March 9 - 2023

The northern lights lit up the Nicola Valley night sky recently, a rare phenomenon that delighted and surprised many Merritt locals. EDITORIAL/PAGE 6

or you fu bab es and has p en fu park ng fo you RV and toys Home s u en y rented on a mon h o mon h ba

1986 Douglas Street

MLS#171046

nc ude new hot wate tank n 2021 u nace 2021 oof n +/- 2016 Home s p umbed o ent a a/c Tenants n p ace

MLS#171598 $499,000 Wo h the wa ! Br ght con empora y k chen, 4 bdrm 2 ful bath es dence w h cen ra a/c Ou doors fea u es leve wel kep beaut ful y landscaped comp e e y enced ya d Mu eve deck hea ed shop ga den shed, sepa ate RV pa k ng

2899 Cranna Crescent

2876 Cranna Crescent MLS#171192

Mixed reactions to new provincial budget

Single parents will receive up to $500 per year in addition to the increase, which will also be delivered in July.

the BC Chamber of Commerce.

For all your landscaping needs call the professionals at Serving Merritt with Excellence for over 30 yrs.

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The 2023 B.C. budget has been released, and government said it focuses on creating affordable housing, growing a clean economy, providing health and mentalhealthcare, and creating opportunities—especially for those most affected by global inflation— to access help with costs.

“B.C. is a great place to live, but people are facing real challenges – not only from global inflation and the pandemic, but from ongoing and systemic challenges,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Finance.

“This year’s budget helps protect people who can’t afford today’s high prices and takes action on the issues people care about, like finding affordable housing and accessing health care.”

Budget 2023

includes new investments over three years aimed at strengthening the healthcare system. Nearly $6.4 billion has been allocated to bolster B.C.’s healthcare workforce and create better support for healthcare workers and family doctors. Included in this investment is $1 billion in funding to expand mentalhealth and addiction services in light of B.C.’s ongoing toxic drug crisis.

Conroy also noted that her budget includes the largest three-year housing investment in B.C. history, noting her government is focused on providing more homes for people who rent, Indigenous people, and middle-income families. Renters in B.C. will be eligible to receive up to $400 a year through an income-tested renter’s tax credit

starting in 2024. The credit is expected to benefit more than 80% of renter households.

“Budget 2023 reinforces that affordable housing is a key priority for this government,” said Jill Atkey, CEO of BC NonProfit Housing Association.

“Investments and interventions are critical to protect the existing affordability of our rental stock at the same time that we’re building new units and providing supports to those without homes – this is a budget that reflects the investments that we’ve been calling for and will be welcome news for the community housing sector.”

Approximately 75% of families with children are eligible for the new BC Family Benefit. Starting in July 2023, eligible families will see a 10 percent increase in monthly payments.

Roughly $1.3 billion is aimed at supporting reduced costs for people, which includes free prescription contraception for B.C residents, and expanding K-12 food programs. The budget also features additional financial support for postsecondary students, people receiving income and disability assistance, and foster families and other caregivers.

This year’s budget supports the Future Ready plan, which the province says makes postsecondary education and skills accessible and affordable in response to the biggest challenge heard from businesses across B.C. - the need for people.

Future Ready investments will increase the amount of training seats by the thousands and will offer a grant for short-term training programs to train people for high-demand fields. This plan includes funding for small and medium sized businesses to find and implement technology and practical solutions to labour market challenges, and is supported by

“The BC Chamber of Commerce is optimistic the new Future Ready Plan will provide smalland medium-sized businesses with support to address critical labour force challenges,” said Fiona Famulak, president and CEO of the BC Chamber.

The Climate Action Tax Credit will expand to help people with low to moderate incomes offset the carbon tax, which increases in April 2023. B.C. noted that the majority of people are expected to receive more through the enhanced credit than they pay in increased carbon tax by 2030. People with lower incomes will have higher payments. Before the increase, a fourperson family could receive a maximum of $500 a year. In July 2023, a fourperson family could receive a maximum of $900.

Although the BC Chamber of Commerce is supportive of the Future Ready Plan, they have a different view of how the Climate Action Tax Credit will be affecting British Columbians over the next seven years. They also voiced

concerns with the lack of direct support for businesses in the new budget, adding that healthy businesses are needed as part of a healthy community.

“Of particular concern to smalland medium-sized businesses is the increase to the carbon tax of $15 per tonne per year through 2030 with little to offset the costs they will incur,” said Famulak.

“This is going to impact our supply chains and raise costs of producing goods in British Columbia.”

Conroy is confident that the 2023 budget is making investments in the interest of the future of all British Columbians.

“We know there are some economic headwinds ahead of us as the global economy shifts in response to the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and rising costs,” Conroy added.

“That’s not a signal for our government to pull back and cut services – it’s a signal that we need to keep making smart investments so that we can continue to be there for British Columbians and build the

From March 29,until April 4, 2023 a mobile screening unit provided by BC Cancer will be available in the parking lot beside Romeo’s No Frills at 2760 Forksdale Ave.

Road Safety at Work BC is reminding Merritt drivers that the one hour forward time change on Sunday, March 12, can have serious affects on motor vehicle crash risk indicators.

more

future we all want.”

Finance Minister Katrine Conroy table the provincial budget for 2023 in the BC Legislature last week to mixed reactions. Photo/Herald File

Forestry protests continue as local permits still not issued

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Another week has passed, and representatives of Aspen Planers’ United Steelworkers union say they still have not heard back from Forestry Minister Bruce Ralston regarding the ongoing curtailments and closures at Aspen’s Merritt saw mill. The mill, along with many others like it in

B.C., has been shuttered for weeks at a time multiple times over the past number of months. While the causes of the closures, both permanent and indefinite, vary across the province, Aspen has attributed their curtailments to a lack of timber supply. The company has been openly critical of what it believes to

be a “unnecessarily complicated and opaque” process for obtaining cutting permit, as they wait to hear back on the status of cutting permits that were applied for over one year ago. While the Ministry of Forests has told Aspen Planers executives that the permits require further referral and time to process following concerns from a

number of local First Nations, workers with the mill haven’t heard anything despite multiple attempts to connect.

“I sent another letter off on Wednesday, and still not a thing,” said Bryan Halford, chair of Aspen’s local USW chapter.

Halford said he has been trying for months now to get

Local man missing say RCMP

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

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating Miguel Mack, who was reported missing to police on March 3, 2023.

Mack is

described as a First Nations male who is 34 years old, 180 centimetres (5’10”), 90kg (200lbs), with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen

wearing a burgundy hoodie with white writing on it, dark pants, and a toque. Mack was last seen in Merritt on February 27, 2023.

Anyone with information on

Mack’s whereabouts is asked to contact their local detachment, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). The Merritt RCMP detachment can be reached at 250-378-4262.

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.

PL E A SE DIREC T YOUR A PPL IC AT ION OR REQUES T FOR FUR T HER INFOR M AT ION TO nicolavalleyrodeoassociation@gmail.com

Miguel Mack, a Merritt man, was last seen on February 27, 2023.

Photo/Merritt RCMP

Approximately two dozen Aspen Planers employees and local forestry contractors were present for the fourth iteration of their “Free the Permits” protest. Lane Robinson/Herald

See TWO WEEKS Page 8

Quilchena Canna Company

EDITORIAL

Northern lights show their colours in southern B.C.

pen all the time?

The ThompsonNicola region recently experienced a valiant display from the aurora borealis (the northern lights), but why doesn’t this hap-

From February 26 to 28th 2023 Merritt was able to see the northern lights in full display. The northern lights are a phenomenon that is best explained by thinking about energy. The sun, at the center of our solar system, is one of the largest sources of energy that scientists know of and sometimes it releases energy in

the form of charged particles. These particles travel through space and scientists refer to them as solar winds. When the particles come into contact with certain elements in Earth’s outer atmosphere, such as oxygen and nitrogen the result is a burst of colorful energy. This burst of energy can be seen from all over Earth, but is best seen from the northern and southern poles. The

poles have a higher electromagnetic field which draws the solar winds to it, but every so often the solar wind released from the sun is large enough that the resultant energy release can be seen from many locations in lower latitudes.

Luckily for Merritt just such an event occurred last week and many individuals were able to witness the stunning phenomenon.

LANE ROBINSON HERALD REPORTER

The northern lights made a spectacular appearance in the Nicola Valley Skyline on the evening on February 28, 2023. Photo/Leanne Cleaveley

LETTERS to the editor

A thank you to Nicola Valley Hospital staff

Editor,

Over the last 3 years especially, our family has spent countless hours in the emergency room at the Nicola Valley hospital. Our experiences have been varied and sometimes downright scary. On Tuesday morning, January 30th, 2023 my mother was, once again, taken by ambulance to the ER department of the hospital. It was crazy busy and the staff were running in all directions. Fortunately, there was a room available for my mother who was having severe

difficulties breathing as she was in the final stages of COPD.

Over the next 4 days Mom’s caregivers were her wonderful doctor Dr. Goetz and one of her other favorites Dr. Fenrich, plus 5 amazing nurses that cared for her exceptionally well. These

5 nurses were absolutely wonderful with Mom; they made her laugh and treated her with great kindness, plus they were very tolerant of the family members that were at her bedside day and night. The

“episodes” that Mom went

gling to breathe... were terrifying for us and they helped her through with great care and concern for her comfort.

Michelle, Danielle, Jai, James and Robert, thank you all so very much for making a very difficult situation a little less scary! We are truly blessed to have you working in our hospital.

On the morning of the 5the day Mom was moved to a room on the other ward so that she could spend her final time surrounded by family in peace and quiet. Janine was the nurse who came to

look after not just Mom, but all of us! What an incredible human being she is. From the second Mom arrived in her room Janine talked to her with such respect and dignity, even though Mom was not conscious. Every time she came in to check on Momwhich was very often- she always spoke to Mom and explained everything she was doing, whether she was fuffling the pillows, or repositioning Mom so she didn’t get sore, or giving her some medication. It was so incredibly heartwarming!

Even after Mom took her last breath, before Janine began listening to her heart, she continued to speak to her and told her she was just going to check and see how she was doing. Amazing! Mom was unconscious all that day, but I know she could hear us talking, telling stories, laughing, her great grandson singing her the Bingo song and every word that Janine spoke directly to her—with respect, honor and dignity...an absolute blessing!Janine, we are ever so grateful for your amazing

care of our mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, greatgrandmother and friend. That day will forever be etched in our hearts. Thank you so much to all these wonderful Doctors and nurses for helping to make a very sad day just a little bit more beautiful!

Catherine Graham & Family Merritt, B.C.

FromtheHerald archives: March, 1973

MERRITT ELKS TO SPONSOR A SENIOR BUS

TOUR

It was agreed at the last regular meeting of the Merritt Elks Lodge that they would sponsor the next bus trip being planned for the Merritt Senior Citizens.

The Senior Citizens enjoyed at least a couple of tours last year through the courtesy of localclub support and expressed sincere enjoyment of the trips.

A commitment to yourself on Intl. Women’s Day

KERSTIN AUER

Yesterday was International Women’s Day and I could fill a whole page with my

thoughts and feelings about it, from progress that has been made to work that still needs to be done. Instead, to keep this at around 350 words, I will share my best Women’s Day memory with you.

It was in 1997 in the village of Rosolina, just south of Venice, Italy. I was pregnant with my first child, had just split up with my then-husband, and decided to go

to Italy where my family had a vacation home. I drove from Germany, where I lived at the time, and stopped at a tiny tavern about half an hour from my destination. The tavern was filled with women celebrating Festa della Donna and I took a seat at the last available table. I sat alone, decompressing after a long drive across the Alps; I ordered some Penne Arrabiata and let the Italian chatter

wash over me. The women were eating, drinking, laughing, cheering each other on, celebrating. The room was filled with an extraordinary energy and while each of those women most certainly had her own set of challenges, you would not have known it that night. They had nothing but agency. There was no doubt in my mind that they were in full control

of their lives and their actions. They owned the place. I was so inspired that I decided to always show up with the same kind of agency, from that day forward. Not asking for permission, not apologizing and making myself small to try and fit in and not offend anyone.

For the last 26 years I’ve thought about that night in the little tavern in Rosolina every year on International Women’s

LETTERS POLICY

Day and have renewed my commitment to myself to live my life with agency. I’m grateful and privileged to be able to make that choice and I want to remind you that you, right now, have that choice as well. In fact, you have the obligation to do so and inspire other women to do the same. Here’s to strong women. We know them. We are them.

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.

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

‘Two weeks and then that’s it’

From Page 6

through to Minister Bruce Ralston, as he believes the Minister’s attention is directly required to resolve the supply issues and get his fellow employees back to work. Without new cutting permits, the mill can only run for a limited time on imported coastal cedar logs.

“We’re back to work next week for possibly two weeks, and then we’re back down again,” noted Halford.

“It looks like there’s lots of wood

in the mill, but there’s two weeks worth, and then that’s it.”

Officials with AP Group, Aspen’s parent company, recently told the Herald that they are now aware of the concerns of local First Nations regarding their cutting permit applications, and look to engage them in finding solutions. The Herald has reached out to multiple bands for comment.

Although AP Group officials said

they finally heard from the province after months of virtually no communications on the status of the permits, employees represented by the union feel they have been left ignored and in the dark by the Ministry of Forests.

Halford noted that the “Free the Permit” protests will continue until new permits are issued to Aspen Planers, and the mill can maintain a steady timber supply. He noted that the current supply issues create uncertainty

for both workers who rely on the income, and the company, who recently invested in upgrades to the Merritt mill site.

“The company just spent a big chunk of money getting new innovations into the mill, so we can keep running better and produce better lumber,” added Halford.

“We don’t know if that was a mistake or not. Are we going to have the lumber to run and pay for it?”

SD58 rolling out daycare pilot

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Board of Education of Merritt’s School District No.58 (NicolaSimilkameen) has announced that childcare will be coming to a select few of their school locations.

SD58 is participating in a pilot program called Seamless Day, a Kindergarten pilot program intended to create a seamless childcare experience for kindergarten students by offering both before and after school care within kinder-

garten classrooms.

“The team of educators includes one kindergarten teacher and two Early Child Educators (ECE),” says SD58.

“With minimum transitions and a collaborative approach to the day, students are expected to excel in all aspects of their development.”

The school board has secured two locations to run Seamless Day within their district: Diamond Vale Elementary School in Merritt

and John Allison Elementary School in Princeton.

While the program is created with Kindergarten at the forefront, if seats are not filled, they may be able to accommodate siblings and/or children in grades one and two. They are currently in the licensing phase and once this process is complete they can begin staffing.

In addition to their Seamless Day project, School District No.58 (NicolaSimilkameen) is in the process of applying for a grant to expand child

care in Princeton. Through their grant, they hope to create an additional 44 childcare seats through a renovation project at Riverside Learning Center. They look forward to sharing plans as they finish their grant application and begin renovations.

For more information, contact District Vice Principal of Early Learning and Childcare Daniella Bennie at dbennie@sd58.bc.ca, or alternatively call the School Board Office at 250-3785161.

GATHERING OF WARRIORS

Interior Health warns of avalanche risk

March

As temperatures increase and snowpack starts to shift, Interior Health is reminding users of B.C.’s vast backcountry to be vigilant of significant avalanche risks. With avalanche season in the province only about halfway through, B.C. finds itself already having eclipsed the 10-year average for avalanche deaths.

During the past 10 years, approximately 73% of all Canadian avalanche fatalities have occurred in B.C. The latest set of fatalities involved three German tourists that were killed in an avalanche while heli-skiing near Invermere on March 1, 2023.

Police said 10 people were caught in the Wednesday slide, with four injured and three killed. Local health authority officials are speaking out to warn British Columbians about the increasing risk

of avalanche.

“Being caught in an avalanche is a life-threatening situation that has already claimed twelve lives in the Interior Health region this season,” said Dr. Fatemeh Sabet, medical health officer, Interior Health.

“Avalanche Canada continues to forecast a dangerous snowpack. There have been more than double the number of avalanche fatalities compared to the previous season and we are only halfway through the season.

We urge everyone thinking of venturing into the backcountry to check www.avalanche.ca and make conservative choices, avoid dangerous terrain, and consider delaying a backcountry trip until conditions are safer.”

Backcountry users are also reminded to avoid steep, shallow, and rocky terrain

features where the snowpack transitions from thick to thin. Groups in the backcountry should be equipped with common avalanche safety equipment such as a shovel, probe, and transceiver, and have the proper training on how to use them. Backcountry users should also limit their exposure to hazards such as gullies, cliffs, and trees.

Representatives with Avalanche Canada, a nonprofit and nongovernment organization looking to end avalanche injuries and fatalities in Canada, said this season’s conditions are tricky and complex.

“A widespread weak layer exists near the base of the snowpack throughout the Interior and it’s been the cause of most of the fatal avalanche incidents this season,” said Ryan Buhler, forecast program supervisor with Avalanche Canada.

“This layer is

deep enough that we are unlikely to see clues of instability, like nearby avalanche activity, ‘whumpfing’ or cracking snow. The only way to minimize exposure is to select low angle, low consequence terrain and avoid areas where an avalanche could propagate widely. It’s likely that this widespread weak layer will persist for the remainder of the season.”

Avalanche Canada delivers approximately 85 percent of all of its offered services in B.C., including avalanche forecasting. They expect with warmer temperatures coming, snowpack in B.C.’s backcountry will become even less stable. Buhler noted that sunny weather often creates a false sense of security, luring people to avalanche-prone terrain.

For more information on avalanche preparedness, forecasts, and

current conditions, visit Avalanche Canada’s website at www.avalanche.ca.

T

EARN EXT RA CASH

•A

•A

•A

•Great first job -excellent opportunity to teach children the lifeskills forsuccess

Regional health authority, Interior Health, is warning backcountry users to stay vigilant amidst ‘tricky’ snowpack conditions and elevated avalanche risk. Photo/Herald File

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

New daycare constructed via crane

A new daycare centre in Merritt is not just steps, but leaps and bounds closer to opening following the installation of the new building last week. The Merritt Youth and Family Resource Society (MYFRS) has been working on their new building project for six years, with their new modular building finally reaching lockup in recent days.

Six modular units that comprise the building, measuring 15’ by 76’ each, were installed by a large crane over a period of four days last week. Although finishing touches and the provincial licensing process will likely mean the new centre won’t open its new childcare programs until June, locals will see the building fully completed in the coming months.

“We’re shooting for June, but that’s all dependant on engineer approv -

als, City approval, childcare licensing approvals, and all these little hoops we have to jump through,” Lenora Fletcher, executive director for MYFRS, told local media during the installation.

“We’ve jumped through so many hoops, we’re good at it. We’ll get this done.”

The 76 new spaces at the daycare will be partially funded by the provincial government’s Childcare BC New Spaces Fund, created by the province in July 2018 as part of their childcare plan. The centre will include stroller parking, feature an outdoor garden for learning experiences, and MYFRS says it will be accessible with its central location in the downtown core. The centre will honour First Nations’ practice and the smallcommunity belief that it takes a community to

raise children, according to the organization.

Children attending MYFRS’ current daycare program at their centre on the corner of Coutlee Avenue and Charters Street have been involved in the process of acquiring a new building, from the planning stages, right down to the worksite.

“They have been watching and engaging with this [project] from the beginning, ever since we started breaking ground,” noted Fletcher.

“When we had the big dump trucks in here, they got to sit in them. It’s given them a feel of connection with this facility, so that when they’re finally in there getting to do their programs and activities, they’re going to really feel a strong connection to where they’re at, as it’s been a part of their world.”

Despite the architectural, permitting, and supply related

delays in building MYFRS’ new Family Centre, Fletcher noted that she was confident in the project throughout, adding that it was a ‘full circle’ experience.

“The funny part is that the building that we’re getting now is the original design that I had when I first wanted to start this,” commented Fletcher.

For more information on the Merritt Youth and Family Resource Society,

info@4thmeridian.ca Visit in person: Thurs - Sat CALL or check Website for current hours #104 1475 Fair view Rd, Penticton inside the historic Canner y Trade Centre

Accepting Consignments: ART, POTTERY small furnishings

The

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Snacks will be available throughout the day and meals provided at lunch (12:00-1:00pm) and dinner (5:30-6:30pm)

Shuttles will be available on the following routes:

• Merritt to Kanaka Bar (return)

• Spuzzum to Kanaka Bar (return)

• Spences Bridge to Kanaka Bar (return)

Please contact your local community for pick up / drop off locations and times

The new Merritt Youth and Family Resource Society Family Place Centre was constructed over the weekend following years of delays, and is made up of six individual modular units. Marius Auer/Herald

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Former Merritt councillor acquitted on uttering threats charge

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A former Merritt City Councillor was acquitted on his charge in a Kamloops courtroom on Tuesday.

Mike Bhangu served as a City Councillor from 2018, until his resignation in 2021, when he cited a lack of confidence in then Mayor Linda Brown’s leadership, among other concerns related to the working environment at city hall. He was charged with uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm in June of 2021, and ultimately went to trial on the charge late last year.

Judge Phillips of Kamloops presided over court in November of 2022, where Crown and defense initially outlined their arguments. It was alleged that Bhangu threatened the proprietor of a local moving service after the individual was called by Bhangu’s ex-partner to assist her in moving out of the former councillor’s residence.

Bhangu alleged that the individual was not there in his capacity as a mover when the incident itself took place. Crown argued that Bhangu threatened the indi-

vidual’s life, while defence called the reliability of the Crown’s witnesses into question. Bhangu maintained throughout the trial, and still does, that the charge was bogus. Courts agreed that it was not substantiated beyond a reasonable doubt, and found Bhangu not guilty.

“It was an unfair situation I was put in, and it was lies that individual told that did the damage, but fortunately the judge was able to see that,” Bhangu told the Herald following his acquittal.

“I’m relieved that it’s over. The allegations surfaced in summer of 2021, it’s now 2023, so it’s a sense of relief. I went through an election with this thing on my back, it’s been difficult to find employment, it did a tremendous amount of damage.”

Bhangu added that he believes repeated coverage of his charge by media outlets unfairly damaged his reputation in political, social, and employment aspects. The former councillor ran for Mayor in 2022, with election day scheduled for one month before his trial began. Now acquitted, Bhangu said he looks to move forward and continue on with his life.

The Herald has obtained court documents relating to the judge’s decision in Bhangu’s case. More to come.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

WorkBC connects people to opportunities and helps people with disabilities overcome barriers. Get personalized tools and supports to succeed at WorkBC.ca/FindYourPath Plus, get one-on-one job support at your local WorkBC Centre.

Former Councillor Mike Bhangu. Photo/ Herald File

Upper Nicola council acclaimed

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Following the public nomination period, Upper Nicola Band (UNB) has announced that the Council portion of its upcoming election will be nixed, with only nine candidates seeking nine open Council positions. UNB voters will head to the polls in the coming weeks regardless, as two candidates are contesting the one position for Chief.

Following the acclimation of UNB’s new Council, the band’s election has been narrowed down to a two person race for the office of Chief. Harvey McLeod, who is outgoing in the role, did not

accept a nomination for reelection.

“Having met the requirements of the Upper Nicola Band Custom Election Regulations, February 3, 2020, and in the absence of any other properly nominated eligible members, they are hereby declared elected to the Office of Councillor,” said a release by UNB.

“There will be no vote for Council. There will be a vote for Chief.”

UNB’s new Council will be made up of the following nine band members:

- Kayla J.P. Boston

- Brian Holmes

(incumbent)

- Frederick (Scotty) Holmes (incumbent)

- Dennis MacDonald (incumbent)

- Kevin William Ned (incumbent)

- Craig Shintah

- Eva Marie Tom - Ira R. Tom

- Jeremy D. Tom

Eligible electors will now head to the polls to chose between Daniel Manuel and Yvonne Rosa Ned as their next Chief. Eligible electors are those who are 18 years of age or older on the date of the nomination meeting, UNB members, and not incarcerated at the time of the Custom Election.

The full eligibility requirements

can be found through UNB’s OneFeather portal. OneFeather is an Indigenous technology company specializing in local elections for First Nations communities.

Advanced polling for the election will be held at the Quilchena Church on March 11, from 8:00am to 8:00pm. Regular polling will take place at the Quilchena Church and the Spaxmn Meeting Place, on March 18 from 8:00am to 8:00pm.

For more information on UNB’s upcoming elections, contact the band’s Electoral Officer, Lawrence Lewis, at 1-855-9233006, or support@onefeather. ca.

Move clocks forward this Sunday

WELCOME TO

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:

ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2230

Voters of the Upper Nicola Band will still hit the polls following the acclimation of their new Council, but will only cast a ballot for who they would like to see as Chief. Photo/ Herald File

This Sunday, March 10, clocks will move forward by one hour as daylight saving time begins in B.C., possibly for one of the final times. Be sure to set your clock one hour forward this Sunday. Photo/Unsplash

Cents break their losing streak at home on Parents Weekend

The Merritt Centennials made the most of an unfortunate situation in this week of BCHL action, managing to sneak away with one of four points during an otherwise disastrous weekend of hockey. The Cents now hold a 12–31–3–2 record, and the bottom spot in the Interior division, being 11 points behind the Trail Smoke Eaters in the standings. The BCHL playoffs will all but certainly go on without the Merritt Centennials for the fifth consecutive season.

Cents at

Vees - Home Game, March 3 -

The Cents took on the dominant Penticton Vees, who have won 43 of their 47 games this season, for Friday night hockey action at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. The game officially kicked off the team’s Parents Weekend, which saw parents of Cents players, none of whom are local, travel to the

Nicola Valley to watch their promising young athletes compete on home ice. The Cents started Conor Sullivan in net, with Johnny Hicks still out on injury. The first period signalled troubled waters ahead for the Cents, as Hiroki Gojsic of the Vees quickly opened scoring to make it 1-0 at the 2:15 mark. After a few minutes of back and forth defensive play, which saw a number of shots on goal for the Vees, Penticton’s Beanie Richter found the twine behind Sullivan to increase the team’s lead to 2-0. Under two minutes later, Vees defenseman Ryan Hopkins scored his ninth of the season for a 3-0 score. The relentless assault continued at the 15:41 mark, when the Vees increased their lead to 4-0 by way of Thomas Pichette. Before the period mercifully ended, Penticton would find the back of the net twice more to make it 6-0, with Aydar Suniev and Josh Nadeau scoring their 33rd and 34th regular season goals, respectively.

The second period was a

glimmer of defensive hope for the Cents, hoping to prevent a total blowout, as they limited the Vees to just one goal by defenseman Frank Djurasevic. No penalties took place within the second frame of play. With a score of 7-0, it was onto the third period.

The third period really got underway about 8 minutes in, when Bradly Nadeau further added to the beatdown with a quick shot into the net, assisted by brother Josh. Only 15 seconds later, Aydar Suniev scored his second of the night to make the score 9-0. Suniev was booked for boarding not long after, but the Cents were unable to capitalize on the ensuing man-advantage. Billy Norcross of the Vees would be the next to score, as Cents fans watched with dismay, but not surprise, as the score rolled over to double digits in favour of Penticton. The Cents would finally make themselves heard with a goal by Aidan Lindblad, for a score of 10-1 halfway through the third frame.

Following an unsportsmanlike conduct call against Centennial Diego Johnson, the unstoppable Nadeau brothers once again found the back of the net during the two minute power play for a score of 11-1. Unsatisfied with just two goals for the night, the Vees’ Aydar Suniev completed the hattrick and scored to make the goal 12-1. Things got chippy between Centennial Mark Thurston and Penticton’s Ryan Hopkins not long after, leading to a man advantage for the Vees after Hopkins had served his time in the sin bin. Thomas Pichette scored his second of the night during the power play, giving way to the final score of 13-1 in favour of the Vees. Conor Sullivan saved 47/60 in the loss.

Following the game, parents, friends, and fans of the Merritt Centennials participated in an auction in the NVMA’s mezzanine, which saw bidders place bets on Cents players and coaching staff for the following night’s First Annual Player Calcutta Shootout. The multi-round

knockout style shootout between Cents players, and betting on it, helped to generate funds and excitement for the communityowned club.

Cents at Warriors - Home Game, March 4 -

After their calamitous loss to the Vees, the Cents welcomed the visiting West Kelowna Warriors for a Saturday night game at the NVMA followed by the Calcutta Shootout. With Conor Sullivan back behind the crease, the Cents were looking for their first win against the Warriors this season. The first period was arguably one of the best the Centennials have played all season, as they dominated the ice all frame long. The home team opened up scoring at the 6:52 mark with a solid shot to the back of the net by Jackson Krill, with his 18th of the season making it 1-0 for the Cents. Exactly one minute late, Jaxson Murray planted the puck behind West

See Page 15

Defenseman Michael Shara smiles as his shoutout bet is auctioned to the highest bidder. Family, friends, and fans of the Merritt Centennials placed bids on Friday night on who they believe will prevail during the following night’s Calcutta Shootout. Lane Robinson/Herald

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

From Page 14

Kelowna’s Angelo Zol for a score of 2-0. The onslaught would continue toward the end of the period for a 3-0 game, with Captain Christian Lowe scoring a goal on Zol 15 minutes into the period. Right winger Jacob Smith would strengthen the Cents’ lead to to 4-0 before

the end of the period. No penalties were called against either team the entire first frame. The second period was less glamorous than the last for the Cents, who put in a solid effort to stand their ground and maintain their lead. Following an interference call against

Jackson Krill just two minutes in, Christopher Duclair of the Warriors was able to best Sullivan for the first time that night to make it a 4-1 game. The rest of the second period remained scoreless.

The third period started quickly in favour of the Warriors thanks to a late second period roughing penalty against the Cents’

Connor Farren that carried over to the start of the third frame. The man advantage allowed Ben MacDonald of West Kelowna to score just 25 seconds in, bringing the score to a much closet 4-2. Following the next faceoff, Cents Captain Christian Lowe faced a four minute penalty for spearing. The Warriors were once again able

to take advantage of the situation, with forward Rylee Hlusiak scoring to make the score 4-3. West Kelowna would find their equalizer in Luke Devlin, who found the back of the net assisted by Bobby May and goalie Cayden Hamming. The third period of regulation play came to a close with a 4-4, sending the game to a five minute frame

of three on three overtime.

The overtime was action packed albeit short lived, with three shots on goal by each team. The Cents would ultimately find success by way of Aidan Lindblad and Erik Sollied, who bested Hamming to make the final score 5-4 in favour of Merritt. Conor Sullivan saved 38/42 in the win.

The First

Annual Player

Calcutta

Shootout took place after the game, which saw a number of rounds of knockout-style shootouts between single Cents skaters and their goalie. Assistant Coach Sam Waterfield came out on top, with forward Aidan Lindblad in second place, and defenseman Kyle Isenberg at the bottom of the podium.

Next week -

The Cents host the BCHL’s lone American team, the Wenatchee Wild, for a Friday game on March 10 at 7pm. The next night, the Cents head to Penticton for another matchup against the Vees at 6pm. For more information, or tickets, visit www. merrittcentennials.com.

Local Indigenous artist’s designed featured at Canucks game

so big for me, being Indigenous. I think that we’re coming to a time that we’re starting to get noticed. It’s not just me, it’s all sorts of other Indigenous people. I’m just so proud, and to be part of that is just amazing.”

Phillips added that her

upbringing at nearby Nooaitch reserve, including summers spent in Anahim with her mother, who hailed from the Tŝilhqot’in Nation, greatly influenced who she has become as a person. She added that her community and her culture have inspired her greatly.

“I’ve seen and been a part of quite a bit of culture, so it has definitely

shaped who I am, and the way that I present that my art to the world,” noted Phillips. Along with her work with the Merritt Centennials, Phillips has also recently completed art and design projects with the Circles of Sisters+ conference, the Tŝilhqot’in National Government, and others.

When her phone buzzed with the sound of an incoming text message late on Thursday evening, local artist Kayla Phillips could never have guessed the photo that was attached. A friend had sent Phillips, an Indigenous artist from the Nooaitch

band, a photo of the a pair of local minor hockey players on the ice at the Vancouver Canucks game, outfitted in the special edition Merritt Centennials

Indigenous jersey she designed months earlier.

“She was just as surprised as I was, we were so excited, and just

so happy, it was such a big surprise,” Phillips told the Herald.

“I didn’t know that my design was going to make it onto the ice, so it was a pretty big moment for me.”

The jersey designed by Phillips had previously been used on-ice by the Cents at their Indigenous night, and were recently auc -

tioned off as part of a fundraiser. Now, the design has been shown on TV screens across the country, featured as part of the Canucks’ First Nation Celebration night.

The Cents Indigenous jerseys appeared on screen during the Canucks pregame ceremony, which honoured Gino Odjick, an icon -

ic enforcer of Algonquin heritage that played for the team for his entire 12 season NHL career. Phillips said she felt an overwhelming sense of pride when she heard her design was featured.

“I was happy, and proud, and I honestly just wanted to scream,” said Phillips with a laugh.

“It’s just

Local artist Kayla Phillips designed the Merritt Centennials’ Indigenous jerseys last year. Photo/Kayla Phillips

The goalkeeper for Merritt’s own Panthers blocks an incoming shot during the Saturday finals game against Abbotsford Christian School. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius Auer

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A bridge over Crazy Creek: petting zoo engages all ages

Crazy Creek Farms in Lower Nicola is getting ready for a new year of fun. Rachel Whitehouse owns and operates Crazy Creek Farms from her property near Merritt. There, she offers riding lessons, pony parties, and also acts as a petting zoo.

Whitehouse said she started this because she has always loved animals and grew up with them in Kelowna. When she moved to Merritt she said she knew she was going to stay here forever, and quickly obtained a plot of land to start her farm. Originally having horses,

chickens, and two mini donkeys to run her first event over three years ago.

“My first ever event was a charity run which allowed entry by donation and the proceeds went to the family of a little girl in Kamloops who was looking for a kidney,” said Whitehouse.

“I really enjoyed the event so I decided to keep doing it as a business, but I still try to do charity events about once a year.”

Since then, Whitehouse has grown Crazy Creek Farms to have seven different types of animals, and says she hopes

to only increase this number.

“I have rabbits, mini ponies, goats, chickens, ducks, quail, and I’m looking to add a few others this year,” noted Whitehouse.

“I learned a lot of how to care for the animals through my own research, and I have a degree in agriculture which has helped me with pasture management, weed management, manure composting, all the things that come with running a farm.”

Crazy Creek Farms has been a part of the community for three years, and Whitehouse said they have worked alongside teach-

ers and senior home organizers to bring awareness and engagement to people of all ages. They have worked with The Florentine and a few elementary classes in the last three years.

“I think it’s really important to give young kids the opportunity to be around animals. I would like to highlight the importance of kids engaging hands on with farm animals, it is recommended by many health specialists that kids should be able to recognize farm animals and the sounds they make by a certain age [and the hands on component] helps with that. It’s like a real life farm

story book. They also get to learn empathy and other important life skills when they visit, like food production. They learn which animals make eggs and milk and they also learn what those animals like to have for breakfast.”

Crazy Creek Farms says they are excited to continue being a part of the community here in Merritt and are excited to share all the acquired knowledge to engage people of all ages.

For more information on Crazy Creek Farms, visit www.facebook. com/crazycreekfarms/.

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

Lane Robinson REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Crazy Creek Farms is located in nearby Lower Nicola.

Photos/Crazy Creek

CLASSIFIEDS

In loving memory

Janet Yvonne Pell (83)

January 31, 1940 - January 31, 2023

Janet and her twin sister Myrna were born in Wells, BC on January 31, 1940.

Jan married and raised six children in Merritt She was an artist and animal lover She was known for her kindness, her witty humor and especially for her generosity

If you liked something and she had it, it was yours.

Jan worked in homecare; she truly loved the people she took care of.

When it was time for her to be looked after, she continued to love and care for those that she lived with in Coquihalla - Gillis House.

She was our mother and our Nana and she will forever be loved and missed.

Janet was predeceased by her twin sister Myrna Smyth, father Charles Pell, mother Yvonne Pell, brother Glen Humphries, daughter Candy Venuti (Thomson), son Jimmy Thomson, granddaughter Dakota Thomson and grandson Billy Strande.

Janet is survived by her sisters: Sandra (Gord) Humphries and Corrine Hill as well as 4 of her six children: Donna (Doug) Mikalishen, Susan Riddle, Billy Thomson, Scotty (Crystal) Thomson and her grandchildren: Veronica, Scott Zowey, Nathan, Jesse, Milan, Christopher, Shawn and Cheyenne. And lots of great grand babies

See you soon momma, rest in peace

The most natural response to a loss is to establish the significance of the event. When a bad thing happens to us, we want someone to know and to acknowledge how bad it is

In loving memory of Robert “Bob” Barr

who passed away at home in Merritt, BC on February 18, 2023.

d t h i M itt F b 18

Bob was a long time resident of the Nicola Valley As a heavy duty mechanic, he worked a variety of jobs over his lifetime, and always had a vehicle project or two on the go He was also a life-long train enthusiast who dabbled in model trains and spent many hours on the side of the road watching the trains to go by Bob will be remembered by all as a kind man with a great sense of humour

Bob is survived by his brother James, daughters Kristi (Ben) and Jeanne (Chad), and grandson Tyson

No formal service by request In honour of his memory, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice

Wallace Charles “Barry”

June 2, 1932 – March 1, 2023

Barry said he never worked a day in his life as he always loved what he chose to do. He spent 15 years in the RCMP followed by years of ranching. Many of Barry’s lifelong friends were from those very early policing days in remote places like Alert Bay and Pemberton.

Barry also loved horses and the wide open spaces of British Columbia

It was not easy to keep up to Barry Everything he did, he did at 100% He inspired and taught horsemanship and ranching to many

Barry is survived by Ida, his wife of 60 years, son Mike (Michelle), daughter Lea (Rob) and six grandchildren Braden (Anjali), Morgan, Laura, Ben, Aaron and Tyler

A celebration of life to be announced at a later date

SUDOKU

Route ME14 Coutlee, Granite, Lauder, Nicola, Quilchena, Douglas, Houston, Jackson, Mar ian 133

Papers Diamond Vale area

Route ME70 & ME38 Ir vine, Cressy, For ksdale 76 Papers Bench Area

Thursday's Deliver ies Paid Per Paper Great First Job Any age ok

Success for ALL Learners, Today and Tomorrow

CURRENT JOB OPPOR TUNITIES

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

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

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

Reliable Towing Merritt Ltd. 2900 Pooley Ave the following vehicle will be auctioned on March 23, 2023 for non payment

2008 Toyota Corolla

VIN 2T1BR32E18C938101

Debtor: Sharon Lindley

Amount owing: 2,315.27

2004 Volkswagen Touareg

VIN WVGEM67L44D043022

Debtor: David Donahue

Amount owing: 3,292 53

2012 Ford F-250 SD

VIN 1FT7X2B62CEC51844

Debtor: Taryn Black

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

Amount owing: 9,897 46

Reliable

1. Half-conscious states

8. Unnatural

13. Deep regret 14. Rogue 15. Taken without permission 19. An alternative

20. After B

21. Partner to flowed 22. Weekday 23. Body part 24. World’s longest river 25. One of the Greats 26. Make clean

ACROSS DOWN

1. Clues

2. Do again

3. Current unit

4. Neither

5. Corporate exec (abbr.)

6. Second sight

7. The absence of mental stress

8. Supplemented with

30. C. Canada indigenous peoples

31. Japanese seaport

32. Most unclothed

33. Small grouper fish

34. Soluble ribonucleic acid

35. Distinguishing sound

38. French realist painter 39. Popular beer brand 40. Views 44. God depicted as a bull 45. Relieve 46. Residue after burning

47. Habitation 48. Poe’s middle name 49. Japanese title 50. TV series installation (abbr.)

51. Beloved country singer 55. Single unit 57. Genuine 58. Develop 59. Traveled through the snow

41. Grouped together 42. On land 43. Glistened 45. A type of extension 48. One who assists

51. College sports conference

52. Zero

53. Midway between northeast and east

54. Type of screen

56. The 13th letter of the Greek alphabet