Boulevard Magazine, Okanagan - May/June 2019

OK ANAGAN

MAY I JUNE 2019

LIFE AT ITS FINEST

AHEAD OF THE PACK The Influencers: business people who inspire

A HOME FOR THE AGES Sophisticated, welcoming and built to be lived in for generations to come

HIGH ROAD TO THE ARCTIC

Photographer Darren Hull’s “bucket list” journey on the Dempster Highway

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CONTENTS 18

76 FEATURES

On the Cover Photo by Darren Hull Influencer Christy Lovig with her timber wolf Axel, photographed at the Kelowna Yacht Club

34 A HOME FOR THE AGES

88 MILK IT!

Sophisticated, welcoming and built to be lived in for generations to come

The miracle of coconut milk

By Chef Heidi Fink

By Valaura Jones

76 UNTAMED SPIRIT THE INFLUENCERS

Resort fashion that is as feminine as it is carefree.

42

By Lia Crowe

94 HIGH ROAD TO THE ARCTIC

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A ‘bucket list” journey on the Dempster Highway

By Darren Hull

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SPECIAL SECTION 42 THE INFLUENCERS

Business people making

a difference in the Okanagan

By Sean McIntyre/Darren Hull

24

42

16

DEPARTMENTS 10 OUR CONTRIBUTORS 14

EDITOR’S LETTER

Serendipity, fate, destiny or coincidence?

By Susan Lundy

16

inspiredSTYLE

Angela Roy

By Lia Crowe

18

inspiredEATS

24 inspiredINTERIORS

102 TRAVEL NEAR

Form + Function

By Justin O’Connor

Whales and other Wonders: Glamping in the Broughton Archipelago

By Suzanne Morphet

28 INSPIREDPEOPLE

Something old, something new Sandy Zeleznik

106 FRONT ROW

What’s on

By David Wylie

By Brenda Giesbrecht

84 TALKING WITH TOBY

Play Winery: Infused with

love (and wine)

By Angela Cowan

110 SECRETS AND LIVES

Lady of the Lake: Jane Hoffman

Building Dreams: Kim Larson

By Toby Tannas

By Lauren Kramer

20 inspiredHEALTH

114 BEHIND THE STORY

Saving Face

By Pamela Durkin

By Izabel Kazenbroot-Guppy

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OURCONTRIBUTORS

LIA CROWE BOULEVARD STAFF: UNTAMED SPIRIT

“There was no end to the inspiration while shooting our fashion story in Tofino at the Wickaninnish Inn. There were magical forests dripping with rain, windy beaches and golden sunsets.”

Lia is a stylist, creative director, photographer and writer.

OKANAGAN

L I F E AT I T S F I N E S T

PAGE 76

M AY/J U N E 2019

DON DENTON PHOTOGRAPHER: MILK IT!

PAGE 88

JEN CLARK MAKEUP ARTIST: UNTAMED SPIRIT

PAGE 76

ANGELA COWAN WRITER: INSPIRED EATS

PAGE 18

HEIDI FINK WRITER: MILK IT!

PAGE 88

“I love coconut so in this issue’s food assignment with Chef Heidi Fink, it was particularly challenging to keep my focus on the photography rather than the sampling of ingredients and dishes. Luckily, there was time to taste test all the dishes at the end. A personal eyeopener was the simple addition — with a heavenly result — of coconut to rice pudding.” Don has photographed numerous high-profile events, including the Olympics, World Hockey Championships and a Royal wedding.

“One model, three days (in paradise) and six looks allows for the creative juices to flow. It’s not the first time I’ve been fortunate enough to work with our model, Kim Noseworthy. She can pull off such versatility, which I love!

Rather than getting complacent with makeup on an extended shoot, Kim inspires me to go deeper and find ways to bend the rules.” Jen is a Victoriabased makeup artist.

“It was a delight chatting with Bill about incorporating wine with Play Winery’s new menu, and I’m excited to try my hand at making his exquisite-sounding beet salad!” Angela Cowan is an awardwinning writer and freelance editor who contributes regularly to Boulevard. Find her on Twitter @angela_m_cowan.

“The chance to show off coconut milk’s wonderful culinary capacities has me really excited. It was fun to share the recipes with the photographer, director and the host of this month’s photo shoot. Even more fun is sharing my favourite coconut milk ’hacks’ in this issue’s article.” Heidi Fink is a chef, food writer and culinary instructor, specializing in local foods and ethnic cuisines.

GROUP PUBLISHER Penny Sakamoto

PUBLISHER Mario Gedicke

250.891.5627 info@blvdmag.ca

EDITOR Susan Lundy ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lia Crowe CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan

DESIGN Lorianne Koch Michelle Gjerde Cara Robbins Tammy Robinson ADVERTISING Mario Gedicke Vicki Clark

CONTRIBUTING Lia Crowe

WRITERS

Pamela Durkin Heidi Fink Brenda Giesbrecht Darren Hull Valaura Jones Lauren Kramer Sean McIntyre Justin O’Connor Toby Tannas David Wylie

CONTRIBUTING Lia Crowe PHOTOGRAPHERS Don Denton

Darren Hull Colin Jewel Byron Kane

CIRCULATION & Brian Gold

DISTRIBUTION 250.763.7575

Victoria Boulevard ® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624 info@blvdmag.ca boulevardmagazines.com

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Keeping it Simple®

THE SWEET TASTE OF SUCCESS Locals and visitors to the North Okanagan have been indulging in delicacies from Sweet Caroline’s Bakery for more than 20 years. Just as customers trust the quality of their delicious baked goods, the team at Sweet Caroline’s Bakery trusts the expert advice they receive from Valley First.

At just $30 per month, every month, Valley First’s Unlimited Chequing for Business® account allows businesses like Sweet Caroline’s Bakery to focus on creating delicious treats and growing their business rather than worrying about their bank fees.

See the full story: valleyfirst.com/SweetCarolines

Bank. Borrow. Insure. Invest.

BRENDA GIESBRECHT

DARREN HULL

WRITER: FRONT ROW

PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER: HIGH ROAD TO THE ARCTIC

PAGE 106 “Again and again, I’m struck by the rich bounty of art, music, theatre and cultural events available in Okanagan — something that complements the beauty of the landscape and diversity of people. When friends and family come to visit, I’m reminded that I am very fortunate to live here.

I hope you are reminded of that as well, with the events I’ve selected for this issue’s Front Row.” Brenda has been writing for many years, in addition to doing graphic design, book production and fibre arts.

PAGE 94

“The Dempster Highway was one of the hardest road trips I have ever done, and I am already planning my return trip back this September.

The North is a place I need to understand further.” Darren is an editorial and commercial photographer, who has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s top image makers, with work informed by a strong sense of storyline.

VALAURA JONES

LAUREN KRAMER

WRITER: A HOME FOR THE AGES

WRITER: BUILDING DREAMS

PAGE 110

PAGE 34

“It’s uncommon to walk into a million-dollar lake house that truly feels like home. Standing in the kitchen, it’s not hard to see why Bern and Donna plan to make it their primary residence as the grandkids grow up.” Valaura is a writer, marketer and community enthusiast with a passion for great design and unusual spaces.

SEAN MCINTYRE

JUSTIN O’CONNOR

WRITER: THE INFLUENCERS

WRITER: FORM + FUNCTION

PAGE 42

PAGE 24

“I have many great memories of spending a good part of my early summers with family in the Okanagan Valley. Working on The Influencers feature has underlined how eclectic, diverse and sophisticated this spectacular region has become.” Sean McIntyre is a freelance writer based on Salt Spring Island.

“I am truly fortunate to be invited into some of the most beautiful homes in the Okanagan, and this house was no exception. This home combines exquisite design and functionality, and it left me feeling tranquil.” Justin is the Senior Vice President, Sales in Kelowna for Sotheby’s International Realty Canada and President of the Canadian Home Builder’s Association, Central Okanagan.

TOBY TANNAS

DAVID WYLIE

WRITER: LADY OF THE LAKE

WRITER: SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW

PAGE 84

“You know her name, you’ve likely seen her face, now learn more about what drives one of Kelowna’s top real estate agents. Jane Hoffman’s story is both tragic and inspiring.” A broadcast veteran, Toby Tannas co-hosts ‘Beach Mornings with Ara & Toby’ on Kelowna’s New 103.1 Beach Radio. She’s a mother to two teenage girls and two four-legged kids.

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“I loved discovering the personality behind the powerhouse when I interviewed Kim Larson, owner of All Elements Design. Manage.

Build. in Kelowna.” A Richmond-based writer and mother of four, South African native Lauren Kramer writes about food, travel and living life to the fullest in the Pacific Northwest.

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“When we combine our talents and our passions, work doesn’t feel like work. Sandy Zeleznik’s unique venture writing custom wedding songs brings her joy and inspiration.” David Wylie has done just about every job there is to do in a newsroom. He’s a freelance writer and publisher of a well-read blog about the Canadian cannabis industry.

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EDITOR’SLETTER

Serendipity, fate, destiny or coincidence?

BY SUSAN LUNDY

E

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

very once in a while (eventually my first husband) and we’re a bit of serendipity comparing stories. There’s a 12-year age occurs that makes difference between us and so when I you wonder about was eating Kraft Dinner and watching the mysterious Sesame Street in my childhood home, he ways in which the and his first wife were out there living the universe unfolds.

Bohemian lifestyle. He explains that when Or perhaps you’d call it fate, destiny or the two of them first came to the coast mere coincidence. Let me give you some from Ontario, they set up a teepee and examples. lived for a few months at Little Qualicum Most recently, Boulevard’s Lia Crowe Falls. And — you can probably guess was styling a photo shoot with Inspired where I’m going with this — they had an People subject Jennifer Schell. Things felt Old English Sheepdog. Again … our paths familiar. Had they met before? The shoot had crossed many years earlier. got underway and photographer Darren Are these events serendipitous? Or are Hull captured some gorgeous images of they fate, destiny or coincidence — and Jennifer holding her two dogs, one of what’s the difference? I had to know. As which was an aging dachshund. It wasn’t it turns out, serendipity is a “lucky or until a day or so later that it twigged. Years positive coincidence;” fate is a series of ago, Jennifer was working in Vancouver “predetermined events, with implications with a pet magazine that hired Lia to of some underlying plan or logic;” model for it. Jennifer was able to find the coincidence is when “two things line up by very magazine in which Lia had been featured — and she’s holding meaningless chance;” and destiny implies “big and positive things that same dachshund as a puppy! What are the chances? fated for a given individual.”

Here are two of mine. A few summers ago, my husband’s first Most people’s lives include some element of serendipity, fate, wife dropped off a batch of photos she’d been meaning to give destiny or coincidence, and that’s part of the reason we enjoy him. He eagerly perused the stack of reading their stories. images, most of which featured him and And indeed, this issue of Boulevard Are these events his kids when they all lived in Calgary. delves into the stories of many people, serendipitous? Or are they both in our regular features — meet But one image was of Bruce and his daughter — who was about seven years fate, destiny or coincidence Jane Hoffman, Kim Larson, Sandra old at the time — standing on a dock on Zeleznik and Angela Roy — and our — and what’s the Salt Spring Island, just down the road special section, The Influencers, which from where my girls grew up. difference? I had to know. introduces a number of people in the “Great photo!” I smiled. Then, Okanagan business community. looking at the distinct red swim suits Readers of this edition will also worn by the two little girls in the background, I added, “Looks tour two beautiful homes, visit a winery with a new, winelike a couple of Salt Spring swim-teamers in there as well.” infused menu, travel to Tofino for an exquisite display of Then — “Wait a minute! Those are definitely swim team girls!

Okanagan fashion and take a “bucket list” journey with Those are my girls!”

Boulevard photographer Darren Hull to the edge of the Arctic My daughters were in the background of the image, almost Circle. certainly proving that Bruce and my paths crossed at least once in Chef Heidi Fink shows off the versatile splendours of coconut the 10 years before we actually met. milk; health writer Pamela Durkin looks at ways to smooth and The next story may be the weirdest of them all. I have this soothe aging skin; while Brenda Giesbrecht reveals upcoming memory from my childhood, which occurred in the early 1970s as events in the world of Okanagan arts and entertainment.

I camped with my family at Little Qualicum Falls on Vancouver We hope you enjoy this edition!

Island. As we splashed about in one of the river’s pools, we As for me, I’ll continue to look for tales of serendipity, fate, suddenly saw an Old English Sheepdog float by. It was caught in destiny or coincidence — happenings that hint at the mysteries of the current and its owners were desperately trying to retrieve it. I the universe. Or, perhaps, just events that make a good story. vividly recall the incident because my parents were disgusted by it: Susan Lundy has been writing stories since she was six years old. not so much by the situation itself but because it was the early 70s She has a degree in creative writing from the University of Victoria, and the main players were a pair of much-maligned and dreaded and after working for many years as an award-winning journalist, is “hippies.” now a magazine editor, author and freelance writer.

Fast forward 13 years or so and I’m with my new boyfriend 14

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inspired inspiredSTYLE STYLE

with

Angela Roy MANAGING DIRECTOR AND LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE JANE HOFFMAN GROUP

BY LIA CROWE

READING MATERIAL

WHAT DO YOU READ ONLINE FOR STYLE: The Zoe Report.

FAV PRINT MAGAZINE:

Harvard Business Review.

LAST GREAT READ: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek. BOOK CURRENTLY READING: Dare to Lead by Brene Brown. FAVOURITE BOOK OF ALL TIME: The

Untethered Soul by Michael Singer.

FASHION & BEAUTY

UNIFORM: Blazer, cami, jeans and heels. ALL-TIME FAVOURITE PIECE: A vintage black onyx ring. “It wasSTYLE the first ring my grandfather gave my grandmother.”

INSPIRATION / CURRENTLY COVETING: The “Pelat” LIFE trenchFAVOURITE coat by Wilfred.

CAR:FAVOURITE “My fave car to Black suede PAIRisOF SHOES: drive Firebird, but the dream carTassle that to me is a piece of art,FAVOURITE is the Aston Martin db9. It’s DAY-BAG: Pumps

by Maje.

CELEBRITY HAS justBlack a really prettyWeitzman car.” ICONIC FAVOURITE Stuart Shopping satchel.WHO INSPIRED YOUR Steve McQueen.

Moleskine day journal. FAVOURITE I’ve been using WORK TOOL: “ASTYLE: FILM LOVE FOR ITS STYLE: Bond something during the Sean themYOU for years and have kept them James all; there’s cool Connery and Roger Moore years. LAST GREAT READ: Time Now about writing your life out each day.” FAVOURITE JEWELLERY for the Vinyl Cafe Story Exchange by Stuart McLean. FAVOURITE PIECE OR DESIGNER: “My custom engagement ring from LOCAL RESTAURANT: “Momo’s Sushi and Waterfront Wines are Cavalier in Gastown.” ACCESSORY YOU SPEND THE a good go-to, to fit different occasions. It’s really hard to list this today Earrings; can around instantly change MOST MONEY ON: as Kelowna seems to“have a new they favourite every corner.”

NECESSARY INDULGENCE FOR your whole look.”

FAVOURITE COCKTAIL/WINE: Tantalus Old Vines Riesling. shoes EITHER ON FASHION OR BEAUTY: “Timeless ALBUM CURRENT ROTATION: Changing Colours by SCENT: Gord Miss Downie are worthFAVOURITE the investment.”

MUSICIAN: the always Sheep Dogs.

FAVOURITE HAIR CITY TO VISIT: from Hip. MUST-HAVE DiorThe EauTragically De Parfum.

Vancouver, BC. “I Kerastase love walking the downtown Elixir Ultime. or running the PRODUCT: FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WHOLE seawall.”

BEAUTY SECRET: Being in love.

WORLD: Kelowna. “I was born here, studied here and I’m lucky to work here. Every year, Kelowna seems to get better and better as it grows and creates is own unique style.”

A

s Angela and I meet to chat at Canoe Coffee Roasters, I ask her where her favourite place is in the whole world. Her answer? “Anywhere with my dog and my man.”

Angela was born in Smithers, but grew up in Kelowna. “I’ve tried moving away, but always come back. Kelowna will always be home to me.”

While getting her LL.B and MBA at the University of Saskatchewan, Angela played on the women’s hockey team. “It was an amazing experience,” she says. “Playing any sport at a high level exposes you to opportunities that you otherwise wouldn’t have, like travelling and meeting new people. I think that hockey was an outlet for my competitive edge. Once I quit playing, I realized that it wasn’t the game that made me competitive, it was something that lives in me. Now, instead of a competitive sport to fill that void, I just find new ways to challenge myself.”

Asked what fires her up about her work with the Jane Hoffman Group, she says, “It lights me up when I get to work with other people who are truly passionate about what they do ...

I find other people’s passion contagious.”

And what’s the best advice she’s ever been given? “It’s something that is captured in a quote that sticks with me: ‘How you do anything is how you do everything.’ I think this speaks to integrity and the importance of being honest and consistent with your actions, which is something my Dad taught me.”

When it comes to style, it’s all about confidence for Angela: “I find I will more often notice someone’s confidence than the brand of clothing they are wearing.”

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STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE

STYLE ICON: Either Jennifer Aniston or Meghan Markle (Duchess of Sussex Meghan over Rachel from Suits Meghan, but both are on point). PIECE OF ART: A piece my brother bought for me by an artist named Jackie Miller in Saskatchewan. FAVOURITE MUSICIAN: Chris Martin from Coldplay: “Insane talent.” FILM OR TV SHOW THAT INSPIRES YOUR STYLE OR THAT YOU JUST LOVE THE STYLE OF: “Claire Underwood from House of Cards. Her character is questionable but her style is classic.” FAVOURITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: Waterfront Wines.FAVOURITE COCKTAIL/WINE: Casamigos Anejo Tequila on ice. ALBUM ON CURRENT ROTATION: Delta by Mumford and Sons. FAVOURITE FLOWER: Light pink Peonies.

FAVOURITE HOTEL: The Peninsula Hotel in Chicago. FAVOURITE APP: Nike Run Club.

FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WHOLE WORLD: Anywhere with my

dog and my man.

A HIGHER STANDARD IN HOME DESIGN + CONSTRUCTION apchin.com boulevardmagazines.com |

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inspired EATS

Infused with love {and wine}

BY ANGELA COWAN | P H OTO S BY DA R R E N H U L L

Wine-infused beet salad and lake views at Play Winery’s Play Bistro.

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Charcuterie board at Play Bistro includes a white wine mustard and marmalade onions — also infused with wine.

P

LAY Estate Winery in Penticton fuses expertly crafted wines with amazing food and spectacular lake views for a unique dining experience. We asked Play Bistro’s Executive Chef Bill Myra a few questions about cooking with wine.

YOU HAVE A NEW MENU AT PLAY WINERY. WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY BEHIND IT? “I just wanted to give our clients good food at a reasonable price. All the old classics with just a little twist on them.”

YOU’VE INCORPORATED PLAY WINERY VINTAGES INTO SEVERAL OF YOUR MENU ITEMS. CAN YOU DESCRIBE A FEW OF THEM? “Well, the beet salad for one. I started with a balsamic gastrique and then infused a red wine reduction. It adds a sweet and sour flavour.

Most of my salad dressings incorporate wine with gastriques — that’s kind of a classic spin on things. And for the scallops, I use a red wine reduction — our Play red wine, the Dramatic — incorporated with a brown butter, and it plays on the meatiness of the scallop and brightens all the natural flavours. Also, in the Quinoa Prawn Salad, I use a white balsamic gastrique and a white wine reduction, and then six whole kiwis and olive oil. Nobody does a kiwi dressing, and it’s an underutilized fruit. It offers a nice tanginess and pairs well with the prawns.”

ARE THERE CERTAIN TYPES OF WINE THAT ARE BEST FOR USE IN COOKING? ARE THERE SOME THAT AREN’T? “The wine that I like to drink is the one I like to cook with. You don’t want something that’s bitter or too sour to cook with, because it’ll change the flavour of your food. Once it reduces down, all you’re doing is enhancing all that flavour. I would use what you like to drink.”

WHERE WOULD YOU USE WHITE WINE AND WHERE WOULD YOU USE RED? “Usually you pair your whites with chicken or fish and the reds with red meat or bolder flavours, but you can think outside the box. Look at my scallop dish. You don’t always have to be safe. If you’re looking for acidity, you’re going to pair it with fish. Your full-bodied wines go well with more fall foods, comfort foods, like stroganoff or braised short ribs.”

ARE THERE ANY RULES WHEN IT COMES TO COOKING WITH WINE? “Just have fun! And don’t reduce it too much. You want to bring it to a syrup. Don’t burn your wine, because then it will be quite bitter. Or you can use wine in a pan and start to deglaze it. You want to cook the alcohol out; you just want the flavour of the grape.”

BEET SALAD Serves approximately six people 6 beets 250 ml olive oil, plus enough to coat the beets salt, pepper

1 litre wine 1 litre balsamic vinegar 2 Tbsp honey selection of salad greens goat cheese caramelized onions fresh tomatoes and radishes

Wash the beets, then rub with olive oil, salt and pepper. Braise until they’re fork tender. Cool, peel and thinly slice. Place balsamic vinegar in a pan on medium-high heat and reduce at a slow boil, adding honey as it nears a syrup consistency (this makes it a “gastrique”). In a separate pan, reduce the wine until it also reaches a syrup consistency, stirring occasionally and being careful not to burn it. Mix half the gastrique and half the wine reduction together, and marinate the beet slices in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. Reserve the other halves of the mixtures.

When ready to assemble the salad, arrange the beet slices on a plate. Top with a selection of your favourite salad greens, crumbled goat cheese, caramelized onions, fresh tomatoes and radishes. Take the remaining halves of the gastrique and wine reductions, mix together, and whisk with the cup of olive oil. Drizzle over the salad, and add salt and pepper to taste. boulevardmagazines.com |

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inspired HEALTH

Saving Face

BY PAMELA DURKIN

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“Pharmaceutical-grade Vitamin C serum … can help prevent and reverse some signs of sun damage and also works to protect our skin from … environmental damage.”

T

HE glorious summer sun — who doesn’t love it? Well, to be truthful, I’m rather ambivalent about the sun’s powerful rays. I embrace the radiant warmth they give off, but I’m wary of their ability to age my skin.

Since turning 40, I’ve been diligent about sun protection — slathering myself with sunscreen and even buying a sun parasol. My efforts to ward off those age-revealing lines and wrinkles do not erase the simple truth, however. Some signs of aging are inevitable with advancing years, even for those disciplined about sun protection.

This is because as we age collagen and elastin fibres break down and skin loses its elasticity and firmness. But before you rush out to buy an expensive cream that promises to boost your collagen production and tighten your skin, let’s look at what really causes wrinkles and what actually works to prevent and reverse those bothersome smooth-skin foes.

While the sun might not be to blame for ALL the signs of visible aging, it certainly is the “chief culprit” in making us look older. According to cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Mark Lupin, up to 90 per cent of visible aging is caused by the sun.

“The sun’s rays accelerate the removal of collagen from our skin by increasing enzymes in the skin that degrade collagen production,” he explains.

Unfortunately, as we age, our collagen production naturally slows, and excess sun exposure speeds up this process. And the evidence of its harm isn’t always immediately apparent — sun damage happens gradually and can cause wrinkles and lines decades after the peak of sun exposure. That’s why it’s important to start applying sun protection at an early age and to do it year round —something few of us do.

“Most people don’t make the most of their sunscreen,” says Lupin. “For the face, you have to use a nickel-sized amount of broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30, and reapply it every two to four hours throughout the day, all year

long —even in winter,” he emphasizes.

As for the chemical versus natural sunscreen debate, Lupin cites both as being effective if they’re used properly, but notes that natural sunscreens, like micronized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, screen a broader range of ultraviolet light than their chemical counterparts. And when it comes to natural products, it might surprise you to learn that topical Vitamin C is another weapon that can be added to our sun-protection arsenal.

“Pharmaceutical-grade Vitamin C serum is something I highly recommend,” says Lupin. “It can help prevent and reverse some signs of sun damage and also works to protect our skin from another aging factor — environmental damage.”

Environmental pollution can influence skin aging too, as can genetics, smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet and even stress. However, even if we inherit good genes and avoid the rest of these youthrobbers, Father Time would still, eventually, inflict us with the tell-tale signs of aging.

“The simple things we all do everyday — like frowning, squinting, smiling — over time cause dynamic wrinkles,” Lupin explains.

Dynamic wrinkles are caused by contracting the muscles in your face and they disappear when the muscles are relaxed. This is why Botox, the ultimate facial relaxer, is so effective at erasing typical dynamic wrinkles like frown lines and crows feet. In addition, with advancing age, common facial movements form even deeper ridges known as static wrinkles. These typically show up on the cheek area, around the mouth and on the neck. Unfortunately, with age, skin also tends to “thin out” and lose fat making it appear less “full.”

These changes can cause sagging and wrinkle “folds” that often appear between the nose and mouth, and under the eyes.

If all this sounds rather bleak — fear not. While there is a lot of hype and false claims associated with anti-aging skin care products and treatments, there are options — from minimal to more involved treatments — that can help us achieve a more youthful look. boulevardmagazines.com |

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Let’s take a look at the basics and sort myth from fact.

Moisturizers Facial moisturizers won’t reverse existing wrinkles or prevent new ones from forming. At best they will hydrate your skin, which helps “plump” the face, thereby reducing the “appearance” of fine lines. Dermatologists agree that most of the claims for expensive moisturizers do not hold up to rigorous science and they are no better at providing hydration than less expensive drug store brands.

However, when shopping for a good moisturizer there are some key ingredients that help to boost its “plumping ability.”

“Creams that contain hyaluronic acid — a sugar molecule that supports the skin due its ability to bind water — can improve hydration,” cites Dr. Lupin.

In addition, ceramides, which are waxy lipids in the top layer of the skin that act as a protective barrier and help the skin retain water, are another great moisturizer add-in. As we age, our bodies produce less ceramides, compromising the skin barrier and leaving our faces vulnerable to harmful environmental components and inflammation.

One family of ingredients you can eschew when choosing a cream is peptides. Although they’ve garnered a lot of press as anti-aging superstars, peptides — which are the naturally occurring building blocks of protein in skin — have not lived up to the claims and there is no significant supporting scientific data to suggest they truly work.

Retinoids Retinoids (the umbrella term for retinol products) remain the gold-standard for topical anti-aging treatments for good reason — they work. Numerous studies have shown they can help stimulate collagen, improve pigmentation, thicken thinning skin and improve the skin’s texture.

And according to Lupin, their reputation for being “harsh” is undeserved. Even those with sensitive skin can use the new low percentage retinols — and yes, they’re just as effective as higher percentage formulations.

“All you need is a 0.3 per cent retinol to see good results, more is not better,” says Lupin.

Elective cosmetic treatments Hollywood A-listers rely on treatments like Botox, dermal fillers and lasers to keep their faces line-free and camera ready because these procedures do work — although their effectiveness comes with a significant investment. In addition, there are risks associated with these various treatments ranging from minor bruising and irritation to infections. What’s more, a less than pleasing look can result if done by the wrong hands. To guarantee good results, it’s critical to seek out the care of a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist.

It’s also critical to point out that a positive attitude is also crucial for putting your best face forward —,after all, nothing creates a youthful glow like being happy and self-confident!

Outstanding Craftsmanship 778-753-1953 | Kelowna, BC | www.candelcustomhomes.com

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N OW S E LLI N G

YO U R P L ACE

The Landing at Wood Lake. Luxurious, modern beach living in a tranquil setting. It’s the perfect place to connect and share with family and friends. The Landing – Your place to call home.

Register online at

This is not an offering for sale. E&OE. Such an offering can only be made with a Disclosure Statement.

inspired INTERIORS

Form + Function Highpointe home hits all the right buttons

BY JUSTIN O’CONNOR | P H OTO S BY BY R O N K A N E , L E G E N D P H OTO G R A P H Y

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I

AM truly fortunate to be invited into the most beautiful homes in the Okanagan — homes that rival any in the world. And this sprawling house in Kelowna’s Highpointe Estates community was no exception.

All the homes in this coveted gated neighbourhood are custom and unique, and as I approached the house, I passed by a well-established garden, highlighted by strategically placed landscape lighting.

Greeted by the home’s formal entryway, it wasn’t until I entered the kitchen adjacent to the great room that my jaw dropped. With the sunset teasing us with its grand arrival, the view of the valley looked like a canvas painted on the wall.

Looking though the oversized windows that stretched from one end of the area to the other, and revealed this landscape artistry, I knew I would be featuring this house in Boulevard.

With the house perched high upon the hillside, the breathtaking mountain, valley, city and lake views are the focal point of all the principle rooms.

The homeowners invested nearly $200,000 in recent upgrades, and there’s a timeless sophistication and understated elegance in this sprawling home. And as I considered the layout, it became obvious that the architect and designer thought about how this home would be lived in.

Continuity has been created by the use of a neutral colour palette, with varying shades and tones that result in a visual cohesion. The use of a monochromatic colour palette also prevents any single “piece” from capturing your attention entirely.

Offered a glass of one of the homeowners’ many select bottles of fine wines — displayed proudly in the wine room off the grand kitchen — who am I to refuse this accompaniment to the tour?

We gathered in the chef’s kitchen, where a rounded, familysized Betularie granite island takes centrestage. Here, the homeowners revealed one of their favourite additions to the kitchen — a butler’s pantry with extensive, custom-built storage.

The homeowners envisioned indoor and outdoor entertaining areas with plenty of room for guests to mingle combined with peaceful retreats for when it’s time to rest.

Indeed, guests can move seamlessly within the open-concept floor plan, which extends from the dining and great rooms to the adjoining outdoor patios.

“It was paramount that there was ample room for our family to grow and develop,” the homeowners explained. “This home has four bedrooms, each with an en suite, which accommodates our family needs, while our guests are afforded the opportunity to enjoy independence and privacy.”

Three generously proportioned secondary bedrooms are each complemented by their own en suite. The master suite boasts a fireplace and spa-like bath retreat. The master closet is a dream space with antiqued white cabinetry and frosted glass doors. The great lighting and laundry area make this room not only beautiful, but functional. This abundant space could accommodate the most discerning “apparel and footwear enthusiasts.”

The tour moved through an extended wing, featuring an inspiring flex space suitable as an office or conservatory. boulevardmagazines.com |

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Currently used as a home office, it features extensive work and storage areas, a private entrance and collaboration space. This generous area is essential as the homeowners operate businesses from their home and regularly conduct meetings here.

Tonight, it became a gathering spot in which to sip our wine and reflect upon the features that have elevated this house to a home. We agreed that each room has its own personality and yet the house remains cohesive as a whole. The successful harmonization of contemporary finishes, on-trend colours together with classic sophistication provided the opportunity to explore both modish and traditional creative options.

Our tour concluded in the lower level, where there’s a self-contained, one-bedroom suite — perfect for teenagers and in-laws alike — a workout space, media room and family room. It has several walk-outs and private patios, including an outdoor chef’s kitchen, hot tub area and an impressive inground saltwater pool.

Meticulous and tour-worthy, the two garages showcase epoxy floors and storage for three cars.

I always reflect upon a home after leaving: I consider the impression it made both visually and emotionally. This home combined exquisite design and functionality, and it left me feeling tranquil.

With the sun now set, the twinkling of the city lights called for me to return home, but the serenity of the view was one to never forget.

design. manage. build.

SIN~CERAS - TOMMIE & GEORGIE GOLD WINNER

Specializing in High Performance Homes

OLYMPUS - 3 TIME TOMMIE SILVER WINNER

ALLELEMENTS.CA Gold Tommie Winner of Home of the Year 2 time Provincial Georgie Award Winner 12 time Tommie Silver Award Winner

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3 time Provincial Georgie Award Winner Build Magazine Home Builder Awards Best HOME OF THE YEAR Design/Build Firm BC

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LOCATION: Highpointe Estates, Kelowna INTERIOR DESIGNER: Lisa Lapointe AWE-INSPIRING FEATURES: The unanticipated and spectacular view of the city and Okanagan Lake from each principle room; the collaboration area within the home office: bright, comfortable and promotes creative productivity.

The master closet is a dream space with antiqued white cabinetry and frosted glass doors. The great lighting and laundry area make this room both beautiful and functional.

HOMEOWNERS’ INTENT: To live within a beautiful space that will accommodate the various aspects of life, such as family, work and entertaining.

DESIGNER’S CONCEPT: To create spaces that are not only purposeful, but that summon the desire to linger with no single element overwhelming an individual, other than the remarkable views of the Valley.

STYLE OF DESIGN: Transitional.

COLOUR SCHEME: Neutral monochromatic palette.

Only 19 Luxury Hillside Lakeview Homes Remain Act now for best selection on the remaining homes The word is out that The Cottages on Osoyoos Lake is the best new home community in the Okanagan Valley.

The Cottages includes a community centre with a gym, two pools and hot tubs as well as our private sandy beach and boat slips, there’s something for everyone. With over 220 homes sold, the remaining opportunities won’t last long.

With eight different home plans to choose from ranging is size from our modest 1,300 sf meadow homes to the exclusive 3,000 sf Meritage plan, there really is the perfect home for you.

We have several unique homes under construction and all homes can be customized to suit your needs. Please contact our sales team at 1.855.742.5555 or visit our website for a full tour.

Th Cottag e exem es is BC’s Vpt from ac Home ation Tax

Visit our Display Homes » 2450 Radio Tower Road, Oliver, BC See website for open hours.

1.855.742.5555 osoyooscottages.com

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inspired PEOPLE

“There is magic in song-writing, like anything artistic.”

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Something old, something new ... Sandy Zeleznik will compose a wedding song just for you

BY DAVID WYLIE | P H OTO S BY DA R R E N H U L L

I

MAGINE walking down the aisle to your

very own personal song.

Kelowna born and raised songwriter Sandy Zeleznik wants to create a unique memory capturing a major milestone: your wedding.

“Marriage is an amazing thing. It’s a happy time, a lifechanging event,” she says. “Your own song is a keepsake for life, just like pictures, just like video. I put my heart and soul into it.”

Sandy has written hundreds of songs, and has been honing her craft for years.

The first wedding song she wrote was for her niece.

Personalized songs became a thoughtful wedding gift she gave to those near and dear.

Sandy knew she had found a unique niche in the competitive music industry — adapting couples’ vows and how they met into professional demos that rival radio songs.

“After I wrote my first wedding song, it brought joy to me and a sense of passion; it was such a wonderful feeling,” she says. “Some things just seem to come into trend. A good friend sang me down the aisle when I got married. I never thought to have a personal wedding song back then.”

Sandy says she writes music as therapy and, along with weddings, has also written songs for funerals. One was even picked up by MADD Canada for a candlelight vigil.

“It’s funerals or weddings. I choose weddings,” she says.

“I like to make people cry, I guess: tears of joy or sad tears.

I’m an emotional writer.”

She’s also versatile and enjoys crafting funny songs as well.

“Not all wedding songs have to be slow and emotional; there can be some great humorous songs for the reception,” she says.

Chasing her childhood dream of writing songs has been a long time coming.

Sandy married and had kids, raising them and helping her husband, James, run Jazel Homes in the Okanagan. But music never went away. With her kids grown, she now has more time.

“It was always in the back of my mind,” Sandy says.

“You hear about people who are artists and they get a little bit more time when they’re older and they can pursue it.

The dream can come true. I can take my song-writing to

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the next level and I can put everything I have into it. When you love something, it’s not work.”

Sandy specializes in pop and country songs. She now writes every day in some way, whether it’s at the piano, with a pen and paper or in her head when inspiration strikes while she’s living life.

Recently, Sandy recalls, the house she grew up in was torn down to build townhouses, and she was there to watch the demolition.

“When that house came down, you would not believe the memories that came back. It’s like when someone dies,” she says. “Not a lot of people see their house that they’ve grown up in torn down.”

She adds: “One such memory was when I started singing at five years old. I sold tickets to all the neighbours for five cents. They all came to see me. I had a little tape recorder and I was standing on these round grey concrete stairs. I had a skipping rope for my microphone and I sang to the Partridge Family,” she says.

“Shortly after witnessing the house being demolished I wrote a song to that memory.”

The hard work has been paying off. Sandy has been making gains in the music industry. She’s had songs picked up by indie artists, met with publishers, and has co-written with writers from Nashville, Vancouver and Kelowna.

“You have to have a lot of patience,” she says. “There is magic in song-writing, like anything artistic. Some people get to pursue their dream when they’re young. I had to wait until I was a little older. There is a time for everything — whether

you’re young or old. You can pursue your dream at any age.

It’s a tough gig, but I’m in it for the long run. I want to make someone a wonderful song.”

Her personalized wedding songs have been well received, with people saying they rival some of the songs currently on the radio.

“I was very humbled by that,” she says. “It just brings so much joy to people.”

She says the songs are perfect to accompany the bride down the aisle, a first dance and as a wedding video soundtrack. To use a song on a video that’s posted to the internet costs a copyright fee that can be exorbitant — depending on the song.

Some of the songs are recorded by professional studios in Nashville, where she hires world-class musicians and singers.

She says she likes to be in the studio when her songs are being recorded so she can make sure her personal flair is reflected in the final recording.

Others songs she records herself. She plays on her grandma’s old piano, on which she learned to play. She also has a newer piano and two keyboards.

One of her highlights was writing a song for her son’s wedding: “It was an honour to do their song; I had a few tears writing that one,” she says.

Sandy and James just celebrated 30 years of marriage.

“I haven’t done one for us yet because I’ve been too busy,” she laughs.

She is now working on an album of personal stories.

More information at sandyzeemusic.com

Lakestone Preferred Builder www.homesbydestination.com

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INNOVATIVE. STYLISH. FUNCTIONAL.

For nearly 50 years, Jenn-Air has focused on bringing kitchen design and functionality together to produce stylish itself to every last handle and hinge. Check out Jenn-Air’s latest appliances and see what their details can do for you.

Visit the newly renovated Kelowna Showroom to see the latest Jenn-Air appliances and promotions.

AVAILABLE AT TRAIL APPLIANCES 2637 Enterprise Way, Kelowna, BC V1X 7Y6 Call: 250.862.3838 TRAILAPPLIANCES.COM

HOTPROPERTIES

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A Home for the Ages Sophisticated and welcoming, this beautiful house was designed to be lived in for generations

BY VALAURA JONES | P H OTO S BY C O L I N J E W E L

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“It’s sophisticated but still welcoming and you see those touches of the beach in details such as the wave-like tiles cladding the fireplace. Then there are the modern touches like the recessed baseboards, and we didn’t put trim or casing on the doors in order to keep it clean.”

Quick Facts: Design time: 8 months initial + 4 months for redesign Build time: 11.5 months Square feet: 4,377 4 bedrooms 4 full bathrooms 2 half baths Den on main floor Notable features: Pneumatic vacuum elevator; 2-car garage; 3 decks, including an upper level hot tub with direct access to guest shower; accordion windows; steam shower; temperature-controlled wine wall

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ON’T let the clean lines fool you; simplicity is difficult. For Craig Mohr, owner and designer at Vineyard Developments, it is an art form.

As we stand outside the contemporary home that is nestled between a cliff-face to the front and a glittering Okanagan Lake to the rear, Craig describes some of the challenges that went into construction. The home is located near Vernon along a series of winding roads that take you high up the hillside and back down again. Not exactly ideal for bringing in materials, but a piece of cake compared to the limited staging area on the smaller lot.

Extra care was also needed for the foundation work as Craig wanted to set the home below typical “ground level” in order to get his clients closer to the water.

His clients, Bern and Donna, are drawn to the water and wanted a vacation home that would welcome the entire family to refresh and recharge together. They requested a home that was modern, simple and totally different from their more traditional farmhouse on the Prairies. The homeowners already had a home

THE TOFINO $3898 Sink into extreme comfort with the Tofino Sectional from Muse and Merchant. The Tofino Sectional includes two corners cubes, two armless cubes and one ottoman, allowing you to configure the sectional that best suits your space. The Tofino is upholstered in Livesmart fabric which has excellent liquid repellent and stain resistance characteristics.

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250.864.7446 | castellocustom.com

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plan but in getting to know them, Craig had some ideas of his own. With their blessing, he went back to the drawing board to create something special for their children and grandkids.

The result is a home that is chameleon-like. It is indeed modern and simple, but it is also incredibly practical and designed to be lived in by, and for, generations.

Walking through the expansive front doors, I’m greeted by a futuristic, tubular elevator that is wrapped by a mono stringer staircase with glass railings. The floors are a beautiful, blonde brushed oak, and the Cascadia fibreglass windows let in streams of light, despite being nestled down a half-storey and facing a rocky hillside. The pendant light fixtures overhead are suspended at varying heights to look like stars once the sun has set. But most of all, I am transfixed by the view of the lake and lush hillside from the wall of windows opposite.

“I’m from Alberta myself, so I’m always aware of how dim winters can be here in the Okanagan. I design all of my homes to have lots of natural light,” says Craig.

The informal great room offers clear sight lines between the living room, dining area and kitchen, yet the spaces still feel distinct, thanks to a combination of layout and furnishings.

Craig teamed up with Nicole Begrand-Fast of Begrand Fast Design to select many of the interior finishings, from the flooring through to the artwork. Her team also worked with Craig to develop a kitchen layout that maximizes views and family time.

Bern and Donna both enjoy cooking and it’s clear to see that the kitchen was a top priority for the hospitable couple. Subtly cantilevered over the floor below, the kitchen feels as though it is suspended above the yard and lake. The gleaming white quartz waterfall counters are balanced with walnut match grain

STUDIO S COLLECTION MATTE BLACK

kitchen & bath fixtures

inspiration lives here WEST KELOWNA

B G S H O W R O O MS.CO M

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cabinets that create the perfect frame for topof-the-line Gaggenau appliances.

To say that the layout is inspired would be an understatement. The kitchen boasts two islands, each with seating that faces inward so that the cook can always be in the heart of the conversation and one’s back is never to the view. There is counter space galore for celebrating milestone birthdays, prepping for holiday dinners or making cookies on a Sunday afternoon.

At the far corner is an office nook for Donna. A place to store her cookbooks, catch up on emails, or sit and chat with her family as she looks out over the water. The practicality continues in the dining room with a spacious built-in buffet and a table that expands to comfortably seat 12 people.

“I would describe this home as ‘formal beachy,’” Craig smiles.

“It’s sophisticated but still welcoming and you see those touches of the beach in details such as the wave-like tiles cladding the fireplace. Then there are the modern touches like the recessed baseboards, and we didn’t put trim or casing on the doors in order to keep it clean.”

Upstairs, the master suite is perfectly spacious but not at all wasteful. The master bathroom offers a luxurious, free-standing tub as well as a steam shower. The free-standing double vanity

“You know, I don’t know if I have a favourite thing. It’s just a great house. I love this house.”

has a massive mirror that bounces light around the room. The master bath also opens onto a walk-in closet that features its own washer and dryer (a second set is available for guests on the lower level). Crucially, everything in the master suite is futureproofed for the homeowners, with accessibility top of mind throughout the home.

Two flights downstairs, I meet the gracious homeowners, who are enjoying some drinks with a friend. The windows are flung open and the radio on. The lower level of the home is clearly the place to be, complete with two pub tables backed by a refrigerated wine wall. The wet bar’s windows open onto the outdoor patio, perfect for passing drinks through to guests lounging around the outdoor firepit or to help load up the boat.

“It’s our happy place,” Bern smiles. “The water is such a relaxing thing and the way our kitchen is set up with the fulllength windows and the islands that are parallel, you’re just sitting right over top of the lake drinking your coffee.”

“We just love the light and the brightness,” Donna explains.

“We always have a beautiful view, especially on the main floor where you look out and you can see the expanse of Okanagan Lake… It works really well for our family.”

One can easily imagine this house full of life as the grandchildren run around in bare feet after a day spent boating with grandpa — it’s a place where sandy bare feet are as welcome as laughter.

Standing at the end of the dock as the sun begins to dip in the sky, I ask Craig what his favourite part of the house is.

“You know, I don’t know if I have a favourite thing. It’s just a great house. I love this house.”

RREETTR A C brian@bellaoutdoor.ca

brian@bellaoutdoor.ca

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250-300-6520

250-300-6520

R A CTTAABBL E R L E OROOFO FA N D A N DS HSAHD E S A D EYSSYT E M S STEMS bellaoutdoor.ca

bellaoutdoor.ca

One Rare Opportunity The Private Residences at Abbott Park - As Spacious as they are Luxurious.

Make your next move the Right Size not a downsize.

22 Unmistakably Bespoke Private Residences One Level - 3 Bedroom Executive Sized Homes | Lake Views with Park Vistas Quiet Concrete Construction | Focused on Outdoor Living Space Starting at 1.1M | Move in Fall 2020

Registar at abbottpark.ca

250.878.9411

This is not an offering for sale. An offering for sale can only be made by way of a disclosure statement. The Developer reserves the right to make modifications and changes to floor plans, project design, specifications and features. Floor Plans and final suite sizes may vary. Nov 2018. E.&O.E.

THE

INFLUENCERS Meet Okanagan’s finest — some of the business people who drive this region — as they discuss success, vision and personal satisfaction.

Boulevard presents: The Influencers

photos by Darren Hull words by Sean McIntyre makeup by Jenny McKinney A special thank you to the Kelowna Yacht Club for hosting our team.

The beautiful Kelowna Yacht Club marina and state-of-the-art clubhouse set the backdrop for Boulevard’s 2019 edition of The Influencers.

Situated in the heart of Kelowna’s bustling waterfront, the Kelowna Yacht Club’s marina, first established in 1945, is the largest fresh-water basin in Canada, with over 1,000 moorage slips. The new clubhouse, built in 2014, proudly features this signature award-winning centre spiral staircase designed by Meiklejohn Architects and built by Top 40 Woodworks. It is crafted out of more than 43 panels on the outer design and is made completely of maple.

The Kelowna Yacht Club has a long-standing tradition of boating excellence that is preserved and passed on to future generations. Devoted to encouraging a passion for boating with a Youth Sailing School program, they believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joys of being out on the water.

With a private Member Lounge overlooking the boats, and an amazing waterfront banquet space open to both members and the public, The Kelowna Yacht club is truly an Okanagan gem.

Ray Wynsouw left General Manager & President, CorWest Builders

“I will never forget the career-changing advice I received from a mentor of mine, George HumeSmith, when I was running my own construction company. He took me for lunch, and after some small talk, looked me in the eye and said, ‘I watch you all the time. You run around addressing everything simultaneously.

Instead, you need to delegate tasks to ensure a positive outcome for everyone. Stick to that plan and trust others to execute it.’

Having to let go of doing everything myself has been one of the toughest changes I’ve had to make professionally, and one I occasionally still struggle with today. But what George said to me was right. Constructing a home is a small part of the overarching equation and you need more than just yourself to make that happen. Learning to be a leader, mentoring staff and building relationships are what allow us to accomplish great things, not only for our clients, but also for our industry.” corwestbuilders.com

Rich Threlfall

right

Vice-President of Development, Troika Management Corp

“Growing up, I always had a desire to understand how things worked, and this often meant taking them apart for the satisfaction of putting them back together. I carried that same passion with me as I ventured into land development and real estate, which was first introduced to me by my father.

It was under his guidance that I learned the importance of always putting people first and working with integrity.

Today, I strive to understand what makes our cities tick and what residents desire from a home in order to design developments that will provide and encourage a healthy and vibrant community. In holding true to Troika’s core value of innovation, I take pride in challenging the status quo, discovering better methods and delivering stronger outputs and solutions for everything we do.” troikadevelopments.com

Brad Pelletier Senior Vice-President, Predator Ridge/Wesbild Okanagan

“I’ve always tried to be that guy who tackles the stuff in the ‘too tough to deal with pile’ and gets results by outsmarting, not outspending, the competition.

Success in any career is guided by an ability to make timely decisions, and those who create the most value have the most options available to them.

My greatest career achievement was protecting my legacy through my respectful resignation following 13 years at the helm of the Canadian division of the world’s largest sports and entertainment company.” predatorridge.com / wesbild.com

Christy Lovig Lawyer/Partner, Doak Shirreff Lawyers LLP

“‘Life isn’t about doing it all; it’s about neglecting almost everything to focus fully on those precious few things that mean the world to you.’

This quote validates my belief that the pursuit of balance is overrated and unrealistic. I’ll never be content with the concept of moderation. To me, happiness is achieving what I want to achieve with the finite amount of time I have in this body and in this life. That means dedicating myself fully to certain things, and finding comfort in being uncomfortable.

I’m all about setting those ‘crazy’ goals, swinging for the fences and shooting for the stars. I encourage everyone to go allin to achieve a goal, but just make sure they’re the right fences you’re swinging at — the fences and stars that fill you up, not the ‘box-checker’ Instagram-worthy fences. I don’t have time to shoot for those stars, and neither do you.”

doakshirreff.com / 250-763-4323 Axel - Timberwolf

Luigi Coccaro Proprietor, Coccaro Group: The Curious Cafe & Bar Norcino, La Bussola Restaurant, Gather Restaurant

“Needless to say, the restaurant industry is in my blood. My father opened La Bussola in 1974, and still to this day it is our family business.

Growing up in the restaurant industry has helped mold who I am today and how we operate our restaurants.

Watching first-hand how hard my parents worked to create a truly amazing restaurant inspired me to continue the family tradition and expand our brand.

The Curious Cafe & Bar Norcino and Gather Restaurant reflect my life’s path. The design in each space expresses my travels and experiences, which I believe truly enhance an already growing and bustling city.” gatherkelowna.com / labussolarestaurant.com thecurious.ca

Christina Ferreira Owner, Impact Events and Brand Management

“I love bringing ideas to life — looking around the room and seeing people having a great time because I created an event for them to enjoy, remember and share with their friends. I got here by taking the plunge to go out on my own after a few years running my company as a side business. Having confidence in myself and working with my network of contacts has allowed me to become involved with the Okanagan’s largest and most prestigious events.” impactevents.ca

Constanze Eisenhut Sales Associate, Landmark Clothiers

“The founder of Landmark Clothiers, Dale Gehring, asked me to join the business in 2005. I’d been working in Germany as an entrepreneur in retail myself before moving to Canada years earlier. It didn’t take me long to accept the offer.

It’s a fun place to work and I think that’s because I always give more than 100 per cent when it comes to customer service, and when it comes to offering people high-quality, unique men’s clothing.” landmarkclothiers.com 250-448-7080

Jenny Mckinney Makeup Artist

“The best piece of advice that has stayed in my heart comes from one of the podcasts I feed on daily.

‘Without doubt, shame or apology, centre the parts of you that you’ve been holding at the margins. Wholly and boldly be your truest, fiercest self.’

I am deeply touched whenever a client invites me into their space and trusts me with their face. To think I can have a hand in helping a sweet soul be introduced or re-introduced to her own magnificence and beauty — to help her embody her truest, fiercest self — makes my eyes burn with grateful tears. Talk about a two way gift. jennymckinney.com / 250-718-3180

Photo by Lia Crowe

Vikram Grewal Dentist/Owner, Okanagan Smiles

“Growing up, I always considered the medical field as the epitome of human knowledge.

It is a discipline where one has the ability to directly change someone’s health and lifespan with the application of this knowledge.

I have always wanted to be a doctor. I enjoy paying attention to the finer details. Dentistry incorporates both science and aesthetics within one field. Many people often associate a trip to the dentist with fear or discomfort. Most of these emotions are due to a past experience or fear of the unknown. I like to involve and educate my patients about their oral health and walk them through different scenarios to alleviate any anxiety. There is never any judgment or pressure.

After all, it is not just the teeth that I work on, it is a person.� okanagansmiles.com / 250-763-3338

Colin Basran Mayor, City of Kelowna

“After watching a speech by Ronald Reagan on TV as a kid, I told my parents I wanted to be the first Canadian President of the United States. Years later, I’m proud to have been elected Kelowna’s youngest Mayor in 2014 at the age of 37. Politicians often make decisions for the short term in order to get re-elected.

I feel true leadership means looking beyond my term in office and being able to make decisions that may not always be popular but create a better community for future generations.” kelowna.ca

Katherine Bramall Founder & General Manager, BC Wine, Cider & Spirits Festival

“I’m grateful every day. It’s a real privilege to be able to do what I love and what I am passionate about.

British Columbia’s wine, cider and spirits are as interesting and diverse as the people who make them. Working with and representing these talented individuals is an inspiration.

The industry represents another adage that is close to my heart, and that is: we must be equally thankful for what we have as we are fearless about what we want.”

bcwinefestival.com / 778-484-5055

Rod Butters Chef/Owner & Author, RauDZ Creative Concepts Ltd.

RauDZ Regional Table, micro bar + bites, Sunny’s a Modern Diner, Terrafina at Hester Creek by RauDZ, The Okanagan Table kitchen, events, catering*

“‘Always be the guest,’ is some advice I was given early in my career, and it’s still the foundation of my business philosophy.

It means many things but, essentially, always look at your business through the eyes of your guests. At RauDZ, as with my other restaurants, I always support and eat local. It’s all about connecting with the farmers, growers, ranchers, artisans and people who are as passionate about food as I am. Our guests appreciate this and, in turn, they begin to demand this in their own personal shopping routines.” *soon to open raudz.com / 250-868-8805

Michelle Henry Harmony Homes

“Design is my passion. Form and function is in my blood. For 20 years, I have been obsessed with the world of design and architecture. My father told me early in life,

‘If the world puts you on a road you don’t like, step off the road and build yourself a new path.’

Life challenges forced me to reevaluate my path and I set out to turn my passion into my career. I didn’t get to where I am by accident, I got here on purpose and with intention. In the design and build process, my clients are involved as much or little as they like. Together with Harmony Homes’ 40-plus years of experience, we create a space our clients will love to work, play and come home to.” harmonyhomes.net / 250-507-7888

Gord Hayes Managing Director / General Manager, Kelowna BMW / MINI Kelowna

“I’ve always believed in personal growth and motivation by lifting a team as both individuals and as a group. I recently came across a quote and video that I found quite impactful personally, by artist and motivator Adam Roa:

‘Treat Yourself Like Someone You Love.’

If you get a chance to watch this video, it has a strong and profound meaning; at least it did for me. Self-confidence is a powerful force. It’s helped me build and maintain a team of very qualified, high-performing people, all moving in the same direction with the singular focus of providing service excellence. One of the primary keys to getting what you want from life is by believing that you can achieve what you truly desire. ‘Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right either way.’ Stay positive and engaged in whatever you’re doing, and only accept the best version of yourself.” kelownabmw.ca / 250-860-1269

Trisha Isabey Owner, Isabey Interiors

“My greatest achievement is surviving and persevering through the good, the bad and the ugly that one goes through in life. Getting back up and looking forward to each new beginning is all about perspective.

It’s the trials in life that make us better; failures need not define us unless we stay within our failures.

The best part of learning to appreciate this sense of perspective is how grateful it has made me for everything I’ve been given, and gratitude is paramount to happiness. These lessons serve me well at my interior design company, where I continually try to foster a collaborative environment that leads to greater artistry and incredible design.” isabeyinteriors.com 250-317-2925

Kim Appelt Owner, Style by Kim XO

“I’ve been ‘styling’ people since I was a kid. I modelled in high school and university, learned a lot and discovered I have a natural skill for dressing people. It’s more of an instinct; I see things in shapes. I always try to demystify getting dressed. On my YouTube and on CityLine, I keep an approachable and down-to-earth energy.

The most important thing is making women feel more confident.

They should feel empowered to make themselves look great and have fun doing it.”

stylebykimxo.com

Andre De Jongh General Sales Manager, Innov8 Digital Solutions

“Having to start from scratch was a personally humbling experience.

I’m thankful for the opportunity in 2013 to move to Canada, where hard work, solid mentorship and faith helped me thrive. I’m a firm believer in honesty and giving my business clients recommendations that will exceed expectations and offer them exceptional service for years to come.” innov8ds.ca / 250-491-9545

Natasha Girard Executive Director, Central Okanagan Hospice Association

“Collaboration is integral to success.

The more people who can come together for a common goal, the greater the outcome. It’s the journey in working with others that teaches us, inspires us and shapes us in remaining connected to building a stronger community. Show up, be passionate and be your best self.” hospicecoha.org / 250-763-5511

Shannon, BBA & Tamara Stone Founder, Realtor, Associate Broker, Stone Sisters Group

“I grew up in a real estate family, so you could say it’s in my blood. After getting my business degree and working in a few different industries, I finally decided to follow my passion and join my sister. Lots of times people think that to be a realtor you must love homes, and I do, but I love the people more. It’s a people business and I feel fortunate to work with the best clients and also to have a dedicated group of individuals to work beside.

I think there’s no better feeling than helping people realize their real estate dreams and guide our team to do that exact same thing.

To see our team succeed is a huge thrill for me.”

Shannon Stone - left

stonesisters.com 250-868-1501

Justin O’Connor Senior Vice-President, Sales, Justin O’Connor Group, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

“Growing up on a ranch instilled in me a strong work ethic. My entrepreneurial spirit was honed when I owned, grew and eventually sold a media print company. From there, relationships were built, and I was entrusted as the president (currently past-president) of the Canadian Home Builder Association in the Central Okanagan.

I am continually looking for new opportunities to bring value to the business community.

Recently elected to the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce board, I am grateful to take an active role in the support of other entrepreneurs. As Senior VP of Sales with Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, my commitment to serve, lead and inspire is the foundation on which I aspire to build each relationship.” justinoconnor.com / 250-826-9961

Photo by Lia Crowe

Sam Shakura Owner / Designer, Rock House Style

“Our homes are so vital to our health, happiness and overall well-being.

My focus is to reinvent the concept of ‘interior design’ and establish a more meaningful standard of luxury.

I don’t simply design, build and decorate spaces that look and function fabulously, I create rooms that heal, nurture, uplift, empower and enhance the spirit, allowing my clients to live their most abundant, connected and inspired lives.” rockhousestyle.com / 250-859-7517

Photo by Lia Crowe

Doug Hicks Co-Founder and CEO, Nature’s Pond Care Inc. and Koenders Water Solutions Inc.

“I’ve always believed that businesses should focus their efforts on offering products or services that make the world a better place.

We do this by developing and bringing environmentally friendly products to market that help people live better lives while conserving water the natural way. On a recent trip to India, I visited a village near New Delhi where residents had been using our company’s products to improve their health and water quality. For the first time in my career, I witnessed the positive impact our solutions can have on the most desperate of situations.” koenderswatersolutions.com / naturespondcare.com

Thom Killingsworth Executive Director, Kelowna Yacht Club

“My greatest achievement in life is my family: my wife and children. In as much the same way a strong family is based on teamwork, communication and understanding, the same holds true for the business world.

I pride myself on an affinity for building strong and unified teams.

I learned early on that, in any business, 80 per cent of your assets are your people. This recognition helps us meet Kelowna’s changing demographic, allowing us the freedom to think differently and adapt to a changing industry by fostering multi-generational enjoyment of the club, the lake and all that Kelowna has to offer. kelownayachtclub.com / 250-762-3310

Loyal Wooldridge City Counsellor, City of Kelowna

“Listen to understand rather than to respond.

Responsible and educated decision-making is achieved from a 360-degree view with the best interest of community considered as a whole. By understanding more deeply, we can better respond. I am an encourager of positive, impactful change — life has enough critics. To me, service is part of the moral ethical fibre that is so important for responsible advancement in life.”

loyalkelowna.com

Effie Simpson Single mom, law student, and Vice-President of Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers

“If you are passionate about something — a job, a hobby, an education, a cause — pursue it.

Get involved in things that ignite your soul.

It’s never too late to try new things; be fearless and go after those things that you love and are curious about.

Everybody is busy, so it’s up to you to make things you truly care about a priority.” crimestoppers.net

Jaime Briggs and Leon Gaba Briggs On Homes Real Estate Group

“Real estate seems to be one of the most misunderstood businesses.

Many people mistakenly think real estate is just about looking at glamorous homes all day, but that really couldn’t be any further from the truth. We feel more like highly skilled acrobats.

On the exterior, you must be poised and professional with tons of experience, yet behind the scenes we are juggling hundreds of fiery balls in the air, each representing people’s lives, investments and dreams.

It’s hard work; you give up tons of family events, evenings and weekends. But it’s also a lot of fun, challenging and rewarding. Getting to work together and helping people is what inspires and motivates us as a husband and wife duo. After all, what’s better than doing what you love, with the person you love! briggsonhomes.com / 250-215-0015

Craig Mohr Vineyard Developments Ltd.

“I decided to do life a little differently than most. I didn’t get married or have a family of my own. Instead, I’ve focussed solely on creating a design and development company. After 17 years, I’ve come to understand a deeper meaning to life and the underlying purpose of why I continue to do what I do.

I see life as an evolutionary process, and my business assists my life journey.

The relationships formed and the challenges of manufacturing multi-million dollar homes create and mold an infinite amount of mental strength.

This helps me approach life from a place of grace, truth and love, ultimately offering me a clearer perspective on how I fit into the creative process of life, while reminding me that I am better than I used to be.” vineyarddevelopments.com 250-878-9411

Colin Ford Brand director, Loyal Hair Therapy

“My father always encouraged me to follow my dreams, listen to my inner knowing, work hard and stay humble.

This advice has served me well as I’ve gone from growing up on a farm in rural New Zealand to becoming International Director of Education for L’Oreal Professionnel, Paris, France. I left school at the age of 15 to become a hairdresser and grabbed every opportunity that came my way. The fact that I was able to accomplish this without a university education has inspired many hairdressers around the world, and proven that you can achieve anything with hard work and determination and by ignoring the naysayers.”

loyalhairtherapy.ca 250-762-4145

Martina Kral Owner, Tutt Street Gallery

“My career path has been an evolution of experiences and interests. I would never have been able to own a gallery without the support and mentorship of many people along the way.

The opportunity to combine my love of art with my desire to be an entrepreneur has been a dream come true.

I’m able to spend my days surrounded by fabulous, original art and, hopefully, share my enthusiasm with others who want to enrich their professional and personal environments.” tuttartgalleries.ca / 250-861-4992

Dave Henshall NMT, EMTA, RMTA Neuromyologist/Neuromuscular Specialist, All Deep Neuromuscular

“Having worked as a paramedic for many years, I routinely saw sick and injured people moving through our healthcare system. Wanting to offer them more, I opened the first of four All Deep Neuromuscular Clinics in 1993. I’ve been very successful in helping people get rid of pain and keeping them pain free ever since.

It’s always a point of pride when clients walk out the door without the chronic pain that brought them in.” alldeep.ca / 250-575-5010

Sam Samaddar Airport Director at Kelowna International Airport

One could say that his love of airplanes is lifelong. Sam, born in Bristol, England, spent his early youth in Kenya, East Africa. His interest in aviation developed early, he remembers at a very young age asking his grandfather to take him to the airport so he could watch planes take-off and land. Sam was involved with the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, where he achieved his private pilot’s license at the age of 17. Later as a adult he commenced his airport career at Vancouver International Airport where he quickly moving up the ranks. In 1992 he assumed the position of Superintendent Airport Operations at Kelowna International Airport and has since held numerous positions. In 2008, Sam was appointed the Airport General Manager for the Kelowna International Airport – one of the top ten airports in Canada. ylw.kelowna.ca

Photo by Lia Crowe

Maegan Merrifield Owner, Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Solstice Yoga

“I believe in connection and community. It’s important to support people as they get to better know themselves and create the capacity to live their best lives by being connected in body, mind and soul.

The more we love ourselves, the more we are able to extend and share love outward.

Through yoga and meditation, it’s possible to love who you are and who you are becoming.” solstice.yoga / 778-484-6565

Jane Fatels-Reuvers Owner, AXON EMS training (Electric Muscle Stimulation)

“I’ve always tried to make my life easier and simpler, not by searching for a magic pill, but more by seeking a smarter way to live.

This has been especially important when it comes to working out and staying in shape. Seven years ago, I became hooked on EMS training while visiting the Netherlands. My new EMS studio in West Kelowna is the first and only of its kind in the Okanagan, and I’m happy to finally be able to help others get in shape faster and easier than ever before.” axonems.com / 778-214-0460

Pat Currie Owner, Three Wishes Clothing Boutique

“I’ve always loved fashion and have discovered that this means being able to help people feel good about themselves.

How we present ourselves is a form of self-respect.

No matter whether it’s casual, career or special occasion, the experience is always enhanced when we’re wearing comfortable, well-coordinated outfits.

It does my heart good when a woman walks out of my store carrying a package she can hardly wait to wear.” threewishesclothing.com 250-490-4899 Penticton 236-420-0217 Kelowna

Rosalind Satar - left Owner/artistic director and master hairdresser, Gini’s Salon International

“My parents always stressed how important it is to never be a burden on others, to do what you love doing, to follow your dreams, and to work hard to achieve your goals.

I’ve accomplished this through an exceptional work ethic and continual education. I now take a mentoring approach to hairdressers entering the industry. Some of Gini’s employees have become successful salon owners throughout Canada and abroad. Some have even created their own salon business training templates. It gives me great pride to see how far their careers have excelled and to know I played a small part in their success.”

Ramona Satar - right Makeup Artist and Esthetician, Gini’s Salon International Ltd.

“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should”

makeup by Ramona Satar

is something I like to say before committing to virtually any decision in life, whether deciding to purchase a plane ticket or picking an electric blue eyeliner over standard black. Having a rare form of Systemic Lupus (SLE) and suffering through severe nerve damage and a stroke in 2002, I was left in a wheelchair with a considerably weakened right side of my body and not much hope of any significant recovery.

Reclaiming my independence was a humbling experience and took a lot of stubborn determination to get back to doing the things I am passionate about and makeup artistry is my passion. I’m proud to have overcome that part of my story and have no doubt that as with anyone else, it’s the support of friends and family that drives us towards the best version of ourselves.” ginis.salon / 778-478-1447

Ria Kitsch President, Kitsch Wines

“I come from a family of employees. After a year off school, my mom encouraged me to pursue business school so my options would be open. I figured I’d graduate and get a job.

Instead, I met and fell in love with an entrepreneur from a family of entrepreneurs who have expanded my risk tolerance, confidence and skillset immensely.

The idea to own a winery evolved from owning the land, being proud of and optimistic about BC’s wine industry and feeling like we had a compelling interpretation of what an Okanagan winery could be. I hesitate to say our approach with Kitsch is changing the wine industry, however, I would say that we have been able to garner attention by not only having delicious wines, but by creating a distinctly youthful yet undeniably sophisticated vibe.”

kitschwines.ca / 250-864-6404

Photo by Lia Crowe

Andrew De Pieri, MD, CCFP

Sandra Merlo

“My approach to cosmetics involves restoring one’s optimal feeling of health, inside and out — not changing someone internally or externally. There is a huge need within cosmetic medicine for a more natural enhancement, true to the client’s features.

MD, Business Director, The De Pieri Clinic

I enjoy combining the latest in skin health renewal technology with carefully placed cosmetic products to really bring out a person’s unique beauty. It’s so exciting, 10 years after I set out on this path, to see my initial vision being realized in the number of clients who appreciate and benefit from our approach to both health and aesthetics.”

Photo by Lia Crowe

“Everyone who walks into our clinic has an amazing story, and I feel privileged to be involved in their quest to present the best of themselves, whatever that means to them.

It’s important to me that every client gets the feeling of “home” from our clinic.

My underlying goal is to create a place of nurturing, where people feel a little extravagant and completely at ease. My measure of success is the gut feeling that I’ve managed to “get it right” and help nurture people. Once this is achieved, the financial bottom line becomes just a necessary detail.” thedepiericlinic.com / 250-448-7408

LIVE INSPIRED

Your best l i fe b eg i n s w i th a h o m e th a t i n sp i res yo u .

$574,900 56-170 Celano Crescent, Kelowna BC

Brand new, 3 bedroom plus den open concept living.

In the heart of vibrant North Glenmore, coveted Drysdale Row delivers the convenience of nearby stores, amenities, schools and parks. Low maintance living in this new, never lived in pet friendly townhome

LIVE INSPIRED

Yo u r b est l i fe b eg i n s w i t h a h o me t h a t i n s p i r

$899,000

$748,888

604-A 3626 Mission Springs Drive, Kelowna BC Lower Mission Penthouse With Top Floor Views!

Contemporary 2 Bed 2 Bath Plus Den. 2 Parking Stalls.

Modern Open Layout. Island Kitchen, Quartz Counters, Roof Terrace, Custom Pergola. Only 2 Blocks To The Beach.

434 Curlew Drive, Kelowna BC

Lovely 4 bedroom 3 bath family home nestled on one of Kelowna’s most highly desired neighborhoods.This home shines with upgrades including newer shaker style kitchen, upgraded windows, new flooring, new furnace & more!

LIVE INSPIRED LIVE INSPIRED

Your best l i fe b eg i n s w i t h a h o m e t h a t i n s p i res yoYou .ur best l i fe beg i ns w i t h a ho me t ha t i n s p i res yo u .

$949,900 6157 Seymoure Lane, Peachland BC

Custom Walkout Rancher, Sweeping Lake Views, Almost 4,000 SF, Bright, Open Plan, Corner Lot, 4 Bdrms 4 Baths Plus Den, Jaw-dropping Man Cave, Oversized 2 Car Garage Plus Huge, Heated Garage/ Shop With 10,000LB Hoist

$998,000 Never Before Available! The Ultimate In Kelowna Loft Living.

Two Storey Corner Unit With $2,000,000 Renovation. Just One Block off The Beach! 18 Ft Ceilings, Floor to Ceiling Glass, Private Rooftop Patio, Hot Tub.

JUSTIN O’CONNOR867 Mount Royal Drive, Kelowna BC

$1,049,000 GST Applicable

$1,265,000

Located adjacent to the firstPersonal hole ofReal theEstate RidgeCorporation Course, Affinity homes offer exceptional fairway living at Predator Ridge just steps from the resort center. Enjoy resortstyled living and unparalleled amenities in a thriving, year-round community.

Classy, 3 Bdrm/3 Bath/2 Dens Nesbitt Designed Home.

Unobstructed Lake/City Views. Gorgeous Park-like Yard With In-ground Pool. Gazebo Covered Terrace.

Prestigious Neighborhood Only Minutes To Downtown.

9 175 Predator Ridge, Vernon BC

d. 250.826.9961 tf. 1.877.530.3933

$1,049,000

#401 1289 Ellis Street, Kelowna BC

joconnor@sothebysrealty.ca justinoconnor.com

108-289 Ellis Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9X6

1370 Mine Hill Lane, Kelowna BC

Executive Two Storey With Legal 1 Bedroom Suite.

4100 SF., 6 bdrm, 5 Bath, Open Great Room Plan, Island Kitchen, Orchard/Valley Views. Triple Car Garage, RV Parking, Large, Professionally Landscaped Lot.

JUSTIN O’CONNOR THE TEAM 1,249,900 GST Applicable

3319 Water Birch Circle, Kelowna BC

New, Executive 3 bedroom 3 bath home with fully Personal Real Estate Corporation finished basement in McKinley Beach! Open great room plan, island kitchen, 12ft ceilings, spacious main floor master & stunning lake views.

d. 250.826.9961 tf. 1.877.530.3933

Canadian Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal. PREC is Personal Real Estate Corporation.

joconnor@sotheb justinoconnor.c

JUSTIN O’CONNO

108-289 Ellis Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9X6

$1,429,900 GST Applicable

$1,490,000

$1,499,900

1455 Benzer Crescent, Kelowna BC

25 Smoker Road, Beaverdell BC

19433 95th Street, Osoyoos BC

New, modern 5 bdrm 3 bath walk-out rancher nestled on quiet, cul-de-sac. Open floorplan, 12 FT ceilings, floor-to-ceiling linear fireplace, large butler’s pantry & island kitchen with wrap-around buffet. Spectacular mountain/city/lake views!

9.9 Acres With 1,000 FT of Kettle River Frontage. Custom Executive Rancher With Full Basement, Over 5,000 SF Fully Finished, High Ceilings, Massive Windows, 4 Bdrms 4 Baths, Island Kitchen, 600 AMP service, UV Air System & so much more!

Canadian Owned and O prospective Purchasers

Real Estate Associate

Designed with Distinction, 3,800sq.ft of lakefront luxury in one of Canada’s most desirable summer destinations.

Award-winning architecture. 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms.

Private dock. Sandy beach.

JUSTIN O’CONNOR

JUSTIN O’CONNOR THE TEAM

d. 250.826.9961 tf. 1.877.530.3933

d. 250.826.9961 tf. 1.877.530.3933

Personal Real Estate Corporation

joconnor@sothebysrealty.ca justinoconnor.com

108-1289 Ellis Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9X6

be ve r i fi e d on.

Personal Real Estate Corporation

108-1289 Ellis Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9X6

Canadian Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal. PREC is Personal Real Estate Corporation.

by

joconnor@sothebysrealty.ca justinoconnor.com

J

Canadian Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdra

res you .

SOTH EBYSR EA LT Y.CA

SOT HE BYSRE A LT Y.CA

$1,625,000 GST Applicable

$1,775,000

$2,100,000

1486 Rocky Point Drive, Kelowna BC

1802-1151 Sunset Drive, Kelowna BC

4941 Buckhaven Court, Kelowna BC

Elegant 4 bdrm, 5 bath home offering 4254 SF of luxurious living and enviable Okanagan Lake views.

Extensive use of hardwood, tile & quartz in this soaring, great room plan. 9ft center island, 5 piece master ensuite and oversized triple garage.

Welcome to coveted “1151 Sunset Drive” in the heart of the Kelowna’s vibrant downtown cultural district. This 2157 sq.ft sub-penthouse is nothing short of spectacular. 2 bedroom, 2.5 baths. Floor-to-ceiling & wall-to-wall windows, captivating 360’ lake and mountain views the city has to offer.

SOTHEBYS REALTY.CA

SOTH E BYS R E ALTY.CA

$2,499,000

$2,688,000

$2,590,000

9900 Matner Lane, Coldstream BC

Modern 5 Bdrm 7 Bath residence designed for family living.

Huge Cul-De-Sac Lot, Gorgeous Lake/Sunset Views, Huge Island Kitchen, Butler’s Pantry, In-Ground Pool, Heated Triple Garage, Backs onto Hiking, Biking, Walking Trails.

983 Westpoint Drive, Kelowna BC

Award-Winning Custom-Built Home on 8 Acre Equestrian Estate, heated-in-Ground Pool, Large 2 Stall Barn, Outdoor Riding Ring with GGT Footing, 2 Bay Farm Shop, Hay Storage, Shelters, Pipe Fencing.

Custom Lakeview Home, 4 Bedrooms, 6 Baths, 5,490 SF of Luxurious Living, Infinity Edge Pool, Outdoor BBQ Kitchen, Exquisite Finishings, Theatre Room, Billiards Room, Elevator, Professionally Landscaped with Water Features.

Seller will consider trades or carry some financing.

$2,790,000

$3,298,000

THE TEAM1557 Reservoir Road, Penticton BC

2802 West Bench Drive, Penticton BC

Prestigious estate in the South Okanagan. Private and secure property perched on Penticton’s West Bench. Panoramic mountain, lake and city views. Over 7500 sq.ft of elegant, comfortable living space, each room taking full advantage of the breathtaking views.

bysrealty.ca com

Rare, one of a kind estate property. Perched on 3.1 Acres.

8100 SF, 4 bed 6 bath, 2200 SF 6 car garage, Self-contained 1800 SF guest house, Stunning 180 Degree Mountain/Lake views. Custom built, concrete construction, only 5 minutes from town.

714 Rockcliffe Place, Kelowna BC

Modern masterpiece in the prestigious gated community of Highpointe. Perched high upon the hillside, breathtaking valley, city & lake views. Gourmet Island Kitchen. Media Room.

Wine Cellar. In-ground salt water pool. Outdoor Kitchen.

2 Garages

$3,499,000

2888 Seclusion Bay Road, West Kelowna BC

Private Lakefront Retreat. 18.5 Acre Lakefront Estate.

1,354 ft gravel beach on Okanagan Lake. Panoramic views!

Extensive dock, 3 boat lifts. Original 2,600 Sq.Ft home, 1/2 acre level building site.

OR

FRED BROWN

SUSAN PROPP

JEANNINE DIONNE

JUSTIN O’CONNOR

FRED BROWN

SUSAN PROPP

JEANNINE DIONNE

e

Real Estate Associate

Executive Administrator

Marketing Coordinator

Real Estate Associate

Real Estate Associate

Executive Administrator

Marketing Coordinator

Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by s and may be subject to change or withdrawal. PREC is Personal Real Estate Corporation.

$3,889,000

6353 Renfrew Road, Peachland BC

Stunning, Modern 5 Bdrm 6 Bath Residence, Impressive Open Plan, Unobstructed, Sweeping Lake Views, Gourmet 3 Island Kitchen, Professional Theatre Room, Palatial Master Suite, Heated In-Ground Pool, Covered Parking for 6!

$6,750,000

$5,500,000

1179 Westside Road S. West Kelowna BC Coveted piece of Kelowna’s waterfront. Just over 57 acres, sweeping 180 degree views over the lake and downtown Kelowna, 525 feet of lakefront, private bay.

1305 Westside Road also available @ $7,200,000

840 Curtis Road, Kelowna BC

Premier Equestrian Estate, 18.48 Acres, Majestic 8100 SF 7 bed 7 bath residence, 26 stall horse barn, heated indoor arena, heated in-ground pool, pool house, secondary living quarters, paddocks, shelters, Private, yet minutes to Kelowna shopping, airport & university.

THE TEAM

JUSTIN O’CONNOR

FRED BROWN

SUSAN PROPP

JEANNINE DIONNE JUSTIN O’CONNOR

FRED BROWN

SUSAN PROPP

JEANNINE DIONNE

Real Estate Associate

Real Estate Associate

Executive Administrator

Marketing Coordinator Real Estate Associate

Real Estate Associate

Executive Administrator

Marketing Coordinator

m sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by awal. PREC is Personal Real Estate Corporation.

FASHION FASHION

Untamed Spirit STYLING BY KIM APPELT | P H OTO S BY DA R R E N H U L L

Perched on the edge of the wild west coast of Vancouver Island, Boulevard visits the beautiful Wickaninnish Inn and Ancient Cedars Spa to showcase resort fashion that is as feminine as it is carefree. Get away this summer to the endless beaches of Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Take in the untamed beauty of the surf, sand, forest and rocks in luxurious style, and connect with nature in deluxe comfort at the Wickaninnish Inn.

Dress by Lost in Lunar ($155) from BIA BORO; earrings ($17) and hat ($55) by Echo from thehouseofleaves.ca.

Bathing suit by Entreaguas ($199) and cover-up by Aakaa ($118) from BIA BORO; ring ($140) from Footloose Shoes Victoria; earrings ($22) from thehouseofleaves.ca.

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Crochet “Bella” bikini top ($115) and “Giza” pom pom pants ($215) from Anna Kosturova; hat by Echo ($37) from thehouseofleaves.ca.

boulevardmagazines.com |

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 9

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Jumpsuit by AZ Collection ($198) from BIA BORO; yellow espadrilles

by Toni Pons ($120) from Footloose Shoes Victoria.

Bathing suit dress by Entreaguas ($249) from BIA BORO.

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TALKING WITHTOBY

Lady of the

Lake

Jane Hoffman

BY TOBY TANNAS | P H OTO S BY DA R R E N H U L L

J

ANE Hoffman is a giant in the world of Kelowna Real Estate. Her name is synonymous with luxury, lakeshore listings. While Hoffman represents the lion’s share of waterfront buyers and sellers in this city, for a good portion of her life, she considered herself more of a lamb.

“I was the youngest child, I never said a word; I hardly talked,” she recalls.

“Even as an adult, for the first years I was at this job, I just couldn’t quite see that it was really me.”

A career in real estate was not even on the radar for the raven-haired, small town girl with kind eyes and a quiet strength. A young bride at the age of

19, Jane and her RCMP officer husband left her home town of Revelstoke for the big city of Vancouver. On weekends they built houses together. Glen Hoffman’s construction dreams quickly overshadowed his RCMP career and the couple eventually moved to Kelowna to grow his company, Braniff Construction Ltd. Jane kept busy with a young son (Michael); she helped Glen with the company and attended classes at nursing school. But the course of her life changed forever on a winter night in 1982 when one of her greatest fears became reality.

“Glen always had a passion for flying.

I was always nervous about him flying.”

Glen and his business partner, Jim,

Through all of life’s ups and downs, she’s taken tremendous comfort in being near the lake. It’s a deep, personal connection to the water…

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who was Jane’s sister’s husband, were flying home in their private, company plane and crashed before they could land at Kelowna airport.

“I had a bad feeling and I was looking out my front door and down the hill came the RCMP. I knew. It had really happened, just the way I thought it was going to happen. It was like a nightmare,” she recounts with tears in her eyes.

As Jane and her sister grieved the tragic and sudden loss of their husbands, she came to a decision, one that to this day she believes was the most important of her life.

“I remember thinking when the RCMP left, I can go upstairs in my bed and throw the comforter over my head and fall apart — that’s what I wanted to do,” she admits. “Or I can keep going, ask for a few things from up above and be the person that survives.”

Jane chose to survive. She took the reigns of Glen’s company, managed 150 employees and wrapped up the remaining projects that Braniff was committed to. It took five years and an incredible amount of strength. Jane admits to feeling like she had a helping hand from above.

“I thought, oh Glen, I hope you help me somehow and I think he did. I think when people die you can take what you learned from them and you just kind of do it.”

As Braniff’s operations wound down, a casual comment from her cousin David got Jane thinking about the next chapter of her life. He reminded her how much she loved the lake and lakeshore homes and suggested she think about selling them. Jane was quietly intrigued.

“When I took the real estate course, I didn’t tell anybody.”

At the age of 34, Jane re-invented herself as an agent.

“It was really hard. The first year I sold five homes in the whole year. The next it was 15 and then it started compounding.”

She recalls tons of work, rejection and disappointment in the beginning, but then something clicked. She bought herself a little cottage on the lake and her love for it naturally formed the basis of her selling strategy.

“Selling houses on the lake brings so much joy to people. I had a passion for it myself, so I’d convince people they should do it too. That’s how I started.”

As she threw herself into work, raising her son and acquiring boulevardmagazines.com |

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more properties, Jane never let go of that first lake house and the healing comfort it provided her.

“In the summer I would move to the little beach house. I was very lonely at the time and I’d say to Michael, ‘I love the lake.

I feel like someone is always home when the water is there because it’s ever changing.’”

Jane lives in a beautiful waterfront home in Kelowna’s lower mission these days. Michael and his family live just a few blocks away, and Michael has followed in his father’s footsteps, undertaking various development projects in the city. Thanks to Michael, Braniff Construction Ltd. has been re-born, something that makes his mother very proud.

“My son took on all of Glen’s qualities, except the desire to fly — he didn’t pick that up at all.”

After 35 years in the real estate business, 16-hour days are still the norm for Jane.

“I may have gotten that from my mother,” she says with a smile, referring to Kay Beruschi — a Revelstoke pioneer, who opened the renowned Regent Hotel in Revelstoke with her husband Fred during the great depression. They ran it together until Jane’s dad died in 1976. Kay remained a constant presence at The Regent until the age of 92.

“Everyone knew Grandma Kay,” chuckles Jane. “She was a character, a true entrepreneur who was ahead of her time.”

Kay passed away at the age of 100 in 2014. Jane, her brother and sister still own The Regent and two other hotels in Revelstoke. Her nephew Brady operates them.

Jane’s primary focus is The Jane Hoffmann Real Estate Team.

With 14 people who have become her work family and more than 150 active listings, Jane doesn’t take much time off. When she can get away, you’ll find her on the slopes or travelling to a favourite destination like Hawaii. Jane’s other passions include raising money for various charities, including the Central Okanagan Hospice Association, and listening to live music. If you invite her to a concert, she will never say no.

“I’ll go to any concert, it doesn’t matter the music, I just love the energy.”

Jane Hoffman brims with energy. At an age when some might consider retirement, she still feels that rush of excitement when a buyer and a house match up.

“It’s like destiny. When I see it happen, I find it so fascinating,” she explains. “Sometimes when a house isn’t selling, I remind myself just to let go, someone is meant for that house and when it’s right, it will all come together.”

Selling real estate doesn’t come without stress and uncertainty but Jane takes it all in stride.

“It seems to be good for me. It keeps me healthy, vibrant and relevant. I’m so used to being busy and interacting, I’m not sure what would happen to me if I retired.”

Jane has found love over the years but has never re-married.

Through all of life’s ups and downs, she’s taken tremendous comfort in being near the lake. It’s a deep, personal connection to the water that provided solace for a young widow so many years ago. These days it’s a peaceful escape during chaotic times and even just a glance out the window is enough to fill her with an immense sense of gratitude.

The course of Jane Hoffman’s life may have been altered by tragedy, but somewhere on that journey the once timid lamb found her voice and roared her way to the top.

“I live stronger, better because I feel like I’m living for two people not just one. I got to stay, so let’s make it worthwhile.”

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The miracle of coconut milk

BY HEIDI FINK | P H OTO S BY D O N D E N TO N

Thank you to Nelson Collins and Melanie Wagner-Collins for hosting our photo shoot in your beautiful kitchen.

Pitcher, linens and white plates from Salt Pure Goods

C

OCONUT milk is a wonder in the kitchen. It is a dairy-free miracle of creamy liquid that enriches every recipes it touches. Coconut milk is not only a wonderful substitute for dairy products, but a delicious ingredient in its own right.

We most often encounter coconut milk in Thai food, cooked into rich curries and flavourful soups, but it can be used anywhere you might use cream in recipes. Think homemade ice cream, puddings and cakes; whipped toppings and custards; soups, dipping sauces and marinades; and, of course, cocktails and smoothies.

Its high fat content often scares people off, but coconut milk has a ton of health benefits. It is high in magnesium, potassium and selenium; its fat comes in the form of a medium-chain fatty acid called lauric acid, one of the healthiest and most digestible forms of fat for human consumption. So enjoy that creamy coconut whip to your heart’s content!

Good coconut milk has a mild sweet flavour and rich mouthfeel, which works well with all kinds of foods. I love it equally in seafood curry and sweetened on fresh berries.

It can also be used to revive dried coconut into a great approximation of fresh coconut. (Those of you who have tried making authentic South East Asian or Caribbean food know the pain of trying to find, open, peel and grate a fresh coconut.) I’ve included instructions below for this great “fresh” coconut hack!

Most importantly, good coconut milk should not be “milky” at all. It should be thick and creamy, solid enough to spoon out of the can; not runny like milk. See the sidebar below for tips on how to find the best and thickest milk in the can. Once opened, coconut milk will last four or five days in the fridge, and several months in the freezer. It does separate a bit after freezing, but can still be used in almost any recipe (except coconut whip) with good results.

There are so many ways to use coconut milk in the kitchen; I have barely scratched the surface with the recipes here. Use these as inspiration for your next can of coconut milk, and then try branching out into coconut cake, creamy soup or satay sauce. Or you can do what I do: find excuses to make coconut whip every week.

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Red Thai Curry.

HOW TO CHOOSE A CAN OF COCONUT MILK

QUICK WEEKNIGHT RED THAI CURRY

This might be the top favourite tip that I give in my cooking classes. The best way to choose a can of coconut milk is to shake the can. You should hear no noise, no liquid sloshing at all. Good quality coconut milk is solid at room temperature; it separates into a really thick rich cream and a thinner watery milk underneath. You should be spooning the milk out of the can, not pouring it.

A good quality can of coconut milk should be at least half solid cream, plugging the can effectively, so that even the thinner milk at the bottom can’t slosh around when you shake it.

Do not make a purchase decision based on price, on brand, on labels that say “coconut cream,” or even based on brands you had success with in the past. Every can of coconut milk will be different, even within the same brand. Just keep shaking cans until you find one that makes no noise.

Serves 4 to 6 with rice.

A cornerstone of my Basic Thai cooking class, this is a recipe that takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. The addition of fresh aromatics combined with the proper cooking technique are what makes this recipe stand apart from one you may have tried before.

Almost all of these ingredients can be purchased at most supermarkets in town. If there is anything you can’t find, feel free to omit it.

“FRESH” COCONUT HACK One of my favourite coconut hacks is to create an excellent substitute for fresh coconut using dried unsweetened coconut soaked in rich coconut milk. Fresh coconut has a rich sweetness that can be hard to replicate in recipes if you only have access to dried coconut; this hack does the job beautifully.

1½ cups dried unsweetened coconut 1 can coconut milk Place the dried coconut in a bowl. Bring the coconut milk to a rolling boil. Immediately pour the boiling coconut milk over the dried coconut in the bowl. Stir well to combine.

Set aside for about 30 minutes, until the dried coconut has absorbed most or all of the coconut milk. Use in any recipe that calls for grated fresh coconut (eg. Coconut, Chili and Cilantro Chutney below).

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1½ Tbsp vegetable oil 1 can Maesri red curry paste, OR 2 to 3 Tbsp Thai Kitchen red curry paste 1½ Tbsp minced lemongrass (1 stalk lemongrass) 1 Tbsp minced fresh or frozen galangal, OR 1 tsp fresh ginger 2 cloves garlic, sliced 1 400 mL can good quality coconut milk 3 Tbsp fish sauce 1 to 1½ lbs fresh prawns, peeled 1 red bell pepper, halved, seeded and sliced into pointy wedges 2 baby bok choi, sliced OR other green vegetable of your choice 1 Tbsp palm sugar, or yellow sugar 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 4 makrut lime leaves, sliced ¼ cup coarsely chopped fresh Thai basil Using a mortar and pestle, roughly mash the minced lemongrass, the minced galangal or ginger, and the sliced garlic with a pinch of salt. Alternatively, mince everything together as finely as possible on your cutting board.

Open the can of coconut milk. It should have separated into a thick, spoonable coconut “cream” at the top of the can and a thinner coconut water underneath. Scoop out all of the thick

cream into a liquid measuring cup, leaving the thinner water behind in the can. You should have 1 cup of thick coconut cream. If not, open a second can of coconut milk and scoop the thick milk off it until you have enough thick coconut milk to proceed. Reserve the thin watery coconut milk. Scoop about 2 Tbsp of the thick cream into a small bowl and set aside.

Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the curry paste and the mashed or minced lemongrass mixture.

Sauté, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds, and then add 2 tablespoons only of thick coconut cream. Cook, stirring, until the oil separates from the coconut milk and most of the liquid has evaporated. The curry paste should smell fragrant, but not burnt. This cooking technique is the most important part of this recipe.

Now add the rest of the thick coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the vegetables, fish sauce and sugar. If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved thin watery coconut milk. Simmer 5 minutes, until vegetables are just getting tender. Stir in the prawns and lime leaves. Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the prawns are just cooked through. Add the lime juice and basil and remove from heat.

Stir well to combine everything. Taste to adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve immediately on top of steamed jasmine rice.

COCONUT, CHILI AND CILANTRO CHUTNEY Makes 1.5 cups This absolutely delicious, nutty, spicy and slightly sweet chutney is always included with breakfast in Southern India. It pairs

perfectly with roasted potatoes and other root vegetables as a side dish or appetizer; it’s also excellent with crispy pappadum, chewy naan or mild lentils. It is usually made with fresh coconut, but I have used the Fresh Coconut Hack (above) in this variation.

1 cup dried unsweetened medium coconut + 1 cup canned coconut milk (OR 1¼ cup grated fresh coconut) 4 green onions OR 1 large shallot, peeled 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger 1 to 3 jalapeños, with seeds, if desired (*see note below) 1 cup packed cilantro leaves and soft stems ¼ tsp salt (or to taste) 1 tsp light brown sugar 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice (optional) 2 tsp vegetable oil 1 tsp whole black mustard seeds *For a medium-spice level, use 1 to 2 jalapeños with no seeds or membranes. To increase the spiciness, include the seeds and/ or increase the numbers of jalapeños. In Southern India and Sri Lanka, this chutney (also known as Coconut Sambar) is scorchingly spicy, packed with fresh green chilies.

If using dried coconut, place it in a small bowl. Bring the coconut milk to a boil in a small pot and pour it over the dried coconut. Let sit for 1 hour.

Place the green onions (or shallots), ginger, jalapeños, cilantro, salt and brown sugar in the work bowl of a food processor and pulse. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl

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We most often encounter coconut milk in Thai food, cooked into rich curries and flavourful soups, but it can be used anywhere you might use cream in recipes.

and process again, this time until the ingredients are very finely chopped, but not puréed. Scrape this mixture into the bowl with the soaked dried coconut and mix well.

(If using fresh coconut, omit the step involving the coconut milk — you will not be using the coconut milk at all. Place the green onions, ginger, jalapeños, cilantro, salt and brown sugar in the work bowl of a food processor and pulse several times until ingredients are chopped small. Add the fresh coconut and process until everything is ground up small, but not puréed. Stop to scrape down the sides as necessary. Remove to a bowl.)

To finish either chutney: Heat the oil and the mustard seeds in a small skillet over medium heat. As soon as the seeds begin to turn gray and pop, immediately pour them while still hot into your bowl of chutney. They will make a loud, hot-oil sound as you pour, but that is normal. Mix well with a spoon. Taste. You may decide that you want to use the optional lime juice (I usually only use it when I have fresh coconut) and you may want more salt.

This chutney should be served at room temperature.

SWEET BLACK RICE AND COCONUT PUDDING Serves 8 I have “westernized” this traditional Thai dessert to a North American-style creamy soft rice pudding texture, with excellent results. Black rice is chewy and flavourful and cooks to a purple hue — wonderful in this dessert. Dairy free, gluten free and to-die-for delicious!

1½ cups of Thai black rice (also known as black sweet rice and black glutinous rice) 4½ cups of water 2 cans (400 mL each) of coconut milk 1 ⁄3 cup light brown sugar 2 large disks of palm sugar (or 2⁄3 cup more light brown sugar) ¾ tsp salt Sliced mango, peach, strawberry, golden kiwi or banana

Sweet Black Rice and Coconut Pudding.

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Rinse rice well in several changes of cold water. Drain well. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine water and rice. Bring to a boil, cover tightly, and reduce heat to the lowest possible setting.

Let cook for 30 to 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, open one of the cans of coconut milk. It will have separated into a thicker coconut “cream” at the top of the can, and a thinner coconut “water” at the bottom. Scoop off as much of the cream as possible and place in a bowl. Mix ¼ tsp of the salt and the 1 ⁄3 cup light brown sugar into the bowl with the cream. Place the bowl in the fridge. This will be used later on for a delicious creamy topping.

Once the rice has cooked and absorbed most of the water, stir in the coconut “water” left over from the first can as well as the entire contents of the second can of coconut milk. Also add the remaining ½ tsp salt and the disks of palm sugar (or 2⁄3 cup light brown sugar, if using). Continue to cook the rice, covered, over low heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the whole thing looks creamy and pudding-y.

Pour into a large bowl and let cool to room temperature. Stir it every once in a while to prevent the top from drying out. Once cool, dish the pudding out into individual dessert bowls. Top each one with a dollop of reserved sweetened coconut cream and slices of fresh seasonal fruit.

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High road to the

ARCTIC Traversing the Dempster Highway STORY AND PHOTOS BY DARREN HULL

Photographer and filmmaker Darren Hull — whose work is featured regularly in Boulevard Okanagan — travelled solo to Canada’s North to explore and photograph the Dempster Highway and document the only open road to the Arctic Ocean.

The Dempster Highway has been around since 1979, but the Inuvik–Tuktoyaktuk Highway officially opened November 2017 and is the first all-weather road to Canada’s Arctic coast. It is an engineering marvel, making it an enticing “bucket list” item, explains Darren. A 740-kilometre roadway from Dawson City, Yukon to Inuvik, Northwest Territories, the trip offers incredible scenery, wide-open spaces and remote beauty with the option to carry on north to Tuktoyaktuk and the Arctic Ocean.

M

Y JOURNEY started in Kelowna, where I boarded a plane and flew to Whitehorse with the friendly folks at AirNorth. I was treated to a lovely in-flight meal of local cheeses, bison and crackers, followed by the best warm chocolate chip cookie of my life. It was an easy flight, just over two hours (a little more than three hours from Victoria).

After I landed in Whitehorse, the folks at DrivingForce provided me with a fully loaded SUV rental; it had enough room for myself and all my gear to be self-contained throughout my journey.

I was tempted to explore all that Whitehorse offered, but I had to keep my focus on the Dempster, and my journey ahead.

After catching some shut-eye, I rose early and supplied-up with the items I couldn’t fly with: fuel for my camp stove, water and food for the entire duration. I knew that Whitehorse was the biggest city stop for this trip and had the most amenities, so I took the opportunity to stock up and avoid purchasing groceries and supplies that would get increasingly expensive, the further north I travelled.

Fully stocked and ready to go, I drove the six hours from Whitehorse to Dawson and spent the night. I’d always wanted to explore Dawson and it was a great place to start my Dempster Adventure, with the highway just one hour away.

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The highway cuts through two mountain ranges, the Ogilvie and Richardson Mountains, through miles of forests and arctic tundra, before dropping to the Mackenzie River and its flats.

The highway sits on top of a gravel berm to insulate the permafrost in the soil underneath. The thickness of the gravel pad ranges from 1.2 metres up to 2.4 metres in some places (four feet to eight feet). Without the pad, the permafrost would melt and the road would sink into the ground.

The Dempster Highway has long been a quiet magnet for adventurous travellers. It seems to be even more of a draw now that drivers can continue on from Inuvik to the Arctic coastal community of Tuktoyaktuk.

Services are limited and the journey on the Dempster can be hard. The first stretch runs 370 kilometres without a gas station.

Gas, diesel fuel and repairs are available at Eagle Plains, Fort McPherson and at Inuvik. Appropriate preparation is essential.

Road conditions can also vary drastically.

Inuvik is the official end of the Dempster Highway, but you can’t just stop there with the Arctic Ocean only 140 kilomtres away on the Inuvik–Tuktoyaktuk Highway.

It took two and a half hours to reach Tuktoyaktuk (Tuk), where there was a small collection of campers parked around a spanking new Arctic Ocean sign.

I was on the road for eight days in total, and with a day each before and after, my adventure took a total of 10 days.

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Tsiigehtchic is a Gwich’in community located at the confluence of the Mackenzie and Arctic Red rivers, in the Inuvik Region of the Northwest Territories.

There are no hotels in Tuk yet, only a few small bed and breakfasts. I drove to Tuk and back in a single day and used Inuvik as my base for the Northern Arctic adventure. For those willing to dry camp, people are welcome to park near the beach in Tuk for free. My regret was not spending more time there; I will plan for more days on my next adventure there.

This was a trip that I will never forget. The scenery was comparable to none, but it was also

New hillside neighbourhoods just minutes from downtown Kelowna and airport, surrounded by stunning nature and views.

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long, dirty and lonely at times. It seemed to be a place you could disappear and never be seen again. The road was not only physically rough, but it was rough on the vehicle and my body and mind. The change in the road conditions — from hard compact gravel to mud bogs — kept me on alert. There were hours that would go by without seeing another vehicle on the road. Aside from the road itself, it was the most untouched landscape I’d ever seen.

The week was filled with every imaginable weather condition. The colours in early September were spectacular and the lack of bugs around that time was an added bonus. I had heard some reports of heavy insects during other times of the year, so I was happy I travelled in September.

It’s a trip I know I will need to take again, and the planning is already underway.

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TRAVELNEAR

Whales and other wonders

Glamping in the Broughton Archipelago

BY SUZANNE MORPHET

PHOTOS BY SPIRIT OF THE WEST ADVENTURES.

“D

AD, come quick,” shouts 21-year-old Jake Bailey as he looks out at the choppy water of Blackfish Sound. “Orca — he’s chasing a salmon!”

Seconds later the salmon leaps from the water, followed in hot pursuit by the breaching whale.

“That was very cool,” grins Jake’s father, David, after emerging from a forested campsite just in time to witness what appears to be the grand finale — with the whale winning the chase.

It’s our second day on Swanson Island in the Broughton Archipelago and seeing whales in their natural environment is a big part of why we’re here. The four members of the Bailey family have come all the way from the UK. There’s also a middle-aged couple from Ontario, a newly engaged pair from San Francisco and myself and another BC woman travelling on our own.

Blackfish Sound — named for the distinctive black and white colouration of killer whales — is renowned for its population of northern resident orcas, currently numbering about 300. Squeezed between the mountains of the mainland and northern Vancouver Island, the sound’s deep, cold water is rich in nutrients stirred up by strong tides.

Scientists have been researching whale acoustics for almost 50 years at OrcaLab on Hanson Island, just across the water from our camp. And at the southern end of the sound, Robson Bight Ecological Reserve is the only place in the world where killer whales are known to rub their bellies on the gravel bottom.

If you want to see orcas in BC, this is the place to come.

Humpbacks are also staging a comeback after being hunted almost to extinction, and on our first morning we spot two puffs of whale breath hanging in the air offshore, a big one and a little one beside it.

“There’s something called site fidelity,” explains Ashley Hamilton, our lead guide, meaning humpbacks return with their calves to the same area each year.

While seeing numerous orcas and a few humpbacks will be the highlight of our stay, there’s no denying our other attraction to this particular piece of pristine wilderness: the chance to camp in comfort.

The south-facing tip of Swanson Island is where Spirit of the West Adventures has set up a base camp with nine spacious canvas tents boasting real beds with crisp linens and warm duvets (hot water bottles are also provided), a hot shower with ocean view, a covered lounge overlooking Freshwater Bay, and a large kitchen and dining area. A wood-fired hot tub is the pièce de résistance, ready on our return from each day’s kayaking adventure.

“You’ll hear lots of sounds at night, but don’t worry,” says Ashley before we retire the first evening. “If you hear what sounds like dinosaurs fighting, it’s herons.

The sound of a ‘gunshot’ is a whale breaching. And when the whole ground seems to vibrate? That’s a cruise ship going by.” boulevardmagazines.com |

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The next morning, we quickly get into the groove of our fourday stay with a paddle after breakfast. Guide Mitch Raynard helps me into my kayak and I push off into the bay where yellow blades of bull kelp float on the surface like Rapunzel’s hair.

Once everyone’s afloat we group up and paddle along the rocky shoreline, keeping one eye out for black bears that might be foraging for shellfish at low tide and another eye on the horizon for tell-tale whale blows.

The numerous small islands in this area and the narrow channels between them provide protected kayaking routes, even in windy weather, Ashley explains when we break for lunch on a beach strewn with bleached and broken shells.

The Broughton Archipelago is known for its ancient clam gardens cultivated by indigenous people over the millennia.

The terraces of some are still visible today, along with shell middens.

After a picnic lunch we explore one small island on foot, stopping to examine culturally modified trees and learn more about the importance of Western Red Cedar to coastal First Nations. It was the “tree of life,” used to make everything from clothing to canoes and from baby baskets to burial boxes.

Paddling back to camp the tide has changed and now we’re going with the current. Before we know it, home base is just around the corner.

“Let’s aim for the hot tub,” says Ashley as Swanson Island comes into sight.

While we’ve been off having fun, camp chef Gaspard Laniece has been hard at work, and awaiting us in the lounge is a beautiful spread of hors d’oeuvres; cheese and crackers, cold cuts and smoked salmon, olives and bread.

Early the next morning I’m up with the sun after an unusually deep sleep. Following a well-worn trail through the undergrowth of ferns, salal and huckleberry, I find Gaspard in the kitchen dipping slices of bread into a bowl of broken eggs for French toast.

“It’s the calm before the storm,” he says, nodding at the flat water beyond. The forecast today is for 25- to 30-knot winds, along with rain. But the guides aren’t worried, so why should we be? We’re warm, dry and well fed. In fact, Gaspard has ensured we’re very well fed.

That afternoon, a local, indigenous man takes us in his 104

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covered motorboat for an afternoon of exploring further afield in Blackfish Sound. Heading into open water, the wind picks up and the water turns choppy. We pass two rocky islands that squirm with dozens of plump and playful sea lions. Further off we see black blades slicing the water. A National Geographic cruise ship has paused its motors and our guide turns his off too.

Standing on the back of the boat we drift in silent expectation.

The grey sky spits rain. Soon, orcas are everywhere, popping up like black and white submarines before descending again in graceful arcs.

The Brits become hugely excited.

“Look, look, look,” yells Jake when he spots a large orca steaming directly toward us. “He’s coming under,” cries David, and we all watch, mesmerized, as the orca dives, then surfaces on the other side. “Oh my God, that was fantastic. You can’t trump that.”

Or maybe you can.

Early on our last morning I’m in the hot tub enjoying a muted sunrise through the mist while some of the others go for one last paddle. As he feeds the hot tub with wood, a worker tells me there’s a humpback out there somewhere.

“We haven’t see him yet, but we heard him. He’s trumpeting like an elephant.”

Moments later we hear it again, and it’s like something out of Africa, strangely exotic and evocative.

When the paddlers return, we know they’ve seen something good.

“He breached right in front of our kayak,” says David’s wife, Suzanne, with tears filling her eyes.

That upwelling of gratitude is contagious. Leaving this special place, we all feel lighter, happier and more in tune with a natural world that never ceases to amaze.

If you go: The four-day Whales and Wilderness Glamping tour is offered

by Spirit of the West Adventures from mid-June through midSeptember. Prices from $1,695 per person. kayakingtours.com.

Tours begin and end on Quadra Island. The Heriot Bay Inn is a delightful place to stay on the waterfront before and after your tour. heriotbayinn.com

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FRONT ROW

BY BRENDA GIESBRECHT

A ROUNDUP OF ARTSY HAPPENINGS TAKING PLACE IN THE OKANAGAN THIS SPRING AND SUMMER. FINE DRAMA AND ART,OPERA, HISTORY AND A FUNDRAISING ART AUCTION.

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CAMELOT KELOWNA ACTORS STUDIO, KELOWNA

T

RICK BOND, ALL TITLED AND COURTESY HAMBLETON GALLERIES

MAY 29 TO JUNE 16

HE story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is indeed the stuff of legends: chivalry, noble quests and idealism. But all is not well in the magical kingdom, and therein lies the tale of Camelot.

Created by theatre legends Lerner and Loewe, Camelot is an adaptation of T.H. White’s fantasy novel The Once and Future King.

It premiered on Broadway in 1960, winning several Tony Awards and has been reprised several times since. The original Broadway cast album, with its rich score, topped the charts for 60 weeks.

And now this classic show comes to the Kelowna Actors Studio stage.

“Camelot is a lush and extravagant musical with stunning fairy-tale elements,” said Dawn Ewen, artistic producer and director. “Full of betrayal, seduction and acts of evil, it’s the most legendary love triangle of all time. I’m looking at this Broadway classic with a modern sensibility that I hope will please all of our patrons. I am very pleased to be collaborating on this timeless musical.”

Kelowna Actors Studio offers evening performances with the option of dinner before the show, as well as Saturday afternoon dessert matinées. There is also a commemorative bead available, provided by Bead Trails Kelowna.

RICK BOND SOLO SHOW HAMBLETON GALLERIES, KELOWNA JUNE 13, OPENING NIGHT, 5-8 PM

Hambleton Galleries is excited to present a solo exhibition of works by Vernon artist Rick Bond. An established Western

Rick Bond’s “Rolling Hills.”

Canadian artist, Rick has been painting since 1980, originally with oil, then watercolour and now primarily with acrylic on canvas.

“His genres, urban and rural landscape and musicians, are created with loose vibrant style and could be considered contemporary impressionism,” reads his biographical statement.

Rick’s work is represented by public and private galleries across Canada.

Rick took his art training through the Emily Carr Outreach Program, Okanagan University College, Pearson College Summer School, Federation of Canadian Artists and other professional workshops.

Upon his retirement as Manager of Pharmacy Operations at Vernon Jubilee Hospital, he became a full-time working artist. He has received many awards for his artwork over the years, been published in a number of publications, and his works have been commissioned by many private individuals and corporations. He’s also well known in the region for his community work and support for fundraising activities.

Rick will be painting during the opening night event at Hambleton Galleries, but don’t be afraid of interrupting him.

His friends will tell you that he’s a very nice guy who really loves art and is genuinely interested in people. boulevardmagazines.com |

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Classical and jazz trumpet soloist Jens Lindemann performs at Tantalus Vineyards, June 2.

OSO’S RAISE THE CURTAIN

The Okanagan Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 60th season with three fabulous events to help them Raise the Curtain.

This year’s Concert in the Cellar takes place at Tantalus Vineyards on June 2, featuring the fabulous classical and jazz trumpet soloist Jens Lindemann. Guests will be treated to a three-course winepaired meal created by Chef Ross Derrick of Table Café at Codfathers. Included in the evening is a live auction of special items.

Strings Among the Vines is a new event for the OSO, hosted by O’Rourke’s Peak Cellar on August 25. Enjoy the beautiful views of Okanagan Lake while strolling through the vineyard during this unique movable feast. Each stop along the way will feature a wine produced in that part of the vineyard, paired with the showcase dishes prepared by well-known Kelowna chef Alex Lavroff. Each stop includes music performed by the OSYO Chamber Music Players.

Happening at Red Rooster, another new event, is an afternoon gala on the winery’s patio overlooking the Naramata Bench on September 15. Chef Darin Paterson, owner of Bogner’s of Penticton, will serve his incredible cuisine paired with Red Rooster wines.

Music will be presented by both the OSO and OSYO musicians.

VERNON PROMS VENUES THROUGHOUT VERNON & AREA JUNE 29 TO AUGUST 4

From Renaissance and Baroque to classical and opera, the Vernon Proms music festival will have the North Okanagan 108

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OSO JENS LINDEMANN, PHOTO BY TOMO SAITO

CONCERT IN THE CELLAR GALA, TANTALUS VINEYARDS, JUNE 2 STRINGS AMONG THE VINES, O’ROURKE’S PEAK CELLARS, AUGUST 25 HAPPENING AT RED ROOSTER, RED ROOSTER WINERY, SEPTEMBER 15

buzzing all through July, with live concerts, workshops and free events of a very high calibre.

The festival will be launched with the production of Maria Chapdelaine, an opera created by Vernon’s own Jim Leonard.

It is a coming-of-age story set in 1920s rural Quebec. Cvetozar Vutev is music director, Lana O’Brien the director, and Susan Schaffer the concertmaster, with the chorus and string musicians coming from across the region.

During July, renowned sopranos Nancy Argenta and Ingrid Attrot, early music specialists from the Victoria Conservatory of Music, will be two of the performers and workshop presenters.

Both of these remarkable musicians have performed with orchestras and companies around the world.

Completing the roster of 29 events will be two performances by the remarkable Les Boréades de Montréal as part of its Western Canada tour. Specialists in early music using period instruments, members will be performing the Brandenburg Concertos, widely regarded as some of the best orchestral compositions of the Baroque era.

The full slate of events will be posted at vernonproms.ca and on the Vernon Proms Classical Music Festival Facebook page.

TIME-TRAVELLING AT THE RANCH HISTORIC O’KEEFE RANCH, VERNON

ART AUCTION EXTRAVAGANZA PENTICTON ART GALLERY

JUNE 16 AND JULY 21

JUNE 27

Take your family time-travelling in the North Okanagan by spending a day at Historic O’Keefe Ranch northwest of Vernon. Founded in 1867, it was once the end of the wagon road into the Okanagan Valley at the head of the lake. It’s now a ranching and farming heritage site, open every day from Mother’s Day, May 12, until Thanksgiving in October.

There are special family days once a month throughout the season, starting with Mother’s Day and continuing on with Father’s Day on June 16 and Family Fun Days on July 21 and August 18.

In addition to all the interesting things to see and do at the ranch, these special days include old-fashioned games for children, pony rides and tractor-pulled wagon rides, musicians playing live music, artisans practicing their crafts and vendors with special treats. Father’s Day also features a full pancake breakfast including sausages, fruit and hash browns from 10 am to noon.

Other favourite events taking place throughout the season include Goat Yoga and the ranch’s famous Cowboy Dinner Show.

Visit the ranch livestock, tour the O’Keefe Mansion, take in the all-new exhibits in the refurbished Greenhow Museum, and stop by the General Store for some sweet treats.

Art collectors, particularly those who focus on Canadian artists, are turning their attention to the 42nd annual Art Auction in support of the Penticton Art Gallery (PAG). The dinner, silent auction and live auction take place on Thursday, June 27, with tickets available at the gallery starting May 17. Prospective buyers can also place bids online for the live auction at www.32auctions.com/Summer2019.

Quite possibly the most valuable and rarest item on auction this year is an early gouache painting on paper of four geese by the Ojibwe artist Benjamin Chee Chee. Other artists included in the offering are Aba Dayeksky, Sara Genn, Michael Rothenstein, Louis Malteste and Ghitta CaisermannRoth, to name a few.

“Tracing its roots back to the 1950s, the Penticton Art Gallery offers an annual series of exhibitions along with public programs, a reference library and a permanent collection designed to bring the local and regional community in contact with contemporary and historic art associated with the area while also introducing art and and artists from across the country,” said Paul Crawford, PAG Director/Curator, in a recent statement.

The proceeds from their annual art auction support their annual exhibitions, education and community outreach programs.

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SECRETS&LIVES

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K Building Dreams Powerhouse homebuilder Kim Larson keeps an eye on the future

BY LAUREN KRAMER | P H OTO BY L I A C R OW E

ELOWNA Architectural Technologist Kim Larson — director of All Elements Design.

Manage.Build — is a woman pulsing with ambition and success in a male-dominated industry.

The dearth of women around her doesn’t bother this 39-year-old powerhouse, who is determined, focussed and always pushing herself to exceed and expand. She and her team are in high demand in the luxury residential real estate construction market where they design, build and manage the construction of multi-million-dollar dream homes — all the way from the first imaginings on a blank page to the final nail in the wall.

Kim was drawing homes in her Penticton neighbourhood by the age of six and at 14 started apprenticing at Okanagan Home Crafters, an architectural design firm whose staff taught her CAD (computer-aided drafting) and concept drawings.

“I was born with a fascination for houses,” she says with a shrug.

From the age of 19, Kim began building her real estate portfolio, a passion that persists to this day.

“I bought and sold investment property until I was able to build my first house,” she recalls. Today her portfolio includes multiple investment properties.

From early on, she set her sights on studying in California, so after high school she left for college in South Orange County, enrolling in an architectural technology program. Focussed and dedicated, she doubled up on her classes and graduated 18 months early, top of her class.

“I loved the program so much, it was easy for me,” she explained. “And since I didn’t know anyone there, I just worked, all day long.”

Despite receiving job offers in the US, she was determined to return to the Okanagan. Over the next three years Kim worked in Vancouver, returning to Penticton in 2002 to accept a position with a local architect she had long admired. It was here that her love of being on the job site was truly ignited.

“I would meet with contractors to discuss the houses we were designing and found I really enjoyed the construction side,” she said. “I much preferred being on site to being in an office.”

To supplement her hourly wage of $12, she burned the candle at both ends and commuted to Vancouver on the weekends to continue her work there.

Later, she moved to Kelowna where she joined a construction company as the lead project manager.

Here, she met Stephan Ams, a journeyman carpenter she hired to frame one of her show homes. boulevardmagazines.com |

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How does CHBA benefit you?

The CHBA has over 270 industry leaders locally in the Central Okanagan, over 2,500 members provincially, and more than 8,000 industry leaders nationally. As an association, we have a collective strength and visibility to help serve our industry, all while offering our members a number of direct benefits.

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“We communicated so well together on work,” she recalls.

“We balanced each other’s strengths and weaknesses and our values were just perfectly aligned.”

Soon after, the two began hatching a plan to venture out alone, where they felt they could do a better job in the construction of high-end residential real estate. A year later, in 2009, All Elements was born with Kim at the helm. Her career was just beginning its upward trajectory.

“From the get-go, being one-on-one with our clients was very important to me,” she explains. “I noticed that when they work with other builders, homeowners have to deal with a variety of different people during the process, and I felt having one point of contact would make the whole process more seamless.”

Another point of differentiation for All Elements was Kim’s refusal to subcontract. “We physically build all our projects with a team of carpenters, apprentices and labourers who are on my payroll.”

She started out with a team of three and has 30 on staff today. Over the past decade, All Elements has built many homes in the Okanagan, from Kelowna to Osoyoos, some of them valued up to $10 million. The company’s clients, many of whom do not live locally, seek Kim out because of her reputation for high-end, minimalistic, contemporary homes with high performance, net-zero construction.

A leader in this field, she specializes in houses that are high performance, meaning super airtight, energy efficient and solarready, significantly reducing their greenhouse gas emissions.

“The houses we build are 15 years ahead of their time,” she explains. “We want to continue to be a driving force in high performance construction, and to teach other companies and students how to do this, too, because there is a lack of knowledge of how to do it.”

A regular home can require up to five air changes per hour.

The last home Kim built, a 5,000-square-foot net-zero residence, required 0.6 air changes per hour.

“That means the entire air leakage in the home was the size of a quarter,” she says. “This is the kind of thing we’re passionate about building and teaching.”

Always pushing the limits to do more, Kim has created new divisions of her company in related fields. Her Property Concierge services, where she rents homes when owners are not using them, helps improve client experience. She also offers developer subdivision architectural controls services and land development.

Her work ethic goes far beyond the office and the job site.

Kim’s day begins at 4:45 am, when she trains at the gym for the figure bodybuilding competition she’ll compete in later this year.

The competition requires months of rigorous preparation that includes a regimented diet she follows dutifully each day.

“The gym gets me started for my day, keeps me sane and gives me the stamina I need,” she says. “But I’ve been so blessed to have such a great career. I get to create homes that will last 100 years! It’s a high-stress industry and many times I wake at 2 am thinking about all the things that need to happen on a job site. But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

As a kid she dreamed of owning a home on Lake Okanagan, a dream house that is presently under construction. Her next goal? A house in the Bahamas. Always goal-focussed, Kim is confident this, too, will become a reality five years from now.

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BEHINDTHESTORY

T

HE BOULEVARD fashion team had the incredible opportunity of

travelling to the beautiful Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino for this issue’s fashion shoot. The team spent three days exploring stunning beaches, fantastic food at Shelter and Sobo and the magical forest surrounding the Wickaninnish, all documented by photographer/videographer Darren Hull. Follow our Tofino tour with Darren’s behind-the-scenes video, linked through Boulevard social media, and start planning your own trip to the wild West Coast!

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Photo by Izabel Kazenbroot-Guppy

Venture on.

The new Porsche Panamera.

The new Porsche Panamera is available in a variety of models with features like; new generation higher performing engines from the turbocharged V6 to the Twin-Turbo E-Hybrid model with electrifying acceleration, 84 individual LED Matrix-beam main headlights, Carbon Ceramic Composite Brakes, all to make the driving experience greater than ever. The perfect sports car for your adventures is waiting for you at Porsche Centre Kelowna.

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