Interior Health’s city-based medical health officer weighs in on the issue
The hockey team is in the Oregon city with a 2-0 series lead
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The big day is April 23 and we have two preview pages
quality of life, attract more doctors and retain the city’s young population.
Kamloops residents may be asked to go to the polls as early as this fall to vote on the municipality borrowing millions of dollars to build a number of infrastructure projects.
Last week, city council unanimously approved spending $1 million on plans for the design, costs, timing and location of lacking infrastructure identified in its Build Kamloops initiative, which includes 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, a new RCMP detachment and a new civic administration building. Coun. Bill Sarai confirmed to KTW that council may seek holding a lone referendum asking the public to approve a plan to borrow funds for most or all of the projects, depending on what those plans ultimately say the cost will be.
He said the price tag could drop depending on available
grants and fundraising opportunities.
“Say it’s a billion dollars. We’ve got to back up, we can’t take that on, but if it’s in the $250 to $300 million [range] and we get some grants in there, put them on the list, let’s go to referendum,” Sarai said of the projects.
Kamloops residents rejected
funding a performing-arts centre in 2015. A second referendum on the project was ultimately scuttled by the arrival of the COVID19 pandemic.
In seeking a mass referendum now, Sarai said he hopes the sports community will not feel left out as the vote will not come down to a project it may not see benefitting its interests.
“What we’re saying is we hear all of you,” Sarai said. “We want all the user groups to come out on the referendum and support it because whatever their interest is, it’ll be in that basket that we all want.”
He said the infrastructure projects in Build Kamloops are needed for Kamloops to “take the next step” as a city, improve
“Absolutely, in my opinion, it will come down to a referendum,” Sarai said. “It will be a referendum on multiple amenities, new and rebuilt, to address all the shortfalls we have in our recreation master plan.”
Sarai said all nine members of council are in agreement on building infrastructure identified in the recreation master plan, the top priority of which is a performing-arts centre.
“It’s time to step up or step out and this council wants to step up,” Sarai said.
While Sarai said council wants to step up, Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson told KTW he has no information on a fall referendum.
“I don’t know much about that, I haven’t heard that,” Hamer-Jackson said of a potential referendum on Build Kamloops initiatives, adding he has not had any discussion about going to a referendum on those initiatives with the council.
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Apr 19, 2023
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 20, 2023 (Cancelled)
10:00 am - Community and Protective Ser vices
May 2, 2023
1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting
May 2, 2023 (Cancelled)
2:00 pm - Community Relations and Reconciliation Committee
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:
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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
• Vicars Road Rail Crossing Nightly closures from April 21–24
To stay up to date on road work projects, visit:
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Are you considering purchasing an electric vehicle (EV ) charger for your home? Or do you live in a building that may be planning upgrades to suppor t EV charging in park ing stalls?
Take advantage of new rebates from the Province and BC Hydro
Several rebate types include a top -up from the City of K amloops for eligible residents.
Learn more at: Kamloops.ca/GoElec tric
Suppor ting the transition to zero - emissions transpor tation suppor ts targets in the Community Climate Action Plan. Learn more at: Kamloops.ca/ClimateAc tion
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!
Learn more, at: Kamloops.ca/BearSmar t
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Did you k now that by applying a few simple FireSmar t principles, your home and proper ty have a greater chance of withstanding wildfire threats?
You can FireSmar t your home by :
• maintaining your landscape and choosing FireSmar t plants for your yard—the FireSmar t Guide to Landscaping can be found online
• enclosing decks with non- combustible materials to discourage the collection of debris and embers
• keeping firewood piles and other items stacked a least 10 m from your home, especially during wildfire season
• ensuring you have a clean, fire -resistant roof and that your eaves are clean
• enclosing soffits and vents to ensure that embers cannot enter them
• removing trees, bushes, and other combustible materials within the first 10 m surrounding your home ( junipers and cedars are par ticularly combustible)
• having a wildfire evacuation plan and mak ing sure ever yone in your household k nows what to do
To request a free FireSmar t assessment, ask questions, view FAQs, watch videos, and more, visit:
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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 Indoor and outdoor seating will be available
A special thanks to the Kamloops Brock Central Lions Club who will once again prep, cook, and ser ve an incredible meal.
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Sign up and speak up at: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca
The BC SPCA has seen a marked increase in the number of puppies surrendered to its care this year, with 350 received.
Eileen Drever, of the BC SPCA said many of the puppies coming are from people who turned to breeding to make money during the height of the pandemic, when the demand
for pets was high, but who are now are overwhelmed with the costs of caring for animals as the market for their puppies has decreased.
Drever doesn’t see the influx slowing down anytime soon.
“There are just too many people who still think this is a good way to earn quick money
and don’t understand the amount of care required and the costs involved,” she said.
“That is why we encourage everyone to make sure they are getting their dogs from reputable breeders. Or, better still, adopt a dog from the BC SPCA or a rescue organization with a good reputation.”
answers, but these are things we need to investigate and try and see if that solves the problem,” she said.
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A bylaw amendment aimed at prohibiting open drug use in public spaces has received pushback from Interior Health and Kamloops councillors are voicing their frustration.
Last week, city council directed city staff to amend its parks and public lands bylaw to ban drug use in public spaces, matching rules for alcohol and cigarette smoking, in response to the provincial government’s pilot program decriminalizing possession of up to 2.5 grams of illicit drugs.
On April 14, Interior Health sent a letter to municipalities, recommending they monitor the effects of the province’s decriminalization pilot project for at least six months before implementing or modifying bylaws.
Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson said he has yet to see any such letter from Interior Health, noting city staff may have received it.
“Maybe it was in an email or something, maybe I missed it, but I don’t recall getting a letter,” Hamer-Jackson said.
Carol Fenton, Interior Health’s medical health officer in Kamloops, has criticized council’s move, saying it is a restrictive intervention that can negatively impact the marginalized who use drugs in public spaces out of necessity.
Fenton said the focus instead should be on less harmful solutions, such as providing more overdose prevention sites where people can safely use illicit drugs. She also suggested expanding the operating hours of those sites outside of regular business hours.
Asked if there is funding for more health care resources like those sites, Fenton told KTW that is outside of her purview.
Coun. Bill Sarai told KTW he agrees with providing more overdose prevention sites. However, he feels it should be the responsibility of Fenton and her staff to expand that service. He suggested they reach out to BC Housing and its shelter operators to make supervised drug use sites in their social housing facilities available to the general marginalized population.
Sarai said it is Interior Health’s responsibility, not the city’s, to help people with mentalhealth and addiction issues. He also took offence at Fenton’s description on Radio NL of council’s amendment as a “hammer.”
“They’ve never been at the table, they’ve never brought solutions. Everything they promote is enabling usage of drugs and that’s got to stop,” Sarai said.
Coun. Stephen Karpuk said Interior Health and the province should be providing more health-care workers and resources to address the issue, rather than simply criticizing the bylaw amendment.
Fenton told KTW that providing funding for overdose prevention sites is typically a provincial responsibility. There are two overdose prevention sites in Kamloops: one downtown run by Interior Health and one on the North Shore run by the ASK Wellness Society.
However, Fenton added, they, like others, are restricted to regular business hours and are indoor injection sites, not inhalation sites, which she said is the most common form of drug usage.
Fenton said it is likely that expanded operating hours, more locations and ones for smoking and/or inhaling drugs are all needed.
“I’m not going to claim that I have all the
Hamer-Jackson told KTW he has reached out to Fenton and intends to discuss the issue of the bylaw amendment.
“It’s one of those things we have to look into a bit because we don’t want to get into a situation where we’re going to spend a lot of money trying to do something we’re not going to be able to do anyways,” Hamer-Jackson said.
The author of the motion, Coun. Katie Neustaeter, said it is not the city’s responsibility to provide overdose prevention sites, but hopes those services would be expanded to 24/7 operations. However, she said council would also like to see other services, such as drug treatment in Kamloops, supported by the province.
“A treatment centre here in Kamloops is needed. We would identify the space for it tomorrow,” Neustaeter said.
Asked about adding more resources for detox or prevention services instead of more overdose prevention sites, Fenton told KTW the sites are necessary, but argued substance use disorder as a medical condition affects a minority of drug users and medical models will not solve all drug-related issues.
Fenton said issues with public drug use in Kamloops existed before the province’s decriminalization pilot project was enacted in January.
“Trying to reinstate something similar [to previous prohibition measures] through municipal bylaws is unlikely to fix the problem,” she said.
Council will need to give the amendment three readings, but because it pertains to public health, the bylaw must receive the approval of the Ministry of Health.
Neustaeter said council is willing to work with Interior Health on the issue while still advancing the bylaw.
Fenton was asked if there is middle ground for council and the health authority to find in relation to the bylaw.
“Absolutely,” she replied. “I remain available to work together. That’s the only way we can move forward, is working together.”
BC Housing has extended the Out of the Cold shelter operation at the former Stuart Wood elementary to at least Nov. 1, but a former councillor who lives in the area is upset with a lack of consultation.
The Stuart Wood property is downtown on Third Avenue, between Battle and St. Paul streets.
Former city councillor Denis Walsh appeared before council last week with a letter he received from BC Housing informing him that the shelter, which was set to close on March 31, was having its operations extended to Nov. 1.
BC Housing spokesperson Sophie Gray told KTW via email that BC Housing and the city opted to keep the shelter open for the 25 spaces it provides rather than having that number of people face homelessness overnight following the impending March 31 closure.
Gray said BC Housing has negotiated a lease extension with the municipality, as the facility is city-owned.
The Out of the Cold Society will maintain its 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. operating hours through the spring, summer and into the fall.
Out of the Cold staff and volunteers will also help shelter users access services dur-
ing the day, when the shelter is closed.
Walsh, who lives downtown near Stuart Wood, said he received a letter from the provincial body on April 6, noting the letter was dated March 24.
Walsh said the decision is concerning for him and others in the neighbourhood because, while he said the shelter was well managed over the winter, he feels it will become a “magnet” for criminal activity, such as drug dealing and other nuisance issues, if operating over the warmer summer months, when people are typically more active.
Walsh is also concerned the shelter will negatively impact the Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market, which will operate on Stuart Wood grounds and in the adjacent 200-block of St. Paul Street from April 23 to Oct. 29.
Walsh said he has already started to notice tents being erected in the area, including one that caught fire and nearly destroyed his home. He conceded, however, he cannot know for sure whether the person who set the fire was associated with the shelter.
Gray told KTW that BC Housing recognizes the former school is used for many activities, including the farmers’ market and youth soccer games. Because of that, Gray said, changes have been made to reduce the shelter’s impact
on those activities.
Changes include moving the shelter entrance to another side of the building to increase privacy for users and to reduce foot traffic around the farmers’ market.
Gray said BC Housing will also add additional security measures, such as new cameras and new fencing, and added that additional community support workers, outreach workers and cleanup teams have also been added to the site.
Gray said BC Housing has spoken directly to groups it knows would be impacted by the extension of the shelter, including organizers of the farmers’ market, and plans to “work together” with market organizers, the city and Out of the Cold throughout the remainder of the lease.
Walsh claimed BC Housing violated the memorandum of understanding it signed with the City of Kamloops in 2022, when he was on council. Specifically, Walsh said, BC Housing violated the section that states it will coordinate communication efforts with the city and initiate a notification process in advance of future shelter and housing development, given the apparent lack of public consultation.
“My concern is we do this work, create these policies and then we don’t follow them,” Walsh said.
Merit Place shelter to stay open
KAMLOOPS THISWEEK
The shelter in the former Greyhound bus depot at Notre Dame Drive and Laval Crescent in Southgate opened in February 2022, with 50 beds for those in need.
The shelter was opened to help those who had been using Memorial Arena since May 2020.
Merit Place is one of three shelters that were announced by the provincial government in late 2021,
The gym at the former Stuart Wood elementary downtown remains in use until at least Nov. 1, while a third shelter, Moira House — located in North Kamloops at the end of Kingston Avenue (abutting Rivers Trail below the Halston Bridge) —
also remains open
Merit Place and the two other shelter locations were agreed upon between the City of Kamloops and BC Housing.
The Kamloops chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association operates Moira House and Merit Place and will continue operating Merit Place for at least a year, through March 2024.
The provincial government, through BC Housing, is providing approximately $1.9 million in annual operating funding for Merit Place, along with one-time startup costs of $100,000.
In a letter to area businesses, BC Housing said extending the lease for the shelter is a necessary step to address homelessness in Kamloops.
“BC Housing has made the funding to support the shelter permanent, even if the location changes in the future,” the letter reads.
“This change will help support the shelter operator, CMHA Kamloops, to better plan staffing and resources and ensure that shelter spaces continue to be available in Kamloops for those in need in future.”
Those accessing Merit Place have access to daily warm meals, hygiene facilities, referral to health programming if needed and staff who are available around the clock.
Since the shelter opened in the former bus depot, some area business owners have noted an increase in property crime.
There have also been concerns about shelter users crossing streets in an unsafe manner and hanging out in Hillside Cemetery across the street.
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July 3 - July 29, 2023
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Arrival/Departure dates: August 7 – 8 to August 26 – 28, 2023
Students from Japan, Mexico, Taiwan, Ukraine, ages 13 - university age
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Like many businesses and institutions these days, Thompson Rivers University opens significant meetings and events by acknowledging Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and the T’exelc, our host houses within Secwepemcúlucw, the Secwépemc nation.
These acknowledgments show respect to those who, for countless generations, have held tenure to the unceded lands we occupy.
In fact, the First Nations of this region have asked us to be good guests by acknowledging their land. They did this explicitly in 1910 in the Memorial to Sir Wilfrid Laurier, composed by the chiefs of the Secwépemc, Syilx and Nlaka’pamux people.
But acknowledgements are more than words. As guests on these lands, we are called to act in ways that reflect underlying Secwépemc values, knowing these values provide direction and guidance in significant ways.
With Earth Day being celebrated this weekend, it’s fitting to talk about one of our most important shared values — sustainability. TRU is committed to learning Secwépemc values about nature and the land and infusing these into our campus culture so that Indigenous wisdom will guide modern sustainability initiatives.
The Secwépemc have long held a deep-rooted connection to the land and a profound understanding of the intricate balance within ecosystems.
They have lived in harmony with nature and managed the landscape for generations, living the impor-
tance of sustainability and environmental preservation.
These values are reflected in TRU’s commitment to sustainability. TRU implements our commitment to sustainability by acting in diverse areas that include energy, carbon, water and education:
• Strategic energy management plan: In 2010, the Kamloops campus underwent an extensive energy audit, followed by a $1.5-million energy retrofit encompassing 78 per cent of the campus building area. A partnership with BC Hydro under its continuous optimization program also promises future energy efficiency advancements. Our annual energy management plans continually manage behavioural, organizational and technical parameters to improve our buildings’ energy performance.
• LEED Gold certification: Three buildings on campus were built and designed with environmental sustainability in mind. LEED (leadership in energy and environmental design) is a rating system that indicates high standards for environmentally responsible construction.
• Low carbon district energy system: TRU’s low carbon district energy system is an ambitious project to significantly reduce TRU’s dependence on fossil fuels to heat its campus buildings. The project started in 2020 and, once complete by 2031, will reduce emissions by about 95 per cent.
• Everyday sustainability: TRU’s sustainability office offers several campus-wide programs designed to give students, employees and faculty members the opportunity to make a difference in their work environments. From programs to plant and care for trees to ways to improve recycling, our employees are encouraged to make meaningful changes.
All of these initiatives working together have an impact that is being recognized.
TRU is the first Canadian college or university to earn the platinum STARS rating twice and one of only two Canadian post-secondary institutions and 12 in the world to earn the highest possible rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
STARS (sustainability tracking, assessment and rating system) measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education. It is a transparent, self-reporting framework for colleges and universities worldwide to measure sustainability performance.
TRU received the platinum rating for the second time in the fall of 2022 — one of only six universities worldwide to do so.
In May 2018, TRU earned its first platinum rating, following gold in 2015 and silver in 2011.
Our dedication to sustainability also extends to academics. TRU offers numerous programs and courses featuring environmental studies, including undergraduate and graduate degree programs in natural resource science, environmental science, and environmental economics, among others.
These programs give students the knowledge and skills to become leaders in environmental protection and sustainable development.
In addition to classroom instruction, TRU also emphasizes experiential learning
Students participate in fieldwork, internships and community projects, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. This practical experience enhances their understanding of environmental issues and fosters a sense of responsibility and commitment to making a positive impact.
One notable aspect of Secwépemc cultural values is the principle of k’wselktnéws, which emphasizes we and all elements of the natural world are interrelated and interdependent. TRU’s faculty, staff and students increasingly appreciate this interconnectedness and foster a sense of responsibility for the well-being of the entire ecosystem.
Despite what people at TRU have done, there is a lot more to learn. Nothing less than restoring the land, plants, animals, people, air and water to full health and vitality will suffice.
By learning from Secwépemc values, TRU acknowledges the vital role First Nations wisdom plays in addressing global environmental challenges.
In doing so, we want to cultivate the next generation of environmental stewards while taking tangible steps to make our campuses more environmentally responsive, responsible and sustainable.
Dr. Brett Fairbairn is president and vice-chancellor at Thompson Rivers University. He can be reached by email at preident@tru.ca. View from TRU columns are published monthly in KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.
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Editor:
The Kamloops Outdoor Skating Association (KOSA) is delighted with the announcement that Kamloops council voted unanimously to allocate funds needed to get a community skating rink built in Riverside Park.
Thank you very much to all citizens, community organizations, city staff and council who have supported this over the last five years that KOSA has worked on and advocated for this project.
A vision of a beautiful and family-friendly, affordable facility in a central location for all Kamloops citizens, as well as
visitors, to enjoy during winter has been a central driving force of our association from the start.
We believe outdoor skating is a wonderful experience and we’re overjoyed that so many people in our amazing city will be able to enjoy it, too. Thank you.
James Gordon Steve Gainey and Nancy Bepple Kamloops Outdoor Skating AssociationEditor’s note: Nancy Bepple is a Kamloops councillor, but recused herself from council discussion and vote on the ice rink project.
Editor: Kamloops council members just don’t get it. The windfall $15 million from the province was meant to be used for the betterment of the city. The city is spending $5 million toward a $10-million pedestrian overpass across Summit Drive, an overpass that will be used mostly by university students.
Put a fence on the median of Summit Drive and direct students
to the crosswalk at Summit and McGill.
After all, these are generally younger and physically fit students. Spending $5 million of taxpayers’ money on the overpass is wrong.
Rick Bennett Kamloops
support a coronary cath lab, a full cancer clinic or some other longawaited community need?
Or should we build a bridge so some Thompson Rivers University students don’t have to walk a short, healthy distance to an existing, safe, pedestrian-controlled traffic light?
Editor:
With $15.7 million from the provincial government, should we
This should not be a difficult decision. Take note and vote in the next election.
Fred Kaatz KamloopsEditor:
We do not have municipal recall legislation in B.C., but if we did, we might not have to endure another 42 months of turmoil within Kamloops council chambers.
Instead of reading and hearing about the ways and means our leaders are enhancing the lives of our residents and
bringing opportunity and prosperity to our fine city, we instead have to read about the fallout resulting from Mayor Reid HamerJackson’s autocratic style of leadership.
Unfortunately, it appears our mayor is devoid of the one essential skill necessary for success in this role — diplomacy.
Rather than build-
ing bridges, our mayor appears more adept at burning them. Once you’ve betrayed one’s trust, it’s immensely more difficult to win it back, so I am skeptical that matters can get better under his leadership.
I am disappointed by the antics within council. I feel the best our mayor can do now for our city is to step down, but I’m not
going to hold my breath. If you think municipal recall legislation might be beneficial to the electorate, you can encourage Premier David Eby to act by signing a petition online at https://chng. it/9nKVD5STTY.
Ron Wiebe KamloopsKamloops 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
From A1
“I haven’t heard the word referendum anywhere I’ve been,” Hamer-Jackson said.
The referendum would come at a time when the City of Kamloops is becoming better positioned to take on debt. During the April 11 committee of the whole meeting, corporate officer David Hallinan told council the city’s debt will be declining “significantly” over the latter half of the next 10 years.
He also noted the city does not begin incurring debt on a project until after it is completed.
A chart presented during the meeting showed the city had a debt balance of under $120 million in 2016. It is now at $60 million and will be about $40 million by 2033.
During that meeting, city CAO David Trawin told Sarai that whether to go to one referendum or several votes will be council’s decision. He said the only limitation is the city can incur a finite amount of debt.
Hallinan said the total debt the city can take on adds up to about $225 million. He said as the municipality’s other debt comes off the books, the city is better positioned to take on debt servicing of Build Kamloops infrastructure projects as they come up without much financial risk.
“The good thing that’s in our favour is our debt ratio is going to be almost down to nothing,” Sarai told KTW . “TCC [Tournament capital Centre] will be paid off in the next two years, where we will have a bigger window of borrowing opportunities because we’re paying off one huge debt.”
Organic waste buried in a landfill generates methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas. By comparison, composting organic waste with controlled exposure to air, moisture, and heat (i.e. at a composting facility) produces carbon dioxide, a much less harmful greenhouse gas.
Illicit drugs have claimed nearly 600 lives in the first three months of 2023, according to the latest report from the BC Coroners Service.
That figure includes newly reported deaths over the past two months, including 177 lives lost in February and 197 in March.
Including January, the three-month period is the worst recorded in B.C. history, with 596 lives lost in 2023 so far, putting the province on pace for its worst-ever year for illicit drug deaths.
In Kamloops, there have been 18 deaths recorded so far this year, putting the city on track for 72 lives lost this year. Last year, its worst on record, saw 92 illicit drug deaths in the city.
The province recently marked the seven-year anniversary of its longest-running public health emergency, the opioid crisis, which was declared in April 2016.
“Since the emergency was first declared, more than 11,000 people have lost their lives due to the unregulated drug supply,” B.C. chief coroner Lisa Lapointe said in a release.
“This is a crisis of incomprehensible scale and I extend my deepest con-
dolences to everyone who has experienced the loss of someone they loved.”
Kamloops, with 18 fatalities, falls somewhere in the middle of the province in terms of drug deaths. Nearby Kelowna compares with 19 lives lost to date, while the similarly sized city of Nanaimo has nearly twice as many deaths this year, with 33.
Vancouver is the hardest hit among all B.C. cities, tallying 170 drug deaths so far this year — nearly one third of all drug deaths in the province — while Surrey has seen 55 drug deaths.
Nanaimo is third in the number of deaths.
Lapointe said an urgent response to the crisis is required and overdue, pointing to recommendations made by special panels convened twice by the coroner and another by the province.
Those panels have called for the urgent availability of a safe and regulated supply of drugs for those at risk of serious harm or death and for the provision of evidencebased treatment and recovery services.
“Tens of thousands of British Columbians remain at risk of dying from toxic drugs and we continue to experience the tragedy of six people dying every single
day, as we have for the past two years,” Lapointe said.
In response to the report, Jennifer Whiteside, B.C.’s minister of mental health and addictions, said in a statement that government is working to expand supports and programs, working toward a system “that provides the right care and support at the right time and place.
“We’re also making sure young people get the care and support they need, with a focus on early intervention,” Whiteside said, pointing to 12 new foundry centres in the province, where youth can access mental health and addiction services, counselling, health care and peer support.
Kamloops is scheduled to have a foundry centre open next year.
By the numbers, 71 per cent of those dying are between the ages of 30 and 59 and 77 per cent are male. Most deaths (78 per cent) occur inside private residences or other residences, while 15 per cent occur outside.
To date in 2023, fentanyl has been detected in 78 per cent of all drug deaths, compared to 86 per cent in 2022 and 2021. In 2013, fentanyl was detected in just 15 per cent of all drug deaths.
KAMLOOPS THISWEEK
The snowpack in both the North and South Thompson basins has decreased slightly in the latest monthly measurement published by the River Forecast Centre.
As of April 1, the North Thompson basin is at 82 per cent of normal (down from 91 per cent at the beginning of March) and the
South Thompson basin is at 97 per cent of normal (down from 105 per cent at the beginning of March).
A cool and dry March has led to a slightly decreased snowpack across B.C. as of April 1, with the average of all snow sites across B.C. measuring 88 per cent of normal. The provincial average as of March 1 was at 94 per cent of normal.
The River Forecast Centre said
above-normal snow indicates a higher risk for snowmelt related spring flooding for the Upper Fraser West, Chilcotin, Okanagan, Lower Thompson and Boundary basins. Basins with normal to slightly below-normal snow are still at risk for spring flooding if adverse weather occurs, such as a heat wave and/or heavy rain.
The River Forecast Centre
said La Niña conditions persisted during the fall and winter and such conditions can lead to increased late-season snowfalls and delayed onset of snowmelt. By April 1, nearly 95 per cent of the seasonal snowpack has accumulated, on average.
Last year at this time, a deeperthan-normal snowpack locally and across much of the province
led to concerns about spring flooding that, fortunately, did not materialize.
Weather-wise, Environment Canada data shows Kamloops experienced an extremely dry March, with only a trace of rain and snow recorded. In February, the data shows 10.7 millimetres of rain and 14.4 centimetres of snow fell at Kamloops Airport.
KAMLOOPS THISWEEK
The Kamloops Fire Centre is urging people to be cautious with open fire use this spring to help reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires.
Valley bottom areas continue to be very dry as a result of elevated drought conditions from the fall.
That, coupled with little precipitation, has led to forest fuels easily susceptible to ignition.
Currently, there are no open fire prohibitions in effect in the Kamloops Fire Centre, but those conducting open fires should use caution and be aware of local conditions that might impact their ability to burn
safely and keep flames under control.
The Kamloops Fire Centre extends from the northern border of Wells Gray Provincial Park to the U.S. border in the south, and from the Bridge River Glacier west of Gold Bridge to the Monashee Mountains east of Lumby.
Before lighting a fire, the
Kamloops Fire Centre asks people to check with city hall or the regional district to ensure they are properly prepared, aware of the conditions and following open burning regulations.
SOME TIPS:
• Establish a fuel break around category 2 or category 3 burns and ensure
the fire site is away from buildings, trees and other combustible materials;
• Ensure someone is always monitoring the fire so it doesn’t spread beyond its intended size;
• Ensure sufficient tools and water are on site to control the fire;
• Make sure the fire is completely extinguished
As the old saying goes, “ The only two guarantees in life are death and taxes ” Many of our clients often ask how much will be lost to taxes upon death It is a challenge to tr y to answer this question in 500 words or less, but hopefully this will provide some insight We have included some tips and strategies below to help reduce estate taxes in BC
There are two main tax burdens when an individual passes away :
I) Probate taxes : Apply to all assets that fall into the estate This t ypically excludes assets in joint names and those with a named beneficiar y. Probate laws var y across provinces and territories in Canada.
II) Income taxes : In Canada, a person is deemed to have disposed of all assets upon death and may be subject to income tax . These must be paid upon completing their terminal tax return
Generally speaking when someone passes away, the sur viving spouse is often the beneficiar y and would t ypically inherit all assets tax-free as a spousal rollover These include : real estate, bank accounts and other investments kept in joint names as well as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) and Tax-Free Savings
Accounts ( TFSAs) that have the sur viving spouse named as beneficiar y
The larger tax bill often applies when the sur viving spouse passes away This is also t ypically the case for single or divorced individuals
For illustration purposes, let ’s consider a scenario where Jane, a widow, has two adult children and passes away with the following assets :
• $800,000 Principal Residence paid $400,000 in sole name
• $400,000 Rental Proper t y paid $300,000 in sole name
• $500,000 RRSP/RRIF beneficiaries are 2 children
• $100,000 Tax Free Savings Account beneficiaries are 2 children
• $100,000 Investment Account in sole name with a $50,000 cost base
• $100,000 Vehicle and Bank Accounts
• $ 0 Debt $2 ,000,000 Total Assets & Net Wor th
Probate tax in BC is approximately 1.4% on all assets that fall into estates valued over $50,000 Assets such as RRSPs, RRIFs, Tax Free Savings Accounts and Life Insurance with direct beneficiaries generally fall outside of BC probate.
For Jane s estate, ever y thing except the TFSA + RRSP would be subject to probate. This would result in 1.4% x $1,400,000= $19,600 that her executor would need to pay prior to distributing the estate
The larger bill comes from Jane's terminal tax return. Assuming she passed away on Januar y 1st and had no pension or other income, she would owe the following:
• $0 tax on Principle residence since capital gains are exempt on primar y residence
• $100,000 capital gain on rental proper t y of which 50% is taxable
before leaving the area. Anyone lighting a category 3 open fire must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1-888-797-1717.
Anyone who lights an open fire must also comply with B.C.’s air quality control legislation and follow the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulations.
• $500,000 RRSP is fully taxable despite having named beneficiaries
• $0 on TFSA!
• $50,000 Investment capital gain of por tfolio of which 50% is taxable
• Nothing on bank accounts or personal assets
Total Income= $50,000 + $500,000+ $25,000 = $575,000
Using the Ernst & Young 2023 BC online tax calculator (www ey com) and assuming no other credits nor deductions, the deceased would owe about $260,558 in taxes or an average of 46%. All said, the kids would be inheriting an incredible legac y valued at $2 ,000,000 - $19,600 - $260,558= $1,7 19,842 or $859,921 each, assuming the estate was divided equally between the two children
We purposely left out private corporations due to their complex nature. New BC rules exist where it could make sense for shareholders to implement a secondar y Will specific to only their corporation. Given the unique nature of this, we recommend seeking trusted legal advice
We often talk with clients who had the best intentions when tr ying to reduce estate taxes but were unaware of the potential ripple effects Given the world of blended families, everchanging tax rules and the sensitivit y of money, we always feel it is best to review these with an estate/tax specialist
Our nex t ar ticle will go over some of these potential tips and strategies to help reduce taxes.
Until nex t time... Invest Well. Live Well.
Written by Eric Keith Davis Associate Investment Advisor keith davis@td.com
Months of dry weather have led to early hazards in B.C.’s fire season, according to an update from the provincial government on Thursday (April 13).
While normal spring weather is expected in most of the Interior, the prospect of continued dry conditions threatens to worsen early fire risks.
The province is currently in what the BC Wildfire Service calls the “spring dip,” where foliage has yet to green up and is mostly dry.
“It’s certainly a window of the season that we’re keeping a close eye on,” said Matt MacDonald, the lead forecaster with the BC Wildfire Service.
During a recent controlled burn just south of Lytton, MacDonald said, crews saw “impressive” fire behaviour for this time of the season, including “full consumption” of a tree stump, including its root ball underground. He attributed the behaviour to dry conditions.
October 2022 was one of the driest and warmest Octobers in B.C. history, MacDonald said, with temperatures 4 C to 10 C higher than normal.
Warning preparedness meteorologist
Armel Castellan said most of B.C. has seen a precipitation deficit over the past nine months, with the province seeing its third consecutive La Niña winter.
In Kamloops, Environment Canada data noted just a trace of rain and snow in March.
In the short term, Castellan said, until mid-May, cooler and wetter weather is likely due to cool off-shore waters, but the opposite trend is possible for the rest of May, June and July. Overall, mostly normal temperatures are expected for Kamloops.
Snowpack in the province is below normal, according to the latest report from the BC River Forecast Centre, which shows the B.C. average at 88 per cent.
As of April 1, the North Thompson basin is at 82 per cent of normal (down
from 91 per cent at the beginning of March) and the South Thompson basin is at 97 per cent of normal (down from 105 per cent at the beginning of March).
River Forecast Centre head David Campbell said extremely low flow rates are currently being observed across the province, including in Kamloops’ Thompson rivers.
Campbell said flows are expected to increase in the coming days and weeks, with the biggest risk period for freshet in May and June.
Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Bowinn Ma urged British Columbians to prepare for the coming flood and fire season.
“We must all take action to prepare for the worst. That means having an evacuation plan, preparing an emergency kit and preparing a grab-and-go bag in case there is an emergency,” Ma said.
Ma said the provincial government has increased its use of broadcast-intrusive alerts, including phone alerts, over the past year.
“We know people are counting on us and that is why we’re putting a greater emphasis on mitigation and preparedness,” she said.
Since April 1, there have been 11 fires in B.C., with two of them being human-caused and the remainder still under investigation.
The BC Wildfire Service conducted a twoday training exercise on Aviation Way on Thursday, April 13. Crews tested out new pump equipment mounted on an ATV, which sent water to a series of water sprinklers mounted along the River’s Trail pathway. Kamloops Fire Rescue also took part, testing the pressure of the new mobile system to see if it could fill one of their water tenders, which it did with no problem.
DAVE EAGLES/KTW
After 30 years in Kamloops, the Smorgasbord Deli and Country Garden Greenhouse is closing at the end of August.
Owners Anita and Dalton Strong said they are ready to retire, but would happily stay on and help a group of interested parties take over and learn the business.
“The building has been purchased by a pizza joint and we have to move by the end of August,” Anita said of the business’s home downtown at Victoria Street and Seventh Avenue.
“We have been talking about retiring anyway, but may end up just closing up the shop,” she said. “Not that we want to, but we don’t have anyone ready to take over in this short amount of time.”
Beginning in the 1980s, the couple began cultivating bedding plants at their Monte Lake farm, selling them at Kamloops Farmers’ Market, which had been in existence for only four years at that time.
They opened the garden centre and restaurant businesses in 1999 and have since become a local fixture in Kamloops.
The Smorg has become much more than a spot to enjoy lunch among the greenery — it has grown into a community of citizens of a similar sentiment, with events such as the annual Peace Walk being planned between its walls.
Dalton said the business has always been shaped around their strong passion for community.
It was his father’s example of
operating a local tent and awning business in the 1960s that helped shape Dalton’s belief that “small business was the way to go.”
He said they are hopeful they can sell the business to like-minded people.
“I would like to turn it over to a community like a co-op, where people are investing in themselves or the community that they live in,” Dalton said.
When Daphane Nelson, a longtime customer of the Smorgasbord, heard news of the pending closure, she approached
the Strongs with an idea to host an information session for the public, examining the possibility of cooperative ownership and/or investment options.
“There must be a group out there willing to take this on,” Nelson said. “I’ve been buying my gardening supplies from Country Garden for almost a decade now and, even though I live in Batch, I still love meeting people at the Smorgasbord for a coffee.”
The information session for prospective cooperators will be held on Wednesday, April 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Smorgasbord.
People will learn about cooperatives in general and the concept of co-owning business specifically.
Those interested in learning more are asked to pre-register via Brown Paper Tickets, online at savethesmorg.bpt.me.
guished the blaze and confirmed no one was inside.
The cause of a fire in a home in downtown Kamloops has not yet been determined, while there remained a days-long police presence at the house at Seymour Street and Ninth Avenue.
On April 6 at about 5 a.m., Kamloops RCMP officers attended the home, where firefighters extin-
“A subsequent investigation conducted by police and fire investigators concluded the fire’s cause as undeterminable at this time,” Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said.
On April 7, police returned to the home and remained there through April 12, but their presence was unrelated to the fire investigation.
“Currently, officers continue to secure the residence while members of the Southeast District major crime unit advance a separate investigation associated to that address,” said Cpl. James Grandy of the BC RCMP, adding that to protect the integrity of that investigation, no additional details will be released right now.
Grandy told KTW investigators were at the home as
the probe may relate to one of Southeast District’s ongoing investigations, though he could not specify which probe may be involved.
The Kelowna-based RCMP Southeast District major crime unit is in charge of two current homicide investigations locally: the Jan. 29, 2022, shooting death of Jagraj Dhinsa, 18, whose body was found in a parking lot on the
Tk’emlúps reserve, and the death of Peter Daniel Casimir, whose homicide has been connected to a bloody rug that was left at the Barriere RCMP detachment earlier this year.
Anyone with information on the fire or in connection with activity in the home is asked to call Kamloops RCMP at 250-8283000 or the RCMP Tip Line at 1-877-987-8477.
RCMP detachment and linked to a violent criminal act.
The chief of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc has confirmed the victim of a murder investigation who shares her last name was not a member of the band or her family.
The RCMP’s Southeast District major crime unit is investigating the murder of Kamloopsarea resident Peter Daniel Casimir. The homicide investigation involves a bloody blue Ikea area rug that was recently left at the Barriere
“I don’t know who he is and I’m not too sure where he’s from, but I do know he’s not a TteS member,” Tk’emlúps Chief Rosanne Casimir told KTW, noting she questioned whether Peter Casimir had a connection to her or the band when she first heard of the story.
The last update on the homicide from police was on April 3. RCMP Staff Sgt. Jason Smart said at the time police believe the murder was targeted and that no danger to the public exists.
Investigators are seeking the public’s help in identifying anybody who has had dealings with Peter Casimir this year, in particular in March.
Police said the victim was known to have also used the alias of Jake Maserski. Investigators continue to seek any additional information the public may have with respect to knowledge of the Ikea area rug and its origin.
Peter Casimir had been in provincial court in Prince George and Burns Lake over the years on charges including assault, break and enter and breach of release conditions. Police have not said whether his criminal history has
been linked to his murder, only that he was the intended target.
Asked by KTW if police had recovered Casimir’s body and, if so, where it was located and the manner in which Casimir was killed, RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark said he could not provide those details. He was also not at liberty to say where in the Kamloops area Casimir resided, where he was known to frequent or whether the homicide is believed to be associated with the drug trade.
Anyone with information is asked to call 1-877-987-8477.
Q) Are you ready for retirement community living?
A) Before you say “I’m not ready,” why not ask yourself “ What is it that I’m not ready for?”
If you give yourself some time to think about this and you are really honest with your answers it might surprise you that you are actually ready
Are you tired of grocery shopping and preparing meals?
Do you often think about your personal safety and security of your home?
Do you often feel alone or lonely? Would you like to have an active social life with like minded people?
Is maintaining your home becoming a burden rather than something you enjoy?
If you have answered yes to even one of these questions then perhaps you are ready! Once you’ve decided the time is now for a move you’ll need to do your research. First, make your list of priorities to determine what type of community will be the best fit for you. Then narrow the list of potential communities and schedule appointments for a visit It is so important to take your time when visiting each community
Prepare a list of questions and you’re on your way!
A 33-year-old North Thompson woman who shot and killed her husband at a Vavenby campsite in 2020 has been sentenced to a decade in prison.
With 467 days of time served factored in at 1.5 days per day behind bars, Ashleigh Tschritter has eight years remaining on her sentence.
“She took her husband’s life because he said something she didn’t like,” Justice Joel Groves said during sentencing on March 13 as he referenced Tschritter’s record of violent crimes that preceded the Sept. 6, 2020, death of her husband, David Simpson.
“She must be deterred from committing offences in the
future … this calls for a significant sentence to be imposed. Because of her actions and her inability to exercise any modicum of self control, she needs to be separated from society,” Groves said.
“Separation from society is required to protect society, but also, if possible, to try to instil a sense of responsibility in Ms. Tschritter and acknowledgement of the harm that she has done to her community, the harm that she has done to her now deceased husband and her husband’s family and to her own children.”
Tschritter was originally charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of her 39-year-old husband, but a jury in December found her guilty of the lesser charge of manslaughter.
During the trial, court heard Tschritter, her husband and their children were camping with a friend when she became angry after her husband mentioned another woman. She retrieved a shotgun from their camper and killed her husband, though claimed to police that he had killed himself.
Groves noted a previous judge described Tschritter’s ongoing behavioural problems and the need for anger management eight years before Simpson was shot to death. Tschritter has a history of violent criminal offences, with past convictions for robbery and assault, including the brutal robbery and beating of a university student in Chilliwack in March if 2010 that left the victim close to death.
“Though eight years had elapsed from that time of sen-
tencing, in regards to her anger management and aggressiveness, nothing seems to have changed,” Groves said.
“She used a firearm to end the life of Mr. Simpson while under the [firearms] prohibition … she killed her domestic partner. She involved her children afterwards and the effect on them is no doubt long term and devastating. What is particularly troubling in this entire circumstance is the lack of explanation for her actions. At most, she was insulted, it appears, by Mr. Simpson’s reference to another female person — perhaps it was a girlfriend.”
In addition to her prison sentence, Tschritter must provide a DNA sample for the national crime database and has been handed a lifetime firearms prohibition.
A Cache Creek man charged with second-degree murder and obstruction of justice remains in custody in Kamloops Regional Correctional Centre following an application for judicial interim release in B.C. Supreme Court in Kamloops.
Defence lawyer Sheldon Tate told Justice Joel Groves
that Corey Harkness voluntarily remained at KRCC for fear of losing his current cell after being relocated to Kamloops to fix a date for court.
Harkness is accusing of shooting Brock Ledoux to death inside a Cache Creek home on Jan.14, 2019, and was slated to stand trial on Feb. 7 when he was arrested in the courthouse on new charges of attempting to obstruct justice and breaching a no-contact order.
It is alleged Harkness con-
tacted trial witness Chelsea Prior on Jan. 31.
At the time the new charges were sworn, Harkness lost his representation, with Tate now his new lawyer.
Tate told Groves that Harkness is not currently in a position to seek bail and wanted to schedule both trials.
The matter is expected to come before Groves on May 8, with Harkness attending remotely via video from KRCC.
A Westsyde woman has been rescued from the backcountry after being reported missing for three days.
Kamloops Search and Rescue (KSAR) was deployed to the Red Lake area northwest of Kamloops on Sunday, April 16, at about 6:30 p.m., setting
up a command post just over the railway tracks on the Tranquille-Criss Creek Road.
KSAR manager Alan Hobler told KTW search crews found the woman, who had been missing for three days and two nights, safe and sound north of Red Lake.
He said the PEP Air, civilian volunteer search and rescue
aircraft based out of Kamloops was out searching for the woman on Monday morning when crew members spotted her.
“They located her waving up at the plane,” Hobler said. “She was visiting a friend up there and was supposed to drive back to Westsyde and failed to show up. It sounds like she made a
It is the intention of Battle Mountain Equine Enterprise Inc. and Battle Creek Ranch Ltd (the “Companies”) to amalgamate
wrong turn somewhere and ended up on a road that was snowed in.”
As of about noon on Monday, Hobler said crews were working to extract the woman, but he was not sure if they had completed the rescue.
Kamloops RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn confirmed the woman was found and is safe.
It is the belief of the Directors of the Companies and the Directors have reasonable grounds for believing that the amalgamated Company will not be insolvent when the amalgamation takes effect Any creditors of the Companies who intend to object to the amalgamation must provide the Companies with written notice of objection within 15 days of the publication of this notice
transmountain.com
Construction of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project is nearing completion in the Kamloops area, between Black Pines and the Kamloops Terminal Work crews wi ll re m a in in th e re gi o n th ro u gh o ut 202 3 to co m p lete ri ght- of-way cle an up an d re cl am ation T h ank yo u for yo ur pati e n ce durin g construc tion
construction progress in other re gions an d to learn m ore
D u r i n g th i s fi n a l p h a s e of wo r k , yo u m ay n oti ce s m a l l c rew s wo r k i n g i nte r m i t te ntly to co m p lete:
• Va lve i n s t a l l ati o n
• R i g ht- of-w ay a n d a cce s s ro a d cle a n u p
• Re s to r ati o n of tr a i l a cce s s
• Re s e e d i n g , re p l a nti n g a n d l a n d re cl a m ati o n
L e p r é s e n t m e s s a g e c o n t e n t d e s r e n s e i g n e m e n t s m p o r t a n t s S i v o u s a v e z b e s o i n d u n e t r a d u c t o n v e u l e z c o m m u n i q u e r a v e c i n f o @ t r a n s m o u n a n c o m
the 31st day of May, 2023 After that date, the executor will distribute the estate among the parties entitled, having regard only to the claims of which the executor has notice
Joanne Patricia Baron Executor
c/o Gillespie & Company LLP
Lawyers
Kamloops, BC V2C 3K8
The latest in a series of fires in Kamloops was doused by firefighters on Saturday evening (April 15).
The blaze erupted at about 6:15 p.m. in shrubs off the Eighth Street overpass at Halston Avenue in North Kamloops.
Kamloops Mounties were called by Kamloops Fire Rescue to assist with the fire, which involved a large area of cedar hedging.
Photos and videos of the fire posted to social media showed large flames burning the vegetation. The fire was burning near a yellow caution sign advising of a high-pressure gas line in the vicinity.
Kamloops RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said a small campfire was found in the area. Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact police at 250-828-3000 and reference file 2023-12817.
A similar brush fire broke out the week before in downtown Kamloops, next to a staircase at the corner of St. Paul Street and Second Avenue. School District 73 trustee Cole Hickson captured video of that fire and KFR’s work in extinguishing it.
Four days before that, former city councillor Denis Walsh said he had to extinguish a planter fire on the deck of his home near the former Stuart Wood elementary downtown.
Mounties have noted a number of suspicious fires in Kamloops as of late.
At about 10:25 p.m. on April 12, KFR requested assistance from the RCMP after a suspicious grass fire was ignited at the north end of Overlanders Bridge, near Fortune Drive.
Thirty minutes later, another fire was found in a fenced compound in the 500-block of Tranquille Road in North Kamloops. Other fires being investigated include a rear deck fire at a downtown business in the 400-block of Victoria Street on April 7, a shopping cart fire in the 1300-block of Columbia Street West downtown on April 7 and a vehicle fire on McGill Road on April 10.
of North America.
Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and the City of Kamloops will welcome four delegates from the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) this weekend, from Friday, April 21, to Sunday, April 23.
The delegates will be evaluating local facilities and hosting capacity.
Tk’emlúps is the only Indigenous-led bid for the 2027 Games, with Calgary the only challenger.
Included in the weekend visit will be a private reception at the Tournament Capital Centre that will feature demonstrations of some NAIG sports.
Tk’emlúps/Kamloops was chosen by the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council in November 2022 to serve as British Columbia’s official host candidate community for the Games, which rotate every four years among various regions
The Western region is responsible for hosting the 2027 event and the next opportunity for this region to host after the 2027 Games will not be until 2039.
“We are extremely proud and excited to welcome NAIG delegates,” Tk’emlúps Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir said in a release.
“Tk’emlúps and Kamloops are known internationally for our warm hospitality and well-executed sport competitions that exceed expectations of sport enthusiasts. We believe our community is the right size for youth to foster a great sense of belonging and Indigenous pride and to showcase our beautiful land and Secwépemc culture.”
As an Indigenous-led bid, Tk’emlúps and the City of Kamloops are committed to working together and they have been nationally recognized for their combined commitment to reconciliation. The Truth and
Reconciliation Commission calls to action 87 to 91 specifically address reconciliation tied to sport.
The final stage in the overall evaluation process is an in-person presentation to all 26 members of North American Indigenous Games Council in Dartmouth, N.S., on May 17.
The successful location will be announced during the 2023 Games in Halifax in July.
The North American Indigenous Games is the largest international, multi sport and cultural event for Indigenous youth in North America.
If successful, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and Kamloops will welcome up to 6,000 athletes, coaches, team staff and cultural performers from more than 756 Indigenous nations in Canada and the United States.
For more information about the North American Indigenous Games, go online to naigcouncil.com.
Pursuant to Sec tions 26(3) and 94 of the Community Char ter, S.B.C. 2003, Ch. 26, the City of K amloops (the “City ”) is disposing of 372.9 m2 of surplus road adjacent to 320 Tranquille Road, legally described as: Road to be closed shown on Bylaw Plan EPP122055, dedicated on Plan 1169, DL D, Gp 2, K (Formerly Lytton) DYD (the “Proper ty ”).
The City is transferring fee simple title of the Proper ty to 320 Tranquille Developments Ltd , to be consolidated with 320 Tranquille Road, for consideration in the amount of $205,450.
For more information, please contac t David W. Freeman, RI(BC ), Assistant Development, Engineering, and Sustainability Direc tor/Real Estate Manager, at 250-828-3548.
Two candidates in last October’s civic election — including one who was elected — have been fined by Elections BC due to errors in their campaign advertising.
Dale Bass, who was elected as councillor, and Ray Dhaliwal, who mounted an unsuccessful run for mayor, were fined $200 and $150, respectively, because advertising they sponsored did not have the requisite financial agent authorization attached to it.
Section 44 (1) of the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act requires that a candidate who sponsors election advertising ensure that the advertisement does the following: identifies the financial agent, indicates that it was authorized by the financial agent and gives a B.C. telephone number, an email address or a B.C. mailing address at which the financial agent may be contacted regarding
the advertising.
While the maximum fine is $5,000, Elections BC director of investigations
Adam Barnes said Bass and Dhaliwal were levied the lower fine amounts because, in assessing the penalty, he noted the lack of an authorization statement would not likely have misled a reader to conclude that the ads were sponsored by another individual or organization and the transparency purpose of the Act had been substantially met.
He added that the
two candidates were cooperative and corrected the errors where possible.
Barnes also noted the civic election was Bass’ second and Dhaliwal’s first as a participant (while it was Dhaliwal’s first campaign for mayor, he did run, and was elected as a councillor, in the 2017 civic byelection).
The campaign ads for Bass and Dhaliwal ran in Kamloops Connector and Kamloops This Week newspapers, both of which are owned by Aberdeen Publications.
This section of the parking lot at Aberdeen Mall, next to the north entrance off of Hillside Drive, is the future home of the Canadian Brewhouse restaurant. While not much work has taken place in recent months, beyond what passersby see, the company behind the restaurant chain confirmed to KTW that an eatery will indeed rise on that location. “I can confirm that this location is still happening and in progress for a summer 2024 opening,” Canadian Brewhouse vicepresident of marketing Sara Gundy said. In August 2021, a development permit was issued by the city to Aberdeen Kamloops Mall Ltd., allowing for the construction of a two-storey, 667-square-metre (7,179-square-foot) building.
The Canadian Brewhouse is a sports bar chain owned by Mike Wheeler. Its first location opened in Edmonton in 2002. There are now 37 pubs in Canada, including five in B.C. Kamloops will be the sixth outlet in the province.
Kamloops Airport managing director Ed Ratuski said passenger numbers for the first quarter of 2023 reflect the recovery of the aviation industry from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the first quarter, Ratuski said, there were significant increases in both inbound traffic to Sun Peaks and outbound travelers to sun destinations.
Passenger traffic is currently 80 per cent of pre-pandemic
record levels and both WestJet and Air Canada have included additional flights to Calgary and Vancouver, respectively, effective May 1.
In addition, Flair Airlines is scheduled to begin non-stop service to Edmonton on June 18.
In the first quarter (January, February and March) of 2023, Kamloops Airport welcomed 80, 867 travellers, which was a 51 per cent increase from the 53,690 passengers who came through the airport during the first three months of 2022.
A renovation project is slated to improve conditions at the Y Women’s Emergency Shelter.
Jacquie Brand, the Y’s general manager of violence against women intervention and support services, said she is excited to see private bathrooms being added to the suites at the transition house, thanks to funding recently secured through Women’s Shelter Canada.
“These renovations help solve facility gaps identified while operating under pandemic conditions and will provide for increased safety, confidentiality and more comfortable living conditions for women and their children while at the shelter,” Brand told KTW, noting renovations were expected to begin this week and will continue until at least the end of May.
The 30-year-old transition house has six bedrooms with 23 beds and three bathrooms to accommodate women and chil-
dren. The renovation work will see each bedroom have a bathroom.
“In one room, we can have up to four people — like a whole family — plus three single women in the other room, all sharing one bathroom,” Brand said, noting space, privacy and safety issues.
The 30-year-old transition house has six bedrooms with 23 beds and three bathrooms to accommodate women and children. The renovation work will see each bedroom have a bathroom.
a lot of those kinds of concerns.”
While the Y Women’s Emergency Shelter has been known by that name for a long time, Brand explained the services being offered to those in need are more akin to that of a transition house.
Those who visit the Y’s program stay between 30 and 120 days while they are transitioning away from a violent domestic situation.
other service providers in Kamloops, the Ministry of Children and Families, as well as other transition houses in close proximity to Kamloops to help support the families that reach out to us.”
Meanwhile, the Y Women’s Shelter staff will be hosting a weekly dinner for families who have used the program at any point. It was an idea generated by staff.
“We’ll be holding maybe Sunday night family dinners where they’re welcome to come and have some coffee houses at the outreach office and some check-in times for the women who have left,” Brand said.
“It’s hard enough with group living to share the rest of the house, let alone share a bathroom with either a family or three other people,” Brand said.
“Everyone has different cleanliness levels and how they like their rooms to look, so it will take away
Date: Wednesday, May 3 Time: Doors open at 6:30pm Panel 7:00pm-9:00pm Location: Mountain Room, TRU (Campus Activity Centre)
“We will be staffed during this time, offering support services; however, our rooms will be unavailable at this time,” Brand said, noting the Ministry of Children and Families has an obligation to house families if the transition house is full or unable to house people.
“We continue to work with
“Women who have left can always — it doesn’t matter how long it’s been since families have left — they can always call us 24/7 and they can always drop in for support.”
To learn more about violence against women programs offered through the Y Shelter, go online to kamloopsy.org/vawiss.htm.
Kamloops author Katie Welch was among five authors from across Canada vying for the 2023 CBC Short Story Prize.
Welch’s short story, Bird Emergent, was shortlisted last week, with the field narrowed down to just five writers from across the country. More than 2,000 people entered the nationwide contest.
The winning author was announced on Tuesday and the 2023 CBC Short Story Prize has been awarded to Vancouver author Will Richter for his story called Just a Howl
Still, simply making the shortlist was an honour, according to Welch.
“I was incredulous at first because I’d entered before and never even been longlisted,” Welch told KTW. “I had almost forgotten I had even submitted to it. I was amazed at first and then just really excited I’d been shortlisted.”
Welch’s own story somewhat mirrors the short piece she submitted to the contest back in October — except for the duck sex.
“You weren’t expecting duck sex?” Welch said, laughing.
Bird Emergent follows a character named Ava who undergoes a visceral transformation to become her true self.
Welch’s short story, and
he other four shortlisted tales, can be read online at cbc.ca/ books.
Welch relates to her character’s story, at least metaphorically.
“I was always wanting to be a writer and just never pursuing it, being afraid to actually pursue my passion until I became a cranky middle-aged woman, much like Ava,” she said.
Welch said seeing LGBTQ and two-spirit communities “just trying to be who they are” also inspired the story.
“I drew that line between what I’ve been through and what other people were doing, trying to be themselves, and how it’s just part of their nature and they can’t do anything about it,” she said.
Welch teaches music in Kamloops, but she grew up in Ottawa and earned a degree in English literature from the University of Toronto, with plans to be a writer.
After school, she was discouraged by a series of rejections while trying to get published.
“I needed to make money,
so I put it aside until I got into my 40s. I had never stopped wanting to write, so I took another kick at the can,” she said.
In May 2022, Welch released her debut novel, Mad Honey, published by Ontario publisher Wolsak & Wynn.
The book, about a family finding peace and the magic of beekeeping, follows a pair of mysteries, including a beekeeper who disappears for months before returning to declare that he has been living as a bee colony.
It was recently nominated for an Evergreen Award by the Ontario Library Association.
“It took 10 years to get that book published,” she said. “It’s been a long road.”
Welch said she was thrilled with that nomination, which came from a panel of librarians.
Although both works tell stories of transformation, Welch said the book differs from her short story, although both involve nature.
“My default is ... I want to say environmentalist, but I think we are all kind of environmentalists these days,” she said.
In winning the 2023 CBC Short Story Prize, author Richter of Vancouver will take home a $6,000 prize from the Canada Council for the Arts and attend a two-week writing residency at Artscape Gibraltar Point on the Toronto Islands.
Garry Gottfriedson, an Indigenous leader, rancher, edu-
cator and world-renowned poet from Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree from the
University of Northern British Columbia during the school’s May 26 spring convocation ceremony at the Prince George campus.
Gottfriedson was born into a ranching family near Kamloops. As a young boy, he spent the first five years of his formal education at the Kamloops Indian Residential School before his parents secured his entrance into the public school system.
“It is because of my ancestors and parents that I am secure with my Secwépemc identity,” Gottfriedson said in a release. “They instilled the importance and significance of our way of being so that I would undoubtedly know my language, land and culture, despite the fight that lay before me.”
Gottfriedson, who is
the Secwépemc cultural advisor for Thompson Rivers University, is a fluent speaker of both Sécwepemctsin and Cree. His advocacy is deeply interwoven with his passion for language preservation, education and the arts.
For more than 40 years, Gottfriedson has been at the forefront of Indigenous self-determination and identity reclamation, beginning with his land-based learning and teaching at the
Indigenous working community and cultural revolution retreat, Smallboy Camp. As an educator, Gottfriedson has worked at all levels — from kindergarten to graduate levels in post-secondary — teaching, designing curriculum, advising and as an administrator.
Gottfriedson has worked with Dr. Sarah de Leeuw, UNBC professor and Canada Research Chair in humanities and health inequities, on efforts to combat antiIndigenous racism and foster cultural humility skills in physicians across north and central British Columbia. He has further connections with UNBC through the Ut’loo Noye Khunni-Weaving Words Celebration and has mentored students in their creative pursuits through thesis work guidance.
“It is our collective
creative voices that work together to smash down the barriers that block progress,” Gottfriedson said. “This is what our young Indigenous voices do.”
Gottfriedson has published 11 books of poetry, was been inducted into the International Library of Poetry Hall of Fame and had his work featured in international venues, including online at poetry. org.
Gottfriedson holds a bachelor of education from the University of Calgary and a master of education from Simon Fraser University, along with three other instructors diplomas. He studied creative writing at Naropa University in Boulder, Col., where he studied under poets and musicians such as Alan Ginsberg and Marianne Faithful.
A taste of home is a cup of brew and “timbits.”
Bangkok, with a population of 10 million is like many smaller cities rolled into one, each with a distinct feel and atmosphere.
This is our fifth visit to Thailand’s capital, and this time around we try out two new districts we’ve not been to before.
We first snuggle into the Ibis Bangkok Riverside Hotel, an older establishment with a resort feel. Breakfasting outside, watching boats pass by on the Chao Phraya River is a fine beginning to each day.
The neighbourhood is a perfect fit with its many fine small eateries.
Our favourite delight is Tom Yum (saucy rice noodles with shrimp) and Thai ice tea (intense blend of strong black tea laced with sweet syrup over crushed ice).
A walk takes us to Iconsiam, Bangkok’s latest palatial mall.
The whole first level is an indoor floating market with boat-shaped stalls on the central waterway, which are surrounded by more stalls along walkways, all selling local treats, from sizzling foods, to fresh fruits, to pre-packaged everything.
The levels above are like being in another world — high end shops in dazzling glass, marble, and chandeliers.
“What!?”
“A Porsche dealer on level four?”
My husband Rick says they probably have a sky-way for test drives. The top level is a kid’s “Superpark”.
An evening at Asiatique is mega-fun.
This night bazaar opened in 2012 on the docks and in renovated warehouses from the former East Asiatic Company (Denmark based, founded in 1897 to conduct trade with Siam).
Now, 1,500 shops and stalls selling all manner of goods imaginable are in and around these old warehouses, including
upscale restaurants that dish up around-the-world cuisine. Trust us to find the most interesting open-air eateries with hawker stalls loaded with tantalizing morsels. We chuckle at grilled crocodile labelled “Bangcroc.”
Our choice nosh is skewers of chicken and steaming cobs of corn.
A nice jaunt from our hotel is Chinatown.
Yaowarat Road is a mega food street that bedazzles the senses with scents and movement. As it is almost the Lunar New Year, the
area is flooded with the colour red — a great experience.
It is now time to set up our second, new home in the Triple-Y Hotel, which is part of the Samyan Mitrtown Shopping Complex in Pathum Wan District.
We cannot believe our eyes, seeing familiar signage and a gigantic big red cup, as our taxi pulls into the complex parking area.
“It can’t be... but it is.”
A newly opened Canadian coffee shop — Tim Hortons or “Timmy’s” as we know it.
One could live in this complex without ever leaving the air conditioned comfort — six levels of restaurants, supermarket, clothing stores, pharmacies and cinema.
If you are craving some sunshine, just walk out to the 1,500 square-metre rooftop garden. Above level six is the hotel, then several floors of condos above. Beneath all this is the conveniently located underground link of the Metropolitan Rapid Transit. A stroll around the nearby Lumpini Park is greenery plus. Its sizable man-made lakes are dotted with folks in swan-shaped paddle boats.
Birds flit about, fish stir the water and tortoises pose on logs. We also come across several sizes of Asian Water Monitor Lizards, warming themselves in the sun.
One of these impressive creatures nonchalantly crosses a road in front of us. They can grow to be several metres in length, and there are about 300 currently in the lake.
They are said to pose no threat to humans, although we were not about to test this by getting too close.
Our new experiences on this trip were great fun and made even more enjoyable by the graciousness of locals.
As always, Bangkok leaves us with warm and wonderful memories.
Travel Writers’ Tales is an independent newspaper column syndicate. For more, go online to travelwriterstales.com.
Ferster, each of whom are 6-foot-3 or taller.
Shaun Clouston knows well the Portland crowd.
The Kamloops Blazers’ head coach and general manager toiled for the Winterhawks for the duration of his major junior career, with highlights including a series-clinching Game 8 victory over fierce rivals from the Tournament Capital in the 1989 best-of-nine Western Conference final.
That elimination game was played at Memorial Arena in Kamloops.
Portland’s home games were contested at Veterans Memorial Coliseum, just as they were when Clouston returned to handle assistant coaching duties for the Winterhawks in 2001-2002 and just as they are now, with his Blazers up 2-0 on the Oregon club in their best-of-seven Western Conference semifinal series.
“We’ve been down there,” said Clouston, the 55-year-old bench boss from Viking, Alta. “The last couple years, we’ve played in the old building. For a few years, they went back and forth and played more games at the newer rink [Moda Center/Rose Garden]. We’re familiar with that rink and expect a good crowd. They get into it. They support their group and they get loud. That team likes to play at home. They get energy off of their fans.”
Sandman Centre has been a fortress for the Blazers in the 2023 post-season. They are 4-0 on home ice — averaging 5,027 fans per game — and two victories over Portland last weekend on Mark Recchi Way have kept
aspirations alive for a second consecutive sweep.
The Winterhawks will be playing — and their crowd will be yelling — for their playoff lives on Wednesday, April 19, in Game 3, knowing a 3-0 hole is nearly tantamount to elimination.
Reigning CHL defenceman of the year Olen Zellweger — who is nominated for WHL D-man of the year for 2022-2023 — patrolled the blue line for the Everett Silvertips and became familiar with U.S. Division crowds before he was traded to Kamloops in January.
“The American fans are, I don’t know, maybe the fans here [in Canada] know more about the game, maybe, and the other ones are just really passionate about the team,” said Anaheim Ducks’ prospect Zellweger, who
has four goals, including two game-winners, and 12 points in six post-season games. “There are a lot of great fans in the U.S. — Everett, Seattle, Portland. They’re passionate and they support their team a lot. It’s going to be loud in that rink, but it’s a nice arena to play in.”
Blazers’ forward Caedan Bankier offered the plan to nip American fervour in the Rose City bud.
“When we go down there, we’re going to try and take their crowd out of it right away, with the way we play, being hard on them, try to get some chances early and try to make it as quiet in there as possible,” Bankier said, speaking to Kamloops Last Week on April 12.
“I think there’s been glimpses, but I don’t think you’ve seen the
full package yet. We have stretches where it’s pretty tough to play against us and then we’ll have times where sometimes we take our foot off the gas pedal. This series, that’s what we are trying to strive for, to play a full 60 minutes through and through. When we do that, I don’t think there is anyone that can beat us when we’re playing the right way.”
Vancouver Giants’ head coach Michael Dyck told reporters the Blazers wore down his club in Round 1, with waves of physical forechecking and shot volume proving too much to handle.
That same game plan has been employed by Kamloops in Round 2 and its effectiveness reared in a 5-0 win in Game 2, thanks in part to bruising, relentless play from Ryan Hofer and his henchmen, Jakub Demek and Ashton
“We have a big line and they’re a smaller, skilled team, so we’re trying to set that tone, make their D-men go back for pucks and punish them every time they go back,” Ferster said. “It’s a long series and we want to wear them down that way. Eventually, they’re going to start throwing pucks away and we’re going to capitalize on those opportunities.”
Blazers’ goaltender Dylan Ernst has put together sparkling numbers in the playoffs, with a 6-0 record, three shutouts, a 1.42 goals-against average and .942 save percentage.
His next biggest test comes this week, with hostility to be expected from the Portland fan base.
“I like that a lot,” Ernst said. “I like the haters. It gives you motivation to do things you didn’t even know you could do.”
Clouston did not comment specifically on any changes to the lineup that might be made in time for Game 3, but he did note the Blazers are monitoring bumps and bruises.
The Winterhawks will be doing the same and aiming to avoid one more debilitating welt, defeat on Wednesday, a hematoma that would have the Blazers smelling blood heading into Game 4 on Thursday at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
“If we can get this next game, it’s going to put them on their heels, down 3-0, but we know it’s going to take a full team effort,” said Blazers’ captain Logan Stankoven, who has a teamleading 16 points, including seven goals, in six post-season games.
“They’re going to come out ready to go.”
Kamloops
Dylan Sydor gave Finnish import Aapo Sarell a nickname — Dragon Warrior — that will please fans of film series Kung Fu Panda
While not a lead protagonist such as Po, the foretold Dragon Warrior of legend in the movies, Sarell has become an important cast member for his Kamloops Blazers, along with third-pair defence partner Harrison Brunicke.
“I think so,” Brunicke said when asked if Sarell appreciates the moniker. “He’s got it on his stick.”
Confirmed Sarell: “I like it. I love it.”
Associate coach Don Hay, who oversees the Blazers’ defencemen, is pleased with progress made by Sarell, the 19-year-old left shot from Lappeenranta, Finland, and Brunicke, a 16-yearold right shot from Calgary.
The Blazers are up 2-0 on the
Portland Winterhawks in their best-of-seven Western Hockey League Western Conference semifinal series and the rookie rearguards are logging notable minutes against the U.S. Division club’s third and fourth lines.
“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.”
Games 3 and 4 are at Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Portland on April 19 and April 20, with 7 p.m. faceoffs each night.
“It’s different than Europe. I’ve learned a lot,” said Sarell, who stands 6-foot-2, weighs 187 pounds and is plus 3 in the Portland series. “It’s much faster and a smaller rink. It’s been a good year. The last 10 [regular-season] games was a little bit harder, but then much easier and now, in playoffs, I feel comfortable, more and
more, and I feel confident.”
Brunicke, who was born in South Africa and moved to Canada at the age of two, is curing like biltong on the back end, thanks in part to lekker coaching from Hay.
“He’s definitely a little more old school than I’m used to, but he’s been helping me a lot,” said Brunicke, who stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 181 pounds. “Coming from midget last year, we didn’t really go through the structural details. It’s a lot different this year. Having Don as a defensive coach is helping me a lot with that. I’ve learned a ton.”
Brunicke and Sarell will get their first real taste of post-season hostility from opposing fans this week, with crowds in Portland expected to be larger and more boisterous than what the Blazers faced in Round 1 against Vancouver.
“Their fans are loud,” said Brunicke, who is plus 2 in the Portland series. “They’ve got lots of energy. It’s going to be pretty tough to play against that.
Hopefully, they don’t feed off that a lot and we can play the game we’ve been playing and close them out.”
Added Sarell: “I love it. I get more excited to play. It just gives me more confidence.”
Should the Blazers get past the Winterhawks and the favoured Seattle Thunderbirds cull the Prince George Cougars in the other conference semifinal, Kamloops will need its third pair to ramp up another notch against NHL prospect-loaded Seattle in the conference final.
For now, the Dragon Warrior and his Cow Town sidekick are not worrying about that sequel, a tantalizing rematch that cannot materialize without two more victories against the deep, talented Winterhawks.
“Their third and fourth lines, me and Aapo play big minutes against those guys,” Brunicke said. “They’ve got lots of speed and playmakers, so getting up on those guys and playing them physically is going to be really key to winning the series.”
Shirtless Shea Van Olm roamed hallways carrying a large speaker, blaring tunes while popping in and out of dressing rooms after his Kamloops Blazers vanquished the Vancouver Giants 5-0 on April 4 in WHL post-season action at Langley Events Centre.
“We’ve got one music guy,” Blazers’ forward Daylan Kuefler said while appearing on Kamloops Last Week. “Van Olm is the music guy.”
“I’ll get a shot every once in a while. If he’s not in the room, I’ll take over, but the boys don’t love my music.”
Van Olm, who has been toiling on the fourth line in the post-season, was traded to Kamloops from the Edmonton Oil Kings in November, a quiet acquisi-
tion that cost the Blazers a conditional seventh round WHL Prospects Draft Pick in 2024. His impact has been
loud in the dressing room.
“I got on the DJ job,” said 19-year-old Van Olm, the six-foot, 185-pound forward from Calgary. “It’s
a really tough job. I laugh because some guys will give me some heat and some guys will say they love it. I’ll mix it up, do some 80s or some country, sometimes old rock and roll.”
Toronto Maple Leafs’ prospect Fraser Minten noted the cutthroat mentality of his teammates, a quick hook always at the ready if Van Olm is off his game.
“He completely hears it, too, if it’s not popular,” Minten said on KLW. “If it’s not a popular song, it gets shut down pretty quick. It ends up being the team’s music.
“Music’s huge in getting us fired up for games. We lost our speaker cord. You could tell without music in the pre-game warmup, the energy is not there. We got one back. We took it off someone’s Playstation.”
Van Olm’s music critics
include associate coach Don Hay.
“I find the balance is honestly hardest with the staff because the age gap is pretty large there,” Van Olm said. “Don Hay always hates the stuff that I’ll be putting on, but then the guys will love it and vice versa. I’ll put on some old country, he’ll love it and the guys will hate it. It’s funny.”
The team DJ confirmed Kuefler’s playlist is not widely appreciated in the room.
“Kuefler [who listens to Eye of the Tiger by Survivor to get amped] is probably low down on the list,” Van Olm said. “I don’t think his music’s very good at all. I’d probably put Matthew Seminoff right up there with me. He’s got some great music.
“Worse taste on the team? I’d probably have to go Harrison Brunicke. He’s a younger guy. He’s really
into TikTok and a lot of the trends.”
Van Olm and Dylan Sydor have found chemistry on the fourth line, combining for seven points, a plus-6 rating and 32 shots on goal through six postseason contests, all wins.
Nathan MacPhersonRidgewell was their linemate in Round 1, with Emmitt Finnie rounding out the unit in Round 2.
The Blazers’ victory song is I’m in a Hurry by Alabama and it has been heard on six consecutive game nights in the postseason, including after a 5-0 victory over Portland on April 15 at Sandman Centre.
Van Olm hopes to spin the track 10 more times before the Memorial Cup tournament gets underway in May in Kamloops.
“It’s a hard job, but it’s fun,” Van Olm said. “I like it.”
The Kamloops Rattlers opened their Thompson Okanagan Senior Lacrosse League campaign with a 20-1 victory over the Vernon Tigers on April 14 at Memorial Arena
Recording points for the Rattlers were Kordell Primus (4G, 4A), Riley Peterson (3G, 3A), Ben Saklofsky (3G, 1A), AJ Lockwood (2G), Tylor Seabrooke (2G), Morgan Bloom (1G, 4A), Quinn Smith (1G, 4A), Mike Henry (1G, 2A),
Akwasi (Junior)
Agyekum on April 14 became the first TRU WolfPack men’s soccer player to sign a Canadian Premier League-U Sports contract, inking a deal with Atlético Ottawa.
Agyekum, a midfielder from Calgary, earned tournament MVP honours
after leading TRU to the title at the U Sports Men’s Soccer Championship in November in Kamloops.
On Dec. 15, he was selected by Atlético Ottawa eighth overall in the CPL U Sports Draft.
The developmental
contract allows players to maintain U Sports eligibility while toiling in the CPL — a nine-team pro league — and Agyekum can return to TRU in August in time for the 2023 Canada West campaign.
Blaine Boomer (1G, 2A), Jeremy Brodtrick (1G), JJ Woldum (1G), Chris Case (2A), Matt Hans (1A), Ben Creasser (1A), Brady Georget (1A) and Callum Gorman (2A).
Brennan Plante scored for Vernon.
Kamloops will play host to Armstrong on Friday, April 21, a 7:30 p.m. start, and Kelowna on Sunday, a 4 p.m. start, with both games to take place at Memorial Arena.
Registration is open for the 2023 Kamloops Beach Volleyball Club campaign.
The popular men’s and women’s doubles league returns, with matches to take place on
Tuesday evenings at Overlander Park, and the club is adding a youth program.
KBVC is partnering with Behlul Yavasgel of Global Volleyball Academy to help young play-
ers learn the fundamentals of beach volleyball while promoting teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship.
For details and to sign up, go online to kamloopsbeachvolleyball.com.
Boogie has four distances: one-kilometre kids’ Mini-Boogie, five-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 21-kilometre half-marathon.
The Mini-Boogie is a little loop in Riverside Park in downtown Kamloops.
The routes for the other three distances will see participants start and finish in the
park and cross Overlanders Bridge twice. Registration is online at boogiethe bridge.com and can also be done in Riverside Park on race day, April 23, until 8 a.m. Distance start times: 21K walkers will begin at 7:30 a.m., 21K runners will begin at 8 a.m. and 1K, 5K and 10K runners will begin at 8:30 a.m.
Human resources manager at New Gold 10K
This Boogie conversation has been very one-sided.
I should ask, “How is your Boogie training going?” Hmmm. I didn’t catch your response. Chances are, it was somewhere between “Great!” and “Oops, I forgot.”
Either way, we have a spot for you.
If you’re in the “Oops” group, I suggest reconsidering either your distance or pace goals.
With four days to go, this is not the time to cram. If you grew up in Kamloops and were lucky to be educated in mathematics by Mr. Boyd Veness, you probably heard him say, “The night before the exam is best spent at the movies. You will not learn the content overnight.”
The same sentiment goes for running. A few years ago, I convinced a friend and fellow colleague to join the New Gold Boogie team. She was not a runner, but was an avid soccer player.
Still, she attended with great enthusiasm and, when the run started, she took off after the finish line like it was an open ball in the offensive end. I could barely keep up and I had trained. She finished the weekend by playing a couple of games at a soccer tournament, but come the following week, she couldn’t walk.
You know how much, or how little, you have trained. You know what your body is, and is not, capable of doing.
Be kind to your body this week and stretch, yoga, walk or get a massage. It will thank you.
Boogie the Bridge and RunClub founder Jo Berry leads runners and walkers in warmups prior to the 2022 event on the North Shore. This year’s Boogie the Bridge event will be held on Sunday, April 23, starting and finishing in Riverside Park downtown. For all race details, go online to boogietgebridge.com.
ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW
OK, Boogiers, we made it!
The taper week is here. It’s time to coast into the starting line and know in you’re heart you did the best you could to prep for this moment and this distance at (most importantly) your pace. So, chill, the hardest part is over.
To me, tapering isn’t the total absence of movement, but rather going in first or second gear and doing nothing strenuous and sweaty three days or more. Think of a light bike ride or gentle swim or hike to keep muscles moving without breaking them down. Let them heal and rest and drink lots of water and modest amounts of electrolytes days prior to the run. You’re 10 per cent stronger if you are properly and fully hydrated.
I also prefer a larger lunch the day before a run.
Boogie Day is this Sunday, April 23. Set your clothes out the night before. Arrive early to avoid the parking congestion and to let the race giggles settle. This is a great chance to see people you haven’t seen in forever and an opportunity to meet new people with at least one similar commonality — running. Rain or shine, put that smile on and make this the most memorable and fun run possible.
I’d like to thank the sponsors and my company, Teck, for helping make sure this day would come. Also, a thank you to my United Steelworkers Union Local 7619 for sponsoring a team this year.
See you all out there. Boogie is here!
ACACIA PANGILINAN Executive director at Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce 5K
It’s crazy how fast time goes by and I can’t believe this is the final week of training before Boogie the Bridge.
The last few training runs have felt really good. I was honestly a little surprised at just how good the running felt and how I have felt afterwards. This past week, we were in my neck of the woods in Westsyde. Our intervals had us running more than walking and it felt great.
Over the past weeks of training, I’ve pushed myself (at times too much), embraced my weaknesses and worked to improve my overall running ability and fitness. While this training process has not been easy for me, it has been incredibly rewarding and I’ve felt nothing but support and encouragement from the RunClub crew along the way.
Between a full work schedule, personal health challenges and those darn blisters, it has felt like there has been one obstacle after another, but I’ve done the work and am feeling ready and excited for Boogie day.
I’d like to give a massive thank you to RunClub coaches who have been great to work with each week. Their dedication, support and kindness has made all the difference for a non-runner like me. They go above and beyond to ensure we have access to resources, support and encouragement and they’ve done an excellent job at keeping us motivated for Boogie day.
As Boogie day approaches, my excitement is growing and I’m ready to be in the sea of red crossing the bridge.
You’ve been training for Boogie for the past eight weeks (or more). You have worked so hard. Well done for getting to this point and a huge congratulations for having the courage to start, continue and now succeed at the 26th annual CFJC-TV Boogie the Bridge.
The Golden Rule you have probably heard 1,000 times before is “don’t do anything different or change anything on race day.”
From shoes, to a new outfit, to breakfast, to fuel within your runs, stick to what you know. You’ve got this!
Whether you are running or walking, our coaching team has cobbled a few top tips together to help you best prepare for your Boogie.
All you need to worry about is putting one foot in front of the other and getting to that finish line. And you will.
• Get off your feet: In the days before Boogie, stay off your feet as much as possible.
• Get ready the night before: Lay out your clothes the night before. Make sure you have worn all of your clothes previously so you know that it won’t cause you any discomfort on the day. Pin your bib onto the front of your red Boogie shirt.
• Plan your early arrival: Plan where you are parking and arrive no later than 8 a.m. (7:30 a.m. for half-marathoners). Get to the start line at least 30 minutes early. This will limit any stress on Boogie morning.
• Don some old clothes: There is a wait between start times in all races. It is essential that you don’t get too cold during this time. We recommend you wear some old clothes that you can later donate (thank you to McCleaners) .
• Hydrate, but don’t over do it: Don’t start out too fast. Adrenaline on the start line will take over your body more than you think. It is important you stick to your Boogie plan and don’t go out too fast, no matter how good you feel. Take your walk breaks.
Finally, make sure to thank the volunteers and celebrate with joy when you cross the Boogie finish line.
Juno Award-winning rock band
The Glorious Sons will kick off the Memorial Cup tournament in Kamloops in May.
The band will stage the tournament’s opening concert — dubbed The Riverside Party and sponsored by Simpcw Resources Group — on May 25 at 7:30 p.m. at Molson Canadian Hockey House, an entertainment zone that will be outside the Sandman Centre for the duration of the tournament.
Memorial Cup games will run from May 26 to June 4, featuring the host Kamloops Blazers, the champions of the Ontario and Quebec major junior leagues and the Western Hockey League champion (or, if Kamloops wins the league title, the runner-up).
Tickets for The Glorious Sons will start at $49.50 (plus fees & tax) and are available online at https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/ memorial-cup-2023-riverside-
party-molson-canadian-hockeyhouse-tickets/13095065.
Outside of The Riverside Party on May 25, all events hosted at Molson Canadian Hockey House will be free to attend and will include performances by DJ Shub (May 31), Gord Bamford (June 1), Dear Rouge (June 3) and several Kamloops musicians.
Among the many events being held during the Memorial Cup tournament, the Blazing Trails Leadership Series, presented by Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, will be highlighted by six-time Olympic medallist and mental-health advocate Clara Hughes, who will speak on May 31 at noon in Sandman Centre.
Other speakers at the Blazing Trails Leadership Series will be at Molson Canadian Hockey House and will include MariePhilip Poulin, Meghan Agosta, Ken Hitchcock, Kirk McLean and
Manon Rhéaume, along with Kamloops Blazers alumni such as Darryl Sydor, Jarome Iginla, Scott Niedermayer, Darcy Tucker and Mark Recchi. A complete schedule of events (including full concert details and speaker lineups) for the Molson Canadian Hockey House will be released in the coming weeks.
• The Arrival of the Cup ,presented by Kia, will take place on May 25 at 4 p.m. at the Tk’emlúps Powwow Arbour. Just a day before the puck drops, fans can obtain a free ticket at eventbrite.com (search “Arrival of the Cup presented by Kia”), witness the arrival of the prestigious Memorial Cup trophy and take in a welcome and prayer by Tk’emlúps, along with introductions of all four Memorial Cup teams.
• The Fan Zone will be open from May 26 to June 4 at Sandman Centre. It will feature myriad activ-
ities, including interactive skills games from TopShot Hockey.
• The Hockey Hall of Fame, presented by Switchback Creek, will have a popup exhibit at Kelson Hall, downtown at St. Paul Street and Third Avenue, from May 26 to June 4. Showcased will be the Hockey Hall of Fame’s most prized artifacts and trophies, something that is usually only available to fans who visit the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. There will also be one-of-a-kind experiences, such as Aboriginal Hockey, and displays honouring Blazers alumni.
• On-ice skill development sessions will be held at McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre and Sandman Centre) from May 26 to June 3, with five on-ice development sessions planned (U11, U13, U15, and U18 co-ed players, as well as a special female-only session). Aspiring players can register by calling (250) 828-3822.
• The Memorial Cup Ball Hockey Tournament, presented by
Morfco, will take place on May 27 and May 28, downtown in the 300bock of St. Paul Street. Organized by the Kamloops Ball Hockey League, those ages five to 13 can register in the 3-on-3 ball hockey tournament as a team or as individuals by calling 250-828-3822. Registration includes an official Memorial Cup jersey and other souvenirs.
• FemSport Athletics, presented by Kamloops Kia, will be staged on June 3 at 10 a.m., downtown in the 300-block of St. Paul Street. Women of all backgrounds will demonstrate their skill and strength as they compete in a series of challenging fitness tests, including a car-pulling contest.
Tickets for the Memorial Cup tourney games can be found online at https://www.ticketmaster.ca/memorial-cup-tickets/artist/891834.
The tournament’s full schedule can be found online at chlmemorialcup.ca.
• 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
•
• 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
• Beautifully maintained 5+1 bedroom 4 bedroom home in great cul-de-sac location
• Centrally located close to schools and all downtown amenities
• Longtime owner with many updated throughout
ints; antique paper items, local histor y ephemera; BC potter y ceramics
4th Mer idian Ar t & Vintage, 104 1475 Fair view, Penticton Leanne@4thmer idian ca
Trek Madone 5, Project Ser ies 1, fully carbon, 56cm custom frame, like new Numerous accessor ies $2000/fir m For additional infor mation call 250-372-2080 anitamattdenys@ gmail com
28 Vintage sugar shakers - $400/obo Tel pioneer collector plates $150/obo 250-523-9495
EARN EXTRA $$$ KTW requires door to door substitute carriers for all areas in the cit y Vehicle is an asset Call 250-374-0462
BBQ w/side bur ner $200 Patio Table w/chairs $150 Sofa-bed $175 Make offer 250-554-1599
Bobby Orr s (4444)
Greeting cards made in England each cellophane wrapped 30 000 for $2,000/obo 250-376-6607
Antique Duncan Phyfe table, extra leaf, buffet, hutch and 4 chairs Exec cond $600 778-2577155
and ask us about our GARAGE SALE
$13 50 FOR 3 LINES (Plus Tax) ($1 per additional line) 250-371-4949 classifieds@ kamloopsthisweek com Garage Sale deadline is Tuesday 9:00 am for Wednesday Paper
Animals
Full brothers exhaust 5500kms $5,400/obo 250-299-4564
RUN UNTIL SOLD ONLY $35 00 (plus Tax) for 3 lines each additional line $10 00 (250) 371-4949
*some restr ictions apply call for details
2004 GMC 3/4T HD New brakes, good tires $6,000/ obo 250-320-7774
Boat rack, auto boat loader 12ft Naden alum boat $4,500 00 778-470-2007
GC Annual Family Facilit y Pass for YMCA $500 250-376-6607
Mom/Mama, we have missed you for 20 years and Dad/Grandpa, for 10 years this past December We think of you every day and talk about you oh so often. You both lived a life with love, honesty, ethics, integrity, hard work and you nurtured everlasting life long friendships. We may not have had you as long as we wished, but the inspiration of the life you lived continues to inspire us as you guide and walk us through our lives Your faith in us and our families and your relentless efforts guide and support us to this day All of your family and friends continue to remind us of you and speak so highly of you both, it warms our hearts and brings smiles to our faces Your grandchildren are beautiful, smart, kind, caring, generous and hard working too Thank you for the values you shared that we can now pass onto them
LOVED FOREVER, FORGOTTEN NEVER Sandra, Gary, Kyana and Calli and Ryan, Tammy, Rayelle and Dane XOXO
December 28, 1966 – April 13, 2013
Albert Noel Johnston
December 24, 1942 -
December 26, 2022
The family of Albert Johnston wishes to announce that a Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at The OLPH Church, 635 Tranquille Rd, Kamloops, BC.
Drake Smith, MSW Funeral Director
Ever y Wednesday in K T W!
Q. W hen DOES pre-paying make sense?
A. If Mur ray want s his body bur ied in a cemeter y, it might make sense to pre -pay Still, there are factors to consider before w r iting the cheque (I mean ‘sending the e - transfer ’ , almost no one w r ites cheques any more). Call us to discuss.
Drake Cremation & Funeral Services
210 Lansdowne • 425 Tranquille Rd 250-37 7-8225 • Drake Cremation.com AFFORDABLE & NO BL ACK SUITS
February 13, 1926 - April 2, 2023
Andy was born in ‘s-Gravenzande, Netherlands on February 13, 1926 and grew up in Amsterdam with his younger sister, Tini Middelburg.
He started his work career as a bank teller for the Dutch Savings Bank in Amsterdam before doing his mandatory military service in 1945. Obtaining the rank of first Lieutenant in the parachute regiment serving in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia).
On the boat back from the Dutch East Indies, in 1950, Andy met his wife Johanna Maria Wouters who was also doing her compulsory military service in the Dutch East Indies as a Sergeant in the Royal Netherlands Navy They married in Amsterdam in 1951 and, soon after, immigrated to Canada and settled in Lethbridge, Alberta.
Initially, Andy bounced through a variety of jobs; helper on a construction site, gardener, window washer and a bartender at a flying club where Johanna worked as a waitress. Their first house contained two rooms and a toilet with no shower/bathtub. Once a week they would visit a neighbour to bathe. During this time Andy participated in his favourite sport, soccer; captioning the ANAP Football Club.
Eventually, Andy was hired by Northern Electric & Manufacturing Company (Nortel) where he spent most of his working career obtaining a position of Custom Manager Working for Northern Electric required Andy & Johanna to move to Calgary, Winnipeg, Chateauguay (Montreal) and Oakville (Ottawa). Along the way they raised four children; Adlai, Carla, Bert and Derek. The last few working years, Andy worked for Mitel in Stittsville (Ottawa).
After retirement Andy and Johanna moved to Winnipeg and finally Kamloops to be close to their children and grandchildren.
Andy found pleasure in camping, going for drives, gardening, playing chess, doing word and number puzzles, reading on a variety of topics (especially Louis L’Amour), playing the stock market and watching soccer and the news on TV
Andy is survived by his wife Johanna and their children Adlai (Anne) of Gloucestershire, UK, Carla (Chris) of Baie Verte, NB and Bert of Kamloops; grandchildren Patrick (Abby), Laura, Sarah, Anna Murray (Frederic), Andrew and Nicolle. He was predeceased by his parents Cornelis Middelburg and Iefje Middelburg (née Bas), sister Tini Siliakus, son Derek John Middelburg and daughter-in-law Liza Middelburg (née Spratt).
Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com
Maria Aimola was a loving and kind-hearted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world suddenly on January 15, 2023 at the age of 67. She was born to Ida (née Salvatore) and Americo Aimola on December 17, 1955 in Bogota, Colombia.
Maria enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, creating delicious meals for family and friends, making her famous paella and dancing to cumbia music. She loved sharing stories about her time in Colombia and Italy All the little things in life brought great joy to Maria. She loved a quiet evening with her daughters and to watch romance movies. When Maria moved to Calgary she explored the local hiking trails where she could practice her love of photography Anyone who knew Maria would mention her hilarious sense of humour Maria made friends wherever she went, her vibrant and charismatic personality was contagious to everyone she met.
Maria is survived by her family who will continue to honour her legacy by living their lives to the fullest: her daughters Sabrina (Chase) and Angela (Christian); granddaughters Penny and Willa; mother Ida; brothers Frank (Sophie), Sergio (Sandy), and Alfredo (Tina); sister Patricia (Eddie), and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Maria joins her father Americo Aimola in heaven amongst many others. Maria's memory and vibrant energy will forever be cherished and remembered by all those who loved her
A celebration of life is scheduled for: Saturday, April 29th at 11:00am at Coast Kamloops Hotel.
We think about you always. We think about you still. You have never been forgotten, and you never will. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you will remain. To walk and guide us through our lives until we meet again.
Love Mom, Cheryl, Tom, Sean and Patrick Nephews and Nieces
The more you give, The more you get, The more you laugh, The less you fret, The more you do unselfishly, The more you live abundantly, The more of everything you share, The more you’ll always have to spare, The more you love, The more you’ll find, That life is good, And friends are kind, For only what we give away, Enriches us from day to day.
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Marco Trinco on April 11, 2023. Marco passed away peacefully with his family by his side.
He is survived by his loving wife Maria of 61 years and their daughters, Irene and Diana as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Giovanni and Antonia, his brothers Francesco, Amedeo and Giuseppe, and sisters Iolanda and Vittoria.
Marco was born in Drenchia, Udine, Italy on March 1, 1928. At a young age he left Italy to work in Belgium and later immigrated to Canada. He and Maria married in 1961 and made Kamloops their home.
Home was Marco’s happy place where he loved spending time with his family and friends, including all his furry family members. His passion was his yard and he could often be heard happily humming while he meticulously cared for his vegetable garden, fruit trees and grape vines. He enjoyed wine making, loved the outdoors, playing bocce and always looked forward to fishing outings with good friends.
Marco will be deeply missed and will forever be remembered fondly in the hearts of his family and friends.
The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses in the emergency room at Royal Inland Hospital. Their caring and compassion was much appreciated.
A prayer service was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 7:00 pm at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 635 Tranquille Road, Kamloops, followed by the Funeral Mass on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery Family and friends are then invited to gather in the Parish Centre for a reception.
Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com
With deep sadness, we announce that Annie “Anne” Lion (92) passed away in her sleep on April 11th, 2023.
Born on September 5th, 1930, at Isle aux Morts NL, Anne grew up with her 6 siblings on the small island of Ramea off the east coast of Newfoundland. She eventually moved to Toronto, where she met the love of her life, John Lion. Anne and John moved to the small Ontario town of Marathon where they started a family However, the lure of the west was too much, so they moved to Kamloops in 1965.
Anne worked at Sears as a comptometer operator for many years. She was passionate about healthy eating and fitness. She could often be seen walking around McArthur Island Park or working out at the gym with friends.
She loved to cook and bake, putting on huge meals for friends and family Everyone looked forward to her chicken and rigatoni dinners, perogies, pecan logs and ginger cookies.
Anne is survived by her sons Jim (Liz) and Rob (Cyndi), grandchildren Kyle, Robert (Christine), and Jason (Rick) as well as great-grandchildren Maddi, Cora and Emily Anne is predeceased by her loving husband John, and granddaughter Julianne.
Special thanks to Overlander residential care staff and Dr Howie for looking after Anne in her final years.
If desired, donations in memory of Anne can be made to Alzheimer's Society of BC or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at kamloops@cypressfuneral.ca
Barbara Ann Garrett, of Kamloops BC, passed away on April 4, 2023 just short of her 72nd birthday She was born in Great Falls, Montana to Shirley and Bill Knight – the oldest of their 10 children. The family moved to Fort St. John in 1962 where the family started a farm and then moved to Kamloops in 1967 where she went to Kam High and spent the rest of her adult life.
She was married to Eric and devoted those early years to raising her four children, supporting and managing multiple businesses that they ran, and running a small hobby farm both at their home on Pratt Road and then Campbell Creek in Barnhartvale. Once her children had grown, she worked in insurance and in real estate. She was an active member of Dallas Barnhartvale Baptist Church and volunteered with 4H, Toastmasters, the Pregnancy Care Centre and served her community
She enjoyed many activities in her younger years and was determined as she faced the challenges of life with Multiple Sclerosis. We are grateful to the staff and residents of The Hamlets for their care of mom over these past years.
Barb is survived by her four children and their partners: Edi Torrans (Jeff), Cameron Garrett (Sara), Jordon Garrett (Jennifer) and Ben Garrett (Dioselys). She had nine grandchildren including Justin, Joe, Kaiden, Harper, Reid, Iver, Alejandro, Linnea, Juliette and one more expected in June 2023. She is also survived by her sisters, brothers, and many extended family members that will miss her dearly
The Celebration of Life will be held on her birthday at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at Summit Drive Baptist Church, 1975 Summit Dr. Kamloops, BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the MS Society of Canada https://mssociety.ca/.
Sharon Eleanor Pease (née McConnell), died on Thursday February 2, 2023 at the age of 91, after a lengthy battle with dementia.
Sharon is survived by her husband, Michael, and daughters Marielle (George), Richenda (Jim), and Larissa (Vaun), granddaughter Abbey, her younger brother Arlen (Sylvia) and sister in law Marion. She is predeceased by her other three siblings David McConnell (Mae), Marie Messmer (Earl), Stallard McConnell, and parents Alice (née Mallard), and David McConnell.
Sharon was born in Coquitlam in 1931. She lived on the then forested Coast Meridian Road in Port Coquitlam. Her family moved to Lillooet BC for some of the depression years. Her family returned to Port Coquitlam and mom attended high school at the Duke of Connaught in New Westminster where she made many lifelong friends. She attended normal school at UBC and became a teacher Her first job was in a one room school at the Flying U Ranch at Green Lake in 1950 as a single woman of 20. She went on to teach home economics in Lumby, Clinton, and Haney She met dad in 1959 and they married in 1960. They moved to Quesnel in 1960 and resided there until 1995. Mom taught home economics and was beloved by her students. When she returned to teaching after her children were in school, she taught Kindergarten She retired in 1995 and moved with dad to a riverfront property in Kamloops where they built their second house together She always had a smile on her face. She will be missed greatly by her family, friends and community
Many thanks to the staff at Pine Grove Care Facility for their excellent care of Sharon in her last eleven months. By Sharon’s request she was cremated and there will be no service. In lieu of flowers a donation could be made to the Alzheimer ’s Society of BC.
Eddy Johnny Valere De Witte passed away on April 16, 2023.
He is survived by his wife Janna and 3 sons Nole, Owen and Merek, sister Katty (Philippe), nieces Alexandra (Jean, Lilou), Coline and (brother Rudy) Lien (Sam, Jason), in-laws Lynn (aka Gran), Florence (Laurie), Keith (Ivy, Barin & Isabella). Eddy was predeceased by his mother Annie, father Don, brother Rudy and father-in-law Robin.
Eddy was a wonderful husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and son. He loved his kids and always encouraged them to follow their ambitions and loved to play with them at every age. He liked gathering with family and friends to have fun, and he always made sure there was enough food for everyone, if you have been camping with us you knew you were taken care of. He liked to share his adventures whether it was going out boating, biking, hiking, camping, adventures near or abroad. Planning activities and things to do that everyone could enjoy made him happy He had a dry sense of humour that often caught you off guard and made me laugh so much.
He had an abundance of patience with me (his wife) as he waited for me to get ready to go…, well anywhere. I wondered that his patience wasn't all used up on me…, but it wasn't as he still had patience left for others. He was always thinking of the future and looking forward for us and his kids, thinking of all the little things that needed to be done and how to get them done. He was always ready to lend a hand and enjoyed helping others with projects on the go.
He loved his work and took great pride in getting a job done right, as any contractor who worked with him will tell you. As for the contractors he worked with, he counted you as friends and enjoyed working with you and would go above and beyond for you to do a good job.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a hospice house in your area.
A service for Eddy will be held at North Shore Community Center on Thursday, April 20th, 2023, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
Condolences may be expressed to the family by emailing kamloops@cypressfuneral.ca
1938 - 2023
It is with the saddest hearts that we say goodbye.
Ann Bartlett was born on November 5, 1938, and died after a diagnosis of cancer, on April 4, 2023. Ann was born in Skegness, England then moved to Bury St Edmunds, England, where she raised her family with the love of her life, Dennis Bartlett. In 1981, Ann and her family would move to Victoria, BC, Canada. She would call two more communities home, Squamish and Kamloops. Wherever she went, she would meet and create lifelong friends.
Ann was predeceased by her loving husband Dennis Bartlett, parents Charles and Amy Morgan, her sister Joan Grantham and her grandson Christian Jelasco.
Ann is survived by her daughters Alida Jorgensen (Len), Fiona Guidi (Chad), and Clare Bartlett, her son Kevin Bartlett (Britt) her many loving grandchildren and greatgrandchild and brothers Jim and Fred.
Ann was a loving wife, daughter, sister, mother, and Nanny She loved quilting, volunteering, gardening, music, and taking care of those she loved. She will be forever remembered for her heart and beautiful smile.
October 23, 1936 - April 9, 2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear Ray A Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather
He is survived by the love of his life and best friend for 64 years Stella. His children Kim Kryger (Rob) and Daniel Scott (Michele). His grandchildren Brittany Kryger, Whitney Renney (Craig), Matthew Kryger (Taya), and Joshua Scott (Catherine). His great-grandchildren Evan Renney, Beau Kryger, Maya Kryger, Lianna Scott, and Jamie Scott. He loved them all so much and we are very sure they will remember a game they played with him called “Papa Monster” while chasing them all over the Knutsford hills with a sheet on his head.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Thomas and Winnifred Scott, sister Ruth Arnt, and brothers Ches Scott and Lester Stringer Survived by his sisters Eileen Campbell, Marge Ewacheski (John), and Terry Scott.
Ray loved God and Jesus with all his heart, soul, and mind. He read his bible daily
Ray played professional baseball in the states in 1957 but decided to come home because he missed family The Kelowna team signed him to play for them and this is where he met the love of his life Stella. The rest is history
Later he moved to Kamloops and was employed by Dearborn Motors. Upon his eventual retirement he continued with his quarter horse business at his Knutsford ranch. From a work standpoint this was the “Horse Whisperer ’s” dream job.
In later years he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Ray and Stella decided to sell off their little piece of heaven for a simpler life.
We wish to thank the amazing staff at Ponderosa Lodge. We cannot say enough about the excellent and loving care. Thank you to Dr Cribb who was always willing to talk.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”.
2 Timothy 4:7
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
There will be a private family interment at Hillside Cemetery followed by a celebration of life at a later date.
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gary Curtis Valin on March 21, 2023 in Brooks, Alberta.
Gary was born on March 12, 1987 in Kamloops, British Columbia.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Luna, his mom Carmen Chatterley, step-dad Gerry Chatterley, father Brent Valin, his brothers and sisters James Valin (Justus), Kim Tagg (Dustin), Emily Valin (John) Jason Valin, Victor Valin, Aiden Valin, Alexandra Valin, Rebecca Valin, his grandma Bonnie Ryde, aunt Lori Valin , aunt Corina Jackson, aunt and uncle Laurie and Jamie Fancy, cousin Megan Stephenson along with many other aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.
Gary will be sadly missed by all who knew him. His smile and gentleness forever embedded in our hearts and minds.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at the Kamloops Free Methodist Church at 1:00 pm, located at 975 Windbreak Street, Kamloops, B.C.
All of Gary's family and friends are welcome to attend.
With all our love it is with great sadness our dad /Poppa was called home.
Robert Williamson White passed away peacefully April 5, 2023, in Royal Inland Hospital with his family by his side.
Robert was born September 16, 1932, to Rhoda Margaret Shaw and Frank Borland White in Richmond BC. Rob went to school at Bridgeport Elementary from grades 1 to 6. The family came to the Heffley- Louis Creek valley in April of 1943, when Rob was a young boy of 10 years old. Their home was the Shaw Ranch at that time (settled by his grandfather) and became well known as Whitecroft Ranch.
Rob attended McGillivray school, taught by his mother In the fall of 1949, he went to Kamloops to complete his senior year In May of 1950, he lost his own father to a horse accident and returned home to work on the ranch with his mother and brother-in-law, Jack Brady
Rob started full time ranching at 17 years old, milking cows and buying and selling cattle until retirement. In June 1956 at the age of 24, Rob met the love of his life, Rose Kingston at a Heffley Creek dance. They married on November 10, 1956.
Rob had a lot to do with the development of Tod Mountain in the early years including taking the early developers up on horseback. From 1968-1970 Rob ran the small T-bar at Tod Mtn. Rob taught skiing for 5 years at Tod Mountain ski resort alongside Jim McConkey eventually joining his adult children on ski patrol.
Rob was very active in the cattle ranching community in the Kamloops area and a long-time member of the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association as well as being very active in the North Thompson Fall Fair for 4 H members. Rob was an excellent horseman, poet and story teller
November 26, 1967 - March 1, 2023
By 1969 Rob took on school bus driving to get his own children to public school and drove for 20 years until retiring.
Rob also worked at Burfield’s ski shop in Kamloops between morning and afternoon bus trips as well as Jardine’s sports shop. He was well respected by the local families and children whose lives he touched.
Rob loved to travel with Rose, they visited Hawaii, Tahiti, Mexico, Columbia, Palm Springs, Jamaica and lots of local lakes camping and water-skiing.
By 1976 Rob and Rose build a home on one of their satellite properties, before retiring to Rayleigh and eventually Kamloops.
Rob was a bit of a jokester teasing people to make them smile even later in the seniors home pretending to run over the residents’ toes with his walker just to get a giggle. His grandchildren have fond memories of Halloween pranks at Poppas place. He loved people and could talk to anyone!
Rob leaves behind to cherish his life Frank White (Candise), Rosemary Kanigan (Don), Shannon McIlquham (Brian). Poppa to his grandchildren David White (Beckay Dusenbury), Derek White, Sarah White (Jimmy Broomfield), Jacey Stanley (Pete Ludwick), Darcy (Tyler) Wilk, Erin (Matt) Brady, Brianna McIlquham (Devon Jones). Also fondly remembered by his sister-inlaw Louise Oakes, and 10 great-grandchildren; as well as nephew Barry Brady (Maureen), niece Brenda Steiner (Ueli), nieces Diana Wren (Bob), Christina Oakes (Morgan) and families. Many other extended members of the family: cousins, nieces and nephews are left to remember Rob with love, as are many friends.
Predeceased by his parents Frank and Rhoda White, his loving wife Rose White of 66 years, his sister and brother-in-law Velma (Jack) Brady, his brother-in-law, Stan Oakes, niece Sandy Oakes, great nephew Darin Brady
The family would like to thank Chartwell Ridgepoint Retirement Residence, Dr.Wege, RIH staff and Doctors for their excellent care of Rob in his last days, and their compassion.
No service by request, a memorial will be held at a later date, to allow distant family members and friends to attend.
Beloved father, friend and husband passed away at the age of 56 in Kamloops, BC. George was a kind and thoughtful soul and will be missed and remembered by the many lives he touched. Always near and forever in our hearts.
George will be laid to rest at 1:00 pm on Thursday, April 20, 2023 in the Hillside Cemetery, 750 Notre Dame Dr., Kamloops.
Condolences may be sent to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
250-554-2577
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.
Rob wrote many poems for his true love, Rose. “My Rose My Wife”- our 55th Wedding Anniversary
The Rose I picked so long ago Has bloomed Through the years
My wife, my rose how I love her so
Through laughter, love and tears
Her hair has turned to silver grey
Through all those years together
Each curl in place, frames a face
That I will love forever
There may be lines
Across her brow
Gathered over the years
Most are lines of laughter
Some have come from tears
Our family has grown now
Going their separate ways
Our life is filled with memories
Of those bygone days
Grandchildren arrived as blessings
How we love to see them so
We will live in their memories
As their own families grow
The Rose I picked as a young man
So many years ago
Was one of a kind, there was no other
That’s why I love her so
Love you Dad, “see you in the funnies”
Condolences may be sent to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
250-554-2577
“Spring cleaning isn’t just for houses,” says Dearborn Ford general manager
Justin Grover
Based on the popular house flipping show Love It or List It, Grover wanted to offer his customers or new potential customers a similar option.
That’s where Detail to Decide came from. Dearborn’s reconditioning department is confident people will fall in love with their vehicle again after a detail, while its sales department is confident in the lineup of vehicles it can get you and believes that, despite your current vehicle looking its best, you’re going to want to trade it in for a new-to-you ride
“Once our customers see the vehicles coming out of our shop, it seems like the same look people have after buying a new vehicle,” says reconditioning department manager Lyle Hilton, adding that it is all for less than many new vehicle payments.
The investment for reconditioning your vehicle as close to its original glory is only $249 for Dearborn’s Detail to Decide package, which includes a full interior detail, as well as an exterior bath.
“Our reconditioning department does an amazing job at what they do,” says sales manager Sam Thacker. “That said we in the sales team can offer great features for people who have experienced a life change”
Often people in the market for a new vehicle have experienced life changes of some kind, be it a promotion, a new addition to the family or the kids moving out. If your vehicle doesn’t fit your new lifestyle, you’re going to need to invest in a new ride.
Grover sees both sides of the coin and wanted to have some fun this spring with the Detail to Decide promotion.
Book your Detail to Decide appointment with Dearborn’s reconditioning department and, once the detail is complete, the sales team will provide you with a current market assessment of your vehicle
You then get to decide whether you love it again or if you want to trade it in at its maximum value toward purchase of another vehicle If you decide to trade the vehicle in toward the purchase of a new vehicle with Dearborn, the dealership will cover the detail investment. If you fall in love with your ride again and want to keep it, you cover the detail cost and enjoy your ride again.
“It’s win, win for our customers,” Grover says. “Either way, they’re leaving the dealership with a smile on their face and that’s all that matters to me ”
To book your Detail to Decide package with Dearborn’s reconditioning department, call the service department at 250-371-7101 or visit in person at 2555 East Trans-Canada Hwy. in Valleyview and check out the inventory.
The venerable Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market will open for the 2023 season this Saturday (April 22) downtown in the 200-block of St. Paul Street and on the ground of the former Stuart Wood elementary.
The market will run every Saturday through October from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
This weekend’s opening will see also see a celebration of Earth Day, which falls on the same day. The market has teamed up with the City of Kamloops and several not-for profit groups to mark Earth Day.
“We’re putting on a bit of a celebration,” market manager Greg Unger said. “The city is highlighting some of the sustainability programs, the Kamloops Food Policy Council will share their community gardens program and the Kamloops Library will have some interactive activities for children, as well.”
As for market mainstays, Unger said visitors can expect all of the crowd favourites.
“There are going to be lots of baked goods and puffed pastries available. The prepared food vendors are all really excited,” he said, noting a new vendor will be selling churros and another will be offering a specialty East German pastry.
Unger said all of the crafters located in the former schoolyard are excited to get going again
“It’s gonna be full right from the beginning,” he said.
Although still a bit early for fruits and vegetables, Unger said there will be some root veggies, including potatoes, carrots, squash and garlic.
Farmers will be selling seeds and bedding plants for those looking to get their planting underway early.
Since 2021, Unger said, there has been a “huge influx of people [vendors] wanting to get into the market, to the point where we have to be a little picky who we let in. Which
is, I guess, a good problem to have.”
Unger said the farmers’ market can hold between 100 and 120 vendors, noting the number of vendors looking to establish a presence at the market has increased substantially since the end of the season in October 2019, with nearly 200 applications.
At the end of May 2020, applications had to be closed, with more than 300 vendors looking for a spot.
“It’s the same trend this year,” Unger said. “We’re set to break last year’s record, in terms of people trying to get in.”
With the Stuart Wood shelter for the homeless remaining open through the summer, Unger said he has no concerns.
“The city, Out of the Cold Kamloops and BC Housing have been very upfront with me about what they expect will happen and have been good at communicating with us,” he said.
Unger said community services officers will be inspecting the area before vendors and the public arrive.
“In terms of the market itself, I really don’t think it’ll be impacted very much,” he said.
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.
“The city has really put a lot of thought into this. They started communication with us really early in the process, before it was even confirmed. They just wanted us to feel comfortable with how things were going.”
The Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market began in 1978. The Wednesday market will begin on May 3 and run from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the 400-block of Victoria Street.
For more information on upcoming events at the market, go online to kamloopsfarmersmarket.com.
The 12th annual Chris Rose Walk for Autism will take place on Saturday, April 22.
The walk will start at the Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism, at 1111 Tranquille Rd. in North Kamloops. Registration is at 10 a.m., followed by the warmup and walk at 10:45 a.m.
Participants will proceed to McArthur Island, then return to the centre ,where the North Kamloops Lions Club will have hamburgers and hot dogs available for purchase for a small fee, the proceeds of which are donated to the event.
All funds raised from the walk stay within the centre to promote programs and services for children, youth and adults.
The walk will take about an hour to complete. Registration is by donation, but there is a minimum $10 donation to receive a T-shirt.
More information is available at the Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism website at chrisrosecentre. org.
Wanda Eddy, executive director of the Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism, said the annul walk serves two essential functions — to spread awareness of what autism is and that the centre exists in Kamloops and to raise money for the centre.
“We’re not fully funded and we are a non-profit, so we need to fundraise around 40 to 50 per cent of our operating budget,” Eddy said.
“I remember when I first started in this field, we talked about one in 10,000 people had autism. Now it’s one in 66. That’s an incredible difference. I think we’ve seen people becoming much more aware and more accepting. Each individual is so different. We want to accept them not because they have ASD (autism spectrum disorder), but because they are an individual.”
The Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism is named after educator Chris Rose and opened in 1989. Rose worked as a teacher and principal, with a focus on supporting those with special needs. He also spent time as a trustee on the KamloopsThompson board of education.
Thompson Rivers
University English professor George Johnson will be launching an eco-comedy play — Boomerangst — that he penned in anticipation of Earth Day.
The play will be performed in June by Chimera Theatre and the goal is to turn the play into a TV show.
To raise money for the production and transformation to television, there will be an exclusive launch of Climate Crisis, a song and music video from the play, on Earth Day (Saturday, April 22) at Kamloops United Church, downtown at St. Paul Street and Fourth Avenue.
The event will run from 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. and
attendees will have the option to wear costumes from the 1960s and 1970s. Tickets are $25 and available online at eventbrite. ca by searching “Earth Day Celebration and Fundraiser for Boomerangst.”
Climate Crisis is performed by Intensive Care, a band in which Johnson is a member.
“We’ve got a great cast and everything is coming together, but the thing is, it’s an independent production, so that’s why we need to raise money at this Earth Day event,” Johnson said, noting production costs for the play and TV adaptation, with help from Peter Cameron-Inglis of Mastermind Studios, could reach $50,000.
In Boomerangst, an impulsive baby boomer forms a retirement com-
mune with former high school rock bandmates to return to their green roots and ideals. The radical spirits focus on their youthful green ideals and unite against a mining company that threatens their land.
Johnson said the rock band idea came from his high school days performing in a band, also called Intensive Care, which helped inform his vision for this decade-long project.
Meanwhile, Boomerangst will be presented by the Chimera Theatre troupe at Pavilion Theatre from June 8 to 17.
“I feel that laughter is the shortest distance between two people,” Johnson said, quoting humourist Victor Borge. “So, if you can get people to laugh, you can get them on board to entertain and to teach.”
Campus/community radio station CFBX, located on the Thompson Rivers University campus, continues its spring volunteer drive through Sunday, April 23.
CFBX is an entirely volunteer-run and programmed radio station and volunteers do not need to be TRU students to get involved.
CFBX programs a wide variety of music and
spoken word programming with a non-commercial focus and is especially in need of classical music hosts, hip-hop hosts, First Nations hosts and anyone interested in programming in a language other than English.
To get involved, call the station at 250-3773988, email radio@thex.ca or drop by House 8, behind the Campus Activity Centre.
The Kamloops Spring Home and Boat Show drew crowds to the McArthur Island Sport & Event Centre this past weekend with lots of choices for those looking to renovate, decorate or landscape their homes. Boating enthusiasts found lots of choiceds of watercraft in all sizes at the Interior’s largest boat show.
• Barb’s Used Book and Music Sale is now on in downtown Kamloops.
The semi-annual fundraiser for the Kamloops Symphony features used books, CDs, DVDs, vinyl records and sheet music, with most items available for $2.
The sale runs to May 6, open Wednesdays to Fridays from noon to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.
The sale is located at 444 Seymour St. next to the Big Little Science Centre.
• Western Canada
Theatre’s production of Grease continues at Sagebrush Theatre through April 29, with tickets available online at kamloopslive.ca.
WCT artistic director James MacDonald is directing 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 plays piano and performs as Johnny Casino.
The cast and crew includes 17 actors, six musicians and 12 others on the creative team, including directors, managers, designers and engineers.
If you have a photo of a charity donation, a grand-opening picture or other uplifting images, email them to editor@kamloopsthisweek.com, with “eye on community” in the subject line.
Boogie the Bridge is Kamloops’ largest celebration of movement. The 26th annual CFJC TV Boogie the Bridge is happening on Sunday, April 23.
Take part in a run, walk or stroll along one of three distances. This year, the run is once again starting in Riverside Park. From the park, the route heads across Overlanders Bridge to the North Shore and follows Rivers Trail along the North Thompson River.
Over the years, Boogie the Bridge has inspired hundreds of people to make a difference in their lives, the lives of their families and the lives of their community members, through movement and community involvement. It also raises money for charity. The annual event is full of fun, with bands, inspirational chalking and plenty of cheering and encouragement along the route.
To participate (run or walk) in the 1K Kids’ Mini-Boogie, 5K, 10K or 21.1K halfmarathon distances, email registration@ boogiethebridge.com.
Boogie the Bridge is also looking for volunteers. To sign up, email registration@ boogiethebridge.com. More information is online at boogiethebridge.com.
The Kamloops Community Band’s recent Play Like the Dickens concert raised $2,000 for two funds of special interest to the band: the Richard Dickens Music Scholarship and the Donald Bennett Music Legacy Fund. The Richard Dickens Music Scholarship is available for students in School District 73 music programs to study music for up to four years at a post-secondary institution. The Donald Bennett Music Legacy Fund was established to support local community music organizations with such matters as workshops and clinics and offer financial support for lessons and instrument rental for musicians in those organizations. Both funds are administered by the BC Interior Community Foundation. Richard “Dick” Dickens was the founder of the Kamloops Community Band. Don Bennett was a co-conductor of the band, as well as its librarian. Both made significant contributions to music education and the local music community. The Kamloops Community Band’s next performance is Music in Bloom on Wednesday, May 10, at the Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle, at 1550 Tranquille Rd. in Brocklehurst. The concert will feature the world premiere performance of Spring by local composer and band member Ryan Noakes and Shuswap Overture by the late Oliver Rinaldi, another Kamloops native. In the photo, from the left, members of the band executive present a cheque to the BC Interior Community Foundation, which manages both funds: band librarian Bob Eley, band president Loren Phillips, music director Cliff Noakes and BC Interior Community Foundation executive director Wenda Noonan.
Volunteers are an integral component of community policing services in Kamloops. As an RCMP volunteer, you will:
• Get connected to your neighbours and your neighbourhood.
• Meet new people from diverse backgrounds and build a stronger social and professional network.
• Gain skills and experience that will make your job or post-secondary education applications stand out.
• Put your unique skills and abilities to work supporting your local police.
• Learn about crime and safety in your community and what you can do to keep your family, friends and property safe.
Whether you are a young adult considering a career in law enforcement, a retiree looking for a way to use your skills and experience to give back to your community or someone who simply wants to help the police create safer, healthier neighbourhoods, the Kamloops RCMP has volunteer opportunities that will help you reach your goals while supporting the police in working to reduce crime and enhance public safety.
Volunteers interested in Crime Watch, Speed Watch, Community Crime Prevention, or Business Watch must be at least 19 years old with a valid BC driver’s Licence. They must be willing and able to obtain
an RCMP security clearance and pass a suitability interview. They must also be proficient in English and/or French and willing to commit to the program for a minimum of two years, with a commitment of 120 hours of volunteer time a year.
Those interested must also be willing to attend a minimum of three general membership meetings per year. Volunteers interested in restorative justice or victim services must also be able to work in a professional manner with sensitive issues.
To apply, go online to https://www.kamloops.ca/public-safety/crime-prevention/ volunteer-opportunities.
For more information, contact the North Shore Community Policing Office by phone at 250-376-5099 or by email at kamloops_ crime_prevention@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. The office can also be visited in person. It is at 915 Seventh St. in North Kamloops.
Aristotle once said the essence of life is “to serve others and do good.”
It’s well documented that volunteerism offers many benefits to those who are recipients of the charitable work, as well as the volunteers.
Volunteers come from all walks of life and various age groups.
Parents and guardians who want to introduce their children to volunteerism may not know when is the right age to do so.
Many experts agree that there isn’t a definitive age for children to get involved in volunteering. In fact, no child is too young to volunteer. Dr. Joseph F. Hagan Jr., a clinical professor of pediatrics at Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, said helping out during the toddler and preschool years helps shape a child’s sense of morality.
Rather than wondering if a child is too young to volunteer, adults should focus on finding the right activity to match the child’s age. For example, a three- or four-year-old child can fill bags or boxes with donated
food or help gather blankets and towels to donate to an animal rescue. However, a toddler or preschooler may not have the stamina to complete a 5K charity walk.
Volunteerism doesn’t even have to be in the traditional sense of working with an established charity.
A youngster can pick flowers from a field and deliver them to an elderly neighbor. A preschooler can invite a child playing alone to come play together. A toddler who loves sorting items can help sort recycling items at home and watch a parent deliver them to the recycling centre.
Another way to engage kids in volunteer work is to match their interests with the tasks. Many kids can’t get enough of animals, so they may want to help out an animal organization or be involved with a conservation group. A child can collect change to “adopt” an endangered species.
Children are almost never too young to volunteer. Finding the right fit can inspire a lifetime of giving back that benefits youngsters throughout their lives.
Acall to attract and retain volunteers has been made by Volunteer Kamloops in an effort to help non-profit organizations mitigate the challenges of being understaffed.
The labour market outlook, ongoing inflation and a projected recession have made it difficult to encourage people to give the gift of time to others as many struggle to make ends meet.
“Our No. 1 goal is to try to attract more volunteers to Volunteer Kamloops,” Volunteer Kamloops Anita Jacobsen spokesperson said, noting there are more than 50 organizations it serves in Greater Kamloops.
There will be more than one-million job openings in B.C. between 2022 and 2032, according to WorkBC, which has dramatically altered the labour
market outlook.
“So many organizations are struggling. The community is being affected and there’s some very vulnerable people out there,” Jacobsen said.
She said the surge in rental prices and the cost of living has forced many volunteers to find secondary part-time employment to supplement their primary source of income, which she noted has deteriorated the fabric of volunteerism in Greater Kamloops.
“There’s a volunteer shortage,” Jacobsen said. “People kind of fell out of that. If they take a month break, they’re still excited about volunteering, but when you have a really long break, it’s hard for people to get motivated.”
She noted the Snow Angels program was successful during the height of the pandemic because volunteers could be
physically active and outside while giving back to the community. However, the number of applications to help seniors with shovelling snow during the winter of 2021-2022 began to taper off as more social restrictions began to lapse, which resulted in a shortage of volunteers this past winter.
“It’s hard to ask people to give more than they can,” Jacobsen said. “I probably have between seven and 10 new applications a week, which is really lovely. There are so many organizations out there that need help. Even if you can help one day a week for two hours, that might just be the one piece that an organization needs to reopen a program. It can be a one-day-a-week commitment to make a difference.”
Those interested in volunteering can email Jacobsen at info@ volunteerkamloops.org.
Thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers, the tremendous and committed volunteer base that CSI has always had has been essential to its success in our society. We want to express our gratitude to everyone for their ongoing support. We are always welcoming new volunteers. Please get in touch with us to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
• Involve leadership:
It’s important to get the backing and approval of company leaders before starting a volunteer group. Since you may be using company resources and infringing on some company time, make sure that higher-ups are supportive.
• Choose a cause to support:
While national non-profits are worthy of support, employees may be more excited about partnering with local initiatives. Human resource departments or the employees who are starting volunteer programs at work can poll workers on which causes to stand behind.
• Start recruiting volunteers: Reach out to employees and spell out the program’s mission during your recruitment efforts. This may be a task that the human
resources department can help with. If the company has a department that organizes employee engagement activities, then that group would be a valuable resource as well.
It’s also important to think about where volunteers may fit in. Assigning jobs and figuring out how many volunteers and man hours will be required to complete tasks can provide a greater sense of the scope of the venture.
• Establish when volunteerism will take place:
It’s best to have ground rules about how much of the employersupported volunteer work will occur after hours. Some companies may be amenable to having a certain pockets of time taken from the work day — such as early dismissal Fridays for volunteers.
Easter has again passed.
Our Easter faith assures us that in Christ’s resurrection, God has already overcome the power of death and evil.
The old life is gone and a new life has begun — a life of gratitude and joy, a life in which the Holy Spirit sets us free to accept ourselves and to love God and neighbour.
It binds us together with all believers in the one body of Christ — the church.
During and long after Easter, every Christian believer is called to be a witness to the resurrection. We are called to go and tell, As disciples of the risen Christ, we are called to live into the joy and freedom of the new creation and to share the gospel with anyone who needs to hear it.
What happens after the Easter celebration each year depends on Christ’s believers. God’s redemptive purpose for the world will prevail through those who answer the resurrected Christ’s call to follow him and carry on his purpose and work.
The good news is that we are not alone to carry on the post-Easter mission of Christ. In a broken and fearful world, the Holy Spirit gives us the courage to pray without ceasing, to witness among all peoples to Christ as lord and saviour, to unmask idolatries in church and culture and to work with others for justice, freedom and peace.
That’s how the Easter story continues.
Giacomo Puccini, who wrote great operas, including Madame Butterfly and La Boheme, was stricken with cancer in 1922. He decided to write one more opera, Turandot.
One of his students asked, “But suppose you die before you finish it?”
“Oh, my disciples will finish it,” Puccini replied confidently.
Puccini died in 1924 and his disciples did
The Big Deal Coupon Book is available,still $10.
The coupon book offers deal at various places in Kamloops and is in effect until Se[t. 30. The books can be purchased at the St. Joseph’s Bookstore, downtown at 256 Nicola St.
NARAYAN MITRA
You Gotta Have FAITH
finish his last opera. Puccini’s best friend, Franco Alfano, worked from sketches left by the composer to complete the opera, which many consider to be his best work. The premiere took place in Milan, Italy. Arturo Toscanini, one of his best students, was the conductor.
The performance began and continued to the point at which Puccini’s work had abruptly ended.
Toscanini paused and said to the audience, “Thus far, the master wrote … and then the master died.”
He then picked up the baton and shouted to the audience, “But his disciples finished his music!”
As Christian believers, we are charged with the task of finishing the music, the melody and direction of which we can discern in the acts of God in history and in the life and teachings of Jesus. God, who in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, is making all things new and what happens next is up to us.
So, let us go and tell. We are called to carry on the Easter story. God calls us to live beyond
our fear of death and any leftover doubts about the reality of a resurrection life. The women at the tomb were terrified and amazed. Yet they went to Galilee and saw the risen Christ. They must have proclaimed the good news to others.
Now it’s up to us to carry on the gospel story.
As Christians, we are called to take risks, to make ourselves vulnerable in love, to share with strangers, to dare to challenge unjust power.
God calls us to live beyond our fears and doubts.
In the resurrection, God showed us His amazing, life-giving power. We know the story of our life with God has a joyful ending. Just as Jesus went on ahead to Galilee to where the first disciples lived their everyday lives, Jesus has promised to be with us.
We know His presence in very real ways where His story is proclaimed and where the bread and wine are shared as sign and seal of His risen presence in and among us.
But we will also find him in moments of despair or need. We don’t need to be afraid because God’s love is stronger than sin and death. Christ is alive and is in and among us — forgiving, healing, empowering and calling each of us to follow until his promised final coming back.
Christ is alive today, bringing hope, joy and new life,
Narayan Mitra is a volunteer chaplain at Thompson Rivers University. His email address is ryanmitra225@gmail.com. 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.
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
Knit in the Round 4/$80
Knitting in the round may sound scary but is actually one of the easiest techniques to master It will open a whole world of knitting projects - sweaters, hats, mittens, and socks will be within reach! Some supplies required pre-requisites: should have a basic knowledge and skills for knitting
Sa-Hali Secondary School
Wed May 3 - 24
6:30 PM -8:00 PM
Sound Bath Club
1/$140
Join Kate and the crystal singing bowls for an 8-week sound bath series! Each week the group will meet, connect with one another, experience a 60-minute sound bath and have the option to share what comes up Weekly sound baths help release pain and tension assist with sleep, make it easier to go with the flow and feel flexible, increase focus the benefits are endless! Please bring a water bottle, a mat, items to make yourself cozy and wear comfortable clothing
Old Courthouse
Thurs May 3 - June 22
6:30 PM -8:00 PM
You don’t want to have mundane tasks hanging over your head, Aries Tr y to check as many of them off your to-do list this week as you can This will free up a lot of free time
Taurus, you may be planning a much-needed vacation at the present time Figure out a place you’ve never been and then fill your itinerar y with plenty of fun things
You likely will have to devote a lot of attention to practical matters in the days to come, Gemini This includes taking a hard look at your spending and making cuts
Cancer, the coming week will be a busy time for social oppor tunities Other people will want to be around you as you can be the life of the par ty when you come out of your shell
Don’t be surprised if your energy level is high this week, Leo This leads to you feeling restless at home and even at work This could be a fine time to take up a hobby
Virgo, you may be looking for ward to an evening out with a romantic par tner or close friends Tr y to narrow down a day this week or next Have a few restaurants at the ready
Take advantage of some free time to get things done around the house, Libra Cleaning or other home improvements should be a priority
There’s a lot of activity expected close to home, Scorpio A new business may open or there could be a movie star who is spotted in town Maybe you’ll get new neighbours
The thought of financial prosperity has you scouring the recruitment sites this week, Sagittarius Speak to others about the pros and cons of leaving your current job
APRIL 19, 2023 - APRIL 25, 2023
Capricorn, you are surrounded by positive energy and eager to be out and about with friends this week Star t exploring all of the possibilities around you
This may be a good week to devote a large chunk of time to being alone Some time with just your thoughts and a little silence could be ever ything you need
Pisces, discussions at work could get a bit heated It’s best to distance yourself from these situations as best as you can
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
1 Yippee!
2 Touch up, as text
3 Bottom of the Thames?
4 Cowlick
ARTISTIC DIFFERENCES
By Jeremy Newton and Tracy GrayANSWER: LKMI
CROSSWORD ANSWERS FOUND ON B9
FUN BY THE NUMBERS
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes To solve a sudoku the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
www.kamloopsthisweek.com/leader-awards
Submissions should be approximately 250 words and include information such as: length of time nominee has spent in the community; specific examples of the work and/or contribution he/she has made; community associations and memberships. Please provide references of other individuals who may be able to provide further support on the nominee’s behalf.
Deadline for nominations: Wednesday, May 31
Makes a positive contribution to their sport Is exemplary in developing skills and confidence in participants A role model who inspires and encourages high athletic achievement
Someone who has taken the initiative to engage a variety of local residents in an innovative or new community project or event The initiative may assist different groups to work together, address a gap in community participation, or result in a more inclusive, engaged community
This individual makes a positive contribution to the community by volunteering their time to a variety of causes They are dedicated to making a difference in several initiatives
This person has been in Kamloops less than 3 years but is already making an impact in the community in a leadership position in business, volunteer work or other community involvement
This person under 40 is recognized for going above and beyond in our community who in a variety of fields and endeavours.
A youth that is 19 or under that makes a positive contribution in the community through volunteering Someone who has committed to making a difference to an organization or individual.
Makes a positive contribution by being a true leader An influential counselor, teacher or educator that provides support or sponsorship Demonstrates a high level of ethics and professional standards, is an inspirational motivator, excellent communicator, good listener and a reliable resource to the community
This person has risen above adversity or formidable challenges to become a success. As a result, they have had a positive effect on the people around them.
Everyone is talking about the carbon footprint, but this award celebrates a person who is walking their talk, whether it be riding their bike to work year-round, reusing and reducing, and taking great steps in setting an example for others to follow
This person is making a positive impact on indigenous business and culture in Kamloops and area. Helping spread awareness and growing relationships within Kamloops with indigenous businesses and organizations.
