Merritt Herald May 23, 2024

Fundraiser set to aid local’s recovery after suffering stroke

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Anna-Lea’s Road to Recovery GoFundMe charity for stroke victim.

On May 6, Anna-Lea Holstein suffered from a stroke shortly after moving into her first house with her boyfriend Nathan Kinley.

Her mother-in-law Jane Hauser quickly set up a GoFundMe page with the goal of reaching $20,000 to help support Holstein and Kinley.

now. I also know times are tough right now for everyone, which made me hesitant to even reach out but even if you could share this story I would be so grateful,” the post continues.

Hauser credits Kinley for his “fast action she is still here with us today.”

“Nathan has been by Anna’s side every minute. Be that chasing the ambulance to Kamloops then through a snow storm to be with her so she’s not afraid or to charming the nurses so they let him sleep in a chair beside her bed. He’s been beside her every step of the way.”

LAUNDROMAT CLOSES /PAGE 3

LOCAL TALENT

Two Merrittonians have committed to the Cents for upcoming season.

/PAGE 13 Merrittonians left scrambling for solutions after laundromat closes.

“Rent and bills are still going to be due, and living out of a back pack at the hospital is so expensive and for them to have to worry about money right now breaks my heart,” reads Hauser’s GoFundMe.

“Any amount of financial help will be forever appreciated to help Nathan and Anna have a little bit less to worry about right

At the time of publishing, $3,025 had raised. Those interested in donating can visit Anna-Lea’s Road to Recovery on gofundme.com/f/annaleasroad-to-recovery or contact Jane Hauser directly.

Photo/Anna-Lea Holstein’s GoFundMe

City of Merritt to apply for two UBCM grants

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

City of Merritt to apply for two Union of B.C. Municipalities grants.

At the May 15 regular council meeting, a resolution to apply for the UBCM Asset Management Planning grant and the Infrastructure Planning Grant Program.

The Asset Management Planning grant will pay half of the eligible costs up to a maximum of $25,000 to support City asset management work in 2024, whilst the Infrastructure Planning Grant Program provides up to $10,000 to support local governments in developing or improving long term comprehensive plans.

The City of Merritt is intending to submit three applications under the Infrastructure Planning Grant Program for a total of $30,000.

“We’re going after two different grant streams to try and accomplish some of the asset management work,”

said City of Merritt chief financial officer Kevin Natkinniemi during the council meeting.

“The first one got submitted last week based on email correspondence, the second one is related to that in terms of the level of information we have to gather about city infrastructure above ground, below ground, to be able to do all the asset management scope of work this year. So the intention is to try and wherever possible and leave some of that money in that reserve for future projects.”

If all applications are approved, the City will receive $25,000 from the Asset Management Planning grant and $30,000 from the Infrastructure Planning Grant Program for a total of $55,000 from UBCM.

“This is reducing the burden on that gas tax reserve and trying to preserve its use for other projects,” said Natkinniemi. Currently, the City’s gas tax reserves sit at $3 million.

Photo/Herald file

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

End of an Era: Merritt Laundromat closes

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Merrittonians left without laundry services after the local laundromat closed its doors.

For over 50 years, the Merritt Dry Cleaning and Coin Laundry has served Merrittonians until its closure last week.

The laundromat was not just a place to do laundry, it was a part of the fabric of the town, providing an essential service to residents without a laundry machine at home, adorned with over 280 portraits of Canadian and international country musicians.

“It is almost worth it to have dirty clothes when visiting and exploring in the Nicola Valley,” reads a 2019 Experience Nicola Valley article on the laundromat.

The Herald conducted a survey through the ‘Merritt grapevine’ Facebook group to see how Merrittonians felt about laundromat’s

closure.

“We need another laundromat right away, where are 200 to 400 people to go and get fresh clean clothes?” asked Doreen Hewitt Sheena.

“Another business gone and no replacement. These businesses are not easy to start up due to environmental issues,” said Georgia Clement. “Every town should have one! What about all the people camping here in the summer, bet they need a laundromat too.”

The survey received an additional 20 comment responses echoing similar sentiments.

Currently, Kamloops and Kelowna are the closest places with laundromats available to those without a laundry machine at home. After seeing the Herald’s post, Merritt residents Cherylle Douglas and Terri Norum reached out directly to comment further on the matter.

“I have been left without a place to do any laundry, after the flood and

losing my home, I had to move into a motorhome,” said Douglas. “Although I can drive, I cannot afford to go to Kamloops.”

“I had offered to go work for the new owners but never heard back, and then recently I saw it was shutting down,” added Douglas. “I was not a happy person as this will affect me both mentally and physically.”

Norrum and her husband have been patrons at the laundromat for eight years. “I am at a total loss as to why the business has closed down,” said Norrum.

“The current owners should be ashamed of themselves for depriving this town of essential service,” Norrum added. “As a senior, I will not be going out of town to do my laundry every week as it is far too costly. Can only hope that someone will open another laundromat in town in the very near future.”

Photo/Ryan Hamman

new fire and library contracts

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District has approved a fire service agreement in Merritt, library deliveries and six grants at the latest board of directors meeting.

The board unanimously approved the TNRD entering into a new, five-year, $1,547,833 contract with the City of Merritt to provide fire protection service in portions of Electoral Areas M (Beautiful Nicola Valley-North) and N (Beautiful Nicola Valley-South) near Merritt.

The previous one-year agreement expired last year.

The estimated tax rate is $0.48 per $100,000 of assessed value for the 482 properties in this fire protection service area, which is a 16 per cent decrease in cost to property owners compared to 2023, a TNRD press release stated. The contract will see the TNRD make payments in the $300,000 range made to the Merritt Fire through 2028.

The board also unanimously approved a five-year contract for intra-library delivery services for the Thompson-Nicola Regional Library. The contract was awarded to Load Warrior Logistics at a value of $399,146, which will commence on July 1.

The contract will involve transporting and delivering library materials from library administration in the TNRD Civic Building in Kamloops to other TNRL libraries around the regional district.

TNRL has used commercial couriers to shuttle materials since 2004.

On Dec. 31, 2022, the contract with the

primary delivery courier expired, and the latest of two subsequent contract extensions put in place was set to expire on June 30.

A TNRD staff report said the contract was awarded to Load Warrior Logistics for maintaining the existing level of service, and as its proposal was the lowest bid received.

The board approved six regional grants and sponsorship requests for the spring 2024 intake for a total of $25,000 on the basis of a weighted average score, factoring in things such as community impact and strategic importance of the grant.

The Kamloops International Buskers Festival Society received the full $5,000 it requested to host the 2024 event in Riverside Park, while the Kamloops Exhibition Association received its full $5,000 request to help with expenses for the 2024 Provincial Winter Fair on Sept. 23.

Twisted Desert Music Society was given $4,325 of a $5,000 request for their production of Fiddler on the Roof in Ashcroft, Spences Bridge Community Club received $3,925 of a $5,000 ask for the 2024 Desert Daze Music Festival this September.

Project X theatre Productions Society received their full $3,500 request for their annual Theatre Under the Trees outdoor summer event and the Pritchard Community Association received their full $3,250 ask in funding to put towards the annual Pritchard Rodeo on July 13 and July 14.

In total the program received 19 applications.

Michael Potestio CASTANET

Photo/Herald file

By Robert Moretti

OPINION

TEGART: Preparing for Wildfire Season

Each year, those of us in the Fraser-Nicola face the devastating impacts of wildfires, and each year we see incredible strength and resiliency demonstrated by our communities. Since 2021, residents of Lytton have been displaced, but I am hopeful

that the recent announcement of the Auditor General’s investigation into Lytton’s recovery efforts will help hold government accountable and eventually force action that would allow families return home.

However, we must brace ourselves for another challenging summer. While it is only May, British Columbia already faces 132 active wildfires, with 32 declared in the past week alone. We must be prepared to support one another, check in in our neighbours, and ensure everyone gets to safety in the worst-case scenario of an evacuation order.

Every British Columbian must be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Ensure your vehicles are fueled,

charged, and prepared to travel long distances if required. Keep your essential items readily accessible and be prepared to evacuate when needed.

B.C. cannot continue to face wildfires that grow in intensity and burn more of our province each year with the same failed bureaucratic approach. It’s time for B.C. to re-evaluate current wildfire management practices and make changes so we can put fires out before they harm communities.

Recognizing this need, Kevin Falcon and BC United has put forward a bold plan to reform British Columbia’s wildfire response, prevention measures, and recovery strategies. We will modernize current fire response strategies and focus on

utilizing made-in-B.C. technological solutions, invest in water suppression technologies, and increase spending on prevention measures. We will also focus on better utilizing the resources and expertise of First Nations, volunteer fire response teams, and community members who know the community and land best.

I want to thank the BC Wildlife Service, volunteer fire response teams, and locals on the ground for all the hard work they do fighting wildfires each year. Our community has shown incredible strength in the past, and I am certain we will continue to support one another this upcoming wildfire season.

DIXON: Investing in Your health: The Foundation of True Wealth

In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, in the pursuit of financial success and material possessions, it’s easy to overlook the most fundamental aspect of our existence: health. Yet, as the age-old adage goes, “Health is Wealth,” and investing in it should be our top priority. But

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what does this investment look like? Surprisingly, it’s simpler than one might think.

First and foremost, hydration is key. Drinking water isn’t just a mundane task; it’s a cornerstone of good health. Our bodies depend on water for countless vital functions, from regulating temperature to aiding digestion. It’s the elixir of life, so make sure to keep those water bottles handy. To[: Add a pinch of Celtic sea salt to the first glass of the day.

Equally important is nourishing our bodies with wholesome, nutritious food. Food isn’t just fuel; it’s medicine. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide your

body with the nutrients it craves. Movement is medicine too. Regular exercise not only strengthens our muscles and bones but also boosts our mood and cognitive function. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or hitting the gym, find activities that you enjoy and make them a part of your routine.

Sunshine is nature’s vitamin D supplement. Spend some time outdoors soaking up the sun’s rays (in moderation ) to promote bone health and uplift your spirits.

Mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Take time to reflect on your thoughts and emotions through journaling.

Cultivate meaningful relationships that bring joy and support into your life. After all, connections are the fabric of our wellbeing.

In embracing these simple practices, we embody the wisdom of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s timeless quote: “The first wealth is health.” True wealth isn’t measured in bank accounts or possessions; it’s found in the vitality of body and mind. So, let’s invest wisely. Let’s invest in our health. Let’s have a healthy conversation email me at heartnotes2@gmail. com or text me at 604-314-9233

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Monda y, June 24 7:00 PM

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Tickets: $15/ $50FamilyRate

From the Herald archives: May, 2008

Fees rising The Youth BoControversy flared in city council over new garbage plans for the city.Merritt city council heard a presentation on May 13 from the ThompsonNicola Regional District (TNRD) about revamped waste collection practices, and some councillors raised concerns over rising costs for the city.

LETTERS POLICY

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.

JACKIE TEGART VIEW FROM LEGISLATURE

BONNIE DIXON HEALTHY CONVERSATIONS

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

AC/DC tribute band to perform in Merritt

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Rock or Bust to perform at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena on May 31.

AC/DC tribute band Rock or Bust to play a charity concert at the Memorial Arena on May 31 at 7:30 p.m.

The band was started by vocalist Kim Kahl in 2019 and consists of lead guitarist Len Osanic as Angus Young, rhythm guitar player Robert Graves as Malcolm Young, bass guitarist Red Savage as Cliff Williams, and drummer Rod Senft as Phil Rudd.

“They’re just hardcore players, they just love to play but you got to have the right guys to do what we’re doing,” said Kahl. On the stage, Kahl likes to sing Shoot to Thrill and Through The Mists of Time. “All of them are really good hits, we play a lot of good hits, but I’d probably say out of those two, yeah they’re good, I like them,” said Kahl.

Kahl’s favourite AC/DC album is Back in Black.

Rock or Bust first came to Merritt last year on the road promoting a gig. Whilst making a stop at the Grand Pub & Grill,

Kahl was making small talk and someone suggested Rock or Bust perform in Merritt.

“So our way to do what we’re doing and on the way back home at the time to Abbotsford, I got on the phone the next day and I started talking to the City and saying, hey, you know, I’d like to rent your arena, throw on a show,” recounted Kahl.

“So we did it and the turnout was fantastic, the people loved it, and we thought ‘hey, let’s put this back on the radar for this year,’ and we incorporated Clinton Arena as well the night before America, and we made a little mini or interim deal, so now we’re coming back.”

Last year, Rock or Bust got some prop updates, most notably a firing cannon and a bell that swings from the ceiling.

“When we come to these places, we want to give people the experience that, hey, they’ve come to spend their money and they leaving going “holy s*** that was amazing, that’s as close as it’s going to get to seeing AC/DC,” and that’s what we’re trying to give them,” said Kahl.

Proceeds from the concert will go towards the Merritt Centennials.

Merritt local and Kelowna band at Cactus Annie’s

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Local musician Barry Linberg and Kelowna-based band Wheelhouse to perform live in Merritt.

The show is set for May 24 at 7:30 p.m., at Cactus Annie’s.

Merrittonians can expect a great party and great music, said Cactus Annie’s comanager Derek Mosley.

“If you love Chick Jagger and The Rolling Tones, you’re gonna love Wheelhouse, that’s what every single person that listens to Wheelhouse, they’re

gonna rock the house,” he added.

“And I know for a fact Barry Linberg is gonna do a good show because I’ve already been to a few of his shows, he’s already played at our place.”

Mosley hopes to bring back more music to Merritt. “We want music to be at the Legion, we want music to be at the Coldwater, Mr. Mike’s, we have involvement with them,” said Mosley.

“We want more music to come to town, more bigger bands, we can get (to) come in and play, it’s not just these

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

First Night Market’s are back for the summer

reporter@merrittherald.com

First Friday Downtown Market has returned for the summer.

Live entertainment, food trucks, homemade crafts, family activities, and more will be coming to Spirit Square and Quilchena Avenue.

This past Friday, May 17, a few Merrittonians enjoyed their night at this year’s First Friday Downtown Market. For those who missed the opportunity to engage in some fun activities after work, there is still a chance to catch up on the next dates as the night markets are set be on the first Friday of each upcoming month – that being June 7, July 5, Aug. 2, and Sept. 6.

“We are hoping to incorporate the entire downtown business center in our

markets,” said Merritt & District Chamber of Commerce project coordinator Laurie Turmel.

“Years ago Friday night shopping was the thing to do in Merritt, families would head into town and do their grocery or household shopping and then go for dinner, it was a family event that everyone looked forward to. We are hoping to bring this Friday night feeling back,” she continued.

The night market will fill up Spirit Square and close off the 2000 block of Quilchena Avenue.

“We have many businesses staying

Have a good time

From Page 9

other bands playing at all these little smaller venues in town, you know, if we can bring you know the town together in depth,” said Mosley.

“I just hope every comes out and supports us, ‘cause the more you us, more we can support the town and have a nice place for everyone to say ‘hey, it’s that Saturday of the month, let’s go out and have a good time at Cactus Annie’s, (they’ve) got another incredible band,’ like I want our place to be known as that place,” said Mosley.

Beyond music and entertainment, Mosley’s main priority is the patrons. “We just want everybody to come in and be smiling because, you know, I walk people to their cars, we make sure everybody’s safe, if one of us can drive you, we will like, it’s not just the taxi will call for you, one of us can leave, we drive people home, we’re trying our hardest, to make it a safe place for everybody to be”

open late and having sidewalk sales and a great lineup of vendors, we also have super entertainment scheduled,” said Turmel.

People or businesses who wish to become a vendor or participate in the night market are encouraged to reach out to the Merritt & District Chamber of Commerce.

PLUMBING &HEATING

Photo/Herald file Kenneth Wong

Safe haven for chronic ill patients

Photo/Andrea Piacquadio

Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com

Local event creates safe haven for people who suffer chronic illnesses or pain in Merritt.

Merrittonians are invited to join ‘Healing Connections’, an event that aims to serve as an opportunity for individuals living with chronic illnesses or pain to share their experiences, offer mutual support and build a sense of community.

In addition to networking and mingling, the event will also promote resources and presentations, caregiver and grieving supports, creative workshops and refreshments. The free event will take place at Nicola Valley Arts Centre, on Saturday, June 8, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Marius Auer, organizer of ‘Healing Connections’, said that he came up with the idea after he was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease.

“Going through the journey of like treatment and accepting that and trying to find the resources locally here, I just noticed that there wasn’t a lot, especially in-person support,” he added. “I thought it would be nice to have something locally for everyone to

access.”

Auer also highlighted the importance of talking about chronic illnesses and pain.

“I think it affects pretty much everyone directly or indirectly. Multiple members of my family have chronic illnesses or chronic pain as part of their life and I know a lot of people in the community do too and it’s something we need to address,” he said.

According to Auer, there’s still a lot of stigma surrounding chronic illnesses and pain.

“I think it’s something that a lot of people just get told, you kind of have to deal with it,” he explained. “I think talking about it and being able to acknowledge and say ‘yeah, this is a big part of my life and I need help with it’, I think that’s important.”

He hopes the event inspires ongoing support and resilience within the community.

“I just hope people feel supported and then I guess understood in a way that they know that there’s connections here locally,” Auer added. “I would love this to be the launching point for people of some sort of like a regular support group.”

TRU Law school looking to partner with communities for practical experience

Josh Dawson CASTANET

As Thompson Rivers University’s inaugural law class celebrates the 10-year anniversary of its graduation, the school says it’s still working to fulfill its mission to produce lawyers for small communities.

TRU Law’s dean Daleen Millard said the school has always sought to be innovative throughout it’s 14-year history, including a goal of populating communities in the Interior with law students and lawyers.

“The idea is to see where we can partner with community in Williams Lake, Lillooet, Barriere, Salmon Arm, Merritt, to really also show students how to work in communities and to really provide better opportunities for legal representation,” Millard said.

“Looking at ways to also place students in those remote areas, to learn from community lawyers, I think that’s definitely one of the things that we would like to achieve.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the project, Millard said she felt it was still a “very important project.”

“My specific objective will be to create those opportunities where students can actually work remotely, and even go into summer programs in some of our remote regions to see the opportunities.”

With artificial intelligence on the rise, Millard said she’d also like to see more “soft skills” implemented into the school’s legal curriculum.

“Those fine tuning, wonderful things that we can do with clients, things that computers cannot do, that we need to drill down on,” she said.

An “entrepreneurial spirit”

Millard said many of the students in the young law school have an “entrepreneurial spirit.” She said many of them create their own opportunities whether through networking, clubs or events.

“Because of our specific location, we need to really make things happen. We have to invite guests onto campus, and we love doing that, and we have to work harder at creating all those opportunities for students to connect with remarkable lawyers and they seize on every single opportunity,” she said.

Being a younger program, she said the law school isn’t bogged down in tradition, allowing the school to “move with the times” and imple-

ment new programming.

TRU Law graduate turned TRU law assistant teaching professor Murray Sholty agreed the school has an “entrepreneurial spirit” that is apparent in the faculty as well.

“TRU Law, they’re starting to introduce new courses that have that business and law and innovation type aspects to it, and that’s really exciting because I think that’s quite innovative for a law school within Canada,” Sholty said.

A new business law minor was approved by the TRU’s board of governors in February.

Building the school from the ground up Sholty, who is an alumni of TRU’s first law class, said TRU Law was the first law school to open in Canada in over three decades, and they were the guinea pigs.

In the class’ first year, they established the Society of Law Students, organized the inaugural TRU Law gold tournament, and various clubs, including the South Asian Law Students Association, Black Law Students Association, Indigenous Law Students Association and Animal Rights Club.

He said the school had to be build from the ground up — literally. Sholty said the law building wasn’t finished construction until their final year.

He said many of the school’s graduates have brought the “TRU spirit” with them.

“A good portion have started their own firms, or they’re working as in house legal counsel, or they’re starting their own business, or in some cases, even teaching at different universities,” he said.

TRU’s first law students arrived in 2011 and graduated in 2014. The class’ 10 year reunion was held over the weekend on campus.

Photo/Josh Dawson

SPORTS

New season, new faces: Merritt locals join the Centennials

Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com

Two young hockey talents from Merritt have officially committed to the Merritt Centennials for the upcoming season.

This year, the Cents have found new hometown heroes in Luke Sowpal and Cooper Harrington as they lace up their skates for their hometown team in the 202425 season.

The left-handed forward Cooper Harrington is described by Centennials’ head coach Wes McLeod as a player who is “not afraid to take a run at the biggest player on the opposing team.”

“He is relentless in hunting pucks and creating turnovers and will be a pest for opposing teams to deal with,” the coach said. “Combining his work ethic with his skill set, we feel Cooper has tremendous upside to turn into a force to be wrecking with the KIJHL.”

The born and raised Merrittonian describes it as a dream come true to be playing for the Merritt Centennials.

“It’s unbelievable, I’m still in shock to be honest. I grew up dreaming of playing for them, so getting the chance this year to put on a jersey and play for this community is gonna be unreal,” Harrington said.

He describes himself as an energetic player and someone who is committed to overtop himself.

“Being a 16 year old in this league, I know I might not play a whole bunch, but I guarantee I’ll make the best of every chance I can get,” Harrington added.

During the 2023-24 season, Harrington was committed to the Thompson Blazers U17 AAA. In his time with the Blazers, Harrington played 32 games during the regular season, scored nine goals and had nine assists. He also played seven playoff games with the Blazers, managing to assist four goals.

Luke Sowpal, a 17 year-old right-handed forward, has an equally compelling story.

Centennials’ head coach McLeod describes the right-handed forward as a “shifty forward with a great release and ability to score from anywhere on the ice.”

“Luke is strong on his skates, can protect pucks and make plays under pressure,” the coach added. “We like his upside as a player and his ability to play anywhere in our lineup. As a local player, Luke is sure to be a fan favourite.”

But in his own words, Sowpal describes himself as a passionate player.

“The way that I play is I like to leave it all on the ice and just give it my all and whatever it takes to win, whatever the coach wants me to do, I’ll do,” he added.

Like Harrington, his hockey journey started when he was still very young. Sowpal said that he has always been into hockey and it was a big part of his family.

“I’ve always been into sports and hockey specifically. Just a few years ago, I started playing away from home, playing at a higher level,” he added.

During last season, Sowpal played for the Cold Lake Aeros in the CanadianAmerican Junior Hockey League. In his time with the Aeros, Sowpal showcased impressive numbers, having played 34 games, scored 23 goals and assisted 36 goals. He shares some of his expectations for the upcoming season with the Centennials.

“I’m extremely excited to play in front of the fans in Merritt and my family,” he said. “They can expect a hard game physically and a lot of energy.”

“I’m gonna really try to top my game, so I can move on forward … the goal this year is just to get better and work on those little things that I need to work on.”

As the team still builds its roster for the upcoming season, the excitement is palpable as the Cents’ games will now feature two of Merritt’s own.

Luke Sowpal (top) and Cooper Harrington (bottom) signing their contracts with the Cents

Photo/Brad Anstey, Merritt Centennials owner

Under the spotlight on last dance competition in B.C.

Kate van Rensburg clinches multiple awards at Versastyle Dance Competition

Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com

Talented local 10-year-old keeps on stealing the spotlight in every dance competition she is in.

Kate van Rensburg recently showcased her impressive skills at the Versastyle Dance Competition held from May 13 to 16.

Competing in both the Intermediate Competitive Division for group entries and in the Elite Junior Division for her solos, van Rensburg achieved a remarkable success, earning an array of awards.

In the Elite Junior Division for her solos, van Rensburg’s performances were nothing short of spectacular.

She has managed to clinch five awards in the division – one silver for her tap solo, three gold awards for her contemporary ballet solo, contemporary solo and jazz solo; as well as a sapphire award for her ballet solo. Van Rensburg received a third overall in the Elite Junior Solo Division.

Her contemporary ballet solo, titled “Ava Maria”, received a Judges Choice Award, which praises her performance for its exceptional technique, creativity, originality, execution, performance and entertainment.

Van Rensburg also clinched five awards in the Intermediate Competitive Division for the group entries. Along with her fellow dancers from The Dance Gallery, they’ve won four gold awards – jazz group, lyrical group and tap group – and one silver award for the contemporary group category.

In addition, they’ve also won fourth overall in the

Intermediate Competitive/Elite Large Group division for their lyrical group titled “Leave a Light On” and received fifth overall for their jazz group titled “Drop Da Bomb” in the same division.

The 10-year-old reflects on what all the awards mean to her.

“It means a lot because I know how long and hard I have worked to get these awards,” she said. “I also want to represent my dance studio and make all my teachers proud every time I compete.”

In addition to the awards, van Rensburg also received a part scholarship to attend Sol Dance Collective, a unique and immersive dance experience that aims to let dancers explore different dance styles and develop their techniques.

Versastyle marked the last time van Rensburg competed in British Columbia before relocating to Nova Scotia.

“I was excited for this competition and really enjoyed it but I also feel sad knowing that I won’t be competing with my friends again,” van Rensburg said. “This past year with The Dance Gallery has been amazing. They accepted me and made me a part of their dance family the second I walked through the doors.”

Van Rensburg hopes to continue to make a positive impact in her community.

“I have so much support in Merritt and I would like to thank everyone who has followed my journey, donated funds, and also those who ask about my dancing and competitions,” she said. “I want to inspire younger dancers. Age is just a number, you can do anything.”

Engines roaring at Merritt Speedway over the weekend

Photo/LK Studio

Walk set to bring kidney disease awareness

Heather and Marcus Ouimet are organizing their third Kidney Walk in Merritt

Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com

Lace up your kicks and join in for a good cause early next month.

Merrittonians are invited to participate in the yearly Kidney Walk set to occur on Saturday, June 2, at Rotary Park. Those who wish to register for the walk can either do it online or on the same day, starting at 9 a.m. The 2.5-kilometre walk begins at 10 a.m.

Heather and Marcus Ouimet are going on their third year organizing the Kidney Walk in Merritt, which aims to raise awareness of kidney disease.

“The first time we did it, we raised $7,000 for kidney disease and we started it because our daughter was stage five kidney disease, so she was on dialysis and she was on the transplant list,” Marcus said.

“There’s a lot of people in the community with kidney disease and it’s hard to get support in rural areas, so they (Kidney Foundation of Canada) offer a lot of suites for people who do need organ transplants because they might be in Vancouver for two or three months,” Marcus added.

Marcus added that their motivation to keep involved in the cause comes from seeing the work that the Kidney Foundation of Canada does and how people benefit from it.

“Just seeing the work that they do when people benefit from it and the support that they

give people, because it’s just such a hard thing to go through, especially with the youth,” he said. “Obviously, we’re just kind of hopeful one day that they come up with a cure for kidney disease because there’s no cure right now. It’s just a lifetime disease that you have to deal with.”

Heather said the support from the community throughout the years they’ve organized the walk has been great.

“The first year we had it, it was sort of a last minute thing that we decided we’ll just pull it together,” she said. “We had people come that we didn’t even know. (People) from Kamloops and they’ve donated their kidney or they’ve received the kidney. Even last year, we had people show up that we didn’t know who they were. It was amazing.”

Marcus added that there are different ways that people can contribute to the cause and hopes to see a lot of people joining in.

“They can go on the Kidney Walk website for Canada and they can find Merritt. They can create their own team or they can join our team,” he said. “They get to just make a donation or they can come up for the walk. So they can kind of participate in different ways if they want, even if they don’t want to do the walk.”

Photo/Heather Ouimet

CLASSIFIEDS

In loving memory of

Ther ew illbea for

RICK CROM AR TIE

on Sunday,May 26 from 1-3pm at 18 63 Hamilton Avenue

flowers please,donateto char it yofyourchoic e. Bringyourlaw nchair s.

Sharon Mann

May 5, 1945 -May 8, 2024

The family is saddened to say that Sharon Mann passed away on Wednesday,May 8, 2024 at the Merritt Hospital.Family and friends came in to say their last love you’sand goodbyes.

Lois Joy BLAIR

Sept 22,1943 ~May 5, 2024

Sharon wasvery talented and creative,she enjoyed doing needle point and making jewellry.She wasanavid reader and movie watcher

She wasborn in Saint John to parents George McQueen and Lillian Kennedy McQueen.

Survivedbyher husband Sud Mann and partner of 48 years, her dog Tiki. Her children: Tina (Scott) Epstein, Charlotte (Chris) Magee and Gordon (Krista) Chaisson. Grandchildren: Rebekah Hudson, Auston Parramore, Camden Parramore, Cade &Isabelle Huovinen, Laurren &Emilee Williamson, Kenneth Russell, SidneyParramore and great grandchild Grant, brother Jon MacQueen and sister Pam(Robert) McQueen Doiron and sister-in-lawGail Paradis along with several nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her parents, sister Doreen (Harvey), Ruthanne Worrl, brothers; David and Wayne McQueen, brother-in-lawEarl Harvey and Jack Worrall

Mrs. Lois JoyBlair passed away peacefully in Kamloops at thePonderosaLodge on May 5, 2024 at 80 years of age. She will be sadly missed by herchildren: Billy, Lorraine (John), Glen (Gaye),grandchildren: Gregory,Jessica, Taylor,Kyla, Scott, Stephanie and Matthew, great-grandchildren: Tyler,Brooklyn, Hunter,Kiyzer and Willa, her brotherDon Wood and sister Janice Brown, along withmanynieces andnephews and manyfriends and relatives.

She waspredeceased by her husband Fred in 1998 Lois’s love forcamping, bowling,volunteering for the hospital coffee wagon as well as score keeping for thefastball leagues always kept asmile on herface and ajoy in the community

There will be no formal service, shouldfriends and family desire donationsmay be made to Heart &Stroke Foundation on her behalf.

“Those we love don’tgoaway, They walk beside us everyday”

JOHN ROBERT (JACK)THOMSON

Shewill be missed by all who knewher.Atthe request of the family there will be no funeral butagathering this summer

TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

Born in Cumberland BC on August13, 1948. Jack passedawayMay 13, 2024 in ShawniganLakeaft avaliant strugglewith parkinson’sand dementia.Hewill be lovinglyrememberedbyhis wife of 56 years, Annnée Baird, hischildren Jeffrey(Lisa), Jennifer(Kyle)Brown,and Matthew (Amanda), grandchildren Sean (Megan), Mackenzie, Miranda (Nick),Joey, Zoe, Emma,and greatgrandchildrenLiamand Sofie.Jack also leaves to mournhis brothers Ron (Barbara), Art(Debbie),sisterLynne,sister-in-law Heather(Art) Rendell, and several nieces, nephews andcousins. He will be greatly missedbyhis many friends andall of hismates in theminingindustry.

Many thanks to thewonderfulstaff at AcaciaTyMawrinShawnigan Lake whocared forJack in hisfinaldays.

In lieuofflowers, donations to ParkinsonSociety BC wouldbeappreciated.

In Memoriam In Memoriam In Memoriam

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/CLERK

The Coldwater Indian Band is seeking a dynamic and outgoing individual to fill per manent/ fulltime, the Accounts Payable/Cler k position. This position is responsible for the administration and processing of accounts payable, payroll, standards, and procedures, and assisting in the general accounting affair s of the Coldwater Indian Band.

Job Summar y

Perfor ms all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Coldwater Indian Band policies, standards and procedures, and as directed by the Finance Coordinator Maintains confidentiality in all matter s to the affair s of the Coldwater Indian Band.

• Processes Accounts Payable, to include; reviewing invoices for accuracy and suppor ting documentation to include confir ming with Program Manager s

• Reconciling and reviewing of invoice batches and preliminary cheque runs to ensure accuracy of payments

• Preparing of cheques and obtaining appropriate signatures before distribution

• Filing all related documents and invoices

Assist in maintaining the accounts sub-ledger and reconcile balances to the general ledger Payroll; Ensures confidentiality of all payroll infor mation and records

• Receives and processes timesheets, including review of hour s wor ked, review for appropriate immediate super visor signature, review authorized leaves and holidays, including the matching of authorized leave forms, and payroll cheques

• Enter s all authorized hour s on the payroll program; reconciles and processes employee leave management for ms, confirms accuracy of all payroll deductions for each employee, including rent payments, benefit premiums and pension contributions, etc.

Prepares and processes monthly invoices for office rentals, social housing rent, facility rentals and other receivables, and other wor k as authorized by the Finance Coordinator

• Prepares and reconciles bank deposits, etc.

Position Qualifications

• Prefer a Post-Secondar y Accounting Diploma/Degree

Completion of Canadian Payroll Association Level one

• Minimum 2 to 3 year s job related experience administering payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable

• Experience with related computer software (Xyntax)

• Good communication skills

• Good analytical and problem-solving skills

• Excellent computer skills

• Knowledge and under standing of Coldwater community, language, culture, values and customs

Criminal Record Check

• Bondable

• Valid class 5 Driver’s License and Driver’s Abstract

• Reliable vehicle

Salar y: Relevant experience and qualifications will be evaluated.

Attn: COLDWATER INDIAN BAND Human Resource Committee c/o Band Administrator (lantoine@coldwaterband.org.) PO BOX 4600, MERRITT, BC, V1K 1B8

Deadline for resumes: May 29, 2024. Only successful applicants will be contacted for an inter view

nm en t, are ad ep t at mu lt it as ki ng, an d poss es s th e dr ive to su cc eed, we wa nt to he ar from yo u!

POSITION:

SALES PE RSON/OFFIC E ADMIN

RE SP ONSI BI LITI ES:

• En ga ge in sa le s ac ti vi ti es to prom ot e ad ve rt is in g sp ac e in Me rri tt He ra ld

• Ma na ge ci rc ul at io n proc es se s to en su re ti me ly di st ri bu ti on

• As si st wi th Ac co un ts Re ce ivab le ta sk s

• Ha nd le ge ne ra l of fic e ad mi ni st ra ti ve du ti es

• Co lla bo ra te wi th th e te am to ac hi eve sa le s an d op erat io na l go al s

• Prov id e exce pt io na l cust om er se rv ic e to cl ie nt s an d pa rt ne rs

QUALIF IC AT IO NS:

• Proven ex pe ri en ce in sa le s an d/or of fic e ad mi ni st ra ti on

• St ro ng mu lt it as ki ng ab il it ie s in a fa st -p ac ed envi ro nm en t

• Se lf -m ot ivat ed an d go al -o ri en te d

• Sh ou ld poss es s profi ci en cy in us in g co mp ut er s.

• Exce ll en t co mm un ic at io n an d in te rp er so na l sk il ls

• Ba si c un de rs ta nd in g of Ac co un ts Re ce ivab le proc es se s (t ra in in g wi ll be prov id ed)

• Ab il it y to wo rk in de pe nd en tl y an d as pa rt of a te am

WH AT WE OF FE R:

• Co mp et it ive co mp en sa ti on wi th co mm is si on op po rt un it ie s

• Trai ni ng an d me nt or sh ip prog ra ms

• A ch an ce to be pa rt of a hi st or ic an d co mm un it y- ce nt ri c orga ni za ti on

• Op po rt un it ie s fo r ca re er ad va nc em en t

HOW TO APPLY:

In te re st ed ca nd id at es are invi te d to su bm it th ei r re su me an d a cove r le tt er hi gh li gh ti ng th ei r re leva nt ex pe ri en ce to pu bl is he r@ me rri tt he ra ld.c om. Pl ea se in cl ud e “S al es Pe rs on/O ffi ce Ad mi n Ap pl ic at io n - Me rri tt He ra ld” in th e su bj ec t li ne

At Me rr it t He ra ld, we be li eve in fost er in g a di ve rs e an d in cl us ive wo rk pl ac e. We en co urag e ca nd id

Take notice that I, 186 Energy Inc., from West Vancouver, BC, have applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Forests (FOR), Kamloops, for an Investigative Licence for a solar power study situated on Provincial Crown land located adjacent BC Hydro transmission lines approximately 25 km SE of Kamloops and south of Roche Lake Road

FOR invites comments on this application. The Lands File is 3413842. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Land Officer, Kamloops, FOR, at 441 Columbia Street, Kamloops BC, V2C 2T3. Comments will be received by FOR up to July 26, 2024. FOR may not be able to consider comments received after this date Please visit the Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision Database website at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

Able to make amends

SUDOKU

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

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

of

Erstwhile

Engine additive

Nasal mucus

Fit a horse with footwear

Consumed

Settle

Larry and Curly’s pal

Basketball’s GOAT

Line from the center of a polygon

Type of watercra

Greek island

__ DeGaulle,

Exclamation of surprise

Aspects of one’s character 48. Boxing GOAT’s former surname

Holy places

Body art (slang)

Attributes

Abandon a mission 44. Trims by cutting