From devastation to hope
Three years ago, when Merritt was devastated by catastrophic flooding in November 2021, numerous community members and charitable groups stepped forward to help Merrittonians rebuild and get back on their feet.
Rotary Club of Merritt played an instrumental role in fundraising and providing direct assistance to those who were most in need of support.
“People just gave us money,” laughed Andrea Inwards, past president of the Merritt Rotary Club who was active in the 2021 flood recovery program.
“We got donations from other Rotary Clubs and the public in general, as well as some corporate donations.”
These donations, along with the proceeds from the Hell or High Water concert, a twelve hour telethon aimed at helping the Nicola Valley recover from both the flooding and earlier wildfires, eventually totalled more than one million dollars.
“We decided super early on, within a couple of days once we started getting money, that we had to be pretty organized about giving it out,” explained Inwards.
Local Merrittonians Bailee Allen and Mark Nendick, both active in the community’s Endeavour to be Better pro-
gram at the time of the flooding, launched a GoFundMe hoping to raise recovery funds as well. When the fundraiser took off and cleared more than $64,000 Allen and Nendick decided to join up with the Rotary Club and blend their fundraisers together.
The Rotary Club is entirely volunteer, and members had little experience by way of natural disaster relief or financial aid at such a high level, but that didn’t stop them from establishing themselves as quickly as possible to make a difference.
Members formed a committee and created a Terms of Reference defining what they wanted to do, who they wanted to help, and guiding principles for distributing the money. After releasing an application form hundreds of requests for help poured in.
“The only criteria was that they had to be living in the flood zone,” said Inwards.
“They could be a renter or an owner, but they had to be able to provide evidence that they lived in the flood impacted zone.”
Rotary did not take into consideration any extenuating factors such as insurance, which did not seem to be paying out adequately or at all in some cases.
Mr. and Mrs. Claus went around senior homes in Merritt for a special holiday delivery. Page 20. Photo/Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants Flower Shop
Morgan Hampton CONTRIBUTOR
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464MERRITT SPENCESBRHWY
‘I think we are all still traumatized by it’
From Page 1
“Who knows what kind of situation anybody is in,” Inwards explained.
“We just wanted to be able to provide a program that gave them some dignity. We didn’t ask them a ton of personal questions and we didn’t have any financial need questions either. You didn’t have to be poor or anything like that. Because even if you’re ok for money to get a huge bill out of the blue is hard for everybody.”
One of the hopes of the Club was to help potentially cover some costs that Red Cross or Disaster Financial Assistance couldn’t or did not.
“We wanted people to be able to go on with their lives in the meantime,” explained Inwards, who noted that Rotary also helped to refer people to other available programs.
The program disbursed funds over three phases with applicants being given at least $2,000 in the first round of assistance. Those who had more urgent needs or considerable structural damage were earmarked for Phase 2. Phase 3 was reserved for those who had faced total loss.
On an individual level, Rotary Club members were also pitching in to help with flood cleanup and the process of rebuilding.
“We just saw a need,” said Inwards.
“Our motto for Rotary is ‘Service Above Self’, so we’re in those clubs because we like to do stuff like that. And one of the things is that we talked to everyone who applied, personally. We called every single person and so we heard all the stories, so apart from
financial support we were able to make a real connection with people... people were pretty traumatized and they still are. So I think that was key as well, being able to provide a sympathetic ear.”
Looking back now, three years after the floods, Inwards believes that there are still steps to be taken to make things easier - if not for the people of Merritt then at least others who may be impacted by future events.
“I think we need a federal review of the insurance, we need something, it’s pretty criminal,” said Inwards, who also felt that there was unscrupulous treatment of seniors.
“These poor people were just overwhelmed and then the insurance companies would come in and lowball them and make them feel like they had no options.”
While the Rotary is no longer active in flood recovery and all funds have been distributed, Inwards is certain that 2021 will be a year that most in the Nicola Valley will look back on in dread for a long time to come.
“I think we’re all still traumatized by it. When you put it in with the COVID isolation and the fire threats and all the fire devastation, I think people still aren’t back to normal... that year, I think the community is still recovering. But we’re so grateful for all the donations we got and we did our best to disburse it in a fair and transparent manner.”
Back in 2022, the Rotary Club of Merritt received recognition from their local Rotary District after their efforts following the November 2021 flood. Photo/Herald file.
Grants IN Aid
OFITS + COMMUNIT YGROUPS
Grants-in-Aida re provided to non-profit orga nizations that providevalue to thecommunity as well as to communit ygroupsthat support thegoals of Council, encouraging innovation andspecial inaugu ralevent s.
Therea re twogra nt types: FinancialAid or In-Kind(applicationsthatinclude areque st forin-kind useofa City-owned facility).
Review“Policy 4- 01 Communit yG ra nt in Aid“.Thendownloadthe application .All grants must be approved by council.
CANADAPOSTISONSTRIKE. Youmaydeposit correspondenceorpaymentsintotheCity’s Mail Drop Box,located to theright of the west-facingdoors. Payments canalsobemadeatCity Hallduring regular office hours, Monday to Friday,8:30am- 4:30pm, except lunchtime:2185 VoghtStreet, Merritt,B.C. Paymentsarealsoacceptedviaonlinebankingorvia OptionPaycreditcardprocessing:merritt.ca/payment.
VALLEY NEWS
Furniture factory construction on track for 2025 completion
As construction continues on the new furniture factory project in Merritt, project manager Amy Komaratat of Alberta-based designbuild firm Eagle Builders shared key updates and insights into the new development.
The project, which began with a focus on strong foundational work, is now progressing smoothly despite the challenges presented by the winter weather. “Right now, we’re installing screw piers across the site, and the foundation is taking shape,” Komaratat said.
The precast panels arrived onsite Dec. 2, and Komaratat said that by late January, they expect to have all the panels erected.
The building, designed to be both efficient and sustainable, will include 261 precast panels and 58 hollow core slabs for the office and warehouse floors.
“Our building system is highly efficient,” she explained, “with less time, less waste, and a cleaner process overall.”
One of the most notable features of the construction is its focus on sustainability and longevity. The panels, manufactured by the company itself, are fire-resistant, durable, and designed for long-term use. The structure will also feature knockout panels, allowing for future expansion by simply relocating panels rather than demolishing parts of the building.
Additionally, the building’s high-
performance curtain wall system, designed to maximize natural light and energy efficiency, will reduce heating costs while providing a modern aesthetic.
Komaratat emphasized that the use of these advanced materials is not just about efficiency, but also about building a structure that can withstand Merritt’s variable weather conditions, including heavy snowfalls and strong winds.
While the construction team is focused on the building’s foundation and structure, interior work will begin by March. “Once we have the envelope closed, we can begin on the interior,” she said.
This includes flooring, drywall, and the installation of office partitions. By mid-year, the exterior will be completed, including landscaping, parking, and the site’s overall layout.
Eagle Builders has a history of working with Mako Furniture, a furniture manufacturer that hopes to develop deep ties to the community. “They are very particular about what they want to achieve,” Amy noted.
The new building will reflect their dedication to their heritage, with plans to incorporate native language
PLUMBING &HEATING
and logos on the monument signage as a tribute to the land and the local Indigenous Peoples. The project remains on schedule for completion by July 2025.
Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com
Abraham Sheena - Grade 6
Ring the bells in Merritt, B.C.
Ring the bells across the snow
Sing your songs and play your drums
For there is a star in the sky
And a shadow in the night
There is a mother’s prayer
And a baby’s low cry
For the manger of Bethlehem cradles a king.
Ring the bells across the snow
Bring sweet herald of good will
With holy songs of glory
With peace and hope to lighten the world
As we listen to the bells across the snow.
Come, come to the manger
Come and ring the bells across the snow
Ring in the thousand years of peace
Ring in the healing of the land
Ring in the love of truth and righteousness
Ring in the love of Jesus
Born on the first Christmas day
To give us eternal life.
By Shobha Mitra – member of the Merritt Baptist Church
DIXON: How to stay calm at Holiday gatherings
BONNIE DIXON
Holiday gatherings bring joy, connection—and sometimes, challenging interactions. Maintaining your composure can feel daunting, whether it’s a critical relative, an overly energetic friend, or someone who tests your patience. Instead of avoiding or confronting them, why not try a new approach this year?
P.S. This works all year long!
Here are five ways to stay sane, calm, and kind during those tricky moments:
Listen More, Speak Less
Sometimes, just being heard can calm even the most challenging person. Practice active listening – nod, maintain eye contact, and respond with neutral phrases like, “I see what you mean.” Resist the urge to argue or defend, and watch how tensions ease.
Breathe Before Responding
When emotions run high, take a deep breath. Try this calming technique: inhale for four counts, hold for four, then exhale for four. It helps you stay
grounded, think clearly, and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. This is my favorite one to practice!
Excuse Yourself Politely
If a conversation drains your energy, stepping away is okay. Say, “Excuse me, I need to refill my drink,” or “Let me check in with Aunt Jane,” and shift to a more pleasant interaction.
Set Boundaries with Grace
Prepare for sensitive topics by steering the conversation to safer ground. Use phrases like, “Let’s save that for another time—tell me about your vacation!” to defuse tension while remaining polite.
Focus on What Brings You Joy
Redirect your energy to things you enjoy: a warm conversation with a supportive family member, savoring delicious food, stepping outside momentarily to appreciate nature, or enjoying a quiet moment by the fireplace.
The key to surviving tricky holiday dynamics is mindfulness. You may not change others, but with these strategies, you can protect your peace of mind and enjoy the celebration.
Arts Council: Little free art gallery to foster creativity and art exchange
NV ARTS COUNCIL
The Nicola Valley Community Arts Council is excited to present the Little Free Art Gallery! Installed at the corner of Nicola and Voght Street at the Nicola Valley Arts Centre, this project was brought to life by a Local Love Fund from the United Way, support from Merritt Home Hardware, and many hours of work from our volunteers (thank you, Roland Auer, for building it and several of our volunteers for painting).
Media director Kerstin Auer first brought the project to the Arts Council after her daughter-in-law Madison sent her a picture of a Little Free Art Gallery she had seen online. The directors fully supported the idea and once funding was obtained from the United Way, the work began. It’s a perfect fit for the Arts Council’s mission to connect community through the arts.
The concept is much like the Free Little Libraries, just for Art. Leave art you made or collected, take art to make your heart happy. The NVCAC added several art kits and supplies to kick off the project, and within a few days, the first works of art were deposited in the little gallery! The Arts Council will continue to stock art supplies to encourage budding or established artists and artisans of all ages to participate. All art is welcome! Please handle the Little Free Art Gallery with care and help make this a treasured part of our community.
From the
archives: Dec., 1988 WOMAN CHIEF
In what is being described as a landmark election, the Lower Nicola Indian Band has elected a woman as chief to rule their native community. Heather Trotsy was declared winner of the election Thursday evening shortly after the polls were closed. Her 52 votes defeated incumbet chief Francis Shuter by more than 24 votes.
The election was close on all counts and Trotsky onlt just won by shading out John Gordon Jackson by eight votes.
“I’m not the only first woman chief for the Band but also the first woman chief in the Nicola Valley.”
LETTERS
The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Judge gives convicted frauster green light to handle cash at new job
Cell:250-315-5820 bouellet.remax@gmail.com
A former CIBC manager from Merritt who avoided jail after swindling $157,000 from her mother in law and the bank has caught another break.
Despite concerns from a prosecutor, a judge on Tuesday ordered that Hope Moira Donna Thomas, 43, should be allowed to handle cash at the salon where she now works in a managerial role.
Thomas is still serving a two-year conditional sentence order put in place last year after she pleaded guilty to one count of fraud over $5,000. Court heard she stole the money to bankroll a drug addiction.
In 2019, while she was a manager at the Merritt CIBC branch, Thomas redeemed $59,000 worth of mutual funds she had purchased for her mother in law. She also removed $34,000 from a joint account shared by her husband and mother in law, and obtained $64,000 by opening lines of credit and taking out loans in her mother in law’s name.
She avoided jail in part to allow her to work to pay back the $157,000 she stole, as well as a $300,000 fine levied by the Mutual Fund Dealers Association.
A condition of Thomas’ sentence prohibits her from “having authority over” money or anything valuable as part of her work.
In September, when she told her probation officer that she was handling small
amounts of cash at work, Thomas was told to file an application to vary her sentence so that she would avoid a breach charge.
She said she’s being promoted to manager of the salon she has been working at for the last two years.
“My duties include making schedules and just running the day-to-day operations,” she said. “The owner does all of our banking and all of our payroll — I have nothing to do with it.”
Thomas said she will handle cash at a till, but that’s it.
Crown prosecutor Camille Cook opposed the application and said Thomas’ plan is not realistic.
“There are instances where who knows what can happen, and I don’t think Ms. Thomas can 100 per cent never be involved with the handling of money,” she said.
“It just seems really implausible. If somebody gets sick and she’s the only person available and she’s in a managerial role, how is it that she will not be doing any of that?”
But Kamloops provincial court Judge Ray Phillips granted the application and varied the condition, pointing to Thomas’ sobriety and the lack of any breaches to this point in her sentence.
“You’ve been accountable as far as I can see, so I am going to cut you a bit of a break here,” he said.
Tim Petruk CASTANET
Photo/Kamloops This Week file
The gift of supporting small businesses this holiday season
Clint Raskob, Resale Therapy
“It’s nice to have local people shopping in our store. When you’re in a small town like this it’s good to look after your small town businesses, at any time of the year.”
Jeanine Gustafson, Vision Quest Optical and Gifts
“If people shopped downtown just once a month we could keep the stores open. If you shop in person instead of online you don’t have to wait for things and it keeps the money in town. Amazon has enough money, we need to keep our local stores open. And if you do need something one day you’re going to be upset because all the stores are closed.”
Ashley Lockie, Fetch Dog Grooming & Boutique
“It’s important to support small businesses. You don’t have to wait for your orders you can just come right on in store and we do a lot of discounts and senior days. You get friendly staff and good customer service, you get to see a person face to face.”
Serena Garcia, Valley Graze
“Choosing small businesses means creating jobs, sustaining local growth, and building lasting relationships.”
Sarah Forsberg, Purity Feed Farm & Garden
“It supports all of us as employees who work here because we are all locals, and the more business that comes in keeps us afloat and keeps us with our jobs. We also have a lot of small businesses in the store that we support as well, like soaps and honey and coffee. And we are the only local feed store and a lot of people rely on us, it would be bad for the community if we closed down.”
Amanda Schweitzer, The Social Lounge
“Shopping local creates a demand for more businesses, and opens up the way for more unique storefronts and not just office spaces. We need to draw more people downtown for a thriving economy where all businesses can make a good living instead of relying on businesses in Kamloops or Kelowna for our needs.”
Renee Henry, Earthwalker Spiritual Shop
“It’s so important to shop local because when you invest in us we are able to reinvest in our community. Earthwalker has donated to multiple charities last year alone. We remember connections and ask how your sister/brother/etc. is doing and I make sure your gift is wrapped properly for the journey ahead. Without local support a small business can really suffer.”
Almerina Rizzardo, Creative Company
“For us at Creative Company it’s important that people buy local because everything that’s in here is made locally and it supports a number of families, a number of single women. It helps with the community, it makes donations to the local Food Bank, and we can’t do that unless people come and buy some of the products that are here.”
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Power line down in Lower Nicola
Morgan Hampton CONTRIBUTOR
A downed power line in Lower Nicola caused a traffic holdup on the afternoon of Thursday, Dec. 5.
“There was a trouble call in Lower Nicola, west of Merritt,” said Susan Edgell, BC Hydro Community Relations Advisor for the Merritt area.
“One of our local crews responded in 45 minutes, and made temporary repairs to a wire that had come down off one of our power poles.”
Vehicles travelling in both directions on Hwy 8, just west of the Aberdeen Rd. turnoff, were held up as local civilians informed those up and down the line
of traffic that the road was currently impassable pending the arrival of a BC Hydro crew for assessment and repairs.
Witnesses reported seeing a bin truck or similar vehicle driving with its box up in the area, although this was unconfirmed by BC Hydro, who could only say it was likely that a truck or transport truck had snagged the line, causing it to fall.
“Crews fixed it up as quickly as they could so traffic could flow again,” said Edgell.
“After the traffic problem died down, another crew showed up about an hour later to make permanent repairs to the line.”
Contest to raise youth awareness on substance use
Morgan Hampton CONTRIBUTOR
Interior Health is hoping to make youth aware of the impacts of tobacco, cannabis, and alcohol use, as well as vaping, with their third installment of the “Beyond the Buzz” poster contest.
According to Interior Health, youth in B.C.’s Interior have a higher self-reported rate of substance use when compared to the provincial average. A BC Adolescent Health Survey from 2023 revealed that:
- BC youth were more likely to have vaped in the past month than to have ever tried smoking (26 per cent vs. 15 per cent)
- Rural based youth were more likely than those from urban areas to have used substances
- Emerging trends indicate that youth who start vaping are three times more likely to begin smoking
- Youth are beginning to experiment with substance use at younger ages compared to previous years (i.e. before age 12)
- 34 per cent of Interior BC youth have reported experimenting with cannabis use (compared to 22 per cent of all BC youth)
- 51 per cent of Interior BC youth have reported experimenting with alcohol (compared to 38 per cent of all BC youth)
“The Beyond the Buzz poster contest provides an opportunity for youth within the IH region to express their creativity in an impactful way,” said Jared Dennis, legal substance reduction coordinator for Interior Health.
“By designing posters, youth can visualize and communicate anti-smoking, vap -
ing, cannabis and alcohol messages that resonate with their peers. This creative approach often results in more engaging and memorable content than traditional educational methods.”
Participants must be a grade 6-12 student living in the Interior Health region, and the poster must represent one of the following themes:
Alcohol: the silent damage of alcohol; health risks and impacts.
Tobacco: clear the air; the environmental toll of tobacco.
Vape: hidden impacts of vaping; health risks and misconceptions.
Cannabis: your brain and cannabis; impacts on mental health and well-being.
“Participating in a poster contest gives youth a sense of agency and empowerment,” continued Dennis.
“They are given a platform to voice their opinions and contribute to a larger social cause. This involvement can make them feel more personally invested in promoting health behaviours. Young people are more likely to listen to and be influenced by their peers. When their friends and fellow students see anti-smoking messages in a format they respect or find interesting, they are more likely to consider quitting or avoiding smoking, vaping or drinking.”
The poster contest closes Dec. 15, 2024 and artists of the selected designs can win up to a $150 gift card. For more information visit: https://www.interiorhealth.ca/ information-for/youth/beyond-the-buzzcontest.
PASSPORT
RULES & REGULATIONS
1. With a minimum purchase of $20 you will receive one entry form from the store clerk, up to 20 entry forms ($400) per purchase. The entry form must have a MH stamp or the business stamp, or entry will be invalid.
2. Be sure to bring a pen so you can fill in the entry then, or you can bring your entry back at a later date.
3. Boxes will be provided at the stores to drop off your entry.
4. All prizes awarded in Gift Certificates. 1st Place: $1100 2nd Place: $500, 3rd Place: $300. WINNERS WILL BE DRAWN FROM ALL COMPLETED ENTRY FORMS RECEIVED BY DEC. 20, 2024 AT 10 AM. Prizes must be accepted as awarded, no cash value.
5. There is no limit to the total number of entries.
6. The winners must be 19 years of age or older.
7. Double entries if you purchase a food bank donation from one of the local participating businesses.
8. Final draw to be made December 20, 2024.
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Softwood lumber duties a top priority, new Forests minister say
As the new minister of Forests, Ravi Parmar may have one of the toughest cabinet posts in David Eby’s NDP government.
He will be under pressure to do something about the regulatory burden in B.C. that has been killing B.C. forest sector jobs at a time when B.C.’s forest sector faces crippling tariffs and duties from the U.S.
Softwood lumber exports to the U.S. already face 14.5 per cent duties, and could double next year. That’s irrespective of whether or not President-Elect Donald Trump makes good on his threat to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico.
“This is going to be devastating to the forest sector,” Parmar said, as he discussed his priorities as the new minister of Forests.
“The first top priority that I’ve made, front and centre, each and every day is softwood lumber,” said Parmar, who served as a ministerial adviser to the minister of Forests from 2019 to 2020.
Earlier this year, in its fifth annual review (AR), the U.S. Department of Commerce set final anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports at 14.5 per cent. They could get even worse in 2025.
“We expect that the sixth AR is looking at a 15 per cent increase on top of that,” Parmar said. “These are significant increases.”
American duties on softwood lumber is just one of a litany of challenges that forestry companies have faced over the last few years in B.C.
Since 2017, the NDP government has added new regulations and policies that have made it increasingly difficult for B.C. sawmills and pulp mills to continue to operating.
More than a dozen sawmill and pulp mills have permanently shuttered in B.C. in the past four years, and this year alone, two forestry companies – Teal Jones and, more recently, San Group – have filed for creditor protection.
With every sawmill closure in recent years, owners have cited the same problem: Lack of access to economic fibre.
A big part of the problem is a shrinking annual allowable cut (AAC). But forest industry leaders point out that, after all the mill closures that have occurred in recent years, there is an adequate amount of AAC to keep the existing mills running, except that it has been made inaccessible due to cost and red tape.
In the 1990s, B.C. was harvesting 95 per cent of the province’s annual allowable cut (AAC), Rob Schuetz, president of Industrial Forest Services, said at a Global Wood Summit in November.
Since the B.C. NDP came to power in 2017, the percentage of the AAC that is actually cut has fallen below 50 per cent, Schuetz said.
Mina Lauden, vice president of corporate affairs for Canfor Corp. (TSX:CFP), said at recent resourc-
es and energy forum sponsored by the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT) that B.C. has enough timber to supply sawmills and pulp mills, but that its often inaccessible due to cost and “regulatory complexity.”
“Foundationally, for British Columbia, it’s about access to economically available fibre,” Lauden said. “We have the harvest available in the province. It’s about accessing it economically and reliably.”
“Regulations are only one part of the fibre story that we have here in British Columbia,” Parmar said.
He blames the big forestry companies for essentially cutting and running – i.e. harvesting the most valuable timber first, when prices were high, and not making the investments needed to access some of the less economic timber.
A number of companies that have shut down sawmills in B.C. have bought or built new sawmills in the U.S. and Europe, due to a greater availability of merchantable timber.
“During the pine beetle kill, when lumber prices were high, in 2021 and 2022, Canfor and many other companies harvested much of their easily accessible timber, leaving a lot of their vast fibre supply without proper access, expecting to deal with it later,” Parmar said.
“Those same companies that made those decisions did not decide to utilize the millions and sometimes billions of profits that they gained to access to what we refer to as uneconomic fibre. Instead, they left it for later, and now it’s later, and unfortunately, forestry workers…are paying the price for those kinds of business decisions.”
But industry analysts have said NDP forestry policies and regulations are to blame for the mill closures and flight of capital, saying they have made B.C. “uninvestable.”
Some of those new policies and regulations include old growth harvesting moratoria, new forest landscape plans, ecosystem-based land management, increasing parks and protected areas, shared land-use decisionmaking with First Nations, and federal and provincial caribou habitat protection plans.
Since his appointment as Forests minister three weeks ago, Parmar said he has met with the Council of Forest Industries (COFI), the United Steelworkers union, which represents forestry workers, and other stakeholders.
“All of those stakeholders and partners that make up the forest sector have asked a lot of me and expect a lot from me, and I expect to deliver for them,” he said. “But I’m also going to be asking much of them.
“When I have conversations with Canfor, and West Fraser and Tolko and many of these other partners, I will be looking to them to say that ‘you’ve made some money here in British Columbia, especially in 2021 and 2022. Where are those profits? Are those profits going down south, are they going to Europe? Why are they not being made here in British Columbia?’”
While he gave no indication his government would
reconsider forestry policies and regulations that the industry blames for making B.C. one of the highest cost jurisdictions in North America to operate, he did promise to shorten permitting times.
“In my conversations with the staff in the ministry of Forests, I’ve already authorized them to expedite permit approvals,” he said.
He noted that his ministry has already accelerated permitting for wildfire wood salvaging, noting that in the Cariboo region, all wildfire salvage permits applied for were approved within less than 25 days.
Parmar said he hoped that, through the government’s new forest landscape planning tables, there may be ways to “speed things up.”
As for tariffs and duties, Parmar said his top priority will be pressing Ottawa to address the issue.
“With duties going up next year – outside of the 25 per cent tariffs from the incoming president – just the increase in duties that we’re expected to see, I think those are going to devastating,” he said. “I’m going to be looking to Ottawa to provide the necessary support for us to be able to bridge these unfortunate times.”
Nelson Bennett BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER
Survivor of 1986 drunk driving crash reflects on the lasting pain of loss and injury
Morgan Hampton CONTRIBUTOR
Warning: This article contains details some readers might find disturbing.
It was May and Expo ‘86 had just kicked off in Vancouver. All of B.C. was riding on a wave of pride and elation for what promised to be a funfilled five months.
ankle was injured almost to the point of amputation, “Only skin was attaching my foot to the rest of me.”
Gustafson’s sister survived the immediate impact but was fatally injured.
around the corner and stopped at the accident scene. Despite her serious ankle injury, Gustafson made it to the car.
“I got up there and I asked him to help, I told him ‘I need your help’ and he said he didn’t want to get involved,” Gustafson said.
But for Jeanine Gustafson, May 4, 1986 was the day that her life was permanently altered by a drunk driver.
Gustafson, her sister Harlene, and a friend had been at a dance in Boston Bar. Their friend didn’t drink and had come along as the designated driver to ensure everyone arrived home safely.
“After the accident I was talking to my sister, and you see all these wonderful shows on TV where people say these profound things and that they love you, all she could say was help me. And then she stopped talking.”
Although she wasn’t aware of it at the time, Gustafson’s sister Harlene had died. She was just one month shy of her 21st birthday.
Later, Gustafson learned this same bystander received an award for the role he claimed to have played in helping her.
“We were coming back home and we were just by Lake of the Woods and this car was coming right at us in our lane,” Gustafson recalled.
“There was a semi on the other side so there was nowhere to move to not get hit... the lady that hit us tried to pass the semi and she was in our lane.”
The cars hit head on, sending both vehicles and their occupants off of the road and down an embankment. The driver of the other car was killed instantly in the collision.
“I had a bigger car with more crumple room,” said Gustafson.
“Because of that I managed to live. But her whole front axle was in the backseat of her car, there was nothing left of her.”
Jeanine’s eldest daughter was 11 months old at the time of the accident, but fortunately she had been left with a babysitter for the first time since she was born, but this didn’t stop Gustafson from needing to reassure herself her daughter was alright in her frightened, disoriented state.
“As a mom, the first thing I did was turn around and look at the car seat in the backseat,” Gustafson explained.
“She wasn’t in it, of course, but that car seat was bent in half. There was no way she could have possibly lived through it.”
“He didn’t do anything. He stopped, he didn’t hit our car, but that was it. He took credit for everything. I was in the hospital for ten days so I didn’t know, it was at least ten years before I found that out. I went to the museum in Yale and they had these folders of old newspapers and for whatever reason I just looked at that date and it was astounding to read this guy had gotten an award. He never got out of his car, not even when the police were there.”
The driver of the car that had hit Gustafson’s, it turned out, had had a fight with her husband and had been drinking heavily, travelling in a different vehicle than him. After Gustafson had crawled out of the wreckage the woman’s husband arrived.
He asked where his wife was and became hysterical when Gustafson told him about the accident and the fact that there was no way his wife had survived.
The driver of Gustafson’s car broke “everything” and was in a coma for some time, facing a long and difficult recovery when he awoke. Gustafson herself was badly cut in multiple places and badly bruised by the seatbelt. Her
Gustafson tried to get out of the car but her door wouldn’t budge. The front of the car was so badly damaged she couldn’t get out that way either, so she pulled herself from her seat and over the other passengers to get out a window.
“I started crawling up the hill and that was taking too long, so I stood up and I walked anyway because I needed help,” said Gustafson.
A car with a couple had come
“I ended up slapping him and telling him that he had to get the people out of my car,” Gustafson recalled.
Gustafson’s car was so badly mangled the door had to be ripped off in
STAY SOBER, STAY SAFE: DON’T DRINK OR DRIVE
‘It was 39 years ago and the effects are still here’
From Page 16
order to remove Harlene’s body and the driver. After he had done what he could in this regard, the husband of the other driver went further down the embankment to his wife’s car just as fire, police, and ambulance arrived.
“As soon as he was out of sight her car exploded,” said Gustafson.
“There was shrapnel everywhere.”
The woman’s husband wasn’t seriously injured by the explosion but as far as Gustafson knew he disappeared afterward for quite some time, with no one but her aware that he had ever been at the scene at all.
Upon viewing her ankle and a particularly deep gash down to the bone on her knee, a police officer began vomiting and Gustafson was sent to Chilliwack General Hospital for care, which was only the beginning of her long road to recovery.
“The doctors kept saying I shouldn’t have been alive,” Gustafson said.
Unbeknownst to her, muscles around her heart had been damaged by the impact of the crash and her seatbelt.
“The pain got really bad and I guess I was passing out so the other ladies in the room went and found nurses,” said Gustafson, who was wrongly believed to be having a heart attack.
“You’re 19 and you’ve got all these people running at you with equipment and they did the paddles because they thought it was a heart attack to begin with.”
A chest x-ray was ordered, but Gustafson’s leg was in traction in a full cast. Doctors made the decision to
lower her leg in order to find out what was wrong with her heart.
“The pain was unbearable, I passed out because that’s what pain can do. The only way to do a chest x-ray was with the person standing and I couldn’t stand. When I came to I was literally taped to the x-ray machine, they had sheets wrapped around me holding me up.”
Gustafson was told that, because of her injuries, she would likely be in a wheelchair by the time she was 30. Fortunately, she has been able to avoid that so far but said it has been a struggle.
“Every single day since the accident I’ve been in extreme pain, I can hardly walk some days.”
Orthopedic surgeons told Gustafson that she would have to wait until ankle replacements came into standard practice, once they had she was informed they would have to wait until they were perfected. Ankle replacements are now a regular, effective, and recommended treatment for many people but Gustafson has been told she is still “too young” for one, losing hope that she will ever be helped with her daily pain, which has also impacted her children.
“There were times I couldn’t even pick them up and carry them... it’s not a nice feeling to not be able to pick up your babies.”
Even now that her children are adults Gustafson stresses to parents how important it is to reduce accidents and keep their kids safe by always being a phone call away.
“My kids would always call for
rides, and their friends would too,” said Gustafson.
“I’d pick them up, no questions asked and tell them not to worry about it. I’d take them home if they wanted or they could come to my house. I had other parents get mad at me because I picked their kids up and didn’t tell them, but that’s why the kids called me, because it was safe. Just call and I’ll come get you.”
Reflecting on the accident that cost her her sister and still causes her physical and emotional pain, Gustafson had little to say about drunk driving except for, “Just don’t.”
The woman who made the choice to drive impaired lived only five minutes from the bar she had been at and could have easily found another way home. Gustafson knows this because she knew her, and in fact had been a neighbour at one time.
There was no reason for her to drink and drive and the consequences have lasted for nearly four decades, and will continue to last into the future.
“I would have a sister, and probably nieces and nephews,” said Gustafson.
“We have a gigantic family and everyone always did everything together, Christmas, holidays, BBQs, and after the accident no one knew how to talk to me, so they just didn’t. And the total lack of pain would be novel. I don’t know what it’s like not to be in pain.”
Even as a survivor of the accident, Gustafson’s life was forever changed.
“It was 39 years ago and the effects are still there,” Gustafson said.
Merritt Centennials fall to Spokane in overtime, defeat Beaver Valley
Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com
Friday, Dec. 6 – Merritt Centennials 2, Spokane Braves 3
The Merritt Centennials fell against the Spokane Braves 3-2 on Friday at the Eagles Ice Arena in Spokane.
The Cents came out of the gate strong and put a lot of pressure on the home team.
Jobie Siemens found the back of the net for the Centennials and scored his first goal of the season, just over two minutes in.
Spokane would quickly answer back on the power play less than a minute later.
Merritt would take back the lead before the end of first period however when Sam Giangualano got his twelfth goal of the season on the power play, sending the Cents into the first intermission with a one goal lead.
During the second frame, neither side could crack the each other’s defense, despite numerous close chances at both ends.
The Braves managed to tie the game during a 5-on-4 for the Cents, when Spokane’s Owen Ames managed to break out shorthanded.
With the game locked at 2-2 until the end of the final period, both teams headed to overtime to decide a winner.
Two minutes and one second is all it took for a winner to be decided in overtime, as Lance Insko scored to seal a 3-2 win for the Spokane Braves.
Saturday,
Dec. 7 – Merritt Centennials 5, Beaver Valley
Nitehawks 3
The Merritt Centennials defeated the Beaver Valley Nitehawks 5-3 on Saturday at the Beaver Valley Arena in Fruitvale.
Merritt set its dominance through the first period, as Brayden Thurlow (8) found the back of the net, opening the score, and was quickly followed by Dylan Ruff (8) to make it a 2-0 lead.
The two-goal lead would be gone just under 30 seconds later, as the Nitehawks managed to put it past Cents’ goalie Mathis Perron.
Merritt would increase its lead with Sam Gianguanlano (13) by the end of the period.
Maxim Radmanovich put it past the goalie for the Centennials just under three minutes into the second period, making the score 4-1.
Beaver Valley added a goal of their own by the end of the second period with Joel Smyth, shortening the lead for the Cents.
In the final frame, the Nitehawks managed to find the back of the net during power play, making it 4-3
The tight lead would carry until the very last nineteen seconds of the game, when Steven Foster (16) crowned the victory for Merritt with an empty net goal.
With the 5-3 win over Beaver Valley, the Centennials found their way back into the win column. Merritt will hit the ice this Friday, Dec. 13, against the Kelowna Chiefs at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.
New or slightly used stuffed teddy bears or toys only Wrapped and tied in clear plastic bags Also sold at rink $5, $10, $15 Teddy Bears are tossed when Merritt scores our first goal!
Community singers will be singing Christmas carols at 1st intermission Please Join In!
There were 74,599 tossed at a Hersey Bears game
Photo/Laísa Condé
KIJHL STANDINGS to Dec. 10
Nicola Valley Skating Club athletes shine at Okanagan InterClub
Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com
The Nicola Valley Skating Club (NVSC) had a strong showing at the Okanagan InterClub competition held in Kamloops from Nov. 22-24. Hosted by the Valleyview Skating Club, the event marked the first competition of the season for the NVSC athletes, and they certainly made an impression.
Under the guidance of their coach, Diana Lorenz, the skaters had been preparing since the Summer Skate, working on new programs and refining their skills. Many athletes were moving up to higher competition levels, while others had received new music and free-skate programs for the season.
Despite this being their first competition of the year, the athletes delivered impressive performances across multiple events, showcasing significant progress. Several competitors participated in two separate events, with some improving their Free-Skate program scores as well as their elements performances.
Among the highlights of the competition were numerous personal bests across all categories. The results were a testament to the athletes’ dedication and the hard work they’ve put in over the past months.
Here are the NVSC results from the Okanagan InterClub:
STAR 1-3 Ribbons/STAR 4 & Up Podium Placements
STAR 3
Gr. 2: Olivia Boone - Silver
Gr. 4: Aziza Earle - Silver
Gr. 5: Meera Dutt - Gold
Gr. 7: Avery Starrs - Bronze
STAR 3 Elements: Avery StarrsGold
STAR 1
Gr. 10: Imroz Brar - Bronze
STAR 2
Gr. 3: Sloane Mulyk - Bronze
STAR 5 (13 & Over)
Jayda Starrs - 6th place
STAR 5 Elements: Jayda StarrsBronze
COMMUNITY
Holiday spirit soars as Christmas trees are delivered to senior homes
Morgan Hampton CONTRIBUTOR
When Vicki Hansen of Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants Flower Shop put out the call for donations to help cover the cost of small, potted Christmas trees for seniors in care, the community responded with tremendous support.
This past Saturday, Dec. 7, 178 of those trees went out to brighten seniors’ holidays, but the best part of the day just might have been the delivery service.
Decked out in full costume were Roger White as Santa Claus, Pam Reimer as Mrs. Claus, and Liz Scotton as a Christmas elf.
“They were amazing,” said Hansen.
“I popped into Coquihalla-Gillis House to do a delivery and all the staff were so thankful that they did the delivery.”
Similarly, at Nicola Meadows at least half a dozen people thanked Hansen for their Christmas trees after the deliveries had been made, making special note of the fun they had seeing Santa.
“A few times during the visits I thought, you know, we may be the only visitors some of the residents will see this Christmas aside from facility staff,” said Roger White.
“So this meant a lot to me to be able to share a few tears, some stories, and a lot of smiles with our seniors.”
A further 90 trees will be coming to the flower shop this week. These will be delivered to Aysnley Court, Phelan House, Interior Health shut ins, and several people at the hospital waiting for long term care.
Hansen also hopes to deliver to Trade Winds Terrace, an ASK wellness/BC Housing seniors living facility.
“The nurses station at the hospital, and front desk staff at the Florentine, Nicola Meadows, and Coquihalla-Gillis House will be getting either a planter or a fresh arrangement,” said Hansen.
Despite having two staff to help, Hansen said she has been “putting in a lot of hours”, and no doubt is looking forward to the close of the busy Christmas season, although she jokes that even if she defies her nature and retires, she’ll still probably be spreading Christmas joy to the community one way or another.
“I was really glad the shop was able to bring some Christmas cheer to the seniors. I really felt it when I did the deliveries, it warms the heart, those smiles meant the world to me... What a great town we live in!”
■ Approved mini-storage
■ On-siterentals
■ Secured
■ SaleofNew&Used storagecontainers
1750HillStreet ■ Phone:250-315-3000
THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU
Crossroads Community Church
2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911
Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464
Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899
Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 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
Mr. and Mrs. Claus paid a visit to senior homes around Merritt to deliver potted Christmas trees for seniors in care. Photos/Miss Vicki Petals & Plants Flower Shop/ The Florentine
HerbLorenz
CLASSIFIEDS
September25,1941 - November26,2024
Itiswithheavyheartsthatweannouncethepassingof HerbertArmandLorenz, alongtimeresidentofMerritt. Herbpassedawaypeacefullyathomesurroundedbyhis family, aftera courageousbattlewithcancer.
HerbwasbornnearSt.Walburg,SaskatchewantoAdam andEvelynLorenz.GrowingupinthePrairies,Herbworked variousjobswhilehelpingoutonthefamilyfarm.Attheageof18helefthome toattendtheUniversityofSaskatchewan,fundinghiseducationbyworkingasa taxidriver,bartender, andporterontheCNRail.
As aporterhetravelledvaststretchesofCanada,gaining abettersenseof wherehewouldliketosettle.UltimatelyhechoseMerrittBC,wherehelived happilywiththeloveofhislifeMaureenandtheirsons,JasonandDarren.
Herbwasdeeplydevotedtohiscommunity.Hewasactivelyinvolvedin numerouslocalorganizationsandprojects,wherehisleadership,generosity,and enthusiasmleft alastingimpactonMerrittanditsresidents.
Herbwasa dedicatedmemberandpresidentoftheKinsmenClub,andclub captainandlaterpresidentoftheMerrittGolfandCountryClub.
Herbenjoyeda briefcareeras ateacheratMSS,butwasmostknownas theproprietorofMerrittAutomotiveSuppliesLtd.HewasnamedMerritt’s EntrepreneuroftheYearin1995.
Inretirement,heandMaureentraveledextensively,exploringmuchofthe worldtogether.Herbalsocherishedgolfing,fishing,andsocializingwithfriends. Hisannualfishingtripswithhissons,grandson,andclosefriendswereespecially memorable.
InHerb’s finalyearshefoundjoyinspendingtimewithfamilyandfriends, oftenhostingdinnersonweekendsandcreatinglastingmemoriesthrough conversationandconnections.
Herblived averyfulllifeandmadesuretoenjoythetimehewasgiven.Hewill besadlymissedbyMaureen,Jason(Diana),Darren(Susie),andgrandchildren Carter,Amelie,Isabelle,Claire,andEli.
CelebrationofLifetofollowinMay2025
MERRITT &DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY
There is much talk these daysabout ‘closure’. Saying good-byetosomeone welove, even after theyhavedied, doesn’t require that weput an end tothe relationship
www.merritthospice.org
Email:merritthospice@shaw.ca
•Wages:starting$20to$28
•Steadydayshiftwork
•Studentswelcometoapply
•Noexperiencenecessary
Excellentmedical&dentalplan Pleasesubmitresumeinpersonto 1195HoustonStreet,MerrittB.C. 250-378-6161
LOG PROCESSOR/GRAPPLE SKIDDER OPERATORS
Company: Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corpor ation
Location: Merrit t, BC
Reports to: Logging Supervisor
Deadline: Friday December 20 th, 2024
TheLower Nicola Indian BandDevelopment Corpor ation and it s entity Shulus Forest Enterprises LP are looking for equipment oper ator s to join their logging oper ations The succes sful candidates will have proven experience oper ating dangle -head proces sors and/or gr apple skidders These are produc tion orientatedpositions and will require highly motivated individuals. We of fer ex tremely competitive wages with paid tr avel time to and from work, and overtime paidinaccordance with BC Employment Standards.
Basic Responsibilities & Job Description:
• Clean and lubricate equipment and refill equipment tanks
• Conduct pre- oper ational checks on equipment
• Record and maintain daily records
• Communicate the need for material and equipment for job, asnecessar y
• Report any required or preventative maintenance to supervisor
• Able to identif y hazards
• Ensure site cleanlines s is maintained
• At tention to detail, critical thinking, problem solving
• Follow all company safety protocols
• Identif y and report any required or preventative maintenance to supervisor
• Timelyand accurate completion of all required paperwor k
• Must be willing and able to as sist with groundwork as required
• Oper ate 2-way radio
• Excellent time management and multi-tasking with ability to prioritize in a demanding environment
• Proven ability to build strong relationships with customer s and commitmentto providing exceptional service
• Strong communication, creativit y, and problem-solving skills
• Willingnes s to work out oftown, as required
• At tention to detail and accuracy
• Other job-related duties as required
Requirements:
• Valid Firs t AidLevel1
• Validunrestricted driver ’s license and clean drivers abstract
• Complete any Corpor ate Orientation and WHIMIS 2015
• Dr ug and Alcohol testing, as required
• Past equipment oper ation experience
• Ability to oper ate requiredequipment in a safe and responsible manner
Physical Demands:
Position requires employee to frequently stand, walk, twis t, bend, reach and kneel. Employees must be able to lift 50 lbs above shoulder height
Work Environment: Work is outdoors inrough terr ain andunder ex treme weather conditionsand in environmentally sensitive area at times.
Probation Period: This position is subjec t to a 3-month probationary period
Please forward all cover letters, resumes and suppor ting documents to General Manager, Don Gossoo via email: don.gossoo@lnibdc.com by 4:30 pm, December 20th, 2024.
P:250-280-1701
Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries
LYTTONFIRSTNATION
EmploymentOpportunity ELECTORALOFFICER
LandAct: NoticeofApplicationfora DispositionofCrownLand
LyttonFirstNation(LFN)iss yttonFirst NationElectionforone(1)chie s.LFNisstill undertheIndianActElectionR andAdministrator. Pleaseidentifyinyourproposalth elowandQuoteto runthe2025LFNElection.
Criteria:
LICENSED CANNABIS
•ElectoralOfficerqualifiedandrecognizedbyIndigenousService Canada
•BeIndependentandProfessional
•Experiencedrunningbandelections
•Organized
•Availabletotakephonecallsonquestionsorclarificationon electionprocess
Duties:
TakenoticethatI, 186EnergyInc., from West VancouverBChave applied to theBritish ColumbiaMinistryof Water, Landand ResourceStewardship (WLRS),ThompsonOkanagan Region foraInvestigativeLicence to determine asibilityofapotentialSolarPV oltaic)andpotentialHybrid CleanEnergy Projecton Provincial nlandnearMamitLakeandabout kmSEofLoganLake.
•WorkwiththeMembershipClerktoacquireeligiblevoterslist/ addresses
•Appointdeputy
•Setdatesfornoticeofnominatio
•Sendoutnoticeofnominatio embers andpostatbandofficeandbulleti acebook, ensureallsuppliesareavailabl hart, extensioncords,laptop,projecto
•Runnominationmeetingwit
WLRSinvitescommentsonthis application.TheLands Fileis3413746. ncommentsconcerningthis applicationshouldbedirected to theSeniorLandOfficer,Thompson Okanagan Region,WLRS, at441 lumbiaStreet, Kamloops,BC, V2C 2T3.
VETERINARY CLINIC
•Sendouttonominatedcandidatesnotifying ination/ alongwithwithdrawalforms(shoul ithdraw)
•Sendoutfinalvotinglisttoo llpaper andenvelopesareavailableformailout
•PostfinalvotingballotonFacebook/BulletinBoardsorother meansofcommunication
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•Coordinateteamtocountballots
•PostresultsonLFNbandoffice,bulletinboard/LFNFacebook
•SendinresulttoIndigenousServiceCanada
•Dealwithanyappealsthatmayarisewithinthetimeframe
Submitproposalstoattention: LyttonFirstNation,band administrator,VickyFordatth mailvicky.ford@lfn.bandor enquiriesat778-254-9887.
Deadline:December30,2024.
Commentswillbe received by WLRS up to February1,2025.WLRS may notbeable to considercomments receivedafterthisdate. Pleasevisitthe Applications,Commentsand Reasons forDecision Database websiteat http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ formore information.
Beadvisedthatany response to this advertisementwillbeconsideredpart ofthepublic record. Access to these records requiresthesubmissionofa FreedomofInformation(FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/ freedomofinformation to learnmore aboutFOIsubmissions.
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PartialListIncludes: LadiesDiamondRingsw/Appraisals,Coins/Bills, SilverBars/Rounds,Antiques & Collectables,Sport/Entertainment Memorabilia,Guitars,RestaurantEquipment/Supplies,
PartialListIncludes: ElectricForklifts,PalletJacks,PackagingMachines, MicroclimateController, LargeCoolers,Large WaterBins,StorageBins & Racks, Welder & PlasmaCutter,TableSaw CompoundMiterSaw DrillPress, Boardroom Table & Chairs,Sofa,Computer TV Fridge,PlusMore!!
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
After winning $100 in the recent Movember contest run by the Herald, Petroczi decided to donate the entire amount to the Nicola Valley Food Bank.
His kind gesture is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact on those who need it the most.
Holiday rush increases driving risk
Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com
With the holiday season in full swing, road safety experts are urging drivers in the Thompson-Nicola region to be extra cautious as they take to the roads.
Last December, nearly 800 crashes were reported per day across British Columbia, a significant increase from other months of the year. The province saw a total of 24,534 crashes in December 2023, with 3,422 of those occurring in the Southern Interior, which includes Kamloops, the Okanagan, and the Kootenays.
Winter driving in B.C. is notoriously challenging, but the added stress of holiday travel can make it even more perilous.
“Rushing to your destination might seem like a way to save time when you’ve got a lot to do, but it greatly increases the risk of a crash,” said Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work. “Driving too fast for the conditions is one of the major contributors to winter crashes.”
The holiday rush in the ThompsonNicola region—an area known for its rapidly changing weather and road conditions—can make driving even more hazardous. The region’s shorter days mean drivers are on the roads during more hours of darkness, which can reduce visibility and increase fatigue. Alcohol and drug use
ThankYou Thank You to ever yonewhoparticipatedinthe 1stAnnual Kids Shopping Fair
MerrittElksLodge#441heldourfirstannual KidsChristmasShoppingEventon December1,2024
Welcoming over150 childreninto ashopping experiencewheretheyshoppedtaggedandwrapped gifts fortheirfamilies.
With over250logged volunteerhours, we wouldliketothankthefollowing:
Localandoutoftown vendors/craters
related to holiday celebrations, along with distractions like phone use, also increase the likelihood of accidents.
“We’re all under pressure during the holidays, and stress can affect our driving decisions,” Acres added. “We want to reach our destination quickly, but that impatience can make us overlook critical safety precautions.”
In addition to the usual winter challenges, an increase in traffic is another factor contributing to a higher crash risk. Whether it’s driving to visit friends and family, doing last-minute shopping, or attending seasonal events, more people are on the road than usual. This, combined with winter weather, can create a dangerous mix.
According to ICBC statistics, December has consistently seen the highest number of crashes over the last five years, and WorkSafeBC data shows that work-related crashes rise by 26 per cent during the winter months.
“We all share the responsibility for making B.C.’s roads safer during the holiday season,” Acres concluded. “Our friends and family want us home to celebrate with them, so let’s make sure we get there safely.”
For more information on safe winter driving, including additional resources and tips, visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca.
Withallofyouthis event wasextremelysuccessful. Manysuggestionstoimprove areinthe worksforan evenbiggerandbetter eventin2005 Seeyounextyear forthe2ndAnnualKidsShopping Fair Merry Christmastoall
Paul Petroczi has proven that generosity is the true spirit of the holidays.