Merritt Herald November 20 2025 by Merritt Herald

Read about local criminal cases and police standoffs that happened this week.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER

LNIB OFFICE SHUT DOWN BY PROTEST

The termination of one LNIB employee sparked a three-day protest against band staff.

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

A temporary shut down rocked the Lower Nicola Indian Band government as protestors moved to close the band office last week.

Band members disgruntled with staff practices blocked off and shut down LNIB offices starting last Monday, Nov. 10, with the office blockade ending Thursday.

The protest stems from a climax of an issue that protestors are saying is a long history of bullying and a toxic work environment within the band.

The protest started on Monday, Nov. 10, as the band had decided to terminate the employment of LNIB’s Director of Human Services Bridget Labelle who has been in the role for 26 years according to her LinkedIn page.

BAND: continued on page 3

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS WEEK PREVIEW

Merritt’s Country Christmas week is soon returning, read a preview of the week’s events and the hard work it took to organize it.

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

BAND CONTINUES WITH DECISION

PROTEST: continued from page 1

The protestors - while not aware of the reason for Labelle’s termination - described the termination as unjust, seeing Labelle as fit to continue her job.

“She’s had a lot of time here, put in a lot of time and effort and helped out so much with our community,” said spokesperson for the protest Garrett Mike.

Mike said Labelle was responsible for organizing much of the social assistance from the band to band members, helping those struggling financially.

Sheree Moses, an Elder living in Rocky Pines reserve and a protestor, had dealt extensively with Labelle.

While Moses claimed Labelle had health issues, she said Labelle was still functional at her job, seeing her participate frequently in events and community assistance. Her hope is for Labelle to keep her job.

“Bridget needs to stay in her job,” she said. “I think they (band human resources staff) need to reconsider their actions, their decisions and realize that our people, we stick together.”

Protestors fear that the removal of Labelle will lead to worse

service, especially for those needing social assistance.

“This service is provided by our Community Services office and personnel and must remain intact,” reads a letter from the protestors to LNIB Chief and Council dated Nov. 9.

“It is time for the Lower Nicola Indian Band membership to re-assume control over the decisions that affect our health and well-being.”

According to Mike, the protestors had met with Chief of LNIB Nicholas Peterson and Coun. Robin Humphrey in the morning on Nov. 10.

In this meeting, the protestors requested the termination of LNIB executive director Kari Reilander, director of human resources Lloyd Loveday and the human resources support worker and Elder, Richard Jackson.

In a letter to Chief and Council dated Nov. 9, the protestors claimed these three created “toxic atmospheres at all our Lower Nicola Indian Band offices where certain employees are allowed to engage in this type of behavior, and others are subjected to bullying, harassment and intimidation” for over nine years.

GOT NEWS?

The Herald spoke with Jackson, Humphrey and Peterson on Nov. 10, none of whom were able to provide comment on the situation at the time.

Mike said he hopes Reilander, Loveday and Jackson are at least put on suspension until the situation is resolved. He said he appreciates that Peterson was willing to take time and meet with him.

“His dedication is starting to show because he was willing to come sit down and listen to us and talk,” Mike said.

On Thursday, Nov. 13, the protest ended as the band continued with its decision to terminate Labelle’s employment according to protestor Arnie Narcisse.

Narcisse said that the band needed a couple of days to mull the decision over.

He remained dissapointed in the decision.

“(Bridget) was telling me she gave her life to the community,” Narcisse said about Labelle.

He said there are no future protest currently planned.

LNIB Chief, Council and staff have not provided comment on the situation to the Herald as of Tuesday, Nov. 18.

Contact Jake or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241 ,

HOUSE ARREST ORDERED FOR MERRITT MAN CHARGED WITH BESTIALITY

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

A Merritt man charged in a rare case of bestiality has been handed a 12-month conditional house arrest sentence at a treatment centre.

The courtroom was full on Nov. 18 for the disposition of Josiah Rogers, 28, who appeared in court alongside family and friends for the finale of the case stemming from an incident on Jan. 1, 2022. He was formally charged in April of this year, and has since been free on conditions prohibiting him from owning or being in contact with animals without the owner present.

In a previous court appearance on Sept. 2, a plea of guilty was indicated though not formally entered. That plea was made official on Nov. 18 in front of Judge Stella Frame.

Crown was first to present its case, which included a 55-page sworn statement taken in January of 2025 with Merritt RCMP. It was in the same month that Rogers allegedly disclosed to acquaintances that he was struggling with a pornography addiction, including that involving bestiality, and consulted members of his church for help.

It was then that police were contacted over concerns for cats under the care of Rogers, sparking a lengthy process of close to a dozen court dates before a final disposition.

In his statement, Rogers admitted to non-penetrative sexual acts with two cats within his household motivated by curiosity and sensation on multiple occasions, something he previously struggled with in his childhood, and that he knew it was morally wrong. The

statement suggested that these acts ceased by the end of summer 2023.

Veterinary inspections of the cats indicated that despite some fur loss around the rectum, there were no signs of penetration, something Crown indicated they were not alleging.

Crown did suggest a six to 12 month jail sentence, 24 months probation, as well as 10 years as a registered sexual offender. They also sought prohibition from animal ownership for life, something which defence was willing to agree upon.

Crown brought up a number of mitigating factors in its sentencing proposal, including that of a traumatic brain injury suffered as an infant in a motor vehicle accident. It argued that there was very little recent evidence of Rogers’ mental health and cognitive status, and though it acknowledged past mental cognitive disability, there was trouble in making a connection with the case.

At the time of the charge Rogers was living and caring for himself independently, though he has since spent time in a 120-day program for substance abuse called Together We Can in Vancouver despite no signs of suffering from substance abuse. When questioned as to the benefits of such a program for someone with non-substance-related issues, defence argued that the 12-step recovery program used in these facilities is beneficial to anyone with any addiction, and that they would be seeking a 12-month conditional sentence order to the treatment centre allowing for release for JUDGE: continued on page 4

LNIB Chief Nicholas Peterson talking with Indigenous Elder outside LNIB Band o ce on Monday, Nov. 10.

LIFETIME BAN FROM ANIMAL OWNERSHIP

HOUSE: continued from page 3

things like work or volunteering.

Defence lawyer Joe Killoran argued against jail time in the case, calling someone in Rogers’ mental condition a “sitting duck” to be victimized.

Killoran also presented letters from friends, neighbours and Rogers’ church group vouching for his strength of character.

“He needs his church, he needs his family, needs his case workers,” said Killoran. “When he has these things, he is in better shape.”

Killoran added that Rogers had no past criminal record, had abided by all bail conditions, and that he and his family had already been subjected to online vitriol since first being charged.

In handing down her sentence, which included 12 months house arrest at the treatment facility, 24 months probation, a

DNA registry and a lifetime ban of animal ownership, Judge Frame recognized that despite Rogers’ last cognitive assessment being conducted seven years ago, testing throughout the previous two decades of his life proved that the results of his traumatic brain injury as a child were life-long.

Rogers will be able to request leave from the facility during his stay for employment or volunteering purposes.

Conditions for the sentence include a promise to keep the peace, to immediately notify supervisors of any change in name or employment, and to not leave the province without permission from his supervisors.

After the sentencing, Rogers shared hugs with his family and well-wishers in attendance.

“I know I chose wrong things in my life,” he said, “but I am very sorry for my actions.”

MAYOR APPEALS AGAINST SCHOOL CLOSURE

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

As the third month of the 2025-26 school year comes to an end for School District 58, the elephant remains in the room as to which, if any, school will see a permanent closure. If it were up to Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz, neither of the two schools involved in these talks, Collettville Elementary and Merritt Central Elementary, would face this daunting realization. However, he is asking Minister of Education and Child Care Lisa Beare simply for more time to consider as local development could soon help alleviate the issue of empty classrooms.

“As mayor I have a simple request, that would be to hold off until summer of 2026 before moving in this direction,” said Goetz in a recent letter to the minister. “The reason for this request is that we are in the middle of a construction phase that could see close to 300 new jobs in the next 12 months.”

Capacity has long been one of the main factors in play when considering the closure of one of these SD58 schools, with Central currently at 63 per cent capacity and Collettville sitting at 57 per cent.

However, while traditional Nicola Valley industry such as logging continues to show a decline, Goetz believes that a recent boom in “lighter” new age industry could spark a boom in the population of school children as

well.

The Mako Furniture factory in Collettville, set for completion in the summer of 2026, will soon be in its first phase of hiring, which Goetz said could include 100-120 workers. Bell Canada’s new AI facility, under construction on its site adjacent to the Merritt Municipal Airport, is expected to be completed even earlier and create dozens of jobs.

Goetz topped off his pitch to the minister by acknowledging the Gateway 286 expansion project as well, scheduled for summer of 2026 with around 80-100 jobs.

“What I am asking for is time to get these business up and running and hiring. We could potentially see and influx of school-aged children over the next year, and possibly closing a school before these business are operating could be viewed as premature.

I know this is speculation and there are no guarantees as far as how many of these new hires would have children of school age, what we are asking for is just some time for us to reach these goals.”

Public consultation for school closure continues into December, with a session scheduled at Princeton Secondary on Dec. 1 at 7p.m. More consultations will be made available in the new year, with the board expected to begin the decision process by March.

FRONTLINEFILES

Three arrested after reports of shots red

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald. com

Three people have been arrested and Merritt RCMP are investigating following a report of shots ringing out early on the morning of Nov. 16.

Police responded to a report just after 3 a.m. on Sunday of shots allegedly fired from a vehicle in the 2000 block of Nicola Avenue. The suspect vehicle is thought to have struck a barrier while entering a parking lot, leading to a verbal altercation between its

occupants and another group of people.

As the suspect vehicle left the area, RCMP said shots were allegedly fired into the air, with no injuries reported.

The vehicle was located later that day at a residence in the 2300 block of Coutlee Ave., where it was seized and two suspects were taken into custody.

A search warrant executed on the residence led to a third suspect arrested, with bystander reports indicating the use of an amplified megaphone and drone

equipment in the search.

“Despite the lack of injuries, discharging a firearm in public is an extremely dangerous thing to do,” said Staff Sergeant Josh Roda, Detachment Commander for the Merritt RCMP.

“Merritt RCMP General Investigations Section has taken conduct of the investigation and are treating this as a priority.”

Anyone with more information who has not yet spoken with the police is asked to contact the Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.

HVAC

• Heat Pump, Wall Mounted Mini Splits

• Air Conditioning

• Dual Fuel System/Hybrid System

• Air Ducts & Sheet Metal

• Commercial Refrigeration

• Walk-in Cooler & Freezer

• Commercial Ventilation

• Exhaust Fan

Gas Fitting-Gas

NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT

DIGESTION MADE SIMPLE

BONNIE DIXON Healthy Conversations

We are truly amazing creatures. Food goes in, and well ~ you know what happens next. But in between, our bodies perform an incredible symphony of chemical reactions that break down food, extract nutrients, create energy, and repair our cells.

What we put into our bodies really does matter. We may think we’re eating “healthy,” but sometimes we don’t realize how our daily habits add up. After my Dad had a stroke at 50 his doctor said “Sam, stop eating the donut

Did you know your liver is the only organ in the body that can regenerate itself? While most organs can heal, the liver has the remarkable ability to rebuild damaged tissue. But that doesn’t mean it’s indestructible. In fact, many of our everyday habits can quietly stress or harm this vital organ long before we notice any symptoms. Before we talk about damage, it helps to understand just how hard your liver works for you ~ every single day.

Your liver performs over 500 essential functions, including:

- Filtering toxins, alcohol, and chemicals from your

every morning”. He just turned 95! He heeded the advice.

One of the best ways to understand your eating patterns is to write down what you eat for a week ~ or even two. You’ll begin to see patterns emerge: when you snack, what triggers certain cravings, and where you might want to make small shifts.

This isn’t about restriction. It’s about awareness. It’s not that you can’t enjoy eating out, fast food or treats ~ it’s actually the opposite. The goal is to fine-tune your taste buds so you genuinely enjoy the good stuff. As you fine-tune, you will begin to crave the fresh veggies, fruits, simple foods vs the high salt, high-fat fast food. Yesterday, for example, I had a light lunch of olives, red bell pepper strips, cheddar cheese, and almonds. I truly enjoyed every bite and felt satisfied afterward. My old self would have grabbed whatever was around, but I

bloodstream

- Breaking down and storing nutrients from the food you eat

- Helping balance hormones

- Supporting your immune system

- Producing bile for digestion

- Managing blood sugar and energy levels

With all that responsibility, it’s no wonder the liver can become overwhelmed.

So how do we damage our livers?

A high-sugar, highly processed diet contributes to fat buildup in the liver. Excess alcohol remains a major cause of liver disease. Add common environmental toxins—cleaners, fragrances, pesticides—and the liver can get overworked. Even certain medications, when used too often or incorrectly, can strain its detox pathways.

If your liver becomes inflamed or fatty, the encouraging news is this: the liver can repair itself, especially

chose to be mindful of what I was eating. That small pause made all the difference.

One of my favorite books is How to Eat by Thich Nhat Hanh, the father of mindfulness. He reminds us that eating can be a sacred act~ an opportunity to slow down, breathe, and truly connect with our food.

Here are a few simple tips from his teachings:

- Eat slowly and without distraction.

- Notice the colors, textures, and aromas of your food.

- Be grateful for the farmers, sun, and rain that made your meal possible.

- Stop eating when you feel satisfied, not stuffed. Mindful eating not only improves digestion ~ it nourishes the soul.

when we remove the stressors. Cutting back on alcohol, choosing whole foods over packaged ones, and reducing chemical exposure all give the liver room to recover. Foods that support repair and daily function include:

- Leafy greens like spinach and kale

- Cruciferous veggies such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts

- Garlic and onions to activate detox enzymes

- Beets to improve blood flow

- Citrus fruits for antioxidant support

- Berries rich in protective polyphenols

- Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil

Your liver works tirelessly for you. With a few mindful choices, you can return the favor and keep this powerhouse organ thriving for years to come.

ART-TASTIC!

This week’s submissions were by Janaya Laboucan (Top) and Jasmine Bates (Bottom) Community members, teachers and students...

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

Two men lost their lives in the accident last Thursday morning when a lumber truck driven by Ohillip Omer St. Louis plunged into the icy waters of Nicola Lake near the bluffs not far from the spot where a truck burnt a week ago.

NOV. 8, 1989

GRANT BRINGS KOWLEDGE NETWORK TO UPPER NICOLA AREA RESIDENTS

A $112,400 grant to bring the Knowledge Network to residents of Quilchena and the Upper Nicola Indian Band was announced last Wednesday by Yale-Lillooet MLA Jim Rabbitt and Minister of Regional Development Elwood Veitch.

CLUB MEETING REMINDER

Date: Nov 18, 2025 • Time: 7:00 PM

NOVEMBER 30

Holiday Festivities

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

$5 | 10AM - 12PM

MERRITT CIVIC CENTRE *PROCEEDS GO TO: BASQUE SOCIETY

HOLIDAY CHEER FREE | 11:30 AM - 4:00 PM

MERRITT CIVIC CENTRE STORYTIME | GAMES | ACTIVITIES | TOY DRIVE

SANTA VISITS THE POOL FREE | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

NICOLA VALLEY AQUATIC CENTRE GAMES | ACTIVITIES | PICTURES WITH SANTA

Business Licence Bylaw

Notice is hereby given of a public input opportunity, during the REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING, for those who consider they are affected by the proposed amendments to the Business Licence Bylaw. Those wishing to provide input can attend in person and sign up to speak during the meeting.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2025

COUNCIL CHAMBER, 2185 VOGHT STREET, MERRIT BC

PROVIDE INPUT: We welcome your input on November 25, 2025, at 6:00 pm. You may sign up to speak at the meeting by attending in person at City Hall, Council Chamber, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, at 6:00 pm. You may also provide a written submission at any time prior to the meeting by sending it to the Director of Corporate Services at info@merritt.ca.

* PICTURES WITH SANTA: 8 - 9PM FRIDAY | 11AM - 1PM SATURDAY * CHILDREN’S CRAFTS: 11AM - 2PM SATURDAY

RIBBON PRESENTATION: 12PM SATURDAY

MORE INFORMATION: Relevant background material and copies of the bylaw are available for review at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, from November 14, 2025 to November 25, 2025 or at www.merritt.ca/agendas-minutes.

Land Disposition

Pursuant to Sections 24, 26 and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Merritt hereby gives notice of its intention to dispose, by way of lease, the City owned lot located at 2025 Mamette Ave, Merritt, BC, legally described as Lot 2, Plan 22544, District Lot 174, Kamloops Division, PID #006-810-853, (as shown on the map) to be used as the Merritt Curling Centre.

The disposition is by way of lease to the Merritt Curling Club. The term of the lease will be for 5 years, beginning in 2025, with one option to renew for a further term of five years. The rent will be based on the seasonal energy consumption used, estimated to be $8,000 per year.

Questions? Contact Dave Zakall at dzakall@merritt ca or 250-378-4224.

FRONTLINEFILES

Attempted carjacker sees prison time

TIM PETRUK Castanet

A man who tried to carjack multiple vehicles while running from police outside Merritt earlier this year has been sentenced to eight months in prison.

Wayne Richard Twan, 39, was sentenced on Thursday in Kamloops provincial court after pleading guilty to charges of dangerous driving, attempted theft under $5,000, mischief and resisting a peace officer.

Twan was on bail in March on unrelated charges, required to live under house arrest conditions in Merritt. He skipped out on his bail on March 6, which is when Mounties in and around Merritt began to keep an eye out for him and the distinct Saturn he was driving.

Police believe they spotted the vehicle twice the next morning — once near Ashcroft and again outside Logan Lake — but it fled both times at a high speeds.

Officers set up a spike belt just north of Merritt and punctured three of the Saturn’s tires. The scene played out a little after 8 a.m. at the junction of Highway 97C and Highway 8.

Once his vehicle stopped, Twan jumped out and took off running.

Attempted carjacking

Crown prosecutor Oliver Potestio said Twan ran up to another car and started pounding on the driver’s window with his fist, eventually breaking it and sending glass flying all over the driver, a woman in her 60s

“He was attempting to open the driver’s side door in what can only be described as an attempt to carjack the vehicle,” Potestio said.

Twan was unable to get the woman’s door open, so he tried the door handle on another vehicle before approaching a third — sliding his fingers inside the window in an attempt to force it open.

“It was slightly down so that he was able to put his fingers inside and he was attempting to pull on the window,” Potestio said.

The woman driving the third vehicle dug her nails into Twan’s hand and stepped on the gas.

“He wouldn’t let go, so she put the vehicle in drive and drove away, and for a brief moment dragged Mr. Twan several feet before he let go and continued running from police,” Potestio said.

But the pursuit did not end there. With Mounties hot on his trail, Twan kept running — straight into a nearby house, where Potestio said a man was enjoying his morning coffee. Twan was arrested without incident inside the home.

‘A hidden blessing’ Defence lawyer Jeff Maxwell said Twan has led a pro-social life, at various times owning businesses and raising children, but his life spiralled with addiction following the breakdown of his family.

Twan was apologetic and emotional when asked by the judge if he had anything to say. He said he’s taken advantage of all programming offered to him in prison and has been working out.

“This incarceration has been a hidden blessing. I’ve been very busy these past nine months and I’ve found God,” he said. “I’m truly grateful for the second chance. I was headed down a very dark path, so it feels promising.”

Kamloops provincial court Judge Stella Frame went along with a joint submission for eight months in prison plus 18 months of probation. He was also ordered to pay $200 in restitution for the broken car window.

Twan has been in jail since his arrest in March, making the sentence one of time served.

He will remain behind bars, detained on charges of sexual assault and assault with a trial scheduled for next year.

Monday, Dec. 8, 2024 at 7 PM In the clubhouse at 1450 Juniper Drive,

Crime Stoppers launching fundraiser for public awareness

The Crime Stoppers’ fundraising campaign will last from Dec. 1 to 31.

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Crime never sleeps, and neither does Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers.

The local organization is launching its first-ever year-end fundraising campaign from Dec. 1 to Dec. 31, titled ‘Protecting Our Community Together’. The campaign aims to raise funds to support operational costs and expand the society’s appearance at community events throughout the region.

“Our society has been working hard to increase our presence in the community,” said Community Policing Coordinator Marlene Jones. “We have been doing some awareness events but are hoping to increase our capacity heading into next year.”

As crime throughout the region continues to evolve, Crime Stoppers must as well to provide citizens, especially the most vulnerable such as seniors, with the tools and knowledge to stay safe.

Jones said that funds raised through the campaign will go towards producing educational pamphlets, purchasing promotional items, and building an inventory of outreach materials for use at local events.

“We believe that crime prevention starts with awareness so with your support, we can reach more people, share vital information, and help protect our community from the threats we all face.”

Jones added that there is no specific goal for the fundraiser, just that any amount given is appreciated and charitable tax receipts are available.

“We haven’t identified a fundraising goal because we understand that things may be tight for some currently we just appreciate any donation that can help us share crime prevention information. The more we receive, the better we can connect.”

Donations can be made at www.nicolavalleycrimestoppers.com by clicking the ‘Donate Now 2025’ button.

Looking to lend a hand in a different way? Crime Stoppers is always looking for anyone interested in helping attend community events, and are asked to contact the society by email through the website. All necessary training will be provided.

You can also follow Merritt and Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers on Facebook at www.facebook.com/merrittcs.

Country Christmas Committee presents

MERRITT COUNTRY CHRISTMAS WEEK

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2025

MERRITT COMMUNITY & CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT UP W/SING-ALONG

Monday, November 24

6 pm at Spirit Square

NVIT CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Tuesday, November 25

NVIT Auditorium - doors open at 6 pm, movie 6:30 pm

ADVENTURES IN TOYLAND

Wednesday, November 26

Merritt Civic Center

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Thursday, November 27

7 pm at Merritt Civic Center (doors open at 6 pm)

Matinee at noon (doors open at 11 am)

Evening at 5 pm (doors open at 4 pm)

PICTURES WITH SANTA Merritt Civic Center

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Merritt Civic Center

Friday, November 28: 2 pm to 9 pm

Saturday, November 29: 8:30 am to 4 pm

LIGHT-UP CHRISTMAS PARADE

Friday, November 28

7 pm start (parade line up starts 5:00pm)

Friday, November 28: 8 pm to 9 pm

Saturday, November 29: 11am to 1 pm

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CRAFTS

Merritt Civic Center

Presented by: Nicola Valley Arts Council

Saturday, November 29: 11am to 2 pm

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Merritt Civic Center

Presented by: Basque Society

Watch the parade as it happens on the Country Christmas Facebook Page. See map below for parade route or visit MERRITT.CA/CHRISTMAS

Sunday, November 30:10 am - noon

Country kicking-offChristmas soon

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

Locally-beloved festival Country Christmas is coming back for another year, with a week of holiday joy.

This years’ celebrations last from Nov. 24 to 30.

“Everybody have fun, enjoy,” said Country Christmas co-organizer Carrie Ware. “All of the events are 100 per cent free for our community members and we will always try to keep it that way.”

Starting Monday, Nov. 24, celebrations will begin as usual with the Community Christmas Tree light-up and sing-along at 6 p.m. at Spirit Square.

Coming Tuesday, Nov. 25, the festival has got NVIT on board, with the institution hosting a showing of How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) at 6 p.m. in the auditorium.

Wednesday, Nov. 26, the community will gather to support local youth dancing, as the Love to Dance Academy will host its winter show, Adventures in Toyland at noon and at 5 p.m. at the Merritt Civic Centre.

“(The dance production) is absolutely amazing,” Ware said.

Thursday, Nov. 27 will be the Community Christmas Concert at 6 p.m. at the Merritt Civic Centre. The concert will feature a variety of local talent that is not just limited to singing. Ware said there will be ukulele and harp performances as well.

Friday will be packed with activities as the Country Christmas Craft Fair starts. After that, at 7 p.m. the light-up Christmas parade will start.

Ware claimed Merritt’s parade for Country Christmas week has historically had huge turnouts, with more floats coming in here than in some larger cities.

“The ongoing joke for the parade night was half the town was in the parade, the other half was watching,” she said. “It’s amazing, the number of floats that we can have in the parade.”

Ware said last year they had around 50 floats. While this year may not have as many, she said she expects a last minute rush of people getting in.

Saturday and Sunday will feature a variety of activities, including the continuation of the craft fair, as well as a parade ribbon presentation and a games period.

Ware and others organizing Country Christmas had put countless hours into organizing this community staple. She said she doesn’t regret a thing.

“The looks on people’s faces, the joy in seeing the kids waving as the floats go by,” she said.

“Watching the glow of the senior’s faces as they’re waving from the bus at the people, and the people waving back at them.”

“That holiday cheer and joy that you don’t always get unless you’re willing to put the time and effort into putting something like this on.”

A map of the Country Christmas parade has been posted on the Country Christmas facebook page as well as the City of Merritt’s facebook and the Merritt Herald.

PHOTOS/HERALD FILE

Santa Claus and Merritt Girl Guides waving to the crowd during a previous Country Christmas parade.

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NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS

More medals for local Taekwondo stars

TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

Martial arts practitioners from Merritt’s Baek’s Taekwondo Academy are returning home with some silverware once again.

The young students of the academy are following up on a series of successful tournament results during an event in Edmonton.

This time, the tema took to Calgary to compete in the 2025 Calgary Open Taekwondo Championship.

Head instructor at Baek’s, Gary Abbott said the kids had to “fight hard” to get their medals this time, with over 500 other competitors enrolled as well.

“Our kids had to fight hard for every medal they came home with,” Abbott said.

RESULTS

Poomsae division;

- Shreeni Thaker, seven-years old, bronze medal.

- Shane Jules, seven-years old, gold medal.

- Sonika Sonika, 13-years old, bronze medal.

- Haper Anderson, 12-years old, gold medal.

- Lenaya Spahan, 12-years old, gold medal.

- Nikhil Vinoj, 15-years old, gold medal.

- Colten Forgaard 15-years old, silver medal.

- Mya Sheldon, 16-years old, silver medal.

- Monika Monika 16-years old, silver medal.

Joella Machenzie, silver medal.

Kyrogi division;

- Haper Anderson, silver medal.

- Owen Batican, 14 years-old, silver medal.

- Nikhil Vinoj, silver medal.

- Colten Forgaard, gold medal.

- Monika Monika, silver medal.

Abbott mentioned this will likely be the last tournament of the year for academy students.

He said one of the struggles for Merritt kids is the lack of reliable transport. Abbott said he hopes to forge a relationship with a partner that can provide transportation for students for future tournaments.

NEXT HOME GAME

Wendy Welsh, Barb Steep, Rusty Brewer, Betty Douberstein and the Rodeo Association, Boston Pizza, and to all the people who attended or supported the team’s Icebreaker

PHOTOS/GARY ABBOTT

Two students from Baek’s Taekwondo Academy holding their medals.

Booming repower from Cents carries win vs. Osoyoos

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

In the wake of the blowout defeat against the Kelowna Chiefs, the Merritt Centennials aimed to change their momentum coming into last weekend’s games.

Friday, Nov. 14 - Merritt Centennials 8 - Osoyoos Coyotes 2

The first game of two-match home stretch saw a packed crowd for the hometown Centennials. On their website, the Centennials state 872 people poured into the Nicola Valley Arena Friday night in support of the team.

The crowd that night was handedly rewarded for their support, with the Centennials having no problem firing-up their offence out of the gates.

A penalty in the third minute by the Cents’ Troy Horn gave enough space for Koehn Obuck of the Coyotes to open the scorecards for the game on the power play.

Though less than 10 seconds of play later, Troy Horn checked back into the game and scored his third goal of the season.

Three minutes later, the momentum was quickly shifting towards the Centennials. Callum MacLean scored on the power play after a penalty on the Osoyoos player Jasper Thomas.

The Centennials would dominate the period, scoring two more goals with strikes from Steven Foster and Ryker Swanson in less than two minutes.

The Cents would continue to pour on the pain in the middle frame. Callum MacLean, Steven Foster and Troy Horn all scored again in the middle of the second period to make the game 7-1 in favour of Merritt.

The third period saw the game slow down, practically finished. Jack Wideman scored his first-ever goal for the Centennials in the opening period of this frame.

At the 6:40 mark of the third, Russell Weatherhead of

the Coyotes closed out the scoring action for the game, bagging a consultation goal for the visitors.

A fight broke out between six players at the 10:18 mark, with both teams receiving numerous penalties.

The game ended in a whopping 8 - 2 victory for the Centennials.

Sunday, Nov. 16 - Merritt Centennials 2 - Williams Lake Mustangs 4

The Centennials looked to have another great night out, two days after their 8-2 dismantling of the Osoyoos Coyotes.

The Mustangs would prove a much tougher challenge than the Cents’ divisional rivals in the Coyotes.

In the first minute of the opening period, Williams Lake took the first goal with a strike from Kaelen Swanson.

Action was sparse for a long while after, with no goals for the rest of the period and well into the middle frame.

At the 10:18 mark of the second, Troy Horn took his fifth goal of the season, tying the game at 1-1.

Unfortunately, Declan Pocock would score again for the Mustangs in the final minute of the period, reclaiming the lead for the Mustangs.

In the third, prominent-assister Gairen Bona bagged a goal, equalizing the game at 2-2.

At the 17:00 mark of the final frame, Alex Cordero was called into the penalty box for a holding call.

The man advantage led to a goal from the Mustangs’ Keenan Holland just ten seconds after the call. A minute later, Kaelen Swanson scored his second, sealing the game for the Mustangs with a final score of 4-2.

The Merritt Centennials won’t be home for a while. They’re going on a three-game road trip next weekend playing the Kimberley Dynamite, Fernie Ghostriders and the Creston Valley Thunder Cats.

The Centennials will return to the Nicola Valley Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 26 to play the Revelstoke Grizzlies once again.

NVIT sees local volleyball action during tournament

PHOTO/TY LIM

Merritt’s big win against the Osoyoos Coyotes diluted by loss to Williams Lake Mustangs.

NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY

Snowmobile club to draw visitors for adventure tourism

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

A new study by a B.C. organization highlights the benefits of outdoor tourism in the province. The tourism industry in Merritt is looking to capitalize on that.

A recently published study by the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC shows 79 per cent of domestic travellers in B.C. participate in what’s called adventure tourism.

Adventure tourism can include anything as small as going on a hike, to more thrilling activities like snowmobiling, mountain biking or even as electrifying as skydiving.

The survey states the Thompson-Okanagan is a popular region for outdoor tourism.

PHOTOS/MERRITT SNOWMOBILE CLUB

Simon Rizzardo, vice-president of the Merritt Snowmobile Club, said the club has plans this year to captivate the public.

Show.

Rizzardo said outdoor tourism is a large revenue driver that supports rural communities. He said it needs investment from the provincial government to stay operational.

“Without the BC Snowmobile Federation lobbying the government to say, we wan to keep these back roads and forest service roads open and access the back country. If you don’t (lobby) we lose it,” Rizzardo said.

Rizzardo said the trails for snowmobiling and mountain biking near Merritt are competitive with some of the most highly-touted routes in B.C., including Revelstoke.

The isolated mountains and

smooth, beginner-friendly trails provide the perfect space for people to learn or to enjoy a calmer ride than they would find elsewhere.

“Nothing better than to be on a sled and get that cool mountain air and be active,” he said.

The club is doing multiple things to market the Nicola Valley area to outsiders.

For one, it participated in the revamped Provincial Snow Show in Enderby, which happened on Nov. 14 and 15.

“We’re going to be representing the Merritt and Nicola Valley for for promoting, bringing people in to come sledding in our area,” Rizzardo said.

He said they’re promoting their ladies ride in particular. The club’s

ladies ride is a large scale event that brings in female riders from all over the province. Last year, the club had over 40 attendees. This year’s ride is happening on Jan. 17.

Rizzardo said the trail on Pine mountain has three trial groomers ready to go for this year.

As for if the marketing works, Rizzardo believes it does.

He said he often travels to other places in the province to go snowmobiling. Most recently, he used an example of him and his son going to Hunter’s Range in Enderby for a special ride.

Rizzardo said he spent hundreds of dollars across the whole trip in the community, supporting business and the local snowmobile club.

“I’ve been to the last four events there and I’m getting to know some of their members over there. They know me by name and that means something to me, because that makes me want to go back,” he said.

The Outdoor Recreation Council survey said that on average, domestic participants going on day trips spend around $417 dollars in the community they’re visiting.

On overnight trips, this number can increase to over $1,126 if the tourist participates in “adventure” activities.

He believes tourism can boost - not replace - some of the economy of Merritt.

Rizzardo said more members of the snowmobile club will help it sustain itself.

Contact Jake or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

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

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

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-319-8823

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

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

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

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

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church

1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Service Times: Sunday 10 am

Motion Church Merritt

Sundays 10 am

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

Merritt Snowmobile Club vice-president Simon Rizzardo showing o some of the club’s equipment at the BC Provincial Snow

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

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Debbie Mann

December 7, 1952

– November 2, 2025

Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night

Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

On November 2, 2025, with her loving daughter by her side, Debbie Mann passed away peacefully at the Marjorie Willoughby Hospice in Kamloops, BC.

Debbie was predeceased by her beloved son Clayton Mann, her parents Bill and Jean Allsopp, and her brother Gordon Allsopp. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Teela-Dawn Mann, her sister Wendy Flanagan (Patrick), and her brother Arnie Smith (Donna), as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightening they Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright

Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Being with people who are dying in conscious and caring ways is of value to them and us. Their reminiscences and our care contribute to a legacy that enriches our lives.

Born on December 7, 1952, in Burnaby, BC, Debbie spent most of her adult life in Merritt, BC. She worked for many years as a lunchtime supervisor at local elementary schools, where she took great joy in watching the children grow and succeed—always proud of them as if they were her own.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight

Debbie will be fondly remembered for her famous samosas, her kind and generous spirit, and her lifelong love of animals.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads Church.

Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

In lieu of owers, donations in Debbie’s memory may be made to the Marjorie Willoughby Hospice in Kamloops.

And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. by Dylan Thomas

Thynne Mountain Woodlot Co. Ltd, on behalf of the licence holder for Woodlot Licence W0391, is preparing a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) for approval. A draft version is available for review and comment and once approved, the term of the plan will be for 10 years. The woodlot encompasses two areas of crown land – 400 ha northeast of Glimpse Lake and a second 200ha area approx. 8km southwest of Aspen Grove. The woodlot is located within the Merritt TSA of the Cascades Forest District.

The Plan is available for review and comment until January 31, 2026. Please contact Rene Thomsen RPF at the email address noted below to arrange for viewing of the plan, provide comments or provide information about speciﬁc resource features that may be unknown to the proponent.

To ensure consideration, written comments must be submitted to Rene Thomsen RPF at TMWoodlot@gmail.com before January 31, 2026.

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.