June 30 - 2022 by Merritt Herald

MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, June 30, 2022 •

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HALL OF HONOUR

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FREE

FIRE PROTECTION

A Brief History of Music in the Nicola Valley is a new display at the Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour. -

TNRD announced that they have suspended fire protection services in Lower Nicola. -

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INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY

CNA organized an Indigenous Day celebration at Rotary Park on June 21. Story/Page 3

CEN TURY 21

Moving Real Estate

1590 CHESTNUT AVENUE

1630 CHESTNUT AVENUE

New 3 bedrm rancher with 9 ft ceilings, open design, large kitchen island & Quartz countertops. Master bedrm has vaulted ceilings, 5 pce ensuite & window seat. Large covered deck in back yard. Double garage.

New 3 bedrm 3 bath home with open design, 9 ft ceilings, large kitchen island and Quartz countertops. HW on demand system. Master bedrm has window seat & 5 pce ensuite. Large 6 ft crawl space for storage. New Home Warranty.

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MLS#165990

$749,900

MLS#165992

$759,900

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts providing you with the highest level of care. 250.378.6941 https://legacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 21-2776 Clapperton Avenue

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1698 Douglas Street

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6528 Waterside Trail

ICE R P NEW

NEW MLS#168279

Karen Bonneteau PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

$139,000

Looking for affordable living or a great investment property – here it is! This lovely 3 bdrm home has been owned and occupied by the same owner since new. This immaculate, well-kept home features many new upgrades including a new high efficiency natural gas furnace with central a/c, new hot water tank, new flooring, paint, complete plumbing upgrade and faucet replacement and full electrical inspection.

437 Woodward Avenue

MLS#166631

$265,000

Investors, first time home buyers take note of this 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom family home with no strata fees. The 3 level homes features: kitchen, dining and living room as well as 2 piece bathroom on the main floor. The second level features 3 bedrooms, a full 4 piece bathroom and storage area. The basement includes laundry area, a family/rec room, lots of storage

6-1749 Menzies Street

250-280-0994

250-280-0835

2488 Spring Bank Avenue

Jordyn Chenier REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

250-280-2353

2526 Quilchena Avenue

NEW SL12-MLS#164854-$275,000 SL10-MLS#164853-$280,000 SL13-MLS#164852-$280,000

MLS#168264

$325,000

MLS#167456

$389,000

Welcome to Waterside Trail – a new bare land waterfront strata community in the beautiful Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake, one of BC’s premiere locations.

Incredible oversized .70 of an acre lot. Don’t miss out on building your dream home in one of the best neighborhoods in The Nicola Valley! This lot offers great building potential, close to shopping amenities and is overlooking the Nicola River giving you endless mountain/river views.

Investors, first time buyers take note! Lots of potential to bring your own ideas to this 2 bedroom 1 bathroom home. The roof is approximately 5 years old, furnace approximately 4 years old and hot water tank replaced 2 years ago. Unfinished basement to create your own area with the laundry downstairs. Fully fenced yard and alley access, with lots of room for gardening and storage!

1876 Granite Avenue

2225 Merritt Avenue

6-2502 Spring Bank Avenue

NEW MLS#168116

$439,000

MLS#168049

$443,900

MLS#167059

$549,000

Cute and Cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home with a large detached garage/shop located in the desired Lower Nicola area, just minutes from downtown Merritt. The lot is fully fenced with new gate, 8 X 12 storage shed with concrete floor, large detached 26 X 24 detached shop/garage, insulated and wired, a great chicken coop with run.

This townhouse demands attention!!! Unique 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2 car townhouse located in popular Sun Valley Court Development. Open concept living w/vaulted ceilings in living room, dining room & kitchen on main with french doors to fenced backyard. Access to garage, storage & crawl space, & powder room on ground level. Strata includes yard maintenance, lots of storage space.

Solid built family home 3 + 1 bedrms, 2 bath. Attached garage. Walking distance to shopping, banking, medical & recreation. Lots of cabinets in the bright sunny kitchen and plenty of storage throughout the home. Lovely gas fireplace up and wood insert downstairs. Fenced level .2 acre property with great shop and alley access.

2264 Coutlee Avenue

2064 Castillou Crescent

2500 Reid Court

NEW

NEW MLS#168377

$599,000

MLS#168350

NEW $599,000

MLS#168311

MLS#167909

$569,000

MLS#168366

$599,000

Welcome to this lovely home with a newly added in-law suite, don’t miss out! Great location, walking distance to all downtown amenities, move-in ready freshly updated home, large oversized landscaped yard for your pets and kids to run around and watch from the concrete patio!

3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, low maintenance townhouse move in ready! Home features updated flooring, baseboards & paint on main level, new hot water tank in 2018, some light switches compatible with Alexa/Google. Main floor features open concept design w/large kitchen and eating bar, granite counter tops, SS appliances, smart dual oven, touch tap, all open to dining and living room which also features a cozy gas fireplace.

3039 Hilton Drive

2113 Parker Drive

SOLD $679,000

MLS#166147

$699,000

Good Revenue Property with tenants in place both up and down. Interior of home has been completely renovated with new kitchens, counter tops, backsplash, bathrooms, flooring, paint and light fixtures. Home upstairs features 4 bedrooms, a large kitchen open to the dining room and family room. Downstairs is a 2 bedroom in-law suite which also has had a new kitchen, bathroom, flooring, paint and light fixtures.

Cute little Bungalow house in excellent Bench location. This home has 3 bedrooms up and 1 down. Main floor features a large living room and dining room with an office/den adjacent to the dining room. Basement has a large recreation room, workshop area, 3 pce bath and large laundry room. Exterior of the home has been freshly painted and sits on a large .27 acre, fully fenced, private lot which has been tastefully landscaped.

Custom-built rancher w/ walk-out basement -1 of 8 homes in private cul-desac in desired Merritt bench. Over 150 sq. ft. of raised gardens in the back yard. Features: soaring ceilings, updated kitchen w/ quartz countertops, built-in cabinetry, double pane windows & brand-new cooktop. Semi-covered balcony is perfect to enjoy your morning cup of coffee while listening to the songbirds.

Stunning home in one of the best locations in town. This immaculate rancher has been beautifully crafted and finished. Gorgeous hardwood floors, deep crown moldings and 10’ high ceilings lead you into the open concept kitchen, dining, living room area. Mountain views from the expansive patio windows that lead onto the covered Trex decking with gas BBQ hookup and completely fenced back yard.

2051 Castillou Crescent

1560 Chestnut Avenue

2401 Reid Avenue

2151 Munro Crescent

MLS#167788

$699,000

GARDENER’S Dream ON THE BENCH in Merritt. 3 bedroom + den lovely family home in established residential neighbourhood. Close to desired Bench Elementary school. 11 x 32 Workshop in back of home for the hobby enthusiast, fenced yard, quiet patio for your morning coffee just off the dining rm, 2 greenhouses, 2 storage sheds, and much more.

3338 Grimmet Street

NEW MLS#168257

$699,000

TASTEFULLY UPDATED 3 bed, 2 bath home. Lovely white kitchen, natural gas f/p in living rm, generous family room with wood stove, new ensuite. Enjoy your quiet moments in the serene sunroom just off the primary bedroom looking out back to a beautiful, wooded area. This .22 acre property backs on to Mountain Dr. with driveway access from front or back of yard with room to build a shop.

322 Winney Avenue

SOLD MLS#167282

$879,000

Location, location, location! First time on the market! Absolutely stunning Lower Nicola property on a gorgeous end of cul de sac lot! 2.5 acres, 2188 sq ft home, completely landscaped with 4 wells, barn, shed, shop/carport, chicken coops, grape vines, fruit trees including plum, apple, apricot very private with no drive by traffic and completely fenced, with CR-1 Zoning, you can bring your horses!

MLS#167306

$729,000

MLS#167252

$769,900

MLS#167578

$775,000

West Coast Contemporary Rancher style home in quiet neighborhood. This home features clean lines with a crisp modern feel. Home has large kitchen with acrylic cabinetry, soft close hardware, large center island and stainless steel appliances. Open concept design features 9 ft ceilings, gas f/p, laminate flooring w/custom tilework, quartz counter tops throughout.

Very nice 5 bed 3 bath home w/lrg inground pool located in bench area, close to elementary school, recreation & shopping. The home sits on 9000 sq ft yard w/mature landscaping, great inground pool w/water slide, covered deck, firepit, storage shed, fenced yard, lots of parking & add R.V. parking on side of the home.

Custom 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 3 car garage home located on a quiet street in the desired bench area of Merritt. Additional features include: custom wood windows and blinds, 3 high end gas fireplaces, central vacuum, lots of cabinets in the kitchen as well as an eating bar to enjoy and across the street from a City Park and Elementary School. The 3-car garage offers lots of room for your cars, toys and more.

3445 D’Easum Road

2209 Harris Road

6441 Jagpal Way

MLS#168059

$799,000

Immaculate fully renovated home on the Bench. This bright and airy turn-key house offers open concept main space, gas fireplace in the living room, stunning new kitchen that is equipped with soft close drawers, quartz counters and a beautiful gas range. A mechanics dream awaits you in the back yard with a 24X36 heated detached shop.

100 Golden Quill Trail

ICE R P NEW MLS#167020

$950,000

26 acres in the Petit Creek area close to crown land and gorgeous views of the valley. 4 bedroom manufactured home on a full walkout basement. On the property you have a 24x23 garage and a separate 34x25 workshop with 200 amp main. Great place for someone with all the toys.

MLS#167992

$985,000

Beautiful 3500 sq ft home on 2.34 acres bordering the Nicola River w/3 separate titles. Rip Rapped in 2022. Home has been carefully constructed w/energy efficiency in mind. Home is situated on a knoll- foundation being reinforced cement poured into Styrofoam forms & treated w/waterproof application & sealed w/film. Home features 1750 sq ft up & down, two large upper/lower decks surfaced w/ FlexStone decking & exposed aggregate.

MLS#165831

$989,000

BREATHTAKING VIEWS of beautiful Nicola Lake! Your retreat within just 2-3 hours of the Lower Mainland. Come away to this lovely 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with a 2 car 20’ x 30’ garage/shop. Time to indulge yourself: bright kitchen with warm dark maple cabinets, granite countertop island and heated floors. Garden doors lead out to upper BBQ deck overlooking the lake. Great room featuring a cozy wood fireplace and oak hardwood flooring.

MLS#166667

$1,600,000

LAKEFRONT HOME on spectacular Stump Lake! 2.72 virtually flat acres with approx 150 ft of shoreline. A place to gather with family & friends to savour the moments this lakeside property has to offer. Renowned for wind surfing, water skiing, & amazing fishing, stocked with Kokanee and Rainbow trout. Launch your boat right from your property. Enjoy winter pond hockey, ice fishing and cross-country skiing!

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Indigenous Peoples Day at Rotary Park

INSIDE THE HERALD Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports -------------------18-19 Classifieds -----------21-22

WEATHER Jun. 30: Partly Cloudy 25°/8°C Jul. 1: 50% Rain 26°/11°C Jul. 2: 60% Thunder 28°/11°C Jul. 3: 60% Thunder 23°/13°C Jul. 4: 60% Rain 20°/12°C Jul. 5: 50% Rain 23°/11°C

Online A plethora of students, daycares, and community members tour Rotary Park and engage in various cultural activities during the Indigenous Peoples Day celebration. Photo/Izaiah Reyes

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Community members crowded Rotary Park for the first time in three years to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, marking a return to ‘normal’ for yet another beloved Merritt event. Warm weather and blue skies greeted participants for a day of culture and fun. Hosted by Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA), an Indigenous community organization made up of eight local First Nations, in collaboration with

other community organizations, the event drew an estimated 700 attendees throughout the day of activities. Organizers say response from Merrittonians was overwhelmingly positive, with those of all ages and backgrounds gathering to join in on the celebration. “There were so many in attendance, and looking around there were just a lot of smiles. I hope everybody enjoyed the day as much as I did,” said Virginia Aspinall, programs coordinator with CNA. “Everybody was just really happy to get together. This was our first celebration for Indigenous Peoples Day since 2019. It was really nice to get out and celebrate together.” Those attending the event were treated to not only gorgeous weather, but a wide variety of events and activities. Traditional hand drummers, powwow dancers, and elders sharing their stories and experiences engaged and entertained crowds. Attendees walked between a variety of ‘stations’ such as medicine kit and harvest bag making, face painting, and a selfie booth. Aspinall said the event was a great success for both CNA and other organizations who participated, adding that this year saw great engagement and information from vendors and local organizations. “We had some beautiful dancers, we had many stations with crafts set up, and

lots of information sharing from the different organizations.” National Aboriginal Day, now called National Indigenous Peoples Day since a name change in 2017, was first

merrittherald.com

PREMIER RESIGNS

British Columbia’s Premier and leader of the BC New Democratic Party (BC NDP), John Horgan, has announced he will not seek re-election, and will resign his post after an upcoming party leadership election to decide his successor.

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ARMED ROBBERY announced in 1996. It serves as a day for the recognition of Indigenous culture, heritage, and contributions in Canadian society. While celebrations have been mostly virtual during the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event at Rotary Park showed the community’s love of the event. “It went by in a flash for myself personally,” added Aspinall with a laugh, who said her favourite part of the day was seeing the smiles of those returning to an in-person celebration for the first time in years. For more information on CNA and their community initiatives, call 250-3781864, or visit www.cna-trust.ca.

Two armed robbery suspects, accused of robbing a gas station in the 2300 block of Nicola Avenue and assaulting the clerk, have been identified and apprehended by Merritt RCMP Frontline Officers.

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

All Council meetings are open to the public, unless closed by law. For your convenience, all meetings are streamed online at www.merritt.ca

Tuesday, July 19, 2022, 6pm at City Hall: Regular Council Meeting

EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Appointments are encouraged to ensure availability, please call 250-378-4224 or see the front counter.

Programs like swimming lessons, summer camps, lifeguarding and safety courses are all available online! There are many great options to choose from this summer. Our online Activity Guide provides more details about each program. Check it out: app.bookking.ca/merrittpub/courses/index.asp

7:00 am - 11:00 am: Pancake breakfast, joined by the Knights of Columbus. AT ROTARY PARK: 11:00 am - kids fun zone, bouncy train castle, Canadian trivia, and activities with the arts council. 12:00 pm - Royal Canadian Legion Flag ceremony, singing of the national anthem, speeches, and cupcakes. 1:00 pm - Games with Q-101. 3:00 pm - Performance from The Doug James Band!

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Summer Student (Public Works) Lifeguard Instructor II (full-time) Cashier (casual)

For more information visit: www.merritt.ca

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Fire protection in Lower Nicola suspended

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.

Merritt Library Summer Reading Club Events!

Tuesdays 10:30-11am Ages 6-9

The TNRD has determined the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) Fire Department does not have the capacity to respond outside their community. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM The Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) announced on June 23 that, effective immediately, they have suspended fire protection services in the Lower Nicola area until further notice. The announcement comes via a press release, which states that exterior structural fire protection services for the properties impacted were provided, up until this point, through a contract with the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB). The TNRD has determined that at this time, the contract is not feasible for the department or the regional district. “Fire protection services for impacted properties has been previously provided through a contract with the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB),” said Jamie Vieira, deputy general manager of operations. “At this time, it has been determined that the LNIB Fire Department does not have the capacity to respond to fire calls outside of their own community.” The impacted service areas are properties in TNRD Electoral Areas ‘M’ (Beautiful

Nicola Valley – North) and ‘N’ (Beautiful Nicola Valley – South) which include parts of: Lower Nicola Miller Estates Canford Petit Creek Road Cummings Road Jack Swartz Forest Service Road The TNRD says it is assessing options to resume fire protection services in compliance with Province of BC guidelines, and regrets the need to suspend these services. The regional district has provided notice by mail to all affected properties, and adds that property owners should receive these notices in the coming days. Those with an emergency should continue to dial 9-1-1, with BC Ambulance and RCMP continuing to respond to emergencies in affected areas. BC Wildfire will also continue to respond to wildfires in the area. To report a wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555, or *5555from a cell phone. Those with questions should contact the TNRD at 250-377-8673, or fireprotectionservices@tnrd.ca.

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Fridays 1-1:45pm Ages 13-14

Saturdays 10:30-11am Family Storytime

Re-Loadable Eco-Cards Now Available How to set up your Eco-Card; • speak with the attendant • OR ﬁll out the form at tnrd.ca/ecocard • OR call the TNRD at (250) 377-2596 • Once registered check your email for invitation from ecoinfo@tnrd.ca Program Details; • Available for residents and businesses • One-time welcome credit of $10 • Replaces the $10, $20, $50 punch Eco-Cards • Top up at any Eco-Depot, at the TNRD Main Oﬃce or with our new customer portal: app.tnrd.ca

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COME IN TO SEE OUR NEW PRODUCTS! Great Gift Ideas • Gas & Diesel • Snacks • Novelty & Gift Items • Cold Drinks • Ice • Photo Copying• Faxing • Lotto Centre Monday - Friday: 6 am - 9 pm • Weekends & Holidays: 7 am - 9 pm

PIZZA & SUB SHOP: PIZZA, Pizza Orders: 250-315-0087

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Store: 250-378-9557 #154 Hwy 8, Merritt

66A6 •• THURSDAY, January 2022 THURSDAY, June 30,6, 2022 THURSDAY, January 6, 2022

EDITORIAL

VIEWPOINT

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Happy Canada Day Tomorrow is Canada day and I took some time to reflect on what I think it means to be Canadian. IZAIAH REYES At a glance, HERALD things like EDITOR hockey, Tim Hortons, saying “eh”, and being nice and apologetic come to mind when thinking of Canadians. However, upon deeper inspection, I think there is a deep sense of community that ties Canadians together. I notice that we as citizens, are quick to jump in to help our neighbours. Working here in Merritt, I have seen more volunteer initiatives, non profit organizations, appreciation events that any Joe Schmoe would see in their entire lifetime. Helping is infectious and every time I come across a good cause, it makes me want to help out too! I credit this to Canada. We love helping and showing love and appreciation to others. I learned about the term ‘multiculturalism’ back in high school. It is used to describe Canada’s approach to accepting people of different backgrounds. We are encouraged in Canada to observe many different cultures. Just this month alone, we observed Indigenous Peoples Day and Filipino Heritage Month. Speaking of Filipino, Mishaal, a close friend of mine, told me that his long time and long distance girlfriend turned fiance, Allyza finally completed the immigration application process. She is flying out to Calgary in July. I know that he is ecstatic about this development. Not only will they be together again, but they will now, also, get a chance to start a life with the many great opportunities that Canada has to offer.

Jojo Dickson, Grade 12

A CALL FOR STUDENT ART: Students, parents, and teachers, send your student art to newsroom@merrittherald.com Students, parents, and teachers: for a chance to be featured in print each week! (First come, Submit your student art to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured each first serve basis.) week! Submissions are printed on a first come, first served basis.

Publisher Publisher Publisher Theresa Arnold Theresa Theresa ArnoldArnold publisher@merrittherald.com publisher@merrittherald.com publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241 250-378-4241 250-378-4241

MERRITT HERALD

Editor EditorEditor Jake Izaiah Reyes Jake Courtepatte Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com newsroom@merrittherald.com newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241 250-378-4241 250-378-4241

Reporter Reporter Morgan Reporter Morgan Hampton Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com Marius Auer reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241 reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241 250-378-4241

Sales Sales Representative Representative Office Office Administrator Administrator Ken Ken Couture Couture kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com 250-378-4241 250-378-4241 Making Making Advertising Advertising Work Work For For You. You.

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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. 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.

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 This(250) Merritt378-4241. Herald is Ifa you member the National Newsmedia Council, an independent to deal with acceptable journalistic practices andfor ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call are notofsatisfied with the response and wishwhich to file is a formal complaint,organization visit the web established site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 additional information. 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.

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

OPINION

Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com

Grazing for the Greater Good

From the Herald archives: June, 1984

Cattle graze around communities in BC to reduce wildfire risk

Arial shot of cattle performing targeted grazing. Photo/Columbia Basin Trust

Lynsay Beavers Contributed Nowhere in Canada have wildfires been – or have the potential to continue to be – quite as catastrophic in both human and economic toll as the interior of British Columbia. Mike Pritchard has seen the evolution of the Okanagan landscape and its wildfires first-hand. Growing up he spent his days on horseback on mountainous rangeland around Kelowna, where his ranching family had tenure to graze their cattle. Today some of Kelowna’s highest-end housing developments are nestled on the same slopes. During a 30-year career with BC Wildfire Services, Mike led fuel management initiatives and fought fires throughout the Okanagan, while maintaining a small ranch on the side. Presently, in what he calls ‘retirement’, Mike works as a Project Coordinator for the British Columbia Cattlemen’s Association (BCCA), marrying his experience by reducing wildfire risk with a littleknown tool – cattle. “Ranchers and those with wildfire experience have known for years that grazed areas can slow

or turn a fire,” said Pritchard, “but we needed to be able to prove this.” An initiative led by the BCCA set out to put science to these claims. The association brought together municipalities, researchers and ranchers to collaborate on a series of targeted grazing pilot projects in areas at high-risk for wildfires like Kelowna, Cranbrook and Summerland. Fuel management, then and now Over the past 20 years, the primary fuel management strategy in BC has been the thinning of dense conifer stands. According to Pritchard, “thinning conifers without follow up maintenance of grass essentially just traded one fuel type for another.” Other fuel management strategies like controlled burns don’t work well close to urban settings. The practice is logistically difficult to carry out and there is always the inherent risk of unintended fire spread. Targeted grazing – or turning out cattle for two to three weeks in an area needing fuel management -works where other common techniques do not. Grazed grass is far less likely to burn. “Think of your lawn,” explains Pritchard, “if you don’t mow it, the grass will grow, dry out and go to seed. Mowing it encourages regrowth and keeps it in a vegetative state.” Intense, short-term grazing mimics the natural disturbance of traditional grazers with which the land evolved. Targeted grazing will not prevent a forest fire; it reduces the risk of a fire starting. If one does start, the grazed fuel break provides the opportunity for firefighters to bring the fire under control before it becomes a dangerous crown fire where the entire length of the tree burns. Fire fuels community spirit in ranchers Ranchers Keith and Marnie Manders were impacted by fire two years in a row. “My wife woke up at four o’clock in the morning and saw flames coming down the mountain. You can imagine how we felt,” divulged Keith. That night, the Manders experienced the dangerous combination of fire and the diurnal effect firsthand. They were lucky the structures on their property were spared thanks to Keith’s recent decision to graze right up to the edges of their property as that distressing fire season wore on. The Manders’ cattle made it to safety, but the family lost a significant amount of their spring grazing rangeland to fire. When Keith learned about the targeted grazing pilot projects, he was

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2052 Quilchena Ave.

250-378-6292

all hands – and hooves – on deck, offering his grazing leases and cattle near Summerland and Peachland. “It feels so good to be involved in something positive for the community and show that we can play a role in keeping its members safe,” stated Keith. Managing cattle so close to an urban area meant an extra workload for Keith. His personal cellphone number was displayed on signage around the community so people could call if they had questions or concerns about the cattle. The pilot projects saw cattle grazing right up to backyard fences of homes, the periphery of golf courses and borders around vineyards, all to reduce fire risk. “People noticed the buffers grazing created,” stated Keith, “once you show people, they’re fully on board; it was the consultation process and creating awareness and buy-in ahead of grazing that was a challenge.” The ‘when’ not ‘if ’ of fire in BC Over the past 10 years, BC has experienced several record-breaking fire seasons. Together, fires in 2017 and 2018 released three times more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than from all the province’s fossil fuel burning sources combined. As the occurrence and magnitude of wildfires have grown, the human and economic tolls have followed. The price of fires is one largely borne by urban centres and their residents. While the government of BC continues to invest huge sums of money into wildfire mitigation, it’s clear that a diverse array of strategies is needed, and that targeted grazing should be included among them. There is tremendous potential to replicate this mitigation strategy in other parts of the province. Around the 120 km length of Lake Okanagan alone, there are wildland areas in dire need of fine fuel management and brimming with urban interface areas. With fencing, access to water and a champion to lead local initiatives, cattle can graze nearly anywhere there’s grass. Similar targeted grazing initiatives in Montana have even received investment from insurance companies, which have an inherent interest in reducing fire damage to homes. To move targeted grazing from a pilot project to routine practice in BC, more of such support is needed. Targeted grazing is a strategy that makes sense. It protects forest infrastructure and ecology; it supports local food production; it also contributes to the protection of life and communities.

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TRUCK ROUTE REJECTED City Council rejected Arrow Transportation Systems’ request to use Priest Avenue , instead of Houston Street as a trucking route from the Weyerhaeuser Mill to Kamloops. Ron Johnson from Arrow, said that there’s high probability of accidents in making a right hand turn from Nicola Avenue’ onto Voght Street. Council felt that approving the change would only move the problem.

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

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

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Thank You!

On behalf of the Board of Education of School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen), we would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the many partners, organizations and individuals who helped our students, families, staff, and District during the extremely challenging events of the 2021/2022 school year. Throughout it all we persevered, provided education and support, and continued to offer a safe and welcoming place for kids during a time of great difﬁculty for so many. That could not have happened without the help and generosity of our friends, neighbors, colleagues, and communities. For that we owe so many of you a true debt of gratitude. You have made all the difference in the world to kids and families.

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Hall of Honour features new Nicola Valley display

The new display at the Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour will be up all summer, and offers a view of Merritt’s creative and artistic history. Marius Auer/Herald

Lower Nicola Indian Band

Nicola Valley is a new display at

ANASTASIA BASIL-DAN

the Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour on Quilchena Avenue, with two

members residing in town. The new History of Music display not only highlights the instruments that were used to create the music, but the locations, people, and stories behind it. “We want to bring an attachment again to the hall. We don’t have any inductees that are from here, but a lot of them have connections to Merritt through family.” While the driving force behind the new display is the promotion and awareness of

community organizations coming together to support each other, as well as art and his-

May your future be bri righ ighht and proospperous

Accounting Certicate

EMMA JOE

MAKENNA SHUTER

Masters in

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ANNA BROWN

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SUNSHINE O’DONOVAN

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music’s impact on the Valley’s history, the organizations hope to support each other by promoting themselves together through new initiatives. This is the second time the two organizations have worked together, organizing a Remembrance Day display last fall at the Hall of Honour. “We want to help other groups that don’t have a downtown presence, like the museum. A lot of people have a hard time even

Fluency

See HISTORY Page 11

SHAWNA HARRIS

Indigenous Human Services

SHAELAN WILLSON Access to Practical Nursing

LISA LEVESQUE

DYLAN WEBSTER

JOEY ISSAC High School

PHILLIP SWAKUM

Business

High School

Graduate

High School

Administration

Graduate

SARA GARCIA: Ofce Administration, ANDREA SHINTAH: NLEK Language Fluency HALEY LUPICHUCK: Health Care Assistant LUCUS JACKSON: Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Lower Nicola Indian Band

WILLIAM SANDY

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PHOTOS NOT AVAILABLE

1912 is CSCMH Director Susan Roline’s favourite piece. “Because I’m partial to fiddles, I like the fiddle piece. I know the Hogg family very well. When I was growing up we were neighbours to one of the Hogg families,” said Roline. Roline says it’s these community connections that make the Hall of Honour and its displays so interesting and attractive to locals and visitors alike, with hall inductees such as Dick Damron and Lucille Star even having family

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM A Brief History of Music in the

tory in the community. The new display boasts a small but carefully curated collection of local artifacts all related to music produced, written, and enjoyed in the Nicola Valley throughout history. This is a joint collaborative effort between the Canadian Society of Country Music and Heritage (CSCMH) and the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives (NVMA). A fiddle belonging to a local miner killed in the Diamondvale Mine explosion of

Graduate

TIARRA STERLING: Access to Practical Nursing LINDSEY HEIDRICK: Professional Counsellor Program TARYNN BOSE: Access to Practical Nursing SARA FRAZIER SHUTER: ENRT Program

Phone: 250-378-5157

PAIGE COUTLEE: Bachelor of Science Nursing CHERRY SMILEY: PhD in Education KRISTINE MIKE: High School Graduate KAI MULLER: High School Graduate LOUISE PETERSON: High School Graduate

181 Nawishaskin Lane, Merritt, BC, VIK 0A7

A10

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

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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. C1 zoning with possible change to C2. Diking has recently been done

#3264

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1320 VOGHT STREET

1750 BLAIR STREET

SL. 5, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

SL.28, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

Cozy 3 bedrooom rancher close to shopping & schools. Private covered deck off master bedrm. Huge fenced backyard. Includes appliances & window coverings. 12x32 detached garage/shop.

Great investment property. 2 bedrm rancher with some upgrades in past few years. 2019 like new shingles, upgraded plumbing & HW tank. Comes with all appliances. Tenanted with xed term to June 2023.

Development opportunity of a 0.4 acre lot. Sellers have preliminary drawings for 7 units of 2 bedrm 2 bath, 2 car garage townhomes. Lots is across street from Central Elementary School, park & river trail. Close to downtown core.

Great investment property. House with basement suite with 3 bedrooms up and 2 down, close to shopping. Both units currently rented. Has detached shop & carport. Tenants pay their own hydro.

Build your dream home or rec. home in this strata development at Nicola Lake. Great views & access to the water. All services to the property line. GST is applicable. Developers Disclosure available.

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1613 CANFORD AVENUE

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Spacious 3000+ sq.ft executive home with 3 bedrms up, 1 down plus 2 bedrooms suite on main level. Spiral staircase, huge open kitchen/dining room. Covered sundeck for BBQ’s. Full unn. Bsmt for storage. Great home for large family or investment.

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Great investment or starter home with 3 bedrooms up and a 3 bedroom secondary suite down. Fully rented up & down. Has had some upgrades over the years. Fenced back yard.

Build your dream home or rec. home in this strata development at Nicola Lake. Great views & access to the water. All services to the property line. GST is applicable. Developers Disclosure available.

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The McGoran Homestead, circa 1910. Full renovated over the years on a 17,640 sq.ft. lot within walking distance to all amenities. This heritage home features 3 bedrms, 3 baths, roomy kitchen with island opens to dining room & private living room. Has 1 bedrm suite above bachelor suite/ofce attached to garage/shop. Large yard with gazebo, 2 driveways, fruit trees.

Spectacular Nicola Lake view home on 1.05 acres. Beautiful open concept rancher with a walkout bsmt & quality features throughout. 2 bedrms up 2 down, gourmet kitchen, master bedrm with 5 pce ensuite. Large covered deck on the main, perfect for those BBQ’s. Has raised garden beds & fruit trees. Had 2 car detached garage & RV parking.

One of a kind unique 96 +/- acre riverfront ranch, 18 km west of Merritt. Features 2 homes and many outbuildings and hay elds. Fantastic panoramic views of mountains, elds & winding Nicola River. This could be a great equestrian setup. Currently produces 2-3 cuts of hay per year. Has 2 high producing wells.

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

A11

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

‘A Brief History of Music in the Nicola Valley’ From Page 9 finding the museum. I don’t think enough people are aware.” Recent changes at the CSCMH saw the Hall of Fame replace its name with the Hall of Honour title, losing the

official designation to a new site in Calgary, Alberta. Roline said the transition was only a slight inconvenience, and the organization is looking forward to an exciting future of music based programming and community initia-

tives. “We’re trying to do live music events quarterly. We’ve been holding the songwriter sessions, and I guess a lot of people don’t understand what that is exactly, a lot of them thought it was just for song-

writers.” “It’s an audience listening to how and why a song came about by the person who wrote it. After two hours, it’s an open jamming session,” clarified Roline. The Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour

is located at 2025B Quilchena Avenue, and can be reached at 250-378-9569. The Nicola Valley Museum and Archives is located at 1675 Tutill Court, and can be reached at 250378-4145.

MERRITT CENTENNIALS

AGM & ELECTION OF DIRECTORS Monday, July 11, 2022 7:00 pm at the Nicola Valley Arena Mezzanine

EVERYONE WELCOME & ENCOURAGED TO COME!

A12

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Mayor Brown runs for re-election

Linda Brown is currently holding her first term as Mayor and has previously held a seat on council in 2014. Photo/Herald File Photo

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Linda Brown, the current mayor for the City of Merritt, has announced that she will once again be running for this position in the upcoming municipal elections later in October. “I’m announcing because it was announced that I’m not running,” Brown explained. “I’m hoping to leave campaigning until the start of the campaigning period.” A recent story on Brown’s husband, Ken Gillis has mistakenly mentioned that she does not intend to run for mayor. In order to correct this error, Brown has prematurely thrown her hat in the ring. “At this point all I can do is talk to people and tell them who I am and what I’m about.” “I will meet people at anytime, if someone wants to talk to me, I will be available for them but I will not be purposely going out for any public forums or debates until the campaign season.”

Currently serving her first term as mayor, Brown has also served a term as a council member in Merritt. “I want to continue woking on bringing the city back to a place of recovery,” said Brown. “I’m not finished with working towards that goal.” Brown began her mayoral term back in 2018. Through her four years as leader, she was thrust into one of the most turbulent times that Merritt has ever faced. “We’ve had COVID, we’ve had fires, heat domes, droughts, and atmospheric rivers,” she explained. Brown told the Herald that she is currently working on different projects, including housing, infrastructure repairs, and the city’s diking plan which will determine the city’s floodplain. “From there, people can basically draw a line whether or not you can build back there. If we have homes that are devastated in that area then we have to find another spot for them,” said Brown. “That whole river bank area needs to be looked at and changed and I really want to be a part of that.” Brown said that she is busy working on recovery all summer. She hopes that when that work is done, that she could take a look at the city’s economic development and tourism. “I want to develop this place, I want an industrial park where we can provide jobs,” she said. “I want to leave in good times, when things are better for the city.” Brown is one of two candidates to formally announce their candidacy for mayor. Earlier today, Councilor Tony Luck has announced that he will also be running for this seat. Elections are set to take place on October 15, 2022.

Luck throws hat in mayoral race

Tony Luck, incumbent Merritt city councillor and local realtor, has announced his intent to run for mayor during the October 2022 civic elections. Photo/Herald File Photo

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merrittonians will now have two names listed on their ballot as options

for the position of mayor this fall, with Councillor Tony Luck declaring he will run for the top spot at city hall during the October 15 elections. Luck will challenge incumbent Mayor Linda Brown and any other candidates that may put their name on the ballot in the roughly three and a half months leading up to the election. Brown announced her intention to run for re-election 24 hours prior. “After lots of contemplation, talking to quite a few people in town, and having phone calls and people asking me, I have made the tough decision to seek the seat of Mayor for the City of Merritt this election in October,” said Luck. In his conversations with locals, his

See TONY Page 15

South Central Interior Distance Education School

Principal Karen Goetz, the staff of SCIDES and the SCIDES PAC would like to congratulate…

2022 SCIDES GRADUATES • Benson, Hannah • Bergmann, Gideon* • Bjarnason, Mackenzie • Brook, William • Brown, Skylar • Carson, Fallon • Charlesworth, Matthew • Chen, Si • Christanson, Kyle • Currie, Dalia • De Sousa, Layla • Donaghy, Emilie • Doucet, Elise • Doyle, Breanna • Evans, Aidan*

• Evans, Ryan • Lo, Cassidy • Foster, Sophie • Loehndorf, Nikolaus • Gallant, Ethan • Lowe, Therisa • Grant, Jenaya • Lund-Schmidt, Martin • Gunderson, Shaydon • Marshal, Keera • Hayhurst, Teyah • Martin, Joel • Hug, Ethan • Mondor, Aiden • Hulka, Sean* • Morris, Mara • Jager, Sonny • Ottens, Kaylin • Jamison, John • Penner, Ruby • Johnson, Darin • Rempel-Price, Alex • Jugnauth, Tyson • Robinson, Caitlyn • Kang, Danit • Roy, Louis Bao Minh • Lampreau, Shyanne • Smith, Jasmine • Lavik, Megan *DENOTES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

SCIDES 2022 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS GOVERNOR-GENERALS AWARD (certificate and medal) 2020-21 (delayed award due to medal not being ready): Ashleigh Kruschel 2021-22: Aidan Evans

DISTRICT AUTHORITY SCHOLARSHIP ($1250) Gideon Bergmann Aidan Evans Sean Hulka Victoria McElroy

SCIDES PAC SCHOLARSHIPS ($750) Gideon Bergmann (Trades & Technology) Aidan Evans (Trades & Technology) Sean Hulka (Sciences)

NICOLA VALLEY PRINCIPALS’ & VICE-PRINCIPALS’ ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP ($500) Gideon Bergmann

NICOLA VALLEY HEALTHCARE AUXILIARY SCHOLARSHIP ($1000) Julia Smith

EDUCATORS FOR DISTRIBUTED LEARNING SCHOLARSHIP ($500) Sean Hulka

INTERIOR SAVINGS CREDIT UNION BURSARY ($1000) Sean Hulka

UBC PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS AWARD ($10,000) Sean Hulka

LEARN AT HOME. Visit our website for more information https://www.scides.org

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

A13

LNIB SCHOOL REGISTRATION

Lower Nicola Indian Band School

2022-2023

THE LOWER NICOLA BAND SCHOOL INVITES ALL CHILDREN (First Nations/Non First Nations) To Register for Kindergarten to Grade 7

“FREE” Daily

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM and SNACK PROGRAM PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT CLIMBING WALL BASKETBALL COURT SPINNER

• Full-time Kindergarten – must be 5 yrs by Dec 31, 2022 • Bus Services provided to all areas of Merritt.

HEAD START SERVICES: • 3 & 4 year old Program (K4 must be 4 yrs old by Dec. 31, 2022) • Parent & Tot Drop In • Home Visiting Program • Transportation provided for all Head Start programs • Mom’s & Tot’s Services 0 to 6 years old

CURRICULUM: • New BC Curriculum • Nle?kepmx • Cultural Studies • Field Trips • Learning Assistance Program • School supplies provided • SKATING/HOCKEY PROGRAM • Joyful Literacy

FACILITIES: • Full-Size Gymnasium • Library • Baseball/Soccer Field

FOR MORE INFORMATION Education Comes First

Lower Nicola Band School Ph: 250-378-5527 201 Horn Rd., Merritt, BC

ion Educat st Fir Comes

A14

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

MSS grads visit elementary schools

Merritt Secondary School’s class of 2022 walked through the halls of all six elementary schools in the area, where many graduates started their educational journeys. Photo/SD58

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM The Merritt Secondary School (MSS) class of 2022 took a trip down memory lane as part of their graduation processions last week, touring six elementary schools in the area. The MSS tradition is an initiative to not only celebrate the current graduating class, but motivate future graduates. Dressed in their caps and gowns, this year’s graduating class from MSS boarded a school bus to tour the elementary schools where

many graduates spent the first seven years of their educational careers. Students and staff at the elementary schools lined the hallways, cheering on graduates as they paraded through. “All the grads went to all the schools. The schools got all their kids out in the hallway with signs, posters, and drummers. Any kids who attended that particular school, we had a photo with that group and their princi-

ook

Landscaping Specialist

pal, and then we hopped on the bus and continued on to the next school,” said Gian Cavaliere, vice principal and athletics director for MSS. Cavaliere said the reception from both the elementary school students and staff was overwhelmingly positive, on track with previous years that the ‘grad walk’ has been put on. Although temporarily halted by the COVID-19 pandemic, graduates were excited to hit the road once again.

Merritt, they’ve gone to Merritt Secondary School, and the kids see it as a motivational piece. Some are kind of young, but it’s fun to cheer and know that it’s going to be their time eventually.” The MSS Class of 2022 graduated on June 16 at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, with the official last day of school for the district taking place on June 29.

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This year has been anything but ‘normal’ for MSS graduates, completing their final year in the public school system during fires, flooding, and a global pandemic. Cavaliere said he is beyond proud of the accomplishments and resiliency of the class of 2022, and the school as a whole. “We’ve been doing this for a few years now, and it’s really great to see. The kids get to see the graduates, and the students graduating get to see their old teachers. It’s an emotional time, so it’s always been positive.” Ending their tour at Merritt Secondary School with a warm reception from their fellow pupils, teachers, and faculty, this year’s graduating class is sure to feel celebrated for their achievements, academic and beyond. “I think a lot of kids see the graduates as role models. They may not know them, but they’re from

THANK YOU FOR RECYCLING THIS NEWSPAPER.

• Portfolio of Past Designs • Patios and Stone Work • Water Features

Call 250-378-4166

Tickets: Weekend pass - $125/pp - Camping $35/3 nights. Individual show tickets also available.

Tickets can be purchased online at: www.thecdnbluemoon.ca, Visitor Center in Merritt or by calling 250-300-0291

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

A15

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Tony Luck runs for city mayor From Page 12 family, and other community stakeholders, Luck says his unique and experienced perspective in multiple government positions enables him to better understand the needs of the community and its members. The first-term Merritt city councillor, who previously served as a city councillor in Mission, also works as a realtor and with multiple non-profit organizations in town. He says the issue of communication, or the lack thereof, has been consistently raised in his conversations. “I think there is a lot of angst in the community. One of the key pieces that we miss is the communication piece,” added Luck. “I’m going to come to the table with a much different leadership style, really working on the team process and getting more people involved.” Luck says that collaboration and cooperation are key when it comes to moving forward as a whole, both from the devastating year of fires and flooding behind us, and for growing the small community. Having experience with regional districts such as the Fraser Valley Regional District, as well as municipalities and higher levels of government, Luck says he is the man for the job and is prepared to work hard. “We have a lot of work to do in the next couple of years, working with the senior levels of government, and I think it’s going to be really important to have all of council roll up their sleeves and dig in hard. Whoever is running, I hope you’re ready to work hard in the coming four years.” Since the flooding and fires of 2021, Luck says the City and its staff have

been hard at work on recovery efforts, and says he would oversee efforts to increase resiliency in the community if elected Mayor. He notes that while there have been issues, he feels some criticism directed at City staff and elected officials has been unfair and unfortunate. Luck says he will also focus on making life more affordable for Merrittonians, taking on the issues of inflation and its effects on the cost of living in Merritt. Luck believes that this high cost hinders Merritt’s ‘small town appeal.’ “One of the challenges we have moving forward and trying to keep the small town appeal is that today it’s very expensive. If we have a kilometer of road to fix in Merritt, that cost is pretty much the same as in the Lower Mainland, if not more in Merritt. In Merritt, 7000 people pay for that, compared to 2,000,000 in the Lower Mainland.” Moving forward, Luck will continue to engage his constituents and fulfill his duties as a councillor. The campaign period for the 2022 elections doesn’t officially start until September, and Luck says there is lots of work still to be done in the meantime. “Despite some of the issues around the council table, this council has gotten a lot of things done. If I look back over my record in the past four years, I’ve brought a lot of the initiatives and things like that to the table. I’ll continue to do that, and I have the experience to be able to do that.” The 2022 civic election is scheduled to take place on October 15, 2022. For more information, please call the City of Merritt at 250-378-4224, or visit www.merritt.ca/election22.

Grass fire on Highway 5

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to develop up to 8 single family residences at Spring Bank Avenue in Merritt. Our affordable home ownership program provides working families, individuals, seniors, veterans, and low-income families in our community with an opportunity to purchase a safe and suitable home with No Down Payment.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NEW HOUSING. The Merritt Fire and Rescue Department and BC Wildfire Services put out an estimated 3.6 hectare wide grass fire along Highway 5 between exit 286 and 290 on Wednesday, June 22. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

For further information contact John Rose at 1-250-540-0133 or john@habitatkamloops.com

A16

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Open 7 days a week

Girl Guides continue to grow over summer break

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Accepting Consignments we also buy: ART & STUDIO POTTERY

The Merritt Girl Guides recently attended their summer camp at Adams Lake to wrap up their year. They are looking forward to another year of supporting the community. Photo/Merritt Girl Guides

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM The Merritt Girl Guides may be wrapping up their year of planned activities before summer break starts, but their presence in the community will remain as the group continues to grow in size while planning for the fall. The Merritt Girl Guides are a part of the Girl Guides of Canada, a service organization for girls ages five to 17 that promotes personal growth and learning, as well as leadership and community service. The Guides have operated in Merritt for decades, with the most recent revival of the group seeing continued growth in membership. “We started with 16 at the beginning of the year and we ended with 20,” said Susan Doncaster, a local organizer for the Girl Guides. “Our numbers keep on growing every year. Three years ago we were only at eight girls.” This group of 20 guides embarks on multiple service projects throughout their year, which mostly lines up with the school year besides a few summer activities. Their recent projects taught them about community organizations, cleaning up the community, and spending time with other generations. “We’ve done a lot of volunteer work with seniors, trying to brighten everyone’s spirits over the past couple of years. We do charity walks and we also pick up garbage on our free time, and just help out wherever we can.” On top of this work, the Merritt Girl Guides often volunteer at other community events, as well as working with the Merritt Centennials to sell their iconic girl scout cookies. Their plans for next year will be decided over the summer and at the beginning of fall 2022, with the Guides first earning a well deserved break.

The Merritt Girl Guides is also sending a few of its members to summer camps this year, thanks to support from the community and parents involved in the group. Their fundraising efforts are continuous, with proceeds directly funding programs in the community. Doncaster said that the social and emotional benefits of joining were incredible to witness. “They made connections with each other this year. With COVID, lots of us forgot how to connect and be with each other. The friendships that they grew this year were amazing. You could see them shine and shake off some of that shyness.” Despite the years of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, fires, and flooding, the Merritt Girl Guides have stayed resilient and continued to serve the community and support each other, as well as other nonprofit organizations and learning committees in Merritt. “We’re going to be doing a couple of service projects that the girls get to pick in the fall. We try to do projects with some of the other committees, like the Literacy Week last January we did with Literacy Merritt.” Doncaster added that the response from Merrittonians has been overwhelmingly positive, with support coming from all directions during the Guides’ time spent learning, volunteering, and leading in the community. “Everyone is there with open arms. Everybody wants to help out and work with us, so it’s a really nice response. We want to thank the community for everyone who has helped us, the list is so long it’s hard to name them all.” For more information, or to get involved with the Merritt Girl Guides, call Chelsea Werrun at 250-936-9015, or email 378csparks@gmail.com.

This intriguing mid-century painting of Summerland by Eric Dixon will be featured in our June online auction.

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Vote for your favourite business.

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2022

People’s Choice

NEW CATEGORIES ADDED FOR 2022 MERRITT HERALD

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

PEOPLE’S CHOICE PEOPLE’S CHOICE

AWARDS AWARDS 2018

2019 2022

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-2022/

VOTE ONLINE!

https://www.merrittherald.com/ peoples-choice-2022/

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 Wednesday, August 24, 2022 at noon PST. Some restrictions and conditions apply.

Name: Address: City:

Email:

BUSINESS Business Customer Service ______________________ Butcher Shop ___________________________________ Cannabis Dispensary ____________________________ Tattoo Studio ___________________________________ Seniors Home __________________________________ Landscaping Company ___________________________ Plumbing Company ______________________________ Auto Parts Store ________________________________ Auto Repair Shop _______________________________ Clothing Store __________________________________ Cold Beer Wine / Liquor Store ____________________ Convenience Store ______________________________ Daycare________________________________________ Dog/Cat Groomer _______________________________ Fitness Facility__________________________________ Gas Station ____________________________________ Grocery Store___________________________________ Spa ___________________________________________ Salon__________________________________________ Hotel / Motel ___________________________________ Insurance Office ________________________________ Logging Company _______________________________ Unique Business ________________________________ Building Supply Company_________________________ Tire Shop ______________________________________ Accountant / Bookkeeper ________________________ Bank __________________________________________ Storage Facility _________________________________ Catering _______________________________________

Telephone: Restaurant _____________________________________ Pub ___________________________________________ Massage Office _________________________________ Pharmacy ______________________________________ Real Estate Company ____________________________ Optical Business ________________________________ Building Contractor Company _____________________ Electrical Company ______________________________ Welding Company _______________________________ Coffee Shop/Cafe _______________________________ Agricultural/Farm/Ranch Business ________________ Home Based Business___________________________ PEOPLE AND PLACES (Include Name & Business Name) Local Artist_____________________________________ Dentist ________________________________________ Doctor _________________________________________ Coach _________________________________________ Hair Dresser____________________________________ Nail Technician _________________________________ Cook __________________________________________ Mechanic ______________________________________ Manager _______________________________________ Personal Trainer ________________________________ Photographer ___________________________________ Realtor ________________________________________ Receptionist____________________________________ Server _________________________________________ Local Band/Musician ____________________________ Teacher/Educator (Elementary School) _____________

Select who your top choices are in at least 25% of the total categories. Contest closes Wednesday, August 24 at noon. One entry per household per week. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Teacher/Educator (High School) ___________________ Veterinarian (name of vet) ________________________ Volunteer ______________________________________ Club/Sports Organization ________________________ Non Profit Organization __________________________ Best Local Event ________________________________ FOOD AND BEVERAGE Breakfast ______________________________________ Burger _________________________________________ Chinese Food ___________________________________ Steak _________________________________________ Pizza __________________________________________ Soup __________________________________________ Wings _________________________________________ Dessert________________________________________ Sushi__________________________________________ Sandwich ______________________________________ TOP BUSINESSES Business Of The Year ____________________________ Business Overall (Under 10 Employees) ____________ _______________________________________________ Business Overall (Over 10 Employees) _____________ New Business - 2 year’s or less in business _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Business Owner ________________________________

VOTE ONLINE at https://www.merrittherald.com/peoples-choice-2022/ Physical ballots can be dropped off at the Merritt Herald office, 2090 Granite Avenue, Merritt, BC

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

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SPORTS

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

The 2022 Merritt Crown mountain bike race Merritt locals, Jessie and Sean Strang, win the team event at the 2022 Merritt Crown. Photo/ Merritt Crown

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM June 18 was a treat for cyclists from BC and Alberta as the annual Merritt Crown took place. The event, once again, shows that Merritt is not trailing when it comes to trails. 130 cyclists were present on Saturday, June 18 for the Merritt Crown. The race is aptly titled for its challenging terrain. “We want people to know what they’re getting into,” said Darch Oborne, cofounder of Merritt Crown. “120 kilometres is no cakewalk for any rider. Anybody that can finish the Merritt

Crown within 12 hours, at 3000 metres of elevation, and potentially muddy or rainy conditions, deserves a gold star because it’s a grueling course.” Fortunately, it was all sunshine for the 2022 race as, Albertan, Brian Cooke nabbed the first place. The Canmore native was able to win the Crown for a second time, finishing the race in just under seven hours. Second place finisher, Brendan Taylor, was not far behind, only missing the mark by 17 minutes. The race is in its fifth year, and originated from a two man ride consisting of Oborne’s son, James, and Lennard Pretorious. “It started as a celebration in year one of the Canadian sesquicentennial in 2017,” Oborne recalled. “I put together this trail and two fellows raced on it the first year and then we decided to make it into a race to promote tourism and the Merritt economy.” Oborne was very pleased with this year’s turn out and boasted about Merritt’s trails. “I ride all over Western North America, and our trails are good,” he exclaimed. “They stand up to most communi-

ties, not so much from the perspective of machine built trails like the ones in Whistler, but from a scenery, and weather point of view.” While the event saw dozens of out-oftown folk compete, there were also local talent that were on display. Jordan Pher, finished third place at the event’s 60 km race called the Tiara, while Sean and Jessie Strang finished first at the team event. After the race, event volunteers were treated to an appreciation dinner, courtesy of Mr. Mike’s. Oborne says these volunteers are crucial to the success of the Crown. “They’re very essential,” he exclaimed. “In the past, we have donated the funds that we’ve raised be cause there isn’t anybody being paid, We’ve donated it to the maintenance and development of Merritt Trails.” Usually donating for trail maintenance, the Crown this year will donate to another cause. All proceeds from the race will go towards flood relief to be donated to the Merritt Rotary Club. “We want to help out in the little way that we can,” said Oborne. “Every little

bit helps, and we feel that it’s appropriate for this year’s race.” Along with volunteers, Oborne is very thankful for all the sponsors who contributed to this year’s race. “The city helped us, the Nicola Valley Tourism helped us, all kinds of people stepped in and said ‘hey what a good idea! Let’s promote Merritt,” he explained. “That’s the whole essence of it; promote good health, mountain biking, and Merritt in particular.” Merritt Mountain Bike Association President, Kal Tire, Credit Union, and Hack Electric hosted aid stations for the riders. Merritt Save-On Foods contributed snacks while Breathe Bikes gave out some gear for the riders. Best Western provided accommodations for the winners. With this year’s race being a success, Oborne is hoping to make next year an even better outing. “We’re looking for a bonafide society to come in and take over because the race is now at a point where, it needs some guidance from an actual registered society.” The 2023 Merritt Crown is set to take place on the third weekend of June next year.

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

came back to BC High School Rodeo with an unstifled sense of determination wanting to show that he is one of the best. “It makes me feel alive, like I’m bulletproof,” said Sterling Jr., speaking on riding the bull which he describes as “conquering a 1700 pound beast.” The BC High School Rodeo Association’s provincial tournament was the perfect backdrop for his journey, going up against eight other highly skilled contestants, but it was he who would go home with the title. The Provincials took place in Quesnel, B.C. from June 10 - 12. Sterling Jr. edged out the competition and was able to take home the first place buckle, cash prize, and a scholarship from the association. The win qualified Sterling Jr. for the

Canadian Finals taking place on August in Swift Current, Sask. “I feel really good and I’m looking to make a comeback this year,” he said. The young bull rider’s passion for the sport runs deep as he has been in it since he was enrolled in Little Britches Rodeo at 10 years old. “He loves doing this sport,” said his mother, Tasha Sterling. “We didn’t push him into it. We asked him if he wanted to try and he said ‘sure’. It is also worth noting that bull riding runs in Sterling Jr.’s family. His father, David Sr. rode for the Bull Riders Only Inc. in the States and the Canadian Professional Bull Riding (PBR).

Local wins first place in provincial bull riding Bull riding is an extremely dangerous sport and unfortunately, Merritt local, David Sterling Jr. had to find this out the hard way. “Last year I had a bull lacerating my liver and that put me in the hospital for a couple of days.” This, however did not convince the young rider to call it quits. Rather, it only added fuel to the fire as he wanted to prove now, more than ever, that he belongs in the sport. “Rodeo is all I can think about, I always imagine where I want to go with this sport.” And prove he did. The 16-year-old

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SPORTS From Page 18 “I couldn’t be any more prouder than a sunrise,” Sterling Sr. described his reaction to his son’s big win. “His smile is the biggest thing I see when he rides and it says

everything.” Aside from Sterling Jr. other Merrittonians were able to take home gold at Quesnel. Vanessa Michel - 1st place in goat tying

Ayla Goss - 1st place in pole bending Wyatt Smith - buckle award for season leader in bull riding “I want to get to the National Finals at the end of my high school career,” said Sterling Jr.

“It’s going to take a lot of hard work but I’m excited about the process.” Sterling Jr. is now getting ready for the Canadian Finals in Swift Current Saskatchewan, taking place from August 4 - 6.

gathering to mark the organization’s first full-scale rodeo since years of pandemic restrictions, fires, and flooding. The rodeo, taking place on the June 4 and 5 weekend at the Nicola Valley Rodeo Grounds, was the first Little Britches event in years mostly untouched by pandemic restrictions and the imminent threat of evacuation alerts and orders. Over 120 entries to a variety of roping, tying, and barrel racing events kept organizers and contestants alike busy over the weekend. “It was one of the biggest Merritt Little Britches Rodeos we’ve ever held,” said Tanya Starrs, volunteer with the Merritt Little Britches Rodeo Association. “It was really good to have a full house and a full grounds, because over the last year or two we’ve been either dealing with fires, or COVID, or flooding. So there was a limited number of people on the ground, we could only have our contestants but not anybody to come and

watch.” The lifting of COVID-19 restrictions in BC has allowed for the return of full bleachers and visible smiling faces throughout the grounds on Lindley Creek Road, where rodeo contestants aged up to 15 compete in a variety of skill and timing based events. It was an exciting weekend for the Starrs family in particular, with daughter and local high-school student Kelsey Starrs securing multiple podium wins to ultimately end up as the weekend’s breakaway roping champion, despite a busy rodeo experience filled with last-minute changes and riding a horse borrowed from a friend. “Her own barrel racing horse wasn’t available for her to run, so she had to just go ahead and borrow a friend of ours’s horse, and just kind of get on and ride. It didn’t go exactly to plan, but it was still a great experience,” added Starrs. Moving forward, rodeo goers and

Merritt Little Britches members will fine tune their skills and participate in rodeos both in the Nicola Valley and beyond. The Merritt Little Britches Association is affiliated with the BC Little Britches Association, and members participate in locally organized events. “Kids are practicing with their horses now throughout the week, and we have local rodeo practices sometimes where we get all the kids together and practice.” Starrs added that the return of the Little Britches Rodeo marked the start of a return to ‘normal,’ and said she was happy to see younger contestants make up nearly a third of total entries to this year’s event. “What I think was really amazing was that we had a lot of local Merritt kids enter. I don’t know if we’ve had this many entries in a long time. There were a lot of younger kids in the junior division that entered. It was nice to see that generation coming up to support the sport of rodeo.”

we partner with I·SPARC to acknowledge Indigenous youth who have stood out for their leadership, exceptional athleticism and exemplary commitment to their sport, community, and culture. Congratulations, you are an inspiration to us all.” Sam, an endurance runner, has been blowing past both his fundraising goals on foot for years now, raising over $150,000 for the Nicola Valley & District Food Bank and Nicola Family Therapy for food security and mental health initiatives. Sam says he draws strength from his culture and connection to the land, and is intent on helping more. Manuel, a sprinter and snowboarder, has been kept busy with multiple sports, school, and the cultural activities he participates in. A member of the Sun Peaks First Nations Snowboard team, he can be seen out on the slopes as often as he can be seen on the track. Manuel is continuing on with his active lifestyle, and is also being mentored by traditional leaders in his community. Michel, a high school rodeo competitor, was the Valedictorian of Merritt Secondary School’s class of 2022. Currently residing in Cache Creek, she and her mother have driven to Merritt daily for school and work since Michel’s grade 8 year. She smudges each morning before competing, following in her grandparents footsteps and honouring her cul-

ture. Moving forward, she plans to attend the University of Calgary for her Bachelor of Science. “It’s truly inspiring to witness and learn all that you have achieved as athletes, students and representatives of your communities and nations. We are so proud of you for achieving your successes. Being involved in sports will bring you friends, travel, healthy lifestyles, resiliency, and allow you to set and achieve goals.” said David Lafontaine, I·SPARC Interior Regional Action Team member and Metis. In collaboration with I·SPARC, a provincial organization aiming to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous peoples, the Province of BC hosts the Premier’s Awards program to further reconciliation and recognize the achievements and leadership of Indigenous leaders in communities across BC. “Sport is a powerful medicine that truly changed my life. It has the power to uplift individuals and inspire communities. These young athletes are the best of the best and a shining example of reconciliation in action,” said Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Melanie Mark. “I am proud to be Nisga’a, Gitsxan, Cree and Ojibway and the Minister responsible for Sport. I am so thrilled to congratulate each of the 29 Indigenous athletes for being so amazing.”

Little Britches Rodeo’s return to Merritt grounds

Little Britches Rodeo participant Kelsey Starrs poses with her championship buckle and bag, having won top spot for breakaway roping at this weekend’s event. Photo/Tanya Starrs

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM The Merritt Little Britches Rodeo Club hosted another successful rodeo event, with a record number of attendees

Merritonians win ‘Indigenous Youth Excellence’ sports award

Three local Indigenous athletes have won a prestigious award from the Premier of British Columbia, being recognized for their commitment to sports and their community. Photo/ ISPARC

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Three young local Indigenous athletes have won the 2021 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, being hailed for their commitment to sport, active living, education, and culture. Darius Sam of Lower Nicola, a member of the Neskonlith Band, and Keanu Manuel of Merritt and the Upper Nicola Band are two of the regional recipients of the award for BC’s Interior. Vanessa Michel, who resides in Cache Creek but is a member of Upper Nicola Band, also received the award. Age 21, 14, and 17

respectively, they are three of only 29 total recipients of the awards. Administered by the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) and presented by the Premier of BC, nominations were open last year for Indigenous youth athletes 25 and under who compete in performance sport, and display a commitment to healthy and active living, culture, and education. “These regional awards celebrate Indigenous youth excellence in sport, an important part of our government’s commitment to reconciliation,” said Premier John Horgan. “Each year, it is with great pride that

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

Merritt Secondary School’s ‘Queerzine’

The MSS Gender and Sexuality Alliance Club is creating a magazine, entitled Queerzine, highlighting the works of LGBTQ2S+ students. Photo/MSS

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Students of Merritt Secondary School (MSS) are showing their creative side this Pride Month, celebrating the occasion and their students in the LGBTQ2S+ community by producing a magazine compiled of their art.

The magazine, entitled Queerzine, is an initiative of the school’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) Club, which was recently revived by MSS English teacher Marika Cram and students at the school. The

club meets weekly, and provides a safe environment for students that identify as a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community. The magazine hopes to offer the student and community populations at large a new perspective. “It’s partially a celebration of their developing

identities as they have the queer adolescent experience in Merritt,” said Cram. “It’s about sharing their perspectives and building a community here. They’re trying to express themselves freely. The kids have put together a bunch of art, poetry, stories, and all sorts of stuff, so

we built this magazine together.” Queerzine is a work in progress, with Cram and her volunteer student editors compiling a multitude of art forms from the MSS student base throughout June, celebrated internationally as Pride Month. The magazine will be released before the end of the school year, and will be available digitally. Cram says that the response has been wider in scope than the GSA club had originally anticipated, with students outside the club’s membership submitting their works and perspectives on being a queer member of the student base. “The response has been huge actually. There were lots of kids who weren’t even in the club but sent me their stuff as well. Every day I get more emails and I add more pages and more things to it.” After its inception at the beginning of this school year, Cram says the GSA club seems to be encouraging students to share their personal experiences as members of the queer community, and

their own stories and experiences compiled. “It’s nice to see themselves reflected in something that they created themselves,” added Cram. “If it goes well, I would do it again next year and have

it be a yearly pride celebration at the end of the year for the gay students to share all the artwork and stuff they’ve done.” For more information or any questions, please email mssqueerzine@gmail.com.

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THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m. Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m. Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m. Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time every Sunday - 10 am Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268 Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

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supporting pride in the community. Recently, members of the club and school district faculty hosted a pride walk in Merritt, leaving positive messages in sidewalk chalk throughout the downtown core. The club hopes to continue their Queerzine initiative on a yearly basis, and planning for future initiatives such as education field trips and more community events are already underway. Through these events, students will be able to see

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CLASSIFIEDS

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Obituaries

SUDOKU

Obituaries

Cheryl Gail Gillett July 6, 1944 – June 25, 2022 It is with deepest sorrow and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Cheryl Gillett (Champ), who left us at the age of 77 while temporarily residing at the Ponderosa Pines in Kamloops. Cheryl is survived by her sons, Dave (Doris) and Gary, and her granddaughter, Christina, all of whom she loved with all of her heart. She is also survived by her sisters, Pat (Maurice), Susan (Doug), Janice (Ted) and brothers, Larry (Pat), Allan (Wendy), Randall (Jean) and many nieces and nephews. Cheryl was predeceased by her husband Wayne, mother Jean McLeod, father Doug Champ, brother Mike Champ and sister Donna Worrall. Cheryl was born in Vancouver and relocated, first to Nanaimo and then to Chilliwack in the late 1950s. From there, she made her final home in Merritt in 1981. While there, she contributed greatly to the community and established many great friendships. Next to family, was her love of cooking. She loved making meals for family and friends alike. She was well known for her many hours of volunteering with Victim Services, Citizens on Patrol, and Merritt Booster Club, to name a few. She was best known for her role as Life Skills Coordinator at the Ska-lu-la Workshop; a position she was very passionate about! Her commitment to working with the disabled went far beyond “a position”. She was one of few respite options for families in the community where she would take them into her own home for short periods of time. As a result of her many contributions, she was awarded the prestigious honor of “Woman of the Year”. We are so proud of Mom to know that the resounding word people used to describe her was “KIND”. We would like to extend our gratitude for the kindness and care of Dr McLeod, Kidney Clinic in Kamloops Hospital and all the other care providers. She will be greatly missed by many! At her request, there will be no service but the family would like to hold a Celebration of Life at a later date. Please check website at www. merrittfuneralchapel.com for further information and to leave your condolences online. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association.

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Obituaries

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Ted (Edward) Hardwick July 1932 - June 2022 On June 6th, 2022 during the evening angels came and took Ted to his new home with Jesus. We thank God for all the years God let us share our lives with him. We miss him deeply, but could never wish him back. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann, his oldest son Steve, his daughter Bev, his youngest son Troy, three grand sons and one great grandson. We wish to thank every person who had any part in his care.

1. Basics 4. In a new way 10. __ Paulo, city 11. Jailhouse 12. Expresses surprise 14. Trigraph 15. A small stream 16. Dissimilar 18. Promote 22. Gives a boost 23. Lawmaker 24. Orthodox Jews 26. Actor Harris 27. Wild cherry

28. Participate in democracy 30. Opposite of begins 31. A Brit’s mother 34. Set of moral principles 36. Very fast airplane 37. Czech river 39. Private school in New York 40. Israeli dance 41. Electron volt 42. Adjusting 48. Duct by the bladder 50. Small burger 51. Begin again

52. Unstuck 53. Jai __, sport 54. Get free of 55. For instance 56. Hotel chain 58. A team’s best pitcher 59. Extracts from various sources 60. Indefinite period of time

21. German expressionist painter 25. What drives you 29. N. Vietnamese ethnic group 31. Gold coin used in British India 32. Have deep affection for 33. Ponds 35. Breaks between words 38. Hairstyle 41. Print errors 43. Family of iron alloys 44. Sidelined in bed 45. Many couples say it

46. Brazilian hoopster 47. Allman Brothers late frontman 49. German city 56. One hundred grams (abbr.) 57. One billionth of a second (abbr.)

DOWN 1. St. Francis of __ 2. Supported 3. United in working 4. It cools your home 5. Predicting 6. Irritated 7. Popular talk show host 8. Fabric edge 9. A resource for employees 12. Broadway’s Jackman 13. Small water buffalo 17. City of Angels: __ Angeles 19. Asteroids 20. Tailless amphibians

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Employment

Nooaitch Indian Band 2954 Shackelly Road Merritt, BC V1K 1N9

Ph: 250-378-6141 Fax: 250-378-3699

HOMEMAKER WANTED Social Development Department The homemaker reports to the Social Development Department and is responsible for providing home making services for Elders and people with disabilities on the Nooaitch Indian Band reserve. A homemaker provides healthy support to clientele and is required to do physical demanding tasks. A homemaker represents an important enhancement to Elders and Client care. A dynamic, enthusiastic, and reliable individual committed to home services is a key. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • To provide professional homemaking services to pre-approved Nooaitch or community members as directed by the Social Development Dept. • Maintain cleaning duties based on the evaluation provided by the Scw’exmx Community Society’s nurse. Duties may include but are not limited to; vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, dish washing, dusting, cleaning and disinfecting bathrooms, the kitchen area, laundry and overall upkeep and tidying of the center and area. • To establish a professional working relationship with the client(s) and follow a cleaning schedule, based on evaluation. • To perform assigned duties and responsibilities with respect for client(s) privacy and condentiality; adapt to a variety of situations; and respect and accept different values and standards of living. • To maintain a record of hours and duration of service for each client(s); record services provided at each visit; report incidents; provide time sheets as per Nooaitch policy. • Conduct all work in accordance with safety procedures. QUALIFICATIONS: • High School Diploma/equivalent • Must have the ability to perform outlined cleaning tasks with minimum supervision. • Must possess physical ability to perform all cleaning tasks. • Must be self-motivated. • Good interpersonal/communication skills • Must be in good health and have all Covid-19 vaccine shots. • Must have Driver’s License Please submit your resume, covering letter, and references to: Human Resources, Nooaitch Indian Band, 2954 Shackelly Rd. Merritt BC. V1K 1N9

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM COORDINATOR School District No. 58 is accepting applications for Hot Lunch Program Coordinator at Merritt Bench Elementary School beginning September 2022. (Specific start date to be determined upon hire). 24 hours per week/ 1 hour for preparation on Monday—5.5 hours Tuesday--Friday. Must have completed the Food Safe course. Previous experience dealing with students and running a kitchen would be an asset. If interested, please send your resume along with three references to Jody McGifford at jmcgifford@365.sd58.bc.ca or on-line at www.sd58. bc.ca, click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 3272011).

TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

Success for ALL Learners, Today and Tomorrow

CURRENT JOB OPPORTUNITIES

We are currently inviting applications for the position(s) of:

POSITION

JOB CODE

Manager of Information Technology 3221097 Manager of Human Resources 3276925 First Nations Support Worker 3259682 StrongStart Coordinator 3256009 Hot Lunch Program Coordinator – Merritt Bench Elementary 3272011 Noon-Hour Supervisors – all schools 3259708 Noon-Hour Supervisor – Collettville Elementary 3179253 Relief Clerk Typist 3256003 Relief Custodian 3259601 Relief Bus Driver 3255978 Relief Education Assistant 3259613

CLOSING DATE

July 8, 2022 June 30, 2022 Ongoing Ongoing

VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT

PRODUCTION WORKERS

(FT/PT)

• Wages: starting $20 to $25 • Steady day shift work • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train

TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1 Local steady work

1ST & 2ND YEAR MECHANICS AGRICULTURAL WORKERS Local Area

LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS

Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 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 .

Excellent medical & dental plan Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C.

250-378-6161

We have a F/T position for a shipping/ general labourer in Savona, BC. M-F 8am-5pm, weekend & stats off. Wages negotiable. Beneﬁt plan. Must have your own transportation.

Send resume to jobs@nelsonmachinery.com

is looking for a

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Journey’s Into Tomorrow Transition House

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Casual Support Worker Position Duties: Under the direction of the Program Director, the successful applicant will carry out the Vision and Mission of Journey’s Into Tomorrow Transition House and provides support to women and their children in a nonjudgemental and condential atmosphere. Duties Include the following: • To create an atmosphere of safety and trust by providing condential and non-judgemental support • To assist clients recognize their rights and responsibilities • To provide necessary referrals and/or case planning with other organizations/agencies • Intake procedures including assessing eligibility • Handle crisis calls and to provide emotional support, information and referrals over the phone • Record keeping in compliance with the Privacy Act and Journey’s Into Tomorrow policies, as well as maintain statistical activity reports • Cleaning duties to include, but limited to, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, disinfecting etc. Position Quallcatlons and Requirements: • College Certicate in the Social Services discipline or two years’ experience In the Social Services Sector • Crisis and Suicide Intervention/Prevention • Food safe, Level 1 First Aide • Effective and respectful interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work cooperatively with colleagues • Reliable and self motivated • Maintains professional standards of practice including ethical boundaries and protecting the condentiality of the House, families and colleagues • Reliable vehicle and valid BC Driver’s License • Complies with the Criminal Records Review Act Employment type: On call casual Start date: Immediately Wage: Dependent on qualications and previous experience Please fax or email resumes to: 250-378-6172 Email: transitionhouse@coldwaterband.org Only selected applicants will be contacted for interviews

FULL-TIME LABOURER. $ 18/hour • must have a valid driver’s licence • landscaping experience an asset but not required. • hardworking individual • experience with power tools Please fax resumes to 250-378-4166 or email: tlcpond1@telus.net

KITCHEN MANAGER required full time position, previous experience required.

Wage negotiable based on experience. Apply in person to 2670 Garcia St. or email: nicolameadows@shaw.ca

Wanted Motorhome 2014 MONTANA FIFTH WHEEL

Model - 3402 RL, 4 slides, 40 feet, 2 AC’s, 4 dr. Fridge, ﬁreplace, massive storage, deck, skirting and winter package! It’s never been lived in full-time. Only moved from dealer to RV Park in Oliver (Desert Lake RV Park!).

Phone: 250-267-8187

Only $55,000

Wanted

Numismatist Purchasing Coin Collections & Accumulations! Royal Canadian Mint, Canada & World Collections Wanted. Also buying 9999 bullion, old money, jewelry, nuggets, sterling, gold, silver, coins, bars, monster boxes +++ Estates Welcome! Todd (250) 864 - 3521

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.

www.merrittherald.com

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THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

Local Business Director y PEST SERVICES

PRESSURE WASHING

For more Information Contact us today at

RESTORATION CARPENTRY

FLOOD CLEANUP

CARPET CLEANING ICES JANITORIAL SERV

36 1-888-679-21 oup.com

icesgr sales@integralserv rvicesgroup.com www.integralse

FLOWER SHOP • Bouquets • Arrangements • Plants • Local Made Giftware @missvickispetalsandplants 1974 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC • 250-378-5575

TREE SERVICE JIM PO TT ER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE

lle r • Fu lly ins ur ed , cer tif ied fa • WS BC co ve red en t • Da ng ero us tre e as se ssm timate ➤Schedule your FREE Es 8-4212 CALL JIM at 250-37 e problems!

Become a

VOLUNTEER and HELP your COMMUNITY

EXCAVATING Gary ’s Mini Excavating Service

•Small Job Specialist •Dump Trailer Service •Fencing &Post Pounder •Concrete Driveways &Sidewalks • FullyInsured

erates the The NVHC Auxiliary op facets of ny ma es vid Thrift Shop and pro mmunity. co pport the comfort and care to su

LP please stop in at the If you have HANDS to HE tion or apply on our website Thrift Shop to pick up an applica at nvhealthcareaux.ca

ail.com

email: garylsedore@gm

Cell: 250-315-3174 TES: 250-378-4312 l Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMA

Cal

PLUMBING & HEATING

LICENSED CANNABIS

Nico la Plu mbin g & Hea ting

Quilchena Cannabis Co.

FULLY QUALIFIED TRADESMAN IN: Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters

Service work, furnace service and

Certified Plumbers & Gas Fitte

Quilchena Canna Company

custom sheet metal.

rs wanted - apply today!

CLEANING SERVICES

VOLUNTEER

www.nicolaplumbingandheating.com

T BE

19+

Call 250-378-5 420 Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC

email: nicplumb@telus.net 2064 Coutlee Ave. Ph: 250-378-4943

ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE

DENTIST

HERE FOR YOU!

NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME

11 Toll Free: 1-80 0-665-87 om www.danalbas.c @DanAlbas

DanAlbas4COSN

Solutions for your tre

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED!

PRIME ADVERTISING LOCATION! This is a full colour business card size space on a 1, 3, 6 month or more contract. Be sure to give me a call if you want to reserve your advertisement in this spot.

ASK FOR KEN • 250-378-4241 250 378 4241

or email: classifieds@merrittherald.com

GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call

250-378-4888 to book your appointment.

HOURS

Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr. R. Dutt-DMD

2731 Forksdale Avenue, V1K 1R9

www.dentistryatmerritt.ca

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www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, June 30, 2022

email: rlpmerit@telus.net

SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS!

Helping you is what we do.™

3499 Voght Street, Merritt BC, V1K 1C6

250-378-6181

Owner/Broker

www.royallepage.ca

Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt email: rlpmerit@telus.net for a complete list of current listing.

Managing Broker

CLAUDETTE EDENOSTE Ph: 250-280-0689

JOHN ISAAC Ph: 250-378-1586

claudetteedenoste@ royallepage.ca

johnisaac@telus.net

JENNIFER KIGHTLEY Ph: 250-315-3256 jenniferkightley@ royallepage.ca

TONY LUCK

Ph: 604-217-5825 tjluck@royallepage.ca

LOOKING TO SELL?

DENISE DESILETS Ph: 250-315-8395 denisedesilets@ royallepage.ca

FRED SINGER

Ph: 250-318-8392 fred.singer@royallepage.ca

4 MARBLE COURT

5972 BEECH ROAD

$980,000

(Logan Lake) $274,425

Call one of our agents to see what your home is worth. 11 COPPER COURT

(Logan Lake) $349,900

1844/1852 GRANITE AVENUE $554,500

Would you like to purchase an affordable investment property with excellent long term tenants who have great references? On a quarter acre of land with mountain views in sunny Logan Lake? This is for you! 168345

1555 CHESTNUT AVENUE

$739,000

This 14.15 Acres consists of a 3 bed, 2 bath beautiful country home that sits west facing with stunning views. The home is bright & open with a real warm feel with hardwood floors. 2 guest cabins, a barn on a concrete foundation with a wash bay & loft area. 167946

$549,000

L SO

This manufactured home with a modern design is perfect for the busy family. New kitchen which features generous cupboard space plenty of counter tops. Enjoy those quiet evenings in the beautiful private backyard that backs onto green space. 168359

3225 PETIT CREEK ROAD

1-1749 MENZIES STREET

$998,900

$461,500

ROOM FOR HORSES on this 5.63 acre property. Lovely 2007 3 bed 3 bath home with detached garage, river view and much more! Check out you tube video! 165779

This end unit, 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2 level townhouse offers open plan and large southern exposed yard to enjoy those summer nights. Great location in complex! 167350

Side by Side Duplex. Fabulous investment opportunity with great returns from income streams or live in one side and rent the other! Each side 854 sq ft. 2 X 2 bedroom units, 4 piece bath, larger living room, kitchen & laundry room 168028

2543 JACKSON AVENUE

KEVIN DUNN

Ph: 250-525-0073 1kevindunn@ protonmail.com

Royal y LePage g Property p y Management g For all rental inquiries, please contact

Beautiful location offering a low mainte-nance yard. This home has an open con-cept floor plan with 10ft ceilings that combines the great room, dining, kitch-en featuring a large island with quartz counters, soft close cabinetry with an elevator lift for ease of lift for heavy kitchen items. 167146

A nice 2 storey 4 bedroom family home in a nice area with a large backyard that has lane access to accommodate a possible granny or coach house in the future. The one vehicle garage is large enough to acommodate a full sized truck. 167344

Kevin Dunn or Crystal Chandler.

Rental Applications are available at our ofﬁce AND on our website www.merrittrealestateservices.com in the “Property Management” tab.

Phone: 250-378-1996 or Email: proplepage@gmail.com