February 12, 2013

February-March 2013

BigWhite magazine

Big

White

WORLD Come celebrate a first class life with a world class view.

2.

February, 2013

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big white magazine | february 2013

Big White Magazine is published by The Capital News, a division of Black Press, located at 2495 Enterprise Way, Kelowna, B.C. V1X 7K2.

17,000 magazines are delivered monthly to Big White Ski Resort.

22

For information on the Big White Magazine or how the Capital News can produce a special publication for your business, please contact our office at:

14 inside:

Old World Charm

MAIN SWITCHBOARD 250-763-3212

World Snow Day

CLASSIFIEDS 250-763-7114 1-800-787-3308

Horse-drawn sleigh rides............................................. 4

Promoting snow sports for children............................... 8

Powder Hound passes

Canine ID tags free.................................................... 10

Events and Activities

‌at Canada's Favourite Family Resort ..............12-13

On top of the world

A Big White proposal ................................................ 14

8

Chef Profile

Christopher Thomas of 6 Degrees ............................... 16

Absolut World

BigWhite February-March 2013

ma gaz ine

FAX LINES Newsroom: 250-763-8469 Sales: 250-862-5275 EMAIL: Newsroom: edit@kelownacapnews.com jsmith@kelownacapnews.com Production Department: prod@kelownacapnews.com WEBSITE www.kelownacapnews.com GENERAL ADVERTISING REGULATIONS

Cocktail competition................................................ 18

Kids after dark

Entertainment for the younger set ............................ 21

Australia Day

This newspaper reserves the right to reject any advertising which it considers to contain false or misleading information or involves unfair or unethical practices. The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for any damages arising out of error in classified, classified display or retail display advertisement in which the error is due to the negligence of its servants or otherwise for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisements.

It's an annual tradition .......................................... 22

On the front cover‌ This issue reveals the world of winter fun unfolding on the mountain.

Come on out and join us.

Big White

WO RL D

life with a world class Come celebrate a first class

BIG WHITE SKI RESORT PHOTO

view.

Member of the British Columbia Press Council

4.

February, 2013

“Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling too...”

Old World

charm & tradition

JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO

Horse-drawn sleigh ride

by Jennifer Smith

Everyone knows the classic Christmas carol Sleigh Ride, but when the decorative lights come down and Santa heads back up north, it’s finally time to enjoy the world of winter activities, uninterrupted by shopping and dinners and the hustle and bustle of our hectic modern life.

Jim Long has found a way to bring us back to basics with a sleigh ride through a snow-covered forest.

All winter, Long brings our guests on little adventures, adding breakfasts and dinners and the odd

special event to his regular roster of one hour and half hour tours.

This Valentine’s Day, for example, he and his Clydesdales—either Tom and Jerry or Doc and Bud— will take a few lucky lovers out for

breakfast, and ferry those who book a steakhouse dinner around for a particularly special evening in the snow.

Standing at 17-and-one-hand tall, and weighing in at roughly a

tonne per animal, there’s no missing the magnificent creatures he pulls up in front of the Happy Valley Day Lodge with and the touch of romance they bring to a day is Continued on page 6

5.

BigWhitemagazine

Harry is SOLD SOLD on Big White!

To view VIRTUAL TOURS of these listings go to

www.harrypettit.com

Harry Pettit

‘Your Big White Specialist’

1

#

#122 WHITEFOOT LODGE

LOWEST PRICED CONDO ON THE MOUNTAIN - Terrific studio situated right on the Village Plaza. Bldg has grocery & liquor store, medical center, restaurants, hot tub.

Condo fees incl. utilities. MLS 10051481.

Priced at $49,900

#2-205 STONEBRIDGE

UBELIEVABLE PRICE in stunning Stonebridge Lodge for this luxury 2 bdrm Village Centre Plaza loc - ground zero for the best ski in/ out on the hill. Top quality furn. & fin. Granite counters, 9ft clgs, slate tile & timber accents, priv. hot tub on deck. Bldg has pool & fitness center. Short stroll to all the mtn restaurants & shopping. MLS 10057641. Only $269,900.

#2 & 6 GRIZZLY RIDGE

Reduced $140,000! Gorgeous, new, 3 bdrm townhouse backs onto Serwa’s Run. Super ski in/ out. Gourmet kitchen. Stainless appliance pkg.

Washer dryer. Hrdwd flrs & granite pkg available.

9 ft clgs. Sensational views. Private heated garage.

Huge covered deck ready for hot tub. LOW STRATA FEES. MLS 10053298 & 10056684 Only $259,900 to $269,900 (w/granite & hardwood)

Sales at BIG WHITE in

for the past 11 Years! **

Call me anytime for Big White Real Estate info:

250-717-7440 email: harry@harrypettit.com www.harrypettit.com

#120-1060 Manhattan Dr. Kelowna, BC V1Y 9X9

#101 COPPER KETTLE

STUNNING top-of-the-line 4 bd/3 bath corner view unit, 1750 sf. Situated right on the slope. True ski in & out from your door - 5 steps and you are skiing.

Fab kitch w/granite counters & sit up eating bar, top-of-the-line appl incl gas range. Huge lvg rm w/ wet bar & games area. Beaut. cork & slate flrng.

Walk out to hot tub on priv cov deck overlooking the ski runs. MLS 10052955 Asking $529,000

#10 THE EDGE-REDUCED $409,000

STUNNING ARCHITECTURE! 3 Bdrm + den.

Fully furnished. World class design in this 1/2 duplex. Nothing left out. Finest on the hill.

The best contemporary furniture package.

Geothermal heating. Private garage. 25ft ceilings. Open plan. Over 2000 sq.ft. MLS 10039086 Now only $590,000

#107/107A SUNDANCE RESORT

2 bdrm (one is a large studio lock-off) 2 bath at Sundance Resort. Awesome rental possibilities. Stunning southern views. High end furnishing incl. Fantastic ski in/out.

Features heated o/d pool/hot tubs, waterslide, movie theatre, fitness centre, lounge, steam room. Asking $219,000

THE INN AT BIG WHITE

#122 Studio $52,000 Awesome southerly view. HST PAID Village center location.

Beautifully furnished. Studio sleeps 4.

Swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, restaurant & pub. Unlimited owner use.

Condo fees include utilities. MLS 10056828

#2 SILVER TIPS

Fabulous location! Over 2200 sf of luxury living in this 4 bd/3 bath townhome situated right on Serwa’s Run. The best ski in/out. Absolutely topof-the-line finishing throughout. Gorgeous kit w/granite counters/sit up eating bar. Beautifully furn. Hot tub on the deck. Huge loft area. Garage & carport. 12 min stroll on level night-lit trail to the village center. MLS 10052355 Only $450,000

#72 SUNDANCE RESORT

Stunning 3 bdrm townhouse w/incredible ski in/out location. Situated on the slopes at Sundance Resort. The best in quality & cratsmanship. Designer kitchen w/granite counters, amazing wet bar. Wood floors, hot tub on deck. 2 car garage. MLS 10024892 Reduced $170,000!! Now only $419,900

LOWEST PRICED 2 BDRM CONDOS ON THE HILL!

5977D Snow Pines Cres - $98,500 & 5891D Snow Pines Cres - $99,900. Both nicely furn. & decorated.

High vltd clg w/floor-to-clg windows. Faces south great views. Superb loc. Ski in/out. Walk to village on night lit trail. Ready to go. Shows great! Just bring your boards! MLS 10038531 & 10053280

#301 CHATEAU BIG WHITE

BEST LOCATION ON THE MOUNTAIN! Super sized studio condo over 600 sf. Feat full kit w/dishwasher & dining area. Flat screen TV. Gas fp. Sleeps 6. Pull down queen murphy bed & queen bed + sofa bed. Awesome ski in/ out loc on the Village Plaza beside Plaza chairlift. Right across from grocery store, restaurants, kids’ center.

Stroll to all mountain amenities. Bldg. has restaurant, spa & hot tub. MLS 10055820 Listed at $114,900

#2-5950 SNOWPINE CRES.

You won’t find a better deal than this spacious 3 bd/2 bath condo. Best lot in Snowpine Estates! Backs right on a run. Walk 2 paces off the back deck & you are skiing! Lg windows to enjoy the fab views. Nicely updated & fin. Gas fp, lg. master bd w/huge ensuite w/soaker tub. Priv garage w/extra parking for 3 more cars. Sit. beside night-lit trail to Village Center. Very low condo fees. Only $229,900 MLS 10049637

#33 TREE TOPS

LOWEST PRICED FULLY FURNISHED, HST PAID. Spacious 2 bd + den/loft (or 3rd bd) townhouse. Beautifully finished & furn. Just under 1700 sf. Huge kitchen w/sit-up eating bar, 2 storey rock-faced gas fp in living rm.

Hardwood flooring, 3 full baths. Great ski in/ out location. MLS 10047808 Only $259,900

#11 BLACK BEAR

Best buy by far! Huge 1950 sf 3 bed/3 bath townhouse. Post & beam const. Beaut furn & decorated. Unbelievable master bdrm! Hot tub on deck. Lg cov’d patio. 2 cov’d parking stalls.

Ski in/out. Strata fees incl hot water & gas for fp that heats virtually the whole townhouse. MLS 10056514 Priced at $319,000

#208-208A SUNDANCE RESORT

Corner unit 3 bd (one is a lg studio lock-off) 3 bath at Sundance Resort. Awesome rental possibilities. Stunning southern views. High end furn incl. Fantastic ski in/out. Feat heated o.d. pool/hot tubs, waterslide, movie theatre, fitness center, lounge, steam room. HST PAID! MLS 10056547 REDUCED TO $299,000

#311 CHATEAU ON THE RIDGE

AMAZING PRICE for this corner unit 4 bdrm + den/2 bath condo. Amazing southerly views.

Superb village location for the best ski in/out.

Includes all furniture. Spacious living room off the kitchen. Separate family room/den for the kids. In unit laundry. Hot tub just outside the door. Asking $199,000

WHITE CRYSTAL INN

#218/220 - 2 BEDROM REDUCED $49,500.

Very deluxe. Fantastic rentals. Show suite condition. Beautifully finished & furn. 2 gas fireplaces. Terrific ski in/out location in the heart of the Village Plaza. Bldg. has exterior hot tub,sauna, restaurant/bar. Great rentals.

MLS 10056971 $179,500

4821A SNOWPINE

Spacious 2 bdrm/2 bath townhome with BSMT SUITE. Suite could rent for $7000/ season. Hot tub on deck. Fantastic views of Monashee Mtns! Very nicely furnished/ decorated. Parking for 2. Easy ski in/out.

MLS 10036745 Only $199,900. HST PAID

#17 BULLET CREEK CABIN

Lowest priced Chalet in the village! Over 2100 sf 3 bd w/fully fin walk-out bsmt. Enjoy the hot tub on the deck & the fab views of Monashee Mtns.

Beaut. furnished & finished. Huge vltd clg in the lvgrm/dngrm. Rock faced gas fp. Fam rm, games rm, loft/den. This will make a wonderful home on the hill. MLS 10052194 Priced at $398,900

#27 TREE TOPS

STUNNING 3 level, 3 bedroom townhome with middle level loft/bedroom. 1690 sq.ft.

Beautifully furnished & decorated. 2 storey rock-faced fireplace in living rm. Ski in/out.

Private hot tub. 3 full baths have heated tile floors. Covered parking. MLS 10036600. NOW JUST $269,900

4814D SNOWPINES RD.

CHECK THE PRICE FOR THE SIZE! This one has it all - size, location & awesome price! Lots of room for family & friends. This 1700sqft 4 bdrm/3 bath townhouse feat great ski in/out. Spac entertainer’s kitchen. Lg living rm w/huge vltd clg, gas fp, walk-out to deck & hot tub. Lg sauna. Fantastic views. Beaut furn & fin. MLS 10047023 Just $249,500

#312 THE ASPENS REDUCED $90,000!

Top of the line 2 bdrm/2 bath “Aspens” condo.

Corner unit. Right on the run. Stunning views.

Granite counters, hardwood & heated tile flooring. Wine storage & fridge. Beautifully furnished & decorated. Hot Tub on deck. MLS 10048384 Only $269,900

#301 TAMARACK

LOWEST PRICED 3 BEDROOM ON THE HILL! Updated corner 2 bath unit incl built-in sauna w/ shower! Nicely furnished & decorated. Room for family & friends. Kitchen cabinets, countertops all custom-made. Large boot room area. Heated entry floor. Great village location for ski in/out.

Short stroll to all the mountain’s amenities. MLS 10051408 Reduced to $155,000

4826C SNOWPINES RD.

What a deal! Really nice 2 bedroom/2 bath unit. Sleeps 8 comfortably. Features large sunken lvgrm, gas frpl, large kitchen with all appliances. Fully furnished. Hot tub. Beautiful views. Huge boot room for all the gear. Ski in/ out. MLS 10057258 Only $168,500

* * B A S E D O N # O F O K A N A G A N M A I N L I N E R E A L E S TAT E B O A R D M L S S A L E S AT B I G W H I T E F R O M J A N 1 , 2 0 0 2 T O D E C . 3 1 , 2 0 1 2

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December, 2012

Continued from page 4 spectacular.

“Belgians are the strong ones.

Percherons are a good horse.

Clydes, what they lack in strength they make up for in just eye appeal.

They’re just a classy looking animal,” said Long.

Long is somewhat of an expert on sleigh rides. Although he’s only been at Big White for the last seven years, spending roughly 125-130 days on the slopes, he’s been riding behind horses like these his entire life.

“I guess the first I remember was my dad going to pick up my sister from school,” he said. “We just had horses. So a sleigh ride at home meant you were just doing something. Out working.”

Long was raised in the Canadian Badlands and, like any good cowboy, he isn’t one to expend energy

JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO

Sleigh Ride

Clydesdale horses Tom and Jerry play a little game of cat and mouse, matching one another stride for stride as they tackle their tours. on words, particularly on himself.

But he knows how to entertain, offering pancakes or a rib and chicken barbecue in a woodsy cab-

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in for those who would like to take a little time out on the hill.

And he knows how to train a group to enjoy an afternoon, day or even an overnight trip in the lifestyle he grew up enjoying.

Stationed just outside Red Deer, Alberta for the bulk of the year, his primary vocation sees him organizing authentic covered wagon tours—day, overnighter and multiday trips on an abandoned rail bed.

He has 12 wagons with wooden wheels and wooden seats and he trains those who come out to run the wagons themselves.

Prior to landing his Big White gig through an advertisement in a

horse magazine, he would throw in a few hayrides in for extra income, a sleigh ride in the winter.

“Jack of all trades master of none,” he says when asked about his vocation. “I never could settle into much.”

Long built the 16-seater sleigh he uses on the mountain himself.

Some of the parts are 100 years old, just pieces he was already using, he explains.

He is nonplussed by any query about why he likes working with his horses, why he chooses to work in the fields—cultivating, seeding, cutting hay—with them over machines that might work faster.

Taste the Love in every bite!

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7.

BigWhitemagazine

"It's just the way the good Lord painted them" says Jim Long of his beloved Clydesdales Tom & Jerry's uniquely coloured legs “Well, it’s just what you do,” he says. “I like the horses. Ask anybody with horses, they’ll tell you.”

Long’s particular pick of horse is a special one.

Clydesdales are originally Scottish. Developed in the early 1800s, they’re draught horses derived from farm horses in the Clydesdale area of Scotland, and their tack includes a regal neckpiece called a scotch top. Originally ornamented with the family crest, it showcased for anyone coming upon the sleigh.

Today the scotch top really just protects the animal from the elements such that when the sleigh points into the weather, the Tom and Jerry’s of this world have a dry warm neck.

Looking down at their legs, the distinctive white covered hooves, seemingly fitted in knee-high fur moccasins one might term mittens if these were cats, often include a

$

brown leg in pair more of the mix. a match set Tom and and thereJerry, brothfore more ers, each valuable; have a brown but the effect left leg, alas they are is thuogh there still breathis no genetic taking. significance GlistenLong insists. ing in the “It’s just snow on a the way the warm wingood Lord ter day, their painted legs appear them,” he to dance says. “There across the are four legs white carpet and two coin front of lours and them, first Jim Long sometimes a dark leg, JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO that’s just then a white. what you wind up with.”

Steady as they go.

Were one of the brothers to have Tom and Jerry are huge when a brown right leg it would make the compared with a saddle horse,

but they’re still a good six to eight inches shorter than the Budweiser Clydesdales that have so famously inspired a donkey to try hair extensions on his lower legs in one commercial and jumped the Grand Canyon in the name of love in another.

As this year’s Superbowl spot reminded those who watched—to the tune of Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide, no less—one can follow the famous Clydesdales on Twitter, if one so desires.

This seems quite comical when confronted with the silent beauties checking out the pink Lululemon athletica bags of those milling about the mountain ice rink they call home each winter.

If you’re looking for a real deal experience with a horse-drawn sleigh and the Clydesdales, it’s far better just to join Long and his companions on our trails.

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8.

February, 2013

WORLD Snow ❆ Day International movement to promote snow sports for children by Jennifer Smith

JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO

BIG WHITE SKI RESORT PHOTO

enough to reach your mom’s waist, you are exactly the type of person this new global day of celebration is intended to attract.

Conjured up by the International Ski Federation to begin in 2012, World Snow Day saw 435 organizers in 39 countries stage unique events this year to bring children and their families into a fun, friendly environment to celebrate a healthy, active lifestyle in the snow.

Meet Nova Tobin, (above) the shining star who At Norway’s Apen Bakke, this meant rode our mountain this month, acting as a perfect example 120,000 people were skiing and snowboardof why we celebrate World Snow Day. ing for free while in Iceland, “feel like a If you can carve your own run before you are tall champion day” saw 250 kids playing in the

glorious fluffy white powder in conjunction with the ladies’ FIS Alpine World Cup races.

Officially marked on Jan. 20, World Snow Day follows on the heels of the SnowKidz campaign, which encouraged FIS Member National Ski Associations to promote snow sports. Adding World Snow Day takes the campaign outside the FIS Member Nations to attract any country that has snow and wants to encourage physical activity.

“What we saw on the 2nd World Snow Day is nothing short of spectacular. The dedication and creativity of the local organizers has been Continued on page 10

We help bring the thrill of the slopes at Big White to people with physical disabilities.

Please consider supporting us, and you’ll be rewarded by the best smiles in the world.

250-861-3302

www.pimbc.ca

9.

BigWhitemagazine

Performing collision repair and windshield replacements to all makes and models for 38 years.

When accidents happen see the experts at‌ Online at www.jacobsencollision.com 1110 Leathead Road Kelowna Collision Centre

250.860.7788

10.

February, 2013

Does your powder hound need a pass?

by Jennifer Smith

For the first time, Big White is offering up ski passes for the family pet, complete with pup’s name and owner’s phone number. The first photos were taken on Jan. 26 and dogs like Moby (left) are now all sporting the little cards.

Anyone who has met the handsome fellow for even a moment can attest he enjoys a good romp in the cold; snow has a way of making all of us get a little carried away from time to time.

The pass adds just one more backup plan to ensure getting carried away doesn’t end in disaster and the first dog in line was Yoho the St. Bernard (above). The breed is known for rescues, afterall.

Anyone who would like a free Dog Pass for a furry best friend is welcome to talk to the tickets desk in the Village Centre Mall. Alternatively, one can email a photo to tickets@bigwhite.com and include a name and contact phone number.

World Snow Day Continued from page 8

Two weeks before his second birthday Blake Thompson and his dad, Tyrone Thompson, spent an afternoon practicing. outstanding and our sincere congratulations go to all of them,” said FIS president Gian Franco Kasper.

Altogether 300,000 people around the world took place in World Snow Day events, meaning little people like Blake Thompson (above), not yet two and already on skis on Big White, will have plenty of

JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO

JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO

Fluffy fido can now enjoy bounding through the snow with a little backup plan.

playmates to join him as he grows into a winter sports enthusiast.

Where will you be next January as the celebration hits its stride in year three? We have a suggestion.

Two words. First word: The size of this hill. Second word: the colour of that gleaming dusting of winter fun the entire world is celebrating.

11.

BigWhitemagazine

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Don’t just toss the keys to your home or business to the first restoration company you find in the phone book, get to know Stutters before you need us. Every employee at stutters undergoes a criminal record check – Peace-of-mind!

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12.

February, 2013

BigWhitemagazine

13.

14.

February, 2013

On top of the World!

by Jennifer Smith

It was her first time…

making it to the top of the T-bar, a shining moment for any snowboarder, particularly when he pulled out the ring…

Shaylene Ouellette will always remember the day her fiancé, Andrew Raisanen got down on one knee in the snow, a blustery wind whipping around them, to ask her the big question.

And should she ever forget, there’s a video.

So well planned was Raisanen’s proposal, he managed to bring a group of their friends along to mark the occasion, and film the shock on her face as she turned back to check

that he was taking pictures of the view and found him on one knee with her ring waiting.

“He told me that we were going out with two other couples and their children for a ski weekend. It just seemed like something we would do,” said Ouellette, whose time off falls mid-week, bringing them to their destination of choice on Thursday, Jan. 17.

In fact, it took a good deal of planning, a couple of drinks over

lunch (for courage) and a trip back to their condo to make sure the cameraman had his good equipment in hand when Raisanen finally picked the spot.

“I wanted to be at the top of the mountain with as much background as you could see,” he said. “It was just the perfect day, you could see all the mountains, so I just wanted to be up high.”

Ouellette and Raisanen are high school sweethearts who managed

to capture the flame a second time after a cross-country move forced them apart.

The pair started dating while still in Grade 8, attending George Elliott Secondary School in Lake Country.

Ouellette then left the Okanagan Valley, moving to Lethbridge, Alberta,and did not return for eight years. Nevertheless, she kept in touch with Raisanen as they graduated high school and moved on to adult life. And after another long-term re-

15.

BigWhitemagazine

PHOTOS BY CHRIS McRAE PHOTOGRAPHY

lationship he was in came to an end, they began chatting online.

“I think I did think we would maybe get back together one day. I don’t know if he did, but I kept in touch just to check in and see how he was doing,” she said.

Virtually the day she arrived back in town, the pair were back together.

And five-and-a-half years later, they’re now getting ready for a walk to the altar and a life where they’ll never be too far apart again.

“I’m kind of in shock of the whole thing,” said Ouellette. “I just wasn’t expecting it.”

Aside from the big proposal, the day was also Ouellette’s first time making it up the T-bar lift and, as the weather changed, she felt she wasn’t going to be able to make

the trek even one more time. So he picked his moment wisely.

The bride-to-be hasn’t seen the video, but has heard it’s a little tough to hear what’s happening with the wind sweeping past their heads.

“You can see the body language and that I think speaks louder than words,” she said, adding “I think I asked him to pinch me at one point.”

It will likely be a couple of years before there is a Ouellette and Raisanen wedding. For now, this is a big enough step to keep the couple on their toes.

“We’ve been together for almost six years and I kind of just felt it was time,” said Raisanen. “It was a really special day for both of us, so I’m glad it went well and everyone managed to keep the secret.”

16.

February, 2013

Global flair for BigWhite fare

by Jennifer Smith

Chef Christopher Thomas has cooked in the polar bear capital of the world and the arid plains of Arizona, but his taste for global cuisine comes from working under the big top that would be acceptable for these very finicky performers,” he said. “…With the big tent there’s a show on every continent at any given time and that’s 120 performers, with meals twice a day.”

Moving from La Joya, California to Long Beach to Philadelphia, Cincinnati to St. Louis, Dubia, Shanghai, Seoul and Guadalajara, one needs to develop a transition plan.

Thomas soon figured out ways to trade dress rehearsal tickets for top chefs’ knowledge of go-to vendors.

The evidence of his success is in the culinary creations at 6 Degrees.

“When you look at the menu, you might think there’s a bit of an identity crisis there, but 99 per cent of the dishes that are on it are there because I’ve been taught by the best or I’ve seen it done,” said Thomas.

He learned to make tuna tartare in Japan and proper braised barbecue in Phoenix. This year, the menu is focused on Classic Italian and Mediterranean influences, thanks to a trip he took to the region with his girlfriend. During his four months off this summer, he will do a coast to coast adventure to see what Canada has to offer and it’s likely to add a few more new flavours to his kitchen’s offering in 2014.

For now, his biggest recommendation is to book a reservation before heading to 6 Degrees for din-

ner; the establishment fills to the gills each night and seats only 30 people.

JENNIFER SMITH PHOTO

Christopher Thomas didn’t run away with the circus, though a monstrously good resumé brought the circus to him.

Born and raised in Sudbury, Ontario—the same place his boss, 6 Degrees Bistro Restaurant owner John Mooney is from—Thomas was in the kitchen cooking with his grandmother right from the age of 16.

“I come from a big background of foodies. My dad’s a pretty good cook. My brother is a chef. I’ve got a cousin who is a chef as well,” said Thomas.

Like any good tradesperson, he started at the bottom, scrubbing in the dish pit and working his way into a respectable career he now thoroughly enjoys.

Then one day, while working for the Santa Barbara Catering Company at The Farm at South Mountain, he got the call.

Cirque du Soleil had seen his resume posted on the online job board Workopolis and offered him a life under the big top working with the show Quidam, pioneering new cities for the acrobatic circus to add to their list of hot spots.

“Basically, I was working from scratch. I would have to crack the language barrier, source out food

17.

BigWhitemagazine

Find Your Place on the Mountain!

Tamara Terlesky

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250-717-5000 PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

#212 - 20 Kettle View Road

FANTASTIC SKI-IN/SKI-OUT & steps to the Village. 2 bedrooms/1012 sq.ft. Owner lockoff in unit & balcony. Hottub, ski storage & U/G parkade in the Ptarmigan Inn. Excellent rental revenue potential through Central Reservations. Asking $169,900. MLS 10053786

#A-4907 Snow Pine Road

UPPER HALF OF DUPLEX with expansive mountain view! Main level has 2 bdrms w/rooms rented for the ski season & upper loft with Master Bedroom, spacious ensuite & lounge area with view through extensive windows. One of the few homes with a double garage. Owner will sell cleaning business if her property is sold. Asking $355,000. MLS 10057202

#19 - 165 Kettle View Road

PRIME UPPER LEVEL Legend townhome with easy ski-in/ski-out & a short walk to the Village Centre!

Features a bright open concept w/ vaulted ceilings, 2 fireplaces, 3 bdrms, 3 baths, 2 decks, private hottub & 2-car garage. Asking $429,000. MLS 10043829

#4866 Snow Pine Road

FREESTANDING CHALET ideal for year round use! Attached garage, studio suite & HST paid! Paved parking, landscaped yard, covered deck with hottub & fantastic wood fireplace. 4 bdrms, ski storage, ski-in/ski-out. Asking $509,000. MLS 1051857

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION Large 1 bedroom home with great ski in & out access. Fully equipped & ready to enjoy, set up to sleep 10 people comfortably. Stone fireplace, steam shower, new 60-gal. hot water tank, new roof. Underground parking stall large enough for 2 cars. HST has been paid and doesn’t apply to the sale. MLS 10052171

EASY SKI GETAWAY: Steps to the Village & chairlift. 362 sq.ft. studio & The Inn! Housekeeping services, pool, hottub, u/g parkade, fitness room, Carver’s Restaurant & Pub. Asking $50,500. MLS 10056027

#204 - 6430 Whiskey Jack Road

250-717-5000 #810 Moguls - $154,900

#235-5340 Big White Road

BEST LOCATION IN SNO GHOST with view of ski run! 505 sq.ft. condo with balcony & wood fireplace. Tile & hardwood flooring. Kitchenette. Right on the ski run! Seasonal renters until April 14th. Asking $79,900. MLS 10057576

Ken Mitchell

#4826D Snow Pines Price Reduced, Now $159,900

$339,900

Located in the heart of the village at Big White this 3 bedroom Condo in Stonebridge features spectacular views of the Monashee Mountains. Stonebridge units feature the highest quality from finishings to furnishings. MLS® $185,000

Great one bedroom and den in the Grizzly Lodge, located in the heart of the village at Big White. The Grizzly Lodge offers good ski in/ski out access, great rental, common area with seating, fireplace, pool table, hot tub and sauna. MLS®

$269,900

Snowcrest Village in the heart of the Village at Big White Ski Resort!

Great townhome boasting room for the whole family, featuring an open plan, that is perfect for enjoying the après ski with family and friends. MLS®

$209,900

Great one bedroom townhome in the heart of the village. This Trappers Crossing unit features great village location, ski in and ski out, a private hot tub and great views. Trappers Crossing offers some of the best rental units at Big White. MLS®

$249,900

Top floor 2 bedroom unit in Sundance Lodge at Big White.

This unit is the ultimate in rental opportunity, featuring a studio lock-off allowing for 3 different layouts to rent the unit. Sundance features all the amenities you could want. EXCLUSIVE

In like new condition this spacious 2 bedroom home has stone floors in the foyer, ceramic tile in the dining room & kitchen, wall-to-wall in the bedrooms.

Fully furnished & ready to enjoy with family and friends. Great mountain view with 2 parking stalls and good ski in and out access. New roof this summer with a 10 Yr. warranty. MLS 10052593

Lot #1 North - $475,00

0.29 acre of R5 land good for 3 units right on the Speculation Ski Run, surrounded by high end townhouses. Unobstructed views and fabulous ski access to and from the doors of whatever is built. Walk to everything in the village, including restaurants, pubs, ski shops, ski rentals, day care, ticket office, spas, bakery and coffee shops. This is a great opportunity for some friends to build just what they want in a great location. The seller will look at anything that doesn’t eat in trade. MLS 10056518

#114 Whitefoot Lodge $49,900 Great weekend retreat that can be rented when you aren’t using it yourself. No better location on the mountain for convenience right in the heart of everything with fabulous ski in and out access. MLS 10057304

#308/308A Sundance Lodge Reduced to $299,900, HST paid

3 bdrm 3 bath corner unit looking at the Monashee Mtns has flexible rental potential as a self contained studio suite can be locked off. Most amenities on the mountain, outdoor pool, slide & hot tub, theatre, fitness room & concierge. Located next to the Bullet chair the ski in & out access is fabulous as well as walking distance to the Village centre with the pubs, restaurants, grocery store, ski rental shops & other shopping. Fully furnished and equipped with everything to just come & enjoy. MLS 1005602

#307/309 Chateau Big White - $198,000

Top floor 2 bdrm, 2 bath at the top of the Plaza Chair. 2 gas fireplaces, fully furnished & equipped with a great view of the village. Walk to the restaurants, pubs, shops, ticket office, day care & coffee shops. Ski to & from the door. A super place to enjoy when you want and take advantage of excellent rentals when you’re not using it. Nothing more convenient on the mountain. MLS 10055461

18.

March, 2012

Big White’s Absolut World bartender competition

Shaken &

White dinners may be sweeping the globe, bringing foodies to tables in their finest whites for culinary flash mob-esque picnics, but the

BIG WHITE SKI RESORT PHOTOS

throws a few rocks into an epic powder season

mountain has enough white to last for months this year. So, we took our pallette to the next level and went clear instead.

Heading to the hill on the very first weekend in February, bartenders from across British Columbia got their chance to compete with one of

the classics—Absolut Vodka.

The cocktails were flowing and the sliders stacked high as Vancouver’s Grant Sceney, of the Fairmont

Absolut Vodka ambassador Jacob Sweetapple (left) congratulates the winner, Grant Sceney.

BigWhitemagazine

Stirred Pacific Rim Hotel, picked up first spot with an Absolut Beta cocktail, a combination of citrus and basil.

Director of Snow Sports Josh Foster served as a judge alongside Rod Butters of RauDZ (one of Kelowna’s top eateries), PR gal Allison Markin, of All She Wrote, and Casey Wilson representing Absolut.

Over 200 people managed to make it out for the mixology magic,

sipping wine, spirits and craft beers while tasting an array of treats from Kelowna’s new grocer, Urban Fare, The BullWheel and Kettle Valley Steakhouse.

The runners up included Gez McAlpine and Keenan Hood of Keefer Bar in Vancouver, who finished second and fourth respectively. Justin Darnes from George Lounge in Vancouver took third place.

19.

20.

February, 2013

www.bigwhiterealestate.com Peter MacLeod 250-212-7090 Steve Nicoll 250-470-7011 We live here, we work here, we play here, we know the mountain.

The only full-time, year-round real estate company at Big White.

Since 1996.

sold

FORECLOSURE $155,000 3 bedroom, 3 bath, can sleep 10.

Upper unit in Snowpines. Vacant.

Only $155,000. MLS 10056938

BEST PRICE AT $179,000 New listing 4 bedroom and den, two bath top floor apt. in village. Best price at $179,000. MLS 10058281

TREETOPS FORECLOSURE $239,000 Two bedroom, three bath townhome, end unit, private hot tub, plus den. Vacant. MLS 10056927

VILLAGE 1/2 DUPLEX $139,000 Two bedrooms plus extra large rumpus room. Can sleep 8 easily. On ski run. Must sell! $139,000.

LEGENDS LUXURY $369,500

SILVER TIP LANDING $359,000

SNOWY CREEK LODGE $389,000

FEATHERTOP ESTATES FROM $59,000 Village building lots now reduced! No time limit to build and use your own builder. LOW low strata fees of only $33/month. MLS 10049890

SUNRAY CHALET $899,000

HAPPY VALLEY $260,000 Two bedroom, top floor, very upscale. Reduced to $260,000.

MLS 10053928

FORECLOSURE Three bedroom plus loft, 2000 sq. feet, upscale condo unit in 6 plex.

Mountain views, granite countertops.

MLS 10057573

CASCADES TOWNHOMES NEW, FROM $259,900 Three bedrooms, two bath, private garage , fireplace, views. Great buys.

MLS 10053298

WINTERIDGE $135,000 Top floor condo, two bedrooms, facing onto Perfection ski run. Fully furnished, vacant. Only $135,000.

MLS 10055929

STONEGATE LODGE $339,000

WHITEFOOT LODGE $149,000

GLACIER LODGE $274,900

Beautifully appointed 3 bedroom and den condo in the Legacy awaits you! Over 1800 sq ft, many upgrades, quality furnishings, lots of storage, right on the ski run, nice southern view. Covered parking for 2 vehicles, 2 decks, hot tub, who could want more? HST is paid, too!

An exceptional buy. MLS 10056953. Contact Steve Nicoll at 250-470-7011 or gswnicoll@gmail.com.

In Whiteforest Estates. Custom chalet.

6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 18 ft. vaulted ceilings in LR. Over 3500 sq.ft.

Outstanding quality. MLS 10057240

Ski run at your back door, comfortable luxury inside. All the comforts of home in this 3 bedroom townhouse in Silver Tip Landing. Live the good life, soak in your hot tub, sip wine with friends, all here. Garage and carport, vaulted ceilings, 2.5 baths, great for entertaining or relaxing after skiing. HST paid. MLS 10058740. Contact Steve Nicoll at 250-470-7011 or gswnicoll@gmail.com.

Beautifully appointed 2 bedroom, 2 bath luxury condo located right across from the Village Plaza. Stonegate features an extensive list of amenities including theater, pool, kids games room, lounge, coffee bar and more.

Private hot tub on deck looking up to the ski runs.

Reduced price of $339,000. MLS 10039698. Contact Steve Nicoll at 250-470-7011 or gswnicoll@gmail.com.

A stone’s throw to the Bullet Chair, a lovely mountain view and a short walk to the Village Plaza enhance the value of this 3 bedroom and loft townhouse. Tandem garage, 3 full baths, large loft, fully furnished, almost 1800 sq ft of chalet-style decor with beamed and vaulted ceilings. A real ski home for you. MLS 10053244 Contact Steve Nicoll at 250-470-7011 or gswnicoll@gmail.com.

Check out the modern full kitchen in this 2 bedroom top floor condo with view to the Monashee Mountains. Right in the heart of Big White, just steps to everything that happens.

Will sleep 7, has excellent rental potential. Building has been updated recently with new windows and exterior. Price reduced for quick sale. MLS 10043371. To view call Steve Nicoll at 250-470-7011 or gswnicoll@gmail.com.

Modern in style, casual in feeling, this top floor corner 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo is just a few steps to skiing.

Granite counters, shaker cabinets, hardwood floors, large deck with hot tub and some mountain view invite you to call this unit home. HST partially paid. Reduced to $274,900. MLS 10045837. To view contact Steve Nicoll at 250-470-7011 or gswnicoll@gmail.com.

www.mountainrealty.ca | phone 250-765-1577 | toll free 1-877-765-1577

21.

BigWhitemagazine

World class surfer

Barton Lynch was spotted riding the Big White wave on the hill last month.

Big White Ski Resort PHOTO

Lynch was named the Association of Surfing Professionals World Surfing Champion in 1988 and co-hosted an Australian television surf show. He was also inducted into the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame in 1998 and the country’s sports hall of fame in 2000.

One look at him carving down the mountain and it’s pretty clear there’s a few transferable skills in the mix.

Kids After Dark Looking for something for the kids to do at night?

The Kids’ Centre evening programs are intended to provide a fun time for children and also allow parents to enjoy a restaurant outing or sample some of Big White’s night life.

Supervised programming at the Kids’ Centre includes:

w ww

And new this year, Big White has added in snowshoeing as an evening activity for kids 5 years old and up.

MATT BUTTERWORTH PHOTO

- dinner and tubing at the Mega Snow Coaster -hot chocolate and skating - dinner and activities night with board games and movies

.t

re h e J o yo f L i v i n g C e n t • • • • • •

Yoga & Ski INN - ski Big White All Inclusive Yoga Retreat Wellness Programs and Karma Yoga long weekends Your Exclusive Workshops Yoga Teacher Training

250-807-2244

theJoyofLivingCentre@hotmail.ca

.c a

22.

February, 2013

Australia Day on the hill brought out the VegeMite‌

by Jennifer Smith

PHOTO SORT SKI RE E IT H BIG W

What poutine is to French Canadians and peanut butter to many a mom in the Okanagan Valley our favourite friends down under see in this yeast extract spread.

Reputedly the b est cure for a ha ngover, it was originally used to flavour soups and gravies as it’s as salty as it gets.

Thankfully, ou r annual influ x of Aussies do not suffer from this affliction.

Warm, friendly and always lo ts of fun, we joined them in a Big White Aust ra li a Day celebration each year.

Australia Day is the official nati onal day of the country and ce lebrated annua ll y on Jan. 26 to commemorate the arrival of th e F ir st Fleet at Sydney Cove, New So uth Wales in 17 8 8 .

The First Fleet co nsisted of 11 sh ips sent by the British Admiralt y from England to establish a penal colony.

Centuries later we celebrate th is fun-filled country as the ho me of koala bea rs and surfing, UGG boots and the fantastic Syd n ey Opera house.

And many a Big White employee !

Australia is on e of the main countries where our staff come from, and we fr eq uently see others from New Ze aland, the U.K., F rance, Japan, Belgium, Germ any and the Net herlands.

23.

BigWhitemagazine

Done with Valentines?

Ski-A-Thon

Get the guys together for a three-day downhill dudes adventure.

People in Motion is hosting their 1st Annual Ski-A-Thon at the mountain to celebrate 25 years of funding adaptive sports programs for those with physical or sensory disabilities.

People in Motion provides assistance to our Powder Hounds Adaptive Ski Program and are looking to raise $30,000 to mark the birthday.

Lift passes are 25 per cent off and it costs an additional $20 to ski or snowboard with full and half-day options; participants are .asked to collect pledges for the effort. Those who raise $100 in pledges are en-

Spend the first couple of days in an Edge Camp designed specifically for men and follow it up with a snowmobile tour in the backcountry. Add in a scotch tasting with cigars and a steak barbecue at the backcountry hut, then hit Dizzy’s for a boot fitting.

When the day is done, there's also the option of taking a limo to a Kelowna Rockets Hockey Game for a night on the town. Rates start at $5926 for four people inclusive of the above on a three-night stay in a two bedroom suite.

Contact Central Resevations for full details.

tered to win more.

Programming includes adaptive skiing, Kids In Motion Family Fun Day, wheelchair basketball, power wheelchair soccer, adaptive curling and adaptive recreational equipment loans.

To sign up email info@pimbc. ca or call Louise Abbott at 250-8613302

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¥ No payments for 90 days offer applies to finance offers on all new 2013 Fit models, purchased and delivered by February 28th, 2013. Offer available only through Honda Financial Services, on approved credit. Monthly payments are deferred for 90 days. Contracts will be extended accordingly. Interest charges (if any) will not accrue during the first 60 days of the contract. After 60 days, interest (if any) starts to accrue and the purchaser will repay principal and interest (if any) monthly over the term of the contract, but not until 90 days after the contract date. Standard rates do not qualify for deferred payment offer. Offer ends February 28th, 2013 and cannot be combined with any other offers. *Limited time lease offer based on a new 2013 Fit DX MT model GE8G2DEX. #2.99% lease APR for 48 months O.A.C. Monthly payment, including freight and PDI, is $167.92. Downpayment of $1,999.00, first monthly payment, environmental fees and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $10,059.16. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 96,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometer. **MSRP is $16,075 including freight and PDI of $1,495 based on a new 2013 Fit DX MT model GE8G2DEX. PPSA, license, insurance, taxes, and other dealer charges are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. #/*/¥/** Offers valid from February 1st through 28th, 2013 at participating Honda retailers. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid only for British Columbia residents at BC Honda Dealers locations. Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bchonda.com or see your Honda retailer for full details.

24.

February, 2013