January 12 - 2023

One of Merritt’s major economic powerhouses currently lies dormant, closed by a lack of timber supply and government approval of timber harvesting. Aspen Planers, owned by Surrey based AP Group, shut down their Merritt lumber mill at the beginning of December without an official reopening date. With no cutting permits having been issued since the beginning of the two Merritt sites’ closure, senior officials with AP Group say the closure could drag on to the end of January, or even longer.

The closure, caused by a lack of logs and cutting permits, is affecting roughly 150 employees of Aspen Planers in Merritt, along with a number of contractors and logging truck drivers that play an essential role in Aspen’s operations. AP Group officials told the Herald in December that they were frustrated with the “unnecessarily complicated and opaque” process for obtaining a cutting permit. This fact has not changed, with Aspen saying the key issue is still a lack of supply and provincially approved cutting permits.

“It’s kind of an indeterminate closure, simply because it’s coming back to the same thing,” said Bruce Rose, executive

vice president with AP Group.

“For whatever reason, the cutting permit approval process is clogged. Until there is something that changes and cutting permits are provided, we can’t run, it’s that simple.”

British Columbia’s Forest & Range Practices Act, which regulates the cutting of trees on 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 area is 1,200,000 m³, and those looking to harvest from that set amount must apply for cutting permits before falling trees.

“There’s not a lot of transparency to it, with what’s going on, in the Ministry of Forests as they’re working on the cutting permit. They don’t necessarily say, ‘this is where we’re at, this is when you can expect that,’ so it’s quite opaque,” added Rose.

Rose said that with no permits there can be no logging, which means no timber to process. Even applications for permits to harvest fire affected timber from the Lytton Creek Fire, a process in which Rose said time is of the essence for the sake of land rehabilitation and

reforestation, have not been approved. This lack of timber could lead to a lengthier curtailment of operations, with possible heavy impacts on local forestry related economic activity. Aspen Planers often moves harvested logs between milling operations, such as the Merritt mill, and veneer plants and plywood operations the company owns in Lillooet and Savona. Rose noted that the closure could impact a number of forestry operations in rural B.C. communities.

Vaagen Fibre Canada, a family owned milling operation in Midway, B.C, recently announced the indefinite closure of its mill. The closure affects 85 direct employees, and over 100 contractors. While the issue at Vaagen is related to the access of wood fibre at a market price. Merritt has seen its fair share of mill shutdowns throughout the years, including permanent shutdowns by Ardew Wood Products and Tolko Industries. The issue is especially noticeable in smaller towns that rely on industries such as forestry to feed their tax base, but Rose said its effects can be felt far and wide.

“This is not just a Merritt based issue, this is an issue in a lot of places around the province,” noted Rose.

“It creates so much uncertainty. Just like any business or organization, you try to have some aspects of certainty so you can do some planning, and you can convey and coordinate with your suppliers and contractors, and for that matter, with our customers in terms of providing our products. We’re left suspended in this aspect of a great degree of uncertainty, it’s our biggest challenge of the current time.”

The Herald reached out to the BC Forests District Office in Merritt, and was referred to the provincial governments media line, where a request has been left for an interview.

For now, local Aspen Planers employees will wait for their workplace to reopen, with no estimate on when that could be. A small number of Aspen workers accepted the company’s offer to relocate to other nearby operations, but most remain laid off and reliant on Employment Insurance (EI) and other benefits.

Jan. 12: 80% Wet Snow 4°/-3°C

Jan. 13: 70% Rain 6°/3°C

Jan. 14: 30% Rain 6°/2°C

Jan. 15: 60% Wet Snow 5°/0°C

Jan. 16: Cloudy 4°/-3°C

Jan. 17: 60% Snow 2°/-3°C

A new local service from Conayt Friendship Society is offering relief amid skyrocketing costs of living, in the form of groceries, winter clothing, and warm meals.

Although Team Canada’s U18 Women’s Hockey team member Gracie Graham, is registered Kelowna as her hometown, her roots are firmly planted in the Nicola Valley, beginning her playing career here.

Marius

Applying for a Home Owners Grant

to the program were approved.

For homeowners in northern or rural areas (outside Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley and Capital Regional districts), the basic grant amount is as much as $770 or as much as $1,045 for homeowners 65 or older, veterans and for people who have a disability or live with a relative who has a disability.

B.C. homeowners may also be eligible for B.C.’s Property Tax Deferment program. It is a low-interest program for homeowners who meet criteria, including:

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Home Owner Grant program invites B.C. homeowners to take advantage of their funding which in 2023 has a threshold set at $2.125 million.

Covering 92% of residential properties in B.C., the Home Owner Grant reduces the amount of property tax people pay for their principal residence.

In 2022, the program provided additional relief to almost half a million seniors throughout the province and approximately 13,000 persons with a disability. More than one million applications

• supporting a dependent child (Families with Children Program);

• 55 or older during the current year;

• a surviving spouse of any age; and

• a person with disabilities.

The best time to apply for the Home Owner Grant is in May after people have received both their BC Assessment notice and their municipal or rural property tax notice. Assessment roll and jurisdiction numbers are needed to apply. Homeowners can apply for the Home Owner Grant and Property Tax Deferment securely online. Please check www.gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant to learn more.

Merritt sees increase in property value

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

BC Assessment has released its new home and property values, with the average Merritt property owner seeing a 14 percent increase in the value of their property. With last year’s hot real estate market, along with the rising costs of construction and home ownership, property values across the province are reaching higher

levels.

Merritt and the Nicola Valley fall within BC Assessment’s Thompson Okanagan region, which also includes larger centres such as Kamloops and Kelowna, along with the surrounding smaller communities.

The Thompson Okanagan’s total assessments increased from

$203.7 billion in 2022 to $234.3 billion this year. BC Assessment said these values, along with individual home assessments, are calculated based on the value of the property the previous July.

“Home assessments for Kamloops and the surrounding area are rising about 10% to 15% for most communities whereas some communities will

be notably higher,” said Tracy Shymko, Thompson area assessor.

“It is important to think about your assessment as what you could have sold your home for around July 1 of the past year and not necessarily in today’s real estate market.”

The average value of a home in Merritt has risen 14 percent from $416,000 in 2022, to $475,000

Marius Auer

VIEWPOINT

Cancelled vacation plans

Cancelled vacation plans

Last week, stories broke about violence in Sinaloa, Mexico after the arrest of Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman’s son, Ovidio Guzmán López on January 5.

Canadian travelers are deeply impacted by the cartel’s demonstration. Airports were forced to shut down and Canadians in the affected areas of Mexico were advised to “limit movements and shelter in place” by the Government of Canada.

Last week, stories broke about violence in Sinaloa, Mexico after the arrest of Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman’s son, Ovidio Guzmán López on January 5. Canadian travelers are deeply impacted by the cartel’s demonstration. Airports were forced to shut down and Canadians in the affected areas of Mexico were advised to “limit movements and shelter in place” by the Government of Canada.

Imagery of the havoc caused by the cartel is truly heart breaking and I am hoping that no more people will be harmed by this trend of violence. There were videos of airplanes being shot down, burning vehicles burning in the middle of the road, and local police exchanging fire with the cartel.

Imagery of the havoc caused by the cartel is truly heart breaking and I am hoping that no more people will be harmed by this trend of violence. There were videos of airplanes being shot down, burning vehicles burning in the middle of the road, and local police exchanging fire with the cartel.

As someone who dreams of exploring the world, this story gave me a very sobering truth; we are not owed anything. The sense of entitlement, though not extreme, often creeps up to a person’s psyche. The idea of working hard, saving money, doing research and planning months ahead, distorts our vision of the outcome of any planned excursions. Doing all of these things may increase the likelihood of a successful trip, but it doesn’t guarantee it.

As someone who dreams of exploring the world, this story gave me a very sobering truth; we are not owed anything. The sense of entitlement, though not extreme, often creeps up to a person’s psyche. The idea of working hard, saving money, doing research and planning months ahead, distorts our vision of the outcome of any planned excursions. Doing all of these things may increase the likelihood of a successful trip, but it doesn’t guarantee it.

There are definitely a number of travelers disappointed by the news, and that is completely understandable. However, I am always taught to put things in perspective, and the way I see it, the crime wave cost travelers their vacation but it also cost some people’s lives.

There are definitely a number of travelers disappointed by the news, and that is completely understandable. However, I am always taught to put things in perspective, and the way I see it, the crime wave cost travelers their vacation but it also cost some people’s lives.

IZAIAH

OPINION

Grads raise funds through bottle drive

pulled together yet another successful fundraiser.

This past Saturday, Merritt Secondary School (MSS) grads and their families

The grad committee came up with the idea of a bottle drive during their December meeting and have been planning and advertising for it since then.

Before the actual bottle

drive, 2023 MSS graduate, Sydney Bennett and her mom, Kim Bennett, went above and beyond and had already taken time over winter break to rally up a significant donation from the Home Restaurant. Several others also donated

before the fundraiser was carried out.

As the day finally approached, the support from the community was endless. Around 11 a.m., the group was forced to stop collecting donations as mountains of bottles had started to form, and time

to sort was limited. They then took a break to enjoy some lunch but went straight back to sorting after a 15 minute break.

The team was able to sort through approximately 60% of the donations, which raised a whopping $2,500. The

remaining 40% of donations will be sorted by the bottle depot as part of the monthly dropoff program.

President of the 2023 grad committee, Tony Broman says, “We simply cannot express enough gratitude to our community or the volunteers

beforehand and those who helped on Drive Day. The Depot owner and single staff member deserve a huge thanks as well for their flexibility with the enormous amount of donations, and their good advice throughout our efforts.”

TEGART: ‘Improve health care in Merritt and area’

New B.C.

Premier David Eby has made a

few health care announcements since taking on his new role, but so far they haven’t translated into much relief for communities like Merritt where ER closures and reduced services have become far too common. This government seems to

forget that Merritt is located on the Coquihalla Highway. In addition to providing emergency medical services to area residents, our hospital also provides emergency response to the travelling public who are navigating one of the most dangerous high-

ways in B.C., with an estimated 400500 motor vehicle incidents during winter seasons. Unfortunately, the Nicola Valley has also seen an unprecedented number of gunrelated incidents over the past couple of months. While there have

thankfully been no injuries to date, emergency medical care could be required in the future, and we owe it to our police officers to ensure those services are available if and when they are needed.

Finally, the shortage of family doctors means

more and more people are seeking care in the emergency room, which is putting further pressure on the system.

It is absolutely vital that our local emergency department remains staffed and open.

I have sent a letter to Health Minister

Adrian Dix to raise these important issues, and welcome the opportunity to further discuss the impact of these closures. Our community — like all communities in B.C. — deserves timely access to medical care, close to home.

Auer: ‘Making life more special, with less money’

From the Herald archives: January, 1997

TORCH LIGHTS UP TRAILER

A Merritt man’s manufactured home was torched Friday. The trailer, located at nine El Dorado Trailer Park, caught fire while a roofing contractor was hot torching a roof of the trailer’s addition. Merritt Fire and Rescue responded to the trailer fire a minute befoe 2 p.m. Friday.

“It was fully involved on the roof structure on our arrival,” said Fire Chief Rich Finley.

LETTERS POLICY

When my kids were little and asked for this, that, and the other I used to tell them to wait for 30

days and if they still wanted it they could make a plan to buy it. I have to admit that this did not work out, it ended up being one of my (brilliant) parenting maneuvers that never really got a chance. For myself though, it’s a tried and true habit and has served me for a long time especially during the last year.

If you say yes to everything, go out to eat or for coffee all the time, or always stay on trend with clothes and shoes you’re constantly chasing gratification and you’re spending money. Doing something all the time makes it less special, even worse, it becomes routine. For you, this might not

be going out to eat or buying clothes, it can be something completely different. Is there anything in your life that used to be a special occasion or a special treat, but has developed into something you do all the time? I bet there is. What if those things became special again? Simple joys and special treats

during a time when we’re all feeling the pinch and the morale is sort of low. The secret to making this work is your mindset (really, your mindset is the secret to making anything work). Don’t think of it as depriving yourself, think of it as a conscious decision to appreciate certain things again. Don’t think of it as

having less buying power, think of it as having more power to savour special moments.

My Starbucks habit had gotten out of hand and I decided to take it from daily to weekly; now I’m enjoying my weekly coffee dates with my husband again, as a special treat. Where will you start?

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.

KERSTIN AUER

GURSIMAR NAGRA MSS

JACKIE TEGART

VIEW FROM LEGISLATURE

B.C. Assessment releases annual report

increased at a lower rate than the 14 percent average will likely see a decrease in property taxes. Those with property values that increased more than 14 percent will likely see an increase in taxes as well. While property taxes in the City of Merritt will likely increase due to a number of economic factors, those whose properties have been damaged by recent extreme weather events can contact BC Assessment regarding their property’s value.

Property values for 2023 have been released by BC Assessment, which assesses property values based on their worth on July 1 of the previous year. Photo/Unsplash

From Page 5

this year. A number of other communities saw significantly higher increases, and some lower. Clearwater saw a 29 percent increase, Clinton with a 41 percent increase, and Sun Peaks with a whopping 44 percent increase. No median assessments saw a decrease, but a number of communities stayed within a 10 percent increase.

BC Assessment added in a press release that while the increases could mean higher property taxes, this isn’t necessarily the case. Those whose property values

“If your property was impacted by the 2021 floods, mudslides, or wildfires, please take a few moments to contact us toll-free at 1-866-825-8322 during January once you receive your assessment notice,” noted Shymko.

“With your help, we can work together to make sure your property is valued correctly.”

Those concerned with their property value can contact BC Assessment and speak to an assessor. If unsatisfied after speaking to an assessor, a Notice of Complaint must be filed by January 31st, to be submitted for independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel. The Panel is independent of BC Assessment, appointed by the provincial government, and typically meets between February 1 and March 15 to hear formal complaints.

Property owners can contact BC Assessment by phone at 1-866-825-8322, or online at www.bcassessment.ca.

Celebrating ‘Literacy Week’

A number of local organizations are teaming up to bring a week of fun, excitement, and new literary skills to residents of the Nicola Valley. Literacy Merritt & Nicola Valley Society, along with the Interior Savings Credit Union and the Merritt Centennials, are bringing back their annual Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week this January.

The themed week, which is aimed at those of all ages, looks to raise awareness about the importance of reading

and engaging in literacy-related activities as a family. Organizers of the Unplug and Play event note that a variety of offerings will be available throughout a number of weeks in the Nicola Valley. Along with the sharpening of minds and fun to be had, Literacy Merritt said participants could reap other benefits from taking a break from one’s electronic devices.

“This week is a great opportunity to raise awareness about literacy programming in the community. Many people know about

the Bright Red Bookshelves, but there is so much more,” said Lia Moyes Larson, chair of Literacy Merritt & Nicola Valley Society.

“Families can check out mini literacy programming sessions at the Creative Playground, including Active Stories and Explore Art Literacy. We are especially pleased to see that Come Read With me sessions will be held in person this year. We know how valuable it is for parents to learn how to make reading fun for their children, and for

themselves.”

The literacy themed events will kick off on January 14, at the Merritt Centennials home game versus the West Kelowna Warriors. Those attending the game are encouraged to bring a new or gently used book as a donation to Literacy Merritt’s Bright Red Bookshelf program, which places bookshelves filled with free books in a number of locations throughout the Nicola Valley. Those unable to attend the game can donate books to Interior Savings on Voght Street from January 15

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

From Page 8

to 27.

Next up on the literacy lineup are a series of Come Read With Me events, aimed at the parents and caregivers of grade one aged children. Attendees will learn strategies to support literacy at home, and receive free materials to support their child’s learning. In addition to the daytime sessions held with students at each local elementary school, an evening session will be held at the Merritt Civic Centre on Wednesday, January 25 from 6:30 to 8PM. Also at the Merritt Civic Centre, a free of charge Creative

Playground event will be held on January 27 from 5:00 to 7:30PM, featuring dance, crafts, games, and literacy based activities. Those participating in the events are grateful for the collaboration and partnerships between organizations.

“This has been an annual partnership that we’ve had with Literacy Merritt,” said Courtney Christy, marketing manager with the Merritt Centennials.

“We’re super grateful, and our team is also involved in the schools every Thursday morning with Literacy Merritt as well. We look to enhance that partnership, and give people at the game the opportunity to explore what they offer.”

Through the action packed week of

literacy based fun, Literacy Merritt looks to advance their purpose of identifying gaps in community literacy, linking literacy based services together, and working with community partners to fill any gaps identified. The non-profit organization offers free books on over 40 Bright Red Bookshelves in the community to support essential literacy skills. They also plan family based events, technical literacy workshops for seniors, and facilitate oneon-one tutoring for students.

For more information on the Literacy Merritt & Nicola Valley Society, or to register for the evening Come Read With Me session, visit www.literacymerritt. com.

A

Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week takes place from January 23 to 27. Photo/Herald File

Staff changes in SD58

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A new year brings along new changes, and 2023 is no exception to that rule for School District 58, who made changes to their leadership teams at a number of Merritt schools. Merritt Central School and South Central Interior Distance Education School (SCIDES) both saw changes to their leadership team, with new principals taking over administrative duties at the schools.

In a letter to parents and families, SD58 announced that Dan Duncan of Merritt Central Elementary school was transferring to SCIDES to take on the role of principal there, with Natasha Omori moving up in Central’s ranks from vice principal to acting principal. The changes come not long after a switch up in leadership at Merritt Secondary School in late 2022, which saw principal Leroy Slanzi replaced by former vice principal Adriane Mouland after leaving the district for the principal position at Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) School. SD58 officials called the new changes exciting.

“Mr. Duncan is excited about this new opportunity and looks forward to working with SCIDES families, students, and staff; learning more about his new role; and blending his previous experience into the online learning environment,” said SD58 Superintendent Stephen McNiven in a letter sent to students and their families.

“Mr. Duncan has served in our District as principal of both Diamond Vale Elementary and Merritt Central Elementary. He also brings 23 years of experience at the secondary level includ-

ing adult education and career coordination.”

SCIDES has operated as a distance learning school in the Nicola Valley for decades, becoming one of the province’s first correspondence schools, which initially offered lessons and teaching via mail and other mediums before moving to an online format. After a recent announcement by the provincial government, SCIDES will be one of only 17 schools able to offer students programming regardless of their location in the province. Duncan will lead the school following principal Karen Goetz’s retirement on January 1, 2023.

Over at Merritt Central, students will see a familiar face in the principal’s office as former vice principal Natasha Omori takes over as acting principal. Omori has decades of experience in both elementary education and secondary student support services, with the district lauding her willingness to step into the new role upon Duncan’s departure.

“Ms. Omori has 23 years of teaching experience, including at Merritt Central Elementary, as well as in student support services at Merritt Secondary School,” added McNiven in his letter.

“Most recently, Ms. Omori has been vice principal at Merritt Central Elementary, which will serve her well in this new role. Her willingness to step up and support Merritt Central Elementary is greatly appreciated. We are confident that Ms. Omori’s experience, work ethic, and commitment to students will benefit the school and the community.”

For more information on the recent changes, along with resources for students and families, visit the School District 58 website at www.sd58.bc.ca.

Marius Auer

School District 58 has announced changes to its leadership teams in two local schools, including one elementary and Merritt’s distance education school. Photo/Herald File

Bass Coast releases annual compilation album

Law.

“We wanted to create a compilation that featured artists that had played at Bass Coast before,” said Bass Coast Co-Founder

Andrea Graham. “We usually release the album during December as sort of our gift to the community, and also to fundraise for a cause.”

hope that it helps set the stage for their careers to also grow.”

For this year’s album, Bass Coast collaborated with a great assortment of artists to form a 12 track compilation, featuring Juno Awards winners like Tor and DJ Shub.

donation of $2500 was a big help for the Food Bank to afford six weeks worth of vegetables.

Though the holiday season had just passed, electronic music festival Bass Coast is still in the spirit of giving. Releasing the sixth volume of their annual compilation album titled ‘12 Days’, the festival will once again donate proceeds to the Nicola Valley and District Food Bank, helping feed the people of Merritt, Bass Coast’s host city.

Teaming up with artists, Bass Coast have created a compilation album titled

‘12 Days Vol. 6’ and released it for purchase on Bandcamp.

“We’re honoured to be a part of the Merritt community.” said Bass Coast Co-Founder Liz Thomson. “12 Days is our way of saying thank you and to give back to the incredible people who call this region home.”

Since 2015, Bass Coast have been releasing compilation albums for a cause, their first recipient being West Coast Environmental

The tradition stopped after its first year, but was picked back up in 2018 and has been done every year since. Artists that have performed at a Bass Coast stage are invited to submit their work to be featured in the album.

“The compilation highlights the artist and we try to have a mix of them that are both well established and up and coming,” said Graham.

“We are a homegrown festival, and most of the artists on the compilation are also homegrown, based in B.C. or other parts of Western Canada. Through this platform, we

“The people that are truly donating to the cause are the artists,” Graham noted. “They are the ones creating this work which raises the funds. Neither the artists or Bass Coast are taking away from the profits made by this project.”

For the past three years, the Nicola Valley Food Bank has been the recipient of the proceeds from the 12 Days album sales.

“We have huge gratitude towards them for doing this,” said Food Bank Manager Derlanda Hewton.

“We appreciate that they are open to helping through sharing their music and raising funds.”

Hewton said that last year’s

“It helps us provide our services to the community,” she said. “They absolutely give back to the community. We’re fortunate to have been the recipients of this for the past few years and I’m sure there are plenty of others in the community who have benefited as well.”

After releasing the album, Graham said that Bass Coast spends weeks promoting it before they collect the proceeds and gives it to the donee.

The full compi-

lation is available for preview and purchase here: bit. ly/12DaysVol6_ This year’s festival will be taking place on July 7 - 10. Bass Coast Festival’s

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Nicola Valley Search and Rescue open house

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Celebrating a major milestone this year, Nicola Valley Search and Rescue (NVSAR) will open the doors to its mobile command vehicle, and invite the public to learn more about the vital services they offer.

Celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2023, NVSAR has provided much needed support to area residents through local emergency services for two decades.

Offering a number of services related to the location and rescue of people in distress in remote or hard-to-reach locations, NVSAR is a non-profit and volunteer run organization. They often assist in missing person cases, avalanche rescues, and work in other often treacherous situations. As their 20th anniversary approaches, NVSAR hopes to showcase their two decades of progress to past members and the general public in an open house at Merritt Airport on January 15.

“We’re hosting an open house, and we’ll be showcasing some of our equipment, programs that we offer, different groups we have, gear, and our command vehicle,” said Tracy Dunsmore, secretary and training officer for NVSAR.

“It will be an open house, but we’ll also be invit-

ing some of our past members that participated in search and rescue in the last 20 years, so some of our SAR managers, executives, presidents, and people who were involved in setting it up, so they can kind of see how we’ve grown over the last 20 years.”

Dunsmore has 30 years of search and rescue experience, and has been involved with NVSAR since its inception in 2003. That year, members of the Merritt RCMP revived the group after it had previously folded due to lack of support. NVSAR is independent of the RCMP, but often works in conjunction with police. Their callouts mainly come from the RCMP and BC Ambulance Service, but a number of emergency services are able to request NVSAR’s assistance. Individuals cannot directly request the services of search and rescue.

Search and rescue organizations in B.C. are funded primarily by the provincial government, but do also rely on public support and donations to minimize costs to volunteers. While their training is paid for by NVSAR, those looking to join the organization may need to provide equipment such as boots, backpacks, and other neces-

On January 15, Nicola Valley Search and Rescue will hold an open house at the Merritt Airport

sities. New volunteers receive basic ground search and rescue training, and can branch off to more specialized training from there.

“We just started a new class in October, so we’re midway through that class right now,” noted Dunsmore.

“We usually do one [class] per year, but we take new volunteers throughout the whole year. People are welcome to come and attend meetings and local training, and when a new course comes up, they can go into that. They can also attend callouts and things without having completed the actual course, they’ll just be placed with a regular member.”

Due to the geographically diverse layout of the area, NVSAR volunteers can prepare for other scenarios in addition to the ground search and rescue training. Those interested in swiftwater rescue, ice rescue, avalanche response, and other areas of operation are required to complete specialized training before

responding to callouts.

Those interested in learning more about NVSAR should visit the organization’s open house, happen-

ing at the Merritt Airport on January 15, from 1:30 to 4:30PM. More information can be found online at www.nvsar.com.

to commemorate their upcoming 20th anniversary. Photo/Herald File

SPORTS

Merritt Centennials kick off 2023 with a pair of wins

at the 7:39 mark. The remainder of the period saw a number of penalties, but no scoring. It was a similar picture for the second period, with three penalties and 11 minutes passing before the next score. Smith, assisted by Allen and Jenkins, scored at the 11:50 mark to put the Cents in a 2-1 lead. The Bucks responded with a goal of their own just five minutes later, making it a 2-2 tied game going into the third. During a strong defensive third period, the Bucks would open scoring to make it 3-2 at the 7:52 mark. Following a tripping penalty against Cents forward Walker Erickson just minutes later, Christian Lowe would fire off a short handed goal to make it 3-3 for the Centennials. With four minutes left in the game, Ryan Spinale secured the victory by breaking the tie with a game winning goal, making it a 4-3 final score in favour of the Cents.

Johnny Hicks saved 48/51 in the win.

the Bucks, with Johnny Hicks saving 39/42 in the loss.

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt Centennials got off to a flying start in 2023, capturing two points of a six point week, and making some major trades in the process. During the week, a change in team leadership came as captain Davide Patella was traded to the Cowichan Valley Capitals, amongst a slew of other roster moves.

It was an early start for the Cents’ week of hockey, with the team playing their first game on Thursday, January 5, on home ice. Taking on the Cranbrook Bucks two nights in a row, the first game was a promising start. The Cents would open up scoring just 60 seconds into the first period, with Jackson MurphyJohnson sneaking one past Bucks goalie, Carter Capton. Following some back and forth, the Bucks responded with a goal of their own by Jeremy Tremblay

The Cents versus Bucks rematch took place just 24 hours later, also on Centennials home ice. With Johnny Hicks starting in goal once again for the Cents, the game was on. Scoring would be opened by Cranbrook this time around, with Bucks forward Nick Peluso securing the first goal of the game less than three minutes in. The remainder of the period saw little action, with the exception of another Bucks goal by Julian Frias with just a minute left, making it 2-0. The Bucks would also dominate the second period, once again opening up scoring with an insurance goal by Bauer Morrissey at the 9:12 mark. The rest of the period was great for fans of defense, with penalties and close saves aplenty. The third period brought a glimmer of hope for the Cents following a roughing penalty against the Bucks, which gave way to a power play goal by Jaxson Murray to make the score 3-1. That glimmer of hope slowly grew darker as time got away from the Cents, and would fully be extinguished by a Bucks empty net goal with 34 seconds left in the game. Final score was 4-1 for

The third game of the week was arguably the most intense, with over 28 minutes in penalties handed out, game suspensions for two players, and 9 total goals scored. The Cents headed to Kal Tire Place in Vernon to take on the Vipers. Connor Sullivan started in goal for the Centennials, seeing his first action of the week. The first period started out slow, and saw only one goal in its entirety. Following a tripping penalty against the Cents’ Connor Farren, the Vipers were able to capitalize on the power play and score the first goal of the game at the 8:43 mark. The rest of the first period saw little action besides an interference call against Vernon’s Anthony Cliche. The second period got off to a hot start, with Vipers’ forward Lee Parks scoring a goal just 1:17 into the game, making the score 2-0 for Vernon. The Centennials defence put on a good performance the rest of the period, but allowed one more goal at the 10:09 mark by Vernon’s Ethan Sundar, making it 3-0. The rest of the period would be scoreless, in the calm before the storm. The third period got off to a high octane start, with three goals scored in the first half. Thomas Tien would put Vernon into a 4-0 lead just three minutes into the third. Not long after, the Cents rallied and came back to put up two points within one minute, with both Christian Lowe and Tristan Allen scoring at the 8:38 and 9:38 mark, respectively. With the score now 4-2 within a matter of minutes, the game was back on and within reach for the Cents. The Cents’ Aleksey Chichkin received two minutes in the sin bin for tripping, which meant Isaac Tremblay of the Vipers was able to score a power play goal and solidify Vernon’s lead to 5-2. At the 18 minute mark, the Vipers would score again to make the score 6-2, making a Cents comeback nearly impossible. This wouldn’t stop Merritt from trying, though, as Diego Johnson would score at

the 18:27 mark for what would eventually be the final score of 6-3 for Vernon. The game didn’t end there, though, with a fight breaking out following a highsticking penalty against the Cents. The Cent’s Mark Thurston and the Vipers’ Anson McMaster received fighting penalties, with the Cents’ Aleksey Chichkin and Carter Schmidt receiving misconducts. Connor Sullivan saved 35/41 in the loss.

Following the weekend of games, both the Cents’ Thurston and Vernon’s McMaster were suspended for one game each by the BCHL Department of Player Safety. Also this week, Cents captain Davide Patella, who hasn’t played in a game for the Cents in 2023, was traded to the Cowichan Valley Capitals in exchange for future considerations. The Capitals then traded Patella, who had 7 goals and 14 points in 29 games for the Cents this season, to the Brooks Bandits of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). Defenceman Tristan Allen was traded to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in exchange for forward Aidan Lindblad, and future considerations. Also in exchange for future considerations, forward Walker Erickson was moved to the Vernon Vipers. Dylan Emerson, a 2005 forward, has also been added to the Cents’ active roster for the remainder of the season.

“These trades help our hockey club for the end of this season and into the future. Aidan is a 2004 forward with good size and a heavy shot who will get a bigger opportunity with us down the last stretch of the season. We look forward to seeing him in our lineup this weekend,” said Head Coach and GM Curtis Toneff.

The Cents will next take on the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in a road game on Friday, January 13, before returning home to the NVMA for a game against the West Kelowna Warriors the following day. Saturday’s game is Literacy Night, where attendees are encouraged to bring a new or gently used book as a donation.

Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com.

The Cents celebrate after Ryan Spinale scores what would be the team’s game winning goal against the Cranbrook Bucks on Thursday, January 5. Photo/Christina Jean Marius Auer

Merritt Snowmobile Club’s safety tips for sledding

that basically is a quick form that states how many are in the group, what radio channel you’re going to be on, what your cell phone number is, when you expect to be back, where you’re going to ride, who you’re riding with, and what frequency you’re going to be on for an FRS channel.”

group allows for discussion and event planning between riders of all skill levels. Group rides often take place in the MSC’s Brookmere-area network of trails, which are due for more technological upgrades soon.

Auer

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

It’s the Merritt Snowmobile Club’s busiest time of year, with volunteers working hard to maintain trails, upgrade existing infrastructure, and prepare for new projects thanks to newly allocated funding. In addition to providing the Nicola Valley’s highly active snowmobiling community with trails to ride on and events to take part in, the MSC is reminding trail users that safety comes first.

The Herald sat down with Merritt Snowmobile Club’s Vice President, Simon Rizzardo, to chat about snowmobiling safety, trail maintenance, and exciting new projects. Rizzardo’s biggest piece of advice? Plan your ride in advance.

“Make sure that you’ve given your plan or your trail that you’re going to ride to somebody that is staying back in town, so they have an idea where you’re going,” said Rizzardo.

“We do have a PDF on our website

Along with the handy PDF file, visitors to the MSC website can find the club’s trail webcams, which refresh every 10 minutes and will replay the previous 12 hours. The filled PDFs should be placed on the windshield of the vehicle left behind at the trailhead. In addition to the checking of webcams and filling of PDFs, Rizzardo says there are a few things to do to be prepared before hitting the trails. This includes ensuring sleds are in proper working order, checking the validity of registration and insurance documents, purchasing or renewing an MSC membership, and ensuring proper communications systems are in place.

Rizzardo also suggests the use of location beacons and two way radios, which can improve communication in group ride settings, or when heading out solo. He also discouraged solo trips for first time riders, or those unfamiliar with the area they’re riding in. The MSC Facebook

“The Merritt Snowmobile Club was given a BC Snowmobile Federation grant, for upgrading and installing a collection hut on the Honeymoon trail,” noted Rizzardo.

“We put in for four projects, and we’ve had one of them approved at this point, for constructing a collection hut with solar panels, communications, and a Wi-Fi hotspot out there. If it all goes up and starts working no problem, we may install another camera up there.”

The grant from the BCSF will allow Rizzardo and the MSC to install and maintain the collection hut, which is used as a stopping point for riders and as venue for collection of club dues. The club will also soon install a new webcam for their Honeymoon trail system, which is ready to be placed pending approval from the province.

For more information on the Merritt Snowmobile Club, visit their website at www.sledmerritt.ca.

Panthers host ‘Eagle’s Perch’ Sr. Girls Basketball Tournament

AA Volleyball Provincials. Now, basketball at Merritt Secondary School (MSS) is ready to start.

Last weekend the Panthers Senior Girls Basketball team hosted the Eagles’ Perch Invitational. This was a five team tournament with many talented play-

ers. The MSS team is a small group of students made up of Grade 11 and 12s. Merritt worked very hard throughout the weekend and managed to get third place.

The Panthers won two games and lost two games. MSS had one of the most exciting games of the

tournament, edging out Keremous 51-49 in the only game of the tournament that went into overtime.

The Merritt team was very proud of their performance

this weekend and excited for the rest of the season.

The Merritt coaches handed out four players of the game t-shirts throughout the weekend to give

recognition to the most hard working player of each game. Merritt’s four players of the game included Yolanda Charlie, Rae Bassett, Jilliann Jarivs, and Kylee

Bernier. All of the Merritt players played exceptionally this weekend and are ready for the rest of their season.

Merritt will move onto their

next tournament of the season playing in Kamloops the weekend on January 13 and 14. Congratulations to the senior girls for a great start to their basketball season.

Volleyball in Merritt came to a finish with the Senior Girls

The Merritt Snowmobile Club maintains a number of snowmobiling trails in the Merritt area.

Photo/Simon Rizzardo

Panthers play against Vernon Christian in the Eagle’s Perch tournament. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Marius

Rae Bassett MSS

New holistic healing business opens in Merritt

opening The Point Holistic Healing. The newly renovated storefront on Voght Street is now open for Merrittonians to enjoy massage therapy, reiki, acupressure, and boutique yoga services.

After being open for a short time within local cafe Brambles Bakery, The Point has returned to the downtown core after Dugas finished her two year intensive register massage therapy (RMT) training. Now offering RMT with direct billing to all major insurance companies, The Point is back with a refreshed menu of services. Dugas told the Herald that reopening The Point in downtown Merritt was an easy decision.

and works with a wide range of clients looking to accomplish a variety of goals. Some search for overall improved health and wellness, and other clients face neurological issues and degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s. Dugas also works with athletes and individuals looking to prevent injury. She said her one-on-one format, with sessions available by appointment only, means she is able to offer custom tailored services specific to individual clients’ wants and needs.

people into taking care of themselves in a hands-on way.”

Marius Auer

Emmanuelle Dugas has always had a passion for helping others achieve their health and wellness goals, with the local entrepreneur and massage therapist making her return to downtown Merritt by

“I grew up here, I’m from here, and when I had my business open at Brambles, I developed such a lovely clientele,” said Dugas.

“Everyone here is so nice and so welcoming. I just felt like there was room for me here, and I’m from here, so I decided to come back.”

Dugas added that she enjoys being able to bring the holistic services that The Point offers to a smaller locale such as Merritt,

In addition to massage therapy, Dugas is certified to offer reiki, a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing, as well as boutique yoga lessons. Another offering on The Point’s list of services is acupressure, similar to acupuncture, but using the hands to hold pressure points rather than needles. Dugas named The Point in a nod to the practice after finishing her acupressure training.

“I hold the points with my fingers instead of needles, hence the name, The Point,” said Dugas with a laugh.

“It’s a really gentle approach to get

Ice fishing at Peter Hope Lake

On January 21, 2023, the Men’s Group, Women’s Group, and Relationship groups organized by Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society (SCFSS), in association with Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly, Upper Nicola Kwu Stəmtímaʔ and Lower Nicola Band, will be uniting to host an Indigenous ice fishing event at Peter Hope Lake.

“We’re happy to be bringing our people out on the land to celebrate growth and wellness. We hope people bring their kids and come join us to celebrate traditional values and practices.” said Men’s Gathering organizer Mark Coutlee.

The different Indigenous social groups in the Nicola Valley will be collaborating for an Indigenous ice fishing event. This will serve as a celebration of wellness and culture of individuals in the valley.

“Men’s Group is designed for men to get out of the house, make new friends, learn culture and stories of this territory from all the events done and planned for the future. This is open for all men that want to learn and grow. Keep your eyes open on our Facebook page for posters on all the events

and come out have fun.”

SCFSS hosts monthly gatherings for men, women, and couples to provide a safe space where attendees can focus on growth, mental health, personal wellbeing, and culture.

“The SCFSS Women’s Group is a great place to meet other women and enjoy fun activities. Please come join us,” said Women’s Group organizer Emily.

The day will feature prizes for all ages with no cost to attend. There will be a wiener roast, snacks, and drinks available to those who make the trek. It will take place from 10AM to 2PM, and although some chairs and fishing gear will be provided, organizers ask you bring your own if you can.

For more information on this event, or any other questions about Scw’exmx Child and Family Services, please call 250-315-9071 or email Collin.Budd@Scwexmx. com.

Since opening in December 2022, The Point has kept Dugas busy with new appointments and returning customers alike. She is enjoying her new endeavour in sharing her passion for a holistic approach to health and wellness, and is accepting new clients. The Point Holistic Healing is located at 1918 Voght Street in downtown Merritt. For more information, or to book an appointment, visit www.thepointholistichealing.com.

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WEL COME YOU

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.

Emmanuelle Dugas is the owner and sole proprietor of The Point Holistic Healing on Voght Street. Marius Auer/Herald

Ice Fishing is a traditional activity performed by Indigenous people.

Photo/Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Izaiah Reyes

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

On the morning of December 30, 2022, Ray Poole of Merritt, B.C., passed away at the age of 74.

Ray was born to Alexander and Cynthia Poole Vancouver, B.C, in 1948. In August 1974, he married Therisa Andres, and together they went on a grand Yukon adventure, where they had two children, Shannon (Daines) and Heather (Fairley) The family moved to Merritt in 1984, where Ray began his 24-year career in the tire industry Over the years, the family also spent time in Vernon, B.C., Thunder Bay, O.N., and Princeton, B.C Ray and Therisa loved to live a nomadic lifestyle When they weren’t working, they were traveling around in their hippy van, camping, and seeing the sights Although Ray was known for his sense of humour, and for storytelling about his time in Ocean Falls, Woodfibre, and the Yukon, he will be remembered most for his kindness and for the love he had for his family and gaggle of girls

Ray is preceded in death by his father, Alec, and his mother, Cynth. He is survived by his wife, Therisa, his two children, Shannon (Cody) and Heather (Dwight), his four grandchildren, Sara, Emma, Caitlyn, and Sam, his three siblings, and several nieces and nephews A celebration of Ray’s life will be held in the Spring of 2023. Details will be shared with family and friends closer to the date In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate to JoeAnna’s House in Kelowna, B.C

Computer Tech 1/2 3353563 Open Until Filled

Af ter School Program Coordinator - Merritt 3351285 Open Until Filled

Temporar y Education Assistant – 3349961 Open Until Filled

Merritt Secondar y School

Fir st Nations Suppor t Worker 3259682 Ongoing

Strong Star t Coordinator 3256009 Open Until filled

Relief Education Assistant 3259613 Ongoing

Af ter School Program Assistant 3353582 Open Until Filled

Relief Clerk Typist 3256003 Ongoing

Relief Custodian 3259601 Ongoing

Relief Bus Driver 3255978 Ongoing

Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at https://www makeafuture ca/bcschools-and-districts/nicola-similkameen-school-district-no-58/ All applicants must provide a cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references for each position they want to be considered

Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

COMPUTER TECHNICIAN I / II

School District No 58 is accepting applications for Computer Technician

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