JULY 2011
50 YEARS WITH
Osoyoos Street Dance turns 25 Medici’s:
European-style charm and unique church setting
FREE
www.oksun.ca
100%OKANAGAN locally owned SUN • July 2011 •
Sun Sightings Sage Mesa Boil Water Notice Rescinded In response to Okanagan Lake turbidity levels returning to a “Good� rating on the Turbidity Index, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is rescinding the BOIL WATER NOTICE for the Sage Mesa Water System effective June 30th, 2011. For more information contact the RDOS at 250.490.4135
Veronica Highley (above) tries the strawberries at Covert Farms in June. The OK Sun file photo at right was taken at The Festival of the Tomato in 2007. Covert Farms is bringing the festival back this year, after a 3 year hiatus
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Letters Dear Okanagan Sun, A change of venue and a change of time proved to be very successful for the 2011 Relay For Life in Osoyoos on June 4. This year the event was held at Osoyoos Gyro Park for the first time. Instead of an overnight event the Relay kicked off at 12:00 noon with a Survivor’s Lap and wrapped up at midnight. Altogether over $40,000.00 was raised through pledges from the Relay participants, the Silent Auction and donations. There was non-stop entertainment with local talent donating hours of their time and keeping the crowd on their feet with songs,dance and games. The Luminaries were lit at 9:30 with a quiet time honouring those who have been affected by cancer and those who have lost their battle with this terrible disease. The Luminary Lighting is a quiet time and a very beautiful ceremony, This year the Relay attracted 18 teams with 150 participants. I am sure we are all looking forward to the 2012 event.
John R. Cooper FOR ALL ALL YOUR YOUR LEGAL LEGAL NEEDS NEEDS FOR Real Estate Estate Conveyancing Conveyancing Real Real Estate Estate Development Development Real Will & & Estates Estates Will I. C. C. B. B. C. C. Cases Cases I. Corporate & & Commercial Commercial Corporate
495-2626 495-2626
8145 Main Street 1-8302 MAIN STREET 1-8302 MAIN STREET Osoyoos OSOYOOS OSOYOOS EMAIL: jrcooper@telus.net jrcooper@telus.net EMAIL:
Thanks to all, Carole Bissonnette Relay for Life Committee 2011
OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 •
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CONTENTS • JULY
PUBLISHER
BRIAN HIGHLEY has run international campaigns with Adbusters magazine and published the OK Sun newspaper in Osoyoos. He is of course writing this, and feels strange referring to himself in the third person.
50 Years With Covert Farms 6 Osoyoos Street Dance Turns 25 12
REPORTER & PROOFREADER ANDREA DUJARDIN-FLEXHAUG has been living in the South Okanagan and writing for newspapers for 25-plus years, ever since she graduated from the Journalism Program at Langara, VCC
Medici’s: European Charm, unique church setting
14
End of the track at Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad 18
CONTRIBUT0RS
A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. ~ Winston Churchill JULY 2011
50 YEARS WITH
COVERT FARMS
Osoyoos Street Dance turns 25 Medici’s:
European-style charm and unique church setting
FREE
www.oksun.ca
100%OKANAGAN locally owned SUN • July 2011 • 1
ON THE COVER
Shelly and Gene Covert of Covert Farms celebrate over 50 years of bringing their passion to the community. Photo Brian Highley
www.oksun.ca
18
BERNIE BATES is a writer, cartoonist, poet and entrepreneur of native heritage, who grew up on a ranch. “I was the only kid I knew that could play cowboys and Indians all by myself!”
DEREK HIGHLEY is a Class A Member of the PGA of America, is TPI Certified and is a full time Golf Instructor teaching over 1,500 lessons annually. JORG MARDIAN is a Certified Kinesiology Specialist, Myoskeletal Therapist, Fitness Trainer and Registered Holistic Nutritionist. He specializes in injury/pain therapy, functional fitness, weight loss and holistic nutrition.
We welcome feedback from our readers. Email comments to brian@oksun.ca, or mail to Box 177, Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R0 Tel 250.535.0540 No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in whole or part by any means without the written permission of the publisher. Whilst 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. © 2011 Okanagan Sun Publishing. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement.
Complete issues are available online at:
www.oksun.ca
OK SUN
IN THIS ISSUE
T
hank you for picking up this copy of the Okanagan Sun. We extend a special welcome to those travelers visiting the South Okanagan this summer. We hope that you enjoy all of the unique features that this part of the world has to offer - as those of us who live here certainly do. In this issue we salute the Covert Family, who celebrate over 50 years of farming at Covert Farms. It is clear from speaking with Shelly Covert that the family has no intention of resting on their laurels, as she discusses some of the exciting programs and projects that the farm is running this year, including the return of the Festival of the Tomato after a three year hiatus. Speaking of great traditions in the
South Okanagan, this year marks the 25th anniversary of the Osoyoos Home Hardware Street Dance. We check in with long-time friend to the Okanagan Sun Frances Sologuk to find out what keeps motivating her to throw the parties year after year. We are certainly thankful that she does. Incidentally, we heard through the grapevine that Frances was one of the many folks who took to the streets of Vancouver to help with the cleanup after the riot this past June. This comes as no surprise to anyone who knows Frances; to say that she is community-minded would be a terrible understatement. Maybe some of us could help Frances clean up after both of the street dances this year? Or volunteer at the event in
OLIVER THEATRE Enjoy your evening out, taking in a movie at the Oliver Theatre!
July, 2011 Programme
All movies presented in Dolby Stereo Surround
We're Airconditioned
*
some other capacity? What better way to show our appreciation than to chip in? We’re looking forward to the great parties again this year! 50 plus years for Covert Farms, 25 years for the street dances and hot on their heels is Medici’s Gelateria and Coffee House in Oliver - who have just passed the one year mark! Congratulations go out to owner Silvia Badger, who we meet in this issue to learn about the relaxing atmosphere and European-style charm of Medici’s. As always, we invite everyone in the community to submit their stories, pictures, club news, columns and artwork to be printed and shared.
brian@oksun.ca
*
Summer Showtimes 7:00 & 9:00 P.M. Nightly (Unless otherwise stated)
Phone 250-498-2277
Oliver, B.C.
Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues. - Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues. - Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. July 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 July 23 - 24 - 25 - 26 - 27 - 28 - 29 Showtimes at 7:00 & 9:15 p.m. Nightly
Available at
Violence.
Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues. - Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. July 9 - 10 - 11 - 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 Showtimes at 7:00 & 9:10 p.m. Nightly
Sexually suggestive scenes, nudity.
Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues. - Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. July 30 - 31, Aug. 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 Violence.
There will also be a matinee of this show on Sat., July 16 at 2:00 p.m. All seats $4.50 for the matinee.
Showtimes at 7:00 & 9:30 p.m. Nightly
Sat. - Sun. - Mon. - Tues. - Wed. - Thurs. - Fri. July 16 - 17 - 18 - 19 - 20 - 21 - 22 ONE SHOWING NIGHTLY AT 7:30 P.M.
enes.
Now Open in Okanagan Falls! Manufactured/Modular Homes & Park Models
BC Built Call Blair
Violence, coarse language.
Subject to Classification Programme subject to unavoidable change without notice
778-515-5555 OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 •
YEARS with
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I
t is June 15, 2011 and Shelly Covert is in in the process of ordering cabbage from a distributor. “How much did we order last time?” she asks. Her previous order was 25 pounds, and she orders the same again... in essence, turning to the past to be able to see into the future. Today is the day that Covert Farms begins their Organic Home Delivery program, which brings organic produce to homes from Osoyoos all the way north to Peachland, and everywhere in between. It is the latest project for the Covert family, who are celebrating over 50 years of bringing their passion to the community. George Covert, part owner of Hayman & Covert Tomato Packing Company in Tracy, California first heard of the Okanagan in 1959 while talking to his broker in Calgary, who mentioned a truck load of apricots from Oliver, BC. Intrigued by a climate suitable for growing soft fruit and vegetables in Canada, George came to the Okanagan Valley to see for himself. On a weekend trip in the dead of winter, he discovered and purchased the undeveloped mesa north of Oliver, that was to become Covert Farms. After selling his partnership in the packing company in 1961, George brought his wife Winnifred, and their two sons Calvin and Michael, to Oliver to start their new life in Canada and Covert Farms. Calvin managed their cattle ranch on Richter Pass in Osoyoos, while Mike Mike and George Covert in 1965
helped George in the vegetable business. Winnifred kept the books and sold produce out of the window of the old office. “We’re a little over 50 years now,” says Shelly Covert, George’s granddaughter-in-law. “It started in 1959. Gene’s grandfather bought the land in 1959. He had a family start planting it and running it for him until 1961; that’s when he moved his whole family here and started running the farm and really started producing the onions out of here.” The first thing that they did was
plant a few fruit trees, and then they started into planting onions and tomatoes in 1961. Covert shifts discussion slightly from the timeline to George Covert as a person. “He was a fellow that just started his business from the ground up. He was a self-starter who had the love for the land.” Covert says that George was in his mid 50’s when he told his family that they were moving to Canada. “He was heading towards retirement, and his wife was definitely heading
Now Available at
in Oliver towards retirement, and bought up this land and a ranch as well. He was hands-on. In the ground, in the soil, loved his land.” Covert’s eyes briefly scan the ground, and the rain begins to fall. “He was here all the time,” she says. “And I think he really passed that on to both his sons.” As Covert explains, George’s son Mike was involved in the farming aspect of the land, while his brother Calvin took more to ranching. “This was Mike’s life...he absolutely loved it. You see pictures of him in the fields everywhere. And then he passed that on to Gene, my husband, who loves what he does” she says, bringing us back to the present day. “You know, they all went away, went to University, and then came back to the Okanagan for the love of what it has to offer.” The farm in George Covert’s day was not much different than it is now. Growing large acreages of tomatoes, onion, potatoes, corn and grapes, while struggling to find enough labour and equipment, and being dependent on the whims of the weather. From the 1970’s until 1989, the year of the grape pullout, Covert Farms was one of the larger vineyards in the Okanagan Valley at 180 acres. The grapes were French Hybrids, Okanagan Riesling and Labruscas, such as “White Diamond”, which, truth be told, made consistently unremarkable “Chateau Okanagan River Channel” wines. In the early 1980’s, George, always a horse lover, decided that it was time to get back to the good ol’ days, and draft horses were reintroduced to farming in the Okanagan valley. Soon the yard was filled with the wholesome sound of plodding hooves and clanking OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 •
wagons, as the teams of Belgians and Percherons hauled loads of cucumbers and onions and tomatoes through the yard. A beautiful sight, the horses served as a reminder of times gone by. Every now and then, they would get tired of standing in the hot sun for hours at a time and take off, galloping through the yard with boxes of tomatoes and cucumbers flying off the wagon behind them. In 1985, with the imminent grape pullout, Mike realized a need for change and so the first high density block of Gala apples were planted. The roaring apple business brought 80 acres of high-production blocks of Galas and Ambrosias, numbering 680 to 3200 trees to the acre making Covert Farms one of the leading apple growers in the Okanagan. “Then there was the big pullout in the 80’s and so the government gave you incentives to replant something else,” Covert explains. “Mike reluctantly chose apples and they were never really happy with it. At first, apples were doing great, and then there was tonnes of planting in Washington and the apple market just plummeted.” Knowing that a change was needed, the apples came out and Covert Farms went again with wine grapes. “Different varieties, not the old varieties that had been planted in the past,” Covert notes. “And so, it’s almost kind of come full circle.” But the decision to plant wine grapes was more practical than symbolic. “We had a lot of people were really reluctant to support us with it, thinking that the whole valley was going to wine grapes, and there’s not going to be any vegetables or any fruit left,” Covert says. “But you can’t insure ground crops like you can wine grapes. You kind of have to spread yourself around in different areas - so if you do have some devastation throughout the year, you’re covered for it. There’s better insurance that you can get for the wine grapes. If something goes wrong, you’re going to be okay and you can replant the next year.” In 1996, at the age of 86, George Covert passed away, leaving his son Michael and daughter in-law Diana to run the farm. Mike’s son, Gene, was also becoming involved with the farm, and so a new father and son duo was evolving. www.oksun.ca
In 2002 Gene’s wife Shelly had the old draft-horse barn converted into “Pancho’s Country Market,” which is now the Farm’s dedicated retail outlet. There, great produce as well as fresh baked pies and muffins are offered, along with light breakfast, lunch and gourmet coffees. The market is characterized by a charming and relaxing setting to enjoy a summer afternoon, such as today - now that the light rain has lapsed into sunshine.
Tomato Festival Inspired by good food and fun, Diana and Shelly Covert introduced the first “Festival of the Tomato” as a way of promoting agriculture in the Okanagan Valley and enjoying the finer things in life. This is Covert Farms’ seventh annual festival, although they haven’t held it for the past three years. “We took a break from it, so we’re bringing it back this year, with a bit of a different flavour,” says Covert. The reason for the hiatus had partly to do with the decision to go completely organic, the costs of which necessitated a cut in production. “We cut down our production to sell to more local markets, rather than the big grocery stores, so we had less tomatoes to play with out in the field. We just didn’t have enough to put on the festival,” Covert explains. “This year, we’re going to do the tomato games with the kids and not so much the adults...we’ll have enough tomatoes for the kids to play with.” Seven different tomato games for the kids will be featured, plus four activities in the field. The traditional kids craft tent in the playground will return, as will the tastings by local wineries and micro breweries. “This year we have five different musical acts that will go
Draft horses were reintroduced in the early 1980’s throughout the day,” Covert says. “The main act is Five Alarm Funk, and they’ll be coming on as the main show in the evening.” There will be extended hours this year, from noon until midnight, and free camping with the tickets. Fresh farm food, fresh corn fry, as well as fresh barbequed organic meats will be offered throughout the day, as well as a pancake breakfast the next morning for those who stay overnight. Going organic Always forward-thinking like the line of Coverts before him, Gene moved ahead into organic production in 2006, starting with the U-Pik Market Garden. “We went to organics just because that was a belief that we had ourselves,” Covert explains. “My husband and I always bought organic, and we always thought this is kind of hydroponics in the sand, how could you ever farm this land organically? Well, you know we’re just going to dive into it and see how it goes... because if we just dabble in it a bit, it’ll
Photo Contributed
never happen. So that’s exactly what we did.” It is a requirement that farms be farming organically for three years and checked regularly by an inspector from a certifying body, before becoming certified organic in the fourth year. “The first three years were tough, because you don’t get as much for conventional fruits and vegetables as you do for organic, but you’re farming it organically, so there’s still the added expense or farming it organically,” Shelly explains. “The fourth year, it started to pay and we realized it was going to work.” But the new method of farming has paid off in other ways as well. “We realized that we have this whole symbiosis on the property, and we build these little ecosystems and everything kind of works together to build an equilibrium,” Covert comments. “Whereas before we had a real problem with Sclerotinia, which is a problem in tomatoes, it’s just a breakdown of tomato and it will rot. And we also had white rot in our onions - as soon as we started to go organic and plant the cover crops to feed everything and
OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 •
the nitrogen fixtures in there, it took care of itself.” Covert recalls having to fumigate 20 acres of field with methyl-bromide. “You can’t use it anymore, but you could at that time - that was the last year you could do it. There was a solar blanket overtop of it, so we had a company come from the United States to do this. They injected the soil, put the blanket over top of it and it just cooked for a week or maybe two weeks, and it cured the problem for a little while, and we were able to plant tomatoes and onions back in that land.” She adds, “But it all just came back again.” Since the switch to organic, Covert reports very few problems with sclerotinia in the same field. “And our fusarium which affects your melons is way down from what it was... we’re not spraying for it anymore.” The switch to organic began in 2003 and everything, including the wine grapes, was certified in 2010. Having everything certified comes as a welcome relief to the Coverts. “We started with 10 acres and the next year we thought, that’s going well, so we added some more on to it, and then some more the year after that. But then, in between, anytime you’d go through a field that’s conventionally farmed, or wasn’t certified organic, it had to go through a whole washing system: any tools that you used out in the field, anyone with their boots on out there, any containers that were used, had to be kept completely separate. So it’s been a huge relief now being all certified.” The switch has created some extra work, however. “The amount of paper
10 www.oksun.ca
work is huge. We have an inspector that comes and goes through absolutely everything with us,” Covert notes. “If you dotted your i’s and crossed you t’s and have everything in order in the fields, and all your paperwork in order, you can go through in half a day’s visit.” With the wine industry booming and land being in high demand, Gene and Shelly Covert collaborated with Kirby & Crystal Froese in 2005 to start a small winery. Dunham & Froese Estate Winery is up and running with its first vintage from 2005 on the shelves. With falling apple prices and high demand for quality grape growing land, the Coverts are now converting some of the apple acreage into wine grapes which will be leased to other vineyards. Today, Covert Farms is still one of the leaders in quality fruit and vegetable production in the Okanagan. Though they are a major shipper of fresh field tomatoes, sweet onions, sweet corn, muskmelons and table grapes, the Coverts’ still supply fruit stands, truckers and major wholesalers in western Canada, as well as continue the tradition of offering the freshest produce to the retail public. The Coverts’ goal is to continue providing the highest quality of fruits and vegetables to the public, and to promote and support a healthy community and agro- tourism in the South Okanagan. The Coverts remain creative when it comes to moving laterally from farming. “We’re putting in an almost four acre corn maze,” Covert says. “We’ve already planted the corn, but because it’s been such a cool spring, it’s not going to be ready until probably the first
or second week of August.” A 40 X 60 jumping pillow, which is like a giant trampoline filled with air, will also be added. “We’re doing duck races, with the old-style water pumps, ten of those with rubber ducks,” Covert lights up, “and a big spider web apparatus, which is a climbing apparatus.” As a sponsor, Radio station Sun-FM will have their logo next to the Covert Farms logo put into the corn maze itself. Part of the proceeds from the corn maze, the kids’ area and the Tomato Festival will go to the South Okanagan Children’s Charity. As if she doesn’t have enough to manage, Covert discusses the new Young Organic Farmers Summer Camp, which begins this year. David Friend, of the University of Victoria, has experience with these camps, and is coming to help host the Coverts’ camp. “...My background is in elementary education, so it fits perfectly with me, I’m really excited to be a part of it with him,” says Covert. “My motherin-law is also an artist, so she’s going to bring an art component to it.” As Covert explains, the kids will go out to the field and talk about composting, do some planting and then see what the plants look like already starting to grow, followed by harvesting. “At the end of the camp, we’ll have a big feast,” she says. “At the very end of the summer when both camps have gone through, we’ll have a cookbook for the kids, and we’ll put it on sale here and the proceeds from that will go either to the Children’s Charity or to fund the program again next year. We’ll ask the kids where they would like the rest of the money
to go.” Moving forward “We’re looking at getting certified for biodynamics,” Covert says. “It’s kind of like taking organics one step further.” “With biodynamics, you’re building ecosystems and doing a lot with companion planting; you do biodynamic preparations and you’ll harvest depending on where the moon is situated.” Covert likens biodynamics to fishing with the tides. “It’s not as hoaky as it sounds,” she smiles. “It isn’t a new thing - I think it just kind of got lost towards the 1960’s when we were into our chemical evolution, thinking that we should kill everything and be in control of everything that’s out there.” The process expands upon the symbiotic relationships that Covert discussed, “It’s interesting. We plant blackberries where we’ve got our grapes because they attract parasitic wasps, and parasitic wasps are a beneficial insect so they help with the leaf hoppers, and you let the ladybugs go, and they go from whatever crop.” She adds, “ We’ve let some go into where our ground crops are and once they finish feeding in there, they’ll go on to the peaches and once they finish feeding there, they’ll head towards the grapes, so they just go where the food is.” Covert’s enthusiasm is readily apparent. “It’s been going on for hundreds of years - farming that way,” she says, once again turning to the past to be able to look into the future.
George Covert (above) amongst the beans in 1979, Calvin plants Apples in 1986. Photos contributed.
BE THERE! WHAT: 250.495.3352
Festival of the Tomato
WHEN: Saturday, August 20 WHERE: Covert Farms INFO:
www.covertfarms.ca
OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 11
Calling OutOsoyoos Aroundis still The World... after 25 years,
T
his year marks the 25th anniversary of the Osoyoos Home Hardware Street Dances. We caught up with store owner and Street Dance coordinator Frances Sologuk to find out what gave (and gives) her the inspiration to throw the famous parties.
OS: Take us back 25 years: Where did the idea come from and how did the first Osoyoos Home Hardware Street Dance come about? FS: So here we are a quarter of century later…….. Street Dances began as a promotion for the store. We were having a sidewalk sale and it was so quiet that I remember running into the store to grab a “cassette” deck so that there would be music. Once the children starting dancing, we thought we would reward them with a few prizes….so we ran back into the store to get a few prizes. I remember vividly grabbing beanie babies which at the time were brand new to the market…and hadn’t quite caught on yet….so we gave them all away. A couple of years later 12 www.oksun.ca
those same beanie babies…which were quickly becoming a collectors item were selling for thousands of dollars. Having seen how much fun everyone was having, we decided to have a Street Dance the following year. I have vivid memories of a Street Dance from my hometown in Northern Ontario, but what I remembered was being on the outside looking in because there was alcohol and no children were allowed. We wanted to have a Family dance…so the tradition began. OS: Was it a huge success right away, or did it take time to build the crowds we see today? FS: Street Dances were very small at the beginning….no stage, no sound
system, just cassette tapes and a table. About a hundred or so would turn out to dance on the street. Street Dances have always been held on the same street beside the store. Each year the dances would get a bit bigger, so about the 3rd year, we used Jim Liebels farm truck as our stage, and had Al Davis from the radio station bring his sound system. After the second year of dances, we realized that a great tradition was in its infancy and we gave up trying to have a sidewalk sale. We wanted to create a community event that everyone could enjoy. As the dances grew Cliff Snider built us a small stage on wheels that we used for the dances. It was at that time that we started holding them twice
a summer, because so many people were disappointed that they were not around when the dance was being held. So we have been having dances in July and August for the past 15 years. OS: It’s no secret that it takes a lot of work and time and energy to put the event on. What motivates you to keep doing it after 25 years? FS: It takes a great deal of work and without the hard work that my staff put into this event, they would not be possible. The amazing support of other businesses to ensure that there are prizes has been fantastic and the result is thats Street Dances are a community affair. The rewards far outweigh the work involved….when you see a Grandparent dancing with their grandchild and the grandchild says… ”Wow! Grams I didn’t know you could move like that” …..that in itself is the greatest compliment. We have people calling all year wondering when the dates for the Street Dances are…..they plan their holidays around them or the locals arrange family visits of reunions around them. We are extremely proud of the support from the community in helping us keep these dances “good old-fashioned fun” . As you mentioned below we receive many comments about the memories that these dances have created, and we now have the kids of those first street dances bring their kids to this event……”you know you are old when”…....the funny thing about all this is that we are still playing some of the songs that we played when the dances started 25 years ago. To see hundreds of people singing “That’s Amore” by Dean Martin is quite the spectacle.
community events. Those first street dances raised enough money to Begin the Walkway Project……..the beautiful gazebo on the walkway, was constructed and erected with Street Dance money and the Walkway Project soon followed. Street Dances have raised thousands for the community. The Walkway, Murals, Museum, Cancer, Special Olympics are just a few of the beneficiaries. The generous donations of the many businesses is what makes this all possible……the costs with putting on a Street Dance today is quite enormous…..we need to rent a stage and of course, we need to have a good sound system……all of which adds up to over $1000.00 per dance. Without the support of the community, they just wouldn’t happen. A special Thank You to Tom Shields and my amazing staff, who have been there since the beginning. A special Thanks to the Town of Osoyoos for their support in allowing us to have this event. OS: In 2007, a young man had thanked you for the putting on the street dances: He and his mother had won the Jive Competition some years prior, and his mother had since passed on. He told you that, because of you, he had the memory of dancing with his mother. The street dance creates those kinds
of memories for people. Can you comment on that, and do you have any memories of your own that stick out? FS: You mentioned just one of the many touching moments that we have had when a young man made sure just how important a Street Dance was to him after he lost his mother to cancer…..this is just a sample of the feedback that we receive…..we just lost a wonderful man by the name of Jim, who never missed a street dance and was always there in his scooter dancing up a storm. Street Dances have truly become a summer tradition in this community for locals and visitors alike. 25 years is quite an accomplishment and Osoyoos Home Hardware would like to Thank everyone that has helped support us these past 25 years.
BE THERE! WHAT: Osoyoos Home Hardware Street Dances
WHEN: Friday, July 22nd & Friday, August 12th
WHERE: Osoyoos Home Hardware
OS: Traditionally there have been 50/50 draws and other fund-raising activities that take place at the dance, with proceeds going to various charities. Are there plans to continue that this year and if so, which charities are you involving? FS: When we realized we had a crowd, we wanted to do something that would give back to the community. We started selling 50/50 tickets and selling glow lights to help raise money for OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 13
Medici’s Gelateria
European-style charm and unique church setting
Photo: Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug
By Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug Although it has stood empty since 2003, the old Catholic Church in Oliver took on a new life several years ago when local resident Esther Brown turned it into an oasis of artwork and handicrafts in the form of Handworks Gallery. It was then empty again until one year ago when Medici’s Gelateria and Coffee House was opened. With her German background and penchant for cooking, Silvia Badger had often thought about starting her own European-style gelateria. When she lost her job at the local newspaper after 18 years, Badger decided it was time to go forward with her dream. 14 www.oksun.ca
With the Community Futures program and her “retired” husband David supporting her new endeavour, Sylvia has just passed the one year mark of running Medici’s. Badger explains that it’s “a European lifestyle where you relax a bit, take an hour, and come with a friend and enjoy a coffee and munch on a gelato creation of some sort or piece of cake.” She adds,” It’s such a European tradition, and I’m really trying to bring that in here, you know, instead of the fast food, just take it, and run.” With everything homemade, from Italian gelato and baked goods to soups and
light lunches, Badger and her husband David seem to have found their niche. Badger makes 40 or so flavours of gelato, including some of her own creations. “I love it, I love making gelato. I really do. It’s like cooking,” she says. “I grew up with it... .” The hard working couple have interior decorated the gelateria in keeping with the church’s quaint architectural features, which gives a unique experience for those who visit. Two of the church’s towers still rise from the front facade, and in the main “sanctuary,” interspersed with the modern coffee tables and chairs are the original church
wooden pews serving as benches to sit on. The feeling of a church is also accentuated by the wooden slate floors, pointed windows and high wooden gable roof. In pleasant contrast, the newly pastel painted walls show a European flair bearing delightful colourful Venetian masks from Italy, and artsy touches such as the “travel corner” with vintage-style travel posters. Other walls feature paintings and photo montages by local artists and the ‘Wall of Fame’ photographs of customers and musicians who have performed there. What was once the stage for church services, has become a stage for evening concerts, against a large backdrop of a picturesque mural scene of Northern Italy. Badger explains that “we want to encourage music and give people something to do.” As well as encouraging local acts to perform, there have also been more widely known names such as Juno Award winner and longtime BC singer Shari Ullrich. Silvia and David support the local community by hiring local students, and hosting fundraisers for charities and local organizations such as Desert Sun Counselling. She notes that “this year we’re actually going to give a scholarship, a bursary, for one of our kids who works here.”
Much like some of the events that took place during the building’s former existence as a church, Medici’s also hosts events such as weddings and even funerals on occasion. As Badger notes, “What we tried to do, is we tried to make it warm, and comfortable and welcoming and I think we’ve achieved that.”
The old Catholic church across from the post office in Oliver has been transformed into a pleasant European-style gelateria and cafe.
Photo: Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug
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Box 177 Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R0 OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 15
Look Good on the Beach
GOLF TIPS
By Derek Highley
E
very week you will hear a commentator during a PGA Tour event say that players would rather have their ball end up in a bunker as opposed to the rough, a foreign thought for most of us. The skill level that these professionals display in playing bunker shots is incredible. While I can’t guarantee that the following tip will have you getting out of bunkers like Ernie Els I can at least say that these keys will put you on the road to improvement. Good bunker technique boils down to
four keys: 1. Get Good Footing 2. Grip Down an Inch on the Club 3. Open Your Stance 4. Don’t Keep Your Eye on the Ball 1. Get Good Footing: Once you have taken your stance in the bunker, shuffle your feet a bit so that you dig down a bit into the sand. By grinding your feet firmly into the sand you’ll get a solid, secure base that will help you maintain your bal-
ance and decrease the chances of you slipping during your swing. Maintaining a stable base is a key for becoming a better bunker player. The less lower body movement you have the better, this allows you to become more consistent with your clubs entry point into the sand. 2. Grip Down an Inch on the Club: By gripping down on the club you essentially make it shorter, you want to do this to help offset the fact that you’ve ground your feet into the sand of the bunker, thus bringing your hands closer to the ball. If you don’t shorten your grip, you’ll tend to dig the club too deeply and hit too far behind the ball, taking too much sand. 3. Open Your Stance: Set up with your feet, knees, hips and shoulders pointing left of your target (for a right handed player). Being open to your target will help you make an out-to-in swing and will facilitate a steep upward takeaway and downward impact that are vital for playing most green side bunker shots. You also want to open the face of your club to make use of the club’s “bounce”. As a check point to know if you have the clubface open enough, try to set the clubface open so that the grooves are facing the flagstick. 4. Don’t Keep Your Eye on the Ball: This goes against traditional thinking on most shots but when in the bunker focus instead on a point about an inch or so behind the ball. That is where you want to make impact. A consistent impact point is vital to hitting good bunker shots. To practice getting a consistent entry point into the sand, draw a line the length of a practice bunker and without using any balls, move down the line taking swings as you go and see how often you can get your club to enter the sand exactly on the line. If you have trouble hitting the line then you will certainly have trouble hitting good bunker shots.
16 www.oksun.ca
Shopping Should Be Outlawed By B. H. Bates
S
hopping is like any other ruthless, repulsive, destructive habit. And furthermore, I think it should be regulated and policed. Anyone caught with more than they need in their shopping carts should face the fact that they may be a shopo-holic! As you may have already surmised - I’m the poor husband of an admitted binge shopper. My misfortunate wife can’t pass up a deal, no more than an alcoholic can say no to a swig of mouthwash. A sign that proclaims 50 percent off - may just as well read: FREE MONEY! Much to my wife’s dismay; here’s a story that I like to tell to other husbands about my wife’s need for speed in the aisle-ways and buy-ways of stores everywhere. I’ll probably be in the doghouse for this story; but what the hell, it just may help another person with their addiction. It was many moons ago in a mall far, far away. The legend goes that there was this mighty shopper who could hunt down and slash the best prices. She could smell a deal from across the food court. Store owners clambered for her attention with sales, discounts and bargain bins. She was the reason they created the sacred day of: Dollar forty-nine day, Tuesday. I’m only kidding her of course. But the truth is every Saturday without fail
my lady love would head to the local shopping center. Then one weekend she felt a little under the weather and decided not to hit the tills for her thrills - that’s when the phone rang. “Can you get that?”, she called to me. “Hello”, I said, then the other person stuttered, “Oh, ah; excuse me, wrong number.” Then they hung up ... but I didn’t. Holding the dead phone I pretended to listen intently; followed by the occasional, “yes, yes, I got it.” And with every passing second my wife’s curiosity grew and grew. “Who is it? Who’s on the phone?” I finally said, “Yes I’ll tell her.” “What? Tell me what?”, she exclaimed. And with a serious look on my face I told her: “It’s Wal-mart, they’re wondering where the hell you’re at.” Now I know I’m going to catch it from every woman who reads between these lines. But most men just don’t get the exhilaration women seem to get from shopping, browsing and wondering aimlessly for hours at a time. I know for myself, I could walk into a store and pick up a loaf of bread, pay for it, drive home and toast it before most women could even get their shopping cart into the bakery aisle. As a younger man I used to travel a lot and I don’t even have a t-shirt that says ‘been thar.’ But a woman will go to some exotic place with majestic breath taking, one of a kind scenery and where do you think they’ll wind
up? On the 24th day of December I like to go to the malls just to watch men scramble from one counter to another. They’ll grab something look at it and you can tell that they’re trying to match it with someone who’s on their list. A complete look of panic, stress and exasperation is written all over their faces - it’s like watching a fuse burning down to the moment just before it enters the bomb! As much as I dislike the chore of shopping; I like clean new clothes, enjoy fresh food and appreciate pillowy softness in the bathroom. And as I look around my home I realize how lucky I am to have a shopper-spouse. In these tough economic times every dollar counts. And just like the food chain in the wild kingdom; shoppers are an essential link in the evolution of business. If a product doesn’t sell, the company goes out of business, and the employees will lose their jobs. If they don’t have a job they can’t afford to shop and so goes the wheel of fortune. Alcoholics can attend AA meetings, drug users have rehabilitation centers even crazy people have safe padded institutes. If a man gets too drunk in a bar they’ll tell him that he’s had enough to drink, and then they’ll ask him to leave. So why isn’t there a shop-therapist or burly buying-bouncer at every mall?
OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 17
End of the track at Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad By Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug The train has finally reached the end of the track at the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad. Over the past 10 years, the miniature world class exhibit has been added to section by painstaking section, and it is now Canada’s biggest little European Railroad, with more than 30 computer controlled Marklin trains running through the minutely and delightfully detailed European-style landscape and towns. It encompasses 4,000 square feet, with over 1,600 houses and 15,000 hand-painted little people. Owners Poul and Ulla Pedersen and their daughter Lotte Mendes have worked tirelessly as a family over the years, and enjoyed every minute of their fantasyland creation. In the new and final train section, Poul points out the myriad of scenes includ-
Photo: Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug Poul Pedersen of Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad
A visitor views the final section of the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad. ...positive, upbeat stories from the South Okanagan
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Photo: Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug
ing a corn field maze with miniature model figures, a monastery with monks up in nearby mtns., a tunnel mine with workers with head lamps, a miniature replica of the first steam engine Mercedes made in 1882, and the much chuckled about nude beach, complete with miniature, ahem, figures. Poul says no complaints thus far about the beach, but he admits there have been a few minor complaints about the little sex shop nearby. The scenes seemingly go on and on, with a forest fire, drive-in movie theatre, and just about everything that one can think of. Not only do trains traverse the mountains and wind their way through the villages and cities, but there is a unique car
system running on some roads. But now the exhibit has reached the stage that there is nowhere else to go spacewise, and with the end of the train track finally reached, Poul feels a bit melancholy. “I haven’t got used to it yet,” he says wistfully. “Now we’re starting on the old section and making it new,” says daughter Lotte, who does all of the landscaping, while Poul does the track, electronics, computers and They will add new glass, tinting, a fresh little touches like the new ‘flowing’ fountain, and repaint displays that have faded over the years. His wife Lotte looks after the extensive train shop downstairs and with steady hand paints all of the little people who inhab-
it the towns and villages in the exhibit. There is a new dvd of their miniature railroad available for purchase in the gift shop and online at their website www.osoyoosrailroad.com Visitors are often impressed and surprised at the attention to detail and the sheer effort put into the exhibit. “It’s just too much detail to absorb. It’s just fantastic,” says one visitor, while another one says, “It’s amazing. It’s just absolutely amazing, isn’t it?” Periodically, Poul dims the lights for a nighttime view of the towns and villages all lit up colourfully with cheery scenes such as the fairgrounds, complete with lit up ferris wheel turning endlessly around in this little slice of heaven.
Photo: Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 19
Sun Awareness
By Meghan Highley, BSc, Rph
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We are lucky to live in one of the sunniest parts of the country here in the South Okanagan. But with temperatures at times reaching well over 30 degrees C, there is a lot to know about sun safety to make your summer more comfortable. Although it is recommended that Canadians wear a sunscreen year round with an SPF of 15, it is even more important to stick to this practice during the summer months. Not only do most of us spend more time outdoors in the summer, but UVB rays are much stronger at this time. UVA rays are present year round and are responsible for increasing the risk of skin cancers, premature skin aging, photosensitivity reactions and cataracts and retinal damage; whereas UVB rays are what cause skin to burn (think “B” for “burn”). This is why it is best to choose a sunscreen offering both UVA and UVB protection. The SPF rating indicates the degree of protection primarily from UVB radiation. The SPF will delay the sunburn, but will not prevent a sunburn from eventually occurring. It is key to reapply every 30-60 minutes (more frequently after heavy perspiring or swimming), because after 3 hours in the sun exposed skin is going to burn no matter what. This is why it is best to limit exposure when the sun is the strongest between 10AM and three pm daily. Products that advertise being “waterresistant” allow for an additional protection up to a maximum of 40 minutes after being in the water, whereas products claiming to be “waterproof” afford protection for up to 80 minutes after going in the water. A product with an SPF of 15 blocks out 93% of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 30 will block out 97% of UVB rays. Therefore, the additional protection from a product with an SPF beyond 30 is considered negligible. Because any product with an SPF rating is blocking the UVB rays, it is important to find a product that also gives UVA protection. Look for products containing Avobenzone, Parsol 1789, and Mexoryl SX - these specifically block UVA rays. Sun blocks are different from sunscreens. They offer a full range of UVA and UVB coverage by reflecting and scattering 99% of all UV spectrum rays. Although they have a tendency to be less cosmetically appealing (they do not rub in easily), certain formulations containing micronized particles of titanium dioxide or Zinc Oxide are easier to apply. Children under the age of six months cannot use chemical sunscreens. Keep them well covered and use only products with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide (many diaper rash creams will double as sun block). Sunscreen should be applied liberally: use a lot and reapply frequently. If you still get a sunburn, here is what you need to know: There are two phases to a sunburn: an initial inflammatory phase (skin is red and tender) and then a delayed repair phase. The treatment during that first inflammatory phase is to take oral acetaminophen or ibuprofen and to apply cool compresses. For the repair phase you should apply a moisturizing cream. Evidence has shown that creams containing cocoa butter and shea butter are best to promote burn healing. Aloe is often used because it is soothing and is thought to have healing properties. Although clinical evidence is lacking to support its recommendation, it is still a popular choice. If you are choosing aloe, it is best to avoid the green coloured products as the green dye can be irritating to damaged skin. Many aloe gels also contain alcohol - be sure to choose one without alcohol: not only can it irritate damaged skin, it will further dry the skin out. Products available containing local anesthetics in aerosol cans can also be further irritating to damaged skin. Additionally, many medications can cause an increase in photosensitivity, please drop by and talk to one of the pharmacists at Skaha pharmacy. We would be happy to go over your medications with you, including which ones you will need to take extra caution with when in the sun.
3030 Skaha Lake Rd Penticton, BC V2A 7H2 (250) 493-8155
Osoyoos Celebrity Wine Festival brings in $70,000 for the United Way By Andrea Dujardin-Flexhaug Wine tasting, mingling with celebrities and entertainment by Canadian country singing sensation George Canyon, it was all a spectacular mix at the third annual Osoyoos Celebrity Wine Festival in June. And it was for a good cause, with the wine auction raising $70,000 for the United Way, which benefits children in the South Okanagan Similkameen. “We were absolutely thrilled with the way the festival turned out this year,” enthuses Glenn Fawcett, co-founder and president of Black Hills Estate Winery. “The one thing that really stands out for me is the level of decor, and the creative touches of the events,that added a hip, world-class feel to the whole festival.” “As Founders we feel very strongly about supporting children,” says Fawcett, “and we know that this is a sentiment shared by the numerous celebrities who volunteer their time to be part of the Festival.” South Okanagan Similkameen United Way chair Brad Haugli says they want to give a very special thanks to the festival for their support. “We’re very pleased that the United Way is the charity of choice,” he says. The United Way works with local service providers and United Way’s Success By 6 program to improve access to childhood learning, and help kids do well at school. He also notes, “We help provide stability and opportunity for the most vulnerable children, and give
them a chance at better lives.” “It is our intention that this relationship will remain,” says Fawcett, “and the United Way will become the beneficiary charity for many years to come.” Several highlights of this year’s festival included a spontaneous jam session by Canyon along with award-winning Chilean-Canadian guitarist Oscar Lopez, the unique Vinos short film competition, and the comical Sabre Soiree. For Canyon, who hails from
southern Alberta, this was his first time in Osoyoos, and he says, “...My wife and I are blown away, absolutely blown away. The people, the view, the weather, let’s just say it’s a little piece of heaven for sure.” A total of 17 local wineries, six Chefs/ Restaurants, two tourism agencies (Destination Osoyoos and TOTA), 17 celebrities and four hotels took part in the entertainment filled event covered by 46 attending media.
Now Available at
OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 21
Maple Smoked Ribs
ey
JU C D W O Y’S ith R Ju N dy E H R ar v
Frances of Osoyoos Home Hardware has the most amazing BBQ World. If you can’ t find what you are looking for there ask or you’ll have a long and frustrating search. Check it out……. she has sauces from around the world. She carries Broil Kings, Webers, Traegers, Weber Q’s, and the latest in electric BBQ’s by Dimplex and more…..!!!
In the early 1980s, a girlfriend and I were planning on doing a cookbook on Vancouver restaurants. We approached Umberto for a recipe. He said “me - give a recipe to the masses who take a steak straight out of the fridge and cover it in salt and plop it into a searing hot pan and wonder why it comes out tough…..?????” Make sure that you take whatever you plan to barbecue out of the fridge at least a half hour ahead to take the chill off Let your meat relax at least a half hour after removing from the heat after cooking If you burn your mouth with insanely hot sauces, drinking water will do no good because capsicum is not soluble in water. Drink milk, eat yogurt, ice cream or even eat lettuce but do not drink water This is a great recipe for Maple Smoked Ribs 2 – 3 pounds pork side ribs 3 tbsp. frozen orange juice concentrate 3 tbsp. ketchup 2 tbsp. soy sauce 1 tbsp. worcestershire sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tbsp. toasted sesame seeds
1 cup maple syrup
1 tbsp. dijon mustard 1 tsp. curry powder 2 green onions, minced
Soak maple planks in sink or clean bucket filled with water for at least 1 hr. (this can be done during first stage of cooking the ribs). Light one side of your barbecue and preheat until temperature gauge shows – 350 F (175 C). Place ribs meat side up in a 9 x 13 roasting pan. Cover pan tightly with foil and place on the unlit side of your bbq. Bake for 1 1/4 hours. This step can also be done in the oven. In a saucepan over medium heat on the stove or on the sideburner of the bbq combine first 6 ingredients. Stir in next 3 ingredients. Simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove ribs from roasting pan, and baste completely meat side and bone side with still warm sauce. Retain ½ of sauce for additional basting. Place ribs on soaked maple planks bone side down. Put the planks with ribs on them on one side of the bbq with low heat setting directly underneath them. Turn the other side of the bbq to high and close the lid. Keep temperature around 350. Plank should begin to smoke within a few minutes, and produce a sweet fragrant smoke in your bbq. Adjust the amount of smoke you would like to add by increasing/decreasing direct heat underneath the planks, and opening/closing the lid. Do not allow planks to catch fire. Allow ribs to cook on the planks for 25 minutes. Use remaining sauce to baste ribs several times throughout cooking. Remove planks with ribs on them from the grill and place the planks directly on a plate or tray for serving. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. I’m asked to bring my Strawberry Spinach Salad to most bbq’s. Covert Farms fresh strawberries give the best flavor as they are organic and wonderful. Don’t pick late – you might get locked in. Clean package of spinach and strawberries – dry well and slice strawberries Roast 1 cup of slivered or flaked almond in a 325 oven for 15 minutes until golden Cool Combine ½ cup white sugar with juice and zest of 2 lemons and stir until dissolved Coddle egg yolks by immersing 2 eggs in boiling water for 30 seconds and then into cold water Add yolks to sugar/lemon mixture (beat till creamy) and then add ¾ cup light salad oil (canola will work) Dress the spinach and toss with the strawberries and almonds Serve immediately. Until the next time – happy cooking!!! 22 www.oksun.ca
PROVINCE SUPPORTS GROWERS’ INNOVATION The Province of British Columbia has approved regulatory changes that support a renewed five-year mandate for British Columbia fruit growers to promote one of our premium local apples. The regulatory change allows Ambrosia growers to continue collecting a levy to fund promotion, research and extension projects to assist orchardists in their efforts to further build the crop, which creates new jobs and revenue for B.C.’s farm families. The New Tree Fruit Varieties Development Council began in 2002 with a mandate to promote and develop new apple varieties and charge a levy on apple sales. Changes approved by government will extend the mandate to June 30, 2016. A flagship variety for the industry, Ambrosia growers are now producing over 400,000 cartons from 800 acres in production. Discovered in the Mennell orchard in Cawston, B.C., Ambrosia is protected from sales into Canada of the U.S. version and propagation is prohibited without the consent of the
Okanagan Plant Improvement Company in Summerland, B.C. “The Ambrosia apple has consistently gained in popularity – proof positive that innovation leads to economic gain,” said Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater. “Helping agricultural entrepreneurs doesn’t just result in better fruit, but prosperity.” New Tree Fruit Varieties Development Council Chair Bruce Currie is pleased with the regulatory changes. “I would like to thank the Minister for his support and also the Ambrosia growers who supported the renewed mandate,” he said. “This is great news because the ambrosia apple is only known by 46% of consumers in western Canada as contrasted to 90% for more traditional varieties such as Red Delicious and MacIntosh. Ambrosia is an excellent variety and has a very enthusiastic consumer following.” Since 2001, the Province has invested over $33 million in replant and grafting programs from which the vast majority of Ambrosia plantings were funded.
8h_Wd Ce[d
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CHANGES TO CURBSIDE COLLECTION AS OF JULY 1ST Major changes to Curbside Garbage and Recycling collection programs are coming in July. Residents in Oliver and Osoyoos, will see no changes to their blue bag recycling program except for collection of recycling and yard waste being on alternating weeks. The Town of Osoyoos has already started these alternating week collections and the Town of Oliver will start in July. For all RDOS areas, the Towns of Oliver and Osoyoos and the Village of Keremeos blue bag recycling occurs the week of July 4th to 8th with yard waste collected July 11th to 15th on your day of collection. In Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos, residents are asked to not place yard waste in clear plastic bags. Plastic bags are not compostable and must be removed from the process before the yard waste can be chipped. Instead residents can use compostable kraft paper yard waste bags or use clearly marked reusable containers. Reusable containers can be garbage cans with ‘yard waste’ clearly marked on them. Large stickers marked ‘yard waste’ are being sent to homes and residents can pick up extras from their local municipal office. BFI Canada Facility Manager, Roy Aitken, recommends residents choose their reusable yard waste container carefully to allow for easy collection with little mess. “When you purchase a yard waste container, look for no ridges on the inside,” explains Aitken. “Yard waste gets stuck on the ridges making a mess and leaving yard waste inside your can.” Some rural RDOS areas will change weekly collection days starting in July. Kaleden and Heritage Hills residents will switch from Monday collections to Wednesday collections. This change will allow for Kaleden and Heritage Hills residents to receive
OLIVER 250.498.3448 35633-99th Street
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collections on the same day as other homes in Okanagan Falls and Skaha Estates. The final major change in July is the discontinuation of all glass collection throughout the RDOS. Residents will no longer be able to recycle glass at their curbside but can bring container glass for free to all landfills and the T-2 Market in Oliver. As of June 15th the Osoyoos Bottle Depot and July 1st the J&C Bottle Depot in Penticton will accept container glass for free recycling. Window, mirror, automotive or other non-container glass will not be accepted at these depots. “It is not easy to see a reduction in terms of the items that can be collected from your home,” says Don Hamilton, RDOS Solid Waste Facilities Coordinator. “That being said, the RDOS is one of the last places in BC still collecting glass at the curb. Glass easily breaks causing splinters that can contaminate other recyclables and hurt workers. There are no more glass recyclers in the interior of BC making it expensive to ship. As well we often find some people don’t clean their glass jars making it much more difficult to recycle.” Hamilton states that returnable glass containers like beer bottles are fully recycled when brought to the bottle depot. These bottles are hand sorted to be free from contaminates. Beverage containers, which get returned for deposit, end up being made into wine bottles often used by local wineries. Container glass collected at landfills and participating bottle depots will be crushed and reused locally as road base and land- fill cover. For specific information please contact your local government office or BFI Canada at 250-490-3888. The RDOS Solid Waste Department can be reached at 250-490-4129, e-mail info@rdos.bc.ca or visit www.rdos.bc.ca.
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Study Shows Exercise Is Indeed A Fountain Of Youth By Jorg Mardian It’s been said before, and I’ll repeat it here again – the most effective weapon in fighting off old age may be your nearest gym. A study by McMaster University researchers in Hamilton now re-enforces this notion, showing that the impact of exercise upon longevity has long been underestimated. Though many would have you believe that the proverbial fountain of youth comes in a pill or from an exotic berry from the Amazon, the truth is plain old exercise works better. New research conducted using 3 month old mice (roughly equivalent to 20 years in humans) which were genetically altered to age quickly, found some startling results. The mice were put on a treadmill for 45 minutes, 3 times a week, while others were left to live a sedentary life. After 5 months (the equivalent of 60 human years), the non-active mice were balding, greying, less sociable, less fertile and afflicted by age to the point of being nearly immobile. The active group however had bright healthy coats and acted like young and healthy wild-type mice that didn’t have the genetic mutation. Perhaps most surprising is what the scientists discovered in the mitochondria of the mice. Mitochondria are unique in that they have their own DNA. It’s long been thought that accumulation of mitochondrial DNA mutations over our lifetimes leads to the progressive decline in tissue and organ function that results in aging. However, researchers saw “huge recovery” in age-related damage to practically every tissue they could analyze after exercise. The mice experienced anti-aging benefits in their brains, skin, hair, gonads, kidneys, livers and spleens.
“To see a mouse with grey fur and osteoporosis hunched up in the cage, and then the littermate running around with bright healthy coats and acting energetic, I think that really motivates individuals to say, ‘Wow, this is good for me, not just my muscles, but everything,” said Tarnopolsky, a professor of pediatrics and medicine at McMaster’s Michael DeGroote School of Medicine. So are the results seen in the mice applicable to humans? “Absolutely”, he said. “Others have tried to treat these animals with “exercise pill” drugs and have even tried to reduce their caloric intake, a strategy felt to be the most effective for slowing aging, and these were met with limited success.” In terms of follow-up work, Tarnopolsky said the researchers have already mapped out the specific biochemical and molecular pathways responsible for the protection, and results will be presented in subsequent papers. They are looking at the effects of some of the proteins that come out of the muscle into the blood. “We’re looking at all the different tissues in the human body in a petri dish to see how these different proteins that are being secreted by muscle are having a beneficial effect on all tissues in the body,” he said. In other words, exercise has a very potent systemic effect, and what’s coming out of our muscle is having an effect on all organs in the body, proving through compelling evidence that people who are physically active or exercise regularly have fewer chronic diseases and tend to live longer. So while death is inevitable, exercise truly is the fountain of sustaining youth, health and vigour.
8404 - 97th St Osoyoos 250.495.7237 OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 25
WHAT’S NEW AT BONNIE DOON?
How much valuable time have YOU spent trying
to unravel the mystery of your “Health Challenges”? Discover if the supplements that you are taking are working for you. At Bonnie Doon’s we are introducing some new concepts and products that you may find helpful.
but is available to you now through Bonnie Doon Health Supplies in Osoyoos.
The ZYTO COMPASS is a computer generated revolutionary new technology that prioritizes your body’s preferences for specific nutritional supplements. This information helps you make better decisions about which ones to purchase and use.
‘I’M AMAZED”. As a Natural Health Consultant with a Masters of Science Degree in Nutrition and over 30 years of experience I can honestly say that after only three weeks on 3 oz. of Vemma a day I am sleeping deeper and waking more refreshed and alert than I ever have.
ZYTO’S technology measures your body’s response to a specific library of nutritional products, asking your body which it prefers; this is called biocommunication. When you place your hand on the hand cradle, stimuli are sent to the body representing each individual product. The softwear then records your responses whether positive or negative. The compass then generates a report showing which products your body prefers, guiding you toward better health. FEATURE PRODUCT VEMMA……The most complete liquid nutrition program the world has ever seen!!! Studies measured the bioavailability of Vemma, reporting an impressive 98% absorption rate within 2 hrs of consumption. Now that’s powerful, because according to the Physician’s Desk Reference (PDR),ONLY 10 TO 20% of tablets are absorbed. Vemma is a powerful antioxidant formula, and it tastes great! With all the ultra-premium ingredients, this formula is designed to touch every organ, every system, and every gland in your body, this clinically proven formula, with innovative delivery systems makes Vemma like no other supplement. It is not typically found in stores
26 www.oksun.ca
TESTIMONIAL:
ten, the problem was that I still wasn’t absorbing traditional vitamin pills despite taking many popular digestive aids. One of the really neat features of Vemma is that it cleans out the pipes – all of them, trust me. The mangosteen antioxidants alone will support heart health and the food-based vitamins, minerals, enzymes and aloe vera makes my entire system very happy. I am very excited about using Vemma and like seeing myself going from dragging around to feeling a vibrancy that puts pep in my step and attitude. My anxiety is a thing of the past and the digestion problem – “what problem?” Thank you Vemma. L. Harlingten, Osoyoos, BC
My personal and professional Health Quest was to solve my anxiety and digestion challenges and to discover a food-based supplement that would fit most people’s taste, budget and lifestyle. I discovered along the way that some of my anxiety had roots in food allergies which contributed to malabsorption syndrome and chronic fatigue. I have consumed thousands of dollars worth of supplements and got mediocre results. There was nothing that would make me really take notice and say ‘hey, this is great stuff – I feel the difference’ – until Vemma. Most of-
TAKE THE VEMMA CHALLENGE, sign in to have a FREE Zyto report done- before- to find your health challenges, use the Vemma at cost only, then have another FREE Zyto report done- after - to see the difference in 90 days. To sign in: call and book with Laara, our new nutritional consultant, Laara brings 30 years experience in the natural health field to Bonnie Doon’s. 250-495-6313. Drop into Bonnie Doon Health Supplies 8515A Main St. for more information on Vemma or The Compass. www.bondoon.vemma.com www. vmastories.com
Bonnie Doon Health Supplies 8515-A Main St Osoyoos, BC
(250) 495-6313
PUZZLE PAGE
Each Sudoku has a solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit, as must every column, and every 3X3 square. Answer at www.oksun.ca
WORDSEARCH Fresh Things at Covert Farms
TOMATOES PEPPERS CUCUMBERS ARTICHOKES BASIL
BLUEBERRIES EGGPLANT PEACHES STRAWBERRIES TOMATILLOS ZUCCHINI
OKANAGAN SUN • July 2011 • 27
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