Apex Matters “Keeping You in the S’know” www.ApexMatters.com
Published by Okanagan Matters Publications
CSP Apex Ski & Board Swap ~ Sep 22 & 23 Apex Early Bird Season Passes Until Oct 1st
apexmatters@telus.net
Volume 14 : Issue 1 Your FREE Local Snow Culture Newsletter!
September 2017 250.490.6951
Quick Facts: 2500 copies are printed monthly from September 2017 through April 2018. Distribution covers Osoyoos to West Kelowna and around Apex Mountain. Full advertising options, read past issues online, and link to join our Apex Matters eNews all at www.ApexMatters.com.
Enjoy Mountain Biking in the Apex Alpine Photo by Preserved Light Photography - www.preservedlight.com
Visit us at SouthOkanaganRealty.com
Get your APRÈS on!
For all your Apex RealEstate needs, including on hill inquiries and viewings, contact Norm at 250.809.1875 or Lyndi at 250.809.1260.
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Welcome to the New Owners of Apex Mountain Resort! What an exciting time for all of us. If it is time for you to consider a move at Apex, give us a call. We are proud to be the #1 Selling Team at Apex again for 2016/2017 Season. * * Based on MLS Sales Between September 2016 to September 2017.
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ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Welcome Back To Apex Matters! By Myleen Mallach, Owner/Publisher of Apex Matters I don't know about you, but I get so excited when September rolls around. It means my ski dreams are soon to be a reality again. I can't wait to reconnect with my mountain friends! It is likely obvious that I love winter, just as I do all the other seasons. But, there is something about winter and playing outdoors that invigorates me. It's that clean, calm, crisp, quietness that rejuvenates me to the core. Then fly down a slope of untouched powder with all my senses aligned, thinking of nothing more than the next few of turns ahead ... the payback from my weightless, rhythmic flowing movement mirrors my effort made. Push more get more, or sit back and enjoy the ride. Either way, I am living in an amazing moment! I stop to catch my breath and let my legs recover. While I glance around the pristine landscape, I sense peace and tranquility with the biggest grin my whole body could project. I am 'one' with my self, my skis, my world ... I feel like I must be related to Ullr, or perhaps he is watching. If you felt any of that last paragraph, then you're are a thrill seeking powder fiend just like me. There is no question that I am passionate about all things Apex. If you think I'm nuts, that is totally fine. After all, there are 'no friends on powder days'. I am excited to bring back Apex Matters for a 14th season. I look forward to preparing fresh new issues every month through April. My goal is "Keeping You in the S'know", so read online or in print, catch up on the latest and greatest, hear about alpine adventures, stay current with club updates, find out about ski and stay specials, never miss out on an après party, enjoy specials, win prizes, and even push your thinking a little further ... it's all right here at your finger tips in Apex Matters. Distribution this season will cover Osoyoos, Oliver, Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, Penticton, Naramata, Summerland, Peachland, West Kelowna, and around Apex Mountain. A route list is available upon request. If you would like to see Apex Matters at a location near you, please email apexmatters@telus.net. I would like to give a huge thanks to all the advertisers and content contributors. Without their support, we wouldn't have Apex Matters. Cheers to them, Ullr, and a great season ahead!
"Apex Legends"
Does this photo remind you of days gone by, stories of old, or a legend perhaps you heard long ago? Welcome to a new column this season! Join us as we share stories of our very own "Apex Legends". If you know of someone you would like to see honoured in this column, please email apexmatters@ telus.net. Thank you Ronda for the idea! Photo courtesy of Doug Cox of www.okanaganhistory.com.
Slushy Thoughts from the Snow Bank By Brad Nunes Alright! Apex Matters is in full swing again. This must mean the slopes will be open any time now! I can’t wait to get bombing down runs. I am sure I’ll be able to sneak in a few inside of a couple of weeks. I’ll just toss on my 0.5 grit rock skis. She’ll chatter a bit on the way down the Chute, but we’ll get ‘er dun. Might even get in a few T-shirt days. Epic fall conditions! As a parent of two perfect angel-like children, September is consumed with the madness of back to school. As much as I loathed last year’s trends of ‘bottle flipping a fidget spinner whilst dabbing’, I truly dread what the future might hold. I know I am going to walk into a room and one kid will be planted with his face in a corner. When I ask him what his is doing, he will yell exasperatedly, “DAD! I was Walling! You just messed up my 8 hour record attempt! My 9,000 stream viewers are going to hate me. #dadruinswalling.” I will then slowly close the door and question all my life choices. I will also question how my son managed to actually hashtag in a spoken sentence. They live in a world that has no place for me ... September also gives us the Annual Ski Swap! It is an amazing event and really your best place to find amazing deals on used and new gear. However, with this event, it means I have to brave spiders and forgotten VHS tapes to dig out the kid’s ski equipment. I then have to sumo wrestle them into ski boots that I know really won’t fit, but hope to squeeze just one more season out of. After releasing the child from a choke hold and the boots, I then have to Google how to convert their shoe size back into the Euro-soaked language that is ski boot sizing. It gives me an opportunity to use that French 12 class I took only to go on the annual ski trip. And when it is all said and done, I get to wrap everything back up, fist bump the spider, and pack it all away for a few more months. Parenting is my true joy. As summer slips swiftly to shoulder season, we seize the setting sun. Slowly sunny thoughts shift to slipping serenely down snow slung slopes of stark white … crap. What is an ‘S’ word for Joy? I am sure I’ll get it next time. Anyway, I am excited that Apex Matters is back and that I am able to share my twisted ramblings with all you fine folks. Keep your eyes here for all the latest news and goings on above 5000 feet (or 1500 meters). Let’s hold off a month or two, but get whatever charms or incantations on standby. When November rolls around, do whatever you need to do to get us totally dumped on with snow. Have a great fall everyone!
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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. © 2017 Okanagan Matters Publications.
ApexMatters.com
Welcome to the Season
September 2017
By James Shalman, Apex Mountain Resort General Manager Welcome to another great season of winter fun at Apex Mountain Resort. There is a real buzz around the community with excitement of the resort being purchased by a new ownership group. Discussions are underway on how to improve the mountain and make our great ski resort even better. One of the first things that was identified as needing improvement was a central reservation booking system for accommodation on the mountain. This will enable Apex Mountain Resort to partner with property owners on the mountain and offer accommodation and lift ticket packages booked with one phone call or a single website for online reservation. “Apex Places” is the new name and will be live this winter, if you have a property at Apex and would like to have rental income, contact us and we will show you how Apex Places can provide revenue for you and provide an easy booking experience for our customers. A media promotions company has been hired to assist with our marketing, a new look for our website, and an increase in social media activity. Like us on Facebook (see the Facebook link on our webpage apexresort.com) and find out the latest news of what’s happening on the mountain, special deals, events info and of course powder alerts! This summer our crews have been hard at work, as they are every summer, making improvements on the mountain. There are new runs that have been built on the Wildside. Grandmothers is now a green run and we have built two new runs that branch off of Grandmothers. Snowfencing has been extensively expanded over the top of the mountain, allowing more snow to be held behind the fences and improving the snow quality of the runs. Snowmaking has had improvements over the summer with new snowmaking lines being brought in to Kristi’s Run and the Terrain Parks. Brushing of runs was put on hold, due to the fire hazard, but will continue this Fall to allow for better early season riding. Season passes are now on sale with a Price Freeze! Season Passes are the same price as last year! Season passes are available for purchase at the early bird sale rate until October 1st, 2017 online at apexresort.com. Season pass applications will be mailed out to your address in the first week of September, if you had a season pass with Apex in the past two seasons. You can get a season pass application at Freeride Boardshop, Pentagon Boardshop, True Outdoors, or Sport Chek Penticton starting the first week of September. Apex staff will be selling season passes on location at the Swap September 22nd and 23rd at the Curling Rink in Penticton. Apex staff will also be on location at the Cherry Lane Shopping Centre from September 29th to October 1st. Don’t forget we have payment plans! Adult season pass available from $625* (*family rate, plus tax). If you have any ideas of how you think we could improve the Apex experience, drop me a line at james@apexresort.com, or better yet, come and say ‘hi’ in person the next time you are on the mountain. It is going to be another fantastic winter of play at Apex Mountain Resort and we want you to join in the fun. We look forward to seeing you on the mountain this winter.
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APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT
Season Passes
P
N by__
ON SALE NOW Adult passes from
625
$
*
*FAMILY RATE
Early Season Discount Until October 1st ONLY In Stores at: Freeride (Penticton, West Kelowna) Apex Ski Shop Pentagon Board Shop Sport Chek Penticton On Location: Sept. 22nd to 24th Penticton Curling Rink Ski/Board Swap Sept. 29th to Oct. 1st Cherry Lane Shopping Centre Free Tubing, Free Skating, & On-Mountain Discounts INCLUDED In your 2017/18 Season Pass! Find out more details and buy online at www.apexresort.com
Toll Free: 877-777-2739 Apex Mountain Resort Special Features
Fax: 250-292-8100 apexresort.com
77 Runs | 4 Terrain Parks | 2000 Vertical ft | 1112 Skiable Acres | Open Glades | Tree Skiing 16% Novice | 48% Intermediate | 36% Advanced/Expert | 20 ft Cumulative Annual Snowfall World Famous Gunbarrel Saloon | The Edge Bistro | On Mountain Accommodations | Store Night Skiing | Tube Park | Bus | Skating Loop | Hockey Rink | Fat Bike Loop | Snowshoe Trails
Apex Mountain Resort is a full service destination resort, known for the lightest champagne powder snow, incredible terrain, and friendly people. Come and check us out this winter!
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September 2017
Nickel Plate Nordic Ski Club Presents ...
“Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour� Wednesday, September 20th Doors Open at 6:15pm & Showtime at 7pm Cleland Theatre in Penticton Tickets are $25 each with proceeds going towards Nickel Plate Nordic Centre, which is a great way to support our local nonprofit club! Pick up your tickets at either Peach City Runners, the Bike Barn, or True Outdoors. For more information, please email bmffpenticton@gmail.com or call Kathryn at 778-476-4849. This event will sell out fast, so be sure to get your tickets soon!
ApexMatters.com
Annual Nickel Plate Nordic Ski Swap Saturday, October 14th 9am - 2pm at The Bike Barn Needing new gear? Wanting to get rid of skis that the kids have outgrown? This event is the perfect opportunity for both. Drop off nordic gear to be sold at the Bike Barn during business hours on Wednesday, October 11th until Friday, October 13th. Attach a price or ask us to price it for you. 20% of the sales will go towards the Nickel Plate Junior Racers. The Bike Barn is located at 300 Westminster Avenue West in Penticton. They are open 9am - 5:30pm Tuesday - Saturday. For more info, call 250-492-4140 or visit www.bikebarn.ca.
ApexMatters.com
September 2017
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Welcome to the Nickel Plate Nordic Centre Winter Office Hours 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 Visit the Nickel Plate Nordic Centre booth at the Penticton Farmers Market in the 100 block of Main St on Saturday, September 9th and 16th.
"An Apex Glance At Our Night Sky"
Welcome to another new column this season! Join us as we cover star gazing, moon cycles, and much more. We will also share some articles by Ken Tapping, an astronomer with the NRC's Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory in Kaleden. Thank you Judy for the idea and Preserved Light for the photo!
Volunteer Opportunities
Photo by Van Pratt Annual Nickel Plate Loppet - Photo by Van Pratt
"Nickel Plate Morning"
Photo by Leigh Trusler Photography. To see more of Leigh's work visit www. leightruslerphotography.com or visit Leigh Trusler Photography on Facebook. If you would like to see a selection of her framed silver gelatin prints of the Apex Mountain area, just take a walk through to the Apex Mountain Inn as her work is displayed on each floor of the hotel, including the lobby.
Feeling lonely? A “dose” of Volunteering makes loneliness less common. We know if we eat healthy foods, exercise, and avoid smoking, our chances of living a happier, longer, and healthier life increases. But, it appears that regular volunteering should be added to that healthy checklist. And, there’s a growing body of research to support this. Volunteering at least two hours a week may go a long way toward helping to ease feelings of loneliness and social isolation, which impacts our physical and mental wellbeing. Dawn Carr with Florida State University, and lead researcher on volunteering and loneliness, writes ... “We do not know exactly how volunteering ‘gets under our skin’, but there is some speculation that it is beneficial because it tends to require us to use our mind, it requires us to be more physically active, and it almost always requires us to interact with others.” Carr’s study offers a fresh insight into how much of a ‘dose’ of volunteering might be needed and for how long. It has to be regular to have a benefit; volunteers need to keep showing up. The best ways to derive health benefits from volunteering is to: 1. Volunteer for the right reasons; to help others. 2. Volunteer consistently throughout your life. 3. Volunteer to meet the threshold of 2 hours a week. 4. Volunteer in a diverse range of opportunities or organizations. Lonely people might be less apt to venture out to volunteer and that’s where the SOS Volunteer Centre can help. We have a “Team Volunteering” project where volunteers meet first and get to know one another before embarking on volunteer work of their choice. Everyone is welcome. To learn more about this project, and/or to be on a team, contact the Volunteer Centre at 1-888-576-5661 or e-mail info@volunteercentre.info. At any time you can find your ultimate volunteer position at www.volunteercentre.info in our searchable database. We encourage residents to register as a volunteer and keep informed as new volunteer positions arise.
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ApexMatters.com
September 2017
On The Road To The Olympics
By Andi Naude Hello everyone! I am sure that you are all just as thrilled as I am for the return of the Apex Matters! It was greatly missed, and I am honoured to be able to share my journey with you all once again! Since my last update in March of 2016, a lot has happened, with the 2016/2017 competitive ski season being my best to date. It was full of ups Apex’s Andi Naude, and downs, learning experiences, and Ranked 4th in the World great times with great people. I spent For Women’s Mogul Skiing two months on the road, competing in 14 competitions, taking 31 flights, and visiting 9 countries! I finished the World Cup tour ranked 4th in the world, and managed to reach the World Cup podium four times. I also had the honour of being named Canadian National Champion for the second time in my career. To top it all off, this past April I received an early nomination to the 2018 Winter Olympic Team! This early nomination means the world to me, as it greatly reduces the stress of qualification, and allows me to focus on being the best athlete I can be. With just five months to go before the Games in February, I am confident that I will be there, in top form, proudly representing Canada, the Okanagan, and Apex! Currently, the off-season is in full swing, and it has been absolutely jam packed with training camps and travel, in search of the best snow. As it is an Olympic year, everyone is training harder than ever, trying to dial in their skiing and be in the best shape possible. I have spent countless hours training in the gym, on my bike, on the trampoline, on the water-ramp, and on snow. My teammates and I have travelled to Whistler, France, and Australia thus far, and will soon be heading over to Switzerland. We are all incredibly lucky to be able to travel to such amazing places to train! I sometimes wake up in these beautiful places and have to pinch myself to make sure it is all real! That is all for now, but I am really looking forward to keeping you posted as the season progresses! Stay tuned, and feel free to visit my website for more regular updates at andinaude. com. Again, I cannot thank you enough for all the support and love ... It means the world to me!
Andi Naude training in Australia. Photo by Troy Tully.
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www.bbfd.ca What Was Your Apex Adventure? We want to hear from you! Send in your stories, tales, photos, jokes, or anything that inspires you to get outside and play. Email apexmatters@telus.net A special thank you to Johnny Smoke for sharing these amazing adventure photos. Stay tuned for more ...
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ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Apex Freestyle Update
By Kenni Kuroda, Head Coach The Apex Freestyle Club has had a busy Summer of training at our Water Ramp Facility at Covert Farms near Oliver. The facility houses two water ramps built on the edge of the farm’s 150 sq.ft. back-up irrigation reservoir, with two in ground trampolines, waxing station, storage hut and viewing areas complete with picnic tables. Teams and athletes from as far as the Yukon, Alberta, Washington State and all over BC, from Prince George to Whistler and Vancouver Island, were here this Summer training at the AFC’s facility. As water ramping is considered to be the best and safest aerial training that freestyle athletes can do, it’s no wonder that athletes and their parents flock to this facility because of the Okanagan’s famous Summers. Parents drop their athletes off and then take time for themselves ... i.e. biking, golfing, boating, wine tasting, and taking in all that the South Okanagan has to offer. Athletes range in age from 8-18 and although some have never water ramped before, with the expert direction from the coaches, they are very quickly jumping alongside the elite team athletes training here. The facility is proud to host the Canadian National Mogul Team, Alberta Provincial Mogul Team and BC Provincial Mogul Team.
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With two former AFC athletes on the National Team, one on the Ontario Team, two on the Alberta Team, and seven on the BC Provincial Team, it’s a real ‘coming home’ for them when their teams come here to train. With this facility available to the AFC’s athletes, along with their excellent coaching staff, it is a given that they are producing so many elite freestyle athletes. Registration for the Apex Freestyle Club will be up on the club’s website, apexfreestyleclub.com, in the coming weeks. If you have any questions about our programs, please contact Head Coach Kenni by email to afckenni@gmail.com.
Above - Mikaël Kingsbury - 6-Time reigning World Mogul Champion & Canadian National Team member training at the AFC water ramp. Below - Apex Freestyle Water Ramp Facility at Covert Farms in Oliver.
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September 2017
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Carvers Corner
By Jorgen Anderson, Head Coach & Program Director Well, you know the season is just around the corner when its time to head to the annual ski swap. Be sure to come and find me, as I can fill you in on what our club can offer your children this winter.
Join the Apex Ski Club ‘Carver’ Program ~ Now is the
time to register your kids in our famous Carvers Program. All our coaches follow the successful Sport Chek Snow Stars Program, a skill development tool for young skiers ages 5-12 years of age. This 4 step program provides a pathway to the joy of skiing. This is the quality program that has made the Nancy Greene Ski League famous since 1968! The program is a very good value for money, as it is offered by the parent run Apex Ski Club. Children develop skills, and confidence, through skiing all terrain types, games, skill drills, jumps and bumps, and skier-cross. Our 11 week program runs on Sundays from 9:30 am - 3 pm and starts on January 7th. We also offer an additional half day program on Saturdays from 9:30 am - 12 noon starting on January 6th. You can sign up for both Saturdays and Sundays. Plan ahead for our Annual 3 Day Christmas Camps! They will be held December 27-29 and January 3-5. Each camp runs 9:30 am - 3 pm, with an hour for lunch to recharge. It’s great value, lots of fun, an opportunity to meet new friends for the ski season, and a great way to develop skills on the hill. For more information and to register, please visit www.apexskiclub.com.
SAVE THE DATE! SAVE THE DATE! SAVE THE DATE! Warren Miller Movie Night is Friday, November 24th! Apex Ski Club is excited to announce that the annual Warren Miller Movie Night has finally been moved to a Friday Night! Yes, bring down the whole family on Friday, November 24th and make it a family evening to get stoked for the winter season ahead. Visit the tables in the mini trade show, enjoy a beer or glass of wine, then sit back, relax and enjoy the show! Tickets are $15 each and will be on sale soon at our local sport shops.
See You This Winter At The Apex Ski Club Cabin!
The Apex Ski Club invites you to join ...
Apex Carvers For Ages 5 to 12
This is the quality program that has made the Nancy Greene Ski League famous since 1968!
3 Day Christmas Camps ~ $99/camp Dec 27, 28, 29 or Jan 3, 4, 5
11 Saturdays starting January 6th Half Day ~ 9:30 am - 12 noon
11 Sundays starting January 7th Full Day ~ 9:30 am - 3 pm
Children develop skills and confidence, through skiing all terrain types, games, skill drills, jumps and bumps, and skier-cross. The program is a very good value for money, as it is offered by the parent run Apex Ski Club. Register online now at
www.ApexSkiClub.com
ApexMatters.com
September 2017
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Getting Back Into a Routine By Rhonda Roth is a Fitness Trainer and Active Aging Specialist at City Centre Health and Fitness Now that summer is winding down, many people are looking forward to getting back into a more regular routine. Most have been busy with outside activities, entertaining guests, or taking time away from the gym for a well-earned vacation. Fall is a time to get back to both exercise and the return to mindful eating habits. Now that visitors are not as frequent, children are returning to school and the weather is changing, we can get back into a fitness and wellness routine. Most health and fitness centres offer new and exciting fall classes, programs and membership packages that will suit most needs. Some offer free trails, include orientations, have lifestyle and weight loss programs and have personal trainers that are available to assess your needs and recommend programs that best suit your interests and limitations. So, what is keeping you from starting? For some people, the biggest challenge is actually finding a gym or fitness centre. If you are looking for something new, the internet or telephone is a great source to initially compare, but to really get the feel of that facility you need to make a trip there and take a tour, meet the staff, talk to existing members and assess what the atmosphere is like. Each facility has its own “vibe” or “feeling” and often a different set of clientele depending on the day, time of day and when classes are in session. Every individual has their own set of criteria they look for when selecting a workout facility, so make sure you find out what is most important to you. Find out about classes, programs and membership options, when is most quiet/busiest time of day, parking availability, locker or towel service, shower, steam room or sauna options. Do they suspend memberships if you are away, have an illness or injury? A lot of information can be learned from a visit, tour and the welcome that you receive when you first walk in. If you already belong to a gym or workout facility, half the battle is getting there. Renew your membership, try a new class or program, so once you are there, you are motivated and ready to go. Working out with an exercise buddy can keep you motivated, energized and accountable. If working out solo is challenging, try joining a class or group challenge at work. Personal trainers can be of great assistance to help get and keep you on track. Make sure that you have checked with your health care provider if you are just starting out or have certain limitations and are returning to exercising. Now that fall is approaching, let’s not fall back into our old habits and routines. Get energized and get back to exercising and eating better! There are so many choices, so get busy and find a health and fitness centre that will help you achieve your goals.
Need More Fitness Motivation? Enter to WIN a FREE Month Pass! Stop by the Apex Matters table at the CSP Ski & Board Swap to enter your name in the City Centre Health & Fitness draw.
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250.487.1481 citycentrefitness.com
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September 2017
ApexMatters.com
Cycle Tourism - The Way of the Future! By Lyndie Hill, General Manager of Hoodoo Adventure Company During our peak season at Hoodoo Adventure Company this year, we saw an increase in cycle tourism above and beyond anything we could have predicted. Where once water sports were our number one request, the paddle has now been replaced by the pedal, and I can guarantee this is just the beginning of growth in the industry. Cycle tourism is now growing rapidly around the World. For example, in the UK there is a parallel with renewed interest in personal health and fitness, and with mounting concern over the environmental damage caused by road traffic. The development of the National Cycle Network, with 13,000 miles of cycle routes, provide both a catalyst and an opportunity for local authorities, tourism promoters and other agencies to define coherent route development and marketing strategies so Today, we are lucky enough to have this gem designated as a as to benefit from cycle tourism. recreational trail, right in our backyard. This year, we have Cycle tourism in the UK is currently valued at ÂŁ835 million per hosted hundreds of travellers from all over the world who year. The potential for growth here is huge - the forecast for have been drawn to the area for this rail trail that offers cycle tourism right across Europe is ÂŁ14 billion per year within spectacular scenery, valley vistas, vineyards and orchards, 20 years. With potential economic benefits at this scale, it is trestles, lakes and tunnels. This trail is more than a gem, it is not surprising that there is keen interest in how to develop an absolute goldmine for the region and still so underutilized routes to attract visitors and tourists, and how to market these and untapped on a global scale. effectively. The benefits of cycle tourism include reductions in pollution and traffic congestion, economic regeneration and Cycle tourists represent a growing and valuable tourist better health. market, particularly for rural areas. Cycle tourists will spend at Here in the Okanagan, we are blessed with the Kettle Valley least as much in a rural area as other types of tourists. Cycle Trail. Spanning over 400 kilometres, and carved out of the most tourism is good at generating local trade and offers particular rugged terrain, it was more than once called an impossible opportunities for rural businesses and services. Spending by undertaking. The completion of the railway was a testament to cycle tourists can help to support restaurants, shops, smallthe engineering genius of Andrew McCulloch, and the strength scale rural attractions, and of course, accommodation. As and perseverance of the thousands of men who worked to lay cycle tourists will use local businesses, there is a greater the tracks in the early 1900's. likelihood that the money they spend will stay in the local economy. Cycle tourism is an environmentally sustainable form of tourism with minimal impact on the environment and host communities, while helping to reduce excess traffic. Cycling can provide added attractions and activity for visitors, which will help to extend length of stay and encourage repeat visits.
(Statistics sourced from the European Cycling Federation.)
Investing in cycle tourism should be a no brainer. With Europe seeing 2.3 billion cycle trips per year, including 20.4 million overnight stays, following their lead should be a given. We have the assets, we have this unbelievably beautiful place to share, a place like no other in the world. Now is the time for us to showcase this place we call home to a growing world of cyclists!
ApexMatters.com
EVOLVE FREEDOM
September 2017
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Ask us about our catered snowshoe tours, rentals and outdoor winter fitness classes 131 Ellis Street, Penticton team@hoodooadventures.ca 250-492-3888
Inaugural “Passo Apex” Hill Climb Race
Apex Mountain has long been thought of as one of toughest, steepest paved roads to cycle in BC. A claim recently chronicled in the April edition of Canadian Cycling Magazine. In fact, with an average gradient of 7.9% over 12.2 km, and some pitches up to 20%, the magazine deemed the local mountain a climb worthy of the Tour de France. So, this had organizers of this year’s Prospera Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan thinking, “why not run a race up the mountain?” With presenting sponsor and mobile bike shop business, Velofix, on board, plus the support of Apex Mountain Resort and Kelowna’s Tree Brewing, nearly 50 racers lined up to conquer the mountain switchbacks leading to the ski resort on Saturday, July 8th, as an ancillary test race to Sunday’s big Granfondo ride. Amid the slightly smoky skies, Edmonton’s Marg Fedyna was the top overall finisher among the women with a clocking of 45 minutes and 4 seconds, while Enderby’s Manuel Fehlmann was the first to the top among the men in a time of 38 minutes and 48 seconds. Axel Merckx, Granfondo co-founder and former Belgian professional cyclist, called the event a success. “The Passo Apex race provided a safe and fun opportunity for local and visiting cyclists to test their mettle on a mountain that’s as tough as anything you’ll find in Europe”, said Merckx. “It’s a nice complement to the entire Granfondo weekend, and a great way to showcase other areas of the South Okanagan.” All photos to right are courtesy of Chris Stenberg.
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September 2017
What is Anaphylaxis?
By Jeff Burko, PEAK Executive Medical Director I have been asked many times to explain (in layman terms) what “anaphylaxis” is, what causes it, and how to manage it. It is an excellent question and one I am happy to speak to, as I understand that it can be a confusing topic for many. By definition, anaphylaxis is the “hypersensitivity induced by preliminary exposure to a substance and usually producing a contraction of smooth muscles and a dilation of blood vessels” (www.mayoclinic.org). That’s quite a mouthful and even for some with medical training, it can be rather confusing. In my experience, both as a Paramedic and as a pre-hospital care educator, anaphylaxis is best explained like this: our bodies have a protection system called the Immune System and like other systems they experience faults, failures and glitches - not unlike Microsoft’s Windows Millennium, which had a multitude of glitches and failures including the ever annoying ‘blue screen of death’ (pun intended). Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic over-reaction by the immune system to a substance, such as (but not limited to), foods, insect stings, perfumes, plants, medications, etc. When someone with a ‘faulty’ immune system is exposed to a substance, their immune system perceives the substance as a threat and that substance is referred to as an allergen. The allergen triggers an inappropriate response by the immune system. As an example: when I eat scallops, I don’t have an issue; however, when my wife Emma eats or is exposed to scallops, her immune system perceives the scallops as a threat to her body’s survival. Her immune system, though intending to protect her, reacts to combat the perceived threat by releasing histamines. While the intention of her immune system is to help and prevent Emma from dying, the histamines unfortunately do two very unhelpful and potentially lethal things: 1) causes the upper airways to constrict potentially causing severe shortness of breath; and 2) causes her blood vessels to dilate, which in turn causes a severe drop in blood pressure which may result in a profound state of shock, which if left untreated can cause death. In other words, the histamines themselves are counterproductive and can cause the patient to die. The immediate treatment is to administer epinephrine (Epi-Pen), which will reverse the effects of the histamines by dilating the upper airways and constricting her blood vessels. (CAUTION: epinephrine will only remain effective for approximately 20 minutes, then the patient could become very ill again). In all suspected cases of anaphylaxis, 911 (EMS) must be called. If the patient is not breathing, be prepared to provide cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Anaphylaxis is a lifethreatening condition that requires immediate medical care. Do not delay!
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ApexMatters.com
Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylaxis ~ The allergic reaction can happen in seconds, minutes or hours; therefore, early recognition and treatment is essential. You should watch for: • Sudden swelling of the face, tongue, lips, throat and eyes. • Voice changes, which may develop into loud pitched noisy breathing (which may stop altogether). • Difficult, wheezy breathing, tight chest (the patient may have the equivalent of an asthma-like attack, as well as a swollen airway). • Rapid weak difficult to feel pulse. • Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and/or diarrhea. • Itchy skin. • Red, blotchy skin eruption. • Anxiety - a feeling of ‘impending doom’. If you experience or witness any of these signs or symptoms, activate the Emergency Medical System (dial 911) immediately. Jeff Burko is the Executive Medical Director and founder of PEAK Emergency Response Training. Since 1998, PEAK has provided training, certification and medical direction services to many BC Search and Rescue teams, Heli and CAT skiing operations and a multitude of ski resort patrol teams, including our own Apex Mountain Resort of which Jeff is the Medical Director. In addition, Jeff is a Veteran Paramedic with 34 years of experience with the BC Ambulance Service. Jeff and his family live part-time at Apex. Need Peak Emergency Response Training or have a topic you would like covered? Please call 778-899-7325 or email admin@peakemergencytraining.com. For more information, visit www.peakemergencytraining.com.
Time To Swap Your Gear! By Kirk Marleau, CSP Swap Coordinator It’s that time of year again to start putting away the summer toys and start thinking about heading to the mountains in search of that perfect run through the snow. To really get ready for the season ahead, you must look in your basement or garage, check out your skis and boards, and determine if new equipment is needed to ride the mountain. To help you move out the old and replace what is needed, the Canadian Ski Patrol - Apex Zone is hosting it’s Annual Ski and Board Swap. The Apex Zone Ski Patrol is a volunteer organization that provides first aid services on the slopes and in the village at Apex Mountain Resort. Proceeds from the Swap goes toward first aid equipment used on the mountain. This year’s swap is taking place at the Penticton Curling Club on Friday, September 22nd and Saturday, September 23rd. Skiers and boarders can bring in their used equipment to sell on consignment and then purchase what they need to hit the slopes. There will be a great selection of both new and used equipment for all ages and all ability levels. Patrollers will be on hand to offer assistance in helping you choose the gear appropriate for you. The consignment goods can be dropped off on Friday, September 22nd starting at 9 am. All unsold equipment must be picked up by 11 am on Sunday, September 24th. Looking forward to seeing you at the Swap!
ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Note: We cannot accept straight skis, toques, helmets or hockey equipment. Unsold items must be picked up by Sunday, September 24 from 9-11am.
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September 2017
Regional District Okanagan-Similkameen Tom Siddon, Electoral Area ‘D’ Director 250.809.2548 | tsiddon@rdos.bc.ca Area ‘D’ Community Services Office Shona Schleppe, Rural Services Manager 778.515-5520 | sschleppe@rdos.bc.ca It has been a busy spring and summer at Apex! After 20 years, Apex Mountain Resort ownership has changed hands. Apex Mountain Resorts Partnership Ltd. has purchased all the outstanding shares of the Resort and taken over operations effective immediately. Mike Duggan, formerly had senior positions at Silver Star Mountain and Sun Peaks Resort, is part of that partnership. He has vast tourism experience as the former chair of Tourism British Columbia. This past July, Apex Mountain Resort hosted the hill climb as part of the schedule for the Prospera Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan event. This hill climb cracked the Canadian Cycling Magazine’s Top 10 list for climbs in Canada, listed at No. 2. The road to Apex Mountain, which is more than 10-kilometres has an altitude gain of 831 metres and an average gradient of 8.1 per cent, has drawn cyclists to this stretch of road on a daily basis. Please remember to share the road to Apex! Get ready for the season ahead by marking these dates on your calendar: attend the Banff Mountain Film Festival on September 20th in the Cleland Theatre; head to the CSP Ski & Board Swap at the Penticton Curling Club on September 22 & 23; and finally, don’t forget to purchase your Apex Season Pass during the last weekend in September at Cherry Lane Shopping Centre or visit one of the local ski and board shops. You have until October 1st to get in on the early bird savings.
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Apex Waste Transfer Station Update
In October 2016, the RDOS released an online and paper survey to the residents and businesses at Apex Mountain Resort regarding two design options for the Apex Mountain Waste Transfer Station. The RDOS hosted two open houses to review the design options, cost, construction timelines, and to answer questions from residents and businesses. 106 surveys were received, with 66% choosing the above Option 1 to have a metal building, while 34% chose Option 2 to have no building. The open houses and survey comments identified some key issues that residents and businesses would like considered: • Illegal dumping at the current site occurs frequently. Materials include building materials, electronics and furniture. • Some property owners would like options for large item disposal at the Mountain. Others would like surveillance cameras and fines for people that illegally dump materials. • Some property owners were concerned about using property value as the basis for payment. For example, a cabin valued at $450,000 could pay over $430 a year compared to a $100,000 condo paying $96. Some requests were made to share costs more equitably between units. • A few residents and businesses questioned the need for a new waste transfer station. People that did not want a waste transfer station generally opted for the lowest cost approach, being no building. • Environmental issues discussed included windblown litter, materials getting in the neighbouring creek and wildlife. • Concerns about smell and noise for units close to the site were expressed along with some opposition to the site location in general. From the survey results, the RDOS worked on a design for a building at the waste transfer site. (A rendered drawing is available to view at www.rdos.bc.ca.) Building colours and final design will tie in with the Apex Mountain Resort Village and will take the various issues identified into consideration. Other upcoming steps include creating rules, regulations and fines for the site, hiring a maintenance contractor to ensure the site stays clean, and reviewing potential options for payment, such as a fee for service rather than taxes. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen will complete the construction of a new waste transfer station at Apex Mountain Resort in 2018. The waste transfer station will provide garbage and recycling service for the homes and businesses at Apex Mountain. Completion in 2018 is due to a number of factors, including; a change of ownership of the resort, higher than estimated construction pricing, internal capacity issues due to Staff working on flooding and fires, and a lack of clarity on how the project will be financed. RDOS Staff determined that finishing construction in 2017 was not financially feasible with the short building season at the ski hill. Proceeding this year would have cost residents more money than waiting until next Summer. The facility is now slated for completion next year. Works completed this year include power upgrades to the site. Updated information will be shared on the RDOS website. For more information, visit www.rdos.bc.ca, email info@rdos.bc.ca, call 250-490-4129 or toll free at 1-877-610-3737.
ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen
Changes Proposed to Electoral Area “D” Attention residents and property owners of Kaleden, Okanagan Falls, Twin Lakes, Lakeshore Highlands, Heritage Hills, Vintage Views, Upper Carmi, Skaha Estates, Vaseux Lake, St. Andrews, Apex and surrounding areas. The Regional District of OkanaganSimilkameen (RDOS) is considering a submission to the Province of BC recommending the division of Electoral Area “D” into two electoral areas. Each of the two new electoral areas would be represented by their own electoral area director as votes are cast and decisions are made at the RDOS Board of Directors. The RDOS is now reaching out for a final round of public consultation to understand public support for the proposed changes with two open houses and an online survey to provide the opportunity for the public to express their views and provide feedback on the proposal.
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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
Monthly MLA Update By Linda Larson, MLA Boundary-Similkameen
The past few months have tested our Emergency Services as never before. Starting with flooding and then moving on to fire. We have been fortunate to not have major fires and evacuations in the South Okanagan. Even a small fire has been attacked with all the resources available and quickly brought under control. The RDOS has done a great job particularly in dealing with the Princeton fire and for that I am very thankful. Flooding was our nemesis this year and we still are experiencing high water in some areas. There will be a complete review of all the concerns raised and certainly some lessons to be learned. For most of you experiencing damage to your properties, the Upcoming Open Houses deadline to apply for funding has been extended. I have been Tuesday, September 12, 2017 assured that every case will be given full attention by Staff. • Kaleden Community Hall ~ 4-6 pm (drop in) Politically, this has also been an unusual time in BC’s history. • Okanagan Falls Community Centre ~ 7-9 pm (drop in) For my office and staff it is business as usual. The local and Regional staff in most Ministries has not been affected by Complete A Survey the change in Victoria and that is who we go to first when a Survey closes Friday, September 15, 2017 Constituent brings a problem to our attention. Everyone of you Survey - www.rdos.bc.ca/area-d-governance/ is just as important to us now as you were before May 9th. Informational brochures have been mailed out to Area “D” Economically, I think we are all in a holding pattern as we wait residents. If you have not received yours, they are available to see how NDP/Green policies will impact the thousands of at the Area “D” Community Services Office at #1 - 5350 9th people employed in the Resource industries in BC. We need Avenue, Okanagan Falls, BC - Next to the IGA. to remember we are also Canadians and what happens in BC can have a positive or negative effect on the economy of the Questions? Contact the RDOS rest of Canada. Phone: 250-492-0237 I believe there are good jobs coming in some of the newer Email: areadgovernance@rdos.bc.ca clean energy businesses, but it will be many years before there Web: www.rdos.bc.ca/area-d-governance/ are enough jobs to employ all the people working in our current resource industries. There are no taxes paid into government CORRECTION NOTICE coffers from unemployed people. I firmly believe in free The Additional Tax Collected Amounts indicated in the enterprise and that consumer demand will dictate any changes newsletter mailed out to all households earlier this month to the market place. contained an error. The amounts were inadvertently reversed: The Legislature is set to resume with a “Speech from the those amounts listed for Area “D” should have been for Area “I” Throne” on Friday, September 8th. However, as most of you and those amounts listed for Area “I” should have been for Area are aware, many policy changes can be done through “Orders “D”. The correct figures are listed below: in Council” by the current Ministers without everyone coming to Figure 5 - Estimated * Annual Cost to Taxpayer of the the floor of the Legislature for debate. Very little information is Proposed Division for an Average Residential Household available to those of us in Opposition at the moment, but I am ($373,371) hopeful that the democratic processes we are familiar with will surface again once the Legislature resumes normal operations Electoral Area (EA) in the Fall. RDOS Additional Tax Additional Tax Additional Tax on an Services Collected in EA “D” Collected in EA “I” Average Household Enjoy the harvest and all the wonderful fruits, vegetables and wines that visitors continue to come here for despite the smoke. General Government $2,255 $1,314 $0.82 Remember that School goes back on September 5th and please be extra careful in school zones. EA Admin $2,380 $1,386 $0.86 EA Planning (APC)
$40
$23
TOTAL
$4,675
$2,723
$1.68
* Costs are estimates only. Estimates are annual, based on 2017 taxation figures and an average residential property assessed at $373,371.
2500 copies of each issue will be distributed every month. Distribution locations will be published in the next issue. Visit www.ApexMatters.com for more information.
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September 2017
APOA Update
By Barry Leigh, APOA President Those of us in the Apex Property Owners Association (APOA) are delighted to see the resumption of Apex Matters. This publication has been a valuable source of information about what is going on in our community and we all missed it last year. For those not that familiar with APOA, we are a non-profit Association and our purpose is to represent local property owner’s interests and to foster initiatives and activities that enhance our community. Our mission statement states that “We are committed to supporting our members’ interests in the development and planning of an attractive and sustainable resort community and it’s surrounding natural resources”. We represent our community’s interest with our local government, the RDOS, and we meet with the Resort Management to deal with items of mutual interest and concern. Our voice is strengthened by the number of owners that we represent, so I would encourage those of you who are property owners and are not members to consider joining our organization. We have recently addressed such topics as the two-tiered electrical rate system, improving internet service, the proposed waste transfer station, and the improvement and maintenance of regionally significant trails in the area. In addition, our road committee and our forestry committee are continuing to address their respective issues and our social committee is already planning a get-together for this coming December. With the high risk of wildfires this Summer and with what we have seen around the province, I think we have all felt a serious concern for the safety of our property at Apex. In this regard, I would like to acknowledge the Apex Fire Brigade for their pro-active efforts in attempting to be prepared for a wildfire event. As well, I’d like to recognize Kyle Parker for providing information to assist in those efforts. As of my writing this article, there is still smoke in the air, it’s hot and dry and still no rain, so this threat is still with us. I would like to end this article, on behalf of the APOA, by extending our support to the new owners of Apex Mountain Resort. We wish them success for the coming season and we look forward to working with them for the betterment of our alpine community.
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The APOA ... The Heart of the Apex Community! Love your Apex retreat? Want to keep it pristine? Like to drive on safe roads to get here? Concerned about the status of logging? Love to use the snowshoe & cross country trails? Love our alpine lifestyle? Then, the APOA needs YOU! Many voices make a strong community. Add your voice and become an APOA member. Step up to join the Board of Directors!
ApexPropertyOwners.com
Friend/Associate Member $15/year or Property Owner $30/year Mail a cheque to APOA, PO Box 23016, Penticton, BC V2A 8L7 Are you a Paid Strata Member? Be sure you are an activated member by sending your email address to APOAexec@gmail.com today!
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ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Apex Fire Brigade Update
By Mike Polywkan, AFBS Fire Chief Hi Everyone and welcome back! It is so nice to have Apex Matters back! No matter how we tried, we could not get our fire department news out like we had in the past through Myleen’s distribution of Apex Matters. Thank you, Myleen! I know that it is a lot of work, but you must know that it is truly appreciated. Since our last Apex Matters article, the Apex Fire Brigade has responded to some calls. We responded to a few chimney fires, and a structure fire resulting from a chimney fire. Apex Property Owners Association (APOA) members may know the story, as it was told by the home owner at the APOA Annual General Meeting. The long story short is that the home was saved by the very quick response of the fire department and the damage as assessed by their insurance company was deemed to be minimal. We did, however, learn from this incident as we always should from every incident. During any debriefing, the question is always asked, “how could have things have gone better?” We looked at our funds and decided that we did have enough to buy a little more equipment to create a few rapid response jump bags for members to use for future similar situations. With our limited funding and equipment, our two most valuable tools are “prevention and rapid response”. Our success as a fire department is highly dependent on these two things. With this in mind, when the forest fire threat increased to critical and we had a few incidents with open burning occurring during the fire ban in our Kamloops District, we called an emergency fire meeting to go over our plan of action. Firstly, we discussed enforcement of this fire ban and made contact with the Fire Warden doing inspections of the area. Secondly, we made a request to the community to refrain from closed burning, as well as open burning, which means that they should not use their wood stoves or fireplaces as sparks and embers can come out of chimneys and start forest fires in such hazardous conditions. Thirdly, we wanted to communicate with the community and users of our area to heighten their awareness of the hazard as part of prevention. We always post a link to the BC FireSmart program on our Facebook page. I worked very hard this Summer to get my own property in compliance with this program. It was a lot of work and I still have a ways to go, but my property is so much safer than it was before. We ask that all members of our community take a look at this program and start on the improvements to make our community safer as a whole. Implications of this could be a decrease in home insurance, if the entire community buys in. And, that is something that even our fire department cannot do, as the underwriters do not recognize us. With extra caution and awareness, we should be able to reduce the risk from human caused forest fires. But, the risk from natural caused ones, like lightening, still remain. So lastly, we decided to set up a rapid response forest fire trailer, where we could at least get a little bit of water to a hot spot immediately. This again meant dipping into the funds to get the bare minimum equipment to make this feasible. Some members also set up their ATV’s, with sharpened chainsaws ready to go, along with shovels and other hand tools. One of our active younger AFBS members, Kyle Parker, joined an initial attack team with the BC Forest Service this Summer and gained valuable knowledge and experience. Our goal is to help him become a professional career firefighter. Kyle was on
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standby and had the time to participate in a fire practice. APOA members were also invited and many came to participate. Kyle covered important information that he had learned with regards to fighting forest fires. John Davis also got the rapid response trailer set up, which we were able to test at this practice. Thank you, John. APOA members got a taste for what may be involved, if there is a lightning strike that creates a hot spot. The Apex Fire Brigade is also proud to have sent firefighters Kyle Parker, Andy Cumming, and Mike Polywkan to Grand Forks this year for the BC Volunteer Firefighters Spring Training Seminar. We had a great time, and as always, received valuable training. On another training note, this year, I was asked to be on the Red Chris Mine Rescue Competition Team (a volunteer fire department for the mine I work at). After months of hard training, we went to Kimberly for the Regional Competition, followed two days later by the Provincial Competition. I am proud to announce that our three man First Aid Team won the Regionals and the Mine Rescue Team placed second. The Provincial Aggregate winners for surface mine rescue went to Green Hills, but we became Provincial Champions beating Green Hills in the extrication scenario, where we had to save three people trapped in a collapsed building under air (wearing self-contained breathing apparatuses, Scott 2.2 packs, the same as the ones your AFBS brigade has).
Left - Grand Forks Spring Training Seminar, BC Forest Services Wildfire Division. Right - Chief Mike bringing valuable experience back home to the ARBS.
FireSmart practices at my place - One of the brush piles representing the “ladder” fuels that have been removed to reduce the risk, if a forest fire were to approach.
Fire practice with APOA members and Kyle going over forest fire initial plan of attack.
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September 2017
ApexMatters.com
Accent Fireplace Gallery Quadra-Fire Wood Stoves & Pellet Stoves With Quadra-Fire® Four-Point Burn System
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How To Build The Perfect Fireplace Fire
Brought to you by Accent Fireplace Gallery The idea of a cozy, warm fire on a cold winter’s night holds a lot of appeal to just about everyone. The question for many is, can you get your fire started? Sure, you can drop in one of those pre-fab logs that will instantly go to blazes, but there is something even more appealing about building your own fire that will last much longer. Here then is the only guide you’ll ever need to build the perfect fireplace fire every time. Spoiler Alert: You’ll be turning this fire upside down! Step 1 - Clean Your Chimney ~ If this is the first fire of the season, then you want to make sure you’ve cleaned out the chimney before striking a match. There’s no telling what kind of bird’s nests, leaves and other debris could have gathered over the Summer. And, it is always best to have it cleared by a professional sweep. Step 2 - Open Your Damper ~ Every fireplace has a damper. This keeps the cold air out. However, if the damper is closed when your start your fire, then it will also keep the smoke in. Step 3 - Prime Your Flue ~ This is primarily for chimneys built on home exteriors, but is a step even veteran firestarters might not know. When the temperature drops, those chimneys can get downright frigid. That chilly air flows into your home when the damper is opened. To prime your flue correctly, talk to the experts at Accent Fireplace Gallery. Step 4 - Keep Your Ash Bed ~ Yes, you should clean out your fireplace, but leave behind 1-2 inches of ash bed for proper insulation. If you’re starting clean, don’t worry. Step 5 - Build Your Upside Down Log Pile ~ You read that right ... upside down! The traditional method of building a fire is to place kindling at the bottom, light it up, and then pile heavy logs on top. Forget that. Instead, place your heavy logs on the bottom and push them tight together without any space in between. Add a layer of smaller logs on top, running in the opposite direction. On top of that, place your kindling and light it. What happens next is those embers will drift down to the other logs and set them ablaze. This is why you want to keep everything tightly packed. You will have to be patient at the start (up to 15 min), but you won’t have to touch it for hours.
Why Quadra-Fire Leads The Way
By Greg Caverly, Accent Fireplace Gallery Did you know that Quadra-Fire wood stoves and fireplaces have a patented technology? It is called Automatic Combustion Control (ACC). Quadra-Fire also has a four point burn system, which allows these stoves to be turned down very low, without building the creosote other stoves do. With the South Okanagan’s milder winters, this is very important to have and keeps your chimney much cleaner. This technology is also among the cleanest burning options with the lowest emissions. Compare only one gram per hour (EPA certified emissions) all without the need for a costly catalyst combustor. This technology is also very durable and easy to use. No need to keep your door ajar at start up, just light the fire, set your desired comfort heat level, and walk away for hours. The Quadra-Fire ACC will look after the rest for you. Most other stoves have only one air control, Quadra-Fire has three. This allows you to have much more control over the heat management and also creates a very attractive flame as well. The best thing of all is the price! If you compare the cost and efficiency of Quadra-Fire stoves to others, you will be pleasantly surprised. Accent Fireplace Gallery carries both catalyst and air tube baffle technologies. It is important to know the difference before you make a buying decision. Your home will ultimately dictate which one is better for you. Because catalyst stoves typically have much lower flue temperatures, some existing homes flues/chimney will not allow the catalyst technology because of the lower flue temperatures created by a exterior masonry flue/chimney. The lower the flue temperatures, the more creosote will form, and draft will be much harder to establish and/or maintain. Others homes have interior flues/ chimney which can be a more desirable, because of warmer flue temperatures, which helps to keep less creosote levels and typically has better draft. There is so much more to learn about this technology, so visit www.quadra-fire.com, or better yet, stop by Accent Fireplace Gallery to learn more. We are located at 1295 Fairview Road in Penticton and open 9-5 Monday - Friday and 10-4 Saturday.
ApexMatters.com
September 2017
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We are looking for more great properties this year! Call Michelle at 250.292.8256 to discuss the benefits of joining us at Stay at Apex!
Thank You Apex Community! As we enter our family’s third season operating Stay at Apex, we want
to thank all our property owners and the community at Apex for all your support and encouragement over the past 2 1/2 years. We are busy preparing for another successful year at Apex and look forward to seeing you all and meeting those of you we have not met yet.
Stay at Apex is in business for two reasons: 1) To assist our property owners in preserving value in their families real estate asset. 2) To provide our guests with a friendly, positive experience at Apex Mountain Resort, so they come back again and again.
Here are a few of the services and benefits we provide to Apex Property Owners! Effective marketing that includes International Exposure and strong relationships with Wholesale Vacation Companies, Local Travel Agencies and Internet Marketing Travel Companies. A growing database of satisfied guests that is creating repeat business for our owners. Friendly and professional staff to handle all bookings, reservations and check-ins, as well as provide 24 hours assistance to all our owners and clients during the ski season. You and your family can still enjoy your property and we will rent it out during nights that it is available. Less wear and tear, as opposed to long term rentals. Housekeeping and hot tub maintenance are all provide by our company. A strong relationship with Event Organizers to be one of the recommended accommodation providers at Apex Mountain Resort. A new name, logo, professional image and effective website with property descriptions, staged pictures for each property and online booking capacity. Visit www.stayatapex.com for more information. We are responsible for charging the rental guests for any damages above normal wear and tear. We screen prospective renters according to specified restrictions such as age, no smoking, no pets (if applicable) and a maximum occupancy number. Volume and wholesale discounts on supplies, services, insurance, etc., are passed on to all our owner clients. Bookkeeping is handled by our company, with statements sent out monthly. Non-resident Tax Filing is also available for non-residents.
Locals and Seasons Lift Pass Holders Call us about discounts and special offers for Locals and Season’s Lift Pass Holders!
www.stayatapex.com
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ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Dino’s Snowshoe tours
Dino’s Snowshoe Diaries
By Dino Giurissevich, Snowshoe Guide I must say, Apex Matters has more lives than a cat. A hearty welcome back to Myleen. It’s way too early for me to think or even talk about snowshoeing, so I have dusted off an old article about getting ready for the season. First off, one should prepare themselves for a season of snowshoeing. I suggest going on hikes of varying difficulty. I use trekking poles during my hikes, as I firmly believe in using poles for snowshoeing. For those that are new to snowshoeing, I suggest long walks using walking poles. Stretching and/or Yoga are excellent ways to loosen muscles before and after snowshoeing. Secondly, gear inspection. I visually inspect my snowshoe’s deck and frame for any rips, tears or cracks, which may seriously compromise their reliability. I put the snowshoes on the boots I will be using to ensure proper fit and that the bindings are working. Telescopic poles will get a cleaning and lubrication. Boots should be weatherproofed, if needed. Thirdly, backpack. Similar to snowshoes, I visually inspect for rips, tears and broken buckles which could cause any problems. Then, I make sure I have in and on my pack the following essentials: 1. Navigation ~ Compass, topo map, GPS or iPhone 2. Sun Protection ~ Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses/goggles 3. Extra Clothing ~ Socks, gloves, toque, balaclava, fleece jacket, light windbreaker, pair of tights, long sleeve undershirt (when reaching the summit of a lengthy climb, I will change into a dry undershirt.) 4. Illumination ~ Headlamp, with extra batteries and bulb 5. First Aid Kit ~ I will not get into specifics, as there are many items and sizes of kits. At the least, have a basic kit, which can be purchased or made up. 6. Fire Starter Kit ~ Lighter, waterproof matches in waterproof container, flint and steel, candle, lint from your dryer for fire starter. These should all be put in a zip-lock bag. 7. Repair Kit and Tools ~ Swiss army knife or multi-tool, folding saw, short screw driver (for snowshoe adjustments), duct tape, zap straps or zip ties (various sizes), string or cord, and small bungee cords. 8. Nutrition ~ Energy bars, mixed nuts and fruit, brown sugar. If I plan on stopping for a longer lunch break, I will bring along sandwiches and a thermos of tea. 9. Hydration ~ I usually hydrate quite well prior to a snowshoe trip and also bring along a litre or two of water. Iodine tablets as well, in case of an emergency. 10. Emergency Shelter & Miscellaneous Items ~ Emergency bivy shelter, a couple of space blankets, hand and foot warmers, small piece of waterproof nylon, whistle, cell phone (with emergency #’s programmed) and a camera. If you carry a backpack with these essentials while out snowshoeing, your outing will be much more pleasurable, especially if lost, hurt or heaven forbid, you have to spend the night outdoors. Be safe! Have a great snowshoe season. Snowshoe Etiquette Tip: It is bad etiquette to snowshoe on any established cross-country ski trails. Please respect their turf. Snowshoe to one side or the other, but never on their track. Snowshoe Sales & Tours ~ Call Dino at 250-809-1165
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Let’s Finish It ... Custom Ski Furniture
Got an old pair of skis that has sentimental value? Ever thought of turning them into a piece of furniture to enjoy? This is where Let’s Finish It can step in and build custom end tables, lamps, racks, coffee tables, benches, or anything you desire. Let’s Finish It provides creative ways to meet your custom design needs.
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M A 7 L S 8 K N I G H T E K E N R N N Y _ G Answer key to the White Kennedy puzzle on page 23.
ApexMatters.com
September 2017
Managing Wealth & Your Children By Robert McLennan, RBC Investment Advisor
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Mommy & Me: Including Your Little One By Rachael Van Cleave
As a mom of a young child or infant, it is TOUGH to find even five minutes to yourself to go to the washroom. How on earth are you going to get a workout in? Who has time for that?! YOU should! Not only does exercising help combat postpartum depression, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, but it also improves your mood and increases energy. That’s energy that will help you chase around that little one as he starts to crawl, walk, and run! Here’s how: Include your baby in the workout. The following are some moves you can use to get that workout in and have fun with your babe at the same time. 1. Run with the stroller ~ This one may seem like a nobrainer, but running is one of the fastest ways to get good cardio into your day. Plus, my little guy enjoys the wind in his face as we get going. If you can’t run for long distances yet, try running for 20 seconds, then walking for 10. This type of interval training is better for your heart and will get you more of a workout in less time. 2. Mason twist while holding your baby ~ Babies LOVE this. Simply hold your baby facing you, lean back, put your legs in the table top position and your feet in the air and move your baby side-to-side over you. Do it for a minute each set. 3. Push ups with kisses ~ Simply put your baby under you facing up and with each pushup give your baby a kiss. They love the closeness and it makes it fun for you too! I would suggest you start the push ups from your knees first and start with 10 and then increase the number to 20. When you are This article is supplied by Robert McLennan, FMA, an Investment ready, move to doing a Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. Member-Canadian push up from your feet. Investor Protection Fund. 4. Squats with baby ~ You can do this with a baby or young child. Do squats, making sure to maintain good Making sure your form, while holding your baby. Do 20 financial future is secure. of these, and then stay down and pulse the movement for 20 seconds. robert.mclennan@rbc.com Robert A. McLennan, FMA Full workout: Start with the running www.robertmclennan.ca Investment Advisor intervals, and then do rotating sets of Toll Free: 1-855-313-7886 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. the last three. Do three rounds of the Tel: 250-770-1213 101-100 Front Street mason twist, pushups, and squats. The Penticton, BC V2A 1H1 Fax: 250-492-3556 Answer key to puzzle above: entire workout should only take half an Each Sudoku has a unique solution hour and you will definitely feel it and the that can be reached Answer logicallyKey benefits that come from doing it. Like us on Facebook without guessing. Enter digits to thefrom right is and/or sign up for our I always say 99.9 percent of the time, I do not regret working for Every the Apex 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. eNews to read the next out. Just show up and you won’t regret it. Matters Sudoku row must contain one of each digit. issue online when it is ready. Puzzle found SoYou must every column, as must Please note: Be sure to check with your doctor first before you "Keeping in the S'know"! every 3 x 3 square. Enjoy! on page 22. start a new fitness routine, especially after having a baby. The Millennial generation is often perceived as disengaged or irresponsible when it comes to managing wealth - but this may be a misconception. Research shows that Millennials are not only active in pursuing knowledge to help them manage their money, they’re demonstrating more interest at earlier ages than their Baby Boomer parents did. On average, Millennials begin their wealth education at 20 years old, and many do this through online research and other self-taught learning methods. This is compared to an average age of 25 for Generation Xers and 32 for Baby Boomers. Most of us would agree that it is our duty to foster a wellrounded education in finance for our children. So, how can we encourage the young generation’s interest and create practical lessons in wealth management? How can we ensure that our children are keeping pace with their fellow Millennials? The answer for many is to provide adult children with more formal family education. Some families provide casual, highlevel advice through dinner table conversations, but consider also structuring in-depth discussions about strategies for investing, tax efficiency, inheriting wealth and more. Arrange a time to discuss specifics, such as how much you can contribute to their education, what steps they can take to build a budget and how they can put funds like RESPs, RRSPs and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) to work for them. Regardless of your income, it’s important to encourage budgeting, so that your children can develop these skills through experience. Another good idea is to introduce your adult children to the professionals (advisors, accountants, lawyers, etc.) who help you manage your wealth today. Many young people see value in consulting with impartial financial experts, with about one quarter of Millennial inheritors already pursuing help from these professionals. Help them make this connection early with someone who knows your family well. In the end, we all hope to impart the inheritance, knowledge and values that will make our legacy an enduring one. Contact Investment Advisor Robert McLennan today to learn more about what you can do to enhance your wealth transfer.
Skaha Matters Sudoku Puzzle
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September 2017
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 21.
Tunes to Turn to ... Jay’s Pick This Issue: Artist: The Last Minister Album: Acid Jazz Classics Vol. 2 Track: “Feel Free”
When I’m at Apex any time of the year, I truly feel at home. But more importantly, I “feel free” when I’m on my skis and riding the excellent terrain that Apex has to offer, from the steeps and treed areas of the north side, to the beautifully groomed area around the triple chair, to the open spaces on the front side. I have skied many places on this continent and I have to say that Apex is my favourite by far. So, I hope you get the “feel free” feeling like I do when riding at Apex this winter. See you on the slopes very soon, Jay 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.
Great Cabin Recipes
CatMatch
Roasted Pumpkin Crostini
By Dee Martens As the summer ends, it’s time for us to change our thinking from sunshine, watermelon and popsicles to … PUMPKIN! If you’re like me, you love celebrating the coming of fall and all of it’s glory ... fallen leaves, Halloween, pumpkin everything (did I say that already?) and cooler weather. It also means that the ski season is just around the corner! For this recipe you’ll need: 1 medium sugar pumpkin, peeled, seeded and cut into cubes, 1 onion diced small, 3 tbsp. olive oil, ¼ cup fresh sage leaves (dried is sufficient too), 1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar, 4 chopped garlic cloves, salt and pepper to taste (I love adding more pepper than normal to pumpkin dishes!), I baguette, extra olive oil for brushing baguettes, and 6 oz. softened goats cheese. Place the cubes of pumpkin, cut onion, balsamic vinegar, oil, garlic and sage into a large baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper and toss pumpkin in the oil. Roast for 25-30 minutes at 450 degrees. You want the pumpkin to be soft, but not too mushy. Don’t worry too much about browning or sticking of pumpkin on the bottom of the pan, this adds depth of flavour and sweetness that is unparalleled. Slice your fresh baguette and brush the slices with olive oil. Place on baking sheet and broil them until they become golden brown. Be careful here, you don’t want to burn the bread, but you also want to make sure that it is crispy and crunchy, so that the pumpkin does not cause it to go soggy. Once the bread is toasted, spread softened goats cheese on slices and top with roasted pumpkin and serve. If you’re looking to add some flare, pumpkin seeds and/or sage leaves make great garnish. Feel free to drizzle with balsamic vinegar too!
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September 2017
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Answer Key on Page 20
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September 2017
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