Andy and Tj In The Morning - blog

More NKOTB Tickets!! (Mar 30)

Another exciting show coming up this morning as we announce our E-Z win number at 740!  If you were at the Spall/97 Tim Horton's yesterday morning and picked up your Timmy's coffee, travel mug and E-Z win number (ALL on us!), then be listening at 740 this morning when we draw a # between 1 and 101.  If the # is yours, you have 10 minutes and 15 seconds to call us at 250-860-0101 to claim your prize of an incredible nights' stay at the Cove Lakeside Resort AND a visit to the Spa At The Cove!!

Find out more about the gorgeous Cove Lakeside Resort by clicking here:

Win "New Kids" Tickets! (Mar 30)

COME JOIN us this morning as we broadcast from another great Tim Horton's location!  We will be back at the Spall/97 location this morning handing out the fresh and delicious hot coffee, coveted travel mugs and of course, those E-Z win numbers to the first 101 people who stop by!!

That E-Z win number could net you a terrific nights' stay at the Cove Lakeside Resort and a visit to the Spa at the Cove!  WOW - that would feel good, wouldn't it?

Something else that's really exciting - we have 5th row tickets to the New Kids on the Block to give away today during Mindbender!  That happens at 7:05.  Simply answer our daily 'brain buster' and you win!  If you don't get in today... no worries.... we have 4th row tickets tomorrow, 3rd row tickets on Wednesday, 2nd row tickets on Thursday AND>>>>>  FRONT ROW tickets to NKOTB on Friday morning!

Good luck and we look forward to seeing you at Timmy's this morning!! 

Julie Gets Shock Of Her Life!

 Another SHOCKING day for one our great listeners!  We surprised the heck of out Julie Lesowski who works at Century Lane Kitchens on McCurdy Road.  She is our latest Office Shock recipient!!  How did she win??  Well it was really easy.... first, she signed up to be a VIP club member at http://www.silk.fm/ (It's SO easy and free) and then she had SILK on at work! 

When we walked in yesterday afternoon around 330 pm with Cabana Boy Claus from Veranda Beach, a beach bag, balloons....  Julie could NOT believe her eyes!  She had SILK pumping out of the small stereo at her desk, enjoying the Mark Jeffries show!!

SO Much To Do This Weekend!

There are so many different events going on ‘in and around' our city this weekend AND into next week! 

If you tuned into our show and heard us talking about "The Trek For Tourette", The Canadian Cancer Societies' "Daffodil Days" OR "Gala of Hope", "20-Minute Community Make Over" or the "20^th Annual Taste of Kelowna" and wanted to find out more.... you've come to the right place!!

Where should we start?  Well, let's see....  It's a first for our city this Sunday, March 29^th.  The Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada (TSFC) will hold it's 1^st Annual "Trek For Tourette" from 2 - 4 pm at Mission Creek Park.  It's a chance to enhance awareness of this unique neurological disorder affecting as many as one in 100 Canadian children.

Cleaning Up Our Community! (Mar 26)

What a great way to clean up your community and fill yourself up with a wonderful sense of pride and accomplishment!!  The 3rd Annual Community Twenty Minute Make-Over is coming up next Wed, April 1st at 10 am - and that's no joke!! 

Waste Reduction Facilitator Rae Stewart encourages everyone to get involved, whether you want to clean up your neighborhood, the block where your business is located, your church or school grounds!  They make it really EASY by supplying you with big orange trash bags and rubber gloves.  Just call the Regional Waste Reduction office to arrange that.  Their number is 250-469-6250 or simply pop by the Regional District office on KLO.

Last year they had a tremendous response with more than 28-hundred people picking up litter in and around the city.  As Rae puts it, "Many hands make for a speedy clean-up!" 

To register your group, you can call the number above OR visit
www.regionaldistrict.com/

THANKS in advance for making our City even more beautiful than it is now!! 

Our Wedding Winners Are.... (Mar 24)

Congratulations to the winners of our 1st ever "Andy and Tj Ultimate Wedding Contest".....  Don and Norma-Jean!!!  They received the greatest number of listener votes to win this incredible wedding package that is valued at over $20-thousand dollars!

We want to take this opportunity to congratulate the other two couples who made it into the finals.  Don and Julie and Kes and Julio!  All three engagement stories were truly beautiful and inspiring and we really wish we could have given you ALL an ultimate wedding experience!! 

Don had to fight back tears when the vote results were announced just before 9 this morning LIVE from The Cove Lakeside Resort.  Unfortunately, Norma-Jean wasn't there for the BIG announcement as she had to leave at 7 am for her brand new job as a landscaper at Creative Roots!  But, Don had her on the phone within seconds to celebrate the win together!

A Time To "Shine"!

You've got to love our job!  We get to meet some of the most incredible individuals and today was no exception.  Sylvia Martens has lived in Kelowna since 1969 and has had an active role in the local modelling community for 13 years.  For 10 years, she was the director of Sherry's Modelling and then she owned her own company, BBX Modelling Agency for 3 years. 

She has been involved with many high-profile events over the years including Bridal shows, Miss Kelowna-Lady of the Lake and the Kelowna Firefighters' Ladies Night Out. 

Her latest - and most exciting venture to date - is her brand new company, Shine Models.  She offers classes that are fun-filled and exciting, which result in self-confident young people.  Her students range in age from 6-18 and participate in beginner, intermediate and advanced classes.  Sylvia's goal is to have her students discover their strengths and become great role models!

Vernon Model Wins!! (Mar 19)

Brittney Fisher of Vernon has been crowned the winner of Canada's Plus Size Model Search, beating out some four-thousand applicants from across the country.

The 24-year-old waitress was up against nine other full-figured finalists when she found out in Toronto last night that she's won.

Fisher, who worked as a waitress, receives a one-year modelling contract, a magazine spread and a 25-hundred-dollar wardrobe.

Brittney is absolutely stunning and we wish here all the best in her future modelling endeavours!   You go girl!!

"24" Days 'Til Gala Of Hope

Today - Wednesday, March 18th marks the "24" day countdown to the 5th Annual Gala of Hope in support of the Canadian Cancer Society!  We are sincerely thrilled to be involved again this year, not only because we believe so whole-heartedly in the cause AND it's such a fun evening --> but this year, we get to work alongside a star from one of TV's most-popular series!  Boy, do we have the best jobs in the world??

The Gala Emcee this year is none other than actor James Morrison. (With a namesake like that, how can he not be famous?)  This J.M. stars in "24" - or at least he did until his character Bill Buchanan, head of the Counter Terrorist Unit on the serial action drama series was killed off just this week!  James had played Bill Buchanan during the 2005, 2006 & 2007 seasons - and of course, this year too!

The Winning Wedding Cake Is.... (Mar 17)

WOW - awesome response to our great 'cake debate'!  THANKS to every single one of you who weighed in on our choice of wedding cake.  Last week we posted three different versions of the amazing work that Evangeline does at Vangie Cakes.  (http://www.vangiecakes.com/)

Cake #1 was a more traditional, multi-tiered white fondant cake with pink rose petals.  Beautiful!

Cake #2 was known as the 'Corpse Bride' cake.  It's really cute, with vibrant colours and said "Til Death Do Us Part". The twins - Adam and Brady - LOVED that one!!

Our Finalist Couples Are.... (Mar 16)

THANK YOU to everyone who shared their engagement stories with us in an attempt to win our Ultimate Wedding contest!  This is one incredible prize package valued at over $20-thousand dollars.  As well, thanks to all of our incredible sponsors including the Cove Lakeside Resort and Haworth Jewellers!

The deadline for entries was noon on Friday and our judges deliberated ALL weekend long and this morning, we were proud to announce our three finalist couples!  They are Kes and Julio, Don and Norma-Jean and Julie and Don!  CONGRATULATIONS to you all! 
Please click on the following link to read each of these couples' engagement stories and then VOTE for your favourite to win the "Ultimate Wedding" contest!

www.silk.fm/node/894007

We will announce the winning couple on Tuesday, March 24th as we broadcast LIVE from the Cove Lakeside Resort!

Trust Fund For Elissa (Mar 13)

There is a special fundraiser happening this Sunday in support of a sweet little girl who recently lost her mom in a tragic car crash.  When 23-year old Leena Cumming lost her life while driving home on Highway 97 near Beaver Lake Road earlier this month, she left behind a 22-month old daughter Elissa.

Leena's good friend Danielle Harshenin has teamed up with friends and family to hold a silent auction this Sunday with all the money going into an RESP for little Elissa Joyce Catherine Wakeford.

The event is called "Trust Fund For Elissa", Silent Auction and Donations.

Choose Andy & Tj's Wedding Cake!

We are just over two months away from the BIG day - our wedding!!  We are so excited about the fact that we have selected who will be doing our cake!  Her name is Evangeline Neyedli and her business is called Vangie Cakes. 

She moved here from the Coast not too long ago and she came highly recommended by Emily Vanderschee at Summerhill Winery (where we are getting married May 16th).  We recently sat down with Vangie and were really excited about her work and the ideas she had for our special day.  This is where we want your help! 

We've posted three different styles of cakes that Vangie has created and we want to know which one you think we should choose.  Simply place your vote by clicking on the link.  THANKS in advance - we also encourage any comments you have.  By the way, if you want to find out more about Vangie's great creations (and there are LOTS of them)...check out her website www.vangiecakes.com.

Hospice Is The Real Winner! (Mar 10)

A huge and hearty CONGRATULATIONS to every single person involved in the 1st Annual Great West Life/Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" Celebrity Dance Off in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association!  Friday nights' SOLD OUT event at the Coast Capri was like no other fundraising event this city has seen and by all accounts, it was a massive success!!

We have just learned that $68-thousand dollars was raised at the inaugural event!  WOW - that is awesome!! Thanks everyone!!

Andy and I just can't thank the committee enough for the opportunity to be involved in such a unique, exciting and FUN fundraising event!  While we were so nervous before our performance on Friday night, we took a deep breath and enjoyed every single step in our 2 minute 40 second routine and were bouyed by the supportive crowd cheering all around us!  THANKS so much to our instructor Warren Eaton of Latinesque Dance Studio for performing a miracle!  You are the best!

It's Celebrity Showdown Time (Mar 6)

The BIG day has finally arrived!  Tonight we put our waltz lessons to the test as we participate in the inaugural Great West Life/Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" celebrity dance off at the Coast Capri, in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Assn.

To be honest with you, we are WAY more excited than we are nervous!  A lot of the jitters were calmed last night as we ran through our routine a couple of times during the dress rehearsal.  I couldn't believe how fast our 2 minute and 40 second routine went by!  We'll have to remind ourselves to enjoy and take it all in tonight, as it's going to go by so fast!

For those of you who've purchased tickets to tonight's SOLD OUT event, boy are you in for a treat!!  Andy and I were blown away by how great the other celebrity couples were during rehearsals.  John and Maria Byland are the only other 'non dance' couple competing and their Vienniese Waltz is so beautiful.  They are dancing to Lifehouses' You and Me and it's so romantic.  Maria is just a might of a thing....and during their routine, John actually picks her up and cradles her.  Awwwwwww..... if that doesn't score them lots of points with the judges and the audience, I don't know what will.  It's really something!!

Aside from the celebrity dance couples, several professional couples will also be putting on a show..... it is going to be amazing!  We are so thrilled to be a part of such an incredible evening!

By the way, our Midday gal Chanine Carr is our Emcee for the night and we know that she is going to be great! 

Again, it's all about hospice and if you'd like to still pledge us - or any other celebrity couple - we encourage you to click on the following link:

www.kelownahospice.com/calendar.html

Now, we've had several requests for a video copy of tonights' gala.  It will all be recorded, so we promise to get some - if not all of the video - posted to our blog next week.

Thanks again for all your calls and emails of support.  We know the night will go off without a hitch and hospice will be the ultimate winner!! 

Tj Dons A Designer Gown! (Mar 5)

Unbelievable!!  We are just one sleep away from the first annual Great West Life/Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" celebrity dance off in support of hospice and YES, the pressure is getting to me!  I was startled out of a sound sleep at about midnight with the most awful nightmare!  Or do they call them 'dancemares'?!?!  Let me set the scene for you...... Andy and I were at the dress rehearsal - the music to our routine started - Andy began doing the steps we've been practicing for weeks and I, just stood there!!!  I couldn't move!  I was frozen in place!  Both Andy and our instructor Warren just looked at me..... waiting for me to do someting....but I couldn't.  So, I asked if we could re-start the music and they simply said "No"!  They both agreed that if it had been the 'real event' the music couldn't be restarted and I would just have to catch up!  Needless to say, I started to cry and ran off the stage......  I'm not sure if Andy ever got through the routine on his own, as I was wide awake at that point!

Bachelorettes' K-Town Connection!! (Mar 4)

What a coup for our city!  A local gal who captured the hearts of many, many fans during her appearance on the most-recent edition of the reality TV series "The Bachelor" is about to garner a whole lot more fame!!  You see, Jillian Harris was announced last night as the brand new bachlorette, with the season premiere set for May 18th.  Jillian was born in Peace River, Alta. but grew up in the Okanagan.  Her parents, Peggy and Glen, live in West Kelowna.  Andy and I had a chance to chat with Peggy this morning about her daughters' incredibly quick shot to stardom.

Back On The Dance Floor! (Mar 3)

Andy and I are back to our waltzing ways as we gear up for the 1st Annual Great West Life/Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" gala on Friday night!  After both suffering through this dastardly bug that's making the rounds, we finally made our way back into the dance studio yesterday with Warren over at Latinesque Dance studio.  Unfortunately poor Warren had been bitten by the bug too and spent the entire weekend on the couch.  Luckily for us, he was well enough to make it in for our lesson!  (Thanks Warren, you are such a trooper!)

Another "Grape" Escape! (Feb 23)

What a weekend!  We just have to share it with you!!

Several months ago, we picked up a silent auction item at the Evergreen Gala -  it was a one nights' stay at the Naramata Heritage Inn.  It's an incredible destination that takes you back in time.  You see, the Inn was built at the turn of the century (construction started in 1907 and was completed in 1908) and has been tastefully updated over the years.  Our room was so quaint and we particularly loved the claw foot tub that was set right in the main living space.  Our room opened up to a gigantic patio where you can see Okanagan Lake and in the summer months, enjoy the sounds of a Jazz band playing in the restaurant below.

"Slum" Enchanted Evening! (Feb 23)

It was "Slum" enchanted evening at last night's 81st Annual Academy Awards as Slumdog Millionaire swept to victory with eight Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Song and Best Adapted Screenplay. The feel-good story of a kid from the slums of Mumbai who lands on the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire in a quest to find the love of his life proved irresistable to Oscar voters, beating out more serious fare like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Reader, Frost/Nixon and Milk. In his acceptance speech, director DANNY BOYLE thanked the people of Mumbai, holding up his Oscar statuette and saying that they, quote, "dwarf even this guy."

Who'll Take Home Oscar? (Feb 20)

The 81st Annual Academy Awards are this Sunday, live from the Kodak Theatre in LA.  It'll be hosted by People Magazines' Sexiest Man Alive, Hugh Jackman.  Reason enough, for Tj to tune in. :) But, if you're interested in the actual nominees, here a list of the BIG ones:

 

Best Picture

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Frost/Nixon

Milk

The Reader

Slumdog Millionaire

 

Thank You!!!! (Feb 20)

A heartfelt and HUGE hug from Andy and I - and the rest of the gang here at 101-SILK FM (Astral Media) for supporting our 5th Annual Radiothon for Children's Hospital!!

We raised almost $45-thousand dollars in just ONE day yesterday while broadcasting from Sky Court at Orchard Park Mall!  That brings our 5 year total to over $400-thousand dollars!!  We couldn't do it without you - so THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU, whether you phoned in a donation, stopped by and dropped off some cash or a cheque, OR was one of our Change Bandits this year.

On behalf of all the Okanagan families who've been helped by Childrens, "THANK YOU" for putting smiles back where they belong!

Please Call 870-KIDS! (Feb 19)

We are so honoured and proud to bring you the 5th Annual Radiothon for Children's Hospital.  It started at 6 this morning and goes until 6 pm at the Sky Court at Orchard Park Shopping Centre. It's only ONE day this year. Please stop by and see us or make a donation by calling 250-870-KIDS, that's 870-5437. 

This is always a very emotional day for each of us at SILK FM as we share with you the incredibly inspiring and sometimes heart-wrenching stories of Okanagan families who've been helped by Childrens' Hospital.  Yes, already many tears have been shed and there will be many more to come before the day is out.  We can't begin to tell you what a privilege it is to meet the doctors, nurses, staffers, parents and particularly the kids - who've graced the halls, rooms, emergency department and operating rooms of Children's Hospital.  Those caregivers are - simply put - miracle workers.

Our Brand New Home! (Feb 18)

We have a new home - the first new home for 101-5 SILK FM in almost 22 years!!!

SILK has been broadcasting out of it's original location at the corner of Pandosy and Lawrence since 1985!  But this week, that all changed!  As you may or may not know, SILK was bought up by Astral Media (formerly Standard Radio) two years ago in January.  It was always the plan to move us under the same roof as our sister stations, SUN FM and AM 1150.  That has finally happened.

On Monday morning, Andy and I were the first to broadcast our show from the BRAND NEW studios in the 400 block of Bernard Avenue.  We are located just around the corner from the old SILK building and right next door to Mosaic Books.

You should see our new studios!  We are up on the 3rd floor with a big window facing the gorgeous mountains on the Westside.  Our afternoon guy Mark Jeffries tells us the sunset on Monday was incredible!  It's quite something on the 3rd floor with our two FM stations and one AM side-by-side-by-side.  Plus our booths are equipped with the most 'state of the art' broadcast boards, mics and computers.  It looks like the cockpit of a 7-47.

If the first couple of days are any indication, then life in our new home will be great!  While we are sad to leave the place we've called home for years...it'll be nice to make new memories over on Bernard! 

Bid NOW To Help The Kids! (Feb 18)

It's a first for 101-5 SILK FM!!  We are conducting an ON-AIR auction until 5 pm this afternoon, to raise money for our 5th Annual Radiothon in support of Children's  Hospital!!  It goes tomorrow from 6 am to 6 pm at the sky court in Orchard Park. 

The good people behind Veranda Beach Resort on Lake Osoyoos and Sundance up at Big White have donated two INCREDIBLE family getaways.  One week at Veranda Beach and a weekend away at Sundance- complete with ski/board lessons, rentals and lift tickets.  The total prize value is almost $6000 - and we want you to get in on the bidding.

We Are SOLD OUT! (Feb 16)

Thank you... thank you... thank you!!  We are thrilled to announce that the 1st Annual Great-West Life/Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" Gala is SOLD OUT!!  It will be a capacity crowd on Friday, March 6th at the Coast Capri - in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association!

Now, there is still a fun & wonderful way for you to support this tremendous cause.  As you know, Andy and I are one of 6 celebrity couples competing in a 'dance off' on the evening of March 6th.  Two trophies will be awarded.  One for the couple that receives the most votes for their performance AND another for the couple that receives the most pledges for hospice, between now and then.

Want To Win Your Wedding? (Feb 16)

Today marks a rather special day for Andy and I!  Not only are we exactly three months away from our wedding - May 16th - at Summerhill Winery....but we got to announce our "Ultimate Wedding Contest"!!! 

Now, whether you are tying the knot for a second time (just like us!), wanting to renew your vows OR getting hitched for the first time, this is one contest you will want to enter!

Here are the details:

101.5 Silk FM & The Cove Lakeside Resort Present...

Andy & Tj's Ultimate Wedding Contest!

Last Minute Valentines Plans (Feb 13)

 

Still scrambling for a way to make this Valentine's Day special? Well, if you haven't made reservations at a restaurant yet -- you may be in trouble!

But if you need an idea more original than a box of chocolate,  you're in luck.

Here are a few suggestions for making the day special, from dating expert Jeff Cohen ...

• Make it a movie night: Rent a handful of your favorite romantic movies and cuddle through some great love stories.
• Give a one-hour massage.
• Write a love song or poem.
• Call up 101-5 SILK FM (250-860-0101) and dedicate a song. Make sure your honey is listening when your love is declared for all to hear.
• Create a coupon book: Make a coupon book redeemable for your mate's favorite things. Cool ideas include a 15-minute foot rub and a romantic dinner for two.
• Plan a picnic: Too cold? No problem. Spread out in your living room.

Oh and here is one more:

Hide love letters: Write several notes and stash them in places your sweetheart typically looks. The kitchen cabinets, a pillowcase, and the hamper are some common places.

Happy Valentines Day from Andy & Tj!

It's Friday the 13th (Feb 13)

Friday the 13th is a superstition about a day of good or bad luck.

The fear of Friday the 13th is called paraskavedekatriaphobia,a word derived from the concatenation of the Greek words Paraskeví (meaning Friday), and dekatreís (meaning thirteen), attached to phobía (meaning fear). This is a specialized form of triskaidekaphobia, a simple phobia (fear) of the number thirteen, and is also known as friggatriskaidekaphobia. The term triskaidekaphobia was derived in 1911 and first appeared in a mainstream source in 1953.

Last Minute Valentines (Feb 13)

Valentine's Day is all about flowers, chocolate, and jewelry, right?

Well, it is for the women, but what about the guys?

Men have been scrambling all week to come up with something special for Valentine's Day. (At least the "good" men have been scrambling.) Don't they deserve a show of appreciation that's more than a hug and a peck on the lips?

Here are a few last-minute ideas for all the women who still have to do their Valentine's Day shopping:

1. Gadget Gift -- All men love gadgets, even on a romantic holiday like Valentine's Day. There are plenty of fun little camcorders and videogames out there that will make him swoon.

Valentines Movies For Him & Her (Feb 12)

Who says Valentine's Day movies have to be sappy chick flicks?
 
Here are some stay-at-home suggestions sure to please both of you.

Sports related:

• Bull Durham
• Jerry McGuire
• Fever Pitch

Action/adventure:

• Top Gun
• Mr. & Mrs. Smith
• Out of Sight

Knights & Stuff:

• The Princess Bride
• A Knight's Tale
• King Arthur

Comedy:

Single This Valentines Day? (Feb 12)

OK, so you're single on Valentine's Day ... So?? That's no reason to sit at home watching Sleepless In Seattle and crying into a pint of chocolate chip mint ice cream.

Instead, why not take back the holiday and do one of these 8 things? ...

1. Send someone flowers -- Your best friend? Your mom? Your dad? Whose day would you brighten with a bouquet?

2. Host a mixer -- Why not host cocktails for your single friends ... and their single friends? Decorate in a Valentine's theme and start some racy "get to know you" games. You'll all have fun and romance, without all the holiday's stress.

A Valentines Surprise! (Feb 12)

Our morning got off to a bright and beautiful start, when we heard a wrapping sound on our studio windows just before 6 am!!  When we first heard the tapping - we thought there was a giant gerbil somewhere in the building.  There aren't too many live souls around the radio station at that time of day. 

So, Andy went to investigate and discovered our good friends Kevin and Zena Tucker from Enterprise Flower Studio at the front door, bearing a wonderful Valentines' arrangement for Andy and I!  It is absolutely stunning as you'll see by the attached picture.

What's In A Waltz? (Feb 11)

For those of you who are lucky enough to be involved in the world of dance, you already know and appreciate the thrill of learning a new routine!  For those of you who are 'thinking' about entering the exciting world of dance, we have to tell you it is an absolute rush and you should really take the plunge!  Or would that be a 'dip'?

Our waltz lessons continued yesterday as we prepare for the 1st Annual Great West-Life/Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" celebrity dance-off on March 6th in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association.  

Our incredibly patient and 'oh so' talented instructor Warren Eaton with Latinesque Dance Studio suggested we start wearing something more comfortable to our lessons.  Up to now, we had simply worn our work attire with clean dress shoes - but yesterday we packed along our 'workout' gear as we prepared to do our entire routine over and over again.  You'd be amazed at the glow you can work up doing a waltz -- seriously!!  With all the heavy breathing in the studio... you've got to wonder what Warren is teaching us some times!!  ;)

Anyway, we've pretty much got our entire routine down - except for a few surprises we're working on for the 'entrance' and 'finale'!  We know we will be throwing in a spin - but we've graciously asked Warren to put it in at the end.  If we did that off the top, we'd be too dizzy to do our routine.

Here is a 'step by step' description of our routine - and while it looks scary to the newbie dancers' eyes and feet.... it's really not that bad!     

1st phrase

Straight Box X 2
Left Turning Box X 1

2nd phrase

Progressive Basic X 4
Half of a Left Turning Box
Slow Under Arm Turn into

3rd phrase

Face to face - back to back

4th phrase

Half of a Straight Box
Side Twirl
Half of a Left Turning Box
Promenade Chasse X 2 (finishing on diagonal)

5th phrase

Progressive Twinkles X 4
Mans forward balance step - Lady Develope
Lady Reverse Turn
Half of a Left Turning Box

6th phrase

Straight Box X 1
Turn combination

(Grand finale - It's a secret but will definitely include a 'spin' and likely a 'smooch'!)

Ok - weeks ago the above words would have looked like Greek to Andy and I - but do you know how cool it is to not only know what they mean, but to put them into a sequence of dance moves?  It feels so empowering!!

Anyway, we are having an absolute blast and we will be practicing more and more - plus meeting with Warren more frequently - as we gear up for the BIG night!

If you'd like to purchase tickets for "Swinging With the Stars" OR pledge us online - please click on this link:

www.kelownahospice.com/calendar.html

By the way, have we told you that our very own Chanine Carr (Midday host at 101-5 SILK FM) will be our lovely, gracious MC for the night!?  She's going to be great!!  

Thanks for your support!  We'd better get back to practicing our twinkles and turn combination........ :)

Click below to listen to a waltz!

American Idol Spoiler List (Feb 11)

Season eight of American Idol is now down to the top 36!  Or at least according to one spoiler website we found. 

CHECK THIS OUT!!  Do you see your favourites making it into the top three dozen?

www.votefortheworst.com/20090129/full_list_american_idol_8_top_36

Top Romantic Love Songs! (Feb 11)

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, the NY Daily News put together a list of the "100 Most Romantic Love Songs Of All Time."

The criteria was each song had to have been in the Top 20 during the year it was released, and be at least 10 years old.

Here's the Top 10:

10. "I Can't Stop Loving You" --RAY CHARLES

9. "Michelle" --THE~BEATLES

8. "Are You Lonesome Tonight" --ELVIS PRESLEY

7. "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" --ROBERTA FLACK

Our Valentines At Veranda Beach (Feb 9)

Andy and I are so excited to share with you the most incredible destination that we discovered this past weekend!  We celebrated our Valentines' Day early, by slipping away to Veranda Beach Resort on Lake Osoyoos.  It's on the American side of the border, but only a 2 hour drive from Kelowna.  The drive down on Saturday was stunning with gorgeous sunshine warming everything and everyone!

Our gracious hosts Claus Larsen and Jim & Lisa Hammond met us as we drove into Veranda Beach at around 330 on Saturday afternoon.  They had big smiles on their faces as they welcomed us to their stunning cottage community on the shores of beautiful Lake Osoyoos. 

How You Can Help Australia (Feb 9)

Weary firefighters and rescuers pulled the remains of dozens of people from charred buildings on Monday as the death toll rose to 135 from Australia's deadliest bushfires.

"Everybody's gone. Everybody's gone. Everybody. Their houses are gone. They're all dead in the houses there. Everybody's dead," cried Christopher Harvey, a survivor from Kinglake where most people were killed, as he walked through the town.

Police believe some of the fires, which razed rural towns near the country's second biggest city, Melbourne, were deliberately lit and declared one devastated town a crime scene.

Australia's Prime Minister calls it 'mass murder'!

For those of us who lived through the Okanagan Firestorm of 2003, the images of the tragedy unfolding in Australia bring back vivid memories of the fear and devastation.  We were so fortunate to have not lost anybody during our fires.  

If you'd like to help the residents of Australia, the Red Cross has set up 25 different relief centres in Victoria, Australia.  Find out more by clicking on the link below:

www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=000005&tid=003

NEW Dancing With The Stars Lineup! (Feb 9)

As you know, Andy and I are "Swinging With the Stars" in support of hospice.  Please check out more information and pledge for us or one of the other great celebrity couples online at:
 
www.kelownahospice.com/calendar.html

Thank you!

In the meantime, the lineup for the very popular "Dancing With the Stars" eight-season was announced last night. 

Here's a rundown in alphabetical order:

 

* Belinda Carlisle, lead singer of the Go-Go's and solo artist.

The Grammy Goes To..... (Feb 9)

What a night of music!  It was the 51st Annual Grammy Awards and it would take Andy and I a couple of hours to read all the winners to you on the air, so we thought we'd post them here for your reading enjoyment!

It was a BIG night for SILK FM favourites, John Mayer and Coldplay!

Here's a complete list of the winners in key pop, rock, country, R&B, rap and video categories:

 

Record of the Year

Alison Krauss & Robert Plant, "Please Read The Letter"

 

Unique Valentines Gift Ideas! (Feb 6)

Want to shake things up a little this Valentines' Day?  Want to give your special someone a gift that stands out from the rest?

OK - here are a few great ideas! 

1. Name a Star After Your Special Someone - a proven winner!

The Valentines Day Gift is incredibly daunting to millions of people. It's a delicate balance of finding a thoughtful Valentines Day Gift that isn't overly expensive but tells people that you care about them. Some people count down the days to February 14th, dreaming of romance and love in the air. Others spend weeks stressing and worrying about what to get for that perfect Valentines Day Gift. Either way, International Star Registry has the answers for you. Name a star after your special someone.

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts! (Feb 6)

The ultimate day of love is just a week away...so still plenty of time for you to get that perfect gift for your loved one!  

Valentine's Day is the one day a year where you get to show your loved one exactly how much you love him/her. Show your love with a special gift; one that comes from the heart and will last a lifetime.

Here are 10 of the best both inexpensive and expensive gift ideas. But remember, Valentine's Day is not about money it is about sharing your love with one another.

1. A handmade Valentine's Day card - a handmade card says much more than a store bought one and will let your partner know exactly how much they mean to you.

Name A Stray For Valentine's Day (Feb 5)

Rover could become a "Roger", Fluffy could become "Fiona"!

The Kelowna SPCA has come up with a really unique and touching fundraising event to raise $$ for the shelter.  For a minimum $25 dollar donation, you can give your sweetie a loving legacy by naming a rescued pet after him or her!  Isn't that cool?

Whether it's a dog, cat, rabbit or other small animal - you can name a stray for Valentine's Day!! You also receive a certificate bearing the animals' name and photo to give to your lover or friend on February 14th.

To find out more, call the SPCA at 250-861-7722 or visit the shelter at 3785 Casorso Road.

If you do name a pet, make sure to let us know what kind of animal and it's new moniker!  We'd love to see the pic too!

On behalf of the SPCA, thank you and Happy Valentines' Day! 

We've Got Our Song! (Feb 4)

Oh boy...  things are really starting to get serious as we gear up for the Great West Life - Bracken Financial "Swinging With The Stars" Celebrity dance-off on March 6th, in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association!

We had another dance lesson with Warren yesterday and not only did we pick out our song, we also started to learn our choreographed routine!  Warren suggested we go with the Elton John/Kiki Dee duet called "True Love"....awwww....  You may remember it from Elton's Duets album in the 90's.  It's a really pretty song and we like the fact it has a more upbeat tempo than traditional waltz numbers!  Andy also LOVED the fact the first 30-40 seconds of our routine will be a 'grand entrance' - not actually dance steps!  Oops - hope the judges don't take marks off for that!

Heart Healthy Tips! (Feb 3)

Welcome to the month of love AND to heart month too!  Yes, February is the month in which the Heart and Stroke Foundation wants to remind you to 'love' your heart!  Well, they want to encourage you every month - but this is the month their awareness campaign really ramps up!

To that end, we are taking our show on the road this morning for the 30th Annual Heart and Stroke Celebrity Brekky at the Coast Capri.  We hope to see you there!  It's packed each and every year as we enjoy a delicious 'heart healthy' breakfast and learn more about the battle against heart disease and stroke.

Hey, if you'd like to know more about improving your heart health, click on this link:  

What A Game! (Feb 2)

All is right with the world!  Andy's team won Super Bowl XLIII and it wasn't the easiest victory - in fact, it was a tight game that kept us all guessing until the end.  It's funny, the kids all decided to get in on the big day and by 9 Sunday morning, Adam was completely adorned in red to support the Cardinals...Brady was black and yellow, head to toe, including face make-up to show his allegiance for the Steelers! Thanks to his big Sis Kensi for helping with that!  Interestingly enough, by the time the kickoff happened, we were all rooting for Andy's team - Pittsburgh! 

Super Bowl Snack Champs! (Jan 30)

 

Waltzing With Warren! (Jan 28)

Another waltz lesson has come and gone and we are really enjoying this whole dance experience!  Not only does it feel good knowing that we're helping a great cause...but it's a bonus to be able to try something new as a 'couple'.  If you've ever thought of taking up dancing... you really should.... it's such a great stress buster and an awesome way to get you moving! 

Yesterday, we went in to our lesson with Warren (Latinesque Dance Studio) a little more prepared than the week before because we had practiced!  It sure made a difference, as we quickly re-capped last weeks' lesson then moved on to some new moves.  

Lesson 3 brought us the 'twinkle', the 'progressive twinkle' and a 'developay'!  I'm not sure if that's how you spell it, but it requires Andy to tip me back slightly so I can do a gentle kick with my left leg.  Yippee!!  We did it and I didn't even fall over!  Actually we were moving pretty well and Warren started talking about song choices, so he could choreograph a routine for us!   We're thinking "Open Arms" - the Journey song done by Mariah Carey or another one called "True Love" by Kiki Dee and Elton John.  We'll let you know what we decide to go with!

As you know, this is all part of our training for "Swinging With The Stars" - a celebrity 'dance off' in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association.  Make sure to pledge for us OR your favourite couple online by clicking on this link:

www.kelownahospice.com/calendar.html 

Oh and here is a reminder of the other celebrity couples you can vote for:

Miss Canada International, Katherine Thomas:  She will be performing a West Coast swing with instructor Robert Sebo
 
John and Maria Byland of Byland Garden Centre: They will be dance a Vienniese Waltz with the guidance of Sharon Delparte

Realtor Diane Moore:  Nightclub two-step and Hustle with her partner/instructor Tom Selzler

Businessman Will Gow:  Argentine Tango with his partner/instructor Sharon Sebo

Rose Sexsmith of Roses'/Hanna's: She will be paired up with our Instructor Extraordinaire, Warren Eaton 

Tickets are also going fast for the actual Gala evening on Friday, March 6th at the Coast Capri.   Get yours now, by calling the hospice office at 250-763-5511

Super Bowl Bacon Explosion! (Jan 28)

Super Bowl is all set for this Sunday with the Steelers taking on the Cards!  Andy has been talking about this BIG day for weeks and he plans to show the kids what a 'real' Sunday is like!  I know Adam and Brady will definitely belly up to the Super Bowl coffee table to watch the game...but it's more about the spread of appies we will have laid out!  As for Kensington and I, we'll likely hook up the PS2 on her little TV and take each other on in an electronic game of Monopoly!

Bottom-line, it's going to be a great family day together, despite who wins the ball game!  I know that Andy would be a happier camper if his Steelers won...we'll see what happens!

In the meantime, we're encouraging you to send us your favourite Super Bowl snack recipes that we can try out this weekend.  Our fave will make it on to our recipe page for the whole world to share!  Just think?  Your best appy could make it into cyber space!!!   

Send your recipes to:

andyandtj@silk.fm

Oh and you've got to check out this link!  We've discovered the most insane Super Bowl snack...it's called the "Bacon Explosion" and it looks like a heart attack just waiting to happen.  Everything in moderation, right?  Anyway, you've got to see this beast, by clicking below:

www.bbqaddicts.com/blog/recipes/bacon-explosion/

If you try it, let us know how it is!  We're likely going to stay away from this one.... as you know, I've got to fit into a wedding dress in May!  :)

Mmm Mmm Good....! (Jan 27)

As you know, we LOVE to cook!  Our favourite time together is trying out new recipes...chopping, dicing, slicing and cooking up something new in the kitchen. It's always fun sharing our faves with you and one of our more recent recipes is really garnering a lot of ooh's and aah's - and for good reason, it is SO delicious and simple to make it!!

Here's what one of our listeners had to say about our Red Thai Curry Mussels:

Hi guys, I just wanted to tell you how unbelievable the mussels with red thai curry recipe was! It was so good - I actually added 3 Tablespoons of the red thai paste for an extra kick! My son even loved it - he's only 12!!

Thanks - that one is a keeper!

Another Great Gourmet Club! (Jan 26)

Congratulations to Lou and John Goncalves!  Our latest winners with the Gourmet Club at Manteo Resort!  We had such a great time meeting Lou and Johns' family and enjoying the delicious 5-course meal prepared by Chef Vincent at the Wild Apple Grill!  

The theme of the evening was hearty, buffet style cuisine that featured the most unbelievable bacon, tomato sandwich on a cheddar biscuit; sweet and savoury pumpkin soup; scrumptious roast vegetables; tender and tasty beef stew and a wonderful lemon tart for dessert!  The vino from Mission Hill was incredible too!

Gong Hei Fat Choi! (Jan 26)

Welcome to a brand new Chinese New Year!  This is the year of the Ox, which means we're in for a year of knuckling down and buckling down.

 

The Ox is the sign of prosperity through fortitude and hard work. This powerful sign is a born leader, being quite dependable and possessing an innate ability to achieve great things. As one might guess, such people are dependable, calm, and modest. Like their animal namesake, the Ox is unswervingly patient, tireless in their work, and capable of enduring any amount of hardship without complaint.

Ox people need peace and quiet to work through their ideas, and when they have set their mind on something it is hard for them to be convinced otherwise. An Ox person has a very logical mind and is extremely systematic in whatever they do, though they have a tremendous imagination and an unparalleled appreciation for beauty. These people speak little but are extremely intelligent. When necessary, they are articulate and eloquent.

People born under the influence of the Ox are kind, caring souls, logical, positive, filled with common sense and with their feet firmly planted on the ground. Security is their main preoccupation in life, and they are prepared to toil long and hard in order to provide a warm, comfortable and stable nest for themselves and their families. Strong-minded, stubborn, individualistic, the majority are highly intelligent individuals who don't take kindly to being told what to do.

The Ox works hard, patiently, and methodically, with original intelligence and reflective thought. These people enjoy helping others. Behind this tenacious, laboring, and self-sacrificing exterior lies an active mind.

The Ox is not extravagant, and the thought of living off credit cards or being in debt makes them nervous. The possibility of taking a serious risk could cause the Ox sleepless nights.

Ox people are truthful and sincere, and the idea of wheeling and dealing in a competitive world is distasteful to them. They are rarely driven by the prospect of financial gain. These people are always welcome because of their honesty and patience. They are reputed to be the most beautiful of face in the zodiac. They have many friends, who appreciate the fact that the Ox people are wary of new trends, although every now and then they can be encouraged to try something new. People born in the year of the Ox make wonderful parents and teachers of children.

It is important to remember that the Ox people are sociable and relaxed when they feel secure, but occasionally a dark cloud looms over such people and they engage all the trials of the whole world and seek solutions for them.

Ox Years:  2/19/1901 - 2/7/1902 (Metal),  2/6/1913 - 1/25/1914 (Water), 1/25/1925 - 2/12/1926 (Wood),  2/11/1937 - 1/30/1938 (Fire),  1/29/1949 - 2/16/1950 (Earth),  2/15/1961 - 2/4/1962 (Metal),  2/3/1973 - 1/22/1974 (Water),  2/20/1985 - 2/8/1986 (Wood),  2/7/1997 - 1/27/1998 (Fire),  1/26/2009 - 2/13/2010 (Earth)

Twinkle Toes! (Jan 21)

Andy and I were ripping up the dance floor again at Latinesque Dance Studio as we gear up for the Bracken Financial-Great West Life "Swinging With The Stars" gala in support of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association! 

Now, we learned a couple of very important things yesterday! 

1.  Don't run from work right into your dance lesson!  We made the mistake of literally racing from one location to the next and it took us a bit of time to settle in.  Fortunately Warren was so patient and had us back on track before long.  He says it really helps to have some 'commuting' time between work and the dance studio, to help settle you before taking your first step.

2.  PRACTICE is so important between dance lessons!  Andy and I were a little remiss in practicing between lessons 1 and 2, so weren't as prepared as we should've been.  This week, we promise to push the living room couch and table out of the way, so we can give our hardwood floors a little work out! 

3.  I think too much!  Yes, Andy got a kick out of that one!  Instead of letting him lead and allowing myself to step back and feel the moves/steps... I kept trying to predict our next move and that was not good.  Guess I am a bit of a control freak!  By the end of it, I had surrendered control and things worked out much better!

We got to learn some new steps yesterday, including the promenade and sashay.  Once we got those new moves feeling comfortable, we tacked it on to what we had learned last week and it felt incredible!  Warren was about to teach us the 'twinkle', but we ran out of time.  So, that's what we get to look forward to next week! 

We know the competition is going to be stiff on Gala night March 6th, so we're going to do our best to get a few practice runs in before we meet up with Warren again on Tuesday morning!

Again, we're so thrilled to be supporting the Central Okanagan Hospice Association by participating in this event.  You can do your part, by pledging your favourite Celebrity Couple at...

www.kelownahospice.com/

THANK YOU for your support!

Oh and if you're interested in taking up dance lessons, give Warren a call - you can also find out more on his website:

www.latinesque.com/

A Song For President Obama (Jan 21)

There is a moving new song that is making the rounds following the inauguration of President Barack Obama!  It's a montage of clips from his inauguration speech added to the Five for Fighting tune, "World".  Now the song is actually a couple years old - it's from the groups' fourth CD called "Two Lights".  But it's been resurrected in a timely fashion to capture the history-making significance of Barack Obama's inauguration!

In case you missed it when we aired it this morning at 7:50 am, have no fear!  Our Midday gal Chanine Carr and our Afternoon Host Mark Jeffries will both play it again...so keep listening!!

Michelle's Inauguration Fashion! (Jan 20)

What do you think of Michelle Obama's choice of dress for today's inauguration?

Click on this link to check out the pix:

www.stylelist.com/blog/2009/01/20/michelle-obamas-inauguration-outfit/

50 Facts About Barack! (Jan 20)

It's a historic day in the U.S. - and around the globe - as Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the U.S.A.!  Like you, Andy and I have been caught up in all the excitement about Baracks' election and we want to know as much as we can about this 47-year old political upstart!

We've stumbled upon 50 little known facts about the new prez and some of these are really cool!

• He collects Spider-Man and Conan the Barbarian comics
• He was known as "O'Bomber" at high school for his skill at basketball
• His name means "one who is blessed" in Swahili
• His favourite meal is wife Michelle's shrimp linguini
• He won a Grammy in 2006 for the audio version of his memoir, Dreams From My Father
• He is left-handed - the sixth post-war president to be left-handed
• He has read every Harry Potter book
• He owns a set of red boxing gloves autographed by Muhammad Ali
• He worked in a Baskin-Robbins ice cream shop as a teenager and now can't stand ice cream
• His favourite snacks are chocolate-peanut protein bars
• He ate dog meat, snake meat, and roasted grasshopper while living in Indonesia
• He can speak Spanish
• While on the campaign trail he refused to watch CNN and had sports channels on instead
• His favourite drink is black forest berry iced tea
• He promised Michelle he would quit smoking before running for president - he didn't
• He kept a pet ape called Tata while in Indonesia
• He can bench press an impressive 200lbs
• He was known as Barry until university when he asked to be addressed by his full name
• His favourite book is Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
• He visited Wokingham, Berks, in 1996 for the stag party of his half-sister's fiancé, but left when a stripper arrived
• His desk in his Senate office once belonged to Robert Kennedy
• He and Michelle made $4.2 million (£2.7 million) last year, with much coming from sales of his books
• His favourite films are Casablanca and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
• He carries a tiny Madonna and child statue and a bracelet belonging to a soldier in Iraq for good luck
• He applied to appear in a black pin-up calendar while at Harvard but was rejected by the all-female committee.
• His favourite music includes Miles Davis, Bob Dylan, Bach and The Fugees
• He took Michelle to see the Spike Lee film Do The Right Thing on their first date
• He enjoys playing Scrabble and poker
• He doesn't drink coffee and rarely drinks alcohol
• He would have liked to have been an architect if he were not a politician
• As a teenager he took drugs including marijuana and cocaine
• His daughters' ambitions are to go to Yale before becoming an actress (Malia, 10) and to sing and dance (Sasha, 7)
• He hates the youth trend for trousers which sag beneath the backside
• He repaid his student loan only four years ago after signing his book deal
• His house in Chicago has four fire places
• Daughter Malia's godmother is Jesse Jackson's daughter Santita
• He says his worst habit is constantly checking his BlackBerry
• He uses an Apple Mac laptop
• He drives a Ford Escape Hybrid, having ditched his gas-guzzling Chrysler 300
• He wears $1,500 (£952) Hart Schaffner Marx suits
• He owns four identical pairs of black size 11 shoes
• He has his hair cut once a week by his Chicago barber, Zariff, who charges $21 (£13)
• His favourite fictional television programmes are Mash and The Wire
• He was given the code name "Renegade" by his Secret Service handlers
• He was nicknamed "Bar" by his late grandmother
• He plans to install a basketball court in the White House grounds
• His favourite artist is Pablo Picasso
• His speciality as a cook is chilli
• He has said many of his friends in Indonesia were "street urchins"
• He keeps on his desk a carving of a wooden hand holding an egg, a Kenyan symbol of the fragility of life
• His late father was a senior economist for the Kenyan government

How To Beat The Blahs (Jan 19)

Feeling kinda down?  If so, you're not alone!  According to a new UK study, today - the third Monday of January - is said to be the most depressing day of the year!  Why?  It's a combination of things including cloudy socked-in weather, debt, the time that has past since Christmas and failing your New Years' resolutions!

So, we want to help you Beat the Winter Blahs and we've stumbled upon a list of great ways to do that!  Check these out:
 

Step1

Clean out your closets/re-organize. Now is the time to get to that stuff around your house that you see in the summer that needs work. Plus it feels good to give to the people who needs it.

Step2

On the not so freezing cold days, open a window some to let in some fresh outside air.

Step3

Bring plants in. Liven it up inside.

Step4

Perk up the place with bright colors. Not with paint but with tangible things that remind you of summer.

Step5

Go tanning if this is something you do.

Step6

When you are finally able to motivate yourself outside. You will truly enjoy taking a walk into the woods. Things look differently. You can hear outside for what it's sopposed to sound like. No lawnmowers or chainsaws. Quiet and calm. The weather is different but you still get that outdoor energy back that you feel you have lost.

Step7

This is also a time where you can begin planning your garden.

Step8

Put bird feeders right outside your windows. Set a salt block out for deer. Anything to attract the animals to you which shows life.

Step9

This would be a good time to do the things you've always wanted to do. You can't cut grass but you can read up on crafts or other things you have always wanted to learn about.

Step10

If you have a fireplace, gather around it with the family and tell stories, etc.

Step11

Exercise. This will help you sleep better at night as well.

Step12

Don't eat heavy. Stick to beans instead of pasta. But remember folks, we are spending more time in-doors right now, with all of the windows closed....so make sure you purchase some Beano !

Swinging With The Stars! (Jan 19)

It's official!  "Swinging with the Stars", sponsored by Bracken Financial Services and Great West Life has officially kicked off!  This unique fundraising event for the Central Okanagan Hospice Association is a first for Kelowna and we are so thrilled to be a part of it!

The good people at hospice have gathered up six celebrity couples to train and then compete in a "Dancing With The Stars"-type gala on March 6th at the Coast Capri Hotel.  Tix are going fast, so get yours now by calling COHA at 250-763-5511.  It's going to be some evening!  Your $125 ticket includes a delicious dinner, the celebrity dance competition, a professional dance show and then some social dancing afterwards! 

Two trophies will be handed out on the night of the event.  First, for the celebrity couple that garners the most pledges for hospice between now and March 6th AND secondly, for the celebrity couple that receives the most votes from the judges and the audience that night!

We'd LOVE it if you voted for us by making a pledge at
www.kelownahospice.com/   but, honestly --->  you can vote for whomever you like!  It's all in support of an incredible cause, so the more pledges the better!

Here is a list of all the celebrity couples and their respective dances:

Andy and Tj:  Traditional Waltz (thanks to our incredible instructor Warren Eaton at Latinesque Dance Studio!!)

Miss Canada International, Katherine Thomas:  She will be performing a West Coast swing with instructor Robert Sebo
 
John and Maria Byland of Byland Garden Centre: They will be dance a Vienniese Waltz with the guidance of Sharon Delparte

Realtor Diane Moore, Canadian Premier Properties/Christies Lifestyle & International Properties:  Nightclub two-step and Hustle with her partner/instructor Tom Selzler

Businessman Will Gow, Owner and GM of Operations; Career and Business Development Network:  Argentine Tango with his partner/instructor  Sharon Sebo

Rose Sexsmith of Roses' Waterfront Pub/Hanna's Lounge and Grill: She will be paired up with Warren Eaton (the lucky gal), but we're not sure which dance those two are doing.... maybe they're keeping it a secret! 

This is going to be a wonderful evening and talk about putting the "FUN" back into fundraising!
 
Please log on to http://www.kelownahospice.com/ and pledge for your favourite couple right now and know that you are supporting an incredible cause that is so important to our community, the Central Okanagan Hospice Association. 

Pick Your Favourite Pair! (Jan 16)

It's official!  "Swinging with the Stars", sponsored by Bracken Financial Services and Great West Life has officially kicked off!  This unique fundraising event for the Central Okanagan Hospice Association is a first for Kelowna and we are so thrilled to be a part of it!

The good people at hospice have gathered up six celebrity couples to train and then compete in a "Dancing With The Stars"-type gala on March 6th at the Coast Capri Hotel.  Tix are going fast, so get yours now by calling COHA at 250-763-5511.  It's going to be some evening!  Your $125 ticket includes a delicious dinner, the celebrity dance competition, a professional dance show and then some social dancing afterwards! 

Two trophies will be handed out on the night of the event.  First, for the celebrity couple that garners the most pledges for hospice between now and March 6th AND secondly, for the celebrity couple that receives the most votes from the judges and the audience that night!

We'd LOVE it if you voted for us by making a pledge at
www.kelownahospice.com/   but, honestly --->  you can vote for whomever you like!  It's all in support of an incredible cause, so the more pledges the better!

Here is a list of all the celebrity couples and their respective dances:

Andy and Tj:  Traditional Waltz (thanks to our incredible instructor Warren Eaton at Latinesque Dance Studio!!)

Miss Canada International, Katherine Thomas:  She will be performing a West Coast swing with instructor Robert Sebo
 
John and Maria Byland of Byland Garden Centre: They will be dance a Vienniese Waltz with the guidance of Sharon Delparte

Realtor Diane Moore:  Nightclub two-step and Hustle with her partner/instructor Tom Selzler

Businessman Will Gow:  Argentine Tango with his partner/instructor  Sharon Sebo

Rose Sexsmith of Roses'/Hanna's: She will be paired up with Warren Eaton (the lucky gal), but we're not sure which dance those two are doing.... maybe they're keeping it a secret! 

This is going to be a wonderful evening and talk about putting the "FUN" back into fundraising!
 
Please log on to http://www.kelownahospice.com/ and pledge for your favourite couple right now and know that you are supporting an incredible cause that is so important to our community, the Central Okanagan Hospice Association. 

A & T's Wedding Planner! (Jan 16)

 We've got a very exciting day in store as we get to meet up with our wedding planner, Emily Vanderschee at Summerhill Pyramid Winery!!  When we got engaged a couple years ago, we knew that we wanted to be married at a winery... as we love the vineyards and of course, we love wine!!  We did a little investigating and found that Summerhill is really the only winery that will host a full wedding, complete with ceremony, reception, etc...  So we immediately booked our day, because Summerhill is extremely popular for weddings and is usually booking a year in advance.

Today, we'll be chatting with Emily about '09 menu prices, table set-up, the cake, PA system, etc...  We've chosen to go with a more informal low-key wedding, with an afternoon ceremony followed by a light reception complete with Summerhills' famous Cipes Brut, wine and tapas.  Right after the ceremony and while we're having our photo's taken by Kim Elsasser http://www.kimsphotography.com/ - our guests will be treated to an incredible tour of the winery, complete with a visit to the world-renowned Pyramid.

If you're thinking about booking Summerhill for your wedding, better book fast - as they are already scheduling into 2010!!

Here is the link:

www.summerhill.bc.ca/

Oh and check out this picture of the Vineyard Terrace - that's where our ceremony will be held on May 16th! 

FOG BLOG!! (Jan 16)

Another foggy day here in the Valley and already, more cancelled and delayed flights at Kelowna International Airport.

For the latest on departures at YLW, click here:

www.kelowna.ca/CM/Page858.aspx


For the latest on arrivals at YLW, click here:

www.kelowna.ca/CM/Page857.aspx

Fog & Flights Don't Mix (Jan 15)

It's going to be another 'pea soup' kind of day in terms of fog in our area and that means more cancellations and delays at Kelowna International Airport!

To get the latest on arrival and departure information at YLW, please check out the following links:

For arrivals:

www.kelowna.ca/CM/Page857.aspx

For departures:

www.kelowna.ca/CM/Page858.aspx

We're Going With A Waltz! (Jan 14)

So....  we arrived at Latinesque Dance Studio yesterday for our first of many lessons as we prepare for the Hospice Association's "Swinging With the Stars" Gala in March! 

We went in thinking "Tango", we came out dancing "Waltz"!  Yes, our amazing instructor Warren decided that it would be better to go with a waltz as we have our wedding coming up in May...so we said "Sure!"  Quiet honestly, I think Andy was relieved.... he was worried the Tango may have involved a little too much movement and footwork!  After our one hour lesson, I think Warren was 'bang on' selecting the waltz for us as we both managed to grasp the basic steps without too much fuss - and no injuries!!  In fact, Andy blew me away with how light he was on his feet and how he remembered all the steps and movements.  It was so much fun!!  Warren taught us the basic 'box step', the 'half box step', a five step, underarm turn (I think that's what it's called!) .... we even went so far as to start learning the unmistakable 'rise and fall' action which gives the waltz a look of grace and beauty.

Now, we'll never claim to be "Fred and Ginger"...but we actually did pretty good and we had a blast dancing together.  At times, we were concentrating so hard as we looked at one another, we burst out laughing.  It was hard to remember our steps at that point!

If the first lesson is any indiciation, we are going to have so much fun preparing for the BIG celebrity showdown in March.  Again, we are raising much-needed money for the Central Okanagan Hospice Association. 

Other celebrities include Rose Sexsmith from Roses' Pub, Miss Canada International Katherine Thomas, Realtor Diane Moore, Businessman Will Gow as well as Maria and John Byland from Byland's Garden Centre!   

You can vote for your favourite celebrity dance couple online at www.kelownahospice.com  and we encourage you to also come out to the "Swinging With the Stars" Gala, sponsored by Bracken Financial Services and Great West Life on March 6th at the Coast Capri.

To get your tickets, call the COHA office at 250-763-5511

In the meantime, Andy and I will be practicing our new waltz steps and looking forward to our 2nd lesson next with Warren next week!    

A & T Swing With The Stars (Jan 13)

We are about to embark on a challenge that we've never, ever encountered before.... atleast not as a couple!  Today is our first of 10 dance lessons as we prepare for a terrific fundraiser that comes up in March!

The Central Okanagan Hospice Association presents "Swinging With the Stars", sponsored by Bracken Financial Services and Great West Life!  This incredibly unique fundraising initiative takes a page directly out of the highly-popular reality TV show "Dancing With the Stars" and features celebrities from around town!  Not only have Andy and I signed up, so have many others including Maria Byland from Byland Nurseries and Rose Sexsmith from Roses' Pub. We all take dance lessons and then compete in the Grande Finale on March 6th at the Coast Capri.  All monies raised support the Hospice Assn.

To secure your tickets now - as we know they're going fast - call COHA at 250-763-5511

We've had a chance to meet our instructor - the amazingly talented Warren Eaton of Latinesque Dance Studio....but today, we get down to business!  It appears we will be tackling a Tango.  It was so funny as we packed our dance/gym bag at the house this morning, as we weren't sure what to bring along.  So, we've got everything from running shoes to high heels - and that's just Andy's bag!  :)

It's going to be interesting to see how we make out...but we're really looking forward to it!  I've had a bit of dance experience ('bit' being the operative word) and used to figure skate for many, many years.  But for Andy, this is a whole new thing.  However, his mom is ballroom dancer... so I'm sure he'll have a natural ability.  He does with most activities he takes on.

We'll touch base with you tomorrow and let you know how lesson 1 turned out.  In the meantime, if you have ever thought of taking up dance lessons (more and more adults are), check out Warren's website:

http://www.latinesque.com/

Warren is terrific and who knows, one day you may be "Dancing With The Stars"?!
 

Golden Globe Winners (Jan 12)

Here's everything you need to know about last night's 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards:

THE "SLUMDOG" SWEEP
Slumdog Millionaire went from underdog to Big Dog last night, sweeping the Golden Globes with wins for Best Drama, Best Director, Best Soundtrack and Best Screenplay. The DANNY BOYLE-directed film about a kid from the slums of Mumbai who appears on the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire was the feel-good movie of the year, and despite its mostly unknown cast and unusual storyline, it came from behind to beat higher-profile Oscar favorites like Frost/Nixon and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. In fact, those two films, plus Doubt, led the Globe field with five nods each, but all were completely shut out.

When he accepted the Best Director Award, Danny Boyle thanked the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, who hand out the Globes, saying, "Your mad, pulsating affection for our film is deeply appreciated."

The WOODY ALLEN film Vicky Cristina Barcelona was named Best Comedy. Wall-E was named Best Animated Film.

KATE WINSLET WINS, WEEPS
KATE WINSLET, who's made no secret of the fact that she desperately wants to win an Oscar, is well on her way thanks to the two Golden Globes she picked up last night -- one for Best Supporting Actress for The Reader and one for Best Actress in a Drama for Revolutionary Road. It was only the third time in Globes history that someone had won two acting awards in the same year, according to awards show expert TOM O'NEIL of TheEnvelope.com.

These were Winslet's first major Hollywood awards after numerous Oscar and Globe nominations and she was absolutely beside herself while accepting both. When she came to the podium early on for The Reader, she was breathless and could barely speak, saying, "You have to forgive me -- I have a habit of not winning things." She nearly set her trophy down on the stage, thought the better of it, and then proceeded to give an extremely lengthy acceptance speech, finishing by saying, "To my children...look! I won!"

Winslet was even more emotional while, accepting her Best Actress trophy for Revolutionary Road. When she was given a cue to wrap up, she said, "You have NO idea how much I'm NOT wrapping up," and gave another lengthy speech, apologizing to the actresses she beat, including MERYL STREEP, and telling her co-star LEONARDO DICAPRIO how happy she was to be able to let him know how much she's loved him for the last 13 years. She also thanked hubby SAM MENDES for directing the movie, quote, "and killing us every day."

Other actresses who won last night included Brit SALLY HAWKINS, for her role in the MIKE LEIGH comedy Happy Go Lucky; ANNA PAQUIN, for her role in HBO's True Blood; LAURA DERN, for her role in HBO's Recount; and LAURA LINNEY, for HBO's John Adams. The HBO historical drama scored four total wins last night, including Best Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for TV.

LEDGER'S LEGACY ASSURED
The late HEATH LEDGER's unforgettable role as The Joker in The Dark Night won him the Golden Globe last night for Best Supporting Actor, as expected. Director CHRISTOPHER NOLAN, accepting on his behalf, said, "All of us who worked with Heath...accept with an awful mixture of sadness but incredible pride." He said the actor would be, quote, "eternally missed, but never forgotten."

Ledger is now a strong favorite to not only snag an Oscar nomination, but to perhaps become only the second person ever to win an Academy Award posthumously. PETER FINCH, star of Network, was the first. The Oscar nominations will be announced on January 22nd, the one-year anniversary of his death.

MICKEY ROURKE: COMEBACK KID
Hollywood wrote him off years ago, but last night, MICKEY ROURKE was the comeback kid, scooping the Best Actor prize for his role as a washed-up wrestler in the movie The Wrestler. Rourke joked that he uncomfortable speaking publicly and said that he wanted ROBERT DOWNEY JR. to "come up here and talk for me." But he gave an eloquent speech about how happy he was that people were willing to take a chance on him and his talent, saying, "It's been a very long road back for me." He also thanked his many dogs, both living and dead.

Rourke's buddy BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN won the prize for Best Original Song for composing the title track of The Wrestler, and Rourke also gave a special shout-out to AXL ROSE of GUNS N ROSES, who allowed the production to use the song "Sweet Child O' Mine" free of charge.

Other actors who picked up prizes last night included COLIN FARRELL, for his role in the comedy In Bruges; JON HAMM for Mad Men; GABRIEL BYRNE for HBO's In Treatment; ALEC BALDWIN, for 30 Rock; and PAUL GIAMATTI and TOM WILKINSON, both for HBO's John Adams.

STEVEN SPIELBERG HONORED FOR LIFE'S WORK
STEVEN SPIELBERG was given the Cecil B. DeMille award last night in recognition of his achievements as the most successful director of all time. He recounted how the late director DeMille was responsible for his career, because after his dad took him to see DeMille's 1952 film The Greatest Show On Earth, Spielberg became obsessed with recreating the train wreck in that film with his own Lionel train set, and then filmed the train wreck so he could watch it over and over again.

Spielberg also added that there's one particular feeling that has, as he put, "haunted me throughout my entire movie career." He explained, "Whenever I've tried to tell a risky story, whether it's about sharks or dinosaurs or aliens or about history, I'll always be thinking, Am I going to get away with this?'"

COMEDY, COCAINE, TECHNICAL COCK-UPS
Many of the presenters and honorees at last night's Golden Globes treated the event as though it were a stand-up gig at a club. Presenter RICKY GERVAIS actually did a brief comic monologue, saying to Kate Winslet, "I told you, you do a Holocaust movie and the awards come!" He also complained about Hollywood Foreign Press' failure to nominate his movie Ghost Town for any awards, saying, "That's the last time I have sex with 200 middle-aged journalists."

While presenting an award, COLIN FARRELL sniffed, and then made a cocaine joke, saying, "I still have a cold. It's not the other thing that it used to be." The second such joke of the evening came from SETH ROGEN, who complained that if he had been presenting a Golden Globe in the 80s, he would've been able to, quote, "do cocaine with Mickey Rourke" instead of just getting drunk with him.

When 30 Rock was named Best Comedy, star TRACY MORGAN took the mic and said that he and TINA FEY had made a deal that if BARACK OBAMA won, quote, "I would speak for the show from now on." He then announced, "I am the face of post-racial America! Deal with it, CATE BLANCHETT!" Later on, when TINA FEY was named Best Actress, she said, "If you ever feel too good about yourself, they have this thing called the Internet, and you can find a lot of people who don't like you there. I'd like to address some of them now." She then proceeded to tell a handful of supposed online haters, quote, "You can suck it!"

The technical screw-ups during last night's Globes telecast were extremely annoying. Though all the bad words were bleeped out, the cameras often seemed to be focused on the wrong thing or person, and some presenters seemed unsure of what they were supposed to be doing. The fact that the audience was extremely loud and chatty didn't help either. In fact, at the start of the show, first presenter JENNIFER LOPEZ had to get everyone's attention by saying, "Hello! Hello! Mama's talking!"

Kim Captures A & T's Wedding (Jan 10)

We are absolutely beside ourselves!  We just came from our first meeting with our wedding photographer, Kim Elsasser.  What an incredibly genuine, professional and caring man.... not to mention a creative and cutting edge photographer!  We were sooooo lucky to secure him for our big day on May 16th.  Kim is a very popular guy and in high demand, not only for weddings, but for family and commercial photography.  We are so thankful he took time out of a busy Saturday to meet with us... and we loved the fact that he brought along his daughter Jamie, who is a budding photo-journalist in her own right!  What a sweetheart..... you've done a great job Dad!!

We had the great fortune of meeting Kim a couple of years ago at a Gala function that we were MC'ing.  We always knew that we'd call upon his services one day.  We've been meaning to get new family portraits...but you know how it is, you just keep putting it off.  Well now with the wedding coming up, we can take care of everything at once and we have the best photographer to make it happen.

We encourage you to check out Kim's website:

www.kimsphotography.com

Kim's slogan is "The Art of Photography" and simply put, Kim is quite the artist.  You can see for yourself by checking out some of the awesome images on his website.  Oh, and if you have any specific questions, please feel free to contact him directly at kimsphotography@shaw.ca

You'll never meet a nicer guy whose passion for capturing lifes' greatest moments is infectious! 

Pothole Problems!? (Jan 9)

Careful as you're driving around town!! 'Tis the season for potholes and there are some monsters out there!  The weather of late has created the perfect conditions for HUGE potholes..with all the snow, melt, freeze, snow, melt, freeze, etc.  There was a particularly bad one on Highway 97 in front of Fabricland, northbound.  Several vehicles lost a tire or two.... some suffered even worse.  Fortunately, that bad boy has since been filled!

Hey, if a pothole gets the better of your vehicle... you can make a claim with the Ministry of Highways.  Find out more at this link:

www.th.gov.bc.ca/claims/

Good luck and safe driving out there!  You never know when the next pothole will sneak up on you! 

Gorgeous Wedding Bouquet! (Jan 9)

We just received the most incredible email from Melanie who heard us chatting yesterday about wedding flowers and the top trends for 2009!

Melanie married the love of her life, Roger, last February and shared this wonderful note with us:

Andy and TJ,

My husband and I heard you on Thursday morning talking about your

expedition to find the perfect wedding flowers. As you were talking I was

saying outloud in the car - calla lily's....go for calla lily's. We just

got married last February (not the first time either) and I had the most

fabulous burnt orange and cream calla lily bouquet, hand tied. It is a

great choice and I cried when I first saw it. A girlfriend (designer

florist) did it for me. I would be happy to forward a picture if you like - let me

know.

Melanie


Yes, Yes, please send us a pic -and she did!! 

We just had to attach a picture of Melanie's wedding bouquet, it is absolutely stunning!!  We'd also love to hear from you about which flowers you chose for your special day.  Just drop us a line at andyandtj@silk.fm
 

Hot Wedding Flowers for '09! (Jan 8)

You may or may not know, but we are tying the knot this May and now that 2009 has arrived, it's time to finalize some of the big wedding plans!

Yesterday, we paid our first visit to our florist, Enterprise Flower Studio on Enterprise!  It was our first meeting with Zena Tucker and she is so incredible!  Not only is she sweet, but boy, does she know her stuff?  We had a bit of an idea going in, but Zena did a terrific job of giving us some incredible ideas that will be perfect for our special day.

We definitely wanted to go with a clean, classic approach and knew that Calla Lillies would be part of the package.  So, that's what my bouquet and Andy's boutinniere will consist of.  So will Kensington's corsage and Adam and Brady's boutinnieres- theirs will feature mini Calla's!  But for the signing, cake and food tables - we've decided to go with something a little different.  Have you ever heard of Anthurium?  It's gorgeous, clean and elegant.  It kind of looks like a Calla Lilly that has been opened up.  It will be perfect in nice tall clear vases with some luscious green grasses!!  And it'll tie in nicely with the Callas!

Hey - if you need some great, friendly advice on flowers for your wedding, contact Zena at http://www.enterpriseflowerstudio.com/

Oh, by the way - here are some of the hot trends for flowers in 2009!!

Today´s brides are following the old adages, "less is more" and "use your imagination" The sayings may be cliche - but the latest trends in wedding flowers are anything but...

Daring Colors:
Gone are the days of adhering to light pastels and muted shades in wedding decorations. Today´s brides are opting for bold and interesting pairings of colors in their wedding flowers and floral schemes. Not afraid of mixing purples and orange´s, the post-millennium color palette is expanding.

More than Just Flowers:
Mix it up a bit by incorporating produce. One of the hot trends in wedding flowers is arrangements featuring fruits, herbs and even veggies as a playful and fun approach. Their naturally vibrant colors coincide with the daring color trend. Many brides are also turning to the woods for inspiration. Green grasses add dimension and structure and can elicit a warm, summery feeling. This list of unique wedding decorations has even more blossom-free arrangement ideas.

Dynamic Tables:
Table arrangements are also becoming more dynamic. Instead of conforming to identical floral arrangements on each table, some brides are using different containers, varying the heights, or grouping an assortment of low centerpieces together.

Keep it Simple:
Gone are the days of overpowering floral arrangements adorned with excess filler flowers. Today´s brides opt for a more natural and tailored look to their wedding flowers. One bouquet style rising in popularity is the hand tied bouquet. The fresh bunch of flowers presents the look of simple elegance that brides desire.

Heads Up For Hwy Closures!! (Jan 7)

A lot of snow followed by mild temps and rain has forced the closure of several main routes.

To get the latest information, simply click on the following Drive BC link:

www.drivebc.ca/majorEvents.jsp

Hockey Time in K-Town (Jan 6)

The best of the best in midget hockey will show their stuff in Kelowna this week!  The 30th Annual Kelowna International Elite Midget Hockey tournament starts tomorrow with games at Memorial and Rutland Arenas. 

It'll all get underway with the "Battle of the Bridge" - featuring the Kelowna Rockets Midgets taking on the Westside Warriors Midgets at 6 pm, Wed. Jan 7th at 6 pm at Memorial Arena.  Opening ceremonies actually start at 530pm.

It's going to be a great few days of hockey!

Find out more and get the teams' schedules at www.kimmt.com

WIN An Ice Wine Getaway! (Jan 5)

What a way to start off a New Year! We want to send you to Sun Peaks Resort in Kamloops for a little skiing, some ice wine tasting and A WHOLE LOT of relaxing!

All this week with Mindbender, you have a chance to win a couple of lift tickets to Sun Peaks Resort and you will qualify to win an incredible Ice Wine Festival Getaway!  You will have a 1 in 5 chance of winning! 

So, tune in tomorrow morning for Mindbender at 7:05.  We'll have lots of fun sharing some crazy trivia with you and who knows?  You could be heading off to Sun Peaks to enjoy Ice Wine Festival which runs Jan 12-18, 2009.

Find out more on their website www.sunpeaksresort.com

Help With Resolutions! (Dec 31)

When it comes time to making your own New Years' resolutions, here are some guides to help you make resolutions that you really can keep.  They come from the website www.unityonline.org


Create an exciting vision of yourself and the life you desire. Spend time in prayer and meditation and tap into divine wisdom and guidance to bring your vision into complete fulfillment.

• Harness the passion you feel for your dreams. If the goals you seek to attain reflect your true self, you'll experience tremendous energy and enthusiasm. Joseph Campbell said it best: "Follow your bliss." Trust the yearnings of your soul.
• Write down a plan of action for accomplishing your goals. Magical things tend to happen when you put pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).
• Set short-term, measurable goals and assess your progress periodically.
• Use affirmations for new beginnings daily.
• Be gentle with yourself. Major changes take time, effort, and perseverance. Don't be surprised if you should encounter setbacks and challenges. Instead, be prepared to overcome them.
• Forgive yourself for any mistakes and celebrate the small victories and little breakthroughs. Remember many people give up achieving their goals when success is just around the corner.
• Establish a support system. Accept the strength of others to supplement your own. Offer encouragement to others engaged in making life changes. With a network of support, you will be stronger than you would be alone.

Good luck!

Top 10 Of Everything 2008 (Dec 30)

'Tis the season for Top 10 lists everywhere!  With just a couple days left in 2008, we just couldn't resist and came across a terrific website for you to find out all the Top 10's of everything!

It includes the Top 10 BREAK-UP'S!  Comedians Jimmey Kimmel and Sarah Silverman made the list, so did Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers.  But # 1 - not surprisingly - Madonna and Guy Ritchie!  After 8 years of supposed wedded bliss, that superstar coupledome came crashing down! 

The list also includes the Top 10 BUZZWORDS for '08!  It features words like "Staycation", "Hockey Mom" (thanks to VP Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin), "Bailout" - and the #1 buzzword for the year, "Change" - thanks to US President-elect Barack Obama!

You can also find out about the Top 10:

TV SERIES

MOVIES

FLEETING CELEBRITIES

GREEN STORIES

FASHION FAUX PAS'

LATE NIGHT JOKES

and many more..............

So, if you're bored at work today and want to sneak a peek.  Go to www.time.com and click on the 'Best and Worst Lists' tab at the top and you'll find the TOP 10 Everything lists there!

Enjoy and join us tomorrow morning as we talk about New Years' Resolutions!!  Call 250-860-0101.  We're on the air from 545 am to 9 am! 


 

Getting Back On Track! (Dec 29)

With Christmas now behind us, the damage has been done. If you're like us, you relaxed quite a bit over the past month or so -- and enjoyed food more than normal.

Now's the time to get back to your more normal and healthy eating habits.

Here are some nutrition, fitness and health tips to get you back on track:

1. Relatives still here? Go on a long, brisk walk or run.

2. Eat more dark green veggies. Try broccoli and kale.

3. Keep a food diary. Surveys show that writing down all you consume significantly boosts weight loss.

4. Register for a 5K walk or run and make it a long-term goal.

5. Fill your kitchen with healthy, natural foods to improve your health and the environment.

6. Drink more water. There's nothing better for boosting wellness, fitness and weight-loss chances.

7. Have it your way. Don't be afraid to special order at restaurants to remove fats, oils or bread you don't need.

8. Clip a picture of your favorite athlete and put it on the fridge for motivation.

9. Go crazy for fruit. Experiment with fresh, frozen, canned or dried.

10. Launch an office challenge. See if co-workers are willing to walk during breaks and eat more healthful lunches.

11. Turn off the TV. Go outside and play.

12. Eat more plant-based foods. It's the single best way to improve health and lose weight.

13. When at the fast food drive-thru, order fresh fruits, salads and grilled menu items.

14. Don't skip meals. Your body uses calories all day; depriving it makes no sense.

15. Use oil sparingly. Better yet, use cooking spray or nonstick cooking pans.

Chip It, Don't Chuck It! (Dec 29)

When you are finished with your Christmas tree, provide an eco-friendly disposal by Chipping it, not chucking it!

For free Christmas tree chipping, drop your tree off at any of the following locations through January 25th:

Kelowna and Area:

• At the corner of Richter and Rowcliffe.
• Glenmore Landfill (Hours: 7:30am-4:45 pm, closed Dec. 26 and Jan.1)

Westside:

• Westside Landfill (Hours: 8:30am-4:00pm daily, closed Jan.1)

Lake Country:

• Swalwell Park (located on Bottom Wood Lake Road)

Peachland:

• Old Dump Site (Spring Creek Pit)

Please remember to remove all decorations and tinsel as well as bags used for transporting the tree.

For more information, call the Regional District Waste Reduction Office at 250-469-6250.

Boxing Day Survival Tips! (Dec 26)

Last Minute Gift Ideas! (Dec 22)

Running behind on your purchasing of holiday gifts this year? Do you also feel like you don't have enough money to buy that perfect gift? You're not alone. But the good news is that some of the best gifts are cheap or may not even cost any money at all. Here are five:

1. Homemade Coupons. Corny right? Maybe, but they make great gifts for a loved one, especially a wife or husband. Perhaps maybe even a booklet of coupons would be a better option then just one. Make some saying free backrubs or massages, free home-cooked meal, and or breakfast in bed. Or if you dislike your significant other's favorite sport, make a free coupon saying you'll go play with them and try to learn the game. (Obviously don't go in thinking you'll hate it. If you don't like it enjoy your time with them!) But doing that shows you're willing to please. This is also a great gift for kids to make for parents. Make your mom and dad a coupon saying you will wash their car, take the trash out, pick up the den, even plant bulbs in the spring or mow the lawn.

2. Board Games. Family board games like Monopoly or Battleship are fun and help family bonding. For couples, another board game that needs to be mentioned is Romantic Rendezvous. This game can put some zest back into your love life and get you communicating with each other. This game is played with two people (duh!) and cards are drawn as you move along the board that either force you to communicate personal thoughts, or tell you to do personal acts of intimacy such as a back rub. This is game is only for adults though. Sorry kids!

3. Bake for them! A fun holiday gift is to bake cookies or a cake for somebody. Find out their favorites, and do your best to make it for them. If anything, the thought will count here. Not only is this pretty inexpensive, but if it turns out well you have something new you can bake year-round for others.

4. Photo Albums! This could get expensive, but if you stick with mostly 4 x 6 snapshots then the photos are pretty cheap. Photos make a great gift because they're a great way to remember good times. It's something that the person can look back at for a long time. If you leave space you can even add to it as more memories come and go.

5. Coffee Date! This gift isn't so much about a cheap cup of coffee as it is about the allotment of time that you get to spend with this person. Catch up and just talk about whatever comes to mind. The companionship you show will be more appreciated then some expensive but otherwise meaningless gift.

Never forget that it isn't money that makes a great gift. It's the thought put into it that makes it great.

You've Got To See This!!! (Dec 19)

Did you happen to catch a song we played this morning, by the group "Straight No Chaser"?  It's their very unique version of the Twelve Days of Christmas!

The acapella group consists of 10 students from Indiana University and they are something else!!  It turns out they recorded this song in 1996, but it really gained popularity when it recently hit YouTube and went viral.  Over 9-million of us have now checked it out.  You can now as well ....by clicking on the link below.  After you've seen it, let us know what you think!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8

Battling Holiday Weight Gain! (Dec 18)

The Christmas party season is upon us. There are parties with friends, families, and coworkers. There will be wall-to-wall food for the next four weeks straight. There will gifts of food, random food on tables in the break room and Christmas cookies everywhere.

On top of that, time is short, stress is high and there's little time left over for exercising.

But, according to weight loss experts, a few simple steps can keep you from packing on the pounds ...

1. Don't starve yourself before a party -- That usually backfires. It's just too hard to have self-control when you're hungry. Instead, have a pre-party snack so you won't arrive starving and dive into the food.

2. Pick the best -- Instead of sampling everything, simply pick your very favorite foods.

3. Make a plan -- Write down a step-by-step plan for how you will make it through the holidays. Realistically plan for everything, parties, dinners -- and give yourself permission to indulge during special occasions.

4. Make your family traditions healthier -- Get some fun physical activity into the mix. Go for a walk to see the Christmas lights in your neighborhood or strap on some ice skates. Even the simplest activity can be fun at this time of year.

5. Don't yo-yo -- Don't try to lose weight now in anticipation of gaining over Christmas. Your body will think it's yo-yo dieting which over time, can decrease immunity, increase blood pressure, and increase your chances of regaining weight fast.

A "Fine" Stocking Stuffer! (Dec 17)

If you LOVE Big Band music - then you need to grab up this CD to add to your collection!  Robert Fine is out with his latest musical creation and it's available to purchase just in time for Christmas!

Back in September, we were fortunate enough to introduce Robert at a special night at the Rotary Centre for the Arts, in support of the BC Cancer Foundation.  Robert teamed up with more than a dozen members of the Dreamland Big Band for a 'live event' recording.  22 songs were recorded and are now on this new CD.  Robert's even thrown in a holiday favourite "It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year"

When you buy your disc, 100-percent of the proceeds go to the BC Cancer Foundation!  Isn't that great??

Here's where you can pick up Roberts' new CD:

Jakx Neighborhood Grill on KLO
Mosaic Books on Bernard
Ramada Hotel on Harvey
Total E'Clips Salon & Spa on Lakeshore
The Cove Lakeside Resort on Gellatly Rd
Sunshine Market on Lakeshore
BC Cancer Foundation on Royal Ave.

It's a perfect stocking stuffer idea for those who love the sounds of BIG band AND more importantly, it supports a tremendous cause.

Enjoy!

The Worst Holidays Gifts (Dec 16)

Thanks for all your calls this morning about some of the worst (or atleast humourous) Christmas gifts you've received over the years!  The list included a minature outhouse, garbage bags, toilet cleaner, a lump of coal and feminine hygiene products!  Yikes!

With the help of our Midday gal, Chanine Carr, we stumbled upon a website that lists the TOP 10 worst holiday gifts you can give somebody.  The complete list is found at http://www.stupid.com/  It includes 'wasabi-flavoured gumballs' - YUCK!!  A 'potty putter'!  Why read a book on the toilet ...when you can practice your golf swing?

There are plenty of other loopy ones... so check out the list!

And join us tomorrow morning as we give you the chance to win the SILK FM Greatest Christmas Hits CD!  It's sold out everywhere, so tune in TO WIN!

Bryan Adams In Kelowna! (Dec 15)

What an incredible pre-Christmas gift!!  We were so happy to announce that Bryan Adams is coming to Kelowna to perform a rare solo acoustic show in the New Year! It'll be at the Kelowna Community Theatre on Monday, February 9th at 8 pm.  Tickets go on sale this Friday morning at 10 am through Ticketmaster!  You know they are going to go fast!  There is a ticket limit of four per person!

CONGRATS to Justine Cruz who won a pair of FRONT ROW tickets this morning by correctly identifying all the songs in our Bryan Adams montage!! 

For those of you who missed it, the songs were:

1.  Heaven
2.  Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?
3.  Back To You
4.  Straight from the Heart
5.  Everything I Do (I Do It For You) 

WOW - what a show it is going to be!  Keep listening for your chance to win tickets! 

Christmas Tree Tips (Dec 15)

Nothing beats the smell of a fresh Christmas tree. But few things are as dangerous as a dried-out tree sitting in your living room.

There are ways to minimize the risk:

• Make sure your real tree is fresh. It will be less likely to dry out and become a fire hazard.
• Before you buy from your local Christmas tree vendor, examine the needles. Bend them between your fingers. They shouldn't break. Tap the tree gently on a firm surface. If an excessive amount of needles fall to the ground, it's too dry. Scotch pines tend to shed more needles than other types of Christmas trees.
• Make a fresh cut on the trunk of the tree before you place it in your tree stand. The cut will help the tree absorb water. About two centimetres from the bottom should do.
• Leave the tree outside - out of the wind and sun - until it's ready to decorate.
• Water the tree often. The stand should hold at least four litres of water. Do not let the water level dip below the cut line. If you do, the cut will seal and the tree will stop absorbing water.
• Secure the tree to keep it from tipping. Many of the newer "wide base" stands offer much more stability than older stands.
• Keep tree away from floor heaters, fireplaces and other heat sources, as well as electrical outlets and electrical sources.
• Remove the tree when needles begin to fall off in large quantities. NEVER burn your tree in a fireplace. Most municipalities recycle Christmas trees, turning them into mulch.

Please Help Us Stuff A Bus! (Dec 12)

A hearty 'thank you' to everyone who stopped by to see us at the Wal-Mart in Westbank this morning to help us 'Stuff A Bus'!  Despite the chilly wind and threat of flurries... many of you took the time to come fill up the transit bus with goodies for the Westside Food Bank!

It turns out the Westside Food Bank alone will help over 200 families this holiday season.  You can help in all sorts of ways!  You can donate non-perishable food items, baby basics like formula and diapers, frozen turkeys or roasting chickens...or even simply drop some $$ in our food bank donation bin!  It is ALL so appreciated!!

Our favourite moment was when a little sweetheart by the name of Daisy brought us a donation of Kraft peanut butter.  She is only 6 years old and said that she and her mommy had come to Wal-Mart to get her some lunch for school and she wanted to help other kids!
What a doll!

You can't miss the bus - it's parked right outside the Westside Wal-Mart and will be there all weekend! In fact, Andy and I are looking forward to doing our "Weekend Edition" from there on Saturday from 2-6 pm.

If you can, please dig a little extra deep this holiday season and donate to those men, women and children who really, really need it.  Nothing makes your heart more warm than by helping out.  And given the forecast we have in store, let's get ourselves warmed up from the inside, out! 

And from the bottom of our hearts..... thank you!

Tackling Holiday Stress (Dec 10)

The holidays can cause total chaos and turn into a stressful occasion if you're not careful. This year, take care of yourself and use these stress relaxation techniques for staying stress free during the holidays.

Stress Free Holiday Tip #1: Stay healthy. Focus on your health during this holiday season and it will probably make a much bigger difference than you could ever imagine. Pay attention to what you eat. Stay away from junk food and nibbling throughout the day. It's hard not to taste-test your dishes, but remember that every bite adds up to pounds and inches.

Stress Free Holiday Tip #2: Stay fit. Make a special effort to hit the gym as often as possible. The holidays are a stressful time and everyone is rushing around in a flurry of commotion. Stop and make time to stay fit. Even if you can only fit in a 30-minute workout twice a week, that's better than nothing. You can work out a lot of your frustrations in a single 30-minute workout.

Stress Free Holiday Tip #3: Stay calm. When you feel anxiety rising, take a deep breathe and hold it in for a ten count. Slowly release your breathe, then take another deep breath in. Repeat this simple exercise three or four times, until you feel calm again. Remind yourself that you are only one person. You can't do everything all at once or on your own. If you need help, ask for it. Do whatever it takes to keep yourself calm.

Stress Free Holiday Tip #4: Stay happy. When you are stressed out to the max, it is difficult, at best, to find a ray of sunshine. However, if you are unhappy, everyone around you will notice this. Follow the three tips above, then smile. Sometimes smiling, even when you don't feel like smiling, will lighten your mental load. Give it a try. Smile and be happy.

Stress Free Holiday Tip #5: Don't do it all. We often overload ourselves during the holidays, promising to bake cupcakes for school, cook dinner for all the family, volunteer at the shelter and buy gifts for everyone we've ever known. There really is no need to do so much. Yes, it's great to give back but do it within reason and don't stretch yourself too far.

Try to remember what the holiday season really is all about and take some time to follow these stress relaxation techniques and enjoy this special time of year.

Best Homemade Christmas Gifts! (Dec 9)

It's a great way to save $$ and really add some care and heart to your gift-giving this year!  We're talking about giving 'homemade' gifts at Christmas.  We've compiled a list of the TOP 10 best homemade Christmas gifts, in the hopes you may incorporate some or all of these into your plans.

Here they are:

Family Photo Albums or CDs. I would include this in any list regarding homemade Christmas gifts because it's essential to do this at least once. People love having all their photos together in one place as well as seeing photos they've never seen before from other collections. Dig through grandma's garage and find her old box of photos. Print out some from your own collection. Ask your aunts, uncles and cousins for any photos of the family. You can buy a photo album at a cheap price at local Dollar Tree stores or craft stores like Michael's or Craft Warehouse. Some albums also allow you to decorate them with scrapbook supplies.

Calendars. Using the photos you collected for the above task, you can also assemble a calendar for the family. My husband's aunt has done this as a homemade Christmas gift every year and I've never heard anyone complain. The family is always excited to receive this gift and they know that they don't have to buy a calendar for themselves, plus every year they get to see new photos of their siblings, cousins, and parents as the featured photo of the month. You can find templates for making calendars on your computer right in Microsoft Word, or on websites like Printable Calendar Templates.

Sachets. A sachet is a quick, cheap and easy project that makes a fantastic last-minute homemade gift. You just need fabric, a tiny bit of sewing skill (or at least the ability to tie a bow with a ribbon), and the ingredients to put inside the sachet, and wa-la! You have a sweet-smelling sachet for family members to use as potpourri in a bathroom, stick in their luggage, or hang in their closets. Here's an easy guide on how to make your own sachet, and AC user Mary Ward discusses how the more ambitious gifter can even make their own potpourri!

Homemade Bath Products. Everyone needs to relax after the holidays and there's nothing like a homemade body scrub or bubble bath to take the tension out of your family's muscles. You can buy clear jars with lids from the dollar store, some liquid soap, essential oils, and some unflavored gelatin to make a basic bubble bath recipe. To spice it up, put bows around the bubble bath jars or print out labels, and mix some seasonal confetti into the liquid. Here are some more specific instructions on making bubble baths and other bath products.

Food Baskets or Mixes. Food items are a classic homemade Christmas gift idea, and they can win over your family's hearts and stomachs in one go. Just try to choose your food gifts carefully; some people may be disappointed by a food gift or may be unable to enjoy your gift due to allergies. Check out my guide on "Top Five Food Gifts for Filling Bellies" on AC for more ideas and resources.

Ornaments. This gift has a catch. It's best utilized when giving a new family or new couple a present for their first Christmas together. Ornaments are pretty exciting Christmas gifts when you don't have anything else to put on your tree, especially if it's homemade by someone you love. Commemorate their first celebration by buying glass bulbs or even using old light bulbs and decorating them with glitter, paint and other fun things. More established families may have plenty of ornaments in their collection, though, so try to be selective!

Fridge Magnets. Yep, you can make these at home, too. Determine who will be the recipient of this homemade Christmas gift and then get to work: take photos of them, print your own collection of words, even design a puzzle. Paste whatever you make to cardboard backings, then glue a magnet to the back. This will truly entertain family if you can come up with a creative way to use this gift! This is especially fun for bored children.

"Survival Kits." Grab a bucket or a large plastic container and throw together a survival kit for your family members. There are hundreds of survival kit ideas, so you can personalize each one for the recipient. Make a power outage survival kit by including candles, first aid supplies, a multi-tool, some duct tape, and batteries, or a more generic Christmas survival kit that includes Tylenol, Peppermints, a CD of Christmas music, and some gift tags, among other things. This homemade Christmas gift is limited only by your imagination and the number of people you are presenting with gifts.

Personalized Stationary. This is another Christmas gift that allows for a lot of creativity but requires a little more skill with design. You'll may need a printer that can handle printing high quality pictures on heavyweight paper. However, there is also the option that you can use rubber stamps and art tools, if you're a hands-on kind of person. If you're really dedicated to making this the best handmade Christmas gift ever, you can even make your own paper!

Homemade Dry Erase Boards. It seems like a crazy idea, but did you know that glass will work just as well for a dry erase surface as whiteboard? You probably did know that - but did you think about making your own dry erase boards? You can buy regular frames and glass inserts from just about any local store, slip out the glass, put in a white piece of paper and any suitable decorations and then slip the glass back in. Then you suddenly have a super-classy dry erase board to give your family members. Mish Mash shows you here how they chose to use this great idea.

There are lots of other ideas out there, especially ideas that are perfect for more specific circumstances and people. Look around until you find the right homemade Christmas gifts for your family, then unleash your inner crafter and go to work!

Holidays On A Budget! (Dec 9)

The holidays are suppose to be a joyous time of year, but everyone knows the shopping can take the joy right out of things.  If you have a lot of gifts to get this year, planning is the key to not going insane.

Try following these 8 holiday shopping tips from AOL shopping.com:

1. Make a shopping list and do your research.
When it comes to pricy items like electronics, give yourself more time to read up on products and reviews so you know exactly what to buy. Write down prices and model numbers. You'll see lots of deals, but don't get suckered into buying an item you don't know much about, no matter how cheap it is.

2. Budget yourself.
Decide what's the most you're willing to spend. Keep a record of prices you see online or in store ads, so you can plan your budget. If you're really trying to limit spending, take a few items off your list that you could do without. Once you've created your budget, stick to it -- a few impulse buys can really add up!

3. Look for coupons and special offers.
Don't miss a chance to save even more by bypassing a coupon, rebate, or promotion code. There are a few online sites for special deals -- just do a search for "coupons."

4. Save on shipping.
Free shipping is pretty easy to find and with the holidays here, it'll be everywhere. If you don't find it on a retailer's site, call their customer service number. Another way to save is to pick up the item in the store instead of having it shipped.

5. Shop around.
You'll score the best deals when you comparison shop, either online or in store ads. But be wary of "Going out of Business" sales, which tend to jack up the price and then offer minimal discounts, so you only think you're getting a good deal.

6. Beware of buyer's remorse.
Read the fine print and save your receipts! Make sure you're familiar with the return policy. Keeping receipts in your wallet or purse can pay off when you spot a steal at another store -- some will match the competition's price.

7. Be guarded with gift cards.
They have 3 big plusses: they're compact (great for traveling), they're everywhere, and are a no-brainer gift. But shoppers must stay on top of expiration dates and store closings. Opt for a multi-store gift card instead.

8. Compare prices.
There's no reason to pay full price. Comparison shopping websites allow you to shop for the lowest price before heading to the mall.

Secret Santa Tips (Dec 8)

Today is the day we kick off our "Secret Santa" here at SILK FM and we are looking forward to spoiling our recipients!  Now, we'd tell you what we got them...but we can't because if they read this blog we'll blow our respective covers!

A new survey shows that 40% of offices will partake in some form of gift-giving this year.  So, we thought we'd pass along some Secret Santa gift-giving tips!  Hope these help!

Most importantly, Secret Santas should remain secret!

Also:

-don't buy embarassing presents
- wrap the gift nicely
- give them something fun
- if you really are lost for what to give, a bottle of wine is never going to upset anyone (except perhaps tea-totalers)

Oh and here are some tips for gift-giving at the office:

1. Keep it voluntary. Opting out of office gift-giving games should be free of consequences, Boggs said. "You have to be cognizant of people's feelings and the holidays they celebrate and be respectful of that. If someone doesn't want to be involved you shouldn't make them feel horrible about not being involved."
2. Weigh a gift to the boss carefully, since others may perceive it as inappropriate or an attempt to curry favor. "A way around that is to chip in and give a group gift," Brown-Volkman said. "If it's a department gift it has to come from the department. It's an entire group so no one's left out." The objective is to strive always to be seen as fair, she said. "From a company standpoint it's OK for the boss or employer to give you something. But if it's the other way around, you don't know how you will be seen. The group covers you and also makes you look good."
3. Be mindful of income differences and financial pressures when soliciting group gifts. Let everyone in the working group sign the card, regardless of their ability to contribute to the cost of the gift, Boggs said. "You have to be careful not to be exclusive of the people who can't afford it," she said. "It turns a good thing into something potentially bad." Some in the office may be struggling to pay off student loans or credit-card debt, or may have greater family responsibilities than others. "People who live paycheck to paycheck or feel like people are pitying them or doing it for reasons other than what they're doing it for, that's when the issues come up."
4. Don't present a gift to someone you don't know well just because it's the holiday season. "Don't wait until that day or it may come across the wrong way," Brown-Volkman said. "It's a celebration of the great working relationship all year.
5. Gifts among peers are best exchanged off site and after hours to avoid anyone feeling excluded. "Go to lunch with them, have a cup of coffee in the morning with them before work starts," Boggs said. "Take it off site. Make it a nonwork issue."
6. What if you receive an unforeseen gift? Do you reciprocate? "I think you could," Brown-Volkman said. "It's OK for your peers. It's just when you go to the boss -- sometimes that could be construed as favoritism." Also consider power and gender differences, Boggs said. "When you have a female supervisor and a male employee or a male supervisor and a female employee, you always run the risk of things being taken out of context or taken wrong. You have to be really careful."

A & T Fail Drivers Test! (Dec 4)

What an incredible eye opener!!  As you know, Andy and I participated in a media challenge yesterday with DriveWise BC.  It was a two-part driving test that included a driving test ON the road AND behind the steering wheel of a driving simulator.  We're quite ashamed to admit that we both failed miserably! 

I've got to be honest that when I returned from my driving test with instructor Jim, I thought I'd done a pretty good job!  I'd been scanning the intersections, never sped, changed lanes carefully, was even engaged in friendly coversation, etc.  But you wouldn't believe what I missed OR messed up on!  As we returned to the driving school and I placed the Honda Civic in park, Jim said "Tj, if you were taking an actual test, you would've failed!"  WHAT??  Turns out I failed to shoulder check at several intersections where I made a right hand turn, I failed to do a 360 degree check while parallel parking, I stopped on the white lines at several STOP signs...instead of stopping before and rolling up to them!  Oh no!!  I won't even tell you how bad I did on the simulator when I was texting and driving.  It was truly scary!

As for Andy, he experienced many of the same issues (failing to shoulder check, rolling up to a STOP sign, etc.) BUT >>>  the worst was Andy speeding through a school zone!!!!  He didn't realize until he was half-way through that he should've slowed down to 30km!  He was clocked at 43 km!  Turns out that if you are caught going 31km's in a school zone, you automatically fail!

Bottom line - we are both a little embarassed - however appreciative of the fact we were given the opportunity to realize that our habits need to be changed AND we need to update certain driving techniques.  To that end, we plan on taking a refresher course with DriveWise BC.

What about mandatory re-testing for those who've had their drivers' license for years?  Do you think it should happen and if so, how often?

Please drop us your comments... we'd love to hear from you!   

By the way, if you want to find out more about the many safety programs offered by DriveWise BC.  Check out their website www.drivewisebc.com

Andy Is Put To The Test! (Dec 3)

Andy has a terrible habit....he loves to use his Blackberry behind the wheel!  Now, he's not as bad as when he first got the phone a couple months' back, but he still has a tendency to text/talk at the most inopportune times.  Just the other day, we almost drove off the road while he was driving AND responding to an email!  YIKES!!  In my panic-stricken state I yelled, "Put that thing down!"  Honestly, it is a bone of contention between us, but he just doesn't want to give it up......sooooo.....

Today, Andy will be put to the 'official' test to show exactly how dangerous it is to text while driving!  We've been invited to partake in the DriveWise Canada Safe Driving Week Media Challenge.  This is a brand new program offering State-Of-The-Art driving simulators as part of the new drivers curriculum.  While DriveWise recognizes the number one killer of youth today is a car crash, they also believe mature drivers (like Andy and I) need to update our skills and learn new techniques and terminology!

So today we will undergo a 15-20 minute driving evaluation with a qualified instructor.  We will also be put through a test of texting while driving, talking on a cell while driving and driving while impaired!  It's going to be interesting to see the results AND most importanly, if it curbs the big guy from using his Crackberry behind the wheel.

Tune in tomorrow morning, we'll let you know how it went!!

12 Days of Christmas Costs More! (Dec 1)

Given the economic downturn, even the most romantic might balk at the $86,609 price tag for the items in the carol, "The Twelve Days of Christmas."

That's this year's cost, according to the annual "Christmas Price Index" compiled by PNC Wealth Management, which tallies the single partridge in a pear tree to the 12 drummers drumming, purchased repeatedly as the song suggests. The price is up $8,508 or 10.9 per cent, from $78,100 last year.

"True loves may take it on the chin for a peck on the cheek," said Jim Dunigan, managing executive of investment for PNC Wealth Management, which has been calculating the cost of Christmas since 1984.

In this tight economy, what's a romantic to do?

The creative but cash-strapped consumer might consider some modifications. After all, who needs dozens of birds?

Instead of two turtle doves ($55) why not two Dove chocolate bars at about buck each? Don't have $4,414 for 10 lords-a-leaping? How about a "Riverdance" DVD? Plenty of leaping there, and it's only about $25 on Amazon.com. Save a couple grand by skipping the 11 pipers piping and getting a CD of Scottish bagpipe music for less than $20.

"The price of creativity, I think, has to be measured against the value of true love," said Dunigan. "Necessity is the mother of invention. So this year, it might pay to be a little more inventive."

While some sources suggest the gold rings actually refer to ring neck pheasants - apparently, all the birds were for feasting - Dunigan advises sticking with jewelry.

"At least my experience, if you had to lead with something, gold rings probably wouldn't be a bad idea," he said.

They are down about 11 per cent, from $395 last year to $350, the result of pressures on discretionary spending, Dunigan said.

But sticklers for tradition might also save by procrastinating. With the economy in its first consumer-led recession since the early 1980s and energy prices falling as of late, prices could come down between now and Christmas, Dunigan said.

PNC Financial Services Group Inc. checks jewelry stores, dance companies, pet stores and other sources to compile the list. While it is done humorously, PNC said its index mirrors actual economic trends.

For instance, gasoline costs topped $4 this summer, driving up shipping costs for many goods. So a pear tree that cost $165 last year will cost $220 this year. (The partridge is up $5 to $20.) Luxury items are also up, as reflected by the price of the seven swans-a-swimming, which are up 33 per cent to $5,600.

But the faltering economy has also brought down the cost of some items.

The three French hens (down $15 to $30) and six geese-a-laying (down $120 to $240) reflect declines in food prices.

The eight maids-a-milking will cost 12 per cent more, $52.40 from about $47 last year, thanks to their second annual minimum wage increase.

The 10 lords-a-leaping, 11 pipers piping and 12 drummers drumming are all up about 3 per cent, reflecting the general average wage increase.

Celebrate The Season in Song (Nov 28)

These ladies are terrific and sure to help you get into the holiday spirit!  Kelowna's Celebration Singers will be rocking around the Christmas tree this season with a multi-generational holiday performance at St. Michaels' Cathedral.  It's next Friday, Dec 5th - with doors opening at 7 pm!  Tickets are $15 dollars for adults, $10 for students and children, 12 and under!  

The evening will also feature the Gala Youth Choir and the Mount Boucherie singers in a presentation of traditional and contemporary holiday favorites directed by award-winning local singer, music teacher and choir director Kim Kleineberg.

To find out more call Dini @ 250-769-8053 

Staff Party Do's and Dont's (Nov 28)

According to the Quintessential Careers website QuintCareers.com, there are lots of office party do's" and "don'ts."  Here are just a few of 'em:

• Do remember that although office parties are intended as social events to reward employees and raise morale, they remain strictly business events.
• Do act as though your behavior is being observed every minute (because it probably is).
• Don't pass up the invitation to an office party; not attending could hurt your reputation. And when you attend, do spend at least 30 minutes at the party for appearances. But don't overstay your welcome by partying until the wee hours.
• Do conduct yourself professionally at all times.
• Don't use the office party as an excuse to blow off steam. It's still a company function, so proper etiquette and decorum matter.
• Don't bring the party lampshade, gag gifts for the boss, or any other crazy stuff you might do at a personal holiday party.
• Do enjoy yourself at the party. Employers spend the big bucks to reward their employees, so be sure to enjoy the only holiday gift you may be getting from the company.
• Don't pull the nightclub attire from your closet for the event -- and do ask whether the attire for the party is formal or casual. The party is still a business function, so conservative party clothes are a good choice. So, do remember to skip anything too revealing or too flashy. Keep your reputation for good taste intact.

20th Annual Downtown Christmas Light Up (Nov 28)

This Saturday is the 20th Annual Downtown Christmas Light Up! This year's Light Up includes day-long activities in the Cultural District with Santa at the Kelowna Community Theatre and wagon rides for everyone to enjoy! Being that this is our 20th Annual, we've added a few more holiday festivities to enjoy including, arts & crafts, entertainment by Robert Fine, Ellen Churchill & Teena Goudy, a carolling cruise aboard the Fintry Queen and much more! For further information on this signature DKA event please go to www.downtownkelowna.com or call us at 250-862-3515. See you on Saturday!

Andy & Tj Help Heat Things Up (Nov 26)

With temperatures set to dip to -8 tonight, we thought we'd come up with a couple fun ways to heat things up!!  Join us tomorrow morning as we give you the opportunity to win BEAT THE BOX OFFICE tickets to gorgeous singing sensations Il Divo!!  They are coming back to Prospera Place on May 28th and we can't wait!  Tickets for Il Divo go on sale on Monday morning, but you can WIN them tomorrow morning with Mindbender at 7:05am!

If that's not hot enough for you....then how about checking out the new outback epic "Australia", starring the recently-crowned Sexiest Man Alive, Hugh Jackman!?  The movie opens at the Grand 10 and Paramount today and we'll give you the chance to win a double movie pass tomorrow with our "Aussie Food or Aussie Dude?" trivia game.

Good luck! 

The Sally Ann Needs You (Nov 25)

'Tis the season for the familiar jingling of the Salvation Army kettle bells!  The annual campaign is underway and Major Les Burrows says they are in desperate need of people to stand at the kettles this year.  They have 21 kettle locations -- so lots of volunteers are required.  Burrows says they need only about an hour of your time!  If you want to help out, call 250-860-2329!

This Christmas Kettle Campaign target is $205-thousand this year!

Coping With Holiday Company (Nov 24)

Here we are -- one month before Christmas Eve!!  Can you believe it!?  So, are you preparing for family and/or friends to pour into town to stay with you this holiday season?  With the new, BIGGER home - we are easy targets for extra company... and yes, it's going to be busy around our place and could also prove challenging.  While we love each and every one of our family members....  there is definitely a sense of apprehension that comes along with welcoming certain individuals into our space.

Women's Health magazine recently asked its readers about spending the holidays with their in-laws.  Here's a sampling of what they said. 

Holidays with the in-laws means:

48% -- laughter and good times

23% -- holding my tongue until it's numb

17% -- compromise after compromise

12% -- constant wine refills

The good news is they also offered a big tip for coping:  Remember that each family has it's own customs, traditions, and brewing arguments.... but keep in mind you're not going to change them, so don't bother.  The best tactic is to leave your version of your reality at the door and accept that you've wandered into another universe.  And that it will end, eventually. 

When all else fails, we have some incredible local wines to choose from!! 

Hey, if you have some great coping ideas - please drop us a line!

Pet Pix With Santa (Nov 24)

It's time to get Rover and Fifi to give us their best smile!  This Saturday, November 29th is the 3rd Annual Pet Pictures with Santa at Doggytopia!!  It's a fundraiser for the Kelowna Humane Society and runs from 10 am until 3 pm.  You don't have to book an appointment, simply stop in to Doggytopia at 1054 Ellis Street.

There will be FREE coffee and cupcakes for our human friends and treats for the pets! 

To find out more, go to www.doggytopia.com

Sexiest Man Alive! (Nov 20)

So.... guess who has been named the Sexiest Man Alive by People Magazine for 2008?  Is it Brad Pitt? Uh uh....  Is it George Clooney?  Nope, not this time!  It happens to be gorgeous Aussie Hugh Jackman!!  He's a triple threat: a star who can sing, dance and wield a weapon. At 6 ft. 2 in., all scruff and biceps,  the 40-year old proves that some really do get better with age! 

Others on the most "Sexy" list include:

* DANIEL CRAIG, Quantum of Solace

* JON HAMM, TV's Mad Men

* ZAC EFRON, High School Musical 3: Senior Year

* ROBERT BUCKLEY, TV's Lipstick Jungle

* BLAIR UNDERWOOD, TV's Dirty Sexy Money

* ED WESTWICK, TV's Gossip Girl

* MICHAEL PHELPS, Olympic gold-medal-winning swimmer

* BLAKE SHELTON, country singer

* LANG LANG, Chinese pianist

* MARK-PAUL GOSSELAAR, TV's Raising the Bar

* JAVIER BARDEM, No Country for Old Men

* ROBERT PATTINSON, Twilight

* JOSHUA JACKSON, TV's Fringe

* DAVID BECKHAM, soccer star and husband of VICTORIA "POSH SPICE" BECKHAM

 

Here's a look at People magazine's previous selections for the title of "Sexiest Man Alive":

 

1985: MEL GIBSON

1986: MARK HARMON

1987: HARRY HAMLIN

1988: JOHN F. KENNEDY JR.

1989: SEAN CONNERY

1990: TOM CRUISE

1991: PATRICK SWAYZE

1992: NICK NOLTE

1993: RICHARD GERE and CINDY CRAWFORD ("The Sexiest Couple Alive")

1994: None

1995: Brad Pitt

1996: DENZEL WASHINGTON

1997: George Clooney

1998: HARRISON FORD

1999: Richard Gere

2000: Brad Pitt

2001: PIERCE BROSNAN

2002: BEN AFFLECK

2003: JOHNNY DEPP

2004: JUDE LAW

2005: MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY

2006: George Clooney

2007: Matt Damon

Find out more by checking out this link:

http://www.people.com/people/package/0,,20237714,00.html

Giving the Gift of Life! (Nov 19)

There are just two more weeks left to make a BIG impact on the Interior Drive for Life blood donor challenge!  As it stands right now, we are behind Prince George by 8-percent!  Come on Kelowna - get rollin' up those sleeves!

Now, we're not sure if you know but Andy is unable to donate blood for medical reasons.  I, on the other hand, am good to go.... or atleast I thought!  Yesterday I had booked a 12:10 pm appointment at the clinic on Dilworth and was soooo looking forward to finally giving the gift of life.  You see, my earlier attempts failed because the first time I tried I was pregnant .... the second time, I'd just had dental work done.  For sure, I thought THIS would finally be my chance to do something so important!  BUT>>>>  it wasn't meant to be!  As it turns out, our trip to Mexico in June put a stop to my donation efforts.  Turns out the area we were vacationing in has a high incidence of Malaria and even though I may feel fine, I may also be carrying the virus....so, can't donate blood until a YEAR after returning from the Mayan!  I was disappointed for not being able to help, but more than impressed by the high standards of screening that the blood clinic uses!

Hopefully the fourth time will prove a charm next year!

Please, please - if you can - get out and give the gift of life.  The best way to do it, is by booking an appointment by calling 1-888-2-DONATE!

Thank you in advance! 

Barry Manilow Gets Rick Rolled! (Nov 19)

Have you heard of Rick rolling?  Have you been Rick rolled? 

Rickrolling is an Internet meme typically involving the music video for the 1987 Rick Astley song "Never Gonna Give You Up". The meme is a bait and switch: a person provides a Web link they claim is relevant to the topic at hand, but the link actually takes the user to the Astley video. The URL can be masked or obfuscated in some manner so that the user cannot determine the true source of the link without clicking (and thus satisfying their curiosity). When a person clicks on the link given and is led to the web page he/she is said to have been "Rickrolled". By extension, it can also mean playing the song loudly in public in order to be disruptive.

Yikes - not sure if Barry Manilow was Rick rolled, but he is obviously a fan of the song "Never Gonna Give You Up".  He does a cover version of it on his Greatest Songs CD which comes out Tuesday.

Have a listen!

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=TswTenrEwwM