Feb 16 - 2023

Aspen Planers employees and local contractors gathered on Friday, February 10 in protest of unapproved log cutting permits. —

The Earth Rangers visited four elementary schools in the Nicola Valley to teach kids about wildlife and conservation. —

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Aspen Planers employees protest in Merritt

Opinion --------------------- 6-7

Sports -------------------18-19

Classifieds -----------21-22

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Employees of Aspen Planers in Merritt, along with local forestry contractors, gathered at the Ministry of Forests’ Cascades Natural Resource District office on Airport Road, protesting what they see as a lack of action by the provincial government on the approval of local cutting permits. Aspen Planers’ Merritt mill is currently open, processing logs imported from northern Vancouver Island, but its owners say that it will shut down soon if new permits aren’t issued.

Organizers of the protest told the Herald that they hope to see action by government on the file, and an approved cutting permit for Aspen Planers in the near future. The mill was closed for over a month starting December 2022, and is only reopened due to an external supply of logs. Bryan Halford, chairman of Aspen Planer’s local United Steelworkers union chapter, said morale at the mill has been low amidst uncertainty about its

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future, and the future of the industry as a whole.

“We’re here today because the government is refusing to sign our permits, some of them are four months old, and we have some that are over a year old,” said Halford.

“Everybody is stressed out, it’s not fun being at work right now. It’s tough. They’re all looking for other jobs, we all have to have somewhere to go. It’s a small town, we’re going to have to leave town if that’s the case. We know if the mill goes down, well, what’s the City going to come to?”

British Columbia’s Forest & Range Practices Act, which regulates the cutting of trees on government-owned Crown land, sets out the process for obtaining permits and permissions in regards to provincial forestry practices. The provincial government also sets an Allowable Annual Cut (AAC) for areas across the province, which determines the number of metres cubed of timber may be cut in the region per year. The AAC for Merritt’s forestry

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area is 1,200,000 m³, and those looking to harvest from that set amount must apply for cutting permits before falling trees.

Ministry of Forests (MOF) staff recently told the Herald that the latest numbers show over 84 percent of permits in the Cascades Forestry District were issued within 40 days, and that mountain pine beetle damage and the 2021 wildfires made the Merritt area’s annual allowable cut shrink by 300,000 m³ in recent years. Aspen claims the process to obtain a cutting permit is currently stalled by the Ministry’s negotiations with local First Nations around environmental stewardship. The Herald has reached out to local First Nations and First Nations owned forestry companies for comment on their possible concerns.

“While there hasn’t been any clarity provided by the Ministry of Forests, we are led to believe that cutting permit approvals are stalled due to reconciliation negotiations between various Nicola Valley

See 'PERMITS' Page 8

WEATHER

WEATHER

Feb. 16: Cloudy 6°/-4°C

Feb. 17: Cloudy 4°/-6°C

Feb. 18: 40% Snow 5°/-2°C

Feb. 19: 50% Wet Snow 6°/-2°C

Feb. 20: 60% Wet Snow 6°/-1°C

Feb. 21: 60% Snow 3°/-3°C

merrittherald.com

WOMEN’S FAIR

The Nicola Valley Women’s Fair: Women Inspiring Women will take place on March 18, at the Civic Centre to honour, celebrate and educate the women of the Nicola Valley.

Search ‘FAIR’

SLO-PITCH SEASON

The Merritt Mixed Slo-Pitch League recently opened registration for its upcoming season. The league is inviting new players and teams to come join and play once a week throughout the spring and summer time.

Search ‘SLO-PITCH’

Protestors gather at the Ministry of Forests’ Merritt office on Airport Road to demonstrate their frustration with a lack of government action on the forestry file. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

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Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The City of Merritt recently unveiled the first of 31 new manufactured homes purchased as part of flood relief efforts looking to house those who remain without a permanent place to call home, and one Merritt family was the first to see their new home during the event at Diamondvale Trailer Park.

The City’s Transitional Evacuee Manufactured Home Program (TEMHP) was established with a portion of the $24,255,000 funding the City received by way of B.C.’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs. The program offers subsidized or below-market, tem-

porary, transitional, rental accommodation for flood affected individuals and families for a period of 4 to 24 months. The first of the manufactured homes began arriving early last month, and all homes are set to be in place in March. One Merritt family will move in in the coming weeks after losing their home in November of 2021.

“We lost everything in the flood. Our 4-bedroom home, our furniture, and an affordable place to rent,” says new TEMHP program participant Valerie Stacey.

“After the flood, rents skyrocketed. We were forced to live in a 5th wheel without water or sewer for about 7

months. Our only other option was to squeeze our family of four into a small one-bedroom rental.”

Stacey and her family will soon occupy a three bedroom trailer at the park, but two, three, and four bedroom units are available as part of the program. Phase one of the program, completed in December 2022, offered subsidized rents set at 70% of market value, plus additional financial support for flood affected families provided through several community partners. The City said phase two of the program adds “much needed housing stock” to the flood-impacted community and provides selected residents, who can apply

through Royal LePage Property Management, with below-market rents.

The family of four, including Stacey, her partner, and two sons, met with Mayor Mike Goetz on February 10 to view their new home, and talk to local media and City of Merritt officials. The family was presented with a welcome basket and the keys to their new home.

Stacey previously told City officials that the new place to call home puts an end to a lot of uncertainty for herself and her family.

“While the flood and the evacuation were very traumatic, the relentless uncertainty of getting a home was really, really difficult,” noted Stacey.

See ‘HOUSING’ Page 10

on the Rez

New Transitional Housing Program resident Valerie Stacey poses with her family in front of their new home in Diamondvale Mobile Home Park. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Behaving accordingly

Thankfully, the COVID-19 pandemic has calmed enough for the Merritt Secondary School (MSS) to be able to host assemblies and other schoolwide events to promote our culture and community.

Unfortunately certain younger students are not being the best audience members throughout these kinds of events. Once they get told by a teacher to pay attention, people seem to respond fine and continue respectfully watching the presentation.

Younger students are ignorant as to how to properly be audience members. When I think about it, it does make sense in a way. Throughout late elementary grades, students are supposed to start sitting through presentations and have tons of different opportunities to practice this before heading into the high school where it is expected to be a quiet and patient audience member.

Learning and practicing these life-skills can be difficult and time consuming, but I believe it is crucial to the success for most members of MSS. Conversly, putting on assemblies requires time, effort, and sometimes money away from the already overworked staff of MSS. Although it may be difficult, I strongly agree that putting on these presentations and talking about proper audience etiquette will be important in sculpting the future for the students of MSS. It may be difficult, but practicing listening and patience skills for people who were never taught it due to COVID will in the end prove to help the students and the school alike.

MAYA STARRS MSS

LETTERS to the editor Kudos to our young musical talents

Editor,

I want to thank the high school music students for the most enjoyable evening of music. The large Grade 7 bands played their tunes remarkably well. The very small Grade 8 band performed well, demonstrating real musicality. The vocal jazz students performed well. The senior band and the jazz band gave an awesome performance. Mr Kerridge you are to be congratulated on encouraging these students. It was great to see such an enthusiastic audience. Well done!

ALBAS: ‘Investing in healthcare through the CHT’

reality, the federal government typically sets out what the increase will be to the CHT.

This week Canada’s premiers are in Ottawa for what has often been reported as “negotiations” with Prime Minister Trudeau for a new agreement on the Canada Health Transfer.

The “Canada Health Transfer” (CHT) transfers a portion of the federal taxes you send to Ottawa back to provinces and territories to help cover the costs of providing healthcare.

I use the term ‘negotiations’ loosely because, in

Provinces have little choice but to accept whatever amount of money the federal government establishes as reasonable.

The CHT is estimated to be $45.2 Billion for the 2022/23 fiscal year.

Prime Minister Trudeau announced that over the next ten years, the increase to the CHT will be $196.1 billion, which represents $46.2 billion in new funding on top of what was previously budgeted.

There is also $25 billion set aside for bilateral deals and some other “top-ups” in specific areas.

Overall, the

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new funding agreement will lead to an increase of 5% in the CHT over the next five years.

The agreement also includes some “strings” like data sharing between the provinces and the federal government and upholding the Canada Health Act to protect Canadians’ “access to health care based on need and not ability to pay.”

Recently the Province of Ontario announced intentions to increase the use of private clinics to help clear surgical waitlists.

In a media interview with the Toronto Star, the plan by the Province of Ontario was called “innovative” by PM Trudeau.

As a result of the PM’s praise for increased involvement of private healthcare, many, including some Liberal MPs, have expressed concern and, in some cases, condemnation of the PM’s comments.

The leader of the NDP has accused Prime Minister Trudeau of placing Canada’s universal health care system under threat.

Earlier this week, Global News reported on an Ipsos poll that suggested 59% of adults surveyed expressed support for the private delivery of publicly funded health services, adding further fuel to this discussion.

The CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs said: “... in the 30 years

he has studied public opinion in Canada, he has never seen such a shift in support toward privatization.”

Getting back to the CHT announcement, as is often the case, the premiers unanimously expressed disappointment noting that the increase in funding was insufficient to address the severe challenges facing provincial healthcare systems.

Here in BC, as reported by the Vancouver Sun, our share of this increased funding over the next ten years works out to $600 million a year.

The BC provincial budget for healthcare spending was $23.8 billion in 2021-2022.

The provinces were asking for an annual increase to the CHT of $28 Billion.

What PM Trudeau announced this

week is, on average, less than $5 billion in new funding a year.

My question this week:

Do you think PM Trudeau should have further increased the Canada Health Transfer, or do you view the announced increase as reasonable?

I can be reached by email at Dan.Albas@ parl.gc.ca or call me toll-free at 1-800-665-8711.

From the Herald archives: February, 2010

STUDENTS INTERN AT FIRE STATION

A work experience program running from September to July is giving the Merritt Fire Department five new firefighters. “It’s been great. They all want to be here and they’re all giving a great effort,” said training officer Sky McKeown. For the 2009/10 semester, five fire school graduates are living by the station, working weekdays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor.

Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address.

Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

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DAN ALBAS VIEW FROM THE HILL

Photo/Herald File

2125 QUILCHENA AVENUE

Local loggers air out grievances with unapproved permits

From Page 3

First Nation bands and the provincial government. It is understandably frustrating for laidoff workers who cannot make a living while these issues are being addressed,” said Bruce Rose, executive vice president of AP Group in a recent statement to the Herald.

“We continue to welcome conversations about improving the permitting and forestry management processes to ensure that reconciliation and conservation objectives are being met, while the hardworking people who earn their livelihoods can remain employed. It is very simple: no cutting permits means no

logging, no jobs, and no forestryrelated economic activity in and around the Nicola Valley.”

The Ministry of Forests did not immediately respond to a request for an interview on the topic, but sent a statement acknowledging the “challenging times” forestry workers, families, and the

community as a whole is experiencing.

“Government is working with Aspen Planers on solutions to concerns around cutting permits and with local government and First Nations,” said the Ministry to the Herald in a statement.

“We are also engaging the local communities in an

POLICE FILES

Prolific offenders charged

approach that is expected to lead to collaborative decisions for the region.”

The protestors gathered at the Ministry of Forests office with signs, trucks, hardhats and all to request immediate government action, and said they don’t plan on stopping their gatherings until permits are signed.

Marius Auer

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt RCMP recently assisted in a series of investigations into crimes that occurred in Merritt and a number of other southern B.C. municipalities, which has led to 33 charges being filed against two individuals.

The individuals charged are Justin Colby and Raven Graham, who are accused of being involved in a series of break and enters, thefts from vehicles, and credit card fraud that took place between May 2nd and June 17th, 2022. Along with a number of specialized RCMP and police factions, several RCMP detachments aided the investigation, including Creston, Merritt, Coquitlam and Surrey. The investigation was led by the Sea to Sky RCMP’s General Investigation Section.

“This crime spree affected many people in our community,” said Sgt. Jeff Shore with the Sea to Sky RCMP.

“We are pleased to see that our hard work in putting all the pieces together has resulted in numerous charges against two prolific property crime offenders.”

The 33 charges laid against Colby and Graham stem from 26 separate police files, and include Dangerous Driving, Flight from Peace Officer, Fraud, Mischief, Break and Enter, Possession of Stolen Property, Theft under $5000, and Theft of Motor Vehicle.

The accused are both expected in court in the coming weeks seeking a judicial interim release, or bail, as they await possible trial on their slew of charges.

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KINDERGARTEN 2023 STUDENT REGISTRATION

The Board of Education of School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen)

Kindergar ten establishes a strong foundation for lifelong learning , as teachers provide dynamic, play-based oppor tunities to help each child grow and learn. Our child-centered programs de velop a sense of well-being and belonging and offer oppor tunities for exploring , creative play, de veloping language and literacy while focusing on social responsibility and cultural diversity

Kindergar ten provides our young learners with an enriched learning experience at their own unique de velopmental le vel. We look forward to working with each Kindergar ten child’s family as we welcome you to your child’s ne w school community

Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overvie w of our online registration process.

REGISTRATION SCHEDULE

Monday to Friday: March 6 to 17, 2023

For September, 2023:

To register, a child must be 5 years of age on, or before, December 31, 2023.

Parents should register their child at the neighbourhood school.

Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overvie w of our online registration process.

If you are unable to register online, please contact your neighbourhood school.

When registering online you will need your child’s Bir th Cer tificate, immunization record, Care Card and proof of address when registering

Parents interested in a Kindergar ten distance education program for their child, can contact the South Central Interior Distance Education School at 250-378-4245

Parents wishing to enrol their child in the French Immersion Program are required to register at Collettville Elementary

If you have any questions, please contact your neighbourhood school: DIAMOND VALE

Two individuals are facing 33 charges in relation to a series of crimes committed in communities across southern B.C., including the City of Merritt. Photo/RCMP

Housing challenges post-flooding

“We just couldn’t afford anything on the market. When the Red Cross told us about the City’s Transitional Housing Program, I was so excited. I am really grateful for the financial and mental health support from the Red Cross.”

Participants in the TEMHP may opt to buy-out their manufactured home at any time during the 24-month lease period at an adjusted rate. The homes will be sold on the open market at the end of the contract term ending December 2024 if they haven’t been sold to their occupants, which the City said will further help to alleviate the pressure on Merritt’s stretched housing market. Phase two applications are ongoing, and will allow the community to apply for housing at 85 percent of market value, although no further financial

support is offered as they are to phase one applicants.

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz sees the program as a step in the right direction for Merritt’s recovery, and called the initiative a “groundbreaking” achievement for the future of flood recovery. While he said the City still has a long way to go in its recovery efforts, programs like the TEMHP bring peace of mind.

“This is the first time any program like this has ever been created,” commented Goetz.

“The City of Merritt is creating a ground-breaking new transitional housing program that will surely set the benchmark in future floodrecovery planning. We express our appreciation to the BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs for providing the financial aid to make this floodrecovery housing program possible.”

B.C.’s Minister of Municipal Affairs, Anne Kang,

was invited to the unveiling of the new manufactured homes, but was unable to attend the event. She provided a statement highlighting the collaboration between municipal and provincial levels of government to get the new project across the finish line.

“The Province and the City of Merritt have been working closely since then to find ways to support community members. These new homes provide a

boost to Merritt’s housing stock, helping families and residents move back into their community,” said Kang in a statement. For more information on the Transitional Evacuee Manufactured Home Program, contact the City of Merritt at housing@merritt.ca. Applications for phase two of the program should be submitted to Royal LePage Property Management at proplepage@gmail. com.

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz presents a home warming gift to TEMHP program participant Valerie Stayce. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Silver Mountain Contracting, pegged by the City of Meritt to install the 31 new modular homes that make up the TEMHP, work to install a four bedroom unit. Marius Auer/Herald

STOP Bullying

ANTI-BULLYING Campaign 2023 PINK SHIRT DAY in recognition of

Parents can exercise caution with youth-based social apps

by the age of 11. In addition, 84 percent of teenagers have their own phones. Most youth grew up with the internet, and they have embraced a variety of apps, particularly social media apps, that connect them to the world.

music videos. Users are urged to express their creativity, and special effects can be added. While minimum age for use is 13, there is no real way to validate users’ ages so anyone can download the app.

Internet access is no longer limited to desktop or laptop computers. World Advertising Research Center, using data from mobile trade body GSMA, says almost three-quarters of internet users, or roughly 3.7 billion people, will access the internet

exclusively via smartphones by 2025.

Young people are one of the largest demographics utilizing smartphones today. A Common Sense Media survey says just over half of children in the United States now own a smartphone

Social media certainly can be an asset, but it has inherent risks, such as making kids easy targets for identity theft or sexual predators. Other apps expose users to explicit, unfiltered content. Parents must educate themselves about the popular apps their tweens and teens may be using and weigh their pros and cons. Here’s a list of apps every parent should know in 2020.a

• TikTok: This app (formerly Musical.ly) is designed for creating and sharing short videos, notably

Parents say the videos are plagued by inappropriate language and content, including pornographic material. Also, some have warned that when sexual predators are identified, the app is slow to flag and remove these users.

• Kik: This is a cross-platform messaging app that enables users to chat anonymously without the need for phone service. Users also can share most digital media and video chat with one another. Forbes reports that Kik has had issues with child exploitation and sexual harassment.

• Tellonym: The web resource FamilyEducation says this messenger app allows kids to ask and answer questions anonymously, purporting to be the “most honest place on the internet.” Cyber bullying and violent threats are common, according to watchdog groups.

• MeetMe: This social app advertises its ability to have users meet new people through messages, video calls and live streams. With no option to set privacy limitations, users can freely view other profiles within the vicinity. Also, reaching out to others and viewing profiles generates in-app reward incentives.

• Bigo Live: Common Sense Media says this app is like YouTube and Twitch in that

Bigo Live lets users stream live video of themselves that others can see and comment on in real time. People also can send and receive “beans,” which are virtual gifts that cost real money. The warning is that Bigo has a lot of mature content and predatory commentary.

Yolo: Yolo is an easy add-on for Snapchat, which also is a popular app among children. Yolo lets users ask anonymous questions and receive feedback. The anonymity of commentary can be a recipe for bullying, trolling and hurt feelings.

Parents can safeguard their children by monitoring internet access and understanding popular apps used by today’s youth.

Cyber safety is important for every grade

People rely on the internet every day. In recent months, reliance on digital technology was pushed even further as social distancing measures had the world going online for school and work and to maintain relationships with friends and family.

A 2018 report from Pew Research Center indicated that nearly 25 percent of young adults in America reported being online almost constantly. Common Sense Media says teens spend an average of nine hours a day online, compared to roughly six hours for those between the ages eight and 12 and 50 minutes for kids younger than eight.

Students must exercise caution when spending time online. Connectivity can be empowering, but it also puts students at risk from others and even their own, sometimes irresponsible behaviors. Staying safe online should remain a priority for students who must spend more time on the internet and using digital education tools. These are some tips for maintaining cyber safety.

• Exercise caution when sharing information like your name, address, phone number, and other personal data online. Check with a trusted parent or teacher before sharing private data.

• Report any online activity that makes you feel uncomfortable, scared or confused, whether it is directed at you or a classmate.

• Think carefully before you post comments online. Data remains online indefinitely, and your words and actions today can greatly affect your future.

• Respect others online by refraining from demeaning or bullying comments.

• Do not try to get around firewalls and blocked websites set up by school administrators. These limitations are there for your protection.

• Stick to school-sanctioned assignments and internet browsing when using schoolissued devices. Administrators may have the right to monitor student activity without students’ knowledge and you can easily get yourself in trouble.

• It is easy to hide or fake one’s identity on the internet, so never take someone you meet or speak with online at face value. Never meet up with someone you do not know or only met online.

• Talk to your parents or educators about extortion and ransomware that tries to trick you into providing payment in some shape or form to prevent a perpetrator from releasing private information about you, advises the Readiness and Emergency for Schools Technical Assistance Center.

Various steps can be taken to promote cyber safety among students, parents and administrators.

Picture courtesy of Lower Nicola Band School student Ryan Prosper

Lower Nicola Band School student Neeva

Understanding and addressing youth violence

Youth-related violence is a problem that plagues communities across the country.

Youth violence encompasses everything from physical fighting to bullying to sexual or physical assault.

The World Health Organization states that there are certain risk factors that elevate the likelihood of engaging in or being victimized by youth violence. Individuals who are exposed early to alcohol, drugs and tobacco and who may come from homes where crime is prevalent may be more inclined to engage in violent behaviors. Low commitment to school and conduct or behavioral disorders also can increase the chances of being involved in youth violence. Children who can be violent also may come from homes that have inconsistent supervision and disciplinary practices, or a low level of attachment between parents and children.

Preventing youth violence depends on a number of factors. Multifaceted strategies that address factors at the individual, family and community levels may be needed, offers the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Promoting supportive family environments and early childhood intervention offering quality education early in life, and strengthening youth skills all may assist in keeping violent tendencies from surfacing. Connections to the community and support systems can be beneficial as well. Interventions to lessen the effects of exposure to violence and treatments to correct problematic behaviors also are advised.

Some children can benefit from juvenile awareness programs, sometimes referred to as “scared straight” programs. These include prison tours and exposure to criminals to help shed light on the consequences of delinquent

or violent behavior. Other adolescents and teens may find value from boot camp-style disciplinary programs that redirect energy in positive ways.

Youth violence can be addressed via various strategies aiming to keep young people, their schools and their communities safe.

Picture courtesy of Lower Nicola Band School

Earth Rangers visit Merritt Walking with purpose

Classrooms were completely empty at the Nicola Canford Elementary this past Tuesday afternoon as students, teachers, and staff all assembled at the school’s gymnasium to participate in Earth Rangers’ outreach presentation.

On Tuesday, February 14, Earth Rangers began their four school tour in the Nicola Valley. The non-profit organization aims to spread awareness about wildlife conservation to the youth and invite them to become stewards of the environment.

“Basically, we go around schools to inspire kids to care about climate change and wildlife protection in their area,” Earth Rangers Presenter Braden Wood explained. “We want to show them that they could even make a difference in their own backyards.”

Earth Rangers informs the kids about what they are doing on the conservation front, as well as giving the kids the opportunity to contribute through the Earth Rangers app.

“On the Earth Rangers app, they can do activities like the ones in our presentation,” he added. “They can plant pollinator gardens for local fauna and even make little toad houses for their backyard.”

“For those kids who really have passion for ecology and looking after our animals and our planet, it’s kind of a neat way of getting involved,” said Principal Burt Bergmann. “It allows them to help out at whatever level. You can do sponsorships or you can just perform little tasks and track yourself that way.”

About 150 students, from kindergarten to Grade 7, converged in the Nicola Canford gymnasium to witness the presentation, learn, and see the animals. Last

year, Earth Rangers also made a stop at the local elementary but in a more restricted capacity.

“They came to us last year virtually,” said Bergmann. “They did a pretty good job when it came to the presentation and activities but the experience is really elevated when kids interact in person, and see the animals up close.”

The presentation delves deeper into climate change and habitat loss as it pertains to wildlife conservation. Interactive video presentations as well as games were done to keep the kids wholly engaged.

The main attraction and undisputed stars of the show were definitely the animals. Earth Rangers brought along with them four different animals:

• Sonic the Barn Owl

• Millie the Three-Banded Armadillo

• Delta the Savannah Monitor

• Chavez the Crimson Rumped Toucanet

“Our animals help us to promote and spark joy,” said Co-Presenter Michela Fusco. “Our animals inspire kids in wanting to care for the environment.”

The shows are made possible through Earth Rangers’ partnership with Teck Resources Ltd. The group’s trip began last September, with plans on concluding their tour at the end of May.

Their stops for Merritt include four elementary schools, namely Nicola Canford Elementary, Diamondvale Elementary, Bench Elementary, and Merritt Central Elementary.

Earth Rangers completed the Nicola Valley leg of their trip on Wednesday, February 15. They are set to visit Kamloops elementary school students next. For more information about Earth Rangers and their initiatives, please visit www.earthrangers.com.

The annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraiser is coming back to Merritt, with the Nicola Valley Food Bank Society once again hosting the charity walk and fundraiser on February 25. With nine days remaining to register as a walker, the local food bank has raised $1400 of its $20,000 goal, with 34 walkers across 12 teams

set to join in. The annual event raises funds for organizations such as the food bank that assist individuals and families experiencing hunger, homelessness, and hurt. Those who register can choose to walk, raise funds for the cause, or both. For more information, visit cnoy.org/ location/nicolavalley.

Presenters Michela Fusco and Braden Wood introducing their feathered friend Chavez to the students of Nicola Canford elementary. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Last year’s Coldest Night of the Year Walk took place on a 4 degree Saturday evening. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Izaiah Reyes

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Local credit union offers ‘savings’ to post-secondary students

Dollar Bursary is straightforward and designed to reduce barriers in accessing post secondary funding, according to Interior Savings. With an approval rate near 75 percent, both customers and non-customers 17-24 years in age are encouraged to apply, but an Interior Savings account is needed to receive funding. The credit union’s top executive said the organization sees the bursary program as a sound investment.

“The cost of living is taking a toll on many in our community,” said Brian Harris, Interior Savings’ CEO.

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Interior Savings, a B.C. based credit union with locations in Merritt and surrounding communities, is promoting the tenth year of its Million Dollar Bursary Program, with half of the 1000 available $1000 bursaries still left unclaimed. The credit union is highlighting the high cost of post secondary education in B.C., coupled with rapid inflation, hoping their offering of $1000 will make a difference in the lives of local students. The application for the Million

“Especially students, trying to keep up with the rising cost of tuition, rent, food and transportation. Our Million Dollar Bursary Program is not just an investment in the community, but in our next generation of leaders.”

The deadline for application is February 28, 2023, at which point adjudication will begin. Successful applicants will have until October 1, 2024 to use their bursary. Preference will be given to those graduating high school in the current academic year, but the bank said applications are mainly approved in the order they are received.

Interior Savings said in a press release that more than half of the bursaries had gone unclaimed with just

weeks to go to the application deadline. With inflation in Canada at 6.8 percent last year, and no end to rising costs currently in sight, many students are seeking financial relief while continuing their education.

“With approximately half of the 1000 bursaries still available, anyone with students in their lives – in the Okanagan, Thompson Nicola and Prince George region – is encouraged to help spread the word, ensuring the bursaries are put to good use in the community,” added

the release.

For more information on the Million Dollar Bursary Program, visit www. interiorsavings.com, or call the Merritt branch at 250-378-5181. Interior Savings Credit Union is located at 1959 Voght Street.

NICOLA VALLEY ASSOCIATION FOR COMMUNITY LIVING

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & ELECTION OF OFFICERS

February 23, 2023 at 6:30 pm

Ska-lu-la Workshop

1775 Coldwater Avenue

New Members Welcome

The Interior Savings Credit Union on Voght Street in downtown Merritt is offering a $1000 bursary to a number of local students. Marius Auer/Herald

SD#58 commits to French Immersion amidst uncertainty

10.5. Some parents attending the meeting voiced their concerns about a large disparity in the difficulty of assignments and learning between the Grade 7 and 8 levels. The district said it continues to recruit new French teachers with ongoing job posting, a potential part-time co-teaching strategy, and by accessing regional recruitment support.

“I know that recruitment of French teachers has always been a challenge, and I think we’ve been pretty good at growing our own,” noted Trustee John Chenoweth during discussion on the topic.

program, Trustees and staff seemed receptive to the idea. Parents attending were frustrated by the district’s lack of communication, with some adding that the chain of trust between parents and their elected school board officials had been broken.

Although at a reduced level of instruction for some students, School District 58 will continue its French Immersion Program, with district staff committing to find new and innovative ways to support is continuity.

Amid concerns about the program’s sustainability and quality, the School District 58 Board of Education discussed its French Immersion program and addressed parents’ concerns during their recent regular meeting. District staff apologized for the lack of communication surrounding a recent reduction in the percentage of French instruction students in the program at Merritt Secondary School (MSS) were receiving, and overall concerns by students and parents about program areas that lacked academic support.

Speaking at the Board of Education’s February 8 meeting, top SD58 brass took responsibility for the missing communication on what the district identified as a lack of staffing and a difficulty recruiting new French teachers.

“There is a temporary vacancy at Merritt Secondary School, which has resulted in a reduction of French to 25 percent,” said Superintendent Stephen McNiven, addressing parents’ concerns at the board meeting.

“We have a two teacher model there that helps us keep that recommended 50 percent or higher in place. We had a temporary vacancy take place late April or May, but I think the position was actually filled with a non-French Immersion teacher May 12 or May 16. That resulted in a reduction of the French from 50 percent to 25 percent, which is below the recommendation, whoever, it is meeting the funding requirements, which is helpful from a sustainability program point of view, but not where we want to be.”

École Élémentaire Collettville, a French immersion school on Lindley Creek Road in Merritt, along with Merritt Secondary school offer local students the option for a K-12 education with a proficiency in the French language. Those who graduate through

this program receive not only a B.C. Dogwood Diploma, but also a diploma de fin d’études secondaire en ColombieBritannique for completing their French language learning as well. Graduates in the Class of 2023 are set to graduate with their “Double Dogwood,” but those in 2024 could be one Grade 11 level class short.

School District 58 has low transition numbers for students going from Collettville into MSS’ French Immersion program. Numbers presented by McNiven during the meeting say that an average class size of 20 students at Collettville translates to roughly 7.7 graduates from the French program at MSS. The average class size for French students at MSS currently sits around

“Previously, we have had former SD58 grads go off and get their teaching degree and come back to teach, and I think we even have one or two there now, which is very nice to see.”

Trustees discussed the hiring of more teachers and support staff, and overall voiced their support for the French Immersion Program. When one parent suggested the implementation of a French Advisory Committee composed of students, teachers, and parents in the

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is to incorporate tex t for the Comprehensive

The purpose of this

and CD3 Zones of the Cit y When these bylaws were adopted in 2022 , the tex t was inadver tently not incorporated into the main zoning bylaw. The lands that are subjec t to this are the lands already zoned CD2 and CD3 at and adjacent to the former Visitor Centre by E xit 286, identified on the enclosed map The proposed bylaw is consistent with the Official Communit y Plan, due to Amending Bylaws No. 2310, 2021, and 2327, 2021 A s a result , no Public Hearing is proposed.

The proposed bylaw may be inspec ted at Cit y Hall during ordinar y business hours ( Tuesday-Friday, 8:0 0am to midday & 1:15pm to 5:45pm), and any time online at w w w merritt ca

Parents and students gathered at the School District 58 Board of Education’s regular meeting on February 8, seeking answers amidst uncertainty in the French Immersion program. Photo/ Herald File

That’s a 10-4, rubber ducky: Cents lose big in weekend split

with Jaxson Murray scoring his 17th goal of the season. Just one minute later, the Spruce Kings would tie it up to 1-1 with their own goal by defenseman Charlie Banquier slipping one past Sullivan. The remainder of the first period would remain scoreless, despite a Sprue Kings man advantage following a holding call against the Cents’ Erik Sollied.

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt Centennials find themselves coming off of another split weekend, experiencing both triumph and major defeat against Prince George’s Spruce Kings during two away games. Coming out of the weekend, the Cents hold a 11–25–3–2 record and the bottom spot in the league’s Interior division, 10 points away from the division’s bottom playoff spot.

The first night of Cents action in Prince George saw #35, Connor Sullivan, starting in goal for Merritt. The first period was strong defensively for both teams, especially the Spruce Kings, who limited the visiting Centennials to three shots on goal for the entire period. One of these shots would however find the back of the net to make it 1-0 for the Cents,

The second period saw little scoring action, but a number of penalties and power plays that went uncapitalized. The Cents saw four penalties, with two more being handed out to Spruce Kings players. The lone goal of the period was scored by Centennials forward Jackson Krill with just 30 seconds left in the frame, making it a 2-1 game for the Cents.

The third period went similarly, with strong defense and fewer scoring opportunities for both teams. Linden Makow for the Spruce Kings would find a scoring opportunity late in minute 18, finding the twine behind Sullivan and tying the game 2-2 just in time for the final buzzer to sound. The game was sent to overtime, with a 5 minute three-on-three overtime frame seeming to end just as quickly as it started. Diego Johnson put the Cents in the lead with a goal at the 1:35 mark, bringing the game to an end with a 3-2 score in favour of the Centennials. Connor Sullivan saved 38/40 in the overtime win.

Fresh off of the previous night’s win, the Cents headed back to Kopar for round two on Saturday night. Johnny Hicks started in goal over Connor Sullivan, who

had helped the team to victory the night before. The first period was off to a hot start, with two power plays within the first four minutes of play. The Spruce Kings were the only team to capitalize, putting themselves in a 1-0 lead early on thanks to a goal by John Herrington. Hicks left the ice just seven minutes into the first frame, injured and not to return for the rest of the game. Sullivan was back on the ice for the Cents. The next goal would come against Sullivan just a few minutes later, making it 2-0 nothing game by way of a Ty Gagno score. After a pair of roughing calls, the Spruce Kings would cement their lead during a period of four-on-four with a goal by Luca Primerano, making the game 3-0. Just over a minute later, now on a power play, the Centennials finally made themselves heard by Jaxson Murray finding the twine and scoring to make the game 3-1. The Cents would score one more time before the frame ended, with Jackson Krill scoring his 16th of the season, making the score a manageable 3-2.

The second period was the start of the end for the Centennials, with the Spruce Kings coming out of the gates swinging. Linden Makow, Jack Kurrle, and Jake Schneider of Prince Georga all scored by the 3:54 mark, making it a 6-2 game within the blink of an eye. The remainder of the period saw mostly defensive action, with one more goal scored by Michael Shara of the Cents at 16:02. The game was now 6-3, with the Cents scoring on their lone shot on goal (SOG) in the peri-

od, compared to Prince George’s 18 SOG. The third period only continued the Cents’ derailment at the hands of the Spruce Kings, with Linden Makow scoring his second goal of the night at the 5:14 mark. Jack Stockfish followed up with another point less than two minutes later, making it an 8-3 game. After a cross-checking penalty against the Cents’ Connor Farren, Ty Gagno scored his second of the night to make the score 9-3 for the Spruce Kings. After more defensive action, Jack Stockfish put the final nail in the Cents’ coffin with another goal, which boosted their scoring for the night to double digits at 10-3. The game ended with three calls, two for roughing and one for boarding, resulting in a four-on-three man advantage for the Cents. Captain Christian Lowe was able to find the back of the net just as the final buzzer sounded, cutting the deficit down to 10-4 for the final score. Hicks saved 5/6 in the losing effort before being injured, with Sullivan saving 40/49 during his time on the ice.

The Cents will hit the ice again on Saturday, February 18 against the leagueleading Penticton Vees. The Vees currently hold a record of 36–3–0–1 and have clinched their spot in this year’s BCHL playoffs. Puck drop is set for 7:00PM at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. The Cents then head to West Kelowna for a Monday afternoon road game against the Warriors. Puck drop is set for 2:30PM at Royal LePage Place on Monday, February 20th.

The Centennials were on the road this weekend, playing two straight games at the Spruce Kings’ Kopar Memorial Arena in Prince George. Photo/Merritt Centennials

Cents billet family recognized

A local hockey billet family is being recognized by the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) for their contributions to local hockey and for welcoming Cents players into their home. Each month, the BCHL recognizes families throughout the province as ‘Billet Families of the Month’, and Merritt family Peter Schmid and Shannon Dunn were among those selected for the month of January 2023.

The couple have billeted Cents players since 2013, welcoming in young

Joinus forthe cause

athletes from across North America as they play their season with Merritt’s own junior hockey club. They told the BCHL that having a place to call home is key for Centennials players who could find themselves far from home.

“It is important to us to be a billet family for the Centennials for many reasons,” said Dunn and Schmid in a statement.

“Obviously, Merritt is a small town and, outside of hockey, training and school, there aren’t too many ‘distractions’ for the boys, so having a

home to begin and end your day with becomes even more important.”

Currently, Dunn and Schmid are the billet family for Cents assistant captain Mark Thurston, a North Delta forward who has played with the team since the 2020-21 BCHL pod season. The couple considers their billeted players family members, and said they have cherished their time working with the team.

“We have loved these boys becoming part of our family, the neighborhood and community at large – everyone knows who the Cents are

and it is a great feeling being part of the team,” added the couple’s statement.

The Merritt Centennials’ website calls the importance of billet families in the community “immeasurable,” adding that without the generosity of families that welcome players in, the team would not be on ice.

For more information on the Merritt Centennials billet program, visit the team’s website at www. merrittcentennials. com/being-abillet, or contact Billet Coordinator Andrea Barnes at 250-378-0229.

The COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR comes to Merritt once again

The Nicola Valley Food Bank is encouraging Merrittonians to once again team up, fund raise, and walk in the third annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY).

This family-friendly, winterrific fundraising walk with a virtual option available that takes place on the evening of February 25, 2023. The event will be starting at the Food Bank, and teams can choose to walk either two or five kilometers to support people experiencing hunger, hurt, and homelessness in Merritt.

For more information, please visit https://cnoy.org/location/nicolavalley

D O N ’ T M I SS T H E S C OT T I ES TO U R N A M E N T O F H E A R TS .

Shannon Dunn and Peter Schmid have billeted Cents players for a decade, currently hosting North Delta native and Cents Assistant Captain Mark Thurston. Photo/BCHL

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Do you have a community story idea? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing reporter@merrittherald.com.

Still life art takes over local arts gallery for first show in 2023

scenes to creative takes on Still Life, a very popular genre of art through the ages. The local arts gallery filled their space with different paintings, from flowers to boots. The most popular type of subject from all the submissions are the fruits

‘Still Life: Beyond Fruit’ is the Nicola Valley Arts Gallery’s first show in 2023.

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Nicola Valley Community Arts Council’s (NVCAC) first show of 2023 takes its audience to a citrus infused journey.

Dubbed ‘Still Life: Beyond Fruit’, the show features still life, an artform which features inanimate objects, framed strategically for artists to express their creativity.

“We want to express the mood of the season for this show, when things are still and

contemplative, both inside and out,” said Gallery Curator

Jano Howarth in a press release.

“We are looking forward to a show from the common fruit

“We put up a call out to the community and I displayed everything that came in,” said Guest Curator Barbara Sayles. “I had a lot of response from the community. The quality of their work is really good and I’m really pleased with it.”

Sayles noted that there were about thirty art pieces that were

submitted for this show. As the acting Arts Council Guest Curator for this show, she is covering for Curator Jano Haworth who will return for the next showcase.

“It’s been really fun,” said Sayles about the experience. “I love arranging everything. Considering colors, using my creativity, and pairing items that

look great together was very enjoyable for me to do.”

The art pieces became available for viewing on February 2,

and they will be on display until mid March. The Nicola Valley Arts Gallery is located in downtown Merritt, along the corner of Voght

Street and Nicola Avenue, open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 noon to 4 p.m.

Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St • 250-378-2911

Ser vice Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre) Sunday ser vice 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

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

Ser vice Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p m

Sacred Hear t Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St • 250-378-3772

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

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Ser vice Time ever y Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC)

1755 Coldwater Ave. ( The Cadet Hall)

Sunday Ser vice Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church

1950 Max well St • 250-378-9502

Ser vice Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

The ‘Still Life’ showcase was guest curated by Barbara Sayles. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

The still life artform most popularly features fruit as its subject. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Izaiah Reyes/Herald

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In Loving Memory of MAURICE MATHIEU

Fond memories linger ever y day, Remembrance keep him near.

Love Isabel, Bernadette, Steve and family, Brad, Jacqui and family ❤ ❤

Peter Arduini

March 29, 1948 - Feb 16, 2015

Children also grieve Be honest with the child and give simple clear explanations consistent with the child’s level of

It is with very heavy hearts that we say goodbye to William (Sean) Smith, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on Tuesday, Januar 31st

Sean was loved fiercely and will be missed dearly by his wife, Natalie Smith, and his two young daughters, Charlotte and Ashleigh.

Sean was a warrior; he battled cancer for years and worked through the pain to be an active dad to his daughters and loving partner to his spouse. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his sense of humour, and his ability to see the good in everything and everyone

In addition to his wife and daughters, Sean is survived by his mother Lorraine (John), sister Sheri (Carlos), mother-in-law Nadia Wakefield (John, deceased), and brother-in-law Andrew (Meaghan) He was also a beloved uncle to Kyle, Emma, Alfie and Theo, cousin and friend to many. Sean was predeceased by his father, Bill; and his twin brother, Todd.

Sean passed his love of sports on to his daughters Hockey, baseball, softball, soccer, swimming, gymnastics, football - Sean took his girls to all and supported them in every sport they liked and were involved in.

Those who had the pleasure to know him will miss him greatly but remain grateful in how he touched their lives.

The family would like to thank the nurses and doctors in palliative care at Richmond General Hospital for their compassion and care

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 1 pm at Pacific Spirit United Church, 2195 West 45th Avenue, Vancouver, BC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honouring Sean’s memory by donating to Richmond Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit

https://www.richmondhospitalfoundation.com/ways-to-give/donate-today

Located at 2101 Quilchena Ave (Old Barber Shop)

Hours

Cyril Harold George

January 5, 1945 – February 6, 2023

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dad, Cyril George, a long-time resident of the Merritt BC area Cyril passed away on his own terms in hospital, with his family surround him

He was predeceased by his parents Harold George and Grace George (Hodgson), wife of 50 years Shirley and son Chris (Tammy)

He is survived by his daughters Jennifer (Ross) and Nicole (Scott), and grandchildren Teanna, Keagan and Gavin, and common law partner June

Born in 1945 in Kimberly BC, Cyril raised his young family in Surrey BC before retiring to the Merritt area 24 years ago He spent many years volunteering with Fish and Wildlife, BC Wildlife Federation, BC Fisheries, Rod & Gun Club as well as Merritt Senior Center

Cyril lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures, chatting with friends and family and spending time with his children and grandchildren Cyril had a passion for fishing and preserving the species in the Nicola Valley He prided himself on being a steward of the land. He spent hours tying fly’s and teaching others the “tricks of trade” He will be dearly missed by many

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Kidney Foundation in Cyril’s name https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Make-a-Gift/In-Memory-TributeDonations

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends at Cyril’s daughter; Nicole Morrison’s house (2075 Parker Drive, Merritt, BC) on Saturday May 6th, 2023 from 1pm-3pm

Cecilia (Cil) Leigh Street

September 25, 1963 – February 3, 2023

We are sad to announce the sudden passing of Cil Street on the early morning of February 3, 2023. A mom, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend to many She leaves behind her two daughters, Amanda and CelyRae (Gregory), “3rd daughter” Krystal, best friend Louise, her sisters Terri, Angie, and Marianne, brothers Jim and Rob, step-mother Cindy, sister-in-law Kim (Arnold), her dogs, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and so many she referred to as her “kids”.

Pre-deceased by her husband, Micheal (Mike) Street, mother Elaine Kelly, father Peter Connelly, and father and mother-in laws Gordon and Barbara (Tiny) Street.

Cil was an elementary school teacher for 20 years and education was her passion. She was a wealth of knowledge and loved a great conversation. She was always proud and supportive of her girls and their goals and would brag to anyone who would listen. The love of Cil’s life, Mike, left this earth 14 years ago. They are now together, singing along with his guitar, and dancing under the stars. Cil will be greatly missed by everyone whose lives she touched.

Memorial Service will be held at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) gymnasium on April 8, 2023 at 11AM. Reception to follow at the Elk’s Hall.

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Royal LePag e Merritt Real Estate Ser vices welcomes its new real estate ag ent!

Hi, I’m Steve, a new realtor in the Logan Lake area. My background sets me apart from other real estate agents. I’ve spent several years working in home remediation and restoration and have developed strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills. I grew up in Cherry Creek, just west of Kamloops and have lived in the Kamloops area all my life. My partner and I moved to Logan Lake t wo years ago. We love the area, the peacefulness, the natural beaut y, and the closeness of the communit y My passion is helping people find their dream home. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to downsize, I’m dedicated to finding the per fect home for you. With my attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and local expertise, I’m confident in my abilit y to help you achieve your real estate goals. Let’s work together to make your real estate dreams a realit y