Volume 18 Issue 3

VOLUME 18 ISSUE 3

YOURS FREE TO TAKE HOME

MARCH 20 - APRIL 17, 2020

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

STRONG NATIONALS RESULTS FOR TEAM B.C. PRE-CANCELLATION PAGE 16

SD73 TAKES ON GRADES EIGHT AND NINE PAGE 6

COVID-19 shuts ski industry Virus precautions shutter resorts around the world within days COVID-19 COVERAGE IN THIS ISSUE: JEAN STRONG

ON MARCH 16 SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP (SPR) BECAME ONE OF MANY RESORTS AROUND THE WORLD TO ANNOUNCE THEIR CLOSURE DUE TO THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.

The last runs of the season were taken March 18 while SPR worked to organize as smooth of an ending to ski operations as possible.

Food and beverage operations were altered to accept no more than 50 guests at one time, per the recommendation of Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry.

Mountain operated outlets also closed March 18, while locally owned businesses grappled with the sudden change.

SPR staff members received one week of pay at their average weekly rate.

Those who lived in staff accommodation were given until March 25 to vacate.

Those who were unable to return home due to extenuating circumstances were asked to notify their managers for assistance from SPR. Other resorts including Kamloops’ Harper Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, Fernie Mountain Resort, Red Mountain, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

and countless others have closed early or suspended operations.

CMH HeliSkiing and Mike Wiegele Heli-Skiing have both cancelled tours for the end of the season.

In this issue we’ve brought together information our community needs about the pandemic. As we transition to work only from home we can still be reached by phone, email, and social media.

SPIN’s response Page 2 Information and resources Page 2 Health Centre update Page 2 COVID-19 business impacts Page 4 COVID-19 fact check Page 5 Terms to know Page 5 Taking care of your mental health Page 13 Sports cancellations Page 16

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

1

LOCAL NEWS SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS INC. 102-3270 Village Way Sun Peaks BC V0E 5N0

Phone | 250.578.0276 For comments, questions, concerns email: editor@sunpeaksnews.com Email your classifieds or ads to: sales@sunpeaksnews.com

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM @SUNPEAKSNEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

RESOURCES for COVID-19

/SUNPEAKSNEWS SUNPEAKSNEWS @SUNPEAKSNEWS

#SUNPEAKSNEWS #MYSUNPEAKS

Self assessment tool

Healthlink BC

OUR TEAM

Urgent Primary Care Centre for those with moderate to severe symptoms

250-314-2256 COVID-19 toll-free

information line in B.C.

1-888-268-4319 COVID-19 toll-free

Employment Insurance line

www.healthlinkbc.ca PUBLISHER

Brandi Schier

brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

GRAPHIC ARTIST Frankie Knight

EDITOR jean@sunpeaksnews.com

CONTRIBUTORS Courtney Jones Emily Perrins Justin Moore Kyle James Louise Hudson Perri Digby Each issue reaches thousands of readers and one copy is available FREE to residents and visitors. Anyone taking papers in bulk will be prosecuted.

The opinions expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, owners or writers. This publication may not be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher.

1-833-381-2725

Supporting each other in trying times BRANDI SCHIER PUBLISHER’S NOTE

brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

frankie@sunpeaksnews.com

Jean Strong

thrive.health/covid19

WELL, HERE WE ARE. I HAVE PUT OFF WRITING THIS COLUMN UNTIL ALMOST THE LAST MINUTE BEFORE PRINT AS THE WORLD AROUND US CONTINUES TO ALTER IN PREVIOUSLY UNSEEN WAYS. First things first, SPIN will continue to operate to keep the community informed, as we can all appreciate how important local news is at times like these. Our office will be closed to the public, however we are always available through our email, phone and social media channels. We will be here not only to provide important information, but also to bring the community together. The future is incredibly uncertain at this point, but I do have an unwavering faith in our little village to pull together in times of need.

I want to thank the team at Sun Peaks Resort LLP for making the extremely difficult decision to cease ski operations four weeks early, and also for remaining open as long as they felt was possible. When we look back we will see this was the right move.

The tension between protecting our most vulnerable residents and doing our part to stop the spread of COVID-19, while also mitigating the disastrous economic effects of a closure on dozens of small businesses was real, and caused a lot of controversy and anxiety in the community.

But now is the time to move forward together as best we can. As hundreds of young international staff try to make travel arrangements home under extreme conditions, as business owners decide to close their doors and slash their operating expenses, and as full time residents look forward to the complete unknown, we have to

help each other out as much as possible.

It’s been a wild ride of a season so far, with slow snow start, a New Year’s blackout, and an unexpected early closure. As a fellow small business owner, I ask you to support the village in any way possible. Not only are we facing the loss of winter business, but the tour busses we rely on to get through the shoulder season probably aren’t coming this year.

Even summer tourism is a gamble at this point. While many sectors will be hit hard during this crisis, smaller tourism-based operations may not make it through.

But over the next few weeks I invite everyone not to dwell too much on a future that’s out of our hands and to lean into what we can control, which is our ability to to help our friends, family, and neighbours.

If you are in Sun Peaks and need assistance, please feel free to email editor@sunpeaksnews.

com and we will assist you as much as we can. If you have an ability to help, such as resources to share or accommodation to offer, please let us know and we will assist in making these connections as much as we can.

These circumstances will hit our most vulnerable citizens, such as seasonal and service workers and the elderly, the hardest and we need to look after each other.

Thank you to everyone who is stepping up and supporting the community: our health care professionals and emergency response teams, our government officials and resort leaders, our tourism association, all those providing transportation, communication and essential goods and services.

Thank you to my small team for staying calm and collected during a tough time to produce the news.

We will all come out of this with a renewed appreciation for each other and our community.

Health Centre will not accept patients with COVID-19 symptoms JEAN STRONG

THE SUN PEAKS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE IS ASKING PATIENTS DISPLAYING SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19, A FEVER, COUGH OR DIFFICULTY BREATHING, NOT TO COME TO THE CLINIC

2

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

“If you have concerns regarding these symptoms and if they are mild, please self isolate by staying at home or in your accommodation, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and monitor your symptoms,” read a statement released by the centre.

If symptoms progress to

moderate or severe patients can call the Urgent Primary Care Centre in Kamloops after 11 a.m. to book an appointment between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. The phone number for the clinic is 250 314 2256.

“Our medical team is continuing to work and be available for our patients. If

you have a chronic disease or are at higher risk of getting sick, our team may be able to do a phone call appointment with you. Please inquire if this would be the best option for you.”

The clinic told SPIN it was not currently equipped to handle patients with COVID-19 symptoms.

For those with memories to make OPEN DAILY 9 TO 5 IN THE VILLAGE STROLL AT SUN PEAKS 250.578.7773 SUNPEAKSCOLLECTION.COM

$2,950,000

$2,250,000

$829,000

4213 Bella Vista Drive, Sun Peaks

5429 Lookout Ridge Place, Sun Peaks, BC

32 Echo Landing, Sun Peaks, BC

BEDS: 4 + FAMILY BATHS: 4.5 4,219 SQ. FT.

BEDS: 5 + FAMILY BATHS: 4+2 3,500 SQ. FT.

BEDS: 3 BATHS: 2.5 1,593 SQ. FT.

Spectacular views! Architecturally designed, level entry, four fireplaces, gourmet kitchen, sumptuous master, theatre room, gym. Radiant heat, Smart Home. Fully furnished. Zoned ‘Residential’.

Visit sunpeakscollection.com

Brand new, true ski-in/out mountain modern home with rare triple garage, professionally designed in fresh, luxurious style. Level entry and master on the main. Revenue suite. sunpeakscollection.com

Brand new never lived in with bright sunny views to Mt Morrisey ski runs.

True ski-in/out home with tandem, two car garage. Luxury upgrades.

Short-term rentals allowed. sunpeakscollection.com

IN TRODUCIN G

INT RODUCING

N EW CO N ST RUCT I O N

$679,900

$725,000

$549,900 gst applicable

7392 Cahilty Crescent, Whitecroft, BC

32 Snow Creek Village, Sun Peaks

102 Burfield West, Sun Peaks, BC

BEDS: 5 BATHS: 3 2,770 SQ. FT.

BEDS: 2 + DEN BATHS: 2 1,323 SQ. FT.

BEDS: 2 + DEN BATHS: 2 1,240 SQ. FT.

Backing onto farm and forested crownland, this bright, log home on one acre, has new kitchen, hardwood floors, luxurious private master, spacious decks, and 2 BR revenue suite. Five minutes to Heffley Lake or Sun Peaks.

True ski-in/out end unit townhouse, fully furnished with hot tub. Three levels, rec room, private garage. Zoned ‘Tourist Accommodation’ you can rent to others when not using it yourself. sunpeakscollection.com

NEW CONSTRUCTION. Creekside with patio, quartz countertops, stainless appliances, lockable owner storage in unit and underground garage, plus two heated parking spaces. Artistic representation. Visit burfieldwest.com I N T RO DUCI N G

$420,000

$499,900 gst applicable

$395,000

12 Stone’s Throw, Sun Peak, BCs

15 Burfield Heights, Sun Peaks, BC

33 Forest Trails, Sun Peaks, BC

BEDS: 2 BATHS: 2 904 SQ. FT.

BEDS: 2 + FAMILY BATHS: 1 1,330 SQ. FT.

BEDS:1 BATHS: 1 602 SQ. FT.

True ski-in/out, to both the Morrisey & the Orient chairlift. Ground level end unit is fully furnished including hot tub. Private patio featuring mountain & valley views. Heated underground parking.

True ski-in/out access to the Burfield chairlift and some of the best skiing in the country. End unit with sauna and new hot tub, fully furnished, new carpeting. Walk to nearby Peaks West shopping.

True ski-in/out one bedroom with private garage. Brand new hardwood flooring throughout, new window blinds, and freshly painted. Move in now.

6 appliances. Zoned Residential. sunpeakscollection.com

QUART ER OWNERS HIP

$299,000

$99,900 gst applicable

CO MME RCI AL LE AS E

$26 / sq.ft.

5300 Lookout Ridge Drive, Sun Peaks, BC

1305 D The Residences, Sun Peak, BCs

0.26 ACRES

BEDS: 2 BATHS: 2 1,011 SQ. FT.

Outstanding views! Ski-in/out, abundant sunshine, nearby crown land trails. Building design guidelines allow for a single family residence with a two bedroom revenue suite. sunpeakscollection.com

1/4 Ownership-Luxury living. Ski-in/out. Access to hotel amenities including outdoor pool, hot tubs, gym, restaurants and lounges, room service, ski Concierge and underground parking. Fully furnished.

Peaks West Commercial Lease, Sun Peaks, BC Business opportunity! 1346 sqft, attractive commercial/residential complex ‘Peaks West’. Join Sun Peaks Yoga & Dance, O’Hana Deli and Meals to Go, Pharmacy, Magic Cattleguard Pub/Diner, Meranti. sunpeakscollection.com

YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS

HELEN JONES OFFICE MANAGER

SOTHEBYSREALTY.CA

DAMON NEWPORT SALES REPRESENTATIVE

GIANPIERO FURFARO ASSOCIATE BROKER

LIZ FORSTER MANAGING BROKER

MIKE FORSTER SALES REPRESENTATIVE

QUINN RISCHMUELLER SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal.

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

3

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Local business and industry hit by COVID-19 JEAN STRONG

BUSINESSES IN THE COMMUNITY ARE MAKING TOUGH DECISIONS AS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC REACHES B.C. AND THE CLOSURE OF SKI OPER ATIONS BY SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP (SPR) ON MARCH 18.

As provincial and federal governments put more restrictions on travel and gatherings, large events and festivals set to be hosted in Sun Peaks this season were cancelled.

And around the village business are feeling the impact.

Cahilty Creek Kitchen & Taproom lost thousands of dollars due to the cancellation of the HUB International Nancy Greene Festival which was to host 700 children and their families this month.

“It’s really shitty honestly,” said Yolanda Dye, an owner of the restaurant. “I know we’ve lost three big team groups who had booked out the restaurant.”

In addition to the loss of restaurant traffic, Cahilty Creek sponsors the event, which is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the team. On top of the 1,500 hotdogs ordered that won’t be eaten, the club will lose out on the chance to raise money to support their athletes.

In the West Village Sun Peaks Yoga has cancelled all classes. Down the Road Wellness and Sun Peaks Physiotherapy have done the same. Bottoms Bar and Grill, Tod Mountain Café and others have closed or will close soon after SPR. Kurtis Wyllie, operator of the day-time in resort

MOUNTAIN VIEW DRIVE LOT BUILD TO SUIT SKI-IN ACCESS BUILDING PLANS & SITE EXCAVATED CALL FOR DETAILS 4

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

shuttle and private shuttles, said he will lose at least $20,000 due to the early closure, but applauded SPR’s handling of the situation given the circumstances.

The virus isn’t just changing things in Sun Peaks. It’s impacting resort communities around the world.

Christopher Nicholson, president of the Canada West Ski Area Association (CWSAA), said since the beginning of the outbreak their focus has been on education in the industry.

They’ve brought member’s attention to the nature of the situation, he said, as well as advised them of different tools, protocols and procedures ski areas can use for the safety of guests. They have also focused on identifying official, credible sources of information for the CWSAA and their partners to rely on.

“Establishing credible sources has been essential,” Nicholson said. “The job that Dr. Bonnie Henry and the Ministry have done for B.C. is admirable.”

Looking ahead, Nicholson said, trends are apparent in bookings.

He predicted fewer international visitors as travel bans or quarantines are enforced, but expected more domestic guests to visit resorts that remain open.

Also, he explained, while the last part of the winter season will see a drop in visitation, there will likely be an increase in summer visitation for those destinations which offer it.

“In the past the tourism industry and travel are

quite robust and I believe there is an innate human nature to travel. There will be a pent up demand to travel...the ski industry is somewhat lucky this has happened at this point in the season.”

Compared to previous outbreaks, COVID-19 has grown quickly and impacted people more intimately, with things like the NBA, NHL and CHL being cancelled, Nicholson said.

“This has come into people’s living rooms quickly.”

Looking forward, it’s hard to predict what might happen in the coming weeks.

“If we have a downturn, even though it’s been a good season until now, financial decisions and capital investments are made at the end of the season.”

Nicholson said he would expect to see a trickle down effect to those who work in jobs like manufacturing chairlifts or grooming equipment.

But until we see the full breadth of the impact,

he said, it’s important to breathe.

“People also do need to breathe...we will get through this. There is an end that will come.

The Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) released a statement on March 16 calling on the government to prevent the collapse of the industry.

They stated the industry has already lost hundreds of millions due to the virus.

“Hotels throughout B.C. are experiencing cancellations of up to 80 per cent of business on the books. Massive layoffs will continue this week including part-time, fulltime and management level positions,” said Ingrid Jarrett, CEO, BC Hotel Association. “It’s critically important that we have government support for a recovery plan to ensure that our small and medium size businesses, who are all experiencing extreme hardship, are able to survive.”

They suggested an emergency contingency fund, loan payment relief

and the suspension of land tenure fees and employer health taxes.

KEEP UPDATED ON COVID-19 THE MOST RECENT UPDATES CAN BE FOUND AT

sunpeaksnews.com

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK @sunpeaksnews

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @sunpeaksnews

PLEASE HELP! Donate your used Skis, Boards, and Boots to help fund our program.

Contact us and we will arrange pick up.

Phone: 250.572.0616 Email: adaptivesportsatsunpeaks@ gmail.com

LOCAL BUILDER 40+ YEARS EXPERIENCE BUILDING YOUR MOUNTAIN DREAM IS OUR BUSINESS!

Call or text 250-318-8428 to view our projects

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Fact checking COVID-19 JEAN STRONG

AS NEWS OF THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 FLOODS IN THROUGH YOUR TV, PHONE AND FRIENDS IT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO SORT THROUGH WHAT INFORMATION IS TRUE AND WHAT ISN’T. WE’VE FACT CHECKED SOME OF THE MOST COMMON CLAIMS WE’VE SEEN ONLINE THIS MONTH. HAVE YOU SEEN OTHERS YOU ARE WONDERING ABOUT? EMAIL EDITOR@ SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM AND WE WILL CHECK THEM AND ADD THEM TO THIS STORY ON OUR WEBSITE.

IT’S TOO COLD IN SUN PEAKS FOR THE VIRUS TO SURVIVE False. It isn’t immediately clear how temperatures will affect the spread of COVID-19 but if it’s anything like the flu it will spread easier in a cold, dry climate.

According to the World Health Organization it can be transmitted in all areas and temperatures.

DRINKING WATER PUSHES THE VIRUS INTO YOUR STOMACH, WHERE STOMACH ACID CAN KILL IT False. There is no scientific evidence which supports this claim. Being hydrated is good for your immune system and general health but keeping your mouth and throat moist will not protect you from the virus, despite what viral Facebook posts suggest.

Dr. Susan Wootton, an infectious disease expert, told U.S. journalists no data exists to support this claim.

WEARING MEDICAL OR SKI MASKS WILL PREVENT THE SPREAD False. N95 masks, which you may remember people using during wildfire season, are used to protect health care workers.

To be effective they must be seal tested and be removed in a specific sequence. Experts are also asking people not to buy masks and create a shortage for health care workers who need them.

There is also no evidence wearing a ski mask or buff will protect wearer’s from contracting or spreading the virus.

CHILDREN CAN’T GET THE VIRUS False. According to the Centers for Disease Control children are not at a higher risk than adults but they can still contract the virus. The symptoms are the same in children and adults, however so far children have usually presented more mild cases.

COVID-19 Terminology JEAN STRONG A LOT OF NEW-TO-US TERMS ARE BEING USED IN THE CONVERSATION AROUND COVID-19. SPIN HAS FOUND CLEAR DEFINITIONS OF THE MOST COMMON TERMS TO CLARIFY WHAT EXACTLY IS EXPECTED WHILE GOVERNMENTS TRY TO CONTROL THE SPREAD. SOCIAL DISTANCING In short, social distancing means limiting the number of people one has contact with to limit the spread of the virus.

For some it may mean working from home, keeping children home from daycare if possible and avoiding long-term care

KEEP UPDATED ON COVID-19 THE MOST RECENT UPDATES CAN BE FOUND AT

sunpeaksnews.com

homes, hospices and similar institutions.

Any non-essential trips into the community should be avoided and group gatherings should be cancelled.

When spending time with others keep a distance of at least one or two metres apart.

SELF-MONITORING Self-monitoring means watching for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days. Those who are self-monitoring are allowed to attend work and school and participate in regular activities.

Healthlink B.C. suggests taking a temperature in the morning and at night.

Should symptoms start, selfisolation will begin.

SELF-ISOLATION Self-isolation is when a person is instructed to spend time away from other people for 14 days to prevent the spread of the virus.

This can be someone who has travelled anywhere outside of Canada in the last 14 days or who has spent extensive time with someone who has tested positive for or is suspected to have COVID-19 or who has respiratory symptoms that started within 14 days of international travel.

If you are self-isolating and live with others, it’s important to separate yourselves as much as possible.

You should not go out of the home setting or take public transportation.

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Thursday, April 9, 2020 3:00 P.M. Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipal Council gives notice that it will hold a Public meeting in the Hearthstone Lodge at 3160 Creekside Way, Sun Peaks, BC, to review the 2020 5 Year Financial Plan.

Questions, comments and feedback can be forwarded to Cheryl Taylor-Gale at dof@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca. www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS MAY MEAN WORKING FROM HOME FOR MANY RESIDENTS. Photo Daria Shevstova

WESTSYDE YDE VICE SERVICE Auto Repairs Diesel Repairs Air Conditioning Repairs Gov. Certified Inspection Facility

BILL & MIKE LINDSAY Ph: 250-579-5532 Fax: 250-579-5852 3475 Westsyde Rd., Kamloops, BC V2B 8C5

• groceries • produce • Meat & Produce • Baked Goods • Oso Negro Coffee • Pharmacy/Personal Items

WE’RE OPEN DAILY For all your grocery needs, see you at the Bluebird Market

8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Everyday Located on the ground floor of the Residences at Sun Peaks Grand

250.578.2414 VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

5

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Grades 8 and 9 taken on

by SD73 Five day week until alternative found JEAN STRONG

STUDENTS WHO ARE IN GRADE EIGHT AND NINE THIS FALL WILL BE GREETED IN A NEW PORTABLE AND ATTEND CLASSES THROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 73 (SD73) RATHER THAN THE SUN PEAKS EDUCATION SOCIETY (SPES), IT WAS DECIDED IN AN SD73 MEETING ON MARCH 9.

The board of education met to vote on changes proposed earlier this year after the SPES asked SD73 to incorporate grades eight and nine into their programing.

The changes suggested were to take on the grades, add a portable near the high school’s location, change the name from Sun Peaks Elementary School to Sun Peaks School and move all grades to a five day school week, as Sun Peaks Elementary students currently attend school Monday to Thursday.

The suggestion of a five day week made for a passionate consultation with parents and the community earlier this year as countless people spoke or wrote in support of all changes other than the five day week.

However, after the March meeting the board accepted taking on the additional grades, adding a portable and changing the name.

They also decided to keep kindergarten through grade seven on the same four day a week schedule and continue to see what could be done to accommodate the eights and nines on the same schedule.

In the meantime, said trustee Kathleen Karpuk, Sun Peaks parents should expect students to attend five days a week for the 2020-21 school year.

“We will be doing some more consultation with parents around that,” she said.

She explained an immediate change to a four day week for the grades wasn’t possible for a number of reasons. One

6

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

reason is contracts with the Kamloops Thompson Teachers’ Association which limit hours worked and provincial contracts that are still being negotiated.

Karpuk said they are also trying to balance the schedule to allow students to take all of the classes they may need or want for further education.

“What we’re trying to do with the school board is meet the needs of the community, but most of all the needs of the students.”

She said keeping schools in the district on the same timetable allows rural students the option to video call into courses not offered in person at their school.

Jenny Hawes, president of SPES, thanked the board for holding consultations with the community.

“The Sun Peaks community was happy that the board of trustees listened to our considerations and focused on the students’ education.

We are pleased that SD73 will fund the education for the grades eight and nine for the 2019-2020 school season and are encouraged by the board’s willingness to think outside the box and work with the community to arrive at the best result for the grades eight and nine calendar.”

No timeline has been set for future consultations but work and research are ongoing into the schedule and, long term, a brick and mortar school in Sun Peaks.

The community remains on the capital list for the school district and a committee has been considering what a permanent building would look like and exactly where it may be built.

“We have a vision of a mountain academy taking into consideration the really strong ski culture of Sun Peaks,” Karpuk said. “With racing, downhill skiing and the mountain culture all incorporated.

We’re prepared to get creative up there but it has to be what the community wants.”

SUN PEAKS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WILL INCORPORATE GRADES EIGHT AND NINE IN THE FALL. Photo SPIN

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Regional spring logging underway to mitigate spread of fir beetle JUSTIN MOORE RESIDENTS OF HEFFLEY LAKE ARE CONTINUING TO DEAL WITH FIR BEETLE INFESTATIONS IN THEIR FORESTS THIS SPRING. AFTER A SIGNIFICANT BLOWDOWN EVENT OCCURRED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF HEFFLEY LAKE IN 2017, THE DOWNED TREES BECAME A NATURAL MATING GROUND FOR THE FIR BEETLE, SOMETHING THAT BECAME OF IMMEDIATE CONCERN TO LOCAL RESIDENTS. Through a subsequent salvage operation, the Tk’emlups Band removed much of the blowdown and created bait trees that attracted the beetle in an attempt to protect surrounding trees. And while the project was received positively by many, the threat of further infestation remained as new beetles had taken flight.

In 2019, local residents shared

dialogues with the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (MFLNRORD), which resulted in a review of the blowdown area on the south side of the lake. A strategy was put in place to install anti- aggregative pheromone methyl cyclohexanone (MCH) units that would keep fir beetles from infesting trees on resident’s properties.

For this year, director of the Heffley Lake Community Association, Phil Youwe, coordinated an order that resulted in 2500 MCH units being delivered to Heffley Lake. In April, residents across the lake will be placing the anti-aggregative in their trees, signalling to the fir beetle through pheromones that those trees are already infested.

The Ministry of Forests said the application of MCH pheromones has reduced fir beetle attacks by over 90 per cent.

Meanwhile, the Tk’emlups Band is

continuing to establish grounded bait trees through March, which attract the beetles in the spring, protecting standing trees from infestation. The bait trees will then be removed before the beetles fly again next year.

“We’ll continue to work with the Ministry of Forests and with the Kamloops Indian Band on strategies in addition to the anti-aggregative pheromones,” said Youwe. “We’re hoping to continue seeing a bait tree program in our area.”

A separate forested area on Heffley Lake will be the subject of a survey by the MFLNRORD and locals alike this spring, after another blowdown event in 2019.

In Williams Lake they are facing a similar issue with different solutions.

Another season of helicopter logging is underway to help mitigate the spread of Douglas-fir bark beetles.

Under the direction of MFLNRORD, this fourth year of helicopter logging has expanded to

new areas in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Natural Resource District.

Operating in the daylight hours, crews will be extracting selected trees infested by the fir beetle, protecting nearby trees in typically small groups. A number of healthy

trees will be cut down and left on the ground as trap or bait trees, later sent to the mill to destroy infesting larvae.

Previous monitoring of beetle infestations has shown that logging efforts and related containment treatments have slowed the spread of beetles in the Williams Lake area over the past three years.

The fir beetle-related logging operations are expected to finish by mid-March 2020.

Sun Peaks Community

Health Centre A message from Sun Peaks Community Health Centre: If you are displaying symptoms of CVOID-19, such as a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, not to come to the clinic.

If you have concerns regarding these symptoms and if they are mild, please self isolate by staying at home or in your accommodation, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and monitor your symptoms.

If symptoms progress to moderate or severe, patients can call the Urgent Primary Care Centre in Kamloops after 11 a.m. to book an appointment between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. The phone number for the clinic is 250-3142256.

Our medical team is continuing to work and be available for our patients.

If you have a chronic disease or are at higher risk of getting sick, our team may be able to do a phone call appointment with you. Please inquire if this would be the best option for you. www.sunpeakshealth.com | 778-644-0635

Development costs charges set to increase an average of 72 per cent JEAN STRONG

DEVELOPERS AND THOSE BUILDING HOMES IN SUN PEAKS WILL LIKELY BE PAYING MORE IN DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGES (DCCS) AS SUN PEAKS MOUNTAIN RESORT MUNICIPALITY (SPMRM) MOVES TO INCREASE THE FEES IN RESPONSE TO NECESSARY UPGRADES TO WATER AND WASTEWATER SYSTEMS IN

ORDER TO SUPPORT GROWTH IN THE COMMUNITY. DCCs are fees charged to builders per bed unit in order to ensure upgrades or additions required by development are paid for by the new builds rather than being shouldered by existing taxpayers.

The first DCC bylaw was adopted February 2018 with rates set at $2,562.27 per bed unit for single family homes,

$2,554.03 per bed unit for small multi-family residential, and $2,551.99 per bed unit for large multi-family residential. This was in response to the purchase of water and wastewater utilities from Sun Peaks Resort LLP by SPMRM. Commercial buildings were charged $46.41 per square metre of gross floor area, industrial use buildings $26.50 and institutional use $49.04.

The new rates, which were

adopted in February 2020 and have yet to be approved by the Inspector of Municipalities, will more than double the previous rates.

Now they will be set at $4,285.21 per bed unit for single family homes, $4,255.43 per bed unit for small multi-family residential, and $4,248.06 per bed unit for large multi-family residential.

Commercial buildings will be charged $82.47 per square

metre of gross floor area, industrial use buildings $46.02 and institutional use $87.70.

It makes for an average increase in the fees of 72 per cent across the board.

SPMRM council has given three readings to the bylaw. Chief administrative officer Rob Bremner said the municipality should hear from the Inspector of Municipalities soon as to whether or not it will be approved.

e best B.C. boutique wine selection!

$15.50

+ tax and deposit while supplies last

Located in the residences at Sun Peaks Grand | 250.578.0420 | 30 min parking available in designated stalls VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

7

GET OUT THERE

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Volunteer patrollers prove Sun Peaks is in good hands Team wins patrol competition JEAN STRONG

THREE SKI PATROLLERS WHO VOLUNTEER AT SUN PEAKS WILL COMPETE ON A NATIONAL LEVEL IN JUNE AFTER SWEEPING A B.C. COMPETITION IN MARCH. Joss Advocaat, Ali Marriott and Heather Savage formed a team of patrollers to represent the Inter-Mountain Zone of Canadian Ski Patrol (CSP), which includes Sun Peaks, Harper Mountain and Sovereign Lake, at the Pacific South Division Patroller Competition on March 7.

Savage has been patrolling since 2017 while Advocaat and Marriott are in their first season of volunteering with CSP. Teams at the weekend competition, held at Harper Mountain, came from around southern B.C. to vie

for a spot in CSP’s national competition, which will be held this summer.

Each team was judged on their first aid abilities and toboggan handling. The trios were given up to 25 minutes to complete a patrol scenario which included treatment of angina in one patient and treatment of a femoral artery laceration and hypovolemic shock on another.

After treating their patients and loading them into a toboggan they were judged on their ability to transport a patient safely and efficiently down a slope with moguls to the bottom of the mountain.

“It was a great experience,” Marriott said. “To get to practise in such a realistic scenario, outside on the mountain in a time-critical setting and getting feedback from such experienced judges has made me a much more confident patroller.”

ALI MARRIOTT, JOSS ADVOCAAT AND HEATHER SAVAGE WITH THEIR TROPHIES. Photo SPIN

The team of Sun Peaks patrollers earned first place in both first aid and onsnow (toboggan handling)

categories and won overall champions.

Now they will begin training for the national

stage which will test their first aid skills against other top CSP patrollers from around the country.

Photo: Kelly Funk

Thank you for a great season.

In times of uncertainty, remember to stay connected with your community and support one another. When the time comes, we’ll be enjoying our mountain playground once again. See you soon.

8

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

ARTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Meet the man behind the design of Sun Peaks LOUISE HUDSON WHEN VISITORS ARRIVE IN SUN PEAKS, IT’S OFTEN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT. THEY MARVEL AT THE ATTRACTIVE ALPINE ARCHITECTURE, THE SKIABLE STREETS, TREED TOWN TRAILS, AND THE HORSESHOE OF PICTURESQUE PISTES. The brainchild of the world’s top ski resort designer, none of this downhill design was by accident.

When Paul Mathews started planning Sun Peaks Resort back in 1992, he’d already honed his skills at Mount Washington, Whistler and several international ski areas.

With an academic background in forest ecology and landscape architecture, he named his company Ecosign—a contraction of “ecological design.” As well as preserving soil, water and forests, Ecosign researched how much walking—especially uphill— the average skier will willingly tolerate. As a result, Mathews favours ramps over stairs in his resorts.

Slope capacity is also taken into account as well as the difficulty level of runs and the carrying capacity of lifts. Ecosign is now able to use a software program detecting the best snow on the mountain and the warmest spots to construct restaurant patios.

Based in Whistler, Mathew’s magic touch helped put that resort at the forefront of ski tourism,

contributing to the design of an extensive system of lifts and slopes for Whistler Mountain back in 1975 and Blackcomb since 1986.

From there, Ecosign has handled over 500 resort development projects in 42 countries.

“The company’s reputation and breadth of projects just grew organically, averaging about ten new projects per year, plus of course taking care of a lot of existing customers,” said Mathews.

Now notching up six Olympic venue sites, Ecosign was responsible for identifying locations for the 1988 Calgary Winter Games. The success of Nakiska as a venue, training site and resort led to Ecosign’s first job in Japan at Mount Zao in 1984.

“We have since made plans for 34 areas in Japan including 13 new greenfield projects,” said Mathews.

He was also responsible for location scouting and designing the resort of Rosa Khutor and mapping out competitive courses for Sochi 2014. Ecosign then planned Bokwang Phoenix Park Resort for PyeongChang 2018 and the creative company designed the snow cluster competition venues for the Beijing bid for the 2022 Games. As lead designer, Ecosign was responsible for the athletes’ villages, alpine skiing, freestyle ski and snowboard pistes, and Nordic venues for Beijing 2022.

Ecosign’s first foray into China was led by new president, Ryley Thiessen, at Changbaishan Four Season Resort where they created a comprehensive ski area, resort village, real estate and overall land use master plan in the northeastern portion of the Province of Jilin. The company has since moved on to 21 other ski resort projects in China.

In the course of his widespread wintersports work, Mathews has met many world leaders including the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and President of Montenegro. King of Spain, Juan Carlos, offered to trade jobs with him for a winter season.

“I declined saying that being a king was really too hard work— shaking hands and smiling at people you didn’t know,” recounted Mathews. “To which he laughed and said my job was definitely better than his.”

In Europe, Mathews was the mountain mastermind behind the merging of Zermatt’s five competing lift operators in 2002, preparing plans to develop the newly unified resort. He solved visitor circulation and overall quality issues for Ruka Ski Center, Finland, and created master plans for Swiss, Spanish, Austrian and French resorts. A career coup was securing the contract in 2010 to re-design lift systems at Courchevel. The same year he redesigned Canyons Resort in Park City, Utah.

Back in Sun Peaks, a resort close to Mathews’ heart, he said development is progressing very well.

“The future for Sun Peaks is slow, steady growth including the East Village and new lifts in West Bowl and the Gil’s area,” said Mathews.

Owning a condo in Fireside Lodge, he’s a frequent visitor, tallying 20 days last season. As director on the Sun Peaks Resort

Corporation Board, he attends regular meetings but Sun Peaks is also a personal project.

“Sun Peaks is special as I’m an owner here, I have close personal friends, and we created a very unique resort in pretty remote B.C.” And the future for Ecosign when Mathews retires? There’s a transition plan in place for senior VPs to take over the company to ensure a lasting legacy.

Open since 1998, this shop has become a favourite of Sun Peaks’ guests.

Sound baths provide unique experience

New feature artists such as David Langevin, jewellery, many gift ideas & memorable souvenirs.

Located in the Coast Sundance Lodge

250 578 2673

PERRI DIGBY THE NEW SUN PEAKS YOGA STUDIO NOT ONLY OFFERS A REGULAR YOGA SCHEDULE, BUT ALSO HOSTS A COLLECTION OF WORKSHOPS. ONE SUCH WORKSHOP THAT HAS BEEN WELL RECEIVED IS A SOUND BATH, RUN BY MIKE REED OF SOUND QUEST. A sound bath is a type of mediation where the participant is gradually surrounded by different sound waves. During a sound bath the full spectrum of the human hearing range is utilized at the same time.

“It’s almost like an involuntary

mediation where the thinking mind gets confused by all the sounds and vibrations and overtones that it can’t quite figure out what it’s thinking,” explained Reed.

Sound baths use a range of different instruments, including gongs, chimes, drums and crystal singing bowls. The experience is a self-healing process with a number of perceived benefits including healing of the immune system, nervous system and emotional body through realigning and resetting.

Although Reed has been a musician his whole life,

Sound Quest started after he experienced a sound bath in California. He said he was completely blown away by the session and the fact music could be used to heal.

“I just knew immediately that I wanted to do it and I knew that I could do it. It is musical and I have been doing music my whole life.”

From there it was a fairly natural process—he started by buying one instrument at a time and started small, working with a friend. He held his first solo event in 2018. What started with one or two sessions a month has now

grown into 15 monthly events across the Lower Mainland. Reed has the opportunity to travel from town to town with Sound Quest, fitting all of his many instruments (including two gongs and their stands) into the back of a Honda Prius.

As someone who has been coming to Sun Peaks for many years, Reed figured the next step was to hold a workshop and with perfect timing Sun Peaks Yoga had just opened in December.

With both parties excited about the idea, the workshop came together quickly and Reed held his first Sun Peaks sound bath

in February. After its success a second was held in March.

Reed has already determined he will be returning next winter season, for a full four sessions— one each month from December until March.

Until then Reed is working on growing Sound Quest. He is considering expanding and collaborating with more people in order to bring Sound Quest and sound baths to as many people as possible.

His aim, he said, is to expand and grow organically.

Reed can be found on Facebook as Sound Quest.

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

9

LOCAL NEWS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

New legal services available in village EMILY PERRINS SUN PEAKS NOW HAS ITS OWN DEDICATED LEGAL PRACTICE. Araya Law opened its doors in early March and offers a variety of legal services, as part of a wider trend of new businesses catering to the growing permanent resident market in Sun Peaks.

The firm specializes in wills and estates, real estate, immigration, business, workplace law and notarization services, stated Araya Law founder and principal lawyer, Rina Jeyakumar.

Jeyakumar, originally from the Lower Mainland, completed her legal training before travelling abroad and working in human rights, ahead of starting her own ecotransportation business in South Africa.

She eventually returned to Canada with her partner, Ryan, to work as an associate, and then senior associate of two different law firms in the Lower Mainland.

Having periodically visited Sun Peaks since 1997, she introduced Ryan to the mountain resort last winter and said they both fell in love with the place.

Jeyakumar quickly learned no legal services existed in the village, save a notary public based in Kamloops that retains a branch office in Sun Peaks.

Needing a change from her then-job and considering the promise of a growing community, Jeyakumar enquired about office space and

soon after was told a storefront was available in Fireside Lodge.

“It was all very serendipitous,” she said.

Insights from the community and Jeyakumar’s personal experience shaped which legal services Araya Law now offers.

“I had young families coming up saying we need help with our wills and our power of attorney because we want to make sure that everything’s going to be in order for our kids if something happens,” she said.

Similarly, Jeyakumar anticipated new businesses in a growing community like Sun Peaks could need guidance with corporate structures, incorporation, employment contracts and the like.

On a more personal level, she is the daughter of immigrants and sponsored her partner to come to Canada. So it’s not surprising that she is passionate about immigration rights— something that affects many in Sun Peaks’ employment pool and visiting population.

“I think the unfortunate reality of the immigration system in Canada is that it’s not really user-friendly,” Jeyakumar lamented.

Australian Casey Lambert has lived in Canada for eight years and is now a permanent resident.

“I’ve had friends before who are just so frustrated by [the immigration process] that they’re ready to give up,” she said.

Lambert said she believes a local lawyer could offer more immediacy for residents seeking help with immigration applications, in reducing communication delays, than alternative sources based primarily in the Lower Mainland.

Araya Law is now open five days a week. Jeyakumar welcomes drop ins, as well as appointments booked over the phone or online.

“I’m both very excited and humbled, because I didn’t expect the feedback and support and enthusiasm to be what it has been,” she said.

“I’m hopeful that I can provide a service that previously didn’t exist in a way that makes sense and is meaningful to the community.”

Visit www.arayalaw.com for more information.

10

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

positions open, Hotel Lodging Director, NonHotel Lodging Director, Residential Director and Single Large Hotel Director.

Nominations are open to anyone, not only TSP

Are you renting or wanting to rent your home or suite out as tourist accommodation? Many multifamily properties permit this and only require a business licence. Check with your strata. Tourist accommodation is not a permitted use in single family dwellings or duplexes, however there are options to permit such use. Month to month long term rental is permitted and encouraged in all zones.

Please contact our office for further information.

Dogs We understand that your four-legged friend is part of the family and you want to keep them by your side.

Please keep them on a leash in the village core areas at all times. Outside the village core, they can run free under your supervision. Please don’t leave your friend unsupervised and clean up after them.

House Numbers

THE MOST RECENT UPDATES CAN BE FOUND AT

Is Your House Address Visible? First Responders rely heavily on homes having visible addressing when responding to emergencies. If your address is blocked by snow piles, hidden behind a tree, or doesn’t stand out against the house colour, it can significantly delay responders from locating the correct house in an emergency. Take the time to ensure you can see your house address any time of the day or night, all year long.

sunpeaksnews.com

Questions, comments and feedback can be sent to

KEEP UPDATED ON COVID-19

TSP BOARD NOMINATIONS OPEN N o m i n a t i o n s a r e o p e n fo r p o s i t i o n s o n t h e To u r i s m Sun Peaks (TSP) Board of Directors.

Vo t i n g w i l l t a ke p l a c e a t the AGM at 10 a.m., June 20 in the Hearthstone Lodge.

Fo u r categories have

Short Term Nightly Rentals

members, who are 19 or older. Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on April 10.

More i n fo r m a t i o n c a n b e fo u n d a t w w w. sunpeaksresort.com/tspmembers/members-area.

www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

COMMUNITY

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Captured! Village Views KYLE JAMES

I HAVE TAKEN A LOT OF PHOTOS THIS MONTH, BUT THIS ONE STANDS ABOVE THEM ALL. I RATE THIS PHOTO SO HIGHLY NOT JUST BECAUSE IT CAPTURES A BEAUTIFUL SCENE BUT BECAUSE I HAD MY MOST ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE SHOOTING PHOTOS OF A LANDSCAPE IN SUN PEAKS. THE IDEA WAS VERY MUCH PIECED TOGETHER AT THE LAST MINUTE, WITH

CONVERSATIONS BETWEEN MYSELF AND SUN PEAKS RESORT BACK AND FORTH ON IF WE WERE GOING TO, HOW I WOULD GET UP (AND DOWN) FROM THE SPOT OF CHOICE ON THE MOUNTAIN, ETC. In choosing my location I used an app that shows the path of the moonrise, the milky way, the sunset, you name it—if it’s in the sky, it tracks it! The app showed the moon would rise to the north of the village so I chose my spot from a few

that I have scoped over my years of snowboarding here.

As I got to the prime location I checked the app again and noticed I only had a few minutes to set up before the first glimpse of the moon would appear over the ridge. I hurriedly set up my tripod and camera for some close up shots of the moon appearing. In all honesty, after taking a few photos I relaxed and just watched. For me, this is (and always has been) the hidden pleasure in taking photos of beautiful scenery or lunar

and astro events. Nothing comes close to giving you that reality check or endless list of questions about life.

I took in the atmosphere, realized my gratitude for being in the moment, watching the largest of moons rise over the place I call home.

This photo has since become my desktop background (no easy achievement) as it reminds me of the most recent time that I have been completely content, at peace and delighted with my creative

journey.

I would like to thank Sun Peaks Resort in arranging for me to get up to the spot safely, as well as the patrol and groomer staff on that night that continued to make sure I arrived and departed safely.

Kyle James is a photographer & filmmaker from Sun Peaks.

To see more of his work visit www.kylejames.co Contact: kylejamesimages@gmail.com

SUMMER OPERATING HOURS BEGIN APRIL 1ST

SUN PEAKS TRANSFER STATION MON, WED, THURS, SAT, SUN* 10AM - 6PM

*Closed Tuesday and Friday

tnrd.ca | 250.377.8673 | recycleright@tnrd.ca Change over Ad Sun Peaks summer.indd 1

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 202020-03-10 - APRIL 1:39:52 17 PM 11

MONTH IN PHOTOS

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS

THE SIX SPAC MEMBERS REPRESENTING SUN PEAKS ON TEAM B.C. FOR U16 CANADIAN NATIONALS. Photo Sun Peaks Alpine Club

SUN PEAKS ELEMENTARY STUDENTS DISPLAYED THEIR WORK AT A SCIENCE FAIR ON MARCH 10. Photo Supplied

THE VENTURE SCOUTS, MADI ADAMS, JAMES CANNON AND TOREN HARRIS, TOOK PART IN A BACKCOUNTRY SKIING CAMPING TRIP IN FEBRUARY WITH LEADER GLEN HARRIS. Photo Supplied

MARLIE MARCHEWKA STARTS DOWN THE BANKED SLALOM COURSE. Photo Bee Nikula

MONTANA OEVERMANN AND OLIVIA DYE EARNED THEIR FIRST DEGREE BLACK BELTS ON MARCH 12.

Photo SPIN

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE • RESIDENT & NON-RESIDENT BUYERS & SELLERS

Chris Cavanagh

Scott Ellis

Direct: 250.372.4942 cfc@mjblaw.com

Direct: 250.374.4933 sbe@mjblaw.com

LAWYER

WE CAN HELP.

LAWYER

Mair Jensen Blair LLP 275 Lansdowne St. Kamloops, BC V2C 6H6

For a full listing of our lawyers and services, please visit mjblaw.com 12

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

Taking care of your mental health during social distancing or isolation JEAN STRONG

AS WE BEGIN TO SPEND MORE TIME ALONE OR WORK FROM HOME TO PRACTISE RESPONSIBLE SOCIAL DISTANCING IT CAN TAKE A TOLL ON OUR MENTAL HEALTH. A MEDIA CYCLE FILLED WITH INFORMATION ON THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC CAN ALSO BECOME OVERWHELMING

AND WE DON’T KNOW EXACTLY WHEN IT WILL END. Karen Lara, of locally based Antares Counselling, said fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in both adults and children.

“When we don’t manage stress well, our immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced, making us more susceptible to infections,” she said. “The stress

hormone cortisol can decrease the effectiveness of the immune system, particularly when it is suppressed chronically (long term).

Effective stress management strategies are integral to maintaining personal wellness, as our mind-body connection is so powerful.”

Lara said a stress response may look like fear and worry about your health or the health of others,

EVENTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

changes in sleeping and eating patterns, difficulty concentrating, worsening of chronic health problems or increased use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.

We asked SPIN readers and friends what they are doing to take care of their mental health during this trying time. See below for ideas to get started and keep yourself as mentally strong and healthy as possible.

INDOORS COOKING Didn’t get to the grocery store in time to buy your regular groceries?

Challenge yourself to make a delicious meal from just items in your pantry. When you’re done try tweeting a photo at Gordon Ramsey to be rated.

DEEP CLEAN

Spring cleaning can be easy to delay.

Take advantage of more time at home by deep cleaning around the house. We’re starting on our pantries and closets. If you want even more good feelings, organize items which you can donate to charity when social distancing is no longer needed.

needles and start out with some simple YouTube tutorials.

SPEND TIME IN THE SUNLIGHT

Even if you just move your chair in front of your house’s brightest window! Decreased sun exposure has been linked with a drop in serotonin levels.

WORKOUT FROM HOME

Endless workout classes from HIIT to yoga can be found on YouTube.

Pvolve, fitness classes based in New York City, are also offering three streamed classes a day for free.

MEDITATION

No better time to learn a new subject.

Apps like Duolingo can help you pick up a new language or students can take the time to nail a topic, exam or project.

The act of meditating has been proven to reduce stress, control anxiety and improve sleep. It’s also very easy to start. Guided meditation videos are available online or through apps like Headspace which is offering free resources during this crisis.

Always wanted to learn but never made the time? Pick up those

Catch up with a friend, from a distance! Schedule video chats

STUDY

KNITTING

FACETIME A FRIEND

LIVE MUSIC

with friends or family, especially those who are older or immunocomprimsed and may feel even more isolated or anxious.

House has an online tour.

This activity doesn’t have to be like your middle school diary. Try a stream of consciousness free write to get the heavy thoughts out of your head, list five things you’re grateful for each day or open up Pinterest for some bullet journaling inspiration.

NETFLIX

JOURNALING

READ A BOOK

You know the one that has been on your bedside table collecting dust for months. If you don’t have any books at home try openlibrary.org, buy an e-book on Amazon or look at digital libraries through the Thompson Nicola Regional Libraries.

TAKE A VIRTUAL MUSEUM TOUR

Museums around the globe offer virtual tours. Some standouts are the British Museum, Guggenheim Museum, Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre. Even the Sydney Opera

The best spot in the village for live music!

9-11:30pm every Saturday

PLAY VIDEO GAMES

Disconnect from it all by streaming video games online or playing on consoles you already own.

Old faithful. A new series called Pandemic gives an accurate depiction of what’s happening on a global scale right now. Want to forget about viruses? In February Netflix Canada added Narcos: Mexico season two and Locke & Key. For the romantic they added Crazy, Stupid, Love and P.S. I Love You.

PUZZLES AND GAMES

Dust off your stack of games and puzzles and play with your roommates or family!

RENEW YOUR SPOTIFY

Focus on all the fun to come when this storm has passed by perfecting your playlists. We will be working one for chilling out, one for cleaning and one for blasting on summer adventures.

Watch for special events to be announced throughout the winter.

OPEN FOR LUNCH on weekends from 11:30am

OUTDOORS BIKE RIDES

WALK WITH YOUR DOG OR KIDS

Spring has arrived in Kamloops and is on it’s way in Sun Peaks.

The perfect time to dust off your bike and get some fresh air. Just wait for the go ahead from local riding associations that trails are dry enough.

Challenge yourself to walk the entire Valley Trail loop in one day or head to Kamloops where hiking trails like Battle Bluff are ready for the hiking season.

SNOWSHOE

There are lots of areas in and

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

around Sun Peaks which will have enough snow to snowshoe for a while to come. Explore a new area or return to an old favourite.

TEACH YOUR DOG A NEW TRICK

With more time spent with our four-legged friends there is no

BC’S NON-MEDICAL HOTLINE FOR COVID-19 QUESTIONS 1-888-COVID19

CRISIS SERVICES CANADA

better chance to teach fido that trick you’ve always wanted to master. See how long they can sit and stay for or look at local trainer Sarah Rose’s Canine Mobility Project Facebook page for ideas on keeping your dog active and healthy.

KIDS HELP PHONE 1-800-668-6868

MORRISEYSPUB

EMENTALHEALTH.CA

1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

13

BUSINESS LISTINGS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

SERVICES

Your Fireplace Experts Professional Service & Repairs Fireplace Replacement Specialists 1200 Battle Street, Kamloops 250-372-3424 www.fireplacecentre.com

Find out more online at sunpeaksnews.com/advertise or call 250.578.0276

Residential and Commercial Security

ESSENTIAL SERVICES DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS?

(250) 374-2577

LET US KNOW SO WE CAN INFORM THE COMMUNITY.

IS YOUR BUSINESS STAYING OPEN TO PROVIDE

kamloopsalarm.com

CONTACT EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM

“PROTECTING SUN PEAKS FOR OVER 25 YEARS”

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION Excavating Ltd.

Sun Peaks Excavation

•

Excavating & Snow Clearing

•

Landscape Rock/Granite

•

1”—4”, 4”—12”, 5”—18”, Sand, Pitrun

250-572-1631

•

1” Crush

Greg: 250 371 7800 • gzieb@telus.net www.ziebartexcavating.com

sunpeaksexcavation@gmail.com

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING IN SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS? DEDICATED READERSHIP | TARGETED AUDIENCE | REACH KAMLOOPS AND SUN PEAKS To find out more about advertising with SPIN and to receive our advertising kit, contact:

250.578.0276 | BRANDI@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM

14

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE AT

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/CLASSIFIED

SUDOKU

ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS ADS ARE PLACED DAILY

SOLVE THIS CROSSWORD

EDITED BY MARGIE E. BURKE EDITED BY MARGIE E. BURKE

CROSSWORD ANSWERS V18I2

ANSWERS CAN BE FOUND IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SPIN

HIRING Sun Peaks Lodge is hiring for the summer Start end of April | Night Audit on Front Desk / Laundry Housekeeper (10pm-6am), Housekeeper/ Breakfast Server, Housekeeping Supervisor Mid June - end of September | Steakhouse Dishwasher (afternoon/evening shifts), Steakhouse Dinner Server (afternoon/evening shifts), Steakhouse Line Cook (afternoon/evening shifts). info@sunpeakslodge.com

SPRING Weather Forecast MARCH 20 - 22 Sunny, cold

MARCH 23 - 31

Showers, then sunny, cool

APR 1 - 7

Sunny, cool

SODOKU ANSWERS V18I2

Do you enjoy our puzzles?

Too easy?

Too hard?

LET US KNOW! Send your thoughts to:

editor@sunpeaksnews.com

or phone 250 578 0276

APR 8 - 17

Rainy periods, mild

CONNECT WITH US

@sunpeaksnews

Reach one of Interior BC’s most lucrative markets Call to arrange your promotion package today

250-578-0276 or visit

sunpeaksnews.com/advertise VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

15

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Events cancelled due to COVID-19

KEEP UPDATED ON COVID-19 THE MOST RECENT UPDATES CAN BE FOUND AT

JEAN STRONG

WEEKS AFTER COVID-19 STARTED SPREADING AROUND THE WORLD IT’S IMPACT HAS REACHED SUN PEAKS. Racers in the community for the U16 Canadian Alpine Nationals were told to

head home early after the cancellation of the event on the evening of March 12.

The cancellation comes after Alpine Canada and their provincial partners recommended cancelling all domestic events which resulted in the cancellation

of races across the country.

The HUB International Nancy Greene Festival has also been cancelled due to the virus. Around 700 young racers and their families were expected in Sun Peaks on March 20 and 21.

The Nordic Festival and

the Canadian Adaptive Snowsports festival scheduled for March 15 to 20 in Sun Peaks were also cancelled in response to the spreading virus.

Sun Peaks closed on March 18 in response to the spread of the virus.

sunpeaksnews.com

Top 10 finishes for Brown at Westerns and Jr. Nationals JEAN STRONG

NAYTE BROWN IS BACK ON THE MOUNTAIN WITH A WICKED GOGGLE TAN AND GREAT RESULTS FROM HIS FIRST NATIONAL COMPETITION. After a season of training and competing with the Sun Peaks Snowboard Club, Brown was invited to travel to Westerns and Jr. Nationals for Slopestyle in Calgary, Alta., this March. He attended with the coach and team from SilverStar, who he had ridden and trained with before.

Brown said the Junior

competitive rates: hourly or contract

”LET US DO YOUR DIRTY WORK” SPECIALIZING IN:

SITE PREPARATION, RESIDENTIAL EXCAVATION, GROUND WATER ISSUES, BOULDER STACK RETAINING WALLS

National competition was delayed on day one due to wind and ice but when he did his two runs the next day he did well, placing eighth out of 23 competitors.

At the Westerns competition he placed seventh out of 22 competitors. He took part in Westerns last year but this year was his first national competition.

“It was really fun, we had good weather for training and for Westerns...I was just really happy to be there, it’s fun visiting other mountains,” he said.

He added as they were the last competitions of the year he was able to do all of the tricks he’s learned and practised this season.

At the beginning of the season, he said, he was barely doing a 360 one way. Now he can nail a 720 both ways.

“Training up here has been really good. I’ve been snowboarding almost every single day this season...I’m really happy with the result, it’s better than I expected.”

Earlier this season Brown competed in the B.C. Provincial Slopestyle series stops in Whistler, where he didn’t land his slopestyle runs but took home third in big air,

NAYTE BROWN CATCHES AIR IN CALGARY, ALTA. Photo Supplied

and in SilverStar, where the same happened in slopestyle but he placed 13th overall.

On home turf Brown won

a first place in the Garden Retooled Rail Jam in the village and took part in Party in the Park.

Next year he’d like to have solid switch tricks, more spins, and place higher in the slopestyle competitions.

FOR ESTIMATES: 250-851-1021 | OFFICE@POWDERVENTURES.COM

thinking of a new hot tub? get your new hot tub installed by our experienced professional team!

New American Whirlpool 171 - $8500 5-6 person Hot Tub – Great Patio Hot Tub! Quietest hot tub on the market Zone Therapy Massage Features *Installation Costs quoted by site*

16

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

contact us to set up your consultation

250-578-8669 | info@sunpeaksaquatics.com

Hot tub and chemical Sales | Installation | Removal | water care packages

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Kinloch joins New Zealand rugby team Sun Peaks local met club president guiding canoes JEAN STRONG

WHEN CHARLIE KINLOCH STARTED GUIDING CANOE TOURS ON MCGILLIVRAY LAKE LAST SUMMER HE HAD NO IDEA OF THE PATH IT WOULD LEAD HIM DOWN. While guiding a group he got to know other rugby enthusiasts from New Zealand and is now travelling to their home country for a season of international play.

Kinloch will play near Christchurch, N.Z., for the New Brighton Football Club for around six months while living with the club’s president, who he met in Sun Peaks, and working and travelling throughout the country in any spare time.

While it will be the 18-yearold’s first long solo trip, it isn’t the first time his rugby talents have been recognized.

He started playing at age eight with the Kamloops Rugby Club and quickly fell in love with the sport.

“We’ve always been an athletic family and always been really competitive,” he said.

After a brief break to focus on hockey in middle school, Kinloch returned to the sport for high school rugby at NorKam Senior Secondary School. He was captain in his senior year and earned a spot on the provincial team.

“I was blessed to have that opportunity,” he said.

Now, after graduating in 2019, the international opportunity has presented itself.

“It’s been my dream ever

KINLOCH IS NOW IN NEW ZEALAND FOR THE RUGBY SEASON. Photo Supplied

since I’ve been playing to go to the motherland of rugby...I’m definitely looking forward to experiencing the culture behind it.”

While there he will play scrum half, fullback or wing, and said he’s looking forward to working with professional staff and having the support of a large club.

“I’m excited to gain experience and knowledge of the sport and the culture.”

More than the culture of the country Kinloch said he appreciates the culture of the sport, which he described as respectful, humble and sportsmanlike.

The season started March 19 and will run until the late summer.

“It was always a goal for me, maybe a little unrealistic, but dreams come true I guess.”

KINLOCH HAS PLAYED THE SPORT FROM A YOUNG AGE. Photo Supplied

B.C. racers place well despite U16 Nationals cancellation JEAN STRONG

THE MUCH ANTICIPATED U16 CANADIAN ALPINE NATIONALS HOSTED IN SUN PEAKS IN MARCH WAS CANCELLED ON MARCH

14 AT THE DIRECTION OF ALPINE CANADA DUE TO THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 AROUND THE GLOBE. The Skier Cross and Slalom events were not able to take place but the GS and Super G races from earlier in the week were completed

and Team BC had strong results.

In the girl’s Super G Sun Peaks Alpine Club (SPAC) racer Taylin Lormier was the top girl from B.C. in seventh place. Sara Stiel from Whistler Mountain Ski Club (WMSC) took

fourteenth.

In the boy’s Super G, SPAC’s Eaun Currie won 14th and Sam Fuller from WMSC won 18th.

On Thursday the 144 athletes took part in GS races.

Stiel took home third,

the only podium for a B.C. athlete, and Jamie Robinson from the Vernon Ski Club won 17th.

SPAC racer Micah Schwirtlich won seventh, the third fastest time of the second run, and Sascha Gilbert of WMSC won 19th.

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

17

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

Hawes comes home with top ten finish despite event cancellations JEAN STRONG

ATHLETE BROCK HAWES IS ON HIS WAY HOME TO SUN PEAKS AFTER TWO EVENTS WERE CANCELLED DUE TO THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.

The Canada Cup at Mount St. Louis Moonstone, Que., was cancelled after one

day of competition and Junior Freestyle Nationals in Stoneham, Que. were cancelled before they were set to start on March 20.

Before the events were cancelled Hawes battled poor weather conditions and high

winds to place 10th overall.

He and other competitors spent two days training together and Hawes completed one of his biggest goals of the season, landing a double cork 1080, which he did twice.

BROCK HAWES WITH HIS GOALS ON HIS SKIS. Photo Supplied

Sunshine and smiles for Bluebird Day event COURTNEY JONES THE 9TH ANNUAL BLUEBIRD BANKED SLALOM WAS HELD THE FIRST WEEKEND IN MARCH, RAISING FUNDS FOR THE LOCAL BLUEBIRD DAY FUND. Sunshine and warm conditions throughout the day followed by colder temperatures overnight led to an icy course for competitors, with deeper ruts and altered banks making any mistake a costly one.

Local Sun Peaks snowboarder Marlie Marchewka placed first in the Open Female Board, however it was not without error.

“It’s funny because I actually thought the race was over for me when I fell in the upper section on the fourth bank,” she said. “There are so many thoughts that run through your mind in such a small moment in time. My first thought was my race was over, but my second thought was to just get up and keep going. I pushed myself even harder for the rest of the race, hung on for dear life on a couple of banks and somehow I managed to make up some lost time up and finish the close race.”

Despite winning her event by 1.1 seconds, Marchewka was more focused on the overall time against her male counterparts.

“I was unable to successfully fulfill my friendly race rival goal against course co-ordinator

18

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

Dom Koric, hats off to him,” Marchewka said. “The weather was perfect though and the sun was shining. Snow conditions for the two days didn’t fluctuate much, however the course did change, making it a bit more challenging with each run. The competitor stoke was high all weekend, the kids had a great day on Saturday and the event was capped off with Sunday’s adult race.”

Kieran Nikula, who placed first in the Open Male Ski, has been competing in the event since its beginning.

“I grew up ski racing in the Nancy Greene program at Sun Peaks from a very young age,” he said. “I was never the fastest or the best ski racer and years of poor results suggested that racing wasn’t for me. I was so passionate about skiing from such a young age that I took to other parts of the sport such as freestyle and freeriding and did the best I could with the skills I learned in ski racing. I have raced in the Banked Slalom every year; it is the one event I will always try to be back at Sun Peaks for each year.”

This year’s event also marked the end of Kamloops store Oronge Board Shop’s support after announcing their closure earlier last month.

Both Marchewka and Nikula showed their sentiment toward Oronge owners Kent “Koach” Thiessen and David Kuan.

“They’ve been huge supporters of every Bluebird Day Fund

event and played major roles into what it’s become today,” Marchewka said. “Koach and David, along with their love of the sport, have helped shape the snowboarding community in Sun Peaks for a quarter century.”

Nikula said he believed the event was as much a weekend about the Bluebird Day Fund, racing and a good time, as it was about showing appreciation to the Oronge owners.

“They have played such a crucial role in not only the Banked Slalom event over the years, but also in the support and creation of the ski and snowboard scene at Sun Peaks as it is today. I know that their role at Sun Peaks for decades has been an important one for so many young up and coming boarders and skiers,” Nikula said.

PARTICIPANTS CELEBRATE ON THE PODIUM OF ANOTHER BANKED SLALOM IN SUN PEAKS. Photo Bee Nikula

DAVID KUAN AND KOACH THIESSEN AT THE EVENT. Photo Bee Nikula

SPORTS

SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS

McLaren gets 39th podium at Over The Hill Downhill “Long Time Running” reflects on years of racing, looks to 40th year

BILL KALS, IAN MCLAREN, RUSSELL CLARK AND NEIL OTSIG AT THE RACE. Photo Supplied

JEAN STRONG

FOR 39 YEARS RACERS FROM AROUND THE PROVINCE, AND EVEN FROM THE U.S., HAVE MADE AN ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE TO SILVERSTAR RESORT TO TAKE PART IN THE OVER THE HILL DOWNHILL. Ian McLaren, a Sun Peaks local and former owner of McSporties ski shop, and his team were on the podium in first place at this February’s events.

But McLaren has more than this year’s gold medal hanging on his wall. He has taken part in each of the Vernon, B.C., races since the first year in 1981 and been on the podium with his team every time in

their age category and on the overall podium 12 times.

It’s a strong record for the long-time racer, and the history goes deeper than just bringing home top prizes.

McLaren said over the years it’s been a way to connect with other racers and become a way to connect with his friends and teammates.

For two years now McLaren’s team has consisted of Sun Peaks friends Neil Otsig and Bill Kals and Whistlerite Russel Clark. They call themselves “Long Time Running” a nod to their ages and the time they’ve been racing.

“For about 10 years there were a lot of speed races but in the mid 90’s it dropped off,” Kals said, citing liability concerns for resorts hosting

the events. “Despite all that Vernon has hosted for 29 years consecutively.”

Kals, who has been competing in the race since 2004 on various teams, said it has been well attended over the years with some seeing more than 200 racers attend.

“It was different then, it’s a lot of fun.”

One of McLaren’s favourite memories, he said, was running the course wearing his traditional kilt. After his kilted run he went again to ensure he didn’t slow down the team’s overall time.

Another year he had an epic wipeout, launching off a road part way through the course and losing a ski.

“One of the days I went off the road and it flew off and

went 30 feet up in the air,” he said. “It came back down on my leg and I had to go to the hospital...it came down all bent so for two days I wasn’t out practising.

“Each day I was in the ski shop trying to bend it back.”

After the race he told the skis to a friend, not wanting the bad luck and bent ski to follow him to other races.

As the event has aged so have many of the participants.

“It’s pretty inspiring just seeing some of the people down there,” Kals said. “And seeing Ian on the podium more often than not, even skiing against ex-national team members.”

“I’ve met a lot of friends over the years from around the province,” McLaren said.

But the older ages haven’t affected the speeds.

“It’s a downhill event, speeds reach 110 to 115 kilometres an hour with an average speed of 90 kilometres an hour,” Kals said. “Once you’re on it you ski as hard as you can, it’s fun, friendly and fast.”

After another year on the podium the friends are back skiing at Sun Peaks, and already looking forward to the 40th race next year.

McLaren said the kilt may make a return for the 40th, and he hopes to be back stronger than before.

“We hope the younger generation comes in and carries it on,” Kals said. “It’s a great event and we can’t keep it going forever. 40 years is a long time.”

now open in peaks west next to the firehall

A new, fresh food-to-go market focusing on regional producers Soups | Salads | Deli Meats and Cheeses | Marinated Fresh Meats Dry Goods | Fresh and Frozen House Made Family Meals Open daily 10am to 8pm | www.ohanasunpeaks.ca | 250-578-0852 VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17

19

Serving Sun Peaks and area since 1995

ALPINE RESORT REALTY

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

OPEN DAILY - LOCATED IN THE KOOKABURRA LODGE T: 250 578 8222 TF: 1 800 663 2838 E: info@sunpeaksrealty.com

NEW LISTING

#19 SUN MOUNTAIN VILLAS | $468,900 This upper floor 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom property has a bright south west exposure and features vaulted ceiling, extensive window package and numerous upgrades. Sitting beside McGillivray Creek with a park like setting & great views of mountain and golf course. Enjoy the outdoors on an XL covered deck and the convenience of a secure garage& a car port. Enjoy the indoors with bright sunlight, rich wood floors and feature fireplace. Offered furnished; GST paid.

NEW LISTING

2431 FAIRWAYS DRIVE | $1,399,000 Welcome home to this comfortable custom designed post & beam 4 bedroom home with additional 1 bedroom revenue suite. Expansive window packages take advantage of light and views. From the floor to ceiling rock fireplace in the living room, the custom hardwood cabinetry, granite countertops, deluxe appliances, tasteful mix of hardwood, stone and tile flooring - all is high end. Radiant floor heat throughout, vaulted ceilings, private deck, fireplace, plus large single garage of over 30 feet in length with additional storage mezzanine. Offered furnished with hot tub; GST paid.

#10 CRYSTAL FOREST | $354,900 This ground floor 1 bedroom condo truly shines! Quick access to the slopes - leave the cars behind. Includes 2 underground parking spaces, granite countertops in kitchen and bathroom, sleek corner gas fireplace, vinyl plank floors, heated tile floors, solid pine cabinetry and doors. Relax around the cozy fireplace and watch the skiers zip home directly outside your living room window.

Zoning allows for nightly rentals/revenue potential. Offered largely furnished with GST Paid.

NEW LISTING

2215 SUNBURST DRIVE | $1,279,000 The Auski Chalet is an alpine oasis and the perfect retreat after a long day of skiing on the slopes. Imagine your very own ski run that passes directly along the side of this home offering the best ski-in experience, and only a few steps to ski-out to the main village. The home’s main living area is flooded with great light passing through massive windows that bring the great outdoors inside. An airy open layout allows for seamless transitions from the living space to the kitchen and spacious dining area that will accommodate large family gatherings. Offered furnished with hot tub. GST applies.

#308 FIRESIDE LODGE

| $352,900

Location is everything. Here you are close to all resort shopping and amenities.

Ski-in and Ski-out from this bright one bedroom condo which features an open floor plan, cozy fireplace and covered deck overlooking the village. Property amenities include outdoor hot tub, heated underground parking, elevator, shared on floor laundry, ski and bike storage, and the convenience of in building restaurants and commercial outlets. Unlimited owner use, short term rental allowed. Offered furnished; GST paid.

#24 TRAILS EDGE |

$819,000

Location! location! Steps away to skiing from this 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom town home in popular Trail’s Edge. Ski out to the Morrissey and Orient chairs and ski home from the Sundance and Orient chairs. This mountain retreat offers a great open floor plan with expansive window packages and great ceiling height. Outdoor decks, patio plus a2 car garage for parking and storage. Offered furnished with hot tub, GST paid.

NEW LISTING

#3 SUN MOUNTAIN VILLAS | $469,900 Spacious and bright 2 bedroom townhouse located a short walk along the valley trail from Sun Peaks Village. Enjoy the large covered deck with vaulted roof line, open kitchen, dining and living room with cozy gas fireplace with slate and rich timber mantel. Convenient ski-in access, steps to the golf course & easy walk to lifts. Features private tandem garage & workshop/ storage area. Offered largely furnished and GST is not applicable.

#24 CRYSTAL FOREST |

$349,000

This immaculate top floor one bedroom corner apartment has great ski access and loads of in suite storage and secure underground parking. Upgraded counters, vanities, flooring, and comes fully furnished. Heated tile floors, cozy two sided gas fireplace, in-suite laundry, open living with access to your private covered deck with great views to the top of Tod Mountain. GST paid.

#36 SETTLER’S CROSSING| $469,000 You are mere steps to putting on and off your skis in this comfortable bright deluxe 2 bedroom. This property was fully upgraded with granite, stainless steel appliances, scraped hardwood floors, superior fixtures, custom wood blinds and quality furnishings. There is secure underground parking with additional personal storage. Enjoy the private hot tub on your covered deck and the convenience of your personal ski locker at the front door. Fully furnished, with hot tub, GST paid.

NEW PRICE!

#217/219 CAHILTY HOTEL | $197,000 This is a prime ski-in, ski-out location with spectacular slope side views of the ski hill in the heart of Sun Peaks. This fully furnished, one bedroom lock-off suite offers a flexible floor plan for personal use & rental. Efficiency kitchen with queen size murphy bed, pullout sofa and full bath on one side that connects to the adjacent room with two queen beds and an additional bathroom. This property is in the process of substantial remodelling and renovations, all at the expense of current owner. GST Paid.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

#15 TIMBERLINE VILLAGE |

$579,000

This two bedroom townhouse with private heated garage is in the heart of Sun Peaks with easy ski-in, ski-out access. This bright and airy, three level home is located in Timberline Village where there’s plenty of room for family and friends. Relax in the open living area with cozy gas fireplace, the inviting central kitchen, or one of the spacious outdoor areas. The top level features two large bedrooms and shared bathroom. Offers plenty of storage and comes fully furnished with six appliances included. GST paid.

#107 KOOKABURRA LODGE | $559,000 This 1076 sq.ft. space is available in the Kookaburra Lodge. High traffic corner exposure and great storefront visibility and patio area that offers the opportunity for significant growth, as Sun Peaks continues to improve and expand its development.

Concrete structure for strength, acoustic and fire qualities with sprinkler system in place. Great location adjacent to the village with year round community and school.

Existing lease in place.

SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 20

VOL 18 ISSUE 3 MARCH 20 - APRIL 17