Kamloops This Week May 3, 2023

BLAZERS PREPARE FOR GAME 4 AT HOME A21

The Thompson River is at its lowest depth since data began being collected in 1911. But the river will rise again — and soon

STORY PAGE A5

C I T Y PAG E

May 3, 2023

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

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

May 3, 2023

5:30 pm - Council and School District No 73

May 8, 2023

10:30 am - Ser vice Agreement Renewals

May 9, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

May 11, 2023

9:00 am - Council Committee Governance Select Committee

May 16, 2023

10:00 am - Committee of the Whole

May 30, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

May 30, 2023

7:00 pm - Public Hearing

The complete 2023 Council Calendars is available online at:

Kamloops.ca/CouncilPor tal

Council Meeting Recap

Sign up for the Council Highlights e -newsletter at:

Kamloops.ca/Subscribe

Notice to Motorists

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

• For tune Drive

Oak Road to Overlanders Bridge

• Singh Street

Ord Road to Parkcrest Avenue

• Lorne Street

Mount Paul Way 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

• Tranquille Road

Ord Road to just south of K amloops BC SPCA

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

Kamloops.ca/Kammute

C A R D B OA R D R E C YC L I N G

As a friendly reminder, please break down rec ycling, especially cardboard Cut large boxes (e g T V or appliance boxes) into smaller, magazine -sized pieces. Pieces that are too big (or folded instead of cut) cause issues with collection.

Tip: Large cardboard can be taken to a rec ycling depot View locations below or use the Waste Wizard in the free Waste Wise K amloops app to look up where to rec ycle cardboard and hundreds of other items

• Bunker Road Rec ycling Depot, 1455 Bunker Road

• Barnhar tvale Landfill Diversion Area, 970 Eliza Road

• General Grant's Nor th Shore, 611 For tune Drive

• General Grant's Sahali, 963 Camosun Crescent

• Mission Flats Landfill Diversion Area, 3095 Mission Flats Road

• Lorne Street Bottle Depot, 270 Halston Avenue Kamloops.ca/Recycling

E M E R G E N C Y S E R V I C E S DAY

Emergenc y ser vices in K amloops are joining forces for Emergenc y Ser vices Day on Saturday, May 6, 2023, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This free event takes place in the Sandman Centre park ing lot at 300 Lorne Street

The event comes a day before Emergenc y Preparedness Week, which takes place May 7–13, to provide residents with the oppor tunity to learn how to be better prepared for emergenc y events and learn about the emergenc y ser vices teams and ser vices in our community

Emergenc y Ser vices Day will feature a variety of emergenc y ser vices par tners, including K amloops Fire Rescue, local RCMP, and BC Ambulance Ser vice More than two dozen par tner organizations will be on site, including BC Sheriff Ser vice, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, K amloops Search and Rescue, K amloops Emergenc y Suppor t Ser vices, and many more

Kamloops.ca/Events

2023 ACC E S S I B I L I T Y P L A N

The City of K amloops has a goal to be one of the most accessible, inclusive cities in Canada and to be a model for other municipalities to follow. In addition to our commitment to diversity and equity-seek ing communities, we are work ing to ensure that the City meets or exceeds the requirements laid out in the Accessible BC Act by reviewing and updating our existing 2018 Accessibility and Inclusion Plan.

The update and development of the Accessibility Plan will help to advance the City ’s effor ts to make its work place, ser vices, and the built environment accessible and welcoming to ever yone How to Par ticipate:

• Take our sur vey or ask a question, visit: LetsTalk Kamloops ca/AccessibilityPlan

• In person: Find us at the Farmers' Market on May 3 or at the Downtown and Nor th Shore Libraries on May 6 Find full details at: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/AccessibilityPlan

E M E R G E N C Y A L E R T S E R V I C E

The City of K amloops, Tkemlúps te Sec wépemc, and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District ( TNRD) are encouraging all residents to register for Voyent Aler t! in advance of the 2023 flood and wildfire seasons

All three local governments utilize Voyent Aler t!, an emergenc y notification system that allows residents to register for emergenc y updates via SMS text, phone call, email, or app notification, mak ing the system accessible in both urban and rural settings A recent update to the app now allows residents to seamlessly register any proper ty within the City, Tkemlúps te Sec wépemc, or TNRD boundaries to the same account and receive notifications from the appropriate local government.

As some devices automatically offload unused apps, registered app users are encouraged to verify that the app is active on their devices

Registration for Voyent Aler t! is free, easy to use, and anonymous, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Download the free Voyent Aler t! app or register online today

Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461

For after-hours emergencies, press 1.

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

Kamloops.ca/Voyent

HELP FILL

FRASERWAY RV WITH FOOD

With inflation resulting in skyrocketing food prices, more and more people are having trouble filling their cupboards and fridges — and food banks are being challenged, as well.

As a result, Fraserway RV-Kamloops has teamed up with the Kamloops Food Bank to

TODAY’S FLYERS

Your Independent Grocer*, Walmart*, Shoppers,* Safeway*, Rexall*, Princess Auto*, Peavey Mart*, Nutters*, Nature’s Fare*,

WEATHER FORECAST

May 3: Chance of showers 29/13 (hi/low)

May 4: Sunny 28/12 (hi/low)

May 5: Showers 24/9 (hi/low)

May 6: Chance of showers 15/8 (hi/low)

May 7: Sun and clouds 18/8 (hi/low)

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launch a campaign to fill an RV full of food items over the next month.

As a sponsor of the Memorial Cup tournament, which will begin on May 26 in Kamloops, Fraserway RV will feature a cobranded RV for the endeavour.

The RV will be driven around Kamloops

throughout May, leading up to the Memorial Cup, and will be parked in high traffic locations every Saturday to seek donations from the community.

Check the company’s website at fraserway.com and follow Fraserway’s Facebook and Instagram pages for weekly locations.

City rivers will rise — eventually

Kamloops residents can expect to see the Thompson Rivers rise about six feet following last weekend’s heat wave, but historically low river levels are keeping the risk of flooding at bay for the time being.

City of Kamloops utility services manager Greg Wightman told KTW the North and South Thompson rivers are expected to rise about two metres (6.5 feet) over the course of the next 10 days as a result of the heat and rain impacting snow at higher elevations, essentially kicking off the start of freshet season.

Despite the water’s impending rise, the city is still only monitoring river levels as there is still plenty of capacity in the rivers due to historically low water levels.

“The Thompson River at Overlanders Bridge is the lowest it’s been since 1911,” Wightman said. “We’ve got a lot of room in that river.”

Wightman said April 2023 is the lowest water level on record, noting 1911 was not the low year, just as far back as the data from the BC River Forecast Centre stretches.

On May 2, the depth was 3.2 metres, but it was at 1.7 metres at the start of April.

Wightman said the smaller streams the city monitors — such as Campbell, Heffley, Noble and Peterson creeks — still have low streamflows right now and a lot of capacity to accommodate the spring runoff.

“Everything’s so low right now, we haven’t even started any of the actions in our flood response plan,” he said. “We’re so delayed on the melt this year. We’re a little but behind, but just as vigilant as always.”

A cool spring and shallower than normal snowpack has delayed the start of freshet season, Wightman said.

He said it’s difficult to tell how far behind this year is compared to normal, but one indicator is Campbell Creek. It usually reaches peak river flow this week, the first week of May, but so far has barely begun to rise.

Wightman said the city typically monitors for flooding until the middle of June, when

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City of Kamloops utility services manager Greg Wightman April 2023 is the lowest Thompson River water level on record, since data began being collected in 1911. On May 2, the depth was 3.2 metres, but it was at 1.7 metres at the start of April.

the Thompson rivers typically hit their peak, but noted it is difficult to predict when that will occur this year as it is ultimately weatherdependent.

“But it’s definitely a better sign on the freshet front when you don’t have an elevated snowpack,” Wightman said, noting the downside of that is the potential for drought, which can increase the wildfire risk.

David Campbell of the BC River Forecast Centre told KTW that watersheds in the Cache Creek area and the Deadman and Bonaparte rivers are experiencing the most snowmelt runoff in the Kamloops area at the moment.

“Certainly a lot of activity on those smaller systems,” Campbell said.

The River Forecast Centre, as of May 2, has a flood watch in place for those areas of the Lower Thompson basin and, Campbell said, the agency is monitoring for rain in the forecast this week, which could amplify flooding conditions.

“As we go through this week, the [flood] risk will depend on how much snow is left,” Campbell said in reference to the Cache Creek region, which remains under a local state of emergency as Cache Creek breached its banks this past weekend.

Campbell said high river flows should subside after this week, with more runoff filling up the larger river systems in response to the warm weather in the coming week.

As of April 1, the snowpack for the North Thompson basin was 82 per cent of normal, while the South Thompson basin was 97 per cent of normal. The next report will be released on May 9.

Wightman said the public should be aware that flood season has officially begun. If residents see any landslides, slope failures and water in places it should not be, they should contact the City of Kamloops’ civic operations department at 250-828-3461.

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Mounties apologize for comments at shelter

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops RCMP officers made insensitive comments about a man suffering an overdose, while another Mountie recorded an apparent social media video at the Merit Place homeless shelter in Southgate.

In an emailed statement, to KTW, Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley confirmed the incidents took place and that he and the detachment’s professional standards unit reviewed the two complaints from the CMHA.

“The complaints were taken very seriously,” Pelley’s statement reads. “A review was conducted and the performance concerns were addressed with the responding officers under our public complaints procedures and protocols. One of the complaints was resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant and we expect resolution of the second one shortly.”

The executive director of the shelter operator, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA),

is hoping the relationship with the Kamloops RCMP will improve following a pair of investigations and an apology.

Reading from a pair of staff reports, CMHA executive Alfred Achoba told KTW the incidents with police took place on March 25 and April 4. Police respond regularly to the shelter as part of the emergency response of paramedics and firefighters attending the scene of an overdose.

“I think it speaks to some of the systemic issues we’ve heard with officers and the need for more humanity and empathy,” Achoba said of the incidents, which were first reported by Infotel.

On April 4, Achoba said, three Kamloops RCMP officers, two men and a woman, attended Merit Place, the former Greyhound depot, as part of an overdose call and used insensitive language toward the person overdosing.

Achoba said staff overheard the Mounties comment that the nasal naloxone should be kept for themselves or people who matter, that the overdose victim smelled “like shit”

and that it was a waste to use the naloxone kit on the person.

One of the officers responded “Not all of us” after a paramedic told the overdose victim there were people in the shelter concerned for his well-being.

Achoba said the RCMP’s professional standards unit sent him an apology on behalf of the three officers shortly after he reported the April 4 incident. He said one of the male officers returned to the shelter at Notre Dame Drive and Laval Crescent to apologize for his comments.

Days earlier, on March 25, Achoba said, a male officer attended an overdose call at the shelter and staff saw him recording a video on Snapchat — an instant messaging app known for producing multimedia that is only available for a short time and automatically erased shortly after being sent.

Achoba said the officer appeared to be recording shelter users and/or the inside of the shelter, noting the officer’s actions were captured by the building’s in-house security camera

system. Achoba said he contacted Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley and asked for an investigation, noting he sent Pelley video from the in-house security camera system as evidence.

Achoba said he does not believe it is standard procedure for an officer to record video when no crime had occurred, arguing the officer breached the privacy of the shelter and its users.

Achoba said the officer was said to have been on scene for about 40 minutes before he started recording and was spotted in the building by staff recording another video days after the incident.

Achoba said he understands how officers can endure frustration on the job, but maintained that irritation need not be directed at people suffering from addiction.

KTW asked for copies of the incident reports, but Achoba declined the request due to privacy issues and the fact the March 25 incident is still under investigation.

Pelley said police presence at Merit Place is a regular occurrence,

How Do I Re duce My Estate Taxes?

We' ve often held client appreciation events including educational seminars on specific financial planning topics

To date, our most attended session was estate planning and strategies to reduce taxes We never thought talking about death and taxes could fill a room

Our previous ar ticle discussed potential tax implications when one passes, including income tax and probate fees As promised, we are following up with strategies that can help reduce tax burdens :

1 Have an up to date Will : First and foremost , please ensure you have a Will in place. Please review it ever y five years or after any major life event (marriage, divorce, bir th of children, etc.).

2 . Appropriate use Joint Accounts : Placing assets/accounts in joint names with spouses or adult children can avoid probate, ease the transition and can help to ensure no bills lapse Some examples include bank accounts, investments, vehicles, safet y deposit boxes and household bills

There are some instances in which joint ownership may NOT make sense For example, adding your adult child to the title of your primar y residence could jeopardize the

Eric Davis

Senior Portfolio Manager and Senior Investment Advisor eric.davis@td.com

Keith Davis Associate Investment Advisor keith davis@td.com

asset if s/he experiences a marital breakdown, business failure, or personal lawsuit Fur thermore, adding one adult child joint , but not all of your children could cause misunderstanding and/or potential strife In addition, adding someone to title on primar y residence could result in losing some of the tax-free capital gain allowance

3 Have named beneficiaries : Review your Retirement Saving Plans, Retirement Income Funds, Tax-Free Savings Accounts ( TFSA), insurance and pensions Remember to also check work policies and investments if applicable Spouses should be designated successor annuitant for TFSAs so they can retain the full tax-free status within their TFSA Sometimes it is wise to name your Estate as beneficiar y on your RSP or RIF so the executor can facilitate distribution and pay taxes. This t ypically makes sense if single, divorced or widowed

4. Take more income now: One of the consequences of losing a spouse is losing the abilit y to income split which can result in a higher tax bracket and loss of Old Age Securit y (OAS). Three common areas to consider are :

I. Drawing RSP or RIFs down faster and/or earlier than age 7 1 - especially if you have larger balances

II. Har vesting capital gains each year from your nonregistered investment

III. Drawing additional wages or dividends from your company

Pro tip: if you have a large amount of credits or deductions in any year (business or investment loss, charitable donation, medical expenses, etc.) be sure to review the merits of taking ex tra income to offset

mostly for non-criminal, medical issues, due to ongoing safety concerns from paramedics, which has led to them requiring police attendance before they will enter the building to respond to a medical call.

Pelley said no further complaints from Achoba have been received since the April 4 incident.

“We are disappointed this occurred and continuously work toward improving our professionalism in the community. We continue to hold ourselves to the highest standards and expect the same of our community partners,” Pelley said.

Despite hesitation from his staff, Achoba said he is confident police professionalism will improve under Pelley, noting he has received that assurance from the city’s top cop.

Once the second investigation wraps up, Achoba said he will request a meeting with Pelley on how to move forward.

BC Housing recently extended the Merit Place shelter’s lease though March 31, 2025, though the CMHA has signed on for only one more year of operating the facility.

5. Pre -Inheritance & Gifting: Since there are no taxes on gifts, consider gifting to loved ones as a pre -inheritance while you are alive, so you can see them enjoy it. Please note, there are special consideration and attribution rules when gifting to minors

6. Charitable : There are significant tax-breaks for the philanthropic This can include strategies such as naming a charit y as beneficiar y on your RSP or RIF to eliminate the tax burden, gifting securities with large capital gains to charities, or making direct bequests in your Will

7. Insurance : Insurance can help replace income, pay taxes (including large capital gains on a recreational proper t y or business) and can be par ticularly useful for blended or complex family situations It t ypically is paid out quickly, tax-free and kept private as flows outside the Will There are additional oppor tunities for incorporated businesses

8. Consider Trusts : Those with substantial assets can explore Trusts to help minimize tax , avoid probate, ensure proper distribution of assets, provide income and retain privac y

The above is not an exhaustive estate planning list Because ever y family has different dynamics and values and estate planning is complex , we strongly recommend that you seek professional guidance to build your estate plan

Until nex t time Invest Well. Live Well.

Written by Eric

BUSINESS COMMUNITY SCHOOLED IN SAFETY, CRIME PREVENTION

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michal@kamloopsthisweek.com

Safety was the name of the game at MacArthur Island Sport and Event Centre as people from the business community took in a session on how to deal with hostile customers and crime.

City of Kamloops crime prevention coordinator Sandro Piroddi spoke to about 20 people who represented a variety of businesses, from stores and restaurants to the hotel sector.

Piroddi’s presentation on April 19 covered issues shoplifting, robberies, loitering and irate customers.

Elaine Kennedy, McDonald’s operations consultant for Kamloops and Merritt, said the presentation made her question whether all of her managers and staff are aware of how to handle these types of situations and she feels that is something they now want to ensure.

“I think that’s where we’re going to go as a business — make sure our people are comfortable with one-on-one dealing with these issues when they come up,” Kennedy said.

Piroddi noted ensuring staff have proper training is the most important takeaway from his presentation. When it comes to suspected shoplifters, Piroddi advised providing them impeccable customer service — offering to hold their items for them, following them and making suggestions on similar products.

He said employees should greet every person who comes through the door as it makes a potential shoplifter less likely to steal if they know employees are alerted to their presence.

Employees should also have a signal to each other if they suspect a shoplifter. In the event something is taken, employees should keep clear of the crime scene and avoid touching anything so police can dust for fingerprints.

Piroddi also highlighted the behaviour of shoplifters, noting they will often avoid eye contact with employees and spend more time browsing near exit routes.

One business representative from Interior Crafts and Hobbies, whose owners were pepper sprayed by a shoplifter last October, asked about physically restraining shoplifters and making citizen arrests.

Piroddi advised against doing so as it could have negative outcomes. He said one alternative could be to let a select number of people enter the store at a time and monitor the door and refuse entry to people who have stolen before.

Safety is the priority in the event of a robbery, Piroddi said. Employees should cooperate and not resist demands from robbers that would put employees or customers at risk of harm, which includes refraining from making

sudden movements.

“Avoid surprises because as much as we’re scared … chances are, if the person’s a robber, they’re going to be the same,” Piroddi said.

He said police should be called immediately after a robber leaves, adding it is important to note their direction of travel for police to follow.

Piroddi said it is also important to gather an accurate description of the robber, noting any weapon they had, and to keep the crime scene clear to preserve evidence.

A person who works in the hotel sector asked if businesses are permitted to have personal protection items behind a counter.

Piroddi noted a panic alarm, which sends an alert to police through a private security company, as one option.

One attendee said his business has such a system, which is expensive and which he said has had instances in which no responses have come through, to which Piroddi noted the owner should reach out to the company about the lack of service and engage a test of the system.

When it comes to dealing with people loitering, Piroddi said it is important to understand they are there for a reason, which may include social contact, criminal intent and access to amenities such as electricity, water, shelter, privacy and/or a bathroom.

He said employees should try to understand why the loiterer is there and adjust their response accordingly. He said employees should only approach loiterers if they feel comfortable and they should never do so alone. He suggested staying arm’s-length away and maintaining empathy and respect to ensure positive social interactions.

As for handling irate customers, Piroddi advised employees be trained on the acronym LESTER — listen, echo, sympathize, thank, evaluate, respond. Those responses involve paying attention to the complaint, confirming what the problem is and asking the customer an open-ended question, such as “What would you like to see done?”

Piroddi said employees should sympathize with the customer even if the employee does not agree with their position, thank them for the opportunity to address the issue and try diffusing any tension by explaining a little bit about themselves in an attempt to arrive at a solution together.

“Maybe there’s something you can do, maybe it’s something you can’t, but at least you’ve heard them,” he said.

If the situation escalates, Piroddi suggested alerting another employee, keep one’s distance from the customer and having a barrier between the employee and the customer. If the employee feels threatened, Piroddi said, they should call police.

JONES Manager of Development and Members for the Kamloops and District Chamber of Commerce the growing business community members!

We’re proud to support over 700 members, with new membership inquiries almost daily The Kamloops & District Chamber provides members opportunities to grow their business and become community leaders through benefit opportunities and professional development programming, including the Business Excellence Awards, industry specific focus groups, networking luncheons, committees, peer led seminars and much more

Contact Brian today at either 778-257-5800 or Brian@KamloopsChamber ca to find out more about joining he growing number of business community memb !

Doing Business with Friends?

or family? Adding personalities to your business venture requires thoughtful planning Whether it’s a Shareholders’ or Partnership Agreement, or a Joint Venture, written contracts are key to governing relationships clearly, and setting out the rights and obligations of all parties.

If you have questions, we’re here to help

com

BRIAN JONES

BRIAN

The power of parent advisory councils OPINION

Parent advisory councils (PACs) are often typecast as the fundraising arm of schools.

And, while hotdog sales, year-end barbecues and other fundraising events are highly visible PAC activities, they are not the most important job these hardworking volunteers do.

Parent advisory councils are, as the name states, “advisory groups.”

As section 8(4) of the School Act states, “a parents’ advisory council, through its elected officers, may advise the board and the principal and staff of the school or the Provincial school respecting any matter relating to the school or the Provincial school. “

The PAC may advise the board, principals and staff of a school on “matters relating to education” in the school and district.

So, what does this mean?

It means that PACs review and approve school fees for materials used in courses, such as foods and metal work. They approve fees for sports and arts academies. They review the spending of those fees with the school principal.

It isn’t until the PAC is happy with how much the fees are and how they will be spent that the fee schedule is brought to the board of education to approve.

It means that when a major policy is being contemplated, PACs have an opportunity to comment and are often consulted before the policy is adopted by the board.

Parents, through PACs, were

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involved with developing our current district strategic plan, which in turn drives budget decisions.

Did you know that PACs and the District Parent Advisory Committee (DPAC) have a dedicated spot on School District 73 board of education agendas for making presentations?

This board values input from parents and has been regularly consulting PACs to brainstorm ideas and concerns about issues the board is concerned about.

Recently, the board has been talking with the PAC at McGowan Park elementary about how to manage overcapacity and the transition related to the newly announced Pineview Valley elementary, which is scheduled to open in September 2026.

We have been talking with PACs on the North Shore about opportunities related to the reopening of Parkcrest elementary next year.

These conversations have been productive and have given the board a good understanding

of parent concerns and a multitude of potential solutions to investigate.

Principals work collaboratively with PACs to build school community, to determine priorities and to support students.

PACs are involved with identifying areas of focus for school learning plans, which then are reflected in district learning plans. School and district learning plans influence professional development sessions across schools and the district.

PACs are excellent resources for parents who have questions about their student’s school, where to find information and how to access assistance in navi-

email: editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

gating the school system.

PACs often hold information sessions for parents on important parent-identified issues. An example includes the recent parent involvement strategies presentation from the SD73 Indigenous Family Voices for Education Group.

The BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils regularly meets with the Minister of Education and Childcare and other ministry officials to present parent issues. The Confederation has a multitude of valuable resources available to parents on its website.

So, when you see the notice for a PAC meeting, please attend

knowing you have the potential to influence decisions not only at the school, but also at the board table. When you see opportunities for community engagement on board decisions, consider signing up to share your questions and ideas.

Parent advisory councils aren’t just a power in our schools, they’re a super power for our district.

Kathleen Karpuk is a School District 73 board of education trustee. Karpuk can be contacted by email at kkarpuk@sd73.bc.ca.

SD73 columns appear monthly in KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR OPINION

RUN FA PROGRAM, EVEN AT A DEFICIT

Editor:

I am among those who signed a petition calling on Thompson Rivers University to retain

I believe TRU has neglected the fine arts program and has purposely not marketed it as effectively as it has other programs.

That is why enrolment is down.

Sure, it doesn’t make the university as much money as does nursing or law or business and that’s the fundamental reason TRU wants to cut it.

I also believe that university has a responsibility to the community to run some programming that the community considers integral, even at a deficit.

TRU extracts considerable resources from the citizens of Kamloops. It’s the taxpayer that will be paying for that overpass for students isn’t it?

DEER

TRU has been caught competing with local business on more than one occasion.

It seeks significant financial

contributions from local benefactors and local philanthropists towards naming rights, student scholarships and endowments.

It has headhunted employees by recruiting them directly from the small businesses who provide services to the university

Many say Thompson Rivers University eats its own. So, when is it going to be held accountable?

When will the community say enough is enough?

Peter Cameron-Inglis Kamloops

Kamloops This Week is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please email  editor@kamloopsthisweek.com or call 250-374-7467

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HELLO,

A mother introduces her child to some deer on McArthur Island, unaware of another animal watching them. ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

TO THE EDITOR

CITY IS MORE THAN SPORTS

Editor:

We are spending close to $1 million to host the Memorial Cup tournament, plus another $100,000 on a temporary platform for an event that lasts 10 days and nobody bats an eye. However, the mere mention of a performing-arts centre, a permanent facility that will bring business to Kamloops all year round, causes people to have an absolute hissy fit. It seems that if it’s not sports-related, it doesn’t count. In order to be a well-rounded community, we need all types of facilities.

Leanne Knowles, Kamloops

BIKE LANE WILL IMPACT SENIORS

Editor: I live in a building for seniors downtown at Victoria Street and Sixth Avenue.

The city is building a bike path down Sixth Avenue that will go right in front of our building.

I am dumbfounded that the city would agree to this location. Many seniors get picked up and dropped off in front of our building and cannot walk far.

With this new bike path, I am wondering where the residents

will have to walk to get their ride or catch their taxi.

I find this decision ridiculous and believe someone didn’t do their homework.

Carolyn Tytor Kamloops

KUDOS TO CARE IN AN EMERGENCY

Editor: We had an incident where my husband needed an ambulance and spent six hours waiting in the emergency room at Royal Inland Hospital.

SLOW DOWN ON CITY STREETS

Editor:

Valleyview Drive, particularly across from Ralph Bell elementary, near where we have lived for 36 years, has seen an incredible increase in traffic.

With that, is an increase in speed both during school hours and when classes are not in session.

Valleyview Drive has become a safety issue for pedestrians, cyclists and students.

It is time for the City of Kamloops traffic department to implement proper safety measures to address this growing issue.

Digital speed signs as at work coming off the Halston Bridge would be a start.

Dale Mortimer Kamloops

The care from the very beginning until he was discharged was phenomenal.

He was treated with great care, empathy and dignity.

Thanks to paramedics,

firefighters and emergency room staff.

You’re the best and we are so fortunate to have you.

Lea Thompson, Kamloops

LET’S LOVE ONE ANOTHER

Editor:

I saw a new side of Kamloops on April 29 and not one with which I am happy.

I was sitting at the corner of Singh Street and Tranquille Road in Brocklehurst, waiting to watch the Vaisakhi parade.

I was carrying on a conversation with the traffic control person on duty. The lanes and direction of traffic were well laid out with blockades and traffic cones.

I couldn’t believe the amount of danger and abuse that was hurled at her while she was trying to do her job. She was actually hit by a blue truck as she was trying to explain to the driver that he wasn’t allowed to go in that direction.

Thankfully, no injuries occurred. He then swore at her and ignored her direction.

Similar disrespect continued

for the two hours I was there. I heard slurs directed at the parade and at the people celebrating.

I was appalled at the disregard shown. The parade was a very joyful expression of people celebrating their religion. This is Canada. We are supposed to be welcoming to others and their customs.

No one seems to mind when we close streets on the North Shore for Boogie the Bridge or when we stop traffic downtown for the Christmas parade. How about we all learn to love one another regardless of race, colour or creed?

Let’s smile when we meet and say “please” and “thank you.” It would be a much nicer world if we did this.

Sylvia Newcombe Kamloops

LOCAL NEWS

House fire confirmed to have been human-caused

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Fire Rescue has confirmed that the fire that gutted a home in the 300-block of Gleneagles Drive in Upper Sahali on April 27 was ignited outside the house and was caused by human activity.

Firefighters managed to stop flames from the two-alarm house fire from spreading to neighbouring homes, but the house sustained significant damage, with most of the roof gone.

Two residents have been displaced.

Dean Olstad, KFR’s chief fire prevention officer, told KTW the blaze remains under investigation, but noted it appears to have started on a walking path between the home and the Orion Heights apartments, in a grassy area just below a row of cedars

bordering the house.

The fire is considered suspicious, but it is unclear whether it was deliberately set, according to Olstad.

He said investigators have found “a couple of things” at the scene that may have started the fire.

“I can’t say for sure if it was a cigarette or other means of starting the fire,” Olstad said. “I’m not saying someone intentionally did it, but somebody did something.”

He said the fire department is investigating, along with Kamloops RCMP and the BC Wildfire Service, the latter of which is better suited to investigate grass and brushfires, whereas Kamloops Fire Rescue is more suited to probing structure fires.

The fire spread about 10 feet to the row of cedars, then to the attic of the home, Olstad said.

He said video camera footage is being examined

as part of the investigation to determine whether any suspects can be spotted and the origin of the blaze confirmed.

With the blaze aided by the cedar hedges, Kamloops Fire Rescue is urging homeowners to reconsider having such shrubbery on properties and suggests residents remove them.

The fire department said the natural resin in cedar hedges burns hot and fast once ignited, leading to rapid spread of flames.

Meanwhile, fire investigators are probing two other blazes that were ignited on April 28, both of which were doused.

One was at the Kamloops RCMP detachment downtown at Battle Street and Sixth Avenue, believed to have been a small electrical fire, while the other was in Cooney Bay at Kamloops Lake.

BUT WHETHER IT WAS STARTED DELIBERATELY IS NOT YET KNOWN AND IS PART OF PROBE

This house in the 300-block of Gleneagles Drive in Upper Sahali was severely damaged by fire on Thursday, April 27. The fire was ignited from the outside, with a row of cedar hedges (the charred remains of which are seen in the photo) aiding the flames as they climbed the shrubbery and entered the house via the attic. There were no injuries suffered by humans, though two cats were rescued and a dog was reported missing after firefighters finished dousing the blaze.

MICHAEL POTESTIO/KTW

TRU says final decision on fine arts program yet to be determined

Despite the dean of arts confirming to KTW that the bachelor of fine arts in visual arts at Thompson Rivers University will be phased out, the university has released a statement that says a final decision on the fate of the program has not yet been made.

“Recent stories in our local media have given the perception that decisions about the future of these programs have already been made,” TRU provost and vicepresident academic Gillian Balfour said in the statement. “That is not the case. The fact is, we are about to engage a process fully set out by TRU’s policy regarding program reductions and eliminations.”

However, dean of arts Rick McCutcheon told KTW that the bachelor of fine arts in visual arts, which includes visual arts courses, is being cut because of consistently low enrolment and financial pressures, citing higher costs than other disciplines.

In addition, an online petition seeking to save the bachelor of fine arts in visual arts — a petition created by TRU faculty of arts associate professor Darlene Kalynka — also references elimination.

A statement on the petition’s website notes “Visual Arts faculty were informed Thursday April 20th of the decision to cancel the BFA, Visual Arts Programs, with enrollment stopped imme-

diately and a three-year window during which current students may complete their program of study.”

News of the apparent pending demise of the bachelor of fine arts in visual arts at TRU has resulted in more than 2,500 names on the online petition, letters to the editor of KTW opposing the move and much discussion on social media sites.

TRU’s statement of April 28 refutes claims that a decision has been made to kill the bachelor of fine arts in visual arts, explaining fine arts programs are being considered for elimination or reduction and that a letter will be sent by the university executive to the faculty of arts.

“The letter will set out the rationale for this consideration and invite members of the school to comment,” Balfour said in the university’s statement.

“Those comments will be reviewed before the issue moves forward. TRU’s governing bodies will be fully involved in the process. The Board of Governors will make final decisions after seeking the advice of Senate, which will seek input from both internal and external stakeholders,” Balfour said.

“The initial question of the future of fine arts education at TRU emerged in a way that suggested that decisions have already been made. That should not have happened, and I want to make it

clear that TRU’s senior leadership has always intended to follow the process set out by the policy.”

In the statement, Balfour said she understands that it is upsetting for many people that such a step is even being considered.

“The arts are an important part of our culture, both on campus and in the broader community,” Balfour said. “We appreciate the impact our graduates have had — and will continue to have — on arts and culture in Kamloops and elsewhere. We are proud of this legacy.”

However, Balfour added, TRU must look hard at the future of the bachelor of fine arts in visual arts and similar programs to determine if they are sustainable.

“At the same time, there is growing demand from students for other programs,” Balfour said, noting weighing the value of fine arts education against economic reality is neither pleasant nor easy, but is necessary.

“The provincial government — the primary funder of education in B.C. — has given institutions a strong mandate to offer programs that provide students with immediate employment opportunities.”

Balfour added: “What is most important to know now is that this decision will only be made following consultation with our community and in compliance with TRU’s policy.”

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Coming to rescue of victim of attack

CHRISTOPHER FOULDS KTW EDITOR editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

The dogged work of a Good Samaritan couple helped lead to the arrest of a man after a woman was assaulted in the parking lot of the Fortune Shopping Centre in North Kamloops on Monday, May 1.

Wayne Burgher said he and wife Tammy were leaving the Safeway store at about 1 p.m. when they heard a man in the parking lot yelling loudly. The couple then heard a woman screaming and saw an altercation.

“I saw him actually go up to her between the cars and, all of a sudden, he was assaulting her,” Burgher said. “He hit her and kicked her and slammed her face in the ground.”

Burgher said he and his wife rushed over and he yelled at the man, to get his attention, before stepping between the two to check on the woman, who he said appeared to be in her late 50s or early 60s.

As his wife called 911 and tended to the victim, Burgher said he followed the suspect as the man walked across the parking lot. He said his intent was to ensure the attacker, who appeared to be in his 30s, did not get away before police arrived.

The 50-year-old Burgher, who has a shoulder injury and can barely lift his left arm, said he was

trying to de-escalate the situation as the man threatened him.

“I don’t believe in violence,” Burgher said. “Absolutely not. Violence on violence just doesn’t work. I asked him to stop and he was making all kinds of excuses for why he did this. He said she assaulted him. He was trying to explain away his actions. I don’t think so. I saw what he did.”

Burgher added that the assault was captured on video by his wife, video he said the police have. Burgher said he told the man to wait for police to arrive and talk to them.

Burgher said the man then entered a cannabis store, made a purchase and came back outside.

“He got right in my face,” Burgher said. “My thing was, if I can keep an eye on him, he is not going to get away. He was quite riled up. He threatened another woman because she was getting quite verbal with him. He was going to hit her and I stepped in between them. I stepped between them, trying to calm things down. I knew he wasn’t going to stop and I didn’t want anybody else to get hurt.”

Eventually, Mounties arrived and the man was arrested near the Bank of Montreal, where Burgher gave officers his statement.

Cpl. Crystal Evelyn told KTW a man was arrested in the parking lot following an assault call at 1:10 p.m.

“According to the report, a man assaulted a woman in a parking lot,” Evelyn said. “The investigation is ongoing. A man was arrested and released with conditions; charge recommendations are anticipated as part of the assessment and approval process.”

He noted another woman told him she was mugged in the Fortune Shopping Centre parking lot last week, with the purse being stolen.

“And I’m thinking we all stand up as citizens and handle these people. Follow them safely, make them feel uncomfortable. Hey, you screwed up. You’re not gonna get away with this. We’re gonna call the police. They’re gonna be here. So we make a big stink without resorting to punching and getting into a physical altercation. We have got to take our community back. We need to get our community back. We need safety back.”

Burgher added that staff at Safeway deserve praise for acting fast and helping the victim until police and paramedics arrived.

The victim of the assault posted a message on Facebook, thanking those who helped her.

She said she suffered injuries to her knee and arm and said her attacker also spit in her face. She said she believes the assault stemmed from the fact her attacker was following her in the 30 km/h construction zone on nearby Fortune Drive and was irritated that she was adhering to the speed limit.

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KTW is looking for warehouse space for distribution

We need approximately 1,500 sq ft of flat, dry space one night a week to receive a 53’ trailer, offload skid cages of newspapers and transfer loads to our local drivers in smaller delivery vehicles. We typically receive between 16 and 18 skids

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

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

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

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

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

Crown drops retrial of man convicted of murder

Crown prosecutors have stayed murder charges against a Merritt man who spent 26 years in prison rather than pursue a new trial due to inconclusive and insufficient forensic evidence.

250-574-1001

Sutton-Hymark Realty

In 1995, Gerald Bernard Klassen was found guilty of first-degree murder by a B.C. Supreme Court jury in connection with the 1993 slaying of Julie McLeod, 21. Klassen received the mandatory sentence of life in prison with no parole eligibility for 25 years. He appealed his conviction,

but the appeals were rejected.

In 2017, the University of B.C.’s Innocence Project, which handles claims of wrongful conviction, applied to have Klassen’s conviction reviewed by the federal Justice Department, an application that focused on new forensic reports that cast

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doubt on the findings of the pathologist who testified at trial.

In 2020, a B.C. Supreme Court justice ordered that Klassen, then 60 years old, be released on bail pending the review. In 2022, federal Justice Minister David Lametti concluded that a miscarriage of justice likely occurred and ordered a new trial for Klassen.

B.C. Prosecution Service (BCPS) spokesperson Daniel McLaughlin told KTW the Crown issued a stay of proceedings on April 28, bringing the criminal proceedings to a close.

McLaughlin said the Crown decided against a retrial as three new pathologist reports examining the original evidence and Klassen’s file supported the conclusion the forensic evidence at trial must now be regarded as inconclusive and, therefore, insufficient to

support a conviction.

He said the BCPS in the past year reviewed the file materials in light of the new forensic opinions obtained between 2019 and 2020.

“That review is now complete and BCPS has concluded that the charge against Mr. Klassen no longer meets the standards required pursuant to Crown policy to proceed with a prosecution,” McLaughlin said.

In opting to stay a charge, the Crown must consider whether there is public interest in a prosecution and if there is a substantial likelihood of conviction, which includes considering what material evidence is likely to be admissible and available at a trial.

Tamara Levy, co-founder of the Innocence Project, had previously said she felt a retrial would be “highly unlikely.”

“He’s already spent 26 years in prison. There is no

longer a substantial likelihood of conviction with the new evidence and it just doesn’t seem in the public interest,” she told the Vancouver Sun in 2022.

During Klassen’s trial, court heard McLeod was last seen alive in Klassen’s vehicle on the evening of Dec. 15, 1993, when the pair obtained beer from a clandestine supplier.

The Crown’s theory was that after they drove to the Nicola Lake recreation area near Merritt in Klassen’s vehicle, he sexually assaulted and murdered her.

Klassen testified they had been drinking and had consensual sex before engaging in a confrontation. He said he pushed McLeod and she fell to the ground and hit her head, adding he left her and drove home.

Klassen denied committing murder, but the jury rejected his evidence.

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

LOCAL NEWS

BATTLE OF THE BEST IS IN THE BOOKS

Bert Edwards science and technology school students Oliver Pettigrew (left), Ryland Wilson and Henley Wood competed in the 36th annual Battle of the Books district championship for grades 3/4 on April 27 at the Henry Grube Education Centre. The grade 3/4 battle ended in a three-way tie (22 points each) between Raleigh, Bert Edwards Pinantan Lake. Raleigh won in a tiebreaker. The Grade 5 battle also ended in a tie (20 points each), with Arthur Stevenson beating Juniper Ridge in a tiebreaker. In the grades 6 /7 contest, Pinantan Lake took the win with the one-student team of Travis Harder amassing 25 points. See more photos online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

COMMUNITY

HEALTH PANEL

Dr. Rani Srivastava RN, PhD, FCAN: Dean of Nursing TRU Patient centered care and cultural competence

Julie Ford BSc (Pharmacy), MBA: Pharmacist Owner/Operator Pharmasave Aberdeen

Date: Wednesday, May 3

Time: Doors open at 6:30pm Panel 7:00pm-9:00pm

Location: Mountain Room, TRU (Campus Activity Centre)

Goddard RNc: Outreach nurse, Remote Nursing, Doctors without Borders

7. Connie Jasper: Member of Xeni Gwet'in community Director of Health for the Tsilqot'in National Government

5.

6.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Fired admin sues TRU, president

UNIVERSITY, BRETT FAIRBAIRN DENY ALLEGATIONS IN RESPONSE TO

A senior administrator who was a subject of an investigation into harassment complaints and later fired from Thompson Rivers University has filed a lawsuit against the school and against TRU president Brett Fairbairn.

Larry Phillips is suing the university and Fairbairn for breach of contract, violation of the Workers’ Compensation Act, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence and breach of privacy.

The lawsuit, filed on April 26 in B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver, is seeking general, special, aggravated, punitive and/or exemplary damages, along with $49,500 in salary continuance, $19,000 on connection with the refusal of a professional development allowance and $3,700 for expenses Phillips incurred during the investigation process.

TRU and Fairbairn filed a response two days later, on April 28, denying Phillips’ allegations and offering an explanation for why Phillips was fired.

In February 2021, a letter from a number of unnamed current and former university employees was sent to the TRU board governors, alleging acts of misogyny, racism and bullying on the part of Phillips, then the university’s associate vice-president of people and culture, and TRU vice-president of finance and administration Matt Milovick.

In January of this year, the university released a redacted copy

of the investigation report, which found that none of the 22 allegations brought against Milovick could be substantiated, while 10 of the 33 allegations brought against Phillips were substantiated.

Seven of those substantiated allegations centred around inappropriate comments amounting to sexual harassment against women in the workplace or in social settings. One other allegation was deemed harassment targeting a particular age group, another involved a comment derogatory to Indigenous people and another was personal harassment.

When the report was released, Phillips was no longer a TRU employee, having been fired by Fairbairn 13 months earlier, in December 2021. Fairbairn said at a public university senate meeting that Phillips’ termination was unrelated to the investigation.

In February of this year, Milovick filed a lawsuit against the complainants, alleging “malicious defamation” in connection with their decision to go to the media with their complaints, rather than adhere to a confidential investigation process.

In Phillips’ lawsuit against the university and Fairbairn, Phillips said the allegations in the complaint were “deeply shocking” to him and that he was “advised to keep the anonymous complaint and all matters and process associated with it strictly confidential.

However, Phillips notes in the lawsuit, the contents of the complaint soon became known across

the campus and, eventually, were reported on in the media.

“TRU took no effective steps to quell the rumours and allegations circulating on campus and took no action in response to the Anonymous Complainants’ dissemination of the allegations in the Anonymous Complaint,” his lawsuit states.

Once the media reported on the situation, Phillips said, Fairbairn directed Phillips to report directly to him.

“For the next month, Mr. Phillips and President Fairbairn met weekly to review the status of the Investigation process,” the lawsuit states. “In these meetings, President Fairbairn assured Mr. Phillips that he had his support and that he would be treated fairly in the Investigation and within TRU.”

As a result of the media coverage, Phillips said many people in Kamloops shunned him and many of his friends and acquaintances disassociated themselves from him. He said he was vilified on campus, noting his staff in the human resources department were harassed and bullied by others in the TRU community due to their refusal to speak against Phillips or as a result of being seen with him.

“Mr. Phillips repeatedly asked senior leadership at TRU and, in particular, the President to take steps to quell the rumours, disinformation and harassment on campus,” the lawsuit states.

“However, no effective action

SUIT

was taken. Instead, President Fairbairn invited all members of the campus to come forward with their own stories of conduct or issues similar to that of which Mr. Phillips was accused in the Anonymous Complaint, thus implying that there must be more allegations which had not yet been articulated. The President also discussed the Anonymous Complaints and the Investigation in staff meetings, inviting other staff members to comment on the situation and the allegations.”

In the lawsuit, Phillips states he raised concerns with Fairbairn and other executive members, including in-house legal counsel, about harassment and bullying he was subject to by former TRU provost Christine Bovis-Cnossen, from 2019 until her resignation in June 2021. “

These concerns about Provost’s treatment of Mr. Phillips and others were acknowledged as valid by President Fairbairn and other senior leaders at TRU, but the President refused to address them or to investigate the bullying and harassment concerns,” the lawsuit states.

In discussing his firing, Phillips alleges his termination “was clearly due to Mr. Phillips raising concerns about the President’s conduct in response to the Anonymous Complaint and the media stories, and Mr. Phillips expressing the view that this constituted harassment and bullying.”

See TRU EXPLAINS A17

LOCAL NEWS

TRU explains firing

Phillips said he had a 35-minute telephone discussion with Fairbairn on Dec. 14, 2021, during which Phillips expressed his concerns about the manner in which TRU had handled the anonymous complaints to date, recent events on campus and the “very serious” harmful effects this was having on his mental health and well-being.

“Mr. Phillips asked President Fairbairn to take action to address these matters,” the lawsuit states. “President Fairbairn replied that he would not do so, because that ‘would just make people more upset.’”

Phillips added that Fairbairn disagreed with his assessment that failure to take any action to prevent or respond to the abuse Phillips was experiencing on campus, as well as the president’s actions in discussing the allegations with managers, senior TRU leaders and Indigenous leaders while the investigation was in process, were inappropriate and constituted bullying and harassment of Phillips.

Two days later, on Dec. 16, 2021, Phillips said he was fired by Fairbairn without cause, with no explanation and without notice, with the president telling Phillips the termination had nothing to do with the anonymous complaints or the investigation.

In the response to the lawsuit, the university and Fairbairn denied Phillips’ various allegations .

They said Phillips never said he was the victim of bullying; rather, “Phillips described some other person as a ‘bully.’”

As for why Phillips was fired, TRU and Fairbairn said it had to do with the fact “Fairbairn continued to harbour doubts about whether Phillips could successfully transition to leading the Human Resources department on the basis of TRU’s values.”

The culminating event that led to Phillips’

firing, the response the lawsuit states, was a complaint against Phillips from a new employee in Phillips’ people and culture department.

While an investigation did not substantiate the conduct alleged against Phillips, “the report referenced responses by Phillips that reflected on Phillips’ approach to matters of inclusivity, diversity and equity with respect to marginalized racial and ethnic groups, Indigenous people and women.”

The response to the lawsuit states that “Fairbairn came to the view that Phillips’ comments reflected a superficiality and naiveté in his understanding of issues that are fundamental to his role ... at this time, Fairbairn was of the view that the sophistication lacking in Phillips’ perspective was essential for a leader of a People and Culture department within a university.”

Fairbairn also noted he had “observed two concerning aspects” about Phillips’ conduct, including that he had “an odd intensity in his manner such that he seemed wound tightly in every meeting” and that Phillips “frequently spoke in disrespectful ways about others who were not present.”

None of the allegations in the lawsuit, nor statements in the response to the lawsuit, have been proven.

From A16

Larry Phillips is the former associate vicepresident of people and culture at TRU.

Chamber

Musicians Bach in the groove

LESLIE HALL

The Chamber Musicians of Kamloops’ performance of Partners in Crime on Saturday, April 29, at Kamloops United involved a gay old time and some darn good music.

The audience was drawn into the life of the Bach family, their acquaintances and 18th-century events.

Curtis Howell portrayed the deservedly famous Bach son, Carl Philipp Emanuel, of the more famous Johann Sebastian. Anika Howell assumed the role of his daughter, Anna Katarine Philippa, while Cvetozar Vutev took on the role of Leopold Mozart, Wolfgang’s father and friend to Johann Christian, the youngest Bach son.

The music chosen exemplified the brilliance of the era. Our presentday musicians gave it their all: Curtis Howell on his wonder instrument showed how beautifully the harpsichord and violin could communicate, Anika Howell’s well-trained voice soared over the audience and Vutev led the pace throughout.

Quite notable was the change in musical expression over the period from Telemann (godfather of Carl Philipp Emanuel) to Johann Sebastian Bach. The latter’s music is well ahead of its time‚ jazzy with catchy rhythms.

As to events of the time. In 1717, Bach senior was jailed for a month over a labour dispute with his employer. In 1765, Johann Christian successfully fought for copyright legislation to apply to music. And Leopold made sure other musicians got to meet his talented son.

There is one concert left in the season, a May 27 event at Kamloops United Church featuring a trombone quartet. Tickets are available online at eventbrite.ca.

VISIONS OF VAISAKHI

The annual Vaisakhi celebration was held on Saturday, April 29. Organized by the Kamloops Sikh Cultural Society, a large and diverse crowd attended the event at the Sikh Cultural Society Gurudwara on Cambridge Avenue in Brocklehurst. Vaisakhi began with a flag ceremony, in which the holy flag — known as Nishan Sahib — was taken down and replaced with a new flag, with the flag pole being washed in milk and yogurt, then in water, to symbolize cleanliness and purity. Vaisakhi attracted the older and younger alike, including Kamloops Blazer fans like nine-yearold Kaden Bratch (below right).

ALLEN DOUGLAS PHOTOS/KTW

COMMUNITY

Bike rack mapping project underway

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

A project geared toward identifying, photographing and improving access to bike racks in downtown Kamloops is underway.

The Kamloops Cycling Coalition (KCC) is collaborating with the City of Kamloops to create a user-friendly map of bicycle racks to improve active transportation in the community.

“We’re only in the initial concept stages,” KCC spokesperson Deb Alore said, noting that the two groups meet regularly to discuss issues and priorities.

“We’re just starting to discuss how to put it together and it’s very early on in the project,” she said.

City staff recently completed an audit of the existing bike racks in the downtown core, so that is where the KCC will begin its data collection to explore where the information can be hosted.

The KCC is optimistic that if the project is successful and the community is willing to partici-

pate in the initiative, other areas in the city could benefit from the project in the future.

“The reason we’re starting with downtown is because it’s a significant hub for people to be dining and meeting and going to the park,” Alore said.

“The city has already done the audit, so it’s an obvious starting point for us, but if this proves to be a useful tool and it starts to

support active transportation, we would obviously want to expand it to North Shore and Sahali as long as it’s needed.”

Alore said she is hopeful that, over time, some of the existing bike racks may be upgraded to include security enhancements.

In the meantime, Alore encourages people to participate in bike valet programs this summer, purchase high-quality bike

Those wishing to help map bike racks in the city can contact the Kamloops Cycling Coalition by email at kamloopscycling coalition@gmail.com.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

locks, register bikes with Bike Index or Garage 529 and join the Facebook group for Kamloops Stolen Bikes to create awareness in the community.

“We can’t let bike thieves control everything,” Alore said.

“As soon as we give up and throw our hands up on the issue, they win — and I don’t want that to happen. If anybody likes this idea and wants to assist, if they want to take some reasonable quality photos of bike racks in the city with an address or GPS coordinates, that would be helpful.”

Those wishing to help can contact the KCC by email at kamloops cyclingcoalition@gmail.com.

• Turn to page B1 for more Community stories, including articles in two plays that will hit the stage soon.

By DUNCAN

MACMILLAN With JONNY DONAHOE

WEEKEND WALKABOUT

There was plenty to do in Kamloops this past weekend for KTW photographer Allen Douglas to capture with his lens. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A young girl hopes to win a stuffed animal at the midway games at West Coast Amusements at Aberdeen Mall. The ferris wheel is a favourite ride for young and old alike. Emily Robinson shows her nine-month-old son Aari a stuffed animal at the Heritage House Craft sale. Firsttime players line up to try their hand at learning lawnbowling. Matt Stodola (left) releases his shot as Kristina Lidster looks on during the Free Lawn Bowling Day at the Riverside Lawn Bowling Club in Riverside Park. Volunteer Tom Stone adds more books to a depleted mystery novel section at Barb’s Used Books and Music Sale at 444 Seymour St.

SPORTS

kamloopsthisweek.com

| 778-471-7536

SERIES CONTINUES

Caedan Bankier of the Kamloops Blazers slips the puck past Seattle Thunderbirds’ goaltender Thomas Milic in November at Sandman Centre. The Blazers and T-Birds will square off in Game 4 of the WHL Western Conference final on Thursday, a 7 p.m. start at Sandman Centre. Seattle was up 2-0 in the series heading into Game 3, which took place on Tuesday after KTW’s press deadline.

Find the game story online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Tij Iginla will be ‘running things’

Tij Iginla offered a toothy grin, much like his father’s, when asked how it feels to be a spectator during the WHL playoffs.

“It’s tough, but I mean I’ve just got to weather it for now and hope that my chance comes,” said Tij, the 16-year-old Seattle Thunderbirds’ forward who was selected ninth overall in the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft.

Matt O’Dette, head coach of the T-Birds, cleared things up — the kid’s chance is coming.

“He’ll be the guy running things here sooner than later,” O’Dette said. “This experience he’s getting now, just being around and getting to practise and play with all these high-end players every day, is huge for him.”

Seattle and the Kamloops

Blazers are playing in the WHL Western Conference final, a bestof-seven series that features 19 NHL-drafted players, 10 of them on the T-Birds’ roster.

Tij, who registered six goals and 18 points in 48 regular-season games, cracked the lineup for three first-round post-season tilts against the Kelowna Rockets, whom Seattle swept in four games.

He pulled up a seat beside KTW in the press box on April 30 at accesso Showare Center

in Kent, Wash., and watched alongside fellow scratches while the hometown T-Birds edged the Blazers 4-3 in overtime to take a 2-0 lead in the conference final.

Tij has not seen the ice since Round 1.

“It’s been really good getting to learn from these guys, getting to see guys like [Dylan] Guenther, [Brad] Lambert, so cool getting to be around guys who already have NHL experience. It’s really fun and I’ve definitely learned a lot so far,” said Tij, the 6-foot, 180-pound, left-shot forward from Lake Country.

Hockey Hall of Famer Jarome Iginla, Tij’s old man, is in a unique spot.

Jarome, both a Calgary Flames and Blazers’ legend, won Memorial Cups with the WHL club in 1994 and 1995.

Tom Gaglardi is majority owner of the Blazers, with Jarome and

fellow part-owners Darryl Sydor, Shane Doan and Mark Recchi rounding out the group.

“It’s definitely a little strange, but it’s fun,” Jarome told KTW on March 22 at Sandman Centre, where the Blazers edged the T-Birds 6-5 in a regular-season thriller.

“I’m obviously always pulling for my son, but it was nice to be back in here, a great atmosphere, and it brings back a lot of memories.

“It’ll be weird in the playoffs, but my guess is it might be one team wins one night, one team the other.”

Added Tij: “It’s definitely a bit of a split decision for him. I think he said if I’m playing, he’s cheering for the Thunderbirds and If I’m not, he’s going with Kamloops.”

Jarome Iginla is part-owner of the Kamloops Blazers. His son, Tij, plays for the Seattle Thunderbirds.

SPORTS

O’Dette: bright future for Iginla

The 2023 Memorial Cup-host Blazers were aiming to avoid a 3-0 hole on Tuesday in a game played after KTW’s press deadline.

Find the game story online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

“Compared to his dad, he’s got similar power-forward type characteristics, a guy that can put the puck in the back of net and also play with that edge and that sandpaper element,” O’Dette said of Tij.

“He’s got high-end skill. He’s got a heaviness and a grit to his game to go with it. High, high hockey IQ, as well, and strong work ethic.”

Comparisons are inevitable.

“It’s hard for me to say because I was pretty young when I was watching him back in the day, but he was a pretty offensive guy and I try to think of myself in a similar way, for sure,” Tij said.

WHL fans have time to compare and contrast.

“Tij is going to be a hell of a player for us for years to come,” O’Dette said. “He’s played some really good hockey for us this year. He’s playing behind a lot of depth up front, but the times he’s been in the lineup for us in the playoffs, he’s played real well.”

Game 4 of the Blazers-T-Birds series is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday at Sandman Centre.

Zellweger honoured

The Western Hockey League announced Kamloops Blazers’ defenceman Olen Zellweger has been named the McSweeney’s WHL Player of the Month for the month of April. The Anaheim Ducks’ prospect led all WHL skaters with 21 points, including nine

goals, in nine games in April, with highlights including tying the WHL playoffs single-game record for points by a defenceman, with seven (3G, 4A).

Zellweger recorded five or more shots on goal in eight of his nine outings, posted a plus-14 rating and had eight multi-

point games. He scored the series-clinching overtime gamewinning goal on April 6 to help the Blazers sweep their first-round series versus the Vancouver Giants.

His nine goals during the postseason are the most among WHL blueliners, while his 24 points place

him second among the league’s scoring leaders in the playoffs.

Blazers’ captain Logan Stankoven leads the league in playoff scoring, with 25 points, including 10 goals, in 10 games.

Zellweger leads all WHL skaters with 62 shots on goal in the postseason.

Kamloops Blazers’ defenceman Olen Zellweger (middle) is the WHL player of the month for April. ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Armstrong adds Maritimes hue to Brown

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Brown rink hospitality is in for a Maritimes test.

“I’m hoping Erin [Pincott] will let me sleep at her new house,” said Jenn Armstrong, the Rothesay, N.B., resident who will curl out of Kamloops during the 2023-2024 season.

Two-time Scotties Tournament of Hearts participant Team Brown began its search for a new member in March, when second Dezaray Hawes made it clear her move to Alberta from Peachland would mark the end of her tenure with skip Corryn Brown, third Pincott and lead Samantha Fisher.

The intertwined Canadian curling universe went to work.

Armstrong moved to Regina three years ago while in a relationship with Catlin Schneider, who then belonged to Team Dunstone, the Matt Dunstone-skipped quartet that operated out of Highland Curling Club in the Queen City.

Pincott, who is dating Winnipeger-Kamloopsian

Dunstone, became acquainted with Armstrong, whose stint throwing rocks out of Saskatchewan ran through the 2022-2023 campaign and allowed her to become familiar with Team Brown.

Armstrong moved back to New Brunswick this year and felt it proper to part ways with the Martensville, Sask.-based Nancy Martin rink, which already includes its maximum one import player, Krysten Karwacki.

“I told the girls, ‘Keep Krysten. I’ll go home and try to find another team to play with,’” Armstrong said.

Quick to find work, Armstrong was to join a New Brunswick team

featuring Andrea Kelly, who was promptly offered a job with Krista McCarville, the 10-time Scotties participant who won bronze for Northern Ontario at the national women’s curling championship in February in Kamloops.

“I told her when she [Andrea] called me, ’You can’t not take this opportunity. You have to do it,’” Armstrong said. “She decided to go play with them next season. That was right when Team Brown announced Dezaray was leaving.”

Armstrong whisked a text to Pincott that looked something like this: “Hey, this might be a long shot, it might be unrealistic, but I don’t have a team next year. I’m moving back to New Brunswick. Andrea is going to McCarville. If you guys are looking for a second, I’ve been playing second the last few years.”

The curling universe includes 10-time Brier participant Jim Cotter, the Kamloopsian who lives in Vernon, coaches Team Brown and toils with his daughter, Jaelyn, on the mixed doubles circuit.

“I became really good friends with them on the mixed doubles

tour,” Armstrong said. “The pieces fell together.”

A Zoom interview soon followed.

“They just plowed me with a bunch of questions,” Armstrong said.

Added Brown: “You weigh your options and figure out what is the best fit for our team, based on different circumstances — how they might fit in with the team, what their goals are and that sort of thing.”

Armstrong, a four-time national Scotties participant, has never reached the playoffs at the women’s Canadian championship, a distinction shared by Team Brown.

The Nancy Martin rink was dispatched by Robyn Silvernagle in the 2023 Saskatchewan provincial final, falling one victory shy of reaching the national Scotties in the Tournament Capital.

Team Brown missed out on competing for the 2023 Canadian championship on home ice when it was scuttled in the B.C. provincial final, a devastating extra-end loss to Clancy Grandy.

“We’re all on the same page,” Armstrong said. “We’re pretty driven that way.”

Team Brown gave the nod to Armstrong.

“Winning B.C. provincials is No. 1 — make it to the Scotties,” Armstrong said. “We’ve all been there. We’ve had success there. We want to get back and make playoffs and start building some points.

Armstrong, a chartered professional accountant who can work remotely, knows travelling across the country for tournaments and practices will be challenging.

The plan is to form a schedule that allows Armstrong to stay in Kamloops for chunks of about three weeks for tournaments and practise before she flies home to New Brunswick.

How much accommodation expenses are mitigated might be measured by the size of the imprint on the Dunstone-Pincott couch.

“We have the same, common goal,” Armstrong said. “We really want to win next year.”

2023 Memorial Cup presented by Kia promises to be an actionpacked tournament in Kamloops with many activities and events off-ice for fans of all ages.

Leading the way are two fantastic events!

JENN ARMSTRONG

LEAPING LUFO

KTW photographer Allen Douglas caught the beforeand-after shots of Esi Lufo’s goal on Sunday at Hillside Stadium. Lufo and Rivers FC took a 1-0 lead on the header, but fell 2-1 to Altitude FC of North Vancouver in the League1 B.C. women’s soccer match. The same teams squared off in men’s action on Sunday at Hillside, with Rivers snaring a 2-1 victory on the back of a brace from Finn Marshall. The matches were the first of the campaign for Rivers FC. Both of the Kamloops teams will square off against Whitecaps FC this weekend in Vancouver.

Redemption-seeking Snakes buoyed by new blood

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Rattlers’ president Mark Jurista is tickled to see his Thompson-Okanagan Senior Lacrosse League club turning a corner, with younger faces joining the squad to give the old boys a few shifts off.

“There were some years, ever since we started the team in 2008, where we really struggled and we kept the team alive, playing with 10 runners out of town in Kelowna,” said Jurista, the former team captain who has not played a minute this season, opting instead to help out with coaching duties on the bench. “It’s really good to have all the numbers and to give the older guys like myself opportunity to take on other roles. I can focus on maybe just one or two instead of four.”

Doug Clark is head coach of the Kamloops club, which has opposition in the four-team league this season from the Kelowna Raiders, Armstrong Shamrocks

and Vernon Tigers.

The Rattlers (3-1) have more than 30 players on the roster, including active and inactive players, and are chasing revenge on the Raiders, who vanquished Kamloops in the league final last year.

“They’re hungry for a bit of redemption,” Jurista said.

Kamloops earned a 15-6 victory over hometown Vernon on April 28.

Morgan Bloom

(3G), Tylor Seabrooke (1G), Mike Henry (3G), Brogan Lloyd (1G), Colton Boomer (2G), Drew Bannister (3G), Colton Mathias (1G) and Jonathan Tam (1G) scored for the Rattlers, who went with Ethan Milobar between the pipes.

The Raiders will play host to the Rattlers on Sunday, May 7, in Kelowna.

“It’s refreshing to see the young guys come out

and I think it was good last year,” said Jurista, whose Rattlers will play next at Memorial Arena on May 12, when Vernon comes to town for a 7:30 p.m. start.

“We had a group of younger, newer-addition guys that used to play with the [junior B Kamloops] Venom. They had a good time last year and the word kind of spread and more guys wanted to be part of the team this year.”

WOLFPACK CLEAN UP ON AWARDS NIGHT

The focus at the 2023 Kamloops Sports Council Awards on Saturday, April 29, was on the Thompson Rivers University men’s soccer team, which last November hosted and won the national men’s soccer title, the school’s first U Sports team championship.

The club was honoured with the Team of the Year Award, while team coach John Antulov was named Coach of the Year and goalie Jackson Gardner was named University Athlete of the Year.

Other Kamloops Sports Council Awards went to Sienna Angove of the Kamloops Classic Swimming club (Female Athlete of the Year), Logan Stankoven of the Kamloops Blazers (Male Athlete of the Year), World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships multi-medallist Karl Mey (Master Athlete of the

Year), Baseball Canada president and former Kamloops Minor Baseball Association president Chris Balison (Sports Person of the Year) and Kamloops Track and Field Club hammer thrower Ethan Katzberg (International Excellence Award).

And, as reported by KTW in March when the inductees were announced, the Kamloops Sports Council Awards night included the following people officially inducted into the Kamloops Hall of Fame: Doug Collins, Jessica Vliegenthart, Gary Reed and volunteers of the Kamloops International Baseball Tournament, which ran for 46 years, the last event being played in 2019.

The volunteers are Lyn Bylund, Gary Cameron, Pat Swaine, Donna Hagen, Fran Pope, John Braun, Dean Padar, Wayne Harper, Jan

Harper, Tom Blair, Linda Coutts, Ron Masson, Verna Desjardins and Diane Wells.

Collins was a broadcaster for CFJC in Kamloops for 51 years and was an organizer and volunteer on the local sports scene, including with minor baseball and high school football.

Vliegenthart, who was paralyzed from the waist down in 2004, excelled in wheelchair basketball, winning silver at the 2007 Pan Am Games, bronze at the 2010 World Championship, silver at the 2011 Pan Am games and placing sixth at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London.

Reed, a two-time Olympian middle-distance runner, won six national titles and competed in six world championships, winning a silver medal in 2007.

AJ Lockwood (left), seen here playing for the Kamloops Rattlers in 2018, is part of the team’s old guard, a group of players making way for the next generation of senior Snakes.

KTW FILE PHOTO

250-374-7467

Panhandling on the Emerald Coast of Florida

shackle fish shack, which attracts crowds to its wharf location.

Life is better at the beach — or so I am thinking as I look out on the swirling snow and frosty drifts of our Canadian winter.

I am dreaming of an escape to white, sugary sand beaches of Florida’s Emerald Coast.

Here, the communities of Panama City Beach, Pensacola, Destin and Fort Walton possess a unique, engaging character that is an attractive alternative to the bustle of Florida’s more wellknown centres.

Fishing, diving, snorkelling, golfing, dining and shopping are all on offer, but it is the famous beachfront, which these communities share. This stretch of sand is breathtakingly beautiful, it remains the region’s main attraction.

Dotted with windswept dunes, the area’s distinctive quartz sand is blindingly white and soft as flour. Brushing up against the sands are the clear emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, a welcome gulf breeze and the golden touch of the ever-present sun reflecting off the water.

Panama City Beach is situated where the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew Bay converge. I rise early to take in the sunrise across the beach from the end of its famous 460 metre pier. Locals too, are early risers, claiming their spots on the lengthy jetty, to sink a line.

At St. Andrews State Park we rent bikes and peddle amongst

the dunes, stopping occasionally to stroll beside Cyprus-tangled wetlands in search of alligators and snakes. I am thankful that the only creature we come across I can surely outrun, a turtle.

In the evening, we skirt the sand-spit park seaside aboard a sailboat on a peaceful sunset cruise. Bottlenose dolphins dance in our wake as we sail alongside the expansive beach. We watch an iridescent sun melt into an emerald-coloured sea, adding a splash of orange, reds and purples across low-hanging clouds.

Destin is nicknamed “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” where deep sea fishing is huge.

Just 16 kilometres from the

city’s scenic harbour, the catch offers everything from sailfish, marlin, shark and king mackerel.

The entire month of October is dedicated to the Destin fishing Rodeo, an annual tournament drawing anglers from around the world. This is a place of character and characters.

Bruce Cheve is the official weigh-master for the rodeo. Meet Bruce on the wharf on any given afternoon and he will regale you with fishing tales — like the time he spent a week out fishing in seas so rough that they put a permanent stagger in his gait, thus drawing the attention of the local police.

While in Destin, be sure to

visit the fascinating History and Fishing museum, which tells the story of its local fishing industry. More than 100 fish mounts on display, the variety of locally caught fish is substantial.

You can wander the bustling harbourside wharf, take a jet-ski out in the protected inner harbour, or join a yacht cruise to Crab Island.

With the Gulf of Mexico on its doorstep, it is not surprising the region has an abundance of seafood eateries, like Dewey Destin’s.

Owner Dewey Destin is the great, great, grandson of Leonard Destin who gave Destin its name. It is a popular ram-

It is located at the same pier where fishing boats used to unload their catch, now, a delectable seafood is unloaded on the diners as pelicans and gulls beg for handouts. Dewey once worked on the boats.

“Fishing was much more fun in the day,” admits Dewey.

“But the restaurant makes more money.”

Besides its inviting beach, Pensacola also offers over 460 years of rich history. Its beaches welcomed the first European settlers to the New World in 1559.

Downtown Pensacola is a thriving corridor rich with history, theatre, parks, coffee shops and fine dining options.

Keep your eyes focused overhead as well, the famous Blue Angels are situated here at the first ever U.S. Naval Air Station, and are often seen practicing their acrobatics in the sky.

On the western tip of Santa Rosa Island, the Gulf Islands National Seashore preserve offers beaches, camping, hiking trails and a massive pre-Civil War fortress, Fort Pickens. These brick battlements once housed Union troops and interned the renowned Apache leader Geronimo.

The thought of an escape to white, sandy beaches of Florida’s Emerald Coast is no longer a dream — instead, it has become a spectacular memory.

Travel Writers’ Tales is an independent newspaper column syndicate. For more, go online to travelwriterstales.com.

Photo: Waterton Lakes

JAMIE ROSS SPECIAL TO KTW travelwriterstales.com

For Canadian travellers living in the more northerly climes of North America, dreams of sunshine and white, sandy beaches become a reality when heading south to enjoy a visit to Florida’s Emerald Coast.

JAMIE ROSS PHOTO

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

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We

TO OUR LOLA!

Acacia, Jordan, Danika, Natasha, Jake, Ellie, Murphy, Maze & Chesney ❤

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

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Travelscooter IT'S GARAGE SALE TIME Call and ask us about our GARAGE SALE SPECIAL ONLY $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 MAJOR TREES FOR SALE Blue & Green Spr uce 18 + tall, 10 bottom branch spread 42" wire basket and bur laped $400-$700 Digging May 12 & 13th Visit now & pick them out Pay 1/2 down & balance upon p/up Nurser y @ McLure Low pr iced/wholesale Maples and other deciduous as well Call 250-672-9712 or 778220-4443 Ideal for feature trees, roadwayssounds & pr ivacy barr ier Pr ice negotiable

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ESTATE AUCTION (SMALL FARM) ON-SITE VIEWING 5729 BUTTERS RD, VERNON

FARM/GARDEN - Fordson Dexta Tractor w/Front End Loader, Implements, ATV - Trailer/Sprayer & Tank, Lawnmowers, Weed Eaters, Leaf Blower, Rototillers, Wheelbarrows, Fertilizer Water Tub, Timbers, Firewood, Wood Splitter, Yard & Garden Tools, Plant Pots/Boxes, Ladders, Patio Furniture, Fencing, Plastic Pipe, Plus More!!

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PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT

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What

Are Being Proposed? Council is considering amendments to maximum occupancies in all short-term night y renta properties, whether rezoned or hold ng a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) from two people per bedroom to:

● S ng e and Duplex Dwel ings

o Main Dwelling or Main Dwelling and Su te – 2 people/bedroom + 4 to a maximum of 16 people;

o Suite Only – 3 peop e/bedroom

● Condo/Townhouse Propert es

o 2 People per bedroom + 2

● Studio – 3 people/bedroom

In addit on to amendments to maximum occupancy imits, a condition to provide a garbage disposal plan w ll be considered

A l persons who believe that their interest in property may be affected by the proposed TUP cond tion changes shal be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the Publ c Hearing Additionally, they may make written submissions (via any of the below options) which must be received at our office prior to 4:00 p m on the 12nd day of May, 2023 The entire contents of all submissions will be made public and form a part of the public record on th s matter

A copy of the proposed permit condition changes and all supporting information can be inspected from 8:30 a m to 4:00 p m , Monday - Friday at our office until 4:00 p m the day of the Hear ng

No representations will be received by Council after the Public Hearing has been concluded

How do I get more information?

A copy of the proposed changes and all supporting information can be inspected from 8:30 a m to 4:00 p m , Monday - Friday at our office until 4:00 p m the day of the Hearing; or please contact us via any of the below options. P ease contact N cky Jonsson to receive Zoom access.

No representat ons w ll be received by Council after the Publ c Hearing has been concluded

Nicky Jonsson, Director of Corporate Services

Phone: 250-578-2020

Email: admin@sunpeaksmunicipality ca

Website: www sunpeaksmunicipality ca

A S S I S TA N T TO T H E C H I E F

Tsideldel First Nation is look ing to fill the position of Assistant to the Chief, who, under the direc tion of the Executive Administrative Suppor t Lead, will pr imar ily be responsible for administrative and cler ical ser vices relating to the Chief This position will be located at our Chilanko For ks, BC office. The successful incumbent will be responsible for ar ranging travel, to prepare, review, and/or edit var ious for ms of cor respondence for the Chief, and you may provide cler ical relief for the general office. Additionally, you are able to organize and wor k independently on several projec ts at one time under tight deadlines

The Assistant to the Chief must possess the following sk ills and abilities:

• Abilit y to deal with people sensitively, tac tfully, diplomatically, and professionally at all times

• Effec tive wr itten and ver bal communication

• Considerable k nowledge of general office procedures

• D emonstrated sk ill in minute tak ing and travel ar rangement while giving close attention to detail

• Have a proven track record of maintaining str ic t confidentialit y

• Organized and be able to independently

We may consider a hybr id wor k ar rangement

Wage R ange: $22 00 per hour

Duration and Hours: 35 Hours per week

Deadline: Until the position is filled

To apply for this oppor tunit y, qualified applicants should submit a cover letter and resumé to Sher r y Westgarde Hepper at the email address listed below : Sher r y Westgarde Hepper, Executive Administrative Suppor t Lead, Tsideldel First Nation Email: execassistant@tsideldel.org

Since this position is engaged primarily in ser ving the interests of Aboriginal people, Tsideldel First Nation shall give preference to Aboriginal people who possess the requisite sk ill sets and experience.

We sincerely appreciate all applicants for their application, however, only those selec ted for an inter view will be contac ted

MULTI MEDIA ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

Award-winning media company Kamloops This Week has an opening for an Advertising Sales Consultant for our suite of print and digital products The successful candidate will be a self-starter, highly organized and able to work in a fast-paced environment The candidate will lead KTW to great success in this dynamic position and have a strong drive for networking

The candidate will also work creatively with a diverse team to provide the appropriate marketing opportunities and solutions for our clients Marketing and/or advertising background is an asset, but not required

YOU HAVE:

• Strong understanding of goal-oriented sales

• Passion for digital marketing

• Passion to be creative

• Strong, genuine customer service skills

• Building strategic marketing campaigns

• Brand awareness

• Be able to adapt to different types of clients

• Passion to drive business and create long-term relationships

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU:

• Company benefits

• Professional print & digital training

• Competitive compensation based on previous experience

Interested applicants should send or email resume to: Liz Spivey, Sales Manager Kamloops This Week 1365-B Dalhousie Drive Kamloops B.C. V2C 5P6 liz@kamloopsthisweek.com

KTW is looking for warehouse space for distribution

We need approximately 1,500 sq ft of flat, dry space one night a week to receive a 53’ trailer, offload skid cages of newspapers and transfer loads to our local drivers in smaller delivery vehicles. We typically receive between 16 and 18 skids We have an onsite supervisor who co-ordinates the unloading and loading.

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

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

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

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

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

INTERESTED? CALL 250-374-0462

Robert Harry Henning: A Life Well-Lived

Robert Harry Henning, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 26, 2023 at Royal Inland Hospital.

Born on November 8, 1933, in Herbert, Saskatchewan, Harry was predeceased by his father John, mother Elsie, brother Wilfred, and nephew Wade Henning.

Harry is survived by his beloved wife of over 66 years, Dorothy (née Davis), his loving sons Randy, Brian (Karen), and Mark (Tracy), cherished grandchildren Teri, Kent (Mike), Sophia, and adored greatgrandchildren Isla and Sara.

Growing up in Prairie View, Saskatchewan, Harry spent the first 16 years of his life there before moving to Tilney, Saskatchewan for work. It was in Moose Jaw where he met his future bride Dorothy Davis, and they were married on November 3, 1956. Their family grew with the birth of their sons Randy and Brian, both born in Moose Jaw

In 1967, the family moved to Kamloops, where Harry began working for Stellar Plumbing and Heating. Shortly after, their youngest son Mark was born.

Harry's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own successful business, Twin River Plumbing and Heating in 1978. His sons and other family members, all became integral parts of the family business.

Harry was a man of many interests and talents. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, bowling, hunting, and travelling. As a skilled craftsman, he built all the family homes they lived in and took great pride in his woodworking and stained-glass creations.

Avid travellers, Harry and Dorothy took many memorable trips together, including a month-long stay in Portugal and numerous cruises, allowing them to explore various parts of the world. They also spent 15 years living in Yuma, Arizona during the winter months.

Harry's friendly nature and love for banter ensured he made friends wherever he went. He was an avid fan of western movies and books, and his presence brought joy to the staff and residents at Berwick Retirement Community, where he spent his final years.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr Kebarley, Dr Nichols, and the nurses and staff at the Royal Inland Hospital for their compassionate care.

Friends are invited to join the family for a gathering in the Schoening Tea Room, 513 Seymour Street on Saturday, May 13 from 12:30 to 2:30 pm

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Royal Inland Hospital in Harry's memory

Robert Harry Henning leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a close-knit family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Condolences may be expressed at:

www.schoeningfuneralserivce.com

Brad Armstrong

Brad Armstrong suddenly passed away on April 25, 2023 at the age of 49 at the Royal Inland Hospital surrounded by his loving family and amazing wife who never left his side. He is survived by his wife Krystal, children Hayleigh and Monty, parents Heather and John, sister Tracy (Justin), nephews Ben and Max, cousins David (Christa) and Dylan (Evgeniia), brother-in-law Ken (Matthew and Andrew), and many dear friends.

He was born on April 9, 1974, in Kamloops, BC and remained a resident his entire life. He always prided himself on being a “Westsyde boy”. Growing up, he loved playing hockey, being outdoors, and pulling pranks with his friends. Later, he raised his family and started his own metal roofing company Braddik Roofing and Sheet Metal which he owned and operated for almost 20 years. He always told his friends how much he loved his family, often expressing that he had “won the lottery”. In his spare time, he loved going hunting, fishing, spending time with his family, and going for walks around McArthur Island Park.

Anyone who knew Brad knows that he was generous and eager to help the community, his family, and friends in any way possible, from handing out sandwiches and water to the unhoused population to being a shoulder for people to cry on. He was also known for his special sense of humour, beautiful smile, and radiant energy that would light up any room he walked into. He impacted so many peoples’ lives and it is without a doubt that he will be deeply missed.

Brad’s family will host a celebration of life on Sunday, May 28th, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. The celebration will be held at the Grand Hall which is located on the second floor in the Campus Activity Centre at Thompson Rivers University (1055 University Drive, Kamloops). The family kindly requests you do not wear black.

We would like to sincerely thank all the staff in the emergency department and ICU at the RIH, in particular Dr Parry; nurses Corby, Mark, Alesha, Kayla, Corinne, Siyuan, and Kate; and social workers Ken and Celine for their compassion and support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Kamloops Brain Injury Association and/or registering to be an organ donor through BC Transplant.

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/8811?v2=true http://www.transplant.bc.ca/organ-donation/register-as-an-organ-donor

“Until we meet again, guy”.

Celebration of Life for Allan Newberry

A celebration of Life for Allan Newberry will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 1:00pm at The Barriere Agriplex at the rodeo grounds.

Refreshments to be served.

Celebration of Life for Jean Knox

A celebration of Jean Knox’s life will take place Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 11:00am at St. Paul’s Cathedral, reception to follow in the parish hall.

Celebration of Life for Ron and Pearl Wark

Our family invites you to join in celebrating the lives of Ron and Pearl Wark on Friday, May 12th, 2023 at 3 pm at Hal Rogers Kinsmen Centre in Albert McGowan Park, 2025 Summit Drive, Kamloops, BC. Please bring your joyful memories

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

Diana Marjorie Wilkinson (née Day)

July 15, 1937 - April 11, 2023

On April 11, 2023, at age 85, Diana Marjorie Wilkinson passed away in Kamloops at Royal Inland Hospital, the same place she was born July 15, 1937.

Diana was the 4th oldest in a family of eight children. She started working various jobs at the age of 16. Diana and Ron met on a blind date and were married on March 10, 1956. Together they raised three children: Rhonda (Ken), Darren (Cassandra) and April.

Diana was known as Mama to her two granddaughters, Chantel (Dylan) and Danica (Alison), as Great Mama to her two great grandchildren, Cayden and Declan.

Diana is predeceased by her parents Wes and Doris Day and four brothers Ronnie, Doug, Lawrie and Terry She is survived by her sister Gwen (Shuko) and brothers Mike and Glenn (Judy).

For many years, Ron and Diana operated the Bus Terminal on Lansdowne Street, which later became Greyhound. Diana was full of energy and life. Her many interests included making fabulous photo albums, Christmas baking (oh, those sausage rolls!), reading, pottery, fashion modeling and curling. Diana was also a charter member of the Kamloops P.E.O. Chapter A. T and club president from 1973 – 74.

Summers were spent at the Shuswap Lake with family and friends. In 1970, on her birthday, Ron gifted Diana a boat. To this day, beloved Royal Baby is still cruising the Shuswap. In 1987, Diana and Ron built a year-round home in Scotch Creek, where they lived full time until 2021. Diana loved swimming and for many years did so from Sorrento to Scotch Creek. Hobbies in retirement were creating awardwinning set décor with Chase Players and becoming an avid gardener Another favourite activity was “walking and talking” almost daily with her dear friend Aileen. In the winter months, Diana and Ron very much enjoyed their travels, particularly cruising to new locations.

Diana and Ron loved having their granddaughters every summer creating many memories of swimming, gardening, and make all the goodies in the kitchen (particularly cinnamon buns and Mama’s special pizza).

Last summer, with family support, Diana was still able to enjoy time at the lake despite failing health. In July, there was a celebration for her 85th birthday, Ron’s 90th birthday and their marriage of 66 years.

Diana’s life will be remembered by family this June in a private graveside at Hillside Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of her life.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

Rick Howie - Celebration of Life

When: Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 1:30 pm.

Where: Terrace Room in the Campus Activity Centre at Thompson Rivers University

Parking is free.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at kamloops@cypressfuneral.ca

Love’s greatest gift is remembrance.

Eleanor Wiersema

December 18, 1948 - April 16, 2023

Eleanor Wiersema passed away peacefully at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home in Kamloops, BC on the morning of Sunday, April 16, 2023. She is predeceased by husband; John Wiersema, parents; Tadeusz and Else Janischewski, brother; Ted Janischewski and sister; Rita Janischewski. She is survived by brothers; Ron (Rita) Janischewski and Vic Janischewski, son; Steven (Jackie) Wiersema, daughter; Beverly (Daryn) Pottinger, grandchildren; Madi Pottinger, Jeremy Pottinger, Aaron Gardiner, Ashley (Austin) Gardiner, Gabriella Wiersema and Gracie Wiersema, as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews who have always held a very special place in her heart.

Eleanor was born in Chilliwack, BC on December 18, 1948. She grew up on a farm in Greendale with her 3 brothers and younger sister who she always had to share a room with (which she hated). School wasn’t really mom’s thing, pretty understandable as she arrived only knowing how to speak German as it was all that was spoken at home, talk about a rough start! There was always lots to do in those days whether it was on the farm, in the kitchen or helping with her younger siblings. This prepared Eleanor for her ultimate role of wife and mother which began when she met a good looking red-head on the production lines of Fraser Vale Foods in Chilliwack. Eleanor married John Wiersema in November of 1970, gave birth to Steven in June of 1971 and Beverly in 1973 in Ashcroft, BC. They moved to Kamloops shortly after where they built a life and family together

Eleanor was a full-time wife and mother She relished being at home, canning and baking and tending to her beautiful yard and garden. Her garden in Westsyde was her happy place and she often rewarded herself with a float in the pool with an iced cold beer after a day of yard work. She enjoyed coffee with neighbours, bowling in a morning ladies league, Aquafit at the Westsyde Pool and always had a project or craft on the go. She was an avid Scrapbooker and more recently was making her own Greeting cards. A lot of her time was also spent babysitting when grandchildren entered the picture; her grandchildren were her pride and joy and she loved them “to the moon and back.” Eleanor was a big fan of Elvis and Figure Skating and some good dancing tunes. She also loved reading, jigsaw puzzles, and was a sucker for a good chick flick on the Women’s Network.

Eleanor ’s husband John was the love of her life, best friend and soul-mate. Losing him in 2011 was a devastating blow that she never recovered from. Smiles were forced, laughter was less often and joy was harder to find. She carried on for the sake of her children and grandchildren but life was just never the same. The shocking diagnosis of Metastatic Lung Cancer in March of 2023 was very hard to swallow but mom maintained an air of grace and dignity throughout her last couple of weeks on this earth. Our greatest comfort is that she is back in the arms of her beloved Johnny again.

A Celebration of life with graveside interment will take place on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Hillside Cemetery, 750 Notre Dame Dr., Kamloops, BC. Both the urns of Eleanor and John Wiersema will be laid to rest, together again as it was meant to be. A late lunch/early dinner will follow at Eleanor ’s home at 74-1030 Ricardo Rd., all are welcome to attend.

Donations gratefully accepted to Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice House, 72 Whiteshield Cres. S., Kamloops, BC, V2E 2S9.

Dorothy Ida McArthur 1935 - 2023

Dorothy Ida McArthur (née Bradley) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on April 27, 2023 at 87 years of age. Dorothy is pre-deceased by her husband William (Bud) McArthur in 1999.

Dorothy is survived by her children Tammy (Cody), Barry (Laura), Pam (Neil) and Shelley; and was blessed with 9 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Dorothy was born June 19, 1935 in Rosetown, Saskatchewan as the 4th of 7 children of Norman and Alizzy Bradley

Dorothy had a love for Christ that was evident in everything she did, from helping out at church or playing with her grandchildren she always had a bright smile and a warm kind disposition. You couldn’t help but feel happy and welcome in her presence. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who came to know her We love you Mom/Grandma and we rejoice knowing you are with the One you dedicated your life to serving.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Kamloops Alliance Church or the Alzheimer ’s Society

The Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, May 5, 2023 at the Kamloops Funeral Home, 285 Fortune Drive. Following the reception, Dorothy will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery, 750 Notre Dame Drive.

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

Aileen Oakley

Aileen Oakley passed away peacefully in her sleep in Ottawa at the age of 94. She is predeceased by her husband Arthur Oakley, the love of her life after 61 years of marriage. Her pride and joy were her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. She was an incredible mom to Gaye (Ray), Laurie (Bob), and Erin (Glenn). She was a loving and much adored Nana to Will, Kara (Edwin), Cassandra (Mike), Todd (Kendra), Raymond (Olga) and Chandra (Jesus), as well as a great grandmother (G.G.) to Ashton, Ethan, Vann, Emma, Jackson, Arthur, Annabelle, Morley, and Tula. She will be sadly missed by all her friends and family

Aileen met her soulmate Art, a proud member of the Canadian Forces, and together they raised their three daughters across Canada and Europe. Aileen and Art loved travelling across Canada, spending quality time with their daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, while exploring warmer climates. They had a shared love of meeting new people, and Aileen's warmth and kindness touched many Her passion for beautiful scenery, cute babies and adorable animals will be a treasured keepsake in her most prized possessions and photographs.

Family and friends are invited to the Hillside Cemetery at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 20, 2023 for prayers and burial and then to the Ukrainian Church on 8th Street, (North Shore), across from DQ for a celebration of life and a luncheon at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada are appreciated.

As you share the stories and the memories of how they lived their lives and how very much they meant, may you find comfort...

James Ginter

We would like to wish our dear friend, Jimmy Ginter, a fond farewell into the big coffee shop in the sky His positive, happy, friendly, outlook on life was infectious to all who were blessed to know him. He was legendary in the downtown core of Kamloops where he frequented the coffee shops and made many, many friends.

Jim was not a material guy, but would give you the shirt off his back even if he didn’t have an extra. He loved to read –mostly celebrity magazines and books on wrestlers, politicians, celebrities, and buxom blondes. His fave celebrity crushes were James Dean and Anna Nicole Smith.

He could talk your ear off and was well educated on many subjects. He loved the history of B.C. and the stories of those who built it. He would have many tales to recant about the good ole days and the colorful life he lived in Surrey, Whalley, Chase, and finally Kamloops.

He had a special place in the hearts of Sheila E, Chaplain James Giles, Leslie, Collum, and especially of the late Shannon Burrell; not to mention all his friends at Garden Manor as well as many of the people experiencing homelessness whom he thought of as family

He was laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery

SEE YA LATER KID

The following poem was written by Jim’s close friend, James

JIMMY

John “Brent” Brentnall Daykin

John “Brent” Brentnall Daykin, 72, joined his Lord in heaven on April 12, 2023. He was born July 16th, 1950, in New Westminster to Francis and Evelyn. Growing up he moved around a lot, until settling in Bridge Lake where he became a true cowboy with his late brother Ron. Later he moved to 100 Mile House and started a family before finally moving to Kamloops in 2007, where he touched the lives of many and was known as a loving and caring man. Since 2007 he worked at Home Hardware and was loved and appreciated by everyone he worked with.

He is predeceased by his mother Evelyn, father Francis, and brother Ron Brent is survived by his two sons Matt (Nicole) and Andrew (Aireal), as well as, his brother Stan (Carol), his sister Beth (Harold), and his many nieces and nephews.

In respect to Brent’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at kamloops@cypressfuneral.ca

Q. Can part of Murray go back to Scotland?

A. Some countries are more open to this than others. It’s best to check with the consulate if you’re not sure. I’ve heard from many people who have taken an urn or a keepsake to another country without incident. But I’d check to make sure.

A Vanished Friend

Around the corner I have a friend

flow of her hair

OH THAT SMILE AND TWINKLE IN YOUR EYE THIS OLD WORLDS MOST SPECIAL GUY

In this great city that has no end; Yet days go by, and weeks rush on, And before I know it a year has gone, And I never see my old friend’s face, For life is a swift and terrible race. He knows I like him just as well As in the days when I rang his bell, And he rang mine. We were younger then, And now we are busy, tired men, Tired of playing a foolish game, Tired with trying to make a name.

“Tomorrow, I will call on Jim, Just to show that I am thinking of him.”

But tomorrow comes and tomorrow goes, And the distance between us grows and grows, Around the corner, yet miles away

“Here’s a telegram, sir,” “Jim died today!”

And that’s what we get, and deserve in the end, Around the corner a vanished friend!

Celebratethe lives of loved ones with your stories, photographs and tributes

by Anders Lim

Leone Atkins

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Leone Atkins on April 22, 2023.

Leone was born in Vancouver, BC on March 7, 1935. The only child of Joseph Celona and Eleanor Graham.

Most of her early years were spent between the West and East coast of Canada.

She received her education at the Little Flower Academy in Vancouver, BC and graduated from St. Ann’s Academy in New Westminster, BC.

After graduation, she worked for a short time as an International Bank Teller, being fluent in 3 languages, before starting her training as a lab assistant. She then went on to work at St. Paul’s Hospital.

Over the next several years, Leone lived and worked in many areas of British Columbia. She loved each location for the experience she gained and the people she knew but eventually settled in Kamloops to raise her family

After returning to school as an adult, she began her career with youth. She loved her job and provided wise counsel, steadfast support and genuine care for countless youth and their families served by the Kamloops Youth Resources Receiving and Planning Program and by the Youth Probation Attendance Program.

When she retired, the family gifted her a fluffy white Lhasa Apso puppy named Kye. It was love at first sight! Kye was her constant companion for the next 17 years. They were known by everyone on her neighborhood walking route. She was truly heartbroken when Kye passed earlier this year Our family is comforted by the knowledge that they are together again.

Leone was a lifelong dog lover and even spent time training and competing in Retriever trials. She loved horseback riding and feeding the birds. She knew the name of every dog and cat in her neighborhood. You could always find her puttering around her garden, maintaining her beautiful flowers. She loved to laugh and wasn’t beyond sharing a naughty joke. She would dance the night away She was always game for a road trip or adventure. We have many happy memories of family camping trips, rodeo’s, PNE visits, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, hockey games and tournaments, Sunday drives and getaways to sunny locales. She was like a kid in or around water She could swim like a fish or float the afternoon away on her back. She loved boat rides on the lake at the family cabin.

Leone was the matriarch of a large, loving family She was the softest, safest place to land with a problem or concern. We often teased her about “holding court”. Her happiest moments were with her family sharing the knowledge and wisdom gained from her own resilience and experience. We will truly miss her presence in our lives.

Left to cherish her memory are her children Cindy (Jim), Shane, Rusty and Deanna (Shane), grandchildren Missy (David), Jamie (Mark), Erin, Alexis and Ethan (Robyn), great-grandchildren Jacksen and Graysen. She also leaves behind numerous friends and relatives who held a special place in her life.

We are extremely grateful for the compassionate care Mom received at the Kamloops Hospice during her final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kamloops Hospice Association.

The family would like to invite all to attend a Celebration of Life to be held at The Dunes Golf Course Saturday, June 24, 2023 @ 1:00 pm.

Marianne Wiltsie 1950 - 2023

Marianne Wiltsie, of Kamloops, BC, passed away on January 9, 2023, just short of her 73rd birthday Present with her during her last hours were her sister Jacqueline, her granddaughter Lacey, and her friend Ella. She was born in Alkamaar, Holland January 29, 1950, and soon after immigrated to Canada with her family Marianne spent her formative years in McBride, BC and most of her adult years in the Merritt, Barriere and Kamloops area. She loved Kamloops and considered it to be her home. Marianne was preceded in death by her parents John and Maria Wassing. She loved them immensely; inheriting her love of flowers from her father and her love of music and little dogs from her mother Marianne’s legacy lives on through her sons Todd and Brian (Caitlin) and her 3 granddaughters Lacey, Clementine and Pepper She also leaves to grieve 5 siblings- Jacqueline (Eldrick), Leo (Irene), Bert (Yan), John (Maria) and Rita (Dwight)- aunts & uncles and numerous nieces & nephews.

Marianne was an intelligent, strong, independent and resilient woman. She was an advocate for those living with mental illness and in 1999 was a nominee for the Kamloops YMCA Woman of Distinction, nominated in the category of health and wellness for her tireless work with the Canadian Schizophrenic Society Marianne found this work meaningful and rewarding. She overcame many difficulties in her life, but never complained and kept moving forward.

On Marianne’s behalf, the family would like to thank the staff at Overlander Care Home; particularly those working in the Blueberry unit. The compassion and respect shown Marianne was greatly appreciated.

Marianne was a woman of faith. She was deeply loved and will be missed

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore……”

Reg Lucas

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Reg Lucas on April 19, 2023 at Royal Inland Hospital after a brief illness. Reg was born in Regina, Saskatchewan on November 6, 1938. He is survived by his wife of 62 years Barb, daughter Terri (Chris), sons Rob (Deb) and Tim (Susan), 8 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He also leaves his sister Marie, brother Bob (Libby) and predeceased by his brother Barry

Reg was raised in North Vancouver After graduating high school he worked in the insurance industry for many years moving around the Province and settling in Kamloops in 1970. In 1977 the family moved to Invermere where Reg and Barb owned and operated a McLeods Hardware Store for nine years. During those years they formed strong bonds with wonderful friends that endure today They moved back to Kamloops in 1987 where Reg returned to the insurance industry until his retirement in 1999.

Reg was an active volunteer with Kinsmen in his younger years and with Rotary for many years after that. He was a founding member of the Kamloops Aurora Centennial Rotary Club and a Paul Harris fellow Reg was active in the Rivers Trail project with the City of Kamloops as well as the Parks and Recreation Committee. He was also a member of the Kamloops Woodworkers Guild using his hands to create masterpieces from furniture to toys for kids in need.

Reg could fix or do almost anything he put his mind to. He helped his children with countless renovation projects and was most willing to help friends who were in need of a “Mr Fixit”. In retirement Reg and Barb spent many summers at Shuswap Lake and travelling. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee as much as a nice glass of wine. Reg had a tremendous work ethic and lived life according to his own values. Never afraid to speak his mind or impart his own humour into the conversation.

A gathering of friends and family will take place on Saturday, May 6, 2023 in the Coquihalla Ballroom of the Double Tree Hotel at 1:00 pm.

Condolences may be sent to the family at Drake Cremation.com

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

Every Brilliant Thing closes WCT’s season

Linds, who is also an actor, will juggle a handful of vinyl records throughout the play.

A one-person play to be staged at the Pavilion Theatre will focus on the “brilliant things” that make life worth living.

Western Canada Theatre’s (WCT) latest production is Every Brilliant Thing, which will close the theatre organization’s 2022-2023 season.

It will run from May 4 to May 13.

The play is about a mother battling chronic depression, played by Dawn Petten, and a child who creates a list of things that makes life worth living.

The play leans on Petten’s interaction with audience members — some of whom will have taken offered pieces of paper containing one item on the list of brilliant things.

“The phrase ‘audience participation’ can strike fear into any heart. But this is audience invitation engagement. I would say it’s very gentle and very loving,” Petten said.

The play, presented in an intimate in the round setting, will have Petten read out a number corresponding to a brilliant thing, which an audience

member will read out.

At other times, Petten will invite audience members on stage to briefly perform as other characters, such as her husband.

“It’s where the magic of the show happens,” Petten said.

“The discomfort, the awkwardness, the humanity, is what makes the show brilliant. Anything a person brings is correct, is perfect. All of it is workable and beautiful and just as it should be.”

WCT artistic director James

MacDonald said the play was born out of immense sadness, but noted its message is that of joy and positivity.

Petten said especially after the past three years, mental health issues are practically a universal experience, either personally or in social circles.

“We all have some history of that. The play is about how we can be resilient, how we can move forward and how we can find things worth living for,” she said.

In a one-person play, Petten is charged with bringing an astonishing amount of energy. She said she does that by engaging the audience early, chatting with people in the lobby before the show and making sure she is warmed up before the production.

But another source of her energy is the show’s music, arranged by sound designer Brian Linds, who will be performing on stage in another sense.

“When you’re doing sound design, you typically use computers to start your queue and fade songs,” Linds said. “But for this, I’m working with vinyl. So, if I’m finding a minute and 13 seconds into a song, that’s where I have to start it, every time.”

The music queues were largely written in by playwright Duncan Macmillan, but Linds chose to challenge himself by relying on his own record collection where he could.

Linds will be pulling up tracks from artists like Ray Charles, Chicago, Ornette Coleman and Daniel Johnston, all at precisely the right moment.

“It’s got to come in right at the moment. With a computer, you just find a button. For this, I’ve got to make sure it’s the right spot on the record,” he said.

Every Brilliant Thing will run from May 4 to May 13 at Pavilion Theatre, east of downtown at Lorne Street and 10th Avenue. Tickets are available at the Kamloops Live box office, in the theatre, online at kamloopslive.ca or by phone at 250-374-5483.

Thompson Valley Orchestra hits the stage

The Thompson Valley Orchestra will be presenting two concerts this weekend — on Friday, May 5, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, May 6, at 2 p.m.

The concerts will be held at the Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle, at 1550 Tranquille Rd. in Brocklehurst.

Audiences will enjoy familiar pieces from ballet, folk, tap and more, in addition to new music, such as the fun Monsters Under the Bed. Tickets are $23 for adults and $13 for high school and university students.

Children ages 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available online at thompsonvalleyorchestra.ca.

If the show does not sell out online, tickets will be available at the door — $25 for adults and $15 for students.

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

Dawn Petten (left) and Western Canada Theatre artistic director James MacDonald rehearse a scene from Every Brilliant Thing, which will be on stage at Pavilion Theatre from May 4 to May 13.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

More information on the Thompson Valley Orchestra can be found online at thompsonvalleyorchestra.ca.

TVO PHOTO

TRU plant sale set for May 6

The Thompson River University Friends of the Gardens Spring Plant Sale returns on Saturday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The annual sale, being held in person for the first time since 2019, will take place at the greenhouses behind House 10, north of the roundabout near the Campus Activity Centre.

There is plenty of free parking in Lot N (north of the greenhouses and student residence) on Saturdays.

The sale will feature thousands of colourful

annuals, perennials, grasses, vegetables, heritage tomatoes, culinary herbs and a variety of succulents.

All profits from the sale go back to the horticulture department for equipment, field trips, student bursaries, and the maintenance of the Horticulture Gardens around House 10.

TRU Friends of the Gardens also host free campus garden tours Wednesday evenings (weather dependent) from mid-May to midJuly. Go online to trufog.org for details.

SPRING FOOD DRIVE

Five-year-old

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY

Free Comic Book Day takes place on Saturday, May 6.

Free Comic Book Day is exactly what it sounds like as all the major comic book publishers publish special comics to give away for free and almost every comic book store across North America participates in the event that has been going strong for more than 20 years.

High Octane Comics, downtown at 250 Third Ave., is taking part and will be handing out free comics from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For more information, go online to freecomicbookday. com.

EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY

Emergency services in Kamloops are joining forces for Emergency Services Day on Saturday, May 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot at Sandman Centre downtown.

The event comes a day before Emergency Preparedness Week, which takes place from May 7 to May 13.

Emergency Services Day will feature a variety of emergency services partners, including Kamloops Fire Rescue, Kamloops RCMP, and BC Ambulance Service. More than two dozen partner

Community BRIEFS

organizations will be on site, including BC Sheriff Service, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Kamloops Search and Rescue, Kamloops Emergency Support Services, and many more.

MOTHER’S DAY MELA

The annual Mother’s Day Mela and Teeyan will be held on Saturday May 13, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, at 635 Tranquille Rd. in North Kamloops.

The women’s event will begin at 6 p.m. and will feature dinner, tea and sweets, entertainment, door prizes and a grand prize draw for gold jewelry (with the winner needing to be in attendance to collect the prize).

Teeyan is a traditional dance festival that began in ancient times in India, a time when young married women would return each spring to their parents’ homes for reunions with family and friends.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Children under the age of five are admitted free of charge.

To buy tickets, call Jessie

Sangha at 250-319-1985 , Gurjit Takhar at 250-819-7077, Rajinder Lotay at 250-8286746, Fortune Health Foods at 250-554-1255 or Kamloops Immigrant Services at 778470-6101.

OFF TO MCGILL

A 2019 NorKam secondary graduate has been awarded a graduate scholarship to McGill University in Montreal.

Kyla Christianson, a current UBC Okanagan student, was chosen from a pool of nearly 700 applicants following a seven-month selection process.

The McCall MacBain Scholarship will cover all tuition and fees of a graduate program at McGill, where Christianson will further study, as well as approximately $40,000 per year in living stipends, a leadership program and summer funding options.

Christianson is studying nursing and serves as a student senator. After graduating this year, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in advanced nursing, with a concentration in global health.

Christianson founded a Rotary Youth Exchange club and was recently elected copresident of the international exchange program.

Generously suppor ted by the Women’s Ar t Initiative and Jane Ir win and Ross Hill

Layla Corrigan helped her parents gather and unload food collected on Saturday, April 29, during the Rotary Spring Food Drive. Kamloops Food Bank executive director Bernadette Siracky said 40,000 pounds of food was collected. To see more photos from the food drive, go online to kamloopsthisweek.com and click on the Community tab.

Valleyview students visit the 1950s

Kamloops Dance Academy teacher Liz Ioannidis, who is in charge of choreography.

Dance moves like The Twist, The Mashed Potato and The Pony may have fallen out of style, but a group of students at Valleyview secondary have fully adopted the retro moves for their upcoming musical, A-Wop Bop A-Loo Bop.

A cast and crew made up of students from grades 8 to 12 will take to the stage at the school from May 10 to May 13.

The play was written in 2020, but is set in the 1950s, with high school students rebelling after the local radio station decides to stop playing rock ‘n’ roll.

“Our kids, I feel, are very old school. They’re very old-spirited. They already knew many of the songs, like Tutti Fruiti and Jailhouse Rock,” said director Marietta Magliocchi.

Singing and dancing feature heavily in the play, so Magliocchi enlisted the help of music director Jaymi Daniels and

“The fact that they’re rebelling against the man, that’s something they can identify with and relate to no matter the time frame,” Daniels said.

Ioannidis is used to working with beginners, but for this play, she took a grown-up approach.

“I think only a few of them have dance experience and I’ve decided not to go easy on them so they can look good,” she said. “They’ve hustled like crazy.”

Grade 12 drama student Sascha Hall plays lead character Ruby. She has acted before, appearing in last year’s production of Puffs. She has also attended a Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music arts camp.

“It’s a lot more effort than a normal play. It’s acting, singing and dancing, sometimes all at the same time,” Hall said.

Fellow Grade 12 actor Kaitlyn Bennett

Hydra Festival has returned

Chimera Theatre’s Hydra Festival is back and at The Effie Arts Collective, at 422 Tranquille Rd. in North Kamloops, through May 13.

The festival features a local, innovative works of comedy, theatre and much more.

Individual tickets are $15, a three-show package is $40, a six-show package is $60, a festival pass for all shows is $130 and a festival supporter pass (which includes admission to all shows and a t-shirt and perks) is $165.

For a schedule and synopsis of every performance, go online to kamloopsthisweek.com and click on the Community tab.

XploreSportz Pro D Day Camp

Ages 7-12 1/$49

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

Tournament Capital Centre Fri May 19 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

plays Judy, a quirky, energetic junior. Bennett picked up the new dances quickly, researching The Twist, The Mashed Potato and The Pony and helped teach the moves to her fellow cast members.

“I didn’t realize how much goes into making a musical happen,” Bennett said. “There’s so many different things. Last year I did Puffs and there was no music or dancing, but with that involved, it’s a whole other level.”

Ioannidis said anyone who has performed in a musical knows how difficult they can be, especially in the final weeks of preparation.

“These kids, they get it and they’re a really nice little teen family,” she said.

The play has four showings, each night at 6:30 p.m. from Wednesday, May 10, to Saturday, May 13, at Valleyview secondary.

Tickets to A-Wop Bop A-Loo Bop are available at the school office — $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and younger.

Beginner Crochet 4/$80

In this beginner course focuses on teaching you the basic crochet stitches, tools and terms and takes you through project that will allow you to utilize these stitches Some supplies required Sa-Hali Secondary School

Wed May 31 - June 21 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Mother Day/Wedding Fabulace Cake 1/$35

Join Shirley the Cake Lady as she teaches you new techniques to develop your skills for enhancing celebration cakes which are much more elaborate Some supplies required Norkam Secondary School

Thurs May 11 6:30 PM -8:30 PM

Mother’s Day Craft Ages 2 - 4 1/$8

Bring your little one to the KMA as we celebrate mothers, grandmothers, and all others! Join your child in creating a craft for Mother’s Day

Norkam Secondary School

Sat May 13 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

City

Valleyview secondary drama students rehearse a scene from their upcoming production of A-Wop Bop A-Loo Bop. Jacob Bean (centre) dips Lily An as Jacob Marchant reacts. The play runs at the school from May 10 to May 13.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

Zorblax Destroyer of Worlds is one of many shows being presented at the Hydra Festival through May 13. ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

save-on-foods presents: [share with us]

EYE ON COMMUNITY

CHARITY CALENDAR

Share It Forward

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.

100 WOMEN WHO CARE SUPPORT BRAIN INJURY: The 100 Women Who Care philanthropic group raised $9,200 for the Kamloops Brain Injury Association. In the photo, from left: KBIA executive director David Johnson, Shannon Wallis, Maryanne Bower, Bobbie Harrison and Tobin Stuart.

To learn more about 100 Women Who Care and how you can join, go online to 100womenkamloops.com.

GO BY BIKE WEEK IS BACK FOR SPRING

Spring Go by Bike Week takes place between May 29 and June 4, 2023.

GoByBike Kamloops is a not-for-profit event made possible by a number of sponsors, both locally and provincially. Their aim is to make a fun and engaging event that brings the community together, promoting health, wellness, sustainability and biking.

Logging your rides is completed in exchange for being entered to win a prize from a draw but many participants choose to participate in an effort to focus on their active transportation efforts.

After completing registration online, you can log the kilometres that you have ridden online through the provincial program. The purpose of the week-long event is geared toward encouraging British Columbians to cycle as much as possible — whether it’s commuting to work or school, for fun or simply to relieve stress.

You can register as a cyclist for this spring’s event at: https://gobybikebc.ca/ kamloops/.

Faith: Focusing on the clarity of scripture

the bread and wine of the communion table were truly the body and blood of Christ.

Irecently finished a book by Casey Chalk called The Obscurity of Scripture. Chalk is a former Presbyterian seminarian (now Catholic) who began questioning the Protestant concept of what is sometimes called “perspicuity” (meaning clarity). Underpinning the doctrine of clarity is sola scriptura — by scripture alone. That idea is an essential attribute of most Protestant belief systems, first articulated by Martin Luther.

It says the Bible alone is adequate for every believer to achieve salvation and that scripture is clear enough for any reading person to understand it. Luther argued there is no need for priests or bishops or theologians or church councils or ancient church fathers or tradition — what Catholics refer to as the “Magisterium” of the church, the collected body of wisdom, practice and interpretation.

Martin Luther was quite aggressive and, frankly, unpleasant with other Protestants whose “clear” interpretation of scripture differed from his own. For example, Swiss Reform pastor Ulrich Zwingli argued that Jesus’ phrase “this is my body” was figurative, not literal, whereas Luther held to the Catholic view (mostly) that

For his differing view, Luther called Zwingli a schwrmer (fanatic) and mockingly called him “The Giant of Zurich.” Luther wrote, “our fanatics, however, are full of fraud and humbug.” They were both reading the same “clear” scripture, but came to radically different conclusions about what it truly meant.

It is Zwingli’s position that is held as true in the majority of Protestant denominations, including the ones I attended in the first 53 years of my life. I certainly puzzled over this issue myself when I read and meditated on the Gospel of John, chapter 6.

Jesus says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”

When the Jews heard this, they were scandalized: “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” But Jesus doubled down on what he meant: “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.”

One of the most distressing lines in all of scripture is this: “From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.” The Son of God, regarded at least as a prophet by

almost all who heard him and saw the miracles he performed, was then abandoned by scores of his disciples after teaching the doctrine of transubstantiation.

This is the doctrine that the elements of the eucharist, the bread and the wine, are transformed by the Holy Spirit into the body and blood of Christ. The Catholic and Orthodox churches hold to his belief. Why?

Because centuries of tradition and faithful interpretation of the scriptures hold it to be true. It is what is a called a “sacred mystery.” Every Catholic and Orthodox believer who consumes the bread and wine know they are eating “bread” and “wine”. It is a matter of sincere faith, however, that Jesus, who promised he would be with us always, is truly present in the elements.

When Jesus asked Peter if he was going to leave, too, Peter responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.”

I have a vintage truck, a 1946 Dodge.

ICBC has registered it as a 1946 Dodge, even after I took the cab off the original frame and transferred it to a 1995 Dodge Ram.

Essentially, its function and underlying identity is a 1995 Dodge Ram pickup. But anyone looking at it sees a 1946 Dodge.

Likewise, we see and taste bread and wine,

but the essence of the eucharist is the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I don’t know how it happens, but I have faith that it does and that is clear to me.

KTW welcomes submissions to its Faith page. Columns should be about 700 words in length and can be emailed to editor@kamloopsthisweek.com. Include a headshot and a brief bio.

Kamloops Calvary Fellowship

Sunday Mornings 10:00 Valleyview C entennial Park C ommunity Hall

2288 Park Drive

Pastor Phil Ward All Are Welcome! C

CHRIS KEMPLING SPECIAL TO KTW

WEEKLY COMICS

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Aries, even though you have been making great progress, you have some more work ahead of you this week Overcome any distractions that get in your way

Taurus, you may want to avoid crowds this week Use this oppor tunity to enjoy some quiet, alone time to recharge There will be time for socialization in the weeks ahead

You may be called in as a mediator this week, Gemini It may be challenging to remain impar tial, as you are friendly with both people involved Tread carefully

Cancer, there are a few decisions that you will need to make in the days to come and they are not to be taken lightly Give each ample time and consider all angles

An oppor tunity all but falls into your lap, Leo Make sure you jump on this because oppor tunity may not knock again The benefits are too big to pass up

There is not much more help you can lend to a situation, Virgo This week you may have to accept that you have simply done all that you could do Move on and focus on the future

Expect some strange things to happen to you this week, Libra The unexpected could be the breath of fresh air you need, especially if your schedule has been stagnant

Scorpio, assist a loved one as much as you can this week You may need to be a devoted caregiver or a listening ear Whatever the case, handle it with undivided attention

Sagittarius, a deep focus on health may compel you to get around to making some changes you’ve been planning Embrace this newfound resolve

-

Capricorn, allow others to take the lead when a project ends up coming across your desk You could learn something from the exper tise of others if you emulate their actions

Aquarius, you have left no stone unturned in a situation that involves relocation Now it is just a matter of wait and see Give it a few weeks, then move on

Pisces, others have very positive things to say about you, especially during the course of the next few days Relish in their attention

ZITS by Jerry Scott & Jim Borgman

SHOE by Gary Brookins & Susie Macnelly

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE by Chris Browne

PARDON MY PLANET by Vic Lee

ARCTIC CIRCLE by Alex Hallatt

BABY BLUES by Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott

1. Inundates with messages 6. Starting from

68. Ode to reparation for sin?

Really into

1 Drains

2 Vertically level

3 ‘‘It’s nothing’’

4 Protect oneself against Covid, say

5 Expression of exasperation

6 Limón, first Latina poet laureate of the U S

7 Like clothing patches

8 City west of Daytona Beach

9 Kids’ creations from sofa cushions

10 Lightheaded sorts?

11 [Man, that hurts!]

12 Creative writing and industrial design, for two

13 Restorative process

14 Hear

15 Flawed but relatable protagonist

16 ‘‘ ahead’’ (redundant advice)

17 Fill

KNOW AN AMAZING PERSON IN OUR COMMUNITY?

Nominations are now open for the 2023 KTW Community 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.

Scan and tell us who you think is an amazing leader or visit www.kamloopsthisweek.com/leader-awards

NOMINATION CATEGORIES: COACH

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

COMMUNITY BUILDER

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

YOUTH VOLUNTEER MENTOR

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 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 risen above adversity or formidable challenges to become a success. As a result, they have had a positive effect on the people around them

COURAGE ENVIRONMENTAL LEADER

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

VOLUNTEER FRESH IMPACT UNDER 40

This person under 40 is recognized for going above and beyond in our community who in a variety of fields and endeavours

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

INDIGENOUS LEADER

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.