1. travel
2. specialty travel
3. vineyards

Skaha Matters
“Bringing Community Matters To You”
Skaha Matters
Published by Okanagan Matters Publications
www.SkahaMatters.com
5th Annual 5 Course
Valentines Dinner
at the 1912 in Kaleden
Featuring wine pairings from Painted Rock Winery
Saturday, February 14th ~ 6 pm
Volume 7 : Issue 1
January
2015
Your FREE Monthly
Community Newsletter
skahamatters@telus.net
250.490.6951
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a
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or Age
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an Falls
BC L91iq
et, Okanag
0 Main Stre
(OK Food
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e - Hwy 97
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/falls.mar
book.com
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at www.fa
Follow us
Smoking Cheap
“Pack” Deals
Your One Stop Shop for All Your Needs!
Ice Cold Beer & Wine Full Selection of Liquor Unique Variety of Wines
Grocery Items Confectionary Treats Movie Rentals Smittys Live Bait
Reservations Required
250.486.8939
Facebook.com/flamecatering
250.497.5194
Call for
Special
Orders
of
Chester’s
Chicken
Open 9-9 Daily
Stocked with the LARGEST Craft Selection in the South Okanagan!
BIG SALE ~ BELOW BC GOVT PRICING EVERY MONTH!
Page 2
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
New Years Resolutions
By Myleen Mallach, Owner/Publisher of Skaha Matters
New Area “D” East
Transit Service
Starts January 19!
To Route
—
—
11:16
3:51
5:21
7th Ave and Birch
Heritage Hills
6:41
8:05
11:00
3:35
5:05
Eastside at Devon
Cherry Lane
Shopping Centre
(north entrance to
The Bay)
New Years Resolutions ... Do you make them and break them each
year? Do you set yourself up for destined failure? Research shows
that only 10-15% ever follow through on a resolution. Or, do you take
this opportunity to reflect on your life and identify the things around
20 Okanagan Falls
you? What can and should be changed and why would you want to?
Monday to Friday
C1
HH
SE
OA
What is really most important to you? What are your needs versus
your wants? Is there a small change that could be realistic to achieve?
Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Who cares what actual
calendar day that may be? Life is short and you have the choice to
make your life what you want it to be. Be fulfilled, not just satisfied.
20 Penticton
Change starts with a simple change of mind or shift in perspective.
Monday to Friday
OA
SE
HH
C1
Now, I hope that got you thinking ... but back to an actual resolution
Click, Hike & Bike™
here. “I plan to not text or talk on the phone while driving.” Just that
simple decision could save a life. Keeping resolutions simple and
•
meaningful could be the key to success. Happy New Year Everyone!
Transit
6:57
8:21
11:24
3:59
5:29
7:06
8:30
11:33
4:08
5:38
21
21
21
21
21
Transit Tips
Here are some courtesy and safety
tips to keep in mind while travelling
on the bus.
Always
plan to arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early
From Route
7th Ave and Birch
Eastside at Devon
Heritage Hills
Cherry Lane
Shopping Centre
(north entrance to
The Bay)
Try the new transit service for FREE
February 6, 2015. The new service will run
M-F and includes:
21
21
21
21
21
7:20
8:50
11:50
4:27
5:57
7:27
8:57
11:57
4:34
6:04
7:35
9:05
12:05
—
—
7:54
9:24
12:24
4:52
6:22
7:00 pm on Tuesday, January 13th
OP
Peach Cliff
Estates
OK Falls
Community
Centre
OK Falls IGA
Peach Cliff
Estates
7th Ave and Birch
—
8:38
7:12
8:42
7:15
8:45
—
—
7:20
8:50
13
Get Your Event
on the Community Calendar!
Free Listing for Local Non-profit Groups.
Advertise Your Business Event Too!
* Event info is included in this issue.
1
February 2015 Special Events
OK Falls Senior Centre*
Kal-Rec Budget 6
Meeting* 7-9pm at Hall
OK Falls Senior Centre* OK Falls Senior Centre*
5
Jam Session 1pm
New Exercise Classes
Tuesdays 9:30am
OK Falls PAC *
6:30pm School Library
Gentle Yoga *
OK Falls Zen Centre
Mon/Fri 9:30am
Service to Summerland available
on the Summerland Transit System.
Visit www.bctransit.com .
www.rdos.bc.ca
New Year’s Day!
February 6th ~ Last Day for Free BC Transit Service for OK Falls - Free Jan 19 - Feb 6! *
February 7th ~ To Mexico With Love 2015 Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser *
February 9th ~ BC Family Day Holiday
February 14th ~ 5th Annual Valentine’s Dinner at the 1912 with Flambé Catering *
12
use offensive or abusive language on the bus
Service animals that are certified are allowed on
public transit at all times. You may be asked to
produce your Guide Animal Certificate.
View Online at www.SkahaMatters.com ~ Event Reminders on Facebook Page!
11
Plan your trip! Visit:
enter the street in front of or directly behind a
wwstopped
w.bctransit.com
bus – make sure traffic can see you
OA
7:09
8:35
January 2015 Community Calendar
Catholic Mass 11:30am
run after or hit the side of a moving bus
Service Animals
For more information, please contact
Denise Melenka 250-490-4215 or
Tom Siddon 250-809-2548
General Meeting at 1pm
Never
stand in the street or sit on the curb when the
bus approaches
11:35Did
11:38you
11:42know?
11:45
—
11:50
Transit
is available
for
Transit
Routes
Transit Routes
4:08
—
4:11
4:14
4:19
4:22
5:38
—
5:41
5:44
5:49
5:52
and
Schedules
and
Schedules
residents on the west side of Skaha Lake
PLEASE ATTEND
Kaleden & OK Falls
Community Churches 10am
OK Falls United Church &
Anglican Church 9:30am
if you are using a wheelchair, be sure it is equipped
with a lap belt. Not all types of mobility devices
fit on a bus or have the proper securements.
Customers using wheelchairs or scooters can
call 250·492·5602 for a demonstration.
Plan your trip! Visit:
Plan your trip! Visit:
through
the South Okanagan Transit
System.
ww w.bctransit.com
ww w.bctransit.com
Okanagan Falls Seniors Centre
BACK TO SCHOOL
be a good neighbour – yelling or loud music on
the bus can be distracting for the driver and other
passengers
www.bctransit.com.
7th Ave and Birch
OKANAGAN FALLS PARKS PROJECTS
4
hold on while the bus is in motion
allow your children to stand or kneel on the seat
while riding the bus
Plan your trip! Visit: Monday to Friday
ww w.bctransit.com
OA
OP
OS
OK
Regarding
Church Services*
take a seat as soon as possible after boarding
• 5 Loops within OkanaganTransit
Falls.
Trip
Planner
Trip Planner
21 OK Falls Town Local
A SPECIAL COMMUNITY MEETING
Call 250.490.6951 or skahamatters@telus.net
have your correct fare ready before boarding
13
Special Community
Meeting
Re: OK Falls Parks *
2
Blood Donor Clinic *
Penticton Senior Centre
OK Falls Legion #227* Jan 1 / 2 / 29 / 30 1:30-5:30pm
New Year Party 2-8pm
Kaleden Women’s
Weekly Drop-in *
7
Kaleden Church
Wednesdays 1-4pm
8
9
New Exercise Classes
Thursdays 9am
Music & Coffee
Wed/Fri 9-10:30am
Meat Draws Fri/Sat 5pm
Carpet Bowling Wed 1pm
Chair Yoga *
14
OK Falls Zen Centre
Wednesdays 9:30am
15
16
Bonfire Party * 17
Pioneer Park 4-7pm
Skaha Matters
OK Falls Legion #227*
Meat Draws Fri/Sat 5pm
OK Falls Senior Centre*
Submission Deadline
Drop-in Bingo 1pm
15th-20th
OK Falls Legion #227*
Robbie Burns Night
Society AGM
OK Falls Legion #227*
Fun Time with Hotdogs,
Horse Racing & More!
Sundays 1pm
NEW BC Transit
Service for
Okanagan Falls *
OK Falls Senior Centre*
Tuesday Bingo at 1pm
1st 3 Tuesdays each month
Free from Jan 19- Feb 6
25
20
26
OK Falls Legion #227*
General Meeting at 7pm
27
St. Barbara’s Church OK Falls Legion #227* Preschool Storytime *
1st 3 Sundays at 9:30
4th Sunday at 1pm
Mondays Crib at 1pm
Kaleden Library Tues 10am
Begins Jan 27th
21
Family Storytime *
OK Falls Library
Wednesdays 1:30pm
Begins Jan 21st
OK Falls Legion #227*
Live Entertainment 6:30pm
22
23
OK Falls Senior Centre* OK Falls Senior Centre*
Thursdays Scrabble 10am,
Thursdays Bridge 1pm &
Thursdays Crib 7pm
Music & Coffee
Wed/Fri 9-10:30am
“Learn To Fish”
24
Kid’s Event on Yellow Lake
Family Literacy Day *
Cherry Lane Mall
League Darts Wed 7pm
28
Pharmasave’s
Customer
Appreciation Day *
OK Falls Senior Centre* Living the Dream P-1*
Tuesdays Pool 6:30pm
10
OK Falls Senior Centre* OK Falls Senior Centre* OK Falls Legion #227*
OK Falls Legion #227*
OK Falls Senior Centre* Shuffleboard Tue/Thur 1pm
OK Falls Senior Centre 7pm South Skaha Housing
19
Pancake Breakfast 8-10am
Live Entertainment & Food
OK Falls Rec Centre 7pm
18
3
OK Falls Senior Centre*
OK Falls Rec Centre 7:30pm
29
Blood Donor Clinic *
Penticton Senior Centre
Jan 1 / 2 / 29 / 30 1:30-5:30pm
30
Lego Night *
Kaleden Library
31
OK Falls Legion #227*
Drop-in Darts Saturdays 1pm
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
FROM THE DIRECTOR
“A New Year Begins”
Happy New Year to all the residents of Area
‘D’! I’d like to start this second chapter in
my mandate as Director by thanking you
for your confidence and for re-electing me
on November 15th.
The newly elected Board of Directors for the
Regional District convened on December
11th. With 8 of the 18 members on the
Board sitting for the first time, it should
make for an interesting and enjoyable year.
The Board re-elected Mark Pendergraft as
Tom Siddon
their Chairperson for the coming term and
Director of
Michael Brydon as Chair of the Hospital
RDOS Area ‘D’
District. Congratulations to both of these
two gentlemen on accepting the challenge.
As we enter a new year, it is also a timely moment to express my
gratitude to our Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Bill Newell; to our
several program managers at the RDOS and to the countless staff and
outside workers who diligently maintain the services that the Regional
District is mandated to deliver on your behalf. These folks, including
our Area ‘D’ clerk Denise Melenka, our Economic Development
Co-ordinator John Powell, and Alternate Director Tom Styffe, have
provided outstanding service to the electors of the area during my
past three years as your representative.
Page 3
Negotiations are presently underway to secure the necessary parcels
of land required to build the proposed park.
Simultaneously, and arising from discussions of options for the
revitalization of the Okanagan Falls Town Centre, I have been urged
by many residents during recent months to explore the possibility
of the RDOS acquiring the last available privately-owned parcel of
lakeshore property in Okanagan Falls, this being the former Lamb
family campground site located at the foot of Willow Street. Acquiring
this parcel will allow the RDOS to complete the Heritage Walk along
the Skaha lakeshore from Lions Park to Main Street, as was envisaged
in the Park development concept plan proposed by my predecessor,
former Director Bill Schwarz. A conditional agreement to purchase
this property, subject to financing, was successfully concluded on
Friday, December 19th.
To this end, and in the spirit of open public discussion, I am
calling a Special Community Meeting on Tuesday, January 13th,
at the OK Falls Senior’s Centre to outline these two projects, with
a financial proposal for achieving them. Together with our existing
park acquisition reserves, the RDOS will need to borrow additional
moneys in order to proceed with these two projects. The estimated
additional funds needed to finance and complete these projects will be
about $750,000. When amortized over a period of 20 years, the cost
to each registered property would average approximately $25 - $40
per year (or about $2 - $3 per month).
I can assure all taxpayers that no decision will be made to proceed
with these projects unless there is an affirmative vote taken by
referendum. Please come out and participate in the discussion on
Budget Preparation for 2015 ~ At this time of year our Financial Tuesday, January 13th.
Services Manager, Sandy Croteau, is busy compiling all of the financial Some Final News Items:
line-items to maintain our departmental services, infrastructure costs •
The Citizen’s Advisory Committee for sewer extension to
and external agency expenses at reasonable levels for the 2015
Kaleden and Skaha Estates met informally with our engineering
financial year. As always, our commitment as Board Directors is to
consultants on Wednesday, November 26th to review progress
keep our eye on the financial bottom line and to protect the taxpayers
on design options.
from unnecessary tax increases. This process started with our first •
The Area D-1 OCP Review Committee held their first meeting
full budget meeting on December 18th, and will continue through
with RDOS Planning Staff on Friday, December 19th. There is
numerous public and Board level discussions to “sharpen” our
still room for a few more residents to join this project.
financial projections over the next couple of months. This will include •
A great Community Christmas Event, organized by Stan and Lana
a public budget workshop in Area ‘D’ in mid-February. The budget is
Maber, was held in downtown OK Falls on Saturday, December
where we prioritize our projects and citizen input can still have a big
6th. Congratulations Stan and Lana, and to all your volunteers
impact on what we do in 2015, so please come out.
and sponsors, for a job well done!
Kaleden News ~ On Tuesday, December 16th, I met with the •
Our Age-Friendly Steering Committee, under the capable
Kaleden Recreation Commission to discuss their budget priorities
leadership of Janet Black has won a second $20,000 grant from
for 2015 and to review the continuing upgrades to the Kaleden Hall,
the UBCM Senior’s Support Initiative. This grant will be used to
the kitchen, and parks and recreational facilities. Our RDOS Parks/
hire an age-friendly project coordinator and to develop workshops
Facilities Coordinator, Justin Shuttleworth, also reported that work
and services for seniors in OK Falls. Great work Janet, by you
would be continuing on the Lakehill Road pedestrian walkway and
and your team!
the KVR Trail during the first half of 2015. These projects have been •
The new Band Shell Construction Project in Centennial Park is
delayed in recent months due to additional design requirements.
now underway. A big bouquet to the Women’s Institute and Band
Shell Committee for getting the contract awarded to Greyback
Okanagan Falls Parks & Rec ~ The Parks & Rec Commission held
Construction. And, thanks to our MLA Linda Larson for helping
its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, December 17th. Four
push this project “over the top” with a generous last minute grant
existing members were re-elected for additional 2 year terms; five other
from the Provincial government.
incumbents will continue for one more year. Commission Chair Mike
Pearce gave his annual report on the excellent work our Commission Well folks, that is enough to get 2015 off and running.
and staff have done in 2014 to maintain our beautiful parks and
Happy New Year!
popular recreation programs for the benefit of the community.
Mike Pearce then announced that he would be stepping down from
his position as Chair. After a short discussion, Vice Chair Don Clark
was unanimously acclaimed as Chairperson for 2015.
A Special Public Meeting on Parks is scheduled for Tuesday, Tom Siddon, RDOS Director Area ‘D’ // tsiddon@rdos.bc.ca
January 13th ~ During the past several months, I and RDOS staff 250-809-2548 // Penticton Office - 250-490-4215 // www.rdos.bc.ca
have been working with the Heritage Hills/Lakeshore Highlands
Resident’s Association on a plan to develop a long-anticipated
neighborhood park in Heritage Hills. Last October I arranged for the
HH/LH Park Committee to present their preliminary concept plan to
the Okanagan Falls Parks and Rec Commission. This was necessary,
because the new park will be located in the OK Falls service area.
Linda Larson, MLA
~ Boundary-Similkameen
6369 Main Street, Box 998, Oliver, BC V0H 1T0
Tel: 250.498.5122 Toll-free: 1.855.498.5122
“Your Voice in Victoria!” Linda.Larson.MLA@leg.bc.ca
Page 4
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Area ‘D’ Economic
Development Office
with John Powell
Happy New Year to one and all. I hope that 2015
brings great things to you and yours.
As we embark on a new year, the implementation
of our Economic Development Action Plan
remains a priority for the Economic Development
Office. I will continue to introduce, implement and build upon identified
economic development programs that support our existing businesses
and communities and work to attract new investors. I will continue to
work hard to attract new businesses to the area, particularly to the
former Weyerhaeuser site and to Okanagan Falls’ Town Centre.
Few communities can boast the amount of commercial and industrial
land that Okanagan Falls can. Therefore, Okanagan Falls is in a
position to provide an antidote to Okanagan businesses that are
faced with the dilemma of wanting to stay in the valley, but also
needing space in order to grow and prosper. We remain committed to
finding a developer/businesses that are willing to take over the entire
Weyerhaeuser property. It is the expressed wish of Weyerhaeuser,
the current owners, to keep the entire 130 acres intact rather than
sell-off smaller parcels of land. It is important that I continue to hear
from businesses that are exploring the option of relocating to the
Weyerhaeuser site, as demand will help us to negotiate how the site
is eventually sold.
As a major regional economic growth hub, Okanagan Falls has
a great deal to offer the South Okanagan and Similkameen (SOS)
region. I have, therefore, invested a considerable amount of time
working with other South Okanagan and Similkameen communities
to position Okanagan Falls prominently within the wider region. As
a small community, I have long since embraced the principle that
Okanagan Falls and Area “D” has a stronger voice participating as
part of a region than it can have when standing on its own. This
principle permeates through much of the work that I have undertaken
throughout 2014. In recent months, I, together with my Economic
Development counterparts in other nearby communities, several
Chambers of Commerce’s, Okanagan College, Community Futures
and the Provincial Government have been successfully working as a
consortium on projects that will benefit the entire region, as well as the
individual communities within it. It has become very evident that many
of the challenges that we are addressing in Area “D” are also being
faced in other communities in the Okanagan-Similkameen. Working
as a region avoids duplication, pools our resources and gets all of us
a better “bang for our buck”.
The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) recently
launched a project to review and update the Kaleden/Apex
Official Community Plan (OCP) for Electoral Area ‘D-1’. This
plan covers all of Area “D” to the West of Skaha Lake. For further
information, please visit www.okfalls.ca.
Working with individual businesses to deal with immediate challenges
is something that I do on an ongoing basis. One of the questions I
get asked by these businesses relates to business start-up and
development grants. These types of grants are generally far less
abundant than business loans, which means that when I come across
grants that I believe are worth sharing, I do so. Here is a couple:
Canada-BC Jobs Grant which is open to any company (large
or small, profit and not-for-profit) that could use some financial
assistance in training employees. This program will assist in
covering a whole host of training related costs. The website
has an online application form with a 30 day turn around and
a growing pot of money over the next few years. http://www.
workbc.ca/canadabcjobgrant
Buy Local Program Funding is now available and applications
are being accepted. Please visit their website (http://www.iafbc.
ca/funding_available/programs/buylocal/default.htm) for more
info and to learn how to apply for funding. Applications are being
accepted now. Please feel free to contact Willow Minaker Tel:
250-356-9453 | Fax: 250-514-6801 | email: willow.minaker@gov.
bc.ca for more information.
If you want to discuss items raised in this article, find out more about
the role of the Economic Development Office, talk about the work I’m
currently doing, get assistance with RDOS-related matters or other
related questions, please contact John Powell, Area ‘D’ Economic
Development Coordinator at 778.515.5520 or jpowell@rdos.bc.ca
ICBC Insurance
Out-of-Province Insurance Claims
Windshield Replacement
ICBC Lifetime/Nation Wide Warranty
Computerized Free Estimates
250.276.6257
1450 Clark Avenue in Penticton
THE BODY SHOP NETWORK
FIX AUTO PENTICTON
www.pentictoncollisioncentre.com
A big THANK YOU to everyone for their support over the last
year. We truly enjoyed meeting each and every one of you and
look forward to continuing to help out with storage needs in the
community. Wishing you all a successful and prosperous 2015.
Year-Round Helping Hand Drop Off Location
We are accepting non-perishable food items and monetary donations for
the OK Falls Helping Hand all year long. Anytime you have a little extra
to share, come on by and donate to a local worthy cause that needs your
support. Help us help those a little less fortunate throughout the year.
250.497.3279
Winter Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-4:00 & Sat 10:00-3:30
1964 Oliver Ranch Road, Okanagan Falls
info@easylockselfstorage.com
www.easylockselfstorage.com
In-Store Bakery, Deli and Meat Department
Wide Selection of Fresh Produce
Your Local Grocer ...
Proud to Serve our Community!
Closed New Years Day
Open 8-7 Jan 2&3, then Open 8-8 Daily!
250.497.5818
5350 9th Avenue, Okanagan Falls
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
RCMP Community Report
with Sgt Rick Dellebuur, Penticton RCMP
Despite warnings and knowing better, people continue to leave
themselves exposed to theft. A “break in and theft” attacks the very
core belief that one’s home is a safe haven, somewhere safe shared
only with family and friends. Along with the property and monetary
loss, there is also the loss of feeling secure and a violation of your
privacy. Still people don’t take simple steps to secure themselves
against becoming victims of break ins and theft.
We have experienced an increase of such activity in the area, and
while all break ins and thefts cannot be prevented, certainly there are
steps that you can take to prevent some and at very least reduce
the impact on yourself. If you leave your snowmobiles / ATVs on an
unsecured trailer, you are just inviting someone to simply hook up
and drive away. If you leave your vehicle running or with the keys in
same, you are again inviting someone to take a ride. Leaving your
home unlocked or protected with poor quality locks on the doors and
windows only further helps the thieves. The old saying that locks only
keep out honest people may be true to some extent, but most thieves
are lazy opportunists that look for the easiest targets, so the trick is not
to make it easy and thus “lock it or lose it”.
Theft victims often have very little description of what was taken
and certainly seldom have serial numbers or identifying marks on
the property stolen. Police need some way of identifying property, if
they are going to be successful at locating and returning property.
People need to record serial numbers, a description such as make,
model, colour and where possible engrave their driver’s licence
number on valuable items and tools. Police often find known thieves
in possession of property believed to be stolen, and yet cannot prove
that the property is stolen. However, if people were to simply record
their serial numbers and where possible engrave their driver’s licence
number on the item, as in this example: BCDL 123456, then if the item
is ever stolen they can provide this information to the police. Police in
turn can now enter the property with make, model, serial number and/or
the owners BC driver’s licence number on the police computer. Police
routinely check property serial numbers and identifying numbers on
the computer to see if it is entered on the system as stolen. If it is, we
quickly know the owner, when and where it was stolen and if anything
else was also taken. This gives police the legal authority to seize the
property and return it to the owner. It also helps in prosecuting the
thieves. A BC licence number is very easy for police to check and get
the particulars on licence holder, unlike a Social Insurance Number,
which was the number that many placed on property in the past. We
will be far more successful in locating your Red Honda 2000 watt
generator with serial number 123456 & BCDL 3456789, than we will
be in locating your generator simply described as a Red Honda.
In conclusion, people need to secure their property and homes to limit
the opportunity for thieves, as well as a better inventory and means of
identifying their property in the event of a theft. The harder it is for the
thief to access your property, the more likely they will go somewhere
else to ply their trade. The better identifiable your property, the better
chance the police have in catching the thief and returning your
property. If you would like more information on how you can better
protect yourself from becoming a victim of theft or home security,
please contact Penticton RCMP Community Policing at 250-492-4300.
Kim Harris
Cell: 250.462.4232
kimharris@royallepage.ca
Office & 24 hr pager: 250.497.5541
837 Main Street in Okanagan Falls
My Passion ... Helping you to
reach your Real Estate goals
Page 5
Sue's Gardening
Happy New Year To All!
A special “Thank You” to those that
used my services this past year.
I look forward to serving you in the Spring!
From Sue Upton of Sue’s Gardening
25 Years Experience Free Estimates 250-809-5499
Okanagan Falls Irrigation District News
with Bob Daly, OFID Chair
The Okanagan Falls Irrigation District Trustees and Staff spent
the December 2014 meeting reviewing the Districts’ work and
accomplishments through 2014.
During 2014, the Irrigation District has: expanded the number of
committees in order to share the workload among the Trustees and to
better utilize their skills and knowledge; begun a handbook of policies
and procedures to ensure consistency in its’ operation; worked to
improve communications with the public, Interior Health and other
agencies; developed a model for budget planning for 1/5/10 years;
continued to update the Emergency Response Plan; and, undergone
a review of operations and administration to guide the District toward
further improvement.
The Board and Staff, along with our engineering firm Focus
Corporation, have spent a good deal of the past year reviewing the
infrastructure and operation of the system. We have identified a
number of long-term necessary projects including upgrades to the
water distribution system and fire flows, and repair and replacement
of aging parts of the system.
New Well in Upper Zone ~ The Board has begun the installation of a
new well and pumping station, complete with emergency power on a
site on Maple Street. This will reduce the stress on some of our older
wells and will enable operation in the event of a major power failure.
This project is expected to be completed by the Summer of 2015.
Operations and Administration Review ~ This past September, the
Board initiated a review of operations and administration by Agua
Consulting of Kelowna in order to guide the District in its planning and
improvement. The report was recently received.
The Report finds the District to be appropriately staffed with an
Administrator who is knowledgeable and well-organized and a
competent and experienced Operator who is carrying out the
necessary works and maintenance for the District.
Recommendations include: adopting Operating Principles that will
guide and determine the quality of the decisions made by the Board;
considering a digital filing system to improve the security of records;
investigating software accounting packages applicable to a small
utility; establishing a website to better inform the public; streamlining
operator planning to maximize use of time; establishing an ongoing
annual work plan as a guideline of the work that needs to be done
over each year; and continuing to strive for improvement.
The “Operations and Administration Review” and Emergency
Response Plan” are available for reading at the Irrigation District Office.
DANIEL K. LO
MOBILE LEGAL & NOTARIAL SERVICES
DELIVERING BEYOND 9-5
Available for Evening & Weekend Appointments
E: Daniel@dklmobilelaw.ca
P: 250-770-2951
C: 778-931-0461
W: dklmobilelaw.ca
CORPORATE AND COMMERCIAL LAW
WILLS, ESTATES AND PROBATE LAW
REAL ESTATE CONVEYANCING
COLLABORATIVE FAMILY LAW
Page 6
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Heritage Hills / Lakeshore Highlands
Christmas 2014 Update
Submitted by Doug and Susan Lychak,
Heritage Hills/Lakeshore Highlands Homeowner’s Association
On Wednesday, December 3rd, 2014 Heritage Hills/Lakeshore
Highlands Homeowner’s Association held their Annual General
Meeting and Christmas Social at the OK Falls Seniors Centre. We had
our largest turnout ever. Thank you to all new and existing members
for their participation and generosity. Non-perishable food items were
collected for donation to the OK Falls Helping Hand and a Christmas
Basket was raffled off to raise funds for a financial donation. $150 was
raised from the raffle and Joyce Devlin and Wendy Lane delivered the
food and our cheque to Vera Gilbert of Helping Hand on Thursday,
December 4th (see photo below).
We wish to take this opportunity of wishing all a very happy and safe
Holiday Season and all the best in 2015.
“Happy New Year”
To Twin Lakes Area
The Greater Twin Lake Area Stewardship Society
(GTLASS) extends best wishes to all for a healthy
and happy 2015!
GTLASS’s mandate is to protect our area’s natural resources and
inhabitants. In keeping with Environment Canada’s statement,
“Sustainable development is about meeting the needs of today
without compromising the needs of future generations”, GTLASS
and the Lower Nipit Improvement District support development in the
Greater Twin Lake area provided it is sustainable. Please join our
dynamic membership in responsible stewardship of the Greater Twin
Lake area! Visit www.gtlass.ca or for further information, please call
250-497-8550. For the Position Statement facts, issues and studies,
please see the Lower Nipit Improvement District Facebook site.
NOW RECRUITING!
Paid On Call Positions
Now Available!
Call 250.497.8231 or
kaledenfire@shaw.ca
HOUSECLEANER ~ $25/hr
Vera Gilbert (centre) of the Okanagan Falls Helping Hand receives $150 donation,
along with non-perishable food items, from the Heritage Hills/Lakeshore Highlands
Homeowner’s Association on December 4th. Thank you for your support!
Reliable Experienced Trustworthy References Available
Heather ~ 250-497-1171
Celebrating 25 Years!
1990 - 2015
Open for Winter Wine Sales Monday – Friday, 10 – 4pm
www.wildgoosewinery.com
2145 Sun Valley Way, Okanagan Falls, BC
250.497.8919
info@wildgoosewinery.com
@wildgoosewines
facebook.com/wildgoosevineyards
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Page 7
Winter Walking Safety ...
Staying Fall Free This Winter
Okanagan Falls
Winery Association
Recycles For Charity!
Courtesy of the Ministry of Health
Winter weather can make for wary walking conditions and unexpected
falls, but with some prevention and planning, injuries can be avoided.
Falls outdoors are a particular health concern for older adults at this
time of year, when winter weather and less daylight can have an
impact on mobility.
“Falling can result in bruises, sprains, and more serious injuries like
broken bones or concussions, all of which can significantly impact
long term health – particularly for seniors,” said Health Minister Terry
Lake. “Taking steps to avoid an unexpected slip or trip may take a few
extra minutes, but will have a strong influence on our health down the
road.”
Each year, one in three BC seniors experience at least one fall. Data
from last winter indicates that over 260,000 British Columbians over
the age of 65 will experience at least one fall this winter.
“Falls are a common cause of injury for older adults and the main
reason seniors lose their independence,” said Michelle Stilwell,
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for Healthy Living
and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for Seniors.
“Being proactive with health and safety is an invaluable investment
in ourselves.”
People of all ages can experience falls; these tips can help everyone
to stay fall-free this winter:
• Eat foods high in Vitamin D and calcium and/or take supplements
to get the recommended daily intake, both play an important role
for muscular strength and bone health.
• Wear footwear with non-slip tread and add ice-grippers over your
footwear when the temperature is below freezing.
• Take a cell phone with you – it is a good way to let people know
your plans and call for assistance if needed.
• Choose cleared sidewalks and well-lit routes.
• Avoid carrying objects that are too heavy or bulky and may cause
you to lose your balance.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough time to get to your
destination without rushing.
• Stay active with strengthening and balance exercises that can be
done inside or out. Strong muscles and bones are important in
preventing falls and getting around safely.
• Ask for assistance or tap into community resources. The Better
at Home program provides support with day-to-day tasks to
help increase seniors’ independence such as transportation to
appointments or shovelling the walk.
• Have a plan – if you experienced a fall, what would you do?
Knowing your next steps can assist in getting help as quickly as
possible and may even save your life.
• Ask yourself if you are at risk – check your risk for falling with the
Staying Independent fall risk assessment tool: www.seniorsbc.
ca/stayingindependent
“Falls are no accident and most are preventable. It is imperative we
take action to identify older adults at greatest risk for falls and intervene
with known effective programs,” said Heather McKay, director of the
Centre for Hip Health and Mobility. “Consulting with your primary care
physician or nurse practitioner about falls prevention programs in your
community, has been shown to reduce falls by as much as 50%.”
During Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness week, the Ministry of
Health announced a $4.5 million grant through the Provincial Health
Services Authority to the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility for
programs to help prevent falls and hip fractures in older adults and
enhance mobility though early intervention.
Information on falls prevention can be found at: www.SeniorsBC.ca/
stayingindependent. For more information on Better at Home, visit:
www.betterathome.ca.
Throughout the 2014 winery tasting room season, all of the wineries
belonging to the Okanagan Falls Winery Association recycled the
empty bottles from their tasting rooms with the help of local Appleton
Waste Services. Once a week, the bottles would be collected from the
wineries, counted, and the bottle deposits tallied.
On December 5th, the money from those bottle deposits were
donated to the Okanagan Falls Helping Hand. The Helping Hand
provides and distributes Christmas Hampers to low income families in
the community, provides apples twice-weekly at the local Elementary
School, provides Emergency Hampers throughout the year and
supports the Breakfast Program at the local Elementary School.
A cheque for $983.60 was presented to the Helping Hand from the
Okanagan Falls Winery Association and Appleton Waste Services.
Okanagan Falls Winery Association presents the Okanagan Falls Helping Hand with
a cheque for $983.60 from recycling bottles from the winery membership’s tasting
rooms in 2014. In photo above from left to right - Roland Kruger of Wild Goose
Winery, Vera Gilbert of Okanagan Falls Helping Hand, Rock Appleton of Appleton
Waste Services, and Ian MacDonald of Liquidity Wines.
For more information on Okanagan Falls Winery Association, visit
www.ofwa.ca, and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Creating premium quality wines & wine experiences
Happy New Year!
Purchase Noble Ridge Wines on-line, at your local store,
or through our Wine Club Membership.
Members can enjoy special offers and activities,
access to Library Wines, no membership fee,
and door to door delivery 3 times a year.
Tasting Room Open By Appointment January - April
E: info@nobleridge.com
W: nobleridge.com
2320 Oliver Ranch Rd, OK Falls FB: Noble_Ridge Tw: @Noble_Ridge
T: 250.497.7945
Page 8
January 2015
Update
By Kim Denis, Commission Member
Bonfire Party in Pioneer Park ~ You are invited
to a Bonfire Party in Pioneer Party on Saturday,
January 17th from 4 - 7 pm. If there is “ice” on the
rink, bring your skates. If not, we will party in the park!
Bring your roasting sticks to cook Hotdogs and
Smores. Enjoy hot drinks, sing along with the DJ
music by Mike, and play fun games like hula hooping,
conga line dancing, and red light - green light.
Remember to dress weather appropriate, wear helmets if you are on
the ice, and dress up in something crazy and creative for some extra
funny times!
If you have comments or suggestions, please find us
on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.
SkahaMatters.com
10 Ways To Stay Active This Winter
By Michelle Stilwell,
Parliamentary Secretary for Healthy Living
“As an elite athlete, I understand that the dark and cold winter months
can take their toll on our motivation to stay active. It is tempting to stay
inside and curl up, but there are plenty of things we can do indoors
and out to get the recommended amount of daily activity and keep
feeling our best.
Here are 10 ways to keep active this season.
1. Set small, achievable goals, such as running on the spot during
the commercials of your favourite TV show or committing to
walking 20 minutes a day. Whatever it is, the sooner you commit
to it, the sooner you will feel the benefits.
2. Create an activity calendar for a month, with daily goals - such as
going for a swim or playing a game of tag. If you have kids, ask
them to help create the goals.
3. Keep it simple and just go for a short walk! It doesn’t have to be
outdoors - find a local community centre with a running track, pop
2nd Public Budget Informational Meeting on Tuesday, January
into a mall, or walk around your office building with co-workers.
6th from 7 - 8 pm ~ We invite the public to the Kaleden Community
Any opportunity to rack up the recommended 10,000 steps a day
Hall to hear the updated 2015 budget draft. This is the last meeting
is a good one.
to give input into the operating and capital budget. And while there,
you can have a look at the newly renovated kitchen. It is ready for 4. Visiting a friend out of town? Pack your workout gear and make a
point of joining them at their gym/workout class.
public use. If you know of anyone planning a special event that needs
meeting space, kitchen facilities or a wedding venue, please direct 5. Embrace the cold and snow. Make a day of it or just take an
them to the Kaleden Parks and Recreation “Facilities” page at www.
hour. Bundle up and go tobogganing, build a snowman, try
kal-rec.ca. Or phone 250-488-0260 and speak with Jodie, the Kalsnowshoeing or hit the mountains to go skiing.
Rec Coordinator.
6. Involve the kids. Children need between 60 and 180 minutes
of physical activity a day, so try joining them for a game in the
Exercise Really Does A Body Good ~ Make 2015
backyard. Enjoy a family walk after dinner to check out the holiday
the year you enjoy more fitness, socializing and
decorations in your neighbourhood.
join in the fun of our regular Community Programs.
We have Floor Hockey Monday Nights; Girl Guides
7. Get the whole family together and have a dance party. Crank the
Wednesday Nights; Badminton Wednesday Nights; Volleyball
tunes and have fun while you do the dishes!
Thursday Nights; and Pickle Ball Tuesday Nights, plus Thursday and
8. Use the Internet. While more screen time is not usually associated
Saturday mornings. Visit the Kal-Rec website for more information
with active living, you can use it to learn the basics of a new
under “Happenings” for the contact persons and phone numbers for
dance, yoga or tai chi to find out if you like it before committing to
each of the above. Check out our “Calendar” page on www.kal-rec.ca
formal instruction or classes.
for all the regular scheduled reservations.
9. Check out your local parks and recreation centre. They have
New Signs ~ Did you notice that we now have another way for you to
activities to suit all ages, budgets and schedules - allowing you to
hear about what is happening in the community? There are two new
be active and meet new people.
sandwich boards on Ash Avenue and Larch Avenue.
10. Looking for more? Call our friends at the Physical Activity Line 1
Relax ... Rejuvenate ... Heal
877 725-1149, a free phone line and online resource for credible
Gift Certificates Available!
physical activity and healthy living information.
Happy Healthy 2015 To All
250.497.8806
Reliable
Travel
Jaynie Molloy BSc. Hon. CH.
110 Linden Avenue, Kaleden
Locally Owned
and Operated
For All Your Travel Needs
Toll Free: 1.866.497.8785
Vi ~ 250.497.8785 Wendy ~ Cell: 250.488.7490
www.reliabletravelcanada.com
BC Business Licence #48999
“Adults should get at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week in
sessions of 10 minutes or more. That’s just over 20 minutes a day. It
doesn’t sound like much, but those 20 minutes can help reduce the
risk of premature death, heart disease and stroke among other health
benefits, and be fun.
“Through the Healthy Families BC framework, government continues
to focus on keeping British Columbians healthy by addressing health
prevention issues such as chronic disease, unhealthy eating and
tobacco use. For more information and tips on how to stay active visit:
www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca”
For an audio clip of Parliamentary Secretary Michelle Stilwell
speaking about staying active in the winter months, please visit:
https://soundcloud.com/bcgov/minister-stilwell-staying-active-duringthe-winter-december-23-2014/s-RyhGs
Healthy Coffee by Organo Gold!
Contact for more info, to purchase, to book a home coffee party, or hear
about the amazing business opportunity! Brewkups now available too!
Sue Schulz sschulz4@telusplanet.net 250.498.0484
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Page 9
250.497.8188 info@okfalls.net www.okfalls.net
Your 2015 Winter Program and Schedule of Events
is on the website. Flyers available at the office.
Winter Programs At-A-Glance ~ Something For Everyone!
KIDS/TEENS Monday
Urban Dance
2:45-3:45 pm
Jan 12th - Feb 23rd
Youth & Teen
Leadership Club
Day and Time TBA
Please Note: Pre-registration
is required on ALL programs
not noted as drop-in.
ADULTS
Monday
Gentle Yoga (mixed levels)
9:30-10:45 am
Spin & Sculpt Max 7 guests
5:00-6:15 pm
Please Note: Pre-register
for adult classes on-line to
ensure your space.
Tuesday
Cartwheel Club
Pre-school 2:45-3:30 pm
K-6 3:45-4:45 pm
Jan 13th - Feb 3rd
Adventures in Art
2:45-3:45 pm
Feb 10, 17th & 24th
Junior Artists
4:00-5:00 pm
Jan 13th - Mid March
Wednesday
$ Twoonie Gym
Drop-in - All ages
(parent participation)
2:45-4:00 pm
Jan 14th - March 11th
Ballet
Age 3-4 3:00-3:30 pm
Age 5-6 3:30-4:00 pm
Jan 14th - March 11th
Tuesday
Gentle Fit ~ 9:30-10:30 am
Group Fitness ~ 5-6 pm
(Hand Weights and Circuit)
Please Note: All programs start
back the week of January 5th.
Wednesday
Spin
6:00-7:00 am
Chair Yoga (Mostly seated)
9:30-10:30 am
An Okanagan Falls
Healthy Communities
Special Feature
Making the Healthy Choice ... The preferred Choice!
2nd Age Friendly Grant Awarded!
Okanagan Falls Parks and Recreation and the RDOS are happy to
announce that Okanagan Falls is the recipient of a second $20,000
UBCM Age Friendly Grant. This will enable the Age Friendly Steering
Committee to engage a part-time coordinator in 2015 to develop a
communication tool / resource directory and to implement other
priorities as determined in the Age-Friendly Plan. As well, older adults
can watch for a series of workshops next year on a variety of healthy
living and educational topics.
If there is someone you would like to see honoured for healthy choices,
contact Janet or Nancy at info@okfalls.net or 250-497-8188.
Blood Donor Clinics
January 1st / 2nd & 29th / 30th
1:30-5:30 pm - Penticton Seniors Drop-in Centre
2965 South Main Street in Penticton
To donate BY APPOINTMENT, call 1-888-2DONATE
OR www.blood.ca It’s in you to give!
INNER BLISS BELLY DANCING by Jenny
Reiki & Ra-Sheeba Master ~ Professional Teacher/Performer ~ Egyptian
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Have Fun, Get Fit, Feel Fabulous!
Affordable Bellywear Apparel Available.
More Information? 250.497.1189 or jpuls@shaw.ca or www.innerblissbellydancing.com
Thursday
Floor Curling
4:00-5:00 pm
Jan 15th - 29th
Kids Club
4:00-5:00 pm Drop-in
Feb 5th - March 5th
Youth & Teen
Basketball
2:30-3:30 pm
Jan 15 - Feb 19th
Thursday
Gentle Fit ~ 9:30-10:30 am
Spin and Sculpt ~ 5-6 pm
Yoga with Marsha
(Mixed Levels - Not Beginner)
6:45-8:00 pm
PICKLE-BALL ~ By request for
Groups of 4 or more
Friday
Fit-Kidz Gymnastics Club Demo
6:00-8:30 Jan 23rd
Early Dismissal - Fabric Art
12:00-2:30 Jan 28th
Magic Show ~ 6:00-8:30 Feb 20th
Early Dismissal Bounce House
12:00-2:30 Feb 25th
Youth & Teen Events:
Lacrosse ~ Jan 9th 7-9 pm
Vee’s Game ~ Jan 23 TBA
Floor Curling ~ Feb 6th 7-9 pm
Apex Tubing ~ Feb 27th TBA
Friday
Gentle (Dru) Yoga
9:30-10:45 am
Watch for our Sampler Series:
Fantastic Fitness Classes with
Special Guests!
Are you over 50? Just $15/yr to join!
Enjoy activities that interest you.
Meet new people. Get out and have FUN!
Become a member of the OK Falls Seniors Centre!
Call Audree at 250-497-5572 or Janet at 250-497-5521
Ballet Classes At
OK Falls Recreation Centre
with Roberta Meakin, Ballet Instructor
I have had a great Fall session of Ballet Classes here in OK Falls.
Lots of returning students and a few new ones as well. My Winter
session of classes begins Wednesday, January 14th and goes until
Wednesday, March 16th. I will be offering Tiny Toes Dance for those
preschool students aged 3-5 years, as well as offering my Pre-primary
Ballet, Royal Academy of Dance program for those students age 5
(Kindergarten) to age 7. For any older students wishing to take Ballet
from me, I offer classes in Oliver at their Rec Centre on Tuesdays and
in Penticton on Fridays, or you can contact me directly at 250- 4923287 with your questions.
All classes are taught in a
safe and caring atmosphere.
The New Year is a perfect
opportunity to give a little
one the gift of imagination,
music and movement. I
look forward to seeing all
my regular students and
welcoming new ones as
well. Happy New Year!
Page 10
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Live Well
HEALTH TIP
What would you like in 2015?
By Wendy MacKay
December was busy enjoying family, connecting with friends and
planning for 2015. I would like to personally wish everyone a very
Happy and Successful New Year!
Do you believe in New Year’s Resolutions? There’s been a lot of
controversy as to how successful they are, but my opinion is it’s
always good to be setting intentions for improvements. So even if it
only shifts your mind for a moment, it’s a start.
Last year I made a resolution or ‘set an intention’ to consciously and
consistently let go of my own drama. In other words, I chose to stop
making excuses, feeling sorry for myself or blaming others for the lack
of anything I want. Whether it’s optimal health, financial abundance,
daily happiness or career success, I take full responsibility for my
thoughts, actions and everything I attract ... good, bad, right or wrong.
I choose not to criticize, blame or hold a grudge. Every day I will
intentionally learn something new. Some days are frustrating, others
are inspiring, but all are the result of my own actions. I am empowered
and what happens to me is the result of how I think, what I do and how
I feel. No thing, no one and no circumstance happens to me unless
I allow it. I have slipped up regularly over the year, but I am making
progress. I will continue to change my old habits and beliefs and with
the love and patience of family and friends I will be a better person.
What would you like in 2015? Are there any changes or habits you
would like to break to have a more empowered life? Will you stay
focused daily on your intention, so you make consistent change?
If you slip up, will you persist and get back on track? Why not
deliberately decide how you want to evolve? If your life feels abundant
and happy, how can you share what you have? What you share could
be knowledge, material possessions, inspiration, time, money or even
a smile. Start thinking about what you can give instead of get. Could
you make a difference every day in some small way?
Together we can make a difference. Let’s make 2015 the best year
ever!
I have a fun retreat coming up in March going to Sedona, Arizona for
one week. If you would like to join me, please call for information at
250-497-8168.
By Appointment Only
Perry Tompkins, Pharmacy Mgr
brought to you by
Pharmasave
Okanagan Falls
What the heck is Diosmin (Hemovel®)?
Here’s an interesting question ... What do varicose veins and
hemorrhoids have in common? They’re both an uncomfortable fact
of life and both improve with the use of Diosmin, a product derived
from the Spanish plant Teucrium gnaphalodes.
I recently encountered Diosmin through a background
advertisement on the internet and remember dismissing it out of
hand when I saw that it claimed to be an effective treatment for
hemorrhoid ... that came as a pill. Seeming implausible, I forgot
about it until days later when I noticed the tablets sitting next to the
Preparation H® on our shelf. With my curiosity peaked, I decided to
look into it.
I was astonished to learn that it is in fact pretty effective against
hemorrhoids, a condition that more than half of all Canadians will
experience during their lifetime. In turns out the Europeans have
been taking it for years to reduce pain, swelling and bleeding
associated with hemorrhoids and research studies have confirmed
its effectiveness and safety in this regard. But interestingly enough,
Diosmin has also been used for the swelling and heaviness of
varicose veins, swollen ankles and even venous ulcers, particularly
when combined with compression stockings. In some respects, this
makes sense ... both hemorrhoids and varicose veins are distended
and inflamed blood vessels and Diosmin works by toning veins and
reducing their inflammation.
So, if you’re suffering from swollen, achy legs ... or a swollen, achy
bottom ... you might consider trying Diosmin. Its new to Canada
and sold over the counter under the name Hemovel®. Even though
it has an excellent safety record, be sure to ask your pharmacist if its
right for you. Happy New Year and here’s hoping 2015 is a good one!
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want
to go far, go together ~ African Proverb
Pharmasave Okanagan Falls
5217 9th Avenue, Highway 97 Phone: 250-497-8050
HOURS: Mon - Fri 9am - 5:30pm & Sat 9am - 4pm
*FREE Prescription Deliveries to OK Falls & Kaleden Areas*
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY at Pharmasave OK Falls!
www.LivingInTheOkanagan.com
Wednesday, January 28th ~ Receive 15% OFF*
MIKE
INGRAHAM
*Excludes prescriptions, codeine products, sale items, phone and gift cards, lottery and stamps.
&
JACLYN
KINRADE
250-493-2244
LOCATIONS WEST REALTY
484 Main St, Penticton, V2A 5C5
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Page 11
Preventing Colds and Flu Naturally:
What the Science Says
By Dr. Tamara Browne, Naturopathic
Physician, Licensed & Registered by the
BC Ministry of Health
Certain vitamin, herbs, and minerals have
immune stimulating and anti-viral effects.
Population studies show that most people
are deficient in particular vital nutrients
required to stave off viral respiratory
illnesses, such as colds, flu, pharyngitis,
laryngitis, and even pneumonia. These
deficiencies are generally more severe
in the winter months due to a lowered
exposure to sunlight, as well as other factors which may include lower
mood and activity levels and perhaps less consumption of fresh foods.
Some simple things everyone can accomplish to keep the immune
system strong this time of year are as follows:
Supplement daily with:
• Vitamin D3: Vitamin D deficiency may be the greatest cause of
seasonal colds and flu. During the colder seasons and at higher
latitudes our bodies produce much less Vitamin D, because of
lowered skin exposure to direct sunlight. A large study involving
19,000 Americans showed that those individuals with the lowest
Vitamin D levels reported having significantly more colds and
flu. The risk was even greater in those with chronic respiratory
disorders, such as Asthma. It is now known that adults can safely
consume 5000 IU daily from September through May. (Arch Intern
Med. 2009 Feb 23;169(4):384-90. Association between serum
25-hydroxyvitamin D level and upper respiratory tract infection
in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey)
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a potent anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and
anti-parasitic agent. Oral Vitamin C helps protect the body from
developing infections, and high-dose intravenous Vitamin C
is an effective method of destroying and removing pathogenic
microbes. Intravenous Vitamin C has cured viral infections,
which can be debilitating and even life threatening such as swine
flu, measles, mumps, viral encephalitis, chicken pox, shingles,
herpes, viral pneumonia, colds, and flu. Orally take 1000 mg
daily. Citrus or berry bioflavonoid compounds have added benefit
towards immune stimulation and symptom prevention.
• Zinc: Taking supplemental Zinc at the first signs of a cold or
flu can cut down the time of the illness significantly, as well as
reduce the severity of symptoms. Take 75 mg daily in a lozenge
form once symptoms have started, or 30 mg daily preventively.
(Cochrane database review of 15 randomized control trials with
1360 participants: http://summaries.cochrane.org/CD001364/
ARI_zinc-for-the-common-cold)
• Vitamin A: This vitamin also shows promise as an anti-viral
agent. It inactivates viruses, stimulates the immune system, and
protects the mucus membranes of the respiratory track from viral
invasion. 10,000 IU daily is safe and effective. Single treatments
with much higher doses (100,000-200,000 IU) have shown
benefit in treating upper respiratory viral illnesses and childhood
viral illnesses, such as Chicken Pox and Measles.
• Selenium: This mineral is deficient in processed foods and
has become increasingly deficient in soils that grow our food.
Selenium plays a role in immune function and improves liver
function. Taking 200 mcg daily seems prudent.
• Probiotics (and avoiding excessive use of antibiotics): Ensuring
a healthy population of intestinal bacteria is one of the best ways
to keep the immune system strong and functional. 80% of our
immune function stems from these healthy bacteria. I often
observe less inflammation and infection in people with healthy
bowel flora. Antibiotics can destroy the healthy balance of
CHELATION
“Improving your heart/body health”
 Improving heart and circulatory health, removing toxic metals,
preventing disease
 Oxidative therapies for safely killing pathogens such as viruses and
yeast; stimulating immunity, improving energy, and decreasing pain
 Natural Hormone Balancing and Women’s Health
The Natural Family Health Clinic &
Chelation Centre
Dr. Tamara Browne, Naturopathic Physician
1040 Main Street, Okanagan Falls, BC
PH: 250-497-6681
www.chelationokanagan.com
microbes and it is therefore recommended that with any course
of antibiotics, probiotics be administered concurrently and for
several weeks afterwards.
The following herbs all help to prevent and treat colds and flu: Garlic,
Echinacea, Astragalus, Elderberry Syrup, and Oregano Oil. These
can be taken as directed.
Also, a homeopathic remedy called Oscillococcinum works wonders
when used at the onset of a cold or flu. It can stop the development
of these illnesses, if taken near the beginning. It comes in little sugar
granules, which dissolve easily under the tongue (great for children).
And last but not least, the food we eat contributes greatly to immunity.
The most significant dietary contributor to seasonal viral infections is
sugar. By reducing sugar (and grain carbohydrates that convert to
sugar in the body), the immune system remains robust and highly
functioning. Studies clearly show that refined sugar lowers levels of
immune cells in the blood stream. And of course as always, ramp up
your consumption of fresh, raw or lightly cooked vegetables, healthy
oils, and lean protein.
Unfortunately, often prevention is left up to the Flu vaccine alone. But
to rely on this method is unwise, considering the latest evidence for its
relative lack of effectiveness. A review of the science states the following:
“The preventive effect of parenteral inactivated influenza vaccine on
healthy adults is small: at least 40 people would need vaccination
to avoid one ILI (Influenza-like-illness) case (95% confidence interval
(CI) 26 to 128) and 71 people would need vaccination to prevent one
case of influenza (95% CI 64 to 80). Vaccination shows no appreciable
effect on working days lost or hospitalization.” - See more at: http://
summaries.cochrane.org/CD001269/ARI_vaccines-to-preventinfluenza-in-healthy-adults#sthash.E9KHtt5n.dpuf
For more science supporting the natural methods which effectively
prevent and treat seasonal colds and flu, contact my office. I have
included some of the most relevant research here, but space limits the
printing of all research references.
Page 12
January 2015
SkahaMatters.com
Okanagan Falls Parks & Recreation presents ...
“Living the Dream Part 1”
Sa
Sailing down the Mississippi, across the Atlantic, around the UK,
the rivers of France and the Mediterranean Sea
with Aubrey and Judy Millard.
Attend a Free Slide Presentation showcasing their
16 years of life aboard a 32 foot sailboat.
Wednesday, January 28th at 7:30 pm
Okanagan Falls Elementary School Gymnasium
Above: Aubrey and Judy aboard VELEDA IV
They will show slides and talk about:
•
Their voyage from Toronto down the Mississippi, across the
Atlantic Ocean to England
•
Up the Seine River to Paris
•
The Mediterranean Sea from Barcelona to Tunisia, Turkey, Israel,
and Egypt
•
The Black Sea from Istanbul to Sevastopol
•
The Canal du Midi from the Mediterranean to Bordeaux
•
Their second crossing from the Canaries and Cape Verdes to
Antigua and the Caribbean
•
They will talk about their liveaboard lifestyle for 16 years.
best A Brief Sailing Bio for Aubrey and Judy Millard ~ Aubrey Millard, a
an of retired Lieutenant Commander and diving officer in the Canadian Navy
and history teacher, and his wife Judy, a retired dentist and Canadian
Power and Sail Squadron instructor, have been full time liveaboards
mboni
on Veleda IV, their 1978 Ontario 32 sloop, for 16 years. Upon
Your
retirement in 1998, they left Toronto, going up the Great Lakes and
are of
down through Chicago into the Mississippi and the Gulf of Mexico. In
1999 they crossed the Atlantic to northern Europe, to spend four more
new years in the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea before crossing back
from the Cape Verdes to Antigua. After five years in the Caribbean,
they returned to Toronto via the Hudson River and the Erie Barge
Canal in 2009. The next year they went out the St. Lawrence to the
fjords of Newfoundland and down the eastern seaboard to Central
America (Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras). Shipping Veleda
from Corpus Christi, Texas to Bellingham, Washington, they have
spent the last two years cruising from the San Juan and Gulf Islands
to Desolation Sound, the Broughton Archipelago and further north,
around Cape Caution to Rivers Inlet. Their boat is currently moored
on Thetis Island for the winter, while they are house sitting in OK Falls.
Contact via email to svveledaiv@hotmail.com or visit their website at
www.veledaiv.ca for further information.
Happy Retirement OK Falls School
Custodian Mr. Larry Luhowy!
Okanagan Falls Staff and students wish to send along their best
wishes for a happy retirement to our beloved school custodian of
many years, “Mr. Luhowy.”
Your surprise party at the Vee’s game included a ride on the Zamboni
and private box to enjoy the game with staff and friends! Your
contributions to keeping our school sparkly clean and taking care of
us over the years is more than appreciated!
OK Falls Staff also wish to welcome Mr. Brian Trower as our new
custodiam and member of our OK Falls School Team.
Come check us out for
Breakfast, Lunch or Anytime!
“Community with Every Cup”
Original Dogtown Coffee Co
5121 Hwy 97, Okanagan Falls
778-515-5524
www.dogtowncoffee.ca
Dogtown Café & Urban Market
215 Winnipeg St, Penticton
778-476-3220
The Okanagan Falls Elementary School Christmas Concert was a splendid evening
with a musical performance, “Mice Before Christmas”, will all K-7 students participating.
They
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SkahaMatters.com
Page 13
January 2015
Okanagan Falls PAC Update
with Deborah Rivest, Parent Advisory Council Chair
The Okanagan Falls PAC would like to wish everyone a Happy New
Year. We hope your Christmas was a wonderful one.
We would like to thank all the local businesses from Penticton, Apex
Mountain, and Okanagan Falls, who donated items and/or baskets
for our Annual Basket Raffle during the Okanagan Falls Elementary
Christmas Concert. Thank you also to the ladies who volunteered their
time to put all the beautiful baskets together. It was a huge success!
We invite ALL parents to join us for our PAC meetings on the first
Tuesday of every month. Our next meeting is Tuesday, January 6th
at 6:30pm in the school library. Free child minding is available. Any
questions or ideas? Call Deborah at 250-497-5384.
Okanagan Falls PAC Update
"Wishes for Health & Happiness in 2015"
Office & 24 hr pager: 250.497.5541
837 Main Street in Okanagan Falls
Laurie Kingsfield
Cell: 250.498.1110
LKingsfield@telus.net
School District No. 53 Report
with Sam Hancheroff
Christmas Events and Activities ~ There was a wealth of Christmas
and winter activities taking place in our schools over the last few
weeks. We hope you had an opportunity to enjoy them.
I attended the Okanagan Falls Elementary concert called “The Night
before Christmas.” Once again our gymnasium was filled with
The Okanagan Falls PAC would like to wish everyone a Happy New
parents, grandparents, and friends. The K-7 students presented a
Year. We hope your Christmas was a wonderful one.
wonderful display of songs and acting. Thank you to our staff and
We would like to thank all the local businesses from Penticton, Apex Principal Ms. McCall for organizing this Christmas activity.
Mountain, and Okanagan Falls, who donated items and/or baskets
for our Annual Basket Raffle during the Okanagan Falls Elementary DISTRICT BASED INITIATIVES
Christmas Concert. Thank you also to the ladies who volunteered their Family Literacy Week is January 24-31. Family Literacy Day will
time to put all the beautiful baskets together. It was a huge success! be at the Cherry Lane Shopping Centre in Penticton on Saturday,
We invite ALL parents to join us for our PAC meetings on the first January 24th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Watch for additional literacy
Tuesday of every month. Our next meeting is Tuesday, January 6th activities within our schools.
with Deborah Rivest, Parent Advisory Council Chair
at 6:30pm in the school library. Free child minding is available. Any Principal Lisa McCall explains the One to One Literacy Program:
questions or ideas? Call Deborah at 250-497-5384.
One to One is a unique children’s literacy program that provided
one-to-one tutoring to children in elementary schools during regular
school hours. Our trained volunteer tutor works with students who are
recommended by their teachers as needing a boost in their literacy
with Samantha James
skills. Typically, each student spends approximately 30 minutes
We are back to school on Monday, January 5th. We have the Health twice a week, in one of our two One to One reading rooms with a
Nurse joining us on Monday, January 12th at 10 am. Storytime with volunteer tutor in an environment where it is okay to take risks, make
Georgia is on Wednesday, January 14th at 9 am. Infant Development mistakes, and learn at their own pace. Thanks to our Okanagan Falls
will be with us on Wednesday, January 21st at 10 am. Our project this Elementary One to One Volunteer Coordinator, Mrs. Sherry Reynolds,
month is Winter.
for her exceptional leadership, recruiting and training expertise. Our
The Okanagan Falls StrongStart Centre is a free drop-in early learning school now has 13 volunteer tutors including: Heather Pearce, Ruell
centre for children 0-5 years of age. We are located in the Okanagan Smith, Jane Mavety, Linda King, Judi Wilson, Karen Washburn,
Falls Elementary School and are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday Brenda Wilkins, Michele Brown, Karen Fenuik, Aubrey Millard, Judy
from 8:30-11:30 am, as well as Tuesday and Thursday from 11:30- Millard, Rose Kleb, and Sherry Reynolds. Congratulations to Heather
2:30 pm during the 2014/2015 school year. For more information, call Pearce on 25 years of One to One reading at Okanagan Falls School!
If you wish to learn more or want to get involved, please contact Ms.
Sam at 250-809-2802.
McCall at lmccall@sd53.bc.ca.
Okanagan Falls StrongStart Centre
OK Mini School
Our M/W/F class is now full. We are currently taking names for a wait
list for a T/Th class. We will not be having a raffle draw this year.
OK Mini School is a licensed preschool for 3 and 4 year olds. We are
located in Room 8 of the Okanagan Falls Elementary School. We offer
a quality preschool program that helps prepare children to become
life long learners. For more information, call 250-497-5576 or email
Bonnie.OKMiniSchool@shaw.ca
Okanagan Falls Out of School Care
Career Programs ~ YES 2 IT in the Classroom will return from
January 19-23. We encourage parents and the public to take the
opportunity to visit the program when it is in their community.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Completion Rates: We have made improvements in our six-year
completion rates. This informs us of the percentage of students
who enter grade 8 in our system and complete the requirements for
a Dogwood diploma within 6 years. Our completion rate for 201314 was 79%, which is an increase from the previous year’s 76%.
Unfortunately, this figure does not take into consideration students
who have left BC or students who were on a school completion
certificate program. The completion rates of female students in our
district improved significantly from 77% to 83%, while males have
remained at 75% from the previous year. We are very proud that the
completion rates for Aboriginal students was 75%, an increase from
67%. We are hopeful that this trend will continue.
Our licensed program provides a safe and caring environment for
children aged 5 - 12 years. We offer care from 2:25 - 5:30 pm on days
when school is in session. We offer full-time care and accept parttime and drop-in, if space is available. Pre-registration is required
before children can attend the program. We are located in Room 8 of
the Okanagan Falls Elementary School. For more information, please For more information, contact Sam Hancheroff, Vice-chair, School
phone 250-809-7322 or email to Bonnie.OKMiniSchool@shaw.ca.
District No. 53, School Trustee for Okanagan Falls, at 250-497-5878.
Page 14
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Free Wireless Internet!
www.orl.bc.ca
Kaleden Branch:
101 Linden Avenue - 250-497-8066
Tuesday 1 - 5 pm / Thursday 1 - 8 pm / Friday 1 - 5 pm
Happy New Year~ ~ from Glenda and Tracy at the Kaleden Branch
NOW RECRUITING!
Paid On Call Positions
Now Available!
Call 250.497.8231 or
kaledenfire@shaw.ca
Kaleden Elementary School Success
Cody Thompson (above) was the winner of the Kaleden Library
Gingerbread House Coloring Contest! We had 21 entries for the contest.
Storytime ~ Begins on January 27th for preschoolers. Storytime is
held on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am for children ages 2 to 5 years
old. We will have fun listening to stories, singing songs, playing with
puppets and meeting new friends. For more information, please call
the Kaleden Library at 250-497-8066.
Kids Lego Nite ~ January 30th stop by the library for more information!
Pre-registration is required for this event.
The students at Kaleden Elementary spent the first three weeks of
December focusing on the themes of “Taking Care of Each Other”,
“Doing Your Best for a Better World”, and “The Spirit of Giving”. With
these themes in mind, the school came together once again to collect
and donate items to “Kaleden Cares” food donation initiative.
Being a school of 100 students, the school set a goal each week to try
to donate 100 food items. We kept track of the growing food donations
and tally in our foyer and watching our donations grow. Each week
the students reached and surpassed their goal, feeling a sense of
pride and accomplishment. The Kaleden School students clearly took
our December themes to heart!
OK Falls Branch:
101 - 850 Railway Lane - 250-497-5886
Tuesday 12 - 8 pm / Wednesday 10 am - 4 pm
Friday 10 - 5 pm / Saturday 10 - 2 pm
Happy New Year Everyone! We look forward to another great year!
Family Storytime ~ Resumes on Wednesday, January 21st at
1:30pm. As always, this a free program featuring stories, songs and
crafts. No registration required and everyone is welcome.
Library Lego Night ~ Join us for our first ever Lego night! Because
of a limited supply of Lego, registration is required. Bring your
imaginations and your best Lego building skills. All creations will be
displayed in the library. We also have a limited supply of Duplo for
younger siblings to play with. Please call 250-497-5886 for date and
time of our Lego Night.
Free Wireless & Internet Access Computers ~ Anytime while open.
Library Book Club ~ Anyone interested in a Library Book Club,
please contact Georgia at the library or email at gbruyel@orl.bc.ca.
Snairs Plumbing Services
Qualified
Dedicated
Honest Plumber Bonded with over 30 yrs exp.
No Travell Time charge
10% Discount For Seniors
Stephen Snair
250-488-9430
Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department
KVFD January Tip:
Safety Resolutions for the New Year!
Spring: Fire guard your home.
Summer: Protect yourself from the heat & keep fit.
Fall: Clean your chimney.
Winter: Vehicle maintenance & drive safely.
Every Month: Check your Smoke Alarms!
Piano and Theory Lessons in Kaleden
Members of BC Registered Music Teachers
Dillys Richardson, ARCT
Carmen Leier, ARCT
250-497-5925
778-515-2592
Kaleden Elementary PAC Update
with LeeAnn Thompson, Chair Kaleden PAC
December at Kaleden Elementary School ended with a wonderful
Christmas Concert, performed by many talented children. A huge
thank-you to all the teachers that make this concert so special. Our
Annual Bake/Cupcake Sale at the Christmas Concert was a huge
success, with so many special donations from many families. PAC
would like to say a big thank-you to Jody Guy, who personally baked
over 150 cupcakes for the sale.
This December there was also the school wide Apex Tubing trip.
What a great way to say “Welcome to Christmas Break”! Kids traveled
up by bus and enjoyed a day of tubing, hot dogs and hot chocolate.
Many tired and happy children traveled home after the day’s events.
As the New Year begins, PAC is getting organized for some fun
events! Keep your eyes and ears open. Lobster Fest tickets will be
on sale soon!
SkahaMatters.com
Page 15
January 2015
Recycle Your Christmas Trees
& Your Christmas Lights
Give your Christmas Tree and burnt out Christmas Lights
a second life this holiday season by recycling them at one
of many convenient locations throughout the Regional
District of Okanagan Similkameen.
Burning Christmas Trees create strong smoke due to moisture in
the wood and needles. Fine particulates from smoke have been
linked to respiratory and heart diseases. Any tinsel, fake snow or
ornaments left on the tree will create added pollution when burnt. All
landfills in the Regional District will accept, free of charge up to 500
kg (1,100 lbs), clean natural Christmas Trees free of tinsel, fake snow,
ornaments and lights. The trees will be chipped and given new life as
animal bedding or compost.
Several communities offer seasonal Christmas Tree collection or drop
off programs. Here are a few close to home:
•
For a donation, the Penticton Fire Fighters Local 1399 will
pick up Christmas Trees from December 27 to January 18. All
donations received will go to the BC Professional Fire Fighters
Burn Fund and Muscular Dystrophy charities. Penticton and West
Bench residents can call 250-490-2315 to register for collection.
Residents can also drop off clean natural Christmas Trees at Fire
Hall #2 at 285 Dawson Ave from December 27 to January 31.
•
District of Summerland residents can call the Fire Hall at 250404-4088 or email sfd@summerland.ca to request collection of
their Christmas Trees. For a donation Summerland Secondary
students will be out collecting trees on Sunday, January 4 and
Sunday, January 11. Donations go to the Summerland Secondary
Dry Grad.
•
Town of Oliver residents can drop off Christmas Trees at the
south gate of the Oliver Public Works Yard at 5971 Sawmill Road.
This service will run from December 26 to Friday, January 9. This
program is supported by the local Air Cadets.
Winter Fishing On Skaha Lake
By Larry Martin
Skaha is still producing quality fish. As long as the boat launches are
free of ice and the wind is bearable, it is worth a try. Some fishers will
be using planer boards, which can extend lines as much as 30 meters
to the side of the boat. If you can, visualize a water skier out to the
side of a boat with one or more fishing lines attached to the tow line.
Fishing from a larger boat you will be able to spread several lines out,
but you are still only allowed one line per person. The boards allow
a wide spread away from the boat, as some feel in winter conditions
near surface fish will shy away from a boat. The boat cannot make
sharp turns, so be aware if you are fishing near them. The boards are
usually bright colour, some even have flags attached.
There will be a kid’s ice fishing event held at Yellow Lake on
January 24th. This is a “Learn to Fish” event, so no experience is
necessary. If you have your own gear, you can bring it. There will
be gear available on-site to try and there will be experienced fishers
available to help. There is no charge for this event. Local clubs
from the BC Wildlife Federation in Co-operation with the Freshwater
Fisheries Society, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources
Operations and other groups will be on hand.
For more information, just ask Larry at fs-lemartin@shaw.ca.
Used Christmas lights and all other lighting equipment can also be
recycled for free at the J&C Bottle Depot in Penticton or the T-2
Bottle Depot in Oliver. The Campbell Mountain Landfill and Oliver
Landfill can also accept lighting equipment free of charge. For more
information visit www.lightrecycle.ca.
If you have any questions, please contact the RDOS Solid Waste
Department at 250-490-4129, toll free 1-877-610-3737 ext. 4129,
e-mail info@rdos.bc.ca or visit www.rdos.bc.ca.
Above - Trout caught in Late November in Skaha Lake.
Below - Samples of what a Planer Board looks like. (Photos by Rod Hennig)
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ad sponsored by
Jardin Estate Jewelry & Antiques
Recycling the Elegance of the Past
5221 Hwy 97 Okanagan Falls
250.497.6733
www.jardinantiques.com
OK Fawlz Pawz 'N' Clawz
Flexible Hours & Reasonable Rates
Contact Denise @ 778-515-0464
Central Ridge Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Sylvia Tingson D.V.M.
Open Mon - Fri 9-5 & Sat 9-12
Medicines
- Okanagan Falls
250.497.7808
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Page 16
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Benefits To Building An In-Law Suite
Spotlight on Volunteers!
with Brian Moen, Realtor with Royal LePage Locations West
Like many Canadians today who face the difficult choices of caring for
an aging parent, you may be considering the popular option of adding
or remodelling your home to include an in-law suite. This option is fast
becoming an alternative to a nursing home, and one that may offer a
little more independence to your parent or loved one. Many people
are also frightened by the rising number of abuse and theft statistics
that have been happening in nursing homes, and are looking for a way
to care for their parent without using a nursing home. An in-law suite
can be the perfect option.
For most people though, the hardest issue to overcome is the time
commitment involved in having your loved under your care and in your
home. While you may sincerely want to keep them safe and secure,
and out of a nursing home, you may be forced to ask yourself whether
or not you will be able to give them the time and attention they will
require, especially if their health is in question.
Once you have made the decision to either shop for a home with
an in-law suite, or remodel your existing home to include one, you
may find that this option is a wonderful way to include your loved one
in many decision making projects that have not been involved in for
many years. The in-law suite gives you the assurance that your loved
one is safe and well cared for in your own home, and at the same time
allows you a little freedom to go about your business as well. There
are also other benefits of an in-law suite. Some of these benefits can
include; no daily trips to nursing homes or facilities, in-law suites can
add to the value of your home, enables seniors to be included in family
activities, ensures their safety from possible abuse or neglect, and it
can cost less to build an in-law suite in your home than only one year
of nursing home care.
If you have an aging parent, looking at in-law suites can give you
peace of mind, as well as provide a safe place for them to rest and feel
at home without the sterility of a nursing home.
Whether you are shopping for a home with an existing in-law suite or
plan to build one into your current home, be sure to check all building
codes and zoning by-laws in your area.
Brian
Moen
PRESIDENT’S
GOLD
AWARD
(250) 497-5541
PENTICTON: (250) 493-2244 24 HR. PAGER
FAX:
(250) 497-8449
CELL:
(250) 809-6192
brianmoen@royallepage.ca
www.brianmoen.ca
837 Main Street, P.O. Box 329
Okanagan Falls, BC V0H 1R0
BUS:
Meet The Chahil Family
Paul, Pinkie, Justin and Serena work tirelessly each October to
ensure the kids and families of Kaleden have a wonderful, safe and
Community Halloween Dinner and Dance experience. Paul also has
double duties being the long standing Treasurer for the Kaleden Parks
and Recreation Commission. Thank you Chahil Family!
Volunteers Making A Difference
If there is someone you would like to see honoured in this column,
please call 250-497-8188 or info@okfalls.net.
Johnston Meier
Insurance Agencies Group
For All Your Insurance Needs
5350 9th Avenue
Okanagan Falls
250-497-8739
www.jmins.com
SALES
ACHIEVEMENT
AWARD
REALTOR
Daniel W. Markin - Certified Barber
8-5 Tue-Fri / 9-2 Mon & Sat
New Location - 5208 9th Ave. OK Falls
250-328-3888
Welcome the natural beauty and texture of concrete into your home.
Thank you to St. Andrews Community! Vera Gilbert (on right) representing the
Okanagan Falls Helping Hand is shown accepting the generous donations from the
community of St. Andrews-By-The-Lake. Over 400 pounds was collected! With Vera
in photo above is Brian Moen (on left) of Royal LePage Locations West Realty.
Epicure Selections
Countertops, Sinks, Outdoor Kitchens, Furniture & More
250-488-2798
info@onyxcastings.com
www.onyxcastings.com
Gourmet
Blends &
Quality
Cookwa
re
“Turn everyday meals into gourmet meals!”
Contact Lorraine ~ 250-497-8781 or lharri40@shaw.ca
SkahaMatters.com
Page 17
January 2015
Winter Driving Tips
Thank You Community!
By Myleen Mallach
East Side Salon is pleased to announce that with the help of the
Snow and ice push our driving skills to the limit. Do you know how to community an amount of $200 was raised to support Okanagan Falls
drive properly in winter conditions? The following tips could save you Helping Hands. This was done by way of donating all family hair
cutting funds on Saturday, December 6th from the salon. A warm
from problems when you are out on the road:
•
Maintain a safe following distance. It takes longer to stop on a thank you to all who participated.
slippery road. Look ahead and keep plenty of distance between
you and other cars (at least four seconds).
•
Drop your speed to match road conditions. The posted speed
is the maximum speed under ideal conditions. In winter, it is safer
to drive below the posted speed. No matter how much experience
you have, the way your car will move on snow or ice always has
an element of unpredictability. My dad always told me to stick to
60 km/p in fresh snow for enough momentum to go and enough
control to stop.
•
Watch for black ice. Slow down when approaching possible icy
spots, such as shaded areas and bridges, as these sections of
road freeze sooner than others in cold weather. Watch for “black
ice”, areas of the road with a thin, almost invisible coating of ice,
as it can cause your vehicle to suddenly lose traction, braking and
cornering control.
•
Accelerate and brake slowly. When starting from a stop
on slick roads, start slowly and accelerate gradually to
Chad Wetter (left) of East Side Salon presents a cheque in the amount of $200 to
maintain traction and avoid spinning your wheels. When
Keray Levant (right) of the Okanagan Falls Helping Hands.
stopping, plan well in advance, apply the brakes gently and
slowly add pressure rather than braking suddenly. Pumping
your brakes gently is always a good practice to follow.
•
Avoid sudden moves. Slow down and steer smoothly and
gradually to avoid skidding. Accelerate gently, turn slowly, and
brake carefully and early. Avoid unexpected quick movements
that could put you in a spin. Anticipate turns, stops, and lane
changes well before they occur.
•
Know how to handle a skid. A skid happens when your wheels
slide out of control on a slippery surface and is a result of driving
too fast for road conditions. If you start to skid, ease off the brake
or accelerator, look and steer smoothly in the direction you want
to go. Be careful not to oversteer. If you are on ice and skidding in
a straight line, step on the clutch or shift to neutral.
•
See and be seen. It is critical for drivers to see and be seen
in low light conditions, and when blowing snow impairs visibility.
Always drive with your headlights on.
•
•
•
Be extremely cautious when approaching highway
maintenance vehicles. Maintain a safe following distance
behind snow plows and salt or sand trucks.. These vehicles throw
up snow and spray, making it difficult to see.
Pull over whenever traffic is lined up behind you. This
is probably the single most important and respectful thing
any driver can do, especially in the winter time. If you are
traveling at slower speeds for your own peace of mind, but
see a number of vehicles on your bumper, simply pull over
and let them pass. Many times this may only need to be an
indicator light and a slight deceleration. Winter conditions
and vehicle performaces vary ... respect your fellow drivers.
Practice. Get out and drive in the snow and ice. Know what
your vehicle is capable of and what you are comfortable with.
The more you drive in winter conditions - the better of the winter
driver you’ll be. Young or new drivers should always practice in
an empty snowy parking lot or back road.
Steam Cleaning / Specialty Cleaning
Spot & Stain Removal
MURRAY MILNE Owner/Operator
murraymilne@shaw.ca 250-462-6070
EAST SIDE SALON
439 Panorama Crescent
Just off Eastside Road in Skaha Estates
Happy
New
Year!
Deb and Chad Wetter
Award Winning Master Stylist
eastsidesalon@shaw.ca
778-515-1497
Georgie Anderson
Independent Sales Director
Tuesday - Friday 9am - 7pm
Saturdays 9am - 4pm
A/G Liter Sale On Now!
www.marykay.ca/ganderson
250-497-8391
Michèle’s Flowers & Gardens
Michèle Brown
Weddings Funerals Special Occasions Gardening Services
Fresh guarlands, wreaths, table arrangements, outdoor containers.
All your Christmas needs in one stop! Special orders welcome.
micheleannenbrown@gmail.com
250-493-4299
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Page 18
OKANAGAN FALLS VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS
RECRUIT TRAINING UNDERWAY
Join the team of paid on-call firefighters.
For further information, call us at 250.497.5700 or
stop by the fire hall Wednesday mornings.
OK Falls Heritage & Museum Society
with Marla Wilson
Happy New Year to you all!
The Heritage and Museum Society congratulate the Women’s Institute
in the building of the Band Shell. The town of Okanagan Falls has
grown and developed over the last 93 years with the help and hard
work of the Women’s Institute. The Heritage and Museum Society is
an earlier accomplishment of the WI. Well Done Ladies!!!
With all the holiday rush behind us, the Heritage and Museum Society
will be looking at some of the upgrading needed in the Bassett House
and Museum. A new roof has replaced the old one on the Museum
office. A few big limbs came off the trees during the wind storm in
early December, but it just opened the tree a bit more.
The Thriftee Shop continues to fill the needs of some in the community.
Volunteer members joined the Heritage members for our Christmas
Dinner at the Hotel. Although there are some people in the community
who still leave garbage at the shop when it is closed, for the most part,
people are wonderful about keeping within our request for only clean,
gently used clothing. We simply do not have the space to carry house
wares, tools, toys, etc.
Thank you again to the residents of Okanagan Falls for your support
of the Heritage and Museum Society and Thriftee Shop.
“The HUB” in Kaleden
The Community of Kaleden is coming together to help those in need.
Whether you may need assistance or would like to volunteer to help
your neighbour, The HUB is a great new way to know and respond to
those needs within the Kaleden area. From meals provided in times
of illness or crisis, to welcoming new neighbours to Kaleden, to help
with small projects and maintenance, to compassionate care and local
transportation, to women networking and even confidential prayer ...
The HUB is Kaleden’s opportunity to take care of our neighbours.
Kaleden Cares would like to thank all who contributed to the Christmas
Hampers Program. A special thank you to Lakeview General Store,
the staff and students of Kaleden Elementary School, Kaleden Library
and the Kaleden Community Church for their enthusiastic participation
in this year’s program. “Thank you for caring!”
Look for our poster around Kaleden and call to either receive help or
volunteer when and where you can. The HUB contacts are:
•
Les Clarke ~ 250-497-5995 or kalgarden@shaw.ca
Pastor of Kaleden Community Church
•
Heather Rose ~ 250-770-7692 or hrose@summer.com
Principal of Kaleden Elementary School
•
Judith King ~ 250-497-6985 or judithking@shaw.ca
Kaleden Community Member
The HUB is a work in progress ... neighbours helping neighbours in
and around Kaleden, St. Andrews and Twin Lakes. We look forward to
hearing from you and growing this community service together.
K&E PLUMBING
Call for your all your winterization needs!
250-809-7019
Commercial & Residential Plumbing
Hot Water Tanks
Construction, Renovations & Service Work
Red Sealed Certified / B - Gasfitter Certified
Insured & Bonded / Gas Contractor
2012 McLean Creek Rd Chardonnay
Double Gold & Best in Class
Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition 2014
92 Points
Beppi Crosariol, Globe & Mail
91 Points
The Chef & The Grape
Become part of the Family
when you join MFV Wine Club!
~ 4 bottles of wine delivered 3 times per year right to your door
~ 10% discount on wine purchased online or in our tasting room
Tasting Room open
by appointment
Call 250.497.8553
~ Complimentary wine tastings for you and up to 3 friends
~ Access to new release & limited release wines & more!
"crafting single vineyard wines of excellence”
T 250.497.8553 | 4287 McLean Creek Rd, OK Falls BC | wineclub@mfvwines.com
SkahaMatters.com
Page 19
January 2015
Electoral Area “D-1” Official
Community Plan Update
Kaleden Museum ~ A History Tid Bit
with Meredith King
Jim Ritchie envisioned Kaleden as a major service centre for the mines
and small communities scattered along the forty ninth parallel. In 1911,
he took the next step in realizing that dream when he contracted the
construction of the Kaleden Hotel.
This was an amazing challenge to Harry Tomlin, the general contractor
from Summerland, who was in charge. The concrete for the shell of
the building was mixed on site and laboriously pushed in wheelbarrows
along scaffolding which encircled the building, going ever higher as
the work progressed, until finally all four stories were completed.
The beginning building stage of the Kaleden Hotel in 1911. The concrete was mixed
on site and brought by wheelbarrow along scaffolding to build the four stories.
The hotel was a grand establishment. It had it’s own power plant,
using a water driven generator, running water, indoor plumbing, a
huge commercial kitchen, two dining rooms and a grand rotunda entry
with a huge fireplace. This was a stark contrast to the surrounding
living accommodations, which consisted mostly of tents.
Each luxurious room had electricity, it’s own ensuite bath with hot and
cold running water, as well as an outdoor sleeping porch for those
warm evenings.
The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS)
recently launched a project to review and update the
Kaleden - Apex Official Community Plan (OCP) for
Electoral Area “D-1”. Originally adopted in 1999, the Area “D-1” OCP
was reformatted and updated in 2008, but without any substantive
changes to the original plan.
“It’s one of the most important planning documents for us,” says Tom
Siddon, Electoral Area “D” Director; “not only does it establish policies
around development and land use, it will also give direction to other
plans, including capital plans, transportation strategies and the like.”
The revised plan will maintain the pieces of the old OCP that have
worked well, but will address the changes the area has experienced
since 1999 and the regional plans that have been developed since
then, including the South Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy.
The OCP update will be a community-driven process. “It’s a great
opportunity for residents to get involved and engaged in their
community,” says Siddon, “and to help shape it’s future.” The RDOS
planning team will be looking to engage broadly with residents,
business owners, property owners and other stakeholders. The RDOS
also brought in an experienced consultant team to help support our
staff with this project.
The Area “D-1” OCP update will get underway in earnest in the New
Year with the establishment of a Citizens’ Committee to help review
materials, provide input, and reach out to the area residents. The
volunteer advisory group is currently being recruited and will be made
up of residents from across the electoral area representing each of the
main communities (Kaleden, Twin Lakes, St. Andrews, Apex).
The project is expected to be completed by winter 2015. The RDOS
will be announcing Citizens Committee membership in the New Year
and will also be announcing the date for the first project open house to
be taking place in Kaleden.
For more information please contact Tom Siddon, Director of Electoral
Area “D”, at tsiddon@rdos.bc.ca or 250.809.2548. You can also
visit the RDOS website at www.rdos.bc.ca, visit the project website
at www.D-1update.ca, or contact Evelyn Riechert at the RDOS at
eriechert@rdos.bc.ca, 250.492.0237.
What’s an Official Community Plan (OCP)? An OCP is a provincially mandated regulatory
document that provides policies on a broad range of topics including land-use, transportation,
housing, parks and infrastructure. OCPs designate land for specific purposes, like commercial/
retail, residential, park, industrial. Local governments use OCPs to help guide and support
decision-making on a number of important community matters including economic development,
transportation, recreation, environmental protection, and more.
Gluten Free Available
Dine In Anytime
Wedgie’s Pizza &
Carole’s Pasta Deli
Winter Hours:
Tue/Wed/Thur - 11-2 & 4-8
Fri - 11-2 & 4-9 / Sat - 4-9
The formal dining room at the 1912 Kaleden Hotel.
There were two dining rooms. A formal one with linen tablecloths,
china dishes and silver cutlery serving the travelling public. A second,
more utilitarian dining room met the needs of the many single men
working in the community. The hotel also had a large garden planted
on the slopes below Pine Street. It produced flowers and fresh
vegetables for the kitchen of the hotel.
What a major addition to such a small village!
Join us next month, as we share stories and facts down the historical
path and building of our community of Kaleden. To donate an item to
the Kaleden Museum, please contact Meredith at 250-497-6995.
Sun 4-7 / Closed Mondays
Fresh Made Pastas & Sauces
Vacuum Sealed ~ Just Cook & Serve!
5210 9th Ave (Hwy 97), Okanagan Falls
250.473.9132
p. 250.762.7722 | f. 250.762.2232
toll free 877.311.7722
service@okanaganofficesystems.com
523 Lawrence Avenue, Kelowna
“Serving all your Office Equipment and Stationary needs”
January 2015
Page 20
Okanagan Falls Women’s Institute
with Betty Lynch
Oh, dear reader, I know you are saying to yourself, “another
meaningless New Year wish?”, but Listen Up! This will be a very
unique year, because for the first time in history, TA-DA ... Okanagan
Falls will have its very own Bandshell, don’t you know? This, of course,
could not have happened without y’all helping along the way. So, when
I wish you the very Happiest of the New Year 2015, it is with gratitude.
Now, we Women of the Institute are always busy. We have held our
AGM and election of officers and they are, by acclamation: President Thelma Detjen; Secretary - Diane Huey; and Treasurer - Pat Diewold.
We also never let an opportunity go by to party it up, so we had such
a fun Christmas Luncheon with members, past and present, relating
stories of the past, the present, and even the future. The future being
2015 and construction beginning in Centennial Park. So, to the future,
your health and happiness.
“For Home And Country”, Betty Lynch
The Women’s Institute meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month,
September - June, at 7 pm in the Club Room of the Community Centre.
For more information, please call Thelma Detjen at 250-497-5255.
Meet new people. Get out and have FUN!
Become a member of the OK Falls Seniors Centre!
Call Audree 250-497-5572 or
Janet at 250-497-5521
SkahaMatters.com
Okanagan Falls Seniors Activity Centre
with Dianna Stewart
WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY NEW YEAR!
May you find magic in 2015!
The year starts for us with our annual get together New Year’s Eve.
We play some music, break off into groups to play games of our choice,
have some laughs and eat and chat about whatever comes to mind.
On January 3rd, we will be having our regular Pancake Breakfast
from 8-10 am with the family of Don Sikorski paying for everyone who
attends, in memory of Don who we lost a couple of weeks ago.
The General Meeting on Monday, January 5th at 1:00 will see
the new executive for 2015 installed. They are: President - Audree
Sikorski; Vice President - Gretha Jensen; 2nd Vice - Margaret
Rosenburg; Secretary - Janet Laczo; Treasurer - Irene Fead. The
Board Members are; Shirley O’Conner, Vi Creasey, Peter Jensen,
Merrell Cox, Jackie Rafuse, and Margaret Baldwin. We wish them all
well in their future endeavors on behalf of the Seniors Centre.
If you have any questions or need information, please phone
Audree Sikorski at 250-497-5572 or Janet Laczo at 250-497-5521.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
General Meeting ~ Monday, Jan 5th (1:00)
Pancake Breakfast ~ Saturday, Jan 3rd (8:00-10:00)
Jam Session ~ Sunday, Jan 11th (1:00)
Drop In Bingo ~ Saturday, Jan 17th (1:00)
Don’t forget Tuesday Bingo (1st 3 Tuesdays at 1:00)
Exercise Classes ~ Tuesdays (9:30)
Scrabble ~ Thursdays (10:00-12:00)
Wednesday & Friday Music & Coffee (9:00)
Thursday Bridge (1:00) & Crib (7:00)
Carpet Bowling Wednesday Afternoons (1:00)
Okanagan-Similkameen Transit
The Okanagan Falls Bandshell is moving ahead in the New Year!
Above: The Women’s Institute Members and Economic Development Coordinator
John Powell at the Bandshell site with their “Building Permit and Property Address”.
Missing in the photo above is Ted Lynch, an honorary member of the Womens’
Institute, as is John Powell, both of whom have been invaluable. Thank you for your
dedication and hard work on this community project!
Service Change
Effective January 19, 2015
92 Different Flavours of Cheesecakes
20 Okanagan Falls –
new route along Eastside Road
(& always adding more!)
Available in 4 Different Sizes
Gluten Free Items / Cookies / Loaves / Desserts
Appetizers / Assorted Platters
250.809.7038
cheesecakesbylisa@hotmail.com
Find us on Facebook!
21 OK Falls Local –
new route serving Okanagan Falls
Over 118 Different Cake Pans Available
For Birthdays, Holidays & Weddings.
Call or email for more information.
Free service from January 19
to February 6, 2015 on routes
20 and 21.
Kaleden Community Women’s Weekly Drop-in
Wednesdays from 1-4 pm
Meet at the Kaleden Community Church
Please Note: We will begin again on January 7th.
Come for the afternoon or just drop by for coffee.
Meet & connect with other ladies in your community.
Enjoy friendly conversation, games & crafts.
Regional District of
Okanagan-Similkameen
4220
(Some instruction available on quilting, knitting, crocheting & card making.)
Any Questions? Call Fran at 250-497-7850. No children please.
If you need a ride, please call Meredith at 250-497-6995.
Transit Info 250·492·5602 • www.bctransit.com
SkahaMatters.com
Page 21
January 2015
Sharon’s Care Services
for seniors
Okanagan Falls
Helping Hand Update
with Keray Levant, Helping Hand Chair
Transportation, Personal Care, Companionship,
Respite & Light Housekeeping Duties
Contact Sharon at 250.770.0497
thompson298@hotmail.com
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #227
with Barbara Few
The Helping Hand Food Hampers and Christmas
Toys were distributed on Saturday, December
20th. We were able to assist a combination of 92
single’s, couples and families from Skaha Estates
to Vaseaux Lake. We thank all the individuals and many businesses,
who through their generous donations, helped make this possible.
If you have any questions or concerns anytime of the year, our contact
number is 250-486-2767. Please leave a message and your call will
be returned as soon as possible.
Well, Christmas is behind us and now we look forward to 2015, and
we start by welcoming it in with our New Year Party on January 1st.
This party starts at 2 pm and goes on until 8 pm. You and your friends
will be entertained by TERRI BREMNER and JEFF BODNER as Elvis.
There will be raffles and draws, as well as a cold dinner cooked by a
chef. Come and enjoy yourselves, let your hair down, and start 2015
off right for only $10.
Also coming up in January is ROBBI BURNS NIGHT on Saturday,
January 17th, with the SUMMERLAND PIPE & DRUM BAND and to
complete the entertainment will be CINDY DOUCETTE. No Scottish
celebration would be right without haggis, which will be served with
supper. This will start at 6:30 pm after the Meat Draw.
The sports will resume on the week commencing January 5th.
Dates to Remember:
Mondays ~ Crib at 1pm
Tuesday & Thursday Afternoons ~ Shuffleboard at 1pm
Wednesday Nights ~ League Darts at 7pm
Fridays & Saturdays ~ Meat Draws at 5pm
Saturdays ~ Drop-in Darts & Pool at 1pm
Sundays ~ Fun Sunday with Hotdogs, Horse Racing & more at 1pm
Tuesday, January 20th ~ General Meeting at 7pm
Thanks to the volunteers out front of the IGA in Okanagan Falls on Saturday,
December 6th for the Annual “Fill the Van” for the Helping Hand Day. Thanks to all
that came out, donated, and supported this vital community service group. 92 homes
were enriched this Holiday season as a result. (Photo courtesy of Sue Chaudry)
KALEDEN COMMUNITY CHOIR
Happy New Year!
Choir practices begin again in January.
Don’t worry about whether you can sing or not.
Come join us - just for fun!
For dates and times, please call Meredith at 250-497-6995.
www.uee.com
All the best in the year ahead!
Main Street Consignments
924 Main Street, Okanagan Falls
Happy New Year
on behalf
of the
Providence
family.
An Electrical Solutions Company
Engineering and manufacturer of electrical apparatus for
Mining, Hydroelectric Power Plants, Transportation, and
Commercial & Industrial applications. We pride ourselves
on delivering the highest quality electrical equipment to
customers worldwide.
PENTICTON CHAPEL - 250.492.0713
SUMMERLAND CHAPEL - 250.494.7752
Power Up! With Unit Electrical Engineering Ltd.
www.providencefuneralhomes.com
1406 Maple Street, Okanagan Falls
250-497-8488
250.497.5254
Ron & Taraleigh Crooker
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Page 22
Local Church Directory
Kaleden Community Church
Family Worship ~ Sundays at 10:00 am
443 Lakehill Rd, Kaleden / Phone: 250-497-5995
Pastor Les Clarke. Church email: kalgarden@shaw.ca
www.kaledencommunitychurch.org - for up to date event info
Credible Cremation Services Ltd.
Sensible Prices for Practical People - At need / Pre need.
Call Lesley, our own Senior Owner & Director
Total - Basic Cremation ... No Hidden Costs
$990.00 + taxes (Penticton area)
$1190.00 + taxes (Kelowna area)
250.493.3912
(24 hrs)
101-596 Martin St, Penticton, BC V2A 5L4
www.crediblecremation.com
Kaleden Community Church would like to thank Ken and Margaret
BC Lic# 49382
Hayter for the use of Linden Garden’s for our Christmas Tales
To all - A Healthy, Happy and Safe New Year!
production. It was a most enjoyable evening that would not have
happened without the support of Linden Gardens, our group of
Resolve To Make Those Pre-Arrangements
“sponsors”, Kaleden Restaurant and everyone else who provided
‘appies’ and cheesecakes. Thanks to Matt and crew for the sound,
with Lesley Luff of Credible Cremation Services Ltd.
the Kaleden Community Choir and all others who helped to make the
(Resident of Okanagan Falls)
evening a delightful way to usher in the Christmas season. Special
Credible Cremation Services Ltd. was created to offer families
thanks to Russ Rosen, Justyn Rees and the band for an evening of
who are faced with the death of a loved one, the choice of a simple
music and story. We look forward to your next visit with us!
and reasonably priced direct cremation without the pressure of
To Mexico With Love 2015 is a humanitarian service trip to Mexico. making important decisions at a time of extreme grief. Making those
We will be travelling to Baja, Mexico during the School Spring Break arrangements ahead of time only makes good sense. If not attended
(March 16-28) and will be building homes, helping with a community to now, then those decisions fall upon someone else to deal with.
movie night and other service projects. For those of you who are Decisions made in haste can often lead to emotional over-spending.
not familiar with our group, To Mexico With Love 2015, is a group of Pre-arranging allows time for sensible choices to be made, without
adults whose desire is to provide opportunities for youth to experience any pressure. All one has to do, is to pick up the phone and call
serving the poor and underprivileged. We partner with “LiveDifferent” Lesley, Owner and Licensed Funeral Director at (250) 493-3912.
and their ‘Build Program’ to provide this life changing experience for Arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home or at
leaders and youth alike.
our facility.
We have two main fundraisers which contribute to the cost of our trip.
$ 990.00 + taxes - Penticton and area (at need or pre-need)
One is the ongoing collection of bottles, cans and other refundable
$1190.00 + taxes - Kelowna and area (at need or pre-need)
recyclables, which can be dropped off at our collection site at 434
24 hour personal door to door service.
Lakehill Road (in Church parking lot). Let me say a BIG thank you to
Give your family the best gift of all. Make your final
all who have contributed this year for with your generous donations
arrangements ahead of time, so they do not have to.
we have so far collected enough funds to cover the cost of one of
the three houses we will be building in March. THANK YOU! The
second fundraiser is our annual Spaghetti Dinner at the community
hall. Please see details below:
To Mexico With Love 2015 Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
Saturday, February 7th at 6 pm at the Kaleden Community Hall
$10 adults / $5 children (12 & under) / Raffle Baskets - Tix .50 each
For more info or to purchase your tickets, call Les at 250-497-6323
or email newby56ca@gmail.com
Okanagan Falls Community Church
Sunday Worship ~ 10:00 am & 6:00 pm
1356 McLean Creek Rd, OK Falls / Office: 250-497-5131
Pastor Ron Crooker ~ Come join us in celebrating God’s Love!
Mark Pankratz
250-488-1568
Experience the Difference
South Country Realty
www.MarkPankratz.com
Got a snowman for hire? Advertise him here.
Okanagan Falls United Church
Sunday Service ~ 9:30 - 10:30 am
Children are welcome! Coffee and social time to follow service.
1108 Willow St, OK Falls / For more info, call 250-497-1171 or visit us
at okfallsuc.shawwebspace.ca. New Minister is Wade Lipton.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Service
Sunday Mass ~ 11:30 am
1039 Willow St, OK Falls / Administrator - Father Neil
Okanagan Falls Contact: Lorraine Harrison - 250-497-8781
St. Barbara’s Anglican Church
Sunday Service ~ 9:30 am for 3 Sundays of the month.
The 4th Sunday of the month Service will be at 1 pm.
Coffee and social time after the Church Service.
1039 Willow St, OK Falls / Incumbent Rev. Rick Paulin - 250-494-0704
www.MomentsUnderFrame.com
SkahaMatters.com
Page 23
January 2015
Flowers or Fish Heads?
Flowers to the
Kaleden Family Restaurant
for 40 years of service!
Send yours to skahamatters@telus.net
(Please Note: Some discretion on content inclusion may be involved.)
Flowers to the people who so kindly cleared our driveway while Ross
was in the hospital having surgery. It was greatly appreciated!
~ from Jean Sanford of Kaleden
Flowers to Kaleden residents who stepped up and helped me after I
broke my leg. Thank you for all the delicious meals and help our family
has received! Kaleden truly is an amazing community!
~ from Subrina Montieth of Kaleden
Flowers to Dwayne Lutz for plowing in front of the Maple street postal
boxes. It was wonderful that I didn’t have to park right on the road and
stomp my way thru the snow with the mail. It was so kind to plow it for
everyone. ~ from Carol of Okanagan Falls
In May of 1974, Floss and Dave
Meller purchased a gas station
and 18-seat diner on Highway
97 in Kaleden. A few years later
the pumps were taken out and
the restaurant expanded into 52
seats, with a 50-person banquet
room, a 16-seat patio area, along
with a catering business.
While Dave and Floss have pretty
much handed over the business
to their children (Jeremy, Jason
Above - Jeremy Meller & his son Ryder. and Marian), Floss can still be
Below - The Old Kaleden Service Station found baking her deliscious pies
daily. Their grandchildren also
work in the restaurant too, being
Nyah, Chantelle and Kaitlyn.
Over the years, the atmosphere
has remained cozy, homey and
friendly. And, this is the now the
oldest family-owned restaurant in
the valley. Congratulations!
Thank you for your dedication and
hard work over the years. Your
business is greatly appreciated!
Flowers to John and Brian for replacing the burnt out light bulbs on
the 1912 Hotel Kaleden. It looks very festive indeed.
~ from Kim Denis of Kaleden
Flowers to the gentleman who found and cleaned a pair of black
prescription glasses near the Okanagan Falls School and turned them
into the Okanagan Falls Parks & Recreation office to be claimed by
their owner. If these glasses belong to you, please call 250-497-8188.
~ from Janet Black of Okanagan Falls Parks & Rec
Flowers to Chris (Volunteer Fire Fighter and Rescue) for voluntarily
coming out of his house to offer to help me, when he saw me parked in
the snow on the night of November 25th. (That was the night when we
had the first dreadful snowfall of the season.) He not only assisted me,
but drove me to my house in his vehicle and gave my husband a lift
back to where I had parked the car. More than an act of kindness for
which both my husband and I are grateful. ~ from June Wysiekierski
Fish Heads to whoever is responsible for making the channel pathway
almost unwalkable. By “channel pathway”, I mean the paths either
side of the river channel from OK Falls Provincial Park to Vaseux
Lake. The paths are alongside both sides of the channel going south
to Vaseux Lake and are there for flood control.
In the summer, these paths are frequented by many tourists. It was
fine for walking, riding a bicycle, or for pushing a stroller, until some
clueless person decided to raise the pathway, and instead of native
shrubs and grasses, there are now huge chunks of rocks that have
to be negotiated to walk over and around ... making the walk the
opposite of pleasure. There will be a lot of unhappy tourists next year
who will come here expecting to enjoy the surrounding area and who
will travel by bike on the pathway to and from Vaseux Lake, as well
as walkers. It is also preventing local people from enjoying the walks
along the channel all year round.
~ from June Wysiekierski
Okanagan Falls Community Christmas Event was held on Saturday, December 6th
from 7-9pm. Thanks again to Stan Maber for organizing this annual event this year.
Many thanks to all the volunteers and many local businesses who donated towards
this festive community gathering. (Photo courtesy of Sue Chaudry)
H&M Thriftee Shop
H&M THRIFTEE SHOP
Open Tue/Wed & Fri/Sat from 10-3
250-486-6371
Accepting Clean & Gently Used
Clothing & Accessories
Okanagan Falls Heritage and Museum Place - 1145 Main Street
Quick Facts: 3300 copies are printed and distributed each
month. All residents and businesses in Kaleden, Heritage
Hills, Okanagan Falls, Skaha Estates, St. Andrews, and
Twin Lakes receive an issue via Canada Post on the last
business day of each month. 35 locations also carry copies.
Scan QR Code to
the left with your
smart phone and
read any issue of
Skaha Matters.
Fish Heads to whomever feels it’s okay to use my ‘new to me’ vehicle
as a parts car for yourself! ~ from Kim Steeves Please Note: No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of
Fish Heads to the people who vandalized the storage units and garden the publisher. No liability is accepted for any loss or damage resulting from the use of
shed at the Heritage Society. Locks were cut off and the doors to the this publication. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement. All
units just left standing open. What reason did you have to do that? authors/advertisers are provided with a proof of their submission and their final approval
What a waste of time and destruction! ~ from the Heritage Society must be in place in order to be published. © 2014 Okanagan Matters Publications.
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
!
iendly
mily Fr
a
F
w
o
N
Basket of Fries
Onion Rings
Soup of the Day
French Onion Soup
Chicken Fingers
Snake Bits
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Ye Olde Welcome Inn Menu
Eat In or Take Out
Appetizers
Salads
Served with grilled garlic toast ..................................... $7.25
12 jalapeno stuffed chicken pieces ............................. $8.95
served with veggies and dip
Dry Boneless
Garlic Ribs
Calamari
Veggie Platter
Veggie Platter
10 ounces of delight! ........................................................ $8.95
served with veggies and dip
Munchie Basket
Deep fried chicken wings, chicken strips, ............... $11.95
shrimp, zucchini, onion rings, and jalapeno
stuffed chicken served with fries and dip
Served with Pita Bread & Tsatziki .................................. $8.95
With a meal ......................................................................... $4.85
Small ...................................................................................... $5.25
Large ...................................................................................... $6.95
Caesar Salad
With a meal .......................................................................... $5.50
Small served with grilled Garlic Toast ......................... $7.25
Large served with grilled Garlic Toast ......................... $8.95
Greek Salad
Chicken Caesar
mmmmmmmmmm Feta Cheese ................................ $9.95
Salmon Casesar
SMALL Carrots and celery with dip ............................ $4.50
LARGE Carrots, celery, cucumber, radishes .............. $8.95
mushrooms, and green peppers with dip
Our Dips: Ranch, Plum Sauce, Honey Garlic, Honey Mustard, Sour Cream,
Teriyaki, Blue Cheese, BBQ, Hot and Inferno.
Classic Caesar salad with a grilled .............................. $11.95
chicken breast and garlic toast
Classic Caesar salad with wild ..................................... $11.95
BC Salmon and garlic toast
Chicken Wings and Sautéed Prawns
10 items: $8.95 20 items: $16.95 30 items: $25.95
40 items: $33.95 50 items: $42.95
Non-alcoholic Beverages: Coffee, Tea, Milk, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, 7-Up, Scweppes
Ginger Ale or Tonic Water, Mott’s Clamato Juice, Lipton Ice Tea or Cranberry Juice,
Soda Water, Sun-Ryoe Orange Juice, herbal tea, bottled water and sparkling water
Burgers
Fish & Chips
All burgers come on a fresh Kaiser roll with lettuce, pickle, tomato, onion
(fresh or sautéed) and your choice of fries, perogies or salad.
Our Famous Ye Olde Beer Battered Cod
Also available grilled, with lemon pepper
Our own freshly grilled 7 oz. patty ............................... $9.95
All Day Breakfast
Real Alberta Buffalo!! ..................................................... $10.95
More than 1/2 a pound of spicy feast ....................... $11.95
Ye Olde Breakfast
A boneless, skinless 6 oz. breast of chicken ........... $10.95
Steak and Eggs
A meatless patty, dressed to please! ......................... $10.95
Wild BC Salmon ............................................................... $11.95
English Style beer battered cod ................................. $11.95
Add mozza, cheddar, 2 strips of bacon or sautéed mushrooms: $1.39 each
1 Piece: ....................................... $9.95
2 Pieces: ................................... $12.95
2 eggs, 4 pieces of bacon, our own hash .................. $11.95
browns, toast and jam
A grilled 6 oz. aged New York Steak, 2 eggs, ......... $13.95
toast and homemade hash browns. Add
sautéed mushrooms and onions for only $1.39
We also host group gatherings, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas
parties, etc. Let us help you make that next special moment memorable!
Entrées
Steak, Seafood and Ribs
All entrées include your choice of our home fries, perogies or salad with
your choice of dressing.
Add sautéed mushrooms and onions for only $1.39!
Our spicy medieval beef patty, baked ...................... $11.95
potato or home fries, garlic toast and salad
Loaded with bacon, lettuce and tomato .................... $9.95
on toasted white or brown bread
New York Steak
A grilled 6 oz. aged center cut New York Steak, ..... $13.95
baked potato or home fries, garlic toast and salad
Triple Decker
One big sandwich with bacon, ham and ................... $9.95
tomato
Steak & Prawns
Hot Roast Beef
This sandwich has lean roast beef piled high ........ $10.95
and smothered in our own gravy
Our great aged center cut New York Steak .............. $16.95
with the addition of 5 sautéed prawns, plus
baked potato or home fries, garlic toast and salad
Steak & Lobster
A grilled 6 oz. aged center cut New York Steak ...... $20.95
with a 6 1/2 oz. lobster tail, baked potato or
home fries and garlic toast
Chicken & Ribs
Half rack of ribs (8 oz.) and a grilled 6 oz. .................. $16.95
chicken breast, baked potato or home fries,
garlic toast and salad
Rack of Ribs
A full rack of pork ribs with baked potato ............... $16.95
or home fries, garlic toast and salad.
Served with your choice of BBQ, Honey Mustard,
Honey Garlic, Teriyaki Sauce or Lemon Pepper
2 Lobster Tails
TWO lobster tails, baked potato or home fries ..... $26.95
garlic toast and garden salad
On white, brown or rye bread ....................................... $8.95
Ukrainian Perogies With sautéed onions, bacon bits and ....................... $10.95
garden salad
Baron of Beef Dip
Our own roast beef, served au jus with .................. $10.95
horseradish on the side
Reuben Sandwich Fresh Corned Beef, sauerkraut and Swiss ............... $10.95
cheese on grilled Winnipeg rye bread
Bowl of Chili
So good, you’ll eat the bowl! ....................................... $10.95
Served in a bread bowl with salad
9 Scenic Kms
South From
Okanagan Falls
Ye Olde Welcome Inn
Family Friendly ~ All Ages Welcome!
250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Hwy 97 Gallagher Lake
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Chef in until
10 pm Every Day
Including Holidays
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Medieval Steak
Grilled Cheese
The BLT
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Inn Burger
Buffalo Burger
Medieval Burger
Chicken Burger
Veggie Burger
BC Salmon Burger
Ye Olde Fish Burger
iendly!
Garden Salad
Great on a chilly day .......................................................... $5.25
Served with dip and a basket of fries ........................ $10.95
mily Fr
Please ask server for your favourite dressing.
Enough for 2 ......................................................................... $4.50
A basket full of our flavour .............................................. $4.95
Now Fa
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
Reservations Recommended Ph. 250-498-8840
SkahaMatters.com
January 2015
Page 24