Greatfamilyhomeoncornerlotwithlaneaccess.3 bedrmsup,2fullbath,largekitchen&dining room. Large rec. roominbasementwithgasF/P. Central A/C,newer roof,1carattachedgarge+detached heatedshop.
Elected officials from across the Southern Interior have voted to support a push from the City of Merritt to have the province reduce the number of years a property owner can be in arrears on their property tax.
The Merritt-sponsored resolution was adopted by delegates representing dozens of municipalities at the Southern Local Government Association (SILGA). It urges the provincial government to reform outdated legislation that, according to proponents, is hampering municipal fiscal health.
The current provisions under the Community Charter allows property owners to fall into arrears up to three years before municipalities are permitted to initiate a tax sale.
“This delay represents a serious challenge to our ability to plan, bulkhead and deliver essential services our communities rely on,” Merritt Coun. Manuel Olguin said at the presentation. Merritt’s resolution calls on the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) to advocate for a reduction in that timeframe, citing the financial pressure long-term arrears place on local governments.
Additionally, the resolution addresses a separate but compounding issue—mobile
Inmemoryof LARRY GAMACHE
We mournthelossandcelebratethelifeof LarryGamache, along-timememberofthe MerrittHomeHardwareteamandfamily. Hehasbeenpartoftheteamsince1982, andhisleadershipandknowledge wereinstrumentaltooursuccess. Hehelpedshapecompanycultureandwasalways happytosupportcustomersandcoworkers.
or manufactured homes, which are often exempt from tax sale mechanisms under the Local Government Act.
“Mobile homes (that are) under the Local Government Act municipalities face delays in recovering taxes from mobile home owners,” Olguin said.
“These homes are often not fixed to land, complicating both collection and enforcement. This legal and administrative activity only adds to the frustration and financial strength experienced by local governments.”
The resolution also asks the province to create a province-wide, cost-effective mechanism for municipalities to recover outstanding taxes on mobile homes—an issue that has remained unresolved for decades. The complexity arises from the unique legal status of mobile homes, which often fall through the cracks of traditional tax enforcement frameworks.
“This isn’t about penalizing property owners. It’s about ensuring firm accountability in the financial sustainability of our local governments, the state municipalities and goods that they need to serve our precedents effectively,” Olguin added.
The SILGA resolution was carried, and the matter will go forward for further debate and discussion at the UBCM convention in the fall.
IncollaborationwithlocalFirstNations, wewillbe creatinginformative signageatthesite.Thesesigns willidentifythearea,outlinetrailroutes, andhighlight ke ycultural valuesandinterestsofourFirstNations partners.
ORCBCsupportsoutdoor recreation groupsthrough grantsaimed at enhancinginfrastructure fora variety ofbackcountr yuser s. Thisprojectisdesignedto benefit abroadrangeofoutdoorenthusiasts.
As amemberofATVBC, theNicolaValleyATVClubhosts regular clubridesonthe thirdSundayofeachmonth.
PHOTO/TY LIM Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz presenting at SILGA on Wednesday, April 30.
LETTERS to the Editor
LIBERALS MUST FIND SOLUTION TO CANADA’S AFFORDABILITY CRISIS
Editor,
Hopefully, a Mark Carney Liberal minority government will resist neo-liberally supporting the core (‘woke’) social issues — those of race, sexuality, gender, and unrestricted abortion access — while allowing many people to strain to pay for some of life’s basic necessities. That is essentially what the federal Liberal Party’s U.S. counterpart, the Democratic Party, has morphed into. Americans already have fiscally callous policies with the Republican Party; and Canadians already have that with the Conservative Party, especially with leader Pierre Poilievre.
There’s a very large and growing populace who are too overworked, worried and even angry about food and housing unaffordability thus insecurity for themselves or their family — largely due to insufficient income.
Worsening matters, big businesses (via their lobbyists) can get, or are getting, unaccountably even bigger, defying both the very spirit and letter of government rules established to ensure a competitive marketplace thus consumer affordability by limiting concentrated ownership. It really does seem there’s little or no moral/human accountability when huge profit is involved. ‘We are a capitalist nation, after all,’ the morally lame business-as-usual justification typically goes.
– Frank Sterle Jr.
White Rock, B.C.
MAY
8, 1925
GETTING AFTER THE GRASSHOPPERS
A determined effort is being made this year to combat the grasshopper pest in this distiict, and it will not be the fault of the ranchers or government if there is not a considerable lessening of the plague this summer.
There is active co-operation between the parties, and things look hopeful for a large decrease in the grasshopper population over large areas. Many tons of bran and poison have been supplied, and the ranchers will provide the other necessary Ingredientof the mixture— sawdust.
MAY
21,
1926 CATTLE STEALING CASE BEFORE COURT
A case of considerable interest to stockmen throughout the district was up before Stependiary Magistrate Boothroyd on Wednesday, when Mrs. Kate E. Harvey, who owns a ranch at Osprey Lake appeared before the magistrate on a charge of stealing cattle. The case lasted throughout the day and well into the evening when the magistrate dismissed the charge of stealing. The two steers in question were apparently the property of Mrs. Crompton and N. Gottfriedsen of Quichena and had stayed near Siwash Meadows and finally to Mrs. Harvey’s ranch at Paradise Range near Pennask Lake. Mrs. Harveys’ story was that she had brought the streers from one, Ernest Swansen in October and killed them just after Christmas, the brands not being visibile. She then sold the beef to Mattheson Bros. of Coalmont for which she recieved $76.86. The animals were killed at Mrs. Harveys’ ranch...
Proposed Zoning Amendment
Notice is hereby given that the City of Merritt Council will consider Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2399, 2025 for the property at 1500 Willow Crescent (subject property shown on map) in the Regular Council Meeting scheduled May 13, 2025 at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers, City Hall, at 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, British Columbia.
PROPOSED CHANGES: Proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2399, 2025 would amend the Zoning for the southern portion of the subject property from “R5 – Mobile Home Park” to “R7 – Medium Density Residential.”
The proposed Zoning will allow development of the subject property for Medium Density Residential, including townhomes and apartments.
As per the Official Community Plan, the property is designated for Low to Medium Density Residential. The proposed Rezoning is aligned with this designation and the general vision of the corresponding OCP sector of Middlesboro – to include a mix of low and medium density residential, parks, and industrial uses. Since this Rezoning Application is consistent with the City of Merritt Official Community Plan, a PUBLIC HEARING WILL NOT BE HELD.
PROVINCIAL PROHIBITION ON PUBLIC HEARING: Pursuant to the Local Government Act section 464(3) the City is prohibited from holding a public hearing regarding the proposed bylaw. Consistent with provincial legislation, members of the public are not permitted to address Council regarding the proposed bylaw during the Council meeting.
MORE INFORMATION: A copy of the proposed Bylaw amendments may be viewed Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, until Tuesday, May 13, 2025, or online at any time at WWW.MERRITT.CA.
Residents will see an increase in their utility bills this spring, as per the updated Fees and Charges Bylaw 2386 (2024). This law was changed in part to provide a means to save for the a Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is at the end of its lifespan. The bylaw was also updated to ensure a fairer distribution of costs, so that lower water and sewer users are not subsidizing higher usage.
It should be noted that utility fees are set strictly for cost recovery on operational and capital expenses. They are not a source of profit for the City. Prior to 2024, utility rates had remained unchanged for 10 years.
TRUMP: U.S. DOES NOT NEED CANADIAN CARS, ENERGY AND LUMBER
CARNEY: continued from page 9
“transformational” president focused on the economy and tackling illegal opioids, and then said he hoped to adopt a “similar focus” on the economy, border security and place a “much greater focus on defence and security.”
Carney also said Canada will be “playing our full weight in NATO.”
Trump said Canada chose a “very talented person” in its recent election and described the Liberal win as one of the greatest political comebacks of all time, since the party was on track to lose badly back in January. Trump even agreed that Canada is “stepping it up” on its military spending and noted “that’s a very important thing.”
Just ahead of Carney’s arrival at the White House, Trump had repeated his criticisms of Canada on social media and insisted the U.S. does not need Canadian cars, energy and lumber.
Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform that his “only question of consequence” for Carney would be about why America is propping up the Canadian economy and providing “free” military protection.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick went on Fox News the day before and accused Canada of being “socialist” freeloaders riding on America’s coattails. Before arriving in Washington, Carney framed the meeting as the beginning of talks on a larger economic and security agreement between Canada and the United States. He is set to hold a news conference in Washington Tuesday afternoon.
The Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement on
trade, referred to as CUSMA in Canada, was negotiated during the first Trump administration.
Trump went ahead with economywide tariffs against Canada in March, only to partially walk back the duties a few days later on imports compliant with CUSMA rules. Canada was also hit by steel, aluminum and automobile tariffs.
Trump’s team and his recent actions, however, suggest he recognizes the importance of trade with Canada to the U.S. The president left Canada and Mexico out of his global tariff agenda and provided further CUSMA carveouts for the North American automobile industry.
Since his return to the White House, Trump has repeated a long list of complaints about Canada while hitting it with tariffs and claiming it would be better off as a U.S. state. But he has struck a different tone with Carney, even referring to him as a “very nice man.”
The mercurial president made passing references to Trudeau when talking about CUSMA and trade on Tuesday.
“I won’t say this about Mark, but I didn’t like his predecessor,” Trump said, referring to Carney by his first name.
Trump also took an apparent swipe at Trudeau’s former trade minister Chrystia Freeland, who spearheaded the renegotiation of NAFTA with the first Trump White House, by calling her “terrible.”
“We had a bad relationship having to do with the fact that we disagreed with the way they viewed the deal,” Trump said.
CANADA POST EYES ANOTHER STRIKE
CHRISTOPHER REYNOLDS
The Canadian Press
Canada Post employees could be headed to the picket line in just over two weeks, with existing deals between the Crown corporation and the union expiring on May 22. A strike or lockout would mark the second time in under six months that the postal service ground to a halt, after 55,000 employees walked off the job for 32 days in November and December.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University business instructor Ulrich Paschen says the union has lost some leverage now that the peak holiday
season has passed.
Experts also note that Canada Post’s dire financial situation means it may struggle to meet workers halfway on their contract demands. The two sides agreed to resume negotiations last week, supported by a mediator, after bargaining broke off in March.
Last year’s strike left millions of parcels and letters in limbo ahead of the winter holidays, leaving businesses and consumers scrambling to ship products until a ministerial directive prompted employees to go back on the job in mid-December.
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Photos of the MMIWG2+ march held by the Lower Nicola Indian Band and organized by Carole Basil.
REMEMBERING IMMIGRANTS OF THE PAST
CHINESE: continued from page 13
insurance money alone wasn’t enough to rebuild the original building and replace the artifacts. In the fall of 2021, Frandrich spent a lot of time in the rain sifting through the ashes of the old museum. She was able to salvage several pieces of pottery, which is now morphed from being exposed to such high temperatures.
Soon, the story of the Lytton Chinese Heritage museum was being shared in Chinese spaces around B.C., eventually reaching the Lower Mainland.
Frandrich said the groups raised over $150,000 for her. Fandrich ended up sourcing hundreds more pieces of artifacts from other collectors. She even replaced the Guan Yin statue, getting it donated from a group of Buddhist monks who have a settlement in the valley.
Many of her donors were present at the opening of the rebuilt museum. One such man being Edwin Wang, who learned of the museum’s rebuilding through a GoFundMe program.
“Not long after the town was burnt down, my wife and I visited Lorna here,” he said. “(It was) attractive for us to (help) rebuild the museum.”
He said he supported the museum because it not only allowed for Canadians to learn about the history of Chinese-Canadians, but it also allowed newer Chinese immigrants to learn about the journey of previous generations of immigrants.
“It is interesting for history. How they come here, and they survive and thrive here,” he said.
He said he likes seeing a small community being able to record its history, and that he enjoyed being a small part of the rebuild.
“It’s kind of the spirit of the Canadian people that we can do whatever we can to help her.”
On May 3., the museum was officially opened to the public. MLA Tony Luck, Mayor Denise O’Conner and B.C.’s minister of tourism Chandra Herbert were present.
PHOTO/TY LIM Buddhist monk offering inscene to a statue of Guan Yin.
Mother’s Day is celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May. Since 1914, when it was officially recognized as a national holiday by President Woodrow Wilson, families have been gathering to celebrate mothers, and celebrations typically include thoughtful gifts.
The role of mother can be a challenging job. Even though people strive to give moms the accolades they deserve, oftentimes mothers don’t get enough
Mother’s Day Sunday, May 11
credit or attention. That all changes on Mother’s Day, when Mom is in the spotlight. Although there is no way to completely pay mothers back for their selfless actions and unwavering love, these gifts can help them feel that much more special.
Special meal
According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, around 48 percent of people make plans to visit restaurants on Mother’s
Day. Since Mother’s Day is so busy for restaurants, it is wise to book reservations early to ensure you get on the list, particularly if there is a specific restaurant Mom wants to visit.
Flowers
Anna Jarvis is credited with starting the push for a national day of recognition for mothers. Jarvis incorporated carnations into the holiday. If you plan to gift Mom a bouquet of flowers, add some carnations to the mix as a subtle nod to the founder of Mother’s Day.
Time
Various pronouncements state that 90 percent of the time parents spend with their children happens during their first 18 years of those youngsters’ lives. As children get older, they naturally spend much less time with Mom and Dad, as they are spreading their wings and finding their place in the world. Offering your time as an older child can be the best gift of all on Mother’s Day. Do something Mom loves, and do it together. That can be
PERFECT GIFTS FOR MOTHER’S DAY
engaging in a hobby she enjoys, attending a theater show or concert, taking a walk through the park, or even planning to cook her a meal on a night apart from Mother’s Day. Gift of pampering
Mothers have a lot going on in their lives, and most of it involves helping others. Your Mom’s needs and whims likely take a back seat to the demands she places on herself, and that can change on Mother’s Day. Treat Mom to gifts that prioritize rest and relaxation. Put together a gift package that includes a massage, hair styling and a manicure at a local salon. Maybe Mom has been interested in trying acupuncture or an aromatherapy treatment to ease stress? There also are soaking and floating salt bath businesses where she can float in silence as the pressures of life drain away.
Mother’s Day offers an opportunity to turn all attention towards Mom and treat her to various amenities and gifts.
MIN NG MONTH
MINING PANEL DISCUSSES ECONOMIC BENEFITS IN MIDST OF EXPANSION TALK
MINING PANEL DISCUSSES ECONOMIC BENEFITS IN MIDST OF EXPANSION TALK
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
Representatives for mining groups in B.C.’s Southern Interior met last Friday to discuss expansions of mining and the economic impact it can have on communities.
Representatives for mining groups in B.C.’s Southern Interior met last Friday to discuss expansions of mining and the economic impact it can have on communities.
A panel of six people involved in B.C.’s mining industry - from viewpoints of exploration, First Nations band members, workers, international industry, municipal government and the Mining Association of BC - spoke to an audience of local municipal officials in Merritt during a Souther Interior Local Goverment Association (SILGA) conference.
A panel of six people involved in B.C.’s mining industry - from viewpoints of exploration, First Nations band members, workers, international industry, municipal government and the Mining Association of BC - spoke to an audience of local municipal officials in Merritt during a Souther Interior Local Goverment Association (SILGA) conference.
Topics under discussion included reducing the carbon footprint in our mining industry, the economic value mining brings to the province, First Nations consultation, the future need for mass copper, capitalized by a final statement asking local leaders to advocate for the opening or expansion of mines in UBCM.
Topics under discussion included reducing the carbon footprint in our mining industry, the economic value mining brings to the province, First Nations consultation, the future need for mass copper, capitalized by a final statement asking local leaders to advocate for the opening or expansion of mines in UBCM.
“In these times of fiscal restraint shown by the government … we need the revenue (gained by mining),” said Tim McEwan, vice-president of the Mining Association of BC.
“In these times of fiscal restraint shown by the government … we need the revenue (gained by mining),” said Tim McEwan, vice-president of the Mining Association of BC.
The expansion of Merritt’s local mine, Highland Valley Copper Mine, is one currently under consideration by the Provincial government.
The expansion of Merritt’s local mine, Highland Valley Copper Mine, is one currently under consideration by the Provincial government.
The expansion - if approved - would help fulfill growing, international demand for copper.
The expansion - if approved - would help fulfill growing, international demand for copper.
The demand for copper is said to be so high, Export Development Canada, a crown corporation, has stated that the world will likely be in a deficit of 10 million tonnes of copper within the next 10 years. To keep up, Export Development Canada stated
The demand for copper is said to be so high, Export Development Canada, a crown corporation, has stated that the world will likely be in a deficit of 10 million tonnes of copper within the next 10 years. To keep up, Export Development Canada stated
investment up to $250 billion in mining infrastructure would be needed.
investment up to $250 billion in mining infrastructure would be needed.
“The world is going to need 250 more Highland Valley Copper mines,” said Anna Brace, Superintendent of community relations at Teck Highland Valley Copper.
“The work is going to need 250 more Highland Valley Copper mines,” said Anna Brace, Superintendent of community relations at Teck Highland Valley Copper.
The expansion of Highland Valley Copper mine has been under discussion for five years with the first environmental assessment taking place five years ago. The expansion would extend the operation of the mine into the 2040’s, and would produce an extra 178,000 tonnes of ore everyday.
The expansion of Highland Valley Copper mine has been under discussion for five years with the first environmental assessment taking place five years ago. The expansion would extend the operation of the mine into the 2040’s, and would produce an extra 178,000 tonnes of ore everyday.
The expansion is expected to bring economic benefits to the province and neighbouring communities.
The expansion is expected to bring economic benefits to the province and neighbouring communities.
According to a study published May 1 by the Mining Association of BC, critical minerals like copper have created over 100,000 jobs in the province and generated $71 million in municipal taxes.
According to a study published May 1 by the Mining Association of BC, critical minerals like copper have created over 100,000 jobs in the province and generated $71 million in municipal taxes.
“The economic impacts are extensive,” said McEwan.
“The economic impacts are extensive,” said McEwan.
Korah de Walt-Gagnon, project manager of Taseko Mines - and also a member of Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc First Nation. said these jobs are going directly to people living in communities nearby the mines. She said 97 per cent of employees working in Gibraltar Mines live in or near the neighbouring communities.
Korah de Walt-Gagnon, project manager of Taseko Mines - and also a member of Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc First Nation. said these jobs are going directly to people living in communities nearby the mines. She said 97 per cent of employees working in Gibraltar Mines live in or near the neighbouring communities.
While mines across B.C. have economic impact, they have also come into discussion for impacts to the environment as well as their encroachment on First Nations territory.
While mines across B.C. have economic impact, they have also come into discussion for impacts to the environment as well as their encroachment on First Nations territory.
Last year, Stk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc Nation (SSN), a governance group of Skeetchestn and Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc bands, announced they were opposing the expansion of Highland Valley Copper Mine.
Last year, Stk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc Nation (SSN), a governance group of Skeetchestn and Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc bands, announced they were opposing the expansion of Highland Valley Copper Mine.
ENVIRONMENTAL
ENVIRONMENTAL:
PHOTO/HIGHLAND VALLEY COPPER Highland Valley Copper Mine said they have created approximately 4,280 jobs in the community.
: continued on page 19
PHOTO/HIGHLAND VALLEY COPPER Highland Valley Copper Mine said they have created approximately 4,280 jobs in the community.
continued on page 19
STUDENTS HAVE FUN TESTING HEAVY MACHINERY
LAÍSA CONDÉ editor@merrittherald.com
The second annual Nicola Similkameen School District 58 Heavy Metal Rocks program gave students from Merritt and Princeton a chance to climb into the cab of massive machinery this April.
Put on by School District 58 in partnership with local construction and logging companies, the program brings heavy equipment to an outdoor training site where high school students can receive hands-on introductions to a wide range of machines, from excavators and graders to log loaders and rock trucks.
Merritt Secondary School vice principal Dave Andersen, who coordinates the program, said this year’s addition of logging equipment was a major development.
“We were able to secure three different pieces of logging equipment, along with some logs to actually have students work with, which was something that we didn’t have as a part of the program last year,” he said. “It was primarily construction focused.”
Ten stations were set up for this year’s edition of the program. Although one student didn’t attend, nine students took part in the two-day training session. Among them was a returning participant from Princeton Secondary School, Madison Paige.
“She had a really great experience the first time, and was really keen to come back and do some more. I know she’s really interested in potentially an equipment operator as a career,” Andersen said.
The program was initially open to Grade 11 and 12 students, but this year’s expansion allowed a limited number of Grade 10 students to join.
Andersen said that change was driven by the high level of interest and points to strong demand for the program in the years ahead.
“Our objectives really are exposure to the heavy equipment industry,” he said. “A chance for students that may not have any experience or knowledge of what operating heavy equipment looks like to get a chance to do that, to see if it’s maybe a career path that they would be interested in.”
The program relies entirely on contributions from industry partners. Andersen said these businesses provide all of the machinery, transportation, fuel, and operators—at no cost. “We have some really generous partners in industry,” he said. “Hopefully we can continue to build on those relationships and increase the number of students that participate.”
One of those partners is Encom Services Inc. Simon Rizzardo, who works as an operator for the company, was among the volunteers who brought equipment and helped students get familiar with it.
“There were some pretty big log loaders, a log processor, you know, full-size grader,” he said. “There were 10 pieces of equipment there, and all put on by local businesses, construction
companies that contributed all their units at no cost.”
Rizzardo said students were especially excited to try the big excavator.
“The big excavator was one of their faves,” he said. “I think the kids really liked the versatility of what kind of equipment was there.”
With the experience of last year behind them, Rizzardo said the second edition ran more smoothly.
“We knew exactly where we had to go to get the equipment there. Wasn’t as stressful. My operators that are going there to help out already know how they need to be able to talk to the kids.”
In many cases, an operator sits right beside a student during the first few runs. “The rock truck that we had there, there’s a jump seat that the operator can be right next to a student and give them pointers.”
Rizzardo’s own son took part this year as one of the Grade 10s.
“Once I heard that we’re bringing enough equipment that we can open this up to some Grade 10 students, and one of those kids is my own, that makes it extra special.”
He said the program opens doors not just for students but also for businesses looking to hire. “There is that ability that once they graduate, you can go grab them and throw them into your company. You already kind of know some of those kids, right?” Encom hired one of last year’s participants for part of the summer season.
Both Andersen and Rizzardo are optimistic about future growth.
“If they had more units, I think they’re going to have more students interested,” Rizzardo said. Andersen agreed, noting that “providing as much opportunity for our students as possible” remains the goal.
And for students on the fence about joining, Andersen encourages them to give it a try.
“The worst thing that can happen is you find out that it’s something that you’re not interested in. There’s really no harm in taking that risk.”
PHOTOS/SIMON RIZZARDO SD58 students trying excavating equipment.
MERRITT MINERS IMPRESS AT MINERAL EXHIBITION
Nicola Valley Museum and Archives
Over a century ago, Aug. 31, 1917, Merritt and the Nicola Valley made a strong impression at the Vancouver Exposition with a highly successful showing in the mineral exhibit.
No fewer than six prize-winning entries came from this region, showcasing the mineral wealth and
resourcefulness of local mining operators.
Remarkably, these accomplishments were not the result of any coordinated public initiative. Instead, they came about solely through the determination and commitment of individual prospectors and mining professionals who chose to represent the district on their own accord.
Among the standout entries was a collection from
the Aberdeen Mining Syndicate, based on Ten-Mile Creek.
Assembled and submitted by property manager T.J. Corwin, this exhibit earned three gold medals: one for “Ores from Any Mine,” another for “Best Exhibit of Copper Ores,” and a third for “Best Exhibit of Ores.” The Drum Lummon Mine on Douglas Channel placed second in two of those categories, taking home silver medals.
Local prospector Robert Henderson of Merritt also won a silver medal for his copper ore exhibit, while William McNeill of Merritt received a silver medal in the “Best Exhibit by Individual Prospectors” class.
McNeill’s contribution featured asbestos samples from claims in the Douglas Lake area. The gold in that category went to Phil White of Lillooet.
Merritt Collieries Limited took first prize for its coal exhibit, which included not just raw coal but also products like coke and oil derivatives.
While the display was modest in size, it stood out for its quality and substance, securing the top spot in its class.
At the time, mining was a critical component of Merritt’s emerging economy. While coal was the dominant force—with Merritt Collieries among the region’s largest employers—metallic minerals like copper, gold, and asbestos were beginning to draw serious attention from investors and prospectors.
The local economy was transitioning from a reliance on ranching and agriculture to one increasingly shaped by resource extraction.
Mining provided jobs, drew capital into the Nicola Valley, and linked the community more closely to provincial and
: continued on page 23
NicolaMiningInc.tookonits name to honourthe Merritt /LowerNicola Region,the locationofouroperationsandthe homeofouremployees.As acompany,w believe andhave investedin leaving apositive legacy in every communitywithwhich wewo We arecommittedtothe responsible developmentandoperationsofour mining activitiesintheLowerNicolaregion. areproud to saythatour reclamation focushasdecreased fugitivedustandarecommittedto continuing to workcloselywith ourpartnersand communities.
CAMERON BRIDGE
PHOTO/NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVE
A display of minerals gathered in the Nicola Valley.
PRIDE
PRIDE IN SUCCESS AT EXPOSITION
national economic trends.
The success at the exposition served not just as a point of pride, but as a sign that Merritt was on the radar as a serious mining district.
It’s worth noting that the previous year, McNeill had also represented the district with an ore display, earning gold certificates with limited financial backing from the city council.
However, in 1917, no public funding was made available, leaving the full responsibility on the shoulders of the participating individuals.
This situation highlights an ongoing issue: while the entire region benefits from the visibility and success such exhibitions bring, there was—and still is—a lack of public support for promoting the local mining sector.
The achievements of 1917 demonstrated that with even minimal collective effort, the Nicola Valley could have rivaled the strongest mining districts in the province.
Exposition visitors agreed that year’s mineral display was one of the best in British Columbia’s history, with contributions from nearly every mining region.
Merritt’s consistent success proved again that the area has the kinds of mineral resources that can attract serious investment.
But to turn potential into opportunity, the community needs a coordinated voice. The Herald of the time urged the creation of a public body—a chamber of mines, board of trade, or similar organization—to champion local economic development, especially in mining.
PREHISTORIC WOOD FOUND IN LOCAL MINE
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
Teck Resources Industries announced they had found an artifact from the prehistoric era in their mine near Merritt.
Answering a question posed by the Herald, Teck Highland Valley Copper announced they found a log of petrified wood during operation in 2022.
“It has been sent to the Royal BC Museum in Victoria for storage,
providing future research opportunities into past climates in the Southern Interior,” Teck stated in a email to the Herald.
The log is believed to originate from the Eocene period, which lasted from 34 to 56 million years ago. The era is famous for having the early forms of “modern” animals such as Elephants, bats and whales according to the Florida Museum of Natural History.
Proudtosupport the MiningIndustry.
Theminingindustr yprovidesraw materials, minerals andmetalscriticaltooureconomy. They providethefoundationsformodernliving, innovation andengineering
toHVCandCopperMountainMineforcontracting,wearea proudsupplierforyourcompanies. We’veworkedhardforthepast 32yearswithHVCandare veryproudtosaythatwe’vebeen workingwithCopperMountainMineforthepast6 years.
MINERAL: continued from page 22
A log of wood petrified wood believed to be from the Eocene period found at Highland Copper Valley Mine.
HIGHL AND VALLE Y COPPER
We are commit ted to responsible mining, producing both copper and molybdenum concentrates Copper is a critical mineral for the low-carbon transition to renewable energy and electrification
HVC suppor ts 1,500 direct jobs, primarily residing in Kamloops, Merrit t, Lower Nicola ,Logan Lake, Cache Creek and Ashcroft
We value building strong relationships with local communities through proactive engagement.
To help ensure that local communities’ voices are heard, we’ve set up the following ways for you to connect with us.
We want to hear from you.
Phone: 1.855.523. 3429
Email: hvc.feedback@teck .com
Mail: POBox 1500,Logan Lake, BC V0K 1W0
NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS
MERRITT TRACK-AND-FIELD STAR REACHES PODIUM IN SASKATCHEWAN
LAÍSA CONDÉ editor@merrittherald.com
Local athlete Bernard “Buzz” Manuel recently returned from the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Track and Field Championships with a collection of medals and a renewed sense of purpose.
The longtime competitor took part in four events at the annual competition, which drew just under 200 athletes from across the province and beyond. Manuel was particularly impressed with the organization of the event, which has been running for nearly two decades and is hosted by Running Wild Athletics.
The Saskatchewan-based club has been instrumental in growing Indigenous participation in track and field over the past several years, and Manuel said the energy and positivity at the championships were infectious.
“We want to do that here in B.C. and have our own B.C. Aboriginal track and field championships one day,” said Manuel, who found the atmosphere inspiring and uplifting. “It was a good place to be.”
Among the events he competed in was a 500-metre race, an unusual distance in track and field. Originally hoping to run a 400-metre event, Manuel entered the 500-metre race for Masters athletes when that option
wasn’t available in his age group.
Despite being unfamiliar with the pacing strategy for that distance, he finished second in his heat and fifth overall.
Reflecting on his results, Manuel said it’s gratifying to see his years of training and commitment pay off.
“Some days I feel like I’m not doing much, but then I realize I’ve been doing a lot of work over the past few years, and the results are showing,” he said. “It feels good to know that I’m doing something that’s not just motivating and encouraging to myself, but other people are reaching out and noticing.”
Beyond his achievements on the track, Manuel has recently been selected as one of two Indigenous coach apprentices for the upcoming Canada Summer Games.
He will be working in the sport of lacrosse, gaining experience alongside elite coaches and athletes. The opportunity is one he doesn’t take lightly.
“I was a little overwhelmed,” he admitted, recalling his first meeting with the coaching staff. “But I don’t need to worry about that. I just need to be present, not take things too fast, and take the opportunity to learn as much as I can so I can bring something back to work with the youth in our
community.”
Coaching is nothing new for Manuel, who has worked with youth in the Nicola Valley for years and says he approaches the role with an open heart and mind.
His own upbringing, with strong support from family and local coaches, continues to shape the way he works with young athletes.
For Manuel, there’s also a personal goal driving him: to win a medal in each province across Canada.
With achievements stretching from B.C. to Quebec, he said the Canada Games – set to take place in Newfoundland – will help him feel like he’s completed that journey.
“It gives me that opportunity to complete that goal… and just gives me that full sense of accomplishment,” he
said.
In addition to coaching at a national level, he continues to support his sons in their athletic pursuits. His middle child is currently playing softball in town, and Manuel is one of the team’s coaches.
When asked what advice he would give to young Indigenous athletes, his message was simple.
“Listen to your heart. Play the game to have fun, to make friends, try something new, and don’t be afraid to fail.”
And to those thinking of coaching someday, he encourages them to keep an open mind.
“Sometimes that drive will pop up out of nowhere,” he said. “Just follow your heart, follow your ambition, and have fun with it.”
PICKLEBALL PRESIDENT VISITS MERRITT
The Merritt Pickleball Club (MPC) was recently visited by the President of Pickleball Canada Organization, Val Vollmin. Val and her husband Gene joined local MPC Members in playing a few games at the MPC outdoor courts. Pickleball Canada Organization represents over 84,000 pickleball players across the nation. Merritt Pickleball Club, which has between 80 and 100 members each year, is affiliated with both Pickleball Canada Organization and Pickleball British Columbia.
Members of the Merritt Pickleball Club
enjoy year round pickleball. When the weather is unsuitable for outdoor play, games are usually scheduled at the Coquhalla Middle School gym. Generally play is on our outdoor courts from May to October and indoor from November to April. Club play is scheduled for weekday mornings. New players are always welcome. The club provides free lessons and instructions. The courts are open to the public on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Public access will be managed by the City of Merritt.
For more information call Paul Willms at (250) 315-5042
PHOTO/HERALD FILE
Pickleball players at a tournament in Osoyoos, Sept. 26, 2018.
PAUL WILLMS Contributor
PHOTO/ BUZZ MANUEL
Merritt track-and-field athlete Bernard “Buzz” Manuel taking third place at a Saskatoon meet.
MSS ALUMNUS AWARDED GOV. GENERAL AWARD CADETS CLEANUP CENOTAPH
KENNETH WONG
Contributor
Merritt Secondary School alumni
Owen Bateson was awarded the Governor General’s Academic Medal.
Bateson graduated from MSS in 2024 as Valedictorian and a student representative on the SD58 board of trustees.
Despite graduating last year, Bateson is only receiving the award now as Governor General Academic Medals (GGAM) are given a year after graduation, allowing students to complete summer courses before their final grades are calculated.
The GGAM was first created by Lord Dufferin, Canada’s third Governor General after Confederation, in 1873, honouring the academic achievements of high school graduates, as well as graduates of approved college or university programs.
The medals are casted out of bronze, silver, or gold depending on the education level of the recipient, with bronze at the secondary and collegiate level; silver for the undergraduate level; and gold at the graduate level.
Despite being a recipient of one of Canada’s most prestigious scholastic achievements, Bateson remains level-headed. “It doesn’t feel too special, I felt like a normal student throughout high school,” he said. “I didn’t feel awfully out of the ordinary.”
When asked what keeps him driven, Bateson answered: “I don’t know, I just have an undying desire to be successful, I guess.”
Now almost a full year out of secondary school, Batesen is attending a bachelor in engineering at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus. “I really like race cars,” explains Batesen. “My end goal is to design and build race cars.”
Batesen encourages students still at MSS to “work hard, but not too hard; have fun and get your stuff done.”
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
PHOTOS/KENNETH WONG Merritt army cadets cleanup Cenotaph in front of Civic Centre.
Land Act: NoticeofApplication fora DispositionofCrown Land
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Take noticethatI, MountMabel WindInc. from Toronto,ON,have applied to theBritish ColumbiaMinistryof Water, Landand Resource Stewardship(WLRS),ThompsonOkanagan Region foran InvestigativeLicence – Windpower situated on ProvincialCrownlandlocated 12 kilometers southeastofLogan Lake,nearHighway 5. WLRSinvitescommentsonthisapplication.The Lands Fileis 3413861. Wr ittencommentsconcerning thisapplicationshouldbedirected to theSeniorLand Officer,ThompsonOkanagan Region,WLRSat441 ColumbiaStreet, Kamloops,BCV2C2T3. Comments willbe received by WLRSup toJune 13,2025.WLRS maynotbeable to considercomments receivedafter thisdate. PleasevisittheApplications,Comments and asons forDecision Database websiteathttp:// comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ formoreinformation.
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