Kamloops This Week April 12, 2023

Dan Lal (right) shares photos and video taken during the tough detox Rob underwent in the weeks prior to entering the Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan men’s recovery centre.

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Dearborn shows gratitude by giving away truck

CONTINUED FROM F1

Hot off giving away a four-person trip to Mexico, Dearborn Ford general manager Justin Grover decided to go bigger than ever in 2023.

“We gave away a car before and the excitement of giving someone a brandnew car was amazing,” he said. “The whole dealership was buzzing with energy and pride to be a part of something that big.”

That excitement was something the team wanted more of because they’re back at it again with the launch of their latest promotion Dearborn Ford is giving away a brand-new truck.

The 2023 Ford Maverick is a fully functional, mid-sized truck that offers owners the luxuries of an SUV with the bed of a truck for life needs, such as picking up furniture, trips to the dump or towing up to 4,000 pounds of your toys with the optional towing kit.

“Although our lineup of trucks is extremely fuel-efficient, some people don’t need a truck every day,” said Dearborn sales manager Sam Thacker “With fuel economy as low as 8 1 L/ 100km on the highway, this truck is going to fill a void in the market, for sure.”

There is also the availability of the Tremor package, which opens up the

world of off-roading for those who would like to get a little dirt in their tires in the beautiful B.C outdoors.

Keep an eye out for Dearborn’s marketing team, which will be out in the community at various events with the freshly wrapped Maverick.

“Alex [Becket] and I have a lot of fun planned with the Maverick to really showcase its capabilities, as well as help out in our community, so keep an eye on our social platforms to learn more about that as they come,” said Madi Bedard, Dearborn Ford’s marketing and community manager.

Grover reiterated Dearborn’s gratitude for the support the Kamloops and area community has shown the Valleyview dealership

“It’s their support that allows us to give a free truck back to a lucky Kamloopsian and that’s pretty special,” he said There are multiple ways to enter to win the truck and there is no purchase necessary, so stop by Dearborn Ford at 2555 East Trans-Canada Hwy. in Valleyview today and watch for their community cruiser around Kamloops for your chance to win the largest giveaway in the dealership’s history.

C I T Y PAG E

Apr 12, 2023

CO U N C I L C A L E N DA R

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.

April 14, 2023

10:00 am - Community to Community Forum

April 18, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

April 18, 2023 (Cancelled)

7:00 pm - Public Hearing

May 2, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

May 3, 2023

5:30 pm - Council and School District No 73

May 9, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

May 11, 2023

9:00 am - Council Committee Governance

Select 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

• Westsyde Road Multi-Use Pathway

Westsyde Road to Alview Crescent

• 6th Avenue

Columbia Street at 6th Avenue

• 12th Street

Tranquille Road to Kenora Road

• Highland Road

South of the Valleyview Arena to Valleyview Drive

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

Kamloops.ca/Kammute

T R E E C O U P O N S

The City of K amloops’ annual tree coupons are now available to the public The coupons have a $20 or $50 value, depending on the price of the selected tree Coupons will only be available at these par ticipating nurseries:

• Ar t Knapp Plantland

• Canadian Tire - Aberdeen

• Canadian Tire - Nor th Shore

• Countr y Garden Greenhouses & Nurser y

• Lyons Garden and Landscape Centre

• Purity Feed Co

A total of 1,000 coupons will be available on a first- come, first-ser ved basis to residents within K amloops’ municipal boundaries, with a limit of one per household Residents will need to supply proof of address in the form of a driver ’s licence or a City of K amloops utility or proper ty tax statement. Coupons will only be available at the time of purchase of an eligible tree and cannot be picked up at one store and used at another store, nor can coupons be picked up for use at a later date

For more information on tree eligibility, visit: Kamloops.ca/TreeCoupon

HOW DO YOU PARTICIPATE?

C ALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS

As bears emerge from hibernation, they will be hungr y Unmanaged bear attractants around our homes can unintentionally attract bears to our neighbourhoods as they sniff out food sources

Remember, a fed bear is a dead bear Your actions can save a bear ’s life. Under the Solid Waste and Rec yclables Bylaw No 40-67:

• Residents must ensure that solid waste car ts are stored securely and made inaccessible to wildlife

• Car ts must not be placed at the curb earlier than 4:00 am on collection day between April 1 and November 30.

• No proper ty owner or occupier shall accumulate, store, or collect any wildlife attractants unless stored in an enclosed structure or closed container

• Infractions may result in a $100 fine Did you k now? K amloops is one of only 10 BC communities that has achieved official “Bear Smar t ” status. Thank you for helping K amloops remain a Bear Smar t Community!

Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461

For after-hours emergencies, press 1.

Learn more, at: Kamloops.ca/BearSmar t

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 Kamloops gift certificate 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

Save the date! We are excited to once again host our annual Volunteer Appreciation BBQ. Please join City Council to celebrate the volunteers who build, maintain, and grow healthy communities

Friday, April 21, 2023

11:30 am to 1:30 pm Sandman Centre, 300 Lorne Street

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

NOMINATE AN EXCELLENT BUSINESS

The Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce has issued a call for nominations in the 37th annual Business Excellence Awards, presented by MNP LLP.

The awards recognize outstanding achievements of businesses and not-for-profit agencies in Kamloops and the surrounding areas. From

TODAY’S FLYERS

April 5 to May 31, any person can nominate any business they feel deserves recognition for their accomplishments. Nominations can be submitted online through the Chamber’s website at kamloopschamber.ca.

The Nominee Breakfast, presented by CN, will be held on Friday, June 9 at the Sandman

Signature Kamloops Hotel. The finalists announcement, presented by Prestige Hotel Kamloops, will take place on Thursday, July 20, at the Tk’emlúps Powwow Arbour.

The Business Excellence Awards Gala, presented by MNP LLP, will be held on Thursday, Oct. 26, at TRU’s Grand Hall.

The 52-year-old Thompson Manor (formerly known as Clearview Manor and the Cherry Avenue Apartments) at 435 Cherry Ave. has been vacant since a fire in January 2021 displaced residents. The 34,000-squarefoot building has 42 units — one studio unit, 23 one-bedroom units and 18 twobedroom units — and 44 on-site parking spots.

WEATHER FORECAST

April 12: Chance of flurries 12/-1 (hi/low)

April 13: Sun and clouds 13/0 (hi/low)

April 14: Sunny 14/3 (hi/low)

April 15: Sunny 17/8 (hi/low)

April 16: Cloudy 16/6 (hi/low)

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BC Housing pays $12.8m for building

viduals and people living with disabilities.

property, including the land and building.

The provincial government has purchased a once-notorious apartment building in North Kamloops for use as affordable rental housing.

The 52-year-old Thompson Manor (formerly known as Clearview Manor and the Cherry Avenue Apartments) at 435 Cherry Ave. has been vacant since a fire in January 2021 displaced residents. The 34,000-squarefoot building has 42 units — one studio unit, 23 one-bedroom units and 18 two-bedroom units — and 44 on-site parking spots.

The provincial government, through BC Housing, has purchased the property for $12.8 million. The property is assessed at $4.2 million ($2.9 million for the building and $1.3 million for the land). The apartment building was constructed in 1971.

BC Housing will choose an organization to manage it. The ASK Wellness Society and the Canadian Mental Health Association currently manage a number of BC Housing properties.

Clearview Manor will be home to lowand moderate-income families, seniors, indi-

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon said the vacant property could have otherwise been redeveloped and converted to for-profit housing.

While upgrades have been made to the inside and outside of the building, more renovations are required before people can move in. Renovations are expected to take approximately six months to complete, with an aim of having tenants move in by the end of summer.

KTW asked BC Housing why the purchase price was three times the assessed value and was provided with an emailed statement.

BC Housing said the $12.8 million it paid for the property includes land, taxes, renovations and other miscellaneous costs.

“The government assessed value is typically lower than the actual market purchase price for a property,” the statement reads.

“BC Housing obtains independent property appraisals to guide purchases. These appraisals support the purchase prices for properties.”

BC Housing said an independent appraisal of the site took place in February and took into account the existing market value of the

“This appraisal valued the property at $10.4 million, but did not consider the redevelopment potential of the site,” the statement reads.

“The property is zoned for much higher density. The valuation also did not consider the suites that have already been fully renovated to a high standard by the previous owner. These renovations are valued at approximately $400,000, accounting for much of the difference.”

BC Housing also cited another $550,000 in renovations being completed by the previous owner, work that includes mechanical and plumbing repairs, replacement of the roof and exterior cladding, new windows, an upgraded security system, retrofitted sprinkler system and upgrades to the electrical system

The apartment building is located just a block from the intersection of Tranquille Road and Wood Street.

The apartment building was known in the past for drawing the attention of police for various reasons. In December 2014, a 26-year-old woman was murdered there, while assaults and drug busts had also taken place in prior years.

CHRISTOPHER FOULDS KTW EDITOR editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

KTW PHOTO

Homeless count set for Kamloops, Tk’emlúps

The City of Kamloops is one of 20 B.C. cities participating in this year’s homeless point-in-time (PIT) count, which will take place on April 12 and April 13, with a few new initiatives expanding the campaign.

The count, with participation from local non-profit organizations, serves to tally the number of people experiencing homelessness in Kamloops over a specified period of time and to gather information on the demographics and service needs of the local homeless population.

PIT counts are typically conducted every two to three years in communities across Canada.

The count will be conducted over a 24-hour period, beginning on April 12 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at participating shelters.

That will be followed by a street (unsheltered) count during the day on April 13, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Examples of unsheltered locations include parks, beaches, encampments and alleys.

In groups of three, volunteers will be assigned areas based on a predetermined map developed by the PIT count committee.

The teams of three will walk together, connect with people and administer voluntary surveys.

There will also be “magnet events” that include food, activities, cultural services and resources, designed to encourage homeless individuals to participate in the survey.

The survey is voluntary and those who decline to participate will still be

counted in the count, anonymously. Those identified will be asked to complete a survey with myriad questions, including how long they have lived in Kamloops.

New this year, the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc is allowing volunteer teams to count and survey homeless individuals on the reserve, specifically those immediately adjacent to the city, such as areas along the North and South Thompson rivers, according to a recent staff report to city council.

“They [the Tk’emlúps band] were

supportive of this request. They see the information as relevant to their advocacy and future housing initiatives,” city community and emergency supports supervisor Natasha Hartson told city council during a PIT count update in March.

Band representatives are also on the PIT count committee and provided input into the survey questions and mapping.

One new question drafted for this year, related to residential schools, has been added at the request of the Indigenous Homelessness Steering Committee for BC and Lu’ma Native Housing Society.

PREVIOUS COUNTS SHOW HOMELESS IN 200-PERSON RANGE IN KAMLOOPS

In 2021, there were 206 people in Kamloops identified as experiencing homelessness, with 147 of them taking part in the survey, according to Kamloops’ PIT count.

Counts also took place in 2018 (which identified more than 190 homeless people) and 2016.

The point-in-time count is being done in partnership with the

Homelessness Service Association of BC and BC Housing, with support from local non-profit organizations, volunteers and city staff.

While the city is project-managing the count, staff are following guidance and expertise from a PIT count committee.

The committee is composed of members from A Way Home Kamloops, ASK Wellness Society, Canadian Mental Health Association, Interior Community Services, Interior Health, Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society, Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society, Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, Out of the Cold, The Mustard Seed Kamloops and United Way BC.

A PIT count is considered a snapshot of homelessness and the accuracy of the numbers and information gathered depends on the thoroughness of the methods and participation. The counts are generally considered undercounts of the homeless population.

The PIT count report will be released this fall.

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Mayor has issue with homeless count

Mayor has issue with homeless count

REID HAMER-JACKSON IS CRITICAL OF FREQUENCY AND TIMING

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER

michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson has raised concerns with this year’s pointin-time (PIT) count of the city’s homeless population.

A well-known advocate for recovery centres pre-dating his election win last October, the April 12/13 count will be the first since 2021 and the first under Hamer-Jackson as mayor.

The 2023 PIT count will take place on April 12 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. in participating shelters and on April 13 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in public spaces across Kamloops.

Hamer-Jackson said the counts should be done more often, every three months, and should be conducted in the middle of the night, to be more effective at calculating the actual number of people who are homeless in Kamloops.

City community and emergency supports supervisor Natasha Hartson told the mayor during her March update on the 2023 PIT count that the time and manpower it takes to complete the count would not be feasible on a three-month rotation.

She said it takes three to four months to plan it, adding it would re-traumatize and frustrate homeless people to be asked the same questions so frequently, particularly if they have yet to find housing.

REID HAMER-JACKSON IS CRITICAL OF FREQUENCY AND TIMING

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson has raised concerns with this year’s pointin-time (PIT) count of the city’s homeless population.

A well-known advocate for recovery centres pre-dating his election win last October, the April 12/13 count will be the first since 2021 and the first under Hamer-Jackson as mayor.

The 2023 PIT count will take place on April 12 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. in participating shelters and on April 13 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in public spaces across Kamloops.

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson told Kamloops Last Week — KTW’s weekly webcast/ podcast — that some survey volunteers work with the city’s homeless and have themselves been homeless. He cited as “bizarre” the assumption that people will not go out in the middle of the night.

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson told Kamloops Last Week — KTW’s weekly webcast/ podcast — that some survey volunteers work with the city’s homeless and have themselves been homeless. He cited as “bizarre” the assumption that people will not go out in the middle of the night.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Hamer-Jackson said the counts should be done more often, every three months, and should be conducted in the middle of the night, to be more effective at calculating the actual number of people who are homeless in Kamloops.

“I just find one day and three hours in a shelter with human beings is just not great data,” Hamer-Jackson told Hartson.

The mayor was critical of the survey not extending past 6 p.m., something Hartson said is connected to a safety issue for volunteers.

Hamer-Jackson said he speaks with many of the city’s homeless in the middle of the night, arguing the situation is not that unsafe.

City community and emergency supports supervisor Natasha Hartson told the mayor during her March update on the 2023 PIT count that the time and manpower it takes to complete the count would not be feasible on a three-month rotation.

Hamer-Jackson told Kamloops Last Week — KTW’s weekly webcast/podcast — that some survey volunteers work with the city’s homeless and have themselves been homeless.

He cited as “bizarre” the assumption that

She said it takes three to four months to plan it, adding it would re-traumatize and frustrate homeless people to be asked the same questions so frequently, particularly if they have yet to find housing.

“I just find one day and three hours in a shelter with human beings is just not great data,” Hamer-Jackson told Hartson.

people will not go out in the middle of the night.

“I really struggle with this count because these are human beings and we put a lot of weight in this count,” Hamer-Jackson told Hartson during the council’s March 14 meeting.

The mayor was critical of the survey not extending past 6 p.m., something Hartson said is connected to a safety issue for volunteers.

The 2023 PIT count is supported by funding from the federal government’s Canada’s Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy.

Hamer-Jackson said he speaks with many of the city’s homeless in the middle of the night, arguing the situation is not that unsafe.

people will not go out in the middle of the night.

“I really struggle with this count because these are human beings and we put a lot of weight in this count,” Hamer-Jackson told Hartson during the council’s March 14 meeting.

The 2023 PIT count is supported by funding from the federal government’s Canada’s Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy.

Hamer-Jackson told Kamloops Last Week — KTW’s weekly webcast/podcast — that some survey volunteers work with the city’s homeless and have themselves been homeless.

He cited as “bizarre” the assumption that

Asked by KTW why he does not ask council to direct staff to have the city do its own, more robust count, given his qualms, Hamer-Jackson said he wants to work on that, but doubts he would have support from fellow council members.

Asked by KTW why he does not ask council to direct staff to have the city do its own, more robust count, given his qualms, Hamer-Jackson said he wants to work on that, but doubts he would have support from fellow council members.

Concerns about Joint Tenancy?

If you're thinking about using joint tenancy as a cheap or "do-it-yourself " estate planning tool, you want to ensure you're aware of all the risk factors. Recent BC Court decisions have resulted in chilling warnings for parents thinking of transferring assets into joint names with children For example, a mother had purchased a new home and added her son on title as a joint tenant The son never lived at the residence, but he co-signed on the mortgage. A few years later, the son's business ran into financial difficulties and became insolvent The Court found that the son had an equitable interest in the property, therefore 50% of the property value was available to the son's creditors.

While joint tenancy can be an effective tool, it is important to be aware of all the risks If you have questions, we’re here to help

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A political prescribed burn at city hall OPINION

What we are seeing at city hall, aside from an entertaining circus that has made normally staid meetings must-see TV, is political strategy being played out for the public.

It truly is fascinating, in particular for those who like to dive into strategies employed and discarded in the field of politics.

We all know it is Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson versus the eight councillors in a battle based on how the city should tackle the everpresent social disorder situation on the streets. And we know the battle has been nasty, with Coun. Katie Neustaeter, speaking on behalf of all eight councillors, alleging at a March 17 press conference that the mayor has violated personal and

CHRISTOPHER FOULDS Newsroom VIEWS

professional boundaries and belittled and disrespected councillors.

The mayor, in response, has denied all such charges while demanding Neustaeter and council elaborate and offer proof of the vague allegations.

Neustaeter and company have thus far refused to offer more, not to the mayor nor the media, with some of the allegations apparently relating to comments allegedly made during in-camera meetings.

In fact, another in a series of such closed meetings last week was linked to this particular battle, based on the mayor revealing as much during a brief open meeting, held to carry council into the closed gathering.

Confused? Don’t worry. You’re not alone.

The salient part of all of this is the fact the outcome of the city council conflict is not in doubt — the eight councillors will prevail by dint of their voting power. The intrigue is in how council as a whole will finally reach a decision on the manner in which it will operate

email: editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

until the next civic election on Oct. 17, 2026, which is 42 months from now.

And, if one watches carefully as the two opponents parry and thrust, one will see both sides appear to be prepping the battlefield so they can each blame the other side for the inevitable stalemate, while the prevailing faction (the eight councillors) may ultimately do what it could have done long ago.

At immediate issue now is the structure of council, from the nine elected representatives who steer the city, to standing committees that report to council, to engagement committees that report to standing committees.

Everything imploded in March, when Hamer-Jackson, exercising his right as mayor under the Community Charter, stripped some

councillors of their positions as chairs of standing committees and appointed nine residents, one of whom worked on his election campaign, two of whom donated money to his election campaign and some of whom are his friends.

The eight councillors were miffed and, exercising their right under the Community Charter, voted to create a select committee to determine the terms of reference for standing committees — in other words, how the committees will be run.

As a result, the mayor rescinded the non-elected appointments and council paused the standing committees, handing Coun. Kelly Hall the task of forming the select committee.

See

Kamloops council at work on myriad issues

The start to our council term has not been quite what some of us may have anticipated.

While I did not expect it to be easy, I have probably been a little too optimistic that we could put nine type A personalities in one group without considerable growing pains.

With that being said, and with my rosecoloured glasses on, I would prefer all council headlines were for good news.

I would like to reiterate that, despite the ongoing discourse, the work of council is progressing. This is made much easier by the exceptional work of city staff and employees.

As we interface with other municipalities and regional districts in the province, it is reassuring to know we have many of the best and brightest right here in Kamloops.

I recently attended the Housing Summit

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MARGOT MIDDLETON View From City Hall

in Vancouver, hosted by the Union of BC Municipalities. The extent of the housing crisis across all communities in B.C. is staggering.

There is no quick or easy fix. Creating housing for all demographics will be a long and arduous journey. Some great work is already underway in Kamloops, with steady increases in development approvals and building starts.

Work already progressing on densification in our residential neighbourhoods is a great start. We need to do more work on what the end result will look like

I believe the number of dwellings versus lot

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size and location needs to be further examined and quantified.

We need to be very sensitive to neighbours most impacted by infill development. If we are to overcome the “not in my backyard” mindset, we need to get this right.

As we move into spring, I look forward to seeing residents outdoors, making full use of the wide range of facilities we have in our city.

Our outdoor spaces are a testament to our past city councils and their vision of a fourseason Tournament Capital.

We need to ensure this council puts full focus on the recreation master plan and continues to fulfill its mission to provide all types of recreational facilities and venues.

I am confident Kamloops will continue to be the go-to place for sports, culture and tour-

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ism. With these three top of mind, we are also building on livability, industry and business attraction and an opportunity for all to make Kamloops their home.

It would be remiss of me not to give a huge thumbs up to the Kamloops Blazers, the Memorial Cup host committee and city staff for the tremendous amount of work and effort it took to bring the Kia Memorial Cup to the city. The work is not over yet. If you can, please be sure to volunteer and attend games.

Make Kamloops shine.

Go, Blazers, go!

Margot Middleton is a Kamloops councillor. Her email address is mmiddleton@kamloops. ca. Council columns appear monthly in KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

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OPINION

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Taking pains to make it work, until it doesn’t

From A8

The resulting group includes the mayor — a strategic move cloaked in an olive branch. In fact, the entire process appears to be a months-long strategy in the guise of an overture of peace, one that, come July, may result in a decision by council that could have been made four months earlier.

In the interest of expediting the process, councillors could have simply resigned their positions on the standing committees, thereby dissolving said committees based on the fact the Community Charter dictates that at least 50 per cent of committee membership must include elected officials.

Council could have then created select committees to address the identical issues addressed by standing committees, freezing out the mayor in the process and bringing recommendations to council, where the eight councillors and their majority votes could implement whatever they wish, mayoral opposition be damned.

But the eight councillors have chosen the circuitous route, ensuring voters see they have taken pains to work with the mayor — until, that is, trying to work with

WE ASKED:

How can the impasse at Kamloops council be fixed?

COUNCIL NEEDS TRANSPARENCY

Editor:

the mayor becomes untenable.

We were given a glimpse of that during the first select committee last week, when Hamer-Jackson repeatedly sparred with his colleagues and was the lone member of the committee to vote against having staff research other cities’ committee structures, terms of reference and procedure bylaws. He was also the lone dissenting vote on a motion to approve the terms of reference for the select committee itself.

By enduring this period of verbal jousting at city hall, councillors are employing a political prescribed burn, sacrificing a few months now for the good of the full term ahead.

Standing committees with updated terms of reference may emerge this summer.

However, based on the apparent inability of the mayor and councillors to get through a meeting without clashing like siblings sharing a small room, don’t be surprised if standing committees are abandoned and councillor-dominated select committees created — with a “You see? We tried” mantra accompanying the decision.

editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

Twitter: @ChrisJFoulds

On April 7, KTW reported on the city council meetings that had taken place the previous day (‘Kamloops mayor may have revealed closed meeting information’).

There are two strikingly illogical aspects to this story.

Firstly, the Community Charter requires that council members must keep in confidence any information considered during a closed meeting, until council as a whole decides to make such information public. So, how could the mayor possibly have revealed information considered during a closed meeting that had not yet begun and what “information” did he reveal?

The mayor asked if the proposed closed meeting was for legitimate council business or if it pertained to personal issues of one or more councillors.  He was interrupted, but did not receive an answer.

Secondly, the Charter requires that any closed meeting of council be for one of the

specific purposes enumerated in Section 90 and that the intended purpose be stated publicly in the agenda of the open council meeting.

In this instance, the stated purpose of the closed meeting was for “the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitorclient privilege ...” pursuant to s. 90(1)(i).

The mayor wanted to know the subject matter of the legal advice council would be receiving and what lawyer would be providing such advice. Deputy corporate officer Amanda Passmore answered by asserting that no lawyer was required under this section.

Her statement was, to be polite, utter nonsense. Who, other than a lawyer, is qualified to give legal advice protected by solicitor-client privilege? A priest?  A yoga instructor?

In reality, this closed meeting was a sham. It was not convened for the legitimate purpose of receiving legal advice. Rather, it was a clumsy

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What are your thoughts on the B.C. government’s decision to end mask mandates in health-care facilities?

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attempt by council and staff to lower a cloak of “confidentiality” over communications that had been ongoing for several weeks among councillors and others, recorded in text messages, e-mails, non-closed meetings and voice mails, pertaining to accusations they had made, but were unable to justify.

Unfortunately, our eight councillors appear to lack the courage and integrity to back up their personal attacks on the mayor with facts or to even respond honestly and truthfully when asked about these matters by the mayor, by the media and by the citizens of Kamloops.

Let me suggest that any move on their part toward transparency and accountability would be good for them and for the community.

David McMillan Kamloops

Editor’s note: David McMillan is Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson’s personal lawyer.

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

Will we buy into housing plan?

THERE IS A NEED FOR 25 PER CENT MORE HOMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Last week, as a consultant and observer, I attended the Union of BC Municipalities housing summit.

A total of 550 people from across the province, with a range of roles in connection with housing, came together to talk solutions to the housing crisis.

It was wonderful to see healthy representation from Kamloops council at the event.

Housing prices and rents have soared over the past decades through a combination of greater demand and limited supply. Many use housing as an investment tool and, as North Vancouver MP Terry Beach shared at the summit, “everyone wants to retire to B.C”.

Current community planning and zoning largely favours single-family or larger apartment-type housing. These types of housing are either out of financial reach or not matched well to peoples’ housing needs and desires.

Builders struggle with slow and cumbersome permitting processes that can make it uneconomical to build the type of housing we need.

As if all that wasn’t enough in terms of challenges, there is more.

We are all seeing the impact of staffing shortages. A big solution to our labour shortage is increased immigration.

ARJUN

The federal government has increased its targets for new immigrants to unprecedented numbers.

In 2022, Canada’s population grew by one-million people, 95 per cent of whom were new immigrants. We will need to figure out how to house our growing population.

Canada has about 14-million dwellings and the Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation estimates we will need 3.5 million more to restore affordability by 2030. That amounts to 25 per cent more homes across the country. These are quite staggering numbers.

So, what are possible solutions?

The provincial and federal governments are investing more in housing and housingrelated infrastructure, especially working with non-profit

and co-op housing associations.

Many governments are automating certain permitting processes or trying to add staff to their housing permitting departments.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim talked about 3D printing of homes and B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon again promoted the benefits of prefab homes.

A big part of Premier David Eby’s housing strategy involves rarely used provincial powers to supercede local zoning and planning authority.

Specifically, the province intends to legalize building code-compliant secondary suites across the province and also plans to allow at least three units on currently zoned single-family lots, with no rezoning required.

As a former city councillor, I feel it will be very interesting to see how people react to the province’s move to densify single-family neighbourhoods.

Reaching bold goals requires trade-offs.

Building the housing we need without compromising climate action goals does require more people living in closer proximity to each other.

When more people live closer together, neighbourhoods often have better amenities and more vibrancy.

People can feel less isolated.

There will be more attainable housing for young fami -

lies, but this does potentially lead to less privacy, less parking and more traffic. There will be less private green space and tree cover.

These are concerns I have heard in public hearing after public hearing.

What are we willing to give up to achieve more affordable housing for everyone? What creative ideas can we come up with that will decrease potential trade-offs?

Building off the words of UBCM president and Whistler Coun. Jen Ford, are we really willing to be change-makers?

The province has welcomed feedback on its housing strategies before the introduction of legislation in September and I’m curious about the kind of feedback that will be provided. Are we citizens willing to give our representatives the support they will need to best solve the housing crisis?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MEMO

TO CITY COUNCIL: LEAD

Editor:

I am appalled and dismayed after reading about the chaos on council on the front page of the Kamloops This Week

In all my years of working and parenting, I have noticed the leader at the top sets the tone of the organization. Whether you are a mayor, a boss, a principal, a teacher, a coach or the editor of a newspaper, you are ultimately responsible for the people you are leading and it is your mandate to lead.

Great leaders listen to others. I can’t stress the importance of listening skills and how effective they are in understanding and helping people feel important and that they matter. In his book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey writes: “As you learn to listen deeply to other people, you will discover tremendous differences in perception. You will also begin to appreciate the impact that these differences can have as people try to work together in interdependent situations.”

Listening to the team of people that has been voted in by the citizens of Kamloops is crucial. Listening without interruptions, without an agenda and without prejudice is listening with the intent to understand.

Great leaders express gratitude. They look for the strengths and talents of each team member and offer praise whenever possible. There is a healing power in the ability to be grateful.

I would think it a great honour to be chosen by voters to be the mayor and a councillor of a city. It is an honour to work with hardworking, dedicated people who are there to serve with you.

It is an honour to be given the chance to make a difference in the city in which you live. We need great leadership. We need you to lead. We need you.

Kasandra A.

Mathieson Kamloops

Direct to Smelter – Precious Metals Recycling Roadshow returns to Kamloops

Ursa Major Gold, Silver & Coin returns to Kamloops April 16th and 17th. You can bring your gold, silver, coins and Canadian paper money to the Brock Activity Centre between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day. No appointment is required. Barry Dick is a precious metals buyer and President of Ursa Major Gold, Silver & Coin. “Ursa Major has the unique advantage of dealing directly with a smelter” said Dick.

“That allows us to cut out one or even two middlemen.

Ursa Major purchases gold and silver from other gold buyers, pawn shops, dentists, jewellers and jewellery makers as well as the public.” In terms of the US dollar, gold and silver prices appear low but the weak Canadian dollar means prices are strong.

Ursa Major analyzes your gold, silver, coins, and paper money while you watch, with the process explained to you in detail. Coins with numismatic value are graded and set aside from those with a ‘melt’ value Silver items such as jewellery and flatware are analyzed for hallmark identification. Items thought to contain gold will also be analyzed for hallmarks, and then confirmed using precise testing that is done while you watch. Then a cash offer is presented and you decide to sell or not

“If you decide to sell after hearing the quote, great, but it is also about information” says Dick.

“A lot of times people just need to know a ballpark of what things are worth; we don’t pressure anyone into selling”

Dick took out his first gold claim when he turned 16 in the 1970’s and has been involved with precious metals ever since An ardent gold panner, he was a regular at the world championship gold panning competition with a personal best of 3rd place in 1984.

“Nearly half of the world’s annual

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gold harvest comes from recycled gold. Energy costs are about $500 to mine a new ounce of gold where recycled gold is about $10 per ounce That prevents a lot of diesel from being burned.” Gold and silver purchased at the show and later melted goes back into the market without incurring that environmental cost

Out of fashion jewelry, single earrings, broken chains, unloved jewelry, charm bracelets, dental gold, nuggets and fine gold are all accepted. “We can assess any coin ever made for collector or precious metal value, including world coins and ancient coins.” People are encouraged to bring in any and all coins for assessment

Ursa Major also assesses and purchases Canadian and Dominion of Canada Paper Money They have extensive experience working with estates, executors, widows and widowers in a respectful and caring manner No appointment necessary

Barry Dick

Chance meeting could have profound impact

DAVE EAGLES STAFF REPORTER dave_eagles@kamloopsthisweek.com

Dan Lal swipes his fingers across the screen of his smartphone. Sitting on a couch with his “street friend,” Lal shows Rob images from several weeks earlier — snapshots from when Rob had first reached out to The Lighthouse Project, which led him to undertake detox and now, four weeks later, to the Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan recovery centre in Lake Country.

It is a Saturday morning — visitation day. Lal has arrived from Kamloops to re-connect with Rob, bringing with him Martin Tong, a recovery centre graduate.

Scrolling through images and video clips, the new friends recall the stories behind each capture, a visual record of one man’s journey from addiction and life on the street to detox and recovery.

They pause to view a video clip recorded by a security camera at The Lighthouse Fellowship church’s front door, catching the exact moment Pastor Brandon Linse arrived to find the homeless and drug-addicted Rob waiting on the steps.

Their exchange is brief, yet profound. Rob watches intently as he views himself stepping into the camera frame — as if watching a clip from a movie of his own life.

“Are you cold?”

“Yes.”

“Well, you can come in if you want.”

“All right.”

Both Rob and Lal break out in wide smiles.

“That was it,” Lal said. “That was when it all changed, right there.”

“That’s where I was. I wanted a way out,” Rob added.

Four weeks have passed since Rob arrived at Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan to begin his year-long commitment to recovery from drug addiction.

Rob said he is almost back to his ideal body weight.

“I was down almost 50 pounds from my normal weight of 175 pounds,” he said. “I still have withdrawal because I’m tapering off the drugs that I’m taking. I’ve got two more months until I’m free from opioid addiction. You can’t stop all at once.”

He explains that he is being administered a time-released amount by staff, which will be reduced over the next two months until he no longer takes anything.

“They’re bringing me down to the point where I probably won’t get restless when they cut me off because I’ll be at such a low amount that my brain will probably be healed to the point where my receptors aren’t going, ‘Ahhh!’ all the time,’” Rob said.

Living in a shared home environment with 14 men takes some time to adjust to, he said.

“Just getting used to being around the same people all the time is kinda hard,” Rob said.

”You gotta get used to that. But, you know, it’s a safe place and I gotta do what I gotta do to get through it and that’s what I’ll do.”

Rob said he is learning new strategies to help him cope during his step-down process.

He can access counselling whenever he feels the need.

Each morning, he wakes up between 5:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. before making his way into the kitchen to help clean up the pots and pans.

“I’ve been on dishes for quite awhile,” he said, laughing. “They [staff] comment in the kitchen and say, ‘You’re the best dishwasher we’ve ever had.’”

Rob’s efforts often earn him a fresh coffee from a drive-thru, picked up by a staff member on their way to work.

Morning hours are filled with

devotion time and classroom teaching before lunch.

Most afternoons find Rob taking part in work experience, chopping wood or repairing donated vehicles in the automotive shop — the sale of each provides a small source of revenue in support of the recovery centre.

After dinner, everyone connects for chapel before another devotion time.

“By then, it’s quarter after nine and I’m ready for bed,” Rob said.

Having grown up in Toronto, Rob trained as an auto mechanic for import vehicles, which led him to own a towing company and work as a mechanic in nearby Markham.

It was a time when zoning for business properties in the area changed, which in turn had a major financial impact on his towing business.

With the increased cost of doing business, Rob said he was no longer

able to sustain his job.

It was then that he became addicted to drugs.

“It came to a point I couldn’t afford to do it [drugs] anymore,” he said. “I wanted a change. I wanted out.”

Rob moved to B.C. more than a decade ago, determined to kick his costly habit. He said he still used for a time before eventually getting into recovery.

“I got on the methadone program for a couple of years before deciding it was time to get off of it and be clean,” he said. “I spent two-and-ahalf years coming off it. I dropped down 10 per cent every couple of weeks — sometimes every four weeks, just depending on how I felt.”

Being clean again allowed Rob to earn a modest living in Kamloops, working for a moving company and taking on mechanical jobs.

LEFT: Four weeks into his detox and recovery, Rob admits he has much to smile about. After struggling with a drug addiction for the last decade since arriving in Kamloops, Rob is hopeful he can return to a skilled profession as an import car mechanic. He has already been in the recovery centre’s automotive shop, replacing brakes on a staff member’s vehicle. He admits he has much more healing to do in the months ahead.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

RIGHT: Rob and The Lighthouse Project volunteer Dan Lal about two months ago, days before Rob arrived at the Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan recovery centre in Lake Country.

ADULT & TEEN CHALLENGE OKANAGAN Q&A

Kamloops This Week recently visited the Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan recovery centre in Lake Country and spoke with regional director Grace Absolom.

Q: How does Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan differ from other programs?

A: Our program is a 12-month residential program — not all of them are for one full year. Our program also has people staying on residence in a very structured program that is totally biblically based. We teach people new skills in life and living according to God’s word, [which] is much different than just a program where you’re going to try to get sober.

Q: What can students expect over the course of 12 months?

A: They can expect for the first six months that they’re going to be focusing on learning and in class — getting used to that structure. After that, they are able to do some work experience. It’s typically only in the afternoons and it’s on the property. Once they’ve gotten further along in the program, they get to go out [from the centre] on work experience. It gives them the opportunity to be able to see what it’s like in real life — to learn new life skills, work ethic, all of those things. It’s a communitybased system here, so they all pitch in and help cook and clean, to integrate as a family. The guys call it a brotherhood and treat each other like brothers. They share the responsibilities of everything that needs to be done, including improvements to the place.

Q: Must those who enrol be clean? If so, for how long?

A: We don’t have a detox unit here, so if they come into this program and haven’t detoxed, they struggle for the first little while. What we do ask is that they do their very best to be sober before they come in, but we also don’t want to create barriers to prevent them from coming in. When they have made a decision

to come in, we do everything we can to get them here. We recognize that some people are still coming down off of some kind of drug detox or alcohol and that they need some time to be able to process through that. This is a safe environment to do that. Often, we allow them to be here when they are still getting it out of their system — it could be two or three days. We allow them to rest before they get plugged into the program.

Q: How many students are in the program at one time?

A: We have a capacity of 20 at the centre. We currently have 15 students.

Q: Can you explain ways in which you have seen this method impact change in men’s lives?

A: I see a lot of them come here extremely broken. They’ve had a lot that they’ve been dealing with,

struggling with in their lives, that has brought them to the desperation point. Once they’re here, they still struggle. They don’t get along with others, they’re angry, they’re hurt and some are feeling like they want to run, feeling like they don’t deserve to be here or to be sober. However, I do see people start to change. They actually start to grow. Spiritually, I see them starting to grow. They start to realize that it’s not just about them and that the hurts that they have brought in with them, they’re allowed to leave behind. They learn that they can have freedom in their mind, in their spirit and in their life. They can have joy again. It’s quite incredible when you start to see growth in people.

Q: What does the type of support staff look like? Volunteers, medical professionals, graduates of the program?

A: We have a couple of volunteers

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

that come in to help cook, a couple of people that work with the horse ranch ministry and a few guys that regularly come to help the guys cut firewood. As well, a chaplain comes twice a week, being able to connect one-on-one with each man.

Q: Are there any programs for women?

A: We’re looking for a women’s and children’s centre to be established here in the Okanagan. This has been our dream for a long time. We have people in the community that are really excited about this and want to see this built. We’ve been looking at properties right now and, so, when we’re ready, hopefully fairly soon, we’ll be able to move forward on that as well. We have a women’s centre in Surrey and another men’s centre in Chilliwack.

Q: What would you say to someone with a family member or friend in need of recovery?

A: The fact is, people that are living in addiction — whether it’s alcohol-related or drug-related — you are putting your life at risk. You can continue down this path, but it’s eventually going to destroy you. That’s the way addiction goes. It doesn’t get better. It gets worse. People think that, “Oh yes, I can function OK. I can still use drugs or I can still drink a lot and I can still get to work and can still function.” There are people that do that for a while, but that ends. It’s really hard on the family and the people that care about them as well. Somebody has to deal with the addict and, eventually, it’s going to destroy their lives, as well. Get free, get recovery and learn to live a life where you’re full of joy because you’re actually living life where you help others in that process, as well.

Q: Is there a cost to enrol?

A: We have $1,000 intake fee. [Thereafter], it’s $1,000 per month, which usually comes through the Ministry of Social Development. It is

paid by per diem to us and turns out to be about $1,000 per month. The student gives us consent to be able to collect that money directly. It’s very rare, but there are some people that have financial backing from family or they have bank accounts.

Q: Where does Adult & Teen Challenge get its funding? What is the annual budget?

A: We have a lot of funding that comes through donations and the goodness of people in our communities. Also from the churches that support us. It’s incredible how much we are supported by churches. The government funding that does come to Adult and Teen Challenge is typically attached to the person [when] they’re claiming welfare or disability benefits [from] the Ministry of Social Development. We are paid a per diem for each student to be here. The government will pay us directly and then anything left over goes to the student. We don’t take a lot of money and we don’t have a huge budget. It’s amazing what we operate on. Our operating budget for all of B.C. is $2.7 million for all that we do. Here at the [Okanagan] centre is just under $800,000.

Q: What does the public not understand about recovery centres. Are there misconceptions?

A: This is recovery with purpose. A lot of what happens out there, even in secular-based programs, people encourage you to have the “higher power,” for example. It’s encouraged to have something that you’re accountable to. In some cases, people really focus on the mind and body, but what they are really focussing on is something that is going to channel them. Ours is our faith in God, whereas secular thinking might be a faith in self. It might be a faith in yoga. Ours is a faith in the living God.

For more information about Adult & Teen Challenge BC, go online to teenchallengebc.com.

Grace Absolom is regional director of operations for Adult & Teen Challenge Society of BC. Absolom invited KTW to visit the Lake Country men’s recovery centre and to visit Rob, who has begun his year-long journey to recovery at the centre.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Meeting may have been ‘divine intervention’

A short time later, Rob said, he sustained a serious head injury after being struck by a vehicle. He woke up on a bench in the parking lot outside Royal Inland Hospital, not knowing who he was. He said he was diagnosed with having suffered a double stroke, the result of head trauma.

After four months of being shuffled around on different wards at RIH, Rob said he ended up on 1 South, the psychiatric ward, before he began understanding where he was.

“Most of the time that I was in the hospital, I don’t really remember. [I was] probably in a lot of pain, which I don’t recall, but they were pumping me full of fentanyl … and I got readdicted.”

After being released from the hospital, Rob said, he found he had no place to go. He had lost his housing, his driver’s licence and the ability to earn a living. He continued to use drugs while living on Kamloops’ streets for the past two years.

It wasn’t until he met Lal from The Lighthouse Project nearly two months ago that his life began to change. Rob speaks of that day, meeting Lal for the first time.

“I’m sure that it was divine intervention that day,” he said.

Earlier that day, he said he found a large bag of crystal meth on the ground and traded it for heroin — his drug of choice. Heading to a familiar spot near Peterson Creek, Rob sat down and used the drug.

Shortly afterward, Lal spotted Rob and stopped, asking him, “Why don’t you come to church on Sunday?”

“I was like, OK. I was pretty much at the point where I was getting tired of being on the

street, and getting tired of being addicted, and being tired of nobody helping me,” Rob said. “I was ready to kill myself.”

Rob said his grandmother looked after him until he turned 17. He said he felt both his parents never really wanted him. His mother was a devout Jehovah’s Witness; his father “was looking for a bottle and a woman to solve all his problems.”

He recalls attending church with his grandma, a strong Presbyterian woman, who encouraged him to be confirmed in the faith as a teen, which Rob did. Since her death, Rob said he cherishes those memories.

“I would give anything for a card game and a cup of tea with her, anything,” he said.

As Rob talks about the days ahead, his understanding and commitment to change is growing, as is his faith.

“The Lord’s been after me since I was 27,” he said. “The Lord tried the easy way to get my attention many, many, many times — and this time, he didn’t spare any punches.”

Rob said he would like to return to his automotive work roots.

“It says in the Bible, if you don’t work, you don’t eat. When I get back on my feet, that’s what I’ll do,” he said.

Rob is looking forward to again getting his driver’s licence and, at some point, a vehicle — suggesting that when he graduates from the year-long recovery program, there may be a “fixer-upper” with his name on it.

“[For now], I’m just trying to figure out what God’s plan for me is,” Rob said. “That’s what I’m up to. I don’t know what the plan is. I’m asking all the time — ‘Just let me know.’”

For more information about The Lighthouse Project, go online to lighthouseprojects.ca, call 778-538-4118 or email dannydlal@gmail.com.

Correction

In the first of this two-part series, in the April 5 edition of Kamloops This Week, the story that appeared on page A13 contained information that was incorrect.

The story incorrectly stated that Cameron

ABOVE: Recovery centre graduate Martin Tong

and The Lighthouse Project volunteer Dan Lal (right) share a laugh with Rob on April 1 at the Adult & Teen Challenge Okanagan men’s recovery centre. It was the first time Lal had seen Rob since his entry to the program four weeks earlier.

LEFT: The Lake Country property provides a safe place for men to get help and includes individual rooms, kitchen, living space, chapel and an exercise room. The men are expected to be part of the community and each take on various duties around the facility, including caring for horses on their nearby ranch.

Christen had been “through 31 years of being homeless on the streets.”

The story should have stated “Christen has experienced 31 years of addiction.”

He has not experienced homelessness.

(left)

DAVE EAGLES PHOTOS/KTW

Police say homicide probe progressing

Who killed Jo-Anne Donovan?

That is the question police are trying to answer and, according to Kamloops RCMP Staff Sgt. Todd Wiebe, investigators are making “good progress in determining what happened and who may be responsible.”

Donovan, 57, was last believed to be seen on March 13, according to police. When she vanished, her vehicle was left in the driveway of her trailer in the Warren’s Mobile Home Park in the Westmount area of Westsyde, where she lived with her son, Brandon.

Nine days later, on March 22, Donovan was found deceased and a March 28 autopsy confirmed she was the victim of a homicide.

Speaking generally, Wiebe said cause of death can sometimes be obvious in an investigation, but in other cases, an autopsy and pathologist examination is needed. Based on an autopsy’s findings, police can make forensic links, he said.

Wiebe said no arrests have been made in the Donovan investigation since the autopsy.

To date, police have collected video evidence around Donovan’s neighbourhood and in places they believe she may have been in the days leading up to her death. The RCMP continues to appeal to the public for more information to help timeline Donovan’s last movements.

Wiebe said it is too early to say whether police will be seeking to execute more search warrants in

the investigation, adding that police are not disclosing the cause of Donovan’s death or where her body was found in an effort to protect the integrity of the investigation.

“She was located a short distance away from her residence,” Wiebe said, confirming police executed a search warrant at her home.

Asked why police are withholding the location of where Donovan’s body was found, given such information has not been concealed in other recent homicide investiga-

tions in Kamloops, Wiebe said each case depends on the circumstances.

“Some cases, it’s very public where the victims are found and there would be really no point for the police to try to hold it back,” he said. “In other investigations, when it’s not public where the person’s found, we want to hold that back so that we can evaluate any further evidence that may come into us as to how credible it is.”

Wiebe said when the initial investigation began on March 13, Donovan had not been heard from

by friends and family for about three days. He said police looked at her banking records and cellphone information to try to develop a timeline for when she was last seen.

Speaking to CFJC-TV in a segment that aired on March 20, prior to police announcing Donovan’s death was a suspected homicide, son Brandon said he last saw his mother going to bed on the night of March 12, noting everything seemed normal. He added that events leading to her disappearance may have left her distraught.

Wiebe said police are still trying to determine and corroborate the last verified sighting of Donovan, who was known to frequent places on the North Shore, including McArthur Island, Tranquille Farms, the trails at the airport and the area of Tranquille Road and Eighth Avenue.

Anybody with information regarding Donovan and her vehicle — a grey, 2011 Chevrolet four-door Impala, with B.C. licence plate MK8 77W —  is asked to call Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000.

The trailer where Jo-Anne Donovan lived in the Warren’s Mobile Home Park in the Westmount area of Westsyde.

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

JO-ANNE DONOVAN

Can you ID this man?

Kamloops Mounties are asking the public to help identify a man suspected of assaulting a teenager on McArthur Island on April 4.

Staff Sgt. Janelle Shoihet said police were called to McArthur Island just before 6 p.m. to investigate a report that a 14-year-old has been assaulted in the skate park by a man.

Video of the incident has been posted on social media.

It shows two teenage boys wrestling on the grass by the skate park, while several other youths watch. One boy is on top of another boy, applying a headlock, with the boy underneath trying to punch the boy on top.

A third youth appears to be trying to interfere in the melee, which leads to the adult male suspect stepping in. He can be heard off-camera complaining that the fight is an unfair two-on-one battle and orders the boy on top to get off the boy underneath.

The man, who appears to be holding a can of beer, then walks up and kicks the head of the boy on top, while also striking the head of the boy he was apparently trying to help. The boy on top gets up, holding the side of his head, and runs off. The man yells at the group of youths: “You guys are hurting a little kid,” then helps the other boy up and tells him to leave.

The suspect is a white man with a red beard, about 35 years of age. He was wearing black pants, dark running shoes, a black hat, an orange hoodie along with a grey hoodie and a graphic blue t-shirt. He was last seen running from the skate park.

“We are releasing a photo of the suspect taken shortly after the assault in hopes that someone can identify him,” Shoihet said.

Those with information on the man’s identify are asked to call Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and cite file 2023-11379.

Police are hoping the public can help identify this man, who they alleged is behind the assault of a youth on McArthur Island on April 4.

Kamloops MLAs will run in next provincial election

TODD STONE WILL RUN IN KAMLOOPS-NORTH THOMPSON AND PETER MILOBAR WILL RUN IN KAMLOOPS CENTRE

Both Kamloops MLAs have confirmed they will seek re-election in the next provincial election, which is scheduled to be held on Oct. 19, 2024 — unless Premier David Eby decides to call an earlier election.

Todd Stone (currently MLA for KamloopsSouth Thompson) said he intends to stand for re-election in the redrawn Kamloops-North Thompson riding, while Peter Milobar (currently MLA for KamloopsNorth Thompson) said he intends to stand for re-election in the redrawn, and renamed, Kamloops Centre riding. Both are BC Liberal Party MLAs who, as of

Wednesday, April 12, will become BC United MLAs as the party officially changes its name in preparation for the next election.

Both MLAs will be asking the Electoral Boundary Commission to tweak the name of Kamloops-North Thompson to KamloopsThompson Valleys to better reflect the geography of the district, noting more people are living along the South Thompson River valley than the North Thompson River valley.

The two MLAs made their re-election announcements just a day after the Electoral Boundary Commission released its recommendations to

increase the number of ridings in B.C. by six — to 93 from 87 — and to shift the boundaries and names of many ridings.

The new ridings would include four in the Lower Mainland, one on Vancouver Island (in the Langford area) and one in the Kelowna area.

In the Kamloops area,

the two ridings would see boundary changes and one name change. The Kamloops-North Thompson monicker would remain, but the Kamloops-South Thompson riding would be renamed Kamloops Centre.

The new Kamloops Centre riding would consist of Kamloops’ urban core and the surrounding neighbourhoods of Aberdeen, Thompson Rivers University, North Kamloops, Brocklehurst and most of Sahali. The riding’s southern, eastern and western boundaries would follow the municipal borders of the City of Kamloops. Its northern boundary would follow the

CN Railway.

The new KamloopsNorth Thompson riding would include Westsyde, Batchelor Heights and Sun Rivers, as well as Barriere, Clearwater and Sun Peaks from the current KamloopsNorth Thompson riding, along with the Rosehill, Juniper, Valleyview, and

Dallas neighbourhoods and Pritchard, Chase, Monte Lake and Westwold from the current Kamloops-South Thompson riding.

The riding’s southern and western boundaries would follow ThompsonNicola Regional District Electoral Areas J and L.

To the north, the riding would be bounded by Wells Grey Provincial Park.

Its eastern boundary would follow the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. Areas to the west of the city that are currently in the Kamloops-South Thompson riding, including Cherry Creek, Tobiano and Savona, would be part of the Cariboo-Chilcotin riding.

Tous les films seront présentés en français avec des sous-titres en anglais. All of the films will be shown in French with English subtitles.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

TODD STONE

PETER MILOBAR

LOCAL NEWS

Mask mandate lifted

health-care facilities is no longer mandatory;

Mask mandates inside health-care facilities in B.C. have ended, but health-care workers still need to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced the end of the mask mandate on April 6.

In a joint statement, Henry and Dix said it was important to stick with the mask mandate over this past winter, due to the combined effects of COVID-19, influenza and other respiratoryrelated viruses that strained the health-care system.

“At this time, we have seen a decrease in all respiratory viruses, which allows us to move forward with confidence in removing some of the measures that were in place,” the statement reads.

“This is a positive development that reflects the efforts of everyone in our community in following guidelines and taking precautions to keep each other safe.”

As of April 6:

• universal mask-wearing by all staff and visitors in

• visitor restrictions in long-term care, assisted living and health-care facilities have been lifted, including the requirement for proof of vaccination to enter longterm care, assisted living and health-care facilities;

• rapid antigen testing in long-term care is no longer required.

But employees in healthcare settings are still required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, Henry and Dix said, “to protect patients and health-care workers and ensure the resilience of the health-care system.”

Across Interior Health, 895 health-care workers lost their jobs due to the vaccine mandate, 66 of whom worked at Royal Inland Hospital. The breakdown at RIH: 28 nursing staff, including RNs, LPNs, student nurses and care aides, 17 in support services, nine clerical, six technologists/technicians and six in allied health.

Interior Health has told KTW 10 physicians across the health region were impacted by the vaccine

mandate, with an “extremely low” number of doctors affected at Royal Inland Hospital.

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

While the mask mandate has ended, Henry and Dix said there will still be some situations in which masks will be required in healthcare settings or situations in which they have always been required to protect high-risk patients against respiratory transmitted infections and protect workers against highrisk exposure to infectious diseases.

“It’s important to recognize that COVID-19 is still with us and, as such, we must remain vigilant and continue surveillance to monitor the situation,” the statement reads.

“As we approach the next respiratory season, we will be prepared to consider measures that may be necessary to ensure the safe functioning of our health-care system, including potentially reinstating some of the current measures.”

Bridge work narrows traffic

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

The Halston Bridge is getting a long overdue makeover this spring.

Construction on the arterial route, which is the responsibility of the province, will begin in May and take a full year to complete, according to a government press release.

During construction, two of the four travel lanes on the bridge will be closed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reducing the crossing to one lane in each direction. Travellers should expect congestion and delays and

Minimum wage rises to $16.75

plan accordingly.

Essential service providers, such as Kamloops Fire Rescue, BC Ambulance, RCMP and BC Transit, will receive priority access through the construction area.

The project, which is now out to tender, includes resurfacing of the bridge deck, replacement of the deck joints and improvements at the east abutment.

Construction is expected to start this May and be completed by the end of May 2024.

The Halston Bridge carries approximately 23,000 vehicles a day and connects Highway 5 with the North Shore and Westsyde.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK facebook.com/

The per hour minimum wage in B.C. will jump by $1.10 on June 1, increasing to $16.75 from $15.65.

“Having a minimum wage that keeps up with inflation is a key step to prevent the lowest-paid workers from falling behind,” Labour Minister Bains said. “These workers and their families feel the impacts of high costs much more than anyone else. We are maintaining our policy of tying the minimum wage to inflation.”

The hike will give B.C. one of the highest minimum wages in Canada at a time when inflation has dramatically impacted the cost of living.

The increase to the minimum wage is based on B.C.'s average inflation rate in 2022, which was 6.9 per cent. In 2022, the province’s minimum wage

rose by 2.8 per cent, which was the increase in the cost of living in the province in 2021.

Employees of the federal government saw their minimum wage increase to $16.65 from $15.55 on April 1.

Overall, B.C.'s minimum wage has increased from one of the lowest in the country to one of the highest. The minimum wage was $10.45 per hour in 2015.

Kamloops Chamber of Commerce president Tim Shoults said there may be potential upsides for workers who might consider re-entry into the labour market.

“The other issue is there are 150,000 making that wage who just got a seven per cent pay increase, which is larger, now, than inflation,” Shoults said, noting the pay hike’s impact will

be particularly felt in the service sector and among smaller businesses.

While he did not have data that tracks the threshold at which a wage rate might be unsustainable for businesses, Shoults noted each hike adds pressure to businesses’ bottom lines.

“Almost certainly, there will be some businesses, whether they are in Kamloops or elsewhere, where this could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back,” he said.

While the pay hike will be welcomed by employees, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business said the increase in pay will put small businesses in a difficult position because they don’t have the ability to absorb higher costs. In addition, the CFIB said in a release, more than half of the province's small businesses are still experiencing below-

normal sales and are carrying an average of $85,000 in pandemic-related debt.

The CFIB also pointed to other cost pressures, including employer-paid sick days, the employer health tax, WorkSafeBC premiums, rising property taxes, increasing carbon taxes and a new statutory holiday — the Sept. 30 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The CFIB said the 6.9 per cent minimum wage increase for a small business with 10 minimum wage employees will add nearly $20,000 of additional payroll costs.

The association is calling on the provincial government to increase the employer health tax's payroll exemption threshold, balance the cost burden of paid sick days and rebate some of WorkSafeBC's $3.4-billion surplus back to employers.

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$100,000 economic injection for Tk’emlúps

Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc’s Economic Development Corporation is receiving $100,000 to increase internal capacity, with an aim to mentor and teach best practices relating to Indigenous economic development and First Nations land

development, enhancing the corporation’s ability to act on economic opportunities. The money is coming from the provincial government’s Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program. “Our vision is to responsibly develop our lands

in a progressive and sustainable manner, while building a financial legacy and assisting our community in working towards economic sovereignty,”

Tk’emlúps Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir said.

“This funding will be used to add a much-needed role to the area of land development.”

Casimir said her band has 230 acres (92 hectares) of prime land available for lease, an area she said could be home to 75 new businesses that would create millions of dollars in economic activity for Tk’emlúps.

The provincial government has doubled the funding, up to $66 million, for the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program this year.

The program promotes economic diversification, clean-economy opportunities and infrastructure development in rural B.C.

4X6 4X6

Tk’emlúps Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir speaks during the announcement of the province’s increased support for rural B.C., seeing Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc’s Economic Development Corporation receiving $100,000. DAVE EAGLES/KTW

A look at Round 2 VS.

Heavily favoured and unfazed by the weight of expectation, the rollicking Kamloops Blazers swept the Vancouver Giants in four games in Round 1 of the WHL playoffs, vanquishing a No. 7 seed that was overwhelmed and overcome by waves of attack and shot volume.

Competition ramps up considerably in the best-of-seven Western Conference semifinal, with the No. 2 seed Blazers squaring off against the No. 3 Portland Winterhawks, whose depth and quick-strike scoring capability have the Blazers on alert. Games 1 and 2 are at Sandman Centre on Friday, April 14, and Saturday, April 15, with faceoff at 7 p.m. both nights. Games 3 and 4 are in Portland on April 19 and April 20.

“They’ve got good speed, real fast off transition, play a puck-possession game,” Blazers’ head coach Shaun Clouston said. “They can zip the puck around, good offence, good specialty teams — they’re a good hockey team.”

Portland, which jettisoned the No. 6 Everett Silvertips in five games in Round 1, posted a 3-1 record against Kamloops in the regular season, with one victory each in regulation, shootout and overtime.

Six Blazers were participating at NHL camps when Portland blanked Kamloops 3-0 on Sept. 23 at Sandman Centre on opening night of the WHL campaign. Portland edged visiting Kamloops 5-4 in a shootout on Oct. 15 and topped the Blazers 3-2 in overtime on Nov. 19 in the Rose City, recovering from multi-goal deficits on both

occasions to thwart the visitors at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

“We’ve been there a few times and gotten leads and, the next thing you know, they score a goal and the momentum changes right away,” said Blazers’ captain Logan Stankoven, who has four goals and nine points in four post-season games and is tied with Caedan Bankier for the team lead in playoff scoring. “They’re heavily based off of that and they play really well in their own barn.”

Kamloops bought — acquiring Anaheim Ducks’ prospect Olen Zellweger and Washington Capitals’ prospect Ryan Hofer from Everett — at the trade deadline and posted a 26-6 record after acquiring the new toys, with one win over Portland, 5-1 on Feb. 1 at Sandman Centre.

The Winterhawks traded away defenceman Nicholas Andrusiak and forward Dawson Pasternak at the deadline. They also sent conditional picks to Prince Albert in exchange for overage forward Ozzy Wiesblatt, the San Jose Sharks’ prospect who remains in the American Hockey League with the San Jose Barracuda.

First-round NHL Draft pick Chaz Lucius,

a 19-year-old forward and Winnipeg Jets’ prospect, was lost for the season in February due to shoulder surgery, a considerable blow to the club’s offensive production.

Portland posted a 13-19 mark after the trade deadline.

The Oregon club scores by committee up front, with Gabe Klassen, Robbie Fromm-Delorme, James Stefan, Jack O’Brien, Kyle Chyzowski and Marcus Nguyen among key contributors.

“They’re well-coached,” Blazers’ associate coach Don Hay said in a nod to his friend and former coaching partner Mike Johnston. “They play an up-tempo, fast game. They look to create offence. They look to make plays. They’re a very dangerous team to play against. If you have a letdown, they’ll strike quick.”

Hay, who oversees the Blazers’ defencemen, is pleased with progress made by third-pair Aapo Sarell, a Finnish import, and Harrison Brunicke, a 16-year-old rookie, both among depth players who will be tested more than they were in the Vancouver series.

“I’ve been really happy with Aapo and

Harrison,” Hay said. “They’ve really given us some good, quality minutes. They’ve really learned the playoff mentality and how critical it is to be effective when you’re on the ice and how important it is just to make the simple play and stay out of trouble.”

The Winterhawks’ defence corps is led by Luca Cagnoni, a dangerous offensive threat, Florida Panthers’ prospect Marek Alscher and Pittsburgh Penguins’ prospect Ryan McCleary.

Johnston opted to go with 18-year-old import goaltender Jan Spunar between the pipes in Round 1. Dante Giannuzzi, 20, handled the lion’s share of action during the regular season.

“We feel we have two goaltenders that can play in any playoff series for us,” Johnston said. “Both have had limited playoff experience in our league. It’s a situation where went into the playoffs trying to evaluate every position on our team and we felt it was close between Dante and Jan, and we decided to go with Jan to start the series.”

See JOHNSTON, A26

Kamloops Blazers’ forward Ashton Ferster takes Aidan Litke of the Portland Winterhawks for a ride on Feb. 1 at Sandman Centre. The Blazers will play host to the Winterhawks in Game 1 of their Round 2 WHL playoff series on Friday, a 7 p.m. start at Sandman Centre.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Johnston says Winterhawks comfortable on Kamloops ice

Spunar, the-6foot-3 goaltender from Olomouc, Czechia, posted a 4-1 record in Round 1, with a 2.13 goalsagainst average and .928 save percentage.

“We haven’t seen him a ton, but there is lots of video,” Clouston said. “We’ll definitely watch for strengths and weak-

nesses and tendencies. In general, we want to get the puck to the net and get lots of traffic.”

Kamloops’ No. 1 netminder, Dylan Ernst, produced sparkling numbers against the Giants in limited work, posting a 4-0 record, including two shutouts, with a 1.16 GAA and .946 save percentage.

Hofer racked up a team-leading five goals in the first round and made an impact physically. Zellweger

was dynamic and tallied eight points, including the series-clinching OT winner on April 6. Emerging 17-year-old forward Emmitt Finnie is riding a 14-game point streak.

Matthew Seminoff and Jakub Demek compiled six helpers apiece in the first round. Shea Van Olm, Dylan Sydor and Nathan

MacPhersonRidgewell were impactful on the fourth line.

MacPhersonRidgewell seems likely to draw out of the lineup, with the Blazers expecting the return of two injured NHLdrafted forwards in time for Game 1 on Friday.

Toronto Maple Leafs’ prospect Fraser Minten, who missed the entire Vancouver series, and New York Islanders’ prospect Daylan Kuefler, who did not play in Game 4 against Vancouver, will be at Clouston’s disposal.

“When you look at a team that’s built for the Memorial Cup this

year, and the moves they made at the trade deadline, it’s their depth, No. 1,”

Johnston said when asked about challenges presented by the Blazers. “The second thing is they have some highend players. They are explosive guys that can make a difference on a shift, make a difference in the momentum of the game.”

In Round 1, the Winterhawks boasted the league’s top power play (36.8 per cent) and its sixth-best penalty kill (80.9 per cent).

Kamloops, which had the WHL’s best power play in the regular season (30.1 per cent), was seventhbest in the first

round, clicking at 27.3 per cent. The Blazers’ penalty kill was not stout in the opening round, sitting 13th with a kill rate of 70 per cent.

Portland averaged 4,034 fans over three home games in Round 1.

“It’s a pretty historic building,” Blazers’ defenceman Logan Bairos said of Veterans Memorial Coliseum. “They get a lot of energy from the crowd. We’ve definitely got to manufacture our own energy and take some from their crowd when they’re loud. We’ve got a great crowd. We’ve been sold out or close to over the last couple weeks, so just the same

thing — real loud and a lot of energy.”

Kamloops averaged 4,942 butts in seats over two home games in the first round.

“They have home-ice advantage and I know they’ve had good crowds in, good energy in the building, but I felt our team played well up there this year,” Johnston said.

“I really like our game over the last two years that we’ve played in Kamloops. We feel comfortable on their ice surface. We feel comfortable in that building. It’s going to be interesting how both teams kind of define their territory to start the series.”

MIKE JOHNSTON

PORTLAND VS. KAMLOOPS — A RIVALRY RENEWED

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops and Portland have a rich Western Hockey League history, a rivalry that began when the Blazers were the Junior Oilers in 1981-1982, the club’s first year in the Tournament Capital after a move from New Westminster.

(And the Bruins of New Westminster, led by coach Ernie “Punch” McLean, had an epic history with their Oregon rivals.)

The Winterhawks swept the Junior Oilers 4-0 in the Western Conference semifinal in the first of nine playoff series featuring the teams between 1982 and 1995.

“The two franchises didn’t like each other very much,” said Don Hay, who coached Kamloops in six of those postseason clashes. “We had some pretty good brawls in those series.”

The 12th post-season series between the clubs — Portland holds a 6-5 lead —begins this

week, with Game 1 slated to get underway on Friday, April 14, at 7 p.m. at Sandman Centre.

Hay, now an associate coach for the Blazers, was asked in 2015 about the rivalry during his second tenure as head coach in Kamloops, with many memories popping to mind, including Jarome Iginla and Scott Ferguson’s big goals to win Game 6 and clinch the conference-final series on the road in 1994.

The clubs engaged in a bench-clearing brawl in the

Western Conference final in April of 1994 that will go down as one of the wildest donnybrooks in WHL history.

Chris Murray, now an assistant coach for the Blazers, was in the middle of the action.

“I decided when Darcy [Tucker] got clobbered from behind by Adam Deadmarsh that I wasn’t staying in the box,” Murray, who racked up 695 penalty minutes in 154 WHL regular-season contests, told KTW in 2016. “The closest guy was their goalie, so I grabbed him. It drew a few guys and, unfortunately, our guys were stuck on the other end. I hung in as long as I could.”

Losing to the Winterhawks in the conference final in 1993 was a crushing blow, Murray said, noting Kamloops was outmuscled by Portland in that series.

“In ’94, we ended up against them again,” Murray said. “We weren’t going to let them push us around. Ever. That brawl was the peak of it.”

“Some of us were lunch

bucket guys, even though we had a good team,” Tucker told KTW. “You look at the rivalry between Portland and Kamloops back then . . . It all culminated in that brawl.”

Glass between the benches came down. The coaches got into it. Hay and then-assistant Terry Bangen, who helps out with today’s Blazers, were involved in the tilt. The video is on YouTube.

In 1995, Kamloops jettisoned Portland in the conference semifinal en route to winning the Memorial Cup on home ice.

The teams did not meet again in the post-season until 2012, the series that produced one of the most iconic moments in Kamloops sports history — Game 6.

Bronson Maschmeyer scored with 21 seconds remaining in the third period to push his Blazers — who trailed 5-2 at the second intermission — to a 7-6 victory and force Game 7.

DON HAY

See THE RIVALRY, A29

SPORTS

Blizzard of Freeze Athletics has been dominant this season, claiming first place in every contest entered. The team is one of three from Freeze that has qualified to compete this month in world championships in Orlando, Fla.

Freeze program red hot

For the first time in program history, Freeze Athletics of Kamloops will send three teams to world cheerleading championships in the same year, with competitions

slated to take place later this month in Orlando, Fla.

Madison Brien, Eva Byczek, Sean Mitchell and Cian Watters of Freeze will compete for the 29-person national

youth co-ed team at the International Cheerleading Union World Championships.

Thousands of 11- to 14-year-old Canadians tried out for the squad last summer, with four Freeze athletes selected to compete at the event, which is expected to feature more than 10,000 athletes from 70 countries.

Meanwhile, 16-person Arctic Chill will represent Freeze at the gym level in the Level 5 small co-ed division

at the IASF/USASF

All Star Cheer World Championships.

Cheerleading worlds — which featured 14 teams in 2004 — in 2023 is likely to include about 500 teams and more than 11,000 athletes from 25 countries.

Blizzard — which will take part in the Summit Cheerleading Championships, which is for athletes in levels 1 through 4 — rounds out the Freeze teams preparing to compete on the world stage.

The 17-member, under-16 Blizzard have been dominant this season, claiming first place in every contest entered.

Blizzard earned a fully paid invitation to attend Summit after a Grand Champion performance at the recent Sea-to-Sky Championships in Vancouver. Next week, Blizzard will aim for gold at the Canadian Finals in Niagara, Ont., before making the trip to Florida.

Gill celebrates 50 years

Master Robert Gill is this month celebrating his 50th year in ITF taekwon-do. He is senior vice-president of Life International Taekwon-Do Federation and teaches in Kamloops three nights a week. A seminar and dinner were held in his honour on April 8, with students from across the province attending the event and sending congratulations from across the world.

RAIDERS HOST PLAYOFF MATCH

The Winterhawks prevailed at home in Game 7 and knocked off Kamloops in five games in the conference final in 2013, a series that included Blazers’ forward Chase Souto’s memorable post-game comments directed toward the Portland fan base after his club dropped Game 4 in Kamloops.

“Game 6 here was something I’ll never forget and Kamloops will never forget,” former Blazers’ captain Matt Needham told KTW in 2015. “I remember the ‘bunch of losers’ comment by Souts, too. That was pretty fun. They blew it up pretty big.”

Mike Needham, Matt’s father, toiled at forward for the Blazers from 1986 to 1990 and was an assistant coach for Kamloops from 2011 to 2018.

“The rivalry, the hatred that

Angove to don

Maple Leaf

Sienna Angove of the Kamloops Classic Swimming club has been selected to represent Canada at the World Aquatic Junior Swimming Championships, which will run from Sept. 4 to Sept. 9 in Netanya, Israel.

She was picked based on results at the Bell Canadian Swimming Trials, which wrapped up on April 2 in Toronto.

In the junior division, Angove, 16, won gold in the 50-metre freestyle and 400m individual medley, silver in the 400m freestyle, bronze in the 200m freestyle, placed fourth in the 100m freestyle and 12th in the 800m.

She set six Classics records, establishing new marks in the 50m, 100m, 200m and 400m freestyle and in the 200m and 400m individual medley.

Angove placed ninth in the open women’s 200m IM.

She will represent B.C. at the PanProvincial Open Water Swim Camp and Competition, which will run from May 26 to

you get toward each other, it was extremely intense,” Mike Needham said. “The fans down in Portland are crazy. They love their team. It was extremely loud. You had fans hanging over the bench, screaming and yelling and getting in your ear. It was intimidating to go into that building.”

Recent history includes notable coaching tidbits.

Hay became the winningest head coach in league history when his Blazers doubled the Winterhawks 4-2 in January of 2018 at Sandman Centre, nabbing victory No. 743 to surpass former Portland and Edmonton Oil Kings’ bench boss Ken Hodge.

At the time, Winterhawks’ bench boss and GM Mike Johnston, Hay’s longtime friend, was chasing his 300th win, a milestone he has long since eclipsed.

The Winterhawks hired Hay to be an assistant coach after the four-time Memorial Cup champion’s second tenure as head coach with the Blazers ended unceremoniously in 2018, a departure that meant he would not be around for Kamloops’ bid to host the 2020 national championship (a bid won by Kelowna and kiboshed by the pandemic).

“That’s the Disney scenario,” Hay told KTW in May of 2018. “That would be great if it happened that way, to walk away being the Memorial Cup champion and not have any type of regrets. When I came here four years ago, that was my dream. It didn’t happen.”

After four seasons with the Winterhawks, Hay returned to his hometown in time for a run at the 2023 Memorial Cup, with the tournament slated to

get underway on May 26 in the Tournament Capital — and Kamloops must get past Portland if a league title is in the cards.

“It’s funny how situations change,” Hay said. “In Portland, there’s a lot of good memories. They’re a good group of staff and players. It will be a fun series. They’re well-coached. They play fast. They make plays. They’re not a dump-it-out, dump-it-in type of team. They want to attack and use their speed to create offence.”

Game 2 of the first playoff series between the clubs since 2013 will take place on Saturday, April 15, at Sandman Centre. Portland will host games 3 and 4 on April 19 and April 20 at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

“Our assistant coach Chris Murray brought it up — there

is a lot of history between the two teams,” Blazers’ defenceman Logan Bairos said. “He played in a lot of battles against Portland when he was with the Blazers. Out of all the teams in the Western League, these two teams a have a bunch of history.”

AWARD NOMINEE

Olen Zellweger of the Kamloops Blazers is the B.C. Division nominee for the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the WHL defenceman of the year.

Christoffer Sedoff of the Red Deed Rebels (Central Division), Stanislav Svozil of the Regina Pats (East Division) and Kevin Korchinski of the Seattle Thunderbirds (U.S. Division) are also nominated.

WHL awards winners will be announced in May.

‘The rivalry, the hatred that you get toward each other, it was extremely intense’

Kamloops Classic Swimming Club athlete Sienna Angove will compete for Canada at the world junior swimming championships in Israel.

Kelsey Harpman of the Kamloops Raiders looks for support from captain Jess Oldenburger in B.C. Rugby Union action. The Raiders will host Castaway Wanderers of Victoria in post-season play this Saturday (April 15), with the women’s first-division tilt slated to begin at 3 p.m. at Exhibition Park.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

MARY-BETH HARRISON

Human resources manager at New Gold 10K

“I am a runner.”

It’s not a phrase I openly use to describe myself and maybe not one I will ever be comfortable using. It stirs up imposter syndrome for many of us.

The term “runner” can prompt mental images of Olympic-quality athletes who appear to be pure muscle and zero body fat, people who can run for miles on a whim, people who know how to use fuel gels — all of those things I am not.

I believe this is part of the reason many people are afraid to run, sign up for community event like Boogie or join a run club — because their image of a runner is one who is elite.

Contrary to what is in many of our heads, these images are not correct. Running is not exclusively for zero-body-fat humans. I have completed seven half-marathons and still do not properly consume gels or hydrate.

Like most worthy endeavours, it takes practice and trial and error. Over the years, I have learned that a banana is all I can consume before a run, that shoes matter (yes, pick the colour you like or you won’t wear them, but make sure they are the appropriate shoe for your body), that interval training makes me faster than straight running alone and that everyone, regardless of speed or body type, can be a runner.

While you may think you run like Phoebe Buffay, it’s highly unlikely. Either way, I’d love to run with you at Boogie on April 23!

NATHANIEL

MARTIN Millwright at Teck Highland Valley Copper 21K

Do you have your routine down? No? Hey, give yourself a pass. Did you mess up and are you having a hard time resting because of it? Forgive yourself, make amends if you can, rest easy and run or work out. Get those endorphins cycling.

This is that last week of going for it, that last week when you should get that game day plan together, from your pace to your nutrition prior, during and after your run. The biggest part of a longer run is getting what you need in your body before you need it, be it gels, gummies or an electrolyte drink. Go talk to staff at Runners Sole if you need some insight into nutrition and what shoes to wear because you don’t have much time left to break them in.

I’m finding that the best way for me to get through this is a bit of cross-training: swims, squats, pushups, squats,  planks, hill runs, ankle strengthening exercises and squats.  There is plenty of focus on the journey ahead. Solidify in your mind and body that you got this — you really do. It’s only time on your feet, after all. The distance will sort itself out.

I also do this all the time. I pick targets up ahead as goals that can be reached — a lamp post, a corner, a parked car. They are things to focus on during your run or walk break. You then find the next target, rinse, wash and repeat, and, before you know it, you’re rounding the last corner to all the cheers, with the finish line in sight.

To all the families and friends of these amazing athletes challenging themselves for the first or 100th time — they need you, too.

Cheer them on now and at Boogie. Let them know they don’t run alone.

ACACIA PANGILINAN Executive director at Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce 5K

Boogie the Bridge is quickly approaching and training is starting to feel a bit harder, but I am not discouraged.

When training first started, I was challenged by running as it felt like I couldn’t go very far or for very long. However, with each passing week, I can feel myself getting stronger and building up endurance. For me, it has been a slow and steady process, but I am making progress. The RunClub crew has a mantra — some days you are the rock and some days you are the star — and it is a perfect way to describe my experience.

In the latest week of training, I am feeling the burn of the harder runs. In a RunClub run this past week, there was a large group of us running through residential neighborhoods in downtown Kamloops and the first part of the route had some hills. My legs felt heavy, I felt as though I was more winded than normal and it was tough.

Experienced RunClub members reminded us when we reached our turnaround point, “some days you are the rock and some days you are the star” — and it was exactly what I needed to hear.

Special shout out to coach Viera for keeping our crew together. We had a large number of people at different paces and she did a great job of making sure we all kept together and ended together.

As I approach the last two weeks of training, I know it will only get harder, but I am ready. I’m continuing to build up my endurance, strength and determination and am excited for Boogie day.

We are heading into the final weeks of Boogie training.

It always goes by so fast. “Impossible” is no longer in the minds or vocabularies of those heading into week 6 of training.

Last Tuesday night, we started and finished at the wonderful Noble Pig downtown. This was a celebration night for those of us doing Boogie training.

While we sat breaking bread and sharing our experiences, one of the newer members of RunClub shared that her joy was returning in her life. She felt lighter and the joy she was feeling was an incredible surprise for her as she committed to movement.

I had tears in my eyes as I listened to her share with me. This is it. This is the currency our Boogie team wants for every single person who has the courage to start.

As you all know, this runner has always run for mental health. I have shared so many stories over the years of overcoming anxiety, depression, grief and, yes, finding joy.

This past week was a tough one. We lost our sweet dog Isabelle (age 16) and, before her, our Toby (age 17)  and Piper (age 10). Isabelle was the last of our precious  three musketeers to cross the rainbow bridge. Toby was the best running dog I ever had and losing all of them now has been heartbreaking for us Berrys.

All of you dog owners know this journey and the grief involved when we lose our fur babies.

Once again, I laced up my running shoes to get outside and move through my grief and feelings, to shed tears and feel those pups running beside me (all three of them). Movement helps us expel energy out of our bodies, tap into what’s important and help us  cope through the tough parts of life.

For many, Boogie the Bridge is often a bridge between grief and finding joy again. Movement is Change.

Dig It: Spring break on Florida’s Treasure Coast

Spring break sees many people travelling to places for sun and surf. For an archaeologist, Florida’s landscape has much to offer, including submerged sites ranging from shell middens (refuse piles) and habitation sites to sunken steamboats and ships.

Since Florida has one of the longest continuous coastlines in the United States and a vast system of rivers and caverns, there are numerous underwater archaeology sites.

For someone interested in learning more about maritime archaeology, you may want to consider a visit to the Treasure Coast, just south of Cape Canaveral. It acquired the name from numerous shipwrecks that rest along the coast.

On a recent trip in March, I visited the Mel Fisher Treasure Museum in Sebastian, which displays some of the treasure recovered from diving expeditions to the Nuestra Señora de Atocha. This ship, sunk in international waters,

was part of a Spanish treasure fleet of 11 ships that left Havana in 1622, en route to Spain, filled with millions of dollars in silver and gold.

The fleet was caught in an Atlantic hurricane and sunk off the east coast of Florida. Salvage of the cargo was attempted shortly after the sinking in 1622, but subsequent hurricanes that year scattered the wreckage, making recovery difficult. The cargo was not recorded and salvaged until the 1985 to 1990 expeditions.

Although this salvage expedition occurred in international waters, shipwrecks and treasure-hunting along Florida’s coast are subject to state laws.

Florida law prohibits the excavation or removal of artifacts from submerged sites within the state’s land and coastlines.

Companies and researchers can apply for exploration and recovery permits if an applicant has met the professional requirements.

The protection of Florida’s maritime heritage is administered by the Bureau of Archaeological Research, which employs a state underwater archaeologist and several assistants who work with

the public, the sport diving community, universities, colleges and museums to examine and interpret underwater sites.

They conduct surveys and excavations on both prehistoric and historic sites located offshore and in rivers and sinkholes.

In 1987, Florida began to develop a statewide system of underwater parks at shipwrecks and other sites. The shipwreck preserves have become popular attractions for divers to see archaeological features and marine life. These underwater parks are intended to be enjoyed by the public and the local diving community who are interested in marine life, history and archaeology. Each site is marked by an underwater plaque and laminated underwater guides are also available from local dive shops.

Today, Florida has established 12 underwater preserves that offer public access, favourable diving conditions and access to cultural and natural site features.

Nadine Gray is a Kamloops based archaeologist. Interested in more? Go online to republicofarchaeology.ca.

L A ST C H

NADINE GRAY SPECIAL TO KTW

A diver examines gold bars and chains on the site of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha shipwreck. PAT CLYNE/MEL FISHER MUSEUM PHOTO

LOCAL NEWS

Low level prompts Shuswap Lake warning

APRIL DATA SHOWS LOWER-THAN-USUAL MEASUREMENTS; CAUTION ISSUED FOR BOAT LAUNCHES

Shuswap Lake may have reached a new low for April.

City of Salmon Arm data show the lake’s level has stayed between 344.5 and 345 metres since December 2022.

As of April 1, it was at 344.772 m, the lowest measurement for this date reflected in the data, which includes consistent measurements from 2003 to present. It’s also lower than AprilMay measurements from 1996 to 2000.

By and large, the lake, as of April 1, is typically above the 345-metre mark. The only time in the data when it’s been lower than 344.772 m was December 2022, when it went as low as 344.751 metres.

The low lake level recently prompted the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) to issue a warning to the public about the use of several boat launches, including at Magna Bay in the North Shuswap, the Harbour and Whitehead road launches in the South Shuswap, the Markwart Road boat launch in Sorrento and the Windsor Road launch in Swansea Point.

“Using the launches at this time could damage your boat. Please do not attempt it,” the CSRD warned.

According to the provincial gov-

ernment’s March 1 snow survey and water supply bulletin, the province experienced La Niña conditions this winter, meaning increased late season snowfalls and the delayed onset of snowmelt.

“By March 1st, nearly 80% of the seasonal snowpack has accumulated, on average,” the bulletin reads. “With a couple of more months of potential snow accumulation, seasonal snowpacks can still change significantly based on weather.”

As of March, snowpack throughout B.C. ranged from 59 per cent to 124 per cent of normal. In the South Thompson Basin, where Salmon Arm is located, snowpack was at 105 per cent of normal, while the North Thompson was at 91 percent of normal.

The next snowpack report will be released on April 12.

Looking ahead to spring freshet, Tom Hansen, co-ordinator for the CSRD’s Shuswap Emergency Program, said the main variables that affect what happens now are how quickly the temperature warms up, and for how long, and how much rain falls, especially rain on snow during freshet.

“Localized heavy rainstorms can increase the risk of flash flooding or debris flows on steep creeks and smaller systems,” Hansen said.

Council decides on how to spend $15-million grant

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

An ice rink in Riverside Park, a pedestrian overpass across Summit Drive and setting aside dollars to plan for future largescale projects — such as a performing-arts centre — is how Kamloops city council has opted to spend a windfall of provincial cash.

The municipality received $15.7 million as its share of the $1-billion provincial Growing Communities Fund distributed to all 188 B.C cities and regional districts this year.

During a committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, April 11, council pondered three strategies for the funds — using it on Build Kamloops initiatives, spending it on current infrastructure projects or investing the funds — and ultimately opted for a bit of each. Coun. Mike O’Reilly is on vacation and was not at the meeting, while Coun. Kelly Hall participated via Zoom.

Council opted to spend the money on two of eight current infrastructure projects proposed by staff that were either already planned for or previously proposed to councils.

Council voted unanimously, 7-0, to implement a Riverside Park skating rink for $5.4 million. Coun. Nancy Bepple abstained from the vote due to a conflict of interest as she is a member of the Kamloops Outdoor Skating Association.

The previous council sought a grant for funding the project, but when it was not successful, opted to move ahead with improvements in the park. The rink was put on ice, with the spray park and washroom/change rooms replaced at a cost of $3.25 million, compared to the approximate $4.3 million anticipated for the skating rink project.

Staff noted that previous work, which will be completed later this year, included piping to allow for the installation of a future skating rink should that part of the project move ahead.

Before approving the project, councillors, including Bill Sarai and Hall, questioned whether Riverside was the best place for the ice. The rink project is intended to serve as a permanent winter amenity to complement the summer’s spray pad, driving people to the park during winter months when Riverside does not see much attendance, Chief administrative officer David Trawin told council.

Council also voted unanimously, 8-0, to set aside $5 million for a Summit Drive pedestrian and bicycle overpass connecting Thompson Rivers University and its off-campus student housing, so that it may be built faster than its current 2027-2028 fiscal year projection. The project is a key linkage in the municipality’s active transportation plan and would cost an estimated $10 million, with TRU chipping in half the cost.

One option presented to council was to use the grant to pay down the municipal debt to free up space for projects identified in the city’s Build Kamloops initiative, which

will require debt financing in the future.

Those include a performing-arts centre, a new leisure pool on the North Shore, additional ice rinks, a large curling club facility to accommodate consolidation of both current curling clubs, converting at least one soccer field at McArthur Island to a yearround multi-use artificial field, a new RCMP detachment and a new civic administration building.

Council voted unanimously, 8-0, to spend $1 million of the grant on plans for the design, costs and location of such infrastructure.

Council then opted to save the remaining $4.3 million, with the intent of it going towards the Build Kamloops projects in the future.

The decision came at the request of Coun. Katie Neustaeter, who felt it would balance out the movement of the money.

“This way, we’re able to do some of the fast work, some of the longer-term work,” she said.

LACHLAN LABERE SALMON ARM OBSERVER

As of April 1, Shuswap Lake was at 344.772 metres. The low lake level recently prompted the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District to issues this public warning: “Using the launches at this time could damage your boat. Please do not attempt it.”

LACHLAN LABERE/SALMON ARM OBSERVER

• Well maintained manufactured home with 2 bedroom 1 bathroom and built in 20`04

• Nice flat and fenced yard

• Pad fee of $600/month

• Centrally located apartment in The Manor House with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom

• 55+ building with no pets allowed

• Quick possession possible

• Immaculately kept 2 bedroom 2 bathroom modular in Gateway Estates

• Low bareland strata fee of $110/month

• Move in ready

• Nicely updated 2 bedroom 2 bathroom townhouse in Wedgewoods

• Centrally located close to all amenities including Thompson Rivers University

• 2 pets allowed with strata permission

• Spacious 4 bathroom 3 bathroom halfduplex in walking distance to amenities

• Fully finished daylight basement

• Quick possession possible

• Beautifully updated level entry 2 bedroom 2 bathroom townhouse in Brigadoon

• Many updates throughout including kitchen and flooring

• Great central location

• Well cared for 1+2 bedroom 2 bathroom bareland strata in Glencairn Hill

• Lots of updated throughout

• Bareland strata fee of $160/month

• Beautifully updated and maintained 2+1 bedroom 3 bathroom home

• Fully finished walk-out basement with separate entry

• Many updates through including furnace, hot water tank , flooring, and more

• Great family home and area with 3+2 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms

• Daylight walk-out basement

• Nicely maintained and

yard with patio and sundeck

• Custom built 5 bedroom 4 bathroom home in the heart of downtown Kamloops

• Fully finished basement with separate entry

• Fenced yard with large covered deck

• Fabulous location in this 3+1 bedroom 3 bathroom home in Sahali

• Rancher style with main floor laundry

• Partially finished basement with separate entry

Animals sold as "purebred stock" must be registrable in compliance with the Canadian Pedigree Act.

•

•

• Maintaining potable water provided to customers within operating condition perimeters

•

ent del very of a range of services related to water wastewater propane roads and drainage systems snow clearing opera@ons maintenance of publ c infrastructure and bu lding inspec@ons

Supported by 11 direct reports ncluding 7 members of the U@ i@es team 3 members of the Public Works team and the Bui ding Inspector you wi l prov de eadersh p to ensure that Sun Peaks nfrastructure is well mainta ned through effec@ve planning and u@ iza@on of resources You w ll coordinate with the CAO in order to prior @ze the mplementa@on of Cap tal Work Projects

Having recent y completed our water and wastewater masterplans th s pos @on will be respons ble for the development of infrastructure system upgrades to support our growing community

Where is the Job?

At a base e eva@on of 1,255m the unique European inspired walkable vi lage is located 45 minutes from Kam oops in Bri@sh Columbia s beau@fu interior With 1,500 permanent res dents, the commun ty has a unique sk - n/ski-out school, medica centre and is a perfect community for the outdoor enthusiast

What You’ll Do:

You wil manage the department ’s opera@ng budget and work col abora@vely with var ous vendors You w ll lead the team responsible for the proper maintenance of municipal facili@es systems and equipment; and you can be available for emergencies when needed Under your eadersh p the U@l @es and Public Works crew wil carry out du@es n:

Water treatment and distribu@on

Sewer treatment and co lec@on

• Culvert and ditch maintenance

• Road sidewalk and ditch ma ntenance

• Snow and ice control

Public inquiries and requests

What You’ll Get in Return:

An outstanding opportunity to help build a un que community

An annual wage of $95,000 – $130,000 depend ng upon qualifica@ons and experience

• A comprehensive benefits package including annua ski pass

What You’ll Br ng:

• Val d Class 5 Driver ’s License

• Professiona engineering or applied science designa@on or a combina@on of training and re evant experience

• Exper ence as a Manager or Supervisor

• Knowledge of water/wastewater opera@ons

Ab lity to use basic

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on TUESDAY, April 18, 2023 at 6:30 p m in the COUNCIL CHAMBERS, #1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake, in order to afford all persons who believe that their interest in property is affected by the following amendment to Zoning Bylaw 675, an opportunity to be heard or to present written submissions respecting matters contained in this amendment

ZONING AMENDMENT BYLAW 905, 2023

The intent of this bylaw is to rezone the property legally described as Lot 32, DL 2217, Kamloops Division Yale District, Plan KAP32012 and located at 254 Calcite Drive, Logan Lake, BC from Single Family Residential (R1) zone to Two Family Residential (R2) zone as shown in bold on the map below:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

A copy of the above bylaw and relevant background documents are available for inspection between the hours of 8:30 a m to 4:00 p m , Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, from April 3, 2023 to April 18, 2023 inclusive, at the District Office, #1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake, BC

For further information concerning this matter you may contact the Chief Administrative Office at 523-6225 or via email at warchambault@loganlake ca

Dated at Logan Lake, BC this 30th day of March, 2023

Wade Archambault

Chief Administrative Officer

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality NOTICE OF PUBLIC PRESENTATION

Friday April 21, 2023 at 6 PM

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipal Council gives notice that it will hold a Public Presentation at the Sun Peaks Centre located at 3200 Village Way, Sun Peaks to present the 2023-2027 5 Year Financial Plan The presentation will also be live streamed on our Facebook page The full p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e m a d e a v a i l a b l e f o l l o w i n g t h e presentation on the municipal website.

Questions, comments and feedback can be forwarded to Cheryl Taylor-Gale at dof@sunpeaksmunicipality ca

www.sunpeaksmunicipality.ca

Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipa Council gives not ce that it wil hold a virtual Public Hearing via Zoom and ivestreamed on the municipal Facebook page to consider proposed amendments to conditions on existing Temporary Use Permits.

The Local G o v e r n m e n t A c t requires that neighbourhood notification of the proposed amendments to temporary use permit conditions be issued

What Amendments Are Being Proposed?

Council has given two readings to Business L censing and Regulat on Bylaw No

0203 2023 that includes amendments to maximum occupancies in all short-term nightly rental properties, whether rezoned or holding a Temporary Use Perm t (TUP) from two peop e per bedroom to:

• Single and Duplex Dwe lings

o Main Dwelling or Ma n Dwelling and Suite – 2 peop e/bedroom + 4 to a maximum of 16 people;

o Suite Only – 3 peop e/bedroom

• Condo/Townhouse Propert es o 2 People per bedroom + 2

In addition to the Business License requirements, current short-term nightly rental temporary use permits for single and dup ex dwellings also include conditions limiting occupancy and the number of parking stalls. Council is proposing to also remove max mum park ng requirements The new bylaw wi l require amendments to these conditions.

What Temporary Use Properties May Be Impacted?

Burfield Drive

• 1328 Burfield Dr – Strata Lot B, D strict Lot 5957 KDYD Strata Plan EPS4902

• 1361 Burfield Dr - Strata Lot 1, District Lot 5957 KDYD Strata Plan KAS1989

• 1364 Burfield Dr - Strata Lot A District Lot 5957 KDYD Strata Plan KAS3699

Sunburst Estates

• 2216 Sunburst Dr – Lot 8, Distr ct Lots 6259 and 6337, KDYD, Plan KAP53479

• 2224 Sunburst Dr - Lot 12, District Lots 6259 and 6337, KDYD, Plan

KAP53479 Fairways Drive

• 2432 Fairways Dr – Lot 4, District Lot 6394, KDYD, Plan KAP72546

• 2451 Fairways Dr – Lot 12, District Lot 6421, KDYD, P an KAP70975

• 2453 Fairways Dr - Lot 13 District Lot 6421 KDYD Plan KAP70975 Mountain View Drive

• 2508 Mountain View Dr - Lot 31, District Lot 6449, KDYD, Plan KAP76953

• 2533 Mountain View Dr - Lot 9 D str ct Lot 6451 KDYD Plan KAP76953

• 2545 Mountain View Dr - Lot 12, District Lot 6451, KDYD, Plan KAP76953

• 2560 Mountain View Dr - Lot 18, District Lot 6451, KDYD, Plan KAP76953

Sundance Estates

• 4109 Sundance Dr - Lot 5, District Lot 6360, KDYD, Plan KAP58754

• 4123 Sundance Dr - Lot 4 District Lot 6395 KDYD Plan KAP65775

• 4131 Douglas Crt - Lot 4 District Lot 6410 KDYD Plan KAP 67926

• 4151 Douglas Crt - Lot 11 District Lot 6428 KDYD Plan KAP72523

Will Properties Rezoned to Permit Tourist Accommodation be Impacted?

Yes. Once adopted new parking and occupancy regulations in the new Business Licensing and Regulation Bylaw wi l apply to all short-term nightly rental properties.

A l persons who believe that their interest in property may be affected by the proposed changes to temporary use permits shal be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the Public Hearing Additionally they may make written submissions on the matter of this Bylaw (via any of the below options) which must be received at our office pr or to 4:00 p m on the 14 h day of April 2023 The entire content of all subm ssions will be made public and form a part of the publ c record on this matter

How do I get more information?

A copy of the proposed changes and al supporting information can be nspected from 8:30 a m to 4:00 p m Monday - Fr day at our office until 4:00 p m the day of the Hearing; or please contact us via any of the below options. P ease contact Nicky Jonsson to rece ve Zoom access.

No representations wi l be rece ved by Council after the Publ c Hearing has been concluded

Nicky Jonsson Director of Corporate Services

Phone: 250-578-2020

Email: adm n@sunpeaksmunicipality ca Website: www sunpeaksmunicipality ca

7:00 PM Wednesday April 19, 2023 Legal

Visit

Celebration of Life for Patrick Kavanagh

A Celebration of Life for Patrick Kavanagh will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops, 540 Victoria Street. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

Dorothy Daniels

1943 - 2023

A Memorial Tea will be held on Saturday, April, 15, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Kamloops Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

250-554-2577

Mary Kathleen (Kay) Allan

September 23, 1941 - January 4, 2023

Kay is survived by his siblings Red (Helen), Raymond (Lynn), Dave (Marilyn), Barb (Pat), Marilyn, Kenny, Ronnie, Danny (Leeann) and Courteney

Bert (Hebert) Weber

April 26, 1946 - March 18, 2023

Bert (Herbert) Weber, 76, of Kamloops, BC, passed away in his sleep at home on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Bert is survived by his wife, Marlene Weber, daughter Terresa Carlgren, and son Chuck Weber He is also remembered by his son-in-law Dave Carlgren, and four grandchildren: Charlie Weber, Hannan Carlgren, Cooper Weber, and Cayley Carlgren.

Bert loved to spend time at his cabin in Salmon Arm, fishing, and visiting with friends. He was a competent craftsman and took pride in inventing, designing, and building practical structures and machines that could help him and those around him. Bert enjoyed travelling with his wife Marlene in their motorhome, and frequently stopping to have a drink and an ice cream The many people who loved and understood Bert acknowledge that he may have been gruff on the outside, but had a heart of gold. He will be dearly missed.

An intimate celebration of life may be organized at a later time and any condolences are appreciated by the family

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

Hanna Elizabetha Gruenefeld

A sk

Drake Smith, MSW Funeral Director

Ever y Wednesday in K T W!

Q. It’s been a whole day. Is Murray’s cremation finished yet?

A. In BC , a person cannot be cremated until 48 hours after their death. T hat’s the law. Also, we can’t cremate Mur ray without w r itten author it y from the executor or NOK. Verbal instructions over the phone are not enough.

Drake Cremation & Funeral Services

210 Lansdowne • 425 Tranquille Rd. 250-37 7-8225 • Drake Cremation.com

AFFORDABLE & NO BL ACK SUITS

A Memorial Tea will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in the Schoening Chapel Tea Room, 513 Seymour Street.

Celebration of Life for Betty Muench

We announce with sorrow the passing of Hanna Elizabetha Gruenefeld who died peacefully in her sleep on February 19, 2023, in Grand Forks, BC. Best known simply as “Hanna” to her many friends, she was born in southern Germany on March 31, 1926 and immigrated to Montreal, Quebec, with her husband Otto in 1954.

The Muench Family will be holding a Celebration of Life for Betty Muench

It will be held in the Dogwood Room at the Cottonwood Manor at #307730 Cottonwood Ave in North Kamloops on Saturday, May 20th, from 1:00 P M to 4:30 P M It will be a time to reminisce and meet up with old friends

Peter Baron Celebration of Life

Peter loved spending time with others and exchanging stories. To continue Peter ’s fondness for gathering and reminiscence, please join us to share and trade stories as we honour his memory

When: May 6, 2023, Saturday, 10am – 12 noon

Where: Lobby of the Sagebrush Theatre

1300 9th Avenue, Kamloops, BC

Provided: Tea, coffee, and snacks

In 1976, accompanied by their two daughters, they continued westward to White Rock, BC., then to a quarter-section near Chase Creek before finally retiring to Kamloop’s Aberdeen hills in 2006 Hanna was predeceased by Otto who passed away on July 9, 2015.

KTW is looking for warehouse space for distribution

CWC

We need approximately 1,500 sq ft of flat, dry space one night a week to receive a 45’ trailer, offload skid cages of newspapers and transfer loads to our local drivers in smaller delivery vehicles. We typically receive between 16 and 18 skids

We have an onsite supervisor who co-ordinates the unloading and loading.

Typically the work happens between midnight Tuesday and 10:00 am Wednesday but it can go longer if we have bad weather, highway closures or heavier papers.

•

We are open to renting or subletting space in a suitable location or subcontracting the receiving operation to a logistics operator

We store a forklift and a skid of stacked pallets on the site.

May the Sunshine of Comfort Dispel the Clouds of Despair Love’s greatest gift is remembrance.

For more information contact Ray Jolicoeur at: 250-371-1333

Emma Kiss 1936 - 2023

On March 14, 2023 Mrs. Emma Kiss of Kamloops passed away at the age of 86 years.

Emma is survived by her loving children: two sons, Leslie (Karin) Kiss of Silver Star and Peter (Tara) of Kamloops; two grandchildren, Annika and Karrie Kiss of Kamloops. Predeceased by her husband Bill and son David.

Emma was born on August 15, 1936 in Balm, Alberta. She moved to Edmonton at the age of six and where she resided until marrying her husband Bill on May 5, 1956. They later moved to the Kamloops region in 1957 and resided there pursuing a career in carpentry and hobby farming. Emma was known for her farm fresh eggs.

Vizont Latasra — Until we meet again.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to the Pine Grove staff and Drs. Sigalet and Thomasse for their care and compassion.

A Celebration of Emma’s life will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 1:30 pm at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Kamloops. Reverend Pastor Steve Filyk officiating.

Donations in Emma’s memory may be made to the SPCA or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

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

Marlene Irene McCallum

March 15, 1942 - April 2, 2023

Marlene passed away on April 2, 2023 at Royal Inland Hospital.

She is survived by her 3 children: Ronald, Lore and Daniel (Michelle); and 3 grandchildren: Kaitlin, Jessica and Robert. Marlene will also be missed by her siblings Milton (Mel), Joyce, Orrin, Don, Bill, and their families, and her cat Caesar as well as newly adopted Pintobean. Marlene was predeceased by her brother Ross.

Marlene, mom grew up on a farm outside of Carmen, Manitoba, where she had fond memories with her brothers and sister She loved watching her horse races, as that is what she did with her dad when she was younger Mom loved baking, it was so nice coming home to the smell of fresh baked bread, as well she enjoyed gardening; for the flowers it was the Pansies and Petunias. And curling, when it was on TV, there was no changing the channel. When I would be cooking, mom would, as I say “hover over” to check and make sure nothing was getting dirty or messy After she would just say, I just cleaned that! Another pastime was playing Scrabble.

The family would like to thank Amber and Tyler Dunn, David Christie, and Don Clovechok for all their help and support. Also thanks to the nurses and doctors on 5 North at RIH for their care.

No formal service is being held as per her request.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to Kamloops SPCA.

Condolences may be left at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

Keiko (Kay) Mori (née Nagai)

April 2, 1941 - November 20, 2022

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 11:00am at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 1136 6th Avenue, Kamloops, BC

Gently, and surrounded with love, our Mother & Grandmother, Keiko Mori, passed peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, November 20, 2022. Keiko had been a loving & nurturing mother to her children Sandra (Donald Wood), Derek (Janice Yakura) and Allison (Peter Ferras). She will be especially missed by her grandchildren Alyssa (Warren Smithies), Ethan and Gavin who each brought great joy to her life. She will also be missed by her brother Eugene (Pam) Nagai and their daughters Jocelyn (Paul) Skublicki and Jennifer (Adam) Morris and their families, her husband’s siblings Betty Morrison, Richard (Delores) Mori, Sally Mori, Dave (Sharon) Mori, Mary Ann (Bill) Johnston, Brian Mori, sister-in-law Cheryl Mori, and numerous nieces and nephews. Kay was predeceased by her beloved husband of 53 years Frank (d.2015), parents Kameo and Kashiku Nagai, her brother Muneo, Frank’s parents Keizo and Michiko, niece Debbie Mori, great nephew Matthew Skublicki, Frank’s siblings Robert Mori, Kathy Reinbold, and Donald Mori, and inlaws Ian Morrison, Debbie Mori, Ray Reinbold, and Polly Mori.

Kay was born in Vancouver in 1941 and was interned with her family in New Denver, BC in 1942. She grew up in Rogers, Donald and Ashcroft. Kay lived in the dorms and graduated from Kamloops Senior Secondary in 1958. She attended Victoria Normal School and began teaching in Kamloops at a very young age. Once married, Kay devoted herself to her husband and family, later returning to work as a teacher-on-call for several years.

Remembered for her numerous talents and generosity, many have received quilts, prayer shawls, knitted hats, sweaters and of course her delicious baking. She specifically loved fabric and was an accomplished sewist and quilter She was a faithful member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church for over 60 years and participated in the Women’s Missionary Society and Presbyterian Women through which many life-long friendships were formed.

Thank you to Keiko’s family, friends, and Church family for their prayers and thoughtful gestures during her brief illness with pancreatic cancer The family is especially grateful for the loving care provided to Keiko by Dr Miranda du Preez and the Doctors and staff at RIH, particularly the team on 5 North.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations made in Keiko’s memory to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Kamloops or the RIH Foundation.

A loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, Keiko will be greatly missed.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

In Loving Memory of Helen Makra (née Sipos)

June 18, 1938 - March 27, 2023

Helen – ILONA (Hungarian given name)

Helen left her home in Kisvarda, Hungary in 1956 and came to Canada with $5.00 dollars in her pocket! She left behind her mother Julianna, sisters Mary, Barbara, Catherine, Julianna, brothers Laszlo and Francis. She came to Kamloops in 1967 and had a wonderful life here. Helen worked as a cook for 42 years and made the best soups and Chicken Paprikash. She loved to work in her yard with all her flowers. Helen also enjoyed camping, walks, meeting people and having (as she said chitchats).

Helen was predeceased by her father Ferenc, mother Julianna, sisters Mary, Barbara, and brother Laszlo.

She leaves behind her 4 children and her grandchildren, sisters Catherine, Julianna, and brother Francis.

Helen will be sorely missed; she was the best ever!

Love you more!

Condolences may be sent to the family at: DrakeCremation.com

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

Shirley Joyce Giesbrecht

Shirley Joyce Giesbrecht, 71, passed away on March 22, 2023 at Vancouver General Hospital. She spent her final days with her loving family and devoted husband by her side.

Shirley was born July 7, 1951, in Drumheller, AB to Charles and Marjorie Edwards. Shirley grew up in Calgary, AB, the second youngest of seven siblings, and spent her formative years surrounded by the love, joy, and support of her family She often recalled fond memories of playing cards and games, and bemoaned the fact that she never could win against her brother Mark.

Shirley had many careers in many places - most notably she loved her job as a florist in Kamloops, and later her work in finance for Wells Fargo and Loans2Go. In her younger years, Shirley loved bowling - she was a part of a league and won a trophy for highest score in a tournament. Her trophy was displayed in her home for many years, and she often recounted her days in the bowling league while she was beating her grandchildren at it later in life. Shirley also loved to play cards - she was competitive to the teeth, and never seemed to remember her losses.

Shirley was blessed with a son, Michael, and two daughters, Kelly and Tanya. She raised her three wonderful children in Kamloops, BC, and they were her pride and joy - the lights of her life. As a mother she was firm but fair, supportive, fun, and most importantly she loved her children entirely, and unconditionally She supported her children through the highs and lows of their lives - ever present, always reachable, and forever devoted. In 1995, Shirley was blessed with her first grandchild, four more of whom arrived in 3 year increments. Brody (son of Michael), Ally, Nathan and Ryan (children of Kelly), and Dylan (son of Tanya), were loved, supported, and absolutely doted on by their grandmother

Later in life, when her children were grown, Shirley moved to the Lower Mainland where she met the love of her life, and her perfect match, Wayne Giesbrecht. Her beauty, charm and wit undoubtedly wooed him instantly, and they were married on August 18, 2007, in an intimate ceremony in Kamloops, BC, surrounded by their friends and family They spent their years together in Delta, BC, running a successful business, having fun at the casino, frequenting their second favourite place: USA Costco, and spending time with their family and friends.

Shirley was strong and tenacious, and endearingly stubborn. She was proud yet humble, and uncommonly generous and kind. She was funny and fun-loving, and brought smiles and laughter with her wherever she went. Shirley had the greatest capacity for unconditional love, which was shared with those who were fortunate enough to be part of her life. She is survived by her husband, Wayne, her sisters Dorothy and Valerie, her children Mike (Kelly), Kelly (Lesley), Tanya (Carson), and her grandchildren, all of whom will honour and remember her every day until they too, join her in peace.

Shirley’s beautiful life will be celebrated and remembered this July 2023, in a private gathering in Kamloops, BC.

Oh Great Spirit

GREASE IS THE WORD AT SAGEBRUSH THEATRE

supporting characters are more fleshed out and there’s more insight into the overall scene,” MacDonald explained.

perform as Johnny Casino.

Cameron is excited to hit the stage.

The Burger Palace Boys and Pink Ladies will soon grace the stage of Sagebrush Theatre in Western Canada Theatre’s latest production, Grease

The classic rock ‘n’ roll musical will premiere in Kamloops on Thursday, April 13, and run through April 29.

WCT will present a hybrid version of the show, a combination of the stage play and the 1978 film that followed.

Artistic director James MacDonald said some of the iconic songs from the film were absent from the original stage play, with the intent of showcasing John Travolta and Olivia Newton John in the 1978 film.

“The stage play has different elements and songs — some

MacDonald said he grew up with Grease, calling the play joyful and full of feel-good music.

In his director’s notes, MacDonald said the play was written at a time when our standards for the depiction of male/female relationships were “substantially different,” but he believes the story holds.

“I love it because, of course, there’s a familiarity to it and people love something that is familiar, but they also want to see a new take on it, with maybe a few more layers to it, something they don’t expect,” he said.

MacDonald will direct the play, helped along by the work of film, television and theatre choreographer Allison Plamondon, who is making her WCT debut, and music director Steven Greenfield, who will also play piano and

The abounding cast and crew includes 17 actors, six musicians and 12 others on the creative team, including directors, managers, designers and engineers.

One of those actors, Shelyse Cameron of Kamloops, will be making her WCT debut with Grease — and the affair is a bit of a homecoming.

Acting since she was nine years old and dancing since the age of three, Cameron has her work cut out for her in the play as part of the ensemble cast, also serving as understudy for three characters: Rizzo, Marty and Patty.

“It’s a lot of pressure, especially for my first musical. I don’t know how I am doing it, but I am doing it,” Cameron said.

“You have the lines and then the blocking and the choreography, plus character research. I have to learn this play four different ways.”

Despite the work involved,

“I watched the film a lot as a kid,” she said. “But for this, I really wanted to take my own approach, since I had the movie version stuck in my head.”

Cameron’s path to the WCT stage has seen her taking on roles on stages in various locales, including across the Atlantic, studying and performing at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art just before the pandemic struck.

Cameron minored in theatre at Thompson Rivers University before heading to Vancouver Acting School.

Past credits in Kamloops include her debut performance at the age 9 of, playing Annie, and a stint with the Rivertown Players.

“A lot of people from Kamloops are going to come watch it and that means a lot to me,” Cameron said.

DATES AND TIMES

Grease will be performed at

Sagebrush Theatre from April 13 through April 29, with no Sunday shows and no show on April 24.

Evening shows will begin at 7:30 p.m., Saturday matinees will begin at 2 p.m. and the Wednesday tea matinee will begin at 10 a.m. with tea, followed by the play at 11 a.m.

Saturday matinees feature paywhat-you-can admission and will be held on April 15, 22 and 29.

Student matinees will be held at 11 a.m. on April 19, 25, 26 and 27.

A pizza pre-show will take place on April 20 at 6:30 p.m., followed by the play at 7:30 p.m.

The post-show artist discussion date is April 20.

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

Tickets for Grease can by found online at kamloopslive.ca, by calling 250-374-5483 or by visiting the Kamloops Live Box Office, east of downtown at Lorne Street and 10th Avenue (inside Pavilion Theatre).

Actress Eva Tavares (left) hits the high notes of “those summer nights” during a rehearsal of the Western Canada Theatre upcoming production of Grease DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Counting sheep while you are still asleep

RESEARCHERS STILL TRYING TO DETERMINE WHAT IS CAUSING SIGNIFICANT HERD DECLINE

Early this Sunday morning (April 16), while many people are still sleeping, a group of early risers will be trying to stay awake as they count sheep.

While that may sound a bit paradoxical, it is precisely what a group of local Kamloops Fish and Game Club members and Thompson Rivers University students intend to do.

The California bighorn sheep count along Kamloops Lake provides important anecdotal population information for the BC Wildlife Branch. It is also an opportunity for club members and students to assist biologists while enjoying hiking and searching for wildlife.

Greg Ashcroft, a retired wildlife biologist who studied bighorn sheep and worked as a provincial biologist for years, is also a Kamloops Fish and Game Club member.

Ashcroft has volunteered to organize the sheep counts for the club in the future. He will be under the guidance of Doug Jury this weekend and will assign small groups to 12 designated zones along Kamloops Lake.

Each group will bring spotting scopes and binoculars and carefully scan the hillsides, looking for sheep. It’s a developed skill and avid hunters and outdoorspeople are usually the most skilled and best-equipped.

The Kamloops bighorn sheep have existed since the ice age about 10,000 years ago. The area along the south-facing slopes of Kamloops Lake provides ideal habitat, with its open grasslands adjacent to protection on nearby rock cliffs.

During the 1800s, they were hunted to near-oblivion by miners and market hunters.

Subsequently, domestic sheep were introduced and flocks peaked at over 100,000 animals. These sheep took over the habitat from the few California bighorns that remained and were wiped out by hunting or disease from domestic stocks.

Decades later, in the 1970s, resident hunters helped reintroduce a small herd of California bighorn sheep to the north side of Kamloops Lake. The herd expanded a few years later and took up residence on the north side of the South Thompson River. Both herds grew to between 300 and 400 sheep.

Jury oversaw the sheep count

from the early 1980s until he retired in 2012. He has seen the sheep populations rise and fall over those years.

Jury said the bighorn sheep along Kamloops Lake and the South Thompson River have their lambs earlier than any other wild bighorn sheep herd in North America, with lamb births recorded as early as late March. Could this somehow be a factor in their decline? Only time and studies will tell.

According to the Wild Sheep Society of BC, the Thompson River bighorn sheep have lost up to 50 per cent of the herds in Kamloops Lake and South Thompson.

Chris Procter, a wildlife biologist in Kamloops, said it has been difficult to pinpoint a cause for the

decline.

The suspected Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovi, a type of pneumonia most harmful to lambs) was a primary suspect; however, initial findings have not supported that theory.

The M. Ovi pneumonia has devastated wild sheep herds along the Fraser River in past years. The disease was brought in by domestic sheep and goats that are more effective at dealing with the disease.

The most effective tool against the disease is to capture wild ewes and euthanize infected females to prevent the spread to newborn lambs. This method has been effective at improving lamb survival, but requires a lot of manpower and money to complete.

Provincial experts have worked with local First Nations, hunting outfitters and conservation groups on these captures.

It’s cooperative efforts like these that must continue in a bid to rebuild the sheep numbers for the benefit of everyone.

Proctor oversaw a project that, with assistance from the Wild Sheep Society of BC. captured and collared 40 female sheep (ewes) during the past two years. It is hoped these tracking devices will shed some light on the declining numbers.

Other possible factors affecting the population decline are loss of habitat, competition from cattle, horses and feral horses and predators such as cougars and coyotes. While poaching is often a factor in wildlife decline, in this case it’s unlikely, given poachers target mature rams and the major decline is in lamb survival.

Another possibility is the loss of good grazing areas by the overgrowth of sagebrush.

Historically, fires burned off the grasslands and removed the tall sagebrush. But with tall sagebrush abundant, sheep may be more vulnerable to predators like coyotes and cougars.

Sheep rely on their keen eyesight to avoid predators, but if they are feeding in tall sagebrush, they lose their ability to see predators from afar. This same lack of fire in sagebrush country could be a factor in the decline of burrowing owls and sharp-tailed grouse, who also thrive in more open grasslands.

Controlled burns, another misunderstood tool, might improve habitat for sheep, sharptailed grouse and owls.

Hosted by Marty Hastings &Chris Foulds

Bighorn sheep are an iconic animal connected to the Kamloops area, but sheep populations have fallen in the past decade, with the reason — or reasons — unclear.

CHRIS PROCTOR PHOTO

Working together in a bid to save bighorn sheep herds

From

Predator control is frowned upon by many, despite it being a viable wildlife management tool. Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc has recognized this fact and is working with provincial experts to reduce coyote predation on the South Thompson sheep herd.

For those who don’t agree with predator control and believe we should leave all wildlife alone, consider that everything we do impacts wildlife in some way, be it whether it be using your phone, driving to work or sitting at home.

For example, electricity in B.C. mainly comes from hydro dams that have eliminated vast areas of critical winter wildlife habitat for moose, elk, deer and many other animals. Hydro dams will eventually fill with silt and produce less power. Two-thirds of electricity worldwide is produced by fossil fuels. Humans have impacted so many species by our presence, mostly in a negative way. However, some species, such as coyotes, have adapted and become a nuisance. Many cats and dogs in Kamloops have been lost to bold predators that have learned to live with us. The same overpopulation of predators is impacting wildlife. Unless we all leave, we should try managing the wildlife to bring them into balance, based on facts, not emotion.

Throughout history groups of hunters and fishers are often the first to support conservation efforts and projects. They, including First Nations, spend more time in the wilderness and understand wildlife better than most.

Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc worked with the province on a five-year pilot project to auction one sheep tag per year and have one sheep tag available through a limited hunting draw.

The pilot project raised hundreds of thou-

BEAR AWARE SEASON IS HERE

Spring is here and that means bears are coming out of hibernation.

As they emerge from their dens, they will be hungry. Unmanaged bear attractants around homes can unintentionally attract bears into neighbourhoods as they sniff out food sources.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

sands of dollars for wildlife management, but it is not known if it will occur again.

Tk’emlúps introduced a band bylaw that makes it unlawful for any band member to take a sheep. First Nations and non-First Nations hunters must continue to work together on projects like that involving the Kamloops bighorn sheep for the benefit of everyone.

For more information on the Kamloops Fish and Game Club, go online to kdfga.ca.

If you observe wildlife violations, record your observations an report them to 1-877-9527277.

Randy Nelson is a retired fisheries officer and author of two books: Poachers, Polluters and Politics and The Wildest Hunt. He lives in Kamloops

The City of Kamloops and the Conservation Officer Service urge the community to take steps to secure attractants, such as garbage, pet food and birdseed, to help prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing them.

Securing attractants is the best way to help keep people, and bears safe.

“Unfortunately, when we do not take precautions to properly secure attractants, it often leads to bears being put down,” said Danielle Sparks, the city’s environmental services coordinator.

“Bears that show minimal

fear of people and that are conditioned to non-natural food sources are not candidates for relocation or rehabilitation because of the high risk to public safety.”

Every year, Sparks said, mismanagement of wildlife attractants leads to the needless destruction of bears.

“Last year, the Conservation Officer Service had to put down six bears in the Kamloops area,” Sparks said. “This is preventable. The City’s Bear Smart program aims to increase awareness of the consequences of not managing attractants and to encourage behaviour that helps keep bears safe and reduces human-bear conflict. We want residents to remember that a fed bear is a dead bear and their actions can save a bear’s life.”

Residents can help keep the community and local bear populations safe by doing the following:

• Keep pet food inside;

• Remove bird feeders from May to November and clean up any spilled birdseed;

• Keep barbecues clean;

• Pick fruit from trees as soon as it ripens and consider removing any unwanted fruit trees. For help harvesting trees, go online to kamloopsfoodpolicycouncil.com;

• Manage backyard composters properly and avoid composting meats and greases.

Residents are also reminded that between April 1 and Nov. 30, garbage and organicwaste carts must not be placed at the curb earlier than 4 a.m. on collection day (and carts must be removed from the curb no later than 7 p.m. year-round).

For more tips on managing attractants, go online to kamloops.ca/bearsmart. Report all sightings and human-wildlife interactions to the BC Conservation Officer Service by calling 1-877-9527277.

The California bighorn sheep count along Kamloops Lake provides important anecdotal population information for the BC Wildlife Branch. It is also an opportunity for club members and students to assist biologists while enjoying hiking and searching for wildlife.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

KTW reader Phil Churchill snapped this photo of a bear visiting his Dufferin neighbourhood back in May 2010.

Dance With Me — and you, too

Non-verbal communication is the epitome of a dancer’s expression and movement, according to Todd Paquin.

The 54-year-old Dance With Me instructor believes the basics of leading and following via non-verbal cues unites dance partners in a seamless conversation on the floor, whether it’s with a one-time partner, a longtime dance companion or your spouse, encouraging others to get involved in the arts.

“It’s a conversation,” Paquin said as he encouraged others to step onto the dance floor. “When you have a strong frame, your partner can feel if you push or pull them in the conversation as you move across the room in any form of dancing.”

Paquin offers weekly ballroom dancing lessons through Dance With Me every Thursday in the Dogwood Room in the North Shore Community Centre, at 730 Cottonwood Ave. in North Kamloops. The evening starts with a lesson at 6:30 p.m., followed by a social dance from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cost is $10 per adult and $7 per student.

Paquin has been focused on teaching a wide variety of dances, including the cha

cha, the foxtrot, the jive, the rumba, the salsa, the samba, the tango, the waltz and the West Coast swing for many years.

He began dancing as a student and said he has made it his lifelong hobby to instruct classes in Kamloops because it helps keep him grounded.

“I started doing my dancing lessons when I was in university, taking my archaeology degree and it was a wonderful step away from being a student,” said Paquin, who is an archaeological consultant and an

occasional contributor to KTW’s biweekly Dig It history columns.

“When you’re dancing, you can think of nothing else than other dancing. It’s a very mindful activity,” he said. “It brought enjoyment into my life. Dancing is all about joy.”

Paquin encourages other dancing clubs to host community events and said he will often attend to build up a sense of camaraderie.

At the recurring weekly Dance With Me sessions, Paquin teaches a few moves from a different dance each week to help diversify the lessons, while allowing novice dancers to partner with more experienced participants.

“It doesn’t matter if you have a particular partner, a spouse or a significant other,” Paquin said.

“My focus is social ballroom dancing and the focus of that is being able to go to a dance and ask anybody at the dance to dance with you and being able to competently lead or follow.”

For more information, visit the Dance With Me Kamloops Facebook page.

Cantabile Singers’ Spring Fling

The Cantabile Singers of Kamloops have turned 30 and are celebrating with a Spring Fling concert on Saturday, April 22. Organizers say the concert will be filled with fun and frivolity, spelled off by small moments of seriousness, with songs about cats, the beauty of nature and a surprising amount of food. In addition, members of the choir will be performing in solos and small groups.

Spring Fling will take place in St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, at 1136 Sixth Ave. in Sagebrush, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 and $10 for youth (under the age of 19) and are available in advance online at cantabilesingers.eventbrite.ca or at the door.

Celebrate BC Wine Month with Save On Foods!

With over 1000 BC Wines, Save On Foods makes it easy to buy local, shop local. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to help you find the perfect wine for any occasion. Stop in and wine a little, you’ll feel better!

Charlene’s pick:

Nostalgia MsBehavin’

This curvy blend of Pinot Gris and Viognier is ready to thrill with ripe, fruity notes and intense flavours of Golden Delicious apple, peach, mango, and cantaloupe. These rich and exotic flavours linger and pair well with roast chicken, sushi, Thai red curry

Nicole’s pick:

Hester Creek PGV

Fabulously fresh, this delightful blend of Pinot Gris and Viognier displays fragrant nectarine and citrus aromas along with a light flintiness. These are followed by juicy Honeycrisp apple, Bosc pear, and zesty lime flavours. An unoaked, snappy blend that pairs beautifully with summer evenings and close friends. Enjoy with light salads with a lime vinaigrette or a poached coastal white fish.

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

Todd Paquin teaching drop-in waltz group lessons for Dance With Me Kamloops at the North Shore Community Centre.

TODD PAQUIN PHOTO

REVISITING THE NICENE CREED

What is the true nature of God?

This is a question that has dominated the Christian church since the very beginning. The controversy still rages and is the source of much division among Christian believers to this day.

One of the early controversies was something known as Arianism. Arius was a very thoughtful and scholarly leader of the early church in Alexandria, Egypt.

He argued that Christ, the second person of the Trinity, was of lesser status than God the Father, a created being.

He cited the scriptures to support his position (e.g. in Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he calls Jesus Christ “the firstborn of all creation”). While having many of the qualities of God the Father, Jesus Christ was only “similar” in nature to Him.

Opponents, such as Arius’ own Bishop Alexander and Athanasius, a deacon at the time who later succeeded Alexander as bishop, strongly disagreed. They insisted Jesus Christ was co-equal with God the Father and of the same “substance.”

The distinction between Arians and non-Arians came down to a single letter — Arians used the Greek word “homoiousis,” meaning “of a similar substance,” while non-Arians used the word “homoousis,” meaning “of the same substance” —”consubstantial” is how it is rendered in English.

Each side had its passionate supporters. Emperor Constantine, who had formally declared Christianity as “officially tolerated” throughout the Empire in A.D. 313 (the Edict of Milan), wanted to promote religious unity through his domains.

To resolve the Arian controversy, he called upon all of the bishops of the Christian Church to hold a council to deal with the issue. They met at Nicea, in modern-day western Turkey (now called Iznik), in 325 A.D. to debate the matter. Constantine not only attended, but chaired the opening session and contributed his own opinions.

The council was dominated by bishops and clerics of the Eastern Church. Pope Sylvester of Rome was quite elderly and unable to travel to the council, but sent two delegates.

The debates got quite heated at times. At one point, Bishop Nicholas of Myra was so incensed that he reportedly slapped Arius in the face (although whether this actually happened is debated among church historians).

The non-Arians were successful in refuting Arius and formulated the now famous Nicean Creed, a definitive statement of what all true Christians must believe.

Arius was banished and Constantine ordered all his writings burned as being heretical.

CHRIS KEMPLING

You Gotta Have FAITH

That did not end the controversy, though. Arius had a great many powerful supporters and some emperors after Constantine were Arian believers. Arianism survived until the seventh century in areas of Germany.

Today, Unitarianism and Jehovah’s Witnesses hold to forms of Arian belief.

A subsequent council meeting in Constantinople in 381 A.D. gave the Nicene Creed its final form and all major branches of Christianity adhere to it:

“I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

“I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him, all things were made.

“For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake, he was crucified under Pontius Pilate.

“He suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in

Kamloops Calvary Fellowship

Sunday Mornings 10:00

Valleyview C entennial Park C ommunity Hall

2288 Park Drive

Pastor Phil Ward All Are Welcome!

C ontact info: kamloopscalvar yfellowship @gmail.com

glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end.

“I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.

“I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.”

KTW welcomes submissions to its Faith page. Columns should be about 700 words in length and can be emailed to editor@ kamloopsthisweek.com. Please include a very short bio and a photo.

Voice 8/$132

Ages 7-12

Learn the basics of melody, rhythm and vocal dynamics in a fun environment with other signers

Kamloops Performance Company

Tue May 2 - June 20 6:30 PM -7:30 PM

Sound Bath Workshop

1/$35

This two-hour experiential workshop teaches students sound healing basics They will be introduced to different healing frequencies produced when Kate plays the crystal singing bowls, will practice how to chant seven different chakra sounds, will soothe their nervous systems by making the sound of the bumblebee and unwind during a 60-minute sound bath meditation

Please bring a water bottle, a mat, items to make yourself cozy and wear comfortable clothing

Valleyview Community Hall

Sat April 29 10:00 AM -12:00 PM

Art Blast

Ignite your creativity and explore shape, colour, abstract, impression, and portrait in this program In this fun environment, you will learn techniques to help you get more out of your artwork Materials included Kamloops Performance Company

Ages 4-6 8/$108

Sat May 6 - June 24

12:00 PM -12:45 PM

Ages 7-12 8/$120

Sat May 6 - June 24

1:00 PM -2:00 PM

Kamloops.ca

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD FOUND ON B7

City of Kamloops

Parish Priest is Re v Fr Chad Pawlyshyn

April 12, 2023

WEEKLY COMICS

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Aries, your emotions may cloud your judgement in the days to come It ’s better to seek the advice of a third par ty who can guide you without the added drama

Messages from the universe could come across as confusing or vague, Taurus You might need someone with cosmic intuition to help you sor t out what is going on

A stagnant energy has been surrounding you lately, Gemini For tunately, you are able to brush that away soon enough and feel rejuvenated

Cancer, if you haven’t devoted enough time lately to taking care of yourself you might awaken this week with a foggy head Take care of yourself

Responsibilities could have you feeling overburdened, Leo The trick is to ask others to lighten your load There are bound to be several volunteers willing to lend a hand

Virgo, tr y not to compare yourself to others this week Ever yone is unique, with his or her own strengths and weaknesses An unfair comparison could dampen your spirits

J o i n t h e A M A Z I N G R A C E

You might find it challenging to ar ticulate your feelings to a romantic par tner, Libra If you stumble over saying the words, why not write them down, instead?

Sometimes your pragmatic side gets into a tussle with your optimism, Scorpio Being a realist doesn’t have to mean you give up hope There are many things that can go your way

Sagittarius, while you may feel like sleeping the week away, awaken to the possibilities before you Numerous opportunities await, so answer the door when they knock.

C

APRIL 12, 2023 - APRIL 18, 2023

It is alright to feel uncer tain about what the hear t wants, Capricorn Not ever yone has things all figured out Ponder your likes and dislikes to determine your path

Aquarius, messy work and small mistakes can sabotage all of your hard work thus far Buckle down and focus on the details Have someone check that ever ything is per fect

People around you may be more temperamental than usual, Pisces Avoid offering any unsolicited advice until things quiet down

H A L L E N G E

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

ZITS by Jerry Scott & Jim Borgman

SHOE by Gary Brookins & Susie Macnelly

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE by Chris Browne

PARDON MY PLANET by Vic Lee

ARCTIC CIRCLE by Alex Hallatt

BABY BLUES by Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

80. The ‘‘L’’ of L V

82. Vegan alternative to gelatin

84. Literary character described as ‘‘a stout little fellow with red cheeks’’

86. What ‘‘X’’ might stand for

87. Prize in a chowder cook-off?

92. Gen Zer who might be into faux freckles and anime 94. Start of many a Father’s Day card 95. Campy stuff? 96. mater 97. Was completely depleted 99. Smartphone, e.g. 101. ‘‘Well, -di-dah!’’

103. You might need just the ‘‘last four’’ of it: Abbr

104. Old-timey wizard who needs to learn some manners?

106. Fly

108. Be overly sweet

109. ‘‘No chickening out!’’

111. Faith founded in Persia

115. ‘‘Black’’ or ‘‘Pink’’ animal

119. Band with the 1997 hit ‘‘SemiCharmed Life’’ .?.? or a phonetic hint to this puzzle’s theme 123. They might wipe the slate clean

124. Spine-tingling 125. Klingon speaker, say 126. Deadlock 127. C-suite members

128. Pots and pans, e.g. DOWN

1 Ballroom-dance moves

2 ‘‘Will do!’’

3 Greek earth goddess

4 Lavender unit

5 Walk in the park ? ? or sit in a park, maybe

BY DAVID KARP

6 Actor Mahershala

7 Lookouts

8 General idea

9 Classy establishment?

10 favor

11 United

12 ‘‘You should know better!’’

13 Encourage

14 Stop the progress of

15 Entree that might be prepared with a brown-sugar glaze

16 ‘‘Gloomy’’ guy

17 What some people use to solve a New York Times crossword

18 German ‘‘you’’ 19 Rx request

24 Slimy stuff

28 Lacquer, e g

30 Home to wild Bactrian camels

32 Clears (of )

33 Lead-in to -logue

34 N F L quarterback Jared

35 Surgery sites, in brief

36 Toronto N B A player

37 Usher

38 Tot’s

SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to

ANSWER: TCREDI

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!

All funds raised by this event benefit literacy programs in Kamloops and are part of our local Raise-a-Reader campaign.