STORIES THAT INSPIRE Success from one industry to the next - 16 FACES
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Norm Gardner
Owner/Artist
Bobbi Farrer
Co-owner
STORIES
THAT INSPIRE
Success from one industry
to the next
16 FACES
PUTTING A FACE TO & the stories
THE ORGANIZATIONS behind them
IN OUR COMMUNITY
Editor’s Letter
Interviewing each and every newcomers alike, Kamloops’
one of them reinforces what business community is vast
we’ve all known for decades. and diverse and includes the
Kamloops is a special place. businesses you’ll read about
A place where the vibrant in the upcoming pages --
business community supports Denali Landscaping (page 14),
and shapes society and vice Sweet Spot Cupcakes (page
versa. 10), Martin & Martin Lawyers
(page 28), Jones Brothers
Yes, the city has a spectacular Construction (page 24),
location at the confluence Psychocity Tattoo (page 08)
of the North and South and River City Nissan (page 30).
Thompson rivers, nestled
in mountains with enviable All the other leaders,
weather. But, it’s the people, businesses and organizations
businesses, government, profiled in these pages also
organizations, institutions contribute to the fabric of
and community groups Kamloops in their own special
that make Kamloops a way.
community. A community with
YOUR STORY
an outstanding standard of After all, as I’ve already said,
living and quality of life full of Kamloops is a special place.
opportunities, recreation and
amenities.
IS OUR BUSINESS You’ll be inspired as you
We all know why we live here.
And others want a piece of the
action. That’s why as people
read about the people in reflect on their lives in other
the next 30 pages of this cities, some come to the Steve MacNaull
magazine. conclusion they too want to live Editor and journalist,
in Kamloops and be part of the NowMedia Group
All of them are leaders magic.
ARE YOU READY TO TELL Let’s Connect
in their respective fields
from construction, It’s a phenomenon that’s even
YOUR STORY?
counselling, selling more prevalent as people
cars and cannabis from Vancouver, Edmonton,
to veterinary and Calgary and Toronto flee the
naturopathic medicine, big city for the promised land.
NowMediaGroup.ca (250) 862 8010 landscaping, tattoos and
cupcakes.
To support this growth, and
serve long-time residents and
Divisions of FACES OF K AMLOOPS 1
Table of Contents
Kamloops
Vision Therapy
Optometry
DR. TAMSYN
SITLER
VETERINARY MEDICINE 04
CANNABIS 06
Vol 2. TATTOO ARTISTRY 08
BAKING 10
WINE BARREL FURNITURE DESIGN 12
LANDSCAPING 14
FACES OF KAMLOOPS
2021 COUNSELLING 16
LEATHER, VINYL AND PLASTIC REPAIR 18
PUBLISHER
16 Flights Publishing House VISION THERAPY 21
A division of NowMedia Group
HOME DESIGN 22
MANAGING EDITOR
Jim Csek CONSTRUCTION 24
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE 26
CONTRIBUTORS
Taylor Siemens
LAW 28
Steve MacNaull
Ellen Schwenkedel AUTOMOTIVE 30
Andrew Nash
Laina Burton REAL ESTATE 32
Taylor Field
Sydney Baerg STORYTELLING 34
Copyright © 16Flights Publishing House
2 FACES OF K AMLOOPS
THE FACE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE “Pets adore you, relieve stress, are incredible companions and enrich our
lives so much... I became a veterinarian because I strive to provide the best
service and care for pets and their humans”
Tranquille Road
Animal Hospital
DR. SHARMA
D r. Sharma believes every
household should have
a pet. The veterinarian is
Humans are required to
give the background and
perspective. And then a
After working in Abbotsford
for a few years, he moved
to Kamloops in 2010 to
probably a little biased due physical examination and establish Tranquille Road
to his profession and because various diagnostic tests can Animal Hospital, as the sole
he loves cats and dogs. determine exactly what is proprietor.
wrong with the pet.
However, there’s science Since then, Dr. Joshi and
and sentiment behind his Tranquille Road Animal others have joined the
declaration. “Pets adore you, Hospital is a general practice. “Dr. Joshi went to
relieve stress, are incredible veterinary practice that the same vet school in India
companions and enrich provides emergency care, that I did,” added Dr. Sharma.
our lives so much,” said routine medical care, various Dr. Joshi has since moved on
Dr. Sharma, the owner of soft-tissue and orthopedic to open his own clinic.
Tranquille Road Animal surgery, vaccinations,
Hospital. “I became a and spay and neutering, Dr. Sharma says he wouldn’t
veterinarian not just because preventative health care, be where he is today without
I love dogs. I became a dental care and veterinary the tremendous amount of
veterinarian because I strive prescription diets. personal and professional
to provide the best service support he’s received from
and care for pets and their Dr. Sharma was born and family, friends and customers.
humans.” raised in India, where he had
a pet dog. He earned his Dr. Sharma’s plans include
After all, veterinary medicine PhD in veterinary medicine constantly growing and
is almost as much about in India and moved to improving Tranquille Road
humans as it is about Abbotsford in 2004. “There Animal Hospital by hiring
animals. “That’s right,” said were better prospects in more veterinarians and
Dr. Sharma with a laugh. “You Canada,” said Dr. Sharma. extending hours beyond its
have to talk to the humans “And in Canada there are already extensive seven-day-
first to help find out what the more pet dogs and cats a-week openings.
problem is because pets can’t and my veterinary medicine
speak.” interest has always primarily
been dogs and cats.”
4 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 5
W ill Anderson considers
himself more of a tour
guide than a sales guy. And
(tetrahydrocannabinol) is the
psychoactive compound that
produces the high sensation.
Casey Paulsen is a budtender, a
riff off the bud part of the plant The gig as budtender is the
that most cannabis products “best job ever,” according to
are made of. Casey. “For 10 years before
this I worked as a registered
The two work at The Shore veterinary technologist and
Cannabiz Shop at 399 was feeling burnt out,” she says.
Tranquille Rd. in Kamloops, “This job at The Shore is so
where unconventional job titles good for me because I’m still
are encouraged and supported. working in a care industry, but
After all, this is recreational with people who I’m helping
cannabis retail, which while navigate what they are looking
now legal, is still based in fun, for, be it flower, pre-rolls,
irreverence and sub-culture. vaporizers, concentrates or
edibles.”
“Definitely, I don’t consider
myself a salesman,” says Will Casey is also The Shore’s
with a laugh. “I’m more of a resident chalk artist responsible
tour guide, the guy who chats for an ever-changing rotation
with you to find out what of blackboards featuring
experience you’re after in order images that incorporate
to suggest the options for you cannabis products.
to make a decision.” For instance, the celestial scene
Order of appearance: Beau Jardine, Caitlyn Childs, Will Anderson, Casey Paulsen and Anthony Moreau-Coulson promotes the Moonbeam
In fact, if customers are happy, strain, the chimpanzee
Will’s happy. Will’s official title smoking a doobie highlights
is assistant manager. “I like the Monkey Glue strain and the
nothing better than someone astronaut carries a cup full of
THE FACE OF CANNABIS coming in and saying:
You nailed it with that last
recommendation, man,” says
Deep Space cannabis-infused
beverage.
Will. The Shore is Kamloops’ first
private cannabis store and is
Such an approach is required family owned and operated
The Shore
because The Shore Cannabiz by Chris and Nadine Lyth and
“I like nothing has a clientele that ranges from their daughter Danielle. “We
nervous and shy first-timers, truly are a Mom and Pop shop
better than white-collar connoisseurs and where we focus on training
someone coming housewives to skaters, blue and education for our staff so
Cannabiz Shop
collar recreationalists, hard- they become well known in the
in and saying: core partiers and seniors after city for their knowledge and
You nailed it some therapeutic CBD. customer service,” says Chris.
with that last By the way, cannabidiol “The staff has really built the
(CBD) is the active ingredient popularity of the store. They
recommendation, in marijuana with non- listen to customers and match
WILL ANDERSON AND CASEY PAULSEN man.” high, calming and healing them to the right product at
properties, while THC the right time.”
6 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 7
and lawyers with full sleeves to the Tournament Capital and drove early every morning for
THE FACE OF TATTOO ARTISTRY and tattoos all over. Tattooing set up Psychocity Tattoo here five weeks to Kelowna for his
might have started for sailors in 2013. They knew two people radiation treatments and then
and prison inmates, but it’s in the city than and have built straight back to Kamloops so
definitely mainstream now.” the business based on great he could put in a day of work at
customer service. Psychocity.
The reasons are myriad. “Your
body is a canvas that can be Norm is so dedicated to his Norm’s been cancer free for
decorated,” explained Norm. craft that when he had throat over five years now.
“It’s personal. It’s an expression cancer in 2014, he and Bobbi
of your personality. Tattoos
can be a roadmap of your life,
depicting your loves, your kids,
your parents, your travels or
just something you simply like.” Norm Gardner
OWNER/ARTIST
As such, getting a tattoo and
wearing it the rest of your life
is an experience. “Quality is the
“NORM” in the industry now,” Bobbi Farrer
said Norm. “We don’t just sell CO-OWNER
tattoos, we sell trust. We set
ourselves apart by providing
a quality product and great
experience. We’re not just
tattooing someone, we’re
giving them an experience.
Order of appearance: Kelly Norwood, Gabrielle Tompkins, Kate Black, Jason (DesignOne) Crawley, Tattoo artists are basically
Bobbi Farrer and Norm Gardner. entertainers and therapists.
We’re hands on, so there has
to be a bond between tattoo
“It’s personal. It’s an expression of your personality. Tattoos can be artist and client.”
a roadmap of your life, depicting your loves, your kids, your parents,
Norm’s forte is black and grey
your travels or just something you simply like.” realism. He prefers not to do
colour in the tattoos he creates.
Psychocity
But that doesn’t mean clients
K amloops loves its ink.
In fact, tattoo artist Norm
Gardner estimates almost
can’t have colour in their
tattoos because artist Kate
Black utilizes colour and sports
Tattoo
80% of adults in the city have in a neo-traditional style. Artist
tattoos. Kelly Norwood also embraces
colour along with a traditional,
He should know. He’s the co- old-school-sailor-tattoo artistry.
owner, along with girlfriend If colour and new school trends
Bobbi Farrer, of Psychocity are your thing, then artist Jason
Tattoo, Apparel and Supplies at Crawley is your guy.
NORM GARDNER #3 - 177 Tranquille Rd. Norm started Psychocity in
Saskatchewan in 2003.
“Tattoos are creating a new
history,” said Norm. “It might However, the ride on his Harley-
just be someone with a small Davidson through Kamloops
tattoo or it might be nurses, in 2012 led to him and Bobbi
doctors, firefighters, athletes to pull up prairie stakes, move
8 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 9Sweet Spot
“I really, really love what I do
and I so enjoy seeing people’s
eyes light up when they are
Cupcakes
choosing a cupcake...”
cupcakes and cakes are made
with care and real ingredients-
PAIGE KNAPP -flour, sugar, milk, butter,
cream, chocolate and natural
flavours. “You can do so many
creative things with simple, real
when they are choosing a ingredients,” says Paige.
Cupcakes are 80% of cupcake from the display
Sweet Spot’s business case or get a look at the Paige first started to work
at Sweet Spot in 2017 as a
custom cake I made for
their birthday, anniversary cupcake decorator under
or wedding.” previous owner Natalie
Paige Knapp Fournier. When Natalie wanted
C elebrity chef Julia Child
once famously quipped:
A party without cake is just a
BAKER, CEO Cupcakes are 80% of
Sweet Spot’s business and
to sell the business in late 2019,
Paige jumped at the chance to
the shop can sell more be the new owner.
meeting.
than 400 of them a day in “A party without cake
the busy summer season. “Like every little girl, I always is just a meeting.”
Paige Knapp, who owns
“We do 16 standard baked with my mom and
Sweet Spot Cupcakes in - Julia Child
flavours and always have grandma and also tried my
Kamloops with her husband,
some seasonal flavours on hand at cake making in high
Stuart Knapp, agrees 100%.
the go, too,” says Paige. “I’d school,” says Paige. “But I went
In fact, Sweet Spot has the
say salted caramel, which to Thompson Rivers University
Child’s quote scripted on its
also happens to have a for event management and
chalkboard at its shop at 1415
salted caramel filling, is thought I would be a wedding
Hillside Drive and it’s also one
our No. 1 seller.” planner. But then Sweet Spot
of the first things you see when
came to me and made me
you visit SweetSpotCupcakes.com.
Rounding out the top realize I’d always wanted my
five are: red velvet with own business. It’s changed our
Cupcakes and cakes are
authentic cream cheese lives. I want it to be a family
inherently celebratory, even
icing, chocolate (everyone business for generations.”
if the only occasion is you
devouring a cupcake or piece loves chocolate), Boston
of cake. Elaborately decorated cream (like the donut with
and wholesomely made real Bavarian cream filling,
cupcakes and cake are not only better because, of
just eye candy, but delectably course, it’s a cupcake) and
delicious, the ultimate feel- carrot with real carrot and
good and shareable treat. pineapple pieces.
THE FACE OF BAKING
“It’s definitely a happy business
to be in,” says Paige with For the winter the
excitement. “I really, really seasonal favourites are
love what I do and I so enjoy hot chocolate and white
seeing people’s eyes light up chocolate cranberry. All
10 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 11THE FACE OF WINE BARREL FURNITURE DESIGN
LMB Designs “Very quickly it went
from killing some time
MARC ROBITAILLE and playing around
woodworking to turning
every piece is unique and
my hobby into a
one of a kind. The character full-time business.”
of the wine barrels comes
It all started in April when
Marc Robitaille decided
the drab propane fire
through because we leave
some sections of each piece
showcases throughout the
Thompson and Okanagan.
By the way, LMB stands
unsanded and exposed so you
pit on his deck needed a for Lisa, Marc and Bodie, a
can see and feel where the
makeover. nod to the whole family’s
red wine saturated the wood
involvement in making the
for years.” Fire tables made of
So, he bought a used oak new business a success. In fact,
wine barrel wood are LMB’s
wine barrel and crafted the keys to success for LMB
No. 1 bestseller. “It started with
it into an eye-catching are determination, hard work,
a quarter barrel fire table and
wood fire table. “When sacrifice and, of course, the
it quickly expanded to a half
I started to work with resulting stunning, character-
barrel, three-quarter barrel and
that first wine barrel, laden products.
full barrel,” explains Marc.
it just clicked,” says “Those barrels can also be
Marc of LMB Designs in LMB has a few pieces in the
regular tables with umbrellas
Kamloops. “Very quickly showroom at Marc’s house,
that you need chairs or stools
it went from killing some which you can view and
to go round, which I also make
time and playing around purchase by appointment.
out of old wine barrels.”
woodworking to turning You can also browse online
my hobby into a full-time at lmbdesigns.shop or the
Also in the portfolio are wine
business.” business’s Facebook or
barrel smokers, wine racks,
Instagram page. Or you can
wine caddys, barnwood lights,
For years, Marc worked make custom orders online,
barrel stave lighting sconces
at mines up north as which will take about two to
and wine barrel serving trays.
a heavy equipment three weeks.
“People of all ages love and buy
operator and supervisor. the accessories, fire tables and
When COVID hit he was Marc has also hired another
furniture,” says Marc. “Many are
laid off and he took the carpenter to help keep up
also wine lovers, but not all of
opportunity to set up his with demand. “The business is
them are.” With the natural tie
own business creating far exceeding anything I first
to wine, LMB had a showcase
beautiful and functional envisioned,” says Marc. “I’d say
at Harper’s Trail Winery in
furniture and accessories we’re probably where I thought
Kamloops and saw sales and
from old oak wine we would be after five years in
custom orders soar.
barrels. “I’m passionate business. It’s amazing. I’m so
about this work and this happy my hobby turned into a
This spring and summer they
business,” says Marc. business. You know what they
will do many more winery
“And it shows in every say: If you love what you do,
piece I make. They are you’ll never work another day
all custom made and in your life.”
12 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 13THE FACE OF LANDSCAPING
Denali “We ensure that every project we
complete, we would be just as happy
Landscape
to have it as our own...”
and Design inc.
JORDAN MCKAY
property that were more than
50 years old,” explains Jordan.
L andscaping is in Jordan
McKay’s blood.
keen eye for aesthetics.”
For instance, Jordan
To provide this scope of work,
Denali’s services range from
The owner of Denali designed and completed the excavation, land clearing and
Landscaping & Design is a landscaping for many high-end paving stone driveways to
bright young entrepreneur homes at the master-planned patios, 3D landscape design,
who’s brought a thrilling golf resort, Tobiano. “Those plant design, selection and
new vision to landscaping in landscapes and projects really softscape installations. “We
Kamloops. His mom is a home have my heart,” says Jordan. ensure that every project we
and landscape designer. “This “They feature custom complete, we would be just as
is where I get my design eye driveways, sunken fire pits, happy to have it as our own,”
from,” says Jordan. “One of my putting greens, features built says Jordan. “We also offer a
brothers studied Horticulture into the side of the cliff, large warranty and check-in on jobs
and works in landscaping as retaining walls and beautiful regularly to ensure they are
well, specializing in custom unique planting plans. Year holding up well and everything
homes in the Lower Mainland. after year, we love watching is growing as it should.”
So, landscaping truly runs in these landscapes mature
our blood.” into what we envisioned. We Jordan’s future goals include
try to use paving stones and growing the business,
Jordan saw something missing materials that are new to the spending more time on design,
in the Kamloops landscape scene and not used by every continuing to refine the Denali
market. “A new set of eyes, a other landscaping company.” culture for employees and
younger vision on how to run a clients, while creating the best
company and a more modern While most of Jordan’s clients landscapes possible.
take on landscaping...that’s are new home owners and
exactly what we have brought builders, he loves the challenge
to the table,” says Jordan. of renovating an older
“When we are given budgets, landscape that is in need of a
we try to maximize them the new life. “We completed a really
best that we can so that every exciting project downtown
project is both unique and on Pine Street where we
stunning and I am proud to combined a mixture of new Jordan McKay
attach the Denali name to it. modern paving stones as well
CEO
I am very particular and have a as existing pavers from the
14 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 15THE FACE OF COUNSELLING
C&C Resources
for Life
TARA CAFFELLE, ANDREA CAMPBELL, JENNIFER DUSTIN, ADELE
HUCULAK, JOLENE LINDSEY, DR. JOYCE PEASGOOD, TENNILLE
PHIPPS, MARY WIDMER AND SARAH WIDMER
B y helping individuals and
families, C&C Resources
for Life enriches our whole
While grief-informed
counselling is a C&C specialty,
the nine counsellors who work
community and all of society, in the practice are trained in a
too. wide range of therapeutic skills
that can be helpful for people
“That’s our vision,” says suffering from trauma, anxiety,
Sarah Widmer, who is a grief depression and addictive
counsellor and co-owner, along behaviours. The services of
with founder, director, C&C are available to people as
counsellor (and mother!) Mary individual counselling, couples
Widmer, and Tennille Phipps, a and family counselling and support companies as has unique offerings for our community as well as other
mental health and addictions support group facilitation. they develop what she calls community. cultures represented in the
counsellor who specializes in “We are holistic in how we a “positive grief culture” in Kamloops area.
trauma and works extensively approach everything,” says workspaces. “As we’ve seen Adele offers a frequent group In addition, their services are
with professional athletes. Tennille. “Grief is often what with the impact of COVID-19, grief workshop to support often covered by extended
C&C is really a pioneer in brings people through our grief isn’t going anywhere, those grappling with loss; health insurance.
grief-informed counselling in doors, but we find that people from all the various beginnings Jolene created a powerful The counsellors at C&C
Kamloops. It’s counsellors are also need other types of and endings of our lives, so we group in response to all the consider themselves to be a big
able to help grieving clients support to heal and move need to find a way to engage turmoil her clients were family, operating in a way that
because they’re so well versed forward on their journey. We with it in a healthy way, and expressing during the early reflects onto how they treat
in grief, loss and the trauma aim to be a well-rounded empower others to do the months of the pandemic called their clients and community.
related to loss. Grief is an resource and a one-stop for same,” Tara says. ‘I am the One;’ and Andrea will They practice what they
uncomfortable subject which support for mental health.” launch her addiction support counsel by living healthy
many people, even professional Spiritual life coach Dr. Joyce group later in 2021. lives and getting outdoors
counsellors, avoid discussing. The team of counsellors at Peasgood provides end of life whenever possible, grateful for
Following a loss, people often C&C includes spiritual life support to clients and their Last, but certainly not least, all that Kamloops has to offer.
feel pressured to ‘move on’ coach Dr. Joyce Peasgood; loved ones by assisting them Jennifer, in addition to “Credentials aside, clients trust
quickly from it. registered social workers to plan celebrations of life and counselling, is an educator us to provide a safe place for
Jolene Lindsey and Jennifer funerals, even in these COVID and works extensively in them to work through
C&C’s approach is to be Dustin; and registered clinical times when families can’t the LGBTQI2S+ and Queer whatever issues bring them to
‘companions’ to those affected counsellors Adel Huculak and gather in big groups for such community. All of the C&C us,” sums up Sarah. “Our office
by grief and loss, support them Andrea Campbell. Tara Caffelle events. One modification she counsellors have taken cultural staff will be here to welcome
holistically, and help them to rounds out the team as a has introduced is guiding a competency training and have them and our counsellors
recognize that grief is a normal grief and relationship coach virtual family meeting in the a working understanding of will do our best to give
response to loss and it will be who is spearheading C&C’s wake of a loss that she calls intergenerational trauma. them a positive counselling
with them, in some form, for Grief@Work expansion into ‘Around the Table with Joyce.’ They count it a privilege experience.”
the rest of their lives. the business community to Indeed, every counsellor at C&C to serve the Indigenous
16 FACES OF K AMLOOPSTHE FACE OF LEATHER, VINYL
AND PLASTIC REPAIR
Fibrenew
Kamloops
PETER AND PATRICIA EISLER
C ustomer satisfaction is
what it’s all about for Peter
and Patricia Eisler. “We take
Rust Valley Restorers.
Fibrenew can even repair
scuffed up and damaged vinyl
great pride in solving problems bathtubs.
and helping people,” says
Peter, who owns and operates Fibrenew is mobile, so it
Fibrenew Kamloops with does most of its work at their
his wife, Patricia. “I’ve always customers’ homes and places
worked with my hands and I of business. “We’re big fans of
love applying that to the repair repair rather than replace,” says
and maintenance of leather, Peter. “We’re always working
vinyl and plastic. This includes at giving the best advice
furniture, automotive, marine, and service to customers
medical, vinyl siding and PVC and we also enjoy educating
window casings.” customers on how to look after
and maintain their leather and
Much of Fibrenew’s work vinyl so it looks good and lasts in Kamloops and that’s where repairs and maintenance,
in Kamloops is residential a long time.” Peter and I met.” while Patricia handles any
furniture, but it also does leather or vinyl sewing that
repairs and maintenance on Before purchasing the This homecoming has been a has to be done, along with
boats, cars, airplanes, trains, Fibrenew Kamloops franchise huge success, both personally administration for the business.
RVs, medical office’s, restaurant in 2015, Peter and Patricia and professionally. “It’s nice to They make for an incredible “We take great pride
interiors, vinyl siding on homes lived in Williams Lake and have a homebase and work team.
and PVC window casings. Peter ran a steel shop but also together,” says Patricia. “But, in solving problems
travelled for work as a steel it can have it’s challenges,” However, the plan is to expand and helping people.”
Some of their favourite jobs fabricator/millwright. “It was adds Patricia with a laugh. “For the team as the business grows
are repair and maintenance really a lifestyle move for us,” instance, Peter is a perfectionist with an employee or two.
on the interiors of the Rocky says Patricia. “Peter was born and that can be good and
Mountaineer trains as well as a and raised in Kamloops, and frustrating at the same time.”
small part in a History Channel while I’m originally from Prince
TV series based in Tappen, BC, George, I went to high school Peter tends to do most of the
18 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 19THE FACE OF VISION CARE
“...I have always had a special interest in vision therapy. In fact, I’m the only
one practicing this niche area of eye care in Kamloops.”
Kamloops Vision
Therapy Optometry
DR. TAMSYN SITLER
Dr. Tamsyn Sitler is not your discomfort when reading or a Fellowship in the discipline.
average optometrist (eye using the computer, to those The reward of being able to
doctor). “Of course, I am an with strabismus and amblyopia help people who are struggling
optometrist first and foremost,” (turned and “lazy” eyes), because of their vision is worth
says Dr. Sitler of Kamloops and patients with sensory all the hard work.
Vision Therapy Optometry. processing disorders, including
“But I have always had a special autism. I also do a lot of work Dr. Sitler did not wear glasses
interest in vision therapy. In with people post-concussion growing up in Kitchener-
fact, I’m the only one practicing and post-brain injury.” Waterloo, Ontario. But her
this niche area of eye care in sister did, and it was her sister
Kamloops.” It all has to do with who first suggested being
neuroplasticity. The brain is an eye doctor. Dr. Sitler had
Vision therapy goes beyond malleable, and with practice, already decided in high school
seeing 20/20 to teach the a person can learn how to she wanted to pursue a career
brain how to better use the improve how the eyes function in health care, so attending the
eyes together and process together. “For example, we School of Optometry at the
visual information to help often struggle with our vision University of Waterloo was a
improve a person’s function in the modern world because natural fit.
and performance in life. humans are not designed to
“Prescribing glasses or contact stare at something up close, It was there that she met who
lenses to see clearly is a part (like screens), for long periods would become her husband,
of that,” explains Dr. Sitler. of time. Learning how to better Tyler Lowey, now also an
“But, we also provide in-office locate near targets and how optometrist in Kamloops. She
vision therapy sessions, with to move the eyes together chuckles about having two
techniques and activities to can greatly reduce symptoms optometrists in the family
help improve how a person many people experience while and is grateful for all his
uses their vision. working on the computer or support over the years. After
reading,” she says. graduating in 2011, the stars
Every program is customized aligned for them both to move
to each patient’s specific Being able to provide vision to Kamloops and start their
visual condition. We work therapy has required years of careers and lives together.
with a wide range of people, extra course work and learning,
from those who struggle with and she is currently working on
FACES OF K AMLOOPS 21“People often come
Bulman Designs
to me with an
exterior photo of a Every building lot
home they like or tends to be different
simply an idea of and custom home
SEAN BULMAN what their dream design is paramount
home should look to achieving the
and feel like and we look and feel for the
S ean Bulman has an
awesome job. He designs
the homes of people’s dreams.
individual clients and home
builders right now is a take on
a Prairie Modern style, which
Sean’s home design services
typically run $3,000 to $6,000,
which represents about 0.5%
mould that concept
into reality”
perfect home.
“People often come to me with is a good mix of contemporary of a home worth $600,000
an exterior photo of a home elements with traditional to $1.2 million. Such a small
they like or simply an idea craftsman style,” says Sean. percentage is money well
of what their dream home “It’s a cost-effect design for spent to get a customized plan
should look and feel like and building and it looks right in for your dream home.
we mould that concept into Kamloops.”
reality,” says the owner of the Sean is originally from Ontario,
eponymous Bulman Designs. Sean’s designs for home but was drawn to Kamloops
“I’m pretty good at reading interiors reflect the for the architecture and
people’s intentions and usually homeowner’s desire for engineering and building
the first concept we come open floor plans and flow for science programs at
up with is 90% of the way easy and elegant living. That Thompson Rivers University.
there. But there is always an generally means high ceilings, Since setting up Bulman
opportunity to make changes no walls throughout the main Designs five years ago, he’s
throughout every stage of the living areas of the home and a designed over 60 dream
design and build, from the front entry that affords a view homes for people, including
concept stage to when the through the main floor to the three for himself and his wife.
contractor or builder prices outdoor vistas. The latest is a four-bedroom
and starts to build the home. Prairie Modern beauty at
Having the ability to model the And speaking of outside, Tobiano golf resort that Sean
home in 3D is a great asset in Sean’s designs always feature and his wife will move into in
helping clients visualize the incredible indoor-outdoor April.
features of their dream home flow with glass doors and
as well.” oversized patios and decks.
The master bedroom, be it on
Kamloops is set in stunning the main floor or the second
topography of valley, slopes, floor, is usually designed to be
mountains and two rivers a master wing or oasis apart
intersecting. As such, every from the kids’ and guests’
building lot tends to be bedrooms.
different and custom home
design is paramount to Sean also designs practicality
achieving the look and feel into every home. Bathrooms are
for the perfect home to nestle
onto that lot. “A lot of the
custom designs I do for both
hidden from living areas, ample
storage space and the layouts
are smart and mechanical.
THE FACE OF HOME DESIGN
22 FACES OF K AMLOOPSIn addition to their construction
careers, both Byron and Cameron are
active members of the Rocky Mountain
Rangers reserves in Kamloops.
In addition to their manager, I have developed
construction careers, both a strong knowledge of the
Byron and Cameron are building process and made
active members of the Rocky connections throughout the
Mountain Rangers reserves in community.”
Kamloops.
Although their own company
Sergeant Byron Jones is relatively new, the brothers
joined the Army in 2000 have been staying busy with a
and has served overseas on variety of projects from home
a peacekeeping mission in and business renovations to
Bosnia. Corporal Cameron a custom-built home, from
Jones joined in 2013. When foundation to framing, in
designing the logo for Jones Tobiano. “We’re definitely
Brothers Construction, the client-driven,” says Cameron.
siblings honour their military “It’s all about helping the
background by including clients achieve their vision.”
Jones Brothers
the three chevron badges of
B yron and Cameron Jones
are the owners of BGJ
Construction Ltd., operating as
private, corporal and sergeant. So far, the brothers are growing
their business via the word of
mouth of satisfied customers,
Cameron, who started in
Construction
Jones Brothers Construction, the industry a couple years family and friends. “Our
a family-owned business after Byron, began his calendar is filling up and we’re
that does residential and apprenticeship working booking ahead now, some
commercial foundations and alongside Byron, and they have jobs as far away out as this
framing, renovations and enjoyed working as a team. summer,” says Byron.
project management. When their previous employer
BYRON AND CAMERON JONES shut down at the beginning of Jones Brothers construction is
Born and raised in the the COVID pandemic, they on Facebook (Jones Brothers
Kamloops area, Byron and decided to pull the trigger and Construction) and Instagram
Cameron attended Thompson
“It’s all about
start their own construction (@jonesbrothers.construction).
Rivers University, completing company “It was a matter Follow them to see what they helping the clients
THE FACE OF CONSTRUCTION the carpentry program
and receiving their red seal
of just diving in,” says Byron.
“Having worked in the
are working on or get in touch
for any project you may have
achieve their vision.”
certification, Byron in 2011 and industry for several years, first coming up.
Cameron in 2017. as apprentice carpenter and
working my way up to a project
24 FACES OF K AMLOOPSTHE FACE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
Thompson Valley
Naturopathic Clinic
DR. FAREN BROGAN, ND
D r. Faren Brogan, ND has a
big tool kit as a naturopathic
physician. “It’s not just the
Faren sees the public’s interest
in naturopathic medicine on the
rise. “In Kamloops, where it’s hard
herbs and supplements that to get a family doctor, people are
most people associate with seeing me primarily,” says Faren.
naturopathic medicine,” says “Most times, MSP will cover a
Faren. “But it’s also acupuncture, portion of a regular visit and
IV therapy, diet, exercise, private insurance can pay the
sleep and lifestyle plans and rest.”
prescription pharmaceuticals, if
needed. Basically, it’s everything Faren offers free 15-minute
that’s been proven to either consultations to introduce
work historically, or supported by people to what she does and
evidence-based research, with how she can help. She’s also
a focus in nature and natural developing quite the pediatrics
substances.” practice to help kids with all
conditions, including food
As such, everything Faren does sensitivities and digestive issues.
for patients is customized, Stress has a big impact on our
be it preventative, to treat health, especially the stress of job
symptoms short-term or treat loss and this pandemic. Often Her dream of where she
chronic conditions long-term. stress can be supported with wanted to practice always had
The majority of Faren’s patients herbs and supplements, while mountains in the background, so
are perimenopausal women Faren works to develop better she found her way to Kamloops
“...everything Faren in their 40s and 50s who are stress management through to join Dr. Alison Beach at
does for patients is experiencing hot flashes, mood diet, exercise, and mindfulness, Thompson Valley Naturopathic
changes, trouble sleeping and which leads to better sleep, Clinic as an associate.
customized, be it brain fog as their hormones fewer health problems and more
preventative, to treat change. “These are often women balanced hormones. Alison has proved to be an
who are burning the candle incredible mentor for Faren as
symptoms short- at both ends, busy with work Acupuncture can provide she’s expanded her practice.
term or treat chronic and families,” says Faren. “We localized muscle pain relief, Faren also walks the walk and
conditions long-term.” can help them with herbs and as well as help with digestion talks the talk when it comes to
supplements, but also diet and and hormone issues. Faren’s the naturopathic lifestyle.
exercise plans that can help nine years of post-secondary She takes herbs and
them with all symptoms. If education culminated with supplements as prevention, has
needed, we can also prescribe graduation from the Canadian a healthy family life, gets eight
bioidentical hormone therapy. College of Naturopathic or nine hours of sleep a night,
It’s a pharmaceutical, but Medicine in Toronto in 2017. hikes and cross-country skis for
it’s composed of natural exercise and does lots of reading
substances.” for enjoyment to relax.
26 FACES OF K AMLOOPS“Those tragic times
Martin & Martin and uplifting stories
have brought me to
where I am today.
Lawyers First and foremost,
I know law is a tool
that helps people
and the community.”
LESRA MARTIN
L esra Martin laughs heartily
when you ask what inspired
him to become a lawyer.
documentary ‘The Journey of
Lesra Martin’.
her,” says Lesra. “We’re a true
partnership and team and the
basis of this family firm. Our
“There’s not a straightforward, Lesra also appeared on the goal is always to achieve the
or short, answer to that,” he Oprah Winfrey Show and Larry best for our clients.”
says. King Live to talk about it.
So how does Lesra go from Lesra’s specialty is complex
In fact, the answer includes the there to one-half of Martin & personal injury law,
ghetto in New York City where Martin Lawyers in Kamloops? championing for those with
Lesra was born and raised, Well, his foray into the law with brain injuries, chronic pain and
it continues to his Toronto The Hurricane led him to study long-term disability. Cheryl’s
foster family who helped him at the University of Toronto and focus is wills, probate and real
go from illiteracy at age 15, to then Dalhousie University in estate law.
graduating from high school Halifax, where he graduated
two years later with honours. from law school in 1997. The firm also has three other
While learing to read, Lesra lawyers, Danielle Oliver, who
came across the autobiography, Articling followed with famed practices in the area of wills and
‘The 16th Round, of Rubin criminal defense lawyer estate planning, James Mason,
‘Hurricane’ Carter’, a black Richard Peck in Vancouver. A personal injury law, wills and
boxer who was wrongfully job at the Crown prosecutors estate planning and real estate,
convicted in a triple murder office in Kamloops followed and newest associate Jasmine
in 1966. Lesra visited The in 1998 and then opening his Russett, wills and real estate.
Hurricane in jail in 1980 and own firm, Martin & Martin, in
vowed to help free him. downtown Kamloops, with his Martin & Martin is also opening
lawyer wife, Cheryl, in 2007. “I’ve a satellite office in Juniper, the
In 1985, The Hurricane was had a fascinating journey,” says Kamloops neighbourhood
released from prison after Lesra. “Those tragic times and where the Martin family owns
serving 19 years. Carter’s uplifting stories have brought Juniper Market. “I’ve come full
freedom, and Lesra’s role in me to where I am today. First circle,” says Lesra. “My salvation
it, are documented in the and foremost, I know law is a started in a grocery store
1991 book ‘Lazarus and The tool that helps people and the packing groceries at age 12 so I
Hurricane: The Freeing of community. I’ve never lost could earn money to help feed
Rubin ‘Hurricane’ Carter’, the that focus.” my family.”
1999 movie ‘The Hurricane’
starring Denzel Washington
as Carter and Vicellous
Lesra and Cheryl met at
Dalhousie and married shortly THE FACE OF LAW
Reon Shannon as Lesra and after graduation. “I wouldn’t
the National Film Board be where I am today without
FACES OF K AMLOOPS 29River City Nissan Jonny Walker
SALES CONSULTANT
JONNY WALKER
J onny Walker is not your
stereotypical car salesman.
First of all, he spells his first
“The award does take into
consideration the number of
new cars you sell, but most of it
Their daughter enjoyed
school in Kamloops and was
competitive in trampoline.
name differently than the is based on customer service,” She’s now 20 and studying at
Johnnie Walker of Scotch says Jonny. “I get to know my Thompson Rivers University.
whisky fame. customers as people and help “Our move to Kamloops was
them find the vehicle they the best ever,” says Jonny.
Second, he’s not content with need and want. If you want to Jonny’s excited about Nissan’s
simply selling you a car. “I come come to the dealership and 2021 line up, which includes
at this profession from a totally have a look great, if you want updates for the bestselling
different angle,” says Jonny in me to bring the car to your Rogue SUV, the Pathfinder and
this English accent. “I spent 20 house to show you, that’s great Frontier SUVs, Versa sedan and
years in the corporate world too.” an all-new electric SUV by the
as an information technology end of the year.
consultant with British At purchase time, Jonny does
Telecom. If you would have told not hand you the keys and
me then that one day I’d be say good-bye for the four
a car salesman in Kamloops, years it takes for you to come
Canada, I’d have said ‘hell, no’,” back to buy another car.
Yet, here Jonny is, selling cars There’s constant follow up.
and loving it at River City He’s available 24/7 to answer
Nissan in Kamloops. “I treat questions, especially about the
my customers the way I would ample technology that’s part of
want to be treated,” says Jonny. every new car now. “I always go
“It’s all about finding the right the extra mile,” says Jonny.
vehicle for them. I love the “After all car buying should be
people side of the business, a fun, exciting and pleasurable “I treat my customers
building a relationship and experience.” the way I would want
sharing in their excitement of
buying a new car.” Jonny, his wife and their to be treated. It’s all
daughter wanted to get away about finding the right
Such enthusiasm and skill from their hectic lifestyle in
has resulted in a Nissan Club England 12 years ago. vehicle for them. I love
Excellence Gold Award for His wife first found a job as a the people side of the
Jonny every year he’s worked nurse in Kamloops and Jonny
at River City Nissan, 2016, 2017, and their daughter followed.
business, building a
2018 and 2019. Jonny first tried real estate relationship and sharing
sales, which wasn’t a good
The 2020 winners haven’t been fit, and then found River City
in their excitement of
announced yet, but Jonny’s
definitely in the running.
Nissan. buying a new car” THE FACE OF AUTOMOTIVE
30 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 31Arksey Rota Real
Estate Group
ERIN ARKSEY AND BLAIR ROTA
Realtors Erin Arksey and
Blair Rota are ‘client success
obsessed.’
“We believe exceptional It was so nice to find a partner
customer service and having who understands what it is like
leading edge technology
systems in place allows us to
to be a real estate agent. And
having aligned goals creates a
THE FACE OF REAL ESTATE
position our clients not only on solid business and life together.
a pedestal in the eyes of the We aren’t typically in the office
market, but it also allows us to from 9-5 like most careers, but
execute our proven, repeatable even when we do - we have a
marketing and negotiation blast. We’re really thankful we
skills,” says Blair. “A rising tide have each other.”
lifts all boats.”
grandfather always said there
Erin laddered into real estate are no two days the same in
Erin and Blair joined EXP Realty working as a financial advisor
in Kamloops two years ago. real estate and that is exactly
at a credit union where she what I was looking for.”
“And boy, are we glad we did,” loved helping people secure
says Erin. “It’s a game changer mortgages. “Real estate
being a part of a company that “I wouldn’t necessarily say we
seemed like the next step for have a typical client,” says Erin.
wants to help you succeed me,” she says. “I wanted to own
by building you up stronger “Everyone’s needs and wants
my own business with more are different in this market of
financially and providing financial freedom and control
endless educational resources. first-time buyers, investors,
of my own hours. I love being home owners who are upsizing
There is a reason why we are out in the city and building
globally the fastest growing or downsizing, maybe looking
relationships.” to purchase a vacation
brokerage.”
property or perhaps the luxury
Blair is following in the buyers or sellers. In each of
“It’s a game changer being
Erin and Blair aren’t just footsteps of his grandfather,
business partners, they are those categories, the age a part of a company that
who owned and operated demographic really ranges.”
engaged to be married and are a successful real estate wants to help you succeed
the proud parents of their new
baby daughter, Charlee Jane.
brokerage in Kamloops. “I Erin and Blair are excited to by building you up stronger
knew I always wanted to work
“It is actually the best working with people in the community
grow as desirable and beautiful financially with endless
with my fiance,” says Erin. “Blair Kamloops grows, helping clients
and I met through real estate.
I grew up in,” says Blair. “I buy and sell affordable housing, educational resources...”
realized I had a passion for new and pre-owned homes,
real estate and people. My townhomes and condominiums
and luxury properties.
32 FACES OF K AMLOOPS FACES OF K AMLOOPS 33NowMedia Group
of NowMedia platforms like
KamloopsNow to share the
stories to a vast audience, while
still enabling the personal
experience of curling up on
the couch with the physical
magazine.” Nikki Csek
is respectful, responsive and CEO
caring. “We understand that We believe in the power of
THE FACE OF STORYTELLING with the voice we have earned, networking and guidance from
global thought leaders, which
we must be respectful of
people and our community,” is why we are in the business
says group COO Jim Csek. of bringing people together.
“The Level Up Events series
has brought to Kelowna some
“Everyone has a story
S torytelling goes back to the story to life. “We started on of the best speakers in the
dawn of time. In fact, some this road as storytellers over and it needs to be shared world, telling global stories and
of the greatest stories are still 20 years ago and we are very inspiring local success,” says
immortalized on cave walls or excited to see what the future with a vision of a better Level Up Event director Alexa
on the stones of pyramids. holds and for the stories we tomorrow.” Anderson. From webinars and
get to tell,” says NowMedia podcasts to promotional and
Modern technology allows Group CEO Nikki Csek. “Each The d6 Print Studio is such appreciation events, we can
us to tell stories in so many one can be bigger and more a natural extension of the brand, market, organize and
different ways and now more connecting than the last.” offerings of NowMedia Group. execute your next event.
than ever, your story matters. Signage is still one of the most
Your story is what connects The digital agency Csek important needs for a business. We have also made a huge
customers to your brand. Creative is where we build Our investment in the best investment in our most
People make buying decisions the foundation of brand technology makes for amazing recent business unit, IVA
with brands that understand stories, starting with planning, quality that is less expensive Productions. The power of
their customers and involve determining marketing goals and more environmentally Imagery, Videography and
them in their story. and objectives, developing friendly. Audio enables your story to be
campaigns, and execution captured and told in a way that
We have developed a strategies. “Strategy before “It provides a tremendous conveys emotion in the hands
360-degree approach of telling tactics is what I try to stress competitive advantage for the of your audience. “Reaching
stories, which allows us to with clients,” says Csek Creative brands we work with,” says d6 the right people at the right
bring in different perspectives, vice-president of business Print Studio manager Brandon time, whether streaming
devices and mediums to tell development Rob Cupello. McKay. “I love that we can podcasts in their car, scrolling
your story in the richest, most “We must have a plan that be creative and deliver high social media on their mobile
meaningful way possible. addresses clear goals and quality solutions for our clients device or watching videos
Whether we are telling a story objectives if we are to succeed that wow them time and time online, has never been easier,
through the lens of a journalist in the market.” again.” but it takes rich content to
or a marketer, we understand captivate and connect them
stories matter and demand We started on this journey So much magic remains in the with your story,” says Ellen
great care in the way they are as WelcometoKelowna.com printed word, which is why we Schwenkedel.
told. two decades ago because we took a fresh perspective on it
believed every community with the launch of 16 Flights Each of our six divisions and
NowMedia Group is comprised needed a media platform Publications. “The magazine the team members within
of six distinct business units, to support its people. publishing division utilizes have unique strengths, but at
each of which are leaders in KamloopsNow.com evolved the technology of the d6 Print the end of the day, we are all
their respective fields. When from that and has become a Studio to print high quality storytellers and we all love what
leveraged in unison, our six leading voice in a very crowded niche magazines,” says Steve we do.
units provide an exponential media market. KamloopsNow MacNaull, editor for several
competitive advantage to your has a unique, non-traditional of the publications. “Also, we Your story is our business!
company by bringing your way of storytelling, one that utilize the strength of voice
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