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Goetz calls on Minister Dix for ER help

point, we’ve had total silence.”

Goetz said he believes that the impacts of the emergency department closures go beyond healthcare, including the potential for developers and industry to skip over Merritt for their next venture due to the lack of staffing capacity at the E.R.

“This is starting to effect our economic development, as well as the safety of the people in this community,” added Goetz.

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Following two day-long closures in the span of just 72 hours, Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz is calling on the provincial government to take action and acknowledge the ongoing healthcare challenges the community is facing. The Nicola Valley Hospital was closed for the seventh and eighth time in 2023 this weekend.

Goetz announced in January that he would chair the BC Rural Health Alliance, an advocacy group made up of

elected municipal leaders from Vancouver Island, the Kootenays, and the Southern Interior, all regions that have suffered from ER closures and other healthcare issues. He has also called on Health Minister Adrian Dix to scrap the province’s requirement for healthcare workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19, along with conducting an investigation into the cause of the closures. Goetz told the Herald that the lack of communications from the

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STRATEGIC PLANNING

minister himself is becoming increasingly frustrating as Merrittonians go without emergency care services for entire days at a time.

“I don’t want to be antagonistic, but I’m getting extremely frustrated, and one of the frustrations for me is the fact that the minister does not respond to any questions from me, staff, the press, or anyone,” noted Goetz.

Following the 24 and 25 hour closures over the weekend, Goetz said he again spoke with Interior Health officials about the

immediate cause of the closures, which were both doctor shortages, and had a conversation with IHA brass regarding recruitment and retention efforts. He said the health authority is actively working on a number of new initiaves to draw healthcare workers to rural work environments.

Despite the fact that Goetz has not yet heard from Minister Dix himself, he noted that he has been in touch with FraserNicola MLA Jackie Tegart, and BC Liberal Health Critic Shirley Bond. Both plan

to advocate for the community on the floor of the legislature, with Goetz noting that they also view the closures as unacceptable. The MLAs have both taken to social media to criticize Minister Dix and Premier David Eby on the closures.

“They’ll both be getting as close to Minister Dix as possible, to try and get him to make a statement or acknowledge the fact that we’re having this issue,” said Goetz.

“He needs to acknowledge that, as a minister, he is looking into doing something. At this

Interior Health recently told the Herald in an interview that staff recruitment and retention efforts are ongoing, with the closures being a last resort measure to address staffing shortages caused by the overall vacancies, shortnotice sick calls, and vacation time.

The Herald has reached out to the Ministry of Health to request an interview with Minister Dix on the state of healthcare in the Nicola Valley and any initiatives undertaken by his ministry to address Merritt’s emergency room closures.

The Nicola Valley Community Arts Council recently held a strategic planning retreat, where its Board of Directors set their vision for the organization in coming years.

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FARMERS

Nuffield Canada is offering a number of scholarships for local students looking to expand their horizons in the agriculture field, with many of the prizes going unclaimed.

Search ‘SCHOLARSHIP’

The Nicola Valley Hospital’s emergency department continues to face diversions that see the department close for entire days at a time. Marius Auer/Herald

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City talks flooding prepardness ahead of spring freshet

As spring fast approaches, residents of Merritt know that so too does the annual flooding season. Warmer temperatures and resulting snow melt can produce large amounts of runoff in a short period of time. During the early spring, frozen land prevents melting snow or rainfall from seeping into the ground. The water then runs off the surface and flows into lakes, streams, and rivers, causing excess water to spill over their banks.

That’s why the Herald reached out to Emergency Management Coordinator, Krista Minar to shed some light on what to expect for this year.

“There are a number of things we encourage residents to do,” says Minar.

“The first thing is to know where to get the right information, and that comes from the City’s website and social media pages as well as Voyent Alert! There are free services and you can receive alerts from Voyent Alert! via mobile app, text message, email, or voice call. The information that comes from Voyent

Alert! comes directly from the city.”

It is important to prepare for emergency situations before they happen, adds Minar. There are a few types of kits that you can prepare to be ready for a worst casescenario.

“The 72-hour kit varies based on household, but generally contains non-perishable food, water, phone charger or power bank, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, and any prescription medications you may need, personal toiletries and some clothing. There is a full list of items to have in a 72-hour kit that you can find online,” said Minar.

The second type of emergency kit available is the grab and go bag. This is a bag located in either your workplace or vehicle that includes ready to eat food, water, phone charger and battery bank, and a small battery-powered or hand-crank radio.

“The grab and go bag is one I really recommend, it’s for when you are out working or out of the house and you aren’t able to get back home after a warning is issued,” says Minar.

“The grab and go is to make sure

that you at least have something that you can pull from, it’s basically a smaller version of the 72-hour kit but both are super helpful.”

Part of being informed about the situation is understanding the terminology associated with the given emergency. When it comes to flooding there are three terms that need to be understood: High Streamflow Advisory, Flood Watch, and Flood Warning.

“High Streamflow Advisory means that river levels are rising or are expected to rise rapidly but that no major flooding is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible and residents should think about preparing a 72-hour emergency kit,” explains Minar.

“Flood Watch means that river levels are rising and will approach or may exceed bankfull. Flooding of areas adjacent to the affected rivers may occur and you would want to have a 72-hour kit ready and think about preparing a grab and go kit. Flood Warning means that river levels have exceeded bankfull or will exceed bankfull imminently. Flooding of areas

adjacent to the rivers affected will result.”

Another suggestion for residents who may live in a floodplain is to do a walk around your property to understand where the water is coming from.

“Once you’ve identified the hazards you can formulate a plan on a case by case basis, the plan might include a sump pump or a change in landscaping to prevent water from coming near the house. If you have gutters coming off of your house we recommend they be at least two meters away from the base of your house to prevent water building up there,” recommends Minar.

The final suggestion is for families to have a discussion about what it may look like if there is an emergency situation.

“Due to uncertainties in day to day life, it’s important to make sure that if you have a pet or a member of the family with limited mobility that there is a plan in place to make sure they are taken care of if you cannot make it back to the house to get them,” said Minar.

“It’s really important to know

that if you can’t make it to pick them up that a neighbor or family member is able to stop by and scoop them up.” Minar also said that on the Government of B.C.’s website you can find the emergency preparedness guide, which has a number of suggestions for possible steps to take.

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Flooding in Lion’s Park is shown in a 2018 Herald File Photo.

EDITORIAL

A surplus in information, and a de cit in trust

hour news cycle itself, our unfettered access to information from anywhere in the world becomes more of a modern nightmare than a modern convenience.

MARIUS AUER HERALD EDITOR

As trust in traditional media continues on a downward path, and terms like “fake news” move faster than the 24

Gone are the days of the trusted and stoic-voiced news anchor that brought daily updates on the world’s goings-on, long replaced by the sound of a Twitter notification from yet another conspiracy theorist spewing hate

about a news story that doesn’t cater to their opinions and beliefs. Many people now consume their news through alternative sources that haven’t necessarily been fact-checked or made to adhere to certain standards of credibility and accountability, such as established media outlets. How did we get to this point? Is it the overall polarization of the media landscape by

public figures and world leaders? The term “fake news” has been misconstrued and weaponized to harm the credibility of political opponents and media outlets, straying far from its original meaning. Fake news is incorrect information that is intentionally shared in an effort to mislead its consumers, which is wildly different from news that is shared with errors that are quickly cor-

rected. The term is now thrown around loosely, seemingly a signal of disagreement, and a battle cry for those who lack the necessary skepticism and critical thinking to question the credibility of their news diet.

The next time you’re about to share a news article, before you send it out to the world with your name attached, question the source. Research the source’s credibility.

Is the source a real, accredited outlet? Are other media outlets reporting the same story? Does the story feature a polarizing political opinion? By collectively checking our sources, and rejecting harmful narratives seeking to replace the truth, we can create a media landscape that is both trustworthy and responsive to the needs of the community.

LETTERS to the editor

A thank you to the Nicola Valley community

Editor,

I wanted to thank every one of you for making my time here in Merritt and the Nicola Valley a very enjoyable and memorable time for me. This is my last week here in the valley, as I have taken a morning job in Hamilton, Ontario.

I cannot thank you people enough for making me feel a part of the community. You accepted me, not only as some goof on the radio, but also as one of your own. At many of the events

I attended, callers, texts, and comments you made to me every morning made such a difference in my life. I am forever humbled and thankful.

To the many organizations, teams and individuals I have met, you treated me with kindness, made me feel so welcome and I thank you.

You are truly the best listeners in all of British Columbia and I will treasure these moments, memories, and friendships forever.

Thank you for letting me into your

homes every morning, I hope I brought you some information, some laughter, some “eye rolling” moments as well. If I offended anyone with anything I said or did, I am very sorry. Everything I did was to inform and entertain. I love you all. Thank you to Roger White and Leo Baggio for taking a chance on this little Ukrainian. You guys have been incredible to say the least. You are friends more than you were bosses, people I could go to when I needed

someone to talk to. Thank you, Max, our sales genius. Thanks for everything you have done. Thank you, “vocal tissues” Zach Stewart, the voice of your Merritt Centennials. Thank you for being you. Stay the course my good friend, you have a huge career in this biz. Good luck.

Finally, thank you Merritt and Nicola Valley… FOR EVERYTHING!

God bless you all!

Trevor Stoyko Q 101 Merritt

Tegart: ‘Who is looking out for forestry workers?’

intent on managing the decline of the industry rather than trying to save it.

As mills close around B.C. and others face an uncertain future — including Aspen Planers in Merritt —the provincial government seems more

The Official Opposition has long called for a plan to ensure the future of the forestry sector, but that call has been repeatedly ignored by government. As it delayed taking action, we have seen dozens and dozens of curtailments and closures throughout British Columbia and a loss of about 850 forestry jobs over the past few months.

While the Province has made some announcements of supports for the industry, none of them have addressed the dire issue of dwindling fibre supply and providing companies with certainty.

In Merritt, the lack of logs and cutting permits has sidelined about 150 employees, some of whom are second and thirdgeneration workers, not to mention the contractors and truck drivers who are also affected.

Meanwhile, after years

of promises, the government has also failed to secure a softwood lumber deal with the U.S. Now, the Americans are taking steps to protect themselves, to the detriment of our own forestry sector.

What we need is a new, clear vision for the future of forestry in B.C., and that requires leadership. The government needs to show that it believes in a sustainable, vibrant and economically viable sector, but so far it has failed to provide that reassurance.

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$410,000.

Former Premier Bill Vander Zalm has invested a lot in Merritt, including thousands of flowering bushes.

“I think Merritt could be the Capital City of Lilacs in North America,” says the well-known gardener, who has donated thousands of lilac plants to the city in recent years.

“It’s dry and cold. It’s the best climate in North America for lilacs.”

This Friday, I will be at the rally at Aspen Planers along with my colleague Mike Bernier, who serves as the BC Liberals’ Shadow Minister for Forestry. We will be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with workers, and we certainly hope Premier David Eby and Forests Minister Bruce Ralston will do the same. They must send a message that they care about this vital industry, the people it employs and the communities that depend on its success.

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.

JACKIE TEGART VIEW FROM LEGISLATURE

Outgoing Q101 morning host, Trevor Stoyko.

1799 QUILCHENA AVENUE

Racist remark factor in Bhangu verdict

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

After being acquitted on a charge of uttering threats stemming from an incident in which he allegedly threatened the life of a local business owner, a former Merritt city councillor said he looks to move forward from what he said was a racist and political attack.

Mike Bhangu, 45, was cleared of his charge by Judge Raymond Phillips in a Kamloops provincial courtroom on Tuesday (March 8), after it was alleged that Bhangu threatened the proprietor of a local

moving service in June of 2021 after the individual was called by Bhangu’s ex-partner to assist her in moving out of the former councillor’s residence. Phillips found the complainant’s story was tainted by a racist remark made to RCMP.

David Prest, the mover named in the case, told Merritt RCMP at the time of the complaint that Bhangu was of Indian descent, saying that “he’s East Indian and they treat their women like s–t.” While under cross-examination by Bhangu’s law -

yer, Joe Killoran, Prest said the remark was simply mirroring a similar one made by Bhangu’s ex.

Phillips noted he was not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt Bhangu was guilty of the crime he has been accused of, and ultimately acquitted him on the charge, citing the racist remarks as one of the reasons behind his decision.

Prest was allegedly hired by Bhangu’s former partner to help move her belongings out of the former councillor’s basement suite. Bhangu was accused of threatening Prest, who

testified at trial, claiming Bhangu charged at him “like a bulldog.”

Prest accused Bhangu of identifying himself as a city councillor, before threatening to kill him and run his business out of town. While the former councillor admitted to yelling at Prest and using an expletive, he denied threatening the mover.

“I’d like to thank ‘The Spirit’ and all who stood by me through this racist and political attack,” said Bhangu in a statement to media following his acquittal.

“Moreover, I’m grateful to Judge Phillips for

seeing through the setup and highlighting that prosecution wasn’t working with credible evidence.”

Bhangu served as a city councillor from 2018 to 2021, at which time he resigned, citing a lack of confidence in the thenn-

Continued Page 9

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Mike Bhangu. Herald File Photo

mayor Linda Brown’s leadership. Bhangu was charged with uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm in June of 2021, while still in office, and ultimately went to trial late last year. He ran unsuccessfully for mayor in October 2022,

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

From Page 8

just one month before his trial began.

“Through the process, I felt many times treated as a secondclass citizen,” said Bhangu. “But this is nothing new, it’s the curse of a painted face, and I’ve experienced the many

manifestations of racism since childhood. In this case, if I was treated fairly, I would not have endured a criminal charge and trial. I feel nearly two years were taken from me, and I’m now left picking up the pieces.”

Last week’s decision in Mike Bhangu’s case was rendered at the Kamloops Law Courts, a provincial court. Judge Raymond Phillips came to his decision following Bhangu’s trial late last November.

Photo/Herald File

New watershed protection

Lane Robinson REPORTER@ MERRITTHERALD.COM

Braker.

“A commitment to co-develop the watershed security strategy and fund ensures First Nations in B.C. have a meaningful place at the table and exemplifies efforts to implement the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.”

The province has announced the launch of engagement on a new Watershed Security Strategy Intentions Paper, co-developed with First Nations and other stakeholders. Photo/Herald File Government and the BC First Nations Water Table announced an investment of $100-million, a record amount, in healthy watersheds and the launch of engagement on a new co-developed Watershed Security Strategy Intentions Paper.

The new initiatives will help to ensure safe, clean water is available to all communities throughout BC for generations to come according to those with the project.

“As watersheds in B.C. come under increasing pressures due to climate change, collaboration with First Nations is essential,” says First Nations Summit Political Executive and BC First Nations Water Table delegate Hugh

The provincial government says this $100-million investment in the Watershed Security Fund builds on the $30 million commitment announced in Budget 2022, and will continue to improve B.C.’s watersheds. The province says the new funding will build on the success of a previous $27 million investment in the Healthy Watersheds Initiative (HWI) under the StrongerBC economic plan.

Convened in June

2022, the BC First Nations Water Table (BCFNWT) is made up of representatives from the Province and delegates from First Nations in B.C. This announcement formalizes the BCFNWT’s role co-managing the Watershed Security Fund and further codevelopment of B.C.’s watershed security strategy.

“B.C.’s watersheds are the lifeblood of this province, and for too long, not enough has been done to protect them,” said Nathan Cullen, minister of water, land and resource stewardship.

“This $100-million investment and our ongoing work with First Nations on codeveloping a watershed security strategy will

Continued Page 11

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN) BUDGET PLANNING PROCESS – 2023/2024 ANNUAL BUDGET

Tuesday, April 5, 2023:

A public budget presentation will be made to interested stakeholders at the Merritt School Board Office and live streamed via the School District No 58 Facebook page Representatives from schools’ Parent Advisory Council (PAC), District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC), teacher and support staff Unions, Principals, and members of the public are invited to attend this meeting to review provincial funding, District projections for enrolment and funding, as well as provide more specific infor mation regarding the District’s annual budget Stakeholder groups and members of the public are welcome to outline their priorities to the Audit & Finance Committee The meeting will commence at 17:00 The purpose is to discuss priorities and listen to concer ns in order to help set the framework for the 2023/2024 annual budget

Tuesday, April 18, 2023:

Wednesday April 19, 2023:

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

PLEASE NOTE:

The Audit & Finance Committee will meet to study a draft summary which will be presented to Board on April 19, 2023.

A draft summary prepared by the Superintendent and the Secretary Treasurer to be presented to the Board for discussion

Budget bylaw to be presented at the Regular Board Meeting Subject to feedback, the budget for the 2023/2024 year will be adopted at this meeting

Representatives from stakeholder groups or members of the public will also have the opportunity to make a presentation to the Audit & Finance Committee in private if they so desire Individuals or groups interested in making such a presentation should contact the Secretary Treasurer at drichardson@365.sd58.bc.ca by April 7, 2023, to arrange a meeting, supported by a written submission

Protestors look to community

Food Bank fundraising underway

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

For the fifth week in a row, employees and contractors with Aspen Planers gathered to rally community support for the city’s largest employer, who said this week it still has not received a new cutting permit from the Ministry of Forests.

Aspen Planers’

Merritt mill was closed for over a month starting December 2022, and only reopened a month ago due to an external supply of logs, which is what has kept the mill running at reduced capacity for a number of weeks. Although running, Aspen said the cost of

From Page 10 inspire philanthropists and other partners to help grow the fund and ensure we have healthy ecosystems and communities today and for our children’s children.”

The Watershed Security Strategy Intentions Paper reflects input received from British Columbians during public engagement in 2022 about development of B.C.’s watershed security strategy. The intentions

importing logs is huge and could result in another closure in the near future. The mill is already running on just one shift per day.

Both AP Group, the parent company of Aspen Planers, and mill union leadership say the issue behind the closure is a lack of cutting permits being issued

by the provincial Ministry of Forests. The Ministry told the Herald that a vast majority of local permits, which are required to harvest logs in B.C., are issued within 45 days, and that it is working with both Aspen Planers and local First Nations to find

See PERMITS Page 12

paper developing

paper outlines potential priority strategies for the government, including examples of actions the government could take to improve watershed health, such as strengthening existing water data and the tools used to monitor demand and supply, and enhancing local watershed governance.

“Watersheds in B.C. are facing challenges that will require new management approaches to

help ensure they remain healthy and sustainable for future generations,” said Fin Donnelly, parliamentary secretary for watershed restoration.

Healthy watersheds are at the forefront of climate resiliency and are foundational to all social, environmental and economic systems, noted the province, adding that they are committed to protecting B.C.’s water and watersheds. British Columbians are invited to have their say during the public engage-

ment period on the strategies in the intentions paper,“Codeveloping the watershed security strategy and fund with First Nations, supported by the First Nations Fisheries Council of BC, signals an important shift. This brings the opportunity for watershed governance that values, honours and upholds the natural world we all mutually rely on,” commented Chief Lydia Hwitsum of Cowichan Tribes, co-chair of the BC First Nations Water Table.

The Nicola Valley and District Food Bank is looking to grow their footprint in the community, both physically through a new building, and by increasing capacity and available programming.

Through their new capital campaign for an upgraded space featuring meeting rooms, new refrigeration units, and a general incerase in available space, the Food Bank looks to garner community support for the vital service they provide. While the food bank’s main fundraising focus is their capital campaign to secure a new facility, having outgrown their current home, they continue

to seek donations of food, big and small.

“It doesn’t have to be a lot, but it helps us,” said Derlanda Hewton, the food bank’s manager.

Hewton noted that community support for the food bank has been outstanding, and that local people directly benefit when donations are recieved at the food bank.

For more information on the NVFB, visit their self-titled Facebook page.

The Nicola Valley Food Bank is located at 2026 Quilchena Avenue, and can be reached at 250-3782282.

Forestry workers and contractors continue to gather weekly in support of Aspen Planers’ efforts to obtain new cutting permits from the Ministry of Forests. Lane Robinson/Herald

The Nicola Valley and District Food Bank’s current location is on Quilchena Avenue, but the operation has outgrown its current building. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

professional service, from people who care.”

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Protestors seek new permits

From Page 11

ways to address First Nations’ concerns around sustainable forestry practices.

“We have little choice but to wait until the provincial government decides that they have completed meaningful consultation on these permits with the various Nicola Valley First Nations,” said Bruce Rose, executive vice president with AP Group.

“We have been given no indication when that could be. Only they can answer when that may be. We’ve been waiting over a year on certain permits. We only hope that we don’t have to wait yet another year.”

Rose noted that while the Ministry did reach out with some clarifying information in recent weeks, there was no contact prior, and he views the action as too little too late. He said that while Aspen welcomes conversations about improving the permitting and forestry management processes to ensure that reconciliation and conservation objectives are being met, job security for Aspen Planers workers is a must.

“It’s worse and worse every week,”

said Bryan Halford, chair for Aspen Planers’ local United Steelworkers union, at the most recent Friday protest. “We have more guys off, more guys looking for work. They’re coming to me and asking what’s happening, and all I can give them is the same answer that the government is giving us. We just have to wait.”

Aspen has called the permitting process broken and “unnecessarily opaque” in the past, and said major reform is needed. Rose said that permitting delays are not only negatively impacting mill workers, but also contractors, the city as a whole, and operations in neighbouring communities.

Rose claimed that local First Nations have received approved cutting permits in the Merritt Timber Supply Area while Aspen waits to receive even an update on the status of their aging permits.

“It is shocking that other licensees - including certain First Nations - have received cutting permit approvals in the meantime,” said Rose.

The Herald has reached out

to the Ministry of Forests for comment, and to access any recently approved cutting permits. Stuwix Resources, a forestry company owned by eight local First Nations, recently declined the Herald’s request for an interview on the topic of cutting permit applications in the Nicola Valley.

Rose added that Aspen Planers looks to engage First Nations regarding their concerns in the coming weeks, and looks to move towards a collaborative solution.

The Herald has reached out to a number of area First Nations for comment on their possible concerns.

“Aspen Planers continue to feel strongly that we can collectively steward the environment and our forest resources in a responsible manner and support First Nations reconciliation efforts while also benefiting forest workers and communities,” said Rose.

“Currently, the government’s approach appears to give no consideration to forest workers.

We continue to explore options that genuinely support working folks and help the community of Merritt, rather than forcing them to accept inferior ‘transi -

tion’ programs in lieu of their family supporting forestry industry jobs.”

Halford noted that Merritt residents can expect to see the protestors and their signs at their usual intersection until new permits are signed, with the next protest planned for Friday, March 17, at 11:30 a.m. Halford confirmed that Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart, along with BC Liberal Forestry Critic Mike Bernier will both be in attendance. He urged members of the community to show support for their local cause by attending the rally.

FOOD SERV ICE OPP OR T UNI T Y

T he NICOL A VA L L E Y RODEO A SSOCI AT ION

(N V R A) is seeking a catering and/or food ser vice business to operate the food concession for the 2023 season at the Merrit t rodeo grounds.

T he c onc es sion holds a F ood Premise p er mi t and was renova t ed in 2019 w i t h upda t ed equipment and fi nishes

T he s ucc ess f u l a p p l ic a n t m us t be a b l e t o com m i t t o prov ide ser v ic es w hen required a t all (c ur rent l y 6 – 8) sc heduled event s f or 2023, inc luding t he Labour D a y Weekend Pro Rodeo and demons t ra t e an abili t y t o prov ide a var iet y of menu i t ems a t reasonable pr ic es. A t t ent ion t o prompt ser v ic e and c omplianc e w i t h heal t h legisla t ion is es sent ial, inc luding t he requirement s f or a t emporar y f ood p er mi t. ht t ps://w w w.int er ior heal t h.c a/ Your Env ironment/F oodS a f et y/ Pages/Per mi t s aspx # t emporar y

E x pressions of interest must be recei ved by the Nicola Valley Rodeo A ssociation on or before March 31.

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Toxic drug deaths eclipse 200 for eighth time in 16 months

Fentanyl can be deadly because people often don’t know it’s been cut into drugs such as fake oxycodone, cocaine, heroin or other pills and powders, nor do they know how much fentanyl has been added.

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The province has released its latest preliminary toxic drugs deaths report, which showed that at least 211 individuals lost their lives to B.C.’s toxic drug supply in January. The high number is the eighth time in 16 months that more than 200 people have died due to toxic drugs in the province, with 211 deaths equating to 6.8 lives lost per day.

In the past two years, Merritt had among the highest rates of toxic drug deaths by Local Health area, spiking from 17 deaths per 100,000 people in 2020 to 119.3 in 2021, and 92.6 in 2022. While it remains to be seen what 2023 will bring, the province said in a press release that it believes the time is now to act and break the stigma around drug use.

“Once again, our agency is reporting on preventable losses of life in heart-breaking numbers,” said Lisa Lapointe, the province’s chief

coroner.

“We are nearing the seventh anniversary of the declaration of the public-health emergency into substance-related harms, and the drug-poisoning crisis continues to cost lives and communities at an unprecedented rate. Toxic drugs pose a constant and ever-present danger to anyone who uses drugs. Anyone using any substance purchased on the unregulated illicit drug market is at risk of serious harm or death.”

At least 11,195 lives have been lost since April 2016, when the province declared a illicit drug toxicity public-health emergency. Drug toxicity spiked suddenly that year, when fentanyl flooded the drug market, contaminating the supply with the drug. Fentanyl can be up to 100 times more potent than morphine. The province estimated that more than 80,000 people in B.C. struggle

with an opioid use disorder, and that thousands of others regularly use stimulants such as cocaine.

Along with the decriminalization of some drugs in limited quantities at the end of January, the provincial government said it is taking steps to reinforce evidence-based treatment options, increase access to safer supply, and implement other essential harm-reduction tools to end the ongoing crisis. Drug-checking services and overdose prevention sites have become more common across the province, including in the Nicola Valley.

ASK Wellness Society offers drug checking services at their downtown Quilchena Avenue location.

“We know that in order to connect people to treatment and recovery, we must first keep them alive,” said Jennifer Whiteside, B.C’s minister of mental health and addictions.

“That’s why we are continuing to invest and expand

harm-reduction measures throughout the province to separate people from the toxic, unpredictable illicit drug supply. This year’s budget commits $184 million to support our response to toxic drugs, including adding more options for safe prescription alternatives, like diacetylmorphine.”

Only two deaths have been recorded at overdose prevention sites during

the toxic drug crisis, including one in January of this year, and one in 2022. In 2021, fentanyl was found to be present in 84.4 per cent of all illicit drug toxicity deaths, while cocaine was present in 44 per cent, and meth/ amphetamines was found in 40.8 per cent. Whiteside noted that access to safe prescription alternatives is vital in fighting the crisis.

• Passionate about engaging and caring for youth

• Interested in suppor ting children and youth who identify as LGBTQ2S+

• Sk illed in caring for children and youth with complex suppor t needs

• Interested in providing weekend respite care for children and youth

To learn more about becoming a foster caregiver visit FosterNow.ca

Photo/Herald File

Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club engaging the community

Members of the Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club (NVFGC) are excited to share their upcoming events with the community as they gear up for a number of initiatives for people of all ages. NVFGC has been a part of the community since 1960, and is a non-profit association. The club said they have many regular events that happen monthly, all throughout the year.

“We’ve got our regular events like the meetings every third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. out at the gun range where our clubhouse is,” said BJ Moore, president of the club.

“The meetings are open to everyone, but if you don’t have a membership you would have to either come with someone who has a fob for the gate or call ahead of time so that someone can meet you at the gate to let you in. We also have a

workbee out at the gun range every second Sunday of the month where we work on a number of different projects such as building a new shooting shed and maintenance of the existing equipment.If someone has a special skill set like carpentry we always appreciate the extra help, as a bonus for the people who attend the workbees or the regular monthly meetings, the attendees get a $10 off coupon towards their next membership.”

Whether you are a member or a non-member, the NVFGC is excited to promote their Father’s Day family fishing event. The event is held at KentuckyAlleyne Provincial Park, which is only 30 minutes away from Merritt.

Kentucky and Alleyne are the names of two different lakes located in the provincial park. Their naturally turquoise hue comes from the amount of

silt (tiny grains of quartz that can be scattered in the water, ice, or air) that is in the water. Silt bends light beams differently than water which leads to the magnificent blue and green color that some lakes have.

“The big summer event we have is the Father’s Day family fishing event out at Kentucky-Alleyne.

It is hosted by the club but is a provincial event put on by the Freshwater Fishing Society of B.C. (FFSBC) and we work together to promote and put on this event,” said Moore.

“As always, this event is on Father’s Day Sunday and runs from approximately 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. We have fishing rods and fishing gear as well as people who can help out kids who may not be familiar with fishing and need a hand. We are tied to the day so that means whether it’s rain, sun or snow we will be out there.

The weather in Merritt can be different than at the provincial park so bring a raincoat, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.”

Having just finished up their annual fishing derby, which was held at Stump Lake for the first time, Moore explained that he is grateful for all the volunteers and sponsors that continuously provide support as they are the “lifeblood of the organization.”

“I’d like to thank all the volunteers and participants at our recent fishing derby out at Stump Lake, and a big thanks to everyone who works behind the scenes to make sure these events can happen now and in the future. It is always a pleasure working with you,” noted Moore.

The club said that they are looking to try and bring some more events to the community, but until they

have confirmation on all of the details, they cannot share what they may be at this time. Moore urged those interested to keep their eye on the club’s Facebook page.

GATHERING OF WARRIORS

Winners of Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club’s 2023 ice fishing derby at Stump Lake. Photo/BJ Moore

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Drivers reminded to be cautious after time change

The “spring forward” time change happened on Sunday, March 12, with RSWBC reminding Merrritt drivers to exercise caution with the extra fatigue. Photo/Herald File

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According to a B.C. based road safety program, the ‘spring forward’ time change can increase crash risk for drivers on roads across the province. Road Safety at Work (RSAW), a WorkSafeBC funded initiative managed by the Justice Institute of BC, is reminding Merritt drivers to be mindful of their ‘body clocks’ as their wall clocks move forward.

“The switch to Daylight Savings Time could lead to more fatigued drivers— and more risk of crashes—on ThompsonNicola roads as body clocks take time to catch up with alarm clocks,” says Trace Acres, RSW program director.

“The time change on March 12, 2023 can disrupt circadian rhythms, the process that regulates our sleeping cycle. It

can cause some people to lose sleep for several days. The resulting fatigue affects their ability to safely drive. Fatigue is a type of impairment that reduces mental and physical performance. Research shows it’s a contributing factor in about 20 percent of crashes.”

Researchers have cited a six percent increase in fatal vehicle collisions in the U.S. through the first five work days of daylight savings time.

“Our study provides additional, rigorous evidence that the switch to daylight saving time in spring leads to negative health and safety impacts,” said Celine Vetter, visiting assistant professor of integrative physiology at Boulder’s University of Colorado.

“These effects on fatal traffic accidents are real, and these deaths can be

prevented.”

Acres says that fatigued drivers are more likely to take risks and forget or ignore normal checks or procedures. They’re less able to judge distance, speed, and time. They’re also less able to absorb critical driving information and respond to it.

“Reacting a fraction of a second faster or slower can be the difference between a near miss and a serious, costly crash,” Acres says.

He adds that fact rings especially true at this time of year, when snowy and icy roads make driving hazardous.

For the thousands of people who drive for work in the ThompsonNicola region, fatigue adds to the challenge. Whether they drive full time, part time, or occasionally –such as to pick up supplies or call on a client – driv -

ing may be the most dangerous thing they do on the job. Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of traumatic workrelated fatalities in BC.

Acres says that since vehicles used for work in BC are deemed workplaces, employers are responsible for the safety of any employee who drives on the job. Employees who are too fatigued to drive safely have a legal responsibility to refuse unsafe work.

B.C. had 576,923 vehicles insured for business use at the end of 2021, according to ICBC. In addition, vehicles insured for pleasure use can be used for business up to six days per month.

“Fatigue can affect all drivers regardless of age, skill level, or experience,” says Acres.

“Whether you drive for several hours each day

Continued Page 17

#104 1475 Fair view Rd, Penticton inside the historic Canner y Trade Centre

Accepting Consignments: ART, POTTERY small furnishings

KINDERGARTEN 2023 STUDENT REGISTRATION

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

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

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

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

REGISTRATION SCHEDULE

Monday to Friday: March 6 to 17, 2023

For September, 2023:

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

Parents should register their child at the neighbourhood school.

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

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

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

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

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

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

- 9931

NICOLA-CANFORD ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2172

COLLETTVILLE ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2230

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

or just a few minutes, there is plenty you can do to improve your own safety and help make sure you’re not involved in a crash because of fatigue.”

RSW recommends the following tips for drivers to get enough sleep during the time change:

- Go to bed early in the days immediately before and after the time change, aiming for 7 to 8 hours each night.

- Keep your energy levels up by eating good meals and healthy snacks.

St. Patrick’s Day in the Valley

- Don’t leave driving until the end of the day when you’re bound to be tired.

- Avoid distractions by putting away your phone.

- Follow your employer’s instructions for controlling the fatigue risks and only drive when necessary, using alternatives such as virtual meetings, to eliminate the need to get behind the wheel.

Know before you go by planning trips using www.DriveBC. ca for road and weather reports.

Saint Patrick’s Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious celebration held annually on March 17. The foremost patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick died on March 17 in

the 5th century. Orginially for celebrating Saint Patrick and his contributions to an early Ireland, St.Patrick’s Day became a more general celebration of Irish culuture and heritage when the festiv -

ity reached the United Sates alongside early Irish immigrants.

D o

green-dyed beer, and gathering with friends and loved ones to celebrate. While no official celebrations are planned in the Nicola Valley this year, we wish you a Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

A ‘lucky’ four leaf clover is one of the many symbols associated with St. Patrick’s Day. Photo/ Unsplash

Merritt Centennials outscored 19-3 in two weekend games

Wenatchee, scored the final scores of the period before the buzzer sounded at 9-0.

The Merritt Centennials failed to gain any points off of both their games this weekend, adding two more losses to the board with just four games now remaining in the BCHL season. With their 12–33–3–2 record and their 15 point deficit to the Trail Smoke Eaters, the Cents are once again the lone Interior Division team without a playoff spot this season.

Cents at Wild - Home Game, Friday, March 11

The Cents hosted the first of their two games this weekend, hosting the league’s lone American team at

the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. The Cents’ roster, marred by injury and stacked with AP players, struggled to make any headway throughout the complete derailment at the hands of the Wenatchee Wild.

The first period began with Conor Sullivan in goal for Merritt, with the defensive line mostly unable to protect him. The Wild opened up scoring at the 3:50 mark, with defenseman Lucas Marshall scoring his first BCHL goal. Ean Somoza, one of Wenatchee’s leading scorers, followed the goal with another just two minutes

later to make the game 2-0. The rest of the period would see only one more goal, also by Somoza, who scored his second of the night quickly despite Wenatchee being shorthanded following a boarding penalty. Going into the second period, the score was 3-0.

The second period started off slow, but things were quickly back in Wenatchee’s favour following a cross-checking penalty against the Cents’ Diego Johnson. During the power play, Parker Murray with the Wild found the back of the net to make the score 4-0. Less than a full minute later, Wenatchee’s

Cade Littler would increase his team’s lead to five points with a quick shot to the back of Sullivan’s net. After some defensive play, the Wild would rally again to increase the score to 6-0, with centre Alexios Georgaklis scoring the goal. That would be the last straw for Conor Sullivan, who was pulled in favour of Cents AP goalie Ryder Gregga, making his BCHL debut. After a decent start, Gregga let another goal in by Ean Somoza, who completed his hat trick and made the score 7-0 following a Cents crosschecking call. Jason Stefanek and Micah Berger, both of

The third period was heavier in penalties than it was in scoring, with the Cents picking up six total minutes in the sin bin, while Wenatchee served none. Jason Stefanek scored his second goal of the night to open up scoring in the third period, making it a double digit 10-0 game for Wenatchee just 44 seconds in. Scoring would cease until halfway through the period, when Micah Berger scored once again to put the Wild 11 points up. Just 18 seconds later, Luke Weilandt would make the score 12-0 as spectators cringed at the sight of the scoreboard. Looking to make it a baker’s dozen, the Wild scored once more before the final buzzer, with Garrett Szydlowski’s goal making it a 13-0 shutout final. Conor Sullivan saved 19/25 in the loss, while AP goalie Ryder Gregga saved 16/23.

Cents at Vees - Road Game, Saturday, March 12

After the catastrophic loss to Wenatchee, the Cents hit the road to take on the Penticton Vees at their home South Okanagan Events Centre. Playing in front of a crowd of nearly 3000, the pressure was on. Conor Sullivan was back behind the crease following a tough loss the night before. The Cents struck first this game, with Cents defenseman Sam Lewis finding the back of the Vees net just over two minutes into the game. The goal, which was Lewis’ fist in the league, put the Cents at an early 1-0 lead. Less than two minutes later, Josh Nadeau, Vees forward and leading scorer alongside his brother Bradly Nadeau, would find the net behind Sullivan for the equalizer. Things soon got chippy with Frank Djurasevic of the Vees and Centennial Carter Schmidt both finding themselves in hot water following a confrontation.

Late in the period, following a boarding call against the Cents’ Dylan Emerson, Bradly

Nadeau found the back of the net to make it 2-1 during the man advantage.

The second period was one of the best the Cents have had against Penticton this season, limiting the Vees to just one goal, while answering with one of their own.

Nic DeGraves of Penticton opened up scoring at the 4:06 mark, making the score 3-1 for the Vees. The Cents answered back two minutes later, with Maddix McCagherty scoring his first BCHL goal in 15 games with the team. The remainder of the period saw little action, with the exception of a four minute high-sticking penalty against Penticton’s Dovar Tinling. The score was 3-2 moving into the third period.

Keeping the score within one goal, the Cents were hungry to get back into the lead and pick up their first win against Penticton this season in the third period. Unfortunately for Merritt, Bradly Nadeau would open up scoring at the 2:46 mark to make it 4-2 for the

Vees. However, the Cents were able to keep the comeback dream alive a short while longer thanks to a goal by Diego Johnson just a few minutes later. Carter Schmidt garnered himself another misconduct penalty not long after, leading officials to expel him from the remainder of the game, along with a stint in the sin bin for Mark Thurston on a blow to the head call. Things only got worse from there, with Josh Nadeau capitalizing on the man advantage to make it a 5-3 score. The Vees would only solidify this lead before the final buzzer, scoring one more by way of Brett Moravec’s empty net goal for a 6-3 final. Sullivan saved 54/59 in the tough loss.

Next week

The Cents hit the road for both of their games this coming weekend, heading south of the border to Wenatchee on Friday, before repatriating to Penticton the following night. The Cents play at 7:05 p.m. Friday, followed by a 6:00 p.m. puck drop on Saturday.

Cents defenseman Jonathan Wong sends the puck down the ice during Friday night’s shutout loss to the visiting Wenatchee Wild. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius Auer

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Community support is what makes the Cenntenials tick

(around 8,000) in the BCHL. So, it is baffling to sometimes think about how we still exist and how do we keep doing it year after year. We take pride in our diverse community. As a team, we try to engage everyone.”

As one enters the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, the home of Merritt Centennials, a banner proudly states: ‘BCHL’s longest continuously-run franchise’.However, what this doesn’t showcase is the unflinching support of the community that has helped the team sail for the last 50 years. The community had to pass a litmus test in the last couple of seasons when a decision was to be made whether to keep

going with the team or step aside this time with Merritt reeling under devastating floods, fire and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Despite these downturns, the community never stopped supporting the team,” says Kelly Bartch, president of the Merritt Centennials.

“They were the ones who said ‘let’s keep it going.’ It is indeed really unique for this community to do this. We are one of the smallest communities

He does not fail to highlight the proud moment for the community when local artist Kayla Philips’ designed Merritt Centennials Indigenous jersey was showcased during the Vancouver Canucks game recently.

“Nobody quits even if we have had a bad season,” says Bartch. “I still don’t fully understand what makes the community support the team relentlessly. We feel guilty when we don’t do well because we want them to give the best experience every time. A lot of businesses have suffered due to the downturns but

they still provide their support. We are working towards a selfsustainable model because as Kevin Rabbitt (Director of Operations and an ex-Centennials player) puts in, we can’t be playing around with other people’s money. We have to respect that.”

The ride was rough for the Centennials not just off the ice but on it too in the last few seasons.

The team managed just three wins each in the 2020-21 and 202122 seasons from 20 and 54 games, respectively. Their best showing came in the 2018-19 season when they finished second on the BCHL table. However, the team is yet to achieve the glory of the 1977-78 season where they topped the league with a record of 50-15-1 and 101 points.

There was a complete overhaul of the coaching

staff and players after the 2021 season, with Head Coach Curtis Toneff in charge of the ship and rebuilding the team.

“Any time you measure success, the biggest thing we want to see is improvement,” noted Toneff.

“This team has improved drastically from last season. It started off the ice last May and June where we got fresh faces involved. This team has established a good culture on the ice. The players like to be here, which is so crucial. We need to have more experience. This season we started off with an older team in terms of age. As the season went on, we went in with the younger players. To have success in this league, it is important to have experience and be a bit older.”

At the heart of the Merritt Centennials are its

hardcore fans and most loyal group of volunteers---the main reason for its longevity. From a group of six Merritt businessmen giving the Centennials their first ownership group back in 1974, the volunteers have since been the core.

Rusty Brewer is one of the longest serving volunteers of the Merritt Centennials since 1978.

“Given the small population we have, it becomes very difficult to operate a team because the expenses to run it are absolutely huge,” says Brewer, while lamenting that it is now incredibly tough to get volunteers.

“People gave their time and donated money to keep the show on. There are many old-time volunteers like me who just do it for the love of it. The local businesses are wonderful as they donate and

support the team wholeheartedly. Had it not been for the volunteers, probably this team would not have existed.”

While the businesses dug into their coffers to fund the Centennials, its volunteers conducted several fund-raising events like the parents weekend, and their ice-breakers to provide additional support to the team. The now defunct non-profit BoosterClub played a massive role in raising the funds.

“There were times when we raised over $75,000 in a year. If there was a team event planned, the Booster Club would support it. We would look after the food, the decoration etc. We did quite a bit of catering, weddings, and barbequing, and raised funds essentially through food.

Unfortunately, we had to shut the Booster Club

a couple of years ago as older people like myself could no longer do heavy duty fundraising and there was no one else who wanted to take it forward,” says Brewer, who now refers to herself as a member of the retired Booster Club. Ask her about the results not going in the team’s favor, she quips: “The team hasn’t done well in the last few seasons but we don’t look at it that way. In the end, yes it is about the results, but we want to tell them (the players) that we are right behind you and always give your best. We look forward with high hopes in the next game and the next season. I still wouldn’t quit if we didn’t do well this season. This is something that we all love doing for our team.”

2023 Grads lose out to parents, teachers in exhibition hockey game

The Merritt Secondary School (MSS) graduates of 2023 had a funfilled night February 22nd, having the opportunity to play in the yearly grad hockey game. The two-hour event included two hockey games, along with a mini skills competition during the halftime intermission. The event has been in the works since the beginning of the school year,

with parent Tanya Starrs leading the planning committee of the hockey game.

Starrs stated, “I really enjoyed planning and organizing this event for these kids. It was my way of contributing and volunteering my time towards their grade 12 year and of course an opportunity for my husband and I to beat my daughter Maya in a game of hockey!”

With a 50/50 draw and an apple pie auction, there was so much going on in the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena from 6-8pm to support the 2023 grads.

The game began with over 15 grads playing a 40 minute game against MSS staff, with even former teachers who came back just to play in the exciting battle on ice joinging in. With lots of laughs and penalties from both sides of

the ice, the teachers came out victorious with a 4-1 win over the students. Intermission consisted of group photos and a relay race, with each team (grads, teachers, and parents) having three players perform dives and spins as quickly as possible. After completing the hilarious event, teachers exited the ice while the parents stretched and warmed up for game number two. The grads again

fell short to the parents, losing 5-2, mainly due to penalty troubles. The game lasted 40 minutes, and ended with the entire bench from both teams on the ice at the same time for the final minute of the game.

“I felt this event was a fantastic turnout and a huge success,” Starrs added.

“It was a great opportunity for Grads to play against parents and teachers and have some fun! We had

the community band come out and play some music in the stands which was really nice. The stands were filled with parents, grandparents, and other

graduating students cheering their peers on.”

All players left the arena with smiles on their faces after a fun-filled two-hours.

The grads send a

huge thank you to all players, parent helpers, the audience, and volunteers for a successful and amusing evening.

The Cents are currently playing their 50th season in the community. Photo/Merritt Centennials

Harit Joshi MERRITTHERALD.COM

Maya Starrs HERALD JUNIOR REPORTER

The 2023 grad hockey game. Photo/Christina Jean Photography

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

Merritt Youth Soccer Association gearing up for the season

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

With registration closing soon for the upcoming Merritt Youth Soccer Association (MYSA) season, the Herald reached out to organizers to find out what players can expect this season. MYSA is a volunteer organization that invites children aged 3-12 the opportunity to learn and enjoy soccer with a team of dedicated volunteer coaches, which they are looking for more of to ensure a successful season on the pitch.

“We are always looking for more coaches, go to the MYSA website for more information and sign

up. If you can’t be a head coach then an assistant is appreciated too,” said Brandi Porada, vice president of MYSA.

“No experience [is] necessary, we offer a coaching clinic at the beginning of the season. We are also looking for people to referee games, but you’ll need to take one of the clinics held in Kamloops, if you haven’t already.”

While MYSA mostly focuses on friendly play for the benefit of experience, this year they hope to take a few teams to some out of town tournaments.

The MYSA said that if you have financial

difficulties but would like your child to have the opportunity to play this year, there is a program through Canadian Tire’s JumpStart initiative that might help, and it can be found on their website.

The organization is also thankful to all the stakeholders that keep the league going, including the sponsors they’ve received so far.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to get donations from businesses around the Merritt area to replace old and broken equipment,” said Porada.

“Grant from Nicola Chainsaw & Nicola Motorsports donated money to replace a soccer goal that was broken. The team at Merritt

Home Hardware donated hammers, spikes and pegs for keeping the nets up in the Merritt wind. James at Canadian Tire donated ball pumps and needles for all the coaches’ ball bags. We also got cash donations from Rock Solid Industries and Arnica Contracting to help with more equipment needed for this upcoming season. McDonald’s has been a big part by sponsoring the jerseys for all age groups, last year as well as this coming year. Thank you to all that have sponsored so far!”

In addition, Porada mentioned that all coaches and executive members are volunteers and that nothing would

be possible without their dedication. She gave a “big thank you” to President Molly Brigden, Vice-President Brandi Porada, Treasurer Heather Yastremsky, Secretary Chelsea Werrun, and Registrar & Web Admin Jonathan Cooke, also for each soccer division’s directors that make the teams and support the coaches throughout the season. With the season starting in the first week of April, MYSA has already finished their first aid kit fundraiser to help support the teams this year.

For more information on MYSA please visit their web

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WEL COME YOU

Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Ser vice Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m

Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre)

Sunday ser vice 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

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

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

Sacred Hear t Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St • 250-378-3772

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

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Ser vice Time ever y Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC)

1755 Coldwater Ave ( The Cadet Hall)

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

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church

1950 Max well St • 250-378-9502

Ser vice Time: Sundays 9:00 am and 11:00 am

The upcoming Merritt Youth Soccer Association season is sure to be a good one, being one of the first full seasons since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2019. Photos/Ian Webster, Herald File

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

The object of grieving is not to get over the loss but to get through it with new strengths, understanding and hope really to fully live your ‘new normal’.

Roger Paterson

January 12, 1930 - March 3, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of loving husband and father Roger Paterson on March 3rd at the age of 93.

He was born in Shediac New Brunswick to pare Robert and Dauphine and predeceased by his three brothers Henry, Alfred and Philip. Roger left school at an early age as he was tired of being disciplined for speaking English at the French catholic school he attended.

His early teen years saw him working on his brother Phil’s lobster boat, cutting pulp, farm laboring and a variety of other jobs would take him across country riding the rails at the age of 13. He joined the Canadian forces in Korea and after twelve months was seconded by the US for a couple of more months On his return he spent a year hospitalized in a sanitarium for T.B Upon his release he headed north and worked for awhile on the construction of the Goose Bay airstrip then hit the rails again to travel across Canada to B.C where he gained employment working at the Gang Ranch and others around Ashcroft, Hat Creek and Highland Valley

His other ventures included working underground, horse logging and even rodeoing for a short time with the likes of Kenny McLean, Dave Perry and Percy Minnabarriet

It was in Highland Valley that he met his wife Jackie while guiding hunters for her father After a couple of years, they settled in Spences Bridge while he worked on the new bridge Then deciding to make his own place he purchase 110 acres and the old station house of Clapperton in the Nicola Valley After fourteen years he left the fully developed from sage brush to Hay ranch to move to Merritt While never letting roots grow too deep for a particular place the family then moved to Alberta Four more places were purchased, improved and sold before settling in Lougheed Alberta for the last couple of years

Roger was always willing to help someone out and always appreciated the hand up he received from neighbors in the early years He leaves to mourn his wife of 63 years, 11 months, his sons John (Karin), Dale and daughter Julie (Garett) and grandson Caelan.

The family would very much like to thank the Home Care staff and nurses, Hardisty EMS, Dr David Hanton, Dr Stan Ahtemenciuc and the nurses at the Killam Hospital You all have done so much to make his last few months comfortable

No Funeral Service will be held. In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations may be made in Roger ’s name to his favorite charity STARS Air Ambulance

BECK, Vera

March 19, 1929 - February 21, 2023

Vera Delores (McLeod) Beck was born in Kamloops, BC March 18, 1929. She passed away peacefully in Penticton February 21, 2023, at the age of 93 years.

Vera will be remembered and sadly missed by her children Gail Anderson of Penticton, BC, Ron Close (Brenda) of Fresno, California, Mitzi Newton of Penticton, BC, Marlene Beck (Wes) of Warfield, BC, Brenda Bukkos (Alex) of Merritt, BC, and Pam Back (Randy) of Kamloops, BC.

She was sadly predeceased by her parents Scottie and Delores McLeod, husbands Bruce Close and Herb Beck, and her great grand-daughter Ashley Prairie Chicken.

Vera’s main joy in her life was camping in the bush, picking berries, trips to Reno, Nevada with the Old Time Fiddlers, and Harmon Lake campouts.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, March 25 at 1:00 at Cawston Community Hall. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of JOAN

ROWLAND

April 4, 1931 - March 7, 2023

Joan was predeceased by husband Stan, sons: Lance and Mark and granddaughter Shelby

She is survived by daughter Dawn, sons: Brent (Janet), Craig (Ann), Blair (Valerie), 1 sister, 2 brothers, 11 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

As a long time member of the Merritt Seniors Assocation, Joan enjoyed volunteering and playing bingo and crib

In the last years she was happy to be part of the Adult Day Service Program.

Joan loved her crosswords, jigsaw puzzles and for many years she was knitting something special for someone. No service by request.

Merritt Funeral Chapel

Success for ALL Learners, Today and Tomorrow

CURRENT JOB OPPOR TUNITIES

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

• must have a valid dr iver ’s licence

• landscaping exper ience an asset but not required.

• hardwor king individual

• exper ience with power tools

Please fax resumes to 250-378-4166 or email: tlcpond1@telus.net

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

T he Nic ola Valle y F o o d B ank ha s t wo s t a f f p o s it ion vac ancie s t o fill T he s e paid p o s it ion s pr ov ide opp or t unit ie s f or p ot e n t ial c andida t e s w ho ar e c ommunit y s e r v ic emot i va t e d and w ho ar e in t e r e s t e d in mak ing a p o s it i ve c on t r ibu t ion t o t he we ll - b e ing o f t he F o o d B ank ’s clie n t s

IN V E N T ORY C O ORDIN AT OR

Unde r t he dir e c t ion o f t he G e ne r al Manag e r, t he Inve n t or y C o or dina t or is r e s p on s ible f or t he or g aniz a t ion and or de r l y main t e nanc e o f pr o duc t inve n t or y, including dail y r e p or t ing t o t he G M on s t a t us o f s upplie s and e quipme n t T his p o s it ion wor k s ve r y clo s e l y w it h t he t e am o f F o o d B ank volun t e e r s a t t he he ar t o f t he dail y op e r a t ion s in or de r t o e f ficie n t l y me e t t he ne e ds o f clie n t s T he inc umb e n t als o pr ov ide s g e ne r al dir e c t ion r e t a s k pr ior it ie s t o t he Inve n t or y A s s is t an t

IN V E N T ORY A S S I S TA N T

T his p o sit ion ha s t wo di f f e r e n t ar e a s o f r e s p on s ibilit y : 1 Op e r a t ion o f t he F o o d De s k dur ing clie n t ac c e s s hour s (10 a m t o 1 p.m ) 2 A s s is t an t t o t he Inve n t or y C o or dina t or T he incumb e n t is r e s p on s ible f or F o o d De s k op e r a t ion s (pr ov iding clie n t s w it h pr o duc t s), a s s is t s w it h t he handling o f pr o duc t inve n t or y, and c an als o b e c alle d up on t o a s s is t t he De li ve r y Van Dr i ve r w it h pr o duc t pick- up and de li ve r y T his p o s it ion wor k s ve r y clo s e l y w it h t he t e am o f F o o d B ank volun t e e r s a t t he he ar t o f t he dail y op e r a t ion s in or de r t o e f ficie n t l y me e t t he ne e ds o f clie n t s IMP OR TA N T N O T E : In t e r e s t e d applic an t s mus t r e ad t he f ull job de s cr ipt ion s w hich ar e available a t t he F o o d B ank on Q uilche na A ve (har d c opy) or available b y e - mail up on r e que s t (f o o dbank @ t e lus ne t) P le a s e s ubmit your le t t e r o f applic a t ion ac c ompanie d b y a c ur r e n t r e s ume w it h r e f e r e nc e s t o De r landa He w t on, G e ne r al Manag e r, Nic ola Valle y F o o d B ank C l os ing d a te: Op e n un t il c andida t e cho s e n

LEGAL NOTICE

Jeremy Scott. Payment for your storage Units #11, #16, & #23 is overdue. Payment is required on or before March 27, 2023. after which all contents will be disposed of. The items will be disposed of after 30 days of the notice being served or posted, unless the person being notified takes possession, establishes a right to possession, or makes an application to the court to establish a right to possession.

Contain

1750 Hill St Merritt, BC V1K 0A1

ACROSS

1. Belonging to a thing

4. Pass or go by 10. Partner to cheese 11. Subjects

12. U.S. State (abbr.)

14. Bits per inch

15. Forest-dwelling deer

16. Illinois city

18. A salt or ester of acetic acid

22. Wholly unharmed

23. Cuddled

24. Bane

1. Stain one’s hands

2. Nocturnal hoofed animals

3. Back condition

4. Popular movie alien

5. City of Angels

6. Peaks

7. Infantry weapons

8. Left

9. Atomic #99

12. Told a good yarn

13. Vale

17. Resistance unit

26. Global investment bank (abbr.)

27. Oh my gosh!

28. Arrive

30. Famed Spanish artist

31. Home of “Frontline”

34. Group of quill feathers

36. Keyboard key

37. Army training group

39. Detail

40. Pole with flat blade

41. Football play

42. Makes unhappy

19. Aquatic plant

20. Bluish greens

21. About some Norse poems

25. Reinforces

29. Egyptian mythological goddess

31. Supportive material

32. Subatomic particle

33. Expired bread

35. Cereal grain

38. Goes against 41. Walkie __

48. Island in Hawaii

50. Back in business

51. Of an individual

52. Painful chest condition

53. Tropical American monkey

54. Matchstick game

55. For instance

56. Even again

58. Popular beverage

59. Evaluate 60. Time units (abbr.)

43. One who does not accept

44. Beliefs

45. Indicates near

46. Brazilian NBA star

47. Grab quickly

49. Romantic poet

56. College dorm worker 57. Set of data

is looking for a FULL-TIME LABOURER $19/hour

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

TONY LUC K Ph: 604-217-5825