’S VISUALIZED FOR YEARS. FOR NOW IT’S FILLED WITH EQUIPMENT USED BY THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, A BARREL OF MANGLED SKI POLES AND A SMALL PLOW. His goal is that by 2021 the dirt will be transformed into a 4,000 square foot skate park with a medium size street course and quarter pipe.

The project is something Wilson has been a part of since 2015 when he took over as acting director of the Sun Peaks Skate Park Foundation (SPSPF) from founder Adam Earle.

Since then he’s focused on building support from the ground up, slowly infiltrating many areas of the community with grassroots initiatives. Things like partial profits from beer sold at 5-Forty or Morrisey’s Public House helped the group slowly build interest and grow their bank account.

But this year has been full steam ahead for Wilson and his team as

PETER WILSON AND SPSPF ARE WORKING TO SHIFT THE CULTURE IN SUN PEAKS. Photo SPIN

they move ahead with plans to complete engineering, design, geotechnical surveys, and finalize a site in the East Village at a cost of around $30,000.

With the help of Jim Barnum from New Line Skateparks, SPSPF has created a three phase planning and design timeline and a four phase construction timeline that aims for completion in 2021, alongside what should become a permanent school and recreation area in Sun Peaks.

“We’ve been biding our time and playing the patience game

knowing that it would have to be in sync with the school. Knowing we’d have to be in sync with growth in the community,” Wilson said.

The planning and design phase is estimated to take seven months to complete alongside a significant fundraising effort, taking them from the $13,000 raised by Oct. 30 to the $500,000 plus needed to finish the project.

This fall those lofty goals have been helped by the Ullr Party fundraiser which brought in over $10,000 and the annual Firefighter’s Society Gala, for which SPSPF was

selected as one of two beneficiaries for this year. Wilson said being selected as a gala charity and a recent presentation to council served to further legitimize the cause.

“We’ve been really trying to get to the gala, it’s a turning point...the ball is rolling, we have traction. The timing couldn’t be better for the gala.

I really feel traction is happening from all kinds of levels.”

Wilson’s daughter, Olivia Martin, spoke on behalf of SPSPF at the event and described growing up in Sun Peaks and missing the

accessible community centrepiece a skate park becomes.

It’s one of the reasons that drives Wilson to work on the project.

“Directly, it would be for my fiveyear-old boy Jack River and his buds. After that it’s for visitors and people who live here.”

But he has personal reasons to be passionate about the project too.

When his mother, Nancy Wilson, died it gave him a community.

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VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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LOCAL NEWS

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CONTINUED FROM COVER “I started skateboarding at 30. Only because my peers were doing it and I had a good 10 year run. I took it really seriously. It was something really important to me when my mum died, it was somewhere I could go that was free and always open. So I did some grieving at the skate park.

“It all started at Kenny Dale’s at the half pipe, and I kind of got into it and I stuck with it.”

Kenny Dale, also a member of SPSPF, has skateboarded for 45 years and is an outspoken supporter of the group.

“I’m still an avid skater,” he said. “I skate at least once or twice a week.

In town and we travel around, and at my house we have a halfpipe.

“I’ve grown up skateboarding myself and seen it evolve over the years. There are skate parks all over the world now. You can take a skateboard anywhere and enjoy yourself and generally it’s for free. All you really pay is some skin now and then.”

Barnum, senior designer and project manager from New Line said in projects they’ve worked on in places like Whistler, Revelstoke and Banff, or even as far away as France, Sweden or China, the community has gained a lot.

“The number one thing is people are surprised at how much a skate park is used. The other thing that

surprises people is the variety of ages that use it, from five to people like me, who are 50 and still skating.

“Having a place for this segment of the community to go (is great).

To bring this non-joining part of the community into the fold.”

Dale said he’s also seen users of all ages.

“It’s great for camaraderie. You go to a skate park and you see kids of all ages, people trying to get better and learn a trick who do it over and over.”

Despite the growing wave of support Wilson said he still hears from nay-sayers who believe in the stereotype of skate parks and skate culture being bad for a community.

“You just kind of want to pat them on the head and say, ‘Okay, Boomer’...I have to bite my tongue.

The headwind at times has been unbelievable. You just look at the person across the table from you and ask is this for real? Is this really what you’re thinking? You have to be a bit patient.

“I’ve been flat out looked at and said this isn’t a feasible project which is disheartening. You have to go home and shake your head and go ‘as if.’

If you’re supposed to be the fastest growing municipality and you’re not considering a skate park we’ve got bigger social issues, it can’t just be happy retired (people)...There’s other people, there’s other groups that take ownership of this mountain just the same.”

But the noise of the cynics is being

drowned out more and more each day as the group gains momentum.

“There’s a lot of growth in the community over the past few years.

Real estate and a school and a lot of things are really taking off. To experience it firsthand...I’ve been here since 1990, I don’t think there are too many people in the world who get to watch a community grow like this, and then to have a small fingerprint on part of it.

“I’m really proud to see my mum’s name on the wall of the health clinic.

She really impressed upon me that if you want to get things done you have to do it.”

From around the globe in Australia, founder Earle has watched the seeds he helped plant steadily grow.

“It is with great pleasure as I watch from afar these days and see so many people in Sun Peaks helping raise money for the SPSPF as this great cause moves forward,” he said. “The fundraisers for the SPSPF seem to abound with a community focused on getting concrete in the ground and skateboards rolling.”

Next up for Wilson and the group is growing their team. While the first design phases get underway recruiting will take place for members who support the cause and can work on grant writing, corporate sales and volunteer coordination to take them to the next level.

“We’ve been very patient but now is the time.”

There’s a lot of work, and expenses,

ahead but Wilson said he is keeping focused on a dream he’s had for years.

“It would be really cool to have an Olympic skateboarder come out of Sun Peaks,” he said. “Out of a civil project that we all slaved on. I mean that would be ideal. You know if you get a young buck or a young girl it’s a four year turnaround. So you know we could pull this off (and in) four years get someone to the Olympics for skateboarding out of Sun Peaks, that would’ve been on nobody’s radar. And my mum would have been really proud.”

Earle shared the same long term vision for the community addition.

“I really look forward to one day returning to Sun Peaks on a sunny summer day and rolling into a smooth multi-tiered skate bowl surrounded by visiting skate tourists, Sun Peaks locals, their kids or grandkids and maybe even a future Olympic medalist.”

The vision makes the work worth it for Wilson.

“I would be lying if the skate park hasn’t taken some days off the end of my life. It’s a civil project, there’s a lot of moving parts. If all things go right we’re breaking ground in the spring. Even just to get the rough site services done.

“I want it to be free...I want it to be a focal point for all ages and genders... it has to be user friendly. The drive with this project is very much a community.”

EDITOR Jean Strong

NEW THIS WINTER

jean@sunpeaksnews.com

Nestled on the mountainside ‘Peaks West’ takes you back to where it all began with a fresh, contemporary twist. Located between the Sun Peaks Firehall and the Burfield Chairlift base, this vibrant community welcomes you with the modern conveniences you need.

CONTRIBUTORS Courtney Jones Emily Perrins Justin Moore Kyle James Mel Rothenburger Perri Digby Ron Betts Each issue reaches thousands of readers and one copy is available FREE to residents and visitors. Anyone taking papers in bulk will be prosecuted.

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VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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On Thursday, December 12, 2019, we will host the 12th Annual Sotheby’s International Realty Canada’s Benefit Art Auction in support of Sun Peaks Secondary Academy. This premiere benefit event will begin at 6pm in Morrisey’s Public House in Sun Peaks.

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We are currently seeking local art submissions for the event. This is a great way to showcase your talent to the community while helping to raise money for such a great cause. If you would like to donate art, please call 250.578.7773 or stop by the Sotheby’s Realty office in the village for more details.

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VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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LOCAL NEWS

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The staircase to nowhere New fence blocks community’s access to trail JEAN STRONG

THE SAME NO TRESPASSING SIGN WHICH ONCE WARNED TRAIL USERS NOT TO ENTER THE FAIRWAY COTTAGES NEIGHBOURHOOD NOW HANGS ON A NEWLY-INSTALLED CHAIN LINK FENCE, WARNING THOSE LEAVING THE DEVELOPMENT NOT TO ACCESS THE TRAIL ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF THE PROPERTY. The tall fence is at the center of a dispute between the strata council of Fairway Cottages, residents, Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) and owners who pushed for access to the trail to be revoked.

The no trespassing sign is one of many placed by the strata years ago in an effort to remind other walkers their common property wasn’t a part of the trail network that connects the resort. The specific section of trail, from a bridge crossing McGillivray Creek to the complex, isn’t marked as part of the network on official maps but has been used by residents for years and is lighted.

The recent installation of the barricade has upset council, who had been working on a solution internally, and residents who are now faced with the choice to trespass onto neighbours’ lots to access the trail or walk around the property on Fairways Dr. Strata president Robert Prins said council surveyed homeowners in 2015 after complaints about noise and disruption from nonresidents walking across the property.

Results from the initial survey indicated 40 per cent supported keeping stairs open year round, 40 per cent wanted them removed and 20 per cent wanted limited access in the winter.

4

In the summer of 2016 Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality (SPMRM) received funding to expand the valley trail network along Sun Peaks Rd. Prins said they waited to see the impact of the new trail.

A second survey was sent to owners this year. Results tallied in early October supported keeping the stairs. Of 37 homes, 25 responded, 92 per cent of respondents (62 per cent of owners) supported keeping the staircase open year round and adding a handrail.

On Oct. 25 SPR began construction on a fence; it was complete by Oct. 29.

Many residents expressed shock SPR added the fencing with no communication to the strata.

SPR general manager Darcy Alexander confirmed no notice was given but added the issue has been ongoing.

“There’s an internal disagreement in that strata about access through their property and our golf course property there is not their property. I’m not the arbitrator of their internal dispute in their strata but I do have responsibilities to the company to protect their interests across that piece of property.

“That is not the property of people on the strata and it is my responsibility as management of the company that I work with to protect our property rights...but if putting a fence up leads to a resolution maybe that’s part of the process.”

Alexander pointed to liability concerns on the land but couldn’t point to a specific event or complaints that led to the decision being made.

“All I will say is I have received varying opinions,” he said. “In the opinions that have been raised there are liability concerns for our company over access over

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

our property and we must resolve those.”

However since 2014 at least one resident of The Cottages has been vocal in her support of removing access.

Katheryn Coleman has pressed SPMRM and SPR to find a solution to a perceived trespass and liability issue created by the staircase.

Coleman declined requests for further comment but emails shared with SPIN from August to September described her concerns with the access point.

In November 2015, Coleman wrote to SPR that she believed the stairs posed a problem and were used by staff, tourists and others every day.

“It is my best intention to have the council remove the staircase for the risk and liability it presents to all owners in The Cottages but I believe a stronger message from Sun Peaks Corporation will ensure the ongoing issues of trespass cease,” she wrote.

In an Aug. 5 email to SPIN, SPR and SPMRM, Coleman explained concern with trespass and the peaceable enjoyment of her property.

“Sun Peaks Corporation needs to block off the trail access in such a way that access to our property is inconvenient and has consequences tied to it.

“I should think barricading an access road that leads directly off and onto my property would be a simple one,” Coleman wrote in a Sept. 17 email to SPIN. But, Prins said, since the new valley trail was completed trespassers and complaints have decreased significantly.

“Less than 10 complaints from fewer than three people,” he said.

A number of residents emailed their concerns to SPIN and SPR, including decreased real estate value, lack of consultation and increased vehicle traffic to the

village core as people chose to drive. Residents next to the fence now have trail users crossing private lots to bypass the fence.

Homeowner Jenny Hawes said she purchased last year because the trail made her children’s walk to school easy. Now, she said, they want to drive or will face strata fines from trespassing around the fence.

More than the impact on herself and her neighbours, she said, she’s concerned about the message sent to the rest of the community.

“Fences give the impression that there are safety or security concerns...I want to be clear that that’s not the case for our community.”

Prins explained they carry insurance which would cover them in place of an incident on the property.

During a strata meeting on Nov. 1 council unanimously passed three motions to talk with SPR regarding their concerns and survey results and to speak at a SPMRM council meeting. The final motion stated council should tell owners that by-passing internal strata process to address issues with common property would be disrespectful to other owners and condemned by council.

Moving forward Prins said ideally council would like to see the fence removed but he has yet to hear from SPR. “Council wants to be constructive and solve it and work with the corp (SPR) to address presumably their liability concerns and risk concerns,” he said. “We’re somewhat amazed that Darcy (Alexander) and the resort would erect a fence without actually notifying the strata corporation...that seems very odd as a good neighbour...What is so unique about that little piece of the valley trail that you feel you have to fence that off to minimize your liability?”

Prins couldn’t comment on Coleman’s complaints as the strata wasn’t included in her communication with the resort but he repeated the council’s condemnation of residents

speaking on behalf of the strata.

“The only people who are really authorized to talk to the corp (SPR) about risk and liability on the strata property is the strata council,” he said. “If an owner went and bypassed that process... council thinks that’s disrespectful.

It’s disrespectful to the rest of the owners especially if the rest of the owners have said I want access to the valley trail.

Alexander told SPIN SPR is open to working with the strata to find a solution that works for all parties.

“They have to make up their mind what they want, there are some people in that strata who want one thing and some people who want something that’s inconsistent with what other people want ...we’ll deal with the issue with them if we can but it has to be a reasonable and responsible resolution.

“There are some other conditions on access and liability that we’re going to have to deal with as well as maintenance of a trail for them and I don’t know what that would mean. We’d have to sit down and negotiate and figure out those points and the details of it and also whether other people would be allowed to come through their strata and use it or if they just want it for their strata...and the strata would have to come with the legal authority to negotiate that kind of agreement and that’s something they have to settle between themselves.”

In the meantime residents like Hawes will choose between trespassing on neighbours’ lots and facing strata fines, or walking around the complex to access a trail they can see from their front door.

“I can walk around and that’s fine but what perception does that fence give for our strata...it’s a great neighbourhood,” Hawes said.

“I don’t want this to be an adversarial situation,” Alexander stated. “I just want this to be a responsible resolution that everybody is onboard with...I’m sorry for the inconvenience of a fence at this point in time but it’s part of the resolution.”

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Schiavon becomes SPFR chief EMILY PERRINS THERE’S A NEW CHIEF IN TOWN. After 12 years with Sun Peaks Fire Rescue (SPFR), Dean Schiavon is taking on the role of fire chief.

He succeeds Colin Cannon, who retires from the position on Dec. 1.

Schiavon first joined the volunteer fire department in 2007, after moving to Sun Peaks to work for Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) in information technology.

“I knew the fire chief at that time quite well from working with him at SPR and he was constantly prodding me to join,” he said. “I signed up and started training, which led to me becoming a volunteer lieutenant back in 2014, and then I started working full-time as fire prevention officer in 2015.

“The thing that I’m most excited for [as chief] is developing a strategic plan for the department, and get some direction as to where we should be directing our resources,” he said. “The community is growing at a rapid pace and we have to ensure the department is growing to meet its demands.”

Schiavon said this is key as the community grows.

“The department really hasn’t changed in size since I started...the community has been growing a lot faster than we have been. We had more calls in September than we’ve ever had by that time in previous years.

“My goal is to reach out to longerterm community members, to encourage involvement with the department, and to have options for them other than being an emergency responder,” Schiavon added.

By incorporating other types of members that can help out other ways around the hall or assist with community outreach and Fire Smart initiatives, as alternatives to emergency response, Schiavon said he believes the department may have a better chance at growing its membership.

Martin McQuade, who has been deputy chief with the SilverStar Fire Department for three years, will take over as fire prevention officer with SPFR.

“We’ve done a bit of work with him already,” Schiavon said. “He was at the fire training centre in Vernon as our fire technician when we were doing our [annual] training in the burn building.

“Bringing on Martin gives us a different, outside, perspective that we wouldn’t have had from an internal applicant. And [he] is from a ski hill, so he does have that experience of working in a ski resort. It’s not totally unfamiliar territory for him,” he added.

In fact, Sun Peaks is quite familiar territory for McQuade, who’s looking forward to settling in the community.

“I’ve skied up there quite a few times. My wife and I used to go up there once a year,” he said.

McQuade started with SPFR on Nov. 26, when he spent a week transitioning into the role with Schiavon.

“I’m hoping I can take advantage of Dean’s knowledge before he gets busy being the new head fellow as fire chief,” he said.

Schiavon is excited for the new

Security guard convicted of sexual assault during Snowbombing 2017 JEAN STRONG

IN APRIL 2017 A YOUNG WOMAN VISITING SUN PEAKS WAS ASSAULTED BY A SECURITY GUARD WHO AGREED TO WALK HER HOME, A RECENTLY PUBLICIZED B.C. SUPREME COURT DECISION STATES. Shawn Christopher Gray, 38, was found guilty of one count of sexual assault in August.

The woman, identified only by the initials C.F., said during the trial that it was the last night of a music festival and she had been drinking wine with friends in their rental accommodation before going to a concert and The Underground (a venue) where she didn’t drink.

While at the venue she said she became separated from her friends and told Gray she was trying to get home; he offered to walk her back to the chalet.

Gray, a contracted employee for a security company, was on duty for the event in asset protection, ensuring guests don’t go in hazardous areas and protecting valuable property. According to the court documents this was a post that must be covered at all times.

Despite this and the fact that security was not permitted to do safe walks due to insurance and staffing limitations, Gray offered to walk C.F. the 20 minutes home.

During the walk, the decision states, C.F. slipped and fell on the ice and snow.

She said she told Gray at one point that even though he was walking her home he wouldn’t “get lucky.”

Once at the chalet C.F. entered the code to unlock the door, she said she has no memory of inviting him in but clearly remembered standing at the door, thanking him and telling him to leave. She explained Gray helped her with her shoelaces and coat

but she felt uncomfortable and felt her stomach drop when she realized he wasn’t leaving.

C.F. was able to text a friend that the guard was there and needed to leave.

While in the house together Gray assaulted C.F. During the assault her friend arrived at the house and took a picture of Gray which was later used to identify him. The friend called 911 and two RCMP officers attended.

The trial’s judge decided Gray was not a credible witness as there were inconsistencies and parts of his testimony that led him to believe he could not rely on his evidence.

He also accepted DNA evidence collected from Gray’s clothing that further proved sexual assault.

“I conclude that Mr. Gray proceeded on the mistaken assumption that C.F.’s silence and passivity coupled with a lack of physical resistance constituted consent to

DEAN SCHIAVON WILL TAKE OVER AS SPFR’S FIRE CHIEF ON DEC. 1. Photo SPIN

changes to the department.

“I see this as a big opportunity to grow SPFR and our role within the community,” he said. “We are

sexual activity. However, silence or passivity cannot equate to communicated consent because silence and passivity do not communicate anything,” Justice Steven Wilson said in his decision.

In October Gray was sentenced to three years in jail with a DNA order.

Sun Peaks Resort LLP said in a statement to SPIN they were disappointed to hear of the incident.

“Sun Peaks Resort is disappointed to hear details of the serious incident that occurred at an event in our destination back in 2017.

a very young department so lots of training going on for everyone and lots of room for growth. It’s an exciting time for the department.”

Safety of guests, residents, and staff is a key priority at all times. We continue to work with law enforcement now and be diligent with present and future event logistics both internally and with third party partners. Our thoughts and best wishes are with those that were impacted by this very unfortunate and deplorable criminal act,” the statement read.

Blueprint, the company which now manages the event in Canada, declined comment and directed further inquiries to Guardteck security who didn’t reply to SPIN’s requests for comment.

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VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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LOCAL NEWS

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Dr. Frank returns in 2020 JEAN STRONG

A FAMILIAR FACE WILL RETURN TO THE SUN PEAKS HEALTH CENTRE IN 2020.

Dr. Signy Frank worked in the clinic as part of the University of British Columbia’s family medicine residency program in 2018.

Now in mid-2020 she will return to the community for two years.

Frank, from Milton, Ont., studied at the medical school of the University of Limerick

in Ireland before completing a masters degree at Queen’s University.

“I have been so fortunate to have completed my residency training in Sun Peaks,” Frank said. “Not only have I received excellent mentorship under Dr. Shane Barclay and Dr. Chip Bantock, but the Sun Peaks community has gone above and beyond to support me during my training. It has been such a good fit and I am thrilled that after graduation I will be joining the Sun Peaks Health Centre team as

a permanent doctor on staff.

“I cannot wait to give back to the community that has so kindly taken me in as one of their own. The entire Thompson region has exceeded my expectations with unlimited adventures such as skiing, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, hiking and so much more. I feel at home here and am looking forward to continuing to set down roots.”

Executive director Laura Bantock said they were thrilled to announce her rejoining the medical team.

Sun Peaks Lodge takes over neighbouring hotel Fondue restaurant and updated rooms for winter

PROTECT YOUR GAS METER Sun Peaks is preparing for snow. While this is great for snow sports, it’s not so good for your gas meter. Remember to keep your gas meter set clear of snow and ice. Do not use the area around your gas meter for storage of items such as skis, shovels, snow-blowers, wood, etc., such that access by Utility staff or emergency personnel is obstructed.

In an emergency, a first responder may need to shut your gas service off at the meter set.

Don’t forget overhead ice can fall off your roof and break the meter set causing uncontrolled release of gas. Utility staff can assist you in clearing the heavy snow and ice covering your gas meter set. Please do not try and remove any ice coating the gas meter yourself. Remember, that if Utility’s staff must clear the gas meter during monthly meter reading or for safety reasons, you will be charged a fee of $50 for the 1st incident & $100 for each additional time.

If you have any questions regarding this notice please contact the Utility’s office at info@sunpeaksutilities.com or call 250.578.2020 Monday to Friday After Hour Emergency 250.319.0629

In an emergency, please call 9-1-1 JEAN STRONG SNOW IS FALLING OUTSIDE, HORSES PULL A SLEIGH PAST THE WINDOWS AND LIGHTS GLOW ON TREES. INSIDE COUPLES AND FAMILIES DIP THEIR DINNER INTO TRADITIONAL CHEESES AND CHOCOLATES. This perfect winter scene is what Mario Erler envisions when he and wife Silvia open Fondue Stube this winter.

Taking over the space once home to Casa Mexicana, the renovation and new restaurant are part of the Erler’s takeover of what was the Heffley Boutique Inn. Inspired by fondue restaurants in European mountain villages, Erler described the atmosphere they’re aiming for as warm, casual and welcoming.

“There’s no limitation for who I think it’s for. It’s for everyone, especially couples,” he said. “You can have a good glass of wine and laughs... it’s interactive. It’s an active dinner where you’re not just waiting for your food.”

In preparation for a planned soft opening in December, Erler has carefully selected each element from fondue pots to sourcing authentic cheeses like gruyere from Switzerland and kirsch (brandy) from Okanagan

6

Spirits.

Upstairs, the couple have brought the previous hotel under the umbrella of the Sun Peaks Lodge, the additional rooms give them just over 70 rooms compared to their previous 44.

Since taking possession in early October, he said, they have begun completely renovating every room into modern but warm and comfortable studios.

“Our slogan is warm and (casual) with a touch of luxury,” he explained.

“Everything that was there is gone. It’s not a city style... modern but still ski resort like with warm colours.”

Rooms are expected to be ready mid-December and work to upgrade the exterior of the building will take place in the following years.

“Sun Peaks Lodge is a pretty little hotel, we want to make it just as pretty.”

The expansion will allow the business to expand, especially in the summer months when a lack of rooms put them at a disadvantage for booking bus tours. Erler said they had to turn buses away previously but will now be able to host two full buses at a time.

It’s a big step, and large

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

A COZY CORNER OF FONDUE STUBBE READY FOR GUESTS. Photo SPIN

investment, after 15 years owning Sun Peaks Lodge.

“At the beginning it was tough, we had almost closed

and had five tours.

“We are proud of what we are doing. We are family owned and operated and we

make mistakes but we can change them on the spot... it’s a very exciting time to be here as well.”

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Art Zone partners with Sotheby’s for art auction JEAN STRONG

THE ANNUAL SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ART AUCTION RETURNS IN DECEMBER, CONTINUING THE

TRADITION OF CELEBRATING ART AND FUNDRAISING FOR THE SUN PEAKS EDUCATION SOCIETY. This year Art Zone Sun Peaks, an organization that supports art and artists in the community, has partnered with Sotheby’s to help curate and collect pieces

and provide administration and day-of assistance.

“It’s a perfect partnership”, said Art Zone’s new president Marj Knive.

“We’re just talking with all the same people we talk to all the time so it’s a really nice fit,” she said. “We’re very involved.”

Mountain Rescue Society shifts focus following big 2018-19 season EMILY PERRINS

SUN PEAKS MOUNTAIN RESCUE SOCIETY (SPMRS) IS SHIFTING ITS FOCUS FROM ACQUIRING FIRST AID EQUIPMENT TO FACILITATING MORE PUBLIC EDUCATION AND TRAINING. Last year the non-profit group, with the help of generous donors, purchased over $20,000 worth of first aid gear for the community.

This included what founder Chris Mark described as the piece of equipment that started the whole thing, the LifeArm CPR machine.

Mike Billheimer has been a member of SPMRS since its inception.

“In their first two years, SPMRS really spent a lot of their energy fundraising and accruing equipment, and now it seems to be moving into an operational phase where we’re going to spend some time getting instructors trained, put on more courses and build more public awareness,” he said after the group’s annual general meeting on Nov. 4.

The group proposed having two members trained in first aid instruction to begin instructing basic first aid courses for businesses and the community for free or by donation, according to Mark.

Following the success of last year’s CPR and naloxone (Narcan) education evenings, SPMRS also

intends to host more free community training events in partnership with Dr. Shane Barclay and the Sun Peaks Health Centre, starting in December.

The group also plans to release first aid kits as a fundraiser, and to extend into other mountain rescue facets.

Mark described the kits as convenient fanny packs that can be stored in cars or backcountry packs.

“We will be investing about $4,000 into a new, publicly accessible, beacon basin for avalanche safety,” Mark said. “We have approached the avalanche team and they’re fully supportive of the project. With the new terrain, which is potentially going to be opening out in Gil’s, and the community’s involvement in backcountry skiing, [it’s] never a bad thing to have.”

“Our mandate is to provide education to the community so it supports our mandate; it doesn’t have to be first aid related,” he clarified.

Not only has the group been busy planning, it’s also had a presence at many preseason events.

Its members provided first aid coverage at the Ullr fundraiser for the Sun Peaks Skate Park Foundation, and SPMRS equipment was used in pre-season training by Sun Peaks Ski Patrol, Sun Peaks Fire Rescue and the Canadian Ski Patrol.

With the Sun Peaks Hockey League (SPHL) on hiatus

this winter, SPMRS has lost a fundraising opportunity to provide first aid and sell refreshments for donation at the weekly hockey meets.

Nevertheless, the group will be beneficiaries of donations raised at the ‘They Call Me Crazy: The Legend of Mike Wiegele’ film release at Masa’s Bar + Grill on Dec. 21, and the NHL All Stars event at Morrisey’s Pub on Jan. 25, which SPMRS is hosting instead of SPHL. For more details on upcoming events and public education evenings, visit spmountainrescue.com or the SPMRS Facebook page.

As of publishing Knive said they had 20 pieces donated but expected more.

“There are some really wonderful pieces that have been donated so far,” she said.

In addition, Tourism Sun Peaks is currently featuring several pieces in its monthly

art installation which will be auctioned off at the event. The office is located in the Sun Peaks Grand Residences.

The event will take place Dec. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $50 from the Sotheby’s office or Eventbrite and include a wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres.

Winter parking Winter parking rules are now in effect. Parking is not permitted in the road right-of-way on either side of the street at any time. This is to ensure the roads can be cleared effectively.

Heater safety With the cooler weather, Sun Peaks Fire Rescue would like to remind people to be careful with space heaters. Please be careful to have them in a safe place and not covered with anything. It’s also time to do annual furnace maintenance. If you have any questions or would like your smoke detector tested, please call the Fire Hall at 250-578-8985.

Rental Accomodation

Just a reminder that all properties renting tourist accommodation for anything less than a month-to-month tenancy requires proper zoning, a business licence and compliance with all municipal bylaws and BC Building/Fire Code regulations.

Wishing everyone a very happy holiday season!

Questions, comments and feedback can be sent to

www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

SPMRS MEMBERS BRENDEN WANNER, ABBY WILSON, ERIN MENDAY, CONNOR MORRISON AND SAMMIE MAYOR VOLUNTEER AT THE ULLR PARTY. Photo Supplied VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Fuel up and head up Burfield Bistro open in West Village COURTNEY JONES THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED BURFIELD BISTRO OPENED ITS DOORS ON FRIDAY, NOV. 22, PROVIDING A COZY PLACE FOR LOCALS AND TOURISTS ALIKE TO HANG OUT AND GRAB A BITE TO EAT BEFORE HITTING THE SLOPES. Burfield Bistro owner Richard Zimmer has worked in hospitality, bartending for the past 20 years at Whistler.

Last winter he and his family decided a change was needed after visiting Sun Peaks.

“We decided to try Sun Peaks out for a winter season last year and simply fell in love with the community and lifestyle,” Zimmer said.

“The locals are absolutely amazing, they go out of their way to help you and I’ve joked that Sun Peaks locals are the friendliest people I have ever met.”

The Burfield West

Development is still ongoing but is already having an impact on the community, with Richard purchasing the bistro’s space the first day it was offered.

“We were in the process of working on the design and concept for the 1,600 sq ft restaurant space in Burfield West (expected to open in 2021) when we met the developer who also owns the Burfield Hotel and Hostel,” Richard said.

“He appreciated our passion for restaurants and Sun Peaks, offering his common space in his hotel to get our feet wet before opening in Burfield West.

“The opening of the bistro, as anyone in the industry knows, was hectic and had minor issues. Much like ski racing, you are never going to get your best time your first run down the course, it takes a lot of practice and tweaking...We are looking for feedback and

patience from the locals and hope to create a menu unique to Sun Peaks which everyone will enjoy.”

Currently the menu features soups, chili, sandwiches, flatbread pizza, breakfast wraps and muffins, as well as coffee and espresso-based drinks to help warm up customers as the months get colder.

“We will be adding more items to the menu in the coming weeks, as well as a full liquor menu serving beer, wine, and cocktails,” Zimmer said.

Despite working full time, Zimmer’s wife, Kellie, has assisted in the start up in her spare time which Zimmer said he’s immensely thankful for.

“Kellie has managed many restaurants and is a level three Sommelier, so the wine selection will be British Columbia inspired with something for all palates to enjoy,” he said.

THE BURFIELD BISTRO IS NOW OPEN IN THE WEST VILLAGE. Photo Supplied

They have many exciting events planned, including wine pairing nights, themed music nights, Karaoke and DJ’s.

“We have so many people to thank, including the Sun Peaks community locals, municipality, trades, the Burfield Hotel and the other restaurant owners who gave advice and inspiration,” he said.

“If Sun Peaks wasn’t so

supportive, we probably wouldn’t have opened the Burfield Bistro, so we want to give back and make it the local’s place to be.”

The Burfield Bistro is located across from Burfield chairlift in the Burfield Hotel and is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information visit burfieldbistro.com or find them on Facebook.

After summer bike thefts SPRTA works to offer registration program SPRTA and municipality to launch 529 Garage

JEAN STRONG

THIS SUMMER A KAMLOOPS BIKE THIEF STOLE HEIDI MACGOWAN’S BIKE OFF HER PORCH. IT WAS PART OF A SPREE OF BICYCLE THEFTS IN SUN PEAKS THIS SUMMER, BOTH REPORTED TO RCMP AND NOT. Spurred by those actions in community this summer the Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association (SPRTA) will partner with Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality to offer registration with the RCMP-run 529 Garage initiative.

The program allows people to register their bikes for free, apply a tamper-resistant sticker to warn would-be thieves the bike is registered and alert police, bike shops and others if a bike is stolen to make it easier to find.

It was started in response to growing numbers of bicycle thefts in 2013 with the goal of giving riders, shops, police, cities and more tools to be “better organized

8

than criminals.”

Kamloops RCMP have also launched a website which will take reports of small certain crimes, including thefts of bikes under $5,000.

In September someone stole MacGowan’s Transition TR450 bike from her property. Exactly one week later Kamloops RCMP returned pieces of the bike to her after recovering them in Kamloops.

But, MacGowan said, the process wasn’t easy and she wants others to be aware of what they can do to protect themselves.

Security camera footage from MacGowan’s home showed the thief check her car’s bike rack before seeing the bike unsecured on her porch. He was equipped with a bolt cutter and carefully wheeled the bike away to keep it silent.

But while it was easy to lose it was challenging to get back. With the help of a Kamloops Facebook group she had the name of the person who took the bike and a photo of her parts and decals on a new frame, in addition to camera footage from her home, neighbours

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

HEIDI MACGOWAN’S BIKE BEFORE IT WAS STOLEN AND TAKEN APART. Photo Supplied

and municipal cameras.

Despite the information she gathered it took speaking with four RCMP officers to find one who immediately knew who had her bike. It had been poorly rebuilt twice to remove the frame, which provides the serial number.

MacGowan did receive parts of her bike back after a week of

investigating and many calls to the RCMP. Unfortunately the damage was so extensive it couldn’t be rebuilt and she will have to purchase a new bike.

Reflecting on the experience MacGowan said she would support registration with 529 Garage even if it’s not completely foolproof. She also encouraged the community to

lock their belongings and keep an eye out for people or vehicles who don’t belong.

“I learned not to give the bike thieves an opportunity,” she said.

For more information on the registration program as it’s available visit the Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association on Facebook.

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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LOCAL NEWS

Captured! Village Views

KYLE JAMES

SOMETIMES THE PHOTO ISN’T SO MUCH WHAT I’M LOOKING AT, BUT WHAT I CAN PUT INTO WHAT I’M LOOKING AT. LONG EXPOSURES ARE ONE OF MY FAVOURITE KINDS OF PHOTOS TO TAKE AND I REALLY ENJOYADDINGABITOFCHARACTER IN THE FRAME WITH MY OWN FLARE. This photo came from a creative collaboration with a local photographer friend of mine, Zuzy

Rocka. We each came with ideas on what we would like to achieve and coincidentally all the ideas involved some sort of light painting (using a torchtocreatelines,shapesoreffectsin photos). We walked around the village, scouting out potential backgrounds or settings for these ideas and settled on these rather cute trees. We ended up doing an hour or so of long exposures and had a whole lot of fun—laughing at the ones that didn’t quite work out and being stoked on the ones that did.

This photo session really confirmed being able to bounce ideas off another

creative photographer is one of this industry’s blessings.

Now, the technical part, how to create a similar photo! First thing you’ll need is a tripod. This will keep the camera steady during the long exposure, which can run anywhere between 15 to 30 seconds depending on the effect you are trying to create.

Next, either a remote or a shutter delay setting on your camera (waits two seconds after you press the shutter button before it takes the photo) which eliminates any hand shake that might otherwise affect your photo. If you are

shooting photos on your own, feel free to set the delay to longer to let you get into position easier.

Set up your camera, manually focus on the area you will be light painting in and hit the shutter button. It’s up to you then to get into position and draw as accurately as you can in the dark...with a phone flashlight (or other small light source). Don’t worry if the first one, or ten, don’t turn out properly, this is part of the fun for these types of photos. Good luck and have fun!

I have included the camera

Coming December 2019 in Peaks West A new, fresh food-to-go market focusing on regional producers Soups | Salads | Deli Meats and Cheeses | Marinated Fresh Meats Dry Goods | Fresh and Frozen House Made Family Meals

www.ohanasunpeaks.ca

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VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

settings for this photo below as a reference for you. If you do try a light painting long exposure I would love to see your efforts— feel free to shoot me an email or tag me on Instagram.

Settings: focal length 35mm / ISO 400 / aperture f/8.0 / 20 seconds exposure Kyle James is a photographer & filmmaker from Sun Peaks.

To see more of his work visit www.kylejames.co Contact: kylejamesimages@gmail.com

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

New yoga studio to open in December PERRI DIGBY

SUN PEAKS WILL SOON BE GETTING ITS OWN YOGA STUDIO. OPENING ON DEC. 20, SUN PEAKS YOGA IS THE LONG AWAITED PRODUCT OF OWNER KAYLA ALFRED’S HARD WORK AND DEDICATION. Alfred has had an attachment to Sun Peaks for a long time, constantly returning whenever she could. When the decision was made to return permanently Alfred looked at what the community could use, and what she enjoyed— and combined the two to create Sun Peaks Yoga.

The studio will offer a range of classes for all skill levels, and will include specialty classes such as glow in the dark yoga, prenatal and kids’ classes and a special teen class that will run on Friday nights and will aim to be a fun and inclusive experience.

It will also offer both an alternative and complementary

experience to skiing and snowboarding, with classes available throughout the day and evening. Classes will work on skills that enhance the snow sports experience but also offer a safe form of exercise for those who are not able to hit the mountain.

There will be a weekly ‘intro to yoga’ class, which will be a great way for people to try the studio, and will be offered by donation with proceeds going to a local charity.

Community is a huge part of Alfred’s aim for Sun Peaks Yoga, and has played a big role in the way she has planned her classes.

“I’m happy to have a community space...To have somewhere to go where you feel welcomed and safe, and like you are part of a family,” said Alfred.

With the studio set to open soon, Alfred has been working hard behind the scenes. She is already excited about the feedback she has received, and the teachers she is looking to involve in the studio.

While Alfred grew up with her father owning and operating his own business, it took perfect timing and a lot of practise teaching to open her own. The actual process has been a learning experience, she said.

“You learn all of this stuff on paper and then theoretically you follow the business plan but then immediately I was like I need this and this.”

On top of yoga, Alfred is also planning weekly workshops, which will cover a range of health centred topics and utilize experts from Sun Peaks and the surrounding area.

Alfred is also writing blog posts about her studio and experience, available on her website.

“It’s surprises but they are happy surprises. I am hoping my experience will help someone learn in the future.”

Find out more information at sunpeaksyoga.ca or by visiting Sun Peaks Yoga

Little Shuswap Lake Band continues economic development AND AN OFFICE SET TO OPEN IN KAMLOOPS.

JEAN STRONG

CALGARY, ALTA.-BASED STEEL RIVER GROUP (SRG), AN INDGIGENOUS OWNED AND OPERATED CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPANY, IS GROWING INTO B.C. WITH A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE LITTLE SHUSWAP LAKE BAND (LSLB)

In October the company announced the strategic relationship and said they will collaborate with LSLB on projects that are mutually beneficial to their economic interests and align with their shared values. “(LSLB) has recently demonstrated a successful model for improving the economic interests of the region through recreation, hospitality, resource

development and construction,” the announcement read. “SRG will work closely with the community to continue this momentum, by providing LSLB with an expanded scope of service offerings while delivering additional capacity to its existing businesses and operations.”

“Establishing a relationship with Little Shuswap Lake Band supports our mission to advance Indigenous businesses, maximize employment and integration,

KAYLA ALFRED WILL OPEN SUN PEAKS YOGA ON DEC. 20. Photo SPIN

and create long-term economic benefit to the communities in which we work,” said Trent Fequet, SRG founder and chief executive officer.

Fequet said personal relationships with the nation and LSLB administrators drew them to the area. The band’s ongoing success with businesses like Quaaout Lodge and Talking Rock Golf Course showed the potential offered by a partnership.

He described a working relationship that helps the band accomplish their own goals locally while also creating infrastructure in the area over a few years.

“When we decide on a nation we work with them for whatever their goals are,” he said. “When we

looked at the area they had a great chief and council and the same core values...It’s a great area.”

“Little Shuswap Lake Band perpetually seeks to fulfill its mandate to provide economic opportunity to our community,” said Chief Oliver Arnouse of the Little Shuswap Lake Band. “We believe this relationship, with Steel River Group, will allow our community to continue developing our regional economic strategies and create lasting, tangible impacts for our community members.”

Fequet added they will open an office in Kamloops in two months and Vancouver in December. It marks the first time the company has ventured west into B.C.

WINTER OPERATING HOURS BEGIN DECEMBER 1ST

SUN PEAKS TRANSFER STATION OPEN EVERYDAY 10AM - 6PM

tnrd.ca | 250.377.8673 | recycleright@tnrd.ca Change over Ad Sun Peaks.indd 1

2019-11-12 1:43:17 PM

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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COMMUNITY COLUMNIST VIEWS

Jake and the Jersey RON BETTS RESIDENT SKI WRITER ron@sunpeaksnews.com

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

THERE ARE VERY FEW PEOPLE WHO CAN SAY THEY STRUCK THE MATCH THAT STARTED A WORLDWIDE FIRE BUT JAKE BURTON WAS ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE. SURE, THERE WERE OTHER PEOPLE WHO CAME UP WITH THE IDEA OF SURFING ON SNOW, BUT IT WAS A KID FROM NEW YORK WHO TOOK THE ACT OF SLIDING DOWN A MOUNTAIN WHILE STANDING SIDEWAYS AND ELEVATED IT TO A STRATOSPHERIC LEVEL.

NOT ONLY DID JAKE CREATE A PRODUCT THAT APPEALED TO THOSE LOOKING FOR AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE REGIMENTED AND ORDERLY WORLD OF SKIING, HE ALSO HELPED CREATE A COUNTERCULTURE THAT TOOK THE WORLD BY STORM. The global family of winter and snow, both skiers and snowboarders, were shocked and saddened to hear of Jake’s passing on Nov. 20. While it was no secret that he had been battling some pretty big health concerns in recent years, people like Jake seem too intent on living to let things like sickness and death get in the way.

In the days that followed his passing, stories have

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

flooded social media about just how big an influence he was on the entire snow sports world. People who met him remember his passion, dedication to the sport, his willingness to spread the stoke to anyone he met and his loyalty to the people who made up the Burton family. Team riders were often lifelong crew, not just when their glimmer of fame served his business interests. Employees were extended family members.

My orbit entered his for a very brief time a few years back. I was a guide at Mike Wiegele Heliskiing and Jake was a long time guest of the resort. He started riding there in 1989 and returned often, sometimes to do promo work for the brand, sometimes to reward team athletes, sometimes just for fun and to shred deep pow. It was on one of his promo trips that I got the nod to guide his crew. I remember being a bit starstruck when we met at dinner on the first night that quickly faded when we got into the mountains the next day.

Regional residents pay a hefty share of new patient care tower 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.

PROVINCIAL POLITICIANS LOVE TO TALK ABOUT BUILDING HOSPITALS, AND SO THEY SHOULD. BUT IT’S NOT AS IF HEALTH CARE FACILITIES ARE BEING CREATED BY THE GENEROSITY OF THE GOVERNMENT MLAS WHO SIT IN THE LEGISLATURE IN VICTORIA. Taxpayers, of course, are the ones who open their wallets for the construction of much-needed hospitals and everything that goes into them.

But, it’s a myth that “there’s only one taxpayer.”

There are local taxpayers,

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provincial taxpayers and federal taxpayers.

When federal tax dollars are spent on community infrastructure, for example, it means taxpayers in that community pay less than if they had to finance it entirely on their own because they get the benefit of the population.

Obvious examples are infrastructure grants and gas tax grants. Under the most common type of infrastructure funding, the local government, provincial government and federal government each pay a third of the cost.

In the case of gas tax funding, the federal government allots money to local governments according to local population.

As I’ve often said, this funding is essential for a long list of community projects ranging from community halls to recreational trails and utilities

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

upgrades because rural communities don’t have enough taxpayers to afford them on their own.

In the case of hospitals, I always get mildly irked when a provincial politician brags about how much money his or her government has put into a project. It happens often in connection with the patient care tower under construction at Royal Inland Hospital.

It’s the much-anticipated latest phase in upgrades to RIH and, along with renovations, will include an expanded ER, rooftop helipad, 100 new parking stalls, respiratory services, operating rooms and visitor rooms for overnight stays, and a new hospital entrance along with a host of other improvements. The tower itself will be completed in 2022.

But the province isn’t paying

He was so genuinely stoked to be out there, it was contagious and inspiring. We’d had a layer of buried surface hoar that made avalanche conditions pretty spicy, we weren’t able to push it into some of the bigger terrain that everyone dreams about when they go heliskiing. I remember Jake being like a kid in a candy store; he didn’t care where we rode, he was just stoked to be riding.

One day, after we got back to Blue River, I said I was going over to the outdoor rink to play hockey with some of the other guides. Jake said he played some puck back in Vermont and asked if he could come along to watch. I can’t remember why he didn’t want to lace up and get out there but he did come and cheer from the sidelines. That night at dinner he kept commenting about how much he loved our jerseys. Earlier in the winter, someone from our group had gotten jerseys made up with an angry beaver on the front. The beaver was biting a hockey stick and our team

name was the Blue River Beaver Hunters. I could tell Jake loved it. I knew what I had to do, the next night at dinner I presented him with my freshly laundered jersey and told him to wear it proudly when he played back in Vermont. He was beyond happy.

About two weeks later a package arrived in Blue River with my name on it, inside was a treasure chest of Burton gear: hats, hoodies, stickers.

At the bottom of the box was a University of Vermont hockey jersey. The tag was signed by Jake and it said that he hoped we got a chance to skate together sometime.

I still have the jersey and I know I’ll be wearing it the next time I play, when I do I’ll be thinking of Jake. For someone who moved the needle as much as he did, he struck me as one of the most down to earth people I’d ever met. It’s hard not to really like people like that, especially if, in addition to nearly singlehandedly revolutionizing an industry, they also play hockey.

for all of it. Local taxpayers, through the Thompson Regional Hospital District (TRHD), are putting up $172 million, the RIH Foundation $20 million. The TRHD share comes as a result of a formula by which local taxpayers provide 40 per cent of the funding for health-care facilities.

That’s a pretty sizeable contribution. The TRHD has just approved its provisional budget for next year. It’s a whopping $79 million, up $17 million from the previous year, but the reason is a $53 million payment towards the patient care tower along with some other capital projects and equipment.

That means a 1.5 per cent increase in the tax requisition, or about $3 per average property. This will serve to keep reserves healthy in order to level out future project costs and avoid sticker shock.

As a matter of curiosity, I asked whether major corporate donations to the patient care

tower project are applied to the TRHD share of the cost, or the provincial share. The answer is that they reduce the provincial share.

Even then, local taxpayers get some benefit because it means the part they pay via provincial taxes is reduced.

At the same meeting, the board approved a long list of equipment purchases and renovations, 40 per cent of which is also paid at the local level.

So, the next time a provincial politician talks about how much money is being spent on the new patient care tower or other hospital project, remember that 40 per cent of it actually comes directly from regional residents, not provincial.

That said, I’ve never heard anyone complain about paying for better health facilities. And, looked at from the opposite direction, it’s great that local taxpayers don’t have to foot the entire bill.

THIS CHRISTMAS

MAKE

Memories NOT GARBAGE GIVE EXPERIENCES, NOT TRASH

DID YOU KNOW? MANY OF THE WELL-INTENDED GIFTS GIVEN AROUND THE HOLIDAYS END UP IN THE LANDFILL. CONSIDER GIVING GIFTS OF EXPERIENCES LIKE A WEEKEND AWAY OR TICKETS TO THEIR FAVORITE SHOW OR SPORTING EVENT.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE WRAPPING

DID YOU KNOW? MUCH OF THE WRAPPING USED AROUND THE HOLIDAYS IS ACTUALLY RECYCLABLE. CONSIDER BUYING 100% PAPER WRAPPING AND STAYING AWAY FROM WRAP CONTAINING FOIL OR PLASTIC.

WASTE-FREE ENTERTAINING

DID YOU KNOW? PLASTIC CUTLERY AND DISPOSABLE PLATES MAY BE CONVENIENT, BUT THEY’RE NOT RECYCLABLE AND END UP IN THE LANDFILL.

RECYCLE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE

DID YOU KNOW? YOU CAN BRING YOUR REAL TREE (WITHOUT LIGHTS/ TINSLE/ORNAMENTS) TO A LOCAL TNRD ECO-DEPOT OR TRANSFER STATION FOR FREE!

OPEN

SUN PEAKS TRANSFER STATION IS OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY, BOXING DAY, AND NEW YEARS DAY

tnrd.ca | 250.377.8673 | recycleright@tnrd.ca Be sure to follow us for all the latest information

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VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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2018-12-07 2:02:45 PM

Sharing local magic with the world

THOR GRUNDELL (MIDDLE) WITH FELLOW SUN HOSTS AT SUN PEAKS. Photo Supplied

JEAN STRONG

JOURNALISTS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND PASSIONATE SKIERS: ONE THING THEY ALL HAVE IN COMMON WHEN VISITING SUN PEAKS IS HAVING THE CHANCE TO SKI WITH SUN HOST THOR GRUNDELL. Until he retired from the volunteer ski host position last spring, Grundell had guided countless visitors to his favourite spots on the mountain.

From showing

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newbies where to practise their turns to leading media to secret powder stashes, Grundell has done it all.

Now the Sweedish-born skier spends his time at his home near Vernon, B.C., but is still deeply involved in the community.

While running a successful business in Vancouver in 1995 Grundell and his wife began bringing their two kids to the mountain for a week each season. As the village grew so did their love for it.

They purchased homes in the resort as they continued visiting a few times each

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

winter.

When Grundell retired there was no question about spending more time at Sun Peaks. He had been skiing since the age of three and had competed in races and ski jumping in Norway as a teen.

His passion for competition reignited, he began participating in the annual Telus Nancy Greene races. For five years he and his teammates consistently placed in the top three.

Grundell has also taken on many volunteer roles since deciding to spend half the year here.

He’s helped Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks teach students, guided guests down from mountain top fondue dinners and woken up early to show them the mountain before the chairlifts are open. He’s served drinks at wine festivals, been a gatekeeper for races, and spoken at many a welcome reception.

But most of his volunteer hours on the mountain were spent as a Sun Host.

For 17 years Grundell met visitors with a smile in front of the Village Day Lodge.

In that time he met journalists here to experience and write about the magic of Sun Peaks and characters like the CEO of a Norwegian ski resort who hosted Grundell in Norway after his visit.

“I have had the honour of guiding some of these people,” he said. “ I’ve made a lot of connections...you never know who you’re going to run into. I’ve made so many good friends internationally.”

Despite an injury which forced his retirement from the program Grundell is keeping up his involvement.

He’s passionate about the mountains and sharing his knowledge. Tucked in a binder are pages of notes on the history, events and wildlife of Sun Peaks he’s carefully prepared for himself to give guests the best information he can.

“I’ve tried to (help the resort) improve over the years with feedback and guest comments.”

For Grundell it’s all part of giving back to the community he loves.

“I don’t really need money, to me it’s a lot of fun.

“It’s that close feeling

you have, it’s trustworthy and helpful and you can always trust them. We party together, laugh together, ski together and everything. It’s rejuvenating.”

While he won’t be hosting guests one-on-one this winter he said he’s still focused on promoting Sun Peaks to the world.

“People need to get the message on the second largest ski resort. I travel and do what I can. I like to see guests here from all over the world.”

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ASSP benefits from Everest base camp trek COURTNEY JONES SINCE RETURNING FROM THEIR FUNDRAISING TREK TO MOUNT EVEREST BASE CAMP IN NEPAL, MARK AND HELEN JONES HAVE SURPASSED THEIR TARGET OF $5,000 TO HELP RAISE MONEY FOR ADAPTIVE SPORTS SUN PEAKS (ASSP).

After their 2016 bucket list climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, the pair decided a second trip was needed to help their favourite local organization with funding.

“Last time we didn’t have a target, but we were able to raise $2,500,” Helen said. “This year Mark had the idea to double the amount raised from last time and so we started our challenge with a target of $5,000.

Since returning from Nepal we’ve calculated our final amount to be $6,010.55.”

Proud of their achievement for ASSP, Helen and Mark are also thankful for the generosity of local businesses and the community since beginning their fundraising efforts earlier this year.

“New owners of the Vertical Café, Rob and Tania, created Cookies for a Cause,” Mark said. “They helped us

raise $833 over the summer, which was awesome. We’ve also had people dropping money in, we’ve run a GoFundMe page and the Sun Peaks Grand held a raffle and donated the proceeds to us.”

Despite numerous charities in the region, Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks has a special place in the Joneses’ hearts.

“We chose Adaptive because it’s local and we see them (the students) on the hill having fun and learning new skills,” Helen said.

“This year I have also decided to volunteer as an instructor and I’m really excited to start.”

Mark is also looking forward to seeing ASSP on the mountain for another season.

“It’s a great program and we get to see how it happens, how it operates and where our help has gone,” Mark said. “Last year we got to meet the kids who benefitted from our fundraising efforts. It was really special, and you don’t usually get that with most charities.”

Since returning from their Mount Kilimanjaro trip in 2016, both Mark and Helen continued their walking, helping them to keep up their training for Mount Everest Base Camp.

“As soon as the snow melted, we

MARK AND HELEN JONES POSE WITH THE ADAPTIVE SPORTS SUN PEAKS BANNER AND SMILE COOKIES MADE FOR A FUNDRAISER AT VERTICAL CAFE. Photo Supplied

started walking and if we couldn’t hike in Sun Peaks we would go away for weekends and find other places,” Helen said. “We were walking as much as we could at Sun Peaks because of the altitude. Every opportunity we’ve had over summer to walk, we’ve taken it.”

Nothing, however, could prepare the couple for the climatization days, where hikers were required to rest for hours at a time.

“The hardest part of the trek was keeping warm, especially during rest days when you had nothing to do,” Mark said.

“It’s not ridiculously cold like here (Sun Peaks) but there is no break from it. The walk itself is a lot of steps and a long way, but there is nothing steeper than what you would do at Sun Peaks. The biggest challenge was the altitude; you didn’t know how it was going to affect you each day. Everything is harder, your sleep gets messed up and you’re getting headaches too.”

Across the 11 day journey the pair encountered a variety of weather conditions.

“We went through snow, a lot of ice and but then we had some really

beautiful days,” Helen said. “It was eight days up and three down, with the return distance 55 kilomteres.

It was absolutely worth it and we’re already looking to what we’ll do next, but it won’t be until 2021.

“We really couldn’t have done it without the support of Sotheby’s International Realty here in Sun Peaks, Vertical Café, the Sun Peaks Grand and Jenny from Adaptive Sports who has just been fantastic.”

The community is encouraged to follow the couple on Instagram @thejonesdoebc2019 for updates on their next adventure.

Locals 10-week programs Start January 11 or 12*, 2020

Learning, the snow way.

Sun Peaks. Where you belong.

LOCAL KIDS PROGRAM: 10 LESSONS Choose Saturdays or Sundays 2 hours, 10:00am or 1:00pm $289 | 4 to 5 years old (Minis)† $279 | 6 to 12 years old (Juniors)† LOCAL ADULTS PROGRAM: 10 LESSONS Same dates as Kids Program.

Check online for details!

SunPeaksResort.com/Locals-Lessons WEEKEND FREESTYLE CAMP Learn the fundamentals of riding features in our 10-acre the terrain park.

Skiers 6 to 12 | Snowboarders 8 to 12 Saturdays | Full Day | 10:00am to 3:00pm $456 for 10 Saturdays Sundays | 2 hours | 1:00pm to 3:00pm $288 for 10 Sundays SunPeaksResort.com/Freestyle To register, call Sports School at 250.578.5505 or email SportSchool@sunpeaksresort.com

Taxes extra. Prices do not include lift ticket or rentals. Other restrictions may apply, please inquire. *Programs break the weekend of February 15/16, 2020. †Snowboard Minis 4-7, Juniors 8-12.

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

15

MONTH IN PHOTOS

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THE TALL HANDSOME CLUB PERFORMED AT THE ANNUAL ULLR PARTY FUNDRAISER. Photo Morgan Walter

RESIDENTS GATHERED FOR REMEMBRANCE DAY ON NOV. 11.

Photo SPIN

MEMBERS OF SUN PEAKS FIRE RESCUE ATTENDED THE ANNUAL FIREFIGHTER’S SOCIETY GALA. Photo Kyle James

THE BC ALPINE TEAM TOOK ADVANTAGE OF EARLY SNOW AT THE SUN PEAKS’ INTERNATIONAL RACE CENTRE IN NOVEMBER. Photo Supplied

THE ANNUAL BLUEBIRD DAY FUND FALL BALL WAS ANOTHER SOLD OUT EVENT. Photo Alpine Images

MASTIN HOOPER, MORGAN FRANKLIN AND CHARLIE ROBERTS CAUGHT FIRST CHAIR OF THE SEASON AFTER CAMPING OUT OVERNIGHT. Photo SPIN

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VIMFF to visit Sun Peaks NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 6:30 PM Tuesday December 3, 2019 JEAN STRONG

THE VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL (VIMFF) WILL STOP IN SUN PEAKS THIS WINTER WITH THE HELP OF ART ZONE SUN PEAKS. On Jan. 18 the event will feature creations for the internationally acclaimed festival for $15 per ticket.

It’s the first time Art Zone will host this style of event. It comes after a program overhaul and desire to expand into film and photography.

“During our re-imagining exercise in April it was decided to broaden the scope of ArtZone and the VIMFF is a great opportunity to do that,” said Marj Knive,

Art Zone president.

Knive said the event will help them test the appetite for film viewings and workshops in the community.

While the exact films haven’t yet been selected, Knive said she’s previewed more than 20 so far to select the best for the viewing.

“Wherever there are mountains in the world that’s where the films take place.”

Knive added despite being mountain focused they include a variety of sports and topics like the environment, biking, hiking, climbing and, of course, skiing.

Attendees can expect to view between eight and ten films at the event.

Other partners in hosting the event are the Hearthstone Lodge and Sun Peaks Resort LLP. Bella Italia Restaurant

will host an after party with drink and food specials to give attendees the chance to discuss the films.

Tickets are available through a Facebook event titled “Art Zone presents the 2019 Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival.”

Looking for a business or service in Sun Peaks?

Check out our online business directory at: local.sunpeaksnews.com

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality Council gives notice that it will hold a Public Hearing at Cahilty Hotel & Suites, 3220 Village Way, Sun Peaks, BC, to consider proposed Bylaw Nos. 0143, 2019 and 0144, 2019.

What is Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 0143, 2019 and Temporary Use Permit Bylaw No. 0144, 2019?

Bylaw 0143 is a change to Zoning Bylaw No. 1400 to rezone 4102 Sundance Drive from RS-1A: Residential Single One – Tourist Accommodation to RS-1: Residential Single Family.

Bylaw 0144 is a Temporary Use Permit Bylaw to allow the use of 3 bedrooms in the principal dwelling for tourist accommodation use (short-term/nightly rental) at 4151 Sundance Drive. The specific conditions are as stipulated in the proposed permit, which forms a part of Bylaw 0144.

All persons who believe that their interest in property may be affected by the proposed Bylaws shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the Public Hearing. Additionally, they may make written submissions on the matter of these Bylaws (via any of the below options) which must be received at our office prior to 4:00 p.m. on the 2nd day of December, 2019. The entire content of all submissions will be made public and form a part of the public record on this matter.

How do I get more information?

A copy of the proposed Bylaws and all supporting information can be inspected from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday (except statutory holidays) at our office from November 12, 2019 until 4:00 p.m. the day of the Hearing; or please contact us via any of the below options.

No representations will be received by Council after the Public Hearing has been concluded.

Snowbombing Canada postponed for 2020 JUSTIN MOORE CANADA’S BIGGEST MOUNTAIN PARTY IS TAKING A BREAK IN THE NEW YEAR. Snowbombing Canada, the electronic music festival that has called the village of Sun Peaks home for the past three years, announced through Instagram on Oct. 9 that the event would not be returning to the mountain in 2020.

“This year, we’ve decided to take a break to work on building a bigger and better adventure for all of our Snowbombers,” a post from Snowbombing Canada read.

Taking over the first weekend of April last year, Snowbombing brought headliners Illenium and American Hip-Hop group Cypress Hill, along with many other DJs and EDM enthusiasts, to multiple stages spread across the village.

Daytime events and activities like the Slush Cup and Snowga put on by the festival will also be missed this year as event organizers regroup to plan future

festivals.

“Snowbombing has been a fantastic experience for the artists, our team and the guests who have enjoyed incredible music and events in such an amazing setting.

We’ve simply decided to take a year off in order to work on 2021’s event,” said Nate Sabine, director of business development for Blueprint Events, said in an email.

Organizers decided to postpone the festival to look at new models to cut back costs for 2021 and launch ticket sales in enough time, according to Arlene Schieven, president of Tourism Sun Peaks.

“They felt they could do a good job of that if they took a year off,” Schieven said.

While a follow-up festival in 2021 has not been confirmed, Sabine said that plans would be announced in the coming months.

In the meantime, hotels and local businesses will see a quieter April than in recent years, with Snowbombing being one of the last significant events of the

Rob Bremner, Chief Administrative Officer In Person: 106-3270 Village Way, Sun Peaks, BC V0E 5N0 Email: admin@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca Fax: 250-578-2023

SNOWGA IS ONE ACTIVITY THAT WON’T TAKE PLACE IN APRIL. Photo SPIN

season, last year taking place a week before the resort’s closing weekend. Schieven estimated that Snowbombing brought roughly three to four thousand people to the community for the weekend,

varying year to year. “(The festival postponing) does impact businesses at that time, and we’ll work hard to fill those rooms with other guests,” Schieven stated.

So far there are no plans to replace the festival with another event in April.

Schieven added there are still other events to look forward to, such as Tod Mountain Days.

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

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EVENTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

ONG OI NG E V E N T S TUESDAY THURSDAY

Locals Night Bottoms Bar & Grill PABST Bingo Night Bottoms Bar & Grill

Open Mic Night 9p.m Morrisey’s Public House

FRIDAY

Live Music 9p.m Morrisey’s Public House

The best spot in the village for live music!

SATURDAY

Live Music 9p.m Morrisey’s Public House

Masa’s Club Nights 10p.m Masa’s Bar & Grill

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Tourism Sun Peaks monthly art exhibition, in collaboration with ArtZone, in the Grand Residences.

Aprés Ski Italian Snack Bar (Starting Dec. 6) 3-5p.m Bella Italia

Every Thursday at 9pm

This month features seven local artists and will be auctioned off at the Annual Sotheby’s International Realty Canada Benefit Art Auction on Dec. 12.

LIVE MUSIC Fridays and Saturdays Watch for special events to be announced throughout the winter.

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Dec TOURISM SUN PEAKS MEMBER MEETING 3P.M. Hearthstone Lodge

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DJ SPUNLOGIC AT THE UGLY SWEATER PART Y 10P.M. Masa’s Club Nights

SUN PEAKS HEALTH ASSOCIATION AGM 6:30P.M. Cahilty Lodge

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Loxton takes over as SPRTA president, looks forward to big plans The future is bright, and busy, for trail association JEAN STRONG

AFTER FOUR YEARS OF LEADING THE SUN PEAKS RECREATIONAL TRAIL ASSOCIATION (SPRTA) JASE PETERSEN HAS STEPPED DOWN AS PRESIDENT. The change was announced at the groups AGM in early November, whose mandate is to promote a healthy lifestyle and appreciation of the environment through the maintenance and development of trails in and around Sun Peaks.

Petersen said after helping to lead the group since it’s start, it was time to step back to focus on big changes in his professional life and allow someone else with the same passion to take over.

“It wasn’t an easy decision,” he said.

Member Sam Loxton has taken on the role of president after a few years serving on the board.

Loxton and Petersen both expressed pride at SPRTA’s achievements in the last year.

“I think 2019 was a fantastic year for SPRTA,” said Loxton. “Having an expanded board and the new membership program in place let us accomplish a lot this summer, both out on the trails and in building bike stoke amongst the community.”

After a well attended trail building workshop in the spring, members volunteered each week in the summer to create a new trail which runs from Sunburst Dr. to Burfield Dr., aptly named Sunburf.

After some touch ups and a small extension when the snow melts the trail will be added to TrailForks and ready to ride.

Members were also busy working on a trail near Mt. Morrisey, hosting

a booth at the Farmers’ Markets and organized events like Ladies Who Shred and a film premiere.

The High Five Day also benefited the group, raising more than $4,000 for their work. Overall SPRTA raised $10,200 this year from various donations and events.

Looking forward Petersen will stay on the board as past president to help guide Loxton.

“We’ve got big dreams for the trail network up here,” Loxton said. “The end goal is to have an expansive, fun, and free-to-use trail network for everyone in the community to enjoy.”

Loxton said SPRTA’s priorities for the upcoming year include applying for newly-required provincial permits for work within the controlled recreation area and building more trails.

Outside of the immediate area of the resort, SPRTA is also exploring other nearby areas for potential new trails. The group would like to develop a secondary network of trails at a lower elevation than Sun Peaks to allow for riding earlier and later in the season.

“The terrain in Sun Peaks has tons of potential for trails, however we’d love to create a second network at a lower elevation to give us a longer riding season up here,” Loxton said. “We’re currently looking into options to make this happen, but we want to make sure we do it legally and in cooperation with other existing land users, so that process will likely take at least a couple of years before we can get started.”

Work will also continue with Sun Peaks Resort LLP to clarify management and maintenance of cross country trails near Mt. Morrisey.

In order to continue adding and improving on trails, Loxton said,

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they are also considering the use of paid contractors. To achieve this they need to raise significant funds so they plan to focus on grant applications and expanding their membership and fundraising programs.

“It’s an honour to take over as president from Jase and build on all of the work he’s done for the community. I want to say a big thank you to him and the rest of the board for all their work this year, as well as to all of our members and volunteers for their support. We’ll keep working hard over the winter and I’m really excited about what SPRTA will achieve in 2020.”

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SAM LOXTON TOOK OVER AS SPRTA PRESIDENT AT A RECENT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. Photo Supplied

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Race teams on mountain despite lack of snowfall JEAN STRONG

THIRTY FIVE TEAMS OF SKI R ACERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD H AVE VISITED OR WILL VISIT THE RESORT THIS NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER TO TAKE PART IN PRE-SEASON TR AINING. Group s f rom B .C ., Alberta , O ntar io , Que b e c , th e Unit ed Stat e s and oth e r i nt er n at ion al mountai ns u se Su n Pe a k s ’ inte rnat ional r ace t ra i n i n g centre on O SV to ge t on s now e ar ly in th e s e a s on .

A id a n Kelly, c h ie f marketi ng of f icer for Su n

Pe a k s Re s ort LL P, sa id on s n ow c on dit ion s have b een go o d on t h e c ou rse. “ Ra c e t ra i n i ng st a rt ed on t i m e a n d e veryt hin g ha s been p ro gre s sin g well,” h e s a i d. “ T h e operat ion s t e a m at Su n Pea ks prides t h e m s e lve s on a q u alit y p ro duc t ye a r af t er yea r a n d it ’s a ke y re a son why we h ave s o m a ny ret u rn in g t e a m s e a c h sea son . The i nt e re s t i n g weat her p at t e rn s i n re c ent weeks h ave m e a nt t hat g et t in g t o a n d f rom t h e r a c e t ra in in g c o urs e h a s mea nt a b it m ore e f fort , b ut t he a c t u al c o urs e it s e l f is skiin g we ll due t o ou r sn ow m a k i n g c ap a b ilit ies.”

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Nancy Greene and Alpine Canada renew relationship Ski league to continue with Greene’s name JEAN STRONG AFTER 50 YEARS OF SHAPING YOUNG RACERS THE NANCY GREENE SKI LEAGUE IS SET TO CONTINUE FOR MANY MORE. Sun Peaks resident and champion skier Nancy Greene has given Alpine Canada (ACA) the rights to use her name for the league in perpetuity.

The organization has played a key role in the development of many of the country’s best

skiers including Brady Leman (ski cross) and Ben Thomsen (alpine).

“I’ve followed the ski league over the years with great satisfaction,” said Greene in a press release. “The original philosophy is still valid today, it’s all about ski racing for the fun of it. Of course, our goal is to create great technical skiers who can shine on the world stage, but more importantly, it is for kids to become passionate skiers for life.”

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Over $28,000 was raised in support of the Sun Peaks Education Society and Sun Peaks Skate Park Foundation

Gal a T H A N K YO U 5 FORTY CAFE & GRILL A & T DEVELOPMENTS ALPINE IMAGES ALTITUDE PLUMBING & HEATING ANFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY NATALIE MITCHELL & MIKE ANFIELD ANTARES COUNSELLING AND EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPY KAREN LARA BARB BRODIE BARB KUPFERSCHMIDT LINDER BELLA ITALIA RISTORANTE BEN MORRIS BEYOND EXCUSES PROFESSIONAL COACHING SERVICES BLACK BEAVER ATHLETIC BLUEBIRD MARKET & OSO NEGRO OHANA MARKET - BOBBE LYALL BOTTOMS BAR & GRILL BURFIELD BISTRO CAHILTY CREEK KITCHEN & TAPROOM CAHILTY HOTEL & SUITES CANADIAN NATIONAL SKIER CROSS TEAM- BRADY LEMAN CANADIAN NATIONAL SKIER CROSS TEAM- BRIT FHELAN CANADIAN NATIONAL SKIER CROSS TEAM- CHRIS DELBOSCO CANADIAN NATIONAL SKIER CROSS TEAM- KELSEY SERWA

CANADIAN NATIONAL SKIER CROSS TEAM- MARIELLE THOMPSON CANNON FAMILY CATES FORD EPP LAW CANDACE CATES CHRIGEL’S TIMBER CHALET INC. COAST SUNDANCE LODGE DELTA HOTELS KAMLOOPS DEVICK FAMILY & RANGELAND MEATS DISCOVER SUN PEAKS ADVENTURES DOM KORIC PHOTOGRAPHY DOWN THE ROAD WELLNESS DR. RICK ODEGAARD FAST ACTION FISHING ADVENTURES FIONA GOODSON FONDUE STUBE AT SUN PEAKS LODGE FORNO ON 5TH FOUR WINDS MASSAGE THERAPY AND YOGA, BRENDA WILKINSON, RMT FREEFALL SUN PEAKS HEARTHSTONE LODGE HILLS OF KERRISDALE ISABELLA HAMPTON STONE JANICE RUTHERFORD NOTARY PUBLIC JARDINES SUN PEAKS JENNY HAWES KAMLOOPS SYMPHONY KIDS FROM WHITECROFT KORINA LINDER KRISTINA BENSON ART

KYLE JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY LA DOLCEVITA LAHAINA PROJECTS NATHAN & JILL KALINOCKA LITTLE LAKE CLEANING CO. LEE PATJAS LIZ DERKSEN ART LN GROUP BRANDING & PROMOTIONS MARLIE MARCHEWKA DESIGNS BY M & J MCSPORTIES - MATTHIAS SCHMID MELISSA VIKE REMAX REAL ESTATE MIKE WEIGELE HELICOPTER SKIING MISSBEEHIVEN HONEYKENNY DALE MOUNTAIN HIGH PIZZA MOUNTAIN MAN ADVENTURES MOUNTAIN TIGER NANCY GREENE RAINE NORTHWEST VOYAGEUR COMPANY PADDLE SURFIT - BODIE SHANDRO PRAIRIE COAST EQUIPMENT DOUG HAUGHTON PURITY FEEDS - JOHN MCCURRACH QUAAOUT RESOT LODGE AND SPA STEPHANIE GEDDES LARK FROLEK-DALE RE/MAX ALPINE RESORT REALTY SUN PEAKS ROBBIE MILLER - ARTIST

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATES ROSS & AMY BLAKENEY SAVE ON FOODS SNEAKY SKALLYWAGS STEAKHOUSE AT SUN PEAKS LODGE STERLING LAND- RBC STYLE FOR EVERYONE HAIR STUDIO SUE DANIEL SUMMERHILL PYRAMID WINERY SUN PEAKS ACADEMY OF DANCE SUN PEAKS CREATIVES VOICE COACHING - MARIA CANNON SUN PEAKS GRAND SUN PEAKS LODGE & STEAKHOUSE SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP SUN PEAKS YOGA TARYN SCHWANKE TASTEFULL EXCURSIONS THE MAGIC CATTLE GUARD THOMPSON REGIONAL CONTRACTING TONY’S WELDING - BRIAN MAYO TOURISM SUN PEAKS TYLER & LORNA SMID, WHELEN ULTIMATE DISTRIBUTION KEVIN HARRIS WESTWAY PLUMBING & HEATING ZIMMER WHEATON

SUN PEAKS

Rescue Fire

Specializing in Fine Custom Homes

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20

23

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

NEW LISTING

2431 FAIRWAYS DRIVE | $1,399,000

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.

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.

the number 1 real estate company in North America, has been a proud partner of Children’s Miracle Network for over 26 years. RE/MAX agents across Canada dedicate countless resources and time to volunteering and giving back in their local communities. It is these efforts that have made RE/MAX one of Children’s Miracle Network largest partners raising over $57 Million dollars across Canada. The funds are primarily generated through the Miracle Home Program ®, where agents donate a percentage of each real estate transaction to their local Children’s Miracle Network member hospital. Thank you to our past and future clients for making miracles happen.

Experience one of the best slope side locations in Sun Peaks, from this turn-key fully furnished one bedroom lock-off style apartment in the popular Cahilty Hotel & Suites. Comfortably sleeps 6, and features 2 queen beds with a full bath on one side; queen sized bed plus the convenience of a full kitchen and full bathroom on the studio side. Appreciate being “close to it all”, with four season recreation right at your doorstep! Owners enjoy the benefit of unrestricted owner use plus the ability to capture rental income when you are not using the property personally, GST applies.

#342/344 CAHILTY HOTEL

| $187,000

#6-3300 TIMBERLINE VILLAGE |

$349,900

Located in Timberline Village, this spacious one bedroom condo has great ski-in access. Just far enough away from the hustle and bustle to offer a peaceful retreat, while only steps to the village stroll and its many shops and restaurants.

This cheery home features full kitchen, cozy rock fireplace and a great sundeck.

This is a bright and welcoming well maintained home, fully equipped with six appliances and furnishings and includes one designated parking space. Pets and rentals allowed. GST paid. Call for more info & viewing opportunities.

#24 TRAILS EDGE |

$859,000

Location! location! Steps away to skiing from this 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom town home in popular Trail’s Edge. Ski out to the Morrissey and Orient chairs and ski home from the Sundance and Orient chairs. This mountain retreat offers a great open floor plan with expansive window packages and great ceiling height. Outdoor decks, patio plus a2 car garage for parking and storage. Offered furnished with hot tub, GST paid.

NEW LISTING

#1304B GRAND RESIDENCES | $103,900 Fractional interest offering 1/4 ownership by way of registered fee simple title. Deluxe 2 bedroom, 2 bath apartment in the centre of Sun Peaks Village. Located in the ski-in, ski-out Grand Residences and managed by the Sun Peaks Grand with access to all their amenities (pools, hot tubs, valet ski storage, room service, gym, sauna). This is luxurious 2 bedroom accommodation with exceptional finishing and furnishing throughout. Great indoor and outdoor living with fantastic views of Tod Mountain.

#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.

#24 CRYSTAL FOREST |

$359,000

This immaculate top floor one bedroom corner apartment has great ski access and loads of in suite storage and secure underground parking. Upgraded counters, vanities, flooring, and comes fully furnished. Heated tile floors, cozy two sided gas fireplace, in-suite laundry, open living with access to your private covered deck with great views to the top of Tod Mountain. GST paid.

#1208A GRAND RESIDENCES | $69,900 Luxury at its finest! This one bedroom condo comes fully furnished and comfortably sleeps four. Prime village location with true ski-in, ski-out access and full use of hotel amenities such as hot tubs, swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurants, ski & bike valet, room service and more. Perfect for extended stays and includes a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops & stainless steel appliances, private in suite laundry, inviting living room with adjoining dining area, cozy fireplace and sundeck with

#152/154 CAHILTY HOTEL | $214,000 UPGRADES FULLY UNDERWAY - READY FOR SKI SEASON! Owner has committed to NEW flooring, countertops, furniture, lighting, artwork, sinks & faucets.

Conveniently located on the main floor, this fully furnished lock-off suite features a desirable full sized kitchen, perfect for extended year round getaways, with 1 queen sized bed and full bath, and 2 queen sized beds and full bath in the adjoining room.

Hotel amenities include ski storage, family restaurant, secure underground parking and laundry facilities. GST applicable.

SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 24

VOL 17 ISSUE 12 NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 20