Merritt Herald February 9, 2023

MLA Jackie Tegart discusses the current

with

forestry. —

NVIT Executive Chef Kim Wallace discusses how the culinary program supports local agriculture. STORY /PAGE 18

tain ng a ea w th natua gas BBQ, ho ub and pr vacy screen 12’x16’ heated shop

2022 records second most toxic drug deaths in B.C. history

Opinion --------------------- 6-7

Sports -------------------22-23

Classi eds -----------25-26

In 2022, British Columbia saw its second deadliest year on record since the start of the province’s drug toxicity public health emergency in April 2016. A total of 2,272 people lost their lives due to B.C.’s toxic drug supply during the year, with 11 being in the City of Merritt.

Last year, 70 percent of those dying were aged 30 to 59, and 79 percent of them were male. The province said in a press release that by Local Health Area in 2022, the highest rates were in Vancouver - Centre North, Terrace, Merritt, Hope, and Prince George. Only one of the reported deaths for 2022 in the province was at an overdose prevention site. The province hopes people will utilize these sorts of harm reduction measures following the decriminalization of some drugs in limited quantities on January 31, 2023, for a three year trial.

“British Columbians across the province are continuing to experience tremendous harm and loss as a result of the province’s toxic illicit drug supply,” said Lisa Lapointe, B.C.’s chief coroner.

“Our province continues to lose an average of six lives every day, and many more people experience serious health consequences as a result of the unpre -

dictable, unregulated drug supply. Death due to drug toxicity remains the leading cause of unnatural death in British Columbia, and is second only to cancers in terms of years of life lost.”

More than 11,171 deaths have been attributed to illicit drug toxicity since April 2016. The province said that at this time, analysis of post-mortem toxicology results show no indication that prescribed safe supply is contributing to illicit drug deaths, regionally or provincially. The effect of the decriminalization of certain illicit drugs on toxic drug death numbers is still unknown as B.C. begins its three year trial of a first in the country exemption from Health Canada’s Controlled Drugs and Substances Act

First Nations health officials say that the toxic drug crisis in B.C. is disproportionately affecting Indigenous people in the province, namely First Nations women. Dr. Nel Wieman, acting chief medical officer of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) said in a press conference that while decriminalization is a step in the right direction, more action needs to be taken to address inequities.

“First Nations people continue to be disproportionately impacted by the ongoing toxic drug crisis in British Columbia. Given that we are nearing the end of the seventh year of a prov -

incewide state of emergency on illicit toxic drugs, it is difficult to accept that more First Nations people in B.C. have died from illicit toxic drug poisonings than from COVID-19,” said Wieman.

“While there is no doubt that this tragic outcome is due in part to First Nations people experiencing stereotyping, racism and discrimination in many different forms, it also leads one to consider whether or not this pressing issue is receiving the level of priority it deserves. While we support the government’s recent steps toward decriminalization, it is abundantly clear that there is still much more that can and must be done. The lives of First Nations people in B.C. depend on it!”

The province is hopeful their move to decriminalize is a first step in addressing this issue, in addition to other support around safe supply, overdose prevention sites, and increased treatment options for those struggling with addictions. Due to B.C.’s toxic drug supply, those using drugs are urged by the province to take extra precautions, including getting their drugs tested or identified before using.

A number of social services in the Nicola Valley offer drug testing and identification, a service the province hopes users will utilize as a part of

See 'MERRITT' Page 5

WEATHER

WEATHER

Feb. 9: 50% Wet Snow 5°/-2°C

Feb. 10: Partly Cloudy 6°/-1°C

Feb. 11: Partly Cloudy 5°/-1°C

Feb. 12: Cloudy 6°/-1°C

Feb. 13: 60% Wet Snow 6°/-1°C

Feb. 14: 60% Snow 3°/-5°C

The City of Merritt is searching for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to provide the municipality with dog shelter services.

Search ‘DOG’

The provincial and federal government are providing funding to a number of B.C. ‘agritech’ companies in an effort to support the industry.

Search ‘COOKE’

Nearly 2,300 people died due to toxic drugs in 2022, the seventh year of B.C.’s drug toxicity public health emergency. Photo/Herald File

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Discussing Nicola Valley’s forestry industry

This week, the Herald sat down with MLA Jackie Tegart, who represents the Nicola Valley as part of the province’s Fraser-Nicola riding. Tegart said her office has been busy with calls about the forestry industry, with constituents voicing their concerns.

“There’s a great deal of concern about forestry, and about the lack of support for resource industries as a whole by the government,” Tegart told the Herald.

“We’re hearing mill announcements, it seems, on a regular basis for closures. Forestry has been cyclical for many, many years, but what I’m hearing from people is that they get a sense that their government doesn’t see a future in the industry.”

Recent economic challenges throughout B.C.’s forestry have been felt in the Nicola Valley lately, with Aspen Planers closing their mill for more than five weeks, only reopening last week for a limited run. While the length of the re-opening is up in the air due to what Aspen Planers has said is stalled ‘reconciliation negotiations’ on cutting permits with local First Nations, the mill’s 150 employees are back on the job for now.

The Herald has reached out to Stuwix Resources Joint Venture, a Merritt-based forestry company owned by eight local First Nations, to request an interview on the topic of cutting permits, but has not heard back after leaving a number of messages. The Herald looks to engage a number of stakeholders in local forestry as a part of an ongoing series on the industry and its various local impacts, and will continue to reach out to First Nations and other organizations.

The change from short lay-offs and breakups to deeper industry challenges and permitting issues is one of concern, Tegart noted, adding that a review of the cutting permit process has been advocated for by opposition. She added that while the industry may be in transition, she believes it certainly isn’t going away any time soon.

Tegart noted that she believes the private sector is already working to engage local First Nations to partner on forestry projects and include them in decision making processes, and that along with government consultation of First Nations, a prosperous forestry industry is possible for the foreseeable future.

“I think that if you talk to most forestry companies, they have already taken the steps to very much become partners with First Nations in their areas,” added Tegart.

“Government as a whole has very much recognized First Nations as partners in planning and in actually cutting and processing of wood. I think that we need

See 'TEGART' Page 9

Merritt records 11 toxic drug deaths in 2022

From Page 3

harm reduction efforts. The Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society’s Merritt Shelter on Voght Street offers take-home

fentanyl test strips, as well as on site test strips.

Ask Wellness’s downtown office on Quilchena Avenue uses

Fourier Transform Infrared

Spectroscopy (FTIR) to test drugs for their contents. Testing is available on site on select days, but samples can be dropped off to be mailed for testing.

For harm reduction information, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control’s (BCCDC) website at www.towardtheheart.com.

MLA Jackie Tegart. Photo/Herald File

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Some tips for V-Day

Next Tuesday is February 14, the big day of hearts. Romance is in the air, some will celebrate their first ones with their significant other, while others will spend their 20th. Regardless of count, it is a very great opportunity to celebrate your partner.

It is really easy to let Valentine’s Day get away from you if you don’t have anything prepared. It isn’t like Christmas where there’s a lead up to the big day, you don’t get a day off from work or school so, decorations and greetings aside, it would probably seem like just an ordinary day. Thus, it is up to you to ensure that you are able to remember to do something special that day for your partner.

I have a few tips I would like to share with you that may prove to be useful as we are under a week away:

• Both grand and small gestures are equally appreciated. What’s important is your enthusiasm for doing it.

• Make sure to include food in your planned day or night. Everyone is happier after being fed.

• Take pictures. If not for the sentimental value, then for reference so you won’t become repetitive next year.

Valentine’s day is such a wonderful time. Sure, we can celebrate love any time of the year, but I believe having a day dedicated to it can bring out the romantic in us that our partners are sure to appreciate.

Herald Junior Reporters

Hosting a Grade 8 basketball tournament

From the Herald archives: February, 1986

Basketball is very popular in Merritt this year and last weekend the Grade 8 girls and boys hosted the ‘Eagles Perch Invitational’. The boys tournament consisted of 12 teams and the girls six teams.

The Merritt Grade 8 girls team made Merritt Secondary School proud by winning

second place in the tournament. The Grade 8s do not have much experience playing basketball as the rules for elementary school are adjusted for younger kids. This is a whole new challenge for them and to come second with a small team is a huge success.

“All season we have battled with roster shortages, but they refuse to give up. They are learning, growing, and developing confidence” said Grade 8 girls coach Cass Dekker.

The Merritt girls played a total

of three games, winning two and losing one. The girls beat Brock Secondary 27-8 as the opening game on Friday.

MSS fought extremely hard against Barriere for their second game Friday winning 33-32. Their final game on Saturday was the championship game. The girls fell short to South Kamloops 38-7.

The team played very well this weekend, “I am so proud of these young ladies. We were missing an impactful member of our team

this weekend, but they dug deep and earned their way to the championship game” said Coach Dekker.

While the girls were playing there were also boys games. The boys half of the tournament consisted of

12 teams, two of them being Merritt teams. Boys basketball in Merritt has more interest than girls, so the Grade 8 boys had to split into two teams. Team number one finished tenth in the tournament winning one

of three games. Team one had a huge win against Revelstoke winning 68-14.

Merritt team number two took one out of three games beating Revelstoke on Saturday 28-24, finishing in 11th

place.

All the teams had an amazing weekend and represented the school well. “I hope young athletes watching this weekend were inspired to play this beautiful sport,” said Dekker.

Auer: ‘Fifteen years in Canada and grateful to be here’

the challenges we’ve faced in the last 15 years and especially through the recent years of the pandemic I’m grateful for just how free we are here and how good we have it.

My family and I recently celebrated 15 years of immigrating to Canada. More than anything else, I’m grateful. Through all

Do I complain about the government or use German swear words in full force when I pay my taxes?

Do I hold my breath when our ER closes

again and hope there won’t be a medical emergency? Of course I do, but my gratitude outweighs that every time. Because I get to speak up and complain, something that people get killed for in other places. Because the fact that I’m paying taxes means I made money and can support my family. Because having access to healthcare

is a privilege and the people who provide it are human too.

I’ve lived in several countries and there is no perfect system. There is always something to complain about, but until you consider what it would be like to live in other places (and pay 15% of your income for healthcare like we did in Germany) you really

don’t know just how good you have it here. It’s easy to get swept up in negativity and drain your life energy by complaining and being angry all the time.

Here’s a challenge for you: pick three things you really care about and don’t get worked up about anything else. Become an advocate for those things rather than an

PASSING ROAD

REFERENDUM

Merritt City Council last night passed a motion to draft a bylaw giving Council authority to proceed with a Spring referendum for upgrading of truck routes in the City. The referendum will ask voters to approve of the borrowing of about $300,000 to $400,000 to upgrade a number of roads which have suffered damage.

LETTERS POLICY

adversary to everything. Advocate for positive change and think about how you can make our community a better place. Because here, you don’t need permission and you have the choice to do anything you want with your one precious life. If you choose finding solutions over perpetuating problems, we all win.

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

Rae Bassett MSS

The closing ceremonies after the championship game. Photo/Angela Russell

Merritt receives ood mitigation funding

Izaiah Reyes

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

New funding has been announced to help Merritt become more resilient in the face of future natural disasters.

The Province of B.C. just announced that the city will receive a $2 million fund to begin work on diking along the Coldwater River.

“This is a very good start,” said Mayor Mike Goetz. “This is the first money the new municipal government received from the province for flood mitigation.”

The new provincial grant is part of the $23.4 million from the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). The funding aims to help communities to better prepare for, mitigate and respond to climate-related emergencies, such as floods and extreme temperatures.

“The climate crisis will continue to increase the risk of natural disasters in British Columbia over the years ahead. Local governments and First Nations are important partners in ensuring that communities are prepared for what will come and we’re taking action to support them in this critical work,“ said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.

“The projects enabled by this funding will make a big difference for First Nations and communities throughout B.C. in their efforts to keep lives and livelihoods safe from potential disasters.”

Ma visited the Nicola Valley two days before the new funding was announced.

“We walked her through everything and showed her all of the damage,” said Goetz. “We had an application for quite

a while on this and now they’ve decided to move in with their $2 million funding. I’m very excited that we’re going to start to see these dikes get repaired, and so is the council.”

The Disaster Risk Reduction –Climate Adaptation stream under the CEPF supports the Province’s Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy. This stream from the CEPF is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) and funds projects that strengthen the resilience of First Nations and local governments in responding to and preparing for natural disasters and climate change.

Along with the dike repairs in Merritt, other projects funded by the stream include:

• designing upgrades for the Chilliwack Creek drainage pump station, which serves as a crucial component of the community’s flood-protection system

• a climate and disaster risk assessment for T’lat’lasik’wala First Nations

• misting stations to keep people cool during extreme heat in Victoria

• dike-breach modelling in Squamish.

Goetz noted that Merritt will continue submitting applications for funding with the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund. The city is looking to ask upwards of $165 million in federal funding to completely repair both the Coldwater and Nicola river dikes.

“I’m very appreciative to the province for giving us this money to start the project,” he said. “It’ll be a great thing to see this repair go underway.”

Mayor Mike Goetz estimates that it will take upwards of $165 million in funding to repair both the Coldwater and Nicola River dikes. Photo/Herald File

TEGART: “We need to ensure stewardship”

From Page 5

to work in partnership, we need to ensure that stewardship and biodiversity is part of planning to ensure a sustainable industry.”

The Herald reached out to the Ministry of Forests to request an interview with Minister Bruce Ralston on the topic of possible negotiations with local First Nations and the impact of forestry on smaller locales, to which Ministry staff responded with a statement.

“The Ministry of Forests values the contribution of forestry to the regional

economy of the Nicola Valley and the people who live and work there,” said the Ministry of Forests in a statement.

“The Province is working with the local communities and First Nations to design a collaborative and principled approach to issuing cutting permits that addresses stewardship concerns.”

Tegart added that she believes the government is treating forestry as a sunset industry, despite its future potential in the province. With the industry undoubtedly in transition, its future in the Nicola Valley remains uncertain.

Access to logs and fibre has been an issue across the province in recent months, with a number of mills announcing closures and curtailments.

Photo/Herald File

Bass Coast announces ‘ rst wave’ of 2023 festival lineup

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Despite the cancellation of a number of B.C. festivals in 2023 due to economic challenges, including Merritt’s Rockin’ River Country Music Festival, another Nicola Valley music festival is moving ahead full force. Bass Coast, an electronic music festival that moved to Merritt almost ten years ago, has released the ‘first wave’ of its lineup for this year’s event.

While the festival has only called Merritt home since 2013, it is entering its 15th year in 2023. The artist-owned and operated boutique festival features electronic music, art installations, and a number of vendors. Capacity at the festival is limited to 6500, which organizers say creates a unique experience.

“Each of the artists in this first wave has made a unique contribution to the evolution of electronic music,” said Bass Coast Co-founder and Musical Director Andrea Graham.

“We curate our lineups with the sounds of tomorrow in mind, always striving to balance familiarity with innovation.”

Attendees at the 2023 Bass Coast festival can expect to see the following performing artists as part of the :

• CloZee

• Christian Löffler

• Move D

• Delano Smith

• Marcellus Pittman & Justin Martin

• Sicaria & Hamdi

• Nicola Cruz

• Special Request

• Galcher Lustwerk

• The Funk Hunters

The full first wave lineup, along with other festival information, can be found online at www.basscoast.ca.

Along with these artists, Bass Coast will continue to announce performers leading up to the July festival dates. The festival will also feature large scale and interactive art installations, workshops, yoga, and more. Bass Coast said in a press release that the show couldn’t go on without the support of the community.

“We are incredibly appreciative of the dedicated and creative Bass Coast community,” said Liz Thomson, Bass Coast co-founder and art director.

“It’s because of you that Bass Coast continues to thrive amidst post pandemic challenges facing the festival industry.”

Valentine’s

Chef Don’s Braised Beef Short Ribs

Call for Reservations 250-378-4618 Try one of our Signature Cocktails included in the price! ❦❤❦❤❦❤❦❤❦❤❦❤❦❤❦❤❦❤ ❦ ❤ ❦ ❤ ❦ ❤ ❦ ❤ ❦ ❤ ❦Your Hometown Hospitality Specialists

• The Librarian (festival co-founder Andrea Graham)

Bass Coast will take place at the Merritt Festival Ground from July 7-10, 2023. Marius Auer/ Herald

• Full-time Kindergarten – must be 5 yrs by Dec 31, 2023

• Bus Services provided to all areas of Merritt

HEAD START SERVICES:

• 3 & 4 year old Program (K4 must be 4 yrs old by Dec 31, 2023)

• Home Visiting Program

• Transportation provided for all Head Start program

• Mom’s & Tot’s Services 0 to 6 years old

CURRICULUM:

• New BC Curriculum

• Nle?kepmx

• Cultural Studies

• Field Trips

• Learning Assistance Program

• School supplies provided

• SKATING/HOCKEY PROGRAM

• Joyful Literacy

FACILITIES:

• Full-Size Gymnasium

• Library

• Baseball/Soccer Field

Lower Nicola Band School

MSS students win the Canadian Legion’s regional Remembrance Day competition

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Young talent shines at Merritt Secondary School (MSS), as two students won the Royal Canadian Legion’s regional essay and poster making competition.

This past January, it was announced that Grade 11 Meagan Voigt and Grade 10 Ariana Hostrwser won the essay writing and poster making categories respectively. This is an annual competition in commemoration of Remembrance Day.

Every year, around the Remembrance Day period, students at MSS participate in this competition.

“I give it to them almost as an optional assignment,” MSS teacher Dave Finch explained. “The ones that participate are really committed in putting in good work so I’m really impressed by them.”

Both Voigt and Hostrwser joined this year’s contest with no prior thought about the concept of their work.

“I didn’t really had any specific idea in mind,” said Hostrwser. “I just looked for reference photos on what I wanted to do and it fell into place like puzzle pieces.”

“I was the same as Ariana. Initially, I had no idea what to write about,” said Voigt. “I thought of the poppy that I wore and what it means to me when I think of Remembrance Day.”

The initial scope of the contest was only open to schools within the area of

a Legion branch. In the case of Branch 96, the competition was only among high school students in Merritt Secondary. There were 30 entries for both categories combined and the best one for each moved on to regionals.

By December, it was announced that Voigt and Hostrwser had been selected to represent the local branch in the regional competition. A few weeks into January, both Voigt and Hostrwser were called to the administrative office. It was then when they learned that they’ve won in the regional competition.

“I was pretty excited because I never really had my art presented that way,” said Hostrwser.

“I was pretty excited too,” added Voigt. “I never really thought of myself much of a writer, but winning that made me think that maybe I am.”

The regional competition had a bigger scope, Merritt students competed with peers in places such as Kamloops, Cache Creek, Ashcroft, Chase, and Clearwater. The BC/Yukon competition is the next level after regionals. If successful there, the girls’ work will be submitted to compete at the national level.

“The school community and the local Legion branch are definitely proud of their achievements,” said Finch. “We’ve had one student go up to the Yukon level, and now having two is really awesome.”

FREE Physical Literac y Program

Ages 4 t o 6

Drop -in sessions follow the school calendar and run Mondays from 3 :30 to 4:15 pm at the Merrit Civic Centre

Each ses sion is centered around a children’s s tor y book followed by physic al ac tivities based on the s tor yline Ac tivities encourage the development of movement sk ills , improvisation , creativit y and early literacy sk ills .

For more information email: literacymerrit t@gmail.com

Ariana Hostrwser and Meagan Voigt after winning the regional competition.

Photo/MSS

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 96 received a plaque this past January honouring late veteran William Dunnigan. Photo/Arlene Johnston

ANTI-BULLYING Campaign 2023 PINK SHIRT DAY in recognition of

The potential links between BULLYING & VIOLENCE

The Columbine High School massacre that took place on April 20, 1999, which resulted in the deaths of 12 students and one teacher, was, at the time, the deadliest school shooting in United States history.

The Columbine massacre was perpetrated by students Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, and an investigation of the shooting suggested that bullying may have contributed to the shooters’ decision to open fire on their classmates and teachers. In his journal, Harris illustrated reasons for his desire to kill, and “revenge from being teased” was among them. However, Harris also wanted to see himself as “the law,”

according to his writings, indicating that he may have been an aggressor at some point as well. While one cannot always connect bullying and extreme violence, a correlation can sometimes be made. Bullying is a growing concern in schools, and research into possible connections between bullying and other forms of youth violence is ongoing. A recent study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence indicates that bullying and other healthrisk behaviors can happen together (i.e. substance use, violence and school failure), and more education is needed to address the broad range of youth problems in

schools.

According to Dorothy Espelage, a professor of psychology at the University of Florida, bullies have a “continuum of perpetration.” Espelage says that the aggression that can result from bullying, even years later, can be problematic.

Nadine Connell, director of the Center for Crime and Justice Studies at the University of Texas at Dallas, says that bullying can continue into patterns of adulthood that can be dangerous. Experts warn that children who engage in high rates of bullying in childhood and adolescence can later become more skilled in aggression.

Chronically victimized people may develop major depressive disorders or generalized anxiety disorders as a result of being bullied year after year. The organization StopBullying.gov reports that a very small number of bullied children might retaliate through extremely violent measures. Shooters had a history of being bullied in 12 out of 15 school shooting cases in the 1990s. Bullying is a problematic issue that has ties to violence, both for bullies and their victims. Schools, parents and even government agencies are trying to find new ways to address bullying and reduce its frequency and impact.

C s S y

WHAT IS BULLYING?

Bullying is a form of aggression where there is a power imbalance; the person doing the bullying has power over the person being victimized. In additional to any physical trauma incurred, bullying can result in serious emotional problems, including anxiety, low selfesteem, or depression.

TYPES OF BULLYING

• Physical bullying: using physical force or aggression against another person (e.g., hitting)

• Verbal bullying: using words to verbally attack

someone (e.g., namecalling)

• Social/relational bullying: trying to hurt someone through excluding them, spreading rumours or ignoring them (e.g., gossiping)

• Cyberbullying: using electronic media to threaten, embarrass, intimidate, or exclude someone, or to damage their reputation (e.g., sending threatening text messages).

BULLYING VS HARASSMENT

Bullying and harassment are similar, yet different: Harassment is similar to bullying because someone

through cruel, offensive and insulting behaviours. Harassment is different from bullying in that it is a form of discrimination.

WHAT IS DISCRIMINATION?

Discrimination is treating someone differently or poorly based on certain characteristics or differences. Bullying turns into harassment when the behaviour goes against Canada’s Human Rights Laws and focuses on treating people differently because of:

• Ethnicity (culture, where they live, how they live,

• Race (skin colour, facial features)

• Religion (religious beliefs)

• Sexual orientation (if they are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or heterosexual)

• Family status (if they are from a single parent family, adopted family, step family, foster family, non-biological gay or lesbian parent family)

• Marital status (if they are single, legally married, common-law spouse, widowed, or divorced)

• Physical and mental disability (if they have a mental illness, learning disability, use a wheelchair)

Signs children might be victims of bullying

Despite the best efforts of educators and parents, bullying is a problem at many schools. According to StopBullying.gov, an official website of the United States government, as many as one in three American students say they have been bullied at school. And the problem is not exclusive to the United States, as the Canadian Institutes of Health Research report that at least one in three adolescent students in Canada report being recent victims of bullying.

Bullied students often suffer in silence. As a result, the onus is on parents to learn the signs that a child is a victim of bullying. Such signs are not always easy to recognize, as StopBullying.gov notes that the most common types of bullying are verbal and social. Physical bullying happens less often, so kids who are being bullied may not exhibit physical symptoms like bruises or unexplained injuries, which are common indicators of physical bullying.

By learning the common signs of bullying, parents are in better position to recognize when their children are being bullied, whether that bullying is physical, social or verbal.

Signs of bullying

There are many signs of bullying and kids may not exhibit them all. In fact, StopBullying.gov notes that some bullied children exhibit no warning signs. So in addition to learning these signs of bullying, parents can make a concerted effort to communicate with their children every day, asking youngsters about how their day went and if they encountered anything that adversely affected their mood.

• Unexplainable injuries

• Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry

• Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick or faking illness

• Changes in eating habits, like suddenly skipping meals or binge eating. Kids may come home from school hungry because they did not eat lunch.

• Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares

• Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not

wanting to go to school

• Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations

• Feelings of helplessness or decreased self-esteem

• Self-destructive behaviors, such as running away from home, harming themselves, or talking about suicide

Parents are urged to report any concerns about bullying to educators immediately, as research indicates bullying can lead to or worsen feelings of isolation, rejection, exclusion, and despair. Bullying also can lead to or worsen feelings of depression and anxiety, which can contribute to suicidal behavior.

Learn more about bullying and how to combat it at www. StopBullying.gov.

CANADA’S AGRICULTURE DAY

Thank You

4-H club enriches member experience with hands off approach

A local youth group looks to foster confidence, self-esteem, and positive self identity among its members with a good mix of practical experience and good old-

fashioned fun. The local chapter of 4-H may be rooted in agriculture, but the club offers positive and rewarding experiences for young people of all backgrounds. 4-H in the Nicola Valley has a membership base of 20 youth aged six and up who participate in educational pursuits and service projects to explore a number of topics including agriculture and photography.

Club members meet on a monthly basis for business meetings, where attendees discuss their respective project areas and other topics pertaining to club operations.

4-H in the Nicola Valley has four separate project areas that members can specialize in; beef, poultry, rabbits, photography, and cloverbud, for members 8 and under. While those 9 and up work to care for their animals and further their knowledge of animal husbandry, cloverbud members work on scrapbook projects relating to topics in agriculture.

Group leadership told the Herald that 4-H is not only youth-centred, it’s also youth-driven.

“One of the most wonderful things about the program is because the motto is ‘learn to do by doing,’ and it’s all youthcentred, the adults take a very hands-off

approach,” said Erica Martindale, general leader for 4-H in the Nicola Valley.

“We make sure the kids are safe, and we give them the skills, knowledge, and tools to be successful, but everything is member focused. They lead the meetings, they are the ones that raise their livestock, they’re the ones that are out there every night doing chores, and they’re the ones completing their record books.”

Members of the local 4-H club will not only have their larger annual project to work on, but the opportunity to learn more about a number of topics, such as daily animal care, selling animals at market, and other non-agriculture topics like photography.

Martindale said the group puts an

See ‘LOCAL’ Page 17

to Merritt farmers and producers who help feed our families and support our local economy

A group of 4-H club members gathered for a special activity at Merritt’s Rotary Park last year.

Photo/4H Nicola Valley

4-H club members gets up close with local cattle.

Photo/4H Nicola Valley

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Local club promotes agriculture and photography to youth

From Page 16

emphasis on developing key life skills in young people, including communication and public speaking abilities. Club members participate in a communication event every March, where they must present a speech or demonstration on their project area. She said the practice has positive impacts on young people’s memorization skills, stage presence, and word projection. No matter the topic, foundational skills are being built.

“We have so many youth that come from agricultural families, and it gives them an opportunity to ‘learn to do by doing,’within agriculture,” noted

Martindale.

“The other nice thing about our program is that we are not just kids who were raised in agriculture, we also have nonagricultural projects. Kids who live in town can still participate, and are still actively engaged in our club. It’s a nice way to kind of bring everyone together.”

Moving forward, 4-H in the Nicola Valley looks to invite more members to join its ranks, and promote the importance of agriculture in Merritt and the surrounding area. For more information on the club, email gh4hclub@ gmail.com, or visit www.facebook.com/ GrasslandHomesteaders4HClub/.

Suppor ting Local uppor

The City of Merritt, Mayor and Council are proud of our local agricultural community and support enhancing local food security

4-H Club’s new reporter

Vaccination helps illness and hospitalizati for children’s immune vaccines deliver the adult dose. They tested and fe

accination prevent ser us illness and hospitalization. Designed systems, pediatric vaccines a smaller dose than dose. are safe.

4-H club group bike ride. Photo/4H Nicola Valley

Dr. Danièle Behn Deputy Provincial Indigenous He

The benefits of COVID-19 vaccination outweigh the risks. That ’s why my children are va inated

“

Dr. Behn Smith Provinci Officer, Health

s my children vaccinated.”

NVIT sources local products for their culinary program

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Last year, the Province of B.C. announced the expansion of the their Feed BC program to include 11 more institutes to their initial nine established ones back in 2021. Feed BC is a program by the province committed to growing B.C.’s local food industry. Among the slew of institutes that were registered to the program was Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT). NVIT’s current culinary program

offering sources local food ingredients for their student work. The Herald had the chance to speak with Executive Chef Kim Wallace of NVIT to learn more about how they incorporate local suppliers to their culinary education program.

“It’s a program that we’ve just implemented,” said Wallace. “It started with the Chef that I took over for. We support local products, and by that I mean we try our best to serve from ‘farm to fork’.”

Wallace took hold of NVIT’s culi -

nary program at the beginning of the fall semester in 2021. Since then he has been employing the service of different farmers and butchers from the Nicola Valley.

“I’m 100 percent satisfied with everything, especially the relationships that we at NVIT are making,” said Wallace. “It’s great to get into the community. When it comes to B.C., we have such a broad range of resources, products, and local farmers that it is really fantastic to have so much sources to choose from.”

For greenery NVIT sources their needs from Lower Nicola’s Shulus Gardens. The culinary program acquires vegetables, herbs, and even honey from the garden. Culinary students not only get a chance to utilize produce from the garden but even grow it themselves.

“The solarium adjacent to our PC1 lab kitchen is used for us to grow herbs, micro greens, and vegetables,” he said. “Shulus Gardens brings in plants that we maintain through the winter months.”

When it comes to meats, the program collaborates with Kuiper Ranch. NVIT works with Paul Belt and the ranch to ‘meat’ all of their needs.

“We work with them to source local meat products,” said Wallace. “Three weeks ago, before the students’ break,

Story continues on Page 20

PC1 students picking greenery at the NVIT solarium.

Photo/Kim Wallace

PC1 class for the 2022 fall semester.

Photo/Kim Wallace

From Page 18

we purchased a side of beef and we went to a local butcher, utilizing their services as well.”

Wallace explained that local butcher Greg Gould, has been a person that NVIT has collaborated with as he has machinery for

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

meat cutting not presently available on campus.

“We outsource locally to his place and got our meat divided into primary cuts and secondary cuts.”

Wallace also notes that he gets products from Gordon Food Service, which also provides products that are local to B.C.

Feed B.C. works retroactively and Wallace explains that based on the figure he sends in, B.C. will decide on the amount of funding they will award NVIT with. NVIT’s purchases from March of last year, all the way to April of this year will be calculated.

“We’re still

working on the amount and will be taking the cafeteria costs into account, so it’s a work in progress.”

As presently constructed, the culinary program only offers Professional Cooking Level 1 (PC1) to students. PC2 program is currently being prepared to launch in April,

with the hopes of forming a PC3 course afterwards. The expansion of the program will increase its need for local products, helping the Feed B.C. initiative even further.

“This is a first for NVIT,” said Wallace. “We will have the time in the warmer months to get into Shulus Garden

and work directly in the garden in obtaining local produce.”

Cents fall short against the Wenatchee Wild

the ensuing power play. The Cents then garnered a cross-checking penalty with 30 seconds left in the period.

The Merritt Centennials came up short in their lone effort this week, losing 4-3 in a tight game against the visitors from south of the border, Washington’s Wenatchee Wild. With only 15 games remaining in the season following the loss, the team’s playoff chances are looking grim.

The Cents hosted the Wild at the Nicola Valley memorial arena, in front of a crowd of 450 excited fans, all eager for a win on home ice. Johnny Hicks started in net for Merritt, with Wenatchee electing to start #30 Owen Millward. The first period was off to a flying start for the Cents who scored first just three minutes in. Ryan Spinale snagged his sixth point of the season by finding the twine behind Millward. The next few minutes were back and forth, including a Cents powerplay that saw no points scored, along with a period of 4 on 4 that saw a Wenatchee goal by Luke Weilandt to make the score 1-1. Moments later, Arvega Hovsepyan with the Wild garnered a high-sticking penalty, but the Cents were unable to capitalize on

At the start of the second period, the Wild were immediately able to use their man advantage by scoring against Hicks to make it a 2-1 game. The Cents replied to tie it up just a minute later with a goal by #7 Carter Schmidt, assisted by #16 Ryan Spinale. The next 10 minutes of the peri-

od were taken up by strong defensive play on both sides of the ice. Mark Thurston would then put the Cents back in the lead with a goal at the 14:04 mark for a score of 3-2. After the ensuing faceoff, Cents Captain Christian Lowe garnered a cross-checking penalty, leading to a goal by Jason Stefanek to make the game tied once again at 3-3. The remaining time in the period saw just one penalty against the

Cents’ Jackson Murphy-Johnson for slashing, but no scoring took place.

The third period was a fresh start for both teams at a 3-3 score. With the game on the line, the Cents and the Wild both played hard to try and put their team in the lead. The defense was strong throughout the period, with no goals being let in until the 14:36 mark, when Weilandt and Stefanek struck again for a goal on Hicks. This would lead to the eventual final score of 4-3, with the remainder of the period remaining free of action besides a handful of penalties. Merritt’s #1, Johnny Hicks, saved 49/53 in the losing effort.

The Cents now hold a 10–24–3–2 record, and hold the bottom spot in the league’s Interior division. With 15 games left in the BCHL’s regular season, the team is 12 points behind the Trail Smoke Eaters, who currently occupy the bottom playoff spot.

Next weekend, the boys from Merritt head to Prince George for two games against the Spruce Kings. Puck drop for both games is scheduled for 7:00pm. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.merrittcentennials.com.

Merritt man volunteers at the 2023 Scotties Tournament of Hearts

the late Canadian curling legend Sandra Schmirler.

in 2018.”

With one of Canada’s biggest curling events of the year taking place in Kamloops, one Merrittonian will volunteer his time and efforts in ensuring the event becomes a success.

Local resident Jim Madill will once again lend his helping hand to volunteer at this year’s Scotties Tournament of Hearts, set to take place in Kamloops from February 17 to February 26.

Madill is a long time resident of Merritt but even a longer participant in Canadian curling, both as a competitor and volunteer.

Born in Calgary, Alberta, Madill started out his curling journey as a young man competing in a team with his mother. As a fan, Madill, looked up to

“We saw her during intermission at the World Curling Championships in Kamloops back in 1998,” he recalled. “She came over to our section and she kept looking at us. Somebody had told her who we were, that was a really awesome experience.”

Inspired by Schmirler, Madill began volunteering at curling events. He first volunteered as a security guard for the Strauss Canada Cup in Kamloops back in 2005. Since then, the curling enthusiast has gone to different curling arenas across the country, volunteering at the different competitions.

“I was mainly a volunteer driver for curling events,” said Madill. “I drove the various teams during events. One time, I drove for Jennifer Jones’ team in Penticton

It was around this period when Madill would gain one of his proudest achievements. The Sandra Schmirler Foundation had awarded the volunteer driver with a commemorative coin in honour of his years of service to the curling community.

“JoAnne Viau and three of Schmirler’s past teammates presented me this coin,” Madill said. “They gave this to me for all the work I’ve done with Curling Canada.

Though the driving job is demanding and requires him to be out of town for weeks at a time, Madill does not feel burdened by volunteering. In fact, he feels it is his duty to do his best driving the most talented curlers in the country and the world.

“Volunteering is my way of remembering Sandra and this inspires me to keep going.”

Madill will be volunteering for the

Scotties in Kamloops this month, later in the year he will head to Ontario to volunteer for the Brier Cup, and next year he will head to Calgary for the Scotties 2024.

Jim Madill holds his prized Sandra Schmirler coin. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

The puck drops at the Cents’ Friday night game against the visiting Wenatchee Wild. Marius Auer/Herald

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

NVSC competes at the Okanagan Regionals

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Nicola Valley Skate Club (NVSC) headed down Vernon on the weekend of January 28 for the Okanagan Regional Championships.

Seven skaters from the club attended the regionals to compete against 15 other clubs throughout the region. The 500 total competitors were made up of skaters from across the province, including Kamloops, Kelowna, Oliver, Clearwater, Revelstoke, Valemount, and Golden.

“All had personal bests in their events,”

said Coach Diana Lorenz.

“Competing against clubs from all over our region was such a great experience for our young athletes.”

A very tight competition was held at the regionals, with two NVSC skaters only .20 behind third place. The following are the results for NVSC:

- Olivia Boone

STAR 1GOLD

- Avery Starrs

STAR 2Silver, Silver Performance

- Meera Dutt STAR 2 - Silver, Gold performance

- Aziza Earle

STAR 2Bronze, Gold

performance - Brooklyn GustafsonBronze

- Jayda Starrs

STAR 4 13 & O - 4th place

with Personal Best

- Abby Thoms

STAR 5 13 & O - 4th place with Personal Best

Breaking scoring records

NVSC now turn their sights on the Super Series Final in Kelowna, happening on March 10-12.

Adopt a Pet

View your fe ature be st friend @ www.angelsan imalrescue .ca

Donations can be to made to The Angel’sAnimal Rescue Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. We are aRegistered Charity -847488269RR0001.

See 'PANTHERS' ONLINE

During the 2023 Eagle’s Perch Tournament, senior guard Nathan Willey had back to back 50 point games to break the all time scoring record in MSS history. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Seven skaters from the Nicola Valley Skate Club headed down to Vernon for the regionals. Photo/Diana Lorenz

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

Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club hosts annual ice shing derby at Stump Lake

was big enough to win some consolation prizes, as first place was out of the question in their minds.

“I thought because others had such large fish that I probably wouldn’t get first place,” said Weston Larose, who was greatly surprised that his fish, weighing in at 5 lbs., won first place.

“I could not believe it. They had all those other guys so I really couldn’t believe that I won first place.”

The Larose brothers from Maple Ridge are young fishing enthusiasts who decided to join an ice fishing derby at Stump Lake. Hoping to compete for the top prize the brothers had high hopes of reeling in a very big catch. Unfortunately what they caught was unimpressive by their standards but surprisingly, their catches were big enough for them to both place in the top three of the event.

On Sunday, January 29, the Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club hosted their annual ice fishing derby. The event was hosted at Stump Lake for the first time ever.

“The turnout exceeded our expectations,” said Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club President BJ Moore.

“It was our first time at this lake so we had no idea how many people would attend. Even though it was cold, we had twice as

many entries as we did on the previous lake we were at.”

There were 313 people who signed up for the derby. People from Armstrong, the Okanagan, and the Lower Mainland all attended in the hopes of winning the event. Among the contestants were brothers Carson and Weston Larose from Maple Ridge.

Carson, 13, and Weston 9, both were taught by their father Ryan how to fish at a very young age.

“We go up every year to ice fish up at Stump Lake,” said Ryan.

“This time my uncle said ‘why don’t you guys join the derby coming up?’ so we did.”

The boys had high hopes for a big catch as Stump Lake was known for their large rainbow trouts. Early on, Carson Larose caught a trout that the family believed wasn’t anything to write home about. By noon, the younger Weston caught a similar sized trout to his brother.

With the deadline for the competition at 2 p.m., the boys decided to hand in their catches for judging, hoping that it

To the family’s surprise the older Larose tied for second place, with his trout registering 4 lbs. 15 oz. Officially he was awarded third place as he came to weigh in his catch later than the second place winner.

“To win with the amount of people that were there was unbelievable,” said Ryan Larose. “I fish a lot, and I’ve been teaching them since they were really young. We do everything, from salmon fishing on the island to sturgeon fishing in the Fraser. That’s

all these kids want to do, to fish at any time of the year.”

As their prize, Weston received $1000 for his first place catch while Carson got $250 from his. The Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club thanks all the sponsors as well as the volunteers who made this event possible.

With a successful event this year, the club plans to return to Stump

Lake for next year’s derby. The next event hosted by the club this year will be their annual Fathers Day fishing in

June. Please visit Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club’s official Facebook page for more updates.

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WEL COME YOU

Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Ser vice Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre)

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

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

in St Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899

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

Sacred Hear t Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772

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

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Ser vice Time ever y Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC)

1755 Coldwater Ave ( The Cadet Hall)

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

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Max well St • 250-378-9502

Ser vice Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m

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

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

CLASSIFIEDS

Jessie Craigen

February

Dr. Daniel Craigen

January 21, 2023

The

With deep sadness we wish to announce the recent passing of Daniel (Dan) Craigen of Kelowna, British Columbia Dan was predeceased by his parents Harry and Helen (Blake) and his first true love and wife Jessie (Hollis), with whom he was married for 50-years He is survived by his sister Mary, son Dan (Elizabeth pr deceased) of Ottawa, Ontario, and daughters Gillian R (Steve) of Merritt, B.C., and Fiona Marren of Vancouver, B.C.; seven grandchildren, Ailsa (Greg), Cailin, Derek, Jennifer (Wayne), Dominique, Keegan and Kyna; and two great-grandchildren Colbie and Zoe Furthermore, he is survived by his second loving wife, of 17-years, Sheila (Summerfield)

Dan was born in Glasgow, Scotland on September 2, 1927, and was known for his hard work ethic He entered Glasgow University and, in 1952, received a medical and surgery degree; and in 1956 a Diploma in Psychological Medicine In 1963 he became a member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan. In 1973 he was elected to the British Royal College of Psychiatrists During his tenure at Glasgow University, he met Jessie in 1948 and they were married in 1952. Dan (junior) was born in 1953 (Leamington Spa, England) and subsequently Dan embarked on a 10-year career with the British Army Initial deployments were within the U.K and Germany (where both daughters were born - British bases in Hanover and Mönchengladbach) For the last two years of his army career, Dan (and family) was posted to Singapore, Malaysia, where he played a leading role in the British Army’s far east medical posture

Vicki Perog

January 20, 2023

Mrs. Vicki Perog passed away peacefully at the Nicola Valley Hospital on January 30, 2023.

Vicki was born in Penticton, spent her childhood in Quesnel and moved to Prince George to start her family

In the mid-70s, Vicki moved to Kelowna, where she had many friends. She enjoyed swimming, curling, golf and just sitting in the sunshine, enjoying a beverage with her friends,

In 1989 she moved to Merritt to be closer to her family and there she met her husband Jerry Perog,

Vicki never met an animal she didn’t love and delight in spoiling rotten.

Vicki loved to laugh and enjoyed nothing better than sharing amusing anecdotes from her past.

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Some needs of mourning: accept the reality of death – let yourself feel the pain of loss –remember the person who died – develop a new identity – expect all kinds of feelings

P: 250-280-1701

www.merritthospice.org

Email: merr tthospice@shaw ca

Vicki had a huge heart and her kitchen table was always open to anyone who needed to talk about their day, vent about an injustice, shed a tear, celebrate a milestone or just laugh until your sides hurt Vicki finished her working career in Merritt and was loved and respected by her co-workers.

She spent her final years doting on her dog Sassy and visiting with friends and family and sitting on her deck enjoying the beauty of the world around her,

Vicki was predeceased by her parents Frank and Velma Burns and her sisters Fran Holtz and Lynne Clark.

She is survived by her husband Jerry Perog and her daughter Allison McIndoe (Dayna Acker) her brother and sister in law Jim and Jean Perog, brother and sister law Vaughn and Diane McIndoe, sister in law Doreen Chamberlin, step daughter Charene Perog, step grandson Brendon Chow and her nephews and nieces Tim (Kristina) Holtz, Heide (Ray Prince) Holtz, Kim (Lloyd) Agar, Donalda Holtz, Justin (Mika) Biller and Charmaine (Raymond) McCommick

Vicki will be deeply missed by her special friends Cindy Letendre, Delilah (Steven) Dick, Cindy Kruse, Cheryl Seaman, Raquel Ballard, Lynne Ray, Bonnie Cowan and Sheri Smith.

She will also be missed by the many people whose lives she touched over the years.

A celebration of Vicki’s life will be taking place at a later date.

On returning to the U.K in 1963, Dan and Jessie, both who loved to travel, moved to Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, where he started a new career with Correctional Services Canada (CSC) at the Prince Albert Penitentiary After a couple of winters, it was time to take on a new role in British Columbia with the Matsqui facility of the CSC Using the Fraser Valley as a base, the family went camping extensively and had their first introductions to the Okanagan Valley - to which Dan and Jessie would return so many years later

In late 1969 it was time to move again, this time to Ottawa, as Dan became the Director General of Medical Services for the CSC Dan was a transformative agent that led to significant and internationally renowned health services within a correctional context Quoting from a document extolling his professionalism: “Dr Daniel Craigen humanized health care services for offenders, an achievement which has had a profound effect on the entire service.” Underlying this view was Dan’s recognition that appropriate and timely health care was an essential component in the inmate’s efforts to rehabilitate themselves To summarize Dan’s career, he was unpretentious, highly professional, and demanded excellence from all that worked with him A gentleman with an exceptionally gifted mind.

In 1988, Dan retired from the CSC and he and Jessie moved to Kelowna, where many camping trips ensued and ongoing visits from children and grandchildren commenced. Visits were always joyous affairs within a loving family environment and resulted in many fond memories - from swimming, to learning chess, to solely having fun through many aspects of family interactions One of his highlights during this time (1995), Dan was awarded a diploma from the International Chito-Ryu Karate-Do federation for “diligent study, superior attitude and steady progress, in Chito-Ryu Karate-Do.”

In 2003 Jessie passed away Within two years, Dan met Sheila at their retirement home With many similar experiences, Dan and Sheila quickly hit it off and were married in 2005. Following was a time of cruises, getting to know each other, interacting with the extended families, and, otherwise, through their mutual interests, becoming closer together and almost certainly extending each other ’s lives They were together for 17-years

For 95-years, Dan had a well lived life with many accomplishments, much fun, and an extended successful family His passing will be missed by all his family and his many friends and colleagues

The family recognizes the exemplary efforts by Dr Daniel Obedkoff, the Kelowna Hospice House and Grace Integrity for their professionalism and, more importantly, the care that they showered upon Dan. The family will be forever grateful A private Celebration of Life will be held during 2023.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kelowna Hospice House

Dianna Paulene Weber

August 1, 1944 January 30, 2023

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of a beloved mother, wife, sister, and Ukrainian baba, Dianna Paulene Weber, on Monday January 30, 2023. She passed peacefully with her doting husband David at her side and in the attentive and sympathetic care of the amazing staff at Gillis House in Merritt The family wishes to commend and thank all of the health care personnel for their dedication and support over the last few years. Dianna’s death ends a long life journey rich in experiences from her early days helping on the Spelchan family farm in Armstrong, to her extensive career as a lab technician at the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre, to her unquestionable dedication to the Sacred Heart Parish Church and of course, her loving devotion to her husband David and three children Lynn, Michael and Susan.

A celebration of her life and church service will take place at 1:00pm on Saturday February 11 at the Sacred Heart Parish Catholic Church with coffee snacks and a brief commemorative slide show in the church hall thereafter

In lieu of cards or flowers, please consider spending a little extra time in prayer or with your own loved ones in care.

Beatrice Irene Proc

October 7, 1935 January 20, 2023

It is with heavy hearts our family shares the sudden passing of Beatrice Irene Proc. Our beloved mother and wife will be dearly missed by her husband Ed, married 65 years, daughters Kathy (Dan), Diane (Cliff), Susan (Harry) and son, Eddie (Mirta), 6 grand children, and 2 great grand children and Bailey her dog.

Bea lived her earlier years in McBride BC. where she met Ed, and started their family In 1970 they moved to Merritt Mom was always out and about socializing with her friends, enjoyed golfing, curling, bowling and the pool. Bea also supported all community events and attended church. Mom also enjoyed travelling with her children and friends.

Mom had an incredibly loving, kind and generous heart that touched everyone she knew

The Proc family would like to express their gratitude to the paramedics and the medical staff at the Merritt hospital for their compassionate care that our mother received.

Bea’s celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences can be sent online to the Merritt Funeral Chapel.

SPEAKING FOR ANIMALS

spca.bc.ca

BC SPCA foster program:

Foster a fur baby

Spring is here, and BC SPCA shelters are overflowing with orphaned, neglected and abused animals.

If you can open your heart and home to foster a pet, please call or visit your local BC SPCA branch today.

Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society Employment Opportunity NURSE/DEPARTMENT MANAGER

Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society (SCHSS) is seek ng a Registered Nurse to fill a full time Nursing Department Manager/ Community Health Nurse pos tion

Within the CHN role, the nurse will provide health promotion and communicable disease services such as: prenatal education, newbor n and infant assessments, immunization program, etc Management duties will include supervis ng healthcare staff, departmental reports, case conferences, conflict resolution, staff scheduling, etc

QUALIFICATIONS AND QUALITIES:

• Bachelor’s Degree n nursing from a Canadian university or equivalent

• Must be registered or eligible to be registered with BCCNM

• Training/Experience in community health nursing an asset

• BCCDC Immunization certification or willingness to obtain

• Valid CPR C ticket (or equivalent)

• Valid BC drivers’ icense

• Knowledge of First Nations history and traditions an asset

• Satisfactory Criminal records check

SCHSS offers competitive wages, a quality work environment, company vehicles for travel, and supports professional development

Applicants to provide: cover letter with salary expectation, resume copies of credent als and two professional references

Deadline for Applications: February 14, 2023

Submit resumes to: Barclay Smith, Execut ve Director Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society PO Box 3090, Merritt, B C V1K 1B8 Phone (250) 378-9745

Fax (250) 378-4962

Email: smith b@schss com

HELP WANTED FULL-TIME DELIVERY TRUCK DRIVER, WAREHOUSE PERSON AND SALES PERSON

City Furniture is seeking highly motivated individuals for multiple positions

Please apply in person with resume to City Furniture, 2025 Coutlee Ave , Merritt or by email: sonny@cityfurnituremerritt ca

We thank all candidates who apply but only those selected for an interview will be contacted

Mer ritt, BC

CURRENT JOB OPPOR TUNITIES

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

Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at https://www makeafuture ca/bcschools-and-districts/nicola-similkameen-school-district-no-58/

All applicants must provide a cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references for each position they want to be considered

Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted