All posts tagged with: Okanagan

Photo credit: Big White Ski Resort

Photo credit: Big White Ski Resort

Wine aficionados know the Okanagan Valley has amazing wines, and outdoor adventure seekers know Big White is an amazing outdoor winter playground. Mix these people together in one room and you have an awesome event called Big Whites at Big White!

The 3^rd annual Big Whites at Big White is a showcase event of the best white wines from the Okanagan Valley. Held on March 23 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at the Village Centre Mall, there will be dozens of fantastic Okanagan wines to choose from.

“In addition to being well known for our incredible snow conditions, the Okanagan is perhaps most celebrated for its outstanding wines,” says Trevor Hanna, Food and Beverage Director at Big White. “The Big Whites at Big White event is a great way for skiers and wine lovers alike to enjoy the finest the Okanagan has to offer.”

Many of the restaurants at Big White, including the Kettle Valley Steakhouse, 6 Degrees Bistro, Carver’s Restaurant and the Bullwheel to name a few, get involved by serving up tasty appetizers made with local ingredients.

Tickets for the wine tasting spectacular are $60 per person and are available through the Big White Concierge Desk.

The best deal on accommodation at Big White for this event is the Book 2 and Get 3 at the Inn at Big White package.

Photo credit: Big White Ski Resort

Big White Ski Resort is located 56km (35mi) south east of Kelowna, British Columbia, in the Thompson Okanagan. Known for its dry powder snow, family friendly environment, and ski-to/ski-from accommodation, it’s the ultimate BC ski vacation destination. If you don’t ski, that’s ok too – there are plenty of other activities that will keep you busy all day long including the day spa, horse-drawn sleigh rides, tubing, ice hockey, and of course lively bars and nightlife. More than just family friendly, Big White has a wide-range of international visitors making it a safe, friendly, and fun destination for everyone.

CONTEST

I’m always sharing stories about the amazing places I’ve gone to. This time, I want you to experience it yourself!

Enter now for a chance to win a fabulous ski vacation for two to Big White Ski Resort in the beautiful Okanagan. Package includes two nights accommodation at a hotel at Big White and two days of downhill or cross-country skiing for two adults. To enter, tweet the following:

I want to win a ski trip to @BigWhite from @br_webb! http://ow.ly/hZ3Ou #WinBigWhite #BigWhite #Okanagan #Wine Please RT to enter.

Once you have tweeted this contest you can receive up to four additional chances to win, by doing the following:

1. Subscribe to myWebbSite.ca and leave an additional comment on this blog post confirming you have subscribed for an additional entry.
2. Follow @br_webb on Twitter and leave an additional comment on this blog post confirming you are a new follower for an additional entry.
3. Leave a comment on this blog post on why you need to take a ski vacation break.
4. Share this blog post on Facebook and leave an additional comment on this blog post confirming you have shared on Facebook for an additional entry.

Contest closes at 5:00pm PST, Friday, March 1, 2013. One random drawn winner will be announced on this blog post on or before Saturday, March 2, 2013. Read the complete contest rules. This Big White ski package is valid Sunday – Thursday and expires April 13, 2013 (other restrictions may apply).

- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

This contest is now closed.

Congratulations Gary Jones, you are the lucky winner of a two-day ski vacation for two adults to Big White Ski Resort in the beautiful Thompson Okanagan!

Thank you to everyone who entered by sharing on Facebook, twitter, and subscribing to myWebbSite.ca. Please keep watching for more contests coming soon.

Along the shores of Lake Okanagan in the heart of downtown Kelowna, British Columbia, is the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort. The 390 guest-room property has been the flagship of the waterfront since it was constructed in the 1980’s, and today remains one of the premier properties in the city.

For years the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort has been referred to as ‘the only place to stay when you visit Kelowna’, but in the past few years, the hotel was beginning to show it’s age. In 2012, the hotel underwent a massive renovation, bringing the property back up to Delta standards.

The modern new rooms are warm and inviting. From large LCD TV’s, to workstations with connections for any kind of electronic device, the new rooms are a gadget-geeks dream. The bathrooms are outfitted with well-lit glass walk-in showers, high-end fixtures, fluffy towels, and premium toiletries. Although the room was spotlessly clean, there could have been greater care taken in ensuring the linens were pressed and tucked tightly with proper hospital folds; a miss for a premium hotel property. Rates start from $139CDN per night.

While the hotel is located on Lake Okanagan, home of the fabled Ogopogo, it is peculiar that the lobby water feature is of dolphins. It’s a nice water fountain, just an odd choice given that the Okanagan isn’t even near the ocean.

The Resort property is home to a 30,000 sq ft casino, restaurants, a pub, outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness centre, and spa.

Whether you are visiting the Okanagan on business, to see friends or family, or enjoying the skiing, golf and other outdoor activities the Valley has to offer, make the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort your home away from home.

• Guest Room: ★★★★
• Bedding: ★★★
• Towels and Toiletries: ★★★★★
• Restaurants / Amenities: ★★★★
• Customer Service: ★★★★★
• Overall Experience: ★★★★

Big White Ski Resort, located 45 minutes south east of Kelowna, B.C., is one of British Columbia’s largest ski resorts. While it’s well known for it’s dry, Okanagan power snow, Big White is working to put itself on the map in dining too.

On mountain there are over 30 restaurants, bars and coffee shops offering everything from fresh baked cinnamon rolls to sushi. Trevor Hanna, Director of Food & Beverage at Big White, is on a mission to improve the food quality at the resort at an affordable price.

While après ski typically includes beer and nachos, Trevor and his team know not everyone that visits the resort are avid skiers and are just there to enjoy a winter vacation, so they are coming up with new ideas.

One of the latest creations is an Okanagan version of an afternoon tea. Served on specific day at the Kettle Valley Steak House, the tea service such as the traditional cucumber sandwiches and scones with preserves, but also includes more untraditional flare including smoked duck bacon and salmon wraps.

For the best food and beverage experiences, stick to properties that are owned and managed by Big White Ski Resort. Exactly as they like to control the ski experience they are passionate about delivering an exceptional dining experience for even the toughest food critics.

Throughout the season there are also a number of events that foodies will love, including the Big Reds wine tasting in early December and the spring White wine tasting. Both of these events have about 30 Okanagan wineries sampling wines and a host of food vendors with all kinds of delicious hors d’oeuvres.

It might be early in the ski season, but it’s definitely mid-winter ski conditions at Big White Ski Resort, located in the Thompson Okanagan. The resort has been blessed with over 150cm of snow and the base just keeps building!

It’s the snow! Not kidding you. In the winter the coastal precipitation cools as it comes inland, which falls as dry, powder snow. The abundance of snow is incredible. Over 750cm each year!

Variety is a good way to describe the 105 marked runs. From glades and powder filled bowls, to perfectly groomed cruisers and black-diamond chutes, there’s every kind of skiing and snowboarding your heart desires. The longest run stretches over 7km (4.5 mi)!

You won’t be waiting in line either like you do at other large ski resorts. There are 16 lifts including a six-person chairlift, five quad chairs and seven other types of ski lifts. The 60 acre TELUS Park has terrain features for beginners, all the way up to professional.

If you don’t ski – don’t panic! You have options. There are snow limo’s that can take you on a tour of the mountain so you can experience the entire resort. Or spend your day relaxing at the spa, having coffee overlooking the spectacular Monashee mountains, skate on Canada’s highest outdoor skating rink, or take a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride.

Once you’re off the slopes, the fun continues in the ski-in/ski-out village. There are almost 30 restaurants and bars on mountain for après-ski entertainment. From grab-and-go and casual dining, to small plates and thick steak dinners, chances are you won’t go hungry.

After dinner relax with a glass of Okanagan wine at the Kettle Valley Steak House or get a group of friends together at the Bull Wheel for drinks. As the night goes on, you’ll find a lot of the locals and younger crowd partying at Snowshoe Sam’s.

If you’re travelling as a couple, or a small group, there are 17,000 beds on mountain. While hotel rooms are obvious choice, there are plenty of other options including townhomes and luxury log cabins.

Big White Ski Resort is located 56km (23 mi) from Kelowna, BC. If you’re traveling from Vancouver there are a few options. Driving is pretty easy – take the Coquihalla (Highway #5) to Merritt and then the Connector to Kelowna (Highway 97C). It’s about a 4.5 hour drive in the winter. Just remember to drive slow. Another option is to jump aboard a charter bus line, like Destination Snow, where you can just relax and enjoy the time hanging out with friends and not have to worry about the driving part. Finally, the fastest option is aboard WestJet, offering multiple non-stop daily flights to Kelowna International Airport.

For more information and travel packages visit the Big White Ski Resort website.

Photo contributed

Photo contributed

The Okanagan Valley is home to beautiful lakes, world-class ski resorts, award-winning wineries, and championship golf courses. But did you know it’s also home to a $122 million resort development outfitted with over $10 million in Swarovski crystals?

The 187-acre Sparkling Hills Resort is located in Vernon, BC, and is home to a 149-room hotel and wellness spa. From the moment of arrival, guests will be in awe over the stunning property, located adjacent to Predator Ridge Resort.

Photo contributed

Guests of Sparkling Hills have the choice of one king or two queen beds.  The rooms also have soaker tubs for two, a sitting area overlooking the spectacular views of either Lake Okanagan or the Monashee Mountain range, and complimentary breakfast, valet parking and wireless internet.

All hotel guests receive access to the KurSpa amenities, the highlight of Sparkling Hills. Offering over 100 treatments to rejuvenate and refresh the body, the KurSpa goes beyond traditional pampering. Treatments include massage, mud wraps, reflexology, aesthetics and aromatherapy.

Photo contributed

What makes Sparkling Hills unique is their signature cold sauna. Featured in The Real Housewives of Vancouver, the cryotherapy treatment is the first cold sauna in North America. There are three chambers. The first is at -15’c, the second at -65’c, and the third at -110’c. Cold sauna guests wear shoes, swimsuits or shorts, and protective covering for the head, hands and face. This treatment is particularly effective for people suffering from inflammation, arthritis and joint pain. It would also do wonders for marathon-runners, post-race!

Guests are also welcome to enjoy the two salt-water swimming pools. The 14m X 8m indoor pool has underwater lights and music, and overhead the ceiling is decorated with crystals giving a magical starry sky effect. The outdoor 17m X 8m infinity pool overlooks Lake Okanagan.

There are also three restaurants located on site offering everything from breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Photo contributed

Fast Facts:

• 3 million Swarovski crystals
• 1.3 million Swarovski gems backed by silver to reflect light
• Over 1529 metres of crystal chains
• Over 750 metres of crystal strands
• 1 four story tall crystal built on site
• 3 crystal chandeliers hanging from the bridges of the lobby cost over $600,000
• The feature crystal weighs 300kg (661 pounds)

When planning a weekend getaway, it’s nice to find accommodation that reasonably priced, offers all the amenities of home, and feels special. The Predator Ridge Lodge, located just outside of Vernon, in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, is just the kind of place you want to stay.

The Predator Ridge Lodge has studio, one and two bedroom suites overlooking the world-class 36-hole golf course starting from just $169 during the summer season!

A luxury one bedroom suite starts at $199, and it’s an amazing value. The suite includes a full kitchen with real wood cupboards, full-size fridge and stove, dishwasher, microwave and breakfast island.

The living room has a full-size couch with pullout queen size bed, flat screen TV, music system, and a gas fireplace.

Off the living room is a private balcony overlooking the Predator Ridge Course; perfect for watching the sun come up over the mountains and enjoying a cup of coffee in the early morning.

A comfortable queen or king size bed awaits in the bedroom, with fresh, crisp sheets, down duvets, and fluffy pillows. The wood paneling is rustic and calming.

Inside the ensuite are a full-size glass and tile shower and a jetted soaker bathtub big enough for two! If you look at the details, you’ll see the soap holder in the shower has the Predator Ridge logo! The bath products are by Aveda and the linens are premium quality.

Guests of Predator Ridge Lodge also have access to the Fitness Centre, which includes top-of-the-line weight-lifting machines, lap pool, hot tub and yoga studio.

This summer, if you need a weekend getaway, check out Predator Ridge Lodge!

After a day of sunshine and Okanagan adventures, find your way to The Range at Predator Ridge Resort, located just outside of Vernon, BC. The casual fine dining restaurant has amazing views of the Predator Ridge golf course and the friendliest servers in the Okanagan Valley.

Ease into your early evening dinner with a strawberry-lemonade cocktail or a glass or Okanagan chardonnay. The Range received the Aware of Excellence in 2011 by Wine Spectator Magazine.

The menu options are traditional Pacific Northwest favorites – from pork loin to tenderloin, and everything in between. Meals start out with warm, fresh baked bread from Cobbs Bakery.

The steak salad is served with fresh greens and a light dressing.

For dinner I had the 8oz sirloin steak and seasonal vegetables. The vegetables were appropriately steamed. The pear chutney served over the steak had a bit too much onion for my personal preference, however, the demi glaze was well done. The fresh vegetables and protein were stacked over mashed potatoes, making the plate appear to be small portioned, but overall it was an appropriate entre size.

Save room for dessert! The hazelnut daquioise is amazing and pairs well with the See Ya Later Ranch late harvest Ehrenfelser.

Overall, it’s a great dining experience and a perfect spot for dinner with friends, a romantic evening out, or just a fun spot after a day of wine touring. Dinner service can be busy, especially after a great day on the golf course, so reservations are recommended: 250.542.3436.

It has to be one of the most stunning 18 hole golf courses in all of Western Canada. It’s the Ridge Course at Predator Ridge near Vernon, BC. The natural elements of the modern course, coupled with breathtaking lake, mountain and Resort views are unparalleled.

The Ridge course opened in 2010 as part of the master planned development of Predator Ridge. The casual course is the original 27 hole course Predator Ridge course that was re-worked into what is now two beautiful true 18 hole courses.

When the course was redesigned, much of the natural rock and terrain was used, which brings out the true character of each hole. Essentially only the tee boxes have been man built.

Located at the top of the horseshoe shaped canyon, at the 5^th and 13^th tee boxes, is the Outlook Cabin. It’s a great stop to sit and enjoy a beverage and snack mid-play and it has the most spectacular views!

The course also passes through some of the residential areas at the Resort and past a natural pond stocked with trout and full of turtles.

The Ridge is one of the more expense courses in the Thompson Okanagan region, however, it’s well worth making it part of your summer golf getaway this summer!

The agricultural city of Armstrong, British Columbia is located at the north end of the Okanagan Valley and the southern tip of the Shuswap region.

This is the Victorian house I grew up in on Okanagan Street in Armstrong, BC, which my dad lovingly restored

Surrounded by the Spallmucheen, which means “beautiful valley” in the local Shuswap First Nations language, Armstrong’s commercial centre is home to 4,500 residents. The community was named after E. C. Heaton Armstrong, a baker from London, England, who helped develop the community and fund the Shuswap and Okanagan Railway in 1892.

Armstrong Elementary School; where I went to school

Throughout the community there are many historic buildings and landmarks including Armstrong Elementary School, built in 1921. The school remains today in full operation after extensive upgrades throughout the mid 1990’s.

The Village Cheese Company - the most amazing cheese curds!

The Armstrong name is well-known across Canada and the United States because of its award-winning cheese. Armstrong Cheese was originally founded in Armstrong, however after 100 years of operation, the plant was closed in 2004 after being purchased by Saputo Inc. Armstrong’s history of cheese making continues through a new venture, the Village Cheese Company.

Located just 10 minutes from the Kelowna International Airport is the Farfield Inn by Marriott, in Kelowna. The four-story, smoke free hotel features 126 guest rooms and 34 guest suites and two meeting rooms.

The air-conditioned rooms include luxury linens, thick mattresses, custom comforters and fluffy pillows. Rooms also have 32” flatscreen televisions with cable tv, mini fridges, ironing boards, and a work station. Travellers will also enjoy the free in-room WiFi service.

Hotel Amenities include a year-round heated outdoor pool with waterslide, outdoor hot tub, fitness centre, free hot / cold continental breakfast, Grab-n-Go breakfast, safe deposit boxes and a concierge desk.

The Farfield Inn in Kelowna is a great property if you are looking for a quality and affordable, quiet sleep with all the amenities expected. The staff are incredibly friendly and the property is very clean and well maintained.

For more information, or to make a booking for your next Okanagan getaway, visit their website.

With over 300 acres of vineyards and 30 years of growing grapes on the volcanic hillside of the Kelowna’s Westside, it’s no wonder that Mt Boucherie Family Estate Winery is producing some of the best quality, award-winning wines in British Columbia.

For the last ten years the family has been making hand-crafted white, red, rose, late-harvest and ice wines from grapes grown in their own vineyards in Kelowna, Crawston and Okanagan Falls. Each year, one to three acres of grapes are left on the vine to create the very special late harvest and ice wines.

Current highlight wines include:

• The 2008  Estate Collection Smellion (0) has a clean, crisp taste. It has an unoaked finished (finished in stainless steel), and had a beautiful off-clear colouring.
• The 2009 Summit Reserve Pinot Noir recently won a gold medal. If you like spicy reds, this one is for you.
• For big and bold, their 2007 Summit Reserve also won a gold medal.

Mt Boucherie wines are available at most BC Liquor Stores, VQA wine shops, and select restaurants in Vancouver and Victoria. The full available selection of Mt Boucherie wines can be found in the wine shop located at the winery.

Mt Boucherie Family Estate Winery is located at 829 Douglas Road on Kelowna’s Westside and is one of the featured stops along the Tourism Kelowna Westside Wine Trail.

Since 1969, three generations of the Slamka family have owned and operated Little Straw Winery on Kelowna’s Westside. The family has a rich history as both growers and wine makers.

In 1964 the family purchased the 23-acre property, which today has 13 acres of grapes and 10 acres for their horses.

The first varietal in the ground was Marachel Foch in 1969, which they still grow and harvest today. Just five years later, in 1974, the family saw opportunity to expand and planted Auxerrois.

It wasn’t until 1994 that the family began to make and blend their own vintages. They are best known for Pinot Noir and Auxerrois icewine, however, there is a hidden cult of followers for their Tapestry blend.

The 2010 Tapestry, is a blend of Riesling, Auxerrois, Siegerrebe, Schonburger and Gewürztraminer. It has strong notes of citrus and has a clean, bold, crisp finish.

The 2008 Marachel Foch is a popular seller; however, because it has been blended with Lemberger it cannot be labeled as VQA. This vintage is still a bit young in the bottle and could sit for another year to reach its full potential. This wine is best served decanted for 4 – 16 hours to bring out the full pepper flavor and body.

Although they are well known for Auxerrois icewine, the Lemberger icewine is not to be missed. It has rich fruit flavours and is not thick and syrupy like most icewines. It’s high on the sweetness scale, coming in at a 30.

Grandpa Slamka is a self-taught wine maker and has passed his knowledge and skills to his son, who has since been experimenting with many new blends. Approximately 90% of the grapes used in their vintages are grown on the estate; the remaining 10% come from other Okanagan growers.

Little Straw wines can be found in select VQA wine shops in BC, but for the full selection it’s best to visit the estate at 2815 Ourtoland Road in Kelowna. The wine shop is open year around. For more information, visit their website.

Make the most out of the day by taking the Westside Wine Trail from Tourism Kelowna. The helpful guide will make sure you get to all the right stops along the way.

7:45am on the nose, the shot rang out and the 2011 BMO Okanagan half marathon was underway. The weather was perfect. Overcast skies, 8’c, a light rain and no wind. These are the best race conditions.

The route for 2011 was the same as 2010, which was a new, ‘old’ course. It’s incredibly flat; a total rise of about four metres, which in race terms is nothing. This makes the course fast and furious and most runners can easily score a personal best.

In fact, the Okanagan Marathon has one of the highest percentage of qualifiers of any other North American marathon. In 2010, over 10% of runners qualified.

My three goal times for this year were to complete, finish at two hours, and my whisper time was 1:45. Having not trained all summer and only competed in a few races and keeping up with my weekly 10k runs, I thought these were fair goals.

Lining up at the start line, I was with the 1:45 pace bunny. They were going to run 10-and-1’s. I thought this would be a good strategy. At their first walk break I was just getting my legs moving and I wasn’t ready to walk, and I fell into step with the crowd around me, something seasoned runners should never do.

At the half-way mark I saw a few people who I knew were there to cheer me on and it really did give a boost of adrenaline. As I continued on I felt pretty good. As expected around km 15 – 17, I was getting tired, but the small groups of people standing with signs and cheering were just the inspiration that I needed.

As I crossed the 17km mark I knew I was going to have an epic finish. I had ran most of the route with a small group of people who were all clock-watching and pacing pretty good. By 19km I knew I decided this was it and I had to push it to the finish.

One of the girls I had paced with got ahead of me, but I passed her again just before km 20. At the exact 20km point my left calve started to cramp and about 10 strides later worked itself out, but I knew the small pedestrian bridge was coming up quickly.

Sure enough as I took three giant leaps up the bridge and overtook the crowd, I felt both of my calves cramp causing me to almost fall to the ground. I was panicked for a short moment but knew there was only .3 km left to go. ‘Get ‘er done’ I said to myself.

As I entered the park there were masses of people who were clapping and cheering. I could hear the accouncer and got super excited. As I turned onto the final home stretch I put it into high gear, sprinting to the finish line and collapsed into the arms of the BMO staff member who put my finishers medal around my neck.

I turned around to look at the clock and it was ticking at 1:41:45! I knew at that exact moment that I had just smashed all my previous half marathon finish times and achieved a new personal best!

The BMO Okanagan Marathon is by far one of the best courses in the BC half-marathon circuit and I would encourage any runner to come and run. It was an amazing experience and I cannot wait to come back and do it again.

For spectators, friends and family, they were treated to being able to see three amazing races all happening at the same time – the full 42.2km marathon, the 21.1km half marathon and the 10km.

Congratulations to all the participants in the 2011 Okanagan Marathon and thank you to the volunteers, support staff, sponsors and spectators! A fantastic, well-done job! You all are winners in my mind too!

Official Results:

• Gun Time: 1:41:56
• Chip Time: 1:41:41
• Pace: 4:50
• Overall: 117 / 1331 (top 9%)
• In Sex (M): 87/472 (top 18%)
• Division (M30-39): 26/139 (top 19%)
• 10km Time: 0:47:54 (booo!)

Keddi-Anne Siterbino, winner of the 2010 BMO Okanagan Marathon

This week Kelowna welcomes the BMO Okanagan Marathon. There are 3,500 people expected to participate in the full, half and 10km events taking place in Kelowna City Park on Sunday, October 9, 2011.  So where is the best place to watch, get the best action photos and cheer on the crowds?

Many people select the finish area as the place to watch, cheer and photograph the participants. Here are some other great locations along the Okanagan Marathon race route that will have more space and be better for you as a spectator and to help encourage a positive running environment for the participants.

Here’s a link to the 2011 Okanagan Marathon half marathon race route. It will help you locate the KM markers and to choose where you are going to watch, cheer and photograph the event.

The best location to watch the event is from Kelowna City Park. The half marathon will have the most participants and it kicks off at 7:45am. For the beginning of the race, spectators should plan to watch the start of the race from Abbots Street as the runners are leaving the park. Plan to be in your location 5-10 minutes before the race starts.

The best photo opportunities for action will be along the seawall at the 10km mark. This is a nice stretch along the lake. There will be lots of spectators and runners will be hyped from all the energy from the crowd. Participants should still be full of energy because it’s the halfway mark. It’s also only a few minute walk from the course start. Runners should start trickling through this area around 8:10am for elite athletes and about 8:25 for the fast runners.

During the run, participants really rely on the energy from the spectators. Some runners thrive and get a burst of endorphins, re-energizing their body. On this particular course, cheer squads are appreciated from KM 15 – 19. For many unseasoned half-marathon runners, this is the hardest part of the run, and it’s also the furthest they will physically be from the finish line. If you’re watching in this zone, plan to be there for 8:40. Runners will be coming through this area right through 10:00am.

If you are going to stake out the finish line, elite athletes should start coming through around 8:55am mark. Faster half marathon runners should start arrive around 9:15am right through to 10:30.

Remember, no matter where you are watching from, to stay off the racecourse and to obey all the volunteers. It’s for your safety.

Have fun watching the participants run tomorrow and enjoy the sunshine!

After playing at the Closing Ceremonies live in Whistler for the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in March 2010 and signing with record label, Epic, in November 2010, Andrew Allen’s career was launched into fast-forward in 2011.

The BC acoustic / pop artist started off 2011 with a 6-month, 45 state tour across North America. From West Chester, PA, to Columbus, OH, to San Francisco, every stop along the way was full of fun and adventure for Andrew and his band.

Throughout his tour, Andrew Allen opened for some of the biggest names including Josh Radin, Barenaked Ladies, Bruno Mars, Lifehouse and The Script.

Andrew Allen and his band recently played in Vancouver, BC at the Pacific National Exhibition.

Andrew admits that although he had a great time traveling all across America, performing in front of so many of his fans, it’s always nice to come home and to relax.

“The hardest thing about coming off the road is getting used to doing things again, like making the bed and cooking,” Andrew said.

This fall Andrew is back in the studio and is as busy as ever. He has been working on writing new songs for other up-and-coming artists and has a few new songs of his own. I Want You has just been recorded and is set to release this fall in Canada, and Time Will Tell will be released in the near future.

[slideshow]

Blogger Brian Webb holding his half-marathon finishers medal after participating in the 2010 BMO Okanagan Marathon

The Okanagan TELUS Community Ambassadors are going to be out in full force this coming weekend as they prepare to welcome and host over 3,500 participants for the BMO Okanagan Marathon, Sunday, October 9, 2011 in Kelowna, BC.

The volunteer coordinator for the 17^th Annual Okanagan Marathon is Jane Fletcher, Kelowna’s 2008 Woman of the Year.

“We have volunteers doing everything including parking, driving and manning water stations,” said Fletcher.

Course Marshalls play the largest role on race-day. They are the team that are responsible to ensure the course is safe for runners, that they obey the race rules, and ensure participants clearly know where they are going.

Each of the 300 volunteers required to put on the Okanagan Marathon attend a short orientation session the Thursday evening before the event to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities. They also receive a commemorative t-shirt and are eligible to win a variety of prizes.

A drop-in style Volunteer Orientation Night is planned for Thu, Oct 6 from 5:00-8:00pm at the big tent located in City Park.

But the TELUS Ambassadors aren’t the only volunteers out and about. Title sponsor, BMO brings out their staff too. They are the ones responsible for hosting the Saturday kids day events, hand out gloves to participants, man water stations and most importantly, placing the coveted finishers medal around the neck of each successful half and full marathon event finisher.

If you would like to sign up to be a volunteer at the 17^th Annual BMO Vancouver Marathon, go to www.okanaganmarathon.ca and click on the volunteer button.

Just as important as the volunteers, spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer on all the participants at the BMO Okanagan Marathon.

[slideshow]

With over 3,200 beds in the City of Kelowna, accommodation choices are abundant. Often it comes down to location, budget and amenities to determine which accommodation is the right choice. Enter the Coast Capri Hotel in Kelowna.

The 185-room hotel a wide-variety of room configurations from two double beds to queen and king size beds. Each room has a small refrigerator, free local calling, and best of all, free high-speed Internet, something that is becoming harder to find.

Most guest rooms have balconies. Rooms will either have city views or overlook the outdoor year-round headed pool and hot tub. If sticking to your gym routine while out of town, the hotel also offers guests free access to the fitness centre.

The Coast Carpi Hotel is home to Vintage Room, a fine dining restaurant, where guests can dine indoors or poolside. Each morning the coffee bar is open for breakfast for those on the go, and for the late night crowd, the Coast Capri Hotel is the only hotel in Kelowna that offers 24-hour room service!

Within 10 minutes of the hotel are the orchards that have made Kelowna so popular. The bountiful seasonal harvests are celebrated at many of the local restaurants too, where locally grown fruits and vegetables are often featured on the daily menu.

Also close by are over 20 wineries. Tourism Kelowna has five distinct wine routes taking visitors to the different wineries for wine tastings.

For the past two years, the Coast Capri Hotel has been the host hotel for Okanagan Pride, hosting out-of-town guests and the venue for the highlight event, the Okanagan Pride Dance Party.

Whether you are in Kelowna for a conference, a golf weekend, visiting family, or just to relax and get-away for a weekend, the Coast Capri Hotel can certainly take care of you quite comfortably and at a reasonable price too!

For more information about Kelowna including things to do and to make your reservations, visit the Tourism Kelowna website, or book direct from the Coast Capri Hotel by calling 1-800-716-6199.

The Okanagan Valley is the heart of British Columbia’s wine country, and right in the centre of it all is the beautiful city of Kelowna, the birthplace of BC wine. The first grape vines were planted in the 1860’s by Father Pandosy and in 1932 the very first commercial winery was opened, kicking off what is now Canada’s largest wine tourism region.

Quail’s Gate Estate Winery is one of over 20 wineries in Kelowna. Opened in 1989, the 125-acre, south facing, lakefront property is located on the original home site of Okanagan pioneers, the Allison family (1870’s). Today, the vineyard is owned and operated by the Stewart family, employing more than 60 employees year-round.

Each year Quail’s Gate Estate Winery produces 55,000 cases of wine, equaling 400,000 liters. To grow enough grapes for their production, Quail’s Gate owns and operates six different vineyard locations. The majority of the wineries focus is on ultra-premium Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) wines.

The grapes are hand-picked in the vineyards and are crushed to be made into award-winning, handcrafted wines, including:

• Chasselas
• Riesling
• Rose
• Chardonnay
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Old Vines Foch
• Chenin Blanc
• Gewurztraminer
• Pinot Noir
• Merlot Fortified Vintage Foch
• Optima Botrytis Affected
• Riesling Ice Wine

Many of Quail’s Gates wines can be sampled at the Wine Shop’s tasting bar. Overlooking Okanagan Lake, the extremely knowledgeable staff will help guide you through a tasting tour of a number of the premium wines.

Located next door to the Wine Shop is the Old Vines Restaurant. The chef works with local suppliers and organic growers using the freshest ingredients from the Okanagan and the West Coast. The fresh dishes highlight each season and are perfectly paired with estate wines.

For more information on wine touring, accommodations and more activities in Kelowna, visit the Tourism Kelowna website.

[slideshow]

Pride in the Okanagan kicked off with a great success. Mayor Sharron Sheppard raised the signature rainbow flag at Kelowna’s City Hall and declared it Pride Week in Kelowna through the reading of the official Proclamation.

With 30’c temperatures and clear blue sunny skies all week long, members of the Okanagan community came out to enjoy movies, picnics, barbecue’s and golf events.

The beloved Joan-E, the Pacific Northwest’s most popular drag queen, graced many Okanagan Pride events over the weekend, including the Friday night barbeque and Saturday afternoon Festival in the Park. Her singing, dancing and banter was enjoyed by all ages.

“I am honored to be amongst the LGBTQ community of the Okanagan and their supporters,” said Joan-E. “I am proud of each and every one of them and proud of their accomplishments. I want them to know I think they are Brave”

Toronto’s Jeffery Straker had the crowd revved up with his powerful vocals and keyboard skills, while Kim Kumza from Vancouver entertained the audiences with her stunning musical talents.

The highlight of the week was the Okanagan Pride Dance Party hosted at the Coast Capri Hotel. DJ’s Drew G, Lisa Delux and Jeffery Michael kept the speakers pounding out the hottest beats and the dance floor grinding with hundreds of party-goers.

Joan-E will be performing this weekend at Okanagan Pride

With Okanagan Pride week events fully underway, as are the preparations to host on of the most popular and well respected drag queens all of the Pacific North West, Joan-E.

Joan-E, best known for her quick wit, banter and flirtatious attitude, comes from the creative imagination of entertainer, Robert Kaiser. Robert has been performing on stage and at events since 1990.

This weekend Joan-E will bring her wonderful sarcasm, frocks, boas and high-heels to Okanagan Pride, to join in the celebrations of the landmark achievements that have been made this year.

This year for the first time in its history, the City of Kelowna has proudly raised the iconic rainbow flag at City Hall and proclaimed Pride Week in Kelowna. This is a momumental for the Okanagan’s LGBT community because the previous Mayor, Walter Grey, refused to endorse all Pride celebrations.

“I am so pleased that the City of Kelowna has taken this great action,” said Joan-E. ‘The symbol of the Pride Flag over City Hall may literally save lives. Coming out is one of the hardest things any young man or woman will ever do. It is even harder in smaller cities or towns where there are smaller LGBTQ Communities and less visible Queer images and role models.”

In larger urban centres there are more resources for the LGBT community and they tend to be tolerant and more liberal.

“People can feel alone and may also think that they are the only ones who feel the way they do,” Joan-E explained. “For a young person coming out, the Rainbow flag at City Hall is HOPE. When communities stand up to be noticed and counted it sends a strong message that we are everywhere and that we are not going away.”

With Vancouver Pride, one of the larger Pride celebrations in North America, just wrapping up two weeks earlier, Joan-E is looking forward to celebrating Pride in the Okanagan.

“It is my privilege to have been asked to come perform and be part of Okanagan Pride,” said Joan-E. “I only hope I can do my job properly and put smiles on faces. As much as I love big city Pride, it will be amazing to have everyone from the community in one facility celebrating together. Oh, and I’ve decided to fall in love this weekend!! Hey, a girl can hope right?”

This weekend the community is encouraged to come show their pride, and to celebrate the diversity and variety of life and culture in the Okanagan. This the perfect opportunity for members of the community to demonstrate their openness, tolerance and supportive attitude during all Pride Week activities.

“I am honored to be amongst the LGBTQ community of the Okanagan and their supporters,” Joan-E explained. “I am proud of each and every one of them and proud of their accomplishments. I want them to know I think they are Brave. Anyone can walk hand in hand with his or her same sex partner in the Castro in San Francisco or on Davie Street in Vancouver. Those who do so in Kelowna, Cranbrook or Vernon who fight the hard fight… They get my props!”

As a leader in the LGBT community, Joan-E is sure to leave a positive impression at this year’s Okanagan Pride celebrations.

“I look forward to seeing old friends and making many more new ones!” said Joan-E “Happy pride!”

Joan-E will be performing Saturday afternoon at the family-friendly festival in Kelowna City Park and Saturday night at the Coast Capri Hotel for the Pride Dance Party.

Joan-E’s notable achievements include:

• Host of the Vancouver Pride parade for the past 12 years.
• Awarded Imperial Crown Princess, Entertainer of the Year, Empress XXVIII and Citizen of the Year in Vancouver’s LGBT community.
• Drag Queen of the Year by WE magaznine
• Hero award from Xtra West
• Friend Indeed Award from The Community
• 2010 Jose Honours award
• US State Congressional award
• Golden Jubilee Award of Merit from HRH Queen Elizabeth II
• Inducted into the Queer Hall of Fame in 2009