Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine February 2026 issue
Local farm boosts processing capacity with new cold storage facility, p · 11.
Still rolling: How the Roxy Theatre remains a Revelstoke staple, p · 16.
Dashing through the snow with Run Forest Run, p · 18. How to stay strong this ski season, p · 20.
Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is a free monthly publication featuring the best of Revelstoke outdoor life, food, style, visitor experiences, lifestyles, entertainment, home style and healthy living.
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“It’s such a cool little theatre and we have a town that comes out for it,”
Greg Rose says. “I want to keep that ball rolling.”
PUBLISHER
Brandi Schier info@revelstokemountaineer.com
PARTNERSHIPS SPECIALIST
Justin Moore justin@revelstokemountaineer.com
EDITOR
Hollie Ferguson editor@revelstokemountaineer.com
REPORTER
Lys Morton lys@revelstokemountaineer.com
CONTIBUTING WRITERS
Charlotte Smith
Brad Harrison
EDITORIAL DESIGN/ADVERTISING DESIGN
Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com
This
Introduction
Back in November our print issue boasted one of my favourite covers in 2025, an aerial shot of First Light Farms as the sun burned off the morning dew. I sent Chris Rubens, First Light Farms owner and operator a request to use it for our cover. He was more than happy to let us show off his drone footage skills and one of the Big Eddy’s staple farms.
“I have a story I think your readers might like, some new cold storage we’re just wrapping up,” he added in the email.
The pitch certainly caught my attention, and we have an inside look into the work Rubens and everyone connected to this building have accomplished in a whirlwind of a timeline.
If the lack of fresh powder in January has you looking for other ways to burn off some energy, might I recommend running a trail or two with the Run Forest Run club? I chatted with Luke Hall about the “coffee club with a running addiction,” and how to safely jog during the winter.
We also have the latest in our highlight series showcasing how Revelstoke exceeds expectations for a city of this size. Owner of Roxy Theatre Greg Rose gave me the details on what it takes to keep a movie theatre thriving in a mountain town.
I’m highlighting these three stories in particular because they’re directly from community pitches, ideas and requests. It’s exciting when I get to report based solely on what readers are asking about and it’s something we’re committed to doing at the Mountaineer. If you haven’t filled out our 2026 reader survey yet, I can’t encourage you enough to let us know what you want reported on this year. Check out our website for the survey.
Remember, the days are getting longer,
- Lys Morton, community journalist
COVER AND INSET PHOTO:
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
6
EVENTS
Find out what’s happening in and around Revelstoke this month in the events calendar. Don’t forget to contact Revelstoke Mountaineer to add your event in the newsletter and calendar.
9
CITY COUNCIL RECAP
Subscribe to the Mountaineer’s bi-weekly council newsletter at revelstokemountaineer.com/ newsletter to keep up-to-date on municipal news.
10
REVY KIND DAY CELEBRATES GOOD DEEDS
Revelstoke Unstuck organizer taps into community spirit with random acts of kindness Friday, Jan. 9.
11
LOCAL FARM BOOSTS
PROCESSING CAPACITY WITH NEW COLD STORAGE FACILITY
First Light Farm expands its role as a local distribution centre with a new cold storage facility.
12
JAPANESE LEGACIES EXHIBIT
SHOWCASES REVELSTOKE’S JAPANESE CANADIAN STORIES Revelstoke Museum and Archives’ latest exhibit focuses on Japanese Canadians living ‘with dignity in Revelstoke.’
16
STILL ROLLING: HOW THE ROXY THEATRE REMAINS A REVELSTOKE STAPLE
Greg Rose, Revelstoke’s Roxy Theatre caretaker, wants to make the movies the most reliable entertainment in town.
18
DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW WITH RUN FOREST RUN Winter conditions aren’t dampening plans for local ‘coffee club with a running addiction.’
20
HOW TO STAY STRONG THIS SKI SEASON
Fraser Sprigings, physiotherapist and owner of Keystone Health, shares tips on preparation, balance and recovery this ski season.
22
CONDITIONS REPORT
A new year’s tale of two snowpacks in the B.C. Interior.
24
CROWDS TURN UP FOR GRIZZLIES NEW YEAR’S EVE TRADITION
The Revelstoke Forum was jampacked for the Grizzlies game against the Kamloops Storm.
25
THE GRIZZLIES CORNER
Recaps and updates on all things Revelstoke hockey.
26
PUZZLES
Check your answers for last month’s puzzles and try your hand at February's crossword and sudoku.
FEBRUARY 2026 CALENDAR
FEBRUARY EVENTS
MONDAYS, FEB. 2, 9 AND 23
SOUP AND A SMILE
United Church, 314 MacKenzie Ave., 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Soup and a Smile invites you to enjoy a bowl of homemade soup, a choice of dessert, a drink and bun. Come with friends or sit with someone new at this community lunch event hosted every Monday. Entry by donation, $5 recommended, all welcome to attend.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4, 11, 18 AND 25
DROP-IN ART NIGHT
Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Drop by the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre Kitchen Studio with whatever art project you’re working on and enjoy a relaxing environment of other creatives. Free to attend, all ages welcome, please bring your own supplies.
FRIDAY, FEB. 6
FILM FRIDAY - UNION STREET
Revelstoke Museum & Archives, 315 First St. West, 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Settle in and learn a bit more about B.C.’s history, culture and community at the Revelstoke Museum & Archives’ Film Friday. This week, catch Union Street and explore the history of Hogan's Alley in Vancouver, the heart of a thriving Black Canadian community.
FRIDAY, FEB. 6
REVELSTOKE GRIZZLIES
VS. 100 MILE HOUSE
Revelstoke Forum, 1100 Vernon Ave., 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Come cheer on your Revelstoke Grizzlies as they take on the 100 Mile House Wranglers. Give the Grizzlies that home ice advantage and enjoy a family-friendly event. Drinks and concession stands will be available. Be sure to also come by the Forum and cheer on the Grizzlies Saturday, Feb. 14, Tuesday, Feb. 17, Friday, Feb. 20, Friday, Feb. 27 and Saturday, Feb. 28.
SATURDAY, FEB. 7 AND 21
REVELSTOKE LOCAL FOOD INITIATIVE WINTER MARKET
Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Ave., 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Come enjoy a range of vendors, from fresh produce to meat, eggs, honey, cider, wine, coffee, baked treats and art items from our talented local artists. Bring cash and your reusable bags to stock up with goodies.
SATURDAY, FEB. 7
KING & QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAIN
Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Rd., 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. It’s time to show off your skills on the slopes and crown the 2026 King and Queen of the Mountain. Skiers and Snowboarders will have a chance at the resort’s hand built jumps and features on the SWF run, just under the Stoke Chair. Register at revelstokemountainresort. com.
SUNDAY, FEB. 8
FINAL EXHIBIT DAY
Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. It’s your last day to check out Carol Schlosar, Rachel Prins, Hunter Haig and Jah-Cko at the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre before the gallery starts preparing for the next exhibit.
SUNDAY, FEB. 8
ARTIST TALK WITH RACHEL PRINS
Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Learn all about Rachel Prins’ creative process, where she’s hunting for inspiration and the techniques she’s using at this Artist Talk. Free to attend, all ages welcome.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11
BROWN BAG HISTORY - REVELSTOKE’S SCANDINAVIAN COMMUNITY
Revelstoke Museum & Archives, 315 First St. West, 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Nordic skiing had to be started up by someone in Revelstoke. Bring your lunch to the Revelstoke Museum & Archives for this week’s Brown Bag History event and hear about Revelstoke’s Scandinavian community over the years. Talks held on the second floor, tickets are $10.
FRIDAY, FEB. 13
KODIAK WOMEN’S ALLSTAR HOCKEY GAME
Revelstoke Forum, 1100 Vernon Ave., 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Come cheer on the Kodiak Women’s hockey team as they show off their skills in the all-star game. This family-friendly event
Skiers and snowboarders ages five to 12 will show off their skills at the Sunday, Feb. 22 Grom Con. Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
is sure to showcase powerful plays, stick skills and a roaring good time. Tickets available at Valhalla Pure Outfitters and Forage & Fill.
Ready to celebrate your love amongst the mountains? Register for a spot at Revelstoke Mountain Resort’s Valentines Day Wedding celebration. A marriage commissioner will be on site at the top of Revelation Gondola. Bring your wedding license and two witnesses and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine each and a cupcake to cut. Non-skiing couples or guests need to purchase a sightseeing ticket. Skiing couples and guests will need to purchase a lift ticket.
SUNDAY, FEB. 15
DUFFLEBAG THEATRE’S PETER PAN
Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
No better way to celebrate Family Day than with this interactive version of J.M. Barrie’s beloved classic, Peter Pan. All ages are welcome to enjoy the tales from Neverland, tickets available at artsrevelstoke.com.
All ages are welcome to enjoy an evening of free fireworks at the base of Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Check out live performances, some s’mores and more in the resort village before the fireworks blast off at 8 p.m.
Revelstoke author Hilary Thorpe shares her journey with post-partum depression and pregnancy loss, talks how writing can help with processing grief and what it’s like publishing such personal stories in an anthology. Free to attend, recommended for adult audiences.
FRIDAY, FEB. 20
RAIL JAM
Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950
Camozzi Rd., 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Critical Parts hosts the Rail Jam at the base of Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Experienced park riders 19 years and older show off their tricks and skills in front of audiences in the village. Enjoy live music and high energy competition. Registration at Guest Services prior to the event.
Get your boot scooting boogy in with Fire in the Hole stringband and enjoy an evening of country dancing. No experience, no partner required. All ages welcome, tickets available at Valhalla Pure.
SUNDAY, FEB. 22
GROM CON VOL. 2
Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950
Camozzi Rd., 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Skiers and snowboarders ages five to 12 are invited to show off their skills in the Gnome Zone and walk away with some sweet prizes and bragging rights. Hosted by the Revelstoke Snowboard Club, the competition includes
a free BBQ for competitors and their guardians. The fee to compete is $20 and helmets are mandatory, contact info@ revelstokesnowboardclub.com to register.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25
BROWN BAG HISTORYHUNTING AND TRAPPING IN THE BIG BEND
Revelstoke Museum & Archives, 315 First St. West, 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Bring your lunch to the Revelstoke Museum & Archives for this week’s Brown Bag History event and learn all about the history of hunting and trapping in and along the Big Bend. Talks held on the second floor, tickets are $10.
SATURDAY, FEB. 28
WHERE HAVE ALL THE BUFFALO GONE?
Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Covering generations of Métis history, Where Have All the Buffalo Gone? is a celebration of stories, fiddle music, jigging and the relationship between buffalo and Métis people in Canada. All ages are welcome, tickets available at artsrevelstoke.com.
Swing by the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre for an evening of drop-in art every Wednesday.
Photo provided by Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre
Check out Where Have All the Buffalo Gone? at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre.
Photo by Javier Sotres Photography
CITY COUNCIL RECAP
SUBSCRIBE TO THE MOUNTAINEER’S BI-WEEKLY COUNCIL NEWSLETTER AT REVELSTOKEMOUNTAINEER.COM/NEWSLETTER TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE ON MUNICIPAL NEWS.
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Community
Housing Society seeks BC Hydro solutions
Taha Attiah, general manager for Revelstoke Community Housing Society (RCHS) presented plans and updates for 2026 as the non-profit gears up for some major projects.
Non-local workforce for the Revelstoke Dam unit six installation is expected to begin moving to town March 2027, and BC Hydro is working with RCHS to find housing strategies for the expected 130 workers.
In an October open house, BC Hydro stated it wanted to support RCHS and the City of Revelstoke in developing new housing units that could bolster BC Hydro staff before becoming a part of Revelstoke’s housing stock.
Through a request for proposals on behalf of BC Hydro, RCHS connected with local building companies to see what potential housing solutions could be provided. Twelve proposals were submitted and RCHS was hopeful BC Hydro’s housing needs could be met by Revelstoke’s private market.
“Unfortunately, we weren’t able to find a solution within the private market that would meet those needs,” Attiah said, later explaining that BC Hydro
requires specific housing criteria be met. “We continue to work with BC Hydro to find a solution.”
Plans for Oscar Lands development takes shape
BC Hydro’s future housing needs could be met by a project in Revelstoke’s Southside. In a presentation updating council on the Oscar Lands development project Greg Stewart, Ground Cubed landscape architect and urban designer for the Oscar Lands project noted that BC Hydro usage for some of the units was on designer minds.
“Part of the drive of updating this was to determine if some buildings could be cited here,” he said, explaining that roughly 140 units on the Oscar Lands could be available for BC Hydro’s temporary use.
Coun. Tim Palmer cautioned BC Hydro’s need for staff housing trumping work that’s already gone into planning for the Oscar Lands development.
“We’ve done a lot of great work. We should
not be thinking about doing something that’s going to destroy good planning processes as we move ahead,” he said.
After reviewing the original 2024 Oscar Lands Master Plan and various engagement opportunities in 2025, 345 units are still planned for the site that pushes into Powerhouse Road. The update from Ground Cubed did little to change the original goals and outlines from the master plan, Stewart explained. Any actual changes to the master plan would require council approval due to the city’s ownership of the property.
Workshop feedback focused on the project acting as a model for future developments throughout Revelstoke. From creating passive recreation areas to focusing housing closer to streets and providing parking in the back, goals for the Oscar Lands development are to create a community feel within the development.
Pushing development closer to the west side of the block and allowing the majority of trees on the property to remain as a sort of buffer between Oscar Lands and the surrounding neighbourhoods is expected to help mitigate the impact of increased density.
“If we could do all the development on the upper bench, that would preserve the lower bench for natural amenities,” Stewart explained.
Downie Street housing project headed for BC Housing approval
The Downie Street housing project is on track for final approval from BC Housing, with RCHS expecting the green light in Spring 2026 and construction expected to follow by June. Currently, RCHS is aiming for a September 2028 occupancy for the first building, but is working to revise the schedule based on updated information.
Neighbours to the project, potential tenants and others interested in the project can sign up for updates from RCHS at revelstokecommunityhousing.com. The official tenant waitlist is expected to launch closer to the completion of the Downie Street housing project so the most current tenants are prioritized.
Revelstoke city council. Photo by Keri Knapp/Keri Knapp Photography
Traffic bylaws back for reading following amendments
An amended version of the new Traffic and Highways bylaw went up for send and third reading following discussion at the Tuesday, Dec. 9 general council meeting.
Among other discussions, council asked at the Dec. 9 meeting if skateboard regulations could be further clarified and staff made adjustments to clarify skateboards are allowed on city streets, Kenny Gipps, manager of development services said.
Concerns around golf carts and other battery assisted vehicles were brought up again by Coun. Austin Luciow, who noted the future opening of Cabot Golf at Revelstoke Mountain Resort could see an increase of golf carts on Camozzi Road.
“There are spaces where golf carts are going to be crossing the roadways and that won’t necessarily stop people from using the roadway to get back to their cars in the parking lot,” Luciow said, asking Gipps what steps bylaw would take to enforce current regulations. Gipps noted that use of prohibited vehicles on city roads falls under RCMP regulations.
Staff were racing the deadline of a BC Air Access Program application to get funding for an updated Revelstoke Airport masterplan.
The Air Access program provides infrastructure funding up to $2 million per year for eligible projects, but a master plan is required to apply for any Air Access funding.
“Without the master plan, we don’t know exactly what needs to be fixed other than a somewhat dated report that we had done back in 2022,” Evan Parliament, chief administrative officer said.
The city applied for the funding on behalf of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, which currently owns the Revelstoke airport even as the city works on future purchase.
A second stream of funding from the BC Air Access Program helps municipalities with developing a master plan, with up to 70 per cent of the cost capped at $35,000 covered by the grant.
If the city isn’t approved for the master plan funding stream, costs for the airport master plan could be covered by Economic Opportunity Funds (EOF), but Parliament
said staff are trying to access as much money as possible for the airport project.
“If we’re successful in getting this, it’s more funds available for EOF projects,” he said.
Council voted unanimously to approve staff applying for the BC Air Access masterplan funding.
Staff seek funding for Revelstoke airport master plan
Work on the Downie Street housing project could break ground by June, 2026.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
BC Hydro is still looking for unit six construction worker housing for next year.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
REVY KIND DAY CELEBRATES GOOD DEEDS
REVELSTOKE UNSTUCK ORGANIZER
TAPS INTO COMMUNITY SPIRIT WITH RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS FRIDAY, JAN. 9.
By Lys Morton
An annual tradition for one local resident received a bigger push and its own swag this year to help boost spirits after the holiday rush. Revy Kind Day, hosted Friday, Jan. 9 has long been a celebration for Sandra Gregory who has used the day to intentionally do as many small acts of kindness as possible.
With the help of local graphics designer Alyson Isherwood and select businesses that hosted Kindness Baskets, Gregory is aiming for Jan. 9 to be an annual celebration for everyone.
“Revy Kind is all of us, whether you’ve been here 50 years or you’ve just moved here. That intent is to be kind as the spirit of the community,” Gregory said.
While there is no official list of deeds to do or registration required, participants were encouraged to stop by the Revelstoke Senior Centre, Mountain Goodness Natural Food and Royal LePage Revelstoke office and collect a sticker or card to help promote the day. Designed by Isherwood, the cheerful keepsake can be passed along with good deeds.
“It can be as simple as holding a door open for someone or it can be doing a grocery run for someone stuck at home. You don’t have to do these big things and spend lots of money, it’s what your capacity is,” Gregory said.
In a post following Revy Kind Day, Gregory thanked everyone who participated one way or another.
“No fanfare, no sign-ups, just people doing what they could, in their own way,” Gregory wrote.
Revelstoke Unstuck
Gregory is the creator of Revelstoke Unstuck, a group that started as a way to connect seniors and disabled residents with folks who could shovel sidewalks after major snowfalls. Since then the group has expanded to include offers to hang holiday lights, requests for kids looking to be read to from seniors in town and the annual Surprise Valentine’s Day project. No matter the initiative, all of it has been rooted in helping the community as much as possible.
“Valentine’s, that’s been a way to celebrate folks who don’t always get celebrated. But Revy Kind Day is just trying to spread as much joy as possible in the colder months,” Gregory said.
While combatting the seasonal mental health drop isn’t the original drive behind the day, she does see it as part of the call to action.
“The holidays are not always a good time for everyone, and the start of the year can be hard for folks. So, if we can just intentionally set out to do these little deeds and maybe help folks through January, that’s part of the goal,” Gregory said.
The inaugural Revy Kind Day also marks a more behind-the-scenes shift for Revelstoke Unstuck and Gregory’s work in the community. While she doesn’t see the need for snow shoveling disappearing anytime soon, the group continues to evolve to match the needs of community members with that kindness she sees as integral to Revelstoke.
“We’re not willing to compromise on that, and that’s really special to me,” she said. “That’s what I want to keep fostering.”
Revy Kind Day baskets with stickers designed by Alyson Isherwood. Photo provided by Sandra Gregory/Revelstoke Unstuck
LOCAL FARM BOOSTS PROCESSING CAPACITY WITH NEW COLD STORAGE FACILITY
FIRST LIGHT FARM IS EXPANDING ITS ROLE AS A LOCAL DISTRIBUTION CENTRE WITH A NEW COLD STORAGE FACILITY THAT CAN STORE CROPS PURCHASED FROM AROUND THE REGION.
By Lys Morton
A new cold storage facility in the Big Eddy is bolstering Revelstoke's food security and building on a unique business opportunity for First Light Farm.
Affectionately called The Vegetable Bunker by staff, the roughly 230 square metre building houses four walk-in fridges, processing resources and new staff facilities for the team. With a capacity for roughly 60,000 pounds of food, the fridges allow Chris Rubens and Jesse Johnston-Hill’s team to store hardy crops such as carrots and radishes for longer periods of time.
“We're not going to fill it with 60,000 pounds we’ve grown right now. That's hopefully years down the road, but we have space for us to grow into,” Johnston-Hill said.
First Light Farm is now able to increase bulk purchases from other farmers in the region, securing a wider range of produce for Revelstoke and creating connections throughout the local farming community. This capacity boost expands First Light’s ability to act as a distribution centre in town and provide produce for sale at Mountain Goodness Natural Foods, Southside Market and Le Marche Gourmet, alongside the weekly Local Food Initiative (LFI) markets. Roughly a dozen restaurants in town partner with First Light Farm
for ingredient needs and some regional heliskiing operations are joining in on the bounty.
“We’re a town with passes on either side of us. When that highway closes, and if those trucks for the grocery stores can’t get through, you really start to see that impact quick,” Johnston-Hill said.
The idea shifted from an auxiliary building with fridge capabilities to the concrete walled building designed to retain as much temperature and moisture within the facility as possible, creating stable storage with less energy wasted.
“It’s also going to be a game changer in the summer,” Johnston-Hill noted, explaining that extreme heat events and heavy wildfire smoke throughout the summer won’t hinder farmwork as much as in the past, with production now able to retreat within the Vegetable Bunker.
One of the first opportunities to bring produce at wholesale was First Light Farm purchasing 3,200 pounds of apples from Rupee's Organic Orchard out of Cawston, storing the crates of Cripps Pink and other variants.
“There’s farms from all over the region who want to come to our market, but maybe the logistics don’t line up all the time. We can now purchase directly from them and bring that to Revelstoke,” Rubens said.
A community barn raising
A building of this magnitude doesn’t just grow out of the ground, and both JohnstonHill and Rubens are quick to point out the local contracting work and general community support that’s seen the cold storage facility from the planning stage to power on.
The project was sparked in late 2023 when Isabel Kessi, Revelstoke LFI market manager approached Johnston-Hill and Rubens about a food storage, distribution and retail program from the Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C.
“We're really bad at saying no,” Rubens said, explaining LFI met with First Light Farm and other local farmers to discuss future food security in Revelstoke. While Johnston-Hill and Rubens weren’t immediately convinced their team had the capacity for a larger project, the idea wouldn’t die.
“So, we dove into what we could imagine for food storage and distribution in Revelstoke, and kind of came up with this idea,” Rubens said.
Once the idea started to take shape, First Light Farm reached out to Jordan Cropper, Raven Contracting owner and operator to see if he would jump on as general contractor.
“It was always pretty obvious to me that we needed these guys’ expertise,” Rubens said, explaining Cropper’s knowledge on various building codes and regulations was key in keeping the project going as the storage shifted more into an industrial building classification.
Scratching out a rough estimate and budget of $600,000, the team applied for the grant that covers 75 per cent of the proposed budget. By the end of March 2024 they got the approval with conditions that building permits would be sorted by September.
“We had to design it, engineer it, get septic mapped, surveys, everything ready to go in three months, which is a new record for us,” Cropper said. With a bit of finessing right until the bitter end, contractors were able to break ground in June 2025. Gambling that the cold storage would be operational in time, First Light Farm planted an additional 9,000 pounds of carrots to trial run farming capacity and the new storage capacity.
In the final days of the season, First Light reached out to the local community to see who could help harvest the abundance of carrots. Ten additional labourers joined in to get the carrots picked, washed, prepared and stored in the newly operational coolers.
“The coolers were basically being turned on while they were picking them,” Cropper said.
That push from contractors, staff and local help to get the Vegetable Bunker running and stocked showcases the deep community support First Light Farm has always known, Johnston-Hill said. While selling the products of a farm might be the hardest part, Revelstoke makes it an easier goal than most other cities.
“We have a really strong local food culture here. I want to pay homage to the Local Food Initiative for fostering that,” she said.
First Light Farm wishes to thank Raven Contracting, Martin Hamel at Revelstoke Drafting, Robyn Thomas at WSA Engineering, Tracey Peet at Elite, Advantage Excavation, Last Spike Construction, TJ's Roofing, Revelstoke Electric, Axiom Mechanical, Ullr Mechanical, Home Comfort, AnCrete, Salmon Arm Window and Door, Element Gutters, Elite Septic, Revive Renovation and the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food for supporting the building of the cold storage facility.
First Light Farm owner and operator Jesse Johnston-Hill, Raven Contracting owner Jordan Cropper and First Light Farm owner and operator Chris Rubens stand outside the new cold storage facility. Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
JAPANESE LEGACIES EXHIBIT SHOWCASES REVELSTOKE’S JAPANESE CANADIAN STORIES
REVELSTOKE MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES’ LATEST EXHIBIT FOCUSES ON JAPANESE CANADIANS LIVING ‘WITH DIGNITY IN REVELSTOKE.’
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Museum and Archives is highlighting the history of Japanese Canadians in Revelstoke and increasing collection accessibility with the launch of its latest online exhibit, Japanese Legacies
Spanning over 100 years of history, the exhibit is the cumulation of project manager Harumi Sakiyama’s hours of work piecing together the various Japanese Canadian stories rooted in Revelstoke.
The online exhibit will help the museum showcase more of its collection without having to navigate the limited space the historic brick-andmorter building provides.
“We’ll continue to gather material on this topic, so this feels the best way to showcase that material,” Cathy English, lead curator told Revelstoke Mountaineer.
The online exhibit is also part of the museum’s work to make its collections as accessible as possible. Audio tours, accessible language guides, sensory supports and a growing list of online exhibits are all accessibility strategies the museum has been implementing over the years.
Nearly 60 attendees joined in person and via Zoom for the Friday, Jan. 16 launch celebration for Japanese Legacies, with English sharing highlights from the exhibit and stories in the collection. Many of the attendees had connections with the families showcased and shared stories of their own and helped identify some of the photos.
“So many people were talking about their neighbour who lived down the road during the war. It’s connecting people in a way that goes beyond just the stories of Japanese Canadians and the forced relocation,” Laura VanZant, assistant curator told Revelstoke Mountaineer.
Japanese Canadians in Revelstoke
Japanese Legacies was inspired after the launch of Reclaimed Voices, the museum’s exhibit that highlighted narratives often overlooked in Revelstoke’s history. While working on the Japanese Canadian part of the exhibit, museum staff found more material than could be included in Reclaimed Voices
“We were getting so much new material and we really felt that it was a big story to tell, one that really was neglected for a long time,” English said.
With new family records and in-person interviews, Revelstoke Museum and Archives' collection on Japanese Canadian history has grown by leaps and bounds. The museum’s collection of photos alone has expanded from a couple dozen three years ago to hundreds, with some of the photos featured in Japanese Legacies
With funding from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society, the museum focused on the families that called Revelstoke home over the decades, even if early city bylaws kept Japanese Canadians from settling in city limits, pushing families to the Big Eddy and what’s now known as Southside.
Nearly 60 guests attended in person and online for the official launch of JapaneseLegacies, Revelstoke Museum and Archives' latest exhibit.
Photo by Laura VanZant/Revelstoke Museum and Archives
“Families that lived outside [Revelstoke] could engage in farming and selling strawberries, stuff like that,” English explained. “But they couldn’t operate a business unless they owned property in the city and could get a business license."
Between city bylaw restrictions, the enacting of the War Measures Act and even organizations such at the Revelstoke Legion campaigning against Japanese Canadians integrating into Revelstoke, English said the theme for Japanese Canadian families is resiliency.
This theme is captured in the introduction of the exhibit, which aims to “pay tribute to the Japanese Canadian pioneers who overcame hardships and lived their lives with dignity in Revelstoke.”
Japanese Canadian history will continue to be made in Revelstoke, English said, with many families still settled in the city and new generations calling it home.
“There was still a lot of kindness,” she said when talking about the various oral histories shared for the exhibit. “There were very few mentions of feeling unwelcomed. It definitely happened, but there were moments of wanting them to know they were welcome here.”
TOURISM TALKS
THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF EVENTS IN REVELSTOKE
When we talk about the value of events in Revelstoke, we’re not just talking about fun weekends or packed venues We’re talking about local dollars circulating, new customers for small businesses, tourism growth in the shoulder season, and real return on investment for community funding
Case Study 1: Big Eddy Winter Market
The Big Eddy Winter Market is a community-driven artisan market that supports local and regional makers, brings people together in the shoulder season, and keeps spending local
57 local businesses supported 1,962 attendees
Estimated over $80k in measured one-day economic activity
Based on vendor responses, we estimate that for every $1 invested in bringing this event to life, approximately $6 77 was generated in economic value within our community
Case Study 2: Full Support Mountain Sledder Film Festival
The Full Support Mountain Sledder Film Festival was a first-of-its-kind snowmobiling cultural event and a very different economic model than a community market This event focused on tourism attraction, drawing high-value visitors to Revelstoke in early winter.
230 total attendees (180 out-of-town snowmobile visitors)
540 nights booked through local accommodators
$16k in trail pass revenue for the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club
Estimated $186k in direct visitor spending
Estimated $250k in total economic impact
Tourism Revelstoke’s event support isn’t just about attendance numbers or marketing reach. It’s about:
Supporting a stronger year round economy by attracting visitors in quieter seasons
Celebrating and enhancing our vibrant community
Supporting local businesses and non-profits
Across these two event, Tourism Revelstoke invested a combined $6,500, helping to generate an estimated $325,000+ in economic impact Throughout 2025, Tourism Revelstoke provided over $225k to other organizations to support events within our community
See our event calendar!
A November 1942 photo of Seiji (Stan) Imada with his father Morio Imada at their home in Big Eddy. Photo provided by Revelstoke Museum and Archives
Why Tourism Revelstoke Invests in Events
JapaneseLegacies, Revelstoke Museum and Archives’ latest exhibit features photos and stories from generations of Japanese Canadians who have called Revelstoke home.
Photo provided by Revelstoke Museum and Archives
“It’s such a cool little theatre and we have a town that comes out for it,” Greg
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
STILL ROLLING: HOW THE ROXY THEATRE REMAINS A REVELSTOKE STAPLE
GREG ROSE, REVELSTOKE’S ROXY THEATRE CARETAKER, WANTS TO MAKE THE MOVIES THE MOST RELIABLE ENTERTAINMENT IN TOWN.
By Lys Morton
Editor’s Note: Our team has heard from various community members all the ways Revelstoke punches above its weight class. From non-profits and businesses to events, there are examples everywhere. We’re putting a spotlight on these humble brags and giving them a chance to highlight others who are making big things happen in a small town.
Nestled on Mackenzie Avenue, just down from the Grizzly Plaza is Revelstoke’s very own Roxy Theatre. Boasting a laser-projection ready screen, new sound system and everything from summer blockbusters to indie skiing films, The Roxy is a beacon of indoor entertainment in a town often heralded for outdoor recreation.
Operating for nearly 70 years with a moniker that pays homage to the Roxy Theatre in New York City, Revelstoke’s movie theatre first opened in its current location in 1938 under the name the Avolie. Since then, a range of caretakers have steered the theatre through a world war, international financial crises and a pandemic that brought many movie theatres to their knees.
It’s in that latest chapter that Greg Rose, The Roxy’s current caretaker stepped in. Taking on the role of owner and operator in November 2020, Rose was buzzing with ideas to keep the cinema open and accessible for Revelstoke.
“It’s such a cool little theatre and we have a town that comes out for it,” Rose told Revelstoke Mountaineer. “I want to keep that ball rolling.”
He had less than a week under his belt as the new operator before Covid-19 restrictions shuttered The Roxy for months.
“A bit of a false start would be putting it mildly,” Rose said.
Not willing to twiddle his thumbs while he waited for the theatre to open back up, Rose used the time to get some long overdue projects completed.
“This is a business that’s open every day. There’s not always a ton of opportunity to get things done,” he said. While The Roxy served up popcorn, candy and even ran a Can for Candy food drive during lockdown, Rose was finding lightbulb replacements, familiarizing himself with the projector and updating things wherever he could while keeping the beloved retro feel of the theatre in tact.
One of those updates was The Roxy’s website and social media to keep connected with the general public.
“There’s a lot of competition for our entertainment,” Rose said, explaining that making movie listings, times, prices and online ticket purchasing as accessible as possible to the community helps build trust.
From knowing what’s playing when to the lights dimming right on time, Rose wants The Roxy to be one of the most dependable sources of entertainment in Revelstoke.
“If you’re not staying up with things, that gives people reason to take other opportunities to entertain themselves. So, that’s in my DNA to just be open and available and on time.”
Old roots, new features
Marrying new theatre technology with the infrastructure in The Roxy is an art, and Rose has connected with smaller, independent theatres throughout Canada to share supply resources,
Replacing the lightbulbs for
Rose says. “I want to keep that ball rolling.”
the Roxy’s signage is just one of the various projects that’s kept Greg Rose busy since he took over the theatre. Photo provided by Roxy Theatre Revelstoke/Facebook
maintenance tricks and stories of all the quirks found in theatres that have long stood for decades.
“You’d never be able to build a theatre like this with current code,” Rose said, highlighting the steep pitch The Roxy boasts, providing clear views for each row of seats even in the small theatre space. Ever since taking on the operator position, he’s toured other smaller theatres, oftentimes struck by the flat floor of seating shoehorned into old churches and community halls.
“We really are blessed with this beautiful, old building,” Rose said.
One of the more recent updates Rose installed to keep providing the best experience for moviegoers is a $15,000 movie screen, installed in November 2024. The new screen increased the projection space by nearly 32 per cent and is designed to support laser projection, a technology that offers deeper colour ranges and sharper images.
“When it comes time to update our projector, move into that technology, the screen is ready and we’re not having that cost as well,” Rose said.
While a new projector isn’t in the immediate future, Rose is keeping his finger on Revelstoke’s moviegoing pulse.
“There are people who are so deeply passionate about this theatre, about movies, about what we offer. I want to always be honouring that passion.”
He’s teaching his staff that same respect and passion. Boasting a crew largely made up of local teenagers, oftentimes providing them their first ever job, Rose said he’s more than comfortable letting the team run the show some nights.
“It’s a privilege, seeing them all come up. This place would not run without all of the kids that work here,” he said.
Rose is aware that theatre-going takes commitment. Between time, costs and even coordinating childcare, visiting The Roxy might not be an easy spur-of-themoment activity for some. But keeping The Roxy thriving in Revelstoke doesn’t take too much from residents and visitors, Rose explained.
“If everyone in town comes out to two or three movies a year, the business is fine,” he said. With a goal of catering movie experiences for all ages, Rose wants everyone to feel like The Roxy belongs to them.
Local tech support
Keeping the technology of The Roxy running doesn’t always mean reaching outside of town for tech resources, Rose pointed out. Even in a town as small as Revelstoke, top-of-the-line support is just around the corner at RevyTech.
“We’re a town of 8,000, and you can go down there and get a motherboard soldered? Any other small town you’d have to leave for that,” Rose said.
Keegan’s passion for providing support in Revelstoke highlights the overall community feel of keeping things local.
“We're really blessed to have a lot of passionate business owners here that take it seriously,” Rose said of Keegan and others. “A lot of them are competing with the big cities to keep business here.”
Revelstoke’s theatre has been known as the Roxy since 1959.
Photo provided by Roxy Theatre Revelstoke/Facebook
DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW WITH RUN FOREST RUN
WINTER CONDITIONS AREN’T DAMPENING PLANS FOR LOCAL ‘COFFEE CLUB WITH A RUNNING ADDICTION.’
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke’s Run Forest Run club isn’t letting colder temperatures and darker days hinder weekly runs, even if winter running requires a couple of adjustments to gear, routes and warm-ups.
Founded in April 2025 by Maegan Downey, the club heads out for the trails every Thursday morning, rotating meeting spots throughout town. From skirting the Big Eddy neighbourhood to scaling a chunk of Mount Revelstoke, the club aims for a five kilometre loop each time before heading to a coffee shop for a snack and some socializing.
“Running is really just the modality for how we are meeting up,” Luke Hall, Run Forest Run club leader told Revelstoke Mountaineer, explaining speed is set by each runner’s individual pace and the club is focused on connecting runners new and old together.
“We’re a coffee club with a running addiction,” he said.
The club’s focus on socializing helps bring newer runners out onto the trails, he added, along with Run Forest Run’s cafe stop instead of pub hopping. While there’s many clubs and events that highlight Revelstoke’s brewery and distillery scene, some members of the running club appreciate a social gathering not centered around drinking.
“I love going to the pub with mates, but it’s nice to have a space away from that side of things,” Hall said.
Members of the group are varied in experience levels, ranging from newbies to marathon runners and folks are urged to, “go at your own pace.”
“We get people who are doing really cool things with their running and people that are just keen to have a chat while running and go for a coffee,” Hall said.
There’s always a new face to connect with Hall said, making Run Forest Run an ideal way to make new friends.
Run Forest Run’s tips for winter
While the club has yet to run into weather that’s entirely hindered plans, preparing with layers, lighting and stretching can keep runners comfortable and safe during winter.
Similar to other cold weather recreational activities, wearing a base layer to pull sweat away from your skin, a middle layer to keep body heat locked in and an outer layer to protect from the elements can keep runners comfortable in freezing temperatures.
Hall also recommends runners bring a headlamp or other source of light to help keep an eye on path conditions. From concrete slick with ice to packeddown snow, trails aren’t always clear of obstacles, and a headlamp can be just as important as good shoes.
“Especially at those darker times of the day, keeping an eye out for any inconsistencies in the path is really important, and will help keep you safe,” Hall explained.
Keeping a hat and a set of gloves that can be easily removed on hand also goes a long way to helping regulate temperatures as you warm up doing the run.
No matter your skill level, Hall advised runners to reassess their capacity in the winter and especially on snow. It might be helpful to reduce speed and distances as snow does not provide an easy spring point.
“Your muscles have to work a lot harder to be able to run at the same pace as you would just on a flat pavement,” Hall said.
If conditions deteriorate too much, there’s no shame in taking your running indoors, he added.
“Having a treadmill accessible, whether at home or at the gym is just a really nice way to stay on top of your running training.”
For those eager to take their running outdoors, the Run Forest Run club meets Thursdays at a new location each week. Runners start at 7:15 a.m. with a quick warm-up, and members are encouraged to show up early. Locations and trail length can be found on the Run Forest Run Instagram page @runforestrevy or contact Hall at luke@lukehallstrength.com.
Revelstoke’s Run Forest Run club isn’t letting a little snow and slush keep them from morning runs and socializing.
Photo provided by Run Forest Run
ZONEDFORSHORTTERMRENTAL
HOW TO STAY STRONG THIS SKI SEASON
FRASER SPRIGINGS, PHYSIOTHERAPIST AND OWNER OF KEYSTONE HEALTH, SHARES TIPS ON PREPARATION, BALANCE AND RECOVERY THIS SKI SEASON.
By Charlotte Smith
Editor's Note: This article was originally shared in a previous version of the Revelstoke Mountaineer. This republished version is reflective of reader questions.
Every winter, thousands chasing the adrenaline high flock to Revelstoke. Whether you’re conquering the slopes or navigating backcountry terrain, the thrill of winter sports comes with the risk of injury.
Fraser Sprigings, physiotherapist and owner of Keystone Health, knows this all too well. Through his extensive experience, including supporting orthopedic surgeons specializing in knee injuries in Banff, Alta. and collaborating with the Canadian Sports Institute, he has seen how high-intensity winter sports impact our physical and mental health.
Anticipation and excitement can lead to recklessness and injury early in the season, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain, he explained.
“In addition, with prolonged riding and mileage, muscle imbalances can start to develop, and some notorious muscles get tight,” Sprigings said.
Early Preparation
Sprigings’ biggest advice is to consider possible deficits in your body or ability before getting over your head physically or mentally.
“It’s challenging because people often only become aware of an issue when they’re in that intense moment
of injury,” he explained. “Then they don’t have the time or mental capacity to deal with it.”
He stressed the importance of incorporating stretching, mobility, strength and conditioning work before becoming too tight, weak or unbalanced. Establishing a routine early means that when it’s crunch time and you’re getting lots of vertical feet, your body is equipped.
“Having confidence that the body and mind are sound before you go in, and the knowledge that you can maintain it is key,” Sprigings said. “It decreases anxiety or apprehension about living life to your full potential.”
Maintaining consistency can be challenging, and he suggested vocalizing your personal goals, aspirations and limits for the season to others in order to stay accountable.
A
balanced approach
Having a strong physical base is just one part of the equation. A significant pillar of Keystone Health’s work is addressing the psychological impact of adrenaline-high winter sports, and building mental resilience.
Our nervous system is just as taxed from too much adrenaline sports as it is with stress at work or with relationships, Sprigings explained.
“If your happy place is snow sports, this creates a
bigger cortisol pump you’ve got to diversify,” he said.
He also acknowledged the toll an injury can take on your mental health when it prevents you from doing what you love. This highlights the importance of supplementing other activities and forms of movement into your winter lifestyle, regardless of your physical condition.
Sprigings recommended yoga and swimming as excellent activities to regulate the nervous system. Ultimately, he stressed the importance of being aware of your body’s unique needs and finding what works best for you.
Although we all share the joint experience of winter sports, Sprigings emphasized they are highly individualized activities which means that finding a balance socially must also be prioritized.
“Joining a social group in recovery from an injury, or to build a support network before we are struggling, is key,” Sprigings said.
For those who move to town for the season who are unaware of what community support is available, Sprigings suggested group sports like volleyball, basketball and badminton as great opportunities to interact with others.
The gym also helps combat mental challenges caused by the shorter days of the winter months.
“Exercise plays a significant role in alleviating the mental components of Seasonal Affective Disorder,” Sprigings said.
Physiotherapist Shannon Morton teaching strength and conditioning ahead of the ski season.
Photo provided by Keystone Health
Getting back on track
Even with adequate preparation and a balanced lifestyle, mistakes will happen. Sprigings emphasized the need for self-compassion when we fall off the wagon, or something doesn’t go to plan.
“Ultimately, it’s an opportunity to practice how quickly you can get back on
Force Plate Testing helps determine the risk of injury during ski season. 15 per cent or greater asymmetry is high risk.
Photo provided by Keystone Health
Lindsey Harris is a registered clinical counsellor at Keystone Health.
Photo provided by Keystone Health
CONDITIONS REPORT
A NEW YEAR’S TALE OF TWO SNOWPACKS IN THE B.C. INTERIOR.
By Brad Harrison
For the B.C. Interior, the early-season snowpack situation has been a best of time, worst of time set of scenarios. The snowpack quality and quantity have been a bit of a dog’s breakfast, and we have had the usual elevation-specific dividing line for both risk and riding quality. Earlier, there was a clear dividing line between precipitation types: rain at lower elevations and significant snowfall at higher elevations, resulting in good riding conditions in the alpine, but access was challenging.
There has also been an anomalous pattern in areas near Revelstoke and across the eastern ranges, with consistently heavy snowfall. Lake Louise is seeing a record-breaking start to the season, with the deepest early-season snowpack in 75 years.
As of Jan. 6, the Upper Mountain Base recorded an impressive 533 centimetres of snowfall. Over Rogers Pass, ski touring has been defined by punishing trail-breaking, with seasonal totals sitting around 335 centimetres at the start of January. A storm delivered up to 40 centimetres over Jan. 3 and Jan. 4. Meanwhile, many areas west and south of Revelstoke have been receiving significant precipitation, much of it rain. Many were impacted by the heavy rainfall and atmospheric river events experienced throughout November, December and into January. The warm temperatures and heavy rain have raised concerns about a weakening snowpack for both recreational riders and professional guides. At times, Avalanche Canada has indicated the avalanche hazard is significant and the Danger Rating as high. Storm systems persisted from mid-
December through the Christmas period, driving a rapid increase in mountain snowpack across much of the province, butrier and colder conditions during the final week of December reduced snow accumulation.
Most forecast models pointed toward the development of a high-pressure ridge over western North America by mid-January, which isn’t great news for snow lovers. That said, more recent trends suggest the ridge may set up farther inland, leaving the door open for warm, moisture-laden storms to track into the B.C. Interior from the southwest. It’s still not an ideal pattern, as freezing levels and snow lines are expected to rise—especially along the Coast. That could mean rain for areas such as Whistler, the North Shore and Vancouver Island later in the period as temperatures rise. The Interior will also see some warming, but it should be less pronounced, with precipitation amounts remaining more uncertain.
Northern zones, such as Revelstoke and Kicking Horse, are most likely to receive snow with this setup. While the base at Revelstoke might experience some rain at times, most of the skiable terrain should remain well above the rain–snow line. Further south, moisture appears more limited, reducing snowfall potential. As freezing levels rise, rain remains possible but should be pretty limited. Overall, conditions should improve the farther inland you go and the higher you ascend, even as temperatures rise into mid-January. Later in the month, the high-pressure ridge is forecast to move
west, just off the coast. That positioning will likely block most storm systems, though it may also allow colder air to flow in from the north.
Long-range guidance indicates limited moisture reaching B.C., mainly impacting the Interior, with the possibility of occasional light snowfall. At this stage, the systems appear moisture-starved, and a colder, drier pattern appears more likely.
When planning a backcountry winter trip, it’s worth taking advantage of the range of online tools available. Avalanche Canada’s Trip Planner is a solid resource when you’re deciding where to head for a day tour or a multi-day objective. One tool that’s newer to me—but has definitely caught my attention—is snowpack.avalanche.ca.
While we wait for the snowpack to continue building, the depth filter has been an easy way to fixate on numbers. Many mapping apps now offer similar features, and it’s a good reminder of just how useful these digital tools have become for solid pre-trip planning.
As always, staying safe starts with staying informed, keeping communication open and being willing to adapt as conditions change. Winter brings its challenges, but that’s part of what makes time in the mountains so rewarding. With a bit of planning and some honest decision-making, there’s still lots to enjoy while keeping risk in check. Make good calls, respect the backcountry, and aim for a season full of solid days out. And as always, recreate responsibly—and encourage others to do the same.
Photo submitted by Brad Harrison
CROWDS TURN UP FOR GRIZZLIES NEW YEAR’S EVE TRADITION
THE REVELSTOKE FORUM WAS JAM-PACKED FOR THE GRIZZLIES GAME AGAINST THE KAMLOOPS STORM.
By Lys Morton
The stands were full for the Revelstoke Grizzlies’ annual New Year’s Eve home game against the Kamloops Storm. From crowds pulling off full arena waves to goalie Austin Seibel’s unassisted end-to-end goal to wrap up the game, it was an evening filled with all the highlights one wants in a hockey game.
The Grizzlies beat the visiting team 4-2, making it the third New Year’s Eve Revelstoke has taken the win. The game has been a long-running staple in the season, marking a midpoint and bringing in some of the biggest crowds each year.
With newer residents and seasonal tourists settled into town, it can sometimes be the first hockey game for many.
“You get people from different foreign countries here and they love it, they just get right in on the spirit of the night,” Georgina Bellows, Grizzlies staff member said. The announcers for the game even welcomed international fans during gameplay and gave Australian and New Zealand fans a special shout out.
“The staff, the volunteers, the team, we just want people coming out to enjoy the game and have fun with it,” Bellows said.
Christopher Bowerman, stick boy, puck boy and stand-in mascot for the Grizzlies called a win for the home team from the start, predicting Revelstoke’s league famous crowds would bring the energy to match.
“We are the best fans and that means we win tonight,” he said before the players were even on the ice.
The New Year’s Eve game routinely sells out and crowds were gathered outside the Revelstoke Forum hoping for ticket no-shows and seats to empty up long before the doors opened.
Even with fireworks offered at various locations in and around Revelstoke, the game has developed into a sort of tradition for the town and even marks some key milestones for some.
“It’s sort of become this rite of passage for younger kids,” Dana Reaume said. “They can hang out with their friends, go to the concession stand themselves, they’re watching hockey players they look up to. And I get to sit and watch some good
hockey and not have to worry.”
With the Forum bringing in nearly 1,000 ticketed fans for the game, locals often run into familiar faces, something that helps with the community feel of the game and the comfort in letting younger kids stretch out, Reaume said.
“My favourite tiny humans are having the time of their lives, and I get to see folks in just a really fun setting.”
For younger fans Zach Jurkovic and Enzo Spataro, the night festivities guaranteed two things; hanging out with friends and watching their home hockey team play, “some really good hockey.”
The Revelstoke Grizzlies pulled out the win for the home crowd at the New Year’s Eve game. Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
Folks from all over town come out for the New Year’s Eve Game.Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
THE GRIZZLIES CORNER
RECAPS AND UPDATES ON ALL THINGS REVELSTOKE HOCKEY.
By Lys Morton
Keeping the home-ice advantage from the New Year’s Eve Game, the Grizzlies welcomed the Princeton Posse to the Revelstoke Forum for back-to-back games Friday, Jan. 2 and Saturday, Jan. 3. The Posse took the lead early in the first period and extended it with a second goal just before the period wrapped.
Jake Neufeld got the energy going, putting the home team on the board a minute into the second period. Brennen Coutts tied the game, but the Posse took the lead again after a scuffle meant penalties for both teams and gave the visiting team a power play advantage. Connor Shymoniak quickly tied things back up and Dayton Abbott gave the team its first lead in the game just before the second period wrapped. Jake Phillips-Watts pushed the lead a little farther during a power play for Revelstoke, with Princeton following closely behind with its last goal of the game. Coutts and Maguire Nicholson secured Revelstoke’s win with two more goals, giving the Grizzlies a 7-4 win against the Posse. The Grizzlies gave a shout out to Diego Smith for playing his 100th regular season KIJHL game.
The Posse came back looking for vengeance Saturday. Jett Patola, Jake Baker and Phillips-Watts’ trio of goals within the first five minutes of the game might have had crowds envisioning a different outcome. Princeton quickly locked Revelstoke out for the rest of the game and the Grizzlies couldn’t find a corner of the net while the Posse wracked points up through the second and third period. The visiting team took the win 6-3.
It was an overtime battle at the Revelstoke Forum Friday, Jan. 9 when the Grizzlies hosted Kelowna in front of a crowd of over 930.
The visiting team opened up scoring just over ten minutes into the first period, but Shymoniak quickly tied things up with Revelstoke’s first goal of the game. Kelowna snuck one more goal past goalie Austin Seibel just before the end of the period.
The goal chasing pattern continued in the second, with Baker tying things up early on in the second. Kelowna quickly took the lead back until later in the second period when Maddox Popke scored one during a power play for the Grizzlies.
The score was 3-3 going into the third period and stayed that way for the entire period, pushing the game to overtime. Fans didn’t have to wait long, though, with Popke netting the win less than two minutes in.
The Grizzlies hit the road Saturday, Jan. 9 to take on the 100 Mile House Wranglers.
Phillips-Watts quickly pushed that lead even farther with a goal nearly three minutes into the final period, and Abbott wrapped it up with one final point for the visiting team, giving Revelstoke a 6-1 win against 100 Mile House.
Revelstoke Grizzlies didn’t give the Osoyoos Coyotes a chance at the scoreboard Friday, Jan. 16 winning 5 to 0 in front of a crowd of 970 at the Revelstoke Forum.
Brock Hudson wasted no time getting the Grizzlies going with a goal just over a minute into the game. Noah Frick scored his first Kootenay International Junior Hockey League career goal unassisted 12 minutes into the first period. Kyle Dodd and Jaylen Forsyth also got past the Coyotes’ goalie just before the first period.
A penalty for interference didn’t put a halt to the Grizzlies’ scoring, with Patola nabbing the team’s final goal of the game eight minutes into the second period even while short-handed. Neither team got past the goalies during the third period and the Grizzlies took the win.
The home crowd kept the energy high Saturday, Jan. 17 welcoming the Nelson Leafs to a crowd of 850 at the Revelstoke Forum.
The Leafs snuck one past Stewart seven minutes into the game, but Neufeld quickly tied things back up. Blake Cameron gave Revelstoke the lead with his first KIJHL goal and Patola wrapped up the first period with one more goal during a power play.
Nicholson wasted no time getting Revelstoke on the scoreboard, with a goal less than two minutes into the game. The Wranglers got its first goal of the game past William Stewart less than ten minutes into the first, but it was the host team’s only goal for the rest of the game. Coutts put the Grizzlies back in the lead and then scored one more before the end of the first period.
Neufeld netted the only goal for either team in the second period, nabbing the unassisted point even while the Grizzlies were short-handed due to a penalty for slashing. The Wranglers couldn’t capitalize on the power play advantage, and the Grizzlies headed into the third period with a three-point lead.
FIRST TRACKS & BREAKFAST CLUB
The Grizzlies have been bringing the energy to packed crowds at the Revelstoke Forum.
Photo by Lys Morton/Revelstoke Mountaineer
SO NOT COOL!
by Barbara Olson
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