Apex Matters March 2024

“Keeping You in the S’know”

Aaron Galvin enjoying fresh powder on the Chute ~ Photo by preservedlight.com

Thank You Apex Community!

By Myleen Mallach, Owner/Publisher of Apex Matters

While I always find it sad to leave Apex at the end of the season, I am definitely going to ensure that my last run starts with a pause on top ... reflecting on this season’s highlights, remembering those who have gone to ‘The Heavens’, soaking in the vista views, and looking forward to more great times at Apex next winter.

There are a lots of updates that happen year round on Facebook, so join in the conversation of those you want to follow. Best page to get it all is the “Apex Mountain Resort Official Facebook Group”. Thank you to all the businesses that supported Apex Matters by purchasing advertising space this season. Without your monetary support, there wouldn’t be an Apex Matters publication. Thank you to all the content contributors. We appreciated reading your updates, seeing your photos, and following your journeys you shared. And finally, a huge thank you to you the dear reader, who faithfully picked up a copy and read this grassroots snow culture newsletter from cover to cover. You are our true inspiration for “Keeping You in the S’know”. Watch for our return in September!

Published

Apex Mountain Resort

March Special Events:

March 16 ~ Retro Day - Throw it back in your best Retro suit. Mullets and uorescent suits encouraged!

March 17 ~ St. Paddy’s Day - The Apex Leprechaun will be skiing around Apex. If you can catch him, you will get a chocolate coin!

March 23 ~ Beach Day at Apex Mountain Resort - Wear your best beach attire and hit the slopes for some spring skiing! The Gunbarrel is also hosting a DJ Patio Party from 2-5 pm and a ‘Winter Bod’ Mr Muscle & Bikini Contest at 7 pm!

March 30 ~ Dummy Downhill - This is the highest ying dummy downhill in the World! Dummy’s will be ying o our aerial site at 1 pm. Build a dummy and get involved in the action. Dummy’s can be a max weight of 250 lbs. FREE to enter!

March 30 ~ Mardi Gras Theme - Wear your traditional Carnival colours and beads and hit the slopes!

March 31 ~ Easter Sunday - Join us for an Easter Egg Hunt on the mountain. The Easter Bunny will be hiding eggs on the blue and green runs. If you nd one, bring it into the Apex main o ce to claim some Easter treats.

April 1st ~ This is the Last Day of Operations for the Season - Thanks for having fun with us this winter and we hope you have a great summer!

1.877.777.2739 | ApexResort.com

Spring Break Hours of Opertation:

• March 16-23 - The tube park is open 10 am - 9 pm every day. Lift Operations 9 am - 3:30 pm. Night operations every night 4-9 pm. March 23 will be the last night of night operations for the season.

• March 24 - April 1 - The tube park will be open daily from 10 am - 3 pm. Lift operations 9 am - 3:30 pm.

Skating Loop & Skating Rink ~ Open daily at 9am. Loop night lit until 10pm. Both ice surfaces are weather dependent.

Snow Bus ~ Runs every Saturday & Sunday, plus Holidays & Spring Break. Starts December 16, 2023. Visit doublediamondtours.ca for info.

Featuring ~ 85 Runs | 4 Terrain Parks

2000 Vertical Feet | 1112 Skiable Acres

16% Novice | 48% Intermediate |

36% Advanced/Expert | 20 Feet of Cumulative Annual Snowfall

Penticton Sno-Trackers Club

By Simone Wyles, Director at Large

The Penticton Sno-Trackers have prided themselves into being proactive in regard to other backcountry users in the Apex area. Unfortunately, it only takes a few bad apples to disregard the hard work that Nickle Plate Nordic Centre puts into grooming their trail system.

It has also been reported that these individuals are disrespectful when confronted with their misdeeds.

When brought to our attention, the Penticton Sno-Trackers will speak out against the offensive behaviour of the snowmobilers publicly. As most residents and longtime visitors of Apex know, our members would never be involved in trespassing into other backcountry user territory and we strongly advocate for our fellow backcountry users.

Unfortunately, it still doesn’t stop the well meaning citizens from contacting our club and reporting about ‘unsafe procedures’ that they feel our club is responsible for.

Just because there are snowmobilers around Apex, does not mean that they are associated with our club. We do our best to educate the community on safe sledding practices; however, at the end of the day, we are not the snowmobile patrol and/or security for the mountain.

If you witness a snowmobile in an area it should not be in, or being operated in a reckless manner, please take the registration number from the owners decal that should be affixed on the side of the cowl of the snowmobile. All owner/operators need to carry an owners certificate that have matching numbers. This can identify the wrongdoer.

In more exciting news, we are proud to announce that the Penticton Sno-Trackers have recently installed some new signage to help keep sledders on track. (See graphic image below.) As well, we have some great new signboards in our parking lot. The Penticton Sno-Trackers are very grateful to Jafa Signs for generously donating an “ARE YOU BEEPING” sign for our avalanche beacon checkpoint. This will be found at the Penticton Sno-Trackers parking lot/trailhead, which is located past the Nickle Plate Nordic Centre at km 20 on the Nickle Plate Road.

The Penticton Sno-Trackers will forever be grateful for the support of Jafa Signs. You guys are the best!

LAST DAY OF OPERATIONS

March 24, 2024

Thanks for your support this season!

Nickel Plate Nordic Centre Update

By Kevin Dyck, Marketing & Communications Manager

Sadly, another great season at Nickel Plate Nordic Centre is nearing its end! Where did the time go?

First off, let’s talk about the stars of the show: our incredible volunteers. These folks are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs like a well-oiled machine. From finding Santa to bringing in firewood, they’re the backbone of our operation. So, to all the volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to make this season a success, a massive THANK YOU!

You’re the real MVPs, and we couldn’t have done it without you. Now, onto the highlights reel! One of the biggest wins of the season was undoubtedly the return of our social events. Whether it was the “Ski with Santa” or the “Full Moon Potlucks”, these gatherings brought our community together in the best way possible. Laughter, camaraderie, and maybe a little friendly competition on the trailsthat’s what it’s all about! Here’s to many more memorable moments in the seasons to come.

Special mention is also required to celebrate our School Program this year. We saw the most schools and students than we ever have, and our instructors and program coordinator were the best of the best. Personally, I’ve never heard so much acclaim from students (“BEST FIELD TRIP EVER!”), while I’m tucked away in the office, and the positive response from teachers was on the same level. Desirea, Justene, Janelle, Ronnie, Kevin, Ralph, Alex, Mark, Arnd and Sheila, you folks rock!

Of course, none of this would have been possible without our dedicated members and visitors. Your enthusiasm and passion for Nordic skiing are truly infectious, and it’s what makes Nickel Plate feel like home. From seasoned vets to first-time skiers, each and every one of you played a part in making this year one for the books. So, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you for choosing Nickel Plate as your winter escape. We’re beyond grateful for your support and can’t wait to welcome you back next season. Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the challenges we faced along the way. Like any journey worth taking, this season had its fair share of bumps in the road. Unpredictable weather patterns took their toll on the ski industry worldwide, we had to adapt and roll with the punches. But through it all, our community remained resilient and unwavering in our commitment to keeping the Nordic spirit alive. So, here’s to embracing the challenges, learning from them, and emerging stronger on the other side. Looking ahead, we’re filled with excitement for what the future holds. And speaking of the future, we’re thrilled to announce that Tricia will be returning to the helm as GM next season! Her passion for Nordic skiing and dedication to our community are truly unmatched, and we couldn’t be happier to have her back in the driver’s seat. So, here’s to another season of snowy adventures, unforgettable memories, and endless possibilities. We can’t wait to see you on the trails!

The 2023/2024 season at Nickel Plate Nordic Centre was a whirlwind of ups and downs, but through it all, our community stood strong. To our volunteers, members, visitors, staff and everyone who played a part in making this season one to remember - thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Here’s to the memories we’ve made, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the adventures that lie ahead. Until next season, ski on, friends!

What’s Happening At The Edge?

By Colin Mottershead, aka “Cheffy”

The Edge will be open 7 am - 9 pm from March 15-23. Swing by for a warm hot chocolate or cinnamon bun over the Spring Break. If you don’t feel like cooking, simply order a pizza online and pop down to pick it up at your convenience. With 12 different pizzas to choose from, including gluten free and vegan options, you won’t be disappointed.

As spring approaches, be on the lookout for the famous Edge BBQ’s taking place by the take out window patio. If you smell the caramelized onions when you ski by ... you know its happening! Follow our Facebook page to find out what days we are grillin’ up a storm.

The “Where in the World is your Edge Toque” contest has been super fun and we’ve had so many great submissions! We’ve seen Edge toques in Australia, Utah, PEI, Manning Park, worn while being proposed to and even riding a mechanical bull! Just to name a few. We will be announcing our grand prize winner on our Facebook page, so watch out for that.

The Edge Team would like to thank you all for a great season and your continual support. We wish you all a great summer!

~ Love Cheffy, Leah, Ash, Emma, Colleen, Marleigh, Elise, Chelsea, Dave, Mahkaila and Ance.

A Chip Off The Old Block

By Fred Albrechtson, Nickel Plate Junior Racer Alumni

Wow, crazy to think that it is already March. I’m not really sure where February went, I mean, we even had an extra day. My last races were the Alberta Cups held early in February. Since then, we have been putting in some work in preparation for the 2024 National Championships.

From February 9-13, the World Cup was in Canmore. I had hoped to be competing in it, but I fell short on one of my days in Mont St. Anne. We still had a great time, having the opportunity to cheer everyone on. It was great watching so many Canadians toe the line (we had up to 12 starters in some events!), but I would’ve loved to have been on that start line as well. Shortly after the World Cup, Canmore received some heart-warming weather, and by heart-warming, I mean that some days it was 10 degrees! Great for our tans, not so much for the snow conditions. Shortly thereafter, the temperature plummeted and we were once again confined to indoor training.

During March 1-3, we had planned to head over to Salmon Arm, to compete in the BC Championship races, but due to the bad roads throughout the Rockies, we ended up staying put. Probably a good call.

Now, we are finalizing our preparations for Nationals. We fly out on March 7 to Ottawa, where snow conditions are sub optimal. The coverage is not great, and the organizing committee is continually reviewing the situation, but I know that they will still put on a great event. My only hope is that I will finally get to race in a 50km. Last

now available.

year, the 50km at Nationals was shortened, due to the blizzard and cold weather that Thunder Bay ended up getting. I hope that we get to do that 50km, even if it means 10 laps on a 5km course, or 13 laps of a 3.75km. Nonetheless, I am confident that it will go well. My form has been feeling great lately, and my training has been exceptional. One of my goals is to podium on one of the distance days.

After Nationals, I will get a few days off before hitting the road once again, and this time for Jackson Hole and Sun Valley as part of a BC Team race trip. We have 7 races in 9 days planned. It should be very exciting. After that, I will return and start hashing things out on the tree business side of things before jumping back into another season of training!

A beautiful day for a World Cup in Canmore, Alberta.

Carvers Corner

By Lesley Evans

It is a bit hard to believe that we are already in March, but there is still a lot of action left for the Apex Ski Club. We have continued to enjoy some great training at the hill, hosted a very successful race, and our teams have several competitions left before we wrap up the 2023-24 season.

The Apex Ski Club hosted the Teck Okanagan Zone Race on February 24 and 25. Athletes from Apex, Sun Peaks, Revelstoke, Vernon, and Big White Ski Clubs competed in two days of slalom racing in the U12, U14, and U16 categories. The weekend saw great performances by our athletes, with many top 10 finishes, including a sweep of the podium by our U16 ladies on the Sunday.

The Okanagan Run at Apex Mountain Resort saw additional action as the club opened up the race to accommodate a makeup event for the BC Winter Games skiers. Due to the lack of snow at the Games’ venue, Troll Mountain, BC Alpine looked to other ski hills to provide an alternate option. This event ran in conjunction with the slalom races and these athletes were excited to be able to compete on behalf of their Zones from around the province. The Apex Ski Club would like to extend its appreciation to the parents and coaches who worked to pull off a fun and busy weekend of racing. The club is also grateful to the efforts and support from the staff at Apex Mountain Resort, which helped to ensure a successful event.

March is shaping up to be busy month with some big races on the horizon. First up, the U14 group, along with a few of our U16s, are competing at the Big White Ski Cross Provincials and then they have U14 Provincials, which will be held at Red Mountain. Our U16 skiers are heading off to Western Nationals at Mount Norquay and Lake Louise. From March 19-22, this group will be competing in slalom, giant slalom and super G races with the event wrapping up with team parallel and a skills combine. The U12s will join the two older groups when they all compete at the Zone Finals at Silver Star on the first weekend in April. From these last couple of races, some of our athletes will look to qualify for the Whistler Cup, an international event held the second week of April. So, there is still lots of racing left for the Apex Ski Club!

3-Day Spring Break Camp

March 22, 23 & 24

Runs 9:30-3:00 (Break 12-1) Register through the website above.

Apex Carver Program Starts January 6 - Full Day Saturdays Starts January 7 - Half Day Sundays Runs weekly though March 16 & 17

Our Carver program is winding down, but there are some spaces available in the Spring Break camp. These 3-day camps are the perfect opportunity to get in some extra instruction and develop skills while exploring the mountain. They are a great value, and the kids always have tons of fun. Check out our website for more information (www.apexskiclub.com).

Like many others on the mountain, we were left with a void at the loss of Brian Koenig. The ski club took some time on a recent weekend to hold a ceremony for our members to come together to remember Brian and the joy he brought to not only our club, but the Apex community. We all miss Brian dearly and a plaque in his honour (photo on right by David Warriner) has been made and placed at the club cabin. Thank you to everyone who attended and shared their stories.

As we look to the end of the season, the Apex Ski Club would like to give our appreciation to our sponsors for all of their support this year. Thank you to our Gold Sponsor - Interior Roofing; Silver Sponsors - Ritchie Custom Homes, Gorman Bros. Lumber, Neighbourhood Brewing, and Penticton Collision Centre; and our Bronze Sponsors - IGA Penticton, Betts Electric, Sociale Restaurant, and B&L Electric. We’d also like to thank the Apex Community for their support of our club and racers.

Have a great spring everyone and see you next year!

Photo by David Warriner

On The Hunt For The Crystal Globe

By Reece Howden, Canada Ski Cross & Apex Ski Club Alumni

Well, it’s been a crazy busy race schedule and I’m very happy with my skiing, despite being tired. After my win and 5th place in Alleghe, Italy, I took over the lead in the hunt for the Crystal Globe with 65 points separating me from the veteran Swiss skier Alex Fiva in 2nd place.

Our next stop on the circuit was Bakurani, Georgia for 2 races. Unfortunately, I found the course very challenging! I love the big airs, but the transitions were too small and flat for me and it showed in my results. The weather was super windy and with the challenge of the course, I injured my quad after going over a big air and completely missing the landing and instead landed on the in run to the next jump. Thus, my poor results, placing 17th and 42nd. This dropped me down into 2nd place overall by 1 point. Luckily, we finally got a small break of 10 days in our schedule, which was especially needed for my quad to heal up. Our next races on February 24 and 25, I went in with the mind set of no expectations with bruising still lingering in my leg. We were in Reiteralm, Austria and I had good results on that course in the past. In the 1st race, I ended up making the big final and had my hopes of getting on the podium; however, a small mistake landed me 4th and the following day 11th. Considering the extent of my bruising, I was happy with my results. Once again, I took over the overall lead!

The team headed back home after Austria with the cancellation of a race scheduled in Germany. It was great to get some R&R in on home soil.

With 3 races left in March, I’m excited to finish off strong! Follow me on Facebook for my final results of the session!

Have a great Spring Break with all the needed new snow.

Elevate Your Spring Skiing Experience With Skaha Ski & Board Tuning!

By Sean Vaisler

As the snow begins to soften and the skies clear to that perfect shade of spring blue, there’s no better time than now to ensure your gear is in peak condition for those glorious bluebird days ahead.

At Skaha Ski & Board Tuning, we specialize in getting your skis and snowboards ready for the unique demands of spring skiing. We use the latest techniques to tune your equipment, ensuring maximum performance, safety, and enjoyment on the slopes. Whether you’re carving through the last of the winter’s powder or enjoying the sunny, groomed runs, trust Skaha Ski & Board Tuning to elevate your spring skiing experience.

Come in now to get your skis and boards prepped by the professionals, and make every turn on these beautiful days unforgettable.

Thanks again for your support this season. Have a great summer!

Apex Freestyle Club

For The Kids, The Club and The Community Moguls, Terrain Park, Big Air, All Mountain, and NOW Featuring SNOWBOARDING Competitive & Non-Competitive Programs For ages 6 and up www.freestyleapex.com

By The AFC Team

From Head Coach Rob Kober ~ Mt. Washington’s loss was our gain. A lack of snow temporarily closed the resort and forced the relocation of their BC Freestyle Timber Tour event. The AFC and Apex Mountain Resort stepped up with 2 ideal mogul courses on the March 2-3 weekend, perfect for the kids to hone their competitive skills and showcase their performances.

Though the month was a little hectic and strained our volunteers to the max, February through the March 2-3 weekend was an awesome month full of competition fun!

And now, we are down to the homestretch. Our programs will all wind up for the season this month.

The AFC will be taking a strong contingent to Whistler for the Canadian Junior National Championships March 19-24 followed by BC Champs at Silver Star over the last weekend of March. It’s been a fantastic season of big gains for our teams and we’re hoping to end the season on a high note.

Over the coming days, we’ll also be re-installing our air bag. Our kids will try to expand their limits and learn some new jumps before we go into the off season. The air bag and air site will be big parts of our Spring Break Camps. We still have plenty of space. Check out our website for more information at www.freestyleapex.com.

As the end of our Winter programming approaches, I am already getting excited for our summer season at Covert Farms. We have a fantastic water ramp and trampoline facility half an hour south of Penticton, where many of our AFC kids will spend a lot of time this summer perfecting their skills so that they can safely, reliably take them to snow next November. Learning inverts and more advanced tricks on snow is not as difficult as many assume; however, to do so safely does require a certain minimum commitment of time and effort and we are super fortunate to have access to the necessary facilities to conduct this training.

The progression of learning these skills on the trampoline first, then moving to the water ramp, followed by the air bag in the fall/early winter before trying these skills on snow is the safest and best way to become competent as a young freestyle skier. If this interests you or your kids, watch for more details on our website in the coming weeks or reach out to the club at admin@ freestyleapex.com

Performance Team ~ Four athletes and Head Coach Rob Kober attended a Canada Cup moguls event at Canyon Ski Resort, Red Deer, Alberta. Everyone had great performances and congratulations to Emelie McCaughey on her double podiums in single and dual moguls.

The following weekend Leo Longstreet, Jackson Kendell, Emelie McCaughey, and Francesca Farcau performed forerunner duties at home during the Apex NorAm Moguls event. These athletes crushed their runs and put provincial and national team athletes on notice that they want their spots!

See below for Timber Tour results.

Next up is the Freestyle Canada Junior National Moguls event in Whistler where Brandon VanSchalm, Leo Longstreet, Jackson Kendell, Emelie McCaughey and Francesca Farcau have been invited to represent BC against the best up and coming mogul skiers from across Canada.

An amazing winter season of growth and development is soon coming to an end. The Performance Team and their coaches will take the month of April off to rest and recharge and will be back at Covert Farms in Oliver for summer trampoline and water ramp training from May through October.

For more information on our high performance program including summer training opportunities, contact Head Coach Rob Kober rob@freestyleapex.com.

Okanagan Freestyle Cup February 10-11 ~

Working with the other Okanagan non-profit clubs, we hosted the first event of what we hope to make an annual, regional series. These events are intended as a fun, no pressure introduction to competition and geared towards athletes aged 6-14. We are super stoked on our moguls event conducted on the Andi’s Alley junior course and delighted that many of our young athletes entered competition for the first time. Watch for this event and series to grow over the next few years!

Timber Tour Apex Moguls March 1-3 ~ When Mother Nature threw a wrench in Mt. Washington’s plans to host a Timber Tour, Apex Freestyle Club and Apex Mountain Resort stepped in to ensure that athletes aged 8-17 had the opportunity to compete on the best mogul courses possible. It was an amazing event with kids competing side by side on both our junior and senior courses. Sun Peaks hosted Slopestyle and Big Air events.

Left to right: Leo Longstreet, Emelie McCaughey, Coach Rob Kober, Jackson Kendell, and Milo Davies.

Senior and Junior mogul courses. Photo by MK Capture Photography

TAYLOR MILLER LAW GROUP

Jodie Taylor, Solicitor Don Miller,

Super Youth ~ A handful of athletes entered the competition for the first time. They should be very proud of their achievements and we hope to see them all with bibs on again soon!

Big Air ~ F14 - Lillian McCaughey 1st, Lyla Ritchie 2nd, Charlie Longstreet 3rd. M14 - Holden Duncan 4th and Hunter Hyde 9th.

Slopestyle ~ F14 - Charlie Longstreet 1st, Lillian McCaughey 2nd, Lyla Ritchie 4th. M14 - Holden Duncan 9th and Hunter Hyde 11th. Moguls ~ M14 Hunter Hyde 2nd, Jay Rudyk 4th, and Holden Duncan 6th.

left above:

Timber Tour Apex Single Moguls ~ F14 - Charlie Longstreet 1st, Francesca Farcau 2nd, Lyla Ritchie 5th, and Lillian McCaughey 7th. F16 - Emelie McCaughey 2nd. M16 - Jackson Kendell 1st and Leo Longstreet 2nd. M18 - Brandon VanSchalm 2nd.

Timber Tour Apex Dual Moguls ~ Female - Emelie McCaughey 2nd. Male - Brandon VanSchalm 1st, Leo Longstreet 2nd, and Jackson Kendell

Upcoming Events At Apex Mountain Resort:

March 18 Try Freestyle Day - ski or snowboard

March 19-21 Snowboard Spring Break Camp

March 19-21 Ski Spring Break Camp #1

March 26-28 Ski Spring Break Camp #2

Apex Freestyle Snowboard Club Program Director Josh Shulman ~ Welcome to March. The days are longer, the snow has stacked up and in the snowboard community, it is event season. Our crew attended the BC SNOWBOARD Slopestyle event at Silver Star Resort. And well, to describe our weekend, I am going to borrow a quote from coach Jay Tost ... “Weeeehooooo!” We had 6 stellar shredders attend the 2 events and we snagged 10 medals! Count ‘em ... TEN MEDALS! Huge congrats to all of our athletes who competed hard all weekend. There were 4 separate events held over 2 days in Silver Star’s amazing parks.

Jaxon Ede and Nathan Hamm took on the main event hitting the large features and going up against a huge field of kids from all over the province. Nathan had an amazing showing for his first Slopestyle event with our club and Jaxon finished as the highest scoring 11 year old in the province. Nice work fellas!

The other 4 athletes from our club participated in the GROM event that took place in the MD park. Our club cleaned house in this one with a bunch of medals! Breckin Willment won 4 medals. Stone Shulman won 2 medals. Max Hodges won 2 medals. Chase Griesbretch won 2 medals on Sunday, after sending it big time in the main event on Saturday.

Needless to say, all of our coaches and parents are incredibly pumped up and proud of all of our athletes!! Personally, I feel so proud of the efforts I saw our athletes put in and I am so stoked for the future of our young snowboard club. I want to send out a massive thank you to everyone who has supported us and helped our kids and our club get to where we are today. The future is bright!

Our season is not done yet! We have a crew heading to the Rattlecat Cup in Rossland March 9-10. Slackcountry Cup happens March 16-17 at Mt. Baldy and you will find some of us there. And, the Neil Edgeworth takes place at Big White March 30th weekend and you can bet we will be there too!

Thanks for an incredible season Apex peeps!

Online Auction ~ It’s time! Get ready to bid and win amazing prizes at our exciting Online Auction, which will be open from March 17 to April 1, 2024. Visit galabid.com/afc2024 to register for free. All proceeds will directly benefit the Apex Freestyle Club. Spread the word and share this exciting opportunity with your friends and family.

On

Apex Podium Sweep in F14 Big Air! (L-R) Lyla Ritchie, Lillian McCaughey, and Charlie Longstreet. On right above: Hunter Hyde Moguls 2nd.

3rd.

On left above: (L-R) Francesca Farcau 2nd and Charlie Longstreet 1st. On right above: (Pictured Left) Emelie McCaughey 2nd both Single and Dual Moguls.

Apex Podium sweep in Dual Moguls! (L-R) Leo Longstreet, Brandon VanSchalm, and Jackson Kendell.

The next Timber Tour/Super Youth event will be held at Silver Star on March 28-31.

KR Academy March Update

By Kristi Richards

The season has stacked up for our Academy athletes this season, with athletes from all stages and ages competing across the country in various ski and snowboard events from Regional and Club events, to Provincials, Canada Cups and NorAms. Our small but mighty team of athletes, parents, sponsors and coaches have made a huge positive impact this season, with a lot of growth and diverse experiences in our training camps and competitions. Apex has been the training home-base for the Academy training programs over the winter, with specialty camps hosted at our neighbouring resorts like Sun Peaks, Mt. Baldy and Silver Star. As we say goodbye to winter, and start planning off-season training, we will transition the majority of training to Whistler, with some training camps overseas to chase the snow. We are so grateful and fortunate to have a winter home-base at Apex, which is the hometown resort of director and 2X Olympian, Kristi Richards. Apex Mountain Resort is one of the most supportive hills in the world for freestyle skiing, which was apparent this season in the hosting of 4 Freestyle events, ranging from the Apex Classic FIS event (Canadian Selections), the NorAm event in February, as well as a first ever Okanagan Regional Event, and a BC Provincial TimberTour and SuperYouth Competition. It was a big year for the organizing committees, volunteers, coaches and athletes from both the Apex Freestyle Club and KR Academy. The huge collaborations and efforts from the SnowSports community and host resorts give these athletes the platforms they need to learn, grow, experience and succeed in their sports. We would like to make some stand out acknowledgments to our Academy athletes, for putting their best efforts forward as they learn the ropes of competitions, mental performance, and accessing and delivering their highest skills on demand, regardless of any adversity.

KR Academy February/March Results:

Okanagan Freestyle Cup Moguls ~ Jaedah Yellowbird - 4th - M12; Henry Stefanski - 1st - M10; Isla Stefanski - 2nd - F10; Hanna Gingras - 2nd - F12; Ella Gingras - 3rd - F14; and Ariana Kaisaris - 1st - F12.

Fernie IFSA Junior Freeride Event ~ Eliza Walker - 1st and George Walker - 7th.

Canada Cup Moguls - Canyon Resort, Red Deer ~ Makena Colenutt - 7th; Michael Smith - 7th; and Talance Kalmakoff - 10th.

NorAm Results from Deer Valley, Apex, Val St Come, Stratton ~ Alex Luca - 49, 57, 50; Lia Matsuda - 35, 45, 30, 38; and Quinn Ridgeway - 38, 43, 25, 25.

BC Timber Tour - Apex - Moguls ~ Ella Gingras - 4th - DM - F14; Ella Gingras - 7th - M - F14; and Noah Little - 7th - M - M14.

BC SuperYouth - Apex - Moguls ~ Jaedah Yellowbird - 3rd - M12; Henry Stefanski - 2nd - M10; Emily Piggin - 1st - F10; Isla Stefanski - 4th - F10; Ariana Kaisaris - 1st - F12; and Hanna Gingras - 1st - F12.

BC SuperYouth - Sun Peaks - Slopestyle ~ Emily Piggin - 3rdSlopestyle, F10; Isla Stefanski - 6th - Slopestyle F10; Henry Stefanski - 7th - Slopestyle F10; Hanna Gingras - 3rd - Slopestyle F12; Ariana Kaisaris - 4th - Slopestyle F12; and Ella Gingras - 5th - Slopestyle F14.

BC SuperYouth - Sun Peaks - Big Air ~ Henry Stefanski - 8th - M10 Isla Stefanski - 2nd - F10; Emily Piggin - 6th - F10; Hanna Gingras - 3rd - F12; Ariana Kaisairis - 4th - F12; and Ella Gingras - 4thF14.

Alberta Provincials - Canyon Resort, Moguls ~ Makena Colenutt1st; Talance Kalmakoff - 2nd; and Michael Smith - injured.

We have several members that have qualified for Jr Nationals, which will be held in Whistler from March 21-24. Congratulations to Ella Gingras, Noah Little, Lia Matsuda, Quinn Ridgeway and Talance Kalmakoff. We will be cheering for you!!!

Left - Jr Performance Athletes Ariana Kaisaris and Hanna Gingras, podiums at the Freestyle BC SuperYouth events. Right - 1st place for Emily Piggin, F10 moguls.

Left - 2nd place for Henry Stefanski, M10 SuperYouth Moguls. Right - 3rd place for Jaedah Yellowbird in M12 SuperYouth Moguls.

Jr Performance Team at the Freestyle BC Timber Tour and SuperYouth Event at Apex. Coaches in back L-R: Kristi Richards, Tyler Christian and Patrick Farcau.

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Our Snowboard Program has been diverse and exciting, with the strong leadership from Jessie Broster, who has designed specialty snowboard camps and programs to work with athletes across the Province to bring them to the next level in both Style and Speed. She has brought in Olympic Gold Medallist Ross Rebagliati for an Alpine Snowboard carving camp in February. The athletes had the privilege of learning from the best and being inspired by success stories from an Olympic legend. Tess Critchlow joined the roster of Olympian coach appearances at our Mt. Baldy Camp mid-February to work directly with our groms and gals in the discipline of SnowboardCross. We are so fortunate to have access to this level of coaches, with Olympic experience to give back and inspire. Be on the watch out for our STYLE Snowboard Camp running at Silver Star Mountain on March 20

2 X Olympian and Guest Coach, Tess Critchlow

Ski Spring Camps ~ Current members and guests are invited to these camps! Visit www.kracademy.club for more information. Silver Star - March 19-20 ~ This slopestyle and big air focus camp will include some airtime at the Silver Star airbag, and a chance to ride their park and features with one of our Jr Performance Coaches. Ages 9+.

Apex - March 19-20 ~ Freestyle Groms having some fun in the sun, with spring conditions, smiles and an all around freestyle approach for moguls, slopestyle, rail features and big mountain. Ages 6+.

Do you need to report a road condition or incident?

There are three di erent ways to contact us!

1) Call the AIM Roads toll free number 24/7 at 1-866-222-4204

2) Email AIM Roads at aimcommunications.ca@acciona.com

3) Complete a Service Request Form online at www.aim-roads.ca

Thank you to all of our supporters from the 2024 season, as we can’t do it without you!

Elevated Beverages ~ This is a beverage line co-produced by KR Academy and Big White Water, with recipe input and development from Olympic athletes and Holistic Nutritionists to provide healthy options that are purpose driven. These products are also charitable by design, with a percentage of proceeds going directly back into sport programs.

Business Finders ~ Business finders has been supporters of KR Academy since day one, and has seen the vision and impact of having Olympians give back in the most tangible way ... By directly imparting their knowledge and experience through coaching! Business finders has assisted in finding Clubhouse space and working to develop the business behind the Academy.

Tantalus Lodge ~Tantalus Lodge is located in Whistler and serves as the KR Academy home-base, while training and competing there. They assist in creating an affordable option for athletes to train and stay in Whistler.

Greyback Construction ~ Greyback is a company that is family owned and operated, with a few generations deep in freestyle families in the Okanagan. Their families were some of the original founders to the Apex Freestyle Club, and are now great supporters and recipients of strong, positive and high level programs for their own kids and families.

Apex Mountain Shop ~ Apex Mountain Shop is the ‘go to’ spot for our Academy athletes for the best gear and equipment servicing around. Thank you for always taking care of our athletes.

Omega Communications ~ Thank you for providing great radio equipment for coach/athlete communications on hill!

Stoko ~ An innovative and industry leading flexible knee brace option to keep us playing and supported.

Virtika ~ Outfitting the KR Academy athletes, parents and coaches since the start! Keeping us looking good, dry, and warm.

Apex Mountain Resort ~ Thank you for providing the best facilities in the world and for supporting the dream of Olympianled programming combined with Academics and Sport Sciences. It’s what our sport needs and we could not do it without your hometown support.

Freestyle BC and Freestyle Canada ~ Thank you for opening your doors to allow a sanctioned platform for a new concept of an Academy-based SnowSports Club in Canada. It fills a need in our sport systems and allows athletes to access high level coaching and year-round programming without sacrificing the needed time and intricate scheduling for school, sport practices and competitions and sport sciences.

Our Coaches Are The Heartbeat Of Our Academy ~ It is through their vision, knowledge, experience and expertise that we can create the best programs in the world, with a fun and welcoming culture.

THANK YOU Kristi Richards, Cole Patton, Tyler Christian, Patrick Farcau, Alexandria Koturbash, Rylan Koturbash, Melisa Urton, Mike Richards, Jessie Broster, Ross Rebagliati, Tess Critchlow, Reece Walgren, Dominique Sauza, Sierra Kalmakoff, and Kye Guembes.

Performance Athlete Quinn Ridgeway at Apex NorAm

Left

Performance Athlete Lia Matsuda with Elevated Beverages Electrolyte water at the Apex NorAm. Right - Makena Colenutt (Gold) and Talance Kalmakoff (Silver) at Alberta Provincials.

Hello Apex Community!

By Alec Henderson, Team Canada Freestyle Skier & AFC Alumni

Hope winter has been epic for all of you out there skiing in the Okanagan. This season has been full of ups and downs. The snow has been a struggle everywhere in BC until the end of February. Apex got some nice new snow and we finally got the winter we needed.

My season has been going fantastic so far, travelling to new places with a team I love. In February, I competed in Mammoth Mountain in the Grand Prix. This competition was very difficult. Due to the course conditions, high winds and low visibility, it made for a tough qualifier. I didn’t get through to the final, but I was very close and happy to put a run down.

Coming up will be Tignes, France for Big Air and Slopestyle on March 13-14. Then, straight over to Silvaplana, Switzerland for the year ending Slopestyle on March 22 and 24!

Thank you so much for keeping up and following my skiing. I love this community so much! I will see you guys for the next Apex Matters in the fall!

Stay Up!

Great Season ... Ready For More!

By Grady Parsons, BC Mogul Team Member & AFC Alumni

Hello everyone. I hope you made the most out of your ski season. My first NorAm of the season took place at Apex this year. During the competition, I was feeling confident of my abilities knowing how far I have come from last season. My qualification run started off strong, but I ended up messing up my bottom air trick cork 720 placing me out of the top 30.

After the Apex NorAm, my team flew out to Montreal for the Val Saint Côme NorAm. While training for the comp in Quebec, it was sunny, plus 5˚ and slushy spring like skiing conditions, but the weather took a turn for the worst. Overnight it went from plus 5˚ to negative 20˚, practically turning the course into a hockey rink with how icy it was. It was my first time competing on this course and in these conditions, but while competing there I placed in the top 30. I was very happy with my result with the conditions I was in. After the competition in Val Saint Côme, my team headed off to Stratton Vermont for the last NorAm of the season. I was very excited for this competition, due to me never competing in the USA. This competition was one of the most fun I’ve had this year with the conditions being sunny, warm and slushy. I ended up placing in the top 30 again this competition. I am happy with how this NorAm season ended for me. It was a great learning experience and can’t wait to come back stronger next season.

I’d like to thank my sponsors, Barry Beecroft Fuel Distributors and Jax Mac Foundation, for supporting me through the comp season!

A Glance At Our Night Sky

Do you look up at the night sky and question more than the snow conditions the next day? In this issue, we share a thought provoking article by Ken Tapping, an astronomer with NRC’s Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory in Kaleden.

Avoiding The Fate Of The Dinosaurs

Around 65 million years ago, an asteroid 10-15 km in diameter hit the Earth close to what is now the Yucatan Peninsula. Already stressed ecosystems were devastated, leading to the extinction of 75% of the species living at the time, including the dinosaurs, ammonites, belemnites and others. We now live in a world filled with people, in highly stressed ecosystems. We would be very unlikely to survive a similar impact were it to happen now. Therefore, we are working hard to avoid it. There are telescopes dedicated to detecting potential Earth-threatening asteroids, and programs to estimate whether they are an immediate, or long-term threat, and the probability of an impact. Of course, detection is only part of the solution. If we find a potentially threatening asteroid, what can we do to remove that threat?

Proposed solutions include sending a missile to the object and blowing it up, or finding a way to nudge it onto a different and safer path. A lot depends upon what asteroids are like. Are they rigid lumps of rock, or are they rubble piles just about held together by their weak gravity. This has led to space missions to asteroids to see what they are like, and then, recently, an experiment to see if we could change its orbit enough to avert a hit.

A few close encounters with asteroids by spacecraft suggest most of them are basically loosely consolidated rubble piles. Whether one of these could be diverted into a new orbit using available space technology led to a NASA mission to Dimorphos, an asteroid with a diameter of about 180 m (small, but large enough to do a

lot of damage). This asteroid happened to be orbiting a somewhat larger asteroid, Didymos, with a diameter of around 780 m. The spacecraft, named DART, was intended to smash into Dimorphos and see whether its orbital path was changed by a useful amount. A double asteroid was chosen because the change in their orbits around one another would be far easier to detect, over less time. The spacecraft was launched in November 2021, and hit it head-on in September 2022. The mission was a success in that the orbit was changed by more than expected. However, something else happened; the shape of the asteroid was changed. Dimorphos was a rubble pile, and it is likely that if it were hit harder, it would have come apart. If this were an Earth-threatening asteroid, this could be a disaster. Being shot with a rifle is bad. Being shot by a shotgun is far worse. If a larger rubble pile were heading in our direction, how hard could we hit it in order to change its path without smashing it? Another important consideration is that the spacecraft took close to a year to get to the asteroid. We have to know at least a year in advance in order to act usefully.

The need to apply a push that changes the path enough without smashing the asteroid, together with having enough time to reach it, means we need to identify the threatening asteroids well in advance. That way we can apply a gentler push, or over a longer time. We certainly know how to determine orbits with precision. However, predicting where an asteroid will be in a few years’ time is made harder by the constantly changing gravitational influences of the other planets, especially Jupiter, the largest planet in the Solar System. Small perturbations build up rapidly over time, changing asteroid orbits significantly. On the other hand, we are getting better at it, and spacecraft can be made that can make small navigational changes en route. It is a challenge spotting small, dark objects against a black sky early enough to identify threats and act on them. However the incentive is certainly there.

From The Hill

By Richard Cannings, MP South Okanagan-West Kootenay

Deep Freeze Impacts

I’ve written several times recently about the costs of climate change. Some of those costs are obvious, including the loss of homes, property, and infrastructure due to the increased severity of climate-related events such as wildfires, floods, hurricanes and tornados. Home insurance costs are going up for everybody, because of those events. But one sector that is at a very high risk of impact from climate change often goes under the radar, and that is agriculture. The sector that feeds all of us.

The Canadian prairies have been dealing with drought conditions for the past few years, and last summer saw southern Alberta, Saskatchewan and parts of Manitoba reporting significantly reduced harvests of wheat and other crops, and a lack of feed for cattle impacted the beef sector.

But one of the biggest impacts of extreme weather hit the fruit and wine industries in the Okanagan and other nearby valleys in mid-January. A long, mild fall and early winter had orchard trees and vines with rising sap, ready for spring, and then suddenly the temperature fell more than 20 degrees overnight. In one orchard, the temperature went from +2˚C to -23˚C in 12 hours. This rapid change, from warm, almost spring-like temperatures to record low temperatures overnight, results directly from a warming climate. The polar vortex and mid-latitude Jetstream are driven by the difference in temperature between the Arctic and temperate air masses. When the Arctic warms more rapidly than temperate zones, as is happening with climate change, the linear Jetstream weakens and begins to wander in big loops like a stream traversing a prairie. One loop will bring unusually warm air north, while the neighbouring loop brings frigid polar air southward. So, while climate change is often described as global warming, it can produce extreme temperatures at both ends of the spectrum. Soft fruits and grape vines can’t easily tolerate temperatures below -20C, especially when they occur so rapidly that the plants cannot adequately adapt to the freeze. A recent sampling study throughout the Okanagan found essentially no live buds on grape vines, indicating a complete loss of the 2024 harvest. The direct financial impact of this loss is estimated at $440 million. Fruit growers face similar losses, especially cherry and peach growers. This loss comes on the heels of a similar event in December 2022 that cut the 2023 grape harvest in half. Many wineries were reeling from that event when this freeze came along, and many have no insurance for this type of event.

The wine and orchard sector is a huge part of the economy of the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys. These crop losses will have knock-on effects throughout the region.

There are federal-provincial government assistance programs that can partially compensate for loss of income in farming operations and extraordinary costs that are necessary after a natural disaster. I asked the federal Minister of Agriculture in Question Period last week to take action to help save this industry. I’ve also talked to the provincial Minister of Agriculture to make sure she knows the seriousness of the situation.

Over the next two days (late February), I’ll be meeting with both the fruit growers and the wine makers to discuss ways to get through the immediate financial crisis of a total crop loss, and also what can be done in the long term to make the sector more resilient to these catastrophic events. Because one thing is becoming clearer with every passing season, we are living the effects of climate change and must quickly adapt to them or face serious and often unexpected consequences.

Richard Cannings

Member of Parliament

South Okanagan - West Kootenay

Richard.Cannings@parl.gc.ca

250.770.4480

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From The Director For RDOS Area ‘I’

The RDOS Board of Directors has awarded the build contract to Greyback Construction for the Apex Fire Rescue Hall. The hall is to be built this summer. Many hours of volunteer time have gone into this project by the dedicated department.

If you have any concerns about the road maintenance or wish to bring attention to any repairs needed, please contact AIM roads at 1-866-222-4204 or visit www.aim-roads.ca.

Apex Property Owners Association advocates for community interests on hot topics including mining, logging, education, and community projects. If you are interested in joining the APOA as a member, or perhaps on their board where help is needed, please email them directly at apoaexec@gmail.com.

The Apex Waste Transfer Station has many recycling bins/areas inside the building, along with the general recycling large container for general items. Please follow the signage to keep it clean.

The Apex community follows the RDOS Animal Control Bylaw. Dogs must be kept on leash, licensed and under control when off your property. Cleaning up after dogs is a community expectation as well. For more bylaw information, please visit www.rdos.bc.ca/ development-services/bylaw-enforcement/animal-control. Enjoy the spring skiing and be sure to reach out to me if you need.

Subrina Monteith, Director of RDOS Area ‘I’

Direct: 250.460.0723 | smonteith@rdos.bc.ca | www.rdos.bc.ca

Subrina Monteith Director of RDOS Area “I”

Monthly MLA Report

By Roly Russell, MLA Boundary-Similkameen

Across this beautiful province, local media connects neighbours, brings communities together, and shines light on the local landscape, and to the world beyond. Print, radio, or online: local media serves as a thread to engage and inform us, whether it’s an investigative spotlight on the local healthcare situation, a spotlight on an upcoming art show, or a heartwarming human interest story about the youth leader down the road.

In an era where we’re constantly living in a deluge of easy, fast, and often false information, local media stands as a beacon of both authenticity and local relevance. However, the future of local media appears uncertain, and I hear from owners, editors, and journalists that they are unsure about how local journalism will survive. As the Federal Government and Meta (Facebook) grapple with who should pay for content, local media outlets suffer as collateral damage.

As Quebec University journalism professor Jean-Hughes Roy pointed out, ‘A real-world, newsless Facebook turns out to be more toxic than I had anticipated’. As misinformation and online vitriol proliferates, local media serves as one important tool in the tug-owar for truth, community connection, and transparency. On social media, fake news spreads like wildfire; local media helps dispel myths, debunk rumours, and keeps us grounded in community. Real people in community, asking questions and reporting, helps provide accurate, fact-checked information, and help us stop the flowing tide of misinformation.

My rural MLA colleagues and I are looking for opportunity for action to support the sector. We recently brought together a group of local media leaders from across the province, to hear their thoughts on what we could do to support, while maintaining the vital independence of media.

We heard pleas for continuation and predictability with the Federal government’s ‘Local Journalism Initiative’ (LJI), which we began advocating for. This program supports local coverage of stories in 1,500 underserved communities across Canada (note: last Friday, we saw the Feds agree to a three-year extension to the program, great news!). These independent news outlets also shared many other thoughts, such as the potential benefits of longerterm ad purchasing agreements, ideas about tax credits for the outlets, and potential development of a BC version of the LJI, to name a few. Plenty of potential to explore!

We’re looking forward to a follow-up meeting to further solidify opportunities for BC to help advocate and deliver policies that support independent media and journalistic integrity.

As we navigate the complexities of today’s media environment, let us not forget the essential role that local journalists play for all of us. These people, and these outlets, help us rise above the digital noise curated for us by social media algorithms. Let’s support them by ‘shopping local’, whether it’s subscribing to the local paper (like Apex Matters!), placing ads for our small businesses, tuning in to community radio stations, and engaging with their online platforms. Let’s stand together in support of our local reporters and media, ensuring that we continue to have these beacons of community engagement and awareness around us.

Penticton Professional Fire Fighters who spent time in Victoria in early March meeting with MLAs. Photo courtesy of the Penticton Professional Fire Fighters Facebook page.

Celebrating Pink Shirt Day at the Legislative Assembly on February 28th.

One rewarding aspect of my work as Parliamentary Secretary is to connect with the rural colleges from across BC to identify opportunities to improve how we bring educational opportunities to rural people.

The APOA ... The Heart of the Apex Community!

APOA membership is open to all Apex property and condo owners.

Love your Apex playground? Want to keep it pristine?

Love to use the snowshoe & cross country trails?

Like to drive on safe roads to get to Apex?

Concerned about the status of logging?

Many voices make a strong community. Add your voice and become an APOA member.

Annual Membership ~ $30/year

www.apexpropertyowners.com

E-transfer Available

Apex Community Association Winter Season End Adieu

By Erica Fletcher

I’m sure that I’m the 10th person to say this already in this last issue of Apex Matters, but I can’t really think of another way to start this article, so ... I can’t believe the season is almost over already! It barely feels like it got started and here we are winding down. Wild. Crazy. What?! I don’t think we even got one epic blizzard. Did we?! Time has sped up, I swear.

I went cross-country skiing a lot more this year than I normally do, and honestly, it was really nice. Something magical happens when you get into a great stride, almost like you are connected all the way back to your ancient ancestors who did this exact same sport, albeit for quite different reasons, all winter long.

I’m very grateful that there was enough snow to enjoy our favourite winter sports this season. And since I’m speaking of gratitude, I’d like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who supports the ACA’s events by coming out to them, and to everyone who helps organize and execute them. All of you winter-loving folk are amazing. We are happy to host events that bring all of us together. It’s been a great season, despite it going by way too quickly, and the smallish amount of snow we were given (I don’t want to be too critical of the snow we were gifted, as it definitely could have been a lot worse!).

Upcoming this month, we are co-hosting a “Societies Social” event with the APOA. Join us in the Gunbarrel Dining Room on Saturday, March 23rd from 3-6 pm. There will be appetizers, mingling, etc. It’s a chance to get to know some of the people behind Apex’s clubs and societies. If you are a member of an Apex club or group and want to be a part of this event, please contact us by email to apexcommunityassociation@gmail.com. Hope to see you there!

Lastly, a reminder that the ACA has a trail building tool library. This spring and summer if you are in need of some trail tools, please let us know and we’re happy to loan those out. Contact us by email at apexcommunityassociation@gmail.com to take part in this great community sharing initiative.

Enjoy these last few weeks of shredding the slopes everyone! Have a wonderful ‘off’ season and we’ll see you at our next event. Follow our Facebook page or check out the community bulletin board in the village for updates from us.

APOA Annual General Meeting

By the APOA Board

The APOA will be holding our Annual General Meeting on Saturday, March 23 at 3:30 pm in the Gunbarrel Dining Room We will also be co-hosting a “Societies Social” with the Apex Community Association in the same location from 3-6 pm.

All members are encouraged to attend and hear about what is happening with the APOA. We are hoping James Shalman will be present to give us an overview of the resort’s operation and tell us about what he has planned for the coming year. We also hope to hear from Subrina Monteith, our RDOS Area “I” Director.

So all Apex property owners, mark that day on your calendar, we hope to see you there. There will also be an opportunity at the meeting to join or renew your membership, as well as mingle amongst the various groups and societies at Apex.

Apex

Mountain Resort would like to remind local residents and visitors alike that water conservation is extremely important all year round! 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 water when you can.

1.877.777.2739 |

Apex Mountain Village in the Distance ~ Photo by Leigh Trusler Photography

Apex Volunteer Fire Rescue And Apex Fire Brigade Society Spring Update

By Dave Stigant and Molly Raine

Greetings to the Apex community of residents and weekend warriors on the slopes. The Apex Fire Brigade Society (AFBS) and the Apex Volunteer Fire Rescue (AVFR) have several updates regarding the AVFR and the work that AFBS is undertaking to support AVFR.

First of all, we would like to thank Highway 97 Brewery and the Gunbarrel Saloon for their support and hosting of the Highway 97 Brewery “Tap Takeover” fundraiser for the Apex Fire Brigade Society on March 9th. $1 for every pint sold was donated to the AFBS. Thank you to all of those who came out for the festivities, and your continued support for the Apex Fire Brigade Society! Next, we have some exciting organizational changes for AVFR members! Lieutenant Molly Raine has recently accepted an appointment as Deputy Fire Chief and will be transitioning to work with Fire Chief Kelly Johnston in steering the AVFR ship, while Deputy Fire Chief Graeme Lindsay focuses on getting our new fire hall built. Congratulations on your new role Deputy Chief Raine! We’d also like to congratulate Firefighter Vanessa Fox and her promotion to Lieutenant and Assistant Training Officer to Captain/ Training Officer Mike Polywkan. Finally, a warm welcome to recruits Bella, Caillum, Chris, and Norjon. We’re excited to have you on our team and keep up the good work! We also have some big organizational changes with the AFBS. At our recent Annual General Meeting, three new board members joined us to carry on all of the good work that Molly Raine, Mark Rufiange, and Ed Wright had undertaken. Thank you Molly, Mark, and Ed for all of your dedicated work towards supporting the safety of the Apex community, and a warm welcome to our new incoming board members; Jacqueline Foley, Sage Staples, and Glenn Spence. Jaqueline, Sage, and Glenn come with a wealth of experience and knowledge to add to the already highly knowledgeable and capable standing board members John Davis, Dave Stigant, and Colette Stoof, along with the appointed board position for Fire Chief Johnston.

On the equipment front, we’re bolstering up both for the wildfire season and long-term sustainability. Our new (to us) fire engine arrived last week, safe and sound after its long journey from its previous Buffalo Grove, Illinois home. We will transition to the ‘new” fire engine over the next several months as it takes the frontline position, and Timber moves to semi-retirement as our backup engine. We want to thank Buffalo Grove Fire Department Deputy Chief Larry Kane, John and Kiana from SSTI Transport Services, and Noelle, Wayne, and the rest of the RDOS Finance Department for all of their support in making this happen! Similarly, in addition to being responsible for our equipment being in the best operational condition it ever has, Lieutenant Matt Harding has been working tirelessly in coordination with Munckhof Manufacturing in outfitting our F550 to serve dual purpose as a chip truck to support our community FireSmart programs, and as a wildland fire engine so we are better prepared to respond to wildfires locally, and provincially.

We are proud of all of the AVFR members, who are on call 24/7, have been training hard, and have still managed to respond to a record 28 calls over the past year, including 6 powerline down calls, 17 medical, 1 motor vehicle incident, 3 alarm calls, and 1 illegal burning call. Our members also deployed on 4 mutual aid wildfire deployments spanning the Thompson/Okanagan.

After a short forced pause, we have figured out a way to forge a new path, and our new partners, Greyback Construction, and their dedicated team of sub-contractors have expressed their commitment to making phase 1 of the new fire hall a reality. The design and planning are well under way with a phase 1 completion target for late fall 2024. This said, we still have a ways to go. With the increased costs of construction, and inflation seeping into every aspect of costs, we have had to make some significant concessions in ensuring that we can provide a basic structure that meets the minimum standards and health and safety requirements. We are still actively pursuing every avenue for alternative funding to appropriately equip our new fire engine, and complete the firehall to a fully functional stage (phase 2), so we are prepared for the tasks that we are expected to undertake.

The Apex Fire Brigade Society is integral to supporting the AVFR in ensuring fire protection and emergency services in the Apex community are operational and sustainable. Critical Incident Support and FireSmart Neighbourhood Wildfire Risk Reduction are two areas in which the AFBS is heavily engaged. The new AFBS board elected in February is ready to continue collaborative planning and implementing action in partnership with the AVFR.

The ski season is winding down, and the persistent long-term drought coupled with a low snowpack this winter is setting us up for a dry summer. The Apex Fire Brigade Society and Apex Volunteer Fire Rescue are working together to protect Apex users, properties, insurance rates, and protection. We are asking you as a resident, or Apex enthusiast, to join the cause by doing your part in learning about and taking action in a FireSmart community, joining AVFR as a firefighter, the Apex Fire Brigade Society as a Critical Support Unit member, or otherwise contributing to supporting a fire-resilient Apex!

For more information regarding AVFR and the fire department, please email info@apexfirerescue.ca. To learn more about AFBS, please email afbs@shaw.ca.

Our new (to us) AVFR fire engine was delivered to us after its long journey from Buffalo Grove, Illinois.

Meet The Team

Denise Mend, BSc, MBcPT

Denise is physiotherapist who holds Bachelor’s degrees in Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University and Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy from University of British Columbia.

At Simon Fraser University she played varsity basketball and met her husband Paul Mend. After finishing her two degrees, they moved to Naramata, where they raised their now adult children. They enjoy a life lived fully in the mountains skiing, on the lakes paddle boarding and playing beach volleyball in the back yard.

Denise has enjoyed a 30 year career supporting patients across all ages and a wide variety of injuries and issues. She has taken a myriad of post graduate courses and is a life long learner. From sports injuries to vestibular and balance disorders, from postsurgical rehab to complex, persistent issues, Denise has treated them all. She believes in a highly collaborative approach using her patient’s goals as the foundation of treatment plans. A gifted educator, Denise brings a nurturing energy felt by everyone she meets.

Fun tidbits on Denise ... She sings in a large community choir and loves to harmonise; she loves to dance; she has been running with the same group since her children were little, 20 years ago; and she and Paul are thrilled to be welcoming their first grandchild this summer and a new daughter-in-law in the fall.

Matthew (Mateusz) Skaszczyk, Physiotherapist

Matthew completed his Master of Physiotherapy in Poland in 2012 and immigrated to Canada the same year. Matthew was part of the exchange student program throughout his studies, which gave him the opportunity to study in Spain for almost a year. Prior to immigrating to Canada, he also added value to his Physiotherapy practice by completing Musculoskeletal and Neurological courses. Matthew believes that everyone has the ability to improve their current physical situation. He is passionate about helping clients to create and achieve their goals through his treatment plans. Matthew says that his greatest satisfaction is seeing patients reach their full physical potential.

Christine Campbell, BHK, MPT, CAFCI, FCAMPT, Registered Physiotherapist

Christine graduated from the University of British Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in human kinetics in 2007. During this time, she played and captained the varsity women’s field hockey team, as well as represented Canada on the international field hockey stage. Following her pursuit of the Olympics, she then completed a Master of Physiotherapy at the University of British Columbia in 2010. Since graduation, Christine

has pursued many academic postgraduate courses, including acupuncture, dry needling, Pilates and manual therapy. In 2016, she successfully completed her Diploma of Advanced Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy and became a Fellow of the Canadian Association of Manipulative Physical Therapists (FCAMPT). Then in 2023, she began teaching with the Canadian Physiotherapy Association’s Orthopedic division, where she provides continuing education to practicing physiotherapists in manual therapy, exercise prescription and clinical reasoning.

Growing up, Christine was constantly on the move, competing at the elite level in gymnastics and soccer. The exposure to athletics and exercise at an early age has helped to develop a keen interest in sports and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Christine’s approach to physiotherapy is one that focuses on education and collaboration with clients, while incorporating manual therapy techniques with individualized exercise programs to facilitate healing.

When Christine isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children exploring everything the BC outdoors has to offer.

For more information on our physiotherapists available and for their services offered, please visit dalecharlesphysiotherapy.com.

For Sports Clinic Physiotherapy, please call 250-487-1455.

For Dale Charles Physiotherapy, please call 250-493-7343.

Tourism Resiliency

By Lyndie Hill, Hoodoo Adventure Company

Last summer, I was asked to write an article regarding the resiliency in the tourism industry. At the time, I thought about all the challenges that our industry has faced ... natural disasters, a pandemic, struggling economies, etc. How proud we should be if our doors are still open through all that adversity. We clearly have a product that people desire, or none of us would be here after the hits we’ve all taken. We carry a product people have savings accounts for, that people count down days to, that they dream of. We have the pleasure of celebrating successes with you, special moments, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, family time together. We are here to bring joy, make you feel cared for, make your world a better place to be. We rejuvenate the spirit and create lasting memories with friends and families.

There is a reason that global tourism has become the largest industry in the world, with nearly 500 million consumers of tourism services per year spending hundreds of billions of dollars. The industry provides employment to over 100 million people worldwide. What would the world be like without us?

Last season, we were hit by yet another challenge and this winter our agriculture got hit yet again. Disaster after disaster. While it is nothing we haven’t faced before, it is the first time we had all been hit, while still freshly wounded from the last punch. We’re like boxers in a ring taking hit after hit, falling to our knees. Some of us get back up and keep fighting, some tap out but return to the ring because they love it, and some can’t handle the blows and gracefully pass on the gloves, but no one ever closes the ring. This ring is just too valuable. Too many bets have been made, too many dreams lie in that ring. Whether you’re the fighter, the gambler or the spectator, the energy feeds us. We need it.

Here we find our industry again, several rounds in, taking the blows, adjusting our strategies, taking punches to the arms and body, finding our next “rope-a-dope” strategy. Now, all you boxing fans and history buffs out there will know what I’m talking about, and if you don’t, I highly recommend a Google search. While I would love to sit here and write with confidence that we will fare as Mohamad Ali did, right now our match is still unfinished. This last blow will truly be the end of the fight for many, there’s no doubt. But what I can write with confidence, is that the ring won’t close, there will be another fight, another rope-a-dope, another rumble in the jungle for our industry.

I have been asked by countless people, “Why? Why don’t you just give up?” To them and to all of you I say this ... “Because the world needs us. Because we are leaders who get back in the ring. Because if we quit, the ring closes, and if the ring closes, we all lose. Because we know the importance of your special moments, the importance of the rejuvenation of your spirit and the creation of the lifelong memories with friends and families. We didn’t get to be the largest industry on the planet, because we are a bunch of quitters. We got here, because of our creativity, our hard work and because of your need for our product.”

Our future is uncertain and unwritten. Everyone’s future is, and it is naïve and dangerous to think otherwise. But if there is an industry out there that has proven that blows can be taken, and one can continue to get back up time and time again, it is ours. And if there is an industry that proves how positive energy can change the world, I would put us in that category too. And who doesn’t want to support an industry that gives you culture, culinary, adventure and rejuvenation in return. After all, what would the world be like without us? May we never know the answer to that question, and may we raise a glass to the fighters out there who keep this ring open for us all to enjoy.

What A Season!!

By Dr. Deirdre O’Neill, Naturopathic Doctor

If you are a local, you may question my perspective on how great this season has been. It sure has brought its fair share of challenges - thin snow pack, limited skiable runs, harvesting snow, deep freeze, mid season melt. But, it has brought many gems. Let me share with you here how minimal snowfall can still be a positive year of skiing for your health and wellness.

We get to ski a community mountain. A place where we are united by a love for the sport. Camaraderie and commissary - connections with locals and travellers - picking up quick convos on the quad or après ski. Sharing quality time with our families, creating passion for the mountains in the youngest. Meaningful connections out on the hill contribute to emotional resilience, a sense of belonging, and overall happiness.

Even a bad day gets us outside enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Combining mountain views with the rhythmic motion of gliding down the slopes forces skiers to be in the moment. Having a mindfulness day fosters deep connection with all that is around us. You can take this heightened awareness into daily life, helping you to appreciate beauty in the ordinary.

Apex is a place where we can build our confidence around family and friends. Skiing is always a positive environment. It fosters confidence that can then be taken into other paths of life.

Just the fact that we can ski shows that we all have a base level of fitness. Skiing is a physically demanding activity. A certain level of fitness with a healthy heart and strong leg muscles are needed to maintain endurance throughout the day. If you have the power and stability in your legs, you know that you are reaping the rewards of all your dry land training. For as long as you ski in your life, you are promoting flexibility in your joints. Quick turns. Landing jumps. Variable terrain. Dodging twigs. These are all components that keep your joints flexible and promote their range of motion.

If you are one who has sustained an injury out on the hill, you may now be in the place of finding the gem in recovery. I find that all injuries run their course - pain, immobility, rehabilitation to rebound. The rebound phase is fascinating - a process of recovery, resilience and personal growth.

Catching our few blue bird days are always a bonus. Brightens the mood. Exposure to sunlight also boosts Vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D is crucial for enhancing bone density, supporting immune health and enhancing mood.

Let’s be grateful for the season that we have had so far and always pray for snow. Or at the least, cherish the spring skiing days upon us. The saying is true ... “Even a bad day skiing is better than a good day at work”.

Dr. Deirdre O’Neill, Naturopathic Physician, has an expertise in Prolotherapy and Platelet Rich Plasma using Ultrasound Guidance. She practices in Penticton at Alpine Natural Health. You can also find her on the hill as part of the Volunteer Canadian Ski Patrol.

Dr. Deirdre O’Neill

Naturopathic

Physician & Prolotherapist

The Artisan’s Den at Apex

Thank

Licensed Premise! Drop in for a snack or lunch, enjoy a bevy, and do a little shopping while you are here.

Art Classes Available.

You Apex!

By Jane Ono

As we count down the days of the 2023-2024 season, we again get to reflect on how lucky we are. Apex staff, community, and guests ... you have all contributed to another amazing year. Thank you everyone.

The Artisan’s Den was quieter this year (weren’t we all?), but we weren’t without a few highlights. Who could forget “Donut Saturdays”, as our Tucker ‘Nuts Donut crew made hillside donuts for end-of-day treats. Thank you Jackson, Colby and Owen. Our Thursday night series, “Everyone is an Artist”, continued with great success ... drawing, painting, cooking, potting, and beading ... there was something for everyone to do. A huge thank you to all of our instructors and participants who made this series such fun. More than 45 potters have now created pottery items in our active pottery studio. We’ve wedged, thrown, rolled, stamped, and glazed thousands of unique pieces ... turning mud into items of beauty. Well done, potters!

Finally, thank you to all of our community who dropped in to have lunch (or an apple turnover), a beer, or to simply shop. It is so special to be able to showcase the talents of over 30 local artists in this unique setting, and I have enjoyed meeting so many people.

Wishing you all a Happy Easter and a wonderful off-season.

See you in the summer ... YES! We plan to be open as much as possible once the snow melts and the hikers return. Cheers all.

Location:

Harold Simpson Youth Center, 9111 Peach Orchard Rd, Summerland BC

Wilderness Medicine

(24 Hour Course)

June 7,8,9/2024

Cost:

$ 300.00

For information or to Register contact:

Jim at 250-486-7166 Jimongena1@gmail.com

* All participants will receive more details upon registration.

This course is designed for those who work or recreate in the outdoors, far from the assistance of the 911 EMS systems. It is for outdoor leaders and responsible wilderness users who know that accidents happen and that medical help may be days away.

This is not similar to a St. Johns or Red Cross Course!

The instructor will be Jim Ongena, he has been teaching wilderness medical courses throughout Canada & U.S.A. for the past 22 years and is considered the pioneer of Wilderness First Aid in Eastern Canada. He has taught over 100 courses since 1982.

DAY 1 – introduction (scope of this course), liability concerns, anatomy & physiology, body surveys – primary, secondary and vitals, cold injuries, patient moving, soft tissue injuries, shock, head injuries, improvised carries.

DAY 2 – review Day 1, drowning, fractures, dislocations, sprains, review CPR & obstructed airways, spinals, simulation, lightning, snakes, spiders, and other nuisances, first aid kits, major simulation

DAY 3 – review Day 2, drugs, chest injuries, burns, heart attacks, strokes and a major simulation.

Lifeskills

By Jim Ongena, Life Coach in Summerland Worry

Worry is something many of us do. We worry over small things like our hair, bigger things like money, and serious things like a new lump somewhere in the body. I suggest you STOP worrying about these things, because by doing so you gain no benefit and probably make things worse.

A better idea is to either: 1) accept what is; or 2) do something about it. Acceptance or change should be your two options whenever you find yourself worrying. Here are the facts on worrying:

40% - are about things that never happen

30% - are about things over and done with

12% - are about health that’s OK

10% - are classified as petty

8% - are legitimate

I can truly say that I have eliminated worry from my own life and consider it one of the more useful things I’ve learned. It was also one of the easiest lifeskills to learn. Just catch yourself when you do it and opt into acceptance or change instead. The serenity prayer is helpful in eliminating worry.

“Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

Good luck and don’t worry.

To contact the author directly, email jimongena1@gmail.com.

Great Cabin Recipes

Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies

By Dee Milton

In a world that seems to be slowly taken over by a sourdough craze, I thought that I might share one of my tried and true recipes - a sourdough discard cookie recipe that is sure to leave you craving more!

The frequency of feeding your sourdough starter depends on factors like ambient temperature and how often you bake. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to feed your starter daily if kept at room temperature or every 12 hours if you maintain it in a warm environment.

Did you know that you can use discard in various recipes instead of throwing it away? Popular options include incorporating it into pancakes, waffles, pizza dough, or even using it to create a new sourdough starter for a friend. It’s a versatile ingredient with a tangy flavour that adds depth to many baked goods.

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Begin with a large mixing bowl, adding 1 ¼ cup of flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda and mix well with a fork.

Next, create a well in the middle of your flour mixture and add ½ cup + 2 tbsp of sourdough discard, 1 large egg, ½ cup of softened butter, 2/3 cup of packed brown sugar, ½ cup of granular sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Do not mix until all ingredients are in the small well. Then, with an electric mixer, blend all ingredients until incorporated, being careful to not overmix. Drop cookie dough into a non-stick pan by the tablespoon and bake for 12 minutes. Remove cookies from oven and leave on pan for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Trust me, these are better than your average cookies for dipping in milk!

Slushy Thoughts From The Snow Bank

By Brad Nunes

Is it already April? Has the season already come to an end? Oh my. Time flies when you are ripping down the hill.

Now, this may not have been a banner year for snow, but boy, hats off to all the crew on this lovely hill. When other hills were closing and they all saw more dirt than snow, we kept on trucking. The grooming was second to none. We had more open terrain than most and it was all pretty decent. Hats off to those driving the cats, making the snow and keeping the lifts spinning. Great job and thank you so much for keeping the sport we love a thing we could do.

With Easter being in March this year, it looks like the joke is on us for April. Not a single holiday! What a bummer ... until you realize that it means you can take an extra ski day! Come on up on Good Friday and/or Easter Monday! Get those extra days of vertical and do it mostly guilt free! Now, I may get a little judgey if you miss church, but I am sure you can ask the Big Guy for forgiveness. Sometimes, when I get going fast and I catch an edge, I am pretty sure I see God. He often takes the form of a tree or large rock in these instances. He has at least blessed me with the good sense to wear a helmet. He did not give me the good sense not to pitch myself down sketchy double blacks. I am pretty sure that is how he has fun. Gives us enough confidence to do a dumb thing and just enough sense to wrap your head in some foam and plastic. I think the Benny Hill theme song is on repeat whenever the heavenly hosts tune in to watch me ski.

Once again, I want to say thank you to my patrol family. The ski season always has a bitter sweet end. I am blessed to spend most of my ski days with the greatest group of folks you have ever seen in red. Yes, even better than the cardinals (both the catholic type and the baseball type). These sisters and brothers are just awesome people both on and off the hill. And when I say family, I really mean it. We are two generations of patrollers deep in some families with the third generation literally learning to walk in the volley cabin! It is something special to be a part of. If you ever want to give back to the mountain you love and join an amazing team, get in touch. We are always looking for new faces.

So, that puts a pin in the 2023/24 season. Thank you so much for hanging out in the snowbank with me. As always, much love as you embark on warmer activities. Hope to see you back here next year. Cheers!

CatMatch

Meet O'Malley

I was abandoned and not doing so well living on my own. I found my way to a kind woman's property where she o ered me food, water, AND shelter for the night! I spent the rst warm night with a full belly in a long time, but I was really sick! In the morning, the kind lady got me into a large kennel and I was taken to a Vet, where I had to spend several days getting better. Now, I am ready to roll! Looking for someone to love me, despite the scars I bear through no fault of my own. I am presently at a lovely bed and breakfast, known as Total Pet in Kelowna. www.alleycatsalliance.org.

South Okanagan Similkameen Volunteer Centre Update

By Laura Turnbull, Chairperson

Spring bulbs are popping through the ground and sign-up notices for sporting programs are posted throughout the area; surely signs that Spring is in the air! Many of us find this season to be a time of renewal and refreshment. What better way to revive oneself than through volunteering.

Countless sporting teams are looking for volunteer coaches, managers, and helpers. Art galleries throughout the region are looking for willing helpers in their various programs and exhibits. And, let’s not forget the festivals that are starting up in a short while. Thousands of volunteers help make the many varied festivals the successes that they are. Whether it be taking tickets, helping behind the scenes, or assisting with parking, there is a volunteer task for you.

Perhaps your interest lies more in assisting the frail elderly. Helping read to an infirmed person, visiting with a recently hospitalized neighbour, or delivering meals on wheels might be right for you. A friend volunteers at the hospital aiding folk who will be going for surgery. One morning a week, another friend donates her computer skills to an organization she believes in. Several local organizations are looking for board members to help in the governance of their society.

If you want to do something rewarding this spring, contact the South Okanagan Similkameen Community Connections Volunteer Centre at 1-888-576-5661, email the Centre at info@ volunteercentre.info or drop into its new location in The Cannery at 110-1475 Fairview Road. Office hours are generally 9:30 am to 3:00 pm Monday to Friday. Calling ahead first is highly encouraged. Our Executive Director Subrina Monteith would love to talk to you about volunteering for spring satisfaction!

Expand your day, your insights, your life, by volunteering!

Up to $1000

REBATES AVAILABLE for conducting work on your property!

Zoe’s Tunes To Turn To Artist ~ HOTEI | Song ~ “C’MON EVERYBODY”

So, we’ve reached the end of the season, or close to it. It’s finally been consistently good, in fact, great I’d say. Amazing conditions the first weekend of March, so better get out there folks!

“C’mon everybody”, get on up here! Shake some tail and rip through the snow dunes like you haven’t before! Join in the festive dress up days of mid-late March, the good ‘ol Dummy Downhill, and Easter Long Weekend. Let’s end on a high note people!

Zoe is a life-long skier and daughter of Jay and Myleen Mallach. Jay was the former writer of this column for many years. The time has come to pass the torch to the eldest child. Join Zoe this season in “Zoe’s Tunes To Turn To”. Look up her tunes and join in the fun.

Promote Your Business Here!

Reach those who love all things ‘Apex’ and recreating outdoors.

Shop Local. Buy Local. Neighbours Helping Neighbours.

Full details at ApexMatters.com.

Volunteer Patrol Update

By Brad Nunes, CSP SO Boundary Zone

Hello everyone! From all of us on patrol, thank you for a wonderful season. We joke about hoping we don’t see you (in the infirmary), but we were happy to be there when you did need us. We all have a passion for skiing/boarding and doing what we can to help out others on the mountain. We would like to wish you all the best in the warmer months and continue to take a safety mindset into all your spring/summer/fall activities. Please use the same practice of maintaining your equipment and your body as you swim/bike/kayak/disc golf/whatever. We do offer our services to summer events, so keep an eye out at your next sporting event and give us a high five if you see someone in a patrol t-shirt. Thanks again and we will see ya’ll next year! Cheers!

“Pow Day” ~ Photo by Johnny Smoke