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Breathtaking!
Popular travel site calls Osoyoos one of North America’s most breathtaking places
IN THIS ISSUE Couple trades corporate bondage for globetrotting adventure
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PUBLISHER
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Photo Gallery: Spring has sprung
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Grand piano put to good use in Agnes’ memory
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Osoyoos makes Expedia’s ‘breathtaking’ list
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Wetland restoration receives a boost
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Interior Health gives patients online record access
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Young Osoyoos golfer plays with pros in Spain
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Couple trades corporate bondage for backpacks
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Local homework club helps immigrant students
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Osoyoos Museum receives early phonographs
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SOAICL flea market celebrates 15 years
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Around Town events calendar MAY 2017
EDITOR
RICHARD MCGUIRE editor@oksun.ca
AD DESIGN
RONDA JAHN production@osoyoostimes.com
SALES
BRIAN HIGHLEY brianhighley@aberdeenpublishing.com
CONTRIBUT0RS KELSI BISSONNETTE is a Certified Fitness Trainer and Instructor. She has been working in the fitness industry for 20+ years and has owned her own fitness studio.
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Breathtaking!
Popular travel site calls Osoyoos one of North America’s most breathtaking places
ON THE COVER The popular travel website Expedia.ca has made a list of the 34 most breathtaking places in North America. Osoyoos comes in at 25. Osoyoos is “an oxymoron, being a desert town in the middle of lush wine country,” (Richard McGuire photo) See story Page 8.
We welcome feedback from our readers. Send comments to editor@oksun.ca or mail to Box 359, Osoyoos, BC V0H 1V0, Telephone 250-4957225. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in whole or part by any means without the written permission of the publisher. While every care has been taken with this publication, the author(s) and publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this publication. © 2017 Aberdeen Publishing. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement. ISSN 2291-2991.
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Sun Sightings No ‘skateboredom’ here - The laws of nature don’t apply to skateboarders like Logan Hannas, from Oliver, who practises his gravity-defying skills in Lions Park in Oliver. (Dan Walton photo)
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OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 3
Photo Gallery Spring has sprung Clockwise from top left: Walkers and cyclists get out to enjoy the arrival of spring in Osoyoos. (Richard McGuire photo) Ryan Kinihan climbs to the top of this small mountain during a recent hike near White Lake observatory. Now that spring has finally arrived, adventurers are out in droves, making up for being shut in all winter. (Dan Walton photo) Blossoms cover the fruit trees in the orchards of the South Okanagan. It’s now only a short matter of time until they start bearing fruit. (Richard McGuire photo) Zenaya Louie from Oliver takes in the pow wow at Southern Okanagan Secondary School while playing with her mother’s hair. Mom Sarenna Louie brought Zenaya to the cultural event on April 21, when local students took part in dancing activities. (Lyonel Doherty photo) 4 www.oksun.ca
OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 5
Jim Wyse was one of several pianists who tickled the keys of the new grand piano in the foyer of Frank Venables Theatre during a special reception in January. (Penelope Johnson photo)
Grand piano put to good use in Agnes’ memory By Penelope Johnson The Frank Venables Theatre lobby now provides the shimmering setting for a jewel of a piano: a Petrof grand. The glossy black instrument has been donated to the Venables Theatre Society as a memorial to piano teacher Agnes Sutherland, who passed away in March 2016. A “baby sister” to the Yamaha used onstage at the Venables, the Petrof will provide entertainment at small recitals, receptions, weddings, exhibits and gala events
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in the theatre lobby. The fundraising campaign achieved its goal in a matter of months, raising $10,000 for this “lovingly used” instrument. Giving added meaning to the memorial, the piano was purchased from Jeanne Crawford, whose daughter had been a piano student of Sutherland’s many years ago. The family had kept the piano in pristine condition. As proven at a donor reception in January, the piano holds its own in the large lobby. Despite a lofty two-storey ceiling, the instrument’s smooth tones easily filled the
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space. The reception featured several pianists, chosen for their musical variety. Fourteen-year old Chase Alaric amazed the donors with his boogie-woogie blues workout. Jim Wyse tickled the keys with some jazz arrangements, with loudest applause for Oscar Peterson’s moving Hymn to Freedom. Piano students Kendra and Mataya Leinor and Kelan Harty added sophistication with some classical pieces. One of Sutherland’s former pupils, Lisa Elgert, performed Lara’s Theme from Doctor Zhivago. In a fitting tribute, Ginette Aubin lent her powerful pipes to a performance of I Believe, accompanying herself on the piano. Interspersing the musical numbers were several reflections on Agnes’ contributions to the Oliver community. Several members of Agnes’ family were on hand to reminisce, including speeches by her brother Dave Evans and daughter Sally Franks. Penelope Johnson of the Oliver Community Arts Council announced the society had made an additional $5,000 in memorial donations to local schools for capital expenditures in both music and fine arts departments. She also recalled Agnes’ connection to the original Venables Theatre as an accompanist for many SOAP musicals and student recitals. Venables Theatre manager, Deb Martin, expressed her amazement and gratitude for the outpouring of support for the memorial piano. A total of $10,000 was raised with the support of many organizations, including those of which Agnes was a member (the Oliver Sagebrushers and the Oliver Community Arts Council), as well as the South Okanagan Concert Society, Women of Oliver for Women, and the Oliver Community Theatre Society. Roughly 60 individuals also donated generously to the memorial fund. In addition, several of Agnes’ paintings were sold to raise money for the piano. The memorial campaign was cochaired by Marion Trimble and Sally Franks. The funds required to pay for a brass plaque will be raised with a raffle. Prizes are three paintings by professional artist Robert E. Wood of Calgary. Prize winners will be announced on May 11 during the Wine Capital Art Walk. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the Venables Theatre.
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The view of vineyards by Black Sage Road between Osoyoos and Oliver is spectacular. (Expedia photo)
Expedia picks Osoyoos as one of the ‘most breathtaking places’ in North America By Keith Lacey Osoyoos has been named one of the most “breathtaking places” to visit in North America by the popular travel website Expedia.ca. Osoyoos was ranked 25th out of “The 34 Most Breathtaking Places in North America” by blogger Jennifer Cueller in an article published on Expedia.ca last month. “Osoyoos can feel like an oxymoron, being a desert town in the middle of lush wine country,” wrote Cuellar. “But perhaps the extremes are precisely why the grapes grow so plump and the tours around the vines offer sights unlike anywhere else. See rolling vineyards against the warm waters of Osoyoos Lake when you go on a Desert Country Wine Tour. Or see the area on your own when you book a bike with Heatstroke Cycle & Sport.” Expedia also named the city of Penticton in its top five, placing it fourth, and named Haida Gwaii, formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands, in the No. 1 spot. Cuellar wrote that she searched North America to find sweeping landscapes, famous views and sights that elicit the word, “wow.” 8 www.oksun.ca
This is what she had to say about Penticton in the No. 4 spot. “Wine vines and sandy shores — aka, the two best things in life,” she wrote. “Penticton, British Columbia, is located between two lakes and surrounded by rolling mountains and welcoming vineyards. For scenic views of the landscape, lace up your walking shoes for the Kettle Valley Railway Trail. And once you’re ready for something stronger than water, marvel at 40-plus wineries that surround the town. In particular, Bench 1775 Winery has tables that overlook the waters of Okanagan Lake, and Maple Leaf Spirits lets you experience the majesty of the vineyards up close.” In naming Haida Gwaii the most breathtaking place in North America, the blog read, “Remote, wild, and epically beautiful, Haida Gwaii is in a league of its own. Formally called the Queen Charlotte Islands, this archipelago offers a truly breathtaking getaway. Paddle on the untampered waters when you sign up for a kayaking tour (such as with the popular Green Coast Kayaking) through Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. And don’t miss a hike along the mossy Golden Spruce Trail, which
is more than Instagram-worthy, or a trek along Pesuta Shipwreck Hike that stops in front of the wooden bones of the Pesuta, which was wrecked during a rough storm in 1928. Banff-Lake Louise in Alberta ranked third, behind Coronach, Saskatchewan, while Rocky Harbour in Newfoundland and Labrador was ranked fifth. In ranking Revelstoke seventh, Cuellar wrote, “There are places in this world so lovely, you’re not sure if you’re in Canada or Narnia. Revelstoke is one such place. When you’re hiking, paragliding, or skiing around Revelstoke Mountain, you can’t help but wonder if those tall, proud mountains came straight out of a storybook. Consider yourself a hardcore cyclist? You’re going to love the sights from the Keystone Standard Basin Trail. It’s 11 km long and considered a black diamond-level of difficulty. Parkdale, Oregon was the first American entry on the list, coming in at No. 10 and was followed by Hilo, Hawaii in the No. 11 spot. Kamloops was ranked 13th, with Cuellar writing, “Your pooch can enjoy one of the most breathtaking places in British Columbia with you when you head to Kamloops, British Columbia. We’re talking about Peterson Creek Park in particular, where you’ll find scenic trails that offer views of rolling hills and well-tread dirt paths. The jewel of the park is Bridal Veil Falls, a whimsical waterfall that’s a favourite in the area. If your idea of scenic has more to do with swirling wine than misty water, Kamloops has that covered, too. The Kamloops Wine Trail features tastings of reds and whites amongst the vines at local wineries like Harper’s Trail, Monte Creek Ranch, and Privato.” Lillooett, B.C. ranked 15th, one spot above Niagara Falls in Ontario, whose impressive waterfall is world recognized. Tofino, the quaint small town on Vancouver Island,
ranked 20th, with Cuellar writing, “If hippie Volkswagen buses could talk, they’d ask for a summer drive to Tofino, British Columbia. This town is living beach life to the fullest, with perfect surf, soft sand, and sunsets that seem to stretch to the ends of the earth. Chesterman Beach is the most popular stretch of strand. At 2.7 km long, there’s enough space to stretch your legs and tide pools to delight the kiddos. Just remember that sun screen.” You can read the entire list at www.travelblog.expedia.ca/34-breathtaking-places-north-america.
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This area that has been in hay production will be restored as wetland by the NCC. (Richard McGuire photo)
Wetland restoration receives a boost By Richard McGuire A newly acquired 90-acre property north of Road 22 will help the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) restore and protect a vital area of wetlands in the South Okanagan. NCC made the announcement recently at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery at an event attended by a number of environmentalists, including birder and MP Richard Cannings. The land provides connectivity with several other conservation parcels in the Osoyoos Oxbows south of Road 22, extending to Osoyoos Lake. “Wetlands are really critical for nature,” said Barb Pryce, NCC program director for the Southern Interior. “We’re in a pretty arid landscape here in the South Okanagan, so having any sort of water feature like a wetland is really important for birds, animals and humans because they act as filtration mechanisms for clean water.” Pryce said the total cost of the acquisition project was $1.9 million, including the land purchase, associated costs and staff time to develop the project and provide stewardship. The purchase closed on Jan. 12. Much of the land, which was acquired from long-time rancher Jim Pendergraft, has been in hay production. The Osoyoos Oxbows is recognized as an Important Bird Area with birds using the wetland for breeding, nesting, hunting and as a migration stopover. “This whole South Okanagan Valley is a major bird migration corridor in spring and fall,” said Pryce. “It’s also a large valley bottom piece, which is pretty rare now, given 10 www.oksun.ca
that people like to be in the valley bottoms.” Many of the wetland riparian areas since the turn of the 20th century have been drained and farmed. “To find a piece of this size that is connected to other conservation areas is a pretty special thing,” said Pryce. The birds in these wetlands include the only breeding population of bobolinks in the Okanagan Valley, longbilled curlew and yellow-breasted chat. All these are designated as species at risk. Pryce said the area is also used by ducks, geese, various types of owl and bats, which need water and are important to healthy ecosystems. “This morning I saw a great blue heron down there eating mice and having a good time with his lunch,” she said. The project will involve the restoration of some of the agricultural lands to a more natural wetland, similar to what has been done south of Road 22 by NCC and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC). It will provide habitat for such species at risk as the western painted turtle, Great Basin spadefoot and blotched tiger salamander. The project is a partnership with DUC, which contributed funds for the purchase, is a co-title holder and will collaborate on the restoration work. Many other funders contributed to the project including the Government of Canada through the Natural Area Conservation Program, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, B.C. Conservation Foundation, Oliver-Osoyoos Naturalist Club, South Okanagan Naturalists’ Club, Okanagan Similkameen Parks Society, Burrowing Owl Winery and many individuals.
Interior Health giving patients online access to their personal medical records By Dan Walton As Interior Health continues to catch up with the digital age, software is finally available for patients to access their personal information from the Internet. Fewer steps will be required to access personal health statistics for anybody who signs up for a MyHealthPortal account. Staffers from Interior Health were stationed at the South Okanagan General Hospital in Oliver in March to get patients on the net. “It provides patients with access to their health info, Interior Health lab results and things like that,” said David Sookaveiff from Interior Health. “It’s easy to do and it’s there as an information resource.” Sookaveiff says MyHealthPortal will benefit all patients who sign up, especially those with chronic conditions. Sometimes, patients have to take additional doctor trips to obtain their healthcare information, whereas MyHealthPortal can virtually deliver that data anywhere. On other occasions, doctors don’t always inform patients when there are no health concerns. “No news is good news” doesn’t cut it for some patients though and MyHealthPortal keeps them up to date on all of it. By giving people quicker and easier access to their personal health stats, “Patients can have richer conversations with their providers and it enables them that way to better outcomes,” Sookaveiff said. Interior Health launched the initiative in line with the province’s recommendations to improve patient engagement in healthcare. “The portal provides supports to the patient to help them be more empowered and take more control over their individual healthcare,” he said. The main goal is to improve system level outcomes for individual patients. Sookaveiff said there aren’t high expectations that MyHealthPortal will have a major impact on the overall healthcare system.
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OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 11
Scott Rausch (left) tried out his golfing skills in Spain with Wayne Hachey. (Keith Lacey photo)
Young Osoyoos golfer plays with pros on trip to Spain By Keith Lacey After a hectic, but rewarding trip to Spain to learn all the intricacies of running – and playing in – a professional golf tournament, Scott Rausch isn’t giving up his dream to become a pilot. But his love of the game has never been stronger after seeing just how much time and effort professional golfers put into the game in order to become successful. “I’m still planning on being a pilot … but I do have a new appreciation for everything that it takes to become a successful professional golfer,” said Rausch, 17. “The amount of hard work and practice the top guys put in is simply incredible.” The Osoyoos teenager was the latest talented young local golfer to participate in the Create a Star program, which was created by Wayne Hachey, the owner and operator of the Osoyoos Desert Golf Academy. Hachey is also the owner and founder of the Evolve 12 www.oksun.ca
Professional Golf Tour in Spain. For the past five years, Hachey has invited one talented local golfer to accompany him for several weeks to Spain to learn the intricacies of organizing and running a professional golf event. During his visit to Spain, Rausch not only got to play in three events, but he also helped Hachey operate four tournaments where he was asked to do everything from setting pins, handing out and collecting scorecards, posting live scores, greeting golfers when they arrived to play and addressing their concerns after they played a round. “I basically did anything Wayne asked me to do,” he said. “I sort of knew it would be busy, but it’s incredible how much work it takes to run a good professional tournament. “We had a small crew of five or six of us and Wayne had this list of things he wanted us to do. You never stop running around and it’s a lot of fun, but you’re exhausted at the end of a four-day tournament.”
The trip to Spain got off to a rough start as their flight from Kelowna to Spain was delayed due to a snowstorm. They faced several other delays and it took more than two days for them to travel from the South Okanagan to Northern Spain. “It was a hard core trip just to get to Spain and then we missed our connecting flight and had to drive eight hours once we got there,” said Hachey. Once they arrived, Rausch was informed hours before the first tournament that someone had dropped out and he was asked to fill in and would have the opportunity to play against pros for the first time in his young life. “I had to rush back to the hotel and grab my new clubs, that I had just purchased in Spain and had never hit before, and then head back to the course,” he said. “I parred the first hole and thought everything was great … then I hit it in the water two or three times on the second hole and got an 11.” He ended up shooting a very high score, but loved the experience realizing just how tough the courses professionals play on are in comparison to Osoyoos Golf Club, where he grew up playing the game he loves, said Rausch. His best score over the three tournaments he played in was 88 and he had to play exceptionally well to get that score, he said. Hachey said Rausch struggled with his new clubs and overall play, but handled everything with class. “He didn’t get down and kept a smile on his face and was having a great time out there,” he said. “He’s a young guy who got to see just how tough these professional courses can be. “He handled everything really well and I’m really proud of him for that.” Rausch did a great job handling all the jobs he gave him at the four tournaments and his friendly personality made him a favourite with all the pros he met, said Hachey. Rausch said he got to meet other young golfers from across Europe and made some really good friends. “I met guys from Ireland, Scotland, Wales as well as Spain and we had a blast,” he said. “I would say the friendships I made was the highlight of the entire trip.” Rausch, who plans on following in his father Rob’s footsteps in becoming a commercial airline pilot, said he has no intentions of pursuing a pro golf career, but he loves the game and plans on playing golf all over the world. “My job is going to take me all over the world, so what I would like to do is spend a lot of my free time when I’m not working playing golf wherever I travel,” he said. “I got to play four amazing courses in Spain and it made me realize how much I would love to play more courses like that all across Europe.” Hachey said he’s looking forward to continuing the Create a Star program and allowing youngsters like Rausch to travel and enjoy a wonderful life experience, while also exposing them to the wonderful world of professional golf.
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OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 13
Pieter Martin from Oliver and Brianne Boback from Kelowna look out at the mountains in Colombia.
Okanagan couple trades corporate bondage for South American backpacking adventure By Dan Walton There’s a young Okanagan couple that felt like the gift of life was being squandered by the numbing effects of the monotonous nine-to-five grind. But finally, Pieter Martin from Oliver and his partner Brianne Boback from Kelowna are treating the world as their oyster. Earlier in 2017, they minimized their possessions, flew to South America to begin a new life exploring the world. They initially began their careers the safe way, enrolling in university where they both earned business degrees. Afterwards, they found themselves climbing the corporate ladder with promising careers. From a professional point of view, they were succeeding, working 40 to 60 hours each week in the fields of finance and management. But it wasn’t making them feel content. And Martin was working evenings and weekends while Boback worked banker’s hours, so the little 14 www.oksun.ca
free time they did have was difficult to spend together. “Even when we weren’t at work we were still being messaged,” Martin recalls. While they had achieved the “American dream,” they realized it could only offer them a hollow sense of gratification. So they plotted an escape to the matrix. To make a new life, they quit their corporate jobs, sold their coveted belongings and began their adventure by flying to Colombia. “It’s been really nice to not think about everything going on, take each morning for what you really want to do,” Boback said. When interviewed, Martin and Boback had just returned from a coffee tour led by a local farmer. Their commute involved a 45-minute motorbike and truck ride up mountains. “The farmer walked us through each of the steps. He loves doing what he’s doing and showing people,” Boback said. “There were such lush green trees every-
where on the tour. You just need to take in these moments right in front of you and grab them – who knows when we’ll be doing it again.” “It was amazing – we just woke up, had breakfast and then went on three- or four-hour coffee tour with locals,” said Martin. “We got to drink coffee and he sent us home with some.” They were staying in a small hostel that’s located “in the middle of pretty much nowhere,” Martin said. “When we look around where we are, this is unbelievable.” “It’s so interesting seeing other cultures and what people do to survive,” Boback said. “Just their mindsets, they do things a lot different than what we do at home.” Martin notices the common folk in Colombia seem to approach their daily duties with more optimism than North Americans. “They’re a lot happier,” he said. “They’re always smiling and they take pride in their jobs here, whereas back home everyone just can’t wait for Friday afternoon.” Even on Monday mornings – a time of the week they used to dread – Martin and Boback find themselves basking in their surreal experience. “Normally we’d be sitting in our desks at work stressed out,” Martin said. “It makes it that much more rewarding.” Through body language and Google Translate, the couple has managed sufficient communications with the Colombian locals, but the language barrier has been a bigger challenge than they had hoped. “Our Spanish is a work in progress,” Boback said. “Many people here don’t speak any English.” “We’ve gotten by but we have to get better,” Martin said. “But there’s usually a bilingual tourist or someone around who can help.” While they’re not abiding to any set schedule along their journey, their plan includes visits to the quintessential wonders of South America. They hope to experience Machu Piccchu in Peru; Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat in Bolivia; take a tour of the Amazon rainforest; and as Okanagan-born wine enthusiasts, they’re excited to explore the wine regions of Chile and Argentina. Martin’s old classmate from Southern Okanagan Secondary School, Lisa Dell, is currently teaching in the Galápagos Islands, and they’ll be paying her a visit in May. Another friend of theirs from Vancouver is planning to meet up with them in Peru. As for precautions, there are deadly snakes and spiders dwelling in South American, but Martin and Boback said they aren’t anything to be alarmed about. They’re noticing that right now, June bugs are very common in the area. As for concerns involving crime, Martin said he was a little leery upon arrival, but he now compares the streets of Colombia to those in Kelowna. “Five to 10 years ago it had that reputation of danger, but I haven’t felt in danger for one minute since we’ve been here,” he said. “We’re not going around dark alleyways late at night,” Boback said. “The same general precautions anywhere
Pieter Martin and Brianne Boback you go – in Calgary you wouldn’t do that anyway.” Sometimes the couple will spend their nights socializing with locals and other tourists, though they often find themselves sipping on beer and wine, relaxing to the view of captivating sunsets. Their decision to unshackle themselves from corporate bondage had been accumulating for six years as they worked tedious careers in Calgary. After finally turning themselves into backpacking explorers upon arrival in Colombia two months ago, they plan on spending at least one full year exploring as much as they can. And while they’re living frugally off of savings right now, they hope to eventually sustain their free-spirited way of life. And as they continue to grow their social media following, they’re inching towards the dream of being professional travelers. Their Instagram account, where they chronicle their adventures, has accumulated over 30,000 followers so far. With an audience so large and travel-minded, Martin and Boback have a valuable platform for hospitality and tourism companies to promote their services. By offering businesses a plug on their Instagram account, they often benefit from free or discounted activities and accommodations. “It really stretches our budget, making our trip longer and more affordable,” Boback said. To learn their secrets and see what they’re doing, track their journey by following ‘mypassportandyou’ on Instagram, or visit their blog mypassportandyou.com. OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 15
Local homework club helps immigrant students By Lyonel Doherty A relatively new homework club in Oliver is helping struggling immigrant students with their math, science and English. South Okanagan Immigrant and Community Services received a grant from First West Foundation to assist elementary school children who are struggling academically. “We worked with the elementary schools in Oliver to ensure that the less competent, struggling students are not left behind,” said Tahira Saeed, program manager for the centre. With the help of teachers from Oliver Elementary and Tuc-el-Nuit Elementary, students between the ages of six and 12 were referred to the program. It initially began at the immigrant centre on Main Street, but has moved to the HUB centre at Oliver Elementary School. During the weekly sessions, the instructor provides support in math, science and English. Saeed said the program aims to provide a structural environment for first and second generation immigrant students whose parents work long hours and are unable to offer additional academic support to boost their childrens’ learning. The majority of clients who choose to immigrate to the South Okanagan originate from the “family class” immi-
The Homework Club. (Lyonel Doherty photo) gration category. “These families have extensive farming experience and have the incredible ability to work long hours; however, their literacy level is relatively low,” Saeed said. “Parents and caregivers are therefore unable to monitor their child’s academic progress or provide academic support and supervision at home.” By targeting the youth, the project provides indirect support to their parents and grandparents with their integration into the community. Saeed said this further impacts the broader population by building the capacity of the families to positively contribute to their respective communities. For more information, call 250-498-4900.
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Learn how Moe & Tina found their perfect community We’ve experienced something here at The Cottages that we’ve never experienced in any other home we’ve lived previously. We get together as neighbours and socialize, it’s wonderful. We feel like a part of a real community here. We’ve really enjoyed getting to know everyone else that lives here, there’s a real mix of people and we all enjoy each others company. We also love being on our boat. We bring our coffee down every morning and motor around enjoying the views and the breeze. It really is perfect here! Visit our website for more details including photo galleries, home plans, video tours and more homeowner testimonials about our gorgeous location and homes.
Visit our Display Homes » 2450 Radio Tower Road, Oliver, BC See website for open hours.
1.855.742.5555 osoyooscottages.com
OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 17
WELLNESS WORDS Benefits of Yoga in your exercise routine Yoga continues to grow in popularity. In a questionnaire administered every five years as part of the National Health Interview Survey, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health and the National Center of Health Statistics found that the number of people practising yoga increased dramatically between 2002 and 2012, when approximately 21 million adults in the U.S. acknowledged practising yoga. That figure equated to nearly double the number of people who practised yoga just 10 years earlier. The almost meteoric rise in popularity of yoga can likely be traced to many factors, including a growing awareness among the general public regarding the impact a healthy lifestyle can have on both short- and long-term health. An essential component of a healthy lifestyle involves taking steps to protect our bodies, and that can include making an effort to reduce the aches and pains that are often associated with aging. “The relaxation techniques incorporated in yoga can lessen chronic pain, such as lower back pain, arthritis, headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome,” explained Natalie Nevins, DO, a board-certified osteopathic family physician and certified Kundalini Yoga instructor. The American Osteopathic Associa-
tion notes the benefits of yoga extend even further than relieving chronic pain. According to the AOA, yoga can help men, women and even children increase their flexibility as well as help them build stronger, more toned muscles. Additional benefits of yoga
include weight reduction, improved cardiovascular and circulatory health and improved energy and vitality. But the benefits of yoga extend beyond the physical to the mental. The American Psychological Association notes that several studies have shown that yoga can help strengthen social attachments, reduce stress and relieve anxiety, depression and insomnia. For
example, a 2012 study from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that a particular type of yoga that included brief, daily meditation reduced the stress levels of caregivers tasked with caring for people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. One of the more attractive aspects of yoga is that it requires little or no financial commitment on the part of the people who practice it. Unlike fitness centres that typically require members to commit to yearly contracts or even potentially costly month-to-month memberships, many yoga studies do not require long-term commitments, instead asking that customers pay a small amount each time they visit if they are hesitant to commit to memberships. In addition, yoga requires just a mat and some appropriate clothing, ideally clothing that’s conducive to flexibility but not so loose that it will prevent you from performing certain poses. Before including yoga in your exercise regimen, speak with your physician. Once you get the green light, look for a beginner’s course, explaining to your instructor that you are just starting out. Many yoga studios offer introductory classes that help men and women acclimate their bodies to yoga and the various poses it entails before moving on to more challenging poses.
YOGA • PILATES • SPINNING • TRX • STEP • SUP • MEDITATION • WORKSHOPS • RETREATS • WELLNESS
15 Park Place Osoyoos BC 250-689-6020
Sign Up Online
www.osoyoospilates.com Email inquiries contact us wellness@watermarkbeachresort.com 18 www.oksun.ca
MEETINGS
Osoyoos Rotary meets Thursday at noon at McKia’s Restaurant in the Best Western Hotel, Osoyoos. Osoyoos Woodcarvers meet Monday 9:30 a.m. upstairs at the Osoyoos Arts Centre. Call Joe at 250-495-5079 for info.
Kiwanis Club of Osoyoos meets at noon on the second and fourth Monday of each month at McKia’s Restaurant. For info contact 250-495-7701.
Althea@womengrowingstrong.com for more information. Osoyoos Autoimmune Support Group meets every second Wednesday of the month at the Osoyoos Health Centre, 4816 89th St., from 1:15 -3:15pm. Join us for discussions on Sjogren’s, RA, Lupus, Fibro, etc. Everyone welcome. Call Marilyn 250-495-0666.
Soroptimist International of Osoyoos meets the third Tuesday of the month at McKia’s Restaurant, Best Western Hotel, Osoyoos at 6 p.m. Call Joan 250-495-2929 if wanting to attend.
Stroke-Brain Injury Recovery group meets Friday from 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Osoyoos Health Centre, 4816 89 St. Osoyoos Elks #436, second Wednesday meet at 7 p.m., Elks Hall, 8506 92 Avenue. Call Annette at 250-495-6227 or Ken Thibault at 250-495-3936.
Women’s weight loss, “Lean Living”. Weekly meetings, Wednesday at 1 p.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Phone Althea at 250-460-0391 or email
OLIVER THEATRE
O’s Own Writers meet the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Osoyoos Arts Centre. New members welcome. Call Jody 250-4952170.
Enjoy your evening out, taking In a movie at the Oliver Theatre!
May, 2017 Programme
Phone 250-498-2277 Oliver, BC
www.olivertheatre.ca Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues., Thurs. - Fri. - Sat. May 6 - 7 - 8 - 9, 11 - 12 - 13
Sun. – Mon. – Tues. – Thurs…7:30 p.m. Fri. – Sat………….……….7:00 & 9:00 p.m. (unless otherwise stated) Sun. - Mon. - Tue May 21 - 22 - 23
Visit Our Website
Osoyoos Photography Club meets the first and third Tuesday at the Sonora Community Centre. 6:30 p.m. For more information 250-495-4960 osoyoosphotoclub@gmail.com.
Regular Showtimes
Showtimes on Fri. & Sat. @ 7:00 & 9:25 p.m.
The Multiple Sclerosis group meets the second Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Interior Health office, 4816 89 Street, Osoyoos. Call Ron at 250-4984372 or Donna 250-495-5001. Osoyoos Quilters meet on the first and third Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. Call 250-4952254 or 250-495-4569. Evening quilting every first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Vera 250-495-2738. Elks Lodge, 8506 92 Ave.
Violence, frightening scenes.
Thurs. Fri. May 25 26 Thurs. - Fri. May 25 - 26
Parkinson’s Support Group meets on Monday from 1 - 3 p.m. at Sunnybank Lodge in Oliver. Call Rod Freeman 250498-8427 for more info. Toastmasters ... “Where leaders are made”. Drop in any Tuesday 7 p.m. at the Osoyoos Baptist Church, north side entrance, 6210 Hwy. 97. Contact Shauna 250-485-8465 or meandwine@ gmail.com.
Violence, coarse language, nudity.
Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues., Thurs. – Fri. May 27 - 28 - 29 - 30, June 1 - 2
Violence, may frighten young children. Violence, may frighten young children.
Sun. – Mon. – Tues., Thurs. May 14 - 15 - 16, 18 Sun. Mon. Tues., Thurs. May 14 15 16, 18
Closed
Fri. – Sat. May 19 – 20
AA meetings every Monday 7 p.m. St. Anne’s Catholic Church. Every Friday 7 p.m. St. Christopher’s Anglican Church. Call Louise 250-495-1627 or 250-6890415. The Osoyoos Library Book Club meets the third Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in the library. Artists on Main paint Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. upstairs at the Osoyoos Arts Centre. Sue 250-4957664. The Osoyoos Royal Purple meets the third Wednesday (except July and Aug.) at 7 p.m. at the Osoyoos Elks Hall, 8506 92 Ave. For info call 250-495-7788 or 250-495-7561.
Sexually suggestive scenes, coarse language.
Coming In June Coming In June
There will also be a matinee of this show on the Sat. at 2:00 p.m. All seats $6.00 for the matinee.
Programme Subject To Unavoidable change without notice
OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 19
Kara Burton, executive director of Osoyoos Museum, shows two old phonographs that were restored by Allan Gaudreault and are now in the museum’s collection. (Richard McGuire photo)
Osoyoos Museum brings back the music from 130 years ago on wax cylinders By Richard McGuire When Thomas Edison invented the phonograph in 1877, the first recordings he made were on cylinders covered in tinfoil. Over the next decade, when they were commercialized, the cylinders were made with cardboard coated in a hard wax. Now, thanks to Alberta snowbird Allan Gaudreault, the Osoyoos and District Museum and Archives has a couple of restored phonographs that can play the old wax cylinders, along with a collection of music from almost 130 years ago. Last year, Gaudreault restored two more recent disc-playing phonographs for the museum and they’ve become a popular part of the museum’s early music collection. (See Okanagan Sun, July 2016). But the museum had in its collection an old machine that played two-minute cylinders (below, right) which wasn’t working. So Gaudeault, who is passionate about restoring the music machines of the past, took up the 20 www.oksun.ca
challenge. Also, the museum’s cylinders were the four-minute type that wouldn’t play on this machine anyway. “Allan was kind enough to not only fix our two-minute machine, but he got us some two-minute cylinders,” said Kara Burton, museum executive director and curator. “And be brought us back a machine for our four-minute cylinders.” The two-minute cylinders are black and the four-minute cylinders are dark blue. A diamond stylus floats on the grooves and it’s driven by a threaded rod underneath that moves it along the cylinder in synchonization. The amplification is through an acoustic horn. The cylinders enjoyed a brief period of popularity between the mid-1880s and around the turn of the last century. Then they were replaced by discs, the same way that 8-track tapes were eclipsed by cassettes and CDs a century later. Burton says she’s thinking about whether to build an exhibit just around the phonographs or around all the music machines in the museum’s collection, which also
A Look at Mental Illness
This old Edison phonograph plays wax cylinders up to four minutes long. It was donated by Allan Gaudreault, who restored it as well as other phonographs in the Osoyoos Museum’s collection. (Richard McGuire photo)
Mental illness is surprisingly common. One in every 5 Canadians will have a mental health problem at some point in their lives. Greg Wheeler, Pharmacist Mental illness is not a single disease but a term for many disorders, including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders and organic brain disorders. The good news is that all mental illnesses can be treated. To assess your own mental health, answer these questions: Ability to enjoy life - Can you live in the moment and appreciate the “now”without dwelling on things from the pat or worrying about the future? Resilience - Are you able to bounce back from stressful events and hard times without losing your optimism? Balance - Are you able to juggle the many aspects of your life?
This old Edison phonograph plays wax cylinders up to two minutes long. The horn, which amplifies the sound, is directly connected to the diamond stylus that rides on the grooves of the cylinders to play music. It was restored by snowbird Allan Gaudreault and it had already been in the museum’s collection. (Richard McGuire photo) include a couple of organs, a player piano and other items. Children and adults love the disc phonographs already in the collection. “I play them whenever we have elementary kids come in,” said Burton. “We had some Christmas records, so at a Christmas party we were playing Christmas music.
Gaudreault and Burton demonstrated one of the cylinders for the OK Sun: Farrington and Chorus singing It’s a Long, Long Way to Tipperary, a song that was popular during World War I. It’s a bit scratchy, but the old machine brings it back to life. Hear recording at OKSun.ca.
Self-actualization - Do you recognize and develop your strengths so that you can reach your full potential? Flexibility - Do you feel, and express, a range of emotions? If you or someone you know is concerned about mental illness, be sure to contact a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
105-291 Fairview Rd Oliver
250.485.4007
OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 21
President Margaret Ogilvie, Vice President Pat Unger and Volunteer Valorie Paolera were among those celebrating the 15th anniversary of the SOAICL Flea Market. (Richard McGuire photo)
SOAICL flea market celebrates 15 years By Richard McGuire There was coffee and cake on Easter Saturday as a busy flea market in Osoyoos celebrated a successful 15 years. The flea market below Double O Bikes, next to Tim Hortons, raises money for the Southern Okanagan Association for Integrated Community Living (SOAICL), which helps a number of adults with special needs in Osoyoos and Oliver. It’s a busy place with a continuous flow of people up and down the stairs from the basement location in search of bargains donated by people in the community. Pat Unger, vice president of the SOAICL auxiliary, says the flea market sells everything from silver tea sets to camping gear, to furniture, stoves, shoes and books. Just about everything except clothing. “We do not sell clothing,” said Unger. “If we get any donations of clothing, we send them to the United Church (thrift shop).” The flea market is open each Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It takes many volunteers to sort through the donations, which can be picked up from local homes. Unger said the number of volunteers fluctuates between 25 and 40, with more when there are snowbirds in the area. 22 www.oksun.ca
They tend to be retired people, often in their 60s and 70s. Some, like Unger, have family members with special needs. The money raised helps to provide a caring environment for about 38 clients. This means giving them Christmas gifts and helping them with various financial needs throughout the year, Unger said. SOAICL is also able to hire some adults with special needs, who take turns on the truck, picking up donations, or moving furniture in the flea market. Volunteers are always welcome, Unger said, and they can help on Wednesday mornings to sort through the donations. “If we have a lot of donations, especially in the summer, we will do Wednesday and Thursday mornings,” said Unger. “Then the men come in on Friday to place the furniture.” Unger said the auxiliary started in Oliver, but the flea market has operated the past 15 years in Osoyoos. The basement location, however, has undergone numerous changes over its 15 years, including a major renovation in 2015. Both Unger and President Margaret Ogilvie have been with the flea market since its inception, with Ogilvie serving as president for much of that time. If people wish to donate items, they can call Mike Bell at 250-498-7368 to arrange pickups.
MAY The Front Street Gallery presents ‘A Touch of Nature’ by Carolyn Jager until May 25. Gallery located at 60 Front Street, Penticton and is open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. SOAP’s production of ‘Since You Left Us’ will be at the Frank Venables Theatre on May 5 and 6. 7:30 p.m. start. Tickets at Your Dollar Store with More, Sundance Video or venablestheatre.ca. The Soroptimist International of Osoyoos Spring Fashion Show is happening Saturday, May 6 from 9 – 11:30 a.m. at the Watermark Beach Resort - Conference Room. $25 tickets are available at Mills Office Pro in Osoyoos or Oliver Shoes and Fashions. It’s that time of year again for the Mariposa Auxiliary annual yard/ bake sale. May 6 at 2 Dogwood Place, Osoyoos. All donations will be greatly appreciated. Please start saving your stuff! Donations can be dropped off at above address on May 4 and 5. Osoyoos Market On Main opens on May 6 and runs every Saturday through to Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (note the new hours of the market). Live entertainment, artisans, fresh produce, sewing, home baking and so much more. Osoyoos Desert Society Burger and Beer Fundraiser at the Sage Pub on Saturday, May 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. $20 covers a burger platter and a beverage of your choice. Get tickets at Jojo’s or Mills Office Supply. Great live and silent auction items. For info call 250-495-0728.
Friends of the Gardens is holding their spring plant sale at the Summerland Research and Development Centre off Hwy. 97, opposite Sun-Oka Beach Park on May 6 and 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Extensive selection of plants, displays and information. Visit www.summerlandgardens.org. The Osoyoos Lake Dragon Boat Club’s open house is Sunday, May 7 at 1 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Osoyoos. Here is your chance to get out on the water and give it a try. For more information contact Betty Steinbart at 250-495-8166 or check out the website www.osoyoosdragonboat.weebly.com. Make memories matter, Penticton! Show them your support for Alzheimers on Sunday, May 7, 2017 by participating and fundraising in the Investors Group Walk. The Penticton Walk will take place at 2 p.m., registration at 1 p.m. at Skaha Park. For more information call 250-493-8182 or visit walkforalzheimers.ca. The Osoyoos Lawn Bowling Club’s Gyro Jack Attack program for kids 10 -12 years old starts Monday, May 8. Learn to lawn bowl from 3 – 4 p.m. at Gyro Park. $24 for six sessions. Register at the Sonora Centre, phone 250-495-2092 or email lawnbowling@eastlink.ca for more information. Shoes with no heels. Thursday, May 11 the Wine Capital Art Walk runs from 6 - 8 p.m. on Olivers’s Main Street (Fairview to Bank). Art displays, wine barrel painting, auction, draws, live music, wine & appies. 8:30 Wine’d Up party and prizes draw at Medici’s. Info 250-498-0183 OliverCAC@gmail.com.
Saturday morning sailing lessons start on May 13 at the Osoyoos Sailing Club. Visit www.sailosoyoos.ca for more info and to register. Osoyoos Medieval Faire May 20 and 21. There will be a medieval feast, jousting and a medieval village. Tickets are available online at osoyoosfaire.com or at the Osoyoos Times office for general gate admission. The Spirit of Oliver Awards presented by the Town of Oliver will be celebrating the community’s volunteers on Sunday, May 28 at 1:30 p.m. at the Frank Venables Theatre in the lobby. All are welcome and admission is free. Nomination deadline for volunteers is May 8 through the town office. Cactus Jalopies Desert Wine Cruise 2017 takes place June 2 - 4. Show ‘n Shine on Saturday, June 3 at the beach in Osoyoos. WCRA Drag Racing is Sunday, June 4 at the airport. Visit www.cactusjalopies.ca for more details. Drop-in hockey players needed! Men, women, 18+. Sun Bowl Arena, Tuesday and Thursday, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Great exercise workout! Noncontact, no slap shots. Helmet and gloves required. Goalie “Tutor-Shooter.” Send your events to: events@osoyoostimes.com
OKANAGAN SUN • MAY 2017 • 23
Considering Selling Your Home... Call to List Today!
Eileen McGinn
22
8507 Main Street Osoyoos, BC V0H1V0
FEATURE PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
7 Chardonnay Court
NE W
LI ST IN G
The Market is Heating Up NOW IS THE TIME TO LIST
Invest today in the Osoyoos Real Estate Market.... Lakefront condo complex with private sand beach , outdoor swimming pool, hot tub and club house with rec center,& exercise room. This two bedroom 2 bath furnished gem will make this the perfect vacation getaway. Rental permitted; one month or more. Only $264,900 MLS # 166043
55-9400 115th St
Good lake views with underground services close to the Osoyoos 36 hole golf course. Deluxe 55+ Community: Casitas Del Sol Featuring 1250 sq ft rancher with full basement Sewer, water & natural gas at lot line & suitable for one or two level home. GST has backing onto the 11th hole of Gold Course. 3bdr/3bath home with full screened conservatory overlooking the greens and amazing views of the lake and valley. MLS # 162422 been paid MLS#164897
Un I ob DNVE st RE STO ru AM R ’ ct ed S Vi ew s
m Co m “Great investment opportunity in the heart of downtown Osoyoos comprising five rental units. Long term commercial retail tenants with good return. Excellent exposure for future development. MLS #164896 $1,388,000.00
G $45 ol fer 9,0 s D 00 eli gh t
3614 Torrey Pines Dr.
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8302 Main St.
Ea 118 st ,9 Fa 00 cin g
The amazing lake and mountains views make you want to kick back and relax with a glass of wine and never leave home. This beautiful quality built east bench; 3 bedroom 3 bath home is surrounded by new homes. It is only one block from the lake and within walking distance to town. Yet at the same time it is away from the hustle and bustle so it offers the best of both worlds. This home is a MUST see to appreciate the quality of construction and unlimited upgrades MLS 165024 $749,900.00
Desert Surfside
Qualified Buyers looking to buy!
Call Eileen 250-689-8809
Waterfront deluxe 2 bdrm fully furnished condo at Desert Surf Side offers one of the most outstanding views in Osoyoos. MLS# 161599
Lots for Sale Osoyoos Premiere Gated Community
11201 - 115th St
RV LOTS SELLING FAST!!!
56
O 00 SQ nl y $ FT B 64 LD 9,0 G 00
LAST remaining lots located in the Premiere Gated Community of Sonora Ridge...a hidden Gem on the East Bench of Osoyoos. Watch the sunset across Lake Osoyoos and the eagles soar above the mountains. Santa Fe Inspired Homes with Award winning landscaping truly make this a unique community. One block from the beach and within walking distance to town, shopping, parks and a short distance to many outstanding wineries. Relax and enjoy Sonora’s common area with its peaceful; water park with pond, waterfall, and walking paths. MLS# 164452, 164453, 164454, 165347, 164314, 158502 lot prices starting at $229,900
The weather maybe warming up but the market is really heating up in Osoyoos! Unique one of a kind building in the industrial area with 2800 sq ft living space with mtn. and lake views over 2800 sq ft industrial/commercial space. Start your own business and have accommodations for employees on site. Lots of space for parking and expansion with easy Last RV sites available on Osoyoos Waterfront property. Invest today in Canada’s only Desert Community with World Class Wineries, Golf Coursaccess off the highway across from small airstrip. Don’t miss out on this one. MLS #158546 es, Fabulous Beachfront and breathtaking views every way you look. SEVERAL LOTS AVAILABLE!!! STARTING AT $99,000
OSOYOOS MOUNTAIN RETREAT
141 Falcon Place
Stunning TIMBERFRAME Home designed to embrace The ULTIMATE OKANAGAN LIFESTYLE. Unparalleled and unobstructed views, walls of windows, soaring ceilings, state-of -the-art kitchen, dramatic lake and mountain view deck with hot-tub, Master bedroom retreat, two additional bedrooms, open office overlooking the grand living area and a totally private separate one bedroom suite over triple car garage all within minutes to some of the top wineries and ski area in the Osoyoos Region. This home is an award winning design and must been seen to appreciate the quality of workmanship throughout. MLS# 165657 $1,659,900.00
24 www.oksun.ca