July 9 - 2020

FIRST NATIONS POLICING A STAPLE /PAGE 5

FULL DAY OF GOLF FOR ALS CHARITY / PAGE 16

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2020 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS • www.merrittherald.com

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INSIDE...

XMAS CANCELLED The Herald spoke to an organizer of Country Christmas to find out exactly what and why events were cancelled this December.

/PAGE 3

VIRTUAL PARTYING Bass Coast has decided to run a virtual version of the usual festival this coming weekend, with a hefty lineup.

LOCAL

BIODIVERSITY TRU student Kristi Gordon helped unveil new signs at the Laurie Guichon Memorial Grasslands Tuesday explaining recent research.

STORY/PAGE 3

/PAGE 12 ECONOMY BOOST The City of Merritt is looking for volunteers for an Economic Development Committee to help regain economic stability.

/PAGE 13

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2 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

July 9, 2020

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MLS#154125 $121,400 Beautiful decorated 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom home w/ contemporary design for you to entertain and relax.

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MLS#155926 $215,000 This beautiful lot with over 2 acres of usable, flat land is ideally located in the lovely community of Lower Nicola.

MLS#152760 $260,000 Just over 10 acre located in beautiful Miller Estates, a subdivision of custom built executive homes, just 10 minutes west of Merritt. Fantastic treed property to build your dream home and enjoy the Views.

MLS#153672 $265,000 Bright open concept 2-3 bdrm, 3 bath adult townhouse in excellent location near downtown core. The main floor has it all - kitchen, bright eating area, living room w/ electric fireplace, den, laundry, master bdrm w/ensuite.

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MLS#154482 $399,900 Nice family home only minutes walking distance to the downtown core. Three bedrooms up and three down.

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MLS#154580 $409,000 Very nice, move-in ready 3 bedroom rancher with full lower level, located within walking distance to downtown Merritt. Has a detached 14X24 insulated, wired shop with lane access.

MLS#155881 $414,900 Welcome to one of Merritts’ newest executive style town home developments nestled into the Spring Bank neighbourhood. This 3 bdrm, 4 bath home features a beautiful blend of contemporary and modern finishes.

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MLS#156871 $499,900 Very nice 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom family home located in the desired Merritt bench area. The home features the most amazing views from your large front deck off your living/dining room. The home has a new roof in 2017.

MLS#154507 $509,800 Don’t miss out on this newly built west coast contemporary rancher style home with full crawl space. 1705 sq ft 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath luxury home features open concept. Home offers a full 2-5-10 home warranty.

MLS#156960 $539,900 Amazing river & mountain views from this immaculate move-in ready, custom-built rancher w/daylight basement. The home features a bright open design w/kitchen, dining & living room all open with lots of windows.

MLS#155584 $609,000 CHARM, COMFORT, LOCATION, MORTGAGE HELPER AND A POOL! This stunning 1920’s craftsman home is a must see! This 5 + 1 bedrooms 4 bathroom home is located on a double lot with walking distance to downtown.

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MLS#157112 $725,000 This is the property of your dreams. This 3 bedroom charming character home is nestled on 11 acres of rolling fields of pasture land with panoramic views and fenced/ cross fenced. Property has a 2 bedroom guest home.

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THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

For all your landscaping needs call the professionals at

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

OUTDOOR UNVEILING

Research ongoing for local grasslands TRU students unveiled new research into grasslands near Lundbom Lake.

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Three new signs have been unveiled at the Laurie Guichon Memorial Grasslands Interpretive Site, detailing new information and research work that has been done by TRU students studying the biodiversity of the grasslands and plant species, specifically Spotted Knapweed, an invasive plant now considered a “major concern” by the Invasive Species Council of BC. The Interpretive Site, located on Lundbom Rd. on the way to Lundbom Lake, covers 102 hectares of Provincial Crown Land and was named in honour of Lawrence (Laurie) Guichon, a fourth

generation Nicola Valley rancher who was a founding member of the Nicola Watershed Community Round Table. Guichon’s vision was to share the knowledge and importance of BC’s native grasslands, which cover less than 1% of BC’s land base.

“35 or 40 years ago Laurie was riding on a bus and the person beside him said ‘when did they clearcut all these hills?’,” said Guichon’s widow, and former Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, Judith Guichon.

“And he realized there was a big proportion of the population that didn’t have a clue about our natural grasslands, and out of that we started to talk about this. There was another event where we had a lot of UBC students, and we were talking about the grasslands and one of the students said, ‘there’s no way I’ll ever trust a big rancher’, and looked at his cowboy hat. So, out of those two things he realized we had a communica-

tlcpond1@telus.net 250-378-4166

INSIDE Opinion ---------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------- 16 Classifieds ------------------- 18

Online Sarah Bayliff explains the research that she and others have done to help better understand the Laurie Guichon Grasslands Interprative Site. MORGAN HAMPTON/Herald

Whitehouse, who is also a Range Agrologist, each gave a short presentation describing their research, which was presented on the new signs.

Topics such as spotted knapweed, cheatgrass, various herbicides, range management and controlled grazing for weed

tion job we had to do.”

The site opened in 2001 and the three new signs are the first addition that has been made since that time.

Dennis Lloyd of the Grassland Conservation Council and TRU students Kristi Gordon, Sarah Bayliff and Rachel

management were all discussed as each panel was unveiled to the group. Also mentioned was the weed hand pulling challenge which will take place at the site this Saturday, July 11, open to anyone interested in helping to remove invasive species from the grasslands.

Insurance one of reasons for Country Christmas cancellation Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Merritt’s beloved Country Christmas Week, the kickoff to the festive season which takes place at the end of November, has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions surrounding events and gatherings.

Carrie Ware, Country Christmas Week organizing committee member and Light Up Parade coordinator, spoke to The Herald about the tough

decision that volunteers and organizers made to ‘cancel Christmas’ for 2020.

“All of the events of the week are cancelled,” said Ware.

“The Christmas tree light up, Christmas concert, Christmas dance recital, Christmas craft fair, and Christmas Light up parade.”

Ware explained that there were several factors at play surrounding the pandemic and reasons for cancelling.

“The insurance provider cannot guarantee insurance coverage and we are unable to get the answer to that until a month before, which gives us next to no time to plan,” said Ware.

“Social and physical distancing issues; if we are only allowed to have 50 people at an event, there will not be many people that will be able to watch the dancers and singers after you count up the performers. It’s the same for the craft fair. If you have 30-40 vendors, then

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only 10-20 shoppers are allowed in at a time.”

At this time, organizers do not feel that they would be able to follow the guidelines of the BC CDC. “As per BC CDC: ‘The timing for a safe restart for activities requiring large gatherings is still to be determined as part of the Phase four of BC’s Restart Plan, opening will be conditional on at least one of the following: wide vaccination, “Community immunity” or broad successful treatments.’,” said

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“As for the parade, we are allowed 50 vehicles gathered together, but limiting the watchers and keeping them socially distant would be next to impossible, in my opinion.

So, to keep everyone safe, all events have been cancelled.”

It is hoped that the public health situation will be different in 2021, and that the Country Christmas Week will resume at that time, bigger and better than ever.

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NEW POSITION There is a new position at the Merritt RCMP attachment, according to Operations Officer Josh Roda.

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READING CLUB The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library’s Summer Reading Club has now begun, with four different age groups taking part in fun challenges.

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4 • THURSDAY, July 9, 2020

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All City Council Meetings will now be held online with live streaming links available at www.merritt.ca and on the City of Merritt social media channels. Public input questions/ information can be submitted prior to the Council meetings to communications@merritt.ca Regular Council Meeting - July 21 - 7 pm Regular Council Meeting - August 18 - 7 pm

PROPERTY TAX REMINDER The City of Merritt would like to remind residents 2020 property tax are due on Thursday, July 2nd. Please note that there will be NO PENALTY applied on July 3rd. Residents will have until September 30th to pay 2020 property tax without a penalty. The penalty on October 1st will be 5% of your unpaid 2020 property tax.

A reminder that City Hall is open to accept payments by cash, debit and cheque from 10:00am to noon and 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Monday to Friday and closed on Canada Day.

NEW CITY OF MERRITT WEBSITE

The City of Merritt is please to launch a new website to provide easier access for residents to find City information and be involved in currently community initiatives.

Visit www.merritt.ca to view the new website today!

COMMITTEE OPPORTUNITY Volunteer positions are now available for the Merritt Economic Development Committee. This purpose of the committee is to advise Council on matters pertaining to economic development, downtown revitalization, investment, business attraction, and long-term economic sustainability. Committee application forms are available at www.merritt. ca. Completed applications can be sent to Sean Smith, City of Merritt Director of Corporate Services at ssmith@merritt.ca.

Deadline to apply is Friday, July 10th, 2020.

NOW AVAILABLE

MAXIMUM

30

SPEED LIMIT

CHANGE 30 km throughout the Bench District

The City of Merritt would like to inform residents of a speed limit change across the Bench District in Merritt. Twelve new 30 km speed limit signs have been placed throughout this area to ensure drivers are aware of this new change.

This speed limit change, from 50 km to 30 km, will help support a safer neighbourhood in this residential area.

VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO Including safe visiting advice and local services www.tourismmerritt.ca

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THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 5

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Community interaction at the heart of Tourism task Merritt’s First Nations Policing unit force to be built

Chester Williams is one of four officers that make up the Merritt RCMP’s First Nations Policing Unit.

Herald photo Morgan Hampton are involved in the vention, and working LOCAL JOURNALISM Nicola Valley Aboriginal towards the basic prinINITIATIVE REPORTER

The Merritt RCMP detachment has a First Nations Policing unit, which consists of four members who work in partnership with each of the five local bands in the Merritt area.

The Merritt members are: - Cpl. Rick AIRD from Moberly Lake.

- Cst. Tracy DUNSMORE from New Brunswick.

- Cst. Chester WILLIAMS from New Hazelton.

- Cst. Rose GRANT from Canim Lake.

First Nations Policing is a federal initiative provided with supportive funding from Public Safety Canada, which also provides resources and training to FNP members.

The FNP units focus on community-based policing and crime pre-

ciples of reconciliation.

There are two types of Indigenous policing, according to the government of Canada: - Self-administered Police Service Agreements, where a First Nation or Inuit community manages its own police service under provincial policing legislation and regulations; and - Community Tripartite Agreements, where a dedicated contingent of officers from the RCMP provides policing services to a First Nation or Inuit community.

Youth, elder safety and community safety are the top priorities for Merritt’s FNP unit. FNP members also work with Indigenous agencies within the community to address issues or concerns they may raise.

“Local members

Community Justice Program, which oversees Restorative Justice, Indigenous Court and the upcoming Indigenous Justice Centre,” says a statement from Merritt RCMP. “Several members also instruct courses at NVIT to assist in the recruitment of Indigenous persons into the RCMP as well as sitting on several other community boards and groups that help build relationships and provide services to the Indigenous communities.”

Members also participate in community events including an annual canoe pull on Nicola Lake which has taken place for the past seven years. FNP members also visit Band schools to provide demonstrations on topics such as community safe-

WE CAN

HELP! Do you have questions regarding • COVID-19 federal programs?

• Old Age Security?

• Guaranteed Income Supplement? or any other federal government issues.

CALL: 1.800.665.8711 EMAIL: Dan.Albas.C1D@parl.gc.ca WEB: DanAlbas.com

ty, domestic violence and the dangers of impaired driving, for which they use immensely popular pedal go-karts.

“What I like about the First Nations policing over general duty is the community interaction and the ability to have that relationship instead of going from call-tocall,” said Cst. Rose Grant.

“We use community interaction in order to build positive community relations with the RCMP and surrounding aboriginal communities. There are so many things that I like about FNP. I like how inclusive they are and invite us to community events and welcome us in.”

The plan to rebuild the tourism industry has been put in place through a collaboration.

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has signed a formal agreement for the first time with Community Futures Offices in order to create a task force to rebuild a resilient tourism industry following the pandemic.

Together, TOTA and Community Futures will implement strategies focussing on tourism growth, long-term resiliency, development and sustainability. These joint strategies will target the identification and support of business funding opportunities and expand knowledge of training, innovation, employment and the visitor experience.

“The partnership between TOTA and Community Futures is very timely,” said Rob Marshall, Executive Director for Community Futures Shuswap and Community Futures

Provincial Board Member.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic and devastating effect on tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan.

Helping industry recover and become more resilient for the long term is imperative. Our two organizations have come together to implement projects, access needed resources and share best practices to revitalize, support, and grow our tourism sector, during the pandemic and beyond. In short order, valuable synergies have been

See ‘PLAN’ Page 13

JOIN the

JULY 16TH to AUGUST 23RD

Merritt Otters are preparing for the

2020 SUMMER SWIM SEASON We are happy to be back in pool. We have a comprehensive COVID plan in place to eliminate risk. Plan available to view on team website. Safety is our first priority! See our website for complete information. We are excited to be able to provide this program to the kids of Merritt in this crazy year!

Register online at: www.teampages.com/clubs/5210 or google Merritt Otters Ages: 6 years to adults Bring swimsuit: To ensure proper group placement by coaching staff, new swimmers must be prepared to take a 10-15 minute swim evaluation after registration. This will place swimmers in groups at a similar level.

Due to COVID we are unable to place coaches in the water. We are only able to take swimmers this year who can swim 25 meters strongly unattended.

If parents are willing to join swimmers in water, exceptions may be made on a case by case basis at coaches discretion.

Fundraising this year will be $50 per family instead of per swimmer. If one book of 50/50 tickets are sold the fundraising fee will be refunded at season end. Fundraising fee will be collected online at registration FEES: Option 1: All swimmers (up to 5 days/week) $165 + $10 BCSSA insurance = $175 + $50 fundraising = $225.00 Option 2: All swimmers (up to 5 days/week) (those who were enrolled in spring dryland program) $165 + $50 fundraising = $215.00 Questions?

Adam Ware, Registrar: 250-315-7340 - ottersmerritregistrar@gmail.com.

Curt Thoms, President: 250-315-0040 - curtthom@telus.net

6 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

July 9, 2020

VIEWPOINT EDITORIAL

Country Christmas cancellation tough on community The cancellation of Merritt’s Country Christmas comes as a hard, yet inevitable JAKE COURTEPATTE blow to the HERALD commuEDITOR nity.

I can’t imagine how tough a decision that must have been for what I know must be a hardworking committee.

For months now, it has not even been newsworthy to write about the cancellation of most events going on in the community.

We have even completely rearranged our usual community board page at the Herald to instead promote a local business each week, tired of simply typing “_____ CANCELLED”.

Yet the need to cancel what is such a staple event to the community goes to show the grave situation of the pandemic more than most others: and that we are not even close to out of the woods yet.

It’s July. It is almost unfathomable to think that an event five months from now has to be cancelled, yet, here we are.

What a world we live in now where the community will not even be able to gather this holiday season to experience a town tree lighting together.

I have no idea what sort of planning would go into creating such an event, but I’m sure the planning started the second the parade ended in December of 2019.

My heart goes out to the Country Christmas committee. I am sure that you will bring back the festival in 2021 will be even more special to the community.

Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com

Hong Kong: the ‘British’ 3-million “We will grant BNOs five years’ limited leave to remain (in the United Kingdom), with the right to work or study,” British Foreign Secretary Dominic GWYNNE DYER Raab told the UK THE WORLD parliament on July STAGE 1. “After five years, they will be able to apply for settled status. After a further twelve months with settled status, they will be able to apply for citizenship.”

The stunning thing about this promise is that it applies to all three million people in Hong Kong – almost half the population – who have British National (Overseas) status by virtue of having been born there before the former British colony was handed back to the People’s Republic of China in 1997.

They don’t even need to have an actual BNO passport (although 300,000 of them do). All three million of them qualify: “all those with BNO status will be eligible, as will their family dependants who are ordinarily resident in Hong Kong. The Home Office

Sales Associate Michele Siddall sales2@ merrittherald.com

MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

will put in place a simple, streamlined application process. There will be no quota on numbers.”

This is an unprecedented commitment, and it’s not even a legal requirement. Britain voluntarily gave asylum to 30,000 Ugandan Asians in 1972 when the bloody dictator Idi Amin confiscated their property and expelled them from the country, but we’re talking about potentially a hundred times as many people in Hong Kong.

It is a debt of honour, however, as Britain negotiated an agreement with China that Hong Kong would keep the rule of law, free speech, and freedom of the press for 50 years after the hand-over in 1997. China has broken that ‘one country, two systems’ deal, and Hong Kongers can only expect a thinly disguised Communist dictatorship from now on.

It’s right there in the new ‘security’ laws imposed illegally last month by the regime’s rubber-stamp National People’s Congress in Beijing. New crimes include separatism, subversion, terrorism and ‘collusion with foreign forces’, the same vague catch-all charges that the Communist regime uses to suppress dissent in the People’s Republic. (‘Terrorism’ includes damaging public transport.)

Maximum sentence is life in prison.

Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@ merrittherald.com

RANITE AVE., PO BOX 9, MERRITT, B.C. PHONE (250) 378-4241

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. .

These laws will be enforced by China’s ‘security’ (i.e. political) police, who will now operate in Hong Kong. The charges they bring may be tried in Hong Kong’s courts, but if there are ‘certain circumstances’ or ‘special situations’ the accused can be extradited to mainland courts, entirely under the regime’s thumb, where the conviction rate is well above 99%. In other words, it’s over.

It’s not just freedom that’s over. As Chrisatten, Hong Kong’s last British governor, wrote recently: “If China destroys the rule of law in Hong Kong, it will ruin the city’s chances of continuing to be a great international financial hub that mediates about two-thirds of the direct investment in and out of China.”

The decision has been taken, and Hong Kong’s residents have two good reasons to leave: their freedoms are gone, and the economic future is grim. Many will decide to leave, but where can they go?

For the 300,000 Canadian citizens in Hong Kong, the 100,000 Australian citizens, the 100,000 British citizens and the 85,000 Americans, it’s easy. Most are ethnic Chinese from Hong Kong who knew that you could never trust the See ‘NEW’ Page 7 Communists, and

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@ merrittherald.com

Office manager Ken Couture classifieds@ merrittherald.com

FAX (250) 378-6818 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada

This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 7

www.merrittherald.com

OPINION

Thank you from Alzheimers Society Maria Howard CONTRIBUTOR

Each May in communities around B.C., people unite to walk to raise awareness and funds to help the Alzheimer Society of B.C. deliver programs and services for people affected by dementia.

This year, while we couldn’t connect in person, Canadians joined together in the first-ever IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s – online!

On Sunday, May 31 Central Interior residents showed that no matter what the world looks like, they are still united to support people affected by dementia.

During the national livestream, people shared stories about their experience on the

dementia journey, and showed us what they were doing to raise funds to support their local Alzheimer Society.

On behalf of the Alzheimer Society of B.C., I would like to extend gratitude to the participants, donors, sponsors, patrons and volunteers who made this first-ever online event a success. During the event, we heard again and again the same theme: dementia doesn’t stop and neither do Alzheimer Societies, who continue to provide support.

The funds raised at these events have helped the Alzheimer Society continue to meet the needs of British Columbians affected by dementia, including holding weekly webinars on topics of

particular relevance to caregivers and people living with dementia.

We’ve extended the hours of our First Link® Dementia Helpline, which is now open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. to provide evening service in English.

We have also launched surveys to seek feedback from people living with dementia and caregivers – as well as of health-care providers – to hear directly from them about how we can meet their support needs at this time.

We may not be able to be together in-person with our community members just yet, but thanks to the generosity of all our supporters, we will continue to work to ensure that they know they are not alone.

New BNO rule a “debt of honour” From Page 6 took out an insurance policy long ago by emigrating to another country and acquiring citizenship.

Most of them even bought houses, but then they moved back to Hong Kong to be with their wider family and make better money.

Many will go soon, because the Communist regime may start forbidding people to leave (it doesn’t recognise dual citizenship). Others will gamble on staying for the time being, in the hope that if it gets very bad they will still be able to get out later.For the three million more who have BNO status, it’s a harder choice. They have much less money, and no houses, no contacts, no jobs waiting for them in Britain. But they’re ambitious, they’re well educated, and a lot of them are young.

It would be surprising if at least half

a million of them didn’t take up the British offer.

Just one little problem: the children of people with BNO status who were born after 1997 but are too old to qualify as dependants – the 18 to 23-year-olds – are not currently eligible for BNO status. That includes a majority of the young adults who were active in the protests and have most to fear. But the British government says it is considering their case.

And one little doubt. It is still hard to believe that an ultranationalist British government that won the Brexit referendum on a wave of anti-foreign rhetoric, and a Home Office that still stubbornly maintains a ‘hostile environment’ for immigrants, will really keep these promises.

It would be nice if they kept their word, but it would also be quite surprising.

LETTER to the editor Trouble brewing downstream from Stump Lake Editor,

To the people downstream of Stump Lake, FACT: there is a dirt Dam left from a rancher that has water levels more than a meter above the natural outflow level. Stump Lake Creek has started flowing over.

So why care about water from Stump Lake NOW....

Extreme flood threat. It is a New uncontrolled large body of water dumping into the Nicola Valley. A flood next spring would wipe out Highway 5A then flow through Guichon Ranch easily overloading it’s 2 dams leading to an extreme Spring runoff not seen in over 100 years on Nicola Lake, Merritt and on downstream. This flood will happen because Stump Lake is now above full.

Taxpayer cost. So far the Department of Highways has spent at least $7 million when a solution to lower the lake in the dry season would have been a hundred thousand dollars. Stump Lake Creek is already topping 2 culverts at the 5A. Flooding Highway 5A at the south end will cost more $$$.

Expectations. Stump Lake’s ice will destroy the dozens of submerged structures and boating and fishing will be very difficult. A Government made environmental disaster downstream.

Dara Vink Stump Lake

Elimination of airline safety measures proves power of corps Editor, Our federal government’s passiveness in allowing Air Canada and West Jet to unilaterally make the life-risking decision to end their passenger seating distancing measures is further proof big business basically calls the consumer-health shots, when it should be our non-lobbied elected officials.

I believe that when the COVID-19 crisis began, the most influential voice to have our government’s ear were the largest corporations, particularly the airlines; the result was resistance against an immediate halt in international commerce, including overseas flights, weeks of delay that may have translated into many Canadian COVID-19 deaths.

Those doubting the powerful persuasion of huge business interests need to consider how governing officials can feel crippled by implicit or explicit corporate threats to transfer or eliminate jobs and capital investment, thus economic stability.

PM Justin Trudeau’s recent reputation-damaging experience with SNCLavalin Group Inc. is one scandalized example. How many more are there about which we’ll never learn?

Also concerning is that corporate representatives actually write bills for our governing representatives to vote for and have implemented, typically word for word (supposedly to save the elected officials their time).

A common government refrain prevails, that best business practices are best decided by business itself. Yet this was proven false by, as a most consequential example, Boeing’s decision to delay the grounding of its ill-fated 737 Max planes, regardless of indicators, including employee warnings, they should be grounded and serious software glitches corrected.

Frank Sterle Jr. White Rock

From the Herald archives: July, 2009

“LOCAL REPPING MERRITT AT WORLD GAMES” The World Police and Fire Games (WPFG)are headed to Burnaby, B.C. this year, and Merritt will be represented by Training Officer Sky McKeown.

McKeown will be participating in an event that he has been preparing for during weekends back home in Merritt.

“I’ll be heading up to Whistler Mountain on Wednesday [July 29] and participating in the downhill mountain biking,” he said. “I’m a member of the mountain biking association here, and I do a lot of cross country. I try to get out a lot on the weekends.”

McKeown said that the event is a 4 km route.

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

Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

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

John Isaac

250-378-1586

Johnisaac@telus.net

www.realestatemerritt.com

Ph: 250-378-6181 F: 250-378-6184

www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC

M E R R I T T

4751 PINERIDGE: Easy access to crown land and 2025 GRANITE: Commercial space in downtown local lake for exploring. Lot has water services in core. Spaces available from 230 square feet to 3250 place. Located between Logan Lake and Kamloops square feet. Lease rate of $8.00 per square foot triple net.

$107,000.

1355 NICOLA: Attention Investors! Rare Prime commercial location with 2100 sq ft building and incredible highway exposure with lots of parking.

$219,900

8 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

July 9, 2020

Voting Extended Due to COVID-19

2020

We have extended the voting for our People’s Choice awards due to COVID-19. The Herald stopped the print edition of the paper near the end of the contest, therefore, we feel that the public was not given proper opportunity to place their votes.

People’s Choice

Please be sure to have your vote count.

MERRITT HERALD

Awards IT’S TIME TO CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE IN THE NICOLA VALLEY PEOPLE’S CHOICE PEOPLE’S CHOICE

AWARDS AWARDS 2018

2019 2020

It’s time for people to make their choice. Indicate your top picks for the Merritt Herald People’s Choice Awards on this entry sheet, or using our online ballot form at https://www.merrittherald.com/peoples-choice-2020/

VOTE ONLINE!

https://www.merrittherald.com/ peoples-choice-2020/

Only original newspaper ballots and online entries will be accepted. No mechanical reproductions allowed.

Employees of Merritt Herald and their immediate families are not eligible. All ballots must be received or entered online by no later than Friday, July 31, 2020 at noon PST. Some restrictions and conditions apply.

Name: Address: City:

Email:

BUSINESS Landscaping Company ___________________________ Plumbing Company ______________________________ Auto Parts Store ________________________________ Clothing Store __________________________________ Cold Beer Wine / Liquor Store ____________________ Convenience Store ______________________________ Daycare ________________________________________ Dog Groomer ___________________________________ Fitness Facility __________________________________ Gas Station ____________________________________ Grocery Store ___________________________________ Hair Dresser____________________________________ Hair Salon _____________________________________ Hotel / Motel ___________________________________ Insurance Office ________________________________ Logging Company _______________________________ Unique Business ________________________________ Building Supply Company _________________________ Tire Shop ______________________________________ Accountant / Bookkeeper ________________________ Bank __________________________________________ Dentist ________________________________________ Doctor _________________________________________ Storage Facility _________________________________ Catering _______________________________________ Restaurant _____________________________________ Pub ___________________________________________ Massage Office _________________________________

Telephone: BUSINESS Pharmacy ______________________________________ Real Estate Company ____________________________ Optical Business ________________________________ Building Contractor Company _____________________ Electricial Company _____________________________ Welding Company _______________________________ Coffee Shop ____________________________________ Agricultural Business ____________________________ PEOPLE AND PLACES (Include Name & Business Name) Coach _________________________________________ Business Owner ________________________________ Club Organization _______________________________ Cook __________________________________________ Mechanic ______________________________________ Manager _______________________________________ Personal Trainer ________________________________ Photography ____________________________________ Realtor ________________________________________ Receptionist ____________________________________ Salesperson ____________________________________ Server _________________________________________ Local Musician _________________________________ Local Band _____________________________________ Teacher/Educator _______________________________ Butcher ________________________________________ Veterinarian ____________________________________

Select who your top choices are in at least 25% of the total categories. Contest closes Friday, July 31 at noon.

One entry per household per day.

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY PEOPLE AND PLACES (Include Name & Business Name) Volunteer ______________________________________ Customer Service _______________________________ Music Venue ___________________________________ Sports Organization _____________________________ Non Profit Organization __________________________ Best Local Event ________________________________ Animal Rescue __________________________________ FOOD AND BEVERAGE Burger _________________________________________ Chinese Food ___________________________________ Steak _________________________________________ Pizza __________________________________________ Soup __________________________________________ Wings _________________________________________ Dessert ________________________________________ Sushi __________________________________________ Sandwich ______________________________________ Coffee _________________________________________ TOP BUSINESSES Business Of The Year ____________________________ Business Overall (Under 10 Employees) ____________ _______________________________________________ Business Overall (Over 10 Employees) _____________ New Business (1 year or less in business)__________ _______________________________________________

VOTE ONLINE at https://www.merrittherald.com/peoples-choice-2020/ Physical ballots can be dropped off at the Merritt Herald office, 2090 Granite Avenue, Merritt, BC

THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 9

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

MSS adds three to permanent art collection

Adopt a Pet

View your feature best friend @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca

To make an appointment to meet your new best friend Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 (250) 574-1316 email: aarsrescue@gmail.com

“Breaking the Chain of Abuse”

Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. We are a Registered Charity - 847488269RR0001.

This feature brought to you by...

Three Merritt Secondary students have had their pieces inducted into the MSS permanent art collection. Kaleb Hall Moses (left), Sedona Reed (middle), and Janelle Gage (right) all had their art entered into the hallowed hall, a yearly tradition for the MSS art department. Each chosen piece is to be professionally framed and given a plaque providing the artist’s name and year of creation.

PURITY FEED

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Coldwater fight to protect drinking water “far from over” Jake Courtepatte MERRITT HERALD

The Supreme Court has dismissed the First Nations appeal against the Trans Mountain pipeline.

For the Coldwater Indian Band, it is quite a hard hit to the community: the approved pipeline passes through an aquifer that contains all of the drinking water for the roughly 320 people living on the reserve, just south of Merritt.

They worry that a possible oil spill could contaminate the drinking water.

Coldwater Indian Band Chief Lee Spahan said that he is disappointed, though not surprised.

“We knew the

chances of the SCC granting leave were slim, given the momentum of the project and the Federal Court’s finding that protection of our water can still take place in future routing decisions, but we felt we had to use every tool available to us.

“For us water is life. We continue to do everything in our power to ensure our sole source of drinking water is protected from the Trans Mountain Expansion Project.”

The federal government has a continuing obligation to keep in contact with the Coldwater band in regards to the project’s route, and the effects it could have on the aquifer.

If the route remains unchanged, the next course of action for the band would be to call for a hearing with the Canada Energy Regulator (CER).

Trans Mountain would have to prove to the CER that the route is safe for the Coldwater’s aquifer.

Trans Mountain submitted a report to the CER in May that the Coldwater band has rejected, saying that Trans Mountain did not provide a detailed enough report.

Canada’s own expert confirmed that Trans Mountain’s report fails to meet “minimum requirements.”

“We have been asked with Minister

O’Regan to require Trans Mountain to complete the study of our aquifer but has refused to help us. We are very concerned that the Minister is failing to fulfill his obligations to us and ensure that our drinking water is protected for future generations”, said Chief Spahan.

“If Canada continues to fail us, and if Trans Mountain refuses to move their Project out of the recharge zone of our aquifer, we may be forced back to court in an effort to protect our drinking water.

Despite today’s decision, there are further legal actions we can take if our water isn’t protected”.

MERRITT: 1690 Voght Street 250-378-4432

10 • THURSDAY, July 9, 2020

www.merrittherald.com

CENTURY 21 Moving Real Estate

®

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OLD

S Fabulous home in the downtown area, perfect for a large family. Has Mill Creek cabinets,huge family room, 2 F/P’s, 5 baths, 6 bedrms & inlaw suite. Double garage + single garage in back

Good starter or retirement home of approx 1700 sq.ft. with an addition of 180 sq.ft. hobby room on a 60x99 freehold lot. Has an attached 20x36 shop with 200 amp & 3 pce bathroom.

Private Lower Nicola property, nicely landscaped with creek running through front of property. 1 bedrm up & 1 down, open concept kitchen with all appliances & huge master bedrm with ensuite. Woodstove in full bsmt. Large workshop 22x50.

Nicely finished 5 bedrm, 3 bath home with open design kitchen/living room. Recent reno’s include flooring, paint, kitchen cabinets refinished with new counters & bathrms. Huge fenced yard, lots of parking.

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1651 GREIG STREET

$225,000 1967 SAGE PLACE

$475,000

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$499,900,

3001 HILTON DRIVE

Beautiful 3 bedroom rancher, move in ready with quick possession possible. Has open concept design with huge living, dining and kitchen area that opens to large covered deck in fenced backyard. High ceilings, crown moldings & all appliances included.

#3177

#3184

$269,000

#3190

$575,000

New 2 storey townhouse in Nicola Bluffs with great views. Open concept kitchen with Quartz countertops, vinyl plank floors, gas F/P 3 bedrms up, 4 baths and full bsmt. Has $4,000 appliance package & central A/C. Under construction.

#3172

$414,900+GST

6685 MONCK PARK

1653 LINDLEY CREEK RD

Build your dream hom on this 6674 sq.ft. building lot with spectacular views of the valley. Water & sewer are at the property line.

Close to all amenities.

11 acres with drilled well, fenced with good potential and fantastic views. Easy access, located off Coldwater Rd just 10 minutes south of Merritt. Great place to build your dream home.

Enjoy the great outdoors on this 1 acre lot in a great community on Iron Mountain, only 10 mins. From Merritt, 1 hr to Kelowna & 2 hrs from coast. Have your own country estate or hobby farm.

1 acre lake view property featuring stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake. Perfect recreational property or a year round residence.

Nicola Lake offers year round activities.

7874 sq.ft. lot in a growing newer subdivision and the natural slope of the land will allow for a rancher style home in front with a walkout basement. Great views

#3188

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NEW

$115,000

$159,900

$64,500

1561 MILLER ROAD

6433 MONCK PARK RD

1898 BLAIR ST

Lot 22, located in growing subdivision with amazing views of the Nicola Valley. Close to amenities. The perfect place to build your dream home.

Spectacular 76 acre property in Miller Estates just waiting for your dream home. Very private property backs onto crown land with fantastic views. Has Co-op water system and power at lot line.

This 1 acre lot with 180 degree view of Nicola Lake is perfect to build your dream home or recreational retreat. Lake access through the boat launch only minutes away. Services available

Fully fenced commercial property of approx. 30,000 sq.ft. with 2 titles. Seller is motivated & will consider carrying mortgage or a joint venture in a building complex

#3105

#3183

#3069

#3137

2725 PEREGRINE WAY

1720 sq.ft. rancher on corner lot, with open design concept featuring 3 bedrms, 2 baths, den/office, and has recent upgrades of new vinyl plank flooring & kitchen countertops.

Beautifully landscaped with U/G sprinklers, fenced backyard with pergola & hot tub hookup. RV parking.

Build your lakeview dream home on this 1 acre lot overlooking Nicola Lake with views of the valley. Boat launch is just minutes sway. Great lake for swimming, boating, waterskiing & fishing.

Just 2.5 hrs from Lower Mainland.

#3179

#3182

$569,900

$455,000

#3181

$165,000

2152 MERRITT AVENUE

2338B COLDWATER AVENUE

6449 MONCK PARK RD

Spacious new home with open concept floor plan, spectacular views & high quality finishing. 2 bedrms up, master on the main & 2 more down, 4 baths & full unfin. Bsmt. New Home Warranty. Double garage

New executive family home on the Bench with views. 3 bedrms, 2 baths, designer kitchen with quartz counters, gas F/P in living room, 5 pce ensuite & a full unfinished basement. GST applies

New custom executive home with fantastic views. 3 bedrms on the main with open concept floor plan. Master has 4 pce ensuite & W/I closet. Large private deck in back off the family room.

3 bedroom bungalow in good area with bright open fl oor plan. 2 bedrms up and 1 down. Large lot with room for garden, has detached 2 car garage and attached workshop. Great for first time buyer or retirees.

Very clean and comfortable 3 bedroom half duplex in good area. 2 bedrooms up, recently painted and has newer flooring in most rooms. 1 bedrm down, large rec.room and 3 pce bath. Private fenced backyard. Close to amenities

Build your dream home in one of Merritt areas finest development, Nicola Lakeshore Estates.

Water & sewer hookups available. Close to water access. This lake is known for fishing, water skiing & more.

#3174

#3175

#3176

#3185

#3074

THINKING OF SELLING?

$139,900

SOL

Beautiful 3 bedrm, 3 bath rancher with office/ den, and a fully bsmt. Features 9 ft ceilings, open floor plan with large newly renovated kitchen with island, laundry on the main & 5 pce spa-like ensuite. Bsmt has 2 bedrm inlaw suite. Lots of RV parking in fenced yard.

#3186

$285,000

6433 MONCK PARK ROAD

2749 PEREGRINE WAY

$639,900+ GST

315-3043

396 WILD ROSE DR

2760 PEREGRINE WAY

$739,900

Personal Real Estate Corporation

200 VEALE ROAD

2800 PEREGRINE WAY

2770 PEREGRINE WAY

$739,9000 + GST

Karen Yakimchuk 315-3076

Brad Yakimchuk

Jared Thomas 778-694-6804

Melonie Ivanic 778-803-6554

D

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Spectacular sunset views from this executive 5 bedrm home. Beautiful rancher with walkout bsmt. Open floor plan with Brazkian HW floors, ceramic tile & carpet on main. Mill Creek cabinets and S/S appliances. Large deck in back.

$454,900

1635 CHESTNUT AVE

SOL Good starter or retirement home in great location, close to schools & shopping. This 3 bedrm home has newer kitchen cabinets, furnace & some flooring. Large fenced yard with room to build shop. Single garage with upgrades. New roof.

Don Gossoo, Managing Broker

Doug Beech (Owner) 378-7392

BC LTD.

THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 11

www.merrittherald.com

$319,900

1425 MILLER ROAD

$249,900

4420 IRON MOUNTAIN RD

$159,900

$75,000

LOOKING TO BUILD?

Give us a call.

LOT A, MIDDAY VALLEY RD

1101 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

122 acres with multiple zoning of C4, C6, and R1. Buyer should contact the City of Merritt to request suitable zoning for match their project needs. Call for more details.

10 acre development site with CD-1 zoning. Will have city water and sewer (not connected yet). Bring your ideas and call for more details.

#2957

#2958

$439,900

$165,000

$439,000

6348 MONCK PARK ROAD

3551 VOGHT STREET

2845 NEILSON ST

1 acre waterfront lot on Nicola Lake. Build your dream home or vacation getaway . Land has gentle slope to waterfront. Great location for many water sports and close to Monck Park Provincial Park. Water & sewer to lot line.

1.5 acre C-4 lot in great area with good exposure just off freeway and located on Merritt’s motel row. Perfect place for hotel, motel, car wash, garden center & more. Call for zoning permitted uses.

15.9 acre RV Park zoning bordering the Coldwater River. Hookups in place & future set of plans for expansion available. Has city services. Has small rental home with long term tenants.

#3189

#3157

#3090

$425,000

MIDDAY VALLEY ROAD

$495,000

$1,650,000.

LOT 1, HOUSTON ST

923 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

Approximately 4 acre residential development property. Zoned R1. Bring your ideas and call for more details.

Approx. 291 acres of land with great potential. Current plans are for a 2 acre estate lot development within the city boundaries. Fantastic views of the valley.

D

L O S FULL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR TENANT PLACEMENT ONLY Inventory is low and we have Buyers looking.

FULL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR TENANT PLACEMENT ONLY

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DEANNA

Prices Starting at $104,000 + GST Fully serviced residential lots with fantastic views of the Nicola Valley and surrounding mountains. Choose your lot, bring your plans & start building your future! Close to #2894 shopping.

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--

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Located Off Petit Creek Road

Prices starting at $224,000 Country living at its best! Approx. 10 acres lots located 15 minutest west of Merritt in the beautiful Sunshine Valley. These properties have stunning views of the valley. Great area for horseback riding, biking, hiking and more. Call for full details. GST applies.

#2962

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#2959

$230,000

#2956

$3,990,000

IS IT TIME FOR A CHANGE?

Spius Creek Estates

-

Approximately 5 acre parcel, north facing, with fantastic views. City services, not currently connected.

Zoned R-9 High Density Residential.

Great opportunity. Call for details.

Merritt is a great community to raise your family, have a hobby farm, grow your business, retire or have a recreational property to escape to.

Surrounded by picturesque mountains and ranch land, our unlimited recreational activities offers something for everyone to enjoy – fishing, ATV, horseback riding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Let us help you find the right property that fits YOU!

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movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166

12 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

July 9, 2020

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Bass Coast goes virtual July 9-11

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Bass Coast will be hosting an online festival in lieu of their regular event, which was postponed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions around gatherings of large groups.

The Pixel Virtual Festival will take place on July 9-11, the same date as the Bass Coast festival was scheduled to run.

According to a press release, the event will feature an art installation discussion panel, innovative DJ sets, movement workshops, a workshop on mental health and a panel discussion on anti-racism.

On July 9, special

programming will be co-hosted by Twenty Twenty Global, a digital residency curated by 20/20 LDN Recordings, which broadcasts a weekly magazine featuring hip hop inspired electronica, alt rap, visual arts, dance and leftfield bass.

“Bass Coast isn’t just a weekend festival, it’s a culture that thrives year-round,” said Bass Coast cofounder Liz Thomson.

“With the cancellation of all festivals this summer it’s more important than ever to gather. We thrive on connection and Pixel Virtual Festival gives us a platform to interact with each other online while experiencing the best of Bass Coast: thoughtfully

curated music and thought-provoking workshops.”

This year, participants of the festival will also have the opportunity to donate to the BC Civil Liberties Association, in light of recent events surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement.

“We acknowledge electronic music is a culture invented and nurtured by black and queer artists, and will be raising funds for the BC Civil Liberties Association,” said Andrea Graham, Co-Founder of Bass Coast Festival.

“They are the oldest and most active human rights organization in Canada.

This is an essential organization at this

time because their mandate is to promote, defend, sustain, and extend civil liberties and human rights in British Columbia and Canada.”

The full music line up and program was announced Tuesday afternoon: amongst those involved in the music side of things are Anna Morgan, DJ Heather Jubilee, Just Sheila, and Lazy Syrup Orchestra.

“The roster is a diverse offering of Bass Coast alumni artists featuring house music, techno, jungle, soul, funk, bass, and more.”

Both holistic yoga and yoga classes will be offered virtually, as well as a program titled “Dance With Me.”

Photo contest on for prizes Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society (SCFSS) is holding a photo challenge for residents of Merritt, Upper Nicola, Lower Nicola, Shackan, Nooaitch, and Coldwater. The topic is ‘Family Activities’, with participants being asked to share a photo of themselves and

their family engaging in their favourite activity.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been socially distancing, but even Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has encouraged people to get out and get active: to enjoy the great outdoors with our families while taking appropriate precautions.

If you’ve been sedentary or spending too much time in front

of a screen during isolation, now is your chance to get moving and have a chance at winning prizes, too.

Photos of family activities are to be submitted to celyrae. street@scwexmx.com

by July 15 at 4:30pm.

The draw for prizes will take place on July 17. First place will be a $50 gift card, second place is for a $25 gift card, and the third prize winner will receive a SCFSS hoodie. Winning pho-

tos will be shared by SCFSS. SCFSS suggests that “deep pressure” activities, such as swinging on a swing, skipping, jumping on a trampoline or playing hopscotch can not only be a source of fun and exercise, but also help children calm down or overcome a difficult time which may otherwise result in emotional overload and acting out.

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THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 13

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Volunteers wanted for Economic Development Committee Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The City of Merritt is looking for volunteers to sit on the Economic Development Committee.

The Committee will advise council on matters regarding downtown revitalization, investment, economic development, business attraction and long-term economic sustainability.

Committee members will also facilitate participation from business and community members, city staff, and local government in matters relating to the Merritt Economic Development Action Plan.

“The Committee is focused around the action items in the Economic Development Plan, including downtown revitalization, investments, business attraction, and how economic development initiatives fit within some of the larger plans, the Official Community Plan for example, and the Age-Friendly Plan,” said Will George, Economic Development Manager.

“So, it’s quite a diverse committee and depending what people see as the priorities for economic development

that will help determine the particular projects within it.”

The Committee will consist of up to eleven voting members, including up to three members of council who will be appointed by the mayor.

Community members who are business owners or have a background in business, marketing, investment, or communications are encouraged to join the committee.

In addition, there will be several nonvoting members who will act in an advisory capacity, including the City of Merritt CAO, a representative from Chamber of Commerce, a representative from Community Futures Nicola Valley, and the TNRD Directors from Electoral Areas ‘M’ and ‘N’.

The Committee will also take on members and action ideas that were developed by the COVID-19 Economic Recovery group, which was designed to help local businesses bounce back from the pandemic that has drastically affected economies worldwide, including in Merritt.

“The Economic Recovery Group and the initiatives that came from it, there were some

community members that were participating in that and having weekly calls, but that was just focused on the COVID initiatives.”

George said “tthe conversation from that

was those initiatives, as well as those that were interested would transition, and the projects would transition to the Economic Development Committee.

“Because it needs to

be a City Committee if we’re putting dollars behind it and staff time.”

The original deadline has been extended to Friday, July 10, 2020.

Application forms can

be found online on the City of Merritt website and once completed can be submitted to Sean Smith, Director of Corporate Services at ssmith@merritt.ca “We’re really look-

ing for those that are interested to submit their application by Friday, and then we’ll be bringing that forward at the end of the month and hopefully have the first meeting in August.”

Plan to regrow local tourism From Page 5 developed and will certainly result in successful outcomes.”

Locally, Community Futures Nicola Valley believes the partnership will be a benefit to Merritt and help businesses recover from the economic difficulties presented by the pandemic.

“We are presently working to increase collaboration between TOTA and Community Futures,” said CED Coordinator Mae Ketter.

“We will work

together to identify and implement projects that will assist tourism businesses. Increasing collaboration, discussing best practices and lobbying for resources to grow the tourism sector is a win-win. CF Nicola Valley feels that working with each CF office in the region, as well as TOTA who is the Regional Tourism Association will help grow the tourism sector. This increased exposure would support economic development for all businesses including tourism.”

Born in Montreal, Canada - Chappy was once pursuing a career in Environmental Science at Concordia University. He dropped out of school in 2018 and moved from his hometown to the other end of Canada, in Vancouver. He lived in a mini van to save money, started networking with producers from the west coast and released the High Relief. ep a month later.

Chappy has never looked back and keeps constantly releasing music. After a 4 month tour in India that was cut short because of Covid-19, Chappy is working on new music back home in Vancouver, plotting his blow up.

14 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

July 9, 2020

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS DRUG USE

First Nations overdoses rise sharply during pandemic First Nations Health has seen a 93-percent increase in overdose deaths during the first half of the year.

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Statistics show that illicit drug toxicity and fentanyl-detected drug deaths has reached an all-time high, with May 2020 being the deadliest month for overdoses in BC’s history.

Indigenous people continue to be a severely affected group.

According to data released by the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) deaths of First Nations, Métis and Inuit due to illicit drug toxicity spiked between January and May of this year. During that period 89 deaths of indigenous people were recorded, a 93% increase compared to the same period last year.

While First Nations, Métis and Inuit people account for just 3.4-percent of BC’s total population, they

accounted for a staggering 16-percent of all recorded illicit drug toxicity deaths, dying at a rate of 5.6 times the rate of other BC residents this year.

That is compared to a rate of 3.8 times in 2019.

There are several suspected reasons for the increase in overdose deaths within the First Nations, Métis and Inuit community, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic which has disrupted the drug supply and resulted in making the current supply more toxic.

Social distancing also encourages people to stay home and this isolation may have unintended negative consequences for those with substance abuse issues, such as using alone when they otherwise would not have, or being less likely to access harm reduction services and supports.

“This data demonstrates that the

opioid crisis continues to disproportionally affect vulnerable BC First Nations people,” said Charlene Belleau, Chair of the First Nations Health Council.

“The current COVID-19 pandemic is also creating challenges for those struggling with addiction.

Properly resourced treatment centres and culturally safe harm reduction strategies will be critical moving forward. Now, more than ever, our people need this support.”

Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry also noted the continuing need for people suffering substance abuse and addiction to use available supports during the pandemic.

“The increase in overdose deaths amongst Indigenous people in BC is deeply concerning,” said Dr. Henry.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing all

B.C. Mental Health and Addictions Minister Judy Darcy, pictured, called the rise in recent First Nations deaths “devastating.” File photo

of us to stay farther apart from others, isolating people and adding to what is already an immense challenge.

We need people living with substance use and addiction to know that there are still supports in place to keep people safe and prevent overdoses.”

Other contributing factors are the fact that indigenous people in BC often face poverty

and lack of housing, social determinants of health which are also predictors of addiction and substance use disorder.

The number of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people dying from illicit drug toxicity has climbed steadily each year since 2016, when BC declared a public health emergency regarding the opioid crisis, with the

exception of 2019 when there was a 44-percent drop compared to 2018.

“This is truly devastating to all of us,” said Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

“We mourn deeply with each and every family for those we have lost to this terrible crisis. Indigenous Peoples are over represented in this crisis and

we are committed to working together with First Nations communities and leaders to create mental health and addictions services that are culturally safe and community led so that more families don’t have to keep experiencing these unimaginable and preventable losses of the people we hold close in our lives.”

We would like to CONGRATULATE

INSPIRE TRAILS

on their new, beautiful websites, designed by our very own Aberdeen Publishing Digital team.

THANK YOU FOR BUYING LOCAL! We are happy to be a part of your digital experience by designing a website that is professionally designed, secure and owned by you!

SEE WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU, VISIT: https://www.inspiretrails.ca/ Watch for more exciting website designs by the Merritt Herald!

If you would like to expand your digital presence with a fresh new website that you’ll own and can manage, or want to look at Search Engine Optimization to bring your company to the word search forefront, contact Michele or Theresa at the Merritt Herald for more information.

WE WOULD BE HAPPY TO SHOW YOU SOME OPTIONS!

2090 Granite Ave., Merritt • 250-378-4241 • Theresa: publisher@merrittherald.com

THANK YOU!

THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 15

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to our donors for making it possible to bring back our printed edition of the newspaper. We would not have been able to do it without you.

♥ l a i c e p S ank You Th to all the businesses who have continued to support us throughout these difficult times.

Please remember to support local shopping.

Supporting local helps everyone thrive.

LIST OF DONORS • Joanne Woods • Stephanie Troughton • Chris de Haan • Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants • Clemens Kummerlaender • Ho Ka Fai Simon • Gillian Rose • Linda Brown • Mike Hilton • Callie Langlois-Torgerson • Alex Doll • Jana Rosenberg • Bill and Tina Mikita • Joyce Crosina

• Elizabeth Perdok-Waboose • Janet Hohner • Amy & Bradley Courtepatte • Naga Shunmugam • Carolyn Wainwright • Steve & Pat Gontar • Elizabeth Nel • Evan Walsh • Charmaine Staley • Hans Treis • Carmen Fairley • Terence Grams • James A Clark

• Sheila Butler • Matthew Starr • Stacey Krajci • Elizabeth Nel • Peter Spencer • Rod & Sharon Courtepatte • Mary Macgregor • Ross Horrocks • Sarah Sandusky • Emily Wessel • Marise Sasges • Jeanette & Mike Matthias • Terrence Neilson

• Lavinia Wilson • Dara Hill • Jurgen Lutter • Ellen Nast • Ka Fai Simon Ho • M.Cooper BCYR Fundraising Coordinator • Brent Campbell • Scentman • Anne Wray • Shirley Dumma • Ben Klassen

• Margaret Carlson • Alice Murray • James Murdoch • Cole Wagner • Gayle Munz • Barinder Chauhan • Joan Negrin • Betty Ann Mcdonnell • Ted Lund • Extra Foods • Gordon Swan • Diane Quinn • Plus a few generous anonymous donors

If you would like to donate, please go to support.merrittherald.com or drop by the office at 2090 Granite Avenue

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July 9, 2020

SPORTS

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

Kamloops grabs Sweden’s Persson in CHL Import Draft

Lee Ranger, Steve Coulthard, and Josh Horsthuis golfed as many holes as they could on June 24 to raise money for ALS research.

Photo submitted Jake Courtepatte MERRITT HERALD

Every golfer’s dream was carried out by three pros at the Okanagan Golf Club on June 24 for charity.

Viktor Persson, selected by the Kamloops Blazers in the CHL Import Draft, is looking to score a selection in the upcoming 2020 NHL Draft. Photo via Kamloops Blazers Marty Hastings KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

The Kamloops Blazers picked defenceman Viktor Persson of Sweden 56th overall in the CHL Import Draft, which was held online in late June.

Persson, a 6-foot2, 192-pound right shot, is pegged 44th among European skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s rankings for the 2020 NHL Draft.

Entering his 19-year-old campaign, Persson, who has a late birthday (Nov. 7), is likely to have a one-season stay in Kamloops, as he aims to be selected in the draft and earn a pro contract.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an abundance of unknowns for everyone in the hockey world, including Blazers’ general manager Matt Bardsley and European imports such as Persson.

For now, the WHL aims to open training camps on Sept. 15 and begin regular-season

play on Oct. 2, but the league requires approval from government and health authorities in its six jurisdictions to go ahead. WHL commissioner Ron Robison said a minimum of 50percent capacity in all arenas will be required for play to begin.

Bardsley, who is familiar with Persson’s agent, Todd Diamond, said the Valbo, Sweden, product is keen on coming to North America.

“We feel pretty good about that,” Bardsley said of Persson, whose home country, the only European nation not to adopt a harsh lockdown, has been criticized for its handling of the novel coronavirus. “With the situation going on in the world, I’m not sure if that will change anything. We’ll have to see how that plays out.”

The Blazers’ defence corps is expected to again be a veteran group, with Sean Strange (20), Montana Onyebuchi (20), Quinn Schmiemann (19),

Persson (19), Inaki Baragano (19), Ethan Brandwood (18), Logan Bairos (17) and Mats Lindgren (16) among potential key cogs.

Kamloops has six 20-year-olds on its roster — Strange, Onyebuchi and forwards Orrin Centazzo, Brodi Stuart, Ryley Appelt and Tyler Carpendale.

Only three will remain after the overage deadline, which will no longer be on Oct. 10. Bardsley said he expects the cutdown day to be in late October if the season begins on Oct. 2.

Centazzo seems a lock to remain on the team, with Stuart, Strange and Onyebuchi among top candidates for the remaining two spots.

Does the addition of Persson mean either Strange or Onyebuchi are more likely to be moved?

“We still have to figure that out,” Bardsley said. “One thing we don’t know, either, is if there could be some

pro opportunities for our guys, as well. It’s just not knowing. To start the year, I think there is going to be an abundance of 20-yearolds, even players who have signed NHL contracts. They may start the season back in the Western league and, once the NHL starts up, there may be guys that leave or go to the AHL. We’re not really in a hurry to finalize anything right now.”

Bardsley noted he does not want to hinder the development of younger players by limiting their ice time.

“We have to manage it and balance it,” he said. “We have such a strong group at all positions that, if there was a player that happened to get a pro contract and is no longer an option, we have good depth, ability and experience. I’d rather have this situation than trying to figure out, oh boy, we need to get some players.”

Bardsley has studied film of Persson, who grew up playing for Brynas IF, a club located about 30 minutes from his hometown.

The Blazers’ GM said his import pick can play both sides and is comfortable on the power play and penalty kill.

Persson tallied 18

Lee Ranger, Steve Coulthard, and Josh Horsthius took to the links from sunrise to sunset to raise money for ALS research, on behalf of the points, including five goals, in 26 games last season, his 18-year-old campaign. He was toiling for Brynas IF in the under-20 SuperElit League and finished second among defencemen in club scoring.

“He joins the rush, leads the rush, has offensive skill and is sound defensively,” Bardsley said.

“I’m not really concerned with size, but he is physically mature and comes with size.”

Persson is likely to arrive in Kamloops by Sept. 1 if WHL training camps are to open on Sept. 15, giving him time for a 14-day quarantine.

PERSSON ANXIOUS TO GET TO KAMLOOPS Viktor Persson will no longer be alien to North America if his pursuit of a pro hockey contract jumps ship to the Western Hockey League in September.

The Swedish defenseman is aware of the pandemic’s potential to pre-empt the WHL campaign.

“That would be a big disaster, actually,” said Persson.

“My goal is to come to Kamloops and play. If that doesn’t happen, I don’t know what’s going to happen. I’ll be

annual PGA of BC Golfathon.

From 4:55a.m. to 9:15p.m., the three pros were able to play a round of 468 holes. “(We are) golfing in memory of my dad, Dave Ranger, who passed away in January,” said Ranger, who is the club’s director of golf.

“I had a fifteenth club in the bag for Dad, and one of our duck decoys that we shared back when we would go duck hunting together. We also had Aries, our PADS Service Dog in training, who was along for 36 holes.”

Ranger called Aries “a scratch

golfer.”

Proceeds from the Golfathon for ALS provide crucial support services to ALS patients and their families, friends, and caregivers provided by the ALS Society of BC. Throughout the monster round, the trio was able to manage to score 69 birdies, three eagles, and even a double eagle from Horsthuis who managed a two on a par five.

The Okanagan Golf Club is one of 28 golf courses taking part in this year’s Golfathon, with the club having raised $1,000 to date.

very disappointed.”

Persson’s ranking at 44th among European skaters generally denotes potential to be drafted somewhere in the fifth, sixth or seventh round.

Persson, who was absent from Central Scouting’s mid-term list, is likely to have a one-season stay in Kamloops, aiming to be selected in the draft and earn a pro contract.

“Well, of course, I want to do it [get drafted], but I don’t think of it that much,” Persson said. “If it happens, it happens. If it doesn’t, it’s not the end of the world.”

Sweden, the only European nation not to adopt harsh lockdown measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has been criticized for its handling of the novel coronavirus.

Persson is from Hedesunda, but moved about 37 kilometres north to Gavle, a city with a population of about 100,000, when he was 15.

He was asked for his take on how the pandemic is affecting life in area.

“Well, in Sweden, I feel like we don’t take it as serious as they do in Canada,” Persson said. “We can go any-

where we want and it’s not affecting our life that much. The schools closed, but not so much after that. We can do what we want, almost everything.”

Todd Diamond, Persson’s agent, put his client in touch with general manager Matt Bardsley and the Blazers.

“I talked to the coaches and it sounds really good, just how they see the game,” said Persson, who admires the skills of Swedish defenceman John Klingberg, who plays for the Dallas Stars. “They seem to have really good development and focus on the players.

Development is No. 1 and I’ve also heard great things about the organization.”

Both the Stars and Blazers are owned by Tom Gaglardi.

When not on the ice, Persson enjoys playing golf and exploring nature.

“I like going out in the forest,” he said.

“I heard there is great nature [in Kamloops] and it’s kind of like the town I’m living in now.”

Marty Hastings is a reporter with Kamloops This Week.

THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 17

www.merrittherald.com

COMMUNITY BOARD The Merritt Herald is changing up the way we do the community board.

With all events being cancelled throughout the area we thought it would be nice to feature some local businesses. If you would like to nominate a business to be featured please email: publisher@merrittherald.com We want to help all businesses survive this pandemic.

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

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Business Feature Beyond Fitness, formerly Planet Fitness, has been Merritt’s primary gym and a staple of the community since September 1999.

Husband and wife duo Marcel and Theresa Ouellet took over in 2002 and have been working to expand and improve the gym’s services ever since.

“I originally started out doing rehabilitation for clients of Dr. Colin Gage, and members of Planet Fitness; ICBC, long term disability, and WCB work in ’99,” said Marcel Ouellet.

“A few years later, an opportunity came to purchase the gym, as it was for sale. My wife and I had just moved to Merritt from Chilliwack a few years prior, and felt this this would be an excellent opportunity. I thought this would be something exciting to do, as it was in the direction of my health rehabilitation training. It made sense for me to buy it. Years later, we purchased a few more gyms in Richmond and also in Squamish, which we sold over the

years.”

Today, Beyond Fitness offers something for everyone, and the Ouellets strive to provide well rounded programs in a welcoming environment where your current level of fitness doesn’t matter, only your goals and determination to get where you want to be.

“I feel that we’re bringing a big city gym to a small community, and giving people access to a big city gym in a small community,” said Ouellet.

“It gives people more options for their health and wellness and fitness. We want everyone to have access to living a healthier lifestyle.

We have recently partnered up with various Bands and businesses in the community to make it possible for everyone to have access to an affordable membership, especially those that would not have taken the steps of ever setting foot in a gym. We try to make it easy for everyone, and make everyone feel comfortable in a safe

environment.”

Between the main Beyond Fitness and the secondary facility, Beyond Fitness Ladies, which is a 24-hour ladies only gym, there are more than 100 pieces of equipment available to members and roughly 15 classes per week. Classes, which are included in memberships, are diverse and include yoga, bootcamps, spin classes, HIIT, Pilates, cardio, stretch and strength, and Zumba.

“We are a facility that caters to the whole population; men, women and kids, and athletes,” Ouellet said.

“We range from having seniors’ classes all the way to having an intense boot camp.

We cater to retirees, we cater to the Merritt Centennials which have been part of our facility for 21 years now. We have programs for hockey players, kids, we cover the general population.”

Beyond Fitness is more than just a place to work out, you can come and work up a sweat and then head home, or you can take

advantage of the other services available.

Even if you aren’t someone who works out in a gym setting, Beyond Fitness is a great place to stock up on supplements, or even hit the tanning beds.

“We have a full supplement store in our gym, we offer tanning, we can cater to any individual’s needs or goals in their health and wellness,” said Ouellet.

“We have a certified kinesiologist who will put you on the right program to make sure that you’re getting the most benefit from working out, and getting results. We also have a smoothie bar, which a lot of members love having after their workout.”

Bringing all of these options to Merrittonians is an important part of the Ouellets’ business,

although they never imagined becoming Merrittonians them-

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Ave. (Corner of Coutlee and Orme) • 250-378-2464 Service Time/ Sunday School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 • Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2451 Spring Bank Ave • 250-378-5603 Worship Service Sunday -10 am • Sunday School -11:10 am

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time/ Sunday School (K - Gr. 4) - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:30 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

7 Day Weather Forecast Merritt, - Thursday, June14 25--Wednesday, Wednesday, March July 1, 2020 7 Day Weather Forecast for for Merritt, BCBC - Thursday, March 20, 2013 Thurs. June 25

Thurs. Mar. 14

Cloudy w/Showers A few showers High High: 20˚C 9C Low: 6C Low: 9˚C

Fri. June 26

Fri. Mar. 15

MainlyPeriods Sunny Cloudy High: 21˚C High: 10C Low: 4C 9˚C Low:

Sat. June 27

Sat. Mar. 16

Mix of SunClouds & Clouds Variable High: 22˚C High: 8C Low: 12˚C Low: 4C

Sun. June 28

Sun. Mar. 17

MainlySnow Sunny Wet

High: 19˚C High: 6C Low: 2C Low: 9˚C

Mon. June 29

Mon. Mar. 18

Tues. June 30

Tue. Mar. 19

selves.

“We moved here 22 years ago for a

Wed. July 1

Wed. Mar. 20

Stain Glass by

Almerina Rizzardo

• • • • Chance of Showers Variable Clouds High: 19 ˚C High: 6C Low: 0C Low: 8˚C

Mix of Sun &Showers Clouds SnowRain High: 20˚C High: 7C Low: -1C Low: 8˚C

one-month practicum, for my kinesiology program, and then one month turned into 22 years,” explained Ouellet, who has now raised his family in Merritt.

The Ouellets’ son, Connor, was a young Merritt athlete, playing Minor Hockey.

He now occasionally works alongside his sister, Breanna, at the gym, making the facility a true family business.

“I’ve been married for 20 years, I have two kids, Connor and Breanna who also happen to work at the gym,” said Ouellet.

“It’s nice having your son and daughter be there as well. It’s a family business.”

Light MainlySnow Sunny High: High: 20˚C 7C Low: 0C Low: 8˚C

STAIN GLASS SUN CATCHERS NIGHT LIGHTS PICTURE FRAMES

Available at Creative Company 2074 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC Monday - Saturday Ph: 250-378-0813

18 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

July 9, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: sales2@merrittherald.com Announcements

Garage Sales

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Estate Sale. Friday & Saturday July 3 & 4 and July 10 & 11 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

520 Humphrey Rd. Go past the rodeo. Follow property Guys signs for 9 minutes. **Social Distancing Will Be Expected** Log cabin antiques, oak desk, period chairs, generator, ATV’s, filing cabinets, mirrors, men’s watches, framed prints, brass lamps and bells, records. limited editions 1905 book set, oversize framed blk/wh prints, tents,sleeping bags, inflatable boat, life jackets and so, so, so much more.

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Fall Fair Giant Yard Sale.

Lindley Creek Rd. Sat July 11.

10am to 2pm. Donations accepted at the door. Safe Distancing Practices In Effect.

Further questions call Cliff or Martha at 250-378-2303

In Memoriam

In Memoriam

Attention

Jerry: July 4, 2014 & Brenda: July 13, 2014

Wanted

Reward for the return of a lost Black Motorola Cell Phone.

Lost in the area of Quilchena and Voght. Call 778-661-0934

Cash for gold and silver! Also buying coin collections, old money old jewelry Contact Todd 1-250-864-3521.

We love you & miss you forever!

Cindy, Heidi, Cody, Jessica, Cathy, Dwight, Joel, Heather, Charlie, Walker, Sawyer, Christy, Gustavo, Patrick, Sofia and Josie.

Obituaries

Obituaries

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1 Bedroom For 1 N/S Adult, N/P’s. Heat & cable Included. $650 per month. Avail. Aug.01 Ref’s Req’d (250)378-2954

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Lower Nicola. 2 Bedroom Trailer with addition. No Lawn Work. Prefer 55+ only. N/P’s, N/S. Ref’s. Required. $850/month. (250)378-4166

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General Employment

JERRY & BRENDA LARSON

Mom and Dad, It’s so hard to believe it’s already six years since you left. We all experience memories of shared moments daily and are so thankful for your love, your humour and your wisdom. We all still miss you so very much every day.

Book by province or whole country and save over 85%!

General Employment

In loving memory of

Yard/Garage Sale. Sat&Sun (July 11&12). 8am to 4pm.

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Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m

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Local steady work

LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161 SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

Hot Lunch Program Coordinator School District No. 58 is accepting applications for Hot Lunch Program Coordinator at Merritt Central Elementary School. 5 days per week | 5 hours per day. Must have completed food safe course. Previous experience dealing with students would be an asset.

If interested, please send your resume along with three references to Sarah Blonde at sblonde@365.sd58.bc.ca or on-line at www.sd58.bc.ca, click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 2867554).

Looking for EXPERIENCED CLASS 1 LOGGING TRUCK DRIVER in the Merritt area.

Provide resume and N print abstract to da-lee@outlook.com

To advertise in To advertise in Employment Employment call 604-630-3300 Call 250-378-4241

4th Meridian Auctions & Vintage Shop Now Accepting Consignments of Fine Art + we buy quality antiques & vintage items ~ We host regular online art auctions & sell art, furniture + collectibles directly at our shop & showroom in the Cannery Trade Centre 104 - 1475 Fairview Road, Penticton

Open Tuesday - Friday 11 - 4 or by appointment: 250-462-4969 or 250-488-0850 www.4thmeridianvintage.ca | www.4thmeridian.ca

Special Events

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THERE’S MORE ONLINE Be a part of your community paper & comment online.

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THURSDAY, July 9, 2020 • 19

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S NATION Butcher 66 and said for age at rathon people merrit saw AL he retired par- when and half-ma therald.com inspiration PAGE 25 CHAMPS er was a big the 5K, 10Kthere were about 300 his daught In total, event organizer Mary [triathn him. said Ironma the ticipants, “She’s done the way. [She] said, and led Jorgensen. had 157 runners, I did,” ants. lon] and shedon’t you run?’ so The 5K 100 particip d why ‘Dad, the halfr. well. the 10K attracte people ran said Butche came out to run as ars Thirty-three bcclas Familie sified.com her eight-ye5K on.

Merritt and of e marath Rotary Club Helen AsseltinPaige finished the e e particiFormer er The Darch Oborn old daught r. Her husband Graem president half-marathon race.

THURSDAY were not togethe Isaac having race the , JUNE -old son pated in is an avid runner, 53 27, 2013 and six-yearEven her mother-in-law,5K • MERR 68-year-old three marathons in asked . on the ITT NEW far behind e, 82, took completing weeks ago. When in SPAPERS Bernice Asseltin Country Run. it was days just two es to run so much e race at the her first 5K and Helen time, Oborn how he manag r,” “This was period of it while doing it togethewith her do such a short race “You gotta our first time running the answered, young,” said about you’re young.to tomorrow, I’m daughter.

“Relative Herald.

3 he told the relatively young runner y Run’ Page See ‘Countr Another the half-marathon in from r to take part -old Bruce Butche was 78-year The

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t R Reform Ac defends NC victims’ rights rcie rClvicartimkes says Bill C-54 protects Familyr ofoftripDa le murde

Country Run the Merritt in the 5K at erald of runners leads a pack as Ontario. Ian Webster/H Calvin Little far away Seven-year-old of life and from as THE RACESnts from all walks OFF TO participa races attracted

on Sunday.

disorders, with mental than those becomes the statement says. Review Board assent and B.C. gets royal In 2011, the born escorted visits . ing, it s the Schoen the Port r-old Cordon law. bill that remind boards granted community from and five-yea worked where “This is a review old Max, into the psychiatric facility ion Galt have n provincial all Clarke and courts and matter. In fact, it is of victims Coquitlam held. That permiss Minister Stephe we – the families– have been asking with Prime that victimsa reminder that victims General Rob e he was being after opposition from , Attorney than criminally an Heritag lly soon be revoked who said she was Wessel across Canada Harper not more was hopefu Canadi Emily found than By and it will D the bill for: people get better supports - Nicholson matter — statement says.

Clarke’s family, Moore on THE HERAL d.com the the transfer merrittheral responsible ly in place; the commu Minister Jamesyears. They say the law,” also addresses imballiving nearby. newsroom@ request to five protecThe bill surrounding are current Schoenborn’sfacility in Selkirk, for nearly bring victims’ rights rs of a womanby receives the legislation ed Family membe nity as a whole [s]; and the famia psychiatric ed by the B.C. changes will with those of people ances in the not criminally responwere murder are legal to ible. more time in 2008 whose children ry, but has tions [it] deserve those found g that there is no the Man. was approv lly respons readfinally get released into balance Februa in Merritt of the Not in crimina victims of famifather not nt t their lies of found sible, includinnotify members its second Review Board out. Clarke’s a stateme in suppor r to The bill passedof Commons late speaking upResponsible Reform to heal,” reads her cousin, Stacy obligation if a high-risk offendeand yet to be carriedmove as well, saying weband House to s that area.

Criminally

by Clarke victims’ advocacy ing in the with a vote of 242 a community ly oppose from a facility, in the Selkirk or escapes ing those with Act. Galt, on the.ca. last month now be reviewed by change the not leavesMARCH she has family classify MADN will found found The act would d on before differently site 4darcie ESS sThe treating and historie born was reason 34 and for those Merritt Seconda and reporte Allan Schoen ible by release reviews ible from annual committee ry School lengthy violent . lly respons the murrespons class of 2013 G third readcriminally hearings every three not crimina its third reading hit the streets basses its disorder for s children, IN HOMES If the bill hearings to Darcie Clarke’s family of mental ST for their grand march G FEATURE and Clarke’ eight-yearLI imbalhis which down Voght an of IN years, ders Street on Kaitlynne, say will correct Friday for G NEW LIST members current review system.

10-year-old commencement.

IN what Full story EW ST ance in the being proposed is By on page 3, LIMicha el Potesti N more photos “What is o THE in section It was Financ B. Emily Wessel/H NEW reporter@mHERAL rancher D bed, 2 bth w/addierrittherald erald ial nice, 2 Manager .com shop Pat SibilleaService••s Very detached Fort 32x18 McMurray.water Merritlate ½ Duplex u’s , last tions t city The City trees, w/ fruit s including • Immacu “It’s of Merrit before she counci l meeting• 51 acres a newmore! down two Kane Valley Road and much t is • Many upgrade adventM3957 & paint. moves She said it’s nothin feature onmanag log home ac ure; to a new positioÁooring cul-de-s 1.6 acres ers and g •will • siding, n on against quiet will be a the job there in be bedroom Alberta 3 workin & in any way,” Merrit off -grid level, tank busy one. . M3954 g throug •a 3staff • Located After two with a counci & Privacy, s to H/W said Sibillea t h “I’ll be shortag years “I had • Seclusion • Upgrade l is quite of the summe e for mostM3953 City of Merritt, with the I think a great run here, u. time, what doing there, full- rewarding,” Sibillea Merritt more! living -6184 Sibilleau 9 kms from is moving 250-378 r, Chief “Pat’s given I do off I’ve more Admin Fax: acres, u said.

• At contrib and 20 of • the 1B8 a corner my desk Creek istrative to some productivity us some real fencing, BC V1K an opport on to pursue M3832 Matt cil gave hermeeting, counsuccess uted • All new Merritt, with a laugh.here,” she said Noble saidOfficer administratio es of the na Ave., and she’s improvements Buffalo. unity in Wood applause a round of after a regular counci There, she 1988 Quilche Sibilleau when discuss but an opportn and counci time here,”invested a lot of the manag l meeting will be said her l, Tuesday. she depart ing proud of unity Noble said. on plannin er of financi up that I the good is most Mayor ure. Merritt “That said, couldn’t came al g for ship she’s relationSusan Roline down as turn she has an opportunity municipality, the regional established thanked an council during that’s with Sibilleau which include for my careeradvancement hard work for all the fit into her long-ra going to her time Merritt. so I’m on s way in nge plans north.” my the city. she has done for and certainly “To be we couldn compete NOW NO N OOW W BLEND ’t BLEN BL Noble with that, LLEEN that kind able to establish M E ENDI ENDI DIING DING NGG can do is of relation so all we departure said Sibilleau’s Independe R R I T really ntly owned ship T leaves a as she’s suppor support her and operated to fill. big hole ted us.”

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