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The mission of the Okanagan Institute is to contribute to the quality of creative engagement in the Okanagan through publications, events and collaborations. » Home » Events » Publications » Collaborations » The Institute » Contact  Kelowna BC Canada Telephone 250.870.2690 Email: Click here  Click here to help us improve our programs. |
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 COMING SOON TO A VENUE NEAR YOU » June 13: Re:Verse The Poems that Elevate Us » June 27: Heed Your Health Digestion as the Key to Wellness PREVIOUS EVENTS IN KELOWNA 210. Song of Summer: Our Love Affair with Outdoor Music | 9 May 2013 A talented and enthusiastic group of arts promoters and performers as they showcase some of the best of the outstanding outdoor festivals coming this summer. 209. Sashiko: From Functional to Art Form | 11 April 2013 Master artist Val Wojtula for an explanation, display, demonstration and hands-on experience of Sashiko quilting. 208. Funny Bone: Get the Last Laugh! | 28 March 2013 A group of crafty humourists, comics and jokesters share a rib tickle, and invite the assembled to share in the frivolity. 207. The Art of Conversation: Encouraging Community Engagement | 14 March 2013 An open conversation about the kind of community we are, and the kind of community we imagine we can become. 206. The Story Matters: Navigating the Narrative Future | 28 February 2013 Writer and designer Robert MacDonald explores the critical role of the story in addressing social, economic, crative and environmental issues. 205. Retrofits: What's Old Can Be New Again | 14 February 2013 Local designers and builders Albert Van Ee, Randi Fox and Deren Sentesy share their expertise renovating and retrofitting buildings. 205. Eat, Relax, Enjoy: How Slow Food Can Change Our Lives | 24 January 2013 Local hospitality professional and Slow Food member Kristin Petersun-Laprise and Chef Martin Laprise share their expertise and insights. 204. Blind Sited: Art from the Edge of Darkness | 10 January 2013 Professor John Kennedy presents his research efforts, and artists Maggie Shirley and Eriko Watanabe share their creative processes and innovations. 203. Geriacting Out: St(age)ing and Talking Points | 6 December 2012 Director Ruth Bieber and a group of dedicated geriactors take to the stage to share their learning adventures and engage our imaginations. 202. Compassion: The Agency of Gender Justice | 22 Novemberber 2012 Artists and activists Julie Oakes and Linda Edgecomb share their insights into the continuing tragedy of the global exploitation of women. 201. Feel the Vibe: The Roots and Branches of Okanagan Blues | 8 Novemberber 2012 Bluesmen Sherman Doucette and Poppa Dawg share their history of pioneering the blues through their vocals, stories and instruments. 201. The Cooperative Alternative: for Health, Home and Community | 25 October 2012 Cooperative pioneer Vanessa Hammond and progressive nurse Cheryl Hann present the cooperative model, as applied to social and health issues. 200. Finding Heritage: Making the Past Come Alive | 11 October 2012 Acclaimed Canadian writer and horticulturalist Harold Rhenisch shows and tells about his discoveries of and vision for the Okanagan. 199. Finding Heritage: Making the Past Come Alive | 13 September 2012 Two citizens work both as professionals and as volunteers to preserve the local built environment and keep our past alive in the present. 198. Staring Into Space: The Astonomical Urge | 23 August 2012 A group of enthusiastic amateur and professional Okanagan star-gazers provide a peek at the objects of their fascination. 197. Talk is Cheap: The Art of the Possible | 9 August 2012 Retrospective examination of intentions and achievements, along with an anticipatory discussion of what we intend to explore going forward. 196. Up In Smoke: Getting the Lowdown on Pot | 12 July 2012 How the laws that regulate the growth and sale of marijuana for personal and medicinal use have resulted in unintended consequences. 195. Naked Fork: Rethinking the Food Landscape | 28 June 2012 Explore how the Okanagan food scene is defined by passionate farmers and producers, and how their changing world informs and defines ours. 194. Creative Juices: Inspiring the Okanagan Economy | 14 June 2012 How four Okanagan businesses are embracing the Creative Economy, expressing themselves, and providing opportunities for artists. 193. Plants on Fire: Planning for National and Other Disasters | 24 May 2012 An informative and critical discussion about measures our communities are - and we can - take to prepare for the worst. 192. What's the Plan? Urban Design for the Future | 10 May 2012 A lively discussion about the process of urban planning, and how Kelowna has and will determine the future of the cityscape. 191. What's Going On In Syria? An Open Community Discussion | 26 April 2012 An open discussion about the politics, violence, and citizen journalism in Syria that is making headlines around the world, 190. Creative Economy 101: The Prospect from the Margins | 12 April 2012 Creative outriders share stories of hope and horror, of how to survive, if not thrive, in the subcultures of the arts. 190. Wild Blue Wonder: Unravelling the Water Quandary | 22 March 2012 Environmental experts Don Gayton, Anna Warwick Sears and Scott Alexander examine the changing Okanagan environment and the impact of humans on it. 189. The CoCo Factor: The Promise of Regenerative Technology | 8 March 2012 Architect Douglas MacLeod, engineer Trevor Butler and contractor Deren Sentesy examine the practice of regeneration design, engineering and technology. 188. A Pilgrimage: Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind | 23 February 2012 The Way of a Pilgrim through the experiences of Thomas Close. Most recently his yearning led him to walk the Via Francigena, 2500 km from Canterbury to Rome. 188. Getting Back to Gaia: Anticipating the Growing Seasons | 9 February 2012 A diverse group of greenthumbers anticipate the coming tilling, planting, nurturing, growing and harvesting seasons in our yards and in nature. 187. Artists Among Us: Speaking of Creativity | 26 January 2012 Leading artists Stu Goldberg, Jock Hildebrand and Adam Lewis Schroeder share their experiences as part of the creative community in the Okanagan. 186. As Hope Arises: Imagining New Beginnings | 12 January 2012 Paul Henry, Alya Ramadan, Jake Kennedy, Mohini Singh, Father Sebastian Puthenpura, Karin Wilson and Heather Burton share their vision of the power of renewal. 185. Verse Vernacular: Songs from the Southern Interior | 1 December 2011 Jon Bartlett and Rika Ruebsaat introduce their research work, and perform songs and poems made up by Similkameen Valley pioneers. 184. The Imagination of Stan Chung | 20 November 2011 Award-winning author Stan Chung examines community, conscience, and social conventions with an uncanny ability to probe the heart of modern society. 183. Slow Money: Relocalizing our Financial Future | 17 November 2011 Carol Kergan and Jack Blarowski examine emerging methods for supporting our local economy through innovative financial ideas. 182. Habitat for Humanity | 3 November 2011 We showcase the past achievements and future plans of Habitat for Humanity, the local charity that keeps on giving shelter. 181. Making Sense of Change | 20 October 2011 A lively and provocative discussion of the changes that are occuring in the world and how they may affect the Okanagan. 180. That's Amore: Ricardo's Mediterranean Kitchen | 13 October 2011 Award-winning restauranteur Ricardo Scebba talks about his family, his heritage, his kitchen, his collaborators and his food. 179. A Recipe for Perry: Harold Rhenisch Celebrates the Pear | 6Octber 2011 Nationally acclaimed writer Harold Rhenisch guides us through a multi-sensory tasting of Okanagan pears. 178. Creative Agning: Sage-ing With Creative Spirit | 22 September 2011 Brenda Valnicek, Ruth Bieber, Karen Close, Carolyn Cowan and Sandy McNolty explain their creative journeys, and launch their Journal of the Arts & Aging: Sage-ing. 177. The Making of a Play: Carl Hare's The Eagle & the Tiger | 8 September 2011 Carl Hare discusses the creation of a play about the famous Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen and his wife, and the process of staging the result. 176. Feel the Rhythm and Beat Your Drum | 18 August 2011 Jim Copeman shares his collection of drums, helps us find our rhythm and facilitates a drum circle. Come prepared to enjoy a lively celebration of syncopation. Participants, even if they haven't played drums before, will be guided to create their own group rhythms. 175. Blue Skies: Looking Over the Horizon | 4 August 2011 A discussion about the future of our community, as we face up to the realities of economic and environmental turmoil, and explore possible paths to renewal and hope. 174. The Way We See It: The Insights of the Blind | 21 July 2011 Four visually impaired residents share their collective and unique points of view about living in the Okanagan Valley. Their stories remind us that true seeing is a very personal experience, a miracle requiring full attention and participation. 173. Green Grows the Future: Innovations in Agriculture | 7 July 2011 Agricultural outliers Gabe Cipes, Michael Irwin and Mike Kamann demonstrate green growth innovations that may become models for a sustainable future. 172. Tribehouse: Songs for Summer | 16 June 2011 A select group of musicians present songs, stories, and theories on the importance of artist collaboration and our drive to create art and music that matters. 171. Open Stage: Famous for Fifteen Minutes | 2 June 2011 A select group of new and seasoned Okanagan writers step up to the microphone. Poets and prose wordsmiths of all stripes will reveal their workings of inspiration and toil. 170. Reel Hunger Film Fest | 26 May 2011 The Kelowna Food Bank presents short films documenting local hunger, food security and social justice - with commentary by local filmmakers Jason Drury and Marc Arellano. 169. Come From Afar: Celebrating Community Engagement | 19 May 2011 A diverse group of creative newcomers share their experiences of moving to the Okanagan, starting new lives here, and becoming an active and productive part of their new community. 168. There Be Monstors: What Happened to the Dinosaurs? | 5 May 2011 Scientist Dr Ken Tapping takes us on a journey across millions of years and examines the life and death of the giant prehistoric monsters of fame and fable. 167. Jude's Kitchen: Celebrating BC's Seasons of Abundance | 28 April 2011 The publication of the quintessential BC cookbook, drawn from the hundreds of recipes published by one of Canada's pre-eminent cooking writers, and a true Okanagan treasure. 166. Meadowlark Celebrates Our Fragile Waterscape | 21 April 2011 The Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance and the Meadowlark Festival explore the interconnections of the natural world with our fragile waterscape. 165. The Healing Art of Story | 7 April 2011 Storytellers Cathyrn Wellner, Jean Montieth and Karen Close discuss the power of the story to connect us to our essential natures, and share our journeys of understanding and healing. 164. The Therapeutic Muse: Celebrating the Healing Arts | 17 March 2011 A panel of Okanagan artists ignited by the green chakra energy of the heart and excited to share their ideas, art and programs. 163. Making Change: The Transition Town Movement | 3 March 2011 Two groups present their efforts to proactively address the increasing vulnerability of communities to peak oil, climate change and food insecurity. 162. The Book as Art and Commerce | 17 February 2011 Successful independent publishers Laurie Carter, Stephen Joyce and Richard Fogarty discuss their publishing process and adventures. 161. The Spirit of the Arts: Celebrating Our Culture | 3 February 2011 Four leaders, representing a wide range of cultural organizations, speak to the spirit that informs, supports and promotes the arts in the Central Okanagan. 161. The Word Is Out: Writers on Publishing | 20 January 2011 Successful writers Sterling Haynes, Laurie Carter and Jarrod Thalheimer explain their writing process, discuss their publishing adventures and read from their books. 160. Anna Jacysyn: Raising the Bar | 6 January 2011 We present a citation - by citizen's proclamation - to the inimitable jazz vocalist Anna Jacyszyn through a series of honourific tributes, dedications and performances. 159. Global Citizen: The Imagination of Stan Chung | 12 December 2010 In presenting his collection of best-loved newspaper essays, award-winning author Stan Chung examines community, conscience, and social conventions with an uncanny ability to probe the heart of modern society. 158. Open Stage: Famous for Five Minutes | 25 November 2010 A select group of new and seasoned Okanagan writers step up to the microphone. Poets and prose wordsmiths of all stripes will reveal their workings of inspiration and toil. 157. Facing West: A Journey of Commitment | 28 October 2010 Merging fiction and non-fiction, award-winning author Don Gayton probes politics, conscience, ecology, and history with an uncanny ability to transform reality into magic. 156. Free to Read: The Cause and Cure of Censorship | 14 October 2010 Librarians Barbara Jo May and Tara Thompson from the Okanagan Regional Library present an overview on how and why libraries advocate for intellectual freedom. 155. Letter Perfect: The Fine Art of Calligraphy | 30 September 2010 Master artists Bill Litwin and Jacquie Myers present the history and practise of calligraphy, which draws on ancient roots and is a evocative expression of the decorative arts. 154. Mattering: Innovation in Action | 16 September 2010 Creative pioneer Nikos Theodosakis explains how his innovative InStill Life project has enabled young learners to create their own meaning, while supporting farmers in developing countries. 153. Making Book: Insider Secrets of Publishing | 9 September 2010 Publishing experts and entrepreneurs Dona Sturmanis and Robert MacDonald explore the rapidly changing publishing landscape and how writers can benefit from new tools and emerging markets. 152. James Murray: The Art of the Story | 26 August 2010 Writer and storyteller James Murray examines his life as a literary artist, discusses his writing process, and shares a selection of his award-winning tales. 151. Beyond Good Works: Nonprofits in the Okanagan | 19 August 2010 Marla O'Brian and Dawn Wilkinson examine the impact of the nonprofit sector on the people, environment, culture and commerce of the Okanagan, and what the future holds. 150. Open Stage: Famous for Five Minutes | 12 August 2010 A select group of new and seasoned Okanagan writers step up to the microphone. Poets and prose wordsmiths of all stripes will reveal their workings of inspiration and toil. 149. Free Energy: The Hidden Revolution | 5 August 2010 Author Jeane Manning shares her explorations in alternative energy innovations and explains why they are good news for individuals, the economy and our ecosystems. 148. The Male Body in Contention | 29 July 2010 Artists Cory Dixon, Shauna Oddleifson and Wanda Lock examine the evolution of the Okanagan's reaction to controversial art. 147. Envy: A Questionable Quality | 22 July 2010 Expert observers Mark Pigott and James Bell explore facets of an all too human attitude with a long history, and look into what it means for the modern world. 146. What's With Water? | 15 July 2010 Anna Warwick Sears of the Okanagan Basin Water Board explores water sustainability, including planning and management solutions to the Valley's pressing water problems. 145. Look! Up In the Sky! | 8 July 2010 Dr. Ken Tapping of the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory, one of Canada's leading scientists, takes us on an stimulating exploration of the science, mystery and danger of the solar world. 144. Built to Live: The Next Building Challenge | 24 June 2010 Design and building experts Douglas MacLeod, Deren Sentesy and Emmanuel Lavoie explore some of the innovations that will inform the next generation of sustainable building technologies and standards. 143. Voices to Our Ears: Alexandra Babbel & Candesca | 17 June 2010 World-renowned vocal stylists Alexandra Babbel and Candesca present a special performance of their unique and inspiring interpretations of classical and contemporary musical works. 142. Drum Role: The Beat Is Back! | 10 June 2010 Reacquaint yourself with the role of the drum as local musicians Trevor Saloum, Jadel Menard, Phillip Reed and Yamabiko Taiko share their love for the compelling percussion style. 141. Woodstock Revisited: Tom Wayman on the Sixties | 3 June 2010 Canadian writing icon Tom Wayman takes us back to the time - the late 1960s - when time stood still, and dreams were busy being born, and life was simple and full of promise and endless opportunity. 140. Celluloid Dreams: The Best Seat in the House | 27 May 2010 CBC Radio's Alya Ramadan hosts a panel featuring Janice Blackie-Goodine, Dean Goodine, Marc Arellano, Graham Cairns and Amar Chebib - all active members of the Okanagan's burgeoning film industry. 139. What Moves Us? Rethinking Transportation | 20 May 2010 UBCO professor and transportation engineer Gordon Lovegrove shows how creative thinking is the first step in forging a future of sustainable communities. 138. Culinaria: Refreshing the Palate | 13 May 2010 Writer and radio producer Karin Wilson, extraordinary grower Milan Djordjevich, honey mead producer Judie Barta and celebrated culinary writer Jamie Maw give food a resounding voice. 137. Mystery, Despair and Longing: The Homestead | 6 May 2010 Colin Snowsell and photographer Gary Nylander celebrate the release of their remarkable new book The Frollet Homestead with a reading and photo exhibit. 136. The Gift of Music: Discovering the Joys of Song | 29 April 2010 Musician and teacher Robin Jarman and songwriter Jacquelyn-Rose provide an entertaining, motivational and educational look at the wonderful world of song. 135. Earthly Belongings: Celebrating Earth Day | 22 April 2010 On this special day writer Heather Allen, artist Joanne Beaulieu and gardener Curtis Stone share their own unique connections to Mother Nature. Convened by ecologist Don Gayton. 134. The Anatomy of Anger | 15 April 2010 One of a series re-examining the Seven Deadly Sins. Social welfare advocates Micki Smith and Mike Gladman share their experiences on the front lines and what they've learned from them. 133. Come From Afar: The Immigrant Experience | 8 April 2010 Experts from local organizations that serve immigrants examine the challenges they face and successes they've achieved integrating new people into Okanagan communities. 132. The Creative Child: Fostering the Future | 1 April 2010 Filmmaker and creative entrepreneur Nikos Theodosakis and festival producer and recording artist Gordon Osland explore the energy, creative genius and giving spirit of children. 131. Invocations: Readings for Ryga | 25 March 2010 Writer and editor Sean Johnston, artist Jude Clarke and special guests introduce the new issue of the groundbreaking literary publication Ryga: A Journal of Provocations. 130. Home, Food & Hope: View from the North | 18 March 2010 Activists and community leaders Annette Sharkey, Wendy Aasen and Dave Rossi share their experiences - and successes - in developing sustainable solutions to serious social and economic issues in the North Okanagan. 129. Arts for All Ages: Igniting the Creative Spark | 11 March 2010 Teachers Katie Brennan, Karen Close and Beverly Rein explore the meaning of creativity and how arts teaching can be a transformative force across generations. 128. The Right Size: Planning the Future | 4 March 2010 Urban planner Patrick McCormick and architect Kevin Ryan investigate how the forces of economic development, community planning and sustainability effect our future planning choices. 127. Writing for Laughs: Why the Joke's On Us | 25 February 2010 Comics and satirists David Crawford, Darren Handschuh and Jarrod Thalheimer share their writing practice, tickle our funny-bones with stories, and shake our preconceptions. 126. Icons and Idioms: Snowsell on Apples | 18 February 2010 Professor and writer Colin Snowsell explores the nature of political and social power in the Okanagan through the story of his family, and launches his chapbook On Apples. 125. Spring Into Spring: Brave New Gardens | 11 February 2010 Experts and enthusiasts Don Burnett, Gwen Steele and Lisa Masini explore the principles and pleasures of sustainable gardening in the Okanagan, and share their insider insights. 124. The Just War and the New World Order | 4 February 2010 Distinguished pastor and scholar Chris Harwood-Jones leads a spirited examination of our changing attitudes about our conduct in the ever more troubled geopolitical world. 123. Ecoliteracy Matters Now More Than Ever | 28 January 2010 Celebrated Okanagan wisdom keeper, scholar and writer Jeannette Armstrong, shares an ages-old technique for building sustainability principles into community process, and examines the need to create a locally ecoliterate community in the Okanagan. 122. Innovation Vineyard: Challenges and Opportunities | 21 January 2010 Douglas MacLeod leads a session which will show how, through high quality design, cloud computing, resource positive development, social networking and helping small businesses commercialize their ideas, we can become one of the most innovative regions in the country. 121. Prognostications: Looking Back and Forward | 14 January 2010 David Bond, Stan Chung and Jim Taylor, three of the best minds in the Okanagan, share what they learned in 2009, and where they think things might go in 2010. 120. Words of Celebration for the Season | 17 December 2009 Writers, readers and storytellers Nissa Basbaum, Paul Henry, Linda Weaver Horton, Jake Kennedy, Gertrude McGovern, Alya Ramadan, Mohini Singh and Karin Wilson in a stimulating multi-faith celebration of the season. 119. John Lent: Poet Laureate of the Okanagan | 10 December 2009 John Lent, the entertaining and erudite "Poet Laureate of the Okanagan" reads from his exciting new collection Cantilevered Songs and explores the role of the writer in modern society. 118. Fountain of Youth: Found in the Okanagan | 3 December 2009 Drs. Colin Reid and Gareth Jones share findings from their researches into the physiological and social determinants of health in aging. 117. Culinary Writing: The Scribes Describe | 26 November 2009 We welcome three food journalism experts - writers and publishers Judy Steeves, Bryden Winsby and Joyce Wegner - to our eclectic bohemian table to stimulate our imaginations. 116. Express Yourself: A Community Forum | 19 November 2009 A freewheeling brainstorming session on the shape and future of the creative, social, intellectual, and economic issues of our time, and how Express should evolve to address them. 115. The Journey's the Thing: A Pilgrim's Path | 12 November 2009 An insightful exploration of "walking spirituality" featuring Jonathan Greenhalgh and Wayne Emde, who have plumbed the depths of the pilgrim's journey in both Japan and Europe. 114. The Ecstasy of George Ryga: A Literary Celebration | 5 November 2009 Peter Hay, Sean Johnston and Jake Kennedy celebrate the powerful legacy of George Ryga's life and work - and the launch of the first issue of Ryga: A Journal of Provocations. 113. Give Peace a Second Chance | 29 October 2009 Writer and ecologist Don Gayton and Middle-East peace activist Lisa Talesnick present their different - but complementary - experiences engaging with "peace and understanding". 112. Coming Up for Air: The Fourth Element | 22 October 2009 Nicole Marzinzik, air quality coordinator for the Regional District of the North Okanagan and Rick West of Quantum Wind Power explore the relationship have with the air we breathe. 111. Septic Flush: The Crisis of Country Life | 15 October 2009 Economic and cultural sustainability advocate Don Elzer provides insight into the emerging struggle of living successfullly in the rural Okanagan. 110. How to Write a Poem | 8 October 2009 Two of the best new emerging writers on the poetry scene - Chris Hutchinson and Kevin McPherson - take us on a journey into the heartland of a poem, and of their writing practice. 109. Music To Our Ears: The Wentworth Legacy | 1 October 2009 Third-generation retailer and studio manager Noel Wentworth profiles his family's decades-long dedication to the Okanagan musical scene. 108. Creative Aging: Redefining Retirement | 24 September 2009 Professor Colin Reid, writer Karen Close and special guests discuss how retirement is now viewed by many as a fluid process, allowing for the reemergence of opportunities and choices. 107. The Big Eat: The Truth About Gluttony | 17 September 2009 Writer and editor Jim Taylor, food and health advocate Cathryn Wellner, and registered clinical counsellor Kim Ewing explore sometimes excessive relationship we have with food. 106. Take a Hike: Nature as Narrative | 10 September 2009 Writers Wayne Wilson and Deborah Greaves take us on a delightful journey through the wild and wonderful geographical and natural environment of the Okanagan valley. 105. Reclaiming Culture: The Future of the Arts | 3 September 2009 Sharon McCoubrey of UBCO and the Arts Council of the Central Okanagan, Tracie Ward of the Rotary Centre for the Arts, Paul Crawford of the Penticton Art Gallery, Lynne Hossay of the Vernon Community Arts Centre, and Anna Jacyszyn of the Black Box Jazz Cafe discuss the threats and opportunities for the arts in the Okanagan. 104. Rap & Ringtones: Crime and Deviance in Mass Media | 27 August 2009 UBCO sociology professor Christopher Schneider conducts a wide-ranging, sharp and insightful exploration of the social and intellectual life of mass media, culture and technology. 103. The Power of Greed: Surviving Perilous Times | 20 August 2009 We step into deep waters with John Burton and Doug Hodgkinson to examine how the smell of money can turn honest people into someone no one wants to know. 102. Exploring Okanagan Architecture | 13 August 2009 Architect Nick Bevanda and urban designer Patrick McCormick discuss the relationship between architectural form and the concept of place in the changing environment of the Okanagan. 101. Up Chute Creek: An Okanagan Idyll | 6 August 2009 Writer Melody Hessing shares stories of the changing ecological and social environment in the Okanagan, and launches what's been called "a wise, funny, heartfelt, smart, poetic memoir". 100. The Future Perfect and Other Optimisms | 30 July 2009 We celebrate our centenary event with a robust mix of readings and reminiscences. We've come a long way in 2 years - take this opportunity to share insights and stories of the journey. 99. Pride and Prejudice: Challenging Attitudes | 23 July 2009 Peter Ord - curator of the Penticton Museum, Michael V. Smith - professor, writer and activist, and James Chin - psychiatrist, explore the good, bad and ugly sides of pride in all its forms. 98. Book Arts: Revenge of the Bibliophiliacs | 16 July 2009 Book artists Jason Dewinetz, Mark Rucker, Robert MacDonald and guests discuss the arts and crafts of bookmaking and showcase their work and examples from their collections. 97. Catch the Swing! The New Dance Sensations | 9 July 2009 Tanya Bakala, Warren Eaton, Natalie Bickert and Rose Sexsmith showcase the shakes, spins and shimmies that are stirring up dancers - and dancefloors - in the Okanagan. 96. Smile: It's Happy Time! | 25 June 2009 Therapeutic clown Donna O'Hearn, laughologist Rose Sexsmith and pastor Kenn Gordon discuss the healing power of happiness - what it does, why it works, and how to get there.. 95. Writing History: Okanagan Writers and Stories | 18 June 2009 Local historians, geneologists and biographical writers Dorothy Zoellner, Sharron Simpson and Robert Hayes discuss the joys and challenges of producing historical works. 94. The Visionary Quilt: Celebrating Fibre Arts | 11 June 2009 Award-winning art quilters and fibre artists Joanne Fissette, MaryAnn Acutt-Carlton, Maureen Carefoot and Carol Swinden showcase their work and discuss their process. 93. Arts in Learning: Engagement Across Disciplines | 4 June 2009 John McMahon, school principal and musician discusses exciting new developments in arts-based education in the Okanagan through the Learning Through the Arts program. 92. All That Jazz: Insight and Improvisation | 28 May 2009 Three of the Okanagan's most important jazz musicians - Larry Crawford, Anna Jacyszyn and Bernie Addington - share their considerable musical insights, skills and enthusiasms. 91. The Writing Life: Pen to Publication | 21 May 2009 Three of the Okanagan's most insightful writers - Ross Freake, Judie Steeves and Don Elzer - talk about the process of researching and writing feature articles on issues that touch us all. 90. Inside Design: Creating the Perfect Home Interior | 14 May 2009 Five outstanding local interior designers and decorators from Vernon, Kelowna and Penticton discuss the origins and influences that define our unique Valley style for interior spaces and upcoming design and decor trends. 89. Spring Culinaria: Celebrating the Culinary Arts | 7 May 2009 Celebrated food writer Jamie Maw, sustainable food expert Rebecca Kneen, and Ruth Mellor from the Healthy Food Council which recently released a food charter for the Central Okanagan, present a lively discussion of food issues. 88. Spark & Tinder: Stoking the Creative Fire | 30 April 2009 Writer and ecologist Don Gayton, filmmaker and creative director James Dow, and artistic director and choreographer David LaHay explore the value of creativity in tough times. 87. Local Heroes: Film and Filmmakers in Profile | 23 April 2009 A "reel" look at the film industry through the eyes of Canadian filmmakers Dave McIlvride, Alison Love, Zainab Siddiqui, Jim Elderton, Marc Arellano, Richard Knight and Jiri Bakala. 86. Radio Heads: Taking to the Airwaves | 16 April 2009 An examination of the world behind the microphones through the eyes and ears of Phil Johnson, Karin Wilson and Gary Symons. 85. Thread Bare: Celebrating the Fibre Arts | 9 April 2009 Artists Janet Armstrong, Barbara Jean Newhouse, Akira Ellen Hanson, and Heather Specken share their enthusiasm for a diverse and creative visual art. 84. The Write Stuff: The Past is Prologue | 2 April 2009 Writers John Lent of Vernon, Erika Lambert of Kelowna and Yasmin John-Thorpe of Penticton share their experience with writing groups in the Okanagan. 83. Adventure Gardening: Brave New Plant World | 26 March 2009 Naturalist and author Eva Durance, xeriscape specialist Lisa Masini, community gardening activist Teresa Banka, and horticultural therapist Kenna Bridge stimulate our green imaginations. 82. Alan Bradley: An Author in Profile | 19 March 2009 A stimulating literary journey into the life and work of successful author Alan Bradley and his sensational new book Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie. 81. The Beat Goes On: A Celebration of Percussion | 12 March 2009 Jim Copeland, Trevor Salloum, Phillip Reed and Joan Casorso for a look at the pulse of the growing and diverse drumming culture from a wide range of backgrounds - from world rhythms to jazz, fusion to Japanese. 80. Aboriginality: Telling Tales | 5 March 2009 Delphine Derickson, Roxanne Lindley and Gayle Liman discuss and demonstrate the deep influence of storytelling in Okanagan first nations culture. (This event was cancelled.) 79. Lights! Camera! Action! | 26 February 2009 Jason Woodford of the Okanagan International Film Festival, Kelly Korpesio from the Okanagan Film Commission, James Dow of CHBC and TechYou Media, Donovan Bach of the Okanagan Independent Film Society, and Denise Kenney from UBCO's Creative and Critical Studies Department take us inside the local film scene. 78. The Secret Lives of Editors | 19 February 2009 Moderator and editor Dona Sturmanis, and editors Laura Slauson, Ross Freake and Catherine Jones take us on an eye-opening journey inside their often-misunderstood world of sentence, sense and syntax. 77. Demystifying Green Buildings: An Open Community Roundtable | 12 February 2009 Moderator George Hutchison, along with JoAnne Adamson, Shane Lapp and Gustav van Niekerk, provide answers from engineering, design and construction professionals at work in the Okanagan. 76. Digging for Dirt: The Earth Beneath Our Feet | 5 February 2009 Xeriscape gardener Gwen Steele and research scientist Gerry Neilsen explore what lies beneath the surface of the Okanagan valley. 75. The Play's the Thing: Past Is Prologue | 29 January 2009 Margaret Gobie, Sean Newton, Estelle Shook, Eric Hanston and Debbie Helf lead a lively roundtable discussion on the development of the theatre in the Okanagan. 74. ArtsCare: A Community Dialogue | 22 January 2009 Karen Close, Ellen Burdett and Bev Anderson lead a lively and focussed roundtable discussion on the role of the arts in health. 73. How to Cook a Book: A 12-Step Program | 15 January 2009 Publishing veteran Robert MacDonald explores the rapidly changing publishing landscape and how writers can benefit from emerging markets and new technology. 72. Meiklejohn: Heritage & Vision | 8 January 2009 Brothers Jim and Cal Meiklejohn take us on a visual tour of their celebrated architectural designs that dot the landscape, and explore the notion of a distinct Okanagan vernacular. 71. Words of Celebration | 18 December 2008 Writers, readers and storytellers David Crawley, Delphine Derickson, Cherie Hanson, Paul Henry, Ralph Milton, Marilyn Perry and Alya Ramadan in a stimulating celebration of the season. 70. Galleria: The Inside Story of Art Marketing | 11 December 2008 Maria Carolina Sanchez de Bustamante of Ashpa Naira Gallery near Fintry, Prima Harris of Tumbleweed Gallery in Penticton and Alissa Woodside of Woodside Gallery in Kelowna take us inside the world of the private gallery owner. 69. Printed Ephemera: Inside Mark Rucker's World of Treasures & Pleasures | 4 December 2008 Mark Rucker speaks about the joys of collecting, of turning a hobby into a vocation, and shows some samples from his astonishing collection of printed materials. 68. In Praise of Patronage: The Past Is Prologue | 27 November 2008 Myles and Stephani Bruckel, Tiffany Bilodeau and Birgit Bennet share their insights and experience of the role of patronage in the development of the arts. 67. The Gift of Art: A Showcase of Unique Objects | 20 November 2008 Artists Norbert Spyth, Mohini Singh, Shelah Pansegrau, Janice Fingado, Tari DiBello, Annabel Stanley, and Laura Goldstein show and discuss their wonderful artworks. 66. CleanTech: Reinventing Constrution | 13 November 2008 Brad Clements of the Okanagan Partnership, David Mayes of the Okanagan Environmental Industry Alliance and Douglas MacLeod of the Okanagan Science and Technology Council. 65. Freelancing in the Media: True Stories of Triumph & Tribulation | 6 November 2008 Leanne Allen, Karin Wilson and Robert MacDonald explore the role of freelancers in the constantly-changing modern broadcasting and publishing landscape. 64. Let's Dance: Ballet Takes Centre Stage | 30 October 2008 David LeHay of Ballet Kelowna and Lori Larson of the Canadian School of Ballet discuss how the Okanagan has become a centre of dance culture in Canada 63. Aboriginality: A Celebration of Native Healing Arts | 23 October 2008 Rebecca Cameron, Carol Derrickson, Patricia Morven, Roxanne Lindley and Gayle Liman share personal experiences of aboriginal healing traditions throughout the Americas. 62. Gimme Shelter: Intentional Housing Solutions | 16 October 2008 Luke Stack, Jim Meiklejohn, Shelley Cook and Geoff Greenwell discuss their involvement in housing designed to meet targeted community needs. 61. Artisanal Fare: Creating Culinary Art | 9 October 2008 Frank Dieter of Okanagan Spirits, Dale Zeich of Little Creek Gardens, and Perry Bentley, chef instructor at Okanagan College share their culinary enthusiasms. 60. Re:Verse: Random Acts of Poetry | 3 October 2008 Marion Barschel, Jeremy Auld, David Crawley, Carl Hare, Janet Anderson and Valerie Stetson present a stimulating journey of discovery into the magical world of poetry. 59. Preserving the Arts in the 90s: The Past is Prologue 3 | 25 September 2008 George Traicheff of Penticton, Eileen Robinson of Kelowna, and Susan Brandoli of Vernon discuss the challenges of the arts in the Okanagan during the 1990s. 58. Housing Alternatives: Finding Solutions to the Affordability Dilemma | 18 September 2008 Lona Manning of Habitat for Humanity, Zena Ryder, founder of Kelowna Cohousing Community, and Dona Sturmanis, senior editor of Okanagan Home discuss the challenges and opportunities of affordable housing. 57. Farm Forward: The Food Chain in Transition | 11 September 2008 Three experts who have played key roles in energizing our local cuisine. Heidi Noble is a chef, co-owner of Joie Wines in Naramata and author of Menus from the Orchard Table. Donna Denison is the creator of Little Creek Dressings, and Dale Ziech is a board director with the North Okanagan Organic Association and co-owner of Little Creek Gardens. 56. By the Book: The Inside Track on Publishing | 4 September 2008 Publisher, editor and writer Jim Taylor, professor and writer John Lent and publisher Robert MacDonald offer different perspectives on how to survive and thrive in the ever-changing media world. 55. Remembering the 1980s: The Past is Prologue | 28 August 2008 Cultural pioneers Ursula Surtees and Jennifer Hindle provide a retrospective look at the development of culture and the arts in the Okanagan. 54. Housing Futures: The Design Challenge | 21 August 2008 Cal and Jim Meiklehohn, Don Elzer, Sharron Simpson, Howard Rensler and Dona Sturmanis discuss our housing expectations, challenges and concerns. 53. Aboriginality: Women and Cultural Collaboration | 14 August 2008 Five talented, outspoken and engaging women discuss the power and promise of collaboration across cultures in the Okanagan. 52. Community Spirit: Celebrating the Spirit of Kelowna Medallions | 7 August 2008 Karen Close and other mediallion artists celebrate the publication of the book, salute the contribution of Geert & Elly Maas to the arts and the community, and share stories of art-making. 51. The Past Is Prologue: Honouring Arts Pioneers | 31 July 2008 Ruth Schiller and Sigrid-Ann Thors take us on a journey of discovery through the lives and achievements of the women who forged the modern Okanagan arts community. 50. Design for Density: Planning Community Futures | 24 July 2008 Four experts explore growth, affordable housing and sustainable development in the Okanagan and how smart design informs and impacts the future: Brad Clements, Robert MacDonald, Douglas MacLeod, and Angela Reid. 49. Hot Type: Writing that Moves, Motivates and Inspires | 17 July 2008 Writers Mike Harwood, Maggie Reigh, Devon Muhlert and writer and editor Jim Taylor provide insights into the wonderful world of publishing. 48. Up In Smoke: The Meaning of Fire | 10 July 2008 Writer and ecologist Don Gayton examines the difficult choices we have to make in order to protect our communities and manage our ecosystems. 47. The Story So Far: The Virtue of Ideas Anniversary Celebration | 3 July 2008 and Celebrating our first year of critical and creative insight and discussion on topics and issues of import to the community. Hosts: Robert MacDonald & Karin Wilson. 46. Remodelling Retirement: Considering House and Home | 26 June 2008 Life planner Nigel Brown, anthropologist David Counts, and retired businessman Mel Kotler examine the options and opportunities of retirement. 45. Food for Thought: Our Culinary Culture | 19 June 2008 Exploring the often fertile, and sometimes troubling, role that the culinary plays in our lives and culture, with Cathyrn Wellner, Don Elzer, and David Bond. 44. Every Book Its Reader: A Celebration of Literacy | 12 June 2008 The joy and power of reading, with the Courier's Tom Wilson, CBC's Marion Barschel, Mayor Sharon Shepherd and others. 43. Dry As Dirt: Clear Thinking About Water | 5 June 2008 Brian Jamieson, James Baker and Nelson Jatel, three people directly involved in water issues, share their insights, concerns and predictions. 42. Derek Evans: Creator Glimpsed Serving Tea | 22 May 2008 International mediator and author Derek Evans presents his new chapbook of powerful and personal poems. 41. Good Green! Designing Practical & Fashionable Homes | 15 May 2008 Interior designer Vicki Gerrits, builder Eric Gerrits and writer Dona Sturmanis discuss the joys and benefits of green building and design. 40. Voices Uplifted | 8 May 2008 Singer/songwriter Jane Eamon and singer Barbara Samuel discuss the spiritual sources of their highly-regarded musical stylings. 39. Design 3: Content in Context? | 1 May 2008 Publisher Robert MacDonald provides insight into how the brave new media world will impact writers, artists, businesses and communities. 38. How Green Was My Valley? | 24 April 2008 Artist, analyst and journalist Don Elzer advocates that the Okanagan needs to understand - and make a commitment to - sustainability. 37. Open Studios Open Hearts | 17 April 2008 A a discussion about creative spaces featuring three engaging local artists: Shelah Pansegrau, Madelyn Hamilton and Kenna Graff. 36. The Healing Power of Creativity | 10 April 2008 Artist and writer Karen Close explores the breakthrough ideas and influence of Dr. Gene D. Cohen and Eckhart Tolle. 35. Feast & Famine: Starving Artists in the Land of Plenty | 3 April 2008 Multimedia artists, cultural critic, community development analyst and journalist Don Elzer advocates that the Okanagan needs to make a commitment to artists if it wants culture to thrive. 34. The Big Picture: Design and the Media | 27 March 2008 Publisher and designer Robert MacDonald explores the evolving role of media in society, and how the results of that evolution will effect our personal, social and business lives. 33. Harold Rhenisch: Famous, Up Close and Personal | 20 March 2008 Harold Rhenisch, award-winning poet, reads from his recent book which showcases his new and selected works, and shares his perspective on writing. Introduction by Don Gayton. 32. RenoBucks: Budgetting Home Upgrades | 13 March 2008 Ready to renovate? Join us as master renovator and remodeller Mark Vinette shares his almost 30-years experience in getting home improvement projects done well, on time, and on budget. 31. The Right to Renovate: Tools, Trends and Techniques | 6 March 2008 Writers Sandra Kochan, Dona Sturmanis and Karin Wilson share their reno woes and wonders, and offer up some perspective on what motivates women today to take on projects. 30. Design 1: Colours, Flavours and Textures | 28 February 2008 Design expert Douglas MacLeod and publisher and designer Robert MacDonald expore the role of design in business and life through their creative work and research. 29. Hail the Grandparent: The Life and Learning of Ralph Milton | 21 February 2008 Best-selling Canadian author Ralph Milton talks about his work, and his latest reflections on life as a grandparent following the recent release of his book The Spirituality of Grandparenting. 28. Sweet! A Confluence of Words & Wine | 14 February 2008 Wine experts Suzanne Mick and Tracy Gray of Discover Wines, and writers Jarrod Thalheimer and Karin Wilson explore the tempatations, tastes and textures of love. 27. Smarter Growth: The Okanagan Challenge | 7 February 2008 James Baker, Lake Country mayor, and Douglas Macleod, executive director of the Canadian Design Research Network, explore the challenges we face in creating a common future. 26. Pictoriality: The Artistic Vision of Bryan Ryley | 31 January 2008 Bryan Ryley discusses his artistic vision, his approach to painting, drawing and collage, and his eye for colour and form. 25. Hot for Habitat: Interior Design Trends and Tips | 24 January 2008 Jenny Mueller- Garbutt and Steve Dehod explore the latest interior design trends, and share their home renovation expertise. 24. Cliffehanger: The Animated Imagination of Jim Cliffe | 17 January 2008 Innovative and prolific multimedia artist Jim Cliffe shares his illustration, animation and film explorations. 23. Great Escapes: Journeys of Joy, Adventure and Enrichment | 10 January 2008 Local travel experts and adventurers Gloria Meeder, Jock Hildebrand and Carmen Lenihan take us on trips real and imagined, near and far. 22. Great Expectations: Anticipating a New Year | 3 January 2008 Smart local luminaries prognosticate a new year: architect Jim Meiklejohn, cultural manager Lorna Gunn, spiritual advisor Marilyn Perry. 21. Betweeen the Covers: Celebrating Books & Reading | 13 December 2007 Avid readers Don Gayton, Karin Wilson, Robert MacDonald and Barb Hagan present works of wit, wisdom and wonder. 20. Love & Wisdom: Let's Celebrate Romance! | 6 December 2007 Therapist and relationship counsellor Jim Bell explores the fun and fundamental questions of romance in our time. 19. The Arts & Crafts of Home Design | 29 November 2007 Designer Chantal Couture and master craftsman Augusto Carreras explore their unique inspirations, ideas and styles. 18. The Creative Voice 10 YEARS ON | 22 November 2007 Artist and professor Gary Pearson revisits the Okanagan art scene 10 years after the publication of his book. 17. Young at Art PASSING THE CREATIVE TORCH | 15 November 2007 Artists and teachers Karen Close, Sara Lige & Lee Claremont present their unique perspective on art as a living experience. » The articles by Karen Close, Sara Lige and Lee Claremont on which the event was based is available here. » A review of the event, contributed by Jeanette Dunagan, is available here. 16. Jack Whyte REFLECTIONS | 8 November 2007 Jack Whyte, internationally acclaimed for his series of books based around King Arthur and more recently the Knights Templar, discusses his latest book - his memoir Forty Years in Canada. 15. The Ages of Adventure GROWING OLDER AND BETTER | 1 November 2007 UBCO professor Mary Ann Murphy and retired anthropologists David and Dorothy Counts explore the changing landscape of aging. » The articles by Shelley Wood and Karin Wilson on which the event was based is available here. 14. Wild at Heart THE GRASS IS GREENER | 25 October 2007 Internationally-acclaimed author Don Gayton reveals his passion for gardening and reads selections from his new book Interwoven Wild: An Ecologist Loose in the Garden » The article by Don Gayton on which the event was based is available here. 13. Righteous Work LIVELIHOOD, VALUES & SPIRITUALITY | 18 October 2007 How the spiritual and professional worlds intersect for writer Karin Wilson, financial planner Brenda Fischer, and business manager Ernie Tadla. » The article by Karin Wilson on which the event was based is available here. 12. Building Dreams OKANAGAN ARCHITECTURE | 11 October 2007 Architect Jim Meiklejohn, builder Miles Krahn and the design team of Paulette & Andrea Harte reveal the secrets and surprises that define innovative Okanagan home design. » The article by Dona Sturmanis on which the event was based is available here. 11. Toiling in the Global Garden REFLECTIONS ON CRITICAL ISSUES | 27 September 2007 Derek Evans explores how beauty appears even in the midst of horror and raises questions about the human in the garden - the wars we wage on our environment, and on each other. » The article by Derek Evans on which the event was based is available here. 10. Art in Perspective | 20 September 2007 An exploration into how art influences our lives, drawing on the experience of writer Patricia Ainsley, artist Gary Pearson, and curator Liz Wylie » The articles by Patricia Ainsley, Gary Pearson and Liz Wylie on which the event was based is available here. 9. The View from Naramata | 6 September 2007 An exploration into how place influences our lives and our art through the eyes of writer Melody Hessing and artist Frances Hatfield. » The article by Molody Hessing on which the event was based is available here. 8. Viva Vernacular | ARCHITECTURE & IMAGINATION | 30 August 2007 An investigation of Okanagan architecture and design, featuring architect Nick Bevanda, cultural designer Sandra Kochan, and writer Ross Freake. » The articles by Ross Freake and Sandra Kochan on which the event was based is available here. 7. The Gift of Story | 23 August 2007 Everyone has a story to tell and storytellers Cathryn Wellner and Harry van Bommel, along with artist Dennis Weber, delve into the unique elements of our lives that makes us want to not only tell stories, but hear them - again and again. » The articles by Cathyrn Wellner, Harry van Bommel and Dennis Joseph Weber on which the event was based is available here. 6. Birds and Branches | FLIGHTS OF THE IMAGINATION | 16 August 2007 Featuring UBCO professor and poet Nancy Holmes, of Random Acts of Poetry fame, local author and journalist Dona Sturmanis and expert photo restorationist Yuri Akuney. » The articles by Dona Sturmanis, Yuri Akuney and Nancy Holmes on which the event was based is available here. 5. The Joys of Jewelry | THE ART THAT GLITTERS | 9 August 2007 Artists Janice Fingalo, Sheila Pasengrau and Deborah Wilson reveal their passion for jewelry making - the artform that spans all cultures. » The articles by Dona Sturmanis and Deborah Wilson on which the event was based is available here. 4. Discoveries | READINGS TO REMEMBER | 2 August 2007 Presentations from delightful, thought-provoking imaginations, with readings by Don Gayton and Jarrod Thalheimer, the art of Dawn Emerson, and the photographs of Laura Tucker. » The readings and images shown are available here. 3. The Art of the Labyrinth | THE WALKING MEDITATION | 21 July 2007 Lois Huey-Heck reveals the mysteries of the labyrinth and examines the history of this ancient practice and what it has to say to those engaged in their own personal spiritual journey. » The story on which the event was based is available here. 2. Everyday Spirituality | CONVERSATIONS FOR THE SOUL | 12 July 2007 Spiritual seekers, finders and explorers Marilyn Perry, Tammie O'Reilly, Birgit Schneider and Karin Wilson share elements of their discoveries in the heart of the Okanagan. » The article by Karin Wilson that inspired the event is available here. 1. Reminders and Rumours | READINGS FOR LITERACY | 5 July 2007 Readings from the delightful and thought-provoking imaginations of Sterling Haynes, Karin Wilson, Jarrod Thalheimer, Stan Sauerwein, and the photographs of Gary Nylander. » The readings and images shown are available here. PREVIOUS EVENTS IN VERNON 12. Making Peace: Defining Our Military Role | 13 January 2011 We present this topical and highly important issue of the role of Canada's military in a changing and tumultuous world. 11. Global Citizen: The Imagination of Stan Chung | 16 December 2010 In presenting his collection of best-loved newspaper essays, award-winning author Stan Chung examines community, conscience, and social conventions with an uncanny ability to probe the heart of modern society. 10. Wild Green Wonder: On Wildcrafting and Permaculture | 21 October 2010 Artists and activists Don Elzer and Gabe Cipes discuss the work they have each been doing to further a conscious environmental agenda, and a next-generation approach to agriculture. 9. The Culture of Curation | 18 August 2010 Curators and directors Paul Crawford, Nataley Nagy and Lubos Culen discuss the challenges of curating for their communities while also participating in a Canada-wide dialogue on contemporary art. 8. Making Book: Insider Secrets of Publishing | 4 August 2010 Publishing experts and entrepreneurs explore the rapidly changing publishing landscape and how writers can benefit from emerging markets and new technology. 7. Law & Order: The Interpretation of Justice | 21 July 2010 Sociologist Chris Schneider presents a startling examination of how Canadian perceptions of the law and justice are influenced by one of the most popular American crime dramas on television. 6. Woodstock Revisited: Tom Wayman on the Sixties | 7 July 2010 Canadian writing icon Tom Wayman takes us back to the time - the late 1960s - when time stood still, and dreams were busy being born, and life was simple and full of promise and endless opportunity. 5. Nature Up Close and Personal | 23 June 2010 A journey of discovery as we explore the extraordinary wonders of nature in the Okanagan with guides Roseanne Van Ee and Dave Smith as they reveal treats and treasures off the beaten trail. 4. The Case for the Creative Economy | 9 June 2010 Publisher and creative entrepreneur Robert MacDonald presents a vivid and compelling argument for why and how the Okanagan is ideally situated for a social and economic renaissance. 3. Up Chute Creek: Melody Hessing's Okanagan Idyll | 26 May 2010 Writer Melody Hessing shares stories of the changing ecological and social environment in the Okanagan, and presents what's been called "a wise, funny, heartfelt, smart, poetic memoir". 2. The Homestead: Mystery, Despair and Longing | 12 May 2010 Writer Colin Snowsell and photographer Gary Nylander celebrate the release of their remarkable new book The Frollet Homestead with a reading and photo exhibit. 1. The Creative Legacy of George Ryga | 28 April 2010 Publisher Robert MacDonald and writers Sean Johnston and Craig McLuckie explain why the works, ideas and influence of George Ryga have inspired an unique Okanagan creative collaboration. PREVIOUS EVENTS IN PENTICTON 19. The Next Big Thing | 27 October 2011 The official launch of Next Okanagan, the magazine that examines resilience, common sense, regeneration and creativity in the Okanagan. 18. That's Amore: Ricardo's Mediterranean Kitchen | 29 September 2011 Award-winning restauranteur Ricardo Scebba talks about his family, his heritage, his kitchen, his collaborators and his food. 17. Okanagan Refections: Featuring Dodi Morrison | 28 July 2011 Writer Dodi Morrison presents the just-published anthology of works from her wide-ranging writing career, which showcases her ability to get to the heart of a story. 16. Birds in Sight: Featuring Dawn Abernethy | 23 June 2011 Writer and photographer Dawn Abernethy shares her extraordinary journey to heal childhood tragedy, release old ideas of abandonment and build a joy-filled life. 15. An Okanagan Kitchen: Celebrating BC's Seasons of Abundance | 12 May 2011 The publication of the quintessential BC cookbook, drawn from the hundreds of recipes published by one of Canada's pre-eminent cooking writers, and a true Okanagan treasure. 14. What's Next: Why Small is Still Beautiful | 31 March 2011 Environmental and community activists Deb Thorneycroft and Dale Bonke, and designers Douglas MacLeod and Robert MacDonald examine the challenges of being small in a great big world. 13. Masters of Prose: Authors of Distinction | 24 February 2011 Two brilliant and original Okanagan writers - Adam Lewis Schroeder and Darcie Friesen Hossack - read from their books short-listed for Commonwealth Writers' Prizes. 12. Think Design: Architecture & the Environment | 27 January 2011 Architects and thought leaders Chris Allen and Douglas MacLeod examine the challenging interchange between the built and natural environment. 11. Global Citizen: The Imagination of Stan Chung | 21 December 2010 In presenting his collection of best-loved newspaper essays, award-winning author Stan Chung examines community, conscience, and social conventions with an uncanny ability to probe the heart of modern society. 10. The Last Best West | 7 October 2010 Merging fiction and non-fiction, award-winning author Don Gayton probes politics, conscience, ecology, and history with an uncanny ability to transform reality into magic. 9. Making Book: Insider Secrets of Publishing | 24 August 2010 Publishing experts and entrepreneurs explore the rapidly changing publishing landscape and how writers can benefit from emerging markets and new technology. 8. Tom Wayman: Woodstock Revisited | 10 August 2010 Canadian writing icon Tom Wayman takes us back to the time - the late 1960s - when time stood still, and dreams were busy being born, and life was simple and full of promise and endless opportunity. 7. The Interpretation of Law & Order | 27 July 2010 Sociologist Chris Schneider presents a startling examination of how Canadian perceptions of the law and justice are influenced by one of the most popular American crime dramas on television. 6. How to Write (& Read) A Poem | 13 July 2010 A journey into the heartland of poetry, and of the writing practice - learn how poems are written, who writes them, what and where inspires them, and why some become immortal. 5. Images and Imagination: Inside the Pictorial World of Mark Rucker | 29 June 2010 Mark Rucker showcases his rich and astonishing archive of over 300,000 pictorial images - and discusses his work and life as an artist, writer, curator, collector and cultural refugee. 4. John Lent: Poet Laureate of the Okanagan | 15 June 2010 John Lent, the entertaining and erudite "Poet Laureate of the Okanagan" reads from his exciting verse collection Cantilevered Songs and explores the role of the writer in modern society. 3. The Case for the Creative Economy | 1 June 2010 Publisher and creative entrepreneur Robert MacDonald presents a vivid and compelling argument for why and how the Okanagan is ideally situated for a social and economic renaissance. 2. The Homestead: Mystery, Despair and Longing | 18 May 2010 Writer Colin Snowsell and photographer Gary Nylander celebrate the release of their remarkable new book The Frollet Homestead with a reading and photo exhibit. 1. The Creative Legacy of George Ryga | 4 May 2010 Publisher Robert MacDonald and writers Sean Johnston and Craig McLuckie explain why the works, ideas and influence of George Ryga have inspired an unique Okanagan creative collaboration.
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Express is presented in association with the Okanagan Regional Library. Libraries are an entry into the world of knowledge: they are centres for life-long learning and directly impact the lives of Canadians each and every day. They are information and community centres where people learn, engage, discover and connect. Established in 1936, the ORL serves over 360,000 people across an area covering 59,600 square kilometres through 29 branches. Services are also offered online through the website at 