Boulevard Magazine Okanagan, 2023 ISSUE 3

CONTACT 250.861.8645

ADDRESS 2455-D Highway 97 North, Kelowna, BC V1X4J2

WEBSITE MARSHALLSHOMELIVING.COM

Marshall’s Home Living is located in Kelowna – the heart of the Okanagan. We are the Okanagan’s top destination for the best in home furnishings and the largest fine furniture showroom outside of the Lower Mainland. We offer a carefully curated collection of exclusive furniture in a variety of styles – from relaxed beachy charm to state-of-the-art contemporary elegance.

Marshall’s is proud to showcase leading furniture manufacturers from North America, Europe, and Asia. Our large gallery ensures customers can either choose from an endless selection of the latest furniture, accessories, and finishings that are in stock and ready to take home today, or special order that perfect piece!

Also, our dedicated team provides expert design help and effortless white glove delivery that ensures your space and your budget are perfectly tuned and that your project is executed to perfection.

From condominium to estate living, come in and choose a fully customized furniture package, a unique piece for that finishing touch, or come in just to get a spark of inspiration from our trend setting in-store displays! Style your life and live your style at Marshall’s Home Living.

The new home of LUXURY FURNITURE

in the Okanagan Valley

HIGHEST QUALITY FURNITURE crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail

We aspire to inspire beautification of

SHOWCASING A STUNNING COLLECTION OF EUROPEAN INSPIRED FURNITURE

The wall cabinets are painted in a custom black ma e. The island is stained using Merit’s Seaside Timberwood, and finished with custom panels and shelves, providing the tailored look from all directions.

Photo by Lia Crowe Jaclyn

Business sense: Glenn Rogers

B y David Wylie 132

Suzanne Degner

B y Angela Cowan

B y Hans Tammemagi 136

Photo by Lia Crowe

PAGE 126

“Having reported on ‘bucket list’ experiences from over 100 countries on seven continents, I loved the idea of sailing in the footsteps of Caribbean pirates. I set out to find the perfect combination of adventure, history, beauty, and relaxation. The Star Flyer was definitely a case of X marking the spot.” A proud South Afri-Canadian, Robin is the author of numerous bestselling travel books, a popular speaker, and a former National Geographic and OLN television host. He lives in Vancouver with his young family, and continues to explore unique experiences both near and far.

BOULEVARD Mario Gedicke GROUP PUBLISHER 250.891.5627 info@blvdmag.ca

MANAGING EDITOR Susan Lundy

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lia Crowe

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan

DESIGN Nel Pallay

Tammy Robinson

ADVERTISING Mario Gedicke

Vicki Clark

Carien Wessels

Harr y van Hemmen

“Do you ever walk into a place and know instantly you’re going to have a great experience there? That’s what it’s like walking into Apricus Cellars in the fabulous District Wine Village in Oliver, BC. It’s wine-tasting at its finest, and something everyone should experience, preferably more than once!” Darcy Nybo is a freelance writer, author, magazine editor, writing coach and writing instructor living the good life in the Okanagan.

CONTRIBUTING

WRITERS Angela Cowan

Lia Crowe

Robin Esrock

Jen Evans

Laura Goldstein

Janice Jefferson

Lauren Kramer

Susan Lundy

Darcy Nybo

Kaisha Scofield

Ellie Shortt

Hans Tammemagi

David Wylie

APRICUS: DELECTABLE, DELIGHTFUL

PAGE 24

CONTRIBUTING Lia Crowe

PHOTOGRAPHERS Don Denton

Darren Hull

ILLUSTRATION Sierra Lundy

HANS

TAMMEMAGI

WRITER

SWEAT LODGE: THE OLDEST CHURCH ON EARTH

PAGE 134

“Indigenous culture, as demonstrated in the sweat lodge, is rich, appealing and caring. I revel in it whenever the opportunity permits, and love the dances with colourful masks, the totems soaring skywards, the mythology underlying their beliefs and the deep and thoughtful connection with nature.” Hans lives on Pender Island with his wife and cat where he enjoys exploring the southern Gulf Islands by kayak, bike and even on foot. He writes articles and books about travel, environment, First Nations and things he finds odd and quirky.

CIRCULATION Maria Zacarias DISTRIBUTION 250.763.7575

DARCY NYBO WRITER

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada

ROBIN ESROCK WRITER BILLOWING SAILS AND PIRATE TALES

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

Time travellers

Embarking on a journey to the other side of the world throws your body into time-travelling confusion, sometimes with surprising results like the occasion I flew home from Indonesia with an overnight stop in Hong Kong and somehow—through this rabbit hole of time—managed to have my birthday twice.

But sleep is the true victim of time travel. My go-to, sleep-solution travel method involves taking the long-haul portion of a flight to Europe overnight, packing a sleep mask, earplugs and sleeping pill, snoozing for seven hours and waking up refreshed and all time-acclimatized in Europe. It’s a good theory, anyway. But last November, when I travelled to Europe to meet up with my friend Sandra and attend a few of my musician daughter’s gigs, I merely dozed periodically during the flight and my time-travelling confusion never seemed to abate the entire trip.

For Sandra, sleep had become a nightly battle since her partner’s death a year earlier, and she regularly awoke after just four or five hours of slumber. But at the beginning of this trip, it seemed she’d sorted it out. At the urging of a friend who travelled frequently between Europe and North America, Sandra determinedly stayed awake until 8 pm on her first night in Paris.

“If you can make it to 8 o’clock, and then sleep through the night, you’ll be golden,” the friend had advised.

So, Sandra fought her heavy lids until precisely 8 pm, shut down her computer and crawled with relief into bed. It was a glorious sleep. Deep. Dreamless. She woke, surprisingly refreshed at 9 o’clock, marvelling at how well her friend’s advice had worked. She showered, dressed, put on her makeup, went to the window and pulled back the curtains.

“Huh,” she mused. “Mornings are quite dark here in Paris.”

Of course, it was dark. It was 9 pm, not 9 am. She’d slept deep and heavy—for one hour.

She relayed this story to me as we sat in a cute restaurant, where we had already committed two Parisian gaffes. First, it was about 6 pm—about an hour before we needed to be at the music venue—and chi-chi-looking Paris people everywhere had sat down outside at tiny, street-facing tables, dressed in the latest fashion, elegantly sipping glasses of wine and enjoying life in the mindfulness sort of in-the-moment French way. At first, we also sat on outside chairs. However, it was November and we do cold often enough at home. The server, one of the few people we encountered in Paris who didn’t speak English, seemed perplexed to find us seated inside, but nevertheless he presented us with a multi-page wine list.

When I—in prudent deference to the long night ahead—ordered a small glass of wine, Sandra shook her head with authority. She’d been in Paris a week by now: small glasses of wine were just that—very small, she said. So, we ordered large glasses, white for her, red for me…but our jaws dropped when they arrived. Remember when you could “supersize” your order at fast food restaurants? It appeared we’d supersized our wine order. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such large glasses of wine.

Our next un-Parisian moment came when we asked for food menus amid what was obviously wine-drinking time and not dinner-eating time. But in the end, it was a blessing our server didn’t speak English. When my daughter texted from the venue, asking if we could find her a cup for the throat-soothing tea she likes to have on stage, Sandra took charge.

“Excusez-moi,” she said, beckoning the waiter. “Do you have any to-go cups…?” He looked bewildered. “Cups to take with us? Umm….” She held up her glass of wine and pantomimed pouring it into another cup.

All good, except that she had less than a centimetre of wine at the bottom of the glass, so it suddenly appeared she wanted to take this last sip of wine to go. We realized this in the same instant and absolutely dissolved into giggles. Another Parisian gaffe, I’m sure. But thanks in part to that very large glass of wine, Sandra did finally get a good sleep that night.

This issue of Boulevard has lots of stories and images to get you in the mood for travel. Enjoy!

Susan Lundy Managing Editor

Susan Lundy is a former journalist who now works as an editor, author and freelance writer. Her latest book, Home on the Strange, was published in 2021 via Heritage House Publishing.

JACLYN ROBERTSON, CEO | CREATIVE DIRECTOR, OKANAGAN LIFESTYLE WORDS + PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

Spending time with Jaclyn is like basking in sunshine. She seems to have intention behind every aspect of life and leaves one feeling expanded and uplifted.

Passionate about reading, writing, slow and conscious living, biking and yoga, Jaclyn is also the mother of two boys. I start by asking what she loves most about her work, and she says, “The brilliant and caring world-class people I get to work alongside in the stunning Okanagan region.”

With “patience” as the cornerstone of her daily practice for success, Jaclyn adds, “Trusting my strategic vision and working with great integrity have led me to where I am today. Special mention to Libby DeLana and Alex Elle who inspired me last year to adopt a beautiful and consistent outdoor walking practice. In the slowness of walking throughout the Okanagan Valley, I re-meet myself each new day.”

And what’s the best life lesson Jaclyn has learned? “To never stop learning or listening generously. The power of being willingly agile, and the tremendous importance of caring for one’s self as a first and key priority—one cannot pour from an empty vessel!"

When it comes to style, Jaclyn says, “Good style means expressing your unique gifts and personality in all areas of your life. I believe living an integrated lifestyle with a deep knowing of who you are is one of the most stylish quests there is.”

STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE

Style icon: Grece Ghanem. Album on current rotation: The Undoing by Steffany Gretzinger.

Favourite flower: Pink peonies—they remind me of my late grandmother Helen (who birthed 13 children on a farm and was as fierce and kind as they come!).

Favourite city to visit: This evolves: recently Armstrong, Victoria, Montreal and New York. Each for many different reasons!

Favourite app: My podcast app. Favourite place in the whole world: Sincerely, the Okanagan Valley.

One thing that consistently lifts your spirits during hard times: Music, without question or doubt.

READING MATERIAL

Coffee table book/photography book: Currently on my coffee table is Still: The Slow Home by Natalie Walton and The Kinfolk Entrepreneur by Nathan Williams.

FASHION & BEAUTY

All-time favourite piece: It depends on the day! My style is fluid, ever-changing and expanding— like me!

Favourite pair of shoes: My favourite John Fluevog boots feel like home to me. They keep me feeling grounded yet confident.

Favourite day-bag: I’m biased, but The Jax Tote from The Market Bags.

Favourite work tool: My Apple watch! I appreciate that this simple accessory allows me to stay connected to what matters to me most, both professionally and with my health/wellness, while having boundaries when I want to be home and present with my family.

Favourite jewellery piece or designer: I love the thoughtfulness and sustainability behind my Pyrrha pieces.

Accessory you spend the most money on: My hat collection!

Necessary indulgence for either fashion or beauty: Water. Does this count!? Flow Water has been an amazing asset in my beauty and health toolbox.

Moisturizer: I love the hydrating face lotion from Om Naturale, from a local farm in Armstrong. Must-have hair product: Davines Invisible Dry Shampoo.

Beauty secret: See You Sundae Face Tan Water.

Last great read: Rise Up: Leadership Habits for Turbulent Times by Ali Grovue and Mike Watson.

design notes

I love the freedom of a summer road trip: pack only what fits in the trunk of your car, and set off with no schedule and just the open road ahead. Whether you’re taking a relaxing solo trip or hitting the road with a van full of family or friends, the journey is as important as the destination. So, why not take that road trip in style?

By Janice Jefferson, Modhaus Designs

5.

2.

Skateboard Cribbage Board Funktional, $110 Roundabout by Ray-Ban Boheme Collective, $217

3. Mendochino Fanny Pack Kaleco Sustainable Lifestyle, $54

4. Winetripping: Your Guide to the Best Wineries of British Columbia By Rachel von Sturmer

Check local bookstores

5. VW ID. Buzz Van VW Canada, *pre-order now—prices vary

6. Slip Dress: Neon Desert Riverside Tool & Die shopadhoc.com, $325

7. Beach Hat Kaleco Sustainable Lifestyle, $52

8. Sunshine & Wine T-Shirt Okanagan Lifestyle, $49

9. Miss Vickie’s Jalapeño Kettle Chips

Available in numerous places

Prices vary

10. Bath Towel: Sunset Quilt Stripes Baggu shopadhoc.com, $60

11. OKGN Slides Okanagan Lifestyle, $75

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8.

6.

7.

9.

well and good

All things adaptogen

Tools to help battle stress, anxiety, depression and more

WORDS KAISHA SCOFIELD

f there’s one thing we are all tired of talking about, it’s stress. Because talking about stress is, well, stressful!

Yes, we know there is too much stress in our lives and, yes, we know that meditating, doing yoga, going for walks and deep breathing will melt that stress away. But let’s be honest, when life is stressful, the idea of deep breathing makes most of us want to scream. The hustle is real and, for most people, finding time to de-stress is the most stressful task of all.

A close second stressor is the knowledge that stress is really detrimental to our overall health and wellness. There are seemingly endless studies coming out about the brutal effects stress can have on our mental and physical health, with some suggesting that too much stress can even shorten lifespan.

Unfortunately, dealing with stress is one of those situations where it can get worse before it gets better. The act of de-stressing is only possible when the body and mind feel supported enough to tackle extra challenges. Sometimes a vacation, an unplugged weekend or even a spa day can offer just enough peace to face stress head on.

However, acts of self-care are usually initiated only after the stress has become unbearable, and often the last thing I want to do with newfound vacation peace is deal with my stress.

It might be time to call in reinforcements.

You may have seen some strange new products pop up in your local coffee shop, like mushroom coffee, ginseng elixirs and turmeric lattes. If you’re a follower of Gwyneth Paltrow, you may have heard her GOOPies drop words like reishi, ashwagandha, rhodiola or schisandra. No, this isn’t an exclusive new GOOP language, they are talking about adaptogens, the latest hack in wellness town. Adaptogens are not new. They are derived from plants that have the ability to aid the body in adapting to daily stressors and/or improving body function. They have been used around the world and studied extensively by non-western medicine for centuries.

Ginseng, for example, was mentioned in Chinese medical texts as early as 196 AD. Turmeric was found in tombs on the Indian subcontinent dating back to 2500 BCE. In the 1980s, Russian scientists put great effort into studying adaptogens in hopes that they could be used to support military efforts.

Today, adaptogens have reached peak popularity in the mainstream wellness industry and, as a result, we are seeing them pop up on coffee shop menus, and in juice bars and cookbooks. Because they are derived from natural plant sources, people find them less intimidating than supplementation. One of the biggest appeals of adaptogens is that they can be paired and customized to the specific needs of the user.

As with any product that promises health and wellness, it is wise to be as informed as possible about what you are consuming. Issues can arise if adaptogens are taken incorrectly. For example, they can be ineffective, can cause stimulation while the desired result is relaxation, or even interfere with medications and hormone balance.

Here are some of the more popular adaptogens and what they are more commonly used for: ginseng increases brain function, reflexes and immune function, while decreasing stress and creating a sense of calm; ashwagandha relaxes and reduces stress and anxiety. It is also anti-inflammatory and helps with blood sugar regulation. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, while boosting brain function and combating depression; rhodiola rosea stimulates and combats fatigue while improving brain function, and it is said to elevate exercise performance; schisandra is stimulating and increases brain performance, capacity and endurance, and supports fitness; reishi mushroom aids in sleep health and reduces stress.

This is just a sample; there are many more adaptogens on the market, including a whole host of adaptogenic mushrooms, mojo-boosting maca, stress-reducing tulsi basil and stimulating astragalus.

One of the most promising areas of adaptogen research is in countering the undesirable effects of perimenopause and full menopause. For example, rhodiola can help to balance the hormones that cause mood swings, anxiety and hot flashes, while schisandra has been shown to stimulate the central nervous system, improve cognition and balance neurotransmitters.

This all sounds pretty good, right? Brain-boosting, stress-reducing, anti-inflammation—yes, to all of that!

So how do we go about taking these magical elixirs? An important first step is to be clear on what symptom you are most interested

in tackling and plan accordingly. Some adaptogens are calming and others stimulating, so while it is okay to combine them, you want to be sure to time your consumption accordingly. For example, don’t take a large dose of rhodiola with your evening meal unless you want to pull an all-nighter, on account of its stimulating effects.

Dosage is also a consideration, as is duration of consumption. Most adaptogens build up in your system over time so there is a benefit to sustained use. However, some can become less effective over time, so it is advisable to cycle your use accordingly.

The most important step to taking adaptogens to is to do your research, keep track of what you are taking and what effect (if any) it is having on whatever symptom you are hoping to improve. It is this nutritionist’s hope that adaptogens are used as a tool to create the space needed to tackle the stresses of life, to clear them out and ultimately make room for activities in life that bring joy and wellness. As tempting as it is, they should not be used to take on more work and further compound the stressors of life.

Adaptogens will not make you a superhero but they might make you super enough to clear out some of your more overwhelming tasks and projects.

Note: if the stress in your life feels overwhelming to the point of altering your ability to enjoy activities that you have enjoyed in the past and is causing depression or anxiety, please couple your adaptogen use with help from a mental health professional.

Adaptogens are not new. They are derived from plants that have the ability to aid the body in adapting to daily stressors and/or improving body function.

o create great wine, you need sunshine, good soil and quality grapes. To build a great winery team, you need someone with an intimate understanding of the lands and vineyards, a visionary winemaker and someone with solid business acumen.

Apricus Cellars, located in the magnificent District Wine Village in Oliver, checks all these boxes and exceeds expectations with its wines.

Meet the owners

Sam Baptiste, Aaron Crey and Willy Sabo are the proud owners of Apricus Cellars, a fitting moniker with dual meanings: delectable and basking in sunshine. This trio shares a love of wine, the Okanagan and Apricus Cellars—and they want to share it with everyone else.

TFrom left, Willy Sabo, Aaron Crey, Sam Baptistare are coowners of Apricus Cellars.

Sam, who studied horticulture at Washington State University and viticulture at the University of California, Davis, began his wine career at Nk’Mip Cellars in Osoyoos, picking rocks, pounding posts, stretching wire and planting vines by hand. He loves this work and has a real connection to the land where Apricus’ grapes are grown.

“Apricus Cellars sources fruit from some of the oldest plantings in the Okanagan,” Sam explains. “The Riesling is 46 years old; the Chardonnay is 32 years old. The rest of the portfolio is sourced

from newer plantings.”

While Sam doesn’t have a favourite grape, he does have a preferred wine: “It’s the Cabernet Sauvignon dominant Bordeaux blends. They are rich, bold, multi-layered wines.”

You can’t make quality wine without a great winemaker and that’s Aaron Crey. Aaron fell in love with the Okanagan and moved here from the Fraser Valley about two decades ago. He studied viticulture and oenology at Lincoln University in New Zealand and spent 17

Ask Aaron anything about the creation of Apricus wines—watching

years on the winemaking team at Nk’Mip Cellars.

As the sole winemaker for Apricus Cellars, he loves the creative freedom he’s been given by the other partners, saying, “I love capturing the very best characteristics of the grapes I work with.”

Ask Aaron anything about the creation of Apricus wines— watching his face light up as he describes the process is almost as enjoyable as the wines themselves. His broad smile tells you he truly loves what he does.

Then there’s Willy Sabo. He’s an Okanagan-loving Fraser Valley entrepreneur who’s been coming to the Okanagan for 30 years.

“I spend eight months a year here now,” he says. “My other businesses were doing quite well and, when the opportunity came up, I thought it would be great to go into business with Sam and Aaron. It was a good fit all the way around.”

For Willy, Apricus is an enjoyable business venture that feels like family and he loves that his actual family is involved.

“My wife and daughters are into it too. They have a restaurant background and it’s amazing to see what foods they pair with our wines.”

The wines

Great wines and good food can make anyone’s day better. Apricus Cellars has a licensed patio as well as an inside tasting room.

Ward’s Kitchen, headed by Chef Ian Stilborn, will deliver food anywhere within the District Wine Village, and Apricus’ staff can advise which foods pair well with their wines. Here are some Apricus wines to check out:

2020 DAYBREAK

This could be the summer sipper for 2023. An aromatic blend of 50 per cent Ehrenfelser, 25 per cent Pinot Gris and 25 per cent Riesling, it’s aged entirely in stainless steel to preserve the freshness of the fruit. The perfect wine for the patio, it has a mixture of citrus from the Riesling as well as mandarin and tea leaf flavours from the Ehrenfelser. The Pinot Gris offers depth, bringing notes of apple and honey.

Daybreak pairs well with sunshine and good company in addition to any pasta in a light cream sauce.

his face light up as he describes the process is almost as enjoyable as the wines themselves.

2020 AURORA

This delicious Pinot Gris has a secret: 75 per cent of the wine was aged in stainless steel to maintain freshness and fruitiness, while the other 25 per cent was aged in neutral French oak barrels for five months. This combination adds depth and complexity to the wine. It has hints of citrus, peach and a touch of lemon meringue.

As for pairing, this is a great sipping wine and is best shared with friends alongside your favourite seafood dinner.

2020 ECLIPSE

Now and then you come across a Chardonnay that even non-Chardonnay lovers enjoy. Eclipse is that wine. Initially fermented and aged for five months in new French oak barrels, it is then transferred to stainless steel tanks for nine months to age and to coax out the toasty vanilla and spice flavours, bringing harmony to the wine.

Eclipse has citrus components that don’t overwhelm and pairs wonderfully with creamy and salty foods, like burrata cheese with smoked bacon on toasted sourdough in brown butter and chive oil.

2018 ZEPHYR

This approachable, medium-bodied red wine delivers an opulent-yet-sassy tasting experience, offering notes of red fruits, dates, tobacco and savory spice. A blend of 75 per cent Merlot, 20 per cent Cabernet Franc, and five per cent Malbec, it’s left on the skins for two weeks and then aged in French oak for 24 months.

Zephyr pairs well with everything. Try it with spicy tuna on sourdough with avocado crema. The spice in the tuna elevates the fruit in the wine for a delicious treat.

2019 ASPECT

Aspect is Apricus’ flagship wine. It’s a smooth and spicy Meritage, aged 24 months in French oak. Drink now or age it for another 10 years. A perfect blend of 70 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, 15 per cent Merlot, five per cent Cabernet Franc, five per cent Malbec and five per cent Petite Verdot, this wine displays dense red fruit character, mulberry, blackberry and layers of dark chocolate.

It will pair well with any meat. However, on our visit, we enjoyed it with lightly charred grilled oyster mushrooms served on jasmine rice. The mushrooms were a perfect choice to draw the earthiness from the wine.

Apricus is a must-see winery the next time you’re in Oliver.

Apricus Cellars acknowledges the winery is situated on the traditional, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. They are grateful to have the opportunity to create, collaborate and work on this land with members of this community.

Element of the unexpected Revelling in surprises during a Nanoose Bay getaway

BY SUSAN LUNDY X PHOTOS COURTESY FAIRWINDS

rapped in blankets and tucked into an L-shaped couch beside a gas-powered fire bowl, my daughter and I sit outside on the deck of our “home for the night” at Fairwinds Residences in Nanoose Bay. Glasses of wine in hand, we chat cosily and enjoy the view of a moonlit sky that casts a gentle glow on Fairwinds Marina, sitting directly before us. It’s the same spot we sat a few hours ago as evening-shade pastel colours crawled across the sky and a distant mountain range glowed in white.

Custom Picture Framing

But as we discuss our day, our conversation is peppered with the word “surprise”—it seems it’s the element of the unexpected that has highlighted our experiences.

This beautiful, airy two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite with a full kitchen, comfortable sitting area and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows—all within touching distance of the ocean—was our first surprise. Who knew this shore-hugging collection of suites even existed, let alone offered this exquisite touch of luxury and comfort?

Nanoose Bay is located just south of Parksville on Vancouver Island. After driving north through Nanaimo, take a right off Highway 1 and enter an unexpected haven of rural farmland,

parks, ocean views, forested trails and the Fairwinds development that includes upscale homes, a sprawling golf course—and a few surprises.

After checking in to our suite, we drove back down the road to the members-only Fairwinds Wellness Centre, which is available to all Fairwinds Residences guests for $40 a week.

Like our suite, the centre revealed some surprises. Set against an outcropping of steep rock, trees and trails, it exudes a peaceful ambiance with its beautiful high-ceilinged spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows that open directly onto the natural setting outside and bathe the space in natural light. Here, you can find two weight rooms, a yoga or stretching room, a billiards/games room with an adjoining

Mediterranean Coastal Flavours on the Shores of the Okanagan

Immerse yourself into the flavours of the Mediterranean paired with carefully selected local ingredients harvested from land & sea. From small and large plates designed to share, as well as vegetarian and gluten free options, our menu has been crafted to pair perfectly with an impressive, international wine list.

reading room, a kitchen, a 20-metre pool, hot tub and dry sauna, an outdoor tennis court, and a massive gym area for pickleball and other racket sports. This approximately 20-year-old structure also has lots of outdoor seating areas, and even space for live music. To top it off, various classes here are available to Fairwind guests.

So, this was a bit of a surprise.

Neither my daughter nor I are golfers. However, as we drove through Fairwinds’ lush-looking, rolling golf course, we were almost tempted to give it a try. Literature for the 18-hole course describes scenery as spectacular, with “150-year-old Douglas firs, sculpted driftwood, dramatic shorelines, wildlife and breathtaking views.” The course has two large practice greens with a year-round driving

range, covered and heated stalls and a short-game practice area. Certified PGA of Canada professionals provide lessons, camps and clinics for golfers of all ages and abilities.

But instead of picking up golf clubs, we decided to check out the trail network, and encountered yet another unexpected experience. The hiking trails here are extensive and accessible, with marked levels of ease (easy, intermediate, difficult), and the paths wind through forest and wetlands, and past large ponds and lakes. On this day the woods were dappled in sunlight. Notch Hill is one popular hiking spot in the area, but we took the trails to Enos Lake, which suddenly appeared before us in glassy-surfaced perfection, just calling out for summertime swimming and picnics at the water’s edge.

A few hours later, we set out for dinner at Seascape restaurant, which adjoins the Fairwinds Residences at Fairwinds Landing. Here we discovered a menu heavy on delectable-looking seafood dishes, a renowned AAA sirloin steak, and several plant-based options. And the view from our seaside window table was unrivalled. (As it turned out, this was one of the last dinner services at Seascape before it switched ownership. Now we’re excited to come back and experience another surprise when it reopens.)

And so, after a nightcap of wine on our suite’s moon-lit deck, we crawled into our comfy beds satiated…and, well, surprised.

The next day, the hits just kept coming. Back at the Wellness Centre, we rented electric bikes (mountain bikes were also available) and set out to explore the area and reward our “hard biking work” with lunch at a pub. E-bikes are the way to go! It’s been years since I’ve cycled, but these e-bikes were straightforward and easy to ride, and it made me so happy each time I hit a hilly incline and the bike’s “assist” kicked in. We took a circle route, gliding down the main roads first and riding the more-enjoyable back roads on the return. The main roads, we discovered, were quite busy with gravelly shoulders not completely conducive to cycling. But speeding along on a bike, taking in the sights on a more upclose level is a wonderful way to travel and I felt practically giddy with the experience.

And then—surprise! The Rocking Horse Pub. Following signs to the pub, we arrived at what appeared a residential horse farm only to be transported through the doors into a rich, warm and inviting old-English-style pub. A wood fire danced in the fireplace and the interior setting welcomed us with its array of charming antiques and quaint details. There’s a patio in the park-like area outside, and the pub itself is split into two areas—the dining room and a more casual bar area. We tucked into a platter of nachos, and while we were surprised to discover this place, we were not surprised to learn that it is super popular.

After returning the bikes to the Wellness Centre, and still filled with exuberance from the bike ride and pub discovery, we jumped back in the car and drove around a bit, further exploring the area. Among other spots, our drive took us to Moorecroft Regional Park, which has a long beach and views across the water plus a beautiful wetland area and trail network.

Now, on our way back to the highway, one final surprise remained: the Rusted Rake Brewery.

A quick stop here revealed a beautiful building—from the massive tree columns at the entranceway to a natural-light interior and patio at the back that’s set against a grassy farmland backdrop—as well as an excellent food and drinks menu.

Placing the Rusted Rake Brewery on our must-do list, we turned onto the highway and headed home—still talking about our surprise-rich getaway.

And so, after a nightcap of wine on our suite’s moonlit deck, we crawled into our comfy beds satiated…and, well, surprised.

Building a legacy, one stone at a time

PRIME time

Brandt Fralick’s rocky road to success

Owning your own business can seem glamorous to outsiders.

Visit Brandt Fralick’s 24,000-square-foot health centre in Kelowna and you might be dazzled by what it offers. PRIME is a multi-disciplinary integrated health, fitness, medical, pharmaceutical, musculoskeletal health, rehab and functional movement facility. It buzzes with nearly 70 practitioners and support staff, among them family doctors, specialists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, kinesiologists, occupational health and rehab experts, athletic coaches, personal trainers and nutrition consultants, and serves over 45,000 members of the community.

At its helm sits Brandt, 36, the driving force behind PRIME. He has an impressive number of accolades, including being named a Top 40 Under 40 business-

person of the year twice by the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, and being nominated for awards for smalland medium-sized business of the year in his region. PRIME was awarded the Consumers Choice Award in three of the last four years, and last year the Canadian Business Review Board designated PRIME as one of the best businesses in Canada.

The path to reach this point was anything but easy, though, and it’s a message Brandt wants readers to understand. He’d planned a completely different trajectory for his life, when one day, in 2007, everything changed.

Brandt, a Kelowna native, became an avid sprinter at the age of nine after watching Donovan Bailey sprint for Canada in the 1996 Olympic Games. Inspired and determined, he qualified to the World

Juniors (U20) in 2003 to represent Canada as a member of the sprints and relays team, and continued to compete for Canada in the European circuit after graduating from Kelowna Secondary School in 2004.

On November 27, 2007, the 19-year-old was in the peak of his health and gearing up for the 2008 Olympic season. He was driving the Coquihalla highway from Vancouver to Kelowna to visit his family when a car accident sent his vehicle on a 200-foot downhill spiral over the hillside. Miraculously, he survived the fall. With a burst fracture in his lumbar spine and a sequestered L4 and L5 disc, he somehow found the strength to crawl through four feet of snow back up to the road, where he was found by an off-duty member of a local search and rescue team.

After a week of hospitalization following surgery to repair his ruptured spine, Brandt was told he’d likely live in chronic pain and walk with a limp for the rest of his life.

“I had to accept that this was my new normal and figure out how I’d carry on,” he said.

Brandt relearned how to walk and eventually started training through his pain in hopes of competing again. He worked with a team of medical practitioners, rehab specialists and physiotherapists daily, and in August 2009 he competed at the Canada Games in Prince Edward Island.

One year later, he lost his father to a battle with cancer.

“It was a lot to go through as a young man,” he reflected. “First to have that extreme high as an athlete, and then after the accident, wondering what I could possibly give the world that held any value. Then losing my father… I had to try to rebuild and redefine myself.”

In 2008, Brandt formed Nitro Velocity, an athletic performance company where he built his brand and personally coached over 2,500 athletes from a wide range of sports, helping them compete

at every level from developmental, amateur, collegiate, semi-pro to professional.

The 20-hour workdays were a pleasant distraction from the physical pain that haunted Brandt daily, as well as the emotional pain from the loss of his father.

“The pain pushed me to extraordinary heights and allowed me an ability to hyper-focus on helping people as much as possible,” he recalled. “I thought, if I gave up my life to help others, I would be giving value to the life I still have and nearly lost in my car accident.”

As Nitro continued to grow, Brandt began working towards opening a small integrated health facility. In 2014, he opened in his first location, rebranded as PRIME. It consisted of a small gym and physiotherapy clinic offering sports medicine, physiotherapy, kinesiology, athletic training and small group-fitness classes. His goal was to treat as many people as possible through collaborative and integrated health care, in the same way others had helped him in regaining his physical health.

By 2016, he began drafting designs for a new facility that would become one of the largest privately owned, integrated health care clinics in Canada, and within three years it became a reality. In August 2019, PRIME opened its new space, consisting of a family medical practice and walk-in clinic, physiotherapy and sports medicine services, a pharmacy and gym.

COVID-19 came months later, and unlike many other businesses, PRIME did not qualify for government support or additional bank loans through the mandated closures. That forced Brandt to near bankruptcy in the first several months of being open. Turning to alternative lenders at over 30 per cent interest rates, he says it was a deeply stressful period in his life, and one devoid of any glamour.

“PRIME had a waitlist of over 20,000 people for our family physi-

cians, so I couldn’t just walk away from the path I was on. I had promises to keep,” he recalls. “Not only was there immense financial obligation, but I was also carrying the weight from the demands and commitments I made to physicians, physiotherapists and employees, as well as thousands of residents of the community. It was beyond overwhelming.”

He adds: “I got lost in this monster, trying to survive in business, and it’s been an incredibly lonely journey with a huge personal toll.” He credits his friend and employee, Tamara, for helping him tremendously for four years, noting, “I will be forever grateful for all she did.”

He also attributes his strength to persevere through these times to his long-time friend Melani McBratney.

“She was the single pillar holding me together at times. PRIME provides health care to over 45,000 residents of Kelowna today because of the emotional support and strength she gave me to continue to push day after day.”

Over the past several months, Brandt has been forced to acknowledge the true personal cost of achieving his dream and has regrouped and reflected on his future priorities. With the support of his team at PRIME, he is learning to restructure portions of his company, providing more time for his next chapter in life.

“I boarded this train because I wanted to leave a legacy. I wanted to impact my community in a way that would exceed my lifetime,” he reflected. “But along the way, I made many mistakes. I pushed away the person I love most and thought I would have for my lifetime and consequently, some of the other people who truly matter most in my world to me.”

Now, he adds, he wants to make the most of his time with the people he loves, and he’s dedicated this new-found perspective on his life and future to a special woman, who he says he’ll always hold cherished in his heart.

“I’m ready to evolve in my life and learn what the next chapter holds for me. I’m incredibly proud of PRIME and what I’ve created in terms of integrated health, and we will keep expanding and providing more services over the years to come. There are massive things on our horizon.”

“The pain pushed me to extraordinary heights and allowed me an ability to hyper-focus on helping people as much as possible. I thought, if I gave up my life to help others, I would be giving value to the life I still have and nearly lost in my car accident.”

Heaven on the hilltop

Peace, quiet and the ultimate in luxury living at this Woodland Hills home

QUICK FACTS

Square feet: 4,200

Bedrooms: 3

Offices: 2

Bathrooms: 3 plus 2 powder rooms, including one outdoors

Garage: Oversize 2-car

Amenities: Swimming pool, gym

Fireplaces: 2

Decks: 1 upper and 1 lower

WORDS DARCY NYBO

PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

arryl Chemel and Cindy Granek were happy in Toronto, except for the traffic and noise, which seemed to get worse each year. Visiting Kelowna, they were captivated by a lone vacant lot with sweeping views of mountains, lakes and vineyards.

It was the last lot in Woodland Hills, so they bought it, and over the next year, they worked with Destination Homes and Uprise Design + Drafting to create an eclectic, functional and comfortable home—built just to their liking.

It’s apparent that this professional couple has eclectic tastes the moment you walk up to their bright orange front door. As you step inside the house, the open space immediately takes the eyes darting from one unique feature to another. First, they settle on the gas fireplace, which is encompassed in a tiled, 18-foot-tall, monolithic-style wall. These gorgeous tiles have warm browns, whites and greys running through them to create asymmetrical patterns.

A glance to the left and the kitchen area pops with splashes of colour, like the bright red quilted island stools and deep red kitchen cabinet uppers.

Builder Travis Erdely, of Destination Custom Homes

Look again and you’ll see a custom-made, 42-inch round kitchen table attached to a rectangular island. This works remarkably well in the room and adds a softness to the right angles. The island countertop is made of Dekton, a mixture of 20 minerals bonded to create a composite that is functional, easy to clean and beautiful.

When you look more closely at the large open-concept area, you’ll note that while everything is beautifully designed, much of it is not symmetrical. This couple loves asymmetrical patterns, and this theme repeats itself throughout the house.

“If you were to describe us, you could say we are very asymmetrical,” Cindy says. “We don’t need things to be perfectly balanced.”

This attitude is present in the asymmetrical patterns in the counters, the fireplace surrounds and the unique lighting choices. The highly asymmetrical Kuzco Cursive LED linear pendant above the island draws the eye with its unique design. The fixture above the dining room table is also asymmetrical, with a different number of lights on each end.

No matter how you look at it, this kitchen/dining area is ready for any cook or chef to create cuisine to their heart’s content. The kitchen backsplash features vertical glass tiles instead of horizontal ones. The couple decided on a BlueStar six-burner gas stove with a pot filler and a large double-door fridge/freezer by Frigidaire. Add two Miele dishwashers, a Blanco sink in the island, and another below a window on a side counter, and you have a dinner party just waiting to happen.

Heading into the butler’s pantry, you’ll see more Dekton counters, both in the pantry and in the large mudroom and laundry room, located off the garage. The pantry also has Norelco pull-out shelving, a sink and a coffee area.

Back in the great room, one can’t help but notice the 18-foot ceilings are complemented by the entire dining and living area walls, which are constructed almost

“We end up with a gorgeous view of the lake and the sky with the L-shaped windows. The light is amazing, especially at sunset. I love it here at that time of day. Then in the morning, we wake up to the mirrored surface of Okanagan Lake.”

entirely of glass. Five glass doors lead out to the upper deck, and each can be opened on its own or, since they are joined together, they can be folded into each other. Sixteen transom windows in the great room let even more of the great Okanagan sunshine in.

There’s more on this spacious main floor. To the right of the front entrance sits Cindy’s office, which catches the morning sun. From here, you’ll find a large closet and a powder room for guests, and snuggled away behind that colossal fireplace is the master suite, which happens to be Cindy’s favourite room.

“We end up with a gorgeous view of the lake and the sky with the L-shaped windows,” she says. “The light is amazing, especially at sunset. I love it here at that time of day. Then in the morning, we wake up to the mirrored surface of Okanagan Lake.”

The master en suite has a full soaker tub, a double-headed walkin shower and a separate side room with a toilet and sink. Off that is the master closet complete with shelving.

As we head downstairs, it’s time to see Darryl’s favourite room. It’s not the open-concept family/entertainment room with more gorgeous Okanagan views and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. It’s not the almost-full second kitchen complete with sink, dishwasher and freezer/fridge. It’s also not the two large bedrooms with a full bathroom and steam shower sitting between them. It’s not even the downstairs fireplace, which mirrors the one upstairs, without the towering height.

It’s the electrical and mechanical rooms that Darryl loves, because this home is a techie’s dream come true.

“I have an app that does almost everything in our smart home,” Darryl explains. “I can change the temperature of the floors in each room separately. I can choose lights anywhere in the house and turn them off or on. I can open the garage door for deliveries and close it when they are done. I love that I can see who is at the door without

going to the door. This smart home has it all’ from the control of the blinds, lights, security cameras and alarms, to floor and room temperature and so much more.”

After a tour of the mechanical room, we enter the home gym. It is a huge space and comes complete with Fibrematt flooring. Natural light pours through the windows and there’s another bathroom with a shower right around the corner.

On those days when work has to get done, Darryl simply walks into his lower-level office.

Hands-on from far away

When you plan to build a home in the Okanagan while living in Toronto, you may assume it will be stressful. Darryl and Cindy say there was a little stress, but for the most part, it was easy.

“We’d come out for four or five days and we’d have three to five appointments in a day,” Darryl said.

They give a simultaneous head shake when Cindy brings up the day they went to Wolseley Plumbing to pick out sinks and plumbing fixtures.

“We have 14 sinks,” Darryl says, “and we had to pick out every one of them.”

“Then there were the faucets,” Cindy adds. “Each one was accompanied by a question like what kind of finish we wanted. Near the end of picking out sinks, we just told them to pick anything, we were done!”

Darryl, the gadget-loving owner, admits that much of the stress was relieved due to their Buildertrend app. “We knew when everything was being scheduled. All the materials were listed on it, as well as the architectural drawings. If we needed information, we just went to the app.”

Asked why they chose Destination Homes as their builder, both smile.

“Travis from Destination Homes was better than great to work with,” Darryl says. “You could tell he cared. He treated our home like it was his own. He’d drop by just to check in to see how things were going.”

Describing how they found Destination Homes, Cindy says, “We went to Lakeshore to see the open house, but it was after hours. Charlotte, Travis’s partner, told us to come in anyway. They were having a little party for their subcontractors. We felt that if they treated their workers that way, we wanted that too.”

Cindy and Darryl are looking forward to warmer days when they can use their outdoor, in-ground pool.

“We’re looking forward to enjoying the Okanagan summers,” Cindy says. “And all they have to offer.”

SUPPLIER LIST:

Destination Homes

Uprise Design + Drafting

ROBINSON Lighting & Bath

Coast Appliances

Folding Sliding Doors Canada Ltd.

Ply Gem

Smarttech Integration

K2 Stone

Interior Pool & Spa

Wolseley Plumbing

DON DENTON PHOTO

Experience the ultimate in customer service and meticulous attention to detail. At Motor Werke we specialize in maintaining and servicing European and Import vehicles. Our dedicated team of experts goes above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of your visit exceeds expectations. Because you and your vehicle deserve the best.

The Influencers

Meet some of the Okanagan’s top entrepreneurs as they describe who they are behind their public persona.

Denton and Darren Hull

on location at KF Centre for Excellence

Photos by Lia Crowe, Don

Words by Chloe Sjuberg

Shot

Business superstars in the Okanagan include myriad individuals who have their own outside-of-work personalities. We asked Okanagan businesspeople, “Who are you behind your public persona? What would we be surprised to discover about you?” For this “peek behind the curtain,” we photographed members of the Okanagan business community at the new KF Centre for Excellence, home to an aviation museum and conference facility. Located at the Kelowna International Airport, the KF Centre for Excellence is the vision of

KF Aerospace founder Barry Lapointe, who wanted to introduce youth to both the history and the future of aviation. Constructed of wood, concrete and steel, the museum evokes the feeling of an airplane itself, with a taller centre and large rooms—like airplane wings and hangars—on each side. Visitors to the centre will discover restored aircraft, crews working on restorations and various aviation displays. Many thanks to Paula Quinn, Janeth Aranda and staff at the KF Centre for Excellence for their help.

JOURNEY HENKART

People are surprised when they hear I can say the alphabet backwards—and that I started my career at age 12, speaking on international stages and radio and TV shows, including Oprah. I create authentic connections and meaningful conversations through heartbased networking events. I’m a devoted mom, and I met my soulmate on a party cruise in the Bahamas. I live up to my name through travel and helping people on their journey towards cultivating community and relationships that last.

Keynote Speaker, Published Author and Certified Breathwork Facilitator journeyhenkart.com @journeyhenkart

THE COVE LAKESIDE RESORT OUTBACK LAKESIDE VACATION HOMES

Bobby Bissessar

I was born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago. My academic background was in engineering sciences before I switched to hospitality. Growing up, I worked in my mother’s catering business, where I experienced every role from the kitchen to being the banquet leader for events at the official Prime Minister’s Residence. My discerning palate for international food and flavours was born here. Director of Sales and Marketing covelakeside.com / 250-707-1800 outbacklakeside.com / 250-545-5005

PREDATOR RIDGE

Predator Ridge is often referred to as a golf resort, but we are so much more than that. We employ over 325 team members in 13 departments, and only one of those is Golf Operations! We are a land and development company with many amenities— including our restaurant, accommodations, tennis and pickleball facility, and multi-use trails—to complement our growing community of 700 homes. We are driven to be as renowned for all these amenities as we are for golf!

predatorridge.com

Rod Cochrane General Manager

Janine Collard Resort Sales Manager

Brodie Carle Director of Golf

Krista Frasz Director of Human Resources

Carmen Lindsay Director of Lifestyle and Recreation

Claus Larsen Director of Rental Property Management

Michelle Beaudry Digital Marketing Manager

Sanjaya Mangalagama Director of Food and Beverage

JAIME MORGAN COACHING

Jaime Morgan

I am exactly what you see. I am genuine, vulnerable and open, with a keen sense of humour. Authenticity is my superpower and it has allowed me to expand not only my career, but my relationships. I love deeply, I laugh loudly and I have a deep passion for what I do, which embodies so much of who I am.

Divorce and Personal Growth Coach for Women jaimemorgan.com / @thejaimemorgan

THICK AS THIEVES ENTERTAINMENT

Kurt Jory

I have a big family household—I’m a stepfather to three kids and a father to a newborn. Despite owning an entertainment company, I have no musical talent whatsoever. I almost died playing hockey once—I had a skate blade sever my jugular vein and I bled out on the ice. I prefer cold over heat, ice baths over a hot beach, and I would rather be fishing than doing most things!

Owner and Operator denimonthediamond.com

STRIKEPOINT CONSULTING

Terry Armstrong

I have a family-first philosophy—the most important things in my life are my wife Robin, our kids and our new grandson. I have been fortunate to be able to build a great business network over my 41 years here in Kelowna. I enjoy my contract work with GSL Group looking after the luxury suites and advertising at Prospera Place, and my charitable board work with the KGH Foundation, Central Okanagan Food Banks and more. Owner 250-869-9991

Don’t let my outgoing personality fool you. Behind the scenes, I’m a force to be reckoned with when it comes to supporting businesses, brands, and especially my team of booth babes. I’m passionate about helping others achieve their dreams and aspirations, and creating a work culture to set the bar for future leaders. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone succeed and knowing that I played a small part in making it happen.

Ring Leader of the Booth Babes flashandframe.com

FLASH AND FRAME

Laura McCallum

Taia Mugridge

I have found being yourself is difficult for some, but I cannot help but do this for myself. Somehow, my default setting really seems to help others feel comfortable being and accepting themselves! I am grateful that my job allows me to see the progress people make in this every day.

Physician

Brandt Fralick

I am everything you’ve heard, everything you think, and all that’s been said about me… please add some to the story if you wish. But who I am today is not the same as yesterday; I am the evolution of the mistakes, experiences, victories and defeats of my past.

Owner and CEO

Aaron Finn

I’m just a human living a life whose purpose it is to bring people up. I believe I can’t help people live better if I myself am not living my best life—I continuously push my limits and strive for growth, and I push people around me, clients included, to do the same. Live well. Give generously. Brighten up the dark.

Physiotherapist

Haley Williams

I’m a prairie kid trying to embrace the Okanagan lifestyle. I appreciate being pushed outside my comfort zone with all the activities the Okanagan has to offer. I love leading an active and healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally, and sharing that passion with others.

Pharmacy Director

primekelowna.ca / 778-484-4314

AMANTE REAL ESTATE AMANTE TALKS

Francesca Amante

I am a 29-year-old founder, public speaker, Realtor® and coach. Being born after a tragic loss in my family profoundly changed the lens that I see life through, forever. Through this, every day I find gratitude in every breath, every sunrise, beyond the norm. Although I’m only 29, most say I’m an old soul, and I truly believe this is why.

Founder, Public Speaker, Real Estate Agent

francescaamante.com / 250-492-1111

Carlos Alentejano

What you see is what you get! I wear my heart on my sleeve and will tell you about my loves: my wife Renee, our kids, our families, our two Bernese Mountain Dogs, cooking Sunday dinners, golf, soccer and my Portuguese roots. My life, both at home and at work, is all about my belief in building relationships and teams. Together we can accomplish great things.

Chief Operating Officer

troikadevelopments.com

250-869-4945

TROIKA MANAGEMENT CORP.

KELOWNA BMW/MINI KELOWNA Gord Hayes

I don’t think many who know me would be surprised to discover much about my life away from business. My most productive mornings start with the gym—I find solace and personal serenity pushing myself and working out smart but hard. We also enjoy hiking with our two dogs, discovering new local trails and boating on our beautiful lake. Finding balance between business and home life is always easier when your work is also your passion—and I have a passion for nice vehicles.

Managing Director kelownabmw.ca /

250-718-5677

WILD KINGDOM: A SENSUAL SHOP FOR ADULTS Kim

Williams

People are surprised by how normal my private persona is. They tend to create an extreme vision of who I am because of my business, but I’m just another human—I work, play, love my family and dog, and live every day to the fullest, enjoying life and getting great joy and satisfaction from helping people, friends and strangers alike. My true passion is to create a better world.

(And maybe a sexier one, too!)

Owner and CEO sensualkingdom.com

ANALOG COFFEE

KELOWNA DEVILLE COFFEE KELOWNA Jenna Kopperson

I live for customer service, and it is a true passion of mine. I love mentoring the young women I employ on my teams and connecting with everyone who comes into the coffee shops. However, outside of work, I’m a homebody with a passion for cooking and entertaining, camping, fitness, spending time with my family and enjoying the beautiful outdoor lifestyle that the Okanagan is so famous for. Owner analogcoffee.ca / 778-940-4880

@analogcoffeeylw devillecoffee.ca / 778-940-6018

@devillecoffee_kelowna

Melissa Duncan

Living and breathing the renaissance of the craft distilling industry as BC’s original craft distillery can be pretty full on, so when I’m outside the distillery you can often find me horseback riding with my kids or relaxing by the lake with a craft cocktail not far away.

Chief Operating Officer, Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Tyler Dyck

When I’m not fully engaged in making whisky, battling government for sensible liquor policy modernizations, or enjoying a dram with good friends, I get my kicks from trail running with my wife and rascally spaniel, fishing for salmon and dreaming of our next surfing destination.

Chief Executive Officer, Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

President, Craft Distillers Guild of BC President, Canadian Craft Distillers Alliance

okanaganspirits.com

250-549-3120

OKANAGAN SPIRITS CRAFT DISTILLERY

THE GRAZE COMPANY OKANAGAN OKANAGAN BUBBLES & CO.

I am an open book. What you see is what you get! I love to talk, laugh and connect, travel the world and have adventures—I’ve been to 40 countries. I am a lover of fine food and wine, and a next-level dog lover. I adore my two golden retrievers and cherish my friendships and family more than anything. I live between Calgary and Kelowna. Between Graze and Okanagan Bubbles, I’ve made my passions my work in life.

Owner

thegrazecompanyokanagan.com

okanaganbubblesandco.com

/ 250-999-3555

/ 778-400-4872

Sheena Barbour

MARSHALL GROUP OF COMPANIES

Brent Marshall

Behind the businessman is a little kid at heart. I love time with children and racing every type of vehicle on the planet. I live to give to others and appreciate every day on this amazing planet. Every company I own gives a significant amount to charity which gives our team a wonderful purpose every day.

Owner commercialfinders.com / 250-961-5254

IL MERCATO SOCIAL KITCHEN THE LANDING KITCHEN + BAR

We’ve always believed in the idea of food and drinks bringing people together, whether it’s a local craft beer with neighbours on the driveway, a family dinner, or sharing a special bottle of wine with good friends to mark one of life’s important occasions. These are the moments that make life special and bring us together as family, friends and community. We’ve been celebrating life’s special moments since 2019.

ilmercatosocialkitchen.com / 250-707-1183

thelandingkitchenandbar.com / 250-707-1810

LEFT PAGE: Trevor Jones

Founder Julia Jones Founder Rachael Nicholls

Sous Chef, Il Mercato Social Kitchen

RIGHT PAGE: Anthony Banning

General Manager, The Landing Kitchen + Bar

Tristan Gauthier-Reia

Chef de Cuisine, Il Mercato Social Kitchen

Kelley Storey

Chef de Cuisine, The Landing Kitchen + Bar

LOVE IT DENTAL

Dr. Suzanne Degner

Behind my public persona, I am a woman of many passions and interests. I am a very busy mother of four awesome children aged 11 to 19. I am an accomplished cellist (I started playing at age four) and have performed in various youth orchestras and university symphonies. I am an avid slalom water skier and placed second in my age category at the Canadian National Water Ski Championships last year. And, prior to pursuing dentistry, I had a career in nursing. Dentist

loveitdental.ca

778-738-4088

PATTISON MEDIA

Karl Johnston

Although I’ve always worked in radio—I started in news and later went over to the business side—I completely bypassed the music side of the business, which is a good thing because my music IQ is near zero!

General Manager, Okanagan Division beachradiokelowna.ca / 1047thelizard.ca / kelowna10.com / 250-763-1047

ONYX BEAUTY LAB + MAIA MEDICAL AESTHETICS & INJECTABLES ACADEMY

Marissa Dennis

I am an avid traveller. I have backpacked solo through Central America and Southeast Asia; these days I travel mostly with my husband and our good friends. I am a music lover—we have an extensive record collection and I have been to many festivals worldwide. I am a certified yoga teacher and speak conversational French and Spanish. I am a pet mom to a tortoise.

Nurse Practitioner, Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist and Chief Executive Officer onyxbeautylab.com / 250-800-6888 maiapro.com

GO KELOWNA HOMES JUDY LINDSAY OKANAGAN

Julie Stanley

I’m a momma bear who raised my five kids in Dauphin, Manitoba. I’m also a figure competitor.

Realtor®

gokelownahomes.com

Anthony Cohen

I’m a sports fan, a cat dad and a former Triple-A baseball player.

Realtor®

Michal Gook, PREC

I’m a road bike enthusiast and a dad. Something you might be surprised to discover about me is that I studied structural drafting in college.

Realtor®

Blaine

Vernon-Jarvis, PREC

I’m a loving husband and dad. You might be surprised to learn that I went to the Royal Military College of Canada.

Realtor®

MODERN COTTAGE CO.

Mara Smith

I am very passionate about pets and had a career in the veterinary industry prior to opening Modern Cottage Co. Loving all things home decor, it had been my dream to open a boutique for about 10 years! When I’m not helping our wonderful customers decorate their spaces, I’m spending time with my husband Craig and our four fur babies (Maltipoos Kaia and Kali, and kitties Zoey and Milo).

Owner

and

Founder moderncottageco.com / 778-480-4445

THE RECOVERY SPA

Josh Stilborn

As the founder of the spa, I have devoted countless hours to crafting an exceptional wellness experience. Inspired by my own journey of injury recovery and struggle with depression, I have curated a range of treatments that are backed by cutting-edge research and anecdotal evidence, ensuring they are effective, time-efficient and dedicated to advancing the physical and mental well-being of clients. Clients can expect to receive a unique, personalized approach to wellness.

Founder

therecoveryspa.ca / 250-258-9496

Lindsay Stilborn

Josh and I have been fully committed to our business since day one. I’ve been involved in many aspects, from building the spa walls with my dad’s professional help to creating the website. It’s been a labour of love. It is all worth it when we see how we’re able to help our clients with their physical and mental health, from reducing pain to optimizing athletic performance.

Co-Founder

I am a passionate, multidimensional human, friend, mother, business professional and communitarian. While I adore being active in the community, I equally enjoy alone time, getting lost in the mountains and trails, spending time with my family and working on myself. CEO and Creative Director okanaganlifestyle.ca / 250-861-6546

Jaclyn Robertson

Amanda Murray-Helman

I love being at our business! I work hard and enjoy it so much, but at heart I’m an introvert who struggles with anxiety. Helping work is in my heart—before Karat, I worked in mental health in both the Downtown Eastside and Kelowna, and I love that we can give back and recognize these organizations and efforts now. I’m also a mom to a beautiful four-year-old, and raising her to be an authentic and kind human is by far my most important and favourite job.

Administrator and Wholesale Operations

karatchocolate.ca / 236-420-1575

KARAT CHOCOLATE

Julian Helman

I started my business on a very tight budget—I’m talking $400. I live simply and one of my only indulgences is good food. My favourite part about owning a small business is connecting with the Kelowna community, building genuine relationships and providing an inclusive and warm environment for each guest who walks in the door. I am also a fun-loving father and husband and love to nurture my inner child through my work and daily activities.

Chef and Owner

WILDEN GROUP

Martin Blenk

A public persona isn’t really something I bother maintaining. Usually, my sister Karin is the public figure of Wilden, while I’m happy to be the tech nerd, calmly influencing from the background. Having an awesome team also helps keep a low profile. Yet, as fact-based and logic-driven as I may come across, I get utterly sentimental when it comes to dogs. And cats.

Co-Owner

and

CEO wilden.ca / 250-762-2906

ARTFUL REAL ESTATE

Mehrsa Maali, MA, BA, DID

As a Realtor®, art dealer and educator, I donate a portion of my earnings to charities for women, children and artists. Art and design inspire me to create positive change, and my Canadian pride shows in my red and white attire. I support the first women-led revolution with the Persian flag, using my platform to make a difference!

Realtor® mehrsahomes.com / 778-928-7044

CHIC STUDIOS THE CHIC EXPERIENCE

Amy Nicole Cohen

I’ve been in the beauty industry for two decades, starting as a pro makeup artist and studying business in college. I started Chic Studios, a makeup school, in NYC in 2009, and it now has three locations, an online academy and more than 4,000 graduates. I recently launched The Chic Experience, an extension of Chic Studios, into events, conferences and retreats. I’m inspired by travel and people, I love helping others, and my greatest joy is my family.

Founder and CEO

chicstudiosmakeup.com / thechicexperience.ca

@amynicolecohen

Christina Turenne

I am a bit of a contradiction. If you were to ask acquaintances about me, they might describe me as more of a “girly girl.” So, it may surprise some that when I imagine my truest self, I am a tattoo-covered woman sitting in her 1972 Cadillac, listening to classic rock and roll.

Interior Designer

Carla Bond-Fisher

Spirituality is a driving force in my life. It teaches me to practice daily gratitude, the importance of kindness, and to be a good listener, coach and mentor. I share my life experience with others while encouraging them on their journey toward success. It only takes one beacon of light to create a positive ripple effect—this is my legacy.

President and Founder sticksandstones.ca 250-712-9282

STICKS + STONES DESIGN GROUP INC.

MOTOR WERKE INC.

Sophie Steadman

I was born and raised in Bristol, England, and have been in Canada for four years. I moved here mainly for the mountains. I enjoy playing football, skiing, rock climbing, kickboxing and hiking, and I’ve visited 35 countries before the age of 30.

Service Director and Partner

motorwerke.ca / 250-869-0269

Braeden Stacey

I was born and raised in Kelowna, and never found a reason to leave this beautiful place due to my love for the outdoors and having friends and family close by. My fiancée Tina and I spend our time in the backcountry with our dogs Mia and Roni. I also played baseball for 13 years with the Rutland Rockies, and I once pitched a perfect game, winning us first place in a tournament.

Managing Partner

Michelle Bayne

I’m originally Canadian/English but was born and raised in Italy, living there for 18 years. I moved to Kelowna from the UK six years ago with my partner Jack. I love to travel, camp, hike, ski and paddleboard with my dogs Fritz and Marlo. People might be surprised to learn that I have jumped off Bloukrans Bridge, the highest bungee jump bridge in the world.

CAO and Partner

NIKKI FINE ART

Nikki Litowski

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a skilled vocalist. Over the last few years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a vocal coach and producer who has worked with incredible artists, including Alicia Keys. Through our exercises, I’ve enjoyed learning about my voice and discovering the strength in my unique sound. It has been an exciting journey of expression.

Artist nikkifineart.com / 250-575-8036

KF CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE

Paula Quinn

I taught myself to type on a keyboard cut out of a Corn Flakes package because I couldn’t afford to go to school.

I finally got to attend university in my 50s.

Executive Director

kfcentre.ca / 250-863-1198

WESTWOOD FINE CABINETRY

Angie Norman

I am a lifelong learner. I recently went back to school and received my MBA from Western University’s Ivey Business School in 2018. The program took me to Toronto every three weeks for almost two years. It was the experience of a lifetime! When I’m not Angie at Westwood (which has been most of my working life), I am a very proud mom to three fabulous young adults and Gigi to a brand-new baby grandson. They inspire me every day.

President westwoodfinecabinetry.com / 250-860-3900

DETAILS DESIGN INC.

Dena Barabash

I love to create and design…everything, always! I began my design career as an FTD USA certified floral designer, which led into staging and interiors, then communications and marketing, and finally and currently into the magical world of bespoke events and larger corporate event planning and management. With my incredibly talented team at Details Design Inc., we are also able to provide our clients with in-house graphic design, media management and public relations. Owner detailsdesigninc.com / 250-317-7096

BERCUM BUILDERS

Bruce Young

I am someone who enjoys empowering people around me to be the best that they can be. I have lived in the Okanagan for 30 years with my wife and family, and I love all the outdoor adventures that the Okanagan has to offer. I also enjoy a great glass of Okanagan wine with family and friends.

President

bercumbuilders.com / 778-760-3469

LAKESHORE VEIN & AESTHETICS CLINIC

Dr. Janna Bentley

Raised in Kelowna, I spent a decade at university before returning to the beautiful Okanagan. A proud mother of three and wife to an incredible husband, I’m an avid runner and traveller. We recently visited Southern Africa and I fulfilled a 27-year dream of spotting a leopard, having previously explored Eastern Africa in my 20s without success. I really find people fascinating.

Co-Founder/Owner, Medical Director and Physician veinskin.com / 250-860-9919

CITY FURNITURE & APPLIANCES WEST KELOWNA FANNY’S FURNITURE

Both of us are involved with many non-profit organizations in the Okanagan. Giving back is very important for the Kandola family. City Furniture & Appliances has been serving western Canada since 1976 with over 25 locations carrying top brand names in furniture, appliances, mattresses and electronics. Fanny’s Furniture has been furnishing homes in Kelowna since 1984, carrying a variety of Canadian-made solid wood furniture and home decor for every room in your house.

Das Kandola

General Manager and Owner

cityfurniturecanada.com / 250-768-2224

fannysfurniturekelowna.com / 250-868-8444

Ray Kandola

Founder and Owner

THE SWEET SPOT BEAUTY BAR

Lenny Cabrera

I can dance and sing all night long. My friends call me “little jukebox” because as soon as ANY song comes on the radio, I start singing. I tend to be described as the mom of the group because I’m always taking care of the ones I love. I know what I want, and I’m not afraid to go after it. I am also a lawyer, and I presented at the Supreme Court of my home country (Dominican Republic) at age 23.

Founder and CEO thesweetspotkelowna.ca / 778-940-3055

DOAK SHIRREFF LAWYERS LLP

Christy Lovig

In my quest to live in the moment, I’m learning to embrace the Stoic principle of memento mori: “Remember you must die.” When I die, I do not want a bench placed in my honour. As a competitive marathoner and enthusiastic advocate of movement, I rarely sit still, so a commemorative bench would be completely off-brand. Instead, I want a stretching post placed along one of my favourite running trails, with a plaque declaring: “Here paused Christy. Her faith was in movement.”

Lawyer and Partner doakshirreff.com / 250-763-4323

business sense

Glenn Rogers finds the right fit at Marshall’s Home Living

WORDS DAVID WYLIE X PHOTOGRAPHY DON DENTON

Selling beautiful furniture was a business Glenn Rogers could get behind.

He’d seen the value of quality furnishings in staging his own real estate investments in Calgary. It was that background, plus a bit of happenstance, that brought Glenn and Kelowna-based Marshall’s Home Living together in 2022.

Glenn has been involved in buying, selling and investing in businesses for decades, but Marshall’s is his first personal acquisition as president of his company, Reverety Financial Group.

Looking back, he says his fascination with business came early. He grew up in a single-parent household, which he describes as “middle-class at best.”

“We didn’t have a ton of money, but I was always interested in how to make money. There were other kids who had the nice stuff, and it made me curious. It wasn’t [even] to buy a nice car, or anything like that,” he says: it was curiosity more than anything else.

He started working as early as he could, delivering newspapers and flyers. He earned a business degree at the University of Calgary and started working in economics and finance, consulting in the power industry. He worked at an investment bank doing research, and writing buy, sell and hold reports for companies.

He settled in for a decade at the energy and pipeline company Enbridge, undertaking investment review, including buying and selling assets and companies. He looked at everything from potential million-dollar investments into tech start-ups to a billion-dollar new pipeline build.

“I like variety in what I do, and the diversity of projects was fascinating,” he says. “The interesting thing about making good investments is that you have to think differently from everybody else, and you have to be right. You need to know the value of the business and you need to know the price of the business.”

Then illness forced a life change.

In 2016, Glenn left his career to care for his wife, Jacqueline, whose health had been in decline for about a decade. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor and by this time had undergone four brain operations.

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to do with my life. And I watched a lot of Netflix. I read somewhere that losing a spouse early is one of the most stressful things that can happen to somebody.”

After his wife’s death, Glenn made a few moves to get back into the oil and gas sector, but the industry had weakened.

“I didn’t really have a ton of success breaking back into any of the companies, although I did try. At the end of the day, I think my heart was elsewhere,” he says.

In 2020, Glenn started Reverety Financial Group—a financial and investment coaching company. He looked for businesses that he could run with a private equity backer, but nothing solidified.

“I started thinking about what I could buy just myself,” he says, and he began looking at smaller businesses, including operations he didn’t have much expertise in, such as concrete work.

“If you have a really small business, a lot depends on the owner in terms of how you get the stuff done properly. If I was owning a business like that with no understanding of concrete it wouldn’t work very well,” he says.

He eventually looked at a furniture operation in Calgary. Glenn had staged homes during real estate deals and could see a clear value proposition. But that deal fell through.

However, over the summer he was visiting Kelowna and a whim turned into something more.

“Out of curiosity I googled: ‘Businesses for sale in Kelowna.’ Sure enough, Marshall’s was for sale,” he says.

“It was the right size. It had a good reputation within the community. It matched with what I was trying to do. It was in Kelowna, which is a selling feature, and I got excited about the prospect,” he says. “The business had good bones.”

“The interesting thing about making good investments is that you have to think differently from everybody else, and you have to be right. You need to know the value of the business and you need to know the price of the business.”

He closed the deal in May 2022.

A year later, and Glenn is happy with his decision and thrilled with his staff at Marshall’s.

“The people here really try to help give customers great experiences,” he says. “I’ve been blessed. The team is awesome.”

Glenn also remarried last year. He’s been travelling back and forth between the Okanagan and his home in Calgary, where his wife Julia and two sons, aged 15 and 12, live.

He’s working to grow the business and is looking at expansion.

While selling furniture is the part of the business you must get right, Glenn says, there’s lots more to it.

“We don’t just sell nice furniture. We try to support local charities, such as Mamas for Mamas and Kelowna Women’s Shelter,” he says, adding that he’d like to become more involved in the community.

Glenn predicts that Kelowna will grow significantly over the next decade, which is a good thing for a furniture store.

“Come back in 10 years and it will look wildly different,” he says.

However, he adds, it’s also important for the community to have affordable housing, especially for young people.

“We need young people for a vibrant community. If they leave due to cost of living, it’s not a good thing for the community. That’s one of the risks going forward in what is a really nice place to be,” he says.

“Ever since my first wife passed, I’ve asked myself the question: ‘What am I doing here?’ Aside from buying the business, do I have any big goal for a particular role? I still haven’t landed on that. But I’m happy where we’re at, doing what we’re doing right now.”

Take Flight

Boulevard visits the British Columbia Aviation Museum to celebrate the history of aviation in our province alongside spring fashion that gives a nod to a glamorous bygone era. Bomber jackets, travel suits and 1940s glamour will propel you into the season of open horizons and adventures.

STYLING JEN EVANS X PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

Cap-sleeve, wide-leg jumpsuit in bone, by Iris Setlakwe ($495) from Bernstein & Gold; brown sweater vest by Benetton ($68) and vintage leather messenger bag ($58), both from House of Savoy; brown linen jacket by Circolo 1901 ($515) from Bagheera Boutique; Alex loafer shoe in cognac by Vagabond ($230) from Footloose Shoes and scarf and leather suitcase from Magic Friend-Maker (insta @magic.friend.maker).

Knit dress in “Nero” by Lui Jo ($475) from Bernstein & Gold; scarf from Magic Friend-Maker (insta @magic. friend.maker).

Vintage leather pants with suspenders, cap and boots provided by the BC Aviation Museum; top from Magic Friend-Maker (insta @magic.friend.maker).

Gold dress by Roland Mouret ($490) and cream and gold watch by Michael Kors ($115), both from Turnabout Luxury Resale.

Dress by Zara ($85) from House of Savoy ; trench coat by Part Two ($399) from Bagheera Boutique; emerald green shoes by Miz Mooz ($220) and “Jo" earrings in sage by Avu, both from Footloose Shoes; vintage travel bags from Magic FriendMaker (insta @ magic.friend. maker).

Makeup and hair by Jen Clark Model Dani Parkinson

Photographed on location at the BC Aviation Museum. A huge thank you to the museum for graciously hosting our team for the day and introducing us to such a treasure trove of BC history.

Vintage flight suit and boots provided by the BC Aviation Museum; vintage aviator sunglasses ($98) from House of Savoy; scarf from Magic FriendMaker (insta @ magic.friend. maker).

Gear up for travel time

Function, fashion and design team up in these cool travel accessories

WORDS LAURA GOLDSTEIN

Travel is back with a force. Whether your journey involves planes, trains or automobiles, planning a trip is lots of fun. Add in these travel accessories to create a stylish and less frenetic experience. And then? Get packing!

GET ROLLIN’: WITH KID-FRIENDLY CARRY-ONS

In a galaxy not too far away, kids can travel with Grogu (Baby Yoda).

Samsonite Canada, a 100-year-old company that owns American Tourister, sparks imagination with its PVC-free American Tourister Star Wars Kids 18” Upright carryon.

Always the gold standard for reliability and sturdiness, the luggage company entered the competitive kids’ travel market in 2015.

“Our American Tourister Disney Kids Luggage was built to be fun for kids, but also durable to handle real travel,” says Samsonite brand manager Erin Reynolds, from the company’s headquarters in Stratford, Ontario. “It goes through the same testing as our regular adult luggage. We kept the inside simple with a mesh pocket and cross straps, so it is easy to keep track of items inside, but also stays lightweight.”

It’s big enough to hold toys, clothes and a small light saber.

This kids’ carry-on costs $145. SAMSONITE.CA/EN/KIDS-LUGGAGE

WATERPROOF PONCHOS: WHO CAN RESIST A ‘KISS’ IN THE RAIN?

When Dutch entrepreneurs Wessel Buis and his wife Juliska Kiss travelled to Bali, they had to contend with heavy downpours and cheap disposable plastic ponchos to shield them from the rain. That’s when the Rainkiss brand was born.

“The entire concept is to blend sustainable [certified recycled] materials with ethical manufacturing, fashion inspired prints and most of all—fun,” says marketing manager Shane Lakatos, from the Rainkiss studio in Amsterdam. “Our in-house designers are focused on product development, and they consistently challenge manufacturers with new ways to improve our materials and processes,” he explains.

Originating in Latin America, the poncho is basically a square or rectangle of cloth with a hole cut out in the middle for the head.

“A hood, colourful graphic patterns and sleeves were natural additions to the Rainkiss poncho. As we are based in Amsterdam, the cycling capital of the world, it is an essential part of staying dry in the city,” says Lakatos (incidentally, a Canadian born in Ontario).

Recycled PET bottles are flaked, heated and spooled into fabric to create vivid unisex prints for adults and kids that are 100 per cent waterproof. From designs sporting gigantic black polka dots and pink panther animal prints, and names ranging from Disco Dream and Japanese Blossom to Digi Spring Camo, these ponchos might even make people hope for rain. When dry, they fold up into their own convenient carrying case for easy packing.

With a price tag of $86, they ship free to Canada. RAINKISS.COM

APPLE AIRTAG: SOS (SAVE OUR SUITCASE)

Who can forget the airport chaos last summer when the whole world seemingly rushed to travel at the same time? The result: hundreds of pieces of luggage sat marooned in overwhelmed airports.

Apple AirTag to the rescue! Whether attached to a handbag, keychain, backpack, bicycle or another item, AirTag taps into the vast, global Find My app network and can help locate a lost item like luggage, all the while keeping location data private and anonymous with end-to-end encryption.

Small and lightweight, it even has a built-in speaker that plays a sound to locate it. (Or you can ask Siri.) That’s especially helpful for users who are blind or have poor vision. Apple does not suggest attaching AirTag to pets.

It’s available in a variety of colourful accessories, and fashionistas will also be pleased to know that Hermès has partnered with Apple to create an exclusive AirTag Hermès travel tag Bag Charm and Key Ring in Barenia leather. Made in France, it’s etched with the iconic equestrian Hermès Clou de Selle signature.

The AirTag starts at $39. Hermès accessories $449 to $879.

APPLE.COM/CA/AIRTAG/

1

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Contact us BEFORE taking out your existing kitchen.

We will evaluate your kitchen to determine if it can be removed and reused safely.

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We will schedule a date and carefully dismantle your old kitchen and take it away. Leaving a blank canvas for your brand new kitchen.

It really is that easy!

NANOPRESSO: BARISTA ON THE GO

So, you’re climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and suddenly you think, wouldn’t an espresso just hit the spot? Or maybe you’re camping with the family and a shot of espresso is your usual morning wake-up call. You’ll be so glad you packed the Nanopresso, designed by Wacaco.

Built around a patented pumping system, the ergonomic espresso maker is only 6.14 inches tall and weighs just 336 grams. It comes with its own cup, filter basket, brush, carrying pouch, warranty and multi-language instruction book. Easy to use, it works best with finely ground, carefully tamped down coffee. Holding it with two hands, just press to pump.

One caveat: it doesn’t heat water, so you need to find hot water to add to it. After each shot, Nanopresso easily separates for deep cleaning.

RADIUS: A TRAVEL TOOTHBRUSH THAT GIVES YOU SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

Can a toothbrush be sustainable and still have a cool design? That’s a resounding “yes” from Saskia Coleman Foley, the CEO and president of oral care company RADIUS.

Originally founded in 1983 by her architect father, the company is now run by this exuberant product designer, who is on a mission to create toothbrushes that don’t pollute the environment.

“Billions of toothbrushes made of various plastics are thrown away every year and go straight into landfills,” says Coleman Foley from her manufacturing company in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. “All of our toothbrushes are made from up-cycled materials like wood-based resin, coconut shell, hemp and more.”

The 2-in-1 Tour Travel Brush is an ingenious wide, eco-friendly, vegetable-derived-bristles toothbrush with replaceable brush heads that flips easily into its own transparent plant-based travel case. The collapsible design comes in a variety of colours, and tiny holes drain away any water from the bristles.

At $9.95, find them at RADIUS and All Things Being Eco, Chilliwack, BC. ALLTHINGSBEINGECO.CA / MADEBYRADIUS.COM

THE PARLIAMENT WALLET: THE SMART TRAVEL WALLET FOR MEN

Those savvy Dutch designers have done it again. Ekster, based in Amsterdam, has created a collection of men’s wallets, bags and travel gear in vegan, recycled leather made from car windshields or environmentally certified leather.

The Parliament Wallet, available in a variety of sleek colours, holds one to 12 cards and bills, and boasts a patented ejection mechanism that allows credit cards to be fanned out at a touch of a button to protect against skimming.

Every Ekster accessory can be paired with a solar-powered tracking tech card (extra), allowing for two-way ringing to call your wallet from your phone or vice-versa. Cost is $90.

EKSTER.COM

Three years ago, the world seemed to stop turning. Planet Earth was, of course, still spinning steadfastly around, but life as we knew it ceased and, along with it, the global movement of our species. All travel deemed non-essential was prohibited and even as airports slowly started to open up again, many folks were hesitant to hop on a plane. During this time, I wrote a piece entitled “Great Escapes,” whereby I longingly recalled favourite past trips, and some tastes and gastronomic experiences that helped shape those adventures. Two years have since passed, and I have been on a couple of little family getaways, eagerly mind-mapping more adventures to come.

One of my greatest travel delights is in the planning. I tirelessly research the best hidden gems and secret sweet spots, and make sure to include the tried-andtrue mainstays amid spontaneous discoveries. I curate detailed master lists of must-sees, must-dos…and, of course, must-eats. And in the process, I’m given the gift of getting to know my destination a little better before I humbly step foot in these new spaces.

One of the greatest ways to familiarize oneself with places, people and cultures is through cuisine. I am a big advocate of snacking, sipping, dining and tasting one’s way through a town via the most loved local haunts. Prior to a trip, I find it fascinating and fun to look up cherished recipes, enjoying loosely themed meals as I plan, prep and count down to takeoff.

The following recipes represent three places I’ve yet to visit that are at the top of my travel bucket list, and perhaps are on yours too. Even if you’re not visiting any of these countries, the flavours will transport your taste buds as you dine your way around the world without even leaving your kitchen.

Spicy Mezcal Margarita

The word mezcal comes from the Nahuatl word “mexcalli,” which means “oven-cooked agave” and is distinguished by a smoky flavour. Nine Mexican states are particularly popular for the making of mezcal: Durango, Guerrero, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Puebla and San Luis Potosí, and each of these regions produces mezcal with slightly different profiles. While I would be delighted to visit any of these regions, I feel a particular draw to Puebla City for its fascinating cultural landscape and rich culinary history. With that said, a good margarita can be found all across this bright and beautiful country, as can good mezcal. I mix the smoky with spicy by infusing the mezcal with jalapeño, and swap the more commonly used triple sec with fresh-squeezed orange juice. This was first introduced to me by a Mexican chef, and I haven’t gone back to an orange-flavoured liqueur since.

Prep time: 5 minutes (plus infusion time)

Makes 2 margaritas

Ingredients

1 jalapeño, sliced and deseeded

4 oz mezcal

1-2 oz fresh squeezed orange juice

2 oz fresh squeezed lime juice

1 oz agave syrup

1 lime wedge, with a shallow slice down the middle for rimming the glass

½ tsp sea salt

½ tsp chili powder

Optional garnishes of lime and deseeded jalapeño slices

Directions

In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the mezcal, orange juice, lime juice, agave syrup and jalapeño slices. Close the lid and give it a good shake. Store this mix in the fridge for 8 to 12 hours (or less time if you don’t like it too spicy). When ready to enjoy, mix the salt and chili powder and spread it out on a plate. Glide the lime wedge around the rim of two rocks glasses and dip the rims in the salt mix to coat. Fill the glasses halfway with ice cubes, give the mezcal mixture another good shake in the sealed jar, remove the lid, pour it evenly between the two glasses and enjoy!

Moroccan Lamb Tagine

I have long dreamed of getting lost in the bustling marketplaces of Marrakesh, soul searching in the Atlas Mountains, immersing myself in the buzz of Essaouira, and winding my way through the Jardin Majorelle. The breathtaking architecture, cultural eclecticism, rich and dynamic history, and of course mind-blowing, life-changing food, all make the entire country of Morocco a dream destination. And while I fantasyplan a trip, I will continue to make this staple dish in our weeknight dinner rotation, as the warming aromas transport me to this wondrous part of the world.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 2 to 3 hours

Makes about 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

About 2 lbs cubed lamb shoulder (roughly 2-inch chunks)

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

800 ml diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 tbsp paprika

1 tbsp ground ginger

½ tbsp turmeric

2 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2-3 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)

1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (plus more to taste)

1 loose cup dried apricots, cut in half

1 loose cup prunes, cut in half

2 cups broth

2 tbsp honey

¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro and/or parsley to garnish

¼ cup of sliced almonds to garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300 F. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large ceramic pot with a fitted lid (like a Dutch oven) and brown the lamb. Transfer the browned lamb to a plate, and add the onions, as well as a bit more olive oil. Sauté the onions until translucent, then add all the spices and garlic. Continue to cook over a gentle heat for a few more minutes, being mindful not to let the onion or garlic overly brown or burn.

Add in the diced tomatoes and cook for about 10 more minutes, stirring throughout. Add the lamb back to the pot, as well as the broth, apricots, prunes and honey. Give it a good stir, and as soon as you notice a low boil, turn off the heat, cover with a fitted lid, place in the oven, and cook for 2.5 hours or until the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Place the lamb in a tagine or large serving dish and sprinkle on the chopped herbs and sliced almonds. Serve with rice and/or flatbread.

Santorini Fava Bean Dip with Honey Spelt Flatbread

Santorini, and the Greek Islands in general, encompass my ideal vacation spot, either as a romantic getaway or family-friendly trip. The warmth (both temperature and hospitality), the beaches, the winding villages and mind-blowing Mediterranean meals all call to my body, heart and soul. When I’ve spoken to friends who’ve been there and read articles on visiting this region, an enthusiastic “you must order the fava bean dip wherever you go!” seems to be a commonly emphatic statement. Accessing these beans is a touch trifling, so it’s often recommended to make the dip with yellow split peas when Santorini fava aren’t available. Taste-wise, Santorini fava beans are known for having a velvety texture, are sweeter than other fava beans, but are like a yellow split pea. The slow-cooking process with onion and thyme gives this creamy-yet-light dip its depth, especially when dolloped on top of some fresh flatbread, made here with the ancient grain of spelt and honey, both of which would have been choice ingredients of breadmaking in the Mediterranean prior to the global popularization of refined flour and sugar.

EDUCATION.

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PURPOSE.

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For the bean dip:

Prep time: about 5 minutes

Cook time: about an hour

Makes about 2 cups of dip (roughly 4 to 6 servings)

Ingredients

1 cup yellow split peas (or Santorini fava beans if you can get them)

1 onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

5 large thyme sprigs

2 ½ cups water

Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste

The juice of 1 large lemon

Extra virgin olive oil (about ¼ cup)

Optional garnishes: shown here with chopped capers, sun dried tomatoes, mint, parsley, feta cheese, and a sprinkling of paprika.

Directions

Soak the peas/beans in boiling water for 15 minutes. Drain, rinse and set aside.

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Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions until translucent, then add the garlic and continue sautéing until fragrant and slightly golden. Add the soaked peas/beans, thyme, water, about a teaspoon of sea salt and about one quarter of a teaspoon of pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Continue to simmer for 45 minutes or until the peas/beans are tender and all the water has been absorbed. Remove all the thyme twigs and transfer the cooked mix to a blender. Add the lemon juice and remaining olive oil. Puree until smooth, seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste as you go. If you’re finding that it’s not blending well, you can add a little bit of lukewarm water (or even some more olive oil) as needed. Once smooth and creamy, transfer to a bowl, smooth out the top, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with toppings of choice.

*Note: The dip can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. You may notice that once cool it stiffens a bit. To make it smooth and creamy again, transfer back to a blender and mix with small amounts of warm water until you’re happy with the consistency again.

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For the flatbread:

Prep time: about 5 minutes + resting time (about an hour total)

Cooking time: about 2 minutes per flatbread

Makes about 6 to 8 flatbreads

Ingredients

Water

2 tsp active dry yeast

½ tsp honey

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour plus 1 ½ cup spelt flour, mixed together (you may also need a little extra all-purpose flour for dusting)

1 tsp sea salt

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for frying)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of lukewarm water and whisk in the yeast and honey until dissolved, followed by half a cup of the flour blend. Set aside, uncovered, until it begins to bubble slightly (about 15 minutes). Once bubbling, add the salt, olive oil and 2 cups of flour, and stir until all the flour is integrated, and then knead gently for a minute or two. If you’re noticing that the dough is still quite

sticky, add small amounts of flour as you knead, until it’s somewhat moist but springy, and can be formed into a very soft ball. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and set it aside for 30 to 45 minutes. Divide the dough into 6 to 8 pieces and form them into smooth balls. On a lightly dusted surface (you can also do it between two pieces of parchment paper), roll out each ball to 5 inches in diameter and a quarter-inch thick (it helps to lift and turn the dough frequently as you roll so that dough doesn’t stick to your counter too much, and to give it a more even shape).

While rolling out the flatbread, heat a frying pan to medium heat and coat the bottom with a small amount of olive oil. Working with one flatbread at a time, lay a rolled-out flatbread on the pan and fry for 30 seconds, until a couple bubbles start to form. Flip the flatbread over and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on the other side, until large toasted spots appear on the underside. Flip again and cook another 1 to 2 minutes to toast the other side. Transfer to a plate and gently wrap with a kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat until all the flatbreads are cooked. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, and to reheat, place back on a medium-heated pan for 30 seconds on each side.

GRACE CHANGES EVERYTHING

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Southeast Asian Mango Sticky Rice

Although I have been beyond fortunate to visit many amazing places, I have regrettably never travelled to any country in Southeast Asia. My husband, whose father is Vietnamese, sadly hasn’t either, so at the tip-top of our to-do list is a big adventure throughout this stunning and special part of the world, including (but not limited to) Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. Many associate mango sticky rice with Thailand (known there as Khao Niew Mamuang) as it’s a popular dessert and street-food snack throughout the region. This recipe (as well as all offered today) is my own interpretation, an easy home-cooking version, and meant to be enjoyed in the comfort of your own abode as you plan, prep and dream of adventures in far-off places.

Ingredients

Water

1 ½ cups uncooked rice (it works best with sticky or “glutinous” rice, but if you can’t find it, use regular short grain white rice)

1 1⁄3 cup of well stirred coconut milk (full fat)

1⁄3 cup plus 3 tbsp coconut palm sugar (you can use regular sugar, but coconut palm sugar is widely used in Thailand and throughout Southeast Asia and gives it the most exquisitely rich flavour and colour)

¼ tsp salt

1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted lightly

1 large mango, peeled, pitted, and cut into thin slices

Directions

Cook rice as per the instructions on the package. While the rice is cooking, bring 1 cup of coconut milk, 1⁄3 cup of sugar and the salt to a low boil in a small saucepan, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat but keep this mixture warm. Transfer the cooked rice to a bowl and stir in the coconut milk mixture.

Let the rice stand, covered, for 30 minutes or until the coconut milk mixture is fully absorbed (you want it to have a sticky, creamy, yet slightly stiff consistency that would hold shape when formed). Note that the rice may be prepared a couple hours ahead and kept covered at room temperature.

While the rice is standing, use the same small saucepan to slowly boil the remaining one-third cup coconut milk with the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, stirring occasionally until it starts to thicken. Remove from the heat, keep uncovered and let it cool until you get the consistency of caramel sauce. To serve, mold one-half-cup servings of rice onto a plate and artfully arrange the mango beside it. Drizzle with the sauce and sprinkle with the sesame seeds and enjoy!

Yoga Events & Retreats at Predator Ridge, Vernon BC

TASTE GOOD TASTE LAKEHOUSE

TASTE GOOD TASTE

Welcome to Lakehouse Kitchens.

Welcome to Lakehouse Kitchens.

Our new cooking school is perfectly paired with our award-winning retail store–and you!

Our new cooking school is perfectly paired with our award-winning retail store–and you!

Designed by leading local chefs, Lakehouse Kitchens Cooking School serves to educate, delight and entertain foodies of all abilities.

Designed by leading local chefs, Lakehouse Kitchens Cooking School serves to educate, delight and entertain foodies of all abilities.

With a variety of price-points, class styles and themes, students are immersed in the best equipment from Le Creuset, All-Clad, Wusthof, and Breville–with skilled direction from the Okanagan’s top instructors using the freshest local ingredients.

With a variety of price-points, class styles and themes, students are immersed in the best equipment from Le Creuset, All-Clad, Wusthof, and Breville–with skilled direction from the Okanagan’s top instructors using the freshest local ingredients.

Reach out to our booking team for kid’s camps, private events, meetings, corporate events, or custom-designed team building.

Reach out to our booking team for kid’s camps, private events, meetings, corporate events, or custom-designed team building.

info@lakehousekitchens.com

info@lakehousekitchens.com

lakehousehomestore.com/cooking-classes/

lakehousehomestore.com/cooking-classes/

or scan to see current classes

or scan to see current classes

LAKEHOUSE

LAKEHOUSE

Billowing sails and pirate tales

Affluent residents of St. Barts are accustomed to welcoming mega yachts of the rich and famous. Unless you happen to know a billionaire, it’s highly unlikely you’d ever get close to one of these vessels, much less find yourself on the most beautiful boat in the bay.

It’s a topic that comes up repeatedly among the passengers of the SPV Star Flyer, a striking, 16-sail clipper with four towering masts, polished teak trims and enormous white sails. Turning heads from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, it looks like a pirate ship sailed through an eighteenth-century wormhole.

Sailing with the breeze in high comfort is on many a bucket list, especially romantics with a pinch of salt in their veins. When I first board the Star Flyer late afternoon in St. Maarten, it

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takes my breath away. One of three tall ships owned and operated by Sweden’s Star Clippers, my week-long itinerary in the Lesser Antilles promises an adventure both familiar and exotic.

Well-appointed rooms, friendly international staff and a fine buffet are common on most cruise ships. Sallying forth under sail, chasing pirate lore and dropping anchor at small island communities are not.

Born and raised in a landlocked city, salt runs in my blood like integrity in politics. I can’t tell a jib from a topsail, a schooner from a sloop or the spanker from the anchor. Regardless of one’s prior knowledge and appreciation for sailing, everyone goose-bumped when the crew hoisted the sails at sunset. With speakers booming an epic soundtrack of Vangelis’s Conquest of Paradise, the wind thrust us forward in search of rich Caribbean bounty.

The 166-passenger Star Flyer is 115 metres long with a 15-metre-wide beam, and it’s not even the biggest ship in the Star Clipper fleet. The 227-passenger, 42-sail Royal Clipper holds the Guinness World Record as the largest square rigger in service. Both ships rely on the breeze to do the heavy lifting, with low-emission gas used for internal power, port docking and maneuvering through idle doldrums. Fortunately, the wind in the Caribbean from December to April is so reliable you can bank on it, hence, the trade winds. It’s the perfect time to make up the leeway, learn your sailing lingo and discover wild legends among the beaches and coconut trees.

Calling into Anguilla, St. Kitts, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and St. Barts, I’m sailing into a domain of buried treasure, mythical pirates and sloop battles. Borrowing books from the ship’s library, I dive into the Golden Age of Piracy, when motley crews of

men—and occasionally women—plundered trade and war ships, all the while swearing impressive oaths of loyalty, democracy and non-discrimination, welcoming all who could be useful, and evenly distributing the spoils. The intrigue of pirates has long hijacked our popular imagination, the Black Flag inspiring countless legends in the Caribbean, including that of a buried treasure hidden deep inside the coastal caves of the uninhabited Norman Island.

Here, the Star Flyer dropped anchor so passengers could snorkel into the same caves that inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. The more I read about Henry Morgan and Calico Jack, Anne Bonny and the infamous Blackbeard, the more I get swept up in the region’s history, and the thrill of sailing under wind.

Operating a tall ship is both an art and a skill. Experienced passengers on board constantly debate our Polish captain’s decisions, analyzing the different sails in use, and the impact of the prevailing winds. With 3,344 square metres of sail, utilizing all four masts could easily blow us halfway around the world. The captain tells me that he often sails up and down during the night, providing invaluable experience for his navigation and ship crew, and using just 15 per cent of the fuel typically needed for a ship of this size. Cruising anywhere in modern luxury is a decadent affair, but with its comparatively low carbon footprint, large passenger sailboats like the Star Flyer suggest a more viable and sustainable cruising alternative.

When we dock in St. Kitts, I see a lineup of massive cruise ships docked outside a duty-free shopping mall. It’s the only time our vastly different cruise experiences meet, and it feels like we’re visiting from a different planet.

Occasionally, the wind howls over 25 knots, creating large swells that rock and roll the ship, stabilizers be damned. Sometimes, I reach for the Gravol or need to retreat to my comfortable cabin on the Commodore Deck, watching sea water rinse my cabin window. More often, the sea is as calm as a mirror, but sailing will always be an adventure, especially for landlubbers lacking sea legs.

Seventy-three international staff and crew operate efficiently under any conditions, spotlessly cleaning our rooms and preparing fantastic meals, cocktails and evening entertainment. There’s pirate parties and trivia nights, disco dancing and interpretive talks. Daily activities include swimming and snorkelling, various water sports, an on-board spa and opportunities to explore the history and culture of different islands.

Tenders deposit us on quiet beaches that are home to some of the Caribbean’s legendary sailing bars, like Soper’s Hole on Tortola and the Soggy Dollar on Jost Van Dyke. My personal highlight is a visit to Virgin Gorda’s The Baths—a series of rock pools, beaches and cave swims in the turquoise water of your dreams. Being on a smaller vessel with a minimal footprint means we can visit and interact with beaches and communities beyond the reach of giant cruise ships. My dining mates, a couple from Toronto, are cruise veterans with dozens of voyages under their belt. Both agree the tall ship had exceeded their expectations, with just the right combination of adventure and comfort.

Embracing the warm sea breeze, I stretch my arms towards a pod of dolphins cresting a few metres beneath me. I’m lying on the netted bowsprit at the fore of the ship, my favourite spot on the Flyer to soak it all in. It’s a giant hammock, of sorts, meeting the sea breeze and ocean

SPRINGFIELD ROAD

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spray head-on. I often lie back on the thick net to admire the clouds, or zone out staring at the waves. That’s when the dolphins appeared, gliding playfully in front of the bow, providing another singular moment of joy in a week of many.

Admittedly, not all passengers have the nerve to hang out at the bowsprit, much less take up the ship’s offer to scale the mainmast. Securely kitted with a safety harness, I climbed the rope ladder to a viewing platform 18 metres above the sparkling water. It provides a priceless and occasionally knee-shaking, bird’s-eye view of the ship, sea, islands and sparkling horizon.

Although travelling alone, I quickly find my crew of fellow bowspritters and mast-climbers. Spanning six decades of age, I gathered with my group to enjoy fine cocktails, fun company and tall tales at the Tropical Bar. No matter what boat you sail in, it’s the people you meet who create the paradise you find.

Reliably gorgeous sunsets and epic sail-aways are greeted each evening with champagne, cocktails and quirky maritime toasts suggested in the daily program.

An unannounced wedding takes place on the sun deck one evening, and the entire ship celebrates. Small ships just have that kind of vibe.

Later, we’re invited to follow the cruise tradition of dressing in white to sail the warm breeze under the spotlight of a full moon. Naturally recalibrating my balance with one hand steadied on the ship, I’d found my sea legs at last.

Everything moves a little slower under sail. Although the internet is available at the bar, it is pricey and limited. Most passengers agree that screens can wait. Sailing on a tall ship is about reading and resting, conversations and stargazing, staring into the distance, and wondering why it took you so long.

When we anchored in St. Barts, it was a thrill to find ourselves on the most impressive ship in the harbour, and nobody needed a personal invitation from a billionaire either. Any way the wind blows, it’s reassuring to know we can all find our own swashbuckling sailing adventure.

Well-appointed rooms, friendly international staff and a fine buffet are common on most cruise ships. Sallying forth under sail, chasing pirate lore and dropping anchor at small island communities are not.

secrets and lives — AND THE 7 SINS with SUZANNE DEGNER

WORDS ANGELA COWAN PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE

When Suzanne Degner moved her dental practice to Kelowna last September, it was an opportunity for her to not only become her own boss, but to build her professional life around the one thing that’s always been most important to her: love.

Edmonton-born and -raised, Suzanne spent her career in Alberta as an associate dentist, honing her craft while the clinic owners took care of the business end of things. But during the pandemic, things began to shift.

“It started during COVID. I’ve been a dentist for 20 years, but always working for other people,” she says. “Living in Edmonton and suddenly not being able to travel anywhere, and working for an office where I had been long-term, but growing increasingly frustrated by the situation there, I thought, it’s time to open my own business.

“Kelowna has always been on my radar as a place I wanted to end up,” she explains. “We’d visit on family vacations when I was a child, and I thought it was a beautiful place. Even as a child I thought that it’d be a nice place to live someday, and I made this my someday.”

Opening Love It Dental, Suzanne—who’d had a career in nursing prior to dentistry—was able to design her clinic space, her staff and her patient care in a way that nurtures and comforts everyone who comes through her door.

“To have that nursing background has been an amazing complement for this profession,” she says. “I can add a level of compassion and warmth. There are a lot of people out there who have so many dental horror stories, and they’re hard traumas to get past. But with each additional good experience, those bad ones start to go away.”

With individual treatment rooms offering privacy and good music and television, a caring and talented support team, a high investment in the newest dental technology and a care-centred approach, Love It Dental has become exactly what Suzanne had hoped.

“I’m excited to be living here. And I’m excited to finally own my own business, and to look after people the way I was always meant to.”

The 7 Sins

ENVY:

Whose shoes would you like to walk in?

I am pretty happy being me and I enjoy walking in my own shoes most of the time. I do think it would be cool to walk in Arlene Dickinson’s shoes for a while, though. The woman is seriously awesome in so many ways. She’s an incredibly successful entrepreneur and savvy businesswoman, plus she is a mother of four, a gorgeous woman and a beautiful human being.

GLUTTONY:

What is the food you could eat over and over again?

Pasta. Definitely pasta. And really great bread dipped in super high-quality olive oil. And red wine. Isn’t that a food? I’m pretty sure it is.

GREED:

You’re given $1 million that you have to spend selfishly. What would you spend it on?

I’m not really one for selfishness or greed, but if I had to spend this money, then I would absolutely pause my regular life and travel around the world with my four amazing children for an entire year. I would love to experience new cultures and places and do incredible activities like hiking, cycling and water sports all over the globe, as well as taste all of the fantastic food and drinks, of course. I would use this money to have an amazing adventure and build incredible and lasting memories with my kids.

WRATH:

Pet peeves?

Well, I have a few: passive-aggressive personalities, rudeness, lack of manners or common courtesy, and laziness.

SLOTH:

Where would you spend a long time doing nothing?

This is a tough one for me because I really can’t imagine doing nothing. However, I could picture myself on a beach somewhere—anywhere—with the sun on my skin and the sand on my toes, and an ice-cold drink in my hand while I watch the water and the waves. Wow, that sounds awesome. Take me away.

PRIDE:

What is the one thing you’re secretly proud of?

I am pretty proud and excited to be a nationally ranked slalom water skier, and to have come second place in my age category in the Canadian Water Ski Championships last year.

LUST:

What makes your heart beat faster?

Love is what makes my heart beat faster. I named my dental practice Love It Dental because I am driven by love and passionate about what I do. I am determined to spread more love in the world and to make real and meaningful connections with other people in this life. When I can turn a dreaded dental visit into a great experience and make a lasting relationship through connection, compassion and love, my heart soars. Also, my entertaining kids and sweet chocolate lab always make my heart beat faster.

SWEAT LODGE: THE OLDEST CHURCH ON EARTH

My eyes were wide open, but it was utterly black with not the tiniest sliver of light. And it was intensely hot. Drums pounded, reverberating like the heartbeat of some giant beast. Then a deep guttural voice started singing in unknown words.

This was far from the golf I had come to play at Talking Rock Golf, Quaaout Lodge’s championship course beside Little Shuswap Lake near Chase, BC. The Little Shuswap Indian band owns and operates the resort.

Last night I met Ernie, an Elder with a creased leathery face and long grey hair in a ponytail. Beating a drum, he sang an Indigenous song of welcome and then said, “I want you to join us in a sweat. We can’t expect white people to understand us unless you experience our traditions.”

I hesitated in accepting. After all, my goal was to lower my handicap. But I agreed to join them.

The morning arrived, and there were three now: Ernie; Chief Felix, a slim dark-haired man with a shy manner; and Denny, a Cree man. After changing into swimming trunks, we crawled through a narrow tunnel into the sweat lodge, a circular pit house about 10 feet in diameter and four feet high with a fire in the centre. Sitting on skins, we leaned against cedar walls.

“Welcome to the oldest church on Earth,” said Ernie. “Today is a prayer sweat.”

An infrequent church-goer, I hoped it would finish in time to squeeze in 18 holes. Denny brought in six red-hot rocks and darkness settled over us.

Chief Felix explained, “These rocks represent the four quadrants of Earth.”

He sprinkled sage on the rocks and an earthy aroma drifted over us. He thanked the rocks and splashed water on them.

As the temperature rose, he spoke confidently from the darkness: “In the sweat we are all equals. We must open up our minds and seek ways to become closer with the Earth and all those around us.

“We will go around the stones four times. First, we will pray for ourselves. On the second round we will pray for women. Then for men and finally to give thanks.”

He started by praying to the Creator to make him a better person and to give him wisdom in guiding his people.

Although I sat just a few feet from the others, in the blackness I felt a thousand miles removed. And it was so different from the ritual of any church I had ever attended.

Elder Ernie was next and he spoke of his youth in residential school and how his anger toward the white man led him to alcohol

and drugs. He thanked the Creator for releasing him from addiction and prayed the Creator would channel goodness through his heart. Then he spoke in his ancestral tongue and sang in a deep bass tone while beating his drum. Denny’s drum joined in, and the small space echoed with loud thumping.

It was my turn. At first it was difficult, but the darkness was comforting. I recognized that I am a driven person, always needing to keep busy. I don’t spend enough time with family and friends. The sweat was taking me down paths I normally never tread.

As I spoke, my thoughts began to pour forth. I described a friend who suffers from depression. I asked the Creator to offer him compassion, and to make me slow down and take time to support him.

Denny brought in six more hot rocks, and it became even hotter. After the second round of prayers, we took a break and crawled out, moving clockwise around the fire pit. Outside, the glaring sun made us shield our eyes. After a quick plunge into the cool lake, we re-entered the blackness.

The chief prayed for two women, one who is addicted to drugs and alcohol and the other who is single with three children. The prayers of my companions reflected the Indigenous philosophy of kindness and closeness to mother Earth.

It was my turn again. It was painful but I forced myself to speak of my mother who passed away at age 57 from a cancerous lung. I owe her so much and so much was left unsaid. I spoke of a lady friend who is a closet alcoholic. What demons chase her? Drums beat and echoed in the small space. Thoughts that had long gathered dust skittered around in my mind.

Sweat trickled into my eyes and down my back. Occasionally, we passed a wooden bucket of water from one to another, clumsily, like blind men. Splashing water on my head brought momentary relief. Drums pounded and echoed.

A fresh round of prayers began. I spoke of a young relative who has an anger problem that is threatening his marriage. Where does his anger come from? My companions gave thanks to social workers, friends and the police who play important roles in their community.

My invisible companions and I were from different societies, but in the darkness we were together as one. Yesterday we were strangers, but now I was sharing confidences with them that I had never discussed with anyone else. Their church has an awesome power.

The chief closed the ceremony with “All my relations.”

As we emerged, I felt cleansed and rejuvenated. I strode past the golf course without a glance. I needed to call my wife and children and tell them I loved them.

It was my turn. At first it was difficult, but the darkness was comforting. I recognized that I am a driven person, always needing to keep busy. I don’t spend enough time with family and friends. The sweat was taking me down paths I normally never tread.

Boulevard’s fashion team members were like kids in a candy store as they delved into the incredible collection of aircraft and artifacts at the BC Aviation Museum, located on the grounds of the Victoria International Airport at 1910 Norseman Road. Treated to a backdrop of beautifully restored candy-red and bumblebeeyellow aircraft, the team also had the opportunity to view a collection of aviation-related clothing and uniforms, including a First World War air force jacket belonging to a former Victoria high school student, Second World War jackets and flight suits, vintage stewardess uniforms from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, and a plethora of retro pillbox hats, helmets, leather caps and vintage goggles. As lovers of fashion, the team could have spent a whole day “oohing” and “aahing” over these pieces, which are under the care of Michelle Harris, a museum volunteer tasked with preserving this incredible collection. Each beloved aircraft has a story, a past and a purpose. It was an honour to photograph our feature among some of BC’s most treasured history.

behind the story

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

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