2009-ochn-bismag

Your guide to the business leaders in the South Okanagan.

Published by The Oliver Chronicle 2009

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS Ye Olde Welcome Inn . . . . . . . . PG 3

Cherry Lane Shopping Centre . . PG 22

Vintage Vines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 4

Katie Amos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 23

CaitlinÕ s Cakes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 5

Sears & All’Round Outfitters . . . PG 24

Artistic Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 6

RudyÕ s Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 25

Walnut Beach Resort . . . . . . . . PG 7

ShopperÕ s Drug Mart. . . . . . . . . PG 26

Savvios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 8

Nunes Pottinger . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 27

NkÕM ip Golf Course . . . . . . . . . PG 9

Gordon Young. . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 28

C.Dor-Gen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 10

Innervisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 29

NkÕM ip Construction . . . . . . . . . PG 11

Osoyoos Physiotherapy . . . . . . PG 30

Interior Ready Mix . . . . . . . . . . . PG 12

Phil Simms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 31

GerardÕ s Equipment . . . . . . . . . PG 13

Expert Hearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 32

Sunrise Restorations . . . . . . . . . PG 14

For Your Eyes Only . . . . . . . . . . PG 33

Nulton Irrigation. . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 15

Lakeside Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 34

Kingsmen Construction. . . . . . . PG 16

Bonnie Doon Health Care . . . . . PG 35

Argon Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 17

Sunshine Valley Wellness . . . . . PG 36

Schweitzer Roofing . . . . . . . . . . PG 18

AthinaÕ s Day Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 37

Specialty Kitchens. . . . . . . . . . . PG 19

JorgÕ s Health Shop . . . . . . . . . . . PG 38

Sears Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 20

Oliver Chronicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . PG 39

AlbertoÕ s Decorating Centre . . . PG 21

Graham Funeral Home . . . . . . . PG 40

The Oliver and Area Business Magazine is written by Lyonel Doherty with Wendy Johnson and Jorg Mardian.

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

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FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

YE OLDE WELCOME INN

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on’t miss out on having a staff party at “The Inn,” said Dale Hyworon.

Last year many were disappointed as we fill up fast during the November and December holiday season. Built in the late ‘70s, Ye Olde Welcome Inn has been a long-time favourite in the area to relax and dine by our real wood burning fireplace, or enjoy a game of pool or darts.

Our extensive menu features most meals for under $10, up to New York Steak and Lobster at $19.95. We are open seven days a week. Ask Dale or any of the eight, year-round staff who work there to give you “old school” service, every day including holidays, with a chef in until 11:00 pm every day.

Friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere with a roaring fire; The Ye Olde Welcome Inn is the place to be.

W

e all love the Okanagan! But most of us never get to see all the beauty of this place.

The Ye Olde Welcome Inn can change that. Dale can book you an appointment for a free flight to see the Okanagan from his plane while listening to your favourite music.

Come experience what you’re missing at “Ye Olde Welcome Inn.” 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

VINTAGE VINES

Personalize your wine at Vintage Vines

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here’s nothing like making your own wine and serving it to your friends and seeing their faces light up after they take a drink.

That’s what turns Ken Hutfelmaking their own wine, either ter’s crank at Vintage Vines in at home or in Ken’s shop.

Oliver. But it’s funny that his All the facilities, ingredients wine connoisseur daughterand equipment are on hand in-law wouldn’t drink his to make any kind of wine home-made wine when he you want. If you don’t see a first started. She just couldn’t particular wine kit in the shop, bring herself to raise that glass of wine to her lips, knowing what Vintage Vines carries four different was to come. brands of wine kits, with a wide “But I learned a lot of range of flavours represented by things (since then) on how to make a good each brand. There are wines from quality wine, so now Italy, Germany, Australia and, of she’ll drink it,” Ken chuckles. He buys and course, B.C. picks his grapes locally, and crushes them himself for peak freshness. they will order it for you.

The owner of Vintage Vines “We like to give people the says you really have to have opportunity to try different the ingredient of love in order kinds of wine. I like to do it to make a good wine, and myself as a hobby, but not manager Kristy Hodson agrees everyone has the room (at wholeheartedly. home),” Kristy says.

“Making wine is like being Ken points to the dollar value Vintage Vines owner Ken Hutfelter and manager Kristy Hodson invite people to come an opera singer. If you deliver as the big reason why people in and learn about the U-Brew operation at 35824-93rd St. in Oliver. your voice and the audience make their own wine. He says exclaims the beauty in it, they the highest priced kit ends up store costing $25 to $40, he ness. In fact, all it takes is one want an encore.” costing $5 to $6 per bottle, says. bacteria or fruit fly to spoil Vintage Vines at 35824-93rd and each kit yields about 28 to Vintage Vines carries four difthe batch, Ken says. Kristy St. offers various wine kits and 30 bottles of wine. Compare ferent brands of wine kits, with agrees, noting that sanitation of supplies to assist people in that to individual bottles in the a wide range of flavours repequipment cannot be stressed resented by each brand. There enough. are wines from Italy, Germany, Ken considers B.C. quite Australia and, of course, B.C. fortunate to be one of the few People have to decide what provinces in Canada permitted type of wine they want (red or to have U-brew establishments. white) and a particular flavour.

He says many customers from Then they choose a four-week Alberta come here to make or six-week kit. If they choose their wine because the U-brewto have the wine made at the on-premise is not available in shop, Kristy takes care of the their province. process and adds the ingrediVintage Vines is expanding ents. Customers are required to into wine coolers and is conparticipate in the bottling stage. sidering carrying beer stock as If they choose to process the kit well. Kristy says customer input at home, they merely have to is very important because that’s follow the instructions, which are how the business stays current. very simple, according to Kristy.

For more information on “Anyone can do it as long as wine kits and supplies, call you follow the steps . . . and 250-498-4684. keep everything really clean.”

Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to In the wine-making business, 4 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday.  Ken Hutfelter demonstrates the bottling procedure at Vintage Vines, where customers cleanliness is next to godlican get involved in making their favourite wines.

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

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FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

CAITLINÕS CAFE AND BAKERY A labour of love and sweet goodness

C

aitlin is too young, and too busy smearing cake all over her face, to realize that her mom wants to leave her a legacy. But it’s really a labour of love.

Whatever you want to call it, people can’t get enough of Caitlin’s Café and Bakery at 940-B Main St. in Okanagan Falls. Owner Debbie Atkinson is hoping her passion for cooking and baking will rub off on her 19-month-old daughter Caitlin, who is currently content on being a food critic.

Debbie, an experienced chef who lives in Oliver, could have chosen several locations to set up shop, but she chose Okanagan Falls for a special reason – it needs a commercial boost to take advantage of the tourism trade. “This community needs things here. Hopefully this (my cafe) will start a trend of more businesses opening up.”

Caitlin’s has been a dream of Debbie’s for a long time. It started with a catering business in Oliver, where she advertised her Jaie Moore gets friendly with the little chef home-made pies. Well, the phone didn’t outside CaitlinÕ s Cafe and stop ringing because word got around that Bakery at 940B-97th St. her pies were to die for. Since opening in Okanagan Falls.

Caitlin’s two months ago, the business has flourished.

The café offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, The cafe offers a variety including a children’s menu.

Caitlin’s is famous for its sausage of breakfast and lunch rolls, which are made from 100 options, including a per cent pure pork, with no fillchildren’s menu. Caitlin’s ers or additives. Other popular items include beef and chicken is famous for its sausage pot pies, baked spaghetti, cabrolls, which are made from bage rolls and, of course, deli sandwiches, burgers, soup and 100 per cent pure pork, salads. Drop in to see the spewith no fillers or additives. cials of the day.

In addition to catering all meals great and small, Debbie also offers bread and the raspberry swirl bread. Debbie a hot meal program, custom-designed for also makes cheese bread, multigrain bread, anyone and delivered free to your home.

Canadian rye and pumpernickel.

You can order one or three meals a day on If you’re wondering how Debbie does it a weekly or monthly basis, depending on all, she’s not alone. Her husband Jaie serves your needs. For example, how does a roast customers, does the dishes and cleans up. beef dinner for four sound? Debbie caters to “He’s famous for making grumpy people any size crowd, including wedding parties. leave with a smile . . . but I don’t know how The hot meal program is great for people he does it.” who are home-bound or cannot cook.

Debbie’s resume is quite impressive. She Caitlin’s baked goods department is indeed went to school for 10 years to learn how to something to write home about. Everything cook and run a business. Her culinary arts is made fresh on the premises, including studies took up six of those years. Prior to donuts, croissants, strudels, cinnamon buns, opening her catering business, Debbie held pies, cakes and muffins. You definitely have the executive chef position at the Best Westto check out the cinnamon swirl raison ern in Osoyoos, and was kitchen manager

at Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course in Oliver.

Debbie fell in love with cooking at an early age. While many parents kept their kids out of the kitchen, her mom and dad encouraged her to experiment with food and different recipes. For example, her father taught her how to prepare Fijian food.

“I’m not happy doing anything else, and I never get tired of it,” Debbie says, noting she enjoys the challenge of making food for different taste buds.

For more information on Caitlin’s Café and Bakery, drop in at 940-B Main Street, or call 250-497-6555. Café hours are Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

ARTISTIC CREATIONS

Mary makes mouth-watering creations

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o you remember the double layer chocolate cakes your mom used to make, especially when she would put jam in the middle.

Artistic Creations makes beautiful cakes for all occasions including weddings birthdays and anniversaries.

Let them know any special request for your design and they will make it happen.

It was quite an art form making one of those big boys, and mom did it perfectly every time.

That’s why Artistic Creations from Mary’s Kitchen reminds you of your mom’s desserts that graced your dinner table.

Artistic Creations is a local home-based business that provides visually artistic and physically delicious baked goods to the South Okanagan and beyond. Cakes, pastries and desserts are made with care and attention for any occasion, such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and just because you crave something sweet.

Artistic Creations has been in business for nearly nine years.

It all started as a hobby for Mary Gifford who cultivated her passion for baking and turned it into amazing, mouth-watering art for friends and family. It wasn’t until 2001, however, that this passion turned into a full-fledged business. With her daughter Rachel Allenbrand aboard, Artistic Creations from Mary’s Kitchen was born! It started off gradually with the building of a new commercial kitchen, getting officially certified by Interior Health and then, of course, finding customers, which wasn’t very hard. The first few years were promising – 20 to 30 weddings each season, and then business took off. The summer of 2006 saw more than 80 special occasion cakes go out to the public.

Mary is really the core of the business. Without her nothing would taste the way it does. She is the baker and also decorates her works of art. Her passion for baking has also found a way to help with a friend’s world famous cook book; you can find her work in “Simply Delicious Cooking.”

Rachel is the PR officer for the business as well as a cake decorator. Being self taught,

Rachel has found working in the cake design business both challenging and fulfilling. With the high publicity of the newfound “Cake World” on TV, “The Cake Boss” and “Ace of Cakes,” Rachel has done what she can to keep up. 3D creations are the latest hit and Rachel finds herself willing to take on the challenge.

“It’s not always easy, but with each cake I find that I am learning more and more, if I keep it up, one day I could be up there with the pros.”

Mary has made countless wonderful desserts during the past nine years, but one of the most challenging and memorable was a graduation cake that served 800 people. It was six tiers tall and six cakes wide! The recipe called for at least 240 eggs and 320 cups of flour.

Mary’s other daughter, Rebekah Wilson, has recently joined the team and brings a whole new artistic flair to the kitchen.

From the start, wedding cakes were the main priority of the business, followed by dessert cakes. From small and simple to large and extravagant, they have created cakes for many local Oliverites and even upcoming Canadian celebrities, such as David Kopp.

Today Artistic Creations provides desserts to four different restaurants in the Okanagan.

The next big step is providing unique special occasion cakes to the South Okanagan. Cakes can be made for birthdays, special parties, grand openings . . . the list goes on.

The business offers great anniversary deals and birthday specials!

For more information on alloccasion cakes, email Artistic Creations from Mary’s Kitchen at info@artistic-creations.ca, or call 250-498 2001.

By appointment only. 

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

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FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

WALNUT BEACH

Walnut Beach boosts a gorgeous view from the interior of the resort facing Osoyoos Lake. Whatever your pleasure this resort has everything in the way of luxury to complement your visit, drop by the Promenade Wine and Tapas Bar for daily specials.

Walnut Beach Resort is the jewel of the South Okanagan

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reathtaking is one of the words that will roll off your tongue as you drive up to Walnut Beach Resort, one of Osoyoos’ most deluxe resort properties.

Built to accommodate an upscale tourism sector, Walnut Beach Resort boasts 112 all-suites and features a 28 slip boat dock. Fitness buffs can use the workout facility with steam room and dry sauna and afterwards relax by the sprawling pool with two hot tubs and patio overlooking the lake.

Don Brogan, the resort’s general manager says it is a spectacular setting no one else has, offering exceptional all year- round luxury service in the

only luxury resort in Osoyoos with a private beach right on the lake.

“All other resort properties have public access to the beach,” said Brogan. “We have a neat situation because of the designated riparian lands on our north and south shores. Our entire property is gated and fenced and the only way on to the beach is through the hotel. That, and coupled with our pool-side dining and beverage service really makes us stand out.

Brogan has a lot to do with this success. He managed the Holiday Inn from 2000 to 2007 prior to his current stint as general manager at the resort and he handpicked all his staff a year and a half before the resort opened. With his experience in the hotel industry and restaurants, Brogan was able to find a great chef, wine bar manager, and head housekeeper.

“We are in the process of getting our beach licenced, which is a first in Canada. That means we can serve food and beverages and you can sit on your lounge chair with your feet in the sand and have a Pina Colada and beer chaser,” he chuckled. “No one else will be able to claim a little piece of Mexico, right here in Osoyoos.”

The majority of marketing for the Walnut Beach Resort is done through the internet.

Brogan is particularly proud of their customer experience rating at tripadvisor.com, which is a gauge he uses for customer satisfaction. We have been ranked the # 1 hotel out of 26 in Osoyoos since we opened last April,” he said.

None of this comes as a surprise, because as Brogan states, they emphasize five “wow” factors. “ First, as you drive up,

you see a massive timbered port corchere (canopy). Second, you enter into an open-air four-storey atrium with chandelier and third you arrive at a split front desk” said Brogan. “My front desk staff greet you warmly, explaining the amenities and the hotel.”

The fourth wow factor is the stunning lake setting. “Lastly, there’s the guest suites which have fully stocked designer kitchens with granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, flat screen TV’s, 350 thread count sheets and MP3 players,” he says proudly. “The view out the windows isn’t shabby either, as guests are greeted by sunshine bouncing off the lake and a panoramic mountain view.”

To Brogan, business is about providing unique, South Okanagan hospitality experiences. For reservations call 250-495-5400. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

SAVVIOS Savvios serves the full meal deal

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ong-time chef Savvas Gavriilidis can’t be anything but frank when he talks about food and his customers: “I want you to crawl in here hungry and crawl out because you’re too full.”

Savvios Family Restaurant at 34646-97th St. specializes in Greek and Italian cuisine. But there is something for all taste buds.

Connie and Savvas enjoy a break between meals at Savvios Family Restaurant.

Savvios Family Restaurant is a great place for family outings and parties. The staff will make sure of that. From left are Michele Spillett, Peter Makridis, Savvas and Connie Gavriilidis and Andrea Farrell.

According to his wife, Connie, that’s the biggest complaint at Savvios Family Restaurant in Oliver: there’s too much food on your plate.

“I want you to be hungry. I want you to come back because I feed you too much,” says Savvas outside his kitchen where he works 18 hours a day, seven days a week.

Cooking has been his passion since the age of 15 (he’s now 49).

When all of his friends were getting tackled playing football, he was cooking and sewing in school. He learned much about food from his mother and aunt while growing up in Winnipeg. He was born in Greece but moved to Canada at age nine.

His natural talent for cooking was observed in a number of establishments, including steak houses, hamburger joints, pizzerias and Greek restaurants. “Whatever I learned, I learned from different people (and different ideas). It was all hands-on training.”

Savvas has a knack for taking a recipe and adding his own personal touch and flavour to create succulent dishes that his customers cannot deny. But one thing is certain, he makes Greek food the way it’s made in Greece, not the way they make it on television. Sorry, Savvas is not a fancy showman who uses the flame trick to cook his saganaki. Although Savvios specializes in authentic Greek and Italian cuisine, they cater to all tastes, including steak, fish, sandwiches, burgers or fries (for the lunch crowd).

Remember, it’s a family restaurant; don’t let the European décor beguile you because the food is very affordable. The cozy, comfy interior of the restaurant (built by an old Italian) looks like an underground wine cellar with elegant lighting. You should see it with Christmas decorations.

Savvios is very popular for private parties and weddings. You can book the restaurant for any occasion; it actually has a “Private Room” that seats 12. Savvas often brings in live entertainment such as belly dancers and musicians.

But let’s get back to the food. If you enjoy Greek cuisine, you’ll be in heaven here, with mouth-watering souvlaki, mousaka and roast lamb. Chances are you won’t be able to move after your meal; they’ll have to roll you out in a barrel, especially if you order the seafood platter. Assistant cook Peter Makridis says all their sauces are freshly made in-house.

Savvas says the key to a good dinner is to relax and enjoy your meal without looking at your watch. Bring the children and let them have fun. “At the end of the day, if I satisfy 18 out of 20 people, I did my job and I’m happy,” Savvas says.

Drop by Savvios at 34646-97th St. to see what all the fuss is about, or call 250-498-4418 for more information. Just remember, come with an empty stomach. 

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

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FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

NK’MIP CANYON GOLF COURSE Golf and native culture come alive at Nk’Mip Canyon Golf Course

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any avid golfers believe that a day not spent swinging a club is a day not living up to its potential.

If you’re nodding your head in agreement, check out the uniqueness of Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course in Oliver.

You’ll marvel how Nk’Mip Canyon mixes golf with local native culture in a beautiful desert setting. Centuries before the course was created, the Okanagan people who lived here formed an affinity with the canyons, the game, the wind and the water that nurtured their lives. Nk’Mip (Inkameep) is roughly translated as “flat bottom land at the mouth of the creek or river.” The Okanagan people saw the land in terms of pictures that went deeper than words, and when you see the golf course, you’ll understand why.

Owned and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, Nk’Mip Canyon gets more than 2000 hours of sunshine every year. It boasts an 18-hole championship course with three full-length practice holes. It also features a driving range with 18 covered stalls and five target greens. The par 72 course is easily walked and full of surprises. Just try the 15th hole nicknamed “The Chief,” which has won more than a few battles with wayward balls.

Director of Golf John Swanson says people appreciate how the culture and history of the Osoyoos Indian Band are preserved at Nk’Mip Canyon, where sculptures and artifacts are showcased throughout the clubhouse.

Director of Golf John Swanson says people appreciate how the culture and history of the Osoyoos Indian Band are preserved at Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course.

Between the mountains and Tuc-El-Nuit Lake, CPGA head professional Rick Crowson practices putting on a green near the clubhouse.

“What I really love about the business is the relationship with the members and guests.

People look forward to coming to a place where you work,” Swanson says. “That’s why customer service is so important. We want to make it the best experience possible for them.”

Swanson is joined by 42 employees, including CPGA head professional Rick Crowson and assistant CPGA professionals Jim Shular and Jeddy Baptiste. They are joined by super-

CPGA professional Jim Shular is very knowledgeable on the many golf products for sale in the pro shop.

intendent Ken Bruneski, restaurant supervisor Jill Bennest, kitchen supervisor Lois Johnson and office administrator Sandra Louie.

Now, if you want to see one of the world’s biggest hitters in golf, you came to the right place. Baptiste is like the Happy Gilmore of golf; he can drive the ball more than 420 yards in competition. In fact, Baptiste represents Canada in the world’s longest drive competition. His hitting speed is “incredible,” Swanson points out.

If you’re looking for lessons, Crowson, Shular and Baptiste are the men to see. They teach everyone from beginners to committed players. If they’re not on the course or in a seminar, you can find them in the pro shop, where top-of-the-line golf merchandise is sold.

The clubhouse restaurant is the place to relax with friends and great food. In fact, it was a finalist in the “best new restaurant” category in Okanagan Life magazine’s annual readers’ choice awards.

Swanson says one of the things that make Nk’Mip Canyon so unique is the three practice holes for people who aren’t ready to take on the entire course. For those who don’t want to walk, there are many golf carts available with GPS units on board. These units display the exact yardage to the pin and offer helpful tips. Call Nk’Mip Canyon, located at 37041-71st St., call 250-498-2880. Or visit the website at www.nkmipcanyon.com. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

CONTRACTORS 

C.DOR-GEN C.Dor-Gen is your custom countertop specialist

H

ow many times have you walked into a home improvement store looking for a customer service rep who was nowhere to be seen?

That would never happen at C.Dor-Gen in Penticton.

The custom countertop specialist at 305-1475 Fairview Road Moe Guillemette and Roger Harris work on one of the many projects (in the historic Cannery buildin the workshop at C.Dor-Gen. ing) always has staff on hand to offer immediate help. Owners business nine years ago, she and Roger Roger and Kim Harris and their office assistant Susan Paradis can assist you in deciding owned and managed a motel at Gallagher Lake near Oliver for eight years. Like the what type of countertop you want for your motel business, C.Dor-Gen attracts many kitchen or bathroom. repeat customers.

C.Dor-Gen specializes in cutting and “We have people who come all the way finishing ready-made countertops, and from the Coast and the Kootenays just for building (in its on-site workshop) custom our service (and our countertops),” Kim laminate tops with different specialty edges. says.

The business is also a sales point for natural C.Dor-Gen installs everything it builds stone surfaces, such as Cambria quartz, in its workshop, which is adjacent to the Caesarstone quartz, Piedrafina marble and showroom. This is where Roger and his Vetrazzo (recycled glass surfacing). C.Dorassistant Moe Guillemette put their talents Gen works with Colonial Countertops in to work. They fabricate post-form (rolled Kelowna to provide these products.

Kim says quartz countertops are very popu- edge) countertops and build countertops lar because they are nonporous and scratch- with many available custom edges such as Corian and beveled laminate edges. They resistant, not to mention luxurious. They are can also “refresh” or resurface any kitchen also cleaner and safer for food preparation or bathroom countertop. For example, durpurposes because of their antimicrobial ing this interview, Roger was re-laminating a properties. bathroom vanity for a customer who wanted There are many colours and styles to the top resurfaced to make it look like new choose from, so if you’re looking for a again. countertop, visit the showroom and check “We build quality with pride,” says Roger, out all the samples on display. Kim says they noting that many contractors come to educate their customers to help them make C.Dor-Gen for its high quality craftsmanship their own decisions at their own pace. and reliable service.

For those of us with champagne taste and For Roger and Moe, the satisfaction comes beer budgets, laminate can give the top-end in seeing the finished product after helping look you crave. Today’s laminate has such the customer achieve the desired end result quality patterns and finishes that provide a for their kitchen and bathroom designs. great look at a great price.

Kim says if you visit the showroom and Whatever your choice, Kim and Susan take don’t see what you want, she can source it their time to make sure they provide you out and have it delivered. with what you’re looking for because they For more information or questions about want you to be happy for the long term, not countertops, call C.Dor-Gen at 250-493the short term.

8815.  Kim has worked in customer service most of her life. Prior to buying the countertop

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

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CONTRACTORS 

NKÕM IP CONSTRUCTION NkÕ Mip Construction does it all to perfection for their clients

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orking with their hands and the smell of fresh cut wood is what keeps the boys at Nk’Mip Construction eager to build whatever comes their way.

“At the end of the day you can turn around and see what you’ve accomplished. We love working with our hands and being creative,” says manager Mitch Anderson.

The 25-year-old has been working for the Osoyoos Indian Band company for eight years. It started as a summer job because he loved building things out of wood. He told the previous manager that if he wasn’t offered a job, he would camp outside the office. So one day the manager called him up and said they started work at 4 a.m. Anderson jumped at the chance, and it wasn’t long before he graduated from framer to finisher.

Anderson joins an experienced crew, including Ken (Skinner) George, Harry Gallagher, Michael Gallagher, Kevin Morgan (2nd year apprentice) and Damian Baptiste (1st year apprentice). It’s a small company, but Anderson said they prefer it that way because “you learn a lot more in a small company” since there is more one-to-one teaching and training.

Nk’Mip (pronounced Inkameep) Construction began with only a couple of carpenters (George and Gallagher) in 1986. The business has grown significantly since then, offering a variety of skills including residential and commercial construction, renovations, siding, drywall, painting, roofing, soffit work, gutters and a bit of plumbing and electrical work.

Among the company’s highlighted projects are Hester Creek Estate Winery, Golden Mile Cellars and a Viceroy home on Road 10. Anderson said this home was like a giant puzzle with prefab walls and bundles of wood, and the instructions were mind-boggling. But the crew took its time and finished the project, resulting in a very happy owner.

“Everyone we build for is happy and impressed with our work.” We’re not about quantity but perfection. We don’t like to cut corners . . . we like to do it right the first time,” Anderson says.

In the past two years, Nk’Mip Construction has built 12 homes. One of the largest was a three-storey home with four fireplaces, a walk-in shower, a huge walk-in closet and three bathrooms.

The business has grown significantly, offering a variety of skills including residential and commercial construction, renovations, siding, drywall, painting, roofing, soffit work, gutters and a bit of plumbing and electrical work. Here, manager Mitch Anderson leans against the companyÕ s work truck.

The crew recently finished working on a wheelchair-accessible duplex for elders on Black Sage Road. Anderson calls this a special project because “we want to make sure they (the residents) don’t have to be completely dependent on others.”

As far as training goes, Anderson says you have to perform 5000 hours of apprentice work before you can obtain your carpenter’s ticket. Everyone at Nk’Mip Construction (except the two apprentices) has done that. In addition, there are various seminars and courses for upgrading your skills. For example, Anderson attended the R2000 conference in Kamloops, where he learned about fixing old mistakes, improving airflow in homes and “building green.” The crew is also learning more about solar energy.

“If you’re not learning something every day, what’s the point in doing the job?”

The crew works Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information about the company and its services, call 250498-0314. 

During the past two years, NkÕ Mip Construction has built approximately 12 homes. Among the companyÕ s highlighted projects are Hester Creek Estate Winery, Golden Mile Cellars and a Viceroy home on Road 10 in Oliver.

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

CONTRACTORS 

INTERIOR READY-MIX LTD.

Employees of Interior Ready-Mix Ltd. are, from left, Jake Stratton, Reid Stratton, Pat Balas, owner Wilf Scheer and office manager Sandra Wagner. Missing from photo is Jeromy Barker.

Interior Ready-Mix goes the extra mile

N

ot too many companies will work weekends to satisfy a customer. But Interior ReadyMix will do just that.

“Our customer service is the biggest thing.

We go out of our way to look after people.

We’ll even work Saturday and Sunday to get the job done,” says owner/operator Wilf Scheer.

The company, located at 8915 Thorp Road (off Sawmill Road), provides ready-mix concrete for any job, big or small, whether it be for a short commercial walkway or a home foundation. And the cost estimate is free.

Interior Ready-Mix also provides concrete accessories, including forms, rebar, wire and fibre mesh, block retaining walls and sealers.

In addition, the company also offers dump truck service (hauling gravel, for example) and crane truck service (lifting roof trusses).

Interior Ready-Mix has an excellent reputation for its work, which includes the building of Hester Creek Estate Winery, which involved 2,300 meters of concrete, Scheer said.

The company’s success is largely due to its five employees, including Reid Stratton and

his son Jake Stratton, son Jake, who’s gainPat Balas, Jeromy ing a lot of experiBarker and office ence by learning the manager Sandra intricacies of mixing Wagner. But Interior concrete.

Ready-Mix would There are many never have inivariables and details tially succeeded if it to keep in mind wasn’t for Tony Agar, when mixing conScheer’s original crete. For instance, business partner. proper weighing of Agar died on the job ingredients is very five years ago, but his important, and your memory still lives on. equipment must be Scheer was never calibrated correctly, the nine-to-five office Interior Ready-Mix owner Wilf Scheer leans out the too. It’s like a big window of a concrete mixing truck at 8915 Thorp Road. type, preferring to recipe, if you miss work with his hands, one ingredient or as long as it had don’t use enough something to do with concrete. He started of a particular additive, you won’t get the his career in 1979 at a concrete company in desired texture or result.

B.C., where he worked in all departments, Scheer says that concrete mixing properties including sales, dispatching and dump truck change every year, with different additives service. that make the concrete more “workable” “It’s an interesting job because it changes all without compromising strength. This is the the time. It’s not always the same scenario, kind of information you need to know in this there are different challenges.” business.

Scheer says the best training that his staff The company services clients from Penticton can get is on the job, from each other. For to Osoyoos. Call the office at 250-485-0939 or example, Reid is acting as a mentor for his contact Wilf on his cell at 250-485-7224. 

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

13

CONTRACTORS 

GERARDÕS EQUIPMENT LTD.

Owner Gerard Zandee stands behind one of many farming machines the business sells and services at 33684-97th St (south of Oliver).

GerardÕ s is one fine-tuned machine

I

f it wasn’t for the support of local farmers and orchardists, Gerard’s Equipment Ltd. in Oliver wouldn’t be here today.

So says appreciative owner Gerard Zandee, who started the business 36 years ago.

“We like to focus on helping the farmers do the best job they possibly can . . . they put food on the table, literally and figuratively,” Gerard points out.

The Holland native was raised on a farm in an area with the “heaviest soil in the world” – clay. When he was old enough, Gerard went to technical school where he studied manufacturing, farm equipment and diesel mechanics. He eventually found his way to Oliver and began working in an orchard.

Now he’s the owner of a successful business providing equipment, supplies and repair services to farmers, orchardists, grape growers and lawn and garden enthusiasts.

Gerard’s Equipment Ltd. is the oldest Stihl chainsaw dealer in B.C. (since 1965), and has been a Kubota tractor dealer since 1982.

Check out the Kubota RTV500-H utility vehicle, which is very practical for orchard work.

Operations manager Rob Zandee says the business also sells equipment from all over the

Mechanics Bill Pascoa (left) and Eldon Richardson service various farm machinery and implements that come into the shop.

world. For example, they carry leaf removers from Germany and sprayers from Italy.

“We have all the equipment that’s needed to manage an orchard,” Rob says.

Other equipment in Gerard’s inventory includes branch shredders and chippers, compressed air pruners, generators, tilling machines, pesticide sprayers, lawn mowers, weed trimmers and pumps. The business also carries a selection of vineyard supplies and

equipment, such as trellis, net winders and automatic noise makers to keep away the birds.

Gerard’s Equipment employs 12 people, including four mechanics. Because the business stands behind everything it sells, it provides repair service for all makes of machinery.

But you won’t have to worry about Stihl and Kubota since they make top quality equipment with excellent warranties.

“That’s what I look for,” Gerard says.

The business assembles all of its new tractors and farm equipment in its repair shop, where mechanics like Bill Pascoa and Eldon Richardson are always busy. As far as training is concerned, employees upgrade their skills and knowledge on a yearly basis, Rob points out.

You have to keep learning in order to keep current on the latest equipment and technology.

Besides all the equipment you need to run an orchard or vineyard, Gerard’s carries various safety equipment, such as hearing protection, goggles and pesticide spray helmets. It also has a large inventory of machine and implement parts. If you need something special, Gerard’s will either make it or order it. Ordering usually takes a couple of days.

Gerard’s Equipment Ltd. services a large area, from Kelowna to Oroville, WA and from Princeton to Grand Forks. Its showroom at 33684-97th St (south of Oliver) is a machine lover’s dream. For more information, call 250-498-2524. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

CONTRACTORS 

SUNRISE RESTORATIONS BEFORE

AFTER

Employees of Sunrise Restorations Ltd. are (from left) Cindy, John, Crusiano (child), Duane, Loraine, Katherine, Chris, Jeff, Brad, Jamie and Mel.

Here are two before-and-after photos of a fire-damaged home that Sunrise totally restored.

Sunrise Restorations to your rescue

B

eing a disaster restoration specialist, one thing is certain: you’re in for a lot of dirty work, but like the old saying goes, “somebody’s got to it.”

That’s what makes Sunrise Restorations Ltd. in Oliver so unique. Since 1991, this fullservice restoration company has been the one to call for fire and water damage, carpet and upholstery cleaning, odour control, mold remediation, sewer backups, vehicle impact, storm damage and vandalism.

A lot of people won’t do this type of work because it can be such a dirty job, but Sunrise’s goal is to ensure that at the end of a disaster everyone’s happy and back to normal.

Sunrise employs 10 full-time workers plus a number of temporary workers to help out when things get busy. Duane and Loraine Mercer started the business out of their home, fulfilling a need for carpet cleaning and restoration services. Duane has been certified as a master restoration technician through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Other certified personnel include John Nunes, project manager and certified water and smoke restoration technician, Jeff Powlesland, a

Sunrise Restorations Ltd. cleans carpets, upholstery and fabric. It also cleans blinds using ultrasonic technology.

carpet, upholstery and fabric cleaning technician, and other personnel certified in specific areas.

The first question a homeowner has after a fire or flood is “what’s next?” Sunrise works closely with you, your insurance agent and adjuster so that whatever work is needed is done quickly and efficiently with minimal stress on the homeowner.

“If your house is flooded, we dry and restore it. If your house is smoke-damaged, we clean and restore it. If your house is destroyed by fire, we rebuild it,” Duane says emphatically, noting the company prides itself on its high level of service.

From fire and water damage-related reconstruction and deodorization to water extraction and structural drying, Sunrise does it all. In the case of smoke damage, they clean

everything from top to bottom, including all the contents. They even do the laundry and dry cleaning, and offer ultrasonic blind cleaning. Sunrise cleans and repairs all types of wall, floor and ceiling material, and looks after contents such as fine china to hardwood furniture.

The business has all the specialized equipment required to restore a home after a fire or flood. They have more than 70 heavyduty air movers and more than a dozen professional dehumidifiers. Other specialized equipment includes HEPA filters and ultraviolet air decontamination technology to eliminate odours, bacteria, viruses and molds.

Sunrise says people have to be really careful when dealing with water damage because of the health hazards associated with mold.

People try to restore their own homes but then end up with mold and resulting odour problems due to insufficient drying and decontamination. The most important thing to remember about water damage is that a fast, thorough response prevents mold growth and additional damage to your home and contents.

They are available 24/7 and normal response time is under an hour. The after hours emergency line is 250-689-7700.

Check out their website at www.sunriserestorations.com or visit the shop at 34521-89th St. in Oliver. For more information by phone, call 250-498-2250. 

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

15

CONTRACTORS 

NULTON IRRIGATION

Nulton Irrigation owners Craig Roth and his wife Juanita stand in front of their new store under construction. The store is slated to open in 2010.

Trust the experts at Nulton Irrigation

S

ome people don’t like change because it upsets their balance and routine. But if you’re in business, you have to embrace change or be left behind by the competition.

Craig Roth doesn’t worry about that too much; his worry relates to the lack of change that would make his job uninteresting, not to mention unchallenging.

“It gets boring if there is no change,” says the owner of Nulton Irrigation in Oliver.

The B.C. certified irrigation designer loves the challenge of designing irrigation systems with his colleague German Barahona, a certified designer who graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Concepcion in Chili.

Nulton Irrigation is known for its professional CAD designs of irrigation systems for orchards, farms, vineyards and lawn/gardens. But the important thing to know is they service everything they sell. For installation purposes, Nulton works with a number of contractors who specialize in that part of the business.

Roth is very excited about moving into his new store just down the road from his current location at 8950-347th Ave. The new shop, destined to open in

2010, will hold more product and inventory resulting in better selection and even better service.

The Nulton name in irrigation goes back a long ways, starting in 1972 when Roth’s grandfather (John Nulton) opened the store in Oroville, WA. Roth worked in the store during his high school years and remembers sweating it out while installing irrigation systems in ditches. He enjoyed the business so much that he and his wife Juanita bought it in 1984. They opened the store in Oliver in 2001 and continue to operate the Oroville shop.

“What makes it fun? It’s always changing,” Roth says, noting that 40 years ago the material of the day was aluminum pipe, then came plastic and now poly hose.

Because crops are always changing, the irrigation systems change to suit the watering needs of the newly planted trees. And with change comes improved technology. When Roth and Barahona custom design an irrigation system, they

Certified irrigation designers Craig Roth (left) and German Barahona of Nulton Irrigation in Oliver love the challenge that the business offers on a daily basis.

use GPS technology. After getting the dimensions and slope of the area, they can sit down and design a system using computer automated drafting.

Roth says good growers are all water conservationists. If they put the right amount of water on their crop, they’ll get a good crop; if they put too much or too little, they won’t get the ideal crop, Roth explains.

“We practice water conservation by the quality of our designs,” Roth says. For example, they make sure the irrigation system hits the first tree and the

last tree with the same amount of water.

Roth and Barahona can design everything from drip irrigation in a small garden to a center pivot system in a large alfalfa field. There is nothing they really can’t design.

Roth says the one thing Nulton Irrigation has over the competition is the fact it has the expertise to service the products it sells. For more information on Nulton Irrigation, visit the shop or call 250-485-0246. You can also reach Roth on his cell at 250-689-1114. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

CONTRACTORS 

KINGSMEN CONSTRUCTION

Kingsmen Construction partners (from left) Roger Thomas, Elroy Pankratz and Mark Pankratz stand in front of the new food bank on 93rd St. This project has been a labour of love, with donations from various tradesmen and contractors.

Kingsmen Construction: goodwill mission

M

ost businesses are in it for the bottom dollar, but not Kingsmen Construction in Oliver.

This company is in it for the community and those who are less fortunate. If you find that hard to believe, read on.

Company owners Mark Pankratz, his father Elroy Pankratz and Roger Thomas are a rare breed in the residential construction industry. For starters, a minimum of 10 per cent of their profits go to charity, such as the local food bank. What’s left is used to run the business and help Elroy, a semi-retired pastor, do mission work in Africa. This work includes building orphanages for children.

Are these guys for real? You bet!

“Our desire is to meet the needs of the community . . . and we end up making friendships (along the way),” says Elroy, who started a small construction company called “Kingsmen Ventures” in 1978.

Kingsmen Construction was born in 2004, when the three men pooled their skills and resources to build homes. Mark, a real estate agent for the past 10 years, was looking for a new challenge, and he certainly found

it. He and his wife Räe are also the pastors at Living Way Christian Centre. They took over that position from Elroy, whose passion is mission work in Third World countries.

Roger, who once worked as a landscaper, decided to quit mowing lawns and start building homes as part of his contribution to the faith. As a journeyman carpenter, his passion is working with his hands and creating something from a simple idea.

The company, staffed by family members, focuses on quality rather than quantity. During the past five years it has completed 42 projects, with the help of local subcontractors. Its latest venture is the new food bank on 93rd Street in Oliver. Local tradesmen heeded the call for donated materials and labour, and Kingsmen Construction reduced its rate and charged only enough to cover its bookkeeping and office expenses. In the end, they saved the food bank about 35 per cent in construction costs.

“We were very excited to see this generosity from our subtrades,” Mark says, noting the new building may not have been possible without this goodwill.

Kingsmen Construction builds quality homes that last a lifetime. The quality has to be there or else you’ll never hear the end of

it from Roger, Mark says. “Roger is extremely fussy. Everything has to be done right. If it isn’t level or square, we hear about it from Roger.”

Mark’s passion for the business comes from helping people discover their dreams. “It’s a real joy when the home is done and the client says, ‘It’s just as I envisioned it.’’’ It gives Kingsmen Construction great satisfaction knowing it built a home that will nurture and shelter families for years to come.

Roger recalls one homeowner who showed him a picture of a fireplace that he wanted in his house. But his living room dimensions didn’t support that vision. However, Roger tackled the job with great determination.

“When we were finished it was exactly what it looked like in the picture,” Roger says.

Homeowners love the work that Kingsmen Construction does. As proof, five people in the Tuc-el-Nuit area wanted the same floor plan. And one homeowner wanted the exact same house as another.

“It’s a commitment with everyone involved. We’re committed to one another,” Roger says.

For more information on Kingsmen Construction, contact Mark at 250-488-1568 or 250-498-6222. 

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

ARGON ELECTRIC

17

CONTRACTORS 

Seen left to right: electrician Earle Streeter, Argon Electric owner Dean Malmberg and third-year apprentice electrician, Bill Tinker. Missing is Blair Levant who will get his journeyman’s ticket in December.

Argon Electric: Is the spark of light

T

he utilization of electricity has come a long way since light bulbs snuffed out kerosene lamps.

Now improvements in electrical technology and their widespread applications are going mainstream faster than the speed of light, meaning yesterday’s expansive visions are today’s products and systems. And who knows what cutting edge surprises tomorrow will bring?

So when people hire an electrician to wire a home, business or industrial complex, they want to know that the company they engage is not only current on Electrical Code changes but is knowledgeable about and experienced in the latest technology—because in the 21st century there is so much more to an electrician’s job than pulling wire and placing plugs.

In the Oliver area, Argon Electric demonstrates its commitment to professionalism and dedication to their craft with every job they perform. Owned and operated by Dean Malmberg since 2001, Argon understands the demands of this evolving industry and prides itself on personal service.

“We are B-electricians who focus on anything from industrial down to commercial and residential,” explained Malmberg, add-

ing that a B designation means his men are proficient in anything up to 750 volts. Higher voltages usually denote big power lines and large transformers.

He and his staff—journeyman Earle Streeter, third-year apprentice, Bill Tinker and journeyman-in-waiting Blair Levant who completes his fourth year apprenticeship at Christmas—are comfortable whether the job entails renovating a room or a commercial building, or wiring a new home and installing automation, home audio or a multi-room audio systems.

And it is in the latter categories where Argon shines. Quick to see the developing trend towards home automation where appliances, lighting, heating and air-conditioning could be manipulated off-site by remote control, and home audio systems that blow stereos out of the water, Malmberg earned his certification as a Russound Sphere Installer and is getting certified for Colorado vNet. “Sphere is a high-end home audio system that can’t be installed by just anybody,” he warned. “Only certified installers can sell the equipment; only certified installers can sell it, so if you buy one of those Sphere systems on E-Bay, it’s useless.”

However, good companies don’t limit themselves in their skills. Like Argon, they discern the public’s requirements and provide those services. Currently, Malmberg holds nu-

merous maintenance contracts—Mt.Baldy, SuperValu, Sunnybank and South Okanagan General Hospital for instance—and Argon is just finishing a huge industrial contract at the Co-op, installing a pre-sizer line that grades apples automatically.

Add to that the home renovation contracts where they work with a client during every phase of the project, the work being done at local wineries and the Osoyoos Indian Band’s bingo Hall, and the contracts to wire new homes currently in the cement-pour stage, and it is obvious why Argon is looking to expand its staff.

But perhaps the greatest insight into what makes this company succeed is Malmberg’s approach to the growing popularity of solar heating. Determined to become proficient in this electrical option, he is not satisfied with simply taking the training course.

“Before that, I want to do background research and read up on the technology to understand it. I don’t know about others but that’s the way I approach it—not just show up at the course without any prior knowledge.”

It is that professional thoroughness and attention that continues to make Argon Electric the success it is.

Business hours are from 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Monday to Friday. Call the shop at 250-4984506, or Malmberg’s cell at 250- 498-9257. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

CONTRACTORS 

SCHWEITZER ROOFING & RENOS

Joey Schweitzer gives an honest day’s work

J

oey Schweitzer loves when people say that a particular job can’t be done because it’s too formidable.

“Just watch me . . . there is no challenge too great,” he says while reflecting on his career as a roofer and renovations specialist. “An old Dutchman in Calgary once said, ‘There is never a problem, always a solution (and I believe that).’”

Schweitzer has 25 years’ experience in roofing and renovations; his specialty is renovating kitchens and bathrooms. This work includes setting ceramic tiles, laying hardwood floors, installing cabinetry and counters.

His residence is actually a “project house” where he has renovated nearly every room.

For example, he has three different hardwood floors, including cherry birch, maple and bamboo. It’s obvious that he’s highly skilled in this discipline and very versatile. He has also framed in rooms, insulated, drywalled, textured ceilings, installed doors and windows. Basically, he can do everything from the ground to the roof.

Schweitzer can’t fathom working at a desk job every day, shuffling papers and starring at a computer screen. His passion is working with his hands and creating, as he says, a “TOB” (thing of beauty).

“I like the whole renovation thing, and Christmas time is great because you get lots of tools,” he chuckles.

Schweitzer was introduced to the roofing business by his stepfather. He caught on quickly and developed a knack for the job. He worked for a number of years in Calgary, Alberta and in Saskatchewan. When he moved

Joey Schweitzer of Schweitzer Roofing and Renos has a vast knowledge in pitched roofing installing, laminates, sheet metal, three-tab and shakes.

to rural Oliver in 2005, he set up Schweitzer Roofing and Renos. His part-time sidekick is T.J. Alcott, who’s learning a lot about the business.

Schweitzer says the one message he would like to convey to the public is you can expect an honest day’s work out of him. “I can renovate any room in the house . . . there is nothing I won’t undertake.”

As far as roofing jobs go, Schweitzer has a

vast knowledge in pitched roofs, installing three-tab, laminates and shakes, as well as sheet metal roofing. He can even repair flat roofs. He also installs soffit and fascia and various siding, including vinyl and hardiboard.

Schweitzer says his most challenging job was a 5,500 square-foot steep roof with cut up valleys and a lot of challenging angles. It was a “scary job,” but very satisfying in the end.

Schweitzer has a real talent for transforming rooms into showSchweitzer says the one cases of modern living. Renovatmessage he would like to ing a room is like a puzzle, but convey to the public is you it’s not hard for him because he already knows where the pieces can expect an honest day’s go. It is the finished product that gives him the most satisfaction. work out of him. “I can If you’re not learning somerenovate any room in the thing new every day, you’re not house . . . there is nothing I living, according to Schweitzer, who coaches Midget House won’t undertake.” hockey as a hobby and plays with the Oldtimers league.

Sports help keep Joey feeling fit Even every room in Joey and he enjoys being involved in the commuand Judy Schweitzer’s nity as a way to relax after a hard day’s work. home has been renovated. Joey loves renovatFor more information on his services, ing kitchens, and is shown call 250-485-8627 or 250-498-2529.  here kneeling on the tile flooring.

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

19

FOODHOME AND BEVERAGE SERVICES 

SPECIALTY KITCHENS & COUNTERTOPS Specialty Kitchens & Countertops make your home sparkle

I

t’s hard to truly appreciate a custom-made kitchen or countertop unless you see it, feel it and experience it firsthand.

The showroom at Specialty Kitchens & Countertops is like a Martha Stewart dream.

That’s the kind of feeling you get during the tour by owners Mike and Barb Mills, who have been helping people custom design their cabinets and countertops for over four years. For them, it’s an exciting challenge to see what they can do for a customer.

“To see the final product is part of the joy,” Barb says.

For example, one renovation project involving new cabinets and countertops resulted in this response from the customer: “Thank you for the beautiful countertops and fantastic work.

We are absolutely dumbfounded and we really appreciate what you did for us.”

Barb says sometimes it’s the small jobs that make you feel the best.

Specialty Kitchens & Countertops Ltd. manufactures and professionally installs high quality cabinets and countertops that are designed to satisfy each customer’s unique requirements. They also do ensuites, bathrooms, entertainment units,

fireplace mantels, closet organizers, wine bars and more.

The Mills work with several quality builders from Penticton to Osoyoos, focusing on residential, commercial, new construction and renovation projects. Installations are professionally done by a journeyman carpenter with more than 20 years’ experience and a keen attention to detail.

Personalized service is one of the keys to success for Specialty Kitchens & Countertops.

Because design is of significant importance to a kitchen that functions well, all designs are individually done on a computer so clients can visualize the end result.

A wide selection of countertop solutions such as postform, flat-lay laminate, Corian, quartz products and granite are available. There are hundreds of samples to look at. If you don’t see the sample you’re looking for, Barb or Mike can find it for you.

European-style cabinets are constructed on-site. The material is cut with computer-aided equipment, assembled using

Specialty Kitchens and Countertops offers a variety of custom-made countertops, with beautiful surfaces including quartz and granite. Check out the showroom at 34851-93rd St., Oliver.

precise accuracy, and a solid back is used to improve rigidity and strength. Wood doors, custom stains and thermofoil doors in many different colours and styles are offered. Something new in-store is a two-sided vinyl wrapped door to give a more “wood-like” appearance. All doors are manufactured by the door experts at Epic Industries Inc. and Classic Woodcraft in Kamloops.

Soft-close doors and drawers, crown moulding, show panels

and glass doors are available upgrades for your kitchen.

And there are many styles of handles, too. Accessories such as the “Magic Corner” make use of dead space, and recycling containers put the “green” back into the kitchen.

“When we design a kitchen we try to maximize the space you have. That’s the advantage of having it customized,” Barb says.

Visit the showroom at 3485193rd St. or call 250-498-3606 for more information. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

HOME SERVICES 

SEARS FLOORING CENTRE

Sears Floor and Window delivers quality

I

guess you can call Alberto Veintimilla a man of expansion; he listened to his customers at his decorating centre and literally “floored them.”

Years ago customers of Alberto’s Decorating Centre asked him where they could find top quality flooring, but he had to send them to Penticton for that. So he seized the opportunity to expand, and the rest, shall we say, is history.

Today, Sears Floor and Window Covering Centre at 33870 Hwy 97 in Oliver is your one-stop shop for all your flooring and carpeting needs. The 6000 square-foot building holds a lot of inventory to service clients of all tastes (both residential and commercial).

Alberto works closely with reputable construction companies and contractors in the installation of hardwood flooring, ceramic tiles, laminate, fiberglass vinyl and carpet- (Sears Flooring) – Sears Floor Window Covering Centre ing. For example, Alberto is providing the and is located at 33870 Hwy flooring for Cactus Ridge retirement centre 97 south of Oliver. Visit the in Osoyoos, and completed a job for a new showroom for all your flooring needs. youth rehabilitation centre in Keremeos.

Alberto’s staff includes veteran hardwood floor installers and “The one thing we always tile setters with more than 20 years’ experience. He also has strive for is to give you what a crew with expertise in carpet you pay for. We want to and fiberglass vinyl installation.

“The one thing we always make sure that at the end of strive for is to give you what you the job, you’re satisfied . . pay for. We want to make sure that at the end of the job, you’re . that there is no reason for satisfied . . . that there is no call-backs.”

-Alberto reason for call-backs.”

The business is unique because You can’t accuse Sears it just doesn’t sell flooring with Floor and Window Covera “hello-goodbye” attitude. Its success stems ing Centre for not having from the knowledge and ability to offer a variety of carpets to choose from. Here, “package deals.” For example, staff will look Alberto stands amidst a at your home and help you choose your large selection. floor covering to complement your décor and colours. to European technology in “fiber floor,” “We do all the coordinating that makes which is fiberglass vinyl that looks like tile. sense, with a nice flare,” Alberto says.

This type of flooring has “finally taken off in The strength of the business has always been ceramic tile, he points out, noting they Canada in the last six years,” Alberto says, only install it one way – properly. “We don’t noting this superior product is cheaper than traditional vinyl. cut any corners,” he says.

As for carpeting, Alberto deals with all Laminate and hardwood flooring are also major manufacturers, therefore, he can get big sellers, but staff put more emphasis on what you’re looking for. He says carpeting is solid hardwood because “at the end of the a lot more aggressive in colour designs and day it’s a better value.” quality, and most orders can be installed in Alberto’s shop doesn’t carry traditional two weeks. vinyl anymore. Instead, they have switched People are invited to check out the many

colours and styles of flooring in stock at “fantastic prices.” There is also a selection of large rugs to choose from, as well as window coverings. Alberto says they can book jobs immediately with no waiting period.

Sears Floor and Window Covering Centre can source products from all over the world.

“We educate our customers and educate ourselves (at the same time),” Alberto says.

For more information on how to update or bring on a whole new look at home call the experts anytime at 250-498-6988. 

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

21

FOODHOME AND BEVERAGE SERVICES 

ALBERTOÕ S DECORATING CENTRE

John Mullen, sales associate works alongside owner,Tracy and her daughter, Petra Veintimilla at AlbertoÕ s Decorating. AlbertoÕ s is widely known as the one-stop-shop for Hunter Douglas window coverings, unique housewares and an exceptional variety of beautiful paints and wallpapering for your home.

Do it with colour and flair at AlbertoÕ s

S

tepping into Alberto’s Decorating Centre is like walking into a museum of modern art.

ranty against this problem.

A new line of paint that Alberto’s carries is called C2, a superior, environmentally friendly product designed especially for painters and interior designers. Its colours create hues of unmatched complexity and depth.

You can’t help but linger and stroll through People looking for expert advice on window the beautiful pieces of home furnishings coverings and draperies can find it when and décor. But as you meander deeper, you talking to Tracy and Alberto’s daughter, Petra soon learn this is only a small part of a very Veintimilla, the window coverings consulcreative business. tant. Petra offers consultations and estimates Top quality paint and custom window free of charge, and she can show you endless coverings and draperies are the highlights possibilities in fabrics and designs. She is at Alberto’s, which has been a Pittsburgh particularly proud of Alberto’s line of Hunter Paints dealer for 35 years. Pittsburgh offers a Douglas blinds, featuring the Allustra Colfull line of products that are “always on the lection. Petra will actually visit your home cutting edge,” says Alberto’s co-owner Tracy and offer design and colour suggestions for Veintimilla, who runs the business with her window coverings and drapes. She really has husband Alberto Veintimilla. Many Pittsburgh a natural talent for this type of work, Tracy Paints have low VOCs (volatile organic com- says, adding the job at Alberto’s is very gratipounds), particularly the Pure Performance fying when you see a creative project from line, which has the lowest VOCs and ministart to finish. mal odour. You can paint your bedroom in You could say that decorating and being the morning and sleep in it that night without creative is in Tracy’s blood. It all started in an odour, Tracy says. her father’s paint store, where she mixed If you worry about cracking, flaking and paint when she was 14. It was just a “natupeeling, Pittsburgh offers a product called ral transition” for her to continue the family Timeless, a paint that carries a lifetime warbusiness. Originally established in 1972,

Alberto’s has been owned and operated by Tracy and Alberto since 1984.

What makes Alberto’s so unique today is the expanded giftware and home décor from Mexico,India and many other corners of the world. “We buy unique things (such as rustic Mexican pottery and art pieces) that you don’t see anywhere else,” Tracy says.

Staff at Alberto’s continually educate themselves by attending interior decorating courses and seminars. That’s how they stay current. Sales associate John Mullen takes great care in serving customers and answering their questions. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, John and Tracy can source the product and special order it for you.

Whether your interior decorating project is very small or very ambitious, Alberto’s can help you get it done with the right design, colour and flair. From painting a small room to covering the windows in a large character home, Alberto’s is your one-stop shop for all your needs.

Drop by to see Alberto’s large selection of paint, window coverings and wallpaper at 35628-97th St. Or call 250-498-4215 for more information. You can also visit Alberto’s website at www.albertosdecorating.com 

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HOME SERVICES 

CHERRY LANE SHOPPING CENTRE

OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

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AMOS REALTY

With over 45 years combined experience, the Amos team provides competent, efficient and friendly service. Back row: Trevor Amos, Pamela Carnegie, Brian Amos, Helen Leal and Kevin Dockett. Front row: Karen Amos, Sara Amos, Katie Amos and Lisa Amos. Missing from photo, Pam Arth.

Katie joins her family at Amos Realty

O

h, the irony of famous last words. Three years ago Katie Amos said she would never go into real estate like her parents Karen and Brian Amos.

Guess what? She got her licence in June.

“I decided that I didn’t want to work for someone else. I wanted to work for myself... to be my own boss.”

Well, she’s realizing that being your own boss is not as easy as it sounds when you’re trying to learn everything about a wellestablished business with a reputation for outstanding service. But despite the steep learning curve involved in selling real estate and managing property, Katie is taking the bull by the horns and diving right in. In fact, the 23-year-old has visions of taking over the business with her twin sister Sara.

Maybe the idea was planted in their brains subconsciously when mom and dad had them handing out flyers and stuffing envelopes in front of the TV when they

were kids. If there ever was a true definition of a “family business,” Amos Realty would be the poster child for it.

Katie’s brother Trevor is selling real estate for the company with his wife Lisa. Sara is getting ready to join the team, and their other sister Kelsey wants to manage the office. The four Amos siblings never saw themselves in real estate, but they sure do now.

“The biggest thing we can say is that we all get along like the Clampetts. We’re a close-knit family,” Karen said, noting that a lot of young adults come back to the Okanagan to work in their parents’ business.

Brian and Karen, who have 24 years experience in the business, have learned that success comes when you apply five principles: honesty, ethics, service, planning and education. If you don’t have a plan or research where the market is going, your business is going to be like an old, outdated sign blowing in the wind.

When it comes to service . . . “We take care of our clients like our own family.

We love what we do and we’re great at it,” Karen says.

Assisting the family is Helen Leal (office administrator), Pam Arth (office assistant)

and Kevin Dockett (licenced property manager).

What is most unique about Amos Realty is the fact that it’s now “generational selling.” Karen says she has sold properties to grandparents, parents and their children – three generations, which is the “best reference you can get.”

Katie is now showing many properties under the guidance of a special trainer.

During her first listing she was “flying by the seat of her pants,” which was the only way to start learning. But now she’s getting better, faster and more knowledgeable with each listing. The young realtor is continuing to upgrade her skills with various courses, such as a property management course that she will be starting in January.

“I want to learn everything,” Katie said without hesitation.

Katie’s goal with her sister Sara is to be the top realtors in this area. Call her to find out why and what she can do for you.

She can be reached by phone at 250-4984844, or you can drop by and see her at Amos Realty located at 35841-97th St. You can also visit the website at www. amosrealty.com. 

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SEARS & ALL ‘ROUND OUTFITTERS

Sears and All ‘Round Outfitters offers great variety with expert advice

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or many years, countless families across Canada have relied on Sears as their staple mail order company.

But one family in Oliver decided to expand the local outlet to include products for horse lovers and hunting enthusiasts. As a result, the business at 35633-99th St. offers something for everyone, even Greyhound bus passengers.

Bonnie Hayes saw a great opportunity to cater to a wide variety of people by combining all these elements under one roof. It reminds you of the old west mercantile stores, where you could buy almost anything. There are saddles, rifles, fishing gear and spurs.

The only thing missing is the post to tether your horse outside.

“Horses have always been a big part of my life, so I thought I’d bring both (horse tack and hunting supplies) together,” says Bonnie, who’s an avid deer hunter as well. (All Sears, All ‘Round Outfitters and Greyhound is ‘Round Outfitters is the name of the horse staffed by Faye Wiens and hunter component of the business.) (left), Bonnie Hayes and As a Sears outlet, the showroom features Sandy Knippelberg. various appliances, including fridges, stoves, microwave ovens, washers and dryers. It also includes vacuums, TVs, DVD players and seasonal Bonnie says the beauty of items such as lawnmowers and this business is you can air conditioners. Bonnie plans to bring in mattresses and sleep shop (order) from home sets as well. without the hectic, hustle Sears carries all major brands of appliances and products at and bustle associated with all price levels. Bonnie says the traffic and crowds. beauty of this business is you can shop (order) from home without the hectic, hustle and ries rifles, shotguns, ammunition, pellet bustle associated with traffic and crowds. guns and the Daisy Red Ryder BB gun kit.

That’s very important to a lot of people.

It also has game calls, scopes (Leupold opAssisting Bonnie in the store are her mother tics), gun cleaning supplies, scent eliminaFaye Wiens and Sandy Knippelberg. tors, targets, crossbows, hearing protection, Bonnie bought Oliver Saddle and Leather clothing and hunting licences. and incorporated it into All ‘Round OutfitOne unique product is a digital game ters. It has all your basic horse tack and camera with a memory card. You set up the healthcare products, including halters, camera at a location to monitor what type bridles, blankets and grooming supplies. of game is in the area.

It also carries saddles on consignment and If you’re looking for a particular firearm, it has a selection of cowboy hats and helmets can be special ordered for you. And for the for younger riders. Bonnie does a lot of special orders for people looking for specific angler, the store carries fishing rods, tackle and licences. tack and riding equipment. In addition, All Bonnie took over Oliver’s Greyhound bus ‘Round Outfitters carries Montana Silverservice last year. It has four buses a day; smiths western style jewelry. two travel to Osoyoos and two travel to For hunters and sportsmen, the store car-

Penticton, with connections to various parts of Canada and the U.S.. People with travel plans are invited to call or drop by to book their trips and receive their itineraries. The depot is also used to ship freight and packages to anywhere Greyhound travels.

Bonnie really enjoys meeting all the different people that the business attracts. “I want people to know about the variety that we offer.”

Drop by Sears during their open hours to pick up the latest seasonal catalogue for you to browse through in the comfort of your home.

For more information about Sears, All ‘Round Outfitters and Greyhound bus service, call 250-498-4324. 

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RUDYÕ S FLOORING Find warmth and trust at RudyÕ s Flooring

R

udy’s Flooring has been around since 1963 and for good reason, their customers feel like part of the family.

The display floor echoes with booming laughter as customers joke and engage owner Larry Miller and his wife Delia like old friends. The reason for the relaxed atmosphere is simple, everyone is treated with huge smiles, unbridled warmth and undivided attention.

Considering the recent economic downturn, that is a big reason Larry feels their business is still going strong. “It’s a combination of family atmosphere and great products which keep the customers coming back,” he said. “There is always competition, whether local or not, because flooring is a big ticket item. But I’ve been in the business for 33 years. My dad started in 1963 and I bought the business from him in 1991.”

As a flooring installer, Larry’s father taught him not only the tricks of the trade, but to respect local customers and to treat his employees honestly. “We have a good reputation for work because of our installers. I know what their work is like, and my customers trust them because I trust them,” he added. “In fact, two of my guys have been with me since I bought this business, and one is a childhood friend. We started in grade one together and graduated from SSOS in Oliver,” he said laughing.

Rudy’s Flooring, in Osoyoos, specializes in flooring for new single family homes and home renovations, as well as doing small condominium complexes and a few commercial applications. They carry a whole spectrum of flooring such as beautiful ¾ -inch hardwood, ceramic tiles, vinyl, laminates and cascading samples of colourful carpet to fit every home and lifestyle. You can also purchase area rugs of intricate patterns and colours, Tibetan wool rugs, and hemp rugs.

According to Larry, a growing market trend is cushioned vinyl flooring in a tile, wood or slate look, which lays down with or

without adhesive. He grabs a few and tosses them casually on the floor where they hit and stick instantly.

“You can place this flooring in the room and it will lay flat without corners coming up like the old paper backing, which has uneven surface pressure between the floor and the backing,” he added. “Some of it is such realistic texture, it looks just like an old wood floor. And now they make these colourful pieces for children’s’ rooms which can be easily rolled up and moved years later,” Larry said. “It‘s within the average budget and it really is amazing how ceramic tile and wood and all those hard services have made vinyl flooring get better over the years to compete.”

Rudy’s Flooring stays competitive because Larry knows his suppliers, some which have been around since the time of his father. His installers also are a trusted part of the business.

Larry stressed, “It’s important to trust your employees and that they trust you. And when you work in people’s homes, that’s pretty personal and people want to feel comfortable with the tradesmen,” he added, “I also have a good feel for my customers and I trust them in the way I deal with them, because they are friends and neighbours.” Many of Rudy’s Flooring customers will deal with them multiple times, even after selling a home. That, according to Larry is because of word of mouth referrals based on trust and quality service. Drop by Rudy’s flooring, browse the showroom or call 250-495-7224. 

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SHOPPERÕ S DRUG MART Like the cat, Naomi Garrish came back

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fter being away for 11 years, Naomi Garrish has returned to her home town of Oliver to be the new associate-owner of both Shoppers Drug Mart locations.

“It’s very exciting. Not everyone gets the opportunity to own their own store, let alone in their home town,” says Garrish.

The licenced pharmacist took over the Shoppers Drug Marts from former associate Alicia Shanks, who has recently moved to the Kootenays to continue her pharmacy career.

Garrish has always wanted to run her own pharmacy. In high school she decided that the health care field was where she wanted to be because there are always opportunities to continually learn in this field. After spending a year abroad in France on the Rotary Exchange, she studied biology at Okanagan University College in Kelowna, where she applied to the faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of British Columbia. After completing her degree, Garrish moved to the great white north, where she practiced as a pharmacist in Yellowknife for the past three years.

“I’m giving back to the (Oliver) community in hopes to provide services that people are looking for. I want to help them obtain a better quality of life,” says Garrish, who can be found behind the pharmacy counter as well as managing the stores.

Shoppers Drug Mart prides itself in carrying products that meet specific client needs.

It routinely stocks its shelves with products based on client feedback. Shoppers Drug Mart provides services to individuals as well as extended care homes and group homes.

It also offers compliance (blister) packaging for clients to help them better manage their medications.

“We try to listen to the customers, and our pharmacists always try to answer questions and go the extra mile,” Shanks says. “Our pharmacists will take the time to research on our clients’ behalf any questions or concerns that may be brought to their attention.”

The Health Watch pharmacist can set appointments with clients to perform comprehensive medication reviews. In these reviews, they will sit down with the clients and go over their medications to ensure that they are fully aware and comfortable with the medications that they are currently taking. The pharmacists can also identify areas that clients may benefit from medication adjustments or changes, and can help coordinate with their local physicians to help ensure continuity of care and that clients have the best outcomes.

Naomi Garrish is the new associate owner of Shoppers Drug Mart in Oliver. The certified pharmacist says Shoppers is meeting the needs of customers by bringing in products they want to see.

Terry Beckedorf from Shoppers Drug Mart in Oliver Place Mall checks her blood pressure with this in-store machine.

Front store manager Tom Kamann checks his inventory of herbs and other healthcare products.

Pharmacy staff are educated in compression stocking fitting, ensuring that clients get the right sizing to meet their needs, as well as providing assistance in choosing other mobility aides such as walkers, wheelchairs, crutches and bathing safety aides.

The Health Watch pharmacist is the most accessible health care provider and is available to help clients choose products to suit their needs, be it something to treat the seasonal cold or a vitamin supplement to give them more energy. Shoppers Drug Mart carries a full line of natural health products, and if you don’t see what you’re looking for on the

shelves, the staff would be more than happy to order it in for you.

Both stores carry a variety of seasonal products, stationery, cards and everyday household needs as well as several beauty lines. They also cater to those with a sweet tooth. Look for expanding product lines in the coming months!

With years of serving the community of Oliver, the knowledgeable staff are there to ensure you find what you are looking for and that your shopping experience is a positive one. Call 250-498-3663 (mall) or 250-4983388 (350 Ave). 

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

NUNES-POTTINGER FUNERAL SERVICE Nunes-Pottinger treats you like family with their dedicated staff and service

O

ne of the most rewarding careers that allow you to make long-lasting friendships in the community you serve may be a surprising revelation.

You might think operating a funeral service would not be rewarding at all considering the subject matter, but the opposite is true for John Nunes and Daryn Pottinger, owners of Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service and Crematorium in Oliver.

“I love my job. It gives me an opportunity to serve families at the most difficult time,” says Nunes, whose work is “extremely gratifying” because he develops strong relationships that last a lifetime.

Pottinger couldn’t agree more, saying you become immersed in the community by helping families in their time of need. “You don’t have to have all the answers, you just have to care about people.”

Nunes and Pottinger are celebrating their first anniversary in business at 34505-89th St. Nunes brings 28 years of experience to the business and is well respected for his professionalism and compassion. Like Nunes, Pottinger obtained his funeral director and embalmer’s certification and brings 10 years of experience in funeral service. Both Nunes and Pottinger continue to educate themselves by taking mandatory courses in order to keep their licences up to date.

But it’s really the caring and compassion that Nunes and Pottinger are known for.

“We’re here to bring people together.

We’re here for them unconditionally, no matter what. They phone you in the middle of the night or on Christmas day, we’re there 24-7,” Nunes says, adding that it’s very touching when people bring them food, gifts and goodwill invitations.

The services provided by Nunes, Pottinger and staff are extensive. They include cremation, burials, monument sales, cemetery headstones, urns (many made locally), caskets, graveside service and memorials. Their chapel seats 70 people. From the most basic funeral to shipping a body overseas, the business caters to all needs. Staff members also assist people in filling out government forms when there is a death in the family.

What makes the business unique is the fact it’s the only funeral home (south of Penticton) with an on-site crematorium. It’s also

Nunes-Pottinger brings many years of experience in funeral services. Shown here are dedicated staff, from left, Penelope Johnson, Lucille Hebting, Linda Nunes, John Nunes, Daryn Pottinger, Maurice Marty, Larry Schwartzenberger and Garry Doll. Missing from photo is Sally Hamilton.

one of the few funeral homes in the Okanagan that discloses its prices on its website, www.nunes-pottinger.com. Nunes says they list all the prices in order to be up front with people (so there are no surprises).

Pottinger says another service they offer is free online tributes on the website. People can email their condolences (with photographs), which are downloaded so that family members can view them.

Nunes says the feedback and support they’ve received during the first year in business have been tremendous. Of course,

Nunes and Pottinger could never do it all without their dedicated employees, including Linda Nunes, Penelope Johnson, Garry Doll, Larry Schwartzenberger, Lucille Hebting, Maurice Marty, Mike Evans and Sally Hamilton. Their sole objective is to serve families with respect, compassion and dignity.

Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service and Crematorium serves the South Okanagan, the Similkameen and the Boundary. For more information, call 250-498-0167 or visit the website, www.nunes-pottinger.com. 

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GORDON & YOUNG : Barristers and Solicitors

Alan Czepil is a lawyer with almost 30 years experience whose practice includes corporate and commercial transactions, real estate, wills, estates and family law mediation.

Gordon & Young has your legal bases covered

I

t’s sad to say, but a handshake isn’t what it used to be. And a gentleman’s agreement doesn’t hold much water anymore, especially in today’s world rife with legal complexities.

But the experienced team of Gordon & Young in Oliver can cover your bases and give you the peace of mind you need.

“We help people to get where they want to go with less risk. By anticipating and planning for future events, a lawyer can help you to avoid problems and save money in the long run,” says barrister and solicitor Alan Czepil, a lawyer with nearly 30 years’ experience. Czepil is a former litigator who now practices primarily as a solicitor in corporate and commercial transactions, real estate, and wills and estates. He is also a qualified family law mediator.

Czepil shares the firm’s legal duties with veteran lawyers G.A. Gordon and Peter Young, who work in their Osoyoos office.

Young practices in family law and wills and estates, while Gordon practices in corpo-

rate and commercial transactions, land development, real estate conveyances and mortgages.

The Oliver office at 36011-97th St. (formerly Pugh and Frank) is staffed by Czepil with help from legal assistants Mary Wardlaw and Judy Schweitzer, who each have more than 30 years’ experience. The message they want to convey is the firm has a wealth of knowledge and experience to deal with sophisticated legal issues.

“We’ve made changes and upgraded our systems and software to be more efficient in all areas and to provide more services in corporate commercial areas and wills and estates,” Czepil says.

Czepil’s litigation experience helps him as a solicitor to recognize the many pitfalls that people can encounter. He uses this knowledge to give practical advice to business people in all sorts of areas, including employment and commercial law. For example, if you go into business with someone, you need to cover all your bases and have answers to a lot of questions. Do you have a proper business plan? What if your partner gets sick? What if the two of you stop getting along? Do you have enough cash flow?

“A lot of people don’t plan for this, and it can get really ugly,” Czepil says, noting that Gordon and Young can help guide people

through the legal land mines and protect their investment.

The same goes for wills, Czepil says. Lots of things can go wrong when making up a will. He points out that law libraries are full of case decisions regarding disputes over poorly drafted wills and commercial agreements. With advice from a lawyer, you can save a lot of time and grief in the long run.

As a qualified family law mediator, Czepil assists parties in reaching agreements that they’re happy with. “We try to help people communicate with each other in a respectful and constructive way. An agreement is more likely to be successful if the agreement is reached by the parties themselves, rather than having it imposed on them by a judge.”

Czepil says he gets the most satisfaction from helping people solve their legal problems and assisting them in reaching their goals.

For Czepil, Gordon, and Young, being a lawyer means you have to keep learning.

That’s because the laws keep changing.

The Law Society of B.C. requires lawyers to take continuing legal education every year.

Czepil says this helps them stay current.

For more information on the legal services provided or to make an appointment call Gordon and Young, at 250-498-4941.

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

INNERVISIONS Innervisions: styling generations of hair

“I

t’s not just about hair anymore,” stated owner of Innervisions, Monica Nemes.

And with that one sentence, Monica Nemes put her finger on the pulse of a changing industry and her shop’s wholesome embrace of those adaptations.

“Innervisions is about all of you—hair, skin, nails, clothes, retail and two coin-operated sun tanning beds.”

Combine those changes with a dedicated outgoing staff whose professionalism is second nature and place them in a homey environment whose bygone architecture invites conversation, relaxation and repeated visits, and you have a formula for longterm success.

And Innervisions continues to thrive at their location on 350 Avenue. Monica opened her shop in the mid-1980s and looked for stylists who shared her philosophy that clients were individuals with varying needs.

Today she has Klaudia who has worked with her for nearly 21 years; Candice who joined Innervisions five years ago, Raechelle who is a recent staffer and Monica’s daughter, Sam who is their esthetician.

Aware of the current controversy regarding tanning beds, Nemes pointed out they have a role to play in skin health if used wisely. And hers are coin-operated so she can regulate the length of time people can use them.

Short periods under the lamps draw melanin to the surface of the skin; it acts as protection against sun-burning, which is where the problems start.

“These beds are more for protection than tanning purposes. I think it is important to get a base tan before people go away or before they work for long periods outside.”

And to emphasize the necessity of slow tan progression Monica insists travellers start using the beds several months prior to departure, not three weeks before their holiday.

With 30 years’ experience in her industry, Monica has seen hair fashion styles come and go

regularly. And while the current trend incorporates bigger curls and body, to her the real change involves the softer products now used by hair stylists.

“I think the hairdressing industry was one of the first ones to push for the removal of CFCs in hairsprays. And while it was more for our benefit, because we work with these products daily, it was a bonus for the client too.”

Award winning stylist Monica has also spent years competing, judging and she was a Joico International Colour technician for six years.

She and her staff believe the industry must cater to the whole individual and resist the call for target marketing.

“We should be able to deal with all age groups and hair styles and work on both males and females, because the industry is about people, not bits and pieces.”

The same holds true for the esthetics side of Innervisions.

Monica said they are very fortunate to have Sam on staff, because she had literally grown up in that environment. Sam absorbed Klaudia and her mother’s professionalism, their belief in client satisfaction and brought those core values to her own chosen field—the care of skin and nails.

“Sam has also taken extra training in nails and eyelash extensions and really keeps herself educated.” Monica noted that esthetics went mainstream when the industry realized health could not be segregated from fashion, there was merit in the saying, ‘if you feel good you look good,’ and it was a whole body process.

Moreover hairstylists and estheticians are often the first to witness changes in a regular client’s health—a wound that doesn’t heal or a darkening mole perhaps we could direct people to see their physician.

Ongoing training is a big part of the business Monica takes seriously. “I tell them: if you

Monica’s daughter Samantha is a trained esthetician who has grown up in the business and brings to it the same degree of professionalism her co-workers have shown in their work.

Monica (left) and Klaudia take a break for a smile.

Innervisions prides itself on communication between its staff members, saying it works to the client’s advantage. They believe interaction is one of the keys to their success as a business.

With the hustle and bustle at Innervisions the key is to book in advance to schedule your appointment with any of the wellqualified hair stylists. Candace is seen (right) putting the finishing touches to her client’s hair.

Raechelle, the most recent staff member, loves her position at Innervisions and shares her infectious smile with every customer that comes through the door.

can come home with one new technique, you’ve paid for the class, because you can add it to your repertoire. And that’s what changes hairstyles.”

Innervisions is open from 8

a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, and open late on Wednesday evening until 9 p.m. and Thursday evening until 8 p.m. Call Innervisions at: 250-498-3064

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OSOYOOS PHYSIOTHERAPY

Osoyoos Physiotherapy is serious about your health and well-being, naturally

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hysiotherapy has come a long way from the early nineteenth century when massage and manipulation were seen as being outside the pale of medical science. But today it is serious business as a drug-free health care practice.

At Osoyoos Physiotherapy, owner Sally Lindley-Jones works with a staff of registered physiotherapists which include Shirley Nilsson who recently joined the team after moving from Vancouver and who is a Part “A” manual therapist, and Carol Metcalfe, who offers additional assessment and prescriptions for foot Orthodics. Together they provide the community with a varied skill set of coverage to treat many different types of conditions and injuries. The team works well together, specializing in their areas of expertise to reduce pain levels, improve function and assist people to return to their daily

activities. They are supported up front by three receptionists: Mary Larson, Louise Snider and Liz Spear.

Lindley-Jones graduated as a physiotherapist from the Manchester Royal Infirmary in Britain in 1978. She purchased her clinic in 1984 and now much of her work comes from word of mouth.

“We help clients break down the barriers to physical function whether that means working with clients pre and post surgery, helping them come back from illness and chronic disease, injury, industrial and motor vehicle accidents or age related conditions,” she said. Treatment can include

The staff at Osoyoos Physiotherapy know what type of therapy best suits their clients.

therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, electrical modalities such as TENS or ultrasound, and work hardening.

The team works hard to gain increased mobility, and achieve an independent lifestyle and wellness for their clients. Although sports medicine and rehabilitation make up a large component of their day, people experiencing ailments such as bursitis, repetitive strain, aches, pains or other traumas are also helped. Clients may be attended to in curtained off areas for one-on-one treatments or experience an exercise component in the spacious front “playground,” where they use hula hoops, tossing rings, balls, stacking blocks and indoor basketball hoops to achieve specific goals.

“That is what makes us different from other clinics,” Lindley-Jones replied. “Our approach puts people at ease because we have fun.” This is evident in the gregarious, social atmosphere between the team, confirmed by punctuated laughter throughout the clinic.

Clients are often put at complete ease as they realize they’re involved in a family atmosphere, which works well in helping them learn about their health and making it better. Lindley-Jones says this has helped the clinic run more smoothly, allowing them to get to know their clients better

and understand their individual needs.

“My preference is in neurology,” she added, which means she tackles diseases or injuries such as strokes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy and spinal cord injury, as these impact everyday life activities.

“We are here to restore the highest possible levels of independence to our clients, all through a nurturing community to work through the healing process,” she said.

Often clients are so disabled, they are unable to come in for a visit. In such cases, Lindley-Jones assists caregivers in assessing what type of chair or walker they may need to use at home.

As such, everyone can benefit from physiotherapy. Sometimes patience will be required to get normalcy back again, but Lindley-Jones and her staff are ready to help patients regain confidence and set them on the road to recovery. Physiotherapy not only helps to treat problems, but can provide needed knowledge to prevent and manage chronic ones.

Clinic hours are Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm and no doctor referral is required unless your visit is covered by a third party insurer like WCB, extended benefits plan, or DVA. Clients are accepted at 250-495-2225. 

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PHILLIP R. SIMMS LTD. Phil Simms always has your number(s)

P

hil Simms has been around a long time and for good reason. He is a top-notch accounting whiz.

Many people loathed mathematics when they were kids. Fractions and division got them into more trouble at school than anything else. But not Phil Simms; he thrived on all those numbers and constantly sought the answers to challenging problems. That’s why he is a chartered accountant today.

“I loved the challenge of numbers and was always looking for the answer (first),” Simms said in his office at 9315C-350th Ave. It was only natural that Simms obtained his CA designation after completing high school. Even with 27 years’ experience, he’s still learning.

Simms offers many services, including financial statement reports, personal and corporate income tax returns, payroll and bookkeeping. He also does a lot of perChartered Accountant sonal income tax returns for farmers and Phil Simms is one busy guy. He’s always on the orchardists. phone or the computer Because government budgets often affect working on income tax income tax rules, you have to understand returns for his clients. how they impact your situation.

Simms offers many services, That’s what Simms including financial statement reports, does. Once doing the research on any personal and corporate income tax changes, he applies returns, payroll and bookkeeping. He that to your tax return to get the best also does a lot of personal income tax advantage possible. returns for farmers and orchardists.

For example, a new budget could affect your income tax return relating to the Child Tax Benefit or the Home Renovation Beryle Oravec is Phil’s Tax Credit. These are the things you need office manager and the to know. first person to greet you “The Income Tax Act forces you to always for all your tax needs. be learning,” said Simms, who attends a The accountant said many businesses seminar every year on income tax updates. fail because they don’t know what their It is mandatory for chartered accountants financial needs are to keep them on the like Simms to attend professional developroad to success. Although Simms has ment courses and seminars on a yearly been successful in his own business, he basis. This keeps their CA certifications never encouraged his children to follow current. The other way he stays current is in his footsteps. Why? Because you have through questions asked by his clients. to put in so many hours to the point that it Simms finds real satisfaction in his job interferes with family life. Simms recalled when he is given the opportunity to help starting work at 6:30 a.m. and not getting clients in their business ventures.

“It’s a pleasure to help them develop their home until 2 a.m. the next day. He did that for several weeks straight during income business and watch them grow (and be tax time. successful). I’ve developed a lot of longComputers have made income tax filing term relationships with my clients. I still much easier these days. You don’t have to have clients that I met 27 years ago.”

know math because the computer does it for you. But Simms has this to say about the technology behind computers: “Computers don’t make you any smarter, they just let you make mistakes faster.”

Simms recalled when he first started preparing tax returns; you had to do it all by hand. And every time you made a mistake, you had to start all over again with a new form. Thankfully we’re in the 21st century.

For more information on the services offered by Simms, contact his office at 250498-6271 to speak to accounting technician Beryle Oravec. Or you can email Simms at psimmsca@persona.ca. 

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

EXPERT HEARING

Office assistant Michele Spillett (left) and hearing instrument specialist Vanessa McLean invite people to Expert Hearing Solutions at 9151B-350th Ave in Oliver (next to Shoppers Drug Mart).

Expert Hearing listens with compassion

K

nowing your parents’ hearing is deteriorating to the point of isolation and depression is a painful thing to watch.

You lose patience with them because you’re always repeating yourself, and you start to exclude them from conversations, despite the fact you still love them. Soon, they stop asking you to “say that again” and just smile a lot. They can start withdrawing from social contact.

This scenario happens all too often. But thankfully there’s a solution, and an expert one at that.

Expert Hearing Solutions in Oliver offers adult and pediatric consultations, tinnitus assessments and treatment, a complete selection of digital hearing technology and flexible financing.

Vanessa McLean, BSc, is the hearing instrument specialist in the Oliver clinic at 9151B-350th Ave. (next to Shoppers Drug Mart).

She is joined by office assistant Michele Spillett. McLean performs hearing assessments and adjusts the sound on hearing aids. She also offers advice on hearing instruments as well as amplified listening devices for the home

environment.

“I love my job. I love the satisfaction of having someone sit in my office and tell me how they can hear the birds and conversations,” says McLean, who feels great when she’s able to help people regain their hearing.

The company, owned by president Rob Reiter, is a thirdparty service provider to WCB, Department of Veterans Affairs, National Indian Brotherhood and the RCMP. It performs hearing tests for police officers and border guards.

Expert Hearing has a 100-day trial period with a 100 per cent money-back guarantee. It also has one of Canada’s only on-site repair labs in the Okanagan. Spillett is in the clinic full time for appointment scheduling, cleaning and general maintenance of hearing aids, which come in several varieties, including digital, programmable and conventional.

McLean says what makes the business so special is the outstanding customer service. For example, one client was having difficulty getting accustomed to her hearing aids. In fact, this went on for two years. McLean persevered and fitted her with a hearing aid that finally worked to the woman’s satisfaction.

“She loves them and thanked me for not giving up on her. Now she

can hear in church, she can hear her husband and her children.”

McLean says a person’s hearing health is crucial to overall health, noting it’s vital to deal with hearing loss when it starts. Hearing loss can be sudden, but for the most part, it is very gradual, she says.

Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common, and many people suffer this form of loss on the job.

“People don’t notice they’re losing their hearing until they start saying ‘pardon me’ a lot.”

McLean strongly advises people to take preventive measures to protect their hearing. For example,

wear hearing protection when mowing the lawn. And turn down those iPods, she urges, noting the children of today will be the next generation wearing hearing aids.

Speaking of hearing aids, the new technology inside them is “phenomenal,” McLean says. She points to the “open fit” model that is very inconspicuous and only takes a month to get accustomed to. Its technology includes noise suppression, speech clarity and feedback cancellation. In other words, it stops the squealing before it starts. Call Expert Hearing Solutions, 250-498-2966. 

Expert Hearing Solutions in Oliver offers adult and pediatric consultations, tinnitus assessments and treatment, a complete selection of digital hearing technology, flexible financing and excellent customer service. Come in and see office assistant Michele Spillett (left) and Vanessa McLean, the clinicÕ s hearing instrument specialist.

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY Women finding better health at new fitness centre

I

t’s “For Your Eyes Only” . . . women’s eyes, that is. No, it’s not the latest “Jane Bond” movie, it’s the new fitness centre in Oliver, exclusively for women.

The centre, formerly known as “Curves,” offers women of all ages a chance to empower themselves through exercise and female camaraderie. Located above the Oliver Public Library, the centre features 11 workout machines, a private weigh scale and measuring room and a large bathroom. It also has a fat loss monitor and will soon feature a treadmill and bicycle exercise equipment.

Manager Audrey Evans says the hydraulic workout machines focus on upper and lower body fitness, including cardiovascular exercise.

Evans trains women how to properly use the machines for maximum benefit. The fitness program is based on a 30-minute “circuit,” where you spend 30 seconds on each machine. The machines work the biceps, legs, shoulders, hips, chest, back and abdomen.

Stretching at the end of the circuit cools down the body and loosens the muscles, adding another 15 minutes to the program.

“As you age your bone density breaks down. A lot of women

think that walking is enough exercise, but it’s not enough,” Evans says.

The former manager of Curves points out that women who exercise regularly wouldn’t need walkers or wheelchairs in their later years. She noted that two members of the fitness centre are 91 years old and still exercising.

Pat Wessel, a member of For Your Eyes Only, doesn’t just come for the exercise, she comes for the social atmosphere.

Evans says the open house they hosted attracted approximately 200 women, which is the magic number that the centre needs for membership . . . in order to continue operating. The centre would not have opened at all if local businessman Alberto Veintimilla ignored the requests from a number of women to keep it open after Curves closed its doors.

“It was a really tough decision, but they encouraged me to do it,” Alberto says, noting that he’s willing to take a risk in order to promote women’s health and fitness.

For Your Eyes Only member Betty McIvor holds onto a fat loss monitor while manager Audrey Evans looks on.

Fitness centre manager Audrey Evans shows off the weigh scale that members can use to weigh themselves which is a crucial step in weight loss.

Alberto confirms they need 200 clients to keep the centre open. If they don’t reach that number by the end of the year, he will have no choice but to close the doors because he can’t afford to lose money. But he wants to dwell on the positive by advocating the importance of fitness.

“The reason I decided to open the centre is to educate ladies in the area to learn how to look after themselves and to ensure they will have quality of life for their later years.”

Alberto says the only way women can get quality of life and to maintain bone density

and strength is through exercise, weights and supplements. He notes that regular fitness results in more energy and a sense of well-being.

As a special reduced rate for new members, the cost is $99 until December 31, or $45 per month. As of January 1, 2010, the membership fee is $150. The fee remains at $45 per month if you buy a one-year membership.

Otherwise, the cost is $65 per month. Alberto says these rates are very reasonable compared to other fitness centres.

For more information, drop in or call 250-498-8896. 

For Your Eyes Only manager Audrey Evans (right) assists fitness centre member Pat Wessel on the arm curls machine.

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LAKESIDE TRAVEL

Lakeside Travel provides a world of experience at your fingertips

T

here’s an old saying that goes, ‘If you love what you do it can hardly be called work.”

For Deb and Mel McCallum, proprietors of Osoyoos’ Lakeside Travel, it’s more than a cliché; it’s a way of life.

It was nearly 30 years ago, during an extended backpacking adventure that the couple came up with the idea of combining work with play. “This was before the kids came along,” explained Deb. What followed were three boys and a thriving travel agency, which the couple started in 1984. Deb describes the business as “a real mom and pop shop.”

Mel McCallum would be pleased to offer his travel expertise anytime. Below, Deb takes a break in the sunshine.

A lot has changed in the industry over the past 20 years, thanks to the advent of the Internet. While some in the industry worried themselves into a tizzy, Lakeside Travel embraced the change. “It’s been an interesting tool,” said Mel, of the Internet’s impact on the travel industry.

“It’s helped us to explore new avenues of the business.” As it happens, the information highway is a wonderful trip on its own, but it doesn’t stop at all the required landmarks.

“The Internet doesn’t ask you if you need cancellation insurance,” explained Deb. “If you’re stuck overseas and need an answer or help with something, you’re not going to get it by filling in an online questionnaire.” And, unlike a faceless website, booking your holiday through an agency comes with protection, via the Travel Assurance Fund. Licensed agencies protect their client’s interests by contributing to the fund. If a hotel closes down, or a labour dispute threatens your travel plans, you’re protected. All things considered, said Deb,

Sue Powlesland stands beside owner Mel McCallum. Centre is Deb McCallum next to Maryann Juozaitis. Together these four individuals offer top notch travel experience.

“It’s not a problem.”

Between the McCallums and their staff, it’s safe to say they’ve been around the world.

Employee Maryann Juozaitis, the resident trekker, has been up and down mountains in India, Nepal, Tibet and China and knows a thing or two about Russia, Peru and Thailand. Sue Powlesland has traveled extensively through the South Pacific, Europe and Asia, combining both leisure and adventure travel into a broad range of experience.

Lakeside Travel has put together cycling trips along the River Rhine, adventure travel in Turkey and river and ocean cruises, too. It’s part of the new travel paradigm, explained Deb. “We’re seeing a lot of people who are interested in eco-tourism, and volunteer travel.” By that she means folks who want to positively impact the area they are visiting.

The women of Lakeside Travel have also been busy putting together lady-centric holidays, in a not-so-exclusive club known as the ‘Getaway Gals.’ Most recently, a group of 20 women returned from New York City, where they attended Broadway shows, visited Carnegie Hall and more. Ladies-only holidays are planned for September,

Deb and Maryann take time out to preview travel destinations that could be suited especially for you.

and have included hikes in the Cathedral Mountains, wilderness retreats, kayaking along the Sunshine Coast and coastal cruises.

Deb offered some advice for folks that may be affected by the closure of BCAA’s travel agency storefronts. “If you’re planning a trip south, make sure to give us a call. We can provide timely information about hotels, car rentals, tours, medical insurance and more.”

An extra service from the folks at Lakeside Travel includes delivery of tickets to Oliver.

If you’re bitten with the travel bug call Lakeside Travel in Osoyoos, at 250-495-2646. 

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

BONNIE DOON

Bonnie Doon Health Supplies maintains a heritage touch

I

f you want to buy supplements, then visit any vitamin store in the South Okanagan...

But if you desire the trust factor of experience, coupled with a remarkable wealth of education and exceptional personal service, then look no further than Bonnie Doon Health Supplies in Osoyoos, British Columbia.

Located at 8515 A Main Street, it’s a family business, located in Osoyoos for over 40 years and run by owner Diane Nelson and her sister, assistant manager Sharon Perozuk.

Diane is an unassuming, soft spoken woman who simply oozes passion for what she does. “Bonnie Doon has been here since 1968, so this is an established heritage business,” she beamed with a wide grin. “We have lasted this long because we don’t simply sell products, we sell solutions and help people along their path to better health.”

She added, “We are not only stocked up with the best anti-flu products to shore up the immune system, but we also carry a full line-up of supplements, including vitamin and herbal remedies, fitness nutrition, gluten-free foods and natural skin care.”

As a baby boomer herself, Diane focuses on anti-aging and restorative products. She emphasized that skin care is important as women are looking for more natural, regenerative and non toxic products for their skin.

“I also use Oxylift, a device for repairing skin and wrinkles,” she said. “We became the Oxylift distributor here about a year ago and

my customers just love it.”

Diane also mentioned that Bonnie Doon and Naka Sales have teamed up to bring you the best in preventative health products. Naka is a Canadian family owned company which specializes in quality natural health supplements. Naka supports Bonnie Doon Health Supplies as their only authorized distributor in Osoyoos.

One of the most important elements at Bonnie Doon Health Supplies is the experience factor, which Diane coins as a better teacher than book knowledge alone. However this has not caused her to sit still with education.

As well as being a reflexologist, Diane has studied extensively in nutrition, vitamins and phytotherapy.

“I study body work and natural healing techniques, and have done some work with Kinesiology so I may test my customers to help find the most effective supplements,” she said. “If we cannot help them, we try to send them to one of the natural practitioners on our trusted healers list.”

Bonnie Doon is also a distributor for water and air purifier-ionizers, far infrared saunas, and thermo-Tec pain heating pads. To broaden the variety of healing services, Diane offers foot spa detox treatments with rotary foot massage. An electromagnetic balancing table used for de-stressing is also available to her customers, as well as free wellness counseling from Wednesday to Fridays.

With such a wide variety of effective health products, superb

Bonnie Doon’s is located in sunny Osoyoos, conveniently at 8515 A Main Street.

Diane Nelson, the owner of Bonnie Doon, stands in the Fitness and Diet section showing off some of the vast array of products in her store.

customer service, and the chance to probe Diane’s mind for those nuggets of health wisdom, it’s little wonder that customers travel to her store from Penticton, OK Falls, Oliver and from across the border. Some come as far away as Grand Forks, Midway, Greenwood, Cawston, and Keremeos.

“I truly care about my customers’ health and I love what I do,” she said. “I search out the latest information for all sorts of problems and try to help everyone that walks through the door. Every customer here gets our undivided attention.”

Drop in or call 250-495-6313 for more information. 

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

SUNSHINE WELLNESS GROUP

S

unshine Wellness Group is a multidisciplinary office consisting of Chiropractic Care, Professional Counselling Services, Registered Massage Therapy, and Dental Hygiene Services. We are located in the Okanagan College building at D9315- 350th Avenue, Oliver.

We always welcome new patients, so feel free to drop by the office or give any of us a call. We are here to help.  Sunshine Wellness Group offers a variety of cutting-edge health services. From left, Kelly Forrest, Charles Foresi, Brandt Leinor and Sue Leinor. These professionals provide well-being and expert advice on your health.

Dr. Leinor’s practice offers both relief care and wellness care. He has been practicing in the Oliver area for nine years caring for a full spectrum of chiropractic patients with a special emphasis on caring for seniors. Whether you are a senior suffering from an arthritic back, a seasoned athlete with recurring knee pain or a teenager with chronic headaches, we are here to help! Chiropractic doctors are trained to address many conditions related to your spinal health and not just back pain. Our office is open Monday, Wednesday & Friday from 7:30am - 5:00pm. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 250-498-3880, or visit www.sunshinechiropractic.ca  Kelly Forrest is a Registered Massage Therapist who has been practicing in Oliver for the past two and a half years. Massage is a part of a healthy lifestyle that can help with a number of different problems including, back aches, tendonitis, migraines, fibromyalgia, and stress relief. Kelly also practices prenatal massage and CranioSacral Therapy. She is in the office five days a week, Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 250-485-7823. 

Welcome to Solay Dental Hygiene, Oliver’s first Dental Hygiene Clinic! Sue Leinor is a Registered Dental Hygienist bringing 11 years of experience to her independent dental hygiene clinic. A variety of services are offered at Solay Dental Hygiene including: dental cleanings, polishing and cosmetic whitening. The clinic is open Monday to Saturday offering convenient late-day appointments as well. Fees charged are in accordance with the BC Dental Hygienist Association fee guide, with most dental insurance plans accepted. No referral is necessary, so anyone is welcome to become a patient at Solay Dental Hygiene. For more information, or to schedule your appointment, please call 250-498-9138, or visit www.solaydentalhygiene.ca  Charles Foresi is a Registered Professional Counsellor and has a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. Charles has been granted the designation of (MPCP) Master Practioner Counselling Psychology by the Canadian Professional Counselling Association. He brings his life experience, compassion and 26 years of counselling expertise to his practice. Charles is a specialist in the fields of Trauma, Addictions and Bereavement. Charles is a fully Certified, Licensed Chaplain, and because of this marriage of spiritual as well as psychological training, Charles brings to his counselling practice a unique blend of abilities. He can counsel in either a spiritual or secular setting in comfort. Phone: 250-485-8979 or www.michaelslight.ca. 

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

ATHINAÕS DESERT DAY SPA AthinaÕ s Desert Day Spa takes you away

I

t’s amazing what a little pampering can do for your mood and self-esteem.

It’s amazing what a little pampering can do for your mood and self-esteem. Whether it be a manicure, a facial or full body treatment, it’s bound to make you feel good about yourself.

That’s the basic philosophy at Athina’s Desert Day Spa in Oliver, where you come away feeling invigorated after one of many treatments by their licened estheticians. In fact, the business was voted “Best Day Spa” in Okanagan Life magazine in 2006 and 2007.

The business not only offers manicures, pedicures, facials and body treatments, including massage, it also carries a full line of organic skin care and mineral cosmetics. In addition, it sells professional nail polish, foot care products, soy candles from Granville Island Candle Company and top quality hand moisturizers and sanitizers.

Athina’s owners Donna Agostinho and Sylvia Norman are certified estheticians with many years of experience. They continue to educate themselves and their employees on the products and the application methods involved in treatments.

“Our skin care and makeup lines have expanded to focus on health and education for our staff as well as for our clients,” says Athina’s manager Katie Rattray, who is also the Okanagan educator for Eminence Organics.

Athina’s Desert Day Spa is committed to excellence. To ensure that commitment they carry the world’s first and leading certified organic skincare – Eminence Organics. Using whole fruits, veggies and herbs, this Hungari-

AthinaÕ s stocks only high-end beauty products packed with ingredients to soothe your soul.

an line is designed to be a raw food diet for your skin. Containing no synthetics, the all organic ingredients make it easy to digest for the natural function of the skin. These premium ingredients are all hand-picked, hand-harvested and hand-made in Hungary without mass production and heating processes This ensures a high fruit content and high level of active ingredients that offers dramatic results as seeds, pulps and peels begin to address your specific skin’s needs. Eminence addresses a variety of skin concerns such as aging, acne and much more. Let the aromas treat your senses and let them share with you what Hungarian beauties have known for centuries.

What makes Athina’s unique is the building at 34214 Hwy 97, which lends itself perfectly to the business. It’s a lovely heritage home that was built in 1952. With about 2000 square feet, it has lots of space for beautiful treatment rooms.

“Our signature is the home,” Katie says, noting it’s very inviting and cozy.

Athina’s is there to make clients feel great about themselves. The fact is when people look good they feel good. Some clients become quite emotional during treatments because they’re so happy to undergo a

positive change.

Another unique aspect about Athina’s Desert Day Spa is that employees don’t shy away from the human touch. Katie notes that touching the hands of a client goes a long way, especially in a society where contact doesn’t happen voluntarily anymore.

But Katie is the first to point out that sanitation is very important at Athina’s. For example, staff members are required to wear gloves during certain procedures in order to address safety and health concerns.

So stop in at this pleasant business where they take your stresses away with the first hello. Whether it is to treat yourself, check out their ever-changing retail boutique, or to find the gift that everyone’s giving (a gift certificate), this place should not be missed on your drive through town.

Call Athina’s at: 250-498-3363 or visit the website at www.athinasdesertdayspa.com. 

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PERSONAL SERVICES 

JORG MARDIAN New therapy clinic expands Jorg Mardian’s natural health business

W

hen it comes to overall health, local fitness expert Jorg Mardian has a few opinions on accepted standards.

He doesn’t acknowledge the notion that the body needs to become debilitated as we age, and he encourages his clients to excel in their new lifestyle.

As a Certified Fitness Trainer, Certified Kinesiology Specialist, Fitness Therapist and Registered Nutritionist, Jorg applies effective health principles to dramatically change people’s lives. The numbers don’t lie either. His knowledge in the health field, coupled with an impeccable customer satisfaction record, has tripled his business in the last few years.

“Most of my clients come from word of mouth mainly because my business model is to achieve more success for them than they themselves seek,” he said. “ I never give up on anyone and I’ll spend as much time as needed to educate them for long-term success.”

Many days Jorg can be found at either the Cactus Tree Inn or the Oliver Parks and Recreation Centre gyms, where he is their on-call Fitness Trainer.

There he focuses on functional

fitness, using five classic components: muscular strength, endurance, body composition, cardiovascular capacity, and flexibility.

Another aspect of his business is conducting corporate or public seminars throughout the South Okanagan on nutrition, disease prevention, fitness demonstrations, or improving back health. And a role many in Oliver enjoy is Jorg’s involvement as a group instructor for the Oliver Parks and Recreation Society.

“We really try to offer unique and up to date classes, as we not only look to lose calories, but to build lean muscle and increase strength and mobility for everyday movement,” he said. “And I believe we offer the only program in the Okanagan (Gentlefit), that is uniquely tailored for individuals to overcome injuries, or for seniors or anyone who is intimidated by a regular fitness class.”

Jorg’s latest venture is opening an Injury/Pain Therapy clinic at the end of November

Jorg’s therapy clinic is one-of-a-kind for Oliver and long overdue. Drop by for a visit at his new location or make an appointment that could change your life.

Jorg Mardian: CPT, CKS, FT, RHN has brought positive changes to so many people’s lives. His support, knowledge and positive approach gets the results you want.

in Oliver’s Okanagan College building (beside New Beginnings Hair Design).

“This was a natural progression for me because I deal with so many injuries on a daily basis, “ he stated. “As a Fitness Therapist, I employ extremely effective muscle balance protocols for neck, back, knee or other pains which follow a three step criteria. These involve identifying the problem through a thorough assessment, treating the symptoms by focusing on correcting the dysfunction and then overcoming the muscle imbalances that initially created the condition.”

Jorg says that many injuries, inflammations and body pains are merely the result of tight, weak muscles or muscle imbalances and he believes that his therapy, tailored to specific muscles or parts of the body, can return a convalescing pa-

tient to functioning condition.

“I’ve worked hard to build the trust of doctors, physiotherapists, ICBC and WCB and it has paid off in increased referrals,” he said. I position myself as part of the overall health care team to most effectively help in overcoming muscular pain, soft tissue injuries or lack of movement.”

Few people are more passionate, professional and committed to their chosen vocation than Jorg Mardian. His success lies in proven therapeutic pain and injury protocols and his sessions are uniquely tailored to each individual. So if you suffer from back, hip or knee pain, sciatica, repetitive strain injury, arthritis or even a herniated disk, Jorg’s therapy may be for you. The Pro Health Therapy Clinic is open by appointment only and the phone number is 250-498-2727. 

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THE OLIVER CHRONICLE

The staff at the Oliver Chronicle: Editor; Patrick Keller, Office manager; Alana Gulick, Publisher; Susan Valentine, Sales manager; Esther Seidel, and Graphic designer, Angela Moore.

The Oliver Chronicle steps into the future

T

he Chronicle has experienced many technological changes during its 72-year history.

would be transferred to the plate. The plate was hung on the press and the image was transferred to the paper. This was known as offset printing.

The press evolved to become a large machine using the continuous rolls of newsprint that will be familiar to most of Originally lead type was set by hand and our readers. Depending on the page count the paper was printed on flat sheets on these presses will run the entire newspaletterpress equipment. Essentially this was per in one pass, cutting and folding it off a craft process, printing one sheet at a time the end of the machine and delivering a and hand folding the paper using a flat finished product. ivory bone to make a neat crease.

The third great wave of technological Over the years the technology was rechange at the Chronicle was the move to fined in various ways and passed through digital images and the advent of desktop different permutations, eventually resultpublishing. Now all the material in the paing in photo typesetting and web press per; advertising, editorial, and photography printing. Then type could be set in strips, is imported into specialized software runoften on an IBM Selectric typewriter or ning on MAC computers. The completed something similar. Changes were made pages are sent to the press digitally and with an Exacto knife, literally cutting these digital images are processed direct type to fit. Many a sliced finger ruined a to plate without (in most cases) ever being page of clean type. Once the blood was touched by a human hand. cleaned off a film negative was made of So the Chronicle must continually adapt the finished result. This film was shot in an to technological change and this requires enormous horizontal camera that you can continuous change to the skills of the emstill see in the Chronicle office. The nega- ployees. Richard Schaffrick, who still works tive was then set on a printing plate that occasionally for us today, started his career was chemically treated to be sensitive to at the paper when type was still being set light. Both pieces were exposed to a strong by hand. light source and the image on the negative However, even though the process

changes, some aspects of the newspaper have remained constant for 72 years and will continue to apply as long as we continue to publish.

Our first job has always been to serve our readers. We need to present information in such a way that a reader is able to understand the facts and draw his or her own conclusion about the issues that face the community. Our news reporting needs to be objective and non-judgmental.

We need to insure that we give voice to a range of opinions and ideas and that the entire community is represented in the pages of the paper. We have to let our subjects speak for themselves and be careful not to put words into the mouths of others.

Our graphics department must produce advertising that is of high quality and meets the ethical standards for truthfulness. We want your ad to stand out and be as interesting to our readers as well as the editorial material.

Although we operate the paper we are always aware that we have a trust agreement with the community.

In the final analysis it is your paper. You support it by buying it, advertising in it, discussing it and debating with it. In return you expect us to be diligent and honest in the pursuit of our work. Call 250-498-3711. 

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OLIVER BUSINESS MAGAZINE, FALL/WINTER 2009

GRAHAM FUNERAL HOME Service beyond expectation Since 1936

Our staff is committed to your complete satisfaction. We pride ourselves on the quality of service and our dedication to the communities where we live and work.

Come meet the staff Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 pm.

Evenings, Saturday and Sunday by appointment THEN

Courtesy of Oliver District Historical Society

NOW

Courtesy of sochamber.ca

Blaine Krist received his Funeral Director’s license from Humber College and has many years’ experience working in funeral homes in Ontario and British Columbia. He has continued his education by taking extensive courses in funeral service including prearranged planning and bereavement. Blaine served in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1974 to 1986, achieving the rank of Captain, before retiring in 1986. Blaine is a past president of the Lions Club in Trail, B.C., and has sat on the board of Directors of the “Dreams to Memories Foundation” as vice-president. Blaine has been an active member of the Knights of Columbus and the Royal Canadian Legion. For many years Blaine was very active in minor sports; coaching hockey and soccer and umpiring baseball and softball.  Kate Krist received her business degree from Mohawk College and began her 20-year career in newspaper advertising. Kate then spent several years as coordinator for the “Dreams to Memories Foundation,” working as the liaison among doctors, social workers and families. Kate followed her husband into the funeral business in the late 1990s. Kate is a past president of the Catholic Women’s League and has volunteered with hospital auxiliaries. Kate presently is a member of the Soroptimists of Osoyoos and the South Okanagan Business Network. Kate and Blaine have one son, Cory who resides in Kelowna.  Gail Torgerson and her husband Brent moved to Osoyoos four years ago after spending many years working for the Government of Canada Immigration Department and the Ministry of Human Resources for the Provincial Government. Gail also worked for Dr. Carl Weber at Honu Chiropractic Life Centre in Osoyoos.

Gail has two children, one living on the coast and the other in Ontario. As a member of the Soroptimist Club of Osoyoos, Gail is enjoying the friendships and spirit of service to her community. Gail‘s experience and friendliness are a welcomed addition to Graham Funeral Home.  Vince P. Harvey and his wife, Maria, moved to Oliver from Edmonton, Alberta three years ago to retire and enjoy everything the South Okanagan has to offer. Vince retired from the Mechanical Inspections Team as a Site Superintendent with the City of Edmonton. Vince is a Past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, and an active member of Christ the King Church in Oliver and other community groups. Vince and Maria have five children and 11 grandchildren. Vince is enjoying his work assisting Blaine during funerals.  Rob Verbann was raised in Coquitlam, B.C., graduated from Centennial Senior Secondary School, then joined the Canadian Military. Rob joined the Graham staff in 2009 as a Funeral Attendant after retiring from the military after 20 years of service to his country. Rob and wife Shelley Ruschke chose Oliver as their home with sons Daniel and Jonathon to be close to family in Oliver and Osoyoos. Rob worked as a mechanic for 15 years and has spent the last five years as a fully trained firefighter. Rob is a member of the South Okanagan Business Network. Blaine and Kate are happy to have Rob assisting them at the funeral home. 

Graham Funeral Home

34616 99th St. Oliver, BC (250) 498-3833 fax (250) 498-3317