Kelowna - The results are in. The Okanagan Greens’ premier event at Summerhill Winery was a smashing success!
Thirty-five Okanagan business participated in the first annual “Organic Okanagan Festival,” held at Kelowna’s certified organic vineyard, Summerhill Winery. “"The day had such an empowering sense of community - it was amazing to bring all these great organic, eco-friendly and green businesses together and showcase them to the Okanagan public.  I can't wait for next year!” said Wendy Wright, organizer.

Over 300 people attended the day long festival, and $2,000 was raised for the Okanagan Greens Local Foods for Local People campaign, which will launch in 2007 with the Local Foods for Local Schools program. This program hopes to connect local farmers with new and existing school mean programs.

Robert Dixon, Chair of the Local Foods program, was encouraged by the event. “This has been a tremendous celebration of local organic food, products and services,” said Robert. “Okanagan Greens want to work with local businesses, growers, individuals and organizations to increase the use of local foods, for the health of our children and the local economy.”

The Okanagan Greens wishes to thank the community and all the participating businesses for their support. “This event demonstrates that the people that live in the Okanagan Valley are looking for real alternative choices that are healthier for their families, the environment and the local economy, says Angela Reid, a founding member of the group.

Food bank donations were collected at the door and $500 in food items was also collected.

The Okanagan Greens was formed by local members of the Green Party to work with people in the community, in a non-political way, to support and promote the ideas, projects, business and organizations that share their values.