Issuu

TEDDY BEAR TOSS

ADVENTURES IN TOYLAND - LOVE TO DANCE HITS THE STAGE

Photos/Jake Courtepatte

An article on page 5 of the Nov. 27, 2025 issue (Land Dispute Could Be Nearing End ) contained misleading information that Upper Nicola Band is in dispute with Douglas Lake Ranch over land commonage.

The Upper Nicola Band’s claim is with the Federal Government of Canada, not with Douglas Lake Ranch. Douglas Lake Ranch is not a party to this negotiation, nor is it the counterpart in the compensation or title discussions described in the article.

The Merritt Herald regrets the error.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT HITS THE RIGHT NOTES

PHOTO/KASS HAGGSTROM

Holiday decorators came by the Merritt Civic Centre in droves over the weekend for the Country Christmas Craft Fair.

PHOTO/JAKE COURTEPATTE

21 TREES UP FOR GRABS

IN UNB FUNDRAISER

• $250 - Lottery ticket tree donation – Anonymous

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

It’s that time of year again for Upper Nicola’s Christmas Tree Enchantment fundraiser, with 21 lucky winners finding presents under this year’s trees each with a unique theme.

From Nov. 29 – Dec. 8, tickets are just one dollar each at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Quilchena, with 90,000 in total to take home the tree valued anywhere from $700 to $3,000.

The popularity of the annual holiday contest continues to grow after last year’s sold-out fundraiser.

“We have

expanded the printed tickets,” said UNB Band Administrator Collette Sunday.

“Last year we sold out at 70,000, and unfortunately had to turn people away. So with that we brought it up to 90,000, and we’ll see what we do this year.”

This year’s trees have something for everyone on your list, including a living room tree, tool tree, gamer’s tree, mini vacation tree, boys toy tree, girls toy tree, ice fishing tree, kitchen tree, Nicola Valley adventure tree, gift card tree, money tree, lotto tree, grocery tree, lucky 7 tree, BBQ tree, golf tree,

book tree, B.C. adventure tree, deep freezer tree and washer & dryer tree. All funds raised will benefit UNB Syilx (Okanagan) Language, Youth & Elders, as well as new gym equipment for the under-construction Quilchena C ommunity Centre, set for completion in early 2026.

“Last year we had four areas (for funding), this year we have four once again,” said Sunday. “We are again going to support the Okanagan language program, provide support to our youth and elders programs, and the fourth this year is going

to be for our community workout gym.

“It’s always nice to help all of our families of Upper Nicola, to have children living on the reserve be eligible to receive these funds to help them live a positive lifestyle.”

Ticket sales:

Nov. 29 – Dec. 4, 10a.m. - 6p.m. Dec. 5, 10a.m – 8p.m. Dec. 6 – 7, 10a.m. - 6pm. Dec. 8, 10a.m.-12p.m.

The draw for the trees will be held on Dec. 8 at 1p.m. Any questions can be directed to cte@uppernicola. com.

• $250 basket – Black’s Pharmacy – Blaine and Danielle Martens

• $125 basket – Pharmasave – Lynn Touliani

• Coco’s Chicken and Sushi – Chris Kim

• Mar-King – Shacken Development Ltd

• Miss Vicki’s – Vicki Hansen

• Pet Valu

• The Rusty Buckle – Jenn Biddlecombe

• Sasquatch Creations – Candice Pollard

• Carol Fulcher

• Caryl Moffat

• Cathy Cox-Neill

• Grimshire Apiaries – Diana Grimshire

• Glass Creations by Ellen – Ellen Miller

Merritt & District

Hospice Society

PHOTO/UNB LIVE

The girls toy tree is a popular prize of the Upper Nicola Christmas Tree Enchantment fundraiser.

NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT

ART-TASTIC!

This week’s submission was by Thanumi Jayasinghe, 5 years, who drew her teacher.

Community members, teachers and students... Submit your artwork to newsroom@ merrittherald. com for a chance to be featured in print each week! Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis.

DIXON: SO MUCH TO DO, SO LITTLE TIME? TRY THIS

BONNIE DIXON

Healthy Conversations

Is that what you’re telling yourself these days? So much to do, so little time?

Actually we all have the same amount of time. So if you’re pulling your hair out, grinding your teeth, or feeling cranky and put upon… stop it. Truly—pause right here.

For the next month, I want you to try something new. You’re going to be okay. In fact, you might even enjoy yourself. Start by writing down all of your “supposed-to-dos.” Every task, event, outing, or obligation that’s swirling around in your mind. Then grab a cup of tea, sit down with your list, and ask two simple questions:

1) Do I want to?

2) Do I have to?

You may be surprised by how many things fall into neither category. Holiday seasons and busy times tend to make us believe we must do everything for everyone. But what if you didn’t? What if you chose only the people, places, and events that truly make you smile? What if you prepared only the foods you want to prepare and went only to the gatherings where you genuinely want to be?

This is tough love—for yourself.

I can already hear the objections: “I can’t because…” followed by a long list of reasons. But most of those “reasons” are habits, guilt, or old expectations you’re allowed to release.

If you need a little backup, pick up Mel Robbins’ new Let Them Theory book. It’s a game-changer.

What is the Let Them Theory?

At its core, it’s beautifully simple: Let Them:

Stop trying to manage other people’s reactions, choices, or behaviour. Let people be who they are, think what they think, and do what they do. You don’t have to fix, explain, or control it. Let Me:

Shift the focus back to yourself. What do you want? How do you want to feel? What is within your control? Choose the actions, boundaries, and responses that support your well-being.

As you practice this, you’ll notice something remarkable: when you stop overfunctioning, the people around you often shift too.

Try it for one month—and watch what happens. PS Look up this funny Bob Newhart clip on YouTube : STOP IT.

This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844877-1163 for additional information.

VIEWPOINT

LET’S NOT BE

CRUDE ABOUT OIL

Editor,

The current impasse between advocates of a crude oil pipeline between Alberta and those opposed to the pipeline to the West Coast could be settled amenably and economically by building a crude oil refinery at the coast. This would sell refined petroleum products to the world - not crude.

An oil refinery would create many more jobs than a crude oil loading terminal. Moreover, a spill of refined petroleum would almost certainly be less harmful to the environment than a crude oil spill. The recent spill of aviation fuel into Kamloops Lake would have been much worse had this been crude oil.

Here is a chance for a win-win. Let’s be sure to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

REMEMBERING A LOCAL INVENTOR

Editor,

Re: ‘Gearing-Edge: The Wild Wild Onion spins again’ - Nov. 12, 2015

Editor’s note: This article tells the story of the onion windmill at Lions Memorial Park, local man Heinz Lange’s invention.

Heinz and I met in 1979. That was at the time when my family and I wanted to immigrate to Canada. Unfortunately, I came across a scammer who lived on Vancouver Island. He was only interested in my architect’s plans, not in our emigration. He never received the plans. Heinz was a great help! This man was imprisoned in Germany for several years. Unfortunately, our emigration would collapse as a result. We wrote letters to each other for a few years, but at some point the correspondence stopped. Many years later I found out that Heinz died in 2000 and his wife Lydia in September 2017. Heinz proudly told me about his invention, which I thought was simply great. If I remember correctly, his first system was at an airport, where it provided runway lighting. He had major heart problems, which didn’t make his life any easier. We sometimes talked on the phone. His German had become very English because he had lived in Canada for decades. I can only say good things about him and his family. It’s a shame we no longer had contact. Kind regards from good old Germany.

– Udo Lange Germany

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less.

Email letters to: newsroom@merrittherald.com.

HIGH GAS PRICES CONTINUE

Merritt residents are paying the price at the pumps when it comes to fuel, despite the continual drop in price of oil.

While the cost of gas in the city has been steadily dropping, prices have still been as high as 11 cents a litre over those posted in Kamloops.

Last week, the price shifted from 89.4 cents a litre to 80.4 cents by the weekend, still more than the 69.4 cents per litre offered at one station in Kamloops.

And although gas station owners and employees have been taking flak from motorists, one local employee points out that it isn’t the gas station that sets the prices.

“It all comes from our head office when we get to change our prices,” explains Petro-Canada’s Dave Marklund.

By the weekend gas was steady from Smithers to Vernon at 79.9 cents and reaching as cheap as 69.9 in Abbotsford.

Date:

– Barie Sanford Brookmere

The City of Merritt will be holding a Public Hearing for the Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2409, 2025, and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2413, 2025, at the December 16, 2025, Special Meeting of the Council.

OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN: In the fall of 2023, the Government of British Columbia passed legislation (Bill 44) known as the Local Government Housing Initiatives to shift to a more proactive planning approach, enabling more housing to be built in the right places, faster. As part of this, municipalities are required to update their OCPs by December 31, 2025, based on the needs identified in their interim Housing Needs Assessments (HNAs).

Bylaw No. 2409, 2025 proposes to amend the current Official Community Plan Bylaw 2336, 2022, bringing it into compliance with the Provincial legislation.

ZONING BYLAW: Bylaw No. 2413, 2025 proposes to amend the Zoning Bylaw 2284, 2020 by introducing a new R2 –Mobile Home Zone, for the purpose of free-hold mobile homes on smaller lots. However, no parcels will be rezoned at this time. Additionally, a site-specific Special Regulation clause is created within the current R1 – Low Density Residential Zone to bring the existing mobile homes on Douglas Street, Houston Street, and Telemon Place in Diamondvale into conformance with the Zoning Bylaw.

PROVIDE INPUT: Input is welcomed at the Public Hearing on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6.00 pm. Speak in person by signing up at the hearing, or by providing a written submission to the Corporate Officer at info@merritt.ca prior to noon, December 12, 2025, or by mail to the Corporate Officer, City of Merritt, PO Box 189, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8, to be received before the conclusion of the hearing.

Please note that the Council will not receive further submissions from the public concerning this application after the conclusion of the public hearing. It is the responsibility of the submitter to ensure that materials are received prior to the close of the public hearing.

MORE INFORMATION: A copy of the proposed Bylaw amendments may be viewed Monday to Friday 8:30am to 12:00pm and 1:15pm to 4:30pm at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, from December 5 to December 16, 2025, or online at www merritt ca

PUBLIC NOTICE

Proposed Temporary Use Permit

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025 | 6:00PM |

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 494 of the Local Government Act, the following proposed Temporary Use Permit Application will be presented to the City of Merritt Council for consideration at the Special Meeting of the Council scheduled on December 16, 2025.

TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATION

TUP 2025-002:

ADDRESS: 2751 Nicola Avenue

APPLICANT: Xiaoling Qian

PURPOSE: to permit Community Care Facility, Major

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The property is currently used as a Motel, permitted as a Principal Use in C4 – Corridor Commercial Zone. The proposed use of the property is for Community Care Facility, Major, as per Zoning Bylaw 2284, 2020, for a temporary period. A presentation of the proposal was made by Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society at the Regular Council Meeting of October 28, 2025. The recording of the meeting can be viewed at www.youtube.com/cityofmerrittmeetings.

PROVIDE INPUT: Input is welcomed at the Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6.00 pm. Speak in person by signing up at the meeting, or by providing a written submission to the Corporate Officer at info@merritt.ca prior to noon, December 12, 2025, or by mail to the Corporate Officer, City of Merritt, PO Box 189, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8, to be received before the conclusion of the meeting.

Please note that the Council will not receive further submissions from the public concerning this application after the conclusion of the public meeting. It is the responsibility of the submitter to ensure that materials are received prior to the close of the public meeting.

MORE INFORMATION: A copy of the proposed application may be viewed Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, starting December 5, 2025 until December 16, 2025, or online at any time at www merritt ca

Disposition of Land

PURSUANT to sections 26 and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Merritt hereby gives notice of its intention to dispose, by way of lease, of Lot 1 Airport Road legally described as PID: 003-084-141Lot A District Lot 121 and of Sections 23 and 24 Township 91 Kamloops Division Yale District Plan 33801 Except Plans 37919, KAP70265, KAP77831 and KAP92967, as shown on the map. The lessee intends to build an airport hanger on the land. The disposition of the land is by way of lease to Mike King, RMT Construction, for a term of 5 years with renewal options in 5 year increments for a total of 25 years. The rent is $20,254 annually for the initial term.

QUESTIONS? Contact Dave Zakall, Director of Community Services: dzakall@merritt.ca or 250-378-4224.

CITY HALL | COUNCIL CHAMBERS 2185 VOGHT STREET, MERRITT, BC

CHRISTMAS PARADE 2025

WEBC Partnership • Funded by Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy

Key Messages: This Workshop is designed to provide Women Entrepreneurs with practical strategies to achieve success without sacrificing their well-being. Focusing on understanding rest, creating boundaries, and changing their mindset of work.

Date: December 17, 2025 th

Location: Valley Graze Cafe Time: 10:30am - 1:30pm

Location: Valley Graze

Time:

- 1:30pm

Call to Register: 250.378.3923 or scan code RSVP by December 13, 2025 th

Date: December 17, 2025 th

Location: Valley Graze Cafe Time: 10:30am - 1:30pm

In recognition of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day

Call to Register: 250.378.3923

WINNERS

Best Overall: Merritt Stock Car Association

Runner up - Murray GMSanta

Most Original: The Grinch

Runner up - Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Most Enthusiastic: Nicola Valley Search and Rescue

Runner up - Merritt Centennials

Best Lights: Merritt Ready Mix

Runner up - Merritt Stock Car Association

Best – Other – Individual: The Grinch AKA Christopher Jones

Runner up - Patrick Cullen

Best Large Business: K’en T’em Limited Partnership

Runner up - Klassen Group

Best Small Business: Breathe Bikes

Runner up - Murray GMSanta

Best Government Agency/ Organization: City of Merritt

Runner up - Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Operations continued on page 14

CHRISTMAS PARADE 2025

Best Youth Group/Team/ Organization or School: Grasslands 4-H club

Runner up – Tumbleweed Playschool Society

(Ciitxw Nlaka’pamuk Assembly) Runner up - Angels Animal Rescue Society Best Community Club / Organization/Team: Merritt Stock Car

RULES & REGULATIONS

1. With a minimum purchase of $20 you will receive one entry form from the store clerk, up to 20 entry forms ($400) per purchase. The entry form must have a MH stamp or the business stamp, or entry will be invalid.

2. Be sure to bring a pen so you can fill in the entry then, or you can bring your entry back at a later date.

3. Boxes will be provided at the stores to drop off your entry.

4. All prizes awarded in Gift Certificates. 1st Place: $800 2nd Place: $450, 3rd Place: $200. WINNERS WILL BE DRAWN FROM ALL COMPLETED ENTRY FORMS RECEIVED BY DEC. 20, 2025 AT NOON. Prizes must be accepted as awarded, no cash value.

5. There is no limit to the total number of entries.

6. The winners must be 19 years of age or older.

7. Double entries if you purchase a food bank donation from one of the local participating businesses.

8. Final draw to be made December 22, 2025.

Shopping local benefits both the community and the shopper. Here’s why it matters:

• Supports Local Economy: Local businesses reinvest in the community, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.

• Builds Community: Shopping local fosters connections and strengthens the community’s identity.

• Reduces Environmental Impact: Local businesses often source products nearby, cutting down on transportation and packaging waste.

• Ensures Unique Offerings: Local shops

kind products and personalized service.

• Keeps the Community Vibrant: Thriving

When you donate a non-perishable food item at any participating Passport to Christmas business, you’ll receive double stamps—and you’ll be making a real difference for local families right here in the Nicola Valley.

The Nicola Valley & District Food Bank is always in need of essentials, not only everyday food items but also things that help fill their Christmas hampers—items that add comfort, dignity, and joy during what can be a difficult time for many.

Your generosity goes far beyond a single item. By donating, you:

• Help ensure vulnerable individuals and families have access to nutritious meals.

• Support the Food Bank in preparing holiday hampers that bring warmth and hope.

• Strengthen our community by standing together and caring for our neighbours.

• Reduce food insecurity during a season when the need is often the greatest.

A simple donation—whether it’s a can of soup, a bag of pasta, baby items, or holiday treats—goes directly to those who need it most. Every act of kindness adds up, and together, we can make the holidays brighter for everyone in our community.

Give a little, gain a lot, and let’s make this Christmas season one of generosity and goodwill in the Nicola Valley.

BASS COAST 2026 RELEASES FIRST WAVE OF LINEUP

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Bass Coast is returning in 2026 with its signature electronic sounds, led by some of the best DJs that Canada and the United Kingdom have to offer.

The annual Merritt music festival announced its first wave of the 2026 lineup earlier this week, which runs July 9-13.

“The 2026 lineup celebrates both genre diversity and the art of DJing,” said Bass Coast Curator and Talent Buyer Max Ulis. “This lineup features artists who are not only innovative producers but true selectors who are masters at pacing, energy, and taking the crowd on a journey.”

Headlining this year’s crop of talent is Daphni, an electronic DJ project of Canadian artist Dan Snaith, also known as Caribou. Snaith is a former Grammynominated composer for Best Dance/ Electronic Album under his Caribou moniker, and has been releasing projects as Daphni since as early as 2012.

His new album ‘Butterfly’ is set to release in February 2026, and has already been named to Pitchfork’s ‘Best

DEVELOPMENT OF A PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN

Application #: TMC-ROW AND FACILITIES IVMP-2026

Applicant: Trans Mountain Corporation (TMC), 7815 Shellmont Street, Burnaby BC V5A 4S9

Email: info@transmountain.com Toll-free info: 1.866.514.6700

In accordance with the British Columbia’s Pest Management Act and Regulations, TMC is required to develop a Pest Management Plan (PMP) (for TMC the PMP is referred to as the Integrated Vegetation Management Plan (IVMP)).

The IVMP manages problem vegetation, including control of noxious weeds and invasive plants within TMC’s rights-of-way, access roads to its pipeline systems and facilities. In British Columbia, TMC operates the Trans Mountain Pipeline transporting crude oil and refined products from Edmonton, AB to Burnaby, BC. Facilities include pump stations, valve stations, terminals, tank farms and office/maintenance facilities. All facilities are fenced, secure compounds not accessible to the general public.

The pipelines are located below ground and in the proximity to the following communities in British Columbia: Valemount, Albreda, Blue River, Avola, Vavenby, Clearwater, Darfield, McLure, Heffley Creek, Kamloops, Merritt, Kingsvale, Hope, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Sumas, Langley, Surrey, Coquitlam and Burnaby.

These IVMPs have been prepared to replace the existing five-year IVMPs, which expire March 31, 2026 (Facilities) and on May 1, 2026 (ROW). The proposed duration of the IVMPs is from March 31, 2026 to March 31, 2031 (Facilities) and from May 1, 2026 to May 1, 2031 (ROW).

The vegetation management and weed control methods proposed for use include hand-pulling, mowing, trimming, pruning, selective slashing, girdling, geotextile fabric, retaining existing low or self-sustaining ground cover, seeding, fertilization where setbacks permit and tree/shrub plantings. The use of pesticides (herbicides) are intended within the geographic area to which the PMP (IVMP) applies. TMC conducts all work, including pest (herbicide) management, in strict adherence with all applicable Acts and regulations.

The active ingredient names and an example of trade names of the pesticides (herbicides) proposed for use under this plan include aminocyclopyrachlor (Navius VM), aminopyralid (Milestone), Aminopyralid / Metsulfuron methyl (Clearview), Aminopyralid / Metsulfuron-Methyl-Fluroxypyr (Sightline), Imazapyr (Arsenal Powerline), Dicamba (Banvel VM), chlorsulfuron (Telar), Clorosulfuron / aminocyclopyraclor (Truvist), clopyralid (Lontrel 360), dicamba (Vanquish), diflufenzopyr (Overdrive), diuron (Diurex 80 WDG), flumioxazin (Payload), fluroxypyr (Retain B), Fluroxypyr / 2,4D (OcTTain XL), glyphosate (Vantage XRT), glyphosate (Roundup), glyphosate (Roundup Transorb HC), indaziflam (Esplanade SC), MCPA (MCPA Amine 600), mecoprop-P (Mecoprop-P), metsulfuron methyl (Clearview), picloram (Grazon), picloram (Tordon 22K), picloram and 2,4-D (Tordon 101), pyroxasulfone (Torpedo), Pyroxsulam (Simplicity), triclopyr (Garlon XRT), 2,4-D (2,4-D Amine 700), esterified vegetable oil (Hasten adjuvant) and paraffinic oil and alkoxylated alcohol non-ionic surfactants (Gateway adjuvant). Application methods include backpack, power hose and nozzle, stem injection, wick/wipe-on applicator and boom sprayer.

A draft copy of the proposed IVMP and maps of the proposed treatment areas may be reviewed online at https://www.transmountain.com/vegetation-management.

A person(s) wishing to contribute information about a proposed treatment site relevant to the development of the pest management plan may send copies of the information to the applicant at the address above (Trans Mountain Corporation, info@transmountain.com as well as the toll-free info line 1.866.514.6700) within 30 days of the publication of this notice.

New Music’.

“Dan Snaith has built an incredible legacy with Caribou, and Daphni is where he truly lets loose,” said Andrea Graham, co-founder and music director of Bass Coast. “It’s dance music in its most pure and joyful form, and we can’t wait to bring that energy to the festival.”

Graham, known behind the turntables as The Librarian, will once again be spinning her own dubstep tunes as well.

Bringing his own sound from across the pond is England’s Addison Groove, a staple in the UK bass scene, as well as fellow countrymen Hypho and Kahn.

Tickets are already on sale at www. basscoast.ca., as well as a list of announced artists. The full lineup will be announced at a future date.

Now in its eighteenth year, the festival has earned plenty of accolades in its almost two decades, including back-toback titles for ‘Best Boutique Festival in North America’ from DJ Mag, ‘Best Midsize Festival in Canada’ awarded by the Canada Music Awards, and runner-up for ‘Best Music Festival in Vancouver’ by the Georgia Straight Vancouver.

MAN JAILED FOR ASSAULT ON MALL SECURITY GUARD

TIM PETRUK Castanet

A Kamloops man who pulled a knife on a security guard after he was caught stealing shoes from a store at Aberdeen Mall has been ordered to spend nearly a year in prison.

Christian Andrew Richard, 38, was sentenced Thursday in Kamloops provincial court after pleading guilty to charges of assault with a weapon, theft under $5,000 and breach of probation. Court heard an Aberdeen Mall security guard was called to the Marshalls store on Feb. 18 after employees saw Richard attempting to steal a pair of shoes.

methamphetamine when he was 15.

“That has remained steady if not progressed throughout his life,” he said.

“He’s homeless, he’s struggling with addiction. He’s been in the hospital several times for overdose, he’s had

physical injuries.” Kamloops provincial court Judge Stella Frame sentenced Richard to 360 days in jail and 12 months of

probation. Once given credit for time served, he had 162 days remaining as of Thursday. While on probation, Richard will be prohibited from visiting Winners or Aberdeen Mall and from possessing weapons.

BC Timber Sales Kamloops Business Area

INVITATION TO COMMENT - FOREST OPERATIONS MAP

The guard approached Richard outside the store and identified himself as security.

“Mr. Richard said, ‘You can’t touch me,’” Crown prosecutor Evan Goulet said in court. “He pulled a knife from his front pocket and he was waving it back and forth, and he asked [the security guard] if he wanted to get cut.”

The guard backed away and Richard fled with the knife and the stolen shoes.

Richard pleaded guilty in relation to an Aug. 8, 2024, theft in which he was caught stealing $490 worth of merchandise from Winners. I n that case, he

tried to steal clothing, shoes, sunglasses and other items.

According to a mental health report prepared for court, Richard has been diagnosed with p olysubstance use disorder.

“He is not interested in recovery,” Goulet said. “The last that the report notes that he is open to exploring the harm reduction interventions and reducing his substance use.”

Defence lawyer Murray Armstrong said Richard had a very troubled childhood, during which he was abused physically and mentally. He started drinking at 13 and began using opiates and

The public is invited to review and comment on the BC Timber Sales, Kamloops (TKA) Forest Operations Map. The map shows proposed road construction and cut block development under Forest Stewardship Plans #671, #109, and #816 within Forest Development Units in the 100 Mile House, Thompson Rivers, and Cascades Forest Districts. The map will be valid for the operating period from January 5, 2026 to January 5, 2029. During the operating period, the Timber Sales Manager may invite applications for Timber Sale Licenses for the harvesting of cut blocks shown on the map and apply for road permits to construct roads shown on the map.

Comments will be accepted from December 5, 2025 to January 4, 2026 Comments may be submitted directly through fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects, emailed to TKAreferrals@gov.bc.ca, or delivered in-person to the address below during business hours.

The map is available for public review and comment online at fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects or in-person by appointment, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at:

BCTS Kamloops Business Area Office

BC Timber Sales, Kamloops 1265 Dalhousie Dr. Kamloops, B.C., V2C 5Z5 Telephone: 250 371- 6500

If you have questions or require assistance, please contact: TKAreferrals@gov.bc.ca

NO CRIMINALITY IN DEATH OF KAMLOOPS WOMAN

MICHAEL POTESTIO

Castanet

Mounties don’t suspect foul play was involved in the death of a Kamloops woman who was reported missing last week.

Sheri-Lynn Bissonnette, 57, was last seen leaving her home on Wednesday. She was found dead on

Monday morning. Police confirmed Tuesday that Bissonnette’s body was located near Kamloops and said her death is not considered suspicious.

Bissonnette’s family thanked volunteers for their help searching and asked for privacy.

POSITIVE JOKESTER COMING TO MERRITT

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

Get ready to exercise your laughing muscles when internationally-acclaimed comedian Alex Mackenzie comes to town.

The Prince George native, known as ‘Canada’s happiness cheerleader’, will be on t he stage at the Merritt Civic Centre on Jan. 10, 2026 as part of his ‘Never Been Better’ stand-up comedy tour.

“I gave up everything to chase this dream,” said Mackenzie. “And now I get to share that journey with audiences who are chasing their own happiness. It’s the best feeling in the world.”

PHOTO/ALEXTELLSJOKES.COM

Alex Mackenzie is bringing his show to Merritt.

Mackenzie left his six-figure job as a power engineer in 2019 and never looked back, pursuing comedy full time and performing to sold-out theatres across Canada and Australia, including at the Melbourne Comedy Festival. Collectively, his stand-up videos

have amassed more than 100 million views online.

The ‘Never Been Better’Tour is described as Mackenzie’s “most heartfelt and interactive show yet - a night where every performance feels unique and unscripted.

“Through hilarious stories of risk,

reward, and self-belief, Mackenzie reminds audiences that betting on yourself can lead to something truly extraordinary.”

With successful comedy specials like 2025’s ‘Happy Camper’ and ‘An Experiment Called Life’, picked up by Amazon Prime in the US and UK, Mackenzie’s blend of positivity and storytelling has also led to the creation of the popular ‘Hungry for Laughs Comedy Tour’, raising tens of thousands of dollars for local charities across Canada. Tickets for the Jan. 10 show at the Merritt Civic Centre are available at www. a lextellsjokes.com. Showtime is set for 7:30p.m.

PHOTO/RCMP

Sheri-Lynn Bissonnette’s body was found on Dec. 1.

MERRITT COUNTRY CHRISTMAS THANK YOU

The Merritt Country Christmas Committee of Carrie Ware, Kurt Christopherson, Linda Baird, Jean Acason, Angela Duhy, Toni Stewart, Roger White, Tina Etchart, Yvette Baxter & Emma Matusiak would like to THANK OUR SPONSORS:

City of Merritt, Carrie Ware & Company Inc., Hub International Love to Dance Academy, NVIT, Q101, Merritt Herald, Murray Auto Group, Merritt Morning Market, 2nd Avenue Signs, Greg Hewton and Family, Nicola Valley Arts Council, McDonald’s and Just Jerry Kareokee.

SPECIAL THANKS goes out to the City of Merritt staff, the supporters, participants, and all those volunteers who helped make the 2025 Merritt Country Christmas a great success.

The ratio of alcohol to blood in the body is called the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). Two people drinking the same amount of alcohol can have drastically different BACs. Body weight, drink strength, amount of food in the stomach, time between drinks and even gender can all affect a person’s BAC and level of impairment. While a BAC of .08 is typically the legal limit, impairment can occur at much lower levels. A driver can be arrested with a BAC lower than .08 if a law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe the driver is impaired. More importantly, any level of impairment significantly increases the likelihood of a traffic crash, putting your life and the lives of others in danger. The bottom line? If you plan on drinking, getting behind the wheel is always a bad idea.

3 WAYS ALCOHOL IMPACTS YOUR ABILITY TO DRIVE

1. Inhibitions are lowered, affecting judgment and coordination, even after one drink.

2. Reaction times are slowed, even after two beers.

3. Vision, balance, speech and movement are adversely affected.

Source: AAA

“If you feel different, you drive different.”

Like drunk driving, drug-impaired driving is illegal. In 2017, 45 percent of drivers killed in fatal crashes who were tested for drugs, tested positive. Whether obtained legally or illegally, drug-impaired driving can be deadly for drivers, passengers and others on the road.

Here are some precautions holiday hosts and revelers can follow to avert drunk driving disasters, provided by the American Safety Council:

Make memories, not tragedies. Choose a sober ride.

HOST THOUGHTFULLY

• Offer a mocktail, alcohol-free beer or other nonalcoholic beverage for guests choosing not to drink.

• Ask guests who are drinking if they have a designated driver or transportations plans.

• If someone has been drinking and might drive, offer your couch as a place to sleep.

• Help guests who have been drinking arrange transportation through a rideshare app or taxi service.

CELEBRATE RESPONSIBLY

• Agree on a designated driver before you go out for the evening.

• Save the number for several local cab companies in your phone if you plan to drink, or make sure you have a ride-share app downloaded to your phone.

• Ask a friend if you can crash on his or her couch for the night if you’ve had too much to drink.

• If you’re attending a party and are concerned you may drink too much, give your keys to the host at the start of the evening, so he or she can hold on to them unless you are sober.

We’ve seen the lifelong impact that impaired driving can have on families. This season, and every season, please make safe choices. DON’T DRINK, SMOKE & DRIVE.

NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS

CENTENNIALS CLAWED BY GRIZZLIES

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

It was a packed house at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena on Nov. 26 for the Merritt Centennials solo game on the KIJHL schedule for the week, hosting the annual Teddy Bear Toss tradition against the Revelstoke Grizzlies.

Wednesday, November 26 - Merritt Centennials 2 - Revelstoke Grizzlies 4

The home team was in for a tough challenge in front of over 900 fans against a Revelstoke team with just one loss in their last ten. With teddies in hand of those in attendance, it was the Grizzlies that got on the board first just over two mintues in, doubling their lead before the seven-minute mark. However, with just over one minute remaining in the opening frame, the fur went flying thanks to Troy Horn’s seventh of the season for the Cents, with helpers from Callum MacLean and Noah Lawless on the powerplay. Both sides exchanged a goal each in the second period, with Merritt’s coming off the stick of Gairen Bona, leaving the Cents down 3-2 heading into the final frame.

The home side was pressing for the equalizer in the final minute of regulation with goaltender Tyler Picha on the bench, though Revelstoke added an empty netter with 14 seconds left on the clock for a 4-2 final score.

The loss leaves the Cents in the middle of the pack in the Bill Ohlhausen Division at 11-10-0-0.

Road trip begins

The Cents return to the ice on Friday, Dec. 5 to start a five-game road swing, visiting the lowly Columbia Valley Rockies for the first time this season.

The Rockies sit last in the KJHL’s Eddie Mountain Division with just six wins, and third last in the overall league standings.

Merritt then has stops in Golden, Princeton, Kelowna and Chase before finally returning to Nicola Valley Memorial Arena on Dec. 20 to host the rival Kelowna Chiefs at 6p.m.

For schedules and more information, visit www. merrittcentennials.ca. Teddy Bear Toss photos

A RARE SIGHT INDEED

The Merritt Curling Club was the site of a rare feat on ice on Nov. 25, as Team Newton consisting of skip Susan Newton, 3rd Bob Taylor, 2nd Doug Turvey and lead Lis Ladyman scored an eightender. Scoring all eight rocks in the fourth end, it was a first for each team member.

Inner right: Curl BC sent the team an eight-ender pin in recognition of their achievement.

Shop with the Centennials Dec 14 ~ 2-5 pm at the Elks December 20

CENTENNIALS HAMPER DRIVE Donate non perishable food items for Merritt Food Bank

PHOTO/MERRITT CURLING CLUB

STARS SHINE AT OKANAGAN INTERCLUB

PHOTO/JAKE COURTEPATTE

Nicola Valley Skating Club’s Sloane Mulyk earned a silver medal in the Showcase 1 at the Okanagan Interclub competition on Nov. 30.

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The Nicola Valley Skating Club made quite an impression on the Interior skating scene hosting the Okanagan InterClub on Nov. 28-30, with 13 local skaters hosting hundreds more at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

Over 300 skaters ranging from STAR 1 and up took to the ice for the three-day event, with some impressive showings by the hometown club.

“Memories were made, laughs, smiles, great skates, personal bests, new solos, new events and we couldn’t be more proud of our club, 13 Competitors, volunteers and past skaters and parents who joined in to help with the experience also,” said Coach Diana Lorenz.

Results:

Mackenna STAR 3 solo - Silver

Sloane Mulyk STAR 3 solo - Bronze

Sloane Mulyk Showcase 1 - Silver

Olivia Boone STAR 3 U10 5th place

Aziza Earle STAR 4 13&O Group 1, 8th place

Avery Starrs STAR 4 13&O Group 2, 8th place

Meera Dutt STAR 5 Artistic - 11th place

Meera Dutt STAR 5 13&O 11 th place

Jayda Starrs STAR 5 13&O 4th place

Makai Earle STAR 1 - Bronze

Logan Selzler STAR 1 - Bronze

Kinsley Hunt STAR 1 - Bronze

Maya Dutt STAR 1 - Silver

Katie Nelson STAR 1 - Silver

Daisy Buker STAR 1 - Bronze.

NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY

TOSS THOSE TEDDIES!

PHOTOS/JAKE COURTEPATTE

Fur flew though the air in droves near the end of the first period at the Merritt Centennials’ annual Teddy Bear Toss game against the Revelstoke Grizzlies on Nov. 26. All stuffed toys were collected and redistributed by the Nicola Valley Food Bank to families in need, while Murray GM provided a financial donation to the Food Bank for each teddy.

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

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

Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-319-8823

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

Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Service Times: Sunday 10 am

Motion Church Merritt Sundays 10 am

Coquihalla Middle School (2975 Clapperton Ave) www.wearemotionchurch.ca/merritt ■

CLASSIFIEDS

The More You GIVE

by Teresa Piercey-Gates

The more you give, the more you get,

The more you do unselfishly

The more you live abundantly.

The more of everything you share,

The more you laugh, the less you fret.

The more you’ll always have to spare.

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• Students welcome to apply

The more you love, the more you’ll find

That life is good and friends are kind.

For only what we give away,

Enriches us from day to day.

Route

Route 4: Boyd, Greaves, Juniper, Panorama & Parker

URGENTLY NEEDED - FILL-IN CARRIERS

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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 1. Dough made from corn flour

A low wall

A cup golfers want to

Outgoing

“Partner” to flow

Former Michigan coach Brady 24. Proverb

1. A way to plan

Three-banded armadillo

Mobile

Romanian city

Making sour

Take a seat