Kamloops This Week May 10, 2023

C I T Y PAG E

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 obser ve through the City YouTube channel.

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

June 1, 2023 (Cancelled)

10:00 am - Community and Protective Ser vices Committee

June 6, 2023

10:00 am - Committee of the Whole

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

CO U N C I L M E E T I N G R E C A P

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

N OT I C E TO M OTO R I S T S

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

• 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

• 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

2 N D A N N U A L C I T Y AU C T I O N

The City of K amloops, in par tnership with Team Auctions, will be hosting an online auction May 25–28, with in-person viewing at Valleyview arena from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on May 23–27. Find hundreds of surplus assets and unclaimed lost or stolen items up for bid, including electronics, tools, equipment, vehicles, tires, bikes, and more

Bidding opens at 9:00 am on Thursday, May 25, and star ts closing at 9:00 am on Sunday, May 28. Some items are already available to view All bids will take place online and registration is required to par ticipate Visit: Kamloops.ca/Auc tion

Residents seek ing lost or stolen items are encouraged to attend the open house and search the auction web page. Email your name, phone number, and item description, including associated auction number in order to make a claim: purchasing@kamloops.ca and jennifer@teamauctions.com

A Community Ser vices or RCMP representative will contact you to advise on next steps

S AV E T H E P L AY DAT E

The highly anticipated accessible water park and inclusive playground at Riverside Park are set to officially open on the May long weekend Parkgoers will enjoy a ribbon cutting, children’s activities, and food trucks at the grand opening event on Saturday, May 20, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

The new playground—built to incorporate the existing playground—includes several new structures, including a We- Go -Round, a We-Saw, and a ZipKrooz The upgraded spray park also includes new accessible features in its design.

Attend this free event and celebrate the City's first fully accessible and inclusive playground!

For more information on the full scope of the Riverside Park Improvements Project, visit: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/Riverside

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

A Council-authorized curbside residential organic waste collection program is coming soon to all single - and multi-family households in the City of K amloops that receive curbside car t collection. If you have a set of garbage and rec ycling car ts that are collected by City trucks, your household is included Learn more about the organics program and subscribe to receive updates on key community rollout milestones, such as the timing of car t deliver y for your zone and the star t date for city-wide curbside residential organic waste collection, at: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/Organics

RECREATION AWARD FOR KAMLOOPS

The City of Kamloops’ community wellness program has received a Program Excellence Award from the BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA).

The award recognizes innovative programs successful in improving individual and community-level social and physical well-being —

TODAY’S FLYERS

serving as a model for other local governments and organizations to enhance their services.

Kamloops’ program is a partnership project with Kamloops Immigrant Services and PLAYKamloops. In the program, newcomers to Canada get to experience seasonal multi-sport and recreational opportunities and community

events, exploring Canadian culture, sport and recreation.

The program began in 2021 as a women’s and girls’ wellness program. It quickly expanded to include children and youth programming and has since evolved to be inclusive of all family members.

WEATHER FORECAST

May 10: Sunny 22/10 (hi/low)

May 11: Sunny 24/10 (hi/low)

May 12: Sunny 26/12 (hi/low)

May 13: Sunny 32/14 (hi/low)

May 14: Sunny 34/14 (hi/low)

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Schooling public on car-free areas

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A collaboration between the City of Kamloops and School District 73 will create a car-free perimeter around one Kamloops school during drop-off and pick-up times as part of a pilot project meant to make school streets safer.

Arthur Hatton elementary in North Kamloops will be a car-free area from May 29 to June 9 during the drop-off time in the morning and the pick-up period in the afternoon.

Local residents will still be permitted, but those drivers are being asked to drive at a “walking pace.”

The pilot project will be held during the spring GoByBike Week and is intended to encourage active modes of transportation, such as walking or biking.

“The program helps to build a sense of community and foster a greater sense of belonging among students, staff and nearby residents by creating a shared space for socializing before and after school,” Kamloops-Thompson board of education chair Heather Grieve said.

Closures will include Schubert Drive from Holly Avenue to Oak Road and Chestnut Avenue from Schubert Drive to Fortune Drive Frontage Road. Closures will run from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, through the two-week period.

Kamloops pediatrician Trent Smith, who pitched the idea to the Kamloops-Thompson board of education in November 2022, said children are generally achieving below recommended physical activity levels.

“Active transportation is an intuitive way to build in more physical activity into the daily routine without having to set aside time or make specific activity plans,” Smith said. City of Kamloops transportation manager Purvez Irani said other cities, including Victoria, Vancouver and Surrey, have successfully implemented safer school street initiatives in the past.

“After seeing the benefits in those communities, the City of Kamloops was happy to partner with the school district to pilot a similar initiative here,” Irani said.

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

For a two-week period, from May 29 to June 9, Arthur Hatton elementary in North Kamloops will be a car-free area during the drop-off time in the morning and the pick-up period in the afternoon. Closures will include Schubert Drive from Holly Avenue to Oak Road and Chestnut Avenue from Schubert Drive to Fortune Drive Frontage Road. Closures will run from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. DAVE EAGLES/KTW

RAID NETS POLICE THREE KGS OF FENTANYL

MOUNTIES ALSO SEIZED A KILOGRAM OF COCAINE, 550 GRAMS OF METHAMPHETAMINE, TWO FIREARMS, TWO TASERS, TENS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN CASH AND TWO VEHICLES

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Three kilograms of fentanyl, the drug connected to the vast majority of the more than 11,000 overdose deaths in B.C. since 2016, were seized from a home in Batchelor Heights on May 3.

In addition to the fentanyl found via a search warrant at the Stagecoach Drive home, police seized a kilogram of cocaine, 550 grams of methamphetamine, two firearms, two tasers, tens of thousands of dollars in cash and two vehicles. A man was arrested and charges are pending.

The raid on the home was the culmination

of an investigation by the Kamloops RCMP’s targeted enforcement unit that began in January.

According to Sgt. Todd Woon, the targeted enforcement unit focuses on local drug traffickers associated with the highest levels of violence and risk to public safety.

“Illicit drug toxicity was responsible for approximately 90 deaths in the Kamloops area in 2022,” Woon said in a release.

“The presence of over 30,000 doses of fentanyl in this residence posed a significant risk to public safety, not only through the potential of overdoses, but also due

to the gun violence this type of activity brings to the community.”

Supt. Jeff Pelley, head of the Kamloops RCMP, said the seizures of

drugs, cash and weapons is tied directly to the detachment’s strategic priorities to target drug traffickers and those who use firearms

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and violence.

“We expect this effort to have significant impacts and disruptions on the local drug trade,” Pelley said, noting the

The raid on the Stagecoach Drive home in Batchelor Heights on May 3, 2023, was the culmination of an investigation by the Kamloops RCMP’s targeted enforcement unit that began in January.

names of those arrested in the operation will be released when the investigation is concluded and charges are approved by Crown.

Students from Japan, Columbia, Taiwan, Mexico, Spain, ages 13-18 years old

2 students per family, separate bedrooms

July 3 - July 29, 2023

Saskatchewan School District English Program

4-week Open Language & Culture Program students from Taiwan, ages 15-16 years old, 1 student 20 years old

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July 9- July 30 & July 9 - August 3, 2023

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August 9 - August 25, 2023

3 week language and culture program

Arrival/Departure dates: August 7 – 8 to August 26 – 28, 2023

Students from Japan, Mexico, Taiwan, Ukraine, ages 13 - university age

2 students per family, separate bedrooms

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RCMP PHOTO

Gas pains strike theatre company

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

An unexpected $8,700 gas bill has left the Kamloops Players struggling to survive, with the community theatre group hoping to raise funds to cover the bill over the next six months.

The problem started in 2018, when a furnace was improperly installed on the theatre side of the building at 422 and 424 Tranquille Rd. in North Kamloops.

The Stage House Theatre (now the Effie Arts Collective) was in the building.

Kamloops Players Society president Rod Deboice explained that for three years, from September 2018 to February 2021, owners of neighbouring restaurant, Hatsuki Sushi, were unknowingly paying for the theatre’s gas.

During that time, Deboice said, the non-profit had been receiving and paying bills from Fortis and noticed they were less expensive than before, but attributed that savings to the newer, more efficient furnace. As it turned out, those bills only contained basic charges and not gas usage.

“To us, we’re paying Fortis every month, thinking nothing is wrong. No one is hardly ever in

our theatre with just three or four shows a year,” Deboice said.

The issue was only discovered when owners of Hatsuki Sushi went on vacation and returned to a gas bill that showed usage that could not have happened.

Deboice said the furnace was installed by a friend of a former director, who has since passed away, and the identity of the installer remains unknown. He said all parties involved have been supportive in their efforts to settle the debt, including the building’s owner and affected businesses.

Deboice said he wants to make it right, noting the non-profit theatre group has already paid $3,500 toward the bill from its coffers.

For the remainder, however, the Kamloops Players are hoping donations from the community will help bail them out. The group has launched an online GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $5,400. The campaign can be found online at gofundme.com by searching “S.O.S. - Save Our Society!”

“We came up with $3,500, which was basically the money we had from selling our lighting and our props,” Deboice said. “We sold everything that was in the theatre when we lost it.”

The group lost its spot in the Stage House Theatre in 2021, coincidentally due to another issue with its gas. Deboice said a group

of people had taken refuge on the building’s roof and, at some point, managed to cut off gas from the building while the theatre half of the structure was vacant. That led to pipes freezing and a flood over the Family Day long weekend.

That event had an impact on the theatre’s operations, shifting to a seasonal (spring and fall) season format with fewer plays per year. Deboice said the situation was improving for the company until the unexpected bill.

“Here we are, two years later, thinking we survived COVID, survived the flood of the theatre and losing it, and then along comes a $8,500 bill, which is monstrous to us,” he said.

The Kamloops Players recently completed their spring production of Almost, Maine at the Paramount Theatre downtown, Next up will be the dark comedy/drama Ravenscroft in the fall.

The Kamloops Players aren’t the only ones affected by the gas line mix-up. After they left the building, the Effie Arts Collective moved in and has amassed a big bill of its own since the gas mix-up continued through the Effie’s first two years in the building.

Co-owner Aaron Shufletoski said the collective is determining its next steps.

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The inside of the Effie Arts Collective on its monthly jazz night. The Effie used to be known as the Stage House Theatre.

EFFIE ARTS COLLECTIVE PHOTO

A Burgher with a side of quiet resolve OPINION

We need more guys like Wayne Burgher. When Burgher and wife Tammy walked out of the Safeway store in North Kamloops on May 1, they could have ignored the yelling and screaming coming from the parking lot.

As he told KTW, chaos on the streets these days is the norm.

What was once notable is now white noise to be ignored — yelling and screaming as ubiquitous as sirens and train whistles, daily cacophony blending together in a mundane melody.

But pay attention they did — and that focus landed an assault suspect in cuffs and may have saved a 60-year-old woman from further harm.

The story of Burgher helping a woman who was being assaulted by a man ignited by road rage of some sort was published in last week’s print edition of KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

Perhaps Burgher’s finest flair is the fact he stared down the thug with the absolute goal of not engaging in violence. It is an excruciatingly difficult task when one factors in adrenaline, an innate sense of knowing right from wrong and a baseline desire in some to beat the daylights out of a cowardly bully.

Nevertheless, Burgher stuck to his conviction — without weapons, or fists, or feet — and worked on words in an attempt to wrestle the conscience of the adversary into submission.

Burgher may have not succeed-

KTW

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EDITORIAL

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Christopher Foulds

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Dave Eagles

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CIRCULATION

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Serena Platzer

ed in having his opponent raise the proverbial white flag, but he did enough to stall his escape and allow Mounties to get their man.

“I don’t believe in violence,” Burgher said. “Absolutely not. Violence on violence just doesn’t work.”

It’s an interesting, and laudable, approach to a violent situation.

People are complex. Situations can be complex. It takes fortitude of the zen kind to be able to wade into a frenzy and use one’s mind and words to defuse a human dynamite stick.

Burgher placed himself in harm’s way to help a woman he saw being assaulted. Despite his goal of de-escalating the situation without resorting to violence, he could have very well been a victim of that which he tries assiduously to avoid.

For that he deserves the accolades still being sent his way.

And Burgher carries this conviction while acknowledging how bad the situation on Kamloops’ streets have become.

“We have got to take our community back,” he told KTW. “We need to get our community back. We need safety back.”

Befitting a quiet man who decided to get involved and not simply walk by a woman in distress, Burger dismisses any talk of his act being one of heroism.

This quote in particular caught my eye: “You know what? I’m not a hero. You know what I am? I’m just the guy that my dad raised me to be. Exactly how he raised me to be is you look after people that need help.”

That quote speaks to a deeper issue that is tied to much of the disorder we see on the streets. Broken homes, parents with addictions, deadbeat dads — they all contribute to the mess we see today.

Burgher’s dad raised him well. Perhaps if those on the street were raised equally well?

But that’s a whole other discus-

sion for another day.

We also need more gals like the 60-year-old woman who was attacked the day Burgher and his wife walked by.

The woman, who asked that her name not be published, told her story to KTW and it can be read on page A12 of today’s paper.

If Burgher is a man of quiet resolve, she is a woman with a coherent, clear message — she refuses to cower to bullies.

She took her lumps, and she conceded she was afraid (as would most people attacked by a person more than half their age), but she has vowed to be in court, to follow the case to its end, with the fervent hope her attacker does not become yet another example of a justice system failure.

Whether the man is convicted and, if so, whether he is sentenced to time behind bars depends on so many factors that it is impossible to forecast.

In the meantime, she has taken steps to reclaim her independence, to tackle the trepidation that can arise when someone becomes a victim of violence.

She made a point of telling KTW that she got in her vehicle days after the attack and drove through that same construction zone where she first came into contact with her attacker, a man vexed that she had the temerity to adhere to the 30 km/h speed limit.

“I’m not gonna let this creep put that fear into me that I can’t go out of my house,” she said. “And I want all women to know we’re not alone out there, so we just gotta just keep at it.”

Courage comes in many forms, including via a victim of violence and a man who avoids violence even when facing it.

Their messages are important.

editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

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BRETT JOHNSON/UNSPLASH

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR OPINION ABOUT THAT $10-MILLION OVERPASS TO TRU

Editor:

The planned Summit Road overpass to Thompson Rivers University is a total waste of taxpayer dollars.

No matter where the windfall money is from, there is only one taxpayer. A $10-million overpass not a smart idea. The Valleyview pedestrian/cycling overpass was to cost $2 million, but the final bill came in at about $6 million.

If this is how the powers-that-be look after our tax dollars, god help us during the next three-and-a-half years of council’s term.

Why not build a fence, as was done along Tranquille Road by NorKam secondary and between Victoria Street West and the CP rail tracks?

University students should be able to walk four blocks to a proper crosswalk. Do we not have a jaywalking bylaw in this city? Perhaps a few fines will deter them from crossing Summit Drive in an unsafe manner.

Where are the bylaws officers?

It is time for some common sense  prevail at city hall.

Ross Kerr Kamloops

WE ASKED:

Editor:

The reason a fence has not been erected along the median of Summit Drive beside TRU is because there is an active herd of deer that crisscrosses the road.

Guerin Creek, the TRU campus and the slopes to the west and north of the campus are all part of the herd’s range. This issue was thoroughly examined 20 years ago when there was similar hysteria sweeping through the populace of our fine city.

The deer are still here, folks, and a fence down the middle of Summit would make the bypass a death trap for the deer.

Lets move on, shall we, and redebate some other hysteria-inducing Kamloops issue, like a performingarts centre downtown.

Don Ferguson Kamloops

considering spending $5 million of the windfall $15 million provincial grant to build a $10-million overpass for a small number of students who cannot be bothered to walk a short distance to a safe, light-regulated crosswalk.

How is this “benefiting as many residents as possible” with “muchneeded infrastructure,” which I believe was the intent of the grant? Is council bedazzled by the wondrous words of “multi-use transportation route”?

Kamloops residents may be asked in the fall to vote on funding much-needed infrastructure that will benefits thousands of residents over the coming years (not just a few students who may be here for the short term).

Frankly, if TRU is so concerned about the safety of its students, perhaps it should build the overpass.

Trudie BonBernard Kamloops

Editor:

The proposed pedestrian overpass at TRU is badly needed. Just as vehicle traffic volume is growing on Summit Drive, so too, is the number of people crossing the same route, both legally (at the crosswalk) and illegally (jaywalking wherever with no regard to traffic).

The result is increasing conflict.

Editor:

I cannot believe council is even

A performing-arts centre, a leisure pool on the North Shore, additional ice rinks and a large curling club complex are all valuable and much-needed additions to Kamloops. Even a new RCMP building and a new civic centre would benefit more residents in the long run than would an overpass so close to a regulated crosswalk.

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE?

How often do you use City of Kamloops’ arenas or pools for skating or swimming?

Vote online: kamloopsthisweek.com

The overpass will substantially reduce the issue by allowing the free flow of both pedestrian/bicycle traffic and vehicle traffic in the form of grade separation, as well as providing a far more direct route for students walking to and from the university from nearby residential areas.

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

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

Gordon Anderson Kamloops

A rendering of the proposed Summit Road overpass to Thompson Rivers University. The estimated cost of $10 million will be shared by the school and the City of Kamloops. A date for when the overpass may be constructed is not yet known.

WHEN DOVES FLY

The release of doves — birds of peace — is always a highlight at the annual Kamloops Walk for Peace, the Environment and Social Justice, which was held as a rally, rather than as a walk, amid soggy conditions this past Saturday. The kids at the event were especially enthralled by the spectacle.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Honorary degree returned to TRU

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

The honorary degree awarded by Thompson Rivers University to Mary Ellen TurpelLafond has been returned to the university.

The university made the announcement in a statement to the TRU community on Monday, May 8.

“This means that TurpelLafond no longer holds an honorary doctorate from this university and will be removed from lists of the holders of such

degrees. This also concludes TRU’s review of the matter,” the statement reads.

The former representative for children and youth in B.C. has been subject to criticism after her claims of Indigenous identity and credentials were called into question by a CBC report in October 2022.

Earlier this year, TRU announced it would consider whether or not to revoke the honorary doctor of laws degree it gave her in 2009. The university also announced it would begin looking into an Indigenous identity vetting process.

Following the initial report about Turpel-Lafond, a group formed, calling itself the Indigenous Women’s Collective, and asked universities to rescind their honorary degrees.

Several universities did so, including the University of Regina, the University of Saskatchewan and Carlton University, while Turpel-Lafond returned her honorary degree from other institutions, including Vancouver Island University and Simon Fraser University.

“TRU acknowledges the importance of Indigenous identity and the need for the

university to do more to protect First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, staff and faculty from the impacts of any fraudulent identity claims, as well as to ensure benefits intended for Indigenous members go to Indigenous persons,” the statement continues.

“Work is underway on new Indigenous-led and Indigenousdriven protocols to assess Indigenous identity at TRU. The university is committed to learning from and working in partnership with First Nations, Métis and Inuit leaders and communities.”

VICTIM OF ROAD-RAGE ATTACK WANTS JUSTICE

The 60-year-old woman told KTW her attacker spit in her face, punched her pacemaker

KAMLOOPS

AKamloops woman who said her pacemaker was hit hard when she was assaulted by a man in a road rage-connected incident wants her assailant to be punished to the fullest extent of the law, if he is convicted.

The 60-year-old woman, who asked that her name not be published, said the May 1 attack occurred when a man who tailgated her vehicle as she drove through the Fortune Road construction site in North Kamloops confronted her in the parking lot of the Fortune Shopping Centre strip mall.

She said she was returning from an appointment downtown and had slowed to the mandated 30 km/h through the Fortune Road construction zone.

“So, this guy was behind me and, you know, I thought nothing of it because everybody’s travelling the same. And when I looked in my rear view mirror, he was so irate, so angry, yelling, screaming and I thought, ‘What the heck is going on?’ Because you could see he was clearly mad,” she said.

“And so he just kept riding up on the back end of my car, so close. I’m like, man, I got a lady in front of me that’s gonna stomp on her brakes and I’m gonna get hit. And I’m only allowed to go 30, just like everybody else.”

As the vehicles exited the construction zone, she said her tailgater sped past her in the right lane, while she continued on Fortune and pulled into the shopping centre lot, parking in front of Safeway.

The tailgater was also in the parking lot and, she said, started walking toward her as she left her vehicle.

“When I left my car, he was already yelling and coming at me and I was yelling at him,

like back off, this was a 30 km/h zone. He was just yelling profanity, lots of swear words, ‘fat bitch, fat bitch.’”

Before she knew it, she said, he was right in her face, screaming at her. She said she repeatedly told him to leave her alone.

“He touched my face with his mouth and his nose and he spit at me,” she said. “I had no way of turning around and taking off. I had no way of moving because I have two titanium knees that don’t move.

“And I’m just not that quick and he started hitting, kicking, shouting. I fell and I was positive I felt him hit my back. I’ve got bruises everywhere. So, after I was down on the ground, I didn’t see anything after that. I just heard a lot of people yelling and screaming.”

That was when passersby intervened, in particular Wayne Burgher, who came across the incident as he left Safeway with his wife. Burgher, who told KTW his story last week, followed the man while Burgher’s wife called the police, who arrived and made an arrest.

(The story on Burgher can be read in the May 3 edition of KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.)

The woman said her attacker was a man who appeared to be between 25 and 30 years of age. She said he was driving a light goldcoloured, four-door, SUV-type vehicle.

She said her right arm between her wrist and the back of her elbow is “pretty banged up because it hit the concrete really hard.” She said she also has bruising on her left hand, from the top of her fingers to the top of her hand and to the side of her wrist. In addition, she said, her fingers have cuts.

“And he punched me in the left side of my chest and I have some bruising that is there, but it’s not too bad, she said.

“But he did hit my pacemaker pretty hard, so it knocked me for a loop when I hit the ground. It’s so horrible, I can’t tell you. I’m so emotional about it.”

She said she underwent open-stomach surgery in January, noting that part of her body is also sore after the assault.

“He didn’t touch my face,” she said. “I guess I’m happy to have come out of it the way I did. I could have had it a lot worse.”

Her husband of 27 years came to the scene when called by the RCMP.

“My husband’s a really quiet man. He’s very, very, super quiet. So, when he got there, it was very upsetting for him because it is hard for him to find words. But Wayne stepped in and reassured him and reassured me. My husband was with me the whole time after that.”

Her attention is now focused on the criminal justice system.

“I absolutely want to see this guy get charged and get some time, at least something so that it puts a point out there that women are not gonna be left at the bottom of the barrel,” she said, noting any court conditions mandating he stay away from her will give her no reassurance.

“Well, I’ve lived that horror. I’ve lived that scene where I had a restraining order against my first husband,” she said. “And I can tell you he didn’t stay away from me, and he brought a switchblade, and I got tied up, and I’m telling you it did not help. He got three days in jail.”

She said she believes her attacker should spend time behind bars.

“I think that this is disgusting what he did and it could have been somebody way weaker than me,” she said.

The man was arrested and released with conditions as the investigation continues. Charges have not yet been laid.

In the meantime, she said she is not letting the incident force her from living her life.

“I went out today, though, just so you know. I got in my car and I drove across that bridge and through that construction zone back to the hospital because I had to have x-rays and stuff on my leg,” she said.

“And I went by myself and I’m not gonna let this creep put that fear into me that I can’t go out of my house. And I want all women to know we’re not alone out there, so we just gotta just keep at it.”

THISWEEK

“I absolutely want to see this guy get charged and get some time, at least something so that it puts a point out there that women are not gonna be left at the bottom of the barrel.”

— 60-YEAR-OLD VICTIM OF MAY 1 ATTACK IN FORTUNE SHOPPING CENTRE PARKING LOT

$18 million spent on film productions in 2022

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

The efforts of the Thompson-Nicola Film Commission brought $18 million in spending to the region last year, according to a report from film commissioner Terri Hadwin.

Hadwin presented the report to the ThompsonNicola Regional District board on May 4.

That $18 million includes labour, profit, supply and service spending impacts, according to Hadwin.

Last year was particularly active for the film commission, with 82 production inquiries and 25 productions in the region. That compares to 27 production inquiries in 2020 and 49 in 2021.

To date in 2023, Hadwin said, there’s been a little more than one production inquiry each week.

The film commission,

one of eight in the province, works to bring film and video productions to TNRD locales by reading scripts, scouting locations, taking and supplying photos, acting as a liaison between producers and locals and maintaining a database of available local labour.

Projects completed last year include movie-of-theweek productions like Been There All Along, The Movie Star and the Cowboy and Destination Christmas

Other locally shot films include Outrunners, which was almost entirely shot in Kamloops and screened at this year’s Kamloops Film Festival, and the upcoming Bones of Crows, filmed in Kamloops and Knutsford, which has been screening in some communities and will be in Landmark/Cineplex theatres in June.

Hadwin was asked about the impact of strike action by the Writers Guild of America — members of

whom provide scripts for the biggest TV shows and movies that appear on TV, in theatres and on streaming services.

Hadwin said her office hasn’t yet been impacted, but did note the strike action is slowing down TV and film production in the province.

“Because the strike lasted so long in years prior, I’m hoping lessons have been learned and it won’t last as long,” she said.

The Writers Guild of America last went on strike in November of 2007, with the strike lasting until February of 2008.

Hadwin said the Thompson-Nicola Film Commission goals for the year include hiring a student under the Canada Summer Jobs program, stocking up libraries with DVDs of productions filmed in the area and getting a motion picture studio built in the region.

CRUISING INTO EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY

Benjamin Hill and sister Aubrey enjoy visiting an RCMP cruiser at this past weekend’s Emergency Services Day event in the parking lot behind Sandman Centre. The event took place a day before Emergency Preparedness Week, which takes place from May 7 to May 13. Emergency Services Day featured a variety of emergency services partners, including Kamloops Fire Rescue, Kamloops RCMP, BC Ambulance Service, BC Sheriff Service, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Kamloops Search and Rescue, Kamloops Emergency Support Services. To see more photos, go online to kamloopsthisweek.com and click on the Community tab.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Wildfire staff training south of Kamloops

SMOKE MAY BE VISIBLE IN THE STAKE LAKE AREA ON MAY 10

The BC Wildfire Service will be conducting an annual training on Wednesday, May 10, approximately 15 kilometres south of Kamloops.

As part of this field-focused training, personnel will conduct burning of 15 piles of wood debris in the vicinity of Stake Lake.

The agency said the goal is to create a controlled environment to acquire hands-on training, noting all use of fire will be supervised by fully trained and certified wildfire personnel.

Smoke may be visible to travellers along the Coquihalla Highway and those out and about near Stake Lake.

As the weather warms up, residents are reminded to keep their eyes open for fires. To

report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.

The public can follow the latest wildfire news:

• on the free BC Wildfire Service public mobile app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices

• on Twitter: twitter.com/ BCGovFireInfo

• on Facebook: facebook. com/BCForestFireInfo.

Flood threat in area remains active

A temporary period of stabilization in the flood threat has arrived, but forecasters say warm weather will likely trigger further threats later this week.

Environment Canada is calling for the mercury to rise sharply in Kamloops by the end of the week, with forecast highs of 32 C and 34 C on Saturday (May 13) and Sunday.

Emergency Management Minister

Bowinn Ma said communities such as Grand Forks, east of Osoyoos near the Canada-U.S. border, received less precipitation than was originally forecast this past weekend.

As a result, the provincial River Forecast Centre downgraded flood warnings in the Boundary area to flood advisories.

Ma warned, however, that diminished risk does not mean no risk, and devastated communities such as Cache Creek, 45 minutes west of Kamloops, remain under flood warnings. In addition, states of local emergency are active in Cache Creek and in the Nicola Valley, near Merritt.

“Communities that face chal-

lenges last week, such as Cache Creek, Okanagan Indian Band and Grand Forks can expect a period of stabilization for the rivers throughout this week,” Ma said. “While the weather was co-operative, this does not mean that conditions have resolved entirely on the ground.”

The province estimates about 50 people in B.C. remain affected by evacuation orders triggered by flooding or flood risks, while another 2,000 are on alert in case of flooding.

Dave Campbell, head of the B.C. River Forecast Centre, said the next

few days will bring cooler, unsettled weather patterns that contribute little to flood risks.

However, the anticipated jump in temperatures later in the week could create more problems, possibly affecting communities that weren’t hit last week, he said.

Campbell said above-seasonal temperatures in late April and early May have burned through about a quarter of B.C.’s seasonal melt, which is much faster than normal.

But there is still more snow in higher elevations.

New recreation fees now in place

New recreation facilities fees are now officially in place.

The City of Kamloops’ amended bylaw introduces a new preschool admission fee for children ages three to six for drop-in swimming and public skating.

The single admission fee for children (ages seven to 13) is $3.94 at the Westsyde Pool and Fitness Centre and $4.57 at the Tournament Capital Centre’s Canada Games Aquatic Centre. The new preschool (ages three to six) single admission fee is $1.97 at Westsyde Pool and

Fitness Centre and $2.18 at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre.

The new age grouping offers savings to families at 50 per cent of the previous child swimming and skating rates. Admission for children ages two and under remains free for swim and skate facility drop-in.

The municipality will maintain its current age range and fees for youths (ages 14-18 pay $4.57 at Westsyde and $6.09 at Canada Games), adults (ages 19-59 pay $5.80 at Westsyde and $8.19 at Canada Games) and seniors (ages 60-plus pay $4.57 at Westsyde and $6.09 at Canada Games).

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Vehicles navigate streets in Cache Creek on May 3. KTW PHOTO

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Mayor not concerned with code of conduct

adding he wants to try to move on.

“If you don’t start doing things right, it will just keep happening,” Hamer-Jackson said.

respect and dignity and not discriminate against, bully, harass or defame any council member, staff member or volunteer.

Kamloops Mayor Reid HamerJackson sees council’s new code of conduct as a way to maintain civility and he is not concerned it may be used to sanction him.

City council has given third reading to a new code-of-conduct bylaw, which will replace a former policy that had no repercussions with one that comes with a list of penalties for breaching the bylaw.

Adoption of the document is now a mere formality.

“I think it’s great,” Hamer-Jackson said. “I think code of conduct will stop things like people on council saying that people are crossing personal, professional boundaries or a councillor saying somebody’s trying to start a concentration camp. That’s way out of line. That code of conduct, that’s going to take care of that.”

The mayor’s comments are in reference to a March 17 press conference during which Coun. Katie Neustaeter, on behalf of all eight

councillors, said the mayor has belittled and disrespected them and crossed boundaries.

Hamer-Jackson denied all accusations and council has thus far refused to elaborate on the allegations.

Hamer-Jackson was also referencing a comment Coun. Dale Bass made about a proposal HamerJackson had before he was mayor —

to build a rehab centre in Rayleigh.

Tensions between the mayor and councillors have been present since the onset of their term in October 2022. Hamer-Jackson has told KTW there has been “drama” between himself and council.

Asked if he felt the new bylaw will need to be used immediately, Hamer-Jackson said he was not going to “predict bad behaviour,”

Hamer-Jackson said he is not concerned the new bylaw will be used against him in connection with the allegations of March 17, noting he “thinks the opposite” because, in his view, poor behaviour has been displayed by councillors, not by him.

“You’ve got to prove these things,” Hamer-Jackson said.

Penalties for breaching the code of conduct bylaw include a letter of reprimand from council, issuing a letter of apology, imposing restrictions on documents a council member may receive and mandatory training on respectful workplace communication or city business. Other sanctions can include suspensions from committees or as deputy mayor, having remuneration docked for items such as travel expenses, restricted access to certain city facilities, public censure and referral to a prosecutor or police.

The bylaw states members of council will treat each other with

The bylaw outlines how council members must handle their social media accounts and city documents and how they will interact with staff. It also details how council members should avoid conflicts of interest and states council members must refrain from improper use of their influence, act with decorum at meetings and ensure their communication relating to city business is accurate and not deliberately false or misleading.

The bylaw also outlines the steps that will be taken in the event a complaint is received and an investigation is launched, which would culminate with a report on a third party investigator’s findings and recommendations for remediation. Council would then issue a complete or redacted copy or summary of the investigation report

If the report determines the respondent did not violate the bylaw, council will determine whether the report will be publicly released.

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson was elected on Oct. 15, 2022.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Forests minister confident mill will secure fibre

B.C. Forests Minister Bruce Ralston said he is confident the Kruger pulp mill in Kamloops will be able to secure a long-term supply of fibre for its operation on Mission Flats Road.

Ralston was in Kamloops on May 5 to speak to members of the Interior Logging Association, which held its annual convention and trade show in the city.

“A couple of weeks ago, maybe over a month ago, I met with the new management team of Kruger from Quebec and they’re very optimistic and pleased to have made the purchase and they’re looking forward to working in British Columbia,” Ralston said. “And they recognize the challenges that come with fibre supply. I think last week they met directly with the premier [David Eby], as well. So, I mean, they have our attention as a company.”

Ralston said government recognizes the challenges of fibre supply in the region, noting Kruger is working with his ministry and has connections with local First Nations.

“I’m confident that they will be able to resolve their concerns of long-term supply of fibre,” Ralston said. “The Kruger mill is really important in Kamloops and it’s important in British Columbia.”

In late February, Kruger representatives appeared before Kamloops council, noting the

mill at that time had a 17-day supply of wood chip inventory when it normally would have had a 30-day supply at that time of year.

The fibre shortage is due to numerous sawmill curtailments and closures, with those mills supplying the pulp mill with product. The Kamloops mill does not have a forest tenure license to log its own wood, leaving it at the mercy of the market.

Given the fibre shortage from sawmills, Kruger is increasing its use of fire-affected wood and slash piles and wants to work with First Nations to access their forest tenures.

The pulp mill has, on average, 10 suppliers, all of which have taken some downtime.

Kamloops Cit y Auc tion

The City of K amloops, in par tnership with Team Auc tions, will be hosting its second annual online auc tion May 25–28, with in-person viewing star ting on May 23. Find hundreds of surplus assets and unclaimed lost or stolen items up for bid, including elec tronics, tools, equipment, vehicles, tires, bikes, and more All bids will take place online, registration required

Viewing:

May 23–27, 10:00 am–8:00 pm

Valleyview Arena (353 Highland Road

Valhalla Smoke House food truck on site

In January, the provincial government gave $50 million to the Forest Enhancement Society of BC to get more fire-damaged wood and logging waste to mills. In addition, forestry contractors have been tasked with more work to haul fibre that would otherwise be too remote or costly to access.

Aside from the fire-damaged wood initiative, Ralston pointed to the BC Timber Supply as another area that should benefit companies like Kruger.

“The BC Timber Supply, which is a Crown agency and supplies timber for auction, is recovering, coming back to full capacity,” Ralston said.

“And I think they turned the corner this spring and this summer. so that will have an impact on the entire market. It’s typically for

companies that don’t have their own woodland tenure [such as Kruger]. They buy on the open market and the market has been shorted a bit just because they haven’t been able to bring the full allocation to the auction. But that’s changing and so that will have a good effect on the entire market, including for Kruger, as well.”

The Kruger mill employs about 340 people and supports about another 1,000 jobs indirectly. It produces five grades of pulp that are used in a variety of products worldwide, from tissue towels to fibre cement. It also generates about 460,000 megawatt hours of annual green power.

Kruger purchased the pulp mill from Domtar in June 2022. The pulp mill is one of the Kamloops’ largest employers, paying about $5 million per year to the city in property taxes.

Bidding:

Opens May 25, 9:00 am

Closing begins May 28, 9:00 am

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Minister of Forests Bruce Ralston

LOCAL NEWS

A CLEAN SWEEP ON BOTH SIDES OF THE RIVER

PEOPLE WORKING THEIR WAY OUT OF HOMELESSNESS SITUATIONS AND/OR IN RECOVERY PROGRAMS ARE BUSY CLEANING UP THE NORTH SHORE AND THE DOWNTOWN CORE

BREANNE MASSEY AND DAVE EAGLES STAFF REPORTERS

Apilot project geared toward beautification and cleaning up the North Shore and downtown business community has been extended until the end of summer.

The Clean Team is composed of people working their way out of homelessness situations and/ or who are in recovery programs. The program was created last fall by the ASK Wellness Society, the North Shore Business Improvement Association (NSBIA), WorkBC, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Smart Options and Open Door Group.

The Clean Team removes graffiti, maintains public planters and landscaping and clears away debris.

NSBIA executive director Jeremy Heighton said the six participants will be busy through the end of August on both sides of the river.

Ron Hof said he appreciates his Clean Team job.

Hof said he was recently turned down for employment at a local car dealership, due to the employer having concerns of trust based on some of Hof’s past experiences.

Jesse Burkhart has been with the team since April, taking the bus to and from his job.

Five days a week, four hours a day, he joins the Clean Team and heads out onto North Shore streets to clean up needles, garbage and other detritus the squad comes across.

Burkhart, who noted he has met “some very good guys” working with the team, said he enjoys working in the mornings.

“You have the afternoons and evenings to do whatever you want afterwards,” Burkhart said.

“I like to help people. That’s my goal — and I love keeping things clean.”

He likes the wage he earns, but added, “Helping to change someone’s life — that’s where my heart is.”

The project initially began last September, with a focus on cleaning up the Tranquille Corridor in an effort to create employment opportunities for people coping with addiction.

Heighton said the Clean Team was formed last fall directly as a result of ASK Wellness closing its mattress recycling program, which had created jobs for several program participants.

Heighton says the objective of the Clean Team is twofold: there is a community service focus geared toward cleaning up the business community and it allows people facing barriers to feel empowered and to gain meaningful employment.

Neil Van Dongen, ASK Wellness’ employment support liaison, said the biggest obstacles in helping people in recovery find employment are underlying issues.

“It’s first determining what specifically those are, and then secondly, finding appropriate interventions and support so they can actually grow from that — or we can look at what type of modifications they need to their work,” Van Dongen said. “Some people, depending on what type of challenges or barriers they’re facing, like someone with a physical disability, might need ongoing modifications to their work in order to function.”

Van Dongen added many people in recovery are eager to gain employment, but noted the challenge is they are often not quite ready for a typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. role.

“People sincerely want to work,” he said. “They want to feel a sense of purpose and they want to be on a team. We also have a certain amount of clients who are extremely grateful for what ASK Wellness has done for them and they want to feel like they’re giving back to their community in some way, somehow.”

Terrance Hawethorne is another Clean Teamer and he has a good knowledge of the right tool for the job.

“Use a broom and dustpan and a retractable grabber, especially for picking up needles,” he said.

Clean Team coordinator Ron Newman said he enjoys the work.

“It’s awesome to give back to the community that I’ve lived in for many years, to help keep it clean,” Newman said. “We get a lot of praise from the general public and the business people, which makes us all feel good.”

Heighton and Van Dongen are hopeful that Open Door Group and WorkBC will finalize a proposal that will turn the project into a provincial program.

“Our hope moving forward is that it’ll be a longer program because we’ve been confined to these 12-week programs,” Van Dongen said.

“We feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface on what kind of impact we’re able to have in that time frame and we’re hoping for it to go a lot longer.”

Kamloops Clean Team member Ron Hof (left) Jesse Burkhart, coordinator Ron Newman and Terrance Hawethorne head out in pairs for a four-hour shift to clean up North Shore streets.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

NATIONAL NURSING WEEK NATIONAL NURSING WEEK RUNS FROM MAY 8 TO MAY 14

A message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:

“We mark the beginning of National Nursing Week, a time to celebrate the tremendous contributions that nurses have made — and continue to make — across the country.

“This year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future,” recognizes the many roles nurses play, from tending to our kids’ cuts and scrapes to being with our loved ones in their final moments. Nurses are the backbone of our health-care system.

“In the last few years in particular, nurses had our backs and, today, we reaffirm that we will have their backs, too.

“Earlier this year, we made a plan to improve health care for Canadians by increasing health-care

funding by more than $198 billion over the next 10 years, including to support our health-care workforce and address backlogs in the system.

“Last year, we announced the appointment of Dr. Leigh Chapman as the new chief nursing officer of Canada and she has since been working with key partners, including

provinces and territories, to improve health care for Canadians by addressing challenges related to nursing, such as labour shortages.

“And to help more international health professionals begin working in Canada more quickly, the government of Canada is working with provinces and territories to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals.

“Nurses are there for us when we need it most. During National Nursing Week, we thank our hardworking nurses for the lifesaving work they do day in and day out with such care and compassion — and we work to build a health care system that works for all Canadians.”

PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU

INSIDE: Kamloops girl fighting for gymnastics | A24

SPORTS: MARTY HASTINGS

Phone: 250-374-7467

Email: sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Twitter: @MarTheReporter

Déjà vu — Birds bounce Blazers

Raw emotion was to be expected.

The Seattle Thunderbirds doubled the Kamloops Blazers 4-2 on Monday at Sandman Centre, the victory securing a 4-2 triumph in the best-of-seven WHL Western Conference Championship series.

“I’m not going to answer that one,” Shaun Clouston, head coach and general manager of the Blazers, said when asked to relay the feeling in the dressing room. “That one’s a given. We just lost in the conference final.”

The defeat was crushing, an abrupt end to a quest for vengeance that began one year ago, when the T-Birds ousted the Blazers in the 2022 conference final, with the knockout blow coming in Game 7, a 3-2 victory at Sandman Centre.

“Super disappointing,” said Blazers’ captain Logan Stankoven, who had nine points, all assists, in the series. “I wasn’t able to contribute this series as much as I would have liked, so frustrating. It’s kind of like last year, a close game going into the third and we just couldn’t get it done, so it’s frustrating.”

Winnipeg will play host to Seattle in Game 1 of the league championship series on Friday, May 12, with the winner of the best-of-seven affair advancing to the Memorial Cup tournament in Kamloops.

The host Blazers and the champions of the WHL, Ontario Hockey League and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League will compete for the national title

from May 26 to June 4.

“We showed signs of a mature team to get back on the horse and prepare to play a tough game tonight,” said T-Birds’ head coach Matt O’Dette, whose club fell 4-2 to Kamloops on Saturday in Kent, Wash. “Hats off to Kamloops. They’re a really good team. That was a heck of a battle. We’re happy to be moving on.”

A question mark lingered beside Dylan Sydor’s name on pre-game lineup sheets, the punctuation indicating his status for the game was uncertain, with Nathan MacPherson-Ridgewell and his voluptuous mullet tabbed to make their series debut if the Kamloopsian forward was unable to return to the ice after warm-up.

The business was in front of the net and the party was in the

back of it at 15:57 of the first frame, when Sydor — healthy enough to go — found a pocket of space to linger, an extra-split second to discharge a hometown howitzer high glove on six-foot Seattle goaltender Thomas Milic.

They heard the roar on Mark Recchi Way. Sandman Centre shook.

“It’s not good,” Sydor said of the emotional state of the dressing room after the game. “It’s definitely fuel to the fire. We’re lucky enough to get that second chance in a couple weeks here, so we’re going to do everything we can to be ready.”

Kamloops, outshot 13-5 in the period, took a 1-0 lead into the first intermission, despite failing to convert on two power play attempts.

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

“It’s a big game. We are on the brink of elimination. We knew what we had to do, but we didn’t play our best tonight when it was needed,” Sydor said. “I’m not sure [why]. We’ve got to do a better job in the locker room preparing, not being satisfied, ever. It didn’t go our way tonight.”

When Arizona Coyotes’ prospect Dylan Guenther found Reid Schaefer with a crisp pass on a 2-on-1 early in the second frame, the Nashville Predators’ prospect looked certain to light the lamp.

A stellar pad save from Kamloops netminder Dylan Ernst kept Schaefer from scoring, the lunging stop drawing a chant — “Whose house? Ernie’s house!” — from the crowd.

“He was really good again for us tonight,” Stankoven said. “If

he can play like that, he gives us a chance to win every night. That can be the difference in the series sometimes. You can’t expect him to stop everything. We’ve got to do a better job in front of him sometimes.”

Seattle dominated the first half of the second period and was rewarded when Gracyn Sawchyn won a battle on the boards and slipped a pass to Jared Davidson, whose quick shot from the faceoff dot fooled Ernst.

Smothering defence, good puck management, ample time in the offensive zone and strong forechecking seemed to wear down the Blazers.

“It took everybody,” O’Dette said. “It was hard to get matchups. They did a really good job of keeping us off balance as far as when their top guys were going to be on the ice, so every line had a hand in playing against their top guys. Stankoven’s a great player. You have to be really aware when he’s on the ice. Same with Zellweger and he was all over the place in this series.”

The Blazers’ captain told reporters he fell ill on Sunday.

“Not too sure how everyone else was feeling, but I wasn’t feeling my best,” said Stankoven, who registered a team-leading 30 points in 14 playoff games. “I was stuck in bed all day yesterday, sick. I felt better today, but I wasn’t able to bring my best tonight and it showed. It must have been something that I ate. I don’t know if it was the stomach flu or what it was, but I was the only guy that had it … but you can’t make excuses. When the game is on the line, you’ve got to show up.”

See AILING, A23

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Dylan Ernst’s incredible pad save on Reid Schaefer was among highlights for the Kamloops Blazers on Monday at Sandman Centre, but the Seattle Thunderbirds won 4-2 to advance to the Western Conference final. ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

SPORTS Ailing Mynio nets pivotal goal

The T-Birds poured it on in the third period, looking emboldened while the Blazers appeared sluggish.

“They’re a great hockey team, so you have to give them credit where credit is due,” Clouston said. “I don’t think we played our best. I think we left a little bit on the table, but that’s the way it goes. You’d have to be a psychologist and ask each guy individually why they weren’t 100 per cent. It’s a tough sport. It’s a tough game. They’re young men. They’re human beings. It’s really, really tough to be at 100 per cent, but that’s what it takes.”

T-Birds’ defenceman Sawyer Mynio of Kamloops nabbed the go-ahead goal at 5:33,

his point shot grazing Blazers’ defenceman Aapo Sarell before fluttering over Ernst and into the net.

“It was pretty sweet,” said Mynio, who broke a 30-game scoreless drought with the biggest goal of his career to date.

“I didn’t even know it went in until I saw [Nico] Myatovic chasing at me. It was huge scoring in the hometown. It’s going to be a good bus ride. Maybe we’ll stop for candy or something.”

O’Dette said Mynio, who was either sick or suffering from an injury, was nearly scratched for the game.

“Sometimes, when you battle through it, you get rewarded and good things can happen to you,” O’Dette said. “It was awesome to see that.”

The relentless Seattle

attack appeared to exhaust the Blazers, who defended poorly on Kyle Crnkovic’s goal at the 10-minute mark of the third period.

“It’s a tiring series. I’m sure guys were tired,” Clouston said.

“The mind drives the body. We looked a little better in the last few minutes, at times. We had some energy. I don’t think it was just fatigue, but fatigue obviously plays a factor. Both teams were in the exact same situation.”

Home fans were given hope when Matthew Seminoff tallied on the power play at 18:17 of the third period, the goal coming with Ernst on the bench and an extra attacker on the ice.

Ryan Hofer came close to snaring a late equalizer, but the

chance went begging and Schaefer’s clearance trickled into the empty Blazers’ net.

“It’s a tough ending, my third chance now in the playoffs,” Stankoven said. “It just felt a lot like last year, a real sour taste in our mouth, but we have the tournament coming up now, so can’t dwell on it for too long.”

Seattle was 0-for1 on the power play. Kamloops was 1-for-3.

Milic stopped 28 saves to pick up the victory between the pipes, while Ernst made 39 saves in a losing effort.

Clouston was asked for turning points in the series. He immediately cited Game 2, a 4-3 overtime loss in Kent, Wash.

“We had some really good looks,” Clouston said. “We had three Grade A chances in overtime. So that’s

definitely one. The start of the third period [on Monday], they pushed and we made an error or two that cost us.”

The Blazers have time to recharge before playing host to the winner of the QMJHL on May 26 in the Memorial Cup.

“Extremely disappointed,” Clouston said when asked how much he feels for his players. “There are guys that gave it everything they’ve got. I don’t want to take anything away from the season. It was an awesome season. We did what we needed to do. We got through the first two rounds, played really well. We’re close, but close isn’t where we want to be. We’ve got two-and-a-half weeks to get rested and regroup and get ready for the tournament.”

Rattlers rule

The under-11 Kamloops 2 Rattlers placed first on the weekend at the Penticton Barn Burner lacrosse tournament.

Kamloops posted a 5-0 record and knocked off Delta in the gold-medal game, scoring the winning goal with less than one minute to play in regulation time.

Team members include Arthur Simon, Connor Semeniuk, Cyprian Pawlyshyn, Demetrious Pawlyshyn, Issac Stamour, Jaykob Dick, Killian Moody, Lukus Kriek, Maddox Machell, Payton Samson, Ruben Kriek, Ryan Caissie, Jacob St. Amour and Spencer Sonneson.

Heather Semeniuk is head coach. Assistant coaches include Eric Sonneson, Dale Cassidy and Ryan St. Amour.

SPORTS HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASTICS TO BE AXED?

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

B.C. School Sports gymnastics is teetering on the balance beam.

The governing body’s 53-person legislative assembly will vote on whether to de-list the sport from its recognized activity list at its annual general meeting this coming weekend in Whistler.

“Am I worried about this vote? I’m very worried about this vote,” said Terry Mitruk, chair of the BCSS gymnastics advisory committee.

“In North Vancouver, we have over 100 students who do gymnastics exclusively in the schools. Half to 60 per cent of the gymnasts that participate across the province are actually high school gymnasts.”

The notice of motion to nix gymnastics is from the ThompsonOkanagan Zone, which indicates gymnastics has moved away from being run by schools and is now a community-based sport.

“We, in our zone, are not seeing any kids that come through just high school. Zero,” said Valleyview secondary phys-ed teacher Annemarie Watts, who oversees athletics for the West Zone of the Okanagan Valley.

“They’re 100 per cent clubbased. That motion came through our zone because this is what we are seeing. We want to hear from other zones. Is this an anomaly in the Okanagan? Are other zones well represented with having it coached through the high school? Those are discussions that will happen [at the AGM].”

An average of 439 studentathletes have registered for BCSS gymnastics over the past five years, according to a BCSS graph in the notice of motion.

“The perception that they’re only club gymnasts is maybe true in the Thompson-Okanagan, but it’s not true through the province,” Mitruk said. “If you lose the sport status, there is a real risk that these students will no longer get to experience gymnastics at all.”

Mitruk is miffed with communication.

“And I’m concerned that, although there may not be any gymnastics in high schools in the Thompson-Okanagan, that they’re all club gymnasts, that they would act to remove gymnastics as an option where it is present in at least three of the zones, that I’m aware of, down on the Coast,” said Mitruk, math teacher and gymnastics coach at Sutherland secondary in North Vancouver.

Mitruk said he found out about the notice of motion on April 15 and did not receive a copy until April 21.

Since then, members of the gymnastics community across B.C. have mobilized, including Grade 10 Valleyview secondary student Kaleigh Gnoato, one of more than 4,000 people to sign the “Keep gymnastics in schools” online petition.

Losing the BCSS Gymnastics Championships and qualifiers for provincials would be a significant blow, she said.

“It would be devastating,” Gnoato said. “We had provincials in Vancouver this year. It was one of the highlights of my year, being able to go down there with my closest friends and get to represent my school and city, and getting to meet athletes from other clubs in other schools in the province that you wouldn’t get to meet if this event didn’t happen.”

Gymnastics going the way of the dodo bird would disproportionately affect females, a fact acknowledged by both sides.

BCSS executive director Jordan Abney noted that of about 78,000 BCSS student-athletes, fewer than 500 are gymnastics participants.

“From a percentage standpoint, it’s a very low number,” Abney said.

Mitruk takes issue with that point.

“At what point does it become significant?” he asked, referring to the percentage and noting other sports have fewer registrants than gymnastics.

“I would argue that every child

matters. We want as many children engaging as possible. If gymnastics is the first sport to go, which sport would be next?”

Mitruk said some student-athletes on the Coast cannot afford to participate in club gymnastics.

“We don’t make cuts to teams,” Mitruk said. “We’ve got students who would never make another team. They’ve got body types you would never associate with gymnastics. They don’t like team sports. We have such a diverse array of individuals.”

The notice of motion highlights a disconnect between athletics directors and club coaches that leads to incomplete registration and fines paid by the schools.

“I don’t feel like that is a reason to cancel something as much as something individual people can improve on,” Gnoato said.

The notice of motion states schools can save money on banners, medals and awards and reduce staff workload by cutting gymnastics.

The 53-person legislative assembly includes three representatives from each of the nine BCSS zones, chairs of policy committees, representatives from partner organizations and the board of directors.

“We’ve heard from many people within that community who are very passionate about it. That will all be brought to the legislative assembly for their information prior to any decision being made,” Abney said.

This story has been edited for length. Go online to kamloopsthisweek.com to read more.

Brooklyn Mallais (left) of Brock middle school and Marajade Goertz, Faith Talla and Kaleigh Gnoato of Valleyview secondary took part in the B.C. School Sports Gymnastics Championships in March at École Windsor secondary in North Vancouver. The event will be wiped out of BCSS nixes gymnastics.

Nationals underway

Kamloops is well represented on under-18 Team B.C. squads at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships, which got underway on May 7 in Winnipeg.

Goaltender Benjamin Turvey, 16, of the Whispering Pines/Clinton First Nation and defenceman Jobie Siemens, 18, of the Bonaparte First Nation cracked Team B.C. on the boys’ side.

Defenders Jaylah Bottle, 15, of T’kemlups te Secwepmec and Kate Streek, 16, are representing the province on the female side.

The tournament is slated to run until May 13.

Find the game schedule and streaming links online at nahc2023.ca.

ARMSTRONG LEGGING IT

Gabby Armstrong (left) of the Kamloops Track and Field Club explodes over a hurdle on the weekend at Hillside Stadium at the Dylan Armstrong Classic. KTW photographer Allen Douglas brought his camera to the event. Find more of his photos online at kamloopsthisweek.com. The KTFC is short on volunteers for the Okanagan Track and Field Championships, which will take place on May 18. Those who can help can email president Judy Armstrong at judy54armstrong@gmail.com.

CARPET BOWLERS TOP PODIUM

Four Kamloopsians earned gold medals at the B.C. Carpet Bowling Championships last week in 100 Mile House.

Skip Marie Lewis, Roland Phoenix, Louise Phoenix and Bruce McAllister finished atop the podium in the fours event.

Lewis and the Phoenixes picked up gold in the threes competition.

Benjamin Turvey (left) and Jobie Siemens are toiling for B.C. at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships in Winnipeg.

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Looking for a meat cutter / wrapper to join our team

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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

Looking for a meat cutter / wrapper to join our team Some experience needed, along with a great work ethic and attitude We are a provincially inspected Class A Abattoir with a far m to plate concept and are located nor th of Kamloops, BC Valid Driver ’s licence and reliable transpor tation a must Benefits available after three months Par t time and full-time positions currently available Please send resume to: rangelandjob @hotmail com

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

Steve Sviatko 1930 - 2023

Steve grew up in New Westminster where he played basketball at Duke of Connaught and Trapp Tech Secondary schools. It’s also where he met and married his wife, Eileen. With Steve’s career with the Ministry of Highways –beginning as a surveyor and retiring as an acting regional manager - they set up homes with their three daughters around British Columbia - from the Lower Mainland to Smithers, Salmon Arm, and Cranbrook before landing in Kamloops.

In retirement, Steve pursued his passions for photography, music, and golf. He was an active member of Rivershore Estate and Golf Links from its opening day, including stints as club president and strata president, until 2020 Yes, that’s right: he was playing golf several times a week at 90 years old.

Steve is predeceased by his pretty lady, Eileen; his sisters Mary, Ethel, and Julie; his brother, Bill; and his greatgrandson, Raen.

Many heartfelt thanks to the nurses and care aides in 5 North at Royal Inland Hospital who made a challenging time a little easier

At Steve’s request, there will be no formal celebration of life, however, please lift a glass in cheer to a life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the BC Children’s Hospital and/or the BC Cancer Agency which were both near-anddear to Steve’s heart.

LOIS CHAMPIGNY This is Your Life

Please join Lois as she gathers with dear friends and family As this is her special day, she is asking everyone to wear a silly / goofy hat in keeping with her wonderful sense of humour

She is asking for this day to be filled with Love, stories, happiness and humour. Please share your stories with her

Mom wishes that there be no service once she is gone so lets get-together with her and have a wonderful day

When: Saturday, May 13, 2023

Location: Kamloops United Church, 421 St. Paul St., Kamloops

Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm

Beverages and Sandwiches will be provided.

A MEMORIAL TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF RAYMOND OSCAR SCOTT (RAY)

In Ray's memory we will gather and celebrate his life, and to share memories.

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2023 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at SUMMIT DRIVE BAPTIST CHURCH 1975 SUMMIT DR. KAMLOOPS, B.C.

Boyd Allison Morris

March 19, 1938 - April 19, 2023

It is with a heavy heart, we share the passing of our wonderful father, Boyd on April 19, 2023 in Kamloops. Born in Targettville, New Brunswick on March 19, 1938, to Bert and Cora Morris. Boyd lived in New Brunswick with his family until 1961 when he made his way to Calgary, Alberta. This is where he met his wife Patricia at Renfrew Chrysler, and they were married on June 1, 1964. In 1967, their son Terry was born followed by their daughter Tracy in 1970. They made Calgary their home until 1974 when they moved their young family to Kamloops, and they opened an auto parts business. Dad ran the business for a few years but needed a change, many nights were spent learning the insurance and investment business. He became an Insurance/Investment broker and was still working up to the day of his passing. There was never a place he could go where he didn’t stop and chat with someone he knew Boyd was always up for a good conversation, always willing to give advice and always willing to lend a helping hand.

Boyd was predeceased by his loving wife Pat of 53 years, his parents Bert and Cora, his brother Ralph, and his sister Dawn. Boyd will lovingly be remembered by his son Terry (Dolores) Morris, his daughter Tracy (Darryl) Schmidt and their children Kira and Bradley His companion of 5 years, Iona and her family, his siblings Nancy, Grace, Donald (Pam) and their children Zachary and Rose all from New Brunswick.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice in memory of Boyd and Pat. A special thanks to the cancer clinic and everyone who helped in his care.

At the request of the family there will be no service, but a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Condolences can be sent to Drakecremation.com

A Gathering to Celebrate the Life of KIM KRAUSHAR

Kim loved a gathering. In his memory we will gather and celebrate his life, and his many interests, tell a few stories and share some memories and refreshments.

Saturday, May 13, 2:00 pm Delta Hotel 540 540 Victoria Street, Kamloops

Celebration of Life for Robert and Rose White

The family of Robert and Rose White wish to invite friends to attend a celebration of life to visit, tell some stories and remember these two amazing people.

Please join us at Heffley Creek Hall on Sunday, June 4, 2023 between 3:005:00 p.m.

Randel Allen Moore

A Memorial Service is being held at 730 Cottonwood Avenue, Kamloops. In the Oak & Willow room on Saturday, June 10, 2023 from 2:00 - 4:00pm.

Please come and join us to honour and celebrate Randy's life.

One Final Gift

Scatter me not to restless winds, Nor toss my ashes to the sea. Remember now those years gone by When loving gifts I gave to thee.

Remember now the happy times The family ties we shared. Don’t leave my resting place unmarked As though you never cared.

Deny me not one final gift For all who come to see A single lasting proof that says I loved... & you loved me.

by DJ Kramer

by Charles L. Mashburn

Lino Bruno Zanier

September 29, 1934 - April 28, 2023

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Lino Bruno Zanier The previous weekend his family shared a special gathering with him. When Lino passed his loving wife Grace was by his side.

Lino is survived by his wife Grace Zanier of 64 years, children Jeannine Jubinville (Rick), Nancy Obayashi (Kevin Gilmore) and Dean Zanier; grandchildren Sean Jubinville (Zetteh), Ross Obayashi (Rowena), Jason Obayashi (Lacey), Tyler Zanier-Hascarl (Jamie), Karina Gilmore and greatgrandchildren Dominic and Kimiko Obayashi, and Leila Fitzpatrick; sister Eva Byres (her children Nicole, Brianna and Ron) and brother Vinio Zanier (Betty and their children Jeanette, Larry and Steven).

Lino was pre-deceased by his parents Luigi and Esther Zanier Trail, BC, grandson Paul Jubinville, Lindsey Gilmore and brother-in-law Doug Byres.

Lino was born in Trail, BC and grew up with a love of sports especially hockey and baseball. He played hockey for the Trail Smoke Eaters. In 1955 he moved to Nakusp, BC to work for Celgar/BC Timber as a heavy duty mechanic and later foreman. Lino obtained many trade tickets. In Nakusp he met Grace Coates and this is where they lived and raised their family

Lino was an active member of the Nakusp Kinsmen Club and Minor Hockey He obtained a Level 5 Hockey Certificate and with these coaching skills supported many youth in Nakusp. Many long lasting friendships were made through these associations.

In 1983 Lino and family moved to Kamloops, BC where he became an instructor in the Mechanical Trades program at Cariboo College (now Thompson Rivers University). Lino was well respected in his field. He retired in 1998 and he and Grace were fortunate to travel extensively

Lino was sadly diagnosed with dementia Alzheimer's later in life. Over his final years he was well cared for by the staff at Kamloops Seniors Village.

We his family and friends bid him a loving farewell to a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Alzheimer's Society of BC or to a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 9, 2023 in the Vista Room at the Coast Kamloops Hotel and Conference Center from 1-4 pm.

Ivan Sambolec

Passed away peacefully at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, on Monday, April 24, 2023. Ivan is survived by his wife, Donna Sambolec; his sons Richard (Monica), Dan (Jessica); and stepsons DJ Lawrence (Melinda) and Drew Lawrence. He will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Jocelyn, Amanda, Christina, Riley, Megan, Rebecca and Jenna. Ivan was predeceased by his sisters Marica, Julika and Danica.

Born December 1, 1933, he grew up in Slovenia and emigrated to Canada in 1957. He moved to Victoria and later Richmond, working for Pittsburgh Paints and 27 years with the Vancouver School Board Workshop. In 1994, Ivan married Donna Lawrence. They lived in Burnaby and Kamloops before moving to New Westminster to be closer to family in 2020.

A curler and avid golfer, Ivan shared his love of sports and the outdoors with his sons. While they were growing up, he took them hiking, camping and fishing throughout BC’s interior Ivan was also an excellent dancer, and enjoyed the waltz in particular He and Donna were long-time members of the BC Swinging Singles Square Dance Club, where they met. A modest and gentle man, who was especially proud and supportive of his grandchildren, Ivan will be dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., on May 26, 2023, at Columbia-Bowell Chapel, 219 6th St, New Westminster, BC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Red Cross in Ivan’s memory

Wayne Tucker

August 13, 1965 - April 3, 2023

Within the sadness of my heart, I regret to announce the sudden passing of my husband Wayne.

Wayne was born in Vernon, BC but spent most of his life growing up in Kamloops attending both A E Perry school and NorKam. He loved sports and as a young guy joined Big Brother ’s ball team and on occasion was able to travel with teams outside of Kamloops. His interest in ball continued throughout his adult life and was constantly asked to play on other teams. When we met he was like a celebrity within the ball community His interest in sports continued throughout his adult life watching lots of games of hockey and football on TV He was an excellent artist and loved to show his talent with making homemade cards etc.

He was a true gentleman and that’s what attracted me to him years ago and to go onto marry him and was honoured to call him my husband. There was a 10 year age difference but we had a special bond and enjoyed so many of the same interests like camping and fishing. He always called me his “blonde bomber” it would’ve been our 15th year of knowing each other on April 27th and our 5th wedding anniversary on July 15, 2023

I was extremely happy that Wayne was part of our family because he was able to travel with us to different places in Alberta, BC, Birch Bay Washington and to Disneyland which brought out the young happy Wayne. When my Mom met him she called him “The Gazelle” as he was a fast runner and would take off in a blur He was honoured to have my Dad as his Dad and in the spring and fall would help my Dad with the yard work Wayne himself had become an excellent pruner and landscaper over the years. He loved my brother Steve and was a proud uncle to my niece and nephew My family will always miss his good qualities and his kind behaviour

He is survived by his loving Mother Edna (Kamloops) brother Karl (Kamloops) brother Brian (Brenda) Vancouver and sister Patricia (Kamloops). His in-laws Brian and June, brother-in-law Steve, niece Jersey and nephew Grayson all of whom he loved very much. I will love you and remember the good times forever my loving best friend, “My Knight” and I’m looking forward when the day comes when we can see each other again in Heaven….Love your “Blonde Bomber” Jolene.

No Service but families to celebrate Wayne’s life and memories in their own way

In Loving Memory of Elizabeth (Betty) Anne Peters (née Johnson)

November 17, 1947 - April 13, 2023

Betty, age 75, passed away at the Royal Inland Hospital on April 13, 2023 after being diagnosed with cancer She was surrounded by her family and with the compassionate care of the medical staff, she departed peacefully

Betty was born in Kamloops, BC to Leonard and Doris Johnson. At an early age she developed a passion for animals and their care. She became involved in 4-H and had a fondness for Hereford cattle, these passions stayed with Betty throughout her life.

Betty married Norman Peters on May 21, 1966 and together they made a formidable team, embarking on many adventures while building a future for themselves and their family

Betty could always be relied upon to provide straight and honest counsel. She was a fixture at the Kamloops Vet Clinic for many years and a lifelong supporter of the North Thompson Fall Fair, Agriculture and 4-H. She also had a passion for Border Collies and quilting.

Betty was predeceased by her parents Len and Doris Johnson and her youngest son, Leonard Dale Peters. She is survived by her husband Norman Peters, son Leroy (Bernadine) Peters, grandchildren Jessica (Kyle), John (Sarah), and great grandson Arthur, brother Glen (Mary) Johnson, nieces, nephews, and adopted grandchildren.

A Social in Betty's memory will be held at the North Thompson Agriplex in Barriere, BC on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 1:00 pm.

Nikola (Nick) Ilic

Nikola (Nick) Ilic of Kamloops, BC passed away peacefully on April 27, 2023, at the age of 75.

He was predeceased by his father Nikola Ilic Sr., his mother Mara Ilic, his twin brother Ante of Croatia, and brothers Martin and Ivan of Croatia. He is survived by the love of his life Tina, son Martin (Adrienne) Ilic, daughter Tanja (Jim) Beeds, daughter Nicole (Alex) Sherwood, and grandchildren Nolan, Mara, Victoria, Sarah, Alistair, and Felix.

Nick will be dearly missed by his wife, children and grandchildren, his siblings Stijepan, Manda (Nico), Mike (Maria), and Tomo (Mary). He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Nick was born on February 10, 1948, in Canak, Lika, Croatia to his recently widowed mother Mara. The youngest of 8 children, Nick grew up on the family farm surrounded by his extended family After he graduated from school, he went on to train as a cabinet maker After learning his trade, he entered the military and completed his service in 1967. He then spent a few years working in construction in Croatia and Germany

In 1973 at the age of 25, Nick made the long journey to Canada, reuniting with his brother Mike He soon found employment in the lumber industry In 1976 Nick married Tina Scalise of Kamloops. They went on to have 3 children: Martin, Tanja, and Nicole. Nick always valued education and encouraged his children to pursue higher learning. He was incredibly proud that all three of his children went on to obtain university degrees.

Having grown up on a farm, Nick was an avid gardener His produce was legendary and often shared amongst family, friends, and neighbours. He liked to think of himself as an amateur arborist and often would be found pruning and grafting fruit trees in his yard and for others. Nick enjoyed fishing and socializing. He loved to play cards and cribbage with friends and family He was a long-time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and would often help with fundraising activities. With his training as a cabinet maker, Nick used his skills to help and advise family and friends on many projects.

Nick retired in 2008 after 35 years of working at Tolko Industries in Heffley Creek. While retired, he embarked on a new venture, striving to be the best Dida (Grandpa) ever He cherished his beloved grandchildren. He loved to teach them about gardening and enjoyed having his many little helpers. Nick would take his grandkids on outings to feed the goats at the park and go to the playground. All the grandkids knew where he kept his stash of treats and said he made the best snacks. Nick was also a man with many hidden talents including braiding his granddaughters’ hair, drawing, and crocheting rugs.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr Mavis Hollman and Dr Thinn Pwint for their compassionate care.

There will be no formal service by request.

If desired, donations may be made to the RIH Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or any charity of your choice.

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.

Angus Vernan Benedict

January 23, 1939 - April 22, 2023

With deep sadness, we announce that Angus passed away on the 22nd of April.

He is survived by the love of his life of 30 years Debbie Bostock, son Glen, daughter Aleda, sisters Joyce Butchard of Owen Sound, ON, Norma Dunlop of Meaford, ON, Beth (Ted) Bumstead of Brantford, ON, mother-in-law Mollie Bostock , sister-in-law Amanda (Bruce) Garrett Mississauga,ON, brotherin-law Brett Bostock,and many nieces and nephews who were a part of ‘Uncle Bud’s’ life.

Angus was born in Meaford, ON and left home at 17 to begin his working life. His work took him from Geco Mines in Manitouwadge, ON, to BC starting at Bethlehem Copper in Logan Lake, followed by Prince George, Kitimat, Tahsis, Valemount, and finally Kamloops where he worked for 20 years for Weyerhaeuser Pulp Mill, retiring as an electrical supervisor in 2000.

Angus was very involved in dedicating his free time to volunteering in the community He was a volunteer driver with the Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope Program and was a member of Lions Clubs International for 50 years. Angus first joined the Ashcroft & District Lions in 1964, followed by Tahsis and North Kamloops Lions Clubs. In 1990 he became a Charter Member of the Kamloops Paddlewheelers Lions Club, and was still very actively involved. He was made a Life Member in 2012 & last fall he was awarded a Lions Clubs International President’s Medal Award of which he was very proud. He loved the fun, fellowship, and service of Lions!

He enjoyed travel, woodwork, and having a good glass of wine with family and friends. Everyone he met always remembered him. His hugs and laughter will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 3rd at 3:00 pm at Schoening Funeral Service, 513 Seymour Street, Kamloops, BC. There will be a time to share stories if desired. The Celebration will be live streamed for those that cannot be there in person at: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/73977

If desired, donations in memory of Angus can be

GIVE LAVISHLY LIVE ABUNDANTLY

By Helen Steiner Rice

By Helen Steiner Rice

The more you give, The more you get, The more you laugh, The less you fret, The more you do unselfishly, The more you live abundantly, The more of everything you share, The more you’ll always have to spare, The more you love, The more you’ll find, That life is good, And friends are kind, For only what we give away, Enriches us from day to day.

All aboard Kamloops Heritage Railway Park

The Kamloops Heritage Railway Park is now open and is welcoming visitors through the end of October.

The facility is committed to preserving the history of the rail industry in B.C. and can be found at 40 Mount Paul Way, under the Red Bridge in Pioneer Park.

The past few years have seen a transformation at the site. Due to the lack of track accessibility because of an increase in coal train traffic through Kamloops, the venerable 2141 Spirit of Kamloops steam train is no longer running, which has seen the society pivot to a new operations model.

“If they haven’t been here since COVID-19, holy cow, everything has changed,” Kamloops Heritage Railway Society general manager Ken Milloy said. “When COVID came, we had to close down and, at the same time, CN Rail negotiated a new coal contract for shipping coal from the Rockies overseas.”

That led to an increase if train traffic on the main line, to 10 runs per day from four runs a day, making it extremely difficult for the Kamloops Heritage Railway Society to access tracks.

Milloy said the 2141 Spirit of Kamloops is being kept in good operating order.

“But generally it just sits there waiting for us to decide what to do,” he said.

While the steam train is not chugging down the tracks as it did in years past, people can now enter the engine’s cab, something that was not permitted when the train was in motion.

“They get to blow the horn, abso-

lutely,” Milloy said.

In the Kamloops Heritage Railway Park, visitors can step back in time to explore life on the rails as either a passenger or rail employee. The three cars on the north side, closest to the river include a restored cattle car, the Pioneer Park car (a 1954 streamlined heavy-duty passenger car) and a fully restored wooden caboose (one of two the railway society owns).

The snow plow is a favourite among kids, Milloy said.

“They absolutely love it, apart from the locomotive,” he said.

The yard also houses another set of rail cars that depict passenger rail travel from the 1900s through to1 960.

“That was the golden era of travel by rail,” Milloy said. “It was the main way of moving. In the ‘60s, it started

to transfer over to personal automobile and, most importantly, the aircraft.”

Inside, the workshop has been transformed into a gallery. Tools and work areas have been hidden behind newly constructed walls, making exploring the new space and taking in the myriad displays safe and enticing.

Milloy said the coming year will see many changes.

“We really want to become an important part of the community,” he said.

Adding a couple of students from Thompson Rivers University has allowed the society to develop new educational programming and increase its social media presence.

The society also recently added a programming coordinator to its team to develop programs tied to

elementary school curriculum and is working with teachers.

“We’re starting to see the benefits of that,” Milloy said, noting plans are in the works to create summer programs for kids, including day and week-long camps in which children and youth can learn about engines and do some experimenting.

“People should look at a membership, especially a family membership,” Milloy said. “It’s very affordable.”

For more information on the Kamloops Heritage Railway Society and its Kamloops Heritage Railway Park, visit kamrail.com or email info@kamloopsrail.com.

ABOUT THE 2141 SPIRIT OF KAMLOOPS

The 2141 has a 62-year history in Kamloops. Originally made in

Kingston, Ont., it hauled freight in the Prairies until 1948.

It was also used on Vancouver Island until it was decommissioned and sat in a yard in Victoria before then-Kamloops mayor Jack Fitzwater convinced the city to buy it in 1961.

It then sat idle in Riverside Park — the heart of a rail town — for decades.

In 1990, a group from Alberta approached the city and asked to purchase the locomotive before a group in Kamloops intervened and restored it locally instead.

Between 1992 and 2002, between 80,000 and 100,000 hours were spent by machinists, welders and other volunteers refurbishing the locomotive to get it running again.

The 2141 ran tours from the old CN station in downtown Kamloops between 2002 and 2019. The seasonal theatrical and historical rides along the rails drew families and tourists as the sound of the steam whistle instantly transported one back in time.

The 2141 last hit the tracks in the Christmas season of 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, and hasn’t run since.

The society did submit a request to CN in 2021 for track time for 2021, but it was rejected as the railway could not guarantee the society track time needed to schedule tours due to the volume of coal trains coming through the city, each of which takes two hours each to clear through Kamloops.

DAVE EAGLES STAFF REPORTER dave_eagles@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops Heritage Railway Park curator Lachlan Gonzales (left) and general manager Ken Milloy are ready to welcome the public to the facility under the Red Bridge next to Pioneer Park, just east of downtown.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

TURTLE DERBY

The VW River Turtle Race was held on Sunday, May 7, on the South Thompson River along Riverside Park, with Volkswagen of Kamloops owner Terry Lowe (above left) dumping the plastic shells into the water. The event’s proceeds help the Kamloops Brain Injury Association. There were two races, each with prizes for first, second and third turtle crossing the finish line. Race 1 winners: Geoff Henderson (first), Bill McLean (second) and Neil Allkins (third). Race 2 winners: A.J. MacKiew (first), Tom Dickinson (second) and Paul Tetreau (third).

ALLEN DOUGLAS PHOTOS/KTW

KSO wraps it up with Ode to Joy

The Kamloops Symphony will conclude its 2022-2023 season with Ode to Joy, a presentation of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony

The 7 p.m. concerts will take place at Sagebrush Theatre on Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13.

The orchestra will be led by music director Dina Gilbert, joined on stage by soprano Suzanne Taffot, mezzo soprano Stephanie Tritchew, tenor Dillon Parmer, baritone Alan Corbishley and the KSO Chorus.

Prior to Beethoven, the concert will begin with Canadian composer Violet Archer’s Poem for Orchestra

Tickets are available online at kamloopslive.ca.

REPAIR CAFE RETURNS

Kamloops Repair Cafe and ElectroRecycle! are cohosting an event at Valleyview Community Hall on Saturday,

Community BRIEFS

May 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Anything you can carry in (except computers and cell phones) is fair game, including lamps, hair dryers, toasters, clothing, bikes and toys.

Repair Cafe volunteers will assess whether your item is reparable or whether its day is done. If there’s hope, Repair Cafe fixers will diagnose what’s ailing your item and teach you how to carry out the repair.

If the item is beyond repair, ElectroRecycle’s popup recycling booth is where to, where staff will offer recycling for small appliances and power tools that have reached the end of their lives.

Note that only smaller electrical items will be

accepted for recycling — computers, TVs, printers and audio equipment will not be accepted for recycling at this event.

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).

To buy tickets, call Jessie Sangha at 250-319-1985 , Gurjit Takhar at 250-8197077, Rajinder Lotay at 250828-6746, Fortune Health Foods at 250-554-1255 or Kamloops Immigrant Services at 778-470-6101.

Grade 1 Aberdeen kid a Rubik’s Cube champion

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

A Grade 1 student from Aberdeen elementary can solve a 3x3 Rubik’s cube in 90 seconds.

Six-year-old Avyaan Maurya started dabbling with the threedimensional puzzle at school during breaks in his Montessori classroom, which consists of students from Grades 1 to 3.

However, his mother, Nidhi Maurya, believes a family trip over spring break solidified her son’s passion for completing the brain teaser in a rapid time.

Between Feb. 1 and March 10, the Maurya family travelled to Lucknow, India, to celebrate Holi and visit family for the first time since the pandemic began.

“And my brother [Ansh Verma] was blessed with twins,” Nidhi said, noting the family hadn’t been able to meet their niece and nephew until now, due to pandemic-related travel restrictions.

The Maurya family spent six

weeks in India, during which time Avyaan brought his 3x3 Rubik’s cube to practise solving the puzzle.

“I just wanted to solve a Rubik’s cube in my life,” Avyaan told KTW, noting he forgot his “uncle’s algorithms” to make a T-shape.

Instead, Avyaan said he solves the puzzle by making a daisy pattern on his cubes to start.

“You start with a daisy and then you make a cross and flip them down,” he said while clicking the puzzles into place rapidly.

Avyaan said math is his favourite subject at school, which is why the Rubik’s cube captured his attention.

“I was trying to solve it in India and my grandma tried to solve it, too, but it was hard, so I watched a video [to learn an algorithm],” he said.

At that time, Avyaan’s uncle, Verma, started to teach his nephew an algorithm to solve a 3x3 Rubik’s cube.

“He helped me in the first step, and the second, but I forgot my uncle’s algorithms,” Avyaan said. “I have an algorithm notebook, but I lost it somewhere in India.”

After successfully completing the 3x3 Rubik’s cube, Avyaan asked his mom to order a 2x2 cube, which he can now complete in 29 seconds. His next goal is to tackle a 4x4 cube with a timer to improve his speed, in hopes of finding a speed-cubing club nearby.

Mom Nidhi said she has yet to find a speed-cubing club with children as young as her son.

“Maybe in Québec,” Avyaan replied.

His teacher, Angelina Thomson, noted Avyaan’s peers are now bringing Rubik’s cubes into the classroom for him to solve, or asking him to show them how to solve the puzzle. In her decade of teaching, Thomson said, she has never seen a student pick up a Rubik’s cube and solve it so quickly.

“My friends asked me for an autograph after I completed it,” Avyaan said. “Everybody in the class.”

“You’re going to be famous,” Aberdeen elementary principal Carol Defehr told Avyaan with a smile. “And you’re going to make Aberdeen famous, too.”

Six-year-old Avyaan Maurya impresses not only his Grade 1 classmates, but the entire school body at Aberdeen elementary with his skill at solving a Rubik’s cube.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

TRU instructor’s latest book is Sophie’sSecrets

BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com

Thompson Rivers University

English professor George Johnson has published his third children’s book, Sophia’s Secrets

“Sophia shares her secrets, from sneaky to toothy to hopeful, in delightful ways, including whispering one to the breeze and dropping another into a puddle, but the best way is to share one with her brother,” Johnson told KTW.

While Johnson spends his time teaching creative writing and mod-

ern literature at Thompson Rivers University, and often produces screenplays and books, children’s books have been a favourite pastime.

His wife, Nina, often co-writes when the family is not busy canoeing, camping or cross-country skiing.

Some of Johnson’s previous children’s books include How Hope Became An Activist, which was a finalist for the Eric Hoffer Awards Montaigne Medal, awarded to authors of thought-provoking books.

It was later translated into

Arabic for international sales.

Johnson also published Marisa and the Mountains, which was a finalist in the Chocolate Lily Book Awards in B.C., as well as a finalist in the San Francisco Writers Conference Content.

In 2021, Marisa in the Mountains was chosen among books included in the Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s Best Books for Kids.

Johnson’s latest book has an intimate connection.

“It’s a personal story for me since the Spanish illustrator, Sara Casilda, used pictures of our

daughter, Sophia, and our son, Ben, in the illustrations — and it’s based on Sophie’s actual childhood secrets, such as when she started loving broccoli,” Johnson said.

“We thought we had made progress until we smelled something weird at the kitchen table. To our surprise, we discovered that for some time she had been stashing broccoli under the table ledge where she sat. Now she has just turned 19 and she fully endorses the project.”

For more information about Johnson, go online to georgemjohnson.com/54-2.

Country Kicker at curling club on May 13

From sweeping to two-stepping, the Kamloops Curling Club will be home to a country music concert on Saturday, May 13.

MPRO4 Entertainment and New Country 103.1 are presenting the Kamloops Country Kicker at the club downtown at Victoria Street and Seventh Avenue.

The night will begin with a basics of country dance lesson at 7:30 p.m., presented by Let’s Move Studio. Following the lesson, Tanner Dawson and his band, featuring Quinn Wingrave, will take the stage from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., covering a range of hits from popular country artists.

DJ Randy will then take over and keep the dance going by spinning more country favou-

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!

rites until 1 a.m.

The Rotary Club of Kamloops Aurora Centennial will be serving up drinks at the bar, with partial proceeds going to the Interior Community Foundation-Aurora Rotary’s Secondary School Bursary Fund. For those needing to refuel their body, Biggz Backyard BBQ will be on site, serving up food all night. Patrons will have a chance to take home some

money with several 50/50 draws happening throughout the night. All proceeds from the raffles will be donated to the Kamloops chapter of the BC SPCA.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at MPRO4.com, at The Horse Barn, at 517 Mount Paul Way in the Mount Paul Industrial Park, or at Stag’s Head Liquor Store, at Hillside Way and Rogers Way in Aberdeen.

Sophie’s Secrets is available online at chapters.indigo.ca.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

FAITH: A PROMISE MADE WILL ONE DAY BE A PROMISE KEPT

Jesus made a promise to his disciples while they were eating the Passover meal.

Judas Iscariot, one of the Lord’s disciples, was going to betray Jesus and made an agreement with the Jewish religious leaders to do so at a convenient time.

It was prophesied, in the Bible , in Psalm 41:9 that Jesus’ own familiar friend would betray him.

It was while a number of injustices were done against Jesus that he spoke the promise of his sure return.

This promise is found in John 14:1-6: “Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.

“Thomas said unto him, ‘Lord, we know not where you are going, and how can we know the way?’ Jesus said unto him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes unto the Father, but by me.’”

This promise to his own

was to be a help to the disciples with all that they were going to go through that night and into the next day, when Jesus was crucified.

Another place where we find the disciples hearing of the second coming of Christ is in Acts 1:9- 11.

Jesus had spoken to the disciples and told them to wait in Jerusalem. Jesus had said that the Holy Spirit was going to come soon and they were to go out into the world, preaching the Gospel.

Jesus was then taken up into Heaven and a cloud carried him out of their sight.

While the disciples watched Jesus disappear from their sight, there were two men who appeared to the disciples.

We believe these two men were actually angels who

Letter to the Editor

brought a message to the disciples.

They said, “You men of Galilee, why stand you gazing up into Heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into Heaven, shall so come in like manner as you have seen him go into Heaven.”

So, once again, the disciples would be encouraged to go into all of the world preaching the glad tidings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In 1 Corinthians 15, there is much written regarding the resurrection of believers. In verses 31 to 38, Paul writes to strengthen the christians in their faith and understanding regarding the mystery he wrote of in verse 31.

Paul wrote, “Behold I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound; and the dead shall be raised incorruptible; and we shall be changed.

For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in

Scripture clarity appreciated

Editor:

I would like to commend KTW for publishing Chris Kempling’s Faith page column of May 3 (‘Focusing on the clarity of Scripture’).

This article clarifies the ancient dispute regarding sola scriptura, as understood by Protestantism, and scripture and tradition, as taught by Roman Catholicism.

As the article outlines, the former

leads to division and disunity, as evidenced by some 30,000 (and growing) Protestant churches in our world today, while the Catholics have maintained unity by fidelity to the scripture and magisterium — one Holy Roman Catholic Church.

Kempling’s column makes this distinction very clear.

Barry Desmond Kamloops

victory; O death, where is your sting? O grave; where is your victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The mystery mentioned in verse 31 is not something that is strange, but rather something that is seen to be new truth given to Paul at the writing of this letter to the assembly in Corinth.

The second coming of Christ at the rapture was not given as a truth until the New Testament was being written.

Believers today are waiting for the return of Jesus to take his own home to heaven.

So we rejoice in the resurrection of Christ, who is the first fruits of God’s harvest and we will be raised because of his death and resurrection.

Do you have this hope?

John Eggers is an elder in the assembly that meets in Westsyde Gospel Hall in Kamloops. KTW welcomes submissions to its Faith page. KTW welcomes submissions to its Faith page. Columns should be about 700 words in length and can be emailed to editor@kamloopsthisweek. com. Please include a very short bio and a photo.

Kamloops Calvary

AC T I V I T Y P RO G R A M S

Programs are cancelled if the minimum numbers are not met

Pro-D Day Fun!

Ages 6-12 1/$10

Join the KMA for a fun filled morning as we highlight one of the artifacts in our permanent collection and create a related craft

Kamloops Museum and Archives

Fri May 19 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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

Nature Walks 1/$5.50

Join our knowledgeable staff on interpretive hikes of the City’s nature parks Bring your questions, sense of adventure, and water on these hikes to learn about the history and the flora and fauna of our parks

Peterson Creek Park

Thur June 1

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Skyline Park

Thur June 15

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Kenna Cartwright Park

Thur June 22

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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

City of Kamloops

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD FOUND ON B7

JOHN EGGERS You Gotta Have FAITH

WEEKLY COMICS

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Aries, pay attention to the smaller details, as those are the ones most often ignored You’ll be highly regarded if you pinpoint any errors in a timely manner

Work to the best of your ability, Taurus Focus on your own work and ser ve as a source of encouragement to those around you who may be experiencing some difficulties

A loved one may be hinting at a few things he or she wants to do with you, Gemini Find the time to make these things happen Let loose and have fun

It could be tempting to hole up in a bookstore or a coffee shop for hours in the days ahead, Cancer However, avoiding cer tain issues is not the way to go Confront them head on

Leo, if you are going to leap, do so with both eyes open; other wise, you may miss some of the dangers along the way Always take the bigger picture into consideration

Virgo, accept that you may be different from most of the people with whom you associate, and that is per fectly fine What makes you unique is what others like about you

Libra, explore all possibilities at work rather than pigeonholing yourself into one role How will you know what things are like if you don’t tr y stuff out?

There’s not much that will bother you this week, Capricorn It seems you have all of your ducks in a row Enjoy this good for tune while it lasts

You may need to roll with the punches this week, Scorpio Things are coming at you at a record pace and it could take a lot of effor t to keep up Learn and adapt as you go

Sagittarius, even though you have been faced with a number of challenges lately, you have managed to come through with your head held high Keep up the progress

Remark able oppor tunities are coming your way, Aquarius All you need to do is sit back and wait for them to star t There is no need to do much legwork in this situation

Big changes can sometimes be scary, Pisces But change is just what you need to do right now to spice things up

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

ACROSS

1. With frequency

4. Little disagreement

8. Rank for Porthos of ‘‘The Three Musketeers’’

13. Speak in Spanish

18. Court entrance?

20. Meaty sauce

21. Polynesian love

22. High grade

23. Instrument anyone can play

25. <i>‘‘Oh, now I understand the significance of the troupe’s performance in ‘Hamlet’!’’</i>

27. W-4 collector, for short

28. Window treatment

30. Singer Rita

31. Touches up, as a tattoo

32. <i> ‘‘I can’t get past this witness box!’’ </i>

35. Like many burns, paradoxically

36. Word that can be represented by a number

37. Part of M.I.T.: Abbr

38. Accidental ‘‘subject’’ of certain snapshots

41. <i>‘‘Watch out for that bully!’’ </i>

47. Lead-in to air or Atlantic

48. Application

49. ‘‘Father of,’’ in Arabic

50. Deborah of ‘‘The Innocents,’’ 1961

51. Bamboozle

53. Passage straight from the heart

55. Gave medicine

58. <i>‘‘Everyone dislikes autumn now!’’ </i>

62. Where artwork is often hung

64. Self-

65. 20,000 drops, pharmaceutically

66. Big name in laptops

K ATIE HALE AND SCOTT HOGAN

67. Euphemistic term for love

68. Lisa with the 1994 No. 1 hit ‘‘Stay (I Missed You)’’

69. Where to see party people out on the floor?

71. Actor Willem

72. Really succeed

76. <i>‘‘Dracula has lived half a millennium!’’ </i>

79. Talk like Foghorn Leghorn

80. Lets out

81. Name that becomes an adjective

119. Diurnal phenomena

120. Acknowledge wordlessly

121. Shape of a fox’s pupil

122. Haven

DOWN

1 Brightly colored food fish

2 Make goo-goo eyes

3 Earth

4 Title of respect

5 R &B ’s LaBelle

6 Over

7 Amped (up), slangily

8 Korean word for cooked rice

9 Permits

10 Find hilarious

11 ‘‘Well, that’s awesome!’’

12 ‘‘Stillmatic’’ rapper

13 Talk smack about

14 Taxing times?

15 Something you shouldn’t pass on

16 ‘‘Diligence is the mother of

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.