Want news straight to your inbox? Scan the QR code to subscribe to our daily newsletter.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2025
MORE SHELTER OPTIONS COMING DURING EXTREME WEATHER
10 more spaces will be available at the NVSSS shelter, formerly the Knight’s Inn.
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
More people will have shelter this year during extreme weather events in Merritt. With winter approaching and temperatures set to drop below 0 C within the next week, the Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society (NVSSS) is announcing it is adding extreme weather response beds to its services.
The beds will be located at the NVSSS shelter at the former Knight’s Inn property at 2702 Nicola Ave. Currently, that property has capacity for 40 beds. The extreme weather response beds will add another 10 spaces.
NVSSS emphasized that these spaces are temporary and to be used situationally when temperatures drop below -10 C.
“Our goal remains simple,” NVSSS director INTAKE: continued on page 3
PASSPORT TO CHRISTMAS
It’s back! The Herald’s Passport to Christmas contest is back for another
Find participating businesses inside.
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
SAFETY PRIORITIZED DURING LARGER SHELTER INTAKE
MORE: continued from pg. 1
Nyasha Manyaye said in a press release. “When people have a safe place to sleep, the whole community is safer.”
NVSSS recognized the importance of safety for shelter members a nd the security of nearby communities in the press release. It said that people wishing to use the EWR beds will have to go through the same intake process that applicants to the regular shelter go through. Manyanye
said this includes wellness checks and support.
“This initiative is a preventative, life-saving measure to ensure everyone has a safe place to stay when conditions become dangerous,” he said.
The shelter will also have additional staff to compensate for the higher capacity.
GOT NEWS?
Contact Jake or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
The EWR beds will be replacing the previous temporary EWR shelter at 1755 Coldwater Ave. as the location closed upon the opening of the shelter at the Knight’s Inn.
NVSSS states this EWR program is being backed by funding from the B.C. government through the BC Housing’s Extreme Weather Response program as well as a partnership with the City of Merritt.
“We’re very glad to be partnering with the Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society and the City of Merritt to ensure local shelter spaces for people experiencing homelessness will be available as the temperatures continue to drop,” said B.C. Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Christine Boyle.
NEW MERRITT CAO BRINGS WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE INTO ROLE
JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com
Rick Green has been named the new City of Merritt CAO, after stepping into the role in an interim capacity following the departure of Cynthia White in October. The Herald sat down with Green to hear more about his experience as well as what he hopes to bring to the role as the city’s top employee.
How has the transition been into the role of CAO?
Really good. Obviously, there’s a
little bit of turmoil and everybody’s trying to fill things in and try and make some decisions. I’m very happy that council has trust in what I can provide for them rather than taking a long period of time to sort things out by maybe advertising (for the position), putting a headhunter out there. That can cripple an organization for four to 12 months easily, by the time you find somebody, they get themselves settled, learn the city. I’ve made it a point of mind to stick my nose into as many things as I can since I’ve been here.”
Two CAOs ago, I downloaded him
(former CAO Sean Smith) pretty well before he left. So just about everything that was in his head, I tried to get into my mind so that we at least had that continuity going forward to provide that person the opportunity to take their time to get to know their council. The CAO has to be focused on council. The operation still has to run, and that’s where that continuity really has to work.”
You were previously Director of Public Works?
Since August of ‘22. Before that, Stettler County in
Central Alberta.
What are some of the major projects you’ve overseen in your role with the City of Merritt?
So within Meritt, obviously the Voght Street improvements, that was a
project that was designed before I got here and it was given to me to take over the finish line. It had a lot of funding grief and components to it, things like roundabouts have been talked about. We did the intersection of the hospital and I
had to reinvent that to make it work a little bit more functionally.
I’ve been involved with the West Merritt active transportation path since it was out to tender. That’s been a three year job getting that going, and that goes from the Main Street Bridge all the way through Collettville up Quilchena, through downtown towards Home Hardware and then over to the new bridge. So we’re just finishing up the last little bit, we’re doing an exercise structure, sort of right where it goes in behind Quilchena just before Spring. We built a little
court area and I’ve ordered all the equipment to fill that in. That should be in shortly. That’s sort of that last $50,000 of grant money that we had on that project. Those are some of the big ones. We’re doing a lot of studies. I did the East Merritt utility corridor study with some consultants, I’ve done some transportation planning studies. River Ranch Road for example, we’ve got a roundabout sort of roughed in for that big intersection at McDonald’s up there. We’ve done some study work on
the southeast entrance in the town off the highway, going off at 286. So a hand in a lot of different areas, with a lot of different players. I stay out of the pool and the arena and things like that, but everything else you can kind of lend that senior level of context or anything you can.
So your experience should make this sort of transition a little easier.
Yeah, even where I was before, I was part of what you call the senior team. There was three of us that did the bulk
PATIENCE: continued on pg. 4
PHOTO/TY LIM
The Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society shelter is located at 2702 Nicola Ave.
City of Merritt CAO Rick Green
PATIENCE A VIRTUE IN GETTING CITY PROJECTS DONE PROPERLY
of covering for the CEO and taking part in all of the strategic specifics as it relates to where the municipality was going forward and how to deal with certain situations.
How did your name come up to take over the CAO position?
Well, the mayor immediately needed somebody to act while they sort of took a step back and figured out what they were going to do. So the choice made at that point was, am I able to put the time into acting (CAO)? And at that point, yeah, I cancelled all my holidays that I had until the fall and said, ‘I’m here to help and I will do whatever I can to help get over that line’. And then over the next number of weeks, a conversation turned into, are you interested in doing this full time? Obviously, there were concerns with all the other things that I do, I’m already director of two different departments. which are full-time jobs in themselves. So, The concern is taking me out of that. Do we have the people in place to pass that torch onto one of those departments again? And I believe we have the confidence in a couple of people who will be able to make that work, especially when you wear so many hats. Because the focus now has to be on council, and sort of the organization in general, I can’t just focus on capital work and maintenance work and all the development stuff. And the difference in the development services team over the last year has been huge. The staff has been coming along and been a lot more proactive, which is kind of the way I like it.
So you mentioned council. Council has to have a very broad umbrella of what they cover, and like you said, your new position has to be a lot more broad. So what has your relationship been like with council?
Really good. I believe they have a lot of respect for the knowledge, and through our attention to the meetings over the years, I believe I’ve done a very good job of providing them good, calm, sound advice on things, and I’m not easily rattled. So I want them to challenge them. If they’ve got questions, I want to hear about them so we can sort them out.
One of the key things that I’ve noticed, I’ve been dealing with councillors probably the last 25 years on a regular basis. I was in the consulting industry for a lot of years, providing municipal services through the consultancy to various organizations all over Western Canada in a lot of cases. So the one thing that’s common all the time is listening for what that specific community needs and making sure that the advice you give them furthers what they need.
A lot of the public sector that I’ve seen in the past, it’s a little bit more about billable hours and what is the company that’s providing new services making. I’ve always tried to make a name on doing things for the right reasons, which is why I like municipal work, I don’t have to be a salesman anymore. You can be that person who says, let’s make a good decision for the right reasons and try and have that long range look at what we’re building or what we’re trying to do rather than what’s the immediate benefit.
But my goal there all the time is to give council good advice. I want to hear what they have to say, and quite honestly, if we haven’t got something right and there’s lots of questions, let’s pull back. Let’s look at it again and let’s bring it back to them with a little bit more research and possibly a little bit more directed to where they need to go. The discomfort I always find is that if we’re rushing something through or trying to wedge something in too fast, we’re gonna come back and have to do more work on it later because at some point three, four months down the road, it’ll get questioned, and then it takes much more time to go back and try and do things over again.
Lastly, how would you describe yourself professionally?
I’m a builder. Even though I’m getting a little bit old these days, whether it’s teams, whether it’s organizations or whether it’s communities, that’s what I like. I’ve always been that way in my world. People are the catalyst for everything that we do. Nothing happens without people, so I tend to focus on the people in an organization, the people in a community. And I’m a great listener. I try not to talk over people. I try to leave my opinion at home as a rate payer myself. When I come to work, I have my work hat on here, and have my home hat on there, and I try not to wear both at the same time.
LAND DISPUTE COULD BE NEARING END
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
The Upper Nicola Indian Band is claiming it is getting closer to settling a historical dispute over tens of thousands of acres of land commonage with Douglas Lake.
In a recent update video from the Upper Nicola Indian Band (UNB Live), former Chief and Councillor Fred (Scotty) Holmes said the band is edging closer to a resolution on a commonage claim over Douglas Lake grounds worth 18,553 acres of land.
“We are making some progress,” Holmes said. “Hopefully we can have this done by the (end) of the fiscal year.”
The commonage claim dates back to 1888 when Gilbert Malcolm Sproat of the Joint Indian Reserve Commission set aside 18,553 acres of land for use between Upper Nicola Syilx people as well as settlers.
A year later, Sproat was succeeded in his role by Patrick O’reiley. On Nov. 12, 1889, O’Reiley wrote in a letter that the land commonage set aside by Sproat was “no longer required for Indian purposes.”
O’Reiley also wrote that “the reservation of this (illegible) be cancelled and t he land thrown open to settlement.”
On August 11, 1890, the LieutenantGovernor of B.C. at the time ordered commonage to be cancelled in a letter. Settlers proceeded to buy the former land set aside for commonage.
The band said they have tried to negotiate twice before with the Federal government for compensation of the lost land; in 2005 and in 2015. Holmes said both times the Federal government walked away from negotiations.
Ten years later, Upper Nicola Band seems to have hope once again. Holmes said negotiations are in the third-phase of what he describes as a four-phase process.
Phase one, Holmes described as research into historical claims and boundaries; Phase two is finishing land appraisals for compensation as well as claims of cultural fracturing; phase three would be the start of negotiations; and phase four would be coming to an agreement.
Holmes said he hopes to see progress done in the fall.
In a possible resolution of the situation that favours the band, land would be returned to the Upper Nicola Indian Band.
As outlined in the phases, Holmes would expect compensation to be due as well.
At the end of the update, Holmes expressed confidence in getting a resolution.
“It’s going to get resolved. You’re going to get the land. You’re going to get your compensation, we just don’t know how long it’s going to take us.”
FRIDAY NOV. 28TH 9AM - 10 PM SATURDAY NOV. 29TH 9AM - 5PM
NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT
ARTS COUNCIL ROUNDUP: MERRITT’S NEWEST MURAL
The summer of 2025 saw many City Arts projects completed, among them one of our favourites - the washrooms at Voght Park, near the dog park. Designed by digital artist Astralis Snee and painted by our summer team Janelle Gage and Kari Kroeker, this mural brings joy to all who walk or drive by. Vibrant colours, an engaging design, and a cute Instagram background - this mural has it all.
Artist Astralis Snee talks about their creative process for this mural:
“When the NVCAC’s president, Mischelle, asked me to create a mural in Merritt, I was thrilled. Street art surrounded me growing up in Chile, and my favourite metro station, Universidad de Chile, is covered from floor to ceiling in a mural. Waiting for the metro there was never tiresome—I could always discover new details and piece together the story being told without a single
word.
While my work in Merritt was on a smaller, more humble scale, I felt the mural needed to speak for itself. I asked myself:
‘What do I think of Merritt? What do I want others to know about this city when they see this mural?’
That’s how the creative process began. I wanted the mural—especially its main facade—to convey ‘opportunity’ and ‘community’ through vibrant colours, dynamic shapes, and playful elements. Diversity matters to me, which is why the children on the hill reflect different backgrounds. I also wanted to honour Indigenous peoples: the main face overlooking the valley features colours and braids often associated with Indigenous identity, and two qimmit sit on the lower corners, their gaze directed toward the centre, serving as a symbolic cornerstone. These dogs were significant
to many Indigenous nations in what we now call Canada. Their history has been tragically affected by colonialism, yet they continue to exist, and their bond with humans and historical contribution endure. Creating a mural for a dog park felt like the perfect opportunity to include them, even if they weren’t specific to the traditional territories of the Nlaka’pamux and Syilx peoples.
I hope visitors can enjoy the park with their dogs, surrounded by the enthusiastic burst of colour from my digital d esign, faithfully brought to life by Karianne and Janelle, and that it makes locals and visitors alike feel welcome beyond the park itself, connecting with Merritt’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.
PHOTO/NICOLA VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL Left to right: Astralis Snee (they/them), Janelle Gage, Kari Kroeker in front of the new mural.
MITRA: AN ADVENT MESSAGE
NARAYAN MITRA You Gotta Have Faith
Beginning with the first Sunday in Advent, which fell this year on Nov. 23, the world once more drew near the message and the meaning of the birth of Emmanuel, the Lord Jesus Christ.
As we look back at Christian history the past 2,000 years, the words of Saint Paul: “When the fullness of time was come, God sent forth His Son” (Galatians 4:4), seem rather hollow these days.
Was humanity really ready and waiting for the coming of Christ at that time? Are they, even today? Or, did He break in upon the human paradigms too soon?
The gospels declare that the gaping and the curious crowds were waiting for the revelation of the Messiah always.
They would stare with curious eyes for anyone who could work a cheap miracle or give them bread without sweat or security without toil.
But aside from them and what they represented, was humanity waiting for the coming of the Advent in some universal sense?
What about our own day?
If we were to take the question in the world of politics, business, international relations or even to the modern habitat, what would we find?
We would encounter people who still claim that, in order to survive, a person must not only be physically strong and fit but must always look out to be the numero uno.
The gospel of the brave, holding up the arms of the faint-hearted or of denying one’s life in order to realize its fullness, seems to make dismal reading in these times when brute force appears to be the only language this world will listen to or attempt to understand. Surely we would be forced to discount the 21st century as the least feasible time and declare: “Jesus came too soon, this Christ of peace, people are not ready for Him yet.”
We would be tempted to add it was too soon to teach people that the road to humility is the way to spiritual
leadership, power and victory.
Too soon to convince that self-renunciation is the way to lasting success and moral maturity.
Too soon to advise belligerent nations and groups – the Taliban, the Boko Haram, ISIL, Hamas – that enslavement of others is treachery against the sanctity of the human soul and deserves vengeance of God.
However, we still have the words of Paul that, at the right time, God sent forth His Son.
At that time, wherever Jesus went or whenever He appeared, apart from some irresponsible and wavering crowds, there were invariably those poor and spiritually beleaguered folks who were “all waiting for Him”
( Luke 8:40).
This is what is meant by the fullness of time. How providentially the external conditions and circumstances helped in the preparation for this zero hour in the spiritual destiny of the human race. For 100 years before Jesus came, the known world had been merely a loose aggregation of warring states and tail end of decaying empires.
Then Rome took over and, under pax romana, rivalry and discord gave way to unity and peace.
Freedom to move without passports or fear sped the early messengers of Christ bearing the good news to the farthest frontiers.
How could Jesus’ coming be any more opportune than in such circumstances?
What, then, did the people and nations wait in connection with coming of Jesus?
In the incarnation of Christ, God has become real to people.
Life became real and meaningful because even at the cost of death itself men would go on living for God.
Because God had become more real to men in Jesus Christ, loneliness has been taken out of their faith. How sad that many still feel religion is a lonely business these days!
It is so much easier to be one of a jolly irreligious crowd than to be dubbed a killjoy.
But, with God’s Son in him, a person can stand against the world and overcome it.
Once more, the world is drawing near to the celebration of the birth of Christ in 2025. Will this Advent season be for us the dawn of a new day?
Narayan Mitra is the Pastor of Merritt Baptist Church.
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.
26, 1986
WINDMILL ATTRACTS CHINESE DELEGATION
An invitation by local resident Heinz Lange could very well find its way to China.
Lange’s revolutionary “wild onion” or windmill was demonstrated to a delegation from Qinghai, China, who were in Merritt over the weekend.
The group made the trip to B.C. in order to review alternative forms of technology at work here, including grassland reclamation technology and Lange’s wind-powered generator.
I n attendance to welcome the delegation were Mayor Bob Baird, mayor-elect Harry Kroeker and Lange, along with Fred Feistmann of IMW industries, who have negotiated a contract with the inventor.
CLUB MEETING REMINDER
Date:
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
CIVIC CENTER
Clearing the Snow
• CLEAR WALKWAYS within 24 hours (10 AM for businesses), as per the Good Neighbour Bylaw. This includes the Windrows left by the snowplow.
• HELP DRAINAGE: Shovel snow onto grass and ensure drains are clear.
• MOVE VEHICLES off roads to provide the snowplow room to work.
LOCAL LAKE NAMED
ONE OF CANADA’S TOP ICE FISHING SPOTS
ACC HEAT PUMP & GAS FITTING LTD.
HVAC
• Heat Pump, Wall Mounted Mini Splits
• Air Conditioning
• Dual Fuel System/Hybrid System
• Air Ducts & Sheet Metal
JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com
With the fresh waters of the BC Interior soon heading to freezing point, ice fishing season is ramping up once again.
For those in the Thompson-Nicola seeking out the big catch, look no further than Edith Lake on Long Lake Road just off Hwy. 5A, less than an hour from Merritt.
The 61-acre scenic spot has been named one of the 9 Best Ice Fishing Destinations in Canada in 2026 by FishingBooker, the world’s largest platform for booking fishing trips. The only B.C. lake to make the list, the annual ranking is based on species variety and winter catch potential, accessibility and on-site infrastructure, angler popularity and booking trends, local guide perspectives and broader winter tourism activity.
“Tucked just south of Kamloops, Edith Lake is a favourite for anglers looking for a quiet, scenic, and relaxed winter escape,” reads the listing. “Pine forests frame the shoreline, mountains reflect off the ice, and the fishing is steady and rewarding.”
Angling enthusiasts will find plenty of rainbow trout within the deeper waters of Edith Lake, the usual suspect for B.C. Interior ice fishing. Patient anglers closer to the shallows could also find a well-stocked population of eastern brook trout.
“The lake’s smaller size creates a calm, intimate feel perfect for families, beginners, and anyone looking to trade crowds for crisp air and postcard moments. Between bites, skaters glide across the surface, snowshoers explore nearby trails, and the afternoon sun paints the surrounding hills in gold.”
• Commercial Refrigeration
• Walk-in Cooler & Freezer
• Commercial Ventilation
• Exhaust Fan
Gas Fitting-Gas Permit & Inspection
• Furnace
• Fireplace
• Roof Top Unit
• Make-up Air Unit
Plumbing
• Kitchen, Dishwasher, Garburator
• Shower, Bathtub, Faucet
• Drainage
• Water Pump
• Tankless
• Gas Fired/Electric Hot Water Tank
• Combi, Boiler, Floor Heating
• Leaking Detection
• Washing Machine Installation/ Replacement
DEVELOPMENT OF A PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN
Application #: TMC-ROW AND FACILITIES IVMP-2026
Applicant: Trans Mountain Corporation (TMC), 7815 Shellmont Street, Burnaby BC V5A 4S9 Email: info@transmountain.com Toll-free info: 1.866.514.6700
In accordance with the British Columbia’s Pest Management Act and Regulations, TMC is required to develop a Pest Management Plan (PMP) (for TMC the PMP is referred to as the Integrated Vegetation Management Plan (IVMP)).
The IVMP manages problem vegetation, including control of noxious weeds and invasive plants within TMC’s rights-of-way, access roads to its pipeline systems and facilities. In British Columbia, TMC operates the Trans Mountain Pipeline transporting crude oil and refined products from Edmonton, AB to Burnaby, BC. Facilities include pump stations, valve stations, terminals, tank farms and office/maintenance facilities. All facilities are fenced, secure compounds not accessible to the general public. The pipelines are located below ground and in the proximity to the following communities in British Columbia: Valemount, Albreda, Blue River, Avola, Vavenby, Clearwater, Darfield, McLure, Heffley Creek, Kamloops, Merritt, Kingsvale, Hope, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Sumas, Langley, Surrey, Coquitlam and Burnaby.
These IVMPs have been prepared to replace the existing five-year IVMPs, which expire March 31, 2026 (Facilities) and on May 1, 2026 (ROW). The proposed duration of the IVMPs is from March 31, 2026 to March 31, 2031 (Facilities) and from May 1, 2026 to May 1, 2031 (ROW).
The vegetation management and weed control methods proposed for use include hand-pulling, mowing, trimming, pruning, selective slashing, girdling, geotextile fabric, retaining existing low or self-sustaining ground cover, seeding, fertilization where setbacks permit and tree/shrub plantings. The use of pesticides (herbicides) are intended within the geographic area to which the PMP (IVMP) applies. TMC conducts all work, including pest (herbicide) management, in strict adherence with all applicable Acts and regulations.
The active ingredient names and an example of trade names of the pesticides (herbicides) proposed for use under this plan include aminocyclopyrachlor (Navius VM), aminopyralid (Milestone), Aminopyralid / Metsulfuron methyl (Clearview), Aminopyralid / Metsulfuron-Methyl-Fluroxypyr (Sightline), Imazapyr (Arsenal Powerline), Dicamba (Banvel VM), chlorsulfuron (Telar), Clorosulfuron / aminocyclopyraclor (Truvist), clopyralid (Lontrel 360), dicamba (Vanquish), diflufenzopyr (Overdrive), diuron (Diurex 80 WDG), flumioxazin (Payload), fluroxypyr (Retain B), Fluroxypyr / 2,4D (OcTTain XL), glyphosate (Vantage XRT), glyphosate (Roundup), glyphosate (Roundup Transorb HC), indaziflam (Esplanade SC), MCPA (MCPA Amine 600), mecoprop-P (Mecoprop-P), metsulfuron methyl (Clearview), picloram (Grazon), picloram (Tordon 22K), picloram and 2,4-D (Tordon 101), pyroxasulfone (Torpedo), Pyroxsulam (Simplicity), triclopyr (Garlon XRT), 2,4-D (2,4-D Amine 700), esterified vegetable oil (Hasten adjuvant) and paraffinic oil and alkoxylated alcohol non-ionic surfactants (Gateway adjuvant). Application methods include backpack, power hose and nozzle, stem injection, wick/wipe-on applicator and boom sprayer.
A draft copy of the proposed IVMP and maps of the proposed treatment areas may be reviewed online at https://www.transmountain.com/vegetation-management. A person(s) wishing to contribute information about a proposed treatment site relevant to the development of the pest management plan may send copies of the information to the applicant at the address above (Trans Mountain Corporation, info@transmountain.com as well as the toll-free info line 1.866.514.6700) within 30 days of the publication of this notice.
PHOTO/OLSEN IMAGING
A trailer is seen on the ice at Edith Lake in January 2024.
LOWER NICOLA CHIEF AND COUNCIL RESPOND TO PROTEST
Lower Nicola Indian Band Chief and Council have responded to the prior shutdown of the nation’s band office.
Two weeks ago, the Lower Nicola Indian Band was shut down for three days by a group protesting the management of staff. The protest has ended. The termination of human services coordinator Bridget Labelle currently remains.
In the wake of events, Executive Director of LNIB Keri Reilander has also departed.
Chief and Council of LNIB addressed the events in a statement on Facebook on the afternoon of Tuesday, Nov. 18.
“Many of you have reached out because you care deeply about our community, our programs and the well-being of the people who work hard to support LNIB members. We hear you, and we want you to know that your concerns are not being ignored,” the statement reads.
The statement also said the band cannot discuss or provide comment on matters regarding individual staff members due to confidentiality procedures.
LNIB also said the protest against staff and shutdown of the office caused harm.
“Right now, some staff do not feel safe coming into work. When entrances are blocked, services shut down. When staff are targeted or named online, people feel intimidated and afraid.”
The band mentioned ways staff and community members can bring forward their concerns.
-LNIB employees can file good-faith complaints through workplace policies and procedures.
-Community members can request conversations with Council. We are willing to meet and talk, but we cannot do so while staff are being prevented from working or while tensions are escalating.
25 YEARS OF RESTORATIVE JUSTICE IN THE VALLEY
having issues,” he said.
The restorative justice program in Merritt is celebrating over 25 years of service.
Leaders of the program reflected on its origins as well as its growth over the years.
The restorative justice program is an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system that focuses on the healing of those involved as well as the application of a community-based approach to justice.
The program takes in offenders who are taking accountability for their actions. From there, focus is placed on healing both with the offender and giving a voice to the victim.
From there, both the offender and victim share their stories and plans for reconciliation with the restorative justice coordinator. After both parties come to an agreement everyone will gather in a restorative justice circle that allows everyone’s voice to be heard.
“It allows the chance for the accused to share their story. What led to the behaviour. All the time we see that remorse, the regret and that accountability all come together and it’s quite emotional for them. Then for the person who got harmed, it gives them a chance to find their voice in the justice process,” said Chris Stokes, restorative justice program coordinator at the Nicola Valley Community Justice Service Society.
Brian Holmes is the chair of the NVCJSS (as well as a council member for the Upper Nicola Band). He said the program was started to help a lot of Indigenous band members navigate the law system.
“It was (formed) from a need from the community to deal with all the members that were running into the system and
Holmes said restorative justice tackles systemic issues of the offenders brought to them. It serves five communities around the Nicola Valley, but the program is centralized in Merritt.
“(Restorative justice) provides a better process to work with individuals to help them through some of the issues that are causing them to be where they are.”
“Assistance really comes in handy when we’re starting to see repeat offenders. It’s still a bit of an issue trying to address the system and how it deals with our members of our community at-large.”
Holmes also said the process is centred around community, and making the client feel like the community really cares about them.
He said many clients who come into the restorative justice program are dealing with trauma. Holmes mentioned historical trauma as a common factor. He gave examples of some of those traumas, such as the injustices done to Indigenous Canadians such as the residential school system or the Indian Act. Holmes said those experiences may have shaped some people.
“We’ve been able to support them on a more local basis, rather than have RCMP address them and deal with them that way.”
While the program is funded as an Indigenous justice program, the program is open to anyone.
Stokes said community support is integral to the success of the program.
“Making sure that I know the right people, the good people, the healthy people to send our participants to for help (is key),” he said.
“As well as to understand the services available in Merritt, making sure that
they’re connected to the right people for the support that they need.”
Stokes said that through the restorative justice system, clients can be connected to many other services.
“(It’s) to try to address that whole social justice issue, which will in turn hopefully stop them offending again in the future because the social aspects are met in a better way.”
One such partner that is integral to operations is the RCMP. Stokes said the restorative justice program has seen an increase in referrals in the past few years. He attributes some of this success to rapport built with the RCMP and trust built through other communities and services.
The restorative justice program also works closely with other programs at NVCJSS, such as the family justice support program.
Stokes said the program has expanded over the last two or three years. He said NVCJSS has received funding for a family mediation program, which offers a restorative justice approach to family law issues.
He said he’s continuing to secure community partners and that some organizations are reaching out to them for support.
On how to support the program, Holmes said people can help by understanding
what it does and what it offers. He said many people aren’t aware of the service, and the more that know about it, the more people they can help.
Others in B.C. have recognized the work NVCJSS has done.
“Nicola Valley Restorative Justice provides culturally relevant services in using a community-based justice model and more recently, civil and family mediation. The partnerships they have established and continue to grow with the Indigenous communities they serve, and with the local RCMP, are something to be noted and to be very proud of. We congratulate the Nicola Valley Restorative Justice Program on serving for over 25 years,” said the B.C. regional program manager for the Indigenous Justice Program within the Department of Justice Canada.
“BC Corrections is proud to partner with the Nicola Valley Restorative Justice Program. For more than 25 years, their team has fostered healing, accountability and community-led solutions creating lasting change that strengthens both individuals and the wider community. Their work, grounded in Indigenous and restorative practices, is a model of collaboration we are honoured to support,” said the Indigenous Programs and Relationships branch of BC Corrections.
PHOTOS/NVCJSS
Top: NVCJSS Restorative Justice Program Coordinator Chris Stokes (left) and Merritt RCMP Detachment Commander Josh Roda. Bottom: NVCJSS was recognized for a quarter century in the Nicola Valley.
CALL FOR HELP DURING NON-PROFIT RELOCATION
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
A staple service in the Nicola Valley for over three decades is reaching out in its time of need.
Nicola Family Therapy, having provided counselling services and programs since 1993 and resided in their office space at Merritt’s city hall for the past 20 years, is on the move to a new location.
“We are so grateful that during the past 20 years, the City of Merritt highly valued the service we provided for the community and allowed us to lease for rates that were lower than market value,” said Executive Director Sheri Bishop in an open letter to supporters. “However, with growing staffing numbers, the City of Merritt has made the decision to not renew our lease after December 31, 2025 and provided notice to us this past April.”
The registered charitable organization has since secured a new location on Quilchena Avenue, though like any major move, it comes at a major financial cost – even more so for a non-profit.
“With a building space secured and the need to be out of our current space by the end of the year, we are feeling the pressure to secure the funds needed to renovate the new space to be able to offer safe, secure and confidential counselling services for all those entering our doors,” added Bishop.
HOW TO HELP
This is where the community is able to step in. Nicola Family Therapy proudly boasts that only 3.75 per cent of clients are required to pay out-of-pocket, with even those rates bing significantly lower than those of private practices.
With a fundraising effort in full steam heading towards the new year, the organization is hoping for companies and individuals to sponsor and aid the renovations and relocation to continue providing the same level of support.
MORE CHILD CARE FOR HEALTH CARE WORKERS
JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com
More opportunities for child care services are now available for Merritt health care workers.
The Royal Inland Hospital Foundation has teamed up with Merritt Youth and Family Resource Society (MYFRS) to provide spaces for Interior Health staff and physicians at the new Family Place Early Learning Centre, which opened on Quilchena Ave. in August.
“MYFRS understands that safe, reliable and consistent child care gives health care staff peace of mind and supports health care services,” said Karen Cooper, Executive Director of Clinical Operations with Thompson Cariboo Rural. “We are grateful for the Society’s support and for the support of the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation who contributed to the project.
The partnership is a breath of fresh air during a period of staffing turmoil at Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre, as short staffing has led to over a dozen temporary closures. The most recent was a pair of overnight closures in mid-October, though the previous most recent instance was back in March.
“We will continue to actively work with our partners to take a community approach such as this to support recruitment and retention of physicians and staff,” said Cooper.
The Family Place offers 76 spaces for families and their children in Merritt, including 24 spaces for infant-toddlers, 36 for school-age care and 16 for multi-age child care, some of which will be made available for those with Interior Health.
MYFRS Executive Director Lenora Fletcher said that families have said “nothing but positive things” about the centre since its summer opening.
“I like to think outside the box to help as many people as I can using connections and partnerships to help others... h ealth care professionals can’t be at their best if they’re worried about who’s caring for their children. When doctors, nurses and staff know their children are safe and cared for, they can focus fully on the patients who need them.”
Families looking to register or find out more information can contact the Family Place Early Learning Centre at 250-302-3444.
PHOTOS/RIH FOUNDATION
Top left: The Family Place offers 76 spaces for children in Merritt. Bottom left: The inside of a playroom at the Family Place Early Learning Centre. Right: MYFRS Executive Director Lenora Fletcher (left) with an Interior Health employee parent.
50/50 DRAW REACHES THOUSANDS
CALL FOR HELP: continued from pg. 13
“Every dollar donated, or in-kind donation would be greatly appreciated and would help us in our efforts to move through this transition with as little impact on the essential services we provide the community.”
A 50/50 raffle is also currently ongoing to raise funds, until Dec. 12. With a total currently sitting at over $2,000, single tickets are just $10, with options as well for three, 10, and 30-ticket packs. Tickets as well as more information can be found at nicolafamilytherapy.rafflenexus.com.
Despite a staff of just three, Nicola Family Therapy is still able to offer individual, couples, family and group counselling. A four-person board of directors also give their time voluntarily. Typically, the small-yet-dedicated staff support over 400 people a year, providing over 3,800 hours of direct counselling services in a number of different areas. The Stopping the Violence program offers counselling services to women who have experienced violence and abuse in their lives, and the PEACE Program offers counselling to children and youth who have witnessed or experienced violence in their homes.
In the last three years, they have also established a free men’s mental health counselling program funded through donations, sponsorship from the Nicola Valley Hospital Auxiliary, and civil forfeiture grants.
As a registered charity, tax receipts are available for all donations over $20. Nicola Family Therapy will also be recognizing supporters in an issue of the Merritt Herald, as well as on a wall in the new office as “a daily reminder of the kindness that enables us to continue our work.”
The top two donors at the $10,000 level or higher will receive special recognition through the naming of two significant spaces, the Group Therapy/Boardroom as well as the Children’s Therapy Play Room, including a personalized plaque featuring the donor’s name and/or logo.
RULES & REGULATIONS
1. With a minimum purchase of $20 you will receive one entry form from the store clerk, up to 20 entry forms ($400) per purchase. The entry form must have a MH stamp or the business stamp, or entry will be invalid.
2. Be sure to bring a pen so you can fill in the entry then, or you can bring your entry back at a later date.
3. Boxes will be provided at the stores to drop off your entry.
4. All prizes awarded in Gift Certificates. 1st Place: $800 2nd Place: $450, 3rd Place: $200. WINNERS WILL BE DRAWN FROM ALL COMPLETED ENTRY FORMS RECEIVED BY DEC. 20, 2025 AT NOON. Prizes must be accepted as awarded, no cash value.
5. There is no limit to the total number of entries.
6. The winners must be 19 years of age or older.
7. Double entries if you purchase a food bank donation from one of the local participating businesses.
8. Final draw to be made December 22, 2025.
Shopping local benefits both the community and the shopper. Here’s why it matters:
• Supports Local Economy: Local businesses reinvest in the community, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.
• Builds Community: Shopping local fosters connections and strengthens the community’s identity.
• Reduces Environmental Impact: Local businesses often source products nearby, cutting down on transportation and packaging waste.
• Ensures Unique Offerings: Local shops offer one-of-akind products and personalized service.
• Keeps the Community Vibrant: Thriving local businesses contribute to a bustling, lively town.
When you donate a non-perishable food item at any participating Passport to Christmas business, you’ll receive double stamps—and you’ll be making a real difference for local families right here in the Nicola Valley.
The Nicola Valley & District Food Bank is always in need of essentials, not only everyday food items but also things that help fill their Christmas hampers—items that add comfort, dignity, and joy during what can be a difficult time for many.
Your generosity goes far beyond a single item. By donating, you:
• Help ensure vulnerable individuals and families have access to nutritious meals.
• Support the Food Bank in preparing holiday hampers that bring warmth and hope.
• Strengthen our community by standing together and caring for our neighbours.
• Reduce food insecurity during a season when the need is often the greatest.
A simple donation—whether it’s a can of soup, a bag of pasta, baby items, or holiday treats—goes directly to those who need it most. Every act of kindness adds up, and together, we can make the holidays brighter for everyone in our community.
Give a little, gain a lot, and let’s make this Christmas season one of generosity and goodwill in the Nicola Valley.
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)
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)
PICTURES WITH SANTA Merritt Civic Center
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
Matinee at noon (doors open at 11 am)
Evening at 5 pm (doors open at 4 pm)
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
SPIRIT SQUARE LIGHTS UP FOR THE HOLIDAYS
LIGHTS TOUR COMING
JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com
Merrittonians are once again invited to get into the ho-ho-holiday spirit this December by catching a ride on the Merritt Transit Holiday Lights Tour.
Running from Dec. 15-17, tickets are available for $5 and can be purchased before noon on the day of the tour by calling 250-378-4080. Children on laps
can ride and check out the festive displays for free.
Once you have your tickets, Merritt Transit will depart from city hall at 6p.m. on each day of the tour, with the trip lasting around two hours throughout town.
All proceeds from the Lights Tour will go to the Nicola Valley Food Bank.
PHOTO/HERALD FILES
The annual tour brings locals to all the best places to see festive displays around the holidays.
PHOTO/KASS HAGGSTROM
The annual community Christmas tree light up and sing-a-long saw Spirit Square packed with cheer on Nov. 24.
GOFUNDME FOR VICTIM OF CRASH NORTH OF MERRITT
JOSH DAWSON Castanet
A Kamloops man who died in a car crash on Highway 5 north of Merritt earlier this month has been identified.
In a social media post, PIT Stop Kamloops said Dr. Chubueze Nwokocha volunteered with the program and was the president of the Igbo Amaka Society. He died in a collision while travelling from Kamloops to Merritt on the morning of Monday, Nov. 10.
Police said officers were called to the scene of the crash on Highway 5 north of Merritt, where a Honda Accord rear-ended a semi-truck in the slow lane.
Firefighters extracted a single occupant from the car and, despite life-saving efforts, he was declared deceased at the scene.
“Dr. Chi came to Canada in 2021 with hope and determination to build a better life for his family,” Pit Stop Kamloops said.
“He was a gentle, humble, and compassionate man who dedicated himself to
helping vulnerable people through his work and through community service.”
Nwokocha leaves behind a wife and two young children.
A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up by Axis Family Resources ltd. to support Nwokocha’s loved ones and help with immediate expenses.
Axis said Nwokocha was a valued member of its team, who was hardworking, brought a positive spirit and was a lways willing to help others.
“His kindness and good spirit and dedication touched everyone who had the chance to work with him,” the GoFundMe reads.
A second GoFundMe setup by Gift Anugwa is also seeking donations to support his family, who are facing unexpected financial burdens.
“He worked tirelessly, supporting vulnerable people through his job, always showing kindness, humility, leadership, and dedication,” the fundraiser reads.
Ben van der Gracht
250-374-3344 ext 244 bvandergracht@morellichertkow.com
Jacob M. Brown
250-374-3344 ext 264 jbrown@morellichertkow.com
K’EN T’EM OPEN HOUSE
WHEN?
DECEMBER 3
WHERE?
SISKA INDIAN BAND TIME?
4PM TO 7pm INTERACT
NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS
GOT SPORTS?
Contact Jake or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
CENTS PICK UP FOUR POINTS ON WEEKEND ROAD TRIP
reporter@merrittherald.com
The Merritt Centennials found their stride on the road, taking the win in two-out-of-three games during a weekend roadtrip of B.C.’s southeast.
Friday, Nov. 21 - Kimberley Dynamiters, 5 - Merritt Centennials, 6
In what might be the most dramatic game of the season, the Merritt Centennials defeated the Eddie Division leaders, the Kimberley Dynamite 6-5 in a back and forth game. Fast offence from the Centennials meant the puck eventually found its way to the stick of forward Carter Kelly, who scored his first goal of the season just 30 seconds into the game.
Momentum would take a turn after the goal. Merritt’s Ryker Swanson was called for a two-minute penalty at the 2:05 mark. The Dynamiters built their offence, eventually scoring 34 seconds into the power play with a goal from Luke Davies.
Just after the halfway mark of the first frame, Noah Lawless found his scoring touch again for the 17th time this season, putting the Cents up by one goal.
The middle frame saw even more action.
At the 1:19 mark of the second, Kimberley’s Nolan Kelly scored his 16th goal of the season.
A few minutes later, Kimberley’s Callan Valstar was called for hooking, giving the Cents an extra man. Merritt was sure to take the advantage. A goal from Callum MacLean put the Centennials back in the lead at 3-2.
After the goal, the Cents’ Gairen Bona was given 2-minutes for holding. Feeling the advantage shift to them, Kimberley took the game to Merritt, scoring with a goal from Nate Tillmans to equalize.
Five minutes later, at the 12:18 mark, Merritt was given another penalty for crosschecking by Gairen Bona. The penalty led to a Kimberley goal from Jackson Murphy less than 15 seconds later.
The Dynamiters were now leading the game at 4-3, with the momentum swinging to their side.
In the third frame, Merritt’s Troy Horn was sure to swing it back. The forward scored his sixth goal of the season on a solo goal in the second minute of play.
The shifting nature of the game would continue just minutes later. Kimberley’s Kelly would score again at the 6:46 mark to put the Dynamiters up again at 5-4.
In the final minute of play, the Cents went for broke, taking goalie Sam Saskiw off. The gamble paid off this time.
At 19:55 Brayden Thurlow notched his second goal of the game, tying it at 5-5. The game went into overtime before reaching a shootout, where Steven Foster netted the game winner for the Cents.
Saturday, Nov. 22 - Fernie Ghostrider, 2 - Merritt Centennials, 1
After the dramatics of the previous night’s game, the Cents were off to Fernie to face the Ghostriders.
After a scoreless first, Fernie’s Jaden Piper scored at the 3:55 mark of the middle frame. It took Merritt over 12 minutes to answer back. Defenceman Reed Belcourt scored his first goal of his career at 16:51 to equalize.
Eleven seconds before the end of the second period, Ben Skarsen scored his 13th goal this season for the Ghostriders to reclaim the lead for Fernie.
Merritt could not equalize again, with a final score of 2-1 Fernie.
Sunday, Nov. 23 - Creston Valley Thunder Cats, 1 - Merritt Centennials, 3
A long road trip ended in the Centennials favour as they outclassed the Creston Valley Thunder Cats 3-1.
The game opened fast with a goal at 0:16 from Noah Lawless with an assist from Troy Horn.
The game went some time without a goal until Graham Willey would score for the Thunder Cats at 13:25.
Right after, Sidney Brill was given a two-minute penalty for slashing. Steven Foster took the advantage and turned it into a goal for Merritt at 15:47.
The second period saw no action. Merritt held onto their 2-1 lead going into the third. Early in the third, Travis Langlois scored his third goal of the season with a solo goal, putting the Centennials up at 3-1 and putting the game to rest.
The Centennials will return to their home arena on Wednesday, Nov. 26 as they play the Revelstoke Grizzlies once again.
NEXT HOME GAMES
Dec 20 vs Kelowna 6pm Jan 2 vs Sicamous 7pm Jan 9 vs Spokane 7pm
Upcoming Events
Santa Claus Parade Friday, November 28 at 7pm
Shop with the Centennials Dec 14: 2-5 pm at the Elks
BINGO every Thursday at the Elks
BIG Thank Yous!
Murray GM, Boston Pizza Home Hardware, Alpha Design, Etched Jus Jan, Corbett Lake Lodge, John Marshall, Kim Leclair, Gary & Leanne Dixon, Gord Collier!
BONSPIEL CHAMPS TAKE HOME THE TURKEY
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com
The bird was the word at the Merritt Curling Club on Nov. 22, when the rink was packed for the annual sold-out Turkeyspiel.
16 teams took to the ice to vie for the coveted birds, with the winning team of Elyse Scholtens, Don Embury, Lorne Tisdel and Eric Doll taking home the turkeys.
2nd place (chickens): Doug Stone,
3rd place (eggs):
The Draw to the Button contest raised $320 for BC Children’s Hospital, won by Lorna Latremouille.
Curlers can now look forward to the annual men’s and women’s bonspiels on Jan. 9, with the mixed bonspiel set for Feb. 20.
Wendy Stone, Lynn Newhouse, Ian Gordon
Grant Klassen, Vicki Klassen, Carla Sowpal, Byron Robbie
Lorna Latremouille
MSS VOLLEYS TO TIER 1 CHAMPIONSHIP BONSPIEL CONTINUED
Photos/Ty Lim
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
Merritt Secondary School freshmen made a big splash in the volleyball world, taking home the West Zone Tier 1 Championship for the first time in 30 years.
Led by coach Gian Cavaliere, the MSS Grade 8 girls volleyball team were given the honour of hosting the West Zone playoffs after coming first during league play.
Through good teamwork, the team was able to secure the championship banner for the first time since 1995, according to Cavaliere.
Games were played on Thursday, Nov. 20.
“A huge thank you to these ladies for giving me the opportunity to work with them. I couldn’t be prouder of who they’ve become - on and off the court!” Cavaliere wrote in a Facebook post after the win.
SIDEWALKS NEEDED AROUND SCHOOL
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
Parents in Lower Nicola are advocating for sidewalks to be installed in their community.
Community members feel the area is unsafe for pedestrians, especially children, who have to walk to their school or parks next to traffic.
One NicolaSimilkameen school district (SD58) school is located in the Lower Nicola community, that being Nicola Canford Elementary along Hwy. 8. It has 119 students currently enrolled according to SD58 statistics.
Brittany Nyirfa is a parent of a child enrolled in Nicola Canford Elementary. She said her child, like many others, has to make the walk down Aberdeen Rd. to get to school. Aberdeen Rd. remains the only main route to
get from the residential district to the school and the CanCo gas station.
Aberdeen Rd. has no sidewalks, making parents say the road is unsafe for children going to Nicola Canford Elementary or Smith Pioneer Park.
“The concern is Aberdeen road itself,” Nyirfa said.
“There’s no sidewalk there and there’s heavy gravel trucks, rock trucks and things like that that use this road constantly.”
“I see kids walking up and down all the time on their way to
the CanCo petrol station, especially in the summertime or after school… I myself have walked to and from the CanCo and I’ve had someone drive very uncomfortably close to me and my children.”
A petition launched Tuesday, Nov. 18 advocating for a sidewalk on Aberdeen Rd. As of Tuesday, Nov. 25, it has garnered 420 signatures.
“With no sidewalk, people are forced to walk along the gravel shoulder while trucks and vehicles pass within feet of them,” the
petition reads. “It only takes one moment - one distracted driver, one wide truck, one icy morning - for a tragedy to happen.”
The petition also states the issue has been long overdue.
The goal is to request the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and infrastructure to conduct a full pedestrian safety assessment as well as prioritize the building of a sidewalk along Aberdeen Rd.
It reads that the PAC of Nicola Canford also wants to work with the
school and the TNRD to implement a safe walking route for children.
Nyirfa said she spoke with Herb Graham, director of electoral area N of the TNRD who said the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure had no intention of adding a sidewalk to the road when it was first paved.
Nyirfa said she will be getting letters of support from Graham and David Laird, director of TNRD area M, as well as the principal of Nicola Canford Elementary.
“Lower Nicola may be a small community, but the safety of our children and families matters. Our kids deserve a safe route to school and to the park. Our community deserves better than risking our lives just to walk down the street,” the petition reads.
The petition can be found by going to www.change.org and searching ‘Lower Nicola’.
■ Approved mini-storage
■ On-siterentals
■ Secured
■ SaleofNew&Used storagecontainers
1750HillStreet ■ Phone:250-315-3000
THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU
Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911
Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464
Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899
Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919
Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.
St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-319-8823
Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.
Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735
Service Time every Sunday - 10 am
Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268
Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502
Service Times: Sunday 10 am
Motion Church Merritt Sundays 10 am
Coquihalla Middle School (2975 Clapperton Ave) www.wearemotionchurch.ca/merritt
CLASSIFIEDS
DEADLINE: MONDAY at noon. for that week’s paper.
www.merritthospice.org
Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
&DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY
There is much talk these days about ‘closure’. Saying good-bye to someone we love, even after they have died, doesn’t require that we put an end to the relationship.
www.merritthospice.org
Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
Judith “Judy” Fischer
March 8, 1950 - October 25, 2025
Judith “Judy” Fischer of Merritt, B.C., passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops. She was predeceased by her spouse, Siegfried; her parents, Mike and June Garay; and her sister, Pat.
Judy will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Christine (Breck); her sons, Darryl and Tim; along with extended family and friends. Born in Trail B.C., she spent most of her adult life in Merritt, working in a variety of jobs and was known for her warm smile and sense of humor. Judy also took great pride in volunteering with the Merritt Lions Club and assisting others with their taxes. She will be fondly remembered for her kindness, generous spirit, and love of animals.
Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Nicola Valley Health Centre and Royal Inland Hospital, with special appreciation to Katrina (ICU/RN).
A private service will be held by the family. Online condolences may be shared at DrakeCremation.com
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.
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.
VALUE ADDED
LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT
PRODUCTION WORKERS (FT/PT)
• Wages: starting $20 to $28 (depends on experience & attendance)
• Steady day shift work
• Students welcome to apply
• No experience necessary
• Will train
CERTIFIED MILLWRIGHTS REQUIRED
CARPENTERS REQUIRED WITH EXPERIENCE
LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS
Excellent medical & dental plan PLEASE
1. Popular wine __ Spumante
5. Greatly impressed
11. __ and that 12. Uttered with passion
16. Boats
17. Veteran actor Harris
18. Casserole with game
19. Reprehensible acts
1. The central area in a building
2. Religion of Japan
3. Leggings
4. Officially distributes
5. Arabian Sea seaport
6. Spanish doctors
7. It cools your house
8. Currency of Poland
9. Slowly moves into
10. Days (Spanish)
13. Unit of volume
14. Emit
24. They precede C
25. Says under one’s breath
26. Taxis
27. It transfers genetic info
28. NFL great Randy
29. Where college students sleep
30. Major European river
31. Taco condiment
15. With two replaceable hydrogens
20. Title for a man
21. Equally
22. Scarlett’s home
23. One-time tech titan
27. Subway dwellers
29. One-tenth of a liter
30. Central European river
31. Distress signal
32. Expression of sympathy
33. -frutti
34. Polish city
38. Astronomy unit
39. Khoikhoin peoples
40. Bears QB Williams
43. Scrambled, fried, boiled
44. Price indicators
45. One-time world power
49. When you hope to get somewhere
33. The bill in a restaurant
34. Football equipment
35. Dance music
36. Russian river
37. Cosmetics giant
Mary __
38. Gym class
40. Automobiles
41. Roman honorific
42. Losses in sports
44. Skin tone in summer
45. Distant planet
46. Critical humor
50. Farm building
51. Choose carefully
53. Magnum was one
54. One who combines
56. Nursemaids
58. Partner to Pa
59. Notable river
60. Officially honors
63. Colorless compound
64. A fancy chair
65. Email function
47. Illegally obtained
48. Go back over
50. Home appliance brand
51. Unit of radioactivity
52. Home of the Flyers
54. Short official note
55. Emit coherent radiation
57. Anno Domini (in the year of Our Lord)
61. Most common noble gas (abbr.)
62. Toward
