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2 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
Contents
From the editor | Dona Sturmanis
Regular Features Editor’s Message Past President’s Message OMRA Directors List Mayor’s Message In the Works
SUMPTUOUS SUMMER
3 4 5 8 12
Special Features Sue Goodwin
6
Community mover and shaker.
Three of our city councillors share the Summer is here and it looks like it’s going to be a good one! There is no better personal passions behind their politics. You also will discover the opportuniplace to celebrate it than the Okanagan, ties for daycare that exist in the Okanagan and in particular, the Okanagan Mission Mission. with its abundance of parks and natural And don’t forget the opportunity to spaces. This issue of the Review is a particularly participate in the Terry Fox Run coming up in September to help raise funds for informative one, starting with Ron Hallick’s explanation of the Kelowna election cancer research. Lisa Worman, cancer survivor and a member of system and the importance of Terry’s Team, tells her story the Okanagan Mission retainand invites you to participate ing its historic name. this September. We also profile Sue GoodAnd speaking again of sumwin, who has been a vital mer, find out all about how member of the Okanagan your family can enjoy the Park Mission Residents’ Associa& Play program taking place tion for many years as well as in various neighbourhoods other community groups. over the coming months. Mayor Sharon Shepherd Yum! And finally, discover brings us up to date on city how you can enjoy one of the activities and progress. Deanna season’s favourite fruits, strawberries. I’m Merrick reports on the welcome addition sipping a strawberry smoothie now.... of commercial services to Kettle Valley. Dona Sturmanis, Len McFarlane discusses the implications Editor of the new Lakeshore Bridge design. The material contained within this newsmagazine does not necessarily reflect the views of the OMRA Board of Directors. It is for information purposes only and, while it cannot be guaranteed, it was obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Publisher: Len McFarlane for the Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association
Extra copies of this publication are available at the Okanagan Mission Library while supplies last. This and archived editions are available for download at www.omra.ca
Kettle Valley Business
10
Politics and Passions
14
Daycare
17
Terry Fox Run
18
Park & Play
21
In the Kitchen
22
Community gets deserving new amenities. Three councillors share their secrets. Care for your kids in Okanagan Mission. Participate to help raise funds for cancer research. A special family fun program. The delights of sumptuous strawberries.
Cover photo by Suzanne LeStage Story on page 21.
Please direct all advertising inquiries to Mr. Robin Tracy at 250-764-3141. E-mail: rmdtracy@shaw.ca Fall newsmagazine deadline August 15
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 3
Illustration by: Len McFarlane
Past President’s Report | Ron Hallick
A ward system could have representatives in distinctive historical regions.
North Glenmore
Rutland
Glenmore Valley
AMALGAMATION AND CORRECT NAMES Looking at a Ward System
The Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association has been involved with the other associations of the amalgamation when issues arise which can impact the entire city. Recent examples were the Simpson Covenant issue and the Cedar Avenue Park proposal. At our last board meeting the subject of local electoral reform was discussed. The current civic election format is the at-large system in which all Kelowna residents vote for mayor and eight councillors. Another option which is just as prevalent in cities across the province is the ward system. The nearest example to Kelowna which utilizes the ward system is Lake Country. In a ward system, cities, especially ones involving large land areas and differing topographies, would be divided into separate and distinct regions and assigned representatives on city council. In Kelowna this may translate into traditional regions such as Glenmore Valley, South and East Kelowna, Rutland, and Okanagan Mission, etc., all partners in the amalgamation of 1972, having a specific representative on council. As it is now with the at-large system, each distinctive area could, and often is, left without a councillor elected from that specific area of the city. Furthermore, any councillor elected who lives in any specific area of the city is under no obligation to
East Kelowna Central
South Central South Kelowna speak towards that area’s specific needs or concerns. Taking into Okanagan Mission consideration the geographic size of Kelowna, which reaches from the south of Okanagan Mission to the district of Lake Country, Okanagan Mission or “Mission” This map is for general information only. The City of Kelowna does not guarantee its accuracy. All information should be v and the history of the 1972 amalgamation The Official Community Plan (OCP) involving nine municipalities which now review is now nearly complete. In May a comprise the City of Kelowna, this option public hearing took place at which time promises to allow for more equitable city council had an opportunity to hear governance. from the public with regards to their It would also preserve the history and concerns of the text of the revised OCP. A identity of these valuable participants representative from OMRA spoke of the within the amalgamated city of Kelowna. imperative use of “Okanagan Mission” Indeed, Mayor Sharon Shepherd first put within the text of the Official Community this idea forward as a method towards Plan. improved governance and a means to Within previous community plans increase voter interest within the entire and also sector plans, such as the Southcity, which has been merely 20 per cent of west Okanagan Mission Sector Plan, our eligible voters. historic name has been used correctly. With this in mind, the board of direcHowever, within the text of the new tors of OMRA will be inviting representadraft of the OCP the name “Mission” is tives of the other residents’ associations exclusively used. The association has no within the city to discuss this idea, and to intention of allowing our proper name to ascertain if there is the will to make this become officially debased in this fashion. idea a political initiative. If this is the case, We insisted that our community name be Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association properly used within the entire text of the may have the opportunity to reform civic OCP. We have long recognized the fact politics in Kelowna. that our historic boundaries and our name
4 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
are vital to developing and maintaining a community identity and a sense of place, which is of paramount importance regarding our political presence within the city. We will approach council with the premise that this is simply an oversight which needs to be corrected. Should there be any unforeseen difficulties achieving this correction, our readers and those involved with our political action list, will be asked for your community support. Our name dates back to pre-European involvement. The Okanagan First Nations referred to the mouth of Mission Creek
Courtesy of Kelowna Museum Archives
Our residents’ association is active in Kelowna governance and area pride.
The Okanagan Mission name is proudly painted on the roof of the boat house on Okanagan Mission wharf in the 1920s.
and the surrounding area as N’Whaquisten, meaning a stone found there for shaping weapons of the chase and of war. When the Fur Brigade roved up and down the Valley, the name commonly used was the French name L’Anse au Sable or in English, The Cove of Sand. Father Pandosy did use this name in his letters home to France. Following the establishment of the Father Pandosy Mission, the common Anglicized name used was Okanagan
Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association Membership PO Box 29138, Kelowna BC, V1W 4A7
email: letters@omra.ca
www.omra.ca
Anyone living in Okanagan Mission who makes a minimum donation of $10.00 to the Association will become a member as long as the member remains living in Okanagan Mission.
Mission Valley. It was the first European settlement in the Okanagan Valley, including the United States section. Okanagan Mission Valley predates the founding of Kelowna by over three decades. We have a tremendous history and a wonderful name. For the well-being of the community, we, the residents, must not take our beautiful location or our historic name for granted. Okanagan Mission. Say it with pride.
OMRA Directors 2010 - 2011 President Kerry Lomax
250-764-8892
Past President Ron Hallick
250-764-8697
Address:
Vice President Mark Ranger
250-764-7187
Postal Code:
Treasurer Peter Pugsley
250-764-7672
Directors Ron Erickson Mark Thompson Wayne Wolfe
250-764-3217 250-764-9357 250-764-6430
Name:
Phone: E-mail:
I would consider becoming a director of OMRA
Current Membership = 479 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 5
Photos contributed
Community Report | by Deanna Merrick
sue goodwin “We call ourselves “lifestyle refugees”.
Even as a teenager, Sue Goodwin yearned for a life that was rich in experience. After learning that British students take a ‘gap year’ after they graduate, she decided to take one of her own. The rationale behind a gap year is to give students a year off between graduating from high school and beginning their university education, in order to experience other places and have an adventure or two before settling down to the serious business of life. Sue liked that idea and soon found herself living in a Norwegian home in London, England, while working at a hotel. Goodwin obtained her B.A. at the University of Winnipeg in 1981. She went
A fashionable 18 year old in London, England.
Sue, Kevin (2) and Scott (3) crossing the Kootenay River
on to earn on their way to their new home in August 1997. her comdedicated to building the first playground munications and advertising accredited in the Kettle Valley community. That professional (CAAP) designation. Living playground later succumbed to the tragic in Toronto, she then launched a very fire of 2003, which wreaked a great deal of successful career in advertising, marketing and public relations. By 1985 she was damage in Okanagan Mission. Goodwin then became an integral part of the Cedar a partner in a vibrant advertising and PR Creek Board, investigating the possibility agency, a position she held until she and of a satellite recreation centre for the City her husband, Glen McBurnie, moved to of Kelowna. Kelowna over a decade later. Those experiences led her to a position Like many Kelowna residents, Goodwin as editor of the Okanagan Mission Review. and her husband first encountered the She also spent nearly a decade on the Okanagan during one of her many crossboard of The Okanagan Mission Residents’ Canada trips. They moved to Kelowna in Association. 1997 when their two boys were just two “The OMRA is often held up by and three years old. Kelowna’s mayor as a dynamic example “We call ourselves ‘lifestyle refufor other community organizations,” gees,’” she laughs. Sue is not just a ‘doer.’ She is also a Goodwin says. With seemingly endless energy, Sue strategic thinker, a planner and a very also became involved in the Citizens for popular addition to a number of nonprofit boards in the Okanagan Mission Responsible Growth and the Board of the Rotary Centre for the Arts (RCA). The and throughout the city. She’s taken this approach to life ever since moving RCA’s six-year commitment ends this September, but Goodwin already has to Kelowna, and our city has reaped her sights set on a new and promising the rewards from her efforts. venture. “From the moment I arrived, I Her latest venture is as a member of wanted to get involved in the community. I thought that was a good way the steering committee for the St. Paul’s to find out about Kelowna and to give United Church Sanctuary in Okanagan back to the community we’d chosen,” Mission, an exciting and progressive longterm development plan for the property Goodwin explains. where the United Church now stands. Early on, she became involved Not only will a new church reside on in the Quilchena Park Project, a group
6 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
Photo: Len McFarlane
Paying It Forward...Again and Again.
the site, but there will also be a six floor multi level building designed to include commercial and office space, parking and seniors’ residential housing. The group is also looking at unique financing opportunities for the seniors who might call this new development home. Along with all of her high level volunteer commitments and family responsibilities (her two sons are now active teens), Sue still finds time to operate her own business, Goodwin Marketing Communi-
The Goodwin/McBurnie family today. From left; Scott (17), Glen, Sue and Kevin (16).
cations. She brings her extensive career background and volunteer experience to a wide range of services including branding, strategic planning, media research and planning, copy writing, brochure production and special event co-ordination. Goodwin sums up her own personal philosophy best: “The one thing I’ve learned throughout everything I’ve done, is to always give
something back. Help others or mentor. I was given a lot of opportunities. It is very important to pay it forward. That is why I stay involved.” The OMRA board of directors is very grateful to Sue for her dedication and commitment to the work of the association. - Kerry Lomax (President)
To advertise in The Review please contact Mr. Robin Tracy. 250-764-3141 rmdtracy@shaw.ca
Summer Reading Club 2011 at Mission Library Savour Each Word is this year’s theme for Summer Reading Club for children 5-12 or who have been in kindergarten, and Summer Preschool Reading Program for 2-5 year olds, with programs, contests, weekly book draws, and family storytimes! • Ali K. Zam .
• The Buzz about Bees • Manga Mania
Voted best place to eat and hear live music!
• Drum Drama! • Discover the Stars
June 27 Ray Bonneville July 4 & 5 Zappacosta July 12 & 13 Hapa August 2 The Twisters Sept. 20 Roxanne Potvin
In-person registration is now available for these programs in July and August For more information, contact 250-764-2254 www.orl.bc.ca/branches/mission Mission Library • Capital News Centre • 4105 Gordon Drive
250-764-2301 4638 Lakeshore Road www.minstrelcafe.com
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 7
A quarterly message from the Mayor
City Council Contact List Good communication with people can make a difference in the way you live in your community. Similarly, the following people know that in order to vote on matters in your best interest they must hear from you.
SPRING INTO SUMMER Kelowna Mayor Sharon Shepherd
Mayor Sharon Shepherd 250-469-8980 jjohnston@kelowna.ca
Councillor André Blanleil 250-862-0592 ablanleil@andres1.com
Councillor Kevin Craig 250-448-1490 kevin@kevincraig.ca
Councillor Robert Hobson 250-868-5224 rhobson@cord.bc.ca
Councillor Charlie Hodge 250-575-1674 chodge@kelowna.ca
Councillor Graeme James 250-575-9424 gjames@kelowna.ca
Councillor Angela Reid-Nagy 250-215-7714 areid@kelowna.ca
Councillor Michele Rule 250-762-3749 mrule@kelowna.ca
Councillor Luke Stack 250-878-4990 lstack@kelowna.ca
Mayor and Council
mayorandcouncil@kelowna.ca
Summer has finally arrived although I’ve heard that many of the plants are about two weeks behind a normal season. Our community sure does love the warmth as our parks and multi-purpose pathways fill up with walkers, bikers and roller bladers as soon as that sun appears. Plan Received Public Input
Dehart Community Concept Plan has been received by council with construction occurring likely in a phased approach and dependent on funding and partnership opportunities. It is located on DeHart between Gordon Drive and the Fire Station. The public consultation included students from Anne McClymont Elementary and Okanagan Mission High School and members of the Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association and Okanagan Mission Community Hall Board as well as two public workshops and an open house. Park construction is estimated at about 3.77 million dollars. The objectives include safety, accessibility, flexibility, creating a park with a strong sense of place, integration of public art reflecting the neighbourhood, and creating a safe environment for youth. There has been a long list of potential uses identified and I encourage all of you to look at the concept plan and design at www.kelowna.ca/CM/Page2712.aspx.
Library Kudos
Our Okanagan Regional Library 8 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
recently celebrated 75 years of service on March 19, 2011. In 2010 the total visits to the Okanagan Mission branch were 118,772, which is about 2,329 per week. Computer workstations, wireless access, and many programs such as story times and author visits are some of the usages by our citizens. A special thank you to the Kelowna Friends of the Library who raise funds through the ongoing book sales to support extra programs and special equipment. Genealogical research is now enhanced at the Kelowna downtown branch as a result of the fundraising funds purchasing a digital reader and printer. Water Smart
As we strive to reach the goals of the City of Kelowna’s Water Sustainability Action Plan, there has been a new bylaw introduced for water regulation. This is specifically targeting landscape and irrigation performance standards with the goal to reduce outdoor water use by 15% to 30% while maintaining attractive landscapes. A water efficiency brochure has been produced and the Water Smart program staff will be the contact for providing information or doing field visits. Specifications for landscaping and irrigation will soon be integrated into the engineering standards bylaw. Also, design guidelines for multi-family, industrial and commercial land uses will likely be integrated into the development permit process. Remember,
Photo: Len McFarlane
Plan meetings, library congrats and lots of green activity.
a beautiful demonstration of xeriscape (low water use) plants is available at the front of the H20 Aquatic and Fitness Centre. Budget Overrun
Unfortunately the preliminary budget at 2.05% came in at 2.47% for final budget because of some unexpected additional costs. Copper wiring has been stolen from the power poles throughout the community and the development assessment costs came in slightly lower than at original budget. There are still many exciting initiatives taking place this year including the downtown charette, Central Green (old KSS site) rezoning, Parkinson senior centre addition, and final planning for Bernard Avenue revitalization. Landfill Tipping Fee Waiver
If any of you belong to a not-for-profit organization that is involved in the diversion of recyclable materials there is a new landfill tipping fee waiver available to recognize the benefit of all the materials that are not brought to the landfill. This includes those groups and organizations that help to beautify our surroundings by cleaning up litter and illegally dumped garbage on publicly owned land. The waiver is to provide a consistent approach and cover that portion of the waste from these groups that cannot be recycled. Art and Garden
The Communities in Bloom and Public Art committees are supporting the continuation of the Leon Avenue Art Project for art banners to be placed in the 200 block
Three generations of the Cocarell Family enjoy an afternoon together at their garden plot; one of 50 at the Mission Sports Field Complex.
of Leon similar to the 400 block. A garden tour is being planned this year with funds going to various community garden efforts throughout the community. Did you know there are 50 new community garden plots being installed at the Mission Sports Field Complex? A Beauty Spot program is being expanded to include “You’ve Been Spotted” component to encourage continued tidiness and beautification. Green Thumb Awards will continue this year and the garden tour took place on Saturday, June 18th. Greening Meeting
The Official Community Plan (OCP), “Greening Our Future-2030,” had a public hearing on May 24th and was well attended. The Central Green (KSS) rezoning recently went through a public hearing and is now waiting for final reading. Cycle the Lake
A GranFondo is a celebrated tradition in European cycling culture that is coming to our Okanagan Valley. It is a long distance, mass-participating cycle event that welcomes all levels of abilities. The RBC GranFondo Kelowna 2011 will be held Saturday, July 16th, and will be about 140 kilometres of “Loop the Lake.” It will
start and finish on Water Street. If you are interested in riding or volunteering go to www.rbcgranfondokelowna.com for information. Community Awards
Civic and Community Awards celebrations took place at the Kelowna Community Theatre on Wednesday, April 27th. So many individuals from youth to a senior at age 90 were recognized for all their achievements and volunteer time to make our Kelowna the great place it is. Names will be posted at Stuart Park for the upcoming year. Women in Government
Women interested in considering campaigning for municipal government could have benefited from a campaign college held in May. B.C. has the highest ratio of women in municipal government but it is still just at 24%. The goal of “Getting to 30%” is to achieve the United Nations’ definition of a minimal percentage of women required for government to reflect women’s concerns. Happy summer! Remember to buy local for that sustainable 100 kilometer diet!
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 9
Photos: Len McFarlane
Community Report | by Deanna Merrick
KETTLE VALLEY BUSINESS BOOM Tony Overton brings community commercial services it deserves.
fine community. Overton and his family moved from England to Kelowna after doing Mission House Coffee shop owner Billie Aaltonen a cross-country tour of enjoying the sunshine with her customers on the patio. Canada. Although they planned for the near future, as is a walk-in first set eyes upon Kelowna during the clinic and pharmacy. A local post office is raging fires of 2003, they quickly fell in love with the city. He purchased his first also in the works and the buildings’ top storeys will house office space. commercial building at Kettle Valley two “The next six months or so are transiyears ago and bought the lot next door tional. Our plan is to be fully leased by the following year, in August of 2010. this Christmas, with all essential services “We spent a great deal of time knockon site,” he said. ing on doors, talking to the residents,” Businesses in Kettle Valley have a Overton recalls. “From there we developed a short list of services and essentials strong foundation based on demand, and most are enjoying nearly immediate for the buildings. Because we had their success. As Overton points out, these specific needs in mind, it has been very well received by the businesses not only have the Kettle Valley community to draw on, but also the community.” The two commer- large population base found in nearby residential areas. And the presence of cial buildings are neighbourhood facilities like the ones nearly full and will being developed in Kettle Valley actually hold 25 businesses increase the value of the residential propat capacity. To date, they are home erties found there. Clearly, Tony Overton is a man with to a full service restaurant and bar, a an eye to the future, who knows what ReMax sales centre, he wants. He chose his new country, his a gym, travel agency, new city, the Kettle Valley neighbourhood and even the services he and neighbours a full day care facility, coffee shop, would need. Then, with great care and commitment, he went about developing chiropractor and them…in the truest sense of the word. extensive day spa, For more information, contact Tony to name but a few. Tony and Susan Overton in front of the new extension Overton at 250-826-0844. A grocery store is to the Kettle Valley Town Centre.
While looking for an address in the Kettle Valley community, I asked a very attractive young woman for directions to the local coffee shop. “How about if I drive right there and you can follow me,” she offered. This is the essence of Kettle Valley…a community not in name only, but with an infectious atmosphere that is at the same time serene and invigorating. At Kettle Valley, they’ve got all the amenities a good neighbourhood needs… lots of green space for families and kids to congregate, great views, and an outstanding school. Now, with the involvement of Tony Overton, the area’s selection of on-site commercial services is growing, providing even more convenience to this
10 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
Summerhill Pyramid Winery
Celebrate Nature’s Perfection
EXPERIENCE THE AWARD-WINNING ORGANIC WINES AT CANADA’S MOST VISITED WINERY. Join us for our famous “Champagne Making & Pyramid Experience” tours and enjoy wine paired local organic cuisine in the Sunset Bistro. www.summerhill.bc.ca Ask for Summerhill at your favourite retailer or restaurant. SUMMERHILL PYRAMID WINERY 4870 CHUTE LAKE ROAD KELOWNA, BC | 1-800-667-3538 INFO@SUMMERHILL.BC.CA Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 11
In the works | Len McFarlane
The lakeshore Bridge dilemma Illustrations by Len McFarlane
Choices are the hinges of destiny. - Pythagoras
This is a regular feature of our magazine, highlighting public works projects in our community that we sometimes take for granted but which may ultimately affect our quality of life. This article is to inform you of the latest status of the Lakeshore Bridge Project. Staff at the City of Kelowna’s Infrastructure Planning division have been busy since the early part of 2011 working on design concepts for the new Lakeshore Bridge Project. I have had the privilege of engaging OMRA in this effort as the board’s liaison. The cooperation that I have received from both city officials and Stantec Consulting (a private engineering company) in answering my endless questions and providing information on the complexities of the design process for this undertaking has been outstanding.
Current Configuration
To Kelowna
River Run
Truswell Road Mission Creek Today’s bridge at Mission Creek is a level crossing meeting a similarly level intersection at Truswell and River Run. The orange lines in these diagrams indicate pedestrian and cycle routes.
The underlying concern for all parties is the safe, orderly and expeditious flow of both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The Project
The Lakeshore Bridge’s current traffic load is approximately 12,000 vehicles per day and is located in a designated Tourism-Commercial Zone. Future needs will require additional capacity plus the necessity of incorporating a growing level of pedestrian activity. Comparatively, the Casorso and Gordon Drive bridges were designed primarily as vehicle transportation corridors. Hybrid Option
North River Run
Lakeshore Road Pedestrian underpass Mission Creek
The hybrid crossing would create the need to close the west side of the Truswell Road access to Lakeshore Road.
12 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
The Lakeshore Bridge project must also address the additional complexity of joining the popular Mission Creek Greenway to the new Multi-use Corridor at Lakeshore Road. The Current Configuration
The current configuration has two level crossings, one at Mission Creek and the other at Truswell Road. Truswell Road crosses directly into the subdivision entrance of our River Run neighbours. Pedestrian traffic crosses Lakeshore Road at the traffic lights at Truswell Road. The Hybrid Option
This option combines a level crossing with an overpass and the cost could come in as low as $3 million depending on the type of bridge construction that is used. An open house on May 25 showed four variations of construction and the Girder Bridge method seemed to be the most preferred. OMRA has three distinct safety concerns with the hybrid design option: 1) Northbound Lakeshore Road vehicle traffic will be subject to a blind intersec-
There are many factors to consider in the selection of a preferred design concept for the Lakeshore Bridge Project and time is quickly running out.
Truswell Overpass Option
Mission Creek Greenway
Truswell Road
tion at the River Run entrance which will be located at the bottom of a 6°% grade downslope. An independent Transportation Safety Audit has yet to be completed for this design. 2) River Run vehicle traffic will have to merge into Lakeshore Road with limited sight lines to the crest of the bridge. River Run
3 seconds
Bridge crest
Mission Creek
A vehicle travelling at 60 kph will have little time to react to a conflict at the River Run intersection.
3) Pedestrians will be using an underpass similar to the Casorso and Gordon bridges, which are isolated and difficult to monitor. There are two additional items in this design that will negate its efficiency. • Lakeshore Road vehicle traffic will need to slow down or stop to accommodate River Run traffic exiting and entering. • Pedestrians and cyclists will need to climb 6 metres from the underpass to the overpass. The Truswell Overpass Option
This option is a straight overpass and was put forward by the Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association. Early estimates put the cost at upwards of $10 million. In March 2011, city staff became aware of their entitlement to the Gas Tax General Strategic Priorities Fund (GSPF), which could provide $7.9 million in project assistance.
Multi-use Corridor
Foot bridges
This design moves the Mission Creek overpass and the Greenway to Truswell Road.
This option comes with five distinct safety advantages over the hybrid design: 1) The level crossing at Truswell Road is replaced by an overpass which eliminates any conflict at this intersection. River Run residents will access Lakeshore Road via Truswell Road and Cook Road. 2) There is a clean separation between vehicles and pedestrians. 3) All pedestrian traffic remains at grade level. 4) The pedestrian underpass is highly visible which contributes to its safety and security. 5) Safety is also enhanced during high water periods by its distance from the edge of Mission Creek. City officials have identified four concerns with the overpass option: 1) There would be a longer design and construction period. 2) There would be more of a visual impact with the higher structure. At the open house on May 25, the majority of River Run residents I spoke with expressed their strong opinion that safety trumps all other concerns, including the construction period and esthetics. 4) The higher overpass has a greater potential for spreading traffic noise. I spoke with residents of The Lexington subdivision, who were most affected by the elevated Gordon Drive Bridge, and they stated that noise buffering techniques actually reduced traffic noise.
Timelines
If the City of Kelowna is successful in their application to the GSPF they will be committed to constructing the new bridge in 2013. In order to meet that deadline, a tight schedule has been set up to complete the detailed design by October 2012. This means that preliminary drawings must be ready by October 31, 2011. In order to complete these drawings in time a decision must be made within the next few weeks on which design concept to adopt. As of the month of June 2011, much technical analysis still needs to take place before a preferred option is decided. With up to $7.9 million at stake and the safety of the traveling public as their primary concern, city officials have some heavy thinking to do. They know that their decision will have an impact on the lives of Okanagan Mission Residents for the next 75 years, the life expectancy of the new Lakeshore Bridge. If your have any comments or questions regarding this project OMRA would like to hear from you at: letters@omra.ca You may also exercise your right to voice your opinion directly to mayor and council at: mayorandcouncil@kelowna.ca Len McFarlane is the publisher of the Okanagan Mission Review on behalf of the Okanagan Mission Residents’ Association.
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 13
Photos contributed
Special Profiles
THE PASSIONS BEHIND POLITICS
Luke Stack: Affordable Housing
bridge! Clearly the need for affordable housing has been a theme in Kelowna for a very long time. Quiz: What year do you think this was Back in the late 1980s my wife Anne written? “Kelowna is experiencing an Stack and I wanted to make our life’s work acute shortage of rental housing despite the fact that new home construction may count. We had met many single parent families that were really struggling with set a record for the year. I don’t know two things: affordable what we’ll do when “I still get excited when housing and affordwe get an influx of we can place a new resident able daycare. We men to start work who really needs a decided to focus on on the bridge.” decent place to live.” the housing challenge. Does this sound familiar? These quotes were taken from an We knew that a group effort would be rearticle that appeared in the Kelowna Daily quired to make any progress; so together with a number of Christian friends, we Courier over 53 years ago prior to the formed the Society of HOPE. Our vision construction of the first Okanagan Lake
Wills & Estate Planning Real Estate & Mortgages Powers of Attorney Representation Agreements
250-868-8801
Luke Stack
was to provide high quality affordable housing to those who needed it. Some of those early visionary people (Lorne Gerber; Ken Zeitner) are still working at the Society to this day. After many years of focused efforts, the Society has grown to 487 housing units from Peachland to Lake Country. I still get excited when we can place a new resident who really needs a decent place to live. I have seen over the years the tremendous difference it makes to a family or senior to have a stable affordable place to live. The efforts have been well worth it.
MISSION LAW GROUP Joel A. Wiseman
missionlawgroup.com
304 - 3320 Richter Street, Kelowna, BC V1W 4V5 14 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
We invited three Kelowna city councillors to share their enthusiasms.
me to live my passion and earn a living, while at the same time fulfill the desire to create change at a business and political level. Angela Reid-Nagy Now at age 33, I have taken a small departure from music and theatre in Angela Reid-Nagy: order to evolve the other parts of my The Stage, Food purpose-filled plan, but in the process and Sustainable Future have discovered other passions. One of At 18 years old, I was lucky to discover the most exciting is a passion for food, my passion and purpose. I knew that I growing it, preparing it and advocating for was passionate about music and theatre, public access to safe which led to a very and healthy food. strong sense of pur“With my guitar in tow, I entered and placed in several Overarching this is a pose to use my public local singer/songwriter passion for creating speaking, creativity competitions.” Michele Rule a sustainable future, and communications which led me to run skills in a meaningful way to help make the world a better place for city council and to create the business path soon straightened and my burdens consulting company, GreenStep. lessened, I developed a passion for helpthrough business, politics and music. I feel so blessed to be able to live my ing those around me. I began fundraisMusic and theatre were a strong prespassion and purpose each and every day. ing for health issues, working with the ence in my late teens and early twenties, homeless, leading youth in scouting and when I took lead roles in several Theatre volunteering my time in a variety of other Kelowna Society productions including Michele Rule: ways. It was this passion that led me to Cinderella, Nunsense and Babes in the Kelowna and Caring Magic Wood. I served on the Board of I grew up in Kelowna, and after moving run for council - the level of government that has the most impact on people’s daily Directors of TKS during this time, and away for university I returned to start my co-produced a few shows. I also wrote the adult life. It seemed like the right place to lives - with the goal of bringing forward policies that would lyrics for several songs during this time, be - surrounded by make our commuwhich served as an important creative family and friends - a “I began to have a whole new nity vibrant, safe and emotional outlet for a teen-aged girl and familiar place. When appreciation for the welcoming for all our young woman. With my guitar in tow, I those first years community Kelowna was.” residents. And while I entered and placed in several local singer/ became marred by have experienced the songwriter competitions. abrupt turns and frustration, but also the value, of teamTaking my love for the stage, public unpleasantness, I began to have a whole based decision making, I have never let go speaking and creative writing skills into new appreciation for the community that the board room and political realm at age Kelowna was. I discovered a layer of caring of this passion and continue to be strongly motivated toward my vision. 23 proved to be something that allowed that I hadn’t seen before. And while my Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 15
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doesn’t mean your portfolio shouldn’t adjust with changes in the markets or your personal situation. To help ensure your plan is designed to meet your needs no matter the markets’ ups and downs, contact us for a complimentary review. Grant Oram Branch Manager & Associate Portfolio Manager Hal Spelliscy Associate Portfolio Manager Daryl Priebe Financial Advisor Raymond James Ltd. 203 - 3001 Tutt St., Kelowna, BC V1W 2H4 250-763-9300 | www.appreciateyourworth.ca
Raymond James Ltd., Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
Stonybrook Massage Therapy Natural pain relief through deep tissue massage
New Meat department New butcher Great prices on premium meats!!
Gourmet to Go We have shifted to our summer program. Our summer salads are happening as well as our huge selection of side dishes. Drop in for roasted veggies, or asparagus… Try the roast or mashed potatoes, as well as potato, macaroni and Greek Salads. All are made in store from wholesome, natural ingredients.
250-764-3141
email: rmdtracy@shaw.ca
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Robin Tracy
Registered Massage Therapist
Real Estate Appraisal & Consulting Residential, Commercial and Development Property
Open Monday to Saturday 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Sunday 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
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#201 - 1583 Ellis Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2A7 Bus: 250-861-8440 Cell: 250-862-4685 Email: linsal@telus.net
16 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
4600 Lakeshore Road 250-764-7344
Photos: Len McFarlane
Community Report | by Deanna Merrick
Kid care Searching for the Right Provider.
care and provide a wide range of programs, services Cindy Mymka of Kids’ Corner shares some time and resources.” with her little friends. Look online at www. kelownachildcare.com or call 250-762facility often has a wait list, but they work 3536. diligently to get children into the program There’s a new kid in town, ready to as quickly as possible. They have a prooffer a top quality educational experigressive approach to child care, and with ence for children ages 30 months and up. full day programs there’s plenty of time The Little Owl Academy in Kettle Valley for activities such as art, free play, circle opened its doors on April 30. Partners time, outdoor time, nap time, church time Naomi Miller and Lynsey Pashley urge and even an indoor gym. Kids’ Corner parents to contact them as soon as poswelcomes special needs children. sible to register, as programs are filling Cindy Mymka, Daycare Director at up incredibly fast. Registration for their Kids’ Corner, says there is a big need for September pre-school program and out more infant programs and out of school of school care is available now, and part daycare, including transportation. She of the service Little Owl offers is a pick up suggests parents have their children on service for families in the Chute Lake area. more than one wait list if they’re having They’ll also offer a full junior kindergarten trouble securing their spots. Call 250-861program. Naomi says the programs they 5437 for more information. will deliver centre on enhanced themeThere are plenty of other facilities in based learning. The overall focus of Little the Okanagan Mission, and one of the Owl is education, culture, learning and fun best ways to find out what’s available is with a green, earththrough word of mouth. Most daycare friendly approach. providers appear to be very willing to Check out the Little direct parents to other facilities if theirs Owl Academy online are full. There are also a lot of individuals at: who offer programs in their own homes. Call around, ask for referrals and be sure www.littleowlacademy.ca or call 250-801-0167. to contact the Kelowna Child Care Society. With perseverance, a little luck and some Kids’ Corner on research, you’ll soon have your kids regisGordon has protered in the right program for them. grams for infants through five years Deanna Merrick is a freelance writer old. This popular day Co-owner of Little Owl Academy, Naomi Miller, sits with a few of her daycare charges on a Tuesday morning. who lives in Okanagan Mission. care and preschool
Okanagan Mission is an idyllic place to raise a family, and where there are families, there is daycare! It will come as no surprise to learn that finding a daycare or preschool program for your kids is difficult at best. The good news? The programs and facilities offered here are second to none, and there are great resources to assist in your search for the right environment for your child. New facilities in Kettle Valley will also go a long way toward fulfilling some of the wait list for kids in this area. A great place to start your daycare or preschool program search is the Kelowna Child Care Society. Their primary goal is to assist parents in their search for the right child care, and they will even help families who are applying for subsidized care. They offer a very broad range of services, and their mission statement best explains their role: “The mission of the Kelowna Child Care Society is to facilitate quality child
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 17
Photo: Contributed
Community Charity Report | by Lisa Worman
TERRY FOX RUN Join this landmark event to raise funds for cancer research.
In September 2004, life was good. My husband Shane and I were healthy and happy and very busy with our two young boys. Suddenly our lives were thrown into turmoil as Shane was diagnosed with cancer. He was only 34 years old. We fought through surgery and chemotherapy and were just getting our lives back on track when a year and a half later, I was also diagnosed with cancer. I too was only 34. I underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Needless to say, it was a rough few years. Fast forward to today: We are both feeling well and have an even greater appreciation for life. We now proudly stand with other cancer survivors as Terry’s Team Members at the Terry Fox Run. In May 2010, we heard that the Terry Fox Run was in jeopardy of being cancelled in Kelowna. We had always been participants in the event but realized its importance to our community and to cancer research. We decided to volunteer to help organize the event. The Terry Fox Foundation funds cancer research, for all types, and has one of the lowest administration percentages of any charity in Canada. That means that 87 cents of every dollar raised goes directly
to cancer research. Knowing Shane, Eric, Lisa & Joel Worman (volunteer organizers of that 25 years ago, Shane’s type of the Terry Fox Run Kelowna). cancer had a 99% fatality rate and you and ask them to make a donation to now has a 99% survival rate, we are extremely indebted to research. We believe your efforts. It will all make a difference! If you are a cancer survivor, we invite that the progress of cancer research has saved our lives. Unfortunately, there is so you to stand with us as a Terry’s Team Member to show that research can work. much more to do. One out of every four Contact Lisa at lworman@uniserve.com Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer or 250-762-0032. Join us for a fun, community event that honours a great Canadian while raising money for cancer research! You can walk, run, ride, or wheel the 1.5, 5, or 9 kilometer course along the Mission Greenway. There will be Warming up at the Terry Fox Run 2010. a massage tent, barbecue by Freybe Meats, healthy snacks in their lifetime. We want to be a part by Quality Greens, music and kids’ activiof raising that one dollar that leads to an earlier diagnosis, makes the side effects of ties, so bring your family, friends, dog and water bottle! chemotherapy that much easier, or that ultimately finds a cure. Terry Fox Run Kelowna Terry Fox believed that every person Sunday, September 18, 2011 could make a difference. You can make a Mission Sportsfields difference by joining us at the 31st Annual (Lexington & Gordon) Terry Fox Run on Sunday, September Registration: 10:00 am 18th. Mark your calendar! You can sign Event Start: 11:00 am up as an individual or a team at www.terryfox.org or 1-888-836-9786. Please help by spreading the word; send out e-mails to invite your friends and family to join
18 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
Lisa Worman is the Proud Volunteer Co-Chair of Terry Fox Run Kelowna.
GJ’s Hedge & Lawn 250-863-7408 Services we offer:
4 lawn mowing 4 power raking 4 core aeration 4 hedge trimming 4 sprinkler startup 4 sprinkler blow outs 4 spring & fall cleanup
ÂŽ Garden decor, fountains Thymes products and more. 4600 Lakeshore Rd. (beside Sunshine Market)
A message from STEVE THOMSON
I would be pleased to meet with you to discuss any issues or concerns you have regarding the Provincial Government. Please call the office for an appointment and I will do my best to accommodate you. Or, feel free to send me an email at the address noted below. Province of British Columbia STEVE THOMSON MLA KELOWNA MISSION
Office: 250-712-3620 E-mail: steve.thomson.mla@leg.bc.ca
Your neighbourhood. Your friends. Your coffeehouse. 4600 Lakeshore Road
(beside Sunshine Market)
250-764-2900
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 19
For all your Summer Gardening needs. located at the corner of Benvoulin and Pioneer
250-712-9500
Consistent advertising provides you name recognition. Sharon’s Studio Piano Lessons in Kettle Valley
18 years experience in Kelowna
Let us take care of your down pillows and duvets. We recover, clean and refill! 2821 Pandosy
www.duckydown.com 250-762-3130
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church Serving the Mission for 100 years
Sunday services 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM
Children & adults welcome
4619 Lakeshore Road
250-764-5030
www.standrewskelowna.ca
sharonsstudio@shaw.ca 20 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
Photos contributed
Community Report | by Louise Roberts-Taylor
PARK & PLAY PROGRAM This is a great opportunity for families to get outside and play together.
Park & Play in your neighbourhood this summer! Join the City of Kelowna at various parks throughout the summer, for nights filled with life size checkers, bean bag tosses, races through the inflatable obstacle and more. Park & Play began a few years ago as part of an initiative to bring families together in their neighbourhood. The City provides recreational activities in neighbourhood parks to increase accessibility to programming and to promote interaction between families and their local green space. This is a great opportunity for families to get outside, play together and enjoy their neighbourhood. The Park & Play team brings with them a great mix of ball games, group games and even inflatables (selected nights, weather permitting) that
are appropriate for all ages and abilities. Challenge your child to a game of life size snakes and ladders, or take on your spouse in a game of snag golf. See who can hula hoop the longest or which team can catch the most Frisbee tosses. Why not challenge another family to a friendly game of giant soccer with our oversized soccer ball or try to beat them at a relay race! Little ones can have fun playing in the bouncy house inflatable, playing catch or making a craft – no one is left out. So this year, instead of hopping in your car to drive to one of the major parks, hop on your bike, or stroll down the block to enjoy a fun filled evening with your children, friends and neighbours. You can even make a night of it by packing a picnic
A little face painting going on here.
and having dinner at the park. “Our family looks forward to the Park & Play program,” says Sarah Semeniuk, a local resident. “I have three kids, ages four through nine, who love to run around and play with all the different equipment. Last summer our friends would join us with their children making it a great, active night out for the whole family and neighbourhood.” Park & Play will visit 10 different parks this summer making it easy for families to join in the activities at their local park. Let’s get the whole family playing together, outside in the neighbourhood. Park & Play runs July 4 through Aug 26, weeknights from 5 to 8 pm, or dusk, at 8 different parks throughout the city. We will be in Okanagan Mission in August at: Quilchena Park Monday evenings August 1, 8, 15 and 22 5 to 8 pm
For other park locations and more Park & Play information please visit: kelowna.ca/recreation or phone 250-469-8800.
Last year’s Quilchena Park crew .
Louise Roberts-Taylor is the Community and Neighbourhood Programs Manager for the City of Kelowna’s Recreation & Cultural Services department. Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 21
In the Kitchen | by Dona Sturmanis
SUPREME STRAWBERRIES Enjoy them in many different ways.
Strawberries are the first berries to ripen for the summer. They’re technically not a berry, but we’ll think of them as such-- they’re actually an aggregate fruit that comes from the rose family. Who doesn’t love these plump and succulent bright red delights with the wonderful aroma?
There are certain things to look for when buying strawberries.
They’re celebrated by teas and festivals, and the namesake of characters such as Strawberry Shortcake. The garden strawberry we know today, plump and juicy, is the result of cross-breeding, improving on the smaller woodland strawberry. They are not only delicious but extremely nutritious. A cup of sliced, fresh strawberries only has 50 calories. Full of fibre, they are very high in Vitamin A and C, with an impressive variety of other essential minerals. When you buy strawberries, you want to make sure they are firm, ripe, but not overripe. Make sure there is no mushi-
ness, signs of spoilage or rot. One Picking strawberries is child ‘s play. bad strawberry daiquiri? In a blender, add rum, lime juice, affects all the others in the container. sugar to taste, ice cubes and as many Store them in the refrigerator in a strawberries as you like. Whip it up and covered container and use them within serve with a strawberry slice. several days, washing before consuming. Then of course, there are the desserts. Of course they are best fresh, but can Whether it is strawberry shortcake, or simalso be frozen or made into jam. There ply ice cream, all you have to do is slice are many jam recipes on the Internet, including simple ones that don’t require a some strawberries, whirl up a strawberry puree in the blender with a little honey, lot of sugar. and top with whatever you want. I personally like to do creative things Strawberries make a tasty contribution with strawberries when it comes to to a fruit salad, can be skewered with cuisine. For breakfast, besides slicing other fruit for a flash-grilled skewer, or them into your breakfast cereal, why not dipped in a chocolate fondue. top a waffle? A smoothie loves strawberDiscover a variety of ways to enjoy this ries. Into a blender, put a banana, some orange juice, yogurt and throw in as many terrific summer fruit. Your taste buds and your body will thank you. strawberries as you can. Tasty and very good for you. Strawberries are an excellent addition to any type of salad. The sweetness and texture add a nice counterpoint to the otherwise crunchy texture and tangy taste of dressing. Recent personal experiments have proven that they are wonderful in coleslaw, and fabulous in any type of spinach salad. Throw in some cheese and nuts, add a vinaigrette dressing and voila, a gourmet, healthy treat that will impress your friends and family and is very good to eat. Dipped-in-chocolate strawberries And who doesn’t like a strawberry
22 Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011
S poil Y our S enSeS We’re into making lasting memories. Great company, exceptional wines, delicious food and breathtaking views. Pull up a chair. We love having company.
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Time to put your home on the market? Call us today!
Okanagan Mission Review | Summer 2011 23
Discover CedarCreek estate winery. Local, but far, far removed from ordinary.
Terrace Restaurant Now open for Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. summer dinner series
This summer we’re also hosting Winemaker’s Dinners once a month. Please join us June 23rd with Vancouver’s “Best Thai” restaurant Maenam, July 13th for “Burgers & Bluegrass” featuring Canadian Angus Beef & music from the High Bar Gang (bring your dancing shoes), August 25th with our own Chef Stefan Pimenta for a Seafood experience featuring Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and September 8th with the executive chef from Sidecut at the Four Seasons Whistler for “Rubs and Reds”. For more information, visit cedarcreek.bc.ca. Wineshop open - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily Call 250-764-8866, Extension 370, for further information