Apex Matters “Keeping You in the S’know”
Published by Okanagan Matters Publications
www.ApexMatters.com
Apex Opens on Saturday, December 7th! Nickel Plate Nordic Centre is Now Open!
Volume 11 : Issue 1 Your FREE Local Snow Culture Newsletter!
December 1-15, 2013
apexmatters@telus.net
250.490.6951
Quick Facts: 2500 copies are printed twice a month from December 2013 through March 2014. Distribution covers Oliver, Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, Penticton & Summerland. See website for full distribution details on December 1st. Advertising Package available at www.apexmatters.com.
Fresh Untracked Powder ... Coming Soon! Photo courtesy of Apex Mountain Resort
Mark Pankratz 250-488-1568
Experience the Difference
“Like us” on Facebook! All of our combined Facebook Friends qualify for a Free Day Pass Draw happening on December 5th. Like us both today & you could win!
South Country Realty
www.MarkPankratz.com
Winner to be announced on our Facebook pages & in the next issue of Apex Matters.
Page 2
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Welcome Back!
I don't know about you, but I get so excited when November rolls around. It means my ski dreams are soon to be a reality again. I can't wait! It is likely obvious that I love winter, just as I do all the other seasons. But, there is something about winter and playing outdoors that invigorates me. It's that clean, calm, crisp, quietness that rejuvenates me to the core. Then fly down a slope of untouched Myleen Mallach, Owner/Publisher powder with all my senses aligned, Okanagan Matters Publications thinking of nothing more than the next Apex Matters & Skaha Matters few of turns ahead ... the payback from my weightless, rhythmic flowing movement mirrors my effort made. Push more get more, or sit back and enjoy the ride. Either way, I am living in an amazing moment! I stop to catch my breath and let my legs recover. While I glance around the pristine landscape, I sense peace and tranquility with the biggest grin my whole body could project. I am 'one' with my self, my skis, my world ... I feel like I must be related to Ullr, or perhaps he is watching. OK. If you felt any of that last paragraph, then you're are a thrill seeking powder fiend just like me. If you think I'm nuts, that is totally fine. After all, there are 'no friends on powder days'. I am excited and honoured to bring you this free local snow culture newsletter. New issues will come out twice a month from December through March. You can catch up on the latest product knowledge from our ski and board shops, hear about snow adventures in our backyards, stay current with club updates, find out about ski and stay specials, never miss out on an Après ski party, get coupons, enjoy specials, win prizes and even push our thinking a little further ... its all right here at your finger tips in Apex Matters. I would like to give a huge thanks to all the advertisers and content contributors. Without their support, we wouldn't have Apex Matters. Cheers to them, Ullr, and a great season ahead!
Tech Talk ...
with Ray Keetch, Manager of Apex Mountain Shop Here we are with the 2013/14 season upon us. Wasn’t Y2K just yesterday? The more things change, the more they stay the same ... don’t they? Yes, I’m back running the Mountain Shop for Apex Mountain Resort. You will notice some changes in the shop’s layout, but mostly you should notice an increase in selection and our aggressive pricing should make you want to support your local shop. Apex has purchased a new stonegrinder machine and generally improved the service shop. I will guarantee world class tunes at prices you will like! Our ski and boot selection will be most impressive and geared toward the Apex skier. Let’s face it, Apex has very little in common with the average ski hill, so the product you will find in the Mountain Shop is an accumulation of 30+ years of experience right here at Apex. I encourage you to drop by, say ‘hi’, and check out our new offerings. I look forward to chatting with all my old friends here at Apex.
Welcome to another great season at the
Come Celebrate Opening Weekend with our DJ on Saturday, December 7th! Join us for Vancouver Canuck Games and get entered to win monthly Canuck Tickets! Good Food Good Service Good Times gunbarrel@shaw.ca
250.292.8515
p. 250.762.7722 | f. 250.762.2232 toll free 877.311.7722 service@okanaganofficesystems.com 523 Lawrence Avenue, Kelowna
“Serving all your Office Equipment and Stationary needs”
Apex Mountain Shop Located in the village of Apex Mountain Resort
Season Opening Deals! Head Rev 90 Rockered All Mountain Ski with binding Blow Out Price ~ $499.95
(reg $899.95)
Apex Mountain Resort Logo T-shirts Blow Out Price ~ $10 tax inc.
(reg $36.95)
Home of ‘try before you buy’! Demos for Skis & Snowboards.
Specializing in Boot Fitting & Equipment Tuning
www.ApexResort.com
1.877.777.2739
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Page 3
Opening Day is December 7th
What's New on the Mountain? 5 New Runs! Including “The Cut”, connecting the Wildside with the Quad! New Restroom at the Top of the Triple Chair! New Day Lodge replacing what was the Longshot Bar! Apex welcomes long-time Apex character, Steve Sheridan, as Gunbarrel Manager! The Christmas Gift that keeps on giving!
SAVE BIG! With the Apex Power Pass! Good for 7 days of skiing. The first day is $10 off a full day ticket, days 2-6 are 10% off a full day ticket, and the seventh day is FREE!
Power Passes are now being sold downtown at: Freeride Boardshop / Pentagon / Apex Ski Shop / True Outdoors Discounted day lift tickets available at various Costco locations and Penticton Sport Chek.
www.ApexResort.com
1.877.777.2939
Page 4
December 1-15, 2013
Welcome Back to Nickel Plate Nordic Centre
By Esther Skrypiczajko, President We are excited to announce that Nickel Plate Nordic is open for the season! The ticket office and rental shop is open daily from 9 am - 3 pm. The inner ski trails are being groomed on a daily basis, weather permitting, and the outer ones will be opened as snow level and time permit. There was a lot of blowdown on the snowshoe trails, but they are being cleaned up by staff and volunteers. The Gold Dust and Quick Silver snowshoe trails have been cleared and well ribboned and are ready to welcome snowshoers. Check at the ticket office for snowshoe trail conditions. The board is pleased to announce that Jack Ambler has taken over as General Manager. Jack has worked for us for several years and we look forward to working with him. We would like to thank Keith for his years of dedication and service to Nickel Plate in helping to make it the great place it is today. We have an opening for a part-time ticket office clerk. If you are interested in that position check our website at www. nickelplatenordic.org for more information. Once again, we have lots of social activities and barbeques planned for the coming season. Check the next edition of Apex Matters for dates and details. On Saturday, December 14th, we will have our first moonlight ski of the season. Skiing will be followed by a Potluck Dinner at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome. Our website, www.nickelplatenordic.org, has current weather and snow conditions, as well as lots of other information and photos. Check it out! Looking forward to seeing you on the trails ‘clear above the clouds’.
Nickel Plate Nordic Centre has a new sign to welcome you. Installed during the off season, as you can see here, is sure to be an eye catcher this winter. Thanks to everyone who worked on this project. It looks great!
ApexMatters.com
Welcome to the Nickel Plate Nordic Centre Office Open 9-3 Daily www.nickelplatenordic.org
56 kms of Groomed & Track Set Ski Trails / 25 kms of Marked Snowshoe Trails Day Lodge & Kitchen Facilities / Heated Washrooms / Change Rooms & Showers Ski & Snowshoe Rentals & Lessons Available
Nickel Plate Skill Development
By Audrey Perry, Skill Development Coordinator Nickel Plate Nordic Centre has been teaching children the FUNdamentals of cross country skiing for over 10 years. We offer lessons to kids from 4 to 14. Younger kids are welcome to join in our Cottontail program and older kids can either follow the racing path and join the Junior Racers, or become trained as coaches themselves. The Skill Development Program (SDP) is an excellent way to get your children involved in the great sport of cross country skiing. All SDP coaches are volunteers and are trained Community Coaches through the National Coaching Certification Program. Nickel Plate is open and the snow is beautiful! The coaches of the SDP are getting ready for the season. This year we will have 14 coaches. Our 8 week program will begin on Saturday, January 11th. Bunnies have a one hour lesson and Jackrabbits and Track Attack ski for a full two hours. We are introducing a new ski group to our program this year. Trailblazers is for the pre-teen to teen skier who has been through the skill program and wants to continue working on their skiing technique and enjoy some longer skis. The kids in this group will also have a chance to help out with the younger skiers and try their hand at a little coaching themselves. For more information, check out our website www. nickelplatenordic.org. Act Fast! We have a limited number of spaces left for children in the Jackrabbit and Track Attack levels. See you up on the trails.
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Page 5
The Edge ~ On Mountain & In Town
with Chad and Colin On Mountain ~ Edge Bistro: Open Everyday - Seven days a week - at 7:00 am Sunday thru Thursday until 5:00 pm Friday, Saturday, Holidays until 9:00 pm Open every day from Friday, Nov 29th until April 7th! It is hard to believe that we are already entering our fourth season at Apex Mountain Resort. Time flies when you are having fun, and Chad, Colin, and their families truly enjoy serving up breakfast, lunch, dinners, and treats to the local crowd and destination guests. With a menu full of fresh soups, sandwiches, and healthy options, plus a few gourmet goodies, there is something for everyone. Conveniently located next to the Mountain Shop and above the Snow School, we offer an exceptionally fast, fresh, and friendly environment to enjoy a homemade lunch while checking out the best views on the mountain. Or, if you need to rest those sore legs after some great runs, you can enjoy your favorite hot beverage, sit back, relax, and recharge for the next session. When evening hits and you want a simple dinner, check-out our take-and-bake pizza selection. With our stone oven baked crust, the pizzas are a delicious option for an easy dinner for yourself, family or friends. Don’t forget it is an Olympic Year! And, we at The Edge Bistro will have each event on and will be cheering loud for our Canadian team. So excited to watch the local athletes compete at the sports they love. Ask us about on mountain catering, special events, team meal plans, party trays, and group functions. In Town ~ Edge Coffee House: 1100 Government Street in Penticton next to IGA Open Monday thru Friday from 6:00 am - 4:00 pm New this year is a great way to get your Edge on downtown. Open from Monday thru Friday you can stop in or take advantage of the drive thru window and enjoy the same incredible homemade soups, sandwiches, coffee drinks, and treats. With a convenient location, it is close to everything on the Government Street corridor, and the drive-thru breakfast and lunch is once again Fast, Fresh & Friendly!
For daily specials, fresh updates & current weather!
Best Mountain Views!
Open for the Season & Ready To Serve!
Sun - Thur 7am - 5pm Fri - Sat 7am - 9pm Holidays & Night Skiing
Specialty coffees, teas, amazing breakfasts, lunches with homemade soups, sandwiches & loads of treats. Try our “Take & Bake” Pizzas made fresh to order with your favourite toppings on a delicious stone baked crust. Simply throw it in your oven and dinner is ready in 12 minutes.
Located next to The Mountain Shop in the Apex Mountain Village
To order “Take & Bake” Pizza, or book a Group Function: Colin: 250.488.2400 Chad: 250.490.6585
Page 6
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
We still have room in some of our amazing freestyle programs! Jumps & Bumps by ronda barzilay Jumps and Bumps introduce skiers to the aspects of freestyle skiing in a non-competitive fun environment. Coaches introduce Welcome back to another great season! kids to the skills necessary to become an accomplished skier We are off to amazing start with the AFC athletes hitting the in all terrain, conditions and circumstances. Our goal is to get slopes this past Saturday with Head Coach Kenni Kuroda and participation up substantially in this program, because it acts as the feeder for all other aspects / programs offered by the club. our NEW Slopestyle Coach Stu Chapman. Some of our other great programs … Welcome Aboard Stu! • FREESTYLERZ (formerly Development)… A few wise words to kick off the season from • Junior Comp Stu ... Be mindful of your actions. Keeping • COMP Team aware of complacent actions and state of mind. Ex; doing a trick you’ve done hundreds CLUB PLUS - This ‘extra’ coaching and training opportunity of times before, you may forget to check is for the more serious athlete already registered in the Junior the jump or landing, thinking past the small Comp or COMP Team programs. To participate in these details and consequences. Be aware of additional days you will have to be a Club Plus member. what your body is telling you. There’s always • 3 extra days over Christmas going to be that little voice in your mind keeping you on track • 4 midweek days in January and safe. When hunger or fatigue sets in, your judgment can • 4 midweek days in February be clouded and possibly lead to injury. So everyone, please get • 4 midweek days in March well rested before training, and plan to eat well during training. • 3 extra days over Spring Break Having a bad breakfast or lunch will not give you the necessary energy we need in such a high level sport. Homemade energy Congratulations to the following AFC Athletes for being bars are awesome to make in bulk, freeze, and portion into named to the BC Development Mogul Team - Madison Parker, Mackenzie Schwinghamer, Kassidy & Max Todd. bars for each day. I’m really excited to be a part of such a talented group of Congratulations to our AFC Alumni athletes. All the best to everyone this season! BC Mogul Team 2013/14 - Mason Barzilay, Kyle Parker, Noah & Connor Spence Mark your calendars for another great season of events BC Slopestyle & Halfpipe Team 2013/14 - Riley Culver hosted by the Apex Freestyle Club Please plan on coming up to Apex to catch some of this great Canadian Sport Institute Mogul Team 2013/14 - Josh & Jordan Kober action and watch our AFC athletes perform. National Mogul Team - Andi Naude Canadian Selections - December 12th - 15th, 2013 Freestyle athletes from across Canada will battle it out in National Halfpipe Team - Matt Margetts front of National Team coaches and staff to earn a spot on the Cheer on Matt & Andi as they pursue a spot for the Sochi 2014 Canadian Team in the future! Olympics! Watch for both of these amazing athletes on TV!! Timber Tour - BC Series I ~ January 16th-19th, 2014 Volunteers are needed and appreciated for all of these events The first of four stops on the BC Tour from baking cookies, chopping courses, to building fences, NorAm Mogul Competition ~ February 13th -16th 2014 timing and more … All of our great events at Apex are so This is only stop in Western Canada for this prestigious successful thanks to everyone who pitches in to make them international event; athletes will compete in moguls and dual happen! If you have any questions, please feel free to pop moguls hoping to gain points that will propel them to the Marnie an email! Volunteer Co-ordination - Apex Freestyle National Team to compete in the World Cup Circuit. Club - marnietodd@gmail.com
APEX FREESTYLE NEWS
Senior Nationals ~ March 26th - 31st Apex Mountain Resort is hosting one final event for 2014 in welcoming the best that Canada has to offer at the senior national championships. The single mogul National Championship competition on Saturday and the head-to-head dual competition runs on Sunday.
All photos this page from Early Season Training at Apex. Can you name this masked AFC Alumni athlete to the right? All photos this page courtesy of Ronda Barzilay.
Media Mom ~ Ronda - rondabarzilay@shaw.ca 1.888.847.6632
apexfreetyle.com
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Carvers Corner with Jorgen Anderson, Head Coach & Program Director
Page 7
The Apex Ski Club invites you to join ...
Apex Carvers
A big thank you to everyone who came out to the Warrne Miller Movie Night on November 20th, as the proceeds from this event support our Apex Ski Club. One of our main fundraisers each year is hosting this annual movie debut in Penticton and what a fabulous way to kick off the season. Great to see all those smiling faces, while reconnecting for the season ahead.
This is the quality program that has made the Nancy Greene Ski League famous since 1968!
New Logo and New Club Jackets!
Saturdays starting January 4th
Yes, we have a new logo! And, likely more exciting for the kids is our New Club Jackets, featuring this new logo! We are a great team of young people from 5-16 years of age. It is so important to fuel team spirit, while keeping warm prior to race times. Fashion and function, need Brothers Issac and Marcus Athans, we say more? So to have a sporting the new club threads! new image, not only on our hill, but at other resorts while racing, will only help add positive energy and foster pride in our team. And, likely add a little speed to that finish line too.
For Ages 5 to 13
3 Day Christmas Camps ~ $99/camp Dec 21,22,23 & Dec 27,28,29 9:30 - 12 noon
Sundays starting January 5th 9:30 - 3pm
Children develop skills and confidence, through skiing all terrain types, games, skill drills, jumps and bumps, and skier-cross. The program is a very good value for money, as it is offered by the parent run Apex Ski Club. Register online now at
www.ApexSkiClub.com
Join the Apex Ski Club ‘Carver’ Program!
Now is the time to register your kids in our famous Carvers Program. All our coaches follow the successful Sport Chek Snow Stars Program, a skill development tool for young skiers ages 5-13 years of age. This 4 step program provides a pathway to the joy of skiing. This is the quality program that has made the Nancy Greene Ski League famous since 1968! The program is a very good value for money, as it is offered by the parent run Apex Ski Club. Children develop skills, and confidence, through skiing all terrain types, games, skill drills, jumps and bumps, and skier-cross. Our 11 week program runs on Sundays from 9:30am - 3pm and starts on January 5th. We also offer an additional half day program on Saturdays from 9:30am - 12noon. You can sign up for both Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, check out our website at www.apexskiclub.com. Our Annual 3 Day Christmas Camps are coming soon! They will be held on December 21, 22, 23 and December 27,28,29. Each camp runs 9:30am - 3pm, with an hour for lunch to recharge. Its great value, lots of fun, an opportunity to meet new friends for the ski season, and a way to develop skills on the hill. Only $99 per camp. Register on line at www. apexskiclub.com.
Warm up exercises.
Learning to wax skis.
Apex Carvers ready to race!
Coach Brian drilling in gates for training.
See you at the Club Cabin! APEX SKI CLUB - WE AIM 2 WIN
Building Skills & Self Esteem to Last a Lifetime www.apexskiclub.com
Apex’s Meg Cumming - 2012 & 2013 Provincial GS Champion
Page 8
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
with Andi Naude What a great start to a new season! There is tons of snow up at Apex! The National Freestyle Ski Team has been training on the Okanagan Run since the 13th of November. The World Cup team, including myself, will be travelling across the world in the next few days to Ruka, Finland for the first World Cup of the season. Many of us are competing to qualify for the few Apex’s Andi Naude, spots in the Sochi Olympics. The rest of 2013 FIS World Cup the team will be at Apex for the Canadian Rookie of the Year! Selections Competition held on December 14th and 15th. This should be a great show, so make sure to come out and watch it! We are all really pumped for this Olympic year. We have put in countless hours of training over the summer months. We are so thankful to all of our supporters, including Apex Mountain and the Apex Freestyle Ski Club.
The Canadian National Mogul Team have been enjoying some early season training at Apex Mountain Resort this past month. From Left to Right: Clare Lambert, Myriam Leclerc, Andi Naude, Christel Hamel, Alex-Anne Gagnon, and Kiera Leung. Photo courtesy of Steve Omischl. Follow the Canadian National Freestyle Ski Team this season at www.freestyleski.com, where you can get to know the team members through their bios and follow their results. You can follow Andi Naude this season right here in Apex Matters, plus through her new website at www.andinaude.com. Andi is also on Twitter @andi_naude.
Share Your True Outdoor Adventure Story
We are giving away some shwag each issue in celebration of our Great Canadian Winter! Here is a fun way to win ... Submit your “True Outdoor Canadian Winter Adventure Story” and you could win a $50 Gift Certificate from True Outdoors. The winning entries will have their stories published in Apex Matters this season. Share your love and passion for our Canadian winters and tell us why you deserve a $50 Gift Certificate to gear up for your next journey into our Canadian winter wonderland. Don’t delay and enter to win today! (Please limit your entry to 500 words of copy or less. Photos
to accompany your story are welcome too. Some discretion on content inclusion may be involved. Email to apexmatters@telus.net. Can't type? No time? Call 250-490-6951.)
Snowshoeing
My National Team’s Journey to Sochi
Tours and Courses
2 hour Half/Full Day Moonlight & Mountain Top Fire Roasted Dinner & Fireside Fondue Winter Survival Youth Programs
Rentals
1 Hour - $10 Half Day - $15 Full Day - $25 Children at all times - $8
For more information: 250 490 6084 www.hoodooadventures.ca team@hoodooadventures.ca
Be Active Every Day
By Myleen Mallach “Be Active Every Day” is an initiative from the BC Medical Association to help kids become more active and make healthy choices. In partnership with their local elementary school, doctors across BC coordinated a monthlong challenge to kids: Be active 60 minutes every day during October 2013. Olympic half-pipe snowboarder, Mercedes Nicoll, and Canadian National Team mogul skier, Andi Naude, are passionate supporters of daily exercise and participated along side kids in the Be Active Every Day challenge. Videos of Andi & Mercedes encourage kids to “Be Active Every Day!” Mercedes and Andi encouraging participation were posted on the BCMA YouTube Channel every week, along with weekly blogs also posted online. Over 4,000 kids in 34 schools across BC participated in Be Active Every Day, including Okanagan Falls Elementary School where my two kids attend. All the kids received a recording chart to keep track of their activities, which included encouraging words and graphics to keep the kids motivated. My kids recognized Andi’s name and cartoon character right away. They were thrilled to be apart of this fun challenge, let alone a chance to win some great prizes in the essay and photo contests. Keep your eye open for this initiative again next year and remember to “Be Active Every Day”!
Penticton ~ Kelowna ~ Vernon ~ Kamloops
www.trueoutdoors.ca
Open Mon-Sat 10-6 & Sun 11-5
#106 - 290 Riverside Drive, Penticton
1.778.476.6111
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Top 5 - Top 5’s This Winter
Page 9
#3 Top 5 Local Trails to Hit Up
1. 1. The Trout Creek Stroll, following Trout Creek between the Hwy.97 foot-underpass and Okanagan Lake, via Sun Oka Beach Prov. Park - Easy It’s a tough time of year, feeling like you are stuck inside 2. 2. Near the Astrophysical Observatory, entering from the with limited options. I know that I spent last weekend parking lot off Willowbrook Rd., exploring sections of the scouring local publications for something fun to do with my White Lake Loop trail - Easy family, I’d had about enough of Mr. Potato Head and really 3. Peach Cliff, east of Okanagan Falls – Moderate needed a “time passer” or something to get excited about. 3. 4. 'Mice', entering from the northwest face, via the silver gate So to help you fill your winter season I have come up with on the Naramata side. Sunny with great views, stay below my Top 5 Top 5’s to help make the cold season more Whitetail - Moderate exciting for you and your family! 4. 5. Mt.Keogan, The area generally receives little snow, so is open much of the year - Moderate #1 Top 5 Winter Toys Thank you to Andrew Drouin for the recommendations! 1. 1. Snow Paws - Are those scary looking footprints in your yard from a monster? Well, they're from your little monster – Lightweight strap on Snow Paws perfect for fun treks through the backyard or park on snow days. 2. 2. Pelican Blast Snowboard – Snowboard with a scooter handle that tucks away when you don’t need it 3. 3. The Sonic Sledding Saucer – need I say more? 4. 4. Snow Castle Makers – Pack the moulds with snow to #4 Top 5 Local Events for the Parents create building blocks for the perfect igloo or snow fort.1. 1. Light up the Vines, Nov. 30-Dec. 1, Stop in at the Bottle 5. 5. Arctic Force Snowball Blaster - The Wham-O Snowball Neck Drive Wineries for complimentary wine tasting, snacks, Blaster not only looks menacing during the fight, but mulled wine, special holiday promotions, and of course vines it makes snowballs and launches them up to 80 feet. Kids lit up! just remove the built-in snowball press, fill it with snow 2. 2. Barney Bentall at the Dream Cafe, Dec. 6, Two platinum and reattach. The launcher and four gold CD's, a Juno award and a string of top ten 6. will compress the powder singles to his credit. A night of music not to be missed! 7. into three perfect, ready3. 3. Bare Naked Ladies at the SOEC, Jan. 19, You don’t need a 8. to launch balls, providing million dollars, they’re right here in the Pen! snow fort denizens with 4. 4. Kenny Rogers at the SOEC, Feb. 27th, Come on – its The 9. additional protection Freak’n Gambler... he’s here!! from invaders and a 5. 5. Vertical and Vintages ridiculous amount 6. March at Apex Mountain Resort of fun. 7. Naramata Bench Winery Assoc.
By Lyndie Hill – Hoodoo Adventure Company
8. hit the slopes at Apex and host 9. a weekend of wine drinking you 1. Summerland Christmas Express, Nov. 30-Dec.1 are not soon to forget! Voluminous train steam, song and Santa bring the festive season alive as you glide through the hills overlooking twinkling lights and enjoying hot cocoa. #5 Top 5 To Do’s w/ a Loved One or Friend 2. Festival of the Lights, Nov. 29 Summerland Waterfront 1. 1. Snowshoe Wine Tour with Hoodoo Adventure Company Resort. Live Entertainment, Fireworks, Live Ice Carving, at Apex Mountain Resort Santa's Workshop and a Glow Party! 2. 2. Visit the Nickel Plate Nordic Center and take a Cross 3. Santa Claus Parade, Dec. 7th, Main St, Penticton Country Ski Lesson 4. Kids Winter Fun Program, Jan. 2, 3. 3. Take a chair lift to the of a mountain - even if you are Penticton Community Center not a skier – they will let you do this with a 1 ride pass! & Hoodoo Adventures bring your Have a hot chocolate at the top and either snowshoe or kiddies snowshoeing, sledding, take the chair back down. fort building and more! 4. 4. First Day of Winter Snowshoe and Fire Roasted Dinner, 5. Kids Tubing Night at Apex, Dec. 21 Hoodoo Adventures and Penticton Community Jan 25th pick up at the Penticton Center Community Center 5. 5. Learn to Eskimo Roll a Kayak, Feb. 16 and March 2 at
#2 Top 5 Events for the Kids 1.
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
the Penticton Community Pool with Hoodoo Adventures.
Page 10
ApexMatters.com This is where I needed help and fast. I had to somehow raise $20,000 to help cover the costs of attending these training camps and traveling to the contests I need to be at in order to be able to qualify for the Olympics. If I had known this change in funding was coming after two years of receiving it, I could have planned ahead and budgeted accordingly. But, here I am just a few months before my biggest competition of my life with this huge financial challenge. 2013/2014 Budget - Canadian Halfpipe Ski Team Team Fees - $2,500.00 Training Camps: (Includes flights, accommodation, and lift access) • Mammoth, California - $5,112.00 • New Zealand - $5,536.00 • Copper, Colorado - $2,406.00 Olympic Qualifying Events: • December 12-22: Dew Tour in Breckenridge, Colorado & World Cup in Copper, Colorado - $606.00 • January 3-4: World Cup in Calgary, Alberta - $761.00 • January 10-11: World Cup in Northstar, California - $419.00 • January 23-26: X Games in Aspen, Colorado - $703.00
December 1-15, 2013
My Olympic Pipe Dream Reality
with Matt Margetts My name is Matt Margetts, and I was born on January 15, 1988 in Victoria, BC. When I was five years old my family and I moved to Penticton. The first winter my parents asked me if I wanted to play hockey or try skiing, and I chose skiing, because my parents both enjoyed it, I absolutely loved it, and it wasn’t too expensive for my family. I grew up skiing at Apex and when I was 13 years old I joined the Apex Freestyle Team and started competing in moguls, big air, and slopestyle contests. My peers used to call me “huck-splat”, because I would try anything and any trick, just to catch-up. I started to get better and began doing well in contests, including a handful of podium finishes at local slopestyle events, along with 3rd place at Junior Nationals in Big Air. When I was 16, I competed in my first international competition at the 2005 US Open in Vail, Colorado. During my first run in qualifiers, I fell and blew my right knee. When I got my MRI I found out I had fully torn my ACL, partially torn my MCL, LCL, Medial Meniscus and Lateral Meniscus. I wanted to get surgery as soon as possible by the best Orthopedic Sports Surgeon in Western Canada, so I wrote a letter to the surgeon, Dr. J.P. McConkey, that I wanted to reconstruct my knee. I told him that I was training for the Olympics, even though slopestyle or halfpipe had yet to be considered as an Olympic event, but he believed in me and my story, and squeezed me in two weeks after my MRI. After six months of rehab, I was back on my skis. After a few years of filming with multiple production companies and competing in international slopestyle, big air, and halfpipe contests, one of my dreams came true when I received an invite to the 2009 Winter X Games for Superpipe. That season the “Unofficial Canadian Halfpipe Team” asked me if I wanted to be a part of their team. I obviously wanted to accept the invitation, but I couldn’t afford to pay for the team fees for coaching, so my family came together and helped raise the money so I could join the team. In 2011, I was accepted onto the Official Canadian National Halfpipe Ski Team. It was such a relief to receive some funding; not having to pay for coaching, team fees, or travel, flights, and accommodation to some contests. The most beneficial thing the team offered was funded training camps, with access to perfect halfpipes, air bags and trampolines along with the most amazing facilities, gyms, trainers, workout routines, fitness testing, physiotherapists, massage therapists, sports psychologists, nutritionists, etc. I have been on the Canadian National Halfpipe Ski Team for two years now, training and competing all over the world to reach my ultimate goal of qualifying for the 2014 Winter Olympic Games and to bring a medal home for my country. I am currently ranked 2nd in Canada and 11th in the world on the Association of Freeskiing Professionals World Tour (www. afpworldtour.com ). I am currently funded through the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association, but this past June our funding was restructured and a lot of the benefits that I previously received as a member of a National Team are no longer offered, including flights, accommodations and training camps.
(Flights only. Does not include accommodation, registration fees, lift access, etc.)
Total = $20,000.00 So, I turned to social media to hopefully fund my way to Sochi. I created a campaign with “Pursu.it”, which is a volunteer-run non-profit organization offering a website platform devoted to crowd-sourced funding for Canadian athletes. With each donation through Pursu.it, I was able to offer ‘give-backs’ directly to that person (with thanks to my friends and supporting brands with the goods and services I could pass along). Then Global News featured my story, along with CBC, and various other media. In just 9 days, I had actually met my $20,000 goal! It was completely unreal. I never expected to have so much support and from so many people all around the world! I am so thankful beyond words that I can now focus 100% on my skiing, training, and competing, without the burden and stress of figuring out how to cover these costs. Thank you to everyone that donated, gave words of encouragement, and simply are supporting me in my pursuit of this Olympic dream. I want to qualify for the Olympics. I want to do the best that I can in Sochi. My ultimate goal is to bring a medal home to Canada. I look forward to sharing “My Olympic Pipe Dream Reality” this season. Until next time, I have a fun contest you can enter at www.SBCSkier.com/win, called “Does your gear suck?” If so, you can win a full setup, including Völkl skis, Orage jacket and pants, goggles, sunglasses and a helmet from Smith. Check out the link above for the easy photo entry info. This time, I get to be the judge! Stay tuned at www.mattmargetts.com.
Matt Margetts, local Olympic hopeful, on cover of SBC Skier Magazine in 2012. Visit www.SBCSkier.com/win and enter Matt’s new contest for a full setup.
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013 On Mo u Cabin, ntain Town H Condo & ome R entals Visit o ur we
Page 11
What are you wearing under there?
with the Apex Ski Shop Staff If a new ski suit is not in the cards for you this year, how about b variou s amm site for enities. updating your long underwear? Long underwear, or what is often called base layers, is the first layer which is worn directly Ski FREE / Stay FREE: 3 nights & 3 days of skiing or snowboarding, on your skin. This layer being the first is also your first layer of and receive the 4th night & 4th day of skiing or snowboarding FREE! defense to ward off cold weather or keep you sweat free during *New Reservations: Must state “Apex Matters” at time of booking. Booking and date conditions apply. activity. There are different types of long underwear, different www.stayatapex.com Toll Free 1.866.273.9737 weights available, different materials they can be made out of. Long underwear is meant to fit snug, Featured Vacation Home ~ Loor-U-Inn tightly next to the skin, and should have some stretch to it for comfort. Skiing with Apex Accommodations long underwear should wick away sweat and moisture keeping you dry all day. Remember to stay away from cotton, it will absorb the moisture and will stretch and lose shape. Loor-U-Inn is a gorgeous log home located in a private setting. We sell Bula, Under Armour, The North Face and Spyder. Come This 3 level luxury home offers spectacular mountain views in and see us for your update! Not that your long underwear and high end furnishings throughout. The living room features has holes it in or anything. a vaulted ceiling, natural wood burning fireplace, satellite television and DVD player. In addition, the den has another Over 50 years in Business! television, pool table and foose ball table. Relax in the private hot tub off the back deck after a day on the slopes. Jeff & Jennifer Van Os Loor-U-Inn has 6 bedrooms plus a loft, 2.5 bathrooms, and offers an overnight stay to a maximum of 15 guests. You can 250-492-8315 also enjoy the ease of booking online. The price is based on 8 apexskishop@yahoo.ca people. Kids 7 and under stay for free! Any additional people (over 7 years of age) are subject to $20/person/night. 1055 Westminster Ave. W. For more great accommodation options, rates and availability, please call us toll free 1-866-273-9737. Apex Accommodations Is it time to get a roof rack? is Apex Mountain Resort’s primary property and rental By Myleen Mallach accommodation provider. From slopeside chalet’s to private townhouses or condos, Apex Accommodations has a place for How do you pack for a day of snow adventures? Do you load everyone this winter season. Visit www.stayatapex.com today! your gear haphazardly into your trunk or back seat and hope for the best? But, hold on ... now you have a spouse, dog and child! Now you make a list, check it twice, and ensure you don't miss a myriad of options you 'might' just need in case of an emergency, Good Clean Fun For Everyone! especially with your child on the go. Or, perhaps, you are simply running out of room in your SUV. As you know, the outdoors The Perfect Customer are even better when shared with others. Plus, it is cool to car pool! Regardless, it's time to get your gear out of the vehicle A man sent an email to a small hotel in the Midwest he planned and make room for friends, family and more fun. to visit on his vacation. We all value our belongings, space and leisure time. I suggest He wrote, “I would very much like to bring my dog with me. He that you go and see Jason at All Hitches in Penticton. He will let is well groomed and very well behaved. Would you be willing you know what kind of Yakima products fits your lifestyle and to permit me to keep him in my room with me at night?” vehicle. You'll be surprised how quick and easy a solution is. An immediate reply came from the hotel owner, who said, “I’ve been operating this hotel for many years. In all that time, I’ve never had a dog steal towels, bedclothes, silverware or pictures For Snowshoes & Thule Roof Racks ... off the walls. I’ve never had to evict a dog in the middle of the night for being drunk and disorderly, and I’ve never had a dog run out on a hotel bill.
Chair
Ride Chuckles
Yes, indeed, your dog is welcome at my hotel. And, if your dog will vouch for you, you’re welcome to stay here, too.” If you have a good clean joke to share in Apex Matters, email to apexmatters@telus.net.
Jason Wagner 250.490.8815 dochook@shaw.ca #102 - 2595 Skaha Lake Road in Penticton
Page 12
December 1-15, 2013
ApexMatters.com
Do You Know Where You Stand? By Terry Makos, Certified Pedorthist
We all talk about performance in skiing from novices all the way through to national team athletes. I would like to share some ski performance ideas that have worked for me in my profession as a Pedorthist for over 25 years. Let’s start with stance. In order to find your magical place that provides you balance to have Terry Makos, Owner of Footwoorks the quickest response, we need to first look at your available ‘Range of Motion’ in the critical joints involved with skiing. During your initial analysis session with me, I will start with a weight bearing assessment, then a non-weight bearing evaluation, followed by digital pressure mapping. First though, let’s break skiing down into two separate movements that in the end are combined to let us ski. There is the ‘fore and aft’ movement and the ‘side to side’ movement. For those interested in terminology, we call that “sagittal plane mechanics” and “frontal plane mechanics”. Back to your analysis session, I first check ‘Range of Motion’ in your ankle by having you just standing with bare feet and flexing forward to a point where there is some resistance from the structure in the back of your lower leg. This is called the “posterior group”. Then I’ll have you perform a side to side movement to see your available range. You will not believe the variability for person to person. Next, we will sit down unweighted and start with the hip to assess again the available range. This is huge. Remember a little thing we learned a long time ago, especially if you are an instructor, called pivoting? This is where it begins. I like this test because it is an area that we can improve. Remember, this is not flexibility as much as it is ‘Range of Motion’. The knee, well it really works in that ‘fore and aft’ or ‘sagittal plane’ we talked about earlier. The most important joint in my opinion is the ankle, so available range by flexing the foot up at the ankle in key. It’s incredible how many people I see that can’t get to 90 degrees. Evaluating side to side available range is also important. A foot moving inward toward mid-line is called inversion. A foot moving away from mid-line is called eversion. And, that my friends is the edging motion, which is where I see so many problems. The lack of range to allow us to get onto an edge early.
A digital pressure map helps determine an individual’s stance and performance needs.
The final piece of the puzzle for me is a static snapshot with digital pressure mapping. At this point, I have you put your ski boots on and we quantify what we have in a digital pressure image in order to come up with a solution to best suit your individual needs. Simply stated ‘fore and aft’ movements are usually inhibited if the boots are too stiff. The side to side lateral movements are inhibited with lack of range in the ankle. Boots too stiff? Soften them. Difficulties side to side, we make mechanical changes within the boots. Here is the schematic I like. Take a blank sheet of paper and make three circles, like the legs of a stool sitting in the floor. One circle represents ski boots that are warm and comfortable first. Then have the proper flex for easy movement fore and aft. The boots must also allow freedom of movement side to side or lateral mechanics to allow quick and effortless reactivity. The second circle is for skis that are the right category, length and tuned properly. The last circle is application of technique. This can be ski lessons from an instructor, or coaching if you are racing. In this area, I like to think in terms of ‘subjective’ or how it feels and ‘objective’ or how it looks. You see, if you remove one of the legs of the stool ... Well, enough said. Have a great season and “Know Where You Stand”! Terry Makos is a Certified Pedorthist located in Kaleden. He maintains his affiliation and is active with the following organizations; Pedorthic Association of Canada, College of Pedorthics of Canada, Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance, Canadian Ski Coaching Federation, Canadian Ski Guide Association, and Canadian Avalanche Association.
FOOTWORKS OKANAGAN VALLEY
Custom Ski Boot Fitting Recreational ~ Competitive ~ Custom Orthotics
TERRY MAKOS C PED (C) CERTIFIED PEDORTHIST CANADA ~ Over 25 years experience ~ www.footworksokanagan.ca ~ 250.490.5887
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Page 13
Preseason Conditioning By Courtney Parker, Practicing Kinesiologist (BHScKin) Getting ready for the winter season doesn’t just include digging your boots and bindings out of the crawl space. It also incorporates getting your body physically ready for the dynamic demands of Apex Mountain. Any preseason conditioning routine should work on five different aspects needed while skiing or snowboarding. These five domains are cardiovascular fitness, muscle strengthening, flexibility, balance/coordination and sport specific training. Cardiovascular fitness is an important foundation to make your skiing/snowboarding experience more enjoyable. Start by choosing an aerobic exercise and performing that exercise 3 times a week for 30-60 minutes. A few examples of aerobic exercises are jogging, bicycling or swimming. Aerobic exercises increase your body’s capacity to distribute and utilize oxygen. Secondly, incorporating some interval training into your cardio workouts once a week will help train your body to process lactic acid. This will help delay the onset of fatigue while skiing or boarding. Strength training is very important for navigating your way down the slopes in a variety of conditions. Strength is needed to propel yourself through deep powder, as well support the structures within and around your joints. The most obvious strength needed for skiing and boarding is leg strength. This can be developed with a variety of exercises including squats, lunges, hamstring curls and wall sits. Equally as important as leg strength is developing core strength. This includes strengthening the muscles of the abdomen such as obliques, low back, as well as your six-pack muscles. These muscles are important in controlling your movement down the hill to make your turns fluid and your transitions smooth. Along with general strengthening exercise, plyometrics are useful in improving reaction time and power. However, these explosive exercises should be performed with caution, as age and technique can be a factor for increased injuries. Consult with a trainer before initiating a plyometric workout. After warming up and working out your muscles, whether it’s a cardio workout or muscle strengthening, it’s important to spend 10-20 minutes stretching. Focus on stretching the large muscle groups like your quadriceps and hamstrings and hold stretches for 20-30 seconds each. This will improve your range of motion at each joint, allowing for freer movement. Having a strong and healthy body will only get you so far if you have trouble standing on your skis. Balance is another key component that should be incorporated into your preseason training. Equipment such as wobble boards and Bosu Balls are excellent tools to increase the speed of reaction when faced with stability challenges. This will likely decrease your number of falls and ideally prevent injuries. Finally, before getting on the slopes, you want to simulate parts of the activity you plan to do at Apex Mountain. For example, if you are a skier that loves moguls, then roll up a towel and place it on the floor. Practice jumping laterally to each side of the towel repeatedly, simulating the action associated with moguls. Not only do we want you to avoid unnecessary strains and sprains commonly related to winter sports, but also being more fit when starting your season will make your experience at Apex more enjoyable.
250.487.1455
250.493.7343
Page 14
December 1-15, 2013
ApexMatters.com
Be SMART about Goal Setting
By Rhonda Roth, Fitness Trainer and Active Aging Specialist at City Centre Health and Fitness Setting goals seems to be a straight forward endeavour, but we seem to have trouble sticking with them and succeeding. We all know what we want to achieve and start off with great intentions, motivation and enthusiasm. After a while we seem to lose our initial desire and they do not become a reality. A lot of goals may be health related and revolve around losing weight, getting in shape and exercising more. These are very important lifestyle changes, so why does it seem so hard to achieve them? When we set a goal to lose weight or get into shape we need to have a plan in place in order to succeed. We all have great intentions, but what are the steps to take in order to make it actually happen? How can we succeed in making that lifelong commitment to health and wellness? The first step is to be SMART about goal setting. SMART is an acronym which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely. Behavioral research has shown that effective goal setting must have certain qualities in order to be effective. The SMART checklist is a tool that will help with goal setting and most importantly, achieving positive outcomes in your life. Specific ~ A specific goal has a much greater chance of being accomplished than a general goal. Clearly define the outcome you want. EXAMPLE: A general goal would be, “Get in shape.” But a specific goal would be “Join a fitness center and workout 3 days a week”. Measurable ~ Establish concrete criteria for measuring progress toward the attainment of each goal you set. Use actual numbers, target dates or specific events to indicate when you have achieved your goal. Reward your success. When you measure your progress, you stay on track and experience the exhilaration of achievement that spurs you on to continued effort required to reach your goal. Achievable ~ Goals should challenge you, but you should still be able to attain them with effort and commitment. Include a plan of action on how you achieve them. Seek assistance from professionals if you need to. When you identify goals that are most important to you, you begin to figure out ways you can make them come true and you develop the attitudes, abilities, and skills to reach them. Realistic ~ To be realistic, a goal must represent an objective toward which you are both willing and able to work toward. Set goals that are significant and be sure you have the ability to make them happen. Set both long term and short term goals in order to keep motivated. Timely ~ Goals need to have a time frame in order to succeed. This will keep you on track and prevent you from simply putting a goal off indefinitely. It should have a sense of urgency and should be a high priority in your life. Using the SMART checklist will help you succeed in making your goals a reality. There are many programs that can help you to remain on track, keep you accountable, motivated and enthusiastic. Get SMART about goal setting in order to make a lifelong commitment to your health and wellness. City Centre Fitness Trainers are ready to help you be SMART with your personal goal setting. Call 250-487-1481 & get started!
January is Hockey Month at Apex
ApexHockey.com presents Traditional Outdoor Hockey since 1999. Thanks to the organizational skills and vision of Marc Tougas, local hockey player and Penticton Fire Fighter. Marc has been welcoming hockey players to Apex for the last 15 years. "Bring the whole family or bring one, its' fun for all. Boarding, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, skating, hockey and tubing are just many of the outdoor activities available. Apex Village offers a variety of nite life hang outs, and not to mention the great food! So, stay warm, bring your skates and skis, and we'll see you up there", says Marc on his website. The Apex Mountain Outdoor Hockey Tournament schedule has be confirmed for January 2014. The 15th Annual Apex Mountain Shootout is set for January 9th - 12th. The 11th Annual BC Firefighters Tournament at Apex Mountain will take place from January 23rd - 26th. The 8th Annual Apex Mountain Shotgun tournament will be held from January 30th - February 2nd. In total there are 24 women’s teams and 34 men’s teams from all over BC, Washington and Oregon. 15 of the 58 teams are new to these tournament and will be experiencing Apex Mountain Resort for the first time. Some of the other 58 teams are returning after some time away. It will be great to have some of these teams back. We are hoping for great powder weather, so that these participants can enjoy the slopes. For complete tournament information, visit www.apexhockey.com. Please Note: The outdoor full NHL sized hockey rink will be closed to the public during the dates listed above. However, you can still enjoy some winter outdoor skating on the 1 km Adventure Skating Loop open daily from 10am - 11pm.
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
How To Build The Perfect Fireplace Fire
Brought to you by Accent Living & Leisure “Ooo, there’s a fireplace!” That’s usually the first comment made by anyone who walks into a room with a fireplace. The idea of a cozy, warm fire on a cold winter’s night holds a lot of appeal. The question then becomes, can you get your fire started? Sure, you can drop in one of those prefab logs that will instantly go to blazes. The problem with these “logs” is that they leave a creosote build-up in your chimney (which is bad) and they smell like burning candle wax. Forget the shortcuts. Here then is the only guide you’ll ever need to build the perfect fireplace fire every time. Spoiler Alert: you’ll be turning this fire upside down! Step 1 - Clean Your Chimney ~ If this is the first fire of the season then you want to make sure you’ve cleaned out the chimney before striking a match. There’s no telling what kind of bird’s nests, leaves and other debris could have gathered over the summer. Best to have it cleared by a professional sweep. Step 2 - Open Your Damper ~ Every fireplace has a damper. This keeps the cold air out. However, if the damper is closed when your start your fire then it will also keep the smoke in. It’s a rookie mistake. Step 3 - Prime Your Flue ~ This is primarily for chimneys built on home exteriors, but it’s a step even veteran firestarters might not know. When the temperature drops, those chimneys can get downright frigid. That chilly air flows into your home when the damper is opened. To reverse the effect, light a rolled up newspaper and hold it up into the damper. You’ll know you’ve warmed up the chimney when the draft starts flowing up instead of down. What you’ve got then is a primed flue. Step 4 - Keep Your Ash Bed ~ Yes, you should clean out your fireplace but leave behind a 1 to 2 inch ash bed for proper insulation. If you’re starting clean, don’t worry. You can either make a go without the ash for the first fire or “borrow” some ash from your BBQ. Step 5 - Build Your Upside Down Log Pile ~ You read that right: upside down. The traditional method of building a fireplace fire is to place kindling at the bottom, light it up and then pile heavy logs on top. Forget that. Instead, place your heavy logs in the bottom of your fireplace. Push them tight together without any space. Add a layer of smaller logs on top running in the opposite direction. On top of that place your kindling. This can be the same kind of twigs, paper or sawdust. Light that. What happens next is those embers will drift down to the other logs and set them ablaze. This is why you want to keep everything tightly packed. You have to be a little patient with this method as it might take up to 20 minutes to get the fire going. Once it does start, you won’t have to touch it for hours.
Page 15
Accent Living & Leisure Wood Stoves ~ Regency / Quadra-Fire / Jotul / Napoleon Gas Stoves ~ Valor / Regency / Enviro Christmas Ideas ~ Mitts / Fire Tools / Fire Starter Mr. Heater
~ Full Range of Products for Every Outdoor Enthusiast and Pet Owner Until Dec 25th
Save up to $590 on Regency Wood Stoves with Free fan & 10% discounts on units! From small items to big items ...
Warm up to BIG SAVINGS this Christmas!
Our service will not be beat! 1295 Fairview Road, Penticton
250.770.2903
Warm Up to Big Savings!
with Accent Living & Leisure Specialists No more drafty fireplaces! Save money by turning down your furnace and zone heating with a new high effeciency gas insert. Enjoy consistent, controllable heat even during power outages. Add value and efficiency to your home with a gas insert. We have numerous products in store to ensure that your warmth this winter isn’t compromised. You can choose from Valor, Regency, Enviro or Napoleon. Did you know that with the purchase of a gas fireplace, you can easily qualify for a $300 Fortis rebate? This is because a new gas fireplace is so much more energy efficient. Natural gas is the cleanest fireplace that you can use. It has the lowest particulate levels and lowest levels of greenhouse gases compared to all other fossil fuels. So, save money because your fireplace is more effecient and get money back with a Fortis rebate. We will even file the paperwork for you! With Regency you can add a classically styled wood stove in small, medium or large sizes that will heat your favourite living spaces with renewable, clean burning and efficient heat. Save money on your heating bill … and get back to basics with a beautiful Regency wood stove. There is nothing like a wood fire! All Regency wood stoves are EPA certified. Right now you can save up to $590 on Regency Wood Stoves. Your purchase even comes with a Free fan! Enjoy 10% discounts on Regency units in stock. Come by for a view of If you think you may need an upgrade to a new airtight stove, what can warm up your home with big savings this Christmas. come see us at Accent Living & Leisure. We carry a number of Open 9-5 Monday-Friday and 10-4 Saturday // 250.770.2903 great models to choose from, along with various accessories. 1295 Fairview Road in Penticton // accentliving@shawbiz.ca
Page 16
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Linda Larson, MLA
~ Boundary-Similkameen
Open House 3:00 - 6:00 pm Friday, December 20th
6369 Main Street, Box 998, Oliver, BC V0H 1T0 Tel: 250.498.5122 Toll-free: 1.855.498.5122 “Your Voice in Victoria!” Linda.Larson.MLA@leg.bc.ca
Located at Skaha Lake Marina
Monthly Update From MLA Larson
By Linda Larson, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen I would like to talk this month on a subject that concerns everyone - all families and government - elder abuse. Since 2002, the Federal-Provincial and Territorial seniors forum has led a number of initiatives to raise awareness of elder abuse, particularly the financial abuse of seniors. At this year’s meeting in Yellowknife, a print and online brochure was approved to help seniors make the right choices when setting up a power of attorney or joint bank account with another person. When we hear the word “abuse,” our first thoughts may be of physical abuse. Most reports of abuse suffered by seniors relate to financial abuse, and it is often perpetrated by a family member or a trusted person. Our financial institutions are often aware that accounts of aging customers show unusual activity, but in many circumstances they are not empowered to intervene. Exploring partnerships with the financial services sector to distribute information to their clients, and educating employees, neighbours, friends and families will be crucial to identifying and preventing the financial exploitation of seniors. The federal government has produced a series of very informative television ads that you might have seen. There are resources regarding financial abuse available on www. SeniorsBC.ca. In BC, work is underway to implement the provincial elder abuse prevention strategy launched in March 2013. A common theme that emerged from consultations to inform the development of the strategy was the need for collaboration and coordinated action across all sectors, prioritizing the voices of seniors and those who care for them. We hope that the strategy will facilitate opportunities for all members of society to play their part to reduce elder abuse. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please take a moment during this busy time of year to help someone less fortunate. Looking for something?
700 Grizzly
FX Nitro MTX
1300 Stryker
Sales Service Parts Accessories Fuel Moorage Waterskis Boat & PWC Rentals Snowmobiles ATVs Motorcycles
250-492-8300
ON E L A S HUGE AR! E G R E WINT inter Stock from
013 W at Apex p o 2012/2 h S untain The Mo % OFF 0 5 0 3 s All Item -like’ savings wap Enjoy ‘s s all gone! until it
ApexMatters.com
Your ad space here.
SALES & SERVICE Your Complete Bike Store The South Okanagan’s Family Bike Shop Mountain, Triathlon & Road Bike Specialists
“For the names you know & the service you trust!” www.MomentsUnderFrame.com
bikebarn.ca
300 W. Westminster Ave.
250-492-4140
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
FROM THE DIRECTOR
Page 17
CLASSIC/SKATE/BACKCOUNTRY SKIS • SNOWSHOES
“Snows up - boards down, It’s time to ride!” Well snow lovers - it’s that time of year again. Whether you’re a skier, a boarder or a slider there’s fresh snow and fun awaiting on the slopes at Apex. As I write, there is already more than two feet of new snow on “the hill” with lots more to come. As your elected local representative Tom Siddon for Area ‘D’ in the Regional District of Director of Okanagan-Similkameen, I am pleased RDOS Area ‘D’ to welcome you back for another season of fine winter sports at Apex. Over the past thirty years, my wife Pat and I, together with our growing children (and more recently our grandchildren) have enjoyed many memorable experiences on the slopes at Apex. In recent months I’ve had the privilege to work with the property owners at Apex (APOA), the resort management, and RDOS staff on several issues of significance for the future of the resort. Apex Circle ~ The new water service to the some 34 properties known as the Apex Circle has now been completed at a cost of $250,000. Following the establishment of a new service area and adoption of a debt servicing bylaw in early October, the benefitting property owners were recently advised of their capital cost share of $7,350 and a financing option for repayment over the next 20 years. I trust these residents are pleased to now have a new and reliable source of potable water to their properties. Logging at Apex ~ Since early April I have been working with the APOA Forestry Committee, other Board Directors, our MLA’s, representatives of the Penticton Indian Band and Gorman Brothers Logging in an effort to halt all further clear-cut logging in the vicinity of the Apex Resort. That is, at least until a workable joint-stakeholder solution has been discussed and agreed to. I’m happy to report that, largely through the efforts of the APOA Forestry Committee, its chair Jeff Brown and numerous letters of concern from hikers, cross-country skiers, and Apex property owners, there has been no additional logging in the vicinity or Apex this year. The suspension of logging activity, now subject to full consultation with all stakeholder interests, would not have been possible without the direct intervention of Forests Minister, the Hon. Steve Thompson and our two MLA’s, Linda Larson and Dan Ashton. Our thanks to Minister Thompson and all others who made this possible! This space could be yours! Either go heli skiing or book an ad.
214 Main Street, Penticton 250-490-3334 www.peachcityrunners.com
SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS New Waste Transfer Station ~ Earlier this year I was able to visit the resort’s only waste handling site, which is immediately East of the village. I witnessed an overflowing compactor bin surrounded by piles of garbage, old furniture, and other cast-offs, dumped there by a few inconsiderate residents and visitors to the mountain. Obviously what goes under the snow in winter does not disappear forever, and garbage dumped along the creek’s edge can only endanger Keremeos Creek and the downstream watershed. After several years of discussion, a mandatory waste-management facility has now become an absolute imperative at the resort. Our RDOS waste management coordinator, Cameron Baughen is now discussing with others an alternate fenced site below the old Gunbarrel Saloon, near the works yard. This new transfer station will likely be operated by Apex Mountain Resort, and all residents will be expected to use it. Vacation Property Rentals ~ After much discussion about a proposed zoning amendment which would have allowed vacation rentals anywhere at Apex, and two public hearings where objections were expressed, RDOS staff are now considering further changes to the proposed zoning change. This would result in permanent “vacation rentals” being allowed in the existing Mixed Use Apex Alpine (RMU) zone. Vacation rentals could be allowed elsewhere in the residential areas at Apex, but these would be subject to a site-specific Temporary Use Permit. Such TUP’s are being required throughout the regional district to limit and regulate the operation of commercial vacation rentals in residentially-zoned neighborhoods. Additional consultations will be held with Apex property owners, before another Public Hearing early in the New Year. Finally ~ I’d like to report that RDOS receives numerous complaints about unauthorized construction projects and other bylaw infractions in the Apex community. We cannot allow these complaints to be disregarded. While property development is always more challenging on the side of a mountain, it’s important to respect the rights of your neighbours and the regulations which are there to protect every homeowner’s property values! Well that’s it from me for this issue. Have fun on the slopes and a great ski season at Apex. Keep your tips up and your eyes open! Merry Christmas to all!
ApexMatters.com
Tom Siddon, RDOS Director Area ‘D’ tsiddon@rdos.bc.ca // 250-809-2548 Penticton Office - 250-490-4215 // www.rdos.bc.ca
Page 18
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Apex Fire Brigade Update with Mike Polywkan, Apex Fire Brigade Chief We have continued to work hard to ensure that Apex has a reasonable level of fire protection. Three members (Rick Valenti, Andy Cumming, and I) of the AFBS attended the Volunteer Firefighter’s Spring Training Seminar this year in Salmon Arm. We received top notch training, and had a lot of fun doing it. The members who go bring back the newly acquired knowledge to share with the rest of the department. Salmon Arm held a world class event. The food was excellent the entertainment had us falling out of our seats laughing and their friendly hospitality made everyone feel at home. We took seminars that explained about disasters dealing with transport of dangerous goods and how to deal with situations that seem overwhelming. We learned some simple effective ways to contain spills to minimize environmental damage. We learned hard core firefighting skills like how to deal with basement fires and what is required of us when we have a firefighter in a “mayday” situation. We also got some rescue training and vehicle Chief Mike on the ropes during training. extraction experience.
24 Hour Emergency Service Water & Fire Damage Restoration Wind Damage Odour Control
Insurance Work Handled Promptly Asbestos/Mold Remediation
Left - Rick, Andy & Mike at Spring Training. Right - Andy & Rick taking in a seminar.
This was Andy’s first time to a spring seminar training session and I told him that the number of things that a volunteer firefighter is expected to know can be overwhelming. I told him to take in as much as possible, have a great time, and that all of the other firefighters are there to help, because that is what we do. I could tell from the great time that Andy had that he heeded my advice. I remember feeling overwhelmed at my first spring seminar. I have now been to four of them and I can’t wait until the next one. The best thing about these seminars is that they are very inexpensive and I feel comfortable that we are being responsible to our community by getting such a high level of training and experience for what can be considered to be a ridiculously low price. If you would like to share some of these experiences with us, join the Apex Fire Brigade. The members that we have are all proud of what we have accomplished over the years and also have some fun at our practices, meetings, and social events. We don’t have a lot of equipment and, therefore, don’t require the high level of expertise that other departments do. You would not believe the diversity and age spread of the firefighters present at the spring seminar. So if you always dreamed of being a fireman when you were a little boy or girl, it’s not too late ... Now is your chance! You can also join us on Facebook, by searching “Apex Fire Brigade Society”. Safety Tip: Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. You will need to replace your detectors if they are more than ten years old. All detectors, even the ones that are hard wired to your home, get old and cease to function properly. Carbon monoxide detectors are only required if you are using any gas appliances. Have a safe ski season!
Diesel’s Snow Removal Looking forward to our 4th season!
Carpet Repair Bonded Insured WCB
We handle residential and commercial disasters with expertise and exceptional customer service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
250.493.6623
1.800.46.FLOOD
www.myABK.com
Serving APEX Mountain and Area for over 24 years!
New 3rd Machine
2 High Capacity Snow Blowers
Competitive Pricing
John (Diesel) Davis ~ 250.490.7952 johndaviscontracting@gmail.com
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Season Opener Social Saturday, December 14th 4-6 pm ~ Rock Oven Grill Located in Apex Mountain Inn
** SPECIAL PRESENTATION ** Forestry Committee Update Apex Resort Update
Come socialize with fellow property owners. Appetizers provided. Try out the new menu with $5 off entrées!
Not yet an APOA member? No Problem. Membership sign-up at the door. Only $30/yr. www.ApexPropertyOwners.com
Apex Property Owners Association Report from the APOA Forestry Committee
with Jeff Brown APOA’s Forestry Advisory Committee was created by the Board in response to existing and planned forest harvesting in areas next to Apex Village and Nickel Plate Nordic Centre. After several meetings last winter and spring with local forest companies, the Committee hosted a public information forum in Penticton on June 10th. Many APOA members and recreation enthusiasts then wrote to the provincial government asking for a review of harvesting plans. In July, the forest ministry hosted a full-day meeting between the Ministry, the local forestry companies, and the APOA Forestry Committee. The outcome was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU reaffirmed the Land and Resource Management Plan (Okanagan Shuswap LRMP) as a key document directing forestry around Apex. This is important to recreation users, because the LRMP designates tourism (scenic) and recreation zones, and directs special logging practices in them. The MOU also confirmed that Sn’pink’tn Forestry will review their harvesting plans for Green Mountain. The original plan was to almost double the size of the existing cut-block last summer. As of this writing, Sn’pink’tn has not yet provided APOA with updated information on this harvesting plan. However, no additional harvesting on Green Mountain was done this summer. The MOU confirms that local stakeholder review is essential before the Ministry approves future cut-blocks in the designated Apex Intensive Recreation Area. The APOA has provided substantial feedback on the areas covered by the original additional harvesting proposal (known as CP-4), including general trail maps and a formal report produced by Mark Marton, the consulting professional forester the APOA hired to assist us. To date no revised CP-4 plans have been made available by Sn’Pink’tn for review by APOA. The MOU also proposed a follow-up meeting this fall between industry, government, APOA, and wildfire experts to begin the planning and activity required to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire damaging Apex Resort, Apex Village, or Nickel
Page 19
Plate Nordic Centre. Although a few preliminary individual discussions with government and industry occurred since the July MOU, no multi-party meetings have been convened, thus no substantive progress has been made on this topic. The other activity the APOA Forestry Committee undertook this fall was providing extensive feedback on the draft Skul’qalt Forestry Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP). Skul’qalt Forestry is the Lower Similkameen Indian Band’s logging company. An FSP is an important, legally binding document which defines the harvesting practices each harvesting company commits to follow. APOA input on that FSP has two major themes: 1. The FSP contained no commitment to providing local stakeholders with an across-the-industry view of the harvesting activity being proposed for the Apex area. We accept that Skul’qalt is a small licensee and that FSPs are company specific. However, with them and other companies active in the area there is a need for a comprehensive view of what they are planning in terms of harvesting for the short, medium, and long-term. Put simply, without a longterm view it is impossible for recreation users to adequately comment on near-term harvesting proposals. 2. It is unclear how much harvesting Skul’qalt is planning to undertake in the Apex area. Regardless, we presented the case for better-defined measures for protection of recreation trails, scenic areas, water quality, and wildlife habitats. There continue to be many important activities happening on the forestry front - too many to report in this short update. APOA is hosting a Season Opener Social, and as part of that event the Forestry Committee will present a full update on what has happened since last ski season, what is anticipated, and how you can contribute to positive outcomes. To learn more, you are invited to the Rock Oven Grill at 4 pm on Saturday, December 14th. We look forward to seeing you there! LEAVE HOME
HOME CHECK BUTLER Trustworthy
Reliable
Insured
Affordable
Trudy Deuschle ~ 250-493-8518
WORRY FREE
Serving Penticton & Apex www.homecheckbutler.com
Leave Your Home in Good Hands
with Trudy Deuschle We all head out on vacations from time to time, or perhaps leave our cabin until we return for that next family gathering. Have you ever thought about your insurance needs if you are away for any extended period of time? This is where I come in. I can help keep your insurance policy valid by providing regular routine home checks. I am insured, reliable, trustworthy and affordable. So, leave your home worry free and enjoy your much needed vacation! The Home Check Butler is a new service to Penticton and area, including Apex Mountain. I will check on your home, cabin, pets, or farm while you are away, ensuring that your needs or investments are well looked after in your absence. For more information, call me at 250-493-8518. 2500 copies of each issue will be distributed twice a month. Distribution locations will be published in the next issue. Visit www.ApexMatters.com for more information.
Page 20
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Welcome the natural beauty and texture of concrete into your home.
CABIN/CONDO CLEANING For an impeccable green clean at Apex Mountain Resort!
Linda Williamson 250-462-0658
Countertops, Sinks, Outdoor Kitchens, Furniture & More 250-488-2798
info@onyxcastings.com
lwilliamson@telus.net
www.onyxcastings.com
Branching Out A Green Clean At Apex
What’s All The Hype About Decorative Concrete? By Leann Robbins and the ONYX Team
Concrete is a mixture of aggregate (sand, rock, glass, etc.), water, and cement. The cement reacts with the water and fills the voids between the aggregate and binds it together. Concrete has been around for thousands of years and was used to form many ancient structures. The Romans, the first to use concrete, did so for over 700 years. In fact, because they used concrete, some of these architectural masterpieces, such as the Pantheon, are still in existence. In the modern age, concrete has commonly been used for foundations, highways, sidewalks, brick/blocks, and damns. Advances in technology have allowed concrete fabricators to create traditionally thick and heavy pieces, significantly thinner and lighter while maintaining structural integrity. More recently, concrete is making a name for itself in interiors. High-end architects and designers are choosing to use concrete for countertops, fireplace surrounds and furniture, because concrete is: • Durable - if sealed correctly, is incredibly stain and crack resistant • Versatile - compliments any style from French Country to Modern • Hand-Crafted - local, one of a kind, quality craftsmanship • Custom - Limitless colours, shapes, edges, accessories If you think concrete is right for you or want to learn more, contact ONYX Castings to find out how we can build your dream!
with Linda Williamson This year I am providing a new cleaning service for Apex cabin and condo owners. After 4 years experience as the Housekeeping Manager of Apex Accommodations when it was owned by Sheri and Steve Sheridan, plus another year working at the Apex Mountain Inn, I have decided to branch out and offer my own cleaning service at Apex. During summer months I have been serving my clients in Penticton and Summerland and have been successful in providing my very discerning clients with a meticulous clean. I enjoy cleaning to a high standard and feel pride in a job well done. It has become very important to me to provide a “green clean”. When I first started cleaning, I discovered that myself along with my co-workers were being exposed to the toxicity of many of the traditional cleaning supplies and we often felt ill by the end of the day. I remember one co-worker running around cleaning with a scarf masked over her nose and mouth! It also made me wonder about what sort of toxic environment we were leaving behind. I decided to research alternatives and discovered Vinegar! Not only does vinegar kill 99.9% of germs (same as Lysol and other leading commercial cleaners) it also helps prevent mould and mildew and actually deodorizes (the strong vinegar smell disappears once it dries). I am an avid skier who has been a local at Apex for over 20 years and spend the winters living up here on the mountain with my husband Ralph in our condo. I will also be offering this cleaning service during the off season for end of season, summer rentals or start of next season cleans. For more information or to book your next green clean, please call me at 250-462-0658 or email lwilliamson@telus.net. I look forward to a busy and snowy ski season! Got a snowman for hire? Advertise him here.
1
D I
New Classified Section Coming Next Issue!
5
G U A R A N T 7
Let's Swap Some More! Must be ski/snowboard related. Email apexmatters@telus.net
8
2
D E N D X 4 P S H E E N 9 O D U C T I A C T S U H R C E I P T
P P R R C O N T R A S P 11 E R E 12 B O R R O W U 13 14 D C P R I 16 G R A 17 18 M E R G E R P I N V T F I 19 U T U R N O 20 P E N N Y A D L 21 R O Y 10
Got used gear to clear? Be the first to sell it here! $5 per listing up to 20 words. All proceeds donated to the CSPS Apex Ski Patrol.
V I
1 4 5 8 10 11 12 14 17 18 19 20 21
Across share of profits paid to shareholders part of the capital of a company promise to repair or replace rate and efficiency of work legal agreement proof of payment ask the bank to advance money to the amount of debt excluding interest amalgamation of two companies put money into a company or business total sales of a company out of circulation money paid to owner of copyright or patent
2 3 6 7 9 12 13 15 16
N E V
A
3
L O A R E N
6
S T Y O C K E X C H 15 C I P A L N N S T G E E E R E S L T Y
I
V I
Down amount of money spent money lent where shares are bought and sold to be successful or fortunate neither cheque nor credit card detailed plan with dollar amounts wealth of person or business money paid for a loan money returned
Answer key to the puzzle on page 27.
www.MomentsUnderFrame.com
ApexMatters.com
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Winter Driving Tips
By Myleen Mallach Snow and ice push our driving skills to the limit. Do you know how to drive properly in winter conditions? The following tips could save you from problems when you are out on the road: • Maintain a safe following distance. It takes longer to stop on a slippery road. Look ahead and keep plenty of distance between you and other cars (at least four seconds). • Drop your speed to match road conditions. The posted speed is the maximum speed under ideal conditions. In winter, it is safer to drive below the posted speed. No matter how much experience you have, the way your car will move on snow or ice always has an element of unpredictability. My dad always told me to stick to 60 km/p in fresh snow for enough momentum to go and enough control to stop. • Watch for black ice. Slow down when approaching possible icy spots, such as shaded areas and bridges, as these sections of road freeze sooner than others in cold weather. Watch for “black ice”, areas of the road with a thin, almost invisible coating of ice, as it can cause your vehicle to suddenly lose traction, braking and cornering control. • Accelerate and brake slowly. When starting from a stop on slick roads, start slowly and accelerate gradually to maintain traction and avoid spinning your wheels. When stopping, plan well in advance, apply the brakes gently and slowly add pressure rather than braking suddenly. Pumping your brakes gently is always a good practice to follow. • Avoid sudden moves. Slow down and steer smoothly and gradually to avoid skidding. Accelerate gently, turn slowly, and brake carefully and early. Avoid unexpected quick movements that could put you in a spin. Anticipate turns, stops, and lane changes well before they occur. • Know how to handle a skid. A skid happens when your wheels slide out of control on a slippery surface and is a result of driving too fast for road conditions. If you start to skid, ease off the brake or accelerator, look and steer smoothly in the direction you want to go. Be careful not to oversteer. If you are on ice and skidding in a straight line, step on the clutch or shift to neutral.
1765 MAIN STREET PENTICTON
Helmets work. Protect your life and future by wearing one.
South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society #2 - 996 Main Street, Penticton, BC V2A 5E4 Ph: 250-490-0613 Fax: 250-490-3912 Email: info@sosbis.com Website: www.sosbis.com • •
•
•
See and be seen. It is critical for drivers to see and be seen in low light conditions, and when blowing snow impairs visibility. Always drive with your headlights on. Be extremely cautious when approaching highway maintenance vehicles. Maintain a safe following distance behind snow plows and salt or sand trucks.. These vehicles throw up snow and spray, making it difficult to see. Pull over whenever traffic is lined up behind you. This is probably the single most important and respectful thing any driver can do, especially in the winter time. If you are traveling at slower speeds for your own peace of mind, but see a number of vehicles on your bumper, simply pull over and let them pass. Many times this may only need to be an indicator light and a slight deceleration. Winter conditions and vehicle performances vary ... respect your fellow drivers. Practice. Get out and drive in the snow and ice. Know what your vehicle is capable of and what you are comfortable with. The more you drive in winter conditions - the better of the winter driver you’ll be. Young or new drivers should always practice in an empty snowy parking lot or back road.
TOLL FREE
1-866-492-2839
MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30 - 6:00 SATURDAY 8:30 - 5:00
DL#5523
Worried about Credit? Get Driving Now!
GO
Page 21
GO-CREDIT.CA EASY AS ONE... TWO... THREE!
1 GO to go-credit.ca 2 GO to online credit app 3 GO to Parkers Chrysler
Page 22
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Dino’s Snowshoe Diaries - Part 1 By Dino Giurissevich, Snowshoe Guide It definitely takes more than 30cm of snow to get me to even think about snowshoeing, and as of Friday, November 15th, that’s all there was up Apex way. But come Monday that shot up to 50-60cms, which was enough to get my attention and tweak my interest enough to call up my snowshoe buddy Joe and head up to check out the conditions. Besides, I needed a snowshoe adventure to write about. We drove up the mountain with the intention of starting at the “3 ponds parking area”, which is just off Nickel Plate Road. The day was overcast with light snow falling and no wind. Our destination would be to the summit of Riordan Mountain taking the route less travelled, through the trees, versus the frequently travelled route which follows a 4x4 road that eventually ends up at the summit as well. Donning our packs and ratcheting into our snowshoes, we headed across Nickel Plate Road and up through the trees. As I’ve mentioned in previous articles, ”early season snowshoeing off trail and through the trees can be quite tricky”. There is usually ‘no base’, which means more obstacles and air pockets which makes snowshoeing more strenuous and a little more dangerous. As we took turns breaking trail, we were pleasantly surprised that for most of our climb this was not the case. There was a descent base and as long as we wisely chose our route and our steps, obstacles were at a minimum. A fairly steep section of our route, which I normally won’t attempt until later in December, was also easily shoed. Besides the challenge and fun of breaking your own snowshoe trail this early in the season is the fact that you are developing a good trail base that will just get better each time you snowshoe it and as the season progresses. At the top of the aforementioned steep section, there is a large concrete base that was used to support the tower for the old Riordan lift line. From here we veered a little to the left and then basically followed the ridge/cliff line to the summit. This trail is heavily used by snowshoers throughout the season and is or will be hard to miss except after heavy snowfalls.
After a brief snack at the top, we were off “powder shoeing” down the northwest side of Riordan. We then looped around to the right to join into our up-track. From here we investigated another route that I usually reserve for later in the season when there is more snow, “Sara’s Bowl.” Sara’s has a tricky entrance that is steep, narrow and has a few large trees that can be a help or hindrance depending on snow stability and ones snowshoe ability. Wiggling and sliding our way past the trees and through the steep and narrow was easier than we expected. Our reward for our efforts was an amazing steep powdery slope that demanded “ye haws!!”
Powder Slope on Sara’s Bowl
From here we joined up with the old Riordan lift run just down a ways from the concrete base. We pointed our snowshoes downhill and enjoyed some excellent powder running for a couple hundred yards before turning left and meandering our way back to the 3 ponds parking area, our starting point. We had a thoroughly enjoyable snowshoe adventure with much better snow conditions than expected.
Skaha Matters Sudoku Puzzle
Snowshoe Trip Stats: Distance = 3.2 km Total Time = 2 hr 20 min
Average Speed = 1.4 km/hr Total Ascent/Descent = 265 m
*Snowshoe Tip ~ Before heading out on a snowshoe adventure, always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Dino’s Snowshoe tours tours
rentals
sales
An Excellent Christmas Gift or Stocking Stuffer!!
Enjoy A Free Tour With Every Snowshoe Purchase! dsnowshoes@vip.net
Snack break at the top of Riordan
250-809-1165
Answer key to puzzle above: Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically The answer Like us on Facebook key tofrom the right without Enter digits and read yourguessing. issue is for the Apex on-line1 the moment to 9 into the blank spaces. Every Matters Sudoku it's ready. "Keeping you row must contain oneinof each digit. Puzzle found the S'know" when on the go! So must every column, as must on page 24. Win a Free Day Pass Dec 5th! every 3 x 3 square. Enjoy!
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Fresh BC Talent Quest © Season 2
with Denis Chaykowski, Event Producer The Fresh BC Talent Quest Show is inviting local young performers from ages 8-18 years of age to enter Season 2. All forms of entertainment and all skill levels welcomed. From solo artists, groups, traditional dance, tap, belly dancers, to hip hop, instrumentalists, choir groups, magicians, etc. Registrations will continue throughout December and into January, as local schools and performers get ready for their up coming school musical productions and Christmas concerts. After Christmas and into January, Fresh BC talent Quest will be busy filling up the last remaining spots in all age groups categories. The final cut off date is January 31, 2014. First place and runner up cash prizes in each age category are up for grabs, as well event t-shirts presented to all performers on behalf of all of our sponsors. Other prizes and perks during the event for performers. Season 1 saw over two dozen performers (solo artists, duo’s, groups and instrumentalists) get involved. This year proves to be another great success. Mr. Bill Kolter, a judge for the finals and Penticton Peach Festival Entertainment Director, announced its “first ever” for Penticton Peach Festival by inviting 6 performers to perform on the Peach Festival Main Stage this summer. Fresh BC Talent Quest in partnership with the Penticton Peach Festival are committed to continuing and providing this opportunity to our Fresh BC Talent Quest finalists. A former Pen High student, Travis Turner our special guest performer (Little T) and judge from Vancouver, reminds our young performers: to “never give up on your dreams” to be a singer, performer, actor, or anything you want to be. Follow your dreams. I did! For more information on Travis “Little T“, search on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, or google his website. Registration forms are available at following Penticton locations: • The Maeve Lily School of Music - #102 - 233 Haynes St. or 778-476-5917; • Classic Guitars - 465 Main St. or 250-492-5007; • Penticton School of Dance - 221 Fairview Rd. or 250-4924440; • Opus Cafe Bistro at the Cannery in Penticton - 1475 Fairview Rd. or 788-476-5856. Ask for the Fresh BC Talent Quest forms (by name) at these locations or you can register online as well. A nominal entry fee of $10 is required to secure your spot. Registration forms can be mailed to Denis Chaykowski, 570 Martin St, Penticton, BC V2A 5L4. There is a limit of 10 entries per age group; Group A (8-10 yrs), Group B (11-14 yrs), and Group C (15-18 yrs). Semi-Finals and Quest Finals - all age groups judged accordingly. We are looking for artists (9-99 yrs) to design a new Fresh BC Talent Quest logo for the front of our t-shirts, sweatshirts, and/or hoodies. Your design and concept should “stand out” and appeal to our performers, as well as others who would want to own a “one of a kind” event t-shirt. If you would like more information on this new logo contest, email Bryan at bryancgraphics@gmail.com or visit www.cmeliveproductions. com. Contest deadline is December 31st. For more information on the Fresh BC Talent Quest event, contact Denis Chaykowski of C-Me Live Productions at 250462-2221 or cmelive@yahoo.com.
Page 23
FRESH BC TALENT QUEST SEASON 2 Open to All Forms of Entertainment All Skill Levels Welcomed Starts: Saturday, February 8, 2014 3 Age Group Categories Open to Ages 8-18 Years Performers Can Register Online www.cmeliveproductions.com Host Venue: Opus Cafe Bistro 1475 Fairview Road, Penticton
More Information At www.cmeliveproductions.com
Page 24
December 1-15, 2013
ApexMatters.com
A Senior Adventure At Apex Resort
Your Chariot Awaits You!
Introducing healthy lifestyle choices to our children is just as important as maintaining our own healthy and active lifestyles. Chariot’s innovative products do just that. Whether you are an avid athlete or a weekend warrior, Chariot has a carrier that will help you stay active with your kids all year long. As the ad space above displays the many uses for a Chariot carrier, this makes for a perfect Christmas gift for the whole family to enjoy. And, we are fully stocked right now to meet your needs. However, you must get in here before Christmas, as we close for a much needed Winter Holiday from December 24th through January 24th. For more information on the Chariot carriers, visit www. chariotcarriers.com or speak with the knowledgable staff at Freedom the Bike Shop located at 533 Main Street in Penticton.
Apex Matters Sudoku Puzzle Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically and without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square. Answer on page 22.
By Vince Rabbitte, Apex Ski Instructor In a city of seniors, should seniors really learn to ski? The answer is profoundly "yes". As an adjunct to the Snow School this season, a suggestion has been made to management to bring the city closer to the mountain. The Apex Mountain Resort should develop a program for those over 60 years of age to learn something of the sport. To qualify it would be open to those who could walk from the SS Sicamous to the Peach and back. Another good progressive exercise would be to place your hands on the kitchen table and make 20 slower quarter flexes of the knees and then come up to the upright position. This is all you need of basic fitness to start you on your way. Skis are selected and set at the rental shop in terms of your height, weight and age. Seniors would have much shorter skis, being ones from the ground up to the tips of the skis extending to just under the nose. Seniors learning for the first time would never go near a slope, but rather push around on the skis making a huge circle on the snow by moving the skis gently across the snow. The next progression would be making a large figure of eight on the level area of snow. A careful instructor would now select a slope no more than a metre high running on to a flat area. It would be at this point that an experienced instructor would start the beginners with knees bent and the fists and arms forward and out from the hips about 20 inches (40 cm). This positioning of the knees and arms forward establishes body balance on a slope. Seniors would now be introduced to a snowplow position of the skis. This simply means that the tips of the skis are set about four inches apart and the tails of the skis are set a distance apart depending on your height. It is hoped that your introduction to skiing would be a one hour free lesson on Mondays at 11am. See you on the slopes!
Great Cabin Recipes Slow-Cooker Lasagne Prep Time: 15 min Total Time: 4 hr 15 min Serves: 8
INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. (450 g) lean ground beef / 1 jar (675
ml) pasta sauce / 1 cup water / 1-3/4 cups ricotta cheese / 1-3/4 cups 4 cheese italiano shredded cheese, divided / 1/4 cup kraft 100% parmesan grated cheese, divided / 1 egg / 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley / 6 lasagne noodles, uncooked BROWN meat in large skillet; drain. Stir in pasta sauce and water. Mix ricotta, 1-1/2 cups shredded cheese, 2 Tbsp. Parmesan, egg and parsley. SPOON 1 cup meat sauce into slow cooker; top with layers of half each of the noodles, broken to fit; and cheese mixture. Cover with 2 cups of the remaining meat sauce. Top with remaining noodles, broken to fit; cheese mixture and meat sauce. Cover with lid. COOK on LOW 4 to 6 hours or until liquid is absorbed. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses; let stand, covered, 10 min. or till melted. If you have a “Great Cabin Recipe” that you would like to share, please email to apexmatters@telus.net. Happy Cooking!
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Page 25
Rural Agency Liquor Store and Grocery Store
Welcome Back!
www.MomentsUnderFrame.com
Be a Responsible Pet Owner Pets must be kept on leash in the Apex village and parking lot at all times. Please respect the roadways and paths and always clean up after your pet.
Welcome to BC Slope Swap
BC Slope Swap is a club designed exclusively for snow loving slope side property owners to enjoy and explore other hills and resorts within BC. Their mission is to provide a service to encourage local tourism and new adventures. By becoming a member and registering your property for swap, sale, or rent, you will be reaching out to a community of other slope side property owners. Robin Castle, owner and single mother of two living at Big White, was searching for an affordable option to travel with her son to slopestyle competitions on other mountains. Being a slope side property owner herself, she understood and struggled with the great cost of housing on her own hill. Then, trying to afford travel between mountains and cover the cost of accommodations at those locations proved to be a bigger challenge. Robin thought of the idea to swap with other property owners to avoid extra unnecessary costs, but could not find any forums dedicated to connecting like-minded people. In early 2013, she created a membership based website called BC Slope Swap. The BC Slope Swap team would like to invite you to try out their new website, explore a few hills, and have fun in the process. For a low annual membership of $59, BC Slope Swap provides users with the opportunity to view other swapper’s listings within the comfort of their own home. They also host listings for seasonal rentals and properties for sale. Members have complete control over who they swap with and there are no limits to the number or length of swaps. Members can also enjoy links to local businesses and activities at the resorts they are travelling to. There are no extra or hidden fees. What a great opportunity to explore our beautiful province and shred new hills. It’s so simple, and yet so easy. Let’s make this the best snow season yet. Where would you like to go next? Visit www.BCSlopeSwap.com and start your swapping today!
Now OPEN for the Season! Sunday - Thursday ~ 8am - 7pm Friday & Saturday ~ 8am - 10pm We’re fully stocked & ready to serve you!
Welcome to BC Slope Swap 250.486.0354
BC Slope Swap is a club designed exclusively for slope side www.ApexTradingPost.com property owners to enjoy and explore other hills and resorts within BC. Their mission is to provide a service to encourage local tourism and new adventures. By becoming a member and registering your property for swap, sale, or rent, you will beJay’s reaching to aIssue: community of other slope side property Pickout This owners. An annual membership is $59 and BC Slope Swap Artist: Young Galaxy provides users with the opportunity to view other swapper’s Album: Ultra Marine listings. Members have complete control over who they swap with and there are noWant” limits to the number or length of swaps. Track: “What We Members can also enjoy links to local businesses and activities This season I’m going to bring music from our own country. at the resorts they are travelling to. There are no extra or Yup, there are great Canadian bands out there ... some old, hidden fees. What a great opportunity to explore our beautiful some new, some you may know, and some you may not. province and shred new hills. It’s so simple and easy. Where Young is a Visit bandwww.BCSlopeSwap.com from Vancouver, now based in would youGalaxy like to go? and swap! Montreal. They have a early 80’s sound that caught my ear, while listening to CBC Radio 3. Great place to get great indie bands from across Canada. You know what ‘we all want’ ... Snow! Bring it on Ullr! Jay is a life-long skier, who has skied this great country from coast to coast. Join him this season in “Tunes To Turn To” with his focus on Canadian bands. YouTube his tunes and join in.
Tunes to Turn to ...
CatMatch
Robin Castle ~ robincastle@bcslopeswap.com
250.864.1351
Meet Evita Former lady of the night, I was taken in by a kind family and now like to spend my days assisting in the office. I love to type, but my spelling needs work. Looking for someone who will appreciate the odd love bite and doesn't mind a full figured gal, the kids ruined my waistline. If I have peaked your interest, you can arrange a date to meet me. Just contact www.AlleyCATSAlliance.org. ad sponsored by
Jardin Estate Jewelry & Antiques Recycling the Elegance of the Past 5221 Hwy 97 Okanagan Falls
Robin Castle ~ robincastle@bcslopeswap.com
250.864.1351
250.497.6733
www.jardinantiques.com
Page 26
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
T.W. Peter Navin
Surrounded by love with wife Lisa by his side, Peter passed away on October 18, 2013. Peter’s passions brought many amazing people into his life, which led to adventures and good times abound. He was inspired by everyone around him and in return he inspired. Lisa and Jett, along with the Navin and Howard families, invite you to celebrate an extraordinary guy who lived an influential life on November 30, 2013 at 2 pm at Penticton Trade & Convention Centre, 273 Power Street. To ensure ample seating, please visit www.eventbrite.ca/event/8941888429. A trust for Jett Navin has been set up at CIBC 07560 010 5334837. If you wish to make a donation in Peter’s honour, please consider: The Ride to Conquer Cancer, Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department, or Moog & Friends Hospice House.
Snowballs or Snow Angels?
Send in yours to apexmatters@telus.net What does this mean? Well, you can throw a “snowball" at someone for not so good actions or send a “snow angel” to another for doing good deeds. For example: "Snowballs" should be riffled at that motorist that just allowed their bag full of garbage to 'slip' out of their vehicle in the village ... the mountain ravens have spread it all over the parking lot and now the mountain staff have to pick it all up; and a huge "Snow Angel" to that nice lady who found and delivered my wallet with all my cash still inside. You get the drift ... sharing small excerpts of your day that are short and sweet. So, what do you deserve? (Please Note: Some discretion on inclusion may be involved.)
Smiles of the Day
Watch for Signs & Closures with the CSPS Apex Ski Patrol As we all dash out the starting gate of a new exciting season ahead, searching to experience those days to remember, sacrificing to Ullr as we always do ... please remember to follow the Alpine Responsibility Code. Can you fill in the blanks below?
~ The Kober Family ~
Tonya, Chloe and Rob of the Kober Family - This family lives and breathes freestyle skiing! (Photo courtesy of Ronda Barzilay.) If you have a “special smile” that you would like to share, send in your photo and short reason why to apexmatters@telus.net. Now Accepting New Patients
Mon-Thur ~ 8am - 8pm Fri ~ 8am - 5pm
Exceptional General Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Sylvain Marino 185 Front Street
250.493.6724
Dr. James Jung www.pentictondentist.com
Puzzle courtesy of the National Ski Areas Association & North Pole Design.
In the early season, everyone must ride with caution and look for unmarked hazards. The Apex Ski Patrol work daily to ensure that each run meets specific safety standards. That means, runs are closed for a reason. They may look really tempting, but there could be jagged rocks underlying what appears to be a sweet blanket of untouched powder. Always keeep your eyes open for flagged rope across the entrance to any area. Respect the closed runs, they are not patrolled. If you are injured, we will not know you’re there. Be Aware! Ride with Care!
Please Note: No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this publication. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement. All authors/advertisers are provided with a proof of their submission and their final approval must be in place in order to be published. © 2013 Okanagan Matters Publications.
ApexMatters.com
December 1-15, 2013
Answer key on page 20.
Apex Mountain Lodging Apex Mountain Inn Full Service Hotel offering ski in/out accommodations, hot tub & the Rock Oven Grill.
The Lodge
Low cost private sleeping rooms with shared kitchen facilities. New four bedroom suite, sleeps 14 in 9 separate beds, with 2 bathrooms & full kitchen.
New Brand te om Sui o r d e B 4 Lodge! in Apex ple
14 Peo & Sleeps en ll Kitch with Fu throoms. a B Private
Page 27
Page 28
December 1-15, 2013
ApexMatters.com
Apex Matters Photo Gallery - Full page each issue ~ Brought to you by Moments Under Frame Photography ~