Celebrating 30 Years

Writing well means never having to say, ‘I guess you had to be there.’”

Jef Mallet

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

Feature: Okanagan POTibilities

Feature: Okanagan POTibilities

Cultivating the cannabis industry The business of legalizing marijuana is creating a buzz in the Okanagan. Whether you call it pot, weed or Mary Jane, cannabis becomes legal across Canada on July 1, 2018, when the federal government officially enacts Bill C-45. The...

Lake Country calls out to artists

Lake Country calls out to artists

The Lake Country Art Gallery is opening a call for submissions for their upcoming exhibit: Who are we? A visual narrative of our community. The exhibition will run March 1 to April 1. The call is open to everyone of all ages. Individual and collaborative works...

Next Gen: Caring kids

Next Gen: Caring kids

100 Kids Who Care Kelowna knows that choosing where your money goes can go a long way towards creating good communities. At their latest event, the kids write inspirational chalk art messages of volunteering and giving back along the promenade...

Next Gen: Caring kids

Next Gen: Caring kids

100 Kids Who Care Kelowna knows that choosing where your money goes can go a long way towards creating good communities. At their latest event, the kids write inspirational chalk art messages of volunteering and giving back along the promenade...

Farmers’ Market

Farmers’ Market

Open rain or shine, Valley farmers’ markets are growing to meet the demand of Okanaganites looking for local, farm fresh produce from fruits and veggies to artisan cheeses, breads and more.

Call of the Drums

Call of the Drums

Piece by piece Okanagan Indian Band member William (Bill) James Robins, carefully lifts from a blue satchel and proudly displays his grass dance regalia. Headband, belt, wristbands and drop—picture a long, narrow scarf worn draped around the neck—all decorated with colourful appliqué. Furry ankle bands and a pair of worn moccasins add to the growing pile on the desk.

Date Rape Drugs

In the mid-1990s, the media began to report what appeared to be a growing trend: drug facilitated sexual assault, and in 1997 a young woman named AJ Januszczak put a human face on the story. Going public in the newspapers and on a national television talk show, she described exactly how a man drugged her while she was playing pool with her sister and her friends, then took her out to the parking lot where he and one of his friends raped her.