August 2017 FREE
Speed Demon
BMXer Brody McLean, 9, races against best on the planet www.oksun.ca
IN THIS ISSUE Young Oliver woman, 17, crowned B.C.’s Rodeo Queen
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ABERDEEN PUBLISHING INC. www.aberdeenpublishing.com
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Chamber of Commerce starts restructuring
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Young Oliver woman crowned B.C. Rodeo Queen
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Blount steps down from junior golf program
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Resilient artist, fashion guru hopes to inspire youth
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Speed Demon: Brody McLean, 9, races the best
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Star Rattler, Gurlal Dhaliwal, to play on college team
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Osoyoos barrel racer goes against best in U.S.
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Local pharmacist wins award for innovation
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Photographer learns lesson from bear encounter
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Oliver girl thinks outside the box
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Around Town events calendar August 2017
EDITOR
RICHARD MCGUIRE editor@oksun.ca
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BRIAN HIGHLEY brianhighley@aberdeenpublishing.com
Speed Demon
BMXer Brody McLean, 9, races against best on the planet
ON THE COVER Brody McLean, 9, is an Osoyoos BMX champion who takes his sport very seriously. He’s off to South Carolina to compete against some of the best BMX racers on the planet. (Lee Cejalvo Photography) See story Page 12.
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We welcome feedback from our readers. Send comments to editor@oksun.ca or mail to Box 359, Osoyoos, BC V0H 1V0, Telephone 250-4957225. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in whole or part by any means without the written permission of the publisher. While every care has been taken with this publication, the author(s) and publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this publication. © 2017 Aberdeen Publishing. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement. ISSN 2291-2991.
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Gyll Burton, 10, of Osoyoos, gets sprayed in the face with water as she tries to fire a water cannon. She was one of the numerous children participating in the Town of Osoyoos’ Family Splash Day at the splash park in July. For those who missed it, there’s another Family Splash Day on Aug. 16. (Richard McGuire photo)
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OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 3
Chamber of Commerce starts restructuring By Dan Walton As local economic needs shift, so too does the role of the Chamber of Commerce – and right now the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce is in a period of self reflection. For various reasons, three directors and the former executive director all departed around the same time earlier this year. Instead of replacing the position of executive director, Chamber member Veronica Vinge is taking a six-month leave from her duties as a board member to focus on restructuring efforts. Vinge said the Chamber isn’t necessarily going to replace the position of executive director, and may instead hire contract workers to fill the role. “Do we hire some specialists, membership and marketing and administration to get the right skills and talents in place as opposed to just one person who wears all hats?” Vinge contemplated, adding that she will not be taking over the role of the executive director. Although the Chamber hasn’t yet completed its new road map, Vinge said that a stronger presence on social media would be a larger part of their future. The Chamber will be re-evaluating how it goes about using traditional media, though Vinge said audiences in the South Okanagan seem to read local newspapers more than their urban counterparts. Also, the best methods for communicating with members will continue to be fine-tuned with more face-to-face communication. The Chamber is still very active during this period of reconstruction. They have a meeting coming up with Accelerate Okanagan in hopes of spurring more techindustry investment in the area. And Community Futures Okanagan Similkameen will be hosting a series of training events for marketing and social media.
“It’s an exciting time,” Vinge said. “The growth opportunities in our region are huge and the opportunity for our Chamber to play a vital role in supporting our businesses is there.” But it isn’t business as usual just yet. “We’re not defining it as normal or the new normal; we’ll be completing this new restructuring then we will review in November,” she said. Chamber president Brian Highley said the organization will be placing its eggs in different baskets from now on, stepping back from events planning to focus stronger on economic development. Also moving forward, downtown revitalization efforts in Oliver will be taking up more of the Chamber’s energy, he said, and they’re also in talks right now to create a program with the Kelowna Airport to shuttle flyers into the South Okanagan. Furthermore, there will be even deeper conversations with members to gain insight into policy writing, so that the local Chamber can advance its ideas to the BC Chamber and then lobby the provincial government accordingly. The Chamber is also collaborating with the towns of Oliver and Osoyoos and the regional district for Okanagan Falls to complete a feasibility study for a Regional Business Support Program. “We’re also hoping to plug into nearby networks in a more meaningful way – try and connect with neighbouring chambers,” said Highley. Right now there are around 300 members on the local chamber. The number of board members, which was increased to 11 earlier this year, has dropped back down to nine after the attrition. The Chamber is actively recruiting to fill the vacant positions, with the goal of equal representation from all three areas: Oliver, Osoyoos and Okanagan Falls.
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OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 5
Keianna James from Oliver was overwhelmed to be crowned B.C.’s Rodeo Queen after finishing in the top spot in a June provincial tournament in Merritt. (Stuart Bish Photography)
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Young Oliver woman, 17, crowned BC’s Rodeo Queen By Dan Walton The National High School Finals Rodeo in Wyoming is the Stanley Cup Championships of teenage horseback riding, and British Columbia’s Rodeo Queen – Keianna James from Oliver – has qualified for this year’s Queens Competition. James, who’s almost 17, was crowned Rodeo Queen after finishing top spot in a provincial tournament in June in Merritt. “Oh my gosh it took so much work,” she said of the provincial competition, which she qualified for by competing in other events throughout the school year. To finally earn the title of Rodeo Queen, she had an exceptional performance at a series of pageants. “I had to do a two-minute speech, I had to model, answer impromptu questions and demonstrate horsemanship patterns; patterns specific according to the rule book – it shows how much horsemanship you have in your horse.” James rides a 10-year-old horse named Auzzie that belongs to her sister, and James said much of her experience was gained by watching her sister compete with Auzzie in years past. “Auzzie is a nice easy-going horse and I have a lot of energy,” she said. “It’s easy for me with calm horses. You need to be more energetic to get them excited and moving. We’re kind of the perfect pair because we’re
opposites. He’s really nice to everyone, relaxing and enjoyable to ride.” And after busily practicing and competing together, James said it was a major excitement and relief to receive the crown, banner and title of B.C. Rodeo Queen. “I’m still blown away that I’m the queen,” she said. But beyond the honour and prestige of being the province’s Rodeo Queen, James will forever be drawn to the sense of community that riding offers, which she said is like one big family. “I love rodeo and I love spending time with my family; travelling to ranches outside of Oliver, meeting new friends and making tons of new memories with them,” she said. “Falling off the horse and getting back up has really sunk in as a major lesson in life.” Recently, James was off to take her riding career to the next level at the National High School Finals Rodeo in Gillette, Wyoming. There, she was to compete against riders from 47 different states and provinces. “It’s a really good opportunity because everyone is so humble.”
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www.osoyooshomehardware.ca Winning the title of Rodeo Queen was a lot of work for Keianna James, who had to be an orator and model, not to mention an authority on horsemanship. (Contributed photo)
Since 1985 OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 7
Bob Blount proudly stands beside three generations of golfers he’s helped coach in the Junior Golf Development Program at Osoyoos Golf Club. They include (from left) Alex Brunner, Mia Stevens and Marli Mikulecky. (Keith Lacey photo)
After two decades of inspiring young golfers, Bob Blount steps down By Keith Lacey Marli Mikulecky insists she would never have become a talented and successful golfer without her participation in the Osoyoos Junior Golf Development Program. Bob Blount, one of the founders of the successful program that has taught the basic fundamentals and proper etiquette to hundreds of young golfers for more than 20 years, organized a special celebration luncheon recently at the Osoyoos Golf Club. Mikulecky was one of Blount’s star students in the early days of the program as she went on to earn a golf 8 www.oksun.ca
scholarship at Mississippi State University, before transferring to Eastern Washington University, where she has earned a Masters degree in business administration. Mikulecky, who now works and lives in Kelowna and is the three-times ladies club champion at the Kelowna Golf and Country Club, said her love affair with the game of golf had already started when she joined the junior development program. The skills and work ethic she developed as an elite young player were honed during her participation over many summers in the junior program, she said. “It really, really helped my game,” said Mikulecky. “I
already loved golf when I joined the program, but Bob and the other teachers worked on my skills, taught me sportsmanship and helped me develop a work ethic and you need a solid work ethic to succeed in golf.” She met many good friends through the junior development program and has remained good friends with Blount and the other volunteers who dedicated their time and skills to help young local golfers, she said. Blount, 82, who is a retired high school teacher, said he had to do something special to honour all of those who helped found the program and make it the huge success it became over more than two decades. “I couldn’t just walk away without doing something special,” he said. “This program has been a huge success for more than 20 years and I wanted to try and bring as many people as I possible could that were involved in helping the original group that got it all started back in the mid-1990s. “To the members of the community and the Osoyoos Golf Club who came together over the years to establish and fund the Junior Golf Development Program for the youngsters of our community, as well as all of you who volunteered over the years to create and support a very positive experience for our youngsters, I say thank you,” said Blount. Blount took the time to single out Don Forsyth, who was in attendance at the luncheon on Saturday, as well as John Gane and Brian Petreny, for their hard work in getting the program established in those early days more than 20 years ago. Financial support from the local business community has allowed junior golfers to sign up for the program at very low rates for more than 15 years, said Blount. The Osoyoos Credit Union has sponsored the program since 2002 and allowed the program to develop the motto, “to not let financial difficulties stand in the way of a child’s dream,” said Blount. The program has been a resounding success from the first year and helped develop an amazing amount of young golfing talent, said Blount. The Junior Golf Development Program was developed to give the children of our community an introduction to the game of golf and to help individual youngsters to expand their skills and compete at the highest level. As well, many of the members stayed in Osoyoos, raised
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families whose children became members of the later program, he said. Players like Andrew Goncalves, Lee Alarie, Robbie Wildman, Neil Ferreira and Tyrell Griffith all graduated from the program and went on to play professional golf at various levels, he said. Mikulecky became one of the top female players in the province, he said. The key to success of the program was to teach the basics and instil a love of practice in the kids who joined, said Blount. “We started every single session since I got involved with the basics such as proper grip, stances and backswing,” he said. “We never strayed from the basics.” It’s a testament to all of the volunteers through the years as Osoyoos has produced an incredible number of outstanding junior players for a small town this size, said Blount. Blount said he and his wife Lynne have developed some of the best friendships in their lives through their involvement with the junior development program. Blount was near tears when he admitted he’s going to miss his involvement helping junior golfers develop. “I’m age 82 now and aside from my family and friends, being involved in this program is one of my proudest achievements,” he said. He’s thrilled Claudia Wood, a three-time ladies club champion at Osoyoos Golf Club, and a strong contingent of volunteers have committed to continuing a junior golf program at Osoyoos Golf Club this summer. “I’m really happy there will be a program for junior golfers,” he said. “We did a great job for more than 20 years and now it’s time for another group to take over.” Blount said he hated to leave out anyone who has helped him through the years, but wanted to make sure he acknowledged many long-time supporters. They include Arnie and Anne Polischuk, Maxine Day, Donna Mikulecky, Laura Slater and the Slater family, Sharon Gesce, Osoyoos Golf Club office manager Audrey McCulloch, Ben Petreny, Justin Snoeke, Alex Brunner, Mia Stevens, Rick Harris, Stan and Wendy Coutu and Lou Turcotte for his great philanthropy to the program over many years. “I hate to miss anyone, but there are certain people we could not have done this without,” said Blount. “This get together was all about saying thanks for the memories.”
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OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 9
Well-known artist and photographer Leza Macdonald practically lives in an art gallery full of many interesting characters ... including herself. (Lyonel Doherty photo)
Resilient artist, fashion guru hopes to inspire youth with experiences By Lyonel Doherty The things we didn’t know about Leza Macdonald. The things we never asked. Pouring over fashion magazines with her cat sitting on the table, you are suddenly drawn to one photograph of her modeling a spring outfit. This must be an old photo because she looks beautiful at 22, but you’re shocked to learn she was actually 50-something when that picture was taken. She’s 62 now. Her small home on McGowan Road is an art gallery, literally, with so many interesting characters who look like they could jump off the canvas to strike up a conversation with you. Including that naughty little penguin that has a habit of looking up women’s skirts with a mirror. A steampunk girl in the hallway gives you a look that says, “keep your distance.” But you can’t because she’s a bad girl … just like Macdonald used to be in Vancouver’s East End. Leza Macdonald a bad girl? Damn right! 10 www.oksun.ca
She used to street race her 1965 Mustang on the Lougheed Highway. “I beat a 1968 Corvette once,” she says proudly. Macdonald also has no shame in admitting she grew up as a foster child when her parents made “mistakes.” The only thing she could relate to with her parents was art because they were artists. And that was the best thing that rubbed off on her. At the age of six, people used to ask her if she traced all of her impressive drawings. They were shocked to learn that she didn’t. Her cat with the Egyptian face is content, despite the bite marks on one ear following a recent street fight. It likes the stranger taking notes at the table, as long as the massage continues. At the age of 10, Macdonald’s first social worker was, get this … a 22-year-old Marion Boyd from Oliver. “She was the one who had faith in me. All it takes is one person to have faith in you,” Macdonald says, showing her smile for the millionth time. Unexpectedly, she notes that being a foster child was the best thing that ever happened to her.
“I have made really good choices,” she says, reminiscing about her photography and art career. She opens a thick photo album and quickly thumbs through its pages. There’s Bill Gates, whom she learned likes Coca Cola for breakfast. There’s astronaut Roberta Bondar and actors Michael Moriarty and Cloris Leachman. Macdonald was the official photographer for the APEC CEO summit in Vancouver, where she took a portrait of China’s president. She was also flown to Mexico to take photographs of The Beach Boys and boxer George Foreman. And in Hawaii, she took pictures of Howie Mandel. Macdonald found herself basking in the glow of the world’s movers and shakers, but learned that the more successful she became as a photographer, the farther away she was getting from her dreams – pursuing art and inspiring children. Then one day the world stopped when she witnessed two young people die from gunshot wounds during a squabble in Gastown. She remembers closing her curtains, at which point her life changed. “I didn’t need to be an A-list photographer (anymore). I wanted a simpler, smaller life because Vancouver was violent and I wanted out.” The cat disappeared from the table, probably miffed that she was being ignored. A mannequin decked out in frilly fashions stood near the picture window. If only she could talk. “My best work isn’t done yet,” Macdonald says, breaking the silence. She’s asked what’s up with the penguin trying to peek up women’s skirts. She only chuckles. “From foster homes to photographing presidents, if I can inspire someone else, I will,” she says with conviction. Another conversation thread reveals that she has never been married and has never had children of her own. And no regrets there. “I never wanted to be anybody’s wife or anybody’s mother,” she states emphatically. “But I’m glad I had a long affair with Bob Parker.” (No, not the Price is Right guy – his name is Bob Barker.) One has to wonder if Macdonald ever gets mad … re-
ally mad. Funny you should ask this because she got “spitting mad” recently after her pending deal to purchase Oliver Daily News fell through. “I thought I could make a difference by buying it and promoting local people and the youth who are doing great stuff.” But unfortunately it didn’t work out and something in her mind said it wasn’t the right thing to do anyway. So she followed the advice of friends who encouraged her to establish her own online presence at www.oliveronline.ca. Macdonald calls it her gossip site, but is quick to note that it’s the good kind, not the hurtful stuff. She describes it as a fun website that promotes the Town of Oliver and gives people a chance to chat about art, wine, cars, culture and farming. “We don’t have enough respect for farmers. Without farmers we wouldn’t have athletes and movie stars.” Macdonald says the “frivolous” site won’t be competing for hard news. “I’ve always wanted a ‘good news’ paper … I’m going to turn our town into stars. That’s my goal.” In September, Macdonald will also be opening her own art gallery in Beyond Bliss on Main Street. She plans to feature guest artists, too, and hopes this is where she can inspire youth.
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OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 11
Speed Demon
Brody McLean, 9, takes his sport seriously. (Peter Kalasz Photography)
BMXer Brody McLean, 9, races against the best on the planet By Keith Lacey Despite his young age, Brody McLean has battled against the best young BMX racers in Canada and the United States and now he’s taking on the best young racers on the planet. 12 www.oksun.ca
McLean, 9, and his mother Kirsten left Osoyoos recently for Rock Hill, South Carolina where Brody is competing in the Union Cycliste Internationale (ICU) World BMX Championships. Brody, a national age group champion last year, is competing in two different classes at the world champi-
Brody McLean takes a leap on his bike. His father, Len McLean, says the chance to compete against the world’s best in South Carolina is “an experience he will remember for the rest of his life.” (Anthony Lyons photo)
onships – the regulation class featuring race bikes with 20-inch and cruiser class with 24-inch wheels. There will be 110 competitors from around the world in the age nine regulation class and more than 80 are registered in the cruiser class, which is open to riders age 12. Team Canada is sending one of the largest contingents of BMX competitors to the world championships with 320 registered, said Brody’s dad Len McLean. This is truly a world event with young competitors from around the globe, he said. “Team Australia is sending 275 riders and there will be competitors from across South America, Europe, Asia, Latvia and Russia,” he said. “BMX is a huge sport around the world and all the best kids will be at the world championships.” Brody heads to the world championships feeling healthy, which is a good thing considering he’s had a bad luck streak recently. At a competition in Chilliwack in May, he had a severe fever the entire weekend, which didn’t allow him to perform to his best ability, he had a severe cold when he competed at the Vancouver Island competition in early June and crashed and needed stitches at a provincial series event in the Lower Mainland more recently ago. “He’s had a rough go of it so far this year, but he feels good now and is ready to go,” said his mother. Brody is so serious about BMX racing that he already has a personal trainer as Jorg Mardian, the owner of 360 Fitness in Osoyoos, has him on a training schedule and he also spends endless hours doing hill climbing and sprints near his home in Osoyoos. In South Carolina, the point totals accumulated over three preliminary runs determine who moves on to the quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals. All competitors race three times (BMX races are called motos) and they ride with the same group in those three races. At the end of three rounds, the riders in each category with the best overall results qualify for the next round.
Eventually the field is reduced to 16 in the semi-finals and eight for the finals. “If you crash in the first round, you get another chance to race, but after the first round, if you crash or don’t finish in the top four of eight, then you’re done,” said Len. While Brody is ultra-competitive and has proven himself to be one of the best young riders in Canada, he and his parents realize he’s battling the very best BMX racers in the world. “To be honest, this isn’t about winning because out of the 110 riders who will be racing in the regulation class in his age group, Brody has raced against maybe five or six of them,” said Len. “We’re looking at this as an experience he will remember for the rest of his life. “Not many kids age nine can say they got to compete in a world championships, so being named to Team Canada and being able to represent his country at a big event like this is an opportunity we just couldn’t pass up.” After the world championships, Brody is going to have a very busy summer as he will be competing in a big event in Kelowna the second weekend in August and then he’s off to the Canadian national championships in Calgary the last weekend in August. He will also be competing in the provincial championships in Kamloops the second weekend in September. Brody’s younger brother Zane also competes regularly on the provincial circuit and will be joining his brother at several of the upcoming events. Brody’s parents couldn’t be prouder of his success. “The kid lives and breathes BMX,” said Kirsten. “He’s worked really hard to achieve all of his success.” Len usually travels to big events with Kirsten and Brody, but his construction business is very busy so he can’t make the trip to South Carolina, but he’s cheering him on from Osoyoos. As Brody continues to get bigger and stronger, he says he’s using this trip to gain experience and he hopes he will continue to excel and improve as his BMX career continues over the next several years. OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 13
Fans react as Gurlal Dhaliwal advances with the ball in a game earlier this season. (Richard McGuire photo)
Star Rattler to play on college team By Richard McGuire A star player from the Osoyoos Rattlers senior basketball team, Gurlal Dhaliwal, has been selected to play with the Okanagan College Coyotes during the upcoming season. Dhaliwal, 18, graduated recently from Osoyoos Secondary School (OSS) and he plans to study business at Okanagan College in Kelowna. “I was one of 90 kids who tried out,” said Dhaliwal, adding that most of the others were in their second or third year of college. Those trying out were narrowed to 22, then 18 and finally to 12 players of which Dhaliwal was one. “There are only three kids that are in first year and I’m one of them,” he said. “I’m the only single A kid on the team.” Dhaliwal, who is six feet, five inches tall, towered over his teammates on the Rattlers. On his new team, however, he says he’ll be more in the middle height-wise with three or four teammates taller than him. Rattler’s Coach Casey Brouwer was excited by the news. “I am very proud of him and all that he has accomplished in his years at OSS,” said Brouwer. “He is a great player and a great person.” Brouwer added that Dhaliwal was named most valuable player for the 2016-17 senior boys basketball team. “He will be missed,” Brouwer added. “He was a great 14 www.oksun.ca
asset to the team. I’m very happy to see him carry on with basketball.” Brouwer said Dhaliwal is the first player he’s coached to go on and play at the college level. “I am looking forward to attending some of his games,” he said. “If Gurlal continues to work hard and is focused, he has potential of going far with basketball.” Dhaliwal said he’s been playing basketball since he was about six years old. He started with the junior Rattlers in Grade 8. In Grade 10, although he was a junior, he played on the senior team before becoming a senior in grades 11 and 12. He’s happy with the time he spent with the Rattlers, who had a strong season until they were defeated in the Valleys playoffs tournament. “It was a fun experience,” he said. “I learned a lot and had really good relationships with the coaches and the players.” Also during his time in Grades 10 to 12, Dhaliwal played in Kelowna with the University of British Columbia (Okanagan) junior heat team. He also was on a B regional team in Kelowna and during grades 10 and 11 he played with the GINI Elite Basketball Academy from Kelowna as well. His schedule for the coming season isn’t yet confirmed, but Dhaliwal said he could be playing with his new team as early as this month.
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OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 15
Nevada Dynneson, her mother Deonna and her horse Savannah recently headed for Wyoming, to compete for the second consecutive year in the U.S. National High School Rodeo championships. (Keith Lacey photo)
Osoyoos barrel racer goes up against best in the U.S. 16 www.oksun.ca
By Keith Lacey In the wonderful world of rodeo, you often have to travel thousands of miles for a few seconds of glory. But that’s all part of the game for Nevada Dynneson, 17, who is one of Canada’s top high school barrel racers. Nevada and her mother Deonna left recently for Gillette, Wyoming, which is once again hosting the U.S. National High School Rodeo Finals. Nevada is the defending British Columbia high school girls’ champion in barrel racing and one of Canada’s top competitors in the unique sport that sees horse and rider navigate as quickly as possible a course featuring several barrels. Nevada competed at last year’s American high school championships and finished 23rd out of a field of 180 or so young female barrel racers. The difference between first and 23rd place was less than half a second. “Literally every millisecond counts,” said Nevada’s proud mother. “The top 20 girls move on to the finals and Nevada missed out on being in the top 20 by fractions of a second. “The difference between first place and 25th place is less than three tenths of a second, so that shows just how competitive the sport has become.” To become a provincial high school rodeo champion, Nevada and her horse Savannah spend endless hours training and practicing at Indian Grove Riding Stables in Osoyoos. “I’m here almost every single day,” said Nevada, who recently completed Grade 11 at Osoyoos Secondary School. “We do a lot of trail work to build conditioning with my horse … as Savannah gets older, she doesn’t like being in the ring as much as she used to. What you don’t want to do is burn out your horse, especially with the intense heat we get here in Osoyoos.” Competing against the top female high school barrel racers in the United States is a challenge Nevada welcomes. “Only the top four from each state qualifies for nationals, but they are amazing riders as rodeo is almost like a religion, especially in the southern states,” she said. “When you’re up against the top four girls from all of Texas, you know you’re facing the best of probably 1,000 talented riders “The level of talent at nationals is unbelievable.” Nevada said her main goal is to make the top 20 and
compete in the final two days of competition. “I was close last year by finishing 23rd and I’d love to make the top 20 and get to the finals weekend,” she said. “That’s my goal.” It takes roughly 17 seconds for the top competitors to navigate the course in Wyoming and the standings are based on totalling the time from two runs, she said. The top 20 girls move on to the finals and get two more runs to determine a champion. In order to improve her technique, Nevada’s mother videotapes most of her training runs to try to find areas where they can save precious time. “The difference between winning and losing at this level is so close that you have to try and find every advantage you can,” said Deonna. “By videotaping her training runs, we’ve been able to find little things she can improve on and try and find that perfect ride.
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Every little error costs you tenths of a second and it all adds up when you get to this elite level. Deonna Dynneson “Every little error costs you tenths of a second and it all adds up when you get to this elite level. On their way to Gillette, Nevada and her mom planned to attend a rodeo in Cody, Wyoming in a venue that hosts rodeo events seven nights a week during the summer months. “It will be a good chance to get in one final training run before nationals,” said Deonna. “The facility in Cody is amazing because they host rodeo seven nights a week and the stands are packed every single night.” After competing at the high school nationals in Gillette, Nevada and her mom planned to drive straight to Nanton, Alberta for the Canadian National High School Rodeo championships. Deonna, who competes part time with her daughter on the Canadian professional rodeo circuit, said she couldn’t be prouder of her daughter. “She’s a very hard worker and has earned all of her success,” she said. With one more year of high school remaining, Nevada said she and her mother will be returning to the U.S. high school finals once again next July.
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OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 17
Owner/pharmacist Chris Pasin of Remedy’sRX in Oliver was recently bestowed with the Ben Gant Innovative Practice Award. (Lyonel Doherty photo)
Local pharmacist wins award for innovation By Dan Walton The owner of a local pharmacy has been hailed for his innovative efforts in curtailing opioid abuse. Chris Pasin, who owns several Remedy’sRXs including the one in Oliver, has been a pharmacist for 26 years, and he’s helping his colleagues adapt to the evolution of pain treatment. “We used to just dispense medicine,” he said. “Now we’re expected to play a much more active role in patient health care and their well-being.” Promoting that rationale in depth won Pasin this year’s Ben Gant Innovative Practice Award. “Things are going in the right direction, no doubt,” he said. “But we still have to get people in the old school of thought to change the way they think – pharmacists, patients, doctors, everyone.” The current model leads to many patients to depending strictly on pills to deal with chronic pain, he said. “It’s not just pills that will help people, they need physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. All forms of professionals need to be on the same team.” But the cost comparison between a bottle of pills and an appointment with a councillor or physiotherapist will be a tough challenge to overcome. “For $30 you can have a month supply of oxycodone, whereas it costs $45 to $50 per appointment at a chiropractor,” Pasin said. Also, it’s generally more common for workplaces to cover prescription medications than other treatments, he stated. 18 www.oksun.ca
“Medications are definitely the go-to covered product.” And while excessive opioid use became increasingly problematic for years, Pasin said the rate of prescription drug abuse has gone down in the South Okanagan. That’s partially thanks to an Interior Health initiative he led on family medicine. His educational programming for treating chronic pain with narcotics is what helped win him the innovative practice award. “Doctors are becoming more educated,” he said. “The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia have gotten involved as well.” It’s also important to prevent patients from resorting to illicit drugs. Drugs purchased through an underground economy are often facilitated in basements or garages without any methodical consistency, he said, and potencies can drastically vary. And with fentanyl tainting illicit drug markets in recent years, overdose deaths are being reported in record numbers. Before last November, there had never been 100 overdose deaths in a single month in British Columbia. Since then, there haven’t been less than 110 deaths in a month. “(The fentanyl crisis) has to have a finish but who knows when that will be. I don’t think it will be the near future,” he said. To Pasin, the most frustrating aspect of opioid abuse is how preventable it is. “Every pharmacist can say they’ve witnessed it – somebody who treats a sore knee, sore back or minor ailment has that turn into a major drug problem. But these are manageable and avoidable. We know it doesn’t have to turn into a drug problem.”
MEETINGS
Osoyoos Rotary meets Thursday at noon at McKia’s Restaurant in the Best Western Hotel, Osoyoos. Osoyoos Woodcarvers meet Monday 9:30 a.m. upstairs at the Osoyoos Arts Centre. Call Joe at 250-495-5079 for info.
Kiwanis Club of Osoyoos meets at noon on the second and fourth Monday of each month at McKia’s Restaurant. For info contact 250-495-7701.
Soroptimist International of Osoyoos meets the third Tuesday of the month at McKia’s Restaurant, Best Western Hotel, Osoyoos at 6 p.m. Call Joan 250-495-2929 if wanting to attend.
Stroke-Brain Injury Recovery group meets Friday from 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Osoyoos Health Centre, 4816 89 St. Osoyoos Elks #436, second Wednesday meet at 7 p.m., Elks Hall, 8506 92 Avenue. Call Annette at 250-495-6227 or Ken Thibault at 250-495-3936.
Women’s weight loss, “Lean Living”. Weekly meetings, Wednesday at 1 p.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Phone Althea at 250-460-0391 or email Althea@womengrowingstrong.com for more information. Osoyoos Autoimmune Support Group meets every second Wednesday of the month at the Osoyoos Health Centre, 4816 89th St., from 1:15 -3:15pm. Join us for discussions on Sjogren’s, RA, Lupus, Fibro, etc. Everyone welcome. Call Marilyn 250-495-0666.
OLIVER THEATRE
O’s Own Writers meet the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Osoyoos Arts Centre. New members welcome. Call Jody 250-4952170.
Enjoy your evening out, taking In a movie at the Oliver Theatre!
August, 2016 Programme Visit Our Website
Osoyoos Photography Club meets the first and third Monday at the Sonora Community Centre, 6:30 p.m. Except summer. For more information 250-4954960 osoyoosphotoclub@gmail.com.
www.olivertheatre.ca
Summer Showtimes 7:00 & 9:00 p.m. Nightly (unless otherwise stated)
Phone 250-498-2277 Oliver, BC
Sat. - Sun. – Mon. – Tues. Aug. 19 - 20 - 21 - 22 Showtimes nightly @ 7:00 & 9:10 p.m.
Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. Aug. 2 - 3 - 4 Showtimes nightly @ 7:00 & 9:10 p.m.
The Multiple Sclerosis group meets the second Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Interior Health office, 4816 89 Street, Osoyoos. Call Ron at 250-4984372 or Donna 250-495-5001.
There will also be a matinee of this show on the Sat. at 2:00 p.m. All seats $6.00 for the matinee. at 2:00 p.m
Osoyoos Quilters meet on the first and third Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. Call 250-4952254 or 250-495-4569. Evening quilting every first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Vera 250-495-2738. Elks Lodge, 8506 92 Ave.
Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. Aug. 23 - 24 - 25 One Showing Nightly @ 7:30 p.m.
Coarse language, violence.
Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues. - Wed - Thurs. - Fri. Sat. Sun. Mon. Tues. Wed Thurs. Fri. Aug. 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10 - 11 Showtimes nightly @ 7:00 & 9:25 p.m.
Parkinson’s Support Group meets on Monday from 1 - 3 p.m. at Sunnybank Lodge in Oliver. Call Rod Freeman 250498-8427 for more info. Toastmasters ... “Where leaders are made”. Drop in any Tuesday 7 p.m. at the Osoyoos Baptist Church, north side entrance, Hwy. 97 and 62nd Ave. Contact Sam 778-437-2130 or samdimou@ yahoo.com.
Violence, coarse language.
Sat. - Sun. – Mon. – Tues. Aug. 26 - 27 - 28 - 29
AA meetings every Monday 7 p.m. St. Anne’s Catholic Church. Every Friday 7 p.m. St. Christopher’s Anglican Church. Call Louise 250-495-1627 or 250-6890415.
Violence.
Sat. – Sun. – Mon. – Tues. – Wed - Thurs. – Fri. Sat Sun Mon Tues. Wed Thurs. Fri. Aug. 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 - 18
The Osoyoos Library Book Club meets the third Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in the library. Artists on Main paint Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. upstairs at the Osoyoos Arts Centre. Sue 250-4957664. The Osoyoos Royal Purple meets the third Wednesday (except July and Aug.) at 7 p.m. at the Osoyoos Elks Hall, 8506 92 Ave. For info call 250-495-7788 or 250-495-7561.
Violence, coarse language.
Violence, coarse language.
Programme Subject To Unavoidable change without notice
OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 19
Osoyoos Photographer Stewart McLeish opened a solo exhibition of his work at Jojo’s Café on July 29. Behind him on the left is a photo of Lower Antelope Canyon near Page, Arizona and on the right is a photo of an old woman in Quito, Ecuador. (Richard McGuire photo)
Osoyoos photographer learned lesson from encounter with grizzly bear By Richard McGuire When Stewart McLeish photographed a grizzly bear running in his direction at close range, he admits now that he should have been more scared. That photo is one that the Osoyoos photographer is showing in a solo exhibition at Jojo’s Café, that opened July 29 and runs until Aug. 25. “We were standing slightly behind a bush,” McLeish recalls, describing the episode on a bear photography tour on the Alaskan Panhandle. “It wasn’t exactly cover, but one of the things I was thinking about later on was I realized the most frightening part of the whole trip was we weren’t afraid,” said McLeish. “That taught me a lesson that just because you feel comfortable in your environment, it doesn’t mean you’re safe – especially with bears.” He admits he took a risk, but said he trusted the experienced bear guide who accompanied them. 20 www.oksun.ca
The bear photo, he said, “was a disaster” because the action happened quickly and there wasn’t time to find the proper camera settings. He looked at the photo a couple times a year for several years, but considered it a lost photo. But then, as he was learning to use Adobe Photoshop software, he decided to practice his new skills on the bear image. “That was the result and it’s actually one of my favourite photographs,” said McLeish, pointing to the framed photo that now hangs over his mantle. He likes the action of the advancing bear and also the way the light strikes it. McLeish, now nearly 69, dabbled in black and white photography in his early 20s, printing photos in a makeshift darkroom in his bathroom. He had to give that up when his children grew out of diapers and needed to use the bathroom. After a career in retail, McLeish, then living in Airdrie, Alta., was sidelined with an illness in the early 2000s. In
Vitamins and Minerals You Need
Stewart McLeish captured this photo of a grizzly bear running in his direction from about 50 feet away. He admits he should have been more afraid, but he was with an experienced bear guide. He originally considered the photo “a disaster,” but after working on it in computer software, it’s now one of his favourites. (Stewart McLeish photo) 2005, he rediscovered photography and found it therapeutic. Now embracing digital, he took up landscape photography in the national parks of the Canadian Rockies. Soon he evolved to photographing flowers, but after a while he decided to take up the challenge of photographing wildlife. “I’d never done any wildlife,” he says. “It’s a lot trickier, because the light’s unpredictable and so are the movements of the animals.” For about a year, he practiced by spending a few hours each week at a friend’s dog daycare, taking photos of the dogs in a basement with poor lighting. “That taught me quite a lot about lighting and the unpredictability of animal movements,” he said. Unlike many amateur photographers who take up landscapes and wildlife, McLeish then went on to photograph people. Two of the photos he planned to show at Jojo’s are of indigenous women he met in Quito, Ecuador. “The people shots I like taking are people with a lot of character in their
faces,” he says. He called one woman “Mother of the Earth,” but when the photo appeared on the National Geographic website, a woman with knowledge of the Inca culture suggested he should name it “Pachamama” after the Earth mother goddess of the Andes. “I know it sounds weird, but I look at her every day and she says something different to me,” he said, gesturing to the large photo hanging on his wall. McLeish has shown his work in Osoyoos before as part of collective exhibitions with the Osoyoos Photography Club at Jojo’s and at the Osoyoos Art Gallery. But this is his first solo show since moving to Osoyoos in May 2016. He wants viewers to take away emotions from his photos. “When I look at a photograph, it brings back the feeling for me that I had when I saw it,” he said. “I want to do that for people who are looking – to build emotion. It won’t be the same as mine, but I want them to be involved.”
You can get most of the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function properly simply by eating a sensible, wellbalanced diet that includes fresh fruit and Greg Wheeler, vegetables, Pharmacist whole grains, and proteins. However, there are many instances when a healthy adult may need to take additional vitamins or supplements such as being on a restricted diet, having food allergies, during pregnancy, or having certain medical conditions. Here are the most important ones and what they do for your body. Riboflavin: cell growth, function and production of energy Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): forms collagen in bones, muscle, and blood vessels Zinc: helps cells grow and heal. assists immune system Calcium: increases bone mass Folic acid (Vitamin B9): maintains and repairs cells, builds DNA, forms blood cells Vitamin B12: maintains a healthy nervous system Iron: creates proteins that carry oxygen, red blood cells and muscles can’t function without it Vitamin D: helps keep normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood Vitamin A: assits in vision, bone growth, reproduction, and cell division. Remedy’sRx carries a wide variety of vitamins and nutritional supplements. Speak to your Pharmacist about which ones are right for you.
105-291 Fairview Rd Oliver
250.485.4007
OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 21
Former Oliver Ambassador Ishika Gill was selected to take part in a summer program that will challenge her to be an innovative leader. She is shown here during her previous ambassadorship candidacy. (File photo)
Oliver girl thinks outside of the box By Lyonel Doherty A 16-year-old girl from Oliver has been selected from 800 students across Canada to participate in an enrichment program that fosters innovation and leadership. Ishika Gill, a former Oliver Ambassador, may become one of tomorrow’s change makers after attending the SHAD program this month for exceptional high school students. The intense program, in residence at a host university, focuses on science, technology, engineering, math and the arts to help students reach their full potential. Immersive workshops and activities offer a new way to understand the world. Students like Gill will be challenged with a big, complex issue and are asked to find solutions while working with peers. Gill said SHAD is a once-in-a-lifetime program that will broaden her learning outside of school. She was chosen after writing two essays and submitting an academic page certified by Southern Okanagan Secondary School. 22 www.oksun.ca
“From this experience (at SHAD), I hope to learn to face challenges, think outside of the box, and learn more about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.” After high school, Gill wants to attend university and become a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. “I have chosen this path because when my sister was younger she had very crooked teeth, and ever since I was little, I went to appointments with her and have known from a very young age that I wanted to become a dentist.” Gill said she is interested in science and technology because it keeps advancing, and with those advancements you keep learning more about these subjects. Gill was asked what concerns her about the world today, and what difference she wants to make. “I want to make a difference in the world by making the world a happier place. Nowadays, everyone is always so stressed out and busy, even I am guilty of this, but by taking the time out of your day to volunteer, play sports, make someone else smile, everyone can make this world a better place.”
Osoyoos Market on Main at Town Square. Saturday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesday from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Live entertainment, artisans, fresh produce, sewing, home baking and so much more. There will be night tours at the Osoyoos Desert Centre on Aug. 3 and Aug. 10. $10 per person and advance registration is required. Please call 250-495-2470. Final two dates. Oliver Music in the Park is every Thursday throughout August from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at the Oliver Community Stage bandshell, 6359 Park Dr. Admission is by donation. Bring a lawn chair. 250-498-0183 or OliverCAC@gmail.com for info. Osoyoos Music in the Park is every Friday throughout August until Sept. 1 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Gyro Beach bandshell at the foot of Main St. Free admission. The Osoyoos Library Summer Reading Club will be held on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. For information, call 250-495-7637. Front Street Gallery presents guest artist Georgia Krebs ‘Observations of Life’ from Aug. 4 – 17. Please join Georgia at the vernissage artist opening event on Saturday, August 5 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 60 Front Street, Penticton. Stream Restoration Field Trip on Saturday, Aug. 5. The community is invited to join in at the Triple Creek restoration site in Washington for an opportunity to learn more about stream restoration. Pre-registration is required. For more info contact julie@okanoganhighlands.org or call Julie at 509-476-2432.
AUGUST
Presented at Jojo’s in Osoyoos fabulous Canadian music with Celtic, Bluegrass, and Folk Flavours. A concert with Saskia and Darrel; The Great Plains on Saturday, Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets $15 available at 8316 Main St.
books, CDs, DVDs at the Town Square from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. All proceeds go towards improving the Osoyoos Library. Please drop off donations of good clean books at the library.
Celebrate Canada’s 150 birthday by running Osoyoos first annual 5 k road race sponsored by FreeStyle Fitness. Sunday, Aug. 6 at 8:30 a.m. Starts and finishes at Legion Beach. $20 includes t-shirt and category awards. For information, Mike Cater 778-245-2642.
Frank Venables Theatre in Oliver is holding an open house on Saturday, Aug. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon as part of the SOHS and SOSS All Years Reunion. Oliver Community Theatre Society is hosting the event. Come and look at this beautiful state-of-theart performance venue. Everybody welcome.
Finding Inspiration with the South Okanagan Metaphysical Centre. Sunday, Aug. 6. 10 – 10:20 a.m. meditation 10:30 – 11:30 meeting. Osoyoos Senior Centre, 17 Park Place. Call Rev. Norma Cowie 250490-0654 for further information.
The Town of Osoyoos presents “Family Splash Day” on Wednesday, Aug. 16 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Osoyoos Splash Park, Jack Shaw Gardens, 89th Street and Kingfisher Drive. Come down for an afternoon of family fun.
St. Andrew’s players presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Tinhorn Creek Winery. Tickets are $20 available at the winery or at the door for the Aug. 9 and 10 performances starting at 7 p.m.
View the Great American Solar Eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon at Desert Park in Osoyoos. The Science of the Sun brunch and celebration will be especially geared to youngsters. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7.50 for students and youth aged 13-18. Accompanying children from one to 12 can attend free of charge. Tickets include brunch, entertainment and a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses.
On Aug. 10, net proceeds from every Blizzard Treat sold at Dairy Queen will support your local Children’s Miracle Network member hospital. Big group? You can even preorder them. Grab your team, coworkers or friends, and help make a difference in a child’s life. There will be a gathering of all SOHS and SOSS students from all years August 11- 13 in Oliver. More info on Facebook sohs & soss all year gathering or email janahoult@ gmail.com.
The Art Gallery Osoyoos Summer Artisan Market is open to Sept. 5. Pottery, paintings, art cards, jewelry and more. Daily 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Corner of Main and 89th St. Send your events to: events@osoyoostimes.com
The Friends of the Library in Osoyoos will hold their annual book sale on Aug. 12. Come and browse OKANAGAN SUN • August 2017 • 23
What’s on Wednesdays? Something different every week…. Preschool special events from 9:30-10:30 9:30 10:30 and all ages fun from 11:00-3:00 9:3011:00 3:00 pm 11:00Wed, August 2nd Get Bent Bellydance performs 1:15 Arts and Crafts Wed, August 9th
Bounce House and Balloon twisting with Pirate Jack
Wed, August 16th Golden Sneaker Scavenger Hunt / Chalk Art Wed, August 23rd Jake and Damian Evans— Evans— Interactive Hip Hop performance Sat, August 12th
Shriners Car Show | Kenyon and Christie Memorial
Sun, August 13th Ultra Swim | Skaha Lake Sun, August 13th Sax Among Friends | Live Music at the Bandshell 5:00-7:30 5:00 7:30 pm 5:00Sun, August 27th Shindigger | Live Music at the Bandshell 5:00-8:00 5:00 8:00 pm 5:00-
Yoga and Fitness classes for ‘any-body’: ‘any body’: okfallsrec.ca ‘any-
Indicates an Okanagan Falls Parks and Recreation event
24 www.oksun.ca