A rich tradition that began in 1982 was recently re-ignited in Vernon.
The city hosted eight visitors from Vernon's sister city of Modesto, Cal.: Jim and Janice Bussey; Gary and Minh Beebout; Richard and Josephine Navarro; Patrick Dodd; and John Peltier.
The Americans' four-day visit highlighted the beauty and culture of the Okanagan, led by local guides Coleen Noel, Kris Fuller, and Tom Ouchi.
Day 1 saw the visitors welcomed with a reception at Perch Winery, where they were treated to local wines and scenic vineyard views. Tourism Vernon presented each guest with a welcome bag of local delights.
The sister city visitors were up early on Day 2 for a 6:30 a.m. breakfast date with the Silver Star Rotary Club, who were very hospitable and welcoming.
"Our Modesto guests were honoured to be included and excited to meet local business folks and Vernon citizens," said Fuller.
The group then toured Davison Orchard, with owner Tom Davison providing a personal look into the history of the iconic farm. From there, the group explored Peake Cellars before savouring a delicious lunch and awe-inspiring views at The Range Restaurant at Predator Ridge.
Next, it was over to the BX for a stop at Cambium Cider, where facility owner Melissa Dobernigg provided product samples and a tour of the apple orchards. The group here was joined by three Vernon businesswomen – Barbara Everdene, Elli Lane and Kim Wallace.
The day wrapped with dinner at 1516 Pub and Grill on Okanagan Lake, offering stunning lakeside views.
The adventure continued on Day 3 with a hike to the Red Gate lookout in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, where the Americans were greeted by the lake's many colours. Following the hike, coffee was enjoyed at the Rail Trail Café, followed by lunch up the hill at the Red Antler at SilverStar Mountain Resort. Destination SilverStar presented the Modesto group with Okanagan Eats cookbooks to remember their time in the valley.
The fourth and final day featured wine tours throughout Vernon, Kelowna, and Lake Country, culminating with a spectacular evening at The Edge, the newly finished restaurant at The Rise Golf Course.
Surrounded by incredible views of the Okanagan Valley, the delegation enjoyed fine wines and a fantastic dinner. The highlight of the evening was a plaque exchange between Vernon and Modesto, commemorating 42 years of their Sister City relationship. Mayor Victor Cumming of Vernon presented the plaque to Jim Bussey, the vice president of the Modesto group. Claus Larsen, chair of the tourism commission, was also in attendance.
This memorable visit exemplified the long-standing friendship between the two cities and the vibrant cultural and culinary offerings that make Vernon a special destination. The exchange continues to foster goodwill and lasting connections between the communities of Vernon and Modesto.
The Vernon-Modesto Sister City relationship promotes cultural exchange, community development, and international friendship through collaborative events and visits.
For more information, visit https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/departments/corporate-services/sister-cities
