Skaha Matters May Issue by Skaha Matters

Skaha Matters

Volume 14 : Issue 5 May 2022 Your FREE Monthly Community News!

“Bringing Community Matters To You”

Visit the Vaseux Lake Bird Sanctuary south of Okanagan Falls. Photo by Malibu Dreams Photography | To purchase photos, call 250.462.5513.

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Wishing everyone a Happy New Year and all the best in 2022!

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Mother’s Day ... And Much More!

From The Hill

By Myleen Mallach, Owner/Publisher

By Richard Cannings, MP South Okanagan-West Kootenay

Wishing a very Happy Mother’s Day to all our moms out there! Be sure to do something special on Sunday, May 15 to show you care. This issue is packed full of information on local businesses, various local non-profit groups, community issues, government updates and much more. The Weekly eCalendar is bursting with events and activities, so be sure to sign up online and don’t miss a thing. If you have something to contribute, the deadline is between the 1520th each month. Email skahamatters@telus.net to find out more.

Dental Care. Pharmacare. Aﬀordable housing. Better seniors care. Climate action. These are the top concerns of people on almost every doorstep I’ve ever been on. In March, NDP Members of Parliament used their power to deliver the biggest expansion of health care in a generation.

Up To Date Weekly eCalendar! Sign Up Online

Quick Facts: Skaha Matters is published every month. All residents and businesses in Kaleden, Heritage Hills, Okanagan Falls, Skaha Estates, St. Andrews, and Twin Lakes receive an issue via Canada Post on the last business day of each month. Limited locations also carry copies. For full advertising details, please visit www.SkahaMatters.com.

Please Note: No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this publication. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement, and retain the right to edit all copy. Every effort has been made to make this publication as accurate as possible. All authors and advertisers are provided with a proof of their submission and their final approval must be received to be published. © 2022 Okanagan Matters Publications.

Richard Cannings

Member of Parliament South Okanagan - West Kootenay

Richard.Cannings@parl.gc.ca 250.770.4480

#202 - 301 Main Street Penticton, BC V2A 5B7

Mike, Kyle, and family would like to thank everyone for their warm welcome and support.

A new national dental care plan will provide coverage to millions of lower income Canadians, who will now be able to afford to go to a dentist, giving them the preventative care they need to stay out of hospital emergency rooms, and allowing all young people to grow up with healthy teeth, avoiding the visible stigma of unsightly teeth that is a strong barrier to getting a decent job. By 2023, Canada will have a national Pharmacare Act and within three years we will have the single buyer power of a national pharmacare program that will save our country at least $4 billion every single year. We could pay for four dental care programs with those savings alone. In this agreement, we’ve held the Liberals to account to make significant investments towards truly affordable housing and have won meaningful action to tackle climate change, including accelerated measures for emission reductions, just transition legislation, and real action - at last - to phase out subsidies to the fossil fuel sector. This is exactly what we promised at election time. But let’s be clear: this deal and all the benefits for Canadians that flow from it would not have happened unless New Democrats pushed the government to act. In the past year, the Liberals and Conservatives have both voted down the NDP bills that would have created a dental plan and pharmacare, the very bills the government will now be bringing in. The confidence and supply agreement between the federal NDP and Liberals has many more wins that will make a real difference for all Canadians. I have always been very clear that I entered into politics to work across partisan lines and deliver good policy that helps those that need it most. This is what this agreement is about. This agreement does not create a coalition government and it certainly does not mean that I won’t do my job as an opposition MP. I and my NDP colleagues will continue to hold this government to account on its promises. This agreement only promises support at specific times for matters of confidence and supply (budgets). We will provide reasoned input to those budgets and continue to vigorously critique all other government motions and legislation. And, if at any time we decide the Liberals are falling short on their side of this deal, we will not hesitate in pulling our support. Canadians don’t want another unnecessary election that would only create a parliament very similar to the one it replaced. By working across party lines, we have achieved our singular goal that everything we do must help ordinary Canadians. In the last few weeks, Canadians have heard a lot about the divisions in our country. This is the time for politicians to work together and put the needs of Canadians ahead of partisan politics. This is exactly what this agreement does.

“We're excited to be Opening Soon in Okanagan Falls. We're also excited to be a part of growing in this beautiful part of the Okanagan. As we are hands-on grocers, we look forward to serving the community with our full service grocery store.” Follow us on Facebook at “Belich's AG Foods Okanagan Falls”

I close with the sad news that my long-time constituency assistant in Penticton, Andrina Calvert, passed away on March 18 after a long battle with Leukemia. Andrina was a remarkable person with an amazing ability to connect with those who reached out to my oﬃce to get help. We will all miss her terribly.

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Monthly MLA Report By Roly Russell, MLA Boundary-Similkameen It’s been a busy spring in Victoria and at home in the riding! May promises to maintain that pace, with much on the legislative agenda, as well as outreach and advocacy work on the home front. Now that we are able to be out in the riding more, your MLA Community Oﬃce just welcomed two new members to the team - David Lubbers (Keremeos, permanent part-time) and Glenn Thompson (Oliver, temporary) will be joining Sarah and April and I, to hear from you how we’re doing, and what more we can do to continue to improve our ability to serve you well. Last month provided me a few opportunities for me to speak in the legislature about the critical role that economic diversification plays for our rural communities and their ability to thrive. The pandemic has demonstrated that the rural lifestyle appeal of our communities can be met with creative and meaningful work - I see a key recovery role for our government being how best we can support that development. Our economic plan (StrongerBC) has a clear focus on the same: supporting inclusive and sustainable growth that will be good for all of us in the long run. We saw more people immigrate to BC in 2021 than we’ve seen since 1961; that, coupled with an estimated one million job openings in the next ten years, means that our rural communities are set to thrive. Complex concerns like housing and rural healthcare remain top of my list to address in order to support our communities reaching their full potential. The number one issue on my mind for the South Okanagan currently is recruitment and retention of primary care healthcare professionals, particularly doctors. We have been engaging the Ministry of Health, as well as Interior Health, and local governments. An important part of my current role is to help this

strong partnership develop creative local solutions to a problem that is common across the province. In disaster recovery, I’m thrilled to announce that after many, many, conversations with local leaders and the multiple ministries involved, over $50 million more has been announced to help support creative community recovery in places like Princeton and Merritt. Given the availability of veterinary doctors has been another historical limitation we’ve struggled with in rural BC, especially on farms. I am also pleased to announce that recent investments have doubled the number of students entering and graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Finally, the invasion of Ukraine remains in our thoughts always. We are doing what we can to assist and welcome Ukrainians, through supports like a Ukraine-specific webpage to help people navigate the process of joining our BC communities. As another example, we’ve helped students by waiving tuition fees where possible, and we’ve been in active conversations about how best to streamline and demystify the process for internationally educated nurses to become licensed. The Welcoming Ukraine website also includes details about how you can help support people from Ukraine, for example as a homeowner oﬀer housing, or an employer oﬀering work. Check it out! Your Community Office:

(post) PO Box 1592, Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H0 (ph) 250-498-5122 (web) RolyRussellMLA.ca (em) Roly.Russell.MLA@leg.bc.ca

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Explore Canada’s Desert By Jayme Friedt, Managing Director Located on the southern edge of British Columbia’s beautiful Okanagan Valley is an extraordinary habitat popularly referred to as Canada’s pocket desert. This semi-arid, antelope-brush ecosystem is one of Canada’s most rare and endangered habitats. It’s also home to one of the highest concentrations of unique and at-risk species in Canada. Over the past century, 70% of our antelope-brush landscape has been destroyed and today it is estimated that less than 9% remains undisturbed. In the early 1990s, a group of concerned citizens eager to protect this natural treasure formed the Osoyoos Desert Society. In 1998, the Society opened the Osoyoos Desert Centre, a 67-acre nature interpretive facility where visitors learn about desert ecology, habitat restoration and conservation of endangered plants and animals in the South Okanagan. One of the signature attractions of the Osoyoos Desert Centre is a 1.5 km boardwalk trail that meanders through the habitat. Last year, the Centre received a provincial grant to replace the original wooden boardwalk that had reached the end of its life. With the 2022 season underway, the beautiful new composite boardwalk is in place oﬀering an elevated view of the plant and animal life that exists there including Spadefoots, Behr’s Hairstreak butterflies, Nuttall’s Cottontail, Western Bluebirds and of course, antelopebrush, several species of sage and the prickly pear cactus to name a few. Other features of the Centre include an interpretive building with hands-on educational displays and a native plant demonstration garden. Visitors can also browse through the Gift Shop, enjoy a snack in the outdoor picnic area, or relax at one of the kiosks and take in the spectacular views. Osoyoos Desert Centre is located 3 km north of Osoyoos at 14580 146th Avenue. Hours vary throughout the spring, summer and fall. Please check the website at www.desert.org or call 250-495-2470 for more information.

Professional Office/Studio Spaces Available Lots of On-site Parking Prime Highway 97 Exposure Long-term or Short-term Rentals Call 250-270-0838

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YE RA

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SkahaMatters.com | April 2022 | Page 5

FROM THE DIRECTOR For RDOS Area “D”

is to proceed to phase 2 incorporation study that all communities within Area “D” be included and that a vote on the primary area as yet to be determined follow. A secondary vote could be held at the same time for communities like Upper Carmi and McLean Creek Happy Mother’s Day! I am writing Road allowing residents in those areas to participate and receive this on April 19, 2022. Things may valuable information and then, if the primary question is answered have changed by the time you read in the affirmative, to have the democratic opportunity to vote to be this article. A lot is happening in our included or stay as the remainder of Electoral Area “D”. I do not community! We are beginning down know if my proposal will receive the support of the committee. a path of change for the better. Most of us are cautious and rightfully so. I asked that all who are interested in this process to review the We don’t want change for the sake of materials which are available at the RDOS website and provide Ron Obirek change. And, we certainly don’t want comment, written or in-person to the committee. The committee Director of things to get worse or more expensive. expects to make a final report recommendation in June and there RDOS Area “D” And so, we are cautious and careful. is little time left for those who are interested to have their concerns And yet, a lot of change is happening right now and a lot of that heard. change is for the better. I am not allowed to vote at the committee, but I do have a vote I wish to welcome Kyle Belich and his family to our community. Kyle when this matter comes before the RDOS board. I value input and and his family have many decades of experience in the grocery feedback and comments from all members of Electoral Area “D” business and are soon to open Belich’s AG Foods in Okanagan and look forward to all. Falls at the old IGA location. I’m sure many will join me in wishing We have learned a great deal through the public open houses and Kyle and his family success in this very welcome change to our panel discussion meeting. Communities that have incorporated in community. BC in the last 15 years have done so without any material increase Thank you to all who are participating in our community efforts in taxes when compared to what the taxes were or would’ve been to improve our relationship with the police with the goal of without incorporation. receiving better value in our police service. I have had numerous The greatest benefit, in my opinion, of incorporation is democratic meetings and telephone calls with our RCMP designated liaison accountability. It is likely that a council of four with one mayor would officer Sgt. Andrew Bayliss and have received good support from be elected at large. This means every voter would get to vote for Superintendent Brian Hunter of the RCMP and the community each of the four council members and the mayor. Currently, we policing support of RCMP Constable Rick Dellebuur. I believe can only vote for the one electoral area director, which sits on change for the better is possible in this area of significant local the RDOS board which currently has 19 members and will soon concern. The RCMP are committed to working with us addressing have 20 (recent census data indicates that Penticton will get one community concerns and assisting with training for residential more appointment meaning Penticton will have 5/20 members on and business Community Watch, Citizens on Patrol, and related the board. Nine of the 20 will be from nine electoral areas. The community-based initiatives. Please watch for upcoming public remaining 11 will be appointed from the six municipalities. One of meetings. This process has just begun and much information will the challenges with the Regional District system is that there is no be available. Everyone is welcome to attend and express concerns democratic accountability within our area for 19 of the 20 members and ideas and suggestions. on the board. The Electoral Area “D” Service and Boundary Configuration Study Incorporation brings a further benefit of more powers and Committee received a consultants report on Wednesday, April authorities than are available under the Regional District system. 13, 2022 setting out a summary of information gathered at the For example, we could pass a parking bylaw prohibiting overnight five public open houses (held February 16, 17, 23, 24, and 26, parking at the beach and provide the police the much-needed tool 2022) and the one panel discussion meeting of March 5, 2022. of a tag and tow authority. Four boundary options are proposed for consideration. The first Incorporation would also provide eligibility for grants that we option is Okanagan Falls only (see rdosregionalconnections.ca presently don’t qualify for, because we are not a municipality. for maps and more detail). The second option is Okanagan Falls Clearwater which incorporated in 2007 (population approximately and Eastside South (Skaha Estates) and North (Heritage Hills and 2400) estimates that it received $27 million in grant money that it Lakeshore Highlands). The third option is Okanagan Falls and would not have qualified for had it not become a municipality (this Vaseux Lake. The fourth option is Okanagan Falls and Eastside information was provided by Clearwater Mayor Merlin Blackwell South and North and Vaseux Lake. at the March 5, 2022 panel discussion meeting). These types of None of the four options included Upper Carmi or McLean Creek grants are specific for municipalities and are for infrastructure Road or the titles west of the Okanagan Falls/River on Green including roads, water, sewer, public amenities, etc. The tax dollars Lake Road and the three titles north of the Trestle Bridge. I am we have been paying for over 55 years to Ottawa and Victoria Page 1 of 3 watching with interest. I have expressed concern have been redistributed to other municipalities throughout BC, but regarding excluding the titles west of the Okanagan Falls/River on not to us. Incorporation would allow us to qualify for our share of Green Lake Road and the three titles north of the Trestle Bridge. I our tax dollars. believe the Trestle Bridge and all the properties on the west side of If we were incorporated tomorrow and change none of the services Okanagan Falls/River on Green Lake Road or north of the Trestle we are presently receiving, we would be financially ahead on the Bridge should be included within the Okanagan Falls boundary. I first day. For example, garbage collection service would cost the also question whether properties on McLean Creek Road should exact same amount and would be provided by the exact same be excluded. For decades, the residents in these areas have gone service provider with no change in cost or quality of service. to church, school and shopped in Okanagan Falls and I believe Interestingly, if we were a municipality, we would receive 5.25% have a strong connection to the history and community. admin fee of our current budget of approximately $2,750,000 for Regarding Upper Carmi, I have proposed that if recommendation a total of approximately $144,000. We would also receive a utility franchise fee of approximately $40,000. $144,000 plus $40,000 is Page 6 | May 2022 | SkahaMatters.com

approximately $184,000. The salary of the mayor of Oliver is approximately $30,000 and is close to the same as your Electoral Area “D” Directors stipend and meeting fees. City of Oliver council members are paid approximately $16,000 per year. Even if our council members were paid $20,000 per year (for a total of $80,000 per year for four council members) there would be a net savings to the community of approximately $100,000 on the very first day ($184,000 - $80,000 = $104,000). And as a municipality, we would have benefit of having better relations with road maintenance services, police services, and other provincial department relationships, because municipalities enjoy a diﬀerent level of experience than electoral areas. As a municipality, our area would still have a seat at the RDOS board and would therefore lose no benefit of input on matters of regional concern in the Regional District. I am scheduling my first “Coﬀee with the Director” meeting in a long time for Monday, May 9, 2022 at 10 am at the Okanagan Falls School in the Club Room. Everyone is welcome. The Club Room is the small meeting room next to the School Gymnasium (entrance on north side of school). As always, I welcome telephone calls and emails to listen to any concern or just to share ideas.

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bumped up to the next level. With the cooperation of all of us in the community, we were able to keep our reservoirs and pumps safe and at acceptable levels. Training has and will be front and center for the district. Kim enrolled in a municipal officer’s course, which moved her up to Ron Obirek, Director of RDOS Area “D” the level of corporate officer and allows her to oversee our votes Direct: 250.328.9800 | robirek@rdos.bc.ca | www.rdos.bc.ca tonight. The operators have continued with their training, which this year included Operations and Maintenance, Small Water Office Hours: Tue/Wed/Thu from 9:30-4:30 Systems, and Advanced First Aid. 1109 Willow Street, Okanagan Falls What transpired in the fall, had a lot to due with what went on in the P: 250.497.8541 E: ofid@telus.net past. In 2018, the board had an asset replacement report prepared. It’s a report that told us at the time what it would cost to replace www.okanaganfallsirrigationdistrict.ca everything we owned and operated. Based on the report, our rates adjusted to cover the necessary costs. In 2020, we asked Okanagan Falls Irrigation District News were our engineers to prepare a master plan for the district. This would By Randy Perrett, Chair identify the major projects that needed to be completed, not only to On April 20, the Irrigation District held it’s Annual General Meeting comply with Interior Health regulations, but to keep the district up at the Senior’s Centre. At that time, we asked the rate payers to to speed with what we need at present and to build for the future. vote whether or not to convert the Irrigation District to the RDOS. In the fall, with developers knocking on our door and after going The results were as follows. 81 ballots were cast. 75 voted for over our needs, without outside help and government funding, the conversion. 6 voted against. We will then proceed with the going over our reserves and resources, it became evident that it was time for some help. We as an Irrigation District couldn’t carry conversion process. on alone forever. After much deliberation, the board decided that a Below is my report that I delivered at the meeting. conversion from the Irrigation District to the RDOS was the right thing Mission Statement: The mission of the Okanagan Falls Irrigation to do. This is why the conversion vote is on our agenda for tonight. District is to provide a reliable and safe supply of drinking water to The month of March in basketball circles has become known as our community, and to develop, maintain and improve our district “March Madness”. In the OFID office, that is certainly the case services now and into the future. The planning and work done by between billings and payments, the usual day to day operations staff and trustees this past year has been directed to continue of the office and this year’s conversion requirements, which would bringing equipment, practices and procedures to a high standard require reports from engineers, accountants, Interior Health, and and toward improving all aspects of our operations many others that assist us. Kim has kept it all together and I owe In April and May of last year, Covid was still a driving factor. Our her special thanks. office remained closed. Masks were the rule of the day. Zoom was A couple of weeks ago on April 6th and 8th, the Irrigation District our new normal for meetings. But, we pushed on. We kept up with held two Open Houses at the Seniors Centre. It was a chance for spring flushing. We implemented our water restrictions, and our all of the rate payers to attend, to read our poster boards, and to operators took on additional training. By June, things started to chat with all of the trustees, our operators, Kim, and Liisa from heat up. The temperatures were well above normal. Our wells and the RDOS. We had a turn out of about 40. I think that those who reservoirs were getting low and we knew we needed to do more in attended left with a better idea of what we are trying to do. our day to day operations and summer time planning. Fires were at our doorstop, and smoke clouded our sky’s and filled our lungs. I’d like to thank all of you for attending tonight and participating in a vote that may be difficult for some of you. The entire process has We assembled a team to draft policies and procedures that would been difficult for the trustees and myself as well. get us through extreme heat, extreme cold, and extreme smoke. Catherine Giesbrict, one of our valuable trustees and retired nurse, This report is respectfully submitted. and our operators Liam and Travis, as well as our summertime student Marcus Granger, put together an action plan that could be House Cleaner, Support Worker, Need a part-time used and shared by many other districts. It is a document to be summer cleaner? Lawn Maintenance ... and much more! proud of. One that covers off not only operators safety, but how to For more info, call Kris at 250.809.3414 protect our facilities and also benefit the community. SkahaMatters.com | May 2022 | Page 7 As summer moved on and stayed hot, our water restrictions were

Services for the Heart & Home

FROM THE DIRECTOR For RDOS Area "I" Spring is in the air in Area "I". There’s lots going on in our community.

Kaleden Irrigation District News By Bruce Shepherd, KID Trustee A Century of Service! The Kaleden Irrigation District was established as an Improvement District on March 11, 1922, taking over the combined irrigation and domestic water system that had been constructed in 1910 by the Kaleden Fruitlands Development Company. The 1957 Water Rights Branch Report stated that “Since its incorporation, the Kaleden Irrigation District has been one of the best-managed districts under our supervision.” However, the infrastructure was deteriorating and there were water quality issues with the stream-fed system, and the KID Board appealed to the Water Rights Branch for help. With the establishment of the Agricultural and Rural Development Act (ARDA) in the early 1960s, provincial and federal funds became available to help. In 1964, ARDA approved the design of a new system based on pumping from Skaha Lake, and construction was completed in 1966.

I wanted to re-share the exciting news about the upcoming upgrade to the Highway 97 and 3A junction. It is slated to begin in June and be completed shortly thereafter. The upgrade will be a change in traﬃc flow with dedicated turning and merging lanes. I would Subrina Monteith like to thank MLA Roly Russell, the Director of Penticton Indian Band, the Kaleden RDOS Area "I" Volunteer Fire Department and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for all everyone did to make this a safer section for users. MoTI will be monitoring the section of Highway along Kaleden to identify next steps if needed. Fast-forward 56 years, and KID’s current Board of Trustees Watch for FireSmart committee updates with the community event are again dealing with an aging infrastructure, combined with a provincially-mandated upgrade to water treatment standards. in coming on May 7. Please join in making our community safe. Déjà vu, except that the Province now deliberately excludes KID Unfortunately, due to community concerns of Covid-19, the and other Improvement Districts from even applying for federalKaleden Volunteer Fire Department made the tough decision to provincial funding programs, in order to “encourage” them to turn not organize their Annual Garage Sale this spring. Please read over operation to regional districts or local municipalities. The KID their article this month and watch for updates. Board remains resistant to such “encouragement”, and believes Join RDOS Manager of Parks & Facilities, Justin Shuttleworth, that turnover would result in much higher water charges for our and myself on Tuesday, May 10 at 5:30 pm for a "Walk & Talk" re: ratepayers (KID is watching the Okanagan Falls Irrigation District’s Twin Lake Access Points. Meet at the mail boxes at the entrance “conversion” process closely). to Twin Lakes. We ask that attendees carpool with anyone in their KID continues to fight for access to funding programs, and seems bubble to reduce the traﬃc around the community as we tour the to be making some headway. But your involvement would help; access points. The goal is a walk and talk, not decision making. please contact your MLA and ask why as a taxpayer you are

We ask that you DO NOT DROP ITEMS OFF at the FIREHALL. Thank you for your support. Page 8 | May 2022 | SkahaMatters.com

MEA

KALEDEN

HUB

250-460-3387

We understand that people look forward to this annual event and were anticipating that KVFD would be able to go forward with the Spring Garage Sale. We do apologize and hope that the community will understand. In the fall, we will review the situation once again and keep you informed.

Office Hours: 9-12 Mon/Wed/Thur 119 Ponderosa Avenue V0H 1K0 www.kaledenirrigation.org

HELP

This decision comes after much discussion and looking at the risk versus benefits during this stage of the Covid-19 pandemic. As a volunteer fire department, it is our duty to protect the community when called upon. The membership cannot risk the health of the volunteer firefighters, our support team and their families. This is for the benefit of everyone.

250.497.5407 | k.i.d@shaw.ca

VISITS

In the interest and health of all members of the Kaleden community, the Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department would like to announce that a decision has been made to not hold the annual Spring Garage Sale.

No Spring Garage Sale

The Bill Tolls For Thee ~ If you haven’t already received your 2022 Toll Bill, you should be seeing it shortly. If you don’t, please check that KID has your current mailing address to avoid late payment penalties. Also, please remember that KID issues TWO bills - Toll Bills in the spring, and Tax Bills in the fall.

By Jean Dube

New and Improved ~ Eﬀective April 16, KID switched to full-time use of liquid sodium hypochlorite from chlorine gas for disinfection (the benefits of switching were outlined in my March column).

GRO

Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department

Irrigation Is Up and Running ~ And so are Stage One Water Conservation Measures, along with compliance checks by KID staﬀ. So remember - Three Strikes (watering infractions) and You’re Out (of water), with shutoﬀ and restoration charges applicable.

Subrina Monteith, Director of RDOS Area "I" Direct: 250.460.0723 | smonteith@rdos.bc.ca | www.rdos.bc.ca

supporting infrastructure grants elsewhere, but your Improvement District (KID) can’t even apply?

YE RA

Kaleden Parks and Recreation needs volunteers to be a part of the advisory committee that brings ideas and suggests tax based funding for projects in Pioneer Park, etc. The time commitment is a meeting once a month on a Tuesday evening. Consider getting involved on Kal-Rec, as this is the community’s opportunity to have a voice in decision making. Reach out to me for more details.

KALEDENHUB for knowing and responding to individual and family need in the community

If you live in the Kaleden area and have needs during this time, please call the HUB. Our frozen meals (mostly soup) are available immediately. We can also provide grocery shopping - Please allow a few days advance notice. We are grateful for all the neighbours helping neighbours!

HUB NUMBER: 250-460-3387

Kaleden Community Association Update

KALEDEN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

By Glenda Livolsi The community bottle recycling program continues to be a great success with $2300 received for the latest collection on April 2. These funds are returned to the community through various partners, including the Kaleden Bursary Fund, To Mexico with Love, the Kaleden Community Church, the Kaleden Museum, and the Kaleden Community Association.

Grant Funding Program DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA? Connect Kaleden residents? Enhance opportunities for all residents to participate? Bring neighbours together?

GRANT CRITERIA

The Kaleden Community Association received $765.02 in January and $507.60 in February as part of the bottle recycling program. Our many thanks to all who sponsor our local bottle depot. Also, a reminder that we are now accepting milk containers (but no to cream containers, or pickle and spaghetti jars). Happy Mother’s Day - It’s a day we honour all the women in our lives who have supported and nurtured us. Spend some quality time with a mother, grandmother, aunt, or a special woman in your life; as we all know “A Mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take”. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us via email to kaledencommunity@gmail.com.

Kaleden FireSmart Upcoming Event By Linda Dahl

Kaleden FireSmart Chipping Event Saturday, May 7 | 10 am - 2 pm Meet at the top of Dogwood Avenue • •

Bring all chipping products to the CHIPPER. Bring all long grasses, pine needles and shrubs to the BIN.

In the Spring of 2020 (pre-covid!), a group of neighbours got together and decided that part of their neighbourhood needed to more fire safe. An assessment was completed to determine the work needed and a plan was devised. The neighbours and some members of the Kaleden FireSmart committee came together and worked to clear debris, rake up pine needles and removed an entire bin of burnable product from the property. Well done!

Applicant(s) must be a resident of the greater Kaleden area.

Grant is open to all ages.

Grant activity or purpose must engage and/or connect residents of Kaleden and enhance opportunities for participation.

Grant funding is limited to maximum of $150.00 once a calendar year.

Grant application may be submitted at anytime to kaledencommunity@gmail.com or in writing to Kaleden Community Association Box 136, Kaleden, BC, V0H 1K0

Applications may be requested by contacting KCA at either of the above addresses.

KALEDEN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION HAS GRANTS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT YOUR IDEA

Economic Development Update By Gail Scott, Economic Development Coordinator, RDOS - Okanagan Falls & Area “D” With hopefully most of the cold weather behind us, the Okanagan Falls Visitor Centre is gearing up with plans and activities so that visitors and residents can enjoy the best of what Okanagan Falls and Area “D” has to offer. Our friendly and inviting Okanagan Falls Visitor Centre will be officially open Friday, May 20th. Volunteers from last year have stepped forward once again and we thank you and appreciate you for this. We are still in need of a few more volunteers this year, as we expect this season to be busier than ever now that people are able to get out and feel more comfortable in doing so. If you are interested in joining our volunteer team, please email dmorrow@rdos.bc.ca or call 778515-5520 now, as we are starting to develop our high season scheduling. We have applied for three Canada Summer Jobs positions and plan to utilize these positions to support the work of the Visitor Centre and to create some new local ecology tour programing for the community. We also applied to Community Foundation / United Way for their Youth Initiative grant and if successful, it will be our first step forward in building out our downtown mural project. We want to have the youth get fully involved in talking with community residents and businesses about what their thoughts and support is for creating a planned mural program for Okanagan Falls. It is going to be about putting in place a plan first, then going after more dollars to start creating the selected images through murals in and around town. Something to keep your eye out for is the new artistically beautiful RDOS Parks Department and Community Services trail head sign kiosks that will be installed at the head of four of the RDOS local trails. The expected date of installation is towards the end of May. One of the kiosks is to be installed at the head of the Trestle Bridge KVR Trail head. The signage board will also include the RDOS Regional Cycling Map with road, mountain and touring (KVR) trails. I want to personally thank Mark Woods and his staff for making this possible. What a bonus for our community, visitors, guests, and local recreational enthusiasts. We are excited to welcome more than 350 Canadian Federation of “Volkssporting” members to our region between May 26-29. Fifty Volkswalkers will be tackling the KVR Trail starting here at the Visitor Centre in Okanagan Falls on May 26th. For those of you who do not know what Volkssporting is all about, it is one of the fastest growing internationally organized recreation programs that promotes healthy living through hiking and walking. To learn more about this event and about the benefits of Volkssporting, check out the https://walks.ca/cvf-fcv-2022-festival/ The Okanagan Falls Visitor Centre / Economic Development Office is donating a fabulous draw prize for one lucky walker. The prize will represent the flavour of our community - assorted wines, Skaha Bluffs t-shirt, hand carved walking stick, maps, brochures, etc. Should you wish to donate to this basket, please contact dmorrow@rdos.bc.ca. Also happening is the Meadowlark Festival from May 20-23. Three of the walks start at the Okanagan Falls Visitor Centre. Come out and explore the spectacular natural wonders of the Okanagan Similkameen. Tickets and information is available through meadowlarkfestival.ca or call 250-492-5275. More events are in the planning for this year and that turns into economic benefits for the community. Stay tuned! Our office is located at #1 - 5350 9th Avenue in Okanagan Falls. We are open Tuesday - Friday from 10-3. Stop by and say ‘hi’. Page 10 | May 2022 | SkahaMatters.com

Economic Development Office Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday ~ 10 am - 3 pm #1 - 5350 9th Avenue - Hwy 97, Okanagan Falls 778-515-5520

Okanagan Falls Visitor Info Centre Reopens for the Season Friday, May 20, 2022 #2 - 5350 9th Avenue - Hwy 97 Okanagan Falls 778-515-5520

Area “D” Service & Boundary Configuration Study Update Get Informed, Get Involved, Have Your Say! The purpose of this study is to assess the current state of governance and service delivery concerns in Area “D”, gauge interest among citizens in pursuing incorporation, and identify the preferred boundary configuration for any subsequent incorporation study. Boundary Options Survey Your input is needed! A survey will be launched in May to gather feedback regarding possible boundary configurations in the event that a future Incorporation Study is initiated. The feedback gathered will assist the Committee in determining a boundary for any subsequent Incorporation Study. Please note that the boundary ultimately recommended by the Study Committee will not necessarily reflect the same configurations as the options illustrated in the survey. This is your opportunity to share your feedback! The survey can be completed online at rdosregionalconnections.ca, or can be completed in hard copy (paper) and submitted to the RDOS offices in Okanagan Falls or Penticton. A hard copy is being mailed to all Area “D” residences with a Boundary Options Overview that provides additional background. Prior to completing the survey, you may want to review some of the background materials prepared as part of this study, all of which are available at rdosregionalconnections.ca, including: •

Boundary Considerations Insights Paper

•

Incorporation Study Process Insights Paper

•

Boundary Options Overview

•

Boundary Options Analysis

If an Incorporation Study is recommended and approved (as a second phase), properties included within the Incorporation Study Area boundary will be part of the subsequent study. If a referendum results from that second phase study, then residents within the Incorporation Study Area will be eligible to vote on whether to incorporate. Those who live or own property outside the Incorporation Study Area would not be included in any subsequent Incorporation Study, and would therefore not have the opportunity to vote in any future referendum on incorporation. Identifying a boundary for the Incorporation Study Area is therefore an important initial step. Share your thoughts through the survey! Have Questions? If you have questions that remain unanswered prior to filling out the survey, submit your questions to our FAQ on rdosregionalconnections.ca. Answers will be shared online.

Okanagan Falls Community Association Update

Community Open House Tuesday, May 17 ~ 6:30-8:30 pm

By Matt Taylor, President “Avery Farms” is coming to Okanagan Falls! The Avery Group is proceeding with construction of a ‘state of the art’ facility, providing 45,000 sqft of vegetable growing space. Expected to be operational in early 2023, this facility will provide the community with some new skilled labour positions. This is the first of a number of facilities anticipated at the Avery Industrial Park, which hopes to be selling land lots in early 2023.

Change is afoot! This graphic below and the list that follows oﬀers another view of the many developments planned for the community Okanagan Falls. Stay tuned!

In the Okanagan Falls School Gym Join the membership drive and hear about the following: 1. 2.

Business development updates, presently proposed and in various stages of preparation Ongoing processes / studies aﬀecting Okanagan Falls • OFID Conversion • Area “D” Service & Boundary Configuration Study

Community beautification initiatives • Flower planters at multiple locations around town • A plan for murals providing directional / attractive signage to key locations.

Community Foundation • How residents can make taxable donations benefiting the community for years to come?

Updates from the Director (on invitation)

Boundary Options ~ Area “D” residents are being consulted on potential boundary options in a survey launched in May, as a part of the RDOS Area “D” Service & Boundary Configuration Study. With more information available in a separate item, this is an opportunity for residents to consider and voice their opinion as to what communities might be included, if the province and RDOS proceed beyond the ongoing RDOS’ Services and Boundary Configuration Study, the next step being an Incorporation Study. All residents are encouraged to respond. Visit www.rdosregionalconnections.ca. Worthy of mention, this is a consultation and the proposed boundaries are flexible at this point. So, please use this opportunity to advise if you feel the boundary needs to be adjusted. Of the many factors that were identified and considered - at least 22 were analyzed - one of the most important is what residents want and are prepared to support. So, please complete the survey! If you have any questions or concerns, or would like to join the OFCA, please email okanaganfallscommunity@gmail.com.

Okanagan Falls Volunteer Fire Department By Colin Pickell

• • • • • • • • •

Our firehall was grateful to have a presentation from BC Wildfire Service this month in preparation for the upcoming wildfire season. We discussed a range of topics focused on how local fire departments like ours can effectively interact with BCWS on complex and fast-moving fires like last year’s Thomas Creek wildfire. They offered great insight into their operations, and how we can support each other Avery Industrial Park ~ One business to be operational early on interface fires (fires that have the potential to involve buildings 2023. 20 other building lots available for sale in 2023. and forest fuel or vegetation simultaneously). If you see a grass or wildfire, it’s important to give an accurate location and a good Belich’s AG Foods ~ Full service grocery opening soon! description of the fire to the 9-1-1 operator. This will help them Little Falls Foods ~ Pivot to specialty foods & coffee shop decide what services need to be sent. Also, a reminder that our Lemonade Lane ~ 41 townhouses southwest of school hall is not staffed, so please call 9-1-1, not our hall. Wildstone Construction Group ~ 30 townhouses opposite Open House at the Firehall on Sunday, June 5th ~ Hear Belich’s AG Foods on 9th Avenue or Highway 97 about FireSmart and Recruitment Information. Details to follow. Riverside Condos ~ 5 new condo units next to the Library Please join our Facebook page at “Okanagan Falls Volunteer Fire Liam First (Sun ’n’ Sand) ~ 48 unit condos in 2 buildings Department” for up-to-date information on road closures, incident 97 & Main Crossroads Office Building ~ 3 Wind Hair, Okanagan advisories, and upcoming events. Falls Physiotherapy & Lemonade Lane Sales Centre Last month we responded to: medical first response - 15; motor Main Street Development ~ Beside Kettle Valley Pizza vehicle accidents - 4; alarms 1; and minor fires - 5.

Changes To Twin Lake Boating Regulations By Glenda Stewart-Smith, LNID Chair Transport Canada has recently made changes to the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations (VORRs) under subsection 2(3) which limit the engine power of electric motors on waterways listed in Schedule 3 of the VORRs. Details can be found in the Regulations Amending the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations (SOR/2020-252), which was published on December 9, 2020 in the Canada Gazette, Part II. Subsection 2(3) now states, “No person shall operate a powerdriven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion that has an aggregate maximum power greater than 7.5 kW in any of the waters described in Schedule 3, except as indicated in that Schedule”. As the LNID has been designated the local authority for Twin Lake, we are required to post notices, signs and notify media about this change. See the poster below for your information. If you have any questions, you can contact Transport Canada directly through Breanne Muir, Boating Safety Oﬃcer, Oﬃce of Boating Safety, Transport Canada / Government of Canada at breanne.muir@tc.gc.ca or call 1-604-355-7453.

NOTICE: Electric Motor Size Restriction on Lower Twin Lake 7.5

MAX kW Transport Canada has informed the LNID that a recent amendment to regulations applies to Schedule 3 Waterways such as this lake. The amendment does not allow any “vessel driven by electrical propulsion with an aggregate maximum power of greater than 7.5 kW in any of the water described in Schedule 3” (of the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations). Please continue to protect the health and beauty of our lake by ensuring that your vessel is not powered by an oversized electrical motor or any gas powered motor. We also urge all those who use the lake to help us preserve this community treasure by following all the other rules which apply to this lake and its environment, including: • Do not litter or dump waste illegally. Use the garbage container provided or carry your garbage out with you. • No open fires. • Do not discharge any chemical or sewage into the lake. • Do not exceed daily catch limits. • Do not use illegal fishing gear or barbed hooks. • No overnight camping or late night parties. • Respect the rights of other visitors and residents of the lake community to enjoy the lake in peace and privacy. Should you notice someone using an oversized electric motor you may ask the user if they are aware of the new restrictions. Beyond that, the easiest way to report any violations of any of the above rules is by calling the RAPP 24 hour hotline. RAPP = Report All Poachers and Polluters. Call 1-877952-7277 to leave an anonymous message or fill our an online form by going to rapp.bc.ca. Let’s ensure that we leave a beautiful, healthy lake and ecosystem for future generations to love and enjoy. This notice was authorized and created by the board of the Lower Nipit Improvement District (LNID).

Golf, enjoy hot food and a beer at Thirsty Turtle Landing Bistro. Stay in our rental rooms & play 9 holes for $15!

111 St. Andrews Drive, Kaleden

standrewsbythelake.com

250.497.5648

Twin Lakes Fire Services Society

“Building Community Spirit”

By Richard Hellyer Saturday, May 7 will be Twin Lakes Community Day. You will see community groups out doing their thing. Plan ahead to take advantage of Twin Lakes first ever FireSmart Chipper Day. What exactly is the FireSmart chipper day? All community members have the opportunity to limb and trim their trees and shrubs and haul their clippings to the curb, where a chipper truck will come by and take your debris away! This is only happening for one day, so be prepared by letting us know you have some wood to be chipped. How do you prepare? 1. Review your FireSmart resource and decide what has to be limbed and trimmed to make you FireSmart! Visit https:// www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/public-safety-and-emergencyservices/wildfire-status/prevention/prevention-homecommunity/bcws_homeowner_firesmart_manual.pdf 2. Gather your clippings (up to 12” in diameter) and place them on the curb in front of your house, just like for garbage collection. 3. Contact Twin Lakes Fire Services Society by May 6 at 5 pm • Email TwinLakesFire@gmail.com • Phone 250-460-1369 • Visit our website at twinlakesfireservices.ca After all that hard work, join your community for a Free BBQ that will be held at the Twin Lakes Golf Course RV site at 12:15 -2 pm. You will be able to meet members from Twin Lakes Fire Services Society, Greater Twin Lakes Area Stewardship Society, Twin Lakes Social Group and the Lower Nipit Improvement District. Find out what is shaking in your community, as this is your opportunity to meet the people and ask questions! We hope to see you there.

The intention of this column is to share inspirational stories, or even a quick photo, to show that community spirit is alive and well.

Annual Lions Easter Egg Hunt

It’s been 25 years since the first Easter Egg Hunt, with two years missing due to Covid. The Okanagan Falls Lions Club considers the Easter Egg Hunt one of their best projects, and Lion Dave Wilding has chaired the Hunt from day one. Many thanks to the BC Lottery Corp, the Okanagan Falls Legion Branch #227, as well as other community oriented donors, who have made it one of the best things to do in Okanagan Falls on Easter Sunday. Many parents came to the Hunt as children with their parents and now are here with their children and grandparents. It was a spectacular day ... bright and sunny. It was realized and shared that the Easter Egg Hunt has never been rained out, maybe a few windy days, but no rain.

Heritage Hills / Lakeshore Highlands FireSmart Spring Chipping Day Saturday, May 14 By Bob Coombs, FireSmart Committee Chairperson Here’s another opportunity to work with your neighbours to clear up trees, branches, bushes, and undergrowth that could fuel wildfires in and around your property. A chipping truck and crew will be at locations in the community on Saturday, May 14 to help get rid of your natural, combustible material. There will be a map on the community notice boards identifying chipper locations. The main drop oﬀ point will be at the Vintage Boulevard entrance to the family park. FireSmart volunteers and RDOS staﬀ will be on hand at the park from 10 am to 2 pm to provide information on how to prepare your property ahead of this year’s wildfire season. Let’s become a FireSmart community.

The Okanagan Falls Lions Club members are looking forward to Music in the Park, the Dog Guide Walk on May 29, and Canada Day. Let’s take advantage of these opportunities to build on the quality and family oriented community we look forward to. For nominations in this “Building Community Spirit” column, please call 250-497-8188 or email to rdosrec@rdos.bc.ca.

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| Page 13

Sunlight And Health By Dr. Tamara Browne, ND Naturopathic Physician, Licensed and Registered by The BC Ministry of Health

& Chelation Centre

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Dr. Tamara Browne, Naturopathic Physician Unit 8B, 5350 Hwy 97, Okanagan Falls, BC

250-497-6681 www.drtamarabrowne.ca chelationokanagan exposed to the sun twice as long before burning. Suﬃcient levels of these oils caused a significant reduction in immune suppression from UV radiation in those who took fish oil for 3 months. Plus, in one study high levels of omega-3 fat intake, decreased risk of melanoma by 48%. Industrially processed “vegetable oils”, which are actually made from seeds (not vegetables), are high in omega-6 fatty acids which are pro-inflammatory and increase the risk of many chronic diseases. Safe fats and oils other than clean fish oil (taken cold only) are virgin coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, grass-fed butter, ghee, and animal fats. Coconut oil makes a wonderful skin softening and conditioning oil when applied to the skin, and can replace many chemically laden skin products. If you do need to be out in the sun during the middle of a hot summer day, cover up with clothing and a hat to avoid burning, and if required apply a mineral sun screen. DE

MEA

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Natural Family Health Clinic

the

HELP

Science and common sense tell us that exposure to some sunshine is very good for our health. There are nuances to this statement, but overall, the science supports this idea wholeheartedly. Moderate sunshine exposure reduces the risk of death from all causes. It is well established that overall mortality increases in the winter months and decreases in the summer months. Further, diabetics have better blood sugar control in the summer. A Swedish study showed that vacations to the sun during the winter months have a protective effect, and aid in preventing chronic diseases and death. Another study showed that those who avoid the sun altogether, are at a much higher risk of all cause mortality, than those who receive sun exposure regularly. This effect was quite significant, equal in significance, in fact, to habitual smoking. Everyone is aware that skin cancer is associated with sun exposure in a dose dependent manner (the more sun, the more risk of skin cancer). However, this needs to be balanced with the benefits of sun exposure. For instance, UV light exposure from the sun is also associated with a reduced risk of about 14 other types of cancer, as well as heart disease and diabetes. When it comes to skin cancer, a Danish study concluded that the mortality rate from those with melanoma was equal to that of the rest of the population, and surprisingly, those with non-melanoma skin cancer lived longer than their cancer-free cohorts. How can this be? Perhaps it indicates that even though sun exposure increases one’s risk of skin cancer, this is superseded with an overall lowered risk of mortality and morbidity. UVA rays from the sun release nitric oxide in the skin which has many health benefits, including improving longevity. UVB rays increase Vitamin D production in the skin. This improves bone and immune health, and also decreases overall risk of death. It appears that the main benefit from sun exposure comes from the nitric oxide (NO) production. Nitric oxide has many important biological functions. For instance, it lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and allowing more blood to flow to the heart and other organs and tissues. This may, at least partially, explain why more heart attacks occur in the winter. NO also helps improve the nervous system in several ways. When the sun is lower in the sky, there is an increased ratio of UVA to UVB rays due to the filtering effect of the atmosphere of the UVB rays. Therefore, exposing the skin to the sun early and late in the day is likely better for your health than exposing your skin during the middle of the day. Using the length of your shadow can help determine the best time of day to be out in the sun. A shadow the length of your body is a good surrogate marker of the best time of day to be outside in the sun. Always avoid burning the skin, because not only is it painful, but the skin damage can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. As some people have experienced, sun exposure can stimulate cold sore occurrences. This appears to be due to a specific immune suppression effect, which is the same mechanism by which skin cancer rates are increased. Both of these effects can be modulated with improving omega-3 to omega-6 ratios in the body. Omega-3 found in fish oil (high in DHA/EPA fatty acids) decreases burning of skin by about ½, meaning the skin can be

Need A Ride? If you live in the Kaleden Area and need a ride, please call 250-460-3387.

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Creative Wellness Solutions

By Dee-anne Jalava, Seniors Wellness Practitioner

Providing a unique combination of Chair Massage & Wellness Coaching

Massage therapy can’t cure MS or change the course of the disease. But for some people with MS, massage therapy can be helpful in easing certain symptoms and improving overall quality of life. MS is diﬀerent for each person who has it. The potential benefits of massage therapy will also vary from person to person.

The Grandparents Scam is another scam that has targeted several Okanagan residents of late. In the Grandparents Scam, the fraudster will contact a person via phone claiming to be their grandson or granddaughter. The conversation goes something like this, “Hi Grandma. Is that you Sarah? Yes, it is me Sarah. I am in trouble and I need your help, AND PLEASE DON’T TELL MOM OR DAD. I am in jail and need bail money. Can you send money via Western Union. I will let you talk to my lawyer and he will give you the details.” The big indicator here is don’t tell mom or dad! Most likely if you did call mom or dad, you would find your granddaughter is at home or not anywhere near the location that the caller is claiming to be. Like most scams there are several diﬀerent variations in regards to the emergency such as they have been in an accident and need money to pay for damages, or they are stranded and need money to buy airline tickets. Any sob story that will get you to send money will be used. Another indicator that this is a scam is that they will ask you to send money via Western Union or another money transfer and not directly to them. Today, it is common and easy to simply e-transfer into someone’s account, such as directly into your grandson’s or granddaughter’s account. This won’t benefit the fraudster and they don’t want it traced, so they have you send it via Western Union or send it to a fictitious lawyer or mechanic or body shop. Often victims of this scam will say that they believed the caller, as the caller knew their granddaughter’s or grandson’s name. But, often this is because, like in the above example, you unknowingly gave it to them. Sometimes the fraudsters may even know your grandson or granddaughter, so they have details about them. To protect yourself, don’t be pressed by the urgency of the request by the caller. Do your due diligence, which should include calling the parents or telling the caller that you cannot send money until you speak with the parents. If dealing with the payment of bail or any court related matters, its best to deal directly with the court.

Call Dee-anne ~ 250-497-5974 In my monthly articles, I try to bring www.CreativeWellnessSolutions.com attention to how massage can help people in many different areas. Massage can be from pain relief, the social interaction involved with massage, be very beneficial to people with many or a combination of both. different diseases and conditions. A small 2013 study of people with MS indicated that massage This month, I’d like to talk about how therapy could be more effective than exercise therapy in reducing massage can help people with Multiple pain. And, combining massage therapy with exercise therapy may Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic disease be even more helpful. [healthline.com] affecting the central nervous system Creative Wellness Solutions provides a convenient massage with (the brain and spinal cord). MS occurs when the immune system innumerable benefits on a comfortable massage chair. You do not attacks nerve fibers and myelin sheathing (a fatty substance which need to climb onto a table or remove clothing and no oils are used. surrounds/insulates healthy nerve fibers) in the brain and spinal You can choose from a head and face, upper body, or legs and cord. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, with feet massage, or any combination. an estimated 90,000 Canadians living with We are a mobile service, so are able to come to you in your home the disease. On average, 12 Canadians are ($50 for a 30 minute appointment) or you can visit us at one of diagnosed with MS everyday. World MS Day the locations that we visit weekly. Please call Dee-anne at 250is on May 30th. 497-5974 to arrange an appointment or to discuss The Grease Some people seek massage therapy to reduce stress and anxiety. Cream; which is an amazing, all-natural, cannabis infused pain Others may want to ease pain or aid recovery from an illness or management alternative that actually works. Be sure to check injury. You might want massage therapy just to loosen up and out our website at www.CreativeWellnessSolutions.com for more escape the pressures of the day. information on The Grease Cream and where you can find more People with MS might seek massage therapy for the same reasons. information about our services, as well as to read any past articles During a massage, the therapist manually manipulates your soft you may have missed. tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, and connective tissue. This can relax tense muscles, improve circulation, and help you feel less stressed. While it doesn’t treat the disease, massage RCMP Community Report therapy might be able to help with some of your MS symptoms. Grandparents Scam

Some MS symptoms that might improve with massage are: spasticity, pain, fatigue, poor circulation, stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help prevent pressure sores, boost your mood, and improve physical and social functioning. In 2016, a small study found that massage therapy was safe and beneficial in managing pain and fatigue in people with MS. Participants were given massage therapy once a week for six weeks. The study authors said that decreasing pain and fatigue may help to improve quality of life. Another small study published in 2014 concluded that massage was safe and may help people with MS manage the stress of their symptoms. Participants reported that they felt an improvement in their overall well-being due to massage. The authors noted that this benefit could

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250-497-8801

Rick Dellebuur, South Okanagan Similkameen RCMP Community Police Direct: 250-490-2374 // Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477 or sostips.ca

Free Wireless Internet!

www.orl.bc.ca

Kaleden Branch:

101 Linden Avenue - 250-497-8066 Tuesday 1 - 5 pm / Thursday 1 - 8 pm / Friday 1 - 5 pm

The Kaleden Library received over 116 entries for the “Guess How Many Candies are in the Jar? The lucky winner was Elizabeth, with her guess of 74. She loved the cute little green 2022 Bunny to go with all the chocolate eggs. Congratulations to Bea, our winner of the “I LOVE SPRING” colouring contest! She received a chocolate bunny to nibble on, while building her LEGO bunny with her brothers. Preschool Storytime is continuing into the month of May, starting at 10 am on Tuesday mornings at the Kaleden Library. For more information, please contact Glenda at 250-497-8066, or email kaleden@orl.bc.ca. Our library staﬀ can help you ﬁnd your next favorite book, movie, or TV show. All you need to do is fill out our form and we will email you a list of suggestions. Get started today at www.orl. bc.ca/read-listen-watch/what-to-enjoy-next. Happy Mother’s Day! Thank you to all the parents and caregivers who support our Storytime program. I love listening to your children’s stories! Submitted by Glenda Livolsi, Kaleden Community Librarian

OK Falls Branch:

101 - 850 Railway Lane - 250-497-5886 Tuesday 10 am - 6 pm / Wednesday 10 am - 4 pm Friday 10 am - 5 pm / Saturday 10 am - 2 pm

Is your garden ready for planting? Do you need some ideas? Come and check out our garden display! Book Club is scheduled for Wednesday, May 18 at 1 pm. This month’s discussion is Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty. Our book club meets once a month. If you would like to join us, please call the library for more information. Drop-In Family LEGO/KEVA plank building is scheduled for Saturday, May 14 during open hours. Come join us for this unstructured play time with your child. For more information please contact the library. All children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Creative Colouring for Children and Adults is scheduled for Saturday, May 28 during open hours. Please join us for this calming, creative pass-time. All materials supplied. We have many colouring sheets to choose from! All children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. For more information please contact the library. Would you like to join an adult Creative Craft Circle? This will be oﬀered on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. May 11 and May 25 from 1-3 pm. Please join us and create with likeminded individuals. Thank you to our Friends of the Library for hosting our first book sale and basket raﬄe! Would you be interested in donating a little time to help raise funds for children’s programs? Please contact the library for more information. Online Events ~ Join in for these online programs for Adults and Seniors no matter where you live! Book Clubs, Virtual Film Club, Workshops & Classes, & Community Discussions. Register online and provide your email address to get the Microsoft Teams link information.

On Left ~ Elizabeth - Winner of the Guess How Many Candies are in the Jar? On Right ~ Bea - Winner of the Spring Coloring Contest!

Interiors

Exteriors

~ Painting Plus ~ Call Dave Anderson for: Estimates & References 250-490-5380 or anderson6465@gmail.com Quality Workmanship

Professional Service

Family History Forum ~ Register Online - Fourth Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8 pm. Join us for monthly topics hosted virtually by the Kelowna & District Genealogical Society! They will cover a variety of fascinating topics related to family history. Additional information will be sent after you register. Presented by the Downtown Kelowna Library. Submitted by Lynn Warﬁeld, Okanagan Falls Community Librarian

School District No. 53 Board Report By Janice Stevens, SD53 School Trustee Happy Spring! Our April Board of Education meeting is on April 27, which is too late for any May updates at press time. So, in 1. anticipation of the upcoming summer holiday, I am sharing some great educational resources from the Ministry of Education website 2. at www.openschool.bc.ca/keeplearning/. Links are available for: 3.

April Highlights From Okanagan Falls Elementary School By Principal Karen Sinclair Gymnastics Equipment ~ Climbing high and having fun! Tug o’ War Fun ~ Student vs Teacher Spring is Here ~ Students taking care of our front flowerbed

Early Learning and Primary Years 4. Fun at our annual Easter Egg Hunt ~ Thank you Division Circle Round ~ Podcasts of sound and music-rich folktales from 5. Ethos Parkour ~ Challenging our Falcons! around the world for kids. 6. Congratulations Legion Contest Winners! Come Read with Me ~ videos for parents/caregivers with tips to keep home reading a fun and positive experience. The Learning Circle ~ Hands-on, nature-based activities to encourage learning about First Nations in Canada. Keeping Kids Active During the Pandemic ~ First Nations Health Authority’s list of fun activities to keep young children active and engaged while at home. POPEY Home Learning Resources ~ Tips and activities to support primary learning at home. When I Go to Kindergarten ~ Help prepare your child for kindergarten by working through this booklet together. Play ~ Ideas and activities for children and caregivers to play and learn together. RBCM@home ~ A virtual playdate with museum staff, working from home, sharing activities and information. Knowledge Kids ~ Videos and games for children aged 2-8. Free and commercial free, no email required. GoNoodle ~ Movement and mindfulness videos created by child development experts. ReadyRosie, Healthy at Home ~ Free toolkit of short videos for infant to K children and their caregivers. Prodigy Math ~ An engaging math platform that uses a variety of interactive features and games to develop students’ math proficiency. 5 Minute Field Trips ~ Learn about nature in your own backyard. Hand-in-Hand ~ Nature education program posts of daily activities for early learners. Science World, Backyard Biodiversity ~ Seven activities to do in your backyard. eBooks Kids ~ Several eBooks offered in French, Spanish and English. Includes riddles and games to engage learning. Storyline Online ~ Videos of storybooks being read aloud. Don’t forget to review us on TripAdvisor & Facebook! Caring for Each Other ~ Sesame Street is offering free games, videos and eBooks. Now Open 8-2 Tuesday-Saturday YGym ~ Physical activity videos for children 5-9, led by YMCA 5121 9th Avenue, Okanagan Falls Any inquiries, email kjcoffeebar@gmail.com 778.515.6502 instructors. Intermediate Years Circle Round ~ Podcasts of sound and music-rich folktales from around the world for kids. Crash Course Kids ~ Science videos on a variety of topics. Prodigy Math ~ An engaging math platform that uses a variety of interactive features and games to develop students’ math proficiency. 5 Minute Field Trips ~ Learn about nature in your own backyard. Science World, Backyard Biodiversity ~ Seven activities to do in your backyard. YGym ~ Physical activity videos led by YMCA instructors. For more information, feel free to contact Janice Stevens, School Trustee for SD53, at 250-307-4245 or jstevens@sd53.bc.ca.

Okanagan Falls PAC Update By Kandis Lipsett, PAC Chair Spring is almost here! The April PAC meeting was held on April 21 at 6:30 pm by way of dessert social. A huge fundraiser through a 50/50 raﬄe is being held to fundraise for the outdoor learning campaign initiative to create more natural play structures and enhance the outdoor learning structure by equipping it with stand up desks. Winnings from the 50/50 could be as much as $10,000 and tickets are $5 each. Please contact Alisha Hardy at 250-4623272 or Robyn Verge at 250-219-3017 for tickets. The draw date will be Friday, May 20 at 6 pm at the Okanagan Falls Elementary School Outdoor Structure. Know your limit, play within it! Licence #132846. SkahaMatters.com | May 2022 | Page 17

School Trustee Report For SD67 By Kathy Pierre, School Trustee

Covid-19 Update ~ The Provincial Covid-19 Communicable Disease Guidelines for K-12 Settings have been updated to reflect changes to Provincial Health Authority orders. The update was eﬀective the first day after Spring Break to enable schools to finish the winter term with existing prevention measures in place. Some of the changes include the following: Schools returned to classroom and learning environment configurations and activities that best meet the learner needs and preferred educational approaches; School gatherings returned to 100% capacity after April 7, 2022; Schools returned to routine sign in/sign out practices; and, the decision to wear masks is a personal choice. Budget Advisory Committee met a few times in April ~ The Ministry of Education announced the preliminary Operating Grant for SD67 on March 18, 2022. On April 5, the Budget Advisory Committee met to discuss and consider the implications of the Preliminary Operating Grant Announcement, funding model changes, and any potential budget shortfalls or enhancements for the 2022-2023 budget. Unfortunately, there is an anticipated budget shortfall of just over $1.0 million expected. On April 14, 2022, the Budget Advisory Committee met to discuss strategies for cost savings. The Partner Groups were given an opportunity to do group presentations to provide input on ways to cut costs to balance the 2022-2023 budget. A common solution emphasized by all groups was the importance of right sizing the district to decrease cost pressure that arise from too many schools not operating at capacity due to declining enrolment. Over the next month, there will be ongoing work and adjustments by the management team to refine the budget with the intent of developing a balanced budget. The Board will give approval of the 2022-2023 Annual Budget Bylaw at the May 30, 2022, Regular Board Meeting. Please contact Kathy Pierre at kpierre@SD67.bc.ca, if you have any questions regarding this report. Board meetings are live streamed and can be accessed at www.sd67.bc.ca.

Central Ridge Veterinary Clinic Dr. Sylvia Tingson D.V.M. Open Mon - Fri 9-5 & Sat 9-12

Medicines

April Highlights From Kaleden Elementary School By Principal Diane Haddow The Kaleden Coyotes have been busy these past few weeks! • All students are taking Martial Arts classes with Mr. Robert Ng for the next six weeks. • The students enjoyed a school wide challenge of Saving Fred! Fred is a gummy worm who had capsized his boat and who needed help getting his life preserver on. The challenge was a critical and communication challenge for our Core Competencies that we are learning about. • Kaleden Elementary held their Ready Set Learn event on April 13th. Many thanks to Interior Health and community members for speaking to our families. • Cross Country Running has started and students in Gr 3-5 are training for two upcoming runs! One run will be held on May 11 at West Bench Elementary and the other will be held on May 26 here in Kaleden.

- Okanagan Falls

250.497.7808 Surgery

Vaccinations

Life Drawing Group Welcomes Local Artists By Kim Palmer, Executive Director

Did you know that there’s a collection of dedicated local artists who create and connect together weekly? The OSA coordinates a life drawing group every Wednesday evening. This group gathers to draw from a live model. There’s a $10 drop-in fee, which helps to cover the cost of the model, and no registration is required. Everyone brings their own supplies and is welcome to work in the medium of their choice. Each session starts with short poses, and then the group takes a break. The model then does 20-minute poses. At the end of the evening, participants lay their work out for others to see and discuss, if they choose to share. If you’re interested in joining the group, please email us at info@ osarts.ca and tell us about your art practice and experience. We look forward to welcoming new members!

Mrs.D‛s Playschool in Kaleden Morning & afternoon spaces available for 3-5 year olds. For more information, please call Grizela Dos Santos at 778.931.0070 or grizeladossantos@gmail.com

Skid Steer Fencing Flooring Roofing Dumping Welding

Providing creativity and connection for Penticton and surrounding communities

778-718-5757 or info@osarts.ca www.okanaganschoolofthearts.com

Call Jim Morcombe

101 5th Street, Kaleden

Kaleden Elementary PAC Update By Brad Nunes

Hello everyone. It is now the first of May, so you know what that means? We consider dipping our toes into the lake to start swimming! KPAC would like to remind all parents to please keep safe near the water. Always have a responsible adult (so like ... not me ... I guess?) watching kiddos near the water and making sure they understand the buddy system. Help keep an eye on each other and alert people if they are in danger ... from Sharks ... like SLMS or Great White or something. We’ve got a few things on the calendar. First oﬀ, we are doing a Tru Earth fundraiser. These eco-friendly products work great (we personally use the laundry strips) and they are super-duper good for the environment. It even ships right to your door. This is a great way to celebrate Earth Day! Use this link to order: http:// fundraising.tru.earth/kespac/ KES is once again able to host the amazing Kaleden Run! In the past, we have had hundreds of kids from all over the district bounding down the KVR Trail. And to fuel those munchkins, KPAC runs a concession. If you can spare some time on between 9:30 am and 12 noon on Thursday, May 26, we would welcome the help. No hot food, just simple drinks, chips, candy and freezies. Our penultimate meeting of the school year shall be held on Wednesday, May 11 at 7 pm in the KES library. Tamara assures me that there won’t be any “incidents” (like the last time) and that she was sure that the clown had their pyrotechnics’ licence. Lesson learned I guess. Thanks everyone for your amazing and ongoing support. Cheers!

Kaleden Bursary By Darlene Bailey

The Kaleden Bursary Committee is oﬀering several bursaries to Kaleden and area students (V0H 1K0 postal code) who are graduating from Grade 12 this academic year (2022) and pursuing further education. If anyone would like to sponsor a bursary or donate to the Kaleden Bursary Fund, and help our students, please contact myself, Darlene Bailey. Application for these bursaries can be made by submitting a letter or email and providing the following information: • Plans for further education (university, college, technical school) and type of education being pursued. • Where you graduated from high school and the school name. • How long you have lived in the Kaleden area (including Twin Lakes, White Lake Road and St. Andrews by the Lake) and did you attend Kaleden Elementary School. Mailing address must be in Kaleden area (V0H 1K0). • Any Kaleden community involvement. • Hobbies, interests and volunteer/work experience. • Include your mailing address, house number, phone number, cell number, Social Insurance Number, and email address. • If you are successful in being awarded a bursary, you have two years to claim it from the date awarded. • Upon being awarded a bursary, a thank you letter must be sent to the sponsor of your bursary. The bursary funds will not be released until the thank you letter is received by the sponsor. Applications must be received by July 1, 2022 and should be submitted to: Kaleden Bursary Committee, c/o Darlene Bailey, Box 239, Kaleden, BC V0H 1K0. Or, email to kaledenbursary@ shaw.ca or darlenebailey1@shaw.ca. For further information, please call 250-497-8140.

CELEBRATE IN THE HEART OF WINE COUNTRY

May 7 & 8

Okanagan Falls l Skaha Lake

www.theheartofwinecountry.ca

The Building Envelope ... It’s Keeps Us Warm And Dry

15th Annual Brilliant Moments and Youth Week 2022

By Randy Smith, Building Scientist

Submitted by the Penticton & District Community Arts Council

Buildings make up a large part of our lives. It is where we live, where we play, and where we work. Ensuring buildings are well designed, constructed, and maintained is important from a property value, life cycle, maintenance, and sustainability perspective. This column will hopefully be a forum for sound discussion on how best to build, how to weigh risk, what elements are important to keep an eye on, and how best to fix what is wrong. The building envelope is comprised of the components that separate the interior environment from the exterior. It controls the movement of light, heat, air, water, and sound. That is asking a lot. Walls, windows/doors, foundations, and roofs all play a role in this function. Understanding how these components work, the options/products/systems that are available, and how they all connect and function within the building envelope is key to long term performance and durability of a building. How many of us have seen a roof leak that won’t go away, window condensation when the furnace humidifier is turned oﬀ, overly complex construction details, excessive heating/cooling costs, mold growth discovered in a wall during a renovation, poor construction sequencing, landscaping that doesn’t seem to drain, or water leakage through a parkade wall or plaza deck. Sound building envelope construction is a balance between cost, design, and constructability. We live in the realm of “good - better - best”. The key is to know when “good” is good enough and when “best” is required. It is all about weighing the risk. Please feel free to forward your building envelope questions and/or concerns to jmlent2017@gmail.com for discussion and comment.

The Penticton & District Community Arts Council is excited to announce our upcoming exhibition and events for May! Current Exhibition ~ Runs from May 14 to June 25: 15th Annual Brilliant Moments group exhibition by CanwaxWest featuring encaustic paintings created with beeswax paint. Youth Week 2022 ~ In partnership with the Penticton Public Library and Foundry, join in some fun zine projects and comic creations for youth aged 12-24 on May 3, 6, and 7. Visit our website for more details! The Penticton Arts Council Galleries are located at 220 Manor Park Avenue in the Leir House Cultural Centre. Please visit our website at www.pentictonartscouncil.com for current gallery hours.

Exhibitions, artist studios, workshops, drop-ins, and more. Let's get creative!

pentictonartscouncil.com

250.492.7997

NEW Commercial / Industrial Space By Kelsey Robinson, Owner/Manager

We are very excited to share some big news with the community. We recently built a 2-bay commercial / industrial building, which will add more leasable options for economic development in the Okanagan Falls area. Easy Lock Self Storage and RV Super Centre saw the need for a unique type of commercial space that could fill the void for a multitude of needs. Our 2-bay commercial building has it’s own entrance off Oliver Ranch Road, equipped with the same security features and easy access already on site. There are cameras and lights throughout the facility, along with local security on patrol. This new commercial area will provide high visual exposure to traffic driving by for our already very successful wine industry in and around our location. Tenants will be able to place their business signage with ours, as well as on the new building. These 2 commercial tenants will have access 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through their separate gated entrance. Each commercial bay is 1100 sq ft with a 16 ft ceiling height, giving ample room for a small garage with hoist for example. These units are finished with heating and electrical in place on a cement floor with their own private bathroom attached. The business options for a space such as this are endless, i.e. carpenter, winery, brewery, manufacturer, etc. Perhaps, someone with a large RV or the trending “Tiny House” builder wanting to store it indoors throughout the winter and work on it, this would be the perfect location. We’re excited to offer this fantastic new space! To view these new commercial spaces, please visit Easy Lock Self Storage located at 1964 Oliver Ranch Road in Okanagan Falls. For more information, contact Kelsey, Dianne or Crystal at 250497-3279 or email to info@easylockselfstorage.com.

For All Your Storage & RV Needs ... Think EASY!

NEW Commercial/Industrial Space NOW AVAILABLE! Do you have a small business & need workspace? We have built a new 2-bay commercial building now available for lease. Contact us for details.

250.497.3279

Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-4:30 & Sat 10:00-3:30 1964 Oliver Ranch Road, Okanagan Falls

info@easylockselfstorage.com

www.easylockselfstorage.com

The Okanagan’s Only Fully Mobile Hearing Aid Clinic

Home visits and evening appointments available Free Hearing Tests

Hearing Aid Sales and Repairs

Hearing Aid Demos

Batteries

Accessories

Programming and follow up care

For an appointment, call 778-531-5213 Or email adam@sahearing.ca

Volunteer Spotlight

Follow Up On Director Obirek’s Articles On Local Governance

Pitch-In Canada in Kaleden & Okanagan Falls

Valhalla Window Cleaning Locally Owned & Operated for 25 years!

MEA

Kaleden Cards & Games

KALEDEN

HUB

250-460-3387

VISITS

HELP

Serving Okanagan Falls, Kaleden, St. Andrews, Twin Lakes, Heritage Hills & Penticton

GRO

Valhalla Window Cleaning 250.497.7810

Volunteers ... Making A Difference

If there is someone you would like to see honoured in this column, please call 250-497-8188 or email to rdosrec@rdos.bc.ca.

By Jeanne Lamb First, my complements to Director Obirek for providing detailed information as residents once again debate the pros and cons of incorporating Okanagan Falls. Provision of sewage treatment was historically a main incentive for a community to approve this change of status. Because the high water table demanded immediate attention, the province approved installation of a collection system in the 70s, resulting in the Falls being perhaps the only unincorporated community with a sewer system. It struck me during my terms as director in the 80s that there must have been an assumption that the Falls would incorporate, as Area “D” was so large and diverse compared to other rural areas. There was strong pressure for residential development, due to bordering Penticton to the east and west. Several municipalities including Penticton shared planning services with the RDOS, so debates with regard to exclusions from the ALR, protection of waterways and heritage sites took place at the RDOS table. Construction, expansion and equipping the region’s hospitals are also debated by the same directors as the Okanagan Similkameen Regional Hospital Board. As Director Obriek found, BC doesn’t require residence in a jurisdiction to qualify as a candidate, nor does the Municipal Act prevent different holding offices at the same time. He then questioned WHY? For me, growing up in Naramata meant Penticton was our service hub and half one’s school life. Nigel’s family moved from Oliver to the Falls in the 50s and he established the Skaha Marina in 1959. We settled in Kaleden in 1962 since I was teaching here. Connections to family and associates in all three communities, plus involvement in Tourism, Agriculture and service organizations made me aware of interdependencies among communities. After several years serving with City of Penticton councillors on the RDOS and regional hospital boards, I felt that my experience, knowledge of Municipal Act and belief in transparency through open and respectful debate qualified me for council. Voters agreed, electing me knowing I had one year left to serve as Area D Director. No conflicts of interest ensued in spite of dire predictions by some. I was re-elected for a second term topping the polls. After being appointed to the RDOS by City Council, I was elected Chair of the board. One of my main aims was to foster co-operation and awareness of the importance of rural areas to sustainability of our region. Sharing the cost of RDOS staff ensures consistent governance throughout the region, and a means of taxation for regional services in rural areas. Probably the best example of regional co-operation was the 911 Emergency System. Referendums had to succeed in every Municipality and Rural Area to proceed, a major undertaking. Providing such an essential service through the Regional District made sense to residents, in no way undermining the authority of municipalities. From what I have observed, our regional system has more potential to foster co-operation and long term planning for mutual benefit than county systems that do not include municipalities. In spite of my precedent, it doesn’t seem likely many candidates will be vying for multiple offices. Of more concern should be encouraging a higher percentage of voters to turn out for local elections. To contact this author directly, please email ejlamb89@gmail.com.

YE RA

Thank you to all the volunteers that participated in the Annual Pitch-In Canada events. We would like to give a big thank you to both schools in Kaleden and Okanagan Falls for all the garbage they collected. Thanks to Linda Dahl for organizing this event in Kaleden for close to a decade now, and thanks to Nancy Wigley for organizing in Okanagan Falls. Many hands make light work!

Thursdays 2-4 at Kaleden Church, $2 drop-in fee Masks recommended & vaccine passports required. Questions? Email tupholme@telus.net Everyone Welcome!

JOIN US FOR FREE TASTINGS MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND MAY 7 & 8 On the Sunday, enjoy our new spring releases on the patio as eight local artists paint en plein air overlooking the hollow. Reservations recommended.

Open Daily 11am - 5pm 250.497.6162 stagshollowwinery.com 2237 Sun Valley Way, Okanagan Falls NA T I O N A L T O P 1 % ROYAL LEPAGE CANADA

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10 Things You Need To Know About Travelling In 2022 By Vi Creasey Things are really looking up when it comes to travel. Borders are opening and Covid-19 restrictions are loosening globally. We still have a long way to go before things will be back to normal, so Reliable Travel has compiled a list of tips to help you ensure you have the best experience on your next trip. Read on and know that Reliable Travel has your back every step of the way. 1. Check restrictions and rules. Then check them again. Not only do you need to know the restrictions for the country that you’re travelling to, but you need to know your own country’s rules for boarding a plane and re-entering the country. These rules are changing quickly, and sometimes loosen and then get strict again. It’s a good idea to check before you book, and then periodically leading up to your travel date. When you book your travel with Reliable Travel, we will provide you with this information and give you instructions for crossing borders, as well as let you know if there are some elements in your trip that are not fully operative and suggest alternatives if needed. 2. Be kind, ﬂexible, and pack your patience. Not only are travel restrictions changing, but flight times and routes are also changing often right now, even after you’ve booked them. It’s important to understand this and go with the flow. If your flight has a big change that isn’t ideal, Reliable Travel will work with the airline to find the best possible outcome.

ReliableTravel.ca 250-488-9313

Vi Creasey

vicreasey@shaw.ca

Diane Chatfield BC Business Licence #48999

dchatfield@tpi.ca

Airlines, hotel staff, and tour operators are all short-staffed right now, so it’s important to have empathy and be kind if there are long wait times or if something needs to be fixed. Remember, everyone is doing their best, so please pack your patience. 3. Book well in advance. Everyone is so excited to travel again! There is a huge influx of bookings, which is causing prices to rise and spots to sell out quickly. You may normally like to book last minute, but right now it’s best to book well in advance to make sure that you can really get what you’re looking for. You may even get an early booking bonus! 4. Get insurance. If there’s anything we’ve learned from the pandemic, it’s that travel insurance is more important now than ever before. It’s very important to speak with a licensed insurance provider, which Reliable Travel is, to make sure that you’re covered for anything that may interrupt your travel plans. Protect your plans and your investment. 5. Check your passport right now. After all we’ve been through, you’re so excited to get out there and have an adventure. Please make sure that your passport is ready to go too! 6. Airports may have long wait times. Checking in, getting luggage, and going through customs and immigration can take longer than expected these days. To expedite the check-in process, make sure you’ve filled out any online forms, have your paperwork ready and have all liquids in the proper baggage. Reliable Travel can advise you of the paperwork needed and also provide you with the special bags for the liquids. 7. Not all planes have food service right now. Be prepared and have snacks to bring with you or buy food and drinks while in the airport. 8. Arrive early. We have always said that you should arrive three hours early for an international flight. This is more important than ever, as check-in times are longer because there may be less staff and the extra Covid-19 documentations. 9. Travel responsibly. As we return to globe-trotting, let’s do it in the best possible way. Book with companies that have responsible tourism practices, keep tourist dollars with the local people, and have good cleaning protocols in place (who wants to be sick on vacation anyway?). Don’t forget to mask up at the airport and on the plane! Currently, it’s still a requirement. 10. Use a travel advisor! You knew I’d say this. A travel advisor’s services are more valuable than ever right now. Reliable Travel will check entry requirements, be on hold with the airline for you, and make all of your arrangements. We’re so excited to see people travelling again, and we’ve got your back! When you’re thinking about booking your next trip, be sure to give us a call at Reliable Travel. We’re ready to take care of all your travel needs. SkahaMatters.com | May 2022 | Page 23

Safety For Cats And Birds By Anna Skurikhina, Stewardship Centre for British Columbia Keep cats safe at home to make your community safer for cats, birds, other wildlife, and people! Did you know that roaming cats kill up to 350 million birds every year in Canada alone? Unsupervised outdoor cats are a serious concern for animal welfare and wildlife conservation groups. When allowed to roam freely, outdoor cats have an increased risk of injury, death, unwanted pregnancy, and illness and negatively impact bats, reptiles, small mammals and birds. With cat overpopulation concerns and rapidly declining bird numbers, it is important to do our part in protecting cats and birds, supporting ecosystem health and biodiversity in the beautiful Okanagan valley. The Cats and Birds project, coordinated by the non-profit Stewardship Centre for BC, promotes responsible cat ownership and bird-friendly practices for protecting our feline companions and feathery friends. If you are a cat owner, you can protect your kitty by keeping them safe at home or by allowing supervised outdoor access: leash walking, cat patios (i.e., catios) or a catproof garden. It is best if your cat is spayed/neutered and has a permanent ID (tattoo or microchip), so they can be returned to you if accidentally lost. If you want to support local birds, May is the perfect time to start! Plant native shrubs, trees and flowers for birds. When given an option, choose perennial plants that provide food, shelter, and nesting habitat for migratory and overwintering birds. Remember to treat your windows with bird-friendly stickers to reduce birdwindow collisions. In Canada, it is estimated that between 16 and 42 million birds die from glass collisions each year. For more stewardship practices that help cats and birds, visit the Stewardship Centre for BC website with free resources and guides on how to protect pets and wildlife in your area. In addition to developing science-based guides and stewardship practices, the Stewardship Centre for BC launched a research project to count cats and birds in the South Okanagan. The primary investigator Olivia Wilson is studying free-roaming domestic cats to understand what habitats they prefer and how many cats are on the streets. Olivia is setting up trail cameras in diﬀerent habitats across Okanagan Falls, Oliver, and Osoyoos. In addition, Olivia also conducts early morning bird counts to study the abundance and diversity of birds in areas where she finds roaming cats. If you are interested in learning more or volunteering for the project, visit the Stewardship Centre for BC’s website. This is a great opportunity to learn about wildlife in your area and contribute to animal welfare and conservation science in the Okanagan valley. Learn more at stewardshipcentrebc.ca/cats-and-birds/ or contact us at coordinator@stewardshipcentrebc.ca.

Stone’s Throw Nursery Come and see us for all your Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, Fruit Trees and Ornamental Grasses. All at the Best Prices in the Okanagan!

OPEN 9 -4 ~ Friday - Sunday

2346 Sun Valley Way Okanagan Falls

250-497-5641

stonesthrownursery@shaw.ca

www.stonesthrownursery.com

CatMatch Meet Peaches

Peaches is a very special cat! He and his family were abandoned at a local winery, but luckily, especially for Peaches, all were rescued. Peaches is a beautiful ginger and white, with stunning deep amber coloured eyes! Born with a deformity in his spine, he walks a bit “crooked”. He gets around just fine at the present, but requires a quiet home. It is not known if he will have further health issues as he ages, so may need extra vet care in the future. Please contact AlleyCATS Alliance at www.alleycatsalliance.org.

Jardin Estate Jewelry & Antiques Recycling the Elegance of the Past 5221 Hwy 97 Okanagan Falls

250.497.6733

www.jardinantiques.com

Pond Supplies

Design & Consulting

Installations

Aquatic Plants & Fish

Open 10-5 Wednesday to Sunday or call 250.497.5658 for an appointment www.SkahaWaterGardens.com

The Invisible Universe By Tom Landecker

Light is just one of the kinds of electromagnetic radiation that fills the Universe. Light travels as waves, through empty space. Like waves on water, there are crests and troughs, but electromagnetic waves don’t need water, or air, or anything - they can travel through completely empty space. Radio waves are like light waves, but their wavelength, the distance between the crests, is much larger. Light waves are tiny: there are 2000 waves in a millimetre. Radio waves are much longer, anything from 1 millimetre to 1 kilometre. FM radio is carried on waves about 3 metres from crest to crest. AM radio travels as 300 metre waves. The waves in your microwave oven are 13 centimetres between crests. Between radio waves and light, we find infrared waves. The Earth is warmed by sunlight, and loses heat as infrared waves. Carbon dioxide, and other greenhouse gases, in the atmosphere act like a blanket, not letting the infrared waves out, keeping the heat in. As we humans produce more of these gases, we get global warming. Ultra-violet waves are ten times smaller than light waves. A little ultra-violet (UV) comes through the atmosphere, and causes sunburn. It’s a good thing that the atmosphere blocks UV light. If it didn’t, we would fry, and a lot of life on Earth would be harmed too. At about one thousandth the wavelength of light, we find X-rays. X-rays go through solid objects, and through the not-so-solid human body. That’s why they’re good for medical imaging: the doctor can see what’s inside. One thousand times smaller yet are gamma rays. They are generated by nuclear processes. There is a powerful flash of gamma rays when a nuclear bomb explodes. We certainly do not want to be bathed in X-rays and gamma rays, and it’s a good thing that the atmosphere shields us from them. Astronomers have built telescopes for all these kinds of electromagnetic radiation. Light-gathering telescopes and radio telescopes can be built down here, on Earth’s surface, but infrared, ultraviolet, X-ray and gamma-ray telescope all have to be in orbit, above the atmosphere. Why aren’t light-gathering telescopes good enough? The answer is simple: telescopes using diﬀerent kinds of electromagnetic waves “see” diﬀerent things (where “see” is obviously not exactly what they do). Optical telescopes gather light, which comes mostly from stars. Radio telescopes collect signals generated in the space between the stars (a space that is nearly, but not quite, empty). Infrared telescopes are sensitive to cool things, such as stars that are on their way to becoming stars, but don’t emit light yet. X-ray and gamma-ray telescopes are sensitive to things that are extremely hot, and to very energetic events and very distant explosions. Here are a few helpful website addresses: • www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/solutions/facilities/drao.html • www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/publications/nrc_pubs/tapping/ • https://chime-experiment.ca The Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory is operated by the National Research Council Canada and is located at 717 White Lake Road in Kaleden. For more information, please call 250-497-2300.

When was the last time you opened your mailbox and found that someone cared enough to send you a greeting card? How did receiving that card make you feel? We've lost that human connection. It’s so easy to send an email, a text, or comment on Facebook when your friend has posted something cute and/or funny. Send Out Cards (SOC) combines the heart-felt connection people love with the convenience of the Internet. If you'd like to find out more, or have me send you a card so you can check them out, contact Heather Jackson at 250-488-6464 or heatherelaine1962@gmail.com. Check out Send Out Cards for yourself at www.SendOutCards.com/u/heatherjackson Find out how easy it is to send someone a free card at www.SendOutCards.com/u/heatherjackson/send

LIFE IS ALWAYS CHANGING Respectful semi-retired couple looking for long term, larger home rental in Skaha area. Home and yard upkeep as if it were our own. 250-497-8065

VENABLESTHEATRE.CA

South Okanagan Similkameen Volunteer Centre Update By Michael Magnusson, General Manager National Volunteer Week - April 24-30 ~ Every year in April, National Volunteer Week is a time to thank and celebrate Canada’s 24 million volunteers. This year’s theme was “Empathy in Action”, because it affirms the strong connection between volunteerism and empathy. This profoundly human connection is at the heart of healthier individuals and stronger communities. Empathy is a quality that can help people relate to others and build awareness around different experiences. It connects people in ideas and actions and helps create bonds forged in common goals and aspirations. Volunteering can help us develop empathy, to see the world through the eyes of others. It can connect people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, expanding our views. It can build our capacity to work collectively and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive society. From coast to coast to coast in formal and informal settings, volunteers create caring, collaborative, and compassionate communities. Thank You to All of the South Okanagan Similkameen’s Volunteers ~ With another National Volunteer Week now in the books, we want to first and foremost thank all of our many volunteers. On April 30, Total Restoration presented “Volunteers Matter Appreciation Event” hosted by SOS Volunteer Centre in Gyro Park. Volunteers were invited to enjoy a complimentary breakfast in Penticton’s Gyro Park, along with other activities to make it a memorable morning. None of it would have been possible without some amazing sponsors including Travel Penticton, Betts Electric, Omland Heal, Elevation Woodworking, the City of Penticton, IGA Penticton, Blenz Coffee, and others. Great Variety in Current Volunteer Opportunities ~ The decrease in restrictions has resulted in an increase in opportunities, and because of that, we have a wide variety of options available for our current volunteers, as well as those thinking of about it. For one to three day events, we have Ribfest, Jazz Festival, Penti-con. If you’re interested in something more long-term, perhaps volunteering at the Soupateria, Red Cross, Salvation Army, or Critteraid could be your way of giving back. And, a great way to make a difference in someone’s life is to look at our opportunities involving seniors, whether it’s driving them to important appointments, or simply calling or visiting someone to give them human connection. With almost two dozen current opportunities and more on the horizon, we encourage you to visit our website by going to www. volunteercentre.info/opportunities and checking out if any would fit your interests and lifestyle. Save the Date - May 25 ~ Join us on Wednesday, May 25 for our monthly volunteer gathering in-person. Whether you are already volunteer or want to hear stories from others, as well as the current opportunities, we would love to see you! Check out our website or social media channels for the time and place.

Kaleden Museum ~ A History Tid Bit By Meredith King The next series of articles will include the histories of some of the founding families who arrived in the decades starting in the 1920s. These are recorded from the memories of the descendants of these families. They are written up by me and I take responsibility for any errors. The run-on sentences are also all mine, though the tendency is undoubtedly inherited.

The MacKenzie Children Mary, the eldest, after graduation from Pen High, attended Western Pentecostal Bible School in North Van. There she met her husband, Don Moore and they married in 1958 and had two boys, Richard in 1959 and Robert in 1961. Don was ordained as a Pastor and served in two churches and then in 1967 he and Mary developed a tent ministry called Home Front Evangelism. They travelled throughout BC, as well as many countries in South America and Europe. In 1979, they purchased a large parcel of land in Langley and developed a permanent building for their continuing ministry. Don passed away in 1994 at only 56 and Mary and son Robert stepped in and continue the work to this day. After graduation from Pen High, Jean married local boy, Glen Williams, on July 16, 1954. Glen worked for Shell Canada in Penticton, Calgary and Edmonton. In Calgary, their two children were born, Dean in 1958 and Denyse in 1962. In the mid 60s, they moved to Surrey where Glen and his best friend Len Egley purchased a Shell Station, where Glen looked after the front end and Len was the mechanic. In 1976, they sold the station and Glen became an instructor at Quantlin College in Surrey, developing a course in parts management and inventory. Jean became a hair dresser and continued doing hair until she retired in the late 80s. Glen passed away in 2016 and Jean moved into a Senior’s Home in Surrey not far from her children and grandchildren. While still in high school, Grace fell in love with a local lad, Sheryl Beeman Smith, (more commonly known as Rusty), from Trout Creek. When Rusty moved to the lower mainland to train as a Psych Nurse at Riverview, Grace moved there to be near him. They were married in 1956 and moved to Port Coquitlam while Rusty finished his training. He took a full time position with Riverview upon graduation and remained with the facility until his retirement in 1990. They had 4 children, Randy born in 1957, Bryan in 1961, Traci in 1968 and Darren in 1969. The family remained in Port Coquitlam for all those years. Shortly after retirement they moved to West Kelowna and then in 2013 they moved to Penticton and made Kaleden Church their home church. For Grace, it was a true homecoming. Rusty passed away in 2019 and in September 2021, Grace moved to Surrey to live with her daughter. The 3 girls, born so close together, all married within 4 years of each other in the 1950s, continued throughout their lives to be active in the work of the church and spent most of their married lives in the lower mainland. It is no wonder that when Gordon passed away in 1984, Annie chose to sell her home and move down south to be close to her extended family Join us each month for more ramblings on the intricacies of Kaleden life. To donate an item to the Kaleden Museum, please contact Meredith at 250-497-6995. DE

MEA

250-460-3387

Need Medical Equipment?

YE RA

The HUB has a collection of used medical equipment ranging from large items such as a scooter, lift chair, wheelchair, etc. to bath and shower chairs, raised toilet seats, hoists, pillows, crutches and more. If you are looking for this type of equipment for the long or short term, please call the HUB. P

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Page 26 | May 2022 | SkahaMatters.com

KALEDEN

HUB

HELP

VISITS

Kaleden Seniors Committee Update By Eryn Wiedner, KSC Coordinator We had a busy start to spring enjoying Music Bingo on the first day of the month provided by Okey Dokey Entertainment. It was a great way to spend an afternoon with lots of laughs, great company, delicious snacks and awesome prizes!

2022

We finished oﬀ the month with an informative Backyard Chicken presentation with special thanks to Doreen Olson. Doreen shared what there is to know about successfully raising your own flock of laying hens. Thank you, Doreen! Barn quilting was a great success and wrapped up this month and as you can see from the photos below, the group created some beautiful pieces of art. Keep your eyes out when you’re out and about in Kaleden, as you’re likely to see some of these on display.

Our next event is a “Walk & Talk” along the KVR on Friday, May 13th with local nature experts. Please see our poster to the right for all of the details and join us to learn about nature right here in our backyard. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events. You can always reach the KSC at kaledenseniors@gmail.com. Have a wonderful month of May! Relax ... Rejuvenate ... Heal

250.497.8806

Do you need to detox? Aqua chi foot detox is easy and effective. Call for an appointment today! Celebrating 40 Years of Service!

Jaynie Molloy BSc. Hon. CH. 110 Linden Avenue, Kaleden

SOAP THEATRE: When the Wind Blows by Raymond Briggs CRIMSON TINE THEATRE: Above and Beyond by Robert Scott THEATRE KELOWNA: Wit by Margaret Edson WORKSHOP PLAY: Gift From the Sea by Cara Nunn SHUSWAP THEATRE: The Gravitational Pull of Bernice Trimble by Beth Graham POWERHOUSE THEATRE: Ben Hur by Patrick Barlow

OK Falls Heritage & Museum Society

Okanagan Falls Seniors Activity Society

By Marla Wilson

By Donna Taylor

We have finally reached spring! The tulips and daﬀodils are blooming and the Quince bush is aflame with red blossoms. Nights are still a little cool, but that sun sure feels nice during the day! We would like to thank Millar Tree Care for removing the large tree limbs that were hanging over the driveway behind the Thrift Shop. He is very good and did an excellent job for us. The Society is continuing to fundraise for the Kenny McLean room. The Kenny McLean display is located in the old log building that has been on the site since 1994. The log building needs some extra care to keep it in good condition, so that is what the fundraising is all about. There will be a staﬀ gathering for our dear Noreen Fowler in May.

Reminder: Annual memberships are now due and available from any board member.

Did’ja Know? According to the minutes of the organization that are in the Heritage oﬃce, “the Okanagan Falls Irrigation District was incorporated on August 30, 1934. The first general meeting was held in the Women’s Institute Community Hall on September 17, 1934. During the following winter months, nothing was done until the Annual General Meeting on April 15, 1935. Major Fraser had resigned as trustee, and Mr. G. Hawthorn’s term ended with the General Meeting. Thomas Worth was acclaimed chairman and conducted the business meeting. Mr. W. Edge was elected by ballot as trustee for the ensuing three years, and Mr. C. O Mallory for one year. Later in the meeting, Mr. W. Edge was elected chairman and Mr. T. Worth was chosen as secretary.” This was the beginning of what has grown to be a very important responsibility for the town of Okanagan Falls. There is a story that is told by Woman’s Institute members. Back, many years before the Irrigation District was formed, in the original town plan, two “green spaces” were set aside as parks for the citizens of the town. One space was near the stockyards and the other on Main Street. The town planners gave the space on Main Street to the Stockmen’s Association, and the other space to the Women’s Institute. The two organizations looked it over and decided to trade places, giving the Stockmen’s Association the green space near the stock yards, and the Women’s Institute the space on Main Street. It wasn’t until 1967 that the Irrigation District played a very important role. The Women’s Institute wanted to call their park Centennial Park, but needed the backing of an organization that consisted of a community elected board of members. Since there was no mayor and counsel, the only such board in town was the Irrigation District. The request to name the park Centennial Park needed to be sent to Ottawa by the board. The members of the board wrote to Ottawa and informed them that they wanted the park named Centennial Park to commemorate the 100th year of Canada. So, that is just what happened. The Irrigation District Executive Board met the requirements of Ottawa, and so the name “Centennial Park” was given to the park. It is this kind of support that the Irrigation District has shown throughout their many years of serving the community. We have fresh clean water and our sewer system is top of the line. A bequest was made by Isabel Hester to the Irrigation District, for the purpose of constructing the band shell floor. It was built in the 1990’s. Then in 2011, the Women’s Institute began fundraising to build the Band Shell. In 2015, the financial goal had been reached and the contract to build the structure was set. All this happened under the watchful eye of the Irrigation District. The first summer of Music in the Park was 2016. At every community music event, Centennial Park is pristine! Thanks to the Irrigation District and their hard-working crew. Special thanks to Eleanor Walker for her help with this history. Page 28 | May 2022 | SkahaMatters.com

The Senior Centre is open with an almost full calendar. We are hoping to see more of our old and new members coming out for activities soon. We follow all Covid safety procedures as laid out by Dr. Henry. Thank you for supporting our Flea Market and making it a successful and fun event. May’s Pancake Breakfast is partly sponsored by Little Falls Foods. Remember that Carpet Bowling will be starting in the fall. We are looking for people to join our activities and run our exercise program or we are happy for other suggestions. Activities in May 2022 General Meeting ~ Monday, May 2 at 1 pm Canasta ~ Mondays at 10 am Tuesday Bingo ~ Tuesdays - May 4, 11 & 18 at 1 pm Evening Pool ~ Tuesdays at 5 pm Mexican Train ~ Wednesdays at 1 pm Scrabble ~ Thursdays at 10 am Bridge ~ Thursdays at 1 pm Cribbage ~ Thursdays at 7 pm Pancake Breakfast ~ Saturday, May 7 from 8-10 am Drop-in Bingo ~ Saturday, May 21 from 1-4 pm Music & Coﬀee ~ TBA when starting back up Potluck Dinner ~ Cancelled for the time being Booking Agent ~ Heather at 250-497-1171 Bridge ~ Marg at 250-497-5702 Music Group ~ Malcolm at 250-497-6675 Flea Market ~ Edna at 250-460-0730 Mexican Train ~ Lana at 250-497-7389

Are you over 50? Just $20/yr to join! Enjoy activities. Meet new people. Get out and have FUN! Become a member of the OK Falls Seniors Society! For more information, call Grethe at 250.497.5669.

Nunes ~ Pottinger Funeral Service and Crematorium 250-498-0167

info4@nunes-pottinger.com JOHN NUNES

www.nunes-pottinger.com 5855 Hemlock Street, PO Box 788, Oliver V0H 1T0

DARYN POTTINGER

LOCKE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD. The South Okanagan’s preferred Property Manager for over 40 years! OFFICE 250-492-0346

FAX 250-492-6673

528 MAIN ST. PENTICTON, BC V2A 5C7 www.lockeproperties.ca

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #227 By Beverly van Uden Hours ~ We are open Tuesday through Saturday from 2 pm and Sundays from 12 Noon. We are closed on Mondays. May Activities •

Meat Draw ~ Fridays at 5 pm, Saturdays at 4 pm with food available. Remember, any profits from the Meat Draw goes to charities. Come on out to the Legion and the Meat Draw, so we can support the community.

•

Car Show ~ It’s time to dust, wash and tune up your pride and joy! May 11 is our first Wednesday Night. Cars start rolling in at 4 pm. Come into the Legion for a cool one, burgers, fries, onion rings, smokies, and chilli cheese fries will be on the menu. It’s going to be a great year!

•

Pancake Breakfast ~ Sunday, May 15 from 8-11 am. Pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs, sausage, French toast, coﬀee & juice for $8 per adult and $4 per child 12 & under.

•

General Meeting ~ Every third Tuesday of the month. Join us on Tuesday, May 17 at 7 pm.

Recycling Donations ~ If you have cans, bottles, or water bottles, and now milk or almond milk containers, please call or text Bev at 250-809-5537. Volunteers Needed! Please call the Legion at 250-497-8338. Become A Member Today ~ You don’t have to be a veteran to support a veteran. Any Canadian or citizen alliance nations 18 years of age and older is welcome to join and help us help Canadian Veterans. Come into the branch and join. The Royal Canadian Legion is one of the most vocal supporters of Canadian military community for nearly a century. We have provided essential services to veterans when they need it most, advocate for veterans needs, and help Canadians honour the sacrifice of those who served.

Okanagan Falls Lions Update By Bob Wilson, Past President Are we still doing OK? It’s diﬃcult to tell anymore. Masks oﬀ, case count increasing, but by the time this goes to print, who knows. Play it safe, if you don’t know the people or the place, wear a mask. If you don’t feel well, stay home. It ain’t rocket science folks - it’s now necessity. And, for those who think that the vaccine is going to alter your DNA, maybe that’s not a bad thing. April had our club doing the Easter Egg Hunt on the 17th, which was the first in 2 years. We were happy to be nominated for the “Building Community Spirit” column. Check it out in this issue. May brings us the Walk for Guide Dogs on Sunday, May 29. Meeting at Lions Park at 10 am. Watch for posters around town. We are still collecting used eyeglasses and our total over the last few years is now over 85 thousand from the surrounding area! Thanks to all who donated. School breakfasts are ongoing with 30-50 students receiving egg, ham and cheese buns twice a week at Okanagan Elementary School. Thanks to the volunteers and donators once again, as well as to the school for allowing us to work within their guidelines. That’s it for this month. We’re still here -active in the community. Please keep up the good habits. We’ll make it, if we work together. Blood, it’s in you to give! The next Blood Donor Clinics will be held on June 4 & 7 at the Penticton Senior Drop In Centre from 1:30 - 5:30 pm. The Canadian Blood Services needs both donors and volunteers for their clinics. To become a donor and/or volunteer, visit www.blood.ca or call 1-888-236-6283. The Okanagan Falls Lions Club meets monthly on the 2nd Tuesday, face to face if all goes well. If you would like to join us, call 778-4392275. Okanagan Falls Lion’s Club is online at www.e-clubhouse. org/sites/okfalls/ and www.facebook.com/okanaganfallslionsclub.

Get The Latest Updates ~ Always check the Facebook page “Royal Cdn Legion - Branch 227 Okanagan Falls BC”, the sign outside, or come into the Branch. We are located at 5009 Veterans Way in Okanagan Falls. For more information, please call 250497-8338. We are a small Legion with a big heart! H&M Thrifty Boutique

Better at Home is a non-medical program helping seniors remain independent in their homes.

H&M Thrifty Boutique Open 10-3 Wed-Fri & 12-3 Sat 250-486-6371

Okanagan Falls Heritage & Museum Place - 1145 Main St

Accepting Clean & Gently Used Clothing & Accessories In Person When Open Please!

South Skaha Housing Society Update By Michael Livingstone, SSHS Chair We currently have a fairly stable tenant list at South Skaha Place. However, people do move for whatever reason. So, if you are interested in making that move to becoming a tenant, I would suggest that you get your name on the wait list. We have a list of applicants for tenancy, which is maintained by our property manager (Locke Property Management). As mentioned before, there is an application form for potential tenants for South Skaha Place that can be found online at www.lockeproperties.ca/rentalapplication/. Be sure to get your name on the wait list! Our AGM was rescheduled for Tuesday, April 26. Thank you to those who attended. We’ll have to wait until next month to provide an update from our meeting. Thanks for your continued support.

We are recruiting the following positions for the Okanagan Falls area: Volunteer Drivers • Mileage reimbursement • Clean driver’s abstract required • 3 million liability car insurance required Housekeepers • Flexible schedule • Part time To discuss these positions, please contact 250-495-6925 and/or email bah@desertsun.ca. Thank you very much!

LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY

Honour Box Self Serve

Kaleden Community Church

FARM PRICES

10 am Sunday Worship ~ in-person and online Visit kaledenchurch.ca for updates and the link to our live worship. 443 Lakehill Rd. | kaledenchurch@gmail.com | 250-497-5995

Okanagan Falls Community Church

Sunday Service at 11 am ~ With Jon Manlove on May 8, 22 & 29. Guest Speakers: May 1 is Clint Heigh (Retired Missionary & Pastor); and May 15 is Del Riemer (Associate Pastor of Adult Ministries SBC). Services are both in- person and on YouTube. Children’s Church ~ Please call 250-497-2027 to register. FB: Okanagan Falls Community Church. Everyone is welcome! 1356 McLean Creek Rd, Okanagan Falls | Oﬃce: 250-497-5131

Okanagan Falls United Church

Sunday Service at 9 am ~ Speakers: May 1 - Rev. Laura Turnbull; May 8 - Victor Ince; May15 - Rev. Paul James; May22 - Rev.David Sparks; and May 29 - Sarah Tupholme L.L.WL Please visit www.okfallsunited.ca or call us for more information. 1108 Willow St, OK Falls | 250-497-1171 or 250-497-2560

Farm To Table! Self-Serve Fruit Stand

Open 24 hours a day & 7 days a week! 598 East Side Rd & 6th Ave, OK Falls

APPLES, PEARS, FRESH APPLE JUICE, & DRIED FRUIT

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Service

Sunday Mass at 11 am - Service held in St. Barbara’s Church 1039 Willow St, OK Falls | Father Thomas Kakkaniyil | 250-498-3934

St. Barbara’s Anglican Church

Sunday Service at 9:30 am & 4th Sunday each month at 1 pm. 1039 Willow St, OK Falls | Rev. Dr. Guna Vaddadi | 250-899-0163 Emergency Hampers can be made available from Okanagan Falls Helping Hand throughout the year with proper qualifications. To apply, please call 778-559-2412 and leave a message. Your call will be returned. Helping Hands will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Saturday, May 7 in the Okanagan Falls Community Church Basement at 1 pm. Anyone interested is welcome to attend. If you would like to help out our community residents in need, please come and see how you can lend a hand. Thank you!

Music & Market In The Park By Grant Henderson

Things are shaping up very quickly for this year’s summer program of Music & Market in the Park. All the bands are booked for the six events, as follows: • Father’s Day - Sunday, June 19 ~ 3 Peace from 5:00-6:30 pm and Finely Vinted from 6:30-8:00 pm • Canada Day, Friday, July 1 ~ Itty Bitty Jam Band from 4:005:30 pm and the Penticton Concert Band from 5:30-7:00 pm • Sunday, July 17 ~ The Blueshounds from 5:00-8:00 pm • Sunday, July 31 ~ Mozzy Lane from 5:00-8:00 pm • Sunday, August 14 ~ 13 Broken Bones from 5:00-8:00 pm • Sunday, August 28 ~ Rebel Luv from 5:00-8:00 pm All the activities take place at Centennial Park, behind the Okanagan Falls Fire Hall. It is a FREE Family Event! This is a year you won’t want to miss. Market spaces are still available for Farmers, Artisans/Crafters, and MLM representatives. A 10’x10’ space is only $10 per day. Contact Teresa at teresamillar28@gmail.com to arrange for your market space. Stay tuned for more exciting news.

You know what they say, “An Apple A Day ...”! Thank you for supporting your local grower! Enjoy Farm Direct Pricing

For large orders of 20 lbs or more, call 250-809-5353.

Flowers or Fish Heads?

Send yours to skahamatters@telus.net Your full name and location area is required on any submission.

Credible Cremation Services Ltd.

Sensible Prices for Practical People - At need / Pre need.

Call Lesley, our own Senior, Licensed Director

(Please Note: Some discretion on content inclusion may be involved.)

Total - Basic Cremation ... No Hidden Costs $1190.00 + taxes (Penticton area) $1390.00 + taxes (Kelowna area)

Flowers to all the mothers on Mother’s Day. ~ From Skaha Matters Fish Heads to the people lining the road to listen to horns honk on Saturday, April 2 - You may think it is acceptable to let the Canadian flag lay on the ground while you congratulate each other on your actions. It is not, and in my opinion, displays an unprecedented level of ignorance and lack of respect. Shame on you. ~ From Eleanor W. of Okanagan Falls

Boating Season Is Oﬃcially Open ... On Shuttleworth Creek!

250.493.3912

BC Lic# 49382

(24 hrs)

110-1960 Barnes St, Penticton, BC V2A 4C3 www.crediblecremation.ca

If Basic Cremation Is Your Choice By Lesley Luﬀ of Okanagan Falls & Osoyoos

Credible Cremation Services is available by telephone 24 hours to serve your needs, whether at need or pre-need. When you call our number, you will be greeted by Lesley, not an answering By Brenda Allan service. If you have had a death in the family, or a family member On April 7th, we saw a Little Tykes Tugboat in Shuttleworth Creek is imminent in hospital, at home, or in hospice, you probably have outside our house. We’re not sure how it got into the creek, as a number of questions that need answering. Sometimes, folks do most yards are fenced. Good news ... the owner was found! not quite know which steps to take first.

Handyman & Custom Finish Carpentry

Helping the Do-It-Yourself Homeowner

Jay Mallach 250.490.6343

No Job Too Small Licensed & Insured

jaymallach@gmail.com

LetsFinishIt.ca

Gather as much personal information as possible for the person, and for yourself and document it all. Once completed, place the information in a safe place. Information you will need to gather includes: Social Insurance Number; Care Card Number; Date and Place of Birth; Marital Status; Spouse’s Full Name and Place of Birth; Wife’s Maiden Surname, if applicable; Father’s Surname and Given Names (if known) and Place of Birth (if known); Mother’s Maiden Surname and Given Names and Place of Birth; Next of Kin or Executor, Executrix, Lawyer or Notary, along with their name, address and phone number; Is there a Will? Yes or No? If no Will, it is suggested that one be drawn up. If yes, where can it be located? Taking these simple steps of gathering information ahead of time, can eliminate a great deal of stress when a death occurs in the family. Any questions? Feel free to call Lesley at 250-493-3912. Credible Cremation Services 110-1960 Barnes Street, Penticton Lesley@crediblecremation.ca Advertise Your Business Here.

Next Deadline skahamatters@telus.net 250.490.6951 June 15-20 Neighbours Helping Neighbours.

Wildﬁre Consequences?

By Brent Redenbach, Concerned Outdoor Enthusiast With wildfire season quickly approaching, and it appearing to be the NEW NORM as of recent years, myself and many others ponder the idea of what ever happens to the PEOPLE who cause or start a wildfire accidentally or intentionally? We NEVER hear of this information during or after the actual event!? We get preached upon by many, ideas to help avoid wildfires, etc. ... no burning, don’t flick cigarette butts, don’t park in tall grass ... just to name a few. You know, common sense, right? If we the people never hear of the punishment for the crime, then there must not be one? If someone was fined HUGE, then many people would consider it a serious oﬀence. If there is no punishment for the crime, who cares if one caused or started a forest fire? I think it’s time for the courts or whomever to better make information in this regard public. Then maybe, just maybe, people will pay more attention to their goings on. To contact this author directly, please email ve7ren@shaw.ca.

SkahaMatters.com | May 2022 | Page 31