Kamloops This Week January 25, 2023 publication

TRYING TO COPE AMID THE TRAUMA

CHRISTOPHER FOULDS KTW EDITOR editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

A woman whose ex-husband is charged with drugging and sexually assaulting the couple’s daughter as part of a child pornography video said she is trying to carry on as best she can as court proceedings continue.

Neither the woman nor her ex-husband can be identified due to a court-ordered publication ban imposed to protect the identities of the woman and her daughter.

“We’re getting by,” she told KTW. “It’s hard. We have a lot of resources in the community, support-wise, that we’ve been working with.”

The woman and her exhusband legally separated in May 2019.

Her ex-husband is awaiting his next court appearance, on Feb. 16 in Kamloops Law Courts. He is facing five charges, including possession of child pornography, distribution of child pornography and administrating a stupefying or overpowering drug.

He was arrested on Dec. 15 after Kamloops Mounties executed a search warrant at his home. Local police were

contacted by law enforcement in the United States and the BC Integrated Child Exploitation Unit.

Kamloops RCMP Sgt. Brian Merriman of the sex crimes unit said at the time that the investigation was treated as a priority to address the allegation that a child was at immediate risk of harm.

The accused was held in custody on those charges and for allegedly breaching an unrelated court conditional sentence order.

That alleged breach, as reported by Castanet, stemmed from the man’s guilty pleas in November to two charges of publishing an intimate image without consent. The man had shared with other women graphic sexual videos he had filmed of himself and his ex-wife, one of which his ex-wife did not recall being made as she was incapacitated.

He was sentenced to nine months of house arrest, followed by two years of probation, before being arrested on the new charges on Dec. 15.

The woman said she has had to take leave from work to care for her two children, noting supports such as

medical employment insurance have expired.

Due to the hard times she and her kids are facing, a family friend has created an online fundraiser to help cover costs of food, rent and other necessities of life.

It can be found online at gofundme.com by searching “Single Mother in need after trauma to her daughter.”

“She is struggling financially, she is not working because she has to be with her kids — and there is trauma,” the friend said as he explained the reason for the online fundraiser.

“We’re in the process of trying to figure out a longterm goal,” the woman told KTW. “I have always worked previously, but there has been a lot of trauma. We’re taking it one day at a time. I’m trying to keep as much normalcy in my kids’ lives as possible.”

While the struggle has been immense, she said she has been overwhelmed by the help she has received.

“I can’t fathom the amount of support we’ve had from family and friends,” she said. “One bad person doesn’t outshine all the amazing people in the world.”

Last spring, Kamloops This Week reported on a bid by the Fraserview Development Corporation to apply to the province’s Residential Tenancy Branch to evict residents of the 42 units at Pineview Heights, at 1920 Hugh Allan Dr., due to planned renovations. While legislation gives current tenants the right of first refusal (meaning they get first shot at moving back into their renovated unit), higher rents may have proved to be too expensive for them. In October, Fraserview withdrew its application to the Residential Tenancy Branch. Now, however, the company is selling the townhouse units individually, with the first few starting at $455,000.

STORY.

AN UPDATE ON THE PINEVIEW VALLEY RENOVICTION STORY

Fundraiser launched for woman whose ex-husband allegedly sexually assaulted their daughter

C I T Y PAG E

Jan 25, 2023

Stay Connec ted @CityofKamloops Kamloops.ca

Council Calendar

The public, media, delegations, and staff are encouraged to par ticipate in meetings vir tually through Zoom or to observe through the City YouTube channel

Januar y 25, 2023

2:00 pm - Finance Committee

Januar y 31, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council

7:00 pm - Public Hearing

Februar y 7, 2023

1:30 pm - Community Relations and Reconciliation Committee

Februar y 9, 2023

1:30 pm - Community and Protective Ser vice Committee

Februar y 14, 2023

10:00 am - Committee of the Whole

Februar y 22, 2023

1:30 pm - Development and Sustainability Committee

The complete 2023 Council Calendars is available online at: Kamloops.ca/CouncilPor tal

Council Meeting Recap

Sign up for the Council Highlights e -newsletter at: Kamloops.ca/Subscribe

Yard Waste Site Closures

The Bunker Road and Barnhar tvale Yard Waste Sites are now closed for the season. Cinnamon Ridge remains open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily

Indoor Walking Track

The Sandman Centre concourse is available for walk ing Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm until April 2023.

Due to K amloops Blazers home games and concer t schedules, some designated walk ing dates may not be available.

Pothole Season

With the current warm weather trend, you may notice more potholes popping up on our streets If you see a pothole, please slow down and proceed with caution We can only fill the ones we are aware of, so help us by repor ting a pothole with the MyK amloops app at: Kamloops.ca/MyKamloops

Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461

For after-hours emergencies, press 1.

V O LU N T E E R S WA N T E D

The K amloops Crime Prevention Unit is committed to work ing with the community to help make our City a safer place We operate the following programs and are look ing for more volunteers to join our team:

• Speed Watch/Cell Watch

• Lock Out Auto Crime

• 529 Garage

• Victim Ser vices

• Restorative Justice

Volunteers must be 19+ years of age, be proficient in English and possess a valid drivers’ license All volunteers must be willing to par ticipate in a security screening process and complete 120 hours per year

If you are interested in mak ing a difference in our community, are open to learning new sk ills, or want to connect with likeminded individuals, we would love to hear from you!

To submit your volunteer application, visit:

B U D G E T I N F O R M AT I O N S E S S I O N 2023

The City would like to consult and engage with residents about the 2023 budget, as we plan for the next five -year budget c ycle, from 2023 to 2027. Join staff and Council on Wednesday, Februar y 15, 2023 at 7:00 pm in the Spor ts Centre Lounge, McAr thur Island Spor t & Events Centre for an update and discussion on the provisional budget

Par ticipants will also learn about and discuss a number of business cases brought for ward by City staff and community groups, which Council will consider as additional budget items this year.

This will be the first budget approved by the newly elected City Council Let them k now your perspective on how it will affect you and your community.

For up -to - date event information and to subscribe for updates visit: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/Budget2023

Let's Talk K amloops is our engagement website where you can share your voice and shape our city Please subscribe to the project of interest to receive updates Sign up and speak up at: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca

P E R I O D P R O D U C T I N I T I AT I V E L AU N C H

The City of K amloops is tak ing action to address period pover ty in our community by piloting an initiative to offer free period (menstrual) products to City staff and to the public in select public washrooms Significant research spearheaded by the United Way British Columbia has brought to light the extent to which our population is negatively affected by barriers limiting access to these essential products The initiative will begin rolling out this week with product dispensers being installed in washrooms in the following facilities:

• City Hall

• 105 Seymour Street

• Tournament Capital Centre

• McAr thur Island Spor t & Event Centre

The City is eager to learn how the availability of products in these public locations will be received by local residents, and is hoping to expand availability to other public washrooms if the pilot is successful. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback through a shor t sur vey about the initiative at K amloops.ca/PeriodProducts The sur vey is also available by QR code where period products are being provided

For more information on the United Way ’s Period Promise Campaign visit: PeriodPromise.ca

Consider a Career With Us

Join our team of over 700 employees who work in a variety of fulfilling and challenging careers Visit: Kamloops.ca/Jobs

City Hall: 7 Victoria Street West, K amloops, BC, V2C 1A2 | 250-828-3311

WEATHER FORECAST

Jan. 25: Mainly sunny 4/-1 (hi/low)

Jan. 26: Clouds/showers 6/0 (hi/low)

Jan. 27: Clouds/showers 6/0 (hi/low)

Jan. 28: Sun/clouds 1/-10 (hi/low)

Jan. 29: Sun/clouds -5/-14 (hi/low)

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SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

Thompson Rivers University has released a statement backing a senior administrator who was cleared following a lengthy investigation into harassment and discriminatory conduct on behalf of two senior administrators at the school.

In the statement, which is attributed to Thompson Rivers University leadership, the group reaffirmed its support of Matt Milovick, who was cleared of wrongdoing following complaints made to the university in February 2021.

The complaints spawned a lengthy investigation initiated by the university’s board of governors and led by two lawyers, who made

up the investigation team.

The investigators found no wrongdoing on the part of Milovick.

Milovick told KTW by text message he supports the respectful workplace and prevention of harassment policy through which the investigation was conducted, but did not offer further comment.

“Having been fully exonerated in the investigation, I have been advised by my lawyer that the policy precludes comment by me concerning the substance at this time,” he wrote.

Initially, TRU refused to identify Milovick as the involved party who had been exonerated, citing privacy and employment laws.

The other subject of the investigation was Larry Phillips, TRU’s former head of human

Catch up on all the sports news in Canada’s Tournament Capital

ON AND OFF THE ICE AND THE COURT A23

ID of cleared TRU staffer confirmed

resources. Phillips left the university in December of 2021, but the university has not said why he did so.

The investigation found that 10 of the 55 allegations made by eight complainants could be substantiated, none of which were against Milovick.

Milovick serves as the university’s vice-president of administration and finance. Fairbairn said Milovick will continue in that role.

“Matt is an important member of our senior executive team. His contributions to the capital development and operational progress of TRU over the years are well-known and appreciated by all who work and study here, as well as by members of the broader regional community,” TRU’s statement concludes.

— CHARIS KAMPHUIS, TRU law professor

says reforms needed

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

A Thompson Rivers University professor has myriad concerns with how the university handled its investigation into claims of harassment against two senior administrators — and said reform is needed.

Last week, the university revealed a heavily redacted, 527page report examining 55 allegations from eight complainants against two senior administrators, finding 10 allegations, all against one of the administrators, to be credible.

The substantiated allegations centred around inappropriate comments amounting to sexual

harassment against women in the workplace or in social settings. One other allegation was deemed harassment targeting a particular age group, another involved a comment derogatory to Indigenous people and another was personal harassment.

Charis Kamphuis, a law professor at the university and advocate for the complainants, said the

mechanisms of oversight on TRU’s executives need to be overhauled. She said the confirmed misconduct begs the question of the university why the behaviour had been able to continue with apparent impunity, to the point where there were so many complainants with various allegations.

“It is not normal to have 55 allegations against two senior leaders like this. That, to me, points to a systemic problem with oversight with members of the executive and a need to develop a better system for that.”

In the spring of 2022, residents of Pineview Heights received this letter from Fraserview Development Corporation. After an October pre-conference hearing with the Residential Tenancy Board, Fraserview withdrew its application and has now listed all 42 townhomes for sale.

From planned renoviction to townhome for sale signs

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Tenants of a Pineview Valley townhouse rental complex who were preparing for a Residential Tenancy Board (RTB) hearing last fall regarding their landlord’s socalled renoviction plans now face the possibility of having their homes sold out from under them.

Up to 42 families, many with school-aged children, in the Pineview Heights complex at 1920 Hugh Allan Dr. faced possible eviction from landlord Fraserview Development Corporation last June when the company applied to have tenants vacated from their rental apartments to accommodate a mass renovation of the 20-year-old complex.

Numerous tenants had planned to fight the application, but the landlord has since opted to sell the units.

The 42 townhomes are now listed for sale with Royal LePage, starting at $455,00, with a handful of units listed online.

A source with knowledge of the situation, who KTW has agreed not to name, said tenants are “on edge” because nobody knows when their unit will sell and how long they will have to find a new place to live. The source

said it’s difficult to now find an appropriate rental, noting alternatives of comparable size aren’t listed for remotely close to tenants’ current rent, given the current market.

One tenant told KTW last summer that she and her family paid about $1,850 in rent at Pineview Heights and could not afford an increase.

The person with knowledge of the situation said other rentals in Pineview are scarce, so tenants are faced with the possibility of having to uproot their families. Some tenants are considering moving to Alberta, citing the unaffordability of housing in Kamloops.

Others are waiting out the situation until they have to move, the person said, noting Fraserview’s real estate team told tenants it will be trying to match investment buyers with units that have tenants.

The source claimed Fraserview told tenants they will sell the units that become vacant first, but one tenant noted their townhome was recently shown to a prospective buyer. The sign outside the complex, however, states all 42 units are available for sale. The source said they are not aware of any tenants who are buying their rentals or who are in a position to make that purchase.

Kelly Melnyk of the Thompson Rivers University

the RTB without explanation shortly after an October pre-conference hearing.

“It seems to me they didn’t want to go through the process of the hearing, which is always a risk for both sides,” Melnyk said.

Melnyk said under the Residential Tenancy Act, tenants cannot be evicted unless the buyer intends to move in. If that happens, tenants must be given two months’ notice. Melnyk said those who purchase the property as an investment are obligated to keep the existing tenants on at their current rental rate.

“They’re assuming that arrangement,” Melnyk said.

The landlord for Pineview Heights, Fraserview director Curtis Schlosser, told KTW last spring the complex needed “substantial” renovations.

“My family owns it as a business and we want to keep it for another 25 years and keep renting it, but I can’t keep Band-Aiding everything. It’s just nickeling and diming me to death,” he said.

Schlosser is out of the country and unavailable for comment.

Community Legal Clinic, which was representing tenants for free in the renoviction application, said Fraserview withdrew its application to

TRUFA calls for school to work with all groups

From A5

“It is not normal to have 55 allegations against two senior leaders like this,” Kamphuis said. “That, to me, points to a systemic problem with oversight with members of the executive and a need to develop a better system for that.”

TRU vice-president of finance and administration Matt Milovick and former associate vice-president of people and culture Larry Phillips were the subjects of complaints filed in February 2021. Last week, Milovick confirmed to KTW he had been fully exonerated in the investigation.

TRU has said it has developed safe, trauma-informed avenues for employees to report concerns and

will create safe spaces for employees to talk about improving workplace culture. Kamphuis, however, said TRU’s actions require a significant amount of protection and support for complainants moving forward — more than the “vague commitments” the university has offered so far.

She said one area that needs updating is TRU’s whistleblower policy, which she described as “extremely weak” as it doesn’t provide supports or protection from retaliation to complainants.

Kamphuis, who was one of the complainants and has knowledge of other allegations, noted numerous concerns with the investigation.

She said just because 45 of 55 claims were deemed unsubstantiated

doesn’t mean they didn’t occur.

“It just means the complainant didn’t have enough evidence,” Kamphuis said.

She said she was shocked there weren’t more substantiated allegations, given the number that were made, believing it’s a sign investigators employed a very high bar for complainant credibility.

“Things happen in private you basically can’t prove or you’ve told a partner or a friend or colleague afterwards, but that’s just not enough to prove to investigators,” she said. “They were very demanding with the standard they took.”

Kamphuis said she feels TRU handled the investigation in an adversarial way, noting it spent

Equipment at RIH damaged

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

Water damage from a flood in December has temporarily shuttered the medical imaging department at Royal Inland Hospital and may hinder procedures until spring.

A burst water line on Dec. 23 led to damage to an X-ray machine and CT scanner that could not be repaired. Replacement machines have been ordered, but they are not expected to arrive until March.

Kim Perris, Interior Health’s medical imaging

For more local newss, go online to kamloopsthisweek. com

director for ThompsonCariboo, said patients who are willing to travel can also be booked at hospitals in Salmon Arm and Vernon, which Perris said is helping to alleviate the pressure at RIH.

Due to the flooding on Dec. 23, RIH was forced to close one CT scanner, two x-ray rooms and a radiography suite.

Perris said that meant CT

services were operating at a reduced capacity, along with some other select procedures, and were being performed in another radiology suite.

As of Jan. 17, two of the three X-ray machines were back in operation and one CT scanner was operating at a reduced capacity.

According to Perris, emergency services for priority in-patients will be communicated with primary-care practitioners.

Meanwhile, outpatients who need X-rays for chest, knee and spine will be referred to one of the two private X-ray clinics in Kamloops.

$1 million in legal costs during the investigation, but provided no funding for case managers to help complainants navigate the process.

Kamphuis was also concerned that investigators looked at whether complainants’ involvement with media impacted their credibility and that TRU blacked out in the report the number of complainants it excluded from the investigation.

Kamphuis said she hopes people will continue to speak out against abuse regardless of the report’s findings.

“That’s the only way we will improve our institutions,” Kamphuis said. “It won’t be fixed by one investigation and one complainant, but I think the more people do it, the

stronger other people get.”

TRU Faculty Association president Tara Lyster said she is “heartbroken” for those who were shown to have experienced harassment.

“I want to acknowledge the bravery of those who came forward to make those complaints,” she said. “Now, we need to work toward ensuring there’s zero tolerance and that it doesn’t happen again.”

Lyster said the school needs to move forward with all campus groups.

“They can’t move forward without us. That includes TRUSU, CUPE, all of us. There needs to be a concerted effort to move us forward, because there has been so much harm on campus,” she said.

Kamloops This Week is a politically independent newspaper, published Wednesdays at 1365-B Dalhousie Dr., Kamloops, B.C., V2C 5P6 Phone: 250-374-7467 | Fax: 250-374-1033 email: editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

Feasts for the mind, heart and soul

Universities perform many beneficial roles, but one of them often does not get the attention deserved.

Universities act as convenors to bring together knowledgeable people for evidence-informed discussion of important issues.

Conferences hosted by institutions such as Thompson Rivers University explore issues important to society, helping us to stay on the cutting edge of knowledge.

It may be about researchinformed insights by faculty from TRU or elsewhere. It may be about Indigenous ways of knowing. It may be a conference featuring practicebased knowledge from people who work in a field or a profession. Some of the best and most interesting conferences combine multiple forms of knowledge.

Such an event is happening at TRU this week. The seventh annual TRU Privacy and Security Conference gets underway on Thursday, Jan. 26.

More than 200 people are expected to attend and learn about a wide variety of technology, security and privacy topics. This year’s theme will focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing impact on our lives.

These are important topics for discussion. Artificial intelligence is quietly expanding its presence in ways that most of us may not see. Experts agree that AI, machine and deep-learning models are transforming the world.

Some people suggest that AI will prove to be a boon for humanity, while others argue it threatens our very existence. There’s a broad range of possibilities between those two

FAIRBAIRN

ends; however, what is likely is that AI will change many things. Whether beneficial or detrimental depends on how aware we are of the changes and whether we have the skills to guard against their impact.

We need insight.

One AI platform, which is on the agenda at this year’s conference, has seen extensive publicity recently.

ChatGPT, an online AI chatbot created to provide detailed answers to questions in natural language, burst into the public’s consciousness almost overnight.

The extensive debate around the platform has been interesting to follow. Some suggest ChatGPT could threaten academic integrity, generate new forms of misinformation, limit the need for knowledge worker or create more destructive malware. Others see only benefits.

To learn more about what ChatGPT is capable of, I logged on to the platform and posed the algorithm the following question: “Does ChatGPT pose a threat to academic integrity at universities?”

The algorithm generated the fol-

lowing response (text in italics) in less than 15 seconds:

“ChatGPT, like other language models, has the potential to pose a threat to academic integrity at universities if it is used to generate plagiarized or false content. For example, students may use the model to create papers or assignments that are not their own original work, or to fabricate data for research projects. This could lead to a loss of trust in the integrity of the academic system and the devaluation of degrees earned through such means.

“However, ChatGPT can also be used as a tool to help detect and prevent academic dishonesty. For example, universities can use the model to check papers and assignments for plagiarism, which can help identify instances of cheating and ensure that students are held accountable for their actions. Additionally, ChatGPT can be used to generate summaries, or check for grammatical errors, which can make the learning process more efficient.

“The key is the responsible use of the technology. It is important for

universities to establish clear guidelines and policies regarding the use of language models like ChatGPT in academic settings, and to provide education and training on academic integrity and ethical use of technology to students and faculty. This will help to minimize the potential risks and ensure that the benefits of the technology are fully realized.

“In conclusion, ChatGPT can pose a threat to academic integrity if used irresponsibly, but it can also be a valuable tool in detecting and preventing academic dishonesty when used properly. Universities should be aware of the potential risks and establish guidelines and policies for the responsible use of the technology in academic settings.”

Microsoft Word’s text analysis tools report that the above passage has a Flesch reading ease score of 34 and a Flesch-Kincaid reading level of 14. That means the text is at the college level and that two-thirds of our population might need help to write to this level or fully follow along.

Grammarly, an online AI-powered writing assistant,

checked the passaged for plagiarism and reported: “Looks like your text is 100 per cent original. We found no matching text in our databases or on the Internet.”

While the passage is not perfect — it has a bland ambiguous feel that might tip off a perceptive or wary reviewer — the 266 words ChatGPT generated may be good enough to pass unnoticed in many settings.

Without question, many people, including educators, will need to understand and adapt to the risk that such algorithms pose to authenticity of texts and words.

Conferences like the one underway this week at TRU will help us learn how to do so.

And all that is just one topic, addressed in one workshop on this one conference’s agenda. Truly, a conference that brings together so many leading thinkers and practitioners is a feast for the mind, heart and soul.

Dr. Brett Fairbairn is president at Thompson Rivers University.

He can be reached by email at president@tru.ca.

Letters to the editor can be sent via email to editor@kamloops thisweek.com and via Canada Post to 1365B Dalhousie Dr., Kamloops, B.C., V2C 5P6. Please include your name and a contact phone number and/or email. Please try to limit letters to a maximum word count of 300. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

DIGITAL DESIGNERS

DIGITAL SALES: Manager: Chris Wilson

Jackson Vander Wal

FRONT OFFICE Front office staff: Lorraine Dickinson Angela Wilson Marilyn Emery Rosalynn Bartella

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View From TRU

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR OPINION

MAYOR NEEDS TO UNDERSTAND ROLE

Editor:

As the face and chief spokesperson of the city, prime amongst the duties of mayor is to represent the city in all instances where the municipality is involved.

It does not appear that Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson understands his role.

It’s not a matter of “taking credit” away from someone else when speaking at city events. It’s a matter of representing the city and showing the gratitude of the citizens for the efforts of the organizations and individuals who have brought about change.

The mayor graciously accepts these things on behalf of the city and gives credit where credit is due.

The mayor’s role is not to push one’s own agenda and impose one’s will upon others.

It’s a matter of working collaboratively with the other members of council toward common goals and objectives that contribute to the betterment of our commu-

nity. We cannot move forward if we don’t have a unified team.

If Hamer-Jackson doesn’t understand this, then he either needs to quickly do what it takes for him to get comfortable performing the duties of mayor and act as such or step down immediately and quit wasting everyone’s time.

Ron Wiebe Kamloops

FOSSIL FUEL SUBSIDIES NEED TO END

Editor:

Contrary to what Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says, advocates of a just transition don’t believe we can stop using oil and gas overnight, but we do understand the fossil fuel era is coming to an end and Canada urgently needs to prepare.

Everyone from climate scientists to the United Nations to the International Energy Agency have been clear that the world cannot tackle the climate crisis and keep expanding fossil fuel production at the same time.

As UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres bluntly put it: “Investing

in new fossil fuels infrastructure is moral and economic madness.”

We need to stop all fossil fuel subsidies and instead direct them to green infrastructure.

Big Oil and its allies may still deny this reality, but climate action and the energy transition is accelerating. It’s long past time for Trudeau to deliver the Just Transition Act he promised years ago.

If he’s serious about climate action, the legislation must align with Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change science by stopping fossil fuel expansion in its tracks, guarantee a good, green job to any-

one who wants one and put people — not corporate profits — first by sending support and resources directly to workers and communities. This includes stopping natural gas expansion in B.C. and immediately stopping gas to all new construction projects.

I’ll be pushing my MP and MLAs to make this their top priority in Parliament and in the B.C. Legislature.

We must do this so there is a future for many generations to come.

Bob Trudeau Kamloops

STEAMING MAD OVER THAT DOO-DOO

Editor:

Warmer weather arrived, along with evidence of lazy people who do not pick up their dog’s doo-doo.

I have a German shepherd and I have a little device on my leash for carrying poo bags — about

$3 at most pet stores.

I’ve noticed a lot of big dog poo everywhere in Brocklehurst.

The city has a bylaw stating dog owners must pick up their dog’s excrement and I’m tired of having to walk around it, keeping my dog from

tracking through it and seeing it on people’s lawns, especially on corner lots or near care homes.

It’s disgusting and rude.

It is the responsibility of dog owners to pick up after their pets and to

be considerate of other people and their property, so I’m writing this letter in an attempt to convince people to take responsibility, start carrying dog bags and clean up after their pets.

Cindy Rose Kamloops

Kamloops This Week is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour.

If you have concerns about editorial content, please email  editor@kamloopsthisweek.com or call 250-374-7467

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at  mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163

Kamloops Mayor Reid HamerJackson was elected on Oct. 15, 2022.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Mayor seeks input from election candidates

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson wants input on city council’s strategic planning from all candidates who ran in last year’s civic election.

Hamer-Jackson told KTW he is trying to reach out to his four mayoral challengers and the 15 unsuccessful councillor candidates to gauge their opinions ahead of council’s strategic planning meeting which is set for Jan. 27.

The mayor said he feels it would be a good idea to include input from more people who put their names on the ballot as they would likely have ideas from their campaigns on ways to improve Kamloops.

“It’s just a thought to include people that have all been running to make Kamloops a better place and I’m here to make Kamloops a better place,” Hamer-Jackson said.

“And if we can get more

participants in there, especially people who ran for mayor and council, why wouldn’t we?”

Former councillor and mayoral candidate Arjun Singh said Hamer-Jackson reached out to him about the idea, noting he agreed to offer some suggestions. Ultimately, though, Singh feels such decisions have to come from the elected council.

“Those people rose to the top of the ballot and that’s their

responsibility and their role now,” Singh told KTW, noting the city’s recently published community satisfaction survey was deliberately timed to be published in time for the new council’s strategic planning session.

Singh said while it’s admirable Hamer-Jackson wants to invite the candidate field into the strategic planning process, it’s important not to give any one person or group

TF SAs - A Less Taxing Way to Invest

Rewind to 2009 when Barrack Obama made history being inaugurated as the first African American President of the United States. It was also the birth of the Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) in Canada

In the early years, investors were keen to see how much interest they could make on this new ‘savings’ account We quickly realized perhaps a better name would have been a Tax-Free Investment Account to help promote that investors were not limited to just savings and can hold many different investment options similar to Retirement Savings Plans (RSPs).

How they work :

A Canadian resident can open a TFSA at age of majority, which is 19 years old in BC Available room starts accumulating at age 18 and, similar to RSPs, unused contribution room is available for future use The 2023 annual limit is now $6,500 and the lifetime limit is $88,000 Monies in a TFSA can be withdrawn anytime and any gains (interest, dividends or capital appreciation) are completely tax free Investors can also replace any withdrawals the following calendar year without impacting available limits.

You can look up your individual TFSA room online with Revenue Canada or with help from your tax professional. We recommend that individuals only open one TFSA account for ease of tracking deposits and withdrawals The penalties for over contributing are strict and levied at 1% per month by Revenue Canada

Pro Tip#1: If maxed out, you can give money to your spouse to invest in their TFSA without any tax implications and utilize their available room

For estate planning purposes, Tax Free Accounts have the ability to name a beneficiary so that proceeds can flow taxfree and avoid probate

Pro tip #2: If electing your spouse as beneficiary, we recommend having them named as successor annuitant as this allows the deceased’s TFSA to be added to survivor ’s TFSA without affecting the spouse’s contribution room

The Power of Tax-Free Savings

Example 1:

Bob starts investing in a TFSA with $6,500 a year and earns an average return of 5%. After 10 years, his TFSA would grow to $85,844. In 20 years, he would amass $225,675 that he never pays tax on ever.

Example 2:

Sara receives an inheritance and places $88,000 into a new TFSA, maxing it out She never adds another dollar and averages 5% a year return After 10 years, her TFSA would be worth $143,343 In 20 years, her TFSA would surpass $233,490 or grow by 165% tax free!

TFSA or RSP?

any privilege in the process just because they ran for office. He added that any such consultation should be done with the consent of the rest of city council.

Hamer-Jackson said he had not posed the idea to the rest of council as of Jan. 23, but feels it’s a positive step that will be inclusive of more of the community. He told KTW it will ultimately be up to council to decide if any feedback it receives is included in the new strategic plan.

Hamer-Jackson said he has his own ideas for strategic planning, noting he has read the previous council’s 20192022 document and wants to see more of it implemented. He said he would also like to tweak some of it, such as making community safety a higher priority.

Former candidates who wish to provide feedback on strategic planning are asked to contact the mayor and council at city hall, at 250-828-3311.

A common question we are asked is, “Is it better to save in an RSP or TFSA? ” The answer will depend on individual circumstance and income An RSP contribution will get you a tax deduction, investments grow tax deferred and taxed upon withdrawal This is typically in retirement when individuals should be in a lower tax bracket than their working years

A TFSA is funded with after-tax dollars and receives no tax deduction, but all future growth is tax-free and withdrawals are not taxed at all

If you are currently in a lower tax bracket and anticipate remaining in low bracket in retirement, then contributing to your TFSA rather than your RSP could make more sense

Conversely, if you are in a higher tax bracket and anticipate being in a lower bracket in retirement, then an RSP contribution could be better served

Another instance a TFSA can be beneficial is if you receive a windfall (inheritance, proceeds from house sale, gift, etc ), as investing in your TFSA keeps all future growth tax free

As always, we encourage working with a financial professional to discuss what works best for your specific circumstance

Written by Keith Davis

Invest Well. Live Well.

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson speaks during an all-candidates forum at Desert Gardens Community Centre last September.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Residents say safety, quality of life has declined in Kamloops

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson said he feels safer in Mexico than he does in his hometown.

“I feel much safer in parts of Mexico than I do in Kamloops, British Columbia,” Hamer-Jackson said as council on Jan. 17 discussed the city’s 2022 Citizen Satisfaction Survey, which revealed residents surveyed feel less safe and believe quality of life has declined. The mayor spent the Christmas break with family in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

The survey was conducted between Oct. 18 and Nov. 8 of last year and involved 405 telephone and 369 online participants. The results were compared to input from the 2019 survey.

Sixty-four per cent of respondents feel quality of life in Kamloops has worsened in the past three years, with only seven per cent saying it has improved. The net improved/ worsened score of -57 per cent was the lowest recorded since 2003. Homelessness/poverty (46 per cent), increased crime (45 per cent), cost of living/ housing affordability (22 per cent), drug use (15 per cent) and health care (12 per cent) led in area cited as contributing to a deteriorating quality of life in Kamloops.

Of note, homelessness/ poverty was cited by 14 per cent of respondents in 2019 as being a factor for poorer quality of life, while it was not cited as a factor in the citizen satisfaction surveys of 2016 or 2012.

The survey found 80 per cent of respondents feel Kamloops has become less safe since 2019, with 45 per cent opining the city has become “a lot less safe.” In fact, the percentage of residents surveyed who feel the city has become safer has declined has dropped dramatically over the years:

• 2022: 11 per cent;

• 2019: 32 per cent;

• 2016: 36 per cent;

• 2012: 40 per cent;

• 2009: 42 per cent;

• 2006: 37 per cent;

• 2003: 34 per cent.

In addition, more people (38 per cent) would not recommend Kamloops as a place to live than those (22 per cent) who would.

Winsome Stec of Forum Research, which conducted the survey, said the results concerning safety and quality of life are not surprising, given similar findings arose in surveys in communities across Canada since the onset of the pandemic.

Hamer-Jackson, however, challenged that narrative and argued council needs to focus

on its own community.

“I don’t believe we should stay in our own lane,” he said in response to comments from Coun. Steven Karpuk, who used the lane reference when noting many of the factors in the quality of life and safety portions of the survey are the responsibility of senior levels of government.

While most respondents feel quality of life in Kamloops has declined, the majority of those who took the survey — 83 per cent — still said quality of life in the city is good. That is a decrease from the 95 per cent in 2019 who deemed quality of life in Kamloops as being good.

Other findings from the survey:

• Nice weather (30 per cent), access to amenities (25 per cent) and access to green spaces (24 per cent) led the way in top qualities cited by respondents that make Kamloops a good place to live.

• Seventy-five per cent of respondents are satisfied with opportunities and venues for arts and cultural activities.

• Ninety per cent of respondents are satisfied overall with recreation and sports programs.

• Seventy-one per cent of respondents feel they receive good value for their tax dollars. That is down from 80 per cent in 2019.

THANK YOU!

We look forward to continuing to support ICCHA-Wish in the future!

$5,000 towards the establishment of the ICCHA-WISH Community Education Centre at the new nursing building at the Thompson Rivers University Money raised for the ICCHA-WISH Endowment fund will help educate local nursing students in financial need to become a nurse

Mr Anil Parekh and Mrs Anil Parekh Founding members of the ICCHA-WISH Fund

Police investigating after bones found near Peterson Creek

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Kamloops RCMP and the BC Coroner are investigating after bones were found in an area near Peterson Creek on Jan. 19.

Police attended the scene at about 12:30 p.m. after receiving the report and are now trying to determine whether or not the bones are human.

The bones were found in an area east of Peterson Creek located above the 700-block of the East Trans-Canada Highway, just west of the Highway 1/Highway 5 interchange near Valleyview.

“Right now, police are working with the BC Coroners Service to confirm if the bones are human and if so, who they belonged to,” said Cpl. Crystal Evelyn.

“From there, the investigation will continue into the circumstances surrounding their discovery.”

Evelyn told KTW police were conducting searches in the area with a cadaver dog. She said how many bones were found is part of the investigation.

She said the bones were found in a gated, bushy area south of the highway, not clearly visible from

the road — between the Peterson Creek Bridge and a runaway truck lane and west of exit 374, which is near Rose Hill Road.

Anyone with information regarding the investigation, or who may have come across any other bones in the area, is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and reference file number 2023-2261.

Evelyn said an update will be provided when available, but at this time, police are not releasing further information.

A human bone was found near the Kamloops Airport last spring, which turned out to belong to 22-year-old David Bosanac, who was reported missing on March 18. The circumstances of his death remain a mystery.

$2.8-billion settlement reached

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

A residential school-related class-action lawsuit against the federal government, launched by Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and the shíshálh Nation in Sechelt in 2012, has been settled.

The federal government has agreed to pay $2.8 billion into a new trust fund that will operate for 20 years, pending Federal Court approval of the deal.

The lawsuit, known as the Gottfriedson Band Class, was launched by then-Tk’emlúps chief Shane Gottfriedson and the shíshálh Nation in a bid to seek reparations for the loss of language and culture brought on by Indian residential schools, including the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.

The $2.8-billion fund will be run independent of the federal government. It will be governed by a board of nine Indigenous directors, one of whom will be chosen by the federal government.

In exchange, the claimants agreed to “fully, finally and forever” release the Crown from claims that could conceivably arise from the collective harms residential schools inflicted on First Nations, as alleged in a previous court filing.

“Our nations started this lawsuit because we saw the devastating impacts that residential schools had on our nations as a whole,” Gottfriedson said.

“The residential school system decimated our languages, profoundly damaged our cultures and

left a legacy of social harms. The effects go beyond my generation. It will take many generations for us to heal. This settlement is about taking steps towards undoing the damage that was done to our nations.”

Garry Feschuk, former chief of the shíshálh Nation, added: “It has taken Canada far too long to own up to its history, own up to the genocide it committed and recognize the collective harm caused to our nations by residential schools. It is time that Canada not only recognizes this harm, but helps undo it by walking with us. This settlement is a good first step.”

Current Tk’emlúps Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir said Canada spent more than a century trying to destroy First Nations languages and cultures through residential schools.

“Canada did not succeed, but

it did cause profound damage,” Casimir said. “It is going to take incredible efforts by our Nations to restore our languages and culture. This settlement gives Nations the resources and tools needed to make a good start.”

Indigenous Relations Minister Marc Miller said the federal government believes all residential school survivors deserve justice and compensation.

“As we finalize this settlement, we are reminded of the importance of collaborative dialogue and partnership in resolving historic grievances outside of the court system,” Miller said.

“Together, we have developed a settlement that will support the band class members in their healing journeys for generations to come.”

This settlement builds on the 2021 Gottfriedson Day Scholars

settlement. That settlement provides compensation to the thousands of students who attended an Indian residential school, but did not reside at the institution, and who were alive as of May 30, 2005.

Under the terms of that agreement, all eligible day scholars will receive $10,000 in individual compensation for attending an Indian residential school as a day scholar.

According to the federal government, between 12,000 and 20,000 day scholars were alive as of May 30, 2005.

The settlement also provides $50 million toward the creation of the Day Scholars Revitalization Society, an Indigenous-led not-for-profit corporation to support healing, wellness, education, language, culture, heritage and commemoration activities.

The former Kamloops Indian Residential School operated from 1890 to 1969, then from 1969 to 1978 as a school for day scholars.

SEAN BRADY/KTW

Complex care beds open in Kamloops

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

The first four of 20 complex care beds pegged for Kamloops are now taking in clients.

Announced by Interior Health last week, the first home — a four-bedroom residence on the North Shore — began accepting clients on Jan. 23. All four residents are expected to be moved in by the end of this week.

In February, Interior Health will open a sevenbed residential complex care home somewhere on Kamloops’ south shore, though an exact date for that is still to be determined.

The health authority isn’t disclosing the locations of the beds for privacy reasons, given that they are in small batches of up to eight units per site.

Carla Mantie, Interior Health’s director of mental

health and substance use, told KTW the remaining eight beds are expected to open in one or two other Kamloops homes by March 31. Homes are currently being scouted.

“We’re looking out in Valleyview and different areas of town to ensure people [tenants] that have connections with those communities have options to stay within those communities,” Mantie said.

Interior Health is having clients move into their new homes in a staggered approach to allow clients and their care team to get to know one another and commence their care plan, Mantie said.

The first client of the North Shore complex care site moved in on Jan. 23.

The homes are set up with communal spaces, including kitchens and living rooms, and bedrooms and storage spaces.

“Some [houses] have been

used for group homes in the past. That saves us doing tenant improvements and just changing it to meet our needs,” Mantie said.

All homes will have 24-hour supervision and support staff on site.

Mantie said the goal is to make the clients evictionresistant by learning life skills, but she added they are also allowed to live at their placement indefinitely.

Those who choose to move on to other housing will still have access to their support team.

Mantie said the difference between complex care and the supportive housing services already ongoing in Kamloops is the fact people in complex care never have to leave the setting.

“This is a chance for them to have stable housing that is extremely supportive,” she said, noting there will be between two and four care

workers from Active Care stationed around the clock at the homes, coupled with a clinical care team provided by Interior Health.

To be admitted to a complex care home, one must have a mental-health and substance-use disorder, but it doesn’t have to have been formally diagnosed, Mantie said.

Clients are typically homeless individuals who have been evicted from other shelter situations and who may also have medical and/or psychosocial issues.

“Most of the people that are being referred and coming into our homes are known by multiple care providers,” Mantie said.

She said the first four people being accepted into the North Shore beds were known by multiple organizations that agreed those people needed the program.

After

our Franchise Agreement has recently expired. Accordingly, we are now changing our name here in Kamloops to Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services.

To the many families we’ve served over the years, please know that we’re the same people, at the same address and the same phone number. The only thing that has changed is our name and website address. Our people, phone number and address remain the same.

TOM LAVIN & THE LEGENDARY

PHOTO

AN ANTI-RACISM ACTION PLAN

South Kamloops secondary Grade 12 student Aneecia Thomas (left) was among those speaking at this past Monday’s announcement in Kamloops of a provincewide anti-racism action plan. Aneecia spoke of how she has been the target of racism. She is involved in fighting racism as part of Motion of Colour, an organization dedicated to racial justice through discussions led by youth and an education-based approach to anti-racism. Education Minister Rachna Singh (middle) was at the Henry Grube Education Centre in North Kamloops to announce details. The action plan is intended to create change in B.C. schools by raising awareness and creating resources to improve the school experience for racialized students, staff and families, with a goal of having everyone feel a strong sense of belonging. In the Kamloops-Thompson school district, for example, more than 100 students of diverse backgrounds are working with district staff to share their experiences and ideas to help develop a district-wide anti-racism plan. Read more about the action plan by going online to kamloopsthisweek.com.

BREANNE MASSEY/KTW

Ronik Security Ltd. has been serving Kamloops since 1972 and is 100% Canadian. We wish to thank our current and future loyal customers during this pandemic season! Our employees are proud to serve for your safety and security.

COMMUNITY

TNRL, Big Little Science Centre partner on passes

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Access to fun and handson science is now only a library card away.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library (TNRL) has teamed up with the Big Little Science Centre (BLSC) to offer its free passes to patrons to borrow with their library card.

The move comes in time for Family Literacy Week in B.C., which takes place through Jan. 28, providing an opportunity for TNRD residents to find different ways to explore, discover and learn.

The pass is valid for one visit per group — up to two adults and all dependent

children 18 years of age and under or up to two grandparents with grandchildren who are siblings.

Visitors can place a hold on the pass at tnrl.ca, or through their local library. The pass may be borrowed for up to one week. Only one member of the group is required to have a valid library card to acquire the pass.

“Beyond books, we are proud to offer enriching experiences for our patrons to check out from their closest TNRL location,” said Jenny Abramzik, TNRL manager of discovery and support services.

Located at Seymour

Street and Fifth Avenue in downtown Kamloops, the Big Little Science Centre was created in 2000 by the late Gordon Gore, a retired science teacher at the time who dedicated his life to teaching science in an interactive environment.

“The BLSC is excited about this partnership. It allows community members who may not have had an opportunity to visit the science centre the chance to do so,” Big Little Science Centre executive director Gord Stewart said.

For more information about community passes or to place your hold, visit tnrl. ca/community-passes.

Call for schools to band together

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Valleyview secondary and the Kamloops Music Collective are inviting Grade 6 and Grade 7 students to attend a program designed to introduce youths to concert band.

The program is being led by Valleyview secondary band teacher Jaymi Daniels and

is supported by Kamloops Music Collective program coordinator Lucas An.

The five-week program will give students a chance to interact with peers who will be attending the same high school in 2023 or 2024, while also exploring their potential future music program.

The program will run on Thursdays between Jan. 26

and Feb. 23, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Valleyview secondary’s music room.

Feeder elementary schools include Marion Schilling, Ralph Bell, Juniper Ridge, Dallas and R.L. Clemitson.

Registration is $53.35 and includes snacks. Email info@kamloopsmusiccollective.ca for more information.

WHEN THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT

DAVE EAGLES/KTW DAVE EAGLES STAFF REPORTER dave_eagles@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kennell’s Shoes celebrated 75 years of business this month. The venerable Victoria Street store with the classic neon sign on the storefront has now seen four generations of Kennell family at the helm.

Originally located at 223 Victoria St., the store was founded in 1948 by Robert Kennell. That same year, Memorial Arena opened just a few blocks down Victoria Street.

It was the era when you could grab a quick shoe shine on a downtown city sidewalk — a tradition long since gone.

Ten years later, the store moved to 249 Victoria St. and, later, saw Robert Kennell’s son, Bob, take over the shop with wife Rita Cordonier in 1976.

In 1982, their daughter, Beverly, and son, Steven, began working in the store, eventually taking over full responsibilities of running the business in 2000 and

marking the third generation to do so.

Fast forward 23 years and a member of the family’s fourth generation — Jessica McMillan, daughter of Steven — is carrying on the tradition.

While shoe styles have changed over the years, some things have remained the same. Hardwood floors, brick walls and the scent of fine leather greet you upon arrival, McMillan said, noting the level of customer service people have come to know also continues.

“I’m excited to carry on our family store’s long-standing tradition,” McMillan said.

Her impact is already evident, as the store recently launched its website, which features a variety of footwear for men and women, children’s shoes and casual to high-end dress and work shoes.

McMillan said she is hoping to bring the family’s traditional touch to modern retail.

She said they are able to hand-pick everything brought into the store.

“We do like to have our core products and the styles within them, year

after year, because those are our top-selling things,” McMillan said.

She said the store has recently seen more younger families coming in to buy baby and children’s shoes.

“One family that’s come in, I started waiting on the them when they had just started dating,” McMillan said. “Then she came in looking for wedding shoes and, the next thing you know, she comes in and she’s pregnant. Then she comes in again, she has her baby and her husband’s coming in looking for her new Birkenstocks.

“I realized I’ve been seeing them over the course of nine years, as their life has progressively changed — and they’re still coming in.”

Having worked in the store over the past decade, McMillan said the timing was right for her father to retire.

“I always told my dad I was interested,” McMillan said.

McMillan said her dad is still coming in once a week to do the bookkeeping, keeping him a part of their storied family business.

Jessica McMillan is the fourth generation of family to operate Kennell’s Shoes in Kamloops, taking over the 75-year-old shoe store from father Steven.

Annual campout took in $118,000 for under construction supportive housing

A Way Home Kamloops’ sixth annual Campout To End Youth Homelessness came up short of its $150,000 goal, but raised more than $118,000 for youth in need.

The non-profit dedicated to help homeless youth brought in $118,613 to put toward funding wraparound supports at the soon-to-be-constructed Katherine’s Place — a 39-unit housing complex for youth

that is set to rise at 560 and 562 Tranquille Rd. in North Kamloops.

Enbridge and the RBC Foundation helped launch the campaign with a combined donation of $25,000. The campout took place back on Dec. 9, with about 40 people attending McDonald Park and another 40 registered to camp virtually over Zoom.

Katherine’s Place, the joint A Way Home Kamloops and BC Housing project, will be low-barrier housing for youth ages 16 to 26, with bachelor and one-bedroom units. Construction is expected to begin this spring and take about 15 months to complete.

It is named after the late Katherine McParland, who founded A Way Home Kamloops.

Skate rentals at Valleyview Arena

PLAYKamloops

received $10,800 from the Kamloops Sports Legacy Fund to purchase skates, skate guards, helmets and cleaning materials.

Skates are available

for rent at the arena — located at Highland Rd. — for $3 during public skating. Valleyview Arena takes cash only. Guests are encouraged to bring a helmet with

them and are reminded they are mandatory for children under the age of 13.

Public skates at Valleyview Arena are Wednesdays, 5:45 p.m. to

6:45 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; and Sundays, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. until mid-March.

Fundraiser launched after rare spinal stroke

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

After losing mobility from the waist down three weeks ago, Sandra Zachary was taken to Royal Inland Hospital by ambulance.

The 74-year-old real estate paralegal from Webber Law was diagnosed with a very rare spinal stroke that affects 0.3.1 per cent of those suffering from strokes, resulting in paralysis.

Zachary meets with a physiotherapist three times daily in an effort to learn how to navigate with severely reduced mobility.

“Spinal stroke is extremely rare. It’s a constriction of blood vessels in the spine,” said Cheryl Wilson, a friend and colleague of Zachary’s. “Hers is in the lower spine and it fries the nerves.”

Zachary was widowed by husband Larry in 2018 and has only two relatives in Kamloops — a niece and nephew.

However, staff at Royal Inland Hospital have said Zachary may need to relocate to a rehabilitation program in Vancouver to learn the essentials of living in a wheelchair for as long as may be required.

Zachary has worked in Kamloops for more than 20 years and has no ties to the Vancouver area. She had extended time away from work until the end of December, but has since applied for medical employment insur-

ance with the firm’s assistance and is waiting for the application to be processed.

As a result, Wilson has created a GoFundMe page online to help Zachary with medical and relocation costs, housing and food for as long as possible.

Zachary declined to comment about her prognosis.

The goal of the fundraiser is to raise upwards of $20,000, but Wilson plans to keep the fundraiser open indefinitely as it is likely that Zachary will require help for quite some time.

“The prognosis is not great, but we pray every night for Sandra,” Wilson said, noting she visits her friend at RIH at least once a week. “She could use all the prayers she could get.”

Previously, Zachary and Wilson were longtime golf buddies who played the game faithfully every weekend and sometimes after work during the week.

The duo now stays in touch by text and phone on a regular basis, with face-to-face meetings when Zachary’s energy permits.

“She is focused on her health right now,” Wilson said, noting her friend is working incredibly hard to regain her mobility. “She is trying to think positive and stay positive.”

To make a donation or to learn more about Zachary’s medical updates, go online to gofundme.com and search “Sandra Zachary Medical Fund.”

Gong sounds on Jan. 26

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

The sound of traditional gongs will be heard on Thursday, Jan. 26.

Encore Music Productions and the Kamloops Japanese Cultural Association are collaborating with Rob Gretsinger to host a gong sound meditation at 7 p.m. in the Japanese Cultural Centre, located at 160 Vernon Ave. in North Kamloops.

While there won’t be a guided meditation, the aim of the event is to provide participants with a peaceful place to rest and enjoy the sound of various gongs exhibited at the performance.

The all-ages event will feature an hour-long demonstration, along with a brief question and answer period about the equipment.

It will be Gretsinger’s second performance at the Kamloops Japanese Cultural Centre. However, he makes monthly appearances at various public spaces in Greater Kamloops.

Those who plan to attend can contact Lance Yamada by phone at 250-319-7779 for more information. To register attendance, email encoremusic@ telus.net. There will be a $5 cover charge.

To find out more about Gretsinger, go online to facebook.com/kamloopsgongs.

R e a s o n t o c e l e b r a t e

team has been serving Kamloops organizations for more than 40 years, always staying ahead of the curve With access to both local and global KPMG professionals, this team brings unique insights to all your organization’s priority areas.

believe when insights drive action, great outcomes can happen Together with you - our Kamloops business community - we are focused on uncovering a world of opportunity

KPMG. From insights to opportunities.

Haley Coss

Kylor Docksey

Briana Guise

Amy Jantz

Alyssa Redmile

Sahar Tehrany

Sandra Zachary (left) and Cheryl Wilson on Jan. 23 during their weekly visit at Royal Inland Hospital. BREANNE MASSEY/KTW

How can I save in amount of taxes paid?

after the person with the health issues has passed away.

To see examples of some conditions, check our website at disabilitycreditsos.ca.

Diagnosis is not the qualifying factor. It is how the condition affects one’s daily living.

WHY AM I SO SUCCESSFUL?

I have been a disability tax credit specialist for nine years and I know the requirements for a successful application.

Agency and save medical professionals time by offering them my expertise on applications.

The disability tax credit is a gateway to other federal, provincial or territorial programs, including the registered disability savings plan (RDSP) and the child disability benefit.

Once eligible for the disability tax credit, people can then apply for other programs.

If you or a family member has a chronic medical condition, you may be entitled to a disability tax credit.

NELLIE KROMBACH

ON TAXES

disability tax credit.

That is birth to death and a supporting person may apply for a deceased family member for up to two years

Family benefit on way

The first of three enhanced BC Family Benefit payments begin this year.

The enhanced BC Family Benefit will provide families with moderate and low incomes, and children under 18, with more money in the first three months of 2023. The credit will provide as much as an additional $350 from January to March

The first step is assessing people to determine if they qualify. I don’t waste anyone’s time. If I don’t believe they qualify, I will not accept them as a client.

I collaborate with medical professionals to ensure the applications are explicable to the Canada Revenue

for a family with two children.

Approximately 75 per cent of B.C. families will receive the enhanced BC Family Benefit credit and approximately 84 per cent of those families will receive at least an additional $50 per month, per child.

Eligibility is based on income and number of children. It is automatically determined when

Nellie Krombach is general manager of Supportive Options & Solutions, serving all of B.C. To learn more, call 250-674-2419.

someone registers for the Canada Child Benefit, usually through their income tax return.

Most families will receive the benefit as a direct deposit from the Canada Revenue Agency, alongside the federal Canada Child Benefit program.

The BC Family Benefit may take as long as 10 days to be deposited

by the Canada Revenue Agency alongside the Canada Child Benefit. The BC Family Benefit was formerly known as the Child Opportunity Benefit.

For information about new and existing affordability supports, go online to www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/affordability/family-benefit.

• Bladder

• Cancer

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• C.O.P.D.

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Day tripping from Paris to Chartres

CHRIS MILLIKAN SPECIAL TO KTW

Attracting pilgrims since the Middle Ages and still one of the most revered monuments in France, the World Heritage site Our Lady of Chartres cathedral sparks our day trip from Paris

Almost hourly, trains travel between Montparnasse Station and old Chartres. The regional service sweeps us southwest across 80 kilometres of countryside. Along the way, our guidebooks describe the inspiring history of the Gothic masterpiece.

In 1194, a fire destroyed the ancient market town of Chartres, including its beloved place of worship. Only its towers, Royal Portal and some stained-glass windows survived. Despite overwhelming devastation, hard work and determined fundraising helped committed townsfolk rebuild their cathedral in a remarkable 30 years.

Arriving at Chartres station in about an hour, a stroll past the pretty town’s shops and patio bistros leads into a sculpture-filled plaza, complete with inviting benches. The cathedral’s two markedly different steeples soon greet us.

On the right, the sombre older spire and world’s tallest Romanesque-style bell tower contrasts dramatically with the newer, lacey and flamboyant one to its left. The hardy climb its 300 worn stone steps to achieve panoramic overviews.

Nearing the main entrance, an embellished facade bedazzles.

Astonishing lifelike figures frame Royal Portal’s three doorways. Kings, queens, priests and prophets stand atop decorative columns, detailed faces contrasting with their rigid, elongated bodies. Above the doors, sculpted panels depict Christ’s holy story. To the left, angels lift Him onto a heavenly cloud. In the centre, apostles gather around Him. On the right, Mary sits serenely on the Throne of Wisdom, infant Jesus on her lap.

Inside the hushed cathedral, 12th-century windows generate rainbow light on all sides. Donated by wealthy merchants and royalty to inspire hope, 172 stained-glass windows primarily illustrate familiar Bible stories, while some reflect daily medieval life.

Like us, many bring binoculars to further appreciate the scenarios’ fine details. Over the west entrance, the original windows radiate marvelous shades of blue. Surviving the great fire, the shimmering 700-yearold glass strikes us as unusually exquisite.

Around the choir’s ornate 100-metre-long stone screen, 40 sculpted scenes portray Mary and Jesus’ lives. The last 14 constitute stations of the cross. Representing Christ’s glorious ascension, pink marble columns flecked in gold flank a magnificent white angel rising behind the altar.

At one time, all this stonework, stained glass depictions and other artworks imparted Christ’s story to a largely illiterate population. Eventually, the storied cathedral became fondly called the Bible in Stone.

As well, artifacts and paintings fill recessed chapels throughout the

cathedral. Scores of believers once trekked to Chapel of the Martyrs just to contemplate a legendary paleyellow relic. Thought to be the tunic worn during Jesus’ birth, the Veil of the Virgin is said to offer protection. Even today, curious travellers visit this treasured holy remnant, also known as Sancta Camisa.

Amid the nave lies an inlaid labyrinth, an element for personal reflection in many 13th century cathedrals. The winding path symbolizes the way to God from Earth. Early devotees did penance here, atoning for their sins. Fervently repenting, they followed the 262metre pathway on their knees.

Typically an hour-long meditation, today’s devout worshippers walk the same maze-like course,

Mar

Apr

Apr

Apr

some barefoot as they circle slowly toward the flower-shaped centre.

In leaving through the south gate, three-tiered flying buttresses dominate the exterior. One of the first churches to use them, these striking reinforcements allowed architects to double structural heights and add bigger windows. Spacious, airy cathedral interiors with better lighting resulted.

Below a walled terrace behind the cathedral, we watch folks in Jardins de l’Eveche. Some walk the gigantic outdoor labyrinth. Others visit the Bishops’ lavish palace, now a museum farther along the terrace.

Before long, gentle music begins to fill the air. Chanting old French parables, a costumed street entertainer gradually approaches, a

floppy chicken puppet tucked firmly under his arm. As he serenades, the wacky hen mimes his delightful ditties.

On the northwest side, grotesque gargoyles perch boldly on the Gothic tower’s gutters. As well as keeping evil spirits away, their spouts divert rainwater from the wall. Nearby, a pavilion shelters a gold 24-hour, astrological clock. Indicating 16 o’clock, it’s already time for us to return to the train station. But first, we salute our wondrous immersion in architecture, art and history with double cassis gelatos.

May 20 8 days $4990 BC Fjords

Rails, Rivers & Roses (EB)

Ontario Waterways & Canals Cruise (EB)

Enchanting England (EB)

Alaska Wildlife & Glaciers (EB)

Jun 4 7 days $3215

Jun 6 7 days $2995

Jun 23 11 days $5995

Jul 13 17 days $10,490

Aug 25 17 days from $9445

Photo: Kawartha Voyageur, Ontario Waterways

More Travel Writers Tales can be read online at travelwriterstales.com.

Our Lady of Chartres, located about 80 kilometres outside of Paris, is seen from a distance. CHRIS MILLIKAN PHOTO

Megan, Olivia primed to rock house at Winter Games

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

en Brown keeps coming back because of the smiles on their faces.

“You can see it in their eyes when they’ve accomplished something,” Ken said. “To see them happy, that’s why I keep coming back.”

Special Olympics B.C. Kamloops curlers Megan Gourley and Olivia were among those smiling last week at practice at McArthur Island Curling Club, with anticipation building ahead of the big event.

Kamloops will play host to the Special Olympics BC Winter Games from Feb. 2 to Feb. 4, with about 500 athletes expected

to compete in eight sports: 5-pin bowling, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, floor hockey, snowshoeing and speed skating.

Olivia, a first-time Games participant, and two-time Games veteran Megan will represent the city in curling action.

“I love the people and I love that it gives me the chance to build my confidence,” Olivia said. “It means so much. It meant the world to me when I found out [I’d be competing at the Games].”

Ken Brown and daughter Corryn are accomplished curlers, provincial champions who have been giving back to the sport for about 10 years through coaching Special Olympians.

“It’s a very rewarding experience,” Corryn said. “Coming from a high level of curling, it really kind of puts things in per-

spective and it makes me remember why I started — the love of the game and the love of camaraderie.”

Megan is looking forward to her third experience at the multi-sport event, which will run with the help of about 800 volunteers and 150 coaches and mission staff.

Register to volunteer for the Games online at sobcgameskamloops.ca. Experience is not required.

“It’s about having fun,” Megan said. “Olivia is really good. We have lots of stuff in common. I stay fit for my sports and stay healthy.”

Corryn said Megan has shown great improvement and is excelling in the skip role, embracing strategy and putting in practice time to get better.

“I learned how to slide,” Megan said. “You have to put your leg out and make

sure you’re stable or you fall on your butt. Yeah, not good.”

Special Olympics BC provides yearround training and competitive opportunities in 18 sports to more than 5,200 athletes of all ages, offering programming in 55 communities across the province.

Ken said about 15 athletes are regulars at curling practice.

“For some of them, it’s all about winning,” Ken said. “It all depends which athletes you ask. They’re always happy to see you when you get here. It’s always nice to see them improve. The reward is just being with them out here.”

For Olivia and Megan, it’s all about having fun.

“We’re best friends,” Olivia said. “I love the people. It’s not about winning all the time. It’s about having a good attitude.”

Megan Gourley (left) and Olivia will compete in curling at the Special Olympics BC Winter Games, which will run from Feb. 2 to Feb. 4 in Kamloops.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

‘It’s pretty indescribable’ WOODLAND WINS GOLD WITH CANADA IN LAKE PLACID

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops goaltender Kendra Woodland won the starting gig and backstopped Canada to gold at the Lake Placid 2023 FISU Winter World University Games.

“Pulling on a Canadian jersey and getting a gold medal around your neck is definitely an amazing feeling,” said Woodland, the 22-year-old Westsyde secondary graduate who toils for the New Brunswick Reds in the U Sports ranks.

“I’ve never won a gold medal wearing a Canadian jersey. Yeah, it’s pretty indescribable.”

Woodland posted a 12-save shutout in a 5-0 victory over Japan

in the title tilt, which took place on Saturday in the Lake Placid Olympic Centre in

Lake Placid, New York.

Canada carried three goaltenders at the collegiate multi-sport Games, with netminders Woodland, Camryn Drever of the University of Saskatchewan and Aurelie Dubuc of the University of Ottawa splitting time in the preliminary round.

“It was all healthy competition, battling for getting starts,” Woodland said. “They were awesome teammates. It was great to have different goalies from different conferences from within U Sports to compete against to see what the caliber is like across Canada.”

Canada posted a 5-0 mark in the preliminary round, besting Slovakia 4-0, Czechia 5-1, Japan 6-0, Great Britain 14-0

and the U.S. 2-1. The loss to Canada in the round-robin finale dashed the Americans’ aspirations of reaching the playoffs.

“Going 5-0 in the round-robin, that was kind of the moment where, moving into the semis, we were pretty confident we could get the job done,” Woodland said.

The Kamloopsian got the nod to start against Slovakia on Friday in the semifinal round and turned aside 20 shots in a 6-1 win at the Olympic Center to cement her job for the gold-medal game.

“It was a sense of the Olympics,” Woodland said. “It was really, really cool to get that taste at the university level.

“It’s pretty amazing.”

Pack to host No. 1 Bears

The TRU WolfPack will be tested this weekend against the No. 1 ranked U Sports men’s volleyball team, the Alberta Golden Bears of Edmonton.

Alberta (17-1) and TRU (8-8) will square off at noon on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday at the TCC.

The WolfPack posted a pair of victories over the visiting Fraser Valley Cascades (4-14) of Abbotsford last weekend at the TCC — 3-2 on Friday

and 3-1 on Saturday.

Thundersky Walkingbear and Rylan Ibbetson recorded 11 kills apiece on Saturday, with Sam Flowerday adding 10 kills to lead the WolfPack offence.

TRU is tied for seventh in league standings. The top eight teams will qualify for the postseason.

Alberta is riding a 17-match winning streak and among favourites to win the national championship.

KENDRA WOODLAND

TRU WolfPack middle Corbin Ockerman (left) beats the Fraser Valley Cascades’ block on the weekend at the TCC. TRU will host Alberta this weekend.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Demek debut pushed

Jakub Demek is not expected to make his Kamloops Blazers’ debut until some time in midFebruary.

The Blazers acquired the 19-year-old forward Demek in a trade with the Edmonton Oil Kings on Nov. 14, with a tentative timeline of mid-tolate January for his return from a shoulder injury.

That timeline changed this past week, with input from the Vegas Golden Knights, who selected Demek in Round 4 of the 2021 NHL Draft.

The Blazers begin a six-game Central Division swing on Feb. 17 in Red Deer. Demek could make his debut on the road trip.

Demek, a 6-foot4, 203-pound forward from Kosice, Slovakia, won the WHL championship last season with the Oil Kings.

The left-shot forward tallied 20 goals and 54 points in 55 regular-season games in 2021-2022, and racked up five goals and 17 points in 19 post-season contests.

Meanwhile, in a regular-season,

game-of-the-year candidate, Logan Stankoven registered his hat-trick goal in overtime to push the Blazers to a 6-5 comeback victory over the TriCity Americans of Kennewick, Wash, on Saturday at Sandman Centre.

Tri-City led 5-3 with less than five minutes remaining in the third period, but the visitors got into penalty trouble and Kamloops capitalized with two goals on the power play.

Recent acquisition Olen Zellweger tallied at 15:44 on a two-man advan-

tage and Stankoven notched the tying goal on the power play at 16:47, the markers forcing an extra session in front of 5,129 fans on Mark Recchi Way.

Kamloops (26-9-4-2) will be in action next on Friday against the hometown Victoria Royals (13-27-4-1).

The Seattle Thunderbirds (327-1-1) are atop Western Conference standings, three points ahead of the Portland Winterhawks (318-2-1) and eight points clear of the Blazers.

The Kamloops Blazers acquired forward Jakub Demek in a trade with the Edmonton Oil Kings in November. It appears the club will have to wait until next month for his debut with Kamloops.

LEGENDS OF THE LAKE

Blazers’ goalie made two saves to spur the celebration.

WolfPack to host Vikes

Looking for their second win in a long, learning season, the TRU WolfPack will play host to the Victoria Vikes this weekend in women’s Canada West basketball action at the TCC.

Game time is 5:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with men’s tilts between the same teams to follow both nights.

The Fraser Valley Cascades (11-3) showed little mercy on the WolfPack last weekend

in Abbotsford, posting a 103-28 victory on Friday and following with an

86-23 win on Saturday.

Megan Rouault led the WolfPack with 10 points

in the defeat on Saturday.

Victoria (5-9) is jostling for playoff position, while TRU (1-13) sits second-last in the 17-team league, with one more victory than Brandon (0-14).

The WolfPack on Monday revealed their first recruits for the 20232024 season — 5-foot-4 point guard Sydney Vollrath and 6-foot-2 post Kate De La Mare, best friends from St. Albert, Alta.

The under-13 tier 2 Kamloops Blazers won gold on the weekend at the Salmon Arm Legends of the Lake tournament, edging South Okanagan 2-1 in a shootout to claim their second tourney title of the campaign. Kamloops’ first two shooters tallied in the breakaway competition and the

Danijela Kovacevic and the TRU WolfPack have taken their lumps, but are aiming to finish the season strong.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Unplug and Play in Kamloops this week

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

middle

the 15th annual Unplug and Play Week, which encourages families to unplug from their screens and spend time together doing various activities.

The week began this past Saturday with ABC Family

Literacy Day at the Henry Grube Education Centre in North Kamloops.

This year’s Unplug and Play Week theme is Make It Count, with events running through Saturday, Jan. 28.

Throughout Literacy Week, families can expect to receive a list featuring a series of activities

LEARNING THE ABC’S OF FAMILY LITERACY

KTW photographer Allen Douglas captured the ABC Family Literacy Day at the Henry Grube Centre

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Thompson-Nicola Regional Library early years co-ordinator and spokesperson for the event, Melissa Miller presents a circle story time for eager listeners. Crystal Miller (left) and long-time early childhood educator Patti Pernitsky provide a table of interesting books and resources for young readers. Five-year-old Gideon Costillo hooks a fish on his line, in a fun literacy game.

BELOW: Francis Hicks, age 5, hopscotches his way to improving his skills in numeracy and literacy with a fun game on Saturday, Jan. 21 during the ABC Family Literacy Day at the Henry Grube Education Centre in North Kamloops.

hosted by community partners sent home with schools for the week.

This year’s Unplug and Play event is sponsored by Interior Savings, with Literacy in Kamloops, School District 73, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District, City of Kamloops, the Child Care Resource Referral

Network and Kamloops YMCA-YWCA helping to organize events.

A full list of daily activities — which include downtown storywalks, cross-country skiing, a family genealogy session and a comedy magic show — can be found online at tinyurl. com/5n8bu8rf.

City of Kamloops

RO G R A M

XploreSportz Pro D Day Camp

Ages 7-12 $49

Try 2 sports throughout the day while meeting new friends and having fun!

Hal Rogers and Albert McGowan Park Fri Feb 3 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Valentine Treats Ages 10 - 15 1/$38

Learn how to spread the holiday love through Valentine treats with our Red Seal chef! Some supplies required Sa-Hali Secondary School Thurs Feb 9 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Valentines Cakes with Roses 1/$38

Get ready for Valentines! Join Shirley the cake lady in learning how to decorate a cake with roses! Some supplies required NorKam Secondary Thur Feb 9 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Advance Photography Series 4/$120

Go beyond point and shoot and going from auto to manual functions with their camera Participants should have a good understanding of adjusting camera features (depth of field, shutter speed and ISO) Will cover four key areas exposure and focus problems, black and white photography, and night photography

Valleyview Secondary School

Tues Feb 21 - March 14

6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Local History Lecture 1/$10

Join local history enthusiast Hugh Fallis at the KMA to hear about his local history passion project and research

Kamloops Museum and Archives l Sat Feb 25 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Dig It: Indigenous-created winter gear

KIM CHRISTENSON SPECIAL TO KTW

As I’m sure many a Kamloopsian did, I enjoyed several days up at Sun Peaks over the holiday break, taking advantage of the warmer weather and good cross-country ski conditions.

I also bought some new gear, partly based on friends’ recommendations, as well as some general observations about what other people on the hill were wearing.

It got me thinking about the origins of some of this gear. Dig It readers might be surprised to know much of the winter snow gear we use, and a few of the activities we take part in, are owed to Indigenous Arctic peoples’ adaptation to their environment.

A good friend has been eyeing a new pair of snow-glasses for a week or so at a local ski gear shop, coveting their fancy technical lenses and stylish frames. They are indeed lovely and, while a bit of a technological leap from the first snow goggles used by Indigenous people for hundreds of years, they fulfill an identical role. The earliest technological solution was a pair of goggles created from a thin (one-to-twoinch) strip of a natural material with two small slits cut horizontally over the eyes. These natural materials generally consisted of wood, bone, antler, leather or whale baleen, among other things.

According to researchers at Parks Canada, these snow goggles have been in use for at least 800 years and were utilized to protect the wearer from both snow blindness and the prolonged UV

rays that can be especially harmful during the long days of Arctic summer sunshine.

We also crossed paths with many an outdoor enthusiast getting in their exercise on a pair of snowshoes. Metal and plastic have replaced wood and rawhide, but modern snowshoes often still reflect the size and shape of the original design, created to spread out the user’s weight and facilitate travel across deep snow.

Snowshoes have a millennialong history and have long been used in Europe and Central Asia, with the practice brought into the Canadian Arctic by Inuit peoples. The oldest known pair of snowshoes dates to almost 6,000 years ago and were found in the Italian alps in 2003, now housed in the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Italy.

While the oldest snowshoes may have originated in Europe, most snowshoe designs seen today have come from Indigenous peoples living in the Great Lakes area in Eastern Canada. Likely the most familiar style is the Ojibwa (Cree) style, with pointed toes and long tails, but several other styles have also arisen, including Alaskan, Beavertail and Bear Paw, all adapted for terrain and snow conditions.

Some ski hill users chose to have a less “exercisey” day for themselves and instead took advantage of comfortable sleds and let the dogs do the work.

Dogsled teams are a regular sighting at the hill. Modern dog sledding is generally associated with tourism, sport or competition, such as the Iditarod, but its origins lie in the Arctic, with Indigenous use of dogs for transporting people and supplies or hunting. There is poor agreement in the literature as to when and

where this practice started, but it most likely began in northern North America and spread to Siberia, or vice versa, more than 2,000 years ago.

The first dog sled teams had fewer canines than we generally see now and one or two dogs were originally used to pull small sleds, while the musher (a word with French origins and based on an English interpretation) often

broke trail with snowshoes. As dogs were selectively bred for specific traits, the larger packs we see now were utilized for pulling larger loads and/or multiple people.

As with snowshoes, there are regional variations in style and size of sleds, also adapted to the local environment and conditions.

So, as we take part in our beloved traditional Canadian

Ojibwa and Bear Paw are among several Indigenous snowshoe styles (top). The Canadian Science and Technology Museum provided this photo of an Inuit sled – another winter staple.

winter activities, we can tip our tuques to Indigenous peoples for the invention and perfecting of much of the gear we use.

Kim Christenson is a Kamloops-based archaeologist. Interested in more? Go online to republicofarchaeology.ca.

Dig It is KTW’s regularly published column on the history beneath our feet in the region.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, make a concer ted effor t to focus your attention on something that interests you This may require that you find something new to stoke your passion

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

It ’s a week for love and you have all of the resources available to take advantage and explore your feelings, Taurus Work things out in your head before taking action

Gemini, currently you are playing a much smaller role at work than you would like It is not that you aren’t capable, but it ’s a matter of paying your dues before taking the next step

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, don’t box yourself in with a strict to-do list and schedule You need a little more wiggle room to explore your creativity and what makes you happy

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Your open and outgoing nature may lead many people to think they know all about you, Leo Instead, you can be quite a mysterious person Show others only what you want

Believing

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Being available to other people is admirable, Libra Make sure this is not at the expense of your own wellbeing You may need to dial back and prioritize your own needs

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Living in your comfor t zone may lead to missed oppor tunities, Scorpio You may need to let your risk-taking side show this week Enjoy the ride

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan20

You may believe you can think your way out of a situation this week, Capricorn But sometimes logic just doesn’t cut it You may have to use your hear t to get to the root

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Take a second look at your talents and your abilities, Aquarius You may have been selling yourself shor t for some time But you can accomplish anything with some effor t

ZITS by Jerry Scott & Jim Borgman

SHOE by Gary Brookins & Susie Macnelly

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE by Chris Browne

PARDON MY PLANET by Vic Lee

ARCTIC CIRCLE by Alex Hallatt

BABY BLUES by Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott

Existential emotion

Goofus

Dance squat

Where 95-Down s Wild Ride ends at Disneyland

Key ingredient in Key lime pie

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame city Abbr

Floated down a river say 91. ‘Hmm, gotcha’’

Unteachable sor t, in a saying

Tessellations

The Wind in the Willows squire

‘Nice tr y, but don’t think so

Islands that form atop under water volcanoes

Mak ing all the stops 102 Por tion of a log 104 Quick to think or act 106 [Grrr!] 108 ‘Eh, what can you do?!’ 109 Black cat, classically 111 For fear that 112 Michael of ‘‘Superbad’’ 113 Wraparound garment 114 Eye affliction 117 Belt worn with a yuk ata 118 Company that owns Wite -Out

By Wyna Liu

FUN BY THE NUMBERS

puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes To solve a sudoku the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

LINDA

RYLAN WILLOUGHBY

MARCIA STEWART

JACK BELL

PLEASETAKENOTICE thatonFebruary7,2023theDistrictofLoganLakeCouncilwill consideradoptingBylawNo.899,2023abylawtoauthorizetheclosureofroadandremoval ofdedicationasahighwayshownasbeingpartoflanededicatedonPlan32012androad dedicatedonPlanEPP126717inDL2217KDYD,asshownoutlinedinblackboldonthe followingplan:

Thebylaw,alongwiththe Surveyplan,isavailablefor viewingattheDistrictofLogan LakeMunicipalOfficeat#1 OpalDrive,LoganLake,BC.

Allpersonswhowishtoregister Anopinionontheproposed Closuremaydosoby:



AppearingbeforeCouncil onFebruary7,2023at 6:30p.m.atMunicipalHall at#1OpalDrive;or

Writtensubmission:



o Emailedto cao@loganlake.ca

o Handdeliveredormailedto#1OpalDrive,POBox190,LoganLake,BCV0K1W0.

PleasenotethatwrittensubmissionsmustbereceivedbytheChiefAdministrativeOfficerno laterthanFebruary2,2023at4:00p.m.Writtensubmissions,includingyournameand address,areincludedintheCouncilAgenda,andwillbepostedontheDistrict’swebsiteas partofthepermanentpublicrecord.PleasenotethattheDistrictconsiderstheauthor’s addressrelevanttoCouncil’sconsiderationofthismatterandwilldisclosethispersonal informationinaccordancewithSections26and33.1ofthe FreedomofInformationand ProtectionofPrivacyAct(BC).

TAKENOTICE thatStorage VaultCanadadoingbusiness asSentinelStorage,intends tosellthefollowingvehicle: 1982FORDMOTORHOME Vin:1FDKE30L9BHA78038 Owner:MitchellSpink Amountofdebt:$338.35

Thesalewillbeheld onorafter Thursday,March2,2023at 1298KootenayWay, Kamloops,B.C.

TAKENOTICE thatStorage VaultCanadadoingbusiness asSentinelStorage,intends tosellthefollowingvehicle:

1971COMPACT TRAVELTRAILER Vin:2GBEG25K6K4109001

Owner:RichardWindjack Amountofdebt:$1571.90

Thesalewillbeheldonor afterFebruary10,2023at 1298KootenayWay, Kamloops,B.C.

Residential Tenancy Act Legal Noticetoany claims. RonaldWayne LarsonSjodin (Deceased October 9, 2022). Yourstorage unit SE21located at 1271D SalishRoad, Kamloops, BC. All household and garage items and tools, 12 foot aluminumBoat and EZLoadertrailer, 03Suzuki Vitaraand 04Pontiac Grand AM. The items will be disposedof after 30 daysof the notice being postedunless the personbeing notifiedtakes the items ora right to themor makes a dispute resolution application withthe residential tenancy branchormakes an application insupreme court toestablish their rights tothe items. These items will be disposedonorafter February 28, 2023.

ContactBrent Grywacheski,766 JasperAvenue, Kamloops,BCV2B 2S4.250-320-3892.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

COMPUTER TECHNICIAN I / II

School District No 58 is accepting applications for Computer Technician I / II in Merritt

This is a unionized position that offers a 37 5 hour work week plus a comprehensive benefit package including Municipal Pension, health, vacation, and sick benefits An eligibility list will be kept for up to one (1) year Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at www.sd58.bc.ca, click on Jobs, Suppor t Positions, and Current Job Oppor tunities (Job Code 3353563) complete with cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references Please include all relevant cer tifications during the application process

For fur ther information please contact Jody McGifford – Executive Assistant at 250 315 1108 Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted

P A P E R R O U T E S A V A I L A B L E

DOWNTOWN

Rte 306 – 261 6th Ave 614-911 Seymour St, 600-696 St Paul St, 753-761 Victor a St -26 p Rte 308 – 355 9th Ave 703977 St Paul St –35 p Rte 310 – 651-695 2nd Ave, 660-690 3rd Ave 110-292 Co umb a St(Even Side) 106-321 N cola St -43 p Rte 311 – 423-676 1st Ave 400-533 2nd Ave 107-237 Batt e St, 135-173 St Paul St -27 p Rte 313 – 430-566 4th Ave 520-577 5th Ave 435-559 Battle St 506 Columb a St 406-576 Nico a St, 418-478 St Pau St -34 p Rte 317 – 535-649 7th Ave 702-794 Co umbia St(Even Side) 702-799 N cola St -40 p Rte 318 – 463 6th Ave 446490 7th Ave 409-585 8th Ave 604-794 Battle St -17 p

Rte 319 – 545 6th Ave, 604-690 Co umbia St(Even Side), 604-692 N cola St -12 p

Rte 322 – 694 11th Ave 575-694 13th Ave 1003-1091 Batt e St 1004-1286 Co umb a St(Even S de 1004-1314 Nicola St -56 p

Rte 323 – 755-783 6th Ave 763-884 7th Ave 744-764 8th Ave 603-783 Columbia St(Odd Side) 605-793 Dom nion St -52 p

Rte 324 – 606-795 P ne St -33 p

Rte 325 – 764-825 9th Ave 805-979

Columb a St(Odd Side) 804-987

Domin on St 805-986 Pine St -64 p

Rte 326 – 850 11th Ave 1003-1083

Columb a St(Odd Side) 10031195 Domin on St -33 p

Kamloops This Week is looking for energetic individuals to join our team of Contract Drivers

This is a part-time, 1 night per week contract delivering newspapers to carriers, businesses and apartments. Applicants must have a suitable vehicle (van or covered pickup) with all necessary insurance and a valid BC driver’s licence Pay is based on a combination of hours worked, papers delivered and kilometres driven but each route usually averages out to between $79 per delivery for about 3.5 hours worth of work per regular delivery, with extra pay during busy holiday periods!

CAUTION

Rte 327 – 1103-1459 Columbia St(Odd Side) 1203-1296 Domin on St -38 p

Rte 328 – 935 13th Ave Clover eaf Cres Domin on Cres Park Cres P ne Cres -62 p Rte 329 – 880-1101 6th Ave 925-1045 7th Ave 878-1020 8th Ave 605-795 P easant St -39 p

Rte 331 – 984-987 9th Ave 1125 10th Ave 901-981 Douglas St 902-999 Munro St -33 p

Rte 335 – 1175-1460 6th Ave 1165-1185 7th Ave Cowan St 550-792 Munro St -56 p

Rte 339 – 1265-1401 9th Ave 916-1095 Fraser St -26 p

Rte 340 – McMurdo Dr -23 p

Rte 370 – Nico a Wagon Rd 35-377 W Seymour St -36 p

Rte 371 – Connaught Rd 451-475 Lee Rd W St Paul St -73 p

Rte 380 – Arbutus St Chaparra P Powers Rd Sequoia P -69 p

Rte 381 – 20-128 Centre Ave Hem ock St 605-800 Lombard St -42 p

Rte 382 – 114-150 Fernie Pl, Fernie Rd, 860-895 Lombard St -23 p

Rte 389 – Bluff P 390 Centre Ave 242-416 W Co umbia St Duffer n Terr Garden Terr Grandview Terr -51 p

LOWER SAHALI/SAHALI

Rte 400 – 383 W Co umbia St -21 p

Rte 401 – 250-395,405-425 Pemberton Terr –81 p

Rte 403 – 405-482 Greenstone Dr Tod Cres -28 p

Rte 404 – Chapperon Dr 108-395 Greenstone Dr Pyram d Crt -54 p

Rte 405 – Anv l Cres 98-279

Bestwick Dr, Bestwick Crt E Bestwick

Crt W Morrisey Pl -51 p

Rte 410 – 56-203 Arrowstone Dr S lverthrone Cres -47 p

Rte 449 – Azure Pl –43 p

Rte 451 – Odin Crt Whiteshield

Cres Whiteshield Pl -39 p

Rte 452 – 1430-1469 Spr nghi l Dr -64 p

Rte 453 – 1575-1580 Spr nghi l Dr -73 p

Rte 454 – Crosby Rd Humphrey Rd, Springfield Pl 1600-1799 Springh l Dr -34 p

Rte 459 – Monarch Crt & Pl –38 p

Rte 463 –1787-1898 McKinley Crt 545-659 Monarch Dr -44 p

Rte 467 – 1605+1625 Summit Dr –28 p

Rte 471 – 100-293 Monmouth Dr -37 p

Rte 474 – Coppertree Crt Trophy Crt -21 p

Rte 475 – Castle Towers Dr, Sedgewick Crt & Dr -47 p

Rte 476 – Tanta us Crt Tinniswood Crt 2018-2095 Tremerton Dr -50 p

Rte 485 – 690 Robson Dr 2020+2084 Robson P -45 p

Rte 487 – 201-475+485-495 Hol yburn Dr Panorama Crt -75 p

MT DU FFERIN/ PINEVIEW VALLEY

Rte 561 – Ash Wynd Fir P 1700-1798 Lodgepo e Dr –58 p

Rte 580 – 1300-1466 Pacific Way

Pra r e Rose Dr, Rockcress Dr -83 p

Rte 581 – Cannel Dr Cascade St 1500-1539 Hi lside Dr Me lors Pl -44 p

Rte 582 – 1540-1670 Hil side Dr 15001625 Mt Duffer n Ave Windward Pl -38 p

Rte 584 – 1752-1855 Hil side Dr -26 p

Rte 586 – Mt Dufferin Cres Park Way, Plateau Pl -26 p

Rte 587 – Sunshine Crt & P -51 p

Rte 588 – Davies P , 1680-1751 Hi ls de Dr Hillside Pl, Monterey Pl Scott Pl -46 p

Rte 589 – 1200-1385 Copperhead Dr -48 p

Rte 590 – 1397 Copperhead Dr Saskatoon Pl -36 p

ABERDEEN

Rte 501 – 655-899 Fleming Dr F eming Pl -49 p

Rte 503 – F em ng Circ Hampshire Dr & Pl Hector Dr -51 p

Rte 504 – 2146-2294 Sifton Ave Sifton Lane -48 p

Rte 505 – 2005-2141 Sifton Ave -51 p Rte 508 – 700-810 Hugh Al an Dr -49 p Rte 509 – 459-551 Laur er Dr, Shaughnessy Hil -46 p Rte 510 – 372-586 Aberdeen Dr 402-455 Laurier Dr -36 p

Rte 511 – Drummond Crt -50 p

Rte 512 – Ainsl e P , Balfour Crt Braemar Dr, MacIntyre Pl -69 p

Rte 513 – Braemar Way 556-696 Laurier Dr 2214-2296 Van Horne Dr -36 p Rte 516 – Garymede Crt 2204-2263

Garymede Dr Gilmour Pl -38 p

Rte 517 – 2267-2299 Garymede Dr Greenock Crt & Pl 32 p

Rte 518 – 2100-2198 Garymede Dr, Glasgow Pl Greystone Cres –58 p

Rte 519 – Regent Cres & P -52 p

Rte 522 – 604-747 Dunrob n Dr Dunrob n P -65 p

Rte 526 – 2015-2069 Van Horne Dr -69 p

Rte 527 – Hunter P Hunt e gh Cres -25 p

Rte 528 – 1115-1180 Howe Rd 1115-1185 Hugh A len Dr -47 p

Rte 530 – Bental Dr Edinburgh Blvd & Crt Ta bot Pl, 2688-2689 Wi lowbrae Dr -61 p

Rte 532 – Harrison Pl & Way 1181-1290 Howe Rd -38 p

Rte 537 – 1221 Hugh A lan Dr -26 p

Rte 538 – Talbot Dr Wi lowbrae Crt & Pl 2592-2672 W l owbrae Dr -51 p

Rte 542 – Coal Hi l Pl Crosshill

Dr Dunbar Dr -57 p

Rte 544 – 2070-2130 Van Horne

Dr Holyrood Circ & P -23 p

VALLEYVIEW

Rte 602 – App e Lane Knol wood Cres

Parkhil Dr 1783 Va leyview Dr -54 p

Rte 603 – Comazzetto Rd Strom Rd 1625-1764 Valleyview Dr -42 p

Rte 606 – Orchard Dr Russet Wynd 1815-1899 Valleyview Dr -39 p

Rte 607 – Cardina Dr 19092003 Val eyv ew Dr -33 p Rte 608 – Cur ew P & Rd 19251980 Glenwood Dr -70 p

Rte 614 – 2504-2667 Sunset Dr 2459-2669 E Trans Canada Hwy -49 p

Rte 615 – River Rd Sunset Crt 2415-2487 Sunset Dr –43 p

Rte 617 – 2401-2515 Va leyview Dr Valleyview Pl -51 p

Rte 618 – Big Nicke P Chapman Pl Marsh Rd Paul Rd Peter Rd 2440-2605 Thompson Dr -58 p

Rte 620 – MacAdam Rd McKay P Pyper Way, 2516-2580 Va leyview Dr -63 p

Rte 621 – Duck Rd Ske ly Rd 96 Tanager Dr, 2606-2876 Thompson Dr -46 p

JUNIPER

Rte 650 – 1520-1620 Ab tibi Ave Omineca Dr –62 p

Rte 651 – 1470 Abitibi Ave 1400-1470

Finlay Ave 2210-2295 Nechako Dr -55 p

Rte 655 – 1685 F nlay Ave 2202-2385 Skeena Dr 2416-2458

Skeena Dr (Even S de -34 p

Rte 664 – Kicking Horse Dr & Way -30 p

Rte 669 – Emera d Dr -55 p

Rte 670 – Galore Cres Crt & P – 94 p

Rte 671 – 1830-1997 Qu Appe le Blvd Myra P -68 p

BARNHARTVALE

Rte 701 – Freda Ave Klahan e Dr Morris

Pl She ly Dr 901-935 Todd Rd -87 p

Rte 706 – 1078-1298 Lamar Dr Mo-Lin Pl -29 p Rte 718 – Be a r Dr -22 p Rte 721 – 5530-5697 Clearv ew Dr, Coo ridge P Wi dwood Dr -38 p

DALLAS

Rte 750 – 5101-5299 Dal as Dr(Odd S de), Mary P , Nina P , Rache Pl -31 p

Rte 751 – 5310 Barnhartvale Rd, Bogetti Pl, 5300-5599 Dal as Dr, 5485-5497

ETC Hwy Vik ng Dr Wade Pl -64 p Rte 752 – Coster Pl 5600-5998

Da las Dr Harper P & Rd -69 p

Rte 755 – 6159-6596 Dal as Dr McAuley Pl Me rose P Yarrow Pl -71 p Rte 759 – Beverly P , 6724-7250

Furrer Rd McIver Pl Pat Rd –42 p

Rte 760 – Beaver Cres Chukar Dr -62 p

NORTH SHORE/BATCHELOR

Rte 102 – 1071 10th St 1084-1086 12th St, 813-1166 Lethbridge Ave –42 p Rte 103 – 1167-1201 8th St 1179-1229 10th St, 1182-1185 11th St, 1188-1294 12th St 823-1166 Sudbury Ave –69 p

Rte 107 – 1177 8th St 1109-1139 10th St 1110-1140 11th St 1138 12th St 809-1175 Pembroke Ave -84 p

Rte 108 – 1010 11th St 831-1017 12th St 821-1161 Selkirk Ave -68 p

Rte 137 – 106-229 231-330

C apperton Rd 203-266 268-285

Le gh Rd 172-180 Wi son St -23 p

Rte 140 – 217 Beach Ave Fairview Ave Larch Ave 237-247 Schubert Dr -43 p

Rte 170 – Alview Cres 16801770 Westsyde Rd -50 p

Rte 173 – 1655 Batche or Dr Le ghton Pl 1708-1729 North River Dr Pennask Terr -36 p

Rte 175 – Norfolk Crt Norview P 821-991 Norv ew Rd -36 p

Rte 180 – 807-1104 Quai Dr

Qua ls Roost Crt & Dr -79 p Rte 185 – Bearcroft Crt 10031099 Norview Rd – 44 p

WESTSYDE/ WESTMOUNT

Rte 201 – Montrose Cres Wedgewood Cres Westlynn Dr Westmount Dr -70 p

Rte 206 – Dickenson Rd Wa kem Rd 1835-1995 Westsyde Rd(Odd S de) Yates Rd -51 p

Rte 207 – 820-895 Anderson Terr 1920-1990 Westsyde Rd (Even Side) -24 p

Rte 221 – 3013-3072 Bank Rd Bermer Pl 710-790 B ssette Rd 3007-3045 Westsyde Rd (Odd Side) -60 p

Rte 225 – 3375-3495 Bank Rd Bray Pl 3324-3498 Over ander Dr Steinke P -62 p

Rte 234 – Orcrest Dr Sage Dr -35 p

Rte 235 – 3440-3808 Westsyde Rd -71 p

Rte 249 – 3085-3132 Bank Rd 600-655 Bissette Rd Cooper Pl Hayward P , Norbury Rd – 57 p

Rte 253 – Irving P 2401-2477 Parkview Dr Rhonmore Cres 2380+2416 Westsyde Rd -45 p

Rte 254 – E ston Dr 2410 Oak Hi ls B vd -23 p Rte 255 – 2478-2681 Parkview Dr – 28 p

BROCKLEHURST

Rte 1 – Argy e Ave Ayr Pl 10631199 Crest ine St 1008-1080 Moray St Perth P -93 p

Rte 2 – 2605-2795 Joyce Ave -52 p

Rte 4 – 727-795 Crest ine St 2412-2680 Tranquil e Rd -40 p

Rte 5 – Young Pl -44 p Rte 6 – 2450-2599 Br arwood Ave 2592 Crest ine St 2431-2585 Edgemount Ave Pau sen Pl 2406-2598 Rosewood Ave 1101-1199 Schreiner St –79 p Rte 19 – Down e Pl & St Moody Ave & P 2307-2391 Tranqui le Rd -50 p

Rte 20 – Barbara Ave Pala Mesa Pl Strauss St Townsend Pl 21052288 Tranqui le Rd -49 p Rte 24 – Da e P , L sa Pl 806-999 Windbreak St –50 p Rte 27 – Bentley Pl Kamwood Pl 1866-1944 Parkcrest Ave -59 p

Rte 30 – 1810-1897 F eetwood Ave 995-1085 South l St -30 p Rte 31 – Desmond Pl 10081028 Desmond St Inglewood Dr Newton St Oxford St -54 p Rte 33 – 2115-2280 F eetwood Ave Ponderosa Ave 1002-1090

Windbreak St -71 p

Rte 38 – 1725-1797 Greenfie d Ave Newton Crt, 907-990 Stardust St -35 p Rte 41 – Alex s Ave 520-796 S ngh St, S ater Ave -59 p Rte 42 – 1718-1755 Brunner Ave Delnor Cres 608-790 Ho t St -46 p

Rte 49 – Centennia Dr 1005-1080 Holt St 1661-1699 Parkcrest Ave –31 p

Rte 61 – Popp St, Stratford Pl 1371-1413 Tranquil e Rd Waterloo Pl Woodstock Pl -38 p Rte 63 – 896-1061 13th St 1315-1337 Moncton Ave, 1306-1337 Se kirk Ave, 1316-1380 Sherbrooke Ave, 1300-1346 Tranquil e Rd -58 p Rte 64 – Valhalla Dr -93 p RAYLEIGH

Rte 830 – Chetwynd Dr Stevens Dr -55 p Rte 832 – Bolean Dr & Pl, Chi co Ave, Kathleen P -57 p Rte 833 – Cameron Rd Davie Rd -44 p Rte 835 – Mattoch-McKeague Rd Sabiston Crt & Rd –28 p Rte 836 – 136-199 Cahi ty Cres Hyas Pl 4551-4648 Spurraway Rd -35 p Rte 838 – 4556-4797 Cammeray Dr, Strawberry Lane -62 p

LINDA

RYLAN

MARCIA STEWART Print/Digital Sales

JACK BELL

In Loving Memory of Edward Davidson

September 10, 1950 –January 25, 2021

Georgia Marion Hambley

Georgia passed away peacefully on January 10, 2023 at the age of 84 and is now with her Lord and Saviour

Georgia is survived by her husband of 65 years Chuck, daughter Joyce (Don), son Mike (Donna), and daughter Chris. Also left to miss her are her grandchildren Darrien (Trent), Jesse (Natalie), Ethan, Karissa (Dave), Jaden, Nick (Megan), and Nathan. Also one great grandson Cameron and two more on the way this year Georgia is also survived by sisters Bernice (Len), Joyce (Gordy), brothers Dan (Noreen), Ray (Cheryl), sister-in-law Jean, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Katica Covaceuszach

The friends of Katica Covaceuszach wish to announce her passing on October 16, 2022, in Kamloops, BC

Katica was born in Sunja, Yugoslavia on December 6, 1934. Through out her life she made many friends, travelled, had beautiful flower gardens in the homes that she would reside in and had a strong faith in God.

A graveside service will take place Thursday, January 26, 2023, at 11:00 am at the Hillside Cemetery with Father Udoka Christopher Nwosu officiating.

Condolences may be expressed to the family from cypressfuneral.ca

I’m so lucky to have had you in my life...

If you ’ re afraid of the dark...add one more star to the night. If your world has come undone fasten it securely to the horizon. If you ’ re at the end of your rope...untie the knot in your heart. If the sky fills with clouds... let the rain do your crying for a while If you must cry plant your tears as seeds. If you become lost make everywhere you are look like home If you ’ re afraid of the dark, add one more star to the night

You are my Star Carolyn

In Loving Memory of

Melvin Aubrey Stanley

May 3, 1934 – January 20, 2022

Georgia had many close friends that she cherished deeply Georgia’s passions were her faith, playing her violin, card games, and spending time with her grandchildren.

We would like to express our thanks for the wonderful support and care from Dr Stefanyk and all the staff at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Free Methodist Church, 975 Windbreak St. Kamloops on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 2:00 PM.

If desired, donations to the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice would be greatly appreciated.

Condolences may be sent to DrakeCremation.com

THERE’S MORE ONLINE

Doris Lagace

January 21, 2023

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Doris Lagace after a battle with dementia. Doris was 94 years old.

Doris in earlier years was the neighbourhood house for all the kids nearby, and was loved by all who knew her. She will be missed deeply

For more information and to leave condolences or stories of your time with her please visit: www.firstmemorialkamloops.com

First Memorial Funeral Services Kamloops, 250-554-2429

By Helen Steiner Rice

We hold beautiful warm cherished memories.

Mel was an amazing husband, father, son, brother and friend

An emptiness fills our hear ts and lives since we lost him.

Those that we love don’t go away, they walk beside us ever y day Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and always dear.

Love wife K ay and all his family

people these days want something simpler and less expensive, so they ‘do it themselves’. Pick up my free copy of “Drake’s Guide to the L a st Goodbye” if you want to organi ze an “EV EN T” yourself.

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near

KamloopsThisWeek.com

Roderick Willis Greer 1959 - 2022

With great sadness the family of Rod Greer is announcing the passing of our beloved brother on December 23 2022.

Rod was predeceased by his loving parents Gordon and Marlene Greer who owned and operated a Boarding and Kennel Business from their acreage in Knutsford, BC just outside of Kamloops; and his younger brother Mike Greer who passed away on a road blasting accident while constructing the new highway to Whistler for the 2010 Olympics. Rod is survived by his sister JoAnne Johnston of Kamloops and his brother Dan Greer of Vancouver

Rod was a skilled worker in the automotive industry where he spent more than four decades in his profession. However due to an accident several years ago related to his field of work, Rod had discontinued working in his trade.

Rod was known by his friends as an easy-going, friendly and caring person who was enjoyable to be around. Rod loved camping and fishing with his family and friends. He enjoyed spending time with friends and would host Monday night football dinners for he and his friends in his earlier years. Rod loved his pets with all his heart and we hope he is reconnected with his dog best friend Digger who passed several years ago.

Rod will be missed by his many cousins, nieces and nephew's, aunt and uncle, and many other family members at the annual Family Reunion this summer

May our beloved brother, son, and friend forever Rest In Peace.

A Celebration Of Life will be held at 2:00 PM February 18th, 2023 at the North Shore Community Centre - 730 Cottonwood Ave. Kamloops BC.

Kay Veronica Oakden

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our loving Mom on January 12, 2023. Kay was predeceased by our dad, Gary, in 2021.

Left to mourn are her daughters: Kim (Glayne) Sundby, Kelly (Paul) Vos, Tracy Oakden, Pam (Bonnie) Oakden. Her grandchildren: Josh (Katie) Sarah (Brandon), Paullus (Nequila), Megan (Mike), Graham (Ginny), Randi(Matt), Hannah, and Mack. Great grandchildren: Rustan, Sophie, Gibson, Violet, Magnus, River, Owen, Waylon, Dutton, William, and Anna. Sister-in-law Anita (Allan) Phillpots, Brother, Matt Frank, Sister, Eva Reimer

Kay was born in Prud’homme, Saskatchewan on July 7 1935. She later moved to New Westminster, where she eventually met Gary, where they were married in 1957 .They moved to Kamloops in 1967, raising the girls on Fleetwood Street. After retiring in 1990, they spent their time at the Bonaparte Lake, golfing and travelling to various countries including U.S.A. Mexico, Cuba, Hawaii and Australia.

After Dad’s passing she moved to RiverBend where she enjoyed bowling with her friends. Mom also enjoyed spending time with her family: especially her grandkids. She enjoyed cross-stitching and painting; a little known fact Mom was a commissioned artist.

Her passing came too soon; our sadness is lessened by the fact she is with Dad now sipping a margarita and watching a sunset. We are all so proud of Mom for donating her body to the UBC Body donation research program.

Edward Joseph Hazelwood

January 23, 1933 - December 20, 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Hazelwood, on December 20, 2022. Eddie is survived by his loving wife Marie of 66 years, brother Harry, sister Adah Johnston, his sons Ivan (Connie), Alan (Janie), Barry (Lucille) and his daughter Becky Arnouse, grandchildren Curtis, Trent, Justin (Arina) Hazelwood, Shyla (Cody) Courteen-Nurse, Branden Arnouse, Kelsey (Derek) Brown, Jordann (Drew) De Frias, Kyle, Matthew (Kylie), great-grandchildren Liam and Keira Hazelwood, Ella Marie and Lark Brown, Harper Courteen-Nurse, and Olivia Hazelwood. Also predeceased by his parents, Ella and Joseph Hazelwood and son Wayne Hazelwood

Eddie was born in Mankota, Saskatchewan. Dad and Grandpa Hazelwood moved to B.C. when he was 8 years old to find a homestead. They settled in the Pritchard / Pemberton area where they started ranching. Dad attended Pemberton Range school to grade 8 until he decided that going to work was more to his liking. After a small disagreement with the schoolteacher, he was off to go and work in the logging industry running equipment, hauling lumber and driving logging truck. As the ranch grew it required him to be there full-time where he spent the next 50 years. Dad loved to sit and talk equipment operations with his kids and grandchildren and hear where they were in their careers. Always inviting people in for tea and something to eat even if that mom had to be the one to make it. Dad was always helping neighbours knowing he was not getting his own work done.

Our family wants to thank the staff at RIH Cancer Clinic, Renal Unit and 5 South for all the care they provided for dad.

There will be a celebration of life to be held at a later date.

John Steven Pleva

August 18, 1939 - January 16, 2023

We are sad to announce that John passed away peacefully on January 16, 2023 in Victoria, BC.

John is survived by his sons Steven and Ken, their partners Jill and Coreen, his grandchildren Alex, Nicholas, Thomas, Alex, Emily, and Jessica, and his sisters Elizabeth and Susan. He will be missed by many other relatives and friends.

John was born at home in Osoyoos on August 18, 1939. John was a life-long learner, he graduated from South Okanagan High School in 1957, received his Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia in 1967, and completed many business and finance courses at the University College of the Cariboo in the 1990s. John was a teacher and principal in many communities throughout the Interior of BC, and also taught log home building throughout North America. John was passionate about the outdoors and loved exploring the backroads of BC, camping, canoeing, and hiking. One of his fondest memories was a RV trip in 2018 to Tuktoyaktuk, NWT with his family

We would like to thank the staff at the Overlander Extended Care in Kamloops, and The Summit in Victoria for their care and compassion for John.

Condolences may be offered to the family at: www.mccallgardens.com

A private celebration of Mom’s life will be held at a later date.

David George Stockford

On Wednesday morning, December 7, 2022 David George Stockford passed away from Parkinsons. He was predeceased by wife, Betty in May, 2019, parents Charles and Nellie Stockford, brother Walter Stockford, sister-in-law Brenda Stockford

He was born in Kamloops at Royal Inland Hospital on December 19,1944 to parents Charles and Nellie Stockford joining siblings Walter and Edna younger brother Doug would join the family later

Dave attended Lloyd George Elementary, Allan Mathews Elementary and graduated from Kamloops Senior Secondary

He played football, participated in the school band and joined the Rube band after school.

He worked at Finning for 30 years in the Used Parts department and was known by fellow employees as "Blue' as someone dipped the ear piece of the telephone receiver in a blue ink pad then called Dad, when he answered the phone there was a blue ring around his ear In his younger years he would join the guys and participate in the Overlander Raft Race paddling down the North Thompson River from Clearwater to Kamloops. He was the greatest cheerleader for Glenn and Heather's softball games then at Glenn's soccer games. He was a Blazer Fan and had his own seat for many years.

He will be missed by Wendy (Rob), Heather (Marc), Glenn (Tammy), grandchildren David (Lisa), Trevor (Coralie), Marissa, Sierra (Brandon), Kendra (Brendan), Mason (Meghan), Jessica (Luke), Dylan (Kristy), Jaimie (Shawn), great-grandchildren Lillian, Miken, Jade, Ember, Peyton, Harper, Rilee, Cayden, Callie, Ryleigh and Hayley Survived by sister Edna Gwynn (brother-in-law Les Gwynn (predeceased) nephew Tim Andrykew (predeceased), brother Doug (Ellie), nephews, nieces and great nephews and nieces

No funeral by request In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Society donate@parkinson.ca)

Pritam Singh Dhillon

January 5, 1925 - January 19, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we announce that Pritam Singh Dhillon, 98, has peacefully passed away at home on January 19, 2023, with his family by his side till his final moments.

Pritam was born on January 5, 1925, in Khot Fatuhi, Punjab, India, the son of Bakhshish Singh Dhillon and Banti Kaur Dhillon. He married Karam Kaur Dhillon in 1966 in Victoria, B.C.

Pritam grew up in India with an older brother and a younger sister He worked hard alongside his family to keep the family farm running, until his cousin's brother sponsored him to move to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, in 1961, with his friend. Pritam stayed in Victoria for six months, then moved to Kamloops, where his cousin's sister resided, and worked at numerous jobs until he got his final job at Weyerhaeuser Sawmill.

Pritam is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Karam Kaur Dhillon, his son Jatinder Singh Dhillon, his daughter-in-law Manjit Kaur Dhillon, and two beautiful grandchildren, Maninder and Jasminder Singh Dhillon.

He is well respected and loved by the Sikh community in Kamloops. In his free time, Pritam spent countless numbers of hours with his wife gardening and spending time with family, and he will always be remembered.

Rest in peace, Pritam. We love you and will miss you dearly

A Service will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2023, at 1:00pm at the Kamloops Funeral Home, 285 Fortune Dr

Condolences may be sent to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com 250-554-2577

Deanna Wagner

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deanna Wagner on January 18, 2023 in Kamloops, BC.

Left to cherish many fond memories of Dee are her husband of nearly 60 years Mike, and her children Rob (Yvette), and Kim (Jason). Nana will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Amanda, Hayden, Antonio, Taylor, Jaden, Danika, Skylar, Dominic and Sofia for her positive spirit and accepting outlook on life.

Dee was born February 20, 1939 in Lumby, BC, the youngest of seven children to Avila and Emilianna Leblanc. Mom had many happy stories to share about her childhood in Lumby

Mom arrived in Kamloops in 1957 for business college where she met Val and Rose who would remain life long friends. It was also in Kamloops where she would meet her husband Mike. They would be happily married in August of 1965. Mom left a career with the Kamloops School District to become a stay at home mom and fulfill her dreams of raising a family Mom’s love and compassion always made home a wonderful place to be. The sound of mom singing and dancing will forever be etched in our hearts. Mom always had a song for everything.

Mom and Dad enjoyed some wonderful years at Paul Lake in retirement. It was at the lake that mom was able to nurture her love for the outdoors and everything nature had to offer

Mom spent many years in the CWL at OLPH and had a very strong faith. She loved volunteering with the church and spending time with her many friends there.

Mom had a heart bigger than most and always put others before herself. Her caring and selfless nature will be missed immensely

No service as per mom’s request. A family gathering will be held a later date.

Iris Blanche Clark

November 8, 1926 - January 9, 2023

Mom was born in Curtis, Manitoba, the youngest of ten children of George and Edith Nelson and grew up in Curtis and Portage La Prairie. Mom came to BC on holiday in 1946, met the love of her life, Bud, and stayed. Mom and Dad married in 1948 and lived in Kamloops until Dad retired. They then moved to Sorrento where they lived for many years before moving to Salmon Arm.

As long as she was able, Mom had a huge vegetable garden with an equal number of flower beds, Irises were her favourite and a lot of space was devoted just to them. Mom was a fabulous cook, and it was not unusual for her to plan and bake for months prior to a big “do” for family and friends.

Predeceased by her daughter, Zelda and grandsons Matthew and Lucas, she is survived by her husband of seventy-four years, Bud, daughters Karen (Cliff) Hauer, Aila (Lynne Turner) Clark, Gloria (Dave) Price. Also survived by grandsons Chris (Deidre), Jason (Angela), and Ryan (Allison) Price and great-grandchildren, James, Trevor, Megan, Annabelle, Jackson, Jocelyn, and Helena.

Thank you to Dr. Kevin Goldberg for all your kind care for Mom in her final years and thank you to Dr Darren Lorenz and the Fourth floor/ICU staff for your compassionate care of Mom in her final days. Also, a huge heart-felt thank you to Grace, Paula, and ALL the staff, past and present, at Andover Terrace for making it such a warm welcoming home for Mom and Dad. Thank you to Bowers Funeral Service for their kind and respectful care of Mom.

Service details to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the children’s charity/program of your choice or CNIB.

To leave an online message of condolence, visit www.bowersfuneralservice.com

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

Rick Howie

December 19, 1946 - January 20, 2023

With heavy hearts we said goodbye to Rick Howie after a seventeen year journey with rectal cancer He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; daughter, Christina; son-in-law, Michael Head; precious grandson, Hudson; sister, Joanne Holmes; as well as extended family and friends. For those that knew Rick, he was an individual who was passionate about the outdoors and educating others about the wonders and beauty of the natural world.

After graduating from UBC in 1970 he began his career working for Parks Canada in Prince Edward Island National Park as the Chief Park Naturalist. His work with Parks Canada took him to Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia, regional office in Cornwall, Ontario, and Yoho National Park. Later he moved to Kamloops to begin the next phase of his career as the Regional Naturalist for BC Parks. He ended his career working for the Ministry of Environment. However, Rick never did retire. After leaving the Ministry of Environment, he worked as an environmental consultant until his death.

Perhaps Rick was best known for his keen interest in bird watching. Shortly after moving to Kamloops, he discovered the rare flammulated owl to be residing in the Kamloops area, and he encouraged the university to have students do further research on the owl. He organized the annual Kamloops Christmas Bird Count for over 40 years; he published the first Kamloops bird checklist; and he started the first BC interior swan and eagle count. He provided expert information regarding birds and wildlife for the media who regularly consulted him. Rick gave numerous talks to naturalist clubs around BC, and he led bird watching trips for the Kamloops Naturalist Club. In recognition of his numerous ornithological accomplishments, Rick received the Steve Cannings Award in 2018 from the BC Field Ornithologists.

Rick's passion for education did not just extend to bird watching. He ran a wine tasting course for several years, he judged photography competitions and exhibits; he gave wildlife presentations and talks in schools; and he posted his photos on Facebook along with commentary and information. Rick was always keen to share his knowledge and expertise with others.

Rick was a Renaissance man with endless curiosity about many subjects and a lifelong learner His family and friends were always astounded by the numerous and new interests that Rick was always pursuing - cycling, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, insect collecting, sand collecting, stamp collecting, weightlifting, cross country skiing, wine making, cooking, hiking, photography, and home renovating. His last pursuit was recording and photographing the train engines that passed through Kamloops.

Family was an important part of Rick's life. When Rick married Carol, he gained a large, extended family At first, he was shy around his new family, but with time he learned to be as loud and boisterous as the rest of them. He was always grateful for being embraced by Carol's family

He was very proud of the accomplishments and musical ability of his daughter, Christina. When his grandson, Hudson, was born, Rick was excited for the opportunity to pass on his love of the outdoors to a younger generation.

A special thank you to Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice for their kind compassionate care during Rick's final days. We encourage donations in Rick's name to this wonderful place.

A Celebration of Life will be held later in the year when the birds return to Kamloops.

Condolences may be sent to DrakeCremation.com

Lorna Fay Prokop

June 18, 1944 - December 29, 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beautiful mother, stepmother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great grandmother Lorna Prokop on December 29, 2022.

Lorna will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by her children Debbie (Greg) McKee, Delores (Ed Bailey) Frechette, Beverley (Mal Spelbos) Black, Dale (Janell) Prokop. Grandchildren Katie (Trevor) Huszti, Jennifer (Shahed) McKeeMohammed, Tegan McPhee, Justin (Meggi) Black, Leah Black, Matthew Black, Hailey (Jason Kirton) Prokop. Great Grandchildren Arriah and Theodore. Her Sister Dianne Connolly, Sisters-in-law Elsie Kinaschuk, Mary (Dave) Emery, Bernice Prokop, Evelyn Prokop, and Brother-in-law Bill Prokop. She will be fondly remembered by her aunt Gloria, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Lorna was predeceased by her parents Frank and Catherine Kohlman, her husband Morris Prokop, and her brother Del Kohlman. Brothers-in-law Ernie Connolly, John Prokop, Don Prokop and Joe Prokop, Sisters-in-law, Josie Prokop, Jessie Kinaschuk, Anne Booy, and many other close relatives.

Lorna was a wonderful person with a kind heart who loved her family and friends to the fullest. Many of her favourite memories were family gatherings at her parents’ house, where rec room was always filled to the edges with people strumming guitars, singing, dancing, playing, and plenty of laughter She loved to hear her dad sing. Family time was very important to her; inviting those closest to her into her home, whether it be for a holiday or a random Tuesday Lorna enjoyed watching her grandchildren play soccer with their uncles in the backyard, setting up forts in the living room, or having tea parties. She was proud of them all.

Lorna enjoyed her working career at Reliable Distributers and Westburne. Quite often Lorna and Morris could be found at Jack Daniels dancing the night away She enjoyed shopping with family and her coffee dates at The Golden Dragon and Caribou Restaurants.

We appreciated her for her witty sense of humour, teasing ways, warm hugs, and the way she made you feel loved. Lorna made a lasting impact on everyone she knew and left her friends feeling like they were family She will be sadly missed by many

Special thanks to Dr Mavis Hollman, the staff at Bedford Manor, and the friends she quickly made there.

Rest in Peace and Live Forever

in Our Hearts

A celebration of Lorna’s life will be held at a later date.

Condolences can be expressed at www.drakecremation.com

In lieu of flowers the family would like you if you wish to donate to your favourite charity