February 14, 2013 Volume 12 • Number 7 50¢ Newsstand Price
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downtown
Bursary for women in need – page 2
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Chamber of Commerce: They’re your business Close to one thousand executive director businesses are located in Business owners look to the our city centre so it just Chamber for support in a number makes sense that when of different ways. The Chamber of Kamloops Chamber of Commerce is a membership based Commerce went looking organization that represents our for a new home a downbusiness community and is a coltown was at the top of the lective voice for its individual lolist. cal members. The Kamloops ChamAfter 73 years of delivber of Commerce offers a variety of ering service for the Kaprograms directed towards business mloops Visitor Centre, development as well as personal an agreement between growth as a business leader. They The Kamloops Chamber provide networking opportunities, of Commerce and Tourorganise educational presentations ism Kamloops resulted and are a government liaison that arin Tourism Kamloops asticulates business owners’ questions suming operation and or concerns. Members also find valtourism services for the ue in the money-saving ideas and facility. In rolling out this diverse discounts the Chamber afnew business model, the fords with many taking advantage Chamber office has moved of a collective insurance plan and from the Visitor Centre to reduced Visa and Mastercard mera new space located at 615 chant processing fees. Victoria Street.This new Wednesday, February 19, from location is central to the 4:00 experience to 7:00pm the Kamloops • Non members welcome • Military not required Candace Palmer, Chamber of Commerce a special local business community Deb McClelland, Executive Director; Maurice Hindle, President; • 5 minute drive from Downtown • Licensed Premises Coordinator and Jamie evening is planned that will mark and allows the Chamber Administrative Assistant; Lisa White, Sales & •Marketing Book your corporate parties, BBQ’s, birthday parties and weddings Mayes, Events Coordinator are ready to welcome you to the Chamber of Commerce to better service all of its the official grand opening of their • Accepting Christmas bookings BOOK EARLY! at their new location on Victoria Street. members while establishnew headquarters as well as the ing deeper connections of their new House) brand. “We are 177 Tranquille Roadlaunch (the Old Beach with their strategic partners. In fact, with a base of 852 members a really looking forward to the evening,” remarks Lisa White, sales 250-554-1345 | www.anavets.ca whooping 85 percent of these are located downtown! and marketing coordinator. “It’s exciting to share our new space with Their new location houses four full time staff and a part-time book- members and to unveil the Chamber’s new logo. The concept behind keeper, all of whom are thrilled to be in the hustle and bustle of the design will be introduced by Kamloops graphic design agency, downtown. “It’s great to be able to walk to see many of our mem- Fresh Inc. at the Open House” bers. Our new location facilitates so many synergies. People just – continued on page 2 drop in to say hello now,” says Deb McClelland, the Chamber’s
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177 Tranquille Road (the Old Beach House) 250-554-1345 | www.anavets.ca
2 n February 14, 2013
DOWNTOWN echo
E. Fry Society establishes bursary for women in need Intake opened January 1 for the Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society Women’s Educational Bursary. This bursary was established to offer financial assistance to women in need, as the Society seeks to support applicants both practically and emotionally and to foster personal growth and empowerment. The bursary is in its second year of operation, having been established in 2012 after the Society received a donation from a generous community member. As in this case, most programs run by the Society could not continue without the generous support of the Kamloops community. The Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society allocated this money after receiving requests throughout the year from women who were trying to complete their post-secondary education, but were unable due to lack of finances. Executive director, Louise Richards, adds, “We wanted to do something with the money that we could see an immediate difference in an individual’s life.” Last year, the Society awarded its first bursary. “It was a very difficult decision for
the committee,” explained Richards, emphasizing the overwhelming response from the community. While past clients of the Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society are given preference, last year’s recipient had not received services from the Society. Applicants are invited to share their story, their financial need, and how their chosen training or schooling will help them achieve economic stability or self-sufficiency and reach their short and long term goals. The successful applicant will be a woman 18 or older who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and will be attending a recognized Canadian college, trades school, or university in the Kamloops area. Any program will be considered- with the ultimate goal of obtaining a diploma, degree or certification Application is open January 1 to March 31. For 40 years, the Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society has been working towards a community founded on equality and justice. While the Kamloops and District Elizabeth
Downtown is the place they want to be – continued from page 1 The network of Chambers of Commerce across BC is known to be the most influential business organization in the province. February 18 to 22 is Chamber of Commerce week in BC and the Kamloops Chamber is proud to offer a week of events that will showcase how they are able to strengthen local businesses. Look for their banners on Victoria Street downtown and on Tranquille Road on the North Shore and plan to attend their events. You will feel welcome and comfortable and can learn how they can help you in achieving your business goals. Monday, February 18, the future of energy will be the hot topic as FortisBC and Spectra Energy partner to deliver a new natural gas education program, Natural Gas: Benefits for BC. There is no cost to attend the presentation however registration is required. This joint presentation will be delivered from 11:00am until 12:00pm in the Kamloops Chamber boardroom. An exclusive opportunity for Chamber members will take place on Tuesday, February 19 when the Telus Business Centre presents “How to Make the Most of Your SmartPhone” from noon until 1:30pm hosted in the Chamber boardroom. Technologies will be compared and new apps and tools for business use will be discussed. Bring lots of business cards and join in a morning full of speed networking on Thursday, February 21. Networking begins at 8:00am and registration is required to attend. On February 22, from noon until 1:30pm Minister Terry Lake will give a post-budget address and answer questions on how the government is meeting the challenge of the
2013 Provincial Budget. This event will be held at the Holiday Inn & Suites located at 675 Tranquille Road. Lunch is included in the cost, $40 for non-members and $30 for members. Take full advantage of all of the programs the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce offers. The Chamber works to foster a stronger, more connected city that encourages growth and a better lifestyle for all citizens. Contact the office for more details on all of these events and to reserve your seat. Call 250-372-7722 or mail@kamloopschamber.ca – Jody Tippett
Fry Society focuses on women and children, they also provide a range of services to men. For more information or to download the application, please visit kamloopsefry.com or email admin@kamloopsefry.com.
Highschool Curling Championship On February 28, Kamloops will be host to the 49th annual BC High School Provincial Curling Championships. This tournament will be held at the Kamloops Curling Club and will run through the weekend, with the champions announced on Sunday, March 3. Sixteen teams from across the province will compete for the girls and boys titles. Regional play downs are set to begin this month in Kamloops to determine if a local Kamloops team will have the privilege of participating at this event. On the girls’ side, the Corryn Brown team finished second at last years’ event and was named the Kamloops Sports Team of the Year for 2012. The Brown Team was recently crowned Provincial Junior Champions and is headed to Fort McMurray to represent BC in the Junior Nationals. This bonspiel is a significant kickoff to an important year for curling in the River City. In addition to the BC Provincial Curling Championships, Kamloops will be host to the CIS University Curling Championships in March 2013 and the recently announced 2014 Tim Horton’s Brier. This event is free for spectators, and is open to the community, with curling starting at 9:00am daily. Supporters can also follow in game scoring on www.playdowns.com.
ready to strike
Big Brothers and Sisters of Kamloops and Region is gearing up for Bowl for Kids Sake which begins February 23. Doug Marchuk and Matt Barron installed the sign outside of the office on Seymour Street. Check out the special events at bfkskamloops.ca and book your lanes!
DOWNTOWN echo
February 14, 2013 n 3
Penny drive benefits MS Society Gina Wakefield, a cashier at the Shoppers Drug Mart in Columbia Place, was given instructions last week about her role in retiring the penny. The penny will be retired from circulation beginning on February 4, so Shoppers Drug Mart will no longer give pennies out as change. This sparked an idea for Gina to create a penny drive that would allow people to put their pennies to good use. She is encouraging people to donate their pennies to support making a difference in the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). Gina has a family member with MS, so she chose the MS Society of Canada as her charity of choice. Gina wants to increase awareness of the disease and its impacts in order to create change for someone she cares about deeply. When she took the idea to Mike Huitema, the owner of the Columbia Place Shoppers Drug Mart, he was all for it. Mike responded, “It’s the last penny drive; let’s make it a good one.” The Columbia Place Shoppers Drug Mart at 1210 Summit Drive will be taking pennies now through the spring.
A birthday with style Employees at The House of Carmond celebrate their client, Sheila McColman’s birthday. Pictured here is Dan McColman, Lee Peters, Ray Salmond, birthday girl Sheila McColman and Cassie Wakeling. Happy Birthday Sheila!
The ECHO ASKS YOU What is your idea of romance?
Mike Huitema and Gina Wakefield are encouraging shoppers to donate their pennies to make a difference.
Bring in your pocket change, jars and rolls of pennies. The store is open from 8am to 12am daily. For more information please contact the MS Society, Kamloops and Area Chapter at 250-314-0773 or email info. kamloops@mssociety.ca.
Christina Grono
Oops Cafe
Just to lay in bed for hours talking in the morning.
Laughing, lingerie and red wine.
Your gift today benefits our communities forever! Caroline Dick You can support a variety of areas of interest including organizations and projects that help youth and education. Make a donation today!
Laura Shaben
The Art We Are
Electrictree Yarns
Star Wars and Cheezies.
Joelle Drescher Crimson Nail Bar
Dinner, chocolate, wine and a bath.
Doing it right the first time
250-434-6995 | www.kamloopsfoundation.com
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editorial/opinion
4 n February14, 2013
Edge Publishing Inc. Design | Digital Printing Echo Newspapers
meet our team wenda Noonan Publisher Steaming
cristina ostapovitch Advertising Consultant Sizzling
erin johnson Production Manager Piping
Carrie Harman
Administrator Flaming
jody tippett Editor
Smokin’
Marilee Manning, wayne kuchyski, ian watt, russel kutcher, & kelly trainor, Delivery
downtown echo
Independently owned and operated by Edge Publishing, the Downtown Echo is distributed weekly throughout downtown Kamloops. We focus on activities and events at the neighbourhood level, and on larger events with direct impact on our neighbourhood. The Downtown Echo is available free to you because we are advertising supported. Please support the local businesses that support this newspaper through their advertising - remember when you shop locally, the money you spend remains in our community. Disclaimer: The publisher will not be responsible for errors or omissions. Due care and attention is used in checking advertising copy for accuracy and legitimacy, but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher. The publisher reserve the right to refuse any advertising or editorial submissions which they believe to be inconsistent with the concept of this publication. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the contributors/writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the publisher.
contact us at:
PHONE: 250-374-ECHO (3246) FAX: 250-374-3247 EMAIL: echo@shawcable.com snail mail: #1 - 219 Victoria St, Kamloops, BC V2C 2A1
DOWNTOWN echo
art show opens this week Two of the highly respected jurors for the Kamloops Arts Council’s upcoming Juried Art Show were on hand to help launch the event. This year’s jurors are internationally renowned artist Tricia Sellmer and Kamloops Art Gallery assistant curator Craig Willms along with Alan Brandoli (not shown). The third annual show provides emerging and amateur local artists of all ages - youth to senior - with constructive criticism and visibility, as well as a chance to build their resume and compete with peers. Don’t miss out on seeing some of the best pieces of
art that Kamloops has to offer. The show runs from February 16 to 24 at the Old Courthouse Cultural Centre and is open from 10am to 5pm daily.
Calendar fundraiser sets hearts on fire
The BC Professionals Firefighters Burn Building is one step closer to breaking ground thanks to the success of 2013 Kamloops Firefighters Calender fundraiser. This year the International Association of Firefighters Local 913 (IAFF) raised almost $4000.00 more than last year with total sales of $46,400 with their very popular calendar! Funds raised from the calendar as well as several IAFF Local 913 charity initiatives have received tremendous public support in the past and currently enjoy momentum, moving forward. Aside from the calendar initiative they have seen generous donations to many of their other fundraising efforts. The group also hosts various boot drives, car washes, charity dinners and countless other events. This has allowed the organzation to donate thousands of dollars where funding was desperately needed.
TOP: Heidi Coleman, Chief executive officer at RIH with Kamloops Firefighters Chris Davies, Ryan Cail and Shawn Davidson LEFT: Echo administrator Carrie Harman looks like she’s considering setting her house on fire as she shows off the 2013 Kamloops Firesfighters Charity Calendar!
Funds raised through this campaign are split between two charities - The BC Professional Firefighters Burn Building in Vancouver as well as the Royal Inland Hospital. This year the funds will help RIH purchase a much needed additional ventilator to aid in the treatment/recovery of RIH patients. The Burn Building will be a state of the art facility, which will house burn survivors and their families in a calean, private sterile environment throughout their recovery.
Business profile
DOWNTOWN echo
February 14, 2013 n 5
Why be green with envy when you can go pink? Manicures, pedicures, and facials oh my! These are just some of the services that everyone loves out of a spa. Pure pampering pleasure is what people flock to, day after day. With so many spas offering these same services, how do you choose where to get your guilty pleasures? Pink with Envy’s owner and operator, Brandy Coull, was busting at the seams with excitement to share with me what makes her spa an excellent choice. In 2004, the ruling was passed that nail technicians and estheticians no longer needed to be licensed. This means anyone can be hired without formal training. “I only hire licensed technicians.” Says Brandy, the fourteen-year veteran. “Everyone at the shop is constantly upgrading their education as to try to master our craft and more.” At Pink With Envy you will find a master pedicurist certified to work on diabetics, a true make-up artist who did her education at the highly accredited Blanche MacDonald in Vancouver and Brandy herself is certified to educate for Nubar Infinity Gel and Akzentz. There is a lot of schooling and talent under this roof but that is only one of the reasons that make Pink with Envy a great spa. It is of the upmost importance for Brandy that she carries only the healthiest products for her clients and staff. And for good reason. Brandy has had an ongoing battle with cancer for the past nine years. It was her mission that all products are paraben free, organic and have no carcinogens such as toluene, formaldehyde and Phthalate (DBP). She also prides herself on the strict sanitation, disinfecting sterilization procedures. “Even if our clients are not aware of our practices, I am, and that just makes me feel good about what we are doing here” says Brandy who shows great pride when speaking of her spa. All of this is combined with all the beauty,
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serenity and fun you would expect from perfect pampering. Now in it’s new location on 803 Seymour, Pink With Envy is a spot worth checking out. Whether you are relaxing having your pedicure while watching the giant fish tank or having a blast chatting it up while getting incredible nail art done, you can be sure that all the details and your health needs are taken care of. Brandy invites you to come in and say hello and to see their new location for yourself. Please call 250-374-PINC (7462) to book your appointment or check them out on facebook or online at www. pinkwithenvy.biz. – Cristina Ostapovitch
When math goes bad
The teacher asked little Peter; “If I have five mangoes in one hand and five mangoes in the other, what do I have?” “Big hands,” said Peter.
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e e s d n a n i e Com w e n d n a r b r u o location
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If you like traditional Francophone folk music played with passion and energy on acoustic instruments, this is the show for you. La Ligue du Bonheur (The Good Times League) will perform at a concert and dance on February 15 at 8:00pm. The band will have you on your feet dancing and clapping for the whole evening. Each year the Kamloops Francophone Association brings a highend band from Eastern Canada for a cultural social evening Culture En Fete. The musicianship is always excellent and the event is always fun. Everyone is welcome; it isn’t just for French people. Come out and join them at Ramada Inn located at 555 Columbia St West. Purchase your tickets at Kamloops Live Box Office online at kamloopslive.com or by calling 250-374-5483.
Track and Field indoor invitational returns
The Van Ryswyk Indoor Track and Field Indoor Invitational meet is hosted by the Kamloops Track and Field Club from February 15 to 17 at the Tournament Capital Center and is available to all athletes ages nine and up. There will also be “Track Rascals” (age six to eight) events available. Events begin Friday afternoon at 5:00pm and continue until Sunday afternoon. Athletes are from across BC and Alberta. This year, Olga Kotelko, the 90+ Master Athlete will be back. She is the oldest long jump competitor in the world, holding 23 world records and considered one of the world’s greatest athletes. She owns every athletics’ world record in her age group, an array of more than a dozen events ranging from the sprints to hammer throw to triple jump events. Joining Olga is the North, Central American and Caribbean World Masters Athletics (NCCWMA) 2012 female
athlete of the Year, Christa Bortignon, at 75 years of age. Christa returned to Track and Field in 2009 after a gap of 55 years. She holds records in 28 Canadian events and still planning to add more. During 2012, she won eight World Athletic gold medals and holds 7 World Records for her age group. She plans to add to that record at February’s Indoor Track Meet. Last year, Christa competed in Jyväskylä, Finland at the World Masters Championship Indoor Games as well as the World Masters Regional Championship in Saint John, New Brunswick. At the 2012 BC Senior Games, she set a triple jump world record of 7.91 meters. In addition, she attended other meets in USA and Canada adding to her total winnings. For more information, please contact Alwilda van Ryswyk alvan50@shaw.ca or call 250372-9640.
DOWNTOWN echo
February 14, 2013 n 7
Heart month activities Celebrate the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Heart Month campaign by attending the Healthy Hearts Fair and Pro-D Swim on February 15 presented by the City of Kamloops. This second annual event will take place between 9:00am and 1:00pm in the Tournament Capital Lobby. Residents will have the opportunity to learn about healthy choices, AED operation, CPR training, emergency response and more. This fair also includes the Happy Hearts Pro-D Swim, which is a $2 swim with all attractions open. A face painter will be
on-site for all to enjoy, by donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Put Your Heart Into It! is a twice weekly City of Kamloops fitness class held at the Tournament Capital Centre (TCC) which runs throughout the month of February. Join in and enter to win a draw prize! You can count those kilometers and be entered into a grand prize draw with Bike Your Heart Out! All spin classes at the TCC will be competing to determine who covers the most distance in February.
cold nose, warm heart
Sweeten up your sweetheart with gifts from Fudge Yeah!
V-DAY IS COMING On February 14 You will be judged! Enter to WIN the
ULTIMATE VALENTINES PACKAGE • One night at the South Thompson • Massage from Kamloops Optimum Health • Dinner from Boston Pizza • Natural Beauty Products from Body Crave Essentials • Gift Basket from Fudge Yeah
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Keeps your Wellness business top of mind by advertising in the Echo’s Natural Health Directory Call 250-374-ECHO (3246) for more info.
Twin Rivers Massage with Christine Meroniuk, RMT Chronic pain, back pain • Gift Certificates Direct billing to Great West Life 500-235 1st Ave • 250-320-2715 • twinriversmassage.com
Colette Swain, Registered Massage Therapist
Also trained in Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymph Drainage and Combined Decongestive Therapy
#360 - 546 St. Paul Street • 250-299-3636
Treat Yourself to Hawaiian Massage
Kathy Richins is now offering relaxing Hawaiian Massage & Life Coaching at the Bodymind Centre
#205-635 Victoria St. • 250-574-7521 • findstrengthinaction.com
Dr. Tracy Levins, ND at Kamloops Naturopathic Clinic Clinical focus in female hormones, IV therapies, neural prolotherapy (lyftogt technique) 754 Seymour St. • 250-377-3077 • drjones.ca
exercise exercise your your brain brain by by Knitting! Knitting! Knitting Knittingisistherapeutic, therapeutic,relaxing relaxingand andself-satisfying. self-satisfying.
Teacup Pomeranian, Tia was dressed in her Valentine’s Day finest as she waited patiently outside of Fratelli Foods for her owner, Brenda. Tia spends her days being adorable at Brown’s Repair and loves visitors.
Donna’s Donna’s yarn yarn & & crafts crafts 250-376-3381 250-376-3381 •• Fortune Fortune shopping shopping centre centre
Intuitive Healing - Michele Gieselman offers Massage,
Cranial Sacral, Intuitive Readings, Meditation, Workshops & Shamanic Healing. Gift certificates available.
intuitivehealing@telus.net | 250.851.0966
The special things If I’ve learned one thing in my 30 years of marriage it’s this... The most effective way to remember to buy something for your wife for St. Valentine’s Day is to just forget it once! For you newlyweds, or those men who are new to a relationship, I have a couple more tips to give you too. I just love to do special things for my wife on Valentine’s day. Like for instance, I open the door for her when she puts all the laundry in the washing machine, or I plug and unplug the vacuum as she moves from room to room cleaning. Guys, it’s these little thoughtful things you can do to have a succesful relationship..
Registered Massage Therapist & Yoga Teacher
Craniosacral Therapy • Visceral & Myofascial release • Osteopathic Techniques. Private & semi private yoga sessions. Gift certificates.
Darlene Fair: 405-153 Seymour Street • 250-318-6300
THE FOCUS IS ON SUCCESSFUL AGING!
Discover all natural, non-invasive facials for successful aging. KamloopsEsthetics.com Healthy skin is beautiful skin!
301-141 Victoria Street (above Bikini Bills) • 250.828-0909
Paul Laviolette, HHP, CCP, RCRT
Roots Therapeutic Pain Management Centre, Trigger Point Table and Chair Massage, Advanced Reflexology.
316-141 Victoria St. • 250-319-7292 • www.triggerpointtherapy.ca
Melanie Roberts, RMT is pleased to announce the opening of Maximum Health Massage Therapy
6 - 665 Tranquille Rd. • 778-470-5758 or book appts. at www.maxhealthmassage.com
8 n February 14, 2013
DOWNTOWN echo
Public input sought on TNRD financial plan The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) is currently seeking public input on its 2013-17 Financial Plan. The Local Government Act states “a regional district must have a financial plan that is adopted annually, by bylaw, by March 31. The planning period for a financial plan is five years, that period being the year in which the plan is specified to come into force and the following four years.” “The public is encouraged to go on our website and review the 2013-2017 Financial Plan and its highlights. If they have any feedback, they can then fill out our Finance Plan Input Form,” said Doug Rae, Director of Finance. The preparation of the Financial Plan begins in the fall of each year and a provisional Financial Plan is presented to the Board of Directors at that time. The Financial Plan incorporates requests from Directors and service committees, any new services as well as staff estimates of funding required to maintain current service levels.
The final Financial Plan is then presented in March and adopted before the deadline of March 31. The Finance Department conducts public budget consultation in conjunction with other servicerelated meetings throughout the year at various locations in the Regional District. The TNRD
encourages input from taxpayers across the Regional District on the Financial Plan. The Finance Plan Input Form is available at tnrd.ca under the Submission Inquiries header on the homepage. You can also go to the Finance page under Departments and find a link to
the online form, as well as a link to a PDF that can be faxed, mailed, or emailed to the TNRD. A link to the 2013-17 Financial Plan is also found on the Finance page. Submissions can be filled out anonymously or information can be provided if you wish to be contacted.
Free tax service for low income seniors Seniors Outreach Society (SOS) will be assisting low income seniors with their tax returns again this year. If you are a senior (55+) who is need of assistance with tax return, this is the program for you! It is provided for free to seniors who meet the following criteria: Single adult with income of less than $30,000 a year; single adult parent with an income of less than $35,000 a year; couples with an income of less than $40,000 a year; must not have capital gains; and income tax will not be completed for deceased persons. This program is provided by qualified volunteers and is provided for free to seniors who are low income and meet this criteria. The program will begin on February 25 and end on April 29. Please note that April 1 is a
gone wild
stat holiday; therefore, no services will be available on this day. The program will be held at Desert Gardens every Monday from 9:30am to 11:30am between the dates mentioned above. Income tax packages will be available for pick up the following Monday. Please remember to bring personal identification in order to pick up all income tax information. Due to the highly sensitive nature of these packages, everyone will be expected to show their ID before we will be able to release the documents. If anyone has further questions, feel free to contact SOS by phone 250828-0600 or e-mail info@kamseniorsoutreach.ca. Submitted by THRIVE: News & Views from Seniors Outreach Society
DOWNTOWN echo
Home ownership
February 14, 2013 n 9
Four steps to make the dream a reality!
Fabric sale $
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When my wife and I first got be asked to “Remove Subjects.” This THe Tax! married, we had decided to rent. means you commit 100% to purchasWe had dreams of purchasing a ing this home. Within two weeks from home, but didn’t think we could your completion date, you will receive afford the payments or the maininsurance claims a call from your Lawyer or Notary to tenance. We knew what we wantliquidations sign the final documents. salvage merchandise ed, but houses were selling quickCongratulations! You now own a ly and we hadn’t done the math. www.loboymarket.com home. So for the next seven months, Teague Brinkworth is a Mortgage purchasing became just that… a Advisor for The Mortgage Centre/Dico dream. eVerY DaY sTUFF... bUT cHeaPer! Teague Brinkworth Holdings Inc. Visit his website brinkIt wasn’t until a while later when 459 tranquille rd | m-S 10-5 we decided once and for all…we worth.ca for more information. 1/16 were going to do it! We were going to make this dream a reality! But what was the process? What is the process? Purchasing a home (as it pertains to mortgage financing) can be summed up in four easy steps: 1. Pre-Qualification 3RD ANNUAL 2. Pre-Approval KAMLOOPS ARTS COUNCIL 3. Approval 4. Completion & Possession The Pre-Qualification A Pre-Qualification is an educated guess at what you should be approved for. It is a great time to plan out your mortgage strategy, but this is by no means concrete and may be subject to rate or payment increases. As this process does not require paperwork to support the statements made, there is an increased possibility of frustration or trouble down the road. The Pre-Approval Make sure you get Pre-APPROVED not Pre-Qualified for a mortgage before going shopping. A Pre-Approval should require the borrower to verify their income, down payment, and credit situation by producing a number of documents (example: FEBRUARY 16-24 | 10AM - 5PM Employment Letter, Pay Stub, 2 Years of Tax Returns, and Three Months Bank OPENING NIGHT: FEBRUARY 15 | 6PM or RRSP Statements). This will allow a more accurate view of what you would be PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD. Vote for your favourite piece! approved for. Once you have completed this process, you should ask for a Pre-Approval ADMISSION BY DONATION Certificate showing (in writing) the amount LOCAL ART AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. you qualify for. Visa and Mastercard accepted. The Approval Present your Realtor with a copy of the Pre-Approval Certificate and go house hunting! Once you find that special place to call home, make an offer. Remember, because you were Pre-Approved and not Pre-Qualified, you can be confident that you will be able to purchase this home. Once the accepted offer has been signed, your Old Courthouse Cultural Centre Realtor will fax a copy for your Broker to 7 Seymour Street West 250.372.7323 submit to the Lender. As you gathered most info@kamloopsarts.ca WITH SUPPORT FROM: of the required documents previously, there ECHO NEWSPAPERS | ELECTRICTREE YARNS | FRATELLI FOODS should be very little additional documentaOPUS ART SUPPLIES | STARBUCKS COFFEE | THE ART WE ARE | WENDY WESEEN tion required. CORE SPONSORS: CITY OF KAMLOOPS | BC ARTS COUNCIL The Completion & Possession With your financing in place, you will
LO-BOY Market
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10 n February 14, 2013
TALK
DOWNTOWN echo
OF THE TOWN
Submit your listing: echo@shawcable.com
Things are heating up for an evening of love ■■ Love Bites Burlesque at The Blue Grotto, 319 Victoria St. on Feb. 14. Doors at 8pm for a 19+ show. FMI or interested in performing visit: facebook.com/Kamloopsburlesque. ■■ Oren Barter is at The Art We Are, 246 Victoria St. on Feb. 16 from 8 to 10pm. ■■ The Old Courthouse Gallery, 7 West Seymour St. celebrates Valentines Day Feb. 14. Visit the gallery for locally made fine art and craft and don’t forget to check the Judge’s Trunk for special items. Open 10am to 5pm, Tues. to Fri. and 10am to 4pm, Sat. ■■ Kamloops Old Time Fiddlers Dance on Feb. 16 from 7:30 to 10:30pm at Heritage House, 100 Lorne St. Enjoy Waltzes, Fox Trots, Two-Steps, Polkas and more. Everyone is welcome. FMI 250-376-2330.
■■ Improv Night with Project X on Feb. 16. Doors at 7:30pm and show at 8pm at St. Andrews on the Square, 159 Seymour St. Tickets available in advance at Pandora’s Costume Box, 753 Victoria St. or at the door. ■■ Barnhartvale Coffee House on Feb. 16, doors at 7pm. “Open mic” for local musicians and small groups - sign up at the door. Feature act: Jane Eamon from Kelowna. FMI contact 250-372-3461 or www.barnhartvalecoffeehouse.com ■■ Coffee and Cards every Tues. morning at Caffe Arianna, 272 Lansdowne St. at 10am. For anyone interested in learning more about sending cards, sharing ideas or just come for a chat. Everyone welcome.
Elvis is in the building!
Kamloops own Elvis impersonator, Cliff Moody is doing a Breast Cancer fundraiser on February 15 at 8pm at McCracken Station Pub, 1626 Valleyview Dr. Cover charge is at the door with 100 per cent of proceeds going toward Breast Cancer. His “Always Elvis Show” will feature all three eras of Elvis including a smoke and light show to give a real Vegas experience. Check out Cliff’s website at www. alwayselvisshow.com.
■■ An Evening of Love Songs with Mo Jazz and special guest vocalists Jeanne Rodrigue and Joey Jack on Feb.15 at 7:30pm (6:30 doors) at St. Andrews on the Square, 159 Seymour St. Tickets available at Kamloops Live Box Office at 250-374-5483 or www.kamloopslive.com. ■■ La ligue du Bonheur Concert and Dance on Feb. 15 at 8pm showtime, doors at 7:30pm at Ramada Inn, 555 Columbia Street West. Optional buffet dinner at 6pm. Tickets available at Kamloops Live Box Office: www.kamloopslive.com or 250-374-5483. ■■ “Winter Wildlife” Pro-D Day Camp at BC Wildlife Park on Feb. 15 from 9am to 4pm fro ages six to 12. Agenda includes education program, craft , activity, two snacks and a visit to Zippity Zoo Playground. FMI contact 250-5733242 ext. 228 or 229 or visit www.bczoo.org. ■■ Western and Sonia Cornwall Roundup at The Kamloops Art Gallery to Mar. 23. Situated within active ranching country, the exhibition looks the mythology of the west.
■■ A Narrative Corpse in The Cube at The Kamloops Art Gallery to Mar. 23. A collaborative chain story painted directly on the gallery walls. 465 Victoria St. ■■ JusDance Kamloops is a monthly community dance event for the pleasure of pure movement exploration and personal expression. Last Fri. of the month from 9 to 11pm at Centennial Wellness Building, unit 102, 153 Seymour St. Bring your own water. FMI contact Cornelius Brink at 778-472-3537. ■■ The Queen of Bingo presented by The Can-Ital Ladies Society, Colombo Lodge and Kamloops Players on March 9 at Colombo Lodge, 814 Lorne St. Doors at 6pm, Dinner Theatre at 7pm. FMI or tickets contact: Colombo Lodge at 250-374-4914, United Church, 421 St. Paul St, Modesta at 250-6827110, Linda at 250-320-5582. ■■ ArtBC meets Tues. weekly from Sept. to May, at 1pm, at the Parkview Recreation Centre, 500 McDonald Ave.
■■ The Council of Canadians meets at 5:30pm on the second Wed. of every month at the Smorgasbord Deli, 225 - 7th Ave. FMI call Anita or Dalton 250-377-0055. The Kamloops Family History Society meetings take place the 4th Thurs. of each month (Sept. to May) 7 to 9pm at Heritage House, 100 Lorne St. All are welcome. FMI call 250-372-5679. ■■ Kamloops Celiac Chapter meetings take place the second Tues. of each month (Jan. to Nov.) from 7 to 8:30 pm at 1361 McGill Road. FMI call 250-314-1404. ■■ Art in the Park: Call for artists for July 1, 2013. Register from Feb 2 to Mar. 16 with artists being current members of the Kamloops Arts Council. Apply online at: www.kamloopsarts.ca or pick up form at office located at 7 Seymour St. W. ■■ Kamloops Poetry Slam on the 2nd and last Wed. of every month at The Art We Are, 246 Victoria St. Sign up is at 6:30pm and the event begins at 7pm. Minimum donation and/or a donation to the Kamloops Food Bank. FMI call Dianna at 250-8521068. ■■ Kamloops Human Library project fourth Saturday of each month from 3 to 5pm at the Smorgasbord Deli, 255 7th Ave. FMI contact Lissa Millar at humanlibrarian@gmail.com. ■■ Barnhartvale Dances with Vern Cave and the Fender Bender every Sunday from 8 to 11:30pm at the Barnhartvale Community Hall. Admission at the door. ■■ Advocates for Urban Wildlife Kamloops welcomes like-minded individuals interested in joining a growing movement towards safely co-existing urban wildlife. FMI contact advocatesforurbanwildlife@telus.net or 250-573-3483. ■■ Kamloops Happy Choristers invites new members age 55 and over to join for fun, singing, harmony and a variety of songs under the direction of Mary Jackson. Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11am at the Heritage House, 100 Lorne St. FMI call Sharon at 250-579-9505. ■■ Kamloops Stroke Recovery Group invites people who have suffered a stroke and their caregivers to their meetings the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of the month from 10:30am-1pm, To confirm meeting dates, location and FMI call 250-320-1348. ■■ 55 Plus Seniors’ Fellowship - Gatherings held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 10:30am, September to May in the lower auditorium of First Baptist Church. FMI call Allen at 376-1607. ■■ Breathing Fire, a poetry and spoken word slam the first and last Wed. of the month presented by Richard Wagamese and Caffe Motivo, 229 Victoria St. 19+ event. FMI contact richardwagamese@gmail.com or storymonger@hotmail.com.
DOWNTOWN echo
horoscopes
Your Horoscope AQUARIUS (Jan 21-Feb 19) Don’t be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about personal problems. You’re eager to learn. Toning, fitness, pampering should be scheduled. Don’t let people meddle in private affairs PISCES (Feb 20-Mar 20) Taking on too much won’t help the situation. Spend some time on yourself. Talk to someone with experience about budgets or consolidating debts. Based on your excitement, serious-minded individuals will be more than interested in backing your ideas. ARIES (Mar 21-April 20) Don’t trust coworkers with important or personal information. Money problems will be difficult to deal with if you have a partner. Your diplomatic approach and rather outgoing nature will enhance your reputation and bring you the support you need. TAURUS (Apr 21-May 21) Arguments could prevail. Resistance leading to conflict will only make it twice as hard to turn the situation around. Dealing with in-laws or relatives will not be in your best interest. Be inquisitive about unfamiliar circumstances. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Be cautious and use your head wisely in situations that deal with the use of machinery or vehicles. If you can’t trust someone, question the connection. Overindulgence may be a problem. You will have original ideas for ways to make extra money. CANCER (June 22-July 22) To avoid any minor health problems don’t get too stressed. If you’re feeling uncertain, spend some time alone and reevaluate your motives and needs. Minor health problems will cause setbacks if you haven’t taken proper care of yourself. You can’t help everyone. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Be prepared to make changes to your personal documents. You hard work and dedication will payoff, so stick to your guns and do your job well. Residential moves look hectic and sudden changes in your life are likely. Someone is trying to pull the wool over your eyes, and if you’re gullible, it may cost you. VIRGO (Aug 23-Sept 23) Brunch, a long walk, or a quiet dinner will secure your position in the relationship. You may need to make a choice. Refrain from arguing with your mate. Opportunities to get ahead are evident. LIBRA (Sept 24-Oct 23) Elders may get you going this week. Get ready to do some fancy footwork when it comes to taking care of your financial situation. Come up with solutions to the inefficiencies problems at work. You have a tendency to think that no one else will do things properly. SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 22) Avoid lovers who already have a relation ship, even if it is a bad one. Your energy will be high; however, if not channeled suitably, temper tantrums may erupt. You will upset your partner if you have spent money on things that aren’t necessary. Empty promises and a lack of cash may put a damper on your plans. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23-Dec 21) Try to lay your cards on the table. Talk to your mate and tell them how you feel. Minor health problems will cause setbacks if you haven’t taken proper care of yourself. You may not be able to help, but your support will be favorable. You may need a good friend. CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 20) Monitor your budget carefully to avoid unnecessary stress. You can get a promotion if you put in a little extra detail. Your quick wit and charm may help you in obtaining allies. Your emotional reaction will be dependent upon your partner’s responsiveness. Horoscopes courtesy of astrologer Michael Thiessen. For daily horoscopes go to www.astrology-online.com
February 14, 2013 n 11
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DOWNTOWN echo
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