Merritt Herald March 13, 2025

PAGE 13-14

PAGE 15-17

FLOOD MITIGATION

SPORTS

Exciting new projects from the city’s flood mitigation team help mitigate disasters and create a balanced ecosystem.

Read about the sporting events that captivated Merritt, including the Centennials’ series loss to Revelstoke.

THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025

merrittherald.com | x.com/merrittherald

E S T. 1 9 0 5

Want news straight to your inbox? Scan the QR code to subscribe to our daily newsletter.

FREE

CITY LOOKS TO REFOCUS ECONOMIC STRATEGY TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

The city of Merritt is aiming to refocus its economic development plan made under the previous mayor and council.

It was stated during a March 4 committee of the whole meeting that no single item on the 115- page economic development plan was completed since the plan’s inception in 2022.

Chief Administrative Officer Cynthia White said the plan was too broad for the city’s economic development staff team of one person to get anything done.

In the current iteration of the Economic Development Strategy 2022 to 2031 there are five prioritizations.

1. Promote a vibrant city centre 2. Economic diversification and growth 3. Business attraction and retention 4. Increasing housing supply in city centre and urban villages 5. Commercialization of Merritt Airport area According to the plan, there are 155 action items scheduled to be worked on in the 2024/2025 year.

White said that due to the plan’s

broad scope and lack of focus, the city has not been able to complete any of the major items.

“There are a number of items that have had some work done on them, but I would say there are no items that have been fully accomplished at this point,” she said.

“I think ultimately over the last couple of years there hasn’t been sufficient direction for moving priorities forward. It’s been hit or miss and we’ve accomplished some things, but I don’t know how purposeful those accomplishments were.”

White stated some of the goals were not realistic because measuring its completion is difficult.

She listed goal 1.1, ‘completed city centre revitalization plan and the implementation of action items’ as an example of this.

She stated a plan like this would

be too much to do in 10 years.

Coun. Adam Etchart, who was on the previous city council in which this plan was drafted, said the plan was to slowly move towards multiple goals at FOCUS: continued on page 3

PHOTO : Laísa Condé

FINAL GAME OF THE SEASON: Read about the thrilling finale to the Centennials’ season as they battled to a 3-1 defeat against the Revelstoke Grizzlies on page 17.

Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929.

Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri.: 10:00am - 3:00pm • Wednesday 1:00pm - 6:00pm / 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

On-call 24 Hrs. a day: 250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 • www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com

A2 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

CEN TURY 21 Moving Real Estate BC LTD.

#102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8

movingrealestate.c21.ca

® 250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100

Don Gossoo

Doug Beech (Owner)

250-378-7392

Brad Yakimchuk

Bailee Allen 250-315-9648

Managing Broker

Personal Real Estate Corporation

250-315-3043 2038 COLDWATER AVENUE

2326 GARCIA STREET

#206, 1701 MENZIES ST.

2477 BURGESS AVENUE

2501 BREMNER AVENUE

#1&2 1307 SPRUCE AVE

NEW This upgraded property offers a fantastic location and a secondary suite, making it an ideal investment property. Has large detached garage for workshop/storage & RV parking. 3 bedrm on main, plus 2 in bsmt and 2 baths.

A meticulously restored heritage house of elegance & charm on 0.8 acre lot with R2 zoning, a gem from 1910. The home boasts 4 bedrms 3 baths & a newly renovated Mill Creek Cabinet kitchen with appliances. Close to amenities.

In the Summitt is a 2 bedrm 2 bath apartment with open concept layout, that’s bright & inviting space.

Main bedrm has 4 pce ensuite & W/I closet. In-unit laundry. Close to corner store, school & public transit. Strata fees are $275 per month.

Stunning custom built home of 3738 sq.ft.on 3 levels, features 5 bedrms, 4 baths, living room with 19 ft ceilings, kitchen with updated appliances, office & finished bsmt. Outside is your private oasis with new inground pool for the sunny summers!

Immaculate 4 bedrm 4 bath home on 0.9 acre lot with Nicola river flowing behind. This home has a Jefferson suite upstairs & secondary living below.

Has lush gardens, a spacious sundeck & detached workshop.

Investors! Brand new full duplex in quiet area. Close to schools & park. Feature 3 large bedrms on upper floor plus open den/rec.room per side. Main floor is open concept of kitchen/dining and great room. Has large crawl space for storage. Both sides are tenanted.

MLS#10337375

MLS #10328027

MLS #10336706

MLS#10333138

MLS#10338136

MLS#10334455

$569,900

2438 JACKSON AVENUE

$1,169,900

2682 QUILCHENA AVENUE

$309,000

6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

$1,099,999

$1,290,000

$995,000

2143 CLAPPERTON AVENUE

2540 COUTLEE AVE

2596 ABERDEEN RD

NEW

Adorable 2 bedroom home full of charm & character with thoughtful updates throughout.

Enjoy the new laminate flooring, fresh paint, classic waitscoting, updated bathrm & plush carpet in basement. Has 2 outbldgs for workshops/storage.

Charming 1400 sq.ft. rancher has an open concept living and a large garage. This home features 3 bedrms, 2 baths, a spacious living room & beautiful kitchen with island seating. Enjoy the newly fenced yard.

Build your dream home or recreation home on one of these lots in this strata development of Nicola Lake. These lots have great views & access to the water. All services are to the property line. GST applies. Prices starting at ...

This 3 bedrm home offers SO much potential! Main floor has been recently updated with paint, drywall & flooring. Has an unfin. bsmt waiting for your ideas.

Fully fenced yard, close to schools & shopping.

Investors take note! 1200 sq.ft. rancher with 2 bedrooms plus a city approved 1 bedroom secondary suite in the back with long term tenants.

House is in very good condition with private fenced yard, lane access & a workshop.

Charming 4 bedrm 2 bath home on 1.79 acres in Lower Nicola, with large detached shop and room for horses or chickens. Home has had several upgrades including 200 amp service, renovated bathrm, & HW tank in 2019. Has 2 drilled wells.

MLS#10335512

MLS#10337351

MLS#10337759

MLS#10337388

MLS#10332326

MLS#10336773

$400,000

$549,900

$275,000

$349,000

$429,000

$759,900

#35, 1098 HOUSTON ST.

2635 KINVIG STREET

8609 MERRITT SPENCE BR

2464 QUILCHENA AVENUE

3018 HILTON DRIVE

2201 BURGESS AVENUE

Like new, 2013 2 bedrm, 2 bath mobile home in River MH Park. Great for retirees or first time buyers.

Fenced private yard with river view. Sit on your private deck under your gazebo. Pad rent of $506 per month.

Charming 3 bedrm 2 bath home on beautifully landscaped 1.84 acres with large heated multi-use structure, barn & covered RV & boat parking. The home’s basement had been updated with flooring, paint & cozy woodstove.

Executive retreat on 16 acres with fruit trees, fields, workshop & chicken coop. Custom built home with 4 bedrms, 3 baths, huge oak kitchen, high ceilings in living rm & partly fin. basement. Relax on the wrap around covered decks. Pefect for yoga retreat.

Well maintained 3 bedrm 2 bath home is ready for you. Has open concept layout with a renovated bsmt. Enjoy the modern equipped kitchen with S/S appliances. New roof in 2016, fully fenced yard.

Thoughtfully designed rancher ideal for family & an income suite in bsmt. Has 4 bedrms in main living area, spacious kitchen, plus a 2 bedrm legal suite.

You’ll appreciate the modern design & quality craftsmanship. Located in quiet cul de sac.

Beautiful 4 bedrm 3 bath family home on 0.64 acres.

Features open concept floor plan, master bedrm with 5 pce ensuite, open kitchen with large island & S/S appliances & bonus room over garage. Has detached shop & lots of RV parking.

MLS #10334510

MLS #10329229

MLS#10330016

MLS#10336407

MLS#10333349

MLS#10333669

$282,500

$769,900

$1,250,000

$439,900

$795,000

$929,900

#9, 311 HWY.8

2540 CLAPPERTON AVE.

508 HARLOW MOORE DR

2651 COUTLEE AVENUE

2402 CLAPPERTON AVE.

2625 FORKSDALE AVE

Beautifully renovated 2 bedroom manufactured home that’s move in ready! Renos includes kitchen, all appliances, sink & taps, tile back splash, bathrm sink, vaniety & toilet plus electrical, light fixtures, drywall, trim & mouldings. Pad fees $450/mon.

Large family home with 4 bedrms up and a 2 bedrm suite at ground level + 1 bedrm inlaw suite. Huge family room and living up. Has fenced back yard and a storage shed. Currently tenanted.

4 bedrm houme on 1.56 acres, 2 bedrms up and 2 down with country style kitchen with dining room and access from deck to back yard. Home needs some upgrades. Has great view from living room.

The outbuildings are used for storage.

Large family home in good area & close to schools with 3 bedrms up, spacious living roon, large kitchen with oak cabinets, large family room, plus ground level 2 bedrm suite. Has fenced back yard with garden space

Great family home on corner lot with lane access. 3 bedrms up, 2 full bath, large kitchen & dining room.

Large rec. room in basement with gas F/P. Central A/C, newer roof, 1 car attached garge + detached heated shop.

Immaculate 4 bedrm 4 bath executive home in desirable area, close to amenities. Master bedrm has 5 pce ensuite with soaker tub. Large gourmet kitchen with an abundance of cabinets. Open living/dining/kitchen areaHas private back yard with fruit trees & concrete patio.

MLS#181410

MLS#10331796

MLS#10328156

MLS#10332422

MLS #10330670

MLS#10333823

$189,000

#84, 2776 CLAPPERTON AVE

$569,000

#101, 2295 BLAIR STREET

$539,900

1616 PINE STREET

$613,000

464 MERRITT SPENCES BR HWY

#4, 2776 CLAPPERTON AVE

NEW

$889,000

2801 CLAPPERTON AVENUE

D

UCE

RED

Thoughtfully designed 2023, 3 bedrm 2 bath mobile in Diamondvale MH Park, offers modern finishes & a functional layout. The open concept living space is bright & inviting. Close to school. Pad rent is $750 per month.

Bright & airy corner ground level unit in Sandpiper, with 2 bedrms & 1 bath freshly updated with new paint, stylish flooring & upgraded appliances. Just minutes from shopping, parks & downtown. Quick possession.

MLS#10335995

MLS#10338066

$279,000

$499,900

$229,000

Under construction – New rancher in good area to be built. 1281 sq.ft. 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with open concept spacious kitchen & living room. Has gas F/P in living room. Covered patio in back, 2 car garage. GST applies. Appliance pkg & window covering allowance.

MLS#10327884

movingrealestate.c21.ca

•

$525,000

Newly built 2023 manufactured home in Diamondvale MH Park. This 2 bedrm 1 bath home offers modern finishes & a functional layout make it an excellent choice for first time buyers, investors.

Pad rent $750 per month.

5 acre property in Lower Nicola with 2 road frontages, with two mobiles homes, both currently tenanted offering an excellent opportunity for rental income. Whether you want to expand, develop this property is flexible

Opportunity knocks with this iconic corner store.

Bob’s Minimart features a commercial kitchen equipped & ready for food prep. Above is a 2 bedroom living quarters for owners. Excellent location, loyal customer base & room for growth.

MLS #10336004

MLS#181375

MLS#10333693

378-6166

$219,000

•

$949,000

$815,000

movingrealestate.c21.ca

NICOLA VALLEY

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A3

NEWS

GOT NEWS? Contact Laísa or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

FOCUS ON NEW INDUSTRY AND A REVITALIZED DOWNTOWN AREA FOCUS: continued from page 1

once and he is happier than most with the progress that has been made.

The third strategy in the plan, business attraction and retention, was also a large point of discussion in the meeting, as council and staff pondered on how a new industry would interact with their land, working demographics and existing industries.

Attracting industry would also naturally help the second part of the strategy, economic diversification and growth.

Coun. Manuel Olguin expressed his wishes for an economic development consultation corporation to be hired as the city continues to identify its asset, citing the successes of Chilliwack and Kelowna who have hired experts in economic development.

White said that while hiring an outside corporation for consultation isn’t a bad idea, council may want to wait until they know what the community wants and the scope of work that needs to be done.

“This gives us an opportunity to rightsize (the economic development plan) for our community,” she said.

“We want to make sure that we’ve right sized it for our community versus jumping in without having a real sense of what the full scope of work is.”

She continued, saying the city won’t have that scope until they are able to study the city’s working demographics.

“How many people in this communtiy are trades people? How many are plumbers, how many are electiricans, how many are skilled labourers, how many are

millwrights? How many people are graduating from NVIT and willing to move here? We need to know who these people are so we know what kind of industries we’re attracting,” she said.

White said attracting industry will also affect adjacent projects like housing or commercial areas.

“We need to know what those wage ranges are so we know what kind of housing needs to be built. There’s no point in building a $750,000 house if people are making a household income of $70,000 a year.”

Another part of the plan is to find all of the city’s assets including land and a survey of what industry is already here and would be compatible with a new one.

White said gathering all this information would be a task that would require a survey that would take months, at minimum, to complete.

She said it is likely that it would take a year and a half to complete this stage of the plan.

Consensus from council at the end of the day is to prioritize both industry and the revitalization of the downtown area.

“So the downtown for me is one of the most important things to revitalize. Your downtown is your heart and soul, always has been,” said Mayor Mike Goetz.

White said it’s possible to reform the strategy and see noticeable progress in it within the next three to five years.

She said the city will have a “meaningful” plan by the end of 2025 that will lay concrete steps for the future.

PHOTO/HERALD FILE

New highway advertisements put up by Tourism Nicola Valley in 2020.

TOURISM NICOLA VALLEY TO PLAY BIGGER ROLE IN PROMOTING MERRITT TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

Further collaboration between the City of Merritt and Tourism Nicola Valley (TNV) is looking likely as the city looks to increase its presence as a premier tourist destination.

During the meeting, multiple representatives involved in TNV, a non-for-profit and destination marketing organization (DMO), made their case to council for increased collaboration with the city.

TNV is a group recognized as a DMO since late 2022, but little action has been taken to incorporate them in to a grander tourism scheme since. Mayor Mike Goetz said they have been more like a “DMO-in-waiting”.

TNV said they have generated over $1.8-million in grant money over the last few

years.

Since 2023, the group has been able to use the money to improve both the recreational facilities in Merritt as well as the city’s physical assets.

“How long before we take tourism seriously? We have everything here to bring a lot of money in. We could seriously help our non-profits, we could seriously help our stores, we could seriously help with downtown revitalization,” said Greg Girard, tourism advisor at RNV during a presentation at the March 4 committee of the whole meeting.

Other notable representatives present at the meeting were real-estate agents Darcy McLeod and Amber Papou TNV : continued on page 4

NICOLA VALLEY FOOD BANK SOCIETY

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Monday, April 2 2025 - 6:30 p.m.

ROOM 4, MERRITT CIVIC CENTRE

NVFB Society members, and people interested in becoming members, are urged to attend. The more members we have signed up – the better our qualifications for grants to help us build our new facility! Membership is not onerous – the fee is just $5.00 and generally there is just the one meeting a year. For those who wish to be more involved, we anticipate that there will be opportunity to serve on our Board of Directors.

Refreshments will be served. Our Annual Performance Review will be available. We will be providing an update on some preliminary information under consideration in connection with our proposed new Food Bank Facility.

A4 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

TNV TO FILL TOURISM VOID IN CITY TNV: continued from page 3 who are also involved with TNV. Over the years, invesment in tourism from the city has dwindled according to the DMO. Since 2012, the City of Merritt has listed eight different tourism strategy documents created by different consulting groups or from B.C. govenrment organization Destination BC. “We spend, we spend, we spend (On consultants). Why (do we spend), when we are so fortunate to have people in this community who care about this community,” Girard said.

In 2024, numbers of tourists fell from previous years according to visitor statistics from the Baillie House, which is the city’s measuring stick for tourism.

A vast majority of the visitors recorded were only staying for less than a day according to the report.

Girard said a good base for the city’s tourism industry is having visitors stay for two or three days.

He also remarked on the success TNV has had over the last few years, especially as they’ve revamped what he calls the city’s ‘physical inventory’, which mainly are snowmobile and mountain bike trails.

Advocates for TNV’s work were also present at the meeting. Among these people were Simon Rizzardo from the Merritt Snowmobile Club and Travis Fehr from BreatheBikes and the Mountain Biking Club.

Rizzardo vouched for TNV’s work. He said the snowmobile club wouldn’t be able to have their groomed trails without the work that TNV did for them in securing grants.

He also said the groomed trails are key in bringing in events to the city - like January’s Ladies Snowmobile Ride - which naturally bring in money to the community.

Fehr, who was formerly a Merritt city councillor, gave his word on the organization and how they helped with the mountain biking trails.

“They’ve been carrying the ball for years now, and it takes a lot to keep that energy going and they’ve never shown any sign of giving up, so it’s impressive.”

Girard stated issues with the city’s approach to tourism and criticized the city for not involving TNV more.

“Anything tourism should include TNV, I don’t understand (what has been) the difficulty of understanding that,” Girard said, saying the group has years of expertise in the subject. “The lack of communication between the city and TNV creates mixed messages and branding confusion.”

Throughout the presentation he made the point that Merritt could massively benefit from an improved tourism industry if the city marketed its physical assets better.

Girard compared Merritt to Revelstoke in terms of natural resources that it can take advantage of.

According to Choose Revelstoke website, they suggest they receive an average of 1.1 million visitors during the summer months alone.

Merritt lists no study in which the actual number of visitors per year has been tracked, except for the Baillie House, which only lists people who go to the visitor centre.

In 2024, the visitor centre listed only 16,000 people stopped by in 2024.

At one point in the meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Cythia White said she felt the environment was becoming unsafe for both her and her staff. She walked out of the meeting bringing city staff with her. City council stayed to hear the rest of the presentation.

“I think you are very one-sided in your opinion, and council makes the decision, you don’t need us here,” White told Girard.

“When Mr. Girard has repeatedly denigrated the work of our staff and our organization, that is really hard for us to deal with when in reality this (communication) is a two-way street,” she continued.

Prior to White’s departure, Girard stated that previous employees working on tourism within the City of Merritt were “undermining” TNV. He clarified to everyone that he meant “no disrespect” to the city, though he did once again criticize the lack of collaboration.

Council, on the other hand, seemed enthused by a group being so passionate about tourism. The mayor even admitted that the city could use help in boosting the city’s tourism industry.

“We know for a fact that we have not been good at tourism,” said Goetz at the meeting.

“I’ve been very honest that we have not done a great job at tourism, and I honestly believe it’s something we should not be involved in, because we don’t do a great job of it,” Goetz said.

The mayor later told the Herald that collaboration with Tourism Nicola Valley is needed as the city lacks the manpower to commit a full-time employee to market tourism.

According to him, TNV has been in talks with the city for a long time, but have failed to get started on a collaboration.

Goetz said the city wants to jump on the opportunity before the summer season.

“We’re in constant competition with other places in B.C., and obviously we want to maximise our tourism dollar,” he said.

The city is looking to sign a memorandum of understanding and a work agreement with TNV so they can be overseen and compensated.

Maximum Refund Guaranteed* Get the biggest refund possible.

Our Maximum Refund Guarantee* ensures you get all the deductions and credits you’re entitled to.

Speak to an H&R Block Tax Professional today Open Monday - Friday 9 am - 6 pm Saturday 9 am - 5 pm 2145 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC Phone: 250-378-4695 Fax 250-378-2106

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A5

PHOTO/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

A former CIBC bank manager is now banned from the public markets.

B.C. COMMISSION BANS FOR LIFE FORMER MERRITT BANK MANAGER IN $157K FRAUD CASE GRAEME WOOD

Business in Vancouver

The B.C. Securities Commission has banned a former Merritt bank manager, last known to be working as a hairdresser, from the securities industry.

Hope Moira Donna Thomas pleaded guilty to criminal fraud in May 2023 after stealing $157,000 from her mother-in-law by using her powers as a branch manager at CIBC and forging signatures to set up fraudulent accounts.

Thomas told the court she had become addicted to drugs and suffered from mental health problems, but that she was rebuilding her life as a hairdresser.

Thomas received a two-year conditional sentence.

Thomas’ lawyer told the court the scheme “didn’t seem too complex to me.”

Thomas was banned by the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada from further securities-related employment and fined $300,000.

Last year the commission applied for a reciprocal order, which was approved by a hearing panel on Feb. 28.

Thomas is no longer allowed to work for, consult with or promote public companies, although there is no indication she had ever done so.

The commission’s mandate is to regulate the securities market and protect British Columbian investors.

Meanwhile the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Department of Justice continues its prosecution of over one dozen B.C. residents who took part in an alleged stock fraud scheme involving more 100 American-listed – and some B.C.registered – companies and $1 billion in transactions.

The scheme was orchestrated out of B.C., according to American authorities.

Like Thomas’ unrelated case, the BCSC banned two individuals found liable in a court ruling.

MORE SUPPORT FOR 2021 FLOOD VICTIMS LAISA CONDE

editor@merrittherald.com

The Canadian Red Cross is reaching out to households affected by the 2021 British Columbia floods and extreme weather events, inviting those impacted to complete a questionnaire for one-time financial assistance aimed at supporting their recovery.

Three years after the catastrophic floods and atmospheric river, many households continue to experience long-lasting effects.

The Canadian Red Cross acknowledges that recovery from such large-scale events extends beyond the immediate aftermath, with many households still reporting ongoing challenges such as mental health impacts, financial losses, and recovery gaps.

The financial assistance is part of the Red Cross’s continued efforts to assist commun-

ities as they rebuild.

This initiative aims to better understand the ongoing impact on those affected and provide crucial support for their recovery process.

To apply for assistance, eligible individuals are invited to complete the questionnaire online. The deadline for submitting the questionnaire is March 21, 2025.

The Canadian Red Cross has assured participants that they will never ask for sensitive personal information such as Social Insurance Numbers, banking details, or credit card numbers to access this support.

For more information or assistance, individuals can contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-800-863-6582, Monday to Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

A6 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

VIEWPOINT

NICOLA VALLEY RECLAIMING THE SEASON OF LENT FROM ITS MORASS NARAYAN MITRA You Gotta Have Faith

T

HE season of Lent is upon us from this

week (Ash Wednesday was on March 5).

Whether the 40-day period is practiced or not, the eyes of the faithful believers in Jesus will find Lent’s culmination on Good Friday, April 18, this year.

At the heart of the message of this annual season is the Cross of Lord Jesus. The implications of that message can readily be summed up in four words suggested by Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:14-15: “For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.”

“He died for all.” These words strike at the root of the Christian gospel and tell us that God has dealt with sin. Our sin of rebellion – our claim to the right to be independent of Him – He has dealt with through His Son who was obedient unto His death on the cross.

To quote Isaiah: “The Lord has laid on Him the iniquity – the bias to independent living – of us all, and by His stripes we are healed.”

The sword of God’s justice has been buried in His own heart, for when Jesus laid bare His breast to the stroke of God’s judgment on human guilt, God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.

The punishment which was due to us, He has borne Himself.

“One died for all, therefore all died.” This tremendous truth of Christ for us, by which we may receive forgiveness for all our sins, solely on His merit and because of God’s grace, has this immense implication: that God has nothing of His blessing for anyone except it be in Jesus.

The life He lived and the death He died, which God has so clearly accepted, involved the setting aside of every other kind of life.

The acceptance of the life of Jesus in heaven is the inevitable rejection of all other types of life on earth. It is His meekness and perfect obedience which is accepted before God and therefore our pride and rebellion are for ever condemned.

It is impossible for anyone to claim forgiveness unless they accept Christ in life and death and His resurrection.

It is this truth which is desperately in need of emphasis today. So many people seem to take Christianity upon themselves so easily, almost flippantly.

There has been little, if any, understanding of what sin is, or of what it has done to all of us in throwing our whole personality off –centre, and making us the victim of appetite and fleshly desire instead of being the masters of it.

Nor is there real appreciation of the fact that it is only through Christ that we are forgiven and made one with God that we are enabled to live victoriously.

How is this possible? That question is answered at the heart of Paul’s message about the cross: “That they who live might no longer live for themselves but for Him…” The offer of God’s free grace demands God’s full government. There can be no conversion without His complete control of our lives.

We cannot accept Christ and live as we like. He must be the Lord.

But this is no awful bondage. It is, in fact, perfect freedom.

This revelation of Christ for us as our Substitute, and us with Christ in His death, has been accompanied by the imparting of His nature within each one of the believer.

This double truth of Calvary, through which we have forgiveness and share His victory, controls and restrains, compels our surrender, and enables us to do God’s will.

The two greatest lessons I have learnt through the years of my Christian experience are these: First, that God expects nothing of me except failure. And, as long as I go on trying to be something other than a failure, I shall go on failing.

But God has given to me, in answer to faith and submission, His Holy Spirit, that I need not fail. And He is always sufficient.

That turns Christian living from drudgery into luxury. The discovery of that secret would solve the vast majority of mental psychological problems.

It would also transform defeated, frustrated, despairing professing Christians into radiant men and women of God.

#201-1951 GARCIA ST., P.O. BOX 9, MERRITT, B.C. Phone: 250-378-4241 Merritt Herald newspaper is a Canadian-owned and locally operated community newspaper, published

by Glacier Media Group, a publicly traded company headquartered in British Columbia, and distributed every Thursday to........

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher.

PUBLISHER Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE/ OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Jake Courtepatte admin@merrittherald.com

EDITOR Laísa Condé newsroom@ merrittherald.com

REPORTER Ty Lim reporter@ merrittherald.com

The 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 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A7 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.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

LETTERS to the Editor ACCESS TO LIFESAVING VACCINES Editor, Thanks to the government of Canada for a new pledge of $675 million over the next five years to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

This funding will directly impact the lives of millions around the world by providing access to lifesaving vaccines and preventing deadly diseases.

Canada’s commitment comes at a critical time when we’ve seen neighbouring countries making drastic cuts to their international assistance, jeopardizing decades of progress in child survival and threatening the lives, health and well-being of the world’s most marginalized people.

– Randy Rudolph Calgary, Alta.

A BEACON OF LIGHT IN A DARKENING WORLD Editor, Buried in all the shocking headlines, the federal government just announced a contribution of 675 million to the recent round of funding for GAVI, the global vaccine alliance. With so much bad news out there this is a huge affirmation of Canada’s most cherished values. It will help vaccinate 500 million children and prevent up to 9 million deaths by 2030.

While other wealthy countries like the US and the UK abandon their global responsibilities en mass, our country has stood up for its principles.

Canada remains a beacon of light in a darkening world.

– Nathaniel Poole Victoria, B.C.

John Isaac

250-378-1586

Should B.C. go ahead with dropping the change to and from daylight time in the spring and fall and not wait for the U.S. states to do the same?

IS THE JUSTICE SYSTEM FAILING US? Editor, Re: Wrongful murder convictions of Robert Mailman and Walter Gillespie due to N.B police ‘tunnel vision’ I believe that ‘justice’ system vice occurs more frequently than we can ever know about. Any wrongful charge, trial, conviction and punishment should be very concerning to any law-abiding person.

Also, I’ve noticed that most people tend to naively believe that suffering a wrongful conviction will not happen to them. However statistically unlikely, the average person could someday find themselves unjustly accused and sentenced.

Whenever I hear how relieved people are when someone [usually a male] is charged with a serious or reviled crime — ‘Did they catch him? They did?

Well, that’s a relief!’ — I mentally hear the phrase: ‘We’ll give ’im a fair trial, then we’ll hang ’im.’

And if I point out he may be the wrong guy who’s being railroaded, I could receive the erroneous refrain, ‘Well if he’s truly innocent, he has nothing to worry about.’

It is also why the news-media should refrain from publishing the identity of people charged with a crime — especially one of a very violent and repugnant nature, for which they are jailed pending trial (as is typically done) — until at least after they’ve been convicted.

– Frank Sterle Jr. White Rock, B.C.

Have your say at merrittherald.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION Do you think the implementation of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods entering U.S. will prompt a full-blown Canada-U.S. trade war?

YES NO UNSURE

83% 7% 10%

24 2 3

AFromLOOK BACK the Herald archives MARCH 3, 2015

MORGAN COMMITS $420,000 TO MERRITT A six-figure investment in Merritt is certain as long the Trans Mountain expansion project is too.

Pipeline company Kinder Morgan will invest $420,000 in Merritt’s infrastructure as a result of the city signing off on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Thursday.

MARCH 5, 1980

CONSTRUCTION BOOM EXPECTED Logan Lake’s planning coordinator will recommend to the village council this week which of the 15 tenders to accept for development of a 170-unit housing subdivision south of the village.

Thirty-three other lots in the subdivision will be sold individually at an average price of $12,000 a lot to those who wish to custombuild their own homes.

Merritt Senior Centre

www.realestatemerritt.com

Spring Craft Sale

F: 250-378-6184

March 15th 10-3 pm • 1675 Tutill Court

MERRITT SENIORS CENTRE

Tables $15.00 to book a table Merritt Senior Centre 250-378-3763 or call Linda at 778-661-0935

www.merritt.ca/seniors T: 250-378-3763 E: msca2@telus.net

Johnisaac@telus.net

Ph: 250-378-6181

www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC

M E R R I T T

Royal LePage Merritt...Helping you is what we do!

P.O. Box 2935 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

A8 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

CITY NEWS

MARCH 13

UTILITIES COST INCREASE

Water Meter

NEW

PROGRAM

As per the Fees and Charges Bylaw 2386, residents will see an increase in their utility bills this April. Some households with higher usage, such as those with secondary suites, will experience a greater increase.

Merritt residents and businesses currently consume water at a rate well above national average. This may be due in part to water being lost in aging watermains.

Thanks to funding from the Province of BC, the City of Merritt is now initiating a universal water metering program. A standard water meter will be installed in every household FREE OF CHARGE to homeowners.

It is expected that with accurate information about water usage, the City will be able to identify infrastructure deficiencies and see a decrease in water usage.

Utility fees are set strictly for cost recovery on operational and capital expenses. They are not a source of revenue for the City. Utility rates had remained unchanged over the last decade.

Those wishing to budget in advance for these changes may wish to look at the Fees and Charges Bylaw 2386.

Reference the City of Merritt Waterworks Bylaw #2392, 2025 (adopted February 25, 2025): “A Water Meter shall be installed for each category on every parcel that receives water service from the City as per the Fees and Charges Bylaw. The City may refuse or Discontinue to supply water to any premises...”

4MERRITT.CA/FEES-CHARGES-BYLAW 4MERRITT.CA/UTILITIES

SPRING BREAK MARCH 17-21 WEEK 1

DAYCAMP CAMP MARCH 24-28 + + WEEK 2

GAMES

AGES 6-1 11

CRAFTS

4MERRITT.CA/WATERMETERS

SPRING 2025 REC C R EATII O N

REGISTER NOW

ACTIVITIES

BOO OK A DAY OR R A WEEK

8:00AM - 4:00PM

4

$30/DAY | $130/WE EEK

MERRITT.CA/DAYCAMP U N T I L

M A R C H

3 1 ,

RECREATION GUIDE AVAILABLE ONLINE

4MERRITT.CA/RECREATIONGUIDE4MERRITT.CA/REGISTTER

Youth Night g

2 0 2 5

AGES 7 - 18 YEARS

MERRITT FIRE RESCUE

FireSafe i S f 4

MERRITT.CA/FIRESAFE

CALL FOR

F R I D A Y

Available to eligible residents while supplies last.

BOOK YOUR FREE FIRESAFE ASSESSMENT

NICOL A VALLEY A Q U AT I C C E N T R E

MARCH 14

7:30PM - 8:30PM

4MERRITT.CA/YOUTHNIGHT

FOR Instructors CALL PERFORMERS LANGUAGE INSTRUCTOR FRENCH | SPANISH | ENGLISH | MORE

EXPLORE THE OPPORTUNITY | EMAIL US

4

GAMES | PRIZES | FREE CONCESSION | FREE ADMISSION

FREE FIRE SAFETY ASSESSMENT AND A FREE SMOKE ALARM

COOKING INSTRUCTOR SUSTAINABLE | GARDEN TO TABLE

RECREATION@MERRITT.CA

UNIVERSAL

DANCE INSTRUCTOR COUNTRY | LATIN | BALLROOM

A P P L I C AT I O N S O P E N DEADLINE: APRIL 11, 2025 | 4:00 PM

4

MERRITT.CA/MUSIC

NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING: TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025 | CITY HALL | 6:00PM | PUBLIC WELCOME!

2025

Music usic in the

Park

4MERRITT.CA

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A9

VIGILANTES PUNISHED AFTER ATTACKING WRONG PERSON TIM PETRUK Castanet

Two men have pleaded guilty to assault charges after they took the law into their own hands when their trucks were broken into in Merritt.

Lucas Alexander Mario Thurber, 30, and Taylor Joseph William Snihur, 29, pleaded guilty Monday in Kamloops provincial court to charges of assault. Additional charges of unlawful confinement were stayed after sentencing.

Court heard both men had their trucks burgled separately in Merritt last summer, resulting in significant losses — $10,000 worth of tools taken from Thurber’s truck and $1,000 worth of tools stolen from Snihur.

“The two accused asked around some individuals and came to believe that the victim, Colby Adamson, had been responsible for the thefts,” Crown prosecutor Anthony Varesi said in court.

“As a result of that, on Aug. 19, 2024, they were driving around Merritt when they saw the victim in the parking lot of an A&W.” Varesi said the men approached Adamson and asked his name, then they attacked.

Snihur took Adamson to the ground and Thurber began to punch him.

The whole incident was captured on surveillance cameras. Varesi said the injuries to the victim were minor — a cut lip and some bruises.

Wrong man targeted?

The vigilantes likely got the wrong guy.

According to a police report, Merritt Mounties don’t believe Adamson broke into

Thurber and Snihur’s vehicles.

No one has been charged in relation to the thefts.

“There’s a suggestion in the police report that they don’t believe it was Mr. Adamson and that they got the wrong person,” Varesi said.

Court heard both men were described in the police report as “upstanding, hardworking members of the community.” A number of reference letters were also filed in court.

“This appears to be a situation where they allowed their frustration to take over and they took matters into their own hands — and that can’t happen,” Varesi said.

Kamloops provincial court Judge Ray Phillips went along with a joint submission that will see both men spend 12 months on probation, with conditions requiring they complete 20 hours of community service and stay away from Adamson.

“You have to put your faith and trust in the RCMP in these circumstances,” the judge said. “Otherwise you risk running afoul of the law, as you have done.”

Phillips granted Thurber and Snihur both conditional discharges, meaning their criminal records will remain unblemished if they complete probation without incident.

It’s not Adamson’s first time drawing the ire of angry vigilantes. In 2021, he was targeted by a “lynch mob” following an uptick in crime in the Kamloops neighbourhood where he was living. The case was mentioned in court by Thurber’s lawyer.

NEW ROOF COMING TO MERRITT LIBRARY LAISA CONDE

editor@merrittherald.com

The roof of the Merritt Library is about to get a much-needed makeover, thanks to the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD).

TNRD has approved the allocation of up to $90,000 from the Canada Community Building Fund (CCBF) for the replacement of the Merritt Library’s roof.

The funding is split equally between Electoral Areas “M” (Beautiful Nicola Valley – North) and “N” (Beautiful Nicola Valley – South), with each area contributing $45,000 for the project.

The Merritt Library, located at 1691 Garcia St., is a 7,840-square-foot property owned by the TNRD and serves the community 41 hours a week, Tuesday through Saturday.

The building was constructed in 2001, and while it has been well-maintained over the years, including repairs to the roof in 2015 and 2024, the roof has now reached the end

of its useful life. As part of the TNRD’s Asset Management Plan, the roof replacement has been identified as a necessary project.

The use of CCBF funds for this project has been confirmed as an allowable expense, as the Merritt Library is an asset owned by the TNRD and delivers a service to the entire region. Additionally, the TNRD’s long-term capital plan includes this project.

By using CCBF funds, the TNRD is able to reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers.

Without this funding, the $90,000 required for the project would have been drawn from the capital reserve, which is funded through property taxes. Utilizing CCBF funds ensures the cost is covered without increasing the tax burden for residents.

This roof replacement will help ensure the Merritt Library continues to serve as an essential community resource for years to come.

SIMPLIFY YOUR FINANCES. ACCURATE. TIMELY. TRUSTED.

For all your

PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING & BOOKKEEPING needs.

Carrie Ware, BSc, CPA, CA www.carrieware.ca reception@carrieware.ca Chartered Professional Accountant Firm

250-378-2215

2032 Quilchena Avenue

FOR SALE Market changes? Find out what your home is worth!

Brenda and Ray - A trusted husband-and-wife realty team dedicated to the Nicola Valley for years. Your home, our priority!

Ray Thompson: 250-315-3377 Brenda Thompson: 250-315-8377

A10 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

INDIGENOUS TATTOO ARTIST RECLAIMS CULTURE WITH HIS INK

PHOTO/TY LIM

Robert Humphrey ( Xéysmkn) presenting his tattoo work on March 7 at the art gallery.

TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

An Indigenous tattoo artist in the Nicola Valley is setting precedence using the artform of ink to launch his business and shine a light on his heritage.

Robert Humphrey, or Xéysmkn in Nlaka’pamux (Nłe?kepmx), is an Indigenous markings practitioner working closely with the Lower Nicola Indian Band. Since 2020 he has been giving traditional tattoos or markings to Indigenous Peoples in the Nicola Valley.

Humphrey (Xéysmkn) is showcasing his work at the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council all through March in partnership with the gallery’s volunteer curator Astralis Snee. Occasionally sessions will be held at the gallery for tattoo consultation or live demonstrations of the practice.

“One of the things that I really wanted to do here in this community and our community, is to be able to share the identity of Indigenous People here in the Nicola Valley,” he said.

His tattoos are a revival of the traditional practice of face markings. His facial and body work art allows people to feel more connected to their indigenous culture and reclaim a piece of their heritage.

“I love my people, and I love the identity that our people are able to bring. The medicine that comes from tattoo and our design and our expression is very important to who we are as indigenous people here in the Nicola Valley,” he said.

On Friday, March 7, Humphrey (Xéysmkn) spoke at an open house where he dove into the meaning of his work. He said many of the attendees had gotten a tattoo from him, including the chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band Stuart Jackson, who was also at the art gallery.

what you have, it’s about what you can give sometimes. And I want to give to my community of the Lower Nicola Indian Band.

So that’s something I’ve taken a big step in; developing a relationship with my community and dusting our people off and standing them up in our identity,” he said.

Humphrey (Xéysmkn), has facial markings himself as he represents his ideas of a cultural resurgence and creating a safe space to showcase his identity, or how he puts it, “speaking the speak and walking the walk.” His is a series of three lines running down his chin that represent family.

“My family is represented on my face as well. The first line in the middle is me, the one on my left is my mother and the one on my right is my father,” he said.

“So I’m never going to be in this world alone, it doesn’t matter if there’s a person 10 feet from me or there’s nobody for a hundred miles, I’m never going to be alone because I wear it (family) on my face. And that’s part of the identity sharing.”

Family falls into a theme of heritage and cultural identity with Humphrey’s (Xéysmkn) art. He talked about how many of the women in his family worked with needles through basket weaving or beading.

“They all work with needles. And now you see me in front of you working with needles, and that’s something that I bring to my family, is that extension to the needle work.

And needles have been in our history for a long time, sharp objects, they supported our community to make our clothing,” he said.

Humphrey (Xéysmkn) said his art aims to create a safe space for people to find themselves.

Curator Snee, who worked hard bringing forward Humphrey’s (Xéysmkn) vision in the exhibition, said the spaces at the gallery are to help create a closer community and to enhance the voices of everyone.

“When we start to look at expressing ourselves as specific people, we want to create a safe space for that. And when we start to create safe space for that identity expression, we start to look at who we are as Indigenous People,” Humphrey (Xeysmkn) said.

“We have a history, we have heritage, we have a bloodline that is here from time immemorial. Many of us here in the room are indigenous, and we also create a partnership within non Indigenous as well.

So that’s something that I want to be sharing here in our space at the art gallery.”

Jackson said the practice of markings is one that’s been dormant for quite some time. “(Markings are) a part of our culture that I wouldn’t say has been hidden, but it’s just been set aside or it’s been put away for whatever reason, and (now) it’s coming alive,” he said.

“Every session that we (him and Humphrey) spent was meaningful, and I think that I took away a lot from that experience. And not only did it hurt, but it was a good hurt. It was a good pain. It was very, very powerful and spiritual.”

Humphrey (Xéysmkn) said he has done 120 to 130 facial tattoos and another equivalent amount of body tattoos over the last four years. He said he enjoys seeing more people in his community displaying a piece of their heritage.

He has been working closely with Our mission is to consistently deliver exceptional customer the Lower Nicola service by providing reliable, high-quality plumbing and Indian Band to help more people get heating solutions at reasonable rates. these tattoos, even giving his work for free sometimes.

LGA0211942 “It’s not about

PLUMBING & HEATING

CALL ALLIED PIPING SERVICES TODAY

250-550-6487

THOMPSONNICOLA OKANAGANSIMILKAMEEN COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL RED SEAL CERTIFIED FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED LICENSED INSURED BONDED 19 YEARS EXPERIENCE PROUDLY NLAKA’PAMUX

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A11

FRIENDS & Neighbours CURIOSITY LEADS TO VISIT TO LEGION

PHOTO/MERRITT FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT

Merritt Fire Department took care of a small blaze in Miller Estates.

MERRITT FIREFIGHTERS MAKE QUICK WORK OF SEASON’S FIRST GRASS FIRE TIM PETRUK Castanet

Firefighters in Merritt made quick work of the first grass fire of the season over the weekend.

Emergency crews were called on Saturday to a small blaze burning downslope of homes in Miller Estates.

Merritt Fire Rescue crews took care of the 0.37-hectare fire, and thanked neighbours for their help prior to the arrival of first responders.

“As spring continues, please exercise caution,” MFRD said in a post on social media. “Conditions are already conducive to fire starts.”

LAISA CONDE

editor@merrittherald.com

Donelda Haller, a Grade 4/5 teacher at Lower Nicola Indian School, recently took her class on an educational visit to the Merritt Legion Branch 96 after the students’ research on the Invictus Games sparked questions about support for injured military personnel.

“When my students learned that the Legion is dedicated to remembering and honoring the veterans, they were pleased,” she told the Herald.

President Alphonse L’Abbe welcomed the students and led them through the history and mission of the Legion. The students learned that the Legion is dedicated to honoring veterans, raising funds for military members in the community, and educating

the public about Canadian wars.

“They were surprised to learn that the Legion has 270,000 members and 1,350 branches,” Haller shared. “TThey learned some historical information about Canadian wars, which included a talk on The Unknown Soldier and that the Legion is a non-profit organization, raising money to support military members who live in the community.”

The students also enjoyed seeing the Colour Party March and learning about the different medals displayed at the Legion.

“The tour was awesome! My students are still talking about it,” said Haller. She thanked the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 96 for their hospitality and for providing such a valuable learning experience for her class.

PHOTO/THE CANADIAN PRESS

Interior Health won’t provide further reasoning on ER closures.

NO MORE EXPLANATIONS ON ER CLOSURES TIM PETRUK Castanet

Interior Health will no longer provide information about the reasons for emergency room closures, citing safety and confidentiality concerns for staff.

Until recently, IH would provide reasons as to why an emergency room was being temporarily shuttered — typically pointing to limited nursing or physician availability.

As of last week, that is no longer the case.

“Based on feedback from our clinical care teams, we are no longer including the specific reason for the service interruption to protect the safety and confidentiality of our staff and physicians,” reads a statement IH provided to Castanet in response to a query about the missing information.

“Our priority when a service interruption is required, after all options to avoid this are exhausted, is to provide communities with accurate information on the availability of local services and their options for care if local service is temporarily unavailable.”

IH also confirmed the recent closures of the emergency department at Merritt’s Nicola Valley Hospital, which had been otherwise unexplained, were due to staffing shortages.

Merritt’s emergency department has been closed six times so far in 2025, all in the last 30 days. Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz recently said he was sending a $207,000 bill to Victoria for 39 nights of ER closures in 2023 and 2024.

“Friendly, professional service, from people who care.”

Serving the community for over 50 years.

√ Pharmacy Service √ Medication Consults & Reviews √ Compliance Packaging √ Ostomy & Incontinence Supplies √ Home Health Care

√ Giftware & Souvenirs √ Travel Vaccinations √ Mobility Aids & Compression Therapy √ Asthma & Diabetic Supplies

FREE Delivery for Seniors & Those With Restricted Mobility

2037 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC

250-378-2155

A12 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

PHOTO/TY LIM

Merritt Secondary School class learning about horticulture at Thompson Rivers University.

MERRITT KIDS LEARN HOW TO WORK IN TRADES TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

Students from Merritt Central Elementary had a chance to experience what it’s like to work in the trades last Friday March 7.

During a trip to Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, a class of around 20 students taught by Aaron Cleaveley visited the Try-A-Trade convention.

“This was very different, getting to try things you’ve never tried before. A lot of kids didn’t think they’d be welding this year and not remain. There’s only six schools that get to come to this so that’s they’re very fortunate to get to do that. So we feel grateful for that,” Cleaveley said.

Happening alongside the convention was a Skills Canada BC competition which hosted many events from 2D animation to automotive technology and carpentry. Although there were no competitors from Merritt schools this year, the winners of the competitions would further their chance to compete on the world stage in Shanghai, China in 2026.

“Skills competitions expose students to various trades that may help them pursue a career in the future. This is especially important as the latest labour outlook for the province projects over 85,000 job openings in the skilled trades will be needed by 2033. By investing in community initiatives like this, we are able to support young people who will one day continue the work we do,” said Michaela Bjorseth, B.C. northwest region operations director at Enbridge, a pipeline and energy company that sponsors the skills competition.

While older students in high school and college were testing their craft against one another, younger students were able to dip their toes into the trades world through Try-A-Trade.

The students tried milling, plumbing, instrumentation, heavy duty mechanical trades, welding and horticulture.

Former students of Merritt Secondary School participated in both events on March 7.

One of the former students, now enrolled at TRU, competed in an auto body competition where he and a team of other students would have to identify and fix problems in a car.

Shantyl Brooks, another former M.S.S. student, was an instructor at Try-A-Trade.

“I think this entire day has been super awesome. I mean, it’s a great opportunity for the kids,” she said.

“They get to see all kinds of stuff that they could potentially do.”

Brooks and her classmates used a small fleet of donated cars to show the kids the basics of working in the automotive industry.

They also showed the kids how to operate small excavators.

Brooks said she was pleased to see how interested the kids were in the exercise.

“They were super interested. A lot of the kids, they just kind of wanted to mess around, hoking the horn and wanting to have fun. But, there were a couple good groups that were really into it. They were really asked a lot of questions.”

For Brooks, the day allowed her to reflect on her own past, as well as give her hope for the future of the industry.

“It reminds me of when I was a kid,” she said.

“In all honesty, I didn’t think I was going to be doing automotive until I got into high school. So seeing kids come over and they’re able to come and have a look at this kind of stuff, and maybe (I) sparked something in them so they’re like, ‘Oh, this is so cool.”

In an article published in September, 2024, Statistics Canada pointed out that from the 2021 census there was a drop of five per cent in trades employees across Canada from the previous census in 2016.

Over 245,000 construction workers are expected to retire by 2032. Statistics Canada said there will be a shortage of over 61,000 workers once this happens.

Competitions like Skills Canada BC and programs like Try-A-Trade are aiming to instill that knowledge of trades and spark an interest in it for the province’s youth.

THINKING OF

SELLING OR BUYING A

HOME?

NAVIGATE THE MARKET WITH A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL.

BREANNA OUELLET 61-2776 CLAPPERTON AVE. Nicely updated double-wide manufactured home located in the desirable Diamond Vale trailer park. This spacious home features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. All appliances were recently upgraded in 2022. The roof was replaced in 2020, providing peace of mind for years to come, and a new furnace was installed just a year ago. Step outside and be greeting by a fully fenced, nice sized back yard. All measurements are approximate.

MLS#10334426

$160,000

BREANNA OUELLET

Cell: 250-315-5820 email: Breanna.ouellet@remax.net #1 - 2114 Nicola Avenue, Merritt RE/MAX Legacy. Each office is independent owned and operated.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A13

Adopt a Pet

View your feature best friend @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca

To make an appointment to meet your new best friend Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 (250) 574-1316 email: aarsrescue@gmail.com

PHOTO/TY LIM

Sean Strang, Merritt Flood Mitigation team, on the lands of the STUWI(x) site.

STUWI(X) PROJECT LEADS SHARE NEW UPDATES reporter@merrittherald.com

A Merritt based project to re-naturalise its rivers is taking progressive steps never-before-seen in the province, ensuring community engagement in all-levels of its development.

STUWI(x) is a project to restore the natural pathing at the junction of the Nicola and Coldwater rivers, as well as revitalise the surrounding land. It will be worked on alongside the proposed plan for a diking system around said rivers.

The initiative was presented by two people during a presentation to the Nicola Naturalists Society on Thursday, Feb. 20; Sean Strang from the City of Merritt’s flood mitigation team, and Charlene Joe from the Lower Nicola Indian Band.

The project is unique in the fact that it is taking new measures to ensure co-operation between all communities involved.

It has been in the making for over two-and-a-half years now. In the past, dealings involving the projects first step - land acquisition - made it so the project leads were unable to speak to many of the specifics of STUWI(x) as the project was still in its early stages.

Now, the land has been acquired for the city using a government grant of $5.7 million.

The project is unique in many ways, including how the land acquisition was dealt with.

Strang, who dealt with the financial aspects of buying property, said he was proud that such a small community was going to be the first in such a progressive project.

There were four properties on the acquired land, all of which were abandoned and heavily damaged after the 2021 flood cut through it isolated the area from the rest of the land.

From then on, the property owners were unable to even get to their homes.

In other cases of floods and natural disasters, residents affected by the event would sometimes be compensated using property values that were conducted after the disaster instead of the value it had before.

The aftermath of the flood in Grand Forks is an example of this.

The team on the STUWI(x) project were determined to follow a different path during the acquisition.

“What I really want to hammer on is we put together a program that recognize that people that are in this

situation are people, not numbers, not houses,” said Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue Strang during a STUWI(x) presentation to the Nicola Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. We are a Registered Charity - 847488269RR0001.

Naturalists Society on Feb. 20.

Strang noted that some of these properties were This feature brought to you by... looted after the flood. Squatters even reside in the abandoned property from time to time.

With the land now in hand, the team is now able to work on the next steps of the project.

Co. Ltd Returning the land into a naturalized zone has always been the end goal of the project. According to Strang the team has documented imagery going back over Merritt’s Horse, Poultry, Livestock & Pet Supplies history which shows how the rivers have changed paths over the course of centuries.

KAMLOOPS: 471 Okanagan Way 250-372-2233 MERRITT: 1690 Voght Street 250-378-4432 The area of the STUWI(x) is inside a hot spot for erosion from the river and in turn will be at-risk of future changes in the river.

“Rivers move. Don’t build stuff where the rivers might move to.

It’s kind of the whole upshot here,” Strang said. “We get the choice between a bad option and a worse option. Building in a very, very high risk flood area like this, definitely a worse option.”

Naturalization will mean the prevention of any permanent structures on the property. The next step of the STUWI(x) project is to tear down all man-made structures across the land. This includes underground pipelines built by Fortis BC which will be moved deeper into the land. A sewage line running through the land is also set to be moved.

Efforts by the projects steering TO committee are also devising plans as to what the final area will look like. #104 - 2101 Quilchena Ave Joe and Strang both stated that the steering committee has a large amount of freedom to suggest and possibly implement ideas, rather than city engineers

PURITY FEED

We’ve got all you need at Purity Feed

CANNABIS STORE

OPEN

EVERYDAY FROM 9 AM

10 PM

250-378-0450

19+

Must be

TY LIM

“Breaking the Chain of Abuse”

UNITYCANNABIS.CA

A14 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

EMPOWERING LOCAL INDIGENOUS VOICES

EMPOWERING: continued from page 13 taking over the whole project.

They are comprised of members from the Coldwater, Cook’s Ferry, Lower Nicola, Nooaitch, Shackan and Upper Nicola Indian bands as well as a representative from Merritt.

“We can have projects that the community has input into, that our neighboring communities have input into, that we can come together as a valley to propose something,” Strang said.

The committee will try to empower the voices of its indigenous members.

“Part of it was we didn’t really want any political appointees. We just wanted to stick to community members, you know, the elders and knowledge keepers, traditional knowledge keepers, and, of course, our technical experts,” Joe said.

In a drafted vision statement, their goal is, “To restore and steward the natural riverscape, creating thriving habitats for all, while reconnecting people with the land and its stories, a space where traditions are respected, ceremony is renewed, and nature and community learn and grow together for future generations.”

Their vision will shape the last stage of the project which is construction. The term “construction” refers to any developments made in the project, which in this case will be natural.

Restoration of the land’s original plants and species is one of the main goals as of now. In order to do this, the team will have to conduct a cultural burn on the land which is set to be done next spring.

“We’re working closely with BC Wildfire and Salish Fire Keepers to do a control burn next spring, and that’s going to. To help alleviate all of this that’s in there, the brush, the weeds, we’re going to get rid of all of the plants that aren’t native,” Joe said.

In the end the only permanent, man-made structure on the land will be the dikes on the river banks. The dike system will be an upgrade from the previous system, which was made of scrap metal like abandoned cars.

The dike system will be necessary to make progress on the STUWI(x) project according to Strang. If funding for that section of the diking is granted, he is hoping the projects will be worked on in tandem.

“It’s actually a necessary condition to do literally anything in this corridor, because we can’t just open this up and let people’s houses flood and our infrastructure flood,” he said.

Both projects will help create an environment that values longevity and community safety.

“I want my kids to have a home. I don’t want to be talking to them in 20 years and asking them how they lost their houses in a flood,” Strang said.

The STUWI(x) project is hoping to see an opening date in the fall of 2027.

PROJECT C.H.O.M.P. TO SAVE TREES FROM BEAVERS

PHOTOS/TY LIM

(Top left) Chapman Oxbow site. (Bottom left) Tree stump with beaver bite. (Top right) Field of fell trees. (Bottom right) Alex Laforce checking beaver trail

TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

The city is taking new initiatives to save trees around the coldwater river from ravenous beavers.

Project CHOMP or Cottonwood Habitat Old-growth Management Program, is one of the Merritt flood mitigation team’s active projects aiming to bring back balance to the local ecosystem.

The project takes aim at cottonwood trees, mainly the ones nestled along the coldwater river. Walking down there, one can notice many of them have beaver bite marks through them.

Cottonwoods are some of the fastest growing trees native to North America, growing about around six feet per year through their relatively short 70 to 120 year lifespan according to farmforum.net.

In a document provided to those involved with Project CHOMP, it states “Beavers are known to ‘eat themselves out of house and home.’ During the fall and winter months, they primarily consume woody species such as willows, aspens and cottonwoods.

However, in the spring and summer months, their diet shifts to include grasses and forbs, providing them with a broader range of food sources.”

This means, beavers could eat their way through the riparian habitats along the Coldwater River, disrupting the surrounding ecosystem.

“Where we have these dikes adjacent to the river. There’s no opportunity (for growth) because this path is paved, so trees aren’t coming back in the way they would naturally,” said Alex LaForce, cumulative effects coordinator at Lower Nicola Indian Band and one of the leads on Project CHOMP. A riparian habitat are ecosystems adjacent to ditches, streams, lakes and wetlands according to the B.C. government. The description also states, “The vegetation in riparian areas directly influences and provides important fish habitat.”

LaForce said he’s seen what he thinks is increased beaver activity since the flood.

“I definitely see certain areas that I think are getting a lot more

(beaver) activity. But, it’s kind of natural. Beavers take all the trees in one area and then move downstream in a couple years,” he said.

On Wednesday March 5 a team including LaForce, Merritt’s flood mitigation team, and consultants from the Department of Fisheries, Lower Nicola Indian Band and Nooaitch Band took part conducting the first steps of Project CHOMP, which is to identify which trees needed to be secured.

Trees will primarily be secured using fencing methods as they are more environmentally conscious than using repellant like sand paint.

After identifying the right trees, efforts will be made to contact neighbouring property owners about wrapping the trees and then wrapping trees on their property.

Not all cottonwoods around the Coldwater River will be wrapped. In order to minimize human intervention, it was talked about on the walk that only part of the trees in a group would be wrapped to promote future growth.

Some areas will be left completely natural as well. Namely the site of the STUWI(x) project and the Chapman Oxbow. These areas were deemed natural and had no need for human intervention.

“We’re targeting the areas where we’re not seeing natural succession or natural regeneration,” LaForce said.

“Once they’ve (Beavers) exhausted their food source, they knock down a whole area and then move on to another one. But if they knock down all 20 trees in someone’s front lawn, and nothing’s coming back then, well, those trees aren’t coming back, and they’re not providing shade to the river values for fisheries.”

The trees create necessary shade for a cooler climate for fish to swim in. Their leaves also create vegetation in the river. Another reason for the project is that people just like the shade it provides when walking along the river.

Another priority of the project is to mark ‘Danger Trees’ that risk puts the public and their property at risk if a tree were to collapse.

On the city’s flood mitigation team website, they list that the project could be completed by April.

NICOLA VALLEY

SPORTS

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A15

GOT SPORTS? Contact Laísa or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

MERRITT MISFITS U14 VOLLEYBALL TEAM WINS FIRST TOURNAMENT LAÍSA CONDÉ

editor@merrittherald.com

The Merritt Misfits U14 volleyball team made history this month after securing their first-ever tournament win at an event in Abbotsford.

The victory marks a major milestone for the young program, showcasing the growth and determination of the players and the support of their coaching staff.

The Misfits entered the tournament with confidence, playing three games on Saturday, and finishing undefeated.

Coach Gian Cavaliere praised the team’s performance, saying, “the girls played really well, and we didn’t lose a set on Saturday.

They communicated well and focused on the fundamentals we’ve been practicing. It was great to see that hard work pay off.”

Winning all three games in straight sets placed the Misfits in a strong position for the playoffs. They earned a bye to the semi-finals on Sunday, where they faced a team they had previously lost to at their own home tournament.

Despite losing the first set in a dominant 25-10 defeat, the team regrouped, with Cavaliere telling the players, “you’ve got to be able to handle hardship. We need to win the next two sets.”

The Misfits responded with resilience, winning the second set 25-18 and pulling off a thrilling 19-17 victory in the third set, clinching their spot in the final.

“It wasn’t pretty, but a win is a win,” Cavaliere said. “The girls really dug deep.

They threw their bodies on the floor, they met the expectations I set during timeouts, and they earned that win.”

In the final, the Misfits played against another team they had faced on Saturday.

Once again, it was a three-set match, but the Misfits kept fighting, following Cavaliere’s instructions to always find “that next gear.”

The girls were determined, giving everything they had on the court. In the end, they triumphed 15-12 in the final set, securing the first tournament victory for the program.

“It was a big deal for us as a program,” Cavaliere said. “It’s only our second year, and winning this tournament shows that what we’re doing is working. We’re not just developing volleyball skills; we’re educating the kids about the benefits of being active, eating well, and striving for long-term success.”

For the players, the victory was especially sweet. It validated their commitment and hard work.

“The girls were ecstatic,” said Cavaliere.

“They earned it. They played their hearts out.”

Looking ahead, the Misfits are gearing up for regionals in six weeks, where they’ll aim to continue their success.

“We need to ride this momentum,” Cavaliere explained. “We’ve set high goals for regionals, and the key will be maintaining our focus and commitment to improvement.

This win is a huge confidence booster, but we can’t rest on our laurels.”

In addition to the athletic achievements, Cavaliere emphasized the importance of the relationships built within the team.

“It’s not just about the wins on the court.

It’s about the bonds we’ve created, the leadership the girls are showing, and how they’re helping younger Misfit teams. That’s what will sustain this program long-term.”

For the Misfits, this victory is just the beginning. As the program grows and gains more recognition, the players and coaches alike are excited for the future.

The win not only boosts the profile of the Misfits but also gives the team the confidence to aim higher and continue pushing for excellence both on and off the court.

PHOTOS/MERRITT MISFITS AND LAISA CONDE

Merritt Misfits U14 volleyball team makes history with first tournament win in Abbotsford.

Thank You

To our excellent players and their families, tireless team staff, caring billet families, generous corporate citizens and sponsors, kind-hearted game day volunteers, varied community groups and volunteers that engaged with us, and you, our loyal fans for making year 1 a CENTsational success.

We are ready planning and working towards year 2. Although the season is 7 months the work behind it is ongoing. See you next season!

A16 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

LACROSSE RETURNS TO NICOLA VALLEY FOR 2025 SEASON

LAÍSA CONDÉ

editor@merrittherald.com

After a challenging hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, lacrosse is making its highly anticipated return to the Nicola Valley this spring.

The Nicola Valley Minor Lacrosse Association (NVMLA) is gearing up for a fresh season, with practices and games set to start in early April.

Jason Olney, the newly appointed president of the NVMLA, is excited to revive the sport in the area.

Having taken over from former president Rose Grant, Olney has been working hard to organize the season. Grant, who was instrumental in running the association before stepping back after COVID, has returned as the vice president to offer her expertise and help with the transition.

“Rose has been a huge help,” said Olney.

“She knows everything, from coaches to administration, and she’s been guiding me through the process. We wouldn’t be where we are without her.”

The league will feature players from U7 to U17 in the Thompson-Okanagan area, with teams from Kamloops, Nicola Valley, Kelowna, and Penticton.

The return of lacrosse is being met with widespread enthusiasm, as the community rallies behind the effort to revive the

35

program.

“We’ve been getting a lot of support from everyone I’ve spoken to,” Olney shared.

“People are really happy to see lacrosse back. It’s exciting to see the kids get involved again.”

One of the key goals for Olney is to help the kids develop their skills and fitness.

“I’ve seen kids go from not being able to catch a ball to being able to throw with accuracy and move well on the court,” he said. “It’s satisfying to see their improvement.”

The NVMLA has recently opened registration for the season and is working to spread the word.

Olney, who works with the Indigenous Policing Section, is using his connections with local bands and schools to get the message out.

“We’re trying to make sure everyone knows about the season and gets involved,” he explained. “I’ve been hearing from people who didn’t know it was coming back, so we’re doing our best to reach everyone.”

The season will officially start in early April after spring break, with practices and games being held at Shulus Arena. In the meantime, the association is hosting drop-in lacrosse sessions at Diamondvale gym every Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. to give kids a chance to try the sport before the season

PHOTO/HERALD FILE

The Nicola Valley Minor Lacrosse Association is gearing up to the 2025 season.

begins.

Looking ahead, Olney hopes to see the program grow even further.

“I want to see more kids join, and I’d love to have multiple teams in each age group like they do in Kamloops,” he said. “It’s all about building a strong foundation and turning this into something bigger.”

For those interested in joining, registration is available through the NVMLA website at www.nicolavalleythunder.com. The new registration system is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for families to sign up.

With a dedicated team of volunteers and strong community support, the return of lacrosse to the Nicola Valley is shaping up to be an exciting and successful season.

th Annual Nicola Valley Junior Native HOCKE Y

TOURNA T OURNA MEN T

N O R E E H C H! T U O Y R OU

March 20-23, 2025 In the Beautiful Nicola Valley at the Merritt Arena and Shulus Arena

$5 per day Admission

•U U18 • U U9 • U U11 • U13 • U15

For more information:

250-315-3598 or 250-378-4905 E-m mail: billbose2012@yahoo.com

• Raffles • 50/50 Draws

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A17

MERRITT CENTENNIALS FALL TO REVELSTOKE IN PLAYOFFS SERIES LAÍSA CONDÉ

editor@merrittherald.com

Tuesday, March 4 – Merritt Centennials 3, Revelstoke Grizzlies 2 (OT) The Merritt Centennials came alive in game 4 of their playoffs series against the Revelstoke Grizzlies securing a dramatic 3-2 victory in overtime and keeping their postseason hopes alive.

More than 500 fans gathered at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena to show their support for the Cents, hoping for the team to show resilience and fight for another game.

The Grizzlies, on the other hand, were looking to close out the series with a sweep, and the first period set the stage for a dramatic battle.

It didn’t take long for Merritt to get on the board, as Alex Cordero gave the Centennials an early lead at 5:49 of the first period.

Merritt’s early lead sent their fans into a frenzy, though they knew it was far from secure with the potent offense of the Grizzlies lurking.

As the first period wound down, both teams began to settle into their respective rhythms. Revelstoke tried to answer with some strong offensive push, but Merritt’s defense and goaltending stood tall, keeping the 1-0 lead intact heading into the break.

The middle frame saw a noticeable shift in momentum. Revelstoke took control of the play, pinning Merritt in their own zone for long stretches, but the Centennials’ defense held strong, blocking shots and limiting high-quality chances.

Revelstoke finished the period with 11 shots, but the Merritt netminder Mathis Perron made several key saves to keep the Grizzlies off the board.

The period ended scoreless, and the tension continued to mount as the teams headed into the final 20 minutes with the Cents still clinging to a slim 1-0 advantage.

The third period was where the drama truly unfolded. Just 10:08 into the frame, Merritt extended their lead when Dylan Kruchten found the back of the net to put the Cents up 2-0.

It seemed as though Merritt might finally seize control of the game, but the Grizzlies weren’t going to let the game slip away so easily.

In a stunning twist, Revelstoke answered back quickly. The Grizzlies struck twice in rapid succession, scoring two goals in a span of about 20 seconds to flip the script and tie the game 2-2 heading into the final minutes of regulation.

The game remained deadlocked at 2-2 during a nail-biter overtime, the tension was palpable as both teams gave it their all.

It wasn’t until just 18 seconds before the

overtime buzzer that the Centennials found their moment.

A quick and well-executed play led to the game-winning goal by Maxim Radmanovich, sending the Merritt crowd into a frenzy as the Cents secured their first victory of the series.

The Grizzlies, despite their dominant run so far in the series, were left stunned as Merritt’s resilience shone through in the most critical of moments.

Friday, March 7 - Merritt Centennials 1, Revelstoke Grizzlies 3 The Merritt Centennials’ playoff run came to an end on Friday as they were defeated 4-1 by the Revelstoke Grizzlies in their best-ofseven series.

The loss marks the end of the Centennials’ season, as they fought valiantly but were ultimately outmatched by the Grizzlies in the series.

The first period was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net.

Revelstoke heavily outshot Merritt 17-6, but despite their chances, neither team was able to break the deadlock.

The Centennials’ defense and goaltending kept the Grizzlies at bay through the opening frame, heading into the intermission tied at 0-0.

Merritt’s only goal of the game came in the second period on the power play. At 16:23, Dylan Ruff found the back of the net, with assists from Sam Giangualano and Troy Horn.

The goal gave the Centennials a 1-0 lead, and the team held onto it as the period ended. However, Revelstoke began to gain momentum as the game progressed.

The turning point came in the third period, when Revelstoke scored three unanswered goals. The Grizzlies tied the game at early in the frame with a quick strike and then took the lead at 14:12 with a power-play goal.

With the Centennials pressing late, Revelstoke sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 19:42, securing a 3-1 victory and advancing to the next round of the playoffs.

Looking ahead The Merritt Centennials may have seen their season come to an end in the playoffs, but the work done this year has set the foundation for a promising future.

The Herald recently sat down with General Manager Brad Anstey and Head Coach Wes McLeod to discuss the team’s performance, growth, and plans moving forward.

Reflecting on the season, McLeod was quick to praise the team for their growth, especially considering how young the roster was.

PHOTO/LAISA CONDE

The Merritt Centennials are out of the playoffs after losing 3-1 to the Revelstoke Grizzlies.

“We had to build the team from scratch, and I think we’re ahead of our three-year plan. The on-ice success was obviously important, but I’m especially proud of how the guys connected with the community.

Their involvement in minor hockey and their positive impact on the community were just as important as their performance on the ice.”

McLeod emphasized the team’s growth, both individually and as a unit.

“At the start of the season, we were a group of players who didn’t know each other.

Building trust and establishing a team culture was a challenge. But by the end of the season, we really became a team. When players are willing to play for one another, success naturally follows.”

While the Centennials’ playoff run ended in a series loss to the Revelstoke Grizzlies, McLeod views the experience as a crucial learning opportunity for the young players.

“It took us three games to figure out how to play in the playoffs. Revelstoke, having won championships in recent years, knew what it took. We had to adjust to their level of experience. But those five games we played against them were invaluable for our group. We now know what it takes to win in the playoffs.”

Looking back on the season, McLeod pointed to a key moment in October that helped turn the team’s fortunes around.

“We had a huge win against Revelstoke at home when we came from behind. At that point, we were on a losing streak, and that victory really got us moving in the right direction. It set the tone for the rest of the season,” McLeod noted.

As the Centennials look ahead to next season, both Anstey and McLeod are optimistic about the team’s prospects.

“We have a core of returning players that we can build around, and we’re really excited about that,” McLeod said. “This year, we were just trying to take the best players available. But now, with a solid returning

core, we can be more selective and focus on adding players who fit our culture and needs.”

Anstey echoed those sentiments, stating, “We have a great group of guys with a lot of character. The guys were resilient, always willing to learn, and they got better every day. That’s what makes us excited for next season. We’re ahead of where we thought we’d be, and now it’s about taking that next step.”

For Anstey, a key focus this offseason is player development.

“We’re meeting with our players to talk about their individual goals for the summer and how we can support their growth. We’ll also be doing some recruiting to fill any gaps and ensure we continue building a competitive team,” he said. “But the most important thing is continuing to build our culture and relationships within the community. Our fans, billets, and sponsors have been amazing this season, and we want to give back to them by building a sustainable, successful organization both on and off the ice.”

McLeod added, “Our goal is to make the playoffs again next year and go even deeper into the postseason. We’re focused on developing a team that can compete for a championship while also maintaining a strong presence in the community.”

Both Anstey and McLeod are excited about what’s to come.

“We’re building something special here,” Anstey said. “We’ve had a lot of success this year, but we’re not stopping there. Our goal is to keep growing and get better every day.

I’m confident we have the group to make a real push for the playoffs next season.”

With a strong returning core and a clear focus on growth and development, the Merritt Centennials are poised for success in the years to come. Fans of the team can look forward to a bright future, both on the ice and in the community.

A18 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY

COMMUNITY

New Arrivals of DVDs and Magazines New styles in stock Sizes S - 7X KAMLOOPS: 743 VICTORIA ST • 250-377-8808 Mon-Sat 10-9 | Sun 11-7 CHILLIWACK: 44310 YALE RD • 604-392-9969 Mon-Thu 10-9 | Fri-Sat 10-10 | Sun 12-8

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■

PHOTO/MERRITT YOUTH AND FAMILY RESOURCE SOCIETY

New after-school program hosted by Merritt Youth and Family Resource Society sparks creativity and community for kids in Merritt.

KIDS EXPLORE LIFE SKILLS IN MERRITT’S 1750 Hill Street Phone: 250-315-3000 SCHOOL’S OUT PROGRAM ■

LAISA CONDE

editor@merrittherald.com

A new program is giving kids a chance to unleash their creativty, explore new skills, and connect with their community in the after-school hours.

The School’s Out program, launched by the Merritt Youth and Family Resource Society (MYFRS) in partnership with United Way, is now offering children aged 6 to 12 a safe, engaging space every Monday and Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the MYFRS centre, located at 2199 Coutlee Avenue, until June 26, 2025.

With a focus on life skills, social awareness, and community-building activities, this new initiative is set to make a big impact on the kids.

Lenora Fletcher, executive director of MYFRS, explained that the motivation behind the program is to provide children with a safe, fun, and engaging place to go after school.

“We like to be inclusive of all our children in the areas, to make sure that they have something they can do when their parents have to be at work or elsewhere. It’s about making sure they have a safe place to go,” said Fletcher.

MYFRS has been offering family support services, after-school programs, and childcare for school-aged children, but Fletcher noticed a gap in services as some programs in the community have changed or no longer exist in the same capacity.

As a result, School’s Out was developed to meet this need, providing a space for children aged 6 to 12 to learn and grow.

The program focuses on life and social skill development, with children engaging in a variety of activities.

One example is making cookies and packaging them to share with the community, promoting both creativity and social connection. There are also science-related activities that encourage children to explore and ask

questions about the world around them, such as experimenting with snow and water bottles to see the effects of different temperatures and colours.

Fletcher emphasized that while the activities are fun, they also serve a deeper purpose.

“We’re looking at preparing our children as they move forward. It’s about building life skills and social awareness in a safe and supportive environment,” she said.

To further support families, MYFRS provides transportation to and from local schools using three school buses, including two that were made possible through a partnership with the Variety Children’s Charity.

This service helps alleviate the burden on parents who would otherwise have to manage multiple pick-ups and drop-offs. Fletcher shared that this service is an important part of the program’s accessibility, reducing stress for families and minimizing additional costs.

The funding for the School’s Out program comes from United Way, which has been instrumental in making the program a reality.

United Way’s support covers transportation, activity costs, and even the provision of healthy snacks that are culturally diverse.

“We are looking to offer diversity and inclusivity, whether it’s through cultural foods or activities that reflect the community around us,” Fletcher added.

The program is open to all children aged 6 to 12, and there are no referrals required for participation. MYFRS is also eager to build partnerships with local schools and other organizations to further expand the reach of the program and continue to support the children of the Nicola Valley.

School’s Out runs until June 26, 2025, and MYFRS encourages parents to register their children directly with the centre.

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. • 250-378-3772 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 2114 Nicola Avenue • 250-434-3333 Meets the first Sunday of the month at 10am

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A19

BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED AD – IN PRINT AND ONLINE!

CLASSIFIEDS

Call 250-378-4241

or email: publisher@merrittherald.com Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

DEADLINE: MONDAY at noon. for that week’s paper.

Announcements

Announcements

Obituaries

www.merrittherald.com Help Wanted

Obituaries

Help Wanted

Obituaries

Help Wanted

Obituaries

Obituaries THURSDAY, January Obituaries 18, 2024 A21

Help Wanted

SUDOKU

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting 2 POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Gerald Ian Ingleby

Dennis Crawford

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS NAVIGATOR &

May 6, 1934 - January 30, 2025

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS YOUTH NAVIGATOR March 30, 1967 - March 3, 2025 HOURS: Full Time – 35 hrs/wk

P: 250-280-4040

In Memoriam

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

In Memoriam

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY What loss calls for is not to be fixed or explained, but to be shared and eventually to find its way to meaning.

P: 250-280-1701

Obituaries

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

Obituaries

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Merritt

“You matter toFuneral the last moment of your life, Chapel A Division of Service International (Canada) ULC and we will do all we can,Corporation not only to help you die peacefully, but to live until you die.”

Celebrating each life like no other

Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice REGULAR OFFICE HOURS movement On Call 24 Hours A Day

Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.:

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. www.merritthospice.org Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca P: www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 250-280-1701

2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Please forward Resume and Cover Letter to: Cynthia L. Jager, Social Development Coordinator, cynthia@coldwaterband.org PO Box 4600, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8

ACROSS

One way to share your loss is to attend a grief support group. Merritt Hospice ‘Living with Loss’ support group meets Wednesday evenings.

Call 250-378-3513 for more information.

It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of Dennis “The Menace” Lee Crawford on March 3rd, 2025. Dennis leaves behind his wife Allison and Specific Duties and Responsibilities: his three Taylor, Danica and Ronnie. Hewithis the Coldwater Indian Band Performs all children duties and responsibilities in accordance policies, standards, and procedures, and as directed by the Finance Coordinator. Maintains predeceasedin by his father Clarence, Audrey, brother confidentiality all matters to the affairs ofmother the Coldwater Indian Band.Lester, and sister 1. Provide information and linkage to appropriate community services; Terry.

He and is survived his sister Bonnie andofmany nieces and nephews.

2. Guide motivate by during important periods development in their wellness journey; 3. Accept referrals from Community, Social Workers, other community services and etc.; 4. Dennis Outreach and engagement in the his withmany the community; has many friends from adventures, including his time spent 5. Develop and maintain participant driven integrated wellness plans; 6. Mexico, Advocatesummers for participants’ in riding needs; around in the Jeep or on a dirtbike in his youth, and 7. Support participants to build capacity in areas such as communication, self-advocacy and relationships; spending time with his dog Milo. Dennis was truly one of a kind. He lived his life 8. Participate with team in providing deliverable activities or information.

9. Participate in team meetings; to the fullestaccurate and made sure everyone around him knew it. Throughout the years, 10.

Maintain records; 11. Other related duties as assigned.

Dennis has been known for his individuality and unwavering confidence in not Requirement of Community Connections Navigator only in his beliefs butininSocial himself.

• Diploma or Degree Work (other related fields will be considered); • Experience working with First Nations Community; • No Access to reliable current Driver’s license; formal servicesvehicle will beand held because, frankly, Dennis never liked following • Passable Criminal Record Check and Driver’s Abstract; the crowd. a glass, share and a story and – most importantly – keep • Able andInstead, willing to raise work some evenings weekends.

Deadline forwill submissions: 26th, 2024 things interesting.

The family be hostingJanuary a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

DESCRPTION: Reporting to the Social Development Coordinator, the Community Connections Navigator will be responsible for helping community members navigate challenges while supporting the wellbeing of individuals and families in a holistic manner. The Community Connections Youth Navigator must use a collaborative approach with each community member to support each person in achieving their goals.

DOWN

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

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.

Gerald Ian Ingleby of Penticton, B.C. passed away peacefully on January 30th., 2025 surrounded ANSWERS ON B.C. SEPARATE by loved ones.PUZZLE He was born in Merritt, on May PAGE 6, 1934. Gerry was the beloved husband of Marlene for 65 years. He was a loving parent to Jerri and Art, and a cherished grandparent to Megan and Courtney and a great-grandparent to Myles. Born and raised in Merritt, BC, Gerry spent his childhood skating on Nicola Lake and hunting in the surrounding areas. He began working young at his father’s garage, Ingleby Motors, which he later took over. It became a fixture in Merritt for over 50 years. His commitment to the community was evident through his long-term membership with the Rotary Club, where he contributed meaningfully to local efforts. Later moving to Penticton, Gerry embraced new ventures, eventually running a dry-cleaning store for over 20 years until his retirement at 85. Known for his hard work, kindness, and storytelling, Gerry was a longtime Mason and Shriner, dedicated to raising funds for Shriners Hospital. His greatest joy was his 65-year marriage to Marlene, showcasing a love that was quiet yet profound.

46. and Portuguese city They __ 17. Where 1. Microgram Gerry’s life was a testament torockers anonymous31. kindness, quiet love, a laughter48. Be extremely, 32. College kid on work 4. Where golfers uncritically of vacationGerry is survived 19. Your consciousbegin filled story that seemed as fresh as yesterday. by hisfond loving 49. Resembling old 39. de Armas and ness of your own 7. Each Norse poems are two identity 8. Warm weather wife, Marlene; his daughter, Jerri,fishes and herGasteyer daughters, Megan and Courtney; 50. Ask for out ofand 41.

Part of the human 20. Soft-finned metropolis need body 21. Localities 10. Coat with sticky his great-grandson, Myles.

He is also survived by his son, Artextreme (Monica).

51.

Sino-SovietGerry block 42. A progressive 25. Paddle substance (abbr.) grading 26. Union 12. Girl’s given name 52.

Midway between 43.

Sound unit 27.

Member of reli13.

Myth (Spanish) was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Edith Ingleby; and his brother, south and southeast 44. Noise some birds gious community 14. Ultrahigh fre29. Small shrill flute quency Randall Ingleby. In lieu of flowers, please make consider making a donation to Shriners 45. Abba __, Israeli 30. Small constellation 16. Former NBAer politician in the Milky Way Jeremy Hospitals for Children Canada;1003 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec H4A 40. Popular candy NHL 14. Exclamation: yuck!

1. An insane person 0A9 No service be Aheld.

Please share28. a Bobby laugh__, when remembering as it 44. Partnerhim, to cheese champ resident of 2. __ Boothe Luce, will 15.

47. Wood or metal bolt 29. Prints money Indiana American author 31. Honorable title 18. Exclamation of 3. Buttock muscles would make him smile.

(Turkish) surprise 4. Men’s fashion 32. Appetizers 19. Make a mistake accessory and tributes may be leftbetween for the family 33. Midway 20. Boundary 5. “Hotel CaliforniaCondolences ” north and northwest 22. Antilles island rockers by visiting www.everdenrust.com 34. Spanish be 23. It’s used to make 6. Electronic communication 8. Magnetomotive force (abbr.)

9. Hostelries 11. A way to resound

furniture 24. Clod 27. They indicate where places are

35. Breezed through 36. Grilled dishes 37. In a way, excites 38. Change mind 39. A French abbot

TODAY ' S PUZZ LE A NSW E RS

S

m

9

rg .ca

Help Wanted

A20 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

WE ARE LOOKING FOR AN

ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONAL

TO JOIN OURTEAM! JOB POSTING

AMA7 SWA7 NURSE Full-time Permanent (35 hrs/week)

Ama7 Swa7recognized Nurse is as responsible providing quality home Xwisten Clients Proudly Merritt's BestforBookkeeper/Accountant of thecare 2019,to2020, and 2021 that are referred to the Home and Community Care Program.

People's Choice Awards. It's been our pleasure and privilege to serve our community for over 20

Duties and Responsibilities years and we look forward to bringing another community member to join our office. Attention to • Assists in direct nursing care as required with and for clients to achieve optimum and beingsituations: a team player is paramount. be dependant experience. healthdetail in various chronic disease,Salary acutewill illness, injury, on wound care and palliative care.

• Promotes and provides health related knowledge, treatment services to clients, care givers while supporting independence.

• Perform assessments; evaluations; plans; goals; deliveries; treatment plan or care plan.

• Maintain confidential data records and documentation • Coordinate nursing care services with the client, physician, hospital, rehabilitation, long term care programs and other community services/ programs.

• Coordinate, develop and teach nursing care strategies to assist client and family.

• Provide information and create workshops regarding health related issues and preventative measures as needed.

• Maintain financial records and budget • ESDRT (Service Delivery Reporting Template) reports to FNHA monthly

RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FOLLOWING:

- Maintain general ledgers and financial statements.

- Calculate and prepare cheques for payroll.

- Prepare other statistical, financial, and accounting reports.

Qualifications: • Graduated from an approved school of nursing and must hold a current Registered Nurse License with the British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP) or Licenced Practical Nurse License (LPN) • Knowledge of cultural safety principles, working within First Nation's Health and Social Development areas • Criminal Record Check: Vulnerable Sector • Valid Driver's License: Reliable Vehicle • Excellent communication skills - written and verbal; • Ability to develop and maintain budgets, and do financial and administrative reporting; Please email resume to cjrbook@telus.net, • Filing and record keeping skills; • Experience supervising other employees or mail to Attn. Connie Rauch (Owner)

- Keep financial records and establish, maintain, and balance various accounts using Sage 50.

- Must be efficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.

CJR Bookkeeping & Tax Services Inc. Wage: $42.00 to $48.00 per hour minimum and2402. depending uponV1K experience.

PO Box Merritt, BC. 1B8 While Posting Closing Date: March 28, 2025

we welcome all candidates, only those selected for an interview will be contacted

Please do not contact by phone.

Forward Resumes to: Gary Forsyth, Administrator

JOB POSTINGS

www.merrittherald.com Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

HEADSTART/DAYCARE MANAGER

Full Time Permanent Position Coldwater Indian Band WageJob $30-$35Posting hr.

Reporting to the Health Manager, the Administrator will be responsible primarily 2 POSITIONS AVAILABLE for the overall Supervision of the Headstart/Daycare program. This includes and understanding to staff CONNECTIONS supervision and scheduling, ensuring all licensing, COMMUNITY NAVIGATOR & and reporting requirements are being met, and ensuring a quality land-based COMMUNITY YOUTH NAVIGATOR program is being offeredCONNECTIONS to children and families.

HOURS: Full Time – 35 hrs/wk

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR

DESCRPTION: Reporting to the Social Development Coordinator, the Community Connections FullforTime Permanent Navigator will be responsible helping community Position members navigate challenges while supporting the wellbeing of individuals and families in a holistic manner. The Community Wage $23-$25 hr.

Connections Youth Navigator must use a collaborative approach with each community member to support each person in achieving their goals. is seeking an individual to commit to Bridge River Head Start / Daycare Program Specific Duties andquality Responsibilities: providing high care to children aged 0-6 years with interest in working Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Coldwater Indian Band in a unique program and ensuring that there is use of best practice provided policies, standards, and procedures, and as directed by the Finance Coordinator. Maintains during the program delivery. confidentiality in all matters to the affairs of the Coldwater Indian Band.

1. Provide information and linkage to appropriate community services; 2. Guide and motivate during important periods of development in their wellness journey; 3. Accept referrals from Community, Social Workers, other community services and etc.; 4. Outreach and engagement in the with the community; (35 Hrs.driven per week – Flexible Hours) 5. Develop andFull-Time maintain participant integrated wellness plans; 6. Advocate for participants’ needs; Wage $21-$27 hr.

7. Support participants to build capacity in areas such as communication, self-advocacy relationships; and Working as a member of the Ama7 Swa7 Home & Community Care Program, 8. Participate with team in providing deliverable activities or information.

Under the direction of Home and Community Care Nurse, the successful 9. Participate in team meetings; 10. Maintain accurate records; candidate will provide delegation of tasks set out by HCCN around personal care 11. Other related duties as assigned.

HOME COMMUNITY CARE WORKER - HCCP

to clients living at home on reserve. In this role, you will travel to homes where

Requirement of Community Connections Navigator clients require personal care. Daily/ Weekly Journaling are to be submitted • Diploma or Degree in Social Work (other related fields will Logs be considered); Experience with First Nations Community; to•HCCN as perworking client list.

• Access to reliable vehicle and current Driver’s license; • Passable Criminal Record Check and Driver’s Abstract; • Able and willing to work some evenings Only those short listed willand beweekends. contacted and to apply

submit resumes andforcover letter: Gary Forsyth, Administrator Deadline submissions: January 26th, 2024 Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Fax: 250-256-7999 E-mail: administrator@xwisten.ca Please forward Resume and Cover Letter to: Deadline: Open cynthia@coldwaterband.org until filled Cynthia L. Jager, Social Development Coordinator, PO Box 4600, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8

ACROSS

er

Help Wanted

PO Box 190 Lillooet BC VOK 1VO Fax: (250) 256-7999

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.

DOWN

ULC

Help Wanted

s

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A21

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Legal/Public Notices

Help Wanted

www.merrittherald.com Legal/Public Notices Legal/Public Notices Legal/Public Notices

Legal/Public Notices

BETWEEN:

Legal/Public Notices

FORM 10 (Rule 4-4(3)) Court File No. 30539 Cranbrook Registry In the Supreme Court of British Columbia

AND:

VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT

THE TORONTO-DOMINION BANK CHRISTOPHER HOWSE MICHELLE HOWSE TENANTS IN THE PROPERTY

PETITIONER

Catch your next job in our employment section.

Land Act: Notice of Application for ADVERTISEMENT a Disposi[Rule 22-3 of the Supreme Court Civil Rules applies to all forms.]

PRODUCTION WORKERS tion of Crown Land(FT/PT) To: The respondent, Michelle Howse • Wages: starting $20 to $28

RESPONDENTS

TAKE NOTICE THAT on July 11, 2024, an order was made for service on you of

(depends on experience attendance) a noticefrom of application, filed December 7, 2023, and Affidavit #1 of Christopher Take notice that Water&Boy Trucking Ltd. Merritt BC has applied • Steady day shift work Howse, filed December 7, 2023, issued from the Cranbrook Registry of the to the British Columbia Ministry of Forests (FOR), Thompson-OkanaSupreme Court of British Columbia in proceeding no. 30539 by way of this • Students welcome to apply advertisement. gan for an expansion necessary of an existing rock quarry situated on Provincial • No experience Crown Land• located over unsurveyed Crown between District In the proceeding, theland applicant, Christopher Howse, claims the following relief: Will train 1. An order that the Minister of Finance shall pay to the applicant $16,937.59 Lots 4426 and 4427, Kamloops Division Yale District (KDYD). plus any accrued interest from the funds paid into court in this proceeding

TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1

on September 7, 2023.

FOR invites comments on this application. The Lands file is File Local steady work You must file an application response within the period required under the Number 3410347. Written comments concerning this application Supreme Court Civil.

LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS should be directed to the Senior LandRules Officer, Thompson Okanagan, failing which further proceedings, including judgment, may be taken FOR at 441 Columbia Street, Kamloops BC V2C 2T3.

Comments will against you without notice to you.

Excellent medical & dental plan be PLEASE received SUBMIT

by FOR up to February 26, 2024. may not be able You may obtain fromFOR the Cranbrook Registry, at #102 – 11th Avenue South, RESUME Cranbrook, BC, a copy of the notice of application filedAppliDecember 7, 2023, to consider comments received after this date.

Please visit the IN PERSON TO Affidavit #1 of Christopher Howse filed December 7, 2023, and the order cations, Comments and Reasons for providing Decision website at for service byDatabase this advertisement.

1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.

250-378-6161 This advertisement is placed by the applicant, Christopher Howse, whose address for service is:

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be consid1871 Bowes Street Kelowna, BC V1Y 3B9 ered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the Legal/Public Notices Legal/Public Notices Legal/Public Notices E-mail: howse.christopherj@gmail.com submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http:// www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI ASPEN PLANERS submissions.

Forest Operations Map, Public Notice Please be advised that Aspen Planers has published a FOM which is publically available for review and comment. A FOM depicts the locations where harvesting and /or road construction may occur. The Public may access and review the map the following ways during the period of March 15, 2025 - To April 13, 2025 In person at Aspens place of business located at 1375 Houston street during normal operating hours of 8:00 am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday.

Online at https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects Public review and comment begins on March 14, 2025 and ends April 13, 2025. Those wishing to submit comments may do so the following ways By accessing the FOM website listed above and providing comments through the online public website.

By personal delivery at the physical address listed above, during normal operating hours.

By mail c/o Planning forester, Aspen Planers Ltd, PO Box 160, 1375 Houston Street, Merritt BC V1k 1B8 By email at apfom@apgroup.ca This notice is applicable to the following projects listed below.

Aspen Planers may rely upon these maps for three years commencing on April 13, 2025 for the purpose of applying for a cutting authority or for a road permit.

FOM Name

Geographic Location

FOM-Merritt-Mar25

Cascades FOM ID : 2222

To advertise in To advertise in Employment Employment call 604-630-3300 Call 250-378-4241

SUDOKU

You Want It We’ve Got It

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.

Find Whatever You’re Looking for in the Classifieds.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

A22 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

Local

JANITORIAL SERVICES

SED CANNABIS EN C LI S LT U S E R S S SPOTLE

l | High Touch Touch-Ups Office Buildings | Specialty Residentia a Cannabis Co. en ch il Qu ial ustr Ind and s ice Serv g rdin Post Construction | Hoa

FRESH NEW LOOKESS?ER

n.com

525-0262

n.com • 250info@coldcreekclea

SKILLED HAIRDR BRANDY, a DEDICATED and ry cut, color, and style

Quilchena Canna Company

Call 250-378-5 420

MU

www.coldcreekclea

HAIRDRESSER LOOKING FOR A

S T BE

19+

tt BC

Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merri

VETERINARY CLINIC

who takes great care in eve attention to detail ensure she delivers. Her focus and ing their best. With a feel es that every client leav work, Brandy always her to h roac app ul thoughtf making sure they’re ds, nee nts’ prioritizes her clie the results. comfortable and satisfied with

l who truly cares If you’re looking for a professiona one to trust! the is dy Bran , hair r you about

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW With

DOWN

ACROSS

Clinic Kamloops Veterinarrey People who ca 1. Unsheared sheep 5. Rock TV channel 8. Streetcar 12. Concerning 14. Expression of recognition 15. Greek goddess of youth 16. An iPad is one 18. Adult beverage 19. Manning and Wallach are two 1. Works of body art 2. Abba __, Israeli politician 3. A desert in Asia 4. Eat greedily 5. Doomed French queen 6. Beat 7. One who survives on blood 8. As a consequence 9. Counted on 10. Acquired Brain Injury Behavior Science 11. Unclean

ion Award-winning compan animal hospital serving 20. Makes a petty verbal 39.

Cub ding57. Fortune Kamloops and surroun attack 42.

Type of sea bass 58. Hunting expedition . areas since 1968

21. Tyrion Lannister’s nickname 22. Pointed ends of pens 23. Wristwatches 26. Body part 30. Made a mistake 31. Adjusted 32. Turkish honorific title 33. Yell 34. Historic Alabama city

dish 59. Doomed queen 44. To call (archaic) at... Boleyn ntact us 46. Co Unfortunate 60. Peyton’s little brother 4-1485 61. Type of wrap 0-37oneself 47.25 Separate from others 62. Scottish tax 49. Hero sandwiches 63. Soviet Socialist 50. Former OSS Republic 51. Open spaces in a 64. An increase in price forest or value 56. Innermost brain membranes

13. One who does not drink 17. Wild ox of the Malay Archipelago 24. __ student, learns healing 25. Bacterial skin infection 26. Expresses surprise 27. What one says on a wedding day 28. Crony 29. Where you entered the world (abbr.)

35. Unit of length

36. Side that is sheltered from the wind 37. More (Spanish) 38. Autonomic nervous system 40. Violent troublemakers, originally in Paris 41. Statements that something is untrue 42. Greek alphabet letter 43. Suspends from above 44. Popular types of cigars 45. Girls

47. U.S. philosopher and logician 48. Nocturnal hoofed animal 49. Relaxing spaces 52. From a distance 53. Form of Persian 54. Amounts of time 55. Trigonometric function

BRANDY MIKITA OPEN: Tuesday to Friday

Kruse N’ Style

, Merritt, BC 1990 Quilchena Avenue Phone: 250-378-6664

ADVERTISING

Are you expand ing your client base ?

Looking for an a ccessible way for people to find you?

JOIN the Herald’s

“Loc Every Thursday, al Business Directory” page Always Full Colou r! *with minimum 1 Reach over 5000 month committment readers each we ek.

Contact Theres a at 250-378-42 41 or Email: publisher @merrittherald. com

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | A23

BUSINESS DIRECTORY TREE SERVICE

JIM POT TER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE

• Fully insu red, cert ified falle r • WSB C cove red • Dan gero us tree asse ssm ent ➤Schedule your FREE Estimate

CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

HOME RENOVATIONS

TIObinNetsS NOcuVA KOR HOspeMciaElizRE ing in stom ca Mark Koroll

Owner & Operator

Cell: 250-280-1355 L & FINISH • TILE • FRAME • DRYWAL • HARDWOOD TE • LAMINA

Solutions for your tree problems!

TREE REMOVAL SERVICES SERVICES WE OFFER: • Tree Removal • Tree Topping • FREE Quotes

Serv ing Mer ritt & Surr oun ding area FUL LY INS URE D/W CB COV ERE D

C e r t if ie d F a ll e r

BC TREE SOLUTIONS

Call Darel at 250-315-8516

PLUMBING & HEATING EXCAVATING

e Gary ’s Mini Excavating Servic • Small Job Specialist • Dump Trailer Service • Fencing & Post Pounder • Fully Insured l.com email: garylsedore@gmai

N ic ol a P lu m bi ng & H ea ti ng

FULLY QUALIFIED TRADESMAN IN:

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.

Service work, furnace service and custom sheet

metal.

today!

Certified Plumbers & Gas Fitters wanted - apply

www.nicolaplumbingandheating.com email: nicplumb@telus.net 206 4 Coutlee Ave.

TSBC Licence #LGA00 02534

Ph: 250-378-4943

Cell: 250-315-3174

250-378-4312 Call Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMATES:

VINTAGE CAR CLUB

ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE HERE FOR YOU!

Chapter

Join us

obiles Rev up your passion for vintage autom while past the into drive to us join and lifetime! building friendships that will last a

@DanAlbas

78-2672

Contact Kim Jurreit 250-3

Transform your bathroom & shower with EXPERT, complete solutions.

EXPERT home renovations with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail!

ADVERTISING

Are you expanding your client base?

Looking for an accessible way for people to find you?

Toll Free: 1-80 0-665-8711 www.danalbas.com

Owning a Vintage Car optional.

Park Family Contracting

For FREE estimates call 604-760-0145

VINTAGE CAR CLUB OF CANADA - Merritt

HOME RENOVATIONS

DanAlbas4COSN

tory” page Every Thursday, *with minimum 1 month committment week.

Reach over 5000 readers each

Business Direc JOIN the Herald’s “Local Always Full Colour!

or Contact Theresa at 250-378-4241 com ald. ther errit r@m lishe pub il: Ema

A24 | THURSDAY, March 13, 2025 | www.merrittherald.com

A SUCCESSFUL INAUGURAL SEASON FOR OUR EXPANSION TEAM! The first season for our new expansion team has wrapped up, leaving behind a legacy of positive impact on the community.

As the second-youngest team in the league, they secured an impressive third-place finish with 57 points in the most difficult Bill Ohlhausen Division; and a 648 winning percentage, good for 7th place in a 21 team league.

Attendance grew, and the energy in the arena was unmistakable. The support from the community and local businesses was strong—just look at the sold-out crowd at the Awards Banquet!

When the Centennial organization first arrived, some influential hockey citizens noted that the Centennials hadn’t been fully involved in the community in previous years. Along with their winning way, the Centennials proved that they’re here to also change that narrative.

Their dedication to community engagement was clear through a wide range of activities that included: • Annual Golf Tournament • Rodeo Parade and Weekend Event • Truth and Reconciliation Game Night • Terry Fox Run • Indigenous Orange T-Shirt Walk • Stock Car Races • Christmas Hamper Drive with the High School • Centennial Arena Hamper Drive • Merritt Literacy Night • Hockey Fights Cancer Night • Girl Guide Cookie Drive • NVIT Night • Minor Hockey Night • Meet and Greet at Local Businesses

• Boston Pizza Player Fundraiser • ELKS Bingo Fundraiser for Player • Recognition of BCHL Long-Service Volunteers • On-Ice Coaching Support for MHA Teams • Engagement with Cadets, Figure Skaters, Community Choir, Seniors, and Stock Cars • Sold-Out Awards Banquet • Gift Wrapping at Markets • Annual Ice Breaker • Legion Camp Shutdown • Billet Appreciation Night • Mothers’ Weekend • Fathers’ Weekend • Game Day Volunteers’ Appreciation Night

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO ALL THE COMMUNITY OF MERRITT! This season’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the support of so many. A sincere thank you to our talented players and their committed families, tireless team staff, caring billet families, generous corporate citizens and sponsors, kind-hearted game day volunteers, and the various community groups and volunteers who engaged with us.

And, of course, a special thank you to you, our loyal fans, for making year one a CENTsational success!

We are already planning and working towards year two.

Although the season lasts eight months, the work behind it is ongoing.

WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU NEXT SEASON FOR ANOTHER CENTsational YEAR!