Indigenous people in British Columbia are exposed to widespread racism that often results in negative experiences at the point of care, inequitable medical treatment, physical harm and even death, the independent review into Indigenous-specific discrimination in the province’s health-care system has found.

Informed by the voices of nearly 9,000 Indigenous patients, family members, third-party witnesses and health-care workers, as well as unprecedented analysis of health data, the review found clear evidence of pervasive interpersonal and systemic racism that adversely affects not only patient and family experiences but also long-term health outcomes for Indigenous peoples.

The report, In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in B.C. Health Care, concludes that this problem is widely acknowledged by many who work in the system, including those in leadership positions. The report makes 24 recommendations to address what is a systemic problem, deeply rooted in colonialism.

“Indigenous people and health-care workers have spoken clearly – racism is an ugly and undeniable problem in B.C. health care that must be urgently addressed,” said Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, independent reviewer. “This report provides a blueprint for fundamental changes to beliefs, behaviours and systems that are necessary in order for us to root out racism and discrimination and ensure that the basic human rights of Indigenous people to respect, dignity and equitable health care are upheld.”

The Addressing Racism Review was launched in June 2020 by Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, after allegations were made about an organized “Price is Right” game involving guessing Indigenous patients’ blood alcohol levels in B.C. hospital emergency rooms. A detailed examination of those allegations found no evidence of an organized game occurring as originally depicted. The review found anecdotal and episodic evidence of multiple activities that resemble these allegations in some fashion, but none of them could be described as organized, widespread or targeting only Indigenous patients.

“Nevertheless, our review found clear evidence of a much more widespread and insidious problem – a lack of cultural safety and hundreds of examples of prejudice and racism throughout the entire B.C. health-care system,” Turpel-Lafond said. “That doesn’t mean every Indigenous person who gets health care will experience direct or indirect racism, but it does mean that any Indigenous person could experience it.

“Many of the accounts we heard were deeply disturbing, had clearly caused significant harm, and created lasting mistrust and fear of the health-care system. I thank Indigenous people and health-care workers across B.C. for having the courage to share their stories and to help us to shine a light on this important issue.”

New cases in last three days 2364  with 46 new dead

Total dead 441

80 percent of the latest deaths at LTC facilities

316 people in BC hospital’s with Covid

75 in ICU

212 new cases in Interior Health

New case totals break out

750 Friday

731 Saturday

596 Sunday

277  adjust figure just discovered

***

UPDATE on IH numbers:

· IH is reporting 212 new cases since Friday, for a total of 1,750.

· 490 cases are active and on isolation.

· 15 people are in hospital. 5 in ICU.

· 3 deaths in IH since the start of the pandemic (no change)

In the Northern Hemisphere the day of the winter solstice is the shortest day of the year (the day with the least daylight and the longest night) and occurs every year between December 20 and December 23.

Well every day is about the same time in minutes but the shortest day has least number of hours in the sun.

Why is it important? Once the Winter Solstice is over – each day becomes longer until summer is here.

Important date the Solstice – time to plan the garden for yet another spring.

13:07 pm

Highway 97 – river rd and island rd junction

Small car enters Hwy, clips truck passing north bound

Fire, police and ambulance on scene

HAPPY DAYS

A couple of nights ago I was watching an old movie, really sappy and old fashioned, everyone singing and dancing and really making the most out of life.

This got me to reminiscing about my teen years, when I was a real romantic at heart and thought the world was just made for me to enjoy. When I was seventeen, I met my future husband, of course then I didn’t know he would become the love of my life.

At that time, in the early sixties, the fashion for girls was the big crinoline underskirts, made up of many layers of stiff netting in a variety of colours. I would often wear two or three of these skirts under my dress so I looked like a big powder puff. As most other girls wore the same style, it looked great to me, very feminine and romantic.

The usual “date” for Sunday afternoons was a walk in the country, then back to a relative’s home for Sunday dinner. No car in those early days, so it was usually a bus ride to get out of town and into the countryside, where the usual walk would take place. No teenage girl would wear the fancy outfit with flat shoes so, despite the fact that a long walk was involved, four inch heels were the order of the day.

It was a beautiful Easter Sunday, early April, but warm and really pleasant when we set off on our outing, two sweethearts, hand in hand walking down the lane. Of course after the first couple of miles my feet were hurting and we sat for a while. When we continued, Dave suggested we cut through a field to make a short cut back to the bus route. This seemed like a good idea so off we set.

High heeled shoes and farmer’s fields are not the best combination so Dave helpfully suggested I take off the shoes, which I did. I also had to peel off the stockings to save them from ruin.

Barefoot made the progress easier but the stubbly grass was hard on the feet, so Dave suggested I step on the big flat stones that were scattered around the field. This worked really well as there were quite a few of them and I could avoid much of the sharp grass. Hand in hand, he helped me jump from stone to stone and all was going well until I landed, both feet together, on one stone that happened to be a huge cow pie.

Breaking through the crusty top, I landed in the middle of the mess with both legs getting splattered with the nasty green slime below. I was horrified and not in the least happy when Dave broke into hysterical laughter. Romantic notions went right out the window and thoughts of murder took their place.

Luckily, there was a bit of a stream not too far off and there I stood, in the cold water with my hero sluicing the muck from my legs. The splatters had also decorated much of my net underskirts and this could not be dealt with in the stream.

It was a certainly different attitude that we both had on the bus ride home. I was still seething and tearful at my predicament, him still sniggering and trying not to be too open about his mirth, did nothing for my sense of humour and dignity. However, the kissing and cuddling that usually took place at our goodbye, was replaced by a door slammed in his face, so I think I got my point across.

In latter years, the retelling of this tale was amusing, however. I still prickle when I think how unconcerned my hero was about the episode. This lack of romance was to be repeated many times over our married years, which I came to realise was not his fault, he just lacked a romantic soul. However, we were happy for many years I just got used to romance, in our case, being a dream and to be enjoyed in movies. A bit sad, but just a reality of life, romance works better on the big screen.

Engine Trouble?

The symbol of an engine appeared on the dashboard of our car indicating a problem existed. However, the car was running smoothly. What could be the trouble? Not willing to risk encountering a breakdown, I took it to the car repair shop. A diagnostic test was performed and the result was that the gas tank cap was not properly secured. Apparently when fumes escape the pressure in the tank is affected and the warning light comes on. That is an important feature, but I could have spared myself the $58 bill if I had only replaced the cap properly. Should such a warning light come on in your car, check the gas tank cap first.
Reflecting on what happened caused me to realize that life is full of warning messages and advice. I turn on the TV news and receive guidelines and restrictions about COVID-19. My income tax returns stipulate what I can or cannot claim. An election process has rules. I come home and soon learn about another thing I’ve done wrong. I get back into my car and get signals about the seatbelt, bells and whistles about the handbrake still on, and the navigation system tells me where to go. I am constantly being told what to do. While at times this irritates me, I have to acknowledge it is usually for my good.
Then I set aside time to read the Scriptures and pray. More advice! Good advice. I’d better be thankful. That’s my advice.

Henry Wiebe

credit: Google Earth

At 2304 hrs on Nov 26 the Oliver RCMP responded to a single vehicle rollover collision on Hwy 97 near Secrest Hill Rd.  The driver and sole occupant sustained minor injuries.  Alcohol was determined to be a factor and the driver was issued a 90 day immediate roadside prohibition.

The vehicle was impounded for 30 days.  While the investigation was being conducted, and the collision scene was cleared, a section of Hwy 97 was closed and traffic was diverted via a short detour.

Time: 11:07 pm

On Scene, RCMP, EMS and Oliver Fire department

White truck roll-over reported on north lane of Hwy 97 just south of River Rd intersection.

One person with minor injuries escaped and treated by EMS

OFD assisted with traffic control for about an hour.

Traffic diverted at Park Rill Rd and River Rd on Highway 97 North of Oliver

Flood Resilience Projects

As an outcome of the OBWB’s discussions at the November board meeting, I have now secured a contract with the B.C. Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, titled: Gap Analysis and Recommendations of studies needed to update the Okanagan Lake Regulation System and its Operating Plan. This is the first step in the process to lay the groundwork for a review and potential revision to how the lake is managed. The province is funding the gap analysis, and the OBWB will manage the contract. The report is expected to be competed in March 2021, and it will lay out a plan of study on what is needed for the review.

It’s likely that a number of technical studies, risk assessments, and modeling will be needed. This
should help assess how lake operation changes will affect flood and drought risk, their respective
economic impacts, as well as potential impacts to fisheries if changes are made or conversely, if the
existing guidelines remain in place. We anticipate that there will need to be extensive collaboration
with Okanagan Nation, and consultation with different sectors.

As discussed last month, we will be working with the Okanagan local governments to raise the
awareness of this issue within the provincial government, and the need for ongoing funding to do the
work. The task of reviewing the lake operations and making changes is a provincial responsibility, but
there is much that the OBWB and our local partners can do to assist. I will be presenting again to the
RDCO board on December 7th, and collecting letters of support from local governments throughout the
valley.

Source: Report of Anna Warwick Sears OBWB CAO
Okanagan Basin Water Board

Throughout the winter/spring ODN presents the latest info on weather, snow conditions and most important the amount of water in storage for our huge water resevoir – the Okanagan Lake/River/Creek system.

Premier John Horgan has announced a new cabinet that will focus on keeping people healthy and safe through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic has turned the lives of British Columbians upside down,” Premier Horgan said. “We have come a long way together, but we have much further to go. This skilled, diverse team is ready to continue our fight against COVID-19 and build an economic recovery that includes everyone.”

The new cabinet members are tasked with continuing government’s cross-ministry response to the pandemic, providing better health care for people and families, delivering affordability and security in B.C.’s communities, and investing in good jobs and livelihoods in a clean-energy future.

“I know this is a hard time for British Columbians. COVID-19 has brought challenges unlike any we’ve faced before,” Premier Horgan said. “By putting people first, investing in hospitals and diagnostics, supporting front-line workers and by everyone doing their part to fight this virus, we will make it through, together.”

The new cabinet includes 20 ministers and four ministers of state. Gender representation remains balanced. The cabinet will be supported in its work by 13 parliamentary secretaries, with portfolios including Rural Development, Anti-Racism, and Technology and Innovation.

The cabinet and parliamentary secretaries are as follows:

Premier: John Horgan
Parliamentary Secretary – Rural Development: Roly Russell

Attorney General (and Minister Responsible For Housing): David Eby

Parliamentary Secretary – Anti-Racism Initiatives: Rachna Singh
Advanced Education, Skills and Training: Anne Kang

Parliamentary Secretary – Skills Training: Andrew Mercier
Agriculture, Food and Fisheries: Lana Popham

Parliamentary Secretary – Fisheries and Aquaculture: Fin Donnelly
Citizens’ Services: Lisa Beare

Children and Family Development: Mitzi Dean

Minister of State for Child Care: Katrina Chen
Education: Jennifer Whiteside

Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation (and Minister Responsible for the Consular Corps of British Columbia): Bruce Ralston

Environment and Climate Change Strategy (and Minister Responsible for Translink): George Heyman

Parliamentary Secretary – Environment: Kelly Greene
Finance: Selina Robinson

Parliamentary Secretary – Gender Equity: Grace Lore
Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development: Katrine Conroy

Minister of State for Lands, Natural Resource Operations: Nathan Cullen

Health (and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs): Adrian Dix

Parliamentary Secretary – Seniors Services and Long Term Care: Mable Elmore
Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation: Murray Rankin

Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation: Ravi Kahlon

Minister of State for Trade: George Chow
Parliamentary Secretary – Technology and Innovation: Brenda Bailey
Labour: Harry Bains

Parliamentary Secretary – New Economy: Adam Walker
Mental Health and Addictions: Sheila Malcolmson

Municipal Affairs: Josie Osborne

Public Safety and Solicitor General: Mike Farnworth

Parliamentary Secretary – Emergency Preparedness: Jennifer Rice
Social Development and Poverty Reduction: Nicholas Simons

Parliamentary Secretary – Community Development and Non-Profits: Niki Sharma
Parliamentary Secretary – Accessibility: Dan Coulter
Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport: Melanie Mark

Parliamentary Secretary – Arts and Film: Bob D’Eith
Transportation and Infrastructure: Rob Fleming

Minister of State for Infrastructure: Bowinn Ma

Waste composition study conducted at Campbell Mountain Landfill

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is conducting a waste composition study at Campbell Mountain Landfill this week. Working with the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO), the RDOS hired Tetra Tech to conduct the study. Sorters will be sampling residential and commercial waste collected across the region. The sampling will help staff understand the type of waste coming to landfills.

The RDOS, member municipalities and various provincial groups provide recycling programs and the sampling will provide insights into how successful these programs are. Compost sites for food waste are also being considered. “Landfills, compost sites and curbside collection programs cost millions of dollars,” says
RDOS Chair Karla Kozakevich. “Learning which materials can be diverted will help the RDOS design and better manage the landfill and future compost sites.”

The RDCO is conducting a matching study at the Glenmore Landfill in Kelowna. The results will be compared to prior studies done at the landfill to look for potential changes in waste generation due to COVID-19.

The results will also be compared to waste composition studies that have been conducted across BC. A second waste composition study will be conducted this spring to look for seasonal differences. The final report will be finalized June 2021.

Hear the whisper of the rain drops
Blowing soft against the window

And make believe you love me
One more time
For the good times

I’ll get along
You’ll find another
And I’ll be here

Kris Kristofferson

sung by the great Ray Price

Such as it is, the Holiday Season is about to begin. Their are a series of different approaches to it and in the last few years no real start time. There are the revelers who look forward to the season, decorating their homes and flooding facebook with their joy.

Then there are mild cases of BA Humbug. The holiday rule Nazis some call them. They patrol to ensure Nativity Scenes are on private property only. Those who want to determine what is acceptable and what is not. Some crusade against outdoor decorations before Remembrance Day.

With the advent of social media there is the push to say Merry Christmas instead of Happy Holidays and insinuate there is an effort to persecute those who say Merry Christmas. There is some mysterious dark force behind the promotion of Happy Holidays they hint, and end with “I say Merry Christmas and you should too.” this is going to enlighten some confuse others and put a wet blanket on those who hint at some conspiracy or dark force and as some characterize it We are to use Happy Holidays so we don’t offend immigrants of one sect or another.

So, where and when did the Merry Christmas—Happy Holiday controversy begin? It will surprise many. During the 1500’s the old English word morphed into the word Christmas and from there Merry Christmas became the traditional greeting. But there is more to this than meets the eye. Before rendering the best saved for last, lets explore how we got into the war of words.

As with everything else our society has become polarized, our social views, our politics and even our economics. The more conservative voices tend to be more faith based and cling to tradition, where as those in the makeup of more broader based liberal view tend to say Happy Holidays. This overview was part of a survey from 2016 conducted by the Public Religion Research Institute. Even in the polarized world we have there is no evidence of a sinister plot by anyone.

So what is the history behind the two greetings that are to bring greetings of hope and joy that become the words of angst. Here is the first curve ball. Remember I mentioned the greeting Merry Christmas was adapted from an old English word? That word was Cristes Maesse. Or as we would say, The Mass of Christ. These terms go back in Old English to the year 1038. So, Merry Christmas is the official greeting right? Well not so fast there is more. Ready for a head spinner?

The word Holiday arrived in the 1500’s and it came from the Old English word “hailiday”which came from the word “haligdaed” and that word meant Holy Day.

But wait for both sides being right and wrong there is more. In more recent times there is a more modern history of how we came to be yelling rejected greetings as polarized insults.

So how and why did Happy Holidays become popular? Look back down the road of history to 1863 when the words were prominently displayed in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

In the twentieth century Happy Holidays were connected to gift giving of tobacco products by RJ Reynolds to promote Winston Salem Tobacco products as presents. Happy Holidays morphed into “Seasons Greeting” in the 1940’s primarily promoting Camel cigarettes.

By the late forties seasons greetings, happy holidays and Merry Christmas came with Coca-Cola Santa Clause, elves, Christmas Trees and all the glitz and glitter we can stuff into a few weeks.

So Merry Christmas stands for the Holy Greeting of the season. Happy Holidays comes from Holy Days and in some traditions it is the meaning of Advent and ends with the Epiphany.

So before we get our ugly Christmas Sweater in a knot, you are all right even if you don’t know you’re right. So while you contemplate this information I am going to open my Christmas Holiday fashion box with everything from my Santa Hat my Grinch T Shirt, Elf Slippers and my prized Merry Christmas From Folsom Prison pullover sweater and get in the spirit of whatever greeting you address me with.

Fred Steele

From Vancouver Sun

Stephanie Higginson, president of the B.C. School Trustees Association, doesn’t see any benefit to changing the length of the winter break to keep kids out of schools, whether that involves remote learning or simply a longer vacation.

“Despite the rise in cases in our general population right now, schools are actually very, very safe places for our students and our staff to be,” Higginson said.

“There’s a very good layer of protection, our safety plans are working. It’s when we start gathering in places where there are no safety plans that COVID is being transmitted in B.C. So what that tells me is that our schools are safe, our plans are working and that we don’t need to consider interrupting the face-to-face instruction that our kids are getting.”

During a briefing last week, Higginson said she was told that since schools opened in September there had been only 12 cases of in-school transmission inB.C, even though 650,000 to 700,000 people are involved in the Kindergarten to Grade 12 system every day.

Instead of adding to school safety plans, Higginson said, it’s important to focus on making sure that the existing plans are being implemented consistently, “because they’re working.”

Reduced winter hours at RDOS landfills starting December 2020

Starting December 2020 and running through the end of February 2021, landfills in Penticton, Oliver, Okanagan Falls and Keremeos will have reduced winter hours.

All Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) landfills will be closed on statutory holidays and Boxing Day.

The Oliver Landfill opens at a later time on weekdays in winter. From December 1st to the end of February the Oliver Landfill is open Noon to 3:45 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 3:45 pm on Saturday.

The Okanagan Falls Landfill will be closed Saturdays over winter but remains open from 10:00 am to 1:45 pm on weekdays.

“I have no time for people who are belligerent and are trying to make some sort of a statement about anti-vax, and think that this is not a truly challenging pandemic,” Henry said Wednesday.

“I have no time for people who believe that wearing a mask somehow makes them ill or is a sign of lack of freedom. To me, it’s about respect for our fellow people who are suffering through this with us, and about making sure we’re doing our piece in solidarity to get us through this really challenging time.”

“When people try and compare what really is at best inconvenience with injustice, I think they’re just wrong,” Dix added.

UPDATE on Interior Health Covid- 19 numbers:

IH is reporting 70 new cases overnight, for a total of 1,426 cases since early 2020 – of those

1087 recovered

336 cases are active and in isolation

Five people are in hospital. One in ICU according to BC CDC

The number of dead remains at 3.

The morning after – building does not appear damaged that badly but likely gutted inside

***

Manjit Saran, whose family owns the fruit stand, said the business was closed for the season and the building was not occupied at the time of the fire

Manjit was alerted to the fire by a motorist who spotted the blaze on the building’s roof, as they drove by, and knocked on the door of her house to tell her about the flame

Saran said it is too early to say how serious the damage was and if they will be able to repair the structure

The Oliver Fire Department confirmed there were no injuries as a result of the fire.

Photo Credits Oliver Daily News
Interview with Manjit Saran – Global BC

The number of people who died from illicit drug toxicity in October 2020 (162) represents a 116% increase over the number of deaths in October 2019 (75). The BC Coroners Service has detected a sustained increase of illicit drug toxicity deaths since March 2020.

The province has now recorded eight consecutive months with over 100 illicit drug toxicity deaths.

OR 800 plus deaths

“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a devastating effect on the overdose crisis in B.C.,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer.

“Exacerbating this is the highly toxic drug supply that exists in our communities right now.

Question???? How are the two problems related?

One seems to have more death and less attention
One seems to have less deaths and gets all the attention

Lia – maybe you can explain this better than I can

My take – a wonderful gift

Time to divert our attention back to family, kids, playing in the snow and lighting the fireplace

Week 21 400 Club Winners

Regular Draw November 24, 2020 – Merle Waite – Ticket 397 – $52.00

Regular Draw November 24, 2020 – Linda Nunes – Ticket 355 – $100.00

Thank you to all our supporters, members and the community

Have a

Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year

BPOE Lodge 267

***

It’s just a mask, what’s the big deal?

With all the misinformation, the fear mongering, and the horrible comments like “your going to kill my grandmother” going around it’s hard to think clearly.

Looking at just the comments on ODN, we have seen it all! Sadly, what we see most is the horrible and the fearmongering, largely based on emotion driven by misinformation and fear. There have been many good comments and points of view and there have also been the views of professionals in the field. We may not agree these points and views, but unfortunately most people know very little except what they see on the screen.

I’m not going to get into the fact’s, people can look for the truth if they want, or just believe what they are told by people like that Dr. Tam, who suggested that “Canadians should practice holding their breath for extended periods of time”

It is your right to choose to wear a mask, or do anything you feel you may need to do to protect yourself. It is not your right to berate or belittle someone if they chose not to do as you do. When the government starts dictating to the people what they can and cannot do in their own homes and business, we are no longer a free country.

At what point do you realize your human rights are under attack?

Is it when you are told to wear a mask in the park, in your car, in your home? is it when the police come to your door after someone calls them and says you had a neighbour over for coffee? it’s when you are herded like livestock onto a rail car, or will you finally wake up when they’re pushing you into the gas chamber?

This may sound extreme, but history appears to be repeating itself.

Ed Machial

***

Editor’s note

I think Ed is trying to be fair to his point of view… others who have different points of view are pejorative, often prejudiced, often misinformed. – those who believe that –

That god will protect them, no accidents will happen to them, all will be well and yes Government, big government, big oil, big pharma are all working in your best interest. I really do not see that.

We in Interior Health have done well for a number of reasons – as in Northern H, VI Health etc. – it is in the south west where the problem lies and we often delude our selves by getting upset, more scared by the figures in the USA and a few other countries.

The media used to talk about Mexico, Brazil, India – but no the focus is on how stupid Don John is or how wise Sleepy Joe is.

Most of us also have never been in local government, provincial government or in the federal government but the arm chair quarterbacks expect all governments, all those left and right to agree with them.

Just not possible. In BC 227 in hospital with Covid and 3 of those in Interior Health.

I think we have heard many opinions – let us give it a rest.

Think of something that we can talk about that is NOT Covid 19 related.

A health care crisis in Oliver with a shortage of Doctors – and even the ones still here do not want to touch your body or give you sage advice… ten minutes on the phone maybe every two months — and it would seem you are LUCKY if you get that. No visits just prescriptions.

Peter we shall miss your sparky personality. You really should not go. But we all make our own decisions.

written by Jack Bennest, who is solely responsible for the content of this editorial

4181 HWY 97 – north of Rd 20

Saran Fruit Market – heavy damage

Time 12:39 pm  Tuesday

Most units from Oliver RCMP, EMS, Osoyoos Fire and Oliver Fire departed at 3:15 – on scene for about 2 and a half hours. No report of injuries. Cause not known. Traffic on Hwy 97 restored.

Dr. Peter Enthwistle, right,  is set to leave Oliver at the end of the year – heading east. Alan Ruddiman is seated left, former head of Doctors of BC

Two of his clients notified ODN of this upcoming change but we could not reach Peter at his main street office or at the OIB clinic.

“No letter yet, but did speak with him going end of December to PEI to Tignish to take over clinic. Small town only about 800 people. Said he just wanted a change and it was offered to him couple years ago.”

“I was gutted to get the news yesterday that Peter is leaving but can’t say that I blame him as he has been such a good doctor. He has fought hard for hospital and to improving what is available for those with addictions I wish him well and will be writing to him to tell him so. The College needs to do more about accepting doctors from other countries without making it so hard for them to receive a licence here.”

The Board said goodbye and gave thanks to Karla Kozakevich, our current Board Chair. Kozakevich served on the Board for the maximum allowed time under the eight-year legislation, chaired the Policy and Planning Committee for several years, and served as the Board Chair for the past two years.  She will be missed by the Board and by staff. Karla will continue as Chair until the Board elects her successor at the next meeting in February.

***

At the November 2020 meeting

of the Okanagan Regional Library Board of Trustees, the group:

• approved the 2021 budget with a minimal less than 1% increase (0.75%), recognizing that taxpayers face many challenges with COVID-19
• was presented with updates and changes to the COVID-19 influenced services model, which since late summer has moved to browse and borrow
• heard that physical circulation of books in October had recovered to 81% of 2019 levels despite in-person programming cancelled by COVID-19
• heard that circulation of virtual materials like e-books continues to increase significantly
• announced that they had reached an agreement with CUPE, which both parties have now approved for a 3-year contract running to December 2023, and includes an inflationary increase of 2% per year.

The lane behind “No Frills” – Oliver Place Mall

Let me have a go with explaining a council decision in three bullets:

1. The one way, one lane, neglected piece of road on the NE corner of the mall will close and be transformed into a pathway for walkers and cyclists. More lawn
2. The north exit/entrance to the mall shall be improved by allowing usual access from the Hwy and Coop Street. It will allow a safe exit left or right
3. At the rear of the mall explaining things a bit more difficult. Vehicles wanting to access, the Packing House back entrance, or to offload goods at the rear of mall will enter the area from the south or the east. I believe all the changes will be made once the new housing project is complete. The corner of Packinghouse Lane and Airport Street will be a wide left/right corner for safety and convenience of truckers and those that will live in the area.

So if you desire to head to the new mall – and live west of the Hwy – I think you know what to do.

If you live east of Main Street – you have two options.

Use Fairview to the Hwy – turn left proceed south

Or you can use a more circuitous route of Fairview/Station/Sawmill/Similkameen/Airport/Road 1 to go to and from the Southwind Mall.

Change is hard for some. This decision will improve safety and create a local street behind the mall.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister Jo-Anne Emerson (nee Casorso)

Jo-Anne was born in Oliver BC on April 29, 1960 the youngest of 4 children and the only girl. After high school Jo-Anne moved to Vancouver for schooling where she met the love of her life and settled in Burnaby to raise their family.

Jo-Anne will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and friend as well as for her caring and generous nature, But to us she will always be remembered as the family history keeper, who knew all the names, faces, birthdays and recipes.

Jo-Anne passed on November 17, 2020 with her beloved husband by her side. She leaves behind her husband Sandy, her children Samantha and Kevin, her brothers Dave (Wanda), Stan (Debbie), and Ron (Ruth) as well as many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

The family is planning to have a celebration of Jo-Anne’s life when we are able to gather together again, and as such there will be no service at this time

Graphic True Engineering
Report Staff of Town of Oliver

***
.

2021 Water Rates Bylaw – Council gave first three readings to the 2021 Water Rates Bylaw.
Water rates will increase 4% effective January 1, 2021. The 4% rate increase is estimated to
increase the average residential water user fees from $386 to $401. This is a yearly increase of
about $15 or a monthly increase of about $1.25.

2021 Sewer Rates Bylaw – Council gave first three readings to the 2021 Sewer Rates Bylaw.
Sewer rates will increase 4% effective January 1, 2021. The rate increase of 4% for 2021 is
estimated to increase the average residential sewer user fees from $274 to $285. This is a yearly
increase of about $11 or a monthly increase of about $1.00.

Development Permit – 215 Maple Avenue – Council approved the development permit for 215
Maple Avenue to allow the applicant to construct a 215m2 (2,316ft2) building for the storage
of rental equipment. As the property is located within the Industrial Development Permit Area
of the Official Community Plan, approval for the design and landscaping was required.
Fire Control Amendment Bylaw 1369.01 – Council gave first three readings to amend Fire
Control Bylaw 1369. The bylaw amendments are contained within Section 7 Services to include
provision for first responder, and Section 15 Burning Without a Permit by adding use of natural
gas, propane or briquettes.

Notice of Motion – Tax Rate Analysis – Council directed staff to bring forward a report outlining
the business tax multiple strategy adopted by Council in February 2012. The goal of the 2012
strategy was to shift the tax burden from business to residential. The report is to include an
analysis of any shift in tax burden among these two property classes; a description of alternative
tax distribution methods used amongst property classes, including pros and cons; and include
a competitive comparison analysis of business tax rates in Oliver to that of neighbouring
municipalities.

Oliver Parks & Recreation Society Letter of Support – Council approved providing Oliver Parks
& Recreation a letter of support to Tree Canada for the Tree-mendous Communities grant
application. The application is for the planting of 100 trees and bushes in Community Park to
celebrate 100 years in the development of Oliver

Armstrong
Pleasant Valley Manor

Gastrointestinal Illness (GI) Residential 11/16/2020

Kamloops
Hamlets at Westsyde Unit C1/C2

COVID-19 Residential 11/16/2020

Kelowna

Sun Pointe Village
Belgo Unit

COVID-19 Residential 11/16/2020

Penticton
Village by the Station

COVID-19 Residential 11/16/2020

Kelowna
Orchard Manor
COVID-19 Residential 11/20/2020

FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS

I really believe in free speech. Living in a country where we are free to air our opinions and have them heard is a wonderful thing. In some countries, people are persecuted and imprisoned for daring to speak their minds. Not so in Canada, we are blessed with so many rights and privileges and, even if we quote a lot of untruths, we are not silenced.

However, the right to give your opinion does not give you the right to call other folks’s opinions wrong. An opinion is just that….a point of view, mine is just as valid as yours and you do not have the right to deny my voice, or I yours.

This wonderfully fair way of allowing each citizen to speak his mind seems to get really heated when people do not agree with what you are saying, so how can that be free speech?

For some reason, Covid has become a hot topic for people airing their points of view and those with a different attitude are quick to jump in and declare it wrong. Does it really matter if it is right or wrong to wear a mask? Nobody is actually forced to wear a mask, you just can’t enter the store without one so you will need to get your goods on line or have the store deliver. You are not denied service, just service face to face, but the telephone or computer can solve this problem so you can order from the comfort of your own home.

The medical order is not to gather in groups, however, if you do wish to have lots of friends over, then do so, just do not then go out into the world at large and spread your germs round at the workplace or in a public place. You have the perfect right to gather and have fun, just not the right to possibly spread infection to others so, if your friends are wiling to take the risk, then certainly get together, but then stay together for fourteen days, don’t go amongst people who are trying to follow the rules and prevent the spread of disease.

Whilst the figures quoted each day are alarming, they really do not scare me. I am in the right age group to get sick but, by staying home and keeping my bubble to a small group of equally careful friends, I feel safe from harm. Oliver is a relatively small place and, luckily, seems to be keeping germ free, so it is easy to feel comfortable. I walk my dog in the park each day and speak to dozens of people as I pass them by. However, they are all at a distance and I feel no fear in doing this.

Wearing a mask in a store is usually a fairly short lived event, a half hour maximum to get groceries, forty five minutes for my hair to be washed and cut and maybe ten minutes in the bank or smaller store. I appreciate the fact that most people I see are also wearing their mask, to keep themselves, and also me, safe.

I really do not appreciate being called a “sheep” and gullible for doing what has been asked of me. It is a courtesy to others who may be suffering from some immune disease that cannot fight germs. If it keeps me safe at the same time, that is a bonus.

While the number of deaths, per capita, is not really that high, why not do your part to prevent illness. It really is no big deal to put on the mask, wear it while entering restaurants, until you are sat, with your small group at your table.

Not all that long ago people were complaining that seat belts were an unnecessary restriction, children were left loose to climb around in the family car and very few families had a child car seat. Motor bikes riders were not required to wear a helmet and bicycle riders were always bareheaded. Sailing was a fun filled Sunday sport until the powers that be decided that life jackets should be used. Always some Government authority came along to make up some rules requiring some sort of safety gear. A pain in the rear end? You bet! However, these things, once enforced became the norm and quite accepted.

Relax your attitude and accept the mask requirements, it is just another safety measure and, although you may think it unnecessary, just ask yourself if you travel without a seatbelt? If you can’t agree with my point of view, that is fine, but allow me the courtesy of airing it. Please don’t call me a sheep and if you will not cover your face, then please take care not to breath on me.

Go to Oliver Fire Department FB
2020 skit

wonder bar

“We have seen a significant rise in new cases, hospitalizations, and tragically, deaths,” said Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry announcing new public orders on Nov. 19.

“Our hospitals are getting stretched.

Our ICU capacity is getting stretched,

Our communities are suffering.”

22 hospitals in Interior Health – one person in a hospital in ICU with Covid-19

All outbreaks at care homes caused by staff who tested positive.

No one living at ANY long term care homes affected.

Honours and awards

1995 : Knight of the National Order of Merit (France)
2000 : Knight of the Legion of Honour (France)
2002 : European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Excellence Award (France)
2003 : Jean Valade Prize (Fondation pour la recherche médicale, France)
2005 : Medical grand round (Chicago, USA)
2008 : Sackler International Prize (Tel Aviv University)
2009 : Eloi Collery Prize (Académie Nationale de Médecine)
2010 : Grand prix de l’Inserm (France)
2011 : Officier of the Legion of Honour (France)
2015 : Grand Prix scientifique de la Fondation Louis D. (Institut de France)
2015 : Commander of the National Order of Merit (France)

***

Didier Raoult

***

On 17 March 2020, Raoult announced in an online video that a trial involving 24 patients from southeast France supported the claim that hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin were effective in treating for COVID-19.

20 March, he published a preliminary report of his study online in the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents.[39] The French Health Minister, Olivier Véran, was reported as announcing that “new tests will now go ahead in order to evaluate the results by Professor Raoult, in an attempt to independently replicate the trials and ensure the findings are scientifically robust enough, before any possible decision might be made to roll any treatment out to the wider public”.[40] Veran refused to endorse the study conducted by Raoult and the possible health ramifications, on the basis of a single study conducted on 24 people.

The French media also reported that the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi had offered French authorities millions of doses of the drug for use against COVID-19. On 3 April, the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, which publishes the journal, issued a statement that the report on the non-blind, non-randomized study “does not meet the Society’s expected standard, especially relating to the lack of better explanations of the inclusion criteria and the triage of patients to ensure patient safety.”.

Raoult was one of 11 prominent scientists named on 11 March to a committee to advise on scientific matters pertaining to the epidemic in France. He did not attend any of the meetings and resigned from the committee on 24 March saying that he refused to participate. He denounced the “absence of anything scientific sound,” and criticized its members for “not having a clue.” He defended chloroquine as a benchmark drug for lung diseases, saying that it had suddenly been declared dangerous after having been safely used for 80 years.Following the reports and the complaint filed with the Order of Physicians in July by the French-speaking Society of Infectious Pathology (Spilf), the departmental council of the Order of Physicians filed a complaint against Didier Raoult.

Source: Wikipedia

Tis the season to be jolly

Oh right on Jack ( da Publisher )

I am trying to put a bit of light into a very dark world

The lord and his mistress, Miss Mother Nature is not cooperating with BRILLIANT sunshine on the white hills we call home.

Ok enough of that carol singing……..

What should ODN do – follow the provincial government dictates when that same government supports the obedient printed media but not my business.

Nope – ODN has to move to covering da news from ALL angles. Even if disturbing to you.

We are in a very interesting time when – the flakes of the righteous and the flakes of the lefteous are arguing – who is right and who is wrong?

Should ODN be an agent of either side or should it ALLOW the debate.

Mainstream media is into Fear, Repetition, Propaganda – from a control point of view

ODN only uses government statistics. Readers may say commenters and those with a letter are wrong. Sorry I do not have resources to be a fact checker but if lady says she is a doctor – I have to respect that education and reference. (In comparison to the quack checkers who discount everything they do not like on here.)

And they never leave. They go on and on and on – because they must prove to themselves they are RIGHT.

ODN says one thing. No one is right…. at the moment.

Stay safe, where a mask, enjoy Christmas with your small bubble.

Stephen Malthouse, MD
Denman Island, BC
V0R 1T0

Dr. Bonnie Henry,
British Columbia Provincial Health Officer,
Ministry of Health,

I am a physician who has been in family medical practice in BC for more than 40 years and a member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC since 1978.

I am writing this letter with the hope that you will be able to clarify the basis of your decision-making that has led our provincial government, health ministry, regional health officers, hospitals, medical staff, WorkSafe BC, businesses, and everyday citizens to follow pandemic policies that do not appear based on high-quality scientific research and, in fact, appear to be doing everyone a great deal of harm.¹

The early intent of mitigation measures to “flatten the curve”, when we knew very little about SARS-CoV-2, its mode of transmission, and the severity of COVID-19, was reasonable. I believe that most physicians in Canada, myself included, whether active or retired, prepared themselves to take part on the front lines for the expected COVID-19 tsunami. Very soon it was apparent that the expected overwhelming of the hospital system was not going to occur, and now BC physicians have questions about the appropriateness of your public health policies.

The epidemiological evidence clearly shows that the “pandemic” is over and no second wave will follow. The evidence has been available for at least 4-5 months and is irrefutable.^2-4 Yet, in spite of this substantial body of research, your office is perpetuating the narrative that a pandemic still exists and a second wave is expected. This false story is being used to justify public health policies that appear to have no health benefits, have already caused considerable harm, and threaten to create more harm in the future.

As you are aware, Sweden took an entirely different approach and, as of mid-September, their infection rate reached an all-time low and Covid-19 related deaths were at zero; 22 of 31 European countries, most of which enacted strict lockdowns, had higher infection rates. Sweden has also largely escaped the financial ruin and catastrophic mental health problems experienced in other countries, including Canada and the U.S.A.

Dr. Lawrence Rosenberg, Montréal’s medical officer, has stated “this COVID virus is much like the seasonal flu”. A group of over 400 Belgian doctors have stated “COVID is not a killer virus, but a treatable condition”. Eighteen Canadian doctors wrote the Ontario Premier, Doug Ford, stating “your policies risk significantly harming our children with lifelong consequences”. The Ontario policies are very similar to those of British Columbia.

In 2011, a review of the literature by the British Columbia Centres for Disease Control that sought to evaluate the effectiveness of social distancing measures such as school closures, travel restrictions, and limitations on mass gatherings as a means to address an influenza pandemic concluded that “such drastic restrictions are not economically feasible and are predicted to delay viral spread, but not impact overall mortality”. [Italics added]

Specifically, there appears to be no scientific or medical evidence for^5-6

1. Self-isolation of asymptomatic people
2. social distancing
3. facemasks
4. arbitrary closure of businesses
5. closure of schools, daycares, park amenities, and playgrounds
6. the discontinuance of access to education, medical, dental, chiropractic, naturopathic, hearing, dietary, therapeutic, and other support for the physically and mentally disabled, particularly special needs children with neurological disorders
7. the closing down of or restrictions on religious places of worship.

According to the CDC Pandemic Severity Index, none of these measures have been warranted. The Great Barrington Declaration, signed by more than 30,000 health scientists and medical doctors from around the world, adds support for this statement.

Surprisingly, the recommendation for reducing COVID-19 morbidity and mortality by supplementing with vitamin D, a measure that is supported by high-quality research, has been absent from your frequent public broadcasts and professional bulletins.⁷  Optimizing nutrition is a convenient, inexpensive, and safe method of improving immune resistance and has been confirmed through numerous studies for both prevention and treatment of COVID-19. As far as I am aware, you have never mentioned something as simple as vitamin D supplements for our most vulnerable citizens. Yet, it was the promise to protect these same citizens that was used to justify the lockdown of a healthy population and the closure of businesses.

Why are you still using PCR testing? The Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Health in Ontario has publicly stated that the PCR test yields over 50% false positives. A New York Times investigative report found that PCR testing yields up to 90% false positives due to excessive amplification beyond the recommendations of the manufacturer. The PCR test was never designed, intended or validated to be used as a diagnostic tool. Even the Alberta Health Services COVID-19 Scientific Advisory Group has stated “clinical sensitivity and specificity values have not been determined for lab developed RT-PCR testing in Canada”.⁸  Despite expert consensus, you continue to use this inappropriate and inaccurate test to report so-called “cases” and justify your decisions.^9-18

The public health definition of a “case” is very broad. As all experienced doctors know, a “case” is a patient with significant symptoms who is often hospitalized. A “case” is not a person who simply has a questionably positive PCR test and presents with no symptoms or an unrelated diagnosis. Pictures of healthy young adults standing in line to get PCR tests, with a cell phone in one hand and a Starbucks coffee in the other, are everywhere in the media. These are not sick people and do not need testing.

Nevertheless, your public announcements repeatedly emphasize that the “case” counts are rising and we are in big trouble. Recently, “out-of-control” case counts were used to justify a second lockdown in Ontario and Quebec. Curfews have been put into place. People are being asked to risk their livelihoods to make sacrifices for the general good, based on Public Health’s misrepresentation of “cases” as sick people.

Meanwhile, hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and deaths from COVID-19 have dropped to pre-pandemic levels. Where are all the patients?

Why not simply tell the public that

• the PCR testing is not reliable and is meaningless for diagnosing COVID-19
• positive PCR test results do not represent sick patients,
• rarely are people now becoming ill from SARS-CoV-2,
• provincial hospitals are essentially empty of COVID-19 patients,
• decisions should not be based on “cases” in the news,
• the morbidity/mortality of COVID-19 has not exceeded seasonal influenza,
• the median age of death from COVID-19 in Canada was 85 years,
• the pandemic is over, and
• no second wave is coming?

It is your duty as the provincial health officer to provide facts, not propaganda, and make every effort to stop the public panic. The only reason for emphasizing “cases” is to induce more fear and thereby compliance in the name of promised safety.

Why are children being pursued with a new rinse-and-spit saliva test that is also based on a worthless PCR test? Children have been terrorized and are being given the message that they can never be trusted not to infect their family and friends — essentially, that they are naturally bad. The insistence on covering their faces with masks, a proven useless and even harmful measure, only worsens this sense of shame. The psychological fallout from such messaging is going to be horrific. One only needs to walk down Main Street to already see the catastrophic effects of these messages on the mental and emotional health of families.

The excess death toll from partial lockdowns, social distancing and other public health measures is staggering. The Canadian media reports that provincial measures have been shown to create 12:1 more deaths than the virus; there has been a 40% increase in heart attack deaths in Canada from fear, anxiety and cancelled hospital procedures; suicide and drug overdose deaths have increased and outnumber COVID-19 deaths by a ratio of 3:1; suicides have doubled in BC since April; and anxiety and depression, food insecurity, domestic violence, and child abuse have skyrocketed. With unnecessary school closures, the ability of teachers to identify children subject to abuse and malnourishment has been curtailed. Many of our friends, family and patients died alone, terrified, and isolated against their will in facilities and nursing homes. That cruel policy was unjustified and inhuman.

How is it possible that a doctor with your previous training and experience did not anticipate the collateral damage of your public health policies – the economic disruption, the psychological and physical health consequences, and the deaths from despair?

The mainstream media has created a religion out of public health, one based on superstition, not science, with the power to rule over an obedient public. The news channels have raised you to almost saint-like status. Tea towels, shoes and murals have been designed to celebrate your accomplishments. Yet, your public directives do not make sense, contradict the research, and are causing people a great deal of harm. As a fellow doctor, I appeal to you to re-examine your policies and change direction before Public Health causes irreparable damage to our province’s health and economic well-being. That about-face will require you to meet the obligations of your office.

Stephen Malthouse, MD

UPDATE on IH numbers:

• IH is reporting 31 new cases overnight, for a total of 1,203
• 235 cases are active and on isolation
• One person is in a IC Unit.
• Total number of deaths in IH remains at three.

Getting to be a familiar phrase.

APC meetings cancelled

Strata meetings cancelled

Seniors Centre open days cancelled

Community breakfasts cancelled

What will be next ?

I contacted Santa and he said… “Ho Ho – I am Covid-19 free and will fly higher this year. No need for milk and cookies.”

He is bringing his own whiskey. He will rely on the reindeer – Cops will have a challenge catching up with him in the middle of the night.

All joking aside.  Cold weather fishing is allowed. A campfire is optional based on the venting index

Be calm, Be considerate, Be fair.

Lower your blood pressure when reading ODN.

Oliver Daily New today declared a lock down. But on Saturday will attempt to inform you and even irritate the faithful, in their comfortable ‘superannuated’ pews.