Future Shock

Okanagan Life explores the potential sustainability of our Valley lifestyle

In this issue you'll hear from10 experts who joined us for a frank round table discussion to probe the threats, challenges and possible reasons for optimism surrounding the future of the Okanagan. Are we in for a fatal shock? You'll also meet one of Canada's most venerated artists, a pair of caring teens and a subversive tree hugger. All this and more...

A Jolt From the Blue...the Future of Our Valley
Despair? Denial? Doubt? When we invited a diverse assortment of the Okanagan's best minds and important players to sit down together and talk about the Valley's future, as well as options for its sustainability, we weren't sure just what we'd hear. Would they say everything is just fine, will be hunky-dory and merrily be on their way? Or would they be full of hopelessness and offer nothing but a grim assessment of what lies ahead? Neither one of these scenarios truly played out. But what we did hear left us gripped with emotion - doggedly determined to help create a better destiny - and with a new question to ponder: With a grounding in a better understanding of our present reality, will we continue to disconnect our actions from our future, or will we have the foresight and resolve to avert a fatal shock?

Are Urban Gravel Pits Good for the Okanagan
Two concerned citizens square off for Fisticuffs over this hot current issue.

Teacher Taps Talent and Pride
Tony Walsh didn't have a clue what he was doing when he started teaching Okanagan First Nation kids in the 1930s. But his open mind fostered an unprecedented outpouring of cultural art and drama.

Perky Pinot Packs Pizzazz
Pinot Gris - Pinto Grigio - Grey Monk ... Pick your language, this versatile varietal loses nothing in translation.

Couch Neglecter
Remember when cross-country skiing meant woollen knickerbockers and a shuffling glide? Now the trails are a blur of lycra as skiers hop out of the old classic tracks and into the hot, hip sport of skate skiing.

Who Among Us
With health-care resources stretched to the max, hospital staff would be lost without the help they get from student volunteers like Tony Sam and Sunny Gakhal.

Rear View
Self-confessed tree hugger subverts subdivision solidarity.

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