SPRING 2013
PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE Olaf Robrecht
ICON Okanagan The Premier Lifestyle Magazine Volume 3, Issue 2
Yes, it’s GLOSSY !
How do you like our new look? Not only have we changed the style of our cover, we’ve decided to give it a little more shine as well. Yes, we listen to what our readers say ... and the glossy cover was your number 1 suggestion. Check! The cover is not the only change, a lot has happened in the last 3 months. Our ICONic team is steadily growing, both with clients and new team members. Joining our team is fashion journalist and style correspondent Deborah Lampitt-McConnachie (see page 54) and Gayle Faigan who will start a new column in the upcoming Summer issue.
PUBLISHERS Olaf Robrecht robrecht@icon-okanagan.com Julian Snarski jsnarski@icon-okanagan.com Julian Snarski
ADVERTISING SALES Don Jack, Deborah LampittMcConnechie
One of the greatest days we had on set for this issue was for our cover photo shoot. A proud father, Carey Small from Small’s Tile & Flooring dressed up in some stylish Robert Graham clothing from MacDermott’s and was more of a prop while his cute daughter Molly took the spotlight charming the whole team. Sorry Carey – you still look awesome but Molly definitely stole the show!
DESIGN/PRODUCTION Olaf Robrecht
Carey Small with daughter Molly
And now - enjoy the magazine! It is yet another compilation of what makes the Okanagan Valley our all-time favourite playground. Have a fantastic Spring, we’ll see you around soon!
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Christian Brix, Lourine Welding, Rick Maddison, Steve Harvey, Brice MacDermott FOOD EDITOR Michael Lyon
Julian Snarski
CONNECT WITH
EDITORIAL ADVISORS Deborah Lampitt-McConnechie, Angelika Jaeger ICON PHOTOGRAPHY Nick Schafer, O. Robrecht
Olaf Robrecht
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FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES ph: (250) 826 0400 Email: ads@icon-okanagan.com ICON Okanagan Published four times each year.
Printed in Canada All rights reserved. No part of ICON Okanagan Magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. The views expressed in ICON Okanagan are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Although all reasonable attempts are made to ensure accuracy, the publishers do not assume any liability for errors or omissions anywhere in the publication or on the website. ICON Okanagan reserves the rights to ads produced for advertisers.
ISSN 1925-2390
© Marzio Manderioli www.cartoonsbymarzio.com
@IconOkanagan
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OUR FEATURES Southbay Landing
12
A Golfer’s Paradise
20
Unforgettable Moments
26
Beautifully Bolder
34
Enjoyment at Every Turn
36
Win A BlackBerry Z10!
46
Okanagan Icons
62
Proudly Okanagan!
67
Luxurious Living by the lake
Introducing some of the best golf courses in the valley An Okanagan Wedding
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Driving the 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT
Barry Lapointe
36
Introducing Local Products
OUR PROFILES A Winning Hand
39
Your Phone, Your Way!
46
Roots & Blues
48
ACES Okanagan Wine Group
Best Buy Mobile; Vernon/ Kelowna
The 21st Annual Roots & Blues Festival; Salmon Arm
Wines of Excellence 50 Meyer Family Vineyards; Okanagan Falls
Award-Winning!
Hyundai; Kelowna
New to the Team!
54
Custom Furniture and Cabinetry
56
Green Gold
58
Canadian Culinary Creativity
69
Deborah Lampitt-McConnechie
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51
Guildmaster; Kelowna
The Jade Sculptures of Deborah Wilson Chef Mark Filatow; Kelowna
OUR REGULARS ICONIC APPAREL 8 The stuff you really want
SMILE! 10 Swinging With The Stars
The Gentleman
25
SMILE!
30
Detective Private Eye Spy Danny Littlemouth
39
Trend Reports 2013
43
Questions you are asked ...
44
Book Review
49
The Lady
52
Beauty & Aesthetics
53
64
An Okanagan Minute
66
They should have taught you this in school ... Bridal & Grad Extravaganza
Hot Fashion Trends for the Spring
70
when selling your business
Arcadia - Lauren Groff; Waiting for Sunrise - William Boyd Be the Woman a Gentleman adores ... Botox, Safety & Staying Looking Fresh
SMILE! Okanagan Arts Awards
The Chef’s Corner 68 Culinary Creativity
Atlantic Lobster Cappuccino; Walnut Crusted Lamb Rack
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The Tasting Note
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Your Guide to Okanagan Wineries
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CONTENTS
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02. THE OIL BARON WINDER Combining the beauty of the latest precision mechanics with the charm of a collector item, this handcrafted watch winder rotates two automatic watches eliminating the need to constantly reset and rewind your precious timepieces! Each watch winder is individually crafted and numbered within a limited production series. www.origintimes.com
01. THE BEOPLAY A9 SOUNDSYSTEM No more hiding your bulky stereo speakers. Danish manufacturer Bang & Olufsen recently introduced its stylish circular speaker system A9. It houses 480 Watts of “unchallenged sound quality” and functions wirelessly with a “magic touch volume control” which operates with just the swipe of your hand. Just stream your music from your favourite digital devices (you can also do it the old fashioned way...with cables). www.beoplay.com 03. THE 3D REPLICATOR What, you still print on paper? C’mon! Get your own 3D Printer for less than $2,000! The all-new MakerBot Replicator is an affordable, open source 3D printer that is compact enough to sit on your desktop. Create your own 3D designs or download one of thousands of available models and turn them into real objects. www.makerbot.com 04. THE COBRA COUCH You don’t have to be a car nut to love the sexy lines of this amazing furniture. Using the finest materials the designers at LA Design Studio show their superb craftsmanship with this AC Cobra 427 inspired couch. The “Spirit of 427” collection consists of a leather sofa, an armchair, a coffee table and a lamp. www.la-ds.com
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05. THE FLOW WINE RACK Inspired by the flow of liquid, this sculptural wine rack is finished in brushed stainless steel. Flow is wall mounted and will hold up to 8 bottles using minimal space. www.black-blum.com
06. THE DEFUSABLE ALARM CLOCK It may look like a dangerous device, but it really is just an ordinary (and fully functional) alarm clock. Available as an assembled unit or a “DIY” kit. Use it as a regular alarm clock, or scare your friends pressing the red button to start a countdown sequence which gives you 10 seconds to choose the correct, randomly assigned (and replaceable) wire to stop it. www.nootropicdesign.com 07. THE WINE RACK BRA Nice rack! The WineRack is every girl’s (and boys) best friend. It turns an A cup into double D’s and sports your favourite beverage for yourself and your friends. Just imagine the savings on overpriced drinks at concerts or the movies! Oh, right, good news for the guys – they have a Beerbelly too! www.thebeerbelly.com
10. THE TWO PERSON UMBRELLA Let’s hope that by the time of the release of this issue the rain is gone, but we still wanted to show you this. The Dualbrella is designed to cover you and your loved one so you can finally have a romantic stroll in the rain without breaking that lovely handholding connection. www.dualbrella.nl
08. THE BABY MOP Get your newborn to work! This is genius! Since you can’t stop a baby from crawling once it’s on the move, let it clean the floors for you! This outfit really kills two birds with one stone! By the way ... is there a size for adults? www.betterthanpants.com
09. THE iPOTTY TODDLER TOILET Oh boy... Yes, this is for real. Promoted as “a new product for parents of children being potty trained”, this mini toilet features an adjustable iPad docking station. And yes, there is a plastic cover to ensure ... dryness. ... www.ctdigital.com Spring 2013
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ICON Okanagan on Tour Swinging With The Stars
Coast Capri Hotel, Kelowna March 2, 2013
George, Angel, Robb Lora, Alana
Steve, Linnell
Cindy, Angie
Jane, Carlo
Kathy, Susan, Rose
Tera, David Deja, Colby
Jacquie, Gayle
Jason, Cathy 10
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Photos: Shaun Bos Photography (3); ICON Okanagan
Think it! Dream it! Dance it! The 5th Annual Swinging with the Stars took place on Saturday, March 2, 2013, in the Coast Capri Ballroom. It was a record breaking event! $260,000 was raised for the Central Okanagan Hospice Association! “We are incredibly grateful to the volunteers, the dancers and their campaign teams, our wonderful event committee and the people of Kelowna who support this event in ways we never thought possible” said Susan Steen, Executive Director of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association. Congratulations to Jane Hoffman and her campaign team, who were awarded ‘Most Pledges Raised’. Jane also won the ‘Judges Choice’ Trophy for her performance of the meringue. The ‘Audience Choice Trophy’ went to Lane Shupe. The COHA is a community-based non-profit organization that provides services and supports, through trained volunteers, to individuals living with or dying from advanced illnesses and their loved ones. All funds raised will support the palliative and bereavement hospice programs. Mike, Loriane
Heather, Scott
Shery, Steve
Linda, Carly, Ashley
Alan, Sylvia
Spring 2013
Deb, Dyan
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Southbay Landing Southbay Landing Southbay Landing Luxurious Living by the Lake you are looking for some new scenery, have just moved here as a permanent resident or maybe you are just in the market for a beautiful summer home, the place to check out is Southbay Landing. Just a short drive from downtown, Southbay Landing is an exclusive private gated community on Okanagan Lake nestled in Kelowna’s Lower Mission area.
T
he Okanagan Valley is a beautiful place to live. From the incredible views, rolling hills, picturesque mountains and gorgeous vineyards to the shimmering Okanagan Lake and all of the surrounding lakes, this area truly has something to offer for everyone.
Whether you have lived here your entire life and 12
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This adorable area boasts an immense sense of community, driving in, one is immediately welcomed with a friendly wave or smile as residents go about their business or just hang out around their homes. A very family friendly neighbourhood, parents can rest assured that their children are safe playing outdoors and that their homes and property are always protected as the security detail has always got the residents covered. Built on a peninsula jutting out into Okanagan Lake, surrounded by both the lake and a creek, Southbay Landing offers some pretty astounding views as well Spring 2013
as some fantastic amenities. The fabulous lakeside pool is perfect for those long summer days lazing in the sun enjoying an icy beverage or two, while the hot tub is a great place to unwind and relax those muscles after a long day on the lake water skiing or wakeboarding. Free from many of the tedious aspects that are associated with owing and maintaining lake front property, all you have to do is set your boat in one of the fantastic slips, enjoy the impeccable sandy beach and relax with the luxurious ease of waterfront living at Southbay Landing. We spent our day checking out a fabulous house in the community located at 201 – 440 Cascia Drive. Built in 2005, this Pasadena Craftsmen style home offers a little Asian influence with cedar and stone exterior finishing and an amazing modern interior. With nearly 4000 square feet of finished space this home is perfect for the medium size family and boasts an attached triple car garage, geothermal heating system, and ultra-high end appliances throughout. Through the entrance way we find outdoor access to the office area on the right as well as the main
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entrance ahead. This offers a separate access point for business meetings or if an employee drops by the home, making sure work stays at work and home time is always home time. Walking straight ahead we are met with the beautiful oversized front door which leads directly into the vastly open concept ground level of the home. To the right we find an open and airy dining area, beautiful stone work along the walls accents a custom built-in perfect for storing china, flatware and anything else you may need for that next extravagant get together. Overhead, a magnificent modern light fixture dangles in mid-air while crystals sparkle in the
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daylight through an amazing wall of windows. Moving forward through the butler’s pantry, which contains not one but two warming drawers and loads of storage, we find an impeccable kitchen. Fit for a professional chef and their crew and appointed with an oversized stainless steel SubZero fridge-freezer combo, six
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burner stainless steel Dacor gas cook top, built in espresso machine, dual Dacor convection ovens and dual hidden Miele dishwashing machines, modern cabinetry and two massive islands for maximum workspace, big dinner parties are sure to be a piece of cake.
ceiling seemingly miles away (28 feet), massive windows onto the backyard area flood the room is with natural light creating an indoor-outdoor atmosphere. Centered in the space is a large beautiful gas fireplace while a large flat panel television sits right on top.
Directly in front of the kitchen is the great room. With the
Heading upstairs is accomplished via an impressive mod-
Spring 2013
ern staircase with access from both the great room and the foyer. A custom stainless steel and glass railing system leads you towards the three bedrooms on the upper level. To the right we find the laundry room. Custom cabinetry abounds offering plenty of storage and neatly hides the high efficiency front load washer and dryer. Moving on we are met with a cute walk-through Jack and Jill 3 piece bathroom complete with modern fixtures and a custom tiled shower with a rain shower head. On either end of the bathroom we find a bedroom each with its own walk in closet. Walking across the suspended catwalk, hidden behind a beautiful oversize barn door to our right, we find a den workspace with a custom built in murphy bed, perfect for those overnight guests or even as a homework area for the children. Directly ahead is the stunning curved feature wall of the master bedroom, seemingly suspended in thin air over the kitchen it adds a very contemporary feel to the entire home.
Inside the master suite we are met with a custom builtin king size bed system which looks upon a two sided gas fireplace which can also be enjoyed from within the master en-suite. French doors lead to the fabulous private tiled sundeck which offers a peaceful view of the creek. Beautiful granite counter tops anoint the custom cabinetry that hangs along the curved walls of the ensuite, heated limestone flooring warms your feet, while attractive glass mosaic tiling covers the backsplash area. A massive custom tiled shower appointed with a rain head alongside a deep soaker tub from which you can
Synthetic Grass Solutions
Landscapes • Playgrounds • Pool Surrounds • Roofs & Decks • Dog Areas • Putting Greens
Visit our showroom at 140 – 948 McCurdy Road, Kelowna, BC Spring 2013
250.765.4032
rene@synlawn.ca
www.synlawnokanagan.ca
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enjoy the gas fireplace complete the space and offer the perfect atmosphere to relax after a long day at the office. This amazing home truly offers everything you might need for a relaxing life in the Okanagan Valley. With a prime Kelowna, Lower Mission location in a secure, gated and family friendly community, access to the lake, the beach and multiple amenities including a boat lift and slip all you need to do is in move in and prepare for the ultimate luxury lifestyle.
FEATURES AT A GLANCE: 201 - 440 Cascia Drive, Kelowna
Lot size: 0.170 acres, 67.45 x 113.22 Age: Built in 2005 Finished Area: 3934 sq. ft. Main: 2238 sq. ft Above Main: 1696 sq. ft. Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3, 2 full and 1 two-piece bathrooms Heating/ Cooling: Geothermal, Natural gas, Central Air conditioning Fireplaces: 3 gas fireplaces Roof: Tile Garage: Attached 3 car garage
Inclusions: 2 Dacor wall ovens; Dacor 6 burner gas cook top with pot filler; Sub Zero refrigerator; 2 warming drawers; Dacor cappuccino machine, built in Panasonic microwave; Kitchen Aid garbage compactor; 2 Miele dishwashers; Gaggenau fan hood; Tromm front load washer/dryer; Marvel wine fridge; HD Panasonic TV
Coldwell Banker Jane Hoffman Group #14 - 1470 Harvey Avenue Kelowna, BC Office: 250-860-7500 Email: jane@janehoffman.com
PLEASE NOTE: Although the information herein is believed to be from reliable sources, prospective buyers should satisfy themselves as to its accuracy. All measurements are approximate.
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www.vistafinancialgroup.ca
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Vista Financial Group (Landmark V Building) 600 - 1620 Dickson Ave Kelowna, BC 250-868-5534 1-800-663-2609 We recently met with Scott Maddock of Macquarie Private Portfolio Management of Sydney, Australia on a beautiful Kelowna day at the Hotel Eldorado. Scott was visiting Kelowna with the Canadian Investment firm Harvest Portfolios Group introducing Australian REITs to the Canadian investor.
Q
Q. Investors have loved the Canadian REIT space for years and have been very successful in being invested in it. Why Australian REITs today? A. The Canadian sector has had a very strong performance over the last three years. REITs were a safe place to invest and offered a compelling return via a competitive yield. Ultimately the decline in Canadian interest rates drove REIT asset values and prices up as well. Australian REITs, in contrast, did not benefit from this flight to yield and quality. After the global financial crisis, a number of REITs needed additional capital and were forced to restructure. Overall, the relative value of the sector in Australia was not as appealing as in Canada because Australia continued to grow quite strongly and avoided a recession. However, this has all changed – Canadian REITs have become expensive while Australian REITs have fixed their balance sheets; Canadian interest rates have bottomed while Australian rates are still declining. Australian properties and REITs are trading on average capitalisation rates of around 8%, while Canadian REITs are on 5% – 6%. Finally, Australian REIT prices have bounced but remain a long way behind the peak, and yields remain at high levels relative to Australian risk free rates. Yield chasers, both retail and institutional, are still moving money into Australian property and REITs. This provides the opportunity for an investment experience similar to that of the Canadian sector.
Q
Q. Your interest rates have been much higher in Australia than ours in Canada. Can you elaborate on your current interest rate environment?
A. Australian rates remained higher than the rest of the world in order to contain the inflationary effect of Australia’s high rate of economic growth. But investment in the resource sector and Chinese growth have both slowed. Consequently, we expect that the Australian economy will also slow from 3% – 4% growth to 2.0% - 2.5%. There is clearly further scope to ease interest rates as the economy slows and we expect at least a further 0.25% to 0.50% cut in rates. Lower rates will also allow REITs to reduce borrowing costs and will contribute to 3% - 4% growth in REIT distributions in the next two years.
Q
Q. There has been recent attention on your REIT market, including from a couple of Canadian pension plans that we know well: Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and CPP. Can you expand on these investments? A. There have been a number of co-investments in Australia by Canadian institutions in the last six months; CPP entered into a joint venture with Lend Lease to redevelop a large wharf area next to our office in Sydney – this was a $1bn commitment to the first stage of the project. Ontario Teachers has also invested a considerable amount of capital in recent times in a range of projects and infrastructure, while PSP Investments has been participating in Australian property deals in partnership with REITs. We are also seeing increased investment from offshore sources generally with a record number of transactions in the office market and a record share of those funded from offshore in 2012.
Q
Q. You mentioned that the Australian REITs restructured after 2008, what have been some of the results of this restructure? A. The sector went through a traumatic period in 2008. Many of the REITs had let debt levels increase substantially and were caught out when the financial crisis froze access to funds. In addition, there were management mistakes and the businesses had become more complex. Since then, equity recapitalisation has reduced sector debt to around 25% - 30% of assets, stabilised cash flows and simplified corporate and portfolio structures. The Australian REITs are now in a much better place, with a lower cost of capital and the ability to look for growth opportunities with a much more conservative management approach.
Q
Q. What are a couple of items that people in Canada may not know about the Australian REIT market? A. With a population of 23 million people, Australia has the fourth largest REIT market in the world, at approximately $86 billion market cap - more than $30 billion larger than Canada’s REIT market, which is notably the fifth largest in the world. Also, Australia launched the first REIT ever in 1971 and Westfield Group – the fourth largest REIT in the world – started as a property developer in the late 1950s. In contrast, Canada’s REIT sector started in the early 1990s. The Australian REITs portfolios generally are of high quality with many of Australia’s premium office towers and shopping centres owned by REITs.
At Vista Financial we strive to bring interesting topics and timely investment ideas to the investors of the Okanagan. If Australian REITs are of interest to you, please contact us for how you can access Scott Maddock’s current diversified portfolio of Australian REITs. ® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used by ScotiaMcLeod. ScotiaMcLeod is a division of Scotia Capital Inc. (“SCI”). SCI is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
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WAYNE S WORD Show Some Colour!
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by Wayne MacDermott
“Don’t be scared, just go for it. It’s time to let your hair down.”
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PUT SOME SPRING IN YOUR STEP!
Open your eyes! One way to brighten up the day is to
UPDATE YOUR WARDROBE!
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COLOURED CHINOS are KILLER! Pick up the STRIDE and LACE on some COLOUR!
Predator Ridge
“I feel very lucky to have grown up in the Okanagan Valley. It is a golfer’s paradise with the many golf courses to choose from that challenge any level of golfer. What better than to have a daily adventure set into a beautiful setting? It’s no wonder I have moved back to this same valley now…to enjoy all it has to offer! Happy golfing everyone!” AJ Eathorne, former LPGA Tour Professional, 3-time BC Ladies Amateur Champion, winner CLAC 1997
A Golfer’s Paradise Fairview Mountain
Kelowna Springs
Sunset Ranch
by Brice MacDermott
W
hen asked to write about the golf courses in the Okanagan, I simply couldn’t refuse the opportunity. Over the past 19 years of living and playing golf in the Okanagan I have had the opportunity to play every single golf course, and most of them on several occasions. When you think of any large golf destination they typically have many amazing golf courses and one staple that really brings people to the area. When you think of golf in California, the resort at Pebble Beach instantly comes to mind offering some of the Gallagher’s Canyon most memorable golf courses in the world. In Oregon, Bandon Dunes has quickly established itself and is one of the premier resorts for golf in the world. In the Okanagan we have more than 30 golf courses which has really put us on the map as a premier golfing destination in one of the most beautiful places in the world. 20
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Predator Ridge, Vernon In the Okanagan we are very fortunate to have Predator Ridge. Located in Vernon, Predator Ridge has positioned itself as one of, if not the best, golf resort in Canada. Every time I have the privilege of playing either of the amazing 18 hole golf courses at Predator Ridge, my excitement is always peaked on the drive in. As you drive around the corner and see the facility laid out in the valley, it truly gives you goose bumps. The two golf courses at Predator Ridge offer the golfer very different challenges and are both must-plays while in the Okanagan. The Ridge course, designed by Doug Carrick, was ranked 25th in the most recent edition of Score Golf’s Top 100 Golf Courses. Elevation changes, panoramic views, large forgiving greens and some of the best fairways around can be expected when playing The Ridge course. The Predator course was designed by Les Furber and was ranked 70th in the country by Score Golf. Golfers will face many different challenges including well placed water hazards, dog legs and some of the fasted greens around. Be sure to try and leave your ball below the hole when playing this course!
Talking Rock
But, don’t be too consumed by the view as your tee shot is key on this slight dog leg par five. The Okanagan Golf Club, Kelowna Is home to two 18 hole golf courses The Quail and The Bear. This really is a first class facility with all the amenities. The clubhouse is beautiful and a great venue for large gatherings, weddings or a meal after your round. The Quail golf course offers several tricky dog legs
Gallagher’s Canyon, Kelowna Another gem and one of my personal favorites is Gallagher’s Canyon. Gallagher’s was designed by the team of Bill Robinson and Les Furber and has been a staple to golfers in the Okanagan for over 30 years. Located about 15 minutes from downtown Kelowna, I have had the opportunity to play Gallagher’s many times and I always walk off the course extremely satisfied, regardless of my score! The course offers a different challenge on every hole and I always use every single club in my bag. The first hole provides a great setting for an opening tee shot right below the beautiful clubhouse. My favourite is the 9th hole. While standing on the tee box you must look to the left, a magnificent view standing atop the canyon. Spring 2013
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Royal York Golf Course Spallumcheen G & C Club Vernon G & C Club The Golf Club at the Rise Hillview Golf Club Predator Ridge Aspen Grove Golf Club Okanagan Golf Club Shadow Ridge Golf Club The Club at Tower Ranch Sunset Ranch G & C Club Kelowna Springs Golf Kelowna G & C Club Black Mountain Golf Course McCulloch Orchards Greens Harvest Golf Club Gallagher’s Canyon Golf
18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33.
Mission Creek Golf Michaelbrook Ranch Golf Shannon Lake Golf Course Two Eagles Golf Course Ponderosa G & C Club Sumac Ridge G & C Club Summerland G & C Club Sage Mesa Golf Club Penticton G & C Club Skaha Meadows Golf Twin Lakes Golf Resort St. Andrews by the Lake Golf Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Fairview Mountain Golf Club Sonora Dunes Golf Course Osoyoos G & C Club
and some of the most challenging par 3 holes in the city! The Bear golf course is a Jack Nicklaus design that is really fun to play. The finishing holes are quite challenging and a great way to finish off your round.
“The Okanagan Valley has become a remarkable destination for golf because of its uniqueness in weather and the beauty of its landscape. In Western Canada we have known this all too well and now it becomes exposed to the world.”
Richard “Dick” Zokol, two-time PGA Tour winner, Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Member
If you are looking to play a lot of different golf courses while on your trip to the Okanagan, the Play Golf Kelowna group is a must. Kelowna Springs, Sunset Ranch, Shannon Lake, Shadow Ridge and Two Eagles are all members of this program and offer every level Two Eagles
of golfer a unique challenge that won’t break the bank! Kelowna Springs is a wonderful course for a walk, but I assure you the challenges lie in the well placed water 22
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hazards, bunkers and sloping greens. Sunset Ranch requires some creativity off of the tee box. Most holes are tree-lined and Scotty Creek winds through the golf course, coming into play on several holes. Shannon Lake is a special place for me as it is where I learned to play the game. This course truly has 18 very different holes. Elevation changes, dog legs, sloping greens and the finishing holes right beside Shannon Lake are truly beautiful. Shadow Ridge is a fun golf course that anyone can play and will be sure to enjoy. With treelined fairways you must try to work the ball a certain way off of every tee box. Two Eagles is the only golf course of its type in Kelowna. As a former Pro at this golf course I can assure you that you should not “°judge a book by its cover”. This par 65 will challenge every level of golfer and you will walk off satisfied. Heading South? Fairview Mountain Golf Club is one of my absolute favorites in the valley. Located about an hour and a half from Kelowna, Fairview is a track that everyone should play. Great elevation changes, dog legs and some of the fastest greens you will every play can be found at Fairview. Every single hole is quite different and offers the player a unique challenge. The clubhouse has a great feel to it and is very relaxing. I have no problem spending a day at Fairview Mountain and frequently make the
Spring 2013
trip south to do so. Heading North? A golf course that is well worth the extra time in your car lies north of the Okanagan. The Talking Rock Golf Resort at the Quaaout Lodge in Chase opened in 2007. It is located on the north shore of Little Shushwap Lake and will offer you a very unique golfing experience. I have only made the trip once but let me tell you, this golf course is unreal. I can assure you that this golf course is of one of the best around. Designed by well known Canadian architects
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Dave Barr, 3-time PGA Tour winner, World Cup Team Championship winner, Canadian Golf Hall of Fame Member
“Golf in the Okanagan is a piece of paradise! With well manicured conditions, variety of different types of courses and the amazing scenic views overlooking the Okanagan Valley are simply beautiful. The lakeviews, the Ponderosa Pines, fruit orchards and vineyards as some of the back drops that provides golfers a variety picturesque photo opportunities and memories of their golfing ventures. All of those things to go along with the most ideal weather conditions available anywhere in Canada or the Pacific Northwest. An experience and destination you won’t forget!”
Graham Cooke and Wayne Carlton, it was awarded the Gold Medal in the Thompson-Shuswap region and ranks as the #9 golf course in BC (by PGA of BC). Every single hole is unique and memorable. I cannot wait
www.lexusofkelowna.com
to make my next trip to Talking Rock as every part of my experience was first class. Well, these are just a few of the many fantastic golf courses that we have. The Okanagan has so many amazing golf courses that I feel very fortunate to live here. Whether I am down south playing Fairview Mountain in Oliver, or in Vernon at Predator Ridge, they are all within a 1.5 hour drive of Kelowna. The Okanagan has truly become the place to play for golf in Canada. Brice MacDermott Brice MacDermott is a PGA of Canada Class A Golf Professional and General Manager of MacDermott’s Men’s Wear LTD. He operates two clothing stores in Kelowna - MacDermott’s on Bernard and MacD’s Lakeside. He is the proud husband of wife Lindsay, and has two children, Cooper (2) and Hannah (1).
The Gentleman
by Dr. Christian Brix
They should have taught you this in school....
Things a gentleman should never have... Now that we have evolved past of our college “frat boy” view of the world, some things might have to change. This list is a great start to shedding your youth, moving past your insecurities, and making sure you aren’t “that guy.” I don’t make the rules...I just tell you the funny ones. You should not have any of the following.... Bottle opener key chain - By now we should all have developed way cooler ways to open a beer (lighter, counter top, eye socket, etc), so don’t advertise for your favorite beer company as it dangles from the ignition of your H2...unless they are paying you. Crocs – Seriously. I know they are comfortable and convenient, but unless you are a painter or a chef, please consider a sandal. Mobile phone holster - This one actually has a caveat: if you have kids, or if you have a genuine fear of testicular cancer, then it is fine. Otherwise put the phone in your pocket! Transition lenses - They get darker in the sun? Really? Good sunglasses would be much better. In fact, even the giant sunglasses that cover your glasses and most of your face would be better. “Going out” shirt - No need for expansion. Futon - It worked great when your were in college because it
folded into a couch! No girl has ever said “take me on your futon.” Mattress time! A desire to cheat on your wife, or your golf scorecard - Both are horrible. Name for your “unit” - If any of these rules are set in stone, this is the one. We’re sure you have been truly blessed, but telling a lady the name cannot end well for you (assuming we are dealing with a “lady” of course). Jewelry from your travels - That Puka shell necklace and the friendship bracelet you bought on vacation looked awesome while you were away. Now they just look out of place while you’re playing solitaire in your suit at work. John Mayer CD - Compliments to you however, for actually purchasing music instead of stealing it. “Teacup” dog - Unless you are married, were married, have a girlfriend, or have kids, your dog must reach (at least) your knee when standing. I’m sorry. Black eye - Okay so by now, you should be able to talk your way out of a black eye. I won’t be at the bike racks at 3:30, and you shouldn’t be either. Empty fridge - At the drop of a hat, you should be able to whip up a delicious and healthy meal for the surprise visit from that special lady. Pizza pops, condiments and spoiled milk do not a well-stocked fridge make. Be ready at all times! A tree fort – Actually never mind. A tree fort would be awesome. Back-up girls - If you are in a relationship, you owe it to your girl to be fully IN the relationship. If you have back burner girl “friends” hanging around in case things don’t work out, you aren’t ready. She should dump you. Go all-in or go away. Filthy car - You don’t necessarily have to drive a nice car, but that thing better be clean. Coffee cups, food and your dirty gym clothes don’t make for a comfortable ride on a date. I don’t care what anyone says, but the condition of your car reflects the condition of your life. Remember to never swap horses while crossing a stream. It is important to know that change can take time, and it must happen only when it is the right time. If that bottle opener key chain holds a piece of your soul, then by all means hang on to it for now.
Dr. Christian Brix Dr. Christian Brix is a writer, a gentleman, and a Chiropractor living in and loving Kelowna B.C. www.brixfamilychiropractic.com Spring 2013
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Photos: Adrian Photography (www.adrianphotography.ca)
An Okanagan Wedding
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es, you have heard it before, and yes, we all know - the Okanagan Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Canada if not in the world. If you’ve lived here all your life, you may even take for granted the natural beauty of our area, but many people travel hundreds if not thousands of kilometers to come to this beautiful place ... and some of them come to celebrate their most special day in their lifes right here - their wedding day!
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here is no doubt, you have found it - the perfect place that has it all for your wedding. Regardless whether you are looking for a spring wedding, outdoors on one of the first warm days when everything starts to blossom, symbolizing a new beginning, a traditional summer wedding when the Okanagan Valley offers the bluest skies and nice, warm temperatures, an autumn wedding when the colours change and the afternoons and evenings call for a romantic indoor reception, or 26
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even the winter months where you can even get married in the snow or on the slopes. Yes, you have found the right place.
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nd now the planning starts. There will be questions about anything and everything: Where do we have the ceremony and/or the reception? Where do we find the right musicians, the best photographer to capture the most important day? Who takes care of the catering, and, and, and. The list seems almost endless. But don’t worry, there are many wedding specialists here in the valley that will take good care of you, from wedding planners, photographers, florists, DJs, Wedding Cake designers all the way to the classic Rolls Royce or stretched limo for the Spring 2013
If you are looking for the perfect location for a once in a lifetime ceremony you found the place The Okanagan Valley offers all you need for a Fairytale Wedding!
Wedding Gown: Allure Bridals www.allurebridals.com
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transportation in style. One of the best planning tools is to listen closely to the vendors and who they recommend, after all they have been in the business for years and know the best of the best.
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he first step in planning your big wedding day is to realize that it won’t happen the same year. At least not if you are looking for the perfect venue, whether it be a winery with the lake in the background or the romantic church. You will most likely have to book these at least a year in advance. Which may not be bad news, as you need at least six months to do it right. Once you are done with your guest list you will have a better idea to figure out how big the venue needs to be and what your budget is. By now you will also know a month, maybe date for the wedding, so find the perfect venue and reserve the day. It will be a fun day to drive around and visit those locations you would consider! Once the date and venue is firmly booked, this is the time you may wish to send out “Save The Date” announcements. If you wish DJ’s, musician, special effects lighting or a wedding designer to make it all happen make sure to secure these vendors next as they all book up very quickly. Most a year or more in advance.
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ext is the most exciting part - finding the wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses. You will also have to find the right person to do your (and the bridesmaids) hair and
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make-up. Here’s what you do - Invite your bridemaids and spend a day at our local bridal stores with a nice lunch with some bubbly! The internet (or your wedding planner, should you want to hire one) will then help with finding the photographer and/ or videographer as well as the florist and caterer.
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t least 8 months before the wedding day you should have it all organized and booked. The Okanagan is a very popular wedding destination and companies or services may have other commitments at that time. Confirm everything, better safe than sorry, correct? It’s also time to send out the wedding invitations.
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he big day is getting closer! The maid of honour may have helped to plan a wedding shower, or maybe organized it with the other bridesmaids. You also decided on gifts, found the wedding bands (and secured the marriage license!) and made al necessary arrangements for accomadations and the rehearsal dinner. And all the other smaller but equally important things you have on your list! Double check, triple check!
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e know -there are many more things to consider and to do. Which is why we said in the beginning that you need at least 6 months to plan it right. We actually recommend a
Rolls Royce Chauffeur Service (250-864-1763 by appointment only)
full year. During our research we spoke with many soon-to-be brides and grooms, and wedding planners and become almost wedding specialists ourselves. We have seen the most beautiful gowns, had the chance to sample amazing food and wine, not to forget some super delicious cupcakes (yes, we do love our job!) ... it was quite an experience. But it also showed us that there is a lot to organize, a lot to think about and important decisions to make. So give yourself enough time to plan it, time flies, you will see. And just ask those who went through it - they will tell you they never imagined how much work goes into this. But in the end, just remember what this day is really about - a celebration of love. Here’s to you the bride and groom!
radio
Spring 2013
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ICON Okanagan on Tour Bridal & Grad Extravaganza
Rotary Center for the Arts, Kelowna February 24, 2013
Melanie, Loriann
Meg, Erin
Jessica, Amy, Miranda
Gwen, Suzette, Donna
Kendra, Lisa, Steph
Christine, Heather, Shauna, Tamy Philippe
Kiera, Frances
Kristy, David Kimberly, Renie
Heather
Dee, Val
Erin, Carol-Ann 30
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It was the third wedding show we had attended in less than a month. So it is fair to say that the Okanagan is without a doubt one of the top wedding destinations in Canada. On Sunday, February 24th the Rotary Center for the Arts was transformed into an exhibition, sponsored by L’Amore Bridal & Formals, Kelowna’s Bridal Extravaganza drew in brides, bridesmaids, grooms, groomsmen, graduates, parents and relatives from far and wide to explore anything and everything wedding and graduation related. With over 80 exhibitors packed into the Rotary Center for the Arts you could definitely feel the excitement in the air as people moved from booth to booth checking everything out. Whether you were looking for a DJ, photographer, caterer or make-up artist you can be sure they were all there and ready to answer any and all of your questions. Most exciting of all, there were nearly $20,000.00 in door prizes to be won! Sarah, Brigitte
Nicole, Kaleena
Mel, Nadine
Hayley, Sam Kelsey, Chantelle
Loren, Carley Spring 2013
SenSei Laser and Vein Rejuvenation presents
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Like you, we have to make every penny we spend count. At Esteem Lingerie we educate women on how a bra should fit you, so you don’t have to waste any more money on bras that don’t fit and don’t last. Good lingerie is the foundation that makes your clothes look fabulous. From quality bras to casual lounge wear to sexy lingerie, we have something for every style, taste, age, size and budget.
#38-2475 Dobbin Rd, West Kelowna Tel. 250.768.0171 www.esteemlingeriegroup.ca Consult, Educate and Treat presents ... “The Five HEALTHY F.A.C.E.S program.” FIRM! FIT! FLOURISHING! FRESH! FABULOUS!
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WestK ... your high end hair salon located in the heart of West Kelowna Not only do we believe in sterling service to offer our clients, we also travel constantly to Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver to be a part of or to learn all upcoming hair and fashion trends. At WestK we are working with the community, participating in ongoing charities and events and are unique in our own way because we offer private hair party after hours and onsite location wedding parties.
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Tel. 250.768.9378
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Tel. 250.768.5355 www.senseilaser.org
#303-3550 Carrington Road West Kelowna, BC
2417 Main St West Kelowna, BC Spring 2013
ADVERTISEMENT
WIN a WHOLE-LIFE MAKEOVER Are you ready to make a change in your life? Do you want to look great, feel great and embrace life? Let us help you to be your best and win our great dream makeover!
We are looking for 2 contestants, a man and a woman, to be the lucky winners of a complete makeover!
Who knew something like this would happen to our valley! At SenSei Laser & Vein Rejuvenation we are dedicated to our patients’ health and happiness, and so we came up with the “A Sensei-tional Makeover” project.
Take part and change your life - join us on a year long journey where several professional service providers have joined us to provide the winners a series of non-surgical procedures to enhance their already beautiful self.
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www.makeover.senseilaser.org Spring 2013
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2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
BEAUTIFULLY BOLDER It’s the reigning “Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year” - the 2013 Santa Fe. Dynamically redesigned with an all-new engine, top safety features and tons of techie extras, Hyundai’s best-selling crossover definitely draws the eye. “Third time’s a charm” is an old saying but it sure fits the Santa Fe’s history.
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t is the most important vehicle launch since the Elantra.” says Hyundai Canada president Steve Kelleher announcing the all-new Santa Fe, the final vehicle in the Hyundai lineup to be fully recreated.
Precision’ design language which includes some of the sharp edges and sweeping lines of the Sonata and Elantra, but is generally more subdued.
Sitting between the smaller Tuscon and the larger Veracruz (which will soon be replaced by a longer wheelbase Santa Fe) the Santa Fe offers front-wheel or four-wheel drive and a six-speed manual or automatic set up. We drove the 2.0T SE which at $35,299.00 offers all the amenities and goodies we could possibly need.
THE ENGINE The Santa Fe Sport is offered with both a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbo fourcylinder producing 264 horsepower.
You can actually get behind the wheel starting at $26,499.00 for the 2.4L FWD and the top-of-the-line 2.0T Limited will only set you back $38,499.00. Produced in North America at Hyundai’s Georgia plant, the Santa Fe sits on a new platform and showcases what the company calls its ‘Fluidic
We love the hexagonal grille and mean looking facia and fog lamps.
While 190 horsepower is more than capable and well-suited for our everyday lives, our 269 lb-ft 2.0 liter model with its six-speed automatic was a joy to drive and left us with no desire for more power. It offers impressive performance and a very smooth ride with an all-wheel-drive system that is constantly monitoring the driving conditions to provide maximum traction. FUEL ECONOMY Fuel consumption is an obvious
HYUNDAI SANTA FE 2.0T SE • 2.0L Twin-scroll Turbocharged GDI Engine with Dual-CVVT • 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC®7 Airbags, 4-wheel Disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System • Remote Keyless Entry with AlarmDualzone Automatic Temperature Control with Clean Air Ionizer • Black Leather Seating Surfaces • Heated Front Seats • Panoramic Sunroof 34
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consideration for many buyers these days, and the new 2.4L engine is 12% more efficient than its predecessor. Our 2.0L testmodell averaged just shy of 10L and we drove it mainly in the city.
test model were the gigantic sunroof and the second row that slides up to 5 inches for better flexibility and more cargo space if needed. There’s even some storage space below the cargo floor.
CONCLUSION The Santa Fe really earns top scores in all categories. It offers great styling with lots of space and packages for all your needs and requirements. It’s easy to predict .. it will be a big hit! Just check it out at Kelowna Hyundai and you will see what we mean.
THE INTERIOR Let’s take a peek inside the Santa Fe. Even the base model includes power windows, locks, and mirrors; air conditioning; cruise control; a bluetooth audio system with six speakers; steering-wheel audio and phone controls; and 17-inch wheels. Pick a better equipped model and you will add a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, push-button start, automatic climate control, heated-and-cooled front seats and more. Overall, the interior shows some great styling and excellent fit, finish and material quality throughout, contributing to its upscale appearance. Some of the things we were impressed in our fully loaded
Spring 2013
SIZE MATTERS Hyundai just replaced the Veracruz with a longer wheel based three-row Santa Fe, seating seven-passengers and sporting a powerful yet fuel-efficient 3.3-liter V-6 producing 290 horsepower. Called the Santa Fe XL and build in Korea it offers up to 2,265L of cargo capacity and starts at $29,999.00 for the FWD base model.
EYE-CATCHING STYLE, ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES, AND PREMIUM AMENITIES FOR AN ACCESIBLE PRICE
ENJOYMENT AT EVERY TURN
2013 Hyundai Elantra GT
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yundai recently expanded its Elantra compact car lineup with a stylish hatchback, badged as the Elantra GT. “So they just chopped off the trunk?” you may ask. Not really, but let us explain...
The Elantra GT is not really a “Grand Toursimo” or “Grand Touring”, maybe the Hyundai marketing team thought “Great Trunk” when they decided for that badging as it replaces the Elantra Touring which was a four-door wagon. A good decision, as the GT has some very appealing styling, starting with the new enlarged and enhanced trapezoidal face and an overall European flair that has already made it a highly awarded competitor in its field. And it is anything “[I]f you like snappy styling, efficiency, and valuebut small. Yes, it has packed pricing, the GT adds an element to the lost some 50mms in Elantra lineup that was previously missing: the wheelbase, com- hatchback practicality and a dash of European flair.” pared to its four-door - Tony Swan, www.caranddriver.com sibling, and 230mm in the length, but it has actually got more seat space with better legroom and more headroom. And with 23 cubic feet of cargo space (51 cubic feet with seats folded down) you can take the whole family for a weekend trip. The Interior Our test model was the top-trim SE which came with a lot of very cool features, including a back-up camera that hides behind the flip-out Hyundai badge keep-
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ing it clean in all weather conditions, dual-zone automatic climate control, a great audio system with touchscreen navigation and a Bluetooth hands-free phone system as well as heated and power leather seats and even a panoramic sunroof. The Engine The GT is powered by a fuel efficient 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic (the base and GLS models have a six-speed manual that can be optioned to an automatic) with Shiftronic slips through the gears smoothly, and at the end of the day we averaged a little more than a 7 litres/100 km. Conclusion Starting at $19,149.00 with our top model the fully equipped SE Tech Auto coming in at $26,349.00, the 2013 Elantra GT has just been named “AJAC Best New Small Car (over $21k)”. It is a car that is very important for the Canadian market and you don’t have to be a psychic to predict it will be a very popular model in its class. Book your test drive at Hyundai Kelowna today!
Kelowna Hyundai 3260 Highway 97 North Kelowna, BC (250) 491-9467 www.kelownahyundai.ca
Spring 2013
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to be continued ... 38
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A winning hand
Nature deals some fine cards to the Okanagan’s vineyards. But perfect grapes - like perfect poker hands - are rare indeed.
It all started nearly 30 years ago, on a warm Okanagan night in Holger Clausen’s home-town of Summerland. His parents’ guests, mainly vineyard owners and winemakers, had just left after another delightful dinner party, where celebrating Okanagan wines and enjoying fabulous food guaranteed a memorable evening. Not tired at all, Holger challenges his dad to a chess game, proposing a prize he couldn’t keep his eyes off that evening, an ‘82 Sumac Ridge Gewürztraminer one of the guests had brought. Holger was enthralled to learn about the wine and its origins, and that very same bottle would change his life! Spring 2013
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years (and most of his student loans) establishing his name in the high limit poker rooms from Macau to Melbourne and Vancouver to Vegas. His wine infatuation ripens as his poker career blossoms. The moment he turns 21, he tours Napa Valley where, in the blush of perfect, sun-kissed grapes, he envisions his own premium label.
Winemaker Jason Parkes & Holger Clausen
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nd his love for chess ... it turned into a passion for poker. Combine the two ingredients, and it becomes ACES, another truly unique Okanagan success story. Determination: firm or fixed intention to achieve a desired end. Poker and wine, wine and Poker. Though it was his poker career that came first. In university Texas Hold’em gets a hold of him, and he spends three
The next decade Holger spends as owner and operator of the Okanagan’s premier grape harvesting company where he gets to know the valley’s best vineyard managers and learns that good wines come from good grapes and it all starts in the vineyard. The off-season sees the entrepreneur in sunny Australia, harvesting a huge range of varieties in a multitude of regions. And whenever time allows, he boards the 5:45 a.m. train from Swan Hill to Melbourne, arriving at the Crown Casino by noon. The redeye gets him home in time to supervise the next round of harvesting. His hard work and determination earns Holger Clausen the respect of leading growers and vineyard managers, and innumerable cash poker games guarantee him his grubstake.
The Pokerface Vineyards As a disciplined Hold’em player, Holger Clausen never risks so much. Instead of following the examples of most premier Okanagan labels who harvest from their own vineyards, Holger has access to many of the Valley’s best grapes on the coveted benches of Black Sage, Osoyoos Lake and Naramata. It’s what they call ‘The Pokerface Vineyards’ at ACES. And if a grape variety is less than stunning at harvest time, he simply folds on that wine that year.
Recruit the best To handcraft those precious grapes into something extraordinary, early on Holger looked for the best winemaker, 40
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NEW WINE RELEASES
JASON SAYS ...
2011 Seven Deuce Red Wine:
A proven winner! This blend was developed as an approachable, versatile wine with notes of ripe current, coffee, liquorish and blackberry. This smooth easy drinking blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz will pair with a multitude of dishes or can simply be enjoyed on its own. Enjoy today or age up to 5 years.
2012 Seven Deuce White Wine:
Aromatic, unique and yummy, best describes this great blend of Pinot Gris and Viognier. Notes of melon, tangerine, citrus and a hint of minerality give this wine the subtle complexities that will delight even the most discriminating palate. Enjoy!
2012 Blush:
Vibrant in colour, this off dry Rose taste of fresh strawberries, watermelon and cranberries. Very well balanced with perfect acidity and notes of juicy fruit – a summer sipping delight!
2012 “Queens” Chardonnay:
Luck be a lady tonight! This hand crafted chardonnay will delight your senses with opulent flavours of tropical fruits and Bartlett pears. Lightly oaked to bring a full mouth feel with moderate intensity that guarantees a long fruity finish.
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and found him as part of another Okanagan success story, a rising star among young Canadian winemakers Peachland-born Jason Parkes. Known for his outstanding work ethic and commitment to varietal expression, Jason has spent the past decade honing his wine chops in three noted Okanagan cellars, learning from the best of the best, and serving as winemaker/consultant to at least six BC wineries. Today, with numerous awards won at West, Northwest, South and Southwest U.S. Competitions, Jason Parkes is a key card in the ACES hand. “I’ve made personal sacrifices to be part of the ACES project and honestly, I couldn’t be happier. We all share a passion for crafting exceptional wine - ACES spares no expense to help me create top quality vintages. To start, I get phenomenal grapes - the best fruit in the Okanagan Valley!”
The Players’ Club Improve your odds of scooping that prized vintage - join ACES Players Club and get in the game. Membership ratchets up your odds of acquiring soon-tobe-released, sure-to-be-sold-out vintages, including inaugural, and other rare, small lot vintages PLAYERS’ CLUB membership is absolutely free. So join now!
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ACES the Brand! What started as a small land based winery in a simple three bay garage on the Kaspercyk property in Naramata in 2009, has evolved into a serious branding initiative. Today, they have wineries in BC, Ontario, California, Argentina and Australia all under license to bring various, small lot vintages of delicious wines to their loyal consumer using the ACES brand. Under the watchful eye of winemaker Jason Parkes and proprietor Holger Clausen the focus still remains on branding BC VQA wines and bringing the highest quality/price point ratio to the consumer as possible. Although the wines from their non-BC locations may rest on the laurels of other winemaker’s, Holger makes sure that not a single drop of wine goes into an ACES branded bottle without his and Jason’s approval. “We have spent a lot of time building up personal relationships with other wineries and winemakers throughout the world and to bring it home under the ACES umbrella has been an incredible journey to say the least,” says Holger Clausen. Coincidentally, no matter where in the world Holger travels to look at vineyards and sample their wines, there always seems to be a poker table not too far away ...
ph. 1-800-519-ACES www.aceswine.com
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Show Some Colour! Here’s our guide to the most estrends for Spring. Pick single to jazz up your style! Be bold,
sential and wearable pieces or combine and don’t be afraid!
Makeup your mind! Arresting, powerful, provocative - show some unexpected colour combinations this Spring! By NARS; Eye-shadow by Giorgio Armani Beauty
In-Style 2013
Trend Reports 2013
Fragrance! A sparkling burst of vibrance - fresh, floral, sensual and alluring! “Something Blue” by Oscar de la Renta; “Flash” by Jimmy Choo
Make a Statement! “Suddenly” necklace by Swarovski. Bangles Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co; “Silette” bracelet by Jamin Puech
Forget Neutral! Did we mention colour is in? Yes, it will be bright and colourful. But there is more - straps, laces and mixed materials. Our favourites (l2r) are: Python Peep-Toe by Jimmy Choo; Lace-up sandal by Aquazzura; Platform sandal by Rachel Zoe; Wedge sneaker by Zanotti
Spring 2013
Pop of Colour! Crazy prints and bold and vibrant colours - and there is definitely a trend to small clutches and top handle bags.(left to right) Rebecca Minkoff (2); Jimmy Choo; glitter pouch by MAWI
Groovy Baby! Yes, there is a trend for “back-to-basics” and we spotted almost anything, from black and white, to bold stripes and powerful prints. One of our favourites is the psychedelic PPQ collection that brings us back to the 60s! www.ppqclothing.com Tribal Touches! Large and heavy jewelery with an ethnic, tribal influence think bright and edgy and you’re spot-on! (left to right) “High Tea” by Holst+Lee; “Color Strass” by Alexander McQueen; “Ode to the Navajo” by Holst+Lee
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Questions You’ll Be Asked When SELLING Your Business
by Steve Harvey
One of the most intimidating aspects of selling your business can be facing the barrage of questions during the various presentations you’ll be doing for potential acquirers. Be prepared to be grilled on all facets of your operations. Building a company to sell requires investing in elements that a buyer can quantify via valuation. Being profitable doesn’t automatically make you salable. Of course every meeting will be different, but here are some questions you can expect to be asked when you’re in the hot seat: 1. Why do you want to sell your business? This is one of the first questions a buyer will ask, so you need to be able to articulate your motivation. Nail the “why” question and you’ll cruise through an important gate on the road to selling your business. Why do you want to sell it, and why do you want to sell it now? A buyer wants to hear that you are excited about the potential of your business and are keen to stay on and help capitalize on the opportunities the acquisition creates
2. How did you arrive at your asking price? Often, sellers will base their asking price on arbitrary factors such as how much money they’ll need to move on with their life. If a seller arbitrarily arrived at his asking price, there’s likely more room for negotiation. A Business Market Valuation shows what a business is
worth and could in all probability, sell for at this moment. Financial statements, Profit and Loss statements and an asset list are just the beginning. Companies sometimes run everything through the business, such as country club dues, car allowances, personal meals, travel and family. Loading the business with tax write-offs can make you appear less profitable and cause a buyer to undervalue your business. Ultimately, the value of a business will be determined by what a buyer is willing to pay for it. However, placing a concrete value on the business will weed out unsuitable prospective buyers and specify what a buyer SHOULD pay for it.
3. What are your biggest challenges right now? You need to understand what the buyer is asking. Do you have many competitors? Is there a large capital investment required in updating equipment or assets? Do you have any challenges with your employees? Investing in the right systems is an investment that will pay off both short and long term. You benefit every day from more effective operations. If you ever decide to sell the business, demonstrating that you have well-run, efficient systems will be an important part of proving its value.
4. How much does your business depend on a key customer or employee? You might be buying a company that looks very successful, but if it relies heavily on any one customer or vendor, you’re taking a big risk. If major clients and vendors feel particularly loyal to the previous owner, they might jump ship once you take the helm. No one customer should represent more than ten percent of the business. Diversify your customer base. The buyer wants to understand the depth of your team. A buyer will want to ensure that the team is able to support the business going forward. A good business can operate when the owner is on vacation and has good revenue diversification.
You may have already decided that now is the right time to sell, and you want the very best professional guidance you can get. This is when working in tandem with a professional business broker can make the difference between just getting rid of the business and selling it for the very best price and terms!
About Steve Harvey Steve Harvey is a Certified Business Broker and owner of “Business Finders.� He brings over 20 years of sales industry related experience to the market place. His expertise crosses many fields in several industries. Having owned and managed businesses, Steve was on both sides of the franchise system. Business Finders now provides professional services to the business buyers, sellers, and investors of business. Steve Harvey
Spring 2013
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When it comes to shopping for a new cell phone, there are so many choices out there it can be overwhelming. What plan should I get? What functions do I need? Am I eligible for any upgrades to my existing contract? What’s QWERTY and should I have it? Here’s where Best Buy Mobile comes in. Did you know that Best Buy Mobile Specialists can take care of all of your burning cell phone questions about any phone, on any carrier all in one place? Impressive, right? No matter what network your contract is with, or where you purchased it, you can bring your cell phone in and a Mobile Specialist can tell you if you’re eligible for an upgrade, what your options are and they can set you up right there on the spot so that when you leave our store, you Walk-Out-Working.
There are more than 52 standalone Best Buy Mobile stores in Canada with more expected to open later this year offering the widest selection of the newest, hottest cell phones and accessories available. Not only are Best Buy Mobile Specialists there for you when you purchase a new phone, they are also there to support you for the life of your phone to help answer questions, renew contracts, check for upgrades, set up email, connect Bluetooth and anything else you need.
A surprising number of Canadians use their “smart” phones primarily (some exclusively) for texting and taking photos – the two most basic functionalities on almost any regular mobile phone.
Check out the latest phones, compare plans and get your cell phone questions answered all under one roof at a Best Buy Mobile near you.
Come into your local Best Buy Mobile store and let us help you navigate through all of the incredible functions your smart phone has to offer and discover what your phone can really do – you’ll likely be surprised by the power of your mobile device that is literally at your fingertips.
Best Buy Mobile Village Green Mall Village Green Mall 4900 27th St., Unit 205 Vernon, BC, V1T 7G7 (250) 545-1136
One of the hottest phones right now is the new BlackBerry Z10 all-touch smart phone. This incredible phone has some amazing capabilities that we don’t want you to miss! Let a Mobile Specialist take you through all of the cool apps and features to get the most out of your smartphone experience.
Best Buy Kelowna Orchard Park 2271 Harvey Ave., Unit 1403 Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6H2 Phone: (250) 448-0890 www.bestbuymobile.ca
WIN!! WIN!! WIN!! Cool! This time you can win a BlackBerry Z10! How do you take part? It’s simple - just go to our website www.icon-okanagan.com Good luck! PRIZE: ONE (1) BlackBerry Z10, provided by BEST BUY mobile. SELECTION OF WINNER: Winner will be selected on June 28, 2013, in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received. The drawing will be conducted by ICON Okanagan Magazine, whose decisions and interpretations on all matters relating to the Draw and these Official Rules are final and binding in all respects. ICON Okanagan reserves the right to disqualify any participant or winner and may refuse to award any prize to a person who is ineligible or has violated any rule, gained unfair advantage in participating in the Draw, or obtained winner status using fraudulent means. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Potential winners will be notified by Email and must meet all ICON Okanagan eligibility requirements. Return of a prize or prize notification as undeliverable, or inability of ICON Okanagan Magazine to contact a potential winner within seventy-two (72) hours of selection, may result in disqualification of such potential winner, and an alternate winner may be selected by random drawing at ICON Okanagan’s discretion. In the event a winner declines a prize, ICON Okanagan may, at its discretion, select an alternate winner by random drawing. 46
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21st roots & blues festival August 16-18, Salmon Arm Now in its 21st year, the Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival is the largest and most musically diverse festival in the British Columbian Interior. Over the years it has gained a shining reputation for the variety of its top quality presentations and for its organization.
LIVE ! • Mississippi Heat • Ben Waters • Bruce Cockburn • City and Colour • Skratch Bastid • Felix Zenger • Butterscotch • The Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer • Malcolm Holcombe • Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside • Shakura S’Aida • Steve Strongman • Daniel Lanois
The Festival began in 1992 as a small indoor festival, a result of the grassroots Shuswap Coffee House collective of the 1970’s and 80’s, which by 1991 had coalesced into the not-for-profit Salmon Arm Folk Music Society. The main goals of the S.A.F.M.S. are to encourage and promote performers from all parts of the world (with a special emphasis on Canadian talent), and to introduce audiences to the world’s incredibly diverse genres of music, musical instruments, and the artists who play them. The Festival takes place on the third weekend of August at the Salmon Arm Fairgrounds, a picturesque 18 acre park in Salmon Arm. At night, two stages run simultaneously.
Main Stage is at one end of the grounds and is where you can catch the headlining acts, which include Bruce Cockburn, City and Colour, and Daniel Lanois this year.
loads of things for kids to see and do, including a Family Stage with a line-up geared towards children. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Other amenities include a Global Food Village, an Artisan Market, shaded beverage gardens with stage views, pre-registered camping, paid parking, and much more. The Festival is a sonic and visual sampler serving up an unforgettable experience. It’s a great place to come together with family and friends.
For more information, including Roots & Blues’ pre-festival community outreach program, please visit:
www.rootsandblues.ca
The dynamic Boogie Barn Stage lies at the other end, pumping out live beats for the diehard dancers in the crowd. During the day, six stages run concurrently featuring different genres of music including Blues, World, Alt-Roots, Folk, Dance and many others. Roots & Blues is family friendly with a Family Fun Zone offering
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must reads ...
ARCADIA by Lauren Groff “It’s not possible to write any better without showing off!” Richard Russo (author of ‘Empire Falls’) Lauren Groff’s first novel, “The Monsters of Templeton,” was on the New York Times Bestseller list, and her new book ‘Arcadia’ is getting raving reviews. Starting in Western New York of the late 1960s and early 1970s a hippy commune, the novel follows Little Brit, the first child to be born in a commune set up by an eccentric musician who tries to gather enough money to renovate a decaying mansion called Arcadia House. The kid, who can go for months without speaking, sees the idealistic goals of the families bring illness and hunger and Aracdia’s entitled leader fall from his grace. His family finally leaves to make their way in the outside world. Fast forward. The second part of the novel (which comprises four parts) shows Bit, now a parent himself, who has become a photographer and teacher, dealing with the decline of his parents and friends. ‘Arcadia’ finally concludes a half-century after its start in a futuristic apocalypse of worldwide plague and quarantine.
ARCADIA Paperback: 320 pages Publisher: Hyperion Books ISBN-10: 140134190X ISBN-13: 978-1401341909
We won’t tell you too much more, all we can say is that we truly enjoyed this book. Lauren Groff masterfully renders a story that feels true and is magical at the same time. As Richard Russo says “Arcadia is one of the most moving and satisfying novels I’ve read in a long time.”
WAITING FOR SUNRISE by William Boyd “Thoroughly entertaining. . . Waiting for Sunrise has the pace of a spy thriller, with code-cracking and double-crossing aplenty.” - The New Yorker From one of our most celebrated and imaginative writers comes a spellbinding novel about deception, betrayal, psychoanalysis, and the mysteries of the human heart. Vienna, 1913. Lysander Rief, a young English actor in town seeking psychotherapy, is caught up in a feverish affair with a beautiful, enigmatic woman—until she goes to the police to press charges of rape. Only a frenzied getaway plotted by two mysterious British diplomats saves him from trial. But after Lysander returns to a London on the cusp of war, the traumatic ordeal haunts him at every turn. The men who coordinated his escape recruit him to carry out a brutal murder. His lover shows up at a party, ready to resume their liaison. Suddenly plunged into the dangerous theater of wartime intelligence—a murky world of sex, scandal, and spies—Lysander must unravel a secret that threatens Britain’s safety. Moving from Vienna to London’s West End, from the battlefields of France to hotel rooms in Geneva, Waiting for Sunrise is a mesmerizing journey into the human psyche, a beautifully observed portrait of wartime Europe, a plot-twisting thriller, and a literary tour de force. Spring 2013
WAITING FOR SUNRISE Paperback: 384 pages Publisher: Harper Collins ISBN-10: 0061876771 ISBN-13: 978-0061876776 www.icon-okanagan.com
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Crafting Single Vineyard Wines of Excellence
MEYER FAMILY VINEYARDS
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xcellence requires the best ingredients, so when Jak and Janice Meyer made the decision to change careers and enter the world of wine they took their time to find the perfect site for their vineyard to produce the finest quality wines in the traditions of Burgundy. They found it on on two locations: On the Naramata bench and on McLean Creek Road in Okanagan Falls.
Next was to hire the best winemaker, and with Chris Carson they found the right person with the required extensive enthusiasm and skills in all areas of winemaking and production. Chris returned home to Canada after spending eight years in New Zealand and France, where he worked with many prestigious wineries, winning several trophys and awards for his Pinot Noirs. At Meyer Family Vineyards he maintains as much as possible a hands-off approach in the cellar to allow the true expression of the terroir. “We focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with an emphasis on small lot single vineyard wines,” says Jak Meyer. “We use the best barrels, absolute care and attention to detail and the best winemaking protocols. It truly reflects the soil, the sun, the people and the location of the beautiful Okanagan Valley.” This attention to detail, the perfection and the passion about the wine just recently awarded their 2010 Sonja Gaudet Tribute Series Chardonnay as the “Number One BC Wine of 2012” at the Wine Access Canadian Wine Awards (CWA) as well as the number one oaked chardonnay in Canada “We are so thrilled to receive this acknowledgement solidifying our belief that we should specialize and focus on vari-
etals such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Okanagan,” Janice Stevens-Meyer smiles. “It shows we made the right decisions and it proves that Chris Carson is one of the best winemakers in the country by garnering such awards and acknowledgements.” All Meyer Family wines can be ordered via their website, by becoming a member of their wineclub and private wine stores across Canada but the best way to experience and truly understand what goes into each and every bottle of Meyer Family Vineyards wine is to visit them at their beautiful winery in Okanagan Falls. www.mfvwines.com
Tasting Room Address: 4287 McLean Creek Road Okanagan Falls, BC Tasting Hours: 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week until October 31st. From November 1st by appointment only.
And the Award goes to ...
KELOWNA HYUNDAI
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re you in the market for a new or new to you vehicle? Well, after doing a little research in that department we found out that Kelowna Hyundai has really been hard at work, and it shows. You have definitely got to stop in and check out their massive selection of quality new and used cars! With just over a year under their belts at their new location John Kot, Guy Lemieux and the entire team at Kelowna Hyundai have really been making some incredible strides in the local market, not to mention on a national level! But with such incredible products and a dedicated staff who could expect any less. For many years Hyundai has offered quality vehicles at affordable prices and with a continued and unwavering commitment to quality, this brand is gaining traction at an unprecedented rate. Garnering an impressive stable of accolades year after year Hyundai has definitely got our attention, and if it hasn’t got yours yet then you best be looking. This year alone, among a myriad of other awards, Hyundai’s Santa Fe has won 2013 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada, the 2013 Elantra received Top Pick in the Compacts segment from Auto.ca and the 2013 Elantra GT received a 5-Star Overall Crash Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And don’t forget last year’s big winner the 2012 Veloster for Best New Design from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. So, it’s definitely time to take a look at Hyundai, STAT! And where better to have a look at a new or used Hyundai than a nationally recognized dealer? That’s right ladies and gentlemen: Kelowna Hyundai has just picked up the President’s Award and is rated as one of the top 12 Hyundai Dealerships in Canada! Based on new and used vehicle sales, market share in their segment and overall customer experience our local Hyundai dealer is considered one of the best in the country. Why not take advantage of that fact and check out some truly amazing vehicles and an incredible customer experience down at Kelowna Hyundai?
Kelowna Hyundai 3260 Highway 97 North Kelowna, BC (250) 491-9467 www.kelownahyundai.ca
The Lady
Be the woman a gentleman adores.... With this beautiful season on our doorstep it’s time to make the most of the freshness that comes with spring. It’s the sweet fragrance, the lingering sun and the tiny specks of colour that promise new and wonderful things! The humdrum of life with chores and rituals that need to happen daily can quickly become monotonous and leave us feeling stuck. BUT: All too often we forget that we do have a choice and don’t need to be stuck. These things can keep you moving forward… • Lighten up
I’m continually struck by the high prevalence of anxiety in our society, especially women. It’s interesting to me because a woman has the potential to set the tone in her household. Therefore: a lady in chaos results in a chaotic environment around her. According to a trusted source, people “feel anxious when disconnected in love”. So, make the effort to stay connected. There are always gems around you in the people that cross your path. Connect, feed loving relationships and banish anxiety.
by Lourine Welding
ence member for one of those episodes. Believe me, the real you, is far more interesting. Turn off that TV and let the world around you enjoy your very own personality and thoughts.
• Pose, poise and posture… These few simple things are but the basics of acting like a lady: Slouch on the couch, not while standing or walking. A confident but comfortable stride is very attractive. Unless you’re Sharon Stone in Basic Instinct don’t sit like a cowboy when wearing a skirt. And gone with the frowns! An angry face makes it hard for people to connect with you. Some things, like what time of the month it is for you, you might want to share with your best girlfriends but not the entire world. Like spring flowers, ladies blossom in the right climate but also create climates. A criticizing attitude is like a bad fragrance, while the opposite is also true and most definitely more appealing to the friends in your life.
• Stop putting pressure on relationships
There’s no point in trying to decide where something is heading as soon as you meet a guy. Needy people scare others away. Give friendship a chance to bloom while enjoying life. If you feel like half a person or unhappy while you’re single, the same will be true when you’re in a relationship. “You complete me” is the biggest lie that Hollywood has sold as a romantic line.
Lourine Welding Lourine Welding is a lady working in Kelowna as an Occupational Therapist. She is also a traveler and singer/songwriter. wlourine@yahoo.com
• Dead ends lead to nowhere
When you know something is not working it’s your time to do something about it. If a relationship is not right, do what’s best for you and honouring to the other person. Guys will often ride out something as long as it will go so don’t wait for him to do what you should be doing. If you are married, why not invest in your commitment with new vigor and creativity this season? Yes! Do it first!
• Revamp your style…
Recycle clothing that you’ve been wearing for forever. Something old could be a girlfriend’s something new. De-clutter! North Americans have way too much stuff, get rid of things you don’t use and you’ll be surprised at the emotional relief that comes with throwing out junk.
• …and your headspace
Dealing with emotional baggage is a gift to yourself. Running through the same negative things in your head is not helpful. Zip them up and toss them out. Then replace them with good things that are true and let this take root and bear positive fruit. It might feel like pruning a tree but you’re sure to see some buds appear.
• Reality TV, really?
If you watch something enough you will think like that and act like that. Not long ago while waiting for a movie to begin, I observed a group and found myself feeling like an unwilling audi52
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by Drs Bentley & Wong
Botox, Safety & Staying Looking Fresh
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ore than ever, we are peppered with ads for the many techniques out there to slow aging or reverse it. As a consumer we all want to feel better, look better, and be properly informed – it can be hard to sort through all the data. The most popular solution for anti-aging is Botox® – a 2012 study found that 81% feel Botox is a mainstream treatment, and 57% think that “…every day, real-looking women get injectable treatments.” It has a great safety record and works extremely well for wrinkles caused by active muscle contraction. Botox does not work on wrinkles that are present all the time, such as when our facial muscles are relaxed – nor skin laxity or loss of volume due to aging. But dermal fillers really do help where Botox doesn’t – more on this in a bit. Botox temporarily blocks the nerve-to-muscle signals responsible for wrinkles forming. The muscles don’t contract because they aren’t getting the message from the nerve that normally would “tell” them to. So, the wrinkles from active muscle movement, such as frowning, relax and disappear. These effects wear off in about four months, but with time you need less Botox to create the same results and you need it injected less often. This product is extremely effective in almost all people and there are minimal side effects. Perhaps most effective use in anti-aging treatment is combining Botox Cosmetic with dermal fillers, or hyaluronic acid injectables, like Juvederm. This blended treatment is sometimes called a Soft Lift – that restores lost volume due to aging and helps fill in larger wrinkles. Experienced cosmetic doctors or RNs combine science and art, for just the right result that a patient wants. Botox was first used medically in the treatment of eyelid spasm. Then tested in the trigger points of people who suffer from migraines, and most people had relief. Peoples’ headaches were lessening – and they noticed that their wrinkles disappeared as well! The cosmetic use of Botox exploded. There are over 75 medical uses of Botox today including things like excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), back pain, stutters, essential voice tremors and writer’s cramp. To conclude, here are some tips when seeking cosmetic medical solutions. Find a dedicated professional physician – versus someone who dabbles. Begin with a personal con-
sult that includes your medical history. And don’t be shy, ask your doctor about his or her qualifications, including how long they have been, and how many patients they have treated with it. Do your research; be comfortable with the medical doctor or professional who would administer it. Understand the treatment, how safe it is, possible side effects and/or recovery time. The bottom line with Botox: The experience and skill of the injector are the single most important factors for successful outcomes. Make sure you follow-up with that professional as instructed and your results should be wonderful.
Author: Dr. Janna Bentley is a cosmetic medical doctor and co-founder,with Dr. Mandy Wong, of Lakeshore Vein & Aesthetics Clinic. 3293 Lakeshore Rd Kelowna ph: 250.860.9919 www.veinskin.com Spring 2013
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“I remember interviewing Karl Lagerfeld backstage at the Chanel haute couture and thinking– ‘wow, how did I get here’?”
DEBORAH LAMPITT-
McCONNECHIE
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t’s a long way from London, UK to Kelowna, BC, but big moves have always factored large in new Okanagan resident’s Deborah LampittMcConnachie’s life.
It’s hard to believe that a woman who has interviewed Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Jacobs, in Paris and New York respectively, grew up on a farm just outside Lashburn, Saskatchewan, population 967. Although “it was a fantastic place to grow up”, Deborah always felt a little out of step with small towns. “I used to devour every page of Vogue–even the advertising–and I still joke that I was the only person in a 200 mile radius who had an Elvis Costello album.” It’s no surprise the big (BIG) city beckoned. After studying fashion design in London, and later Los Angeles where she interned with costume designer Bill Travilla, a night class at UCLA led to an internship with RCA Records (indulging her other great love–the music industry) followed by a job in music video production back in London, then four years at The Georgia Straight. “Vancouver was wonderful, but I knew I would end up back in London. It was the centre of everything I was interested in–fashion, music, film, art. It’s such a great city if you’re a young, creative person.”
Photo: Fresh Finish Photography
Returning to London in 1991, Deborah interned at Marie Claire magazine, then worked as a freelance stylist. Another chance meeting at another night class resulted in a job as segment producer at ‘Planet Fashion’, a syndicated fashion television programme that covered the catwalk shows in London, New York, Paris and Milan, followed by L!VETV’s ‘The Fashion Show’, BBC’s ‘Looking Good’ and directing for UK Living’s ‘A Là Mode’.
“The schedule was brutal during the fashion weeks–12 hour days surviving on champagne and canapés–but it was such a rush.”
”Helping students develop their potential as fashion professionals, writers, and just as people, was so fulfilling.”
After fitting in an MA (with Distinction) in Fashion Journalism from UK’s seminal Central Saint Martins, Deborah moved into print journalism (freelancing for Canada’s ‘Globe and Mail’ and Tokyo’s ‘Hanutsubaki’ among others) before being recruited to take over the Fashion Journalism course at the University for the Creative Arts, which she “totally loved”.
So, how does the Okanagan come into play? “After over two decades in London, my husband and I reached a point where we wanted to shift down a gear, and to be closer to my family. We visited Kelowna about four years ago, and we just looked at each other and said ‘this is it –this is the place.’
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Deborah will be working with ICON Okanagan as a fashion consultant and advertising representative, something she is really excited about. “I discovered ICON last summer, and I love it. I think it has so much potential, and I’m really looking forward to helping to develop it further.” Deborah is also blogging about Kelowna at thegoodnewlife.blogspot.ca, and about inner and outer beauty at thebeautydiaries.blog.com. You can also check out her work in London fashion magazine Velour and, of course, here in the pages of ICON. We can’t wait. Spring 2013
where food is passion & shopping an experience
ADVERTISEMENT
WE’ve got the right MEAT make sure YOU’ve got the right BBQ! YOUR ONE STOP BBQ SHOP!
When thinking about your backyard BBQs this summer make sure to come to our Meat Department and check out some of the great offerings we have for your BBQ season. Such great things as: • Salmon, Halibut & Beef Burgers • Many types of Sausages • Crocodile, Chicken, Beef & Salmon Kabobs • Gluten Free Marinades • Exotic Meats (Camel, Ostrich) ... and more !!! All our great products are made fresh in house every day so be sure to stop by and say hi to our amazing team in the Meat Department. You will also find whatever else you need for your party - fresh veggies, spices, sauces and dressings, or pick one of our fabulous pre-made salads!
30 feet of meat ...
(no kidding, our meat display is 30 feet! Come and measure it!)
URBAN FARE Mission Park 3155 Lakeshore Rd Kelowna, BC TEL: 250.860.0608 www.urbanfare.com Spring 2013
Images: Fresh Finish Photography
Earn More Rewards points at URBAN FARE! Fore more information just ask at the store or visit www.morerewards.ca www.icon-okanagan.com
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“The only limitation to what one can create with wood is imagination.”
Guildmaster Furniture Ltd. (Lumby)
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xquisite one of a kind custom furniture, beautiful hand selected exotic woods, artistry, creativity and attention to detail. These are some of the things that come to mind when looking over the portfolio of work before us, the work of Peter Ross, the owner, designer and Master Craftsman behind Guildmaster Furniture Ltd.
With over 30 years of service in the Pacific N or thwest and British Columbia from right here in the Okanagan Valley Guildmaster´s focus has always been an emphasis on artistic creativity, quality of design, craftsmanship as well as an impeccable attention to detail. Whether your project entails the design of a simple piece of furniture, an elaborate custom suite, exotic one of a kind kitchen cabinetry or architectural millwork, Peter approaches each project with the same passion, expertise and pride. The ultimate goal being, complete and total customer satisfaction.
Mr. Ross began his career fashioning handmade guitars as well as restoring vintage musical instruments to their former immaculate state. Over the many years he spent honing his craft and indulging in his passion for fine wood working Peter’s skill and artistic vision eventually expanded to encompass the creation of incredible unique furniture pieces, custom one off bedroom suites, dining room suites, elite home finishing, custom kitchen cabinetry, executive office furnishings and beautiful unparalleled yacht interiors. 56
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“It’s about, artistry, product quality, efficiency of the products, product longevity, attention to detail, customer service, customer satisfaction, and value for the dollar.” -Peter Ross, Owner In today’s society it is almost impossible to even contemplate purchasing anything be it a car, clothing or in this case furniture or a custom suite without first seeing said object in three dimensions, if not directly in front of you then absolutely on the computer. Well at Guildmaster they have taken the time to implement Spring 2013
some amazing CAD software and have spent countless hours mastering the programs nuances in order
to provide their clients with a three d i m en s iona l coloured representation of their particular piece of furniture or a suite they are having designed. Throughout the design process, making use of this 3D modelling software allows for any and all alterations to be done before the piece is in production, saving the client time as well as money. Whatever your particular style or taste may be Guildmaster is capable of producing products in any given design category that is desired, bringing your vision to life. Given an idea, either a visual representation or description of the aesthetic appearance you’re trying to achieve as well as some physical dimensions to work with and Peter will begin the design process, ultimately developing something that will compliment both you and your home.
Whatever the project may be the professionals at Guildmaster Furniture love working with designers, contractors, architects and individuals alike. They enjoy any challenge sent their way and are always able to come up with new solutions and creative one of a kind designs. For more information about Guildmaster Furniture Ltd. please visit www.guilmasterfurniture.ca
Guildmaster Furniture Ltd. #10 Harris Creek Road Lumby, BC (250) 547-2579 www. guildmasterfurniture.ca
“When asked to define my personal style it would be simple lines, with combinations of many different types of wood including burls and unusual species. Somewhat, to the contemporary side with a touch of traditional thrown in. It may look simple but is very difficult to achieve dimensionally. Lots of curves and bends.” -Peter Ross, Owner Spring 2013
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gold GREEN greenGOLD
the Jade sculptures of Deborah Wilson
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ade, especially the green variety is a very popular stone used for sculptures and jewellery. Living in Canada we are used to little jade bears and Inukshuks and those of us who have travelled Asia will be familiar with the carved elephants and lions, but what do we actually know about jade carvings? We are fortunate enough to have one of North America’s top jade-carvers living right here in the Okanagan. Deborah Wilson comes from a family of medical professionals. The one family member who endeavoured the world of art was her paternal grandmother, silver work was her medium. An artist who made extra money as a baby sitter looked after young Deborah and her brother; she encouraged them to make figures in clay. Deborah still has her ceramic elephant from those preschool days which could very well be her first sculpture. The real awaking came in highschool with an art teacher who made the observation that her drawings had a 3 dimensional quality. She gave Deborah some modelling clay to take home with her, and the rest is history. Art school won out over university. Deborah applied for the 4 year Diploma Program at the Vancouver School of Art in 1969, focusing on sculpture. She spent her last semester finishing hard stone pieces for her grad show, and started as an apprentice as a jade carver with a company in Vancouver, New World Jade. In 1983 Deborah Wilson, motivated by the desire to work on her own in a smaller community, moved to Vernon. Three years later she found her present home and studio, which includes a large indoor space for jade carving and an outdoor area for larger projects. ICON Okanagan visited Deborah Wilson in her studio in Vernon. Kalamalka Reflections; Canadian Jade; 72”x53”x15”
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it is very challenging for most of them to promote their artwork to the point that they can make a living from it.
Metamorphosis; Canadian Nephrite Jade; 7”x4”
ICON Okanagan: Did the move to the Okanagan have a bigger impact on your commissions and sales? You came from “the big city” after all? Deborah Wilson: After the move to Vernon, I worked on small projects for an oil company to pay the bills, and thanks to a few patrons of note from the coast, I had numerous commissions to focus on as well. As time went on, connections were made with some collectors here in the valley. Currently there are several galleries in Vernon that have helped to promote my work which contributes to the number of sales in a year. ICON Okanagan: We’ve actually already had one of your artworks in ICON magazine, correct?
ICON Okanagan: We know many artists and it seems that Fall 2012 Spring 2013
ICON Okanagan: You mentioned your workshops ... Deborah Wilson: Teaching jade carving from my studio has been ongoing since 1993. I offer a 5 day session to no more than 2 people at a time. Participants have come from all corners of the globe and at all times of the year. Occasionally I take my studio on the road for 3 day workshops in communities that have expressed interest.
images: Deborah Wilson; Yuri Akuney
Deborah Wilson: Yes, in your very first issue. My sculpture Kalamalka Reflections, Vernon’s monumental jade sculpture adjacent to the Museum, is part of the legacy left from the Okanagan International Sculpture Symposium (OTISS) 2002. I have actually created several large sculptures for Vernon, both public and privately commissioned since 2000.
Deborah Wilson: It’s all about marketing and that can be challenging at the best of times. Because the demand for jade carving in Canada is minimal at this point, and the inevitable genre very specific, I have depended on selling my pieces in the US over the years. As a result, most of my clientele is American. I have done well in finding new international clientele through my website for both carvings and jewellery in jade. It is the most immediate and expedient way to promote my work and jade carving workshops. I am also part of a growing community of jade carvers who connect and exchange information through various Facebook groups. If a community of jade artists can educate the public about jade this way, then that will surely help in encouraging new collectors.
One idea I am continuing with is offering weekend jade & gemstone carving workshops for women. Why women? Well, the jade carving commuwww.icon-okanagan.com
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nity I have referred to is 98% male. I would be delighted to see more female imagery in jade and gemstone carving! ICON Okanagan: Of all the different types of jade available, which ones do you mainly use? Talisman; Black Australian Jade, Tufa Stone; 9” x 2 ¼” x ¼”
Deborah Wilson: I use Polar and Cassiar jade from BC which have spectacular greens and interesting inclusions. The other jades from BC (Ogden Mt and Kutcho Creek) are wonderful for the medium and monumental scale projects. The finest jade from Wyoming, Siberia and New Zealand are preferred for small sculptures and jewellery. These harder, more finely felted jades allow for relatively trouble free detailing.
ICON Okanagan: Jade sculptures and jewellery start with an expensive material and it takes many hours to carve any given piece. How does that all reflect in the price? Deborah Wilson: Yes, for western carvers, the time involved in creating a jade sculpture or a fine piece of jewellery has always been the main factor in determining the value of a piece. Due to the ever increasing demand for jade, material costs have skyrocketed. This now accounts for an increase in the price for unique jade works.
ICON Okanagan: Do you consider jade art to be a good investment? Deborah Wilson: The focus these days is still on the value of jade carvings made in China, both with antiquities and contemporary work. I find it interesting that some affluent Chinese jade collectors are now looking westward for new acquisitions. For those investing in contemporary jade carvings, it is the same with any other investment with art work. It is all about the artist; their history and reputation, and the collectors or museums that buy their work. ICON Okanagan: What about machined sculptures? Do they devalue the price? Deborah Wilson: There will always be a buyer for those sorts of jade carvings, but I see this as a separate market. The price is right, the
About Jade What is known as jade is actually two similar yet different minerals - Nephrite and Jadeite. Nephrite was used from prehistoric periods for carvings; jadeite was used as late as 1780 by the Chinese carvers after a large deposit was discovered in Burma (Miramar). Jadeite, which is seen as the rarer of the 2 jades, has about the same hardness as quartz, while nephrite is somewhat softer but known for the toughness because of its interlocking fibers. Nephrite can be found in a creamy white form (known in China as “mutton fat” jade) as well as a wide range of greens, browns, black and grays that rarely occur in jadeite, whereas jadeite shows more colour variations, including blue, lavender-mauve, pink, and emerald-greens. It is known as the “Stone of Heaven” or the true jade in the Chinese jade culture. Nephrite is the jade we mine in B.C. Canada exports more nephrite than any other country in the world. After the annual jade auction in Langley B.C., the majority of the boulders, mined and transported from the northern jade deposits, are shipped to China. 60
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customer is happy to have a jade carving, and may not even appreciate the difference between a hand carved sculpture and one carved by a CNC machine. ICON Okanagan: There are also many fakes out there, correct? Deborah Wilson: Jade has got to be the most misrepresented gemstone on the planet. The art of creating faux jades is as old as the history of jade carving. After a visual inspection of a suspect piece, one can easily perform the ‘scratch test’ by attempting to score the surface with a penknife. As jade is harder than steel, a scratch will indicate that it is not a true nephrite. There are “jades” that are transitional serpentines; they look like jade but are softer, such as Bowenite, a high quality serpentine. So yes, buyers beware!
ICON Okanagan: Thank you Deborah. We would like to encourage those of our readers who are interested in jade and jade carvings to contact you and to attend one of your workshops.
Spring 2013
www.deborahwilson.bc.ca
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BARRY LAPOINTE
Photo: Fresh Finish Photography
“Our payroll here is probably 45-50 million dollars a year and they have houses and they have mortgages and they buy cars and they have loans so do we have a financial impact on the city? Yes, I think we do.” 62
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FLYINGHIGH
Okanagan Icons
introducing PEOPLE who MAKE a DIFFERENCE
BARRY LAPOINTE FOUNDER, PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER FOR KELOWNA FLIGHTCRAFT
by Rick Maddison
THE SUCCESS OF FLIGHTCRAFT all came about with a telephone call in 1976 in the middle of the night from a man who phoned me and wanted a charter to Toronto. Well, I didn’t even know who he was. It was someone who worked for Purolator Courier. He had a problem and he knew I could solve it, and he needed me to do the job. So I took a large gamble on this call and made a quick decision to do the flight, and the rest as they say is history, because this set the stage for over 27 years of service. A POTENTIAL MECHANIC would come into the offices and ask for a job with Flightcraft and at the end of the interview if they were potential fits for Flightcraft I’d walk out with them and ask, where’s your car? I’d then look at his car for about a minute and judge whether I’d hire him or not by the way he took care of that car. Because if he had no pride in his car, how is he going to have pride working on my aircrafts? WHETHER YOU’RE WORKING for me or for yourself, pride and quality of work will dictate how successful you are.
I REMEMBER DOING A TRIP for somebody and they said, oh, let me buy the fuel. I said no, no, that’s ok and they said no, no, no, here’s $50 for fuel (laughs)…I said, it’s about $3500. NO USE HAVING AN AIRPLANE that can carry 20 tons of freight when you only have 10 tons of freight.
DIVERSIFICATION would be the word I’d use for the success of Kelowna Flightcraft. A MECHANIC was working on my airplane and he had the turbo charger out and on the wing of the airplane, I went over and I said, where’s your car? Oh I have this real nice Camaro. Oh good! Let’s go look at it. Really? Ya, let’s go take a look at it, and bring that turbo charger, he said why do I want to do that? I said because I want to put it on the roof of your car and see how you like my turbo charger on the roof of your car, because I don’t like my turbo charger on the wing of my airplane. GET A JOB that you wake up Monday morning and say geez I can’t wait to get to the office because I want do this, instead of saying, oh geez, I can’t wait until TGIF day, get drunk and fall down and spend all my money, then worry about getting up Monday morning and doing it all over again. A GUY WALKED UP and said good morning Mr. Lapointe and I said no, more importantly how are you this morning, they kind of look at you and say, oh, you care? In fact I do care, it is not Barry Lapointe who makes Kelowna Flightcraft successful, it’s the 1000 people who work here, and I do care how you are. OUR PAYROLL here is probably 45-50 million dollars a year and they have houses and they have mortgages and they buy cars and they have loans so do we have a financial impact on the city? Yes, I think we do.
I THINK THE CHALLENGE for Flightcraft is keeping our people happy, making this a good work place, feeling that they’re happy, and that they’re contributing to the success of it. SOMEBODY SAID TO ME why don’t you run for government? I’d last about 15 minutes. You know, the first time somebody said something I didn’t like, I might be politically incorrect.
Rick Maddison is proud father of Jack and Tess and has been married to his beautiful wife Joni for over 13 years. He runs a successful media company in Kelowna that creates memorable campaigns for his clients across Western Canada
ICON Okanagan on Tour Okanagan Arts Awards
Community Theatre, Kelowna March 2, 2013 Sarah, Ben, Alex
Trevor, Robert, Debbie Michael, Jakub
Becky
Emma, Laura
Chris, Gillianne Chelsea, Cassie
Klaus, Michael, AJ, Rick, Michele, Brit, Kevin, Kevin Anna, Andy
Nicole, Christine, Conny Tanya, Gayle
Jen, Isaac 64
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Todd, Kendra
Kristin, Justen Spring 2013
Created by the Arts Council of the Central Okanagan (ARTSCO) the Okanagan Arts Awards is an annual event celebrating the excellence in arts in the Okanagan Valley. Designed to support and encourage those who ensure that the arts thrive in the Okanagan, this red carpet event is a fantastic opportunity to get some face time with your favourite local artist, enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine as well as some fantastic food. Onsite and enjoying himself as usual was our very own food editor and local celebrity chef Michael Lyon, as would be expected, he was hard at work creating culinary magic for the many attendees. We had an absolutely fantastic time seeing some new and innovative works, mingling and were extremely happy to take part in this fabulous opportunity to promote the importance of art and culture in all of our beautiful communities throughout the Okanagan Valley.
Janette, Kristie
Mitch, Klaus
Noel, Lucy
Neal, Ben, Anna, Margo-Anne
An Okanagan Minute Canadian Culinary Championships 2013
And the winner is ... The competition was fierce, the determination was evident, as ten of Canada’s best chefs competed for top honours during the coveted Gold Medal Plates Canadian Culinary Championships on February 8 and 9, 2013 in Kelowna.
The new Champion: Chef. Marc St. Jacques, Auberge du Pommier (Toronto)
The two-day event started with a Friday evening Mystery Wine Pairing at the Hotel Eldorado where chefs prepared a dish they felt perfectly suited the mystery bottle of wine they had received the evening before. The next day, the Black Box Challenge held at Okanagan College gave all nine competing chefs one hour to prepare two dishes using six mystery ingredients.
The sold out Grand Finale at the Delta Grand Hotel saw the chefs competing in an all-out slam down competition in front of 600 wine and food enthusiasts. Stephen Leckie, Co-Founder of Gold Medal Plates said, “I salute Kelowna and all of the Okanagan for supporting and helping to sell out all three of our events. The contributions of the Okanagan wineries was also incredible. This event is bringing more and more people to Kelowna from across Canada and we are thrilled to see the Canadian Culinary Championships thrive here.” . www.goldmedalplates.com
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photos: Brian Chambers; ICON Okanagan (2)
- Local News and Updates
Do you know how many food products are made local, right here in the Okanagan? We were amazed when we saw the “local food” aisle at Urban Fare in Kelowna, and decided to share some of our best finds with you! So next time you are at your grocery store, make sure to shop & support local products. It’s out there! MOTEAS Started by Pierre and Amber Piché, MOTEAS is the result of their love of tea and desire to travel.
Caramoomel Inspired by heritage recipes the Dudka family decided it was time to share their fantastic homemade sauces, spreads, jams and jellies.
Knight’s Fine Chocolate Growing sour cherries at the base of Black Knight Mountain for almost 30 years, the founders of this company created their own line of fine chocolates. Food Angel Crackers These gluten free crackers are made of freshly ground almonds and loads of essential nutrients. Delicious! Habby Jacks You have to try this Habanero Peach Hot Sauce, made from fresh Habanero Peppers combined with other flavourable peppers. Fantastic flavour and heat!
Spring 2013
Poppadoms Spice Kit You love the food at their restaurant? Now you can use the same fresh spices! Imported and roasted by Poppadoms!
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The Must Have Kitchen Essentials
The Bartender’s Dream Touted as a unique Swiss-army (bar) knife, the Bar10der features not one but 10 utensils that the modern mixologist would require, ranging from a muddler, a jigger, a strainer to a stirrer among many others. www.thebar10der.com
Awarded Knife Set If you like great design and love to cook, this one is for you. Sculpted from one piece of stainless steel, these knives tuck back cleverly into each other like Russian dolls and is inspired by the Fibonacci Sequence! www.deglon.fr
The Chef Stand Tablets are fast becoming the newest kitchen gadget. Designed for the modern chef, the Belkin Chef Stand keeps your tablet convenient and safe in the kitchen - and the stylus keeps it free from any grease! www.belkin.com
Citrus Zinger Water Bottle This Citrus Infused Water Bottle sports a built-in juicer to help you get all of the healthy goodness from different citrus fruits. www.zinganything.com
Corn Dog Maker Make Carnival-Style Corn Dogs the healthy and easy way. Prepare the batter, dip the the corn dogs in and place them on the rack. Done! www.smartplanethome.com
The Smartest Fork Ever This fork monitors how fast you eat! If you’re too fast it vibrates, slowing you down to a pace that is optimal for your health! The fork pairs with a mobile app that not only tracks every bite, but also when your meal begins, ends and even how long each “fork duration” is. www.hapilaps.com
Strawberry Huller Perfect for making fresh fruit salads, strawberry shortcake and fruit toppings for desserts, this fun kitchen tool quickly removes the leaves and stem from a strawberry www.williams-sonoma.com 68
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Indoor Veggie Garden Grow your fresh herbs, flowers, vegetables, salad greens and more indoors, year-round. The AeroGarden provides the optimal amount of light, nutrients, water and air at the right times to produce optimal growth. www.aerogarden.com Spring 2013
photography by fresh finish photography
MARK F I L AT O W
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he Okanagan is quietly becoming a food hotspot with some serious culinary talent. Our food editor Michael Lyon will introduce some of the most brilliant chefs from east to west on a trans-Canadian culinary adventure. Chef Michael and the Icon team will make sure to expose your minds and your taste buds to the flavours of Canada and who knows? Maybe spawn some culinary creativity within the walls of your kitchen.
Mark Filantow, who recently represented the province at the Canadian Culinary Championships, is one of the top chefs in the Okanagan Valley. With over twenty years of experience, Mark, who is Executive Chef/Sommelier of Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar in Kelowna, represents the pinnacle of culinary excellence. Born into a family with European heritage and great appreciation for food, he graduated with honours from the Dubrulle Culinary Institute and honed his culinary skills at some of the most prestigious restaurants in BC including Tofino’s Wickaninnish Inn, Vancouver’s Bishops and Diva at the Met and Kelowna’s Fresco Restaurant. In 2001 Mark was accepted into the coveted Sommelier Guild, making him one of the only chefs in Canada with this level of skill in food and wine pairing. 2004 marked the year his dream of running his own restaurant came true and it wouldn’t take long to make it an instant success. By 2005 Mark’s culinary prowess was acknowledged by Enroute Magazine when they recognized Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar as one of Canada’s best new restaurants. Mark takes great pride in working with local farmers and sourcing the best products the Valley has to offer. He even grows many of the herbs and veggies used in the restaurant on his own farm. With all his awards and the continual stream of industry accolades, Mark still manages to keep his feet on the ground… and in the kitchen of Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar. If you want to taste the best of the season, paired with some exceptional wine, make sure to stop by!
MICHAEL LYON, Food Editor ICON Okanagan After studying at George Brown Culinary College in Toronto then Le Cordon Bleu in Ottawa and finishing his schooling in Paris, France, Michael Lyon traveled throughout Europe and was fortunate to work with some of the most prestigious chefs in the world. He became the first chef to win back to back Gold Medal Plates, a nationwide culinary competition, and was asked to film a Food Network show for Food Network Canada. Chef Off was nominated for a Gemini Award for best reality series in 2011. Today Michael travels often and resides in Kelowna where he is actively involved with the wine and culinary scene of the Okanagan. Spring 2013
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Steamed Dungeness Crab, Outlandish Mussels In White Wine, Blackwell Dairy Cream, and Clams Preserved Stoney Paradise Organic Cascade Tomatoes and Blackraven Farms’ Peas
Ingredients (serves 4): • • • • • • • • • •
1lb Outlandish Mussels 1lb Outlandish Manila Clams 1 Dungeness Crab(ask them to kill and clean it for you) (all available at Codfathers Seafood Market) 2 shallots thinly sliced 1/4 cup butter 1 cup White wine 1 cup Blackwell Dairy Whipping Cream 1/2 cup frozen peas 1/2 cup diced semi dried tomato or 1/2
• • • • • • •
cup fresh 2 TBS chopped fresh parsley 1 large wide pot with a lid that will hold at least 4litres 2/3 cup finely chopped walnuts 2 tablespoon plain bread crumbs 1 tablespoon melted butter 1 teaspoon olive oil pinch of salt and fresh ground black pepper
Preparation: 1. Scrub mussles and clams. Remove beards from Mussels (ask at the fish store to show you how) Separate the crab legs 2. Heat the pot on a medium high heat. 3. add butter, when foaming add shallots, cook while stirring for 30 seconds 4. add white wine, cook for 1 minute 5. add the cream, tomatoes, crab and peas 6. let the liquid come to a simmer and let simmer for 1 minute 7. add the shellfish and parsley, cook with the lid on for 3 minutes or until all of the shell fish are open
Divide in large bowls imediately. Accompany it with a crusty loaf from Okanagan Grocery. Don’t forget a soup spoon for all of the yummy broth and an extra bowl for shells! Goes great with a snappy Sauvignon Blanc or Chenin Blanc.
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photography by fresh finish photography
Chocolate Gianduja Mousse Bar With White Chocolate Caramel, Local Raspberry Sorbet, Marinated Orange Ingredients (serves 6 .. or 4 with 2 left over): • • •
250g Gianduja chocolate (Hazelnut Milk Chocolate) 250ml whipping cream 1 TBS Frangelico
• •
coating chocolate (you will need 400g) 1 8x4 inch loaf pan
Preparation: 1. melt Gianduja chocolate in a double boiler 2. slowly stir in 100ml of the cream and the Frangelico. Whip until it cools to room temperature. Set aside. 3. whip the remaining cream to a medium peak. Fold it into the chocolate mixture. 4. Pour into a saran lined loaf pan and set in freezer overnight. 5. Remove the pan from the freezer invert the chocolate out onto a cutting board. Let sit for 2 minutes. Slice into six portions with a knife run under hot water. Set back in freezer. 6. in a double boiler melt the coating chocolate, dip the chocolate mousse bars one at a time and set on a parchment paper lined tray. Place in fridge until ready to use. Mark’s Baguette dough. Hand made with a natural starter that used Stoney Paradise Organic Grapes to get it going. 25% of the flour is locally milled by Wolfgang’s Grain and Flour.
To serve ... remove the bars 30minutes before serving. Place on plate. Serve with a scoop of Raspberry Sorbet (Sandrine’s makes an excellent one). Garnish with fresh mint and orange segments tossed in sugar. Goes great with a Tawny Port or a late harvest Cabernet Franc.
Spring 2013
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Yes, we are getting there! Winter still blew some last angry blasts our way in March but we already had a couple of beautiful days with an unseasonally warm sun announcing that Spring is finally here. And Summer just around the corner. Now it is all about the sounds, smells and tastes of Spring - and time to move the full bodied reds that we loved so much during the cold days to the back and find out what Whites, Rosés and lighter Reds we have. Ah, yes, the flavours of Spring! So here is our pick for the season ... again we toured our wineries and tried to find those that pair best with fresh salmon, asparagus, a goat cheese salad or a flavorful strawberry and rhubarb meringue.
Heaven’s Gate 2010 Pinot Gris “Peaceful serenity, natural beauty, romantic ambiance … discover a heavenly experience.” This family run vineyard and winery only opened in August 2011. Situated in Summerland, overlooking Okanagan Lake, we picked the right day to enjoy the breathtaking view from their spacious patio, and sample what we think is the perfect wine for Spring and Summer - the 2010 Pinot Gris. Pinot Gris (and Grigio) ranks as a major Canadian variety and is often called the “Okanagan’s Signature White.” Heaven’s Gate’s 2010 Pinot Gris will definitely affirm this. A finalist in the 2012 Best of Varietal and co-winner of the People’s Choice Award in Summerland’s 2011 Fall Fair Wine Tasting, Winemaker Andy Sarglepp and wine consultant Christine Leroux made an excellent Pinot Gris with beautiful and intense aromas and flavours. The nose is scented with sweet peach, melon and grapefruit, and on the palate a hint of lime and crisp apple with subtle minerality adding to a wonderfully delicious finish. This is definitely a great patio-sipper for a warm late afternoon with your buddies and family. We would pair it with some great cheese, light pastas or seafood. Avoid anything that has higher a acidity - there’s enough in the wine already!
Retail: $19.90 Alc./Vol.: 13.9%
www.heavensgatewinery.ca
Meyer Family Vineyards 2011 McLean Creek Pinot Noir We don’t have to introduce this boutique winery to you - you most likely already read the article about them in this issue (page 50), so let’s concentrate on one of their premium releases, the 2011 McLean Creek Pinot Noir. The Meyer Family initially produced Chardonnay from their Vineyards on Naramata Road, before they purchased another vineyard on McLean Creek Road in Okanagan Falls. Here, winemaker Chris Carson, could add his true passion, Pinot Noir, to the Meyer Family Vineyards’ portfolio. A very young wine which will only reach its full potential when cellared for a few years, this Pinot Noir has a nice big nose and an exceptional lengthy finish. Full-bodied, it is a mouthful of ripe fruit and minerals; layers of red berry flavours and brown sugar, long, elegant, and well-balanced with the already mentioned remarkable lengthy finish - we can only imagine what this wine will taste like in a few years! As for the food pairings ... Pinot Noir is a food-friendly and extremely versatile wine. It is one of the lightest bodied of the red varietals, which makes it a fantastic wine for Spring. It pairs exceptionally well with almost the entire spectrum of foods, including seafood! Yes, it is a rule-breaker and won’t overpower lighter flavours of seafood. We actually enjoyed it with a cedar plank grilled salmon.
Retail: $40.00 Alc./Vol.: 13.5% 72
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Mission Hill 2011 Reserve Riesling If there is a grape that Germany is famous for it is most likely Riesling. It originated in the Rhein and Mosel river valleys in Germany and is one of the most popular grapes today. We first sampled the 2011 Mission Hill Reserve Riesling in August 2012 just shortly after it had been released. Harvested in November 2011 after a growing season that began cooler with late Spring rains followed by warmer weather (with the highest temperatures ever recorded for an August and September), it benefits from an extended ripening period giving this Riesling a very distinct aroma. It mixes the well-known citrus and floral bouquet with a hint of ripe fruit, but to our surprise, seems to show very few of the often overwhelming and dominating mineral aromas. This Reserve Riesling - and by the way, “Reserve” in this case just categorizes it into one of the four tiers of wines from Mission Hill Family Estate - then really surprises you when you have the first sip. Instead of the expected citrus taste it has flavours of peach, pears, and stone fruits, leading to a very nice sweet and sour experience balanced with a very nice acidity and an almost chalky, crisp and dry finish (giving it a Riesling’s typical mineral character.) We would serve this wine around 12 degrees Celsius as it loses some of his characteristics at a higher temperature. As for the perfect food pairing ... a Riesling is an extraordinarily versatile wine. As we were fortunate enough to sample it on a nice and sunny day, we decided to have it with a chicken salad.
Retail: $19.99
Alc./Vol.: 12.5%
www.missionhillwinery.com
Sumac Ridge Steller’s Jay Sparkling Gewürztraminer Senior Winemaker Mark Wendenberg and winemaker Jason James are the creative masterminds behind Sumac Ridge’s sparkling wine program. Not just their assignment as one of the official wine suppliers of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games established the Summerland Winery as a premium producer of first-class wines and sparkling wines; Sumac Ridge actually developed BC’s first traditional method sparkling wine - Steller’s Jay Brut. “Tribute”, their sparkling wine for the Olympic Games, has long been a favourite of ours, but one of the newer additions, Steller’s Jay Sparkling Gewürztraminer, could be some fierce competition! A spicy (“Gewürz” means “spice” in German) and fruity wine with a perfumed and flowery bouquet, the Gewürztraminer is actually perfect for a flavourful sparkling wine. And exactly what we want for Spring! Think exotic flavours of lychees, think tropical fruits such as pineapples and grapefruits ... and now combine it with some tonguestimulating bubbles! YES! It is a winner! As the regular Gewürztraminer, its sparkling brother is an excellent companion to many foods but it pairs especially well with Asian dishes or zesty-flavored fare like BBQ or chicken wings. We were fortunate enough to have the most amazing Thai Green Curry Chicken dish with this amazing wine, and believe us - it worked! Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses: To Spring! May it be a fantastic opener to a wonderful Summer!
Retail: $24.99 Alc./Vol.: 13.5% www.sumacridge.com
Spring 2013
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Vernon Tourism Visitors Center 701 Hwy 97 S ph. (250) 545 5493
Lake Country Visitors Center #40-9522 Main Str ph. (250) 766 5670
Vernon & Lake Country 1
1
2
Okanagan Spirits Distillery
Vernon & Kelowna
Arrowleaf Cellars
1574 Camp Road
3 Ex Nihilo 1525 Camp Road 4 Gray Monk 1055 Camp Road 5
50th Parallel Estate Winery
17101 Terrace View Rd
Kelowna
8 9
Maps are for illustrative purposes only.
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4
2
3
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Ancient Hill Winery
4918 Anderson Rd
Calona Vineyards
1125 Richter St
10 Cedar Creek Estate 5445 Lakeshore Rd
11 St. Hubertus Estate Winery 5225 Lakeshore Rd.
12 Summerhill Pyramid Winery 4870 Chute Lake Rd.
13 Tantalus Vineyards 1670 Dehart Rd.
14 The View Winery 2287 Ward Rd..
15 House of Rose Winery 2270 Garner Road
16 Sperling Vineyards 1405 Pioneer Road
17
Okanagan Spirits Distillery
West Kelowna 20 Beaumont Family Estate Winery 2775 Boucherie Rd.
21 Kalala Estate Winery 3361 Glencoe Rd.
22 Little Straw Winery 2815 Ourtoland Rd.
23 Meadow Vista Honey Wines 24 Mission Hill Family Estate 1730 Mission Hill Rd.
25
Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery
26
Quails Gate Estate Winery
27
829 Douglas Rd.
3303 Boucherie Rd.
Rollingdale Winery
2306 Hayman Dr.
28 Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2845 Boucherie Rd.
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9 17
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22 21
27 20 25 26
15 14 16
28
24
13
12
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10
34 33 32
Peachland 32 Greata Ranch Est Winery
33 Hainle Vineyards 5355 Trepanier Bench
Highway 97S
Maps are for illustrative purposes only.
544 Harvey Ave ph. (250) 861 1515 TF:1-800 663 4345
Summerland
36 8th Generation Vineyard
39 Hollywood&Wine Vyrd
37 Dirty Laundry Winery
40 Silkscarf Winery
6807 Highway 97S
9819 Lumsden Ave
7311 Fiske St
4917 Gartrell Rd.
38 Bonitas Winery 20623 McDougald Rd
5914 Gartrell Rd
41 Sonoran Estate Winery
42 Sumac Ridge Est Winery
48 Black Widow Winery
1630 Naramata Rd.
49 D’Angelo Est Winery
979 Lochore Rd.
50 Hillside Est Winery
1350 Naramata Rd.
51 Kettle Valley Winery
2988 Hayman Rd.
52 La Frenz Winery
57 Poplar Grove Winery
1060 Poplar Grove Rd
58 Red Rooster Winery
891 Naramata Rd.
59 Ruby Blues Winery
917 Naramata Rd.
60 Bench 1775 1775 Naramata Rd.
61 Spiller Estate Winery
740 Naramata Rd.
475 Upper Bench Rd N
53 Lake Breeze 930 Sammet Rd.
170 Upper Bench Rd S
54 Lang Vineyards 2493 Gammon Rd.
940 Debeck Rd.
55 Laughing Stock
1548 Naramata Rd.
56 Mistral Est Winery
250 Upper Bench Rd.
62 Stonehill Estate Winery 63 Therapy Vineyards 64 Township 7 Vineyards
1450 McMillan Ave.
Peachland Visitors Center
17403 Highway 97
5812 Beach Ave ph. (250) 767 2455
43 The Vinegar Works
10216 Gould Ave
TF: 1-866 955 2455
44 Thornhaven Est Winery
West Kelowna Visitors Center #4-2375 Pamela Rd. ph. (250) 768 3378 TF: 1-866 768 3378
Okanagan Connector Visitors Center 3960 Hwy 97 N
ph. (250) 767 6679
6816 Andrew Ave.
Penticton & Naramata
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Kelowna Tourism Visitors Center
34 Working Horse Winery
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62 Stonehill Estate Winery
170 Upper Bench Rd S
63 Therapy Vineyards
940 Debeck Rd.
64 Township 7 Vineyards
1450 McMillan Ave.
65 Zero Balance Vineyards
1865 Naramata Rd.
66 Painted Rock Est Winery
400 Smythe Rd
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67 Pentage Winery
4400 Lakeside Rd
68 Perseus Winery
134 Lower Bench Rd
69 Misconduct Wine Co.
375 Upper Bench Rd..
65 Zero Balance Vineyards
1865 Naramata Rd.
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Penticton Visitors Center
Okanagan Falls, Oliver & Osoyoos
Summerland Visitors Center 15600 Hwy 97
553 Railway Street ph. (250) 493 4055
ph. (250)494 2686
Oliver Visitors Center
Osoyoos Visitors Center
36205 93rd Street ph. (250) 498 6321 TF: 1-866 498 6321
Jct Hwy 97 & 3 ph. (250) 495 5070 TF: 1-888 676 9667
74 Meyer Family Vineyards 83 Fairview Cellars 4287 McLean Creek Rd.
13147-334th St.
75 Church & State Winery 84 Gehringer Bros Est Winery 93 La Stella Winery 31120 87th St.
13166-326 Ave (Road 8)
8123 148th Ave
76 Blasted Church Winery 85 Hester Creek Estate Winery 94 Nk’Mip Cellars 378 Parsons Rd
13163-326th Ave (Road 8)
77 Noble Ridge Vineyard 86 Inniskillin Vineyards 2320 Oliver Ranch Rd.
32074-123rd St. (Road 11)
78 See Ya Later Ranch 87 Jackson-Triggs 2575 Green Lake Rd.
38691 Highway 97N
79 Stag’s Hollow Winery 88 Le Vieux Pin
38
92 Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 32830 Tinhorn Creek Rd (Rd 7)
2237 Sun Valley Way
34070 - 73rd St.
1400 Rancher Creek Rd
95 Moon Curser Vineyards
3628 Highway 3 East
96 Eau Vivre Vineyards
716 Lowe Drive
97 Forbidden Fruit Winery
620 Sumac Road
80 Burrowing Owl Est Winery 89 Oliver Twist Estate Winery
42
98 Herder Winery & Vyds
100 Burrowing Owl Place
33013 Rd 9a
2582 Upper Bench Rd
13140 - 316 Ave (Road 13)
2686 Middle Bench Rd.
81 Cassini Cellars 90 Road 13 Vineyards 32056 Highway 97
91 Silver Sage Winery 82 Chandra Estates Winery 32032 - 87 Ave
33264-121 St
99 Robin Ridge Winery
100 Seven Stones Winery
1143 Highway 3
39 43
44
36 40
37
Maps are for illustrative purposes only.
51 63 54 53
41 65 60
64 55 66
57
88
49 59 58 61 68
69
83
68 64
62 56
82 92
84
89
85 86 81 90
91
i 75
80
67 66
93 96, 97, 98, 99 ,100
76
94
95
78 Spring 2013
79 77
74 www.icon-okanagan.com
ICON OKANAGAN
77
NUMBERS DON’T LIE ARE YOU TIRED OF THE LACK OF PERFORMANCE IN YOUR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO?
STOP LOSING MONEY! HOW DO YOU LIKE AN AVERAGE ANNUALIZED RETURN * IN EXCESS OF 10%? The Income Plus Guided Portfolio is an actively managed portfolio of 15 to 20 Blue Chip Dividend Paying stocks. We hold each of the stocks individually for clients so you see exactly what you own at all times. Since this portfolio was launched in 1999, it has generated an average annualized return* in excess of 10% per year for investors. Even in 2011 when the Toronto market was down 8.7%, this portfolio managed an attractive positive return. This past year, 2012, the return was in excess of 15% - significantly outperforming the Toronto market gain of 7.2%. This portfolio has a current dividend yield of approx 4.4%. With the tax benefits of the dividend this is equal to over 6% on a bond or GIC for investors in the top tax bracket. If you would like to sit down to see if this opportunity makes sense for you, or if you would like a review of your current situation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
*Performance returns for our Guided Portfolios are not audited, and not calculated according to CFA Institute ‘Performance Presentation Standards’. Returns are calculated on a total return basis including dividend income. The returns are used to gauge performance by comparing the returns of the Portfolios to benchmark total return indices such as the S&P/TSX 60. Historical performance is not necessarily indicative of future performance. Each client’s return will vary depending on number of shares purchased, as well as the timing of the purchases. The author is an employee of ScotiaMcLeod, a division of Scotia Capital Inc. (“SCI”), but the data selection, analysis and views expressed herein are solely those of the author and not those of SCI. The author has taken all usual and reasonable precautions to determine that the information contained in this publication has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. This ad is for information purposes only. ® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used by ScotiaMcLeod. ScotiaMcLeod is a division of Scotia Capital Inc. (“SCI”). SCI is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
Vista Financial Group (Landmark V Building) 600 - 1620 Dickson Ave Kelowna, BC 250-868-5534 1-800-663-2609