17 FACES & the stories behind them - STORIES THAT INSPIRE - 16 Flights Publishing House
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Dr. George Proudfoot
Veterinarian
17 FACES
& the stories
behind them
STORIES PUTTING A FACE TO
THAT INSPIRE THE ORGANIZATIONS
Success from one industry
to the next IN OUR COMMUNITY
Editor’s Letter
You’ll be inspired as you read too want to live in Penticton
about the people in the next 35 and be part of the magic. To
pages of this magazine. support the growth, realtor Ale
Morales can help you find a
All are leaders in their respective home (page 24), Cody Baker of
fields, whether it be veterinary SunOka Home Inspections can
medicine, winemaking, art, check it out before you move
interior design and construction, in (page 08), interior designer
law, senior care, cannabis, solar Gabriella Milsom-Vaisler can
energy, funeral services, real help you make it functional and
estate, home inspections, resort beautiful (page 18), Brandon
accommodation, landscaping, Messier of Messier’s Concrete
automotive or wealth and Landscape would be a good
management. choice to make your outdoor
living space pop (page 04) and
Interviewing each and every Landon Aldridge of SkyFire
one of them reinforced what I’ve Energy could even put solar
known for decades -- Penticton panels on the roof (page 33).
is a special place. A place where
the vibrant business community To top it off, Upper Bench Winery
YOUR STORY
supports and shapes society and and Creamery (page 28) is
vice versa. making the wines you can sip
and the cheeses you can nibble
Yes, the city has a spectacular on the patio. All the other leaders,
IS OUR BUSINESS
location sandwiched between businesses and organizations
Okanagan and Skaha lakes profiled in these pages also
and nestled in mountains with contribute to the fabric of
enviable weather. But, it’s the Penticton in their own special way.
people, businesses, government,
organizations, institutions and After all, as I’ve already said,
community groups that make Penticton is a special place.
Penticton a community. A
community with an outstanding
standard of living and quality
ARE YOU READY TO TELL Let’s Connect
of life full of opportunities,
recreation and amenities. We
YOUR STORY? all know why we live here. And
others want a piece of the action.
That’s why as people reflect on Steve MacNaull
NowMediaGroup.ca (250) 862 8010 their lives in other cities, some Editor and journalist,
come to the conclusion they NowMedia Group
Divisions of FACES OF PENTICTON 1
Table of Contents
Ale Morales
Real Estate
Corporation
ALE
MORALES
LANDSCAPING 04
SENIOR CARE 06
Vol 2. HOME INSPECTIONS 08
CANNABIS 10
AUTOMOTIVE 12
WEALTH MANAGEMENT 14
FACES OF PENTICTON
2021 FUNERAL SERVICES 16
INTERIOR DESIGN AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT 18
PUBLISHER
16 Flights Publishing House FEMALE ENTREPRENEURSHIP 20
A division of NowMedia Group
LAW 23
MANAGING EDITOR
Jim Csek REAL ESTATE 24
CONTRIBUTORS VETERINARY MEDICINE 26
Taylor Siemens
WINE 28
Steve MacNaull
Ellen Schwenkedel
ART 30
Andrew Nash
Laina Burton SOLAR POWER 33
Taylor Field
Sydney Baerg RESORT + CONFERENCES 34
Copyright © 16Flights Publishing House STORYTELLING 36
2 FACES OF PENTICTON
THE FACE OF LANDSCAPING
“If you need something outside the
house done, call me. I enjoy being
versatile and fulfilling a client’s vision.
That means basically everything
concrete and everything landscaping”
Messier’s Concrete
and Landscaping
BRANDON MESSIER
B randon Messier’s
superpower is concrete
and landscaping diversity. “I
turf; irrigation; and recycled
glass landscaping.
to be their go-to outdoors
guy on all sizes and types
of landscape projects,” says
pride myself on being your Yes, that’s right, landscape Brandon. “It’s all about doing
one-stop landscaper,” says glass. The recycled glass rocks good work and providing good
Brandon with a laugh. “If you can range in size from three- customer service. I don’t jump
need something outside the quarter inch, gravel-sized around from job to job. I stay
house done, call me. I enjoy pieces and two, three, four, five with the client, see the job to
being versatile and fulfilling and six-inch chunks to three- fruition and make sure they
a client’s vision. That means foot by five-foot, 1,500-pound are happy.”
basically everything concrete boulders. “You can do amazing
and everything landscaping.” things with landscape glass,” About 90% of Brandon’s
says Brandon. “It comes in a jobs are residential in the
When Brandon says variety of colours from clear South Okanagan. However,
everything, he means and amber to green and blue his concrete expertise has
everything. Messier’s Concrete and it doesn’t fade. It looks been called upon by One72
and Landscaping builds great lit up in a xeriscape Concrete to work on highrises
concrete landscape retaining garden and a boulder can be such as the Landmark 7 office
walls, patios, fountains and an impact piece, also lit up.” tower and the One Water and
special features. Ella condominium skyscrapers.
Landscape glass is a new
It can also do asphalt product offering in the
preparation; paver patios and Okanagan and Western
driveways; block, wood and Canada for high-end
rock landscaping; staircases; landscapes. “I love working
fencing; real grass; artificial with a diverse range of clients
4 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 5THE FACE OF SENIOR CARE Y es, a DJ at a retirement home.
Rockin’ Robbie is a resident
at the Concorde Retirement
one of Verve Senior Livings’ 33
residences located across the
country. They have been the
can be involved as much as they
want. There are yoga, fitness
and light weights classes and
Community in Penticton with a leaders in the industry for over a Walk For Life Club for pole
huge vinyl collection. She sets up 42 years,” says Sharon. “Although walkers. There’s a knitter’s group,
The Concorde
her sound system 2 to 3 times the Concorde is a smaller home a coffee-and-donuts Men’s Club,
a week (because it’s so popular) with 77 suites housing around book club, paint and sip (art
to spin the tunes, usually with a 90 residents, there is a definite and wine), happy hour with live
theme. advantage. In fact, there’s often entertainment, music programs
a lot of one-on-one attention, where residents play their own
Retirement Community
For instance, it may be all Bing which makes the resident feel instruments, armchair travel club,
Crosby one night, Frank Sinatra noticed and appreciated and gardening in the resident garden
another, the 1960s, 70s or country gives the families and caregivers and lectures on art and history.
and western. By the way, on peace of mind knowing that “Residents and their families are
country nights Rockin’ Robbie their loved ones are well taken often our greatest ambassadors
shows up in costume—cowboy care of.” because they make referrals to
hat, plaid shirt and her sidekick
SHARON LUSCH family and friends,” says Sharon.
dog, Lexus, who tends to pipe in The Concorde is also lauded for “There’s nothing like seeing
occasionally with her rendition of its food. “We have so much to happy, engaged and laughing
the song. celebrate living in the Okanagan, residents when someone is
which is why our menu features touring the Concorde and
Residents like our DJ is just three-meals-a-day created considering it for themselves or
one of the delightful things around a program called Living, their loved one.”
that make the Concorde Loving, Local. Each month,
Retirement Community unique. our red seal chefs seek out Whether it’s singles, couples
The Concorde is all about fresh, BC products to create a or even siblings that want to
“There’s creating a home that feels like dining experience and theme share a suite or live on their own,
nothing like family, according to marketing integrated with recreation the well-established Concorde
manager Sharon Lusch. With 33 activities and special events,” Retirement Community is
seeing happy, committed and dedicated staff, says Sharon. celebrating 21 years as the next
engaged and there’s an incredible focus on best place to call HOME.
care in both the independent The Concorde offers activities
laughing and assisted living areas. “We’re seven days a week so residents
residents...”
6 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 7and air conditioning systems to company by the time I was 30.
THE FACE OF HOME INSPECTIONS flooring, doors, windows, building So, in October 2020 I took the
structure and lot grade. leap and started SunOka Home
Inspections.”
After the physical home
inspection, Cody generates Cody’s 29 right now, so his dream
a 60-70 page report that’s of owning his own company by
presented to the client within age 30 has come true.
24 hours. “Basically, I go into the His experience as an electrician
home and operate everything also helped him complete
that a resident would to see if the one year of schooling and
everything works as it should eleven extended sessions of field
and also inspect all the systems training with different home
a resident doesn’t necessarily inspectors in Squamish, Nanaimo
see, but are essential to the and Kelowna. Cody is certified
home’s function, comfort and with the Home Inspectors
safety,” says Cody. “It’s not a pass Association of BC and Consumer
or fail test, or a building code Protection BC.
inspection. It’s an inspection to
generate a report to let the client A typical home inspection costs
know exactly what they will get about $500 and depends on the
when they move in.” size and age of the home.
It’s money well spent to give a
For instance, the report may prospective home buyer that
show the home needs a new aforementioned peace of mind.
roof and hot water heater within Home inspections are not
a year. That’s information a mandatory in BC, but almost
prospective buyer needs to know every realtor recommends them
to make a decision on whether to clients and 80% of potential
SunOka Home
or not to go through with the home buyers ultimately have
purchase. Cody also prides them done.
himself in being responsive to
clients. “I can usually do the
home inspection the next day
Inspections
and get the extensive report to
them the day after that,” he says.
C ody Baker is in the business
of giving customers peace
of mind. “Really, that’s what it’s
When Cody and his wife bought
a house three years ago, they
got a home inspection. Since
all about,” says Cody, the owner then, they’ve added to the
CODY BAKER and operator of SunOka Home family with 14-month-old Olivia,
Inspections in Penticton. “I am who advertises the business
the experienced person who when she wears her SunOka
goes through the home you are Home Inspections hoodie to the
looking at buying to give you playground.
“I am the experienced person who goes a professional and unbiased
report on every aspect of the It was that home inspection the
through the home you are looking at buying home.” couple had done three years
to give you a professional and unbiased ago when they bought their first
report on every aspect of the home.” A typical home inspection house that got Cody to thinking.
sees Cody spend about four “I was an electrician then and
hours inspecting hundreds always had an interest in all
of elements from electrical, aspects of housing,” says Cody.
plumbing, hot water, heating “I also wanted to own my own
8 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 9Spiritleaf Penticton
MATTHEW AND JASON BOLTON
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the
non-high component of
cannabis that can help
with chronic pain, sleep
difficulty, seizures, anxiety
and depression.
K nowledge and customer
service are Spiritleaf
Penticton’s calling cards. “Our
Matthew Bolton
OWNER & OPERATOR
staff know all the products
inside and out, so they can help
customers find the right product August 2020. Since then, nine However, after visiting Penticton
for them,” says Matthew Bolton,
who owns and operates the
other stores have opened. as tourists for a decade, Matt “...We see everyone
But Spiritleaf has retained its moved to the city with the
franchise with his brother, Jason. industry-leading status with its intention of opening a cannabis from young adults,
“Initially, a lot of customers
thought they just wanted flower,
knowledge, customer service store. “Definitely, we wanted to men and women
and the fact it is a part of a join this wonderful, new industry
oil, vapes, beverages and edibles franchise with great locations with Spiritleaf,” says Matthew. in business attire,
with the highest THC.” throughout the Okanagan in to senior citizens
West Kelowna, Kelowna and The team has grown to include
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is Vernon, as well as Maple Ridge six employees with Katy who all want a
the psychoactive component of
cannabis that produces a ‘high’.
and Castlegar. L’Heureux as manager. “We range of THC and
have quite a diverse customer
“But by staying in tune with our Spiritleaf is Canada’s No. 1 base,” says Matthew. “The first CBD products.
customers, we found that many
people quite enjoy products with
cannabis retailer with more than stereotype of cannabis stores It’s become
70 stores coast to coast and a catering to young people who
a little less THC or a combination plan to have 100 stores by the want to get high has been
normalized.”
of THC and CBD,” says Matthew. end of the year. “Darren Bondar dispelled. We see everyone from
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the non- (Spiritleaf’s president and CEO) young adults, men and women
high component of cannabis knows the industry incredibly in business attire, to senior
that can help with chronic pain, well, is down to earth and gets to citizens who all want a range
sleep difficulty, seizures, anxiety know each and every franchisee,” of THC and CBD products. It’s
and depression. “We have many says Matthew. “We love the become normalized.”
separate THC and CBD products, Spiritleaf image and that’s what
but we also carry products with attracted us to this franchise.”
THC and CBD combined,” says
Matthew. Matthew and Jason know
Spiritleaf was the first cannabis
franchises. They owned and THE FACE OF CANNABIS
operated a successful one,
store to open in Penticton in Domino’s Pizza in Ontario.
10 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 11THE FACE OF AUTOMOTIVE
“We may not always
Skaha Ford get it perfect, and
certain cases may be
unique, but that’s why
we depend on feedback
BRAD JINJOE from the community to
improve ourselves.”
I t’s a new era at Skaha Ford.
The dealership, which has been
in Penticton since 1984, is under
It’s all based on trust. During the
browsing and buying process,
salespeople are able to keep in
new ownership, new touch with potential customers
management and has a new on whatever platform they’re
vision based on customer most comfortable, be it in person,
satisfaction and community. by phone, email, text, Facebook
or Instagram. In fact, follow the
The man behind this positive dealership on Facebook (Skaha
change is Brad Jinjoe, the dealer Ford Penticton) and Instagram
principal and managing partner. (Skaha Ford) for the latest news
“The focus is now improved and updates on giveaways. When
awareness, and a better brand,” you buy a vehicle, you can expect
says Brad. your salesperson to reach out to
you and ensure your experience
Skaha Ford is a local dealership, continues beyond the sale.
owned, managed, and supported
by locals. Everyone who works In an effort to increase
at the dealership lives, works community give-back and in
and plays in the Okanagan. light of the effects of the current
Skaha Ford is aware of this, and pandemic, Skaha Ford has found
that is why people are the most a way to give back. Every 90 days,
important part of the equation the dealership’s new ‘Real People
at the dealership. “We may not Helping People’ campaign will
always get it perfect, and certain see a member of the community is undergoing its first major
cases may be unique, but that’s who has been set back, redesign in five years. After 25
why we depend on feedback receive a free of cost vehicle years out of production, the
from the community to improve repair or service. The person Bronco SUV, which reigned
ourselves,” says Brad. “This may themselves can send in a video, supreme from the late ‘60s to
seem strange to say about a car or someone who knows them 1996, is reimagined and making a
dealership, but Skaha Ford is not can send a video describing the return. And Ford’s first all-electric
just here to sell you a car. We’re circumstance, and Skaha Ford car, a variant of the popular
here to establish a long-term will ask for the community’s Mustang called the Mach-E, is
relationship, to make sure you’re input on choosing a winner. making its debut.
happy and we’re the first choice
for all your vehicle purchases and Skaha Ford also has three Skaha Ford looks forward to being
service and even where you buy exciting product announcements your choice for your next vehicle
your kids their first car.” for 2021. The Ford F-150, North or service and hopes to continue
America’s best-selling truck, to grow with the community.
12 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 13THE FACE OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Raymond James is the largest non-bank-owned
independent brokerage in Canada.
Okanagan
and switched to finance. “When
I reflect back on those choices
I realize I am still an educator
because I work with my clients to
Wealth
teach and educate them about
their money and investments,”
says Kelly.
After graduation, Kelly spent
Management
14 years working and gaining
experience and expertise as a
financial advisor in the credit
union system. In 2012, she joined
of Raymond
Raymond James. “Raymond
James as a firm is really what’s
considered an end game for
financial advisors,” says Kelly.
“It’s the largest non-bank-
James
owned independent brokerage
and as such we have unbiased
investment options for our clients
so they get the best experience
and the best investments for
them.”
KELLY LINDSEY Having worked as a financial
advisor for over 20 years now,
Kelly has come up with the
Retirement Layer Cake process
for helping clients design and
implement their retirement
“...people may feel Investing is fun. Kelly Lindsey
says the phrase with conviction
As a financial advisor, Kelly’s job
is much more than just looking
income plans. Finding an advisor
with time-tested processes is
overwhelmed if they to reinforce to clients that it’s after the numbers. It’s taking a unbelievably valuable to have.
true. “Investing is an area that holistic approach that starts with Even harder to find, is an advisor
don’t fully understand is usually intimidating to most a plan based on the client’s goals. that still has a long time horizon
investing. My job is to people,” says Kelly of Okanagan Financial goals mean different to work with clients.
Wealth Management of things for different people.
guide clients according Raymond James in Penticton. “Common goals that we work Raymond James Ltd., is a
to their time horizon “As such, people may feel towards with clients are a work member of the Canadian
overwhelmed if they don’t fully optional lifestyle, retirement Investor Protection Fund.
and goals and when understand investing. My job is to planning, education savings or
the process clicks they guide clients according to their leaving an estate behind for your
time horizon and goals and when loved ones,” says Kelly.
realize how enjoyable the process clicks they realize
it is and that, in fact, how enjoyable it is and that, in When Kelly first started
fact, investing is fun.” university, she was planning to
investing is fun.” be a teacher. She discovered
that wasn’t exactly her calling
14 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 15THE FACE OF FUNERAL SERVICES
Kettle Valley
Memorial Services
KEVIN SMITH
Kevin Smith has given control of Kettle Valley Memorial delivers
funeral services back to families. customized and caring services
“I’m a funeral director and to families in their time of
embalmer, not a salesperson. need. Burial, cremation, urns,
I listen to the family,” says the services, caskets, memorial
owner of Penticton’s newest cards, embalming, viewings,
funeral home, Kettle Valley pre-arrangements and markers
Memorial. “Burial or cremation, are all offered out of the funeral
I provide the family with all the home located at 461 Dawson
information and options available Avenue, Penticton. “When I went
to them so that they can make to look at the building back in
informed decisions regarding February of 2019, I could
their loved one,” see in my mind exactly how the
funeral home would lay out in
Kettle Valley Memorial’s vision the building,” remembers Kevin.
is to be Penticton’s number “The lobby, viewing room,
one choice for funeral service. selection room, preproom,
Through its exceptional service, receiving area in the back. I could
it provides compassion, empathy see it all perfectly in my mind At Kettle Valley Memorial Kevin, his wife Lee and their three Kevin is a Rotarian and
and integrity in everything it and how the layout would serve every family is treated with daughters moved to Penticton volunteers his time with many
does. the families.” compassion, respect and where they have made many different causes in the city.
“I opened Kettle Valley empathy. It always goes the extra meaningful connections in the Kevin is an expert in dealing with
Kettle Valley Memorial offers a The barn shaped building was Memorial on May 15, mile, so that families don’t even community. Kevin graduated all funeral service matters. He
fresh and modern approach in somewhat of a landmark in think about going anywhere else. from the Canadian College of has served over 2,000 families
celebrating and honouring the Penticton 30 years ago, where 2019, with the sole It offers exceptional service to Funeral Service in September during his career and gained a
lives of those we have lost. it sat at the corner of Industrial purpose of getting back every family served. 2014 and spent many years massive amount of knowledge
It sets the standard for excellence Ave and Main Street. Businesses serving the communities of the in funeral directing, embalming,
in the funeral services profession. that called the building home to serving families the
Kevin grew up in southern South Okanagan before opening burial, cremation, funeral
“I opened Kettle Valley Memorial including ICBC and BC Forestry. way they want to be Alberta and started his funeral Kettle Valley Memorial on May law, international shipping,
on May 15, 2019, with the sole In 1988, the building was moved
purpose of getting back to to its current location on Dawson
served.” service career in 2007. Back then 15, 2019. Kevin looks forward pre-arrangements and grave
he washed cars and mowed to continuing to serving the markers.
serving families the way they Avenue. lawns for Martin Brothers Funeral Penticton community.
want to be served,” says Kevin. Home in Lethbridge. In 2011,
16 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 17Penticton’s Face of Interior and Construction was born. The “The problem is, you don’t have
THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN AND Design + Management knew at a firm helps clients get unstuck, the time or expertise to design
young age what she loved doing finally reach their design vision and plan your epic renovation or
PROJECT MANAGEMENT -- reorganizing, and updating goals and know the exact steps new build construction without
spaces until they felt right and they need to take to bring their feeling overwhelmed, stressed
expressed their purpose. She just dreams into reality. and anxious. You don’t have the
Gabriella Milgrom didn’t know what it was called necessary vendor relationships,
until her teenage years. Jeengi is a unique name and structures, or knowledge to
OWNER & OPERATOR
came to Gabriella on a trip to understand the full scope of
At the ripe old age of 16, she Israel in 2019. As a redhead, what you need to do to see your
found the label of what she had Gabriella has always stood out in vision become reality.”
Hank the Tank been doing for years and a crowd, but in Israel she not only
DEPUTY OF MORALE started her journey towards stood out more, but adopted “We understand that you want
honing her creativity and an endearing nickname within to maximize your budget while
learning all the skills and her travel group: Gingi; the also reducing stress. We have the
tools of interior design and Hebrew word for redhead. “So methods, organization tools, and
management. when it came time to name the people skills to help you enjoy
company, it just felt right,” she the process without so much
For over 10 years she’s says. overwhelm, self-doubt and worry.
been helping business and We have a variety of packages
homeowners alike discover Having been boots on the to suit your unique needs, from
how to design + plan the ground for full scale construction 1 ton 1 consultancy perfect for
physical space of their dreams. projects, she speaks the DIYer’s, to full service design and
She has applied her talents language and knows how management that takes care of
towards an array of restaurants, to manage a site; yet has every detail for you; and options
commercial kitchens, homes, experienced her fair share of in between,” she says.
hospitals, wineries, breweries and industry bias. “I understand the
fitness facilities. With a degree hesitation, overwhelm and self- Like many other interior
in Interior Design and Project doubt that women experience designers, Gabriella provides a
Management, and having when undertaking a project design service. But her skills in
successfully completed over 20 on their own. I have had strong seeing the full scope needed to
projects, Gabriella knows what female mentors who taught bring an idea to life have helped
it takes to help people create me to let my background and many of her clients avoid project
spaces that enhance the lives of experience pave the way, and to delays and budget pitfalls.
the individuals who use them to never hide my strengths or shy
live, work and play. away because of my gender. I “Most individuals don’t know
always bring my A game and let where to start and how to bring
Jeengi (pronounced: jin-jee) my quality of work speak for a design project together, so we
started when her husband itself.” created a framework that helps
landed a job in Penticton and them simplify their design ideas,
relocated the couple from At Jeengi, they know you want create great interior layouts,
Jeengi Design &
Vancouver, where Gabriella was to have a home or business connect with contractors the
a Project Manager with Fraser that perfectly reflects YOU. To right way and understand how
Health Authority and found joy do that, you need to design, to pull it all together on time and
in helping to bring to life projects organize, and execute each budget.” she says.
that would benefit people. detail with precision and have a
Construction
When she relocated to Penticton, backup plan, or two, should the Stop feeling confused and stuck
she found herself looking for unexpected happen (which it unable to start. Book a call and
ways to bring that joy back into will). take the 1st step towards your
her life; and so Jeengi Design design vision.
Cell: 236-500-0343
GABRIELLA MILGROM
FACES OF PENTICTON 19THE FACE OF FEMALE ENTREPRENEURSHIP Esha Randhawa
OWNER & OPERATOR
Green Light Cannabis
ESHA AND ZARINA RANDHAWA
Zarina Randhawa
E sha and Zarina Randhawa
are not just sisters, they are a
dynamo pair of young women
In their spare time, Esha and
Zarina usually like to travel,
volunteer and spend time with
purposes. But they also sell a
variety of THC (the component
of cannabis that elicits a high)
OWNER & OPERATOR
entrepreneurs. family and friends. With those products, including marijuana
activities severely curtailed by flower, pre-rolled joints, edibles,
Their business expertise and COVID, the sisters have the time vapes and beverages.
passion runs the gamut from a to throw themselves completely
pharmacy and mobile bottling into work. CBD has been authorized by
line to cannabis. Esha, 32, is the Health Canada for help in the
pharmacist manager at Rexall Well, not quite completely treatment of chronic pain,
in Penticton. Zarina, 25, is the because they still find time to sleep difficulty, anxiety, arthritis,
owner of Betza Bottling, a mobile run and hit the gym. “Exercise MS, seizure disorders and
bottling and labelling service for is an escape, a chance to focus symptoms of cancer treatment.
Okanagan wineries such as Ex your mind on something else so Anecdotally, CBD is also believed
Nihilo, Volcanic Hills, Lang, De you can come back to work with to help manage autism, nausea,
Silva, Covert Farms and Vin Amite focus,” says Esha. depression, skin conditions,
to name a few. In fact, she’s the irritable bowel syndrome,
only woman in Western Canada As a full-time pharmacist, Esha asthma, symptoms of HIV and
who owns and operates a mobile helps a lot of geratric patients. end-of-life care.
wine bottling line. While doing so, she found a
lot of older people struggling There are lots of cannabis stores
Together the sisters also own and with a myriad of illnesses were in the Okanagan now. But Green
operate Green Light Cannabis, hesitant, but curious, about how Light sets itself apart by having
which has stores in Penticton CBD (the non-high component a pharmacist as a co-owner,
and Okanagan Falls. “I’m so of cannabis) can be used for truly local roots because the
proud of us and how far we’ve medical purposes. “So, we sisters were born and raised
come as minority (Punjabi created a store that’s bright in Penticton, a wide variety of
Indian) young women,” says and people are comfortable to products and an educated staff
Esha. “We’ve had to adapt and come in and be assisted by an that can relate to all kinds of
set ourselves up for success, educated staff who can relate to cannabis users. “Our goal is to
especially, with the cannabis all types of people who might be always grow, expand, learn and
business. We opened the using cannabis,” say Esha. improve,” says Zarina.
Okanagan Falls store in May 2020
and the Penticton store in July The stores certainly sell a variety
2020. They are new businesses in of CBD products (think oil, tea,
a new industry and we did it all topical creams, beverages,
during a pandemic, which was capsules, candy and chocolate)
not easy.” for cannabis consumption
20 FACES OF PENTICTON“We can serve many clients
out of Penticton and the
Ian McAndrews
THE FACE OF LAW South Okanagan, but, if
LAWYER we can’t, we’ll refer them
to one of the 22 lawyers
FH&P has in Kelowna. And
the lawyer will travel from
Kelowna to Penticton to
meet the client.”
FH&P Lawyers LLP
IAN McANDREWS
H ockey led Ian McAndrews to
the bar. Not the drinking bar
(well, that too), but the bar of the
Ian’s known FH&P partner Rod
Pacholzuk for as long as he can
remember, so they got to talking
one of the 22 lawyers FH&P has
in Kelowna. And the lawyer will
travel from Kelowna to Penticton
legal profession as an institution. and determined Ian should head to meet the client. In the past,
“I was taking commerce at UBC up FH&P’s Penticton expansion. that business was lost because
Vancouver and started playing That happened in December Penticton lawyers would have
hockey with the law school guys,” 2019 when Ian launched the to refer out of town and clients
recalls Ian, now a lawyer with Penticton office to do mostly would have to travel to Kelowna.”
FH&P Lawyers in Penticton. “They family law with some criminal
seemed to be having a lot of fun, law and general civil litigation The Kelowna-Penticton FH&P
so I thought: I can do that. So, I thrown in. “It’s mutually set up means clients can benefit
applied and got into law school.” beneficial and good for from the firm’s full range of
Penticton,” says Ian. “Right now services and expertise of two
The rest, as they say, is history. there are three of us in Penticton, dozen lawyers, wherever they
Ian, who’s originally from Calgary, me, Kristin Greenough, a family are. “At some point, I’ll go down
graduated from UBC’s law school lawyer who worked in Kelowna to working three days and week
in 1989 and moved to Penticton for years, and assistant Marni and then eventually retire, if my
to article. He’s been in Penticton Brown.” dog Harold lets me,” says Ian with
for his entire 31-year law career a smile. “But, I’ll do so knowing
and knows the city inside out. The Penticton office is also there is continuity with FH&P
Ian was running his own practice looking to hire a solicitor who can Lawyers and my files will be left
out of KOKM with five other handle business and real estate in good hands.”
lawyers when he heard through law cases. “We can serve many
the grapevine FH&P Lawyers clients out of Penticton and the
in Kelowna was interested in South Okanagan,” says Ian. “But,
expanding into Penticton. if we can’t, we’ll refer them to
22 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 23THE FACE OF REAL ESTATE
Ale Morales
Personal Real Estate Corporation
ALE MORALES
O riginally from Puerto Vallarta, so when it came time for me to
Mexico, Ale Morales is now move to Canada with him we
living the dream with her husband compromised on location and
and two daughters in the South decided on the South Okanagan
Okanagan. “My dream career is for better weather and lifestyle,”
also here in real estate, helping she says with a laugh.
people find their dream home,” After incorporating in 2016, Ale
says Ale, which is pronounced like started her real estate career in the
operators,” she says. “So I knew a lot
Allie, and is short for Alejandra. “I South Okanagan.
about Canada and loved it.”
transfer that enthusiasm to my
clients. It’s incredible to live, work While pregnant with their first
The market is always changing, so
and play in Penticton between daughter in 2018, Ale made a
Ale’s expertise as a realtor in the
two lakes and amongst all the splash in her new career with 2%
South Okanagan keeps clients
wineries.” Realty and won Agent of the Year.
up to date and provides guidance
“My passion is my family and my
and support throughout every
Ale works with Royal LePage job,” she says. “So, the baby came
transaction. She helps clients
Penticton through her own Ale to work with me.” That passion also
review and understand the
Morales Personal Real Estate makes Ales approachable, honest
multiple documents involved,
Corporation. She met the man and dedicated to her clients.
negotiate the best price and look
who would become her husband After joining Royal LePage in
out for their best interest in either
seven years ago while he was March, Ale won a gold award with
buying or selling.
vacationing in Puerto Vallarta. the company for 2020. After giving
“At the end of this, it creates a bond
“But, he’s originally from Manitoba, birth to her second daughter
and we become like family, which
in October 2020, she achieved
is the most rewarding feeling,” says
platinum level.
Ale. “I always aim to have happy
clients, which is why this is more
In Mexico, Ale had two careers.
to me than just a job. Home is the
One, selling real estate to locals
biggest life purchase some will
and tourists, a natural calling for
make and I am so happy to be
the daughter of a man who has
able to guide people through this
been a development manager in
process. It is about connecting
Puerto Vallarta for 30 years. The
people, whether they be young
second was International Sales
families, those downsizing or
Manager for Friendly Vallarta
relocating to the right property,
Hotel. Some of her clients were Air
neighbourhood and lifestyle.”
Canada, WestJet, Air Transat and
Sunwing, who included Friendly
Ale’s new project is representing
Vallarta accommodation in their
Skaha Hills, a luxury home
all-inclusive holiday packages. “I
development overlooking Skaha
would travel to Canada three or
Lake and the Valley with multiple
four times a year to meet tour
properties available in the fall.
24 FACES OF PENTICTONTHE FACE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
South Okanagan
Animal Care Centre
DR. GEORGE PROUDFOOT “...Animals definitely
make a positive
difference in our lives.”
A fter almost 40 years as a
veterinarian, Dr. George
Proudfoot is still constantly
Dr. George graduated from the
Western College of Veterinary
Medicine in Saskatoon in 1981
on Riverside Drive and called it
South Okanagan Animal Care
Centre,” he says. “I’m the senior
amazed by the human-animal and had his own clinic in Fernie veterinarian, I am 69, after all, and
bond. “It truly is a social force,” for almost 20 years. In 1999, he I work three to four days a week.”
says the senior vet at the South moved to Penticton because in
Okanagan Animal Care Centre. Aboriginal language it means ‘a Dr. George is proud to have
“We’ve seen it even more during place to live forever’ and it is the his name on the sign with Dr.
COVID with people getting best place in Canada for pets and Stephen Ganton (the CEO of
puppies and kittens because humans alike. He started Animal Interior Pet Health Group); Dr.
they need the social interaction Medical Clinic in Penticton as Karen Kemp, who he worked
they may not be getting with a mixed practice, meaning he with for the past three years
other people. Animals definitely treated dogs, cats and horses as she split her time between
make a positive difference in our and even made some house the Interior Pet practice in
lives.” calls. Summerland (Summerland
Animal Clinic) and his practice
Dr. George knows veterinarians Over time, he began to in Penticton; Dr. Katie Bennett
have to have a unique concentrate more on dogs and joined the practice in January
personality, especially for the cats and affiliated with Fairfield 2021 after practicing in Williams
type of longevity he’s had in the Animal Hospital in Kelowna Lake and graduating from the
career. “It’s an emotional job and for emergencies, because the Western Collage of Veterinary
usually there’s a high burn-out hospital operates 24/7. Medicine in 2019; and new
rate for veterinarians in general, hospital manager Katie Craig.
but strong healthy personal and It’s not all about animals for Dr.
professional relationships are the George. In his spare time you’ll Interior Pet is made up of Central
glue that keeps us happy and find him gardening, camping Valley Veterinary Hospital,
working,” he says. “You have to be and hiking. When it came time Fairfield Animal Hospital and
professional, but also have a good for Dr. George to modernize his South Mission Animal Hospital,
bedside manner, so to speak, clinic, he turned to Fairfield’s all in Kelowna, Westbank Animal
with both the pets and their parent company, Interior Pet Hospital in West Kelowna,
people. As it is with everything, Health Group, for a deeper Summerland Animal Clinic and
it’s all about relationships. And partnership. “We needed digital South Okanagan Animal Care
I just really want to help people x-rays and ultrasound and Centre in Penticton.
and their animals.” bigger premises, so me and all
my staff moved to a new clinic
FACES OF PENTICTON 27Upper Bench Winery
& Creamery Gavin Miller
CO-OWNER AND
WINEMAKER
GAVIN AND SHANA MILLER
C onsidering wine and cheese
is a match made in heaven,
it’s surprising only one Okanagan
The woman who makes all these
artisanal cheeses is Gavin’s wife,
Shana. Therefore, it isn’t just
winner. The 2020 Pinot Blanc
($22) and 2020 Pinot Gris ($20)
are also newly released and
winery makes both. “Certainly, wine and cheese that make a welcome on any patio or table.
it makes us unique,” says Gavin tremendous marriage, but so do Gavin, who’s always considered
Miller, co-owner and winemaker winemaker and cheesemaker. himself a ‘big red guy,’ is
at Upper Bench Winery & Shana learned her trade at justifiably proud of his reds.
Creamery on the Naramata nearby Poplar Grove Cheese and
Bench. “In fact, we’ve built our Gavin has a background making He calls Merlot the red best
entire Corks & Curds Club around wine at Poplar Grove, Painted suited to the Naramata Bench
it. Four times a year we’ll ship six Rock and Red Rooster. and he makes an incredible one
bottles of wine and three cheeses for $30. Cabernet Sauvignon is
to you. It’s like a wine and cheese The couple’s goal has always harder to ripen on the bench, but
party in a box arriving at your been to produce excellent value- Gavin does it with a stunner at
home every three months.” for-money, high-end wines and $40.
cheeses at their own place. That
As such, you can sip your Upper dream came true when they
Bench Chardonnay with the teamed up with Wayne and
signature Gold, a semi-soft Margareta Nystrom of Vancouver,
cheese reminiscent of Oka. Or who also have pulp and paper
pair any of the white wines with and coffee companies, to buy
double-cream brie, the light one of the Holman Lang wineries
red Pinot Noir or Zweigelt with out of receivership and reinvent
Okanagan Sun, an aromatic soft it as Upper Bench Winery &
cheese, or some of the bigger Creamery.
reds with King Cole blue cheese.
Corks & Curds membership starts The just-released Upper Bench
at $190 every three months and 2020 Riesling, the follow up to
also comes with perks such as the 2019 Riesling that won ‘wine
discounts off additional online of the year’ at the BC Lieutenant
wine purchases, complimentary Governor Wine Awards at last
wine tastings at the winery and year’s Fall Okanagan Wine
an invite to the annual summer Festival, is guaranteed excellent
party, when permitted. and just $24 a bottle. The
Chardonnay is superb and
THE FACE OF WINE
affordable at $27 and is also
a past Lieutenant Governor’s
28 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF PENTICTON 29The Long Gallery
+ Studios
JENNY LONG
People love seeing process. That’s space to work and create. It also in my foundation as an artist is a
why when you enter The Long showcases the work of some of professor I had in university, Bryan
Gallery + Studios in downtown Jenny’s favorite BC artists added Ryley. He was so adamant that I
Penticton you’re likely to see to the mix, work that you typically only created from this pure place
proprietor Jenny Long and other don’t see in Penticton. “The Long of expression, one that transcends
resident artists developing new Gallery + Studios is alive and always time and removes any thought
work in their studios. But then growing, which is what I crave to make work for an intention
you’ll also see beautiful finished art most deeply,” says Jenny. of selling or pleasing others. The
carefully curated and for sale on intimate nature of connecting
the walls. “Yes, I actively paint here,” The art gallery out front is home with colour and the power it can
says Jenny. “People want the whole to rotating displays of paintings hold is key to my practice as well as
experience of seeing how art is of resident and guest artists the freedom in letting a painting
developed and created as well as and also includes a shop selling unfold without trying to control
the finished product. It’s way more locally handmade jewelry, pottery, it,” says Jenny. “I always encourage
interesting this way. They can see candles and prints. “We always others to do the same, throw ego
the paints we use, how we paint, have a different, big piece or out the window, lose themselves
and meet the people behind arrangement in the window that and connect with authentic
the art.” draws in the crowd and then they creativity. Everyone is an artist. You
can see artists at work, the gallery just have to get into it, practice and
Jenny specializes in abstract and the shop,” says Jenny. get busy making.”
portraiture, the use of colour
and form to capture someone’s The other nine resident artists are Jenny has a ‘Hjem’ tattoo on her
essence. These aren’t posed, abstract painter Robin Robertson; left bicep, a tribute to the Danish
realistic paintings, but original mixed media and digital artist word for home and a nod to her
creations both intuitive and Graham Fox; illustrator and painter instrumental year in Scandinavia
conceptual put to canvas that are Alexandra Brooke (Belleartiste); as an exchange student when
alive with energy and expression. painter and collage artist Christina she was fresh out of highschool.
Jenny does commission work to Baird; painter Ron Gladish; multi- “Hjem isn’t a particular place, it’s “People want the whole
paint custom portraits of clients media artist and photographer wherever you are, wherever you’re experience of seeing how art is
and their loved ones and is also Nettie; fluid abstract painter Susie happy, wherever you are creating
well known for painting live at Myers; painter and illustrator and learning and connecting
developed and created as well
theatre productions, painting Endrené Shepherd; and newest to authentically with people,” she as the finished product. It’s way
competitions and big events the gallery photographer Robert says. The Long Gallery + Studios is more interesting this way...”
throughout the community. Kenney. such a hjem.
The Long Gallery + Studios is
just that. Jenny is also an art teacher who longgallery-studios.com
instructs and inspires with one-
It’s an inviting business where
ten resident artists have studio
on-one lessons, family sessions or
small classes. “A huge influence
THE FACE OF ART
30 FACES OF PENTICTON FACES OF PENTICTON 31THE FACE OF SOLAR POWER
“In the past six years... new solar
SkyFire Energy
production exceeds all other
power sources and more solar
is being installed than any other
power source in the world.”
LANDON ALDRIDGE
SkyFire Energy’s name says it all. opportunity to reduce or eliminate production exceeds all other power
“The sun is the fire in the sky,” says their electricity bill. And, for sources and more solar is being
SkyFire’s Okanagan-based vice- everyone, there’s usually an installed than any other power
president of operations Landon equal environmental reason of source in the world.”
Aldrige. “And the sun keeps us preserving the planet and showing
in the business of engineering, our kids and grandkids what’s Part of the acceleration is the BC
procuring, selling and installing possible.” One of the scenarios Energy Step Code aims to make
solar power projects ranging in size possible is to have solar panels the province Net Zero ready by
from single-family residential to on the roof to generate electricity 2032. Developers, homeowners,
utility scale.” to not just power your home or businesses and institutions
business, but also to charge your are helping make it a reality by
SkyFire has been Western Canada’s electric car, for a whole cycle choosing solar for retrofits as well
largest solar contractor since it solution. as new construction. “Solar is
started in 2001. While its head more affordable and attainable
office is in Calgary, it has expanded By the way, SkyFire also installs and therefore has become
to Edmonton, Regina and the electric car charging stations and mainstream.” sums up Landon.
Okanagan. back-up solar energy storage
systems at homes and businesses
The Okanagan office is responsible and is a Tesla Powerwall Certified
for hundreds of residential and Installer for such as well.
commercial design-build solar
panel installations, the solar power An average home in the
systems at the Penticton and Okanagan with a south-facing
Kelowna campuses of Okanagan roof to capture the sun can offset
College and the installations at its entire electricity bill with a
Canyon Falls Middle School in $20,000, 32-panel installation that
Kelowna and Westbank First generates about 10,000 watts of
Nation’s Sensisyusten elementary power annually. The payback for
school. “Everybody has a different such a system is about 10 years.
reason for going solar,” says “Solar installations are about 80%
Landon. “For business, industrial cheaper now than they were 10
and institutional customers it’s years ago,” says Landon. “The
usually about reducing operating biggest shift has been in the past
costs. For some businesses, there six years. In fact, it’s gone from a
is a marketing component. For niche for people who were off-the-
homeowners, it’s the perfect grid to the point where new solar
FACES OF PENTICTON 33THE FACE OF RESORT AND CONFERENCES
PentictonNow.com
Penticton Lakeside
Resort and Subscribe to our daily Newsletter
Conference Centre PentictonNow.com/daily-newsletter
PentictonNow PentictonNowBC PentictonNow
ELIZABETH CUCNIK AND BRANNIGAN MOSSES
T he Penticton Lakeside Resort
and Conference Centre has
embraced many changes over
community. “Women can be
exceptional project managers,”
on employee development, and
working creatively as a team, so
says Elizabeth. “Sociable and that we are ready to welcome
the years, reflecting in part, the intuitive, we often find ourselves guests back when it is safe to do
variable dynamic of community at the heart of the human story, so,” says Brannigan.
and culture both regionally and and what better way to tell it,
globally. hear it and listen, than right here, In the meantime, the Lakeside
within the world of hospitality.” encourages people to ‘staycation,’
Now the resort embraces where they can either rediscover
another seismic shift, welcoming With vastly reduced guest the resort or stay for the first
two women at its helm. and conference counts due to time, and to explore the many
Elizabeth Cucnik, the resort’s travel and event restrictions, it’s on-site amenities and venues.
new general manager, and been a long and challenging They include the casually elegant
Brannigan Mosses, the assistant pandemic year for the 273-guest Hooded Merganser, located on
general manager, are excited and room resort, which houses over Okanagan Lake, The Barking
ready to take the business into
new heights, embracing both
32,000 square feet of conference
and event space. “We have
Parrot bar, and, opening at the end
of April 2021, the Bufflehead, an Our Network
the youthful creativity of today’s
generation, while honouring the
tried to take advantage of the
unprecedented quieter times
elevated breakfast buffet and eggs
benedict ‘every-which-way’ eatery.
Sites PrinceGeorgeNow VernonNow
rich history and evolutionary arch by renovating, performing cross
of the resort and its surrounding departmental training, focusing
Divisions ofNowMedia Group
audience, while still enabling the
personal experience of curling up
on the couch with the physical
magazine.”
We believe in the power of
networking and guidance from
Nikki Csek
global thought leaders, which
is why we are in the business CEO
THE FACE OF STORYTELLING
of bringing people together.
“The Level Up Events series has
brought to Kelowna some of the
best speakers in the world, telling
global stories and inspiring
local success,” says Level Up
S torytelling goes back to the
dawn of time. In fact, some
of the greatest stories are still
holds and for the stories we get
to tell,” says NowMedia Group
CEO Nikki Csek. “Each one can
“Everyone has a story and
it needs to be shared with a
Event director Alexa Anderson.
From webinars and podcasts to
promotional and appreciation
immortalized on cave walls or on be bigger and more connecting vision of a better tomorrow.” events, we can brand, market,
the stones of pyramids. than the last.” organize and execute your next
The d6 Print Studio is such a
event.
Modern technology allows us to The digital agency Csek Creative natural extension of the offerings
tell stories in so many different is where we build the foundation of NowMedia Group.
We have also made a huge
ways and now more than ever, of brand stories, starting Signage is still one of the most
investment in our most recent
your story matters. Your story with planning, determining important needs for a business.
business unit, IVA Productions.
is what connects customers to marketing goals and objectives, Our investment in the best
The power of Imagery,
your brand. People make buying developing campaigns, and technology makes for amazing
Videography and Audio enables
decisions with brands that execution strategies. “Strategy quality that is less expensive and
your story to be captured and
understand their customers and before tactics is what I try to more environmentally friendly.
told in a way that conveys
involve them in their story. stress with clients,” says Csek emotion in the hands of your
Creative vice-president of “It provides a tremendous
audience. “Reaching the right
We have developed a 360-degree business development Rob competitive advantage for the
people at the right time, whether
approach of telling stories, Cupello. “We must have a plan brands we work with,” says d6
streaming podcasts in their car,
which allows us to bring in that addresses clear goals and Print Studio manager Brandon
scrolling social media on their
different perspectives, devices objectives if we are to succeed in McKay. “I love that we can be
mobile device or watching videos
and mediums to tell your story the market.” creative and deliver high quality
online, has never been easier, but
in the richest, most meaningful solutions for our clients that wow
it takes rich content to captivate
way possible. Whether we are We started on this journey them time and time again.”
and connect them with your
telling a story through the lens as WelcometoKelowna.com story,” says Ellen Schwenkedel.
of a journalist or a marketer, we two decades ago because we So much magic remains in the
understand stories matter and believed every community printed word, which is why we
Each of our six divisions and
demand great care in the way needed a media platform took a fresh perspective on it
the team members within have
they are told. to support its people. with the launch of 16 Flights
unique strengths, but at the end
PentictonNow.com evolved Publications. “The magazine
of the day, we are all storytellers
NowMedia Group is comprised from that and has become a publishing division utilizes
and we all love what we do.
of six distinct business units, leading voice in a very crowded the technology of the d6 Print
each of which are leaders in their media market. PentictonNow Studio to print high quality
Your story is our business!
respective fields. When leveraged has a unique, non-traditional niche magazines,” says Steve
in unison, our six units provide way of storytelling, one that is MacNaull, editor for several of the
an exponential competitive respectful, responsive and caring. publications. “Also, we utilize the
advantage to your company by “We understand that with the strength of voice of NowMedia
bringing your story to life. “We voice we have earned, we must platforms like PentictonNow
started on this road as storytellers be respectful of people and our to share the stories to a vast
over 20 years ago and we are very community,” says group COO Jim
excited to see what the future Csek.
FACES OF PENTICTON 37I AM
Recognizing female
UPCOMING MAGAZINE
W OMAN
leadership in the Thompson Okanagan
I AM WOMAN is an exclusive annual publication that shines
a spotlight on women in leadership throughout the
Thompson Okanagan.
Do you know a woman who should be featured?
sales@nowmediagroup.ca
(250) 862 8010 ING IN
PUBLISH
2021
NIKK
CSEK D CO-FO
CEO AN EDIA GR
U
M
OF NOW
FEMALE SHIP
LEADER TTERS
THAT MA
NUAL
E XC LU SIVE AN SHINES A
AN ON THA
TYou can also read
