Kamloops This Week October 26, 2022

The gavel falls on a storied political career

JESSICA WALLACE STAFF REPORTER jessica@kamloopsthisweek.com

Ken Christian — who repeat edly topped the polls at all lev els of civic politics over three decades and who referred to himself as a “water and sewer mayor” — will wrap up his time in public office in the same environment it started.

On Nov. 1, an event will mark the official opening of the Valleyview secondary expan sion and Christian will be there in his final act as mayor. It will be a full-circle moment for Christian, who started his political career as a school board trustee nearly 30 years ago and

whose fingerprints were all over the Valleyview file.

Before Christian became mayor in 2017 and before he was first elected as a city councillor in 2011, he spent 18 years on the KamloopsThompson school board, including eight years as chair. He was 39 when first elected and recalled the “euphoria” of victory. Now 68, Christian is retiring to spend more time with family and explore new opportunities.

Christian also served on the Kamloops Airport Authority, Thompson Regional Hospital District and Thompson-Nicola Regional District. He topped the polls in all but one election — the first, in 1993, when he came within 17 votes of first-place trustee finisher John O’Fee, who recently topped the

polls again when re-elected as a school board trustee on Oct. 15.

Christian said he was able to maintain his popularity by working hard and being available and honest with the public. He is also wellread, well-spoken and informed.

Mayor-elect Reid Hamer-Jackson has joked about Christian’s ability to use big words. Indeed, Christian’s vocabulary is extensive and his quotes were the rare ones at council that required, at times, a dictionary reference. Christian said it is necessary to put time into researching issues because a mayor cannot sit down with someone like premier-designate David Eby — who he described as “very, very smart” — without facts. For example, Christian looked into local data on prolific offenders in

order to understand drivers and distribution of the problem.

“I always made sure I was well briefed and I would do some of that on my own and some of that with the support of staff, so that was really important,” Christian said. “You can’t just go into some of these meetings kind of haphaz ardly, saying, ‘Jeez, you know, I’d really like you guys to take over Noble Creek Water System’ or something. You have to really understand the history of all these things, so that was a hallmark of the way I operated, whether I was a school trustee or chair of the school board or regional district person or councillor or mayor here.”

Mayor Ken Christian will wrap up a three-decade stint in civic politics on Nov. 1. He has been a school trustee, a city councillor and a mayor — and only once did not top the polls.

MICHAEL POTESTIO/KTW

See DISASTER,

INSIDE TODAY’S EDITION: MEET THE WOMEN OF THE THOMPSON VALLEY

C I T Y PAG E

Stay Connec ted @CityofKamloops Kamloops.ca

Council Calendar

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

October 27, 2022 (cancelled)

2:00 pm Community Services Committee

November 1, 2022

7:00 pm Inaugural Meeting

TRU Grand Hall, 1055 University Drive

November 15, 2022

1:30 pm Regular Council Meeting

November 21, 2022 (cancelled)

2:00 pm Community Relations and Administration Committee

November 22, 2022

10:00 am Committee of the Whole

November 29, 2022

1:30 pm Regular Council

The complete 2022 Council Calendar is available online at: Kamloops.ca/CouncilCalendar

Council Meeting Recap

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

Notice to Motorists

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

• Lorne Street

Mt. Paul Way to River Street

• Highland Road Highway 1 to Valleyview Drive

• Flamingo Road

Highland Road to Glenwood Drive

• 12th Street

Tranquille Road to Kenora Road

• 6th Avenue

Columbia Street to Battle Street

• Valhalla Drive

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

Kamloops.ca/Kammute

Consider a Career With Us

W O O D S T O V E R E B AT E P R O G R A M S

Do you have an older, uncer tified wood-burning appliance? Upgrade it and you may be eligible for rebates Elec trify it!

Get fired up about electric! The rebate amount for electric fireplace inser ts is 50% off the appliance to a maximum of $700, and the rebate amount for electric heat pumps is $1,200.

For more information, visit: Kamloops.ca/ WoodStove

M A K E Y O U R H A L LO W E E N , H A L LO G R E E N !

In an effor t to celebrate Halloween in a more sustainable way, here are some tips to reduce waste:

• Host a costume swap par ty ; borrow, rent, or purchase a secondhand costume; or make your own costume

• Rec ycle pack aging Small cardboard boxes and aluminum foil wrappers can be put in your curbside rec ycling bin.

• Plastic wrappers from candy, chocolate bars, and cook ies can be taken to General Grant ’s Sahali or Nor th Shore locations for rec ycling Use the Waste Wise app to see what goes where

• Give green items instead of candy. Wildflower seeds, pencils, or items made from rec ycled paper, such as book marks, playing cards, and mini notebooks, are unique ideas

• Bring your own reusable bag or decorate an old pillowcase for collecting treats

• Invest in reusable decorations to store and use for future years or swap with friends for new decor

Find more waste reduction tips at: Kamloops.ca/WasteReduc tion

F R E E W O R K S H O P F O R B U S I N E S S O W N E R S

This November, the City of K amloops is par tnering with the K amloops Chamber of Commerce to offer local businesses a three -par t vir tual workshop on how to gain a competitive edge when responding to government requests for proposals and tenders These three, fast-paced, 90-minute, interactive sessions will be facilitated by Maureen Sullivan, Director of Education a t Th e Procurement School, Canada’s leader in providing engaging, interactive, online learning programs for procurement professionals

The sessions will run 8:30–10:00am on the following Wednesdays: November 2, 9, and 16.

Renewal notices have been sent out via mail and through email for owners who have registered their dog account on MyCity. Any unpaid dog licence fees on the account for 2022 or previous years have been carried over to the 2023 invoice Any payment made after January 1 will automatically have a late payment penalty of $32.50 applied to the account

HOW TO PAY

• Pay for your licence online via credit card, Visa/Mastercard Debit, or Interac at: Kamloops.ca/PayOnline

• Pay in person at Community Ser vices at the Nor th Shore Community Policing O ffice (915 7th Street) or City Hall (7 Victoria Street West)

employees who work in a variety of fulfilling and challenging careers. Visit: Kamloops.ca/Jobs

Join our team of over

Repor t an issue: 250-828-3461

For after-hours emergencies, press 1.

Take a deep dive into a narrow topic and gain the knowledge and skills you need to ensure you are putting your best foot for ward the next time you bid on a government project

To register, visit: KamloopsChamber.ca/Event/ Procurement-Workshop

Residents are reminded that if a significant change in dog ownership occurs, such as rehoming or if the animal is deceased, the dog owner must contact Community Ser vices directly to have the animal removed from the database to be withdrawn from the licence renewal process. This step is not available online. Full detail are available at: Kamloops.ca/Dogs

City Hall: 7 Victoria Street West, K amloops, BC, V2C 1A2 | 250-828-3311

2023 D O G L I C E N C E S A R E D U E J A N U A R Y 1

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MEET THE CITY’S NEW TOP COP

Jeff Pelley is now heading the Kamloops RCMP detachment

A10

SEARCH STILL A PRIORITY

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops resident Shannon White remains missing nearly one year after she was last seen, but police say her disappearance remains a pri ority for the RCMP’s serious crimes unit.

Police believe White was the victim of foul play. Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley said the White investigation continues to advance, but noted police cannot release details at this time.

“There hasn’t been any change from what we last released to you, but I can assure you the investigation is still continuing,” Pelley told KTW. “And when I say there hasn’t been any change, it doesn’t mean that we’re not progress ing.”

White, 32, was last seen on Nov. 1, 2021, leav ing her Bestwick Court home in Lower Sahali to drive five minutes to her job at Kamloops Hyundai in Southgate.

Her black 1997 Jeep TJ was found aban doned the next afternoon, Nov. 2, downtown in the 200-block of Nicola Street.

Via email, Kamloops RCMP Staff Sgt. Todd Wiebe of the serious crime unit told KTW police have collected and reviewed a large amount of evidence and information related to the White investigation, which he said has not gone cold as the one-year anniversary of her disappearance approaches.

“We have invested a significant amount of resources in an effort to learn the circumstances of her disappearance,” Wiebe said, noting police continue to encourage anyone who may have information about White’s disappearance to

come forward to speak to an investigator.

CAMPING OUT FOR A GOOD CAUSE A15

Dec. 9 is the annual event to raise money to address youth homelessness

Wiebe did not directly address KTW’s ques tions of whether police are investigating any new leads in the White investigation, nor whether there are new areas of interest police can point to in requesting information from the public to advance their investigation.

A missing persons file is never considered cold, but rather remains active until the person is located, RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said.

In the days that followed White’s disappear ance, police alerted the public that her vehicle was spotted twice on Nov. 1, 2021, and launched numerous searches of forested areas around those routes. They would also attend the Silver Sage Trailer Court, where they searched the trav el trailer of White’s ex-boyfriend. White’s friends have told KTW the two had a tumultuous rela tionship and breakup about a year before she vanished. A resident in the park told KTW the RCMP seized three vehicles from the property. To date, no charges have been laid in connec tion with White’s disappearance.

White’s Jeep was observed driving along Highway 1 west of Kamloops shortly after she was expected to have arrived at Hyundai at 8:30 a.m. The Jeep was seen returning eastward toward the city about 45 minutes later. At about 5:30 p.m. that day, the Jeep was seen travelling north on Highway 5, past Rayleigh and toward Heffley Creek, before returning south toward Kamloops 45 minutes later, according to police.

No new details have come from the RCMP since then, which was about three weeks after White disappeared.

RAISING FUNDS AT ONE-YEAR MARK

Kamloops Hyundai is raising funds to raise awareness of the one-year mark since their col league Shannon White went missing.

The 32-year-old vanished on Nov. 1, 2021, after leaving her Bestwick Court home in Lower Sahali to drive two kilometres to her job at Kamloops Hyundai at 940 Notre Dame Dr. in Southgate. Her black 1997 Jeep TJ was found abandoned the next afternoon, Nov. 2, down town in the 200-block of Nicola Street.

Megan Storz, the dealership’s service man ager, told KTW the business will be collecting donations on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with raffle prizes and refreshments for those who drop in.

“She was a big part of a lot of people’s lives here,” Storz said of White, who worked for Hyundai as an accounting clerk for about three years.

Storz said the donations collected will go to support Kamloops Search and Rescue, not ing e-transfers will also be accepted.

Official Kamloops Search and Rescue searches for White ended last November, but many public searches involving its team mem bers have been ongoing.

“We believe Kamloops Search and Rescue is a huge part of the community and help search for more than just missing people,” Storz said.

“Her presence at the dealership is dearly missed,” Storz said.

She described White’s disappearance as “surreal” and said employees at the dealership are a close-knit group, noting they have sup ported each other this past year as their col league remains missing.

“We try not to dwell and think on it too much because we kind of get sucked down this black hole of despair with the lack of answers,” Storz said.

— Michael Potestio/KTW

See NO ARRESTS, A14

Shannon White vanished on Nov. 1, 2021. Her Jeep was found downtown the next day. At right is a tattoo on White’s left arm, of her dog, Buddy.

at

LOCAL NEWS

Entire Kamloops apartment building emptied due to life safety hazards

MICHAEL POTESTIO SEAN BRADY STAFF REPORTERS

A resident of a downtown apartment building cleared by Kamloops Fire Rescue last week said the state of the building has been deteriorating over the course of the past year and interpersonal issues of people squatting in the building have been ongoing since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sar ai

Matthew Gray has lived at 91 Seymour St. for the past nine years. He said the current owners of the building have been in place since this past spring and suspects they have been ignoring issues in an attempt to force tenants like himself out.

Gray said he wants to see all the squatting in the building removed and the required repairs completed — something he said he has been asking for since the new ownership took over the building in the spring. He claimed co-owner Daljinder Aujla ignored messages from him, asking to repair damages in the building and get squatters removed.

“Those squatters were damaging the building. They didn’t care, they were just happy to not be out on the streets,” Gray said.

“They would kick holes in the walls, they broke the washer and dryer, they broke the washrooms.”

Gray noted the poor conditions of the building, squatters and people using drugs in the hallways, which led to at least one person opting to move out. Gray said he was the tenant who made a complaint to the fire department in May, citing issues such as a broken fire alarm, blazes in the building and exposed wiring.

He said he raised the concerns multiple times and only saw the building manager attend one of about four or five visits from the fire department.

“They ignored it, just like they ignored everything else,” he said.

Gray said there are about nine legal tenants of the building, including himself, but only about four were still living there when KFR attended last week.

He said the owners have put them up at a motel in Aberdeen as they await completion of the repairs. He said he’s not sure how long he will have to wait, but feels reassured by KFR Chief Ken Uzeloc’s comments that the fire department does not want to see the situation dragged out.

According to KFR’s notice of inspection, taped to the front door of 91 Seymour St., a numbered company — 1347100 B.C. Ltd. — owns the building and its directors are listed as Daljinder Aujla, Jatinder Bains, Balbir Chhoker, Varinder Dhanoa and Gurpreet Jhalli.

91 Seymour St. W. is a two-storey, 10-unit apartment building. It was ordered evacuated on Oct. 20. Uzeloc said that complaint prompted fire inspectors to start looking at the building, with clean-up orders and

other work that needed to be done. Periodic inspections following those orders were rescheduled, Uzeloc said.

In June, KFR responded to a fire in one of the suites. Uzeloc said inspectors noticed several code-related issues in the building and ordered repairs following the blaze.

On Oct. 14, a scheduled follow-up inspection of the building showed it had deteriorated even more.

Days later, KFR gave notice to residents that firefighters would require uninhibited access to all rooms of the building for further inspection.

“We found numerous violations. We found smoke alarms and heat detectors that were not activated ... We found exposed electrical wires, where you could see in some suites, where they had been arcing and burning into the roofing material,” Uzeloc said.

He also noted evidence of hoarding, with combustible debris surrounding hot plates and camping stoves used for cooking.

“It became very evident to us that this was really unsafe. It wasn’t a matter of if, it was a matter of when something happened,” Uzeloc said, leading to the decision to empty the building.

“Ultimately, this is an extreme case. I haven’t seen a building this bad in probably 20 years in the fire service. Thirty years ago, yeah, but in the last 20 years, with the regulations and codes? I haven’t seen a building this bad,” he said.

Reached by telephone last week, co-owner Aujla told KTW he was in Kamloops recently to deal with the matter, but had since left the city. Aujla did not offer further comment to KTW and said he wanted to first sort out the situation.

According to his Facebook page, Daljinder Aujla is a real estate agent and partner with Bal Realty Services, a Vancouver-based company that also deals in mortgage services, investments, property management and marketing.

Kamloops Fire Rescue chief Ken Uzeloc estimated 20 to 25 people were living in the building— not all of them tenants.

MICHAEL POTESTIO/KTW

LOCAL NEWS

KFR WANTS OWNER TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY

From

The most recent assessed value listed for the property and its improvements at 91 Seymour St. W. is $1.13 million.

BC Assessment data shows the land has nearly tripled in value since 2018, when it was listed with a value of $256,000. Its 2022 land assessment is listed at $634,000.

Uzeloc said the clean-up orders and list of violations were hand-delivered to the landlord on Thursday, noting it was made clear what needed to be done expediently in order to get tenants back in the building.

Uzeloc estimated 20 to 25 people are living in the building — not all of them tenants. He said the tenants are now staying in hotels.

The timeline moving forward is not yet clear. Uzeloc said contractors are working on delivering estimates of how long the work will take, noting several serious electrical issues in the building, including exposed wires and other cords tapping into the power.

“For us, that plan is not going to be a six-month plan. We will be pushing to make sure that plan is done as quickly as possible so that the tenants can be placed back into their residence,” Uzeloc said.

He said fines may be levied if the work is not carried out quickly.

“Obviously, we don’t want to do that. We’d like the owner to take responsibility and do the appropriate things to get the building up to code,” Uzeloc said.

FOR THE

BURNHAM

Workplace Investigations - what's the point?

Workplace investigations are intended ser ve as a guide for employers, to assist in fixing current issues and to prevent future ones from arising Sometimes, these investigations can be completed internally by human resources, but in other cases it may be more prudent to have one completed independently, especially where allegations of harassment are involved.

If a cour t finds an employee was wrongfully terminated, an improperly conducted investigation could open an employer to aggravated or punitive damages as in, damages in excess of what would t ypically be awarded as severance pay In some human rights complaints, an employer could be found liable for failing to properly investigate the claim even if the claim itself is unable to be proven

Kamloops This Week is a politically independent newspaper, published Wednesdays at 1365-B Dalhousie Dr., Kamloops, B.C., V2C 5P6 Phone: 250-374-7467 | Fax: 250-374-1033 email: editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

Partnerships needed for student housing OPINION

Thompson Rivers University has long recognized the critical importance of housing for students.

Only when students have safe, clean and affordable shelter can they turn their full attention to their studies.

Unfortunately, too many stu dents find it hard these days to find housing that meets the above crite ria, causing them and their families much stress.

There have been plenty of stories in the media this fall about short ages of student housing in cities and university communities across Canada. For many reasons, students — especially international students — have found significant shortfalls in affordable housing, prompting some students to postpone their studies.

In Kamloops, students this semester are faring slightly better than elsewhere — and certainly bet ter than they did here in 2021.

Last year, various factors came together to cause a dire housing shortage for incoming students.

Workers with the TransMountain pipeline project were in Kamloops in greater numbers, reducing the vacancy rate. Also,

BRETT FAIRBAIRN View From TRU

evacuees from wildfires and floods across southern B.C. came to Kamloops, putting additional pres sure on short-term accommoda tions.

Lastly, the pandemic reduced the number of households willing to open their doors to homestay situa tions for students.

Some of those pressures have diminished this year and, as a result, almost all students seeking housing this fall have found places to live.

TRU still has a small number of beds available on campus. This doesn’t mean the problem is solved. We are aware of some students who did not come to this university this

semester because they couldn’t find housing they could afford.

TRU was created as a com muter campus. People from the local region came to campus for classes. For many years, a small amount of on-campus housing and inexpen sive rental suites, often in people’s homes, covered students’ needs.

But over the years, TRU has grown, which is good for the local community. The university is more and more a destination, meaning people now come from the Lower Mainland, from across Canada and from across the world.

TRU has responded by acquiring or building more housing.

Currently, we provide 1,495 beds in four complexes, with a fifth project on the way through expansion at our East Village site.

These projects provide safe, affordable accommodation, with the latter consideration often being the biggest concern for students. We know that students are often pricesensitive when it comes to housing and, as a result, they sometimes ignore on-campus opportunities in favour of lower-cost, higher-density options in the city’s rental market.

These low-quality, high-density living situations are cheap, but

cheap housing is not always good for students. These situations are some times not as safe as they should be. They are often far from campus.

Students, especially those inex perienced in the local market, must be protected from these housing options.

TRU will continue to provide more housing for students on or near the campus at an affordable price. Still, it is unlikely that we could ever offer accommodation for all students from elsewhere — and it would also be undesirable to do so.

One of the special things about TRU is our interconnections with surrounding communities. It is good for students to live, socialize, pay rent, have jobs, access services and meet and interact with people across Kamloops.

This is part of the university experience for those who choose off-campus living and is part of how TRU enriches Kamloops and the sur rounding area.

We aim to keep building student housing steadily and sustainably, adding safe and affordable options for students while recognizing that many still want to live in the com munity.

This means that TRU will need

to keep working with the City of Kamloops and the provincial govern ment for years and decades to come to address housing pressures.

TRU does not only provide hous ing for students. Our property trust has worked with private developers to create The Reach, an on-campus community with hundreds of attrac tive market-cost rental and condo minium units.

Some students, faculty, and staff live there, but mainly these units add quality stock to the Kamloops hous ing market.

TRU is doing its best to build housing for Kamloops because we understand we have a role to play.

Private developers, the city, the province and students also have parts to play in solving and manag ing our housing problem.

We are committed to working with all our partners to find shortand long-term solutions.

Dr. Brett Fairbairn is the president and vice-chancellor at Thompson Rivers University. He can be reached by email at president@tru.ca. The View From TRU column appears monthly in KTW and online at kamloopsthisweek.com.

In Iran, all the possible options are not good

“Death to [fill in the blank]!” has been the slogan of choice chanted by Iranian protesters since the glory days of the Islamic Revolution in 1979.

It’s now 43 years later, however, and the content has become a bit more nuanced.

The most popular chant of the young

under 25) who are

going to the streets all over Iran is “Zan!

Zendegi! Azadi!” (“Women! Life! Freedom!”).

“Women” comes first because it was the beating and death in custody of a 22-year-old woman arrested for letting too much hair show under her hijab that set the protests off.

The revolt is led by young women, to the extent that it has leaders at all, and they are still

protesting after a month despite around 250 people killed by the regime’s forces and 12,500 arrested. Moreover, these protests are targeting the theocratic dictatorship as a whole, not just its various misdeeds and failings.

— Read the entire column online at kamloopsthisweek.com, under the Opinion tab.

DIGITAL

FRONT OFFICE

CIRCULATION Manager: Serena

Letters to the editor can be sent via email to editor@kamloops thisweek.com and via Canada Post to 1365B Dalhousie Dr., Kamloops, B.C., V2C 5P6.

Please include your name and a contact phone number and/or email. Please try to limit letters to a maxi mum word count of 300. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

PROMOTING LIFE, RATHER THAN PREVENTING DEATH

Editor:

As a social worker who researches suicide and regularly works with people impacted by suicide, I was saddened to read recent letters to the editor about the state of inpatient mentalhealth care in Kamloops.

Many people think of the hospital as the most appropriate resource to access when someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Understandably,

people are fearful when suicide comes up and often put their trust in the hospital to keep themselves or their loved one safe.

However, nothing about hos pitalization inherently creates safety or reduces risk for suicide. In fact, studies show that the days immediately following discharge from inpatient hospitalization are a time of very high risk.

So, what works? Suicide is

complex and there isn’t a onesize-fits-all solution. But we do know that attempting to prevent death through hospitalization and observation is simply not enough. Instead, we need to consider responses that support a connection to life and honour the dignity and humanity of the person.

A few life-oriented intervention approaches shown to be effective in inpatient treatment include:

• Safety planning during inpa tient treatment;

• Psychoeducation about cop ing skills and symptom manage ment;

• Direct and immediate con nection to community resources for ongoing support post-dis charge;

• Follow-up from the hospi tal after discharge (the Caring Contacts intervention is a great example);

• Resources and education for family and friends who may be supporting the person after they return home.

Ultimately, I implore helping professionals and systems of care responding to people at risk of suicide to consider whether the approach attempts to prevent death or, more importantly, pro motes life.

Dr. Rebecca Sanford Kamloops

A LIFE-SAVING EXPERIENCE AMID A VERY STRESSED SYSTEM

Editor:

Thank you to Royal Inland Hospital and Kelowna General Hospital.

I recently experienced a life-changing event. On Oct. 10 at approximately 10 p.m., I arrived at the RIH emergency department with chest pain. Upon arrival, there was a long line of patients waiting to be treated and patients occupying all of the emergency beds.

What I really want to share with KTW readers is that I hear how the medical system is broken and coming apart at the seams.

That night, I definitely could see how overwhelmed the ER department was.

The ER doctor who treated me looked tired, the nurses looked tired and the lab technologist was working alone, drawing all the blood by herself, because her co-worker had called in sick.

All of these people were working in a highly stressful and very busy environment. Through it all, they were able to treat me effectively and successfully. I was grateful for the diagnosis and I was grateful for the treatment I received on 7 North before I was transferred to Kelowna.

The paramedics and the heart nurse, Diane, were all very profes sional people who kept my mind at ease

that they had me covered.

I had the procedure in Kelowna per formed by Dr. Billingsley and was trans ported back to Kamloops with my team of paramedics and Diane.

Every one of these individuals working

over those few days all played an important part in saving my life.

I believe there is no quick fix for our med ical system, but I am grateful for all the war riors who work at Royal Inland and Kelowna General hospitals.

They go to work every day and their work affects the lives of so many. They need to know we stand behind them and appreciate what they do.

A very sincere thank you from myself and my family. You all make a difference.

Kurt Perris Kamloops

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

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

Read more letters and columns online at

Pelley now leads Kamloops RCMP

MICHAEL POTESTIO STAFF REPORTER michael@kamloopsthisweek.com

Kamloops’ next top cop plans to be in the Tournament Capital for the long term.

Longtime RCMP member Jeff Pelley officially begins his tenure as the local detachment’s super intendent on Wednesday, suc ceeding outgoing detachment commander Syd Lecky, who is departing to accept a promotion to the rank of chief superinten dent in the Northwest Territories, stationed out of Yellowknife.

Pelley is being promoted from his previous position of inspector and second-in-com mand of the Kamloops detach ment in charge of operations, a position now in the process of being filled.

As for his goals in the new position, Pelley said he looks forward to carrying on the vision of his predecessor, bringing forward new ideas and build ing upon the Kamloops RCMP’s strategic plan. He noted initia

tives such as reducing and preventing violent crimes and property crime, collaborat ing with community groups in strategizing how to reduce crime and enhancing road safety by reducing impaired driving as areas of focus under that strate gic plan, with which he’s been involved since returning to work in Kamloops 18 months ago as

an Inspector.

“I look at the opportunity to carry those forward and strive in areas where we can improve and adapt, not just on enforce ment but also on the prevention aspect,” he said.

Pelley grew up near Kamloops — in the Cache Creek/Ashcroft area — and was previously posted to the local

New Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley succeeds Syd Lecky, who has been promoted and is now in charge of the national police force’s operations in the Northwest Territories.

Pelley had been inspector in Kamloops prior to being named detachment commander.

detachment in 2003 as a con stable.

Like Lecky, Pelley said he is also proponent of safe supply of street drugs to combat the opioid overdose crisis, but noted the need to be aware of those trafficking black market drugs within the community.

DAVE EAGLES/KTW

See ECSTATIC,

City revises number of late mail-in ballots

JESSICA WALLACE STAFF REPORTER jessica@kamloopsthisweek.com

The City of Kamloops received about 60 mail-in ballots after the Oct. 15 civic election, with those votes not counting.

Last week, the city heard as many as 400 mail-in bal lots could arrive late, based on the fact 600 of the 1,000 mail-in ballots requested were returned in time to be counted in the results.

The city did not allow the ballots to be postmarked. They were required to be submitted to the city by the time the polls closed on gen eral voting day — 8 p.m. on Oct. 15.

Chief election officer

Amanda Passmore told council last week that the city received about 50 bal

lots per day on the Monday and Tuesday that followed the election, for a total of 100 ballots that would not count.

She also told KTW the city expected the remaining ballots to trickle in over the following days.

A week later, Passmore said about 350 mail-in bal lots remain outstanding. She clarified that she had round ed up during the council meeting, with only about 60 mail-in ballots having arrived late on the Monday and Tuesday after the elec tion. She said the remaining 350 mail-in ballots are likely not lost, but rather, were not submitted.

It is possible voters who requested a mail-in ballot simply went to a polling sta tion to vote or did not vote at all. A total of five voters returned their mail-in ballots

to city hall after deciding to vote in person.

POLL BY POLL Kamloops mayor-elect

Reid Hamer-Jackson’s elec tion night victory was aided by strong support on the North Shore and in Westsyde and the east side of the city.

Meanwhile, runner-up Dieter Dudy saw strongest backing from voters up the middle of Kamloops — including downtown and Lower Sahali, Upper Sahali.

Hamer-Jackson was elect ed mayor on Oct. 15 with 7,298 votes. Dieter Dudy was second with 5,650 votes, followed by Sadie Hunter (4,578), Arjun Singh (2,932) and Ray Dhaliwal (2,629).

For all the poll by poll number crunching, read the story online at kamloops thisweek.com.

‘Ecstatic’ to be back in city

From A10

“When we work with people with addic tions, we also have to be cognizant of those responsible for targeting these individuals and trafficking illicit drugs to support their habits, so I’m going to continue to focus on that as well,” he said.

Pelley said he is also supportive of Kamloops having a community court estab lished, noting he has a meeting within the next month to strategize how Kamloops RCMP can help move such a project for ward.

“We’re advancing it and we’re working with a number of local stakeholders to prog ress forward and try and acquire that com munity court,” Pelley said.

Community courts, also known as inte grated courts, seek to reduce crime and improve public safety by uniting health and social services with the justice system to address the causes of criminal behaviour. It is not a trial court, but eligible people may have bail hearings or plead guilty and be sentenced there.

Pelley also noted expanding the Car 40 program — which pairs an RCMP officer and an Interior Health nurse on certain mental-health calls — as a priority for him in his new position, as well as continu ing to work collaboratively with the City of

Kamloops’ community service officers on problem properties in order to reduce crime and enhance community safety.

He said the detachment is also looking at strategies for how to be more proactive on holding repeat offenders to account. He noted the detachment has a prolific offender management program and just recently restarted its crime reduction unit, which was vacant the past year due to other operational needs.

Pelley has close to 23 years of policing experience with the RCMP. His career has included positions in Kamloops, Prince Rupert, Kelowna, 100 Mile House, New Hazelton, North District and Williams Lake.

He has worked in frontline operations and serious crime, has worked with Indigenous communities and has twice been a detach ment commander — in New Hazelton and Williams Lake — along with a watch com mander and an advisory NCO.

“I’m just ecstatic to be back in Kamloops,” he said.

Pelley is married to a civilian member of the RCMP and they have two children together. He enjoys playing baseball, water spots and dirt biking.

Pelley attended college in Kamloops and was the superintendent of the Williams Lake detachment for five years before transfer ring to Kamloops.

CONNECTIVE ANNOUNCES $2000

EDUCATIONAL BURSARY TO SUPPORT STUDENTS

In honour of our recently retired long-standing Board member, Connective has created the Peter Allik Petersenn Education Bursary for those pursuing education in the social justice and human services field.

Mr Peter Allik Petersenn, who retired from the Board in 2022, was an active and dedicated member of the Board for over 32 years A true representation of Connective values and principles, Peter was a steadfast advocate for the work of the organization, and provided unwavering support to the organization and the community for many years

ABOUT THE BURSARY

To acknowledge the strong relationship Connective aims to build with those pursuing education in the social justice and human services fields, we have created an educational bursary for students who strive to play a part in creating a safe, healthy, and inclusive community for all

Valued at $2000, the bursary supports students with a goal of enhancing their employment skills to help those in their community to overcome challenges and be successful in life.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To be considered for this bursary you must:

• Be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant

• Be enrolled as a full time or part time student in the academic school year

• Preference will be given to Kamloops residents and those pursuing education in the social justice or human services fields

SUBMISSION

Applicants are asked to submit the following:

• A short essay (1500 words or less) providing information on who you are, why you should receive the bursary, and how you align with our values at Connective

• Person centered

• Accountable

• Inclusive

• Collaborative

• Determined

• A description of any past/present educational programs and/or volunteering experience

• Verification of enrolment in part time or full time studies in the academic school year

SUBMISSIONS MAY BE SUBMITTED TO:

Connective Kamloops Bursary Committee , 100 529 Seymour Street Kamloops, BC, V2C 0A1

Or via email to: awards@connective.ca

TIMELINE

• Applications close: November 4, 2022

ABOUT CONNECTIVE

Everyone deserves to feel safe and included in their chosen community At Connective, we see a path forward for everyone, with opportunities to learn grow and develop on their own terms and at their own pace

Operating for more than 30 years in BC, Connective provides person centered programs and services with essential support to vulnerable and marginalized community members Our services include reintegration support, housing and homelessness prevention, employment, outreach, Community Living and other community based services that create safe healthy, and inclusive communities

connective.ca

City of Kamloops

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

Programs are cancelled if the minimum numbers are not met

NEW! Try it! Laser Biathlon $15

In this program you will be introduced to the sport of Biathlon This program will feature drills, games and relays that combine target shooting with a variety of athletic activities including running and cross training The infra red EcoAims rifle used in this program does not fire a projectile, and is the biathlon target system used by competitors in the Paralympics

West Highlands Community Centre

Sat Oct 29

10:00 AM 12:00 PM

All Youth Matter: Inclusion Training $30

This training will provide you with tools, techniques and best practices to create inclusive sport, recreation and physical activity experiences for youth from marginalized populations

Meeting Room D at Tournament Capital Centre

Sat Nov 5

8:30 AM 11:30 AM

Poppy Workshop & Cenotaph Tour $5 00

Join us as we learn about the significance of the poppy and life in Kamloops during the World Wars We will meet at the Memorial Hill Park Cenotaph for a mini Cenotaph Tour, then visit the Kamloops Museum to make poppy art Memorial Hill and Kamloops Museum and Archives

Sat Nov 5

10:30 AM 11:45 AM

Cenotaph Tour Free

Please join the KMA at the Kamloops Cenotaph in Memorial Hill Park to explore the lives and experiences of Canadian soldiers as we prepare for Remembrance Day this year

Memorial Hill

Sat Nov 5

2:00 PM 3:00 PM

Thurs Nov 10

11:00 AM 12:00 PM

LOCAL

Disaster response in last term

From A1

Christian was around the council horseshoe for issues like the proposed Ajax mine, pesticide use and urban hens. Multiple chicken-related sightings in his office — including a large photo of a rooster on his wall — are in reference to that latter issue and provided an icebreaker during various meetings.

That rooster on the office wall was purchased at the King Edward Gallery in Calgary.

“It just seemed like the right picture at the right time,” Christian said. “But then I fell in love with it, so he is about to be hung in our house, much to [wife] Brenda’s chagrin.”

He called Ajax a “wedge issue” as Kamloops changed from a resource-based economy to one more knowledge-based.

“I think it was resolved right,” Christian said of the ultimate rejection of the mine application by the provincial and federal gov ernments. “I think as we look at Kamloops’ growth, it would have really impeded the growth of the city to have something like that right on one side, particularly the side that expansion is really going to happen on.”

On the other hand, Christian said the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project has been good for Kamloops. He said it is a safe and energy-efficient way to get commodities to market, noting construction kept hotels viable during the COVID-19 pandemic, when empty rooms were filled with out-of-town pipeline workers.

The pandemic was noted by Christian as one of many unprecedented and unanticipated disasters in the last term. In addi tion, he noted the ongoing opioid overdose crisis, the deadly heat dome, forest fires, floods and the fatal Snowbirds crash.

to the incidents and said the city has much to look forward to com ing out of pandemic restrictions, with the Scotties Tournament of Hearts national women’s curling championship and the Memorial Cup major junior hockey tourna ment taking place in the city in 2023.

“I think Kamloops is set up for success,” he said.

It is, however, likely to bother the outgoing mayor that the pro posed Kamloops Centre for the Arts was not constructed under his leadership. He calls it a matter of equity when looking at the city’s investment in the sports com munity.

Christian said he is confident the project would have been approved by voters had the pan demic not led to the cancellation of a referendum on borrowing in April 2020. He noted he is con cerned about the current appetite for the project in today’s climate.

Christian said he is particularly proud of infrastructure work that continued in a growing city and of his work on the B.C. Urban Mayors Caucus.

group that has bent the ear of the provincial government.

“They listen to us for a very simple political reason — we rep resent over 50 per cent of B.C. and they’re the same group that votes for them,” he said.

Christian noted the provincial government’s prolific offender report resulted from that group and he hopes the caucus will remain in place with new mayors at the helms of the cities involved.

Christian described the role of mayor as a “busy job.”

He said people may not know the scope and breadth of the posi tion, which includes being chief executive officer of the City of Kamloops, overseeing a $200-mil lion budget and 950 staff, acting as a signing authority, responding to calls and emails and attending myriad community events as part of the office’s ceremonial compo nent.

Christian will no doubt be watching for potential adminis trative turnover, which he said can result in costly legal bills. He cautioned that senior managers like Jen Fretz, Byron McCorkell and Kathy Humphrey “don’t grow on trees.”

Christian conceded incoming mayor Hamer-Jackson’s focus on street issues resonated with voters, but the outgoing mayor is ask ing residents to take time to fully understand issues on the streets.

He noted 20 complex-care beds coming to Kamloops, calling it a “start.”

Christian said the opioid crisis is worsening and he wants to see more work on a safe supply, detox, Car 40, sobering centre and decriminalization.

“This is a health problem, not a policing problem,” he said.

Kamloops.ca

Christian said he is proud of the way council was able to react

The group of mayors from 13 larger cities was formed in response to the pandemic and morphed into a formidable lobby

After his final ceremonial appearance — at Valleyview sec ondary on Nov. 1 — Christian said he plans to go home and pour himself a cold Iron Road Locomotive Lager before becom ing another taxpaying resident watching from the sidelines.

He said he plans to stay in Kamloops.

videoshow!

He is looking forward to decompressing and spending more time with family, including wife Brenda, to whom he refers as the “First Lady,” and a new grandson.

He said he plans to take courses on governance and direc torships.

“I’m not wired to just stop, but I’m certainly not wired to keep up this pace.”

Scan herefor the latest episode!

Incoming mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson (left) chats with outgoing Mayor Ken Christian at city hall on Monday.

MICHAEL POTESTIO/KTW

Upcoming Events

ALUMNI UPDATES

Norm Daley

No arrests yet made in disappearance of White

From

Kamloops Search and Rescue ended its involvement on Nov. 21, 2021, following weeks of police-requested searches, but public search es have been ongoing, particularly in the Heffley Creek area.

Police encourage members of the public to continue searching for signs of White and ask that anything found that could be related to her disap pearance be reported to police at 250-828-3000.

Search and Rescue and Detection K9s of British Columbia president Mike Ritcey has been involved in many of those public searches. He told KTW those searches have focused on

areas where police reported White’s vehicle being seen, but have yet to yield any signs of her.

Kamloops Search and Rescue manager Alan Hobler said searches were thorough and he was surprised, if Shannon was in those areas, they didn’t find her, noting many of his members still go out to search for White on their own time.

With no new information at the one-year mark, those who knew White are left with little more than feelings of frustration and disbelief.

Matthew Hatch was a friend and landlord to White, who rented his basement on Bestwick Court. Matthew and wife Quinn were the last people to see White before she went missing.

Quinn said on the morning of Nov. 1, 2021, she was sitting in her vehicle, waiting for the windows to defrost ,when she saw White, dressed for work, walk past her in the driveway toward her Jeep. But Quinn drove away before seeing White enter the Jeep.

Matthew, who was inside the house, said he heard the Jeep pulling out and saw it being driven away, but didn’t see White enter the

vehicle or drive it.

Matthew last saw White the previous night when he took a bag of Halloween candy down to her. He said nothing seemed amiss and it didn’t seem as though anyone was downstairs with her, but couldn’t say for sure.

“It’s been a terrible year,” Matthew said,

In November 2021, police were at the Silver Sage Trailer Court, where they searched the travel trailer of Shannon White’s ex-boyfriend. White’s friends have told KTW the two had a tumultuous relationship and breakup about a year before she vanished. A resident in the park told KTW the RCMP seized three vehicles from the property. To date, no charges have been laid in connection with White’s disappearance.

KTW FILE PHOTO

speaking to KTW one year later, adding it’s frus trating nothing has come of the police investiga tion to date.

Kamloops Hyundai service manager Megan Storz, who was a friend and work colleague of White’s, said the two would hang out outside of work and have lunch together frequently.

She recalled White telling her at one point she had been leaving her Jeep unlocked as it had been broken into previously and she wanted to avoid would-be thieves cutting her soft-top plastic windows. Storz said this led her to believe someone may have been hiding in White’s vehicle the morning she went missing.

Matthew said White’s disappearance has had an emotional and impact on him, noting he sought counselling.

“It turned my life upside down for about two months,” he said, noting he hasn’t spoken with investigators in nearly a year.

Storz said it’s hard to believe a year has passed: “Sometimes, it feels like she just went missing yesterday, so we’re just all trying to cope,” she said.

IIOB probing city incident

The province’s independent police watch dog is investigating after a distraught man was taken to hospital on Monday (Oct. 24) after police responded to a home in Aberdeen.

Shortly before 4 p.m., Mounties went to a home in the 2000-block of Pacific Way in response to a report that a man was behav ing erratically and in possession of a weapon, according to a release from the Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIOBC).

“Officers attempted to engage with the man for several hours as he continued to move in and out of the residence,” BC RCMP director Dawn Roberts said in the release. According to the BC RCMP, the man at one point “sustained serious injuries from self-inflicted actions.”

“It is reported that the man sustained a seri ous injury that appears to have been self-inflict ed. He was subsequently taken into custody with less lethal intervention and transported to the hospital for treatment,” said the IIOBC.

Authorized

Camping out to help end youth homelessness

A Way Home Kamloops is gearing up for its sixth annual Campout To End Youth Homelessness cam paign.

The 2022 event will take place on Friday, Dec. 9. starting at 6 p.m. at McDonald Park in North Kamloops, as well as virtual ly via Zoom, where campers from any location can join.

A Way Home Kamloops executive director Tangie Genshorek noted this year’s event will be the first in-per son gathering, following two years of pandemic-caused online-only campouts.

The annual fundraiser helps shine a light on youth homelessness in Kamloops as community members spend a night outside in

cardboard boxes in honour of youth who are without a home. Campers are encour aged to raise pledges and donations that fund crucial programs that support homeless youth.

A Way Home Kamloops raised about $100,000 in 2021 from the campout, down from its record-setting $150,000 amount in 2020.

This year’s campout fundraising goal is $150,000 and all proceeds will go to funding wraparound sup ports and programs A Way Home Kamloops will run at the soon-to-be-constructed Katherine’s Place.

Katherine’s Place will be a supportive building with 39 units for youth ages 19 to 26 who are at-risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Katherine’s Place will rise in the 500-block of

Tranquille Road in North Kamloops. Genshorek said site preparation is underway and the foundation may be poured before winter sets in.

Most of Katherine’s Place will be owned by BC Housing. A Way Home Kamloops will operate the building. It will include staff on site around the clock and provide residents with meals, counselling, life skills training and employment and education support.

A Way Home Kamloops will also support residents to access community health services. The organization is looking for sponsors, camp ers and volunteers to help out with the campout.

“The more the merrier,” Genshorek told KTW

For more information, go online to awayhome kamloops.com/campout.

YALE COUNTY BUYERS

The Yale County 4-H Club would like to thank our 2022 buyers. Your continued support of our club and the Provincial Winter Fair is greatly appreciated!

JV Livestock Doug Haughton Rafter MM Cattle Maddie Mills

Jane Mastin

Lynn McLean

Russ Dreger Wools Drywall Robo Transport Kemp Concrete

James Ducell

Jacob Krause & Wools Drywall

Cathy McLeod Dr Perry Vitoratos Sunny Shores Dental

Purity Feed KLAVC

Dr David Rushka Vivid Orthodontics Grandview Acres

A special thank you to the Provincial Winter Fair Committee and volunteers who put together another amazing stock show for all the participants, their families, and guests

KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

THE POPPY CAMPAIGN BEGINS ANEW

Second World War veteran Ted Maskell (centre) poses with Kamloops Legion president Daniel Martin (left) and veteran Lt. Mike Young (retired), marking the start of this year’s poppy campaign. A poppy was also pinned to clothing worn by Kamloops Mayor Ken Christian during Tuesday’s event at the downtown Legion. The poppy campaign will officially begin on Saturday, Oct. 29, with poppies available at stores across Kamloops, including outside most big box stores and coffee shops, including Tim Hortons and Starbucks. The Legion continues to adapt in its fundraising, last year introducing tap-to-donate as an option. That helped Kamloops run the seventh-largest poppy fundraising campaign in Canada in 2021. Younger people are one demographic the Legion has concerned itself with reaching, often sending veterans to schools to talk about the Legion and their own experiences.

SEAN BRADY/KTW

Residents of

Beefed-up security coming to RIH

The provincial government has announced the hiring of security per sonnel for health facilities across B.C., including at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops.

A total of 334 employees — 320 dubbed “in-house protection ser vices officers” and another 14 called “violence prevention leads” — are expected to be hired.

According to the Ministry of Health, the aim is to create safer work places for health-care workers and patients by introducing the new secu rity model across all health authorities. Included in the process is expanded funding for SWITCH BC, a new orga nization focused on addressing work place safety.

The provincial government is giv ing health authorities — including Interior Health — funding to establish what it calls a “relational security model” in 26 health-care settings and hire staff to support it.

The ministry said the new model ensures all security personnel have an acute awareness of patients and their surroundings and know how to anticipate, de-escalate and ultimately prevent aggression.

It is based on trauma-informed practice, which integrates knowledge of how people are affected by trauma into procedures, practices and ser vices to create a safer environment for staff and patients.

All protection services personnel will receive training in workplace vio lence prevention, mental health and advanced customer service. They will also receive trauma-informed prac tice training.

The provincial government is also directing $2 million to SWITCH BC (Safety, Wellbeing, Innovation, Training and Collaboration in Healthcare) to address workplace safety. This is in addition to fund ing of $8.5 million over three years announced in 2019 to establish the organization.

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KAMLOOPS THISWEEK

City

The Piano Men on stage

The Kamloops Symphony Orchestra will perform the music of Billy Joel and Elton John in its upcoming presentation of The Piano Men.

Performances will take place on Friday, Oct. 28, and Saturday, Oct. 29, at Sagebrush Theatre, at Ninth Avenue and Munro Street in Sagebrush.

Showtime is 7:30 p.m.

KSO music director Dina Gilbert said the orchestra is excited to welcome back Jim Witter and his band, which performed with the orchestra in the Simon and Garfunkel tribute Feelin’ Groovy

Witter also came up with the concept for The Piano Men in 2001, featuring hits like Your Song, My Life, Candle in the Wind, Rocket Man and Just the Way You Are.

Tickets for the show are $50 for general admission, $45 for seniors, $10 for those ages 19 and younger and $15 for KSOundcheck members (ages 19 to 34). Find them at the Kamloops Live box office, 250-3745483 and online at kam loopslive.ca.

Community BRIEFS

WHAT A DRAG

A pair of drag events will bring fun and fright to Kamloops on Friday, Oct. 28, and Saturday, Oct. 29.

Canada’s Drag Race sea son 3 runner-up Jada Shada Hudson will headline the events alongside Kelowna favourite Ella Lamoureaux.

The duo will first perform in Fruitcake Halloween at The Night Shift on Fifth, down town at Fifth Avenue and Lansdowne Street, on Friday, Oct. 28, followed by the Drag Brunch on Saturday, Oct. 29, at Match Eatery at Cascades Casino in Aberdeen.

Also performing at Fruitcake Halloween will be Doris in Drag, Hollie Woods, Sophonda Dick and BOSS.

Tickets are $25 for Fruitcake Halloween and $65 for the Drag Brunch event, available online at rebelliousunicorns.com.

GAS LIGHTING Community theatre group The Kamloops Players will debut their next stage play, a drama called Gas Light, in early November.

The drama, set in 1938, tells the story of the Mannighams, a couple living in the Victorian tranquility of London — at least until Bella Mannigham is convinced by a visitor that her husband is, in fact, a murderer.

The play will be directed by Frank Kohlberger, who said he is delighted to be working with a fantastic cast and crew.

Evening performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. from Wednesday, Nov. 9, through Saturday, Nov. 12, with a Nov. 12 matinee at 1:30 p.m. The play will be staged at Pavilion Theatre, 1025 Lorne St. just east of downtown.

Tickets are $32 for adults and $26 for seniors and stu dents and can be purchased online at kamloopslive.ca.

• If you have a community event that needs publicizing, email information to editor@ kamloopsthisweek.com.

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

Pursuant to Sec tions 26(3) and 94 of the Community Char ter, S.B.C. 2003, Ch. 26, the City of K amloops (the “City ”) is disposing of 157.8 m2 of surplus road adjacent to 795 Sher wood Drive, legally described as: Road to be closed shown on Bylaw Plan EPP123300, dedicated on Plan 17081, DL 255, KDYD (the “Proper ty ”).

The City is transferring fee simple title of the Proper ty to Brandon Pittman, Donald Pittman and Carol Pittman, to be consolidated with 795 Sher wood Drive, for consideration in the amount of $57,000.

For more information, please contac t David W Freeman, RI(BC ), Assistant Development, Engineering, and Sustainability Direc tor/Real Estate Manager, at 250-828-3548.

Kamloops.ca/Homes-Business

Parks and Recreation Worker II Job Posting

Logan Lake residents enjoy one of the finest lifestyles in Canada Rich community culture, vibrant businesses and a well managed Municipality provide opportunities for families and individuals to thrive The District of Logan Lake is looking to fill the position of Parks and Recreation Worker II (CUPE Local 900)

Reporting to the Parks and Recreation Lead hand, the Parks and Recreation Worker II is responsible for general maintenance and upkeep of all gardens, parks and parks equipment; Recreation Centre and related facilities, including ice installation and maintenance of the ice plant, janitorial duties, facility maintenance involving basic mechanical, carpentry and plumbing Work will also involve preparation, maintenance, fertilizing and upgrading of all District parks, grounds and gardens; maintenance of irrigation systems and parks equipment; as well as general parks duties as prescribed

Qualifications:

The

mowing grass,

control, parks maintenance equipment, irrigation installation and

and

II equipment such as mowers, trimmers, and light duty trucks.

to work productively with minimal

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for this

is $33 82

please

(2022

website at www loganlake

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Applications will be received by the undersigned until 4:00 pm, October 31, 2022

Mel Bohmer, Director of Public Works and Recreation District of Logan Lake, PO Box 190, Logan Lake, BC V0K 1W0 Fax: 250 523 6678 mbohmer@loganlake ca

While we thank all applicants in advance for their interest, only those considered for an interview will be contacted

The District of Logan Lake is committed to employment equity We welcome diversity and encourage applications from all qualified individuals

Employment focus of Down Syndrome Week

DAVE RALPH SPECIAL TO KTW

Down Syndrome Week in Canada runs from Oct. 24 to Oct. 29. It is a week to show that Canada is where all people are valued and are fully participating citi zens. It is our week to cel ebrate people with Down Syndrome (DS) and con sider their contributions to our community.

This year, we are cel ebrating and showcasing the abilities of people with DS and highlighting employment stories and projects.

Having a job to go to is a big part of inclusion in communities, It also gives people a sense of worth and contribution.

People with DS lead full lives. They go to school, work in the community, make their own decisions and contribute to society.

Support from their families and community, good health care and qual ity educational experiences all help individuals lead fulfilling lives.

In this article, we are highlighting Shinji. He and his family are members of the Thompson Nicola Ups and Downs Society (TNUDS).

Shinji is 19 and enrolled in his second year in the TRU education and skills training program (ESTR). ESTR provides knowledge about future employment opportunities and training in specific areas for people who experience barriers to employment.

During the full-time

Shinji and his family are members of the Thompson Nicola Ups and Downs Society.

nine-month program, students divide their time between classes, labs and work placements.

Shinji’s first year at TRU concentrated on careers, which provided him with certification for basic firstaid, WHIMS, forklift and other workplace certifi cates.

As a result of his acquired qualifications from ESTR, Shinji applied to the City of Kamloops for an assistant labour posi tion.

After a successful inter view, he was hired to work on a grounds and mainte nance team at McArthur Island Park this past sum mer. From June 1 to Sept. 2, Shinji worked full-time on a team responsible for maintaining the sports fields, Norbrock Stadium, disc golf course and other facilities.

As a Special Olympian in softball, he enjoyed working on the fields on which he plays.

“My favourite part

of the job was on new employee orientation day — me and my team spent the day on a bus seeing all the city parks, Mission Flats sewage-treatment facility and the water-treat ment plant,” Shinji said.

He will be studying retail while attending his next two semesters at TRU.

While attending univer sity, Shinji works part-time at a local grocery store. His responsibilities are retriev ing and organizing all grocery carts and baskets, cleaning all carts and bas kets, general store cleaning and stocking shelves.

A very motivated young man, Shinji is eager to be part of the employed sec tor, Prior to working at the grocery store, he worked with the graffiti task force, as a farm worker and as a custodian.

Employing people with DS, or another ability, is not just about doing good, it’s good for businesses.

They are part of an untapped labour pool of qualified and skilled work ers.

People with Down Syndrome are capable and motivated and are known to have high employ ment retention rates. They are very diligent in their responsibilities and have a pleasant and happy demeanour that will boost morale and company cul ture.

For more information, check out the Thompson Nicola Ups and Downs Society Facebook page or send an email to dsralph@ telus.net.

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Dig It: Ashes to ashes through time

MATT BEGG, ALYSHA EDWARDS SPECIAL TO KTW

column in May, we discussed prehistoric use of the upper Bridge River by St’át’imc peoples and the volcanic eruption of Mount Meager that covered the valley in blankets of Bridge River Ash approximately 2,400 years ago.

As described in the last col umn, scatters of stone artifacts are abundant along the Downton Reservoir in the upper Bridge River Valley. However, the sites are out of context, making it difficult to dis tinguish between sites used before and after the Mount Meager erup tion. While habitation sites (such as the Bridge River village) are absent in the middle and upper Bridge River Valley archaeological record, diagnostic tools and lithic scatters provide indicators on how and when this resource rich landscape was used and occupied.

A short distance downstream from the Downton Reservoir is the Carpenter Reservoir, stretching from near the town of Goldbridge to approximately 47 kilometres downstream to the Terzaghi Dam. Similar to the Downton Reservoir, Carpenter Reservoir is covered by Bridge River volcanic ash, though the ash deposits are not as thick as the deposits observed farther upstream.

Archaeological surveys over the last few years by St’át’imc Government Services (SGS) have

found frequent scatters of stone artifacts along both banks of the reservoir. Volcanic ash layers can be useful for archaeologists, as archaeological sites occurring below ash layers can be confidently determined to be older than the eruption, while those above the ash layer are more recent. The chang ing environment of reservoirs make this impossible, as the ash tends to move up and down in the water column and collect on low-lying lands at high pool.

Unlike sites we described at the Downton Reservoir, several archaeological sites found during surveys of the Carpenter Reservoir included temporally diagnostic artifacts. The method of relative dating stone tools has been dis cussed in previous Dig It columns, but as a refresher, based on stylistic attributes, certain tools and points can be associated with specific dates as “horizon markers” by comparing them to other projectile points found in dateable contexts

(like systematic investigations with secure carbon dates).

So far, dateable artifacts found along the Carpenter Reservoir can be assigned to time periods between 3,500 and 200 years before present.

At one archaeological site that is densely packed with stone artifacts, projectile points from the Shuswap Horizon (3,500-2,400), the Plateau Horizon (2,400-1,200) and the Kamloops Horizon (1,200200) were found scattered on the surface amidst drifts of volcanic ash. At another site a bit further downstream in the reservoir, six diagnostic projectile points were identified that span the same time periods, and a third site includes points from 3,500-1,200 years before present.

Projectile point styles don’t change overnight, and while we can’t be certain of how long after the Mount Meager eruption it took for people to return to the middle Bridge River, it’s clear that

particular locations were well used before and after the eruption. Due to the exposed nature of the reservoir, secure carbon-dating samples would be difficult to find. Future investigations will hope fully discover archaeological sites in undisturbed contexts outside of the exposed reservoir, where we can determine depths of artifacts relative to the volcanic ash (bur ied below the ash means older, whereas above the ash means more recent) or collect secure dat ing samples.

Archaeological sites can rep resent a single-use occupation, or repeated and continual use of a landscape over time. Based on the artifacts found in the upper and middle Bridge River Valley, it’s clear this landscape was subject to con tinual use by St’át’imc for millennia.

As we encounter our own mod ern catastrophic climate events, it’s useful to remember that humans have survived past devastating events and thrived, but they did so out of necessity, whereas we have choices.

Alysha Edwards is a St’át’imc archaeologist and graduate student at the University of Montana. Matt Begg is an archaeologist based in Kamloops. Interested in more? Go online to republicofarchaeology.ca.

The view upstream in the Carpenter Reservoir, near Lillooet.

MATT BEGG PHOTO

Taking a raw journey through Vietnam

LAUREN KRAMER SPECIAL TO KTW travelwriterstales.com

You know it’s polished when local vendors greet you enthusi astically and make a concerted effort to communicate, when your tourism experiences are trash-free and when you can cross a road with out fearing for your life.

Vietnam is not one of those places. Real life hits you in the face here — forcing you to acknowl edge the deep divide between First World and Third World living and the still-raw history of war and colonialism on the physical and cultural landscape.

In Hanoi, we hired scooter drivers to guide us through the city, too terrified by the haphazard traffic to drive ourselves.

At one stop, our guide pointed out the remains of an American war plane, shot down during the Vietnam War some 50 years ago. It crashed into a lake downtown and remains there to this day, a massive hunk of machinery rust ing away.

We passed street vendors sell ing the meat of butchered dogs, their mouths open in a grotesque grimace.

Later, as we moved north to south through the country and wandered in the night markets, we saw Gucci knockoffs for sale next to vendors selling barbecued frogs, doves, fried crickets, fat silkworms and an eye-openingly selection of spiny shellfish.

“Here in Vietnam, we eat anything that moves,” one of our guides declared with a laugh.

Another was more serious on the subject of food.

“During the famine of 1945, up to two-million of our people starved to death,” he reflected. “So, though it might turn your stom ach to see dogs, frogs, birds and insects for sale as food, remember, everything has a story. Google cannot explain it all.”

I could write about Vietnam’s gorgeous resort destinations and the warmth of the South China Sea as we floated in the gentle waves. We experienced this, too, and loved it.

Tourism is growing in the

country and large hotel chains like Marriott and Intercontinental are colonizing beachside real estate, attracting increasing numbers of visitors. But as you bask in the waves, it’s hard to ignore the trash floating in from the mainland.

The island of Phu Quoc is an hour’s flight from Saigon, home to nine-million people.

With an unrefined trashmanagement system, the quanti ties of plastic washing up on the beach is disheartening. Our hotel employed three locals who worked the beach from dawn to dusk daily, collecting and disposing of

the never-ending stream of trash.

“You owe it to the Vietnamese people to visit the War Remnant Museum,” my cousin stated flatly before we left for our trip.

In Saigon, we joined the throngs of visitors ambling through graphic exhibits of what the Vietnamese refer to as the Resistance War Against America.

For sure, the accompanying text, written by the Communist Party, is one-sided, but the visuals were at once riveting, shocking and devastating.

We saw pictures of rice pad dies bombed to smithereens,

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Vietnamese farmers being tor tured and dead, bloody bodies lit tering the roadside.

The Agent Orange display was even more horrific, with visuals of the physical deformation caused by toxins sprayed on the land in the name of American warfare.

Cleanup of those poisons is still in progress today, as is the suffer ing caused by the chemical.

One guide described her aunt, a woman in her 50s with the mind of a child, unable to work, marry or live a productive life because of harm caused by chemical.

I had come to the country thinking America’s efforts to fight communism in Vietnam were noble. My visit to the museum changed my mind completely.

If you’re looking for an allinclusive-resort style vacation dur ing which you can turn your brain off, this country is not for you.

But if you can open your mind to another culture without conde scension and, through your trav els, try to understand the forces that shaped Vietnam to what it is today, you’ll find it a riveting expe rience.

Yes, you’ll see some pristine beaches, tropical jungles and bigname hotels sporting gorgeous turquoise swimming pools.

You will also see a country still wracked with scars from the past, trying hard to deal with its history of oppression, while actively rein venting itself to keep pace with the rest of the world.

Travel Writers’ Tales is an independent travel article syndicate. For more information, go online to travelwriterstales.com.

Photo:

In a lake in downtown Hanoi are the remains of an American war plane, shot down during the Vietnam War some 50 years ago. It remains there to this day, a massive hunk of machinery rusting away and a reminder of the conflict the Vietnamese refer to as the Resistance War Against America.

LAUREN KRAMER PHOTO

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ANDREW SNUCINS/TRU WOLFPACK

WolfPack mobbed after penalty heroics

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

post-season matchup, a scoreline that held after 30 minutes and change of extra-time action.

knows how to play it well.”

Ahowling

wolf, Ainsley Grether bellowed into the frigid Kamloops night. The Kamloopsian turned Hulk Hogan during the celebration that followed her 88th-minute penalty strike, yelling while run ning toward screaming fans in her hometown before lifting hand to ear, beckoning for more noise from the Hillside Stadium Packamaniacs.

Grether’s emphatic, nodoubter from the spot on Saturday saved the season and pushed her TRU WolfPack into a 1-1 tie with the Victoria Vikes in the Canada West women’s soccer

Caylah Lemon, Hawan Abdissa, Madeline Trozzo and Lydia Keating converted in the penalty shootout and goalkeeper Marissa Young made two saves to give TRU a 2-1 victory — the WolfPack women’s soccer pro gram’s first-ever U Sports postseason win.

Boisterous fans, some imbib ing and encouraging the Victoria bus driver to start the engine while the visiting club’s fourth penalty taker ambled to the spot, rushed the field and mobbed the players, a few of whom escaped in time for interviews.

“I’d die for her,” Grether (who was featured earlier this month in Kamloops Last Week) said of Young. “I’d die for that girl. She knows how to play soccer. She

Added Young: “Ainsley’s been clutch. She’s always clutch. It feels amazing. Everyone is buzz ing right now.”

The No. 1 seed in the Prairie Division, the Mount Royal Cougars (10-3-1), will play host to the WolfPack (6-6-2) in a quarter-final showdown on Saturday in Calgary. Game time is noon.

Victoria controlled the first half on Saturday and was rewarded in the 37th minute when Rheana Desjardins’ leftfoot curler evaded a diving Young, the WolfPack goalkeeper whose point-blank stop on Erin Jensen in the 27th minute was among match highlights.

Emily Clark, the WolfPack’s leading scorer in the regular season, was the main avenue for the home team’s attack through

out the first half, but TRU relied too heavily on the long ball and Victoria goalkeeper Kayley Lidstone was rarely tested.

The Vikes were content to sit back and defend in the second half and the strategy brought them to within a few minutes of securing an impressive road vic tory, the type coaches game plan for — get ahead early, play sound defensively, dig in and hang on.

But they couldn’t keep a grip on the lead.

TRU seemed buoyed by the increased number of offensive opportunities in the second half, attacking in waves and earn ing its reward when Bridget Baird was taken down inside the 18-yard box.

Grether’s left-foot howitzer whistled through the cold air and tested the netting’s consistency, but this old onion bag was much

better threaded than one of Hogan’s old muscle shirts.

“For some reason, I just had a feeling it was going to happen,” Grether said of her penalty-kick opportunity. “When the moment came, that spot was picked. I shot it 150 times this week. I was ready for it.

“You’ve got to do it for the girls. Pressure’s on. When you get older, situations like that are what it’s all about. I just knew I had to do it. I just did it.”

Wolfpack head coach Mark Pennington, when asked about Grether’s mettle: “Absolutely clutch.”

The proverbial leg drop seemed to vacate the Vikes of vigour, their resolve broken when the bend-but-not-break plan snapped.

Goalkeeper Marissa Young was rushed by TRU WolfPack teammates and fans after making two saves to help her club emerge victorious from a penalty shootout against the Victoria Vikes on Saturday at Hillside Stadium.

Dinos coming to Den for post-season clash

Baird and Anika Black were among WolfPack shooters thwarted by Lidstone during the extra-time halves, both of which featured a spirited home team pressuring a deflated Victoria group.

Prior to Saturday, the WolfPack women’s soccer team was 0-1 in U Sports post-season play, a 6-1 loss to the UBC Thunderbirds in Vancouver in 2015.

The WolfPack, who broke their Canada West post-season goose egg in the first home playoff match in program history, will say their prayers, eat their vitamins

and Hulk up in time for a road trip to Cowtown.

“The girls worked their butt off and it’s another example of our character,” Pennington said. “I couldn’t be more proud of them.

“We move on to Mount Royal next week and I don’t think anybody is going to want to play against us.”

DUEL IN THE DEN

As host team for the U Sports Men’s Soccer Championship, the TRU WolfPack have a free pass to compete in the event, which will run from Nov. 10 to Nov. 13 at Hillside Stadium.

The club would rather prove it

belongs by winning the Canada West title and can take one step toward that goal with a victory over the Calgary Dinos in a con ference quarter-final tilt on home turf.

Match time is 7 p.m. on Friday at Hillside Stadium.

TRU (7-3-5) played to a pair scoreless draws last weekend to wrap the regular season, nil-nil affairs against the Vikes (3-8-5) on Friday in Victoria and the T-Birds (9-3-3) on Saturday in Vancouver.

The WolfPack placed second in the Pacific Division to land a first-round post-season matchup against the Dinos (6-5-3), the No. 3 seed from the Prairie Division.

Calgary blanked TRU 1-0 on Sept. 23 in Kamloops in the teams’ only meeting of the sea son.

In other quarter-final action this weekend, Pacific No. 1 UBC will host Prairie No. 4 Saskatchewan (3-7-4) in Vancouver, Prairie No. 2 Alberta (5-2-7) will host Pacific No. 3 UNBC (8-5-3) of Prince George in Edmonton and Prairie No. 1 Mount Royal (8-0-6) will host Pacific No. 4 Fraser Valley 7-6-2) of Abbotsford in Calgary.

The highest remaining seed from the Pacific Division will host the Final Four tournament from Nov. 4 to Nov. 6.

Marco Favaro and the TRU WolfPack will play host to the Calgary Dinos on Friday at Hillside Stadium.

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

NorthPaws hire coach

Brian Anderson is the new head coach of the Kamloops NorthPaws, according to a club press release published on Monday.

The 40-year-old Tuscon, Ariz., product won a World Series title in 2005 in his rookie season with the Chicago White Sox.

He played in the minor leagues with his NorthPaws’ predecessor, Cole Armstrong, who was the Kamloops club’s first head coach and guided the team to the playoffs in its inau gural West Coast League season in 2022.

“Cole and I share the same approach of really stressing player develop ment,” Anderson said in the press release.

“In order for them to not get burnt out, I think you have to create an environ ment where they want to show up to the ballpark every day.”

Anderson, a centre fielder drafted by Chicago in Round 1 (15th overall) of the 2003 MLB Draft, played in 355 MLB games over five seasons with the White Sox

World Series champion Brian Anderson will lead the Kamloops NorthPaws into the 2023 West Coast League baseball campaign.

and Boston Red Sox.

He switched positions and pitched in the minor leagues for the Kansas City Royals and New York Yankees’ organizations.

“I can tell you this much — I failed at the highest level more times than I was successful, so one approach I used last year and contin ue to use this year is I don’t tell my players that they have to do things a certain way, but I do tell them the things that don’t work,” said Anderson, who is the assis tant coach and recruiting co-ordinator for his home town Pima Community College.

“I tell them my job is to protect them from doing things over and over that I know aren’t conducive to become a great player.”

Last season, Anderson was the first-base coach for the University of Arizona Wildcats, the same program for which he toiled for three seasons, during which he set a hit-streak record and earned All-American hon ours.

Anderson will be in charge of recruiting the 2023 NorthPaws’ roster, with a focus on bringing in strong pitchers and versa tile players with good char acters traits.

SPECIAL OLYMPIANS CHALLENGE BLAZERS

The Kamloops Blazers will square off against Special Olympics Kamloops in floor hockey action on Tuesday, Nov. 15, at Brock Middle School.

Organizers are aiming to draw a crowd for the game, which is slated to run from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Entry is by donation.

MO BILE PATRO LS GU ARD SE RVIC E AL ARM RESPONS E

Ronik Security Ltd. has been serving Kamloops since 1972 and is 100% Canadian. We wish to thank our current and future loyal customers during this pandemic season! Our employees are proud to serve for your safety and security.

ACHI, DAVID

Choking Assault (X2). Possession of

Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose Assault with a Weapon Utter

YOUNG, KATHRYN

MIKE CHRISTY PHOTO

Clouston: Target on Blazers, who must play together

MARTY HASTINGS STAFF REPORTER sports@kamloopsthisweek.com

One month into the WHL season, the Kamloops Blazers are receiving a wake-up call from head coach and general manager Shaun Clouston.

“Maybe there was the miscon ception that, ‘I’m a year older, we’re a year older, our core group is a year older — we’re just going to continue winning,’” Clouston told KTW on Monday (Oct. 24), a day after his club lost its third game in three days.

“That’s just not how it works. There is a price to pay every single night to earn the victory.”

Kamloops dropped a pair of home games — falling 5-3 to the Winnipeg Ice (11-1-0-0) on Friday and losing 4-3 in overtime to the Prince George Cougars (5-5-0-0) on Saturday — and capped the weekend with a 6-3 loss to the Vancouver Giants (3-5-1-2) on Sunday in Langley.

The loss to the Giants, Clouston noted, included a pre

dominantly disappointing effort by the Blazers.

Clouston did, however, high light encouraging takeaways from the defeats, including his team’s resiliency when playing from behind and execution while pos sessing the puck, but the overall performance review was not glowing.

“It’s the first bit of adversity, challenge, where with some of those things — a little younger back end, a little more inexperi enced goaltending, a little bit of depth — there was a little bit of exposure this weekend,” Clouston said. “As a group, the veteran group, we can handle that better.

“Maybe some individuals and maybe as a core group, we haven’t accepted that fact — that it’s actu ally going to be harder.”

The club is playing host to

the 2023 Memorial Cup tourna ment and has a target on its back, Clouston said.

“I think it’s just a fact,” he said. “It’s a fact that we’ve won division titles and had teams’ numbers for a while, and teams are really, really enjoying beating us. It’s a big game for them and a huge vic tory.”

Kamloops played catch up for most of the weekend, carrying a lead for only one minute and seven seconds of the game against Prince George, an advantage it surrendered at 19:19 of the third period in the OT defeat.

“Sometimes, when it’s not going great and you’re chas ing, you try to do too much and then it gets a little bit individual,” Clouston said. “We’ve got some guys on the team that think, ‘I’m going to make a difference.’ We got away, at times, especially in the Vancouver game, from the identity pieces and the structure and how we play that makes us effective.”

Clouston said structure,

togetherness and discipline have been staples of the club in recent seasons, but have been sporadic features in recent games, with untimely breakdowns proving costly.

“We’ve got to simplify, not complicate,” Clouston said. “We’ve really got to work together, defend together, share the puck and make sure we don’t take a couple steps forward and then just give up an easy one the other direction. All that hard work …

“With the puck, I thought we were pretty darn good. Without the puck, I thought we didn’t do a very good job. Goaltenders weren’t great, but can’t pin it all on them because of the quality of chances we were giving up.”

The Blazers (5-3-1-1) are fourth in Western Conference standings and hold a two-point lead on the Cougars atop the B.C. Division.

Clouston was asked about ros ter evaluation, now 10 games into the campaign, a handful of those featuring most of the team’s top

First

players, six of whom came trick ling in from NHL organizations over the last month.

“I think there’s a fairly good read of where we have strengths and potentially where we’re a little bit vulnerable,” Clouston said. He said it is first up to coaches to get players back on track, with the Blazers slated to host the Chiefs (3-6-0-0) on Friday, Oct. 28, and Spokane scheduled to host the rematch the next night.

“You have to play 60 minutes in all three zones,” Clouston said. “You have to play as a unit. In general, for three-plus years, we’ve been really good at those things. Sometimes, we forget that. Sometimes, we think that our suc cess is a result of our skill level, our talent level, and forget how hard we played and the amount of structure we played with, how strong the team game was that actually was a really big part of our success. We have to acknowl edge that. We have to believe that is the biggest part of the solution to get back on track.”

Illia Tkachenko of LaRoche Gung Fu and Kickboxing claimed gold in his division at the Western Canadian Martial Arts Championships last weekend in Burnaby.

LaRoche fighter wins the West

A pair of LaRoche World Gung Fu and Kickboxing fight ers were in action at the Western Canadian Martial Arts Championships last weekend in Burnaby.

Illia Tkachenko, 16, earned unanimousdecision victories

in three matches to claim gold in the advanced 15- to 17-year-old, 145-pounds-andunder division.

Kai Robidoux, a 21-year-old fighter who stands 6-foot4 and weighs 225 pounds, was com peting for the first time and posted a 1-1 record.

BLADES FARE WELL

Several Kamloops Long Blades were in speed-skating action on the weekend at events in Canada and the Netherlands.

Sylvie Lloyd finished third in the 500-metre and fifth in the 3,000m at the Kannermercup 3 Long Track competition in Haarlem, Netherlands.

Meanwhile, in Alberta, Caleb Van der Merwe had one first-place result and two second-place finishes at a competition in Medicine Hat.

Closer to home, Patrick Gu placed sec ond in the 500m, third in the 1,000m and first in the 1,500m at the Langley Blades Interclub Meet. He recorded three personalbest times.

BOBCATS BUMPED

ALLEN DOUGLAS/KTW

Brooklyn Olfert and the TRU WolfPack women’s volleyball team posted two victories over the Brandon Bobcats last weekend at the Tournament Capital Centre. In men’s action, the Pack earned a split with the Bobcats. For more on the matches, go online to kamloopsthisweek.com.

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Bachelor

Juniper

RISE TO THE CHALLENGE

FUN BY THE NUMBERS

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Ramp, 2 Slot Machines, Plus Much More!!!

School District No 83 (Nor th Okanagan Shuswap) invites qualified individuals to apply for our Temporar y Computer Network Technician position The rate of pay is $34 18 per hour, 40 hour per week

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• Completion of Grade 12 and two year diploma in Computer Technology.

• Two year demonstrated experience in network design, implementation, and management skills to suppor t a variety of computer operating systems, including Windows and Linux operating systems.

• Demonstrated knowledge/skill to install, configure and maintain common network infrastructure, computer hardware and Windows and Linux operating systems

Fur ther details on required qualifications with duties and responsibilities, please visit Make a Future at www makeafuture ca

Applications will only be accepted through Make a Future

We appreciate the interest of all applicants, but only those selected for interviews will be contacted

School District No. 73 (Kamloops-Thompson) School Bus Drivers

School District No. 73 (Kamloops-Thompson) is currently accepting applications for School Bus Drivers for Barriere, Clearwater, Kamloops and Chase.

Successful applicants must possess a valid Class 2 Drivers license with an Air endorsement and have three years proven previous driving experience. Applicants must be able to successfully complete the School District’s pretrip evaluation and road test.

Those individuals who have submitted an application in the last six (6) months will be considered and need not reapply

Applications should include, but are not limited to, the following information: • Work history

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If you have the above qualifications, please submit your written application to makeafuture.ca/Kamloops-thompson or to:

Sherry Kristjanson, Director of Transportation School District No. 73 (Kamloops-Thompson)

710 McGill Road Kamloops BC V2C 0A2

E-mail to skristjanson@sd73.bc.ca

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

In Loving Memory of Mario Guzzi

Memories do not fade, they just grow deep

For the husband I loved but could not keep I hold my tears when I speak your name.

But the ache in my heart remains the same. I laugh, I smile, I play my part Behind it all lies a broken heart

Unseen, unheard, you are always near So loved, so missed, so dear

Just as you were, you will always be Forever treasured in my memory

In Loving Memory of David Morley “Mo” Aboussafy

April 06, 1940 October 25, 2016

An Irish Blessing

My wish for you Joy is:

That you might be brave in times of trial, when others lay crosses on your shoulders, When mountains must be climbed and chasms are to be crossed, when hope scarce can shine through. That every gift God gave you might grow along with you, and let you give the gift of joy to all who care for you

That you might always have a friend who is worth that name, whom you can trust, and who helps you in times of sadness, who will defy the storms of daily life at your side.

One more wish I have for you: That in every hour of joy or pain, you may feel God close to you This is my wish for you and those you carry in your heart This is my hope for you, now and forever

Thank you for saving this beautiful blessing for me Mo. Your Irish Rose, Joy (Callaghan) Aboussafy

Rusty Thompson

You left without warning. Gone so fast still making me laugh because your stories live on

In Loving Memory of Miss You Rusty Love Rob

Untilwe meetagain Your wife Phyllis daughters Tona, Kathy andfamilies

In Memoriams

Molly Clovechok 1924 - 2022

Molly closed her beautiful blue eyes on October 19, 2022 at the age of 98 years, with family by her side. She was born on October 8, 1924 in Lower Broughshane, N. Ireland to David and Annie Smith. At the age of 3 months, she departed Ireland on an ocean vessel with her mom, aunt, and 15 month old sister, Lil, to join her dad and settle in Vancouver From her Irish roots, a very warm heart and generous nature grew She had a vibrant smile and friendly greeting for all wherever she went, during her long life.

Molly was predeceased by many family members, including her beloved husband of 70 years, Andy, and her two special sisters, Lil and Doreen. She is survived by her 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren: Don (Eileen), Kelsey, Eleanor; Jane (Jerry), Brandon, Celina and Maya; Deanna (Kent), Hudson, Jenna and Tanner; Dion (Tina), Levi and Nora; Terry (Jan), Natalia, Emily (Michael), Clare.

During her teen years, Molly enjoyed an active social life and spent many weekends dancing. She loved to jitterbug, often winning the top prize of $5.00, which she often spent shopping for a new outfit. It was at a dance in 1945 that she met a quiet, soft spoken Vancouver Canuck who was responsible for her becoming a lifelong hockey fan and sports enthusiast. In 1947 Molly and Andy were married, with hockey taking them to Edmonton for the next 3 years. In 1950, they moved to Kamloops, which remained home for Molly for 72 years.

For a big city girl, Molly quickly grew to love Kamloops, and Kamloops loved her back. She was an outstanding volunteer at schools, the Salvation Army, Ladies Auxiliary to R.I.H., Kamloops Minor Hockey, K.I.B.I.H.T., and the Kamloops Blazers. She worked tirelessly in the 1980’s on the committee to bring a multipurpose complex to Kamloops, and again in the early 1990’s to see the opening of the Riverside Coliseum. She was a colorful fan at so many sporting events spanning seven decades, often ringing her cowbell loud and proud, while watching her Blazers and many of her grandchildren’s games.

Molly’s passion for shopping qualified her as a champion. While she took great pride in her own wardrobe, it was the love for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren that took her out daily, and sometimes twice a day to hunt for the best bargains. Special times were spent walking many miles in the malls with her grandchildren and around the mini golf course, some days playing 36 holes. She loved everything Christmas, and those extended hours often took her out for a third round of shopping in the evening, and she loved every minute of it. Her friendly nature with staff earned her many perks in the stores, especially in the children’s dept, where she received an early heads up on upcoming clearance specials, and access to her own hold rack. The amazing bargains she took home for her family brought her so much joy

Molly was blessed to be surrounded by an outstanding group of caring workers during her decline. Thank you to the staff at Berwick for taking on her care during the challenges of the early stages of the pandemic. To Dr Wynne and all the support staff at KSV who have worn angel wings during the past 2 years, thank you.

One of Molly’s favorite times of day was Happy Hour, enjoying a glass of wine and for Andy, a beer Tipping your next glass in her memory would surely bring her one last smile.

A private family Memorial for Molly will take place in Calgary

Condolences may be sent to: www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

Wayne Arthur Schleppe

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne Arthur Schleppe on October 14th, 2022 at the age of 73. Wayne passed away peacefully after complications from a hard fought battle with cancer He passed away in Kelowna General Hospital ICU with his wife Shirley holding his hand and his loved ones by his side.

Wayne was born in Gladstone, Manitoba March 10th, 1949. His family moved to B.C. when he was 6 months old. He attended school in Burnaby and in Surrey, BC. Wayne went to Vancouver Vocational School where he completed a Drafting course. He worked for numerous companies over the years and finally at the age of 65 he retired from Progressive Rubber Industries where he was General Manager

He leaves behind his loving wife Shirley of 52 years and his son and his buddy, Jason (Erin). He also leaves behind his loving brother David whom he shared many interests with, his two beautiful grandchildren Ronin and Brooklyn and his little dog, Emma. He will also be sadly missed by his brother-inlaw Rick (Tracy) whom he was very close to, two wonderful nieces, Jennifer (Denny), Katie (T), and their beautiful children, Maycie, Pyper, Carter and his sister-in-law Connie.

Wayne was a quiet and very private man and did not complain once throughout his illness. His family will certainly miss his sense of humour, his love, and his appreciation for the outdoors. Wayne loved the Shuswap Lake where he and his family spent many weekends boating, playing on the water, waterskiing, fishing and soaking up the sunshine. Wayne and Shirley also immensely enjoyed their motorhome later in life. Wayne loved to travel and especially loved his Costa Rica Trip and all the many places he and Shirley travelled to.

As per Wayne’s wishes, there will not be a Funeral Service. A small family get-together will take place next spring. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to a charity of your choice.

Forever In Our Hearts - It’ll Do…Until we meet again!

Condolence messages can be sent to DrakeCremation.com

Sharon Basso

The Basso and Holborn families are sad to announce the passing of Sharon Basso on October 8, 2022.

Sharon is the wife of Armando Basso, who was the love of her life. The two were inseparable and were a perfect match for each other She was a humble and kind person who always did her best to look at the positive side of things. Although she had several health challenges throughout her life of 73 years, she never complained and was always determined to do the best that she could.

Many family members and friends will sincerely miss Sharon.

A private celebration of life will take place soon.

We would like to thank the ICU Team that cared for Sharon so well. We have immense gratitude for all you did for her

In lieu of any flowers, please consider giving a donation to the Kamloops SPCA in Sharon’s memory She would love that.

the Sunshine

Dispel the Clouds of despair

Lynn Patricia Webster March 5th, 1947 - October 11th, 2022

Lynn passed away peacefully on the 11th of October, 2022 at the Kamloops Hospice and went forward to the great adventure! Bon Voyage !

Lynn was predeceased by her parents, Herb and Win Gray and her birth mother Ev Boissonneault.

Lynn leaves to mourn her loving husband, Bob Webster her children Ray (Tracey) Webster, Pat Webster, Cindy Nelson, Steve (Jenelle) Steele, Sean Steele and Sean Steele (Jr).

Lynn loved and was devoted to her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, Jordan, Mikayla, Randy, Kirkland, Brenden, Dayvi, Seanna, Levi and Kaitlynn and her great-grandchildren Kailee and Adia.

Lynn was fortunate to have found her birth family and they mourn her now as well. Marcia Holton (Norm), Jim Boissonneault (Marilyn), Janice Cook (Jim), Dale Boissonneault, Gerry Boissonneault and Jeff Boissonneault.

Lynn grew up in Vernon, then moved to Alberta for 5 years and back to BC in 1972 Lynn was always an advocate for children and as a consequence, spent many years working with them in her own childcare centers in Surrey She continued working with children who had special needs in the Kamloops School district, retiring in 1999.

Lynn was a big part of her grandchildren's lives as they were growing up and enjoyed them immensely She loved all animals and especially dogs. Lynn was an active square dancer and she also enjoyed collecting miniatures, gardening and travel. Bob and Lynn spent many winter months in Arizona where they enjoyed the warmer weather and square dancing.

Lynn's family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Dr's and nurses at Royal Inland Hospital, Trinity Hospice and at The Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, Lynn's wish was for any donations to be made to the SPCA.

OTHERS WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE

Others who have gone before Hold up my trembling hand.

They comfort me in the blind despair I cannot understand.

They suffer with me when I hurt, Weep with me in my pain, Remind me that we are not lost ... Though I must now remain.

Those who’ve gone before me, Hear me when I cry.

Sing softly with me soothing chords

Of unsung lullabies.

Mourn anniversaries never marked, A future I cannot keep.

They gently kiss the pain away, And love my heart to sleep.

The ones who’ve gone before me

Hold me in my dreams.

They gently stroke my furrowed brow, And calm my silent screams. They love me in my heartache, Wait quietly nearby., Hold patiently, one to another Till I join them by and by.

By Joanetta Hendel, Indianapolis, Indiana

Never Quit

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,

When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill

When funds are low and debts are high

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.

Success is failure turned inside out –

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems so far, So, stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit –

It’s when things seem worst that You must not quit!

Elizabeth (Beth) Ella Sellars

Each Loss

Each loss is very different, The pain is so severe. Will I ever stop missing This one I loved so dear?

Good times we had together, The moments that we shared We didn’t have to tell each other How much we really cared.

I never dreamed you’d go away, Never thought of sorrow. So sure you’d always be here Took for granted each tomorrow.

Now my life is all confused Since you went away. You took a part of me And for help I daily pray.

But when God sent you to me He never said that you were mine, That I could keep you always –Only borrowed for a time.

Now, He’s called you home, I’m sad and I shed tears.

Yet I’m glad He loaned you to me And we had these many years.

Elizabeth (Beth) Ella Sellars nee Lockyer passed away on October 5, 2022, in Kamloops, BC.

Beth’s family would like to express their appreciation for the wonderful care and love she received from the staff at the Pine Grove Seniors Community

Beth is survived by her three children Chad, Carl and Lauren; her grandchildren Sapphire (James), Chelan and Sylvia; her great-grandson - the apple of her eye - Aválo; and her brother David Toll. Beth also leaves behind many dear friends and extended family in both BC and Ontario. Beth loved to laugh, she was a good friend to many and she found fulfillment in creating art in many mediums. She will be missed by all.

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

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Father, Glen Bowler who passed away on October 17th, 2022, at the age of 93 He loved hockey, curling and baseball, as well as volunteering for the Kamloops Blazers and the Salvation Army, ringing the bells during the Christmas season! He lived a long and fulfilling life!

He was the youngest of seven children and he himself had a family of Eight. He leaves behind three children, eleven grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren. As well as many nieces and nephews and friends.

He is predeceased by his first wife (Doreen) as well as five of his children, Glenna, Debra Gaye, Greg, Guy, and Garvin. He was also predeceased by his amazing and loving friend who kept him in line for 35 years, Doris.

As per my Dad’s wishes there will be no services. If you like you can donate to the Alzheimer ’s Society in lieu of flowers.

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

Glen Bowler

Annie Marie Colette Findlay May 6, 1930 - October 13, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our truly loved mother and grandmother Annie Findlay on October 13, 2022. She passed away peacefully at Ridgeview Lodge at the age of 92 on her terms with loving family members at her side.

Annie is predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Ian as well as her parents; her brother, Jean-Claude; her sister, Monique; and her dear granddaughter, Hannah.

Annie will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by her children Cathie (Alex), Peter (Debbie), Anne-Marie (Bill), Andrew (Lisa) and grandchildren Marie-Claire, Alastair, Gabriel, Robin, Zola, and Sabine, and sister Francine as well as many relatives in France.

Annie was born in Gisors, France. After losing her father and home during the 2nd World War, she moved to Montreal with her mother and sister, Francine, where she studied Nursing at St. Mary's Hospital. Before returning to France, they traveled across Canada to Victoria, then to Smithers, BC where she worked as a Nurse and met her future husband, Ian, who was there working as a Doctor They fell in love and soon after they married in France and continued their adventure working at a Missionary Hospital in Malawi, Africa for 2.5 years, where Ian served as Physician. Their first child Cathie was born during this time in Africa. These early adventures spawned a lifelong love of travel and curiosity about other cultures and people. After a visit to Ian’s hometown of Cullen, Scotland where Peter was born, they decided to return to Canada where they soon settled in Kamloops where AnneMarie and Andrew were born. From their home in Kamloops, Ian and Annie enjoyed a loving, respectful, and adventurous marriage, with frequent trips to the family cabin at Shuswap Lake and the mountains, the rivers and ocean waters of BC, as well as travels in Europe and Central America.

Mum loved her flower and vegetable gardens and enjoyed countless hours in the sunshine tending to the plants to ensure their success. This was her pride and joy She loved nature and daily hikes with

Ian in Kenna Cartwright Park. But her greatest joys were her family and longtime friends in Kamloops. She was devoted to her grandchildren and was our best cheerleader, supporting us in numerous activities that we were involved in, and she always enjoyed her coffee outings with friends. Mum was an extraordinary cook, celebrating her French heritage, and always enjoyed preparing sumptuous meals for us and gatherings with friends. Mum also enjoyed travel, in particular to the countries of Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Mexico where she and Ian would immerse themselves in the local Mayan cultures and further their grasp of Spanish through courses and practice. She also loved Beautiful BC and explored our mountain regions and coastal waters, and loved to share this beauty when relatives visited from France and Scotland.

With sincere gratitude, the family recognizes the caring Staff at Ridgeview Lodge (Pacific-2nd floor) where Mum resided for nearly 3 years. Their dedication and love for Mum showed true compassion throughout her stay and final months. Thank you. We would also like to thank her longtime physician, Dr Chip Bantock, for his kind and dedicated care over so many years, and Dr van der Merwe for his recent care of Mum over the past year

Mum - we are so grateful for all your support, kindness, encouragement, and unconditional love that you have given us throughout our lives. We are happy that you will join Dad and Hannah and together you will be forever watching over us. You will be sadly missed, lovingly thought of, and never forgotten and loved forever by all who knew you.

Annie would want warm memories of times spent together and flowers planted next Spring to be her legacy She also would encourage a walk on Doc Findlay Trail in Kenna Cartwright Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate support for the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation, 311 Columbia St., Kamloops B.C. V2C 2T1 or BC Cancer Society .

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

Thomas “Tom” Yow 1947 - 2022

Thomas, age 73, passed away at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops on October 17, 2022. Tom was born and raised in Kamloops and graduated from Kamloops Senior Secondary School. Tom worked at several liquor stores around Kamloops and was happy assisting customers find that special bottle of wine for that special occasion.

Tom was a respected member of the Little Shuswap Lake Indian Band.

The simplest things pleased Tom, he could be seen walking up to catch a photo of the morning sunrise, riding his bike around town from Tranquille, to out past Campbell Creek. Tom could be found at his thoughtful spots reading and enjoying a beverage. Occasionally a shrill whistle from Tom would catch your ear, to have a quick chat to catch up with family and friends. There will be an open mic, come prepared to share your Tom stories.

Sundays were spent hiking the outdoors around Kamloops with friends and enjoying a nice picnic.

Tom is survived by sister Charlene and brothers Keith (Irene), Lee Roy, Ernest (Beverly), Tony (Kathy), nieces Robyn and Hannah (grand niece Mia) nephews Jordie and Kori. and predeceased by mother Patricia Elizabeth Yow (nee Andrew); father Mah Bing Yow; brother Richard and half brother Wally Williams. Life long loyal friends, Jim Fulton and Bob Cunningham.

Come to Kamloops Funeral Home, 285 Fortune Dr., at 10:00 am on Tuesday, November 8, 2022 to reminisce and celebrate Tom’s life… share hiking, biking, foody stories or to chat. Following the Service, Tom will be taken to Tappen, BC to be laid to rest. All are welcome to join.

Donations to Kamloops Food Bank, Canadian Cancer Society, or Canadian Arthritis Society would be appreciated by the family

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

Shelley Lou Hammond August 11, 1964 - October 5, 2022

Shelley Lou passed away age of 58. Was born in Kamloops on August 11, 1964 and raised in the North Thompson. October 5, 2022, her battle with cancer ended. She is survived by her daughters, Bobbie-Jo, and Hailee. Her sister Jodie, nephews, and many cousins. Predeceased by brother Randy, father Donald, and mother Judith.

She was kind, caring, loving mother, always positive and a successful Real-Estate Agent.

1985 became a Real-Estate Salesman. She got her agent's ticket 1988 and started her company in 1996. Married Chuck Koppman 1991.

Shelley’s hobbies were construction, became an Auctioneer 1987 and her pets. Her best achievement in life was her daughters and being a mother

As per Shelley's request, there will be no funeral. Instead, there will be a Wake in her honour for family and friends in future.

Condolences may be sent to DrakeCremation.com

Joan Louise Cole (nee) Chase

February 19, 1933 - October 11, 2022

Joan passed away peacefully in her sleep at The Hamlets in Kamloops on Tuesday October 11, 2022. Joan was born in Kamloops on February 19, 1933.

Joan leaves behind a daughter: AnnMarie (Douglas) Jury and a son : Michael (Susan) and grandchildren Joseph (Lasha), Sarah (Mike), Nathan and Benjamin. She also leaves behind two great grandchildren Madden and Wyatt and two sisters Gladys Heyworth and Shirley Meister Joan was predeceased by her parents Ted and Evelyn, her husband Tom Cole and her daughter Christie Cole.

Joan was a teacher all her working career from her first job at Stuart Wood in Kamloops in 1952 until her last job at the Regional Learning Centre in Kamloops 1992. She taught in Campbell River and Merritt too.

The family would like to thank The Hamlets for all the care and support Joan received on her stay there.

Celebrate the lives of loved ones with your stories, photographs and tributes

HC "Joe" Dowkes

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Harry Charles Dowkes, on October 1, 2022 at Royal Inland Hospital, known to most friends and family as Joe. After a day and evening full of his family singing, remembering their favourite things about papa and all saying goodbye, Joe peacefully fell asleep with his wife and soulmate of 54 years, Rosanna, by his side.

Joe was born in Trail, BC on September 8. 1942, the fifth and youngest child to Harry and Bertha Dowkes. He grew up in Robson, BC with his four sisters Joy, Hazel, Elsie and Gloria.

Joe spent 9 years in the army and was stationed in Germany, where his first son Tom was born. After finishing his 2 terms, Rosanna, Tom and Joe lived at Vedder Crossing, BC for a few years and then decided to move back to Kamloops, BC in 1972 to be closer to family Their other two children, Andreena and Kevin arrived within the next few years. After the army, Joe drove buses for awhile and then tried his hand at sales where he found his calling and enjoyed being part of the family carpet business (Paragon Flooring) from1972 to 1999. After retiring, Joe decided to go back to driving buses through Thompson Valley Charters driving for Greyhound, Rube Band and various sports teams.

Over his years he has been an avid golfer (KGCC and Mount Paul), square dancer, bowler, and Studebaker enthusiast, and even the president of the North Shore Business Association (NSBA); later, Joe became a member of the white cane and lawn bowling clubs. Over the years, Joe and Rosanna were the hosts of many, many get-togethers, parties and celebrations at their home on Fleetwood. There was always delicious food on the BBQ, and the pool was always open if you stopped by for a visit. Sunday family dinners were the best growing up and are something we will all cherish and pass on to his grandkids and future generations. In the later years after losing his eyesight and a few health issues, they moved into Cottonwood Manor where he was always quick with a hello and a big smile. Joe loved to travel and together, he and Rosanna travelled the world; cruising was their favourite and the last one they did together was a 45-day cruise around South America. Family and friends were at the top of the list for Joe, and he will be very missed by all who knew or ever met him.

Every rainbow we see will be a visit from you, knowing you are happy and always with us.

Joe was predeceased by his parents Harry and Bertha Dowkes, his in-laws Les and Ethel Foster, three of his sisters Joy (John) Hauser, Hazel (Eric) Roos, and Elsie Dowkes. Joe leaves behind his wife Rosanna, his sister Gloria (Ernie) Windstanley, brother- in-law Mike (Linda) Foster his children Tom Dowkes, Andreena (Rob) Wiggins and Kevin Samantha, Benjamin, great and great great nephews and nieces.

Judith Ingrid Havens (née Johnston)

March 27, 1951 - September 20, 2022

THE ANGEL ON YOUR SHOULDER

By Jackie Huston Lena, Wisconsin

Judith is survived by Thomas Edward Havens, sons Thomas J. Havens, Robert Joseph Piché and daughter Stephanie Elizabeth Havens.

Carol Irene Hall

Carol Irene Hall passed away peacefully on October 17, 2022 after a long, and hard fought battle with her health issues. Carol was a leap year baby, and in 2020 celebrated her 20th birthday with a large family gathering. Getting an education in psychiatric nursing, Carol was destined to help people but also found a love of animals.

Carol was one of the first employees at the Kamloops Wildlife Park. She had the unique opportunity to rehabilitate many animals that were brought into the park after they had been injured, and at the same time was raising 4 young, active children. One of the many animals that required care was a baby racoon that Carol had to bottle feed to keep it alive. The racoon (Cornelia) was the first to be raised in captivity and because of its lack of fear of people, Cornelia was featured in a Wonderful World of Disney movie.

Carol’s career then moved into the healthcare field where she worked at Ponderosa Lodge helping the elderly She was a passionate volunteer with Victim Services and was presented with an award for her exceptional understanding and caring for people who were going through what was likely, the worst time of their life. She volunteered with the Arthritis Society, was a member of the Red Hat Society, and was active with her knitting group (stitch & bitch). She enjoyed live theatre and often purchased passes for Sagebrush Theatre.

Her love of animals included two very special dogs; Chichi and Joey Her pets were very important to her and she was often at the dog park laughing at their silly doggy behaviour Carol was an amazing gardener and would grow the best vegetable and flower gardens. She had numerous indoor plants that thrived under her care.

Carol spent her final years at Mayfair Manor where she was re-acquainted with old friends who had moved into the lodge as well as meeting many new friends. Occasionally she could be found volunteering at the front desk, greeting visitors at the Mayfair Manor She enjoyed going for Sunday drives, looking out the window and checking things out.

Carol’s children: Judi Vandenbrink, Dave Vandenbrink (Carolin), Don Vandenbrink (Ada), Sharon Kivari (Randy), grandchildren: Cora, Darcie, Tara, Cory, Tony, Samantha and several great grandchildren, and two great, great-grandchildren are all heartbroken and will miss her for the rest of time.

DO NOT GO GENTLE INTO THAT GOOD NIGHT

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.

There’s an angel on your shoulder Though you may not know she’s there, She watches over you day and night And keeps you in her care. There’s an angel on your shoulder Watching you learn and grow Keeping you safe from danger And nurturing your soul. She’ll be there through your triumphs She’ll dance on clouds with pride, She’ll hold your hand through disappointments and fears, Standing faithfully by your side. In her lifetime this angel was strong and true, And stood up for what was right. In your life you’ll be faced with decisions and trials And she’ll shine down her guiding light. Life holds so much in store for you, So remember as you grow older, There are no heights you cannot reach ‘Cause there’s an angel on your shoulder.

Springs, CO

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

A Celebration of Life T will be held October 30th 1-4 at Mayfair Manor

Don MacKenzie December 11, 1946 - October 16, 2022

In Loving Memory of Don MacKenzie

After his initial tour of the west, he returned to Nova Scotia, working at various places, when he was reunited with his high school sweetheart Brenda Conrad. They were married in 1968 in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and in 1969 Don made his dream come true and moved to Kamloops BC to start his new life.

Don worked a few jobs in Kamloops through the earlier years finally finding his place in the construction trade. Don worked in construction as a labourer and site foreman until he decided to start his own construction contracting company in the mid 1980’s, which he worked at until he retired in 2019 at the age of 73.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Don MacKenzie on October 16th 2022 at the age of 75 with his family by his side.

Don is survived by his wife Leanne Chabot, daughter Tanya (Ross) Presta, son Donnie MacKenzie of Calgary, grandson Tristan MacKenzie of Calgary, siblings Ronnie (Sheila) MacKenzie of Nova Scotia, Linda Deale of Nova Scotia, Barbie MacKenzie of Nova Scotia, Eileen Myers of Nova Scotia, Donna (Paul) Elliott of Nova Scotia, Carol (Rob) Vatcher of New Brunswick, sister in-law Mary MacKenzie of Nova Scotia and many, many nieces and nephews.

Don was predeceased by his parents, Owen and Florence MacKenzie, three brothers, Ivan, Kenny and Ross MacKenzie and two granddaughters Baylie and Isabella Presta.

Don was born in Meaghers Grant County, Nova Scotia on December 11th 1946, he was the fifth out of ten children. Don had a dream to come west from Nova Scotia in his early teens which became a reality in his late teens. On his initial journey throughout BC he fell in love with Kamloops and decided that’s where he eventually wanted to throw down roots.

Steve Booy

Throughout his life Don enjoyed many hobbies including: fishing, hunting, camping, quadding and gardening to name a few Don loved having his family around and loved to make everyone laugh with his unforgettable stories and his larger than life sense of humour, quick wit and constant comical tormenting of his family and friends.

Don was also very caring and kind and always made himself available to lend a helping hand or hand up to anyone who needed it.

Don will be loved and never forgotten by the people whose lives he was fortunate enough to touch. Memorial donation can be made in his name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

If you knew Don and he touched your life in some way, please join us to remember him in the Kamloops Funeral Chapel, 285 Fortune Drive on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at 11am with Pastor Don Maione Officiating.

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

Steve passed away peacefully with his loving children by his side. Steve was a loving Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather He worked for the City of Kamloops for many years. He took great pride in his garden, grew the best potatoes, and shared his vegetables with so many people.

Steve was predeceased by his Mother and Father, loving Wife Anne (1971), Virginia (2013), and Brother Pete.

He is survived by his Daughter Diane, Sons Dale (Lois), and Dwayne. Loving Grandchildren Stashia (Colin), Alicia (Richard) Lindsay (Darian), and his cutie Tamara. Great Grandfather to Calen, Charlotte, and Jacob.

We all miss you dearly but are forever in our hearts. There was no service as per his wishes. Condolences may be sent to DrakeCremation.com

Paul Prehara 1928 - 2022

Paul Prehara passed peacefully on October 16th, 2022 at the age of 93, surrounded by his loving children at his side. Paul was born in Coalhurst, Alberta on November 3, 1928 and resided in North Kamloops on Maple Street for nearly 89 years.

He is survived by his children David (Terry) Prehara , Michael Prehara (Sue Threlkeld) of Kamloops and Debbie Miller (Harry Cole) of Campbell River, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephew and nieces. He was predeceased by his sister Christine Schmidt in 1987 and his brother George Prehara in 2006.

You would find Paul carving the slopes of Todd Mountain/Sun Peaks from the year the mountain opened in 1961 to February 2020 (92 years of age), and water skiing on the Thompson River during the summer months.

Paul was baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness in October of 1969 and served Jehovah faithfully until his passing.

The family thanks the nurses and doctors at Royal Inland Hospital for their caring of Paul during his short stay We also would like to thank Kevin Batdorf for his help and support to Paul and his family during this difficult time.

There will be a Celebration of life November 5, 2022, 2 p.m at the Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall located at 270 Leigh Road, Kamloops, BC.

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

Ask DRAKE

Drake Smith, MSW Funeral Director Every Wednesday in KTW!

Q. Double Disposition?

A. Laws in BC say that a deceased body must be “disposed of” (what a horrendous word!) and it can happen in one of two ways: burial or cremation. If it’s buried, the law considers “disposal” complete.

If it’s disposed of by cremation, it has to be disposed of again once it becomes ashes That second disposal can be complicated!

Drake Cremation & Funeral Services

Lansdowne • 425 Tranquille Rd.

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Ted Wiggins 1935 - 2022

It is a world of sadness that we announce the passing of Ted Wiggins on October 12, 2022.

He leaves behind his beautiful bride Gloria of 57 years, his two daughters

Shelly Hansen & Jo-Ann Canuel (Bernard), grandchildren Jena, Grant and Nickalas along with great grandchildren.

Ted was born in Edmonton on October 31, 1935, then moved to Vancouver at the age of 17, later transferring to Prince George where he met the love of his life.

Together they moved to Williams Lake where they raised their family and made great friends and many memories.

Retiring at the age of 54 and moving to Vancouver Island, later settling in Kamloops.

Ted will be sadly missed but never forgotten.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to encourage donations to the Kidney Foundation.

Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com

Gordon Dewar

It is with sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Gordon Wilson Dewar (May 17, 1953 October 9, 2022). Gordon passed away peacefully in his sleep, having enjoyed his favourite things (good food and music) until his very last day

Gordon was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Edna Dewar of Kamloops, and is survived by his sisters, Hilary Wahlstrom (Keith) of Salt Spring Island, BC, Rona Tennant (Alan) of Calgary, AB, and Elaine Dewar (Shorty) of Saranac Lake, NY He is also survived by four nieces and nephews and five great nieces and nephews.

Gordon was born in Scotland, then spent his early years in Cyprus. Gordon's parents were astounded that he could understand and respond to requests in English, Greek and Turkish despite remaining non-verbal himself. After Cyprus, Gordon moved with his family to England and in 1970, he followed his family to Canada.

Gordon spent his days listening to everything from classical music to pop, and reggae. He always appreciated live performances, but could be quite the critic, too. If you made a mistake, he might show his displeasure by getting up and leaving the room. Gordon was a long-time member of the Kamloops Fiddlers' Society, joining them to listen to rehearsals and performances until the advent of the pandemic.

Thanks to the innovative thinking and progressive policies of Kamloops Society for Community Inclusion and It’s My Life Kamloops Society, Gordon, who had autism, lived his very best life. He took part in many diverse activities including helping feed animals at the petting zoo, attending hockey games, and going swimming and fishing.

Over the years, Gordon had many great caregivers, but extra special gratitude must go to Ken Phillips and Pam Casselman who went way above and beyond in providing care and making a home for Gordon. During the last two decades of his life, Gordon shared a home with Steven Plotnikoff, whose mother, Sharon Chum, treated Gordon like a second son.

The family is grateful to the many different people who featured in Gordon's life over the years. We will all miss his mischievous sense of humour and hope that everyone will remember his antics with a smile.

There will be no formal service for Gordon, but should anyone wish to make a donation in his name, please consider It's My Life Kamloops Society or The Canadian National Autism Foundation.

Richard (Dick) Arthur Johnson February 14, 1936 - October 16, 2022

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Dick Johnson at the age of 86 years. He died peacefully at Ponderosa Lodge.

Dick was born on Valentines Day, February 14, 1936, in Cadomin, Alberta to parents, William Julius Johnson and Mable Lillian Douglas. He was a coal miner ’s son and grew up in Cadomin. His family would relocate to Burns Lake, BC in 1950. The family then moved to Kitimat, BC on the northwest coast in 1955. Here he met his lovely wife Maxine Verlie Middleton, and they were married in 1956 and remained so for 65 years. In 1972 with six children, the family relocated to Kamloops. Dick attended Cariboo College (TRU) where he would obtain his journeyman’s ticket as an electrician.

After retiring in 1996, Dick and Verlie travelled to several countries, and they would follow their dream – to set up home at the ocean’s edge in Ladysmith Marina, BC. Together they would join the Power-Squadrons and become leaders at their yacht club. After 10 years of exploring the west coast inlets, they would find themselves back on the mainland and, eventually returned to Kamloops in 2013.

Dick is survived by his wife Verlie, sisters Erna (Douglas Jobb) and Anne (Jacob Rusten), and brother Stewart (Carol), daughter Cindy (Ray of Edmonton), sons Richard (Geri of Duncan) and David (Dale of Kamloops), daughter-in-law Brenda (of Kamloops), seven grandchildren (Kurt, Travis, Adam, Nathan, Devan, Carlee, and Aaron) and four great-grandchildren (Camryn, Donald, Serenity and Fox), and numerous nephews and nieces.

He is predeceased by his three sons, Donald Middleton, Dale Kim, and Brian Emil, his brother Douglas, and his parents.

A celebration of life will take place next spring.

The family is ever grateful to all the staff at Ponderosa Lodge for their loving care of Dick over the last 2½ years. We sincerely thank everyone who helped make his stay comfortable.

Condolence messages may be sent to www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

JODI

LIZ SPIVEY

PAUL DE LUCA

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RYLANWILLOUGHBY

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MAKAYLA PEVERILL DigitalSales

IN LOVING MEMORY OF JAMES FREDERICK NEWBERY March 18, 1956 - September 29, 2022

It is with profound sadness and much love that we say goodbye to our beloved Jim.

Our dear brother, James Frederick Newbery, known to many friends and family as “Jimmy” passed away suddenly on September 29, 2022, at home.

A son, grandson, brother, father, uncle, cousin, grandfather and beloved friend, Jim will be remembered for his loving spirit, sense of humor and positive attitude. His generosity for his family, friends and community was legendary He was helpful, thoughtful, independent, loving, and supportive.

Jim loved independence, free will and adventure. No one could keep up with him. From the time he was a toddler, it was always ‘Life On the Edge’ for that guy Later on, he was always happy to be “Riding on the Highways’ on his big Harley More recently, health issues dictated that he trade in his big Harley for his “Hardly” as he called it. Jim was a familiar face in his neighbourhood as he rode around on his big red scooter on personal business, checking on others, helping the locals, or volunteering for local agencies. Since his move to Kamloops, his passion for helping others in his community was endless. He was a community man.

Jim is survived by his two daughters, Natasha and Nicole, his son Nicholas, and his grandchildren. He also leaves to mourn his eight siblings and all of their families: brother Robin and Gillian, brother Patrick and Leslie, brother Scott and Brenda, brother Jerry and Lesley, sister Melanie and family, sister Naomi and Myles, sister April and Dave, sister Marlin (Donna) and Al.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Shirley Newbery

The sudden and tragic loss of our brother has left a void in all of us. You will live in our hearts forever Jim.

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

GIVE LAVISHLY LIVE ABUNDANTLY

By Helen Steiner Rice

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

Keith Roy Carson June 29, 1935 - October 10, 2022

Keith Carson was born June 29, 1935 in Bethune, Saskatchewan to Hugh and Lena Carson. After moving to BC, the Carson family spent many years at their farm at White Lake and Keith graduated from Salmon Arm Senior High School in Salmon Arm in June of 1954.

After working various jobs in the Thompson Okanagan region, Keith began working at Holding Lumber at Adams Lake where he worked his way from the green chain to grading to running a forklift. It was there that he met the love of his life, Darlein, and they were married in January of 1956.

Keith spent a number of years working for Kamloops Pulp and Paper Company Ltd. (later Weyerhaeuser) where he signed a Contract of Apprenticeship in October of 1966 and achieved his Red Seal Endorsement as a Millwright in October of 1970. After leaving the pulp mill, Keith spent the remainder of his working years in civil service, beginning as an Apprenticeship Counsellor for the Ministry of Labour in 1974 until his retirement after having worked up to Area Supervisor in 1995. He always had stories of the many students and instructors that he met through his career, and he was still in contact with many of them for years after he retired.

Keith enjoyed golfing, dog walks, fishing and camping at Adams Lake, the occasional hunting excursion, and he was an avid reader and life-long learner; having received numerous awards, certificates, and accolades throughout his life.

A strong, intelligent, loving man, Keith was predeceased by his parents and his wife of 49 years. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten by his children, Darrell and Cheryl; his grandchildren, Dustin, Joni, Christopher and Cody; his brothers Jim and Blaine as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.

A service for Keith will be held on July 15, 2023 at Mount Ida Cemetery in Salmon Arm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Keith’s name to the SPCA.

The family would like to send a special thank you and enormous gratitude to the staff at Pine Grove Care Centre in Kamloops who provided amazing care and support during Keith’s battle with dementia right up to his final day on October 10, 2022, when he returned to the loving arms of his wife, Darlein.

Fly Me

He understands every mode of force He knows what’s true of the elements

He is subtle but genuine at lift off and landing

He is an airplane ride blowing through the clouds

He is an airplane window that reveals a whole dimension

He is a propeller to delve farther deep into the universe like fractals

He is an airplane grounded in the sky mighty with fuel

He is an airplane engine efficient, sustaining and swift He is a wing of a plane that stabilizes my lift

He has an open storage to keep the baggage balanced on flight He has a trap door that releases the body of pain

He has a water tank to keep the peace

Here is a safe place to crash

A ride in the sky at night reveals a bright shiny movement

You, my plane, are visible to the naked eye in each spectrum

by Kathy Ruth Manongdo Written on Father’s Day 2010

Am I your passenger?

Am I your wingman?

Am I your baggage?

Am I your well oiled engine?

Am I your wing?

Am I your lift in the air?

Am I your propeller that thrusts you to a new dimension?

I am all that you shape me to be You have a windshield view exposing the picture beyond

Only you fit the pilot’s seat

As your hands and feet heart and eyes are trained to work the plane

You know every part and how to fix it

You are navigating by the spirit

You belong to a solid tender heart and so accepted as firm to soar

You’re worth the shiniest mint coins and bills in circulation and so loved

Your competence as an airplane secures my place

For more experiences with you Will you invite me onboard?

Psalms 91:4 says, “He shall cover you with His feathers, And under his wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler”