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
Yarn Bomb ~ Cool Arts Society
Darn. We’re late again. I race along the walkway to the Rotary Centre for the Arts with my children. Somewhere inside the building a patient friend sits waiting for our coffee date. I’m about to run through the door when something catches my eye—a tree wearing a sweater.
Democracy Reigns Supreme for BOTO
Twice each year for 18 years, readers of Okanagan Life have come together in an exercise celebrating democracy, to vote for their favourite pastimes, businesses and people. It appears the Best of the Okanagan (BOTO) brand is alive and well in the Okanagan—you only...
Cynthia Kereluk ~ Criteraid
Cynthia Kereluk and Paul Rodgers, Summerland’s beauty queen/rock legend couple, lend a helping hand to animals in the Okanagan and around the world. “I love animals and I love my hometown of Summerland,” says Cynthia. Winner of the 1984 Miss Canada title, she later became…
Business Crisis Sparks Team Solidarity and Community Support
Flooring Canada Kelowna’s motto is “With you every step of the way.” For the past year, while the business has been recovering from a crisis, owner Perry Hildebrandt says that their motto took on a new meaning: the community was supporting his company every step of...
Silver Star Mountain Resort Appoints New Managing Director
Silver Star Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ken Derpak as its new Managing Director. Derpak will lead the Silver Star team after serving as President and CEO at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, overseeing hotel and resort operations, golf,...
Two outstanding UBC students receive Governor General Award
Graduate student Melisa Lavallee and undergraduate student Kyle Noftall earn top honour for academic achievements In recognition of achieving the highest grade-point average of all PhD graduates at UBC’s Okanagan campus this year, the 2014 Governor General’s Gold...
Bike Park Expansion at Silver Star Totals Quarter of a Million Dollars
Silver Star Mountain Resort announced today that it is adding 25 km of new cross-country trails this year and more will be added in 2015. The expansion will total $250,000 and will provide mountain bike riders of all abilities with more trail options. Silver Star...
Silver Star Mountain Resort Appoints New Managing Director
Silver Star Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ken Derpak as its new Managing Director. Derpak will lead the Silver Star team after serving as President and CEO at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, overseeing hotel and resort operations, golf,...
Two outstanding UBC students receive Governor General Award
Graduate student Melisa Lavallee and undergraduate student Kyle Noftall earn top honour for academic achievements In recognition of achieving the highest grade-point average of all PhD graduates at UBC’s Okanagan campus this year, the 2014 Governor General’s Gold...
Bike Park Expansion at Silver Star Totals Quarter of a Million Dollars
Silver Star Mountain Resort announced today that it is adding 25 km of new cross-country trails this year and more will be added in 2015. The expansion will total $250,000 and will provide mountain bike riders of all abilities with more trail options. Silver Star...


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