vision leading the way

PUBLISHED BY

V I S I O N2013

at the HEART of it

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YourNewsNow.ca

V2 The Daily News, Kamloops WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013

HIS YEAR MARKS THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF Rapid Cool Mechanical in Kamloops. But don’t expect balloons and cake.

“It’s business as usual,” said co-owner Steve Warner. “We’ve had two good decades in Kamloops and we expect several more, doing what we do best.”

Rapid Cool started as a refrigeration company servicing cooling units on highway refrigerated trailers and air conditioning on heavy equipment.

“Refrigeration is where we started,” said original owner James Carr, “and is still at the root of what we do.”

But as the company grew, forced air heating and air conditioning became a large part of its business. Residential and commercial customers turned to Rapid Cool for their heating and cooling needs. Air-source heat pumps, geothermal and plumbing have also become a large part of the business.

With all the rebates that are available for making your home more energy effi cient, there are defi nite advantages to updating your home’s heating system. Replacing that old furnace and air conditioner with high-effi ciency equipment will not only save you money on monthly utility costs, it will increase your home’s comfort. Rebates from provincial government, as well as factory and other rebates, can add up to more than $2,500 on a new furnace and heat pump.

“That can be a good portion of a new system,” said Steve. “Add that to the utility savings and it can mean a return on investment of up to 10 per cent. That’s a lot better than money sitting in the bank at less than three per cent return.”

The service department handles all types of calls for residential and commercial customers.

“We fi x and service everything including plumbing repairs or renovations, hot water tanks, furnaces, geothermal equipment and heat pumps to walk in coolers and freezers,” said service manager Shaun Yelland.

Keeping the schedule running smoothly and helping customers is a full time job. With a service territory covering the central Interior, keeping track of technicians and job locations is important to being an effi cient team. Yearly service plans are also available to save customers money and keep their equipment running effi ciently.

The company’s 20 employees have skilled trade tickets in refrigeration, plumbing, gas fi tting and sheet metal. The parts department also has a large inventory of furnace fi lters for all sizes of residential and commercial equipment.

Rapid Cool is a long-standing member of the Canadian Home Builders Association Central Interior.

RAPID COOL765 Notre Dame Dr

250-374-6858www.rapidcool.ca

TRapid Cool: 20 years of excellence

Rapid Cool mechanical

co-owners, Steve Warner, left, and

James Carr.

“Keeping the schedule running smoothly and helping customers is a full time job.

KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT

V3The Daily News, KamloopsWEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013

HE KAMLOOPS DAILY NEWS HAS BEEN AT THE heart of the community for more than 75 years – and continues to fi nd new and exciting ways to adapt its mission of informing Kamloops for the digital future. The Daily News is read in print by more than 78 per cent of all adults in Kamloops every week according to the NADBank research study. Its website at www.YourNewsNow.ca, is Kamloops’s most widely read news portal with more than 750,000 pageviews monthly, including more than 200,000 views from users on mobile devices.

Its latest innovation brings the print and mobile digital worlds together, with the launch in March 2013 of the world’s fi rst augmented reality-enabled daily newspaper.

The Daily News, through its parent company, Glacier Media, Western Canada’s largest local media company, has teamed up with Layar, an industry

leader in the rapidly emerging fi eld of augmented reality (AR). Smartphone users can now use the Layar app (available free on your iPhone, iPad or Android mobile device) to scan stories, photos and advertisements in the Daily News and watch them come to life right on the screen, with audio and video content, the ability to share content on social networks or connect directly with advertisers and even buy goods through mobile commerce, right on the page.

The Daily News is thankful for its strong support from the community and believes in giving back. Each year it

donates more than $500,000 in in-kind advertising space to more than 100 community groups and organizations, and also promotes literacy and community health through its three signature events: the annual Raise-a-Reader initiative, the Daily News Christmas Cheer Fund and the Daily News Boogie.

TA newspaper for the future

KAMLOOPS DAILY NEWS393 Seymour St. 250-372-2331

www.kamloopsnews.ca

ITY COUNCIL HALFWAY THROUGH ITS THREE-YEAR term, some priorities have been met while others are still waiting in the wings. The Daily News asked Mayor Peter Milobar about the City’s direction at the mid-way point.

Q. What is council’s vision for Kamloops in the coming months? What about the next few years?

A: I think the budget’s really dominated the whole look right now. I guess that’s going to be telling tale as we move forward over the next few months, how we come to grips with cost pressures and things like that. We have to juggle budgets every year, without affecting quality of life.

Everything comes down to the ability to pay. The performing arts centre is going to be a signifi cant discussion over the next year and a half or so. It will depend on numbers and whether people support the concept or not. Council’s been clear, it’s not an at-any-cost situation.

We’ll take a cursory look at airport corridor and decide if it’s short or long term project.

Q. What are your personal priorities to the end of this election term?

A. I think we’re on the right path with a lot of smaller stuff, the nice to dos that don’t cost a lot of money. We’ve been working with community associations, seeing some positive results with that, support, capacity building. Staff have provided support with big returns, building capacity within the volunteer groups.

Q. This year’s Vision theme is At the Heart of it. What do you think is the heart of Kamloops? What’s the heart of city hall?

A. Strictly due to geography and things like that, we have four key areas. Downtown’s always a big focus for everybody. Improvements to the North Shore market will be a nice thing to see happen in this next year. The university is a pretty major hub. And then the hospital and potential improvements there, is appropriate and it’s the geographic centre of the city. The overall heart of city hall — it sounds a bit cliché, but as someone who came to city governance from the private sector world, you have those preconceived notions of what a city worker is. When you work with them day in day out, you get to see the spectrum. I would say the staff is the heart. You see the dedication. When you’re ingrained in it, you see the thought put into things, the effort put in, I think it’s more than most people would think.

Kamloops has four hearts, city hall has one

CPETER MILOBAR

City of KamloopsMayor


Kamloops Mayor Peter Milobar.



“

HE DECISION TO MOVE TO A retirement residence can be diffi cult.

If you are seeking a level of independence and quality of life, but home upkeep and maintenance is becoming overwhelming, moving to a retirement residence could be what you are looking for.

Retirement communities are designed around the needs of seniors looking for security and services, but able to live independently. Independent retirement communities vary in cost and what they offer, so it is important to know how to fi nd the one that’s best for you.

Ridgepointe’s marketing co-ordinator Shona Cox suggests the following considerations:

What kind of suite do you want? One bedroom, one bedroom and den, or two bedroom? Full kitchen or kitchenette? Walk-in shower or bathtub? Patio or balcony?

What’s included in your monthly rent? Weekly housekeeping with towel and linen service? Air conditioning? Three meals a day? Is the menu approved by a dietician? Are there alternatives for diabetics? Are there gluten-free options?

What else is included? All utilities? Medic-alert pendant? Is there a common dining room for socializing over meals? Private dining room for quieter meals? Is there a library? A theatre

room? Exercise room? Are the grounds around the residence inviting? Is there a putting green and a driving net? Are there walking paths? Is there a tuck shop? Does the community have guest suites so family can visit overnight? Are there computer stations? Is there an all-day café? Is there reception staff available around the clock with video surveillance in the building and on the grounds?

Are there complimentary laundry rooms? Is there a hair salon? Are there recreation programs with scheduled transportation?

Many communities offer a range of activities that enrich retirement living, including exercise programs, social gatherings, games, educational programs and scheduled outings. Ask for an activities calendar and try some activities before moving in.

“Moving to a retirement residence shouldn’t mean having to give up a beloved pet,” Shona pointed out. “Find out if the community is pet friendly and confi rm that your small dog or cat can move in with you.”

Shona also mentioned that you’ll want friendly, caring, knowledgeable staff who respect your independence and privacy and she encourages potential residents to confi rm that there are no hidden costs.

Ensure that all your questions about costs are answered clearly and confi rm exactly what is covered in the monthly fee.

Ridgepointe also guarantees your fully refundable security deposit should you not move in when expected.

It is important to compare several retirement residences and visit them to experience the sense of the community.

Talk with residents and staff: what do they like most?

Stay for a complimentary meal. Take part in or watch an

activity program.You’ll gather a lot of information on a

tour, so make sure that you are provided with an information package that covers your areas of interest.

Each retirement community has its own atmosphere and “it is important to fi nd one that is well suited for you,” said Shona. “A trial stay can be very helpful.”

Retirement residences provide more opportunities to socialize and take part in activities — take part in as much or as little as you want. Live where others share your interests so you can be independent without being alone.

Contact Shona at 250-851-8800 or email: [email protected], and check out www.ridgepointe.ca.

TRIDGEPOINTAT PINEVIEW

1789 Primrose Court 250-851-8800

www.ridgepointe.ca

Choosing your retirement community

Live where others share your interests so you can be independent without being alone.



ORE THAN 500 PEOPLE WORK AT KAMLOOPS Airport. This one fact confi rms that the airport is an important source of direct, indirect and induced employment and an economic generator for the region.

And it has been ever since April 13, 1939, when the fi rst plane landed on the new 2,800-foot gravel runway.

Fast forward to 2009 when we saw the addition of a longer runway, new terminal and sophisticated navigation aids. We can now serve 1,000 travellers a day safely and reliably.

We also saw a record 275,424 people use the facility. That’s more than three times the population of the City of Kamloops. And as for the economic impact on the region, it is signifi cant:

$440 million in GDP$728 million in economic output$308 million (directly and indirectly) in wagesKamloops Airport Ltd. works hard to bring more

and better air service to the region and today we have more air-travel options than ever before.

Last year the Airport Society and federal government invested more than $1 million in our airport.

We enhanced our safety program by hiring and training fi refi ghting staff and purchasing a new fi re truck.

Pilots like the new plow truck and new de-icing unit for improved winter reliability.

Travellers notice new convenient baggage carts and a new parking system that is easier to use and more secure;

Airlines appreciate the new apron lighting that means planes can operate even more safely.

Without the airport, tourism could not have grown to present levels: today, 60 per cent of passengers are leisure travellers.

Goods and services move quickly and effi ciently to and from our community, keeping jobs and economic growth here in Kamloops.

We look forward to another great year with more routes connecting more communities. Kamloops is not only a destination airport for leisure travellers, it’s home base for people choosing to live here and work in distant resource communities. The airport is therefore critical and makes it easier to attract professions, services and jobs.

But it’s not all business. Last year,

we supported the United Way, RIH Foundation and the Western Canada Theatre. Each of these organizations makes our community more liveable and we think they are important.

As part of an investment in the future, Kamloops Airport Ltd.’s parent company, Vantage Airport Group, offers scholarships at Thompson Rivers University in both the business and tourism management fi elds.

The airport is proud to be a part of this community and its success: we are, ”Destinations Well Delivered.” By FRED LEGACE,Manager, Kamloops Airport

Top:WestJet service is popular with tourists.

Middle and bottom:Interior renovations have created a new vibrancy at Kamloops Airport.Tourism Kamloops

KAMLOOPS AIRPORT3035 Airport Rd.250-376-3613

www.kamloopsairport.com

MYKA: Numbers are up, renovations are done

“We also saw a record 275,424 people use the facility. That’s more than three times the population of the City of Kamloops.

Kamloops Airport Manager, Fred Legace is especially proud of the First Nations art on display in the airport.

Renovations have made the arrivals area more efficient.



Andre’s Electronic Experts

SANDRE’S ELECTRONIC

EXPERTS154 Victoria Street W.

250-314-9944www.andreselectronicexperts.com

INCE ANDRE’S ELECTRONIC EXPERTS OPENED ITS fi rst Kamloops location in 2001, it has grown to fi ve outlets in Kamloops and 17 overall.

At the fl agship store, 745 Notre Dame Dr., Andre’s specializes in TVs, home audio, custom home automation, cameras, Telus service and, most recently, quality home appliances.

Andre's joined the Brand Source appliance-buying group just over a year ago to provide excellent selection of such iconic brands as Whirlpool, Kitchen Aid, Maytag, LG and Samsung.

Custom home automation is also a major growth area for the Notre Dame store. Control 4, Speaker Craft and Sono's are just a few of the brands under the one roof. In addition, all service requirements are available from Andre’s , including prewiring, home theatre, multi-zone audio/video control, specialized lighting and much more.

Downtown, the Telus business centre is at 300 St. Paul St., where the focus is on excellent service for all consumers and an added component for business customers. One of those components is a full-time learning centre specialist, and Andre’s has made that

available to all customers. Consumers can book a 50-minute learning session during which a specialist shows you the ins and outs of your new smartphone.

Also downtown, in the centre of Lansdowne Village, is Andre’s Telus, which features all Telus mobility products, home phone, high-speed Internet, satellite TV and Optik TV.

Andres Electronics Telus Corporate Sales Manager, John Mercuri, poses at the downtown location.



You’ll fi nd those same offerings at the convenient kiosk on the lower level of Aberdeen Mall, beside the centre atrium. The kiosk has been operating since 2001 and is well staffed to handle the fl ow of traffi c.

Andre's Car Audio at 154 Victoria St. West specializes in car and marine audio and puts 45 years of combined experience at your service.

That experience is hard to beat — the proof is in the numerous Canadian championships Andre’s has won for best-sounding car-audio systems.

Andre’s Car Audio looks after all aspects of car and boat audio sales, installation and fabrication, remote-start and security systems.

When It comes to brands, you fi nd the best brands in the world at the West Victoria location: Focal, Audison, Hertz, Wirez Accessories, Alpine and Kenwood.

With Andre’s state-of-the-art installation facility and manufacturers’ specially trained technicians, Andre’s is the No. 1 choice of new and used-car dealers throughout the Kamloops region.

They depend on Andre’s for the best advice from the best staff, knowing they receive honest, straight-forward responses to all their requests.

“We are proud of our diversity in Kamloops with the fi ve locations,” said Kyle Blanleil Telus Sales and Marketing Manager for Andres. “And we are very thankful to all our customers for allowing us to grow over the years and be a part of the Kamloops community.”

Andres Electronic's Senior Sales Associate, Dan Campone, shows a customer to various Ipod dock available at their store.

“That experience is hard to beat — the proof is in the numerous Canadian championships Andre’s has won for best-sounding car-audio systems.




HIS ISN’T YOUR AVERAGE STORAGE COMPANY.GO BOX is a home-grown Kamloops business, and the owners are doing their best to not only serve the moving and storage needs of customers, but also make the world a little greener. Shaen and Caroline Cooper opened GO BOX in April 2007 and business boomed right from the start. “We did the research and used the best ideas for mobile storage we could fi nd,” says Caroline, adding that as a result, “Kamloops has a cutting-edge mobile storage company.”Goboxes are big enough, offering 240 cubic feet of storage space, but not so big that items shift around during transport. When a customer orders a gobox, it is delivered to their door, allowing them time to pack away items at their leisure. Then, Shaen arrives to transport the gobox either to the new location, or back to the warehouse for storage. “In the fi rst three to four months of operation we booked out,” says Caroline. “We were 100 per-cent occupied.” Since then, the Cooper’s have built an additional warehouse and have plenty more goboxes to offer to customers. They’ve also shifted

from using a crane truck to using a truck with a self-loading forklift, meaning the goboxes can go wherever the forklift can fi t. GO BOX truly is a family-run operation, as the Cooper’s live on-site, and when they’re not assisting customers, they’re outside cultivating. “We try to grow as much food as we can, which is a bit of a feat on industrially zoned land that was once a copper and gold mine."“We’re trying to answer the question: ‘What can a corporation — and a family — do to reduce its impact on the greater environment?’ ”

GO BOX Moving & Storage

GO BOX MOVING & STORAGE

2853 Bowers Place250-374-4646

www.goboxstorage.ca

THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO MEASURE THE success of a business, but the folks at Aall Glass Ltd. choose to measure success based on the number of years they’ve been in business.

Original owner Lyle Dean opened the doors to Aall Glass 30 years ago. Back then, he ran the shop out of his basement and eventually moved to a smaller shop in Mt. Paul and concentrated mostly on windshield replacement.

These days, Dean’s daughter Tania Powell and her husband Darcy own the business — a bustling storefront and fabrication facility in the Mount Paul Industrial Park, and while windshields are still on the menu, Aall Glass does much, much more.

Aall glass focuses on all types of glass needs, from auto glass repairs and replacements, to residential and even commercial glass. From custom cut mirrors to patio doors, vinyl windows, custom showers and railings to screen repairs, Aall Glass really does do it all.

Known as the shop that has ‘Aall you need,’ Powell credits the company’s growth — they now employ 13 people — to taking pride in how well they treat customers.

“We always look after our customers,” says Powell, noting they offer a 24-hour call out service — just another way to meet customers’ needs.

And not only is Aall Glass a great company to do business with, Powell says it’s important to her that it’s also a great company to work for.

“Our staff is like family and we treat them like family.”The staff and owners of Aall Glass are thrilled to call Kamloops their

home, and look forward to serving the community in the years ahead.


Aall Glass Ltd.

AALL GLASS LTD.437 Mt. Paul Way

250-372-5177www.aallglass.com

T

NOT MANY FAMILY BUSINESSES LAST 60 years, but Big Boot Inn Shoe Store on Victoria Street turns 61 this year.

Owners Ryan and Kristen Gentile bought the retail and repair shop in 2009 from the Di Gesos, who founded it in 1952.

Big Boot Inn moved several times over the years as the business grew and better locations came available, but one constant feature is cobbler Frank Di Geso, who has retired four times but can’t stop showing up for work. “I think if he stopped working, he’d be in trouble,” laughed Ryan, who is glad to have Frank’s experience and knowledge of the business.

“We were also able to bring Luis Richard and his family from the Dominican Republic to be our full-time cobbler,” said Ryan.

Few stores do repairs these days because so much footwear is not designed to last. But an investment in good footwear is good for the feet, legs and back and the pocketbook. If you’re looking for new shoes, however, Big Boot Inn Shoe Store offers several designer lines including Michael Kors, Josef Seibel and Timberland. “Each season’s launch gets

more exciting,” said Ryan. “Ladies don’t have to go to Kelowna or Vancouver now; they can get fashionable, comfortable footwear right here.” Part of the reason for the long-term success of Big Boot Inn is its ongoing

dedication to personal service. “Staff are here to help and are knowledgeable. It’s not just about sales — we want to fi nd the right product for you, not the ‘right product’ from the backroom. We want you coming back.

Owner Ryan Gentile with staff Dorthy Jeffery, Caitlin Goulet and Melissa Zimmerman.


Big Boot Inn shoe store

BIG BOOT INN LTD.241 Victoria Street

250-372-3551www.bigbootinn.com


HETHER FOR PLEASURE OR BUSINESS YOUR stay at the Best Western Kamloops Plus is sure to be anything but standard when it comes to comfort, service, amenities and value.

Starting with the name itself, the “Plus” designation is awarded to Best Western hoteliers demonstrating outstanding achievements in Guest Services, cleanliness and providing above standard amenities and product to their guests. The 4 Green Key is provided to hoteliers for responsible environmental innovations and practices. In the case of Kamloops’ Best West Plus, these green advancements include partial geothermal heating, energy effi cient lighting, low water volume bathroom fi xtures and energy-saving sensor activated in-room heating and cooling systems.

The hotel has also recently changed its cleaning products to new natural and more eco-friendly products, reducing their use of less friendly cleaning chemicals by 95%!

As you fi rst arrive at this Three Diamond AAA, 3½ Star Canadian Star Quality hotel you will love the “Porte Cochere” where you can unload your skis, golf clubs, briefcases and luggage in the relaxed security of the impressive, fully covered, rock and earth-toned loading space.

Steps away, the friendly desk staff greet you in the luxurious comfort of the expansive lobby. Catch your breath for a few moments in one of the

many overstuffed leather sofas and chairs that surround you as you make note of the breakfast area where you are invited to kick-start your days with a sumptuous, complementary continental breakfast.

Business guests will also surely appreciate the two handy business centres, perfect for a quick fax to the offi ce or call home, conveniently located just outside the entrance to the well appointed meeting room.

Upon entering your room it is easy to see that there is also nothing “standard” about your

accommodations. Contemporary furniture featuring granite-topped desk, dresser, night stand and luggage rack; a complimentary coffee station as well as an ironing board and hairdryer are just a few of the creature comforts ensuring an exceptional experience during your stay.

In an effort to further improve guest experiences every room now features Optik TV by Telus offering over 32 channels of Hi-Def television entertainment. TV’s have also been upgraded to 42 inch plasmas and each guestroom now comes complete with individual Wi-Fi and is hardwired (no more sharing bandwidth) making our Internet Service the best in town and, of course… it’s free! It is all just part of our Best Western Plus much-more-than-standard standard.

When it is time to relax you are going to love the nicely equipped workout spa. After a good workout what could possibly be better than a soak in the soothing hot tub or a dip in the pool… and what a pool! This beautiful salt water, free-form, oasis is perfect for the whole family and features a “lazy river” plus excellent paddling areas for tots, all dominated by an expansive fl oor to ceiling mural of Mt. Peter and Mt. Paul, the artistic inspiration of local Kamloops artist Ken Wells.

These are just a few of the many reasons why Best Western Kamloops Plus, General Manager Tim Rodgers, is justifi ably proud when he says, “At Best Western Kamloops Plus, our standard amenities are anything but!”

BEST WESTERN PLUSKAMLOOPS HOTEL

660 Columbia St W,250-374-7878

bestwesternkamloops.ca

Top: New rock work at the lobby entrance.

Bottom: New murals painted by a local artist.

WOur standard amenities are anything but

“Best Western Kamloops Plus continues to offer “Anything but Standard” amenities, comfort, service and value.



F YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW EVER needed periodontal care, gum grafting or dental implants, you know that excellence is not a whim but a must. Dr. Preety Desai is committed to providing it.

“I was the fi rst periodontal specialist in Canada to implement lasers into my surgical repertoire for grafting, extractions and treatment of gum disease,” says Dr. Desai. The advantages are notable: faster recovery time, greater precision and less pain.

While Dr. Desai designs the most appropriate treatment for each patient using scientifi c methodology, three-dimensional X-ray imaging and innovative laser technology, her goal is clear: To provide her patients with customized treatment

plans in collaboration with your general dentist that has longevity and success in mind. A beautiful smile begins with healthy gums!

And care goes even deeper: When you step into Dr Desai’s Clinic at 101-775 McGill Rd., you might be startled by the lack of the “expected dentist-caused anxiety most people experience.” The décor is professionally designed and pleasing to the eye but, in this case, it’s the story behind it that makes all the difference.

“After we moved to this new location a year ago, we took our commitment to being environmentally responsible to a new level,” Dr. Desai explained. From locally made reclaimed plywood cabinets, to “green” fl oors and an almost paperless offi ce, the attention to

detail is unique. Staff are encouraged to use transit instead of driving; they are all committed to recycling, for which there was no facility in their previous downtown location. Dr Desai has also chosen the most environmentally-friendly version of an essential piece of equipment for dentists: a dry compressor, made in Canada, which uses air instead of many gallons of water that classic compressors use.

All work and no fun, you think? Hardly. “I believe in creating an environment where we are truly a team, not just work-

wise but in other things we do,” said Dr. Desai. The how-to is straightforward: clinic staff go to conferences together,

but they also do volunteer work together and they support and attend the Kamloops Film Festival, Kamloops Symphony Orchestra and other cultural events that Dr. Desai is proud to support fi nancially or by participating directly.

Care for the people and the community goes a long way for Dr. Desai, though. A member of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce, and a believer in “home is where your heart is” — both her children were born and raised in Kamloops — Dr. Desai leaves nothing to chance.

The clinic is supporting many local charities and art programs, but also youth groups, such as the YMCA/YWCA, Scouts Canada and the Jubilee Street Mission. Supporting arts and our youth to “be all that they can be” is Dr. Desai’s way of giving back to the community that welcomed her and her family with open arms when they moved to Kamloops in 1996.

Smiles all around are important at the Laser Implant and Periodontal Clinic, clinically speaking and otherwise.

Patients, from very young to very old, can call the clinic directly or get a referral from their dentist. Good hygiene and proper gum care are important at every age as dental health directly affects the health of one’s heart and lungs and is related to reducing the risk of cancer. Dr. Desai is more than happy to explain why and help you achieve optimal dental health. Contact Dr Desai at 778-471-6001 or www.kamloopsperiodontist.com or email LIPSreceptionist @gmail.com


Laser Implant Periodontal Clinic

ILASER IMPLANT

PERIODONTAL CLINIC Suite 101 - 775 McGill

778-471-6001www.kamloopsperiodontist.com

HEN CAROLYN RICHARDS DECIDED TO BUY AND operate 4th Avenue Hair & Esthetics in Sept. 2011, she knew what she wanted to do with the shop.

Renovations were in order to create a brisk atmosphere and warm ambiance. Carolyn didn’t want the shop to feel like a business; she wanted it to feel like a home, where people feel welcome and comfortable.

The updates enhanced the salon visually; then Carolyn set about creating the atmosphere she wanted.

“ We are all very friendly and welcoming here,” said Richards. “We aim to make our salon a home-like environment and I think we’ve achieved that.”

“We” includes employees Tracy and Chelsea. “Chelsea is a fully qualifi ed stylist and esthetician with 13 years experience,” said Carolyn. “She specializes in colour and texturized hair styles and is known for her artistic but practical styles.”

“Tracy is our resident esthetician, providing manicures, pedicures, facials, gel polish nails and waxing.

“She is also a registered podologist with seven years experience, and specializes in problematic and geriatric diabetic foot care.

“On top of that, she does full-body waxing, specializing in Brazilians with the less-irritating hard wax.”

As for Carolyn herself, she is an accomplished stylist and esthetician. She has been doing hair since 1999 and has earned her certifi cation as a Goldwell colourist.

Once a week, she devotes time to teach hair-dressing students and share some

of her advanced techniques in Goldwell colour, cutting, perms and Goldwell/KMS product.

She also does hair extensions and plans to expand her services to include wigs.

“On one level, we’re a beauty salon,” she said, “but it’s not all about beauty. Professional foot care for someone with problem feet is about health and well-being. Wigs are an essential service for those who have lost their hair for some medical reason.”

“We’re about making people feel good by being here, and feeling better when they leave.

“If I couldn’t make my customers happy, I’d fi nd another line of work where I could. But this is what I love.”

“And I couldn’t imagine living somewhere else. I’ve been in Kamloops since 1989 and love the people and climate. I’m exactly where I want to be.”

First, on Fourth

4TH AVENUE HAIR & ESTHETICS361 Fourth Ave.250-851-2130

W

Owner, Carolyn Richards.



EGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 1 FOR THE 14TH annual Thompson Rivers University’s WolfPack summer sports camp, sponsored the last three seasons by area McDonald’s Restaurants.

“TRU McDonald’s Sports Camps provide the highest quality programming and delivery, resulting in a positive, active sporting experience for every participant,” said Erin Connelly-Reed, who is camp co-ordinator for her second year.

Connelly Reed is a 2007 graduate of TRU’s Tourism Management program and the 2005 Sport Event Management diploma program. She also has experience as a volunteer and player in rugby, soccer, fi gure skating and baseball.

The TRU Sports Camp was created to provide instruction to aspiring athletes and provide experience for WolfPack varsity athletes who work with youngsters and earn money for the summer. It

branched out from the traditional sports — soccer, basketball and volleyball — to include football, tennis, rugby and golf.

Athletics and Recreation welcomes all youth, age 5 to 18, who are interested in participating. The camps are committed to building a healthy and active community while introducing youth to numerous athletic and academic opportunities.

Connelly-Reed wants parents to know that the camps have a great instructor-child ratio.

“In most camps, we have a 10-to-one ratio. There will be at least two instructors per group. Even if we had nine children in a certain group, we would have two instructors. For the fi ve and six year olds, there will be a one-to-seven ratio.”

Instructors at this camp include current and former TRU varsity athletes.

All of them have had volunteer or paid coaching experience. All instructors will attend a week-long training session where camper safety and development are highlighted. During this training, instructors earn their fi rst-aid certifi cation, train in anaphylaxis awareness, create summer-camp programming schedules, learn about age-appropriate drills and skills, child-development stages and specifi c safety protocols.”

Weekly Camps will run July 2 to Aug. 30 at the TRU Gym, Tournament Capital Centre, Hillside Stadium, The Dunes at Kamloops and other sites around Kamloops.

TRU WolfPack/McDonald’s Sports Camps will include high-performance camps for athletes going into or in high school and playing at the elite level. These camps will be run by WolfPack varsity coaches and will be high tempo, giving the camper the chance to learn skills and get into condition for their seasons.

The camps will also be part of the new Community U project aimed at strengthening the link between Thompson Rivers University and Kamloops residents.

You can get more information about the sports camps by going online at www.tru.ca/sportcamp or by phoning 250-852-7135.

RTRU Sport Camps: Who knows where you can go?

TRU SPORTS CAMPS250-852-7135

www.tru.ca/sportcamp

“The camps are committed to building a healthy and active community while introducing youth to numerous athletic and academic opportunities.



OW CAN ONE RAISE A HOTEL EXPERIENCE TOa new level of excellence? At Four Points by Sheraton Kamloops, actions speak louder than words. The hotel has recently invested $2 million in renovations, making the facilities suitable and comfortable for corporate travelers and families alike. All 78 rooms are pre-blocked and pre-keyed, and you have access to free wireless Internet and, should you need it, to the hotel’s own 1200-square-foot state-of-the-art conference room. Ric’s Grill next door provides Four Points customers with a generous menu and great ambiance.

The core values established 13 years ago when the hotel was put on the Kamloops map stand true today. GM Cecilia Guerrero explains: “We take pride in providing uncomplicated comfort, unequalled quality and good value for our customers.”

As for that local sense of pride? Why not. “Many of our employees are born and raised in Kamloops, and have been with us

since the beginning,” explains Guerrero. Also, she adds, “We’re honoured to be supporters of the performing arts centre and B.C. Wildlife Park.”

As one of the tourist attractions in Kamloops, the wildlife park has developed a one-of-a-kind collaboration with the hotel: The family packages include an admission pass to wildlife park. And if by any chance you fi nd yourself in the lobby on any Friday, Saturday or Sunday, let us treat you to some freshly made popcorn, courtesy of Four Points. Should we say “Welcome” then?


Four Points by Sheraton

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON1175 Rogers Way

250-374-4144www.starwoodhotels.com

Ht’s been a year of growth for BDO Canada LLP, which has been part of the Kamloops community for more than 40 years.In 2012, BDO completed the expansion of its offi ces to the entire third fl oor of the Scotiabank building downtown, making the international professional accounting fi rm as big as it’s been since the mid 1980s. As well, the fi rm, which employs 32 people, has developed four newly designated Chartered Accountants and hired eight accounting students from Thompson Rivers University in the past year.“We believe that delivering exceptional client service is the foundation of being a trusted advisor,” says partner

Mario Piroddi, explaining the company’s growth and success. Piroddi, along with partners Tom McInulty and Brian Callander, expect the company’s growth to continue well into the future.“Kamloops is boasting a vibrant, growing economy, and our vision is to grow with the economy and become a driving force in helping our community get to the next level,” he says. With more than 100 offi ces across Canada, BDO’s 3,000 professionals are committed to providing clients with practical advice tailored to their industry, priorities and ambitions. Through clear and open conversations, and with a focus on delivering value, the company strives to exceed the expectations of its clients.


BDO Canada LLP

IBDO CANADA LLP300-272 Victoria Street

[email protected]

www.bdo.ca

APPLIANCE GALLERY2321 East Trans Canada Hwy.

250-372-2536www.appliancegallery.ca

YOU MAY HAVE HEARD THE NEWS THAT Durvene Gal’s Appliance Gallery, which operated on Mt. Paul Way for a decade, is now in Valleyview.

You’ll fi nd the gallery’s moderate- to high-end appliances inside J. Walsh & Sons on the frontage road at 2321 E. Trans-Canada Hwy.

Durvene specializes in Professional, Designer and European home appliances. These are the exceptional brands and models you see in the glossy magazines and in show homes, but the only place you’ll fi nd them all under one roof is the Appliance Gallery.

And while Durvene carries quality products at moderate price points, Appliance Gallery specializes in ultra-modern stainless-steel kitchen units by European, New Zealand and American manufacturers.

With more and more luxury homes in Kamloops, Sun Rivers, Sun Peaks and elsewhere, builders and homeowners now have local access to a selection of the high-end appliances that suit their homes.

Along with the quality products, Durvene provides personal service, developing long-term relationships with her clients. It’s a level of service that also offers installations.

When you visit Appliance Gallery in J.Walsh & Sons, you’ll also fi nd a selection of kitchen and bathroom sinks, tubs, faucets, gas and electric fi replaces, barbecues and much more.

“We have everything you need for new construction and

home renovations,” said Durvene. “And no job is too big or too small. We treat each project with the same meticulous attention to detail.

“And with various promotions and rebates throughout the year on high end appliances there are always deals available.”

Owner, Durvene Gal.


When only the best will do



AMLOOPS SENIORS VILLAGE IS A NEW PLACE for senior citizens to call home.

At Kamloops Seniors Village, you’ll fi nd a full range of services and levels of care.

Our elder citizens deserve the best care and comfort available as their needs evolve over time. At Kamloops Seniors Village, we offer independent living, optional assisted living and full-time nursing care, as required.

With our campus of care, our clients don’t even have to move if their level of care changes.

KSV is their home and we are able to attend to them as required. Staff at all Retirement Concepts residences provide a caring, friendly and professional environment at all times.

General Manager Elaine Macdonald is a nurse from the United Kingdom who emigrated to B.C. with her family in 2007. She brings many years of experience to KSV, most of which have been in seniors care.

Elaine was offered the opportunity to put her skills and experience to good use working for Retirement Concepts

in Nanaimo, Kamloops, Courtenay, Williams Lake and then back to Kamloops. She is both proud and pleased to work with an organization dedicated to care and comfort of senior citizens.

Elaine relishes each opportunity to demonstrate her passion for seniors’ care, team support and continual learning so the highest-quality care can be delivered.

Brandan Rose-Bryant looks after marketing and community relations for Kamloops Seniors Village.

She has lived in Kamloops most of her life and brings more than 15 years of business development, marketing, media relations and community involvement to KSV.

Brandan’s career began as the music program director at the Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism.

Her dedication for the community is refl ected in her contributions such as Seniors Advisory Committee, City of Kamloops, B.C. Senior Games volunteer, chair for the Broadcast Centre United Way Challenge, volunteer co-ordinator for The River Family Festival, team co-ordinator for Kamloops Broadcast Centre’s Relay for Life and the Kamloops Blazers, where for 25 years, she has been the “Blazers’ Very Own” anthem singer.

Kamloops Seniors Village provides the best care possible for elder citizens, ensuring their needs are met even as they change over time.K

ELAINE MACDONALDRN, BSc., BA

General Manager

BRANDAN ROSE-BRYANTC.R.M.C.

Marketing, Community Relations

“Staff at all Retirement Concepts residences provide a caring, friendly and professional environment at all times.

KAMLOOPS SENIORS VILLAGE

1220 Hugh Allan Dr. 250-571-1800

www.kamloopsseniorsvillage.com

Kamloops Seniors Village: So nice to come home to



F YOU NEED TO KEEP YOUR FAMILY, HOME OR business safe and protected, you need peace of mind; someone who will watch out for you when you are awake, asleep or away. Someone who can ensure safety and protection at all times, even when the power is down. Locally owned and operated by Gary Meyers and his new partner Dave MacKenzie, Peace of Mind Security provides state-of-the-art alarms, cameras, access control and personal safety devices, not only to Kamloops businesses and residential owners, but throughout the Interior of B.C. Peace of Mind Security doesn’t just provide any alarm system, either, but the latest and most reliable. While each customer has specifi c needs, there is a common denominator for all the services: Trust. “We don’t cut corners when it comes to the services we provide,” says

MacKenzie. “Simplicity, competitive prices and quality are the key terms we operate with.” By maintaining an open dialogue through initial on-site consultations and then follow-up calls with the clients, and with a deep knowledge of the technology they offer, Peace of Mind Security Systems stands behind their work. “When people see the yellow and black logo they know the guarantee is there,” Meyers and MacKenzie point out. “It’s the functionality of the components put together that make us unique. Simply put, Peace of Mind Security Systems protects Kamloops from within.

Peace of Mind Security

PEACE OF MIND SECURITY

105-1383 McGill Road250-374-9969

[email protected]

I


VISIT TO THE KAMLOOPS CRAFT & ANTIQUE Mall at is really a visit to several shops in one. Wendy and Brian Kelly opened their doors 15 years ago to serve the people of Kamloops and sur-rounding area, tourists, and the passengers of the Rocky Mountaineer trains. It has been a successful venture. First, this is an antique shop. With both their own products plus space rented to other dealers, the Kelly’s offer a wide variety of collect-ibles and antiques. Old tools, tins, military items, toys and glassware line the shelves and showcases.This is also a souvenir shop, where customers can pick up everything from post cards to key chains,

depicting the Kamloops area. One can also pick up made-in-Kam-loops crafts from local artisans.New but popular are the doll-house miniatures for hobbyists. Finally, explore Kelly’s Kaboose, which caters to railway enthusi-asts of all ages, and is by far the premier train store in the B.C. In-terior. Model trains of all scales are available, along everything needed to build a model railway empire, and of course toy trains and Thomas trains.

Kamloops Craft & Antique Mall

KAMLOOPS CRAFT & ANTIQUE MALL

KELLY’S KABOOSE634 Victoria Street

250-377-8510www.kellyskaboose.ca

A


WHEN DOES YOUR CHILD START TO become literate?

Based on the last decade of research, she starts her journey moments after birth with face-to-face gestures and sounds between parent and child.

The Kamloops Early Language and Literacy Initiative (KELLI) builds on this science to promote more communication skills earlier in life.

What children learn about language orally in their fi rst fi ve years determines the diffi culty or ease with which they learn to read in school. Growth in the fi rst three years is greater than at any other time in human development.

KELLI’s early literacy information, programs like Parent-Child Mother Goose and family-literacy events for families with preschoolers offer children the opportunity to begin kindergarten with the pre-literacy skills they need for early success and a lifelong love of learning.

Literacy touches every aspect of life. It is a toolkit of skills and strategies to participate in society. Literacy in Kamloops (LinK) works to

co-ordinate initiatives and access funds to develop, maintain and expand literacy programs to support lifelong learning. LinK initiatives include: Interior Savings Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week; Heap the Honda Children’s Book Drive Challenge; Bright Red Bookshelves in 12 locations, which the Kiwanis Club of Kamloops looks after; KRCC Storybook Project; various reading programs; LinK Adult Literacy Forum and

Plain Language Workshops. The Kamloops Daily News Raise-a-Reader

campaign, now in its fi fth year, provides much of the necessary funding to support the local literacy programs delivered by KELLI and LinK in Kamloops. RAR funds also support community literacy programs in Chase, Barriere, Clearwater and Logan Lake. Last year more than $79 000 was raised which makes a big difference to local literacy initiatives.

We work together to raise readers

KAMLOOPS EARLY LANGUAGE AND

LITERACY INITIATIVEMaureen Doll, Co-ordinator

250-554-3134 kelli@interiorcommunity

services.bc.ca

LITERACY IN KAMLOOPSFiona Clare, Co-ordinator

Henry Grube Education Centre245 Kitchener Cres.

250-372-9373www.literacyinkamloops.com



ODAY, IN 2013, YOU KNOW THE FRESH IS BEST Salsa Company. You know the products, too: salsa, chips, guacamole and other dips.

What you may not know is the panic that threatened to overwhelm company founder and owner Colin McGaffi n the day he unveiled his products to the public.

“I will never forget the fi rst day at the farmers market here in Kamloops with my table of fresh salsa and, 2½ hours later, I hadn’t sold anything,” he recalls.

“Hardly anyone even stopped for a taste. I was puzzled — actually, I was scared. I started to panic. I had thought I was onto something with our fresh salsa idea but no one was interested,” he said.

“As it turns out — even today — most people don’t even want to talk salsa till 11 a.m. By then, on that fi rst day, all started to go well and I sold out by the end of the day.”

Such is the life of an entrepreneur. But today, 14 years later, Colin and partner Lisa

Graham employ 30, have moved the operation and have built a new production facility with a fully automated chip line.

“Our products are low in sodium and made entirely with fresh produce, right down the freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice — no preservatives. Our products are available in deli departments all over B.C. and Alberta.”

Colin discounts all the hard work to make his company successful, crediting instead the fact that they “never compromise on freshness and quality.”

“Once the volume in the Alberta market reaches what we sell here in B.C., we will need to build another production plant just for Alberta customers.”

Colin credits his hometown’s support as well.

“The community that we grew up in was so eager to help us succeed — it has been extremely fl attering. Everyone who has supported Fresh Is Best over the years has helped grow this company.”

Colin remembers the fi rst time he was interviewed by a reporter.

“My two-year-old son jumped into a picture at the last second and that picture made it into the paper.

“That moment captured a new family and a new business. Now, seeing them grown up and successful . . . that monument will always warm my heart,” he said.

Fresh Is Best Salsa Company

TFRESH IS BEST

SALSA COMPANY#12 - 1425 Cariboo Place

Phone: 250.377.7555www.freshisbest.ca

“Once the volume in the Alberta market reaches what we sell here in B.C., we will need to build another production plant just for Alberta customers.

Top: A selection of the merchandise Fresh Is Best Salsa produces and sells, including the hot Gourmet Habanero Hot Sauce.



HERE AREN’T MANY PLACES WHERE customers feel appreciated just for showing up. But at Country RV on Chief Louis Way along the Yellowhead Highway, customers feel appreciated from their very fi rst visit.

“Our customers are very willing to tell others about their experience with us,” said General Manager Bill Powell, a 36-year specialist in the RV industry.

“Most people come in saying that they had a recommendation from a friend or relative to see us.”

This might be a surprise but some customers travel more than 1,000 kilometres to visit Country RV. “Yeah, it does surprise us a bit, but it is a refl ection of our customers and their satisfaction, to the point they say, if you are in the market, you need to go see these guys!”

Referrals are a big part of the business at Country RV, but their superior product knowledge, and keeping up with the latest trends and products ensures they have the opportunity to satisfy any customer.

TThank you means more at Country RV

COUNTRY RV1300 Chief Louis Way

250-828-0093www.countryrvkamloops.ca

Top: Country RV general manager Bill Powell.Bottom The luxurious living room of the 2013 Rushmore by Crossroads overlooking 5 acres of fun filled RV’s


“We pretty much have anything in stock for anybody looking to get into the RV lifestyle,” said one of the sales consultants.

“It’s our belief that when people come into our dealership, they know what they want to experience and share with their families. We take pride in fi nding out what their needs are, accessing them and fi nding the right fi t for them for years to come.”

If you’re in the market to purchase an RV, Powell advises customers to take their time and ask plenty of questions.

“When you come into a dealership, the salespeople should be willing to listen. If you tell me what you want to do, within three minutes I can aim you in the right direction. Dealers have all become considerably better educated.”

There is indeed something for everyone on Country RV Centre’s four-acre lot. Country RV carries 25 lines, from the 16-foot trailer to a 40-foot luxury RV, including fi fth-wheels and park models.

There’s also a great selection of used RVs.Sounds simple — have the lines, listen to your

customer, provide the right product, right? Well, there is more to it than that.

“Keeping a relationship with customers through their journey is something we take great pride in,” Powell said. “A simple thing like remembering family members or sending a birthday card helps cement the relationship.”

There are several other reasons for Country RV’s success. And the best way to see how the company builds lasting relationships is to drop in and experience it yourself.

“Keeping a relationship with customers through their journey is something we take great pride in.



IN ITS 21ST YEAR, THE SALMON ARM Roots & Blues Festival is the largest and most musically diverse festival in the British Columbia Interior. Over the years, it has gained a shining reputation for the variety of its top quality presentations.

The Festival began in 1992 as a small indoor festival, a result of the grassroots Shuswap Coffee House collective of the 1970s and 80s, which by 1991 had coalesced into the not-for-profi t Salmon Arm Folk Music Society. The main goals of the SAFMS are to encourage and promote performers from all parts of the world (with a special emphasis on Canadian talent), and to introduce audiences to the world’s incredibly diverse genres of music, musical instruments, and the artists who play them. Supporters of the Roots & Blues Festival are directly helping to foster the growth and development of music in our community, country, and by extension, our planet.

The Festival takes place on the third weekend of August at the Salmon Arm Fairgrounds, a picturesque 18-acre park in the centre of beautiful Salmon Arm.

At night, two stages run simultaneously. Main Stage is at one end of the grounds, where you can catch such headlining acts as Bruce Cockburn, City and Colour, and Daniel Lanois this year. The dynamic Boogie Barn Stage lies at the other end, pumping out live beats for the diehard dancers in the crowd.

During the day, six stages run concurrently featuring different genres of music including Blues, World, Alt-Roots, Folk, Dance and

many others. Roots & Blues is family friendly with a Family Fun Zone offering loads of things for kids to see and do with free admission to kids 12 and under. It also presents a pre-festival community outreach program, coming up on its third year. Routes & Blues offers eight glorious days of Shuswap exploration, tying regional communities, stops of interest, Shuswap Trail Alliance hikes and other activities.

Catch a case of the blues

ROOTS & BLUES FESTIVAL490 Fifth Ave. SW, Salmon Arm

250-833-4096www.rootsandblues.cawww.routesandblues.ca



YOU MAY HAVE COME ACROSS CERTIFIED Financial Planner David Page once or twice over the years, either in person or through his advertising as one of the city’s foremost fi nancial planners.

David has been busy in Kamloops investment circles since 1983 when he moved here from Winnipeg to open and manage an offi ce for Investors Group, with whom he’d worked since 1975.

But after 30 good years with Investors in Kamloops, David was ready to do something new. This time, he took his wealth of experience as an executive fi nancial consultant to 685 Tranquille Rd. where he now operates D.W. Page Wealth Management.

Under the umbrella of Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc., David has big expectations for his new enterprise. Although he has started small with just a few staff, his offi ce space has enough room for other fi nancial planners and services as well.

He’s understandably enthusiastic about the new direction, partly because it enables him to capitalize on his own achievements.

He is a Certifi ed Financial Planner and Certifi ed Professional Consultant on Aging. He’s also a Certifi ed Divorce Financial Analyst.

Visit www.dwpage.com to learn more. Owner, David Page.

D.W. PAGE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

685 Tranquille Rd. 778-470-3100

www.dwpage.com

Wealth Choices: with the best options



UST A QUICK GLANCE SHOWS THE STAGGERING value that the Highland Valley Copper mine has had on surrounding economies.

Wages and benefi ts for the last year totaled $196 million, with spin-off from those wages going toward local services, stores and other businesses. It’s estimated that for every job in mining, 1.7 other jobs are created to service the industry.

A tally of the fi gures shows that for the past 27 years Highland Valley has been in production, well over $1 billion in wages have been paid into the local economy. In addition, in 2012, the mine purchased another $159 million in goods and services, provided from 536 local vendors. And the value doesn’t end there.

Teck Highland Valley Copper takes responsibility for the community in which it operates, and for the environment.

At Highland Valley Copper, the pursuit of sustainability guides our response to business. We understand that responsible mining and mineral development are fundamental to our long-term success.

With health, safety, environment and communities as core values, we are committed to implementing a best-practice approach to sustainable mining.

Highland Valley Copper’s contributions to government services are signifi cant. The operation is BC Hydro’s third largest customer, and pays in excess of $64 million annually in taxes to various levels of government, including fuel tax, as well as provincial, federal, hydro and property tax.

As we move forward, Highland Valley Copper will

continue to be an industry leader in sustainable mining. We will work together to build vibrant, healthy communities and continue to be responsible stewards of the environment.

At the same time, we at Highland Valley are committed to community investment. In 2012, we provided funding in excess of $450,000 to local charitable organizations and education. Through the Teck Community Partnership initiative, an additional $279,000 was contributed to non-profi t organizations. We are proud of the fact that the company and employees are major contributors to the Thompson Nicola Cariboo United Way, B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation, Royal Inland Hospital Foundation and others.

Highland Valley Copper’s employees recognize that these organizations provide critical services to our communities and it is due to this belief we and the United Steelworkers 7619 have been recognized by the local United Way as the largest corporate and largest employee contributors for 24 consecutive years.

JHIGHLAND VALLEY

COPPER MINEHwy. 97C

Logan Lake250-523-2443www.teck.com

Highland Valley Copper

“HVC will open its doors to the public on Aug. 5, celebrating 27 years of operation. The day includes tours, displays and family entertainment.


PARENTS CAN TEACH A LOT OF THINGS, but there is one skill best taught to kids by professionals — how to drive a car.

Driving is one of the most dangerous things people do every day, said Calum MacMillan, the owner of Young Drivers of Canada in Kamloops.

“It’s a life skill,” he said. “It’s best to learn the right way.” MacMillan has operated Young Drivers in Kamloops for four years, but noted the business has been in Kamloops since 1975. He jumped at the chance to take over the local franchise when the opportunity arose.

In fact, the Young Drivers program has been so successful that several smaller communities have requested the training as well, including Lytton and Lillooet.

Young Drivers has taught more than one million Canadians, MacMillan said. In Kamloops, 300 students a year take the training. The program delivers solid skills in several areas, including defensive driving, road observation and highway safety. Most importantly, the program is audited to ensure instructors deliver what is promised to the client. Young Drivers in Kamloops has three instructors and two specialized cars,

each with dual brakes, meaning the instructor has fi nal say over whether the car moves or not. The cars also have instructor mirrors, so they know what is going on around them.

Young Drivers offers two types of training. With ICBC’s approved course, students take

20 hours of classroom training and 12 hours of in-vehicle training. Afterward, students receive a six-month reduction in their Novice Driver stage in B.C.’s graduated-licensing program, plus two high-school credits.

Young Drivers also offers individual lessons for those who just want to spend some time in a vehicle with an instructor to sharpen their skills and perhaps point out bad habits.

MacMillan said he often hears from parents who see the profound improvement in their children’s driving skills after the program. The confi dence they gain behind the wheel is immeasurable, he said. Most YD students pass their driver’s test the fi rst time.

“Ninety per cent of our business comes through referrals,” he said. “We strive to offer the best product out there. We have the best-trained instructors in the business.”

The Driving School for All Ages

YOUNG DRIVERS444 Victoria St #201

250-828-1232www.yd.com/kamloops

Calum MacMillan, who owns the Young Drivers of Canada franchise for Kamloops, has expanded into smaller urban centres like Lytton and Lillooet at the request of community leaders.


AKE A STEP BACK IN TIME AND EXPLOREwhere the Wild McLeans got their start in life, before being hanged for murder. Come hear stories about the Fastest Whip in the West, Steven Tingley, one of the most infl uential men in the new province of British Columbia. Discuss with the natives their life in ranching, then and now. And ask our staff about the ghost of the Chinese cook. We have a fascinating history and invite you to come and explore it with us!

There is no better place to experience the birth of the B.C. Interior as we know it today. Located at the junction of Highways 97 and 99, 11 kilometres north of Cache Creek, the ranch offers an ideal location for buses and families to let their passengers enjoy a welcome excursion by strolling through our attractive grounds, rich in history and an abundance of things to see and do.

Open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from May 1 to Sept. 30 (until 6 p.m. July and August). This is one stop you don’t want to miss.

The ranch has plenty of property to explore, and many characters to speak with about the founders, previous ownership, and the story of the ranch. We have trail riding, gold panning, a beautiful gift shop, a wonderful restaurant, and lots of area to camp out in your RV or tent, or spend a night in one of our Teepees, Miner’s tents, or rustic cabins on the creek.


Historic Hat Creek Ranch

HAT CREEK RANCHJunction Of Hwy 97 And

99 Cache Creek1-800-782-0922

www.hatcreekranch.ca

T


ROBINSON LIGHTING& BATH CENTRE830 Laval Crescent

250-372-7738www.rlrbc.com

BRobinson: 77 years of industry-leading experience

. A. ROBINSON CO. LTD. WAS ESTABLISHED in Winnipeg in 1936 by Burt A. Robinson, the third Robinson generation to supply lighting products to the residential and commercial construction market. For 37 years, he continued at the helm, growing the business and its revenues.

In 1973, the company was acquired by Burt's two sons, Ross and Bruce Robinson. Rapid growth in the supply of electrical distribution products — and later plumbing and heating products — to contractors allowed the wholesale side of the company to grow.

Robinson Waterworks (now Robinson Bath Centre) became Western Canada's premier showroom for both luxury lighting and plumbing products. Several plumbing and lighting businesses were subsequently acquired, which added branches across Western Canada. Our branch in Kamloops opened in

October 2009.In 1999, Ross Robinson became

President of B. A. Robinson Co. Ltd. Expansion soon followed across the Prairies with new branches in Manitoba, Saskatoon and Regina. We have since joined the bustling Saskatchewan market by adding branches in Prince Albert and Swift Current.

Back in Winnipeg, the company acquired McDowell Electric in 2005. This provided a foothold in Manitoba's electrical wholesale market. Electrical products are now carried in our Brandon, Winkler and Steinbach locations, as well as Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Swift Current stores.

In all our wholesale locations, customers are treated to our Express concept, which is unique in the industry. Customers can wander our warehouse’s wide, brightly-lit aisles and fi ll their carts with the products they need.

Well-qualifi ed staff are available to answer their

questions and assist anyway they can. Customers can also place orders by phone or fax for pickup or delivery directly to the job site.

On our retail side, we offer some of the leading plumbing and lighting showrooms in Western Canada. Our Kamloops store showcases the latest in plumbing products for both trade professionals and the homeowner.

Today, B.A. Robinson Co. Ltd. supplies a diverse range of plumbing, HVAC, hydronics, pumps, water products, electrical and lighting products throughout Western Canada.

Within B. A. Robinson's 20 branch operations, the company has more than 400 employees and is experiencing its most signifi cant growth in value. B.A. Robinson remains a respected leader in the lighting and plumbing business in Canada, and will continue to do so in the decades to come.

“Customers can wander our warehouse’s wide, brightly-lit aisles and fi ll their carts with the products they need.

Top:Kamloops storefront.

Left:Kohler artist edition ceramic sink and Margaux faucet.

Right:Kim Loth, plumbing and lighting sales specialist.

Photos from top to bottom:B.A. Robinson Co. Ltd. branch manager Greg McGonigal.

Outside sales rep. Richard McLean, from left, with operations supervisor Willie Sayers, purchasing and counter sales rep Amanda Somerville and counter sales rep Josh Collins.

Counter salesman Josh Collins helps load a shipment of ABS pipes for shipper-receiver Mitchell Somerville, driving the forklift.

Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre carries a wide selection of high-end and mid-range appliances.




The Plaza Hotel: Modern amenities with heritage charm

KAMLOOPS’ GRAND DAME, THE PLAZA HOTEL, has undergone an eight-month multi-million dollar modernization while preserving the hotel’s treasured heritage charm.

All 67 guest rooms received fl oor-to-ceiling refi ts; meeting rooms were given upgraded technology and design and the restaurant has a completely new décor.

Along with a fresh new look and upgraded amenities, The Plaza Hotel offers the City’s best value with a wide range of complimentary inclusions like no-charge full breakfast cooked to order, free WiFi, free long-distance calls and much more.

Located in the heart of downtown, The Plaza’s heritage charm, modern conveniences and unbeatable value offers every guest an unforgettable stay.

The newly-renovated Fireside Steakhouse & Bar proudly offers a full range of locally-raised Black Angus steaks and other selections in relaxed, heritage surroundings perfect for any occasion.

With its warm, inviting décor and beautiful two-sided fi replace, the bar side is an ideal place to drop in for a drink or appetizer.

The mouth-watering menu is built around a wide range of premium Black Angus cuts from Southlands Ranch in Knutsford. This beef, available exclusively from the Fireside Steakhouse & Bar, is raised by the Haughton family, who have been ranching here for more than 100 years.

Above: The foyer is an inviting place to relax before heading out with friends.

Below: guest rooms received floor-to-ceiling refits.

THE PLAZA HOTEL405 Victoria Street

250-377-8075 [email protected]

www.theplazahotel.ca


KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF ITOceanwise seafood and locally-sourced

ingredients add to the tantalizing list of choices. Many dishes are cooked on Himalayan rock salt blocks, a unique process that cooks, sears and seasons the food while it sits on the preheated pink salt block.

An appealing variety of salads, starters for sharing and lighter meals complete the menu and offer something to please any appetite and palate.

The Plaza Hotel has a variety of highly fl exible, renovated function rooms and expert staff to help make your next event an unqualifi ed success.

The highly functional meeting rooms accommodate up to 225 people and are ideal for small- and medium-sized business meetings and social gatherings.

The renovated Blackwell Hall is the largest of the fi ve and pays tribute to Kamloops’ cowboy past with rustic wood accents and slate and hardwood fl ooring. With a wide variety of layout options and an integrated bar area, The Lange Foyer is a very popular venue for receptions and social gatherings.

If you’re planning a wedding, The Plaza Hotel is an elegant and romantic wedding destination with multiple options for ceremonies and receptions and superb in-house catering from our expert kitchen team. Our wedding planner and experienced staff can offer support and insight in planning and executing a dream day and our newly-renovated

guest rooms make a perfect place to end the special day for everyone including the happy couple who will adore our romantic Honeymoon Suite.

Above: The Plaza Hotel Liquor Store boasts an impressive selection of international and regional wines.

Below Left: Enjoy the new 24-hour business centre. Below Right: The Plaza Hotel's Chef, Mike Swann.

“The Plaza’s heritage charm, modern conveniences and unbeatable value offers guests an unforgettable.

Above: guest rooms received floor-to-ceiling refits.


Morelli Chertkow: Rooted in the Community

MORELLI CHERTKOW LLP

300 - 180 Seymour Street250-374-3344

www.morellichertkow.com

MKAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT

ORELLI CHERTKOW LLP has been a pillar of the Kamloops legal community for more than 100 years. Built on the principles of being accessible, reasonable and responsive, Morelli Chertkow LLP consistently provides quality legal advice to its clients in Kamloops and the B.C. Interior.

With offi ces in Merritt, Ashcroft and Williams Lake and a team of 12 lawyers and more than 25 support staff, Morelli Chertkow LLP is actively involved with various community charities and events; supporting the community in the same way that the Firm supports its clients. Many of its staff members were born and raised in Kamloops, with strong roots in the community.

Morelli Chertkow LLP has many lawyers with varied experience in all areas of law.

Partners include John Hogg, QC, who has 38 years of experience with personal injury law, civil litigation and criminal law cases; Leigh Pedersen, who has 30 years of experience with

personal injury law and civil litigation; Lori Ottem, who has 27 years of experience with family law and divorce; Scott Huyghebaert, who has 24 years of experience with real estate law, business law, and wills and estate planning; and Elizabeth Harris, who has 19 years of experience with insurance law, civil litigation, and divorce and family law.

Morelli Chertkow LLP has seven associate

lawyers, including Kevin Church (in Williams Lake and Kamloops), Karen Schymon, Rachel Lammers, Heather Johnston (in Ashcroft on Wednesdays), Gillian Oliver, Ben van der Gracht (in Merritt on Thursdays), and Karla Dodds.

The lawyers are supported by a team of highly experienced paralegals, legal assistants and conveyancers.


OMETIMES YOU HAVE TO STOP BEING WHO YOU are in order to be who you could be. That’s the story behind Kamloops Fit Centre, the personal-training facility founded in 2008 by Mikkie Nettles and Lorilee Sweeny. Mikkie, a mother of four, is now the sole owner, a signifi cant change from 1997 when she was still a computer programmer.

But when an instructor didn’t turn up for a fi tness class, the participants asked Mikkie to teach it. That did it: a new career and direction in life took off.

Since then, Mikkie has created classes and programs for pre- and post-natal moms, for which she won the 2006 personal trainer of the year award from the B.C. Recreation and Parks Association.

She was also nominated for fi tness trainer of the year. In 2007, Mikkie competed in her fi rst fi tness competition and won her class as well as overall second place and she continues to place well in fi tness and bodybuilding competitions.

“We offer a unique service with 30-minute small group or one-on-one personal-training

sessions,” said Mikkie. “We include diet at affordable rates (monthly or sessional) in gym and in-home as well as corporate challenges and groups. “We also do specialized training for fi gure, fi tness physique and body-building competitions.”

Specialized pre/postnatal fi tness classes and a pelvic fl oor specialist help make Kamloops Fit Centre the ideal setting for many who would otherwise have no appropriate facility.

Kamloops Fit Centre now has its own Kamloops Biggest Loser Program based on the philosophy of “Diet plus Exercise equals Success.”

That program showed the benefi ts of personal training in small groups. Participants get all the benefi ts of a personal trainer but costs are shared with three others.

“Last May, we sent four participants to the Western Canadian bodybuilding competition and they placed fi rst, two seconds, and a third. That third-place fi nish was Tracy, who started with us as a Biggest Loser client; she lost more than 100 pounds.

“This year, we will have a 65-year-old competing in her fi rst bodybuilding show ever.” Mikkie has lots of exciting stories about people who had to stop being who they were in order to be who they could be.

Deleah Nadin is one of them. She was on full disability for Menieres disease, was on prescription meds for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and the threat of diabetes.

She went on to change her life, compete and place in the western national body building in Kelowna in 2011.

“Deleah believes in our commitment to the community so much that she has come off disability after eight years and is now fully employed by Kamloops Fit Centre.”

SKamloops Fit Centre

KAMLOOPS FITCENTRE

#119-805 Notre Dame Drive250-434 6767

www.kamloopsfi tcentre.com

Owner and personal trainer Mikkie Nettles.


VEN A FIRE CAN’T DAMPEN THEIR SPIRITS.Hello Toast, a breakfast fi xture in downtown

Kamloops, suffered a setback in February after a small kitchen fi re forced the restaurant to shut its doors for a month.

After reopening on March 9, manager Karen Bird said the month of closure and ensuing renovations was “like a horror movie,” but she’s grateful the fi re was relatively small and that more damage wasn’t done.

She came back to the restaurant on a whim one evening, and saw the smoke when she opened the door.

“It was a fl uke that I happened to come at that moment,” Bird says. “It was very emotional for me because I really love this place and I put my heart and soul into it.”

Owned by Amy Boughton and Brooke Morrell, Hello Toast is known for its all-day breakfasts, relaxed atmosphere and unique menu, which offers items that are both wholesome and delicious.

Bird has managed the restaurant for a decade and considers the staff a family, and the restaurant in a class of its own.

“All the items on the menu have been compiled by the people who have worked here. We have Green Eggs and Ham, and egg scrambles — everybody has contributed something,” she says, noting that she’s known for her Avocado Chocolate Seed Cookies, and sells upwards of 30 each day.

“It’s a pretty happy place to work, and I really encourage creativity, especially when we’re making soups. Everybody makes soup around here, and

everybody makes what they’re good at.”Some of the more popular soups include Coco Lime

Chicken, Thai Corn Chowder, Moroccan Chicken and Creamy Dreamy Vegetable. The menu changes annually, but every day there’s a new special and often it’s something that’s never featured on the menu.

Hello Toast has vegetarian and vegan options on the menu, as well as gluten free bread and wraps.

EHello Toast built on love

“I really encourage creativity, especially when we’re making soups.

HELLO TOAST428 Victoria St.250-372-9322

[email protected]




NITED WAY’S WORK AS A collaborator in our community means its investments go far beyond funding non-profi ts.

“Making things happen starts with small but essential steps, bringing people together to exchange ideas and identify needs and then making the best use of community dollars and resources to fi ll gaps. That’s what United Way is all about,” said Danalee Baker, Director of Community Impact at United Way.

Using four key strategies, United Way lives its mission to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.

The fi rst strategy, infl uencing public attitudes, systems and policies, doesn’t happen overnight. Change starts through partnerships with such groups as the Homelessness Action Plan and advocating for policy change at the provincial and federal levels.

“The United Way is very much about partnership. The work they’ve done has transformed this community,” said Carmin Mazzotta, the Project Manager for Housing and Homelessness. She also provides administrative support for federal

money for the Homelessness Partnering Strategy at the City of Kamloops, one of fi ve United Way partners in battling homelessness.

The second strategy focuses on the cause of social issues. United Way knows there are reasons that individuals and families fall through the cracks and enter the cycle of homelessness.

This has led to the formation of the Kamloops Rent Bank. To date, the bank has loaned $2,500 to families in crisis.

Strengthening the network of services and the capacity of non-profi ts and the community is the third strategy. United Way is committed to providing relevant support, workshops and training such as Evaluation and Outcome Measurement, Board Development and Days of Caring.

“They are partners, friends and supporters of the organizations they

support,” says Suzan Goguen, executive director for Seniors Outreach Society in Kamloops. “Seniors Outreach Society will identify problems within the senior community and communicate them to United Way, which will in turn look at designing strategies to address them.”

The last strategy is engaging the community’s fi nancial resources, infl uence, time, knowledge and action. United Way relies on community wisdom to implement changes. Money is invested back into the community that raised it.

For example, the United Way saved the Logan Lake WHY program for six- to 12-year-old kids when it lost its summer student funding.

“It’s continuous, year-round collaborations such as the one we have with United Way that results in an impact,” said Doug Sage, executive director of the Canadian Mental Health Association. “The CMHA employees donate to the annual United Way campaign every year because we trust their ability to make things happen.”

Above: Leadership Students take part in the United Way Youth Day of Caring at the BC Wildlife Park

Right: A camper learns about the strength of egg shells while enjoying a summer program at the Logan Lake WHY.

United Way: Collaborator in the community

UUNITED WAY177 Victoria St.250-372-9933

www.unitedwaytnc.ca

“The United Way is very much about partnership. The work they’ve done has transformed this community.



ANADIAN WESTERN BANK ISN’T JUST open for business, we are actively pursuing it!

Since opening in Fall 2009, the Kamloops location has enjoyed signifi cant growth, expanding from 13 staff to 22, including four recent graduates of Thompson Rivers University. “We have been recognized as one of the fastest growing branches in the Bank, refl ecting the healthy business climate that Kamloops enjoys,” says branch manager Joshua Knaak.

While Canadian Western Bank was established 27 years ago, it remains “the young entrepreneur” in the Canadian banking industry, says Knaak. “This entrepreneurial spirit helps us identify with our clients and our passion for growth keeps us looking for opportunities to assist,” he says.

“ We are ‘The Working Bank,’ and are prepared to do whatever it takes to help our customers be successful — whether developing their business, purchasing a home or planning for retirement.”

The services provided by Canadian Western Bank are highly personalized — reminiscent of the banking industry of the past.

Account managers are committed to

understanding the intricacies of their clients’ business just as well as they know their own. No appointments are necessary, and the staff delivers a quality of service at a level the industry normally reserves for private banking clients.

“Our company structure allows us to be creative and responsive in meeting the needs of our clients,” Knaak says.

Canadian Western Bank started as a bank, but has since grown to a group of companies that includes Canadian Direct Insurance, National Leasing , two trust companies, and a wealth management division, providing a one-stop shop for clients.

Canadian Western Bank management foresee a bright future for business in Kamloops.

“We will continue to grow our brand by working hard for our clients and expressing our appreciation when they spread our story in the community,” says Knaak. “Our mission is to be recognized in the Kamloops marketplace and beyond for providing exemplary service as well as being the employer of choice for banking professionals.”

Joshua Knaak, branch manager of Kamloops’ Canadian Western Bank, says he and his staff intend to put their best foot forward in serving clients for personal and business banking needs.

Canadian Western Bank: we want your business

CCANADIAN

WESTERN BANK101-1211 Summit Dr.

[email protected] “We are

‘The Working Bank,’ and we are prepared to do whatever it takes . . .


TQM Consulting

CTQM CONSULTING

#202 - 1211 Summit Drive250-828-0420

www.tqmconsulting.ca

THE WORLD OF WORK CHANGES constantly and how we react to those changes defi nes our measure of success, especially when it comes to a career. Don Anderson, owner of TQM Consulting in Kamloops, gets to see this every day.

“Our company provides human-resource management services to small businesses and non-profi t organizations, as well as career planning and job-search services to individuals. For individuals, services can be provided whether they want to switch careers, fi nd new jobs, or take them closer to fulfi lling their dreams through self-employment,” says Anderson.

Established in 1993, TQM, like many local companies, was conceived to address a need: providing consultancy to small and medium-sized businesses that did not have their own human resource manager. Over the years, the company collaborated with federal and provincial governments on employment projects, and recently came full circle by returning to human-resource services and counselling for people redefi ning career goals.

Anderson is proud of his team of specialists who work to provide the best service for each client. Making decisions at a team level by exchanging ideas is how things are done at TQM.

The core values at TQM have stayed the same since inception, explains Anderson. “The biggest one is integrity; we have established a trustworthy reputation through respecting our clients’ privacy, understanding their needs and working hard to fi nd solutions.”

What makes TQM stand apart is their

ability to remain fl exible to clients’ needs, staying on top of labour market trends, and collaborating with other community service providers on different projects. With respect to individual career planning clients, there are no boundaries to the services provided. “We can help anyone from the young high school student who is in the early stages of planning his or her career, to the seasoned workforce veteran who is looking at a full career change, and anyone in between. We work with a lot of individuals who are currently employed but want to explore alternative options for themselves.”

Although TQM is a fee-for-service company, no one leaves their offi ce empty-handed. Every potential client is offered a free initial consultation, and individuals always leave with recommendations for a next step, even if it does not involve TQM.

“If a person doesn’t end up using our services, he or she will have had a chance to meet and learn about us, and can recommend us to others who may benefi t from our services. At the same time, we will provide some basic guidance and information as to other service providers who may be able to provide assistance to that person, so it’s a win-win situation”.

In addition to free initial consultations, TQM connects with the Kamloops community in other ways through volunteer activities. “This year for example, we are providing training sessions on employment relationships to the Miss Kamloops candidates, and we have participated in employer-student networking events hosted by TRU

TQM has also built a job postings page on its website where employers can post job openings in Kamloops at no charge. This page also features hyperlinks to the career/employment pages of more than 300 employers with operations in Kamloops, as well as hundreds of links to career options with universities, mines, government, trades, and professional occupations.

With respect to TQM’s human resource management services, the focus is primarily on smaller organizations that have employees but do not have a human resource manager on staff. “Just because a company only has seven or eight employees doesn’t mean they don’t have HR issues and concerns,” explains Anderson. “Like any larger employer, these organizations have to follow employment regulations, administer payroll, develop appropriate management strategies, implement effective compensation packages, and provide for a healthy work environment.” TQM provides such services on a contract basis for employers, which provides for an effective and economical alternative to hiring a full time HR manager.

“What makes TQM stand apart is their ability to remain fl exible to clients’ needs, staying on top of labour market trends, and collaborating with other community service providers on different projects.


TQM owner Don Anderson


OMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN PROCESSES and digitally guided tools ensure Quattro Stone and Tile Ltd. is able to produce the perfect fi t every time.

Established in Kamloops in 2006, Quattro Stone specializes in the design and fabrication of unique, hand crafted, luxurious natural stone countertops. Our countertops showcase the natural beauty and strength of stone, leaving you with a one of a kind, breathtaking place to live.

When Quattro owner Dustin Adams began working in the countertop industry he brought with him a desire to be the best at what he does. After retiring from a career as a professional downhill mountain biker, Adams had the drive, determination and passion to achieve his business goals.

With humble beginnings working with concrete and recycled glass, Adams gained the skill and experience to expand

into other products including granite, soapstone, marble and quartz. He now strives to share his impeccable attention for detail and exceptional quality with his staff, clients and the community.

Quattro Stone and Tile Ltd. offers Kamloops’ only 100 per cent digital stone fabrication process, giving customers the best possible fi nal polish in the industry.

Our team begins each job with a digital template of the specifi c site, which ensures the perfect fi t to any wall even if it is bowed, dipped, or out of square. We then input the template into our Computer Aided Design program, allowing us to add the perfect shape for curves, radiuses, edges and sinks.

The template is then given to the sawyer who uses a digital bridge saw to cut the layout on the slab the client has selected, taking the time to ensure the stone’s inherent grains and patterns are used to their full potential.

The next step in the process is to transfer the counters to a CNC router machine, where the counters are given their unique shape. Here we are able to fabricate any piece to the perfect shape and curve, specifi c to each job. The CNC will polish the edges of the counter

down to a honed fi nish, but the process doesn’t end there.

We then hand-polish each individual piece, using that human touch that is so important to ensure perfection. With this addition step, we can guarantee our counters have the best possible polish.

Today, the Quattro team assists every customer with enthusiasm and determination. Our goal is to meet and exceed our clients every expectation and desire, leaving behind a long lasting feeling of comfort and satisfaction.

We encourage our clients to visit the shop and to lay out their kitchens with us to make sure that the veining or sections they love are displayed exactly within the job. At the same time, we can ensure that the portions the client doesn’t like are cut around as much as possible.

At Quattro, we love what we do and it shows! Quattro Stone and Tile Ltd. is a proud member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association and the Stone Fabricators Alliance.

Dustin and Sherri Adams, left, and Leo and Irene Steiger invite you to bring your dream kitchen to life with Quattro Stone and Tile.

Quattro Stone and Tile Ltd.: Polish and precision

CQUATTRO STONE

AND TILE LTD.A-1425 Pearson Place

[email protected]

“Our goal is to meet and exceed our clients every expectation and desire, leaving behind a long lasting feeling of comfort and satisfaction.



E KNOW YOU’VE HEARD IT BEFORE. You see it every time you cross the Overlander Bridge and its on just about every City sign in town.

But we’re here to say it again. We ARE Canada’s Tournament Capital. It’s important to remember what effect our identity has on our city.

In 2012, Kamloops hosted 110 events, bringing 25,978 participants to our city, generating an economic impact of $11,243,875. This included playing host to elite training camps such as the BC Lions and two of Team China’s National Short Track Speed Skating Programs.

Our ability to attract these high-calibre events can partially be attributed to the facility expansion project, which allowed the City to spend more than $37 million on new and improved sports facilities at the Tournament Capital Centre and MacArthur Island.

CITY OF KAMLOOPS7 Victoria Street West

250-828 -3311www.kamloops.ca

W “We’ve become a premiere host community with international appeal, and we continue to build on our reputation.

“If you build it, they will come” was the philosophy and as a result, the following events have been hosted here:

• 2006 North American Short Track Speed Skating Championships• 2007 & 2008 Provincial Gymnastics Championships • 2010 World Masters Association Indoor Athletics Championships • 2010 National Gymnastics Championships • 2010 – 2013 B.C. Lions Training Camp• 2010 – 2013 Western Canadian Age Class Wrestling Championships• 2011 Western Canada Summer Games

Of course, that’s in addition to our people – both staff and volunteers – our resources, and our unwavering community spirit that set us apart as one of the best. We’ve become a premiere host community with international appeal, and we continue to build on our reputation. In other words, we just keep getting better. That being said, we have some pretty exciting events coming up in the near future:

• 2013 Skate Canada Adult Figure Skating • 2013 B.C. Seniors Games• 2013 - 2014 B.C. Lions Spring Training• 2014 Tim Hortons Brier• 2014 North America - Central America -

Caribbean Under 23 Athletics• 2014 B.C. Summer Swim Association Provincials• 2015 B.C. Special Olympics Winter Games• 2018 B.C. Winter Games

These special events are in addition to the annual tournaments in Kamloops that make up about 70 per cent of all events. These include the Kamloops International Baseball Tournament, Kamloops International Bantam Ice Hockey Tournament, the Western Canadian Age Class Wrestling and the Annual Invitational Soccer Tournament, just to name a few.

Canada's Tournament Capital

KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT



MARITIME TRAVEL HAS BEEN AROUND since 1949, but we are still a young company at heart.

We began as a single store and have grown into one of the largest independent travel agencies in Canada.

Today, our retail operations consist of 106 locations from coast to coast.

Each day, we strive to improve ourselves and the way we do business. We take pride in our unique “boutique” approach to service and having one of the most experienced staff in the city.

Maritime Travel specializes in all things travel-related: river cruises, ocean cruises, customized tours to Europe, South America, Australia and many other destinations.

Being an all-service agency, we also handle all-inclusive beach vacations, business and corporate travel, discounted fl ights and airfares, Disney packages and Florida vacation homes.

Maritime Travel also owns all Bay store agencies in B.C. and Alberta. This relationship allows for the application of HBC reward points for the travel costs, and the use

of HBC credit cards, as well as deferred payment plans for travel.

Our valued team of knowledgeable travel agents can assist you with any vacation planning. Regardless of how big or small your budget is, we’ll be delighted to ensure you have a well-planned holiday. Visit us on Facebook, just search for Maritime Travel.

Maritime Travel takes you places

MARITIME TRAVELColumbia Square, Unit 450

500 Notre Dame Dr. 778-471-5619

www.maritimetravel.ca


Maritime Travel's team, Doreen Cook, left, Cindy Peever, Stacey Colnar, and Rose Tomlinson.

“ Find Maritime Travel online:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MaritimeTravel.caTwitter: www.twitter.com/#!/Maritime_TravelYouTube: www.youtube.com/user/MaritimeTravelTube


OW DO YOU CHOOSE FLOORING? After consulting with your designer and your family, it comes down to the nitty-gritty. That is where someone like Marcel Renzetti, owner of End Of The Roll in Kamloops comes in.

End Of The Roll is the largest fl ooring company in Canada, Renzetti explains.

Many Kamloops residents know that the store has been at its 962 Laval location for almost 25 years, and since 1999 many have had a chance to meet Renzetti, who co-owns the store with his wife Bernice. In true Kamloops fashion, the business is family-owned and operated, and proud of it. Having a team of experienced sales people and installation technicians is a must. It goes hand in hand with providing everything the clients need at any given moment. “We are the largest stocking fl ooring company in Kamloops,” says Renzetti.

End Of The Roll takes pride in having customers leave the stores happy and the Kamloops store is no exception.

“Our clients get help in choosing the best fl ooring option for their home. We do free measuring and professional installation on all the products bought at End Of The Roll,” Renzetti explains.

The key words are trust and experience. With almost 40 years of carpeting experience and a deep understanding of clients’ needs, Renzetti knows a thing or two about high standards. So do the employees: Cathy, Jeff, Adam, and Cory, all of which have been with the store for almost a decade and have many years of fl ooring experience between them.

Along with the extensive variety of carpets, the store carries: hardwood, area rugs, tile, laminate, and vinyl as well as installation supplies, underlayment, and underpad material, which is available at all times. If convenience is what you’re after, End Of The

Roll delivers. Carpets are installed within two to three business days, no delays or booking cancellations. The store technicians can also dispose of the old carpet if need be.

“We’re never too far to help our Kamloops clients, and out of town customers. too.” Providing excellent service and quality, offering fi nancing solutions, and if need be, donating money and time to help the community in case of a natural disaster like the fi re in Barriere a few years ago. End Of The Roll does it all, and it does it with pride, just like you would expect from the largest and best-known fl ooring company in Canada.

End Of The Roll

HEND OF THE ROLL962A Laval Crescent

250-72-1008www.endoftheroll.com End Of The Roll's Adam Renzetti, left, Cathy Sanborn, Cory Stumpf, and Jeff Grant.



GHM INTERNATIONAL IS PROUD OFits broadly-talented, highly-dedicated External Affairs team led by former RCMP Superintendent Yves Lacasse. In the eight years Yves has lived in Kamloops, he has become a well-respected leader with a deep commitment to Kamloops.

Yves is leading his team to strengthen KGHM International’s relationship with members of the community, First Nations and all levels of government. The team, which is committed to open, transparent and fair communication, includes Robin Bartlett, Nicole Trudell, Jean-Paul (JP) Salley, Norman Thompson and Ryan Deneault.

Community Relations Specialist Robin Bartlett transferred here in January from KGHM International’s Robinson Mine in Ely, Nevada, a community with a similar climate to Kamloops. She is helping to establish ways for members of the project to stay active and involved in the community as well as driving the project’s social-responsibility efforts.

Community Ambassador Nicole Trudell is a long-time resident of Kamloops and shares community concerns about health

and quality of life. Nicole visits businesses and individuals, listening to their concerns and sharing those with the team so the whole community can benefi t.

External Affairs Specialist JP Salley focuses on government relations and communication. He is a B.C. resident who recently moved here and is passionate about outdoor recreation. With vast experience in mining operations, project planning and corporate positions, JP offers an approach to the External Affairs team that balances economic stimulus with the need to maintain the beautiful landscape we all call home.

Community Relations Manager Norman Thompson has been with the project for almost a year. As a long-time Kamloops resident, Norman knows that a better understanding of the Ajax project is essential. He is focused on landowner relations and will respond to concerns from nearby landowners.

First Nations Liaison Ryan Deneault is a member of the Skeetchestn First Nation who was born and raised in Kamloops. His main goal is to build relationships between First Nations and KGHM

International by co-ordinating and implementing communication, training and employment, business development and community relations.

KGHM International is a responsible mine operator with a solid track record of safe and successful mining operations in Canada, the U.S. and South America. The External Affairs team and all of KGHM International want to be good neighbours and true partners who contribute not only to the economy of Kamloops but to the spirit of this vibrant community. They will do this through involvement in activities that support education and training, health, sports and the arts.

The External Affairs team is active at community events and invites everyone to visit its community-relations centre at 330 Seymour St. anytime they wish to discuss the project.

KGHM International’s external-affairs team consists of (from left):Robin Bartlett, Norman Thompson, Ryan Deneault, Nicole Trudell, Yves Lacasse and Jean-Paul Salley.

KGHM International: External Affairs Team

KKGHM INTERNATIONAL

AJAX PROJECT330 Seymour Street

[email protected]


General Grants

General Grants North Shore - 250-376-9600South Shore- 250-377-7544

Sahali - 778-471-3109www.generalgrants.ca

IF ONE WERE TO DEFINE GENERAL Grant’s Convenience Store using three concepts, they’d be: strong family values, caring for the community and making a difference. But the legacy Grant Robertson is creating goes beyond building a name or a business.

The small store Grant started in the early 1980s on the North Shore has grown into three full-service recycling depots. It’s no longer cans and bottles, but everything from milk cartons and jugs to batteries, TVs and computers, small appliances and electrical toys. In fact, says Robertson, “We’re looking into a better way of recycling cardboard and even Styrofoam.” An environmental steward and a visionary? You could say so.

The Fortune Street store still operates as a convenience store, and has a busy gardening centre overseen by one of Robertson’s sons. The ever-growing and profi table business goes beyond the family though. “We have long-term employees; they have good benefi ts, we treat them like family, and that creates a trustful

environment,” Robertson explains. Trust and respect extend to customers

and employees alike. Being an elected representative of the people in the community – Robertson was a City councillor for three terms from 1993 to 2000 – means that the business he’s offering has to inspire trust while providing the services people need.

“We take great care in providing a safe and trusting environment for our customers,” he explains. From bright lights late at night to smiles, Robertson’s almost

30 employees know that what matters most is to make people feel respected and welcomed.

“I want customers to know they are coming to a family-owned business where they see friendly familiar faces,” says an ever-smiling Robertson. And the business will carry on since his sons are taking over, he promises. Whether buying fi recrackers — his store is one of the only ones in town offering fi recrackers —gardening supplies or bringing in recyclables, customers know they can count on the best service.


Owner, Grant Robertson


UR LOCAL OFFICE WAS ESTABLISHED MORE THAN 30 years ago, and our plans include a long future in this serving the growth and development of this “secret gem” that is Kamloops. The company began in Vancouver over 100 years ago and our heritage in BC’s mapping and infrastructure development runs deep.

Locally, we have a wide range of clients including municipalities, First Nations, government agencies, and individual citizens needing surveys or engineering advice. What we do: surveys, land development, stormwater management, water supply and treatment, sewage treatment and disposal, transportation, resource roads and camps.

In Kamloops last year, we provided design and construction services for Tk’emlúps Indian Band’s wastewater system - 9,000 metres of underground piping and four pumping stations – establishing sustainable and environmentally sound growth in the community, industrial

park, and Sun Rivers. Another of our recent local projects was design and construction of the City’s new water reservoir, booster station and trunk main in Dufferin Heights. McElhanney is owned by

a group of its own engineers, planners, legal surveyors, mappers, construction management and environmental professionals. The company employs 400 people across B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan. McElhanney is a major player in transportation, bridge, and design-build projects throughout western Canada, and has long been at the forefront of mapping and geographic information management.

We will be in our new location at 710 Laval Crescent (right beside the Greyhound bus station) as of May 1 – drop in for a visit!

A history of engineering innovation

OMCELHANNEY CONSULTING

SERVICES LTD.293 1st Avenue250-374-2200

www.mcelhanney.com

“Locally, we have a wide range of clients including municipalities, First Nations, government agencies, and individual citizens needing surveys or engineering advice.


HOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY Residence & Conference Centre provides student housing on the Thompson Rivers University campus.

The Residence & Conference Centre has eight executive loft suites that are hotel rooms year round and more than 200 suites converted into affordable accommodation from May to August. The centre provides great alternative accommodations for sports teams, conferences, religious groups, leisure travellers and more.

Our unique location at Thompson Rivers University is a fi ve-minute walk to the Tournament Capital Centre, making this the ideal location to host large or small sporting events or conferences.

Campus Living Centres is Canada’s premier provider of student housing, with more than 19 college and university partners, and more than 14,000 student beds. Campus Living Centres was founded in 1989 with the purpose of assisting colleges and universities with the planning, design, fi nancing and management of student housing and conference facilities.

In 2006, Campus Living Centres and Thompson Rivers University partnered to open the doors of the Thompson Rivers University Residence & Conference Centre. While student housing is its main focus, it also provides accommodation for special events, and has recently hosted the Western Canada Summer Games (athletes village), B.C. Teachers Federation and B.C. Lions training camp.

The Residence & Conference Centre works with TRU to facilitate campus conferences and functions. They also work closely with the City of Kamloops to host athletes and delegates for large sporting events and training camps. The Residence & Conference Centre is a

unique and reasonably priced summer accommodation option, with housekeeping, Wi-Fi, multiple kitchen facilities, laundry, fi tness room, media lounges and complimentary continental breakfast.

Even with fi ve room types, all suites are self-contained and furnished with private bedrooms, private bathrooms and kitchenettes with a full-size fridge, microwave, sink with counter space, table and chairs.

The Residence & Conference Centre participates in community events, fundraisers and charities, including SPCA, MS Society, B.C. Cancer Society, Kamloops Women’s Shelter and the B.C. Wildlife Park, to name a few. The Residence & Conference Centre also holds bi-weekly barbecues in the summer months with proceeds going to CIBC’s Run for the Cure, and helps sponsor the TRU Student Bursary and Boys & Girls Club of Kamloops.

TUnique, convenient and affordable

The Residence & Conference Centre at TRU offers breathtaking 360° views and plenty of breathing room in its executive loft suites (below left).

RESIDENCE & CONFERENCE CENTREThompson Rivers University

250-828-8999www.stayrcc.com/kamloops



T KAMLOOPS MEDICAL AESTHETICS and Day Spa, our goal is to make you look and feel your best. Aesthetic medicine is no longer simply looking your best on the outside. It is also about feeling well, and we are dedicated to helping you look and feel your best from the inside out by integrating topical and internal treatments.

We provide safe, effective, evidence-based aesthetic treatments to help restore and rejuvenate your youthful potential. What makes us different is that we can also treat the internal well-being through hormone testing, bio-identical hormone-replacement therapy, medically supervised weight-loss programs and naturopathic medicine.

Upon graduating, Dr. Steven Jones moved back home and opened Kamloops Naturopathic Clinic where he offers the most up-to-date treatments in aesthetic and integrative medicine. He has travelled extensively throughout Canada, the U.S. and Europe to learn and integrate these therapies. Spa

practitioner Karen Robinson, who was trained in Kamloops, offers a wide range of spa therapies such as relaxation, hot stone and prenatal massage, facials, foot care and hair removal.

Our aesthetic treatments include dermal fi llers, platelet rich plasma therapy, controlled chemical peels, hair-regrowth therapy, sclerotherapy, esotherapy, cryotherapy and lipotherapy. Aesthetic treatments are used to treat common problems such as sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, fat deposits, acne and acne scars and restore volume, tone, texture and radiance to your skin. Whether you’re looking for aesthetic treatments

alone or for a more integrated approach to wellness to reduce stress, improve energy or lose weight, we are a medically supervised clinic that provides safe, effective full-body rejuvenation.

For more information, see www.kamloopsmedicalaesthetics.com.

Kamloops Medical Aesthetics and Day Spa

AKAMLOOPS

MEDICAL AESTHETICS 754 Seymour St. 250.377.3077

www.kamloopsmedicalaesthetics.com


Dr. Steven Jones, Naturopathic Physician and owner of Kamloops Naturopathic Clinic and Kamloops Medical Aesthetics and Day Spa.

KATE’S AUTO MAIDS OWNER-OPERATOR Kate Skene has deep roots in the auto-service industry in Kamloops. Her father Bill Skene is sales manager at Butler RV, and her brother Cody is sales manager at Rivershore Chrysler.

So it was a natural fi t for Kate to go into the industry herself, which she did in 2010 when she opened Kate’s Auto Maids. Then, in 2011, she moved to 304 Mt. Paul Way, where you’ll fi nd her today.

Kate’s Auto Maids offers interior and exterior detailing of cars, trucks, vans and SUVs, including pressure washing of door jambs, carpet and upholstery shampoo, leather cleaning and treating, glass surfaces, and bringing vinyl back to life.

Outside, Kate’s will wash, wax and polish your paint, buff up the chrome and dress all rubber and plastic. Your engine will also be well cared for, cleaned and detailed. Wheel wells can be cleaned and spray-painted. “There are good reasons for full interior and exterior detailing of vehicles,” said Kate.

“One is personal use, especially after a winter of grime and muck splashing into places that aren’t easily accessible. If it’s allowed to dry, it causes corrosion that you can’t see.

“Inside, grime gets tracked into carpeting and transferred to upholstery.“Another reason is resale value. If you’re selling or trading in your vehicle, or returning a lease,

you want the vehicle looking its best. It shows you care about the vehicle, and that means higher resale value.”Kate also explained that a layer of grime hides wear and tear that would otherwise be repaired. “Fixing leaks, cracks and breakage early saves money and hassle,” she said. “But how do you know if you can’t see it?”

A thorough detailing can easily pay for itself, not only in resale, but personally. When you think about it, having a dirty car or truck isn’t much different than wearing dirty clothes. What does it say about you?”

Kate’s Auto Maids

KATE’S AUTO MAIDS304 Mt Paul Way250-851-9274


Kate Skene of Kate's Auto Maids.



WITH MORE THAN 20 YEARS IN making and installing cabinets and countertops, ReFace-It has many options for you when it’s time for a small renovation in your home or offi ce.

You may be surprised to know that you probably have more than half of what you need for a new kitchen and most homeowners don’t want to change their layout. If your kitchen is well-designed, well-built and functional, there is no reason to tear your cabinets out.

That’s a signifi cant savings in time, an important consideration because how long can you go without your kitchen? A complete kitchen project can last three weeks, which is a huge inconvenience.

Refacing a kitchen, on the other hand, is just two to fi ve days and includes new doors and drawer fronts made of ReFace-It’s exclusive heat-resistant, warp-resistant raised-panel, resin-core doors. You can also opt for solid wood for outstanding beauty and longevity.

With more than 300 door styles and colour combinations, you can fi nd exactly what you want to fi t your budget and give you years of satisfaction.

ReFace-It also carries beautiful, high-quality hardware and hinges.

Other options include matching cabinetry or a free-standing island, custom-made drawers and tracks, new countertops and backsplashes in laminate with Corian or wood accents.

Top: The Reface-It team is comprised of Derrick Blakeborough, owner Rob Dirksen and Peter Dirksen.

Bottom: Reface-It carpenters, Peter Dirksen, right, and Derrick Blakeborough, mount drawerfronts to a newly refinished kitchen.

Reface-It: New Suits You

TREFACE-IT

CABINET REFACING698 Sydney Ave 250-314-4795

www.reface-it.ca

you can fi nd exactly what you want to fi t your budget and give you years of satisfaction.

“


HAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU WHEN shopping for a car? Finding a place where you know you can trust someone to look after your needs and not theirs; fi nding a professional car sales representative who will fi nd the best car for you and your family at a price that won’t leave you crying and, equally important, dealing with someone with deep roots in the very city you live in who gives back to the community. Sounds like a tall order?

Places like that may not be numerous, but they exist. Family-owned and operated Rivershore Ram is one of them. Since their inception 25 years ago, they’ve made trust, respect and loyalty their core values. You’ll have someone looking after you, GM Dan Laporte promises, the way you’d be looked after by a friend. How is that possible you ask?

“Our sales representatives don’t work on commission,” Laporte explains. That means customers will never be sold a more expensive car just so someone can get a higher commission. Also, many of Rivershore’s sales representatives do not start out as experienced salespeople, but learn to become professional at what they do while learning the core values of the place. “The people who work here learn the skills of the trade anew; they also learn about trust and respect, and what it’s like to be part of one of the oldest Kamloops-based car dealerships,” explains Laporte.

The best way to put it is that there are no weak links in the chain; many of the people who work at Rivershore Ram Chrysler Dodge Jeep Dealership have been there long-term and create the family-like

environment Laporte is proud of. Just like he is proud that Rivershore gives back to the community by supporting junior hockey league teams and competitive curler Corryn Brown, participating as a team in the CIBC Breast Cancer Walk, donating to the Kamloops SPCA, the Christmas Cheer Fund and Pack the Patriot.

Rivershore Ram Chrysler Dodge Jeep

WRIVERSHORE RAM

CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP2477 E. Trans Canada Hwy.

1-888-318-9321www.rivershorechrysler.ca

Top: Rivershore Ram General Manager Dan Laporte.

Bottom: Rivershore Ram technician Jon Conway works on the suspension of a 2013 Dodge Ram 3500 truck.



KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF ITAt Rivershore Ram Dealership, customers are not

forgotten once they leave the dealership. “We follow up and make sure our customers are

happy with their purchase,” says Laporte. That customers are important is an

understatement. As the only “Women Certifi ed” dealership in town, catering to both men and women is a must for Rivershore Ram. Statistics show that women account for 57 per cent of direct purchases, Laporte explains. One could wonder why business would not make catering to women a priority.

Rivershore Ram takes pride in being the fi rst business in Western Canada to get the certifi cation and having two female sales representatives. It’s not just keeping up with the times; it’s showing respect for the customers with the late open hours during week days and weekends, too.

This kind of attention to detail evidently pays off: Rivershore Ram Dealership had an all-time record sales month in February 2013 and previous record sales in October 2012.

“We spend a lot of time training our sales representatives on how to better look after the customers,” says Laporte.

Certainly, the future appears bright for the Rivershore Ram Dealership. With the new building scheduled to open at the same location in May of next year, Laporte is looking forward to welcoming customers in the new offi ces and larger parking area. His excitement over the new facility matches the degree of satisfaction Laporte wants to see in every customer who walks in — a worthy goal indeed.

“We spend a lot of time training our sales representatives on how to better look after the customers

Top: Jeep Wranglers in various colours are on display at Rivershore Ram.

Middle: 2013 Dodge Ram 1500s sit in the lot at Rivershore Ram awaiting a new home.

Rivershore Chrysler sales manager, Cody Skene, talks to a customer about the new 2013 Dodge Rams.


T’S NO WONDER THAT RUNNERS SOLE IS THE premier running and walking shop in Kamloops.

With the store’s wide range of products in every category and the staff’s enthusiasm, Runners Sole meets all your needs from footwear to clothing to motivation.

Owner Wayne Richardson and his helpful, knowledgeable staff can help you fi nd the best shoe for your activity and body, whether it’s your fi rst pair of running shoes or your 50th.

“We pride ourselves on taking all the steps and measures to get information from the customer about what they’re doing,” Wayne said.

Staff ask customers several questions so they know how best to serve each person and make sure they get a perfect fi t.

“We don’t just grab whatever is the hottest new shoe on the market and sell it to them,” he said. “We explain why we’re selling them the shoe we are. That way, we know and they know they have the right shoe for their unique needs.”

Along with more than 325 pairs of shoes displayed on the wall, Runner’s Sole takes pride in staying on top of the latest trends and needs of athletes.

Something that is proving popular are the relatively new compression products, which are great for recovery and for athletes coming back from an injury.

“There are many clothing forms of compression products,” Richardson says. “Socks, tights, tops, sleeves that go over calves and more. We carry it all.”

At Runner’s Sole, they’re all about active lifestyles and service is an essential component of the company’s philosophy. Giving back to the community is also an integral part of the company’s philosophy.

Wayne hosts no-charge running clinics throughout the year for anyone who has an interest in any level of running.

“We offer clinics for free. People can look at www.runnerssole.com for times and places and come whenever they want,” he said. “We are more then just a running store!”

Your feet...your needs...your ‘sole’

RUNNERS SOLE Suite 74-1395 Hillside Dr.

250-377-4055www.runnerssole.com

Wayne Richardson, owner of Runners Sole, has the right shoe for your unique needs.

IKAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT

HE BEAUTIFUL AND CHALLENGING Chinook Cove Golf Course was born in 1991 when members of the Mitchell ranching family were brainstorming around the kitchen table.

They were looking for ways the Mitchell Cattle Company (which has been operating in the North Thompson Valley for more than 75 years) could diversify in an environmentally benefi cial way.

Today, golfers and RVers enjoy the results of their vision — a championship-length nine-hole golf course maintained to the highest standards.

These days, Chinook Cove draws people from as far away as Alberta and Vancouver to the Barriere area, benefi ting the ranch and boosting tourism in the region. The Mitchells make continual improvement a priority, which includes a larger, half-covered brick patio, an RV park with 18 fully serviced sites, and four more black tees, giving all nine holes four levels of play.

The fi rst four links-style holes wrap around a large water hazard with holes 1 and 2 totaling more than 1,000 yards. Holes 5 to 9

feature alpine challenges with a contentious ravine coming into play on holes 6 and 7. You’ll need your hottest driver on Holes 5, 7, 8 and 9, as well as 1, 2 and 3.

The licensed dining area includes Mitchell family beef, alpine-raised and hormone-free.

"People have watched our improvements and expansions over the years,” said course manager Susan Mitchell. “And each year they

return with more friends to experiencethe same connection.”

Of course, part of Chinook Cove’s success is due to Charlie, the 10-year-old golden retriever who is a “huge celebrity.

“He gets post cards, toys and treats, and two young RV guests even sewed him a dog bed,” said Susan. “He even has his own Facebook page.”

TChinook Cove Golf Course

CHINOOK COVE GOLF COURSE

5045 Boulder Mountain Rd. Hwy. 5

250-672-0119www.chinookcovegolf.com



B Who to Call When Building or Renovating Your Home

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

CENTRAL INTERIOR921C Laval Cres 250-828-1844www.chbaci.ca

UILDING OR RENOVATING A HOME HAS NEVER been as complicated or complex as it is today. With the new B.C. Building Code updated and implemented, a homeowner is best served with professionals who know their business and stand behind their products and services.

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Interior (CHBA CI) with its 200 home builders, developers, renovators, contractors, and other professionals directly related to the home building industry, can help you fi nd who and what you need.

The association has been around since the mid-1960s and has grown substantially over the years. The board of directors, which oversees the governance, is made up of highly committed professionals who provide infl uence and community involvement. Many have served for many years and it is under their tutelage that the association has raised its profi le and community involvement.

Many know of the annual YMCA/YWCA Dream Home Lottery, but did you know that this Dream Home is the training house project where the CHBA CI partners with Thompson Rivers University School of Trades and Technology to give fi rst-year trades’ students the opportunity to augment their in-class training with on-site experience?

This high-end home is then sold to the YMCA at a discounted price for their annual fundraiser.

The one-day house and home show in early March is co-ordinated by CHBA CI specifi cally for consumers interested in exploring new technology, services and products available for homes today. It includes the innovative element called The Pro Knows, which allows consumers to book a 30 minute complimentary private appointment with a builder, renovator or contractor to discuss any aspect of

home building they wish. In addition, the local provides education,

information, networking and recognition for our members and their guests. Along with our provincial and national arms, we are well positioned to advocate on behalf of our members for affordable, quality-built homes.

The CHBA CI offi ce is at 921C Laval Cres. and staff is knowledgeable and available to assist with questions related to our industry. If we don’t know, we will fi nd out for you. The CHBA CI offi ce is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Current CHBA CI's President, Brian Hayashi.

CHBA CI’s Residential construction is a signifi cant economic driver in Kamloops, with 510 housing starts in 2011. That meant 3,000 jobs in home construction, renovations and related fi elds — $205 million in wages and an investment value of $297 million. Canada Mortgage and Housing predicted similar numbers for 2012 and an increase in starts for 2013.

The association has been around since the mid-1960s and has grown substantially over the years.

“



OR THE PAST 10 YEARS I HAVE HAD THE PRIVILEGE of serving in public life as a City Councillor, Mayor and Member of the Legislative Assembly. This experience has allowed me to understand the special qualities of our city and region, and appreciate the needs of the people who call this their home. While public life has many challenges, it also gives one a tremendous opportunity to help shape the future of communities and indeed, the province. While much of the developed world is experiencing severe fi nancial challenges, British Columbia is performing extremely well with a balanced budget tabled for 2013-14 and a debt to GDP ratio of 17 per cent, which is among the lowest in the world. In

Kamloops unemployment is near record lows and building permit values are over $200 million once again. For the very fi rst time the North Shore outpaced other areas of the city, refl ecting the growing investment and confi dence in this great part of Kamloops. In the North Thompson we see busy sawmills and exciting potential for jobs in mining and tourism while Sun Peaks is enjoying a great snow year and great community spirit. We continue to make record investments in our region including projects at Norkam Secondary, TRU, and Royal Inland Hospital as well as substantial funding for recreation facilities and important water and sewer infrastructure throughout the North Thompson and Sun Peaks. If you would like more information about how your BC government works, please contact us.


Terry Lake, MLA

FTERRY LAKE

MLA, KAMLOOPS-NORTH THOMPSON618-B Tranquille Rd.

250-554-5413www.terrylake.ca

INCE OPENING ITS DOORS IN 1985, PRONTO Enterprises is one of the Interior’s premier landscape companies. Pronto provides a wide variety of professional services for both commercial and residential customers including: landscape design, paving stones, retaining walls, irrigation, outdoor lighting, planting, lawn-care programs and yard maintenance. Pronto also offers hydroseeding, a process that involves spraying a mixture of seed, water, fertilizer, tacifi er and wood/paper-fi bre mulch over an area to be seeded. Hydroseeding is offered mostly in commercial applications. Pronto’s experienced staff come equipped with numerous certifi cations in irrigation design, hardscaping (brick patios and

sidewalks) and softscaping (fl owers, plants, shrubs, trees, fl ower beds). The staff at Pronto take great pride in all that they do and look forward to providing successful landscape solutions for you. To fi nd out what's going on at Pronto Enterprises Visit:


Quality that’s built to last

SPRONTO

ENTERPRISES1025 Ricardo Road

250-372-9644www.prontoenterprises.com

Facebook.com/prontoenterprises

or www.prontoenterprises.com

Cooking up fun with the Gourmet KettleOURMET KETTLE FUDGE & POPCORN Company Ltd. features the most colourful, crunchy snack you’ll fi nd anywhere. People smile just by looking at the wall of colourful bins of Gourmet Kettle Popcorn and Gourmet Fudge in Valleyview Square.

Jason Schaak and Marnie Davis-Schaak make the gourmet popcorn and fudge for their store and wholesale it to other businesses. They also run fundraising programs with the popular product. They opened in August, bringing Kamloops a unique offering of more than

275 fudge recipes and more than 400 popcorn recipes.

Along with a growing number of staff, Gourmet Kettle Fudge & Popcorn Company has a growing product line, having added Spudniks potato chips that they season fresh on site. “We get orders from as far away as Alberta,” said Marnie.” We have something for everyone and provide a fun and interactive environment with lots of sampling.

“We are always innovating to keep things fresh and new for our regular customers.

Variety and quality is a big part of our foundation.” Marnie acknowledged that good news travels fast, and that has had a positive effect on their business. They are also “very interested in fl avour suggestions or ideas our customers bring forward,” said Marnie, so if there’s a fl avour you think you’d like, It may be worth suggesting.Along with that ongoing

growth, Gourmet Kettle is gradually adding complimentary products that are new to Kamloops.

Jason and Marnie have lived inKamloops for 36 years and enjoy its central location, close to the Okanagan and close to Vancouver.

“Our store has great highway exposure so we get a lot of out-of-town guests,” she said. It’s a good travel food because it doesn’t stain your upholstery.

Gourmet Kettle has donated to and supported Kamloops Minor Hockey, CrimeStoppers, RIH Auxiliary and the Kamloops Food Bank.

“We have a strong fundraising program to support local schools, sports teams and organizations,” she said.

Another good thing about gourmet fl avoured popcorn is that it’s “happy food — it puts people in a good mood,” she said.

Few can be grumpy with a piece of fresh fudge in their hands. Gourmet Kettle has loads of fudge fl avours to choose from, from the classic maple walnut and chocolate mint swirl, to the more unique red velvet and banana cream pie. And with summer just around the corner, don't forget to pop in for ice cream. Gourmet Kettle has 45 fl avours of soft serve to choose from.

GKAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT

GOURMET KETTLE2121 E. Trans Canada Hwy.

Unit 11250-377-0997

Left: Gourmet Kettle Fudge and Popcorn's owner, Jason Schaak, with his employees, Emily Davis, Kayla Schaak, Monique Houth, and Nicole Davis-Schaak.



HE SHUSWAP NATION TRIBAL COUNCIL and its affi liates have embarked on some ambitious programs to fi ll high demand employment opportunities.

Over this past year in Kamloops, SNTC has provided HealthCare Assistant training to 12 individuals and Offi ce Administration training to 9 individuals. Many of the graduates have jobs waiting.

Another program fi nishing this spring is Offi ce Administration Certifi cate training, to prepare graduates for offi ce work. Training programs to prepare students to work in banking, construction and other industries have been very successful.

SNTC is the recipient of Aboriginal Skills Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) funds for the B.C. Central Interior and from the Ministry of Advanced Education through the Aboriginal Training Employment Program (ATEP). The funding provides employment-related services and training programs for the region’s Aboriginals, status and non-status, on and off reserve. The SNTC training programs are responsive to the local labour market and the council works with industry and private-sector employers to meet their needs for a skilled workforce.

Federal, provincial and industry reports for several years have warned of an impending shortage of skilled workers in all sectors and have identifi ed the Aboriginal population as a partial solution to the challenge of fi lling employment opportunities.To meet some of the challenges, Clients are provided with certifi cate safety certifi cation programs that prepare them for the worksite; these include fi rst aid, WHMIS, ground disturbance, pesticide application and other related safety requirements. The SNTC is very proud of the success its clients achieve in obtaining good, sustainable jobs once they’ve completed the training programs.

TShuswap Nation Tribal Council

Above: The SNTC offers a 10-month program in health-care-assistant training. Shown is the graduating class of 2013.

Bottom Left: Swift water-rescue training is part of the health and safety program put on by the SNTC.

Bottom Right: The inaugural class of the office administration certificate program shows various collages depicting aboriginal culture, which was part of the six-month course.“

SHUSWAP NATION TRIBAL COUNCIL

680 West Athabasca Street778-471-8200

[email protected]

Over this past year in Kamloops, SNTC has provided HealthCare Assistant training to 12 individuals and Offi ce Administration training to 9 individuals.

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development and the Federal Government through the Ministry of Human Resources and Skills Development


T FIRST GLANCE, THE MODEST THRIFT store sitting at the west end of Victoria Street looks like any other thrift store, brimming with clothing and house wares. But The Thrift Seller, run by the Royal Inland Hospital’s Afternoon Auxiliary, is not a normal thrift store. Instead of just selling, the store is benefi ting its volunteers and the community.

“I’ve been here for fi ve years now,” said Jackie Novak, one of the many volunteers. Novak started volunteering at The Thrift Seller when she began looking for volunteer work and remembered that she had donated to the volunteer-run store.

“You’re helping in the community,” said Novak. “And it works both ways. It keeps me busy too.” She also chose to volunteer there because she knew it was for the hospital.

All the funds raised at the thrift store are donated to RIH. In 2011 and 2012, the funds went to the intensive care unit and ICU equipment.

However, the hospital is not the only one benefi ting from the volunteer work.

“I fi nd it comforting,” said Karen Sondergaard, the oldest volunteer working Monday afternoon. “I enjoy getting out too, getting away from my own place.”

Sondergaard volunteers at the thrift shop twice a week, working on the fl oor, picking up items and keeping the store organized. She volunteers twice a week because one day just wasn’t enough.

“It’s one of the least stressful volunteer positions I’ve ever been in,” said Monica Bochek, a new volunteer to The Thrift Seller. “Everyone’s always happy to be here.”

The Thrift Seller, 146 Victoria St., is open Monday to Saturday. Donations can be dropped off at the back entrance on Lansdowne Street.

ATHRIFT SELLER

146 Victoria St.250-374-0487

Thrift Seller benefi ting volunteers and community



Above:The Afternoon Auxiliary to Royal Inland Hospital representatives present $212,887.25 to Royal Inland Hospital Foundation’s CEO, Heidi Coleman for the purchase of critical patient care equipment at Royal Inland Hospital including two surgical tables, a 12 lead ECG machine, centrifuge (bench top) and microscope, all benefiting patient care and diagnosis. RIH Foundation would like to thank the Afternoon Auxiliary for their exceptional support!

Just think for a second: You’re in the hospital, almost ready to go home after a close call. You have your life back, but your clothes have been torn off by the paramedics while saving your life, which they did.

So you have no clothes, or maybe you have no one to drive you home, or you don’t have those basic things that make life more pleasant, more so in a hospital setting. Enter the Afternoon Auxiliary to Royal Inland Hospital. All of the above is taken care of with grace and smiles.

“The Afternoon Auxiliary’s mission is to raise money for patient care and equipment,” says Trudy De Luca.

The two major fundraisers for the Afternoon Auxiliary are the gift shop, located on the second

fl oor of Royal Inland Hospital, and the Thrift Seller, located at 146 Victoria St. in downtown Kamloops. If you’re wondering how much money can be raised by an organization run exclusively by volunteers, here’s a sum to amaze you: $212,887.25.

“Every year we make a pledge that we work towards, and almost every year we fulfi ll our pledge and have extra funds to put into the next year’s pledge,” explains Lois Priebe, the RIH gift shop convener.

The Auxiliary has been around for more than 100 years — founded in 1899 by 34 ladies of “good character” — and still true to its original

mission: To help people; from everyday needs to supplying funds for some critical patient care equipment that the hospital needs, like a portable heart monitor a few years ago, or last years’ purchase of two surgical tables, a 12 lead ECG machine, a bench top centrifuge and a microscope.

“We at the Auxiliary are trying to fi ll the gap between funding and supplying the basic equipment,” says De Luca.

For the 170 volunteers who put their work and energy into the auxiliary, the goal is as straightforward: To provide comfort and care for patients, and that includes both big equipment and all the basic things one needs and are often overlooked, from a toothbrush or soap, to a get-well card, a book or a ride home, and the clothes to go home in.

The gift shop, where you can fi nd beautiful handcrafted items by auxiliary volunteers and other artisans, and the Thrift Seller where you might be stumbling across your next treasure, are run by volunteers. The goal: To raise money for the Afternoon Auxiliary to benefi t the patients of Royal Inland Hospital.

The Afternoon Auxiliary is always looking for volunteers. Every year, volunteers are honored with a reception dinner hosted by the Royal Inland Hospital; yet another way to thank for their willingness to brighten people’s perspective, one hour at the time.

If time is not something you can spare at the moment, the Afternoon Auxiliary is happy to accept your support, whether fi nancial, or in form of donations for the thrift seller, or handcrafted items for the gift store.

“It’s one of the least stressful volunteer positions I’ve ever been in,




ORTFOLIO INTERIORS (formerly Black and White Décor) is a unique and inspiring 6,000-square-foot furniture store at 1216B Battle St. In addition to in-stock merchandise, Portfolio carries a sample of furniture, art, décor, area rugs, bedding and lighting that can be special-ordered for customers. Portfolio Interiors aims to be the only store you need to visit when you want something special for your home, including B.C.-made and Canadian-made furniture. The store is competitively priced, but also has a

price-match guarantee. And this year, with the company’s new truck and professional staff to manage deliveries, you can rest easy knowing your purchase is going to arrive safe and sound.

“We want happy customers who will rave about us to their friends and come back the next time they need something,” said manager Kathy Underwood. “Our goal is to have our store be your fi rst and last stop when you need to add that something special to your home.”

Portfolio Interiors

PORTFOLIO INTERIORS1216B Battle St.250-372-5045

www.portfoliointeriors.ca

PKAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT

DUCATION IS A NEVER-ENDING PROCESS AND WE can observe children learning from the day they are born. At the Kamloops Montessori School and it's affi liate schools, children age two to six are encouraged to learn in a calm, caring, peaceful environment that fosters independence, concentration and motivation. In an atmosphere of respect and encouragement, purposeful activities instil in them a lifelong love of learning.

Montessori teachers teach children about the world through varied curricula that include Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, Science, Geography, Art and Music. Classroom materials are self-correcting and

utilize all the senses. Montessori encourages freedom of movement so there is ample opportunity for a child’s social development. We study subjects using a didactic, hands-on approach. Lessons are given one-on-one or in a group in which each student’s individuality is cherished.

At the Kamloops Montessori Academy, the older children help the younger ones, which creates a strong sense of community. In helping others, children reinforce what they have learned and strengthen their sense of responsibility. The younger children love to learn from their peers and look forward to the day when they will also become mentors to younger children.

We have preschool programs from 8:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., as well as full-day programs from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We offer early arrival, lunch and exciting after-school care programs.

Do you need summer care? We have fl exible summer programs to suit your needs. Please visit our website at www.kamloopsmontessori.ca to get more information, see parent testimonials and to set up a tour of one of our four beautiful locations.

Kamloops Montessori

KAMLOOPS MONTESSORI

250-372-9945www.kamloopsmontessori.ca

E

Kami Cabs: Whatever, whenever

KAMI CABS250-374-9999

www.kamicabs.ca

LOCALLY OWNED KAMI CABS IS A major part of transportation services in Kamloops all year around.

Whether you are coming for skiing at Sun Peaks or Revelstoke mountain resort or for family vacation, our professional and government-licensed taxi service is your fi rst choice for transportation. By emphasizing quality and service, Kami Cabs has been providing contractual transportation services to local and national companies since 1973.

Our portfolio of contracted business include CN Rail, Canada Post, Arrow Transportation Systems and many others.

With 24-hour taxi and delivery service, our distinctive blue and white cabs are seen throughout the city. You can count on Kami Cabs for excellent, 24-hour service should your car break down, your car battery needing a boost, you need food or liquor delivered, or require delivery of a package or parcel locally or out of town.

Kami Cabs is your most reliable and fi rst source for pick up and delivering parcels, envelops and small parts. Unlike larger,

national delivery companies, payment can be made at the door upon pickup or delivery with exception to food and beverages. All you need is to call 250 374-9999 to provide addresses and our 24-hours-on-the-road cabs will take care of your delivery needs within minutes.

If your vehicle breaks down or you run out of gas, you needn’t call the tow truck; just call Kami Cabs with location, phone number and vehicle number. Our driver will provide the boost you need or drive you to the nearest gas station. If possible, we will also bring gas to your vehicle and you can pay our driver for gas plus delivery charge.

Book in advance and Kami Cabs driver will be waiting for you upon arrival at Kamloops Airport. Also, if booked in advance, we can take you to Sun Peaks Resort or to any town in B.C.

Kami Cabs provides 24-hour taxi transportation service to and from the VIA train station and Greyhound bus depot. Advance booking is recommended for

drops off as departures are time sensitive. Day or night, rain or snow, you can count on Kami Cabs to help you reach your long-distance destination.

Kami Cab driver, Denis Roland.



OULD YOU LIKE TO ENJOY THE comfort and luxury of resort life without the hassle and worry that come with traveling?

Parklane Pool and Spa has been providing that comfort and luxury in Kamloops for more than 30 years. Whether you’re looking for fi ne pools, lounges, spas, hot tubs, or games, Parklane Pool and Spa, Kamloops’ premier home-resort retailer, has it all.

Billiard tables, barbecues, patio furniture, saunas, pond equipment, gazebos, and, of course, swimming pools (in and above ground) are some of the many environmentally friendly home-resort products Parklane carries and services. With friendly staff and a team of servicemen and technicians, Parklane can make your backyard home-resort installation quick and easy.

“We also do backyard concept landscaping,” says Parklane owner Larry Gathercole, Parklane’s original owner, along with wife Jacquie. “Outdoor barbecues, outdoor fi replaces—the idea is to make your home your resort.”

Parklane’s convenient downtown location at 1388 Battle St. makes it easy

for luxury seekers to come into the 5,000-square-foot showroom and select and plan out their home-resort plans.

“We have displays of all the home recreational products,” says Gathercole. “Above ground pools are really nice and very affordable.

“Today we do a lot of infi nity pools—these are pools with waterfalls built into them, shooting jets, underwater lights and swim machines,” says Gathercole of the features available for in-ground pools.

Parklane’s motto: “We make it easy to take it easy,” is about service and the fact that Parklane has something for everyone.

“If you happen to be a pool player, come on down and buy a pool table; if you’re a person that would like to have some relaxation, maybe you need a sauna in your home or maybe you’d like an outdoor pond with a water feature in it.”

For those on a budget, Parklane has a

convenient fi nancing option so that you can enjoy resort living now, and pay later. Parklane Pool and Spa, part of the SIMA buying group, services anywhere within about a 100-mile radius of Kamloops.

With convenient showroom hours— 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday—you’ll be sure to fi nd time to come by and plan for your backyard home resort.

www.parklanepoolandspa.com

Parklane Pool and Spa’s owner and operator, Larry Gathercole.

Parklane Pool: Resort living in your own backyard

WPARKLANE POOL AND SPA

1388 Battle Street250-372-8581

[email protected]



EZZZY MOVING & CLEANING

1093 Norview Road250-851-1539

www.ezzzymoving.com

IF YOU HAVE EVER HAD, OR HEARD OF, A BAD EXPERIENCE resulting from hiring a low-cost moving company, you are not alone.

Jason and Aj Nijjer, along with Aj’s wife Nav, recognized the need for a better-quality moving company in Kamloops that didn’t charge customers a small fortune.

That’s why they formed E-zzzy Moving, providing Kamloops and the Interior with a trustworthy, affordable moving company.

“We saw a real need in Kamloops for quality, affordable moving,” said Jason. “The more we looked at the market, the more evident it became. There are some good-quality moving outfi ts in town and we admire them. But we can offer lower rates on local and long-distance residential and commercial moves.”

Aj, Jason and Nav started the business in 2011 and already have eight dedicated employees.

Always looking at the big picture, last September, Jason and his partner Kim Higgins introduced another level to the company by adding professional cleaning to E-zzzy’s services.

“Now, E-zzzy Moving and Cleaning provides environmentally safe cleaning services so the client can tend to more-pressing matters,” said Jason. “Cleaning doesn’t take a lot of skill, but it’s time-consuming to do it right. That’s where we can help — at both ends of the move,” he said. It has been an exciting 18 months for the foursome — the business has grown more than they anticipated, offering sound assurance that they were doing things right.

“We’re excited that people are fi nding premium-quality, safe, effi cient service at a reasonable price,” added Aj. “We always put our customers’ needs fi rst.”

“We’ve been able to add really good, reliable staff to assist in our commitment to consistent, reliable, hard work,” Aj said, “and that has made all the difference.

“Good workers don’t stay with bad employers,” said Kim. “Good workers make their way to companies that share their own standards and respect them for their work ethic.”

Aj, Nav, Jason and Kim are optimistic about the future, seeing business success and growth along with more charitable work. Their non-profi t work has included donating their moving services to get the local chapter of the multiple-sclerosis society into its new offi ce.

They also sponsored an event with TRU’s student organization and helped raise funds for the Kamloops Food Bank. It’s natural for Aj and Jason, who were born and raised in Kamloops by successful business owners. They have a strong sense that this is their community.

Don’t be surprised if you see E-zzzy adding more value to their customers by always developing new ideas and comprehensive services.

Moving and Cleaning made Ezzzy

Owners, Jason Nijjer, Kim Higgins and Aj Nijjer.



WENTY FOUR YEARS AGO, DOUGLAS GRAY established an information technology (IT) company, Graycon Group, with a unique approach to business. Graycon Group is an IT support and solutions company that supports Western Canadian businesses, that specializes in the design, implementation and support of all IT infrastructure and networking systems.

Established in 1989, Graycon adheres to a business mantra that includes karma, fl exibility and enabling business goals.

“We approach your technology as you do — as an enabler of your business goals,” said President and CEO Douglas Gray.

Graycon has since expanded into six offi ces spanning three provinces with locations in Kamloops, Kelowna, Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer and Saskatoon and employs more than 100 technical experts. Boasting hundreds of satisfi ed clients, Graycon services more than 400 small and medium-sized businesses as well as executes projects in the larger business sector. Growth and technology has allowed Graycon to provide valuable technical and strategic resources throughout Western Canada, enabling remote support to all clients.

A key component to Graycon’s success is its people. Graycon offers in-house and external training to ensure staff is qualifi ed with up to date skills and certifi cations. Grayconians are encouraged to keep their bodies as well as their minds engaged with a healthy work/life balance. Graycon believes in giving back to the community and has donated more than $1 million dollars to local charities as well as hundreds of hours in volunteer efforts.

“Our belief is simple,” says Gray, “if you do good things, good things happen.”

On April 30, Graycon will host the eighth annual Technology Showcase, in Kelowna. This one-day conference features more than 20 industry vendors and expects hundreds in attendance from local businesses. This year’s theme, Cost Savings in IT, looks to help businesses cut costs and save money on their IT needs.

Graycon Group

TGRAYCON GROUP102 - 1361 McGill Road

250.374.8002www.graycon.com

The Graycon head office in Calgary, AB is located in a strip of historic brick buildings in Calgary’s Beltline district.



OUR OLD TOOLS SERVED YOU WELL, but eventually, you didn’t need them anymore. They’re still good, so what do you do with them? Here’s an idea that can do a world of good.Bring your used tools to KMS Tools on Versatile Drive, up the hill from Costco, and the tools that served you so well will be sent around the world for community building projects.

KMS Tools in Kamloops is helping to bring relief to people in Haiti, Cuba, Uganda, Thailand and elsewhere. The company’s goal is to supply tools and equipment to those who can really use them to rebuild their homes, communities and lives.

When people in Uganda received a container of donated tools, they put them to use right away to renovate the 100-year-old Mengo Hospital. Through the use of these donated tools they were able to renovate the patient rooms and start work on clinic and treatment rooms.

Haitians received a shipment of tools as well. Through these donations, Haitians got to work repairing a church and a clinic. The goal is to build a school in every community — a visionary plan that would be impossible without donated tools. It will mean lower school fees and greater access to education.

In Thailand, donated tools have helped build a warehouse, a clinic, a school and a furniture-making shop. Builders are also constructing a training centre where people can learn a trade and make a living to provide for their families.

The donations are useful, and they’re appreciated: “Thanks again so very much for your generous

heart ... This is a big thing that you and your company are doing for missions like ours,” read a letter from New Generation Ministries after they received a truckload of donated tools.

“Tools can be very costly essentials to a missionary trying to help a small community or orphanage. The tools given to us were far from an old pile of tools in a bucket. This was a great and valuable gift of badly needed tools for both building projects and equipping craftsmen who are still working with tools from the Stone Age. “This is the kind of generosity that makes a real difference. Thank you again for your contribution to the work we are doing in Haiti.”

KMS TOOLS1780 Versatile Dr.

250-374-7300www.kmstools.com

Thailand

YKMS: ToolsfortheWorld.com

Uganda

GhanaHaiti

Grateful Recipients:

“This is the kind of generosity that makes a real difference.

Rod Tiessen, KMS Tools.


THE NEW LIFE MISSION HAS ALWAYS BEEN the place where those who need help the most can receive it.

In providing outreach services to those in need, Executive Director Stan Dueck says the New Life Mission has relied on the generosity of the community, something Kamloops residents have readily bestowed.

But now, he says, he’d like the Mission to give back to those who support it.

“We’re seeing more and more opportunities to help the community instead of us going out with our hands out,” he says.

Last fall during the United Way’s annual fundraising campaign, The New Life Mission was approached to cater fundraising lunches at Highland Valley Copper. It was a fi rst for the Mission’s kitchen and staff, says Dueck, and it proved a wonderful opportunity.

“We took 1,100 meals up there and, from our point of view, it was a huge success. Financially, we benefi ted, and it brought great energy to our staff. We were doing something different, and it was a big deal for us.”

Another opportunity came up in March when Thompson Rivers University culinary

arts students hosted a dinner for seniors at the outreach centre. The Mission provided the space and the kitchen facilities for the event, giving students an opportunity to showcase their skills and gain practical experience.

Dueck hopes to build more and existing partnerships in the year ahead, including the dental program.

“We have a dentist here two days a week and it has been very successful, booking 1,100 appointments a year,” he says.

The dentist, however, is retiring, so the Mission is searching for a replacement.

“He’s been here for about eight years and he’s so passionate for the homeless and for seniors — 30 per cent of what he does is pro bono.”

Mission wants to return favours

NEW LIFE MISSION346 Seymour St.250-372-9898

www.newlifemission.ca


ANADIAN TIRE WAS FOUNDED IN 1922 and has been serving Canadians all across the country for more than 90 years. Canadian Tire opened in B.C. in the early 1980s and the Aberdeen and North Shore stores opened in 1982. Locally owned and operated by Jack Juusola since 1985, the stores have received numerous expansions and renovations over the years, enabling them to prosper and grow even as large, highly competitive U.S. big-box retailers came to town.

On May 2, customers are invited to a grand reopening to celebrate the North Shore store’s complete renovation. The work began last September with the addition of 5,000 square feet of retail space to the existing 12,000 square feet.

“There is nothing we haven’t touched,” said General Manager Justin Mondor, “from landscaping, parking layout, complete new store layout with all new fi xtures that hold an additional assortment of more than 3,000 new products. We’ve created a friendlier shopping experience with wider aisles for shopping carts and power aisles for more product displays and bulk products. Our

garden centre will also have a new fresh look for the spring.”

Canadian Tire has also added store technology with three customer-friendly information centres, and all employees have received customer-service training through Canadian Tire University programs.

“Our goal is to be the best retail store and auto-service centre in the North Shore providing exceptional customer service — one customer at a time. If we do not have what you are looking for, we will get it for you,” said Alex McKinnon, who has managed the North Shore location for 14 years.

“Our Auto Service Centre has the most up-to-date equipment in the industry to repair your vehicle correctly,” said Mondor. “There is no job that any of our experienced licensed technicians cannot do.”

“Kamloops has a vibrant, strong and diverse economy, a great climate and a huge diversity of recreational opportunities from the arts to the outdoors. Canadian Tire is a perfect fi t here,” said owner Juusola. “We see steady growth in the Kamloops market and we are excited to play a part in that growth by providing great products, exceptional service and a new modern facility”

Canadian Tire manager Alex McKinnon with GM, Justin Mondor.

Keeps getting better

Canadian Tire944 - 8th Street250-376-2013

www.canadiantire.ca

CKAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT



YONS LANDSCAPING LTD. was founded in the early 1990s when Colin Lyons traded a mountain bike for his fi rst pickup to get started. By 1998, the company exceeded the limits for earnings and became a limited corporation in 1999.

Since then, Lyons has won numerous large-scale commercial projects and become an industry leader for outstanding workmanship. When Ford Motor Company launched its new Explorer here in B.C., Ford called on Lyons to do high-profi le projects in four locations in the Interior at the same time.

Lyons exceeded Ford’s expectations and further secured its position as a leader in the industry.

In 2003, Lyons launched its own garden centre to provide its own products and to service retail customers.

Since then, diversifi cation has been the norm at Lyons, with trucking and hauling of aggregate, contract hauling for other contractors and retail sales from its garden centre.

With winter operations, Lyons has become one of the region’s largest service provider. As a founding member of the Western Canadian Snow Plow Association, Lyons does contract hauling and support work for smaller contractors.

Lyons also supplies half its membership with ice-melting products, lowering costs with bulk buying and raising industry standards. For spring, Lyons is renovating its offi ces and retail space to lead the industry in going green,

launching two green initiatives: synthetic lawns and “green” walls indoors and outdoors.

The way Lyons is structured, retail customers can hire the very experts who sell the products.

“We are providing an improved one-stop shop with a consistent brand of Everything Landscaping, said Colin Lyons. “This is a new and unique concept in the Interior. Our retail store provides an interactive landscape inside the building with landscape design services.”

Our landscape design team works with our clients to design, build and create their visions of exceptional outdoor spaces.

LLYONS LANDSCAPING LTD.

1271 Salish Street250-374-6942

www.lyonslandscaping.com

Lyons Landscaping: Creating practical beauty

Now that spring has arrived, Lyons is busy renovating its offi ces and retail space to provide for an interactive customer experience and growth in landscape construction.

“


FREE METHODISTCENTENNIAL CHAPEL

975 Windbreak St.250-376-8332

[email protected]

LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH

2481 SUNSET DRIVE250-828-0788

VALLEYVIEWBIBLE CHURCH

2386 E. Trans Canada Hwy.250-374-7444

www.valleyviewchurch.ca

GATEWAY CITY CHURCH163 Oriole Rd.250-374-1050

www.gcchurch.ca

KAMLOOPS ALLIANCE CHURCH

250.376.6268233 Fortune Drive

www.kamloopsalliance.com

IT’S BEEN SAID THAT THE INTERNET IS destroying traditional means of communication, that being able to do anything and everything from the comforts of home has made people more individualistic and self-involved. While certain aspects of that may be true, the Internet has also made it easier to reach people, expanding audiences by overcoming distances and increasing convenience. It’s the Internet’s unique ability to connect people that Kamloops churches have started to take advantage of.

The use of various aspects of the Internet – social media, podcasts, websites and online streaming – is becoming more prevalent in churches around the city. The Valleyview Bible Church posts an audio version of their weekly sermons online; the Free Methodist Centennial Chapel releases their sermon outlines on a blog. The Gateway City Church and Kamloops Alliance Church both use Facebook and Twitter to interact with their members and Kamloops Alliance has started live-streaming their weekly worship service on Sunday mornings so people can watch from home.

“Online presence is such an important part of our world,” said Anthony Olson, Associate

Pastor at the Kamloops Alliance Church. “People from China and other places have tuned in and contacted us after, they wouldn’t have attended otherwise. We have some people who attend for a month online before even coming to our building and then they feel like they’re already a part of our community.”

According to Danica Grunert, receptionist at Gateway City Church, they make all of their worship services available on iTunes in the form of podcasts, so people can download and listen at their convenience, either at home or on the run. “We know of a few people in more rural communities who listen to those [podcasts] every week and they connect that way,” Grunert said.

It doesn’t appear that having an online presence has hurt the attendance of weekly in-person services. According to Grunert numbers at the Gateway City Church have remained

consistent over the last year and Olson says the Kamloops Alliance Church has actually experienced an increase in weekly attendance, with more than 800 people coming through the church each week

So while in-person services remain the priority for Kamloops’s churches, their initial foray into the digital world has been a successful one – allowing them to stay relevant in a changing world and connect to those who might otherwise be unable to access worship services.

Digital services in Kamloops churchesKAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF IT

EAGLEPOINT GOLF RESORT IN Barnhartvale is an 18-hole, par-72 public course designed by Robert Heaslip, best known for building straightforward, affordable courses throughout Canada.

“Once you’ve worked in Newfoundland, you can build a golf course on asphalt,” Heaslip once said. Fortunately, he had pristine conditions in Kamloops for what became Eaglepoint.

Heaslip used the varied, natural, forested terrain and elevation changes to great advantage. The course was built in 1991 through a beautiful, dense pine forest, creating a world of its own as each hole was played.

Many of the trees were lost to a pine-beetle infestation in 2007, but that only created opportunities for a beautiful new design. Now, in place of the 16,000 pines that were lost, golfers enjoy links-style terrain, mature, surviving pines and panoramic views of mountains, river valley and rolling hills.

Precision shots are still a critical component of the game as new owner, Dennis Hong, has introduced native fescues to areas that were once bare or treed. Each hole is unique, giving

the golfer a moment to pause and refl ect on the task at hand or what was. The strength and signature of the course are the four Par 3s.

Hong, general manager Ian Eggleton, proshop manager Brett Martin and their staff of 30 continue to work hard to implement continuous improvements. Players who frequent Eaglepoint will notice the rebuilt greenside bunkers, new short-game practice

area, some tee box and driving-range changes, and some renovations to the 14th hole.

Eaglepoint Golf Resort is a friendly, inviting and enjoyable place to spend time with friends or involved in tournament play.

“We want to change the perception of golf as an elitist sport,” said GM Eggleton. “We want everyone to feel welcome no matter your position or ability.”

Changing the perception of golf

EAGLEPOINT GOLF RESORT

8888 Barnhartvale Rd. 250-573-2453

www.eaglepointgolfresort.com



NE OF THE NEWEST INVESTMENT fi rms on the Kamloops landscape is Leede Financial Markets, one of Western Canada’s leading independently owned investment dealers, employing 90 investment advisors at offi ces in Kamloops, Brandon, Vancouver and Calgary, with eight of those advisors in the Kamloops offi ce.

The offi ce here opened in 2005, with all advisors coming from other fi rms and bringing with them a great deal of knowledge, experience and expertise.

The group of investment advisors in the Kamloops offi ce provides a diverse range of investment services, including life insurance, to their clients in their drive to help them achieve their short- and long-term goals.

Fully employee-owned, Leede Financial Markets is built on a commitment to professional excellence and personal service that began when it was established in 1987 and remains an integral part of operations today.

With more than 80 employees owning the fi rm, it is obvious that they are extremely proud of it and driven to ensure its long-term success. To that end, they provide a very client-centric

business. With ongoing client success, the fi rm is prosperous.

Leede is an independent fi rm enabling them to offer impartial advice. Where many large fi nancial corporations become less focused on the needs of the individuals, Leede Financial Markets advisors believe they will succeed by doing the opposite. All clients can be helped — no one is excluded because their account is too small.

The Leede Financial Markets offi ce provides the whole spectrum of investment vehicles — non-registered accounts, RRSPs, RRIFs, RESPs and Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs).

Many of the advisors in the Kamloops offi ce noticed that there was a lack of understanding of one of the most powerful new investment vehicles available to Canadians. As such, they dedicated themselves to learn and understand the Tax Free Savings Account and create strategies to take advantage of them. TFSAs are a complicated and misunderstood vehicle, but are powerful.

They have created some exciting strategies to harness the power of

TFSAs and believe they can help reduce the taxable income and provide long-term growth for clients. They have ensured that they are the TFSA experts in Kamloops.

Leede Financial is a growing fi rm in an environment of cost-cutting and downsizing. It grows in terms of size and the scope of products and services it provides. They are very proud of their independent spirit, and the fact that even with growth, Leede is able to maintain the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of a family enterprise.

This is not a generic investment fi rm but a group of individuals dedicated to providing timely, objective fi nancial advice to their current and future clients. If you are looking for an advisor to provide impartial advice and cutting-edge strategies, call one of the experienced investment advisors of Leede Financial Markets.

Member CIPF and IIROC.

Leede Financial Markets Inc. includes Gemma Laska, left, Don Barz, John Moon, Paul Trudeau, Ben Sears, Terry Wiebe, Al Richie, Cathy Vinterlik and Al Richie. Missing from photo is Tom Vinterlik.

Leede Financial: Committed to personal service

OLEEDE FINANCIAL200-301 Victoria Street

250-374-3150www.leedefi nancial.com



HE WESTSYDE NEIGHBOURHOOD CONTINUES to Grow and Prosper, as does the neighbourhood it serves. The WCDS continues activities and events, which support its goals and objectives to foster positive relationships amongst residents and promote more recreational opportunities for both adults and particularly youth in our neighbourhood.

The society sponsored both in January 2012 and 2013 our annual Winter Carnival and free swims in partnership with the City of Kamloops Aquatic staff. This event provided hot dogs, cake, coffee, and juice with games, and activities both on the pool deck and in the Activity Center. The society contributed to the Parks Master Plan, the Air Management Plan and provided representation at several City sponsored Community Group Forums, a Fundraiser Workshop, and in February sponsored our own Community Forum with four guest speakers on topics related to the operation of not-for-profi t groups. Our grant applications, activities and events help raise continued funds for our 10 per cent contribution toward construction of a Water Park in Centennial Park. The project cost estimate has been raised to $600,000 divided in half over two years and is currently in the 2013 City Optional Capital Budget. We continue to hold our successful annual Fall Craft Fair at the Westsyde Baptist Fellowship Church in November, monthly meat draws at the Westsyder Pub and work with the new City Community Development Coordinator Ben Chobater.

The society members and executive contribute information and articles to the Westsyder Pride newsletter, which is now published monthly. We have supported the new renovation and construction of the Westsyde Mall, particularly the new Overwaitea Food Groups’, Cooper's Food Store that was offi cially opened on Feb. 8. Behind the scenes we have promoted and supported a coffee shop, fast food franchise at the Mall for Westsyde. For the third year the WCDS will be sponsoring the Absolute Amazing Race on May 4-5, 2013. Information and application forms can be obtained on our website at www.westsyde.info.

Through the receipt of a box of donated archival materials documenting the history, formation and development of Centennial Park from 1957 to 1973, in partnership with the City of Kamloops a plaque and signage was erected on Sept.29 honouring the visionaries instrumental in collecting the 26-acre park. The Sports Complex was named after “Ralph Clearwaters” a park founder with four generations of his family present. These materials were eventually turned over to the

Kamloops Museum and Archives. The second annual community wide yard sale will

take place on April 27. It will include Oak Hills and there will be something happening at many places in the community that day. Currently the community is having a spring battery drive and collecting dead batteries as another fundraiser for the water park.

Information on how to have your battery recycled through us is available on the website.

The growth in the community comes with an increase in traffi c on our main artery in and out of the neighbourhood. The one road access creates a challenge in bringing more retail and services into the community even though our population is that of many small towns. More goods and services fulfi lling the consumer need here and the local jobs they’ll create are one of the few ways to reduce the fl ow in and out of the area.

The other challenge facing Westsyde is the Trans Mountain Pipeline which runs under the nighbbourhood. Hearing that the existing portion of the pipeline is unliklely to be changed and the expanded portion is probably going to be directed around the residential Westsyde area over the hills and through the Lac de Bois area, using an existing Telus fi ber optic right-of-way gave much of the public a sigh of relief.

The society executive continues to meet every second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Westsyde Community Activity Room located off Bebec Road behind the Westsyde Secondary School. Our meetings are open to the public and we welcome all attendees. The Westsyde Community Development Society continues to meet its community objectives and Society Act registration as a not-for-profi t society to improve the Westsyde community and those who live in it. The society is strong and prospers because neighbourhood residents know us and support our vision.

TRediscover Westsyde

“The growth in the community comes with an increase in traffi c on our main artery in and out of the neighbourhood.

From top to bottom: Westsyde Cooper's Food Store ribbon cutting ceremony.

Four generations of the Ralph Clearwaters family at the unveiling of the Sports Complex signage naming it after him as a founder of Centennial Park.

WCDS President Diane Kuchma and Mayor Peter Milobar dedicating bronze plaque to the founders of Centennial Park.

Clinton W. Gray, Comedian & Conjourer.

WESTSYDE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY

wcds.westsyde.info

WESTSYDE HOME HARDWARE

#16 - 3435 Westsyde Rd.Shopping Centre250-579-9911

WESTSYDE HAIR SALON#12 - 3435 Westsyde Rd.

Shopping Centre250-579-5335

WESTSYDE COUNTRY DAY MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL

AND KINDERGARTEN2990 Westsyde Rd.

250-579-2465

WESTSYDE DENTAL CENTRE2990 Westsyde Rd.

250-579-2080

COOPER'S FOODS3435 Westsyde Rd.

250-579-5414

CEDAR DENTAL CLINIC3122 Westsyde Rd.

250-579-8104



ROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS with 68 runners in 1998, The Daily News Boogie has grown into the largest 1K/5K/10K and 21K event in Kamloops. This year, 2,000 are expected to walk or run the route, Sunday, April 28.

Boogie organizers are thrilled with the community support and look forward to the high-fi ves at the high-energy fi nish line. Friends, family and co-workers of participants are all invited to join in the fun at some level, even if it’s just as a spectator. The enthusiasm is infectious, so the feeling is “the more, the merrier.”

The Daily News Boogie website sums it up well.

As we say at Boogie: Movement is change! What we didn’t know when we started saying that is the extent of change we would see in 2012.

Last year alone, we were able to donate more than $50,000 to our chosen charities: Big Sisters Big Brothers of Kamloops and the Boogie the Bridge Cultural Fund. We are partners again this year with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Our Boogie event is a supportive, fun walk or run that accommodates all paces and lets you choose the distance you want. Daily News Boogie volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that this is a safe, well organized event for you and your family.

We welcome participants with strollers, but due to the sheer numbers of participants, we ask you to leave your bikes, roller blades, scooters and the like at home.

And for obvious reasons, dogs, i-Pod-style devices or other distractions are not permitted on the course.

All Boogie participants can ride public transit for free on race day. Just show your Boogie race bib to the driver and away you go. Also this year, the Opening ceremonies and our half-marathon will both start at 8:30 a.m.

The Daily News Boogie training program is perfect to accomplish a 5k or 10k run or walk and, most importantly, to create vibrant health and happiness. Boogie is a wellness-training program with emphasis on love, passion, energy and change.

Boogie training is an all-inclusive program where there is a pace-for-everyone. Whether you are a seasoned runner or a fi rst-time walker, you will have no trouble fi nding a distance and training program that is perfect for you. For more info contact [email protected] or go to www.dailynewsboogie.com.

DAILY NEWS BOOGIE250-579-5980

www.dailynewsboogie.com

FBoogie: Movement is change

Boogie participants of all ages taking part in the event.“Last year alone, we were able to donate more than $50,000 to our chosen charities



KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF ITYEARS IN BUSINESS

ST. ANN’S ACADEMY205 Columbia St.250-372-5452www.st-anns.ca

Years in Business

133 KAMLOOPS BC SPCA1211 8th St.250-376-SPCA (7722)www.spca.bc.ca/kamloops

Years in Business

112 THE SALVATION ARMY344 Poplar St.250-554-1611 Years in

Business

98

Kamloops BC SPCA

KAMLOOPS SOCIETY FORCOMMUNITY LIVING521 Seymour St.250-374-3245www.kscl.ca

Years in Business

57

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERSOF KAMLOOPS & REGION821 Seymour St.250-374-6134www.bbbskamloops.ca

Years in Business

50

ASSOCIATION FRANCOPHONEDE KAMLOOPS348 Fortune Dr.250-376-6060 Years in

Business

34

Big Brothers Big Sisters

of Kamloops & Region

KAMLOOPS UNITED WAY203-239 Victoria St.250-372-9933www.unitedwaytnc.ca

Years in Business

54

PEOPLE IN MOTION182B Tranquille Rd.250-376-7878www.peopleinmotion.org

Years in Business

24

RIVERBEND MANOR760 Mayfair St.250-376-6536www.rivercityseniors.ca

Years in Business

46

NEW LIFE MISSIONOUTREACH CENTRE181 W. Victoria St.250-434-9898www.newlifemission.ca

Years in Business

33WESTERN CANADA THEATREwww.wctlive.ca Years in

Business

37

CARIBOO CHILDCARE SOCIETY900 McGill Rd.250-828-5160www.tru.ca/daycare

Years in Business

40

KAMLOOPS AND DISTRICTELIZABETH FRY SOCIETY827 Seymour St.250-374-2119www.kamloopsefry.com

Years in Business

40

KAMLOOPS HOSPICEASSOCIATION72 Whiteshield Cres.250-372-1336www.kamloopshospice.com

Years in Business

32KAMLOOPS FOOD BANKFOOD ACTION CENTRE171 Wilson St.250-376-2252www.kamloopsfoodbank.org

Years in Business

32

CHRIS ROSE CENTREFOR AUTISM1111 Tranquille Rd.250-376-6494www.chrisrosecentre.com

Years in Business

24ASK WELLNESSCENTRE433 Tranquille Rd.250-376-7558Email: [email protected]

Years in Business

21 MS SOCIETY OF CANADA275A Seymour St.250-314-0773www.mssociety.ca/kamloops

Years in Business

14

KAMLOOPS BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION408 Victoria St.250-372-1799www.kbia.ca

Years in Business

27SENIORS OUTREACHSOCIETY127-540 Seymour St.250-828-0600www.kamsenioroutreach.ca

Years in Business

26

New LifeMission

KamloopsHospice

Association


KAMLOOPS VISION 2013 AT THE HEART OF ITYEARS IN BUSINESS

INTERIOR VAULT LTDinteriorvault.com

Years in Business

116 GIDDENS SERVICES LTD1613 Valleyview Dr.250-372-8842www.giddensservices.ca

Years in Business

99 BROWN’S REPAIR SHOP LTD220 Lansdowne St.250-372-3656

Years in Business

91

FORTUNE CENTRE750 Fortune Dr.250-376-4129

SAHALI CENTRE945 Columbia St.250-374-2811

Years in Business

58

DR. BARRY DEXTRAZEDENTIST#21-750 Fortune Dr.250-376-5354www.drdextraze.com

Years in Business

38

NEWELL FLOWER SHOP LTD357 Fourth Ave.250-374-4402www.newellfl owershop.com

Years in Business

75

BERWICK ON THE PARK60 Whiteshield Cr. South250-377-7275www.berwickrc.com

Years in Business

11

FLYNN MIRTLE MORAN207 - 310 Nicola St.250-374-7731www.fmmkamloops.ca

Years in Business

51

THE KAMLOOPS DAILY NEWS393 Seymour St.250-372-2331www.YourNewsNow.ca

Years in Business

81

TENISCI PIVACHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS261A Victoria St.250-372-7655www.teniscipiva.comd

Years in Business

33SURPLUS HERBY’S248 Tranquille Rd.250-376-2714www.surplusherbys.com

Years in Business

42

IJ WINDOWS ANDDOORS LTD250-376-1021www.ijwindowsanddoors.com

Years in Business

44

BUTLER AUTO & RVCENTRE142 Tranquille Rd.250-554-2518www.butlerautoandrv.com

Years in Business

43

TOTAL CARPETUPHOLSTERY & VENTCLEANING LTD.250-554-3933 Years in

Business

26 JUBILEE RV CENTREHalston Connector250-372-06001-800-497-4851 Years in

Business

23

THE CUTTING LOUNGE1300 Summit Dr.250-374-0551www.thecuttinglounge13.com

Years in Business

10 STOBBE EXCAVATING LTD250-851-0011

Years in Business

10TOURNAMENT CAPITALCENTRE910 McGill Rd.250-828-3655www.tournamentcapital.com

Years in Business

6

PAWS-N-TAILSDOG GROOMING864C 8th St.250-376-6533

Years in Business

23CACTUS COLLISION& PAINT969A Laval Cres.250-374-9995www.cactuscollision.com

Years in Business

20

INTERIOR VAULT LTDinteriorvault.com

BROWN’SREPAIR SHOP LTD.

Est 1922

YourNewsNow.ca

newell fl ower shop ltd.

since 1938

Real Estate Appraisers and Consultants

“More than just a Value”

YOUR LOCAL DEALERDDDDDDEDEDDDDDDDDEDDCAAALLLLL CAAALLLLL

TOTALCARPET UPHOLSTERY &

VENT CLEANING LTD.DOG GROOMING


OME HOME TO THE HILLS, IS A PHRASE well known to anyone already living in Aberdeen, along with “Close to Shopping, Close to Nature, Close to Perfect.”

However, with the redevelopment of the old Aberdeen Links Golf course into the West Highlands community, the area is quickly becoming known as more than just another Aberdeen neighbourhood.

A vibrant and thriving community with “Benefi ts” is emerging, says Chris Bebek, Aberdeen Highlands general manager.

A recent poll of residents in Kamloops’ Newest Comprehensive Residential Community wasn’t surprising, the Top 3 benefi ts identifi ed were The Views, Walking Proximity to Pacifi c Way Elementary and the Open Spaces.

These were given, says Bebek, but they were just a few of a wider range of benefi ts residents can expect when living in West Highlands. Although there is ongoing construction, the quietness of the neighbourhood was at the top of the list along with the anticipated development of the Aberdeen Park.

The new Firehall is a highlight, attracting attention from both the neighbourhood children and the female population.

To top it off, the addition of a daycare “Kids Time Childcare” is scheduled to open for September intake, providing newborn to age 5 childcare with some availability for ages 5 -12.

Another unique feature is fi bre optics technology direct to homes, says Bebek. For those who work from home, looking to incorporate smart home features or want the true Optik TV experience, the technology is here and available thru Telus.

CAberdeen Highlands: Come home to the hills

ABERDEEN HIGHLANDS DEVELOPMENT CORP.205 - 1410 Pearson Place

250-828-1676www.aberdeenhighlands.ca



But of all the benefi ts the new community offers, by far the biggest is the new park. The park is the largest neighbourhood asset to come to Aberdeen as a whole and not just West Highlands, but of course the proximity of West Highlands to the park is certainly a huge benefi t. Approximately 38 acres in size, access to walking and hiking trails, wildlife corridors, community clubhouse, playing fi elds, and more will be a short stroll from all residences. Construction of two soccer fi elds has started with details of other amenities being unveiled in the next few months in a second public open house. Everyone is anxious and excited to see what other amenities are planned says Bebek.

Unlike other communities that target the empty nesters or the 55+ market, West Highlands is appealing more and more to families, but that hasn’t stopped all the other market segments from making West Highlands their home either. Aberdeen’s housing options have never been better, a wide variety of housing styles and price

points starting at $314,900 are appealing to every age and income.

First-time homebuyers or those looking for maintenance free living have four unique options; Carradale Court, a bareland strata offering detached homes is just across the street from the school; Stirling Heights, a

semi-detached strata development incorporates a contemporary theme on the more traditional forms and overlooks the pond and old clubhouse. Livingston Court a townhouse style development and daycare by Fulcrum Development is expecting to have two and three bedroom units available starting this fall.

And just announced, Pacifi c Ridge Estates, an upscale 24 unit gated community brought to you by D.W. Builders will be located along Pacifi c Way and is expected to start development this spring. The views and location to the park will be superb, says Bebek.

In addition to the unique strata developments, the single family neighbourhoods are well underway offering a variety of lot characteristics for those looking for larger homes and or more privacy. Crosshill Drive still has a few outstanding view lots available with the latest street Dunbar Drive offering a more affordable price point. Additional lots will be available later this year with the extension of Dunbar Drive.

Of course there are a number of homes offered thru the Aberdeen Highlands builders, at various stages of construction, fi nished homes are available now and others under construction offering the opportunity to pick colors and fi nishing’s.

More information or a full listing of availabilities can be found at www.aberdeenhighlands.ca or by calling Aberdeen Highlands at 250-828-1676. West Highlands, Pick your Perfect Location and Come Home to the Hills.

Contemporary view home on Linfield overlooks the park and North Thompson Valley. It also incorporates xeriscaping for almost no maintenance — very appropriate for the Kamloops climate.

“In addition to the unique strata developments, the single family neighbourhoods are well underway offering a variety of lot characteristics for those looking for larger homes and/or more privacy.


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