May 18 - 2023

A number of emergency responders gathered at Central Park this weekend to show off their career path and the equipment they use to locals of all ages. Marius Auer/Herald

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THIS WEEK

ER PETITION GROWS

A petition by the organizer of the recent rallies against the ongoing closures of the hospital’s emergency room has received online support.

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LALI JOINING BCU

Former MLA and minister Harry Lali has announced he will join Kevin Falcon’s newly renamed BC United Party, citing a lack of rural support from the NDP.

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FORMER BANKER FINED

A former CIBC Merritt employee has been fined $300,000 plus costs for stealing over $150,000 from a local elderly client and the bank itself.

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LIGHTSPEED HIGHWAY

BC Highway Patrol recently caught a driver going 262 km per hour on the Coquihalla Highway near Merritt. May is High Risk Driving Awareness Month in B.C.

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Petition calls for end of ER closures

A petition calling on Interior Health Authority to end intermittent closures of the Nicola Valley Hospital’s emergency department has over 8,000 signatures. Photo/Change.org

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A petition created by the organizer of the recent rallies against ongoing closures of the Nicola Valley Hospital’s emergency department is gaining steam, including more than 8,000 signatures, and an introduction in the BC Legislature.

The hospital’s ER has been closed ten times in 2023, with the diversions increasing in frequency since they became common last year. During the tenth diversion of emergency department services at the Nicola Valley Hospital since the beginning of this year, roughly 50 residents of the valley gathered on the hospital’s green space to rally against what many see as a lack of provincial action on the issue, followed by two other rallies at Central Park in following weeks.

The online petition on Change.org was created at the beginning of May, and since has garnered more than 8,100 signatures. Organizer Georgia Clement told the Herald that community support has been strong, with travellers also signing after she called

on them to support the ER that services not only Nicola Valley residents, but also the travelling public.

“I think what happened was, about halfway through, I opened it [the petition] a bit more, and I did what was called a ‘petition update,’ and I reworded some text,” said Clement.

“Basically, I called on the people driving up and down the highways, and letting them know that this petition is available to them, and that it should concern them that they could have a very serious accident, and maybe they wouldn’t have enough time to get to Kamloops or Kelowna hospital if the Nicola Valley hospital is closed.”

The petition was recently introduced to the BC Legislature during the last week of its spring sitting, with FraserNicola MLA Jackie Tegart presenting the petition during normal house proceedings. Clement said that while she was encouraged Tegart brought up the issue, she was disappointed by the lack of a complete introduction and speech on the topic, which she feels other MLAs did in more detail and with more passion when rising to present their petitions.

Clement said that she may reach

out to Tegart for clarity on the issue, although she added that it could have just been a ‘slip’ on the MLA’s part. She added that she is grateful for Tegart’s presentation of the petition, which included a cover letter with more information and a call for Health Minister Adrian Dix to address the closures. Clement’s focus is now on garnering more support for the petition.

“Hopefully, we just keep growing and growing, because I think that this isn’t really just a Merritt issue anymore,” added Clement. “This also does concern travellers on the Coquihalla, many of whom are constant travellers, and I think that they need to be aware of the closures that we’re having.”

Along with Tegart, Merritt’s mayor and council have supported the ongoing rallies, including the Mayor’s calls for Interior Health to investigate the situation and act immediately on it. Rally organizers and some supporters have also called for a restoral of previous services at the hospital, such as maternity and surgical wards.

To view the petition, visit https:// www.change.org/p/no-more-emergency-room-closures-at-nicola-valleyhospital.

Portia Wainwright is the recipient of the 2021/22 school year Governor General’s Award at Merritt Secondary School. The award is given each year to the student with the highest overall grades at the school.

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CHILI COOK OFF

A recent fundrasier by Lower Nicola restaurant, Nana’s Hitchin’ Post, raised $1002.00 for the Nicola Valley Food Bank by way of a delicious competition - a chili cook off. See the results online this week.

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Lali to leave NDP, join BC United

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A former long-time BCNDP MLA and cabinet minister has announced that he will join the newly renamed B.C. United, citing concerns with his former party’s direction.

Harry Lali, a Merritt resident, served as the BCNDP MLA for Merritt’s previous riding, Yale-Lillooet, during the 1990s, and from 2005 to 2009. In 2009, he was elected in the new riding of Fraser-Nicola. He was defeated by Liberal Jackie Tegart in the 2013 and 2017 elections, and failed to win the party’s nomination in the riding in 2020.

In December 2020, according to BCNDP officials, he was expelled from the party for undermining the party’s Indigenous candidate, and putting his interests ahead of other party members and British Columbians as a whole. In a statement, Lali said the BCNDP has ‘little to no interest’ in rural B.C’s issues and challenges.

“The BCNDP that I proudly represented in the Legislature could historically be relied upon to look after all regions in a fair and balanced manner. Not any longer,” said Lali.

“Today’s BCNDP has become an urban-interest party. Having only a handful of rural MLAs, the BCNDP has little to no interest in the issues and challenges facing small communities –i.e., insufficient doctors, ER closures, mill closures, access to services, lousy roads, etc.”

Lali noted that he approves of the new B.C. United look and direction, adding that he will become a member of the party led by long-time friend Kevin Falcon. He also plans to offer his advice on labour, forestry, and rural B.C. issues to B.C. United.

Read the full text of Lali’s statement here:

I was born and raised in Rural Punjab in India. I immigrated to Merritt in Rural BC 57 years ago and I still live there. I am a former IWA-Steelworker. I financed my university education by working in lumber mills across BC. For the past 9 years, I have been working as a Consultant in the Forest

Industry. I am proud of my small-town rural heritage and the rural way of life. When I served 4 terms as an NDP MLA and as a Minister of Transportation and Highways

I was an unabashed champion of small, resource-dependent communities, and continue to this day.

The wealth created by forestry, mining, agriculture, ranching, fisheries, hydro-electricity, oil and gas, etc., has benefitted all British Columbians, rural and urban. Over the last few decades, the fast-growing urban centres have grown richer, while small-town BC suffered. Much of the blame lies at feet of governing parties of all stripes that allowed this injustice to occur. The BCNDP that I proudly represented in the Legislature could historically be relied upon to look after all regions in a fair and balanced manner. Not any longer.

Today’s BCNDP has become an urbaninterest party. Having only a handful of rural MLAs, the BCNDP has little to no interest in the issues and challenges facing small communities – i.e., insufficient doctors, ER closures, mill closures, access to services, lousy roads, etc. They’ve allowed sawmills and pulp mills to shut down by the dozen, and workers have lost their livelihoods by the thousands due to inaction. By contrast, downtown urban cores have become overcrowded, congested, unaffordable and unliveable. The BC government should be looking at innovative ways to bolster the small-town economy and provide incentives for urban folks to relocate there, thus alleviating pressure on cities. Unfortunately, Rural BC has no voice in this government.

I will be joining the BC United Party as a Member. I like the new name. Kevin Falcon and I have been friends for almost 20 years: a friendship based on mutual respect and trust. Honesty, equality, fairness and hard work are values my parents passed on to me. I know Kevin Falcon, and those are values that he also holds in high regard. Having been in government in the past, Kevin knows what will work and what will not.

I like the new direction Kevin Falcon is taking the BC United in. He is expanding his universe to include people from the Centre and Centre-Left as well; people like me. Kevin Falcon cares about small business and about the working people of this province. Kevin Falcon cares about the economy and rebuilding the neglected infrastructure in every region of British Columbia, including Rural BC. I have travelled all over the province in the last

few years and hear from people all the time. Every day people are excited about the positive direction Kevin Falcon is taking BC United in. British Columbians trust Kevin Falcon. I trust Kevin Falcon. I will be offering my advice on Labour, Forestry and Rural BC issues to BC United.

I have a lot of good friends in the BCNDP government and in the party. I wish all of them and Premier David Eby, too. I carry no ill-will toward any of them. However, I have not been a BCNDP Member since December, 2020. I firmly believe that the best interests of resource-dependent, small-town Rural BC – and British Columbia in general – will be best served by a Kevin Falcon-led BC United government after the next election.

Harry Lali is seen giving a speech at a BCNDP event in this undated Herald file photo.

EDITORIAL

ALBAS MP REPORT: rural communities are ignored

Unfortunately, the answer was no from the federal government. The bureaucrats said that the project did not fit into any established grant programs and washed its hands of the problem.

This was not in my riding; however, the Member of Parliament who represented this region did raise the issue many times in Parliament but was ignored by the current Trudeau Liberal Government.

Princeton and Merritt, BC, as well as the surrounding unincorporated areas, were devastated by flooding.

At the time, there was national media attention on this situation; Prime Minister Trudeau promised the citizens of these communities that he “had their backs” and “he would be there for them.”

that there are still citizens in Merritt and Princeton who cannot return home.

Likewise, there are many badly needed infrastructure projects required that these small communities need help to afford.

I want to begin by sharing an unfortunate event from 2016.

That year, a rockslide damaged the regional irrigation canal located in the community of Oliver.

This canal runs from north of Oliver, down south to Osoyoos and is critical infrastructure serving many South Okanagan farming communities.

When it came time to fund the repairs, the local government budgeted to invest its fair share in the project. Likewise, the provincial government of the day also stepped up to cover its share.

What was even more infuriating from my perspective was two years later, in 2019, the same Trudeau Liberal Government gave the mega-grocery corporation Loblaws over $12 million to help buy more energy-efficient refrigeration.

The net earnings of Loblaw Companies Limited reached approximately 1.99 billion Canadian dollars in the financial year ending December 31, 2022. For some context, the cost to repair the Oliver irrigation canal was estimated at $11.4 million.

Why do I mention this?

In 2021, communities such as

The Mayor of Princeton was given a special number to contact his office– yet when he tried to use this number, he was told to go speak with the province.

You may have heard recently that the Trudeau Liberal Government announced they were giving Volkswagen “up to $13 billion in subsidies over the next decade as part of a deal to ensure the automaker builds its electric-vehicle battery plant in southern Ontario.”

According to Statista, Volkswagen’s operating profit in the 2022 fiscal year increased by some 14.78 percent from the previous year and stood at roughly 22.1 Billion Euros.

What you may not have heard is

People in Merritt and Princeton pay taxes to Ottawa like anywhere else and all too often, rural Canada is ignored by this Liberal Government.

It is crucial that Ottawa hears directly from rural Mayors of these hard hit communities to understand better the struggles they face as they try to rebuild.

Last week, I invited Princeton Mayor Spencer Coyne and Merritt Mayor Michael Goetz to appear in Ottawa at the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.

I want to thank both of these Mayors for attending and sharing the experiences of their communities and the many challenges they face.

DAN ALBAS VIEW FROM THE HILL

LETTERS to the editor Canada must stand up for Palestine

Editor,

Canada must stop supporting Israel in its apartheid and illegal settlement of Palestinian land.

On February 26, 2023, 400 illegal Israeli settlers carried out acts of terror in the small town of Howwarah, which is located to the north of West Bank. These Israeli settlers attacked at least 70 Palestine homes and set more than 100 vehicles on fire. One Palestinian was killed, and more than 350 Palestinians were injured.

So far in 2023, the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) and illegal Israeli settlers have killed 65 Palestinians including 13 children and have injured around 500. Israel has approved more than 700 new settlement homes on Palestinian lands. Illegal Israeli settlers on Palestinian land are protected by IDF and are allowed to carry weapons. In the past year, there have been 800 violent attacks against Palestinians by Israeli settlers. In 97% of

the cases, no one was convicted. Israeli Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, liked a tweet by right-wing activist Davide Ben Zion stating, “Hawara village must be erased today”. When asked about this tweet by a journalist, he mentioned he “liked a tweet calling for the erasure of Huwarah because I think Huwarah needs to be erased. The state should be the one to do that”.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the Israeli Minister of National Security explained “I believe in democracy for all Jews, but not for Arabs. There are patterns of racism and support for the extermination of the Palestinian people in the Israeli government. Former Israeli Prime Minister, Ehud Barak, said “this government shows signs of fascism”. The Mayor of Tel Aviv also shared that he believes the State of Israel is headed towards a facist theocracy.

The International Human Rights

Commission (IHRC) just published a study outlining the horrendous atrocities carried out by Israel against Palestine, as the world continues to struggle with the continuous war between Israel and Palestine. The report drew attention to Israel’s overt discrimination and apartheid practices, which on February 22, 2023, killed 11 Palestinians, including two children and one police officer, and injuring over 100 in the West Bank city of Nablus. “The Israeli government’s actions against Palestinians amount to apartheid and crimes against humanity,” stated the IHRC report.

In the face of such serious injustices, Canada, a nation that takes pride in its dedication to human rights, cannot remain silent. The seriousness of the situation is plainly outlined in the IHRC report, and our government must act right away to denounce Israel’s apartheid practices and put an end to violence against the Palestinian people.

We urge the Canadian leaders and members of the Canadian Government, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, to speak out against Israel’s policy of apartheid and demand that those responsible be held accountable. Additionally, we compel the Canadian government to take proactive measures to help the Palestinian people and guarantee the protection of their human rights.

By staying silent, I believe the United Nations, EU, USA, and Canada are guilty of supporting apartheid. Canada should stop supporting apartheid and genocide in Palestine. Canada needs to take a position for justice and human rights. When such horrors occur, we cannot remain silent participants. Canada needs to take a position for justice and human rights. When such horrors occur, we cannot remain silent participant.

Dr. Mukarram Zaidi

AUER: a nod to the unsung hero, the passenger

everyone arrives safely at their destination: I see you!

To all the spouses, partners, and better halves who could very well drive but take on the important role of passenger to make sure

One of the most underappreciated jobs in midlife is the one of being a passenger in a car. When you could be driving but you don’t, because your significant other wants to drive. So you let them, even though you are perfectly capable of driving, and you are damned to fulfill the thankless job of being the passenger. But you don’t complain because that job is equal in importance to driving, even more so if we’re being honest. The

driver is usually not aware of this, but the passenger is actually the person who prevents one accident after the other by holding their breath, inhaling sharply, making little surprised noises, hanging onto the holy sh*t handle for dear life or digging their fingernails into the seats. Other techniques include heavy sighs, passive-aggressive suggestions, and exasperated gasps - those are my husband’s favourite. My favourite is the elevated heart rate, because I feel like I’ve worked out after just a

short drive in town. Driving to Kelowna to visit our oldest son is like a marathon, I didn’t even know I’m fit enough to handle one.

Once the car is off the road, the work of the passenger does not stop. It also includes - but is not limited to - selecting parking spots and giving detailed instructions how to park, knowing where to get the best deal on gas and directing the driver to that gas station, testing the driver’s reaction times by giving last second directions, and pointing out whether it might be time

to get a vision or hearing test at the ICBC licensing office.

If this seems to you like it might be even more exhausting to be the passenger than the driver, that’s because it is. I should also add that my husband is an excellent driver and has always gotten us safely where we need to go. In our marriage, I selflessly take on the job of passenger and while it’s really my efforts that get us safely to our destination, I don’t mind giving my husband all the credit.

PREMIER, MINISTERS ENJOY TOUR OF AREA

Last Saturday was a very busy day for B.C.’s Premier Bill Bennett and the three ministers he brought along as the entourage toured the MerrittLogan Lake area, riding with local M.L.A. Tom Waterland in his mobile constituency motorhome.

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.

Former Merritt CIBC employee fined for fraud

Farmers’ Market returns

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A former Merritt CIBC employee has been fined $300,000 for stealing more than $150,000 from an elderly client, and from the bank itself.

In an April 25 decision, Hope Moira Donna Thomas was found by the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada to have misappropriated $97,000 from a 79-year-old CIBC Merritt client and stole more than $64,000 from the bank during her time as an employee.

The decision says that in 2018, the client opened a tax-free savings account (TFSA) with Thomas and deposited $56,316 into it. Between February and August 2019, without the client’s knowledge or authorization, Thomas went on to process 12 redemptions from the client’s TFSA, account totalling $59,000, which was deposited into a fake account in the client’s name.

Thomas also racked up more than $5,000 in overdraft on the fake account. The decision adds Thomas also misappropriated $34,000 from a joint account the elderly client held with her husband, adding loans and a line of credit in the senior’s name to the tune of $59,000.

“Here, the respondent misappropriated $157,000 from the client and the bank,” reads the decision. “She held a position of trust with the client, who was elderly and vulnerable, whom she exploited in order to steal money for her own personal use.”

After being fired by CIBC in October 2019, Thomas was criminally charged

with three counts of fraud, to which she pleaded guilty to one count, and is currently awaiting sentencing. The decision said that CIBC repaid the senior’s losses, but has not recovered any cost from Thomas, who also did not attend any of her scheduled Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada hearings.

“The misconduct in the present case is egregious. She stole money from an elderly client who trusted her and also defrauded the Bank by obtaining a loan in the Client’s name and using the proceeds for her personal use,” the release sates, adding, “She cannot be trusted

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Nicola Valley Farmers’ Market returned for the season this weekend, with over a dozen vendors gathering to offer produce, meats, sweets, and handmade creations to the community for the first time since September.

The farmers’ market offers a space for vendors to offer their homemade goods, with a variety of vendors that includes produce, honey, baked goods, local meats, and even handmade furniture and wood carvings. According to the BC

Farmers Market Association, all vendors must “Make it, Bake it, Grow it, Raise it or Forage it” to sell it at the farmers’ market.

The Fresh Finds programs is also once again participating in this year’s market, offering new entrepreneurs the chance to trial their product at two markets throughout the season, including the use of a tent and table, and even transport, if necessary. The program is run through Community Futures Nicola Valley, which can be reached at 250-378-3923.

For more information on the Nicola Valley Farmers’ Market, including vendor applications and other program information, visit www.nicolavalleyfarmersmarket.com.

Mutual Fund dealer’s association

with clients’ monies in the future.”

The decision also adds that Thomas has failed to recognizes the seriousness of her misconduct, and has not expressed remorse for her actions, which the association says is evident by her lack of participation in the hearing process.

Thomas is now banned for life from working in securities-related businesses, and has been fined $300,000 by the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada, plus an additional $10,000 in costs.

The Nicola Valley Farmer’s Market runs from the start of May to the middle of October at the parking lot next to Baillie House. Marius Auer/Herald

Hope Moira Donna Thomas was found to have misappropriated $97,000 from a 79-year-old CIBC Merritt client and stole more than $64,000 from the bank. Marius Auer/Herald

‘She cannot be trusted with clients’ monies in the future.’

Big shoes to fill

Annual School District #58

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The first ever Nicola Valley Bigfoot Conference had big shoes to fill in terms of expectations, but did not disappoint for the more than 200 attendees from the Nicola Valley and beyond. Believers and skeptics alike gathered to hear speakers share their experiences with the mysterious creature known as sasquatch, whose existence is disputed, and share their own stories.

A number of vendors also gathered, including two booths by bigfoot researchers showcasing their large casted footprints that were casted after being found in the wild. Inspired by a childhood passion and increasing curiosity for the mysterious forest creatures, local podcaster Sheldon Quewezance created the Nicola Valley’s first-ever Bigfoot Conference, which was held at Shulus Arena this weekend.

Wednesday, May 24 - 9:30 am - 2:30 pm LOWER NICOLA INDIAN BAND ARBOR

Host school: MERRITT CENTRAL Master of Ceremonies: Richard Jackson Arena Director: Gary Abbott

Concession available on site.

Craft tables must register. Invited Drums Only Sage Hills, Kamloops W ild River, Chilliwack Eagle Creek, Merritt All Dancers Welcome

All Dancers need to pre-register with Martha at 250-315-3858 or by email: mchillihitzia@365.sd58.bc.ca

For more information contact Shelley Oppenheim-Lacerte at 250-315-1111 or email: soppenheim-lacerte@365.sd58.bc.ca or Martha Chillihitzia at 250-315-3858

The Pow Wow Committee is not responsible for lost or stolen items, injury and short funded travel

Aboriginal Advisory Council

An alleged sasquatch footprint that has been casted by a researcher is shown at the Nicola Valley Bigfoot Conference. Marius Auer/Herald

Merritt Chamber brings back markets

Last year’s rendition of the street market was the first year back since the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions limiting gatherings were lifted. Photo/Herald File

Kerstin Auer MERRITTHERALD.COM

When the Merritt & District Chamber of Commerce re-launched the popular Quilchena Street Markets in 2022 after a pandemic pause, residents came out in full force to show their support.

For 2023, the Chamber is kicking it up a notch by adding the Summer Night Markets to the mix, for the first time since 2018.

“It’s in direct response to the success we had with the 2022 markets and we are just looking to develop up as much as we can. One focus this year is bringing more in for people to enjoy at the market,” said Joe Nemeth, market coordinator for the Chamber.

Nemeth is currently contacting entertainers and food vendors, and reaching out to non-profit organizations who can use the markets as a platform to educate about their cause. The goal is to diversify and bring in a wide range of options for all to enjoy and to make the events a success for the whole community.

“We want to make sure that you can come down to the market and just enjoy the atmosphere,” added Nemeth.

The Quilchena Street Markets will kick off on May 27, and cover the 2000 and 2100 blocks of Quilchena Avenue. About 20 spots for vendors will be available for the inaugural market, as well as for each of the following six on June 24, July 8 and 29,

August 19, and September 2 and 30. The growers and artisans of the Nicola Valley Farmers’ Market, who is partnering with the Chamber for these events, will also set up on Quilchena Avenue for the street markets, as opposed to their regular spot next to the Baillie House.

Spirit Square, along with the 2000 block of Granite Avenue, is the location for the Summer Nights Markets, which make their debut on June 28th from 6-9 pm. Nine more markets are planned after that, every Wednesday from 6-9 pm until September 6th. With a total of ten night markets there are still opportunities for sponsorships.

“We will be reaching out for sponsorships, there will be opportunities for sponsors to bring in entertainment, maybe give us the opportunity to maybe bring in something to Spirit Square,” noted Nemeth.

While the Chamber has taken on the organizational duties for this year’s events, it works closely with the City of Merritt and the Nicola Valley Farmers’ Market and is always looking for more collaborators and contributors to make the markets a success.

“That rising tide is just going to lift all boats for the next year. It would be fantastic if we can make this something that the community really pulls in on,” added Nemeth.

A vendor spot at any of the markets is free for Chamber members and nonprofit organizations, for all others a $25 fee applies. Registration forms can be downloaded from the Chamber website: www. merrittchamber.com/2023market.

Local first responders host show ‘n tell

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The participants at last weekend’s softball tournament in Merritt’s Central Park sure must have felt safe as they played the game, with a number of emergency services just across the field.

The First Responders Show ‘n Tell took place on Saturday (May 13), offering local children and adults alike the opportunity to interact with local first responders and the life-saving and critical pieces of equipment they use to aid the public.

The Merritt RCMP, Merritt Fire Rescue Department, Lower Nicola Fire Department, BC Wildfire, BC Ambulance Service Merritt, Nicola Valley Search and Rescue, Mario’s Towing, all took part in this community event. A number of locals shuffled through Central Park during the day to interact with police officers, paramedics, and more, and even got a chance to get up close and personal with their vehicles and equipment.

Attendees to Saturday’s First Responder Show ‘n Tell had the opportunity to check out a number of pieces of equipment and vehicles used by first responders up close. Marius Auer/Herald

Local firefighters play frisbee with a number of local children, some of many who filtered through Central Park Saturday. Marius Auer/Herald

Friends of the Library plan plants event

Continuing their series of library based events after the success of the recent Newcomers’ Tea, Merritt’s Friends of the Library will soon host a community conversation with speakers on wildflowers, invasive plants, and composting, as well as an opportunity for open discussion.

The event, called Conversations on Wildflowers, Invasive Plants & Composting, will be hosted by the Friends, the Thompson Nicola Regional District, and sponsored by United Way. The idea for the talk came from community members interested in the topic of local flora.

“When I originally applied for the United Way Love Fund, I asked for funds for three different events,” said Chelsea Werrun, lead volunteer with the Friends. “The first one was the Newcomers’ Tea, and this second one came from interested people wanting to learn more about some local wildflowers and invasives.”

From there, the event quickly took form, with the Friends inviting Andrea Lawrence and Alan Burger of the Nicola Naturalist Society to present a 20 minute PowerPoint on local wildflowers, while Coleen Hougen and Andrew Roebbelen of the TNRD will present on the regional districts’ invasive plant program services and new composting initiatives, respectively.

The community conversation will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

on Saturday, June 20, at the Merritt Library. Following the speakers’ presentations, there will be an opportunity to discuss the topic and to socialize. Light refreshments will also be provided.

Werrun noted that suggestion from Friends, library patrons, and community members ensure that events reflect the interests of the community. After noting the number of Nicola Valley newcomers at the Friends’ last event, the Newcomers’ Tea, Werrun and the FoL quickly began planning the next gathering to keep the library and its many resources at the forefront of the community.

“It actually helps, because I applied for this funding to kind of build some idea of what the community wants to see, so getting these suggestions helps build that interest of what’s available,” noted Werrun. “Now, because we have expanded our list a little with new people to Merritt, this is just a great event to add to the list and utilize the library space to get people connected again.”

With funding still remaining for a third and final event sponsored by the United Way Love Fund, Werrun noted that she would like to see a talk by a local Indigenous author on their writing and publishing process for a possible wrap-up event.

To submit a suggestion for the next event, or for more information on the Conversations on Wildflowers, Invasive Plants & Composting event next month, email nvlibraryfriends@ gmail.com, or talk to library staff. The Merritt Library is located at 1691 Garcia Street.

Merritt’s Friends of the Library will host a community conversation on June 20, featuring a number of speakers on wildflowers, invasive plants, and composting, as well as open discussion. Photo/Herald File

Marius Auer

RCMP catch driver at 262km per hour on Coquihalla

Kerstin Auer MERRITTHERALD.COM

May is High Risk Driving Awareness Month in B.C. and only one week into this educational campaign, the BC Highway Patrol (BCHP) clocked and stopped a dangerously fast motorist. According to a RCMP press release, the driver was going 262 km/hr in a 120 km/hr zone, more than double the speed limit. The incident was recorded 22 km south of Merritt in the northbound lanes of the Coquihalla Highway, when an officer noticed unsafe driving practices from a red Alfa Romeo Guilia.

“The driver, identified as a Washington State man in his 50’s, is facing charges and has been summoned to appear next month in Provincial Court,” reads the press release.

The start of summer does not only signal the beginning of camping season, but also of increased traffic on B.C.’s highways. High Risk Driving Awareness Month is meant to educate about safe driving practises, with law enforcement across the province conducting enhanced enforcement to target

Open house. Open conversation.

Enbridge is proposing an expansion of the southern portion of its natural gas transmission system to meet additional natural gas demand in the province and Pacific Northwest of the United States.

Please join us at an open house to learn about the proposed Sunrise Expansion Program and meet members of the project team who will be in attendance to share information, gather your input and answer any questions you may have

Snacks and refreshments will be served.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

3 - 7 p.m.

Merritt Civic Centre

1950 Mamette Avenue

Merritt , BC V1K 1R6

Call

high risk behaviours such as speeding, following too closely, and improper passing. An emphasis is placed on impaired driving, with National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day on May 20th coinciding with Victoria Day long weekend. More than 110 people die in collisions associated with high risk driving each year in B.C., according to provincial statistics.

“Driving is a complex, divided attention task and there are several easy things drivers can do to reduce risk to themselves, their families and other motorists,” says Chief Superintendent Holly Turton, officer in charge of the BCHP.

“First, slow down, obey speed limits, wear your seatbelt, drive defensively, drive sober and free of distractions. By following these simple rules, we are making our highways safer together.”

May is High Risk Driving Awareness Month, an BC Highway Patrol are highlighting a driver that was recently stopped doing 262km/h on Highway 5 near Merritt. Photo/RCMP

Merritt first stop for BC High School Rodeo circuit

Kerstin Auer MERRITTHERALD.COM

The BC High School Rodeo rode into town May 5 to 7 for their first event of the 2023 season, and the Herald had a chance to catch up with Myranda Mackenzie, BC High School Rodeo Queen, and Macey Freemantle, BC High School Rodeo Vice President, who both also competed.

It was a successful first weekend that included all the rodeo staples, starting with cutting and cow horse on Friday and followed by junior and senior barrels as well as breakaway and ribbon roping, steer wrestling, and chute dogging on Saturday. And how does being back in the saddle for a new season feel?

“It feels so good, all the horses are fresh and ready and we’re all ready to rodeo.” said Mackenzie.

“I can’t even describe it, it’s so good, honestly. The friends, the family, the people, it’s awesome,” added Freemantle.

The BC High School Rodeo Association is split in two regions - north and south - with Merritt being part of the south region. The top four competitors from each event get a chance to participate in the National finals in Wyoming, while the top five also qualify for the

Canadian Finals, held in Swift Current, MB this year. Prizes and scholarships are the reward for hard work throughout the rodeo season.

Rodeo does not stop after graduation, however, there are several options for those who still feel called to compete in the circuit. The BC Rodeo Association offers a home for competitors of all ages and Pro Rodeo is an option for those 16 years or older. Plus, there is College Rodeo, with the Canadian College Rodeo Association for those who attend college, university, or trade schools. “I think college rodeo is what’s next,” noted Freemantle.

But for now, both Freemantle and Mackenzie can look back at a successful first event of the season, with different highlights for both of them.

“I roped a 1.9 in the breakaway so I’m still on Cloud Nine. That’s my fastest time out of all my breakaway roping,” shared Freemantle.

“I just had ACL surgery so just being back and rodeoing in general is a really big highlight of my year so far.” added Mackenzie.

A number of local rodeo athletes took part in the Merritt stop of the BC High School Rodeo circuit, putting up impressive numbers for their hometown crowd.

Panthers headed to provincials two times over

Auer

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

It was an exciting and high performing weekend for Merritt Secondary School (MSS) sports, with the Panthers going to provincials twice over with both their golf and ultimate frisbee teams.

On Friday, May 13, the MSS Panther ultimate frisbee team clinched their spot in the spot in the BC School Sports Provincials by becoming Okanagan Tournament champions. The team previously became West Zone champions after a strong start to the season, and after Westsyde Secondary forfeited for unknown reasons. The Panthers placed seventh in last year’s ultimate frisbee provincials. This year, the provincial tournament takes place on May 26.

It was par for the course for the MSS Panthers golf team, who also secured their BC School Sports over their weekend on the green. The team will head to provincials in early June, with the tournament lasting for three days.

The first stop of the BC High School Rodeo circuit for 2023 took place at the Nicola Valley Rodeo Grounds in Merritt. Photo/Christina Jean Photography

Marius

The MSS Panthers golf team poses after their performance earned them a spot at the BC School Sports Provincials. Photo/Allyson Paxton

The MSS Panthers ultimate team will represent their school at provincials for the second time in two years. Photo/Taylor Larter

COMMUNITY

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

Cents hosting Rubber Duck Race

The Merritt Centennials Junior Hockey Club is presenting its first annual Rubber Duck Race on June 3 at Lion’s Memorial Park. Ducks are now available for purchase at the Cents Marketing Office or by calling the team.

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Looking to harbour community support and raise funds for the team, the Merritt Centennials Junior Hockey Club is introducing a new event. The Cents’ first annual Rubber Duck Race will take place next month, giving participants the opportunity to support the team, win some cash, and cheer on their plastic waterfowl.

The event, which Cents staff tell the Herald is based off a Rotary event that saw great success, will see 950 ducks race from Lion’s Memorial Park on Voght Street, down the Nicola River, to the golf course on June 3 at 11:00 a.m. A prize of $1600 is up for grabs for first place, $1100 for second, and $600 for third, with some $100 prizes available as well.

“It is a fundraising event for the club, so a fun community engagement event,” said Courtney Christy, marketing manager for the Cents.

“People have the opportunity to buy a rubber duck, put it in the river, and hopefully watch as it wins as it crosses

the final bridge.”

Ducks are now available for sale for $20 each, and those interested can purchase a single bird, or a whole flock. To purchase a duck, contact the Cents Marketing Office at 250-378-3604, or visit 2001-C Voght Street.

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

Photo/ Herald

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting EDUCATION COORDINATOR

The Coldwater Indian Band is seeking an individual to fill the Education Coordinator position. The Education Coordinator is responsible for the planning , administration and coordination of Coldwater Indian Band Education Programs and Ser vices and repor ts to the Band Administrator. This position will be wor king from the Mer ritt Office.

Responsibilities and Duties

Planning – Annual and Long-ter m Education Plan for Coldwater Indian Band, member ship and as directed.

Human Resource – Super vises and valuates the perfor mance of anyone with direct repor ting relations to the Depar tment when applicable

F inancial – Develops Education Program budgets in consultation with the Band Administrator and administer s the budgets as approved by Chief and Council and all other associated duties.

Policy – Administer s the approved Post-Secondar y Education Policy.

Liaison and Representation – Par ticipates as Ex-Officio when required on the Band School SAC; Represents the band in negotiating the Local Education Agreement; Attends School District 58 meetings where applicable; Liaises with Post-Secondar y Institutions/Schools in suppor t of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Policy and programs; Liaises with SD #58 re: L.E.A., F.N.A.C, and staff where applicable; Advocates for Coldwater students within School District 58 & students attending different PostSecondar y Educational Institutions; Liaise with Indian Ser vices Canada in suppor t of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Depar tment programs

Post-Secondar y Program Administration – Administer s the Post-Secondar y program as per Job Description.

General Education Administration – Administer s all per tinent Education Program funding through Xyntax; Develop and maintain individual student confidential files; Maintains records of all Education programs, ser vices and funding associated with this depar tment; Keeps the Band Administrator infor med of sensitive and impor tant issues and events in relation to the operation of the Education Programs; etc.

Position Qualifications:

• Post-Secondar y Diploma (prefer minimum Business or Public Administration diploma)

• OR an equivalent combination of post secondar y education and directly related wor k experience.

• Proposal writing an asset

Lifestyle consistent with the impor tance of the responsibilities of the position

Strong analytical and decision-making skills, tact, discretion and sound judgement

Demonstrated commitment to fiscal management

Superior communication skills, written and oral

• Wor king knowledge of Xyntax an asset

• Knowledge of Nlaka’pamux and Coldwater Community an asset

• Ability to organize and manage wor kload

• Good negotiation skills (Local Education Agreements)

• Able to wor k independently and in a team environment

• Satisfactor y Criminal Records check

• Valid Driver’s License and Reliable vehicle

Send your resume with references and cover letter :

CURRENT JOB OPPOR TUNITIES

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

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting

HOMEMAKER POSITION

DESCRIPTION: Repor ting to Social Development Coordinator, the Homemaker is responsible for providing homemaking ser vices to clients.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

Homemaking includes:

General cleaning and organization of rooms, laundr y, disposing of garbage;

• Scheduling and providing transpor tation to medical appointments; Monitoring of member s health and medications, providing grocer y lists, and preparation of food when necessar y

The Homemaker maintains daily records of ser vice, infor ms Social Development Coordinator of client emergencies and follows a schedule

Requirements of Homemaker Position:

Access to reliable vehicle and cur rent driver’s license

• Criminal Record Checks

Experience wor king with F ir st Nation Community

• Grade 12 Education prefer red with Food Safe/ F ir st Aid Level 1

Up to date on Immunizations & TB test

• Home Care Attendant Cer tificate would be an asset (different than Resident Care Aid Cer tificate)

35 Hour Wor k Week

Deadline for submissions: ASAP

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

Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted.

Journey’s Into Tomorrow

Transition House EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Casual Support Worker

Position Duties:

Under the direction of the Program Director, the successful applicant w ll carry out the Vision and Mission of Jour ney’s Into Tomorrow Transition House and provides support to women and their children in a nonjudgemental and confidential atmosphere

Duties Include the following:

• To create an atmosphere of safety and trust by prov ding confidential and non-judgementa support

• To assist cl ents recognize their rights and responsibilities

• To prov de necessary referrals and/or case plann ng with other organizations/agencies

• Intake procedures including assessing e igibility

• Handle cris s calls and to provide emotional support infor mation and referrals over the phone

• Record keep ng in compliance with the Privacy Act and Jour ney’s Into Tomorrow policies, as well as ma ntain statistical activity reports

• Clean ng dut es to inc ude but limited to dust ng sweep ng vacuuming, mopping, disinfecting etc

Position Quallficatlons and Requirements:

• College Cert ficate in the Soc al Services discipline or two years’ experience In the Soc al Services Sector

• Crisis and Suicide Intervent on/Prevention

• Food safe Level 1 First Aide

• Effective and respectful interpersonal communication ski ls and the ability to work cooperat vely with colleagues

• Reliable and self motivated

• Maintains profess onal standards of practice inc uding ethical boundaries and protecting the confidentia ity of the House, fami ies and colleagues

• Reliable vehicle and valid BC Dr ver’s License

• Complies with the Criminal Records Review Act

Employment type: On call casual

Start date: Immediately

Wage: Dependent on qualifications and previous experience

Please fax or email resumes to:

250-378-6172 Email: transitionhouse@coldwaterband org

Only selected applicants will be contacted for interviews

Please forward Resume with a Cover letter to:

C. Jager, Social Development Coordinator

Email: cynthia@coldwaterband.org

2249 Quilchena Ave, Mer ritt, BC OR 301-230th Street, Coldwater Reser ve

Nicola Mining Inc is looking to hire for the following t wo positions at its Craigmont Mine Site

Co r e Cu t t e r s: Individuals will work closely with the geological team during the company’s ongoing exploration program Candidates will need to be motivated, pay at tention to detail and willing to learn The company is open to hiring candidates for both seasonal and long-term employment

Star ting wage: $21 per/hour but can be higher depending on experience

Wa t e r Tr u ck D r i ve r s: Ideal candidates shall be mechanically inclined and preferably a Class 3 Driver s License Star ting wage: $26 per/hour

Co n t ac t H R: I n fo@n i c o l a m i n i n g .c om

CORBETT L AKE LODGE is seeking to immediately fill positions for housekeeper s and food and beverage worker s and guest ser vices staf f

Come

Competitive wages of fered

Please write to us with an attached resume at corbettlake@gmail com (no phone calls please)