Mabui Japanese Kitchen has opened at 3009 Pandosy Street, next to ZABB. Owned and operated by partners Mitsuru Kiyan, Hide Takahaski, Sum Chowchong, and Victor Nishi, you might recognize the name from a former Mabui. Mitsuru Kiyan and Hide Takahaski formerly owned and operated Mabui successfully for 12 years, located behind Arby’s at 2070 Harvey Avenue. Now, Mitsuru and Hide have come out of retirement to join Sum and Victor in their new Mabui venture. Rooted in tradition, Mabui celebrates the delicate artistry of seasonal Japanese flavours. They invite you to experience a sanctuary of calm, where culinary masterpiece meets time-honored techniques presented with sincere hospitality. Mabui sources the finest ingredients and ensures that every dish honors the true spirit of authentic Japanese cuisine. Mabui offers a large and varied menu of appetizers, rolls, temaki Sushi, sashimi, nigiri, salad, many main dishes and dessert. We graciously were served the House Roll of avocado, cucumber, ginger, tobiko, real crab, spicy tempura prawn; Assorted Sashimi, Miso Black Cod, and their two most popular dishes of Puri Puri Ebi Mayo and Orange Bay Scallop. The Temaki Sushi served with seaweed was incredible. Each dish was so exquisitely presented; it looked like a work of art, and almost too beautiful to eat. It was an extraordinary Japanese dining experience. Everything tasted exceptional. MABUI is open Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Dine-in, Take-out, Delivery. www.mabui.ca
A unique community photo fundraiser gives local families the opportunity to capture beautiful memories while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children, teens and adults facing mental health challenges. SPARK, located at 1590 Pioneer Road, is a local non-profit that provides horse-assisted therapy. They are hosting a fundraising photo shoot to help raise funds for its equine-assisted mental health programs. Every photo session booked directly supports SPARK’s mission of facilitating healing and wholeness to individuals through guided therapeutic encounters with horses. Picture This! is an inclusive photoshoot, ideally suited for individuals, couples, or families who love to add some SPARK to their yearly family photos and for families with neurodivergent members or with diverse abilities. As you explore the enchanting Cowboy Town with the horses, a professional photographer will capture candid moments. Community members are encouraged to book a session on Friday, September 25th from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, September 26th, from 9:00 a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or Sunday September 27th, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information or to learn more about SPARK’s programs contact Annika Voeltz at 250-215-9458 or spark.kelowna@gmail.com; www.spark-kelowna.ca To book a session for this unique photo visit. https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/snap-for-a-cause
Manchego Snack Cart, inspired by the famous Manchego cheese from Spain, is a locally owned mobile dessert and snack cart founded by husband-and-wife team Cody Hollman and Evelyn Gil. Their journey began with charcuterie, but as their business grew, their signature Mini Pancake Cart was born. Since then, they have continued expanding their menu with interactive snack experiences. The mini pancakes come in flavours of strawberries and cream, caramel Biscoff, churro, Mazapan crunch and fiesta tropical. Dirty sodas were born in five flavours, including the original coke or diet coke, fresh lime juice, coconut syrup, and sweet cream. Manchego also offers parfaits of strawberry shortcake and strawberries and cream. The unique mobile cart is available for events throughout the Okanagan. Cody and Evelyn believe desserts should be more than just something you eat – they should be part of every celebration. I sampled the mini pancakes and a strawberry shortcake parfait. Both were exceptional and delicious. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, corporate event, festival, market, or backyard gathering, the Manchego Snack Cart is available. For more information or to reserve the cart for an event email manchegokelowna@hotmail.com or follow them on Instagram @manchego.bar.
Mona Vision Optometry – Eyewear in Lake Country is celebrating 32 years in business, providing affordable, quality, eye care, and eyewear. Owned and operated by Marsel Ahmadzadegan, he has been in the optical business since 1982. After working for several companies and managing an optical laboratory, Marsel decided to open his own business and in 1994 Mona Vision opened its doors. They offer complete eye examinations and comprehensive eye care, including ocular disease management and emergency eye care. Mona Vision carries a wide selection of eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. They produce lenses in-house, offer reasonable prices, expert knowledge, and quality service. www.monavision.ca
Effective immediately and until further notice, the local Planet Fitness in Kelowna and Vernon is opening its doors to impacted community members, evacuees and first responders to use its facilities free of charge and with no membership. This is to support the well-being of those affected by ongoing wildfires and offer first responders an opportunity to recover between shifts. They will provide access to essential needs, including water bottle refills, locker rooms, showers, space to recharge with electrical outlets and WIFI and a safe place to rest and refuel in a comfortable environment. The Kelowna Planet Fitness is located at 2271 Harvey Ave.www.planetfitness.ca
Dress for Success Kelowna is hosting a Setup for Success Program, which is a free 12-week virtual program designed to support women as they build skills, confidence, connections, and a stronger sense of belonging. Running from September 17th to December 3rd, the program will bring women together for a series of interactive online workshops focused on both personal and professional development, including financial literacy, entrepreneurship, personal development, and communication and technology skills. For more information or to learn how to participate in the program contact Kendall Holmes at programmanager@dfskelowna.org or visit www.dfskelowna.org
Oxford House Society of BC opened their first peer-supported recovery home in Kelowna in November 2025, bringing a model of recovery housing to BC that has already proven highly successful in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Originating in the US, there are now more than 3,500 Oxford Houses. They provide a safe, sober home and a community of men who hold one-another accountable. Executive Director Lonny Ladouceur has personally funded the organization and the first house but need donations and financial support to maintain and expand their work. Oxford House is a registered charity and can provide charitable tax receipts. If you are interested in learning more about Oxford House or Lonny Ladouceur visit www.risesoberliving.ca
The Kelowna Bocce Club invites you to their picnic on August 30th, 1926, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at 2340 Aberdeen Street. There will be an on-site BBQ and an informal afternoon of Bocce play. Tickets are $25.00 available at the door and kids 12 years and under free, including the BBQ. For more information contact Terry Welsh at kelownabocceclub@gmail.com
The Erica Jane Cup, presented by RD Capital Inc. is an elite golf tournament in Kelowna, with a three-day experience blending world-class golf, elevated hospitality, live entertainment, and meaningful impact. Hosted in support of Motionball, benefiting Special Olympics and Metro Hub Church. the tournament is September 22 – 24, 2026, with an unlimited open three-person scramble at both the Harvest Golf Club and the Quail at Okanagan Golf Club. The opening gala dinner is hosted at Erica Jane Restaurant on Sunset Drive. The prize purse is $30,000+ with team handicap requirements. Motionball is a national non-profit dedicated to empowering young Canadians to become leaders in their communities while raising vital awareness and fund for special Olympics. Open to professionals and amateurs alike. For more information and to register visit www.ericajanecup.com
The Legion’s 100th Anniversary signature event, Music in the Park will be held over two days, September 5th and 6th, 2026 in Cousins Park in Peachland with food and beverages available. Saturday’s paid event features Andrew Johns as Classic Elton, with The Jets as backup, a nine piece band and the Naramata Community choir of 25 singers. Tickets at www.ticketstripe.com/PeachlandLegion-ClassicElton. Sunday’s free event highlights their talented local musicians, the Partimers, 13 Broken Bones and Alfie Galpin and the All Stars. As parking will be at a premium, a free shuttle from IGA will be offered both days. They are still looking for sponsors and volunteers. Don Paige is on the Executive Committee of the Peachland Legion Branch 69.
The 16th Annual Wilson M. Beck Charity Golf Tournament in support of the YMCA of Southern Interior BC raised a whopping $206,582 surpassing its fundraising goal and setting a new tournament record. This year also marked the 10th consecutive year that Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services served as the tournament’s title sponsor. The YMCA celebrates 175 years of service in Canada and 45 years of strengthening communities across Kelowna and the Southern Interior. www.ymcasibc.ca
100 women Who care Kelowna selected Bust ‘N Loose as their recipient receiving a record-breaking $11,563 donation at their last evening hosted at Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Bust ‘N Loose is a local breast cancer survivors dragon boat paddling team that provides connection, support, and empowerment for those affected by breast cancer. www.100womenwhocarekelowna.com
The Rotary Centre for the Arts is launching their fall classes, workshops, and community art programs. Registration is now open with fall programs featuring hands-on opportunities led by accomplished local and visiting artists and instructors. Programs include visual arts and crafts, music and voice, dance, and movement just to mention a few. Colleen Fitzpatrick is the Executive Director. To view the complete schedule and to register, visit www.rotarycentreforthearts.com/learn/activities
Birthdays of the week – Len Todosichuk (Aug. 19); Bernard Gauthier (Aug. 19); Sally Ginter (Aug. 20); Denise Vines (Aug. 20); Arlene Henderson (Aug. 20); Tina Kristalowich (Aug. 20); Cherie Hanson (Aug. 20); Nicole Rustad (Aug. 20); Joan Patridge (Aug. 20); Art Penny (Aug. 20); Mac MacCormack (Aug. 20); Ken Bernath (Aug. 20); Lucille Grant (Aug. 21); Venessa Zhang (Aug. 21); Peter Sherba (Aug. 21); Ted Rhind (Aug. 21); David Crawford (Aug. 21); Joel Sherlock (Aug. 21); Ken Johnson (Aug. 22); Ilmas Elbouzian (Aug. 22); Lori Stevenson (Aug. 23); Jennifer Turton-Molgat (Aug. 23); Gerri Weninger (Aug. 23); Margaret Hobson (Aug. 24); Bud Magrath (Aug. 24); Joe Grande (Aug. 24); Stacey Sandison (Aug. 24); Hans Kruiswyk (Aug. 24); Peter Raja (Aug. 25); Gerry Wourms (Aug. 25); Melanie Barber (Aug. 25); Devin Rubadeau (Aug. 25).
The Specialty Bakery Birthday Cake Winner of the Week is Gerry Wourms. Gerry, please pick up your Birthday Cake from any one of the four Specialty Bakery locations before Wednesday, Aug. 26/2026.
Maxine DeHart is a Kelowna City Councillor and local hotelier. Phone her at 250-979-4546 or 250-862-7662. E-mail max@maxinedehart.ca
