VOLUME 18 ISSUE 11
YOURS FREE TO TAKE HOME
JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21, 2020
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSIDERS FIVE DAY WEEK PAGE 2
WATER RATES TO CHANGE FEB. 1 PAGE 4
Pharmacy opens in February O’Malley joins roster of business owners diving in
CLANCY O’MALLEY WILL OPEN SUN PEAKS PHARMACY AND TELEPHARMACY IN FEBRUARY. Photo SPIN
JEAN STRONG
FROM COUGH AND COLD TO ONGOING MEDICATIONS, SOON RESIDENTS AND GUESTS OF SUN PEAKS WILL BE ABLE TO ACCESS A PHARMACY IN THE COMMUNITY. Sun Peaks Pharmacy and Telepharmacy will open in February in the Peaks West development of the West Village. Owner Clancy O’Malley has owned and operated a Pharmasave in Kamloops for over a year and is looking forward to opening on the
mountain as well. O’Malley was living and working in Nelson, B.C., when he had the chance to purchase the Kamloops location. But it wasn’t the first time he had lived in the area. While covering a maternity leave in Kamloops after graduating, O’Malley lived at what was then the Burfield Hostel. “I stayed there for the summer just biking and commuting,” he said. “It was a classic, fell-in-love-with-theplace thing.” The business in Kamloops gave him more than the opportunity to own his own pharmacy; it meant he could move back to Sun Peaks. Since moving back he’s considered opening a pharmacy in
the community and the additional commercial space in Peaks West made the dream a reality. O’Malley said the addition of the Sun Peaks Community Health Centre and strength of the school were also important factors in his decision. “It started to make more sense. You see the population growth, school development, they’re all hallmarks of a self-sustaining community rather than a group of people that make do... Everyone’s got a story about driving into Kamloops because they’re sick or their kid is sick. “Lots of people have talked about doing it (opening a pharmacy), I guess I’ll just actually do it and it will be there.” O’Malley said his focus is on serving
the local population. “Small pharmacies can really be whatever the community needs. The tourist business will certainly help but I’m really focusing on serving the community.” Currently he plans to have about half of the space as a store with things like personal hygiene items and medications. He said prices will be competitive with stores in Kamloops as the smaller items are less costly to transport. “It will be priced similarly to London Drugs or Shoppers Drug Mart. We can compete based on price with any stores in town.” During the winter a pharmacist will be available seven days a week.
O’Malley has already hired the individual, who has always wanted to live and work in Sun Peaks. During the shoulder seasons or quiet periods that can’t sustain a pharmacist on site, customers will still be able to access help with a telepharmacy video link to O’Malley’s Kamloops location. “Even if business really drops off in the shoulder season there can still be full pharmacy service every day. The majority of the time someone will be there but if for some reason the business doesn’t support it, we don’t have to close.”
READ MORE ON NEXT PAGE
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
1
LOCAL NEWS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
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 SUNPEAKSNEWS @SUNPEAKSNEWS
#SUNPEAKSNEWS #MYSUNPEAKS
OUR TEAM
CONTINUED FROM COVER O’Malley is one of a few residents who have made the leap to become business owners in the last year. Just next door in Peaks West, Bobbe Lyall opened Ohana, a deli and market, in December. It was a project she had always day dreamed about but with the new space she had the chance to make it a reality. “I always wanted to have a store under a residential area,” Lyall said.
JEAN STRONG
Brandi Schier
brandi@sunpeaksnews.com
MORE THAN 70 PARENTS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS CAME OUT FOR A CONSULTATION WITH SCHOOL DISTRICT 73 (SD73) ON JAN. 20.
Frankie Knight
frankie@sunpeaksnews.com
EDITOR Jean Strong
jean@sunpeaksnews.com
CONTRIBUTORS Carli Berry Courtney Jones Emily Perrins Justin Moore Kyle James Perri Digby Ron Betts Each issue reaches thousands of readers and one copy is available FREE to residents and visitors. Anyone taking papers in bulk will be prosecuted.
construction next door at Burfield West. It’s a welcome relief in a village where commercial space was hard to come by not long ago. In Peaks West commercial spaces are still available. It remains to be seen when more may be constructed in future developments. In the village Silvia and Mario Erler opened Fondue Stube in the space that previously housed Casa Mexicana and took over what was
Future of grades eight and nine debated
PUBLISHER
GRAPHIC ARTIST
“It’s the uniqueness about it being at the entrance to the village and the great parking...The growth of the families and staff in the West Village is just astronomical and that’s where I see a real sense of community blossoming in an organic way.” Sun Peaks Yoga and the Magic Cattle Guard also opened for the first time in Peaks West this winter. Down the road Richard Heinz Zimmer opened the doors to the Burfield Bistro, in The Burfield and more commercial space is under
The meeting was called as a result of SD73 potentially adding grades eight and nine to their responsibilities. Should SD73 pick up the two grades they have suggested a name change from Sun Peaks Elementary School to Sun Peaks School to better reflect the students. A new portable would also be required to house the students; the Sun Peaks Elementary PAC suggested
a location near the current high school students to help create a smooth transition. They have also suggested moving from a four day school week, which has been the standard in Sun Peaks since the creation of the education program, to a five day school week. Should the week become longer, SD73 suggested grades kindergarten to seven also shift to a five day week . The proposed change is something that has proven to be a hot button issue for parents, many of whom became emotional while presenting to the SD73 board. The four day week was originally selected to match the responsibilities of parents and lifestyle which is unique to the mountain
NEW THIS WINTER Nestled on the mountainside ‘Peaks West’ takes you back to where it all began with a fresh, contemporary twist. Located between the Sun Peaks Firehall and the Burfield Chairlift base, this vibrant community welcomes you with the modern conveniences you need.
community, including using the Friday for extra physical education as the children don’t have a gymnasium. In a survey completed by the PAC, 95.2 per cent of parents wanted to retain a four day week. Harriet Burge presented comments from some parents including that many parents work in the resort and must work weekends but can have Fridays off for family time. Burge added parents also use the additional day off for appointments, reducing absences from school, and extracurricular activities that cannot be offered on the mountain like swimming, trampolining or music lessons. In a report prepared by the PAC, parents suggested a number of ways to retain a four day week. The scheduling proposed by the PAC changed slightly depending which spring break was selected
once the Heffley Boutique Inn, wrapping it into their Sun Peaks Lodge family. In 2018 Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality sold 192 business licenses (including name changes or property sales) and in 2019 sold 116. In the West Village, once the pharmacy has opened, O’Malley said he will split his time about half and half between the two locations, and will still live where he loves to, in Sun Peaks.
but generally added only three to 13 minutes per day for grades eight and nine to keep a four day schedule. Elementary start and finish times would be slightly altered. Before changes were made by SD73 in 2017 when instructional hours were changed, students attended longer per day than they would on the new proposed schedule without issue. In fact, the PAC reported, Sun Peaks Elementary’s performance is ranked at the top of public schools in the district. Trustee Kathleen Karpuk addressed parents as the meeting closed, saying they will take all of the feedback into consideration and encouraging parents to continue to submit their opinions before a decision is made. Feedback can be sent to facilityinput@sd73.bc.ca until Feb. 14, a decision will be made by SD73 on March 9. Read more at sunpeaksnews.com .
COMMERCIAL SPACES AVAILABLE INFO@MERANTI.CA
OPEN NOW!
1240 ALPINE ROAD next to Sun Peaks’ Fire Department
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.
Sun Peaks Pharmacy• ON THE COVER
& Telepharmacy•
PHOTO SPIN
2
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
•
W W W. PE AKSWE ST. CA
For those with memories to make OPEN DAILY 9 TO 5 IN THE VILLAGE STROLL AT SUN PEAKS 250.578.7773 SUNPEAKSCOLLECTION.COM OP EN HOUS E: SAT URDAY FEB 8 1 - 3 P M
Thinking of Selling? We have buyers looking for listings. Contact our office for a free market evaluation.
$2,250,000 gst applicable
$2,950,000
4213 Bella Vista Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
5429 Lookout Ridge Place, Sun Peaks, BC
BEDS: 4 + FAM BATHS: 4.5 4,219 SQ. FT.
BEDS: 5 + FAM BATHS: 6 3,500 SQ. FT.
Ski-in/out, spectacular views over mountains, valley & village. Smart home technology, exposed timbers, theatre room, gym, family room, gourmet kitchen, radiant heat, backyard putting green & gas firepit. Fully furnished. sunpeakscollection.com
Brand new, true ski-in/out mountain modern home. Triple garage, professionally designed, thoughtful functionality, and ultimate accessibility with master on main and roughed in elevator. Furnished. Self contained revenue suite. sunpeakscollection.com
N EW P R I C E | O P EN H OUSE : SUN DAY JA N 26 TH 1 - 3 PM
INT RODUCING
$749,900
$689,900 gst applicable
$739,000
1310 Burfield Drive, Sun Peaks, BC
47 Woodhaven, Sun Peaks, BC
13 McGillivray Creek, Sun Peaks, BC
BEDS: 3 + LOFT BATHS: 2.5 1,645 SQ. FT.
BEDS: 2 + FAM BATHS: 3.5 1,613 SQ. FT.
BEDS: 3 BATHS: 2 1,325 SQ. FT.
Beautiful half duplex with luxurious finishes. Bright, spacious living area with wall of windows for dramatic views to Mt. Tod’s ski runs. Hardwood & heated tile floor, private garage for toys & gear. sunpeakscollection.com
Tourist Accomodation Zoning. Ski-in/out access to the Orient & Morrisey chairlifts. Level entry two bedrooms with ensuite baths, daylight walkout rec room, & private garage. Mountain views & hot tub. Fully furnished.
2 chairlifts, nordic trailhead, creek & golf course next to complex. Only a 5 min walk to the village! Level entry. Rear walkout to patio & greenspace & hot tub. New paint & appliances. Zoned Residential. QUART E R OWN E RS HI P
$429,000
$499,900
$99,900 gst applicable
38 Snow Creek Village, Sun Peaks, BC
15 Burfield Heights, Sun Peaks, BC
1304 A The Residences, Sun Peaks, BC
BEDS: 2 BATHS: 2 769 SQ. FT.
BEDS: 2 BATHS: 1 1,330 SQ. FT.
BEDS: 2 BATHS: 2 1,014 SQ. FT.
Exceptional location, privacy & views. Zoned Tourist Accommodation. True ski-in/out access to main chairlists. Shared heated garage. Fully furnished, large covered deck with hot tub. sunpeakscollection.com
Next to new Peaks West commercial hot tub in Tod Mountain, the heart where Sun Peaks began. End unit, next to greenspace with creek, true ski-in. out access to chairlifts. Lower level rec room plus sauna. New hot tub & fully furnished. sunpeakscollection.com
1/4 OWNERSHIP luxury suite in ‘The Residences.’ Fully furnished & true ski in/ski out convenience in a central location. Use of hotel amenities such as pools, hot tubs, gym, ski & bike valet & much more. sunpeakscollection.com
NOW SELLING
Quarter to Full Ownership
NOW SELLING
Starting from $73,900 GST Applicable
boutique condo and commercial development
SUNPEAKSCOLLECTION.COM
BURFIELDWEST.COM The developer reserves the right to modify or change plans, specifications, features and prices without notice. Materials may be substituted with equivalent or better at the developer’s sole discretion. All dimensions and sizes are approximate and are based on architectural measurements. This is not an offering for sale and such offer can only be made by Disclosure Statement E.&O.E.
The developer reserves the right to modify or change plans, specifications, features and prices without notice. Materials may be substituted with equivalent or better at the developer’s sole discretion. All dimensions and sizes are approximate and are based on architectural measurements. This is not an offering for sale and such offer can only be made by Disclosure Statement E.&O.E.
YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS
HELEN JONES OFFICE MANAGER
SOTHEBYSREALTY.CA
DAMON NEWPORT SALES REPRESENTATIVE
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 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
3
LOCAL NEWS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Municipality moves to increase water rates JEAN STRONG
AS SUN PEAKS MOUNTAIN RESORT MUNICIPALITY (SPMRM) GRAPPLES WITH INCREASING CHALLENGES SUPPLYING TREATED WATER TO THE COMMUNITY THEY HAVE ANNOUNCED A CHANGE IN THE STRUCTURE OF CHARGES FOR WATER. While unprecedented growth and development in recent years has been a boon to the municipality it has created challenges with the water supply. Previously water came only from ground aquifers, however the supply of water in the aquifers hasn’t been able to adequately meet the community’s demands.
In a release from SPMRM they said 30,000 cubic metres of surface water was taken from a snowmaking reservoir to meet demand last year. The same system will be used to supplement water this winter while SPMRM secures funding for upgrades and additions. However surface water requires different, more complex treatment which is being completed in one surface water treatment plant and eventually another, expected to be ready sometime in 2021. With this in mind, water rates will be changed to reward those who conserve water and to be more costly to those who use more than a single family residence, hotel, condo or townhome should. Those who exceed the set amount will see additional
charges for consumption in excess of their needs. SPMRM chief administrative officer Rob Bremner said the acceptable amount was set by taking the average water use of a number of homes with yearround residents. He added this way owners who use their homes part time should see little effect on their rates but those full time residents or commercial properties using excessive amounts will pay for it. While researching flows and current use SPMRM said they found some residences using disproportionate amounts of water. “High usage properties sometimes use more than 400 per cent more water than the average residence in a given month,” stated the release. “In
New flights to YKA may improve accessibility EMILY PERRINS BUDGET AIRLINE SWOOP HAS ANNOUNCED A NEW KAMLOOPS TO EDMONTON, ALTA. ROUTE FOR THE SUMMER. It’s one of just a few returning air services that will help promote the accessibility of the region, including Sun Peaks. The Kamloops to Edmonton route will be offered between April and October on a one year trial by Swoop, a subsidiary of WestJet. According to Ed Ratuski, managing director of Kamloops Airport (YKA), the route was
4
previously serviced by WestJet and was quite successful, but was suspended in 2016. “We’re very pleased that it’s coming back with Swoop,” he said. Ratuski added that if the route proved to be viable, YKA would look to “preserve that market yearround.” “I think as Sun Peaks develops the area as a summer destination as well, that’s where we can work with the Swoop service,” he continued. “We can really start to promote what Sun Peaks has to offer as well with the different hiking and mountain bike options that they’ve introduced up there.” Meanwhile, Air Canada Rouge
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
is continuing its trial service from Kamloops to Toronto, which launched in 2018. Despite no formal announcement from the airline that the route would remain, tickets are currently available for booking for one flight per week from June through August. Ratuski stated this is another route YKA would like to see become year-round—a sentiment shared by Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP) president Arlene Schieven. “Any new routes are welcomed as we work to improve access to Sun Peaks,” she wrote via email. “The Toronto summer route is an excellent addition, but of course
THOSE WHO USE MORE WATER THAN AVERAGE WILL BE CHARGED ADDITIONAL FEES, SO WATER CONSERVATION IS ENCOURAGED. File Photo
hotel properties, we observe that two hotels of similar size, one with new efficient toilets and shower heads uses only 35 per cent of the supply going to a hotel that has older toilets and showerheads.” The bylaw allowing for the changes will be given three
readings during the Jan. 21 council meeting and will be adopted at a special council meeting to allow it to be in effect by Feb. 1. Online billing is also in the cards for Sun Peaks’ utility users. SPMRM expects to be able to bill residents online in April.
we would love to see this route during the winter when we see many more visitors from Ontario.” “Most of our summer visitors to Sun Peaks come by car so the impacts we would see from additional summer flights are fairly minimal. However, adding non-stop flights from new destinations in the winter would have a significant impact on visitor numbers,” Schieven added. “For the winter traveller, the fewer flights they have to take, the better.” To this end, TSP has been working with YKA to reinstate a seasonal winter service from Seattle to Kamloops, which was provided by Horizon Air in the past. The route was discontinued in 2009 due to aircraft availability, Ratuski said, but he added they are
pitching for the route to return for the 2020-21 winter season. YKA already experiences a boost in traffic over winter due to snow seekers. “The numbers are generally 20 to 25 per cent higher during the winter season and it’s largely due to a flux of ski traffic up to Sun Peaks,” Ratuski said. In keeping up with these winter crowds, shuttle services from YKA to Sun Peaks have also expanded. Sun Star, Tastefull Excursions, Kamloops Limousine and Sun Peaks Taxi’s shuttle now all offer chartered shuttles to and from YKA for visitors to Sun Peaks. “Satisfaction with the shuttle service for the airport is very high,” said Schieven. For more information on air carriers and routes serving the Kamloops area, see
LOCAL NEWS SPMRM moves to borrow more than $8 million for utility projects
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
JEAN STRONG
DURING A DEC. 17 MEETING SUN PEAKS MOUNTAIN RESORT MUNICIPALITY’S (SPMRM) COUNCIL VOTED TO MOVE AHEAD WITH AN ALTERNATE APPROVAL PROCESS TO BORROW JUST OVER $8 MILLION. The funds are needed to upgrade the water and wastewater systems in the municipality. The wastewater treatment plant requires upgrades to the composting facility, a
fourth trench, replacement of bioreactor wall, pump and auger replacement and sewer main repairs. The estimated cost is $1,560,000. The water system requires a new surface water storage pond along with organics and non-organics removal. The estimated cost is $6,500,000. An alternate approval process will allow opposed residents to respond against the borrowing while those in support don’t have to take any action. If SPMRM received
50 responses against the planned borrowing they could hold a referendum or chose not to proceed with the borrowing bylaw. Should the community approve, the inspector of municipalities will be asked to approve the borrowing in May so SPMRM can take it to the Thompson Nicola Regional District by July and receive final approval from the Municipal Finance Authority, who will provide the loan. The alternative approval process response period will be from March 1 to 31.
Rural RCMP to receive additional member to increase coverage EMILY PERRINS FUNDS HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED FOR AN ADDITIONAL RCMP OFFICER AT THE K AMLOOPS RUR AL DETACHMENT TO HELP SUPPLEMENT POLICE COVER AGE OF SURROUNDING AREAS LIKE SUN PEAKS. The announcement was made in December and according to Insp. Karen Delorey of Kamloops RCMP, they hope the position is filled by the end of January. “(Sun Peaks) won’t see a big impact due to one member, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction to get additional resources, as we know that whole area has been growing over the last number of years,” Delorey said. There will be no changes made to how the RCMP responds to Sun Peaks, which is in the catchment for Tk’emlups Rural RCMP detachment along with other outlying communities like Pinantan Lake, Knutsford and Skeetchestn. Delorey said In cases where rural RCMP members cannot respond to a serious incident in Sun Peaks due to ongoing events elsewhere,
Kamloops officers would assist until a rural member could respond. Needless to say, an additional officer for the rural division will bolster coverage of its own area without reducing police numbers in Kamloops. In another boost to police numbers, a new support team of four officers is being introduced to cover vacancies, emergencies or other incidents in the region, though it won’t be allocated to Kamloops specifically. “They’re going to be a dedicated resource team for the South East district, so they’ll be coming to rural areas which require assistance, whatever that might be,” Delorey said. Sun Peaks’ mayor, Al Raine, was positive about the news. “Any increase in numbers was good for Sun Peaks,” he said. Raine stated that during busy periods, like over Christmas, the population of Sun Peaks swells to that of a small city. “I think the superintendent is aware that (when you) get 8,000 to 9,000 people
there should be some kind of police presence, but in the past he hasn’t been able to do that because there are requirements in other areas of the region, and it’s a huge region that the rural division is looking after,” he continued. “(During critical periods) in the past two years, they’ve been able to achieve a pretty good presence in Sun Peaks.” He said he believes a lot of the positive impact from police presence in Sun Peaks is preventative, especially in curbing disorderly behaviour and drunk driving. When incidents do occur, Raine said, most of them are minor incidences and many have to do with alcohol. He added that incidents do occur more than meets the eye. Raine refuted the possibility of a permanent police presence in the village in the near future. “The typical thing of Sun Peaks is the seasonality, and the difference between weekends and midweek. There is probably more than half the year where it is quiet from a policing point of view in Sun Peaks.”
CONNECT WITH US
@sunpeaksnews VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
5
LOCAL NEWS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Ride sharing a Whistle away in some B.C. towns COURTNEY JONES WHISTLE WILL OFFICIALLY LAUNCH NEXT MONTH AFTER BEING ANNOUNCED AS THE FIRST RIDE SHARING COMPANY IN B.C. TO BE LICENSED FOR OPERATION. Tofino locals and tourists will be able to enjoy ride sharing from Feb. 1, while Whistler will need to wait until Feb. 6. Whistle founder Dylan Green has been working hard to encourage locals to sign up to the new initiative as drivers since December, often showcasing the company at job fairs in the community. “The job fairs are a way for us to introduce Whistle to locals, talk to them about how they can sign up as drivers and the requirements our drivers will need to have,” Green said. “We’ll be here to help them through the process of gaining their class 4 license and passing the knowledge test.” Green is no stranger to the transportation industry, having operated an inter-city bus company in Tofino for the last 15 years. “I know too well the challenges resort communities face during peak visitation, such as holidays
and weekends. I see ride sharing as a new transportation alternative that will provide real solutions for Tofino, Whistler and their neighbouring communities. “In resort towns, ride sharing will provide tourists and visitors with effective transportation. But uniquely, it will also help residents, many of whom must commute to work outside their community, by offering pooled rides. “Smartphone apps have an amazing ability to connect people together to solve transportation barriers that have existed for years. Ride sharing’s ability to add many casual drivers with their own vehicles will finally make it possible for a small transportation company to have enough cars on the road during peak demand times.” Safety is a key component in the new ride sharing regulations and finding qualified drivers with the right vehicles will take time. “Getting the right insurance and the right drivers has definitely been a big focus, ensuring both drivers and riders are safe from the time a ride is booked, to when the rider arrives home. “We expect many local drivers will be excited to help launch a new transportation industry, and
RIDE SHARING WILL SOON BE A REALITY IN WHISTLER AND TOFINO. Photo Fikri Rasyid
to have the ability to drive on their own time, with their own vehicle, and earn the majority of the fare.” When first starting the foundations of Whistle, Green noticed locals and tourists alike often take to community pages on social media to find affordable and convenient transport up and down resort mountains to the
nearest city or town. “It’s so normal to share your car now, that there needed to be an industry for it...Being the first ride sharing company in B.C. is both a big responsibility and a huge opportunity for a small, local company. We are grateful for the opportunity to launch ride sharing in Tofino and Whistler. “We’re hoping this is the first
East Village development called off after sluggish sales
step to allow other businesses to duplicate what we’ve done and apply it to other resort communities like Sun Peaks...Our focus is on Tofino and Whistler currently and getting it right, but we hope to see it expand in the future,” Green said. To find out more about Whistle or apply as a driver, visit whistle.ca.
READ MORE STORIES AT
JEAN STRONG
A DEVELOPMENT PROPOSED IN THE EAST VILL AGE WILL BE POSTPONED, SAID SUN PEAKS RESORT LLP (SPR) GENER AL MANAGER DARCY ALEXANDER. Elevation was set to be built in the location of parking lot six and featured condos with sweeping
6
valley views and communal recreation and hot tub areas. However, a slow start to sales since the official announcement of the development in October 2018 meant SPR and A&T Project Developments Ltd. called the project off for the time being. Alexander said while he believes the project would suit the area, especially
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
when the planned East Village hotels and services are developed, that vision wasn’t communicated clearly enough to potential buyers. He also said many buyers are now looking for townhome style properties more than condo or apartment style. Work has begun on another SPR multi-family residential real estate
development in the East Village, currently called Parcel 36. Alexander said it will be a mix of styles of homes and will go ahead as planned.
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK @sunpeaksnews
sunpeaksnews.com
LOCAL NEWS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Property assessments continue to increase
PROTECT YOUR GAS METER
JEAN STRONG
SUN PEAKS HOMEOWNERS RECEIVED THEIR ANNUAL ASSESSMENT NOTICES IN JANUARY. Throughout the Thompson and Okanagan regions most homeowners saw increases. Overall the area saw an increase of $6 billion in assessments. Sun Peaks’ properties total assessed value increased 14.23 per cent from $805,089,000 in 2019 to $919,650,000 in 2020. Individual homeowners of residential properties saw an average increase of 10 to 25
per cent, strata residential properties increased an average of five to 15 per cent, and commercial and strata commercial properties an average of zero to 10 per cent. While most properties saw a similar or slightly smaller increase in assessed value compared to 2019, strata hotels saw the largest increases in the 40 to 50 per cent range. Property owners who have concerns about their assessment can contact B.C. Assessment and speak to an appraiser or submit a notice of complaint by Jan. 31 for an independent review.
5,000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED Pick up locations downtown, Sahali, Aberdeen and the North Shore Local advertising starting at $110 per month SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/ ADVERTISE
Jetsitters lands in resort
Sun Peaks is preparing for snow. While this is great for snow sports, it’s not so good for your gas meter. Remember to keep your gas meter set clear of snow and ice. Do not use the area around your gas meter for storage of items such as skis, shovels, snow-blowers, wood, etc., such that access by Utility staff or emergency personnel is obstructed. In an emergency, a first responder may need to shut your gas service off at the meter set. Don’t forget overhead ice can fall off your roof and break the meter set causing uncontrolled release of gas. Utility staff can assist you in clearing the heavy snow and ice covering your gas meter set. Please do not try and remove any ice coating the gas meter yourself. Remember, that if Utility’s staff must clear the gas meter during monthly meter reading or for safety reasons, you will be charged a fee of $50 for the 1st incident & $100 for each additional time. If you have any questions regarding this notice please contact the Utility’s office at info@sunpeaksutilities.com or call 250.578.2020 Monday to Friday After Hour Emergency 250.319.0629
In an emergency, please call 9-1-1
Easy to book childcare and pet sitting expands from Big White JEAN STRONG
AFTER LOOKING AFTER COUNTLESS KIDS, JETSITTERS IS EXPANDING TO PROVIDE BABYSITTING IN SUN PEAKS. THE BIG WHITE, B.C., BORN BUSINESS HAS EXPANDED THIS WINTER TO OFFER SERVICES IN SUN PEAKS, SILVERSTAR, B.C. AND BANFF, ALTA. Founder Jacky Martin said she started the company when she and her family moved to Big White and she saw a need for parents to have freedom while on vacation. “I want to reinvent how families do the family vacation. I think all parents should get to have just as much fun as the kids,” she said. Martin has worked to ensure the company, which also offers pet sitting and rentals of toys and equipment, offers a high level of service to customers and their children. “As I design our systems and automations, I have two goals: first, for our parents to be surprised at how easy and convenient our service is; and two, to be delighted by the top
quality of our caregivers and feel confident their children are in good hands. We are caring for their most precious loved ones, and with this in mind, I’ve set up a tight system of sitter controls.” Pre-screening, references, requiring qualifications and strict onboarding policies are used to offer trusted sitters. Martin has also implemented geo-location tracking for sitters with selfies taken on arrival and departure to show sitters are where they need to be at the correct time. “I think parents are surprised by the quality of our caregivers and our professional end-toend experience and this is definitely what sets us apart from other sitter services out there,” Martin said. Their expansion into other resorts this year comes after working with the Accelerate Okanagan program to hone her product and how it’s offered. She said the Export Navigator program from Export Canada has also helped her enter the new market. Since starting in 2015, Martin said, they’ve expanded to around 250 team members.
BABYSITTERS WILL BE EASIER TO COME BY AS JETSITTERS LAUNCHES IN SUN PEAKS. Photo Alexander Dummer
“Our clients are thrilled with the high caliber of care we provide,” she said. “All of our sitters are fully vetted and either have a professional background in childcare or have been
trained in a related industry. We get nurses, teachers, autism specialists, early childcare workers, international au pairs, ski instructors, first aid attendants, and other such
professionals. We are caring for your children and that is a responsibility we hold in the highest regard ” Sitting and rentals can be booked online at jetsitters.com.
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
7
LOCAL NEWS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Cannon steps down from education society board JEAN STRONG
AFTER YEARS OF HELPING GUIDE EDUCATION IN SUN PEAKS MARIA CANNON HAS RETIRED FROM THE BOARD OF THE SUN PEAKS EDUCATION SOCIETY (SPES), WHICH OPERATES THE SUN PEAKS SECONDARY ACADEMY (SPSA). Cannon has played a key role in pushing for education options in Sun Peaks since before the SPES was founded in 2010. She has served as a director and served as president twice. “I think the great thing with the board is that it has always been a great group of individuals who are passionate and committed to the vision of a community based school,” Cannon said. She added she’s proud of being able to work alongside the other members to bring education to Sun Peaks. “Being able to work together with such a great group of people and the community not only to establish a school here but also to keep momentum.” Other highlights include seeing kids arrive in the classroom for the first ever school day on the mountain and the first graduation ceremony. Since its inception, SPES has raised more than $800,000 and has worked hand-in-hand with SD73 and the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality. Despite leaving the board Cannon will stay busy and engaged in education as she takes a position on a newly formed School District 73 (SD73) steering committee. With a permanent Sun Peaks school now on the capital list for SD73, the
MARIA CANNON WILL STILL BE INVOLVED WITH EDUCATION IN SUN PEAKS AFTER THE CHANGE. Photo Supplied
committee will assess short and long term goals for the school. In the added free time Cannon said she hopes to
spend more time with her own child. “On a personal note for us now it’s always family first. The focus is on our son
CONNECT WITH US
who’s in grade 10. “I’m feeling really so fortunate that we have this amazing opportunity for our child to go to school
competitive rates: hourly or contract
Open since 1998, this shop has become a favourite of Sun Peaks’ guests.
@sunpeaksnews
”LET US DO YOUR DIRTY WORK” SPECIALIZING IN:
SITE PREPARATION, RESIDENTIAL EXCAVATION, GROUND WATER ISSUES, BOULDER STACK RETAINING WALLS
New feature artists such as David Langevin, jewellery, many gift ideas & memorable souvenirs.
Located in the Coast Sundance Lodge
250 578 2673
FOR ESTIMATES: 250-851-1021 | OFFICE@POWDERVENTURES.COM
LOCAL BUILDER 40+ YEARS EXPERIENCE BUILDING YOUR MOUNTAIN DREAM IS OUR BUSINESS! 8
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
in our community from K to 12,” Cannon said. “It’s an incredible place to live and an amazing mountain lifestyle.”
Call or text 250-318-8428 to view our projects
LOCAL NEWS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Mayor Raine notifies public of December stroke JEAN STRONG
THE MAYOR OF SUN PEAKS MOUNTAIN RESORT MUNICIPALITY IS RECOVERING WELL AFTER EXPERIENCING A MINOR STROKE IN DECEMBER. Al Raine told SPIN he found himself feeling strange after a Destination BC board meeting in midDecember. He said he knew the numbness and tingling
on the right side of his body and face met the signs of stroke but didn’t seek help immediately. After flying from Vancouver to Kamloops, Raine visited the hospital and received treatment for what he said was a “very small” stroke. Despite the incident Raine was released from hospital the same day and is now back on skis. “I feel in good health and don’t have any thoughts of packing it in or anything...
if it got worse I’d consider it. While Sun Peaks is important your life is probably more important.” The warning signs of a stroke are sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body), sudden confusion or trouble speaking and understanding speech, sudden vision problems, difficulty walking, dizziness or loss of coordination and severe headaches.
Meranti snags 11 finalist spots at upcoming Keystone Awards JEAN STRONG
LOCAL DEVELOPERS ARE BEING RECOGNIZED BY THE CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL KEYSTONE AWARDS. Meranti Developments is a finalist and may take home gold for 11 projects across a variety of categories. They could take home awards for the Best Single Family Detached Home from $750,000 to $1 million for the Bigg’s Residence and may win in the Best Single Family Detached Home $1.5 million and over for the Iliffe Residence. They are also finalists in the Best Multi-Family Townhome Development for their five-plex on Burfield Dr. and the Clarke/Walker Residence. Other categories Meranti is a finalist in are Best Bathroom under $30,000 and Best Bathroom $30,000 and over, Best Kitchen Design Project $50,000 and under, Best Kitchen Design $50,000 and over, Best Marketing
Project: Website, Best Customer Service and Best Innovative Construction/ Architecture/Design. A&T Project Developments, who have completed many developments in Sun Peaks, have also reached the finalist stage. They are up for an award in the Best Customer Service category. Another Sun Peaks home has earned Klein Homes Ltd. a finalist spot for Best Single Family Detached Home from $1 million to $1.5 million. Winners will be announced at an awards gala in Kamloops on Feb. 1.
ONE OF THE HOMES BUILT BY MERANTI WHICH IS UP FOR A KEYSTONE AWARD. Photo Supplied
WESTSYDE YDE VICE SERVICE • 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
Auto Repairs Diesel Repairs Air Conditioning Repairs Gov. Certified Inspection Facility
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Everyday
BILL & MIKE LINDSAY
Located on the ground floor of the Residences at Sun Peaks Grand
Ph: 250-579-5532 Fax: 250-579-5852
250.578.2414
3475 Westsyde Rd., Kamloops, BC V2B 8C5
Antares Counselling
REGISTERED MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY anxiety | grief & loss substance use/addictions stress management trauma | PTSD
located in the Sun Peaks Community Health Centre Mondays/Thursday 10am-4:30pm KAREN LARA, MC CCC
info@antarescounselling.com
250.299.8543 antarescouselling.com
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
9
COMMUNITY
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Captured! Village Views KYLE JAMES THE LONG WAIT FOR SNOW SEEMS LIKE A DISTANT MEMORY NOW. WE’VE HAD WEEKS OF CONSISTENT SNOWFALL AND PLENTY OF POWDER L APS WITH A GOOD CREW, IN MY CASE AT LEAST—I HOPE YOU’VE BEEN OUT THERE GETTING THE GOODS TOO! For this shot I boarded with my camera backpack all day and shot a bunch of exciting powder photos. To tell you the truth, I would usually take a few warm up
laps, scope the terrain and snow out before grabbing my camera, but I knew it was going to be a special day thanks to pristine conditions and awesome riding buddies! Luckily for us my new lens arrived the day before and you can safely bet I was excited to try it out. We shot a couple of ideas in the trees, off jumps and, of course, powder slashes. For me, this photo is one of the best from the day, showing off the energy we all had while riding some of the best powder I have
ridden here at Sun Peaks. The stoke was high! I won’t tell you exactly where I took this photo, but if you ride one of our green runs and take a detour off the groomed piste, you might just find it... One of the biggest tips I could offer in taking a similar shot, or any snow sport shot, relates to positioning. Knowing the sport will help you lots here too. Keep in mind if the rider is regular or goofy, or, if skiing, which turn side is their preference as you want to ideally be
photographing the front of the rider/skier rather than their back. You should position yourself downhill, slightly to the front side of the rider, far enough that your rider can get enough speed for the maneuver— you’ll know this by riding the terrain first to get to your spot to take the photo. After that it’s all down to timing. A good starting point is “burst mode” which will allow you to fire off a number of shots per second to capture the action. See you on the mountain! Settings: 1/1250 - f8.0 -
ISO 400 | Shot using a Sony A7iii + 70-200 lens. Rider: Zuzy Rocka Kyle James is a photographer & filmmaker from Sun Peaks. To see more of his work visit www.kylejames.co Contact: kylejamesimages@gmail. com
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK @sunpeaksnews
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 10
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
COMMUNITY
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Australian fundraisers throughout resort this month SE VER AL COMMUNITY AND CORPOR ATE LED FUNDR AISERS FOR AUSTR ALIAN BUSHFIRE RELIEF WILL TAKE PL ACE IN SUN PEAKS.CENTERING AROUND AUSTR ALIA DAY ON THE WEEKEND OF JAN. 25 AND 26. “ Par ticip at i ng in fund ra i si ng ef for ts t o s h ow s uppor t for th e situ at ion i n Aus tral i a is i mp ort a nt for th ree d if ferent re a s on s ,” s aid Ai d a n Kelly, m a rke t i n g direct or of Su n Pe a k s Res ort LLP (S PR ) . “ Fi rs t ,
it ’s j us t t h e rig ht t hin g t o do . S e c on d, Au st ralia is a ve ry i mp or t a nt pa rt of ou r re s ort , f rom b ot h a st a f f and gue s t p ersp ec t ive. We ’ re s t ron gly c on n ec t ed. T h i rd, Su n Pea ks ha s re c e ive d a lot of sup port f rom v a rio us folks due t o o ur ow n f i re relat ed issues ove r t h e ye a rs, t his t ime it ’s o ur t u rn t o help .” A S au s a g e Siz z le ( b a rb e q ue ) w ill t a ke p la c e on S at urday, Ja n . 25 at M a s a’s B a r + Grill a n d at M a nt l e s Re s t au ra nt 11a .m.
t o 4p .m. On e hu n dred p er c ent of t he proc eeds w ill b e don at ed f rom The M a sa’s B a r + Grill Au st ralia D ay Pa rt y w ill b e c over by don at ion , w it h 100 per c ent of t he proc eeds mat c hed by b ot h S PR a n d t he Su n Pea ks Gra n d Hot el & Con feren c e Cent re. A p ost in a loc al Fa c eb ook g roup by resident Alex Smit h helped t o g alva n iz e t he c ommu n it y resp on se t o help t hose in Au st ralia , show in g a st ron g desire a mon g Su n Pea kia n s t o g et
involve d. In addition, Tourism Su n Pe ak s and SPR have don ate d sk i vacation pa c kage s to be raffl e d off in Austral ia through tour operators and Austral ian media. Ot he r fundraising in it iative s have al so take n pla c e , such as Sun Pe ak s Yog a’s K arma Cl asse s and t he Magic Cattl e guard’s Meat Raffl e , as we ll as ma ny re side nts donating direc tly to Austral ian org a nizations.
“It’s a sad and unfortunate situation and we are pl e ase d to be abl e to assist in our own, small way by he l ping rally the community for both financial and symbol ic support,” said Ke lly. “Hope fully things take a turn for the be tte r soon for all those impacte d.”
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @sunpeaksnews
Businesses blossom with boost from Community Futures JEAN STRONG
WITH A LITTL E BIT OF HELP, SUN PEAKS RESIDENT GABRIELLE MCBR ATNEY, L AUNCHED BACK TO BASIC EATS IN JANUARY. THE BUSINESS OFFERS PREPARED MEALS FOR REASONABLE PRICES, MAKING NUTRITIOUS EATING EASIER FOR THOSE ON-THE-GO. McBr at ney f i r st s t a rt e d h e r bu si ness i n K a m lo op s a few yea r s ago , b ut a f t e r only a sh or t t i m e op e r at i n g h e r fa m ily m oved. Wit h roots n ow f i r m ly p l a nt e d in Sun Peaks sh e’s fo c u s e d h e r energ y on g et ti n g b a c k up and r u nni ng . In the relau nc h she was g iven a bo o s t f rom Commu nity Fut ure s , a provincial p ro g r a m t h at provides lo ans, a dv ic e a n d
s up p or t t o e nt rep ren eu rs. A f t e r re t u rn in g t o t he a re a , McBrat n ey met w it h C om mun it y Fut u res in Augus t of 2 0 1 9 a n d q u ic kly dove h e a d f i r st int o rel au n c h i n g. S h e s a i d t he p roc ess of t h e s e l f e mployment p ro gra m w a s int en se, she s p e nt h o u rs p e rfec t in g t he b u s i n e s s c on c ep t , f in din g k it c h e n s p a c e a n d n a ilin g dow n f i n a n c e s . Wit h t h e h elp of her business c oa c h she at t e n de d re gula r c hec kins. “ It h e l p e d me st ay on track and mot ivat ed,” s h e s a i d. “ T h i s is a g reat s t e p p i n g s t on e .” McBrat n e y s aid she ha d h e l p t o ke e p her idea s re al i s t ic a s well a s t o f i n d a s s i s t a n c e for a rea s of her b u s in ess, like i n s u ra n c e , a c c ou nt in g a n d p ro gra m m i n g, whic h were
a c hallen g e. As of Ja n . 6 McBrat n ey st a rt ed a c c ept in g orders. D ow n t he mou nt a in in Whit ec rof t , Gen eviève B ujold of Mou nt a in Pea ks Na ils ha s also t a ken pa rt in t he p rog ra m. Wit h t heir g u ida n c e she op en ed a home st u dio, elevat in g t he ex perien c e of her c lient s. The Thomp son Cou nt ry b ra n c h of Commu n it y Fut u res help s c ommu n it ies in c lu din g Ka mloops, Su n Pea ks, Clea rw at er and ot hers w it h b u sin ess loa n s, c oa c hin g a n d c on n ec t ion s for t hose in t heir va riet y of prog ra ms. For more in format ion on what help is ava ila b le for ent repren eu rs visit communityfutures. n et or c ont a c t in fo@ c ommu n it yf ut u res.n et . McBrat n ey’s delic iou s c reat ion s c a n b e fou n d at b a c kt ob a sic eat s.c a
GABRIELLE MCBRATNEY LAUNCHED HER FULL MEAL SERVICE IN JANUARY. Photo Supplied
Want to start or grow your business? Call today for all your small business needs – from business planning to loans!
330 Seymour Street Kamloops, BC, V2C 2G2 T.250.828.8772 COMMUNITYFUTURES.NET
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
11
COMMUNITY
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
COLUMNIST VIEWS
Don’t forget gratitude Local business owners deserve support and respect, not ridicule JEAN STRONG
WHEN I FIRST MET KURTIS WYLLIE HE HAD JUST MOVED TO SUN PEAKS. HE AND HIS WIFE WERE ABOUT TO WELCOME THEIR FIRST CHILD AND I SAW THE SPARK IN HIS EYES I’VE SEEN IN SO MANY PEOPLE WHO HAVE DISCOVERED THE MAGIC OF SUN PEAKS AND BEEN HOOKED. He saw something missing in the village and started Sun Peaks Taxi. As any business owner in the community knows, starting your own enterprise from scratch is work intensive and expensive but Kurtis dove in head first and opened last year with two taxis. I was proud of Kurtis, and when we first wrote about his endeavour I saw what I’ve grown accustomed to
from my neighbours, great support for someone who took a chance. But over the last two years I’ve become increasingly disappointed by the response to the company as they worked out kinks like any brand new business does. Staffing was a challenge, just like with any other business in the resort, and with limited staff and tight restrictions on hours driven per-day they tried to balance as best they could. Other challenges were the huge costs associated with licensing and operating the taxis solely on in-resort fares of $10 to $20. To stay afloat and continue to operate they picked up longer trips to Kamloops, SilverStar and even Whistler. The fares from long rides sustained offering service to locals in the village. This year Sun Peaks Taxi took over the contract for operation of the shuttle for Sun Peaks Resort
LLP but also took the heat for the resort’s decision not to continue to pay for a shuttle into the later hours. But as one of our own, someone who also loves Sun Peaks, has purchased property, started a family, enjoyed the outdoors and walked his dog alongside us struggled, I saw a more negative response develop. While Kurtis slept, after driving for the maximum number of hours allowed in a day, nasty Facebook messages came in about not getting a ride home from a party at 4 a.m. While he drove a family to Whistler and came back the same night, in an attempt to pay the vehicle’s insurance for the month, rude voicemails were left from those who expected him to be available. While he shoveled out the cars after a record dump of snow, and all throughout the last two years, people who felt entitled to immediate service posted and commented on social media. When a store can only temporarily accept cash due to a technical problem, people accept it, or even like it, as a quirky small town problem. When a restaurant’s last staff member gets injured skiing or can’t find housing and leaves and they’re forced to close for a day unexpectedly, posts aren’t made blaming them for missing lunch. When businesses open late on a
Fire on the mountain RON BETTS RESIDENT SKI WRITER A native of Cape Breton Island, Ron Betts has called Sun Peaks his home mountain since 2008. Ron splits his winter between guiding heliskiers in the central Monashees and working with the Sun Peaks Ski School. He is a frequent contributor to Ski Canada Magazine.
IN 1992 I BOARDED A CATHAY PACIFIC FLIGHT BOUND FOR HONG KONG. MY FINAL DESTINATION WAS AUSTRALIA, AND THEN ON TO A SMALL SKI AREA IN NEW SOUTH WALES CALLED CHARLOTTE PASS VILLAGE. CHARLOTTE PASS (NAMED FOR CHARLOTTE ADAMS WHO WAS THE FIRST EUROPEAN WOMAN TO SUMMIT MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO) IS THE HIGHEST SKI AREA IN AUSTRALIA AND A PLACE OF INCREDIBLE BEAUTY AND HISTORY.
From the top of the triple chair you are rewarded with spectacular views of the main range of Australia, including its highest mountain, Mt. Kosciuszko, or TarGan-Gil, its Aboriginal name. It should be remembered that Aboriginal Australians gathered in the high country for thousands of years before Europeans ever laid eyes on the area. Here peoples would gather and feast on the Bogong Moth. While I never got the opportunity to try a moth, I did develop a deep appreciation and affection for the landscape and the people who were drawn to it. I spent three ski seasons teaching and coaching at Charlotte Pass, and a further nine at nearby Perisher Valley. What drew me back each year was the easy access to the main range and the connection I felt being so close to an area that
inspired author Banjo Patterson to pen his most well-known work, The Man from Snowy River. Indeed, the Snowy River was a barrier to the great skiing that lay beyond its icy banks. It took some mental fortitude to remove your boots and socks, roll up your pants and wade across the Snowy, the entire time trying not to slip on the icy rocks. The western faces of the Great Dividing Range were the reward. The Sentinel, Twynan Spur, Mt. Townshend, Club and Blue Lake chutes and, the most coveted of all, Watson’s Crags. These were the perfect places to commune with one of the most unique mountain environments in the world. What they lacked in height, they more than made up for in beauty. The Snowy Mountains are also one of the most vulnerable places
powder day, change their hours, stock less in the shoulder season, or run out of our favourite coffee there isn’t anger or attacks. When SPIN is delivered a day or two late due to snowy roads or is less pages than we’d like because we sold less ads one month we don’t get emails, messages and voicemails. It’s all understood as a part of resort and rural life, a small price to pay for living in this paradise every day. But the same understanding was never extended to Sun Peaks Taxi as they worked long hours and late nights to make it work here, like we all want to do, and provide a service. While we enjoy all the perks of living here it would be beneficial
to be more understanding of those who are so committed to our community they take huge personal and financial risks to better it. This January is the last month Sun Peaks Taxi will operate as such. After losing drivers and the other challenges it’s no longer possible to run the business as a taxi, only the shuttles will remain. Instead of comments mocking someone who’s tried their hardest let’s remember to be kind to our neighbours, and if the bus is late due to record setting snow put the phone down, take a deep breath of fresh, mountain air and be grateful we get to call Sun Peaks home.
Community Grants in Aid Extended The Municipality is accepting applications for the 2020 Community Grant in Aid. Applications will be received until February 12 from community based groups. The full grant program guidelines can be found on our website. For more information contact Nicky Braithwaite at admin@sunpeaksmunicipality.ca
for the plants and animals that are adapted to live there. Some of the species are already threatened. The Pygmy Possum was thought to be extinct and was only rediscovered in 1966; there is also the Corroboree Frog, a critically endangered species that is extremely at risk because of habitat loss caused by drought and fire. Indeed, the recent fires may have sealed the fate of these species. Last week a friend sent me a video of a water bomber dropping fire retardant on Stillwell Ridge, the last high point between Charlotte Pass and the Snowy River. While the images and stories about the Australian bushfires have been heartbreaking, I was especially saddened to think about the impact fire would have on this part of the country. These species are adapted to live in mountainous terrain. Their habitat is limited, and they don’t have the option of relocating should it be destroyed. If
that were to happen, the effect on these species, and others, would be catastrophic. In the case of Charlotte Pass, a swing in wind direction and a bit of rain kept the fires at bay. Another small ski area, Mt. Selwyn, was not so lucky. Fire overran the area and destroyed buildings and vehicles. It’s doubtful whether they will be operational this coming winter. Money and resources are pouring into Australia from around the world to help with this tragedy of unimaginable proportions. It’s made me want to revisit an area that fundamentally changed me for the better. I’m torn. Encouraging people to go explore the Snowy Mountains, while a great idea for the local tourism economy, would require flying there. Air travel isn’t helping the root cause of some of the extreme weather events we’re seeing throughout the world. Maybe it’s time we all learned how to sail.
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 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
GET OUT THERE
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Future forecast is less snow, more rain with climate change CARLI BERRY WITH RISING GLOBAL TEMPERATURES, SUN PEAKS CAN EXPECT MORE PRECIPITATION AND LESS SNOW, SAYS A THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY (TRU) RESEARCHER. Tom Pypker, a climate change and ecosystems management professor at TRU and Sun Peaks resident, said he’s surprised that ski resorts haven’t campaigned more aggressively for government action to limit carbon emissions. For Sun Peaks he said in a “do nothing scenario,” which the world is currently on track for, rising global temperatures will cause a decrease of snowfall throughout the season by roughly 20 per cent, but with the same amount of precipitation, meaning that Sun Peaks will see more rain during the shoulder seasons. Today, the average daily temperature sits at around -5 C for the ski season, but he
expected that will change to as high as 0 C by 2070. “If Canada and the rest of the world actually meet their Paris Agreement objectives, the impacts will actually be pretty marginal… you’ll still see warming but the impact on the snow won’t be as significant,” he said. In 2015, Canada and 194 other countries reached the Paris Agreement, to limit the global average temperature rise to below 2 C and pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 C. To reduce carbon emissions, Pypker suggested the resort should create more public transportation from Kamloops and Sun Peaks, and encourage ride sharing programs as transportation and congestion are issues. With propane as the main source of heat in the municipality, he suggested that people begin using wood burning pellets, which are a renewable source of heat as opposed to propane. Aiden Kelly, chief marketing
officer with Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR), said the resort has an environmental management system which is discussed on a weekly basis. As an example of initiatives the resort is undertaking, Kelly explained technology is helping the resort reduce paper waste by moving waivers online. This has saved roughly 160 pounds of paper waste in the last six months, he said. To groom the runs, new technology has allowed the resort to track the usage of each machine to reduce fuel consumption, he said, adding it’s in the resort’s best interest to become more efficient from a business perspective. While electric snow cats or snowmobiles aren’t on the table for Sun Peaks yet, the electric industry is something the resort is paying attention to, Kelly said. SPR does not own a shuttle, but does have partnerships with local providers, one of which runs daily in the peak season until March 31. “(Shuttles) are something
DESPITE A RECORD BREAKING SNOW YEAR, EXPERTS SAY SUN PEAKS SHOULD BE ACTIVELY ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE. Photo Stanley Dai
that the private sector takes care of,” Kelly said, adding that conversations are happening within the resort to develop a plan promoting and incentivising carpooling. “Almost our entire business is dependent on the weather. Whether it’s really cold temperatures that we’ve seen
over the past week, or if it’s really warm temperatures that we saw in the spring that curtailed our operations, or forest fires in the summer, all these things impact us… so we pay close attention to climate change,” Kelly said. Calls to Mayor Al Raine were not returned by press deadline.
Favourite programs for intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders.
BEYOND THE GROOMERS A focus on skills improvement in steeps, glades, moguls and powder.
INTRODUCTION TO BACKCOUNTRY On-mountain camp focused on safety and awareness of mountain hazards; terrain assessment, tree wells, overnight survival, and more.
GUIDED GIL’S BACKCOUNTRY TOUR A private tour of Sun Peaks’ legendary backcountry terrain with a professional guide and instructor; you’ll learn the safest routes and best stashes while improving your technique.
We have programs for all ages and skill levels! Bump or Carving Private Lesson Ladies Clinics Freestyle Camps Park Posse Private Freestyle Lesson Learn to Ski/Snowboard
Fresh Tracks Private Lesson Cruise the Blues Performance Lesson Private Ski/Snowboard Lessons Sun Kids & Sun Tots Programs
SunPeaksResort.com/Winter-Programs | 250.578.5505
*for ages 19+. Book in advance, spots limited.
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
13
ARTS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Smith’s art ignites interest PERRI DIGBY ROBERT TAYLOR ORIGINALLY CAME TO SUN PEAKS TO FOLLOW HIS PASSION AND RUN SUN PEAKS STABLES. IN THE SEVEN YEARS SINCE, HE AND HIS BUSINESS PARTNER HAVE BUILT THE BUSINESS UP TO SOMETHING THAT IS A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THE COMMUNITY. Taylor has been working with horses since 2007, when what was a passing interest for him turned into a profession . Taylor said he finds being around horses to be very revealing, as they react to people’s energy and personalities with no judgement. One of the reasons he said he loves horses and working with horses as much as he does is because of the way people react to them, especially children. His work at the stables goes hand in hand with Taylor’s other interest—working with wood, metal and other textiles to create art. This began when a forge was installed at the stables to allow them to create their own bits for their horses’ bridles. Having the forge available also reignited an interest from Taylor’s childhood. The forge connected him back with one of his first jobs, working as a blacksmith helper at the Pickering Museum Village in Ontario. The onsite blacksmith gave him the chance to experiment and brought back the longheld interest. Taylor started working with and learning different processes and methods to create unique pieces of art. This involved creating his own stencils and brands,
doing process like wood burning and even making his own knives. The wood burning started out as experimentation and eventually led to custom orders. Taylor’s signs are dotted around Sun Peaks including outside Vertical Café in the middle of the village. He has also taken orders for signs for people’s homes throughout the community and beyond, and takes great care and joy in selecting the perfect piece of wood to suit each project. Since starting to sell his work Taylor has attended farmers’ markets and craft fairs to both sell pieces and show attendees his process of shaping metal and branding wood. From the public displays came another key part of what pushes Taylor forward with his forging, the way other people, especially children, react to it. He said he finds there is always a fascination with watching him work. He said one of his favourite things to do is show people how he makes a “beam hook,” as it can be made quickly and still looks impressive, allowing for people to watch the entire process. It’s also something that links directly with his own past, as one of the first things he made was a beam hook for a friend’s mother. That hook went into the ceiling of a house in Taylor’s hometown, and he likes to believe that even if the family has moved on the hook is still there. For those interested in forging, Taylor said his advice would be to start simple as the only real way to learn is
ROBERT TAYLOR IS USING TOOLS FOR HIS STABLE TO CREATE CUSTOM ORDERS. Photo SPIN
to do. He cites the television show “Forged in Fire” which pushed him along in his work, helping him learn and create more quickly. There is a lot coming up in the future for Taylor, both in relation to his work with the Sun Peaks Stables and with his art. He is attempting new things with wood burning and forging, and said he hopes to create some larger scale pieces that will be more immersive and able to tell a story, painting with fire. More information on Taylor and examples of his work is available on Facebook.com/ theforgesunpeaks.
SERVING ELIZABETH By
Turning THE CROWN upside down
Marcia Johnson
A Wor ld Premiere Comedy Drama
FEB 20–29 SAGEBRUSH THEATRE, KAMLOOPS
WCTLIVE.CA 14
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
Live Professional Theatre in the Heart of B.C.
L A U N N A H T THE 24
S P O O L M KA
l a v i t s e F m l i F
E R T A E H T T N U O M
A
R A P e h t t a
20+ Films!
20+
events
MARCH 5–14, 2020 KAMLOOPSFILMFEST.CA Advance KFF passes and tickets are available online and at the Paramount Theatre. Pass buyers can pick up tickets for different films, tickets to the same film or anything in-between.
KAMLOOPS FILM FESTIVAL
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
15
MONTH IN PHOTOS
SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO EDITOR@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS
RINGING IN THE NEW DECADE WITH A SHORTENED NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION DUE TO AN EPIC SNOWFALL AND RESULTING POWER OUTAGE. Photo SPIN
JAMES AND NOAH STEVENS FROM GIBSON’S, B.C., MAKE THEIR FIRST SNOWMAN OF THE YEAR IN THE VILLAGE. Photo SPIN
THE BOWL BASH RAIL JAM TOOK PLACE ON JAN. 17, FOLLOWED BY THE PREMIERE OF BOWL HOUSE’S LATEST FILM. Photo Morgan Walter
EAGER SKIERS AND RIDERS WAIT FOR THE BURFIELD CHAIRLIFT TO START TURNING ON WHAT TURNED INTO A 40 CM DAY ON NEW YEAR’S EVE. Photo SPIN
AIR NATION, THE FIRST STOP OF THE AIR NATION FREESTYLE TOUR 2020, TOOK OVER THE TERRAIN PARK WITH WITH SLOPESTYLE AND BIG AIR COMPETITIONS FROM JAN. 14 TO 16. Photo Zuzy Rocka
IT WAS A PACKED HOUSE TO DISCUSS TO THE FUTURE OF GRADES EIGHT AND NINE AT THE SD73 PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON JAN. 20. Photo SPIN
16
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
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 V17I13
ANSWERS CAN BE FOUND IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SPIN
FOR SALE NEW half-Duplex in Whitecroft : 1600SF. Fully finished upper floor, 2 bedroom/ full bathroom great room design, Fridge/ dishwasher/ stove/ W-D included, Wood stove, Unfinished basement/ garage, Vinyl siding, Laminate/ bedrooms carpet/ Bathroom vinyl, 2/5/10 year HPO warranty, 8min to Sun Peaks/ 8min to Heffley Lake, Potential revenue suite, Ready to move in asap , $399,000 + gst, 1-604-626-7100.
WINTER Weather Forecast JANUARY 24 - 31
Snow showers, very cold
FEBRUARY 1 - 8
Snow showers, very cold
FEBRUARY 9 - 17
Snow showers, turning mild
FEBRUARY 18 - 21
SODOKU ANSWERS V17I13
Do you enjoy our puzzles? Too easy? Too hard?
LET US KNOW! Send your thoughts to:
editor@sunpeaksnews.com
or phone 250 578 0276
Rain and snow, 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 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
17
BUSINESS LISTINGS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
SERVICES
Canadian made hot tubs by True North 1-250-214-1900 | 1-866-868-1888 info@discoveryhottubs.com
Your Fireplace Experts Professional Service & Repairs Fireplace Replacement Specialists 1200 Battle Street, Kamloops 250-372-3424 www.fireplacecentre.com
Property Management, Maintenance & Interior Redesign
Find out more online at sunpeaksnews.com/advertise or call 250.578.0276
1-250-214-1900 | 1-866-868-1888 info@discoveryvacationrentals.com
Residential and Commercial Security
OVER 5,000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED
(250) 374-2577
Pick up locations downtown, Sahali, Aberdeen and the North Shore Local advertising starting at $110 per month SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM/ADVERTISE
kamloopsalarm.com “PROTECTING SUN PEAKS FOR OVER 25 YEARS”
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ROBERTS CONSTRUCTION Excavating Ltd. PAUL ROBERTS
•
Excavating & Snow Clearing
•
Landscape Rock/Granite
CUSTOM BUILDER | PROJECT MANAGER NEW HOMES | ADDITIONS
•
1”—4”, 4”—12”, 5”—18”, Sand, Pitrun
•
1” Crush
Greg: 250 371 7800 • gzieb@telus.net www.ziebartexcavating.com
PHONE: 250 371 4880
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
18
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
EVENTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY
EVENTS
ONG OI NG E V E N T S SUNDAY
Beats Served Chilled * Every second week Voyageur Bistro
MONDAY
Sun Peaks Yoga, 7p.m.
TUESDAY
Bottoms Bar & Grill
Men’s Night
Quizzy Rascal Quiz / Trivia Night Masa’s Bar + Grill, 8 p.m.
Locals’ Night
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
Vinyl Night
Burfield Bistro
Wine Wednesday & Music Burfield Bistro
PABST Bingo Night
Women’s Night
Bottoms Bar & Grill
Open Mic Night
LIVE MUSIC
FRIDAY
$5 donation drop in fee Sun Peaks Yoga, 7p.m.
Karaoke
Morrisey’s Public House, 9p.m.
The best spot in the village for live music!
Karma Classes
Sun Peaks Yoga, 5:30p.m.
Burfield Bistro, 7p.m.
Burf Social House Party Burfield Bistro
SATURDAY
Yoga Workshops
DAILY
Live Music
Masa’s Club Nights
Sun Peaks Yoga, 2 to 4p.m.
Morrisey’s Public House, 9 to 11:30p.m.
Masa’s Bar + Grill, 10p.m.
Tourism Sun Peaks monthly art exhibition, in collaboration with ArtZone Sun Peaks, in the Grand Residences.
Aprés Ski Italian Snack Bar Bella Italia, 3 to 5p.m.
Daily Aprés Specials
9-11:30pm every Saturday
Cahilty Creek Taproom 3 to 5p.m.
CU R R E N T E V E N T S Watch for special events to be announced throughout the winter.
Jan
24
TRIPLE J HOT TEST 100 5 P.M. Masa’s Bar + Grill
OPEN FOR LUNCH on weekends from 11:30am
24-26
AUSTRALIA DAY WEEKEND BUSHFIRE FUNDRAISING Masa’s Bar + Grill, Mantles Restaurant & Lounge, Morrisey’s Public House
25
3RD ANNUAL HOCKEY NIGHT IN HEFFLEY CREEK 11 A.M. to 8 P.M. Heffley Creek Outdoor Rink, 595 Lister Rd.
WILF’S 25 YEAR SOBRIET Y CELEBRATION 3 to 7 P.M. Cahilty Hotel
26
PART Y IN THE PARK 11:45 A.M. Intermediate Zone of Terrain Park
31
MORRISEYSPUB
31 Feb 1
ACRYLIC POURING FLORALS WORKSHOP PRESENTED BY ARTZONE 12:30 to 3:30 P.M. Burfield Lodge
TELUS NANCY GREENE ALPINE CL ASSIC Skier Boarder Cross Course
1
&
AVAL ANCHE SKILLS TRAINING
ELLEBOARD GIRLS SNOWBOARD CAMP Terrain Park
2 2 8
ROTARY SKI POKER RUN 11 A.M. to 3P.M.
8
&
9
NEVER EVER DAYS Beginner Area/The Annex
15
&
AVAL ANCHE SKILLS TRAINING
16 SKIERS TAKE PART IN LAST YEAR’S TELUS NANCY GREENE RACE IN SUN PEAKS. Photo SPIN
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
19
SPORTS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Snowboarders make club proud at first competition JEAN STRONG
THE SUN PEAKS SNOWBOARD CLUB HAD A SUCCESSFUL
FIRST COMPETITION IN WHISTLER, B.C., FROM JAN. 9 TO 11. Coach Richard Fonger and two of the six club members travelled to the B.C. Provincial Slopestyle series event and
COLTON MCHATTEN COMPETING IN WHISTLER. Photo Richard Fonger
came home with medals. Nayte Brown took home a bronze medal in the U15 Big Air competition and Colton McHatten took a silver in the U13 Big Air. Fonger said he was proud of not only the results but of the actions of the athletes. “It was a really good experience for the kids, we have a young club so going to a big competition like that was scary. “Nayte and Colton were able to have a great showing at the Whistler event and were able to execute their training plan into a second and third place in their age categories, respectively. A great deal of emphasis can be placed on where these young athletes finish at these events. As their coach I was happier with how they executed their training plans and stuck to it. Even more impressed with their positive attitudes and and support of both each other as well as
NAYTE BROWN COMPETES IN WHISTLER. Photo Richard Fonger
their competitors.” Back at home, the club is now training for another event in SilverStar in February, where more athletes will be able to attend. “Special thanks to Christine, Doug, Barry, Jenna and
Sun Peaks Community
Health Centre
Brennan for making the trip possible and a success.” This is the first season for this iteration of the club, which was founded in 2019 after the loss of the Bluebird Day Fund’s competitive freestyle snowboard program.
CONNECT WITH US
Winter Laser Special Give the gift of a good nights sleep Snoring - 3 treatments $900.00 (reg. $1,200)
Parking & Snow Removal With the amazing snow year we’re having, crews are working hard to keep the roads cleared and as wide as possible. Please be patient and help by ensuring snow is kept within the property lines and not pushed on or across the roads or in the road rights-of way. With the increased snowbanks and narrower roads, it is very important to abide by all “No Parking” signs. This is particularly important at the Umbrella Café and when dropping children off at the elementary school.
Smoke Detectors With the recent spate of power outages, please remember to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. The batteries are there to protect you and your family during power outages. Multiple power outages put more demand on the batteries and can cause them to drain faster than they would normally.
Questions, comments and feedback can be sent to
www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca 20
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
Give the gift of skin rejuvenation Non-invasive 3D Facelift – Intraoral, skin tightening to cheek, jaw and neck. – 3 treatments $1,800.00 (reg.$2,100.00) Skin resurfacing – single $325.00 - 3 treatments, one month apart $800 (reg. $1050.00) Pain Management $150.00 per treatment Gynaecological treatments for mild to moderate urinary incontinence by consultation
@sunpeaksnews INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING IN SUN PEAKS INDEPENDENT NEWS?
DEDICATED READERSHIP & TARGETED AUDIENCE
Specials in effect until March 1st, 2020 Laser clinic days: January 30th | February 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th Call to make to make an appointment at Sun Peaks Community Health Centre 778-644-0635
To find out more about advertising with SPIN and to receive our advertising kit, contact: 250.578.0276 BRANDI@SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM
SPORTS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
Where to get out on Nordic skis this winter season JUSTIN MOORE OPPORTUNITIES TO GET OUTSIDE IN THE WINTER SEEM TO BE ENDLESS THANKS TO THE PLETHORA OF TRAILS AND LOCAL DESTINATIONS ACCESSIBLE YEAR-ROUND. AND JUST AS THE SKI LIFTS BEGIN TO TURN, IT ONLY TAKES A FEW CENTIMETRES OF POWDER TO TRANSFORM VAST NETWORKS OF SUMMER HIKING TRAILS INTO BEAUTIFULLY GROOMED NORDIC SKIING TRAILS. AND AS SURE AS SUN PEAKS GETS SNOW, THERE ARE PLENTY OF TRAILS. What began as the oldest form of skiing, a necessity for travelling great distances over frosted terrain in northern countries across the world, has become a beloved winter activity right up there with Alpine skiing and snowshoeing. While the equipment may look familiar, for those that have never clipped into a pair of cross country skis, there are a few key takeaways that separate the sport to its downhill counterpart. Unlike downhill skiing, where gravity becomes a powerful ally for momentum and thrill, navigating on cross country skis comes from the natural movement of the body. It takes a fullbody workout, from your unclipped heels to the body’s core, to propel across trails that span elevated terrain. But the extra workout is well worth the reward, as Nordic skiing trades thrill and adrenaline for leisure and connection with the wild winter landscape. Sun Peaks alone has over 37 kilometres of scenic Nordic skiing trails beginning in the heart of the village, including the lift-accessed trails atop the
Morrisey Express chairlift. From the resort, most routes head out towards McGillivray Lake, far past the hum of the chairlifts, through the quiet, snow-covered trees that surround beginner and more intermediate routes. Ungroomed backcountry ski routes also lend themselves to winter enthusiasts that desire more of a challenge. In addition to warming huts, info signs and washrooms, a few sections are accessible to on and off-leash dogs, making the Nordic skiing trails inclusive for the whole family. And it’s not just Sun Peaks where you’ll find welltraversed cross country trails. In the higher elevation hills south of Kamloops, surrounding the frigid Stake Lake, the Overlander Ski Club operates Nordic skiing and snowshoe trails. Over 60 kilometres of trails to be precise. Much like the mountain resort, Stake Lake is home to a vast network of groomed trails set to each level of difficulty, from beginner green runs surrounding the lake, to blue and black runs reaching further into the backcountry. After a day on the trails, the wood-burning fire inside the Overlander’s Lodge can be a great place to warm up, especially after an evening of night skiing. In the darker winter hours, trails surrounding the lake come to light, perfect for skiing under the stars. On most evenings, the lodge stays open until 9 p.m. For those without their own equipment, you’re in luck. Sun Peaks Resort and the Overlander Ski Club both offer rental services to get you ready and prepared for a winter excursion. Other nearby locations
that offer trails to explore include Harper Mountain, Skmana, near Chase B.C., and Sovereign Lake near Vernon, B.C. Given that Nordic skiing can be more intensive and longer-paced, it’s important to remember proper nourishment and plenty of fluids while venturing out on the trail. With recent cold weather advisories, it should take no reminder to bundle up with a ski jacket, gloves and ski goggles to protect from harsh sunlight and blowing snow.
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @sunpeaksnews
NORDIC SKIING CAN PROVIDE SOLACE IN NATURE. Photo Simon Matzinger
THE TREES AND TRAILS WELCOME SKIERS TO OBERLANDER SKI CLUB. Photo SPIN
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 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
21
SPORTS
SUNPEAKSNEWS.COM // @SUNPEAKSNEWS
FIS bans fluorinated ski wax from 2020-21 season EMILY PERRINS THE INTERNATIONAL SKI FEDERATION (FIS) HAS VOTED TO BAN THE USE OF FLUORINATED SKI WAXES IN COMPETITIVE DISCIPLINES, DUE TO ITS TOXIC IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT. “The use of fluorinated ski waxes, which have been shown to have a negative environmental and health impact, were banned for all FIS disciplines from the 2020-2021 season,” the FIS announced in a press release following its autumn meeting in Germany. Fluorocarbons are used in ski wax for their excellent water and dirt repelling properties, and to reduce friction against snow. For these reasons, it’s popularly used in alpine and Nordic ski racing waxes. RISE Research Institutes of Sweden have worked towards a phase-out of fluorocarbon wax since 2017. Lisa Skedung, a project manager with RISE, explained in an email the long term and “diffuse” health and environmental effects of fluorocarbon waxes. “A pair of well-waxed skis are coated with a very thin layer of ski wax, which through abrasion is worn off in the ski track and spread through the snow,” she wrote. This changes the chemistry of the snowmelt, and therefore the environment and food chains it then flows into. “These substances are unable to degrade in nature and humans and other mammals absorb them through air, water and food,” Skedung added. In humans, fluorocarbons have been linked to cancer, liver damage, birth defects, high blood pressure and strokes. Skedung wrote she felt very positive about the FIS ban and celebrated that it had come about sooner than expected. In its November press release the FIS also announced the formation of a specialized FIS working
22
PETER WILSON WORKS ON A PAIR OF SKIS AT MCSPORTIES. Photo SPIN
group to establish the regulations and control procedures of its ban on fluorinated waxes. It will remain up to this delegation how the ban will be enforced across snow sport disciplines and how to ensure international compliance. On a local level, Matthias Schmid, owner of McSporties in Sun Peaks, supplies the widest range of alternate waxing solutions in the community. “We’ve always tried to be environmental custodians,” Schmid said of the store, which has used nonfluorinated shop wax since opening in 1996. For ski racers, McSporties uses a non-fluorinated, all-temperature wax called Nanox. “It’s out of Italy and it’s been out for a few years now,” Schmid said. “I think that company anticipated that the fluorinated waxes were going to be banned.” McSporties is also the first in Sun Peaks to offer a permanent fluorination treatment. According to Schmid, the process— named Phantom—involves coating the ski or snowboard with a super-low viscosity,
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
two-part fluid and baking it permanently onto the ski using infrared technology. “It’s basically like tattooing the ski with a permanently fluorinated base that will not come out, so if you ski on it, it’s not going to poison the waterways,” he summed up. While alternate ski wax options like this exist, which reduce environmental pollution and health concerns from exposure to ski wax, they do not yet offer the same performance as fluorinated waxes. Until they do, the FIS will need to enforce robust regulations to manage the risk of cheating in snow sports competitions as the ban on fluorinated wax takes effect next winter.
Looking for a business or service in Sun Peaks?
Water Conservation - New Tiered Water Rates Coming in 2020 As the community of Sun Peaks deals with increasing water demand the Municipality will implement a new rate structure which will reward those who conserve water and recognize those who overuse water. A multiyear surface water upgrade is now taking place as ground aquifers no longer meet demand. The water supply will become more expensive as upgraded treatment requirements are met. While increasing supply is important, conservation efforts also need to play a role in future consumption. The theoretical amount of water a residence-type should use will be set and those who go over will be facing a supplemental charge. While most residential users will not be affected by the tiered rate system, it is recommended that steps be taken to ensure you do not face a considerable increase in costs. - Switch all plumbing and toilet fixtures to efficient models - Watch personal water usage
Check out our online business directory at: local.sunpeaksnews.com
For more information go to www.sunpeaksmunicpality.ca or email info@sunpeaksutilities.com
# M Y S U N PE A KS
SPINAWARDS best of 2020
2 0 2 0 FINALISTS
V OT I N G R U N S JA N . 24 TO F E B 9 AT W W W . S U N PE AK S A WAR D S . C OM BEST BC WINE/CRAFT BEER LIST
1. Cahilty Creek Kitchen + Taproom 2. Mantles Restaurant 3. Voyageur Bistro
BEST ON MOUNTAIN EVENT
1. Quizzy Rascals Quiz Night
BEST BUCKET LIST ACTIVITY
1. Alpine Fondue & Starlight Descent 2. Elevated Adventures Ice Fishing
2. Summer Concert Series 3. New Year’s Eve Celebrations
3. Mountain Man Dog Sled Adventures
FAVOURITE 1. Abby Lewis TERRAIN 2. Emma Christy PARK PERSONALITY 3. JT Gaynecoetche FAVOURITE LOCAL
1. captainmoephoto 2. kylejamesimage
INSTAGRAMMER 3. mymountainfamily
FAVOURITE SCANNER/ LIFTY
two were chosen by draw due to multiway tie
1. Jeremy Eunson 2. Riley Holowatiuk 3. Will McGauchie
BEST LIVE TUNES VENUE FAVOURITE BARISTA
FAVOURITE BARTENDER
FAVOURITE TUNER FAVOURITE LOCAL BUSINESS PERSON FAVOURITE LOCAL VOLUNTEER
1. Bottoms Bar & Grill 2. Morrisey’s Pub 3. Voyageur Bistro: Beats Served Chilled 1. Kaitlyn Tucker/Vertical Café 2. Konrad & Elzbieta/Bolacco Café 3. Jess McLuckie/Vertical Café 1. Brian Gillespie/Bottoms Bar & Grill 2. Celine Lussier/Voyageur Bistro 3. Marty Ciesiolka/Magic Cattleguard 1. Elliot Capper/Fall Line 2. Greg Scissons/Freefall 3. Peter Wilson/McSporties 1. Greg Scissons/Freefall 2. Matthias Schmid/McSporties 3. Rob O’Toole & Tania Sanderson/ Vertical Café
1. Sonya Nasolowski/
Rotary Club of Sun Peaks 2. Jim Alix/ Rotary Club of Sun Peaks/SPRTA 3. Ray & Sally Barker/ Sun Peaks Ski School
finalists listed in alphabetical order VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21
23
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
COMMERCIAL SPACE
#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. 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. Monthly strata fee $690.63.
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.
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.
#55 STONES THROW | $629,900 A charming mountain haven in Stone’s Throw, one of Sun Peaks’ most attractive ski-in, ski out complexes is located on the 16th fairway of the golf course, adjacent to the new Orient Chairlift. This well laid out 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo has no wasted space and offers excellent bedroom separation. The living room has dramatic vaulted ceiling with soaring windows, rock fireplace, and a large open kitchen with granite countertops and heated slate floor. This bright south facing home features two levels of living space. GST is applicable.
NEW LISTING
#331/333 CAHILTY HOTEL
| $184,500
Remarkable and convenient ski-in/ski-out location in the heart of Sun Peaks with spectacular slope side views of the face of Tod Mountain. This fully furnished one bedroom lock-off suite offers a flexible floor plan that performs well for personal use and rental. Use either the studio side with efficiency kitchen, queen sized Murphy bed and pull out sofa or the bedroom side with 2 double beds. Use both sides as a suite of rooms. Cahilty Lodge is professionally managed with a 24 hour front desk. . A short walk to all village amenities. Potential for positive rental income. GST applicable.
#24 TRAILS EDGE |
$859,000
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
#1304B GRAND RESIDENCES | $103,900 Fractional interest offering 1/4 ownership by way of registered fee simple title. Deluxe 2 bedroom, 2 bath apartment in the centre of Sun Peaks Village. Located in the ski-in, ski-out Grand Residences and managed by the Sun Peaks Grand with access to all their amenities (pools, hot tubs, valet ski storage, room service, gym, sauna). This is luxurious 2 bedroom accommodation with exceptional finishing and furnishing throughout. Great indoor and outdoor living with fantastic views of Tod Mountain.
#24 CRYSTAL FOREST |
$359,000
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.
#18 THE PEAKS | $549,000 This appealing 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhouse is located on the second fairway of the Sun Peaks Golf Course. This bright basement entry home has three levels with an open concept main floor, spacious dining area and living room, cozy corner fireplace, heated tile flooring and 3 sundecks with south facing exposure and views of the ski runs on Mt. Morrisey. The lower level of the home is comprised of a flex space for guests and more casual gathering spaces. This Golf course location with direct access to the valley trail is offered furnished with GST paid.
NEW LISTING
#217/219 CAHILTY HOTEL | $221,900 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.
#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.
#221/223 CAHILTY HOTEL | $234,900 Welcome to the Cahilty Hotel & Suites! Sit back and take in the tranquil mountain views from this charming second floor studio lock-off, complete with fully upgraded kitchen in 2014. Maximum amount of flexibility allows unlimited owner use of either room, while “locking-off” the other to capture revenues. Studio room comfortably sleeps 4, features four full sized appliances, new plush Memory foam pull out double sofa bed, new stylish accent chair in the living room, plus new Murphy bed (2018). Adjacent hotel room sleeps 4 with 2 queen beds. GST applies.
SUNPEAKSREALTY.COM 24
VOL 18 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 21