Okanagan Sun July 2012

JULY 2012

Rise and Shine!

Romancing The Desert Stand Up Paddle in the Okanagan New book from OK Falls author

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OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 1

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26

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10

Sun Sightings

Things were ‘all shook up’ at the Elvis Fine Jewellery shop in Osoyoos this month. Elvis Furmanek has recently switched around the massive collection of Elvis Presley memorabilia inside the store. “It was just time to change it up a bit,” he said. “It’s nice to give people something new to see when they come in.” Furmanek is looking foward to his fourth summer in the current location. “It’s a great community to be a part of,” he said.

“We’re very fortunate to live here.” Stop by his Main Street location, ‘Graceland North’ as it’s affectionately monikered, and watch for his new Elvis line of jewellery coming soon.

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OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 3

14

09

CONTENTS • JULY Music In The Park 6 Fighting Fat To Fit Fighter 9 Stand Up Paddle 14 New book from OK Falls author 18 “Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains...”

18

PUBLISHER

REPORTER & PROOFREADER

BRIAN HIGHLEY has run international campaigns with Adbusters magazine and published the OK Sun newspaper in Osoyoos. He is of course writing this, and feels strange referring to himself in the third person.

ANDREA DUJARDINFLEXHAUG has been living in the South Okanagan and writing for newspapers for 25plus years, ever since she graduated from the Journalism Program at Langara, VCC

CONTRIBUT0RS Barbara Mahoney has been an Okanagan Valley gal since 1965.

As a true nature lover, she feels priviledged to have worked outside for 40 years. “Let’s all try harder to watch what we put down the drains and into our water supply.”

JORG MARDIAN is a Certified Kinesiology Specialist, Myoskeletal Therapist, Fitness Trainer and Registered Holistic Nutritionist. He specializes in injury/pain therapy, functional fitness, weight loss and holistic nutrition.

BERNIE BATES is a writer, cartoonist, poet and entrepreneur of native heritage, who grew up on a ranch. “I was the only kid I knew that could play cowboys and Indians all by myself!”

DEREK HIGHLEY is a Class A Member of the PGA of America. He is TPI Certified and is a full time Golf Instructor teaching over 1,500 lessons annually.

- Diane Ackerman JULY 2012

Rise and Shine!

Romancing The Desert Stand Up Paddle in the Okanagan New book from OK Falls author

FREE

www.oksun.ca

100% locally owned

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 1

ON THE COVER

Stroll along the 1.5 km boardwalk sipping fine BC wines at Romancing The Desert in Osoyoos. Photo contributed

4 www.oksun.ca

We welcome feedback from our readers. Send comments to brian@oksun.ca or mail to Box 177, Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R0 Tel 250.535.0540 No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in whole or part by any means without the written permission of the publisher.

Whilst every care has been taken with this publication, the author(s) and publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this publication. © 2012 Okanagan Sun Publishing. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement.

Complete issues are available online at:

www.oksun.ca

OK SUN

IN THIS ISSUE

W

ow - Rene Boutin of A-1 Secuirty in Osoyoos is a popular guy! Perhaps due to the photo of Rene on the cover of last month's Okanagan Sun Magazine, it was virtually impossible to keep the magazine stands stocked. Most businesses had run out of copies in the first two weeks of June. Thanks to everyone who called and e-mailed your responses to the issue - we really appreciate your kind words. This month, we are printing extra copies and distributing to more locations than ever. This magazine is free to you, thanks to the support of our outstanding advertisers. Please let business owners know that you saw their ad in the Okanagan Sun. We extend a special welcome to those travellers visiting the South Okanagan this summer. We certainly hope that you enjoy all the unique features that this part of the world has to offer.

Our desert environment is an extraordinary place, and this issue of the Okanagan Sun celebrates the area in a couple of different ways. Page 26 takes us to the Osoyoos Desert Centre, where we learn about one of the four most endangered ecosystems in Canada. On Saturday, July 28 the Osoyoos Desert Society will host the annual Romancing The Desert fundraiser at the interpretive centre. Each summer the event showcases the area’s unique desert habitat along with the gourmet fare of local restaurants and wineries. This year’s event features an international theme, with globally-inspired cuisine and a speciallythemed guided tour along the Desert Centre’s 1.5 km

boardwalk. What a great opportunity to experience our area.

Speaking of which, a few weeks ago I received a call from Barbara Mahoney of Osoyoos. She called to invite me to join her on a Stand Up Paddling tour of Osoyoos Lake. Barbara extends that invitation to you on page 14, and I would encourage readers to give it a try. Stand Up Paddling is easy, and it gave me chance to not only see our area in a new way, but to somehow feel like I was a part of it. I have always loved the mountains and the water here, but while stand up paddling, I was no longer just a passive observer. On a board, out on the water, there was nothing separating me from the scenery. It was nice to come into contact with the landscape, and to be in the scene, not just watching it. You get a real sense of being in the present moment when the region is no longer just a mise-en-scène for the eyes, but rather becomes something to be experienced.

If you are out on the water in any capacity this summer, please be safe. July 21 to 29 is National Drowning Prevention week. Check the Lifesaving Society’s website at www.lifesaving.bc.ca for tips on how to stay safe in the water this season.

The Okanagan Sun strives to embody the voice and character of our region and a great way to do that is to write, read and learn about ourselves. Please consider dropping us a line with your stories, club news, artwork and more to be printed and shared.

brian@oksun.ca

250.495.3352

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 5

Music In The Park Summer is here and it’s time to come to the Park and enjoy the music sponsored by the Oliver Community Arts Council. Music In The Park has been well-attended for many years. The east side of the old CPR Station (Oliver Visitor Centre) facing the river has proven to be a favorite site for the audience and the musicians. There is ample parking, also an easy walk from the Town and the R.V. parks.

Music In The Park begins July 5th and runs every Thursday evening until August 23rd. The musicians play from 6.30-8 p.m. Admission is by donation and greatly appreciated by the Arts Council. Your donations provide the Arts Council with the monies to enable these concerts that bring hours of enjoyment.

Every year, the Music In The Park committee provides the audience with a diverse selection of performers and a new musical event every week. This year, the musicians featured are from the South Okanagan with special guest performers from Vancouver.

July 5th we start Music In The Park with the well known Kettle Valley Brakemen, Phil Wiebe, Jack Godwin, Debbie Liebrecht & Craig Brown entertaining with railroad songs and stories.

July 12 – The Procrastinators - classic rockandroll. Ed Dukes, John Kwasnica,

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Visit us in Okanagan Falls at 5121 9th Avenue Online at www.dogtowncoffee.ca Or call 778-515-5524

6 www.oksun.ca

Jim Ruhland, & Dan Atkinson.

July 19-- Carlie & Julie Kennedy Country folk music. Carlie and Julie are twin sisters whose performances have won many awards. This evening will be the Valley First “Feed the Valley” food bank drive and donations of food for the Oliver Food Bank will be most welcome.

The Kennedys are nominated for the 2012 Vancouver Island Music award for Best Live Act. Reviewers, colleagues, and audiences alike describe Carlie and Julie as “fine players and truly communicative performers.” This dynamic duo is winning over a wide range of audiences with maturity beyond their years as instrumen-

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talists, vocalists and songwriters. With a musical connection reminiscent of other Canadian family groups, such as Leahy and The Rankins, audiences are falling in love with the music of Carlie and Julie Kennedy.

July 26— Dale Seaman & Mikie Spillett country & western hits.

August 2 -- Cindy Doucette - a great variety of music.

August 9 -- Guys With Guitars: featuring Brian Highley as well as The Gala Vanters Shane Swift & Luke Whittall - rock and original music.

August 16 -- A surprise.

August 23 -- Jazz Out West - light jazz and popular standards. Jim Wyse, Bob Larrett and vocals by Iris Larrett.

Music starts at 6:30 every Thursday evening and runs until 8 p.m.

Bring your chairs or blankets, picnic if you wish. Desserts and bottled water may be purchased on site. If it is raining, please come to the Big Blue building at the Quail’s Nest Arts Centre, 5840 Airport Rd. (formerly 95th St.). Your own chairs will be required there as well.

We look forward to seeing you there. For further information, please call Sally at 250-498-0104.

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 7

8 www.oksun.ca

From Fighting Fat To Fit Fighter:

One Woman's Inspiring Weight Loss Journey lifestyle, especially as the fitness routines became increasingly more vigorous.

Throughout, Laranjo also maintained a busy schedule at her salon, Beyond Beauty Hair Studio. To do so, her trainer had to “fit her new lifestyle into an already hectic schedule.”

Mardian designed a program of “interval training, heavier weights and bodyweight routines while keeping her on a healthy eating plan of frequent, yet small portions of whole foods.

“Everything was designed around short, intense exercise sessions designed to stimulate her metabolism, lose body fat and build muscle quickly,” said Mardian.

He added, “Alison had a deep desire to turn things around and stayed amazingly focused throughout this journey. I provided the means, but the determination to change had to come from her for success to be guaranteed.”

The results speak for themselves.

Laranjo quickly surpassed her initial 30-pound goal and Mardian encouraged her to double up on it. Seven months later she did just that, losing 60 pounds, while

dropping a whopping 14 percent body fat and decreasing her waist size by 10 inches.

“I have so much more confidence, and feel 100% better about myself, not to mention a ton more energy,” Laranjo said.

She added, “ Every morning when I wake up to workout, I feel that I have accomplished something worthwhile even before 8 am. I can work harder all day, and just feel more alive which makes me more creative.”

Another benefit to Laranjo has been in her personal life.

“It has affected my relationship, because I am happier every day, which reflects on my partner as well.”

At this point in her life, Laranjo can’t imagine ever going back to the negative feelings of her former lifestyle. She encourages everyone to get out there and take steps to become more active in any way.

“I wanted to share my story with others to encourage people to get motivated and live a healthier lifestyle. If I can do it, anybody can,” she said.

AFTER

BEFORE

Alison Laranjo faced a dilemma in October 2010 – lose weight or become very sick. At the young age of 25, she was already at the point of being constantly tired and just wanted to feel better. So she took an honest appraisal of her lifestyle and decided that losing about 30 pounds was her best option. How to do it was to be left to someone else, so she hired the services of local fitness expert and nutritionist Jorg Mardian.

And so began a journey that would transform this young woman’s life. Laranjo began working out five days a week and started eating healthy foods, instead of junk. Her dietary intake now consisted of many vegetables, protein and healthy fats, and a reduced carbohydrate intake to reflect her activity levels. High fat junk food and sugar was cut out altogether to help bring her body fat under control.

The fitness regimen was started slowly at first to help her muscles become conditioned to more work, but within a short period of time Mardian quickly progressed her to faster cardio and weights. Soon, Laranjo started really enjoying her new

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 9

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Volunteers Needed The South Okanagan Similkameen Volunteer Centre promotes volunteerism in 40 member organizations.

Check out the volunteer opportunities directory for more opportunities at www.volunteercentre.info The South Okanagan Victim Assistance Society is looking for volunteers to help with the Granfondo to stand at barricaded intersections and help ensure no one moves the barricades Sunday, July 8. Bike race starts at 7 am. Volunteer positions start at different times and are various lengths. The shortest volunteering position is one hour. For providing volunteers for the Granfondo, SOVAS will receive an honorarium, which means the more volunteers the larger the donation SOVAS will receive.

For more information or to register as a volunteer call Amberlee at 250-493-0800 or email: rdc.sovas@gmail.com

Osoyoos Elks Lodge No. 436 8506 92nd Avenue

495-6416

Royal Purple Elks meet on the 2nd and 4th meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of Wednesday of each month. each month.

Happy 145th Birthday Canada!

Come join us!

(250) 495-3936 10 www.oksun.ca

Okanagan Pictographs The Okanagan pictographs in our area are of significant importance.

My early people spoke of legends, stories and mystical beings from these works of art. We have roughly recorded 157 sites in and around our valley. Some of these are hidden from view while others are in plain sight along our roadways on our reserves.

The rock named ‘red ochre’ is mixed with bear fat to create the magical paint that has lasted thousands of years. The rock itself is sacred and often traded for other items of value such as nephrite, which is used in making chisels and other artifacts.

If you are wandering in our pristine valleys and happen to view our rock paintings, seen at different locations, I would ask you that you respect them.

Admire the works but please do not paint, scratch, gouge or damage them as these are sacred sites and have a great deal of meaning to our Okanagan First Nations people and First Nations all over.

All my relations, Robert Etienne

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 11

OLIVER THEATRE Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues., Thurs. - Fri. June 11 - 12 - 13 - 14, 16 - 17

*

Enjoy your evening out, taking in a movie at the Oliver Theatre!

June, 2012 Programme

We're Airconditioned

Visit our website

www.olivertheatre.ca

Thurs. - Fri. - Sat. June 7 - 8 - 9 Showtimes on Fri. & Sat. at 7:00 & 9:30 p.m.

Violence, coarse language.

Sun. - Mon. - Tues.

Regular Showtimes

*

Sun.-Mon.-Tues.-Thurs...7:30 P.M. Fri.-Sat.................7:00 & 9:00 P.M. (Unless otherwise stated)

Phone 250-498-2277

Oliver, B.C.

Thurs. - Fri. - Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues.

June 21 - 22 - 23 - 24 - 25 - 26 Showtimes on Fri. & Sat. at 7:00 & 9:30 p.m.

June 10 - 11 - 12

Violence.

Sexually suggestive scenes, sexual language.

Summer Showtimes begin on June 28

Thurs. - Fri. - Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues.

June 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 - 18 - 19 Showtimes on Fri. & Sat. at 7:00 & 9:10 p.m.

Summer Showtimes 7:00 & 9:00 P.M. Nightly (Unless otherwise stated)

Thurs. - Fri. - Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues.

June 28 - 29 - 30, July 1 - 2 - 3

Showtimes at 7:00 & 9:15 p.m.

Violence, coarse language.

Violence.

There will also be a matinee of this show on the Sat. at 2:00 p.m. All seats $6.00 for the matinee.

Programme subject to unavoidable change without notice

Indulgence:

The War Of 1812 In The West: The Oregon Country Legacy

The Osoyoos & District Museum and Archives is pleased to announce a grant of $71,000 from the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Honourable James Moore, under the Celebration and Commemoration Program for the project titled: “The War of 1812 in the West: The Oregon Country Legacy.” The two-year project from 2012-2013 will involve the development of a travelling exhibit, the creation of an online exhibit, and the publication of learning materials that will tell the story of the impact of the War of 1812 on the West.

The war of 1812 had a legacy in Western Canada, although few Canadians today know about its repercussions on the region called the Oregon Country. Although the war was declared in June 1812, news of the War did not reach the Pacific Coast until December that year. The American Pacific Fur Company sold out to the Canadian North West Company in the fall of 1813, thinking it would be attacked by a British warship.

Part of British Columbia was affected by this event. As a result of subsequent British influence, sovereignty over the territory south of the 49th parallel was not resolved until the boundary was finally settled in 1846.

As well as the travelling exhibit which will be shown at several museums in the region , there will be a commemorative event in Kamloops in 2013, the location of a Pacific Fur Company outpost that was taken over by the North West Company during the War. The Osoyoos Museum looks forward to its part in relating this little-known story to Canadians. For more information about the War of 1812 see 1812.gc.ca

Exhibition of Fine Art Artists of the South Okanagan-Similkameen are presenting “Indulgence”, a group exhibition of paintings at the Shatford Centre, commencing July 2. The show will be on view until August 31st, making “Indulgence” a summer-long place to visit and re-visit with summer guests. The Gallery at Shatford Centre is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. ! An Opening Reception is scheduled for Friday evening, July 6th from 7-9 pm. This gala event is a wonderful opportunity to meet the artists and to see the fine work they will have on display: watercolours, acrylics, encaustic, and oil paintings created by many of the areaʼs popular and respected artists. Everyone is invited to attend the reception -- itʼs a great time to to renew acquaintances or perhaps forge new connections with the art and the artists.

“Indulgence” is supported by the Arts Councils of Penticton, Summerland, Osoyoos and Oliver.

For further information about the exhibit, contact Shatford Centre by phone at 250-770-7668, or email info@ shatfordcentre.com And for information about The Artists of the South Okanagan-Similkameen visit the website www.fca-sos.ca

12 www.oksun.ca

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Meet Our Professionals At Bonnie Doon LAARA HARLINGTEN, MASc.Nutrition, Dipl. Psych. www.vita-quest.com Laara began her interest in Nature Based Therapies at the age of 20.

For the past 36 years she has been passionate about applying the science of food and nature based supplements in healing both physical and emotional ailments. Her lifetime of studies led to her receiving a Master of Science in Nutrition in 2005, diplomas in Sports Nutrition in B.C., Alberta, USA and Australia. She achieved a Diploma with Highest Honours in Adult Psychology.

Laara's specialties are the brain-body connection, and heart Health. She follows the work of Dr. Eric Braverman, and employs the “Braverman Assessment Test” with her clients, to find out which brain chemicals they are dominant in and which ones are low. These brain chemicals determine

the state of our well-being, and can be corrected and balanced using diet and supplements.

Laara also studied with Dr. David Rowland, the creator of the first “Oral Chelation” formula for arte-

rial cleansing. Did you know that the biggest killer of women in Canada are heart attacks and stroke. Taking this to heart, Laara recently added the “Cardio-Scan” equipment to her practice. This is an accurate, non-invasive portable screening device that quickly measures the percentage and degree of arterial blockages in your cardio-vascular system. It generates a report that will tell if you are at risk.

If required, corrective action using unique natural supplements can then be taken. For appointments or further information call 250-495-6313.

ROGER ALAN JOHNSON, Life Coach Roger is our sole male staff member, and brings 40+ years experience in the business, personal development, and success coaching arena. He is a much sought after conference and seminar speaker, and has shared his insights and wisdom with hundreds of audiences throughout western Canada. Combined with his 20+years of study of natural health solutions, he brings a unique and highly effective approach to Living Life to Maximum.

His general knowledge of holistic living, dietary issues and nutritional supplements, along with his under-

standing and insights into male hormonal and health issues, make him a valued member of our store team. At Bonnie Doon Health, Roger takes the guesswork out of choosing the correct vitamin supplements, by utilizing the latest state of the art computer health analysis technology. Our Compass Health Analysis System is a quick 10 minute bio-scanning device that measures and analyzes hundreds of different vitamin mineral, mico-nutrients, and bio-energetic levels in your body.

It then produces a detailed report of the areas of deficiency in your system. From this we are able to more accurately recommend the proper supplements that your body needs to optimize your health levels. There is normally a $40 charge for this testing service, however as a special customer appreciation promotion, we are pleased to offer this service free of charge for July and August. Call to book your appointment today.

CINDY DOUCETTE, local singing sensation Cindy has been with us at Bonnie Doon for the last five years, helping to keep us organized and uplift the spirits of all who she comes in contact with on her days. We take advantage of her skills only one day a week now as she is much sought after in the entertainment sector of the Okanagan.

DIANE NELSON, Owner Diane has over 40 years experience in the natural health field and has studied extensively in all avenues of natural health and bodywork over the years. She appreciates the variety of skills her staff has to offer the community.

We are all here to offer our services to help you toward better health. For more information, drop into Bonnie Doon Health Supplies at 8515A Main Street, Osoyoos B.C. 250-495-6313

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 13

What’s SUP?

By Barbara Mahoney

14 www.oksun.ca

T

he Okanagan waterways are perfect for stand up paddleboarding (SUP).

The sport is very simple, and very fun, but also has a lot of versatility to challenge yourself.

As well, getting fit comes easily with SUP. This could be one of the reasons why SUP is the fastest growing watersport in the world.

Anyone can paddle, but to learn the skills to race on flat water or high seas does take some practice.

Six years ago, while paddling with an old windsurf board and a rowing oar, I wondered where I would get the real gear.

Three years later I flew to Hawaii, learned the sport and even competed in a few races.

I opened up a SUP shop in Osoyoos upon my return to the Okanagan, which helped me to spread the sport across the waterways, and allowed me to watch good people fall in love with the water.

For some, the beauty of SUP is that you never really have to be in the water, but you can spend all day on it. Looking down from the stand up position gives such a clear view of all the lake fish and plants. I've watched beavers swim under my board, and watched osprey touch down to catch fish just meters from my board.

SUP roots are in 1950's Hawaii.

The locals there used their long surf boards and outrigger paddle to stand up and teach the tourists how to surf and to snap a photos of them.

Long before any of us had SUPed, legendary big-wave surfer Laird Hamilton had already standup paddled "Jaws", a bigwave surfing break on Maui's north shore.

Hamilton also paddled the English Channel, the Grand Canyon, and the entire Hawaiian Islands long before there were boards for sale or paddling was considered a sport.

Today, the number of board

companies grows every year.

If you are one of the many who are planning on buying a board, pop into a surf shop for the best information. I have received many calls about boards that people have purchased that do not perform for them, so it is important to buy a board that can be repaired.

This way it does not end up in the landfill.

If you have never tried SUP, what have you got to lose? Don't be detracted by age or fitness level.

Recently, on a rainy cool June morning at 6 am, I was joined on my morning paddle by 83-year-old

Osoyoosite Adrian Theroux.

Although Adrian bikes, hikes, gardens and even does upside down sit-ups from an incline bench (most young people can't do that), he had never tried SUP. Not surprisingly, he loved it.

Adrian was a natural. His response was much the same as everyone else's response, " Where do I get a board, and when can we go again"?

To come for a paddle or learn more about SUP gear, drop into the Feathered Frog at 8317 Main St. in Osoyoos.

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 15

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OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 17

New Book ‘The Cucumber Tree’

by Okanagan Falls Author Margaret Hayes

By Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug

F

ormer South Okanagan Review editor and longtime Ok Falls resident Margaret Hayes may be retired from the newspaper business, but

18 www.oksun.ca

Photo by Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug

she has not slowed down as far as her writing is concerned. Hayes has newly published her seventh book entitled ‘The Cucumber Tree.’ Her second collection of short stories,

it has contributions from other local authors such as her daughter Janey Volden, and writers of varied professions who she has met over a lifetime of travels in Africa, England and Italy.

As Hayes describes it, “they have put into words some of their own experiences; some amusing, some unusual, but all interesting.”

“They’re all true stories,” says Hayes.

“There’s no fiction at all. I don’t write fiction, and I don’t really like fiction ...I like true things.”

Hayes asked each author to send their favourite recipe along with their story as an added point of interest in ‘The Cucumber Tree.’ Most recipes are in keeping with their country of origin or story locale, from British Cornish Pasties to Merende (Italian farmers breakfast) to East African Samaki.

Hayes’s newly written and original stories run the full spectrum, from her childhood years spent in wartime England from which the title of the book is taken, to ‘A Walk on the Wild Side,’ a delightful story about when she had met lion trainer Hubert Wells on the film set of ‘Living Free’ in Africa.

Upon challenging the trainer to ride Thunder, the main huge lion in the film, Hayes writes in this book excerpt: “Hubert climbed onto Thunder’s back and all four of us….walked quietly along the summit of Crescent Island, Thunder’s paws, the size of dinner plates, puffing up thick clouds of dust at each step.”

Hayes has kept up- to date with technological advances over the years in the reading world, including Kindle Fire digital books. But she says there is nothing like holding a real book in your hands, and seeing the words on a “crisp paper page.” “I do prefer a real book, I do,” she says. “I don’t want to take my little pad with me and read it from there. I just want to read a good story in a book with good print.”

As always, 20 percent of her book proceeds go to Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital in Nairobi, which she has had a long association with since her years spent in Africa.

‘The Cucumber Tree’ can be purchased at Okanagan Falls Plus IGA or by contacting Hayes at 250-497-5011.

‘Rocky Bottom Sales’ in Ok Falls

W

hile her mother Margaret Hayes is busy writing books, Janey Volden recently opened up her own store on Main Street in Okanagan Falls. She explains how it all started in November with her husband Bruce, who operates his longtime auto repair business in the back of their building. “He arrived at the back door with a flatbed filled with fridges and stoves and furniture and chairs and stuff. And he said, ‘Here you are, darling, go at it, here’s your new store.’ “ Her reply? “Oh, thank-you, I said, thank-you very much.”

Before she knew what was happening, Janey found herself the proprietor of a secondhand shop in a room adjoining Bruce’s business. She named it, aptly enough, ‘Rocky Bottom Sales,’ with shelves and tables of wares inside, and out front. “We’re selling everything from bikes to kitchen sinks(s), says Volden, who has taken her husband’s idea and run with it. She never knows what her husband is going to turn up with next from the various auctions he attends, which makes things all the more interesting.

Volden has made a special room at the back of the small store for men, although women are welcome as well. “It’s the man cave, and inside we’ve got the tools

and the screws and the garage stuff and bathroom gadgets… ,” she says, and adds with glee “and I have ironing boards for men.”

Everything is organized into categories, and Volden gestures towards a nostalgic item, an old record player with eight track and radio, which she plays in the store. “People are going crazy for records, and I sold two record players last week,” she enthuses, “and I’ve got two (more) people looking for record players.”

The locals from Okanagan Falls are good customers, she says, and adds, “I get them from Oliver, I get them from Penticton, I get them from Australia, England,all over the world.”

Volden is open to offers on any of the merchandise for sale, and in fact welcomes it. “We bargain. I bargained with one guy for half an hour. I love it because I’m from Africa. I know about bargaining,” she laughs. “That’s their main thing, Mexico and Africa.”

“And I’ve got my today’s specials, everything between one and two dollars each,” she notes.

One thing she doesn’t do is accept consignments or buy items from people.

And she is not open on Mondays, that is her day off.

Margaret Haye’s daughter Janey Volden has not been idle either, and although she contributed to her mother’s book, Volden has also stepped into a little venture of her own, in the form of a secondhand store on Main Street in Okanagan Falls.

Photo by Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug

Lidia Ferreira Your Osoyoos real estate connection

Lidia is a lifetime resident of the Okanagan Valley who has a vast appreciation and in-depth knowledge of all the Okanagan has to offer.

lidiasells@gmail.com

(250) 498-7097 lidiasellshomes.net

OSOYOOS, B.C.

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 19

Real Estate Sales In South Okanagan Up 80% Buyers Are Seeking Out Okanagan Lifestyle Local developers and realtors in the South Okanagan have reason to celebrate as sales are up 80% in the first quarter of 2012 compared to 2011.

“Interest rates and housing costs remain attractively low and as a result buyers are starting to see that now is the best time to buy property,” said Jim Gardner of Maximum Modular Builders in Gallagher Lake Village Park, a single family home development located 20 minutes south of Penticton. Jim adds, “The biggest draw to the South Okanagan is the lifestyle. Business owners are choosing to set up satellite offices in the South Okanagan so they can live and

20 www.oksun.ca

work where they play. The region boasts some of the best lakes, wineries, and golf courses in Canada.”

Over the past eight months, Gallagher Lake Village Park has sold 17 homes. “We have had phenomenal momentum with sales and interest from clients from all over British Columbia and Alberta. They are extremely impressed by the quality of our modular homes, particularly at such an attractive low price point,” comments Jim. “Many snowbirds appreciate the security the Canadian health care and banking systems offer, so purchasing a home in Canada’s warmest region is a win/win: spend half the season in Canada and the other half down south,” said Curt Jansen of Bellstar Realty. As of the 2006 census, over 51% of the population in the Okanagan Valley was aged 45 or older and this is projected to increase to 54% by 2036.

“Prices in the South Okanagan are quite reasonable. People can sell their homes in Vancouver, Calgary or Edmonton, buy a home in the Okanagan, and have plenty of cash left over to enjoy a great lifestyle.”

Spirit Ridge Phase 3 “The Residences” in Osoyoos has reported several new sales in the last month and has had a total of 19 sales in the last 6 months.

Curt Jansen the Director of Real Estate Sales and Marketing at Spirit Ridge states, “2012 is setting up to be the leading edge of a market resurgence in the South Okanagan, pulling us out of the bottom of the economic cycle.

The key ingredients influencing this resurgence are reasonable prices, low interest rates, abolition of the HST, increased value of homes in larger centres, and a bulging Baby Boom generation ready to enjoy a warm, safe and secure Okanagan lifestyle.”

Oliver’s Canyon Desert Golf Villas have a total of 13 homes sold since the launch of their project. Recent new home sales for Bellstar in the

South Okanagan alone are close to $14 million. Curt Jansen, also the Director of Sales and Marketing for Canyon Desert, adds, “Both Canyon Desert and Spirit Ridge fall under the Bellstar brand offering attractive designs and features, great quality, good value and Okanagan lifestyle living.”

The Cottages on Osoyoos Lake opened their sales centre on May 12, 2012 and have 16 presales in the last quarter, with 8 coming in the past month alone. Developer, Eric Van Maren comments, “We’ve had a tremendous amount of interest in our project, with over 500 new registrants on our website since February 1, and over 1,500 in total. Affordable waterfront homes suited for both retirees and vacationers is just what our prospects from BC and Alberta are looking for. With site work underway and 4 completed show homes, we expect a great selling season this year!”

“Things are looking up in the south Okanagan. Four very different developments are selling well because people are choosing the Okanagan lifestyle and see great value here,” concluded Eric Van Maren. “We have a wide variety of exceptional quality homes in wonderful communities and very attractive locations with great prices.”

Lifetime Financial Moves To Help Your Children

I

f you’re a parent, you no doubt want to see your children happy and financially secure. And with the end of the school year, your children will pass another milestone – and move one step closer to adulthood.

Consider the following ways to help your children at various stages of their lives.

When your children are young: • Teach them to be savers – Encourage young children to put away part of their allowance. You can even offer to match their contributions dollar for dollar.

• Help them become investors – Consider giving your children a few shares of stock in companies with which they are familiar. By following the movements of their stocks with them, you can explain how the markets work and how increasing share ownership is one key to helping build wealth.

Contribute to an RESP – With a Registered Education Savings Plan, you can put aside money for your children’s post-secondary education. In addition, RESP owners are eligible for the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG).

When your children enter the

working world: • Encourage them to save for the future – A Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is a great retirement savings vehicle. Your children might also consider a TaxFree Savings Account (TFSA).

You can open one, as well – every Canadian resident who has reached the age of majority can contribute up to $5,000 annually to a TFSA. Make long-term care arrangements – If you needed long-term care, such as an extended nursing home stay, and you had inadequate financial preparations, the burden could fall on your children. Now is the time to consult with your financial advisor to begin preparing for possible long-term care costs.

When your children reach middle age: • Communicate your financial situation and estate plans – Don’t leave adult children in the dark as to your financial information.

Share everything you can about how much you own, where you keep your assets and how you plan to eventually distribute them. By clearly communicat-

ing your situation and wishes now, you can avoid major problems later.

• Create a power of attorney – By creating a power of attorney, you can appoint another person, such as an adult child, to conduct your business and financial affairs if you become physically or mentally incapacitated. Such a move can help reduce stress your children may be feeling, while allowing them to make moves that can help preserve your finances.

By following the above suggestions, you can help position your children for financial success throughout their lifetime.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Advisor.

Member – Canadian Investor Protection Fund

MATTHEW R TOLLEY (250) 495-7255 #3-9150 MAIN STREET OSOYOOS, BC V0H 1V2

Brian Moen

BUS: (250) 497-5541

The referral of your friends and family is the greatest compliment you can give me.

837 Main Street, P.O. Box 329 Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R0

PENTICTON: (250) 493-2244 FAX: (250) 497-8449 CELL: (250) 809-6192

24HR. PAGER

brianmoen@royallepage.ca

Thank you for your trust.

REALTOR

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 21

ey

JU C DY W O ith R ’ Ju N S dy E H R ar v

Pulled Pork This is what I call an easy recipe! Perfect for the heat of the summer which we are hoping will appear soon.

Haul out that slow cooker and place:

4 lb. boneless shoulder pork butt roast (readily available) If you don’t see it ask the butcher.

2 cups cider vinegar 1 cup white vinegar 2 cups sweet apple cider Cook it long and slow on your slow cooker cycle. Drain any fat. Let rest for a half hour. Shred with two forks and add: 1 jar of the secret ingredient which is Brian Misko’s House of Q – Apple Butter BBQ Sauce. Heat, stir well & serve.

Frances at Osoyoos Home Hardware has good stock of Brian Misko’s sauces. This freezes well.

Serve it as a meal with coleslaw and potato salad, or as a sandwich on a bun together with coleslaw.

Paul Cecconi from the Local Lounge Grill in Summerland recently did the most awesome Mexican Cooking Class for us. One of his creations was a coleslaw which is the perfect accompaniment for this pork. It is a “to taste recipe” as follows: Chopped: cilantro, carrot, purple cabbage, red pepper and savoy cabbage and finely sliced red onion.

Dressing: Marukan Seasoned Gourmet Rice Vinegar (available in the 710 ml size at Osoyoos Buy-Low), fresh lime juice, grape seed oil, salt and pepper (to taste) Please add dressing just before serving. Paul’s advice was if cut fine – don’t dress too early. For my everyday coleslaw for my dressing I add a splash of this rice vinegar to a dob of mayonnaise and serve. It works.

Great news – shop local!

Our neighbourhood had our annual pot luck supper this past weekend. We were able to get a “fresh turkey” from our local butcher at the Super Valu Store in Oliver. What a bonus this added to the dinner. There is absolutely no comparison between fresh and frozen poultry. This just proves that our vendors are willing to go “the extra mile” for us and we just have to support them. If you don’t see some ingredient that you are seeking – ask the department managers. They want to keep us happy and shopping in the area.

Do you remember Danielle from Baguette and Brioche in Oliver? She is back but in Osoyoos for the season. She has teamed up with the Kettle Candy Company (next to Subway in Osoyoos) It was so thrilling to sink my teeth into her baguette today. She will winter in Quebec.

Check out T2 Market in Oliver. They have renovated their store and carry most of the ethnic foods - Indian, Italian, Japanese, Philippine , Mexican etc.

Couldn’t believe my eyes to see the Mollisana Sauces for my lasagna etc and the crispy fried onions for the butter chicken. They have Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil and so much morel Finally we can save on some gas money.

Frances of Osoyoos Home Hardware has an incredible variety of cherry pitters. The cherry season is fast approaching. Can’t wait for the Norton’s Lapins. Just love to pit and freeze. They are the absolute best with yogurt each morning – nutritious and delicious. We are so lucky to live in this valley.

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estates recently won two World Wide Decanter Awards in London, England for their Entourage Sparkling Chardonnay and their 2007 Library Shiraz. We invite you for a complimentary tasting at the Gallery daily between 9 am and 6 pm. These are Winery Exclusives and if you join the Wine Club you can purchase them at 15% off.

22 www.oksun.ca

JULY

July 1: Grand opening of Kenyon Park in OK Falls. 11am ribbon cutting, Spray Park opening at Noon. Noon-4pm, Canada celebrations, entertainment, birthday cake, Art In The Park.

July 1: Cherry Fiesta Everyone is welcome to attend the 64th Annual Cherry Fiesta in Osoyoos, BC. Food, family fun, Parade, Band Shell Entertainment July 6: Opening reception: Indulgence Fine Art by local painters. 7pm at Shatford Centre, 760 Main St. Penticton.

Exhibit runs from July 2 - Aug 31 July 13-14: Oliver International Sunshine Festival at Oliver Community Park (behind Community Hall). Music, performances and culture for all ages. Friday 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm - live entertainment, a beverage garden and vendors. Saturday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm - Begins with a parade through the heart of Oliver followed by an afternoon of entertainment and activities in the Community Park. (250) 498-4985 for more information.

July: ‘The Artisan Market’ - Saturdays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Artisans of the South Okanagan invite you to come and see displays of their skills and craft at ‘The Artisan Market’. at 522 Fairview Rd. (the front lawn of Medici’s Gelateria & Coffee House), Oliver. Come for the art. Come for the crafts. Come for the people!

July 20: Osoyoos Home Hardware 26th Annual Street Dance. Two per year! July 20th and August 10th 2012. Fun for all the family. www.osoyooshomehardware. ca/street_dances.htm for more details.

July 28: Redeye Empire in concert at Tinhorn Creek. 7pm $35 www.tinhorn. com Pack a picnic, bring a friend, sip award winning wines and dance the night away while enjoying some of the best musical talent Canada has to offer.

July 28: Romancing the Desert - Osoyoos Popular evening fundraiser held each summer during a full moon. Features gourmet food, wine, entertainment and guided tours along the boardwalk.

Proceeds support the Osoyoos Desert Society. For more information visit www. desert.org or call 250-495-2470.

July 28: Art in the Garden10 am to 4 pm.

Four local artists will open their studios and gardens on July 28 & 29 to display their paintings, pottery, photography and quilts. A total of 11 artists will be displaying their art at four locations. For more in and a map of the locations go to http:// www.osoyoosnow.com

Every Monday Alcoholics Anonymous meetings 7 pm St. Anne’s Catholic Church.

Every 3rd Monday Osoyoos Arthritis community group meets at 1pm Osoyoos Health Centre. Everyone welcome. For info call 495-8041 or 495-3554 First Monday Parkinson’s Disease Support Group meets at 1 pm in Osoyoos Health Unit. Maureen 250-495-7978 Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday Kiwanis Club of Oliver meets at noon at the Community Centre. For info call Rosemary at (250) 498-0426 Third Tuesday Soroptimist Osoyoos meet at McKia’s restaurant at Best Western at 6 pm (no meetings July and August) Contact Doris at 250-495-4428.

New members welcome.

Third Tuesday Women of Oliver for Women (WOW) 250-498-0104.

First & Third Tuesdays Osoyoos Quilters meets at Anglican Church Hall at 9 am For more info call 495-4569 First and Third Tuesdays The Oliver Royal Purple Lodge # 63 meet at 7:30 pm at the Oliver Elks Hall. For info call Annie at 498-2170.

Every Tuesday South Okanagan Toastmasters meeting at 7 pm at the Best Western. Call Greg 495-5018.

First & third Tuesday Osoyoos Photography Club meets at 7 pm in meeting room above the Art Gallery. New members welcome! Please contact Don at 250-495-6108 First and Third Wednesday Osoyoos Royal Purple Lodge #240 meets at 7:30

pm at Osoyoos Elks Hall. For info 250495-6748.

First Wednesday and second Thursday O’s Own Writers meet at 10 am (Wednesdays) at 7:30 pm (Thursdays) above the Osoyoos Art Gallery. New members welcome.

Last Wednesday of every month Osoyoos Reiki support group 7 pm at Holistic Desert Connections 250-495-5424 Every Thursday Bingo at 1pm Osoyoos Senior Centre First and third Thursday Kiwanis Club of Osoyoos meets at noon at Cactus Ridge Retirement Residences. For info call Donna at 495-7701.

Second Thursday Multiple Sclerosis group meets from 10 am - noon in the basement of the Community Services Building in Oliver. Call Cathy at 250-4956866.

Thursdays The Rotary Club of Osoyoos meets McKia’s Restaurant in the Best Western Hotel at noon. For details call Bill Collins at (250) 495-6522.

Every Thursday Desert Sage Spinners & Weavers drop-in at Oliver Community Centre between 10 am and 3 pm. Info call 498 6649.

First & Third Thursday Osoyoos Lake Lions Club meets at 7 pm at Jack Shaw Gardens Building. 250-495-2993 Every Thursday Oliver & Osoyoos Search & Rescue. 7 pm at Oliver SAR hall. www.oosar.org.

Every Friday night, Osoyoos Elks invites you to play Bingo. Doors open at 5 pm Bingo starts at 7 pm.

July’s Artist:

Renee Matheson Our featured artist for the Month of July is Aurrora Renee Matheson. She will have the front room walls covered with her art. Renee’s inspirations have come from living in Mexico for seven years and devoting her time to painting while there. She also visits Spain several times a year and paints on ten day excursions.

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday 6046 Main Street, Oliver 778 439 3320 www.oliverartgallery.ca

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 23

tour of the goat herd is included. Contact carol@look.ca Community Futures Okanagan Similkameen recently held their 27th Annual General Meeting and is pleased to announce the Board of Directors for 2012. There are two new additions to this year’s Board; Janet Willson will represent the community of Summerland and Jennifer Gorman will represent the Okanagan College.

2012 Board of Directors: Chair, Linda Larson – Oliver Vice Chair, Barb Sheppard – Penticton Treasurer, Jeff Rowe – Keremeos Secretary, Ron Britton – Naramata Director, Ben Amos – Penticton Director, George Stayberg – Penticton Director, Jack Lank – Penticton Director, Jane Coady – Penticton Director, Janet Willson – Summerland Director, Jaymie Atkinson - Princeton Director, Jennifer Gorman – Okanagan College Director, Jim King – Osoyoos Director, Rory McIvor – Penticton Community Futures organizations have been dedicated to promoting rural economic development for over 25 years. We offer financing, training, and advisory services for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the Okanagan Similkameen region. For more information please call our office at 250-493-2566 or 1-877-493-5566.

Local tourism programs are getting a boost from the province. Six local communities, including Osoyoos, Oliver and Okanagan Falls are eligible to receive a total of $71,600 for projects that help grow tourism. The funding comes from our government’s Community Tourism Opportunities (CTO) program administered by regional destination marketing organizations. In all six communities it is administered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. “These six communities all have great attractions and are great places to spend a vacation,” said Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater. “This funding is intended to help them get the word out, attract tourism traffic, and have the opportunity to share and experience the Boundary Similkameen.” Tourism is one of the key economic sectors identified in Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan, and The Province’s new tourism strategy builds on the Jobs Plan, providing a framework for government and industry to work together to attract more visitors and create jobs for British Columbians. This is the fifth year the CTO program has been in operation, and it has grown in popularity each year.

Okanagan Falls Parks & Recreation welcomes the Sundquist family to Kenyon Park as the first official beach concessionary. Lunch or treats at the beach will be a delicious option as of mid-June.

Medici’s Gelateria and Coffee House in Oliver is now licensed. Come for a glass of local wine or a yummy B52 coffee on the patio. Now also making gelato cakes to order.

The South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome the following new members: McKia’s Restaurant in Osoyoos is available for private or semi-private events. This venue allows for a unique and impressive setting for special events such as rehearsal dinners, cocktail receptions, corporate events, staff parties, birthday parties, happy hours, wine tastings and convention lunches, brunches, and dinners.

Best Western Plus Peppertree Inn at Omak is now accepting Canadian Certified debit cards. They offer free breakfast and free parking. All of their rooms are oversized with flat screen High Definition televisions, microwaves and refrigerators. They are now offering 10% off their Best Available Rate for South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce Members. Please call your Chamber at 250.498.6321 ext 1 and ask for the code to access this incredible offer.

Dumont Ranch – Garden Gate Nubians & Rock Mountain Guest House All the animals in the herd are tested CAE free. They are also CL free and abscess free. The babies are handraised on pasteurized milk and are always kept separate from the adults. This summer we have opened the Rock Mountain Guest House. The views are spectacular and complete privacy is guaranteed. For those interested, a

Community Futures Okanagan Similkameen helps individuals start or expand their businesses and fosters partnerships that help create a strong and diverse economy. Services offered to the community include: • • • • • •

Community Economic Development Initiatives Confidential Business Counselling Business Plan Assistance Business Workshops Self-Employment Program Business Financing

102 – 3115 Skaha Lake Road, Penticton, BC V2A 6G5 P: 250-493-2566 F: 250-493-7966 info@cfokanagan.com

24 www.oksun.ca

The Open Championship

GOLF TIPS

By Derek Highley

M

y favorite time of the golf year has arrived. It’s a close contest, but I would have to say that the four days of The Open Championship for me just barely beats out Masters Week.

So what makes The Open championship so great? Where do you start? First off, there are the courses. Here in North America, very rarely do we get to see the type of land over which The Open Championship is contested. This week we will go from watching the best in the world play on lush, green and incredibly manicured parkland- like playing surfaces; to seeing them battle on firm, unkept looking, pasture- like links land.

It gives us all the urge to adjust the color of our television sets in search of any shade of green at all.

Not in any other major championship do course conditions and

Mother Nature play a bigger role.

On the British Isles both of these elements can change quickly, dramatically and often over the course of a day. The drama at The Open increases when the wind is howling, and it would almost be disappointing to not see at least a little drizzle throughout the four days.

It is because of these conditions that we are treated to a different brand of golf, one that effectively brings the game out of the air and onto the ground. At the Open Championship players are forced to hit shots that they are not used to playing, and that require much more imagination then simply throwing the ball at the flagstick week in and week out.

And then you have the television coverage. I love the fact that when I wake up in the morning my DVR already has over an hour of golf waiting for me to consume. I can’t think of a better way to start my

day then with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and The Open Championship in high def. The added bonus of early morning coverage is that after taking in a complete day of golf on TV, there is still ample time to head out and get in an actual 18 holes.

A big story this year at Royal Lytham & St. Anne's in Lancashire England, as always of course, will be Tiger Woods. He put together two very good early rounds at the U.S. Open last month to put him at the top of the leaderboard before fading over the weekend. He has been showing flashes of the dominating form that we had been so accustomed to seeing prior to his “fall from grace." These glimpses of excellence will surely make him one of the odds- on favourites this year so it would hardly be a bad play to put a “fiver” down on him to once again hoist the Claret Jug come Sunday.

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 25

This Desert Life

At The Osoyoos Desert Centre

By Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug

T

he scent of sagebrush is stronger after a heavy rainfall at the Osoyoos Desert Centre, and this year in June especially so, with more than usual precipitation. Michelle Lancaster, Education Coordinator of the centre, reaches down from the boardwalk and picks a bit of the sage and rubs it gently with her fingers, releasing the pungently pleasing aroma. On summer days, Lancaster guides visitors regularly along the 1.5 kilometres boardwalk through this desert site, inhabited by unique flora and fauna not found anywhere elsewhere in Canada.

The Osoyoos Desert Society first opened the 67-acre desert interpretive centre north of Osoyoos in 1998, as a place where visitors can learn about this ‘pocket desert,’ which has been declared one of the four most endangered ecosystems in Canada.

At the beginning of the boardwalk, there is work in progress, a colourful native plant garden featuring many local species, including grasses, flowers and shrubs. “It will be really nice when it’s done, we’ll have a little patio area,” says Lancaster. Next to the garden are some newly installed wooden benches for visitors to picnic at and enjoy the desert scenery, with

26 www.oksun.ca

Osoyoos Lake visible in the distance.

A little further along the boardwalk is a new breeding pond for the native Spadefoot, with new deck and informative signage overlooking it.

The Spadefoot is just one example of an endangered amphibian inhabiting the desert here, with its unique spade feet that dig into the ground where it lives. One-quarter of the Red-listed species (endangered) and more than half of the Blue-listed (vulnerable) vertebrates are found here, as well as more than 100 rare plant species and 300 rare invertebrates. The region has one of the highest concentrations of at-risk species in Canada.

‘Tumbling’ knapweed ”Further along Lancaster points out a shrub that the centre’s staff and other conservation-minded people would like to see less of, the invasive knapweed. She explains that it is basically a tumbleweed. “It’s the one that you see in Western movies tumbling across, and it’s got like almost a burr on the seed head so it can stick to your clothing or animal’s fur.” More pleasing to the eye are the white yarrow, purple Mariposa Lily and Prickly Pear cactus that are in bloom at this

time of year. “Every time you come here, you’ve got something different blooming,” says Lancaster. The dark green spreading Antelope Brush with its yellow blooms acts as a kind of protection for some of the animals, and as Lancaster explains, “they (the brushes) grow out rather than up.”

Hence it acts as desert tree of sorts, with one at the centre dating to almost 100-years-old. Lancaster picks several seeds, squishing them to show the red liquid inside, once used as a dye by First Nations people.

Birder’s paradise…

The land here is a birder’s paradise, and has been home to more than 60 species of birds recorded over a decade at the centre. “In this bluebird box here, we have about five little baby bluebirds …,” points out Lancaster, with feeders nearby attracting Black-chinned, Calliope and Rufous hummingbirds. The blue boxes are among the more than 6,000 boxes that have been distributed by the Southern Interior Bluebird Trail Society.

A couple of visitors on the boardwalk ahead are hunched over a guidebook and taking a self-guided

tour. They are from Germany and this is their first time in Canada. “It’s nice, many animals,” laughs the man, who notes there is nothing anything like this in their homeland.

He makes mention of the unseasonably damp weather here, saying jokingly, “When the weather is better, we can more enjoy it.” The centre attracts thousands of visitors every year, and provides self-guided translations in German, Dutch, Japanese and French. “We actually are noticing a steady increase in guests, so that’s really good for us,” comments Lancaster. “You meet people from all over the world here.”

Lancaster is a good fit for the centre, and the society’s mission to help conserve the South Okanagan’s unique and diverse habitats.

“I started here just kind of as a summer guide. I’m the education coordinator for the centre now, so I do a lot of the school groups and the programs. And I love it, it’s really fun. And you can’t complain when you get to be outside for the majority of the day.”

Visitors to Osoyoos’s desert often expect to see snakes, and indeed, it has B.C.’s highest diversity of reptiles including seven species of snakes such as yellow-bellied racers, and of course rattlesnakes. “We don’t really see rattlesnakes too often here. I’ve worked here for four years and I’ve never seen a rattlesnake on our site. They prefer more of a south facing slope and we don’t have that here,” comments Lancaster. But visitors do sometimes see wildlife.

The desert land at the centre is inhabited by mule deer, cottontails, coyotes, to name a few and with the addition of nighttime tours, visitors may spot bats and owls. “We actually saw just a coyote pup the other day, just a little guy,” says Lancaster.

The Osoyoos Desert Society is a non-profit group supported through donations, government grants and fundraisers. Their popular ‘Romancing The Desert’ fundraising event takes place every July when guests experience a stroll along the boardwalk, paired with local wines and internationally-inspired cuisine and musical entertainment, all under the light of a full moon. Lancaster says it is “primarily community which come out to our event, which is so great to see the same faces coming each year.”

There is also a solar-powered indoor interpretive facility at the centre, with hands-on exhibits and a gift shop. For hours and other additional information go to www.desert.org

Romancing The Desert On Saturday, July 28th the Osoyoos Desert Society will be hosting its annual Romancing the Desert fundraiser. Held each summer under a full moon, the event showcases the area’s unique desert habitat along with the gourmet delights of local restaurants and wineries. This year’s event features an international theme, with globally-inspired cuisine and a specially-themed guided tour along the Desert Centre’s 1.5 km boardwalk. While on tour, guests stop at stations along the way to sample local wines and tasty appetizers. Following the tour, guests will be invited to enjoy more savory selections and decadent desserts at the Main Plaza. Live music with an international beat, and a silent auction, round out the magical moonlit evening.

More than a dozen local restaurants and wineries will be on hand, donating their products and time to provide guests with a one-of-a-kind experience. “The community support is incredible,” notes Desert Society Executive Director, Denise Eastlick. “Thanks to our restaurant and winery partners, and the support of local businesses and volunteers, the Society is able to give our guests a memorable evening in a beautiful desert setting.

Romancing the Desert is the Desert Society’s major fundraiser and proceeds from the event support the Society’s efforts to conserve at-risk habitats, including the South Okanagan’s antelope-brush ecosystem. This unique desert environment ranks as one of the most endangered ecosystems in the country. The Osoyoos Desert Society was formed to help restore and conserve local habitats and, through education, inspire active concern for fragile and endangered ecosystems worldwide.

Romancing the Desert takes place at the Osoyoos Desert Centre on July 28, 2012 from 6:00 pm to midnight.

Tickets are available for $65 per person and must be purchased in advance. To reserve a space, contact mail@ desert.org or call 250-495-2470 (1-877-899-0897 toll free).

OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 27

The Biggest Mistake In Trying To Lose Belly Fat

By Jorg Mardian

T

he biggest mistake in trying to lose belly fat is doing the wrong type of exercise (such as an excessive focus on abs), and not having a proper food intake. No matter how toned your abs are, your belly won't look flat until you get rid of the layer of fat on top of them. For that, you need to either rev up your calorie burn through more intelligent training methods or eat cleaner with fewer calories.

When discussing training, it's imperative to realize early on that you can't burn fat from a specific body part by excessively training that particular body region. In general, abdominal workouts as a whole don't burn a lot of fat. Interval training, on the other hand, is a great way to increase your calorie burn, even after exercising. With this training method, you alternate high-intensity bursts of activity with easier bouts, helping to blast more belly fat than steady-state moderate workouts.

Here are a few examples of exercises that will help you burn fat: 1. Squat Jumps: go into a deep squat and on the way back up jump high while bending your knees toward your chest. This one will work your body from top to bottom and get your heart rate jumping. It's not an exercise for everyone, especially if you have bad knees or are incapable of performing such an exercise. But it works lethally for those who can do it. Otherwise, perhaps squat and do a small hop, or barring this, simply squat and stand. But keep doing the exercise in an interval fashion.

2. Renegade Rows - Take two dumbbells and place them on the floor at shoulder width. Put one hand on each dumbbell and go into a push up position. In a rowing motion, lift one dumbbell and pull it back with your elbow rising to the ceiling and past your body. You're now supporting your body with one hand and your feet. Lower the dumbbell gently to the floor and repeat with the other hand. This is one repetition. now do 8-10 repetitions and take a short rest, repeating the sequence 4-5 times. This exercise works as a core and back stabilizer, as well as hitting the biceps, shoulders and forearms.

3. Burpees - To do a proper burpee, you need to do a push up, jump to bring both legs toward your hands, straighten up, and jump high into the air. Reverse this sequence on the way down. This is one repetition. If you have trouble with this variation, then simply put your hands on the ground, step back with both feet, step forward again with both and stand, doing a small hop. Either way, do in an interval fashion and repeat a good number of times to get thoroughly tired, according to your fitness level.

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Clean eating is also is a crucial component of fat loss. I find that most people do not have the initiative, ability or the time to keep training at a high level for long periods of time, which means they have to eat smart and train moderately, for shorter periods of time. Therefore combine shorter periods of interval training (15-30 minutes) with foods that have high nutrient, high fibre and low-calorie counts. These are usually foods which are natural, so focus on smaller and unrefined portions of carbohydrates each meal, including proteins, healthy fats and fruits.

Such foods include oatmeal, berries, beans/legumes, lean protein like turkey, greens like spinach, fiber and almonds and other nuts. Some of these are great flat belly foods, and should be included in any fat loss diet. Avoid canned and boxed foods which are little more than belly fat fertilizer. They generally contain rancid fats, chemicals, and over undesirable elements in them.

So there you have it - a lifestyle change that is effective and fits your busy schedule. Try it for better results.

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Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit, as must every column, and every 3X3 square.

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OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 29

Garden Talk With Lloyd Park Part II

B

efore very long, I got into growing plants because I really liked that end of it. Don Sovland had lots of glad bulbs that he had used for forcing in the greenhouse, so I bought all those all those little bulblettes.

I stripped the sod off of a lot that I rented on Witlow Street, worked all the soil up, trenched and planted them all out two inches apart. I fertilized them well and kept them well watered by hand, of course, and that started me in the gladiolas business.

Pretty soon, I had saleable bulbs and I started selling bulbs to all the other nurseries for forcing. We took the blooms off of them to swell the bulb size up so they were perfect for forcing and would produce a number one flower the first year. By the time I was 12, I had 50,000 glads and I was producing a major part of the cut flowers for the florist industry.

In about 1945, we were getting $1 a dozen for big glads in a bunch delivered to town. During the next three years I continued selling door to door.

The second year, I started selling bedding plants in dozen packs to the homes as well. And that being hard packing around, because the only

people really doing this were two Chinese people. In the end, I became good friends with them because I didn't go in any of the areas they sold in and they didn't go in the areas I sold in. All three of us sold at the same prices to the homeowners and delivered really fresh plants. Every night after school I would do a run on so many houses I found that I needed something better than packing.

I didn't have the two big baskets like the Chinese did, so with the help of my friend, I made a trailer for my bicycle which would hold about $35 retail worth of plants. That's what I would load up after school and deliver to the homes. Of course, nothing was in containers those days. They were grown in open flats and needed to be

JOHN SLATER, MLA Boundary Similkameen

8312 - 74th Avenue Ph: 250 495-2042 P.O. Box 1110 2077 Fax: 250 495-2042 Osoyoos, BC Toll Free: 1 877 652-4304 V0H 1V0 john.slater.mla@leg.bc.ca www.johnslatermla.bc.ca

30 www.oksun.ca

dug up, wrapped in wet newspaper and then dry newspaper and then tied so they didn't fall apart. On top of this trailer I put a couple of flats where I would put my stuff in colour.

I enjoyed growing Pansies. I would wrap them up and sell them for 25 cents each. Great big field grown plants that people really enjoyed.

That was a colour that often made people come out of their stores to see what I had. This I continued to do all through grade school and up until about grade 10. In February of grade 11, I quit school and started selling for the growers full-time. The company I started was called Growers Wholesale, which became the middle man.

I sold even to the Chinese pedlars. I would deliver their stuff to their home and save them walking the three miles from town and back again. The large boxes were not allowed on the busses.

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OKANAGAN SUN • JULY 2012 • 31

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32 www.oksun.ca