Merritt Herald February 6, 2025 by Merritt Herald

February

MERRITT’S FIRE CHAPLAIN HONOURED WITH CORONATION MEDAL

TY LIM

reporter@merrittherald.com

Recognition to one of Merritt’s most exemplary individuals was given last week as Merritt Fire Rescue’s chaplain Sherry Peterson was awarded the King Charles III coronation medal.

The award and ceremony on Jan. 29 came as a surprise to the chaplain as multiple representatives from all three levels of government were present to witness Peterson receive her medal.

She and the rest of the fire department shook hands with MP Dan Albas, MLA Tony Luck, Kamloops MP Frank Caputo and Mayor Mike Goetz.

King Charles III’s coronation medal, founded to honour the inauguration of the current king, is awarded to those who have made significant contributions to a community and therefore make a great representative of the country.

Peterson has been a valued member of the Merritt community for more than 12 years, as she has provided mental and ACCOLADES: continued on page 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

‘WHAT I DO, I DON’T DO IT FOR ACCOLADES, SO THIS IS A HUGE HONOUR THAT I DON’T TAKE LIGHTLY’

: continued from page 1

spiritual support to the fire hall and the people of Merritt.

Her work was no better exemplified than during the 2021 floods. At the time of the disaster as many people were losing their homes and even lives, the chaplain was able to offer spiritual comfort.

She also had the chance to work with Emergency Support Services, notably during the Lytton fire.

Goetz spoke at the ceremony, recalling the first time he met Peterson and her work ethic as she was assisting victims of the fires.

“Sherry has been involved in a lot of things, (she) was very instrumental during the floods,” he said. “When I needed someone to be seen or looked at or just needed a shoulder to cry on, I was able to get Sherry.”

Peterson thanked the government for the medal and the rest of the fire hall for their support.

“My job is to encourage them to stay whole, whole in mind, body and spirit. And it’s been my

joy to work alongside them as they’ve developed into the amazing crew they are today,” she said.

“What I do, I don’t do it for accolades, so this is a huge honour that I don’t take lightly.”

Over the 12 years she’s worked at the fire hall, Peterson’s had the opportunity to be the chaplain for multiple firefighter weddings.

She extended her gratitude to the rest of her team.

“She’s one of the members that works tirelessly behind the scenes to provide the support and service so we can provide the support and service for the community,” said Lieutenant Gareth Tilt with Merritt Fire Rescue. “(The role) Widely goes unsung and somewhat unnoticed by the community at-large but not by our department.”

linked to fires, algae and more.

TOURISM DECLINE HITS MERRITT AS VISITOR

NUMBER DROPS 18 PER CENT

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

Merritt is suffering from a decline in tourists according to the newest report from the city’s visitor centre.

In the Baillie House’s latest quarterly count, a significant drop in the number of tourists was recorded last year compared to past statistics.

Through 2024, they found only 16,300 people visited their location on Voght Street and Nicola Avenue to ask for information.

It’s a marked decrease in the number of tourists from the prior year. The decrease in visitors from 2023 to 2024 is an 18 per cent drop with nearly 20,000 visitors recorded in 2023.

The number of people visiting the centre has been in a steady decline for the last few years, as according to the Baillie House reports, Merritt has lost nearly a third of their yearly tourists since 2022.

The decline has seemingly stayed within domestic demographics with the number of foreign tourists staying steady compared to prior years.

Still, the bulk of tourists in Merritt are coming from elsewhere in B.C., as they make up for 71 per cent of tourists.

In the report, Baillie House lists a number of possible reasons for the decline.

One of the main reasons was the bad air quality during the summer.

“The number of visitors from other parts of Canada was in slight decrease because of the fires and our air quality,” the report stated.

Other reasons include a lack of music festivals through the fourth quarter of the year and tourists finding it difficult to make a campsite around the city.

The closure of the laundromat, renovations to the bowling lanes and toxic algae responsible for a swim ban in Nicola Lake were also listed as tourist deterrents.

But the report didn’t solely list detractors to the city. Some features of the Baillie House were able to bring attention to Merritt.

One such item that increased tourism in the city was the visitor’s EV charging station. This was able to draw more visitors with electric cars and allow them to explore the city while they waited for their vehicle to charge.

One of the visitors centre’s plans through 2025 is to increase wages for summer students, who helped run the Baillie House during the busy season last year.

The organization is looking forward to keeping the students and having a good 2025.

PHOTO TY LIM Sherry Peterson has been awarded with the King Charles III coronation medal, a recognition to all the significant contributions she has made to the community of Merritt, especially during the 2021 flood.

PHOTO/HERALD FILE

Baillie House has reported 18 per cent decrease in tourism, possibly

MERRITT RECEIVES $4.85M FOR FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECTS

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

A large amount of funding was given to the City of Merritt by the Province to assist the municipality in its Flood Mitigation Plan.

The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) grant worth over $19 million was announced Thursday, Jan. 30, as Merritt and 38 other communities have received various amounts of money from that funding pool.

“Programs like the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund help support local governments as they prepare the infrastructure needed to help B.C. residents withstand emergencies.

The variety of projects approved across the province gives a hint of the magnitude of work ahead of us to continue building resilient communities,” said Trish Mandewo, president and councillor of UBCM in a statement about the CEPF.

For their share, Merritt received $4.85 million, most of which will go into the construction of an overland water pump station on Voght Street.

The city said the Voght Street pump station is critical in managing water levels during extreme weather events. The pump station will allow for efficient water flow during these conditions which will be used in “reducing the risk of localized flooding”.

“This funding is a critical step for Merritt as we continue to strengthen our community’s resilience to disasters and adapt to a changing climate,” said Mayor Mike Goetz in a statement on the grant.

This is the first grant secured for the pump station which is just one part of a wider plan to secure the safety of Merritt

residents from flooding. Some of the other projects in this plan include a series of dikes around the city’s rivers, natural land conservation and rebuilding and restoration of areas damaged or destroyed by the 2021 flood.

The pump station project will be fully funded by the Province’s CEPF grant which will be paid out alongside the duration of the project’s construction.

“We are deeply grateful to the Province of British Columbia for supporting our efforts to create a safer, more sustainable future for our city,” Goetz said in the statement.

The Province also provided millions in funding for the replacement of the Middlesboro bridge.

“The provincial government has been very fair to us,” Goetz told the Herald.

“Without the provincial help, that bridge would not be repaired. There wouldn’t be people living in those homes over there (Diamondvale Trailer Park) and that dike wouldn’t be repaired.”

As Merritt and the Province continue to work closely to prevent disasters in this community and others in B.C., Mayor Goetz and Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola MP Dan Albas are still seeking more support from the federal government.

The latter will be advocating in the next session of parliament for municipalities of Princeton and Merritt to receive funding from the Federal program the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund which recently had $1.3-billion added to it.

“We’re going to have natural disasters for as long as we’re going to be on this earth,” Goetz said. “It’s time for the federal government to kick in and do your fair share, and that’s what we want.”

PHOTO/CITY OF

A drone image provided by the City of Merritt shows the aftermath of the flooding on Nov. 15, 2021.

NEW MEDICAL EQUIPMENT ENHANCES CARE AT NICOLA VALLEY HOSPITAL

LAISA CONDE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Two new, state-of-the-art medical machines donated by the Nicola Valley Health Care Endowment Foundation (NVHCEF) are already making a significant impact on patient care and hospital efficiency at Nicola Valley Hospital (NVH).

The donation, valued at approximately $150,000, includes a mobile ultrasound machine for the emergency department and a digital portable X-ray machine. Additionally, funds were allocated to purchase food carts for Gillis House. Dr. Duncan Ross, chief of staff for NVH, emphasized how these advanced tools are enhancing the hospital’s ability to diagnose and treat patients quickly and effectively.

“The addition of these machines has already made a huge difference,” says Dr. Ross. “We’re using the ultrasound every day to detect blood clots, organ damage, and other critical issues. It’s especially vital in trauma situations, where having quick access to diagnostic information can be the difference between life and death.”

The mobile ultrasound, which is now a crucial part of the emergency department, helps doctors assess a variety of conditions such as appendicitis in children, deep venous thrombosis, and collapsed lungs. It’s particularly valuable for a hospital like NVH that doesn’t have a CT scanner, providing immediate insights into what may be happening inside a patient’s body.

“The portable ultrasound gives us a first, crucial look at what’s going on, especially in critical care or emergency situations,”

Dr. Ross added.

The donation of a digital portable X-ray machine has similarly revolutionized diagnostics at the hospital. Dr. Ross described the difference between the new digital machine and older equipment as being like the shift from an old flip phone to a modern iPhone.

“While the old machines worked, the new digital portable system is much faster and more efficient,” Dr. Ross said. “Images are taken at the bedside and appear on the screen almost instantly, which saves valuable time in trauma cases and improves patient care.”

The new X-ray equipment has already become a workhorse in the emergency department, being used in at least 70 per cent of call cases. Dr. Ross noted that it has allowed them to increase patient volume, improving service to the local community.

Another key advantage of the digital portable X-ray is its mobility. Unlike older, bulkier machines that were difficult to move, the new machine is lightweight and easy to transport. This has reduced strain on hospital staff, particularly radiology technologists, who previously suffered from back and shoulder issues caused by the heavy equipment.

“Our team is already noticing the difference,” Dr. Ross said. “The new equipment is much easier to move, and we’re all feeling a lot better physically because of it.”

The donation is the latest example of the NVHCEF’s ongoing commitment to supporting local health care. The

EQUIPMENT: continued on page 9

PHOTO/INTERIOR HEALTH

Joanne Easdown, Richie Gage, Mark Bagabuyo, Duncan Ross, Jean Perog, Jerry Sanders and Kathryn Olsen with the new portable ultrasound machine at Nicola Valley Hospital.

NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT

MATT

PUBLISHER AT NORTH SHORE NEWS

Idon’t write columns often. In fact, this might be my first attempt since taking the helm at the North Shore News. But with all the chatter about tariffs lately, it feels like a good time to weigh in. There’s something about this whole “buy Canadian” movement that seems worth a closer look.

These past few weeks, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has decided it’s time to bring back the Committee on Internal Trade. It’s a body made up mostly of premiers and provincial ministers, and the idea is to come up with ways to “buy Canadian,” strengthening our economy as a result. Trudeau says it’ll happen “as soon as possible.” Sounds fantastic, right?

Meanwhile, Premier David Eby is calling Trump’s tariffs exactly what they are – a fight we didn’t start, but one we’ll face head-on. B.C.’s response? Another strong commitment to a “buy Canadian” strategy. It’s a good instinct. It feels like something we should have been doing anyway.

But I find myself wondering: is all this talk of “buy Canadian” really going to amount to more than just words? I can only speak to my industry, but I think we’ve been down this road before, and it’s worth asking – is it just rhetoric, or will there be meaningful change?

Take last year, for example. Premier Eby slammed Meta for blocking Canadian news, but not long after, the NDP made a deal with Meta to ensure important information gets out to users during times of crisis, like wildfires. It’s the kind of information we’ve been pushing to the public for decades – in the North Shore News’ case, since 1969. The odd part? Our industry wasn’t consulted on the deal, even though we’ve been on

BONNIE DIXON Healthy Conversations

The humble oat (Avena sativa) has nourished humans for an astonishing 32,000 years! While related species like Avena byzantina and Avena strigosa are used for animal feed, and Avena abyssinica is exclusive to Ethiopia, Avena sativa is the superstar on grocery store shelves. Most commonly consumed as oatmeal, oats are a versatile and economical staple.

Oats are celebrated for their health benefits, primarily due to their high soluble fiber content—4 grams per ½ cup. This fiber helps control blood sugar, reduces constipation, keeps you full, and even lowers cholesterol when eaten regularly. Preparing oatmeal is simple and adaptable. I enjoy cooking large-flake oats and topping them with raisins or dried cranberries, milk, walnuts, a touch of honey, or

the front lines of this work for years. Meanwhile, Ontario has guaranteed 25 per cent of their province’s advertising budget to local news outlets.

And then there’s the federal government. Newsmedia Canada says Ottawa spent around 11 times more money with just three U.S. tech giants than it did supporting more than 900 local newspapers across Canada. That’s a tough pill to swallow. Especially when you consider that newspapers, in whatever form they take these days – digital, print, or otherwise – now reach more than 90 per cent of the community. We’re more connected to our readers than ever before, and we have the stats to prove it.

But here’s the flip side: local municipal governments, and our local MLAs and MPs, have been the ones leading by example, prioritizing support for local newsrooms. They understand the importance of keeping small businesses running and of keeping vital information within the community. So, kudos to our local mayors, councils, MLAs and MPs for getting it right, for putting their money where their mouth is when it matters most.

Which brings me back to the bigger question: how many other opportunities to buy Canadian are slipping through the cracks? If our governments are serious about this, it’s time to go beyond the rhetoric. It’s time to put real effort and resources into supporting Canadian businesses – small and large. We need them to set the tone, to lead by example, and to show that “buy Canadian” is more than just a slogan. It’s something that can actually change the way we do business – and the way we think about what it means to support our own.

Matt Blair is the publisher of the North Shore News – sister publication of the Merritt Herald – and president of the BC & Yukon Community Newsmedia Association.

LET’S MAKE ‘BUY CANADIAN’ MORE THAN A SLOGAN FROM BREAKFAST TO BAKING: HOW OATS BOOST HEALTH AND BUDGET

brown sugar, and a dash of cinnamon. For convenience, some opt for flavored quick-oat packets, though these often contain added sugars. For added protein stir in peanut butter or almond butter.

Beyond traditional bowls of oatmeal, oats can enhance your diet in countless ways. Think oatmeal muffins, pancakes, cookies, granola, scones, or savory dishes like pilafs. You can choose between oat groats (whole oats), rolled oats (steamed and flattened), or quick oats (processed further). I make oat flour and use it for extra fiber in baked goods.

Concerned about gluten? Gluten-free oats are widely available. For those who prioritize organic options, certified organic oats are worth considering.

Oats are nutritious and budget-friendly—a fantastic choice for a healthy breakfast, snack, or dinner side dish. Incorporating this ancient grain into your routine can boost your health while keeping your wallet happy.

BLAIR

FOUNDATION TO FLOURISH

tion that can sustain a flourishing community comes from the access to immunization, good nutrition, and education.

Assistance Envelope in Budget 2025 by an additional $650 million annually to strengthen that understructure.

now, more than ever, important for our country to continue on with its legacy of global leadership, championing the health, education, and rights of people around the world.

I cannot imagine how different my life would have been if I were not given the opportunity to learn. Without it, I wouldn’t have discovered my drive for advocacy and making a change. Without it, I wouldn’t have discovered my life’s purpose.

How many individuals are denied this fundamental right? Far too many. I cannot and will not be a bystander. I encourage you to join me in speaking up for

ART-TASTIC!

This week’s submission is by Thanumi Thasanga Jayasinghe.

Community members, teachers and students...

Submit your artwork to newsroom@ merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured in print each week!

Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Do you believe more affordable housing is needed in our community?

Have your say at merrittherald.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Should Indigenous leaders be included in developing Canada’s response to threatened U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods?

HOSPITAL ER COSTS

I applaud Mayor Goetz for his diligence and wish him the best in representing the extraordinary ($207,000 and counting) costs the BC goverment, through Interior Health, is forcing Merritt taxpayers to pay for their inefficiency.

Lets now see what, if anything, Mr. Luck will do to represent us at his first challenge.

Well done Mike. Let the citizens of Merritt know what we can do to support you; please. We’re behind you.

– Darch Oborne Merritt resident

FEBRUARY

7, 1979

STOCK CAR CLUB FORMED

The Nicola Automobile Racing Association (NARA) is “practically formed”, said Roger Haller. The association is sending in its application form to Victoria to become incorporated under the Societies Act.

FEBRUARY 7, 1968

NEW INDUSTRY FOR MERRITT

A new industry went into production officially in Merritt last week, with its headquarters in the former European Car Repair building, situated at 1451 May Street.

Del Sauders and Ralph Daniels, both of Merritt, have become partners in Price Industries Limited, a company which produces a combination refuse can and retainer, the first of its kind to be produced anywhere in Canada.

those whose voices have been silenced.

– Bernice Ko Vancouver resident

‘THIS EQUIPMENT WILL HELP THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE EVERY YEAR’

Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to raising funds for the health needs of the Nicola Valley. Richie Gage, a member of the NVHCEF, expressed the Foundation’s pride in helping equip the hospital with this cutting-edge technology.

“We are thrilled to support Nicola Valley Hospital in this way,” Gage said. “All the money we raise stays within the community, and it’s fantastic to see how this equipment is already benefiting the doctors, staff, and most importantly, the patients.”

Mark Bagabuyo, manager of clinical operations at NVH, echoed Gage’s sentiments, praising the impact these donations will have on patient care across the region.

“This new equipment will help thousands of people every year, especially those in underserved areas of the valley. We’re deeply grateful for the Foundation’s ongoing support.”

The NVHCEF’s president, Jean Perog, has been involved with the Foundation for several years and has witnessed firsthand the positive effects of its fundraising efforts. Jean, who lives with Wilson’s disease, has a personal connection to the healthcare system and is passionate about helping improve services for others in the community.

“Health care has played an important role in my life, and I want to give back,” says Perog, who is recovering after suffering a stroke last summer. “The quick response I received during my stroke saved my life, and I want to ensure that others in our community have the same level of care when they need it most.” Since its inception, the NVHCEF has raised nearly $3 million to support health care in the Nicola Valley. The Foundation has provided funding for a wide range of medical needs, from equipment purchases to supporting local health-related charities. Perog is proud of the community’s generosity and the Foundation’s ability to make a lasting impact on local health care.

“Our community is incredibly generous,” she says. “We want to continue supporting the health care needs of the Nicola Valley so that everyone in the region has access to the best possible care.”

With the new ultrasound and portable X-ray machines now in use, Nicola Valley Hospital is better equipped than ever to handle emergencies and provide timely, high-quality care to its patients. The donation from the NVHCEF highlights the power of community support in enhancing local health care services, ensuring that both patients and medical staff in the Nicola Valley continue to receive the best possible care.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & ELECTION OF OFFICERS

February 12, 2025 at 6:00 pm Ska-lu-la Workshop 1775 Coldwater Avenue New Members Welcome

PLUMBING &HEATING

PHOTO/INTERIOR HEALTH

Joanne Easdown, Jerry Sanders, Jean Perog, Duncan Ross, Alayna Kerr, Kathryn Olsen, Mark Bagabuyo, Allen Peters and Richie Gage with the new portable x-ray machine at Nicola Valley Hospital.

EQUIPMENT: continued from page 5

MERRITT TO HIKE BUS FARES AND RESTORE PRE-FLOOD ROUTES

Major reworks to Merritt’s public transportation system will be implemented in the coming months.

In two motions passed unanimously by council - that have been touted as being long overdue - the City of Merritt will be increasing the price of bus fares as well as revert to the pre-flood transit routes.

Inflation has led to rising costs in the operation of most city services. According to a costs and revenue forecast by BC Transit, it will cost over $950,000 per year to run the service in 2028.

Because of this, BC Transit is recommending the City of Merritt to increase its bus fares before the costs become too much to handle.

City council was also concerned that the cost-deficit, which if left unchecked, would put more strain on the city’s tax-payers.

“Not raising some of the prices in over (eight) years is the issue. It’s something that needs to be looked at more than every (eight) years because now all of a

sudden it becomes this big deal,” said Mayor Mike Goetz in a committee of the whole meeting on Jan. 7.

The last transit-fare review took place in 2021, where no changes to ticket prices were made. Prior to that was a review in 2017 when transit fares increased for the first time in 10 years.

Cost of transit system operations are forecasted to increase yearly.

The only reason municipalities were able to handle the costs over the past five years is because portions were covered by BC Transit’s Safe Restart Funding program which was put in place from October of 2022 until April 1, 2025.

The program was put in place to provide assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Expiring soon, BC Transit has advised many municipalities to increase the rates of their bus fares as they will no longer be providing help.

Currently, the rate for a single-ride ticket is $2 and $42 for an adult monthly pass. There are some discounts for students,

CHANGES: continued on page 11

EXPRESSIONOFINTEREST

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PHOTO/HERALD FILE

City council approved fare increases to offset transit costs. Pre-flood routes are also being restored.

CHANGES COMING INTO EFFECT IN UPCOMING MONTHS

CHANGES: continued from page 10

seniors and tickets bought in bundles of 10 which will apply to the price increases as well.

Before the changes were officially voted on, city council had the opportunity to look through three options recommended by BC Transit that would help cover the operational costs long-term.

It was agreed upon that the third option, which would provide the best balance between user-fee and city-cost, was the best path for the city to take over the next three years.

In this plan, the price of single-ride tickets will jump by 50 cents this year until 2027, which it will then increase by another 25 cents.

Monthly passes for adults will increase by $8 the first two years before jumping another $5 in the last year of the plan.

Despite the financial situation needing action to rectify its course, Merritt’s current level of revenue generated through transit fare compared to its operation costs is well above average compared to other municipalities.

Revenue generated from fares currently makes up 17 per cent of the operating costs related to transit services. Another 32 per cent is made up by the city through property taxes. Over half of the costs are covered by the Provincial services. Still, the increase was deemed necessary. The increase in price is suspected by BC Transit to lead to a drop in ridership.

As the price increase forecasted $10,000 to $14,000 in potential revenue, the city could lose up to 15 per cent of its ridership over the next three years.

“It’s important to know how this is going to affect low-income families in our ridership,” Coun. Manuel Olguin said during the meeting, expressing his desire to see a plan from BC Transit for ridership retention.

The change could be coming in just a few months with the earliest it can be put into effect being April 1.

Also unanimously passed by city council, the City of Merritt will revert to its previous bus routes, hosted by BC Transit, that were changed during the 2021 floods.

Due to the 2021 flood destroying the Middlesboro Bridge, the transit routes 2 and 3, which ran through the Coldwater west avenue and Diamondvale neighbourhoods respectively, were merged together

into a new path called route 23.

The post-flood route had service through the Coldwater west avenue removed. During this time, to get to Colletville, an area that was originally served by route 2, the bus would have to cross the Coldwater River via the Houston Street Bridge then drive through a stretch of rural land on Midday Valley Road which passed by Barkman Concrete’s plant.

Using ridership data collected by BC Transit in Merritt, it was found that the bus route only picked up one person on Midday Valley Road through the 99 day period the study was conducted.

“You picked up one person in three years at Barkman (concrete plant), it doesn’t seem like it’s really a good deal of money,” said Mayor Goetz.

This combined with the lack of service to popular areas of town were the main reasons for the return to the previous route.

These areas include Bob’s MiniMart in Diamondvale and the western stretch of Coldwater Ave. The former of the two could still be reached by route 23, but travellers would need to ride out a long detour through Collettville and back or walk multiple blocks through Diamondvale.

“With winter, that can be challenging, or with mobility (issues),” BC Transit said about passengers currently trying to go to Bob’s MiniMart.

Coun. Yvette Baxter, who works at Merritt Secondary School, said students there are clamouring for service through their portion of Coldwater Ave.

“(Students) and even teachers that take the bus in the morning, they said, ‘can we go back to the old route so that way we can get off instead of walking through the slush and snow?’” Baxter said.

Routing with route 23 could theoretically be extended to cover Coldwater Avenue west, but BC Transit said the expansion would come with an increase in service hours for the operators.

Service to Barkman Concrete’s plant was one of the only major points against returning to the old route. It was discussed amongst council that there could be a possibility for a future change in one of the routes 2 or 3 to accommodate Midday Valley Road.

The changes to the routes could also be coming in the next few months.

NEW FAMILY-FRIENDLY TOBOGGANING EVENT SET FOR FAMILY DAY WEEKEND

LAISA CONDE editor@merrittherald.com

A new winter tradition is set to take off in Merritt as Cecilia Dyck organizes the town’s first-ever tobogganing event on Saturday, Feb. 15.

The event will take place at the town’s popular toboggan hill by Lundbom Lake and promises to be a fun-filled, familyfriendly day with toboggan races, hot food, and exciting prizes, all designed to bring the community together in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Cecilia Dyck, a local music teacher and long-time community member, is behind the event. Her passion for community-building led her to put the event together.

“I just really like community events that the community puts on together,” she says. “I just like providing activities and opportunities that are fun, healthy, and outdoors.”

The tobogganing event is a throwback to a similar gathering Dyck organized years ago in her hometown.

“When I was in my early 20s, I did a small tobogganing event with friends. We had a lot of fun, and I thought, why not try something like that here in Merritt?” she said. “It’s the kind of event our communities don’t usually do, and it’s accessible— tobogganing races don’t need to be expensive like running races or skiing competitions. It’s just about having fun.”

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Lundbom’s popular toboggan hill, which Dyck described as the perfect spot for a day of racing.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Dyck promises a casual atmosphere with food like Smokies, hot dogs, cookies, marshmallows, and drinks like juice and hot chocolate.

“I wanted to do something that, you know, we can have fun and do it and it can be organized, but not like really expensive or anything,” she said.

Prizes have been generously donated by local businesses, with over $600 worth of giveaways. “The businesses have donated well over $600 of prizes. I really want to thank the businesses too. I’m not trying to do this by myself.” Dyck explained.

While the event is aimed at fun, Dyck is encouraging people to register early to help with planning.

“I’ve had tons of people say, ‘Oh yeah, we’re planning on coming,’ but as of yet, nobody’s actually registered and paid. It’s really hard to plan if you don’t have a clue of how many people are coming,” she said. Registration forms are available at the Nicola Valley Arts Council and Breathe Bikes.

Dyck hopes the event will turn into a tradition for Merritt, especially given Lundbom’s excellent toboggan hill.

“We have such an amazing toboggan hill, it’s a really good spot. If this goes well, I’d like to make it a little tradition in Merritt, maybe every Family Day weekend,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be anything major, just a little tradition.”

Participants are asked to bring their own toboggans, though Dyck said it’s a relaxed atmosphere.

“They should bring their own toboggans, and I’m sure people will swap and trade toboggans or whatever,” she said. “It’s not going to be like, really hard and fast rules.”

Whether you’re coming for the races, the food, or just to enjoy the winter weather, this event promises to be a great way to spend the day outdoors on Family Day weekend.

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PHOTO/METRO

New family-friendly tobogganing event to kick off in Merritt during Family Day long weekend.

ANTI-BULLYING Campaign 2025

Standing Up Against Bullying: A Community’s Role in Change

Bullying is not just a schoolyard issue—it extends into workplaces, social settings, and even online spaces. Its effects can be devastating, leading to long-term emotional and psychological harm. That’s why initiatives like Pink Shirt Day and anti-bullying campaigns are more than just symbolic gestures; they are calls to action for communities to stand together against harassment and intimidation in all its forms.

In the Nicola Valley, we take pride in our strong sense of community, but that does not make us immune to bullying. Whether it’s in classrooms, on sports teams, or in social media comment sections, bullying thrives when it goes unchecked. It’s up to all of us—parents, teachers, friends, and community leaders—to foster environments where kindness is valued, differences are respected, and speaking out is encouraged.

Education plays a crucial role in this fight. When children and adults alike understand the impact of their words and actions, they are more likely to think twice before engaging in harmful behavior. Schools, workplaces, and organizations that actively promote

kindness and inclusivity create spaces where people feel safe and valued.

By supporting anti-bullying initiatives and encouraging open conversations, we send a strong message: bullying has no place in our schools, workplaces, or communities. Small actions—standing up for someone being mistreated, offering a kind word, or refusing to spread negativity—can make a significant impact.

As we recognize Anti-Bullying initiatives this year, let’s reaffirm our commitment to making the Nicola Valley a place where respect, understanding, and support are the foundation of our interactions.

•

• Stay Calm & Confident – Bullies often want a reaction. If you can, walk away and don’t engage.

• Use the Buddy System – Stay close to friends or supportive classmates to avoid being targeted.

• Set Boundaries – If safe, respond with a firm “Stop” and walk away.

• Keep a Record – Write down what happened, when, and who was involved. This can help when reporting.

• Avoid Fighting Back – Retaliating can make things worse. Seek help instead.

• Protect Your Online Space – If bullied online, save messages and report them to an adult or platform moderators.

• Find Your Support System – Talk to people who make you feel safe and valued.

• Be an Ally – If you see bullying happening, stand up for others or get help.

• Remember: You are not alone, and bullying is never your fault. Help is always available.

CYBER SAFETY

to log out of social networking sites like Facebook when you leave a computer.

Change your passwords regularly, especially if you think someone else might have them. Don’t share your passwords, even with friends.

If someone you meet online asks to meet you in person, tell a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult

share cell phone numbers or email addresses with people you do not know.

IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS BEING BULLIED ONLINE:

• When you see someone being bullied online, stand up for them.

• Write down or save what you see and when you see it.

• Help the person being bullied understand that they don’t deserve to be bullied. You could do this by phoning them, sending them a private message, email or text, or by speaking with them at school.

• Don’t encourage bullying behaviour by participating in a bullying conversation thread or, “liking” or forwarding a hurtful comment.

FOUR STEPS TO STOP CYBERBULLYING

STOP: Don’t try to reason with or talk to someone who is cyberbullying you.

BLOCK: Use the block sender technology to prevent the person from contacting you again.

TALK: Tell a trusted adult, inform your school, use a help line and/or report it to police.

SAVE: Save any instant messages or emails you receive from the person bullying you, or capture any comments or images that have been posted online.

FACTS

1. 2.

2/3 of youth have faced bullying over their cell phones or online.

Three out of ten bullied students reported missing school at least once during the year because of cyberbullying.

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.

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FOR CONTRACTORS & SERVICE PROVIDERS

Are you in the “need” industry? When people need a service, they need it fast. Make sure they find you first!

The Connector Community Directory puts your business at their fingertips—right when they’re looking for answers.

Be seen where your customers are searching!

FOR SPORTS ORGANIZATIONS

Get in the game! Make it easy for players, parents, and fans to find your team, league, or club.

With a dedicated sports directory section, the Connector helps you grow your membership, keep your community informed, and attract sponsors.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this essential local resource!

Canada’s AGRICULTURE DAY

February 11, 2025

Supporting Local Agriculture: Growing Strong Together

Merritt and the surrounding area are rich in fertile land and hardworking farmers. Let’s celebrate and support the local producers who feed our community!

RANCHERS STAY STRONG IN FACE OF FINANCIAL PRESSURES

TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com

With multiple threats that could reshape the cattle industry, local ranchers want the public to know how much work goes into feeding a population.

While B.C. is a much smaller market for ranching and cattle operations than in Alberta and the rest of the prairies, there are still regions of the province viable grazing land for raising herds of cows.

According to Statistics Canada 4,550 farms in B.C. report they raise some type of cattle of calves. This number has been in decline for years.

Since 2014, 725 farms have stopped reporting cattle as one of their yields.

The number of cattle is the lowest it’s been since 1987.

This is due to a number of factors, said owner of Kane Lake Ranch, John Anderson. His ranch supplies beef to both the local industry in Merritt, as well as being part of a larger operating chain.

He said doing this is not only a good thing for farmers, but it allows him and other ranches to appeal to a wide variety of consumers.

He estimates the number of cattle in the valley to be double or almost triple the population of residents in the Nicola Valley.

So while the number of cattle in the Nicola Valley may be staying steady, Anderson realises a number of threats to the human side of the industry.

He said that ranching is a tougher business than people realize, not only physically but financially too.

“The agriculture business in general, but cattle business for sure, has not been able to keep up with the rate of inflation, and that’s a big deal.”

For one, the number of ranchers could be dwindling, he said. As the last generation of ranchers are starting to age out of the business, new people coming in are finding it difficult to get started.

Anderson said the price of land is a major deterrent to new farmers getting into the business.

“A ranch that was $100,000 to $200,000 three generations ago (would be) now $2.5 million. If you just think of that alone, just that alone, I say the ranch business is a tough business.”

“That in itself, is a pretty big headway to be in agriculture, just the price of land, just to get started.” he said.

One thing new people in the agriculture business have for them is that they are able to lease the land of these retired ranchers and farmers, though what they use the land for is not necessarily cattle related.

With Canadian inflation hamstringing the cattle industry, external factors could make the situation worse.

As the US and Canada go back and forth on putting a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods, Anderson worries this is the next threat to the Canadian cattle industry.

“Tariffs are a border restriction. It means there’s a condition before you can freely trade with the south,” he said. “So that means that everything that we send down there, we either take 25 per cent less for or we add 25 per cent onto it.

In most provinces, trade with the U.S. is vital to the cattle industry. Due to the geographic location of cattle markets, it’s easier and more cost-effective for Canadian ranchers to run their cattle north and south across the U.S. border compared to driving a herd across the country.

Anderson said last year, Canada brought more cattle down to the U.S. than they brought to us.

“We (can) take less money and send it there, or if we’re going to try and add 25 per cent and send it down there then, will they buy it?”

With the market uncertain, ranchers may have to look for alternate means of selling cattle.

He likens this situation to the border shutdown during COVID or the spread of mad cow disease amongst Canadian herds years back.

“(During these times) they (cattle) were worth about 20 per cent the value that they had been a month before,” he said.

He said many ranchers were struggling to keep up with bills during this time.

“You’re still renting a house, still paying for your cell phone, you still gotta eat somewhere,” he said.

If tariffs on Canadian goods in US markets are to be implemented, ranchers could look to foreign markets like Asia, or look more local.

Unfortunately there are drawbacks to looking solely at a local market, Anderson said.

Providing more food for the local market, for example, would take more time and be costlier for him, a price tag which would then have to be passed onto the consumer.

“In order to provide local food there’s a very significant regulatory process to get the animals from our ranch into that local butcher shop,” he said.

AGRICULTURE: continued on page 18

PHOTO TY LIM

The number of cattle in Canada is the lowest it’s been since 1987 according to statistics Canada.

AGRICULTURE: continued from page 17

According to him, regulatory processes have become more complicated in B.C. over the last 30 years.

Typically, Anderson takes his herd to Kamloops for local processing.

But, most B.C. locations are smaller and less efficient than plants in Alberta, he said, leading to a longer process if he wants to stay within B.C.

Statistics Canada lists there were nearly five million cattle on beef operations alone in Alberta. The size has led to high efficiency in the cattle industry in that province. This allows ranchers like Anderson to give them more of his herd at a cheaper rate.

has changed a lot.”

It isn’t something that’s necessarily a bad thing to Anderson. He said it’s good for ranchers to participate both locally and in larger supply chains.

“The bigger supply chain can do things cheaper and so that means people get used to eating that particular taste. So they might come to prefer that in some cases, right? So just because you supply local things doesn’t mean that people want to eat it,” he said.

“Cattle that go into bigger feed yards and eat more grain products, probably their diet has changed a lot.”

— Rancher John Anderson

In turn, it allows for more meat to enter the buyer’s market.

But Anderson said cattle finished in these ways may have a different taste than ones raised on local grass.

“I will say that one thing cattle are by, by their evolution, what they eat here (grass) is what they would have eaten 1000s of years ago,” he said.

“Cattle that go into bigger feed yards and eat more grain products, probably their diet

Despite the hardships, Anderson believes ranchers and farmers can adapt to make more money in these times.

He said adding more processing internally can cut costs and bring in revenue.

Adding their own slaughterhouses or making jerked meat to sell are steps they can take.

“I think the tide has turned a little bit, and now people are becoming vertically integrated,” he explained.

“If you can go from our ranch right through your table, then you’re picking up all the steps and that can add a little bit of profit each step, instead of having just one step, which is at the ranch.”

LOOKING BACK AT THE COW RUSTLERS OF THE NICOLA VALLEY

CAMERON BRIDGE

NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

The act of branding livestock dates back to ancient civilization.

It has always been an easy way to convey ownership over livestock that made it harder to steal and claim as one’s own.

The value of livestock and their products such as milk has always made them a prime target to steal.

While branding and branding laws have made it more difficult, the amount of money that criminals could make from “rustling livestock” has made it a popular criminal enterprise including here in the Nicola Valley.

Rustling livestock started in the Nicola Valley as far back as the mid 1800’s as settlers began to arrive in the Valley.

Cattle were valued not only for their meat, but their milk as well could be traded for other goods.

Horses were also a commonly stolen property, they could be used for their labour or they could also be sold on the black market.

As larger and larger ranches began to operate in the Nicola Valley during the later half of the 19th century and the number of

ranches in the area increased, so too did the number of livestock and in turn the number of cattle rustlers.

The common way that horse rustlers would steal horses, according to Carl Steffans, was they would steal horses from sleeping travellers.

The thieves would wait for travellers to set up camp for the night along the sides of the roads and wait for them to go to sleep.

They would then creep their way towards their tied up horses and make off in the middle of the night.

The two main ways they would profit off of this was they would wait for the victims to make an announcement that their horses were lost and were offering a reward for their return.

The thieves would then offer their services as expert trackers and return the stolen horses and collect the reward. If they never offered a reward they would instead simply sell the horses on the black market.

One of the largest cases of cattle rustling occurred in 1909 at Douglas Lake Ranch, where a large number of cattle were stolen.

However, it was rather unusual compared to other cases as it was a lot of mother cows and

AGRICULTURE: continued on page 21

Douglas Lake Cattle Company

Join us in honouring Canada’s rich agricultural heritage and the hardworking farmers and ranchers who feed our nation! Douglas Lake Cattle Company, one of Canada’s largest and most historic cattle ranches, is proud to celebrate this special day with our community.

What We Celebrate:

•The dedication of farmers and ranchers who sustain our food supply

•The legacy of agriculture in Canada

•Sustainable and responsible ranching practices

As we recognize the vital role of agriculture, we invite you to support local farmers, learn more about sustainable ranching, and celebrate the incredible contributions of Canada’s agricultural industry.

Douglas Lake Cattle Company – Ranching with Tradition, Sustainability, and Passion!

THE HISTORY OF HONOURED

MERRITT DAIRY FARMER

CAMERON BRIDGE

NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

John Blackwell Baldwin was born on Jan. 16, 1856 in England.

In 1888, at the age of 32, he and eight others made their way from England to BC to escort the horse “The Boss” and three

other Clydesdale stallions to Charles Beak who had just started what would become the Douglas Lake Ranch a couple years prior.

Baldwin decided to stay and became a horseman and later foreman at Douglas Lake.

He then met and married Lavina Earnshaw, and the pair would settle on land south of Minnie Lake, with Blackwell working on Beaver Ranch.

Lavina Earnshaw was born on Sept. 25, 1871.

She was the daughter of Byron Earnshaw, the first settler of Minnie Lake and Shinshinelks (anglicised: Amy Raphel) who was a daughter of a Chief near Lytton.

She came from Lytton to the Nicola Valley in 1892 and soon after met Baldwin. The couple had two daughters, Selina (nee Baldwin) (Ragsdale) MacKay and Carrie (nee Baldwin) Fairservice.

The pair moved from Minnie Lake to Nicola in 1905 where they set up a ranch.

By 1910, the Baldwins owned 1000 acres of land. Also, in 1910 he began a dairy business along Nicola Road, about one mile outside of Merritt.

Blackwell ran this dairy for a number of years, and had a number of names, including “Merritt Dairy”, “City Dairy”, and “Blackwell’s Dairy” and proclaimed that they would deliver fresh dairy products like cream and milk twice a week.

In November 1930, Baldwin sold his dairy to J.B. McAvoy, and four years later on July 21, 1934, John Blackwell Baldwin passed away at the age of 78.

At Merritt’s first stampede in August 1934, Lavina Baldwin was honoured among the early settlers of the Nicola Valley and

received a bouquet of flowers from A.E. Howse followed by a re-telling of her life as well as of her recently deceased husband and of her father.

Lavina Baldwin would pass away on July 13, 1945 at the age of 74 and is buried alongside her husband in the Old Pineridge Section.

Blackwell Avenue, across from City Park and Blackwell hill along the Old PrincetonKamloops Highway are named after John Blackwell Baldwin.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

The Blackwell Dairy farm at work.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES Lena and J.B. Baldwin

FOUNDER OF QUILCHENA HOTEL: BUSINESSMAN AND RANCHER

CAMERON BRIDGE

NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

Joseph Guichon was born in Savoie in France on Oct. 22 , 1843.

He left home at 14 to work in Paris where he worked for a few years before leaving and boarding a ship to Liverpool in the fall, 1862.

From there he went to the Eastern United states, down by boat to Panama, crossed Panama by train and then took a boat to San Francisco, then to Portland, and then to Victoria, then crossed over to the lower mainland. In all likelihood, this trip took him over a year to complete.

From there Joseph walked to Barkerville, where he staked out a gold mining claim and worked it for the remainder of the season.

It was extremely hard work that was not financially rewarding, so returned to Victoria for the winter. From there he traveled to Ashcroft where he got work as an irrigator before working as a packer, hauling goods from Yale to Barkerville.

Over the course of the next couple years, Joseph saved his money and bought some cattle and some land in the Nicola Valley.

The land that he owned was near Savona, and he lived on that land for five years before selling it and moving to the south end

of Mamit Lake in 1873, with his brothers Pierre and Laurent pre-empting lots adjoining Joseph’s lot.

In August, 1878, Pierre died, leaving his third of the Guichon’s ranches to Laurent, not long after they would sell the Mamit Lake ranch to Louis Quinville and John Rey.

They then moved to Chapperton lake where they remained for three years, building up their cattle to a total of 1400 and a substantial herd of horses before selling to Charles Beak who would later form the Douglas Lake Cattle Company.

Laurent then moved to New Westminister, but Joseph remained in the Nicola Valley, despite having nearly no money, his only assets being a herd of horses and a registered stallion named Charlie.

He moved to lot 105, east of the Quilchena reservation on the Nicola River in the fall of 1882 from a Mrs. Edward Sullivan with the right to purchase the land in three years.

He managed to rebuild up his ranch, and despite the sudden death of Mrs. Sullivan in 1884, Joseph Guichon was allowed to go through with the purchase and soon after purchased lot 106, and quickly began buying up land all around the Nicola Valley including at Nicola Lake, Courteney Lake

Field, and southwest of the Douglas Lake Reservation.

In 1905, Joseph purchased lot 110 from Ed O’Rourke, the land included a stopping place on the wagon road, a store, stable, community hall, and hotel.

Joseph Guichon would replace the hotel on this property in 1908 which is now known as the Quilchena Hotel. In 1911, Joseph purchased the 10,000 acre triangle ranch.

This brought the total acreage to 38,000 acres, 4,000 heads of cattle, and 500 horses, making him the second largest ranch in British Columbia. He would retire in 1918, handing over control of the ranch to his three sons; Lawrence, Joseph and John, and his four daughters; Anne, Marguerite, Alice, and Virginia.

THE LAST CATTLE HEISTS IN MERRITT WERE SOME OF THE LARGEST

their unbranded calves that had been stolen.

Douglas Lake placed an ad in the Merritt Herald announcing that any tips that led to the thieves being caught would receive a significant financial reward.

Shortly thereafter, an employee from the Goodwin Ranch, who were neighbours of Douglas Lake, came forward accusing the Goodwin Ranch of stealing the cattle and branding the calves.

An investigation was launched and Goodwin was brought to trial, although he was not convicted.

This large trial and investigation did seem to affect the rustlers as this appears to have been one of the last large scale cases of cattle rustling in the area.

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AGRICULTURE: continued from page 18

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLA VALLEY MUSEUM & ARCHIVES

A portrait of Joseph Guichon.

reporter@merrittherald.com

The Coutts-Macarthur family nearly lost everything in the flood. Today they’ve rebuilt it, piece by piece. It’s been almost four years since the destructive flooding of the Nicola River.

The Coutts-Macarthurs, who have a property beside it, were some of the hardest hit by the flood. For a while they had to rely on family for a place to stay, and the food that they ate was not the ones they grew on their farm. This winter, the family can huddle by a fireplace inside their home by

the river, eating waffles their daughter made from scratch and whipped cream made from their own cow.

“A lot of people told me it was going to be better than before. It was hard to believe them then, but here we are,” said

The Coutts-Macarthur family run a self-sufficient farm nestled along the northern part of the Nicola River, a few kilometres south of Spence’s Bridge and almost an hour’s drive north of Merritt.

Michael and Brandie Coutts-Macarther operate the farm with their daughter, Luna and Brandie’s mother.

Brandie herself was born and raised on that land.

Over the course of 15 years, the family built a life for themselves that they call “a slice of paradise” away from most communities. In those days they didn’t even have internet, and their farm was “hidden on the side of the road.”

Still, they had opportunity to interact with a variety of people, a market on the side of Highway-8 to make some money off their goods. They also ran a bistro on their property for a number of years.

The farm grew over the years, adding more gardens, tree yards and animals

alongside their neighbours in the canyon. In that time the Nicola River surrounded their property which was almost on a ledge beside the body of water. To cool down from the summer heat, the family would dive into the river and swim most days.

In 2021, like so many others, their lives were changed drastically by the flood

PHOTO TY LIM

The Coutts-Macarthur family look back on a the impact the flood had on their lives.

PHOTO TY LIM Bedrock around the house’s foundation.

known as the ‘demon river’.

The family were doing their typical day to day chores when it hit; milking cows, chopping wood, and relaxing.

In the November night before the flood, their daughter Luna said she heard strange noises from the river, like it was high water.

Michael found this odd, as high water is usually an event usually common to the spring only. He chalked it up to the fall winds.

His daughter on the other hand, insisted on her stance it was the river.

“She said, ‘No, it sounds like the river. It sounds like high water.’ I was in the bath, and I’m like, ‘Oh, I gotta get out the bathtub.’ And that was the last bath I was in for 14 months here (in their house). I get out of the bath and it’s like, sure enough, the river’s like high water, like it is normally in the spring. But this was November.”

He went down to the his coups near the river banks and took down an electric fence that he knew would get snagged in the typical highwater.

“It was a noisy night,” he said.

“The next morning, we head out there, and we had chicken coops all over the farm, like we had like seven, seven coups and barns all over the place.”

“We’re watching the river rise, and next thing we know, there’s this big garlic, patchy planted, and all the garlic is floating in water. And this has never happened before.”

Eventually, the water seemed to go back into the river and the family tried to go back to their chores.

Soon after, the water rose again, this time flowing into their house.

The family went up to their market on the side of the highway. It’s located on a high-point on their land and it was where they felt they would be safe from the flood.

The morning after, more chaos ensued.

“We got up and looked and where the farm had been, the river was completely covering it, and someone’s huge boat floated by,” Brandie said.

The family eventually tried to leave, but the highway was destroyed and washed away, with concrete blocks from the road floating in the water.

They were trapped. And as the waters rushed into the barns and chicken coups, the animals were on the loose as well.

“We were an island. So the animals would run to one, you know, to one broken section of pavement, and then run back to the other broken section of pavement,” Brandie said.

“Our bull, and Buck, and all our cows and goats were just free, running up and down the highway. We go look up the door, and there’s a bull, like a 1000 pound bull, all over the place, on the loose. It was quite terrifying,” Michael said.

They stayed for a while, but since the family had a child, they had to evacuate the area. Over the next year they would stay on

and off with family in Ashcroft.

The event was traumatising to them, and particularly for Brandie’s mother who went blind in some capacity after the flood.

The family and some of their animals, the cow, goats and house cat, were airlifted out of the region.

“Bet you didn’t know that cows could fly,” Michael said.

After a few months away from their farm, Brandie and Michael found themselves missing their home and wanted to maintain it.

In April, 2022, they started a long journey

to rebuild and revitalize their farm. The only issue was that the effects of the flood was still being seen.

The highway was destroyed and yet to be rebuilt, so the two had to find unique ways of getting back to their farm.

When they decided to go, the couple packed their bags full of food, hiking equipment and power tools, and would drive down what’s left of the highway before making the rest of the way on foot.

Once they returned, they found devastation. Their neighbours’ homes had been washed away in the flood or the land so

PHOTO TY LIM

Boulders were placed along the river bank to ensure the soil doesn’t erode during highwater.

‘WE’RE NOT ABANDONING OUR PLACE’

damaged that the buildings became infested with rodents and condemned.

“We’re not letting our place get ruined. We’re not letting our trees die. We’re not letting our gardens die. What was left? Right? We’re not abandoning our place,” Michael said.

The damage to the area was so bad, one of their neighbours perished in the flood along with her home.

“She thought she was safe in her house. And then the water just got higher, and then her house was washed away,” Brandie said. “Nobody really expects a flood to wash everything away, right? You expect a flood to come up and then Abate, so you think your house is a safe place, but it wasn’t for her.”

“In an emergency manual, it says, in the case of a flood, you know, go upstairs. Take everything upstairs. If it gets really hairy, go on the roof, but this wasn’t that kind of flood.”

Michael said the only reason their house wasn’t destroyed as well, was because there was a foundation of bedrock surrounding it.

“We were out here feeling like we were the last humans on earth,” Brandie said. They spent a week off and on, camping in and repairing their house, then they would go back to Ashcroft for a while before returning.

The land they were on changed drastically since they were there last. The flood was not the normal raising of waters, but a blast of stream powerful enough to eat away at the soil and foundations of properties.

“It’s more like your land got blasted. You. Like the land left, as opposed to, like a flood. You envision, water comes up, floods everything, and then goes down, and everything’s there. It’s all wet. It was like

gone. Everything was gone. Properties were gone. Shaved off,” Michael said.

And as the river shrank as well, new land revealed itself for future cultivation.

As the trips between Ashcroft and their home would have to be more frequent, the couple found themselves getting help from many kinds of people.

Helicopter pilots working for construction companies would kindly drop them off at their farm. In return for the favour, Michael and Brandie would give them baskets full of fresh fruit the grew in their rejuvenated gardens.

The construction companies in the area would also transform the land as they attempted to rebuild the roads.

Elsewhere, the couple received help from the government in the form of disaster financial assistance who they say covered 90 per cent of their material costs and a new well. They were also given a wage of $25 an hour to rebuild for a year period.

Some people who visited their farm in the past who heard about the damage donated various amounts of money as well.

Other farmers from outside the area donated pallets to help rebuild their fencing.

The new pallets didn’t need to be cut in any way, and their shape allows for decent climate control around some of the crops according to Michael.

“That was the real silver lining of the whole thing. Was feeling so loved by people, like people we didn’t even know. You know, would we’re just so glad to help, which was amazing. It made it, it made it more bearable,” Brandie said.

Most of the farm they had to rebuild themselves. Over the months they’ve reclaimed their land bit by bit.

To prevent highwater, a snaking formation

of rocks were constructed on the river banks using a technique called riprapping, which will protect surrounding soil from erosion.

The new land, they’ve already started taking advantage of. Alongside their house they’ve built a new garden and replaced an old one to grow perennial greens.

They’ve reconstructed their barn, which now houses their old cow Tina and a new one along with two goats.

Three new chicken pens have been constructed as well. The excess eggs the birds produce go to their market on the side of the road, which stood even during the flood.

The market there has mementos of times before the flood. Pictures of their lush gardens and smiling faces are dotted across the stand to let people passing by know who they are and what kind of people they are.

The damage and rebuilding has shaped their perspective on life.

“It really makes us think how insignificant we are,” Brandie said. “We thought we were building a legacy, but it can all get washed away.”

Originally, Brandie and Michael built the farm to the conditions it was in over 15 years. It has been a little under three years since they started going back, and now it’s prospering more than ever.

“You can do anything, but you have one life to do it, so do what you want to do,” Michael said.

For them, what they wanted to do was reclaim what they call “paradise”.

“The best time to plant a tree is yesterday, the next best time is today.”

PHOTO TY LIM

Goats and cows are now able to return to the farm in a newly constructed barn.

PHOTO TY LIM

Some orchards were high enough from the water to not be impacted by the flooding.

PHOTO TY LIM

The family’s cat, who survived the flood, sits around a wreath made of the land’s original plants.

PHOTO TY LIM

Eggs from these new chicken farms go into their market stand on the side of highway-8.

MERRITT CENTENNIALS CLINCH PLAYOFFS SPOT IN KIJHL

LAÍSA CONDÉ editor@merrittherald.com

Wednesday, Jan. 29 – Merritt Centennials 4, Osoyoos Coyotes 3

The Merritt Centennials started their three-game stretch this week with a nail-biting win against the Osoyoos Coyotes at the Sun Bowl Arena.

The first period saw a balanced game from both sides, with 15 shots each, though none would find the back of the net.

Both teams continued to pressure one another in the middle frame, and despite Merritt outshooting Osoyoos 20-12 in the period, the home team opened the scoring and took the lead.

By the end of the frame, Brayden Thurlow (10) put it past the goalie for the Centennials to tie it 1-1, heading into intermission.

The game was deadlocked at 1-1 heading into the final frame despite Merritt managing to continue to control the pace, outshooting Osoyoos 23-9.

The last five minutes proved to be a rollercoaster, with both teams battling not only the puck but the clock, leading to a dramatic finish.

Jackson Foster broke the tie with a well-placed shot that got past the Coyotes’ goalie, scoring his first goal of the season for the Cents.

It looked like the Cents might hold on for the win, but just a minute later, Osoyoos answered back during a power play, bringing the score back to 2-2 and giving its fans hope for a late victory.

The Coyotes would add another goal of their own with just under two minutes left in regulation, putting a lot of pressure on the Cents.

Just as Osoyoos began to gain momentum, Merritt struck twice in rapid succession with Maxim Radamanovich (7) and Steven Foster (22) scoring back-to-back goals within a span of 20 seconds. With 20 seconds left on the clock, the Coyotes were left reeling as the Cents sealed the deal with a 4-3 lead, leaving no time for a comeback.

The final horn came just after 9:25 p.m., with the Cents securing a thrilling 4-3 win against the Coyotes.

Wes McLeod, head coach and assistant general manager of the Merritt Centennials, praised the team for playing good road games.

“We were resilient when we gave up the lead late in the third (period) and continued to push and it ended up paying off for us as we scored two late goals to win the game,” he said.

Friday, Jan. 31 – Merritt

Centennials 6 - Williams Lake Mustangs 5 (SO)

The Merritt Centennials defeated the Williams Lake Mustangs 6-5 in a shootout at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena in their second game of their three-game stretch this week.

As is the case in most shootouts, Friday night was a classic goalie battle.

Cents’ goalie Mathis Perron made 21 saves as Jaxson Dikur made 40 for the Mustangs.

Merritt opened the score in the first period as Brayden Thurlow managed to find the back of the net, making it a 1-0 lead for the home team.

The lead would carry into the first few minutes in the middle frame until the Mustangs scored back-to-back goals.

Shortly after, Ethan Nesimiuk put it past the Mustangs’ goalie and tied the game for the Centennials.

The pressure on both was on. Williams Lake added another goal of their own and once again took the lead.

Merritt players did not let the pressure get into their heads.

The one-goal lead was gone after Steven Foster put it past the goalie and tied the game for the Centennials.

Foster was quickly followed by his teammate Thurlow, who found the back of the net just two minutes after to make it 4-3 for the Cents heading into the final frame.

The final frame saw the Mustangs tie the game early in the period. The visiting team took the lead once again as Logan Hauk added his third goal of the night.

Less than a minute later, Merritt would tie the game once again with Sam Giangualano, who scored his 21st goal of the season.

The game remained deadlocked at 5-5 for the rest of the final frame, leading to some extra time.

During overtime, Merritt had seven shots on goal while Williams Lake had one, though none managed to find the back of the net.

After a scoreless overtime, the two teams headed to a shootout to decide the winner.

Giangualano scored the decisive goal in the second round of shootout, crowing the 6-5 victory for the Cents.

Saturday, Feb. 1 – Merritt Centennials 2 - Kamloops Storm 3

The Merritt Centennials came up just short in a close game, falling 3-2 to the Kamloops Storm on the road on Saturday, Feb. 1.

The Cents came out of the gate strong and put a lot of pressure on the home team.

Merritt struck first seven minutes into the opening period, as Sam Giangualano put it past the Storm’s goalie to score his 22nd goal of the season.

The 1-0 lead was soon gone as Kamloops answered shortly after with a goal of their

own during a power play and locked it 1-1 until the first intermission.

Two minutes into the second period, Steven Foster (24) found the back of the net in power play for the Centennials to take the lead once again.

Third period saw more back-and-forth action, with both teams generating opportunities.

One lucky shot was enough by Nolan MacPherson to crown Kamloops’ victory over Merritt.

The Merritt Centennials fell 3-2 against the Kamloops Storm.

The Cents will look to get back into the win column when they head into the next two games as they face the Kelowna Chiefs on Saturday, Feb. 8, at the Rutland Arena, and the Princeton Posse on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at the Princeton & District Arena.

CLINCH FIRST PLAYOFF SPOT UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT AND LEAGUE

The Merritt Centennials have officially clinched their first-ever playoff spot in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL), marking a monumental achievement for the franchise in its inaugural season under new management and a revamped coaching staff.

This milestone is especially significant as the Centennials embarked on a journey with a clean slate: no returning players, only one returning staff member, Tyler Steel, and the challenge of competing in a new league. The team’s success is a testament to the dedication and hard work put in by first-year head coach Wes McLeod and his staff, who set out with a clear vision for the program.

“Starting from a blank slate of no returning players, one returning staff member (Tyler Steel), and a new league, it has been a long journey to get to where we are today,” said

McLeod. “We wanted to build a program that our community could be proud of, both on and off the ice. We feel like we have achieved this.”

McLeod emphasized the importance of culture and character, as the team spent much of the early season going through changes, with multiple roster evaluations and adjustments. Many of the players came to Merritt without prior connections to the team or the community. However, as they began to gel as a group, their on-ice performance began to improve, culminating in the Centennials’ playoff berth.

“Once we became a team in the dressing room, it translated into success on the ice,” McLeod reflected. “Making the playoffs in year 1 was a goal, and we are proud to have achieved that. We have now set our sights on going on a long playoffs run and contending for a league championship.”

The Centennials have experienced a surge of support from the community in recent months, with attendance growing steadily since the Christmas break. McLeod noted that the team thrives off the energy from the passionate Merritt fans, who have been eagerly awaiting a league championship for over 50 years.

“The people here are passionate their hockey,” he said. “We’re going to do everything we can to bring a championship to Merritt.”

As the team enters the final stretch of the regular season, McLeod’s focus is on staying healthy and peaking at the right time.

“We want to be playing our best hockey when game 1 of the playoffs rolls around,” he said. “We don’t care who we face in the first round. We’re young, we’re relentless, and we’re ready for whatever challenge comes our way.”

PHOTO : LAISA CONDE

Under new management, new coaching staff, new players and new league, the Merritt Centennials managed to clinch their spot in the playoffs this season.

NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY

NEW PILATES PROGRAM AIMS TO HELP ALL FITNESS LEVELS

Merritt has a new program for pilates lovers that is already looking to be a hit.

Ashley Corrigan runs Merritt’s newest workout program Nourish and Thrive Life, which will host classes every week on Monday and Thursday nights at 2114 Nicola Ave.

Pilates has always been a program with few options in Merritt.

Corrigan said that when she got here from the US, she found it difficult to find a workout facility that works for her.

Despite having a few gyms in town, she found Merritt didn’t have many places for guided workouts.

“It’s one thing to be instructed by someone. If you go to a fitness class you don’t have to think. It’s like you could shut your brain off. You can get in, you can get out, and you feel good when you get out, instead of going to the gym and some people just don’t know what to do,” Corrigan said.

Appeal to a wide variety of fitness demographics is not just something pilates is able to provide as a base, but it’s a doctrine Corrigan followed when planning her class.

“What’s great about Pilates is it’s not discouraging to people,”

she said. “If you’ve never done fitness, if you have an injury, if you’re trying to get back into fitness, or if you’ve been into fitness for years and just want to change things up, I can give you one exercise that you can do.”

According to a Polaris Market Research report published January 2024, interest in pilates and yoga is rising and is expected to continue trending in the coming years.

Fitness and health have been major roles in Corrigan’s life. Born in California, she went to Colorado State University to play softball on an athletic scholarship.

When Corrigan moved to Merritt years ago, she joined the fire department to work as a firefighter-paramedic. Being a firefighter in itself is a job rigorous to the body and requires one to be in peak physical shape.

After trying to open a pilates centre in town for years, she hopes it will finally fill that fitness void in the community once Nourish and Thrive Life opens.

Nourish and Thrive Life is also offering classes at a rate Corrigan feels is fair and affordable to those interested.

“I want people to feel like they can afford it, because, I mean,

it’s their health, and everything with your health is already expensive. You go to the grocery store, you try to eat healthy, and there’s a price tag on being healthy. And so I wanted this to be a market where people know they can go.”

She’s offering drop-in classes for $10 and a 10 class punch-card for a discounted rate.

The response to her program has already exceeded Corrigan’s expectations before classes have even started.

She’s had to limit a single class size to 20 people for her first few sessions so she can work more personally with clients.

“We could fit 30, but I just don’t want it to be too many people, or, like, I don’t want it to be too overcrowded, because I want to give people my attention, because I don’t want them to be doing the wrong form like I want to make sure everyone has attention from me, make sure they’re doing it, especially if they haven’t done it before.”

Corrigan is currently looking for instructors interested in teaching bar and yoga classes as well to get more classes running.

(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

Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com

DouglasGeorge Mikalishen

October1,1950 -January16,2025

Itiswithdeepsadnessthatweannouncethe passingofDougMikalishenonJanuary16,2025.

Dougwasanelectricianbytrade,workinginvarious locationsacrossB.C.Beforelong,hejoinedhiswifeDonnain herbusiness,ThomsonLawnCare(TLC),wheretogethertheydesignedstunning pondsandlandscapesthroughouttheNicolaValley. Theirdedicationand creativityearnedthemmultipleBusinessoftheYearawards.Hehad apassion forclassicvehiclesandenjoyedrestoringthemtotheirformerglory.

Forthepast34years,DougandDonnabroughtjoytothecommunityby creatinganoutdoorrinkintheiryard, aplacewheremanygatheredtoskateand makecherishedmemories.

Dougislovinglyrememberedbyhiswife,Donna;hischildren,Zowey andNathan;grandchildren,Jaxon,Madison,Colten,andChloe;andgreatgranddaughter,Phoebe.HeisalsosurvivedbyhissiblingsKay, Ev,Bev,Gerry, Norm,andMurray.

Hewaspredeceasedbyhisparents,SteveandMary;hisson,Kory;hissister, Bobbie;andhisnephew, Billy.

ACelebrationofLifewillbeheldat alaterdate.

Thankyouallforyourloveandsupportformybelovedhusband, DouglasGeorgeMikalishen.

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Email:merritthospice@shaw.ca

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