May 11 - 2023

Community ca$h

THIS WEEK

INTL ADVOCATE

A local MMIWG2S+ advocate is headed abroad to raise awareness about MMIWG and domestic violence issues, with her first stop in France.

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NEW DOCTOR

The Medical Office on Granite Avenue and Charters Street will soon gain a new doctor, after the clinic announced Dr. Morgan Lyttle would soon leave.

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MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL

A special section celebrating mothers and their impact on our lives and the world, including poems, stories, and tips to give mom a great day.

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NURSING WEEK

A special section on the National Nursing Week, including stories about local nurses, provincial issues, and a ‘thank you’ to nurses from local businesses.

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Local MMIWG2s+ advocate Cannes bound

the works.

Later this month, Jack and her mother, Beverly Alexander, will head to fashion week in Cannes. The multi-day festival features a number of Indigenous models and designers from around the world, including four designers that personally picked Jack to wear their designs. They include Alyssia Sutherland, Natasha Thompson-Barnes, Rebekah Jarvey, and Dante Biss-Grayson.

The road to Cannes has not been an easy one, with Jack seeing the ad for the festival and applying late. She still managed to raise the thousands of dollars needed to attend through donations and sponsorships, and will soon be hitting the stage in front of the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert DeNiro, Martin Scorcese, and Lily Gladstone. With all that she has overcome in recent months and years, Jack said she is proud of what she has accomplished.

“I was very lost in addiction, due to all the trauma that I had endured,” explained Jack. “I just kind of snapped one day, and lost myself in addiction, and lost my family. I went to rehab, and now I’m over 200 days in my sobriety.”

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Content warning: this report contains content that some people may find disturbing or triggering. Discretion is advised.

A local Missing and Murdered Indigenous Womens and Girls (MMIWG) survivor and activist is representing Merritt and the Nicola Valley on the international stage, sharing her story of adversity and triumph while wearing the designs of world famous artists.

Danielle Jack is an Indigenous single mother that has resided in the community for 26 years, and has been advocating for underrepresented groups such as MMIWG and domestic abuse survivors for as long as she can remember. Jack previously told the Herald that a recent abduction scare kickstarted her activism, but the underlying cause was her sexual assault at 12 years old.

“I’ve been active in MMIWG for many years now, because I am a survivor,” said Jack. “I was abducted when I was 12 years old. I was beaten and brutally raped. When

they thought I was dead, they left me on the side of the road and urinated on me. I had to walk home naked. I know what it’s like to be missing, I know that feeling to be gone. That’s why I fight so much to help find our missing.”

Now, Jack has worked to overcome her trauma, addiction, and other hurdles, and will soon head to Cannes, France, for International Indigenous Fashion Week to share her story and wear the designs of four different artists.

“I’m just really blessed, I just don’t even know how I got to this point, it just happened so fast,” Jack told the Herald.

“It is a remarkable feeling, to have people believe in you that much. It’s all very surreal. It is a huge blessing to have all these opportunities.”

Before heading to Cannes, Jack will visit Timmins, Ontario for a speaking engagement to share her story, and raise awareness of the wider issue of MMIWG2S+ and domestic abuse. The local activist recently signed with Evangelista Talent Management in Vancouver, with a number of film projects and tour stops about her life experiences in

CENTS DUCK RACE

The Merritt Centennials Junior Hockey Club is hosting a Rubber Duck Race on June 3 at Lion’s Park Pedestrian Bridge. Just 950 ducks are available for purchase, with cash prizes for the owners of the three fastest ducks. Ducks are $20 each.

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She credits her mother for being her biggest support system, sticking by her side even as she battled her addiction and trauma. Jack’s mother told the Herald that she has seen her daughter grow into the artist and activist that she is today, a sense of pride in her voice.

“It makes me feel great, I’m so happy for her,” added Alexander. “I’m gonna be there to support her, for sure. It’s going to be an amazing trip.”

This year, Jack has trips to Timmins, Cannes, New York, and Hollywood planned for speaking and modeling engagements, spreading awareness of the ongoing MMIWG2S+ crisis that is happening in B.C, Canada, and across the world.

Looking back on the challenges she has faced, and the progress she has made, Jack offered some works of advice to her younger self.

“What I would tell my younger self is focus on your healing,” said Jack. “If you really address that, there’s really nothing that you can’t overcome when you face yourself and your trauma. I was at a point where I stopped believing in myself, and I really believed that I didn’t deserve what life had to offer. Once I really faced my trauma, that self-belief and self-love was right there.”

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HIGH SCHOOL RODEO

The High School Pro Rodeo circuit visited Merritt, with a number of locals and visitors alike competing in rodeo events. The Herald chatted with this year’s High School Rodeo Queen and vice president to catch up on all things rodeo and talk about the rodeo’s numerous events.

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Local MMIWG2s+ survivor and activist Danielle Jack.

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The Medical Clinic gaining new doctor

Merritt will soon gain another physician, with Merrittonian Dr. Ajhmair Lali returning to the Nicola Valley from university later this year to begin his medical career at home. Lali will join The Medical Clinic, who announced in January of this year that Dr. Morgan Lyttle would be closing his practice as early as April 2023.

The new doctor’s practice will consist of a combination of two recently closed practices, Dr. Simpson and Dr. Lyttle. The clinic said that while it is unfortunate they are not able to accommodate all previous patients to become Lali’s patients at this time, they do not maintain a waitlist, nor will one be created, as the clinic already has such an extensive list of patients requiring a physician.

“As everyone is aware we have had two practices close recently in Merritt,” wrote the clinic in its posting to a local Facebook group. “With that being said, this has left an approximate 3,100 people without a family doctor in our medical system which is already struggling.”

Merritt currently has five doctors with local practices, including Dr. Drew Soderberg and Dr. Patrick Goetz of The Medical Clinic, who will soon be joined by Lali. The Nicola Valley Medical Centre on Granite Avenue is home to Dr. Duncan Ross and Dr. Donald McLeod, with Dr. Paul

Simon also having a local practice at Mountain Medical Clinic in the Railyard Mall. Merritt also has one nurse practitioner (NP) who operates out of Conayt Friendship Centre.

Once Lali joins The Medical Clinic in the coming months, Merritt will be up to six doctors, but The Medical Clinic said in its post that work is ongoing to recruit another doctor. Lali was raised in Merritt, graduating from Merritt Secondary School before starting his medical school journey. The clinic added in their post that a regulation by the BC College of Physicians and Surgeons stating that physicians are generally not supposed to treat themselves, their family members, or others close to them creates unique challenges in a small community.

“This is challenging in a rural community, however, we will be following the guidelines of the College,” added the post. “As difficult as it is with so many people needing a physician, we will be building Dr. Lali a balanced practice based on medical needs and ages of patients within our city. We are being as fair as possible in creating his practice. As there is not a list to be placed on, there is no need to text, call, or e-mail Dr. Lali, his family, or the staff of The Medical Clinic to try and gain access to his practice.”

The Interior Health website for physician recruitment currently lists four job postings in the Nicola Valley, including one emergency medicine physician, and three family physicians.

The Nicola Valley Hospital’s emergency department has been closed ten times this year, often due to a shortage of doctors available to cover shifts. Photo/Herald File

Marius Auer

EDITORIAL

HUGHES: call to action, a return of the four pillars

Bob Hughes, CEO ASK Wellness Society

Our communities are being ripped apart from the inside out. Across the province, the impacts of the toxic drug supply are demonstrated all too frequently. Human despair and misery are visible in parks, sidewalks, and in front of businesses. No one group is immune to the risks or the consequences of addictions. The intersection of this public health emergency and the growing number of affordable housing casualties, paired with our inability to hold people accountable for criminal activity, has left us with a tsunami of social and health impacts.

As someone who has worked in the social services field for over 25 years, I have seen the pendulum swing from one strategy to another in attempting to remedy and address the impacts of addiction.

During the early 2000’s in BC, we were

first introduced to harm reduction as a tool to reduce the spread of transmittable infections. Soon after, in an attempt to develop a strategy to combat and address the increasing presence of Crystal Methamphetamine and “China White” Heroin in Vancouver, then Mayor Phillip Owen adopted the Four Pillar Approach to tackle the toll that severe addiction was taking on both individuals and the community. The approach took some time for public acceptance. Many groups were wary of the foundations of harm reduction. This included supplying condoms and access to sterile and free needles for those using injectable substances. A collaborative effort to implement the principles of harm reduction with a focus on community safety, through shared dialogue with community service providers, municipal and provincial government, and law enforcement, seemed preposterous at the time yet was effective in transforming the community issues noted above.

Fast forward 20 years, and we must

ask: where did the Four Pillars go? For those unfamiliar, the model, first pioneered in Switzerland, involved promoting and bringing together the resources of Prevention (early intervention, education), Harm Reduction (reducing as best as possible the most severe impacts of substance use), Treatment/Recovery (options to treat substance use disorder effectively, promptly, and universally) and finally, using Enforcement (incarceration, judicial orders for those who commit offences related to addictions). These Four Pillars provided the backbone to tackling addiction for over a decade as communities developed committees and round tables to integrate a local response to what then seemed like a monumental, but absolutely necessary, coordinated approach. This model was never intended to rely primarily on one pillar such as harm reduction. No structure can rest on one pillar, or it will topple.

Looking at the landscape today,

Continued Page 7

what seems so glaringly absent is a coordinated framework: a pathway out of this human and civic catastrophe. Across the province, we can see the conflicting battle being waged between the advocates of harm reduction and enforcement. The result has been various levels of government fighting with each other, neighbours at odds with neighbours, and community groups lashing out at the agencies tasked

with supporting those attempting to address their addictions and establish stable housing. As the leader of a large nonprofit organization drowning in the demands of people without access to affordable housing, criticized at every step by an outraged populace witnessing the impacts of addictions untethered by any real pillar of enforcement, and a recovery system burdened by almost impossible rules and lacking linkages to harm reduction services, I am now reaching out to provincial leaders. I implore both provincial parties to come togeth-

er, as they did during COVID, to map out a meaningful and measurable strategy to address what everyone agrees is both unacceptable and tragic. There needs to be complementary discussion and focus, with equal consideration to each of the Four Pillars. Harm reduction saves lives. But once saved, those lives need access to support and motivation and some cases, enforcement, to help shift behaviours and attitudes to again engage with their communities through meaningful and positive contributions.

We have had a model for decades that is logical and based on proven benefits. Perhaps the Four Pillars approach needs a new name in order for it to appear worthy. We as service providers remain open to alternate models that truly address the issues that all communities are facing. However, in the absence of anything that makes more sense to you and me, I can’t but help but ask, why not actively support, implement, and embrace each pillar of response as part of the solution.

ALBAS: Foreign power targets Member of Parliament

Ontario riding of WellingtonHalton Hills, and his family in Hong Kong were the targets of an orchestrated intimidation campaign by a diplomat representing the Beijing communist government posted in Canada.

intimidation campaign, nor was the diplomat representing the Beijing communist government expelled.

cating interference in Canadian democracy by operatives related to the Beijing communist government.

FromtheHerald archives: May, 2008

OFF TO SILGA

Merritt’s elected officials hit the road last week.

This week, a leaked document revealed that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) had briefed the Trudeau Liberal government two years ago about a foreign influence operation targeting a Canadian MP and his family.

This Conservative Member of Parliament was Michael Chong, who represents the

The reason for the campaign was MP Michael Chong’s criticism of Beijing’s human rights record- particularly his motion calling on the Government of Canada to recognize that a genocide was being carried out by the Beijing communist government against Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims.

Despite the shock of a foreign government targeting a Canadian MP and his family, the Trudeau Liberal Government did nothing about it.

MP Michael Chong was not previously notified of the

When questions arose in the House of Commons on Monday, Prime Minister Trudeau and his Public Safety Minister refused to admit when they became aware of the situation and what they had done about it.

On Tuesday, both the Prime Minister and Minister claimed they were unaware of the situation until it was raised in the media.

This raises the question of why they did not simply say so on Monday when the questions first arose and what action Prime Minister Trudeau will take in response to this latest information.

This report is the latest in a series of leaks from CSIS indi-

These include reports of “Chinese” state-run police stations in several Canadian cities, a questionable Beijing communist government donation to the Trudeau Foundation, its meddling in various ridings in the last election, and a former Liberal MP, now an independent MP, raising concerns.

Despite these mounting concerns, the Prime Minister continues to avoid answering what he knew and when or denies having knowledge of such actions and events.

My question this week: Are you concerned about growing interference in our Canadian democratic institutions?

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Mayor David Laird joined Couns. Harry Kroeker, Elmer Reimer, Ron Sherwood and 160 delegates from across B.C. for the Southern Interior Local Government Association’s (SILGA) annual general meeting in Vernon from April 30 to May 2.

LETTERS POLICY

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor.

Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address.

Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

DAN ALBAS VIEW FROM THE HILL

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Upper Nicola Band hosting Unity Run

Kerstin Auer MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Upper Nicola Band (UNB) is hosting a Unity Run on Saturday, May 27th. It is modeled after the Okanagan Nation’s annual Unity Run, with their 2023 iteration being held from July 2-6, starting in Penticton and ending in Christina Lake.

The multi-day event includes all seven bands of the Okanagan Nation and has stops in several communities; to make the event more accessible for their band members, the UNB decided to hold their own run on a local level, in partnership with the RCMP Indigenous policing services team as well as Scw’exmx Child and Family Services.

The goal of the Okanagan Nation Unity Run is to spread awareness about suicide prevention and to make space for people to talk about mental health.

“What we want to do with Upper

Nicola is to have the same kind of message, same kind of opportunity, and space to provide to our members to spread awareness for suicide prevention, but also to provide us with an opportunity to gather and spend time with one another and to spend time within our own land, within our own territory,” said Buzz Manuel Jr., cultural event coordinator with the Upper Nicola Band.

While the UNB is planning on ordering commemorative t-shirts for this event, they also want to encourage attendees to wear other colours with special meaning, like orange and pink, usually worn on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Pink Shirt Day to stand up against bullying, respectively.

“What we want to do is to keep remembering those causes. We don’t just want to have the orange shirt for one day

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WELCOME TO

KINDERGARTEN 2023 STUDENT REGISTRATION

The Board of Education of School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen)

Kindergar ten establishes a strong foundation for lifelong learning , as teachers provide dynamic, play-based oppor tunities to help each child grow and learn. Our child-centered programs de velop a sense of well-being and belonging and offer oppor tunities for exploring , creative play, de veloping language and literacy while focusing on social responsibility and cultural diversity

Kindergar ten provides our young learners with an enriched learning experience at their own unique de velopmental le vel. We look forward to working with each Kindergar ten child’s family as we welcome you to your child’s ne w school community

Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overvie w of our online registration process.

For September, 2023:

To register, a child must be 5 years of age on, or before, December 31, 2023.

Parents should register their child at the neighbourhood school.

Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overvie w of our online registration process.

If you are unable to register online, please contact your neighbourhood school.

When registering online you will need your child’s Bir th Cer tificate, immunization record, Care Card and proof of address when registering

Parents interested in a Kindergar ten distance education program for their child, can contact the South Central Interior Distance Education School at 250-378-4245

Parents wishing to enrol their child in the French Immersion Program are required to register at Collettville Elementary

If you have any questions, please contact your neighbourhood school:

and the pink shirt for one day of the year; we want people to keep spreading the word, keep commemorating the cause that they are really concerned for, and to practise it.” noted Manuel.

On May 27th, registration for the UNB Unity Run will open at 8 am at Quilchena Church, followed by an opening prayer and the beginning of the run at 9 am. Participants will run in pairs, and the first set of runners will be presented with a feather by one of the UNB elders. The feather will travel the whole distance of the run, being handed off to the next duo of runners after each leg of the run, one kilometer in length.

“It’s a community relay, it’s part of the unity we are looking to achieve” added Manuel.

The response from the community has been good according to Manuel, everyone is excited and looking forward to the date. Approximately 40 runners will participate, walk-run training sessions started week and will be held on Wednesdays up until the event. UNB staff will be training during their lunch hour and a community training session will be from 5:30 to 6:30 pm.

For more information, call Manuel at 250-315-3457.

Family confirms remains of man found

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NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The family of a missing Merritt man are confirming via social media that his remains were located on Saturday (April 29).

Daniel Nathan Meeker, 42, of Douglas Lake was last seen on June 19, 2022 after crashing his vehicle into the Nicola River near the Nicola Lake Dam. An RCMP press release from June of last year said that police suspected Meeker had washed down the Nicola River towards Merritt, with eyewitnesses from the site of the crash saying that the lone occupant of the vehicle

surfaced briefly before disappearing underwater.

Both Merritt RCMP and Meeker’s family have been conducting searches for the missing man since his disappearance, including a number of searches by family in recent weeks, with the family confirming in a Facebook post that the remains found recently in the Nicola River were Meeker’s.

Merritt RCMP Sgt. Josh Roda confirmed to Kamloops based CFJC News that human remains were recovered in the river, but was not able to comment further when asked by CFJC News last week. The Herald has reached out to Merritt RCMP for further comment.

Daniel Meeker was last seen after crashing into the Nicola River near the Nicola Lake Dam on June 19, 2022. Photo/Merritt RCMP

Marius Auer

Fresh Finds program for budding businesses

Lower Nicola Hall gets TNRD support

Community Futures is offering its Fresh Finds program for the second year in a row, offering entrepreneurs the chance to trial their product at two farmers markets. Photo/Herald

While entrepreneurship can often feel like a plunge, with business owners needing to drop everything to focus on their new business, a returning program by Community Futures Nicola Valley (CFNV) looks to give local entrepreneurs a chance to dip their toe in the water.

Fresh Finds is a program by CFNV that offers individuals interested in growing their own business a chance to trial their product or service through the Nicola Valley Farmers Market, along with a plethora of business counselling and resources. CFNV said that the program is truly a ‘celebration of community,’ touting its past successes in both business and building connections.

“It’s kind of an incubator program, that’s what we refer to these as,” said Joe Nemeth, loans officer for CFNV. “There are people at home who have something entrepreneurial that they do, they make something, they provide a service, they bake, whatever the case may be, and there are barriers for those people to start making an income from that.”

Nemeth added that the farmers market as a concept reduces barriers

on its own by offering a space to sell products and build clientele without the need for a brick and mortar location, but purchasing a tent and table, paying market fees, and knowing what steps to take are barriers of their own. CFNV looks to reduce those barriers by offering local entrepreneurs a table, tent, and spot at two farmers markets during the season completely free of charge.

The program has yielded strong results in previous years, with an approximate 40 percent of Fresh Finds participants going on to become vendors at the farmers market on a more permanent basis.

“Last year, we had a kid come in, and he was doing wood carvings and things from offcuts from his dad’s woodshop, and he was doing a fantastic job, he could barely stay in stock, so that one really stood out to me,” added Nemeth.

“We fully book almost every year, which works out to be something to the tune of a dozen or more vendors. Every single one, I’m always impressed with the creativity and the [work] ethic that they put into having a good presentation, for just those two weeks even.”

For more information on Fresh Finds, call CFNV at 250-378-3923, or email admin@cfdcnv.com.

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Lower Nicola Community Association (LNCA) recently recieved two donations towards ongoing costs of the local club, which persist despite the hall being unuseable due to a flood in recent months.

Herb Graham and David Laird, TNRD Area ‘N’ and ‘M’ directors, respectively, donated from their discretionary funds towards the LNCA and the programming it provides, which includes the highly popular

Lower Nicola Garclic Festival. Along with the festival, and other event and projects taken on by the LNCA, the organization owns the Lower Nicola Community Hall, which it rents and donates to local events and causes. The hall recently suffered damage due to a flood, which is covered by insurance, but the extra funds will pay for extra and ongoing costs.

The LNCA thanked the directors for their support, and noted that they couldn’t survive without the support of the community. The hall’s estimated reopening date is in July.

Karen Knapp of the Lower Nicola Community Association accepts a donation from both TNRD Area ‘M’ and ‘N’ directors. Photo/Submitted

File

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

professional service, from people who care.”

First niche at new Pine Ridge columbarium filled

The first of 40 niches in the City’s new columbarium has been filled after a wait of more than six years. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

After more than six years of waiting for local families, the first niche at the city’s new Pine Ridge Cemetery columbarium has been filled. The columbarium’s installation, a part of the City of Merritt’s 2017 Cemetery Master Plan, was affected by delays due to increasing project costs and a lack of operational capacity to keep the cemetery expansion on time.

Last weekend, the first niche was filled, despite years of delays that saw a number of planned features in the cemetery delayed, including the columbarium and a surrounding garden that remains incomplete.

“The short of it is that this project came in significantly over budget, having gone to request for proposal (RFP),” said Chief Administrative Officer Sean Smith, addressing council at a regular meeting in August last year.

“We budgeted $240,000 to complete phase 2 of the project, and we’re just not really even close. We had three bids come in, and the low bid was $385,000, which puts us $145,000 over budget. That is, in part, due to an increase in prices, there’s no question.”

Smith added during the meeting that the city’s initial budget may have been low in its estimations on the quantity of retaining walls needed for the expansion. He also cited contractors and public works staff’s concerns with a possible lack of City oversight should the project advance this year, as the City itself and some contractors are understaffed.

Staff suggested at the time that council push the project, allowing for more city oversight and preventing a budget amendment. Smith noted that three families are currently waiting to inter loved ones at Pine Ridge Cemetery, with one family waitlisted since 2017, causing concern for some councillors. The then-council chose unanimously to defer the project to 2023.

The Herald has reached out to the city regarding the status of the cemetery’s expansion.

Collecte de fonds for Collettville students

Seven local french immersion students from Collettville Elementary School will soon make their way to Quebec, thanks to their fundraising efforts and the help of generous donors and volunteers. Along with donations recieved, events like last weekend’s bottle drive (pictured) enable the students heading on the trip to raise funds for their educational and cultural trip to Quebec City in June. With the trip’s main organizer moving away, and COVID-19 pandemic restrictions limiting travel, it has not happened in several years, but will return in 2023. Recently, the trip received a boost in funds from Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) area directors David Laird and Herb Graham, who donated $2500 towards the cause. The Merritt Elks Lodge and Merritt Rotary Club donated $2000 and $500, respectively. Photo/Angela Russell

Adopt a Pet

City addresses residents’ diking concerns

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

In the midst of a High Streamflow Advisory last weekend on both the Coldwater and Nicola Rivers, a number of Garcia Street residents took their concerns with a potential breach on an old dike to Merritt City Hall.

Michael Beauclair, a private property owner whose Garcia Street property was flooded in November 2021, told the Herald that he noticed the earth around the dike wearing thin a number of months ago, but never heard back regarding his concern.

“I sent an email to the City of Merritt on February 14, with some pictures that outlined the area of erosion in the dike,” said Beauclair. “If they don’t deal with it, this old dike is going to breach.”

Supp or t to Rental Prop er t y Pro gram

After not hearing back for months, Beauclair said he contacted local media to try and raise awareness of the issue. Beauclair and his neighbours also contacted city hall regarding the concern. Mayor Mike Goetz told Q101 News that the city is aware of the erosion on the dam, located at the end of the 1200 block of Garcia Street, and is working to secure funding for its permanent repair.

According to Beauclair, Infracon crews were on site the next day applying temporary fixes to the eroded dike. Large boulders were placed near the eroded area, which Beauclair said satisfied his concerns, although he believes more permanent fixes are still needed.

For those impacte d by the 2021 BC Flo o ds and Ex treme Weather Event .

D o you own a rental prop er t y that was impacte d by the 2021 BC Flo o ding and Ex treme Weather Event?

If yes, please contact the Canadian Re d Cross. You may b e eligible for financial assistance

Apply at re dcross.ca/rentalprop er t y Call for info at 1-833-966-4225

Apply by May 31, 2023

Open house. Open conversation.

Enbridge is proposing an expansion of the southern portion of its natural gas transmission system to meet additional natural gas demand in the province and Pacific Northwest of the United States.

Please join us at an open house to learn about the proposed Sunrise Expansion Program and meet members of the project team who will be in attendance to share information, gather your input and answer any questions you may have

Snacks and refreshments will be served.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

3 - 7 p.m.

Merritt Civic Centre

1950 Mamette Avenue

Merritt , BC V1K 1R6

Call

The dike is shown here prior to the completion of temporary repairs by city contractors last week.

Photo/Michael Beauclair

By Shobha Mitra

A POEM FOR MOM

By Trudi Johnstone

It’s my first Mother’s Day without you and I’m trying to make it through, Because this day reminds me of everything I miss about you.

I will always miss having you near. You were the best mom you could be, and I never once doubted your unconditional love for me.

I could spend this Mother’s Day in sorrow, crying and wishing you were here, but instead I choose to celebrate your life, a life I hold so dear.

No one on earth can pretend to know what’s in God’s plan. All I can do is take it on faith and trust I’ll see you again.

XOXOX

SOMEBODY’S MOTHER

By Mary Dow Brine (1816-1913)

The woman was old and ragged and gray

And bent with the chill of the Winter’s day.

The street was wet with a recent snow

And the woman’s feet were aged and slow.

She stood at the crossing and waited long, Alone, uncared for, amid the throng

Of human beings who passed her by

Nor heeded the glance of her anxious eyes.

Down the street, with laughter and shout, Glad in the freedom of school let out, Came the boys like a flock of sheep, Hailing the snow piled white and deep.

Past the woman so old and gray Hastened the children on their way. Nor offered a helping hand to her —

So meek, so timid, afraid to stir

Lest the carriage wheels or the horses’ feet

Should crowd her down in the slippery street.

At last came one of the merry troop, The gayest laddie of all the group: He paused beside her and whispered low, I’ll help you cross, if you wish to go.

Her aged hand on his strong young arm She placed, and so, without hurt or harm,

He guided the trembling feet along, Proud that his own were firm and strong.

Then back again to his friends he went, His young heart happy and well content.

She’s somebody’s mother, boys, you know, For all she’s aged and poor and slow.

And I hope some fellow will lend a hand To help my mother, you understand, If ever she’s poor and old and gray, When her own dear boy is far away.

How non-traditional families can celebrate Mother’s Day

No two families are the same. What may be “normal” for one family could be quite unique to another.

Because families are so different, days such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Grandparent’s Day, and even days devoted to siblings or cousins present opportunities for families to celebrate diversity while honoring their family members.

Branch out to many caregivers

Certainly a person becomes a mother if she has given birth to a child. But motherhood is a much broader concept. Many women are mothers to children with whom they have little to no biological connection. Some may be relatives that filled the void left by a mother who passed away or was unable to care for children. Anyone who has stepped into the role of caretaker can and should be celebrated on Mother’s Day.

Recognizing stepmothers

The notion of the “evil stepmother” in fairy tales is inaccurate. Many children have very close relationships with their stepmothers — even retaining relationships should the stepmother divorce out of the family. Modern families even include strong connections between stepmothers and biological mothers, with each doing her part to make sure children are getting the love and support they need.

Same-sex relationships

Families continue to evolve and same-sex couples are raising children. Among married same-sex couples, 18.9 percent of the households have children under age 18. These non-traditional families can be creative as they navigate holidays like Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. One way to do so is to celebrate one parent on Mother’s Day and the other on Father’s Day. However, families also can remove gender labels and celebrate both days as Parents Day, casting love and affection on caregivers however they see fit.

Absent but not forgotten

Some mothers are not present in children’s lives for various reasons. These can include death, incarceration, illness, military deployment, or enrollment in a rehabilitation program. Mother’s Day can be a time of mixed emotions for individuals whose moms are not present, and families can work together to find ways to celebrate. This may be visiting the cemetery to pay respects or sending a letter to express one’s feelings. Individuals also can recognize those people who act as surrogate mothers, including special friends or coworkers who always listen and offer advice.

Mother’s Day can be recognized with flexibility and creativity within non-traditional families.

How to ensure a relaxing day for Mom this Mother’s Day

The unconditional love and undying patience moms exhibit as they raise their children is worthy of more than just a single day of appreciation in May. Moms do a lot for their families, and though that’s something to celebrate every day, Mother’s Day merits upping the ante in regard to showing Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated. This year, families

can work together to ensure this Mother’s Day is a day for Mom to relax and bask in all the extra attention she deserves.

• Serve breakfast in bed. Mom might be on breakfast detail on hectic weekday mornings, but Mother’s Day marks the perfect time for spouses and kids to take over those responsibilities. This year, keep the cereal in the

pantry and go the extra mile by preparing a homemade breakfast and serving it to Mom in bed. Present the meal with a small bouquet of flowers and some reading material and then let Mom eat in peace and quiet if she so prefers.

• Turn the en suite into a spa. Nothing complements a relaxing breakfast in bed better than a subsequent dip in

Mom’s own private spa. Transform the en suite or another bathroom into Mom’s personal soaking space. Clean the bathtub, light some candles around the tub and bathroom, turn on some relaxing music, dim the lights, and then invite Mom in to soak in a freshly drawn hot bubble bath.

• Keep Mom out of the kitchen. Keep the relaxing vibe going by making sure Mom doesn’t have to lift a finger in the kitchen. Make sure all the dishes are washed before Mom comes downstairs for the day and let her know you’ve already ordered lunch from a local restaurant. Even if Mom loves

to cook, a day off from kitchen detail can make Mother’s Day that much more relaxing.

• Book some time in the great outdoors. If the weather allows, visit a nearby park as a family and go for a walk. Nature has its own way of help-

ing people relax, so some time outdoors in the spring air can keep the peaceful vibe going into the afternoon. If the family includes young children, choose a park with a playground so Mom can relax and watch the kids play from a nearby bench.

• Book a dinner reservation. It might require some advance booking, as Mother’s Day reservations can be hard to come by, but a night at Mom’s favorite restaurant can be the perfect conclusion to a relaxing day. If Mom’s more of a

homebody, whip up a homemade meal and let Mom relax with a glass of wine as you prepare a feast.

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to plan a day of relaxation for mothers who do so much for their families throughout the year.

An introduction to National Nursing Week 2023

Originally proclaimed as National Nurses Week in 1985, the name was changed in 1993 to National Nursing Week to better highlight the accomplishments of the discipline as a whole. For the first time this year, the contributions of Indigenous nurses were celebrated during the inaugural BC Indigenous Nurses Day on April 10.

“The day coincides with the birth date of Charlotte Edith Anderson Monture (April 10, 1890), the first Indigenous person in Canada to become a registered nurse,” reads the website of the First Nations Health Authority.

social media,” reads the CNA website.

All our lives were touched by a nurse in one way or another during the last three years, with the COVID19 pandemic posing an enormous challenge to frontline healthcare workers. This year’s theme of National Nursing Week - “Our Nurses. Our Future.” - is a recognition of the essential role nurses play in our healthcare system, and a call to action to ensure the system is adapted in a way that ensures nurses can continue to play an important part in their patients’ healthcare journey.

Have you thanked a nurse lately and told them how much you appreciate their work? We always talk about the importance of our healthcare workers, especially nurses, but that one-on-one “thank you” is often

missed in the daily hustle. This week is a reminder to express your appreciation, during National Nursing Week from May 8-14.

The annual celebration always coincides with Florence Nightingale’s birthday on May 12th, and this year’s theme is ‘Our Nurses. Our Future.’ according to the Canadian Nurses Association’s (CNA) website.

There are many ways to participate in this year’s National Nursing Week; of course, social media is part of the landscape now. Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of British Columbia (NNPBC) have partnered with other provincial associations to create the #HeyNurse campaign.

“Is there a nurse you want to give a shout out to? How has a nurse made an impact in your life? Tell us about your experience and how a nurse was there for you. Share your message using the hashtag: #HeyNurse on

“To all our Interior Health nurses, I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your ongoing commitment to supporting patients, clients and each other in our journey to optimal health and well-being for all. Your caring continues to touch everyone here at IH, and beyond,” said Cheryl Whittleton, chief nursing officer and professional practice lead at Interior Health.

More ideas to participate are shared on the NNPBC website: https:// www.nnpbc.com/events/nursingweek-2023/.

This year’s National Nursing is taking place from May 8 to 14. Photo/CNA

NATIONAL NURSES WEEK

Hello, healthcare.

The Nicola Valley General Hospital, Merritt’s first hospital, was opened on April 20, 1912 during a ceremony attened by local government officials, provincial representatives, and community doctors and nurses. According to the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives, the cost of building the hospital was approximately $20,000, funded largely through both government grants, and fundraising within the community. While April 20th was the official opening of the hospital, it had been open since January 1st, 1912, and had even been stretched to capacity following the Diamond Vale Mine Disaster of March 1912, which killed seven miners, and left another two severely injured. This hospital would serve the area until 1964, when a new NVGH would be built, which contained 34 beds and much more modern equipment.

N G O U R

HE ALTHC ARE IS THE LIFEBLOOD OF OUR COMMUNIT Y. A s the largest segment of our healthcare work force, nurses carr y the weight of much of our communit y care.

Thanks to their desire to make a dif ference, along with many other healthcare workers, Merritt is blessed with multiple healthcare facilities, including the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre and Laborator y, Merritt Public Health, Merritt Mental Health & Substance Abuse, Merritt Diabetes Clinic , Nicola Meadows A ssisted Living, Gillis House long-term care, and the Merritt Adult Day Centre.

Photo/Nicola Valley Museum and Archives

NATIONAL NURSES WEEK

Hospice care a passion for retired nurse

provides funding for crucial patient programs and equipment currently not funded by Interior Health

Harit Joshi MERRITTHERALD.COM

While the authorities are working hard to overcome the healthcare shortcomings in the country, the Merritt & District Hospice Society are providing vital support to the families who are in distress and grief.

Sensing the opportunity to play a bigger role in community nursing, Carol Fulcher, the program coordinator & community liaison with Merritt & District Hospice Society, retired from her nursing profession in February 2021 to embark on a new beginning.

And there is no touch of regret as she talks to the Merritt Herald about her transition from medical to community nursing.

“The rewards are huge,” she says. “This is a different type of providing care to the community. It is more about being there and less about doing.”

Fulcher lives by the mantra of hospice society: ‘No one should die or grieve alone.’

What Fulcher and her trained team of volunteers do is provide compassionate support to individuals facing death, and support to those who are grieving.

The society also lends support to help others cope with living with loss of a near and dear one. There is also a confidential grief support group, which meets weekly, and under the guidance of the facilitator, participants help each other through the difficult journey.

“Sometimes we just sit for hours and only hear their stories with compassion. It

is also one of the processes,” Fulcher says.

Providing palliative care support is also one of the key roles of the hospice society. The focus is to make the last lap of life comfortable. There are various tasks that a hospice volunteer does, offering bedside sitting, time out for caregivers, letter-writing, reading and listening without judgment. A volunteer also visits the home, the hospital, or the care facility for fulfilling various tasks.

Providing support to the terminally ill, their families, caregivers and the bereaved is the singular mission of the Merritt & District Hospice Society since it was established in 1986.

“We talk about uncomfortable topics like end of life, things after death and create public awareness as well as educate them about vulnerable parts of life that people don’t want to address. It is also about spirituality and providing positivity. It is about giving them a voice and helping them choose a path for themselves,” Fulcher explains about the role Hospice plays in society.

For Fulcher, the decision to become a part of the hospice community nursing was essentially based on the opportunity to make a bigger impact.

“I always loved nursing. It was something that I always wanted to do and become. My entire career has been stressful. There were different stresses as a nurse. It is a different challenge now in this role. So stress has always been there. But I feel there are different stages to your career. I felt it was more about empowering and mentoring was a good role for me now. Nurses are an absolutely invaluable asset to society,” she says emphatically.

Nicola Valley Health Care Endowment Foundation would like to salute the NURSES whose tireless efforts and sacrifice continue to support all patients.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COURAGE, CARING AND INCREDIBLE WORK.

The major focus of the NVHCEF is to support Gillis House, Berta Fraser Adult Centre and the Nicola Valley Hospital & Health Centre.

Money raised stays in the community helping you, your loved ones and others in need of health care.

Retired Merritt nurse and hospice coordinator Carol Fulcher said her journey in hospice care started after retiring from nursing. Photo/Carol Fulcher

From First Matron to major entrepreneur

Kerstin Auer MERRITTHERALD.COM

It is said that nursing is a calling rather than a profession, but in the early 20th century it was one of the few professions available to women. One of the women practising nursing in Merritt was Olla Standish, the first head matron of the Nicola Valley General Hospital.

Standish was born in Ontario and grew up in Alberta, initially studying to become a teacher. After a change of heart, she moved to Vancouver to complete her nursing education at Vancouver General Hospital. She excelled in her studies, and was offered the position of Head Operating Nurse at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops in 1911, straight out of nursing school.

“A couple of years later, when the [Nicola Valley] hospital here opened up they were looking for a matron and

they offered her the position, so she took it,” said Cameron Bridge, manager of the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives (NVMA).

Her medical peers were not the only ones impressed by her; it is said that when George B. Armstrong laid eyes on her while she was riding a horse, he was equally smitten by her and impressed with her horsemanship. After a short period of courtship the couple was married in LaCombe, Alberta in January 1913. They had two children, George Standish Armstrong and Kathleen Armstrong, and while Standish stayed involved in the medical community by becoming the President of the Merritt Red Cross Society during World War I, her new role would be that of a stay-at-home mother.

“Especially back in those days, you became a nurse until you get married. It was a profession for women that

Continued Page 23

you do until you got married and had kids. Then you were expected to be a stay-at-home mother,” added Bridge.

Olla Standish’s married bliss came to an abrupt end in 1929, when she returned home from a visit to Vancouver to find out that her husband had died after their house caught on fire. Suddenly, she had to add entrepreneur to her professional accomplishments, as she took over leadership of the Armstrong General Store after

woman, and she was highly regarded,” noted Bridge.

Tragedy struck the Armstrong family again on June 11, 1948, when Olla Standish died from being electrocuted after a reading lamp fell into the tub as she was taking a bath. Her son George found her after she had not come to work that day. Hundreds of Merrittonians paid their respects at her funeral with the entire Trinity Church and adjoining school room packed, according to the NVMA.

her husband’s death. Standish led the store successfully through the Great Depression and was known as a great leader.

“She was a fantastic business

While nursing has changed over time to become a career for all people as opposed to only a placeholder until marriage and parenthood, one things seems to still be the same. Nurses often work in the background and don’t get the recognition they deserve, and are not nearly as visible as other professions in the medical field. This was the case for Olla Standish as well; she was an accomplished professional and still remained somewhat invisible. No photos exist of her, museum records only show that she was described as a very tall and regal woman.

“We don’t have any photos of her. Her son, George S. Armstrong, donated a lot of photos, but none of his mother,” noted Bridge.

Standish was the First Matron of the Nicola Valley General Hospital, which was the valley’s healthcare centre from 1912 until 1964. Photo/Nicola Valley Museum and Archives

‘She was a fantastic business woman, and she was highly regarded.’

Merritt MuseuM’s CaMeron Bridge

B.C. nurses ratify new three year agreement

The Health Employers Association and Nurses’ Bargaining Association (NBA) tentatively reached a deal in March, ratifying it at the end of April. Photo/SJ Objio

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Nurses in B.C. have ratified a new agreement with the provincial government, securing a three-year deal that spans from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2025.

The tentative deal that was reached between the Health Employers Association and Nurses’ Bargaining Association (NBA), which represents over 51,000 registered, psychiatric and licensed practical nurses in the province, in late

Continued Page 25

Through many challenges, BC’s nurses continue providing care at the bedside, in the community and in long-term care

During National Nursing Week, and always, let’s recognize the extraordinary work of nurses who care for all of us.

Marius Auer

NATIONAL NURSES WEEK

March of this year was ratified last week.The deal was made official after 40,526 BC Nurses Union (BCNU) members cast a ballot, with 61 per

shortage and heavy workloads.”

The majority of the nurses in the bargaining association are represented by the BCNU, with the rest backed by the Health Sciences Association, the Union of Psychiatric Nurses, the Hospital Employees’ Union and the British Columbia General Employees’ Union. While nurses work predominantly in hospitals and health centres, they also practice in long-term care facilities, home support services, and mental health facilities throughout B.C.

NATIONAL NURSING WEEK

May 8 -14

cent of NBA members casting a ballot voting in favour.

“There are many incentives in this new agreement that will help retain the nurses in the system now and attract the nurses we need in the future,” BCNU president Aman Grewal said in a release. “For too long, nurses have been providing patient care amidst a severe nurse

The new deal will see all employees receive a flat increase of 25 cents per hour, plus 3.24 percent retroactive to April 2, 2022 in the first year. Year two will see a 6.75 per cent, retroactive to April 1, 2023. In the contract’s final year, nurses receive a two percent increase, plus a potential cost-of-living adjustment to a maximum of three percent. There are also significant increases to shift premiums, on-call rates, responsibility pay, and isolation travel allowance within the new deal.

In addition to the general wage increase afforded to nurses, the collective agreement includes a wage schedule redesign that provides wage gains, including new increment steps at years 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30.

Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society would like to take this opportunity to thank all the nurses in the Nicola Valley. Nurses work tirelessly to provide the care and attention people need, whenever and wherever they need it. They are put under high stress almost every single day. We all have in one way or another been the patient or the person who is there with a loved one in a medical situation, and experienced the loving care that nurses provide.

Nurses are the forefront of the medical system and their daily contributions are often unrecognized. To our local nurses working with Interior Health, local First Nations, and other practices: THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HARD WORK AND CARE YOU PROVIDE TO OUR COMMUNITY.

Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society

We salute the doctors and healthcare teams whose tireless dedication to our communities have saved countless lives and provided much-needed comfort in this time of dire need.

‘There are many incentives in this new agreement that will help retain the nurses in the system now and attract the nurses we need in the future.’

BC nurses’ union’s aMan grewal

British Columbia Hockey League leaving Hockey Canada

with Hockey Canada. The league hopes to foster more opportunities for players and fans.

“The BCHL sends more players to NCAA Division I teams than all other junior hockey leagues in Canada combined,” said BCHL Chairman Graham Fraser. “During the past season there were 411 BCHL alumni on NCAA rosters, making up nearly a quarter of all Division I college hockey. That is exciting, but we aspire to do more for players and to provide a higher level of hockey for our fans. Under the current system, that’s just not possible.”

Hockey Canada, the national governing body of ice hockey, said in a statement that they “feel strongly that our model for delivering hockey is to the benefit and safety of players, coaches, officials, parents, administrators and volunteers, we recognize that the BCHL and others are free to enjoy the game outside of sanctioned programs.”

Marius Auer

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), a junior-level league which includes the Merritt Centennials and 17 other teams, has announced it will soon cut ties with Hockey Canada, instead

becoming an independent league.

In an announcement on Monday (May 1), league executives said the new direction will allow for the ability to recruit more players to B.C. from across Canada and internationally, as well as offer more routes to professional hockey for its players. The change will take place on June 1, 2023, following what the BCHL said was five years trying to solve ‘key complaints’

The BCHL said it anticipates a higher level of play with the new changes, now being able to recruit U18 players from around the country and beyond. According to the league, under Hockey Canada’s system, U18 players who signed with Major Junior teams in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) are disqualified from playing in American colleges, because the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) labels the CHL a professional league. The changes will also see Commissioner Chris Hebb move

solely into the role of Chief Executive Officer, with Steven Cocker moving into the role of Commissioner.

“We believe U18 players should have two development paths in Canada –Major Junior leading to the National Hockey League (NHL) being one and college-tracking junior leading to a US college and then the NHL being the other. Both are important. Both should be supported,” said BCHL CEO Chris Hebb.

The league noted that it has established a “foundation in all operational areas” for its upcoming 2023/24 season, including risk management, health and safety, education programs, insurance, officials, and governance.

“Our owners and governors are proud of how far we have come in recent years and have a strong desire to continue to grow and make decisions that are in the best interests of young players and families,” added Fraser. “Today, we are entering a new era that will eliminate barriers and change the landscape of junior hockey in Canada.”

Questions remain by many around what the move will mean in terms of referees, and how teams will make trades with other Junior A leagues in Canada and the U.S. The BCHL said in its announcement that the changes will bring new events, more NCAA and U Sports scholarships, a larger player pool, and higher standards.

For more information, visit the BCHL website at www.bchl.ca.

Panthers start ultimate frisbee year off with podium win

in player confidence, throwing ability, and understanding of the game.”

As winter sports come to an end at Merritt Secondary School (MSS), spring sports are blooming. Last year, the MSS ultimate frisbee team excelled in their division, and they are aiming even higher this year.

In the previous year the team won the West Zone Championship, won the Okanagan Championship, and placed sixth in the province. The Panthers started off their 2023 season by placing second in their first tournament, hosted by Okanagan Secondary School in Oliver.

“The MSS ultimate team had a blast playing in the Southern Flights tournament” said coach Taylor Larter. “The tournament was the first chance to see how the team played together, and there was tremendous growth made over the weekend

MSS is a small school, lacking enough players to make separate junior and senior teams like the schools they compete against.

“It was cool to see grade eight students playing alongside grade 12 students and working as a team,” added Larter. “The team’s hard work paid off as they achieved second in the tournament, only losing to the reigning provincial champions!”

Recently, MSS beat Westsyde Secondary School 13–1. This would have resulted in the West Zone Championship being hosted in Merritt, but, unfortunately, Westsyde had to forfeit for unknown reasons. The West Zone Championship title will be automatically given to the Merritt ultimate team. The Panthers still have lots to accomplish in their season with the Okanagan Championship just around the corner, and hopefully the Provincial Championship, too.

The British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) has announced it will not renew its membership with Hockey Canada, instead becoming an independent league. Photo/Herald File

The MSS ultimate frisbee team after placing second in their first tournament of 2023.

Photo/ Jayden Etchart

Rae Bassett HERALD JUNIOR REPORTER

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

With the weather permitting more and more outdoor activities, mountain bikes cruising local trails and bike parks are a common sight in the Nicola Valley. Preparing for another season on the trails, the Merritt Mountain Biking Association (MMBA) has a number of new initiatives on the go.

The MMBA maintains and has helped in the establishment of dozens of kilometers of biking trail in the Nicola Valley, providing prime outdoor recreation opportunities for locals and visitors alike. One of the club’s more popular trails, Iron Mountain’s Too Much Information, will have its flow trail extended with over two kilometers of machine-groomed trail with varying difficulty features.

The club also maintains the bike skills park at Central Park, which they keep tidy and ready to ride with the help of volunteers and local youth. Monthly work bees give youth the opportunity to work one hour for one entry in a draw for a brand new Marin San Quentin, courtesy of Breathebikes.

Youth can participate in cleaning and maintenance work throughout the sum -

mer for multiple entries before the year end wrap up in September.

“Most of it is sweeping, and some shoveling, of the surface gravel to keep the park smoother and safer” said Travis Fehr, a director with the MMBA, adding with a laugh, “we all know that crashing on gravel isn’t fun.”

Along with the opportunity for work, the MMBA also looked to highlight a new partnership between Breathebikes, Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society, and Merritt Secondary School that provides bikes to youth for a number of educational opportunities and events. Along with the involvement the MMBA has with the high school’s physical education program, the club’s president hosts beginner rides every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in varying locations.

Through Tourism Nicola Valley, a marketing organizations that now holds the city’s Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) designation, the MMBA also recently secured grant funding to replace and install signage at its Sugarloaf Mountain, Iron Mountain, and Coutlee Plateau trail systems.

For more information on the MMBA, including event times and locations, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook. com/bikemerritt.

Mountain Biking Association on the move in Merritt Speedway season quickly approaching

der bombers, a new ‘Mini Stock’ class has been added to the fun. A press release by the Merritt Speedway said despite the ‘mini’ name, the new cars are sure to provide as much entertainment as the larger model cars.

“We have had some wonderful developments in the club,” said the club in a release. “The long awaited arrival of the mini stock class. These cars are heavily modified four cylinders which will rival the track’s fastest lap times.”

Along with the addition of a number of new small-but-mighty mini stock cars, young racers will have more opportunity to get behind the wheel and learn valuable life skills through sports with the addition of a new youth focused program.

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt Speedway is gearing up for its 2023 season, bringing back high octane dirt track action to fans throughout the spring and summer, along with some new additions to the racing lineup.

Along with the four current late model, street stock, four cylinder bomber, and junior four cylin -

“New to Merritt Speedway is a class for our very young drivers, specifically ages 5 to 13,” added the release. “We are currently calling this the ‘Quarter Sprints.’ This new class is being made up of the exciting Mini Sprint cars which are scaled down versions of The Outlaws and a little smaller car, the Quarter Midgets.This is going to a sure fan favourite as these young girls and boys get to battle it out.”

This year’s racing season at the Merritt Speedway begins on May 20 and 21, with two season opener day races. For more information, including the full 2023 season schedule, visit www. merrittspeedway.ca, or email merrittspeedway@ outlook.com.

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WEL COME YOU

Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Ser vice Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre)

Sunday ser vice 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899

Ser vice Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p m

Sacred Hear t Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St • 250-378-3772

Ser vice Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a m.

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Ser vice Time ever y Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave ( The Cadet Hall)

Sunday Ser vice Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Max well St • 250-378-9502

Ser vice Time: Sundays 9:00 am and 11:00 am

A number of trails and riding spots in the Nicola Valley are maintained by the Merritt Mountain Biking Association and its dedicated volunteers. Photo/Herald File

The Merritt Speedway is B.C’s fastest dirt track, drawing large crowds for high octane races. A number of improvements and additions come this season. Photo/Herald File

CLASSIFIEDS

Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday.

To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com

PLEAS E RECY CLE THIS NE WSPAPE R

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting EDUCATION COORDINATOR

The Coldwater Indian Band is seeking an individual to fill the Education Coordinator position. The Education Coordinator is responsible for the planning , administration and coordination of Coldwater Indian Band Education Programs and Ser vices and repor ts to the Band Administrator This position will be wor king from the Mer ritt Office

Responsibilities and Duties

Planning – Annual and Long-ter m Education Plan for Coldwater Indian Band, member ship and as directed.

Human Resource – Super vises and valuates the perfor mance of anyone with direct repor ting relations to the Depar tment when applicable

F inancial – Develops Education Program budgets in consultation with the Band Administrator and administer s the budgets as approved by Chief and Council and all other associated duties.

Policy – Administer s the approved Post-Secondar y Education Policy

Liaison and Representation – Par ticipates as Ex-Officio when required on the Band School SAC; Represents the band in negotiating the Local Education Agreement; Attends School District 58 meetings where applicable; Liaises with Post-Secondar y Institutions/Schools in suppor t of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Policy and programs; Liaises with SD #58 re: L.E.A., F.N.A.C, and staff where applicable; Advocates for Coldwater students within School District 58 & students attending different PostSecondar y Educational Institutions; Liaise with Indian Ser vices Canada in suppor t of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Depar tment programs

Post-Secondar y Program Administration – Administer s the Post-Secondar y program as per Job Description.

General Education Administration – Administer s all per tinent Education Program funding through Xyntax; Develop and maintain individual student confidential files; Maintains records of all Education programs, ser vices and funding associated with this depar tment; Keeps the Band Administrator infor med of sensitive and impor tant issues and events in relation to the operation of the Education Programs; etc.

Position Qualifications:

• Post-Secondar y Diploma (prefer minimum Business or Public Administration diploma)

• OR an equivalent combination of post secondar y education and directly related wor k experience.

Proposal writing an asset

Lifestyle consistent with the impor tance of the responsibilities of the position

• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, tact, discretion and sound judgement

• Demonstrated commitment to fiscal management

• Superior communication skills, written and oral

• Wor king knowledge of Xyntax an asset

• Knowledge of Nlaka’pamux and Coldwater Community an asset

• Ability to organize and manage wor kload

• Good negotiation skills (Local Education Agreements)

Able to wor k independently and in a team environment

Satisfactor y Criminal Records check

• Valid Driver’s License and Reliable vehicle

Nooaitch Indian Band

2954 Shackelly Road Ph: 250-378-6141

Merritt BC V1K 1N9 Fax: 250-378-3699

JOB POSTING - PROJECTS FINANCIAL LEAD

Nooaitch Indian Band is seeking to hire a Projects Financ al Lead as described below Remuneration for this position will be based on qualifications of the successful applicant Persons interested in this position should email an application letter and resume to the following email address: bandmanager@nooaitchband ca All applications are very much appreciated, but only the most qualified applicants will be contacted This posting will remain in effect until the position is filled Thank you for your interest in this position

DUTIES OF THE PROJECTS FINANCIAL LEAD

• Overseeing projects relating to cash flow, financia reporting, and revenue and expenses

• Assisting departments in creating and managing forecasts and budgets for various projects

• Gathering and analyzing data to identify areas for improvement and/or develop solutions to keep projects on budget and on t me

• Helping the project team in establishing appropriate inter nal controls and project management

• Supporting design and execution of the implementation process, including business requirement gathering, process documentation and solutions design

• Implementing change management strategies ensuring stakeholders and teams are trained and adjusted to the new process

PROJECTS FINANCIAL LEAD SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

The Projects Financial Lead needs to be both an analytical and effective team member able to balance scheduling with data gathering and budget analysis Candidates for this pos tion should have appropriate training in a related field along with previous financial management experience and/or the fol owing ski ls:

• Financial analysis - The finance project coordinator needs ability in financia management, including gathering and analyzing data, organizing reports, and presenting findings to the project team and band administration staff

• Budgeting and forecast ng - The financia project manager develops budgets and creates forecasts to support projects related to cash flow and revenue

• Team coordination - Coordinating and financial updating project teams is essential for the financial project coord nator, as projects may be subject to variations in required activit es and funding levels

• T ime management- The financial project coordinator assists the project team n developing project schedules, dentifying milestones and deliverables and ensuring that projects are completed on time based on effective funding levels and reporting requirements

• Communicat on skills - The financ al project coordinator is a skil ed communicator, able to report to band admin stration as needed and clearly communicate with team members across departments

CORBETT L AKE LODGE is seeking to immediately fill positions for housekeeper s and food and beverage worker s and guest ser vices staf f

casual/on call positions available. Competitive wages of fered.

Please write to us with an attached resume at corbettlake@gmail.com (no phone calls please).

BA I L L I E H O U S E A S S I S TA N T - 3 PO S I T I O N S I f yo u e n j oy m e et i n g a n d ta l k i n g to p e o p l e f ro m a l l a ro u n d t h e wo r l d t h e n t h i s m a y b e t h e j o b fo r yo u T h e B a i l l i e H o u s e h o s t s t h e M e r r i t t V i s i to r I n fo r m a t i o n C e nt re We a re a l s o a h i s to r i c s i te We c u r re nt l y h a ve 3 j o b o p e n i n g s N o e x p e r i e n ce i s re q u i re d a s we a re w i l l i n g to t ra i n t h e s u cce s s f u l a p p l i ca nt s To u r i s m V i s i to r I n fo r m a t i o n C o u n s e l l o r t ra i n i n g w i l l b e p rov i d e d D u t i e s i n c l u d e g i v i n g v i s i to r s i n fo r m a t i o n a b o u t M e r r i t t a n d t h e N i co l a Va l l ey, g i v i n g s i te to u r s , s i te m a i nte n a n ce i nve s t i g a t i n g v i nta g e i te m s a n d reta i l s a l e s

Hours: 32 h rs per week Will include some weekend wor k Wa g e s : $19 0 0 p e r h o u r To s u b m i t re s u m e p l e a s e d ro p o f f a t t h e B a i l l i e H o u s e o r e m a i: l b a i l l i e h o u s e @ g m a i l co m

Scw’exmx Child & Family Services Society Employment Opportunity FINANCE MANAGER

Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society (SCFSS) s family-centered and guided by nle?kepmx and sy lx trad tional know edge and principles

SCFSS utilizes prevention and protection strategies with the collective goal to keep children with their fam lies and communities SCFSS recogn zes h storical challenges and is gu ded by traditional strength and wisdom to bu ld fam ly and commun ty capacity in a monumental shift from protection to prevention

As an Indigenous organization serving the nle?kepmx and syilx communities, SCFSS prioritizes the hiring of nle?kepmxand syilx community members Following commun ty member priority and pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to qualified appl cants of Ind genous ancestry

Status: Ful -time | Per manent

Hours: 35 hours per week | 8:30 - 4:30 | Monday – Fr day

Wage: Start ng wage commensurate with experience|Range: $44 40$62 86

Closing Date: May 11, 2023 (3:00 pm)

Benefits: Comprehens ve Benefits Package | Public Serv ce Pension Plan Location: Merritt, BC

The Opportunity:

The Finance Manager effect vely manages the provision of financ al services, accurate accounting and payroll, risk management services, adm nistrat on of pension and benefit p ans, and general administrative support for the organization These services include budgeting, financ al planning, report ng and support for aud t functions The Finance Manager promotes the achievement of the goals and object ves of Scw’exmx Ch ld and Family Serv ces Society by helping employees understand financ al infor mation, prov d ng accurate, confidential nfor mat on, and providing input to all planning cycles The Finance Manager provides leadership to the Finance team, including per for mance management, human resources, and professional gu dance

APPLY NOW

Full job description available upon request

• Apply now on our webs te [https://www scwexmx com/employment-opportunities]

• Comp ete the application form on our website, attach your cover etter and resume

• We thank al candidates for their interest, but only those selected for screening w l be contacted

Success for ALL Learners, Today and Tomorrow

CURRENT JOB OPPOR TUNITIES

We are currently inviting applications for the position(s) of:

Reliable Towing Merritt Ltd.

2900 Pooley Ave

the following vehicle will be auctioned on May 18 2023 for non payment

2013 Ford F-150

VIN 1FTMF1EF2DKF45226

Debtor: Dirk Venter

Amount owing: 2,980.51

Houses For Rent

Small 3 Bedroom House No Pets, No Smoking, No Par t ying $1400 per month + utilities

Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at https://www makeafuture ca/bcschools-and-districts/nicola-similkameen-school-district-no-58/ All applicants must provide a cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references for each position they want to be considered .

Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted

Journey’s Into Tomorrow

Transition House EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Casual Support Worker

SUDOKU

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

Position Duties:

Under the direction of the Program Director the successful applicant w ll carry out the Vision and Mission of Jour ney’s Into Tomorrow Transition House and provides support to women and their children in a nonjudgemental and confidential atmosphere

Duties Include the following:

• To create an atmosphere of safety and trust by prov ding confidential and non-judgementa support

• To assist cl ents recognize their rights and responsibilities

• To prov de necessary referrals and/or case plann ng with other organizations/agencies

• Intake procedures including assessing e igibility

• Handle cris s calls and to provide emotional support, infor mation and referrals over the phone

• Record keep ng in compliance with the Privacy Act and Jour ney’s Into Tomorrow policies, as well as ma ntain statistical activity reports

• Clean ng dut es to inc ude, but limited to, dust ng, sweep ng, vacuuming mopping disinfecting etc

Position Quallficatlons and Requirements:

• College Cert ficate in the Soc al Services discipline or two years’ experience In the Soc al Services Sector

• Crisis and Suicide Intervent on/Prevention

• Food safe, Level 1 First Aide

• Effective and respectful interpersonal communication ski ls and the ability to work cooperat vely with colleagues

• Reliable and self motivated

• Maintains profess onal standards of practice inc uding ethical boundaries and protecting the confidentia ity of the House, fami ies and colleagues

• Reliable vehicle and valid BC Dr ver’s License

• Complies with the Criminal Records Review Act

Employment type: On call casual

Start date: Immediately

Wage: Dependent on qualifications and previous experience

Please fax or email resumes to:

250-378-6172 Email: transitionhouse@coldwaterband org

Only selected applicants will be contacted for interviews

1. Midway between south and southeast

4. Fathers

9. Wine grape

14. Al Bundy’s wife

15. Organic compound

16. Venezuelan state

17. Interest term

18. Experts

20. Central cores of stems

22. Smooth and glossy

23. One-time S. Korean city

1. An involuntary and abnormal muscular contraction

2. Philly’s rail service

3. Leaves a place

4. No longer be a part in

5. Guitar players use them

6. Cease to exist

7. General’s assistant (abbr.)

8. Shaking of the earth

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29. It cools your home

30. Oh, God!

31. Intestinal pouches

33. Men

37. Popular English soccer team (abbr.)

38. Former CIA

39. Arrange in steps

41. A baglike structure in a plant or animal

12. The creation of beautiful or significant things

13. Affirmative

19. Pie _ __ mode

21. Nonclerical

24. Inspirational football player Hamlin

25. Learning environment

26. Khoikhoi peoples

27. Bring out or develop

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43. Dog-__: to mark a page

44. Stop moving

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49. Of I

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51. Songs sung to a lover

55. Charges

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59. Where to park a boat

60. One who values reason

64. Slang for cigarette

65. Sailboats

66. Actress Zellweger

67. Screen material

68. Country music legend Haggard

69. Puts together in time

70. When you hope to arrive

56. Ordain

57. Breed of small cattle

59. Very small period of time (abbr.)

60. Revolutions per minute

61. They __

62. Longtime ESPN anchor Bob

63. A place to stay