RTAM Okanagan Chapter

Nancy Kostiuk. Photos by Roy Lycar

The RTAM – Okanagan Annual BBQ and Potluck was held on August 12, 2017 in Oyama, attended by 21 members and guests. Attendees arrived from Salmon Arm to Penticton and points in between. Carol and Pete Rykszynsky graciously hosted the event at their lovely lakeshore home. Pete, along with Lorne Lisik tested the waters and went for a refreshing swim in Kalamalka Lake. The table displayed an amazing variety of dishes, from tasty salads to a glamorous Limoncello cake. Lorne Lisik mastered the BBQ and all production was done to a turn. Members and guests, old and new, mingled and visited, having an enjoyable afternoon, despite the hazy atmosphere. As Lorna Rothwell, my passenger, and I were leaving to turn south toward home in West Kelowna, we were met by the flashing lights of an RCMP cruiser. The officer informed us that the highway south had just been closed due to a roadside fire in Winfield, so we were turned away in the opposite direction. What to do? Our solution was to travel further north and connect to the Westside Road at the tip of Okanagan Lake, across the way from the fire. Driving the Westside Road would not be on anyone’s bucket list due to the numerous S-curves and switchbacks on mountainous terrain. However, the drive was very scenic and we did see some wildlife, a big-horned mountain sheep grazing roadside. Thank you to RTAM for the Chapter Initiative Grant which enables us to connect with RTAM members and new retirees living in the Okanagan area. Members received an etched stemless wine glass to celebrate Canada’s 150 th birthday. ¡