Addiction { There Is a Way Out

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY2013 Global Citizenship

Locals working to

make a difference Addiction { There is a way out

Hockey fans Les Misérables

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Book your consultation online or call us for more information ORCHARD PARK MALL Local: 250.868.3070 [email protected] 778.484.7005 1626 Richter St., Kelowna Toll Free: 866.861.3070 www.DermMedica.ca (Downtown beside Safeway)

2013 01 OKLife - page 3 - DermMedica.indd 1 12/12/2012 12:04:52 PM Kelowna Vein & Skin Solutions Winter Is A Popular Time for Cosmetic Treatments Our Top 3 Get-Ready-For-Summer Procedures

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Local: 250.868.3070 [email protected] 1626 Richter St., Kelowna Toll Free: 866.861.3070 www.DermMedica.ca (Downtown beside Safeway)

2013 01 OKLife - page 3 - DermMedica.indd 1 12/12/2012 12:04:52 PM contents publisher/editor J. Paul Byrne 12 14 senior editor Laurie Carter associate editor Dawn Renaud departments creative director Mishell Raedeke administration Wendy Letwinetz 6 PAUL’S VOICE contributing writers Natalie Appleton Michael Botner 8 PULSE Laurie Carter News roundup Patti Shales Lefkos Shannon Linden 39 42 12 IN PERSON Dawn Renaud Doug Cox Gillianne Richards Barbara Sutherland 14 CULTURISTA Spirit of Winter: Selah contributing Michael Botner Outdoor Explorations photographers Laurie Carter Sue Egan 39 HIGH SPIRITS Doug Farrow Learn about the complex physical Barry Hodgins relationship between wine, Shannon Linden taste and touch Roger Perry Dawn Renaud 42 WHO AMONG US Gillianne Richards When sudden illness or trauma strikes, Yvonne Turgeon teams of professionals led by the likes of Dr. Mike Ertel swing into action okanaganlife.com Laurie Carter 16 editor 46 REARVIEW Almost ready: the struggle to quit ISSN 08405492 (Okanagan Life) / ISSN 11803975 (Okanagan Business) / Join the Okanagan Okanagan Life magazine is a member of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism planning and start doing Association, Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, Penticton & Wine Country Regional Library for Chamber of Commerce, Summerland Chamber of Economic Development & Tourism, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, Westbank and District Chamber of Commerce, British Columbia Association of Magazine a Valleywide reading Publishers (BCAMP), City and Regional Magazine Association (CRMA) and program that will spur Circulation Verification Council (CVC). community dialogue Okanagan Life is published by and enrich community Byrne Publishing Group Inc. connections. To subscribe: Call 250.861.5399 Email [email protected] That’s right partner: 22 To advertise: Call 250.861.5399 One Okanagan, one book. Email [email protected] Write to: 814 Lawrence Avenue Kelowna, BC V1Y 6L9 ; or visit Read Shoot! www.okanaganlife.com features special section

by George Bowering Okanagan Life is available at several newsstands throughout the Valley. For a full list, please visit 16 GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP www.okanaganlife.com/wheretobuy.php 30 BEST OF THE OKANAGAN Prepare to be inspired by the globe trotting okanaganreads.ca © 2013, All rights reserved. Opinions and perspectives A showcase of ﬁ nalists and winners Sponsored by expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and adventures of local leaders who personify from our 2012 Best of the Okanagan do not necessarily represent the views of the ownership generosity of spirit or management. Reproduction in whole or in part Readers’ Choice Awards without the publisher’s consent is strictly prohibited. 22 ADDICTION Drugs, alchohol, sex—addiction ruins lives and CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL families suffer too. Here’s where to get help

www.orl.bc.ca

PHOTOS BY DAWN RENAUD, GILLIANNE RICHARDS, MICHAEL BOTNER, SHANNON LINDEN AND CONTRIBUTED 4 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 5 12 14 contents departments

6 PAUL’S VOICE

8 PULSE News roundup

39 42 12 IN PERSON Doug Cox

14 CULTURISTA Spirit of Winter: Selah Outdoor Explorations

39 HIGH SPIRITS Learn about the complex physical relationship between wine, taste and touch

42 WHO AMONG US When sudden illness or trauma strikes, teams of professionals led by the likes 16 of Dr. Mike Ertel swing into action 46 REARVIEW Almost ready: the struggle to quit planning and start doing

features special section

GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP 16 30 BEST OF THE OKANAGAN Prepare to be inspired by the globe trotting A showcase of ﬁ nalists and winners adventures of local leaders who personify from our 2012 Best of the Okanagan generosity of spirit Readers’ Choice Awards

22 ADDICTION Drugs, alchohol, sex—addiction ruins lives and families suffer too. Here’s where to get help

PHOTOS BY DAWN RENAUD, GILLIANNE RICHARDS, MICHAEL BOTNER, SHANNON LINDEN AND CONTRIBUTED okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 5 paul'svoice hoarding it? The average Wretched Fan has skated backwards for the past 30 years. He only makes $46,000 a year. I’d Love To Change The World fi ts nicely here. In a brilliant rendition of Money for Nothing—Your Pucks for Free, Bill Daly and Gary Bettman yodel the many challenges poor Owners encounter every day in their harsh and bitter lives. The greatest challenges can be Some of them now have less than a billion dollars to get by on. They whine managed with the right team. out the ABBA tune Money, Money, Money. In a decidedly weird twist, the Hockey fans— second act opens with Owners At MacKay LLP, we are dedicated to providing our clients with value-added constructing a barricade to lock and cost effective solutions. Our firm’s service is defined by our hands- on approach to client relationships. Through our strong work ethic and Les Misérables Players and The Wretched out of commitment to high quality and timely professional service, we can help you the rinks. Owners sing We Are The successfully navigate through financial waters. Most hockey fans believe that the Champions because—well, they believe NHL lockout has been a necessary they are! The Miserable Ones have a Audit | Consulting | Tax Compliance | Tax Planning | Accounting epic struggle, not unlike the game mid-ice crisis when they fi nd out that BOOST itself and not dissimilar from the the 30 NHL owners have a median French historical novel by Victor Hugo, net worth of $1.75 billion, with Jets YOUR LIFE! Les Misérables. Pitting mere mortal owner and Canadian David Thomson Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors millionaire hockey players against the topping the list at $22 billion. SMOOTHIES | FRESH SQUEEZED JUICES | HOT FOOD | SNACKS 500-1620 Dickson Avenue | Kelowna, BC V1Y 9Y2 aristocratic billionaire owners should Chirping Take the Money and Run, tel 250 763.5021 | fax 250 763.3600 | www.mackay.ca make for a blockbuster musical. Mexican Carlos Slim sings the Owners Les misérables can be translated from to sleep. Slim is the #1 draft-pick Kelowna | Vancouver | Surrey | Edmonton | Calgary | Whitehorse | Yellowknife BoosterJuice.com the French as “the miserable ones,” “the among billionaires this year with wretched,” “the poor ones” or “the victims.” a $75+ billion personal net worth. At fi rst glance, the players and owners We reach the climax when do not seem to fi t this description, so The Poor Ones fi nally grasp that with your permission, I’ll cast us fans in it is the billionaires who are that role. We are willing martyrs, ever hoarding the world’s money optimistic and by today’s billionaires’ supply—shattering economies standards, an unremarkably quiet and undermining democracy. group. But wait, revolution is brewing. The Wretched also notice that the Buy a Regular Size In the opening scene, The Poor Ones, Owners impose salary caps on the angry with Players and Owners about Players and the rest of society, but Smoothie and get a high-ticket prices, incomplete seasons have no salary caps themselves. The Snack Size for only 99¢! and fi nancial inequality, would sing I Wretched and The Players sing What Up Because your smile Bring in this ad to redeem this offer. Offer is valid OnLy at the listed Dreamed a Dream. Later the hockey GMs With That. The Miserables form an idea- Booster Juice locations below. not to be used in conjunction with any other harmonize Players for Sale or Rent as barricade. They boycott NHL rinks and offer. One coupon per customer. Managements reserves all rights. Valid until February 14, 2013. can be amazing too... NHL Players Association boss Donald limit their spending at the billionaires’ Fehr croons out a solo. Clad in Rod megamalls. The Victims rise up. The Stewart candy cane tights, hockey sock Miserables support the Miserables. Grab a Booster Juice at one of our 11 GReAT locations in the Thompson/Okanagan! in place, Donald gazes longingly into Do you hear the people sing? Kamloops - Lansdowne Village West Kelowna - Governor’s Landing Gary Bettman’s eyes, tears fl owing Na na… na na na na… hey 450 Lansdowne Street 3041 Louie Drive like warm water from a Zamboni, hey hey… goodbye! Kamloops - Aberdeen Mall Penticton - Cherry Lane Shopping Centre and belts out the Donna Summer 1320 TCH West Unit #199 Cherry Lane Shopping Centre tune They Work Hard For the Money. Kamloops - Summit Shopping Center Princeton - Highway 3 Act One draws to a close as The 1180 Columbia Street West 245 Highway 3 Victims fi nd out that the annual salary Kelowna - Capri Centre Salmon Arm - Trans Canada Hwy for a Player is around $2.2 million. The 1101 Harvey Avenue 160 Trans Canada Hwy John Paul Byrne Kelowna - Orchard Park Mall Vernon - Vernon Square Poor Ones understand this reeks of publisher 2271 Harvey Avenue 4400 32nd Street, Unit #100 Vernon Square excess, but they are confused. They [email protected]. Kelowna - Plaza 24 (Kelowna Centre) know there is enough money, but who is www.okanaganlife.com. 1155 K.L.O. Road www.simplyamazingsmiles.com 250.762.2521

6 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 7 paul'svoice hoarding it? The average Wretched Fan has skated backwards for the past 30 years. He only makes $46,000 a year. I’d Love To Change The World fi ts nicely here. In a brilliant rendition of Money for Nothing—Your Pucks for Free, Bill Daly and Gary Bettman yodel the many challenges poor Owners encounter every day in their harsh and bitter lives. Some of them now have less than a billion dollars to get by on. They whine out the ABBA tune Money, Money, Money. In a decidedly weird twist, the second act opens with Owners constructing a barricade to lock Players and The Wretched out of the rinks. Owners sing We Are The Champions because—well, they believe they are! The Miserable Ones have a mid-ice crisis when they fi nd out that BOOST the 30 NHL owners have a median net worth of $1.75 billion, with Jets YOUR LIFE! owner and Canadian David Thomson topping the list at $22 billion. SMOOTHIES | FRESH SQUEEZED JUICES | HOT FOOD | SNACKS Chirping Take the Money and Run, Mexican Carlos Slim sings the Owners to sleep. Slim is the #1 draft-pick BoosterJuice.com among billionaires this year with a $75+ billion personal net worth. We reach the climax when The Poor Ones fi nally grasp that it is the billionaires who are hoarding the world’s money supply—shattering economies and undermining democracy. The Wretched also notice that the Buy a Regular Size Owners impose salary caps on the Players and the rest of society, but Smoothie and get a have no salary caps themselves. The Snack Size for only 99¢! Wretched and The Players sing What Up Bring in this ad to redeem this offer. Offer is valid OnLy at the listed With That. The Miserables form an idea- Booster Juice locations below. not to be used in conjunction with any other barricade. They boycott NHL rinks and offer. One coupon per customer. Managements reserves all rights. Valid until February 14, 2013. limit their spending at the billionaires’ megamalls. The Victims rise up. The Miserables support the Miserables. Grab a Booster Juice at one of our 11 GReAT locations in the Thompson/Okanagan! Do you hear the people sing? Kamloops - Lansdowne Village West Kelowna - Governor’s Landing Na na… na na na na… hey 450 Lansdowne Street 3041 Louie Drive hey hey… goodbye! Kamloops - Aberdeen Mall Penticton - Cherry Lane Shopping Centre 1320 TCH West Unit #199 Cherry Lane Shopping Centre Kamloops - Summit Shopping Center Princeton - Highway 3 1180 Columbia Street West 245 Highway 3 Kelowna - Capri Centre Salmon Arm - Trans Canada Hwy 1101 Harvey Avenue 160 Trans Canada Hwy John Paul Byrne Kelowna - Orchard Park Mall Vernon - Vernon Square publisher 2271 Harvey Avenue 4400 32nd Street, Unit #100 Vernon Square [email protected]. Kelowna - Plaza 24 (Kelowna Centre) www.okanaganlife.com. 1155 K.L.O. Road

okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 7 pulse pulse day and instructing Zumba Sareena obeys. She wobbles classes by night, Sareena says and then stills herself. time and a distaste for the cold “It’s sort of a new feeling,” have stood between her and the says Julie. “You get on to this slip- hill all these years. She admits pery surface and you kind of feel that the last time she was at like Bambi for a few minutes.” Silver Star was in elementary Between then and the end school. In her mind the resort of the hour, Sareena hops always seemed further away. like a bunny, takes steps “It only took me 20 minutes and almost gets gliding. to get here,” she says, walking “You make it look toward the village where she can so easy,” she says. get outfi tted with skis. “You drive Sareena studies the doz- up to this beautiful mountain ens of veterans coasting past and there’s so much out here. If SHANNON HODGES HELPS TO ORGANIZE RENTAL EQUIPMENT her into the crooks of the (being one of the Silver Six) gets mountain. “I don’t know if I’ll me up here to experience it, great.” ing alongside instructor and ever look like Julie, but I’d like On the day of her fi rst lesson, it’s Sovereign communications coordi- to be able to do a nice glide.” blustery but mild at Sovereign. The nator Julie Melanson on the way to A week later during a lesson with previous night four centimetres of the Stadium, the landing area from Guy that took her on a three-kilometre snow fell and on this day snow dusts which all of Sovereign’s trails begin. trek into the woods, she did just that. everything, from the day lodge and When the lesson gets under “Thanks again, Sareena,” said ABOVE FROM LEFT: SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN HOST ROB MADDEN, GALEN BARNHARDT, NORDIC MANAGER GUY PAULSEN, SAREENA NICKOLI AND BRUCE ACTON FACING PAGE FROM LEFT: BRUCE ACTON, SAREENA NICKOLIAND GALEN BARNHARDT the little ones’ scarves to the pine way, Julie has Sareena fi nd her Guy in a text. “You did great today!” boughs and Sareena’s new boots. balance. “Try standing on one Sareena replied. “No—thank “I’m not a skier,” she says, traips- ski,” she says. “Close your eyes.” you.” —Natalie Appleton SILVER STAR SIX New cross-country skiers discover Silver Star and Sovereign Lake

In a nook of green between Bruce came from Edmonton, where Lake, which now offer a double-pass pines sifted with white, a wea- he once tried cross-country skiing so skiers can enjoy a combined 105 sel cracks through the snow. along the comparatively ﬂ at North kilometres of cross-country trails, “An ermine weasel,” says one of the Saskatchewan River valley. “One of regularly host international competi- Silver Star Six, a group of ﬁ rst-timers the reasons we moved to Vernon tions and training events attended chosen by the resort to be a part of a was to do things like this,” he says. by top athletes from as far away as campaign to promote cross-country Other members of the Silver Star Yellowknife, Utah and Sweden. skiing at Silver Star and Sovereign Six include City Furniture market- A recent New York Times arti- Lake Nordic Centre. The Six are taking director Sareena Nickoli and cle titled 12 Months of Skiing, From ing a Nordic skiing lesson, gliding Cedar Creek Winery assistant wine- Chile to China listed Silver Star as along Silver Star Mountain Resort’s maker Galen Barnhardt, along with the best place to be in January. Meadow Trail, a beginner route that three Okanagan reporters: CHBC’s Tim Neville writes, “…you can loops around Brewer’s Pond before Robert Buffam, Jennifer Zielinski cross-country ski on some 62 winding down to the village. from Castanet and SUN 105.7 FM gorgeous miles of groomed trails They marvel at the ermine’s snow morning host Brian Martin. — some of which are reachable white coat and black little eyes. He Their mission: take three les- from the ski lifts, a rare treat.” waits while the skiers carry on. sons; explore the mountain’s And yet, says Guy, people who “You see a different side of Silver world-renowned trails; and tell have this mountain in their own Star—you feel closer to nature,” others what they’ve seen. backyard aren’t taking advan- says Bruce Acton, president of Acton “We want people talking about tage of it, which is what the Silver Consulting and a celebrity student. it,” says Guy Paulsen, Silver Star’s Six hopes to cure this winter. In November he was asked to be Nordic manager and originator of The campaign takes only a one of the Silver Six. “I was really the Silver Six idea. “We really want to few hours to work on Sareena. excited,” says Bruce, who moved make it an attraction for the city.” Handling marketing for her fam- to the Okanagan 16 months ago. Silver Star and adjoining Sovereign ily’s busy furniture business by

PHOTOS BY YVONNE TURGEON 8 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 9 pulse day and instructing Zumba Sareena obeys. She wobbles classes by night, Sareena says and then stills herself. time and a distaste for the cold “It’s sort of a new feeling,” have stood between her and the says Julie. “You get on to this slip- hill all these years. She admits pery surface and you kind of feel that the last time she was at like Bambi for a few minutes.” Silver Star was in elementary Between then and the end school. In her mind the resort of the hour, Sareena hops always seemed further away. like a bunny, takes steps “It only took me 20 minutes and almost gets gliding. to get here,” she says, walking “You make it look toward the village where she can so easy,” she says. get outfi tted with skis. “You drive Sareena studies the doz- up to this beautiful mountain ens of veterans coasting past and there’s so much out here. If SHANNON HODGES HELPS TO ORGANIZE RENTAL EQUIPMENT her into the crooks of the (being one of the Silver Six) gets mountain. “I don’t know if I’ll me up here to experience it, great.” ing alongside instructor and ever look like Julie, but I’d like On the day of her fi rst lesson, it’s Sovereign communications coordi- to be able to do a nice glide.” blustery but mild at Sovereign. The nator Julie Melanson on the way to A week later during a lesson with previous night four centimetres of the Stadium, the landing area from Guy that took her on a three-kilometre snow fell and on this day snow dusts which all of Sovereign’s trails begin. trek into the woods, she did just that. everything, from the day lodge and When the lesson gets under “Thanks again, Sareena,” said the little ones’ scarves to the pine way, Julie has Sareena fi nd her Guy in a text. “You did great today!” boughs and Sareena’s new boots. balance. “Try standing on one Sareena replied. “No—thank “I’m not a skier,” she says, traips- ski,” she says. “Close your eyes.” you.” —Natalie Appleton

okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 9 pulse to treat both private paying and MSP- covered patients, but can’t under the cur- rent system, sees it as a question of medical care for everyone. “Why shouldn’t the public be given a choice?” he asks. “We already have a multi-tier system.” Referring to WorkSafeBC, ICBC, the RCMP and even federal prisoners—seen promptly and paid for by private insurance— Lewis says allowing physicians to work both systems is economically reasonable, will attract more doctors and will allow more dermatologists to be trained. Ultimately this will lead to short- From chic carpets er wait times and better patient care. to high-fashion hardwood, The problem is, as a de-enrolled physician, Lewis can’t order lab work, Flooring Canada is your DR. RICHARD LEWIS SEES PRIVATE PAY AS THE SOLUTION TO LOOMING SPECIALIST CARE CRISIS X-rays or take biopsies that are paid choice for luxury flooring. for by MSP. While some local physi- DERMATOLOGIST OPTS OUT cians have agreed to see his patients, performing procedures and requesting Two-tier medical care for the Okanagan? lab work through MSP, he believes the government is ethically responsible. With 50 per cent of British Columbia’s (MSP), Lewis has de-enrolled. Along After all, most privately paying practicing dermatologists over age 58 with colleague, Dr. Chris Sladden, patients still pay MSP premiums. Ring in the and 25 per cent over 65, the province he now bills patients privately. Likewise, the specialists involved are faces a serious health care problem. “We’re charting new terri- already paid by Interior Health in New Year with The University of British Columbia tory,” says Lewis. “The government the lab or MSP in their practices. graduates only three new dermatolo- doesn’t know what to do with us.” “If the government of the day gists a year and retains only two. The While patients have always paid crunched the numbers, they would see lowest pay scale in the country seems for cosmetic procedures like Botox a savings for everyone and medical care to outweigh the lure of lifestyle. and some plastic surgery, Lewis is would be greatly improved,” says Lewis. “You’re a new graduate, your diploma now charging for medical procedures. Working weekdays in Kamloops is hanging on the wall. You see BC at Patients can deduct those medical and on Saturdays at the West Kelowna the bottom of the fee schedule and the expenses from their income tax. Walk-In and Family Practice Clinic, Maritimes at the top. Where are you not Agreeing to de-enroll for a mini- Lewis sees emergencies pro bono, going to go?” asks Dr. Richard Lewis, mum of one year, he hopes his experi- but for now he charges patients for a Kamloops based dermatologist who ment in alternate billing will give scheduled appointments. Someday recently set up shop in West Kelowna. way to the two-tiered system he sees he hopes to give them a choice. Whether it’s a persistent rash as a solution to the medical crisis “If cops and criminals can or acne; eczema or psoriasis; rosa- of long waits for few specialists. have it, why not the rest of the cea or something more serious, like Lewis, who would like to be able province?” —Shannon Linden Let us Help You Find the Perfect Floor for skin cancer, British Columbians wait between two and three months to the Way You Live, Work, and Play see a dermatologist—possibly lon- locallookalikes? Dedicated professionals serving the community since 1985, ger if they live in the Okanagan. Flooring Canada Kelowna. With only one full-time specialist practicing in each of the Valley’s FINE WINE Codfathers Sea- The Hildebrandt Family major cities (Kelowna, Penticton, and food Market owner Jon Crofts Vernon), the doctors are in high demand, may not be a scholar, but he’s a 325 Banks Road but relief is low on the horizon. dead ringer for Will Enns’ paint- The dire situation has prompted Kelowna, BC V1X 6A1 ing The Scholar featured on our Lewis to take drastic measures. September 2012 cover. —staff (250) 763-1234 While most BC physicians are enrolled in the Medical Services Plan www.flooringcanadakelowna.ca

DR. LEWIS PHOTO BY SHANNON LINDEN; JON CROFTS PHOTO BY JOHN PAUL BYRNE 10 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com New Flooring From chic carpets to high-fashion hardwood, Flooring Canada is your choice for luxury flooring.

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The Hildebrandt Family 325 Banks Road Kelowna, BC V1X 6A1 (250) 763-1234 www.flooringcanadakelowna.ca New Flooring ADVERTISEMENT inperson DOUG COX 2013 Wealth Management Team The Peacock Sheridan Group has an experienced team of planning professionals specializing in business owners and dental/medical professionals.

here are only two names in the Pea- The firm prides itself on pro-active customer cock Sheridan Group company title, service, but understands that each business owner but there’s a whole team of profes- will have unique circumstances which demand sionals around the founding partners. ‘tailor made’ solutions, and not a one-plan-fits-all ap- “We have an unbelievable team of proach which is often the case with bigger compa- business advisors whom are committed to serving nies in the wealth management and insurance field. the often complex and diverse needs of the business “We’re like a law firm in that everyone is owner,” said Grant Sheridan. “We have a well- a specialist in a different area, which makes balanced, diverse and experienced Advisory group.” us stand out.” Sheridan continues, “We also The Peacock Sheridan Group is a wealth are business owners and we understand management and insurance planning firm that the complexity of owning a business.” builds strategic wealth, business and estate plans Brent Peacock furthers Grant’s comments: for business owners and dental and medical “One thing that has become clear over the years Brent Peacock and Grant Sheridan. professionals, and estate plans for successful in working in this market, is that we as advisors families, business owners. The team has fol- and a firm can learn a lot from our clients, and lowed a simple but important philosophy; always the successes and failures they have experienced Sheridan adds that if people want to be focus on identifying and understanding the along the way. Working and collaborating with successful and wealthy, the best way is to learn client’s situation (their issues, problems, op- successful clients is highly rewarding, and it is from people who are already successful. portunities) before ever applying any advice. exciting when we can apply some of these les- The Peacock Sheridan Group has been PRESERVING THE PAST Adhering to this mantra has been cen- sons or experiences to the next client to create expanding steadily since it formally started 8 years Doug Cox says it’s a hobby that has were telling me about the freight photo history of Penticton and area. tral to the growth at PSG. even more powerful and creative solutions.” ago and now has offices in Kelowna and Vancou- ver and has a team of 18 people (11 Advisors and 7 gotten completely out of hand. wagons and the stage coaches and Mines of the Eagle Country recounts the Support Staff). Their team of respected advisors -in Although his books recount- all that,” he says, and soon he was story of the Nickel Plate and Mascot cludes Rusty Bracken, John Humphries, Greg Cart- ing area history have been local collecting their stories —along with mines. S.S. Sicamous, Queen of Okanagan er, Dustin Serviss, Marc Gaucher, Doug Deschner, bestsellers for decades, as a child plenty of black and white photos. Lake and Wagon Train over the Monashee We have a well-balanced, Allan Hryniuk, Evan Marble and Devin Beatty. he wasn’t particularly interested in This led to a long-term relationship illustrate how traversing the area diverse and experienced “All are highly recognized and respected reading or writing. He was, however, with the Western News-Advertiser. For was once a lot more complicated. advisors who chose to work with us because blessed with a natural curiosity. “I 18 years, he supplied them weekly with While in Hawaii a few years ago, Advisory group. of a shared philosophy and because of what travel with a camera in one hand a photo and a story caption. In those he came across the story of thousands we can offer their clients,” Peacock says. and a tape recorder in the other,” he days he often knocked on doors to ask of head of cattle being transported “It’s win-win-win; a win for the client most importantly, and for the advisor and for the firm. says. “I’m always asking questions.” for family histories; surprisingly, he from Hawaii to North America; hence These high quality advisors are getting value from Doug’s enthusiasm for history was says, people were usually delighted his latest book, Hawaiian Ranching. being part of this firm, and the clients are the sparked while he was on the other to invite him in, share their stories, Although he claims this book will be ultimate winners. It is paying off for everyone.” side of the globe. He’d been touring and allow him to copy their photos. his swan song, Doug has embraced The Peacock Sheridan Group has crafted the world (“it was the thing to do in Eventually it made sense to collect the digital age. Electronic readers a team that focuses on trust and respect. the ’70s”) and while in South Africa these into books. Okanagan Roots was allow him to produce his books with “You’re not dealing with the new kids he wrote home. His father wrote fi rst produced by the Western and colour photos, and he has combined on the block, but a team of experienced back, mentioning that Doug’s grand- Webco West Press in 1987, with an ini- older titles into new editions. and passionate veteran advisors. We are the father had spent time there during tial print run of about 3,500. Doug has Doug no longer knocks on doors. planning resource centre for the business owner,” Sheridan passionately concludes. the Boer War. That led Doug to visit reprinted the book twice under his Instead, he has become an archive area museums, and he was hooked. own imprint, Skookum Publications, magnet, with people bequeathing Still, when he came back to Canada selling some 9,500 copies in total. him their collections. Today, his vast to fi nd work, history didn’t motivate Okanagan Roots is just one of his inventory presents a problem. “I am his choice of location. He simply many titles which document the not an archivist,” he says; he knows wanted to live near a good ski hill, early miners, ranchers and orchard- where to locate specifi c photos, slides and fi gured Apex was the best. But ists who settled and developed BC. and interview tapes, but he’s look- while living on a rural property in the Rodeo Roots was compiled for the 50th ing for help cataloguing and stor- Green Mountain Road area, he soon anniversary of the Keremeos Elk ing these treasures—perhaps with became aware of the region’s rich Rodeo, while Penticton Now, Then and digital copies to protect the collec- local history. “Some of the old-timers Way Back When provides a 100-year tion against loss. —Dawn Renaud 205 - 1180 Sunset Drive, Kelowna, BC 250.869.1451 PHOTO BY DAWN RENAUD Your PSG Team from left to right: Greg Carter, Dustin Serviss, Evan Marble, Devin Beatty, Rusty Bracken, Doug Deschner, Brent Peacock, Allan Hryniuk and Grant Sheridan. www.peacocksheridan.com 12 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com ADVERTISEMENT 2013 Wealth Management Team The Peacock Sheridan Group has an experienced team of planning professionals specializing in business owners and dental/medical professionals.

205 - 1180 Sunset Drive, Kelowna, BC

Your PSG Team from left to right: Greg Carter, Dustin Serviss, Evan Marble, Devin Beatty, Rusty 250.869.1451 Bracken, Doug Deschner, Brent Peacock, Allan Hryniuk and Grant Sheridan. www.peacocksheridan.com culturista around his ruddy cheeks, transform- we’re thrilled ing him for brief second into the Chocolate fondue around a fl esh burned corpse of Mcgee calling campfi re is one highlight of out from the inferno to thank his to be making Selah Outdoor Explorations’ friend for fi nally heating him up. starlit snowshoe tours on “Mom! Mom!” my daughter shakes Crystal Mountain. my arm, snapping me out of the reverie. “Can I please lick my plate?” such an impact. Chocolate fondue in an intoxicating addition to suspense-fi lled poetry West Kelowna: 1070 Stevens Rd. (250) 769-9495 Kelowna: 1790 Springfield Rd. (250) 861-6191 and although I know they’ve all downed a lava fl ow of sugary fuel, I check my other two children to make sure they haven’t frozen like Mcgee. Next we gather around a forest pine tree and decorate it with lit candles, while singing songs that take me back to my youth. Laurie recounts a poem called the Walker of the Snow. It gives us the shivers (in a good way) as we pack up to head further into the night. We enter a great aren’t you white fi eld and decide to try calling out for coyotes. The adults and children whoop and howl then we stand Why in here? in silence to see if they bark back. I sneak to the side and do a couple

com Plus our otHer ice sport—curling VALLEY BUSINESS STORIES TOLD BY THE OkanaganLife. owl hoots too, just in case. We meet PEOPLE BEHIND THEM Okanagan LifeMAY 2012 Spirit of winter January-February 2012 2012 edition A SPECIAL another traveller from the past, then PROMOTIONAL by Gillianne Richards ISSUE Here’s to trample down a long icy trail and 2012 the winners Snowshoe trek to cultural revelation Hockey Valley BestRESTAURANTS ﬁ nally ﬁ nd warmth and washrooms 18th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards Tourism waiting for us back at the ski lodge. dynamo TOTA CEO Glenn Mandziuk PM40028474 PM40028474

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I’m deep in the woods, in the dark, Outdoor Explorations. Turns out Explorations isn’t a standard tourism On the way home my kids talk 3.95 Environmentalists Top Community Lawyers 1 Progress 2009 OKANAGAN LIFE John & Mary Theberge The Inside Story Jan-Feb 2012 3.95 Progress 2012

www.okanaganlife.com www.okanaganlife.com May 2012 3.95 with my three young children trudg- we’re in for a four-hour wild and outfi t, they have a holistic approach about how they’ll never forget this OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com ing through huge drifts of snow as whimsical snowshoe trek fi lled with to their trips that blends discovering night. My only regret is that I didn’t Okanagan Okanagan LifeJUNE 2012 LifeJULY-AUGUST 2012 SEPTEMBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 NOVEMBER - DECEMBER2012 we search for a way back home. A spontaneous poetry, singing and the hidden treasures of the land with fi nd a foreign friend to bring with Art, strange man emerges from the bush- skits on the history of the land. creative refl ections on our heritage. us. Exploring and surviving the Wine BESTof the Okanagan Glam The OKANAGAN es and stops us in our tracks. In a According to the man in the We start a fi re and huddle around winter woods with good people, types & big ordinary, idea twisted Scottish accent he describes woods, who claimed to be fur it, munching on strawberries we good food and storytelling around developers extraordinary Okanaganites

PM40028474 PM40028474 PM40028474 PM40028474 PM40028474 the gory details of a scalp-scraping trader Alexander Ross lost in a time drag across plates brimming with a campfi re is about the best gift of Libraries embrace the Hidden coast: Community roundup: Photo essay: Penticton’s How safe are our schools? New twist on networking: They’re back! All that glitters... digital revolution freight boat cruise reveals all Okanagan/Shuswap Subaru Ironman Canada Facing the threat of violence Giving Others a Boost Triumphant return of the sockeye Okanagan jewellery special October 2012 3.95 June 2012 3.95 November-December 2012 2012 November-December September 2012 3.95 July-August 2012 3.95 bear attack on his friend, Chief Short rift on the mountain (but looking chocolate. Jordie stands to face the Canadian culture you can offer. Legs. He points the way towards a suspiciously like one of our highly group. He clears his throat and does One of the best-read magazines—per capita—in North America fi re pit where other travellers have entertaining hosts), Trepanier Valley what any well-bred Canadian would CVC Audited Circulation been known to rest and dine on in Peachland is named after a skull do on a freezing cold night in the chocolate fondue. It’s just the begin- operation called “trepanning” that snow; he recites The Cremation of Sam ning of an adventure full of mystery, he preformed on one of his men. Mcgee. In case you forget (as I had) the It’s the way we put them together history and Canadian culture. Alexander (Jordie) relives the event classic poem recounts a poor soul that sets us apart We’re on Crystal Mountain with and returns to the dark. We hike from America who tried to tough it snowshoes strapped to our feet further and fi nd the campfi re pit. out in the Yukon but couldn’t beat and cough candies tucked in our The name of this exploration is the winter weather. After freezing to

pockets, surrounded by about 30 the Starlight Snowshoe Hike and death he is cremated by his buddy in Celebrating YEARS other brave souls who signed up Fondue Tour, so the chocolate fondue the hull of an abandoned boat. Jordie 25 years of for what I thought was a simple and sky above fi lled with billions tells the story with such fervour and jaunt in the woods. Our hosts are of beautiful stars are the only two delight I swear the fl ames of the successful Jordie and Laurie Bowen of Selah things that aren’t a surprise. Selah fi re rise higher, the smoke swirling publishing [email protected] • 250.861.5399 www.okanaganlife.com

LARGE PHOTO BY GILLIANNE RICHARDS; INSET PHOTO CONTRIBUTED PHOTO BY GILLIANNE RICHARDS 14 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 15 around his ruddy cheeks, transform- we’re thrilled ing him for brief second into the fl esh burned corpse of Mcgee calling out from the inferno to thank his to be making friend for fi nally heating him up. “Mom! Mom!” my daughter shakes my arm, snapping me out of the reverie. “Can I please lick my plate?” such an impact. Chocolate fondue in an intoxicating addition to suspense-fi lled poetry West Kelowna: 1070 Stevens Rd. (250) 769-9495 Kelowna: 1790 Springfield Rd. (250) 861-6191 and although I know they’ve all downed a lava fl ow of sugary fuel, I check my other two children to make sure they haven’t frozen like Mcgee. Next we gather around a forest pine tree and decorate it with lit candles, while singing songs that take me back to my youth. Laurie recounts a poem called the Walker of the Snow. It gives us the shivers (in a good way) as we pack up to head further into the night. We enter a great aren’t you white fi eld and decide to try calling out for coyotes. The adults and children whoop and howl then we stand Why in here? in silence to see if they bark back. I sneak to the side and do a couple

com Plus our otHer ice sport—curling VALLEY BUSINESS STORIES TOLD BY THE OkanaganLife. owl hoots too, just in case. We meet PEOPLE BEHIND THEM Okanagan LifeMAY 2012 January-February 2012

2012 edition A SPECIAL another traveller from the past, then PROMOTIONAL ISSUE Here’s to trample down a long icy trail and 2012 the winners Hockey Valley BestRESTAURANTS ﬁ nally ﬁ nd warmth and washrooms 18th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards Tourism waiting for us back at the ski lodge. dynamo TOTA CEO Glenn Mandziuk PM40028474 PM40028474

PM40028474

On the way home my kids talk 3.95 Environmentalists Top Community Lawyers 1 Progress 2009 OKANAGAN LIFE John & Mary Theberge The Inside Story Jan-Feb 2012 3.95 Progress 2012

www.okanaganlife.com www.okanaganlife.com May 2012 3.95 about how they’ll never forget this OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com OkanaganLife.com night. My only regret is that I didn’t Okanagan Okanagan LifeJUNE 2012 LifeJULY-AUGUST 2012 SEPTEMBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 NOVEMBER - DECEMBER2012 ﬁ nd a foreign friend to bring with Art, us. Exploring and surviving the Wine BESTof the Okanagan Glam The OKANAGAN winter woods with good people, types & big ordinary, idea good food and storytelling around developers extraordinary Okanaganites

PM40028474 PM40028474 PM40028474 PM40028474 PM40028474 a campﬁ re is about the best gift of Libraries embrace the Hidden coast: Community roundup: Photo essay: Penticton’s How safe are our schools? New twist on networking: They’re back! All that glitters... digital revolution freight boat cruise reveals all Okanagan/Shuswap Subaru Ironman Canada Facing the threat of violence Giving Others a Boost Triumphant return of the sockeye Okanagan jewellery special October 2012 3.95 June 2012 3.95 November-December 2012 2012 November-December September 2012 3.95 July-August 2012 3.95 Canadian culture you can offer. One of the best-read magazines—per capita—in North America CVC Audited Circulation It’s the way we put them together that sets us apart

Celebrating YEARS 25 years of successful publishing [email protected] • 250.861.5399 www.okanaganlife.com

PHOTO BY GILLIANNE RICHARDS okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 15 By Patti Shales Lefkos

Global Action participant Keiten Brown learning Masai culture from Milton, a Masai warrior.

PHOTO BY SUE EGAN Inspiration from the globe- trotting adventures of local leaders who personify generosity of spirit Global Citizenship

When Roger Perry returned home Just the basics life changing motivational expe- a few days before Christmas rience similar to Roger’s. and saw the pile of gifts for In Canada it’s easy to take the basics My husband and I were disturbed his grandchildren under the for granted. We turn on the tap by the discrepancies between our tree, he felt utter despair. and expect clean drinking water, life in Canada and what we wit- “The children we saw had so hot water for showers, toilets that nessed in Tibet and Nepal. Though little and we had so much,” he says. ﬂ ush and water for our lawns. We there are many international NGOs On a fact-finding mission in can visit our family doctor, walk- working in there—particularly in Ethiopia, Roger, who is the district in clinic or hospital emergency the Khumbu (Everest) region—so Rotary Foundation chair and a mem- room, present our Care Card and much more remains to be done. ber of the Rotary Club of Kalamalka be helped by trained physicians (Vernon), was asked by the driver if and nurses. Well-equipped schools “The children we he wanted to visit the local school. staffed with educated teachers and When he stepped inside and his support staff are typical. We expect saw had so little and eyes adjusted to the gloom, he dis- libraries to be stocked not only with covered children sitting on long hard-copy traditional resources but we had so much.” benches—no pens, no books, just also with state of the art technol- one teacher and an old blackboard. ogy. Myriad opportunities for post It got me thinking: Does the After receiving permission, he secondary education and job skills generosity Okanaganites show and his colleagues gave each stu- training are considered the norm. in support of local causes extend dent a pencil and scribbler. “You This is not the case in many other past regional boundaries? should have seen their faces. It areas of the planet. More than 80 Judge for yourself. The stories was a look I will never forget. per cent of the world’s population that follow are a mere sampling of They were so grateful for such lives in developing countries, where the Okanagan people and projects a little gesture,” says Roger. water, health care, education and selﬂ essly dedicated to making a dif- “That trip changed my life.” other basics are never a sure thing. ference globally. The inspirational Roger continues to be a tire- This glaring discrepancy has catalyst, whether solely a matter of less leader in local and inter- led many to follow their hearts religion, strictly a sense of humanity, national Rotary projects. and take action, often after a or both, manifests in various forms.

PHOTO BY CONTRIBUTED okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 17 Below: Global Action Wise words for over- participant Chris Leverman Political disaster with Masai warrior Milton. seas volunteers from Right: Colleen Saddler and Facing: (Left to right) program got on board in 2005 On Ouch, owner of Vernon’s Rice Okanagan students team distributing bags of school Teacher Sue Egan and with annual three-week visits. Box Asian Takeout, has held three supplies to students and families students James Zarlenga, Half a world away, the 2004 Boxing annual Wok-a-Thons to raise funds Live in the moment. Don’t view at Ray Kaw Htoo Burmese Bailey Limb and Eric Byram Day tsunami in Asia was one of the for the Cambodian Support Group your experience through a lens. Put migrant school, Thailand. with the Me to We banner. deadliest natural disasters in recorded and Vernon Jubilee Hospital. down the camera and take it all in.

history. Indonesia was hardest hit, fol- On’s father Ath, a victim of Do your research. Learn about his- lowed by Sri Lanka, India and Thailand. Cambodia’s murderous Khmer Rouge tory and culture beforehand. Don’t Peter and Cavelle Dove, Canadians regime, worked in the fi elds at gun- judge. Learn how locals feel about living in Thailand, have been direc- point. As the regime collapsed in 1979, issues in their own culture. tors of Imagine Thailand since 2002, a Ath escaped to Thailand, married and Be a partner. Go to work with ministry of the Pentecostal Assemblies had four children. After nine years in the locals, not for them. of Canada. Colleen Saddler, a member a refugee camp, constantly threatened at Westbank’s Emmanuel Church, got by war-zone dangers, the family was Take time. Enjoy every person you meet. involved through Pastor Derek Lee and referred to Canada through UN chan- his wife Iris, who went to Thailand nels, then by Canadian immigration Be effi cient. Don’t get behind in your laundry. Wash clothing in the to work with Imagine Thailand in to the Cambodian Support Group. morning so it has all day to dry. the Thai-Burma border region. Within two weeks All Saints Anglican For her fi rst visit Colleen raised funds Church and community members Look up. Turn off your fl ashlight and through private donations and the corpo- responded with a sponsorship offer, wonder at the stars…and the lightning. rate matching plan of Investors Group— welcoming the refugees to Vernon. Be patient. Don’t expect others at home enough to provide water fi ltration sys- The annual non-stop-cook- to fully understand your experience. Give tems for two schools. “The water changed ing Wok-a-Thon is one family’s yourself time to adjust to life back home their life at school,” says Colleen. “They way of paying it forward. before you can tell your stories. What’s can focus on their studies and not get important is that YOU made a difference. sores caused from river bathing.” Formative years Enjoy nature. Realize the therapeutic After working as part of a team power of physical activity outside. to run a kids’ camp, she was hooked. Vernon’s Joel Hayhoe, project man- Colleen now volunteers as a book- ager of Bring Your Own Bike, Embrace your inner beauty….includ- keeper and administrator for the spent his childhood travelling ing sweat, dirt and smell. Leave North Lees, who work part-time for Imagine with his parents who founded the American standards at home. Don’t pack simply to look or smell good. Thailand, fundraising and put- Future Vision Ministry (FVM). Leaving a legacy often during those times we begin Hurricanes and ting together outreach teams. “A few years ago while cycling Pack practical clothing. Invest in to think about what it is we’re doing a good hat, shorts and pants with For Summerland freelance writer with our lives and more precisely, tsunamis lots of pockets; put comfort fi rst. Don’t stress about appearances. Rick Cogbill, the stimulus was a visit what are we going to leave behind?” Hurricane Mitch hit Nicaragua in

to Mozambique with his daughter At that moment, Rick, a licensed 1999. Debbie Bachman travelled there And fi nally, remember: It’s (who was working as a nurse for automotive mechanic, decided to start from Vernon with a medical relief easier to smile than frown. South Africa Ministries) followed Mercy Tech Mission, an organiza- team. When she returned home, she by an emergency trip to a cardiac tion that provides opportunities for put together a team that headed back And from the adults care unit in Alberta. Empathy and seasoned trades people to go to Third in 2001 to help build orphanages and a sense of mortality collided. World countries and teach their trade medical clinics. Groups working under “If you think you’re too small to During the month-long African to the locals. “We come as guests to the auspices of the Nicaragua Fuente make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito.” —African visit Rick helped local SAM staff their culture,” says Rick, “and make a de Vida Society continue to go. Proverb shared by John Baigent repair broken-down vehicles. In point of looking for ways to make our Students from Clarence Fulton rural Mozambique, trades educa- knowledge practical in their situation.” Secondary School’s Global Education “Leave your expectations at home. tion is hard to fi nd and fi nancially Go with the mentality of learn- out of reach for most. “Although ing, not teaching.” —Joel Hayhoe they were willing workers, they “We wanted to establish relationships “If trusted and challenged, 16-year- lacked even the most basic skills old students are capable of amaz- training necessary for the job. They with people, recognizing that we ourselves ing things.” — Murray Sasges asked me to come back,” says Rick. would not just be serving to feel good “Never expect anything to go the way Later, during his hospital stay, he you planned (especially in the African found the book Axioms by Bill Hybels. about ourselves, but that we would see bush!) and always expect the end The chapter entitled What Life Are You result will be bigger than you could Waiting For? caught his attention. “It’s a genuine symbiotic relationship.” possibly imagine.” — Rick Cogbill

PHOTOS BY SUE EGAN AND CONTRIBUTED PHOTO BY BARRY HODGINS 18 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com Political disaster Wise words for over- seas volunteers from program got on board in 2005 On Ouch, owner of Vernon’s Rice Okanagan students with annual three-week visits. Box Asian Takeout, has held three Half a world away, the 2004 Boxing annual Wok-a-Thons to raise funds Live in the moment. Don’t view Day tsunami in Asia was one of the for the Cambodian Support Group your experience through a lens. Put deadliest natural disasters in recorded and Vernon Jubilee Hospital. down the camera and take it all in. history. Indonesia was hardest hit, fol- On’s father Ath, a victim of Do your research. Learn about his- lowed by Sri Lanka, India and Thailand. Cambodia’s murderous Khmer Rouge tory and culture beforehand. Don’t Peter and Cavelle Dove, Canadians regime, worked in the fi elds at gun- judge. Learn how locals feel about living in Thailand, have been direc- point. As the regime collapsed in 1979, issues in their own culture. tors of Imagine Thailand since 2002, a Ath escaped to Thailand, married and Be a partner. Go to work with ministry of the Pentecostal Assemblies had four children. After nine years in the locals, not for them. of Canada. Colleen Saddler, a member a refugee camp, constantly threatened at Westbank’s Emmanuel Church, got by war-zone dangers, the family was Take time. Enjoy every person you meet. involved through Pastor Derek Lee and referred to Canada through UN chan- his wife Iris, who went to Thailand nels, then by Canadian immigration Be effi cient. Don’t get behind in your laundry. Wash clothing in the to work with Imagine Thailand in to the Cambodian Support Group. morning so it has all day to dry. the Thai-Burma border region. Within two weeks All Saints Anglican For her fi rst visit Colleen raised funds Church and community members Look up. Turn off your fl ashlight and through private donations and the corpo- responded with a sponsorship offer, wonder at the stars…and the lightning. rate matching plan of Investors Group— welcoming the refugees to Vernon. Be patient. Don’t expect others at home enough to provide water fi ltration sys- The annual non-stop-cook- to fully understand your experience. Give tems for two schools. “The water changed ing Wok-a-Thon is one family’s yourself time to adjust to life back home their life at school,” says Colleen. “They way of paying it forward. before you can tell your stories. What’s can focus on their studies and not get important is that YOU made a difference. sores caused from river bathing.” Formative years Enjoy nature. Realize the therapeutic After working as part of a team power of physical activity outside. to run a kids’ camp, she was hooked. Vernon’s Joel Hayhoe, project man- Colleen now volunteers as a book- ager of Bring Your Own Bike, Embrace your inner beauty….includ- keeper and administrator for the spent his childhood travelling ing sweat, dirt and smell. Leave North Lees, who work part-time for Imagine with his parents who founded the American standards at home. Don’t pack simply to look or smell good. Thailand, fundraising and put- Future Vision Ministry (FVM). ting together outreach teams. “A few years ago while cycling Pack practical clothing. Invest in a good hat, shorts and pants with lots of pockets; put comfort fi rst. Don’t stress about appearances.

And ﬁ nally, remember: It’s easier to smile than frown.

And from the adults

“If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito.” —African Proverb shared by John Baigent

“Leave your expectations at home. Go with the mentality of learning, not teaching.” —Joel Hayhoe

“If trusted and challenged, 16-year- old students are capable of amazing things.” — Murray Sasges

“Never expect anything to go the way you planned (especially in the African bush!) and always expect the end result will be bigger than you could possibly imagine.” — Rick Cogbill

PHOTO BY BARRY HODGINS To join in the action Students and through the US, I discovered the intimate nity that has driven Clarence Fulton Secondary teacher Mercy Tech Mission teachers lead www.mercytechmission.com way cycling can connect us with people Murray Sasges to offer the Global Education term and places,” says Joel. “Having travelled the way option to Grade 11 students. “I want to break open the Nicaragua Fuente de Vida Society throughout Africa with my family and eyes and hearts of students to understand the inter- www.nicaraguafuentedevida.wordpress.com working with FVM Malawi more recent- Never underestimate the power of connectedness of the world we live in,” he says. ly, I decided to put the two together. I use youthful enthusiasm ﬁ red by pas- Global Education’s connection with Fuente de Vida has Facing page Bring Your Own Bike Sidebar: Ethiopian cycling ecotourism as a way to introduce sionate educators. Vernon high school led to nine years of three-week student work programs. www.bringyourownbike.ca schools old and new. people to Malawi. I volunteered through teachers Sue Egan and Murray Sasges Through Debbie Bachman, Murray found Casa Hogar Top: Ethiopian The Rice Box www.thericebox.com FVM to establish a bike route through are examples of what is possible. Orphanage, which houses Nicaraguans left homeless by woman at water hole. Southern Malawi and trained local peo- A social studies and computer the 1995 hurricane. Projects include building a chicken Bottom: Welcoming Global Action, Vernon Secondary ple as tour guides and bike mechanics.” teacher at Vernon Secondary School, barn, cattle corral, milking parlour and a kilometer of committee at opening School www.sd22.bc.ca/PDFs/second- Enderby’s John Baigent was a CUSO Sue Egan was inspired by Craig concrete fencing to protect ﬁ elds from wild animals. of new Ethiopian school. ary/2012/VssGlobalAction.pdf volunteer in Ghana in the early 1960s. Keilburger, co-founder of Free The

Imagine Thailand www.imaginethailand.org Then in 1988, while a partner in a Children and the Me to We program. Vancouver law ﬁ rm, he took a sabbati- “Giving back by global vol- Partners in the Horn of Africa cal in Ethiopia, working for the World unteering is a passion of mine. www.partnersinthehorn.org University Service of Canada. He fell in I wanted to combine my love of love with the Ethiopian people, 85 mil- teaching with that passion,” says Global Education, Clarence Fulton lion living in a country the area of BC. Sue. “I believe youth can make a Secondary,Vernon www.sd22.bc.ca/forms/ student/globalEd_application.pdf “They are a charming, civilized people,” difference and that every child says John. “Orthodox Christians and The North Okanagan group, mod- has the right to an education.” North Okanagan Valley Gleaner Muslims get along. People are civil and eled after the Oliver project, is based in In August 2011 Sue led 20 Vernon Society www.novgleaners.org respect each other and value human Lavington, and averages ﬁ ve to six mil- Secondary students to the Masai friendship. There is no TV. Instead fami- lion servings of donated food per year. Mara region of Kenya to help build a Coldstream Christian Church lies visit each other in the evenings.” Coldstream Christian Church pas- school classroom as part of a project www.coldstreamchristianchurch.ca After moving to the Okanagan overseen by Me to We. Students Bailey Rotary Club of Kalamalka, Vernon 20 years ago, John now divides his Limb and James Zarlenga, both in www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/Home.aspx?cid=818 time between Enderby and his sec- “I want to break open Grade 12, and Eric Byram, Grade 10, ond home in Ethiopia. He started were part of the adventure that start- Sambhav Nepal www.sambhavnepal.org Partners in the Horn of Africa in 2001, the eyes and hearts of ed with a Me to We day in Vancouver. a non-denominational organization What did they learn from travel- focused on infrastructure improve- students to understand ling 32 hours to help build a school? ment, health and welfare and women’s the interconnectedness “For the present it made me poverty in more remote areas of the realize what we have in Canada. I country often ignored by other NGOs. of the world we live in.” don’t leave the water running any- Partners in the Horn of Africa more,” says Bailey. “For the future, requires their African partner, usually an I want to get involved with Me To Ethiopian charity or village, to contrib- tor David Hockley and his congrega- We in Kenya for a period of time.” ute 15 to 20 per cent of the project costs. tion were looking for an international James agrees. For him the best part What about poverty in Canada? On his second trip to Ethiopia, organization with which they could of the trip was working alongside Some of the organizations featured here are involved in proj- Roger Perry and the Rotary Club be meaningfully involved. “We wanted locals. Volunteer work might be in ects to assist those in poverty at home. However, many mention of Kalamalka partnered with to establish relationships with people, his future. “The experience changed that the poor in Canada are still better off than the poor in John to build new schools. recognizing that we ourselves would me a lot as a person. The toughest developing countries. “There is no backup for these people,” not just be serving to feel good about part was leaving. It went too fast. I says Roger Perry. “If they don’t earn any money the whole fam- Bright ideas ourselves, but that we would see a wanted to get more done,” he says. ily goes hungry. There is no social network to fall back on.” genuine symbiotic relationship.” “Everything I do will be a little As an inner city school principal in Vancouver, I Gordon Huston, president of the North David explains that a Haitian stu- bit different now that my eyes have seen the shameful discrepancies that exist in a Okanagan Valley Gleaner Society, dent intern of theirs went to Haiti are open to what’s happening in city that has some of the poorest urban neighbour- knew a good idea when he saw one. to begin a mission called Heart for the rest of the world,” says Eric. hoods in Canada—and some of the wealthiest. The original Okanagan Gleaners was Home Haiti to address both physical Sue feels the students gained a Even so, it is heart wrenching to witness conditions in Above: Bailey Limb founded in Oliver in 1994 to produce and spiritual needs. The organiza- different perspective on life. “The developing countries. Supported by Sambhav Nepal and trek- (L) and Hayley Silcocks food for the hungry of the world. tion has now acquired 12 acres that sense of community in Kenya is king company Ace the Himalaya, my husband and I plan to (R), Grade 12 students Volunteers take vegetables that would are being turned into a campus where so powerful. There they look after return to a village outside the well-served Khumbu region of from Vernon Secondary normally be wasted and turn them Haitians will be trained in agricul- each other. Here, we often don’t Nepal to discover what villagers would like help with. We hope School's Global Action into dry soup mixes that are sent to ture, business, technology and other know our neighbours,” she says. to join the growing number of individuals and organizations at the school building places like Africa and North Korea. job skills. It also houses a church. It’s that sense of commu- that see opportunities for humanity beyond our borders. site in Kenya.

SIDEBAR PHOTOS BY ROGER PERRY PHOTO BY SUE EGAN okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 21 Students and nity that has driven Clarence Fulton Secondary teacher teachers lead Murray Sasges to offer the Global Education term the way option to Grade 11 students. “I want to break open the eyes and hearts of students to understand the inter- Never underestimate the power of connectedness of the world we live in,” he says. youthful enthusiasm ﬁ red by pas- Global Education’s connection with Fuente de Vida has Facing page Sidebar: Ethiopian sionate educators. Vernon high school led to nine years of three-week student work programs. schools old and new. teachers Sue Egan and Murray Sasges Through Debbie Bachman, Murray found Casa Hogar Top: Ethiopian are examples of what is possible. Orphanage, which houses Nicaraguans left homeless by woman at water hole. A social studies and computer the 1995 hurricane. Projects include building a chicken Bottom: Welcoming teacher at Vernon Secondary School, barn, cattle corral, milking parlour and a kilometer of committee at opening Sue Egan was inspired by Craig concrete fencing to protect ﬁ elds from wild animals. of new Ethiopian school. Keilburger, co-founder of Free The Children and the Me to We program. “Giving back by global vol- unteering is a passion of mine. I wanted to combine my love of teaching with that passion,” says Sue. “I believe youth can make a difference and that every child has the right to an education.” In August 2011 Sue led 20 Vernon Secondary students to the Masai Mara region of Kenya to help build a school classroom as part of a project overseen by Me to We. Students Bailey Limb and James Zarlenga, both in Grade 12, and Eric Byram, Grade 10, were part of the adventure that started with a Me to We day in Vancouver. What did they learn from travelling 32 hours to help build a school? “For the present it made me realize what we have in Canada. I don’t leave the water running any- more,” says Bailey. “For the future, I want to get involved with Me To We in Kenya for a period of time.” James agrees. For him the best part What about poverty in Canada? of the trip was working alongside Some of the organizations featured here are involved in proj- locals. Volunteer work might be in ects to assist those in poverty at home. However, many mention his future. “The experience changed that the poor in Canada are still better off than the poor in me a lot as a person. The toughest developing countries. “There is no backup for these people,” part was leaving. It went too fast. I says Roger Perry. “If they don’t earn any money the whole fam- wanted to get more done,” he says. ily goes hungry. There is no social network to fall back on.” “Everything I do will be a little As an inner city school principal in Vancouver, I bit different now that my eyes have seen the shameful discrepancies that exist in a are open to what’s happening in city that has some of the poorest urban neighbour- the rest of the world,” says Eric. hoods in Canada—and some of the wealthiest. Sue feels the students gained a Even so, it is heart wrenching to witness conditions in Above: Bailey Limb different perspective on life. “The developing countries. Supported by Sambhav Nepal and trek- (L) and Hayley Silcocks sense of community in Kenya is king company Ace the Himalaya, my husband and I plan to (R), Grade 12 students so powerful. There they look after return to a village outside the well-served Khumbu region of from Vernon Secondary each other. Here, we often don’t Nepal to discover what villagers would like help with. We hope School's Global Action know our neighbours,” she says. to join the growing number of individuals and organizations at the school building It’s that sense of commu- that see opportunities for humanity beyond our borders. site in Kenya.

PHOTO BY SUE EGAN okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 21 By Barbara Sutherland addiction The clean cut young man doesn’t other mothers she’s talked with. look up from his seat in the wait- The tears likely cover a spectrum ing room at Crossroads Treatment of emotions: fear, shame, or Centre in Kelowna. Neither does guilt. But there are tears of relief the woman I take to be his moth- and hope as well. “Her son is er. A large suitcase leans on his still alive, and she’s hoping this legs. Clearly, he’s come to stay a time the treatment may stick.” while; probably for Crossroads’ 42-day residential addiction treat- frontline suffering... ment program. A staff member approaches, clipboard in hand, Typically, families are on the mother and son embrace quickly front line of suffering when a and she hurries out the door. loved one gets trapped by addic- I wonder what’s going through tion. Dale Wagner is Crossroads’ that mother’s head and heart. director of clinical services. He’s How does it feel to leave a loved been working in addictions coun- one in addiction treatment? A selling for two decades, includ- few minutes later, I ask Shelley ing nine years in Vancouver’s Gilmore, executive director of notorious Downtown Eastside. Crossroads, to speculate. “She “Addiction is a progressively may still be sitting in her car cry- isolating relationship with a sub- ing,” says Shelley, reflecting on stance. There are people around,

Photo by Doug Farrow

Drugs, alchohol, sex—addiction ruins lives. Families suffer right along with addicts. Here’s where to get help. By Barbara Sutherland addiction

Drugs, alchohol, sex—addiction ruins lives. Families suffer right along with addicts. Here’s where to get help. “Addiction is a progressively but it’s less about being in relationship with them; it’s more about isolating relationship with a having a common relationship with the substance,” Dale explains, “So substance. There are people my (the addict’s) world becomes very narrow, and of course it’s around, but it’s less about being around the substance use. I give up other healthy activities in my Below: in a relationship with them; it’s life, like bowling or softball—those Shelley Gilmore, activities no longer compete with executive director of more about having a common my drinking, so I tend to spend Crossroads Treatment all of my evenings at the pub.” Centre in Kelowna. relationship with the substance” Dale says families are part of that, too. “Sometime, in the midst of in the midst of our addiction, we drive our family away because they’re tired of being a mark. They’re tired of excuses, tired of our unreliability, tired of lending us money that we’re not going to pay back. So they distance from us because it’s too painful to be close.” Shelley herself has firsthand Left: Jessie Flynn and experience with that pain, and Jackie Douglas with it’s one of the reasons she joined Faith the Frog from the Crossroads team. “I grew up their book Hope. in a family where my father was Below: Peter Lees from Karis Support Society. an alcoholic. Our family was so ripped apart by alcoholism,” she shares. “If I can come in here and It is a physically threatening lection, “I saw my daughter down there one day and positively affect one other fam- place, says Dale. “Women are often called out her name. When she looked at me she ran.” ily and one other dad that’s going victimized or engaged in the sex to go back and be the person he trade, which means they’re victim- and then came Hope... should be for the children in his ized in terms of their trade but also family, then I’ve done a good job.” because they’re on the street and That heartbreaking moment gave Jackie the incentive to That’s the goal of addic- they’re vulnerable. Drug dealing change. With the help of Insite, Vancouver’s newly opened tions treatment—“to move a becomes rampant, housing unstable, supervised injection site, she started the long and diffi cult person from where they were signifi cant mental health diagnoses process of recovery. In the 10 years since, “I had a few when they came in to be able or life traumas remain unresolved, falls, but I tried really hard.” Her breakthrough came to engage in a healthy life.” so people’s compensating behaviours when she moved to Kelowna, to the New Opportunities Hope is a key motivator for are quite dysfunctional.” Housing for Women (NOW) Canada Alexandra Gardner Safe changing lives. Dale Wagner says costs eat up most of whatever social Centre for women and children. She found a recovery that without a sense of hope- assistance is available, so as Dale home with the non-profi t Karis Support Society fulness, it’s very difficult for says, “You can steal, you can deal, or and has been “clean” for the past four years. At people to engage in the process you can sell yourself to make do.” the age of 52, Jackie is dealing with health of change. That is true wherever Jackie Douglas landed in that issues, studying creative writing and work- the addict is on their journey. East Hastings world at the age ing to get her children back in her life. For many, Vancouver’s Downtown of 32. For 10 years, the last three As part of her recovery, Jackie decided Eastside is the dead end of the on the street, she says, “I got into to share a story she wrote early in her addiction road. It is reflected in every kind of drug. I ended up in a journey to recovery of how hope turned some pockets here in the Okanagan, coma. I ended up in hospital a lot. her life around. Along with fellow Karis too. People at this stage have lost I got beaten up and I got robbed. client, illustrator Jessie Flynn, she wove supports (families, jobs, communi- There was a part of me—I didn’t her story Hope into a charming picture ties), and are plunged into an envi- want to live. Until…” She pauses book for people of all ages. It is avail- ronment where more abuse happens. at a particularly painful recol- able through the Karis Support Society.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED 24 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com Left: Jessie Flynn and Jackie Douglas with Faith the Frog from their book Hope. Below: Peter Lees from Karis Support Society.

It is a physically threatening lection, “I saw my daughter down there one day and place, says Dale. “Women are often called out her name. When she looked at me she ran.” victimized or engaged in the sex trade, which means they’re victim- and then came Hope... ized in terms of their trade but also because they’re on the street and That heartbreaking moment gave Jackie the incentive to they’re vulnerable. Drug dealing change. With the help of Insite, Vancouver’s newly opened becomes rampant, housing unstable, supervised injection site, she started the long and diffi cult signifi cant mental health diagnoses process of recovery. In the 10 years since, “I had a few or life traumas remain unresolved, falls, but I tried really hard.” Her breakthrough came so people’s compensating behaviours when she moved to Kelowna, to the New Opportunities are quite dysfunctional.” Housing for Women (NOW) Canada Alexandra Gardner Safe costs eat up most of whatever social Centre for women and children. She found a recovery assistance is available, so as Dale home with the non-profi t Karis Support Society says, “You can steal, you can deal, or and has been “clean” for the past four years. At you can sell yourself to make do.” the age of 52, Jackie is dealing with health Jackie Douglas landed in that issues, studying creative writing and work- East Hastings world at the age ing to get her children back in her life. of 32. For 10 years, the last three As part of her recovery, Jackie decided on the street, she says, “I got into to share a story she wrote early in her every kind of drug. I ended up in a journey to recovery of how hope turned coma. I ended up in hospital a lot. her life around. Along with fellow Karis I got beaten up and I got robbed. client, illustrator Jessie Flynn, she wove There was a part of me—I didn’t her story Hope into a charming picture want to live. Until…” She pauses book for people of all ages. It is avail- at a particularly painful recol- able through the Karis Support Society.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED hitting rock bottom... ing it and staying on the same page as far as acts or positions or what-have-you.” Jackie had reached what most of us would think of as As a counsellor, Julie helps people rock bottom. Are all addicts destined to hit that point understand themselves. “If our actions are before they can start to turn their lives around? problematic we have to chase it back and Defi nitely not, according to Dale Wagner. The concept fi gure out what’s going on in our head. Why of “hitting rock bottom” depends on where you put the would we do that? Why would we think bottom. He places one hand on the table. “If the bottom that? Why would we want that? And when is at the table, and the person is up here,” he says, raising we fi gure that out we can get ahead of it.” his other hand, “then let’s put this on the table.” He slides a book under his hand, then adds another and another. How do you know it’s an addic- As professional counsellors, he says, “We can help tion and not just a normal sexual the person examine where they’re at and see if there’s appetite? According to Julie, the motivation for them to do something different. And if behaviour is addictive if: we do so successfully, we’ve essentially brought their bottom up to the present conversation, because now • It becomes compulsive. they’re ready to engage in some change process.” • It makes you feel bad. “A healthy sex life doesn’t make you feel bad. You’re the challenge of change... not regretting the things you’ve done or didn’t do, or who you did them with.” Often it’s a crisis related to the addiction that • You lose track of time doing the behav- What is sparks the motivation for change; an accident, the iour and spend too much time on it. loss of a job, an impaired driving charge, incarcera- sex • You’re preoccupied with tion, marriage breakup or other signifi cant loss. it—to the exclusion of other addiction? Why is it so hard for addicts to embrace the commitment things—to soothe yourself. to change—and then to make changes and stick to them? Facing page: • When you have too much, you say Look it up, and you’ll fi nd Shannon McCarthy oversees Interior Health’s commu- Sex addiction therapist addiction you’ll never overindulge again— Julie Walkinshaw. as many defi nitions as nity-based mental health and substance use services in the Below: Dale Wagner There are two types of addiction: sub- thing), it would be a lot of work to get but a pattern of use evolves. sources. For this article, Central Okanagan. “Any behaviour change is hard,” she says, describes how • You experience losses because stance addictions (covered above) into a relationship that involves intimacy we draw on the version “Imagine complying to a diet; completely changing the way motivational counselling and process addictions—compulsive, and shared vulnerability where you and of it: legal (marriage), employ- provided by Crossroads we eat.” Most people have tried that, with limited success. helps clients raise consequence-ignoring behaviour around the other person are both happy. ment (looking at it at work), “It’s very similar for an addict, in the sense that it (their their “rock bottom” and Treatment Centre: sex, pornography, gambling, video Online pornography is sited as a physical (hurting yourself). substance use) is a coping mechanism to stress or depression engage in change. games, shopping, and even work. contributing factor in much of Julie’s Julie Walkinshaw is a sex and rela- relationship counselling. “Spending an Addiction is a maladap- tionship therapist based in Vernon inordinate amount of time on the internet tive choice that one makes (LoveRelationshipsCounselling.com). looking at porn or fl irting or engaging in and has trouble managing. She says “Just like an addiction to alco- cyber sex—all of those sorts of things are Addiction is the continued hol, you can struggle with your sexual walking outside of your real relationship behaviour and want to change it.” with your spouse or partner.” She calls use of a mood altering According to Julie, people who have it cyber-fantasy and says it can really substance or behaviour been abused are at a higher risk. But mess up your brain. “If you’re looking despite adverse depen- the risk also extends to “those who have at images that sexually arouse you and dency consequences. been exposed to things they shouldn’t you’re pleasing yourself at the same time, see or hear.” That’s a real concern to there’s a direct connection between what The classic hallmarks of her considering how easily children you are using to please yourself, your today can access pornography. Early brain and what you’re seeing. It’s a loop. addiction include: impaired exposure normalizes the behaviour to It’s not broken and it’s all about you.” control over the substance/ the children, but it doesn’t emerge as a When you bring those choreographed, behaviour; preoccupa- problem until the child grows and fi nds fl owing and perfect images into the bed- tion with the substance/ it very diffi cult to connect intimately. room, Julie says, there’s trouble ahead. behavior; continued use Julie says there’s a big difference “Our expectations can become very despite consequences; and between sex and lovemaking. If you’ve skewed and we think our partner should only ever had sex without intimacy or look and act like that person and respond the refusal to acknowledge connection (you are either paying for like that person, and it becomes a real or inability to see this sex or arousing yourself or it’s a parallel problem especially if both aren’t watch- behaviour as problematic.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 27 hitting rock bottom...

Jackie had reached what most of us would think of as rock bottom. Are all addicts destined to hit that point before they can start to turn their lives around? Deﬁ nitely not, according to Dale Wagner. The concept of “hitting rock bottom” depends on where you put the bottom. He places one hand on the table. “If the bottom is at the table, and the person is up here,” he says, raising his other hand, “then let’s put this on the table.” He slides a book under his hand, then adds another and another. As professional counsellors, he says, “We can help the person examine where they’re at and see if there’s motivation for them to do something different. And if we do so successfully, we’ve essentially brought their bottom up to the present conversation, because now they’re ready to engage in some change process.” the challenge of change...

Often it’s a crisis related to the addiction that What is sparks the motivation for change; an accident, the loss of a job, an impaired driving charge, incarcera- tion, marriage breakup or other signifi cant loss. addiction? Why is it so hard for addicts to embrace the commitment to change—and then to make changes and stick to them? Facing page: Look it up, and you’ll fi nd Shannon McCarthy oversees Interior Health’s commu- Sex addiction therapist Julie Walkinshaw. as many defi nitions as nity-based mental health and substance use services in the Below: Dale Wagner sources. For this article, Central Okanagan. “Any behaviour change is hard,” she says, describes how we draw on the version “Imagine complying to a diet; completely changing the way motivational counselling provided by Crossroads we eat.” Most people have tried that, with limited success. helps clients raise “It’s very similar for an addict, in the sense that it (their their “rock bottom” and Treatment Centre: substance use) is a coping mechanism to stress or depression engage in change.

Addiction is a maladap- tive choice that one makes and has trouble managing. Addiction is the continued use of a mood altering substance or behaviour despite adverse depen- dency consequences.

The classic hallmarks of addiction include: impaired control over the substance/ behaviour; preoccupa- tion with the substance/ behavior; continued use despite consequences; and the refusal to acknowledge or inability to see this behaviour as problematic.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 27 “When you’re out Jessie adds, “Addiction is like a getting help... treatment don’t really need it. For dark shadow. It had you sucked in for Help lines many, day-program counselling there in addiction, so long, it has this false personality In the Central Okanagan, Interior while still being exposed to everyday of its own where it’s kind of help- • Alcohol & Drug Info Health (IH) provides a free walk-in stresses is most benefi cial. Clients all the people, the ing you—like cigarettes. When I see 1.800.663.1441 (no appointment required) assess- who access residential treatment will people smoking those really yummy ment and referral service every need follow-up counselling—usu- ‘friends,’ they’re all smelling cigarettes, I feel tempta- weekday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ally involving family as well. • Problem Gambling fake. They’re just tion, but then I go and I play back its health centre on Ellis Street in If you’re looking for profes- the tape and think about where that 1.888.795.6111 Kelowna. Every year, about 1,500 sional counselling, Jim Browne there for your drugs would put me again. It would put people of all ages who are concerned of the BC Association of Clinical me in lack of money and my lungs • Mental Health Info about their own (or a family mem- Counsellors advises that you look or your body or would turn to crap and I would 1.800.661.2121 ber’s) substance use get on-the-spot for someone who has “at least stink. So you have to play that tape. assessment and access to a variety Master’s level counselling qualifi ca- If you don’t, you’re screwed. You’ll of publicly funded services—from tion, (and is) accountable within a whatever you have” • BC Crisis Line just pick it up. And that’s what I’ve counselling to withdrawal man- framework of ethical and practice or anxiety or whatever it might be. learnt. It’s the same with crystal 1.800.784.2433 agement to residential treatment. do they have a physician available; do standard, and public protection.” It has become part of their lifestyle,” meth – you’ve got to go back and In addition, IH provides prevention they have graduate-level counselling Hypnotherapy is another option says Shannon. As a recovering addict, picture yourself where you were. • Kids Help Phone initiatives, as well as youth addiction support; and are they following the BC for people trying to understand and “You have to mindfully, every day, “No bad day in recovery can com- 1.800.668.6868 workers in schools, needle exchange, Ministry of Health Adult Residential change their behaviour. As a clini- make the decision that you’re going pare to a life of addiction,” says pregnancy outreach, opioid replace- Treatment Standards (available online).” cal hypnotherapist, Carole Fawcett of to do something different. You have Jessie. “You’re still happy, you’ve ment therapy and street based care. When you just want answers, or Vernon helps her clients “to achieve • Youth Crisis Hotline to build in other coping mechanisms; still got a roof over your head, you Crossroads provides a six-week you’re ready to seek care, Shannon deep levels of relaxation. Deep relax- you have to build in other social still have people. When you’re out 1.800.448.4663 residential treatment program to 1,500 recommends speaking to your fam- ation allows access to the subcon- circles. If 30 per cent of your time there in addiction, all the people, men and women every year; detox and ily physician. He or she will guide scious mind and can help with many every day was around trying to fi nd the ‘friends,’ they’re all fake. They’re • BC NurseLine withdrawal management (7 to 10 days and refer you to the services you issues; fears, phobias, anxiety, pain the substance or buying the substance just there for your drugs or your 1.866.215.4700 duration) to 250 clients per year; as well need while keeping your total health management, smoking cessation, or using the substance, you have to body or whatever you have. as day counselling programs to several picture in view, and be able to follow weight loss and stress management.” fi ll the time with something else.” “Any addiction is not cool – even hundred individuals and families. With you over the long term—something • Suicide Hotline food addiction; it’s not cool. And 59 residential spaces, 36 of them fund- vital to your recovery. Shannon also successful results? more than a bad habit... you want to get away from that, so 1.800.SUICIDE (784.2433) ed by the BC government, Crossroads is recommends the website HereToHelp. you’re grabbing for hope, you’re grab- the largest addictions treatment facility bc.ca as an excellent online resource How successful is addiction treat- “Then there’s the neurobiology of bing for comfort, you’re grabbing • TTY Distress Line in the Interior. But it is not the only one. for addicts and their loved ones. ment? Dale Wagner measures recovery the brain,” she continues, “There’s for support wherever you can get 1.866.872.0113 Across BC, a wide variety of ser- Dale and Shannon agree a lot success as a process rather than a des- evidence to support that addiction it and I found it in Karis and now vices are available to people with of addicts who seek out residential tination. “From a harm reduction actually does change the chemistry of I fi nd it in myself.” To view Jessie’s addictions and their loved ones; pro- perspective, any progression toward your brain. There are those pathways artwork, go to www.Facebook.com/ fessional counsellors, psychiatrists, an ideal of not being harmed by in the brain that have kind of been JessieFlynnPencilCrayonArt. youth residential care, aboriginal “Deep relaxation your substance use is ‘successful.’ trained. So it takes time, and it can focused treatment, 12-step peer sup- allows access to Some people want to measure that be a relapsing condition – like any port groups in many communi- in black and white—all or nothing. other health condition. You could ties, not-for-profi t outreach groups, the subconscious But the truth is, if I’ve gone from do well for a while and then stress residential treatment programs and sharing needles to using my own; happens and there is a relapse.” more. A search on British Columbia’s mind and can help to not using needles, but smoking According to Shannon, men- www.HealthLinkBC.ca comes up with heroin; to not smoking heroin, but tal health issues and substance hundreds of services and programs. with many issues; smoking marijuana; to not smok- use problems go hand in hand at And that doesn’t include many more ing marijuana, but still smoking least 50 per cent of the time. private service providers you’ll fi nd fears, phobias, cigarettes—I’ve made progressive For Hope illustrator Jessie Flynn, Right: Shannon if you do a general online search. steps to what I would defi ne as a suc- that connection is crystal clear. She McCarthy oultines the Private residential treatment is not anxiety, pain man- cess. At any point in time on that fi rst started using to deal with men- addiction treatment regulated by the provincial government, agement, smoking journey you could say this person is tal illness. “I’m stabilized on meds pathways provided and IH’s Shannon McCarthy suggests successfully moving toward recovery.” now, so I’m a normal human being. I by Interior Health. that prospective clients ask very spe- He concludes with a smile : cessation, weight was a normal human being then too, Facing page cifi c questions of the providers, such as: and a shrug, “Will they ever Hypnotherapist but I was using illegal drugs to sta- “What are they really providing; what reach perfection? What if they Carole Fawcett. loss and stress bilize my brain – which didn’t really is the service; what are the outcomes; stop smoking cigarettes, but still work either. ‘Cuz they never do.” what is their history, their reputation; management.” eat excessive doughnuts?”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED PHOTO CONTRIBUTED 28 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 29 getting help... treatment don’t really need it. For many, day-program counselling In the Central Okanagan, Interior while still being exposed to everyday Health (IH) provides a free walk-in stresses is most benefi cial. Clients (no appointment required) assess- who access residential treatment will ment and referral service every need follow-up counselling—usu- weekday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ally involving family as well. its health centre on Ellis Street in If you’re looking for profes- Kelowna. Every year, about 1,500 sional counselling, Jim Browne people of all ages who are concerned of the BC Association of Clinical about their own (or a family mem- Counsellors advises that you look ber’s) substance use get on-the-spot for someone who has “at least assessment and access to a variety Master’s level counselling qualifi ca- of publicly funded services—from tion, (and is) accountable within a counselling to withdrawal man- framework of ethical and practice agement to residential treatment. do they have a physician available; do standard, and public protection.” In addition, IH provides prevention they have graduate-level counselling Hypnotherapy is another option initiatives, as well as youth addiction support; and are they following the BC for people trying to understand and workers in schools, needle exchange, Ministry of Health Adult Residential change their behaviour. As a clini- pregnancy outreach, opioid replace- Treatment Standards (available online).” cal hypnotherapist, Carole Fawcett of ment therapy and street based care. When you just want answers, or Vernon helps her clients “to achieve Crossroads provides a six-week you’re ready to seek care, Shannon deep levels of relaxation. Deep relax- residential treatment program to 1,500 recommends speaking to your fam- ation allows access to the subcon- men and women every year; detox and ily physician. He or she will guide scious mind and can help with many withdrawal management (7 to 10 days and refer you to the services you issues; fears, phobias, anxiety, pain duration) to 250 clients per year; as well need while keeping your total health management, smoking cessation, as day counselling programs to several picture in view, and be able to follow weight loss and stress management.” hundred individuals and families. With you over the long term—something 59 residential spaces, 36 of them fund- vital to your recovery. Shannon also successful results? ed by the BC government, Crossroads is recommends the website HereToHelp. the largest addictions treatment facility bc.ca as an excellent online resource How successful is addiction treat- in the Interior. But it is not the only one. for addicts and their loved ones. ment? Dale Wagner measures recovery Across BC, a wide variety of ser- Dale and Shannon agree a lot success as a process rather than a des- vices are available to people with of addicts who seek out residential tination. “From a harm reduction addictions and their loved ones; pro- perspective, any progression toward fessional counsellors, psychiatrists, an ideal of not being harmed by youth residential care, aboriginal “Deep relaxation your substance use is ‘successful.’ focused treatment, 12-step peer sup- allows access to Some people want to measure that port groups in many communi- in black and white—all or nothing. ties, not-for-profi t outreach groups, the subconscious But the truth is, if I’ve gone from residential treatment programs and sharing needles to using my own; more. A search on British Columbia’s mind and can help to not using needles, but smoking www.HealthLinkBC.ca comes up with heroin; to not smoking heroin, but hundreds of services and programs. with many issues; smoking marijuana; to not smok- And that doesn’t include many more ing marijuana, but still smoking private service providers you’ll fi nd fears, phobias, cigarettes—I’ve made progressive if you do a general online search. steps to what I would defi ne as a suc- Private residential treatment is not anxiety, pain man- cess. At any point in time on that regulated by the provincial government, agement, smoking journey you could say this person is and IH’s Shannon McCarthy suggests successfully moving toward recovery.” that prospective clients ask very spe- cessation, weight He concludes with a smile cifi c questions of the providers, such as: and a shrug, “Will they ever “What are they really providing; what loss and stress reach perfection? What if they is the service; what are the outcomes; stop smoking cigarettes, but still what is their history, their reputation; management.” eat excessive doughnuts?”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 29 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

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YOU VOTED THEM THE BEST. NOW THEY’RE THANKING YOU.

The businesses featured in this section would like to show their appreciation to Okanagan Life readers for voting them among 2012’s Best of the Okanagan. They consider it a great honour to be recognized by you. We expect these businesses will continue to work to serve you beyond your expectations in 2013. Every woman dreams about diamonds.

We love to share your Silver Star. A mountain special moments of endless fun. Best Jeweller • Finalist Best Family Resort • Winner While diamonds are forever, Richard Pierson says the tides are changing at JC Brad- Best Place for Adrenaline Rush • Winner Looks like our hard ley’s. New lines like Pandora, Thomas Sabo and Simon G are now in our showcases Best Place for Family Fun • Finalist work paid off! while new (yet familiar) hands are on deck. “My daughter Chantelle has cut her teeth in our industry,” he says. Now she’s following in her father’s footsteps, something Best Software Development / Web Design she has talked about since she was a little girl, keys in hand and unable even see Just minutes from Vernon and little (Western Canada’s most spectacular Finalist over the showcase. “We are here to share people’s special moments with them, from more than an hour from Kelowna, Silver network), snowshoe trails, ice skating the purchase of an engagement ring to appraising a family heirloom. We’re proud Star is the Okanagan’s only true winter on Brewer’s Pond, and sliding in Tube Thanks to our clients and fans who to cherish these moments with our clients.” With the Pierson’s vast knowledge of and summer mountain resort. In the Town—all for the price of a full-day voted Spincaster one of the best the jewellery world they will be sure to make your next piece the perfect one. snow season, skiers and snowboarders Alpine lift ticket. Pinheads Bowling is website developers in the world. fl ock to the mountain for vast and also new for 2013 and offers the world’s Well—maybe not the world—but varied terrain, buried by more than only ski-in, ski-out 10-pin bowling defi nitely where it matters the 700 centimetres of powder. The skiing lanes. In summer, riders fl ow down one most, right here in the Okanagan. is exceptional but it’s the unmatched of North America’s premier bike parks range of family experiences that really and the resort is the hub for unique sets the resort apart. Silver Star’s events. Smiles are infectious in the 490-4900 27th St , Vernon • P. 250.545.4944 My1Pass is a Canadian fi rst and offers colourful village, which offers numerous 123 Shortt Street, Silver Star Mountain 100-1751 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna 380 Alexander Street NE, Salmon Arm • P. 250.832.8040 access to endless winter fun: skiing and dining options, fun shopping and P. 250.542.0224 TF. 1.800.663.4431 P. 250.763.6952 TF. 877.247.9977 www.jcbradleyjewellers.com riding plus 55 kilometres of Nordic trails slope-side lodging to suit all budgets. www.skisilverstar.com www.spincaster.com

30 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 31 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

Silver Star. A mountain of endless fun.

Best Family Resort • Winner Best Place for Adrenaline Rush • Winner Best Place for Family Fun • Finalist

Just minutes from Vernon and little (Western Canada’s most spectacular more than an hour from Kelowna, Silver network), snowshoe trails, ice skating Star is the Okanagan’s only true winter on Brewer’s Pond, and sliding in Tube and summer mountain resort. In the Town—all for the price of a full-day snow season, skiers and snowboarders Alpine lift ticket. Pinheads Bowling is fl ock to the mountain for vast and also new for 2013 and offers the world’s varied terrain, buried by more than only ski-in, ski-out 10-pin bowling 700 centimetres of powder. The skiing lanes. In summer, riders fl ow down one is exceptional but it’s the unmatched of North America’s premier bike parks range of family experiences that really and the resort is the hub for unique sets the resort apart. Silver Star’s events. Smiles are infectious in the My1Pass is a Canadian fi rst and offers colourful village, which offers numerous 123 Shortt Street, Silver Star Mountain access to endless winter fun: skiing and dining options, fun shopping and P. 250.542.0224 TF. 1.800.663.4431 riding plus 55 kilometres of Nordic trails slope-side lodging to suit all budgets. www.skisilverstar.com

okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 31 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

Strategy. Creative. Get the right Technology. Marketing. investment advice

Best Investment Firm • Winner Best Software Development / Web Design • Winner For more than a century, we have helped individuals, families, businesses, charitable That’s what we do. We’re progressive. Meet RBC Wealth Management team. foundations and other organizations build And by progressive we mean that we Top L-R: Mark Kinnear (VP & Branch Manager), on and preserve their wealth through live, eat and breathe the Internet. We’re Rhonda Hymers, Cary Holtby and Joe Roberge. sound fi nancial planning, trusted invest- hunters and hustlers. Hunting for new Centre L-R: Richard Ingram and Steve Wallouch. ment advice and unparalleled wealth technology that you likely don’t even Bottom L-R: Mitch Westnedge, management solutions. Getting the Neil Eisenhut, Roger Perritt and Patrick Ng. know exists yet, and when we fi nd it, right investment advice is just one part we hustle to fi nd out everything we can of a bigger picture. Managing fi nances, to make it work for our clients. We’ve minimizing taxes, planning for retire- been around since 2001 developing ment or structuring an estate in a tax- software, creating online identities and effi cient manner may also be required. working with clients from around the Because these aspects of managing globe to our own backyard in every wealth are all interconnected, we will create industry imaginable. And having fun. a total, coordinated strategy that addresses We’ve been doing a lot of that too. your fi nancial concerns at each stage of life. Atomic 55 takes creative, technology and marketing seriously. Suite 1100 Landmark Square II 106-1405 St. Paul Street Kelowna 1708 Dolphin Avenue, Kelowna P. 250.763.9453 P. 250.712.2100 • TF. 1.800.756.2211 • F. 250.712.2177 www.atomic55.net www.rbcwealthmanagement.com

Real estate City Furniture & royalty Appliances

Best Real Estate Company • Winner Best Furniture Store • Winner

RE/MAX Kelowna is the Okanagan’s City Furniture in Vernon is the North real estate market leader. Because of Okanagan’s largest home furnishings their people you see their signs every- store as they opened a brand new 45,000 where! RE/MAX agents are passionate sq. ft. location in October 2011. Since about what they do and it shows. 1976 City Furniture has provided the best RE/MAX Kelowna was the fi rst RE/MAX value in brand name furniture, appliances, offi ce in BC and is celebrating its 30th mattresses, electronics and accessories. anniversary this year. They belong to They have a strong “in stock” program one of the largest real estate referral and warehouse many products as well as networks in the world extending to 90 providing custom order programs for those countries. All listings are featured on looking for specifi c products. They work their global website in over 30 languages with contractors, builders and designers and currencies. So when they ask you, throughout the Okanagan. Come and “Where in the world do you want to experience City Furniture’s relaxed buying be?”—they really mean business. atmosphere as they stand by their motto: “We Don’t Sell—We Help You Buy!” *Based on MLS® Active Listings Taken & Sold Units as Reported by OMREB in 2012 for Central Okanagan. City Furniture & Appliances in Vernon is your Okanagan connection in a 22-store chain across BC and Alberta.

100-1553 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna 5401 Anderson Way (Between Kal Tire and Superstore), Vernon P. 250.717.5000 P. 250.549.3121 www.remaxkelowna.com Kelowna www.cityfurniturecanada.com

32 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 33 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

Get the right investment advice

Best Investment Firm • Winner

For more than a century, we have helped individuals, families, businesses, charitable Meet RBC Wealth Management team. foundations and other organizations build Top L-R: Mark Kinnear (VP & Branch Manager), on and preserve their wealth through Rhonda Hymers, Cary Holtby and Joe Roberge. sound fi nancial planning, trusted invest- Centre L-R: Richard Ingram and Steve Wallouch. ment advice and unparalleled wealth Bottom L-R: Mitch Westnedge, management solutions. Getting the Neil Eisenhut, Roger Perritt and Patrick Ng. right investment advice is just one part of a bigger picture. Managing fi nances, minimizing taxes, planning for retire- ment or structuring an estate in a tax- effi cient manner may also be required. Because these aspects of managing wealth are all interconnected, we will create a total, coordinated strategy that addresses your fi nancial concerns at each stage of life.

Suite 1100 Landmark Square II 1708 Dolphin Avenue, Kelowna P. 250.712.2100 • TF. 1.800.756.2211 • F. 250.712.2177 www.rbcwealthmanagement.com

City Furniture & Appliances

Best Furniture Store • Winner

City Furniture in Vernon is the North Okanagan’s largest home furnishings store as they opened a brand new 45,000 sq. ft. location in October 2011. Since 1976 City Furniture has provided the best value in brand name furniture, appliances, mattresses, electronics and accessories. They have a strong “in stock” program and warehouse many products as well as providing custom order programs for those looking for speciﬁ c products. They work with contractors, builders and designers throughout the Okanagan. Come and experience City Furniture’s relaxed buying atmosphere as they stand by their motto: “We Don’t Sell—We Help You Buy!” City Furniture & Appliances in Vernon is your Okanagan connection in a 22-store chain across BC and Alberta.

5401 Anderson Way (Between Kal Tire and Superstore), Vernon P. 250.549.3121 www.cityfurniturecanada.com

okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 33 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

Committed to excellent skin care Best Place for Non-surgical Makeover Winner North Okanagan Skin & Laser is Vernon’s most trusted clinic for quality skin care and laser aesthetics. Being at the forefront of Vista Roofi ng team. L-R: Greg, Paul, Dan and Jason. new services and procedures, men and women of all ages choose us to help them Roofi ng Done Right improve skin health and appearance. Our passion is educating people to achieve Best Roofer • Finalist and maintain healthy skin. We provide the Thanks to everyone who took the Pastiche Advanced Skin Analysis, a thor- time to acknowledge their positive ough, in-depth consultation to establish a experience with our company! We skin care program to meet your needs. are committed to complete customer We are committed to excellence in client satisfaction. We take pride in our care. From laser hair removal and per- quality products and workmanship, manent makeup to esthetic services, you outstanding service and professional can trust North Okanagan Skin & Laser to integrity from project start to clean-up. provide you with the very best in skin care. North Okanagan Skin & Laser team. L-R: Kristina Hoy, Lori Anderson (owner), Lisa Kloppenburg and Liz Bussey. north okanagan #104 - 3307 32nd Avenue, Vernon P. 250.542.2721 SKIN&LASER 223-1889 Springfi eld Road, Kelowna www.okanaganskinandlaser.com inspiring radiance inside and out P. 250.860.8832 • www.vistaroofi ng.ca Wiener’s Plumbing team. Top row L-R: Gord (offi ce manager), Reda (operations co-ordintator), Don (senior technician). Center row L-R: Larry (irrigation specialist), Drew (superintendent), Ken (technician). Bottom row L-R: Justin (technician), Wiener (president/owner) and Grant (technician). Your home leisure specialists Drain your pipes, Best Hot Tub & Spa Dealer Winner not your wallet From billiard tables to barbecues, for 11 years Best Plumber • Winner we’ve helped happy customers make the most Ryan and Jennifer Bennett. Wiener’s Plumbing & Irrigation Ltd. has been providing quality, affordable service of their leisure time with our Hotwire Electric team. L-R: Craig, in all aspects of plumbing and irrigation for 30 years—24 hours a day, 365 days quality products, installation Rob, Steve, Martin and Ryan. Growing with Penticton a year. We’ll replace your hot water tank, repair a water leak or unplug a blocked and repair services. Find Hotwire Electric sewer line. Kelowna’s largest plumbing service specialists, we can also handle the perfect hot tub to warm Best Residential Builder • Winner Best Electrician • Finalist all of your gas work needs, along with plumbing related to new home construc- the winter months, and Best Renovation Company • Winner tion and renovations and outdoor irrigation. We have built a reputation for quality get ready for spring with Locally owned and operated, Hotwire Since 2005 Ryan Bennett has workmanship and service at reasonable rates. With our competent staff of journey- outdoor furniture, gazebos Electric has been doing business in been satisfying customers on man plumbers and gasfi tters, we have many years of experience remedying existing and swimming pools. We Kelowna since 2002. It’s been a plea- projects ranging from custom and problems and preventing new ones, using have everything you’ll sure serving the Okanagan and we want multi-family housing to commercial the latest electronic cameras and augering need to enjoy your space. to say “Thank You” to our customers properties and renovations. See equipment available today. Residential or Visit us at 64 Industrial for your continued support. As a valued for yourself how professionalism, commercial, whether you’re renovating, IENER’S Ave. West, Penticton. customer if you quote this ad at your quality and value go hand-in-hand. repairing or starting fresh, give us a call. W Bottom L-R: Will Schulz, Jason Garlet, Dirk Tennert, next service call we will give you $25 off. Dan Kilpatrick and Doug Orr. PLUMBING 2105 Richter Street, Kelowna 64 Industrial Avenue West, Penticton Penticton • P. 250.809.4444 P. 250.862.8886 • F. 250.862.2666 P.250.493.3850 731 Baillie Avenue, Kelowna • P. 250.860.9526 www.new-spaces-construction.com www.wienersplumbingandirrigation.com www.classicleisurelifestyles.com www.hotwireelectrickelowna.com

34 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 35 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

Committed to excellent skin care Best Place for Non-surgical Makeover Winner North Okanagan Skin & Laser is Vernon’s most trusted clinic for quality skin care and laser aesthetics. Being at the forefront of new services and procedures, men and women of all ages choose us to help them improve skin health and appearance. Our passion is educating people to achieve and maintain healthy skin. We provide the Pastiche Advanced Skin Analysis, a thor- ough, in-depth consultation to establish a skin care program to meet your needs. We are committed to excellence in client care. From laser hair removal and per- manent makeup to esthetic services, you can trust North Okanagan Skin & Laser to provide you with the very best in skin care. North Okanagan Skin & Laser team. L-R: Kristina Hoy, Lori Anderson (owner), Lisa Kloppenburg and Liz Bussey. north okanagan #104 - 3307 32nd Avenue, Vernon P. 250.542.2721 SKIN&LASER www.okanaganskinandlaser.com inspiring radiance inside and out

Your home leisure specialists Best Hot Tub & Spa Dealer Winner From billiard tables to barbecues, for 11 years we’ve helped happy customers make the most of their leisure time with our Hotwire Electric team. L-R: Craig, quality products, installation Rob, Steve, Martin and Ryan. and repair services. Find Hotwire Electric the perfect hot tub to warm Best Electrician • Finalist the winter months, and get ready for spring with Locally owned and operated, Hotwire outdoor furniture, gazebos Electric has been doing business in and swimming pools. We Kelowna since 2002. It’s been a plea- have everything you’ll sure serving the Okanagan and we want need to enjoy your space. to say “Thank You” to our customers Visit us at 64 Industrial for your continued support. As a valued Ave. West, Penticton. customer if you quote this ad at your Bottom L-R: Will Schulz, Jason Garlet, Dirk Tennert, next service call we will give you $25 off. Dan Kilpatrick and Doug Orr.

64 Industrial Avenue West, Penticton P.250.493.3850 731 Baillie Avenue, Kelowna • P. 250.860.9526 www.classicleisurelifestyles.com www.hotwireelectrickelowna.com

okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 35 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

The creative We are committed to school continuing excellence

Best Private School • Finalist Best Car Dealer • Winner At Studio9 Independent School Best Truck Dealer • Winner of the Arts, we inspire students Best Auto Maintenance • Finalist to unlock their own appetites for creativity and learning. We focus The Bannister family and the staff of Ban- on the performing, digital and nister would like to thank the readers of Allegra Okanagan visual arts along with academ- Okanagan Life magazine for once again ics in a project-based learning voting us #1. We are thrilled and honoured Best Place for Printing • Winner environment that exceeds that the readers awarded Bannister GM Ministry requirements. Serving Vernon the #1 car and #1 truck We’re thankful for being voted Best Kindergarten through Grade dealer in the North Okanagan and Place for Printing in the South 12, our progressive educational Bannister Honda Vernon the #1 import Okanagan. We will continue to strive for environment allows students to be dealer in the North Okanagan. We are excellence in 2013, supplying all your themselves while acquiring critical truly excited. We look forward to continu- printing needs from offset and digital thinking skills and achieving high ing to service our customers to the best jobs to outdoor signs and banners. academic standards. No experi- of our abilities every day at each of our ence necessary…just passion. Bannister dealerships in Vernon, Pent- Penticton: Top: The Elementary Dance Class poses as they get ready for their Studio icton and Salmon Arm. Thank you! Independent School Of The Arts Come visit our Bannister GM dealership in Vernon. #102 - 240 Industrial Ave. East December performance. Bottom: The Senior Rock Band performs P. 250.493.4766 for 300 people at Rotary Centre for the Arts, December 7, 2012 9 Kelowna: 4703 - 27th Street, Vernon #6 - 1415 Hunter Court 4703 - 27th Street, Vernon BC DL#9133 1180 Houghton Road, Kelowna P. 250.545.0606 bannisters.com P. 250.762.6802 BANNISTER P. 250.868.8816 “A Family Business, with Family Values ” 250-545-0606 OKANAGAN www.bannisters.com www.allegraokanagan.com www.studio9.ca

AuthenTech Homes invites you to turn your dream into reality Best Residential Builder • Winner

Specializing in customer service, award winning AuthenTech Homes has been “building Country RV team. dreams into reality” since 1991. From concept to completion it The road to success is our goal to fulﬁ ll our clients’ From L-R: Jacquelyn, Stephanie, Lee Ann, Krista, Carol-Lynn, Jennifer, Westwood Fine Cabinetry’s manufacturing plant and showroom. wishes and transform their Karen, Jackie and Betty. Best RV Dealer • Winner needs into a well-built, quality Westwood Fine Cabinetry home that suits their specs. J.K. Schmidt Jewellers Country RV prides itself on excellent Bring us your ideas, let’s talk Best Jeweller • Winner Best Custom Kitchen Vendor • Winner customer service with a no pressure, and let’s make this happen. no stress style of doing business. Now is the time to realize your Locally owned and operated for over 35 years, we Since 1972 Westwood has been manufacturing ﬁ ne We sincerely want to thank the dream. Call today or visit our pride ourselves on great customer service and cabinetry for all areas of the home in every style from readers of Okanagan Life magazine Wilden Skylands show home. top quality products at competitive prices. J.K. traditional to ultra modern—custom designed or cash-and- for making us #1 yet again. Open daily 1-5 except Fridays. Schmidt can handle all your jewellery needs from carry. Visit our showroom and meet one of our designers, engraving and watch repairs to custom designs. then tour the factory and see how our skilled workforce Photo by Supa Chowchong Come check out our new brands and new look. turns great ideas into great kitchens, baths and more. Scott and Gina Tyerman at entry of custom built Kelowna home

3732 Hwy 97 N, Kelowna 2140 Leckie Place, Kelowna P. 250.807.2898 TF. 888.456.1808 Wilden Skylands showhome at 139 Skyland Drive, Kelowna 2477 Main Street West, Kelowna • P. 250.768.7353 P. 250.860.3900 www.countryrv.net P. 250.491.7690 • www.authentechhomes.com www.jkschmidt.ca www.westwoodﬁ necabinetry.com

36 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 37 Best of the Okanagan ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Best of the Okanagan

We are committed to continuing excellence

Best Car Dealer • Winner Best Truck Dealer • Winner Best Auto Maintenance • Finalist

The Bannister family and the staff of Ban- nister would like to thank the readers of Okanagan Life magazine for once again voting us #1. We are thrilled and honoured that the readers awarded Bannister GM Vernon the #1 car and #1 truck dealer in the North Okanagan and Bannister Honda Vernon the #1 import dealer in the North Okanagan. We are truly excited. We look forward to continuing to service our customers to the best of our abilities every day at each of our Bannister dealerships in Vernon, Pent- icton and Salmon Arm. Thank you! Come visit our Bannister GM dealership in Vernon.

4703 - 27th Street, Vernon 4703 - 27th Street, Vernon BC DL#9133 P. 250.545.0606 BANNISTER bannisters.com www.bannisters.com “A Family Business, with Family Values ” 250-545-0606

From L-R: Jacquelyn, Stephanie, Lee Ann, Krista, Carol-Lynn, Jennifer, Westwood Fine Cabinetry’s manufacturing plant and showroom. Karen, Jackie and Betty. J.K. Schmidt Jewellers Westwood Fine Cabinetry Best Jeweller • Winner Best Custom Kitchen Vendor • Winner

Locally owned and operated for over 35 years, we Since 1972 Westwood has been manufacturing ﬁ ne pride ourselves on great customer service and cabinetry for all areas of the home in every style from top quality products at competitive prices. J.K. traditional to ultra modern—custom designed or cash-and- Schmidt can handle all your jewellery needs from carry. Visit our showroom and meet one of our designers, engraving and watch repairs to custom designs. then tour the factory and see how our skilled workforce Come check out our new brands and new look. turns great ideas into great kitchens, baths and more.

2140 Leckie Place, Kelowna 2477 Main Street West, Kelowna • P. 250.768.7353 P. 250.860.3900 www.jkschmidt.ca www.westwoodﬁ necabinetry.com

okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 37 highspirits

TransiTioning Back To PsT. Where do you go from here?

on april 1, 2013, B.c. will be making history when the province moves from having a 12% HsT to a 5% gsT and a 7% PsT. and while the province released guidelines to aid in the transition, the process can be complicated. as the leader of MnP’s okanagan Tax group, Heather Weber specializes in helping her clients with all their indirect taxation needs. Working by Michael Botner closely with you, she will develop a cost effective and efficient transition plan to ensure you minimize your tax exposure and maximize More than a the returns to your business.

Contact Heather Weber, CGA, Indirect Tax Leader at 250.979.2575 or [email protected]. matter of taste What goes on after that ﬁ ne wine passes your lips? Learn about the complex physical relationship between vintage, taste and touch

After popping or twisting the closure, Of the fi ve senses, taste is the although I suspect it may be part of you pour the wine into a suitable least sensitive and most primitive. It the savouriness or umami phenom- glass. Before sipping the shimmer- begins with acidity at the tip of the enon discerned by some tasters. ing liquid, you impress your guests tongue, which is necessary to give Mouthfeel has to do with the tac- by expertly swirling and sniffi ng. wine a crisp, lively taste. On the sides tile perceptions of temperature, CO2, Concluding that the wine exhibits of the tongue you perceive sweet- viscosity, alcohol and astringency; the character of the grape variety ness, which all wines, even dry ones, sensitivity varies between individuals. and there are no faults, you delight have to some degree. Also, keep in Wine served cooler or with a prickly in the complexity and intensity of mind that ripe fruit gives the impres- sensation tastes more refreshing. aromas and the fi ne, elegant, distinc- sion of sweetness. Whether sweet Derived from alcohol, tannins and tive bouquet. You are looking forward or dry, a well-balanced wine should sugars, viscosity gives wine its weight to the next step, savouring the wine. be refreshing, not fl at or tart. or body. High alcohol imparts a “hot” In your mouth, the senses of taste Bitterness from phenolic extrac- or burning character on the tongue. and touch come into play, as well as the tions—fermenting grape skins at Astringency, a drying, tea-like sensa- olfactory sensors by way of retro-nasal high temperatures—is perceived at tion, derives from grape skins, giving pathways with air you take in as you the back of the mouth. An acquired the wine grip, and wood tannin, which sip the wine. As soon a wine touches taste, some bitterness (think affords a warm sensation. In fi ne you lips, there is a hint of its texture, almond or dark chocolate) is neces- wine, astringency balances with ripe but it is important to consider tast- sary for balance and complexity. fruit while providing texture, struc- ing as the fi rst stage in the process. Saltiness is generally not a factor, ture, aging potential and length.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOTNER okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 39 highspirits

More than a by Michael Botner matter of taste What goes on after that ﬁ ne wine passes your lips? Learn about the complex physical relationship between vintage, taste and touch

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOTNER okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 39 highspirits There is a new restaurant in town.

Showcasing a bevy of great winter wines from Okanagan grapes, the ﬁ ve star rating system stresses value for price.

PENTÂGE WINERY GEHRINGER BROTHERS HAYWIRE 2010 PINOT NOIR 2007 PENTÂGE 2011 CABERNET MERLOT SECREST MOUNTAIN VINEYARD Penticton, Okanagan Valley DRY ROCK VINEYARD Summerland, Okanagan Valley ★★★★1/2 $28 Oliver, Okanagan Valley ★★★★ $27 Troika of Bordeaux varieties ★★★★ $15.99 Super offering from Okanagan Crush predominate in this remarkably poised From the three main Bordeaux varieties, Pad, Haywire Pinot Noir sports red. Seamless and velvety palate this fruit bomb delivers warm, rich, supple exuberant fl avours of beetroot, plum and displays richly-concentrated cassis, plum, cassis and raspberry fruit-laced hints strawberry fruit, nuances of mushroom, leather, toasty oak and Hershey’s of rhubarb, tobacco and Toblerone Swiss smoked meat, paprika, vanilla and chocolate syrup. Decant before serving chocolate spiked with almond and honey puréed tomato, and fi ne, spicy tannins. with roast meat or game dishes. nougat. Best bet with barbecued meats. Try it with Mediterranean fi sh stew.

Dine in our new licensed restaurant. 250.860.0608 3155 Lakeshore Rd Shop for everything you need and Kelowna for your kitchen too. www.urbanfare.com

INNISKILLIN OKANAGAN MISSION HILL OLIVER TWIST 2009 DISCOVERY SERIES ZINFANDEL 2011 RESERVE RIESLING 2010 SYRAH Oliver, Okanagan Valley West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley Oliver, Okanagan Valley ★★★★1/2 $25.99 ★★★★1/2 $25 ★★★★1/2 $ 2 7. 9 0 Potent Zinfandel emulates the traditional, Sensational Riesling offers vibrant Classic northern Rhône style take-no-prisoners style. Big nose aromas and ﬂ avours suggesting lime, distinguishes this superb Okanagan ...because we live here. and chewy palate feature intense tangerine, peach, lychee and green Syrah. It oozes dense, concentrated blueberry jam, raspberry and blackberry apple with mineral and honey notes, plum, blueberry and black cherry fruit, spiced by smoky oak, coffee, puréed the richness refreshed by clean, razor- and hints of black pepper, tar, tobacco, tomato and old-fashioned licorice sharp acidity. Serve with pork, poultry cedar and salami supported by ripe, ﬁ rm jawbreaker. Try with roast game, beef. and seafood, as well as Thai cuisine. tannins. Enjoy with game, blue cheese.

ROAD 13 TOWNSHIP 7 TOWNSHIP 7 2011 SEVENTY-FOUR K 2010 CHARDONNAY 2009 MERLOT Oliver, Okanagan Valley Penticton, Okanagan Valley Penticton, Okanagan Valley “It’s funny how a newborn can change your ★★★★ $24.99 ★★★★ $24.99 ★★★★ $24.99 perspective on everything, ...that’s why we have life Previously called Rockpile, this chunky, Polished and poised, nuanced Well-bred Merlot shows fi nesse and a insurance through Western Financial Group.” crowd-pleasing Syrah/Merlot blend Chardonnay serves up an enticing nose seductive character. Smooth, refi ned delivers ripe plum and blackberry and a creamy, toasty palate suggesting palate features supple plum and tern Financial Gro fruit with fl avours suggesting milk oatmeal cookies, dried apricot, fi g, honey, blackberry with notes of cinnamon, -Wes up- The Harvest Dining Room is Available To get a quick quote visit or call: LIFE for your Special Event or Meeting chocolate cream biscuits, licorice, black hazelnut, baked apple and butterscotch. tobacco, black pepper and smoky westernfinancialgroup.ca INSURANCE - We are the experts you can count on to make your Bes tee- pepper and smoky oak. Accompanies Accompanies fi sh, poultry, pasta with oak, backed by fi nely-textured tannins. 1-866-843-9378 t Service Guaran special event a success. Experience award winning service pepper steak with roast garlic. creamy nut or mushroom sauce. Recommended with lamb or beef. and spectacular panoramic views of the Okanagan. helping our communities with all their insurance needs To book your event, contact The Harvest at 1.800.257.8577 or Auto | Home | Business | | Travel | Pet | Financial Services 250.862.3109 or visit www.harvestgolf.com for more information. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL BOTNER Life 40 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 41 There is a new restaurant in town.

Dine in our new licensed restaurant. 250.860.0608 3155 Lakeshore Rd Shop for everything you need and Kelowna for your kitchen too. www.urbanfare.com

...because we live here.

“It’s funny how a newborn can change your perspective on everything, ...that’s why we have life insurance through Western Financial Group.”

tern Financial Gro -Wes up- The Harvest Dining Room is Available To get a quick quote visit or call: LIFE for your Special Event or Meeting westernfinancialgroup.ca INSURANCE - We are the experts you can count on to make your Bes tee- 1-866-843-9378 t Service Guaran special event a success. Experience award winning service and spectacular panoramic views of the Okanagan. helping our communities with all their insurance needs To book your event, contact The Harvest at 1.800.257.8577 or 250.862.3109 or visit www.harvestgolf.com for more information. Auto | Home | Business | Life | Travel | Pet | Financial Services okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 41 whoamongus whoamongus

by Shannon Linden The best medicine

When sudden illness or trauma strike, teams of dedicated professionals swing into action. In Kelowna, they’re led by a man who knows emergency medicine from the inside out—Dr. Mike Ertel

The revolving door swishes open don’t let his smiling face—or cian and father to three girls, he with the arrival of sick or injured slightly short stature—fool you. says the women in his life keep people and clicks closed as hun- He’s larger than life, fi ercely tena- him in check while the men dreds of treated patients depart. cious, awfully persuasive and he works with motivate him. This is the daily dance of the emer- a hell of a hockey player, too. “We have such a great ER group gency department and for Dr. Mike A forward in the competitive and I’m a workaholic,” he admits. Ertel, it’s more tango than waltz. Men’s Premier League, Division “I have constant guilt about bal- Dr. Mike has donned some dif- One, Dr. Mike is as passion- ancing work and family. But I’m ferent caps during his 16 years at ate on the ice as in the ER. His Catholic. I’m okay with guilt.” Kelowna General Hospital (KGH): team, the Sparta, won the pro- Dr. Mike says he always wanted full-time emergency room physi- vincial title last year, though to be a doctor, even as a little kid. cian, former chief and medical Dr. Mike jokes he’s barely hold- “That or an NHL hockey player, director of the ER and, until ing on at his age. “We load up but then I stopped growing.” recently, medical director of emer- with young guys and I pass them Lucky for his profession—and gency services for Interior Health. the puck,” he says, grinning. particularly KGH—medicine But like the chaos inherent in his Coming from a hockey fam- came fi rst. “I never dread going specialty, this doctor thrives on ily helps. His younger brother in and I always leave with a sense challenge and change. Meet the was drafted by the Canucks (he of accomplishment,” he says. latest chief of staff for KGH. now works as a teacher) while Ultimately Dr. Mike hopes his Moving into administration was his dad was “hired and fi red for latest position will allow him to a natural for the man colleagues every possible position” with the give back to the place that has call the “Kaiser.” (“I’m a bit of a con- Kitchener Rangers (who won the given him so much—a career he trol freak,” he admits.) Certainly Memorial Cup during his tenure). loves—and a second chance at life. Dr. Mike’s obsession with getting Driven to do it all, Dr. Mike In an ironic twist of fate, he things done serve the hospital does struggle to fi nd the bal- was saved by the institution that well, but it’s his people skills that ance between the family he lives employs him and by the col- earn him the most admiration. for and the work that calls to leagues that inspire him. About Known for his sense of humour, him. Married to a fellow physi- a year after attending to a fel-

8 4 am5 am pm pm 5 pm7

“Me time!” Up before the Drive kids to school, arrive During hockey season, Back at the hospital wrap If no hockey practice that Could be anything. Start rest of the house, enjoy at the hospital to start a if it’s Tuesday or up meetings, paperwork, day or a game that night, of an ER shift, fam- a couple cups of coffee shift in the ER or attend Thursday, sneak out for possibly ER shift. Barring might sneak in a run. ily activities, dinner and and impress colleagues administrative meetings a noon hour practice. incoming trauma or a glass of wine with for a good part of the day. ongoing administrative friends. It depends on by answering emails work, leave for family that day’s “dance.” before the sun rises. duties, like driving girls to ski practice.

PHOTO BY SHANNON LINDEN 42 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 okanaganlife.com okanaganlife.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013 43 whoamongus

by Shannon Linden The best medicine

When sudden illness or trauma strike, teams of dedicated professionals swing into action. In Kelowna, they’re led by a man who knows emergency medicine from the inside out—Dr. Mike Ertel

8 4 am5 am pm pm 5 pm7

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