North Shore Echo, January 4, 2017

Volunteers can win with Kamloops Sports Council z | Page 3

your neighbourhood. your newspaper.

north shore All the best in 2017!

Bublé Christmas gooey-ness and post-Boxing Day blahs z | Page 5

B U S I N E S S A S S O C I AT I O N

Volume 16 Number 1 | 50¢

January 4, 2017

OPEN FOR BUSINESS 250.376.2411

Great day at the office with the NSBIA With a vast number of community gatherings and family friendly events punctuating each season, North Kamloops has grown so much in past years.

Between summer and Christmas open houses at the Wilson House, Overlanders Day, Movie Night, Treat Street, from the Bike to Work Week to the Spirit of Christmas festivities, there is always an occasion to look forward to on the North Shore.

Behind those events is a great collective known as the North Shore Business Improvement (L-R) North Shore Business Association (NSBIA).

Their mission? To promote Improvement Association current business and shopping members Steven Puhallo, Don districts and to oversee the MacMillan, Bryce Herman, Marg beautification, maintenance and Spina (council liaison), Andrew improvement efforts of munici- Watson and Valerie Hostyn. pally owned land, buildings and structures. The NSBIA balances The NSBIA is a team of proinitiatives that benefit the pres- fessionals and property owners; ent and the future. the volunteer Board of Directors Kelsey Ford, administrative is comprised of individuals that assistant for the NSBIA, says provide support to the NSBIA 2017 will kick off with “strate- staff, Stephen Puhallo, execugic planning” for the next four tive director and assistant years. One of the highest pri- Kelsey Ford. BIA members at orities is to maintain community the annual general meeting elect connectedness and continue to the Board yearly. develop events that will promote Bryce Herman, president, is growth and inclusion. the director of food and beverEver wonder who is behind age at Chances Casino. Boasting the incredible events hap- more than 35 years as a multipening on the North Shore? faceted professional in marWonder no more! keting and tourism, Bryce is a

Top: Spice of India offering a selection of savoury dishes during Overlanders Day. Bottom: The new McDonald Park splash pad opened in the summer of 2016.

teacher, fundraiser, relationship and facilities manager.

Darren Hicks, owner of Interior Crafts and Hobbies is also the NSBIA vice-president.

The hobby shop has been his family’s business since 1968.

NSBIA treasurer Don MacMillan is the owner of Big Don’s Super Pawn, which opened in 2008.

I consider my residents like family; taking care of ONE them makes me proud. BEDROOM IRENE, HEALTH & WELLNESS MANAGER WORKING AT CHARTWELL SINCE 2007.

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NSBIA directors are comprised of several business owners and professionals. Andrew Watson is the owner of No Limits Fitness.

Brandy Hazen is the long-time manager of the North Shore McDonalds. Valerie Hostyn is an Insurance Broker at Capri Insurance. Heather Fagervik is the owner of Heathers Fabric Shelf.

- continued on page 2

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2 n January 4, 2017

North Shore echo

Thank you!

Jennifer Harbaruk, annual giving coordinator for the Canadian Cancer Society receives a cheque in the amount of $1000 from Fraternal Order of Eagles president George Cairns. The funds will go to good use, as most of us know someone who has been affected by the disease.

IAFF and City of Kamloops reach collective agreement The City of Kamloops and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 913 have voted to ratify a new collective agreement. This new five-year agreement is retroactive to January 1, 2015 and will expire on December 31, 2019.

Key features of the new collective agreement include: the ability to provide improved levels of training, which will broaden and enhance our members’ skills, a competitive wage structure for Kamloops Fire Rescue’s (KFR’s) dispatch service that will enable further growth of this valuable service, a 2.5 per cent annual wage increase, which is based on similar increases in the majority of Lower Mainland municipalities, and expanded training opportunities for KFR staff and outlying fire departments.

The language in the contract

will help with implement- lective agreement is the result “genuinely impressed by the coling KFR’s new strategic plan, of considerable effort by both laborative work done throughwhich will continue to improve parties to improve our service. out the negotiation process. The service delivery to citizens. We are excited that we now negotiations were very respectKris Krutop, IAFF Local 913 have increased opportunities ful and focused on value for our president, noted that it “will for growth, particularly in our citizens.” Mayor Peter Milobar provide stability for members, dispatch and training divisions. commented on the agreement, which will ultimately improve City of Kamloops corporate “I am confident this new agreeour service to the public. services and community safety ment will provide great value to Krutop also noted that this “col- director, David Duckworth, was our citizens.”

Meet the members of the North Shore Business Association – continued from front Rod McLeod, owner of McLeod Law is also the only lawyer on the North Shore.

Virginia Rogers and Jason Cain are both graduates of NorKam Secondary School. Virginia (Dolly) is the owner of Dolly’s Skin Art and Jason is the owner of Cain’s Independent Grocer.

Council liaison Marg Spina, has been a councillor for the City of

Kamloops since 1976. Marg also Kelsey is excited for the year served as the North Rotary presi- ahead, and says, “It’s always a dent from 1999 to 2000. great day at the office with the With dedicated members of the NSBIA.” NSBIA behind the North Shore, For more information about the retail sector continues to the North Shore Business flourish. New and used baby Improvement Association, refer boutique Pip and Pea Clothing to the website www.nsbia.com. opened recently and Mary Questions or concerns? Fill out Brown’s Chicken and Tator-Tots the “Contact Us” page, or call is opening in Brock Shopping 250-376-2411.

Centre on January 10.

Alicia Ashcroft, freelance

North Shore echo

Helping hands

January 4, 2017 n 3

ECHO ASKS Opinions of the people who matter – you.

How do you beat the January blahs?

Penny Walton

Teresa Crawford

More swimming and exercise.

Keep busy as a family unit so we don’t get the blahs.

Josh Herrick

Chris Sebastian

Eat brownies.

Spend time with family and keep busy.

BC Transit

Lo-Boy Market

Bob Morgan (3rd from right) of the Fraternal Order of Eagles presents a cheque for $500 to the crew of volunteers at the Mount Paul United Church recently for their lunch program.

Volunteers can win big with Kamloops Sports Council The Kamloops Sports Council has Draws will happen on a monthly basis announced the revival and re-branding until Volunteer Week in April, when of what was formerly known as the Kamloops Sports Council will be giving Tournament Capital Club. away prizes to six volunteers. After the The Tournament Capital Volunteer big giveaway during Volunteer Week Program is a Sports Council initiative Kamloops Sports Council will empty aimed at providing recognition to the their draw barrel and start collecting many volunteers who contribute so much names for another year. In order to be to our community throughout the year. eligible all you have to do is volunteer Anyone who volunteered through the at an event that the Kamloops Sports Kamloops Sports Council’s Kindness Council manages the volunteers for.

Connect system with the Scotiabank Upcoming events include the 2017 Hockey Day in Canada, Women’s Worlds Legacy Performance Games, the 2017 50/50 Program, Legacy Performance Special Olympic BC Summer Games, Games, 2016 Ribfest, BrewLoops Beer 2017 Ribfest and the 2017 BrewLoops NSE Jan 4Beer / DTE and Bike Festival or the ITF TaeKwon-Do and Jan Bike5Festival, just to name a few! have been entered into the draw to win one The first winner is Danalee Baker, a of four great prizes! For every shift worked volunteer at Ribfest and the executive volunteers get one entry into the draw. director of the United Way.

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4 n January 4, 2017

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meet our team JACK BELL

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Administrator New Year and a new start

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Brightest blessings to all

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COMMUNITY

Christmas tree recycling on now

Secret Santa success!

The City of Kamloops is once again offering free Christmas tree recycling around the city until January 15.

Recycled trees save landfill space and produce compost material for use in parks and gardens. To date, Kamloops has recycled close to 150,000 trees!

Please ensure your tree is clean of any wires, tinsel and decorations or plastic.

Drop o ff your Christmas tree at these locations: Albert McGowan Park, Barnhartvale Yard Waste Depot, Brocklehurst Park, Cinnamon Ridge Compost Facility, Dallas Fire Hall, Juniper Park, Len Haughton Park, McArthur Island, McGill Yard Waste Depot, RaeMor Park, Westsyde Park and the Yacht Club.

During the 2015/2016-holiday season, the City received 3383 Christmas trees at their drop off locations The Centre for Seniors Information Kamloops (CSI) had 60 gifts packed and wrapped to be recycled. The most with care and extra love! Pictured here, Brandi Allen, CSI Kamloops executive assistant, popular drop off sites was delighted at the generosity of the community. The elves were out and about was once again Albert delivering packages before Christmas to make sure lonely and isolated seniors had a McGowan, followed by brighter holiday. CSI Kamloops would like to thank the Echo - Downtown and North McArthur Island, the Shore for all the help and support this year! And a very special thank you to all the Yacht Club and Westsyde Park. wonderful people in the community who donate to this project year after year.

Keystone Awards finalists announced The Canadian Home Builders Association Central Interior (CHBA CI) announced the 2017 finalists of the 12th Annual Keystone Awards.

“We were thrilled to showcase the incredible work that is done in the Thompson and Nicola Valley region,” said CHBA Central Interior

president, Rob Lemire.

The following finalist companies are Silver award winners and will compete for the Gold award, which will be announced at the Keystone Awards Gala at TRU Grand Hall on Saturday, February 4.

To see a full list of the finalist please visit: www.

chbaci.ca/2017keystonea wardssilverfinalists.htm.

The judging of entries took place on Friday, December 2 by three well-respected awardwinning professionals in the home building industry. Alex Tavuchis of RDC Fine Homes, Bev Hasenpflug of Quantum Properties and Krista

Almeida of Ian Paine Construction Ltd. drew on their experience and expertise to adjudicate each entry in its category.

Tickets for the Gala are now available and can be purchased online at www.chbaci.ca/​2017keystoneawardsgala.htm or call the CHBA CI office 250-828-1844.

PHONE: 250-374-ECHO (3246) FAX: 250-374-3247 EMAIL: echo@shawcable.com snail mail: #1 - 219 Victoria St, Kamloops, BC V2C 2A1

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Tell us what you think about the issues on the North Shore. Let us echo your thoughts and ideas with your neighbours. We are your newspaper in your neighbourhood.

North Shore echo

January 4, 2017 n 5

Bublé Christmas gooey-ness and post-Boxing Day blahs Dismantling the Christing that time would just mas tree is one of the sadslow down already. dest events of the calendar Taking the tree down year. Some people are admits defeat, ushers in quickly banishing the sparpost-Boxing Day blahs. kly decorative elements That tree is our glittering shortly after the closing of mascot, the wingman for Christmas Day and I just the fireplace…we grow can’t get behind that. accustomed to it year after My husband and I always year. Taking the tree down PERFECTLY intend on taking the tree is the last straw, the YuleFABULOUS down early. Not Boxing tide death rattle. We always Alicia Ashcroft Day early—that’s just crazy leave it way too late; trying talk. Where else can you leave the pres- to enjoy what’s left of Christmas, until ents you haven’t put away yet? Wait it’s mid January and it’s a race to get it until after New Years at least. off to a recycling area.

I’m happy to let most of the holiday Truth is, Christmas tree, I just can’t frippery go—the movies, the music, quit you. but that Christmas feeling…that Also, it’s like takedown after an holiday warmth and Michael Bublé event, everyone knows the best part Christmas gooey-ness, that “what day is decorating and the worst part is is it anyway?” vibe between Christ- deconstructing the good time that mas and the New Year… it’s like has just passed by. Putting everything gripping on to the bottom railing of a away neatly, all the ornament hooks, helicopter as it takes off. all the rogue tinsel tangled up.

Trying…to…hold…on…to…holiday Once the tree is gone it’s just a phanfeelings. tom pine smell and needles on the floor.

And then you plummet, like Hans Was the room always this big? Where Gruber off the skyscraper at the end did everything go before? of Die Hard.

Poor post-Christmas trees, the star Going back to work is such a chore. of December and a cast-off come New Your brain feels like fruitcake that’s Year. Come January, we’re gripped by been smashed repeatedly with a ham- the guilt of ditching the once living tree. mer and lying in a pool of eggnog. We The worst part is dragging it off the all try to convince ourselves of our back of the truck at the recycling depot, readiness on the last day of Christmas adding it to the heap of other abandoned holidays, don’t we? trees and driving away with the greenMoving forward. Looking ahead. I’ve ery shrinking in the rear-view window. had a nice break and now it’s time for I’m sorry little tree, you deserved beta fresh start. ter. I should have done right by you.

Suddenly you’re rocking in a corner, Now faced with packing the rest of clutching crumpled wrapping paper in Christmas into a box, I dread losing your sweaty fist, cry-singing Christ- sight of the sparkling, shining little mas carols and huffing nutmeg. Wish- white lights for yet another year.

TRU’s energy management pays off BC Hydro has recognized Thompson Rivers University (TRU) as an energy conservation leader. Saving $500,000 collectively in utility costs this year alone; TRU has more energy savings as a percentage of total consumption than any other post-secondary institution in the province.

A participant in BC Hydro’s Energy Manager Program for the past seven years, BC Hydro congratulated TRU and Jim Gudjonson, director of the Office of Environmental Sustainability and energy manager for the program, for outstanding energy efficiency results and ongoing support for conservation and energy management.

In his letter to TRU president and vice chancellor Alan Shaver, BC Hydro marketing manager Jim Nelson cited TRU’s work in establishing an overall target that was signed off by senior management, undertaking lighting projects to switch to more energy efficient LED technologies, and participation in BC Hydro’s Continuous Optimization program as key contributions to achieving the energy management goals set out in TRU’s Campus Strategic Sustainability Plan (CSSP), created in 2014.

“I appreciate your dedication to energy management best practices,” Nelson wrote, “and taking a strategic approach to continued reductions in energy use which will help students to learn about the importance of being smart with power.”

Gudjonson says the energy savings were only possible because of the team effort. “We surpassed our energy savings goals thanks to strong support from senior administration, collaboration with Facilities and numerous departments, and the commitment of so many staff and faculty who turn off their lights or shut down their computers when leaving the office.”

The five-year CSSP guides the Sustainability Office’s efforts with short, medium and long-term goals. The CSSP is aligned with the overarching goals of TRU’s strategic priority to increase sustainability, and with the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Reporting System (STARS).

In March 2015 TRU received a Gold AASHE STARS rating with a score of 71.58.

“The university made sustainability one of its five strategic priorities, followed up with an ambitious plan which won the active engagement of students, faculty and staff and now we are seeing remarkable energy savings,” said Shaver. “The university community deserves to feel proud of their commitment.”

Thank you to all that supported us in 2016!

Looking forward to serving you in 2017. Yadda yadda yadda, blah-blah!

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Reaching their goal

North Shore echo

Venues set for 2017 Special Olympics BC Summer Games

The countdown is truly on toward the 2017 Special Olympics BC (SOBC) Summer Games.

January 6 marks six months to go and excitement is building among the more than 1,600 athletes and coaches who will come together in Canada’s Tournament Capital for SOBC’s largest Provincial Games to date. The 2017 SOBC Summer Games venues will be: Bowlertime and Falcon Lanes – 5 and 10-Pin Bowling, Brocklehurst Pool – Swimming, Kamloops Golf and Country Club – Golf, McArthur Island Park – Bocce, Soccer, Sandman Centre – Opening Ceremony, Every year at the Central Animal Hospital they offer their “Nail Trim Powerlifting, Rhythmic GymnasBy Donation” to the Kamloops Food Bank starting the middle of tics, School District #73 schools November until December 24. This was their third annual Nail Trim – Basketball, Tournament Capital

By Donation and last year approximately 300 pounds of both pet and Centre Hillside Stadium – Athhuman food was raised. The Central Animal Hospital’s goal this year letics, and Tournament Capital was to exceed this and that they did! The total this year came to 587 Ranch – Softball. pounds! The Central Animal Hospital would like to thank all their Spectators will be welcome to wonderful, supportive clients for helping reach this goal. attend all SOBC Games competitions on July 7 and 8 and the Opening Ceremony on July 6 – entrance is free. Fans will be treated to inspiring displays of • To kick-start my New Year, I took an IQ test and sport and sportsmanship, and the results were negative.

• The trouble with jogging is that the ice falls help open hearts and minds to out of your glass. understand all that individuals • Definition of a hangover: Wrath of Grapes. with intellectual disabilities can

New Year’s one liners

YOUR DIRECTORY OF

Natural Health

do. Learn more about the venues and events at www.sobcgameskamloops.ca SOBC is very grateful to Broadcast Centre, NL Broadcasting, and Teck for generously signing on as 2017 SOBC Games sponsors. Thanks to all the sponsors who have currently committed to support the Games: Platinum sponsors: City of Kamloops and School District #73, Gold sponsor: New Gold – New Afton Mine, Bronze sponsors: Binnie Consulting, Domtar – Kamloops and Teck, Media sponsors: Broadcast Centre and NL Broadcasting.

“The support of sponsors is absolutely critical, and we are so grateful to the generous organizations in Kamloops and around the province that are stepping forward to help make this empowering experience possible,” SOBC president and CEO Dan Howe says.

Those interested in learning more about Games sponsorship opportunities and benefits are invited to contact Howe at dhowe@specialolympics.bc.ca or 1-888-854-2276 toll-free / 604-737-3079 direct.

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KYSA elects new president The Kamloops Youth Soccer Association (KYSA) board of directors has elected a new president at its monthly board meeting held on December 19.

Candace DodsonWillis was elected from within the sevenperson board, comprised of volunteers who themselves have been elected by the association’s membership at the KYSA Annual General Meeting.

Dodson-Willis has served on the KYSA board for the past two years. This past year (2016) she held the position of vice-president. Candace also served as the chair of the Select Program Committee and the organization’s Employment Committee.

Candace is married to Colin Willis. The couple has two children who both play in the KYSA; 16-year-old daughter Laurenne and ten-year-old son Emerson.

She has been a coach of house league teams for the past six years and has played in the Kamloops Women’s Soccer League for ten years.

Professionally, Candace is an

independent employee benefits consultant.

The president and vice-president of KYSA are elected from within the board of directors of the association on an annual basis.

Dodson-Willis replaces Graham Cope, who has served as KYSA president for the past ten years.

“Graham has done a fantastic job as president,” says DodsonWillis. “He has built the KYSA into one of the most respected youth soccer organizations in the province. His vision and leadership has taken KYSA to great heights. I hope to be able to build on the success he has achieved and continue to help the association grow and prosper in the years ahead!”

Though no longer president, Cope will serve out the remaining year of his two-year term in 2017 as the immediate past president to assist Dodson-Willis in her new role.

At the same meeting, the KYSA board chose Rod Gurnsey as the association’s new vice-president.

The Art and Science of Geology with Donald Bouffard The adventures of an exploration-mining geologist and artist-in-training. On Wednesday, January 25 at 7:00 pm, join the Big Little Science Centre for an opportunity to learn about the amazing life a geologist in the field and the lab. See and touch some amazing rocks, fossils, gems and personally made works of art. Don is, even after more than 40 years, ready, willing and deliriously happy to have this opportunity to ‘show off’ some of his treasures, creations and adventures that have resulted in the creation of rather unique ART-SCI (pronounced ‘Artsy’) products. They are a true symbiosis of Art and Science.

A Canada-wide mining, exploration, consulting and teaching geologist/instructor most of his working life, he is now [finally] retired but, as you will see, still

very active and involved in life and yes, still learning new ‘stuff’! In his profession, Don has hiked, driven, boated and flown throughout most of BC; covering all four points of the compass north to south from Stewart to Osoyoos and west to east from Vancouver Island to Golden. Just another lucky scientist fortunate enough to have seen and experienced Canada, first-hand!

This event is free to attend and is directed at a level for children over ten and adults.

Everyone is invited to attend.

Wheelchair accessible. The Big Little Science Centre is a notfor-profit, registered charity, dedicated to creating a passion for science.

Contact Susan Hammond, assistant operator, for more information: susan@blscs.org.

January 4, 2017 n 7

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Keep kids learning and having fun

Caring in the community

The Dignity Memorial group; Schoening Funeral Services, First Memorial Funeral Services and Pine Grove Crematorium has announced once again to present its donations to the Kamloops community including Royal Inland Hospital Foundation, Kamloops Hospice Association and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Pictured here are (L-R) Mark Revie (Dignity Memorial), Joseph Deal (First Memorial Funeral Services), Alisa Coquet and Denise Slevin (Overlander Residential Care Facility), Rick McArthur (Schoening Funeral Services), Marcel Bourassa (Pine Grove Crematorium) with their donation to RIH Foundation.

(NC) Little ones can often get restless inside during the cold winter months, so find inspiration and ideas with these creative activities that are fun and educational.

Parks, petting zoos, farms and nature discovery walks are all great activities this time of year.

Many animals (like polar bears, Arctic wolves and snow owls (thrive in their natural winter habitats and are much more fun to observe now. Encourage kids to ask questions and look up the answers you don’t know together when you get home.

Schedule some fun with friends that supports learning through play, like by finding an easy DIY creative project for kids online.

Remember: there is no right way to play. The most fun and learning happens in the “doing” rather than a perfect product.

Explore free community events happening year-round, not just during the warmer months.

Find more information about registered early childhood educators at www.college-ece.ca.

HUMIDORS & MORE…

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January 4, 2017 n 9

Interior Health year in review This is a busy time of year, but I find it’s also a time of reflection, particularly as January marks the end of my two-year term as chair and my ten years serving on the Board of Interior Health.

In an effort to decrease demand on hospital and residential services, we continue to shift our focus to integrated primary and community care.

We are developing new approaches and solutions that will benefit patients while making our health care system more sustainable.

This year also had good news for individuals that may require residential care with the announcement of 243 additional beds, including 48 in Kamloops, 60 in Salmon Arm, 70 in Williams Lake plus 14 beds approved in 100 Mile House in existing space.

There were several other important announcements this year.

In April Interior Health launched the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) project in Royal Inland Hospital’s Emergency Department. The EMR not only helps reduce the potential for misunderstanding and misinterpretation of written physician orders, but it enables immediate access to a patient’s medical information for all members of his or her health-care team within the hospital and in the community upon discharge.

The EMR is considered an important step in the digitization of health information, along with the introduction of the new MyHealthPortal e-tool.

Since June, MyHealthPortal has been introduced at nine hospital locations, with more to come. More than 2,300 patients have enrolled to obtain secure 24-hour access to their health information via their smart phone, tablet or computer through a portal from the Interior Health website, inviting patients to take more ownership of their health care.

In Kamloops, the Clinical Services Building officially opened on August 15. Since then, patients have benefited from attending outpatient appointments in a bright, spacious, new patient-care environment, with the convenience of additional on-site parking. The building also features education space for health professionals

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including UBC’s medical school.

The expansion and renovation of Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre’s emergency department was announced this fall, and is expected to strengthen emergency health services in the Coquihalla corridor.

While the last year had several milestones that are to be celebrated, it also had its share of heartbreak, as we saw record numbers of overdose deaths in many Interior Health communities and across the province. Each of these deaths represents a loss no doubt deeply felt in many homes this holiday season. In response, we’ve established an Emergency Incident Management Team to focus on enhanced fatal and non-fatal overdose surveillance, and increased accessibility to harm reduction tools including Take Home Naloxone (THN) kits. We are exploring Safe Consumption Services (SCS) in our highest risk communities, scaling-up substance use services for people who use drugs that are at highest risk of overdose, and providing population based education and prevention.

Still it is clear we need to do more and we were excited when 73 new substance use treatment beds were announced in April, including 57 support recovery beds and 16 withdrawal management beds for communities across Interior Health.

Health care is something I have always been passionate about and I intend to continue to focus on through board work, consulting, and participating in conferences. For example, I have just been appointed by the Health Minister to the provincial shared services board of directors.

As I look back on my time with Interior Health, what really stands out for me is the people I have met along the way. My visits to rural sites and remote First Nations communities were always engaging and I found it an honour to be welcomed to these communities. The employees, physicians and volunteers throughout Interior Health are truly first-rate and I will always be proud of the time I served on the Board, and everything we have accomplished together.

Wishing you all the best in 2017, Erwin Malzer

E E Y AV

Recovering after holiday spending (NC) Post-holiday credit card statement time isn’t exactly the most wonderful time of the year, so check out these tips to help your wallet recover faster.

1. Experiment in the kitchen. Save on fancy dinners out and eat healthier after a season of indulging by heading back into your own kitchen. Make things exciting by looking up new recipe ideas online and trying out new foods and flavours. Involve kids in the planning or have them help out with ageappropriate tasks.

2. Plan a staycation. Between entertaining at home, late-night parties and having your extended relatives visit, the holidays often don’t feel like much of a holiday. If you’re itching for a break, opt for a staycation instead of a pricey vacation. Take some time off work to explore local favourites you haven’t been to in a while or hibernate at home during a long weekend with some great books and films.

3. Sign up for direct deposit. Sometimes you just need that tax refund to come in a little bit sooner. Don’t wait for your cheque to come in the mail by signing up for direct deposit. You’ll get your income tax refund, GST/HST credit and other tax-related payments deposited straight into your bank account and have immediate access to your money.

4. Use that return policy. Many stores offer generous return policies, especially after the holidays — giving as long as three months to return an item. So keep those gift receipts and don’t be ashamed to take back unused merchandise.

5. Free entertainment. Just because you’re trying to stick to a budget doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun. Visit the library for books and movies, and explore smaller local museums that are often free.

WEDNESDAY WING NIGHT 35¢ ea.

THURSDAY PRAWN NIGHT 25¢ ea.

Add Steak & Salad for $6.95

karaoke @ 8pm

FIRKIN FRIDAYS ARE IN FULL SWING! CLUB NIGHT @ 8PM WITH DJ TONY

SATURDAY MEAT DRAW

SATURDAY & SUNDAY BREAKFAST until 2pm Starting from $6.99

10 n January 4, 2017

TALK

North Shore echo

OF THE TOWN Submit your listing: echo@shawcable.com

Goodbye 2016. Hello 2017.

Hands-on Exhibits Clubs and Camps Birthday Parties Lectures With over 140 hands-on exhibits to explore, discover science fun year round. Awesome shows and activities run Saturdays. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Open Year Round 655 Holt Street • 250-554-2572

www.blscs.org

■■ Chances - Live entertainment from 8 to 11pm. Jan. 6- Jay Cee, Jan. 7- Ryan 7. Jam Night every Wed. from 8 to 11pm.

1250 Halston Ave. ■■ Big Little Science CentreJan. 7: Super Static Electricity Show at 11am and 1:30pm. An interactive, fun show that introduces static electricity, explores how it works and produces static in many ways, including using van de Graaff generators.

Is it time for your science centre hair-do? Exploration Room is open 10am to 4pm with over 140 different exhibits to enjoy. 655 Holt Street. FMI visit blscs.org.

■■ Kamloops Track and Field Track Rascal Group winter session runs Jan. 11 to March 1 for athletes who will be 6 to 8 years old as of Dec. 31. Register online at http://kamtrack.ca/ club-registration.html.

■■ Ukrainian New Year’s Dinner and Dance on Jan. 14 at Brock Activity Centre, 9A – 1800 Tranquille Rd. Doors at 5:30pm, dinner 6:30pm, dance from 8pm to 12:30am.

Music by Midnite Dancer. For tickets call Francoise 778220-8010, Norma 250-2997221 or Zonia 250-372-0091.

FMI call 250-571-5111. Ticket deadline is Jan. 4.

■■ Freudian Slips Improv “Marvel vs DC” on Jan. 14 at the Stage House Theatre, 422 Tranquille Rd. Doors at 7:30pm, show at 8pm. Tickets are cash at the door. FMI visit: www.chimeratheatre.com.

■■ Free Boxes available by calling Regina at 250-314-7019.

Great for moving.

■■ Social Ballroom Dancing for terrified beginners to experienced dancers in the Dogwood Room, Cottonwood Manor, 730 Cottonwood Ave. on Thursdays.

Lesson at 6:30pm. Jan 12, 19, 26 - Samba. Dance 7 to 9pm. Dropin fee. FMI contact Dance With Me Kamloops at 250-377-3743 or dancewithmekamloops.com ■■ Kamloops Wood Carvers Club meets every Tues. at 6:30pm at North Shore community Centre, 730 Cottonwood Ave, third Sat. of the month from

Jay Cee will be performing at Chances Barside Lounge on Friday, January 6. The free show is from 8:00 to 11:00 pm.

10am to 1pm at KMS Tools and a dinner meeting on the first Tues. of each month. FMI contact LeRoy Scott at 250-5543552 or nonie.leroyscott@gmail. com.

■■ Fraternal Order of Eagles Weekly Events- Tuesdays 3:30pm to 5:30pm Pull Tab Draws, Wednesdays 4pm to 6pm Horse Races with ‘Big Jim’, Saturday and Sundays 3pm to 5pm Meat Draws.

Karaoke with Michelle Sundays at 7pm. 755 Tranquille Rd 250376-1311.

■■ Thompson Valley RC Race Club Indoor Season races are being held at the OLPH School Basement on various Sundays in the fall and winter. FMI call Brent Wende at 250- 320-1957 or visit www.thompsonvalleyrc. com for full schedule.

■■CSI Activity Center events: Mondays- Euchre at 1:30pm; Tuesdays- Wood carving at 10am, Whist at 1pm, Bingo at 6pm; Wednesdays- Cribbage at 1pm; Thursdays- Stichers Club at 10am, Bridge at 1:15pm, Whist at 1pm; Fridays- Canasta at 1pm.

■■ Donations Wanted of old/ damaged bras to be repaired and passed on to those in need.

FMI call Grace at 250-554-1065.

■■ Metis Jigging on the first Wed. of the month from 7 to 8:30pm at the Parkview Activity Centre, 500 McDonald Ave. Join the Two Rivers Metis Society for dancing, laughing and fun! All ages welcome. FMI call Donna at 250-574-2806.

■■Acoustic Jam Nights at The Alano Club, 171 Leigh Rd from 7 to 10pm on the 1st and 3rd Mon. of each month.

Hosted by Perry Tucker and the Good Gravy Band. Great atmosphere, have a burger and try the hand cut fries.

■■ Zumba and Yoga at the North Shore Community Centre, 730 Cottonwood Ave. Zumba classes on Mondays and Wednesdays and Yoga on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Check for times at www. nsccs.webs.com.

■■ Army and Navy Club Events: Tuesday Bingo at 4:30pm, Wednesday Senior’s Darts 55+ from 1:30 to 4pm, Friday Fun with Karaoke at 7:30pm.

Support local charities on Saturday and Sunday Meat Draws starting at 3pm. Army and Navy Club, #9-177 Tranquille Rd. FMI call 250-554-2455.

■■ Society for Creative Anachronism - Shire of Ramsgaard weekly practice/gathering on Tuesdays at 6:30pm at 150 Wilson St. (in back). FMI call Raynagh at 250-376-6676.

■■ Badminton at the OLPH gym at 7pm on Tues nights.

Small drop in fee covers gym rental and badminton birds.

FMI call Robert at 250-5790193. Everyone welcome.

■■ Meet An Elder on Thursdays from 9am to 4:30pm at Lii Michif Otipemisiwak Family and Community Services, 707 Tranquille Rd. RSVP to 250554-9486. Free.

■■ Variety and Line Dancing on Tuesdays from 3 to 4pm at the North Shore Community Centre, 730 Cottonwood Ave. Drop in fee required. FMI call 250-376-4777.

North Shore echo

January 4, 2017 n 11

echo stargazer Dear Capricorn: (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20) Your 2017 opens with your heart looking locally for support and encouragement. You continue to shine publicly, but your behind the scenes support network is running thin. Love is waiting close to home.

Dear Aquarius: (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Your 2017 opens with love shining a light on financial promises. Destiny however, encourages a team effort. Speak from your heart.

Dear Pisces: (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) Your 2017 opens with love focused on all things Pisces! One look in the mirror is all it will take to see your future destiny. Money energies will surprise.

Dear Aries: (Mar. 21 - April 20) Your 2017 opens with the past stopping in to say hello. Clean up lingering issues and try to focus on your goals. You can’t move forward if you’re constantly looking back.

Dear Taurus: (Apr. 21 - May 21) Your 2017 opens on a social note as love and war mix on a public dance floor. Your heart will be looking to your past to open career doors but you already know it’s your current team who can help the most.

Dear Gemini: (May 22 - June 21) Your 2017 opens with the office calling with news you can’t ignore. The social bug will bite but its misdirected energy. Love is waiting at the office.

Dear Cancer: (June 22 - July 22) Your 2017 opens with love entering your astro-sector of higher learning. This road has been bumpy lately but astro-energies ask for patience. New Year’s resolutions require more discipline than expected.

Dear Leo: (July 23 - Aug 22) Your 2017 opens with destiny shining a financial light that will colour your entire year. Even as energies pull with playful and exotic distractions, your bank balance should remain your focus. When called to action, speak loudly.

Dear Virgo: (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Your 2017 opens with your partner asking for more. Destiny however wants you to triumph your personal needs over the team. Children reveal a balance.

Dear Libra (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) Your 2017 opens with your heart looking for commitments but daily chores keep calling you away from marriage alter. Patience will be required to survive the emotional overload. Check off your goals one at a time.

Dear Scorpio: (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your 2017 opens with an urgent request to release energies which have led you astray. Love says hello in a big way but stalled communications could break your heart. Destiny brings the aid of new friends.

Dear Sagittarius: (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Your 2017 opens with destiny calling for a public performance. All efforts however are focused on mending fences at home. Children will require attention.

Astro-week Sonnyscopes courtesy of Collin Sonny Rosati, Vancouver Astrologer, Hypnotist. For personal readings visit thesunnyside.net.

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Thank you Kamloops for your support!

You brought joy to several in-need seniors this season.

Ring out the old, ring in the new Ring out the old, ring in the new, Ring, happy bells, across the snow: The year is going, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true.

Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Mervo’s BREAKFAST ALL DAY Coffee Shop DELICIOUS ADE BURGERS Open Mon - Sat 7- 3, Sun 8 - 2

289 Tranquille Road 250-554-4234

HOMEM

NOTHING ON OUR MENU OVER $10!

Centre for Seniors Information 9-A 1800 Tranquille Rd 778-470-6000 www.csikamloops.ca

12 n January 4, 2017

North Shore echo

On behalf of Cain’s Independent Grocer we would like to thank you for your support in 2016.

Wishing all the best for 2017.

Locally sourced products • More natural value health & wellness products • Meals to go • Fresh Juice Bar • Expanded Deli • Butcher on-site

Get your PC Plus card & start saving!

700 Tranquille Road • 250-312-3323