It’s was the end of October 2008 that I went out to the construction site at Gray Monk Estate Winery in Lake Country to see the beginning of the work to change the face of one of the most successful wineries in B.C. forever. “It was time,” said George Heiss, "for us to invest some development money in our property as we look to the future."

This major makeover for this destination location for locals and their guests to visit will surprise those that haven’t been there for awhile. It is looking spectacular in Tuscan design and will continue to be a landmark for years to come. There are major changes, yet still within the tradition established by George and Trudy Heiss from the beginning in 1972.

L & S Contracting Ltd. is the general contractor and their work, as always, is first class. You can just tell that European craftsmen are involved. The work is superb. And who else but Lambert Schmaltz is in charge.

The winery remains open, as does the Grapevine Restaurant. As a matter of fact, the restaurant, on the day we were there, was very busy for lunch. The food is very tasty. They are open for lunch and dinner. The view of the lake and surrounding area is most calming and one of the true beauty spots on the lake. It just makes you feel good.

The grand opening is scheduled for September. The new wine shop and the elevator down to the lower level should be open at the beginning of July. For now everything is open and the construction site is very well organized so it is not difficult for people to find their way.

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Are you ready for a challenge? Does the excitement of winning a race light you up? Have you always wanted to participate in the Amazing Race? If so, JCI Discovery Challenge 2009 is for you!

Saturday, June 13th marks the date of the first annual JCI Discovery Challenge. It’s an amazing scavenger hunt style race where teams of two follow a series of clues to search for special locations throughout Penticton. The race begins at Jaycee Place, on the East side of Skaha Beach, and teams will travel by foot or by public transit throughout the city. At various checkpoints throughout the race, teams will complete challenges of skill, logic, knowledge or endurance.

This event is a charitable fundraiser and teams must raise $200 in pledges to qualify to enter. Proceeds will benefit Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance (OSCA) and JCI Summer Kids Camps.

For cheering fans and armchair athletes, there will be a beverage garden and prize draws from 11am – 6pm at Skaha Beach. Once teams finish the race, you can congratulate the teams in the beverage gardens. There will be prizes for the fastest teams and the biggest fundraisers.

There is still space for teams to compete. Team members must be 19 years or over to enter the race. Interested teams can register online and download a pledge form.

JCI Discovery Challenge

They are also still looking for volunteers to help out on race day, sponsors, and cheering fans. For more information, visit www.DiscoveryChallenge.ca, email discoverychallenge@live.ca or phone 250.490.5702.

JCI is the premier organization in Penticton for young adults between the ages of 18 and 40, who are interested in having fun, while bettering themselves, and giving back to the community. JCI’s Penticton chapter, which was recently recognized with a number of JCI awards, hosts a variety of fund raising events each year, to help raise funds for our local community. For more information, visit www.JCIPenticton.com.