Kamloops This Week August 2, 2023

ANNUAL

A16

A KTW EXCLUSIVE THE WORKPLACE INVESTIGATION REPORT INTO KAMLOOPS MAYOR REID HAMER-

JACKSON

“As the Mayor is an elected official, the remedial measures available to the City to address his misconduct are quite limited as compared to a situation where employee-toemployee relationships are involved. In light of this, and in light of the Mayor’s apparent disposition not to accept direction from City staff or Council, I advise that the City should focus its efforts on protecting its employees from bullying, harassment, and other inappropriate behaviour (in keeping with its statutory obligations) as opposed to attempting to educate Mr. Hamer-Jackson (such as through one- on-one Respectful Workplace training).”

—

Honcharuk,

Rhonda Malesku won $35 million in the July 25 Lotto Max draw

MEET CITY’S LATEST MULTI-MILLIONAIRE A10

ON AND OFF THE COURT AND FIELD A19

INVESTIGATION FINDS KAMLOOPS MAYOR VIOLATED COUNCIL CODE OF CONDUCT

any of the complainants unless a third party approved by the complainants is present for the call or meeting.

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson is not currently allowed to meet with city chief administrative officer David Trawin and three other city staff members without a third party present, Kamloops This Week has learned.

This measure, and others, has been implemented after an investigation into complaints of inappropriate conduct at city hall found the mayor violated council’s code of conduct numerous times by disrespecting and/or demeaning three employees who filed complaints against him in February.

The mayor was found to not have violated the code of conduct with respect to a complaint from a fourth employee.

The City of Kamloops hired Vancouver firm The Integrity Group to investigate the allegations. The report, obtained by KTW, is dated May 31 and council first saw it in an incamera meeting on June 13.

As a result of the investigation, the mayor is currently prohibited from making telephone calls to or meeting in person with

In addition, any written communication, including emails, from Hamer-Jackson to the complainants initially goes through a councillor, appointed as a liaison, who is vetting the messages.

The councillor has the authority not to forward communication from the mayor that contains inappropriate or offensive language or material.

The complainants are Trawin and three other city employees.

Investigator Terry Honcharuk found Hamer-Jackson’s conduct violated the code of conduct numerous times with Trawin and a second employee, and once with a third employee. Honcharuk found the mayor’s conduct described by a fourth employee did not violate the code of conduct.

In the report, Honcharuk found all the complainants credible and accepted their evidence.

See LOUD ARGUMENT, A7

Terry

The Integrity Group: Respectful Workplace Solutions

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We have a wide range of different sealers for different applications and use only the highest quality products. We also provide our services to those who have covered their concrete in Sierrastone or Rubberstone Protect It Sealing is the only business authorized by Sun Country Stone to maintain and repair these surfaces. If your Sierrastone or Rubberstone has lost its shine, call us and we can bring that sparkle back for you

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C I T Y PAG E

August 2, 2023

Stay Connec ted @CityofKamloops Kamloops.ca

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

August 15, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

August 21, 2023

2:30 pm - Build K amloops Council Select Committee

August 29, 2023

1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting

August 29, 2023 (Cancelled)

7:00 pm - Public Hearing

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:

• 6th Avenue

Columbia Street to Lansdowne Street

• Tranquille Gateway

Improvements Project

Tranquille Road from south of K amloops BC SPCA to Crestline Street

• Ord Road Water Main Connection Project

Singh Street to 8th Street

• 9th Street Sidewalk Project 9th Street between Renfrew Avenue and Tranquille Road

To stay up to date on road work projects, visit: Kamloops.ca/Kammute

CO N S I D E R A C A R E E R W I T H U S

Join our team of over 700 employees who work in a variety of fulfilling and challenging careers Visit: Kamloops.ca/Jobs

E S I D E N T I A L O R G A N I C WA S T E

COMING TO A CURB NEAR YOU…

The Curbside Residential Organic Waste Collection Program is coming soon to all single - and multi-family households in 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

Organics Car t Deliver y Schedule*

July 5 to 13: Zone 3

July 12 to 18: Zone 4

July 17 to 25: Zone 5

July 24 to August 1: Zone 1

July 31 to August 8: Zone 2

*Deliver y will include a new Solid Waste Collection Guide The date ranges are a general schedule for car t deliver y by zone Car ts may be delivered to some proper ties slightly before or after the scheduled date ranges

Week ly organics collection begins the week of August 21 Garbage and rec ycling will shift to alternating biweek ly collection. Do not use the organics car t until about week before organics collection begins

LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/Organics

2023 FA L L AC T I V I T Y

G U I D E S N E A K P E E K

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

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

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

Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461

For after-hours emergencies, press 1.

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

Kamloops.ca/Voyent

The Activity Guide is published three times per year and offers a wide range of courses and programs for people of all ages and abilities The online version is now available for viewing at Kamloops.ca/Ac tivityGuide

Find your hard copy of the 2023 Fall Activity Guide in next week's edition of K amloops This Week Registration star ts on Tuesday, August 15, at 6:30 am online or at 10:00 am by phone or in person. Swim lesson schedules will be available online by August 4. Physical copies of the schedule will be available at the Tournament Capital Centre and Westsyde Pool and Fitness Centre

Ways to register:

• Go online - to register online, visit: Kamloops.ca/Register. Be prepared! You will need to have an online recreation account before you can register.

• Call us - call our Customer Relations Representatives at 250-828-3500 For more information and to view the guide, visit: Kamloops.ca/Ac tivityGuide

Reducing the amount of water we use helps protect our ecosystems, maintains supply for fire suppression, and reduces the energy used to pump, treat, and distribute water.

Tips to reduce indoor water usage:

• Keep a jug of cool water in the fridge instead of running the tap

• Avoid pouring water down the drain— use it to water plants or fill your pet's dish.

• Install low-flow fixtures in your house, including shower heads, toilets, and taps.

• Only run your dishwasher or washing machine when it is full and be sure to select the shor test run c ycle

For information on current drought levels and more ways you can help conser ve water, visit:

Kamloops.ca/WaterConser vation

SIGN UP FOR KTW’S FREE NEWSLETTER

Google and Meta (parent company of Facebook) have vowed to block Canadian news links and content from their platforms in response to the federal government’s Online News Act (Bill C-18), which requires the companies to pay Canadian media outlets for posting or linking to their news content.

TODAY’S FLYERS

Both Google and Meta have been experimenting with blocking access to Canadian news on their respective sites, as some users in Kamloops and across Canada may have experienced.

This serves as an ideal time to remind readers of KTW to follow us on X (formerly

Twitter) @KamThisWeek and sign up for our free newsletter, emailed to subscribers every weekday morning.

It includes local news you need to know, links to other great reads and an assortment of interesting facts. Sign up now at kamloopsthisweek.com/account/mailinglist

WEATHER FORECAST

August 2: Sunny 30/15 (hi/low)

August 3: Sunny 32/16 (hi/low)

August 4: Cloudy 32/16 (hi/low)

August 5: Sunny 33/17 (hi/low)

August 6: Sunny 33/17 (hi/low)

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Puppy quartet found abandoned

SHEPHERD/BORDER COLLIE CROSS DOGS WERE IN BARNHARTVALE

SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTER sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

Four puppies found abandoned in the Barnhartvale area are expected to be up for adoption in late August.

The three-month-old German shepherd/border collie cross puppies were discovered on a forest service road south of Barnhartvale on July 23.

Kamloops BC SPCA branch manager Daria Evans said the puppies were very skinny and had worms, but were otherwise “not in bad health” and well socialized.

“They’re not at all shy of people and they’re really friendly,” she told KTW

The puppies are recovering well and gaining weight fast. Evans said she hopes they will be ready for adoption in late August following spay and neuter surgeries.

Evans said it is clear the dogs were loved and looked after by someone for most of their lives. She suspects someone was feeling desperate with four extra mouths to

feed and abandoned them in the remote locale.

“It’s hard to say how long they were out there. They couldn’t have been out there for too long. It’s hot, it’s smoky and they would have at least needed access to water,” she said.

They were found two at a time. One pair was taken to a ranch and reported to the Kamloops BC SPCA and the others were brought in directly after they were found the same day.

Evans said anyone needing to surrender their animals should give the BC SPCA as much notice as possible, as most branches are facing long wait lists.

“The best way is to call our animal help line. Call your local SPCA animal centres. If you’re able to travel at all, contact others in the region. The more wait lists you can get onto, the better,” she said.

The BC SPCA animal help line can be reached at 1-855-622-7722 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.,

seven days a week.

Evans said she doesn’t know if the pandemic is the reason the puppies were abandoned, but she said there is definitely a trend in which more people are needing to re-home their animals.

“Certainly more than there has been for several years — particularly dogs and puppies,” she said.

During the pandemic, more people bred dogs and more people bought dogs, but some of those people may now find they cannot keep the animals.

Dogs and puppies found within the City of Kamloops are the city’s bylaws department’s purview, while cats always go to the BC SPCA.

Evans said anyone who finds a stray pet who looks as though it is abandoned or lost should report it to the BC SPCA. She also recommended posting about the pet on Facebook and other social media sites in an attempt to find the owner before bringing in the animal.

This quartet of threemonth-old German shepherd/border collie cross puppies was discovered on a forest service road south of the Barnhartvale on Sunday, July 23.

BC SPCA PHOTO

Wildfire pegged at 4,100 hectares

Updated mapping by the BC Wildfire Service has the Ross Moore Lake wildfire south of Kamloops estimated at 4,157 hectares as of Tuesday afternoon (Aug.1).

Despite the growth and significant columns of smoke rising above the city, the wildfire service said there is no immediate danger to Kamloops, Lac Le Jeune or major highways. The lighting-sparked

fire was discovered about 24 kilometres south of Kamloops on July 21 and has moved to within 10 kilometres of the southern boundary of the city. It is about 3.5 kilometres from La Le Jeune.

The BC Wildfire Service said forecast winds, increased temperature and low relative humidity will continue to contribute to elevated fire behaviour within the perimeter of the blaze, primarily on the south and west flanks.

The fire will likely continue to lead to smoky skies and air quality advisories in the Kamloops area for the next several days.

One structure has been confirmed to have been destroyed, that being a recreation-type building. There are no evacuation orders or alerts within city limits, but there are some within the ThompsonNicola Regional District, all of which can be seen by going online to tnrd.ca.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

Massive columns of smoke can be seen rising from the Ross Moore Lake wildfire south of Kamloops.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Loud argument sparked probe

LOCAL NEWS Loud argument sparked probe

The report sheds more light on a number of reports KTW and other local media outlets have published during the mayor’s first nine months in office.

There are also a series of incidents in the report that are also referenced in the legal response Coun. Katie Neustaeter submitted to the defamation lawsuit filed against her by Hamer-Jackson. The mayor is suing Neustaeter in connection with comments she made about him on behalf of council in March.

Hamer-Jackson was informed of the investigation on Feb. 23 and interviews with the complainants were completed by investigator Honcharuk in early April. The mayor, however, refused to be interviewed and did not defend himself against the claims.

Numerous emails were exchanged between Honcharuk, Hamer-Jackson and his personal lawyer, David McMillan, who said it was “an absurd precondition” for Hamer-Jackson to agree to be interviewed before viewing details of the allegations. McMillan said Hamer-Jackson preferred to deal with accusations of such a nature in a court of law.

According to the report, the impetus for the investigation was a shouting match on Jan. 20 between Hamer-Jackson and a city councillor in the mayor’s office. The argument was reportedly so loud it could be heard elsewhere in city hall, leading a receptionist to ask if she should call 911.

The argument sparked an internal investigation that revealed prior incidents had occurred, but had not been reported. As a result of the investigation, it was determined an employee should be transferred from city hall to avoid potential psychological impact.

On Jan. 23, council, in a meeting with Trawin to discuss the

incident, decided it would no longer have one-on-one meetings in city facilities with Hamer-Jackson to prevent similar incidents from occurring.

On Jan. 25, Trawin emailed all of council, advising that he and human resources director Colleen Quigley attempted to meet with Hamer-Jackson and, when they entered the room, the mayor had a friend in his office to take notes.

plainants, is present.

The report sheds more light on a number of reports KTW and other local media outlets have published during the mayor’s first nine months in office.

The advice from Honcharuk also recommended the city direct all written communication from the mayor to any of the complainants to be first vetted by an appointed city councillor.

There are also a series of incidents in the report that are also referenced in the legal response Coun. Katie Neustaeter submitted to the defamation lawsuit filed against her by Hamer-Jackson. The mayor is suing Neustaeter in connection with comments she made about him on behalf of council in March.

Reached by KTW for comment on the report, Hamer-Jackson described it as false and containing innuendo.

incident, decided it would no longer have one-on-one meetings in city facilities with Hamer-Jackson to prevent similar incidents from occurring.

According to the report, Trawin said it was unacceptable to have a friend present while they discussed city business. The mayor then said he was willing only to meet with director Quigley and not Trawin.

“This is getting very difficult for me to do my job,” Trawin wrote in the email to council.

Hamer-Jackson was informed of the investigation on Feb. 23 and interviews with the complainants were completed by investigator Honcharuk in early April. The mayor, however, refused to be interviewed and did not defend himself against the claims.

In February, on the advice of Quigley and following a council resolution, the municipality retained The Integrity Group to conduct a workplace investigation.

Honcharuk advised the city implement a policy restricting the mayor’s communication with the complainants.

The policy directs that there be no telephone calls or face-to-face meetings between the mayor and any of the complainants unless a third-party, approved by the com-

“I think it’s a complete waste of taxpayer dollars is what I think,” Hamer-Jackson said, adding he has not seen the full report, only “partial things” he cannot discuss and “a little bit” pertaining to its recommendations.

He said he would like to view a full, unredacted version, noting he has asked corporate officer Maria Mazzotta for a copy and is awaiting an answer.

He said he is abiding by the recommendations of the report relating to communications restrictions.

Numerous emails were exchanged between Honcharuk, Hamer-Jackson and his personal lawyer, David McMillan, who said it was “an absurd precondition” for Hamer-Jackson to agree to interviewed before viewing details of the allegations. McMillan said Hamer-Jackson preferred to deal with accusations of such a nature in a court of law.

According to the report, the impetus for the investigation was a shouting match on Jan. 20 between Hamer-Jackson and a city councillor in the mayor’s office. The argument was reportedly so loud it could be heard elsewhere in city hall, leading a receptionist to ask if she should call 911.

The argument sparked an internal investigation that revealed prior incidents had occurred, but had not been reported. As a result of the investigation, it was determined an employee should be transferred from city hall to avoid potential psychological impact.

When asked by if not being able to communicate directly with the city CAO has affected his ability to do his job as mayor, HamerJackson said it has, explaining he has had to direct questions for Trawin through deputy mayor for July Nancy Bepple and has not been getting answers.

On Jan. 23, council, in a meeting with Trawin to discuss the

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On Jan. 25, Trawin emailed all of council, advising that he and human resources director Colleen Quigley attempted to meet with Hamer-Jackson and, when they entered the room, the mayor had a friend in his office to take notes. According to the report, Trawin said it was unacceptable to have a friend present while they discussed city business. The mayor then said he was willing only to meet with director Quigley and not Trawin.

“This is getting very difficult for me to do my job,” Trawin wrote in the email to council.

In February, on the advice of Quigley and following a council resolution, the municipality retained The Integrity Group to conduct a workplace investigation.

Honcharuk advised the city implement a policy restricting the mayor’s communication with the complainants.

The policy directs that there be no telephone calls or face-to-face meetings between the mayor and any of the complainants unless a third-party, approved by the com-

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plainants, also all written the plainants appointed on described ing of taxpayer Hamer-Jackson has “partial and recommendations. full, has Mazzotta ing recommendations relating restrictions. able the ity to Jackson has Trawin July been

KAMLOOPS MAYOR REID HAMER-JACKSON

From A1

KAMLOOPS MAYOR REID HAMER-JACKSON

OPINION

email:

Maybe YKA is a connector airport

Since I moved to Kamloops from the Lower Mainland in 2005, there have been countless new airline routes introduced with much fanfare — to Seattle, to Vancouver, to Edmonton thrice (if my math is correct), to Toronto, to Whitehorse.

Alas, each and every one aborted takeoff well before a consistent schedule could be established.

(Granted, the Whitehorse route earlier this year consisted of one round-trip flight in the Victoria Day long weekend to gauge interest in such travel.)

The latest grounding involves Flair Airlines’ twice-weekly Kamloops-Edmonton route, which lasted all of 22 flights over 11 days before the discount carrier announced it will cancel the service after the last flights on Sept. 6.

The problem has been the same for the past 18 years — not enough passengers to fill the seats.

There has been some criticism of Flair for using Boeing 737 Max-8 planes that seat 189 passengers, aircraft that are much larger than the 75-seat Q400 planes West Jet and Air Canada fly in and out of the airport.

Flair’s flights to and from Edmonton have been half full, if that, but WestJet tried twice to establish direct service from Kamloops to the Alberta capital with smaller planes and failed.

Perhaps it is not the fault of the airlines, or the managing director of the airport, or the Kamloops Airport Society, or the passengers.

Maybe YKA is what it is — a

decent, small airport that works well to connect people to Calgary and Vancouver, where they can fly direct to almost anywhere in the world.

Should it be surprising that international airports within a couple of hours or so in Kelowna and Abbotsford, with much larger population bases, have greater options in destinations?

Residents have been told to “use it or lose it” each time a new route is introduced in Kamloops. But if most people have no desire, or need, to go to Edmonton, should they be expected to “use it”?

I assume market research has been done to better ascertain where people in the Kamloops region wish to travel. Although it is anecdotal, when KTW reported in Flair’s decision to cancel the Edmonton route, readers were quick to list destinations they want to see connected to YKA.

These include cheaper fares to Vancouver and flights to myriad sun spots, including Las Vegas, Phoenix, Los Angeles and Mexico.

VANDALISM FUND

The provincial government has created a $10.5-million fund from which small businesses can apply for money to help pay for vandalism repairs and prevention.

Business owners will be able to apply to up to $2,000 for the cost of repairs or $1,000 for vandalism prevention. It will begin in the fall and will be retroactive to Jan. 1, 2023.

Broken glass and graffiti cleaning are eligible under the vandalism repairs criteria and security cameras or gates are eligible for prevention funding.

While the fund has to be welcome news to small business owners facing repeated damage and rising insurance premiums, does the fact this fund has been created not speak to the ineptitude of our governments (both provincial and federal) and the justice system?

The existence of the fund itself is a tacit admission from the provincial government that it has failed in its job to protect business

owners from such attacks.

It is also evidence the provincial and federal laws with respect to prolific offenders — the so-called catch-and-release system — is in dire need of reform immediately.

THE RENTAL CRISIS

A rental apartment building will rise in North Kamloops, on the empty lot that formerly housed Red Sea Auto.

There will be dozens of units available for rent in a city desperate for more housing.

That is good news. But what will the monthly rents be and who will be able to afford them?

Rental rates across the city are atrociously high and we are indeed at a crisis point.

We are told by the experts that more housing should result in rental rate relief, based on the law of supply and demand.

Yes, we all understand the law of supply and demand, but it can also be rightly labelled the law of greed.

Simply because there are fewer rental units than there are people needing shelter should not be an excuse for rental rates to rise into the stratosphere.

Which is why I am excited to hear about the City of Kamloops’ new Community Land Trust, which aims to take the price of land out of the cost of development.

Scan some real estate listings and you will see bare lots selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Imagine if the city could secure that land and build muchneeded housing?

Theoretically, the listing price or rental rates should be much lower than it is now.

Imagine what could be developed at a site such as the largely unused parcel of provincial government land that stretches south from the corner of Columbia Street and Sixth Avenue downtown?

editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

Twitter: @ChrisJFoulds

OPINION

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LET VOTERS DECIDE WITH INFORMATION

Editor:

Re: (‘ Build Kamloops select committee struck, but mayor rejects invitation to be involved in planning process ,’ July 5):

Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson got this one right. His perception of council feeding council could not be more accurate.

There is an insatiable appetite for some at the city to build a performing-arts centre. The strategy seems to be “Let’s put together a marketing/communication team to discuss how to get to a ‘yes’ vote on referendum day”.

There are already some caveats in the current proposal that were not there in 2020, such as a pool, a curling rink

STOP WATERING KAMLOOPS LAWNS

Editor:

and new ice sheets, which may make such a vote more palpable for taxpayers.

It is very clever.

Without the sports community, the city doesn’t get arts investment and vice versa

I am neither for nor against any of these projects and will decide when the information is available.

However, if voters don’t get an impartial view from those involved, including politicians, there will certainly be skepticism, which could lead to disappointment for some city staff.

Ray Jolicoeur Kamloops

We all know this has been a very dry year and we are almost at drought level 5 in the Kamloops region.

City staff are very slowly getting around to announcing water restrictions. The mayor has asked us to “take shorter showers and water lawns less”.

Yet while farmers around us struggle to water their fields and crops, and while the lower water levels are leading to dangerously high temperatures for

fish, we are still allowed to water our lawns and wash our vehicles.

We all know our love of lush green lawns requires a lot of water use. Just check your quarterly utility water statements and it’s easy to see that we use a lot more water in the summer than in the other seasons..

This is mostly for watering lawns.

Indoor consumption doesn’t really change throughout the seasons. If you have travelled outside of the desert-

like Interior of B.C. to the lush Coast, you will have noticed places such as Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo all have total bans in place for lawn watering. Yes, their lawns turn brown in the summer, but they all green back up once it rains.

Let’s make a real difference and stop lawn watering altogether. Changing times require changing attitudes and practices.

Klaus Mey, Kamloops

COUNCIL SHOULD REVIEW REQUEST

Editor:

I was disappointed and somewhat surprised to learn that Kamloops council declined to support the Kamloops Islamic Association’s proposal to buy city property so it can relocate the Ayesha mosque from Knutsford.

For a number of years, the association has been looking for land in the city.

As its application stated, the current location in

TALK BACK Q&A:

WE ASKED:

you

Knutsford is inadequate in several ways, including inaccessibility and space limitations.

The location sought at McGill and Bunker roads seems ideal for many reasons, especially given its proximity to Thompson Rivers University and its hundreds of Muslim students and staff.

The Islamic Association is a registered charity and will continue with its chari-

table work and increase its outreach programs, not just for Muslims, but for the entire community.

The association is not seeking any financial help from the city. Rather, it proposes a sale similar to the one between the City of Prince George and the mosque there.

Yet Kamloops council declined to even move a motion to refer the submission and request to city staff

If you rent in Kamloops, how much do you pay per month in rent alone?

for review.

A few years ago, I co-led a series of workshops with leaders and members of the Ayesha mosque and Kamloops United Church. The series was well received by all in both the Muslim and Christian communities and led to ongoing relationships I hope the request will be reviewed.

Rev. Dawne Taylor Kamloops

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

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

GOT A VAN OR A TRUCK?

Lottery winner plans new homes

Meet Kamloops’ latest multi-millionaire.

Rhonda Malesku is the lucky person who bought a lottery ticket worth $35 million.

Malesku, born and raised in Kamloops, purchased the Lotto Max ticket at Walmart on Hillside Drive while shopping for beach towels and didn’t anticipate she would match all seven numbers to split the $70-million jackpot with a winning ticket buyer in Alberta.

Malesku was at home when she discovered her massive windfall the morning after the July 25 draw.

Upon checking the winning numbers online, she shared the news with her husband, who was in the backyard doing yard work at the time.

“I let out a huge scream and kept saying, ‘I won $35 million dollars!” Malesku said.

“I opened up the back door and started screaming it outside to my husband, Sam, and we both started shaking. I was shouting so loud with excitement that the neighbours came out of their houses because they thought something was wrong.”

Malesku then called her daughter, who was getting ready for work at the time.

“I called my daughter and

started screaming it all over again to her,” Malesku said.

“She immediately dropped everything and came over. We couldn’t even get ready this morning because we were vibrating with excitement and had to help each other put on our makeup.”

Malesku said she has always wanted to design her dream home — and now she can tackle the dream. She also wants to do the same for her son and daughter.

She said she will also gift some of the windfall to other family members and plans to

purchase a travel trailer and truck and travel to the East Coast with her loved ones.

“I’m just absolutely blown away,” she said.

Lotto Max is a twice-weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) draw in which players choose seven numbers between 1 and 50. The odds of matching all seven numbers is one in 33.3 million.

The winning numbers in the July 25 draw were 15, 16, 17,18, 43, 44 and 48. The bonus number, which applies to secondary prizes, was 50.

The prize equals the largest ever won by a lottery ticket in

Recent Hits

Kamloops.

On June 23, 2021, when local resident Gary Hill won $35 million in that date’s Lotto Max draw, splitting the $70-million jackpot with one other lucky ticket buyer in Ontario. Hill purchased his winning ticket from McGoo’s Smokes N Stuff in Northills Centre in North Kamloops.

DID YOU KNOW?

The retailer that sold the winning ticket — the Walmart lottery kiosk — will receive $35,000 from BCLC as part of its seller’s prize program.

Rhonda Malesku won a life-changing $35 million in the July 25 Lotto Max draw. Malesku, born and raised in Kamloops, purchased the ticket at Walmart on Hillside Drive while shopping for beach towels. The seven numbers she picked matched all seven digits drawn. Malesku shares the $70-million jackpot with the owner of a winning ticket in Alberta.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

City of Kamloops

N O T I C E O F D I S P O S I T I O N

Pursuant to Sec tions 26(3) and 94 of the Community Char ter, the City of K amloops (the “City ”) has authorized entering into a Licence of Occupation with the K amloops Per formance Cycling Centre (the “Licensee”) of approximately 4280m2 of vacant land described as par t of road on Plans 34043 and EPP100982 and having a civic address at 2625 Trans- Canada Hwy West (the “Proper ty ”) to operate a park ing lot for the Pineview Recreational Trail Network

The City will Licence the Proper ty to the Licensee for the Term of Ten (10) years for $10.00.

For more information, please contac t Michael Doll, Green Spaces and Natural Resources Super visor, at 250-828-3570.

BUSKERS BLEW THEM AWAY

The annual Kamloops International Buskers Festival wowed thousands of visitors to Riverside Park this past weekend. Performers included The Street Circus (above) and Rockabilly Joe (left).

To see more photos from the festival, go online to kamloops thisweek.com and click on the Community tab.

Affordable housing the focus of city land trust

municipalities, non-profit agencies, park boards, school districts and universities.

Kamloops council has established the Kamloops Community Land Trust Foundation as a way of trying to address the city’s long-term housing needs.

The city will, via the land trust foundation, work to preserve, acquire and provide land and develop new partnerships to support housing development.

“Land trusts take the land price out of the cost of development, reducing the end price of the home,” said Marvin Kwiatkowski, the city’s development, engineering and sustainability director. “This model allows the land trust to prioritize the community’s long-term housing needs and work with community partners to fill the gaps.”

The Kamloops Community Land Trust Foundation will be a community-owned and controlled organization and will focus on providing and preserving housing options that are not currently pursued by existing organizations in the community — in particular, for those with low to moderate incomes, including seniors. Such housing types include duplexes, townhouses, fourplexes and multiplexes.

An inventory of bare land and under-developed sites in Kamloops will be undertaken, with a focus on land controlled by faith-based organizations, federal and provincial governments, First Nations, health authorities, legions,

The Kamloops Community Land Trust Foundation is not affiliated with any social agencies, nor will it provide supportive housing.

David Freeman, the city’s real estate manager, said a board will be assembled.

“We’re looking for the best people in the community to assist us with a problem,” he said. “If those members have experience in these chosen fields, I think that would be a benefit.”

Freeman pointed to the soon-to-be demolished Northbridge Hotel in North Kamloops as a “perfect example” of a project that would fit the land trust mandate.

The city purchased the notorious hotel and an adjacent property in September 2021 for $7.15 million and has since sold the adjacent parcel of land to BC Housing, on which an affordable housing complex will rise. The hotel property will be redeveloped.

To learn more about the Kamloops Community Land Trust Foundation, visit LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/LandTrust.

Meanwhile, the city has applied for $15.6 million from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Accelerator Fund, which has $4 billion in funds available to municipalities across Canada to incentivize initiatives that remove barriers to housing supply, accelerate housing supply growth and support community development.

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

ALLEN DOUGLAS PHOTOS/KTW

Mounties probe shooting and sudden death

Inland Hospital, where she remains.

A 40-year-old Kamloops woman remains in serious condition in hospital after being injured in a shooting in North Kamloops on Monday, July 31.

Kamloops Mounties are asking anyone who may have been a witness to a shooting to call police.

Just before 5:30 p.m. on Monday, police were called to Schubert Drive near Richmond Avenue to help paramedics.

Officers arrived to find the woman suffering from gunshot injuries. She was taken to Royal

Mounties, with the help of police dog services, flooded the area in an effort to find the suspect, who was described as a white man with a shaved head who was wearing black shorts and a white tank top.

No suspect was located and police continue their search.

“At this point, we believe the victim and assailant were known to each other and this appears to have been a targeted shooting,” Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley said in a release.

The area of Schubert Drive and Richmond Ave

remained closed to traffic on Tuesday afternoon as officers continued to canvass the area for witnesses, video surveillance and evidence. Police anticipated the scene would be cleared by Tuesday evening.

Police are asking that anyone in the area of Schubert Drive and Richmond Ave between 4:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. on Monday and who has information to call police at 250828-3000 and reference file 2023-27542.

This appeal extends to anybody who was walking through the trail system, on the beach or on the roadway.

Monday’s shooting was the second on the North Shore since May 21, when a woman in her 30s was shot during an incident in a townhouse at 800 Valhalla Dr. in Brocklehurst. She was on life support and died from her injuries on May 26. Police continue to investigate that file.

• Meanwhile, Kamloops RCMP say a suspicious sudden death is the reason

behind Tuesday’s lengthy closure of Paul Lake Road just west of Highway 5.

At 12:31 a.m. on Tuesday, Kamloops RCMP received a report of a sudden death in the 600-block of the road.

Officers responded and found the body of a man in the area under what they call suspicious circumstances.

Staff Sgt. Jason Smart,

who leads the BC RCMP Southeast District major crime unit, said the death appears to be an isolated incident.

Paul Lake Road was closed to traffic on Tuesday while investigators worked at the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Southeast District major crime unit tip line by calling 1-877-987-8477.

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KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

From left: Marsala Fusion Meat co-owner Jason Nijjer, staff member Cheyenne Rossetti, co-owner Kim Nijjer and staff member Maddin Lidder are welcoming customers to the store at Parkcrest Avenue and 12th Street in Brocklehurst.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

Kamloops’ sister city visitors return to Japan

SEAN BRADY STAFF

sbrady@kamloopsthisweek.com

A delegation from Kamloops’ sister city of Uji, Japan, has left the Tournament Capital following a two-day visit to mark the 30-year anniversary of the two cities’ relationship.

Kamloops’ first Punjabi meat shop now open

Masala Fusion Meats is the first and only Punjabi meat shop in Kamloops

It offers a fusion of authentic Punjabi marinades as it specializes in infusing traditional Punjabi flavours into a variety of meats, including chicken, lamb, goat, fish and beef. Each marinade is crafted using a secret recipe of ethnic masalas.

“Our mission at Masala Fusion Meats is to bring the vibrant and bold flavours of Punjab to Kamloops,” owner Jason Nijjer said. “We believe that by combining traditional Punjabi marinades with the highest quality meats, we can offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience to our customers.”

The store — in the space vacated by a laundromat in the strip mall at Parkcrest Avenue and 12th Street in Brocklehurst, across from Chances Casino — has a wide selection of Punjabi-inspired family recipes and the rich tapestry of flavours for which the Punjab is known.

“They’re all infused, not just marinated, but they’re infused into the bone with our special Punjabi masala (herbs, spices) and marinades,” Nijjer said, explaining the difference between marinades and infusion.

“You know, sometimes, it looks great.

You’ve got this great marinade that’s coated on the outside, but you take a bite and the inside is just, you know, it’s bland, where the flavour hasn’t worked itself all the way back. We try to make sure we do it from the inside out, using the special recipes that have been in the family for decades.”

Is there a market for the store and its offerings in Kamloops outside of the Punjabi community?

“I would think there is, 100 per cent,” Nijjer said. “I’ve got a lot of friends outside the Punjabi community that are very excited to see this happen because, for example, they go to an East Indian restaurant and try those types of ethnic foods. Now they can get it from us as fresh as it can be and take it home and throw it right on the grill.”

The team at Masala Fusion Meats has spent months preparing for the opening.

“We have poured our passion and dedication into every aspect of Masala Fusion Meats, from the selection of ingredients to the creation of unique marinades,” Nijjer said.

“We can’t wait to share our love for these authentic flavours with the people of Kamloops.”

Masala Fusion Meats can be found on Facebook at “Masala Fusion Meats” and on Instagram @masalafusionmeats. The phone number is 250-312-MEAT (6328).

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Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson, along with Coun. Bill Sarai and city staff, saw the group off at the Kamloops Airport on Saturday afternoon (July 29).

The delegation toured through areas of Kamloops, meeting dignitaries and visiting a few locales, including Monte Creek Winery, the McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre and Fresh is Best salsa company.

Speaking to KTW through a translator, Uji Mayor Atsuko Matsumura said the visit has been a surprising one in which the Japanese delegation met a number of people in the city, including MP Frank Caputo and Tk’emlúps Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir.

Regular visits between the sister cities were put on hold during the pandemic, so on this first visit since restrictions were lifted, the two cities marked their 30-year anniversary of the agreement.

Then-Kamloops mayor Phil Gaglardi formalized the sister city pact on July 1, 1990.

Matsumura told KTW she sees the visit as a “restart” following the pandemic and looks forward to future agreements between Kamloops and Uji.

The visit was the first for Matsumura, who remarked on

the similarities — and differences — of the sister cities.

Matsumura said Kamloops and Uji certainly have rivers and mountains in common, but the size is different.

Kamloops is much larger in area, whereas Uji has a larger population.

Uji is located next to Kyoto in the Kansai region in southern-central Honshu, the main island of Japan.

The Japanese city has a land area of about 70 square kilometres. Kamloops is about four times larger, with the city covering an area of about 300 square kilometres.

The population of Uji, however, nearly doubles that of Kamloops, with 180,000 people — in line with Japan’s population density across the nation’s islands.

A long history is another commonality for the two cities. Matsumura said Uji is featured in The Tale of Genji, a 12th-century novel and a classic work of Japanese literature, drawing comparisons to First Nations in the Kamloops region.

“But we have similar stuff

and different stuff and we can learn from each other. So please, come to Uji City and you can see our similar and different stuff in the future,” Matsumura said through her translator.

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson said it was a pleasure to meet the delegation.

The mayor told KTW he hopes the sister city agreement will lead to more travel between the two communities.

“Tourism is huge. I think they’ve got 180,000 people, we’ve got 100,000,” HamerJackson said. “So maybe we can get a few of them coming our way and us going that way.”

Hamer-Jackson said there are no ski resorts near Uji, suggesting tourists come to Kamloops and Sun Peaks to tackle the slopes.

“To go skiing, it’s a four- or five-hour drive for them. It’s only a nine-hour flight [to Kamloops], so guess what?

You can be in Sun Peaks in only a few hours more,” he said.

REPORTER

Uji Mayor Atsuko Matsumura (left) and Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson at Kamloops Airport on July 29. SEAN BRADY/KTW

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

EYE ON COMMUNITY

CHARITY CALENDAR

Share It Forward with Save-On

If you have a photo of a charity donation, a grand-opening picture or other uplifting images, email them to editor@kamloopsthisweek.com, with “eye on community” in the subject line.

UPCOMING

The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run For the Cure is ready for the 2023 event and organizers are ready to let people know of the ways to get involved. Organizers will have information booths at various locations throughout the city this summer, leading up to the Oct. 1 event.

The society is setting up its blue and pink information booths to share registration information for the October run, offering trivia information on breast cancer facts and identifying where proceeds from the event will go within the community.

There will be an information booth in the Save-On-Foods Fun Zone in Riverside Park during the Kamloops Daybreak Rotary Ribfest from Aug. 11 to Aug. 13. There will also be an information booth at the Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market, downtown in the 200-block of St. Paul Street, on Sept. 2. For more information, follow the CIBC Run For the Cure social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

KAMLOOPS AMBASSADORS 2023 GALA GALS: On July 8, the Kamloops Ambassador Society held its 2023 Election Gala at Sagebrush Theatre. Ten candidates participated, with the new Kamloops Ambassador Team consisting of (from left) Cassie McNutt (lavender dress), Janessa Rushka (teal blue dress) and Violet Denomey (burgundy dress). Saying farewell are 2022 Ambassadors Alexis Cloet (red), Sarah Brouwer (navy) and Tiffany Friesen (gold). Other award winners from July 8 included Ella Matchim (friendship), Mikey Friesen (butterfly), Janessa Rushka (speech), Lauren Reynolds (knowledge of Kamloops) and Janessa Rushka (sponsor presentation). The 2024 candidate call will take place in December. The Kamloops Ambassador Society comes from a tradition that is almost 100 years old. What began as Dominion Day Carnival Queen in the 1920s evolved into Carnival Queen, Miss Spoolmak and Miss Kamloops in 1952, with Peggy Kelly holding the title. In 2021, the program transitioned into three equal Kamloops Ambassadors representing the city as a team. Meanwhile, a former Miss Kamloops has been named a 2023 British Columbia Ambassador. Cassidy Jean, who held the title of Miss Kamloops in 2017, successfully competed in the B.C. Ambassador program on July 28 and July 29 in Cowichan Lake. Jean joins the other two members of the 2023 team: Cowichan Lake’s Brooklyn Kruk and White Rock’s Adiba Chowdhury.

PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR KAMLOOPS COMMUNITY

A Powwow Story for the Powwow weekend

APowwow Story was inspired by a trip English as a second language teacher Mary Bertucci took to the Kamloopa Powwow in 2019 with her First Nations husband, son and family members.

Mary Bertucci is mom to two Indigenous children. She lives in the Fraser Valley with husband, Jeremy, a member of the Nak’azdli Whut’en band in Northern B.C.

Bertucci teaches English as a second language to new immigrants and refugees.

Bertucci said she wrote A Powwow Story to give beginner students and teachers more choice when it comes to reading in English.

Being from an English-language background, Bertucci said she developed the book for the grades 3/4 level and for English as a second language readers with simpler sentence structure that is suitable for higher beginner to intermediate level learners.

“I always thought we needed more choices for this kind of level of learner,” Bertucci said. “I know there are so many great Indigenous stories out there by Indigenous authors for kids, which I’m always a fan of.”

Bertucci has been teaching for almost 20 years, with most of her students being adults.

“I was trying to create something that would be interesting and local and culturally diverse for this particular level — that very beginner to intermediate level,” Bertucci said.

“For language learners and for kids, they need some visuals to help keep them going and to help them understand the content.

“The illustrator [Chloe Bluebird

Mustooch] was so great. I took some concepts and I tried to get her to bring those to life because it’s a lot of new cultural content, especially if you’re not familiar with Indigenous cultures.”

Bertucci’s first visit to a powwow was in Squamish, a trip she made with her husband.

“I was just blown away. As an observer, because I’m not Indigenous myself, I loved the drums. I loved the regalia. It was so stunning and so different,” Bertucci said. “I could really feel the community element and the joy.”

Her next powwow was the Kamloopa event at Tk’emlúps, which she discovered after spotting a roadside sign advertising “the biggest powwow on the West Coast.”

Packing up the family in the car,

Bertucci headed to Tk’emlúps with her husband’s cousin and niece, before joining their auntie in the Tk’emlúps Powwow Arbour.

“It was such a great time. We’re all kind of learning together about culture because my husband hasn’t had a ton of exposure himself,” she said. “We wanted to bring our son and just have that as a family experience.”

Although the book is not based on a true story, Bertucci said it does reflect her own experiences.

“I’d definitely say it’s inspired by it. It came from our family time. If I wouldn’t have had that experience, there’s no way I could write what I did,” Bertucci said.

She said the book’s authentic feel is a result of collaboration with members of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc community.

Contributors such as Bernice Jenson, a cultural advisor, powwow dancer and traditional knowledge sharer, and Tk’emlúps elder and traditional knowledge keeper Diena Jules helped Bertucci navigate cultural perspectives and make connections within the community.

“The best part of the writing journey was the collaboration that happened between so many people,” Bertucci said.

She said the idea of writing something with Indigenous content “was a really big task” for her, since she is not Indigenous.

“I wanted to do it as well as I could. I knew from day one that collaboration was going to be part of it,” Bertucci said. “It definitely has changed my life.”

For more information on A

POWWOW THIS WEEKEND

The 42nd annual Kamloopa Powwow takes place from Friday, Aug. 4, to Sunday, Aug. 6, with about 500 dancers and drummers from Canada and the U.S. visiting the Tk’emlúps Powwow Arbour.

Vendors open at 8:30 a.m. each day, with events starting at noon on Friday, at 11:45 a.m. on Saturday and at 11 a.m. on Sunday.

There are myriad events, including the Princess Pageant and intertribal dance and drum competitions, that will be held through the day and night, with colours being retired each day at midnight.

Powwow Story, go online to marybertucci.ca. The book is also available via booksellers, including online at chapters.indigo.ca.

DAVE EAGLES STAFF REPORTER dave_eagles@kamloopsthisweek.com

Mary Bertucci is author of

A Powwow Story, inspired by her family’s visit to the Kamloopa Powwow.

ANDREA TREVIO PHOTOS

MARKETING AN ANNIVERSARY

The Kamloops Regional Farmers’ Market celebrated its 45th anniversary this past Saturday, with a large crowd visiting the market, downtown in the 200-block of St. Paul Street. The Saturday market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through Oct. 28, while the Wednesday market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through Oct. 25.

You, too, can help H20 for Help cause

The Lighthouse Project’s H20 for Hope initiative is inviting Kamloopsians to donate bottled water that is handed out to the city’s homeless population.

The Lighthouse Project is a volunteer street outreach program in Kamloops. Coordinator

Dan Lal said H20 for Hope is a new opportunity for the Kamloops community to make a difference on city streets, especially the heat continues this summer.

Volunteers head out from The Lighthouse Church, downtown at 702 Columbia St., every Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Drop-off locations for donated water are at The Lighthouse Church and at Kamloops Cell Repair in Aberdeen Mall.

Those interested in volunteering and/or donating to the cause can call Lal at 778538-4118 or go online to lighthouseprojects.ca/donations, where more information on The Lighthouse Project and H2O for Hope can be found.

KTW community briefs

• The Kwseltkten Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market and Sabrina’s Flea Market will set up shop at the Tk’emlúps Powwow Grounds every Sunday in August.

The event will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The Powwow Arbour is at Highway 5 and Shuswap Road on the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc reserve.

• The Batchelor Heights

Community Association is hosting free yoga sessions for all levels in Saddleback Park through September. Sessions are held at 6 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays in July and August and on Thursdays in September. Donations to the Kamloops Food Bank are accepted.

The park is at Grasslands Boulevard and Stagecoach Drive.

Community BRIEFS

EXPLORE THIS STATION

Tourism Kamloops has launched its newest initiative, the Loops Explorer Station.

Located in downtown Kamloops, at 342 Victoria St. next to the Kami Inn, the Loops Explorer Station serves as a community hub, connecting visitors and residents alike.

At the Loops Explorer Station, people seeking recommendations on Kamloops’ hidden gems and must-see locales can find everything they need.

The BOLD Street Team will be there daily, ready to provide insider tips, advice and guidance. The station itself is set to become a destination of its own, featuring interesting activations including local business popups, live art installations, cultural showcases and a variety of unique events.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

City of Kamloops

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

Programs

Sagebrush Summer

Age 5 and under Free

Bring your family to the KMA to explore the Kamloops ecosystem and join us in building a sagebrush forest in the Museum There is something for everyone in this hands on activity

Kamloops Museum and Archives

Sat Aug 5 9:45 am to 11:00 am

Pollinator Prowl $10

Join the Kamloops Museum and Archives as we learn more about flowers, pollen, and buzzing bees! We will meet to play games and observe insects in the garden at St Andrew’s on the Square before returning to the KMA to explore the Children’s Museum and create a caregiver assisted craft Please bring a snack

Kamloops Museum and Archives

Thur Aug 24 9:45 am to 11:00 am

Painting, Singing, Acting, Dancing

This camp program is a great opportunity for children who are interested in trying out new areas of the arts or that already loves multiple disciplines

Kamloops Performance Company

Mon - Thurs Aug 14 - Aug 17

Ages 4 - 6 4/$100

9:30 am to 11:30 am

LEGGO MY LEGO!

Edie and Jack Hallett build shops with Lego pieces during the past weekend’s Lego Day at the public library. For information on future Lego days and other events at the library, go online to tnrl.com.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

FAITH: RECONCILING WITH GOD

There is an underlying concern of Paul that is seen in the Bible, in 2 Corinthians.

That concern is the number of people who challenged the validity of Paul’s apostleship. If the ones who wanted Paul discredited could find enough evidence to support their claims, they would be able to ruin Paul’s character.

They would also be able to ruin Paul’s work and claim he was doing his own work, not God’s.

Chapters eight and nine of 2 Corinthians are dealing with Paul wanting believers in Corinth to have a gift ready for the poor

Ages 7 - 10 4/$140

9:30 am to 12:30 pm

Kamloops Museum is Hiring!

Do you love history and working with people? Visit the City of Kamloops Career Opportunities: Term Contract Positions to find out more about the role of our Contract Instructor! Accepting applications until Friday, August 18, 2023

Christians in the Jerusalem region. In these two chapters, Paul is seeking to encourage the believers to have the gift ready when he comes through Corinth.

Getting back to the primary reason for this column, Paul uses a lot of different angles in his defence of the truth he preached. He was one of the preachers who brought the gospel to the city of Corinth. Now there were those who would like to tear down all that Paul established and they would not be satisfied until they had accomplished the ruin of the assembly in Corinth.

One of the ways Paul’s enemies would seek to bring the assembly down was through their hate toward what Paul preached. 2 Corinthians 5:13-21 gives us an understanding of what the enemies of Paul preached.

One of their questions was whether Paul was beside himself or losing his mind (v.13). Paul makes things clear that he was not beside himself, but that he always preached the message faithfully that he had from God.

Paul continues as he writes about the love of Christ being the motivating factor in his work. Paul is saying in this verse that the love of Christ reaches out to every person and declares,“If Christ died for all, then all were dead.”

This grand truth is telling us of our need for the saviour. Paul then writes about the life of a believer and how he or she can, as one who once was a sinner, now live unto or for the Lord who died for him and rose again.

Things completely change in the life of a believer when they trust in and live for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Verse 17 tells us if anyone puts their faith in Christ, they become a new creation (creature) in Christ. Salvation is a brand new start. In fact, scripture says “old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Paul continues writing that all things are of God and it is God who reconciles wayward humans back to Himself.

Paul writes in verse 18 that it is God who reconciles the sinner to himself and has given the responsibility to preach this message of the love of God to Paul.

Paul writes that he was given the responsibility of preaching this wonderful message to the world. Paul says he was given the “word of reconciliation (v. 19).”

So Paul declares a great truth: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he has made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.”

Put simply, God put all the punishment for the world’s sin on Jesus when He died on the cross. God has declared that whoever puts their personal faith in him as their saviour has been reconciled to God.

That is what you call being made all new.

John Eggers is an elder in the assembly that meets in Westsyde Gospel Hall in Kamloops. KTW welcomes submissions to its Faith page. Columns should be about 700 words in length and include a headshot of the author, along with a short bio on the writer.

Email editor@kamloopsthisweek.com.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD FOUND ON A29

JOHN EGGERS SPECIAL TO KTW

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how to describe it. I didn’t expect it.”

Alessandra BruceFuoco waited anxiously for judges to announce her score in the reel category at the Canadian Highland Dance Championships last month in Halifax.

Bruce-Fuoco, 25 and competing in the 21-and-over division, placed first in two disciplines — the highland fling and seann triubhas — but was unable to complete the sword dance due to injury, so maximum points in the reel were required to secure her second national championship victory and first since 2013.

“I did hurt myself earlier in the day and I didn’t think I was dancing my personal best,” said BruceFuoco, who trains at Lorena’s School of Highland Dancing in Kamloops. “I did still try really hard. When they announced my number, I was shocked. I went up to get my [gold] medal and I saw my mom [Karelyn] was crying in the crowd. It was crazy. I don’t know

Karelyn is responsible for her daughter’s first brush with dance.

“My mom actually saw an ad in the newspaper of a little girl wearing the kilt outfit and she thought it looked cute,” BruceFuoco, who grew up in Chilliwack, said with a laugh. “She put me in dance. I was around four years old when I started.”

Bruce-Fuoco won her first B.C. title in 2008, prior to her family’s move east to Ottawa, which was home base when she won Ontario championships in 2009, 2010, 2013, 2015 and 2019.

“I like the physical aspect of it,” BruceFuoco said. “It’s a very physically challenging style of dance, very aerobically challenging. It has aspects of ballet within it, but you’re always jumping and it’s fun in that way. I’m no stranger to injuries and I know many other dancers are no strangers to injury.”

Bruce-Fuoco returned to B.C. two years ago to pursue her master’s degree in physical therapy

from UBC, studying at the school’s campus in Prince George and summering in Kamloops with her family.

She won the B.C. championship in 2022.

The 21-and-over Canadian title this summer put an exclamation point on a season that tested Bruce-Fuoco’s resolve, a campaign that took an unfortunate turn in February when a ruptured plantar fascia in her right foot forced her off the dance floor.

Rehab seemed to go just fine, according

to results at the B.C. championships in May in Coquitlam.

“It sounds like I’m bragging or something like that. I promise I’m not,” Bruce-Fuoco said, sheepishly teeing up the results. “There are three judges who judge you. I did get all firsts from all of the judges.”

The part-time Kamloopsian has been to the national championship every year since she was nine.

“I’ve come close lots of times and been second a lot, so to win this year, I was very

surprised and absolutely just thrilled,” Bruce-Fuoco said. “It’s very challenging. Canada has some of the best highland dancers in the world training and living here.”

Bruce-Fuoco, an eight-time provincial champion and twotime Canadian champion, placed third overall at the world championship — held every year in Cowal, Scotland — in 2013.

She will not chase global supremacy this year, unable to participate at worlds due to

schooling responsibilities.

Bruce-Fuoco is scheduled to graduate in the fall and begin her career in physiotherapy, but plans to continue dancing competitively for a few more years.

“I’m just doing this because I love it,” she said. “I’ve got a couple of more years left. It does take a pretty large toll on your body.”

ON THE PODIUM

Meghan Ackerman and Emerson Kinney of Lorena’s School of Highland Dancing

were also in action at nationals.

Ackerman finished atop the podium in the 19-year-old open division and placed seventh in Blue Bonnets. Kinney placed first in the highland fling in the 14-year-old division. She teamed with Aviemore Dance Studio of Vernon and earned gold in small group choreography.

Both Ackerman and Bruce-Fuoco went to Switzerland following the national championship to dance in the Basel International Tattoo.

Alessandra [Allie] Bruce-Fuoco leaped above the competition at the Canadian Highland Dance Championships last month in Halifax. PAUL M. WILLIAMS PHOTO

AUGUST WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE

LOCAL SPORTS

SS

Helios making return to nationals

Maia Zakall was buzzing at Helios Ultimate practice last week at Exhibition Park, relishing two hours of disc delight before making the drive back to her home in Merritt.

“Everybody is just so accepting,” said Zakall, who makes the trek to Kamloops for training sessions three times a week. “It doesn’t matter how you identify, what your sexual orientation is, anything. Everyone is super kind — no matter what.”

Helios will be represented at the Canadian Ultimate Championships by its junior open squad and its junior women’s team. The tournament is slated to run from Aug. 13 to Aug. 16 in Surrey.

“We have so many talented athletes,” club co-founder and coach Ben Laidlaw said. “That’s kind of been our bread and butter when we get to these tournaments. We have so much natural talent, but experience is hard to come by in the Interior. There are no other teams, really, to play against. Kelowna started a guys’ team this year, which is great. On our girls’ side, there still aren’t teams to play against unless we travel to Vancouver.”

Two teams of seven players each compete on an ultimate playing field, which is about the same length as a football field, but narrower. At each end,

there is an end zone. Teams score if one of their players catches the disc in the opposition’s end zone.

Teams advance by passing the disc. Players cannot run with the disc.

“We always think throwing a Frisbee is pretty easy,” club member Graeme Hanks said. “We’ve all done it, either with a dog or some friends. But when you actually get to high levels and you’ve been playing against good teams, you realize the skill it takes to make throws and the speed it requires to catch them.”

Ultimate is self-officiated. Observers are on hand at some tournaments to resolve disputes and may make active calls related to conduct issues and rules.

“Sportsmanship is huge,” club member Ian Buemann said. “Ultimate is all about spirit. With observers, you can actually get kicked out of a game if you’re being unsportsmanlike or not being fair.”

The junior women placed third and the junior open squad placed fourth

last year at provincials in Surrey. The junior women were sixth and the junior open team finished ninth last year at nationals in Brampton, Ont.

“We’re definitely still the underdogs,” club member Maggie Sinclair said. “There is so much community. People that are involved are just amazing. Everybody who plays ultimate loves it.”

The 2023 provincial junior championships were held on July 8 and July 9 in Surrey, where Helios placed sixth in the women’s division and eighth in the open category to qualify for nationals.

“It takes extreme stamina,” Zakall said. “It is just running on running on running. Throwing is one of the most important skills. It looks easy. It’s not. I promise. It took me two years to throw a forehand. It takes a lot of commitment. I’m just hoping to make our coaches proud, make my teammates proud and have fun while doing it.”

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

The female Helios Ultimate team is primed for the Canadian Ultimate Championships.

The junior open Helios Ultimate team placed eighth at provincials.

LOCAL SPORTS

Kamloops and area athletes

storm podium at NAIG

Athletes from Kamloops, Chase and Merritt were in action recently at the North American Indigenous Games in Halifax.

Results from the Games are listed below.

KAMLOOPS

Sisters Eboni and Rubi Samaha claimed gold for B.C. in 16-and-under female soccer action. B.C. edged Saskatchewan 2-1 in the title tilt.

Sydney Fraser and Cloe Rupert helped the 19-andunder female lacrosse squad win gold, vanquishing Ontario 10-8 in the gold medal game.

Kian Lindgren, Hudson Mason, Hayden Mason, Carson Crooks and Denby Render claimed silver with the 16-and-under male lacrosse team. Ontario edged B.C. 7-6 in the goldmedal game.

Raine Celesta-Camille and the 19-and-under male softball team reached the gold medal game, in which it was scheduled to play Nova Scotia. The game was cancelled due to inclement weather. Both teams were awarded gold medals.

Torrun Maurice took part in nine swimming events and had six top-10 placings — silver in the 16-and-under 4x50m, bronze in the 16-and-under 4x100m, fourth in the 4x50m medley relay, sixth in both the 14-and-under 50m breaststroke and 100m breaststroke and ninth in

the 50m freestyle.

Temeke Gottfriedsen nabbed silver with the 19-and-under male lacrosse squad. Ontario earned an 11-9 win over B.C. in the final.

Waki-Ya Charging Bear Diablo won bronze with the 14-and-under male basketball team, topping Minnesota 43-31 in the third-place game.

Jensen Tremblay competed in six 16-and-under male athletics events — the 100-, 200- and 300-metre running events, the long jump, the 4x400m relay and 4x100m relay.

Tremblay won bronze in the 4x400m, placed sixth in the 4x100m and finished 12th in the long jump.

Morgan Eichenberger and Ashtynn Gurnsey, competing for the 19-andunder female basketball team, placed fourth, falling 73-54 to Wisconsin in the bronze medal tilt.

Jayden Broadfoot and the 16-and-under male basketball team placed fourth, falling 73-64 to Eastern Door and the North in the bronze medal game.

Maddex McGrath placed fifth in in the 163.1-pound male wrestling division, besting Brandon Kowal of Saskatchewan in the fifthplace match.

Cassidy Ashley, competing in 19-and-under athletics, placed seventh in javelin, 11th in discus and 13th in shot put.

Shale Maurice toiled for

the 16-and-under volleyball team, which fell short of the playoffs.

CHASE

Bruce Jackson was part of the 19-and-under male softball team that won gold.

Erika Lans bagged bronze with the 16-andunder female softball team.

B.C. was slated to play Saskatchewan in the thirdplace game, which was cancelled due to inclement weather. Both teams were awarded bronze.

Klu7ce Soulle and the 16-and-under male softball team placed fourth, falling 12-4 to Ontario on the bronze medal game.

Derek John and the 16-and-under male basketball team placed fourth. Eastern Door and the North prevailed 73-64 over B.C. in the bronze medal matchup.

MERRITT

Roland Quewezance claimed silver with the 16-and-under male lacrosse team.

Maddox Craske played for the 16-and-under male basketball team that placed fourth.

Kasey Wycotte competed in the 127.9-pound male wrestling division.

Simon Cisco Jr. was an alternate for the male 19-and-under softball team that won gold.

Casey Mack Stirling was an alternate for the 16-andunder male softball squad that placed fourth.

SUSTAINABILITY AT RIBFEST —LEADING BY EXAMPLE

By Terr y -Lynn Stone

Q uestion: W hat does it take to make an event with more than 14 food vendors and over 50,000 attendees sustainable?

Answer: A lot of cooperation!

Luckily for Kamloops, cooperation is something we are good at

In 2020, just before the pandemic hit, Daybreak Rotar y members Chantel Morphy, Alison W ilkinson, Adam Yereniuk, and Tom Dickinson worked with the city to develop a plan to make Rotar y Club of Kamloops Ribfest, as sustainable as possible But those plans had to be put on hold for two years until 2022.

Last year, many new processes were put in place and those processes were largely successful 90% of garbage was diverted from the landfill

The huge row of garbage dumpsters were replaced with recycling containers, compost containers and returnables containers

This year, the cooperation continues; Marcia Dick, the Solid Waste Reduction Coordinator for the City of Kamloops, who helped last year is again helping the Rotar y Sustainability Committee come up with a plan to make this year ’ s event 95% sustainable A lofty goal

“ The public is really motivated to help”, said Alison W ilkinson They want to ensure there is as little garbage as possible created by the event This year, the plan is to increase the number of volunteers who will work with the public to ensure each type of waste is appropriately assigned to the correct bin; “and nothing matches a real person pointing!”

laughs Tom Dickinson

But it takes a village, as the saying goes or even a few villages in this case Spa Hills, a compostable site in Vernon, has been instrumental in taking all the compostables which is a significant contribution They are on board again this year

There is also the commitment from

vendors no swag that could end up in a garbage bin will be given out Vendors will use only compostable materials Bamboo and paper will replace plastic and foam And, as you might expect, the “Most Sustainable Ribber” trophy is also fully recyclable it is a beautiful wooden car ved trophy made by Wade Billey and engraved by Nicholas Adams two dedicated Rotar y members! However, we are sure the trophy will be treasured for years and won’t ever be recycled!

So why not come out to Ribfest from August 11th to 13th (from 11am to 9pm), listen to the music, enjoy all the wonderful food and see for yourself all the garbage which isn’t there?

Last year, Ribfest visitors were over whelmingly in favour of the efforts to make the event sustainable, this year the sustainability committee is striving for zero waste and with cooperation from ever yone, we think they will achieve that goal

We wish our current and future loyal customers a safe and secure summer!

In 2022: 4,800 KG of wood, 800 KG of cardboard and 600 KG of general recycling were diverted from the landfill

WINNING LOTTO

Super Sopotyk

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kyrell Sopotyk was dominant at the Bell Canadian Track and Field Championships, which wrapped up on July 30 in Langley.

Sopotyk, formerly of the Kamloops Blazers, won three gold medals in T53 wheelchair racing action, placing first in the 400metre, 800m and 1,500m events.

“Honestly, I didn’t go into it with too high of expectations,” Sopotyk said. “Coming home with three gold medals is super exciting, but competition wise, it was just good to be able to go to Langley and compete against other para-athletes.”

The Aberdeen, Sask., product posted a time of 1:07.80 in the 400m to finish nearly three seconds ahead of silver medallist Paulo Guerrero (1:10.64).

Sopotyk, who competes for Saskatchewan para club Cyclones Athletics, clocked in at 2:19.75 in the 800m, well ahead of secondplace Guerrero (2:24.55).

He crossed the finish line in 4:32.76 in the 1,500m, more than seven seconds ahead of silver medallist Matthew Dykstra (4:39.95).

Each of his gold medalwinning times are personal-best marks.

“I feel like I can keep improving on everything, the technique, the endurance — everything,” Sopotyk said. “It’s tough in the province when there are only a couple of us to race against. When you’re out at a competition and there are other athletes from other provinces, it kind of pushes you a little more.”

Sopotyk was paralyzed from the waist down in a snowboarding accident in January of 2021, a few weeks before the start of his 19-year-old campaign with the Blazers.

He won bronze in the 1,500m last year at the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games and represented Canada internationally in wheelchair basketball in Thailand last September.

Distances

Kyrell Sopotyk donning hardware earned at the Canadian Track and Field Championships, which wrapped up on July 30 in Langley.

CYCLONES ATHLETICS PHOTO

FIGHT NIGHT

Derek Apps of Valley Jiu-Jitsu tangles with Chris Tremayne of Surrey at Mamba Fight League 12 Contenders, a mixed-martialarts event that took place on July 28 at the Tournament Capital Centre. Tremayne won the jiu-jitsu grappling bout. Zack Currie, who also trains at Valley, was in grappling action at the event, squaring off against Michael Evans of Coquitlam. Evans earned the victory. For more photos, go online to kamloopsthisweek.com and click on the sports tab.

Broncos hit road

Renovations at Hillside Stadium are forcing the Kamloops Broncos to play five consecutive road games to start the B.C. Football Conference campaign.

Kamloops will open the season on Saturday, Aug. 5, when it travels to Langford to play the Westshore Rebels at Starlight Stadium.

The Broncos will visit the Okanagan Sun in Kelowna on Aug. 12, the Prince George Kodiaks on Aug. 19, the Langley Rams on Aug. 26 and the Valley Huskers in Chilliwack on Sept. 2 before returning home to host the Sun on Sept. 16.

BCFC action kicked off last week in Week 1.

The Rebels hammered the Vancouver Island Raiders of Nanaimo 69-0, the Sun blanked the Kodiaks 32-0 and the Huskers topped the Rams 26-18.

Kamloops posted a 4-6 record and missed the playoffs in 2022. The club has not reached the post-season since 2015, the last time it did not finish a season with a losing record (5-5).

Four wins in 2022 — including the first road victory over the Raiders in Nanaimo in franchise history — were an improvement on 2021, when the Broncos posted a 1-7 record.

The victory in 2021, an 18-7 triumph over Westshore, snapped a 27-game losing streak that dated back to Oct. 7, 2017.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

• 2,190 sq.ft. two storey with basement townhouse

• 3 bedrooms upstairs with 4 pce bathroom

• Large master bedroom has 3 pce ensuite, walk in closet

• Great size living room with formal dining room next door and access to kitchen with nook

• Access to backyard brick patio and garage from kitchen

• Laundr y with 2 pce powder room on main floor

•

We had the experience of working with Denise Bouwmeester on the sale of a Kamloops property. Denise was professional, very knowledgeable, proactive and readily available with solid advice when we had questions. She really went above and beyond and hands down the best Realtor we have ever worked with.

Dave and Terrie

• Great Westsyde location with 2+3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms

• Level entry with double garage and main floor laundry

• Bareland strata fee of $230/month

• Beautifully maintained 3+1 bedroom 2 bathroom home

• Many updates throughout including windows, furnace, central air, bathrooms, and more

• Great central location close to all amenities

• Beautifully maintained 2+2 bedroom bareland strata in Crestview Heights

• Rancher style including main floor laundry and double garage

• 55+ complex

• Immaculately maintained 3+1 bedroom 4 bathroom home in great Sahali neighbourhood

• Quiet cul-de-sac location

• Full basement with separate entry

• Beautiful custom built home with 2+2 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms

• Waterfront home on approximately half an acre lot overlooking Kamloops Lake

• Lots of parking

• Great family home with 4+1 bedroom 4 bathroom home in quiet Sun Rivers location

• Over 4800 square feet of living space with many updates done throughout

• Lots of parking including triple garage

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

8. Razzie Award winners, typically

9. Jewish title 10. URL ending

11. Fall

12. ‘‘That makes things a little better’’

13. Word before hole or crust

14. Org. with a ‘‘Top 100 Most Banned and Challenged Books’’ list

15. Give up

16. Chums

17. Networker?

18. Titleholders

24. Spleen

25. H.S math topic

30. Comic book : manga :: film :

32. Judge’s seat

33. Put on the line

34. Afore

35. Linda, Calif

38. Scrap

39. Simple pond organism

40. Nasdaq and N Y.S.E : Abbr

41. Polynesian staple

42. Taker of a dog DNA test

44. Sinewy 47. Certain tree-hugger 48. Land of Ozymandias 49. Fixing things 51. Acoustic 52. Johnnycake grain 53. Health-class topic, in brief 56. Winter bug 57. Flight 59. ‘‘Me too’’ 60. They’re sometimes in Roman numerals 61. One saying, ‘‘Back in my day

WORD SCRAMBLE

THE GAME IS AFOOT

BY MICHAEL SCHLOSSBERG

ANSWER: LEDOOC

CROSSWORD

ANSWERS FOUND ON A18

FUN BY THE NUMBERS Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes To solve a sudoku the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

WEEKLY COMICS

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Aries, someone in your life says they’re making changes, but when you look closely it seems like much of the same A little encouragement on your part can help this person along

Tread lightly if you broach a difficult conversation with someone close to you, Taurus These are tricky waters you are navigating and you want to maintain the relationship

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Problems may seem to you to be bigger than they really are, Gemini Step back, take a few breaths and then look at things from another perspective Ask for a second opinion as well

Look for the double meanings in conversations you’re having with coworkers this week, Cancer They could be tr ying to tell you something, so read between the lines

Leo, you are typically good at reading others’ moods, so use that skill this week when placed in a sensitive situation It will help guide you on what to say and what to keep quiet for now

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

There is a lot of socializing going on in your life right now, Virgo Enjoy the excitement while it lasts and maximize all of the events you can attend Things may star t to slow in a few weeks

It ’s probably best to keep your head down for the next few days and just go about your normal routine, Libra Don’t get pulled into anyone’s drama or offer your take on things

Scorpio, it is time to be more proactive about getting what you want Make a list of the things that most interest you right now, and then devise a plan to make things happen

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Figure out which stance you want to take right now, Sagittarius Are you seeing the glass half full or half empty? Perception can affect your daily life in many ways

Good news is on the way, Capricorn This will leave you floating on air for some time afterwards Surround yourself with the people you love this week so that they can share the good fortune

Jan 21/Feb 18

There is a lot that you have been juggling for some time, Aquarius Unless you take a break or ask for help, one of those balls are going to fall and that could have a domino effect

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you have every right to express your opinions Others will just have to accept what you say even if they don’t agree with it

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

2012 GMC Van 10 passenger V-8, auto $10,500 250-376-4163

items, local histor y ephemera; BC potter y, ceramics 4th Mer idian Ar t & Vintage, 104 1475 Fair view, Penticton Leanne@4thmer idian ca

Wrought iron beds $300 /each High Chair $30 Cedar Hope chest $400 Rocking chair $150 Oak dresser w/mirror

$475 250-372-8177

EARN EXTRA $$$

KTW requires door to door substitute carriers for all areas in the cit y Vehicle is

a copy of the proposed bylaw and Development Variance Permit and related information may be viewed:

• On the District’s website at: www loganlake ca

• In person at the Municipal Hall at #1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake, BC during regular business hours from July 31, 2023 to August 15, 2023, #1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake, BC on regular business days (Monday to Friday, except holidays), between the hours of 8:30 a m and 4:00 p m (closed 12:30 to 1:00 pm)

If you would like to provide input:

• Persons may speak at the 6:30 p m Regular Council Meeting on August 15 h at the Municipal Hall, #1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake;

• Provide written comments prior to the meeting by noon, Thursday, August 14, 2023 to Wade Archambault, Chief Administrative Officer, District of Logan Lake, PO Box 190, #1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake, BC V0K

1W0 Phone: 250-523-6225 ext: 229 email: cao@loganlake ca or Fax: 250-523-6678

Dated at Logan Lake, BC this 26 h day

MULTI MEDIA ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

Award-winning media company Kamloops This Week has an opening for an Advertising Sales Consultant for our suite of print and digital products The successful candidate will be a self-starter highly organized and able to work in a fast-paced environment The candidate will lead KTW to great success in this dynamic position and have a strong drive for networking The candidate will also work creatively with a diverse team to provide the appropriate marketing opportunities and solutions for our clients Marketing and/or advertising background is an asset, but not required

YOU HAVE:

• Strong understanding of goal-oriented sales

• Passion to help your customers build successful print and digital campaigns

• A creative approach to problem-solving

• Strong, genuine customer service skills

• The ability to build strategic marketing campaigns

• Brand awareness

• To be flexible and adaptable to changing client needs

• Passion to help your customers drive new business and meet their long term goals

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU:

• Company benefits

• Professional print & digital training

• Competitive compensation based on previous experience

Interested applicants should send or email resume to: Liz Spivey, Sales Manager

Kamloops This Week 1365-B Dalhousie Drive Kamloops B.C. V2C 5P6 liz@kamloopsthisweek.com

In Loving Memory of Janet (Jan) Marie Williams Cook

In Loving Memory

Barbara Eileen LeDuc

April 8, 1931 - July 24, 2023

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Barbara Eileen LeDuc (née Jackson) on July 24, 2023, at Kelowna General Hospital.

Barbara (Barb) was born in Kelowna to Oliver and Eileen Jackson (née Claxton) on April 8, 1931. She was the second of three children. Her brother, John, was born in 1929 and died in 1956. Her sister, Sheila, was born in 1933 and lives in Armstrong. Barb’s thriftiness was no doubt shaped by her early life in the Great Depression and World War II.

After the war, the family lived for many years on their farm on Hall Road in East Kelowna. Oliver and Eileen were a creative and resourceful couple who once travelled from Kelowna to Quesnel in a horsedrawn wagon, and who knitted Cowichan-style sweaters for income during the Depression. Barb inherited their aptitude for arts, crafts and cultivation, and loved to draw, paint with watercolours, sew, knit and garden.

Barb was an adventurous and intrepid young woman. She hiked and camped as a member of the Outdoors Club. In 1951, when she was 20, Barb rode her 1-speed Raleigh bicycle from Kelowna to Banff with a girlfriend (taking the train from Sicamous to Field, as there was no Trans-Canada Highway), and visited the Calgary Stampede. When she was 23, Barb travelled with Sheila by train and ship across the Atlantic for a three-month tour of England, Ireland and parts of Europe.

Remembering Jesse Harold Gitzel

Each Loss

Much to the chagrin of her mother, Barb left the family nest in Kelowna and moved to Kamloops. She enjoyed her time “batching it” with her roommates and working as a stenographer for several BC government agencies including Welfare, the Grazing Office and finally Forestry, where she met her husband, Burt LeDuc. They married in 1958 and had their first child, Catherine (Pat) in 1959, followed by Karen (Keith), Morris “Bud” and Heather (Mario). The kids always had beautifully knitted sweaters to wear on adventures like catching tadpoles in Peterson Creek.

In 1968, the family moved from their tiny three-plex on Pleasant Street to their new house on Todd Hill

Crescent in Dallas. Barb planted and cared for several flower beds and a huge vegetable garden, which fed the family for many years. The family was joined by a cat named Tootsie and a dog named Mr Pup. Barb and Burt lived in the house for almost 50 years and greatly enjoyed the friendship of their neighbours. They frequently dined at Denny’s where they were doted on by the kind-hearted servers. Barb joined the congregation of St. Peter ’s Church in Monte Creek, made many lifelong friends and served in many capacities of the Ladies’ Guild over the years.

Over time, Barb and Burt were blessed with three granddaughters: Alicia (Dave), Jacqueline (Matt) and Robyn (Drew). Great-grandkids include Greysen and Chase, Jackie and Matt’s boys, and Sebby and Ramona, Robyn and Drew’s children.

In 2016, Barb and Burt moved into Berwick on the Park in Kamloops. Barb was much loved by the staff and the group of “girls” who befriended her and shared meals with her She was predeceased by Burt in 2017, after nearly 58 years of marriage.

In March, 2023, Barb moved into her newlyrenovated room at Bud’s house in Vernon. In her chair by the window, Barb enjoyed puttering at jigsaw puzzles and watching the birds. She was always up for a Scrabble challenge both at Berwick and at Bud’s.

Barb will be remembered for her big blue eyes (inherited from her Irish mother) and beautiful smile, her kooky sense of humour, her amazing macaroni and cheese, and her love for her family and friends. Barb was quiet and unassuming but made a huge impression on all those who knew her

Barb’s family would like to acknowledge the kindness and compassion of all those who cared for her over the years, including Dr McLaren, the staff of Berwick on the Park and Ponderosa Lodge in Kamloops, and the doctors and nurses at Royal Inland Hospital, Vernon Jubilee Hospital and Kelowna General Hospital.

Friends and family are invited to an morning of remembrance for Barb on August 26, 2023 starting with a service at the St. Peter ’s Church in Monte Creek at 11 am, followed by lunch in the church hall.

Arnold Richard Maunula

July 29, 1942 - July 26, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved father Arnold Maunula.

Dad died peacefully on July 26th at the Mariorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice with his family at his side. Dad was a man of strong faith and has ascended into heaven to be with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He was predeceased by his wife Jewel in 2016 and is survived by his children Roy, Sherry, Shelly, Shawn (Marnie). His grandchildren Caleb, Michael, Devin, Claye, Haley, Jamie, Vanessa, Jordan and Tyra as well as numerous great grandchildren.

Arnold was born to Andrew and Tynne Maunula in Port Arthur (Thunder Bay) Ontario. He had 10 siblings who all worked on the family farm and store. As a youth he loved cars, sports and dancing. His first job was logging with his brothers. In 1968 he moved his family to Kamloops, BC where he worked at Balco and earned his welding ticket. He then went on to work at Weyerhaeuser where he worked for 21 years and received his Millwright ticket and finished his career as Maintenance Planner for the company

Dad loved his family, fishing, friends and flowers. He was a spectacular host and the centre of all our lives. He was happiest when the house was full of family and friends sharing food, wine and laughter He never forgot a Birthday or Anniversary of those he loved no matter how large the family expanded.

He and his wife Jewel loved to travel and to be outdoors. They spent many weekends and holidays with friends at Bridge or Canim Lake camping and

fishing. If you wanted to be sure to catch a fish, you sat in Arnold's boat. Even in his last days he yearned to go fishing one more time to catch the "big one".

Dad was also an avid gardener especially in the later years. He loved flowers and always grew an abundance of vegetables as his greatest pleasure was to share with family, friends and neighbours. He even delivered box loads of fresh vegetables from his garden to Firefighters camped at the local school. He was a generous man until the very end, always willing to lend a hand.

Steven John King

18 March 1968 - 22 July 2023

Today with heavy hearts we say to Steve, “See You Later”.

Steve never enjoyed saying “goodbye” but as an alternative he has said, “See You Later”, knowing that his passing will now allow for his Spiritual Journey to begin by making connections with those previously deceased, those that are open to spiritual connections and those family and friends that are still to pass.

On the day of his passing, his family and friends have now begun their exploration in Celebrating his Life. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandi, his loving parents, Bob and Pat, his sister Cathy (Andrew), brother Doug (Lila), niece Cheryl and nephew Trevor, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

Dad we already miss you terribly, we take comfort in knowing the Lord in his wisdom has called another Angel home.

The Memorial Service to celebrate Arnold's life will be held at 11am on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at the Lord of life Lutheran Church, with Pastor Andrew McDonald officiating. The family would like to give special thanks to all the home care workers who supported him to remain in his home as long as possible. Also the nurses and staff at Kamloops Hospice Marjorie Willoughby House who kept him comfortable in his last hours and supported the family

Memorial donations in his name to the Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 2481 Sunset Dr., Kamloops, BC. V2C 4K1 or to Kamloops Hospice Association, 72 Whiteshield Crescent, Kamloops, BC.

V2E 2S9

Condolence can be expressed at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

Steve was born in Vancouver, moved to Kamloops at age eleven where he graduated from Kamloops Senior High and then Cariboo College. He was an energetic member of the 3rd Kamloops Scout Group where he received his Chief Scout Award. After graduating from Cariboo College, Steve moved to Calgary where he developed his career as a Graphic Designer with several companies as well as starting 16 years of vigorous volunteering with the St. John Ambulance Volunteer Brigade. He received several Provincial commendations, won a National Competition award and most importantly met Sandi, where they developed a wonderful relationship full of fun, adventures and memorable shenanigans.

Steve and Sandi were married in Calgary in 2007, relocated to Kamloops in 2012 with a Canada Post work transfer and then approximately 8 years later the opportunity arose for them to put their lives in storage and move to Vancouver Island and live in their travel trailer while exploring the local communities before permanently settling on the Island. Steve and Sandi have resided in Comox for the past two and a half years and have enjoyed every aspect of this wonderful community

With all the challenges thrown his way in the past few years, Steve has continued to focus on the positives of life with his strength and sense of humour continuing to shine through.

Steve and Sandi would like to acknowledge and thank all the doctors, nurses and tech supports that have provided such premium care through the Comox Hospital, Home Medical Care and the Palliative Care Services.

A Celebration of Life followed by a reception for Steve will be held on Saturday, August 19th, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Piercy's-Mt. Washington Funeral Home located at 440 England Ave, Courtenay, BC V9N 2N1.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, a donation may be made to : Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation - "Medical Imaging" in Steve's memory You can mail directly to : 101 Lerwick Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 0B9 or go to website to donate online at: cvhealthcarefoundation.com for details.

"If I could leave one thought behind always remember to be real kind"

Arnold Maunula

Love’s greatest gift is remembrance.

Edwina Kurta

Edwina Kurta, age 86, of Salmon Arm, BC (formerly Clearwater and Kamloops), passed away peacefully on July 20, 2023 at the Mt Ida Mews retirement home in Salmon Arm.

Edwina was born in Salmon Arm, BC and grew up on the dairy farm owned and run by her parents Bruce and Edna Aten. Her favourite pastime growing up was riding her horse Silver and she was often seen galloping across the field standing on Silver ’s back. After attending UBC and attaining a degree in Home Economics, Edwina settled in Kamloops where she and her husband John raised their family Edwina taught high school home economics before leaving teaching and becoming a partner/operator of Anderson’s Sewing Centre. Edwina and John moved to Clearwater in 1997 and then back to their hometown Salmon Arm in 2017.

When inside, Edwina enjoyed reading, sewing and creating beautiful cross-stitch pictures. When outside, she was gardening, horseback riding, hunting, fishing (her favourite pastime) or camping with family or friends down some bumpy backroad. Much time was also spent at ‘the farm’ in the upper Clearwater Valley, where Edwina and John eventually built their retirement home.

Though Edwina was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at age 60, it did not stop her from travelling and doing all the things she loved well into her late 70s - her fight was fierce to delay as long as possible each stage of mobility loss.

Edwina’s contributions to community included many years with the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Kamloops. In Clearwater she was involved with Friends of Wells Gray and the Upper Clearwater Community Hall. Edwina and John also donated private land to The Land Conservancy to support the

Drake Smith, MSW Funeral

Director

Q. I pre-paid somewhere else but I want you to take care of me. Now what?

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development of the Clearwater Wetland project, which was John’s vision in the early 70s when they purchased land in the Upper Clearwater valley - with this, Edwina and John have left a legacy that will continue to be expanded for wildlife connectivity

Things that we will always remember about Edwina – Ever present positive outlook on life. Patience. Common saying ‘that’s just the way it is’. The handywoman of the house. Passion for fishing and exploring many small lakes with John. Unconditional love of her husband, children and grandkids. Generosity and willingness to help family and friends.

Edwina was pre-deceased by her husband John (2019) and brothers Jerry (2019) and Bill (2017). Left to honour Edwina and to remember her love and passion for life are her three children Sheryle (Neil) Campbell, Sandra (Chris Greenaway) Sulyma and Jim (Charlotte) Kurta, her grandchildren Devon, Emma and Keean Campbell, Joel and Emily Sulyma and Anni and Sam Kurta, and her sister Mary Rollier

On Sunday, August 13, the family invites friends and family to celebrate Edwina’s life by coming by anytime between 1:00 to 3:00 pm for tea/coffee/snacks and to visit and reminisce at Mount Ida Hall, 5421- 70th St. SW, Salmon Arm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Land Conservancy (http://conservancy.bc.ca/), directed to the Clearwater Ancient Swamp and Wildlife Corridor Campaign (which will serve to connect to the land that Edwina and John have previously donated) or MS Canada (https://mscanada.ca/).

Condolences and memories of Edwina can be shared through her obituary at www.fischersfuneralservices.com

Thomas Hilton

August 28, 1989 - July 18, 2023

The loss of Thomas is heartbreaking after he persevered through two years of cancer Naturally artistic, he explored many hobbies and interests: gaming, painting, cooking and music. He is remembered as kind, caring, quickwitted and thoughtful.

He leaves behind parents Terry and Emmie and beloved brother Keith.

He had so much more life to live and had many plans for the future, passionate about computers, Tom hoped to beat cancer and become a software developer

We will forever miss his engaging personality and witty, joyful humour

Donations would be appreciated to Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home, 72 Whiteshield Cres S., Kamloops, BC V2E 2S9.

Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com

Rena May Wilson (née Starks)

August 25, 1924 - July 25, 2023

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Rena, a fantastic, truly beautiful and well-loved lady Rena passed away at Brocklehurst Gemstone Care Center in Kamloops on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. She was 31 days short of her 99th birthday

Mom was born on the farm in Saskatchewan, where she grew up. She attended Breezy Brae School near Colonsay, Saskatchewan. As a teen, she went east and joined the war effort in an aircraft factory as a ‘Riveter ’. After the war, she married and raised her family, eventually moving back to Saskatchewan. She had many vocations outside of the home, care aid, file clerk, cashier, and most recent retail clerk at Woolco in Kamloops. Mom's greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren.

Mom enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and scrapbooking and a good card game. She found great pleasure and was very successful in her retirement years with oil painting which she gifted to family and friends.

Rena is preceded in death by her sons, Richard Wilson and Larry Wilson and her daughter-in-law, Yvonne Wilson. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Diduck (Kamloops) and son, Mark Wilson (Saskatoon) and her daughters-in-law, Joan Wilson (Kamloops) and Patricia Wilson (Saskatoon). She is also loving remembered by her 12 grandchildren, 26 greatgrandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

The family thanks the staff at Gemstones for the amazing care and support provided to Rena.

Mom’s wishes were that no funeral service be held.

Condolences may be expressed to the family from DrakeCremation.com 250 377-8225.

Dorothy Patricia (Pat) Richmond

It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy Patricia (Pat) Richmond. She is survived by her husband, Claude, children Valerie, Craig and Jeffrey, grandchildren Carl and Taylor, and brother Bruce.

Pat was born in Winnipeg in 1936, where she met Claude, her husband of 65 years. Claude was in the RCAF and, after he left the air force, they made their home in Kamloops.

As well as raising an active family, Pat was also involved in charity work. She was a graduate of a business college in Winnipeg which was a natural fit for the volunteer work she did for the Canadian Cancer Society for 25 years. She also volunteered with the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts and in the office of AE Perry School.

Pat was also intensely involved in her husband’s various political campaigns and accompanied him during his many duties both in BC, as well as around the world. She loved meeting people from all walks of life and always charmed those lucky enough to interact with her

Those who met Pat were instantly drawn to her warmth and wonderful sense of humour She was a marvelous cook and was always elegant, whether she was having dinner with the Queen or hotdogs at a campout.

We want to especially thank all the staff at Pinegrove Care Centre for their gentle and loving care of our beloved Mother and wife during the last of her life. She also expressed to us her gratitude to those who looked after her

A memorial service will be held on September 16th at 2PM, in the West Highlands Community Centre. 1185 Links Way, in Aberdeen.

Breakthrough

by Nel de Keijzer Santa Barbara, California

by

By Helen Steiner Rice

Reid Enzo Ross Davidson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Reid Enzo Ross Davidson of Nanaimo, British Columbia, on July 20th, 2023 at the age of 24, surrounded by his loving family and friends. His young life was taken tragically in a vehicle collision.

Reid was born on February 23, 1999 in Kamloops, British Columbia, the son of Michael and Lisa (Lizzi).

Reid grew up in the community of 100 Mile House, British Columbia where he attended 100 Mile House Elementary and Peter Skene Odgen Secondary He graduated in 2017 with a Double Dogwood having been in the French Immersion program since kindergarten. He was always proud of his 100 Mile House roots.

After high school, Reid chose to attend Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo where he studied and played soccer for the VIU Mariners. Reid earned his Bachelor of Tourism Management with a Major in Recreation, a Recreation and Sport Management Diploma and an Event Management certificate. Reid was an excellent student, twice named to the Dean’s Honour List and twice named CCAA National Scholar

During his time at VIU, Reid met the love of his life, Georgia Nicholls. Reid and Georgia shared many interests. Besides their passion for soccer, they loved to explore together, be with friends and family and spend time with Nicholls’ dogs.

While attending university, Reid worked for the Boys and Girls Club in Nanaimo. Upon completion of university, Reid began his role as Administrative Lead at Nanaimo United TC. Most recently, he served as Game Day Manager for Harbourside FC in it’s inaugural League 1 BC season. At a very young age Reid established himself in the community of Nanaimo and became respected by so many through his work, dedication and involvement in soccer and other endeavors.

Reid LOVED sports. He played minor hockey in 100 Mile House, high school basketball with the Eagles and most recently golf. But he had a passion for the “beautiful game”. He began playing at an early age with his mom as his coach in Timbits soccer with the 100 Mile House Soccer association. He then made stops in Williams Lake, Kamloops, the European Football School in Vancouver and the Vancouver Whitecaps Academy before moving to Nanaimo to join the VIU Mariners (where he was recognized as the Unsung Hero in 2019), and Nanaimo United FC. Reid was known for his accurate penalty shot, which won the team he captained the Division 2 VISL League title recently

One of Reid’s other passions was travelling. He loved the outdoors and always enjoyed family adventures with the Davidson, Lizzi and Nicholls families. But Reid’s favourite destination was Disneyland, which he recently visited with Georgia. He knew all the tricks to get the most out of a visit.

He loved to spend time with family during the holidays, often visiting 100 Mile House and Kamloops. Reid especially enjoyed his Sunday dinners with the Nicholls family in Ladysmith where he was famous for mixing Caesars. Over the last few years Reid “The Grill Master” enjoyed cooking for his friends.

Reid was a shining example of kindness and authenticity His genuine and humble nature endeared him to everyone he encountered in his short life. He made friends easily and leaves a lasting impact on those lucky enough to know him.

Reid is predeceased by his nonna Emma Lizzi (Buttazzoni) and his grandmother Shannon Davidson (Shae) as well as his uncle Richard Davidson.

Remaining to cherish Reid’s memory are his partner Georgia Nicholls; parents Michael and Lisa; sister Lydia Wolfe (Brett); nonno Enzo Lizzi and grandpa Ross Davidson (Christine); aunts/zias Laura, Rose, Anita and Kim; uncles/zios Victor, Brian and Rob; cousins Cecely, Eric, Emma, Annan, Ethan, Alessandro and Serena; the Nicholls family Kathleen, Dave, Mary and family; the Clarke family, numerous great aunts and uncles, cousins and many close friends in all the communities that Reid was a part of.

We would like the thank the first responders in Nanaimo and the medical staff at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and Victoria General Hospital for your compassionate care and efforts.

Reid will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery in Kamloops, British Columbia at a private family service.

There will be two Celebrations of Life for Reid that all are welcome to attend.

In Kamloops, British Columbia: Saturday, August 12th at 1:30 pm at Thompsons Rivers University Grand Hall (Campus Activity Centre) 1055 University Drive.

In Nanaimo, British Columbia: Saturday, August 26th at 1:00 pm at Vancouver Island University Gymnasium, 900 Fifth St, Nanaimo, British Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Reid’s memory can be directed to BC Children’s Hospital, the BCSPCA and KidSport British Columbia. These were all special organizations to Reid.

If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again

Condolences may be expressed at SchoeningFuneralService.com

In Loving Memory Barbara Jean Robinson Stewart Russell

In Loving Memory Barbara Jean Robinson Stewart Russell, born January 14, 1929 in Kamloops, was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and wife during her beautiful 94 years of life. She passed away peacefully in the evening of Friday, July 28, 2023. She is predeceased by her loving husband Rev Wesley Stewart (m.1947-1977) and also Maynard Russell (m.1978-1981).

Barbara will be missed by her Free Methodist church family and many friends. She loved to serve those in need and had an incredible gift of hospitality She will be remembered fondly by the many people who she, over the years, visited in hospital or invited into her home.

She is survived by her brother Stanley (Marj) Robinson, sister Josephine Klotz, her children Jim (Kathy) Stewart, Stanley (Diane) Stewart, Gerry (Wen Hua) Stewart, Anne (Scott) Stewart-Smith, 13 grandchildren, and 26 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving stepchildren Elsie (Chuck) Robertson, Isabel Russell, John (Michelle) Russell, Brian (Margo) Russell, 11 step-grandchildren, and 19 stepgreat-grandchildren, leaving a legacy of family that will love and miss her

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, August 4, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Kamloops Free Methodist Church, 975 Windbreak St., Kamloops, BC

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Smile Canada in memory of Barbara.

Arrangements entrusted to Schoening Funeral Service 250-374-1454

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

Charmian (Chum) Denise Ferguson

February 11, 1933 - July 20, 2023

On July 20, 2023, we said goodbye to a remarkable force of love, strength, and unwavering dedication, Charmian Denise Ferguson, affectionately known as "Chum" to her loved ones. Chum's journey through life was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her

Born on February 11, 1933, in Drumheller, Alberta, Chum faced life's challenges with courage and resilience, showing us what true strength was all about. Throughout her life, Chum was passionate about peace, social justice and human rights, striving to make a better world for future generations.

Charmian (Chum) leaves behind her sons Brian, Glenn and Jeff (Janet), daughter Katharine; grandchildren Jennifer, Sarah, Emily, Linsay, Thea, Chase and Will; greatgrandchildren Juniper, Zoey, Griffin, Amelie, Silas, Astrid, Sojourner and Monty; sister Mavis (Vic) She was predeceased by the love of her life Bill, her son Doug, grandsons Jim, Chris and Brandon, siblings Beverley and Patricia.

There will be a garden celebration on Saturday, August 19th at 2:00 pm, 2019 Glenwood Drive, Kamloops.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Voice of Women at: info@vowpeace.org in memory of Charmian.

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

Pennies From Heaven

by Charles L. Mashburn

I found a penny today, Just laying on the ground But it’s not just a penny, This little coin I’ve found. “Found” pennies come from heaven, That’s what my Grandpa told me He said angels toss them down; Oh, how I loved that story. He said when an angel misses you, They toss a penny down Sometimes just to cheer you up, Make a smile out of your frown

So don’t pass by that penny, When you’re feeling blue It may be a penny from heaven

That an angel tossed to you.

Darren Allan Grywacheski

July 18, 1965 - July 25, 2023

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Darren Grywacheski. Born in Kamloops at Royal Inland Hospital. Graduated from Kamloops Senior Secondary school in 1984.

Darren was predeceased by his sister Deborah. He is survived by parents Linda and Dave, daughter Ariel and wife Wendy

His passion in life was dirt bikes, he received his off-road motorcycle at age 7. Riding and racing dirt bikes remained a vital part of his life with the support of his family

The highlight of his motorcycle riding was his entry in the 1994 ISDE in Tulsa, Oklahoma, only the second time in its 69 year history that this event was held in the U.S.

The ISDE is an annual off-road world championship event for national teams that runs for 6 days and is regarded as the supreme test of rider and motorcycle.

Darren broke his foot on the 4th day of racing and to continue in the event he had to borrow a larger boot to fit his swollen foot. He had to wear the boot for 2 days and nights to finish the 5th and 6th days of racing. Darren was awarded the Ironman Trophy for finishing the final 2 days racing with a broken foot. Four other riders from Canada that completed the entire race were from Kamloops.

His other activities included snowmobiling and motorcycle ice racing.

Darren and his family have made countless life-long friends through the years in motorcycling.

Darren worked in the wholesale grocery and produce business and in the trucking industry

Darren and his family enjoyed living in Cherry Creek spending time with their animals, and Ariel loved the many excursions with her dad on their street bike.

The family would like to thank Interior Health for their help and caring.

A family service will be held at a later date.

Peter "Joe" Faesen

1926 - 2023

Peter “Joe” Faesen of Kamloops, BC, passed away on July 24th, 2023 at 97 years of age. He is survived by his daughter Willy (Gerry) Blackmore of Kamloops, BC, and son Heinie (Pam) Faesen of Prince George, BC, as well as his grandchildren David (Kyleen), Stephen (Michelle), Kerry Ann and Jeffrey, as well as great-grandchildren Branden (Sierra), Megan (Tom), Kyan, Mya, Sydney and Kiley, and many relatives in Holland. Joe was predeceased by his wife Lena in 2004, his son Theo in 1965, his mother and father, and both sisters.

Joe was born in Brunssum, Holland, in 1926, and immigrated to Canada in 1958 with his wife Lena and 3 young children where he made a good life for his family Joe worked at many things and ended up with an amazing career in the Hotel/Motel business that took him to live and travel all over BC.

Joe retired to Kamloops in his 70s where he enjoyed gardening, fishing, and hunting. His love for travel took him around the world and even in his later years went back to visit Holland and enjoyed an Alaskan Cruise.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr Dickinson and to those at Overlander Care home for the amazing care, compassion and respect shown to my father

A Celebration of Joe’s Life will take place at 12:00pm on Saturday, August 12th, 2023, at the Delta Hotel.

Condolences may be expressed to the family from www.cypressfuneral.ca

Kamloops Home Hardware Building Centre owner s R yan (far right) and Rick Kur zac (second f rom right) gather with TRU students, staff and facult y to celebrate the busine ss ’ s donation toward a Mercede s Sprinter van for the program

“As the Mayor is an elected official, the remedial measures available to the City to address his misconduct are quite limited as compared to a situation where employee-toemployee relationships are involved. In light of this, and in light of the Mayor’s apparent disposition not to accept direction from City staff or Council, I advise that the City should focus its efforts on protecting its employees from bullying, harassment, and other inappropriate behaviour (in keeping with its statutory obligations) as opposed to attempting to educate Mr. Hamer-Jackson (such as through one- on-one Respectful Workplace training).”

— Terry Honcharuk, The Integrity Group: Respectful Workplace Solutions

INVESTIGATION FINDS KAMLOOPS MAYOR VIOLATED COUNCIL CODE OF CONDUCT

any of the complainants unless a third party approved by the complainants is present for the call or meeting.

Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson is not currently allowed to meet with city chief administrative officer David Trawin and three other city staff members without a third party present, Kamloops This Week has learned. This measure, and others, has been implemented after an investigation into complaints of inappropriate conduct at city hall found the mayor violated council’s code of conduct numerous times by disrespecting and/or demeaning three employees who filed complaints against him in February.

The mayor was found to not have violated the code of conduct with respect to a complaint from a fourth employee.

The City of Kamloops hired Vancouver firm The Integrity Group to investigate the allegations. The report, obtained by KTW, is dated May 31 and council first saw it in an incamera meeting on June 13.

As a result of the investigation, the mayor is currently prohibited from making telephone calls to or meeting in person with

In addition, any written communication, including emails, from Hamer-Jackson to the complainants initially goes through a councillor, appointed as a liaison, who is vetting the messages.

The councillor has the authority not to forward communication from the mayor that contains inappropriate or offensive language or material.

The complainants are Trawin and three other city employees.

Investigator Terry Honcharuk found Hamer-Jackson’s conduct violated the code of conduct numerous times with Trawin and a second employee, and once with a third employee. Honcharuk found the mayor’s conduct described by a fourth employee did not violate the code of conduct.

In the report, Honcharuk found all the complainants credible and accepted their evidence.

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

See LOUD ARGUMENT, A7

Bill C-18

How to ensure you stay connected to local news

Google and Meta (parent company of Facebook and Instagram) have vowed to block Canadian news links and content from their platforms in response to the federal government’s Online News Act (Bill C-18), which requires the companies to pay Canadian media outlets for posting or linking to their news content. Both Google and Meta have been experimenting with blocking access to Canadian news on their respective sites, as some users in Kamloops and across Canada may have experienced. Meta has indicated it will shortly block all Canadians from seeing news. This serves as an ideal time to remind readers of KTW to follow us on Twitter (@KamThisWeek) and to sign up for our FREE NEWSLETTER, emailed to subscribers every weekday morning. It includes local news you need to know, links to other great reads and an assortment of interesting facts. Sign up now at kamloopsthisweek.com/account/mailinglist.

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