Kamloops Connector December 2019

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VOL. 28, NO. 8, DECEMBER 2019

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Passionate quilter has an eye for design

By Moneca Jantzen

Lauralyn Connor’s quilt ‘Posh Santa’. Pattern by Sew Kind of Wonderful.

Hear for the Holidays

There are truly gifted people among us and Lauralyn Connor is one such soul. The evidence of her talent is realized at the end of a needle—an “artful needle” in fact.

Lauralyn is a prolific and passionate quilter, recently transplanted to Kamloops from White Rock, B.C. to be closer to family. An obvious quick study, Lauralyn made the leap from traditional sewing to quilting in 2013, rapidly learning to create original patterns and mastering a long arm machine.

“I have sewn all my life, but had always said it was too much work to cut all that fabric up and put it… back together, until, in 2013, I saw Free Motion Quilting on Craftsy.com (a crafter’s website now known as “mybluprint. com”). I ordered a sewing machine — which at the time had a large deck off it and I thought it was the “long arm!”— something Lauralyn finds amusing in retrospect.

Lauralyn’s passion for quilting was so strong she was able to overcome

meetings we always have a “show and tell,” showing members our latest creations. It was here that people would see my quilts, and started asking me to quilt for them,” said Lauralyn.

Quilt shows are generally organized by Guilds and are meant to showcase the Guild members’ talents. These shows often have a Quilter Lauralyn Connor variety of quilted items for sale enabling them to produce and donate chronic arthritis pain quilts to hospitals, while awaiting a knee hospices and groups in replacement. She still the community. managed to quilt for “I just recently joined upwards of 18 hours the Sagebrush Quilters a day. A year into her Guild, and am also rejourney, Lauralyn joining the Kamloops invested in a secondModern Quilt Guild. I am hand long arm machine looking forward to being and also joined a local part of both of these quilters guild. guilds, and assisting our By 2015, Lauralyn had community in any way joined the Vancouver possible,” said Lauralyn.

Modern Quilt Guild, “I was overwhelmed by entered the guild’s the amount of service inaugural quilt show in work done by Sagebrush 2016 and walked away Quilters Guild. I am so with the Viewers Choice happy to be a part of Award. this wonderful group of “I was overwhelmed people.” and incredibly honored,” She recalls taking said Lauralyn.

See “Inspiration” on page 14 “While at the guild

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Happy Holidays from our family to yours

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December 2019

Page 3

Stories shared through art

“We are like a snowflake.

All different in our own beautiful way.” ~ Unknown

Written by Susan Wolf

Many artists will tell you they are but a vessel for creation. When they open to the process the work flows though them with a life of it’s own. It can heal the heart and take your creativity and life to places you never imagined. You don’t have to go to Paris or New York to find inspiring stories of art changing lives. These stories can be told by people in your neighbourhood. You probably have a story of your own to tell.

Many of the artists in the Kamloops Arts Council’s SMALL// works show can tell you stories of how their lives or art have evolved by chance, like Yvette Lehmann, who is best known in Kamloops as a yoga instructor.

After much coaxing and encouragement of other local artists, she is finally displaying her work in a proper gallery setting. “I never wanted to sell or believed anybody wanted to look at what I did. I just did it for my own personal amusement or therapy or healing.”

Yvette has always been creative with dance

and drawing as child, then oil painting in her 20’s, She returned to visual art 4 years ago after having a vision of painting landscapes during meditation. “Yoga is a huge part of my life.

Everything I do comes from my life which involves a lot of energy.

We can tap into this web of energy by sound, colours by visualization.

These objects that I’m creating are just another tool for someone to feel and be a part of it.”

Mike Alexander has been drawing and painting most of his life but began taking it seriously 4 years ago.

Bigger things started happening when he moved to Kamloops 6 months ago. “I need to make sure I can actually commit to what is being asked of me. It’s absolutely going the way I hoped.”

Mike normally works on very large canvases and SMALL//works is

the exact opposite of that. “I wanted to see what would happen if I used really small brushes and explored much smaller canvas.

I’m always interested in my indigenous identity and culture. On a smaller scale I’m able to get even closer to ideas of who I am and symbols of where I come from. It’s a pretty intimate, close up experience I’m really enjoying.”

His 8 year old stepdaughter, Eden, will have one of her rock cacti in SMALL//works. “We’ve gone out to collect some of those for her. She’s pretty proud of what she’s accomplished so far.”

Mike Kehler has been a regular at Art Exposed for the past 4 years, but this will be his first time in the SMALL//works show.

He is an experimental artist, incorporating found objects and wood working into his art and

will have a mix of work from acrylic pouring to 3D multi media pieces.

His work has evolved ever since he invested in a 3D printer, creating sculptures and intricate wall hangings, which he sells on Facebook’s Marketplace and in select stores throughout the region. He has a diverse body of work at different price points to appeal to a range of people. “I’m definitely outside the box.”

You can see where these artists journey has taken them, along with 50 other talented KAC members at the SMALL//works art show and sale at the Old Courthouse Cultural Centre until Saturday, December 22nd. There are over 350 works of original art, all with it’s own story that can be purchased just in time for to find that perfect gift for the holiday!

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Christmas At The Movies With Guests

Artworks by Yvette Lehmann (bottom left) and Mike Alexander.

Submitted

Kamloops Thompson Honour Choir Rachel Casponi, Director and the SD 73 String Orchestra

Saturday, November 30 7pm Sunday, December 1 3pm Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle 1550 Tranquille Road Tickets at the Door: $20 Adults $10 Secondary & University Students Free Children 12 & Under Don Bennett �t----� Conductor

December 2019

Page 4

The giving season

Wishing you a happy holiday season and all the best for 2020, from our family to yours.

Ah. The season of giving (and gratitude) is upon us.

As I write this in the lead up to the holiday season, I am also packing for a wee 7-day fitness retreat to Tulum, Mexico.

This trip represents a massive gift received from a dear friend that passed away almost two years ago. Not only would the trip not be possible without her generosity, I also owe her the inspiration for it (“Yes, Shirley, I’m trying…”) and I’m also taking the trip in her honour. Mexico was definitely on her bucket list. I know in my heart of hearts that she’ll be there with me in spirit and I only wish she was doing the travelling herself—well, for obvious reasons…

As the beneficiary of someone’s unconditional largesse, it makes me contemplate ways I myself can be more giving in the near and distant future.

As a single parent, I didn’t have the time or energy to volunteer as much as I would have liked while my daughter was growing up. Now that she’s grown and I’m not working crazy hours trying to keep all the proverbial balls in the air, I want to find ways to give back.

I do take some satisfaction in having worked in the newspaper industry throughout my career; something that has given me the opportunity to contribute behind the scenes to countless causes.

Newspapers typically play an integral role in many efforts that make a community healthier, more connected and dynamic.

I also did a huge amount of volunteering in my youth while involved with Katimavik and Canada World Youth, but it’s definitely time to get back at it in earnest.

I watch with admiration as so many others around me volunteer relentlessly. My friend who facilitated my upcoming trip to Mexico happened to be an amazing and committed volunteer in various endeavours. There is also another prime example in this office—a woman whose schedule would terrify most. I know better than to try to compete with that, but the least I can do is emulate their example.

I do aspire to do more. I don’t have a bustling business with deep pockets as some people do, but I do have some extra time and hopefully some useful skills to share.

As it stands right now, I am waiting for my police check to be completed so I can participate in Operation Red Nose for the first time. I’m such a night owl that I may as well get out there and do some good during the Christmas season. After that, we’ll see what else seems like a good fit.

One thing I do know for sure, Kamloops is full of ultra-generous folks. We are so fortunate to live in a community that seems to have an endless capacity to give. Time and time again I marvel at how Kamloops seems to come through for so many worthy causes throughout the year including the perennial Christmas Cheer Fund— this year supporting the Kamloops Brain Injury Association, Out of the Cold, The Mustard Seed, and the Y Women’s Emergency Shelter. I will be sure to keep a few hundred Pesos to hand over upon my return.

We at The Kamloops Connector wish all of our wonderful readers, advertisers, contributors and co-workers a happy and healthy holiday season.

Feliz navidad!

The

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December 2019

Page 5 T for 10% DISCOUN Students U TR Seniors &

tive, Cosmetic ra to s e R , e v ti Preventa

Bonnie Klohn, KFPC Policy and Finance Lead Recently, myself, several colleagues, and a representative from the City of Kamloops attended a workshop by Wayne Roberts, who is one of the founding members of the Toronto Food Policy Council. Full nerd disclosure here, it is one of my greatest pleasures to spend time with people who also know the ins and outs of food policy work, so it was a joy to hear Wayne’s thoughts and musings on the future of food. The Toronto Food Policy Council was founded at the same time as the Kamloops Food Policy Council around 1995. We share a long history of negotiating policy advocacy, program development and the creation of partnerships with the intent of holding a vision for a food system

that is healthy, local, accessible, and whole.

Wayne encouraged us to think about food as a lever that can be used to address other issues: environment, social and economic.

In terms of how food can be used as a lever for environmental outcomes, we know that gardens in urban centres provide valuable ecosystem services such as fresh air, rainwater retention and a sense of community ownership over the space that results in less littering. In Kamloops, we have many beautiful community gardens that host pollinators, provide greenspace, and produce fresh veggies for those who tend them. Further, 1 in 6 car trips are related to delivering or purchasing food. By creating food systems like community gardens, that are woven into neighbourhoods, we can impact issues like traffic and congestion, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.

Food brings us together, and in a world of polarization and political divide, breaking bread with

Kohlrabi Pickles Adapted from a Cultures for Health recipe (www. culturesforhealth.com/learn/recipe/lacto-fermentation-recipes/lacto-fermented-kohlrabi-picklesdill-mustard) .

Ingredients: • 1 handful of fresh dill • 2 Tbsp. salt • 1½-2 cups of water, as needed • 3 medium kohlrabi, peeled and cut into spears • Cloves of garlic cut in half Instructions: 1. Place fresh dill and garlic in the bottom of a quart jar.

2. Combine water and salt; stir to dissolve.

3. Pack kohlrabi spears on top of the herbs and spices, leaving 1½ inches headspace.

4. Cover vegetables with brine, adding more water as needed to cover, but leaving 1 inch headspace.

5. If necessary, weigh the vegetables down under the brine.

6. Cover each jar with a tight lid, airlock lid, or coffee filter secured with a rubber band.

7. Culture at room temperature (15-20°C is preferred) until desired flavor and texture are achieved.

If using a tight lid, burp daily to release excess pressure.

8. Once the vegetables are finished, put a tight lid on the jar and move to cold storage. The flavor will continue to develop.

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a group of people can be the glue that we need to make inroads into social cohesion. There is a loneliness epidemic in our society — more seniors and people of all ages are eating alone than ever before. Programs like the Mount Paul Community Food Centre, as well as the Kamloops Food Policy Council potlucks, are a great opportunity to celebrate eating together as a community. adrienne maree brown, the author of Emergent Strategies, a book I am loving reading right now, quoted Grace Lee Boggs, who said, “Building community is to the collective as spiritual practice is to the individual.”

I believe that food has a key role in this vital and sacred act of building community. Wayne reiterated this idea that being in touch with food and each other around the table is part of selfactualization; it’s more than nutrients, food is about bonding.

Finally, food can be a catalyst for a healthy local economy. The concept of economic multipliers relates to how money cycles through a community.

When you spend money at the farmer’s market, the farmer is likely to take the money you gave her and use it to purchase something else in the community, and the benefit of the money to

the community is therefore “multiplied.” When you spend money at a big box store, some of it goes to employees, but much of the profit is returned to shareholders. These types of transactions have a lower multiplier effect.

Food has an economic multiplier of 1:5, which is the highest among all the major industries. For every dollar you spend on local food, the benefit to the community will be five-fold. The Kamloops Food Policy Council is working to support local food businesses in processing and packaging local food that can be sold throughout the winter, and developing speciality products that increase our local food economy.

In summary, food is a key ingredient for how our culture is created.

Wayne highlighted for us the ways that food can be a lever and a catalyst for making a community more livable, friendly, economically viable, and green. Food not only creates culture, but can be culture too. To learn more about how the Kamloops food network is creating a culture of change in the food system, please come to our monthly potlucks, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on the first Wednesday of every month (except January), at the Mount Paul Community Food Centre, 140 Laburnum Street.

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December 2019

Page 6

Consider these financial gifts for your grandchildren

If you’re a grandparent yourself, you already know the pleasures of having grandchildren in your life. And like so

many grandparents, you may be looking at ways to help your grandchildren get the most out of their lives.

Perhaps the most valuable thing you could give to your grandkids is the gift of education.

Consider this: Over a lifetime, post secondary graduates earn, on average, about $1 million more than those without a degree according to the Census Bureau. So, putting money toward your grandchildren’s post secondary education is a

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Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund

Season's Greetings Lili A Seery

good investment.

Furthermore, your grandchildren may well need the help, because getting an education is expensive and costs continue to rise.

Consequently, you may want to contribute to an RESP. You have several options for how the money can be invested and contribution limits were increased when the new federal budget was introduced. All withdrawals are free from federal income taxes, provided the money is used for qualified education expenses.

If you name one grandchild as a beneficiary of an RESP and that grandchild decides not

to go to college or university, you can switch the account to another grandchild — in other words, you maintain control of the money for the life of the account.

Another common way to invest money for a grandchild’s education is through the use of an “in trust” account. An “intrust’ account is an informal trust

because there is no trust deed. However, it’s important to note that once gifted, this money no longer belongs to the donor.

If you put money into either a formal trust or an in-trust account for a minor grandchild, all income will be taxed in your hands until the child reaches age 18.

Any capital gains will be taxed to the child regardless of their age. This is why

Financial Advisor

investments that generate capital gains are ideally suited to this type of arrangement.

For this type of arrangement to work properly, care must be taken to ensure that the in-trust account is set up properly and complies with the applicable tax rules. Whichever option is right for your family, there are a variety of opportunities for you to give something to the grandchildren who give so much to you.

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The holiday season is a good time to reflect on the past year and make plans for the new one.

Weddings, funerals, births, graduations, holidays – being prepared factors into every one of these life stages. Everyone has a story about a relative that died without a Will, leaving the family with extra expenses, aggravation and time spent sorting out the deceased’s estate.

It is a good idea to consider the events of the coming year and be sure

you have the appropriate documents and plans in place.

If you have a holiday planned, make sure you have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date. Obtain medical insurance that covers you when you travel and make sure you disclose every ailment you have sought medical treatment for in the past 2 years. If you forget to disclose something, it will very likely invalidate your insurance and if you get hurt or sick while outside of Canada, you will be personally responsible for those medical costs.

If you have a surgery planned, make sure you have a valid Power of Attorney and Representation Agreement and that it is available to the person you have appointed to deal with your financial and legal matters or make your care decisions

in the event your recovery does not go as anticipated.

If you are planning to buy or sell a house, make sure you have at least two pieces of government issued identification with your full legal name as it appears on your land title documents. Not all identification is issued with a full legal name, as often middle names are omitted or just have an initial. Also, if you have been recently married or divorced, you may not have gotten around to changing over all of your identification. Without proper identification you

risk holding up the sale or purchase.

If a new addition to the family is expected in the coming year, either with a wedding, adoption or a birth, it is paramount to ensure that your Will reflects those changes. Having an up to date Will is the best way to protect your family from additional hardship if you were to die unexpectedly.

A prepaid estate planning package from a local law firm is an appropriate and practical wedding or baby shower gift. With the added responsibilities and expenses that a new family must deal with, it takes one thing off their list of things to plan and prepare for.

Not all of life can go as we plan, but with a little forethought and planning the unexpected events can be more manageable and less uncertain.

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December 2019

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Protecting your floors this winter

The holiday season brings family and friends together for many unforgettable moments that can last a lifetime.

But when January rolls around all you want to be left with are those memories and not some unsightly reminders on your flooring in the way of scratches or water damage. This increase in home traffic compiled with winter beginning means there is more of a chance of gravel, salt, and melting snow

making its way inside.

While, flooring today is as resilient as ever here are a few tips that will help make sure it keeps on looking great for years to come.

• Always remove your shoes while walking inside your home! Rocks and other debris can get stuck beneath your shoe, causing scratches and dents in the hardwood.

• For high traffic areas, consider an area rug or a quality mat. Mats are ideal is your front entryway or back door.

Not only does this protect your flooring from debris, but it also captures any melting snow coming off your jacket or shoes.

Plus, an area rug can be a great decor accent for a space.

• Remember, water and wood do not mix!

If there ever is a spill onto your hardwood, clean it up immediately.

Having a mat beneath drying winter clothing will help from any water puddles from forming and potentially causing damage.

• Having the right tools around will save you when the time is right. For sweeping, choose a broom with polypropylene or acrylic bristles to prevent scratches. For vacuuming, attach a brush or felt-type head for the best cleanup results.

Following these few tips will make sure your floors stays beautiful this holiday season and for many years to come!

If you aren’t sure which cleaning product is best for your flooring type, or have questions in general, give us a call at Nufloors or stop by. We wish you a great holiday season and look forward to assisting you in 2020!

Are you ready to deck the halls?

The calendar flipped to November and we are surrounded with Christmas advertising already. Automatically the brain kicks into dreaming about Christmas, snow and holiday festivities.

I started thinking about the economy, grocery and gift lists and wondered how a professional organizer can help the average person during the holiday season. The thing that comes to mind, as it is so important and can take a lot of stress out of the Christmas season is… Budgeting! I know no one wants to talk about budgeting (well, besides my accountant…), but it can really affect your holiday cheer if you can stay within a budget.

Every year I sit down with a pencil, paper and calculator and make a quick list of all the people we need to purchase gifts for and how many meals we need to prepare for any gatherings at home.

Keep in mind, the list will change from year to year as people get older,

move away or just plain decide not to exchange gifts. As well, if you are entertaining, your grocery and spirit bill will increase, so consider potlucks to cut down on costs also. Put a dollar figure somewhere on the page and decide what amount will be allocated to each person and/ or event. This will be a working paper with no doubt a bit of revision— adding and subtracting several times over until it looks right to you.

Unfortunately, that was the easy part. The hard part is sticking to the dollar amount allocated and staying within your limit. A great way to stay on budget is to buy items that are on sale or maybe purchase gift cards. Gift cards are especially great for Grandparents who may have no idea what the younger generation would like. Another

benefit of GC’s is that most items go on sale after Christmas and then the recipients can love more for less! All materialistic stuff aside, don’t underestimate the value of homemade gifts or baking or preserves.

We had a great season of canning this year so good chance we may lose a few jars, oh and I’ll share a bottle or two of my homemade wine I’m sure! There is nothing better than homemade gifts or treats that can add a nice personal touch, especially in a time when life can be too busy to slow down, it is the perfect gift to show you truly care. Good food, friends and family bring the warmest of memories for years to come. It truly isn’t what’s under the tree, but what is in the heart. Merry Christmas from Everything Organized!

Merry Christmas!

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December 2019

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A rejuvenating experience

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HTHOMPSON VALLEY STARSH Square & Round Dance Club

I want to take this opportunity to thank a very special couple for the patience and support they extend towards my husband and me on our journey to health and wellness, as well as to plug their passion and dedication to square dancing.

I retired from teaching a year ago having no masterplan for my newfound freedom and time, although I maintained a commitment to lifelong learning. It was with some trepidation mixed with excitement that I convinced my husband to register for six weeks of square dance lessons, an activity about which we both knew nothing. At times, it was trying as he accompanied me begrudgingly, claiming it was my ‘thing’ and not his. After our lessons ended and his attitude didn’t seem to ameliorate, with exasperation, I retorted that I would free him of any obligation he felt to drive me, but to my surprise he responded that he liked square dancing and wanted to continue. Since then, I

have heard few words of discontentment and we have now put many kilometres on the odometer to attend dances throughout BC, Alberta and Washington in order to gain more expertise.

It was thanks to Sandy and Merv Meyer’s teaching style that we persevered and were motivated to travel every week from our home in Ashcroft to Kamloops. Sandy and Merv call and cue at Desert Gardens Senior Centre and at their home studio for the Thompson Valley Stars, the square dance club we joined last October. For over a dozen years together, they have spearheaded keeping square dancing alive in the Kamloops area by offering lessons to interested new dancers like us or to those coming back into the fold after a period of absence. They always greet members with a smile and ‘yellow rock’, a warm welcoming hug that many square dancers eventually appropriate. They are able to connect personally with every club member and keep fastidious records, including surveys that help

them determine the most effective ways to promote square dancing. Sandy and Merv have been recognized for their outstanding service to the square dance community and we are so fortunate that we are members of their club.

We knew nothing about square dancing when we first started and only realized its benefits as we grew to embrace it.

Square dancing compels participants to think, to move, to socialize. Both couples and singles can participate and there is no mandated dress code.

Sandy and Merv’s music selections are modern and upbeat. If you are looking for an experience that rejuvenates: where you make new friends, feel great and have a lot of fun, I strongly recommend that you give square dancing a go.

Another set of new dancer lessons will be starting up on January 9, 2020. Call 250-376-5636, or email Sandy and Merv Meyer at meyerdance@ telus.net to obtain more information or to register.

Submitted by Gloria Mertens

The Centre for Seniors Information (CSI Kamloops) is ramping up their annual Operation: Secret Santa project for low income, isolated seniors.

They identify seniors that struggle around the holidays with no family that live close. For most of the seniors in this program this is the only gift they receive all year.

Please consider this project when you’re out shopping this year. Even the smallest donation makes a big difference!

They are looking for community donations like: shampoo, lotion, soap, razors, socks, coffee, gift cards, kitchen items,

scarves, slippers, gloves, books, coffee mugs, picture frames, manicure sets, large piece puzzles, crossword books, blankets, etc.

If this project is something you would like

to contribute to this year, they will be accepting donations at the Brock Activity Centre, 9A 1800 Tranquille Road, until December 16th.

For more information, contact Brandi Allen at CSI Kamloops and discover one of the many ways you can get involved! Phone 778-470-6000 or email brandi@csikamloops.ca.

Gloria and Al Mertens

Operation: Secret Santa project

Navigating the Holidays in Grief

YOU CAN LEARN WEST COAST SQUARE DANCE IN 10 WEEKS FOR $60 Starts Thursday Jan. 9, 2020 • 7-8:30pm Desert Gardens, 540 Seymour St.

- Fun & Fitness -

SINGLES AND COUPLES WELCOME

Music, Dancing, Friendship Great Exercise for Body & Mind! thompsonvalleystars.squaredance.bc.ca FOR INFO CALL MERV & SANDY

250-376-5636 meyerdance@telus.net

As we head into the darker days of winter, the grieving process can become overwhelming. The shorter days and cooler weather may make us feel like hibernating and cocooning indoors. During this time of year, there is the added pressure of holiday celebrations and social pressures to embrace joy and traditions. Yet, when you have experienced the death of a family member or dear friend, your emotions may be all over the map. In grief, feelings can fluctuate between numbness, emptiness, despair, anger, fear, and guilt to name a few. The build-up to major holidays like Christmas can magnify emotions leading to apprehension, anxiety and fear.

Thus, the need to celebrate may feel like an unwelcome intrusion

when grieving.

The best way to navigate grief during the holidays is to plan ahead; face grief head-on by acknowledging your loss; talk openly about your feelings of grief with people who are caring, supportive and nonjudgmental, find creative ways to honour the person who has died, recognize grief can trigger a multitude of different conflicting emotions. By acknowledging your emotions, you can create room for choice and recognize the grieving process is uniquely different to each person.

We grieve because of the profoundness of love and the depth of our loss. Often it is hard to adequately express our grief in words. Come “craft” with Kamloops Hospice to express

your grief and love. Along with participating in a grief crafting workshop, you can gain strategies for how to Navigate the Holidays.

Kamloops Hospice will be offering two crafting workshops in December. The first workshop, December 7, 2019 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.) is a crafting workshop to support families who have experienced a death of a loved one.

The second crafting workshop, December 11, 2019, (10 a.m.

– 12:00 p.m.) is for adults who have experienced the death of a loved one. To register, please contact Carol at Kamloops Hospice (carol@kamloopshospice.com) or by phone 250-372-1336.

December 2019

Page 9

By Marilyn Brown

Christmas in Mariposa

By Jamie Lamb Heritage House Publishing Company, 2019, 230 pages.

Available through the TNRD library system, in e-book format, and in bookstores.

Christmas in Mariposa is a sequence of short stories about key people in the author’s childhood in the small lakeside town of Mariposa, Ontario.

Readers may be familiar with the name Mariposa.

Canadian humourist Stephen Leacock in Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town (1912) situated his stories in the town of Mariposa. Jamie Lamb pays homage to Sunshine Sketches with his updated, “lightly fictionalized” account of his own. Each of the 13 stories is connected to the Christmas theme. True to Stephen Leacock’s perceptive observations of humanity, presented with a deft turn of phrase and a warmth towards all and sundry, Jamie Lamb introduces the reader to his neighbourhood and its inhabitants, the mighty and the humble.

As we accompany him on his rounds, he entertains and bemuses with characters and details from Christmases past.

Take, for example, the Mariposa mayor, Wilbur R. Campbell – not a man of common sense, apparently.

When the mayor’s daughter is bored by summer holidays, and muses about what fun it would be to celebrate Christmas in July, the mayor is true to his reputation and pounces on the idea with enthusiasm. (No matter that he’s had some eyebrow-raising projects in the past that went amiss – for example, threatening Ottawa to take the city out of Confederation, with himself as Prime Minister, of course, albeit with continued allegiance to the Queen.

Western Canada Theatre continues its family holiday musical tradition with The Sound of Music, November 28 to December 10 at the Sagebrush Theatre. Tickets at wctlive.ca.

Christmas Artisan Market & Tea Saturday, November 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 100 Lorne Street.

Thompson Valley Orchestra presents Christmas at the Movies at 7pm on Saturday, November 30 and 3pm on Sunday, December 1 at Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle, 1550 Tranquille Rd. Tickets at the door. $20 adults, $10 students, Children 12 and under are free.

Kamloops Hospice Celebrate-alife memory tree, craft sale, raffle from December 1 to 22, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Northills Shopping Centre.

Kamloops Old Time Fiddlers are holding their annual Christmas Dinner & Dance on Saturday, December 7, at the Brock Activity Centre, 9A - 1800 Tranquille Rd. Gathering at 6pm.

Dinner at 6:30pm. Followed by dancing to the Old Time Fiddlers. Tickets are $40 ea. For tickets, call 250-319-3680.

RIH Retirees Christmas Luncheon- Wednesday, December 11, 11:30 to 1:00 p.m, CSI Activity Center, Brock Shopping Center, 9A – 1800 Tranquile Road. Menu consists of soup, sandwiches, dessert, tea/coffee. Cost is $12. Cash or credit/debit cards with “TAP” feature only. RSVP by December 3rd to Marnie Strong at 250-828-2724.

Let’s Dance with the Kamloops Social Club - Saturday, December 14 with

The new coat-of-arms would feature a corgi, after all!) The celebratory Christmas baseball game turns into pandemonium after the town tough guy objects to being called a “jolly old elf” – a phrase he links to something his ex-wife said about him.

It doesn’t help that the Three Wise Men, wearing rocket backpacks, parachute out of the airplane, but land in the middle of the baseball melee, all of it caught on live TV, including the “colourful” language.

The author describes the closeness with his best friend, Paul, and the freedom of that time for kids to roam and explore all day on their own, the rule being that they had to be home by dinner.

There are adventures and mishaps galore, as well as more sombre moments. One winter

live music by Strange Brew, held at the Brock Activity Centre, 1800 Tranquille Rd, 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets $10 at the door.

Looking for a place to dance the night away on New Year’s Eve that isn’t too loud, too crowded or too expensive and that plays dance music from your era (50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s)? Join us on December 31, 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at the Brock Activity Centre. Live music

by Bob King. Tickets $40 each ($35 for club members) include a light cold buffet, desserts, party favours, great door prizes, sparkling wine at midnight, 50/50. Call Bonnie (250-319-8510), Trish (250-318-7964) or Terry (250319-1546).

Join Mount Paul United Church for a Blue Christmas Service on Thursday December 19 at 7 p.m., at 140 Laburnum Street. When loss, grief, depression, pain or hopelessness fill Christmas...our church is offering non-denominational, non-traditional services of hope and healing. A time of reflection for adults which names and acknowledges our troubles in life and also names the Source of Hope. All are Welcome!

Ukranian dance hosted by Kamloops Social Club on January 18, 2020 at the Brock Activity Centre, 9A – 1800 Tranquille Road. Cocktails 5:00 p.m., dinner 5:30 p.m., dance 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Music performed by Sleepless Nights. $25 (members), $35 (non-members). Contact Rudi Reul or Carol Candy.

The 2020 Kamloops Kidney Walk is scheduled for Sept. 20.

he and Paul exultantly skate their newly frozen patch of lake, and unexpectedly see beneath the ice a Cessna 172. As both boys have been known to embellish a story, it is foreseeable that his grandmother and even the police are skeptical. James’s father believes him, and that subtly changes their relationship. Two bodies are found in the plane.

James Lamb tells with particular delight the stories revolving around the 10:30 Club – older men in the community who meet for fellowship and coffee every day, for years. These stories and others are told with wit, sometimes (low) humour, and always with loving amusement. He follows the wisdom of his parents, both of whom served their country in WWII. After the war his

father was a newspaper editor and his mother a reporter in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

His mom found her job “knocked the strictness out of her religion. She kept the forgiveness and compassion components but dropped the adhereor-burn parts.” Theirs was a happy marriage and their family joyful.

Their Christmas traditions, as unique as any family’s, put a smile

on one’s face.

James Lamb has been involved in news reporting in many capacities and in many communities, including Ottawa, as bureau chief, Vancouver, as a columnist, and Prince George. He was a regular contributor to CBC’s Morningside and to various magazines. He has a keen interest in naval matters.

x

Remember your loved ones while supporting Kamloops Hospice Association

NORTHHILLS SHOPPING CENTRE

9:30AM – 5:30PM

December 2019

Page 10 “The thing about Christmas is that it almost doesn’t matter what mood you’re in or what kind of year you’ve had — it’s a fresh start.” ~ Kelly Clarkson

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

Eagles, osprey and hawks, oh my!

DECEMBER 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21 at 7 pm DECEMBER 8 & 15 at 4 pm

Our “Spirit of Christmas” excursions have become a local holiday tradition. Take a whimsical one-hour ride through the wintry Kamloops night and experience the magic of an old-fashioned Christmas.

kamloops birdwatch

Merry Christmas!

Naomi Birkenhead

RESERVATIONS & INFORMATION:

KAMRAIL.COM

250.374.2141 | kamrail.com | #3-510 Lorne Street, Kamloops, BC Canada V2C 1W3

Call from anywhere in the city of Kamloops and we’ll drive you and your vehicle safely home.

8 P.M. – 3 A.M.

Make this your last call before you hit the road:

NOV. 29, 30, DEC. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 31

250-372-5110

ANNUAL FAMILY FAVOURITE

2019 2020 kamloopssymphony.com

Michael Newnham, Guest Conductor

christmas

with the kso

14&15

DECEMBER

Quartom vocal quartet

Majestic. It is the one word often used to describe the fierce predators gliding effortlessly on invisible slipstreams. From their airborne hunting post these regal creatures hone in on their unsuspecting prey using their remarkable monocular/binocular vision.

Our ability to differentiate and distinguish between species is not as remarkable. Birds of Prey in this region fall into six categories: Buteo, Accipiter, Falcon, Eagle, Osprey and Harrier (or Circus).

There are specific characteristics to each that can help our underdeveloped human eyes determine and narrow down their identity.

With the drop in temperature we see an increase in our Buteo population. Alternating between perching on the lights illuminating the winding Hillside Drive bordering Kenna Cartwright Park, and soaring over it’s immaculate grounds, Red Tailed, and Rough Legged Hawks are two of the most commonly

seen. Their long, broad wings and short, fan shaped tails are adapted to flight over open plains. Red Tailed and Rough Legged (has feathered legs) are aptly named after their most identifying markers.

Accipiter characterizes a longer tail, with short rounded wings built more for maneuvering through forested hunting grounds. I often see our two resident Accipiters; The Sharpshinned and Coopers Hawk, adeptly swooping and weaving through dense thickets of trees in many areas of our city. Their streaked and spotted bellies provide excellent camouflage while roosting and in flight.

The slender bodies of the Accipiter are similar to that of the Falcon Family. We are lucky to boast two of the smallest and cunning in this area; American Kestrel, and Merlin. Built for speed and literally tearing its prey from the skies with razor sharp talons, these tiny Falcons can sever the necks of their prey in midair. Kestrels are easily identified by the black lines running vertically down its face. Merlin’s are best identified by their long, slender tail banded black and grey, though they can often be mistaken for nighthawks (which you can find catching bugs in the dusk hours around Mac island.) They have

distinct white wing bars, and despite their name, do not belong to the Raptor family.

Harriers are our Raptor member known for its white markings.

A massive white band across its rump, along with his low teeter totter glide over fields and open grasslands, allow for easy identification of our one and only Northern Harrier.

They also have facial discs similar to owls.

Unlike their fellow Hawks, Harriers hunt more by sound rather than sight as their food source consists mainly of mice and other small mammals.

The diet of an Eagle or Osprey on the other hand, is comprised of about 90 percent fish.

Both these birds are commonly spotted perched along the river, or soaring high above searching and waiting for its moment to strike.

Eagles are not opposed to an easy meal, and given their size in the predator world, they often succeed. It takes five years for an immature Bald Eagle to molt its juvenile colouring and achieve the distinguished white head. Osprey appear to have a crested head at times, due to the dark mask around its eyes which help for hunting prey against a reflective surface. Ospreys are also migratory birds and will often winter in South or Central America.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR

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Saturday • 1:00pm Noran Masterworks

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Young Osprey in Pine Park.

Photo: Naomi Birkenhead

December 2019

Page 11

Ring in the festive season at Christmas with the KSO The Kamloops Symphony Orchestra invites you to join them at their annual celebration of the festive season, Christmas with the KSO. There are two performances of this classic holiday concert; Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 15 at 2 p.m. in Sagebrush Theatre.

Christmas with the KSO features familiar festive favourites and heartwarming melodies that are sure to delight the whole family, presented with a Quebecois twist.

Joining the KSO on stage is the Quebec-based vocal quartet Quartom.

Formed by four charming and charismatic singers, the quartet’s insightful interpretations, mutual affection, and contagious good humour has charmed audiences across Canada and throughout Europe and Asia. Quartom will be singing several sparkling holiday hits along with traditional Quebec carols.

Leading the KSO is guest conductor Michael Newnham, who is known for his intense and inspiring conducting style.

He is presently the music director of Symphony New Brunswick, Camerata NB, and the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra.

He has received several awards for conducting, including the Turzanski Award for his services in promoting Polish music and culture in Canada.

Audience members can get a behind the scenes

look at the orchestra preparing for the concert with the first Open Dress Rehearsal of the 19/20 season on Saturday, December 14 at 1 p.m. in Sagebrush Theatre.

This rehearsal is open to the public at no cost, sponsored by BDO. Tickets are $45, $42 Seniors, $10 Youth (under 19), $15 KSOundcheck Members, and can be purchased from Kamloops Live! Box Office at 250-374-5483 or www. kamloops live.ca.

Guest artists, Quartom vocal quartet (L-R: Julien Patenaude, Philippe Martel, Antonio Figueroa and Benoit Le Blanc).

Christmas wine sale at Shuswap wineries Five Shuswap Wineries celebrate their Annual Open House and Christmas Wine Sale on Saturday December 7th and Sunday December 8th. The wineries will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the two-day weekend. This will be a special Shuswap experience for wine enthusiasts.

Tasting rooms will be open to enjoy holiday cheer and wine tasting. Winery owners and staff will be on hand in the tasting rooms to help wine lovers who seek help and recommendations to stock their wine cellars for the upcoming holidays. The many awards won by the various wineries is indicative of the superb quality of their wines, and the popularity of Shuswap wines. The Shuswap wineries are located in a unique climate ideally suited to grow cold-climate grapes – very warm days with cool nights providing a perfect setting to create superb, crisp, aromatic whites and distinctive mid-to-full-bodied reds.

Several wineries will continue to be open additional weekends leading up to Christmas. Check websites for more information.

All five wineries are conveniently located close to the Trans Canada Highway: Celista Estate Winery on the North Shore of Shuswap Lake, just past Scotch Creek Provincial Park. www. celistawine.com 250-955-8600.

Larch Hills Winery a few minutes

south of Salmon Arm, just off Highway 97. www.larchhillswinery.com 250832-0155.

Marionette Winery on the east side of Salmon Arm and close to the Trans Canada. www.marionettewinery. com 250-832-7702.

Ovino Winery a few minutes south of Salmon Arm. www.ovinowinery.com 250-832-8463.

Recline Ridge Winery at Tappen, a few minutes off the Trans Canada. www.reclinewinery.com 250-835-2212.

Come for that special Shuswap experience, enjoy holiday cheer and wine tasting. For more information check out the website www. shuswapwineries .ca

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December 2019

Page 12 SPONSORED CONTENT

Women helping women

Investing in a Walk-in Tub The cost of a walk-in tub Is a wall-in tub something you need in your home? Does a walk-in tub offer the types of benefits that you need or want to plan for?

Can you afford to install into your bathroom?

Furthermore, is a walk-in tub an investment worth making?

The cost of a Safe Step Walk-In Tub should always be looked at as a valuable investment; an investment into extended-term, independent living and improved physical and mental health. Therefore, how can one put a price tag on those life-changing benefits?

What influences the cost of a walk-in tub?

There are a variety of factors that will influence the final cost. When you contact Safe Step Tubs seeking information about a walk-in tub, you’ll receive a free, no-obligation, in-home consultation with an expert who will explain the installation process, health benefits and financing options.

When a Safety Specialist comes to your home, he or she will measure the bathroom space and tub/shower dimensions and look at the existing electrical and plumbing specifications and provide you with a quote good for one year.

Is a Walk-In Tub the best financial option to meet my needs?

Do you wonder if a

walk-in tub is a wise financial investment for you to make? After all, there are a number of bathroom assistance devices available that can provide similar accessibility for those who need it most. Some of these items include: • Grab bars • Safety rails • Chair lifts • Transfer Benches • Bath steps • Hand-held shower • Grab poles • Bathing safety cushions • Bath lifts • Bath tub cut away These accessories are designed to make bathing in a traditional bathtub easier, but they fail to address many other concerns for people with mobility challenges.

The North Shore Business Association will be collecting gently used purses filled with all of the necessities and maybe a bit of fun for a woman in need this Christmas. The purses will be dropped off at the Women’s Shelter on December 13.

“We all have a few purses that we just don’t use,” explains Patti

Phillips, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at North Shore Business Association.

“Make it a special gift for a woman in need. Fill it with all the items women need and they may not have. Women often get to the shelter with only the clothes on their back.

Last year the shelter gave the filled purses on Christmas morning.“

Plus the cost can climb significantly depending on the installation required.

All these items can become bulky and obtrusive and they reduce the amount of functional space available plus they can even create some potential safety challenges if not installed

properly.

Installation cost There are many factors that can probably raise or lower the cost of installation, and you may discover that with the right discounts, savings and finance options, adapting your bathtub to make it accessible for your changing needs

If you would like to help, please drop off your filled purse to Patti at the NSBIA office, 115 Tranquille Road (across from Butler RV). Please call Patti at 250-3762411 or email patti@ nsbia.com to arrange a drop off time. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Monday to Friday.

might be more affordable than you think.

Start by contacting Safe Step walk-in tubs today at 1-877-452-3413 and schedule a free, in-home consultation and above all to discover the many ways that a walk-in tub can be an affordable option to fit within your budget.

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December 2019

Page 13

Daily Service to

Vancouver & Kelowna

Let Ebus connect you to friends & family during the holidays!

Vancouver <> Kamloops Daily Daily Fri-Sun Daily

Fri/Sun Daily

Vancouver 8:00 15:30 18:00

Surrey 08:40 16:15 18:40

Kamloops 8:15 12:00 16:30

Merritt* 9:05* 17:20*

Abbotsford 09:20 16:55 19:20

Hope* 10:15* 18:30*

Chilliwack* - Arrive 09:50* 17:25* 19:50*

Chilliwack*- Arrive 11:00* 14:40* 19:15*

Kamloops <> Salmon Arm <> Kelowna

Chilliwack* - Depart 10:00* 17:35* 19:50*

Chilliwack* - Depart 11:10* 14:40* 19:25*

Hope* 10:35* 18:10* -

Abbotsford 11:40 15:10 19:55

Merritt* 11:45* 19:20* -

Kamloops 12:35 20:10 22:30

Surrey 12:20 15:50 20:30

Vancouver 12:50 16:30 20:55

Daily Daily

Kamloops 06:30 14:00

Chase* 14:40*

Sorrento* 14:50*

Salmon Arm 15:20

Enderby* 15:45*

Armstrong* 15:55*

Vernon 08:00 16:10

Kelowna 08:35 16:50

Daily Daily

Kelowna 12:50 21:00

Vernon 13:20 21:30

Armstrong* 13:35* -

Enderby* 13:45* -

Salmon Arm 14:10 -

Sorrento* 14:30* -

Chase* 14:40* -

Kamloops 15:25 23:00

*By Advanced Reservation Only

1-877-769-3287

MYEBUS.CA

December 2019

Page 14

Inspiration is everywhere Continued from page 1 over 30 quilting classes through the aforementioned website where she learned to piece and quilt in about six months time. She embraced the art of Long Arm Quilting which has required a personal investment into her own 10’-14’ machine along with a variety of other specialized pieces of equipment and supplies.

When asked how long it takes to become an expert quilter Lauralyn states “I figure that once

you have quilted 100 quilts, you pretty much have it figured out and know what you are doing, but there will always be new things to learn and see, new quilts to make, new fabric coming out, new tools to buy!”

Lauralyn has turned her talents into a healthy business with The Artful Needle where she designs patterns, maintains an Etsy store, creates custom quilts for customers, and offers lessons.

“I enjoy doing private lessons, for all range

of quilting abilities, or small groups in my studio, as well as teaching within my guild and community,” said Lauralyn.

As for inspiration, Lauralyn finds it everywhere.

“Often the fabric in the quilts will show me the direction in which I want to quilt. For patterns and designs I read at a lot of fine art books that always provide wonderful ideas. Sometimes it’s a picture in the newspaper, a shape, the floor in an art gallery, pattern on

Lauralyn’s quilt ‘Sewology’ by Pen and Paper Patterns. a tablecloth, a flower in my garden… (or even the internet). Inspiration is everywhere, everyday,” said Lauralyn.

“I used to do quite a bit of painting. I now enjoy working with paint or dye on quilts, to design a unique, one-of-a-kind piece,” said Lauralyn.

Lauralyn usually does create a few items specifically with a Christmas theme each year but she isn’t one to produce dozens of the same design.

“I rarely duplicate items, except at Christmas as I usually Continued on page 15

Winter travel kit Submitted by Gary Miller, Retired Service Advisor, River City Nissan

Happy Holidays

from the Village of Chase

May you be blessed with goodwill, peace, family and friends this holiday season.

25TH ANNUAL CHASE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

Friday, December 6 BEST DECORATED BUSINESS 3 pm to 5 pm SANTA CLAUS PARADE 5 pm from Safety Mart to Pharmachoice. Festivities after parade include the light up of the Legacy tree, hayrides, street hockey, live music and more!

Saturday, December 7 CHASE LIONS PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA 8 am to 11 am • Chase Community Hall All proceeds will fund proposed dog park CHASE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 10 am to 2 pm • Chase Community Hall

chasebc.ca

A very good friend brought this topic to my attention as one to comment on. To them I say thanks.

Well it’s that time of the year when we do holiday travelling up and down this mountainous terrain. Noting how easily one can venture off the road and be potentially buried in snow, having a winter travel kit is a good—no, let’s call it a great—idea. With the foremost thought that we should survive this ordeal let’s see what to include in the kit.

The following list of needs has to be addressed: • Some form of heat protection or generation • Emergency notification be it electrical, visual or audio • First aid • Food energy including water, minimum 2 litres • Emergency service tools Heat protection may include an emergency heat blanket. They are thin but work extremely well. Include a big candle and base with some matches and a full lighter in a waterproof bag. You should also have something to cover your head to minimize heat loss, like a hat or toque and some material and rubber based gloves to keep your hands warm.

Emergency notification may include a very bright flashlight with fully charged batteries plus a couple of spare sets. A cell phone, a whistle, a portable radio—especially

the crank type, flares, and an emergency flag are other good options.

Collapsible emergency triangles and a high vis-

ibility vest should also be available.

First aid kits for travel are available from auto supply locations. These may apply to more applications than a home kit would.

Food energy usually involves energy bars or substances that are compact in size but carry tons of caloric value. Some of the incidents can leave someone very thirsty so a minimum of two litres of contained water per person is recommended.

Water can also be helpful if a cleaning is required.

Examples of emergency service tools that I carry include a few necessary hand tools like slot and Phillips screwdrivers, 16 ft. jumper cables, a rubber or dead blow hammer, collapsible shovel, sawdust or kitty litter, adjustable pliers and crescent wrenches. I like to include a rechargeable impact gun to quickly remove lug nuts when changing a flat tire. You do not always get the best location to perform this emergency work so by

using a gun, it decreases exposure time to the dangers of passing traffic.

In today’s market there are small battery booster packs that can also charge your cell device.

These packs are primarily designed to provide engine-boosting functions, especially when jumper cable use is not available. They come in 500 – 1000 amp sizes that will provide enough power to start an engine a few times. Recommended applications suggest a 500-600amp for 4cyl, 750 amp for a 6cyl and 1000amp for a V8 or small diesel. They are available at auto parts supply locations. *Note: Check and recharge booster packs every three months or as necessary.

Be sure to pack in a roll of paper towel, a garbage bag, some shop rags and a roll of toilet paper (trust me this one has, in my experience, been really handy).

Most of this is written with the expectation that you are travelling with clothing that fits the weather and environment. Please be sure to tell someone about your plans and when, approximately, you will be arriving at your destination.

Enjoy your holiday travels and to use a biker term “rubber side down, shiny side up” which means don’t roll the car.

Any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me at bigsix8280@yahoo.ca

December 2019

Page 15

Continued from page 14

•

make a Christmas wall hanging, and make ten or so, all similar, although not exact,” said Lauralyn.

She is already partially booked quilting others quilt tops for Christmas 2020.

Lauralyn explains that creating a custom quilt from start to finish can take a very long time.

“Most custom quilting that I do currently ranges from two or three days to six to eight weeks. Some are very easy and I can finish one or two a day. It all depends on what the customer requests, the size of the quilt and level of quilting difficulty.”

Future aspirations for Lauralyn include a submission of her own design to Quilt Canada, a juried show that takes place in Edmonton next year. International highlevel competitions take place all over the world and are basically trade shows involving sales of different machines, fabric, thread, patterns, lessons, speakers etc.

i n s ta l l at i o n

•

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•

ALL NEW WCT PRODUCTION!

the

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of

Richard Rodgers Oscar Hammerstein II Book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse Music by

Lyrics by

Walkers Manual Wheelchairs

Lauralyn’s one of a kind quilted wall hanging.

Monetary prizes for quilts that win at this level of competition are quite high as well.

Given Lauralyn’s

remarkable talent and skill level, it will be exciting to see where she takes her quilting in the next six years.

Suggested by “The Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp

TICKETS START AT $25

Power Wheelchairs

We would like to wish all of our clients a bright and healthy season!

We’re here for you at the holidays and year-round.

SAGEBRUSH THEATRE

Pay-What-You-Can Matinees NOV 30 & DEC 7

WCTL I V E. CA

Scooters

Season’s Greetings!

NOV 28–DEC 10

Bathroom Safety Beds

s asl a e lse • s • i n si nta s lta ll at l iat on io• n • s esrevr i Cvei C • e • r erneta n lta sl s

Seating Systems Lift-Out Chairs Threshold Ramps

Walkers Walkers

Stair Lifts

Manual Manual Wheelchairs Wheelchairs Power Power Wheelchairs Wheelchairs Scooters Scooters Bathroom Bathroom Safety Safety Beds Beds Seating Seating Systems Systems Lift-Out Lift-Out Chairs Chairs Threshold Threshold Ramps Ramps Stair Stair LiftsLifts

E Give the E R F e

in-hom ials r t & s t en assessm

Gift

oF

THEATRE 6 425 1235 1 844 259 8576 |

EeE E E R R FF e m o o in-hin-h m

ialsials entsen&tstr& tr assaessssemssm

www.pgsurgmed.com 236 236425 4251235 1235 1 1844 844259 2598576 8576 Phone:

| |

G R EAT SAV I N GS SU PER F L EXI BILITY Starting at $85 for 2

2, 3 or 4 Ticket Gift Packs W CTL I V E. CA

Shows still to come this season: The New Canadian Curling Club www.pgsurgmed.com www.pgsurgmed.com ns-Canada Highway Kamloops |Monday Monday - -Friday | 8:30am Serving - 5pmElizabeth | Café Daughter 25A–1967 25A–1967 E Trans-Canada E Trans-Canada Highway Highway Kamloops Kamloops | |Monday - Friday - Friday | 8:30am | 8:30am 5pm - 5pm BC owned BCand owned operated and operated sinCe 1978. sinCe 1978.

BC owned and operated sinCe 1978.

Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen The Boy in the Moon | Every Brilliant Thing

November 2019

Page 16

Hair Clips salon

Professional Hair Care & Styling

We are HAIR for you

SHAUNA

KAREN

Get Holiday Ready!

165 - 945 Columbia St. W. in the Sahali Mall

Open: Tue - Fri 9 am - 5 pm Sat 9 am - 4 pm

250.828.0708

ON OF B ATI RI OC

COLUMBIA SH TI

NTURIST AS DE S

(Formerly Goessman Denture Clinic)

ars • et • scientia

A Proud Tradition of Denture Crafts ROBBY JAROUDI • ALLEN E. GOESSMAN

PERSONALIZED & PROFESSIONAL DENTURE SERVICE • Complete Dentures • Repairs • Dentures Over Implants • Partial Dentures

It is definitely the busiest time of the year. birthdays from April to December, 2019. For There has been lots of hustling and bustling reasons beyond our control we have not been at the Seniors’ Community Centre @ able to host it in the quarterly segments. It Desert Gardens. will be a full Roast Beef Dinner for $15.00.

On November 11, 2019, we had the Everyone is welcome to come and join in. amazing opportunity once again to Please call at least one week in advance partner with the Royal Canadian Legion to reserve your spot, 250-372-5110. and serve hotdogs and hot chocolate to A reminder that Square Dancing the youth attending the Remembrance will be starting dancing/lessons on Day Parade and Service. It was great Thursday evenings 7 - 9:30 p.m. on to witness some 300 youth all together January 9th, 2020 through to the end at one time with the best manners and of April 2020. Everyone is welcome to behaviour. It was a true joy to have come and join in. Make lifelong friends them in our midst. A huge thank you to and have fun. If you wish more info, call all our volunteers who helped make this Merv & Sandy @ 250-376-5636. day such a success.

The Centre will be closed from 4 p.m.

Submitted by When you read this, the Christmas parties December 20th and re-opening Monday, Penny Ouchi will already have begun. Our volunteers January 6, 2020, in order for our staff and are busy dashing here and there making sure many volunteers to celebrate the holiday season everything is right. The decorations are up, trees and to rejuvenate. all lit and the piano ivories are tinkling wonderful We would like to send a huge thank you to all Strata Christmas tunes.

1911 Owners/Tenants, Commercial Leasees, Programs Drop down anytime and enjoy the season with friends attendees, and groups meeting at our Centre and all and have a cup of coffee/tea, lunch Monday - Friday supporters/service people who care for us throughout 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. or even a dinner on each Tuesday the year. Without you we could not flourish. and Thursday evening at 5:30 p.m. Monthly menus are On this note, we at Seniors’ Community Centre @ available at the reception desk.

Desert Gardens - Staff, Board of Directors, Volunteers The Gift Shop rings of Christmas with its many and Members would like to wish each and everyone a unique ornaments, Santas, wreaths, ceramics, hand knit very Joyous Holiday Season and all the Best Wishes for sweaters, mitts, scarves and baby blankets and much a great 2020. more. Beautiful hand crafted knitting, sewing, jewellery A huge thank you to The Kamloops Connector for and crafts. Stop by any day Monday to Friday from 10 allowing us to submit articles monthly and for your a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and find that special gift. patience. Also, to the wonderful businesses who support We will be holding our Membership Birthday Dinner our articles. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas on December 3rd, for those who have celebrated and fantastic 2020.

The stockings are hung

Seniors’ Community Centre at Desert Gardens DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

MONDAY

1

EVERY MONDAY Coffee Club 10 am 2 Chair Yoga 11 am Table Tennis 1 pm Weightwatchers 5:30 pm

THE GOSPEL MESSAGE 3PM

8

9

TUESDAY

EVERY TUESDAY Chair Fitness 9:30 am3 Coffee Club 10 am Weightwatchers 11:30 am Kiwanis Club 11:45 am Grape Vine 12 pm Bridge 1 pm SCC Dinner 5:30 pm Table Tennis 7 pm10

Two great locations to serve you better!

10-2025 Granite Ave. Merritt, BC 1-888-374-9443

603 St. Paul Street Kamloops, BC 250-374-9443

540 Seymour Street, Kamloops V2C 2G9

WEDNESDAY

Phone: 250-372-5110 • Fax: 250-372-3429 Email: desertgardens@hotmail.com Website: www.desertgardens.ca

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

16

17

18

7 8 pm Operation Red Nose

14

JUST FOR FUN MUSIC 12:45 PM LINDY IN THE LOOPS SOCIAL DANCE 7:30 PM

8 pm (ORN)

THE GOSPEL MESSAGE 3PM

15

SATURDAY

EVERY WEDNESDAY 8 pm (ORN) 5 8 pm (ORN) 6 4 Coffee Club 10 am KAMLOOPS ECSTATIC DANCE 8 PM EVERY THURSDAY Chair Yoga 11 am M.S. Toastmasters 7 am Scrabble 1 pm EVERY FRIDAY Chair Fitness 9:30 am Weightwatchers 9 am Mahjong 1 pm Coffee Club 10 am Coffee Club 10 am Two Toonie Tea Grape Vine 12 pm TGIF 10 am 2:30 pm Table Tennis 12:30 pm Chair Yoga 11 am Cribbage 1pm 13 11 SCC Dinner 5:30 pm12 Mahjong 1 pm Toastmasters 7 pm Gamblers Anon 7 pm 8 pm (ORN) Square Dancing 7 pm

19

8 pm (ORN)

20

21

CENTRE CLOSED AT 4PM

HOME SUPPORT SERVICES

KAMLOOPS PADDLEWHEELERS LIONS CLUB 6 PM

THE GOSPEL MESSAGE 3PM LAST SESSION UNTIL FEB 9, 2020

22

23

Full Service Care Since 2009 Call for a free in-home assessment • DVA

250.852.3212

Bradwins

Christmas Day

25

8 pm (ORN)

Boxing Day

8 pm (ORN)

8 pm (ORN)

26

27

28

CENTRE CLOSED

8 pm (ORN)

29

30

31

CENTRE CLOSED

8 pm (ORN)

OVERNIGHT CARE • After hospital discharge • Continuous overnight care • After surgery • Security • Respite

24

MUSIC WITH MARK AND FRIENDS 12:50 PM

CENTRE CLOSED

Centre Hours: Oasis Cafe: Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 4pm Open Mon-Fri: 8:30am until 1pm Weddings & private functions: Anytime! Dinner Tue/Thu 5:30pm L.A. Gift Shop (Proceeds to SCC): Mon-Fri: 10am - 1:30pm

8 pm (ORN)

8 pm (ORN)

CHRISTMAS CLOSURE 4 pm Friday, Dec. 20 to Sun, Jan. 5

WE RE-OPEN ON MONDAY, JAN. 6, 2019

GET YOUR FLU SHOT! If you get the flu shot, you are exposing your body to the flu, and you could get the virus right away.

Flu shots are made with the flu virus, but it’s been inactivated and doesn’t pose a risk of infection to the person receiving the vaccination. Some versions of the flu shot don’t contain any flu virus at all. Frequent complaints of side effects from the flu shot include swelling, tenderness and soreness at the injection site. Some people may get a headache or a low-grade fever, but it will resolve quickly.

Seniors Healthy Living • Questions about your medications?

• Having trouble remembering to take your medications?

• Do you know what compounded medications are?

“Your prescriptions & compounding specialist”

FREE DELIVERY

ZOSTAVAX

(Shingles Vaccine)

& TRAVEL

VACCINES #10 -1380 Summit Drive • 250-851-3131 glovers@medicinecentre.com • www.gloversmedicinecentre.ca

Give us a call or drop by our pharmacy and see for yourself how we may be able to help.

December 2019

Page 17

North Shore Community Centre MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Ph: 250-376-4777 • Fx: 250-376-4792 E-mail: info@nsccs.ca 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Diabetic Clinic 8:30 am 1 5 Golfers Bridge 9:30 am Medit-Fit with Leah 10 am Morning Ukulele 10am Cribbage 1 pm Tina’s Ukulele Group 6 pm Dance with Me 6:30 pm Woodcarvers 6:30 pm Duplicate Bridge 7 pm Diabetic Clinic 8:30 am 8 Warren’s Yoga 9 am 9 Partner Bridge 9:30 am 10 11 Golfers Bridge 9:30 am 12 Warren’s Yoga 9 am Morning Ukulele 10am Pattern Dancing 10 am Tai Chi 9 am Community Dinner 5 pm Chair Yoga 10:30 am Fitness Fun Cribbage 1 pm Chair Yoga 10:30 am Late Bloomers Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm for Seniors 1:15 pm Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Volunteer Appreciation 1pm Weightwatchers 5 pm entertainemnt Meditation Circle 1:30pm Gentle Nia 6pm Tina’s Ukulele Group 6 pm Zumba 6:15 pm Zumba 6:15 pm Ukulele Circle 1:30 pm Dance with Me 6:30 pm Duplicate Bridge 7 pm Diabetic Clinic 8:30 am NSCCS Board Mtg 9 am 15 Warren’s Yoga 9 am16 Partner Bridge 9:30 am17 Warren’s Yoga 9 am18 Golfers Bridge 9:30 am 19 Tai Chi 9 am Joe The Egg Man 9:30am Medit-Fit with Leah 10 am Pattern Dancing 10 am Fitness Fun Chair Yoga 10:30 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Morning Ukulele 10am for Seniors 1:15 pm Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Cribbage 1 pm Meditation Circle 1:30pm Gentle Nia 6pm Weightwatchers 5 pm German Choir 1:30 pm Ukulele Circle 1:30 pm Zumba 6:15 pm Zumba 6:15 pm Tina’s Ukulele Group 6 pm Woodcarvers 6:30 pm Duplicate Bridge 7 pm Partner Bridge 9:30 am Food Safe 8:15 am 2 Pattern Dancing 10 am3 Warren’s Yoga 9 am 4 Warren’s Yoga 9 am Joe The Egg Man 9:30am Fitness Fun Chair Yoga 10:30 am Tai Chi 9 am for Seniors 1:15 pm Chair Yoga 10:30 am Meditation Circle 1:30pm NAFR Luncheon 11am Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Ukulele Circle 1:30 pm Weightwatchers 5 pm Gentle Nia 6pm Interior Authors 6 pm Zumba 6:15 pm Zumba 6:15 pm

22

29

23 Warren’s Yoga 9 am Tai Chi 9 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Gentle Nia 6pm Zumba 6:15 pm Warren’s Yoga 9 am 30 Tai Chi 9 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Carpet Bowling 12:45 pm Surg-Med Repairs 1 pm Gentle Nia 6pm Zumba 6:15 pm

24 Partner Bridge 9:30 am Pattern Dancing 10 am Centre Closed at 12pm

31 Partner Bridge 9:30 am Pattern Dancing 10 am Centre Closed at 12pm

Christmas Day

25

Boxing Day

Closed

Closed

We are closed December 24 (at 12pm), 25, 26, 31 (at 12pm) and New Year’s Day

26

SATURDAY

Warren’s Yoga 9 am6 Whole Health Care 9 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Fitness Fun for Seniors 10:30 am Karate 6pm

13 Warren’s Yoga 9 am Whole Health Care 9 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Fitness Fun for Seniors 10:30 am Karate 6pm Warren’s Yoga 9 am 20 Whole Health Care 9 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Fitness Fun for Seniors 10:30 am BCGREA Lunch 11 am Karate 6pm

7

250.377.8225 drakeCremation.com

Proud to sponsor the Desert Gardens Calendar

50

$

SYMPHONY AND

gift card TUMBLEWEED for

LOUNGE

kamloopssymphony.com Kamloops Live! Box Office www.kamloopslive.ca 1025 Lorne Street 250-374-5483

250-377-0913 405 Victoria Street tumbleweedlounge.ca

Mail or drop off your entry to: Kamloops Connector, 1365B Dalhousie Dr, Kamloops, BC, V2C 5P6 or email your details with “Kamloops Symphony” to win@connectornews.ca. Random draw from entries submitted for the contest. One entry per household.

Draw date: Wednesday, December 11 at 4pm. Prize must be Brass Transit accepted as awarded. Winners Bruce Dunn: Guest Conductor & will be called to arrange pick up Kelson Group of their prize.

the music of chicago Name ..................................................................

Weightwatchers 8 am

Email ..................................................................

GRANTS

SEASON

SPONSORS Loyal Order of Moose • Women of the Moose • Moose Legion

• 100% LOCALLY OWNED & AFFORDABLE • OUR UNIQUE PRICE SATISFACTION GUARANTEE • SIGNIFICANT DISCOUNTS IF YOU PRE-PAY • NO UPSELL AND NO HIDDEN SURPRISES • WE TAKE CARE OF MANY THINGS FOR FREE, INCLUDING THE CPP APPLICATION

THE FAMILY FRATERNITY

Open everyday 11 am Meat Draws Friday at 7 pm & Saturdays at 2-4 pm

NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME! mooselodge1552@shaw.ca

Weightwatchers 8 am

21 Weightwatchers 8 am

28

Community Dinner December 8 at 5pm Volunteer Appreciation Party December 12 at 1pm German Carols December 19 at 1:30pm

dRake smItH, msw

President

7:30pm • Sa

PERFORMANC

$48 Adult • $10 Youth (under 19) • $15 KSOundcheck (19-34)

730 Cottonwood Avenue • 250-376-8022

Weightwatchers 8 am

Friday & S

Phone.................................................................

14

27

Warren’s Yoga 9 am Chair Yoga 10:30 am Fitness Fun for Seniors 10:30 am Acro Yoga 7:30pm

25

Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #1552

wHat makes Us dIFFeRent? PLENTY! 210 Lansdowne st., kamLoops

TICKETS

452 – 730 Cottonwood Ave Kamloops V2B 8M6

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events -

SUNDAY

TWO KAMLOOPS TO THE

Bloomers. Tickets are only $15 and must be purchased in advance at the front desk.

• Thursday, December 12 at 1 p.m.

NSCCS will be hosting our Volunteer Appreciation Party in the Dogwood Room. If you volunteer at NSCCS, have entertained here this year, or donated your time in any way to help out, we welcome you to attend.

We look forward to some delicious refreshments and lots of door prizes plus a visit from some International Students for some caroling. Please come out as this is our way of saying “Thank you ever so much.”

• Thursday, December 19 at 1:30 p.m. we will be hosting the German Choir as they delight us with sounds of the Christmas season in both English and German. This event is open to everyone and is free to attend.

We hope you will consider renewing your membership at NSCCS or getting one for the first time in 2020. Memberships will be $20 for the year. This helps NSCCS continue to give discounts to members for activities as well as making sure that your voice is heard at the AGM scheduled for March 2020.

To everyone near and far, we at the North Shore Community Centre want to wish you a safe and happy holiday!

Until the new year, I bid you all adieu.

Cathryn Oginski

Season’s Greetings! At the time of writing the world is not yet dusted in white, but the festive season has a particular feeling to it. Whether you are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Winter Solstice, we wish you all the best.

As we head into the Christmas season, please be aware that some activities may have breaks over the holidays. If you are unsure if an activity is on break, please call the office at 250-376-4777 and the staff will be happy to help out.

Please note that the North Shore Community Centre will be closed at noon on Monday December 24, and closed all day Tuesday December 25th and Wednesday December 26th. The Centre will also be closed at noon on December 31st and all day for January 1st.

We would like to extend a special thank you to all of the volunteers that came out for our Christmas Craft and Bake Sale in early November. It was a great success all around. Thank you to all the vendors who came out and showed us what a great crafting community Kamloops has to offer.

Looking ahead to the month of December, we have several events that we would like to mention: • Sunday, December 8 at 5 p.m. we will be having our Christmas Community Dinner featuring ham and all the fixings. There will be door prizes, a 50/50 draw and live entertainment by The Late

Enter to Win

OCTOBER

Season’s Greetings!

ONE & TWO BEDROOM UNITS

• Apartment living for seniors • Beautiful gardens • Walking distance to North Shore shopping • One block from McArthur Island • Within the same for more information or complex as the to book an appointment North Shore Community Centre #307-730 Cottonwood Ave. & the Moose Lodge Kamloops, BC V2B 8M6 • Suites for purchase (life-lease) info@nsccs.ca • SAFER (wait list) www.cottonwoodmanor.ca

Call 250-376-4777

ka

December 2019

Page 18

Christmas at Mountain House

By Trudy Frisk

Revelstoke Seniors

Phone: 250-837-9456 www.revelstokeseniors.ca

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

MONDAY

1

Genealogy 1pm

TUESDAY

It was Christmas Eve. Looked like a good Christmas, too, thought twenty-two year old Willie Crosina, as he finished the late afternoon chores.

The war, thank God, was over.

Already men were coming home from the grim battlefields of Europe and Asia. All of Willie’s family, four brothers, two sisters and their parents were together to celebrate Christmas at Mountain House Ranch.

Mountain House had been Crosina’s home ranch since the late 1800s when grandfather Crosina bought the place—then a stage coach stop enroute from Ashcroft to the Barkerville gold fields in B.C.’s Cariboo country. Many a hopeful miner stretched his legs at Mountain House while the driver changed horses. Willie wondered what they’d make of it now, transformed into a working ranch running three to four hundred head of cattle.

Those high-wheeled wooden stagecoaches were just a memory but residents still called local automobiles which ferried mail, freight, and passengers to remote Cariboo locations ‘stages.’

It had been snowing all day. Now, with the wind whipping the flakes, the snowfall was becoming a blizzard. Willie hoped Morris Bates, the hired man, was safely home with his family on the Sugar Cane First Nations Reserve. He decided that Morris, familiar with Cariboo storms, had left Mountain House early enough to be out of the cold.

Willie turned, facing into the swirling snow.

He noticed a faint glow of headlights moving toward the ranch along the road from Williams Lake, eighteen miles away. Late Christmas shoppers from up-country headed home

he thought. Suddenly the lights tilted wildly, then stopped moving altogether. “Probably slid in the ditch,” Willie said to himself, heading for the house in a hurry.

Sure enough, soon a snow-covered stranger struggled up to the ranch house asking for help. The Likely stage, a stationwagon Travel All, with a full load of passengers and Christmas freight, had missed a turn on the barely visible road. There it sat, nose first in the ditch. Passengers stood by, staring at their stalled transportation. Willie observed they seemed fairly merry for folks miles from home in a snow storm.

The decision was quick.

There was no point in digging out the stage. A foot of snow had fallen and more was coming fast. The road was covered with drifts. Bulldozers, which were the Highway Department’s only snow clearing equipment, were scarce. There was no telling when a road crew might be along.

In hospitable Cariboo country, people looked after one another in emergencies. The perishables were unloaded from the stage, and the stranded travelers were ushered into the ranch house where they were welcomed by the family as unexpected Christmas guests.

They were soon settled in, in the hired man’s vacant room and in beds used by extra hands in the summer. To ranch women, accustomed from childhood to cooking for and coping with large crews, a few unlooked for visitors were no trouble.

As family and guests got acquainted over dinner it seemed as if the old Mountain House stopping place was reliving its past.

The driver of the stage told them he was not long out of the Navy. And

one passenger who, on being discharged, had come straight back to his Cariboo home. Other passengers included an older gentleman and his son, owners of the Beaver Lake Ranch. A bit of a party developed as war stories gave way to ranching reminiscences.

On Christmas morning some passengers seemed prepared to carry on with the party. Willie, assessing the guest’s mood, explained succinctly, “My mother and sisters are putting a lot of effort into Christmas dinner. I want everybody in condition to enjoy it. So, you’re all coming with me.”

Out they went to give the cattle their Christmas dinner. By the time the men had loaded two tons of loose hay onto the wagons; driven the teams to the feed lot and distributed hay by hand with pitchforks to over three hundred head of cattle, a good part of the day had passed and everyone was hungry.

It was a cheerful, jovial dinner. There was even a bit of regret when, in the early dusk, the roar of a bulldozer announced the Highways road crew.

With warm thanks the travelers went on their way to Likely and the isolated ranches beyond.

One was already planning to return. The young former Navy man was so impressed with Willie’s nineteen-year old sister that he was determined to know her better. And he eventually did. In a few year’s time they were married.

Fifty-four years later Willie still remembered that day fondly. “It was a nice Christmas dinner,” he recalled, “spent with people you didn’t usually have around at Christmas. All the more pleasant for being unexpected.”

Sharing with strangers, that’s the true spirit of Christmas.

9

Genealogy 1pm

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

7

Carpet 12 11 13 Bowling 9 am Billiards 9 am Senior Exercise Coffee Drop-in Senior Exercise Crib 1 pm 9:30 am 10 am 10 am Ballroom Dance Whist 7:30 pm Ballroom Dance

14

16 18 20 Carpet 19 Carpet 17 Bowling 9 am Billiards 9 am Bowling 9 am Bingo 1 pm Senior Exercise Coffee Drop-in Senior Exercise Bridge 7 pm Crib 1 pm 9:30 am 10 am 10 am Darts 7 pm Ballroom Dance Whist 7:30 pm Ballroom Dance

21

Bingo 1 pm Bridge 7 pm Darts 7 pm 15

THURSDAY

Carpet 5 2 4 6 Carpet 3 Bowling 9 am Billiards 9 am Bowling 9 am Bingo 1 pm Senior Exercise Coffee Drop-in Senior Exercise Bridge 7 pm Crib 1 pm 9:30 am 10 am 10 am Darts 7 pm Ballroom Dance Whist 7:30 pm Ballroom Dance Drop-in 7 pm Drop-in 7 pm

8

Genealogy 1pm

WEDNESDAY

Carpet 10 Bowling 9 am Drop-in 7 pm

Drop-in 7 pm

Drop-in 7 pm

22

23

24

Christmas Day

25

Drop-in 7 pm

26

Boxing Day

27

28

No Scheduled Activities from Sunday, December 22, 2019 right through January 1, 2020.

29

30

31

Visit our website: revelstokeseniors.ca

Brock Activity Centre

9A - 1800 Tranquille Road

Kamloops, B.C. V2B 3L9 info@csikamloops.ca • 778-470-6000

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

1

MONDAY

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am - 4 pm

TUESDAY

2

Closed

8

3

Lunch 11:30 - 1 pm Cribbage 1 pm

10

11

Chair Fitness 10 am Rentals until 4 pm Euchre 1:15 pm BINGO 6 pm

16

Sunday Night Dance 7 - 10:30 pm $10 at the door

23

24

Closed

29

Closed

30

Lunch 11:30 - 1 pm Cribbage 1 pm

25

Closed

Lounge Open 12 pm - 7 pm

MONDAY

2

Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

Meat Draw 2:30 pm

8

Meat Draw 2:30 pm Lounge Open15 12 pm - 7 pm Turkeys & Ham at Meat Draw 2:30 pm Lounge Open22 12 pm - 7 pm Turkeys & Ham at Meat Draw 2:30 pm

29

Lounge Open 12 pm - 7 pm

Meat Draw 2:30 pm

6

SATURDAY

7

Old Time Fiddlers Dance 7:30 - 10 pm

13

14

19

20 Chair Fitness 10am Stroke Group 10:30 NO Lunch Canasta 1 pm

Closed

26

Boxing Day

21 Prostate Cancer Support Group 10 am

27

28

Closed

Closed

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events -

Lounge Open 12 pm - 7 pm

12

Closed

Royal Canadian Legion Br. #52 1

FRIDAY

Stitchers Club 9 am Chair Fitness 10am Bridge 1 pm Lunch 11:30 - 1 pm Canasta 1 pm Canasta 1 pm

18

Christmas Day

5

31

Closed

SUNDAY

THURSDAY

Chair Fitness 10am Stitchers Club 9 am Stroke Group 10:30 Social Club Dance Bridge 1 pm Potluck Lunch 12 pm 7 - 11 pm Canasta 1 pm Canasta 1 pm

Closed

17

Chair Fitness 10 am Rentals until 4 pm Euchre 1:15 pm BINGO 6 pm

22

4

Rentals until 4 pm BINGO 6 pm

9

15

WEDNESDAY

3

Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

9 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

16 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

23 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

30 Lounge Open 2 pm - 10 pm

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

10 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

24 Lounge Open 2 pm - 5 pm

31 Lounge Open 2 pm - 5 pm

THURSDAY

18 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm Christmas Day

Closed

25

5

Lounge Open 2 pm - 11 pm Crib & Darts

11 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

17 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm

4

Office Hours: 2 pm to - 4 pm Monday - Friday

425 Lansdowne St.

Kamloops, B.C. V2C 1Y2 Office: 250-374-1742

FRIDAY

Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm Crib 2 pm Everyone welcome to play

12 Lounge Open 2 pm - 11 pm Crib & Darts

13 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm Crib 2 pm

19

Lounge Open 2 pm - 11 pm Crib & Darts Exec Meeting Boxing Day

Closed

6

20 Lounge Open 2 pm - 7 pm Crib 2 pm

26

27 Closed

SATURDAY Lounge Open 12 pm - 7 pm

7

Meat Draw 2:30 pm Lounge Open14 12 pm - 7 pm Turkeys & Ham at Meat Draw 2:30 pm Lounge Open21 12 pm - 7 pm Turkeys & Ham at Meat Draw 2:30 pm

28

Lounge Open 12 pm - 7 pm Meat Draw 2:30 pm

FOR INFORMATION ON ALL LEGION EVENTS call 250-374-1742 or email Secretary@kamloopslegion.com

December 2019

Page 19

uth Ann Neil a.k.a. Bitterroot, of Oliver, B.C. has been contributing poems to The Kamloops Connector for several years. With great appreciation we would like to acknowledge Ruth’s long-term contribution as it comes to an end. While Ruth is no longer able to send us a poem each 2014 month, we would like to re-run one of our favourites on the subject Theof Conn December Christmas. Thank you so much Bitterroot. ~ Bitterroot (Lewisia rediviva) is a small perennial herb in the Montiaceae family. Its specific epithet rediviva (“revived, reborn”) refers to its ability to regenerate from dry and seemingly dead roots. Wikipedia

R

Shuswap Lake Senior Citizens Society DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

1

MONDAY

TUESDAY

2

3

Painting Group Spiritualist Church 9 am - 2 pm 10:30 am - 1 pm Mt. Ida Painters 9 am - 2 pm Historical Society Spiritualist Church 2 pm - 4 pm 7 pm - 9 pm

8

9

10

Spiritualist Church Mt. Ida Painters Painting Group 10:30 am - 1 pm 9 am - 2 pm 9 am - 2 pm Spiritualist Church Mt. Ida Potluck Spiritualist Church Potluck 11:30 am - 1 pm 7 pm - 9 pm 5:30 - 8 pm

15

16

17 Painting Group

Spiritualist Church 9 am - 2 pm Mt. Ida Painters Candle Light Spiritualist Church Service 9 am - 2 pm HEALING 10:30 am - 1 pm 7 pm - 9 pm

22

23

24

Hall Rented: Mt. Ida Painters Naturalist Society 9 am - 2 pm 3 pm - 6 pm

Painting Group 9 am - 2 pm

29

30 Painting Group 31 9 am - 2 pm

CENTRE CLOSED

New Year’s Eve Bingo Begins at 5 pm

WEDNESDAY

Elder Services4 By referral only

10am - 12pm 12:30 - 2:30pm Zen Meditation 7 pm - 9 pm Elder Services11

THURSDAY

12

MONDAY

TUESDAY 2

Monday Morning Market

8

9

Monday Morning Market 15

16

Monday Morning Market

Caregiver Support Group 10 am

22

Lunch w/Friends

23

24

30

31

Office Closed December 21 to January 5

29

13

14

19

20

21

10am - 12pm 12:30 - 2:30pm Zen Meditation 7 pm - 9 pm

Carving 9 am - 12 noon

By referral only

Christmas Day

25

Boxing Day

Pool & Cards 10am - 2pm Hall Rented 5-9pm

26

27

Move with Music 10am - 11:30am Bingo 4 pm Doors Open 6 pm Walk Ins

28

CENTRE CLOSED Bingo, Olena Bramble ...................... 250-803-9688 Carvers, Olena Bramble................... 250-803-9688 Elder Services, Lee Ann or Brenda . 250-833-4136 Hall Rentals, Olena Bramble............ 250-803-9688 Mount Ida Painters, Olena Bramble 250-803-9688 Move With Music, Olena Bramble ... 250-803-9688 Spiritualist Church, Gloria Makey ... 250-832-8058 Tuesday Painting, Ross Chester ..... 250-832-3579 Zen Meditation, Vaughn McArthur ... 250-804-3139

25

SATURDAY 6

12

Boxing Day

7

13

14

20

21

Day Away

Day Away &19 Lunch w/Friends Christmas Lunch Good Food Box Pick Up

No Day Away

26

27

28

DOORS OPEN MON-FRI 9 AM - 4 PM RAINBOW CAFE 11:30 AM - 1 PM

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

1

Seniors Fifth Avenue Christmas Dinner 5 pm Doors open 4 pm

8 Duplicate Bridge 1 pm

15 Duplicate Bridge 1 pm Jammers Dance 7 pm

22 Duplicate Bridge 1 pm

29 Duplicate Bridge 1 pm

MONDAY

2

Table Tennis 8:30 am Keep Fit 10:45 am Crib 1:30 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Ukulele 6:30 pm

9

Table Tennis 8:30 am Keep Fit 10:45 am Crib 1:30 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Camera Club 7 pm

16

Table Tennis 8:30 am Keep Fit 10:45 am Crib 1:30 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Ukulele 6:30 pm

TUESDAY

3

Weightwatchers 8:30 am Scrabble 9:30 am Darts 1 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Qigong Classes 6 pm

10

Weightwatchers 8:30 am Scrabble 9:30 am Darts 1 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Qigong Classes 6 pm

17

Weightwatchers 8:30 am Scrabble 9:30 am Darts 1 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Qigong Lessons 6 pm

23

24

Kitchen & Office Closed

Kitchen & Office Closed

Table Tennis 8:30 am Keep Fit 10:45 am

All Activities Cancelled

30

31

Kitchen & Office Closed Table Tennis 8:30 am Keep Fit 10:45 am

Kitchen & Office Closed Weightwatchers 8:30 am

WEDNESDAY

4

www.5thAveSeniors.org

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Table Tennis 8:30 am Canasta 10 am Floor Curling 10:30 am Ukulele 2 pm Square Dance 6:30 pm

Qigong Lessons 8:30 am5 Whist 10 am Keep Fit 10:45 am Social Bridge 1 pm Table Tennis 1:30 pm Shuswap Intergenerational Choir 3:45 pm Crib 7 pm

Table Tennis 8:30 am11 Canasta 10 am Floor Curling 10:30 am BEGREA 12 pm Ukulele 2 pm Square Dance 6:30 pm

Qigong Lessons 8:30 am Whist 10 am Keep Fit 10:45 am Social Bridge 1 pm Table Tennis 1:30 pm Shuswap Intergenerational Choir 3:45 pm Aud. Rented 5:30 pm Crib 7 pm

12

Sing Along 9:45 am13 Canasta 10 am Bridge 1 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Last Day for Lunches (open again January 6)

14

Qigong Lessons 8:30 am Keep Fit 10:45 am Social Bridge 1 pm Table Tennis 1:30 pm Crib 7 pm

19

20

21

Canasta 10 am Bridge 1 pm

26

27

28

Kitchen & Office Closed

Kitchen & Office Closed

18

Table Tennis 8:30 am Canasta 10 am Floor Curling 10:30 am Ukulele 2 pm

Christmas Day Closed

25

Boxing Day

6

Sing Along 9:45 am Canasta 10 am Bridge 1 pm Line Dancing 1:30 pm Aud. Rented 4:30 pm

POOL ROOM OPEN WEEKDAYS 9 AM - 4 PM OFFICE & KITCHEN WILL BE CLOSED FROM DECEMBER 16, 2019 - JANUARY 6, 2020

Christmas Light Red and green lights on indoor trees, the sparkle of snow in the dry pine hills It is what we long for – light triumphs over darkness In the end we trust that sunshine will greet the day, and our shadows will be redeemed How can we see light as it really is when we weep for rainbows that will return in the spring?

The colours are inside us you know, prisms shaped like our hearts, illumined like presents to treasure Bitterroot

Day Away

Day Away

Foot Care (by appt. only) Christmas Day

FRIDAY 5

11

18

Mon•Tue•Thur•Fri 10 am - 2 pm Except Holidays

Salmon Arm, B.C. V1E 1H1

Day Away

Foot Care (by appt. only)

Drop-In Pool, Cards & Puzzles, Computer Lab

Phone 250-832-7000 Fax 250-833-0550 Office Hours: 9 am - 3 pm

THURSDAY

Foot Care (by appt. only)

We are looking for Bingo Caller and Bingo Manager Backups.

Call: 250-803-9688

320A Second Ave. NE

4

17

Foot Care (by appt. only)

7

Move with Music 10am - 11:30am Bingo 4 pm Doors Open 6 pm Walk Ins

18 Elder Services

10am - 12pm 12:30 - 2:30pm Zen Meditation 7 pm - 9 pm

10

Foot Care (by appt. only)

Christmas Banquet 12:30 pm

SATURDAY

Bingo 4 pm Doors Open 6 pm Walk Ins

3

Caregiver Support Lunch w/Friends Group 10 am

6

Pool & Cards 10am - 2pm Elder Services By referral only 10am - 12pm Hall Rented 5-9pm

WEDNESDAY

Foot Care (by appt. only)

FRIDAY

Carving 9 am - 12 noon Director’s Meeting 1 pm - 2:30 pm

By referral only

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events 1

5

Carving 9 am - 12 noon

Seniors’ Resource Centre - Salmon Arm SUNDAY

31 Hudson Ave. NE, Box 1552 Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4M6 P: 250-832-3015 E: drop31@telus.net

7

Zone 8 celebrates past, present and future Wishing all our clients a

By Linda Haas

SAFE & HAPPY

guessed the jelly bean enough. Don’t let a Congratulations and jujube numbers word stand in your way to recently elected (or at least guessed the now; 55+ is an official members to the Zone closest). They got to take invitation to come play 8 Executive Committee the candy home. And with us. at our AGM on Oct. 16: The mission of the B.C. congratulations to Ed Linda Haas is president, Collins who shared the Seniors Games Society Heather Sinclair, second pot, taking $107.50 back is to improve the health, vice-president and to Merritt. A huge thank lifestyle and image of registrar, Russ Reid, you to everyone who British Columbia’s 55+ secretary, and Bruce donated items for the population. This is done Dahling continues as by organizing the annual bucket auction, allowing zone director. Heather 12 lucky people to leave 55+ B.C. Games as an will learn the registrar’s with nifty prizes and opportunity for those duties from Bruce, the •picture.

Altogether to participate who has done•an TRAILERS COACHES •eligible CAMPERS • 5TH WHEELS MOTOR HOMES Zone 8 raised $493.25, excellent job. Phil Maher in physical and social Save the difficulty & promoting inconvenience which of will trying help with our activities, continues as first viceoperational expenses in community awareness president as does Sharon to sell your RV by yourself!

2015. of the contemporary Green as treasurer.

We offer special image of this population They too, have done congratulations to Russ group asAre physically an excellent job. We you concerned about: GETTING READY Reid, who was awarded active and socially are grateful for all the • Strangers coming to your home the Joe Siebert award for engaged. The 55+ B.C. volunteers who support FOR YOUR • Length of time tooutstanding sell your unit service to Games have always the organization that • The price toZone ask 8. Russ had served JANUARY been, and will right continue promotes wellness of TRIP? DON’T Legalities as the second vice- TO into the •future, to beof selling mind and body through WANT CONSIGN? president registrar friendly •—Wasting offering your livelyfree physical, mental and time and continuesWE’LL to be the competition in the spirit social activities.

• Clean-up & detailand costs BUY YOUR zone hockey coordinator. of fun and camaraderie, Each year brings • Etc., etc., etc.

UNIT! He has also started change into our personal presenting competitive serving as secretary. opportunities that are lives and often in the inclusive of all levels and Thanks Russ! organizations to which Our next meeting abilities. we belong. While the takes place on Feb. 19, Following the AGM, B.C. Seniors Games 2015 at the Chief Louis members and guests Society continues Centre. We thank the enjoyed a great Chinese to be our provincial Tk’emlups Indian Band buffet at the Shanghai organization and will for welcoming us and Mandarin restaurant. At remain the owner, allowing us to hold our this fund-raising lunch, producer and primary monthly meetings in Zone 8 benefited from funding source for the the support of those who their facility.

Games, the Games In the meantime, we took part in the bucket themselves will encourage all folks 55+ auction, shared pot, henceforth be called : to consider making 2015 candy guesses andTel silent the 55+ B.C Games.

“On the Auto Mile” the year to enjoy the auction. One of the Participation by those Toll Free: 1-800-555-8373 excitement leading up aged 55 to 64 has always prizes was a beautiful 2449 Trans Hwy. E., Kamloops, BCtaking V2C part 4A9in to and framed painting. been appreciated, but Canada the 55+ B.C. Games in perhaps those in that www.SouthThompsonRV.com age Congratulations to North Vancouver.

Jeanette Glenn and group who did not take Kathy Brand who part felt not quite senior

HOLIDAY SEASON!

CONSIGNMENTS WELCOME

GET TUNED UP TODAY!

We’ll eliminate all the problems for you!

250-374-4949

H

December 2019

Page 20

Yuletide in Indonesia

By Rita Joan Dozlaw

On site at a rayon mill in Sumatra Indonesia, a new training centre opened for support staff.

Miss Angela, an ex-patriot instructor in clerical skills, was hired. Tresna’s excitement boiled over; for, as a member of the mill secretariat, she was the first to sign up for a course. Her goal, to eventually return to her village of Porsea and take a teachers’ aid job at her former high school, highly motivated her.

Soon after they met, Tresna leaned into Miss Angela for their typical greeting kiss, one cheek, then the other. Feeling closer than ever to each other, they broached the subject of Tresna’s obvious health problems.

With a serious expression, Tresna looked up through her dark glasses to explain why she had blond hair and an almost transparent complexion compared to others of her Indonesian race.

“From birth, my health is poor. I am afflicted; I am albino,” she managed without emotion. She was not as burdened by her personal plight as she was by the disturbing situations in her small Batak community. Extremely fortunate to have opportunities, she was dedicated to helping others in spite of her own frailty. She showed great strength of character when she spoke lovingly of her village in the mountainous northern regions of the island. “I wish I can heal my village and its people. I wish my people get educate,” Tresna had sighed. In the same breath, she spoke sorrowfully of the prevalent illiteracy and poverty.

Angela, who’d become her confidant, listened as, unbelievably, their conversation led to an invitation of

a lifetime.

Yuletide.

“Please, Miss Angela, on Great pots of steaming Christmas you come to my rice, along with pots of village? Say yes, please?” chicken and sweet-tasting Sensing the importance fruit bats, simmered over of her presence at the a fire. The buffalo and profoundly meaningful a couple of goats were occasion, Angela gladly baked then ceremoniously accepted. When the fesremoved from the mud tive day arrived, eager oven. Tresna recognized young Tresna proudly esher friend’s awkward corted her beloved teacher hesitation to eat with her into her family’s hut. fingers. “It’s good to eat “Salamat Hari Natal.” many Indonesian food,” The Batak Tribe leader, she suggested as she Tresna’s dignified elderly thoughtfully came up with father, welcomed their a spoon. guest of honour. He got In front of low benches up from the partly folded under a tent-like roof, mat and unfolded the last elders and those of section – the section for highest authority squatguests only. Bowing, he ted. The most honoured gestured for Angela to male guests shared the sit on the clean un-faded exclusive fruit-garnished portion. She obliged and delicacy of baked goats’ attempted to break the heads served on braided ice; in soft tones of applatters created from wide preciation, she addressed banana leaves. When the the curious family, “Merry greasy skulls were picked Christmas. Thank you for clean, without any sense inviting me.” Her voice of vulgarity, an effusion faded, when the giggling of approval echoed in the erupted. Oh my gosh, they belching of one satisdon’t understand a word fied man after another. A I’m saying. A young‘loving cup’, containing ster purposely waved a a liquid-representation balsam fan near her face. of blood, was passed It helped cool her embararound for guests to sip. rassment and relaxed her Angela knew that long ago enough to allow her to the actual liquid plasma actually sit cross-legged shed by the buffalo was on the straw mat. The served. In those days, it tension drained away would have been shared completely when Tresna at important feasts; for, stepped in and translated when the ‘strength from English into Bahasa Indo- the beast’ was deliberately nesian. drained and consumed, Later, away from the it provided great health crowd, Tresna explained components and ceremoto Angela that a family nial importance. who can spare their beast The nativity, a major from its burdensome part of the festivities, was labour, in most cases a re-enacted by children, healthy water buffalo, is musicians and singers proud of their prosperity from local villages. Homeand honoured to slaughmade instruments, from ter it and divide it among home-grown bamboo, villagers on a special ocaccompanied rounds of casion. She stressed that uninhibited voices. Drums the huge scope of comcreated from hollow tree passionate sharing and trunks, and wind whistles togetherness is the most See “The Following” on page 25 important part of Indo

Lakeview Community Centre Society DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

MONDAY

1

8

TUESDAY

Fitness Classes2 8:30 - 9:30am Carpet Bowling 10am-12pm Table Tennis 1-3pm

9

Fitness Classes 8:30 - 9:30am Table Tennis 1-3pm

15

16 Table Tennis 1-3pm

22

23

29

30

WEDNESDAY

8

15

22

29

MONDAY

2

Guys & Gals Exercise 8:30 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Canasta 1 pm 9 Guys & Gals Exercise 8:30 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Canasta 1 pm 16 Guys & Gals Exercise 8:30 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Canasta 1 pm

FRIDAY

Carpet Bowling 5 Fitness 4 10am-12pm Classes 9 - 10 am Drop-in Crafts Drop-in Crib 1-3 pm 10am-2pm Anglebay North Shore Art Entertainers 1-3 pm Table Tennis 1-3pm Group 10am-2pm Dance Lessons with Drop-in Jam Tom & Connie 7-8pm Session 7-9pm Fitness 11 10 12 Classes 9 - 10 am Drop-in Crib 1-3 pm Drop-in Crafts 10am-2pm Table Tennis 1-3pm Anglebay North Shore Art Entertainers 1-3 pm Drop-in Jam Group 10am-2pm Dance Lessons with Session 7-9pm Tom & Connie 7-8pm

24

Christmas Day

Drop-in Crafts 10am-2pm North Shore Art Group 10am-2pm

25

Boxing Day

Fitness Classes 9 - 10 am

13

TUESDAY

14

20

21 Coffee House @ Lakeview 7 - 10 pm

26

Jo 250-955-2282 Carpet Bowling Blair 250-955-0032 Craft Classes Cathey O. 403-465-1724 Dance Lessons Tom & Connie 250-679-2166 Drop-in Crafts Dolores 250-517-9618

7 Christmas Dinner & Dance 5 - 11 pm

Fitness Classes 9 - 10 am

27

Drop-in Cribbage 1-3 pm Drop-in Jam Session 7-9pm

31 Anglebay Entertainers Chorus

Drop-in Crafts 10am-2pm North Shore Art Group 10am-2pm

SATURDAY

6

17 18 Drop-in Crib 1-3 pm 19 Table Tennis 1-3pm Drop-in Crafts Dance Lessons 10am-2pm with Tom & Connie Country Gardeners’ North Shore Art 1:30-2:30pm 7-8pm Group 10am-2pm Drop-in Jam Session 7-9pm

28

Fitness Classes carmen@carmentayles.com North Shore Art Group Alison 250-955-2588 Table Tennis Dennis 250-955-2899

Chase Creekside Seniors

542 Shuswap Avenue • 250-679-8522

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events 1

Squilax/Anglemont

3

Chase Seniors Centre SUNDAY

THURSDAY

Lakeview Centre

Open 8:30 to 11:30 am, 1:00 to 4:30 pm 3

WEDNESDAY

Guys & Gals 4 Bells & Bows Exercise 9 am 10 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Bingo 1 pm Canasta 1 pm Jam Session 7 pm 10 Guys & Gals11 Bells & Bows Exercise 9 am 10 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Bingo 1 pm Canasta 1 pm Jam Session 7 pm 17 Guys & Gals18 Bells & Bows Exercise 9 am 10 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Bingo 1 pm Canasta 1 pm Jam Session 7 pm

23 Guys & Gals Exercise 8:30 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Canasta 1 pm

24 Bells & Bows 10 am Bingo 1 pm

30 Guys & Gals Exercise 8:30 am Pool/Snooker 1 pm Canasta 1 pm

31 Bells & Bows 10 am Bingo 1 pm

Christmas Day

Closed

25

THURSDAY

5

FRIDAY

6

Wood Exercise 9 am Carving 9 am Mini Crib 11 am Drop In Carpet (Register at 10:30 am) Crib 1 pm Bowling 10 am Wood 12 Carving 9 am Drop In Carpet Bowling 10 am Club Mtg 1 pm 19 Wood Carving 9 am Drop In Carpet Bowling 10 am 26 Wood Carving 9 am Drop In Carpet Bowling 10 am Boxing Day

13

SATURDAY

7

14

Exercise 9am Crib 1pm 20

21

Exercise 9am Crib 1pm 27

28

Exercise 9am Crib 1pm

SUDOKU

December 2019

Page 21

On to the Airing of Grievances On to the Airing of Grievances

Crossword Crossword

by Adrian Powell by1 Adrian 2 Powell 3 1

15

16 Bridge 12:30 - 4 pm

22 Closed

Closed

Closed

24

Christmas Day

21

19 Potluck 12 pm General Meeting 1 pm

25

Closed

Bingo 12:30 - 4 pm

Carpet Bowling & Cards 10 - 4 pm

23 14

21 Bingo 12:30 - 4 pm

27

28

Closed

27 27

30

31

Senior’s/Adult Dinner 4:30-6:30 pm Public Welcome

2

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm 8

9

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm 15

16

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm 22

TUESDAY

Carpet Bowling 9:30 am 10

Carpet Bowling 9:30 am Community Paramedic 1pm

17

Carpet Bowling 9:30 am Community Paramedic 1pm

23

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm 29

30

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm

3

24

BINGO

43

45 45

Box 791 Barriere V0E 1E0

4

THURSDAY

MONDAY

8 Christmas Meat Draw @ Legion 3 - 5 pm

2

Somatika 10:30-11:30 am Carpet Bowling 1-3 pm

11

18

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm Fun Cards 1:30 pm Christmas Day

25

13 Seniors Christmas Carpet Bowling Dinner 9:30 am Tickets must be purchased by Dec 6 19 20

3rd Sunday Social 12:30 Wells Gray Inn

22

Somatika 10:30-11:30 am Carpet Bowling 1-3 pm

23

30

21

Carpet Bowling 9:30 am Boxing Day

26

27

28

Tickets must be purchased by Dec 6

Evergreen Acres (unless otherwise noted)

Phone: 250-674-8185

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Pot Luck Lunch3 12 pm Silvertones 1 pm Bridge 7-9pm Seniors Centre

WGCSS Mtg 4 10 am, Seniors Rm Sit & Be Fit 10:30 - 11:30 am Crib 1 pm Legion Cyber Seniors 3:15-4pm Seniors Room

5 Carpet Bowling 1-3 pm Writer’s Circle 2 pm Library

Hike: Meet 6 @ Strawberry Moose 9 am Darts 7 pm @ Legion

7

12

14

Carpet Bowling 1-3 pm

Hike: Meet 13 @ Strawberry Moose 9 am Darts, 7 pm @ Legion

19 Carpet Bowling 1-3 pm Writer’s Circle 2 pm Library

20 Hike: Meet @ Strawberry Moose 9 am Darts 7 pm @ Legion

21

26

Hike: Meet 27 @ Strawberry Moose 9 am Darts 7 pm @ Legion

28

Sit & Be Fit 18 Bunco 17 10:30 - 11:30 am 1:30-3:00 pm Crib 1pm Legion Seniors Centre Cyber Seniors Bridge 7-9pm 3:15-4pm Seniors Centre Seniors Room

24

Christmas Day

Closed

29

14

Seniors Christmas Dinner December 13

Doors open 5:30pm Early Bird Games 6:30 Regular Bingo 7pm Carpet Bowling 9:30 am

9 10 Sit & Be Fit 11 Learn and Lunch, 10:30 - 11:30 am Somatika 10:30-11:30 am 10:30am Elks Hall Crib 1pm Legion Cyber Seniors Carpet Bridge 7-9pm 3:15-4pm Bowling 1-3 pm Seniors Centre 16

7

Carpet Bowling 9:30 am

Closed

31

SATURDAY

12

Seniors Room

15

FRIDAY

Bingo 6 Carpet Bowling Doors Open 5:30 pm Adult Support 9:30 am 9:30 am to 1 pm Early Bird Games 6:30 pm Fun Cards Senior’s 1:30 pm General Mtg 2 pm Regular Bingo 7 pm

Adult Support 9:30 am to 1 pm Fun Cards 1:30 pm

5

31

25

Boxing Day

SATURDAY

36

5454 55 55

56

62

13

47

31 33

32

33

58

59

41 44

48

51

56

32

37

37 41

51

12

16

31

48

11 13

26

30

47

10 12

22

44

46

68

4431 Barriere Town Road

25

40

50 50

Closed

26

43

67 67

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events 1

46

39 40

65

Clearwater Seniors’ Activities SUNDAY

36

61 62

WEDNESDAY

Carpet Bowling 9:30 am

35

42 42

6:30 pm 64 Regular Bingo 7 pm

MONDAY

35

30

11

19

22 25

29

10

19

21

61

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events 1

29

9

16

18

Bingo 60 The Centre is closed for the holidays from Doors Open 5:30 pm Early Bird Games 4pm December 21, 2019 until January 6,2020.

64

Barriere & District Seniors Society SUNDAY

28 28

8

15

24

39

60

CENTRE CLOSED

24

38 38

53 53 29

23

34 34

Bingo 12:30 - 4 pm

20

26

Boxing Day

7

13 Carpet Bowling & Cards 10 - 4 pm

18

SATURDAY

6

Carpet Bowling & Cards 10 - 4 pm

Closed

Closed CENTRE CLOSED

Closed

20 20

FRIDAY

12

Closed

Closed

5

Closed

11

Pool 17 10 am - 12 pm Carpet Bowling & Cards 10 - 4 pm

23

THURSDAY

4

9

49

49

52

52

57

57 58

63

63

65

66

66

68

69

69

59

ACROSS 57 inTears 31 Cod pieces?

ACROSS 57 Tears two in two 31 Cod pieces?

Theblue blue Danish that Elaine Benes is 32 Preferred 11 The of of Danish BlueBlue 60 The60 factThe thatfact Elaine Benes is 32 Preferred bunk, for many bunk, fo Ghananeighbour neighbour two bookies off-track33bookies bossone has the 66 Ghana meetingmeeting two off-track The boss33 hasThe the final 10 notenote for dinner, Cosmoin Cosmo35 Simulated35 theSimulated crime scenethe crim 10 Brief, Brief,handwritten handwritten for in dinner, 14 youryour radii radii Kramer's view 39 "Walking 39 the "Walking dog" need the dog" 14 These Theseparallel parallel Kramer's view 15 riverriver 64 "Canterbury" story 15 Major MajorYorkshire Yorkshire 64 "Canterbury" story 40 Chi-chi 40 Chi-chi subject flooding 65 Bit 65 of birdbath slime more subjectto to flooding Bit of birdbath slime44 Say a few44 Saywords a few more w 16 cookie 66 Twisted, in a way in a way 46 Bangkok 46 native 16 World's World'sbest-selling best-selling cookie 66 Twisted, Bangkok native 17 partpart of celebration 67 Barrelled along along 47 O'Neill's "The ___ Cometh" 17 Essential Essential of celebration 67 Barrelled 47 O'Neill's "The ___ ininthe immediately left a left 48 Rajah's consort thepuzzle, puzzle, immediately68 Hang 68aHang 48 Rajah's consort following dinner 69 Painted Desert features 52 Wipe out.52 Wipe out. following dinner 69 Painted Desert features 20 youyou shout 53 Tiny spotted 20 Something Something shout 53 newts Tiny spotted newt while DOWNDOWN 54 Gather the whiledriving driving 54grain Gather the grain 21 a barque 1 Furry lived Gilligan liv 21 Back Backonon a barque 1 hand-warmer Furry hand-warmer 55 Where Gilligan 55 Where 22 DayDay gift gift 2 Butter title, briefly 22 Valentine's Valentine's 2 alternative Butter alternative 56 French cleric's 56 French cleric's titl 23 cheese invented in 1869 in 1869 58 "Guilty", for 23 Shred Shredsome some cheese invented 58example "Guilty", for examp 25 3 Totally beyond question 59 Uses needle and thread 25 It's It'shistory history 3 Totally beyond question 59 Uses needle and 27 full full of itof it 4 "In 4a while."

61 Vessel in61 an Vessel Okanagan 27 The TheSeine's Seine's "In a while." in an Oka 29 festival is for, Iowa winery, perhaps 29 Who Whothis this festival is for, 5 ___5 Moines, ___ Moines, Iowa winery, perhaps according to Frank Costanza 6 Chewy English confection 62 Cutting edge tool for edge tool according to Frank Costanza 6 Chewy English confection 62 Cutting 34 7 Force office an Inuktitut speaker 34 Gaze Gazeangrily angrily 7 from Force from office an Inuktitut speak 36 Noah's boat 8 It's added to your potato 63 Butt into 36 Noah's boat 8 It's added to your potato 63 Butt into 37 Melanesian palm chips but not to your potatoes 37 used Melanesian palm not to your potatoes SOLUTION TO PUZZLE in thatching 9 'Neath'schips poeticbut antithesis SOLUTION TO PU used thatching 9 dull 'Neath's poetic antithesis 38 Big riverinthrough Dresden 10 What speakers 38 Big river through Dresden 10 What dull speakers 39 Tugs abruptly may speak in 39 Spot Tugs maymeasurements speak in 41 in abruptly the distance 11 Tiny work 41 Spot in the distance 11 Tiny 42 Loafer's bottom 12 Dish (out) work measurements 42 Tolkien Loafer's bottom 12 Dish 43 monster from 13 Sounds heard(out) at 43 Middle-earth Tolkien monster from 13 Sounds Cirque du Soleil heard at Middle-earth du Soleil 44 Arson aftermath 18 String ofCirque expletives 44 December Arson aftermath 18 inString expletives 45 day to celebrate 19 Once, times of of yore 45 this December day to celebrate 19 Once, times of yore puzzle's theme 24 Downed some in grub thisSeats puzzle's 24 benefit, Downed some grub 49 "All Sold" theme theatre sign 25 Fringe briefly 49 Seaman's "All Seatsshout Sold" theatre sign 25 Fringe benefit, briefly 50 26 Requests 50 Police Seaman's shout 26 Requests 51 academy student 27 Disgorge 51 "Fear Police academy 27 Disgorge 53 of Flying" writerstudent Jong 28 Permit 53 Granddads "Fear of Flying" writer Jong 28 Permit 56 30 Popular salad dressing 56 Granddads 30 Popular salad dressing

Buying or Selling Real Estate?

From sign up to sign down...I work hard for you!

For all your Real Estate needs in Kamloops, call

BILL ALBERS

250-851-1193 Office: 250-374-3331 Email: billalbers@remax.net

www.billalbers.remax.ca

Real Estate (Kamloops) 258 Seymour Street

T O F F E E

Bridge 12:30 - 4 pm

18

7

O U E N R A R A G S U K A S B

9

17 17

8

A R T Y

Pool 10 am - 12 pm Carpet Bowling & Cards 10 - 4 pm Pool 10 10 am - 12 pm Carpet Bowling & Cards 10 - 4 pm

Bridge 12:30 - 4 pm

8

WEDNESDAY

3

Patricia Kilt, President Isabel: 250-453-2427

15

6 7

O M E MO E O R E O R E N G T H R O S E S A S T S T O F U S K N I P A S E S P Y A S H E S R D S R O A D E T N R I P S I R A C L E A S K EW M E S A S

TUESDAY

2

14 14

6

M E M O L DO RT EO O G AE EN GO TU H S TR SOOSF ES S T ES T A F T RT AOT FE U S P TNH IE PR A E R EE S PA Y R EA SYHA EN S K ED OSR RC O ND TEY TT H I A HRO IY P S C CR AA C LM E E TA ISVKU ES W M E A L G A M E S A S D T U R N

MONDAY

5

5

L R E A N II S L E

1

4

O G O UM S SU TL TF E FP O R E AE RA NG KL CE L HS O I TC W M E R SE M GF AE T A R N S P

SUNDAY

4

601 BANCROFT

Ashcroft, B.C. 250-453-9861

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events -

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Ashcroft-Cache Creek Senior Society

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December 2019

Page 22

Savona and Area 50+

O.A.P.O Branch #129

6605 Buie Road/Savona Access Rd

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

MONDAY 1

We are a home that offers an active social life, nutritious meals and a carefree lifestyle.

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TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

2

Savona Weight Loss Club 8:15 am Craft Club 1 pm

9

Savona Weight Loss Club 8:15 am Craft Club 1 pm

3 Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

10

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Potluck Mtg 6 pm General Mtg 7pm

16

Savona Weight Loss Club 8:15 am Craft Club 1 pm

17 Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

23

Savona Weight Loss Club 8:15 am Craft Club 1 pm

24 Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

30

Savona Weight Loss Club 8:15 am Craft Club 1 pm

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

4

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Canasta 7 pm

5 Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

11

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Canasta 7 pm

12 Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

18

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Canasta 7 pm Christmas Day

25

19 Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

26

Boxing Day

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

Closed

MONDAY

1607 GREENFIELD AVENUE | 250•554-9244

Crib noon 8

Closed

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Crib noon 22

Closed 29

Closed

Open 2 9 am - noon Seniors Chair Yoga 11:30am-12:15pm

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14

20

21

27

28

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Crib 7 pm

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Crib 7 pm

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Crib 7 pm

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Drop-in Centre 80 – 150 Opal Village Centre Mall

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events 1

7

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am Crib 7 pm

Exercise 8:30 am Coffee 9 am

Logan Lake Seniors 50+ SUNDAY

SATURDAY 6

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 3

Open 9 am - noon

Open 9 9 am - noon Seniors Chair Yoga 11:30am-12:15pm

Closed

Open 16 9 am - noon Seniors Chair Yoga 11:30am-12:15pm

Open 9 am - noon

10

17

Open 23 9 am - noon Seniors Chair Yoga 11:30am-12:15pm

24

Open 9 am - noon

Open 30 9 am - noon Seniors Chair Yoga 11:30am-12:15pm

Open 9 am - noon

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

4

5

Open 9 am - noon League Bowling

Open 9 am - noon

11 Open 9 am - noon League Bowling

Open 9 am - noon

18 Open 9 am - noon League Bowling

19

Open 9 am - noon 26

Open 20 9 am - 3 pm Curling 10-noon Bingo 1 - 3 pm

Games Night 6 - 10 pm

Closed

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

7

Games Night 6 - 10 pm

Games Night 6 - 10 pm

Closed

Boxing Day

Pot Luck 5 pm

Open 13 9 am - 3 pm Curling 10-noon Bingo 1 - 3 pm

Open 27 9 am - 3 pm Curling 10-noon Bingo 1 - 3 pm

Christmas Day

25

12

SATURDAY

Open 6 9 am - 3 pm Curling 10-noon Bingo 1 - 3 pm

14

21

28

Games Night 6 - 10 pm

SATURDAY

31

DECEMBER 2019 Calendar of Events SUNDAY

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Boxing Day

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December 2019

Page 23

As his undertaker, what would you recommend I buy Murray for Christmas? man (or woman) who has everything.

On a happy note, you’ll be pleased to discover that my suggested gift will cost you nothing! And, after Murray’s initial shock wears off, he will most likely find tremendous value in your gift to him. He may even want to give the very same gift back to you, again at no charge!

Well Alice, that’s a pretty The gift I’m referring unusual question to ask to is the “Easy as 1-2-3 Murray’s mortician. I’m Planning Sheet.” It asks guessing Murray’s drawMurray about 20 simple ers are filled with socks, questions about himself underwear and ties from (e.g. his mother’s maiden Christmases past and name, his date and place of you’ve turned to me in birth, etc.) and a couple of desperation. In the spirit questions about his cremaof Christmas, I will try to tion or funeral wishes. It help you find a gift for the suggests that he keep his

social insurance number, personal health number and birth certificate handy, along with his Will and the marriage certificate. I predict that if you give the Easy as 1-2-3 to Murray as a stocking stuffer, he’ll have his sheet all filled out before he finishes his first eggnog on Christmas morning. It may take him a little while to find the birth certificate though. He probably cracked his social insurance card decades ago, but he has most likely memorized the number.

You’ll probably have to help him find the marriage certificate, Alice.

Why is the “1-2-3 Planning Sheet” a perfect (although perhaps a bit

morbid) gift for Murray?

Because it’s going to save YOU, Alice, a lot of stress when Murray’s eventual day arrives. That’s because — right after Murray dies — the funeral director is going to ask you the same 20 questions about Murray! If you simply pull out Drake’s Easy as 1-2-3 Planning Sheet the arrangement will flow so much more smoothly and be much less stressful. I say that with confidence because I’ve seen hundreds of people get stressed out as they search Murray’s drawers for the information I need following his death. This can be especially stressful if your children or the Executor are the ones searching

for the information. On the other hand, I’ve seen many people walk in with the “1-2-3” and have a much more relaxing meeting. A lot of people fill out the “1-2-3” and drop it off at the funeral home. Or, they fill it out online. Then, they can forget all about it.

So, Merry Christmas to you, Alice. Enjoy your eggnog, Murray, but please take five minutes to fill out the sheet!

Physiotherapy Works!

The other gifts of all things — including to each of us and learn difficult emotions and the skill to use them to people and unexpected serve others.” events inserting A trio of my personal themselves willy-nilly tools are curiosity, a into our desire for normal whole open heart and serene lives. My approach generosity. (Oh, don’t to life has been to find worry, I do have a the purpose and meaning shadow side as well). I of my life and embrace At the end of this year grew up in a time of war whatever comes my 2019, leading up to when social controls were Christmas, human beings way. The Buddha’s first very strong. My gifts were noble truth is “suffering are finding their voices not valued but were seen (mental) is caused by and using them in mass as flaws. Learning to love wanting life to be other rallies, protests, and the tools I was given was than it is” and is buffeted marches everywhere in

by John Lennon’s famous my journey. the world. Our opinions, At Christmas, quote. “Life is what safety and livelihood are overspending on material happens to us when we threatened and humans gifts represents the are making other plans.” have become acutely Rentals starting atof$1,400 our love of /mo.

A dear Saskatoon friend enormity aware of the inequities Rentals starting at $1,400 /mo. friends and family. died last summer while I in the world. First, in a with no long term lease. Our Rentals starting $1,400 Rentals at $1,400 /mo.term culture hasat a rigid set of /mo. my daughter climate ofstarting government withwas novisiting long lease. with no long term lease. standards about what duplicities, the “me too” with no long term lease.and family. He and I had Christmas should look movement burst free, the a date set for coffee—we hadn’t seen each other like but in our busy and Ontario floods escalated 3 yearsatand I was /mo. frenzied life, while trying an awareness of climate Rentalsfor starting $1,400 forward to seeing to meet those standards, change and global with nolooking long term lease. him. He had helped me warming, the election perhaps we could pause through some rough heightened the extent and give our personal stuff. The day I arrived, and definition of racism, gifts, the ones free to give an e-mail informed me and recently a CBC — a willingness to listen he had died but it was study revealed frequent to a friend, spending not too late to attend his bullying and assaults time with a lonely person, in schools. Mostly we funeral. I was profoundly an invitation for a meal are shocked at each affected by his sudden to someone who might be revelation. death but he left a gift. In alone for Christmas, or a My column offers the back of his memorial generosity that matches insights into the inner card he said, “At birth our unique tools and landscapes of our we are given a toolbox connects us to others— psychology and emotions with universal survival gifts that help us through as they connect to the tools such as the flight difficult times that may social and communal or fight response that include a loss of material aspects of our lives. allows a single person to things and people we take Generally I’ve stayed lift the front end of a car for granted, the people away from politics and so another person can be that feed our soul, whose financial issues. But pulled out from under it eyes light up when they it’s not any secret that or feeds our natural fear see us and who build our I’m a feminist, a tree of spiders and snakes. hugger and a Buddhist sense of belonging to one But we must discover the practitioner hence a lover extra set of tools unique another.

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BRING YOUR FRIENDS & YOUR APPETITE!

Kamloops Social Club provides activities & get-togethers for members to socialize, have fun and make new friends. Our monthly dances are open to the public.

Other activities for members include potlucks, appie nights at various pubs, dining out, hiking, easy-terrain bike rides, snowshoeing, X-country skiing & other social get-togethers proposed by members. Our themed potlucks are in September, December and March.

Meetings followed by a social are every other month at 7pm at the Oddfellows Hall, 423 Tranquille Rd. We welcome new friends to join us. FMI, check our website: www. kamloopssocialclub.com. or call Bonnie at 250-319-8510.

Join us as we continue our search in Genealogy! The Kamloops Family History Society meetings take place at Heritage House in Riverside Park on the fourth Thursday of each month from

573-2988.

Kamloops Floor Curlers meet Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Heritage House, top floor, Riverside Park. New members always welcome. Free parking for members. No special equipment needed. New teams are drawn each day.

There are two games and coffee each day. The group runs all year. Call Kay at 250376-0917, Kay at 250-8280819 or Liz at 250-372-5493.

Kamloops Street Rod Association meets: Dec 4 - A&W Valleyview, Dec 11 - A&W Northshore, Dec 18 - A&W Valleyview. FMI call Rae at 250-374-5251 or Brian at 250-851-0586.

Excelsior Rebekah Lodge No.23: General meeting second Tuesday of every month 7:30 p.m. Regular meeting fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. 423 Tranquille Rd. Multiple Myeloma Support Group for Kamloops and Region.

Zone 8 55+ participants enjoy another successful year Submitted by Linda Haas Congratulations to these hard-working members who were re-elected to the Zone 8 Executive Committee at our AGM on Oct. 17: Phil Maher, 1st VicePresident; Sharon Green, Treasurer; and Judith Urquhart, Secretary, as well as the other members of the executive, sport event coordinators and area reps who continue to serve Zone 8 of the B.C. Senior Games Society. We are grateful for all the volunteers who support our organization, promoting wellness of mind and body through physical, mental and social activities. We are still short a sport coordinator for Slo-Pitch.

Please let Peter Hughes 778-471-1805 or zone8pres.peterhughes@shaw.ca know as soon as possible that you, too, can be a star in Zone 8.

Following the AGM on Oct. 17, members and guests enjoyed a great Chinese buffet at the Lotus Inn restaurant. At this fund-raising lunch, Zone 8 benefited from the support of those who took part in all the fun activities and three who couldn’t attend made donations. In the silent auction, high bid by Leanne Coster won the flower afghan, and by Heather Sinclair who won the portable stove and one of the candy guesses; Candace Reklinski out-guessed the rest for the other candy jar. Congratulations to Maxine Sealock who shared the pot for $150, and to the bucket auction winners, John Hind, Judith Urquhart, Leanne Coster x2, Kevin Scallon, Bill Sealock, Paul Quesnel, Heather Sinclair x2, Sharon March, Tony Haas, and Isabel McGrath. A HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who donated items. The $575 raised will help with our operational expenses in 2019-20.

Our next meeting takes place March 19, 2020 at Chief Louis Centre. We thank the Tk’emlups Indian Band for welcoming us and allowing us to hold our monthly meetings in their great facility.

Please note that there will be no

TAKE & BAKE MEALS BCLC License #70136. Must be over 19 to play.

7:00 to 9:00 P.M. (September to May, except December) coffee and pastry will be available. FMI contact Connie at 250-852-3218.

The number of Canadians living with end-stage kidney disease has grown 35 per cent since 2008; 46 per cent of new patients are under the age of 65. If you are one of those people, or someone else who has been impacted by kidney disease, the Kamloops Kidney Support Group is here for you. We meet on the second Saturday and the second Wednesday of every month.

There isn’t anything formal about KKSG. We have coffee, maybe some breakfast, and talk about life and kidneys.

You won’t get any medical advice, but we will be there to share our experiences and offer our support, whether you are pre-dialysis or on dialysis, a kidney donor or a recipient, a family member, or anything in between. For more information, call Edna Humphreys at 250-376-6361 or Dorothy Drinnan at 250-

From left to right are 4x400m power walk relay Zone 8 gold medalists: Tony Haas, Randy Heighton, Mel Doherty, Alan Vyse.

February meeting to help diminish winter travel anxiety, especially for those coming in from our outposts such as Lillooet, Lytton Merritt, Valemount, Clearwater, and Revelstoke, as well as all points in between.

We wish all those 55+, and those who can’t wait to be 55 so they, too, can take part in the exciting 55+ BC Games, a happy and safe holiday season. Looking forward to seeing you next year, we leave you with these words of wisdom not only which benefit senior folks, but which when practised, provide an excellent model for the younger generations: Be generous with your thanks, never letting even the smallest act of kindness slip by unacknowledged; show appreciation in every way you can; and walk through life with a grateful heart.

December 2019 Meetings will be scheduled at the Kamloops Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre once an agenda is in place for a meeting and/or a speaker have been arranged. If you are interested, please contact one of the following people and provide us with your email address (or phone number) and we will notify you of future meetings.

Bob T.: ridgerunner@telus. net 250-376-3292; Anne E. akevenrude@shaw. ca 250-372-8077; Bob H. rhamaguchi@shaw.ca 250-374-6754.

The Afternoon Auxiliary to RIH Thrift Seller is open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located at 146 Victoria St. We welcome you to come shop, donate or volunteer.

Alzheimer Caregiver and Early Support Stage groups meets the second Thursday of the month, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the fourth Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Alzheimer Society Resource Centre, 405, 235 – 1st Ave. For more information please contact Tara Hildebrand, support and education coordinator Alzheimer Society of B.C. at 250-377-8200.

Army Navy & Airforce Veterans in Canada - Unit 290. ANAVETS by the river is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans and the community. We are located at #9-177 Tranquille Rd. Contact info: 250554-2455 anavets290.ca.

The club is open 7 days a week. On Wednesdays fun darts starts at 1 p.m. and welcomes everyone. We have our karaoke on Friday nights at 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday meat draws at 3 p.m.

Everyone is welcome.

Council of Canadians meets at 5.30 p.m. on the

Page 25 second Wednesday of every month at the Smorgasbord Deli, 225 - 7th Ave. Please join us. Call Anita or Dalton at 250-377-0055 or 250377-0055. You can also visit kamloopscanadians.ca.

Tuesday afternoon cribbage takes place at 1:30 p.m. at McArthur Park Lawn Bowling clubhouse, next to Norbrock Stadium. Come for crib, coffee & good company.

Free parking. Call 250-5790228, 250-579-8259 or 250376-0917.

Do you enjoy singing in harmony and a great variety of songs? Kamloops Happy Choristers invites new members who are 55 and over for a social atmosphere and a chance to sing for senior residences and public concerts. We meet every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Heritage House.

For more information call Sharon at 250-579-9505.

North Kamloops Elks, #102-1121-12th St. 250-3762924. Call us and see what we do. Meeting at 7 p.m. 3rd Monday of each month. CribTues & Wed, 7 p.m. Everyone welcome.

Kamloops Elks Lodge #44 meets at 7:30 p.m. every second Thursday of each month at 622 Tranquille Rd. We have served the community since 1920. You are invited to come and meet the members. New members are welcome. The hall is also available for gatherings, meetings, etc. For any inquiries please call 250-3122584 or 250-573-4632.

Kamloops Heritage Model Railroad Club meets on the first Friday of each month at 7 p.m. Come and investigate a great hobby.

Call 250-554-3233 FMI. Kamloops Prostate Cancer Support Group meet at 10 a.m. on the third

Saturday of the month at The Seniors Activity Centre, 9A-1800 Tranquille Rd. Phone 250-376-4011 or email larubekam1947@gmail.com Kamloops Stamp Club meets at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month (except July) at Southwest Community Church, corner of Summit and Hugh Allen Drives (go south on the 5A).

FMI 250-314-1021.

The World Famous City of Kamloops Rube Band practices every Monday (except holidays), 7:30 to 9:30 pm at the Yacht Club, 1140 River Street. Anyone interested in ‘unplugging’ and wanting to interact with people instead by having fun with music is invited to join the band. No auditions - all skill levels are welcome, although having a sense of humour will prove to be a great asset. Check out the web site kamloopsrubeband. org and find us on Facebook.

FMI please call Terry Phillips 250.374.1606 Kamloops Stroke Recovery Branch meets at Riverbend Seniors Community at 10:30-1 p.m. on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Email:

kamloopsstrokerecovery@ gmail.com or phone Ashley at 604 376-7552.

Kamloops United Church Thrift Shop, 421 St. Paul St. To volunteer, call 250-3723020. New items daily, great prices! Different specials every day, Check us out.

The Kamloops Breast Cancer Support Group meets at Kamloops United Church - Ponderosa Room the 3rd Monday of each month at 7 p.m. The support group is for all women at any stage of their breast cancer journey whether newly diagnosed or years out of treatment.

St. Paul’s Cathedral Thrift Shop 360 Nicola St is open Fridays 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Sept. to June. Handicapped access from the alley between Nicola and St. Paul.

Kamloops Antiques, Collectibles and Heritage Club meets on the second Thursday of every month.

September – June at Heritage House on Lorne Street, Riverside Park 7 p.m. Guests and new members welcome.

FMI call: 250-372-0468 Bernice or 250-377-8364 Joyce.

Diabetes Support: There are two support groups in Kamloops. RiverBend (760

Mayfair St), last Tuesday/ mo., ph: 778-470-8316 for details; and, Hamlets (3255 Overlander Dr.), first Monday/mo. (except July & Aug.), ph: 250-579-5707 for details. Open to all and features monthly speakers.

Interior Authors Group Interested in writing?

Maybe you’d like to join us.

We’re people who love to write in all styles, forms, and genres. We’re aspiring authors, veteran authors, and everything in between.

If you want to learn more about the craft of writing, or about publishing and self-publishing, or anything else related to writing, come check us out. Meetings are the second Wednesday of every month except July and August, 6:30 pm at North Shore Community Centre (in Cottonwood Manor), #307-730 Cottonwood Ave. Driving directions: North on Tranquille, left on Poplar, right on willow, left on cottonwood. FMI visit interiorauthorsgroup. wordpress.com/about/ or look for Interior Authors Group on Facebook. Or contact Elma 250 374-1750, elmams@shaw.ca The Kamloops Tai Chi Club is a member–driven

Hello December Christmas on the Shore

Gingerbread House Competition

NSBIA Annual Family Event 115 Tranquille Road December 7 • 4:30pm

The following Christmas

BC Wildlife Park • Dec 13 - Jan 5

Kamloops Heritage Railway

Sunpeaks Holiday Kick Off

Christmas Train

Continued from page 20 Tresna’s delicate health failed and her ethereal appearance ebbed. Angela mourned deeply when her pale young former student died. The following Christmas, Angela honoured her sacred promise and returned to the quaint village where Tresna had lived and loved and served. In the spirit of the season, and as a memorial, Angela graciously took part in the Batak Tribe’s traditional yuletide festivities. Stories were shared among all the village folks, and Angela understood why Tresna had chosen to study so hard; for, true to her word, she dedicated her life to teaching and inspiring young people, in her village high school in Porsea Indonesia, to recognize the importance of learning.

PETER OLSEN

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fashioned with pigeon tail-feathers, resounded in a unique combo of sounds and melodies.

The magical atmosphere at sundown brought Angela to her knees to respectfully acknowledge the gracious hosts, families and friends so dear to her friend Tresna. Finally, copying the gesture of other guests, she folded her hands near her heart and spoke her farewell thanks and season greetings, “Good bye, and terima kasih, selamat Hari Natel.”

As Angela’s driver opened the door of his Kijang, Tresna anxiously jumped to her feet and urged, “Come next time to Christmas again, Miss Angela. Promise!”

“I will! I promise!”

Many months passed.

non profit group. We meet Tuesday evenings, 7-8:30 p.m., St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 1136 6thAve. Experience the benefits of tai chi and qigong: increased flexibility, balance and agility. To join our class, email: kamloopstaichi@ gmail.com Ping-Pong is billed as a brain sport. It is also said it could be the elixir of youth and it brings a lot more to the table. We meet Tuesdays 7 to 9 p.m. and Thursdays 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Desert Garden Community Centre, 540 Seymour Street. We welcome more players. Drop in fee is $2. Having fun is something we did all the time, why change with age? FMI call 250-372-3965.

The Connector would like to feature your group!

Please send a photo and a short write up describing the activities of your group to editor@connectornews.ca.

Submissions will be published as space permits. Changes to your regular listing should also be emailed to editor@ connectornews.ca and again, listings are published space permitting. If your listing doesn’t appear one month we will do our best to cycle it back in the next.

www.kamrail.com 250-374-2141

PETER OLSEN

December 14 & 15 www.sunpeaksresort.com SUN PEAKS RESORT

CP Holiday Train Featuring Terri Clark & Dallas Smith

Breakfast with Santa

December 15 • 4:30 PM Sandman Centre Parking Lot

The Coast Hotel December 22 • 10am www.eventbrite.ca

CP

TODD

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MLA KamloopsSouth Thompson 446 Victoria Street Kamloops, BC V2C 2A7 todd.stone.mla@leg.bc.ca toddstonemla.ca PH: 250-374-2880

PETER

MILOBAR

MLA KamloopsNorth Thompson 618B Tranquille Road Kamloops, BC V2B 3H6 peter.milobar.mla@leg.bc.ca petermilobarmla.ca PH: 250-554-5413

December 2019

Page 26

Walk gently this month Colouring outside the lines Rev. Leann Blackert, Wild Church

Deck the halls with boughs of holly. ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Fa la la la la …

Everywhere we go there are reminders that December is the month of celebration: lights, tinsel, garlands, candles and big bright decorations.

It is a month filled with special festivals and celebrations in many faith traditions: Christmas for Christians, Kwanzaa for members of the African diaspora, Hanakkuh – the Festival of Lights for Jews, and the winter solstice (Saturnalia, Yule, Longest Night). Many of these festivals and celebrations

incorporate candles and a celebration of light because in the northern hemisphere December is the season of shorter days and longer nights. It is the season of darkness.

For many people, the long dark days of December, coupled with a world that drips in festive joy, can be the most difficult season.

Darkness magnifies our grief, our sadness, our loneliness.

In our Wild Church gatherings we encourage participants to walk gently on the land, noting that we are guests in the home of the trees, the birds, the animals, and other living beings. This December I encourage you to walk gently in this world, recognizing that we are surrounded by those who are struggling.

Walk gently if your server spills a bit of coffee or forgets your cutlery.

She may be working her second job of the day in

order to afford her rent and a few small presents to put under the tree for her children.

Walk gently if someone cuts you off in traffic. He may be hurrying to the care facility to spend the last few hours of life with his mother.

Walk gently with the young person walking down the street, eyes glued to the cell phone in their hands. They may be checking Google maps to find the location of the non-profit where they have offered to donate their time and energy for others.

Walk gently with the grumpy guy who scowls at you when you hold the door for him. He may be living his first holiday season without his wife.

Walk gently with the one who slowly sorts through her purse, seeking its bottom depths for her wallet, when she is holding it in her other hand. She may have just been diagnosed with a terminal disease.

Walk gently with the one who looks different than you. Skin tone, native language, traditional dress – these ways that define us as

other mask the reality that we are each a human being doing the best we can in a world that can be difficult on the best of days.

Walk gently this month. December’s bright lights and festive music hide the world of darkness that many walk in daily. We often rush through our days without really seeing one another – and without knowing the stories of those we meet. William Stafford has some advice for us: If you don’t know the kind of person I am and I don’t know the kind of person you are a pattern that others made may prevail in the world and following the wrong god home we may miss our star… …For it is important that awake people be awake, or a breaking line may discourage them back to sleep;

the signals we give – yes or no, or maybe – should be clear: the darkness around us is deep.

Walk gently this month.

During these long dark days of December, be a gift to others. Be a small bit of light because the darkness around us is indeed deep. And we don’t want to miss our star.

Rev LeAnn Blackert is in ministry with the new Wild Church in Kamloops (wildchurchbc. org), where she works with Michele Walker and Lesly Comrie. LeAnn loves the arrival of the winter solstice, long walks through local parks, connecting with others in the natural world, and the wild hills that surround Kamloops.

She loves sunny days filled with colour and light and dark nights which reveal the brilliance of a star-filled universe.

Church Directory Kamloops Roman Catholic Parishes Christmas and New Years Mass Times

• • • •

SACRED HEART CATHEDRAL 255 Nicola Street – 372-2581 Christmas Eve 5:00, 8:00 pm and 12:00 Midnight (All at Cathedral) Christmas Day ......... 8:30 & 11:30 am New Year’s Eve .................... 5:00 pm New Year’s Day........ 8:30 & 11:30 am

HOLY FAMILY 2797 Sunset Drive – 372-0205 • Christmas Eve ... 7:00 pm (Children’s Mass) & 10:00 pm • Christmas Day ................... 10:30 am • New Year’s Day .................. 10:30 am ST. GEORGE’S PARISH BARRIERE • Christmas Eve ..................... 4:00 pm • New Year’s Eve .................... 4:00 pm

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP 635 Tranquille Rd – 376-5541 • Christmas Eve 5:00 pm (Family Mass Parish Centre) and 8:00 pm (in Church) • Christmas Day ........8:30 & 10:30 am • New Year’s Eve .................... 5:00 pm • New Year’s Day .......8:30 & 10:30 am ST. JOHN VIANNEY 2826 Bank Rd – 579-8711 • Christmas Eve 5:30 pm (Christmas hymns & music begin at 4:45 pm–please join) • Christmas Day .................... 10:30 am • New Year’s Day................... 10:30 am SUN PEAKS SUN PEAKS DELTA • Christmas Eve ..................... 4:00 pm

OUR LADY OF LOURDES Heffley Creek - 579-8711 • Christmas Eve ..................... 8:00 pm • New Year’s Day..................... 8:30 am ST. JOSEPH’S 200 Chilcotin – 372-2581 • Christmas Day ..................... 1:00 pm • New Year’s Day..................... 1:00 pm BLESSED SACRAMENT Chase • Christmas Eve .................... 8:00 pm at Chase Native Spiritual Centre (across the bridge) • Christmas Day ..................... 9:00 am (at Blessed Sacrament) • New Year’s Day .................... 9:00 am (at Blessed Sacrament)

COMMUNITY CHURCH 344 Poplar

A Place to Belong!

UNITED CHURCHES OF CANADA

Sunday Service 11:00 am Sunday School 11:45 am

Kamloops United Church

Please check out our website for any upcoming events

250-554-1611 www.kamsa.ca

www.kamloopsunited.ca 421 St. Paul St. • Sundays 10 am Rev. Dr. Michael Caveney

Mt. Paul United Church

www.mtpauluc.ca 140 Laburnum St. • Sundays 10 am

Plura Hills United Church

www.plurahillsunited.com 2090 Pacific Way • Sundays 10 am

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December 2019

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rance better for B.C.

HUB International Insurance Brokers

Merry Christmas

em back on track and better for B.C.,

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December 4, 2019 marks theelse, 17th year that we have hosted the HUB International RCMP Seniors people you live with, your employees and anyone at thethan Colombo like friends or relatives, whoChristmas use yourDinner car more 12 Lodge. This is a wonderful evening where 425 members of our Seniors Community attend, have a wonderful Christmas dinner (turkeys donated by Save On Foods) days in a year.

How to list drivers on

enjoy complimentary photos with Santa courtesy of London Drugs Photo Lab and of course have their served by the off duty Members of the Kamloops RCMP dressed in their Red Serge! yourmeals policy

When you visit your Autoplan broker to renew or buy For manylicence the highlight of the night takes place when the RCMP stand on the stage and we sing insurance, please bring the driver’s number a number of Christmas with them! Due to the overwhelming demand for tickets we have and date of birth of each driver you want to list carols on your decided to addyou’ll a second for the 2020. Mark your calendar as Tuesday December 1 and Wednesday policy. To list out-of-province drivers alsonight need December 2, 2020 will be the confirmed dates. jurisdiction of their licence (for example, Alberta) and their full name.

For those who attempted to secure tickets this year on the date they went on sale and were unsuccessful, our sincerest apologies – we had allocated some pre ticket sales which eroded the New discounts number of tickets that were available at the door. This combined with opening our doors twenty The new insurance model also includes two new minutes early caused this event to sell out in under 30 minutes. We have listened to the suggestions discounts: 10% off for vehicles driven less than 5,000 made and will have a much better format for selling tickets in 2020; with two nights, we can now km per year, and 10% off for vehicles with autonomousaccommodate over 800 guests!

emergency braking (AEB).

Keeping our ticket prices as low as possible would not be possible without the help of our generous

How to check if these apply to you sponsors listed below. Please take a moment of your time to support these local businesses.

If your car is driven less than 5,000 km in a year, please bring a current photo of the odometer reading yourand friends and all the best to you and your loved ones in the New Enjoy your Christmas withto family Autoplan broker. You can also check your ownership Year. We look forward to hosting two dinners next year! manual, or call your dealership, to see if your car has factory-installed autonomous emergency braking.

Ho Ho Ho,

Find out more

The entire staff at HUB International Insurance

To learn more about these changes and what they mean for you, visit icbc.com/change. Once you get your renewal reminder, you can also access our online estimation tool to pre-list drivers and get a better idea of what your premium might be before visiting your broker.

December 2019

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his time of year is many things to many people and not all celebrate the way that we do. Over the past few years, as our children have grown, our family has changed the way we celebrate the day. Ours was a blended family and we had to share the holiday – this made us realize that we could rejoice as a family on December 25th or one of the surrounding days.

It didn’t matter when - as long as we were together.

Celebrations now, are more about the people than the presents and because our expertise is in hearing, and we know how isolating this can be, we make a big effort to make sure that everyone is included.

It seems that all year long we are talking about one holiday or another. And I tell you, when you have long-term staff, they get a lot of holidays! So much so, that we’ve had to hire extra staff just to cover for them. Lynda has been with us for 15 years now, she was lucky enough to accompany her husband on a work trip/vacation to Columbia for some of her time off. Joanne is going on to 18 years with us this coming spring. She was able to spend time with her family by combining her vacation days, and the ability to utilize the internet, and work from the lake most of the summer.

Wyatt, who is now in his second year with our company, bought a house this year. His vacation budget was pretty much spent but he did however manage to make it to Vancouver Island for a family reunion. If you haven’t been in lately, you may not have met Anna and Anita. They’re here to cover for holidays and support ourselves and the rest of our staff. It’s a small office and we all work closely together; we consider ourselves lucky to have such caring individuals in our work family.

Our spring continuing education conference at Starkey headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota reaffirmed our beliefs. The theme of the conference was Back to Basics. I’m not sure that you know this but the owner of Starkey, Bill Austin, is the inventor of the custom in-the-ear hearing aids and his company is the only privately-owned major manufacturer of hearing aids in the world. This works well for us because Starkey knows the importance of supporting independent, family-owned businesses like ours.

Back to Basics took us right back to the beginning of our training and reviewed practices and procedures that keep the hearing aid in your ears rather than out for repair. It was a great learning opportunity for Dillan to be trained, like I was so many years ago, directly from the manufacturer.

Dillan has been with us for three years now and has shown that he is eager and willing to take on responsibility. This proved to be invaluable this year and we experienced the loss of Blaine’s father. His passing was unexpected, as he was only 70 years, and left a large void in our family dynamic. Blaine felt that he needed to be closer to his mom and our family and decided to move back to Kamloops full time. We couldn’t leave our Penticton office without a hearing instrument practitioner and this created a huge opportunity for Dillan to take on added responsibility. He moved to Penticton in September.

We take comfort in knowing that his values and work ethic align with our own. With modern technology we are just a video call away if he requires any assistance.

We were confident that Dillan was doing well but our suspicions were confirmed at a wedding this fall.

A lot of you still remember my mentor and previous business partner Al Hodgson. His daughter Katie got married this year. At the wedding, we spent some time talking to Al’s mom. She lives in Summerland and was just fit for new hearing aids by Dillan. She wanted to tell us that Dillan is a lovely young man and she was extremely happy with his work. This means a lot as her husband Lee Hodson opened our Penticton office in the late 60’s and two of her sons and her son-in-law all worked in the industry.

To say that we’ve been busy this year is putting it lightly. We find our priorities have shifted and spending our free time with our loved ones has become more and more a focus in our lives. Our friends have felt our absence and wanted to do something to spend time with us. They planned a group trip to Puerto Vallarta for all of us.

This was a much-needed vacation. We spent lots of time by the pool and just relaxing. We ziplined, watched a parade, went to the cemetery for the Mexican holiday “Day of the Dead”. Funny how small

How to make the holidays better for someone with hearing loss: • Space your words, louder is not always better.

• Noisy crowds can become overwhelming for someone who wears a hearing aid. You must be looking at each other and be sure that the hearing aid wearer knows that you are speaking to them specifically.

• Remember that hearing aids are designed for conversational speech. If you have repeated yourself twice, don’t repeat a third time. Instead, change your wording.

the world is though, although we were over 4000 kilometers away from Kamloops, we ran into clients at our resort from both Kamloops and Penticton. Our clients were certainly happy to see us – in fact one of them was struggling with a hearing aid that had a broken receiver. I tried my best to fix it for him but in the end, he had to put it away. This makes me think that if you are heading to sunnier climates this year don’t forget to stop by and get us to service your hearing aids before you go. You’ll want to pack your hearing aid desiccant (Dri Aid jar) too. Blaine even invented a new Spanish phrase for our sweating – “muy dripioso”. We’ll know not to go to Mexico on the edge of rainy season next year!

As we head into the gift giving season, if you are looking for a last-minute gift for the person with hearing issues we can help. We have signalling devices for telephones, smoke detectors, baby monitors, alarm clocks and more. These can be extremely useful during the night when your loved one is not wearing their hearing devices. We also carry many forms of hearing protection and swim and sleeper molds. We offer gift certificates in any denomination.

You won’t need hearing protection at our 18th Annual Christmas Tea and Sing. It’s good oldfashioned fun with eggnog and fresh baked treats.

Please consider stopping in to our office, it’s a great opportunity to pick up batteries and make sure your hearing aids are in top condition for the social moments this holiday season. This year it’s being held on Friday, December 20th from 1pm to 4pm. Blaine and his faithful sidekick Marty will be crooning a Christmas tune or two… or twelve!

Once again, I have to thank you for your friendships and in the spirit of the holidays, we all wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year!

Jan

• If you are hosting a Christmas gathering, keep the music low if someone who is hard of hearing will be attending.

414 Arrowstone Drive, Kamloops, BC

250.372.3090 Toll Free 1.877.718.2211 Email: info@kamloopshearingaidcentre.ca or online at: Christmas Hours: Christmas Eve 8:30-12:00, Christmas Day & Boxing Day CLOSED, New Years Eve 8:30-3:00, New Years Day CLOSED

KamloopsHearingAidCentre.ca

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