SPIN Vol 15 Issue 1

Resort Occupancy

New chef

BRINGS CLASSIC INTERNATIONAL SEES DOUBLE DIGIT GROWTH IN DECEMBER >> Page 6 FARE TO SUN PEAKS >> Page 10

WINTER Weather Forecast JANUARY 20—29 Snow flurries, cold

JANUARY 30—31 Flurries

FEBRUARY 1—10 Flurries

FEBRUARY 11—15 Sunny, cold

FEBRUARY 16 Flurries

Volume 15 Issue 1 > JANUARY 20 — FEBUARY 16

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YOURS FREE TO TAKE HOME

NHL-SIZE RINK open to skaters GRAND OPENING ON FEB. 3

GRAND OPENING ON FEB. 3

Nancy Greene Raine and Al Raine drop the puck at the first official game on Jan. 6. | PHOTO SPIN

by JEAN STRONG

T

he new outdoor skating rink at Sun Peaks opened on Dec. 23 to rave reviews from beginner skaters to hockey players and everyone in between.

Despite not having the refrig-

eration system installed, low temperatures ensure the ice will be frozen naturally until the system is installed by mid-February.

Having the ice frozen artificially will allow for a longer skating season than the previous outdoor rink allowed.

The Sun Peaks Hockey League (SPHL) has returned

with a new structure, now open to everyone in the community, not just Sun Peaks Resort staff, and to any level of skater.

SPHL organizer Mike Billheimer said the new ice has made the game safer for players with the addition of full boards and benches.

“Everyone seems to really

enjoy the new facility, it’s very convenient for us and everything flows really well,” he said.

Other teams have enjoyed the NHL size surface, including the Kamloops Chiefs old timers who played the facility’s first official game on Jan. 6.

The rink is beside the sports centre and open to the

public every day.

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality will host a Grand Opening on Feb. 3 at 1:00 p.m.

A brunch will be held prior to the event at 11:45 a.m. at Voyaguer Bistro in the Kookaburra Lodge.

Interested parties are asked to RSVP to Nicky Braithwaite at 250-578-2020.

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

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SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS INC. PO Box 1043 Sun Peaks BC V0E 5N0

Phone: 250•578•0276 For comments, questions, concerns email: editor@sunpeaksnews.com Email your classifieds or ads to: editor@sunpeaksnews.com

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OUR TEAM

local NEWS RESIDENTS HEAR INFORMATION ON UTILITIES AND HOUSING AUTHORITY “These are significant financial decisions and would change considerably what the municipality is doing in the community.”

by BRANDI SCHIER

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Brandi Schier

brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

GRAPHIC ARTIST Jen Schier

jen@sunpeaksnews.com

REPORTER Jean Strong jean@sunpeaksnews.com

WRITERS Alicia Ashcroft

CONTRIBUTORS Mel Rothenburger

SALES CONSULTANT Caroline Thompson 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.

A

need for an annual reserve fund and a worsening staff housing crunch have pushed two items to the top of the Sun Peaks municipality’s agenda.

Mayor, council and municipal staff held an information session on Saturday, Jan. 14 to discuss the potential purchase of Sun Peaks Utilities Corporation Ltd. (SPUCL) and forming a Sun Peaks Housing Authority (SPHA).

While no decisions had been made on either topic, Mayor Al Raine said he felt it was time to bring them forward to the community.

“These are significant financial decisions and would change considerably what the municipality is doing in the community,” he said.

SPUCL is currently owned and operated by Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) and is responsible for water and wastewater

Sun Peaks Independent News is pleased to welcome Caroline Thompson to their team as the new advertising sales consultant.

EMAIL CAROLINE@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM OR CALL 250-578-0276 TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS TODAY

ON THE COVER

Photo Jean Strong

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services. As a private company, it was ordered to set aside $80,000 annually for future repairs. A corporate tax would increase this amount significantly.

If the municipality bought the company, benefits for the ratepayers would include access to grant money, better borrowing rates and enforcing tariffs through municipal bylaws.

Disadvantages ranged from uncertainty of expanded municipal administration costs to the condition of the assets and the current lack of reserve funds.

KPMG LLP studied the financial feasibility of the purchase and concluded it rested on the success of obtaining grants, which is not guaranteed.

Options for the operation of water utilities favoured contracting current staff on a five year term as opposed to bringing in a third party operator.

Darcy Alexander, general manager of SPR and municipal councillor, explained that due to higher visitation numbers the current water and wastewater systems are just able to handle peak times and will need to be upgraded within two to three years. The first phase is estimated to cost over $100,000.

In the meantime, the municipality has applied for grants that, if approved, could trigger a referendum to purchase SPUCL. Securing affordable staff housing was also on the agenda. In the fall SPR obtained a three year temporary use permit

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

Construction on a new sewage facility takes place in 2008. | FILE PHOTO

for temporary staff housing after waitlist numbers soared. One resolution included the establishment of the SPHA. “Housing is the largest problem at almost every resort destination in North America,” said Alexander, and added that 50 to 150 new beds needed to be created in the next three years.

After studying options, the municipality said it favoured the Whistler model and hoped to build on its successes, which aim for staff to be able to purchase using 30 per cent or less of their income.

The proposed SPHA would operate as a not-for-profit with a board made of representatives from the municipal council, Tourism Sun Peaks, SPR, an independent business representative and a community representative. It would be wholly owned by the municipality and require full-time staff.

Funding would come through government grants, partnerships between private and not-for-profit organizations and the ability to levy charges on new developments to create non-market housing.

“Ideally, developers would be building with five to 10 per cent of units for rental housing,” said Raine.

Staff would qualify to purchase or rent units based on a points scheme and could only sell the property back to SPHA. Council acknowledged that even if the authority was set up immediately, the community would still be dealing with the shortage for several years.

Other measures such as bylaws placing limits on shortterm and monthly rentals may need to be assessed.Council will propose a housing authority resolution at February’s regular council meeting.

Unauthorized nightly rentals investigated As early as the end of January, Sun Peaks homeowners renting their properties nightly without correct zoning and business licenses could see cease and desist letters in their mailboxes.

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality has signed a contract with Host Compliance LLC, a company that helps local governments monitor and enforce short-term rental bylaws. Many other regions have used the service including the District of Tofino, City of Vancouver, City of Nelson and Toronto.

Mayor Al Raine said the municipality’s strong stance against nightly

rentals operating illegally comes after giving owners plenty of time to comply voluntarily.

“I think we’ve been more than fair in giving people adequate warning,” Raine said.

He added the municipality will support homeowners who go through the rezoning process as long as neighbours and affected parties don’t have major complaints.

Since business licenses were first required in 2014, the number of new licenses for nightly rentals has steadily increased. From Jan. 1 to 9 this year, 11 new licenses were purchased with many more expected.

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Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

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local NEWS MRDT INCREASE APPROVED

by JEAN STRONG

A

s of Nov. 1, 2016 the Municipal Regional Development Tax (MRDT) in Sun Peaks was increased from 2 per cent to 2.8 per cent. It was the first increase in the tax since 2004. The tax is applied to short-term accommodation in addition to the provincial sales tax with

>> Guests see 2.8 % tax on room nights the intention of funding local tourism marketing.

In total, the 2.8 per cent tax will generate approximately $425,000 this year, around $100,000 more than in

previous years.

The funds, which go directly to Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP), are used to market the destination and events. Additional money collected from the increase is expected to improve advertising to grow visitation and increase MRDT revenue.

The optional increase to a maximum of three per cent MRDT was legislated by the B.C. government in September 2015.

The decision to apply to the province to increase the tax came after a change in another tax known as Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) funding, which is part of the provincial sales tax. The majority of RMI funding is now only to be used for infrastructure development, taking money away from advertising and events funds.

Increasing the tax was supported by the municipality

and more than 50 per cent of TSP members.

TSP president Arlene Schieven said the increase is important to expand the marketing budget as the RMI funds change drastically year to year.

“We are excited about the strong results we are seeing this winter and are already turning our attention to our summer marketing and events program,” she said.

SNOW CROSS COURSE COMES TO SUN PEAKS >> Alpine Classic revamped after 20 years

by JEAN STRONG

R

acers at the Telus Nancy Greene Alpine Classic this February will face banked turns and rolls on a brand new snow cross course.

For the 21st year of the competition the race has changed from a traditional alpine dual race to a recreational snow cross race. The course will be designed by White Industries’ Jeff Ihaksi, who has designed courses for the Olympics, World Championships, and World Cups.

“White Industries is recognized around the world as

Skiers compete at a past Sun Peaks snow cross event. | PHOTO SPIN

building not only the high performance courses but also recreational courses that can be converted should the opportunity present itself,” said Nancy Greene Raine, director of skiing for Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR).

Funds raised at the event are donated to the Sun Peaks Health Association, Kamloops Royal Inland Hospital Foundation and Sun Peaks Racers.

“It is a nice way for them (the racers) to make a donation,” she said.

Municipal grant recipients announced Five community organizations and events will receive support from Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality in the form of a grant.

The Sun Peaks Hockey League (SPHL), Sun Peaks Health Association (SPHA), Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks, Sun Peaks Speed Skiing Club and Sun Peaks Scouts were all successful applicants.

A total of $4,370 was allocated from the $6,000 available.

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SPHL received $1,000 to be applied to the purchase of ice time. SPHA received $525 to be used for their rent. Adaptive Sports was given $1,145 to purchase t-shirts for volunteers. Sun Peaks Scouts received $700, which will be put towards a Wells Gray canoe trip and attending a Cuboree event. The Speed Skiing Club received $1,000 in event funding.

The Green Arts Festival Association and Chimera Theatre groups were denied

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

their applications for $14,590 and $10,000 respectively.

The Sun Peaks Skate Park’s application for $185 for a spring fundraising event was also denied.

Applications were due Dec. 15, 2016 and most groups made presentations to council and answered questions at the Dec. 19 regular council meeting.

Successful applicants must be non-profit, based in Sun Peaks and primarily benefit residents or special events held in Sun Peaks.

The course will be built on the Sun Catcher run. Four skiers or snowboarders will race as a team, starting a few seconds apart with the total team time used to determine the winners. Trophies will be awarded in two categories, Sport for the Telus Cup and Masters for the McSporties Cup. Olympic ski cross gold medalist Ashleigh McIvor will also be on hand to guest coach participants and help introduce them to a sport she introduced to the world at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics.

Greene said she’s excited about the alterations to the event and believes it will attract a different crowd than in previous years.

“We are hoping that it will attract a whole new group of participants and for returnees that it won’t be intimidating,” Greene Raine said. “Everybody that I’ve talked to is very excited about the changes.”

After the Feb. 24 and 25 competition the course will be open for public use.

With no air-time, the course will be designed for all ages

with an intermediate skiing or snowboarding ability.

The new feature may continue into future years with the help of summer grooming and snowmaking.

“The resort is looking at opportunities to continue it,” said Christina Antoniak, director of marketing and communications at SPR. “It’s a great addition for families,” Antoniak said. “A confident skier or boarder can feel good about coming into it.”

community CWSAA BOASTS 8.4 MILLION SKIER VISITS IN 2015-16 >> Current season pacing ahead

by SUN PEAKS NEWS

C

anada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA) has released highlights from its 2015-16 ski industry financial analysis, illustrating a large and impactful industry according to president Christopher Nicolson.

“You have to keep in mind these numbers are only the ski areas, and not the accompanying independent businesses, so it’s not an economic impact study. So to say

CWSAA President Christopher Nicolson poses with Stewart Laver and Al Matheson at Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort near Calgary, Alta. | PHOTO WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CWSAA

ski areas directly employ over 16,000 people, to me that’s a large and meaningful family,” Nicolson said.

In addition to employing a large number of people, the report also tallied 8.4 million skier

visits and a total annual revenue of $790 million.

“It crystallizes and puts in dollars and cents, and identifies how important the ski industry is to the British Columbia economy and the British Columbia

YOUNGER VOICES ADD DEPTH TO COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS BRANDI SCHIER PUBLISHER’S NOTE brandi@sunpeaksnews.com

I

get it, it was a Saturday afternoon. Many of you were working one of your two or three jobs that get you through the season. Or maybe you actually had a day off to shred and après with friends and

family alongside the guests. Or maybe you just need some time to chill on your couch. After a busy holiday season many folks need all the rest they can get.

We all have lives to live and should be able to choose how we spend our limited free time without feeling guilty.

But I was a little disappointed to look around the room at the municipal info session over the weekend and see I was one

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of only a handful of people under the age of retirement, and most were employees who had a specific reason to be there.

With the discussion involving a new housing authority to help out staff and young families, it was especially pertinent info for the missing demographic.

Maybe you don’t have to be there. Maybe you rely on your awesome local press to get you the info or maybe you feel you wouldn’t understand the issues even if you went. I get that too.

But I feel the more future residents get involved the better off the community as a whole will be, and the proposed solutions to the challenges we face and the discussions surrounding them will be richer.

Even if you can’t be there in person, I’m encouraging you to get involved in some capacity, whether it’s emailing council with your ideas, writing a letter to the editor if you disagree with something, or just talking to your peers about it.

And if you do show up at a meeting, you might not hate it.

Sometimes they have cookies.

tourism economy,” said Nicolson. “There’s no doubt that skiing is a prime winter driver for tourism in the province… If we’re talking $800 million in revenue, it’s a major employer and a major financial contributor to our entire economy, particularly at a time of year that offsets the highs in the summer.”

The annual report produced

by Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners is based on submissions by ski areas.

According to Nicolson, profitability was up with 74 per cent of ski areas posting a positive net income, as opposed to 48 per cent the prior year, which is indicative of how important weather is to the industry.

Nicolson said the remaining ski areas not posting profit are smaller, community-run, not-for-profit operations.

Another steady trend was summer diversification with around 10 to 11 per cent of winter ski areas now offering some type of summer activity.

Ski areas also contributed $15.3 million to government coffers through Land Use Fees and Property Tax (not including sales tax for goods and services).

Nicolson said Western ski areas have had a good start to the winter and he expected the positive trends to continue for this year.

“The pace reports for most ski areas are looking ahead of where they were last year. If all that comes to fruition, the skier visits should be up and numbers like total revenue and contribution to government should be up. That would be my expectation at this point in the year.”

Sleds operating illegally on Sun Peaks’ roads Kamloops RCMP are currently investigating five reported incidents of snow machines being operated illegally on Sun Peaks’ streets. In each case, owners were driving sleds down municipal streets to the trail heads instead of using a trailer to transport them.

Police would like to remind sled owners that this practise is not only dangerous but also illegal, carrying several fines including driving

without insurance, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and disobeying traffic regulations.

All community walking trails and the golf course are off limits to all ATVs and snow machines.

Sun Peaks Resort LLP also informed police that sledders who cross ski runs and the ski mountain to access backcountry trails are “chancing fate” and putting skiers in danger.

Sun Peaks property assessments up by as much as 30% Sun Peaks is bucking trends compared to the rest of the Thompson Okanagan in 2017 property assessments.

Where most areas saw changes from five to 15 percent in value, some Sun Peaks property values increased by as much as 30 per cent.

“The majority of residential home owners within the area can expect a modest change in value, compared to last year’s assessment,” said acting

regional assessor Graham Held.

A typical single family residential property in Sun Peaks increased in value from $726,000 in July 2015 to $832,000 in July 2016. The percentage change in value ranged from zero to 30 per cent.

Sun Peaks also made up the top five valued residential properties in the Thompson region, ranging from $2.3 million to $3.6 million, all located in the east village.

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

sunpeaksnews.com

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local NEWS DECEMBER SEES DOUBLE DIGIT GROWTH

by BRANDI SCHIER

I

f residents sense the resort has been busier this season, it’s not their imagination.

Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP) reported a 14 per cent increase in resort occupancy last month from the previous December and said the remainder of the season is pacing well ahead of last year.

“I think we’re in really good shape for significant double-digit increases,” said Arlene Schieven, president of TSP. According to Aidan Kelly, chief marketing officer of Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR), international visits alone are up by 50 per cent over last year.

“Markets like Australia, New

Zealand and the UK are way up. And those people are here now, in January and February, enjoying the resort,” he said.

In regards to skier visits, Kelly said they’re happy with the numbers so far this year, despite the weather challenges such as warm temperatures early on followed by two significant cold snaps.

“It certainly impacts skier visits. People are still up here, enjoying the village, but they may not be skiing every day,” he said.

Schieven also pointed to a significant increase in other winter activity sales, such as Nordic skiing, dogsledding and snowshoeing, to name a few.

“It’s not just skiing on the mountain. The sales that we are seeing for all other winter activities are doing really, real-

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A massive crowd takes in the New Year’s Eve celebrations, traditionally one of Sun Peaks’ busiest days. | PHOTO CEDAR LINE CREATIVE

ly well so that’s another trend that we’re seeing.”

The resort’s season pass campaign numbers were also up this year, although Kelly said they haven’t seen the us-

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Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

age they normally do by this point in the season.

“We’re in mid-season now and we’re expecting those people to start coming up and making use of the remainder of

their pass,” he said.

With the longer term forecast looking favourable, Kelly said it will be a strong season but it remains to be seen if it will be record-breaking.

“We will have a strong end, with Easter weekend and Snowbombing (Festival) the weekend before is already pretty much sold out. April is pretty much taken care of and will help mitigate the early season weather challenges,” he said.

Schieven said in addition to hyper-targeted digital marketing and media attention, she attributed the growth to the fact that many people are looking for an alternative to busier winter destinations.

“The quality of the experience is really standing out for Sun Peaks.”

M

andy Forsberg is a busy person. She homeschools seven children, some her own and some her sister’s, with the help of her husband and sister.

A number of the children face challenges with autism, fetal alcohol syndrome disorder, and other disabilities.

For over a year Forsberg has also received help from Danielle Renaud, a child and family consultant who resides in Sun Peaks.

“She has helped us parent in a much more proactive way,” Forsberg said. “It has brought our family closer together.”

The sessions, conducted in home, on Skype or at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Centre, have Renaud watch family dynamics and relationships to make suggestions on how to improve.

Forsberg’s youngest child, a daughter with special needs, has been helped greatly by the sessions. Forsberg said with Re-

naud’s help they have been able to learn what her daughter can understand and create boundaries. It has made them more hopeful for her future.

“It was really good,” she said.

“It was heartbreaking for us thinking she wouldn’t be able to function in the real world.”

Forsberg said she was desperate to understand one of her other children, who has autism, but struggled without help. Through sessions with Renaud she said she can now better understand and connect with her child.

“There’s nothing wrong with him; I just need to learn how to help him and understand how he sees the world.”

Renaud said many families like Forsberg’s in Sun Peaks and Kamloops have benefited from her counselling during what can be a difficult time.

“They are often frustrated because they have been through a few diagnoses before getting diagnosed correctly,” Renaud said.

“But they are usually relieved and eager to start.”

A session is tailored to the family and may include working

with parents individually, working with siblings, or the entire family together.

“Everyone is aware of what is happening,” Renaud said. “Siblings can benefit too.”

She spends time with families to create routines like chore charts, enforce boundaries, work with picky eaters, and help parents and siblings understand behaviour and create strategies to help manage them. She uses applied behaviour analysis and cognitive behavioural therapy to create real life solutions for her clients.

Every family has different needs, but for Renaud each is rewarding.

“It’s really rewarding for me,” she said. “I have clients who thank me but it’s them doing the work, I just provide the tools.”

“You have to have the right tools for the job. You wouldn’t try to use a screwdriver when you need a hammer.”

For more information visitbehaviourconsulting. com or contact Renauld at drdrenaud@yahoo.ca.

local NEWS PUTTING SNOW SPORTS WORKERS TO THE TEST IN THE NAME OF SAFETY >> “I’m passionate about ski resorts and snow sport resorts and I want to see them continue to do well...”

by JEAN STRONG

I

n December, 75 Sun Peaks ski instructors, guides, and managers took their shoes off and rolled up their pants to complete a test also used on competitive athletes, NASA astronauts and ballerinas.

Standing on a tilting box was part of a 15 minute session that also had participants disclose their injury history and complete a visual test that watched how their eyes scanned a screen.

It was part of a pilot study with local ski instructor, business owner and chair of Thompson Rivers University’s tourism management program, Anne Terwiel and her research team, Tracey Dickson and Gordon Waddington.

It all adds up to a score that shows participant’s awareness of where their body parts are in space relative to each other, known as proprioception.

While it may seem complicated, it has a purpose. Test

scores will be compared to injury reports over the season to see if there’s any connection between staffs’ proprioceptive ability and injuries.

“Proprioception is very clearly linked to injury or lack of,” Terwiel said. “People with really good proprioceptive skills are much less likely to trip and fall for example.”

That connection can help make work safer for anyone working on snow or slippery surfaces.

“You can train it to get better,” Terwiel said. “If you scored low we can say you’re at risk of a workplace injury so here’s some things you can do.”

Those things include simple exercises.

In analyzing the pilot study’s data so far, Terwiel has recognized emerging trends.

“We didn’t score as well as ballet dancers, they score the highest. But we have some good athletes in the group,” she said. “Some people with high scores.”

“And there appears to be at this point some correlation… people who have achieved level three and four (Canadian Ski Instructor Alliance certification) have better proprioceptive abilities than one and two.”

If the study passes the pilot stage, next year employees at all Canada West Ski Area resorts across B.C and Alberta could be put to the test.

Darcy Alexander, general manager of Sun Peaks Resort LLP, stands on the box as his foot tilts.

Christopher Nicolson, president of Canada West Ski Areas Association, completes the visual scanning portion of the test. | PHOTO SUBMITTED

| PHOTO SUBMITTED

It would be one more snow sport safety research project Terwiel’s team has completed in the last five years. The group has also examined helmets, hydration and mapping on-mountain behaviour with the goal of making snow sports safer.

“I’m passionate about ski resorts and snow sport resorts and I want to see them continue to do well, and one thing that doesn’t help resorts is the image of skiing as a dangerous sport,” Terwiel said. “What we want is documentation that it’s not as dangerous as people think.”

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Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

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GET out there CAUTION ADVISED >> Ski lift safety emphasized

by JEAN STRONG

A

The BC Safety Authority says using electronic devices while loading and unloading can lead to accidents. | PHOTO JAMIE VEILLETTE

series of ski lift accidents since December has the BC Safety Authority urging skiers and snowboarders to use extra caution.

One woman died after falling from a lift at Granby Ranch, CO. Others have been injured after incidents in Whistler, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Oregon and Utah.

David Looney, senior safety officer at the BC Safety Authority said their organization contin-

ually monitors incidents in other areas for trends. Despite an apparent increase in the number of cases in the media, there has been no increase at B.C. ski areas.

Sixty per cent of all reported passenger ropeway incidents are caused by passenger behaviour, but Looney said there are ways of keeping yourself safe. Restraining bars should always be lowered, riders should avoid making equipment adjustments and ensure backpacks and loose clothing, like scarves, aren’t caught on the lift.

He also emphasized the

importance of parents teaching their children to be safe on chairlifts.

If you are involved in, or witness an accident, Looney said it’s important to stay calm and alert staff.

“Never attempt a rescue yourself or try to move an injured party. Wait for First Aid to arrive,” he said. “Contact the ski hill to provide a witness statement to the ski area— this information is very valuable because it’s used to understand the mitigating factors that led to the incident, and can assist with prevention of future accidents.”

EMPOWDERING A NEW GENERATION OF SKIERS

by JEAN STRONG

A

s a professional skier, Izzy Lynch knows the draw of the Revelstoke backcountry.

She also knows that being a girl in the ski world can be intimidating.

Now she‘s using her 13 years of ski coaching experience to spearhead a backcountry camp specifical-

ly for young women, called Female Empowderment.

“I noticed that there’s no backcountry ski programs that provide specifically female youth with an opportunity to ask questions and learn in a

fun and comfortable environment,” Lynch said.

She created the camp alongside Kate Devine, a fellow ski guide and backcountry enthusiast. It’s specifically designed to support girls in

BYLAW OFFICER (Temporary) We are currently hiring a full time Bylaw Officer to cover a medical leave for approximately four months.

Hours of work are from 22:00/hrs to 06:00/hrs, including all weekends.

Applicants must have excellent verbal and written communication skills, be able to deal tactfully and effectively with the public and be impartial and firm with difficult enforcement matters. Applicants must also understand and effectively carry out oral and written instructions.

Applicants must have Bylaw Compliance, Enforcement and Investigative Skills Level 1 (or equivalent) and valid B.C. Driver’s License with clean drivers abstract. A full job description is available on our website at www.sunpeakmunicipality.ca Please forward resume and cover letter to admin@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca by January 30, 2017.

We would like to thank all those interested but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

learning to make safe choices while exploring.

“I wanted to tailor a camp to the challenges they may face as young women entering the backcountry,” Lynch said. “My goal is to make sure that the girls are getting the support and tools they need to get out there and explore the mountains while making safe and conscious decisions.”

The camp, which runs Jan. 20 to 22, has a classroom session and two days of ski touring at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Lynch and Devine’s home mountain.

“We will begin with an avalanche safety briefing, and the rest of the course will focus on building confidence in our decision making, communication, terrain assessment and group management skills in backcountry skiing. We will also work on developing technical ski skills,” said Lynch.

The course is supported by the Capow (Canadian Powder Guiding) Fund, established by professional skiers and guides to pay forward the support they were provided to achieve their own goals.

The girls at Empowderment attend for free, something that’s important to Lynch.

“The mission is to improve the accessibility of affordable backcountry shreducation for as many skiers and snowboarders as possible.”

One spot remains for the camp.

Email izzylynch@gmail.com for more information.

GET out there AVALANCHE DEATHS RISE, B.C. TOPS LIST >> Staying safe while chasing big lines

by JEAN STRONG

B

ig lines in the backcountry are a dream of many skiers and snowboarders. Pick up almost any ski magazine and the cover photo features fresh lines, billowing snow and bluebird sky as the ideal day on a mountain.

What isn’t pictured as part of that epic day is you or one of your friends being caught in an avalanche.

In the 2015-16 winter season 17 people were killed in avalanches in Canada, higher than the average of 13 annually. B.C. had the most fatalities since 2006 at 102; the next highest province is Alberta at 14.

Bodie Shandro is a heli-skiing guide and ski instructor

who teaches Avalanche Canada skills courses and his own mountain skills camps at Sun Peaks to give skiers and snowboarders the tools to make safe decisions.

“It’s a continued learning process for me,” Shandro said. “It’s recognizing the industry has romanticized and promoted the backcountry but the missing link is education.”

When I joined Shandro on a two day Avalanche Skills Training (AST) level one course in December I wasn’t sure what to expect, but his passion for educating others was clear immediately. It’s the most basic course offered but the content was important and tailored to our experiences.

As part of the first day we watched videos of people caught in avalanches or buried under the snow struggling to survive. The room of students was completely silent as Shandro let the reality sink in — when you go in the backcountry you’re taking risks.

Shandro said he likes to use videos to demonstrate that av-

Shandro shows students how to examine the snowpack. | PHOTO SUBMITTED

alanches are a serious and scary reality.

“Hopefully it creates fear and subsequently respect for what Mother Nature can do.”

The rest of the course was full of information to help students make safer choices. Types of

avalanches, terrain, weather, trip planning, and rescue techniques were all covered.

“You don’t know what you don’t know,” Shandro said, a mantra repeated often in his courses. “My goal for everyone taking an AST course is that

they look at the mountains in a new way.

“Instead of thinking of 10 reasons why you would shred that slope, come up with just one why you should not and back off if you do.”

Courses offered this season have filled up fast. On Jan. 21 and 22 Shandro will host another full AST 1 course as a part of Avalanche Awareness Days, a national celebration of avalanche safety in Canada with events spread across B.C., Alberta and Quebec.

For those who can’t attend, he recommended taking one of the other courses offered throughout the season. Spaces are available in a Mar. 4 and 5 course.

“First, get educated. Get some training, do at least an AST for fundamentals. Then get the gear,” Shandro said. “So much of it is about the education, not just having the gear.”

For more information on AST courses visit avalanche. ca, to contact Shandro email bodie@paddlesurfit.com or call 250 318 0722.

CANADA’S 2 ND LARGEST SKI AREA

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BUY Best Priced lift tickets online in advance!

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Photo: Sam Egan

*Rates include lesson only. Please inquire for special lift and rental rates. Taxes extra.

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

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&

arts ENTERTAINMENT FROM SEVEN STARS TO SUNNY SLOPES >> New executive chef brings international flair

by JEAN STRONG

G

rowing up in a small town in India, Sudhir D’Souza learned to cook by spending long days making curries and other local foods with his family. Now an executive chef with experience in international cuisines and having worked in kitchens around the world, he cooks faster, but still relies on the skills he learned at home.

He’s now bringing his wealth of experience to the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Centre as the executive chef.

When D’Souza was pushed out of his Fort McMurray home along with thousands of other residents last July as a wildfire ravaged the area, he visited Sun Peaks for the first time. After that, he said, the rest is history. He and his family returned to Fort McMurray at the end of the month-long evacuation to collect their belongings and moved to the resort community.

D’Souza said the mountain town’s school was a big factor in choosing the area.

“Once we came up here and we saw the school we said we’d love the lifestyle over here.”

A chef for 26 years, prior to working in Fort McMurray, D’Souza spent years working internationally opening large hotel chains. He worked to open restaurants in seven star hotels with a variety of fares including Vietnamese, Thai and Cambodian, where locals would cook their own authentic cuisine.

“I learned from watching these people,” D’Souza said.

“They can cook.”

He has also worked to open a Disney cruise line ship, cooked on a private island and fed heads of state and national sports teams.

The knowledge he gained from working alongside talented international chefs shaped how he cooks now and what he envisions for the Grand’s two restaurants.

On Dec. 1 he launched a new menu in Mantle’s that he designed with items from each of the many cuisines he learned to cook.

“My menu here is a touch of all those things,” he said.

“We’ve got an Indian curry, we’ve got a Vietnamese pho— it’s variations of those things.”

“We’ve got snippets of things here and there, it’s more of an international menu than just plain Canadian cuisine.”

He said he’s proud to offer foods he didn’t see offered elsewhere on the mountain and the reception has been positive. Now his focus is centered

D’Souza works in his new kitchen at the Sun Peaks Grand. | PHOTO SPIN

on creating a team in the kitchen that can elevate the offerings of the hotel and best use the equipment available.

“It’s a challenge. I am very trained with a lot of different master chefs but now it’s a challenge for me to train all the new people.”

After ensuring the kitchen ran smoothly through the busy holiday season, D’Souza planned

to take to the slopes learning to ski for the first time— a perk to a job he loves in his new home town.

“I don’t think there is anything else that I want to do. It’s fun, it’s pressure. There are some days where you can get really frustrated but then you see the food on the plate and say, OK, that is what we are in this business for.”

SUMMER CONCERT ACT ANNOUNCED >>Favourite Canadian band will celebrate Canada Day in Sun Peaks

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sunpeaksnews.com

by SUN PEAKS NEWS

A

s part of celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary, Sun Peaks will host band 54-40 for a summer concert. The famous national group hailing from Vancouver started making

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

music in 1981. Since then their hits have included “One Day in Your Life”, “I Go Blind” and “Ocean Pearl”.

Their most recent album was released in 2016 before they commenced a month-long Canadian tour.

More announcements regarding the celebration will be made in coming months.

54-40’s newest album ‘A History Unplugged’ is an inspired acoustic re-work of their classic songs. | PHOTO WWW.5440.COM

&

arts ENTERTAINMENT WINE BEFORE NINE? >>Well actually it was 10:30 a.m.

EVENT > listings FRIDAY

TUESDAY

JANUARY 20

FRIDAY RACE SERIES

Registration and bib pick-up is in the Village Day Lodge Breezeway from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. All Ages, $15 per person. Course inspection starts at 10:15 a.m. and racing starts at 11:15 a.m.

250 578 5442

THURSDAY

JANUARY 26

ART ZONE OPEN STUDIO NIGHT

Join local artists for a relaxing and social night connecting with others. Bring any arts and crafts projects you are working on. Workshops will be presented by some artists.

250 303 0595

WINTER WILDLIFE DAY

THURSDAY

Head to the BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops to meet and interact with wildlife. An indoor scavenger hunt and colouring event will also take place.

250 572 3342

JANUARY 26

ROTARY CLUB MEETING

Come out for an introductory meeting to bring Rotary to Sun Peaks for the first time. 5 p.m. in Morriseys Pub. 604 898 3144

FRIDAY

SNOWED IN COMEDY TOUR

One of the most unique events returns to Sun Peaks again as four international comedians stop in on their annual tour.

Spend a night laughing at some of the best Canadian comedians. The event is 19+. Doors to The Club open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8:30 p.m. info@snowedincomedytour.com

FRIDAY

JANUARY 20

FEBRUARY 7

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY 10

FRIDAY RACE SERIES

Registration and bib pick-up is in the Village Day Lodge Breezeway from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. All Ages, $15 per person. Course inspection starts at 10:15 a.m. and racing starts at 11:15 a.m.

250 578 5442

JANUARY 20

CAMPUS IN FLIGHT

Freestyle skiers and boarders take off of a flat land jump at high speed on the Thompson Rivers University Campus in Kamloops.

Indoor and outdoor seating, music and swag giveaways. Starts at 5 p.m. truout.here@gmail.com

FRIDAY

JANUARY 27

SUNDAY

Registration and bib pick-up is in the Village Day Lodge Breezeway from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. All Ages, $15 per person. Course inspection starts at 10:15 a.m. and racing starts at 11:15 a.m.

OVERLANDER LOPPET

FRIDAY RACE SERIES

FEBRUARY 12

From 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m take part in a cross country ski race at Stake Lake.

250 372 5514

250 578 5442 250 578 5442

SUNDAY

JANUARY 22

GARDEN RAIL JAM

Rip through the intermediate terrain park in 30 minute jam sessions. All ages.

Registration 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Village Day Lodge 250 578 7222

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

JANUARY 28 + 29

SUNNY SIDE UP SLOPESYTLE

Riders in the Rockstar Energy Terrain Park compete for BC Frestyle ranking points.

Compete or watch the athletes fly through the air for points.

250 578 54442

WEDNESDAY

250 578 5542

TUESDAY TO THURSDAY

admin@bcsnowboard.com

1 844 774 7263

“This was great! I’ve never mixed wine and coffee before,” a friend exclaimed at the Starbucks Sparkling Brunch hosted by Voyageur Bistro (VB) during the first weekend of the 2017 Winter Okanagan Wine Festival.

It was true. I hadn’t paired the two before either but perhaps it was because I don’t generally drink in the morning? But when you’re about to be treated to a four course brunch with sparkling wine and coffee pairings it seemed like the thing to do.

The sold out event took participants through an educational morning, filled with facts on coffee and wine varieties from four certified

Hit the slopes with your family, Sun Peaks’ alpine lift tickets are 50 per cent off for B.C. residents.

Air Nation Sun Peaks hits the Rockstar Energy Terrain Park. This national event is the second of three stops on the tour before the finals in March.

Join locals Sonya Trevisi and Kim Grunling in a free seminar on the management and treatment. 7 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Centre.

Coffee Masters and Wayne Currier , a sommelier from Bench 1775 located in Naramata, B.C. Built around a standout menu created and prepared by the VB team led by head chef Annie Campbell, it was a thoroughly enjoyable way to spend a Sunday morning.

We began by learning that one doesn’t drink coffee to taste it. One slurps it. Like a gentleman.

A cold Kenyan coffee was served alongside a tuna tartar and a cute-as-a-button quail egg. The Ex Nihilo sparkling was so nice —light and fresh with wonderful zings, setting the stage for the remaining courses.

Next, the best version of French toast I’ve ever tasted came across my plate.

B.C. FAMILY DAY

AIR NATION SLOPESTLYE

WELLNESS SEMINAR

by BRANDI SCHIER

FEBRUARY 13

FEBRUARY 14 TO 16

JANUARY 25

The coffee masters were on hand to answer participant questions on coffee. | PHOTO SPIN

MONDAY

FEBRUARY 17

FRIDAY RACE SERIES

HOSTING A COMMUNITY EVENT?

Registration and bib pick-up is in the Village Day Lodge Breezeway from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. each day. All Ages, $15 per person.

Course inspection starts at 10:15 a.m. and racing starts at 11:15 a.m.

250 578 5442

Add it to our online calendar

sunpeaksnews.com/events It was thick like a cake and contained wonderful fruits.

The savoury and sweet notes were paired with an amazing sparkling rosé brute by Bench 1775.

A blonde coffee was next in line with citrus notes making for easy drinking with a sparkling wine with fruity notes.

It set off the savouriness of a frittata with mushroom and smoked gorgonzola.

The dessert course saw a bold-tasting coffee from Africa with a wine varietal I’d never tried called a Frizzante— both were filled with berry notes and a lot of flavour. Paired with an amazing berry custard

tart and the similar flavours of all three components, it was a nice way to finish.

The Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival runs until Jan. 22. Look for this annual event in January 2018, which will most likely offer a few opportunities to taste some vino in the morning.

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

sunpeaksnews.com

11

OPINION WHICH IS BETTER: HYPER-LOCAL OR A STREAMLINED BOARD? MEL ROTHENBURGER TNRD REPORT director.mrothenburger@tnrd.ca

Mel Rothenburger is the TNRD Director for Electoral Area P, including Whitecroft and Heffley Creek. He was the mayor of Kamloops from 1999-2005 and a former newspaper editor.

“You don’t even live here.”

Ouch. I received that comment from a resident on a community concern I was dealing with a while back. While I certainly live in Area P, she was referring to the fact I don’t live in her particular community.

Residents sometimes feel their community should have more direct representation on the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) board, but on the other side of the argument are those who wonder if the board, at 26 members, is

already too big.

Let’s look at both points of view. Regional districts are a hybrid ward system in which rural directors are elected to represent electoral areas, and municipal councils appoint representatives to the board from amongst themselves.

In the case of the TNRD, there are 10 electoral area directors, six City of Kamloops directors, and 10 mayors from other towns in the region.

Municipalities are entitled to a certain number of regional directors based on population, which is why Kamloops has six (and pays the lion’s share of common costs).

Electoral areas take in pretty big geographic areas but giving them more directors would make for a huge and unworkable board. Based on

population clusters, Area P, for example, would probably need a half dozen directors.

Multiply that by the number of electoral areas and imagine a board with, say, 70 or 75 directors. Not to mention what it would do to the rural-municipal balance.

Although most of what rural directors do happens between board meetings, I can imagine each regional district becoming akin to a provincial legislature or federal parliament under such a scenario. And since those directors are paid stipends and some expenses, the cost to the taxpayer would increase to unacceptable levels.

So what about those 26 directors? I find the board meetings work quite well, especially under the capable chairmanship of John Ranta.

Some directors, it’s true, say little, while others say a lot, but it all works out.

A number of committees work in specific areas such as utilities and economic development for example, and there’s also an Electoral Area (EA) Directors Committee that handles very important localized issues.

Recommendations from committees tend to speed up board decisions, though I sometimes think the board should discuss committee recommendations more thoroughly. (I also wonder at times why municipal directors have a vote on policies and bylaws that affect only rural areas, but that’s a discussion for another day.)

In my view, the size of the board is about right. Area P is

the smallest in geographic size and the largest in population of the electoral areas — from where I live, I can get to most of the communities in the area in about an hour, and my old pickup truck has a lot of kilometers on it.

But there’s something to be said about hyper-local representation. I encourage communities and neighbourhoods who aren’t already represented by formal committees or associations to get one. Such groups are highly valuable to the EA directors in keeping tabs on localized issues before they get to the problem stage.

Community associations and fire protection services serve that purpose very well, but informal neighbourhood groups can be of tremendous value too.

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Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks Instructor Paul Desaulniers enjoying the first day of the Locals Program with student Erica

KamloopsThompson-Cariboo MP Cathy McLeod and Mayor Al Raine check out the new rink in Sun Peaks.

- Photo Submitted

- Photo Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks

Okanagan Wine Festival Society general manager Blair Baldwin introduces a wine event at Voyaguer Bistro.

- Photo SPIN

B.C. wineries and thirsty particpants took part in The Wine Crawl on Jan. 13 - Photos SPIN Sun Peaks’ Noa Hooton placed 2nd in the U14 Womens GS during the Teck Zone Races in Sun Peaks on Jan. 14 & 15.

- Photo Johnny Crichton

The Sun Peaks Freestyle Club makes appearance on Kamloops’ Midday.

- Photo Submitted

The Sun Peaks Racers after the Teck Zone Race on Jan. 15. See article and full results on www.SunPeaksNews.com.

- Photo Mike Lorimer

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

sunpeaksnews.com

13

MOUNTAIN news MOUNTAIN TOWN NEWS

by BY ALLEN BEST ALLEN.BEST@COMCAST.NET MOUNTAINTOWNNEWS.NET

Banff calculates strategy for boosting its recycling BANFF, Alta. – Banff town officials proposed that only clear garbage bags be allowed at commercial properties. The intent of the proposed requirement would be to create the transparency of what is thrown away in order to increase the rate of recycling of cardboard and organics.

A survey found that 80 per cent of businesses that responded to a survey support the requirement. However, only a quarter of the businesses responded.

Stavros Karlos, a Banff councillor, is among the supporters.

“It’s not onerous,” he said.

“Other places in the world have figured it out. We can figure it out.”

Figuring out the place for wolves among us CANMORE, Alta. – Wolves have been in the news from Alberta to Wyoming.

In Alberta, 10,000 people have signed a petition that they want wolves managed differently. Hundreds of wolves are killed in Alberta each year. Sometimes they are shot from helicopters. Other times they are poisoned with bait laced with strychnine.

The motives for killing the wolves are varied. Livestock ranchers want to reduce predation of cattle. Another motive is to reduce predation of the dwindling number of caribou in the province.

The Rocky Mountain Outlook reports that municipalities and other local governments are increasingly offering bounties for dead wolves. Hunting and trapping groups have also adopted bounties.

The petition seeks to prohib-

14

sunpeaksnews.com

it the posting of bounties on wolves by individuals, clubs, special interest groups, or municipalities. Strychnine would also be banned.

Kevin Van Tighem, a Canmore resident and critic of the bounties, told the newspaper that Alberta should manage wolf problems, not wolf numbers. Instead of randomly killing wolves, he said, wolves should be targeted specifically in the case of depredation problems.

That keeps wolf packs intact.

“The theory around this – and the theory is well supported by research – is that when you have a stable wolf pack structure, you have old wolves teaching young wolves how to make a living,” he said.

“That’s one reason wolves are a social animal that stay in these groups for extended periods of time, except the ones that want to reproduce and go out and disperse. But the rest of them stay in the pack. So you have a constant teaching mechanism… When you break that up, what you’re doing is truncating that education process, and you’re creating an inefficient hunting unit that is sort of blundering a bit, and they kill what’s easy. So it’s likely they’re going to kill livestock, because livestock are easy.”

He said current practices also increase survival of pups, because competition for food within the pack is reduced, in turn leading to an increase in the reproductive rate.

But what about the caribou?

Dave Hervieux, the province’s caribou management co-ordinator, pointed to industrial development in caribou range which primarily explains why only four of the 15 caribou populations are stable or increasing. But he said there are more wolves in caribou range, “and those wolves are preying upon caribou at greater rates that are not natural.” In most cases, that predation is greater than what caribou populations can sustain.

In Wyoming, U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney – the daughter of for-

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

mer vice president Dick Cheney – is attempting to override the Endangered Species Act in order to give Wyoming control over wolves. In this, she continues the efforts of her predecessors from Wyoming. The same thing is going on in the Great Lakes states where wolves are found.

“Wyoming should be able to manage the gray wolf without outside interference,” the congresswoman said in a statement quoted by the Jackson Hole News & Guide. The newspaper noted that a court in 2016 ruled that federal authorities were responsible for the nearly 400 gray wolves in Wyoming.

That case was appealed, and a ruling is expected soon.

During the last 40 years, Congress has rarely removed federal jurisdictions from management of endangered or threatened species. However, it did so in the case of wolves in Montana and Idaho. $20 an hour? Not enough for Whistler homebuyers WHISTLER, B.C. – Property assessments in Whistler increased 20.27 per cent in the year ending last June. This follows increases of 11.71 per cent and 6 per cent in prior years.

Most rapid were price increases in the lower echelons of the Whistler housing market, those properties priced $1.5 million and less, reported Pique News magazine.

But as brisk as that rise was, it paled in comparison with some of those in the Vancouver area. There, assessments for single-family detached houses jumped 30 per cent to 50 per cent in value from July 1, 2015, to July 1, 2016. Condos and townhomes rose 15 to 30 per cent.

In Whistler, the escalation at the lower end of the market puts home ownership beyond reach for many workers.

“I just don’t see any scenario going forward where the firsttime homebuyer making $20 an

hour is going to find real estate more affordable in the future,” said Pat Kelly of Whistler Regal Estate Co. This, he added in an interview with Pique, makes the Whistler Housing Authority, a government agency overseeing development and management of resident-restricted housing, all the more essential.

Fat-tire race to debut in Jasper National Park JASPER, Alta. – Frosty’s Fat Bike Race Series will debut in Canada on Jan. 12-14 in Jasper National Park.

“A lot of cycling enthusiasts like myself never like putting their bikes away for winter, and I think a lot of people are starting to realize that riding on groomed snow is actually, in some ways, more fun than riding on dirt in the summer,” said Randal Gibb, the race’s creator.

Gibb’s crew has organized several bike races since 2014, most of them in Utah. In Jasper, there will be a downhill race at the Marmot Basin ski area, and then a 50-kilometer course for advanced and intermediate riders, reports the Jasper Fitzhugh.

Tourism Jasper expects about 540 participants, some from neighbouring British Columbia and the States.

“We really want to build on

the fat biking trend and make sure that Jasper is recognized as an international fat bike destination,” said Myriam Bolduc, product development specialist with Tourism Jasper.

Aspen Skiing giving tiny houses a whirl ASPEN, Colo. – Might tiny houses fill part of the affordable housing gap in ski resort-anchored mountain valleys of the West?

That’s the proposition being tested by the Aspen Skiing Co. The Aspen Times reported the resort has paid $100,000 each for six “trailer coaches” that are being placed in a former RV campground at Basalt, located 18 miles down-valley from Aspen.

The coaches are like RVs in that they have wheels and are mobile. But they’re different in that they come in interesting shapes and have lots of windows, the Times said.

Inside, they really shine.

They even have flat-screen TVs mounted to the wall of the living rooms in the 500-square-foot units. And like all tiny homes, they take advantage of every square inch of space.

Aspen Skiing estimates it needs about 600 beds.

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sunpeaksnews.com

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

Excavating Ltd.

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Grether Contracting Serving Sun Peaks Since 1992 Kitchen & Bath Renovations Damage Restoration Drywall & Painting Concrete Repairs Building Maintenance & Consulting

CALL ANDRÉ "FIRST" 250-371-1753 • andregrether@gmail.com

>> sports FOSTERING RELATIONSHIPS ON THE SNOW

by JEAN STRONG

F

ive years ago Corey Wiwchar met Jayden and they became friends for the first time. They play board games, go fishing, snowboard and walk Wiwchar’s dog — normal friend stuff. Except while Jayden was eight years old, Wiwchar was buying a home, getting married and starting a family.

The friendship may seem unlikely, but Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Kamloops has been setting up similar matches for years.

Community members volunteer to spend time with a child and are matched up based on shared interests. They spend time together at different activities and events. The program provides a way for kids to gain experiences, mentorship and friendship and for volunteers to give back and learn from their little “brother” or “sister.”

Wiwchar and Jayden have taken part in many activities together over the years. Jayden even enjoys dinner at Wiwchar’s home with his wife and

two-year-old daughter and has met Wiwchar’s family and friends. Wiwchar takes Jayden to shop for his mother’s Christmas present and helps him work through the crazy world of junior high.

“We have things that are traditions for us,” Wiwchar said.

“There’s things we look forward to and that’s kind of cool.”

Snowboarding together at Sun Peaks tops the list. Every two weeks the pair make the trip up to the mountain for a day on the slopes. As a growing child, buying the necessary gear was expensive. But thanks to a partnership between BBBS and the Bluebird Day Fund at Sun Peaks, Jayden doesn’t have to worry about replacing his board or buying a lift pass.

Since 2012, the sports mentorship program has provided children at BBBS equipment, day passes and lunch for days on the hill, making winter sports more accessible.

Wiwchar said the program is essential for him and Jayden to enjoy snowboarding together.

“Without it, it wouldn’t be possible for us to go as much as we do.”

Wiwchar and Jayden warm up at their first day of the season Jan. 8. | PHOTO JEAN STRONG

But more than the adventures, Wiwchar cherishes the relationship they have formed and how he has watched Jayden grow.

“We can have more of a conversation now, he wants to know how I’m doing,” said Wi-

wchar. “He’s becoming more confident. He’s a pretty gentle person by nature but he is becoming more outgoing.

“He’s becoming a young man now, I want to encourage him to go to university and talk about what he wants to do after he’s

done high school.”

As of Jan. 1 a temporary hold was placed on new oneto-one matches at BBBS due to instability in funding.

To donate or volunteer with BBBS or to learn more visit bbbskamloops.ca.

The Olympic sport of Biathlon eagerly embraced by young skiers New this winter, Biathlon has been integrated into the Sun Peaks Nordic Club (SPNC) Jackrabbits youth program.

The club has taken its first steps to introduce the sport and completed indoor orientation sessions for laser rifle safety, handling, and sighting targets. Similar to the Paralympic Games, the lasers use electronic sensors rather than ammunition, and the club observes the same procedures as regular Biathlon.

The inspiration for including Biathlon in the club is based on fun and diversification, and has created huge interest and excitement. It also created an extra level of responsibility for the kids.

Just as the young skiers are taught responsibility for their equipment, nutrition, and hydration, Biathlon adds a requirement to adhere to strict safety protocols and behaviour.

“The kids responded famously and fully embraced and respected the opportunity,” said volunteer head coach Christopher Nicolson. “It’s wonderful to

see the development of our young skiers, both in their skiing ability and especially their character development and maturity. It’s inspiring to see this at such a young age, and is the biggest reason coaching is rewarding and fun.”

Initial steps began last winter when SPNC successfully applied for a grant from the Kamloops Blazers Foundation for four laser Biathlon rifles.

Coaching capacity was developed with Nicolson completing a specialized coach course.

Other assistance and donated materials came from Greg Smith, Fae & Dave Debeck, Anne Baughan, Anne Nicolson, Sun Peaks Resort LLP, Sun Peaks Municipality and various volunteers.

The SPNC Jackrabbit program started four years ago and now attracts 30 children aged four to 15 to cross country ski every Saturday morning.

For more information, go to www.sunpeaksnordicclub. com, or email spjackrabbits@gmail.com.

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

sunpeaksnews.com

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>> sports FREESTYLE SKI CLUB COMPETES ON TIMBER TOUR

by SUN PEAKS NEWS

S

un Peaks Freestyle Club (SPFC) head coach Daniel Hoerz is embracing a new season, growing pains and all.

“Starting with these kids three years ago, there was no real fundamental program or curriculum to follow at Sun Peaks,” said Hoerz, a Thunder Bay, Ont., product who lives in Kamloops and attends Thompson Rivers University.

“We’ve been creating an outline. Now we’ve got some guys that are doing back flips and front flips and can get off axis.

For them, the Timber Tour is such a great introduction.”

The club has 17 members, all boys, each of whom will vie for points at Freestyle BC competitions, including the Timber Tour

Grand Opening On behalf of Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality, Council and Staff would like to invite all Sun Peaks’ residents, visitors, and business owners to the official opening of our new project.

Outdoor Rink February 3, 2017 1:00 PM Outdoor Rink

series and at the Sunny Side Up Slopestyle event that lands in Sun Peaks on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29.

Most of the SPFC’s members are Under-12 skiers who will compete in the Timber Tour’s Super Youth categories. The majority of them have already been skiing under Hoerz’s tutelage for the past three years, even though this season is the club’s first as an officially recognized Freestyle BC outfit.

Some of the most advanced skiers are doing tricks Hoerz is forbidden to teach them during practice, such as acrobatic skills.

The head coach said that these are essential to the growth of the most competitive members.

“For training purposes, the biggest issue we have with Sun Peaks is them not allowing us to do any of those aerial manoeuvres off jumps because of resort legal-liability and risk-management issues,” Hoerz said.

“It’s unfortunate because these kids are going to hit a brick wall soon, with not being allowed to do back flips and do the training necessary to get to the regional and national levels.”

High-flyers such as 12-yearold Luc Dallaire, who is advanced enough to compete against Under-14 skiers on the Timber Tour, must learn to do

>> Event now two days March 11 & 12

by SUN PEAKS NEWS

ack for its sixth year, the Bluebird Banked Slalom is being invigorated with youth.

“Sun Peaks is a family resort and there are lots of youth you see every day up in the terrain park and through the trees

sunpeaksnews.com

| PHOTO SUPPLIED

back flips, corks, rodeos and mistys on their own time.

And that’s exactly what they do.

Dallaire, a Grade 7 student at Summit Elementary who has Team B.C. aspirations, can land a Cork 7, which is an off-axis 720.

“I did it on a trampoline a couple times, so I decided to take it to an airbag,” said Dallaire, who has been skiing and doing gymnastics since he learned to walk.

“Then I just kind of went for it on skis and it got cleaner and cleaner.”

Even if the resort were allowing Hoerz to coach those types of tricks, he said there’s a lack of equipment to teach them properly at Sun Peaks.

“We don’t have a gymnastics gym or the possibility to go to

next year.

He was 11 when he placed fourth in the Under-14 slopestyle and big air at the 2016 Games, narrowly missing the podium in both events.

“I can’t feel myself doing a double or triple cork, but I couldn’t see myself doing a cork when I was younger, so maybe,” Dallaire said when asked if the X-Games are in his future.

“I’m just going to keep working on improving and doing better in competitions.”

THE SCHEDULE Sun Peaks Freestyle Club members will attend Timber Tour events at Apex Mountain Resort near Penticton from Jan. 19 to 22, at Whistler from Feb. 2 to 5 and at Silver Star Mountain Resort near Vernon from Mar. 23 to 26.

The Double Header Slopestyle event will be held at Big White in Kelowna on Mar. 11 and 12.

For more information on the Sunny Side Up Slopestyle, which will include open men’s and women’s divisions, go online to freestylebc.ski/event/ sunny-side-slopestyle-sunpeaks/.

Email danhoerz@gmail. com for more information on the club.

YOUNG BLOOD JOINS BANKED SLALOM

B

18

Dallaire slides a rail in Sun Peaks’ terrain park.

Kamloops to use the TCC (Tournament Capital Centre) to train on a trampoline, then we’d need an air bag up at Sun Peaks, and then we’d need permission to do the aerial manoeuvres, which they’re not allowing,” Hoerz said. “There are a lot of hurdles to get over to give a reason for parents to come back season after season.”

Daniel Dallaire, Luc’s dad, has been in contact with resort officials open to changing the rules, but insurance liability remains the major roadblock.

“I hate to say it, but the unfortunate reality will be, once the kids hit that wall, they’re going to have to go to Whistler or Silver Star or somewhere else to seek the proper training and development, if they want to continue down this path,” Hoerz said.

But those are just the growing pains — and the X-Games and Olympics are a long way off.

The club, which operates underneath the Sun Peaks Snow Sports School umbrella, is still in its infancy yet it’s already providing a platform for skiers to reach the B.C. Winter Games (BCWG) and compete for titles on the Timber Tour.

Dallaire is the only Sun Peaks club member to have competed in freestyle skiing at the BCWG, which will be held in Sun Peaks

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

and all over the mountain,” said Aidan Kelly, the resort’s chief marketing officer.

“They got excited every year when they saw the banked slalom event going on and wanted ways to get involved.”

The resort’s first-ever youth banked slalom competition will begin at 11:15 a.m. on Saturday, Mar. 11, with skiers and riders aged nine to 18 primed to race down the naturally banked terrain of 5 Mile’s ‘Hully Gully.’

“It’s a great event that we’ve been partnering with the Bluebird Day Fund and their volun-

teers on,” Kelly said. “It does typically sell out every year.”

Registration and bib pickup will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. in the Village Day Lodge breezeway. Racers can also register online. It costs $35 to register for ages nine to 18.

The format isn’t complicated — fastest to the bottom in each age division wins.

Adults will take centre stage on Sunday, Mar. 12.

The $65 adult entry fee — $15 of which goes to the Bluebird Day Fund — includes a t-shirt, one beer and a burger, a chance at awards, priz-

es and entry to the Bluebird Banked Slalom After Party at Masa’s.

The fund, created 10 years ago in memory of Bryn Taylor, has raised more than $200,000 for its youth sports initiatives and programs.

“This is a good spectator event, as well,” Kelly said.

“There are a whole bunch of good vantage points along the edge of 5 Mile.

“There’s been a big uprising in the last number of years on banked slalom-type events and we have a great piece of terrain for it at Sun Peaks.”

Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16

sunpeaksnews.com

19

Serving Sun Peaks and area since 1995

ALPINE RESORT REALTY

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

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

55 CRYSTAL FOREST | $449,000

29 THE PEAKS | $364,500

LOOKOUT RIDGE RESIDENTIAL LOTS | STARTING AT$199,900

This is an outstanding 3 bdm, 3 bath townhouse w/ attached private 2 car garage. Home was modified from a larger 4 bdrm plan to maximize the area & offer a spacious open living concept with large bright kitchen. Cozy up in the sunny living area around the rock-faced gas fireplace with timber mantle or soak in your private hot tub on the oversized patio and take in views of Mt. Morrissey. The master bedroom turret features high ceilings, 3 piece ensuite & covered deck. Ski-in location with easy access out to the lifts, conveniently located between the main village and Morrisey Chairlift. Comes fully furnished. You will not be disappointed with this sensational resort home! GST paid.

This bright 2 bedroom townhouse is an end unit, and has convenient access to the Sun Peaks Village and chairlifts. The main floor living area features a central kitchen with pantry, dining room, spacious living room with gas fireplace, two outdoor decks and full bath. This home is ideal for gathering family and friends and provides a comfortable open space with private garage and extra storage. Upstairs are two bedrooms with a shared bath and laundry. This townhouse has views of some of the ski runs on Mt. Morrissey and is offered furnished and GST paid.

Choose the way you see the mountain! These large residential lots are south and west-facing which provide fantastic sun exposure and spectacular panoramic views of the mountains and valley. These generous parcels also offer ski-to/ from-your-door convenience with a skier overpass that was constructed solely to service this desirable subdivision. All underground services and zoning allows for a secondary suite within the residence. Sun Peaksʼ natural beauty and peaceful lifestyle turns resort guests into lifelong admirers.

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

7137 CAHILTY ROAD, WHITECROFT | $139,900

458 CAHILTY HOTEL & SUITES | $139,000

This is a fabulous building lot in the family friendly community of Whitecroft, located 5 minutes from Sun Peaks Resort and only a 5 minute commute to pristine Heffley Lake. This sunny level lot requires minimal site preparation and can accommodate a large single family home or duplex. Property backs onto forested area and features year round Louis Creek out your backyard. Whitecroft has a community water system with fire hydrants, high speed internet, cable, hydro and telephone are at the property line. Seller will build to suit. GST paid.

Welcome home to this deluxe studio that is extremely spacious with vaulted ceiling, dining and full kitchen area. Elegantly appointed with one of the best views in Sun Peaks Village! Enjoy unlimited owner use, plus the benefits of a professional in-house rental management team while you are away. Great slope side location with true ski-in, ski-out access, and you can easily walk to all Resort amenities! GST Paid.

21 CRYSTAL FOREST | $291,500

12 MCGILLIVRAY CREEK | $409,000

333 HEARTHSTONE LODGE | $42,000

Beautiful ground level 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo, which comes fully furnished and features a spacious open floor plan with cozy heated tile floors, cozy gas fireplace, private hot tub, ski storage locker, and 2 secure underground parking spaces. What a great location with convenient ski-in access close to Mt. Morrisey and all Sun Peaks Resort amenities. Easy walk to the main village, skating rink and Sun Peaks Golf Course. High speed internet and cable also included in the maintenance fee. GST paid.

Like new, level entry 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhouse in the very popular McGillivray Creek development. Conveniently located adjacent to the village with easy ski-in access and bordering the Sun Peaks Golf Course. The layout is bright and open & tastefully finished. Features include heated tile areas, warm fir accents, patio, crawl space for extra storage and private garage. This Creekside setting backs onto greenspace and the valley trail connects you to all resort amenities. GST paid.

The Hearthstone Lodge is nestled in Sun Peaks Village core with ski lifts and golf course right outside the door. This deluxe studio loft is fully furnished and features a well-appointed kitchen, cozy gas fireplace and traditional mountain motif. The lodge has a full exercise room and two outdoor hot tubs. Owner may use the property up to 180 days per year, for personal use. GST is paid.

20 SETTLER’S CROSSING | $329,900 This fully furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo offers easy ski-in, ski-out access. Features open kitchen, dining and living area with 9 foot ceilings, private covered deck with hot tub, heated tile floors and even a cozy gas fireplace! This pristine condo is located just steps from the 15th green of the Sun Peaks Golf Course, Nordic skiing and bike trails. In addition to the heated underground parking, there is a secure storage locker plus another ski locker by the front door entrance. Walk to shopping, restaurants and year round fun in the nearby Village! Sun Peaks is Canadaʼs second largest ski area and has become a favourite playground with outdoor enthusiasts. GST paid.

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

4206 BELLA VISTA DRIVE | $1,529,000 High quality custom built home in ski-in, ski-out location with spectacular window package and exceptional views of the mountains and valley. Open & expansive design and features a stunning floor to ceiling natural ledge stone fireplace. The cabinetry & finishing is impressive with high end appliances & fixtures throughout. All 3 bedrooms have private baths & comfortable hot water radiant heat on basement & main floor levels, plus a legal suite. The details in this home are outstanding with all natural stone, slate & soaring timbers.

208 COAST SUNDANCE RESORT LODGE

| $35,000

This is the perfect second floor deluxe studio suite. Features full kitchen overlooking the lifts and ski hill, corner fireplace and sleeps 4 comfortably. This condo is located right in the heart of the Sun Peaks Village with secure underground parking, outdoor hot tub and exercise room.

Professional in-house management team looks after everything. Owners have full ownership with a generous 180 days personal use per year. Coast Hotels manages the property and looks after the front desk and rentals when you are absent. The best ski-in, ski-out location with access to all resort amenities. This is a cozy home away from home.

2409 HEFFLEY-LOUIS CREEK

| $219,900

This is the perfect little acreage to build your dream home or getaway cabin with easy access in a great location. Enjoy the mountain and valley views from this south facing 5.13 acre property that is mostly forested with mature trees and a partial hay field. Power pole already installed with meter base and serviced with a 180ʼ well. Gorgeous country setting that is only 30 minutes to downtown Kamloops and 15minutes to Sun Peaks Resort. Heffley Lake is essentially across the road and offers year round recreation. All this and great neighbors too!

WWW.SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 20

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Vol 15 Issue 1 January 20 — Febuary 16