Writing well means never having to say, ‘I guess you had to be there.’”
The great part about anniversaries is taking time to reflect. Delving into our magazine archives, we once again came face to face with the passionate people who strengthen our communities and the creative artists who fill the Valley with art, song and laughter. As we flipped through the pages, funky retro ads popped out and the colourful fabric of Okanagan life warmed us, captured in vivid photography and heartfelt words. Printed on the pages were couples saying “I do,” athletes capturing Olympic gold and volunteers opening their hearts. We also stirred up some murders, ghosts and lake monsters. Yes, Ogopogo has made his appearances many times over. Our writers tackled many issues that parents, students and seniors have faced over these 30 years—some still challenging us today. Thanks to all who have been a part of our journey; you’ll find the full archives online. Read, reflect and revel in the Okanagan life. —Editors
Mother’s Day, Unaccompanied
Thirty years ago, my mum put my brother and I on a plane in Vancouver to meet my father in Australia, trusting us to the care of flight attendants. The airline staff gave us colouring books and put stickers on our chests with the initials "U.M." "What does that stand...
Wine Judges in Action
Our Okanagan Life Best of BC Wine Awards 2015 judges combined wide experience and extensive training from all facets of the wine industry. Tracy Gray is the founder and owner of Discover Wines at Orchard Plaza in Kelowna, Gray has worked in the wine industry for 25...
The Tenors Under One Sky Tour Coming to Penticton
The Tenors Under One Sky Tour Saturday, October 3, 2015 Tickets available online at www.valleyfirsttix.com, and in person at the Valley First Box Office (at the SOEC) and Wine Country Visitor Centre or charge by phone 1-877-763-2849 (SOEC.TIX) Tickets (incl. GST)...
Okanagan Men’s Shed sharing their talents
Call them men of purpose. Now they're looking for projects. A group of retired and semi-retired Kelowna men has launched a pilot project called Okanagan Men's Shed -- based on a popular movement that began in Australia -- to put their talents to work on projects large...
Writers’ conference returns to Penticton Apr. 8-10
For the first time in over a decade, Penticton is hosting a full-fledged writers’ conference. “We really enjoyed the ones the Penticton Writers and Publishers hosted years ago for the writing community,” says Dawn Renaud, who works with authors as a freelance editor...
Earn $1,000 to improve your neighbourhood
The application period is open for two City of Kelowna grant programs that help residents build stronger neighbourhoods. “Residents often know just what’s needed to enhance the quality of life in their neighbourhoods,” says Louise Roberts, Manager of Community...
Record-setting March for South Okanagan Events Centre
The new year is off to a busy start at the South Okanagan Events Centre, with a record number of people passing through the buildings' doors within the first two weeks of March. Upwards of 35,000 people visited the facilities during a 17-day stretch. “It’s been...
Writers’ conference returns to Penticton Apr. 8-10
For the first time in over a decade, Penticton is hosting a full-fledged writers’ conference. “We really enjoyed the ones the Penticton Writers and Publishers hosted years ago for the writing community,” says Dawn Renaud, who works with authors as a freelance editor...
Earn $1,000 to improve your neighbourhood
The application period is open for two City of Kelowna grant programs that help residents build stronger neighbourhoods. “Residents often know just what’s needed to enhance the quality of life in their neighbourhoods,” says Louise Roberts, Manager of Community...
Record-setting March for South Okanagan Events Centre
The new year is off to a busy start at the South Okanagan Events Centre, with a record number of people passing through the buildings' doors within the first two weeks of March. Upwards of 35,000 people visited the facilities during a 17-day stretch. “It’s been...


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