It’s Snowing!  or, as one guest (age – 3 years old) exclaimed upon seeing snow for the first time, “Dad, It’s noing!”  Lucky kid.  It wasn’t until I was 12 that I saw snow for the first time, and I wasn’t at Crescendo (or in Big White’s champagne powder).

Anyway, Big White has already had 10′ of snow this season, with about 6 of those as the current ski base.  And – even as I write this post, “It’s [still] noing!” at Big White.

Come join us!

Consiglio’s vision includes:

• a world class golf course
• wineries
• ski hill
• mountain bike park
• suspension bridges
• commercial amenities, shops and restaurants
• residential and resort accommodations

An artistic look at one of the suspension bridges

According to lawyer Garry Benson, speaking on behalf of Consiglio, it’s a $2-billion project that will create a couple of thousand construction jobs and 500 permanent jobs.

Benson says Consiglio is ready to proceed.

“The hold up at this point is getting into the Official Community Plan of the Regional District. Rather than have the Community Plan go in as it is, then turn around and later have to amend that plan, it seems like a long drawn out process that isn’t necessary,” says Benson.

“Really what the Regional District has to do is, basically, put us into the Community Plan and then we’ll worry about the development approval process at that time. The reason we’re coming forward now and making application is economics. That’s the biggest dictator.”

Despite the down economy, Benson says the time is right.

“It’s not going to stay down forever. When it does bounce back, that’s when you need to be in position. You don’t need to make the application at the peak of the economy, that doesn’t make any sense.”

He says plans are in the works to meet with Regional Board members including new Okanagan East Area Director, Patty Hansen.

“We are working on fine tuning some of our information. We are hoping to present them a more detailed package.”

A team works on the ski lift at Kelowna Mountain in 2009

Several amenities have already been constructed on the property, including:

• a 12 run ski hill with a triple chair
• three suspension bridges, including an 800-foot-long bridge, described as the longest in North America
• ‘Wine Cave.’

Because the property has not been zoned or included in the OCP, Consiglio can’t make the area available to the general public.

The ski hill was lit up Monday night for a private gathering for friends and family, an occurrence that prompted several calls and emails to the Castanet newsroom.

Ironically, that same night, the Regional Board deferred first reading of the South Slopes Officially Community Plan after receiving  an eight page brief from Consiglio outlining his request and proposal.

Possible options will be outlined for the board to consider at its next meeting February 9.

The brief prepared for the Regional Board by New York legal and business consultant, Michael Boccio, and obtained by Castanet News, is asking the board to consider adding a Kelowna Mountain Recreational Resort Comprehensive Development Zone.

Mark Consiglio (right) with Donald Trump

Benson says the development would be world class.

He says one large winery and other smaller ones on the property would be Mondavi wineries, while the golf course would be designed by world renowned Tom Fazio Designs.

“I think it’s a brilliant vision for Kelowna. This is going to change Kelowna. This going to put us on the map,” says Benson.

“We have a good wine industry, but it’s not on the world map the way it should be. We have lots of golf courses, but we don’t have one that puts us on the world map.”

The development would also include 1,200 single family homes and 600 multi-family units.

The document for the Regional Board concluded by stating the additional tax revenues created by the Kelowna Mountain Community would be a windfall to residents of the Central Okanagan East Electoral Area in the form of reduced taxes and would provide an overall net gain to the RDCO.

Meantime, Benson says rumours Donald Trump is in Kelowna in connection with the Kelowna Mountain project are not true, however, he did confirm that Boccio, who is Trump’s former lawyer, is in town.

It’s rumoured there is a chance Trump could become involved in the Kelowna Mountain project at some point.

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Woo Hoo…

For those lucky enough to be at Crescendo
last week, right now, next week
- Near 12″ of fresh powder in the last week.
- Still snowing right now.
- Additional snow in the forecast for later this week.

We’re trying something new this year.  During Ski Season, we will be offering special pricing for specific days that have not yet been booked, where the booking date is close to the check-in date (i.e., within 1 to 2 weeks).  When offered, those dates will be posted here, so check-out the Special Pricing section frequently.

January 3rd & 4th (Tuesday, Wednesday)
- Normally $4750 . . . . . Now $2750

January 10th & 11th (Tuesday, Wednesday)
- Normally $4750. . . . . . Now $2750

January 20th , 21st, 22nd (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
- Normally $6750. . . . . Now $5000 (for 2 of 3 nights, $3750)

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From the Guest Journal (and Emails) – Thanks!

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09-26-2011 (Brenda’s Babes)
Hazel – Magnificent!  Thank you.

Marsali – OMG…Let me know when you’re hiring!!

Jeanette – A truly unique environment.

Chris – Absolutely lovely…Beautiful home – Thank you!

Jaciala – So gorgeous and great company.  Lots of fun!

Elaine – Great company – Love the kitchen.

Jaycinta – A great place to get lost in a paradise.

Brenda – This was an awesome weekend,  Thank you for enabling others to enjoy your lovely vacation home.  It’s heaven on earth.

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09-29-2011 (Hydra Gardening)
Parker – Unreal place.

Jordon – An amazing place that continues to be the perfect staff getaway.  Thanks for the memories.

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11-28-2011 (Loyal Hair Therapy)
Hi Mitch –

I have been meaning to send a note for quite some time now, however, with the holiday season I keep getting distracted.

Thank you so much for enabling myself and my guests to have a wonderful time at Crescendo this past November.  The property is absolutely stunning and it was the perfect setting for the party.  Everyone had a fabulous time and we’re in awe of the beautiful home you have created.

Hopefully we can meet some time when you and Dixon are in the Okanagan Valley again.

Happy Holidays & all the best in the New Year.

…

12-23-2011 (Anellina/Carl)
Mitch/Dixon –

Reflecting again on our week’s stay at Crescendo in early September this past year.  What a place!  We had no idea when we saw it under construction what “mad” technical wizards you were. The TV/Movie room with that incredible 110″ plus screen was a treat. Your sound system is wonderful.  Especially in the Great Room, though, it is to die for. Great state-of-the art Gourmet Kitchen.

We really enjoyed the indoor/outdoor Spa. The steam shower up in the master bath with all those shower heads pointed at you was trick and very relaxing. The 180 degree plus views of the lush tree covered valley below and the mountains off in the distance are wonderful.

We will be very glad to hide out in luggage when you guys come back up in the winter. Lastly, we both felt a wonderful sense of peacefullness and beauty both indoors and out.  A great way to spend our Anniversary.  We love you guys!

Thanks again,

We’re trying something new this year.  During Ski Season, we will be offering special pricing for specific days that have not yet been booked, where the booking date is close to the check-in date (i.e., within 1 to 2 weeks).  When offered, those dates will be posted here, so check-out the Special Pricing section frequently.

January 3^rd & 4^th (Tuesday, Wednesday)
- Normally $4750 . . . . . Now $2750

Enjoy winter up on the hill

Do you have trouble maintaining friendships? Do people seem to be less and less available the longer they know you? Are you confused as to why your Mailman keeps losing wedding invitations people swear they mailed you?

Well my friend, you may be suffering from Socialitis. It’s a real problem facing millions of socially awkward Canadians. While the drug companies have been unable to treat it, we’ve discovered a cure.

Introducing:

“Buy a Place on a Ski Resort”, by Sherlock and Associates.

This safe, all natural remedy is proven to treat the worst cases of Socialitis (as well as Singleness). Happy clients report that within 3 months of buying their winter wonderland property their social lives improved dramatically. Colleagues began asking about holiday plans, extended family members started to visit and friends once believed to have left the country suddenly popped up and were available to hang out…at least on long weekends and after heavy snowfalls.

Wondering if now is the time to finally treat Socialitis? Consider these stats:

-There are currently 225 active listings at Big White alone.
-The average sold price at Big White is under $225,000 (significantly under the average listing price).
-Deals can now be readily found on Whistler, with many condos selling in the $350,000-$450,000 range.

Please contact us with your own specifics and we’ll get you set up with some current, active listings and the best deals on the BC Ski Resorts.

If you’ve ever considered investing in your own piece of your favourite ski resort, now is the time to take action. Let us know if we can be of service. We are able to introduce you to fantastic Realtors at all the major resorts including Silver Star, Red Mountain, Revelstoke Mountain, Sun Peaks, Big White and of course Whistler.

Warning: Side effects of “Buying a Place on a Ski Resort” include increased interest from the opposite sex, more enjoyable weekends and life long family memories.

The Ultimate in Luxury Ski Condos – Crescendo @ Big White

One of the most luxurious properties at Big White, Crescendo will impress even the most discerning individual. This property is available to rent for all of your special occasion including Christmas parties, family reunions, weddings, golf get aways or your dream ski vacation. It’s so fantastic you may have a hard time finding motivation to get out on to the slopes!

Click Here for more photos and info - Crescendo Feature

It’s time for my annual update about Crescendo’s improvements, and there have been many.

First, though, a big THANKS to everyone staying at Crescendo outside of Ski Season this past year.  Our May through September occupancy rate doubled, literally.  Many groups of golfing buddies, in addition to weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions, and bachelor/bachelorette parties.

Theatre

Our biggest change is to the Theatre.

- New Movie Server

- New Integra 9.2-channel amp/pre-amp.

It’s hard to believe that DVD (including BluRay) is old technology, but it is.  So, we’ve removed our 450 DVDs, and have loaded everything onto a hard drive system:  24 terabytes, in fact.  More than 850 titles (many in BluRay quality) now stream into the Theatre.  Our movies are searchable on-line (we’ll give you the username/password at booking), as well as from the comfort of your couch (by title, by genre, and more).  We’re experimenting with Netflix and Hulu (as if the 850 movies weren’t enough).We’ve also rewired for 3D, and may switch to a 1080p 3D projector next year.

The new Integra amp/pre-amp finally allows us to take full advantage of our two stereo 12” subwoofers.  The range and separation of the voicing from the background special effects has also substantially improved the clarity.  Even an old fart like me can now actually understand the dialogue.

Great Room

Two Angstrom 2-way speakers with 8” Vectran drivers have been added to the Great Room.  What does that mean?  Simply put,the system rocks!  We added a new iPod doc, which now accommodates the older iPods and the newer iPhones.  Plug in your iPod/iPhone, and the system reads your playlists.  The system displays your metadata on the touchpanels, and you have control & sound thereby.

Kitchen

Crescendo’s gourmet Kitchen has never been lacking.  Still, we are very interested in accommodating your unique needs/wants/wishes, so we’ve continued to add the small appliances and other items based on our your feedback.  This year, for example, we’ve added an Immersion Blender, Cuisinart Panini Maker, Cuisinart Waffle Iron (I still prefer the Mickey Mouse waffle maker, though), and so much more.

Additional

The Master Bedroom now has a 46” 1080p TV, with soundbar and sub-woofer. The TV is networked, so we may eventually allow it to talk to the MediaServer, so that the movies can stream into that room as well.

Motion detection has been enhanced and reprogrammed throughout the house, so that one can wander about at night without ever manually turning on/off any lights.

Internet – I can assure you, there is no one more impatient than me.  Accordingly, we’ve substantially increased our internet speed.  Also, just about annually we update Crescendo’s wireless access points (and we have five throughout the home), so that connectivity and speed are assured.

Some of you have seen/experienced our new Gaming that we added last year.  A professional grade Ping Pong table, a Bumper Pool table, a Poker table, and a Nintendo Wii.

As always, we look forward to another great Ski Season.  Again, if you are going to be on the mountain, please let me know (drMitch@drMitch.com).  If I happen to be at Crescendo during your stay, I’d love to have you drop by.

Wishing you and yours the very best this holiday season,

From Facebook – Thanks!

01-23-2011 (Doug)
Mitch

Another great stay at Crescendo.

Over the years, our ping pong tourney has evolved into a major event.  The new table is great, and attached is a photo of our trophy that goes home with the winners:  proudly named,

“The Dr. Mitch Trophy.”

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01-28-2011 (Dean)
This house is a playground! I absolutely love this place because it will make anyone feel like a rockstar/moviestar if only for a few nights I doubt anyone could find a nicer, funner, and more extreme place to ski in and out of! Regards,

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02-12-2011 (Jason)
I was at the Grand Canyon 1 week before we arrived at Crescendo and I think the amazement was the same…what an unreal house! Our expectations were far exceeded when we arrived. I remember my first view of the house and my mouth dropping. We had 17 of us all together and this made for a great experience as we could not have had this at another house in Big White. All the amenities were far greater than I expected as well. Superb location and an exceptional time! We would not hesitate to recommend this house to anyone visiting Big White. Thanks for an amazing experience Crescendo! Just beware of hot tub eggs…

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04-25-2011 (Neel)
We had a fantastic weekend at Crescendo.  Your property is absolutely amazing and provided us with all the amenities and luxuries anyone could ask for.  Although the resort was completely closed, the fresh snow and fantastic (sunny, +15′C) kept the kids busy outside.  They had the entire hill to themselves for endless hours of sledding, snowball fights, etc.  We would hit the hot tub/pool each afternoon for some relaxation.  Having the BBQ onsite was perfect as each night we cooked some great meals and enjoyed large family feasts in the dining room, before setting down in the media room to watch our beloved Vancouver Canucks compete in teh playoffs on the 110″ screen.

Thanks again.  We are already talking about how we can come back early December to enjoy the property and also some skiing.  It was a shame the resort closed on April 10th, as the amount of fresh snow and great weather would have been enjoyed by all.  But on the same token, it was a cool feeling knowing that we had the entire Big White resort to ourselves!  How often can anyone say that

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From the Guest Journal (and Emails) – Thanks!

08-01-2011 (Joe)
Just had a great weekend at Crescendo!  Used the house as a base for a golf weekend for myself and 20 friends.  The home was larger and more grand than we could have ever expected.  We’d never been up to Big White in the summer before, and it was surprisingly quiet and cool, which was nice after hours in the hot sun on the course.  Would recommend Crescendo in the summer to any large group who wants to get near Kelowna but not in the middle of the action.  Many thanks to Mitch and Sheila who made our stay great!

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08-07-2011 (Simon)
Mitchel -

The Crescendo is a fantastic getaway.  We all had an amazing time!  The house is beautiful, and what a spot up in Big White!  Jaw-dropping views, and the house complements the surroundings.

The technology of the home was outstanding, and there were no glitches to speak of.  The Crescendo is the boo ya, and all the upgrades worked fantastic.

Thank you much.

We will be back soon!

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08-26-2011 (Peter)
Our family enjoyed a summer visit to Crescendo.  It offered lots of things to do in the house and a Great Room to catch-up and share meals.  A high-tech house indeed!

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09-11-2011 (Anellina/Carl)
Mitch/Dixon -

Thanks again for the wonderful opportunity to stay at Crescendo for a whole week in early September.  The weather was perfect:  mid 70’s during the day and low 60’s at night (we gave up on Celcius, we are proud ignorant Americans).  It was wonderfully quiet on the mountain.  Enjoyed hangin-out with the locals at Carver’s (only place open, but food was good).

Crescendo is a technical marvel!  The only thing missing are automatic toilet paper dispensers, but I’m sure you are working on it.  The indoor/outdoor spa was a treat, the steam shower in the master and the Jacuzzi looking out over the Great Room and the mountains – great touch.

I can see what you mean that Crescendo can hold alot of people at once without the feeling of being crowded – with all the multi levels and ways to entertain oneself. We felt very cozy just the two of us.

We had a great time in that wonderful state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen.  Cooked to our heart’s content.  Used the outdoor barbeque a lot, being so close to the kitchen. I told Anellina the only thing the kitchen lacked was the Ice Cream maker, and then I found that too.

Tremendous views, great ambiance.  A truly wonderful way to spend our Anniversary.

Thanks again so much.

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09-26-2011 (Brenda’s Babes)
Hazel – Magnificent!  Thank you.

Marsali – OMG…Let me know when you’re hiring!!

Jeanette – A truly unique environment.

Chris – Absolutely lovely…Beautiful home – Thank you!

Jaciala – So gorgeous and great company.  Lots of fun!

Elaine – Great company – Love the kitchen.

Jaycinta – A great place to get lost in a paradise.

Brenda – This was an awesome weekend,  Thank you for enabling others to enjoy your lovely vacation home.  It’s heaven on earth.

…

09-29-2011 (Hydra Gardening)
Parker – Unreal place.

Jordon – An amazing place that continues to be the perfect staff getaway.  Thanks for the memories.

…

11-28-2011 (Loyal Hair Therapy)
Hi Mitch –

I have been meaning to send a note for quite some time now, however, with the holiday season I keep getting distracted.

Thank you so much for enabling myself and my guests to have a wonderful time at Crescendo this past November.  The property is absolutely stunning and it was the perfect setting for the party.  Everyone had a fabulous time and we’re in awe of the beautiful home you have created.

Hopefully we can meet some time when you and Dixon are in the Okanagan Valley again.

Happy Holidays & all the best in the New Year.

…

12-23-2011 (Anellina/Carl)
Mitch/Dixon –

Reflecting again on our week’s stay at Crescendo in early September this past year.  What a place!  We had no idea when we saw it under construction what “mad” technical wizards you were. The TV/Movie room with that incredible 110″ plus screen was a treat. Your sound system is wonderful.  Especially in the Great Room, though, it is to die for. Great state-of-the art Gourmet Kitchen.

We really enjoyed the indoor/outdoor Spa. The steam shower up in the master bath with all those shower heads pointed at you was trick and very relaxing. The 180 degree plus views of the lush tree covered valley below and the mountains off in the distance are wonderful.

We will be very glad to hide out in luggage when you guys come back up in the winter. Lastly, we both felt a wonderful sense of peacefullness and beauty both indoors and out.  A great way to spend our Anniversary.  We love you guys!

Thanks again,

From Facebook – These are GREAT!  Thanks!

01-02-2010 (Peter)
Stayed last Feb, my best mate’s old man rented the Crescendo for 2 weeks. The bar full of lat 50 and 1000 inch tv that was next to my bed was my highlight. Waking up next to the bear was my second. The kitchen was awesome and views to die for. When we weren’t enjoying the Crescendo, we were up at Sams on the froths. Not sure why I took my snowboard, but I will know better next time. Thanks Dr Mitch.  I’m in talks with dad re next Jan, so I will be in touch ..haz (sydney, aust )

01-01-2010 (Jules)
Stayed last February.  Had the time of our life.  Have sent the architectural plans to St Peter, so when I get to heaven he will already have a start on my dream chalet.  If comfort, style, and ski aesthetics are high on your ‘bucket list’ you just can’t beat ‘big-daddy-crescendo’, catch you in the hot-tub after the next powder run. Jules (sydney, aust.)

01-20-2010 (Jason)
Absolutely loved Crescendo. Stayed there for MLK weekend and I had a wonderful time. The skiing was amazing (ski in and ski out is a great feature). Tons of great movies to watch on the home-theatre. The house is beautiful, the slopes are great, and the whole package is amazing.

03-04-2010 (Justin)
What a place!

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From the Guest Journal – Thanks!

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From the Guest Register – Thanks!