Apex Matters “Keeping You in the S’know”
Published by Okanagan Matters Publications
www.ApexMatters.com
Join in Louise's Torchlight Parade 8pm on February 7th. See page 2.
Volume 12 : Issue 5 Your FREE Local Snow Culture Newsletter!
Early February 2015
apexmatters@telus.net
250.490.6951
Quick Facts: 2000 copies are printed twice a month from December 2014 through March 2015. Distribution covers Oliver, Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, Penticton & Summerland. Full distribution details, advertising options, and link to join our Apex Matters eNewsletter all at www.ApexMatters.com
Aaron Galvin carving through the snow. Photo by Preserved Light Photography
w
Visit us at www.southokanaganrealty.com norm@southokanaganrealty.com
PAMELA JOHNSON REALTOR®
LYNDI CRUICKSHANK REALTOR®
NORM DAVIES
JENNIFER CONNOLLY
REALTOR®
Interior Designer & Staging Consultant
For all your Apex Real Estate needs, including on-hill inquiries and viewings, contact Lyndi 250-809-1260 or Norm 250-809-1875.
Thinking of selling? We have clients looking to purchase at Apex! WANTED: » Hill-facing units at Apex Mountain Inn » 1 & 2 bedroom condos or townhomes in the village area
Call Lyndi or Norm today!
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ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Louise Burgart Our family, Our friend, Our colleague Apex Mountain Resort lost one of its family this past Sunday morning, January 25th. Louise was one of the owners of Apex Mountain Resort since 1997. Apex Mountain Resort was Louise’s second home, she lived in Fort St James. It was in Fort St James that Louise started her career as a teacher, met her husband Alan (they were married for 41 years) and raised her daughters Lara and Janna. Her professional career went on a fast track as her personality won over everyone she met. After teaching for 5 years at an elementary school she went back to school and received her Master of Education. Louise applied for a teaching position in a new school in Fort St James and the person that hired her explained “I just knew she was the one for the job as soon as I interviewed her”. Louise quickly moved into the position of Vice-Principal and then Principal. While under her direction the school received the highest marks of any school in BC. Louise’s career continued upwards as she was made superintendent and served on the BC College of Teachers. Louise was also a member of the board for the University of Northern BC and the Northern Health. After being a partner in purchasing the resort in 1997 Louise moved to Apex as a hands on owner for the winter months. To Louise Apex was much more than a business, it was a way of life. She loved to ski and would partake in Ladies Day and always strived to improve. She loved being in the mountains and would go for morning walks at 7 am up to the upper parking lot from the village. She would get to know all of the employees year after year, host potluck dinners for the employees and made her special pancakes every Tuesday and Thursday morning for the lifty’s. Louise would go above the bar in supporting local fundraisers by being overly generous with her donations. She hosted many dinner parties on the mountain which were usually followed with board or card games and she was very skilled at them all. Louise was from a big family, being the second oldest of 12 brothers and sisters. Family was very important for Louise and she always enjoyed talking about all of them. Running a ski resort has its challenges and no matter what the challenges were Louise always handled any situation with compassion and professionalism. I personally have to say that I have learned so much from Louise. Louise was my sounding board and she would always say the right things. I have always had the utmost respect for Louise and have been honored to have had the time to spend with her. Louise will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. Apex will be honoring Louise with a torchlight parade on Saturday, February 7th at 8:00 pm down the Okanagan Run. If you would like to join us in the torchlight parade please sign up at the administration office. All are welcome to take part. Immediately following the torchlight parade there will be a few speeches, and a bonfire at the bottom of the Okanagan Run to be together. We hope you will join us in this celebration. James Shalman, General Manager, Apex Mountain Resort
“Like us” on Facebook! All of our combined Facebook Friends qualify for a Free Day Pass Draw happening on February 12th. Like us both today & you could win! Winner TBA on Facebook & in Apex Matters. The January 29th winner was Melissa Hoy!
Apex Mountain Resort would like to remind local residents and visitors alike that water conservation is extremely important even in the winter! It is integral to the well-being of this beautiful mountain that we love so much. We all need to make a conscious effort to conserve when we can and remember that
Sincerely, Apex Mountain Resort
Apex Mountain Shop Located in the village of Apex Mountain Resort
Huge Inventory Blow Out!
Descente Outerwear ~ 30% off Spyder Outerwear ~ 20% off All Skis & Snowboards On Sale ~ Save $50-$500
Try Before You Buy!
Check out our Demo Tent in the Apex Village, so you can drop by for Free Demos on Saturdays! Specializing in Boot Fitting & Equipment Tuning
www.ApexResort.com
1.877.777.2739
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
February 7th -
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Torchlight Parade in memory of Louise Burgart at
8pm. Meet at bottom of T-bar at 7:30. Sign up in the main office to participate. Parade will be followed by a bonfire and social gathering.
February 8th
– BC Family day
weekend activities! Free hot chocolate at the fire at the tube park 11am-2pm. At 1pm
there will be a fun GS race for anyone that would like to join in. Race your friends or family or against the clock!
February 14th
February 9th
– BC Family day is
proudly supported by Apex Mountain Resort! We have 50% full-day lift tickets for all BC
residents! Just show proof of residency and receive your discount at the ticket window.
– We have put together a special package for the family that
includes: 2 hours of tubing with the family, 2 hours of lessons for the kids & 2 hours of arts & crafts with a movie for the kids – All for just $197 + tax!
For more info and to register please contact
snowschool@apexresort.com.
For more info you can check us out online at apexresort.com or give us a call at 1-877-777-apex
February 16th
February 14th
- Apex Brewski 2015 is SOLD
OUT! *Notice* The Gunbarrel will be CLOSED to public from 4:30-10:30pm. Entrance to live band Towers &
Trees will be extremely limited, first come, first in. $5 cover.
– AB Family day is proudly supported by Apex Mountain
Resort! We have 50% full day lift tickets for all AB residents! Just show proof of residency and receive your discount at the ticket window.
February 22nd – The second
February 22nd
happening in the Prospector Terrain Park!
at the Rock Oven Grill! A great
– The
Sunday Funday with Freeride is all
“Groove-A-Matics” are playing
Stop on by between 11am-2pm and see us for a chance to win some prizes!
blues band that likes to shake
it up with a little R&B then add a touch of soul!
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Early February 2015
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
Upcoming Social Events at Nickel Plate Please see www.nickelplatenordic.org for more information on these upcoming events, or email kdodman@icloud.com. Family Day Monday, February 9th: Come out and snowshoe or ski and enjoy a BBQ Lunch! Saturday, February 14th 10am - Noon: Nickel Plate Junior Racers Ski-a-Thon Fundraiser to raise money for a new waxing facility for all members and users of Nickel Plate. Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14th at 6pm: Potluck Dinner and Moonlight Snowshoe and Ski. Saturday, March 14th at 6pm: Potluck Dinner and Moonlight Snowshoe and Ski. Ladies Days! Friday, March 20th: Ski or snowshoe & lessons will be available. Enjoy wine, lunch & massage! Lots of door prizes to be given away! $35/person.
Thank you to our Volunteers!
Many thanks to the volunteers who helped with the success of the recent Teck Okanagan Cup races. Nickel Plate Nordic relies on the support of volunteers in many roles, and we appreciate the support of our community of volunteers!
Nickel Plate Junior Racers Ski-A-Thon
The Nickel Plate Nordic Junior Racers are having a Ski-A-Thon to raise money to improve the waxing facilities at Nickel Plate (with the completion date anticipated by the fall of 2015). The goal is to raise $10 000 for a new free standing structure and ski waxing forms and tables. These new waxing facilities will be for all members and users of Nickel Plate Nordic. This fundraiser is an opportunity for the Junior Racers to give back to the club for supporting and encouraging young athletes. The Nickel Plate Cross Country Ski Club is a volunteer, non-profit society.
Photo by Van Pratt
Teck OK Cup #6 and #7 Race Report
The Nickel Plate Nordic Club recently hosted the Teck Okanagan Cup #6 & #7 in the Okanagan Cup Race Series. There was a skating event on Saturday, January 31st, and a classic sprint event on Sunday, February 1st with distances of 1km for the Atoms and up to 15km for the Adults. Four clubs participated in the races, including: Larch Hills Nordic; Sovereign Lake Nordic; Telemark Nordic; and Nickel Plate Nordic. A total of 66 racers crossed the finish line on Saturday for the free (skate) technique race and 44 on Sunday for the classic sprints, including over 30 skiers from Nickel Plate Nordic, with many racing both days. 12 Nickel Plate Nordic Junior Racers Team members raced at the Teck OK Cup Races #6 & 7, with several podium finishers. Notable results by the Junior Racers in their respective age groups for Saturday’s race included: Simon Albrechtson (3rd); Sol Jacques (1st); Matthew Broder (2nd); Jessica Broder (1st); Olivia Selles (2nd); and Rachel Shanner (1st). Sunday’s Nickel Plate Junior Racers’ podium results included: Simon Albrechtson (2nd); Sol Jacques (2nd); Matthew Broder (3rd); Fred Albrechtson (3rd); Justin Odian (1st); Jessica Broder (1st); and Olivia Selles (2nd).
Saturday, February 14th ~ 10am - Noon The racers will be skiing as many laps as they can in 2 hours of a 3km loop around the meadows. Please consider donating to this worthy cause. Donations over $25 will receive a tax receipt for 2015 (if requested). Donations will be acknowledged in the new and improved facility with a plaque honouring contributors. Cheques can be made payable to Nickel Plate Nordic - Junior Race Team. Bronze (>$50) Silver (>$100) Gold (>$250) Platinum (>$500) To donate, please see one of the Junior Racers and/or their families, or contact Kathryn at kathryngolbeck@shaw.ca
Photo by Corwin Shanner
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Other top local finishers in their age categories on Saturday included: Rowan Musselman Bell (2nd, Pee Wee Boys); Thomas Wilkie (1st, Atom Boys); Tim Musselman Bell and John Wilkie (1st and 2nd, Masters Men 30-39); Dave Kitson and Murray Farbridge (1st and 2nd, Masters Men 50-59); Richard Finlay (Master’s Men 60+); and Olivia Evans, Alya Musselman Bell, and Leah Evans (1st, 2nd, and 3rd, Atom Girls). On Sunday, the other top local finishers included: Kai Rippey (1st, Atom Boys 1); Ian Robinson and Thomas Wilkie (1st and 2nd, Atom Boys 2); Tim Musselman Bell and John Wilkie (1st and 2nd, Masters Men 30-39); Murray Farbridge and Rick Selles (1st and 3rd, Masters Men 50-59); Catherine Robinson (2nd, Pee Wee Girls 2); and Ingrid Musselman Bell (1st, Masters Women 30-39). The overall top adult finishers of Saturday’s Free (skate) Race were Brian May, with a time of 38:53 in Men’s 15km skate ski, and Abbigail May, with a time of 22:48 in the Women’s 10km skate ski, both of Larch Hills Nordic. The overall top adult finishers of Sunday’s Classic Sprints were Tim Musselman Bell of Nickel Plate Nordic and Randi Ostby of Larch Hills Nordic. Complete results for the Teck OK Cup #6 and #7 can be found at www.nickelplatenordic.org/site_map/Races/races. htm. Photos from both days of racing can be found at www. nickelplatenordic.org/photo_gallery/photo_gallery.htm. Local sponsors include: Swagman Racks; Bartier Bros. Winery; Upper Bench Winery & Creamery; Laughing Stock Winery; Loco Landing; Brodo; The Bench Market; Hoodoo Adventures; The Bike Barn; Sue and Geoff Severide; Sue Salter (Corderilla Consulting); Richard Findley (Summerland Builders Mart); Lisa Singleton (Pro Physio Therapy); and Lori Jang.
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Nickel Plate Annual 30km Classic Loppet: Saturday, February 7, 2015 The annual Nickel Plate Loppet will be held on Saturday, February 7th, 2015 at the Nickel Plate Nordic Centre. Race distances will be 3km for children, 7.5km for youth, and 15 or 30km for adults. As an all-ages event, this race will offer both fun and competition in a world-class cross-country ski location! Registration is now open on Zone4.ca. See www. nickelplatenordic.org for the Race Notice, links to registration, course maps, and directions to Nickel Plate Nordic. Early bird registration rates were available until January 21st. Registration closes on Friday, February 6th. Thank you to our sponsors The Bike Barn, Peach City Runners, Cordillera Consulting, Louis Garneau, Fischer, Swix and Salomon Skis, Bartier Bros. Winery, Upper Bench Winery & Creamery, Laughing Stock Winery, Loco Landing, Brodo, The Bench Market, Swagman Racks, Hoodoo Adventures, as well as the many volunteers who support the annual Nickel Plate Loppet. Teck Resources Limited is the major sponsor for Teck Cup (they have supplied wax kits for all children over 10). The chili sponsors for both Nickel Plate Loppet and Teck Cup are: Sue and Geoff Severide, Sue Salter (Corderilla Consulting), Richard Findley (Summerland Builders Mart), Lisa (and Alan) Singleton (Pro Physio Therapy) and Lori Jang. As well, thank you Esther Skrypiczajko, Esther Minty and Kim Dodman for preparing the chili.
Teck Resources Limited is the title sponsor of Cross Country BC’s Skier Development Program, thereby supporting excellence in sport and providing youth with experiences that will help them prepare for A tried and true chili recipe: the future. For more information on Cross Country BC, please visit In a large soup or stew pot, cook one package of ground turkey, www.crosscountrybc.ca. chicken, beef, or bison (your preference!)
A Favourite After-Ski Meal: Chili!
Photo by Van Pratt
Weather, Snow & Grooming Conditions Wondering about snow and weather conditions at Nickel Plate? For daily reports on grooming, snow, and real-time weather, please visit our website at www.nickelplatenordic.org and click on “Snow Report” and “Current Weather”.
Nickel Plate Nordic Centre is on Facebook (Nickel Plate Nordic Centre) and Twitter (@NickelPlateXC). Follow us for regular updates.
Once the meat is cooked, add one chopped onion and several cloves of minced garlic. Saute a few minutes and then add 2 chopped carrots, and one or more green, red and / or yellow peppers. If you like mushrooms, chop a few handfuls and add those as well! Saute a few more minutes. Add one large can of whole tomatoes, or 4-5 fresh chopped tomatoes (you might have to add extra liquid such as chicken broth with the fresh tomatoes, but not more than ½ cup); one drained and rinsed can of kidney beans, and one drained and rinsed can of black beans. If you like chickpeas, add one drained and rinsed can of these as well. Add salt, pepper, chili seasoning, cayenne pepper, dill, basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, and cover – cook for 30-45 minutes. Add 1-2 cups of frozen corn and let simmer another 10-15 minutes. Serve with grated cheese and sliced avocado, and share a bowl with your friends, because skiing, food and good company go hand-in-hand!
CABIN/CONDO CLEANING For an impeccable green clean at Apex Mountain Resort!
Linda Williamson
lwilliamson@telus.net
250-462-0658
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ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
The Art Of Waxing Cross Country Skis
By Frank Perrier of Peach City Runners Where do you start when it comes to waxing your cross country skis, especially with ‘classic skis’ under the boot of the ski which is know as the kick zone or climbing zone? With the proper kick waxes that are applied in the kick zone, it will determine if you have good grip, average grip or no grip. There are hundreds of different wax applying combinations that we can create and apply in the kick zone of our skis to give us the best possible grip on the snow. There are over fifteen different wax companies with all their hundred plus different wax products that they sell. First, you must select the skis that will match your weight and then skiing ability, as in racers to recreation skiers. This is very important as the wrong weight to ski cambers ratios will create waxing problems from the start. Have someone with the proper tools and stand boards to measure your cambers of your skis, which includes skate skis as well as classic skis. What gives you a fast ski is the right ski camber for your weight, the quality of the ski base, the structures in the ski base, and lastly the wax you are using that day. Your kick and glide cambers will be marked on the side walls of the ski and on the racing skis, unless you have six pairs or so, then three sets of kick cambers are marked depending on the snow conditions from soft snow to hard pack and fast snow. The kick zone of the skis should be sanded and a base binder ironed in then corked smooth. Your kick wax for the day is then applied in thin layers and corked smooth between layers, so that there are no lumps in your kick wax. Racers will have as many as eight layers of the same wax or usually a mix of different wax for the difference snow conditions on the race course. This is where it becomes an art of waxes. Recreation to sport skiers should at least apply four to six thin layers and corked smooth. Before you apply your kick waxes, your glide zones should be waxed first, so you don’t contaminate the kick waxes from scraping and brushing the glide wax. Klister waxes are from a different planet. They are very sticky, thick and tacky to work with, like thick honey. There are a couples of ways to apply klister waxes and the best way is to have someone show you how to do it, or better still, have them wax your skis for you ... Or some people will have a waxless ski in their ski bag to click in and go. I’ve just scratched the surface on waxing cross country skis and I will talk a little bit about waxing for glide on your classics and skate skis in the next issue. For more info on waxing, contact us at the store and we will help you to create ‘art’ on your skis. Ski You Later!
CLASSIC / SKATE / BACKCOUNTRY SKIS
SERVICE
3 Person Triangle Spa 72”x72”x35” 28 Jets Full Foam Insulation Acrylic Shell All 2008 Models Drastically
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We must make room for 2009 models!
Complete Line of Calypso Spa Chemicals
250.493.3850 1.866.493.7665 64 West Industrial Avenue, Penticton
www.classicleisurelifestyles.com
The Trading Post Rural Agency Liquor Store & Grocery Store
Cold Beer!
We have a huge selection. Tons of Great Local Wines as well. Regular Hours: Sunday to Thursday ~ 8 am - 7 pm Friday and Saturday ~ 8 am - 10 pm
250.486.0354 www.ApexTradingPost.com
John Davis Contracting Premier Apex Builder ~ Since 1994
Strata Maintenance & All Repairs
SNOWSHOES
214 Main Street, Penticton 250-490-3334 Tuesday - Saturday 9:30 - 5:00 www.PeachCityRunners.com
SALES
Relax after a hard day on the hill ...
RENTALS
Skidsteer Service ~ Excavation, Backfill, Site Prep & Driveway Grading
John (Diesel) Davis ~ 250.490.7952 johndaviscontracting@gmail.com
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Page 7
On The World Cup Mogul Circuit
Locals Night .. When Locals Go Loco! Sunday, February 22nd 6-9 pm at the Rock Oven Grill with the GROOV-A-MATICS
Swingin, Melodic Rocker Pop, Shaken with Rhythm and Blues, Stirred with Torch and Twang The Groov-A-Matics are not ageless, even though their music is ... Our harp player Rick is going to be 70 on February 21st! The party for this scary milestone begins at 6pm on Sunday, February 22nd at the Rock Oven Grill. Help this geezer celebrate with frenetic dancing, boisterous singing, some adult beverages down the hatch and finally a lovely meal to offer the pretense of order and civility. Participate in grade school art making ... No, not a coloring contest this time. And, study up on music trivia, because judging from the last 2 gigs, not many of you know a hoot about the best ever decades of music ... the 60’s and 70’s. Reservations will be needed. For some reason that The GroovA-Matics cannot fathom, the Apex Hillbillies are packing the joint each month, so gratitude and condolences to you all. Rick may be on the other side of the mountain, but it is still the ‘Wild Side’! Let’s get wild together, because we were “Born to be wi-i-ild ...”!
with Andi Naude I have some very exciting news to share with you all! This past week, at the Lake Placid World Cup, I managed to climb onto a World Cup podium (3rd place) for the first time in my life! I am still so excited that I can hardly find my words. After the World Championships in Austria, I spent four days at home prior to travelling to Lake Placid, NY. Although I did not perform as well Apex’s Andi Naude, as I would have liked to in Austria, 2014 Canadian National it was still an extremely valuable Mogul Champion learning experience. After a bit of a rough patch, the days I spent at home really helped me rest and regroup. I changed my mindset, and came to Lake Placid feeling fresh and ready to go. During the two training days I felt solid, and I knew exactly what I had to do. On the competition day, I skied three solid runs and ended up in 3rd place! I couldn’t believe it when I saw my score come in after my final run; I had actually reached the podium. I will never ever forget that moment. Now, I am spending a few days in Montreal prior to competing at the Val St. Come World Cup held on Saturday, February 7th. I plan to continue to focus on the process and have fun. I also want to say thank you so much to everyone for the overwhelming love and support. I cannot thank you enough. Bye for now!
2015 Lake Placid World Cup Womens Moguls ~ Andi Naude - Bronze, Justine Dufour-Lapointe - Gold and Hannah Kearney - Silver. (Photo by Evan Spinosa)
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Early February 2015
ApexMatters.com
News From Apex Freestyle Club by ronda barzilay A big shout out to Coach Kenni and the AFC Team showing amazing talent and courage battling it out on the icy course on January 30th and February 1st at the Canada Cup located in Calgary on the World Cup Course in Canada Olympic Park! Due to extreme course conditions, they ran single moguls both days instead of the normal Canada Cup format of singles one day and duals the next. Saturday - Single Mogul Results Making finals on Saturday was Madison Parker, Kassidy Todd, Anna Spence, Shaina Finlayson, Mason Barzilay and Mackenzie Schwinghamer, Josh Kober and Brayden Kuroda AFC girls Chloe Kober and Courtney MacDonald narrowly missing finals. Also competing in this event was Jamie Rykuiter, Noah Spence, Koleton Phipps, Kyle Parker, Joe Durham, Hayden Person, Max Todd and James Naude. Sunday - Single Mogul Results It was amazing day for our girls with seven of the nine AFC girls making finals! Final results for the girls was Mason finishing 4th just missing podium followed by Madison in 5th, Anna 6th, Kassidy 8th, Shaina 10th, Jamie 15th and Chloe 16th. The boys put down another great day with five of the eight AFC boys making finals! Final results for the boys was Josh finishing 6th, Brayden 10th, Hayden 13th, Joe 18th and Koleton 23rd.
Canada Cup - AFC girls happy about making finals at COP
Noah Spence Back Lay at COP Canada Cup
AFC Girls at COP Canada Cup
Joe Durham, Coach Kenni and Chloe Kober
Congratulations to the AFC and Alumni who competed in the Apex NorAm Mason Barzilay, Madison Parker, Kyle Parker, Mackenzie Schwinghamer, Kassidy Todd, Josh Kober, Jordan Kober, Koleton Phipps and Noah Spence. A high calibre mogul competition only one level below the World Cup with 130 plus athletes from six or more countries including Canada, USA, Australia, Japan, Bermuda, Germany and some of BC’s and Apex’s Best. A big Thank You to Apex Mountain Resort and all of our amazing volunteers and Penticton Lakeside Resort, Covert Farms Winery and Kraft Canada for helping make this event possible.
NorAm starting area for single moguls
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Page 9
Jordan Kober going off the first air at the Apex NorAm
Good Luck to the AFC team who are off to Timber Tour II in Whistler for Family Day Weekend! Apex NorAm Winners Single Moguls - with medal presenter Rhya Covert
BIG Congratulations to Noah Spence, Kyle Parker, Madison Parker and Mackenzie Schwinghamer for qualifying for the 2015 Canada Winter Games in Prince George kicking off on February 13th! We will be cheering you on from Apex! Good Luck to Josh Kober, Noah Spence and Kyle Parker who are off to Val St Com and Killington NorAms! Sending big hugs and healing vibes out to Courtenay McDonald who is recovering quickly at Calgary Children’s Hospital! Hope to see you back on the slopes soon!
AFC Junior Comp watching the Apex NorAm looking spiffy in the AFC Team Suits
Other Upcoming Competitions Le Massiff, Quebec - Canada Cup - March 12th - 15th Silver Star, Vernon - BC Timber Tour & Super Youth Finals March 12th - 15th Val St Com, Quebec - Senior Nationals - March 19th - 22nd Silver Star, Vernon - Throwdown Hoedown - March 27th - 29th Silver Star, Vernon - Junior Nationals - April 2nd - 5th Media - Ronda Barzilay - 250.878.4252 - rondabarzilay@shaw.ca
apexfreestyleclub.com
AFC NEW SCHOOL SKIING HITTING
JUMPS Apex NorAm Course
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ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Carvers Corner
Results: U12 Girls with Johnny Smoke, 1st Noa Rogers Carver Coach 2nd Ana Large It’s a bit of a quiet week for the older 4th Elizabeth McIntosh kids, but it was a very busy one for the Carvers. In case you didn’t know, the U11 Girls Apex Carvers are our younger athletes. 1st Blanka Gerloczy We start them at around 4 or 5 years U10 Girls old, and our focus is to give them a solid set of fundamental 1st Sienna Blaser ski skills that will let them enjoy high performance skiing for 3rd Molly Raymond the rest of their life. We use the whole mountain, with time 5th Phi Gentes spent on groomed runs, moguls, steeps, trails, and of course 8th Tia Santoro gates. While competition is part of our program, we stress a 10th Talia Robinson more inclusive definition that focuses on self improvement and 11th Rayne Lahey development of a very rounded set of sportsmanlike qualities 12th Hadley Erickson in each athlete. 13th Kinga Gerloczy This past weekend we got to put that to the test with a race U9 Girls on the Okanagan Run. Over 130 young racers from Apex, 1st Asia Borg Big White, Manning Park, and Harper Mountain came out to 2nd Hannah Droppo participate. Our Apex Carvers had great success. Everyone 4th Nicole Rogers who came out not only finished the event, but also got a medal 9th Alexis Seddon and a COOKIE! 11th Rachel Taylor I couldn’t be more proud of this group, and also I’d like to give 12th Alena Lahey a huge thank you to all the parents who came out and ran this U8 Girls event. It wasn’t just the first race for the kids, as it was also 3rd Eva Wyse the first time many parents were part of a ski race as well. The 12th Danielle Cutjar many smiles I saw after the race were testimony to how well U7 Girls things went. 1st Marie Droppo 2nd Lily Raymond 4th Madelyn Seddon 6th Ava Kosaka 7th Chevy Matthews 8th Alexis Duncan U6 Girls 2nd Sophia Jaron-Flower 5th Bree Cutjar 6th Ayla Musselman-Bell 8th Maha Gillerstedt U5 Girls 1st Chloe Large
U12 Boys 1st Heming Sola 2nd Jake Erickson 3rd Connor Robinson 4th Quinten Pearson U11 Boys 1st Jaras Grant 2nd Jack Macintosh 4th Chet Gregg 5th Zack Lowe U10 Boys 7th Achile Kosaka 9th Patrick Ward U9 Boys 2nd Erik Gillerstedt 3rd Rowan Mussleman Bell 9th Taver Grant 10th Ryan McMillan U8 Boys 2nd Balint Gerloczy 3rd Max Johnson 4th Gavin Santoro 9th Hans Alex U7 Boys 1st Sam Marshall 2nd Bram Drew-Scott 4th Nash Sereda U6 Boys 2nd Jake Lowe 6th Cohen Gfeller
See you at the NEW Apex Ski Club Cabin!
A big hardware haul for the Carvers!
Inspecting the course with Coach Smoke (Photo by Barb Haley)
Rayne Lahey in the gate. (Photo by Barb Haley)
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
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APEX SKI CLUB GATE BUSTERS
We are excited to announce a new program from the Apex Ski Club. Gate Busters is a fun introduction to the world of gates and racing. Look for us on the T-Bar on Saturday evenings from 3-5 pm. One of our Carvers cCaches, Tyler Gerelus will be on hand to set gates and to offer tips and coaching. In addition, our own local Olympian Gary Athans will also drop in to offer his expertise. This fundraising effort is being offered for the low drop in price of only $10 per adult and $5 per youth or child. Come on out and bust some gates!
Gate Busters - Saturday Evenings on the T-Bar.
APEX SKI CLUB - WE AIM 2 WIN
Building Skills & Self Esteem to Last a Lifetime www.apexskiclub.com
Hockey Tournaments Done Until Next Season
with Marc Tougas, Apex Hockey Organizer The 11th Annual Shotgun Hockey Tournament - Jan 22-25 Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate the best for the third and final outdoor hockey tournament this season. However, teams were able to play their scheduled games on Thursday and Friday. Teams that only played one game had the option of playing a second game in Penticton. Some teams did go down and play, but most wanted to stay up and party ... And, so they did. Apex Hockey hosted two earlier outdoor hockey tournaments in January. The 15th Annual Shootout Hockey Tournament was held from January 8-11 and the 12th Annual Firefighters Hockey Tournament was held from January 15-18. Thanks again to all who came and played in the Apex Hockey Tournaments this season. Thanks to Apex and their staff for providing a great outdoor hockey facility. Thanks to the accommodators, the restaurants, and all the staff who made us all feel at home. See you all next year! For more information, please visit www.apexhockey.com.
Thirsty Thursdays
Drink Specials ~ $4 draft, wine & highballs
Friday/Saturday Happy Hour 3:30-5:00 $15 jugs & $3 off any appie
Locals Sundays
$6 Caesars & $5 off any meal (Apex Matters ad must be presented)
Open Thursday to Sunday 3:30 pm - 10:00 pm Eat-in / Take-out / Delivery
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ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Great Cabin Recipes Chicken, Potato & Vegetable Bake
Prep Time: 15 min Total Time: 1 hr 15 min Serves: 6
WHAT YOU NEED ~ 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (1-1/2 lb./675 g) / 1-1/2 lb. (575 g) Yukon gold potatoes (about 3), peeled, coarsely chopped / 3 carrots (1/2 lb./225 g), coarsely chopped / 1 onion, coarsely chopped / 1/3 cup Kraft Calorie-Wise Zesty Italian Dressing / 2 Tbsp. Kraft 100% Parmesan Light Grated Cheese MAKE IT ~ Heat oven to 400°F. Place chicken and vegetables in large baking dish; drizzle with dressing. Cover. Bake 1 hr or until chicken is done (170ºF), uncovering after 50 min. Sprinkle with cheese. SUBSTITUTES ~ Prepare using sweet potatoes. Or, Substitute red peppers for the carrots If you have a “Great Cabin Recipe” that you would like to share, please email to apexmatters@telus.net. Happy Cooking!
More Uninteresting & Useless Apex Facts
By Sheldon Hansen Well, perhaps a wee bit more interesting, some local First Nations people have made reference to the Seven Peaks. Apex is one. Can you name the others? Betcha can’t. Personally, I think there are only six and a half. Did you know that before power saws were used around Apex, loggers and miners used one and two man crosscut saws to cut logs,trees, firewood etc. On two man saws, one would be at each end of the saw to pull the saw back and forth through the log. To keep the saw from binding and in sync, one would sing, "I got it, you got it, I got it, you got it" or "come to me, go from me, come to me, go from me". Do you think this cadence could fit the bottom ‘T Bar’ lifties? Did you know that hundreds of Ladybugs have been known to mate on top of Beaconsfield during the summer? Isn’t that just like some females to make males climb mountains and other obstacle courses then select only the strongest dudes leaving the rest tired, frustrated and unfulfilled in whatever males think they are very good at? Ah, go away. 1
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Answer key to the left is for the White Kennedy crossword puzzle found on page 23.
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The answer key below is for the Sudoku Puzzle found on page 22.
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ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Page 13
An Industry Worth Exploring in the Okanagan By Lyndie Hill – Hoodoo Adventure Company Adventure tourism is a type of niche tourism involving exploration or travel to remote areas, where the traveler should expect the unexpected. Adventure tourism is rapidly growing in popularity as tourists seek unusual holidays, different from the typical beach vacation. Growth in the adventure travel market has accelerated at a 65 percent yearly rate since 2009 according to the newly released Adventure Tourism Market Study – a consumer report by The George Washington University. The study estimates the value of the global outbound adventure travel sector to be US$263 billion, excluding airfares. When this US$263 billion is combined with the estimated $82 billion spent for related gear, apparel and accessories, adventure travelers spent more than $345 billion in 2012 for travel related to adventure. “Adventure tourism’s steep climb is attributed to growth in the global tourism industry, a significant increase in the percentage of adventure travelers, and an increase in the average amount spent per adventure travel trip”, said ATTA President Mr. Shannon Stowell. “This comes as positive news, of course, and reinforces the ATTA community’s rising commitment to safety, education, training and development of innovative and culturally and environmentally sound travel options. As we watch adventure travel tourism grow it is imperative that we continue to provide travelers with transformative experiences, all while helping to protect and respect the very people and places visited.” The ATTA defines a trip as “adventure travel” if it involves two of the following three elements, with the core of an adventure trip involving all three: connection with nature interaction with culture a physical activity
Information available in the Adventure Tourism Market
Study is expected to aid the adventure travel industry, destinations looking to build or enhance their adventure offerings, and adventure tourism operators seeking to better understand their target market. Comparing these findings with recent ATTA adventure tourism trade studies also reveals important differences between the expenditures of guided and un-guided adventure travelers. For example, ATTA Members’ customers spend approximately $3,000 per person per trip (excluding airfare and gear), roughly three times higher than the independent adventure traveler.
Photos by: Matt Clarke at Stirl and Rae Photo Statistics from: www.adventuretravelnews.com
The Adventure Tourism Market Study is a barometer for the size and characteristics of the adventure tourism market. Adventure travel is a sector of tourism increasingly recognized for attracting environmentally and culturally aware consumers and for its focus on responsible and sustainable development, a model designed to create economic opportunities for local people in rural and remote communities worldwide.
Page 14
Early February 2015
Dino’s Snowshoe tours tours
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ApexMatters.com
Upon reaching the upper section of the meadows, we snowshoed past an iconic glacial erratic, over snowdrifts and through the trees eventually reaching the summit. From here we searched for a spot out of the wind in which to start a fire, which we had planned to do in order to roast smokies and s’mores. But, the wind forced us to wait until we got lower down the mountain where there is a plateau just above Keremeos Creek. This spot would be out of the wind and where I’ve had a fire in the past.
250-809-1165
Dino’s Snowshoe Diaries - Part 5
By Dino Giurissevich, Snowshoe Tour Guide January 18, 2015 ~ This snowshoe tour/adventure was with long time customers/friends Sue and Graham, who always invite friends and relatives along for an experience they may not have if snowshoeing on their own. Joining us this time were their friends, Ruth, Lu, Wendy and Graham’s cousin Jeremy originally from New Zealand, but now living in Phoenix, Arizona and running a race company called 4-Peaks Racing. This would be Jeremy’s first- time-ever snowshoeing. Initially, our route was to be from the 3 Ponds parking lot to the “Swagger Inn” cabin at Lost Lake, but blue skies pushing away the clouds convinced us to snowshoe to the top of “Rock Oven Meadows”, as it is always nice to enjoy the spectacular views mountaintop’s have to offer on a clear day. From the top of “Rock Oven Meadows”, one has a birds-eye view of Apex Village, parts of the ski hill and views of Green, Dividend, Riordan and 3 Bears mountains, to name but a few. Our starting point would be a short drive out of the village to a pull-out near the avalanche barricade arm. Getting out of our vehicles, we were greeted by a huge gust of wind that blew snow out of the trees sending it swirling every which way creating a momentary whiteout. Little did we know that this would be a hint of things to come? Before heading out, we discussed a few safety tips. First time snowshoer, Jeremy ... Ready for One of them being the wind, the new snowshoe adventure with friends! which had just picked up. I informed the group to be aware of swaying trees and “snow bombs” in trees and not to stop under them, as the wind makes these hazards more susceptible to falling and causing potential injury. Evidence of “snow bombs” having hit the ground was quite evident, as we snowshoed along our route. Taking turns breaking trail, we soon approached the lower end of the meadows. Here, once again out in the open, we were “snow blasted” by gale force winds, the likes which I have not felt in 20 years of snowshoeing this route. Not to say that it was bad. It was actually quite unique to be in the midst of all this energy! (On a side note, the wind comes from the west, through these meadows piling up snow on the eastern side of the meadows and beyond. This accumulated snow is what can pose potential avalanche risk, which can run right down to the road and is why the avalanche barricades are in place.)
After a few tips and techniques on how to downhill “powder run”, we were all off hooting and hollering and enjoying the powder nirvana which lasted for at least 10 minutes. Jeremy, our snowshoe newbie caught on quickly to powder running ... must be that running background. Upon reaching the plateau, some collected firewood, some cut sticks for roasting smokies and some readied the food and opened fruity beverages. I was in charge of starting the fire, which I had blazing in about 10 minutes. After about half an hour, we had some great coals for roasting our smokies and s’mores. It doesn’t get much better!
Alas, all good things must come to an end, as it was time to head back. After smothering our fire with snow, we headed off along the plateau continuously curling left to eventually reconnect with our starting point. This was truly an amazing snowshoe outing with a fun bunch of people. Shoe you all later! Extra Information ~ The Norwegians, from what I understand, installed a weather station somewhere near Nickel Plate Nordic when they were training there for the Olympics. It is quite accurate and I have used it many times to plan my outdoor adventures. Give it a view at http://www.yr.no/place/Canada/ British_Columbia/Nickel_Plate_Mountain/
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Page 15
The Zen Of Winter By Denise Mend, Physiotherapist Every year, my article for this paper seems to be about Nickel Plate and all it has to offer to the mountain crowd. Cross country skiers are some of the fittest athletes (particularly into our eight and ninth decades). Snowshoe trails are accessible to many and offer a slower, quieter alternative to embrace winter. Cost of equipment and passes are lower than the downhill equivalents. Downhill skiing; however, has the thrill of tucking down fresh corduroy or hero snow making you feel like a pro skier. However you choose to get above the clouds, mindfulness is a state that can be experienced during all the snowy pursuits and one that we all can benefit from. Being on top of the mountain and nothing but the sound of wind and your heartbeat before you push off down Twenty-Two. The absolute silence in a snow covered meadow and all you hear is your breath as you step through feather light snow. The squeak of your boot on a very cold track as you get your skis on. Mindfulness is a state of active, open attention on the moment. When you’re mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them good or bad. Instead of being distracted by your thoughts, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experience. (Psychology Today) The benefits to our nervous system and overall health are many, when we are mindful (Shian etal): • improved cognition • decreased blood pressure • decreased stress hormone levels • reported higher levels of life satisfaction, competence and vitality • decreased reported persistent pain levels I have heard many of my skiing buddies say they can feel their blood pressure lower as they drive up Green Mountain Road. We all have a personal and unique relationship with the mountain and snow. We are all a little more mindful when we are engaged in a winter sport. Whatever your reasons for being up here, be assured that you are making an investment in your health. Denise Mend, PT has been an associate at Dale Charles Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic Physiotherapy for the past twenty years and gets “above the clouds” every chance she can in the winter.
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Page 16
Early February 2015
APOA Update By Jeff Brown, APOA Forestry Advisory Committee The APOA is a non-profit organization that provides a collective voice for the property owners of Apex Village. And, what is Apex Village exactly? Our community is unincorporated, so its residential property is classified as rural, with local government the responsibility of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS). If real estate is your thing, then here are some numbers. Apex has over 375 condo units with a combined assessed value of around $60M. There are also approximately 150 single family and duplex residential properties with a combined assessed value of about $40M. So, Apex Village is $100M of recreation property, plus a few dozen vacant lots. The village’s commercial real estate such as the ski shop, the Gunbarrel, the office, the day lodge, and the machine shops are owned by Apex Mountain Resort, a privately held company. The ski runs themselves are crown land, leased to Apex Mountain Resort. So, who delivers village services? The roads are maintained by Argo Road Maintenance, a private company working under contract from the provincial government. Fortis provides the electricity. Water and sewer are operated by Apex Mountain Resort. Waste removal (i.e. garbage) has been a perennial issue of debate and discussion. In theory, it is the responsibility of RDOS, but in practice Apex Resort currently manages the recycle bin and trash compactor. All-in-all everything seems pretty well taken care of right? So, why does the APOA exist? A couple of decades ago the APOA was formed to give Apex property owners a voice in the political issues of that time. Since then APOA has been working quietly in the background. We’ve been consulting with Argo to ensure snow plowing accommodates the need for ski-in/ski-out access, and flagging safety concerns when road maintenance is required. When RDOS is considering rezoning they talk to the APOA to help gather input from property owners. Whenever a new location of the waste transfer station is proposed, the APOA is sure to hear numerous property owner concerns about its location and cost! And of course, there is a close and supportive relationship between the APOA and the volunteer fire department. So, is that APOA in a nutshell? Until recently, yes, but two things are happening that significantly impact property owners and real estate values. The first is just getting started: RDOS has launched an initiative for revamping community plans throughout the district, and this includes Apex village. A community plan guides future real estate development, so obviously the APOA membership is keenly interested in that. APOA recruited a representative to attend these community planning meetings, and we’ll be keeping our membership informed as RDOS gets things rolling. And then, there is forestry. Essentially, all the land surrounding Apex Village and Nickel-Plate Nordic Center – pretty much as far as the eye can see – is crown land, and the majority of that land is in the forest harvest land base. And more to the point, the industry considers our favourite recreation area ripe for harvesting. BC is rapidly running out of areas that are economic to harvest, so with its mature trees and well developed roads the pressure to harvest this entire area is relentless.
ApexMatters.com
Okay, now comes the one thing, the most important thing you’ll want to know if you are a property owner at Apex. Under current BC regulations it is professional foresters, not government staff, not RDOS, who manage “protection” of tourism and recreation value when harvesting crown land. It might be difficult for the implications of that last statement to sink in, so it is worth restating. The provincial government has decided that the recreation value of the land surrounding your Apex property, the recreation value that is the very reason you own property at Apex, is at the pleasure of the forest industry. There’s really no other way of putting it. Most professional foresters are very nice people, they do care about the land. However, they are paid employees of the forestry industry - an industry that makes its money from harvesting, not tourism, not recreation. It is a fundamental conflict of interest that the industry takes great pains to downplay. Although, it is much more a theory than reality, the industry’s power to degrade or even destroy local recreation value is supposed to be balanced by a requirement for the industry to involve local stakeholders when planning harvesting activity. So, basically the province outsourced oversight of harvesting to local volunteers. And, the term “local stakeholder” is interpreted very narrowly; as in local property owners and local recreation clubs. The RDOS has no jurisdiction in forestry matters and cannot effectively represent property owner interests when it comes to harvesting. Compelling the industry to consider the interests and perspectives of local property owners, businesses, and recreation users has been a vital role for APOA in the last few years. Unfortunately, things are very much stacked against us. Under BC regulation, any concerns that recreation users have over harvesting “may be accommodated”; for example by slightly modifying cut block boundaries or relocating and rebuilding a trail that is wiped out by clear cutting. However, APOA has found that the regulations have no substantive requirement that the negative impact on recreation is ACTUALLY addressed, and always there is a qualifier in the regulations: as long as harvest volumes are not reduced. Large clear-cuts are the only option considered economically viable by the industry under “current conditions”, so that is what we are seeing. Most days it feels like the provincial government has abandoned the recreation and tourism values of our area. This needs to be fixed. In the highly political world of forestry versus recreation there is strength in numbers. The more property owners the APOA represents, the more powerful our collective voice becomes when meeting with government and industry. So, as a property owner you have a choice to make. You can leave the future of the Apex-Nickel Plate area up to the forest industry. Or, you can join the only organization that is focused 100% on protecting your interests as a recreation property owner. A key role of the APOA is to communicate with its membership; if you are not a member you are out-of-the-loop. There will be an APOA forestry and recreation information meeting on Saturday, February 28th at 4:00 pm in the Apex Resort Day Lodge. For this meeting everyone is welcome, including non-property owners. It is a great opportunity to join, so bring your $30. Yes, that is all it costs, $30. The APOA is 100% volunteer effort. At the information session we’ll provide the latest facts on what is happening in forestry. We’ll also update you on the APOA’s initiative to get Apex-Nickel Plate properly designated and managed as the vibrant and important recreation area it is, not just some forest ripe for harvesting.
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
THE FUTURE OF THE APEX FOREST IS IN PERIL.
LOGGING UPDATE MEETING Saturday, February 28th at 4pm Apex Mountain Day Lodge CRUCIAL INFORMATION (See Article to Left)
Who cares about your property more than you? Get involved! Membership ~ $30/yr Property Owner & $15/yr Non-owner
www.ApexPropertyOwners.com On behalf of all APOA members, the Board expresses heartfelt gratitude for Louise Burgart’s dedication to Apex Mountain Resort. Her work created our play ... Thank you so much, Louise. Welcome the natural beauty and texture of concrete into your home.
Countertops, Sinks, Outdoor Kitchens, Furniture & More 250-488-2798
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Come visit us at the Penticton Home & Renovation Show March 7 & 8 at the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre
Page 17
Area “D-1” Official Community Plan Update
OPEN HOUSE It’s your home. It’s your Plan! The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is updating the Official Community Plan (OCP) for Electoral Area “D-1”, an area that includes the communities of Apex, Kaleden, St. Andrews and Twin Lakes. The first Open House will take place in Kaleden on February 26th from 5pm to 8pm at the Kaleden Elementary School. The drop-in style event will provide an opportunity for residents to learn about the project, share their vision for the future development of Area “D-1” as a whole and the individual communities they call home, and highlight the issues they feel that the OCP should prioritize. Originally adopted in 1999, the Area “D-1” OCP was reformatted and updated in 2008, but without any substantive changes to the original plan. The OCP update will be a community-driven process. “It’s a great opportunity for residents to get involved and engaged in their community,” says Siddon, “and to help shape it’s future.” The RDOS planning team will be looking to engage broadly with residents, business owners, property owners and other stakeholders. The RDOS also brought in an experienced consultant team to help support our staff with this project. “The OCP is one of the most important planning documents for us,” says Tom Siddon, Electoral Area Director for Area “D”, “Not only does it establish policies around development and land use, it will also give direction to other plans, including capital plans, transportation strategies and the like.” The revised plan will maintain the pieces of the old OCP that have worked well, but will address the changes the area has experienced since 1999 and the regional plans that have been developed since then, including the South Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy. A 12 member Citizens’ Committee has been recently established with representatives from area communities to help review materials, provide input, and reach out to the area residents. For more information please contact Tom Siddon, Director, Electoral Area “D” at tsiddon@rdos.bc.ca or 250.809.2548. You can also visit the RDOS website at www.rdos.bc.ca, visit the project website at www.D-1update.ca, or contact Evelyn Riechert at the RDOS at eriechert@rdos.bc.ca or 250.490.4204.
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.
Page 18
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Apex Fire Brigade Update
with Mike Polywkan, Apex Fire Brigade Chief Many people may not know, unless you are a Firefighter, that the Fire Commissioners’ Office of British Columbia has made some major changes. They are imposing rules and regulations that will affect volunteer departments in the entire province. The key changes are centred on liability and training. We are unsure how this will affect our brigade society at this time, but we are looking into it. I became aware of these changes in the lead up to the RDOS’s Regional Fire Chiefs Meeting. I can tell you that most of the better established departments are resigned to the fact that they would have to do a lot more work to comply with the new regulations, but will manage. The departments that are less established are a more worried. And, for the four or five departments like ours, are struggling to understand how this could possibly even apply. We held an emergency meeting on Tuesday, January 20th to inform our membership of the changes and to talk about how to go about investigating and researching our options. We will try to contact the other small departments like ours to see if they have any insight on how to manage the situation. I think that if the small departments across the Province work together, we can find a reasonable resolution. We are small, but we are no less important to our communities. And together, we have the numbers and support to make sure that we can continue to help our communities in the ways that we have in the past and are capable of in the future. This may come down to a fight and a lot of letter writing. We may need you to help us have a voice big enough to be heard. Please keep following us in Apex Matters and when we find out what needs to be done we will let you know in this publication. We started The Apex Fire Brigade for each other and our community for like our slogan says, “Families Helping Families”. Never did we think that the politics of the whole thing would come to put us in this position. We know we have always had your quiet support. Let us be ready to show it, if and when we need it.
Linda Larson, MLA
~ Boundary-Similkameen 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 Safety Tip ~ The safety tip for this issue is all about helping emergency services find you. We respond “Code 3” (lights and sirens), because it is important to get you the help you need quickly. We can’t arrive “Code 3” of course, because we don’t have the equipment. Our response time; however, is very fast, because we don’t have equipment. We don’t have to go to a fire hall and get a truck first. But, in those modern trucks is GPS (or mapping systems) to help them find the house or area they are responding to. We have to rely on addresses given by dispatch. Address signs have to be very visible in the dark; have to be easily seen from the road; and, have to be visible above the snow in the winter. Since, we have been asking the community to do this, I have seen many address signs go up. Thank you! It is very frustrating to get to the general area fast and then have trouble finding the exact location. Good News: We have found a supplier for those high visibility green and white address signs that you may have seen. We are going to use the sale of these signs as a bit of a fundraiser as well. So, if you need one at Apex, as well as home, we can help. If your neighbour in town would like one, we can help them too. The larger the order we make, the lower the price will be. I believe that the cost will come in Address Signs Fundraiser somewhere around the $30 - $35 mark. This is a really reasonable! Price out your alternatives and I will still say that these signs will be more visible. To place your order, please contact: Andy Cumming at 250.462.2533 or any one of us Brigade Members and we can forward it to Andy. You can also shoot me an email at mikepolywkan@live.ca. Have a safe and fun ski season!
The Apex Fire Brigade At Your Service!
Looking To BUiLD A CUSToM HoME?
Contact Nicola Nuttgens for your free consultation. 800-663-2558 x116 • 250-488-9541 nnuttgens@linwoodhomes.com
We may be small, but we fight big!
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Page 19
Socrates and Skiing By Vince Rabbitte, Ski School Emeritus The noblest of all studies is the study of what man is; and what he should pursue. ~ Gorgias
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Ignorance to Socrates was not a lack of information, but rather a lack of wisdom. The perennial problem of man has been “what am I; and why am I here?" This is of course the beginning of philosophy and philosophical thinking, but many people have different opinions on these two questions. Socrates seems to have been a very strong and healthy individual: in winter and summer he wore the same light clothing. He delighted in going to the gymnasium, meeting people in the market place, or academics at the Academy. Later Socrates ran into trouble with the Thirty Tyrants who dominated the economic and social structure of Athens. He sought many answers to his difficult questions. Then he was accused of corrupting youth. Socrates believed there was one God, rather than many. He also stated that the soul purged of its sins was destined for immortality. His student followers loved his ideas and his thinking, but the Tyrants by a vote of 280 to 220 condemned him to death. Socrates in the purity of his thinking believed that he had no right to challenge the ordinances and laws of the state. His thoughts were of justice first and how it was administered. He would therefore drink the poisonous hemlock without more challenges to the law at the appointed time. Reality to Socrates was the Consciousness that flows through the mind. He also laid the foundation of the “Science of conduct and the universal conscience carried weight and authority.” In what way would the philosophy of Socrates influence present day skiers.? The key element to the whole of life is balance and our coaches understand how important balance is in competitive skiing. The Latin statement of “aequam servare mentum", meaning preserve the quiet mind before the race begins is of great importance to the athlete. A coach should also give advice in a brief reassuring pleasant manner. This will increase the will to win. Happy 88th Birthday to Vince! You're an inspiration to us all!
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Page 20
Early February 2015
How To Master Organization With Your Free “Personal Assistant”
By Ryan Oickle, Peach City Massage In January 2014, I decided I needed a better way of getting organized. In many ways, last year was my most productive and organized yet. Let’s break down how Google Calendar can be your very own personal assistant: • Reminders: Though this is far from a new concept, Google Calendar allows you to customize when and if you receive reminders for the “events” you’ve entered. Personally, I use both “pop-ups” (phone, tablet, desktop) and emails. For example, your relatives are coming to town on July 5th, 2015. You can set that event for the 5th, then choose to receive an email reminder, such as 7 days before, followed a pop-up 12 hours before. • Where: You can then have the option to choose the location, then sync up to Google Maps. This means if you’re going to an event at the community centre, but need directions, you’ll receive a reminder and can navigate there on your phone with the Maps app. • Repeat: This is one of my favourite features. It can be daily, weekly, yearly or anything in between. Simply input your important Birthdays to remember, for example, set it to repeat yearly on that date, and add a notification a week ahead of time to buy a gift for them! Another way I use the repeat function is for garbage day. I have bi-weekly reminders on Sunday afternoon that alternate between “recycling” & “yard waste” to be picked up Monday morning. • Details: There are some other very useful details you can include in your event such as colour coding, so it’s easy to sort through at a glance, invite guests to events via email, or add a description. You can even invite others to view or modify the calendar, which we used as the booking tool in the West Kelowna Massage Clinic I once worked at. Peach City Massage offers portable massage at Apex, Penticton and surrounding areas, as well as in-studio massage in Penticton. Visit www.PeachCityMassage.com for details. And finally, take the guesswork out of your diet and work with a Registered Holistic Nutritionist in Penticton or online. Visit www.HolisticHealthInBalance.com or call 250.462.9786.
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ApexMatters.com
The Electromagnetic Age A Sleeping Giant??
Alzheimer’s, sleep disturbances, cognitive disorders, dementia, male infertility, immune dysfunction, brain tumors, childhood learning impairments - all linked by scientific studies to Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs). The World Health Organization has classified EMF producing wireless devices as possibly cancer-causing. Dr. Malcolm Paterson, PhD, a world-renowned cancer researcher now living in our district, will present on the health-related science of wireless devices including smart meters. A Fortis representative and other informed speakers are invited. Area D Director Tom Siddon will moderate. Dr. Malcolm Paterson Learn the science-based facts and what you can do to protect your and your families’ health. Join Our Informative Community Meeting Saturday, February 21st 9:30-12:30 Kaleden Hall 320 Lakehill Road in Kaleden
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
Fresh BC Talent Quest Season 3 - Starts April 2015
We are looking forward to a great 3rd Talent Quest Season and new workshops have been added. All forms of entertainment and skill levels welcomed. Registration starts now in the following group categories. Our confirmed show dates and host venues are as follows: Opus Bistro Café (Venue Sponsor) - Located in the Cannery Trade Centre at Duncan Ave & Fairview Rd • Saturday, April 11th ~ Group A (9-13 yrs) • Saturday, April 18th ~ Group B (14-18 yrs) • Saturday, April 25th ~ Group C (duo’s up to groups - max 6 persons per group / mixed ages) Semi-Finals & Finals at Orchard House (New Venue Sponsor) - Located at 157 Orchard Ave & Martin St • Semi-Finals - Saturday, May 2 • Show FINALS - Saturday, May 9 Performers register online at www.freshbctalent.com. Registration fees include the new Performer’s Workshops. Registration cut off date is February 22, 2015. Presenting New & Exciting Performers & Parents Workshops: Workshops are a great opportunity for all young performers to gain valuable coaching technique’s in voice, singing, stage, speaking, dance, band, performance skills, etc. We look forward to our Professional entertainers and Workshop Presenters from Vancouver, Kelowna and Penticton. Workshops to be held at Even Dance Studio located at The Cannery #221 on Duncan Ave & Fairview Rd Performers Only Workshop: Sun, March 1 (9:30am - 5pm) Performers Only Workshop: Sat, March 7 (1:30pm - 5pm) Workshop breaks include refreshments & snacks. Everyone on their own for the 1 hr lunch break during the March 1 workshop. Parents Workshop & Presentation: Sat, March 7 The Parents Workshop will support parents who may not know “what to do next” should their child gain attention or music career opportunities. Parents need to know how to protect their child’s future in the music industry! A $10 fee is payable at workshop. Refreshments & snacks provided during breaks. More details on website. Thanks and your support is appreciated. Denis Chaykowski, Fresh BC Talent Quest, SEASON 3 - 2015 www.cmeliveproductions.com // 250 460 2221
Tunes to Turn to ... Jay’s Pick This Issue: Artist: Mother Mother Album: The Sticks Track: “Let’s fall in love”
I thought this would be a fitting tune for this issue with Valentine’s Day coming up. I have had this band in a past issue, as you may remember. I just really like this group. Enjoy February 14th with the one you love, and maybe a beer at Brewski up at Apex. Cheers! Ski you later ... 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 whatever he finds to share. YouTube his tunes and join in.
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Penticton Pump Service 250-328-9070 Pool
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Water Feature
Irrigation
Patrick (Joe) George Electric Motor & Pump Repair Free Pick-up & Delivery!
pentictonpumpservice@gmail.com
our focus is your ride
GET FAT this Winter!
533 Main street Penticton, B.c.
PH: 250-493-0686 freedombikeshop.com
Over 50 years in Business!
Jeff & Jennifer Van Os
250-492-8315 apexskishop@yahoo.ca 1055 Westminster Ave. W.
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Early February 2015
ApexMatters.com
If you wear a jacket to stay warm, why not wear a helmet to stay safe!
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
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 12.
CatMatch My Name is Molly I grew up in a large family where necessities of life were hard to come by. I had to share everything with Aunts, Uncles, even Cousins! I have done all the hard work to raise myself up to the point where I feel I have a lot to offer, specifically love and affection. Looking for someone who will appreciate my past and work with me to ensure I never have to feel fear, hunger or pain again. www.AlleyCATSAlliance.org
"Nickel Plate Morning" ~ Photo by Leigh Trussler
ad sponsored by
Jardin Estate Jewelry & Antiques Recycling the Elegance of the Past 5221 Hwy 97 Okanagan Falls
250.497.6733
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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. Š 2015 Okanagan Matters Publications.
ApexMatters.com
Early February 2015
FOOTWORKS OKANAGAN VALLEY
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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
Answer key on page 12.
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Early February 2015
ApexMatters.com
Apex Matters Photo Gallery - Full page each issue Courtesy of Shaun Kennedy ~ 250.487.1368 ~ www.MomentsUnderFrame.com