OPENING CEREMONY IS AT THE TOURNAMENT CAPITAL CENTRE ON THURSDAY, FEB. 2, AT 7 P.M. ADMISSION IS FREE. SPORTING EVENTS TAKE PLACE AT VARIOUS VENUES ON FRIDAY, FEB. 3, AND SATURDAY, FEB. 4, MOST WITH FREE ADMISSION. TURN TO PAGES A22 AND A23 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
when we have to — but now that it’s less of an emergency, a review of how to align and make fair and equitable [programming] is in order.”
Asmall business owner in Kamloops feels a review of legislation introduced by the B.C. government a year ago is overdue.
In January 2022, full- and part-time employees in the province became eligible for five paid sick days annually after working for at least 90 days.
The provincial government said the legislation was introduced in an effort to improve working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mitchell Forgie, owner of the Red Beard Café and coowner of Bright Eye Brewing, said the majority of small businesses support the decision to improve working conditions for their employees, but added there are aspects of the way
the process was implemented that could be revisited.
“I think paid sick days are good,” Forgie told KTW
“It’s just that right now, the incentives and administration are not where they should be. The province rushed this as an emergency stopgap, which is totally fine — we all do that
Forgie said there are complexities for business owners.
“Combined with the employer health tax, this has increased the cost of payroll by 25 per cent in the last year, while the staff themselves have not seen a noticeable increase in their own take-home wage,” Forgie said.
“There are also costs associated with the administration of who has taken their days, and when, and accounting for that.”
He believes the situation becomes increasingly complex — and costly — for employers when their staff members have more than one job.
See ENTREPRENEUR, A12
ONE YEAR AGO, THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT CREATED LEGISLATION THAT GAVE EMPLOYEES FIVE PAID SICK DAYS
BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com
Feb 1, 2023
The public, media, delegations, and staff are encouraged to par ticipate in meetings vir tually through Zoom or to observe through the City YouTube channel
Februar y 7, 2023
1:30 pm - Community Relations and Reconciliation Committee
Februar y 9, 2023
1:30 pm - Community and Protective Ser vice Committee
Februar y 14, 2023
10:00 am - Committee of the Whole
Februar y 22, 2023
1:30 pm - Development and Sustainability Committee
Februar y 27, 2023
1:30 pm - Civic Operations Committee
Februar y 28, 2023
1:30 pm - Regular Council Meeting
The complete 2023 Council Calendars is available online at: Kamloops.ca/CouncilPor tal
Sign up for the Council Highlights e -newsletter at: Kamloops.ca/Subscribe
The Bunker Road and Barnhar tvale Yard Waste Sites are now closed for the season. Cinnamon Ridge remains open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily
The Sandman Centre concourse is available for walk ing Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm until April 2023. Due to K amloops Blazers home games and concer t schedules, some designated walk ing dates may not be available
With the current warm weather trend, you may notice more potholes popping up on our streets If you see a pothole, please slow down and proceed with caution We can only fill the ones we are aware of, so help us by repor ting a pothole with the MyK amloops app at: Kamloops.ca/MyKamloops
The City would like to consult and engage with residents about the 2023 budget, as we plan for the next five -year budget c ycle, from 2023 to 2027. Join staff and Council on Wednesday, Februar y 15, 2023, at 7:00 pm in the Spor ts Centre Lounge at McAr thur Island Spor t & Events Centre for an update and discussion on the provisional budget
Par ticipants will also learn about and discuss a number of business cases brought for ward by City staff and community groups, which Council will consider as additional budget items this year
This will be the first budget approved by the newly elected City Council Let them k now your perspective on how it will affect you and your community
For up -to - date event information and to subscribe for updates, visit: LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/Budget2023
Do you have an older, uncer tified wood-burning appliance? Scrap it or upgrade it and you could be eligible for rebates!
Wood Stove Scrap -It Program
• $400 rebate to homeowners who remove an uncer tified wood-burning stove (without replacing it).
• pre -registration is required to determine program eligibility
Community Wood Smoke Reduc tion Program
• rebate of up to $1,500 to homeowners who remove and replace an uncer tified woodburning appliance with a new, low- emission heating appliance from an authorized program retailer
• eligible appliances include electric inser ts or heat pumps, and EPA- cer tified wood or pellet appliances
For a list of authorized program retailers and to find out if you qualify for rebates, visit: Kamloops.ca/WoodStove
Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461
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MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.comThe City of Kamloops will no longer collect recycling from residents who continue to put garbage and other non-recyclable materials into their blue bins.
The municipality is looking for more cooperation with its recycling program after a recent report showed consistently high contamination rates in residents’ recycle bins over the past three years.
Contamination occurs when material that is not accepted for collection under Recycle BC guidelines ends up in curbside recycling.
“As a collector under the provincial Recycle BC program, the city is obligated to meet a contamination target rate of three per cent,” Glen Farrow, the city’s streets and environmental services manager said in a release.
However, the city has found its average contamination rate during the last three years has been more than 10 per cent, resulting in fines from Recycle BC, creating reduced payments to the city for its collection services.
In 2022, the City of Kamloops was fined a dozen times, totalling $60,000.
The most common contaminant Kamloops residents throw into their recycling bins is garbage residue, followed by books, clothing, durable plastics such as toys, wood, scrap metal and electronics, according to Recycle BC audits.
Audits also showed many Kamloopsians put “a significant amount” of glass, Styrofoam and plastic bags into their blue bins, but those items have to be dropped off for recycling at Recycle BC depots.
A large amount of recyclables were also unsortable because they were bagged or nested (for example, a plastic container placed inside a box), whereas recycling materials should be placed loose in carts and bins.
Farrow said warning letters for the worst offenders have been unsuccessful in gaining compliance, so the city has now decided to suspend recycling collection in the event city staff have directly made those individuals aware of their infractions.
“The new approach will put some responsibility back on the resident to resolve the issue,”
Catch up on all the sports news in Canada’s Tournament Capital
BC Interior Community Foundation executive director Wenda Noonan (left) joins KTW general manager Ray Jolicoeur (far right) in giving cheques to KTW Christmas Cheer Fund recipients. Receiving the funds are Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism executive director Wanda Eddy (second from left), Y Women’s Emergency Shelter general manager Jacquie Brand, Kamloops Therapeutic Riding Association executive director Ashley Sudds, BC SPCA community giving senior officer Katie Klassen and Kamloops Brain Injury Association executive director David Johnson. KTW readers donated $62,000 to the KTW Christmas Cheer Fund in 2022. DAVE EAGLES/KTW
Farrow said.
The majority of recycling bins in Kamloops, however, appear to be in compliance.
In 2022, city staff inspected more than 7,000 recycling carts, finding 89 per cent were categorized as having minimal contamination and the other 11 per cent categorized as either fair or poor, meaning high contamination — often containing a significant amount of garbage or hazardous material.
The municipality typically leaves a notice informing residents of any missorted items, along with educational material outlining what is accepted in residential recycling.
Accepted items in City of Kamloops recycling bins include cartons, aluminum, plastic and steel containers, paper, cardboard and paper packaging. The bins do not accept glass, cookware, scrap metal, toys, foam packaging, plastic bags, paint and hazardous waste.
The city also has an organic waste pilot program expected to roll out city-wide this fall.
For more information, residents can visit Kamloops.ca/Recycling or contact the city’s civic operations department at 250-828-3461.
KAMLOOPS THISWEEK
Kamloops saw more people than ever die due to illicit drug toxicity in 2022, with 90 deaths recorded — 13 more than in 2021, which was the previous record year for such deaths.
The latest BC Coroners Service report indicates 2,272 deaths occurred across B.C. in the 2022 calendar year. That figure is second only to the 2,306 people who died in 2021 and is among the worst three years — all during the pandemic — for drug deaths in B.C.’s history.
Provincewide, illicit drugs claimed lives at a rate of 43 per 100,000 people.
The hardest-hit health region, Northern Health, saw deaths at a rate of
60 per 100,000, while Kamloops’ Interior Health region saw rates of 46 deaths per 100,000.
Ten more people died in Interior Health due to illicit drugs in 2022 compared to 2021, with 388 people lost. The most lives were lost in the Fraser Health region, where 680 deaths occurred, followed by 637 in Vancouver Coastal Health.
Chief coroner Lisa Lapointe said in 2022, drug toxicity remained the leading cause of death in the province.
“Our province continues to lose an average of six lives every day, and many more people experience serious health consequences as a result of the unpredictable, unregulated drug supply,” Lapointe said.
The province declared a public health emergency over increasing drug deaths in April 2016 and, since then, the coroners’ service has attributed 11,171 deaths to that cause.
In 2022, 70 per cent of those who died were between the ages of 30 and 59 and nearly 80 per cent were male. Vancouver (562), Surrey (232) and Victoria (157) were the municipalities where the most people died, followed by Kamloops, where 90 lives were lost in 2022.
Since 2012, there have been 408 illicit drug-related deaths in Kamloops.
Fentanyl (or its analogues) was detected in 82 per cent of all illicit drug related deaths in 2022, according to the report.
KAMLOOPS THISWEEK
British Columbia has become a testing ground for the decriminalization of narcotics and opioids as the country grapples with extensive fatal drug overdoses.
In B.C., more than 10,000 people have died from overdoses since the province declared a public health emergency in April 2016.
During the trial period — from Jan. 31, 2022, to Jan. 31, 2026 — police will not arrest, charge or seize the drugs of adults in British Columbians if they possess up to 2.5 grams of certain illegal drugs for personal use.
At the request of the provincial government, Health Canada has granted B.C. a subsection 56(1) exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to decriminalize people who use drugs.
The federal exemption covers illicit versions
of opioids such as heroin, morphine and fentanyl, as well as crack and powder cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy).
Government and health officials believe the exemption will get more people into treatment and diminish the stigma around it. Whether it results in fewer overdose deaths remains to be seen.
“We know criminalization drives people to use alone. Given the increasingly toxic drug supply, using alone can be fatal,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Jennifer Whiteside said.
“Decriminalizing people who use drugs breaks down the fear and shame associated with substance use and ensures they feel safer reaching out for life-saving supports.”
This exemption does not mean drugs are legalized. The drugs included in the
exemption remain illegal, but adults who are found in possession of a cumulative total of up to 2.5 grams of the drugs will no longer be arrested, charged or have their drugs seized, if abiding by the scope and conditions of the exemption.
Instead, police have been instructed to offer information on available health and social supports, as well as local treatment and recovery options.
Of note, drug possession in any amount will continue to be a criminal offence on elementary and secondary school grounds and at licensed child-care facilities. Nor does the decriminalization of possession apply to those ages 17 and under.
Youths found in possession of any amount of illegal drugs are subject to the federal Youth Criminal Justice Act, in which they are offered alternatives to criminal charges in some cases.
With the mantra of living one day at a time being the cornerstone for many people coping with substance abuse and alcohol addiction, the Kamloops Society for Alcohol and Drug Services (KSADS) has chosen an appropriate name in rebranding itself.
In a press conference on Monday, Jan. 30, at the Paramount Theatre downtown, KSADS team announced that, going forward, the society will be known as the Day One Society, with the hope that services will continue to expand in the future.
Although the legal name of the society had been the Kamloops Society for Alcohol and Drug Services, people have commonly referred to it as the Phoenix Centre, which is the name of the building that houses the society’s offices and detox services. The name Phoenix Centre will live on, but as a part of Day One Society.
“Each day represents a new beginning with endless possibilities when you’re in recovery,” Day One Society chair Marilyn McLean told
attendees from the podium.
The decision was announced as part of the society’s 50th anniversary, commemorating its service in the community from its inception in 1973, when it was known as the Parents’ Alert Society.
The daylong event began with opening remarks from executive director Sian Lewis.
“We all know that everyone needs help at some point in their lives,” Lewis said.
Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc
Kúkpi7 (Chief) Roseanne Casimir welcomed the announcement in honour of her late grandmother’s service to recovery and sang the Welcome Song in her memory to thank the creator for all the people in the community and the land.
“I’m so grateful for this announcement,” Casimir said, noting people from all walks of life deserve access to resources. “When I heard about the 50 years, one day at a time campaign, I heard my grandmother’s voice singing
Secwépemc songs.”
McLean added that on any given day, the wait list at the Day One Society has 25 people eager to begin their recovery journeys at Phoenix Centre.
Thirty-five per cent of the program participants at are Indigenous and 60 per cent are men.
“A wait list when someone wants to get into detox is simply unacceptable,” McLean said.
The campaign stems from a desire to ensure those in need of
treatment options have access to a multi-faceted organization that offers detox, counselling, recovery services and bursary programs. In an effort to drive that campaign forward, the Day One Society concluded its announcement with the premiere of a short film and closing remarks that illustrated the critical importance of sobriety, beginning with the first 24 hours in recovery. For more information about the organization or to view its latest short, go online to dayonesociety.ca.
We are pleased to welcome Caleigh Treissman as an associate with our firm
Called to the bar on Dec 22/22 , Caleigh joined our firm after completing her Juris Doctor at UVic (2021) and a BC Supreme Cour t Clerkship (2022). Before law school, she completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Hons ) at Queen's Universit y. Planning to focus her practice in Local G overnment law, Caleigh is an innately calm, intuitive thinker who enjoys developing innovative solutions to even the most complex situations
Outside of the office, Caleigh loves skiing, whether it be downhill, cross countr y or water. If she's not honing her skills on the slopes or the lake, Caleigh is likely finding a way to spend more time in the great outdoors, especially if it involves hiking, or her family, friends and dog, Jib.
Congratulations Caleigh, from all of us at Fulton!
The warm, humid air from the ventilation system blows heat gently against my arms and legs as I saunter across the pool deck in my swimsuit at the Tournament Capital Centre.
Breathing shallowly to mitigate the pungent smell of chlorine from entering my nasal passages, I walk past the participants in the bronze medallion course and scan the room. Most of the participants are at least a decade younger than me and I pause for a moment to ponder if my friend Julien was correct — am I going to be the oldest one in the class?
The bronze medallion, the Lifesaving Society’s flagship certification, is a prerequisite for the Bronze Cross training program to become an assistant lifeguard. The program focuses on four components of water rescue education: judgment, knowl-
edge, skill and fitness. The goal is to help participants form critical thinking skills to solve complex problems both in and around the water during their progression to becoming a lifesaver or a lifeguard.
In Ohpikináwasowin Growing a Child: Implementing Indigenous Ways of Knowing with Indigenous
Families, authored by a collection of Indigenous contributors from nations all over Canada with the support of traditional knowledge keepers and elders, the topic of seeking wisdom is explored from the perspective of “two worlds:” Western and Indigenous worldviews.
As a Swampy Cree-Métis citizen who grew up with no direct ties to the community or to my paternal family, I read this book two years ago, before the idea of taking a swimming program was even a consideration in my mind. At that time, I was in search of stories about my family’s culture and personal experiences from Indigenous storytellers to develop a deeper understanding of my estranged paternal roots.
It isn’t easy to access stories from different perspectives in different voices and I was pleasantly surprised to find a book of this nature during a visit to Calgary.
That’s when it hit me, pool-side
— the collection of lessons from Ohpikinåwasowin taught me that while the Western worldview is dominated by hitting major milestones in life, the Indigenous worldview is focused on sharing a common understanding of the interconnectedness between the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual realms.
Both schools of thought are multi-dimensional, but the key difference for me was that the Indigenous worldview values the fact that everyone goes through the eight interconnected stages of life at their own pace — eventually reaching all of them.
Instead of participating in the bronze medallion course when it opens up to people at the age 13, I was doing it at 33.
Prioritizing competing in sports, or even against myself, never gained much traction when I was younger, but as an adult living with medical conditions, being active quickly became a necessity in recent years.
Swimming is a low-impact sport that doesn’t put a lot of strain on muscles and joints while exercising — the perfect solution for a year-round activity. And they say it takes just 21 days to build a new habit.
The bronze medallion course requires participants to swim 400 metres within 12 minutes as part of an endurance swim, while also simulating victim recognition, tows, carries, entries, removals, defenses and releases, submerged victim recoveries and drowning resuscitation for children and adults.
The opportunity to seek wisdom never expires and the value of selfactualization can last a lifetime. I’m grateful to have completed the program successfully and was proud to tell my six-year-old son that I passed my “swimming lessons,” as he affectionately called it over the span of a fortnight.
breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com
The Kamloops-Thompson board of education was honoured to have Education Minister Rachna Singh join us on Jan. 22 to learn about our 2022-2027 district strategic plan priorities in connection to her mandate letter.
We appreciated how open Singh was to learn about our district and that she sought to have genuine conversation about the needs of our communities. We shared our urgent need for more space and our passion and dedication for co-creating inclusive spaces in our district.
In her mandate letter, Singh aims to respond to the needs of fast-growing communities. To that end, we shared that we desperately need financial support in this year’s provincial budget for a new school in
KTW
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Pineview Valley as Kamloops is among the top five fastest -growing communities in BC.
On May 19, 2021, then-education minister Jennifer Whiteside announced support for a business case for a Pineview Valley school. Since April 2021, we have completed 13 school catchment area changes, impacting 25 per cent of our K-7 schools, and re–opened a school in Valleyview.
McGowan Park elementary is at 160 per cent utilization capacity, with four portables. The three nearby schools that would be eli-
gible to undergo a redistribution of students through a catchment change are at approximately 150 per cent utilization capacity, on average, so they are overly full and relying on portables.
There is no room in nearby schools to do a catchment area change, so our only option is a new school in Pineview Valley.
We also shared that we urgently need a financial contribution of $7.5 million in this year’s provincial budget to purchase the Pacific Way site for a secondary school in Aberdeen.
In five years, students in southwest Kamloops will need a secondary school as the current high schools are anticipated to be at 146 per cent capacity.
On April 11, 2022, we had written to Whiteside to share that we have a one-time chance to buy the only existing land available in Aberdeen for a price of $6.1 million, prior to December 31, 2022.
We still have this option, but there is immense pressure on the owner to sell and the cost of the land has increased.
Securing this land is crucial to support our current and future secondary capacity needs in southwest Kamloops.
We also shared our connection to the minister’s mandate letter by declaring our passion for and dedication to co-creating inclusivespaces by working directly with students.
See ANTI-RACISM, A9
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Editor:
Re: The Jan. 8 letter from Heide Neighbor (‘ Kamloops needs more level 3 EV chargers ’):
This was the purpose of Singh’s visit — to launch the province’s K-12 anti-racism action plan during the first Student Equity Council Summit, held at the Henry Grube Education Centre, where more than 150 students co-developed an SD73 K-12 Anti-racism action plan.
The students shared powerful stories with the minister and her team, which included assistant deputy minister Jennifer McCrae and associate superintendent of Indigenous education Brad Baker. Everyone was moved by the
leadership shown by the students who gifted us with their lived experiences as our starting point for co-creating a district anti-racism action plan.
We enjoyed our visit with Singh and we truly appreciated that she made our district her first stop in her new role as minister of education and child care.
Rhonda Kershaw is vice-chair of the Kamloops-Thompson board of education. Kershaw’s email address is rkershaw@sd73.bc.ca. SD73 columns appear monthly in KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.
I’m an avid reader of KTW who was extremely disappointed to see the printing of a letter that is misleading and, in fact, contains false information.
I’ve been a very satisfied electric vehicle owner for two years. I drive my vehicle in Kamloops and have taken two long (5,000-kilometre) return trips to Winnipeg.
There are numerous level 3 chargers in Kamloops and, in fact, they are not overly expensive,
especially when compared with gasoline purchase for equivalent travel.
While chargers are not abundant, their numbers roughly match electric vehicle numbers currently on the roads.
Clearly, highway travel requires some planning, but a 45-minute charge on the highway (e.g. at Golden) is not a huge burden, in my opinion.
The aforementioned letter serves only to mislead people promoting the myth (even conspiracy) that electric vehicles are bad for people and even the environment.
Carl Pentilchuk KamloopsEditor:
Municipal staff work very closely with their council on a daily basis and it is extremely important that both parties understand their roles and responsibilities.
I know this as I have worked in the municipal
world for more than 30 years.
When I read in KTW about the team-building workshop that typically happens at the beginning of any term of council, and the mayor being absent and his reasons why, I was
almost speechless.
Staff put a lot of work into these workshops. It allows them to communicate better with council and helps to keep everyone on track and focused collectively.
It is truly a disappointment to see that the head
of Kamloops council doesn’t feel that way. Council is a team. Staff are part of that team. The mayor has to be part of that team to keep the team united, not disjointed.
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
More than a year after the body of a Kamloops teen was found in a parking lot on the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc reserve, his murder remains unsolved.
The body of 18-year-old Sa-Hali secondary student Jagraj Dhinsa was found on Jan. 29, 2022, in the shared parking lot of St. Joseph’s Church and Cemetery and Quemtsin Health Society in the 100-block of Chilcotin Road.
Kamloops RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn told KTW there is no update in the murder investigation, noting police currently do not have any “releasable” information to provide the public at this time that would help further the investigation.
Evelyn added, however, it is important to keep news of the death in the public eye.
Kamloops RCMP continues
to encourage anyone with information that has yet to speak with police to reach out to the authorities.
Evelyn said investigators are not disclosing information pertaining to any potential suspects unless charges are approved.
According to the RCMP, Dhinsa was found with “obvious injuries” that caused his death, but police have not revealed the manner in which he was killed — a decision they say is to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Police are not revealing whether they believe Dhinsa’s body was left in the parking lot or if they believe he was killed there.
A staff member at Quemtsin told KTW a year ago police seized its security footage, which overlooks the parking lot. The staff member said no criminal activity can be seen in the video.
Evidence at the scene linked Dhinsa to a black Honda
Accord, which was found at 12:45 p.m. on Jan. 29 — the same day Dhinsa’s body was discovered — parked along Dallas Drive near Lafarge Road, 24 kilometres to the east. Police have not said whether they believe the murder is connected to organized crime.
The investigation into Dhinsa’s murder is ongoing and being led by the RCMP Southeast District’s major crimes unit, with the support of the Kamloops RCMP’s serious crime unit.
Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley previously told KTW he is kept abreast of the investigation, describing it last fall as making progress.
Dhinsa was a Grade 12 student in his final year of study when he was slain.
Anyone with footage of, or information about, Dhinsa or the black Honda from Jan. 28, 2022, to Jan. 29, 2022 is asked to call the police information line at 1-877-987-8477.
The body of 18-year-old Jagraj Dhinsa was found on Jan. 29, 2022, in the shared parking lot of St. Joseph’s Church and Cemetery and Quemtsin Health Society in the 100-block of Chilcotin Road. He had been murdered. Police say the investigation into his death continues. Below, a roadside memorial was created near St. Joseph’s Church in the days following the discovery of Dhinsa’s body.
B.C.’s information and privacy commissioner says artificial intelligence will present challenges to his office as the technology continues to emerge.
Michael McEvoy, who is serving his sixth and final year as the province’s information and privacy commissioner, spoke at Thompson Rivers University’s privacy and security conference, which took place on Jan. 26.
McEvoy said his office has tackled these issues in the past. Its most recent intervention was with an American company called Clearview AI.
The commissioner and his office worked with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada and other privacy commissioners from Alberta and Quebec in its investigation of the company.
McEvoy said Clearview AI was found to be operating contrary to Canadian laws and, in December 2021, the company was ordered to delete facial imagery it had
NOTICE
PM
Febr uar y 7,
Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Mun cipality Council gives not ce that it will hold a Public Hearing at the Sun Peaks Centre located at 3200 Vil age Way, Sun Peaks to consider proposed Temporary Use Permits No 2022-007 No 2022-008 and 2019-007R
What is Temporary Use Permit TUP-2022-007?
TUP-2022-007, f approved, will continue perm tting short-term nightly tourist accommodation in 2224 Sunburst Drive (legally descr bed as Lot 12 DLs 6259 and 6337 KDYD P an KAP 53479) in three bedrooms of the principal dwel ing
collected and to stop offering its facial recognition services.
Clearview AI had built up a massive database of faces and was selling that information to law enforcement, including the RCMP.
That case is still before the courts, but some others like it have already been resolved.
McEvoy pointed to the 2011 Stanley Cup riots where, after the Vancouver Canucks’ failed Stanley Cup run, cars were overturned in the streets of Vancouver and businesses were looted. In the aftermath, police and others set out to identify those seen in photos and videos.
“ICBC had volunteered to turn over its facial recognition software to law enforcement to identify some of the alleged vandals. That drew the attention of a lot of people,” McEvoy said.
Ultimately, police were not interested in using the data.
In a more recent intervention, McEvoy’s office ordered the destruction of about five-million images collected by equipment in mall kiosks in the
Lower Mainland.
McEvoy said Cadillac Fairview, owner of the Pacific Centre Mall in downtown Vancouver and other major shopping centres, had been covertly collecting images of mall users to collect information on age, gender and people’s movement.
The data was deleted following the office’s report.
Despite the successful interventions, further reform is still needed, McEvoy said.
At the conclusion of his presentation, McEvoy showed images of the Wright Brothers in 1903, sitting on their plane after their first flight, and Mark Zuckerberg in 2004, sitting at a computer following the launch of Facebook.
McEvoy noted that it took about 20 years after the Wright Brothers’ first flight for the first flight safety regulations to be put in place and he urged lawmakers and representatives to pay attention to emerging issues like AI and data collection.
“It takes a while to catch up sometimes, but now we’re in the process of that happening,” McEvoy said.
What is Temporary Use Permit TUP-2022-008?
TUP-2022-008, if approved, w ll permit short-term nightly tourist accommodation in 2533 Mounta n V ew Drive ( egal y described as Lot 9 DL 6451 KDYD Plan KAP76953) in three bedrooms of the pr ncipa dwelling
What is Temporary Use Permit TUP-2019-007R?
TUP-2019-007R, if approved wil continue permitting short-term nightly tourist accommodation in 1328 Drive ( egal y described as Strata Lot B DL 5957 KDYD Plan EPS4902 and an undiv ded 1/54 share of Lot 51, DL 6282) in the one-bedroom legal suite
A l persons who believe that the r interest in property may be affected by the proposed Bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the Pub ic Hear ng Add t onal y they may make written submissions on the matter of this Bylaw (via any of the below opt ons) which must be received at our office prior to 4:00 p m on the 2nd day of February, 2023 The entire content of al submissions w ll be made public and form a part of the public record on this matter
How do I get more information?
A copy of the proposed Bylaws and al supporting nformat on can be inspected from 8:30 a m to 4:00 p m , MondayFriday at our office until 4:00 p m the day of the Hear ng; or p ease contact us via any of the be ow options.
No representat ons wi l be rece ved by Counci after the Pub ic Hear ng has been conc uded
Nicky Jonsson, Director of Corporate Services
Phone: 250-578-2020
Emai : admin@sunpeaksmunicipality ca
Website: www sunpeaksmunicipality ca
The Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association (KCBIA) downtown believes the changes for paid sick leave have been positive for the majority of employees, in spite of initial feedback it heard from entrepreneurs when the plan was rolled out last year.
“Although the five days had some pushback from the business community, I haven’t heard anything terribly detrimental,” KCBIA executive director Howie Reimer told KTW
“Here at Downtown KCBIA, we have five sick days and most people haven’t used it up.”
However, Reimer believes there will always be instances in which employees fall through the cracks and either come to work sick or take advantage of staying home when they’re not sick enough to miss work.
“With any system, nothing is perfect, but I think it’s important if people are sick, they’re staying home,” he said. “I do believe that sick days are important and we
hope that people use them when they need them.”
North Shore Business Improvement Association executive director Jeremey Heighton said he is drafting a report to flag complexities identified by local business owners and operators.
He believes these issues impact communities across the province and hopes other business improvement associations will recognize the value of raising concerns with the provincial government.
“If you take a seven per cent anticipated inflation rate and applied it to the minimum wage profile, the cost of five days of sick leave per employee per year is approximately $9,737 per 13 employees,” Heighton said.
“So, if you have five sick days for every 13 employees, the cost at approximately $20 per hour for your organization is $9,737. If you triple that to 15 days of sick time at that rate, it would now be approximately $29,000,” he said.
“If you add that to a seven per cent wage hike … the actual cost to a business is somewhere around $85,000 a year. That’s assuming
you have 13 employees each paid $20 an hour.”
Federal employees and workers in private, federally regulated businesses are entitled to 10 paid sick days per year in public service.
The BC Federation of Labour has called for 15 days of paid sick leave. If that is implemented for all businesses in B.C., Heighton said there will be significant costs to operating.
“There are other costs which will also be hitting businesses in the pocketbook this year — increased food costs for restaurants, 40 per cent year over year, increased minimum wage tied to inflation is expected to be around seven per cent and, in many cases, the increased minimum wage will mean that employers will tip over the $500,000 per year threshold and have to pay health premiums,” Heighton said.
“Add to this increased property valuations and the associated increase to property tax bills, increased costs of all utilities and the shortage of labour and this could be a failure year for many businesses in Canada.”
WORKERS: They can take up to five days of paid leave per year for any personal illness or injury. Their employer may request reasonably sufficient proof of illness. This entitlement is in addition to the three days of unpaid sick leave currently provided under the Employment Standards Act. Employees must have worked with their employer for at least 90 days to be eligible for paid sick days.
EMPLOYERS: They are required to provide eligible employees with up to five days of paid sick leave per year if they need to stay home because they are sick or injured. Employers need to pay their employees their regular wages for these days. They do not have to be taken consecutively. Employees are also entitled to three days of unpaid sick leave.
ELIGIBILITY: Paid sick leave entitlement applies to all employees covered by the Employment Standards Act, including part-time, temporary or casual employees. The Employment Standards Act doesn’t cover certain types of employees, including federally regulated sectors, self-employed workers or independent contractors and employees in professions and occupations excluded from the Employment Standards Act. For more on eligbility, go online to tinyurl.com/2s3mh37w.
DAVE“For the business what was three-to-four hours paid, is now three-to-four hours for the person covering the shift, plus three-tofour hours for the person who was not able to come in,” Forgie said.
“If that person has two or three part-time jobs, they actually get 15 sick days per year, as they get five at each job, or if they change jobs three times in a year, they get five sick days at each job.
“Many people move jobs, or work many jobs, for multitudes of reasons — especially when they are young and in school and move around a lot — as many hospitality workers do and are.”
While Forgie said he supports paid sick days, he remains hopeful the business community will have an opportunity to share their opinions on the process in time.
“Essentially, I would say paid sick days are fantastic,” Forgie said. “People, especially in tough positions like hospitality, need security.”
With COVID-19 in mind, the concept of taking sick days arguably became more acceptable from a social standpoint, but the cost of taxes, inflation and shrink-
flation further complicated the way these kinds of changes impact small business owners, Forgie explained.
He said his employees used all five of their paid sick days in the last fiscal year, noting he had no concerns that anybody was abusing their entitlements.
Forgie remains optimistic that a public review of paid sick leave in B.C. could serve to keep the doors of many small businesses open if innovative solutions could be implemented.
“I would suggest that sick days should be administered and paid out by EI [the federal employment insurance program],” he said.
“Most people pay into EI their whole lives and do not collect it. That way, whether a staff person takes five days, or 15 days, all people get it regardless of how many jobs they have or how often they move around.
“In a massive demographic bubble with so many people retiring and leaving the workforce, and that labour shortage seeing no sign of easing, EI applied to this purpose seems to me to be applicable.”
BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com
A Pinantan Lake man charged with second-degree murder in connection with a fatal stabbing at a downtown motel in 2020 has been convicted by a jury of the lesser charge of manslaughter.
On Sept. 12, 2020, James Sanford, 34, stabbed and killed 33-year-old Daniel Thomas
Myles on Sept. 12, 2020, near Canada’s Best Value Inn (formerly the Acadian Inn) in the 1300-block of Columbia Street in downtown Kamloops.
Sanford, who had no prior criminal record, had been on bail since December 2020, living with his mother in the Paul Lake/Pinantan area under conditions.
During the trial in B.C. Supreme Court in Kamloops,
court heard that Sanford and Myles had been involved in an ongoing conflict for three months before the fatal stabbing, a dispute that includes verbal threats and acts of vandalism
Defence lawyer Jay Michi argued his client was acting in self-defence on that fateful day.
“We’re just happy it’s not a murder conviction,” Michi told KTW after the verdict was delivered on Jan. 26, commending
the jury for working very hard to apply logic to its decision.
Sanford, who remains free on bail, will return to court on Feb. 6 to set a date for sentencing.
A conviction of manslaughter carries with it a wide range of possible sentences, from a suspended sentence (no jail time) to life in prison.
Most sentences in court, however, fall within the four-to10-year range.
JAMES SANFORD
BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com
A 42-year-old Kamloops woman has pleaded guilty to several counts of arson, charges related to a string of intentionally set fires in the Kamloops area last spring.
Angela Elise Cornish entered the guilty pleas on Jan. 26 in Kamloops provincial court before Judge Stella Frame.
Cornish was arrested on May 11, 2022,
and charged with multiple counts of arson following a joint investigation between the BC RCMP and BC Wildfire Service into a series of fires that were set in the Lac Le Jeune and Monte Lake areas.
The charges originally sworn against Cornish were connected to four fires — one in Monte Lake on April 30 and three in Lac Le Jeune between May 7 and May 11 of last year
On April 30, 2022, police said at the time,
a resident in the Monte Lake area east of Kamloops encountered a suspicious vehicle on a forestry road while investigating smoke in the hills.
The resident took note of the licence plate on the pickup truck and reported it to the RCMP.
Other residents then reported to police their own encounters with the vehicle, driven by a woman.
Crown counsel Evan Goulet requested
a pre-sentence report to be completed within six weeks. Cornish’s counsel, Brad Smith, was in agreement with Goulet’s request. The matter will return to court on March 9.
Monte Lake, about 45 kilometres east of Kamloops on Highway 97, saw many homes and structures destroyed by flames in the summer of 2021 when the White Rock Lake wildfire ripped through the community.
Bones found near Peterson Creek last week were those of a missing Kelowna man, Joseph Driscoll.
Criminality is not suspected in his death. Kamloops Mounties confirmed on Friday (Jan. 27) that the bones have been linked to the 42-year-old man
who was last seen walking around the Valleyview area in the early-morning hours of Nov. 12, 2022.
On Jan. 19, police received a report of suspected human bones discovered east of Peterson Creek, west of Rose Hill, above the 700-block of the East Trans Canada Highway.
“In working with the BC Coroners Service and with the Driscoll family, police can now confirm the bones did in fact belong to Joseph and that he is deceased,” Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said. “We do not suspect criminality in his disappearance at this time. Our thoughts go out to the Driscoll family.”
Evelyn said the Driscoll family has requested privacy.
Driscoll was in Kamloops to attend a concert on Nov. 11. That night, he was driving his 2016 black Ford F-350 when it was stopped by police, who impounded the vehicle.
Driscoll was not arrested and was seen on video at
about 11:50 p.m. walking away from the Tournament Inn at 1893 TransCanada Hwy E. Less than two hours later, at about 1:30 a.m. on Nov. 12, a security camera captured an image of Driscoll at another Valleyview motel. About 15 minutes later, he was seen in the 1700-block of the East TransCanada Highway in Valleyview, near Wendy’s and McDonald’s.
Driscoll worked in Northern B.C. as an electrician.
Police and the BC Coroners Service continue to work on concurrent investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the discovery of Joseph’s remains.
Anyone with information regarding the investigation, or who may have come across any other bones in the area, is asked to call Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and reference file 2023-2261.
BREANNE MASSEY STAFF REPORTER breanne@kamloopsthisweek.com
A Cherry Creek man with four dangerous-driving convictions and a conviction for failing to stop for police has been handed a one-year suspended sentence for his latest transgressions — driving while prohibited and failing to stop for police.
The latest incident took place in Cherry Creek on Aug. 18, 2021, when Richard J.E. Marshall, 44, was seen driving a motorcycle on Highway 1 near the gas station in Cherry Creek at 166 km/h while having no licence.
In Kamloops provincial court on Jan. 26, Judge Stella Frame heard that when police attempted to pull him over for speeding, Marshall accelerated and Mounties chased him until they deemed it unsafe to do so. Court heard police continued to travel along Highway 1. When traffic slowed, and police saw that Marshall was stuck in the congestion, they pursued him again, eventually stopping him and learning he was prohibited from driving.
“Your record is really quite horrendous,” Frame told Marshall before handing down a 12-month suspended sentence, a penalty requested by Crown prosecutor Evan Goulet and two months more than suggested by defence lawyer John Gustafson.
In addition, Marshall was
levied a three-year driving prohibition, fined $1,000, to be paid within 10 months, and ordered to serve 25 hours of community service within the next 10 months.
Marshall has a long record of dangerous driving convictions in 2005, 2007, 2008 and 2009 as well as a 2004 conviction for failing to stop for police. His outstanding 2010 warrant was waived Jan. 26 for appearing in provincial court on new charges.
Marshall declined to speak when asked if he had any comments for the court before a sentence was determined.
Gustafson told court Marshall had been homeless at a young age and began struggling with opiate addiction early in his life. Gustafson said Marshall supports four children with his current partner in Cherry Creek and supports a daughter in Quebec.
Gustafson said Marshall’s common-law partner has been driving Marshall to work in downtown Kamloops, where he was expected to begin leadership training last week.
Gustafson said Marshall also volunteers weekly at the Out of the Cold Shelter program in Kamloops.
Following his sentence, Marshall asked Frame if snowmobiles and dirt bikes were included in his driving prohibition and Gustafson jumped in to tell him that he would be given advice after court.
JOSEPH DRISCOLL WAS LAST SEEN WALKING AROUND THE VALLEYVIEW AREA IN THE EARLY-MORNING HOURS OF NOV. 12, 2022
Failure to remove ammonia from a refrigeration system ahead of disassembly and miscommunication have been cited by Technical Safety BC as factors that to the death of a worker at an ice-making facility last year.
Technical Safety BC is urging those who work with ammonia refrigeration systems to be more vigilant following an investigation into a fatal ammonia incident at an icemaking facility in the Mount Paul Industrial Park on May 26, 2022.
A contractor hired to do maintenance at Arctic Glacier on the T’kemlúps te Secwépemc reserve died after a significant amount of ammonia was released into the surrounding area.
In addition to the fatality, multiple people were exposed to ammonia and nearby businesses were shut down as a local evacuation took place.
Technical Safety BC’s incident investigation report found the primary cause of the incident was a failure to remove ammonia from the refrigeration system ahead of its disassembly. The investigation concluded that the ammonia release occurred when a ball valve holding back pressurized ammonia for the entire system was opened.
However, those working on the disassembly understood the system had been previously emptied.
Technical BC said several contributing factors led to the incident, including miscommunication, staffing changes and a failure to involve a licensed refrigeration contractor to conduct a complete assessment for the presence of ammonia.
“Our safety system is built on the foundation of ensuring that work associated with hazards is only completed by persons with the necessary skills and knowledge,” said Jeff Coleman, director of technical programs at Technical Safety BC.
“Unfortunately, when this equipment was shut down in 2015, the ammonia was not removed. Then, in 2022, a licensed refrigeration contractor was not engaged to prepare the equipment for final disassembly.”
Between the initial shutdown in 2015 and the incident in 2022, organizational changes, unclear communication and incorrect assessments were all contributing factors to the ammonia not being removed, according to the report.
In addition, previously cut piping and disconnected gauges identified pieces of the system as being empty. This led to the incorrect assumption that
the entire ammonia system was empty, despite ammonia being found the day before the incident.
“This is a traumatic event for everyone involved. Our condolences go out to the loved ones of the deceased and our thoughts are with those who were exposed, witnessed or were otherwise impacted by this tragic incident,” Coleman said. “We will work with stakeholders to enhance the safety system to prevent a similar incident from happening again.”
It remains to seen what fines may be levied by Technical Safety BC and/or WorkSafe BC.
Based on the findings of the investigation, Technical Safety BC is sharing learnings from the incident and is making three recommendations to seek improvements relating to the roles and responsibilities when dismantling refrigeration systems, and for the engagement of licensed refrigeration contractors when dismantling refrigeration equipment.
LEARNINGS:
• Leading up to the incident, workers unfamiliar with ammonia relied on the guidance of previously qualified refrigeration mechanics. This resulted in the work continuing when it likely would have otherwise been stopped. Only those with the necessary
skills and knowledge should be conducting activities with hazardous work.
• Licensed contractors must validate that ammonia and oil have been removed from a system and that equipment is ready for disassembly and transportation.
1. It is recommended that when planning for and facilitating the final shutdown and disassembly of refrigeration equipment, owners and managers directly engage a licensed contractor to validate that ammonia and oil are removed and that equipment is ready for safe disassembly and transportation.
2. It is recommended that those who previously held, or currently hold, a technical qualification do not counsel unqualified persons to do regulated work. Qualified persons are reminded that the Safety Standards Act and Regulations prohibit unauthorized persons from doing regulated work unless they are being supervised by a qualified person.
3. It is recommended that Canadian Standards Association adopt or develop requirements for the dismantling, disassembly and/or decommissioning of refrigeration systems and equipment.
A fire broke out in an encampment along the Thompson River in North Kamloops at about 8 p.m. on Jan. 21. The blaze erupted just below the Riverdale Trailer Court, west of Overlanders Bridge.
burning from her window.
“It burned very fiercely,” Best said.
A fire that erupted on the beach below a North Kamloops mobile home park has residents hoping some level of government can address their concerns — and they intend to start with a visit to Kamloops council.
The fire broke out at about 8 p.m. on Jan. 21 in an apparent homeless camp along the Thompson River below the Riverdale Trailer Court, west of Overlanders Bridge.
Residents told KTW they heard the sound of propane tanks exploding in the wooded area, which was home to a large tent. The fire department cut open the park’s chain link fence to reach the blaze and douse it.
Joan Best, 95, lives in a trailer directly above where the fire sparked and saw it
Best’s neighbour, Sharon Doucette, told KTW she heard two explosions that made her jump and call the fire department. She said police on scene told them at the time they may have to evacuate.
“Our saving grace was the fact it snowed,” Doucette said. “It was wet down there, but if it had of been dry, we were toast.”
Kamloops Fire Rescue Chief Ken Uzeloc said propane tanks were venting in the fire, which can create the sounds of relief valves popping and propane igniting. There were no reported injuries or deaths from the fire, and no one was found around the encampment, Uzeloc said.
The residents feel the fire was a wake-up call, suggesting had it occurred in the summer, flames could have threatened homes.
Riverdale residents, led by Best, Doucette and spokesperson Patsy Skene, have sent city council a letter, asking for assistance.
The group intends to address council at one of its meetings.
The group wants the encampment cleaned up, riverfront trees hanging over trailers in the park topped, brush cleared along the riverbank and actions enacted to stop people from establishing encampments in the area.
In their letter, residents are asking city council to determine who has authority over river beaches and work toward banning people from living on them in encampments below residences.
“All we’re asking for is some help,” Skene said.
The blaze was also a wakeup call for Kamloops Fire Rescue.
From A16
Uzeloc told KTW the fire prompted the fire department to examine, within weeks, the fire risk from fuel load along the beach and work with the city’s community service officers to determine who has jurisdiction in the area.
“We’ve heard it might be provincial land down there,” Uzeloc said, noting if that is the case, the fire department can make recommendations to the province.
The beach, according to the residents, seems to be located in a grey area, as it’s not clear to them which level of government has jurisdiction.
Skene said she reached out to all three levels of government a couple of years ago to get beachfront trees topped, but was told by each body it wasn’t their responsibility.
“Anything along a waterway is very complicated,” Uzeloc said.
The fire chief said the department receives many calls regarding people camped along riverbanks with fires being used for cooking and to keep warm.
Uzeloc said in addressing the fire risk, there is also the need to consider Kamloops’ homeless population that camps along the river, noting it will take a combined effort with the city’s community and protective services department and mental-health and shelter providers to address the issue.
“It’s not just about the fire department saying you’ve got to move these [people]. Where do they go and how do you prevent them from going around the corner?” Uzeloc said.
The city requires overnight encampments to be dismantled every morning and will issue warning notices before sending in community service officers to dismantle problem camps.
Residents told KTW the camp had been on the beach since last summer and, at one point, grew to five tents, though there was just one spotted at the time of the fire.
Skene, who has lived in the park for 10 years, said camping along the river has become a greater issue in the past couple of years.
Boogie the Bridge turns 25 this year and organizers are hoping for a larger sea of red as the community event seeks to gain traction in the second year back after a pandemicinduced two-year break.
Founder Jo Berry said her Boogie team is working on increasing the number of participants and growing the sponsor list so the popular spring run/walk can continue to spread its message that movement is change.
And spreading that message is a massive undertaking.
“This wonderful community comes out and they are so great, but they don’t necessarily understand the calibre of the event the amount of effort, first of all from our team and sponsors and community partners, but also expenses, like how much it costs to put on a top-drawer event,” Berry said.
In normal times, each year’s expenses could be covered by revenue (registration fees, corporate sponsors, donations and in-kind aid from media outlets), but the two-year pandemic-related pause has impacted the bottom line.
Berry said organizers were
forced to use contingency funds to get Boogie moving again last year.
With expenses up due to inflation and sponsorship dollars down, organizers are hoping for a strong turnout and a rebound in sponsorship and donation tallies to help stabilize the event going forward.
Berry said planning each year’s Boogie is a 10-month effort by volunteers who care about the community.
“Our team has not missed a beat. They need to be recognized as just incredible,” Berry said.
“But we need help from the
community and we need more sponsors.”
Beyond sponsorship, Berry said Boogie can benefit from more teams signing up — corporate, school, family — and from participants spreading its message beyond Kamloops in a bid to make Boogie a regional destination event.
Jenn Ruemper is in her third year as president of Boogie the Bridge Society and spent a decade on the committee.
In 2019, the year before the pandemic arrived, 2,252 people took part in Boogie. In 2022, the
first event after two years of pandemic-related cancellations, an almost identical number of people took part — 2,256.
Ruemper said the goal is to nudge that figure up.
“Ideally, we need 2,800 to 3,000 participants,” she said. “It pays the bills and allows us to donate more to our charity of choice.”
Those bills are not insignificant. Ruemper said running Boogie each year carries with it myriad costs, including $30,000 to $35,000 for traffic control, $12,000 to $14,000 for professional timing, $28,000 for t-shirts and $10,000
to $13,000 for medals — not to mention ancillary costs related to water, St. John Ambulance, office space, safety equipment and website hosting.
“In the past, registration fees and sponsorship money covered a huge part of our costs, which led to more money going to the charity of choice,” Ruemper said.
Since its inception in 1998, with just 68 people taking part, Boogie has managed to raise about $1.2 million for its various charities of choice.
In healthier years, the event was able to raise up to $50,000 for its charity choice. Last year, only $5,000 could be donated to Western Canada Theatre’s Indigenous Youth Program, due to the aforementioned pandemicrelated expenses.
SPONSORS:
The Valid Dreams Foundation is honouring the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities as part of Black History Month in February.
This year’s second annual Black History Celebration event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11, between 4:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., at the Colombo Lodge, east of downtown at 814 Lorne St.
“Our last Black History event in February 2022 safely hosted over 50 people of all cultures with representation and support from the community, including the area MP and city council members, which was a great demonstration of the diversity and inclusion which is the basis of our organization to welcome all people,” said Sally Martin, Valid Dreams Foundation’s executive director.
The evening will include African cuisine and drinks, a fashion show with innovative designs, music and dance performances. The family-friendly event is open to all ages and children under the age of five can attend for free.
Martin is seeking busi-
ness sponsorships and collaboration from the community for both her event, as well as for upcoming projects related to mental health and wellness, career education and advancement, business and psychology.
Martin said she is hopeful members of the community will be interested in volunteering at the Black History Celebration on Feb. 11 and may consider getting involved in the non-profit Valid Dreams Foundation’s board in the future.
Those interested can contact Martin by email at info@ validdreamsfoundation.com for more information.
The 2022 theme for Black History Month is “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day,” which focuses on recognizing the daily contributions Black Canadians make to Canada.
Locally, Martin said, that means celebrating excellence in the Kamloops community.
“For this coming year, we’re looking at having a
more celebratory event,” Martin said.
“Last year, we really focused on racism and discrimination and sharing their stories. It can be a very heavy topic. We had financial literacy and history of Black History. This year, we want to recognize Black excellence in Kamloops and maybe surrounding areas like Merritt.”
The Valid Dreams Foundation began focusing on diversity and inclusion in Kamloops in 2021. The organization focuses on cultural education and empowerment programs for people and organizations to encourage growth in Greater Kamloops.
“It was really challenging connecting to a new community and getting support,” Martin said.
“So, I decided to start that to connect the community, especially the Black community and other cultures … to be able to come, share and learn. We wanted to increase the level of support that we could provide to that community.”
For ticket information to the Feb. 11 event, call the Valid Dreams Foundation at 250-572-0237 or go online to validdreamsfoundation. com/events.
From A18
“Rent, storage fee and insurance still needed to be paid in 2020 and 2021,” Ruemper said, referring to the two idle years of Boogie.
Berry said she wants to ensure Boogie continue and noted her goal this year is to see participant numbers crest the next thousand mark.
“Well, to break 3,000 for sure. Anyone actually who does a lot of running or walking events knows that Boogie is so different than other events, with the sea of red and all the entertainment,” she said. “We just need help to grow it because it’s an amazing event.”
This year’s Boogie the Bridge will return to Riverside Park downtown after spending the past few years on the North Shore. Participants will again truly Boogie across Overlanders
Bridge. The event will be held on Sunday, April 23, with RunClub twice-weekly running/walking clinics set to begin on Sunday, March 5, and Tuesday, March 7.
Online registration fees before April 2 at 5 p.m. are $12.50 (plus tax) for children to 12 years of age, $22.50 for youth ages 13 to 17, $60 for adults ages 18 to 64 and $47.50 for those ages 65 and older. Entry fees include a t-shirt, chip-timing bib and medal. All the information is online at boogiethebridge.com.
RunClub training clinics have a separate registration process, information for which can be found online at runclub.ca.
For donation/sponsorship inquires, email boogiesociety@boogiethebridge.com. For Boogie registration queries, email registration@ boogiethebridge.com.
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The Rockin’ River Music Fest in Merritt is cancelled this year, with organizers making the same difficult decision other music festivals in the province have had to make.
Rockin’ River Music Fest organizers said the festival has been met with economic obstacles that it can’t overcome.
“With the rise in cost of entertainment and everything else, we needed a lot more people,” Rockin River founder Kenny Hess told the Merritt Herald, citing last year’s ticket sales.
“I would estimate that the turnout was about 30 per cent less than what we expected or needed. Combined with the losses we’ve suffered through the COVID-19 pandemic and everything else, the numbers just couldn’t add up.”
Hess said he had taken a back seat with his role in the festival, noting Live Nation, Jukebox Entertainment and the Rockin’ River organization have the more active role and were responsible for deciding to cancel this summer’s festival.
“Though it wasn’t up to me, I would’ve still made a similar vote to
cancel, as I agree that the numbers don’t make sense to continue,” he said. “I want to thank Merritt for being so good to us and want to express how sorry we are that we couldn’t continue to do the festival this year.”
Other factors that led to the decision include the pandemic, flooding and rising costs to book musicians.
Rockin’ River follows a string of music festival cancellations from earlier this month, including the Vancouver Folk Music Festival and the Squamish Constellation Festival.
UPCOMING
Boogie the Bridge is Kamloops’ largest celebration of movement. The 26th annual CFJC TV Boogie the Bridge is happening on Sunday, April 23.
Take part in a run, walk, or stroll along one of three courses. This year, the run is once again starting in Riverside Park. From the park, the route heads across the Overlanders Bridge to Kamloops’ North Shore to then follow along the North Thompson River.
Over the years, Boogie the Bridge has inspired hundreds of people to make a difference in their lives, the lives of their families and the lives of their community members, through movement and community involvement.
The annual event is full of fun along the route, with bands, inspirational chalking and lots of cheering and encouragement all along the route.
To participate (run or walk) in the 1K Kids’ Mini Boogie, 5K, 10K or 21.1K Half Marathon distances, go online to register at, registration@boogiethebridge.com. Boogie the Bridge is also looking for volunteers. To sign up, go to boogiethebridge.com/registration/.
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.
CAR CLUB CARES FOR KIDS: The Kamloops Street Rod Association donated $13,000 to the pediatrics ward at Royal Inland Hospital. The money was raised at the club’s car shows last year in Prince Charles Park — on May 28 and July 23 — and via the Sept. 30 Pumpkin Run.
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From February 2 to 4, the 2023 Special Olympics BC Winter Games presented by Prospera Credit Union will take place in Kamloops, B.C., where athletes, volunteer coaches, and mission staff from all over the province will come together for an inspiring experience of competition, sportsmanship, and fun!
This will be the first Provincial Games in four years, as the pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2021 Special Olympics BC Summer Games. More than 500 athletes earned their spot at the Provincial Games through the Regional Qualifiers held from January to May 2022. They have been tirelessly training in their hometown communities, and are now thrilled to showcase their abilities in Kamloops and reconnect with their friends.
“In the pandemic, it was hard, and I could not see all my friends. It made me sad inside. I’m glad I’m back in session, hanging out with my friends and going back to my sports I’m excited to be going to the Provincial Games in Kamloops, because I made it for curling. I cheered for myself up and down, I was shocked I got accepted, I was shocked and proud!” says Special Olympics BC athlete Bridget Colvin.
The Provincial Games will feature exciting competition in the eight SOBC winter sports: 5-pin bowling, alpine skiing, cross country skiing, curling, figure skating, floor hockey, snowshoeing, and speed skating.
Participating in the Provincial Games is a huge thrill in itself for the athletes, many of
whom will have their first opportunity ever to travel with a team, and will experience the joy of challenging themselves to attain and exceed their athletic goals. Athletes are also competing for a chance to qualify for the 2024 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Calgary!
All SOBC Games are open to the public and most events are free of charge. Come out and cheer on these deserving athletes and experience the power and joy of sport!
Find schedules and full details at www.sobcgameskamloops.ca.
• New Gold
• New Gold
• Bettina Charpentier
• Judy & Graham Burns
• Deirdre Danallanko
Februar y 2
Opening Ceremony - 7 p.m. Tournament Capital Centre
Tickets are not required. Admission is free and spectators are welcome at this exciting show!
Februar y 3 & 4
Competition in 8 sports - Open to all spectators free of charge!
You do so much and we so appreciate you! Thank you for giving your time and talents to help make the empowering experiences of the 2023 Special Olympics BC Winter Games possible!
Special Olympics BC can provide life-changing opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities, empowering them to succeed not only in sports, but also in life.
“After joining Special Olympics I have found much more motivation to compete and try hard. Aside from competitions, I have found that the adventures and social aspects have been beneficial... [Special Olympics] also offers a chance for self-improvement and an inclusive opportunity to step out of your comfort zone,” says Special Olympics BC athlete and 2023 SOBC Winter Games competitor Matthew Burns.
Burns is one of the more than 5,200 athletes in the 55 communities across B C who experience the positive impact of SOBC’s sport, youth, and health programs. positive impact of SOBC’s sport,
youth, and health programs.
Through these programs and competitive opportunities, athletes with intellectual disabilities feel the pride of achievement, the joy of friendship, and the significant health benefits that come from participating in sports. They take centre stage and show everyone their amazing abilities, changing their own lives as well as the lives of those lucky enough to see and support them in action.
Special Olympics BC’s empowering year-round programs would not exist today without the dedication and commitment of the more than 4,300 volunteers who choose to take a little time from busy schedules to make a life-changing difference for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
To SOBC athlete and 2023 Winter Games competitor Christopher Lakusta, volunteers are truly
the backbone of SOBC “Special Olympics matters so much to me because I have met new friends and without the volunteers, there is no Special Olympics. [You get to] meet these incredible athletes that will change your life forever,” he says.
SOBC – Kamloops is one of the longest-standing Special Olympics programs in the province. Their year-round programs are full of athletes, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who inspire and empower each other, as well as everyone around them.
Special Olympics is more than a sport organization; it is social change. Special Olympics aims to inspire everyone to open their hearts to a wider world of human talents and potential. To get involved with a rewarding role in our year-round programs, please visit specialolympics.bc.ca
Have you ever wondered what is a disability tax credit is, or how to save in income taxes paid?
Any Canadian, of any age, who has a significant health condition may qualify for the disability tax credit. It does not matter if you work or not.
The disability tax credit is a tax credit for people with medical conditions or their supporting person, reducing the amount of income tax they pay. It can be retroactive for up to 10 years.
If you are a taxpayer and are helping a family member who has a chronic medical condition and that family member doesn’t pay income taxes, you may benefit.
How does one qualify? Any Canadian, of any age, who has a significant health condition, may qualify for the disability tax credit. That is birth to death and a sup-
The first of three enhanced BC Family Benefit payments begin this year. The enhanced BC Family Benefit will provide families with moderate and low incomes, and children under 18, with more money in the first three months of 2023. The credit will provide as much as an additional $350 from January to March
porting person may apply for a deceased family member for up to two years after the person with the health issues has passed away.
To see examples of some conditions, check our web page at disabilitycreditsos.ca.
The diagnosis is not the qualifying factor; it is how the condition effects one’s daily living.
Why am I so successful? I have been a disability tax credit advocate for more than 13 years. I have a small, dedicated team and we know the requirements for a successful application.
The First step is determining if people qualify. I don’t waste anyone’s time. If I don’t believe they qualify, I will not accept them as a client.
I collaborate with medical professionals to ensure
for a family with two children.
Approximately 75 per cent of B.C. families will receive the enhanced BC Family Benefit credit and approximately 84 per cent of those families will receive at least an additional $50 per month, per child. Eligibility is based on income and number of children. It is automatically determined when
the applications are explicable to the Canada Revenue Agency, then submit it electronically to the CRA. Once approved, we reassess to ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to and submit that to the CRA.
The disability tax credit is a gateway to other federal, provincial and territorial programs, such as the registered disability savings plan and the child disability benefit. Once eligible for the disability tax credit, people can then apply other such programs.
If you or a family member has a chronic medical condition, you may be entitled to a disability tax credit. To find out more, call 250-674-2416.
Nellie Krombach is general manager of Supportive Options & Solutions, serving all of B.C. To learn more, call 250-674-2419.
someone registers for the Canada Child Benefit, usually through their income tax return.
Most families will receive the benefit as a direct deposit from the Canada Revenue Agency, alongside the federal Canada Child Benefit program.
The BC Family Benefit may take as long as 10 days to be deposited
by the Canada Revenue Agency alongside the Canada Child Benefit. The BC Family Benefit was formerly known as the Child Opportunity Benefit.
For information about new and existing affordability supports, go online to www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/affordability/family-benefit.
Opposing teams have outscored the WolfPack 1,251 to 715 this season — a negative-536 point differential after 16 games.
Todd Warnick was hired to resurrect the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack women’s basketball program.
“I knew what I was getting into when I came here,” said Warnick, whose WolfPack are 1-15 in his first season behind the bench. “This is an evaluative year.”
Scott Reeves was the club’s head coach for 13 seasons before his departure after the 2018-2019 Canada West campaign, posting a regular-season mark of 102-171 and leading the team to five playoff appearances.
The coaching carousel began when Reeves was replaced by Goran Nogic, whose tenure on the bench ended in October of 2021 during the exhibition schedule that preceded the 2021-2022 campaign.
Nogic filed a notice of claim last April in B.C. Supreme Court, suing the university and alleging defamation and wrongful dismissal, alleging untrue allegations and an improper investigation.
The claim notes he was accused of slapping a student-athlete, inappropriate touching, calling a player fat, bullying, mental abuse and harassment of players on the squad.
Under Nogic, the WolfPack were 7-13 in 2019-2020 and qualified for the post-season. The pandemic wiped out the 2020-2021 campaign.
Ken Olynyk, former athletics and recreation director for TRU, took over coaching duties on an interim basis on short notice in the fall of 2021. The team posted a 1-17 record in 2021-2022.
“I’m not sure if I’d choose to have four coaches in six years, but I would choose to come to TRU,” said Megan Rouault, the WolfPack’s lone graduating fifthyear player.
“It’s been crazy. It’s definitely not a typical career for any university athlete, but I feel like it’s made me better because I have learned so many different offences and coaching styles and it’s made me a better player overall.”
Warnick plans to establish culture and create stability.
He spoke to KTW on Thursday morning (Jan. 26) after practise and noted his track record, which includes bringing beleaguered hoops programs at Vancouver Island University of Nanaimo and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology of Edmonton to great heights.
Most recently, Warnick capped
his 12-season tenure at NAIT with gold at the 2022 Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association Championship.
“There are always challenges when you’re in a growth season, but really, that’s part of the evaluative process,” Warnick said. “Who has the mental toughness to push through this?”
Makeba Taylor of Toronto and Jaya Saroya of Kamloops are the only two players on the WolfPack’s roster this season who were recruited by Warnick.
“Everybody else is who I inherited,” Warnick said. “We’re looking at what we have, what we need and how to grow. I’m trying to add talent — and high-performance talent.”
Warnick revealed three new recruits last week — Sydney Vollrath and Kate De La Mare of St. Albert, Alta., and Olivia
Randall of Regina — who will join the team in time for the 2023-2024 campaign.
Saskatchewan and Alberta are producing a wealth of talent, said Warnick, a Calgary native and longtime Alberta resident who plans to use recruiting connections to tap into the Prairie pipeline.
“Everybody knows this year is kind of like a trial,” Rouault said. “You have to prove yourself and prove you deserve this position because Todd didn’t recruit us. It’s been a grind, but it’s been a positive experience. We’re working on ourselves and improving each weekend, so the outcome isn’t as important.”
Some of the outcomes have been harrowing, including a 103-28 defeat to the Fraser Valley Cascades on Jan. 20 in Abbotsford.
The WolfPack’s lone victory came on Dec. 2 in Edmonton, where TRU bested the MacEwan Griffins 78-69 to break the goose egg and give Warnick his first Canada West victory.
“I think we’re all bought into a rebuild kind of season, or couple seasons ahead of us, and all the girls bring 100 per cent every day,” said Kelsey Cruz, a third-year guard from Calgary. “We know Todd has the experience of winning a national championship and he has that mentality. He brings 100 per cent. Same with [assistant] coach Cassie [Rerick]. We know if we commit to getting better and stronger every day, we will have results in the long run.”
The Victoria Vikes (7-9) earned a pair of wins over the Pack this past weekend at the TCC — 71-45 on Friday and 64-48 on Saturday — and sit 11th in Canada West standings. The top 12 teams will qualify for the post-season.
TRU is second-last in the 17-team league, with one more victory than Brandon (0-16).
Standings are of little importance to the WolfPack at this point, but who is in the stands means something to Cruz, who sees victories in future years and finds rewards elsewhere, for now.
“This weekend, we’re excited to be in front of our home fans,” Cruz said last Thursday. “They’re great. The city of Kamloops has supported us this whole time. As a team, one of our goals is being in the community and if this weekend we try our best and show everyone our best effort and have young girls come out and have them be engaged in sport, then that’s still a win for us.”
WED FEBRUARY 1 VS PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS
Kamloops Storm goaltender Cody Creasy is clicking at 100 per cent.
“That was my first time ever trying for a goalie goal,” said Creasy, the 19-year-old netminder from Brandon, Man. “I didn’t even know what to do with myself, if I should start cheering or if I should just go to the bench and celebrate with the guys.”
in, actually,” Creasy said. “I turned my back to the play for a second, thinking it went wide. I don’t know if it hit a stick or something, but it felt surreal in the moment.”
Teammates rushed to jump and gyrate in the crease with Creasy, who was encouraged to mark the moment with a rare hockey occurrence — the goalie fly-by.
boss is free to return to the bench on Feb. 10 against the Coyotes in Osoyoos.
Meanwhile, the Storm (23-12-0-4) will play twice this weekend against the Doug Birks Divisionleading Revelstoke Grizzlies (27-5-3-4).
Revelstoke will host on Friday, Feb. 3, with the rematch slated to get underway at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4, on Mac Isle, the first Storm home game since Creasy opened his goal-scoring account.
FRI FEBRUARY 3
AUTISM ACCEPTANCE NIGHT
The Storm were up 4-2 on the Summerland Steam late in the third period on Jan. 27 in Kootenay International Junior Hockey League action at McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre.
“I didn’t want to do the fly-by, but the guys were telling me I better go do it,” said Creasy, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 187 pounds.
“It was a once-in-alifetime moment. I might as well do that. The fly-by was awesome.”
Storm head coach Jan Ludvig had a moment to speak to his club during an injury timeout.
VS PRINCE ALBERT RAIDERS VS PRINCE VICTORIA ROYALS
SUNDAY GAME STARTS AT 5 PM
FAMILY DAY with a post-game Skate with the Blazers!
“My first time getting a shot on net and I guess I scored,” Creasy said. “It was crazy to live that moment.”
SUN FEBRUARY 5
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“Our coach told me, ‘If you have the chance to shoot it, you have the freedom to shoot it,’” Creasy said. “I didn’t think anything of it at the moment, but our players broke the puck out, turned around and passed it to me.”
Jameson Rende took his coach’s words to heart.
The Storm winger from Kamloops had a clear path to the neutral zone when he curled back toward his own net and fired a crisp pass to Creasy, who loaded up the first shot of his KIJHL career.
“I didn’t think it went
Kamloops, which claimed a 5-2 win over Summerland, travelled to Princeton the next night to play the Posse.
Princeton doubled Kamloops 4-2, going 2-for6 on the power play to capitalize on Storm indiscipline, with the visitors racking up 52 penalty minutes on nine infractions.
Ludvig, whose club was 0-for-1 on the man advantage, practised some freedom of his own that night, waving a white towel on a stick to protest officiating, an act of defiance that has freed him from bench-boss duties for three games — the length of a leagueimposed suspension for the towel transgression.
The first-year bench
The Storm will play host to Weiner Dog Race Night on Saturday, Feb. 4, with proceeds from the event going to Angel’s Animal Rescue in Merritt.
Daschunds will hit the ice for the race during the first intermission of the Storm-Grizzlies contest on Mac Isle.
To register your dog for the race, call Storm general manager Matt Kolle at 250319-3738 or email him at mattkolle@shaw.ca.
Those who register a pooch will receive two free tickets to the game.
Angel’s Animal Rescue — and dog Kibbles — was featured on Kamloops Last Week, which can be found on YouTube and your favourite podcast provider.
Four cheerleading athletes from Freeze Athletics have been selected to represent Canada at the International Cheer Union World Championships in April in Orlando, Fla.
Cian Watters, Eva Byczek, Madison Brien and Sean Mitchell have been selected by Cheer Canada to be part of Youth Team Canada at the event, marking the first time Freeze athletes have been named to a national team.
The athletes have been training with Youth Team B.C. since July, making many trips to the Lower Mainland for training sessions.
Kamloops Classic Swimming sent 11 swimmers to the Williams Lake Frost Fest Invitational on the weekend.
The team finished fourth overall and had 27 top-three placings: 11 firsts, nine seconds and seven thirds.
In the 10 and under age group, Stella LePage, 10, won five events: 50m and 100m backstroke and 50m,100m and 200m breaststroke. She placed second in the 100m individual medley. Eva Chahal,
10, placed third in the 100m backstroke and Mason Vos, 11, placed second in the 50m butterfly and third in the 50m breaststroke.
In the 11/12 age group, Lienke Raath, 12, won three events: 100m fly, 200m breaststroke and 50m backstroke. She placed second in the 100m and 400m freestyle and third in the 50m breaststroke. All were best times. Hannah Frier, 11, achieved her first divisional qualifier in the 50m backstroke, placed second in the 50m and 100m breaststroke and finished third in the 100m backstroke. All were best times.
In the 13/14 age group, Sawyer Niedziejko, 13, won the 100m freestyle and 50m breaststroke events and placed second in the 200m individual medley. Liam Esson, 13, placed second in the 50m breaststroke and Hridik Chahal, 13, finished first in the 100m fly and third in the 100m backstroke.
In the 15 and over age group; Zach Gramiak, 16, placed second in the 100m freestyle and third in the 200m individual medley.
Sylvie Lloyd of the Kamloops Long Blades Speed Skating Club competed at Canada Cup 3 in Winnipeg this past weekend.
With temperatures hovering around -30 C with the windchill, a couple of distances were cancelled. However, Lloyd pulled off three top 10 finishes, with a seventh-place finish in the 500m, a fifth-place finish in the second 1,000m and a 10th-place finish in the first 1,000m.
Up next for the Long Blades will be the Canadian Youth Long Track Championships on Feb. 4 and Feb. 5 in Fort St. John.
The Kamloops Blazers host the Portland Winterhawks on Wednesday, Feb. 1, at Sandman Centre. Faceoff is at 7 p.m. Kamloops split a pair of games in Victoria on the weekend, winning 7-4 and losing 3-2.
Entering Western Hockey
KAMLOOPS THISWEEK
Tim Hortons is introducing a Special Olympics Donut, just in time for the Special Olympics BC Winter Games, which will take place in Kamloops this week.
The Games will take place from Feb. 2 to Feb. 4, with the Special Olympics Donut on sale from Feb. 3 to Feb. 5.
All proceeds from donut sales will go to Special Olympics Canada to help athletes with an intellectual disability in their sports endeavours.
The Special Olympics Donut is a chocolate cake ring donut
with white fondant, coloured sprinkles and whipped topping. The multi-coloured design was inspired by the themes of diversity and inclusion that are central to the Special Olympics mission.
To support the launch of the Special Olympics Donut, Special Olympics athlete Spring Ding is appearing in a Tim Hortons TV commercial to help generate awareness for the campaign.
“I love my Special Olympics teammates and coaches because they always make me feel included. Everyone should choose to include,” Ding says.
League action on Tuesday night, the Winterhawks, with 71 points, were atop the U.S. Division and the Blazers, with 60 points, led the B.C. Division.
Meanwhile, the Blazers will host the Saskatoon Blades on Re/ Max Presents: Nickelodeon Night for Children’s Miracle Network on Friday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m. at Sandman Centre.
Game-worn Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles jerseys will be auctioned off online at 32auctions. com, with the auction beginning on Feb. 6 and wrapping up on Feb. 12.
Proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network, which strives to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and research.
Programs are cancelled if the minimum numbers are not met
XploreSportz Pro D Day Camp Ages 7-12 $49
Try 2 sports throughout the day while meeting new friends and having fun!
Hal Rogers and Albert McGowan Park Fri Feb 3 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Valentine Treats Ages 10 - 15 1/$38
The Kamloops Blazers will wear these jerseys on Feb. 10. They will be auctioned off online at 32auctions.com, with the auction running from Feb. 6 to Feb. 12.
Learn how to spread the holiday love through Valentine treats with our Red Seal chef! Some supplies required Sa-Hali Secondary School
Thurs Feb 9
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Valentines Cakes with Roses 1/$38
Get ready for Valentines! Join Shirley the cake lady in learning how to decorate a cake with roses! Some supplies required NorKam Secondary Thur Feb 9
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Advance Photography Series 4/$120
Go beyond point and shoot and going from auto to manual functions with their camera Participants should have a good understanding of adjusting camera features (depth of field, shutter speed and ISO) Will cover four key areas exposure and focus problems, black and white photography, and night photography Valleyview Secondary School
Tues Feb 21 - March 14
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Local History Lecture 1/$10
Join local history enthusiast Hugh Fallis at the KMA to hear about his local history passion project and research Kamloops Museum and Archives l Sat Feb 25
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Kamloops.ca
City of KamloopsThe field at the 2023 Scotties Tournament of Hearts has been finalized. The national women’s curling championship will take place at Sandman Centre in Kamloops from Feb. 17 to Feb. 26.
Team Canada, represented by the Kerri Einarson rink of Gimli, Man., will begin its pursuit of a record-tying fourth consecutive title against Quebec’s Team Laurie St-Georges on Feb. 17 to open the tournament.
Einarson and her team of vice-skip Val Sweeting, second Shannon Birchard, lead Briane Harris and coach Reid Carruthers have won the past three Canadian women’s curling championships. With a win in Kamloops, the squad would match the record for consecutive titles, held by Team Colleen Jones of Nova Scotia, which won four straight championships from 2001 to 2004.
The full field and the two round-robin pools have been set after seven provincial championships were decided this past weekend.
The event will feature 18 teams — Team Canada, 14 provincial/ territorial champions and three wild card teams — split into two pools of nine, seeded based on their final standing in the Canadian Team Ranking System as of Jan. 30.
Team Kaitlyn Lawes (Winnipeg), Team Casey Scheidegger (Lethbridge, Alta.) and Team Meghan Walter (East St. Paul, Man.) nailed down the wild card berths.
Teams will play a complete eight-game round-robin within their pools. From there, the top three teams in each pool advance to the playoffs. The second- and third-ranked teams in each pool cross over to play in Page playoff qualifier games on Friday, Feb. 24, at 1 p.m. The winners advance to play the winners of Pool A and Pool B on Friday, Feb. 24, at 6 p.m. The winners of those games go to the Page first versus second game, while the losers will compete in the Page third versus fourth game.
The standard Page playoffs commence with the winner of the Page first versus second game on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m., advancing directly to the final and the loser playing the winner of the Page third versus fourth game (scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday) in the semifinal.
Friday, February1716:00p.m.SKvsNSWC1vsABCAvsQCBCvsPE
Saturday, February1821:00p.m.NOvsMBWC3vsWC2NTvsNBONvsNL 36:00p.m.PEvsNUCAvsBCWC1vsNSABvsSK Sunday,
• 12. Prince Edward Island: Marie Christianson [throws third stones] (Suzanne Birt [throws fourth stones], Michelle Shea, Meaghan Hughes, Sinead Dolan, Danny Christianson; Cornwall)
• 13. Saskatchewan, Robyn Silvernagle (Kelly Schafer, Sherry Just, Kara Thevenot; North Battleford)
• 16. Quebec: Laurie St-Georges (Alanna Routledge [throws second stones], Emily Riley [throws third stones], Kelly Middaugh, Émilie Desjardins, Michel St-Georges; Glenmore & Laval-sur-le-Lac, Que.)
• 17. Nunavut: Brigitte MacPhail (Sadie Pinksen, Kaitlin MacDonald, Alison Taylor, Donalda Mattie; Iqaluit)
POOL B
• 2. Ontario: Tracy Fleury [throws third stones] (Rachel Homan [throws fourth stones], Emma Miskew, Sarah Wilkes, Kira Brunton, Ryan Fry; Ottawa)
156:30p.m.NUvsWC1NLvsNOQCvsBCNTvsWC2
Thursday, February23168:30a.m.YTvsWC3PEvsSKNBvsONCAvsAB
171:30p.m.ONvsWC2YTvsNTNLvsWC3MBvsNB
186:30p.m.BCvsABNUvsCAPEvsWC1NSvsQC
PO-11:00p.m.#2vs#3-TBD
PO-26:00p.m.PoolWinnervs#2/#3Winner-TBD
The semifinal (Sunday, Feb. 26, at noon) winner will take on the winner of the Page first versus second game in the Scotties title tilt at 6 p.m. on Sunday. The winner will represent Canada at the 2023 LGT World Women’s Curling Championship, which is being held from March 18 to March 26 in Sandviken, Sweden.
If necessary, one tiebreaker game will be scheduled for Friday, Feb. 24, at 8:30 a.m. for third place only. If there is a tie between more than two teams for the spot, teams will be eliminated by headto-head record first and then by accumulated last stone draw distance to determine the two teams
that will play in the tiebreaker game. Tiebreaker games will be played only if teams have a winning record (5-3 or better).
THE SCOTTIES FIELD
(Teams are listed according to overall seeding, with players listed in order of skip (player calling the shots), vice-skip (player holding the broom for the skip), second, lead, alternate, coach).
POOL A
• 1. Team Canada: Kerri Einarson (Val Sweeting, Shannon Birchard, Briane Harris, Reid Carruthers; Gimli, Man.)
• 4. Wild Card 1: Kaitlyn Lawes
(Laura Walker, Jocelyn Peterman, Kristin MacCuish, Lisa Weagle; Winnipeg)
• 5. British Columbia: Clancy Grandy (Kayla MacMillan, Lindsay Dubue, Sarah Loken, Katie Witt; Vancouver)
• 8. Nova Scotia: Christina Black (Karlee Everist [throws second stones], Jenn Baxter [throws third stones], Shelley Barker, Carole MacLean, Stuart MacLean; Halifax)
• 9. Alberta: Kayla Skrlik (Geri-Lynn Ramsay [throws second stones], Brittany Tran [throws third stones], Ashton Skrlik, Crystal Webster, Shannon Kleibrink; Calgary)
• 3. Manitoba: Jennifer Jones (Mackenzie Zacharias [throws second stones], Karlee Burgess [throws third stones], Lauren Lenentine, Emily Zacharias, Glenn Howard, Winnipeg/Altona)
• 6. Wild Card 2: Casey Scheidegger (Kate Cameron, Jessie Haughian, Taylor McDonald, Joan McCusker; Lethbridge, Alta.)
• 7. Wild Card 3: Meghan Walter (Abby Ackland, Sara Oliver, Mackenzie Elias, Howard Restall; East St. Paul, Man.)
• 10: New Brunswick: Andrea Kelly (Sylvie Quillian, Jillian Brothers, Katie Forward, Daryell Nowlan; Fredericton)
• 11. Northwest Territories: Kerry Galusha [throws lead stones] (Jo-Ann Rizzo [throws fourth stones], Sarah Koltun, Margot Flemming, Megan Koehler, Shona Barbour; Yellowknife)
• 14: Northern Ontario: Krista McCarville (Sarah Potts [throws lead stones], Kendra Lilly [throws third stones], Ashley Sippala [throws second stones], Rick Lang; Thunder Bay, Ont.)
• 15. Newfoundland and Labrador: Stacie Curtis (Erica Curtis, Julie Hynes, Camille Burt, Eugene Trickett; St. John’s)
• 18: Yukon: Hailey Birnie (Chelsea Jarvis, Kerry Campbell, Kim Tuor, Jenna Duncan; Whitehorse)
The Alberta Golden Bears overwhelmed the TRU WolfPack last weekend in Canada West men’s volleyball play at the TCC.
Alberta, the No. 1 ranked U Sports men’s volleyball team in the country, swept TRU 3-0 on Friday (in front of about 1,000 School District 73 students on
Two crucial games this weekend in Prince George will be pivotal to the TRU WolfPack’s post-season aspirations.
The Victoria Vikes improved to 14-2 with a pair of wins — 96-59 on Friday and 83-74 on Saturday — over the hometown WolfPack, defeats that leave TRU (5-11) tied for 13th with Saskatchewan (5-11) in Canada West men’s basketball standings.
The UNBC Timberwolves (6-10), who are 12th in league standings, will play host to the WolfPack twice this weekend in Prince George.
TRU has four games remaining on its schedule and must finish inside the top 12 to make the playoffs.
The WolfPack will wrap their regular-season slate with games against the league-leading Manitoba Bisons (15-1) on Feb. 10 and Feb. 11 at the TCC.
“We know that we can play with anybody when we are playing our best game and we have the biggest games of the year coming up this weekend, so we know we have to perform to give ourselves a shot at the playoffs,” WolfPack forward Simon Crossfield told TRU Sports information.
McDonald’s School Day) and won in four sets on Saturday to improve to 19-1 on the campaign.
TRU (8-10) remains in postseason position with six games remaining on its regular-season slate, including two this weekend against Grant MacEwan (1-17) in Edmonton.
The Valleyview Skating Club was in action at the Okanagan Figure Skating Championships last weekend in Vernon.
In Star 1 action, Nissi Choi and Yna Huerto earned gold ribbons and Mikaela Trudel snared a bronze ribbon.
Emily Tokarek, Mikylah Shipton and Presley Hillis picked up silver ribbons and Casey Kinna and Stella Severin bagged bronze ribbons in Star 2 action.
In Star 3 competition, Marti Jane Hillis earned a gold ribbon and Morgan Wells, Hailey Trainor, Tenley McKim and Anne Colver won silver ribbons.
Nina Wells and Mira Barber placed fifth and seventh, respectively, in the under-13 Star 4 division. Desiree Rebinsky and Claire Gagnon placed fourth and Aliya Traynor was seventh in 13-and-over Star 4 action.
Brooklyn Leduc, Brie Anne Gibson and Keira Bells were fourth, seventh and eighth, respectively, in U13 Star 5 competition. Ashlyn Wassing finished fifth in the prenovice ladies short program.
The TRU WolfPack cheer team earned thirdand fourth-place finishes earlier this month at the ICU University World Cup Championships in Orlando, Fla.
“Our team showed up. The ICU University World Cup Championship is the highest level of competition in our sport for collegiate cheer,” WolfPack
co-head coach
Meaghan Blakely told TRU Sports Information. “Not only did our student athletes handle the pressure professionally, but they also showcased strong sportsmanship and had a blast while doing it.”
The WolfPack earned bronze in the All Girl Game Day Division (placing third among three teams) and finished fourth in
the seven-team University Premier All Girl Division.
TRU improved on its fifth-place finish in the University Premier All Girl Division in 2020.
The Pack are set to compete in the B.C. Championships in March in Victoria.
The team will be aiming to defend the Game Day provincial title it won in 2022.
In Star 5 artistic action, Brooklyn Leduc placed first, Claire Gagnon finished second, Nina Wells was fourth, Aliya Traynor was sixth, Lacey Tucker placed eighth and Marti Jane Hillis and Desiree Rebinsky had ninthplace finishes.
Amanda Hess won gold in the Adult Bronze Division, Libby Tucker was fourth in Star 7 artistic, Cheyenne Irvine placed third in Gold Artistic and Ashlyn Wassing, Brenna Wassing and Kathryn Heid finished first, third and fifth, respectively, in Gold Artistic.
Anne Colver won a gold ribbon and Presley Hillis, Tenley McKim and Desiree Rebinsky earned silver ribbons in the Creative Improv Division.
In Star 3 elements, Hailey Traynor and Tenley McKim won gold ribbons and Anne Colver snared a silver ribbon.
Marti Jane Hillis picked up a gold ribbon in Star 4 elements.
uke’s Gospel has by far the most uses of the phrase “it came to pass.”
This phrase is used at least 41 times in the Bible, in the book of Luke. It is an indication that Luke follows a very straightforward logical path of writing that is easy to follow.
Luke 2:1 starts with one of these uses of “it came to pass.”
The subject of verses 1 to 7 is the account of the birth of Jesus Christ. We read that Caesar Augustus had levied some sort of tax or census. This decree of Caesar just happened to make it necessary for Joseph and Mary to go to Bethlehem.
Micah 5:2 was written about 710 years before God’s son would be born in Bethlehem, so it would be better to say that God was directing all of the many prophecies concerning Christ to be fulfilled. Micah 5:2 states, “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.”
John 1:14 states that “the
Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Further on, we read that Joseph and Mary came to Bethlehem and that Mary was “great with child.” It wasn’t the most convenient time for the couple, but they had to go to Bethlehem, so there they were.
It was necessary for Jesus to come down from heaven. He had to “bear our sins in his own body on the tree,” according to 1 Peter 2:24. There was no other way to make it possible for us to be saved from the penalty of sin.
We don’t read of any complaints or groaning from this young couple as they obeyed God’s purpose for their lives.
We read that Mary’s “days were accomplished that she should be delivered.” And she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. Swaddling clothes are strips of cloth that were commonly used to keep a child warm.
There was no designer blanket to wrap him in, but the young couple did what they could with what they had. Jesus was laid in a manger, which is a feeding trough for animals.
It is amazing how the Lord humbled himself and was obedient unto death, even the death of the cross (Philippians 2:8).
God’s word tells us Jesus has been raised from the dead and lives in the power of an endless life. He has died for all of us, but we need to receive him while we have an opportunity. Salvation is a free gift, but it cost God’s son a tremendous price that cannot be measured fully.
After the account of the birth of Jesus Christ at the beginning of chapter two, Luke directs our thoughts to the shepherds, who had a multitude of angels visit them in the night. There was first just one angel that came to speak
to the shepherds. We read that the shepherds were afraid when they saw the angel.
The angel said, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”
After that, the angel with the heavenly host went away from the shepherds and the shepherds went to find the baby — and they found him just as they were told.
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 a maximum of 700 words in length and include a headshot of the author, along with a short bio on the writer.
Email editor@ kamloopsthisweek.com.
1,
Excessive spending in recent days may have you feeling nervous about your finances, Aries. In addition to bills, you could be waiting to be reimbursed. Be patient.
Taurus, you may have been working so hard you haven’t had time to spend with family and friends lately. Clear your calendar and make some time for recreation.
GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21
This week you may lock yourself behind closed doors and enjoy some alone time for a change, Gemini. Relax with a good book or binge watch some television.
A friendship could be tested when you get into a quarrel over money, Cancer. You each have different philosophies on spending. Try to see both sides.
Philosophy and religious principles are of interest to you lately, Leo. Explore the metaphysical and dive into these subjects with all of your energy.
VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you could be longing for a vacation, so why not make it happen?
If you’ve socked away some cash, put it towards a trip to recharge and relax.
FEBRUARY 1, 2023 - FEBRUARY 8, 2023
Make an effort to reconnect with someone you have known a long time who has become absent from your life. Resolve to maintain this connection in the years ahead.
Honest communication can take you through a rough patch you might be having with your romantic partner, Scorpio. Speak openly and honestly to resolve the issue.
Keep your eyes focused on the future, Sagittarius. It’s easy to dwell on what happened in the past, but that won’t matter much in the grand scheme of things.
TR
Location: Sandman Signature Hotel
A miscommunication could find you spending money you just don’t have right now, Capricorn. This may be an instance when you need to seek a professional to sort it all out.
Aquarius, a project that has been on the calendar for some time finally gets completed. It has been a long time coming, but the results are better than you expected.
FOR MORE INFO (INCLUDING REGISTR ATION) EMAIL : INFO@RUNCLUB .CA OR MEMBERSHIP@RUNCLUB .CA • WEBSITE : WWW.RUNCLUB .CA A36 WEDNESDAY, February
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 HallattACROSS
1. Deets, say
5. Like pangolins and armadillos
10. Pacific weather phenomenon
16. 000-00-0002, for Mr Burns on ‘‘ The Simpsons ’: Abbr
19. Apt name for a protester?
20. Shire of ‘‘ The Godfather ’’
21. What s the ____?’
22. Job-listing letters
23. Play about love and hear tbreak in ancient Greece [1605, 431 B.C.]
27. Danger
28. Cater (to)
29. Where people might come to a happy medium?
30. Is wor th it
32. The Taming of the Shrew sister
36. Wheels
37. Timeless children s classic about countr y dwellers friendships [1908, 1881]
41. Farm cr y
43. Vented appliance
44. Comedy talk show from 2003 to 2022, familiarly
45. Superlative score
48. ‘Great Caesar ’s ghost!’’
50. Eat, baby-style
56. Timid
58. I t s symbolized by a crescent moon and star
63. Jewish folk lore creature
64. Magnum opus about a young man, family and the concept of free will [1866, 1965]
70. Not according to plan
73. Celebrity chef DiSpirito
74. ‘Go ahead shoot!’
75. Major and Commander, to Biden
76. Coming- of-age novel about a teenage boy and his isolation [1951, 1986]
80. Like an old apple
81. Chicken (South Asian dish)
82. Phenomenon also k nown as data decay
86. Placid
88. Rapper Thee Stallion
93. Drudges
94. Celebrator y smoke
99. Veered, as an airplane
101. Just peachy
102. Tale about soldiers and treacher y in southern Europe [1940, 1603]
110. Polynesian greeting
111. Kleenex : tissue :: stick y note
112. Yellow-brown shade
115. Mercur y and Mars, for two
117. Grp promoting world peace
120. College athletics channel
121. ‘In a nutshell ’ .?.?. or an alternative title for this puzzle?
126. Wallach of ‘‘Baby Doll’
127. Stoat in its white winter coat
128. Lawyer ’s favorite desser t?
129. Asteroid discovered in 1898
130. Name that means k ing
131. City that lends its name to a variety of ice cream
132. Warren in the Baseball Hall of Fame
133. Fashion letters
DOWN
1. Modern k ind of purchase
2. Locale for many Panhellenic Games
3. ‘Rapunzel or ‘Rumpelstiltsk in
5. Poker great Ungar
10. Persian Gulf territor y
11. Gamer s headache
12. Degree in mathematics?
13. Voice role for Snoop Dogg in 2019’s The Addams Family ’’
14. Federal agent who was the inspiration for Dick Trac y
15. Nightmare
16. Addressed
17. Manatee
18. Adspeak claim of convenience
24. Gin add-in
25. German refusal
26. One of Cuba’s Castros
31. Subject line abbreviation
33. Wild group for shor t
34. One of many in the ‘Disney Morgue ’
35. Leave gobsmacked
38. Scoreboard letters at MetLife Stadium
39. D.O.J branch
40. Helpful connections
41. Halloween symbol
42. Busy month for a C.P.A.
46. Turn from an old pallet into a bookcase, for example
47. Title for Charlie Chaplin
49. ‘‘ Toy Stor y ’ toy tor turer 51. ‘‘I can’t believe this!’’ 52. Go head to head (with) 53. Paul who painted ‘Cat and Bird ’
By Michael Schlossberg
School District No 58 is accepting applications for Computer Technician I / II in Merritt
This is a unionized position that offers a 37 5 hour work week plus a comprehensive benefit package including Municipal Pension, health, vacation, and sick benefits An eligibility list will be kept for up to one (1) year
Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at www.sd58.bc.ca, click on Jobs, Suppor t Positions, and Current Job Oppor tunities (Job Code 3353563) complete with cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references Please include all relevant cer tifications during the application process
For fur ther information please contact Jody McGifford – Executive Assistant at 250 315 1108
Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted
Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightening they Do not go gentle into that good night.
Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night.
Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
by Dylan Thomas
in silence
I love you forever and always, Doug Dawn
Who passed away on January 27, 2015
I thought of you with love today, But that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, And days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. Now all I have is memories, And your picture in a frame. Your memory is my keepsake, With which I’ll never part. God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart
Your Loving Wife Elsie
After a long illness, it is with great sadness, but also peace, that we announce the passing of Katherine Lock on January 4, 2023.
Kathie is survived by her husband Dennis, daughters KathieLynn and Beth, son-in-law Dan, granddaughter Lilah, brother Thomas, sister Leona, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Kathie was predeceased by her father Farquhar, mother Agnes, sister Margaret, and sisters-in-law Lucille and Eileen.
She was born on March 21, 1945 in Meadow Lake, SK, the third child of Agnes and Farquhar McRae. She graduated from Carpenter High School in 1963.
This was followed by her first job where she taught a grade three class at the Catholic school. A few weeks later when a certified teacher arrived in town she was replaced.
Following her teaching experience Kathie began working at the Royal Bank. In 1966, she moved to Edmonton, AB where she lived with Margaret and her family while working at the Royal Bank and CIBC branches. When her younger sister and mother moved to Alberta in 1968 she joined them in Edmonton, Wetaskiwin, and St. Albert.
Dennis Lock and Kathie married in St. Albert on May 17, 1975 and made their home in Kamloops, BC. Kathie found great joy in being a mother and wife. She was a great homemaker When her girls were school age, Kathie started working in the office at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School (OLPH). After several years in this job she worked in retail, including Peoples Jewellers.
Kathie was a favourite aunt and thoughtful friend to many She was always a caring, kind and prayerful lady
The family would like to thank Dr Stefanuk and the staff of the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home for the care and comfort provided to Kathie in her final days. Also a special thank you is extended to Father Rajesh Madtha from OLPH who came to administer the sacrament of the sick both at home and at the Hospice.
A Memorial Mass will be held on May 20, 2023 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kathie’s honour to a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com
December 13, 1941 - January 24, 2023
Dad went on his walkabout on January 24, 2023, at the age of 81 years. He was born in the farm house in Agassiz on December 13, 1941.
He leaves behind the love of his life, his special friend Carol McGrath, 2 sons, Terry and Greg, 3 grandsons, 3 great grandsons, his best friend brother Brian (Carol) and sister Pat (Dennis), also extended family KC, Dale (Donna), Trevor (Jean-Ann), Aaron (Janice) also nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his mother Helen and father Ted Clarke and his oldest brother Stan.
Dad had an interesting and challenging career with B.C. Corrections where he started out at the old Provincial Jail on Columbia St., Kamloops, as an auxiliary officer, he quickly advanced to be the Warden in charge of 4 correctional centers in the interior region. He retired at the age of 51 after 25 years of service so he could spend his time fishing, hunting, camping and skiing at Sun Peaks.
Dad ordered that there be no service.
We are saddened to announce the passing of Sherman Abraham on January 10, 2023.
Sherman is survived by his wife of 59 years, Anne; children Darren (Sherri), Paula (Barry), and Kim. He will also be missed dearly by his grandchildren which he was incredibly proud of: Justin (Mariah), Tyler (Kristen), Brennan, Caelan, Jeremy, and Sydni, as well as his great grandson Matteo.
He was predeceased by several close to him, including more recently, his sister Shirley and brother-in-law Larry
Sherman was born in Kelowna, moved to Kamloops when he was quite young, and grew up in Brocklehurst. He met Anne while attending Norkam Senior High and they married in 1964.
To everyone that knew Sherman, he was known as a straight shooter, a “tell it like it is”, no bull kinda guy He was intelligent and quick thinking, and these qualities made him adaptable to many different occupations during his life. Most notably, he will be remembered for running the Turkey Farm at Jamieson Creek for many years, as well as the Piva Hay Ranch and City Compost site on Tranquille Rd.
For his family though, Sherman will be remembered as their fierce protector; he was hard core to his soul and was always ready to step in. He was also the keeper of old family stories and was very interested in ancestral research, passing this legacy and information onto his children and grandchildren.
He also happily acquired many 4 legged companions throughout his life, taking in several strays that were left near the farms. His favourite was a border collie, Jake, that he took in while on the hay ranch. Inseparable, he used to refer to them as “Jake and the Fatman”.
Farm life also allowed him winters off and he took advantage of it, enjoying several vacations to sunny destinations. Many times it was with his kids in tow, creating for them some amazing and unforgettable memories.
Sherman retired to Sorrento 13 years ago, where his life became more laid back and he focussed on simpler things like gardening. He had always had a large garden wherever he lived, was known for his tomatoes, and was always sharing produce with friends and family
Not long before his passing he said, “it’s been a helluva ride” and it was. We’re grateful to have been on it with him. Goodbye Dad.
There will be no service at Sherman’s request. His ashes will be scattered at a later date by his family
It is with great sadness that we announce that Allan Crawley, 62, of Barriere, passed away on November 22, 2022 from complications with diabetes.
He was predeceased by his mother Barbara, father Bruce, and sister Sheila.
He is survived by his sister June Whittal, daughter Amanda (Trevor), son Jason (Candice), grandchildren Jonathan, Faith, Shyla, and Joey As well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Allan grew up in Quebec and moved to BC when he was 20. He enjoyed spending time with his family and going on long motorcycle rides when the weather was good. He had a huge love for music. Even though he couldn’t play an instrument, he played a stereo real well.
A celebration of life will be scheduled in Spring.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choosing in his honour
Condolences may be sent to DrakeCremation.com
Q. I can’t afford it...what should I do?
A. Usually someone pays by Visa and reimburses themselves when the CPP death benefit ($2500) ar r ives a couple of months from now. If Mur ray isn’t eligible for the CPP death benefit and money ’ s tight we connect Alice with the BC gover nment ministr y ; they cover most cost s
April 6, 1937 - December 4, 2022
On December 4, 2022, our Mom passed away after a 10 year battle with Alzheimer ’s Disease. Mom was born in Red Deer, AB to parents Clifford and Elizabeth Taylor Norma was the youngest of 3 children. She grew up there and then met her first love, they moved to Vancouver, BC where they could be close to more family
An opportunity came up in 1963 for them to move their family to Kamloops where they would eventually own their own business, the Brocklehurst Texaco where they worked hard and provided wonderful experiences for their family in and around the Kamloops outdoors. When the kids were all grown Mom went to work and held a variety of administrative positions, her last job held prior to retiring that she loved dearly, was working with children at Gold's Gym where she was notably appreciated and loved for all her kindness and care she provided to the children and their families throughout her time there.
In her retirement years, she spent much time with her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren which always brought her much joy and happiness. She and her late husband, Andy Heron also had a passion for travel and had joined a local RV Club where they took on many exciting adventures together with the group and developed many lasting friendships. She also had a tight connection with a few close lady friends whom she would go to see many Western Canada Theatre productions with, take lots of walks around McArthur Island and often finish off with coffee at the A&W on the North Shore. In the last several years her son would pick her up from her Care Home at Ridgeview Lodge, where she was fondly known as Hot Rod Momma. She so looked forward to her adventures with Steve-O and his bright Orange Chevelle SS.
Norma is survived by her 4 children; Kathy Stocks (Juergen), Steve Davis, Cindy Davis-Johnston (Greg), and Karen Davis-Marrelli (Elio). She is also survived by 8 granchildren; Laurie (Josh) McGowan, Diana (Wayne) Halverson, Sara (Tyler) Galis, Tyler Fairbur (Amanda Bahm), Natasha & (Owen) McCabe, Jessica Fairburn, Taya (Matthew) Kryger, Emma-Lea Marrelli. She also leaves 12 great-grandchildren; Hunter Halverson, Madeline; Charlotte; Beatrice & Amelia McGowan, Roman Stocks-Gallis, Kassidy; Erika & Deakin McCabe, Lucas Bahm, Beau & Maya Kryger She is also survived by numerous other relatives throughout Alberta and BC.
The family would like to acknowledge Dr Howie and all the wonderful staff at Overlander Extended Care and Ridgeview Lodge for providing much kindness, comfort and support to Mom over the years she spent in their care.
A celebration of life will be held in the Spring.
Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com
It is with sadness that Bob’s family announce his sudden passing on January 4, 2023.
Bob will be lovingly remembered by Carol, his wife of 40 years, Bonnie (Kevin) McBride, Bobbi (Colin) Campbell, Andrew (Kristen) Clark, grandchildren Aurora, Sellene, Asher, Braven, Evie, Emilee, Dylan, Kaisley and Colt, sisters Cathy (Tom) Cavaletto and Ruth Clark (Ron Niegum) as well as numerous extended family and close friends.
Bob is predeceased by his parents James and Hazel Clark, brother Don Johnson and sister Flo Reid.
Born in Kelowna, British Columbia, Bob was raised in Kamloops, British Columbia. This is where Bob would start his family and commercial driving career Commercial driving took him all over North America for over 40 years. Bob moved to Alberta in the early 80’s where he would establish roots to grow his family After meeting Carol and buying a farm outside of Mundare, Bob became an active member of the community by joining the RCMP as an Auxiliary Constable. Bob enjoyed nothing more than working on the farm, cuddling up with his dogs and telling a good joke.
Cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Diabetes Canada in Bob’s name.
April 20, 1948 - January 26, 2023
It is with great sadness that her husband Murray and son, Tyler announce that she passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 26th, 2023, at her residence Pine Grove Care Centre, Kamloops.
Loving wife of Murray Case and mother of Tyler Case (Nadine Hanna). Very proud Grandma of Emmie Case. Dorothy will be missed by her sister, Marie (Nick) Paskiewich, and Tom (Jean) Whibley as well as her many brothers and sisters in-law, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Jack (Walter) and Beryl Whibley, and brothers, Alfred and Roy
Dorothy was born in Prince George, B.C. on April 20, 1948 and moved to Lillooet as a child where she went to school. She eventually moved to Kamloops, and worked for the Ministry of Forestry for many years. Dorothy was passionate about gardening and spent a lot of time in her flowerbeds. She enjoyed hiking/geocaching in the summer and curling and snowshoeing in the winter Dorothy enjoyed playing games and never turned down a card game with her family or friends. She enjoyed going on family camping trips and watching her son Tyler play hockey when he was young. In the later years, she proudly followed Tyler ’s racing career
Dorothy was loved by everyone who knew her and will be cherished forever
Dorothy’s family would like to thank the staff at Pine Grove Care Centre for their care and compassion.
At Dorothy’s request, a cremation has taken place. There will be no formal service. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.
Condolences may be expressed at: www.firstmemorialkamloops.com
August 31, 1944 - January 22, 2023
The family of Patrick is sad to announce his passing on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at 78 years old.
Pat is survived by his children Kathleen (Jeff) Danforth and Ryan (Ashleigh) Kavanagh, and three grandchildren Abbey, Sadie, and Isaac. He also leaves behind his sisters Mary JoAnne and Barbara, brothers Michael, John, Jim, and Ken. As well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Pat was predeceased by his wife Gwendolynne Kavanagh (née Jones), parents Reginald and Audrey Kavanagh, siblings Maggie, Carmel, Al and David.
Pat grew up in a large family in Surrey, BC when that area was still farmland. He met his wife Gwen in Vancouver, BC in 1969 and they married the same year After several moves, they settled in Kamloops, BC in 1972. Pat loved Kamloops and enjoyed telling everyone that he liked it so much he changed jobs three times to stay there. He was a long-time member of the Kinsmen/K40 Club, and the Rotary Club. He also enjoyed volunteering on the Western Canada Theater board. Pat’s favourite work was the 25 years he spent with Investors Group. He loved working with his clients and missed them once he retired. Pat was an avid reader, loved cars, travelling and watching the financial markets. He also enjoyed developing his skills as a cook later in life.
His family would like to thank the staff and residents of RiverBend Seniors Community, for welcoming dad and making his last few months so enjoyable.
There will be a celebration of life later in the spring.
Condolences may be expressed at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com
It is with great sorrow that the family of Edward (Ted) Erickson would like to share his peaceful passing on Monday, January 23, 2023, at the Royal Inland Hospital, Kamloops, BC. Ted ended his amazing journey in this life at the age of 86.
Many of you will know Ted from his selfless decades of service to the community of Kamloops in just about every capacity imaginable. Ted was a decorated volunteer for his work with the KIBIHT (Hockey), KIBT (Baseball), Kinsmen (Life Member) and K-40, TRU Sports Task Force, the Westsyde Community Development Society, Westsyde Bluewave Football and many more organizations too long to list. Ted was honored by the City of Kamloops when he received the Distinguished Service Award in 2014 which he said he happily shared with his wife Evelyne.
Ted was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on October 24, 1936. He was the first child of Niles and Lorna Erickson.
It was in Winnipeg that Ted met and married the love of his life, Evelyne (Anderson) on September 21, 1957. The couple moved West to Vancouver, Nanaimo and eventually Kamloops where Ted worked the rest of his career in the tire industry with Goodyear and Kal Tire.
Ted was predeceased by his parents and his sister Joan Melanson (PEI) and other family members in Winnipeg. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Ev Erickson, and son Mitch Erickson (Kathy) and daughter Karen Noel (Terry) and his four grandchildren Jon Noel (Tash), Brooklyn Noel (Tomikka), Cassidy Noel (Graham), Nikki Noel (Brandon) and nieces and nephews. All of whom he loved very much. Family was everything to Ted and he loved nothing more than a family gathering either in Kamloops or Salmon Arm he was always ready!
His family would like to thank the staff at RIH 5 south for everything they did to keep dad more comfortable during his time there and Dr McLaren for looking after him all these years. Dad was very proud to always point out that he was Dr McLaren’s 7th patient.
A celebration to honour the incredible life of such a loving and generous husband, father and grandfather will be held by the family at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com
Apri1 22, 1966 - January 27, 2022
Predeceased by his parents, Flora Baker and Gerald Baker, sisterin-law Penelope Fleetwood, and niece Alysha Sebus.
Survived by his sisters, Geraldine Baker, Sandra Paras and husband Lito, brother Steven Baker and partner Parissa. Nieces Andie Paras, Charisse Baker and husband Rob, James Baker and Cecilia Paras. Also aunts and numerous cousins.
We have lost our beautiful brother From the age of nine, Richard faced a lifelong struggle with juvenile onset diabetes.
He worked as an electrician for many years until health problems arose. In 2013 he received a kidney and pancreatic transplant which gave him a much better quality of life. He faced life with great courage. We will forever miss your brilliant mind and razor wit. Please keep in mind the organ donation program.
