Kamloops This Week March 15, 2023

FIRST METÍS MAN OF ODESA HITS STAGE A21

The play, presented by Western Canada Theatre , begins March 16

The Plaza Hotel in 1931, two years after it opened in downtown Kamloops at the corner of Victoria Street and Fourth Avenue. The Plaza was designed in a Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style that was popular at the time.  The Plaza is a prominent downtown landmark — visibly iconic for its iron railings, stucco siding and arched windows and doors. It is also a registered heritage site through the City of Kamloops.

PHOTO COURTESY KAMLOOPS MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

C I T Y PAG E

Mar 15, 2023

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.

March 28, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

March 28, 2023

7:00 pm - Public Hearing

April 4, 2023

10:30 am - Finance Committee

April 4, 2023

1:30 pm - Civic Operations 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

Notice to Motorists

Please use caution when driving in the vicinity and obey all traffic control personnel, signs, and devices in the following areas:

• For tune Drive

Oak Road to Overlanders Bridge

• Singh Street

Ord Road to Parkcrest Avenue

• Lorne Street

8th Avenue to 10th Avenue

To stay up to date on road work projects, visit:

Kamloops.ca/Kammute

Yard Waste Sites Open

The Bunker Road and Barnhar tvale Yard Waste Sites are now open for the season.

You can find the operating hours at:

Kamloops.ca/Landfills

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

M U LT I - U S E PAT H WAY E T I Q U E T T E

Spending time in the outdoors is a favourite pastime for many K amloops residents

K amloops has multiple multi-use pathways that are popular for c yclists and pedestrians

I t ’s impor tant to follow rules and use etiquette on our multi-user pathways to ensure ever yone's safety and enjoyment

Thoughts to keep in mind include:

• Wear a helmet when you are c ycling

• Wear reflective items when you are out at night

• Yield to pedestrians

• Obey all traffic signs

• Slow down when coming up behind people and ring your bell or announce yourself before passing

• Keep in your lane (right side of the path) when oncoming traffic is approaching

• Be aware of your surroundings, people, and animals

• Use the garbage cans located along the trail

• Be cour teous and monitor your speed.

By following these simple guidelines, we can all do our par t to ensure that our trails can be enjoyed by ever yone

H O W D O Y O U PA R T I C I PAT E ?

Residents are encouraged to par ticipate in an online sur vey to provide feedback as to how they use the Activity Guide and par ticipate in programs

• Is there a program you'd like to see offered?

• How many programs have you registered for?

• Do you prefer a digital or physical copy of the guide?

Feedback will be used to help with decisions for future programming and distribution. Par ticipants who complete the sur vey will be entered to win a $100 Downtown K amloops gift cer tificate The sur vey will be open for input until 4:00 pm on April 15, 2023.

Take the sur vey at: Kamloops.ca/Ac tivityGuide

529 G A R AG E A N T I - B I K E T H E F T

A P P L I C AT I O N

Register your bike with 529 Garage bike registr y for free —it only takes five minutes!

529 Garage is a comprehensive bike registr y and recover y system that deters bike theft, increases the likelihood that stolen bikes will be returned to its owners, and provides an investigative tool for the police to identify stolen bikes

Registrants create online profiles with photos of their bikes and serial numbers and will receive a Shield ID to place on their bike frame These tamper-proof decals are issued at the Nor th Shore Community Policing O ffice (915 7th Street) to K amloops residents with proof of 529 Garage registration.

Register now at:

Kamloops.ca/529Garage

Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461

For after-hours emergencies, press 1.

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

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

MOOSE IS LOOSE AT

MEMORIAL CUP?

This year’s Memorial Cup tournament in Kamloops might take on a tradition seen in Super Bowl and Grey Cup games, but with a local twist.

City council is asking the Royal Canadian Air Force for a favour as Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson will be requesting the Royal

TODAY’S FLYERS

Canadian Air Force 419 (Moose) Air Force Squadron conduct a flyby during the opening ceremony of the 2023 Memorial Cup on May 26.

The Kamloops-connected Moose squadron is stationed in Cold Lake, Alta. It was named Moose Squadron after its first

commanding officer, Wing Commander John “Moose” Fulton, one of the most decorated and revered Kamloopsians to ever serve in the Second World War. The runway at Kamloops Airport is named Fulton Field in his honour. Fulton was shot down in 1942 during the Second World War. His body was never found.

The body of Rick Greenstone, who was known as Rick of Rossendale on the streets of Kamloops, was found about two weeks ago, with no word yet on cause of death. This photo was taken in early February as KTW interviewed users of Cllémentem, the city-owned mini-storage and washroom facility used by Kamloops’ homeless population.

WEATHER FORECAST

March 15: Sun and clouds 10/-3 (hi/low)

March 16: Sunny 9/-1(hi/low)

March 17: Sunny 12/-1 (hi/low)

March 18: Sunny 13/2 (hi/low)

March 19: Sun and clouds 14/2 (hi/low)

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Death of homeless man investigated

A homeless man who was the subject of a Feb. 8 KTW story on those who use a downtown mini-storage facility has been found dead near his outdoor camp near Riverside Park and the Thompson River.

The body of Rick Greenstone, who was known as Rick of Rossendale on the streets of Kamloops, was found on Feb. 22 near the South Thompson River, between the Red Bridge and Sandman Centre.

Jennifer Adams, housing co-ordinator for the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society, told KTW staff at the mini-storage facility confirmed Greenstone died and was found by his camp near the river, but added that the cause is as yet unknown.

The Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society operates the mini-storage facility for the homeless at 48 Victoria St. W.

“He tented most of the winter, only accessing shelter occasionally because of limits to his service with some providers,” Adams said.

“He accessed mini-storage daily and was a really nice guy. I do not have any confirmation if it was exposure or not. We do not always get info on the cause of death.

“The one thing that Rick always said, and he had said to me, ‘If anything happens to me and I don’t make it through this experience, I want my experience to be told.’ He wanted people to know about the barriers that he faced getting supported.

“We work very, very hard to support people with where they’re at without judgment. We see street people as our family ... maybe it leads to a little bit more patience.”

Adams cited two other recent deaths of homeless people on the streets of Kamloops: Jason Zilesco, who died in a shed fire in North Kamloops on Oct. 29, 2022, and Tara Brenning, who passed away in the doorway of the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society earlier this winter.

“They may not have died from exposure, but being exposed and alone contributes to death on the street,” Adams said.

Greenstone, 53, was from England who

visited the mini-storage facility as a part of his routine to practice hygiene, socialize with the community and safely store his belongings.

Prior to that, he told KTW in February, his belongings were turfed in other circumstances throughout the city.

“They used to call me Rick of Rossendale,” Greenstone said. “Rossendale is near Lancashire, in northern England, but say it’s outside of Liverpool. I’m a Liverpool fan and they need all the support they can get.”

Greenstone told KTW he had been asked to leave shelters during his time on the street.

“I didn’t know Rick very well,” said Glenn Hilke of The Loop, a drop-in centre in North Kamloops.

“The only thing I can tell you about him is that whenever I showed up at the storage centre to bring food for everyone, he was always one of the first people to jump out of his chair to help me unload the food and always had a very special and friendly greeting. He was a very positive energy kind of guy.”

KTW has a call in to the BC Coroners Service for more information.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW FILE PHOTO

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

TRU embroiled in Russian flag flap at IDays

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

Thompson Rivers University professor Oleksandr Kondrashov has taken issue with the school’s display of the Russian flag during last week’s International Days, also known as IDays, which returned after a two-year hiatus.

Kondrashov said he was alerted by a Canadian and TRU alumnus fighting on the front lines in Ukraine that the university had displayed the Russian flag in a social media post promoting IDays, the university’s annual event that highlights cultures from around the world.

TRU’s international vice-president, Baihua Chadwick, was not made available by the university for an interview on the matter, but the university did issue a statement in response to queries from media.

“TRU has more than 50 Russian students studying on campus and our policy has always been to display the flags of those who have joined us from

elsewhere in the world,” the statement reads.

The statement continues, condemning the war in Ukraine, as the university did in 2022, and saying the decision to fly the Russian flag at IDays, as a flag of one of more than 100 countries represented, “was made after consideration of our values of inclusivity and respect, and to mark the diversity of our community.”

Kondrashov takes issue with TRU’s reasoning for including the flag. He said he takes no issue with students celebrating diversity or sharing their culture.

“But this type of flag is, unfortunately, extremely bringing harm to anybody who stands with Ukraine,” he said. “They talk about diversity and inclusion while not talking about equity and social justice, and the most important is the harm and trauma the Russian flag is bringing to the people of Ukraine.”

The university did not provide the number of Ukrainian students studying at the university before KTW press deadline on Tuesday , March 14.

Kondrashov suggested TRU fly the protest flag, which is the Russian white-blue-red flag with the red line changed to white.

“They do it as a protest, for people who want to say, ‘We are Russian, but we against the war in Ukraine,’” he said.

TRU acknowledged in its statement that Russian students aren’t sent by their government to study in Canada and are not an official delegation.

“They have found their way here as individuals, many of whom do not support the violence and illegal aggression,” the statement reads. “We want all international students to know that despite world events, they are welcome and supported at TRU.”

Kondrashov questioned how welcoming it would be for Ukrainians in Canada to see a public university flying the Russian flag.

“This is where the concern is. I was so angry because I couldn’t believe people from the frontlines, who are Canadians and TRU alumni, people who went there to make sure it was never flown on that land, and now it is at TRU,” Kondrashov said.

The Russian flag was one of many flown at last week’s International Days event at Thompson Rivers University.

FACEBOOK PHOTO

City property tax hike rises to 7%

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

The projected property tax increase in Kamloops has risen by almost two per cent, to 6.91 per cent, after council approved virtually everything in its supplemental budget item list.

Prior to the March 7 approval, homeowners were looking at a tax hike of 4.96 per cent.

The project tax increase will be the largest this century and will follow last year’s hike of five per cent, which had been the largest such increase this century.

Aside from a $50,000 request from Venture Kamloops to fund a study, council approved all 10 items on the slate, which add up to an additional $6.9 million in spending.

The projected 6.91 per cent tax hike means another $138 per year from owners of average-assessed properties in Kamloops.

According to Lewis Hill of the city’s finance department, the average assessed home in Kamloops as of February was $707,800. The supplemental budget items add an extra $138 for the year to that property’s taxes, which will be $2,758 up from

$2,620 prior to adding the supplemental items to the budget.

That increase is based on that property’s assessment rising by about the average 11 per cent, as reported by the BC Assessment Authority in January. The tax rate bylaw must be approved by April 18.

The supplemental items approved will see the city add firefighters in Westsyde, fund a marquee sign, add community service officers, fund active transportation initiatives, fund beautification efforts across the city, buy vehicles for community service officers, twin the left-turn lane onto Highway 1 from Summit Drive and add a second left-turn lane from Hugh Allen Drive onto

Pacific Way, near the Highway 1 exit onto Hugh Allan.

Venture Kamloops requested $100,000 to complete a real estate data analysis to attract outside developers, followed by an economic impact study across all sectors of the local economy.

Council unanimously approved the money for the economic impact study, but failed to see the need and benefit of the real estate study, with some noting the sector could produce that data itself.

Council approved the remaining items by an 8-0 vote, with Coun. Margot Middleton absent from the meeting.

The lone dissenting vote during the meeting came from Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson, who was

opposed to the request to add more community service officers, given that an arbitration ruling between the city and CUPE 900 over the municipality’s decision in 2020 to change the structure of the bylaws department has yet to come down.

“I’m just wondering if right now is the time to do that because it’s unfinished business right now,” Hamer-Jackson said, noting he felt provincially funded outreach workers could better handle street issues.

City CAO David Trawin said regardless of the arbitration ruling, the city will still need more officers to undertake the duties required of the service.

Emphasizing the need, community and protective services director Byron McCorkell noted the department is receiving about 17,000 calls per year, up from 7,000 calls annually when it was the bylaws department.

He added that community service officers are also in the middle of receiving outreach worker training and can perform more duties than those types of workers.

“The workload has expanded more than what we’re capable of staffing,” McCorkell said.

What's mine is not yours?

Receiving a large inheritance? If you are in a relationship and you receive an inheritance, you may need to consider a Marriage/Cohabitation Agreement. These agreements serve to formalize expectations regarding use and ownership of property while parties live together, and if/when they separate

Generally, BC law protects an initial inheritance as "excluded property" in the event of a relational breakdown, but inheritance growth is not protected Certain circumstances can also cause the inheritance to be considered a 'gift' from the spouse receiving the inheritance to the other (such as if an inheritance is transferred into a jointly-owned bank account) Both situations result in the inheritance being susceptible to challenge by a former spouse

Evidence of the intention of the spouses regarding ownership of an inheritance is vital, and formalizing this understanding with a Marriage/Cohabitation Agreement adds additional protection to the excluded status of an inheritance

If you have questions, we're here help.

Celebrating 40 years of TRU World OPINION

Forty years ago, Cariboo College (as TRU was known then) embarked on a new plan.

Based in House 8, Charles Mossop took the first steps to coordinate and centralize the school’s efforts to bring international students to campus.

Today, thanks to his vision and the dedicated effort of countless others in the decades that followed, TRU World is recognized internationally as a leader in international education. This year, we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of TRU World. It’s a chance for us to look back at its rich history to appreciate the value it brings to TRU and our community and province.

There are several important milestones to recognize.

In 1983, the International Department was created to coordinate international activities for the institution. This centralization of international activities signalled the growing importance of the institution’s connection to the world, as noted by then vice-president academic and soon-to-be president Jim Wright.

The first English as a second language (ESL) programs with international students were held in the mid-1980s. Six students came from Mexico and Hong Kong, with stays varying in length. Some continued to other academic programs, while others returned to their home countries.

These programs marked TRU’s initial commitment to flexible, accessible, impactful educational programs focused on global language and intercultural competencies.

By the end of the 1980s, the International Department was developing its signature holistic approach to internationalization. It was based on providing students and partners with programs that fit their needs, no matter where they were in their academic journey.

Students from Mexico primarily came for our ESL programs. In contrast, students from Hong Kong entered our academic programs for university transfers after our ESL programs. The students from Libya came as contract students in college prep leading to pre-engineering and engineering. Some of these Libyan students entered diploma programs elsewhere. One went on to attend UBC in engineering and others returned to Libya in government positions.

TRU World expanded significantly in the 1990s regarding the numbers of students and the diversity of the countries from which they came.

In 1992, one of our oldest institutional partnerships with Kyoto Bunkyo Junior College, later Kyoto Bunkyo University, was signed. In the broader sister-city relationship, Cariboo College’s International Office joined the City of Kamloops in signing a partnership with Kyoto Bunkyo Junior College. Each year, their students attended TRU for a language and culture immersion program.

Our first International Days celebration — now called IDays at TRU — was held in 1993. The popular event has continued to grow and today features more than 150 showcase participants in 40 performances and 20 events over three days. IDays, which wrapped up on campus last week, has always been an exciting opportunity to showcase our international student community to domestic students and the wider community.

By the early 2000s, TRU had 700 international students from 24 countries, including Nepal, Nigeria, Tanzania, Turkey, Argentina, Finland, Ghana, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Yemen, Ecuador, Iran, Jamaica, Russia and Sri Lanka. In 2004, the Study Abroad Centre was created. Our first students from Egypt, Iceland, Myanmar and Vietnam joined us on campus.

In 2002, TRU launched its first offshore dual degree (BBA)

in collaboration with Tianjin University of Technology in China.

In 2005, TRU World moved into a purpose-built home in a new building which was funded entirely through international revenue.

Based on feng shui principles, the International Building highlighted the strong impact of international students on campus and became an anchor for all the International Office’s student services and training.

The international department officially became TRU World in the same year.

In 2010, TRU’s global competency credential was approved. It formally recognizes the significance of having intercultural skills and international experience for students. In 2019, Charles Mossop — TRU World’s founding coordinator — received an honorary doctorate from TRU for his visionary contribution to the international education field.

This year, TRU World welcomed our largest cohort of international students on campus ever — approximately 4,200 students from more than 100 countries, including our first students from Laos People’s Democratic Republic, Luxembourg and Malawi. Our efforts to grow the diversity of our international cohort continue. The international diversity present at TRU is one of our institution’s greatest strengths. Internationalization is driven by our academic mission. Having a diverse mix of students pres-

ent on campus is essential to our academic goals. We aim for all our students to be competent with respect to intercultural understanding and Indigenous knowledge.

All of this is linked to international elements in the curriculum, study visits abroad for Canadian students, the work of our student ambassadors and so much more.

Mixing ethnicity and ideas in a university environment contributes more to global understanding and cultural awareness than almost any other educational measure imaginable. Students who live and learn together take away a different understanding of the world. It’s one of the fundamental ways post-secondary institutions impact the world.

Bringing together people from different cultures for a common purpose builds relationships and partnerships for generations. We are incredibly proud of how TRU World has contributed to this vision.

To learn more about TRU World and its 40 years, go online to www.tru.ca/truworld.html. We look forward to the next 40 years.

Brett Fairbairn is president and vice-chancellor at Thompson Rivers University. He can be reached by email at president@ tru.ca. View From TRU columns appear monthly in KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

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OPINION

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

DOUBTING DECRIMINALIZATION DECISION

Editor:

The provincial and federal governments’ new program of decriminalizing the possession of a specific amount of hard drugs creates a haven for those addicted to drugs and to dealers.

The decision will make us the drug and, probably, crime capital of the country. It’s already starting. And think about this — every one of those who overdosed and died, and every one of those who were saved, was killed by a drug dealer.

COAL CARS ON TRAINS

SHOULD BE COVERED

Editor:

Years ago, there was a lawsuit concerning train coal dust in Dallas, but I don’t recall ever hearing the outcome.

Fast forward to today.

The coal cars have been switched over to CN from CP and coal cars are travelling through more areas, including Rayleigh.

If governments are so gung-

ho about saving and caring about the environment, why aren’t the railway lines forced to cover the rail cars carrying the coal?

Do others have to bring forth yet another lawsuit?

Can our various levels of governments help out with this ?

Diane Czyzewski Kamloops

TALK BACK Q&A:

Kamloops has people who need help, but don’t really want it and would rather take what they want, sleep where they want, do drugs openly on the streets, defecate wherever, cause property damage and ruin many businesses — all without any real repercussions.

So, where is the other side of the equation?

When the rivers come up, this city will be in complete chaos, with not enough medical facilities, no place

STOP THE FREE MEALS AT

Editor:

I learned of a city Christmas luncheon held on Dec. 16, 2022 at Sandman Center and filed a Freedom of Information request.

The catered lunch was for 350 employees, retirees, council and senior staff at a cost of $10,735.05.

Although, the invitation said the event was hosted by council, the current mayor

and council can’t be held fully accountable as it was a budgeted expenditure. According to the invitation, this was an annual event prior to the pandemic.

I find it reprehensible that taxpayers funded this luncheon when we are looking at a roughly seven per cent increase in our property taxes.

The average Kamloopsian is trying to cut

kamloopsthisweek.com

to hold people for their crimes, overworked police officers, paramedics and firefighters and a sympathetic court system. And now we even give them back their drugs.

It seems totally irresponsible on the lawmakers’ part not to have everything in place first.

If there isn’t the full support system that is needed, then we all become victims.

Dave Ouellette Kamloops

CITY HALL

costs to navigate these challenging times.

For some, it means cutting back on nutritious meals due to high costs or lining up at the food bank, while our well-paid city workers are feasting on a catered lunch. There are many seniors who do not have $30.72 for a week’s groceries — the per person luncheon cost, not including space rental, etc. The

city, however, was collecting food bank donations at the event, so, bring a can of food and receive a $30 lunch. Shame on the bureaucrats of this city.

While catered meal expenditures by city staff and council has been raised previously by KTW, the practice continues. It is time to quit feeding entitlement.

Klare Radloff Kamloops

WHAT’S YOUR RESULTS: Daylight time year-round 45% (376 votes) Standard time year-round 37% (310 votes) Continue time changes 18% (150 votes)

TAKE?

Do

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

In December 2019, CN and Teck Resources announced a long-term deal for the transport of steelmaking coal between Kamloops and North Vancouver.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Mountie acquitted in dangerous driving trial

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

A B.C. Supreme court jury has found a Kamloops Mountie not guilty of a charge of dangerous driving.

The verdict was announced on Monday, March 13, following the two-week trial of Const. Christopher Squire. The jury’s deliberation lasted less than three hours, with several uniformed RCMP members in court for the decision.

Squire, 35, was one of three Mounties at the centre of an Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIOBC) probe following a Dec. 8, 2018, pursuit of a stolen vehicle in Westsyde that left a suspect injured.

Only Squire was charged.

Police dash-cam video played in court showed Squire’s unmarked police vehicle and a marked police cruiser chasing the stolen vehicle eastbound on Ord Road and northbound on

Westsyde Road at about 12:30 a.m. before being told by their watch commander to pull over and end the pursuit.

They were then told to continue into Westsyde to surveil for the vehicle. A spike belt was deployed on Westsyde Road in the event the driver of the stolen truck came back toward the city, which he eventually did, with police vehicles following behind.

When the southbound truck swerved off the road to avoid the spike belt, the vehicle nearly struck an officer at that roadblock. Squire then initiated a PIT maneuver (precision immobilization technique) on the stolen vehicle, with the truck spinning out and stopping and its occupants arrested.

In a PIT manoeuvre, the driver of a police vehicle comes up behind a vehicle being pursued and taps the front end of the police vehicle against the rear corner of the vehicle being pursued, forcing the driver of the vehicle being pursued

to spin out of control.

The Crown was not prosecuting the PIT manoeuvre, but rather Squire’s driving leading up to it.

In his closing arguments, Crown prosecutor Andrew McLean told the jury that Squire’s pursuit of the vehicle never ended and the officer did not consider the safety risks his driving created.

“When we talk about dangerous driving, we’re talking about risks,” McLean told the jury. “The fact a collision did not occur on that stretch of Westsyde Road is good fortune, but it doesn’t mean the driving wasn’t dangerous.” McLean argued Squire disobeyed watch commander Sgt. Brandon Buliziuk’s orders to stop for 30 seconds before proceeding with surveillance in Westsyde.

“No sooner has Sgt. Buliziuk finished his command to terminate that pursuit, literally the

transmission is just ending, Const. Squire’s already pulled off from the side of the road,” McLean said.

McLean said this was a key moment because the 30 seconds was meant to de-escalate the danger by creating distance between police and the stolen truck, but after just 20 seconds, Squire radioed that he had a visual on the stolen vehicle again and he was driving at about 110 km/h at this point — a speed meant to catch the vehicle.

McLean said Squire’s driving at that speed and without lights and sirens presented risks to other motorists who may have been turning onto Westsyde Road from side streets.

Defence counsel Bradford Smith, however, argued Squire followed Buliziuk’s orders and the incident was not one long pursuit. He said Squire was engaged in surveillance at this point, evident by his deactivated lights and sirens and the fact he was following the truck at a distance.

Smith cited Squire’s radio transmission indicating the truck was about a half-kilometre ahead of him and the uncertainty of his description of the vehicle’s location, which inferred it was still a significant distance away.

McLean said when the truck begins heading back, southbound on Westsyde Road, Squire’s unmarked car passes marked police cars and travels at speeds double the posted speed limit without lights and sirens, at about 120 km/h.

He said Squire remaining in eyesight of the truck risked having the person at the wheel of the stolen truck drive dangerously.

“Quite frankly, it created a powderkeg at that roadblock,” McLean said.

Smith asked the jury to reject the idea that Squire’s driving may have impacted the stolen truck driver as he was never called to the stand.

“We do not know what was going on in that individual’s mind,” Smith said.

Killer of husband to be sentenced on April 3

A 33-year-old North Thompson woman who shot her husband to death at a Vavenby campsite in 2020 had her bail revoked and was taken into custody following sentencing arguments in B.C. Supreme Court in Kamloops on Monday, March 13.

Ashleigh Tschritter will remain in custody while Justice Joel Groves decides on a sentence for her manslaughter conviction in December 2022, a verdict brought down by a jury after she had been originally charged with seconddegree murder.

Crown is asking for a sentence of six to 10 years, while the defence is suggesting a sentence in the range of three to five years.

Tschritter has so far accumulated 654 days of credit for time served, based on being under house arrest for 436 presentence days (pre-sentence time served is calculated at 1.5 days for every day).

The time she spends behind bars between now and when Justice Groves levies a sentence — scheduled for April 3 — will also be applied to that time in prison.

On Dec. 1, 2022, Tschritter was convicted of manslaughter after a jury found her guilty of killing her husband, 39-yearold David Simpson on Sept. 6, 2020.

Crown counsel Tim Livingston and Danika Heighes introduced several case studies in their sentencing arguments. Livingston reviewed the outcomes from several manslaughter con-

victions, outlining incidents where offenders exhibited remorse, were of old age, were of good character or had unburdened families of victims by entering guilty pleas, saving them impact from a trial. He argued Tschritter failed to exhibit signs of remorse throughout the trial and had not yet taken responsibility for her actions, in spite of the jury’s manslaughter verdict.

Livingston then introduced Tschritter’s criminal record for obstructing justice, aggravated assault, robbery and numerous breaches of probation, including fatally shooting Simpson while being prohibited from owning or accessing firearms.

Simpson’s mother, Patricia LeBlanc, attended Tschritter’s sentencing remotely via video from Alberta and submitted a victim impact statement.

“I’ve lost my only child,” Livingston told court as he read LeBlanc’s victim impact statement. “This has devastated my life and those of my grandchildren. I’m worried about the state of my grandchildren and I have concerns about their safety and wellbeing. I have a broken heart that will never heal.”

Livingston introduced a secondary victim impact statement from Melissa and James Woodrow, who are the guardians of the children of Tschritter and Simpson, outlining that the children collectively suffer from nightmares, dissociative behaviours, anger, self-harm and guilt.

Defence lawyers Bobby Movassaghi and Bianca Kendregan submitted three letters of character references for Tschritter, and Tschritter also submitted a statement to

Groves too. However, these four submissions were not read out loud in court.

Movassaghi told Groves that Tschritter — prior to having her bail revoked and placed in custody on March 13 as she awaits her sentence — had taken steps to gain employment, regularly visited a counsellor and was taking medication for bipolar disorder. He added Tschritter’s previous criminal history was a result of substance misuse, noting she was in a series of foster homes and began using drugs at the age of 13, when she moved in with a man who was 31 years old.

Justice Groves expressed concern that Tschritter maintains her innocence despite being convicted.

During the trial, court heard that at the time of the shooting, Tschritter told emergency responders that her husband had shot himself. However, an autopsy indicated that the muzzle of the shotgun wound was not touching Simpson’s skin.

Gary Flowers, a friend of the couple who was camping with them, testified Tschritter and Simpson had been drinking and arguing, with Tschritter getting upset when Simpson mentioned another woman. Flowers testified that Tschritter left the group and returned later, holding a shotgun and aiming it at Simpson before shooting him.

When Justice Groves asked if there was anything she wanted to add before sentencing occurs, Tschritter said she was remorseful.

“I would’ve traded spots with him,” she said in reference to her deceased husband.

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

Plaza on market brings back vivid memories

Aghost roams the halls of the Plaza Hotel in downtown Kamloops. She seems to be a friendly phantom, in the mode of Casper, but she can be mischievous now and then.

Just ask former Plaza co-owner Tina Lange.

“There were several times when I was in the building, particularly late at night because you have to work around the clock up there, I would catch sight of a woman, peripheral vision, just sort of going around the corner, going up the stairs, but there was never anybody there,” Lange said.

Whether the spectral guest adds to the value of the grand old hotel remains to be seen. The Plaza is again up for sale, with owners Sumer and Babban Dhillon listing it for $6.75 million. The Plaza, at Victoria Street and Fourth Avenue, is a six-storey, 68-room hotel equipped with a liquor store, cannabis retailer, lounge, nail salon and parking lot. A description of the hotel on realtor.ca states the rooms brought in about $29,000 per key in 2022.

The Dhillons bought the Plaza in the spring of 2017 and reopened the shuttered Fireside Lounge, renaming it Tumbleweeds Lounge as a nod to the watering hole they own in Dallas — Tumbleweeds Pub.

Lange, who managed and coowned the hotel with Vancouver hotelier Rob Macdonald for a few years, leaving in May 2011, said she heard of ghosts as some travellers specifically chose to stay in the heritage building because the Plaza was on lists of purported haunted sites.

Lange would spend time in the hotel by herself — for example, over Christmas when the guest rooms were empty.

“And I had two experiences that, you know, probably made me pee my pants,” Lange recounted, citing large, heavy metal doors slowly closing on their own and coffee maker baskets

ejecting themselves from machines.

Aside from sharing hallways with apparent active apparitions, Lange said the Plaza is a fantastic building, though one that is not easy on the wallet, due to its age.

The hotel is also a city-designated heritage property, which means it can not be torn down and there are conditions placed upon renovations.

“It’s glorious. It was wonderful to work in. It’s warm. It’s got so much charm. It’s got all the original staircase with the big newel posts and wide staircases going right up to the fifth floor, which is, you know, pretty great to run up and down those stairs,” Lange said. “But on the other side, it’s got the oldest elevator in the city — small and slow. And there’s a sign in there that says if you jump up and down, the elevator will stop and I cannot tell you how many people wanted to test that theory.”

Yes, the elevator would stop and Lange would have to run five flights of stairs to get to the rooftop patio and into a mechanical room to restart the lift.

“In the meantime, there’s people locked in the elevator, which I’m telling you is very small,” Lange said.

“Uh You know, we changed out all the mattresses once and they had to be physically carried up and down the stairs because you couldn’t get a queen size mattress into the elevator.”

Another feature of the hotel, but one not currently in use, is the rooftop patio (which was used for a memorable event in 1937, as a story on the following page details).

Lange said current building codes and necessary upgrades have left the rooftop patio off-limits to regular use.

“I used to go up there practically every day. I was just in love with that spot, I had chairs up there just so I could sit up there and enjoy it.,” she said. “And the view is just spectacular. I took groups up there all the time, from various countries, to show them. You know, you could see all the way over to St. Joseph’s church (on the Tk’emlúps reserve) and you really see all the rivers and everything.”

Unfortunately, that space lacks water supply and washrooms and houses noisy venting systems, furnaces, air conditioners — all the components of the engine that keeps the Plaza humming.

Back in the day, though, the Plaza rooftop patio was known as the Tea

Garden and featured white wicker furniture and potted palm trees.

Lange said the Plaza was also the hotel at which Princess (and future Queen) Elizabeth and Prince Philip were to stay in during their 1951 visit to Kamloops.

“And, so, they redid the the honeymoon suite, which is on the fifth floor and it’s on the corner of the building,” Lange said, noting the royal couple’s itinerary changed and they never did enjoy the revamped room.

“It’s still there, the honeymoon suite. It’s beautiful and still the nicest suite.”

The Plaza does not have certain amenities found at more modern hotels, such as a pool or hot tub.

But it does have an appeal.

“You get people who are interested in something that’s got, you know, some heritage appeal, some charm,” Lange said. “It’s a little bit different kind of quirky. There’s about, I don’t know, six or seven rooms in the hotel that are the original small rooms.”

Those rooms, Lange noted, are tiny — a single bed, no closets, small bathroom and shower and a couple of hooks on the wall.

Originally, she said, those rooms

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

didn’t even have bathrooms.

“And I didn’t know that until I had customers coming in, elderly customers, who asked if they could please have one of the rooms with the bathroom,” Lange said, noting they had stayed at the Plaza when they were younger, when they had to walk down the hall to use the washroom.

“So, you know, we would market those little tiny rooms as the special heritage rooms and, of course, a great price on them.

While the Plaza has endeared itself to many, including Lange, she said it is also “the building from hell” when it came to issues like plumbing and heating and air conditioning.

But doing work around the hotel did yield fascinating facts.

“Every time I did a renovation, there was so many surprises, but some of them were fun,” Lange said, noting the time she redid the back banquet room and had to add sound suppression material in the space between the banquet room and the hotel rooms above.

“There’s a huge space in there, probably about eight feet to deal with, but it was full of pipes and wires and whatnot,” she said.

“But the fun thing was, we discovered that when it had been a stripper bar, one of the rooms above there was right above the stage and they had a hole cut in the floor and the girls would actually come down the brass pole from the floor above and slide down.”

Alas, that brass pole, while in storage in the hotel’s basement, was later stolen, much to Lange’s chagrin.

It is suspected a tradesperson walked off with it, but perhaps it was that pesky ghost, who may or may not have enjoyed sliding down the brass pole in human form long ago.

Hosted by Marty Hastings &Chris Foulds

CHRISTOPHER FOULDS KTW EDITOR editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

Former Plaza Hotel co-owner at the magnificent bar in the hotel’s Tumbleweeds Lounge. The mahogany bar was repurposed from the St. Regis Hotel in downtown Vancouver, while the oak footrest is an original handrail from the old Woodward’s building in Vancouver.

PLAZA HAS A RICH, AND ODD, HISTORY

In 1937, the city held a celebration marking the 125th anniversary of the establishment of Fort Kamloops in 1812.

The celebration was an economic stimulus package; organizers wanted to market Kamloops as a tourist destination and help residents recover from the Great Depression. They were inspired by Vancouver’s Golden Jubilee celebration in 1936, which had attracted thousands of visitors.

With little money available from government, the organizers relied on press coverage and corporate sponsors to spread the word about Kamloops and its attractions. The Hudson’s Bay Company and the Canadian Pacific Railway, both companies with deep roots in the Kamloops community, advertised the anniversary widely. CBC Radio, created a year earlier in 1936, also covered the festivities, as did newspapers across Canada.

The strangest publicity the 125th anniversary received,

however, was from the Deutches Kurzwellensender (KWS), the government shortwave radio station in Nazi Germany. The station prepared a short program about Kamloops’ history and tourist attractions, which it broadcast in English for listeners in North America.

On June 7, 1937, loudspeakers were set up on the roof of the Plaza Hotel so the public could listen in. The sound quality was poor, but G.D. Brown, secretary of the anniversary committee, wrote to the KWS in Berlin to thank them for the publicity. Brown believed the broadcast helped to “weld Canada and Germany together in good-will throughout the world,” according to the Inland Sentinal newspaper. In hindsight, this hope was misplaced as two years later, the two countries were at war.

— Excerpted from historian Forrest Pass’s article in the July 2012 KTW Kamloops History publication marking 200 years since the creation of Fort Kamloops.

ABOVE: The view from the Plaza rootop patio, which is no longer in public use.

CAROLYN B. HELLER/HOTEL SCOOP

LEFT: Former Plaza Hotel co-owner Tina Lange peeks out from the smallest elevator in Kamloops.

RIGHT: Lange outside the 95-year-old Plaza Hotel in downtown Kamloops.

DAVE EAGLES PHOTOS/KTW

Victoria Street West day space will return in 2023

MEANWHILE, CITY LOOKS AT EXPANDING DAY SPACE AND STORAGE IN NORTH KAMLOOPS, VALLEYVIEW

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops council will allow a day space for the homeless to reopen for another summer, but is asking staff to address ongoing issues business owners have with the site.

Staff intend to gather statistics, consider adding more storage spaces and enhance the structures at the day use site.

Council unanimously approved a short-term use permit for The Mustard Seed and Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society to operate a day space for the homeless in the parking lot of the city-owned mini-storage facility at 48 Victoria Street West, beginning next month. The storage facility is used by the city’s homeless population to store their belongings, do laundry and use the washrooms and showers.

The day space, known as The Gathering Place, will be open from April 1 to Oct. 31. This will

be its third year of operation, providing the city’s marginalized a place to spend the day, have meals and get referred to services.

The permit comes while council tasks staff with reviewing the operations of the mini-storage facility as a result of a motion from Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson and numerous complaints of Victoria Street West business owners, of which he is one. Those issues include harassment, vandalism and theft attributed to the marginalized population along the corridor, some of whom reside in social housing units that share the street with businesses.

“The concern of the BIA continues to be the impacts offsite [the storage facility] on downtown businesses and the safety of their staff,” Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association executive director Howie Reimer told council at its Feb. 28 meeting.

The permit approval came

with council also directing staff to provide further recommendations to alleviate reported concerns and that a corresponding report reflect the concerns of the community, including Victoria Street West business owners.

Coun. Kelly Hall, who chairs the city’s community and protective services committee, told his fellow councillors they have to understand the concerns the business community has with the space and address them, but at the same time the day space needs to be up and running.

“There’s still work to be done,” he said.

According to a staff report to council, which was reviewed by the committee, the city intends to gather detailed monthly stats in 2023 on the services provided by The Gathering Place and the mini-storage facility and report them to council’s community and protective services committee with strategies for improvement.

Staff will also look into install-

ing a durable tension fabric structure at the day space and, possibly, air conditioning for more privacy and cover from inclement weather, rather than pop-up tents, which may reduce impacts on surrounding businesses.

“We are going to encourage a higher level of investment,” community and protective services director Byron McCorkell told council, referring to The Gathering Place.

Additionally, the city is looking to add the day space and a storage facility model in other neighbourhoods, including North Kamloops and Valleyview, and present the committee with potential sites partner groups could operate.

“Those are conversations community and council are going to have to have because, as we’ve seen, there’s this belief that creating these venues creates problems,” McCorkell said. “But we still have the problems

whether we have the venue or not.”

Managing problem behaviour amongst clients due to limited employees caused by staffing shortages and lack of appropriate training for security guards in handling the marginalized population are amongst the challenges of the mini-storage facility and day space, according to the staff report. Other issues include vandalism of the site after operating hours, on-site drug use and the fact that demand for the service currently outweighs the building’s operational footprint. According to the report, additional Mustard Seed staff, who were hired to run cold weather shelters this past winter, may be redeployed to the day space over the summer to address staffing challenges. Prior to opening the day space, the city and the nonprofits will discuss options for monitoring the site overnight and enhancing security guard training.

The City of K amloops has contrac ted BA Dawson Blacktop Ltd to complete resur facing and utility work on For tune Drive between Oak Road and O verlanders Bridge

Work will begin on March 6, 2023 and is expec ted to be complete by the end of June Construc tion is scheduled to occur Monday–Saturday, 7:00 am–5:00 pm. Some evening work may be required

Traffic & Transit Impacts

Traffic detours may be in effec t and transit will be impac ted. Visit the projec t page at LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/For tune for the most up -to - date information.

Please obey all traffic control personnel and equipment when driving in the vicinity of the construc tion

Questions?

For more information, call 250-828-3461 or visit:

This coyote arrived at the BC Wildlife Park in east Kamloops after being orphaned as a pup. The park’s contingent of coyotes were recently sent to Montréal as part of a reorganization of some animal habitats.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Coyotes bid adieu to BC Wildlife Park quarters

BREANE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

The BC Wildlife Park has recently said goodbye to the coyotes it had once rehabilitated.

Glenn Grant, the park’s executive director and general manager, said the decision stems from the park’s plans to expand in the coming years.

“We just had coyotes that we relocated to Montréal,” Grant explained. “They really weren’t a good fit for us in the location that they were in the park.”

He said more room is needed for the grizzly bears — Dawson and Knute — but

a raccoon exhibit is in the way.

“So we’re going to relocate the raccoons to where the coyotes were and then the coyotes had to go,” Grant said.

The coyotes were brought to the park to be rehabilitated, with at least one arriving after it was orphaned as a pup.

According to the BC SPCA, coyotes are related to wolves, foxes and dogs. Coyotes are smart and playful, but have a bad reputation for killing pets and small animals. Coincidentally, these traits make them important for the ecosystem, as a scavenger and predator of rodents.

Rodents are a big portion of an urban coyote’s diet, making them important agents of natural pest control.

Grant said many park visitors thought the coyotes were active, but the reality was they were afraid of people walking past their exhibit.

“Everybody thought they were really cool and really active, but they weren’t,” Grant said.

“They were scared. If animal welfare is our main cause, and it is, then we should do what’s best for the animals — and that was to move them some place they’ll be more comfortable.”

Police seek tips after man shot in Valleyview

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Kamloops Mounties are asking for the public’s help for information as they investigate the non-lethal shooting of a man in the area of the Tournament Inn in Valleyview this past weekend.

Residents and business owners in the area are being asked to check their dash-cams and video security footage and to call Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000

and reference file 2023-8311 if they come across anything that may be related to the shooting.

On Sunday, March 12, at about 8:25 a.m., emergency responders were called to the 1800-block of the East TransCanada Highway for a report of a person who had been struck by a vehicle.

Further investigation revealed the victim had actually been shot.

The victim, who was taken to

hospital with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries, is known to police and the shooting is believed to be targeted.

Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said a person was arrested and released from police custody as part of the ongoing investigation.

“The Kamloops RCMP Detachment is very aware that this type of gun violence is extremely and rightfully concerning to the public,” Supt. Jeff Pelley

said in a release.

“This, and other firearm assaults, such as the late February shooting on McGill Road, are not random acts of violence. These investigations are of the highest priority to us and we continue to work not just on advancing them independently, but strategizing to reduce their presence and hold those responsible to account.”

On Monday, police remained

at the Tournament Inn, at 1893 East Trans-Canada Hwy., believed by investigators to be the area in which the shooting occurred, as officers worked to secure search warrants as part of the ongoing investigation.

“We also encourage residents to continue to call in suspicious occurrences that could be related to the illegal drug trade activities that are believed to be driving these acts of violence,” Pelley said.

Snowpack depths rebound to near normal across province

Last year at this time, a much deeper than normal snowpack locally and across much of the province led to concerns about spring flooding that, fortunately, did not materialize.

This year began with lower-and-average snowpacks as a drier than normal winter persisted.

However, as we enter March, the River Forecast Centre is reporting near-normal

snowpack levels, on average, across B.C.

Data from the March 1 snow survey released this week shows slight changes in snowpack among the North Thompson and South Thompson basins since January.

The North Thompson basin is at 91 per cent of normal (up from 63 per cent a month ago) and the South Thompson basin is at 105 per cent of normal (up from 86 per cent a month ago).

The River Forecast Centre said the snowpack in B.C. increased significantly

in February, with the average of all snow measurements across the province at 94 per cent of normal as of March 1.

On Feb. 1, that percentage was at 79. A year ago, on March 1, 2022, the average of all snow stations in British Columbia for was 105 per cent of normal.

Snowpack levels range from a low of 59 per cent of normal in Skagit (the area along the B.C.-Washington state border, between the Lower Fraser and Similkameen basins) to a high of 124 per cent in the Upper

Fraser West and Okanagan basins.

The River Forecast Centre said that by March 1, nearly 80 per cent of the seasonal snowpack has accumulated, on average. However, with a couple of more months of potential snow accumulation, seasonal snowpacks can still change significantly based on weather.

This year’s snowpack is accumulating under La Niña conditions, which typically leads to increased late-season snowfalls and delayed onset of snowmelt.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

LOCAL NEWS

Lords of Pipeline to the rescue

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

After a child’s bicycle was stolen from Arthur Stevenson elementary in Westsyde, the family of five was disappointed to learn the licence plate number of the van used in the theft could not be seen in photos taken after the crime.

However, about two weeks after the Feb. 22 theft, not only did 12-year-old Jacob Paauwe receive a new ride from the District Bicycle Company — his four siblings also got new wheels.

The gift was courtesy The Lords of the Pipeline, a group of Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project employees from Spread 5A who help families in the communities where they work with acts of kindness for various causes.

“They came in here to get an idea of what they wanted,” said Jack Congreve, sales manager at the District Bicycle Company in the Summit Shopping Centre. “We put together a price for everything.”

The Lords of the Pipeline learned of the bike theft via a post on social media.

“My wife, being the Mama Bear that she is, put a post up on Facebook calling out the people who had done this and how it broke Jacob’s heart. It was his most prized possession,” said Brenton Paauwe, father of Jacob.

“The community really rallied around us. We had lots of people sending messages, wanting to replace the bike, buy him a new bike, and people were sending small donations to help cover the cost.”

Paauwe said one person in particu-

lar — Derek Pickford of the pipeline crew — reached out to the family and spoke with Paauwe.

At that point, Pickford told Brenton about The Lords of the Pipeline.

“He didn’t know how much it would cost, so he told me to go shopping and figure out how much it would cost,” Paauwe said.

So, Paauwe shopped around, visiting numerous bike shops in town. He said he chose District because staff there didn’t push anything fancy and did not upsell.

From there, District staff connected with The Lords of the Pipeline to arrange replacement of Jacob’s stolen bike.

However, when the family went to the District Bicycle Company store, they were shocked to find new bikes for all five kids, along with helmets, shirts and tickets to the movies for a night out as a family.

The bikes were under tarps at the store. When Jacob unveiled his new bike, staff told his siblings to look under the other tarps — which is when they made their exciting discovery.

“I’ve tried my best to make sure all of our kids have reliable bikes,” Paauwe said.

“I ride mountain bikes and I wanted to encourage the kids to go in that direction. I would go on marketplace to find good, modern bikes that wouldn’t break. I would find and refurbish them so they would have really nice bikes that they could be proud of, but it’s used bikes. For them to finally have these brand new, beautiful bikes, it was more than I could ever afford for them.”

“When you hear a bad story, you have to make it into a really good story,” Pickford said in a post on Facebook as he described his crew’s $5,000 donation for the family’s bikes, helmets and shirts.

There

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• Interested in providing care for sibling groups

• Passionate about engaging and caring for youth

• Interested in suppor ting children and youth who identify as LGBTQ2S+

• Sk illed in caring for children and youth with complex suppor t needs

• Interested in providing weekend respite care for children and youth

SPONSORS:

From left: The Paauwe siblings — Noah,6, Mystic, 8, Gabriel,11, Jacob,12 and Connor, 14 — with their new bikes and garb at their Westsyde home.

PAAUWE FAMILY PHOTO

If not sold, Harper’s Trail Winery could close

Harper’s Trail, Kamloops’ first winery, was first listed for sale five years ago, in 2018, when owners Ed and Vicki Collett first indicated they were eyeing retirement.

With no sale of the east Kamloops winery in the intervening years, the couple has announced they will open the tasting room for a final time in May and it will only be open during that month — unless a buyer is found by then.

And, if no buyer is found, the fate of the winery remains murky.

After 16 years in the wine business, the couple has again announced their impending retirement, with plans to release an exclusive collection of library wines in May.

“To have realized our vision of opening a winery and growing premium grapes in the Thompson Valley is a dream come true,” Ed said in a statement.  “Despite the hard work and challenges along the way, we wouldn’t change a thing. It took a lot of courage to be the first to step

up in a new wine region, but to see the Thompson Valley wine industry emerge and grow into what it is now — an official wine appellation — has been, and continues to be, beyond gratifying.”

The Colletts purchased the 2761 Shuswap Rd. property in 2007, planted the first vineyard block in 2008 and opened Harper’s Trail, Kamloops’ first winery, in 2012.  Since that time, Harper’s Trail has grown to a 5,000-case brand producing 100 per cent estate wines grown

on the property’s 25.5-acre vineyard.

“It’s definitely bittersweet,” Vicki said. “Although we are excited to retire and ready to move on to the next stage of our lives, we really enjoy welcoming guests to the winery and take great pride in introducing people to the quality of wines from this region. We will miss that. We have immense gratitude for our staff, our loyal customers and industry stakeholders who have supported us along this journey.”

Over the span of 10 vintages,

ABVP VE TERINARIAN MAINTAINS CER TIFICATION IN FELINE PR ACTICE

K amloops veterinarian Dr Diane McKelvey has successfully achieved re -cer tification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinar y Practitioners (ABVP) specializing in Feline Practice ABVP requires Diplomates to renew and achieve cer tification ever y ten years . Dr. McKelvey has been cer tified as a feline medicine specialist since 2003.

Dr. McKelvey is a graduate of the Western College of Veterinar y Medicine in Saskatoon She currently practices at Aberdeen Veterinar y Hospital in K amloops, which she established with Dr Ken Gummeson in 2015.

The American Board of Veterinar y Practitioners recognizes excellence in clinical practice through the cer tification of species-oriented specialists . There are currently 6 veterinarians in Canada who are recognized by the ABVP in the feline specialt y.

the wines have garnered many top honours in prominent national and international wine competitions.

“In the creation of Harper’s Trail, the Colletts have been instrumental in the development and credibility of the Thompson Valley wine region,” Kamloops Winery Association executive director Trish Morelli said.

“They have proven to the wine world the quality of wines coming from this region and have helped to put the Kamloops Thompson Valley on the wine map. This is the legacy they leave.”

In planning for their retirement, the Colletts have again listed the winery for sale. It is listed with Cushman & Wakefield.

KTW asked Morelli, who was speaking on behalf of the Colletts, about the sale price.

“It has been requested that interested parties contact directly with their agent,” Morelli said. “I can say that the new listing price is lower than the original. Given the Colletts have formally announced their retirement, I would  suspect they are quite motivated to see reasonable offers.”

Morelli said the current listing is different from the original listing, noting offers have not been close enough to complete a sale.

“Plan B would be to sell the property with buildings,” Morelli said. “Winery equipment and farm equipment would be sold off independently.”

Asked if there is a possibility Harper’s Trail closes this year if a buyer is not found, Morelli replied: “That is a possibility and hence everyone is hopeful for a sale and seamless transition.”

As for why no sale has been completed in six years, Morelli said there is no specific reason to which one can point.

“No, I don’t know for sure,” she said. “Although between pandemics, wildfires, heat domes and other extreme weather conditions, I would say that the market for winery sales hasn’t exactly been ideal.”

The winery will be open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in May, including a happy hour special with live music on Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK Harper’s Trail Winery , at 2761 Shuswap Rd., is 120 acres total in size, including 25.5 acres of planted vineyards and 20 acres of riverfront land.

COLLIERS PHOTO

Vaccine mandate for public servants to end

As of April 3, BC Public Service employees will no longer be required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19.

However, employees who work in health-care facilities will continue to need to be vaccinated due to the ongoing provincial health officer orders.

In a release, the Ministry

of Finance said the decision to rescind the mandatory vaccination policy among public service employees — there are about 35,000 public servants in B.C. — was made based on the high level of vaccination among the employees and the current state of the pandemic.

The ministry said more than 98 per cent of employees met the requirement.

While the public service is removing its policy, people are still required to be vaccinated if they work in settings with provincial health officer orders or other vaccination requirements, including hospitals and care homes.

The vaccination requirement for public-service employees was implemented in November 2021.

Mustard Seed admin changes on the way

The managing director of The Mustard Seed in Kamloops will be stepping away from the role on March 31 to take on the position of government relations officer for B.C. for the social agency.

Thomson is now 2.5 years into what was originally intended to be a six-month stint as managing director.

Thomson was hired in late

November 2020 to succeed Mario Borba, who returned to Alberta after 11 months as managing director. Borba had succeeded Diane Down, who also served for 11 months.

Mustard Seed director of operations Nyasha Manyanye and manager of administration Katie Hutchins will continue to manage staff and operations.

KELLY THOMSON

City Mounties tangle with inebriated teens

Kamloops Mounties

maced a youth, lodged multiple teens in the drunk tank and will be recommending charges against another who smashed a police car’s window during the first weekend of March.

Several people were arrested and ticketed after police responded to a report that 20 teens were intoxi-

cated and causing a disturbance near the bus loop around Lansdowne Street and Sixth Avenue on March 3 at about 8:30 p.m., according to police.

Multiple officers attended and arrested five youths, one of whom, police said, appeared likely to assault officers, resulting in police deploying pepper spray

at the individual.

The youths were taken to cells, then later released to their guardians and issued tickets in relation to possession of alcohol by a minor and public intoxication.

On March 4, police also arrested an intoxicated male youth at about 10 p.m. on the North Shore and seized a knife from him.

Sun Peaks winner at BC Tourism Awards

The Kamloops area had a winner and a finalist showcased at the 2023 BC Tourism and Hospitality Awards.

The gala event was held on

March 2 in Prince George.

Sun Peaks Resort won the Employees First Award, while Monte Creek Winery just east of Kamloops was a finalist for

the Sustainability Award.

The awards recognize and excellence, leadership and innovation in B.C.’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Proud to be voted #1 for 2 consecutive years. Thank you to our clients and readers.

Living on the edge while high on Toronto

Teetering on the outer rim of the CN Tower, the tallest structure in North America, I was totally petrified.

I was on EdgeWalk, the world’s highest — and scariest — urban walkway. I’d always wanted to get a different perspective on Toronto, but now I just yearned to be back far, far below.

Earlier at ground level, six of us were bundled into overalls and harnesses. Jordan, our guide, made sure anything that might fall off was removed, including bracelets, hair pins and even chewing gum.

Excited, very nervous and with our ears popping, we rode the elevator up and up for 116 storeys. Reaching the top, we clipped tethers onto an overhead railing, listened to a final safety talk, then ever so tentatively followed Jordan toward the exposed 1.5-metrewide ledge circling the outside of the tower.

Stepping outside was shocking, like entering another world. An incredible view was laid out before me. Facing south, I was astonished to see airplanes heading for Toronto Island Airport, but flying far, far below. Lake Ontario lay before us and sailboats catching the sun looked like tiny butterflies. Rail lines stretched like threads far to the east and west.

Jordan’s voice broke into my reverie.

“I’m going to push your personal limits,” he said. “The first exercise is Toes over Toronto.”

The task was to place our toes over the edge. It sounded simple, but forcing myself to the edge and having to stand there with nothing

but 356 metres (1,168 feet) of air between me and the ground was the most frightening thing I’ve ever done. Luckily, I survived the challenge and we moved a quarter way around the tower.

A blockbuster view greeted us.

Skyscrapers, a Toronto signature, soared below like a forest of redwoods, demonstrating the city is the power and financial centre of the nation. It was exhilarating to have the earth laid out below me like a map and I slowly began to appreciate this unique vantage point.

“The city was first called York and, in 1793, was named the capital of Upper Canada,” Jordan said. “In 1834, it was incorporated

and renamed Toronto. During the 1960s and 1970s, numerous tall skyscrapers were constructed in downtown, but they interfered with radio signals from shorter television and radio towers. So, the CN Tower was completed in 1976, taller than any existing or planned buildings. An engineering feat, it is one of the world’s greatest manmade wonders.”

Jordan led us into the second exercise. This time, grasping our tethers, we placed our feet on the edge and leaned back into thin air over the city below. My pulse skyrocketed.

After regaining my feet — and composure — I noticed the Royal York Hotel below, dwarfed by its

neighbours. Jordan explained that when built in 1927, it was the tallest building in the British Empire. How times change, I thought.

I started to enjoy being on a high. Not hemmed in by concrete, I was viewing the city stretched out like an open book. Most impressive was Toronto’s vastness. It is like a hypergiant star whose enormous gravity field irresistibly pulls more and more objects into its orbit.

We moved another quadrant around the rim. My heart was in my throat as I leaned outward from the rim, holding on desperately to my tether, facing forward and looking straight down on the streets an eternity below.

It was late afternoon and people were emptying out of the skyscrapers and scurrying along streets like tiny insects.

Gulp!

The head offices of Canada’s major banks and corporations

are housed in the surrounding skyscrapers and Queens Park, with its surrounding lawns and trees, is easily visible to the south.

Tens of thousands of people attend games at the Rogers Centre (Blue Jays) and the Scotiabank Arena (Raptors, Maple Leafs), positioned just below me. And, looking carefully, I could make out Roy Thomson Hall, the Princess of Wales Theatre, the venerable Royal Alexandra Theatre, the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum — all part of Toronto’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Standing exposed on a this high, tiny ledge opened up so many more insights, for Toronto with its vast size leads the way in urbanization, incredible diversity and pulsating intellectual, entertainment and entrepreneurial stimulation.

Finally back inside, we unbuckled our harnesses and relaxed. But I was still “high”, for I had experienced Toronto like never before.

Toronto’s world-famous CN Tower rises to 356 metres (1,168 feet) above the streets of the city. At the top, courageous visitors can take part in the EdgeWalk, where they can hang off the edge and get a bird’s-eye view of Ontario.

Hans Tammemagi photo

First Métis Man of Odesa hits the stage

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

Acontemporary love story set against a backdrop of dreary world events will be told on the stage of Pavilion Theatre.

First Métis Man of Odesa will make its world premiere on Thursday, March 16, running until March 25 at the theatre east of downtown, at 1025 Lorne St.

The latest presentation from Western Canada Theatre is based on actual events and is the work of Matthew MacKenzie and Mariya Khomutova, a now-married couple who got together on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MacKenzie, a seventh-generation Edmontonian, and Khomutova, a seventh-generation Odesan, first met in Ukraine while working on a project by director Lianna Makuch, who is now directing the couple’s play.

A friendship turned into a relationship as the two connected online and visited each other’s respective countries, but their access to one another was soon complicated.

When the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020, MacKenzie had just left Ukraine. A month later, he would learn Khomutova was pregnant. Four months later, during a brief window when foreigners were allowed to enter Ukraine, MacKenzie returned and the two hurriedly married in Odesa before returning to Canada.

The two continued raising their son in Canada and all was going well until the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Khomutova became consumed by the news back home and was concerned for her friends and family.

Khomutova said she found it

hard to function in the early days of the war.

“It affected our relationship, especially on my side and my ability to function normally. I was on my phone all the time, just checking, because my father is still in Ukraine and my mother was in Ukraine before we managed to bring her to Canada,” she said.

The unequal effects of the war created a division in the relationship.

“We’re lying in bed together, but we’re sort of a world apart in a way we weren’t during COVID, when we actually were a world apart and only connecting virtually,” MacKenzie said.

Khomutova began writing about what she was feeling — devastation and guilt because she could do nothing for her fellow Ukrainians. She said what came out was “a lot of garbage,” but with pearls here and there.

Those pearls ended up informing much of the play, with MacKenzie’s skills as a playwright and Khomutova’s classical training as an actor coming together to tell their story.

MacKenzie said although he felt like getting political with the play at times, it is ultimately a love story meant to show the human side of issues.

“I think as we were writing it, exploring different avenues, things would get political sometimes, but we found it was always better to just return to literally what happened,” MacKenzie said.

Tickets for the The Punctuate! Theatre production are available online at kamloopslive.ca or by calling the box office at 250-374-5483.

Upcoming presentations of the play are set for The Theatre Centre (Toronto), Citadel Theatre (Edmonton) and The Cultch in Vancouver.

$29,995

Matthew MacKenzie and Mariya Khomutova rehearse a scene from their play, First Métis Man of Odesa, which opens on Thursday, March 16, at Pavilion Theatre. The play will run through March 25. Tickets for the The Punctuate! Theatre production are available online at kamloopslive.ca or by calling the box office at 250-374-5483.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

World Down Syndrome Day is set for

Angela is between her sister, holding her oldest nephew, and her mother, holding her youngest nephew.

21

Each year, March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), which signifies the uniqueness of three copies of the 21st chromosome that causes Down syndrome (DS).

It results in a total of 47 chromosomes instead of 46 and can affect how brains and bodies develop. Also called Trisomy 21, it affects 95 per cent of people with DS. The other five per cent have other forms of DS, but not trisomy 21.

This year, the theme for WDSD is “With Us, Not For Us.” Initiatives include encouraging communities to move from the outdated charity model in which people with disabilities were treated as objects of charity, deserving of pity and relying on others for support.

Three approaches include:

• Human rights-based views of people with disabilities as having the

and does arts and crafts. hgtr

Angela has a Kamloops This Week newspaper route and works one morning a week at a pharmacy. This job offers Angela independence, selfesteem and, as Angela says, “I like the discount where I work, too!”

COVID-19 has reduced the employment opportunities for Angela, as it has for many people.

Of all her jobs, activities and hobbies, Angela most enjoys her association with the TRU WolfPack women’s soccer team. Her future brother-inlaw is coach and he offered her the position of equipment manager two years ago.

right

to be treated fairly and have the same opportunities as everyone else;

• All organizations include people with Down syndrome;

• Decision-makers commit to involve organizations representing people with Down syndrome in all decisions.

Angela is 38 and commits to these approaches in her daily life. With her family and friends doing the same, they are making a difference. She is a

proud aunt to a niece and two nephews and enjoys reading to them and playing with them.

Angela and her friends like to hang out, shop and go out to lunch. For physical activity, they enjoy swimming at the TCC in winter and in her pool in the summer. A regular activity she likes doing with friends is going for walks in the many parks and trails in Kamloops.

To relax, Angela listens to music

She is enrolled with an online Down syndrome organization, where she takes three-to-five-week courses in which she can interact with other students and instructor. One of the course activities is workshop groups to discuss relationships and feelings in different situations. She really enjoys the interaction with other people and peers, especially during the pandemic, when sheltering was in place.

We should all promote inclusive environments and support them every day, not only on March 21. It is important and necessary to prepare and enable teens and adults with DS to live, work and join in with confidence and independence, fully included in our communities alongside their friends and peers.

Tell your friends, family and work colleagues about WDSD and encourage them to be inclusive of all people with special abilities.

Happy World Down Syndrome Day. For more information, check out the Thompson Nicola Ups and Downs Society Facebook page or email dsralph@telus.net.

Blues workshop will feature a special cameo appearance

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

The essence of partner connection and musical dance skills will be the focus of a March 20 workshop.

Dancer Kammron Sammons will be offering an introduction to blues dancing between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Kamloops Sports Council, at 101-1550 Island Pkwy. on McArthur Island.

“Most dances focus on knowing steps and moves without emphasizing the ‘why,’” Sammons told KTW. “Once a dancer knows ‘why,’ they are moved into certain postures, weight changes and positions. The floor

becomes a playground for even the most novice dancer and heaven for a skillful pair.”

During the two-hour long workshop, associated with Lindy in the Loops and the cost for which is $50, people will learn the basics of blues dancing to gain proficiency in social dancing.

“A few of us regular dancers in the community went to a swing dance retreat at a resort near Hope over winter,” Lindy in the Loops spokesperson Justin Mufford said. “We loved his [Sammons’] teaching style and his personality. He’s got lots of knowledge to share. Some of us booked a private lesson because he was so good and we stayed in touch.”

Mufford said when the members heard

Sammons would be visiting Kamloops from Washington, D.C., on a skiing trip, they invited him to teach a special workshop.

“A lot of blues music is slower than swing and jazz,” Mufford said. “There’s actually a lot of crossover ... it’s a nice wind down at the end of our social nights.”

Blues dancing is a combination of contemporary and historical moves from the 1800s to mid-1900s, born from African and European roots. Blues Dance New York said it has evolved significantly in the last 15 years to include unique dynamics, aesthetics, rhythms, attitudes and step patterns that creatively express growth and creativity. It is well known for including

improvisation and street dancing.

“If you’re new, don’t become intimidated,” Sammons said. “We focus on safety and fun. Everyone learns to dance. Even the most famous dancers of all time had to learn how. For those who aren’t new, but feel intimidated, remove the pressure.”

The advanced Blues dancing workshop will be offered from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. on March 20 for $30. That workshop will cover some advanced ideas of the blues genre for those who have been to other blues lessons and social dances.

To purchase tickets for either workshop, go online to https://www.lindyintheloops.com/ bluesworkshopmar20 to register.

DAVE RALPH SPECIAL TO KTW

Mills of the KSO off to Arts Commons in Calgary

organized, filmed and streamed 11 full-length online concerts, which recorded more than 8,000 views.

Kamloops Symphony Society

executive director Daniel Mills will be leaving the organization in midMay to take on the role of director of development at Arts Commons, Western Canada’s largest performing-arts centre, in his hometown of Calgary.

“It is with bittersweet feelings that I share this news,” John McDonald, chair of the KSO board, said in a release, noting Mills’ passion for making orchestral music more accessible to a wider audience was a recurring note throughout his time

with the KSO. During the challenging years of the pandemic, Mills worked to make KSO among the first orchestras in Canada to embrace an all-digital experience during COVID-19 restrictions. Under his management, KSO

The winners of the 13th annual Art Exposed Jurors’ Choice Awards have been named.

Regional art exhibit Art Exposed ran from March 3 to March 12 at the Old Courthouse Cultural Centre, downtown at Seymour Street and First Avenue.

Winners were chosen in five cat-

Early in the pandemic, Mills took on the challenge of running every street in Kamloops, raising more than $25,000 for KSO in the process. Last year, Mills was one of three featured writers in KTW as they documented their progress during Boogie the Bridge training.

While with the KSO, Mills delivered three consecutive balanced budgets during a time when many arts organizations were struggling.

McDonald said Mills also forged strong relationships with other arts organizations, including Western

egories by a panel of three judges: Janice Beaudoin, Finn Modder and Dave Snider.

Two winners were chosen in each category and categories were split into emerging and established artists and by 2D and 3D media.

In the 2D emerging artist category, first place went to Karen Will for River Shore Treasures and second place went to Devin Girard for Action Hero

MATTHEW MACKENZIE and MARIYA

Canada Theatre, Kamloops Art Gallery and Kamloops Film Society, setting the stage for future collaborative ventures. McDonald added that Mills fostered a positive working environment with KSO musicians and their union, the Vancouver Musicians’ Association, and played a crucial role in the transition to the KSO’s new home downtown at the Kelson Hall Centre for Arts and Creativity.

“Daniel and KSO music director Dina Gilbert continually pushed the artistic envelope of our local symphony by presenting innovative and vibrant programming,” McDonald said.

(A Portrait of Michelle Waterson)

The established artist winners in the 2D category were Samaneh Safari for Ancient Persian Nomadic Man and Chris Wenger with his piece Autumn Flow

In 3D media, Sharlene Reid secured first place in emerging artists with her piece Moose and Jocelyn Nielsen’s Rhino took home second place.

Gilbert lauded Mills’ work as an arts ambassador in Kamloops.

“Thanks to his hard work, creativity and music advocacy, he helped KSO achieve its most important phase of growth since its founding,” Gilbert said.

McDonald said Daniel’s and Dina’s successful partnership led to a record number of patrons returning to live performances after pandemicrelated restrictions were lifted, contrary to national trends.

“I will truly cherish the countless individuals I have met and will be forever grateful for the generosity and vibrancy demonstrated by those in the region,” Mills said.

First place among established artists in 3D media went to Garry Davies with his piece titled Sculpture. Jenni Dyer took home second place with Wasted Artist

Finally, Luca Grace Peterson’s work Max took home the prize in the youth category.

For more information about this and other exhibits, go online to kamloopsarts.ca.

DANIEL MILLS

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

save-on-foods presents:

EYE ON COMMUNITY

CHARITY CALENDAR

Share It Forward with Save-On

Riel knows blood donors are crucial

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Stepping out on the ice and hearing the roar of the crowd giving her son a standing ovation on Saturday night at the Sandman Centre was a poignant moment for Bonnie Lepin Antoine and family.

UPCOMING

Boogie the Bridge is Kamloops’ largest celebration of movement. The 26th annual CFJC TV Boogie the Bridge is happening on Sunday, April 23.

Take part in a run, walk or stroll along one of three distances. This year, the run is once again starting in Riverside Park. From the park, the route heads across Overlanders Bridge to the North Shore and follows Rivers Trail along the North Thompson River.

Over the years, Boogie the Bridge has inspired hundreds of people to make a difference in their lives, the lives of their families and the lives of their community members, through movement and community involvement. It also raises money for charity.

The annual event is full of fun, with bands, inspirational chalking and plenty of cheering and encouragement along the route.

To participate (run or walk) in the 1K Kids’ Mini-Boogie, 5K, 10K or 21.1K halfmarathon distances, email registration@ boogiethebridge.com.

Boogie the Bridge is also looking for volunteers. To sign up, email registration@ boogiethebridge.com.

More information is online at boogiethebridge.com.

“You could feel the energy. It was really great because he’s been through a lot,” she said.

Her four-year-old son, Riel Antoine — who battled a rare malignant brain tumour — stood beside his mother, older brother Sequoia and older sister Maya as he dropped the ceremonial puck at the Kamloops Blazers-Vancouver Giants game.

It was Hockey Gives Blood night at Sandman Centre, hosted by its ambassador and Blazers’ captain Logan Stankoven.

Riel and his family were guests of honour for the event, contacted by Hockey Gives Blood co-founder and Kamloops’ own Stu Middleton, who coaches in the same U-13 league as Lepin Antoine’s oldest son.

“The Antoine family has been very proactive in sharing Riel’s story and I thought, at a moment like this, on a stage like this, with a full arena, any time you can highlight the need for blood and why it’s important to donate, it made sense to invite

the Antoine family,” Middleton said, noting Riel’s story was shared with the crowd.

Riel was diagnosed with the rare brain cancer infant glioma at just seven months of age and spent much of the first two years of his life at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver. Following a pair of brain surgeries to remove a tumour and chemotherapy treatments, Riel is now cancer-free.

During his treatment, Riel had 78 blood transfusions, multiple platelet donations and successfully underwent a stem cell transplant.

Lepin Antoine credits the blood her son received for helping to save his life.

Blood cells are made in the bone marrow, the regeneration of which most chemotherapy drugs affect, leading to the need for blood transfusions for cancer patients.

Lepin Antoine said in cases

such as her son’s, he could not wait the months it would take for blood cells to regenerate, noting blood transfusions were needed to keep him alive during the chemotherapy process.

“That’s how the process works and I don’t think a lot of people know that because we think blood donation is for things like accidents,” Lepin Antoine said.

She said blood in men ages 18 to 45 is known as some of the best to donate as it is rich in platelets.

“This charity is great because of that. It helps get younger men out to donate blood,” she said.

Hockey Gives blood is a nonprofit fundraising organization for Canadian Blood Services.

This past weekend’s fundraiser topped a goal of raising $35,000 in support of Canadian Blood Services, taking in $41,000.

The funds raised from

auctioning off 11 Stankovensigned jerseys, along with sponsor and fan donations, will support recruitment of blood, plasma and stem-cell donors, as well as research.

Middleton noted there is a constant need for blood donations, noting Canadian Blood Services’ donor pool is down approximately 31,000 people over the past few years, spanning the COVID-19 pandemic. He said it’s important to build back that list and encourages people to donate blood and register to be an organ and tissue donor.

To learn how to donate blood locally, go online to blood.ca.

Riel meanwhile, is on the verge of entering Kindergarten. Lepin Antoine said it took two years for her son’s blood cell levels to be restored, noting he is deaf due to the chemotherapy causing nerve damage.

But her son is a happy, functional toddler who is also now playing hockey for the first time.

“He had barely any chance of survival and he survived,” Lepin Antoine said.

PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR KAMLOOPS COMMUNITY

Riel Antoine (centre) gets set to drop the puck for a ceremonial faceoff on March 11 between Kamloops Blazer Ethan Brandwood (right) and Vancouver Giant Ty Halaburda. With Riel were mom Bonnie and siblings Sequoia and Maya. ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Concert review: An Evening with Sarah Slean

Two ladies with incredible powers to move us were the focus of this past weekend’s Kamloops Symphony concerts.

While Joni Mitchell can tell it like it is, Sarah Slean goes beyond. Add in the emotional impact of

a very capable orchestra and you get, as one audience member said afterward, “the feeling of floating. “

There is a lot to unpack from this program.

It helps to look up the lyrics and to hear the full version of Lamento

Perhaps do this while still

recalling Slean as something like a water nymph rising from a pond on whisps of air. Her swaying body, the outreached arms, the dress flowing onto her bare feet — they did it.

Some of the highlights include, certainly, the faltering, fading line of Chrisos Hatzig’s Lamento: “Remember me, remember me, but forget my fate.”

The loss of a lover has so overtaken the one left behind that she is no longer able to cope. Her mind has unraveled.

On the lighter side of dark, there were spooky twists of wrists and

fingers depicting Napoleon crawling out of his grave to lay judgment on all tyrants (one in particular?).

Also, Slean’s philosophy that it is right for everything to end as, without ends, there is no meaning — and humans are meaning-seeking creatures.

There was also Mitchell’s iconic Both Sides Now, delivered by Slean, and her encore, There’s Nothing But the Light, which, fittingly, points to a way out of despair.

We were well treated.

Next up for the KSO are the Thorgy & the Thorchestra concerts on March

31 and March 21. All the details are online at kamloopssymphony.com.

In the meantime, there is more music this week.

The Kamloops Community Band presents Play Like the Dickens on Wednesday, March 15, at 7:30 p.m. at Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle, 1550 Tranquille Rd. in Brocklehurst.

The Kamloops Festival of Performing Arts Honours Concert is on Sunday, March 18, at 2 p.m. at Sagebrush Theatre, at Munro Street and Ninth Avenue in Sagebrush/ South Kamloops. Information on that concert is online at kfpa.ca.

Blue Rodeo, McLachlan at Roots, Blues

The Salmon Arm Roots and Blues music festival lineup has been announced and it includes Sarah McLachlan, Blue Rodeo and Five Alarm Funk.

The 31st annual

festival runs from Aug. 17 to Aug. 20 at the Salmon Arm Fairgrounds.

Advance tickets are available on the festival’s website, rootsandblues.ca.

More artist announcements are expected closer to the date of the festival.

The list of performers announced so far:

• Hawksley Workman (Aug. 20, main stage);

• Allison Russell (Aug. 18, main stage);

• Apollo Suns (Aug. 19, shade stage);

• Battle of Santiago (Aug. 19, barn stage);

Name that police puppy

• Blue Rodeo (Aug. 18, main stage);

• Corey Harris (Aug. 19, shade stage);

• Crystal Shawanda (Aug. 20, blues stage);

• DJ Shub presents War Club (Aug. 18, barn stage);

• Five Alarm Funk (Aug. 19, main stage);

• Garnetta Cromwell & DaGroovmasters (Aug. 19, blues stage);

• Hawksley Workman (Aug. 20, main stage);

• Jenie Thai (Aug. 18, barn stage);

• La Dame Blanche (Aug. 19, shade stage);

Until March 16, youngsters ages four to 14 are encouraged to enter the RCMP’s 2023 Name the Puppy Contest to help find names for 13 new German shepherd puppies, any one of which could end up policing Kamloops someday.

• Le Vent du Nord (Aug. 19, shade stage);

• Lido Pimienta (Aug. 19, main stage);

• Melón Jiménez & Lara Wong Flamenco Project (Aug. 20, shade stage);

• Moontricks (Aug. 18, main stage);

• Rick Estrin & The NightCats (Aug. 19, blues stage);

• Sarah McLachlan (Aug. 20, main stage);

• TEKE::TEKE (Aug. 20, barn stage);

• The Melawmen Collective (Aug. 19, barn stage).

A new letter is selected each year to start the names. For 2023, all the names must begin with the letter “S”.

To enter, go online to https:// www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/policedogs-chienspoliciers/name-thepuppy-nomme-chiot-eng.htm.

About 85 students and faculty at Thompson Rivers University took part in a Nov. 29, 2021, rally, calling for the university to place two senior administrators on leave with pay while allegations of harassment were investigated. The investigation and outcome were raised by Julie Macfarlane, a former law professor who is now fighting against the misuse of non-disclosure agreements. She spoke in Kamloops on March 9.

Misuse of NDAs focus of Can’t Buy My Silence

ADVOCATE SPEAKS IN KAMLOOPS, CITES INVESTIGATION AND SUBSEQUENT LAWSUIT AT TRU

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

A former law professor who is now fighting against the misuse of non-disclosure agreements called for Thompson Rivers University to “come to its senses” during a presentation in Kamloops on March 9.

Julie Macfarlane co-founded advocacy organization Can’t Buy My Silence after resigning in protest from her position as a law professor at the University of Windsor due to the use of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) that protected a fired colleague following a harassment and misconduct investigation.

Macfarlane spoke at the Desert Gardens Community Centre, riding high on the introduction of a bill that would change the law around non-disclosure agreements in B.C.

The bill, introduced by BC Green Leader Sonia Furstenau on March 8, would restrict the use of NDAs relating to acts and allegations of discrimination and harassment.

Macfarlane said she is hopeful the bill will make it through the legislature under the current NDP government, who she hopes will make the process an easy one.

“These are people who have a long history of understanding how people get exploited when they are powerless,” Macfarlane said. “And that doesn’t mean every political decision they make is the best one, but I know they understand that.”

Macfarlane co-founded Can’t Buy My Silence with Zelda Perkins, who in 2017 became the first person to break her NDA against disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, who used NDAs to silence his victims of sexual assault.

Weinstein is now in prison, serving a sentence of several decades.

Even prior to the introduction of the B.C. bill, the campaign has seen plenty of success, including a bill passed in P.E.I., two other bills in progress in Nova Scotia and Manitoba, bans on university NDAs in Ontario, England and Wales, a bill set to be introduced in Ireland later this year, a Canadian Bar Association resolution discouraging the use of NDAs and a bill being considered for the state of Victoria, Australia.

The organization has called upon all universities to pledge not to use NDAs in cases involving sexual harassment, discrimination or other forms of misconduct and/or bullying. The intent of the

pledge is to ensure victims can speak about what has happened to them to whomever would be appropriate.

Macfarlane said most NDAs prevent signees from talking about what happened to them with anyone, even therapists and counsellors.

“They intimidate people into staying silent. This is all about intimidation,” she said.

B.C.’s bill, and the campaign’s model bill, is explicit in who those subject to NDAs would be able to speak with, including police, legal professionals, medical professionals, mental-health professionals, government regulators, the office of an ombudsman, prospective employers and friends, family members and personal supporters.

Macfarlane said she is “very much aware” of what has been happening at TRU and has spoken with the group of complainants behind the recently concluded investigation into discrimination and harassment, organized by the university’s board of governors.

That investigation cleared TRU vice-president of administration and finance Matt Milovick and substantiated 10 allegations against Larry Phillips, the university’s former head of human resources, who was

fired from TRU in 2021.

Milovick has since launched a defamation lawsuit against the eight complainants, citing damages and defamatory statements.

The defendants have started an online fundraising campaign to raise money for legal costs.

As of March 14, it had raised $36,500 of its $100,000 goal.

Macfarlane said she doesn’t believe Milovick’s suit has legs and called on TRU to help cease the action.

“I think TRU needs to come to its senses and stop letting one of its vice-presidents sue its current and former employees. It just beggars belief, to me,” she said.

Macfarlane said being the subject of an investigation or allegations is not defamation.

“If we can’t even say there have been some complaints and we’re going to process them, what is anyone ever supposed to do? This is obviously just a tactic to punish the people who complained,” she told KTW

Through his lawyer, David Sutherland, who filed the lawsuit on Feb. 8, Milovick said he takes no issue with any complaint or process undertaken by the complainants within the boundaries of the investigation.

What Milovick does take

issue with is the disclosure by the complainant to the media of allegations as part of a “campaign of vilification” against himself outside the boundaries of the investigation.

Nine months into the TRU investigation, the university’s board of governors waived NDAs affecting the complainants, an action praised by Charis Kamphuis, a TRU law professor and one of the eight complainants. At the time, she called upon the university to review how it uses NDAs and to enact policy prohibiting their misuse.

Macfarlane said she hopes the TRU Students’ Union gets involved in pushing for the university to make the pledge ahead of Furstenau’s bill making its way through the legislature.

She said student support in the U.K., especially at Oxford and Cambridge universities, was “phenomenal.”

She said she hopes more work will be done beyond universities, as well.

“After focusing just on the workplace, we need to take this much wider,” Macfarlane said.

“I talked a little bit about medical malpractice, service agreements and consumer disputes. All of that needs to be done, too.”

MICHAEL POTESTIO/ KTW FILE PHOTO

INSIDE: On-fire Zellweger talks competitive drive |

Brier silver for Sheriff

Grandpa Jim is a pacer. Grandma Carol is a crier. Dean is a proud dad.

Matt Dunstone is their curling comet, the Sheriff, a star whose badge is missing gold — for now.

“You feel what your kid feels,” said Dean, who beamed sporadically through TSN cameras into Canadian living rooms from the Tim Hortons Brier in London, Ont., wincing and smiling and cringing and white-knuckling.

“When he’s hurting, you’re hurting. After about Day 2 or Day 3, I started to realize there is nowhere to hide. They catch you doing things, riding the waves of the ups and downs, emotions — and there were certainly lots of those during the week.”

Brad Gushue, ruthless and robotic, does not discriminate in his callousness and has been barbarous in dispatching five opponents in men’s Canadian curling championship finals, including his latest victim, Dunstone-skipped Team Manitoba.

The Team Canada skip Gushue — who snipped Dunstone and his Regina-based rink in the 2020 Brier semifinal — knifed through danger with his last rock in the 10th on Sunday, March 12, and caught a slice of the button to put a fork in his fifth Brier title, a 7-5 victory in the title tilt.

Let’s hope Grandpa Jim was on a walkabout.

“Everyone was asking, ‘Where’s your dad?’ Dean said of Matt’s galavanting grandfather. “But he’s a pacer, so he was in the walkways most of the time. My mom, she gets emotional. She’s kind of a crier, so she gets everybody going, too. It was special. I’ll look back on it. Nothing but proudness. I’m just so proud. A finalist. Awesome. I’ve watched them enough to know they’ll bounce back.”

Coach Adam Kingsbury, lead Ryan

Harnden (whose brother E.J. won gold with Gushue), third B.J. Neufeld and Dunstone found suds and solace in a Budweiser Gardens locker room on Sunday night. Commiserating, hugging, imbibing, encouraging and reflecting took place until about midnight, libation with family and friends at the hotel bar paved the runway for nightcaps in the room and soon it was time to leave Ontario.

“Hopped in a car at 3:30 in the morning and had to go to the airport. I have not slept a minute,” Dunstone said with a laugh.

Dunstone, 27, is a five-time Brier participant and two-time bronze medallist who added silver to his mantle on Sunday and was spat out at Kamloops Airport on Monday morning, left to collect thoughts after the all-nighter spin cycle.

“The entire final, it’s all a bit of a blur right now,” said Dunstone, whose team earned a cheque for $60,000. “For 20 years, since I understood what the Brier was, that’s what it’s been all about as a curler, getting a chance to play in that final and being one shot away from living out a dream you’ve had for two decades … We shook hands, gave each other hugs and told each other we are proud of one another.”

Dunstone, a first-team tournament all-star, guided Manitoba to a perfect 8-0 record in round-robin play and vanquished Brendan Bottcher 5-3 on Friday in a Page seeding game to reach

the 1 vs. 2 Page playoff game.

The undefeated run ended at the harsh hands of Gushue, whose 5-4 victory was sealed when Dunstone, with hammer, spilled his last rock a few inches too many, a miss that brought the Winnipeger Kamloopsian to tears.

Let’s hope Grandpa Jim was getting his steps in.

“I started curling by throwing ice packs on their kitchen floor,” Dunstone said, his sullen tone on hiatus while speaking of his grandparents.

“I made a masking tape house and would throw ice packs at the button in the middle of their kitchen floor and I would ask them if it was on TSN and they would say, ‘Oh, yeah, we’re watching you, Matt,’ obviously blowing smoke. But I think it’s just a really cool moment to have them be around for that and witness me getting as close as I’ve ever gotten to a dream come true. Pretty cool. They follow me every game. I get messages from them all the time.”

Kamloops resident Matt Dunstone (left) and his Manitoba rink celebrate a 7-5 victory over Brendan Bottcher in semifinal action on Sunday at the Tim Hortons Brier in London, Ont. Brad Gushue and Team Canada knocked off Manitoba 7-5 later on Sunday in the championship game.

MICHAEL BURNS/CURLING CANADA

Matt Dunstone’s grandparents, Carol and Jim, are among his biggest fans.

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

‘It’s always just been how I am’

Olen Zellweger cannot pinpoint its origins.

“I think it just comes from … I don’t know … it’s always just been how I am,” said Zellweger, a 5-foot-10, 182pound defenceman from Fort Saskatchewan, Alta. “The want to win is just so big for me. I want to win so badly.”

The signed Anaheim Ducks’ prospect — picked 34th overall in Round 2 of the 2021 NHL Draft — was the marquee name in the monumental WHL trade deadline deal that took place on Jan. 8, with the Memorial Cup-host Blazers sending a king’s ransom to the Everett Silvertips in exchange for Zellweger and industrious forward Ryan Hofer.

Early returns in Kamloops have been monstrous.

Hofer, a 6-foot-3, 192pound left shot from Winnipeg who recently signed with the Washington Capitals, has 15 goals and 27 points in 23 games with the Blazers.

Left-shot Zellweger, the reigning WHL defenceman of the year and two-time world juniors champion, has 44 points, including 18 goals (four game-winners), in 25 games since the mega-deal.

“It took a few games to feel out my game and learn how the team plays, but we’re really starting to click,” said Zellweger, who has found chemistry with defence partner Logan Bairos.

“A lot of the players on this team can play really fast and play really well with the puck, so that helps me a lot when

I can trust them to get pucks out, to make good plays to me.”

Don Hay has seen a few things in his day.

Associate coach Hay, a Blazers’ legend and three-time Memorial Cup champion, noted Zellweger is a joy for fans to watch and a treat to coach.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if he could play the whole game if you wanted him to play the whole game,” Hay said with a laugh.

“He just really loves being on the ice. He wants the puck. He wants to make plays. He wants to make a difference in the game. He comes to the rink

early and he stays late. He’s such a competitive player.”

Zellweger has 28 goals (most among WHL defenceman) and 72 points (tied for second among league D-men) in 48 games this season, along with six game-winning goals (most among league D-men) and a plus-32 rating.

He is averaging 1.5 points per game, tops among WHL defencemen.

Hay said Zellweger is comparable to Greg Hawgood, who recorded video-game numbers — 473 points in 310 games — while toiling for the Blazers from 1983 to 1988.

“It was a different era then,

but a guy who could really see the ice well and could run a power play,” said Hay, who runs the defence corps. “Olen is the same type of way. He sees the ice. He makes plays. He gets shots (297 this season, most among WHL defencemen). He’s not worried about making a mistake because he knows he’ll make up for it in a different way.”

Zellweger has punished his old team since making the move to Kamloops, racking up six points, including four goals, in three victories — 6-3, 7-1 and 6-3 — over Everett.

Olen Zellweger is a smooth-skating ball of competitive fire and is nearing the 30-goal mark. ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com See

RAIDERS SQUANDER LEAD

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Hail and snow blew in late in the second half and so did the Trinity Western University Spartans.

The Langley club and its young legs outlasted the older Kamloops Raiders and dotted down for two tries inside the last 10 minutes of the match to secure a 24-14 victory in men’s Division One B.C. Rugby Union action on Saturday at Hillside Stadium.

“Overall, I thought we did really well,” Kamloops standoff Chris Chan said. “We just lost our heads a bit toward the end and lost focus of what needed to be done.”

Both teams enjoyed stints of possession in the first half, but most of the first 25 minutes were contested in neutral territory, a slog taking place in windy, frigid conditions prior to the white stuff’s arrival.

Kamloops broke through first.

The Raiders won a lineout near the Spartans’ five-metre line and the ball filtered to the backs, with Chan popping a pass to streaking Dillon Alexandre, who rumbled in for a try.

“Oh, that was great,” Chan said. “It’s always fun playing with Dillon and crashes are our bread and butter.”

Prop Greg Thomson booted the conversion to put the Raiders up 7-0.

The try appeared to spur the Spartans, who marched down the field and answered through Favour Olaniyan, the sizeable forward who imposed his will to put the visitors on the scoreboard.

Brady Howlett stabbed at a conversion attempt that sailed wide and the Raiders carried a 7-5 lead into halftime.

Leo Chen and his 6-foot5 frame galavanted about 50 metres for a try to spark the Spartans early in the second half, the first of several costly Kamloops defensive breakdowns.

Howlett slotted the con-

version to put the Spartans up 12-7.

The Raiders punched back through Alexandre, who brought his team upfield with a knifing run and later capitalized on another Chan pop pass for his second try of the match.

“He runs on a nice, hard line,” Chan said of sturdy Alexandre.

Thomson converted to put Kamloops up 14-12 and within striking distance of a rare victory in a defeat-laden campaign.

“We kind of let it slide,” Chan said.

Fynn Murphy restored Trinity’s lead, darting by would-be Kamloops tacklers on another lengthy run that was poorly defended.

Howlett’s conversion made the score 19-14, with about five minutes remaining, the snap blizzard settling in and injured bodies dropping with the hail.

A last-gasp attempt from the Raiders produced an errant pass that was intercepted by Spartans’ winger Mark Abraham, who waltzed in for the coup de grâce.

“That’s been the story of our season so far,” Raiders’ head coach Derek Pue said. “We can string 60 minutes together and hang with anybody, but it seems to be we just get off task a little bit in the last 20.”

The Spartans improved to 4-8, while the Raiders dropped to 1-13.

Kamloops is slated to play host to the Bayside Sharks (6-1-5) of South Surrey in men’s first- and third-division play on Saturday, March 18, with match times slated for noon and 1:30 p.m., respectively, at Exhibition Park.

THE THIRDS

The Raiders pummelled the Meraloma Rogues 40-5 in men’s third-division play on Saturday, March 11.

Tyler Wood (2), Steve Campbell, Nat Watts, Micheal Dagasso (first try with the Raiders), Mike Adeboye and Joe Castellano scored tries for Kamloops (6-7). Wood made good on five conversion attempts. The Rogues dropped to 0-12 on the campaign.

THE WOMEN

In women’s Division 1 action, Jamie Dickinson, Lizzy Gotuaco, Aliyah Rodominski, Riley Halvorson and Jess Oldenburger had tries for Kamloops (1-2) in a 35-19 victory over Cowichan Rugby Football Club (2-2).

Longtime Raider Oldenburger booted five conversions.

Kamloops will play Castaway Wanderers (0-4) of Victoria on Saturday, March 18, in Abbotsford.

THE SMOKER

The Raiders are playing host to a fundraising smoker on Saturday, March 18, at their clubhouse in Exhibition Park.

Doors open at 6 p.m. for the event, with dinner from Valhalla Smokehouse to be served at 7 p.m.

Tickets are on sale for $60 and will cost $65 at the door.

Admission includes dinner, a drink and entry into a reverse draw, with a grand prize of $1,000.

For tickets, call Brit at 250-571-7339 or Charise at 778-257-3864.

Mitch Day keeps a Spartan at bay on Saturday at Hillside Stadium.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

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Zellweger dialled back intensity

From A28

“He’s a competitor,” said Silvertips’ head coach and general manager Dennis Williams, whose club drafted and developed the blue-chip prospect. “Loves to win. I’ve seen it for four years and coached him on the international stage, too. That’s what really separates him.”

Zellweger — whose Blazers have won 17 of their last 18 games — had to put a governor on his drive.

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“I honestly think I’ve dialled back my emotions compared to years in the past,” he said. “I wanted to win so badly it almost goes against what you’re trying to do out there. I’m trying to stay calm and compete really hard.”

Blazers’ fans have a few more months to watch a potential NHL superstar compete for a league title and major junior hockey’s greatest prize.

“We all want to win so badly,” Zellweger said. “We’ve all been preparing so hard for these opportunities.”

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Green belt Jagger Portelance, 9, won gold in sparring, plus bronze in forms/patterns, known as poomsae in Korean. It was his first tournament.

Riley Horsman, 12, who has a red belt with black stripe, won two bronze medals: one in forms and one in sparring. Riley is from Chilliwack originally and joined Master JEH’s Taekwondo in 2021 as Master

Jason Hockersmith’s first student in Kamloops.

Liam Molloy, 14, who also wears a red belt/blackstripe, took the silver medal in sparring. Liam moved to Kamloops from Quebec and joined JEH’s Taekwondo in 2021, the school’s second student.

“It was the first

tournament for us as a relatively new school,” said Hockersmith.

“Having three winners right off the bat is amazing. I was really impressed with how hard they trained and how much heart and perseverance they showed.”

Hockersmith, who has decades

of martial arts and military training under his belt, opened his dojang (training hall) in October 2021. He moved to larger premises in Valleyview in September 2022.

Some 700 participants from across Canada, plus Washington and Oregon states, competed in the 2023 B.C. Taekwondo Open and 2023 Colour Belt National Championships in Canada Place in downtown

Pincott on pins and needles

They witnessed the Sheriff take vengeance on Bottcher, whose posse shot down Dunstone and his Regina-based rink in the 2021 Brier semifinal.

KTW reached Dunstone’s girlfriend and two-time Scotties participant Erin Pincott minutes after Manitoba stole two in the 10th end to top Bottcher’s Wild Card 1 rink 7-5 in a semifinal showdown on Sunday morning.

“I’m still crying, so yeah, very emotional,” Pincott said. “Super happy for him, getting over

that semifinal. I talked to him last night and he was obviously a little down, so super proud of him for bouncing back. Sometimes, when he’s throwing his last rock or whatever, I can think of so many things I’d rather be doing because it’s so stressful. Like, why do we do this to ourselves? I’m super proud.”

Gushue and his cutthroat bunch will represent Canada next month in the World Men’s Curling Championship in Ottawa. Is there any doubt Dunstone will get there some day?

“Absolutely not,” Dean said. “I really believe he will. He’s always had that passion to go get it. I truly believe he will win one, for sure.”

“That’s a dad answer,” Matt said with a laugh.

Let’s hope Grandpa Jim is in the stands, seated and watching, if dad’s words prove harbingers of Sheriff’s gold.

“There’s absolutely no guarantees in sports, but I certainly love the trajectory this team is on,” Matt said. “With what we’ve shown, what we’ve proven, this team totally has what it takes to win, absolutely.”

From A27

Liam Molloy, 14, Riley Horsman, 12, and Jagger Portelance, 9, with instructor Jason Hockersmith.

Whundas win bronze

The Westsyde Whundas’ run for the BC Senior Boys 2A Provincial Basketball Championship ended with an 87-47 semifinal loss to top-ranked Brentwood College of Mill Bay on Vancouver Island on Friday night (March 10). Caleb Gremaud led Westsyde with 19 points, four rebounds and four steals.

However, the defending provincial champion Whundas, who entered this year’s provincial tourney in Langley as the No. 12 seed, finished third overall with a 100-89 victory over No. 6 John Barsby Bulldogs of Nanaimo.

Double duty for Orr

The TRU WolfPack revealed signing news this week.

Jocelyn Orr of Valleyview secondary will be the first member of the Pack to play two sports at the U Sports level when she joins the women’s basketball and soccer teams in time for the 2023-2024 campaigns.

“I was stunned,” Orr, whose older sister, Jessica, toils for the WolfPack women’s basketball team, told TRU Sports Information. “I wasn’t sure if I could do it, but I took some time to figure out if that’s what I want to do and, at the end of the day, I just want to go for it and see what happens.”

Meanwhile, WolfPack men’s soccer player Daniel Sagno has signed to play professionally in Australia for Glenorachy Knights FC.

Former WolfPack goalkeeper Jackson Gardner signed with the same club earlier this year.

The WolfPack won gold on home turf in November at the U Sports Men’s Soccer Championship.

RUN OFF RESULTS

The Kamloops Spring Run Off, an Interior Road Racing series event presented by Runners Sole and Cool Running, took place on Sunday, March 12.

Kelly Challinor of Kelowna won the women’s 10-kilometre event, posting a time of 37 minutes

and 22 seconds, with Kamloopsians Courtney Legroulx (41:34) and Rhonda Stickle (41:36) placing second and third, respectively.

Martin Hajek of Revelstoke finished atop the podium in the men’s 10km event, clocking in at 36:59. David Guss (37:43) of Kelowna and Gord Humphrey (37:55) of Kamloops earned silver and bronze, respectively.

The Ridge Runners will play host to the Blackwell Dairy Race on May 27, with a pancake breakfast provided by the Kamloops Paddlewheelers Lions Club.

ON THE ICE

Valleyview Skating Club athletes were in action this past weekend in Kelowna at the B.C./Yukon Super Series Starskate final.

Cassy Owens claimed a bronze ribbon in Star 1 freeskate action.

In Star 2, Mikylah Shipton, Emily Tokarek, Presley Hillis and Casey Kinna won silver ribbons and Nissi Choy, Charlene Zhang and Stella Severin earned bronze ribbons.

Tenley Mckim and Anne

Colver won silver ribbons in the Star 3 division.

In Group 1 Star 4 under13 action, Marti-Jayne Hillis placed eighth. In the Group 3 Star 4 U13 division, Mira Barbir was eighth and Lacey Tucker was ninth. In Group 5 Star 4 U13, Nina Wells placed eighth.

In the Star 4 over-13 category, Addison Creelman placed 10th in Group 1 and Desiree Rebinsky was ninth in Group 2.

Marti-Jayne Hillis was fifth, Sydnie Westran placed second, Lacey Tucker finished sixth, Brooklyn Leduc was third, Nina Wells placed fifth and Desiree Rebinsky finished ninth in their respective Star 5 artistic events.

In the Star 5 U13 division, Sydnie Westran and Brooklyn Leduc finished 14th and 22nd, respectively. In Star 5 13-and-over action, Claire Gagnon, Libby Tucker and Kathryn Held placed 11th, 28th and 29th, respectively.

In Star 7 artistic, Claire Gagnon placed ninth in Group 1 and Libby Tucker finished seventh in Group 2.

Brie Gibson finished seventh in the gold women’s division and 14th in Star 9 Group 2.

In Star 9 artistic, Kathryn Held was seventh.

Amanda Hess placed first in adult bronze artistic and second in adult bronze free skate.

Westsyde opened the tournament with a 76-69 win over the fifth-ranked Southridge Storm of Surrey and followed that up with a 60-45 victory over the fourth-ranked St. Thomas Aquinas Fighting Saints of North Vancouver before falling to Brentwood College.

In the 2A championship game, the No. 2-ranked King George Royals of Vancouver defeated No. 2 Brentwood 63-33.

Gremaud was named the tournament’s best defensive player and Jeremy McInnis was named a second-team all-star.

Meanwhile, two other teams from Kamloops were also at the B.C. Senior Boys Basketball Championships in Langley, with the South Kamloops Titans, who entered the 3A tournament

ranked 13th, finishing 12th.

The 3A final featured No. 2 Dover Bay of Nanaimo and No. 1 St. Patrick of Vancouver on Saturday night. St. Patrick won 91-80.

The St. Ann’s Crusaders entered the 1A tournament ranked ninth and finished 10th.

The 1A final featured No. 2 King David of Vancouver and No. 1 Unity Christian of Chilliwack on Saturday night. King David prevailed 72-68.

Daniel Sagno of the TRU WolfPack has signed to play professional soccer in Australia.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

MARY-BETH HARRISON

Human resources manager at New Gold 10K

There is something about Sunday mornings.

The bed is more comfortable than it has been all week, the dog is quietly snoring, dreams of fluffy waffles dance through my imagination — then the alarm goes off.

The Boogie training alarm at 6:30 a.m.

“I committed to Boogie. I did not skip wine on Saturday night for nothing,” is the message I repeat to myself as I get ready and head out the door to the Boogie training kickoff.

Inside the Sandman Signature Hotel is the most energy and red you have ever seen on a Sunday morning. The music is loud and the high-fives plentiful, the perfect way to bring energy to the day.

This is followed by an eight-kilometre run over the bridge and along Schubert Drive, watching small signs of spring awakening, chatting with other runners and getting training tips from the wonderful RunClub coaches, in between obligatory sweaty group selfies along the route that will inevitably end up on Facebook to haunt you forever.

In no time, the dread of heading out to a cold car to run around with strangers is a distant memory and smiles, high-fives and laughter can be seen and heard for kilometres stretching down Rivers Trail.

No one cares what you do, how flashy your outfit is or how fast your pace is — they are just happy to have someone there to encourage them on hard days and push them on rock star days. Looking forward to the next eight weeks!

NATHANIEL MARTIN

Millwright at Teck Highland Valley Copper 21K

Week 2 and what to do?

Well, first step, commit by jumping in and registering. I’ve already talked to union friends at Teck Highland Valley Copper, the new Boogie platinum sponsor, and they’re signing up under their USW team of 10 adults and 30 kids, sponsored by their United Steelworkers Union Local 7619.

It will be fun having some fellow copper miners in the midst of some gold miners.

Getting to the 21-kilometre half-marathon distance can be a challenge and is a huge milestone for some, which is why I’ve also been helping a few first-timers get there.

We jog together most Tuesday and Thursday nights. Hills and employ speed play or fartleks (even running terms can be fun). We then do long, slow distant runs with RunClub on Sunday mornings.

Though RunClub has started, it might not be too late to join in, plus there are other groups in Kamloops, such as the Ridge Runners.

I love helping others reach their goals. I don’t dance, but if you need a running partner, look me up. I’ve also seen improvements physically and mentally once I started doing those pesky core workouts, which are more fun as you get used to them.

Thanks, Anytime Fitness!

Plus, don’t forget to drink your water before, during and after your training sessions and find a good pair of runners.

Running start to finish with a smile is the goal and enjoying a guilt-free triple scoop of ice cream at Scoopz with friends and kids after Boogie is my end goal.

RUNCLUB PLAYWORK, WEEK 2

ACACIA PANGILINAN Executive director at Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce

5K

Week 1 of spring training is in the books and I’m excited to share my experience with you.

Getting back into running after a long hiatus is tough, but it felt really good to hit the pavement again.

The format of five minutes walking and one minute running helped me ease my way back into running.

What made the past week even better was the amazing group of people I met and others with whom I reconnected.

Everyone at RunClub is welcoming, supportive and just a ton of fun to be around. From the coaches to the RunClubbers to the newbies and everyone in between, I’m looking forward to training with, and learning from, such an awesome group.

Unfortunately, as luck would have it, I came down with a cold midway through the week and it really slowed me down. At first, I thought I was just really sore from the training or from my basketball or volleyball games, but I soon realized I was just plain sick.

I was a little frustrated initially, as I felt like I was just getting started, but that is just how it goes sometimes. For the remainder of the week, I focused on getting better — lots of fluids, vitamins and medicine to relieve my symptoms, coupled with rest.

The No. 1 tip we received in our spring training orientation is that the primary cause of injury is too much, too soon. So, I took the time to get better and am looking forward to getting back into it.

We did it!

Two big Boogie training kickoffs at the Sandman Signature Hotel. There were two full houses and it felt incredible to see so many smiling faces — and some scared, too. Most everyone is scared the first time they join RunClub.

Once Day 1 is over, they are wondering why they were ever afraid. Sunday/Tuesday was outstanding and kudos to everyone for getting there, which is the hardest part.

The Boogie training program works. There are a lot of different components that make you a runner. They are all important and, yes, there is a proper way to learn to run. The biggest mistake people make is going out too fast, too far and too much.

Running gets a bad rap because people start out incorrectly and make it hard on themselves. There truly is a way to do it properly, to make it easy and to have fun.

For some runners, walking feels like the enemy — a pace to avoid at all costs.

But for others, walking is not a weakness. Instead, it’s a huge strength, part of the plan and the ticket to running forever.

At RunClub, we all incorporate (and love) walk breaks, which prevent fatigue so you feel better during the run, recover more quickly and run faster at virtually every distance. At RunClub, running is 100 per cent about the forever line, not the finish line.

COOL DOWN Ten minutes walking, cool down and stretching

TIPS Proper, supportive shoes are important for your health. Visit a specialty running store for the proper shoe for your foot type and power walking.

minute. Repeat 6 times.

Total 36 minutes

Ten minutes walking, cool down and stretching

You did it! You started. The hardest part is having the courage to start and you did.

Congratulations!

1) Walk 2 minutes, run for 5 minutes. Repeat 6 times and add 10-minute walk. Total 52 minutes

2) Walk 2 minutes, run 5 minutes. Repeat 5 times and add 10-minute walk. Total 45 minutes

3) Walk 2 minutes, run 5 minutes. Repeat 6 times. Total 42 minutes

Ten minutes walking, cool down and stretching

Spring training has begun. Gentle reminder that it is the time on your feet that counts. Ease into your training.

1) Walk 2 minutes, run 8 minutes. Repeat 6 times.

Total 60 minutes

2) Walk 2 minutes, run 8 minutes. Repeat 5 times.

Total 50 minutes

3) Walk 2 minutes, run 8 minutes. Repeat 6 times.

Total 60 minutes

Ten minutes walking, cool down and stretching

You have run many 10Ks and are preparing for a strong 10K at Boogie the Bridge.

1) 10-kilometre run

2) Walk 2 minutes, run 8 minutes. Repeat 6 times.

Total 60 minutes

2) Walk 2 minutes, run 8 minutes. Repeat 7 times.

Total 70 minutes

Ten minutes walking, cool down and stretching

You have been running all winter and can run 16 kilometres easily. Boogie is only weeks away and we will be increasing the kilometres steadily.

There were a lot of new folks at the kickoff days, along with many RunClub veterans who have been running for years, injury-free.

For this runner, I have been injury-free for decades and I attribute this to walk breaks, along with a strong yoga practice and consistent mental fitness training. I love this lifestyle and am thrilled to be witness to the birth of new runners. Here they come!

Thousands of people have done the Boogie training and nothing lights me up more than seeing them running around Kamloops with friends and having the time of their lives. Cheers to more people realizing that Movement is Change.

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NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD ANSWERS FOUND ON A30

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to the peanuts.

ANSWER: BUTTER

We need you’re help to raise 1 Million for cardiac care at RIH & empowering local nursing students. For every thousand dollars contributed, you will be entitled to 2 DINNER TICKETS TO THE RED CARPET

GALA AT COLOMBO LODGE on Friday, April 28. Donate today! Tickets are limited. Tax recipient provided.

To Donate visit: iwishfund.com Email: iwishfund@gmail.com or Call 250-319-2074

FUN BY THE NUMBERS

Sudoku 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!

BABY BLUES by Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

So many things are moving your way, Aries As the week progresses, your energy level could rise and you will get much more done Leave time for meaningful encounters

Taurus, connect with nature this week Go hiking at a national park or visit a zoo and take in the exotic animals Fresh outdoor air is just what you need

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, this week marks a new cycle for you This means you should focus your energy on your ideas and tr y to narrow down prospects as much as possible

You may need a little inspiration to get moving this week, Cancer While it ’s alright to take it easy on Monday or Tuesday, by Wednesday you need to shake away what ’s holding you back

Your brain is filled with many thoughts, Leo With so much buzzing around in your head, it may be challenging to focus Consult with a friend to help you out

MARCH 15, 2023 - MARCH 21, 2023

People are drawn to you more so than usual, Libra All this newfound attention may feel a little over whelming Find some quiet time to ground yourself and refocus

Scorpio, you have many ideas for the future, but you need to get moving Is something or someone holding you back? Have an honest conversation about what you need

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 SAGITTARIUS

Virgo, enjoy the calm while you can because later in the week the pace may become frenzied Emotions may run high as ever yone is rushing around

Exercise caution when you speak about other people at work, Sagittarius Not everyone will share your views and you need to work peacefully with others

You may want to remain in an easygoing state, Capricorn, but others are not letting you just hang around You need to get some things accomplished this week

You may be feeling like you are moving a little slow, Aquarius But if you write down all you have gotten done, then you’re likely to discover you’ve been quite busy

Star ts: Sunday, March 5 - 8 AM | Tuesday, March 7 - 6 PM

Location: Sandman Signature Hotel

FOR MORE INFO (INCLUDING REGISTR ATION) EMAIL : INFO@RUNCLUB .CA OR MEMBERSHIP@RUNCLUB .CA • WEBSITE : WWW.RUNCLUB .CA A38 WEDNESDAY, March 15, 2023 www.kamloopsthisweek.com

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

2 0 2 3 B O O GIE TR AINING

Advertisements should be

Animals

The wor ld's lightest tr uly por table Mobilit y Scooter $2,000/obo 250-828-7978 GC Annual Family Facilit y Pass for YMCA $500 250-376-6607

Greeting cards made in England each cellophane wrapped 90 000 for $6,000/obo 250-376-6607

BUYING & SELLING: Vintage & mid-centur y metal, teak, wood fur niture; or iginal signed paintings pr ints; antique paper items, local histor y ephemera; BC potter y ceramics 4th Mer idian Ar t & Vintage, 104 1475 Fair view, Penticton Leanne@4thmer idian ca

Greeting cards made in England each cellophane wrapped 30,000 for $2 000/obo 250-376-6607

RUN UNTIL SOLD ONLY $35 00 (plus Tax) for 3 lines each additional line $10 00 (250) 371-4949

*some restr ictions apply call for details

Black powder cannon $200/obo 236-421-1229

Antique Duncan Phyfe table, extra leaf, buffet, hutch and 4 chairs Exec cond $600 778-2577155

2004 GMC 3/4T HD New brakes, good tires $6,000/ obo 250-320-7774

Fuel tanks - 1-300 gal and 2-100gal on stands $300 250-672-9712 or 250-8199712

Moder n solid oak diningroom table with 6 chairs Great shape $695 250-851-1193

DoddsAUCTION AUC TION

WAREHOUSER LIEN SALE

JAXSEN-PACIFIC

MARINE AND MOTORSPORT LTD

jaxsen-pacific@outlook com

Pursuant to a Warehouser Lein Act of the Government of British Columbia Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd will be selling by tender for the fees of Wes Reusse in the following goods:

1981 24’ Bayliner Swifter Boat w/ U built Trailer Sterndrive Volvo 290 855686VP

To obtain further information contact

Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd at 236-421-2666

Sale is subject to cancellation or adjournment without notice Sale will take place at JaxsenPacific Marine and Motorsport at 755 Fortune Drive, Kamloops BC V2B2L3 no earlier than March 29 , 2023 Goods are sold on an “as is where is” basis with no warranty given or implied

The highest or any bid may not necessarily be accepted Bidder takes responsibility to ensure they are satisfied with the description of unit/goods being sold as well as transportation to have goods moved from the sale location Terms of sale: Immediate full payment upon successful bid, plus applicable taxes.

Kamloops Office

Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd

236-421-2666

TKEML ÚPS te SECWÉPEMC

Lands, Leasing, & Tax Department

234-345 Chief Alex Thomas Way, Kamloops, BC V2H 1H1 250-828-9784

NOTICE OF PROPOSED LOCAL REVENUE LAWS AND INVITATION TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONS

THIS NOTICE is given pursuant to section 6 of the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (the “FMA”)

The Tkemlúps Secwépemc (the “First Nation”) proposes to enact the Tkemlúps te Secwépemc Property Assessment Law 2023 and the Tkemlúps te Secwépemc Property Taxation Law 2023 (together, the “Proposed Laws”) and repeal the Kamloops Indian Band Property Assessment Law 2008, as amended and the Kamloops Indian Band Property Taxation Law 2008 , as amended

DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED LAWS: The Proposed Laws are a property assessment law made under the authority of section 5(1)(a)(i) of the FMA, and a property taxation law made under the general authority of section 5(1)(a) of the FMA The property assessment law provides for the assessment and valuation of interests in land in the First Nation’s reserve lands, and includes provisions for appointing assessors, inspecting property, preparing assessment rolls, and mailing assessment notices This law includes a process for reconsideration of assessments and for a right of appeal to an assessment review board The property taxation law establishes a taxation regime that taxes interests in land in the First Nation's reserve, and includes provisions for exemptions, grants, preparing tax rolls and tax notices, the levy of penalties and interest on unpaid taxes, and the collection and enforcement of unpaid taxes

A COPY OF THE PROPOSED LAWS may be obtained at the address set out below

WRITTEN REPRESENTATIONS: The Council of the First Nation invites written representations regarding the Proposed Laws If you wish to make a written representation, your written representation must be received by the First Nation at the address set out below on or before 4:00 pm on Friday, April 17, 2023. Council will consider all written representations received in accordance with this Notice before enacting the Proposed Laws

ADDRESS AND CONTACT PERSON: For further information or questions regarding the Proposed Laws or this Notice please contact: Tax Administrator at #234-345 Chief Alex Thomas Way, Kamloops BC, V2H 1H1, by telephone at (250) 828-9784 or by email at taxation@ttes.ca

If you wish to speak with the Tax Administrator in person, please contact Reception at 250-8289784 in advance to schedule an appointment

Dated: March 14, 2023

PARCEL TAX ROLL REVIEW PANEL

In accordance with Section 204 of the Community Charter, a sitting of the Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel will take place on March 27, 2023 commencing at 9:00 a m , in the Council Chambers, 1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake, BC, to hear any complaints with respect to errors or omissions on the Parcel Tax Roll

The Parcel Tax is utilized to provide a Grant-In-Aid to the Logan Lake TV Society for the operation and maintenance of the Television Rebroadcasting System in Logan Lake

This Parcel Tax is available for inspection from the Director of Finance at Municipal Hall (1 Opal Drive) during regular office hours of 8:30 a m to 4:00 p m Monday to Friday

A complaint shall not be heard by the Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel unless written notice of the complaint has been given to the municipality at least 48 hours before the time set for the first sitting of the Review Panel

Colin Forsyth Director of Finance

REPAIRERS LIEN SALE

JAXSEN-PACIFIC MARINE AND MOTORSPORT LTD

jaxsen-pacific@outlook com

Pursuant to a Repairers Lein Act of the Government of British Columbia Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd will be selling by tender for the fees of Chris Loewen in the following goods: 1978 Bayliner Hull ID: BLBE76VU12778

80Hp Mercury Outboard S/N:7189053

To obtain further information contact Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd at 236-421-2666

Sale is subject to cancellation or adjournment without notice Sale will take place at JaxsenPacific Marine and Motorsport at 755 Fortune Drive, Kamloops BC V2B2L3 no earlier than March 22 , 2023 Goods are sold on an “as is where is” basis with no warranty given or implied

The highest or any bid may not necessarily be accepted Bidder takes responsibility to ensure they are satisfied with the description of unit/goods being sold as well as transportation to have goods moved from the sale location Terms of sale: Immediate full payment upon successful bid, plus applicable taxes.

Kamloops Office Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd 236-421-2666

Notice of Estate

M

E R R I T W I L L I A M S M I T H

Delta Law Office is requesting information to assist in locating Alex Smith Alex was last known to be residing in Kamloops. Anyone with information on the current circumstances of Alex Smith please contact Natalie Gray at natalie@deltalawoffice.com or 604-943-8272

Woodlot 1599 has a proposed Woodlot Licence Plan amendment available for review and input until April 5, 2023 Please contact Judy Thomas, RPF at jthomas13@ shaw ca or 250-960-9501 to obtain a copy or provide input

Woodlot 1599 approximately 48 km NE of Kamloops is north of Red Lake and was burnt in the 2021 Sparks Lake fire

The amendment proposes changes to the visual quality objectives, stocking standards and meets objectives for the Deadman Creek Fisheries Sensitive Watershed.

By the vir tue of the Warehouse's Lien Act, contents left belonging to: Cour tnay Bent Michael Campbell Gideon Bellrose/Ver n Whitely and David Ackroyd The goods will be sold on or after April 5, 2023 Central Storage Ltd 1236 Salish Road, Kamloops BC V2H 1K1

WAREHOUSER

LIEN SALE JAXSEN-PACIFIC

MARINE AND MOTORSPORT LTD jaxsen-pacific@outlook com

Pursuant to a Warehouse Lein Act of the Government of British Columbia Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd will be selling by tender for the fees of Gary Demchuk in the following goods:

2019 Ford F150 Crew Cab VIN:1FTFW1E41KFC32648

1999 Bigfoot B27 Travel Trailer VIN: 2GVI24027YS010090

To obtain further information contact Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd at 236-421-2666

Sale is subject to cancellation or adjournment without notice Sale will take place at JaxsenPacific Marine and Motorsport at 755 Fortune Drive, Kamloops BC V2B2L3 no earlier than March 21, 2023 Goods are sold on an “as is where is” basis with no warranty given or implied The highest or any bid may not necessarily be accepted Bidder takes responsibility to ensure they are satisfied with the description of unit/goods being sold as well as transportation to have goods moved from the sale location Terms of sale: Immediate full payment upon successful bid, plus applicable taxes.

Kamloops Office

Jaxsen-Pacific Motorsports Ltd 236-421-2666

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice is hereby given to Gardner Mar tin Stewar t, please be advised that your Bur nt 2019 Land Rover VIN SALYB2FV3K A232559 located at 1350 Kootenay Way, Kamloops, BC will be sold to cover debt of $10,185 00 on March 29, 2023, at 9:00 am Kamloops Auto Recycling Ltd

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice is hereby given to Sealy Clint, please be advised that your 1998 Eagle Talon VIN

4E3AK44Y2WE045466 located at 1350 Kootenay Way, Kamloops, BC will be sold to cover debt of $1445 50 on March 29, 2023, at 9:00 am

Kamloops Auto Recycling Ltd

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice is hereby given to Machelle Ivan, please be advised that your 2005 Chevy Tahoe VIN 1GNEC13Z05R244545 located at 1350 Kootenay Way, Kamloops, BC will be sold to cover debt of $3329 00 on March 29, 2023, at 9:00 am Kamloops Auto Recycling Ltd

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice is hereby given to Redekop Donna, please be advised that your 2012 Kia Spor tage VIN

KNDPCCA20C7218457 located at 1350 Kootenay Way, Kamloops, BC will be sold to cover debt of $2280 00 on Mar 29 2023, at 9:00 am Kamloops Auto Recycling Ltd

Now Hiring for Award Winning Team

Job Title: Client Service Associate

Full time: 37.5 hours a week plus benefits

Company Overview:

At TD Wealth Private Investment Advice (PIA), we serve a limited number of affluent families in Wealth Management to meet their goals We typically review all aspects of their finance: banking, lending, investing, tax, estate planning, insurance and retirement planning. PIA is a division of TD Bank which has won many awards and recently named as one of the World’s best Employers 2021 by Forbes

• Do you enjoy helping others?

• Are you admired for your attention to detail?

• Do you provide the highest level of customer service?

• Would you like competitive compensation with bonuses ?

• Monday to Friday schedule with flexibility to balance work and life?

Job Description:

• A client facing role where your first impressions leave lasting results on our customers

• Provide diverse administrative support to a team of advisors

• Scheduling appointments and manage team calendars

• Open new accounts, prepare documentation and reports for client meetings

• Maintain marketing materials: newspaper, LinkedIn, website, etc

• Manage and coordinate client events

• Ensure office supplies and equipment are maintained

• Be well organized, prioritize multiple deadlines and execute with accuracy

• Correspond & collaborate with various TD Bank business units and staff

• Use insights to continually improve individual and team performance for clients

• Keep others informed and up to date about status and progress of activities

• Proficient with Microsoft Office: Word, Excel & Outlook

If you would like to build your career and be compensated well while doing meaningful work, please reach out!

Eric.Davis@td.com

TD Wealth Private Investment Advice daviswealth.ca

COTTONWOOD MANOR

(144-unit seniors apartment building on North Shore) needs a

TEMPORARY FULL-TIME MAINTENANCE PERSON to cover a leave of absence.

Position could become permanent.

Duties include doing routine checks, preventive maintenance and minor repairs; janitorial work such as mopping floors and cleaning washrooms; looking after plumbing problems such as leaking taps, unclogging and replacing toilets; putting out City of Kamloops bins for garbage and recycling pickup; keeping building and grounds clean and tidy; small electrical repairs and suite renovations; snow removal with shovel, snowblower and tractor; and miscellaneous other duties A criminal record check is required

Please send resume to #307 – 730 Cottonwood Avenue, Kamloops, BC V2B 8M6 or email to info@cottonwoodmanor.ca

FOOD SERVICE OPPORTUNITY

The NICOLA VALLEY RODEO ASSOCIATION (NVRA) is seeking a catering and/or food service business to operate the food concession for the 2023 season at the Merritt rodeo grounds

The concession holds a Food Premise permit and was renovated in 2019 with updated equipment and finishes. The successful applicant must be able to commit to provide services when required at all (currently 6 – 8) scheduled events for 2023, including the Labour Day Weekend Pro Rodeo and demonstrate an ability to provide a variety of menu items at reasonable prices. Attention to prompt service and compliance with health legislation is essential, including the requirements for a temporary food permit https://www.interiorhealth ca/YourEnvironment/FoodSafety/Pages/Permits

Mustang Powder Caretaker

Nor th of Sicamous

Caretaker needed for remote ski lodge north of Sicamous Late April to October

Two weeks in; 2 weeks out General handyperson skills an asset Best suits a retired person or couple Interested persons should contact: nick@mustangpowder.com www.mustangpowder.com

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

While we tr y to ensure all adver tisements appearing in Kamloops This Week are placed by reputable businesses with legitimate offers, we do caution our readers to under take due diligence when answering any adver tisement par ticularly when the adver tiser is asking for monies up front

Thank You

by Charles L. Mashburn

There are simply not enough words to fully express our

In Loving Memory of Moya June Mckague

June 10, 1939 - March 19, 2022

It seems like just yesterday that you were here, sitting and laughing, a life filled with cheer. But Mom, it’s been a year, that you’re not here, just memories of times with you and a few tears. Tears filled with Love and Laughter, you’ll be here with us forever after. Mom, see you on the other side. Love you, miss you your Family xoxo

Kerry David Hilliard

February 24, 1955 - February 28, 2023

Kerry held a variety of jobs including Weyerhaeuser Pulp Mill in Kamloops where he became a steam engineer before moving to Vancouver In Vancouver he worked at the Vancouver International Airport, Oxford Properties, Sinclair Centre, Remax (in Langley) and then the Bentall Centre before retiring.

If tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane We would walk right up to Heaven and bring you back again.

Kerry David Hilliard passed away peacefully February 28, 2023 surrounded by loved ones. Kerry was born at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops on February 24, 1955. The second of three sons born to George and Wilma Hilliard, Kerry attended Brocklehurst Elementary School and then Brock Junior Secondary School before graduating from NorKam Senior Secondary School.

Kerry was always involved in sports during his school days and pursued many different hobbies over the years including skiing, biking, and motorcycle riding. Kerry also enjoyed reading historical non-fiction and building model airplanes. He rarely missed an episode of Jeopardy and rarely missed answering correctly! Kerry also loved holidaying in the sunshine. He most loved going to Melaque, Mexico and joking over cervezas with his wife Anna, with whom he shared his incredible wit.

Kerry was predeceased by his parents George David and Wilma Ross Hilliard and his older brother Clinton Ross Hilliard. Kerry is survived by his wife Anna and her children Carla (Marcel) and Richard (Malonie), brother Neil (Audrey), daughter Kari-Lynn (Fraser), nieces Sara Kathryn (Rob) and Amy Wilma (Lee), and grandchildren Hannah and Tanner Kerry is loved - and he is missed dearly

Mom

Verna Zawaduk

Born April 22nd, 1936 in Bowman Township, Ontario, Verna was the fourth of seven children to Annie (d. 1999) and Clarence Wood (d. 1964). She was predeceased by her husband of 66 years (m 1955) Anthony Metro Zawaduk (d. 2022), her sons Mitchell Rae (d. 1993) and Michael Anthony (d. 2015), her daughter-in-law Kristine Leigh (d. 2013), her brother Edgar (d. 2006), her sister Beulah (d. 1997), and her brother Dennis (d. 2022). Verna is survived by her daughter Cheryl Ann (Jim Manson), her three cherished grandchildren Zakary Zawaduk, Michaela Manson, Alysha Zawaduk, her loving siblings Margaret (Robert d. 2007), Marilyn (Don), Earnest (Ernestine) and her many nieces and nephews.

Verna moved with her family to Delta, British Columbia in 1942. She was an excellent student, graduating from Princess Elizabeth High School. She subsequently studied X-ray technology, a field in which she worked up to the 1970s. Verna married her life partner Anthony in 1955 with whom she had three children. Their family was supported by strong connections with her neighbouring extended family In 1970 she moved to Kamloops. There, she and Tony began an excavation business while she also worked part-time at Tranquille Residential Care. Later that decade, they moved to Knutsford where she and Tony lived until 2021. Knutsford was her special home, a place where she felt part of a supportive community Verna was the ever present in-home office support until the birth of her grandchildren. Then, she handed over the small business responsibilities to become a dedicated grandmother and world traveller She made many lifelong friends wherever she went.

Verna leaves a legacy of love and friendship. She was a good person, a loving wife, a dedicated daughter and mother, a working woman, a doting grandmother, a loyal sister, a caring aunt, and a fun-loving, confidence-keeping, reliable friend. She will be remembered for her kindness and generosity, great cooking and baking, sense of humour, commitment to family, world travels, skill in stained glass, love for reading and word games, as well as her belief in the importance of education and economic independence of women. Despite premature losses of close loved ones, she continued to experience and give joy to others. She had a special way of lifting people up, making them feel welcome, and bringing people together Many experienced her loving and caring ways. She created a home for those that needed one.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Kamloops Seniors Village for their assisted living support that allowed Verna to experience independence in her final days.

A Celebration of her life will be held Saturday, March 18th at Schoenings Funeral Home. Kamloop, BC at 11:00 am. Interment to be held at 1:00 pm at Hillside Cemetery

In lieu of flowers consider a donation to the Canadian Red Cross https://www.redcross.ca/donate/appeal/donate-to-the-canadian-red-cross-fund

Livestream Link - https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/70487

Password - 341801005225

Jason Tyler "JT" Jack

Jason Tyler "JT" Jack, 44, of Kamloops, BC, died in his sleep on February 24, 2023 from undiagnosed dilated cardiomyopathy, a form of congestive heart failure. Jason was born April 7, 1978 in Vernon, BC, the son of Dr Kenneth Douglas Jack and Cecelia M. 'Didi' Jack.

JT attended Kamloops schools and was a member of the Class of 1996 at Kamloops Senior Secondary

Jason is survived by his loved one, Raylene Donald, of Kamloops, and her children Taylor and Riley He is also survived by his mother Cecelia M. Lewis of Oliver, BC, and his older brother Travis McLean Jack, of Kamloops. He was predeceased by his father K. Douglas Jack, of Kamloops, in 2018. He leaves an uncle, two aunts, and four cousins in the U.S. A. and Germany

JT loved living and working on the ranch on Barnhartvale Road which their father bequeathed to his sons. He had a small house which he renovated and built from the old 'pony barn', where his childhood ponies used to live. He used it first as a guitar studio, then it became a cozy home with a view of the hayfields and the lake, where he and Raylene lived for the past several years. He found love and happiness with her and enjoyed time spent with her children.

He often joked that he was "a farmer outstanding in his field", when asked how the haying was going. He watched the weather and took pride in good hay Music was a big part of his life. JT played piano as a child, and then became a very good guitar player who enjoyed playing in a band or just jamming with friends. His old cat, 'Turkey' would strum the guitar strings while JT played the chords. He also wrote some good songs, one of his best which was recorded was called, ironically, "Untimely". He enjoyed snowboarding, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, reading, cooking, and gardening. He had a good eye for photography Jason loved all animals and wildlife, even when they ate his garden. Repairing and tinkering with machinery, vehicles, and vintage items was a favourite pastime for him. He could fix or invent anything.

JT was outgoing, humorous, kind, calm, good-natured, and had many, many friends. He and his Mum loved exchanging funny songs, memes, jokes and recipes. He was a good listener and non-judgmental, and was always ready to lend a hand to someone in need. He hated confrontations and often stepped in to defuse an argument or to get people to see the humour in the situation. Jason loved spending time with friends but preferred small gatherings to large ones. He wanted to enjoy a quiet, peaceful, happy life.

Though he left this world too soon, he left this world a better place.

A Celebration of Life will be announced and held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, the BC SPCA, or a charity of your choice.

Love’s greatest gift is remembrance.

Kathleen "Kay" Dodds

December 10, 1925 - February 2, 2023

Born December 10th, 1925, our beautiful Mom's life story has come to its conclusion. She passed peacefully with her loving daughter holding her hand. Mom was old-school gracious, a fashionista; beautifully dressed, weekly hair appointments, and pedicures. She was feisty, hardworking, independent, stubborn-as-a-mule, very generous, and humorous. Her spirit and love will be forever missed by everyone she met, whose lives she inevitably touched.

Her legacy lives on through her six children: Karen, Frances, Marguerite (Mel), Ruth, Kathryn, Mathew (Michele), and her eight grandchildren: Deven (Brendan), Dillon, Colton, Bren (Jake) Hogan (Andrea), Olivia (Kenan), Luke (Allison) Kyle, and two great-grandchildren: Wyatt and Everly and two cousins Elizabeth DeWalt and David Ambrock. Our families were enriched by a blended makeup and left to cherish their memories of Mom are Grandpa Rein, Frances's ex-husband Doug (Beverly, Linden), Debbie (Richard, Roz), Donna (Duff, Lizzy, Max).

Mom's adopted sons Alan and Max had a long-cherished relationship with her We thank you for all the love you gave to Mom. She was incredibly proud of grand kids and their chosen professions.

Mom wore many hats, She was in sales (The Bay), manager of a KFC, a pharmacist assistant, an admission clerk at RIH (and continued to plan yearly luncheons for the retired clerks until COVID hit). She loved you girls! She tried to retire but managed the Sage Brush theater ’s ushers and concessions for 8 years. She loved the arts, plays and the symphony As things slowed down, she continued volunteering for Kibbitz and serving the less fortunate meals at the Mustard Seed well into her 80's. She loved Music in the Park and a bench in her memory is planned for this summer

Mom was a cancer survivor, diagnosed in 2011. She underwent surgery and treatments in March 2011. Was in remission for the remainder of her life.

We had an amazing garden and Mom would can, freeze and preserve for the coming long Alberta winters. She loved flowers and her balcony was overflowing with her favourites and a few herbs. She was a foodie and an amazing baker Every special occasion was a themed cake.

An accomplished seamstress and hat maker, knitter She sewed her girls matching velveteen jumpers for Christmas and our Halloween costumes.

A sk DR AK E

Arthritis in her hands slowed down her knitting so she took up hooking at 93, donating hundreds of toques to shelters. Mom was an adventurous spirit and loved travel and road trips. She travelled to Alaska, Europe, Egypt, Israel, Mexico, U.S. (incl. Hawaii).

A lover of all animals (especially horses), she attended the Spruce Meadows Masters yearly and was thrilled meeting Ian Miller and Eric Lamaze. She always had apples in her car (25 years) and the horses knew Granny's car by sight and would come to greet her

Mom loved camping and we’d pile in the station wagon and drive from Edmonton to the Okanagan for our summers. We moved to Kamloops in 1973, living and camping for that summer at Paul Lake until our house was built. Mom loved her sports. Football, the Blue Jays and hockey For fun she enjoyed visiting casinos and travelling to visit her granddaughter Deven in Victoria.

Mom always had the time to listen and advise or encourage us to live our best lives. She had a heart of gold and a gentle soul. Our love to our beautiful Mom, forever and ever

A small excerpt taken from one of Mom's favourite poems by Norma Cornett Marek.

Tomorrow is not promised to anyone Young or old alike and Today may be the last chance You get to hold your loved one tight.

So hold your loved ones close today And whisper in their ear Tell them how much you love them And that you'll always hold them dear

Many thanks to the wonderful nurses and staff at 6 North RIH as well as Ponderosa Interior Health (Jenn, Sarah, Cheryl) and wonderful neighbor June.

A small memorial service will be held at a later date.

Condolences can be sent to family at: obituary@drakecremation.com

A donation to the SPCA in her name would be appreciated.

Drake Smith, MSW Funeral Director

Ever y Wednesday in K T W!

Q. Would you mind holding on to Murray’s ashes for…ever?

A Some people can’t wait to pick up Mur ray ’ s ur n. Others , not so much. T he law says we need to hold them at no charge for 60 days if you wish. After that there’s a fee. Unclaimed a shes can be respectf ully disposed of one year after cremation.

GIVE LAVISHLY LIVE ABUNDANTLY

By Helen Steiner Rice

The more you give, The more you get, The more you laugh, The less you fret, The more you do unselfishly, The more you live abundantly, The more of everything you share, The more you’ll always have to spare, The more you love, The more you’ll find, That life is good, And friends are kind, For only what we give away, Enriches us from day to day.

As you share the stories and the memories of how they lived their lives and how very much they meant, may you find comfort...

Clarence Remco Schneider 1949 - 2023

Clarence Remco Schneider passed away at his residence in Kamloops on February 23, 2023, at the age of 74. Clarence was born in Kamloops on January 18, 1949 and grew up on the family farm near Salmon Arm. Predeceased by both parents, Hank and Aaltje Schneider, Clarence is survived by his brother Henry (Susan) and his niece Teena, as well as many relatives in BC and Holland.

Clarence attended a one-room school in Deep Creek (near Salmon Arm) from grade 1 – 6, and then transferred to school in Salmon Arm, where he often knew more military history than his teachers, and often corrected the history teacher at times. Before retiring in Kamloops, Clarence worked most of his life for BC Forest Services, which took him to Burns Lake, Prince George (where he completed Forestry Technician Studies), Lower Post and finally Hazelton.

Those who knew Clarence appreciated his deep convictions, his love for Canada, and his passion for history, especially military history Clarence had a keen interest in sports, especially hockey and baseball (KBIT); he was a season ticket holder and avid supporter of the Blazers, attending all their games, and was an active member of the Blazers Booster Club.

Being a volunteer and giving back to the community was one of the distinctions that characterized Clarence. He was a 50-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion and served in many capacities including as President (Hazelton) and, for many years, as a director and secretary at Kamloops Legion. Over the years, he participated selflessly, and attended Branch, Zone, Provincial, and National meetings.

Clarence was an avid reader and collected books on Canadian history, as well as loving trains. In July 2022, Clarence was able to take the cruise to Alaska with friends and complete one of his life-long goals when he rode the White Pass train out of Skagway Over the years, Clarence enjoyed many trips to Europe with family and friends, and visited Canadian war memorials, and maintained strong connections with his relatives living in Holland.

Clarence was a man of strong opinions, a man with a big heart who believed in family, friendship, and community service. He will be greatly missed by his family, and his many friends who remained close to his heart over his lifetime.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2023, beginning at 10:30 am, at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 52 in Kamloops BC. Everyone is welcome to attend to share stories and together pay tribute to Clarence.

Lois McInnis (née Janning)

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Lois McInnis (née Janning) on February 27th, 2023 at the age of 68.

Lois is predeceased by her loving husband Glen and parents June and Hubert Janning. She will be missed by her siblings

Diane (Brian) Turner, Bruce (Denice) Janning, Donna Janning, Debbie (Drew deceased) Janning-Stewart and Patty (Rick) Bruce. Also left to cherish her memory are nieces and nephews Jessica, Alex, Luke, Tyrel, Dayton, Serene, Travis, Eric, great nephews Linden and Jaxon and great niece Aila, the McInnis family and many extended family and friends.

Lois was a dedicated teacher within the Kamloops school district for over 32 years. She enjoyed supporting her students outside the classroom often cheering them on at their curling, basketball, hockey and lacrosse games and could always be counted on to coach various teams or chaperone a class or group outing.

Lois moved to the family farm located in Darfield in 2012 after she retired from teaching. She spent her retirement curling, travelling, family road trips that always included picnics and complained about her golf game weekly with the Chinook Cove Ladies league. Lois volunteered for several community organizations and boards.

We would like to thank the caring and compassionate health care workers including Dr O’Connell, Dr Pwint at the Cancer Clinic, the staff at Barriere Home Services and the staff and volunteers at Marjorie Willoughby Hospice.

A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 8th, 2023 from 2:00 – 5:30 pm at Mt. Paul Golf Course, 614 Mt Paul Way, Kamloops, BC.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Marjorie Willoughby Hospice or charity of your choice.

Robert Edgar Gerald Caines

1941 - 2023

Our beloved father, Bob Caines, passed away unexpectedly in his home on February 27, 2023. He leaves to mourn his son Shawn Caines, daughters Shana Parker (Andrew) and Sara Caines, grandson Hayden Parker, sister-in-law Fredris Caines and his extended family in NFLD, sisters–in–law Linda Hunt (Noel), Karen Giddings (Randy), Christina Laursen (Murray), Lisa Dohnalek (Bob) and Sonya Smoley (Joe); brother-in-law Christian (Robbin). He was predeceased by his wife and best friend - Ingrid “Angel” and two infant children Dana and Ian, his parents Eric & Evelyn Caines, and his brother Stan Caines.

Bob loved growing up in St. John’s, NFLD with his close group of friends and family His family started a local icon “Caines Grocery & Confectionary” on Duckworth Street which they ran for generations. He had fond memories of going to regattas and hanging out with the boys in his neighbourhood. He completed his high school studies at Bishops College and then went on to earn his bachelor ’s degree at Memorial University and his masters in engineering at Queen’s University

Bob had a long and distinguished career in the mining industry starting in Labrador City, NFLD, with stops in Edmonton and Grand Cache, AB, Cleveland, OH, and Hinton, AB. He then retired after a position with Highland Valley Copper in Kamloops, BC. He made lifelong friendships throughout his career but also in his passions outside of work. He was an avid fisherman and golfer with stories that have been shared many times. He was a talented woodworker, creating many wonderful pieces of furniture for family and friends alike. Bob was known to his many friends and family as a generous, thoughtful man, always with his cheeky smile and laugh. He enjoyed finding a deal, usually at garage sales and the thrill of finding just the right thing to help someone or bring a smile to their face. One highlight for Bob was in the summer of 2006 when he and Ingrid completed a cross country RV trip. They visited old friends all across Canada and stopped in numerous places as they went. To our dad’s delight they spent a considerable amount of the time criss-crossing his home province of Newfoundland which he had never really explored until that time.

His family would like to extend a special thanks to his physicians Dr Johan Van Heerden, Dr Kristine McDonald, as well as his “guardian angel” Tara Denton who had given him such loving care and attention.

He leaves his love behind to fill the space in our hearts. We take comfort that he is now reunited with his Angel.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at kamloops@cypressfuneral.ca

Arrangements entrusted to

Judith Sylvia Zelensky (née Maki)

Judith Sylvia Zelensky (née Maki) was born in Cranbrook, BC February 3rd, 1947 to John and Helen Maki. She passed away peacefully with family by her side on March 2nd, 2023 at the Brooks Health Centre at the age of 76. In her early years Judy's family moved frequently around BC and eventually settled in Kamloops. Judy attended elementary and high school in Kamloops and graduated in the early 60s from Kam High.

Her early experience of frequent moves carried into her adult years. Her thirst for discovery and curiosity brought her to cross Canada numerous time as a young adult.

Judy met Daniel Zelensky while working at the Brooks Horticultural Station AB.

Judy was a wonderful mother to her daughter Heather who was born shortly after they were married; their son Carl was born a few years later

Judy was a special person who always had a gentle greeting. She will be deeply missed by family and those who knew her She is predeceased by her parents John and Helen Maki, brother John Maki Jr and sister Carol Bianchin. She is survived by her husband Daniel, daughter Heather (Brennan), son Carl (Amanda), grandchildren (Everett, Chloe, Abigail and Gracie) and sisters June Lohnes and Norah Albiston.

www.thomsfuneralhome.com

Hearle Hazel Vreeland

September 7, 1923 - January 31, 2023

Mother has gone home to be with Jesus. She was ready Mother passed away peacefully at Royal Inland Hospital on January 31st at age 99.

She was a strong, independent woman and with determination and grace lived a full life. She spent many winters in Yuma, Arizona and for the past 19 years, resided at Berwick on the Park. Our family thanks Bev and the staff at Berwick for the care and support they provided over the many years.

Hearle was predeceased by her husband Bod in 1993, her parents, brother Clifford Anderson, and her great-grandson Joey Vreeland. Hearle is survived by her children Roberta Harding (Bob), Cheryl Grant (Roy), Trevor Vreeland (Jan), numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and greatgreat-grandchildren, her sisters Lois (Henry) Unrea and Darlene (Wally) Massey, and many nieces and nephews.

No public service by request.

Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com

A Celebration of Life for Richard Blair

A Celebration of Life for Richard Blair will be held on Sunday, April 2nd from 1:00 – 3:00 pm in the Mountain View Room (3rd floor) in the Campus Activity Centre at the Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops.

There will be free parking in lot H, which is to the north of the CAC, with a short walk to the building.

Annette Dorothy May Blackstock

Annette Dorothy May Blackstock (née Walker) was born on September 8, 1933, in Charlottetown, PEI. On February 21, 2023 Annette peacefully and gracefully slipped away in Kamloops, BC.

Having spent her childhood in Charlottetown, Victoria, Chilliwack, and Cultus Lake, Annette graduated from Chilliwack Senior High School in 1953. She completed Psychiatric Nurse training at Essondale Hospital in 1956. When Annette met Stan Blackstock it was love at 1st sight, followed by 67 years of marriage (minus 4 days), 3 children, 12 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren with a 4th on the way Together they built their house in Coquitlam where they lived for 39 years. Upon Stan’s retirement they began building their house in Savona. Savona became their full-time home in 1997.

Annette enjoyed the company of friends while card-making, crafting, and playing cards. She belonged to Savona’s Book Club, Weight Loss, Heritage, Garden Club, Seniors Centre, and Ladies Lunch Group. She was involved with the Christmas Train committee, fundraising dinners, and other community events as they arose. She was also a longstanding member of the Kamloops’ PEO (Professional Employer Organization).

Annette was a curious and youthful spirit. She was an avid, competitive sportswoman. She sang with the Sweet Adelines for 16 years. Her flower and vegetable gardens were a source of pride. She was a beautiful swimmer whose ability to float with her feet in the air for hours was truly amazing.

Annette was a dedicated animal lover After Annette’s retirement, she and Stan took many holidays by boat and plane. One of Annette’s enduring quirks was her unexplained fondness for ornamental cows and lava rocks. She was artistic, creating gifts and cards to ensure her family and friends knew the depth of her love. Annette’s playful and caring nature was felt by all. She was a kind and loving person who always saw the best in everyone.

Annette’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Savona’s Community Hall. Reception to follow Please bring your bathing suit, perhaps a purple one.

I’m Glad I Touched Shoulders With You

From Bob White’s Scrapbook

There’s a comforting thought at the close of the day When I’m weary and lonely and sad That sort of grips hold of this crusty old heart And bids it be merry and glad. It gets in my soul, and it drives out the blues, And finally thrills through and through. It’s just a sweet memory that chants the refrain, “I’m glad I touched shoulders with you.”

Did you know you were brave, Did you know you were strong, Did you know there was one leaning hard, Did you know that I listened and waited and prayed And was cheered by your simplest word? Did you know that I longed for that smile on your face, For the sound of your voice ringing true, Did you know I grew stronger and better because I had merely touched shoulders with you?

I am glad that I live; that I battle and strive For a place that I know I must fill; I’m thankful for sorrows I’ll meet with a grin What fortune may send good or ill; I may not have wealth, I may not be great but I know I shall always be true, For I have in my life that courage you gave, When once I touched shoulders with you.

The Little Unicorn

by Peggy Kociscin,

There lived a little unicorn (From when the earth was new), His coat so white it glistened, His eyes a sparkling blue.

In innocence and beauty, He danced through woods and streams. The animals danced with him, His heart aglow with dreams.

He laughed and played with rainbows, So happy all day through, He loved to kiss the flowers

As their petals shone with dew.

He wandered through the meadows In the moon’s soft, silver light.

He loved to gaze at all the stars That lightened up the night.

He listened to the music

Of the birds that graced the trees. He frolicked with the butterflies And raced the gentle breeze.

But, as he grew and learned of life, The sparkle in his eye Grew misty as he realized Just what it means to cry.

He learned that there are shadows In spite of shining sun.

New Mexico

The more he grew, he found that life Was never always fun.

For now he’d learn of feelings

That come from deep within;

No longer in the “dream world”

Where (for so long) he’d been.

His gentle heart desired

But to know the pleasure of

To give and to receive

The very precious gift of love.

To love meant to be happy, And yet it also brought him pain; For those he loved could hurt him

Again.. and yet again.

His mother held him lovingly

And tried to ease his fears About the sadness life could bring...

The lonely, bitter tears.

She said, “Life is like a mountain, (And surely this is true) That we must climb as best we can.

There’s no ‘around or ‘through.’”

The unicorn tried tirelessly, And gave the climb his best; But he felt it was not good enough, He felt he’d failed the test.

He could not understand it When he felt himself rejected –When all his gentle being asked Was but to be accepted. All this was just too much for him, He knew not what to do. That he was special as himself, Somehow, he never knew. His spirit crushed, he felt defeated, And lonely tears would start. Not understanding how to love, It simply broke his heart.

But now he’s in a loving place Where all his pain has ceased, Where all accepted him and his love, Where all he knows is peace. A loving Being tells him, “You’re delightful as you are.” His spirit free, his brilliance now Outshines the brightest star!

Albuquerque,

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

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