Merritt Herald February 20, 2025

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NO CUTS TO RCMP IN MERRITT AFTER COUNCIL DECISION

reporter@merrittherald.com

RCMP in Merritt will likely retain its force strength of up to 17 active members, thus keeping 24-police service.

It was a majority decision by Merritt’s city council on Tuesday, Feb. 11. After much debate and consideration of the response from Merritt’s residents, it was decided that the city will make no cuts to the RCMP’s members and will continue to budget for 17 members.

Mayor Mike Goetz, who voted in favour of keeping the 17 members, said the decision will help the community as it grows.

“I think we have to look forward to our growth,” he said. “The next two years could see 450 to 500 new people coming to this community.”

It is a decision coming after 2024 saw a five-year high in crime rates across the city. With the city implementing this into their 2025-2029 financial plan, a property tax raise of 12 per cent will also have to be put into effect.

The budget has not yet been finalized and service reductions to other city departments or amenities could be taken to lower the tax increase.

It was far from an easy decision to balance the safety of the city and financial burden on 24-HOUR POLICING: continued on page 3

PAGE 22-30

HERITAGE WEEK

The Herald honours Merritt’s rich history during Heritage Week.

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

MERRITT’S 24-HOUR POLICING WILL STAY

: continued from page 1

The debate in council was over two of five options provided regarding the budgeting for the RCMP.

The option that was taken – option five – sees no reduction in RCMP service in any capacity.

Coun. Dana Egan, supportive of the chosen option, said if RCMP positions were cut in any way, the city may have to work hard to get them back in the future.

“I don’t think we should drop from 17 because in 2018 you had to fight for these positions and from conversations I’ve had, we’re gonna have to fight to get them back again,” she said.

The alternative choice would have seen the city adjusting their budget for less members. It is worth noting that in the alternative option, the city would only budget for RCMP members that are currently active, and they would still retain their 17 member contract with the RCMP.

Merritt currently has 14 active RCMP members and is unlikely to ever reach full capacity, as all detachments in the country operate with a few vacant spots. The plan would be to budget for 15 members and put the money saved from the budget reduction into a reserve for protective services which includes both the fire department and RCMP. If additional members were to be added to the detachment then funds would be taken out of the reserve to

pay for it.

Coun. Manuel Olguin, who was in favour of this alternate option, said “budgeting for 15 members provides a financial buffer without over-allocating funds to unfulfilled positions.”

“Any surplus can be placed in a restricted reserve for protected services, ensuring flexibility if additional staff is needed at a later date,” he continued.

Coun. Wendy Charney, also in support of the alternate option, said

“What I heard a lot at the open house is that they didn’t want cuts to our RCMP and they wanted to reduce taxes.” — Merritt City Coun. Wendy Charney

that option was the one that fulfilled keeping the RCMP at its current strength and one that cut taxes.

“What I heard a lot at the open house is that they (Merritt citizens) didn’t want cuts to our RCMP and they wanted to reduce taxes,” she said.

For each RCMP member taken out of the budget this way, 1.6 per cent would be taken off the tax increase.

As it stands, municipalities across Canada are required to pay 70 per cent of their detachment’s RCMP costs with the federal government covering the other 30 per cent.

The City of Merritt is currently

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Contact Laísa or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

allocating nearly $3.5-million of their annual budget into the RCMP detachment, with that number expected to rise in the coming years.

As the federal government attempts to modernize the RCMP across the country, municipalities have no choice but to allocate funds to these upgrades.

For example, an annual allocation of around $14,500 for the next five years is being put into funding for tasers alone.

Another $26,000 for the next five years is also being put towards body cameras.

“We have no say in what they get, that is negotiated between the police and the federal government,” said Chief Administrative Officer Cynthia White during the Feb. 11 council meeting.

Though it’s in the budget, it is not guaranteed that all of this equipment will be implemented into the police force.

New equipment that is not issued to the detachment will not have to be paid for by the city.

“If they don’t implement it then we don’t pay for it, however we have to budget for it because the intent is for it to be implemented this year,” White said.

Merritt RCMP’s Staff Sgt. Joshua Roda said he recognizes that it was a difficult decision for the mayor and council to make. He said he is thankful he was given the opportunity to provide the facts of the situation.

INTERIOR HEALTH SEES DECLINE IN STAFFING VACANCY RATE

KRISTEN HOLLIDAY CASTANET

The CEO of Interior Health says the health authority is seeing its staffing vacancy rate decline as it steps up efforts to avoid temporary emergency department closures.

“We have made tremendous efforts in recruitment, and with local leadership and physicians to try and minimize these wherever possible,” Susan Brown told the IH board during a Wednesday meeting.

Temporary emergency room closures have plagued hospitals in smaller cities and rural areas, including Merritt — which saw a service disruption as recently as last weekend.

Last year, Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz sent a $103,000 bill to Victoria, seeking compensation for the City of Merritt for the days the hospital ER was closed, and for expenses spent on city firefighters attending medical

calls during the closures.

Hospital emergency departments in Clearwater, Oliver, 100 Mile House, and Lillooet have also seen temporary ER shutdowns in recent months.

Brown told the board such closures are an “absolute last resort.”

She said IH is seeing its vacancy rate come down, but they need to continue to focus on domestic and international recruitment to ensure positions are filled at each site to prevent future disruptions.

“Good news that the vacancy is coming down, but we still have some work to do,” Brown said.

“[We] just want our communities to know we’re really trying hard in this area, and doing everything we can to mitigate by using locum pools of physicians, and we’ve got some dedicated resources from other agencies or GoHealth BC to try and bolster our clinical teams.”

PHOTO/CASTANET

Susan Brown, CEO of Interior Health, said vacancy rates are decreasing as the health authority tries to tackle ER closures.

PROBATION FOR LOOTERS BUSTED INSIDE MERRITT HOUSE LEFT UNINHABITABLE BY 2021 FLOODS

A man caught looting a house left uninhabitable by the devastating floods that hit Merritt in 2021 has been ordered to spend 18 months on probation.

Kody Robert Weymouth, 30, pleaded guilty in Kamloops provincial court on Wednesday to one count of break and enter to commit an indictable offence.

Court heard Weymouth and two others broke into a home in the 800-block of Pine Street in Merritt on Aug. 2, 2023.

Crown prosecutor Bonnie MacDonald said the Pine Street house was “very badly damaged” in the flood, and in the summer of 2023 it sat empty while the owners were waiting to find out whether repairs would be covered by insurance.

“The property was sitting in limbo for quite a period of time,” she said.

“The family that had previously lived there moved out because it was not inhabitable, but they left a significant amount of belongings in the residence.”

MacDonald said the home became a frequent target for looters.

“There were multiple break and enters at this residence, to the point where the owner of the property installed game cameras to try to catch the people that were doing the break and enters,” she said.

“Eventually, the game cameras were stolen.”

MacDonald said the homeowners eventually hired private security to keep an eye on the property, and that’s how Weymouth and his co-accused were busted — a guard on patrol noticed a pile of personal belongings sitting on the hot tub cover, so she investigated and called

When police arrived, they arrested Weymouth, Trey Keigan Blaze Peters and Chelsey Nicole Dirksen. MacDonald said break-in tools were found in each of their possession. Weymouth said he was just looking around.

Defence lawyer John Gustafson said Weymouth is homeless and addicted to drugs, but he has a place lined up and wants to get clean.

“Although break and enter is always to be treated as a serious offence, the circumstances here are that the probability of running into the residents of the house were quite low,” he said.

“In fact, what he runs into instead is a security guard, and he is caught at the scene in what appears to be a very unsophisticated break and enter.”

Kamloops provincial court Judge Michelle Stanford went along with a joint submission for an 18-month period of probation — the same sentence already handed to both Peters and Dirksen.

While on probation, Weymouth will be prohibited from going to the property or having any contact with its owners. He will also be required to take counselling as directed by his probation officer and prohibited from possessing any break-in tools.

The Coldwater River water rose 2.5 times predicted high-water estimates in a matter of hours on Nov. 14, 2021, destroying flood warning systems, overcoming the city’s dike infrastructure and flooding about 800 properties in low-lying areas.

More than 7,000 people were forced to evacuate.

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TIM PETRUK CASTANET

Mounties.

A looter that was caught inside an uninhabitable house in Merritt will be spending 18 months on probation, judge decides.

CITY OF MERRITT GETTING $40K TO ENSURE INCLUSIVE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

The City of Merritt will receive $40,000 in provincial funding to ensure local emergency management practices are inclusive and respectful of Indigenous people and communities.

The funding, which is part of about $1 million of provincial funding, aims to ensure that Indigenous Peoples receive culturally sensitive support during emergencies in communities across the province through the Community Emergency and Preparedness Fund (CEPF).

Since its establishment, the Province has invested $369 million into the CEPF, funding approximately 2,170 projects, with around $301 million of that total benefiting First Nations and local governments.

Christine Boyle, minister of Indigenous relations and reconciliation, noted the broader benefits of the funding.

“This funding ensures First Nations are at the table informing decisions that affect them.”

— Christine Boyle, minister of Indigenous relations and reconciliations

Cynthia White, chief administrative officer at the City of Merritt, said the city is grateful to receive the $40,000 from the provincial government.

“This funding will support engagement with local Indigenous governments to develop a comprehensive Emergency Management Plan,” she told the Herald in an email.

“This process will also serve to strengthen collaborative relationships for emergency response in Merritt and the broader Nicola Valley.”

White also added that the $40,000 received combined with the Province’s Indigenous Engagement Requirements Funding Program will allow the city to “hire a fully grantfunded, one-year Intergovernmental Relations Liaison to spearhead this important work.”

“This funding ensures First Nations are at the table informing decisions that affect them, their families and their territories in a way that also strengthens and supports the capacity for First Nation communities and local governments to be true partners in emergency management,” said Boyle.

“By prioritizing cultural safety and Indigenous knowledge in emergency situations, emergency services can be delivered in a culturally safe and effective way, and move forward together for increased collaborative community resilience.”

Kelly Greene, minister of emergency management and climate readiness, added that “ensuring access to culturally sensitive supports is essential to people’s safety and well-being.

“By providing staff and volunteers with cultural safety training, support and relationship building, we help ensure Indigenous people feel valued, included and cared for during emergencies.”

Nicola Valley Emergency Support Services voluteers at the Merritt Civic Centre.

NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT

PROROGUED

PARLIAMENT DELAYS VITAL IMMIGRATION DISCUSSIONS

In October of last year, Prime Minister Trudeau announced that the Liberal government would implement several measures to reduce what many have called “out of control” immigration growth during his leadership.

The announced measures aimed to significantly reduce the number of international students in Canada, along with decreasing temporary foreign workers and permanent resident approvals.

At the time, Prime Minister Trudeau made the unusual statement, “We could have acted quicker and turned off the taps faster.” I say “unusual” because it is rare for him to openly admit failure on the part of his government. This immigration reduction aims to ease housing demands, which would help lower costs across other sectors of our economy affected by population growth.

Despite the Prime Minister’s announcement, data shows that Canada’s population growth projections remain largely unchanged. Although some progress has been made, additional measures will be necessary to achieve the goals set by Prime Minister Trudeau.

Normally, these topics would be covered in Parliament; however, with the House of Commons currently prorogued, there is no opportunity to do so. Parliament is important for many reasons.

Here’s one example: Years ago, I had a constituent whose child benefit payments were threatened with suspension by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). They

IF

demanded she prove her husband no longer lived in the same home. The CRA’s requirements for proving this were virtually impossible to satisfy. This situation caused immense stress and anxiety for the single mother.

When I raised this issue in Parliament, I was dismayed to learn that several other single parents across Canada were facing the exact same situation.

The issue eventually became a national media story, causing significant embarrassment for the Liberal Government.

Credit goes to the Minister’s office, which eventually reached out, allowing us to resolve this issue for everyone affected. Policy changes were subsequently made to prevent other single parents from encountering similar difficulties.

This experience clearly demonstrated the power of Parliament to create meaningful change. Now, with Canada facing potential tariffs and counter-tariffs, having Parliament in session is crucial for properly addressing these concerns. The vast majority of Canadians are united in our need to stand together to advance our national interests—and what better place to do this than through Parliament and our democratically elected representatives?

Based on recent feedback, many constituents have strong views about how Canada should respond to these tariffs. Their suggestions range from implementing counter-tariffs to addressing border issues, improving interprovincial trade, diversifying our markets (particularly for energy), and promoting Canadian-made goods. The unifying thread in all this feedback is what I see as a surge in patriotism.

I KNEW I WAS GOING TO LIVE THIS LONG, I WOULD’VE TAKEN BETTER CARE OF MYSELF

BONNIE DIXON Healthy

Conversations

Every d ay, we make countless choices about what we consume— whether it’s a cigarette, a potato chip, a fast-food burger, or even a pill. But how often do we pause to consider what’s actually in these items before we put them in our mouths?

Understanding the pros and cons of our choices can make a significant difference in our health and well-being.

The Pros

Many of these items offer convenience, satisfaction, or relief. Fast food provides a quick meal during a busy day. Chips satisfy cravings with their salty crunch. Medications can relieve pain or manage chronic conditions. Even cigarettes, despite their well-known dangers, offer stress relief for some smokers. These products can serve a purpose, whether it’s ease, enjoyment, or necessity.

The Cons

However, the downsides can be significant. Processed foods like chips and burgers often contain unhealthy fats, high sodium, and calories that contribute to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals, increasing the risk of cancer and respiratory diseases. Even medications, while beneficial, can have side effects or interact dangerously with other substances. Illegal drugs are a gamble with your life.

The Solution: Awareness

The key is awareness. Taking a moment to check ingredients, research side effects, or opt for healthier alternatives can make a difference. Choosing fresh, whole foods over processed ones, seeking natural stress relief instead of smoking, and doing research before taking a pill can lead to better health outcomes.

Many years ago my mother, a nurse, told me to consider this: Before you put it in your mouth, ask yourself: Do I know what’s in this? Your well-being will depend on the answer.

DAN ALBAS View from the Hill

LETTERS to the Editor

TRUDEAU SHOULD STAY ON AS PM

Editor,

The reasons for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigning have now been made irrelevant, since he stepped down because of his drop in support. However, the EKOS polling firm, which gave Trudeau a lousy 19.4% level of support only three days after the traitor Chystia Freeland resigned, now gives Trudeau 32%, only 1.9% less than his rival Pierre Pollievre. If the election were called today, it would be a toss-up. It’s any man’s game. Other polls are also showing Trudeau is nearly tied with Pollievre. Furthermore, Donald Trump has backed away from his threats so there is no need to send Freeland over there, which was the original reason that Trudeau gave for demoting this unappreciative, backstabbing ingrate.

Actually, all of the Liberal leadership candidates are campaigning Right-ofCentre, and absolutely none will continue Trudeau’s legacy, which is another reason that Trudeau should place no faith in any of these candidates. Specifically, Freeland stated in her resignation letter that she opposed Trudeau’s promise of $250 cheques to working Canadians who earned $150,000 or less in 2023. Freeland referred to the proposal as a “costly political gimmick” and argued that the Canadian government should “[keep] our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war.” Furthermore, leadership contender and banker MarK Carney from the corporate world will not be any more left than Freeland. Trudeau has a right to simply dismiss the current race since no one is really promising to carry his mantle and legacy. If he carries through with his resignation, all of the many social programs that he has advanced (dental care, child care) will risk being cut by

the next Liberal government. There is no Trudeauesque alternative, and he simply has the right to delay the leadership race until such a candidate presents itself, to re-open the nomination process.

Some may question Trudeau’s ability to cancel his own “scheduled” resignation. First of all in Canadian law there is no such thing as a “scheduled” resignation. Rather, you are either Prime Minister or you are not. If you are Prime Minister it is because the Governor General believes that the majority of Parliament has given you their support on confidence votes. While Trudeau has told the Governor General he will be resigning once a new Liberal Leader is in place, he can theoretically renege on this promise. Then, if he is powerful enough politically in his party, he can attempt to have his henchman in the party cancel the current Leadership election. Or, he can go to the Governor General now and ask for Parliament to be dissolved and for an election to be called. The Governor General is under no obligation to wait until a new Liberal Leader is elected, because the Prime Minister still has the prerogative to dissolve parliament and call election when he so wishes, and Trudeau is still Prime Minister. If such an election were to occur immediately, quite possibly the Liberal executive could vote to stall the Liberal leadership vote, as their constitution allows for that to happen, and thus the date could be stalled until after the election is finished. Naturally, if Trudeau is re-elected for a fourth time, that Liberal Leadership race can be delayed even further, another 2 or 4 years, while Trudeau as the current Leader of the Liberal Party (or is he Interim Leader) remains Prime Minister. Trudeau has given only one reason for his resigning, and that is because of the infighting. Sure, if he cancelled the Liberal Leadership Race, he would face a lot of backlash, but if he dissolves

parliament first and calls an election, all of those treacherous Liberal MPs would be forced to start campaigning in their riding and not spend time humiliating Trudeau. Even if he decides to simply delay the Leadership race vote so that he can be in Parliament when it resumes seating, he could allow himself to lose the confidence of the House in a vote so that an election can be called. It’s really up to him, if he can stand up to his ungrateful bullies, those Liberal MPs who owe their jobs to Justin Trudeau exclusively and conclusively.

Also, even if Trudeau were to win less seats than Pierre Pollievre in a minority government situation, there would be no obligation for Trudeau to resign if the Governor General were to let him first try to show if he can continue with the confidence of Parliament. That is, if Trudeau can make a deal with the NDP, Greens or Bloc should Pollievre receive more seats than Trudeau in a minority government, he can hold on to power. This is because the NDP, Greens and Bloc tend to be left-of-centre or centrist and thus naturally gravitate to Trudeau. While the Conservatives cannot depend on any right-leaning parties like Joe Clark would have in 1979 with the Social Credit Party’s support. Ask yourself, why has Trudeau now lead the longest (or second longest) minority government in history? It’s because firstly the left/centre parties don’t want to risk putting Pollievre into power, and secondly because they know that Trudeau will cream them as he has won 3 elections in a row. Also because Trudeau knows how to work with the other parties to give them what they want in exchange for their vote. Therefore, Trudeau has a path forward if he wants to stay on and lead the country some more. He should delay or cancel the Leadership race, and call an election if necessary, now or after parliament resumes.

– Robert Nelly

CORRECTION –– JAN. 30, 2025 EDITION

The article ‘Restorative Justice offers healing alternative to traditional system” published on Jan. 30, 2025, edition of the Herald stated Elder Mary Angus’ name as Mary Agnus. The Herald profusely apologizes for the mistakes in the previous article.

The Herald recognizes an ethical responsibility to promptly correct all factual errors, large or small. We encourage you to contact us if you think you see a mistake. Messages about news coverage, comments about the opinion section can be sent to newsroom@merrittherald.com and publisher@merrittherald.com

FEBRUARY 16, 2017

FIRE WARDEN

The Nicola Valley’s longtime fire warden has called it quits after a career spanning more than half a century. For 62 years, Walter Archachan has worked for the BC Wildfire Service, most notably in his role as a fire warden, and officially retired last September.

• FUTURE PROOFING: TheCit yofMerritt needstos aveupfor anew wastewater treatment plant, amongother largec apit alexpenses. Ta xincreases of 12%in2024and 2025 were planned,withthe expect ation to normalizethe levelofincreasein2026.

• PROPOSED MUNICIPALTAX INCREA SE S of 12%onlyaffect aboutHALF(about55%)ofyour propert yt ax bill?The remainingt ax bill is allocatedtoother agencies like theTNRD, Schools, and Tr ansit. This proposed 12%municipal taxincrease tr anslates into amonthly increase of about$22 forthe aver agehouse,valuedat$ 445,00 0.

• COUNCILCONTINUES TO DE LIBERATE the proposed 12%t ax increase andisexploring hard questionsabout howwec an reduce that amount . View variousoptionsonthe City ’s website.

Fire Services

•MERRITT FIRERE SCUE COMPRISE S6%OFTHE MUNICIPAL OPER ATINGBUDGE T

• MANDATED EQUIPMENT& SERVICES: Merritt Fire Rescue must follow Canadian guidelines setbythe Fire Underwriters Survey (FUS)toreplace agingfire trucks or ensureminimumpumping capacity of 3, 30 0GPM.

• MANPOWER SAVINGS: Merritt Fire Rescue hasbeen able to off setthe cost of career st affing by es tablishing anationally recognized Work Experience Program.

• LOWERPROPERT YINSUR ANCE RATES: Proper ties locatedout side theCit y’sFireProtectionarea must pay up to 210% more on theirpropert yinsur ance

•C ALLVOLUME HASDOUBLED in thelastdecade,due in part to hospital/ambulance staffing issues, increased vehiclecollisions, homelessness,and wildfireactivity.

• NO BUDGET CUTS: Residents wouldexperiencehigher insurancecos ts andgreater risk if thebudgetwerecut . 4MERRITT.C A/FIRESERVICE

•POLICINGIS31% OFMUNICIPALCOSTS in theannualoperatingbudget

• SPEAKWITHCOUNCIL: Whilethe best time toconnec twithCouncil on thebudgetwas the January 30 th Public Engagement Session, thereis still timetoshare your thoughts.You maycontact theM ayoror aCit y Councilloratany time. Or addressCouncil at an upcomingpublicCouncil Meetingwhere thebudgetisonthe agenda.

•POLICINGCOSTDOUBLED SINCE2 019, goingfrom$1,792,637to$3,449,694

•24HOURPOLICINGREMAINS THEGOAL: Whilethe 17 contracted member swould be ideal for24hourpolicing, this full complement remains unfulfilled,withonly14members on ac tivedut y, requiringthe augmentationofwatches to maintain servicelevels. RCMP commanderrepor ts that it is unlikely to st aff more than 15 positions

• NO BUDG ET CUTS:Inthe Febr uary 11,2025, Council Meeting ,Council votedinf avourof(Option5) “Continue to budget 17 member sand any surplus wouldbeplacedinres tric tedreser ve for protec tiveservices.”Thisoption does notprovide fora decrease in theproposed12% ta xincrease.

COMMUNICATION AND SECURITY WANTED FROM SHELTER

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

Since opening, the shelter at the Knight’s Inn has polarized public opinion on their operations regarding security and

community interaction.

It’s been a month since the shelter at the Knight’s Inn opened in the face of heavy reservation from the community.

The shelter is a major change compared to

its predecessor, the Desert Inn. It boasts more security features such as perimeter fencing, security cameras and a night curfew.

Something the Desert Inn had that the Knight’s Inn doesn’t is security around the premises.

Leading up to and a month after opening, the Knight’s Inn contracted security to prevent theft while the property was under construction.

Before the opening and during tours of the shelter, staff from BC Housing and Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society (NVSSS) were clear that security would only be there temporarily.

But some citizens in Merritt are concerned and felt like the shelter is putting the surrounding neighbourhood at-risk.

Citizens on Patrol Merritt is one such group. They are local residents who walk the streets at night, reporting crimes in progress to the police as well as trying to prevent theft or vandalism through their presence.

Bryan Halfordilo is the co-founder of Merritt Citizens on Patrol. He expressed his concern at the lack of security personnel at the shelter.

“Security does need to be there. It’ll put more people at ease, I guess. And it’s a little

less stress on us, because we’re having to drive around more in that area (around the homeless shelter), instead of concentrating more on other areas that we’ve heard,” he said.

In 2024, the previous shelter, the Desert Inn, was the number one location for police service calls with 133 calls. Most of those came during the time before the homeless shelter there closed.

Halfordilo said he was concerned with how BC Housing and NVSSS has communicated with the wider community.

“We thought it would definitely be more hands on with them through the community and with the security,” he said. “It’s just bringing, you know, a little bit of mayhem to town, and it was brought on really quickly to us.”

A lot of his sentiment comes from the shelter’s opening.

He felt the community’s concerns and pushback against the shelter were not taken into consideration.

Halfordilo also wants to see the shelter take in more people, as well as see a greater effort from shelter staff in finding people to stay, rather than them coming to the shelter.

Currently the Knight’s Inn shelter is

HOMELESS SHELTER: continued on page 3

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PHOTO TY LIM

The shelter at the Knight’s Inn boasts a perimeter fence, cameras and 24/7 staffing.

‘WE’VE

BEEN BLESSED. WE HAVEN’T REALLY HAD ANYTHING VIOLENT HAPPEN’

HOMELESS SHELTER: continued from page 9

operating at around 50 per cent of its 44-bed capacity with around 20 to 22 residents.

The current homeless count in Merritt is at 67 persons as of a 2023 survey.

“We figured there would probably be more outreach out of them to help try to get the homeless and the drug addicts in there (the shelter) to be warm at night, because they’re out there at -25 C,” he said.

“The shelter is there. It’s manned with people that can actually help with that and they need to take advantage (of that). We’d like to see everybody in a house.”

Staff from NVSSS and BC Housing previously stated that they would slowly in-take residents over the first few months of opening.

Crime is on the rise in Merritt, as 2024 marked a five-year high in theft. Halfordilo said he’s seeing more theft and property damage on his nighttime patrols too.

But in regards to the shelter, John Warren, the shelter’s program coo-ordinator, said there’s been no incidents since opening.

One reason for this is because they have staff on-site 24-7. He said staff are trained extensively in dealing with a variety of situations that could arise in their environment.

The staff at the shelter are trained to oversee drug-use with the ability to use a naloxone kit. In terms of a violent situation, Warren said the staff are trained and encouraged to de-escalate the situation rather than get involved physically.

“Say somebody is heated, they don’t want to go into their room, or they’re overdosing or they’re dealing with people. Sometimes this environment can create anxiety for just a certain amount of reasons,” he said.

“Our staff is trained to deal with that, to de-escalate it to a point where we don’t have to have security here, or have to have police here at every moment.”

“That’s the whole reason why we have the amount of staff that we have on at all times. It’s kind of their passion. So at the end of the day, they’re putting their best foot forward.”

The shelter does have a plan in place if violent or criminal activity involves one of their residents.

Warren said if a resident of the shelter was caught committing crimes in the community, they would no longer be able to stay at the shelter.

With cameras around the premises and the night-time curfew, he said it would be

easy to figure out who it is.

Regarding the shelter operating at only half-capacity, Warren said it’s because some of the shelter’s potenital residents did not like the idea of the curfew.

“I’d rather operate at half capacity with people that we’re getting help with, than have no curfew and have the distrust of the neighbours around us,” he said.

He also said that with a working relationship with RCMP, he can expect a fast response if a violent situation were to break out. This working relationship has also allowed for RCMP members on patrol to drop off people experiencing homelessness at the shelter.

Warren said this relationship provides some relief to the RCMP’s manpower, allowing them to focus elsewhere.

In the month since opening, the shelter has seemingly not had any trouble.

“We’ve been blessed. We haven’t had anything really violent or anything like that,” Warren said.

“I think that’s another misconception I think a lot of people have about the shelter. I think they think it’s like this violent place. A lot of the people that stay here stay here because they can’t find housing. I mean (in reality) it’s one of those things where it’s not a violent place.”

Regarding security personnel, Warren said it wasn’t worth what BC Housing was paying, especially since the shelter has not yet had any incidents.

“We have more than enough security provisions in place, with our gates, our self locking. We have panic buttons, we have, you name it, we have it other than actual security,” he said.

Warren said he wants to work in a closer capacity with the community going into the future.

“I hope to one day get to a point where we can actually work within the public,” he said. “(Together) We can embrace the new changes and the difficulties that we’re facing together in the community.”

He said that if people have concerns about the shelter, they can contact him and he will schedule a time to talk or even provide a tour of the facility.

Halfordilo also hopes to see more community engagement, saying that he shares the same wish of getting as many people off the streets as possible.

He even said he would be open to a working relationship with the shelter.

But he would still like to see security so that the neighbourhood can feel at-ease.

CLOTHING CLOSET AT HOSPITAL HELPS PATIENTS

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

Patients of the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Care Centre don’t have to worry about going home under-clothed thanks to one social worker’s efforts.

For a year-and-a-half Natasha Thys, social worker at NVHC, has been collecting clothes to make sure every patient leaves suitably dressed.

“I like helping people and I like to just be that person who makes someone’s day, even if it’s just a pair of socks,” Natasha said. She collects all kinds of clothing, including; sweatpants, sweaters, winter jackets and boots, gloves, toques and socks.

Natasha grew up in Kelowna and found her way to Merritt, studying at NVIT to become a social worker.

Since moving here, Natasha said she’s fallen in love with the outdoor lifestyle and small-town feel that Merritt offers.

“Living in Merritt, you know the majority of the town. Your neighbour is the clerk at the grocery store and a lot of my neighbours are the police in town, so you get really familiar with everybody,” she said.

“You get to know who in your community has those needs, and they might be someone you come across in my field of work, especially at the hospital, who might just need a little bit of something to help them out more.”

Natasha is generally able to supply the clothing through donations from friends, family and the community at-large.

Helping others is a trait ingrained in her family, it seems. Natasha’s grandmother, Florence Thys, supports the clothing closet at NVH donating socks and toques she’s knitted herself.

sometimes underdressed.

Going forward, Natasha hopes the closet will continue to thrive and grow more.

Since it’s common for her to source clothing at the last minute, one thing she wanted is a steadier flow of clothing donations so the closet has a surplus.

Natasha’s efforts are appreciated with other staff in the hospital.

“Natasha has been such a great resource to Merritt and she does everything she can to support the community in her everyday work.” said Mark Bagabuyo, manager of clinical operations at NVH.

“That’s her winter activity, but I also think she likes being involved in it too, knowing the things she is making is helping others,” Natasha said.

The idea first came to her when she worked for Interior Health Services in Kamloops. At that location they had a clothing closet for discharged patients in need of something to wear.

When she moved to Merritt, she noticed that service was missing and wanted to implement it to help improve the quality of a patient’s stay.

“Before we were trying to scrounge up anything we could for patients,” she said. Some patients even went home in hospital gowns or torn clothing after being involved in an accident.

“No one wants to go home putting on a shirt with bodily fluid (on it),” she said.

Merritt’s auxiliary thrift store was a major proprietor of her work, especially during the winter when warm clothing was in high demand.

“A lot of the time homeless individuals in the community come in without proper clothing. For example, we had somebody come to the hospital last month with flip flops on and it was snowing and I was able to give them a pair of winter boots. We had someone else come to the hospital because they were cold and they only had a sweater and sweatpants on and we were able to give them a winter jacket. So, it’s just making sure they have those things they need. It makes me feel better because I know that they have warm clothes.”

Winter isn’t the only time where the clothing closet is needed though. During the summer, some people attending the music festivals are brought to the hospital and are

is inviting friendsand memberstoa SOCIAL EVEN IN G& AN NUAL GE NE RALMEE TI NG Ma rc h6,2 02 5 at 6: 00 pm attheC anadianC ountry MusicHallofHonour, 2025BQ ui lche na Aven ue Join us forhorsd’oeuvres,refreshments& music.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO TREAT:

The Ministry of Forests, Thompson Okanagan Region, is planning to aerially treat up to 40,000 hectares of Douglas-fir forest to reduce damage caused by the western spruce budworm (Choristoneura freemani).

The biological insecticide Foray 48B (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) will be applied by rotary-wing aircraft (315B Lama, Hiller UH12ET) once on each site at 2.4 litres/ha from approximately June 5 to July 5, 2025, depending on insect development and weather conditions.

The proposed treatment sites are located within the Kamloops and Merritt Timber Supply Areas (TSA).

Kamloops TSA:

• Veasy Lake

Merritt TSA:

• Prospect Creek

• Coldwater Creek

• Mt. McInnes

• Tulameen

All sites proposed for treatment are covered by the Southern Interior Area Forest Health Program Pest Management Plan #2022-2027 confirmation #402-0685-22-27.

The Pest Management Plan and maps of proposed treatment areas may be viewed online, at https://ow.ly/6Lpf50UMKWK or in-person, at Ministry of Forests, Thompson Okanagan Region, Forest Health, 441 Columbia Street, Kamloops, B.C., V2C 2T3.

Anyone wishing to contribute information about the proposed treatment sites may send comments by mail to the address above or by email to Lorraine Maclauchlan at Lorraine.Maclauchlan@gov.bc.ca until April 25, 2025.

PHOTO NICOLA VALLEY HOSPITAL AND HEALTH CARE CENTRE

Natasha Thys in front of the clothing closet at Nicola Valley Hospital.

CITY STREETS FILLED DURING

STOP

Campaign 2025

Bullying comes in many forms

Bullying can affect both children and adults. Bullying typically involves an imbalance of power, when one person acts superior to another or holds a higher title than another.

Being the recipient of bullying never feels good, and it is something that should not be tolerated in schools, businesses or other settings. There are many different types of bullying, so much so that it can be difficult to discern what constitutes bullying and distinguishes it from good-natured teasing. Here’s a look at some of the forms of bullying that can cause pain and distress.

PHYSICAL BULLYING

This type of bullying involves any assault on a person’s body, which can include hitting, kicking, pushing, tripping, stealing personal possessions, or breaking an individual’s belongings. Verywell Mind says that males are more inclined to engage in physical bullying than females.

VERBAL BULLYING

Verbal bullying takes place when someone engages in name-calling or using cruel words that are disrespectful or full of vitriol. Verbal bullying may be employed to attack a person’s beliefs, mock a disability, disparage someone’s appearance, and more.

SOCIAL BULLYING

This type of bullying can include excluding others from

a group or getting others to exclude, gossip or spread rumors. Setting another person up to look foolish in front of others or damaging reputations or relationships are additional examples of social bullying. Sometimes this bullying is called emotional bullying.

CYBERBULLYING

As the name implies, cyberbullying is bullying behavior that takes place through electronic means, says Stomp Out Bullying. Cyberbullying occurs in chat rooms, over social media, through email, and more. It has become a large problem for school-aged children in recent years, as the bullying can follow a child home through their devices. Research by the Cyberbullying Research Center shows that 15 percent of 9- to12-year-olds and 37 percent of 13- to 17-year-olds have experienced cyberbullying at some point in their lives.

RACIST BULLYING

Uttering racial slurs, mocking a person’s cultural customs, making offensive gestures, and spray painting graffiti with offensive, racially charged images or words are all forms of racist bullying.

Bullying can lead to isolation, depression and anxiety and can even contribute to thoughts of suicide. Taking prompt action and asking for help if bullying is suspected can get individuals the assistance they need.

Bullying remains a significant concern affecting children worldwide, with various studies highlighting its prevalence and impact. The issue of bullying is not confined to one region.

Prevalence of Bullying

United States: Approximately 19% of students aged 12-18 reported being bullied during the 2021-2022 school year.

Australia: One in six school students have experienced bullying, placing Australia among the countries with the highest rates of school bullying.

Canada: At least one in three adolescent students have reported being bullied.

Bullying manifests in various forms, including physical aggression, verbal harassment, social exclusion, and cyberbullying

Addressing bullying requires comprehensive strategies involving educators, parents, policymakers, and students. Implementing inclusive policies, fostering supportive environments, and promoting awareness are crucial steps toward mitigating the prevalence and impact of bullying on children worldwide.

PREVENTING BULLYING

TIPS FOR PARENTS & CAREGIVERS

• Listen to your child entirely before reacting

• Involve your child in finding solutions

• With your child’s help, create a team of support for you and your child (teachers, school counselors, trusted family members, etc.)

• Help your child learn how to cope with stress and anxiety

• Build your child’s capacity to respond effectively to the bullying by:

• º Abstaining from violence

• º Not counter-bullying

• Help your child to build their self-esteem by:

• º Engaging them in activities they enjoy

• º Praising their good efforts and accomplishments

• Remind your child that you love them

• Know when the problem is getting too big for them, and seek appropriate intervention

• To get help: Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 or kidshelpphone.ca

• Find out what motivates your child to bully, and encourage an open and honest discussion

• Use non-violent and age-appropriate consequences; set rules

• Discuss how your child can take steps to repair the damage caused by the bullying behaviour

• With your child’s help, create a team of support for the both of you (teachers, school counselors, trusted family members, etc.)

• Stay calm and be firm—let your child know that bullying is not acceptable

• Explore the different options for your child to stand up against bullying

• Educate your child to intervene immediately to stop the bullying, but to get an adult to help with the intervention if it’s unsafe to act without an adult present

• Approach the person being bullied to provide support

• Be a positive role model in your child’s life by being aware of how you use your own power Information provided by redcross.ca/respecteducation Preventing Bullying

• Explain the difference between “tattling” on someone as opposed to reporting in order to stop someone from getting hurt

• Encourage your child to come up with creative ways to intervene in a bullying situation, such as changing the subject or starting a game

• Set a good example for your child by showing that you care about others

Take a stand. If you are being targeted keep your cool and walk away. Using insults or fighting back might make the problem worse.

Don’t join in the bullying by putting yourself down. Stay focused on things that make you feel confident and proud of yourself.

Get support. Hang out with friends that will support you, and work together to speak out against bullying and harassment.

Think about the qualities you want in a friend and try to have those qualities yourself. Know that people who treat you poorly, exclude you or spread rumours about you are not good friends.

Don’t cast yourself as a “victim” for life. This person or people have singled you out in this situation but that doesn’t mean it will always be that way.

Cope with strong feelings of sadness or anger in a healthy way through sports, music, reading, journaling, or talking it out.

FACTS

YOU ARE NOT ALONE, ASK 4 HELP

Talk about it with someone you trust and try to find a healthy way to change what is happening or how you react to it.

Call a help line – reaching out to a counsellor in an anonymous way can help make talking about it easier.

KidsHelpPhone

t. 1-800-668-6868

e. kidshelpphone.ca

NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS

BACK-TO-BACK WINS AS CENTS DEFEAT PRINCETON AND SICAMOUS

LAÍSA CONDÉ

editor@merrittherald.com

Tuesday, Feb. 11 – Merritt

Centennials 2, Princeton Posse 1

The Merritt Centennials slowed down one of the KIJHL’s hottest teams last Tuesday night, as they won 2-1 against the Princeton Posse.

As is the case in most one-goal difference games, Tuesday night was a classic goalie battle.

Cents’ goalie Andrew Krakora made 46 saves as Gibson Horne made 32 for Posse.

The game lacked a quick jumpstart for the visitors, but by seven minutes into the opening period the Cents got on the board with a goal by Ethan Nesimiuk (4).

The one goal lead would carry past mid second period, when Sam Giangualano (25) put it past Princeton’s goalie during a power play, making it 2-0 for the Cents.

The final frame saw plenty of back and forth, with both teams generating opportunities.

But despite the many shots on goal in the final frame, only one lucky shot by Princeton’s Matthew Langdon found the back of the net.

The final horn came just shortly before 9:30 p.m., with the Cents securing a 2-1 win against Princeton.

Monday, Feb. 17 – Merritt

Centennials 5, Sicamous Eagles 2

On a day dedicated to family and community, the Merritt Centennials gave their fans something to celebrate as they defeated the Sicamous Eagles 5-2 on Monday at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

Merritt came out the gate strong as just over two minutes, Dane Dietz (5) managed to open the scoring for the home team.

The first period saw a lot of back and forth action between the two teams.

Troy Horn potted a goal of his own, increasing the lead for the Centennials.

The two-goal lead would be gone just two minutes later, as the Eagles managed to put it past Cents’ goalie Mathis Perron.

Merritt would increase its lead with Dylan Ruff (14) by the end of the period.

The two goal lead would carry past mid second period, when Horn added another goal for the Cents, making the score 4-1.

The final period saw a shy goal from Sicamous as Reyd Langan found the back of the net, shortening the lead for the Cents.

The two goal lead would carry until the last two minutes of the game, when Cohen Poulin crowned the victory for Merritt with an empty net goal as he scored his first goal as a Centennial.

The Merritt Centennials hit the ice again on Friday, Feb. 21, against the Princeton Posse for their last home game before playoffs.

Merritt Centennials head to their next final home before playoffs this upcoming weekend, aiming to stay undefeated.

BILL OHLHAUSEN DIVISION

PHOTO/LAISA CONDE

The

SNOWMOBILE CHILI RUN BRINGS THRILLS AND FLAVOURS TO

MERRITT MISFITS U14 TAKES SIXTH AT SUPER SPIKE TOURNAMENT

LAISA CONDE editor@merrittherald.com

This past weekend, the Merritt Misfits U14 volleyball team competed in their home tournament, the Okanagan U14 Girls Super Spike Tournament, and came away with a respectable sixth-place finish out of 16 teams.

The team, playing in the Single A tier, faced stiff competition from across the province, including teams from Vernon, Abbotsford, Langley, and even as far as Smithers.

The Misfits’ journey began with strong performances in the pool play, where they secured a secondplace finish in their division.

“We came in second in our pool, which meant we were in the top half of the playoffs for Sunday,” coach Gian Cavaliere said. “We beat Elevate Everest and Northern Summit, which was from Smithers—definitely the longest drive of the tournament!”

The team’s success continued into the playoffs, where they faced Apex Lightning in the first round.

Despite a valiant effort, the Misfits ultimately lost, with one of their top

players sustaining an injury late in the third set.

“We lost our best player late in the third game, and she had to go to the hospital,” Cavaliere explained.

“She sent the team a video from the hospital bed saying, ‘Go win the next game for me.’ That was pretty cool.”

After the setback, the Misfits played their next match against the Raptors. Although they won the first set, they couldn’t maintain momentum and eventually lost 16-14 in the third.

Despite the loss, Cavaliere remained positive about the team’s growth.

“The girls are really coming along. I see them taking leadership roles, setting up plays, and improving every game.”

The Misfits’ sixth-place finish reflects their ongoing development in a highly competitive field.

Cavaliere emphasized the importance of progress over results.

“We’re such a new program still, and we’re definitely one of the smallest clubs in terms of city size,” he noted. “But we’re hanging with some of the best teams out there,

and that’s exciting for us. It means we’re on the right track.”

With the next tournament scheduled for March 1 in Abbotsford, the team is looking forward to continuing their growth. However, the injury to their key player remains a concern.

“She’s probably out for a couple of weeks, but we’re going to keep pushing forward,” Cavaliere said. “The goal is to keep improving, stay competitive, and see how we do in regionals and provincials.”

Despite the challenges, the Misfits are developing both as athletes and as a team.

“Winning and playing volleyball are secondary to creating positive, impactful athletes,” Cavaliere said. “The girls are supportive of each other, and that’s what really matters in the end.”

PHOTO: MERRITT SNOWMOBILE CLUB

Merritt Snowmobile Club hosted their annual chili run over the weekend.

PHOTOS: MOCCASIN HOCKEY TOURNAMENT

Merritt Misfits U14 clinches sixth place at the Super Spike Tournament that happened in Merritt over the weekend.

SUSTAINABLE ARTISTS RECEIVE PLATFORM

reporter@merrittherald.com

Artists in Merritt got an opportunity to showcase their work as the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council (NVCAC) had their first reception for the Art of Fibre exhibition.

The exhibition featured pieces from 13 artists, all featuring use of handmade quilted pieces.

The goal of the show, curated by NVCAC volunteer Astralis Snee, was to show how fibre art can be weaved into a narrative of sustainable clothing practices.

Snee said the exhibitions and the arts council are great platforms for artists of all kinds to get engagement on their work.

“The Art Gallery has a big significance in the city, despite it’s small space, because it shelters the hopes and it gives visibility to the artists,” they said.

“It’s a platform that ensures them that they’re going to be noticed.”

One of the artists featured in the Art of Fibre exhibition was fresh on the scene.

Marilyn Kelly made her artistic debut during the showing. She made hand-felted bowls that used natural patterns in their designs.

When making the designs, Kelly drew on the places she has lived and her experiences.

She used Vancouver’s beaches as inspiration for one of her bowls, felting it with a pattern that showed the sun reflecting off the water.

Other times she would experiment with colours and then create the theme.

Since starting felting classes with NVCAC last year, Kelly has fallen in love with the hobby.

“(felting) sort of resonated with me. I started buying wool and playing around with it, and I just love making this art form. And now I just can’t put it down, I just keep felting all the time,” she said.

“It’s one of those very relaxing art forms that just kind of takes away from everything.”

When creating the exhibition, Snee wanted to make sure artists were able to express their vision.

Cards were placed around the walls of the exhibition including quotes from the artists.

“We just started with a different form where we can allow the artists to express a little more about their vision,” Snee said. “I hope that with

the little signs that I’m trying to incorporate, that people can engage a little bit more with the artists, and that what they’re (the artists) doing resonates with them.”

As sustainability is at the forefront of the show, many of the pieces were made using repurposed fabric.

Some of the art included a quilt made in the style of a landscape painting, upcycled garments and knitted bowls.

“Creativity with fibre art, is just what you could imagine with different crafts,” Snee said.

“You can create so much, from the creations to garments to napkins we have, there’s so much versatility.”

One of Snee’s favourite pieces from this exhibition was a vest made by Mischelle Pierce.

The vest, which was Pierce’s mother’s, was upcycled and embellished with needle felting, creating flower and sun patterns.

“It’s completely different from what it was before. It has a unique signature,” Snee said.

They said a lot of the fabric used in these pieces would have been thrown away if they hadn’t used it.

“Instead (it is) repurposed, and they have a new life, a new concept.”

(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

CLASSIFIEDS

Inlovingmemoryof Gary BrockMcConnell

September1,1934-February9,2025

Itiswithheavyheartsthatweannouncethe passingofGaryBrockMcConnell,wholeftu peacefullyonFebruary9,2025,attheageof90.

BornonSeptember1,1934,Garylived afullandfruitfullife, markedbydedication,resilience,andanunwaveringcommitmenttohisfamily. Throughouthisyears,hecontributedhistalentsandworkethicto avariety ofindustries,includingforestry,construction,andpipelines.ThroughGary’s labour ’s hebuilt,notonlythefoundationsofmanyprojects,butinstilledinhis familythestrongvaluesofhardwork,integrity,andperseverance.

Gary’s proudestaccomplishmentwasthefamilyhecherished.Heissurvived byhisbelovedwife,MarionRose,withwhomhesharedmanyyearsoflove, laughter,andpartnership. Together,theyraisedfourwonderfulchildrenwho carryforwardhislegacy.Hislifewasfurtherblessedwith19grandchildrenand 22great-grandchildren,each atestamenttotheenduringimpactofhisloveand guidance.

Beyondhisstrengthandwisdom,Garywillbefondlyrememberedforhis quickwitanddryhumor.Whetheritwasa well-timedjoke,a cleverremark,or aplayfultease,hehada knackformakingpeoplelaugh—sometimeswhenthey leastexpectedit.Hishumorwasneverflashy, butthosewhoknewhimbestknew tolistencloselybecausehisone-linerswerepuregold.

Garywillberememberedforhisquietstrength,hisstoriesofdaysgoneby, andhisdeepappreciationforlife’ssimplepleasures.Whethersurroundedbythe beautyoftheoutdoorsorgatheredwithfamilyaroundthedinnertable—often sneakingina jokebetweenbites—hefoundjoyineverymoment.

AmemorialtohonorGary’s lifewillbeheldon March1,2025inMerritt,BC.

GravesideService:10:30am,@ PineRidgeCemetery, 1675JuniperDrive ChapelService: 11:30am@ TheChurchofJesusChristofLatter-daySaints, 2451SpringBankDrive

Familyandfriendsarewarmlyinvitedtoattendandcelebratethelifeofa manwhotouchedsomanyhearts.DonationsmaybesenttotheNicola Valley HealthcareAuxiliarydirectedtotheMerrittHospitalinLieuofflowers.

MicheleMaryFrancine Shaw(neeGaulin)

May4,1956 -January22,2025

Itiswithheavyheartsweannouncethepassing ofourbelovedmother, MicheleMaryFrancineShaw (neeGaulin)onJanuary22,2025inMerritt,B.C.

Michelewillbelovinglyrememberedbyhertwochildren, Christopherand Victoria.Michele waspredeceasedbyherbelovedhusband RickShaw(July27/22)andbyhermotherRoseGaulinandbrotherJohn. Michelehad 3grandchildren,Oliver, EvelynandnewbornShiloh.Her brotherRichardandsisterDiane.NieceStephanieandherchildren: Tony, Katie,Sophie,JamieandBruce.NephewJeremeyanddaughterHarmony. Shewillbemissedbyhermanyfriendsandcustomersthatshe surroundedherselfwiththroughoutherlife.She wasawomanofmany talentsandpartofmanycelebrationsinMerrittthroughheryearsofevent planning,partydecoratingandcatering.Mostwellknownforherdecorated cakesanddeliciousbakedgoods.

ACelebrationofLifewillbeheldonMay4,herbirthday, attheLowerNicolaHall,1-4p.m.Allarewelcome.

Administrative Assistant/GuestServices,fulltime: Musthaveadministrativeexperiencerunning abusyoffice.$22-$25/hour dependingonexperience, plus gratuities.

ThoughGaryhasleftthisworld,hisspiritwillliveonintheheartsofallwho knewandlovedhim.Hewillbedeeplymissedbutneverforgotten—especially everytimesomeonedeliversa perfectlytimedjokeinhishonor.

Housekeeping/Food &BeverageStaff: Experienceisanassetbutwilltrain.$19-$21/hourdependingon experience, plus gratuities.Fulltime,part time andcasualpositions.

Pleaseapplybyemailonly corbettlake@gmail.com with aresumeand references.

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting

HOMEMAKER POSITION

DESCRIPTION: Reporting to Social Development Coordinator, the Homemaker is responsible for providing homemaking services to clients.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Homemaking includes:

• General cleaning and organization of rooms, laundry, disposing of garbage;

• Following a schedule;

• Monitoring of members health and/or medications, providing grocery lists, and preparation of food when necessary.

Requirements of Homemaker Position:

• Access to reliable vehicle and current driver’s license

• Criminal Record Checks

• Experience working with First Nation Community

HOURS: FullTime–35hrs/wk

• Grade 12 Education preferred with Food Safe/WCB First Aid Level 1

ReportingtotheSocialDevelopmentCoordinator,theCommunityConnections Navigatorwillberesponsibleforhelpingcommunitymembersnavigatechallengeswhile supportingthewellbeingofindividualsandfamiliesinaholisticmanner.TheCommunity ConnectionsYouthNavigatormustuseacollaborativeapproachwitheachcommunitymember tosupporteachpersoninachievingtheirgoals.

DESCRPTION:

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

Deadline for submissions: February 28th / 2025 at 12:00PM

Please forward resume and cover letter to:

Cynthia Jager, Social Development Coordinator

Email: cynthia@coldwaterband.org

2249 Quilchena Ave, Merritt, BC or 301-230th Street, Coldwater Reserve

LandAct:NoticeofApplicationforaDispositionofCrownLand

•Wages:starting$20to$28

SpecificDutiesandResponsibilities: PerformsalldutiesandresponsibilitiesinaccordancewiththeColdwaterIndianBand policies,standards,andprocedures,andasdirectedbytheFinanceCoordinator.Maintains confidentialityinallmatterstotheaffairsoftheColdwaterIndianBand. 1.Provideinformationandlinkagetoappropriatecommunityservices; 2.Guideandmotivateduringimportantperiodsofdevelopmentintheirwellnessjourney; 3.AcceptreferralsfromCommunity,SocialWorkers,othercommunityservicesandetc.; 4.Outreachandengagementinthewiththecommunity; 5.Developandmaintainparticipantdrivenintegratedwellnessplans; 6.Advocateforparticipants’needs;

Dodds AUCTION

(dependsonexperience& attendance)

•Steadydayshiftwork

•Studentswelcometoapply

•Noexperiencenecessary

TakenoticethatWaterBoyTruckingLtd.fromMerrittBChasapplied totheBritishColumbiaMinistryofForests(FOR),Thompson-OkanaganforanexpansionofanexistingrockquarrysituatedonProvincial CrownLandlocatedoverunsurveyedCrownlandbetweenDistrict Lots4426and4427,KamloopsDivisionYaleDistrict(KDYD).

•Willtrain

FORinvitescommentsonthisapplication.TheLandsfileisFile Number3410347.Writtencommentsconcerningthisapplication shouldbedirectedtotheSeniorLandOfficer,ThompsonOkanagan, FORat441ColumbiaStreet,KamloopsBCV2C2T3.Commentswill bereceivedbyFORuptoFebruary26,2024.FORmaynotbeable toconsidercommentsreceivedafterthisdate.PleasevisittheApplications,CommentsandReasonsforDecisionDatabasewebsiteat http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ formoreinformation.

Beadvisedthatanyresponsetothisadvertisementwillbeconsideredpartofthepublicrecord.Accesstotheserecordsrequiresthe submissionofaFreedomofInformation(FOI)request.Visit http:// www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation tolearnmoreaboutFOI submissions.

7.Supportparticipantstobuildcapacityinareassuchascommunication, self-advocacy a ndrelationships;

SATURDAY,FEBRUARY22ND -8AM (lotsstartclosing)

8.Participatewithteaminprovidingdeliverableactivitiesorinformation. 9.Participateinteammeetings; 10.Maintainaccuraterecords; 11.Otherrelateddutiesasassigned.

RequirementofCommunityConnectionsNavigator

Deadlineforsubmissions:January26th,2024

RestorationBusinessClosure incl. 2-DodgePickups,Chev Van, Enclosed Trailer,Vacuums, Fans,Dehumidifiers,SpecialtyElectronics, DryingSystems,Airless PaintSprayers,AsbestosAbatementEquip., FilterUnits,Heaters,3-DCameras,Scaffolding,Laptop/Desktop Computers,Printers,Desks &Chairs.

LargeSelectionofModern &AntiqueFurniture, AreaCarpets, InteriorDesignItems,Collectablesincl.GretzkyRookieCard,Musical Instruments,Electronics,Beds,High-EndJewellery, Coins, FineSilver Rounds/Bars,Medals,PlusMore!!

•DiplomaorDegreeinSocialWork(otherrelatedfieldswillbeconsidered); •ExperienceworkingwithFirstNationsCommunity; •AccesstoreliablevehicleandcurrentDriver’slicense; •PassableCriminalRecordCheckandDriver’sAbstract; •Ableandwillingtoworksomeeveningsandweekends.

Onlythoseapplicantsselectedforaninterviewwillbecontacted.

LargeSelectionof Tools- Corded &Cordless, Toolboxes,Generator, Welder,Mechanic &Woodworking,NewBoots &Gloves,Ladders, 2005HondaOdyssey Van,PlusMore!!

Viewing -DoddsShowroom -Vernon Thu/Fri(Feb20/21) -8am-4pm

PleaseforwardResumeandCoverLetterto: CynthiaL.Jager,SocialDevelopmentCoordinator,cynthia@coldwaterband.org POBox4600,Merritt,BC,V1K1B8

BC, to consider proposed Bylaw 2843, 2024.

What is ZoningAmendment Application No.BA260, Bylaw2843,2024?

It would considera site-specificzoningamendment of theRL-1: Rural zoneat2182 Settlers Road, Lower Nicola, BC (PID:012-986-194),asshown outlinedinthe adjacent map, to enablelight industrial activities, including ancillary shipping containers, heavyequipment storage,and an administrationoffice onaportionoftheproperty

Allpersons whobelievethattheir interestin property may be affectedby theproposed bylaw shallbeaffordedareasonableopportunity to provideinputat thePublic Hearing. Anyone who wishes to presentat the Hearingvirtually(viaZoom) mustcontact LegislativeServices prior to noonon March4,2025,to arrangevirtualaccess.Anyone may also make writtensubmissionsonthematterof Bylaw2843, 2024(via theoptions below), which must be receivedat our officepriorto noonon March 4, 2025. The entirecontentof allsubmissions will be madepublic and formpartof thepublic recordfor this matter.

HowdoIgetmore information?

Copiesof theproposed Bylawandall supporting informationcanbeinspected from8:30 a.m. to 4:30p.m., Monday- Friday(exceptstatutoryholidays)at ouroffice, from February18, 2025,until1:30p.m. on theday of the Hearing;orplease contactus viaanyof the optionsbelow

The Boardof DirectorsoftheThompson-NicolaRegional Districtgivesnoticethat itwillholda Public Hearing in theTNRD Boardroom, 4thFloor-465 Victoria Street,Kamloops,

MERRITT RODEO’S RICH HISTORY: A LEGACY DATING BACK TO 1934

LAISA CONDE editor@merrittherald.com

The history of the rodeo in Merritt dates back to its first annual stampede in 1934, which was hailed as a triumph when it took place in Voght Park.

The event drew nearly 2,000 attendees, including visitors from as far as Victoria and Calgary. Corrals and chutes had been completed at Voght Park for the occasion and a string of famous bucking horses were brought from Kamloops.

All residents of the Nicola Valley were invited to take part in the stampede parade, which included stage coaches, cowboys, cowgirls, floats and clowns.

Storekeepers decorated their windows, and restaurants offered stampede specials. Wholesale saddleries and such contributed to the prizes.

Pioneer families took a particular interest in the reunion, and many oldtimers gathered for the occasion.

The Nicola Valley Stampede program included the usual events, and some that RODEO TOWN: continued on page 23

PHOTO NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

A photo from the Merritt Stampede in 1940 shows a decent crowd watching a cowboy hold on its horse.

PROUDPARTTOBEOFTHE NICOLA VALLEY SINCE1998

“MERRITT HAS ALWAYS BEEN A RODEO TOWN”

TOWN: continued from page 22

are no longer seen.

Back in the day, organizer Zack Walker faced skepticism but was ultimately celebrated for the rodeo’s success.

The rodeo continued with success until 1938, when the Second World War started. It wasn’t until 1959 that it was reorganized again by the Nicola Valley Riding and Roping Club and run by them.

Until 1966, when Ted Spencer took over the rodeo and ran it privately, together with volunteer help from the former organization and community.

By this time, what had started as an amateur rodeo had grown bigger and better, attracting more and better cowboys.

The rodeo went from one to two to three days under Spencer and was moved to Labour Day weekend.

Then in 1969, Spencer was killed in an accident and it seemed for a time that the rodeo would fold. However, Spencer’s wife, Larien, turned the organization over to the community.

Soon after, the Nicola Valley Rodeo Association was formed.

The group renamed themselves Nicola Valley Memorial Rodeo Association soon

after and announced plans to build a new rodeo arena.

Many organizations and individuals became involved in the project. Much of the material was donated and ranchers even turned over their hired help at intervals throughout the haying season to finish the job.

The new rodeo arena was a great success and in the years following, the downtown businessmen started to catch the western spirit of the rodeo.

In the mid ‘70’s, the rodeo went back from three days to two days as faithful volunteers wearied and asked for more support.

Over the years, the rodeo evolved, expanding its offerings and solidifying itself as a major event in Merritt and in the Nicola Valley.

Deeply rooted in the Nicola Valley’s ranching heritage, the rodeo continues to celebrate the traditions of the region, paying tribute to the cowboy way of life.

Many of the local ranching families who participated in early rodeos still have a presence in today’s event, ensuring a strong connection to the past.

“Merritt has always been a rodeo town,”

Johnny’s on the Rez was founded in 1998 by Deloris and Johnny Jackson, along with their business partner Don Moses. From the beginning, they built the business with a deep commitment to their community. Located on the Shulus Reserve near Merritt, the store has become a trusted local hub, offering essentials like groceries, fuel and freshly made food. More than just a business, Johnny’s on the Rez reflects the founder’s dedication to supporting and uplifting their neighbours.

Johnny and Deloris raised their family here, instilling strong values of leadership and service—values that continue to be reflected in their children, including Stuart Jackson, who currently serves as Chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band. Though Don Moses passed away in 2016, his contributions to the business and community remain an important part of its history. Their shared legacy lives on in the store’s welcoming atmosphere and its continued role in serving the people of the Nicola Valley.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THE YEARS!

DAILY SPECIALS MONDAY TO FRIDAY!

Hours: Mon. to Fri.: 6 am - 9 pm, Weekends & Holidays: 7 am - 9 pm

PHOTO NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

This picture from the collection of the Nicola Valley Museum & Archives shows Eddie Murdock at the Merritt Stampede bucking his horse.

RODEO

TheHis tory of MerrittHomeHar dware BuildingCentre: ALOCALLEGACY

Riders entertain big crowd at Merritt Rodeo

MerrittHomeHardware BuildingCentre hasbeen acornerstoneofthecommunity fordecades,evolvingfroma family -owned businessinto atrustedname forbuilding suppliesandhomeimprovement.

EARLYBEGINNINGS

Thestore’s rootstracebackto1975whenPeterMoyes’sfamilybusiness,Seyom BuildingSupplies,expandedbyacquiringBobMagelConstructionSupplies.Fred Riley, aMerrittlocal,joinedin 1976,laterbecomingmanagerandco-ownerin 1983.

GROWTHANDEVOLUTION

HONOURING TRADITION WHILE EMBRACING NEW ATTRACTIONS

Mary MacGregor, rodeo manager at the Nicola Valley Rodeo Association, said. “We want to keep that history alive while making the event engaging for new generations.”

Today, the rodeo remains a key part of the city’s identity, drawing participants and spectators from across North America.

MacGregor, who has been involved in organizing the event for several years now, emphasized its ongoing growth.

“Certainly, we had great attendance in 2023, but a few fewer people in 2024,” she said. “That’s why we want to give people more to do at the rodeo and an opportunity to come earlier, bring their family, and be entertained before the rodeo starts.”

One of the recent developments includes an expanded Kid Zone, featuring activities linked to the Nicola Valley’s ranching heritage.

“We’re really quite excited about that,” MacGregor said. “We hope families will explore the Kid Zone, dine at the food trucks, or bring a picnic lunch.”

Additionally, slack competitions, which feature contestants not drawn for main performances, now offer more viewing opportunities for visitors.

The rodeo also continues to emphasize professional entertainment and top-tier competition. In 2025, the event will feature Cowboi Cole, trick rider Keely Sutherland, and Roman rider Noémy Courjol. The Merritt Centennials hockey team has also volunteered at the event.

“They were terrific, great volunteers, and so much fun participating in arena events,” MacGregor said.

Another highlight is the bull riding event held in honour of Ty Pozzobon, with special

Overtheyears,the storetransitionedfromCastleBuildingtoAceHardware and Beaver Lumberbefore joiningHomeHardwarein2001, ensuring stronglocalservice withnational resources.Expansionsin2006 and2008addedmoreretailspaceand adrive-throughshed to betterservecustomers.

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT

Owners Peterand Fredhave always prioritizedcommunityinvolvement,supporting localorganizationslike theMerrittCentennialsand Walkof Star sSociety.W itha dedicated teamof30 staff,thestore continuestoprovide expert advice andquality service.

LOOKIN GAHEAD

AsMerrittgrows,HomeHardwareBuildingCentreremainscommitted totop-quality products,personalizedservice,andcommunitysupport—ensuringit remainsa trusted partnerfor year stocome.

“TOP OF CLASS ACROSS NORTH AMERICA” FOR ITS SIZE

TOP OF CLASS: continued from page 24

prizes for contestants. The entire public area remains licensed for alcohol consumption, though organizers have worked to ensure compliance with licensing rules, including an expanded water refill station.

“It’s been a challenge managing visitor expectations,” MacGregor admitted, noting that outside drinks are prohibited under licensing regulations.

The rodeo has also garnered attention from industry professionals. Kynan Vine, a well-known rodeo producer, was impressed with the quality of Merritt’s rodeo, calling it “top of class across North America” for its size.

“I was kind of blown away by that. We’ve been working hard to improve the rodeo and to improve the entertainment value for all the people that come,”MacGregor added. “And to hear that from someone who is so familiar with rodeo production and rodeo quality and entertainment was really very meaningful for us.”

Organizers have also worked on increasing prize money and providing unique, locally made silver prizes crafted by Richard Tenisch.

Sponsorship and community involvement continue to grow, with local businesses eager to support the event. MacGregor also noted the importance of volunteers.

“We do need volunteers for various components,” she said, adding that last year’s efforts went smoothly thanks to a dedicated crew.

A new organizational structure is being introduced for the Rodeo Association, creating three committees focused on rodeo operations, grounds maintenance, and administration.

“We hope this restructuring will make it easier for the committees to do their job and for the directors to manage the overall organization,” MacGregor said.

As the 65th annual rodeo approaches, organizers remain committed to honouring Merritt’s rich rodeo history while continuing to innovate.

“Come on out on Labour Day weekend,” MacGregor urged. “This is a heritage event for Merritt, modernized and up to date, with great contestants, great stock, and great entertainment. It’s great family fun.”

HonouringthePast,Buildingforthe Future:

TheMerritt FuneralChapel

TheMerrittFuneralChapelhasdeeprootsinthecommunity,housed inwhatwasoriginallythefirstchurchinMerritt.Builtin1909as theMethodistChurch,itstoodas apillaroffaithandgathering.The November12,1909,editionoftheMerrittHeraldreported: “Merrittisat lasttohave achurchofherver yown. To theMethodistdenominationwill belongthedistinctionoferectingthefirstchurchbuildinginthegrowing coalmetropolis. Workwasstartedonthenewstructurewith aseating capacityofonehundredandfifty.Itisexpectedthatthenewchurchwill bereadyforoccupancybyDecember1st.”

Overtheyears,thebuildingservedthecommunityinmanyways.More recently,asthehomeoftheMerrittFuneralChapel,itunderwentessential upgradestoensureitcouldcontinuetoservefuturegenerations.

PreservingHistor y, EnhancingService

To maintaintheintegrityoftheoriginalstructurewhileimprovingfunctionality, thebuildingwasliftedtoinstalla properfoundationin2010.Approximately60% oftheprojectinvolvednewconstruction,includingofficespace,casketandurn displays,bodypreparationfacilities,andvehiclestorage.

“Wewantedtoretaintheoriginalcharacteristicsofthebuildingandsaveatleast partoftheoriginalchurch,” saidPaulWright,theowneratthattime. “Merritthas beengoodtous,andwewanttogivebackbyprovidingthecommunitywithan upgradedfacility.”

Whilerenovationswereunderway,MerrittFuneralChapeloperatedoutofa temporar ylocationonQuilchena AvenueacrossfromtheLegion,continuingto offerfullburialandcremationserviceswiththesamelevelofqualityandcare. ThenewlyupgradedMerrittFuneralChapelwassettoopenbytheendofthat year,ensuringthatthishistoriclandmarkremained aplaceofserviceandsupport forthecommunity.

PHOTO KENNETH WONG

Last year’s rodeo marked 64 years of the western event in the Nicola Valley.

tournament marked the

lawn bowling green at the Saturday. —Photo available at Herald Office

bowling green officially opened

at the Complex on officially given by representing Parker, Bowlers and backing made possible. about five the Mertournament in City’s 75th Vernon hand, and

ONCE THRIVING LAWN BOWLING CLUB NOW PART OF MERRITT’S SPORTING PAST

all players, local and out-of-town, mixed to form teams.

Three twelve-end games were played throughout the sunny day, with a Kelowna skip emerging with the most points.

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

pins.

The Jenny Comazzetto rink placed third, with each team member receiving $2.00 and an anniversary pin.

FOUR GENERATIONS, ONE COMMUNITY –COMMITTED TO MERRITT

FOR OVER 60 YEARS, my family has called Merritt home, building businesses and giving back to the community. Today, I’m proud to carry on that tradition as the owner of City Furniture, keeping our roots strong in the Nicola Valley.

It all started in the 1960s when my grandfather came to Merritt in search of new opportunities. Since then, our family has run various businesses, always focused on serving the community. Now, four generations later, we’re still here, deeply committed to the values of small-town life.

Jack Mitchell and third Emil Finnigan of Merritt, with lead Eleanor McGulvery of Kamloops, captured the new 75th anniversary trophy, plus individual trophies and $3.00 each.

Two teams tied for the lowest points and won the booby prize of $1.00 each - Walter Yates Merritt trio and Shirley Hutchinson, a Vernon skip, and her players.

Lawn bowling, a historic pastime in Merritt, has seemingly reached its end. In the past few months the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives have been receiving old trophies and memorabilia from Merritt’s lawn bowling club.

The old trophies include things like the Gillis Cup, with names of all of its champions plated onto the silverware.

I’ve been with City Furniture for over 30 years, working hard to make it a trusted name in home furnishings. Now, my daughter, Jenna, has joined me in leading the business, ensuring its strength for the future. Raised here in Merritt, she shares my belief in the power of community, and I’m incredibly proud to have her by my side every day.

But we do more than just run a business—we believe in giving back. Through City Furniture, we support local groups, charities, and community projects. My wife, Brandy, and I take great pride in being part of this incredible community, offering our support whenever we can.

The second place team was skipped by Katerini Giles of Kamloops, with third Ann Gerrie of Kamloops and lead, Margaret Hogg of Merritt. They each received $2.00 and 75th anniversary

A great time was had by all, and many positive comments were made by visitors regarding the local hospitality as well as the fíne lawn bowling club and greens here.

As of this year, It’s been 100 years since Merritt’s lawn bowling club was first formed in 1925.

The finishing of the lawn bowling green that year and its subsequent competitions meant it was one of the first competitive sports in the city’s history.

Submitted by Bea

Lecompte

In 1928, they would even take first place in the BC Interior Lawn Bowling annual championship.

WIthin the city, they would play domestic matches in tournaments such as the Gillis Cup.

For me, Merritt isn’t just where we work—it’s home. I’m proud of what my family has built and grateful for the support of the people here. From my grandfather’s hard work to the next generation stepping up, we’re committed to Merritt for years to come.

"I Jim Irvine is now the sole owner of Spaner & Webb Men’s Wear... so he is offering a Summer Celebration!!

According to records from the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives, the lawn bowling club received a high amount of public engagement when it first opened. During the time of popularity during the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s, the club even had a weekly newsletter to update the public. Trophies like the Gillis Cup seemed to have a litany of competitions being played for its honour during this time as well, with a good amount of championships imprinted on it happening during this time period.

Less than a decade later, near the end of the 1940’s, the club’s popularity would begin

official opening of Merritt's

PHOTO : MERRITT HERALD

The July 23, 1986, edition of the Merritt Herald highlighted the official opening of the lawn bowling green at the Senior Citizen Complex on Jackson Avenue.

PICKLEBALL CLUB NOW OCCUPIES LAWN BOWLING’S SPACE

PICKLEBALL CLUB: continued from page 26

its slow decline.

A 1951 article from the museum’s archives show that public perception of the sport had already begun to change. People were now perceiving it as an “old person’s sport”.

To counteract this and regain some of their popularity, the club established a commercial league. There, local companies would play against each other. It was an attempt by the club to attract younger players.

In the long-term, this didn’t seem to work.

As the years went by, mentions of the lawn bowling club in local media became increasingly scarce.

As of today the once-thriving club no longer exists, with the handful of former members left have all aged out of playing.

Replacing it comes a new sport that has rapidly gained popularity in North America.

The pickleball club has been using the space of the lawn bowling club at 2050 Merritt Ave. since they came to a lease agreement with the city in 2021.

The Merritt pickleball club has taken over the building and is looking to clear the space.

Originally, the pickleball club was supposed to share the clubhouse’s lease between them and the lawn bowling club.

Paul Willms with the Merritt Pickleball Club said that due to all of the members of the lawn bowling club aging out of playing age, the club has essentially stopped.

“We have taken over the clubhouse for the lawn bowling club because they have more or less stopped,” he said. “They’ve aged out. I don’t know if that’s proper terminology, but there’s nobody lawn bowling.”

Willms said, while the pickleball club was at first open to share the lease with the lawn bowling club, when negotiating, they found that the lawn bowling club had no interest in sharing it.

“They weren’t interested in any lease because there were just, like, four people left,” he

DONATED TO MUSEUM: continued on page 28

PHOTO : NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

Here is another picture of the opening day ceremony of the Lawn Bowling Green located on Jackson Avenue.

MERRITT’S LAWN BOWLING HISTORY DONATED TO MUSEUM

DONATED TO MUSEUM: continued from page 27

said. “We hoped that the lawn bowling would continue, but it hasn’t.”

The final draft of the lease states that the pickleball club is responsible for storing the old lawn bowling equipment.

Since then, the lawn-bowling club has left their trophies and equipment in the hands of the pickleball club.

Rather than the trophies sitting in the storage room forever, the pickleball club wanted to put them somewhere they would be more appreciated.

“They agreed to donate them to the museum, which is good, right? Because there’s pictures and it’s really neat. It’s an old history of seniors playing sports in town.”

According to Paul, the pickleball club wants to give some of the leftover bowling equipment to other communities whose lawn bowling clubs are still operating.

Trudy Geill, former board member of the lawn bowling club said she’s glad the museum has the memorabilia and that a new club is using the space.

“We’re glad someone has taken the space over,” she said.

She echoed the sentiment that the space wasn’t worth keeping for the club.

For one there weren’t enough people playing to justify keeping the space. In the club’s final days, there were only five members, four of them being regulars.

“And so many of them were older people, and they passed away,” Geill said about the club’s former members.

She also said the club’s lawn wasn’t being taken care of, to the point where members were questioning if it was worth paying for.

“When we started it was more like a turf, a green turf,” she said. “(Now) It was more like a parking lot than a lawn,” she said.

She said when the former groundskeeper for the property retired maintenance went downhill.

But since the pickleball club has taken over, Geill said she’s happy to see the space be used for sporting still.

“There was a time where we would’ve said no way (to giving up the space), but now we have to.”

STEPBACK I IN TIME

attheBaillieHouse.Constructedin1913byCosomA.Bigney, thehousewasoriginallybuilt towelcomehismail-order bridefromEngland.However,sheneverarrived,andBigney remainedunmarried,passingaway in1933.

In1938,the propertywasacquiredbyblacksmithMelville Baillie,whosefamilyoperateda successfulblacksmithbusiness onthe premises.TheBailliefamilycontinuedtoresideinthe houseuntil1990,whenJohnBaillie,knownasMelvilleJr., passed away

Today,theBaillieHouseservesas ahubfor visitors andlocals, offeringfreeinformation,refreshments,gamesandtoursinthe summer.Thetoursareespecially popularwith groups lookingto findaglimpse of potential paranormalactivity

YourHometown HospitalitySpecialists

Fornearly100 years,TheGrandPubandGrillhasbeena cornerstoneof Merritt’shospitalityscene,servingas agatheringplaceforlocalsandvisitors alike. Originally establishedint heearly1900s,t hepubhaswitnessedt he town’s evolutionwhilemaintainingits welcomingatmosphereand rich senseofhistory

In 1996, theEganfamilypurchased theGrandandtransformeditinto atrue neighborhoodpub,ensuringit remained ac herishedlandmark in thecommunity. With at houghtfulrenovation, they embraceditshistoricalroots,creatinga warm andinvitingspacet hatreflects apioneer-era ambiance.

Theblendof rustic charmandmodern comfor tmakes TheGrand aone-of-a-kinddestinationfor thoselooking to enjoy

www.facebook.com/GrandPubGrill/

PHOTO : NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

Three people lawn bowling with Dr. Williams’ house in the background across Nicola Avenue.

THE GLACIAL LEGACY: HOW ICE SHAPED THE THOMPSON PLATEAU’S LANDSCAPE

MURPHY SHEWCHUK CONTRIBUTOR

If you drive slowly up the Douglas Lake Road from the junction with Highway 5 at Nicola Lake just as the morning sun lights the hills you will see a segment of the physical history of the valley that dates back more than 100 centuries.

Across the valley to the north, the morning shadows accentuate the shorelines of two ancient lakes that once filled the valley from ridge to ridge.

The lower shoreline is visible behind the red-painted buildings of the “Home Ranch” while the upper shoreline can be seen as you approach BC Hydro’s Nicola substation.

During the last period of glaciation, which ended some 12,000 years ago, almost all British Columbia was covered by massive sheets of ice, often reaching DISCOVERING: continued on page 30

Weworkwithsmallbusinessclients, ruralfolk,farmersandranchers, andparticipantsintheresourcesector oftheInterior.

Wehelpclientswiththeir businesses, wills,estates,estateandsuccession planning,plusissuesuniquetotheranching andresourcesectorsofB.C.’s Interior.

PhotoCredit:MikeAnfield

PHOTO MURPHY SHEWCHUCK

A photo taken by Murphy Shewchuck shows the ancient shorelines on the hillside.

DISCOVERING THE HIDDEN REMNANTS OF GLACIAL LAKE HAMILTON AND MERRITT

DISCOVERING: continued from page 29

thickness in excess of 1,500 metres. Only the highest peaks escaped the grinding action of this flowing mass of destruction. The Thompson Plateau region was ripped open and reformed, leaving scars that the dry climate and open grasslands have preserved.

The many north-south lying chains of lakes indicate the direction of the ice movement.

Drumlins and eskers, side and front moraines, and erratics such as the huge boulders in the open fields near the north end of Stump Lake, mark where the ice melted, depositing its heavy load.

The first major lake to form in the Nicola Basin as the glaciers began to melt was Glacial Lake Quilchena. It reached an elevation of approximately 1000 metres above sea level and drained southward into the headwaters of Otter Creek near Aspen Grove. Shore features of this ancient lake are only visible in a few locations.

Glacial Lake Hamilton was formed when the ice plug retreated in the Salmon River Valley permitting eastward drainage through the Douglas Plateau.

This lake was only about 70 metres lower than Glacial Lake Quilchena, but some of its features are still visible in the form of the previously mentioned shoreline, and terraces on the north slope of Mount Hamilton, southeast of Nicola Lake.

The last of the giant glacial lakes was Lake Merritt. It was formed when the ice melted out of the Campbell Creek Valley to the north and allowed the meltwater to drain into the Thompson Valley east of Kamloops. The lake level was restricted by a hard layer of bedrock located between Stump and Napier lakes, alongside Highway 5A.

A significant canyon was carved into the reddish rock as Glacial Lake Merritt spilled over this outcropping. As the warming climate forced the giant ice sheet northward, the last ice plug melted out of the northwestern (lower) reaches of the Nicola River,

StuwixResourcesJointVenture:

ALeg acyofSus tainable Forestry

Foundedin2004, Stuwix ResourcesJoint Venture.is a100%Indigenous-ownedandoperated forest management companybasedinMerritt,BC.Establishedthroughthecollaborationofeightlocal FirstNations -theColdwater, Cook’s Ferr y, LowerNicola,Nooaitch,Shackan,Siska,UpperNicola,andUpperSimilkameenBands, Stuwixhasbeen aleaderin sustainableforestmanagement,integratingtraditional Indigenousknowledgewithmodernforestr ypractices. With acommitmenttoenvironmental stewardshipandcommunity prosperity,Stuwixhasbeencertified by theSustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)andcontinuestoplaya leadershiproleinthe region’s forestry industry,ensuringthatlocalforests aremanaged responsiblyforfuture generations.Theirdedicationtosustainabilitynotonlysupportseconomicgrowthbut also respectstheculturalconnectionbetweentheNlaka’pamux andSyilx peoplesandtheland.

As we celebrateourheritage andhistory,werecognizetheimpor tantcontributionsofStuwixResourcesJoint Venturein shapingthe forestry landscape oftheMerritt TimberSupplyarea.

PHOTO/NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES HISTORICAL HOTEL: Located 11 kilometres east of Merritt, the Driard Hotel opened its doors in 1890 and operated until its eventual closing in 1923. The hotel would later be called the Nicola Hotel.

GRANITE AVENUE THE NAMESAKE OF HISTORIC MINING CITY

CAMERON BRIDGE

NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

You may have noticed that the names of a number of the streets and avenues in and around the original part of Merritt follow a bit of a pattern, with the original streets being named after the early settlers to the area, such as Jesus Garcia of Garcia Street, William Voght of Voght Street, and James Chapman of Chapman Street.

The avenues, on the other hand, were named after a number of different communities and places around the Nicola Valley, these being Nicola Avenue, Quilchena Avenue, and Coutlee Avenue as some other examples.

Many of these communities continue to exist, with one example being Granite Avenue.

Granite Avenue is named after Granite City, a gold mining city that sat on the banks of the Tulameen River to the southeast of Tulameen and Coalmont.

It is believed that John Chance discovered gold in Granite Creek on July 5, 1885, setting off an immediate gold rush in the region that saw people flood into the area.

By the end of 1885, there were 60 companies operating in Granite City, with an estimated $90,000 (approx. $2.75 million in today’s money) worth of gold extracted from the area.

Not only that, but by year-end, there were already 200 buildings in the community, with Steve Williams writing in an August 1974 Merritt Herald article that those 200 buildings included 14 hotels and restaurants, nine general stores, three bakers, and three blacksmiths, amongst other businesses.

Granite Creek was not the only creek that produced gold, as Murphy Shewchuk notes

in his book “Coquihalla Trips and Trails,” there was a gold nugget found in Bear Creek that weighed nearly 19 ounces, which today would be the equivalent of over $41,000 in gold.

This rush did provide an economic boom to the Nicola Valley, as for a period of time one of the only routes to Granite City was through a road that went through Nicola, providing the town site with an economic boost as thousands flocked to try to make their fortune.

The rush, however, was short lived, by 1889 gold production had slowed considerably and as a result, many people began leaving the city. In 1907, a fire burnt down most of the city, and while some of it was rebuilt, it would never return to its former glory.

The community continued to survive for many years after the end of the gold rush, On March 31, 1918, the post office that had been opened in Granite City on May 1, 1886 closed.

By the Great Depression, the city had been abandoned, but the economic conditions brought a handful of people back trying to eke out a living, Bill Barlee noted in his book that by the end of the 1960’s, the last of these last miners had left, and Granite City officially became a ghost town.

Today, Granite City is a recreational park through BC Parks with a nearby campground, beach, and hiking trails.

As part of Canada 150, a walking tour was added with placards detailing the history of Granite City. Those placard, alongside a monument, and a handful of old abandoned wooden buildings, are all that remain of Granite City.

The Merritt Herald has been serving the Nicola Valley since 1905, covering local news, community events, and industry developments. Over the years, it has adapted to changes while remaining a trusted source of information for residents.

Now owned by Pacific Coastal Publishing, the Herald continues its commitment to local journalism in both print and digital formats. It remains a vital part of the community, highlighting important issues and celebrating local achievements.

PHOTO : NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

Pictured is Jack Briggains Hardware Store in Granite City, circa 1890.

THE CONAYT FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY, Est. 1968,

For more than five decades, Conayt Friendship Society has been a gathering place—where culture is celebrated, friendships are formed, and support is found. Born from a desire to build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous members, our mission remains rooted in unity, healing, and shared growth.

We carry the legacy of those who came before us: the elders, advocates, and families who built this foundation with determination and hope. Their vision continues to guide us as we work to strengthen our community and honour the cultural richness of the Nicola Valley.

Proud to be part of the Nicola Valley’s history— yesterday, today, and always.

SPECIAL THANK YOU

to the families who were instrumental in keeping Conayt going in its early stages.

• Marie Anderson

• Pearl Clayton

• Larry Bergunder

• Ray Tippey

• The Yorks

Honouring Our Past, Building Our Future Together

Larry Bergunder

Mary Shuter (Coutlee)

Ross Albert and Marie Anderson

Frances making pies

Dennis Francis with wife and son

Traditional Food

Conayt founders, Staff and Volunteers

Ceremonial Presentation of land

Binnie May, Marie Anderson & Pearl Clayton

Archie Blankinship, Ovide Mercredi & Victor York

Traditional

Dennis Francis

Bill John, Beaudon John (Bill’s son), Maryann John, Madeline John (Lanero), and Maggie John (Shuter). Commonly, and affectionately known as BJ & the 3M’s.

Fancy Dancer Jean York