Merritt Herald April 4, 2024

Company’s hybrid semitruck passes government regulations but forced to relocate operations.

Hybrid truck gets green light, but faces relocation to Terrace

Edison Motors’ hybrid semi-truck passes government regulations but is now being forced to relocate operations to Terrace, B.C. Photo/Edison Motors

Edison Motors’ hybrid semi-truck passes government regulations but is forced to relocate operations to Terrace, B.C.

After six months of testing and paperwork, Merritt-firm Edison Motors’ L500 hybrid semi-truck has passed all government regulatory requirements.

“Turns out it was actually way easier to build the truck than it was to submit all the paperwork to make the truck road legal,” said Edison Motors Chief Executive Officer Chace Barber. “But we did it, we’re done, it’s officially a truck!”

After meeting all regulations, the prototype

L500, nicknamed “Topsy,” is the first B.C. original equipment manufactured semi-truck since Western Star shut their Kelowna based plant.

“First one in 30 years, actually feels quite incredible,” said Barber. “It feels pretty cool, it’s really incredible to be able to bring some truck manufacturing back to the province.”

After passing regulations, Edison Motors will continue to test Topsy for an additional six months. “I’m going to be driving the truck around empty, seeing how it does, then picking up an empty trailer, then a loaded trailer, and we’re just gonna keep building up our testing distance,” said Barber. “The whole point of a prototype is to break it, I want to push it to

its limit, find out when things break, and then find out how to make it more reliable.”

Despite a regulatory victory for the L500, Edison Motors is being forced to move operations to Terrace, B.C., in order to grow the business. Since 2021, Edison Motors has operated on three acres of land located in Barber’s mother’s backyard.

“(Having to leave Merritt), it sucks, there’s no better way to say it other than it sucks,” said Barber. “We grew this company here, we grew up here, it sucks having to leave here, I don’t want to leave Merritt.”

“We tried for a year and a half to stay in this town and we just couldn’t do it,”

Keeping the business in the province

From Page 3

said Barber. “It’s not fair. It’s not fair when you grew up in a town, everyone that helped grow it is in this town and can’t grow your business because foreign development companies bought every piece of land that’s available and won’t let domestic manufacturing occur on it.”

The American State of Nevada reached out to Barber, offering 60 acres of land outside of Elko free of charge. “I said what about the zoning, they’re like ‘don’t worry, it’ll take about one to two weeks to do the zoning change’,” said Barbers, contrasting with the “two to three years if it gets done, with three, four town meetings” with Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD).

it would need to be one that’s appropriate for industrial land use, and that process takes about three to six months,” said Krause. “From the notes, what happened is the gentleman then said that it’s much faster in the State of Nevada, and that the S tate of Nevada would welcome his economic opportunity, so we did not tell him to go somewhere else, that’s simply not true.

The City of Terrace offered to change the commercial zone of their near-future facility into an industrial zone within four weeks.

‘Why are we at a disadvantage in our place?’

CHACE BARBER, CEO OF EDISON MOTORS

“I can’t wait three to four years on our technology and park it,” said Barber. “Why are we at a disadvantage in our place?”

Barbers alleges he reached out to the TNRD asking the same question. “I asked that lady that works at the TNRD that. I said, how come the States is friendly and it’s so hard here,” recalls Barber. “And all that we were told by the regional district was ‘if that’s the way it is, I suggest you move to the States and she hung up the phone on me… They’ll work like crazy to try and keep jobs but they won’t attract new jobs.”

Edison Motors had posted on social media stating their operation is moving to the States in which Terrace reached out to Barber. “The City of Terrace was like, ‘well how do we keep you in B.C.?’,” recalls Barber.

According to Alexander Krause, the general manager of development services at TNRD, the situation mentioned by Barber “absolutely did not happen.”

“We explained that industrial uses, for example, often conflict with residential areas so it’s not as simple as just finding rural land,

Barber was also given a tour of the town.

“The economic development officer connected us with other local businesses, he was like, this guy owns a reload facility for the ports, this guy owns a steel fabrication shop, look at all these businesses we have in town that can help you with your business. Here’s a symbiotic relationship that can occur in Terrace,” recalls Barber. “They went above and beyond to help us feel comfortable with it.”

Edison Motors is set to move to Terrace during the summer. Their new facility was once owned and operated as a factory by Hayes Manufacturing Company, a Vancouverbased bus, van, and truck manufacturer which closed in 1975.

“Like we did with (our first proof of concept) “Carl,” we’re taking something really old, refurbishing it, and bringing it back into the modern age, and that actually feels cool, because if we’re gonna bring truck manufacturing back to B.C., why not use the old truck manufacturing plant?”

ALBAS: Trudeau’s spending accomplishes nothing OPINION

More and more, I hear from my constituents about the same issue. The cost of groceries, insurance renewals, utility bills, wireless plans, “bring it back” smartphone charges, and mortgage or rent payments are all on the rise. For an increasing number of citizens, their income has not kept pace with the rising costs. This issue is especially problematic for those on a fixed income.

Given their unchanging income, these individuals need to find ways

to cut costs. This typically means eliminating certain expenses or reducing spending to manage monthly bills. This is an uncomfortable reality for many, resulting in the dramatic increase in food bank usage.

Many governments, whether local, provincial, or federal, have noticed a rise in costs. However, they frequently fail to review existing spending and opt to increase taxes instead, overlooking the fact that many citizens can’t afford to pay more.

Indeed, in Ottawa, whenever we, as the Official Opposition, challenge the Trudeau Liberal government’s current spending, the Prime Minister labels us as promoters of “austerity”.

A quick search of Hansard shows that Prime Minister Trudeau has mentioned “austerity” over 70 times in the House of Commons. The issue is that all levels of government should have their spending examined

meticulously, a task typically undertaken by opposition parties.

However, in Ottawa, we are facing an unusual scenario. The fourth party, NDP, has formed a partnership with the Trudeau Liberals, leading to consistent spikes in spending without sufficient accountability.

In this week’s report, I’d like to illustrate a recent example.

Conservative Senator Don Plett, who serves as the leader of the Opposition in the Senate, recently received a response to an Order Paper question. An Order Paper question is a written inquiry. After a 48-hour notice period, it is posted on the Order Paper. The expectation is that the responsible Minister will provide a comprehensive answer within 45 sitting days.

Senator Plett queried the Government of Canada about its expenditure on the “gun buyback program”, announced by Prime

Minister Trudeau on May 1, 2020. Additionally, he sought to know the current number of staff working on this program.

The response to these questions was startling. The Government of Canada revealed that it has spent $41,904,556 - just under $42 million on this program. How many guns have been “bought back” under this program? The answer is none.

In summary, nearly $42 million has been spent on a so called “gun buyback” program that hasn’t “bought back” a single gun in almost four years since Prime Minister Trudeau first announced the program.

My questions to you this week – should the federal government examine how your tax dollars are spent more closely? Or do you agree with Prime Minister Trudeau that this would just be “austerity”? Why or why not?

DIXON: Embark on a journey to feeling great

Are you ready to embark on a journey to feeling great, looking great, and having sustained energy every day? It’s simpler than you think, and

it all starts with what you put into your body. Imagine if you could eat anything you want, but it’s true –you are what you eat. So, let’s start tracking.

For just one week, commit to jotting down everything you eat and drink. No judgments, no guilt-tripping, just pure observation. Did you consume fruits and vegetables? Did you hydrate yourself with at least 8 glasses of water? Sometimes, it’s not about what you eat but what you didn’t eat.

After that week, take a moment to breathe and reflect on the evidence.

It’s like uncovering clues to a mystery – what patterns emerge? Perhaps you notice gaps in your diet, and missed opportunities for nourishment. But fear not, this is where the magic happens.

You have the power to make a difference in your life and the lives of those around you. It starts with a simple choice – continue as you are, or embrace food that truly nourishes you. And hey, it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Start small, add more fruits and veggies to your plate, swap refined grains for whole ones, and maybe indulge in sweets a little less

often.

Make it an adventure, a journey of self-discovery and growth. Experiment with new recipes, explore the farmers’ market, and savor the vibrant colors and flavors of real, whole foods. Remember, it’s not about restriction but about abundance – filling your body with the goodness it deserves.

So, are you ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you? Start tracking, start nourishing, and watch as your life transforms one delicious bite at a time.

Damage in car fire

A car engine fire caused some $200 damage to a vehicle owned and operated by Gladys Houston of Merritt on the weekend.

The Merritt Volunteer Fire Department was called out about 5:20 p.m. on Saturday, March 29 by the Longhorn Texaco Service at Lower Nicola, informing them they had received a call for help at a fire scene.

Water survey offers up to $500 in prizes

be selected by a random draw within 30 days of the final submission date, May 3.

Merrittonians have the chance to get their hands on some good prizes at this City of Merritt’s contest.

The City of Merritt announced over a press release that they are conducting a water system study and they must collect information from each and every residential property – owner or occupant – within its municipal boundaries.

The survey to be filled by Merritt residents from each household on their properties’ water system.

“To save taxpayers the cost of an in-person information collection program, the City is requesting that an authorized resident from each household complete the following survey,” the release reads.

The initiative promises enticing rewards for those who take the time to share some information about their residential property, such as pipe material, if the household has a crawlspace, if it has an automatic irrigation system, among others.

Three prizes ranging from $100 to $500 will be awarded to lucky participants of the survey. Winners will

Here are the rules governing the contest:

- Contest is intended only for residences within the municipal boundaries of the City of Merritt.

- Contest is not applicable to commercial, industrial, institutional or vacant properties.

- Each and every household in the City of Merritt must provide the information required in the survey.

- Only those that complete the survey by May 3, 2024, will be eligible for the contest prizes.

- Only authorized occupants (name on title or rental agreement) may enter to win. Those who enter the contest must be aged 18 years or older.

- Only one entry per household.

- Survey entry must be complete and legible to be entered to win the draw. Incomplete, inaccurate, illegible, duplicate or late entries will be disqualified.

For more information on the survey and contest, access the City of Merritt’s website.

“The 4H club had speeches at the Quilchena Clubhouse. Everyone did great except the kid who left his last card behind….ps it was me!”

Laine Smith, regarding the 4H speeches event in March.

Eight candidates for Upper Nicola election

Photo/Herald file.

Laísa Condé

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Eight candidates are vying to fill the three vacant councillor positions at Upper Nicola Band.

Zachary Astakeesic, Rick August, Kaelyn McLeod, Stuart Michel, Matthew Manuel, Yvonne Ned, Jeanette McCauley, Erickson Sheena are running for the three seats vacated after three councillors resigned last year.

According to the Upper Nicola Band website, elected Coun. Jeremy Tom resigned his position on July 29, 2023, followed by then Coun. Eva Tom, who resigned on Sept. 4, 2023. Shortly after, on Oct. 23, 2023, Coun. Kayla Boston resigned her position.

Upper Nicola Band members will head to the polls this Saturday, on April 6, to decide who will be the new councillors.

The three candidates elected will serve until March 2026.

Middlesboro Bridge replacement Phase 2B

Kenneth Wong REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

City of Merritt to contract Emil Anderson Construction for the construction of the replacement Middlesboro Bridge.

The City will be investing $12,545,974.43 for Phase 2B of the

Middlesboro Bridge replacement construction.

Middlesboro Bridge was destroyed during the 2021 atmospheric river, cutting off Collettville from Downtown Merritt and forcing residents to cross using bridges on Main Street and Houston Street. - -

See PERMIT Page 14

Get to know: Michael‘MJ’ Phillips

Kenneth Wong

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

With the byelection quickly approaching, it is important for voters to become familiar with the people that are running to fill late Coun. Claire Newman’s position at city council.

Michael ‘MJ’ Phillips is one of the four candidates running for city councillor.

Phillips was born and raised in Lytton, B.C., Phillips moved to Merritt in 2018.

Previously, Phillips had run for city council in 2022. “I’ve been studying politics for almost 20 plus years, I’ve read the Constitution Act cover to cover… I read laws, I’m one of these people that likes to read, learn, and not go just take things for granted,” said Phillips

“In understanding how a system works, you have to understand how the details work and how much time and energy and teamwork there is in actually going and working to get good resolutions for the community,” he added.

Phillip’s main priorities are water and sewer; and flood mitigation. “The community and the infrastructure has to come first,” said Phillips. “These are the highest priority things we have to deal with, we’re expanding and we have to look down the road, how far we’re gonna have to expand and upgrade infrastructure.”

“The community and their needs come first and my personal ideas and beliefs come second,” said Phillips. “I’m willing to go a step back and

say my ideas can sit on the backburner until hell freezes over until these issues are resolved.”

Some of these ‘backburner’ ideas include what Phillips calls a centraluse facility. The facility would function as a multiuse building which can be used as a hockey arena, theatre, concert venue, office space, gym, restaurant, library, museum and rental space.

The central-use facility would utilize solar and wind power, and LED lighting to reduce costs of powering the four storey building.

“We’ve got all these building that are all over the place, that are all aging, so I’m looking at the unconventional idea of what would it cost to save us money for tax dollars on the other side,” said Phillips. “The conventional says ‘no, we should wait until the

See TRANSPARENCY Page 13

Residential Interior Design

Whether you’re building your dream home from the ground up or reimagining your existing one, Parks Interiors can help bring your vision to life.

Our services can include:

• Space Planning

• Selection of Furniture & Decor

• Selection of Lighting, Materials, & Fixtures

• Cabinetry Design

• Selection of Paint

• Selection of Window Treatments

• Styling

• Customized CAD drawings

• Renderings

Photo/Kenneth Wong

Coquihalla Canyon set to partially reopen

Alanna Kelly GLACIER MEDIA

A popular B.C. park that was heavily damaged during an atmospheric river flood years ago will soon be partially reopened.

Othello Tunnels experienced extensive damage and was closed in November 2021 after the bridges and tunnels were compromised.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy says Othello Tunnels will reopen in two phases with the first phase starting in July 2024.

“The goal of the Coquihalla Canyon recovery project is to repair the facilities back to their pre-November 2021 condition while adding climate-resilient design principles wherever possible,” says a spokesperson.

The slopes above the tunnels and the tunnel structures continue to be impacted by “natural processes” like melt-freeze and rain.

“We’ve had several large rocks and boulders impact the typically travelled portions of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail. It is not safe to open trails or tunnels until rock stabilization has occurred,” says the spokesperson.

From April to July, restoration work will start on the facilities and access from the parking entrance and parking lot to the end of the second tunnel.

Phase one focuses on rock slope and tunnel maintenance, trail work that involves debris removal and resurfacing, and restoring and raising the trail surface to prevent similar flood damage in the future.

“BC Parks is working with First Nations and archaeology and cultural heritage specialists to avoid potential impacts to archaeological and heritage values during construction,” says

See REOPENED Page 14

Othello Tunnels will partially reopen in summer 2024, confirms the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. Photo/BC Parks.

More transparency within local government

From Page 10

building starts falling apart,’ I’m saying what we should do is start looking at the curve of expenses, when the expenses go up, we need to look at replacing it before it gets out of hand.”

Phillips has estimated the cost of the building to be approximately $50 million and believes Central Park is an optimal location for the building. “We have multiple baseball diamonds, they rarely are being used, except for maybe five times a year, maybe a week if that, where it’s in full use,” said Phillips.

Phillips also wishes to increase transparency in the municipal government. “There’s a lot of things happening but not a lot of things are publicly talked about, you have to go the Merritt Wire or Facebook groups to find out what’s going on,” said Phillips. “Transparency to me is like, let’s just put the information out there so we can save ourselves a ton of money from a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, and taking office workers away from their actual job of dealing with real issues that are at hand, dealing with the people in the community businesses and so on and so forth.”

Do you live in a communit y that was impacted by the 2021 BC Floods?

Th e Ca na di an Re d Cr os s Re si de nt ia l Mi ti ga ti on In ce nt iv e Pr og ra m is of fe ring financ ial in ce ntiv es to he lp pr otec t yo ur ho me ag ains t fl oo ding

Ap plic atio n de adline is Ap ri l 30 , 20 24

Fo r more info rmati on and to appl y, visit ww w. re dcros s.c a/2021BCFlo od s

In a closing statement during his interview with the Herald, Phillips stated the following: “If you vote for me, I am going to be taking this job seriously. I’ll be reading every piece of paper that’s sent to me. I won’t be coming unprepared to the meetings. I will be absolutely prepared and I will have questions, and I will want to take questions from people in the community to go and see if we can get answers.”

The Herald will be interviewing all candidates prior to the byelection on April 20.

OPEN 7DAYSAWEEK

KAMLOOPS: 743VICTORIA ST •250-377-8808

CHILLIWACK: 44310YALE RD •604-392-9969

The Merritt Otters Swim Club

is looking for coaches to join our team for summer 2024. Flexible opportunities from full time to part time!

Seeking energetic & motivated coaches for the Merritt Otters Swim Club

Details: Our club is looking for enthusiastic, organized, experienced leaders who can coach and help swimmers with stroke technique and general swimmer development. We have approximately 40 - 50 swimmers each summer of all ages, experience, and skill level. Our club is a mixture of social and competitive swimmers We compete regionally and provincially, have a dedicated executive, and an indoor pool for training There are also various opportunities and facilities available for dryland training in the community.

Location: Merritt BC is a small community of 10 000 in the Southern Interior, 45 minutes from Kamloops and an hour from Kelowna. There are hundreds of kilometers of trails for hiking, biking, and ATVs and beautiful lakes in every direction for paddleboarding, fishing and swimming Summers are sunny and typically warm

Term: Summer 2024 Season (beginning of May to August 23, 2024) Spend weekends visiting various cities and towns in the region for swim meets which begin around the beginning of June Full-time commitment is preferred, but we are willing to work with successful candidates to determine a schedule that meets the needs of the coaching staff and swimmers

Responsibilities & Expectations: Our coaches will have the willingness and ability to lead a diverse group of swimmers Coaches will be responsible for planning and executing swim practices for swimmers with a variety of abilities and mentoring junior coaches. FLEXIBLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR FULL TIME OR PART TIME!

Salary: The Merritt Otters Swim Club offers a competitive salary, dependent upon experience and certification. Other incentives may apply.

Experience: Previous coaching experience preferred. As we are dependent on ‘Summer Jobs Grants’ to partially fund coaches, preference may be given to post-secondary students continuing with education.

Requirements: Coaches must consent to a Criminal Record Check.

Head Coach: Level 1 NCCP or Equivalent, Water Safety Instructor / Swim BC/s I CAN SWIM Coach Designation preferred. Previous Coach training and experience is preferred. Training available for the right candidate!

How to Apply/Questions? Email: infomerrittotters@gmail.com

RAL

HEATLH MONTH

Make the dentist a fun experience for kids

Visits to the dentist for periodic cleanings and checkups are an important component of oral hygiene. Dentists also may be the first people to identify potential issues that can affect health elsewhere in the body.

Many people are unaware that children should visit the dentist early in their lives.

Primary teeth may eventually fall out, but they shouldn’t be ignored. They save space for permanent teeth and serve other f unctions. Therefore, parents should begin to acclimate children to the dentist at a young age to make the experience fun and even enjoyable.

Lead by example: Children who witness their parents putting off going to the dentist or being apprehensive about visiting the dentist may develop their own fears. Always paint the dentist in a positive light and keep appointments.

Focus on the good aspects: Talk up all the benefits of going to the dentist, such as having a squeaky clean and fresh mouth. Many hygienists will hand out small toys after a successful visit, or at the least a great new toothbrush and other fun products to try.

Get a tour of the office: Ask the staff if your child can get a special tour of the office with explanations of all the tools and equipment. The dentist may be able to also give a test ride on the exam chair, moving it up and down, as well as showing off the water fountain and oral irrigator.

Avoid giving false hope: Do not tell a child that “everything will be OK” at the dentist’s office. If a child needs treatment that may be uncomfortable, he or she may not trust you the next time a dental visit is scheduled,Over time, dental visits can become an easy routine with children, setting them up for a lifetime of healthy mouths and teeth.

Diabetes: People with diabetes are at increased risk for periodontal disease, speculating that diabetes patients’ risk is higher because people with diabetes are more vulnerable to infections than those without diabetes. While that suggests periodontal disease is a byproduct of diabetes, research points to the relationship being a two-way street. Periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar, making dental hygiene an especially vital component of routine healthcare for people with diabetes.

Heart disease: Research indicates periodontal disease increases a person’s risk for heart disease, with the inflammation caused by the former leading to the latter. People with existing heart conditions also may find that periodontal disease exacerbates those conditions. The Mayo Clinic notes that the link between heart disease and periodontal

Health risks of poor dental care

disease is not fully understood, but enough studies have been conducted for scientists to support the notion that the two are connected.

Can periodontal disease be prevented?

Periodontal disease is preventable. A daily dental hygiene regimen that includes brushing after meals, flossing at least once per day and swishing with mouthwash are some simple, healthy habits that can prevent periodontal disease. In addition, the AAP recommends that people at increased risk for periodontal disease, including the elderly and smokers, should discuss their risk with their dental professionals.

Dental hygiene can do more for individuals than produce a mouthful of pearly white teeth. In fact, people who prioritize dental hygiene may lower their risks for various diseases.

NO TI CE OF ELECTION

BY VO TIN G

By-Election 2024

Public Noticeisgiven to theelectorsofthe City of Merritt that an election by votingisnecessary to electone Councillor forthe remainder of thefour-year term ending November 2026.

Nominations Received

PUBLICNOTICEISHEREBYgiven to theelectorsof theCit yofMerrittthatthe personsnominated as c andidatesand forwhomvotes will be received are:

CO UN CI LL OR

VOTE FORNOT MORE THAN ONE| ONE[1] TO BE ELEC TED

BA XTER YvetteCit yofMerritt

COGHILL Peter Thompson-NicolaRegional District –Electoral Area A

LITTLE TONNorma Jean City of Merritt

PHILLIPS MJ City of Merritt

Forfur ther information on campaign period expense limits andthird-par ty advertising limits ,pleasecontact Elec tions BC:1-800 -661-8683| ww w.elec tions.bc.ca E: electoral.finance@elections.bc.ca

VoterInformation

ELEC TORREG ISTRATION

If youare notonthe List of Registered Elec tors,you mayregister at thetime of votingbycompleting the required applic ation form availableatthe votingplace Toregister youmus tmeetthe followingqualific ations:

• be 18 year sofage or olderongener al votingday, April20, 2024;and,

•a Canadian citizen [landedimmigrant s, permanent resident sand corporationsare noteligible];and,

•a resident of BC foratleast 6monthsimmediately before theday of registration[at timeofvoting ]; and,

•a resident of theCit yofMer rittthe dayof registration; and,

•not disqualifiedunder the LocalGovernmentAct or anyother enac tmentfromvoting in an elec tionand notother wise disqualifiedbylaw.

To register,residentelector smus tproduce two[2] piecesofidentific ation [atleast onemus thaveyour signature] to provewho youare andwhere youlive. Pictureidentific ation IS NOTnecessary

NON-RESIDENT ELEC TORS

Toregister as aNon-residentPropert yElector youmus t:

ING BY MAIL is available for qualified elec tors of the Cit y of Merritt If you wis te by mail, you must obt ain an applic ation to receive a mail ballot package It is your nsibilit y to ensure that your completed ballot is delivered to the

•be18years of ageorolder on generalvoting day, Saturday,A pril 20,2024; and,

•a Canadian citizen [landedimmigrant s, permanent resident sand corporationsare noteligible];and,

•a resident of BC foratleast 6monthsimmediately before theday of registration[at timeofvoting ]; and,

•a registered ownerofrealpropert yinthe City of Merritt foratleast 30 days immediatelybeforethe dayofregistration; and,

•not be entitledtoregister as aResidentElector in theCit yofMer ritt; and,

•not disqualifiedunder the LocalGovernmentAct or anyother enac tmentfromvoting in an elec tionand notother wise disqualifiedbylaw

In addition, forNon-residentPropert yElector s:

•the only personswho areregistered owners of the proper ty,eitherasjoint tenant sortenants in common, areindividualswho arenot holdingthe proper ty in tr us tfor acorporationoranother tr us t.

•ifmorethanone person is registered ownerofthe propert y, only oneofthose individualsmay,withthe written consentofthe majority of theowner s, register as aNon-residentPropert yElector

Non-resident Proper ty Elec tors must producet wo pieces of identification(at leas tone with asignature)to

proveidentity,and must also bringevidencethatyou are entitledtoregister in relationtothe proper ty,including : •proof of ownershipofthe proper ty (a recent TitleSearch);and •writtenconsent (formavailable from City Hall) signedbya majority of allthe owners,ifthere aremultiple owners of thepropert y, st ating that you arethe oneowner whoisdesignatedasthe Non-resident Proper ty Elec torfor that proper ty You mayonlyregister as aNon-residentPropert y Elec torinrelation to onepiece of proper ty regardless of howmanyproperties youown in Merritt .Ifyou ownpropert ywitha corporation,noneofthe owners of thepropert yare eligible to vote VOTERS LIST

Until theclose of generalvoting on April20, 2024, acopyofthe List of Registered Elec tors will,upon signature,beavailable forpublicinspection at City Hallduringregular office hour s, 8:00 am to 5:45 pm Tuesdaythrough Friday,excepts tatutory holidays

Egg-citing moments during Easter

TOP: Photos/Christina Gillet Photography.

MIDDLE: Matthias Weigand

BOTTOM: Photo/Shailyn Joe For more Easter photos, access the Herald website.

TOP: Photo/Matthias Weigand. MIDDLE: Photos/Christina Gillet Photography BOTTOM: Photo/Matthias Weigand

For more Easter photos, access the Herald website.

Cents double win over the weekend

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt Centennials have put on a show in the regular season finale, after winning 8-4 on Thursday, March 28, against the Cranbrook Bucks and a 4-1 win on Saturday, March 30, against the Prince George Spruce Kings.

Thursday, March 28 – Merritt Centennials 8, Cranbrook Bucks 4

The Merritt Centennials hit the ice on March 28 against the Cranbrook Vees at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

Penticton found the back of the net early in the game with a power play goal by Noah Urness, who scored his thirteenth goal this season, just over three minutes in.

Merritt rebounded with three unanswered goals to take a two-goal lead with Jaxson Murray (18), Charles-Thomas Larochelle (15) and Luke Pfoh (14) shortly after.

Late in the first period, Tyler Wishart (5) added another goal for the Bucks, but Centennials’ Zachary Losier beat the goalie and set the score 4-2 for Merritt.

Merritt kept on ruling in the second period with an early goal by Easton Ryan (13), followed by another Cents’ goal by Jaxson Murray (19) setting the score 6-2 at the end of the period.

In the third period, Merritt’s Zachary Losier (16) beat the goalie once again.

During the last minutes of the game, Jacob Fletcher (9) scored a shy goal for the Cranbrook Bucks.

The Merritt Centennials won 8-4 against Cranbrook Bucks after a threegame losing streak.

Saturday, March 30 – Merritt Centennials 4, Prince George Spruce Kings 1

The Centennials hosted their second game this weekend as they faced the Prince George Spruce Kings.

In the second home game of the weekend, the Merritt Centennials dominated the Spruce Kings in a 4-1 win.

After a balanced first period, Charles-Thomas Larochelle (17) put the Cents on the board in the early minutes of the second period with a power play goal.

The Merritt Centennials continued to dominate the second period with two unanswered goals by Michael Stenberg (9) and Jimmy Lyver (4).

The final period was marked by a shy goal from Spruce Kings as Carter Hesselgrave scored his first goal of the season.

Merritt’s Jaxson Murray added another goal by the end of third period, crowning the Cents’ 4-1 victory.

The Centennials will take Salmon Arm in the final Interior Conference playoff series. The first game is set this Friday, April 5, at Shaw Centre in Salmon Arm. All rounds are best-of-seven series.

Cents leaving BCHL, fresh start in KIJH

Josh Dawson

CASTANET

After celebrating their 51st year in the BC Hockey League, the Merritt Centennials will be making a fresh start in the the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League.

In a news release, the KIJHL said the Junior A club will be joining the league after being awarded an expansion franchise. The Centennials are withdrawing from the BCHL after having played in the league since 1973.

The club will continue to be known as the Centennials and will begin play in the new league for the 2024/25 season, joining the Bill Ohlhausen division.

The club will move from community-owned to private ownership under Brad Anstey and Daniel Schofield.

“The Centennials have a rich history and this year celebrated their 51st consecutive season of continuous junior hockey in the City of Merritt,” says KIJHL commissioner Jeff Dubois.

“Brad and Daniel have a great vision for a successful and sustainable KIJHL franchise, and our Board of Governors was thrilled to see the tremendous support that exists within the community for a transition to our league.”

The KIJHL said Merritt’s expansion application was

unanimously approved by the KIJHL’s Board of Governors and the Centennials will take the place of the Summerland Steam, following that franchise’s relocation to Williams Lake.

“We guarantee our commitment to grow the Centennials brand while building a competitive team with the best of sporting cultures,” Anstey said.

“We are proud to become a member of a league that provides development opportunities for local and provincial players to continue to pursue their hockey goals and dreams.”

The KIJHL said Centennial fans should expect “a number of immediate rivalries to develop” with the Kamloops Storm, Princeton Posse, Kelowna Chiefs and Chase Heat — all located less than 90 minutes from Merritt.

The KIJHL said further details on ticket information, spring camp dates and locations and staffing announcements will be announced in the coming weeks.

Merritt Mayor Michael Goetz said the upcoming season will hold a “whole new and exciting team” as well as opponents that haven’t previously been seen in the Valley.

“We are very pleased to see the Centennials become part of the KIJHL and we have signed a long-term lease

to make sure this new brand of hockey stays and grows in Merritt,” Goetz said.

“We continue to see one of the longest-running Junior Hockey franchises secure its position for years to come, and we also welcome the new owners and appreciate their investment in keeping Merritt as one of the top hockey cities in B.C.”

Goetz said the city looks forward to drop the puck in the new season.

In a news release, Centennials president Ken Carruthers said the difficult decision was made after an “in-depth analysis” by the club’s board of directors.

“The Board members past and present have worked extremely hard to maintain 51 continuous years of operation in the BCHL but have finally conceded that continuing into the future is no longer viable,” Carruthers said.

“We are confident that the current players and staff can have a great run into the upcoming playoffs. To our community, we hope you will attend over the playoffs and we fill the barn in celebration and pride to the end of 51 hard fought years.”

Photo/Griffin Hintz

TNV clinches Tourist Information Platform award

Tourism Nicola Valley (TNV) has won the 2024 Tourist Information Platform of the Year award by Canada Prestige Awards.

“Two years ago we won it for a different category,” Greg Girard, tourism advisor at Tourism Nicola Valley, said. “This year, they inserted us in the Tourism Information Platform category and we were successful at that as well.” Girard celebrated the news and said it means a lot not only to the tourism group, but also to the community of Merritt.

“It sort of reinforces everything that we believe in as Merrittonians of how wonderful the (Nicola) Valley is to live, work and play,” Girard added. “It’s just a pat on the back for the hard work of the Tourism directors on our board at TNV. It’s showing that with quality volunteerism, you can get a lot done within small communities, but it does take people to be successful.”

Girard describes the platform as “nothing else like it in Canada”, a place where both businesses and community members are allowed to create content.

“They can create content as events or photo galleries or videos, or even blogging stories and their content becomes part of the website,” he added. “So it never gets static, it never gets boring. It’s real people, in real time, putting up real adventures.”

He added that he is extremely proud by the fact that Tourism Nicola Valley was chosen, recognizing their innovative work into making tourism a big economic stimulator for the community.

“I’m extremely excited for the future of the Nicola Valley and the local businesses here, on the tourism dollars that we will be bringing into the community,” he added. “I think it’s an absolute opportunity that we should all embrace. We’re very proud of the people who have put so much energy and effort into making it what it is.”

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

Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772

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

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC)

1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall)

Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church

1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Service Times: Sunday 10 am

James Carter MURDOCH

August13, 1947 to March24, 2024

JimMurdochpassedawaysurroundedbyhis family on March24, 2024 in Merritt,B.C., at theage of76.

Jimwill be foreverlovedand missedby hiswifeof55years DianeMurdoch, hischildrenBradMurdoch(Sonya)ofCanmore,Alberta,and Michelle Douvia(Donovan) of Bellevue,Washington, brotherNormMurdoch (Joanne)ofTrail, B.C.,and grandchildrenKiana,Laney,Brandon andCarter. His parentsLes andTommie Murdoch, brotherGordMurdoch, andbrother-in-law RogerWatson, allofTrail, B.C.,preceded himindeath. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Marnie Ruggiero(Joe) andLinda Watson, hisnieces,nephews, great-nieces andgreat-nephews,and countless friends andrelatives whoall loved himverymuch.

Jimwas borninTrail, B.C. on August13, 1947. He grew up with hisparents and brothers on Columbia Avenue,ina neighborhood full of fellowbabyboomer children. He lovedhis sports.Hegrewupplaying hockeyand baseball, with great memories of hishockeyteamsthatwon provincialchampionships.Inhis teen yearshefound thegameofgolf, whichbecamealife-long passion.

He graduatedfromJ.Lloyd CroweSecondary in Trail, andcontinuedhis educationatthe University of Victoria,receiving aBachelor of Arts degree, a Diploma in Teacher Education, anda Master of Education. He married hishigh school sweetheartDiane in 1968, andtheymovedtoMerritt, B.C. in 1972.

Jimwas aloved andrespected educator in theNicolaValley- he worked as a teacher andprincipal in Merritt for32years, from1972 to 2004. He cared deeply forthe childrenand communitiesheservedoverthe yearsatNicola CanfordElementary, Collettville Elementary,Diamond Vale Elementary,Central Elementary, andSCIDES. He also enjoyedcoachingmanysports teamsinthe valley, primarily hockeyand softball, andheldfond memories of times shared with theplayers andfamilies.

Jimwas an avid golfer, enjoyedhis curling, andplayedhockeyalmostintohis 70’s. He enjoyedcherished family time at ChristinaLake, B.C. everysummer, anddelighted in travelingwith Dianeduringretirement, including several wintersinOceanside,California, many tripstovisit grandchildreninCanmore andBellevue,and adventures in Europe,Hawaii, EasternCanadaand theUnited States

Jimhad theloudestlaugh in theroom.Helovedspending timewith familyand friends,and headingout on thegolfcourse. He wasthe best grandpa –forever a kid at heart, he lovedtoplayand stir up action. He wasalsowise, patient,caring, andalwayssupportive.

Jimand hisfamily were incredibly grateful forthe wonderfulcarehereceived throughout hisillness. Ahuge thankyou to Dr.Soderberg, hisfamily doctor, as wellasthe Nicola ValleyHospitalERdoctors andnurses, Merritt Home Health community nurses, andthe oncologists, nursesand staffatBCCancer,both in Kelownaand Vancouver. Also,our hearts arefullofgratitude forthe many neighborsand friends whochecked in,brought meals, shoveledwalks,offered rides, andprovidedsupport. Your kindnessand generosity remind us of thebest of humannature.

ACelebrationofLifewill be held at 2:00 pm on April16th, 2024 at theMerritt CivicCentre, 1950 Mamette Ave, Merritt,B.C

Shouldfriends desire,inlieuofflowers, donations maybemadetothe Terry Fox Foundationora charity of choice.

Maria Cecilia McCauleyWoodward

Mar.12,1943 -Mar.24, 2024

“It is with great sadnesstoannounce the passing of Maria Cecilia McCauley-Woodward.

Maria dedicatedher life to raising her 5children, her grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Shewas born on the Ranch beside Spaxomin reserve, Douglas Lake. Maria wasagreathunter,grewuparound horses, and wasknownfor being areal heavy hitter with the DouglasLakeGirls baseball team

Maria is predeceased by hermother MinnieCharters, and father JoeMcCauley. Brother Clarence &August McCauley, and nephews August McCauleyJr. &Clifford Shackley.Son-in-law Gordon White & Clifford Graw. Great Granddaughter CynthiaJoesph.

Survivedbyher sister Olive Sabo &David McCauley.Children

Catherine Graw, MichaelWoodward, Georgina Woodward, Ellen White, Amanda Lamothe. Her 21 grandchildren &18 great grandchildren.

Maria passed peacefully on the eveningofSunday,March 24th, 2024 in Merritt.She celebrated her 81st birthday 12 days before, on March 12th.”

In Loving Memory

DonnaLee (Sowles) Morrison

March1,1954 -December8,2020

Donna went hometobewithJesus aftera courageous battle with cancer

Donna wasborninNew Westminster to Donand Dove Sowles.She graduatedfromMerritt Secondary School in 1972. Donna always loved caringfor peopleand went into nursing school at VancouverGeneral Hospital. Aftergraduationshe movedback to Merritt to pursue her nursing career

Donna’s love forGod wasshowninhow shelovedtoserve andhelp people. Oneofher favourite places washelping at thefood bank in her community

Donna leaves behind herhusband Davidand 3daughters, Tamara,Krista (Troy),Brittaney(Mikey).She also leaves behind hergrandchildrenand great grandchildren. Shewas afantastic Amma andloved hergrandchildren so very much.Theymissher andher hugs

&Bolts),

&Equipment, Plus More!!!!

Viewing -On-Site -Kelowna

Thursday/Friday(Apr 11/12) -9am-5 pm

PickUp-Small Items-Sunday(Apr 14) -9am- 4pm&

Monday/Tuesday(Apr 15/16) -9am-4 pm

Sale Subject to Additions &Deletions

Therewill be an intermentceremony forDonna’s ashesatthe Merritt Cemetery on April8,2024 at 11:00AM.

MERRITT HERALD

Hey there, go-getters and multitasking champs! Merritt Herald, the community cornerstone since 1905, is on the hunt for a Sales Dynamo/Office Ninja to spice up our crew. If you’re all about hustling, acing a zillion things at once, and have the hunger to win, hit us up!

POSITION:

SALES PERSON/OFFICE GURU

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Channel your inner sales maestro and charm your way into selling ad space at Merritt Herald.

• Juggle circulation like a pro to keep things flowing

• Dive into Accounts Receivable tasks like a boss

• Tackle the mundane office stuff with flair

• Team up for the win on sales and ops goals

• Shower clients and partners with top-notch service

QUALIFICATIONS:

• If you’ve got the gift of gab, love mingling with new faces, and thrive on making connections, this position is calling your name.

• Can you handle a bunch of tasks at once without breaking a sweat? If you’re the multitasking maestro, juggling tasks like a circus pro, then this gig is your ultimate playground

• Self-motivated, goal-crushing maniac

• Clickety-clack proficiency on them computers

• Talk the talk, walk the walk in communication and charm

• AR processes? We’ll teach you the ropes

• Solo flight or team player, you rock it either way

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Competitive compensation with commission opportunities

• Training and mentorship programs

• A chance to be part of a historic and community-centric organization

• Opportunities for career advancement

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter highlighting their relevant experience to publisher@ merrittherald.com. Please include “Sales Person/Office Admin Application - Merritt Herald” in the subject line.

At Merritt Herald, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Join us in continuing the legacy of Merritt Herald as we navigate the future together!

SUDOKU

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

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE