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SHELTER MEETING
Citizens On Patrol and Knight’s Inn shelter staff meet up to discuss improvements.
MERRITT MAN’S DEATH BEING INVESTIGATED BY RCMP
TIM PETRUK
Castanet
Police are investigating a murder in Merritt, where a man died after he was found suffering injuries police determined to be suspicious in nature.
Mounties are keeping tight lipped about the case. They said they were called to the residence of a man who was in medical distress on Monday.
Despite life-saving efforts, police said John Beauchemin succumbed to his injuries.
“Investigators are diligently tracing Beauchemin’s final movements and interactions leading up to the time of his death,” RCMP Staff Sgt. Jason Smart said in a news release.
“At this time, there is believed to be no cause for public concern as investigators continue to gather and assess the facts surrounding Beauchemin’s death.”
Anyone with information about the incident can call police at 1-877-987-8477.
13-16
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Get to know some of the strong women in our community as we celebrate and empower women on this special day.
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
MAYOR URGES ACTION FROM IH ON HOSPITAL CLOSURES
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
The increasing frequency of closures of the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Care Centre has prompted Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz to issue a letter of concern to the CEO of Interior Health Authority.
“I am writing to you to express my very grave concern on our hospital being closed three out of the last four days, Feb. 23, 25 and 26. The closure on the (23rd) is especially concerning as we had a structure fire and one of our firefighters needed medical attention while fighting this fire and was rerouted to (Kamloops) for treatment, then to make it worse after treatment he was released and had to find his own way back to Merritt at 11:30 p.m., not the best way to say thanks for protecting our city,” Goetz said in an email to Interior Health, which was forwarded to multiple news outlets including the Herald.
The mayor is also asking for Interior Health to provide staffing information and to keep the city updated on their efforts to cover shifts.
“I’m asking for leadership now to stop any possible issues that can come from these closures, issues that could alter lives in this city,” he said in the email.
In an email to the Herald, Diane Shendruk, vice president of clinical operations at Interior Health acknowledged the mayor’s message.
“Interior Health appreciates the mayor’s concerns and the impacts changes to normal services have on the residents in Merritt. I will be reaching out to the mayor directly to discuss this further,” she said in the email.
Shendruk said Interior Health saw an increase in physicians coming to Merritt last year, but also added that there is still a shortage of permanent staff.
“Emergency services in Merritt have been more stable in recent months through the dedicated efforts of many including Interior Health and local staff, along with ongoing supports from the province. Unfortunately, with a shortage of permanent recruits, service interruptions can still occur when the unexpected happens and someone is suddenly unavailable for a scheduled shift.”
As Goetz said, this is the fourth time the hospital has closed this year, with all of the closures happening in February. Last year the hospital closed 20 times.
“We have been successful in recruiting four new physicians to the community in the last year and continue to work on robust recruitment campaigns in B.C. and internationally to recruit more permanent staff. There remain multiple ongoing incentives from Interior Health and the Province in place to bring new nurses and physicians to the community,” Shendruk said in the email.
According to the B.C. government, the province registered more than 14,000 new nurses over the course of January 2023 to November 2024.
This is the third year Goetz and the city have been fighting over this issue. Over the past year he has been consistently chasing Interior Health and the Province for
the city to be financially reimbursed for the closures.
In April 2024 Adrian Dix, B.C.’s former health minister, said the Province would not reimburse Merritt.
“While we won’t be paying the bill, we will be continuing to work with Mayor Goetz, who I’ve worked regularly with in this process, to continue what I think has been a successful effort to fill physicians’ positions,” Dix said during a legislation meeting in April 2024.
Last year in July, Goetz sent an invoice of nearly $104,000 to the Province for 24 days of closures. He said in the email sent Feb. 27, 2025, that the second bill for 2024 will be coming soon.
“It is not acceptable to take funding and not produce the service,” he said in the email.
He also said the short-notice given to the citizens about the closures is an issue and he wants to be provided with a sheet that details Interior Health’s staffing list so the city can prepare for potential closures.
Closure notices from Interior Health have typically been put out just an hour or two before it happens.
“I would also like to be furnished a monthly call out sheet and what issues we could possibly be seeing as we move into a new month so we have a better idea of the scope of this issue and we can prepare for possible closures, getting notification 1 hour or 30 minutes before closure time is not acceptable,” Goetz said in the email. Information on possible closures is something that Interior Health has available internally according to Goetz.
The mayor said he spoke to an informant within Interior Health who gave him information on potential closures from September to December last year.
During a Merritt city council meeting on Feb. 25, Goetz said he spoke with the new Minister of Health Josie Osborne earlier that day.
He said he is optimistic about working with the new minister to solve the healthcare closure issue.
“I will admit that this minister (Osborne) is working hard. The last minister was in free-fall, this minister is at least trying to do something,” he said during the council meeting. “I’ve also let her know that next week the bills will come to her for 2024 and 2023, and I’m looking for an answer because I still have not got an answer.”
Osborne previously stated during legislative session Feb. 18 that the B.C. government is trying to recruit more healthcare workers to B.C. The Province is focusing their recruitment efforts on workers from other provinces as well as the U.S.
Susan Brown, CEO of Interior Health, echoed the sentiment that more recruitment from national and international markets are needed to stop these “last resort” closures during an Interior Health Board of Directors meeting on Feb. 12.
Mayor Goetz will be meeting with Osborne later in March, along with mayors from other communities in interior B.C. who have experienced closures, to formulate a plan as they move forward.
Contact Laísa or Ty at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
IH CEO SAYS FEDERAL IMMIGRATION CUTS WILL IMPACT HEALTHCARE
HOLLIDAY Castanet
Interior Health CEO Susan Brown says a reduced number of immigrants to Canada “will have an impact” on the health authority workforce.
In an IH board meeting last week, Brown was asked if the health authority anticipates an impact after the federal government decided to cut its immigration targets in 2025, 2026 and 2027.
“Health definitely is prioritized within immigration, but the numbers are less, for sure,” Brown said.
“There will be impacts. And wherever possible, where we have people here, we can do anything we can to support them to stay — but the reduction in number will have an impact for sure.”
Brown said the federal government has identified healthcare as an industry that would welcome more workers — in particular, professionals — but she said people immigrating to Canada have filled roles in all aspects of care delivery and support services.
“The actual number of immigrants to Canada has been reduced, so overall, lots of industries will potentially be impacted. So we’ll be looking to see what that looks like going forward. It just really reinforces the need for us on recruitment
and retention,” Brown said.
Director Thomas Friedman noted the number of international student spaces has been “radically reduced.”
“What kind of impact might that have in terms of training for the future?” Friedman asked.
Brown said this wasn’t totally understood at this time — but if training providers can’t fill seats, that would pose a problem.
“Additionally to that, I would suspect if they’re not filling seats, it creates a revenue problem for them as an academic institution. So there could be lots of tentacles to this,” Brown said.
She said even without immigration changes, some training seats for certain health professions aren’t always being filled.
“What we’re starting to see a little bit is a decrease in the amount of people going into, for example, emergency nursing,” she said.
“So those things are critical to us — and so lots to come on that as we work with our academic partners to see if there is impacts there. But you know, you’re right, all those areas can be impacted for us.”
KRISTEN
PHOTO: CASTANET
Interior Health CEO Susan Brown.
CITY SAVES MONEY AS THREE SEASONAL JOBS ARE DROPPED FROM BUDGET
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
There will be fewer job opportunities for students wanting to work with the city this year, as council has decided to not post some of this year’s summer students staffing opportunities.
As the May 15 deadline for the City of Merritt to submit their budget to the Province’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs comes ever-closer, council have some hard decisions to make by either cutting city services or subject residents to a 12 per cent tax increase.
In a recent council meeting, the subject of the city’s summer student positions were brought to table as a potential way to save money.
dealing with infractions.
In the past, the city was able get assistance with the funding for these student positions through grant money from the federal government. Due to recent changes in the grant’s eligibility process, the city is no longer able to access these grants.
As these are seasonal positions, the city is clarifying that “no one is losing their jobs” since the job wasn’t posted and therefore hadn’t existed yet.
“Next year we can have a look at that and see how it worked out, whether it was good or it was a disasted or in-between.”
Potential workers for these positions would be losing out on about $22,000 to $24,000 in wages for around 800 hours of work. This would equate to hourly wages of $27.50 and $30.
— Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz
For this role, there were only three positions available that the city has hired in the last year.
By not posting the job-listings this year, the city is saving $68,416 on three seasonal positions.
In previous years, the seasonal workers filled key support roles in helping keep the city clean during the busiest time-ofyear for unhoused encampments and a high amount of garbage, according to Chief Administrative Officer Cynthia White.
The workers were responsible for clearing and replacing garbage bags in city-owned cans. They also occasionally assisted in general maintenance in city-owned parts of the streets as well as providing support to a bylaw officer in
The decision is not permanent, as the positions will only be removed for the sake of the 2025-26 budget.
“Next year we can have a look at that and see how it worked out, whether it was good, or it was a disaster or in-between,” Mayor Mike Goetz said.
The decision-making was helped as the councillors had citizen concerns on the forefront of their minds. During an open house on Jan. 30, city councilors and staff had the chance to present preliminary budget plans to residents.
According to Goetz, there were many concerned with the tax-hike and were suggesting ways for the city to save money.
With that on their minds, mayor and council made the decision on Feb. 25 to not post the summer positions.
Three seasonal jobs have been cut from this year’s budget.
CLAYBANKS RV TO RETURN TO CITY
The City of Merritt is looking to bring the Claybanks RV Park back into the fold after a majority 6-1 vote by city council.
While the park is property owned by the city, responsibilities for managing it have been contracted out for the last 15 years. The last contractor was MIM Management group who took 63 per cent of the revenue the park generated during their tenure as per their contract with the city.
The RV park has been out of operation since 2021, due to heavy damages from the flood. It has been under temporary closure since and is not currently being operated by MIM Management.
Prior to the flood, financial data provided by the city’s finance team shows that the park was increasing in generated revenue every year.
In 2021, the park generated over $280,000, an increase from 2019 when $173,000 was brought in.
Despite a large amount of revenue being brought in, the city only took home $90,000 of the money.
“I’m going to be honest here with you, I’ve been very clear since 2016 that I think this should come back into city operation. When I look at the amount of money being handed to a contractor in 2021; $177,00 and we end up with $90,000. That number seems to be backwards to me,” said Mayor Mike Goetz during a council meeting on Feb. 25.
Today, the park has been rebuilt over the last few years, adding picnic tables and other amenities.
As the park was rebuilt, Merritt city council were presented with multiple options regarding its ownership.
The decision was narrowed down to two of the potential options for the future, though it was clear that the option to keep the park under city control stood out as the popular one.
It was discussed as a possibility that if the city were to keep full ownership of the park, the profits could be reinvested back into reserves for parks and recreation or even be put towards lowering the planned tax increase.
“We only have so much land, so we should keep it and hold it for the future, but we should control it. That way all the money that we make from it can go back into saving the taxpayers money,” Coun. Yvette Baxter said.
Under MIM Management, the RV park was operated by full time staff all seven days of the week, including on stat days and holidays.
If the city were to operate on the same basis as MIM Management, it is estimated that it would cost them $123,000 per year in wages for three workers on various employment statuses.
It is also noted that a section of river dike around the RV park is set to start construction soon which will align with the re-opening of the park.
The construction of the dike will remove some of the available land at the park. It is also assumed that the noise of an active construction site will make the RV park a less attractive stay.
Some of the reconstruction work on the RV park may have to be removed, chief administrative officer Cynthia White said, as they would have to make room for the construction of the dike.
With these factors in play, the city estimates that the first few seasons of the return could be slow.
To lower the cost of overall employee wages, it was suggested that the park could limit the hours of park operators to park time and automate certain systems like its booking system.
While the exact reopening date of Claybanks is not yet known, it is a possibility that it could be ready for this summer season.
NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT
HIGHER TAXES A CERTAINTY IN 2025, ADDS PRESSURE ON CANADIANS
DAN ALBAS View from the Hill
Acommon question I’ve been hearing lately concerns when the House of Commons will sit again.
In early January, Prime Minister Trudeau prorogued Parliament to allow the Liberal Party time to select his replacement as party leader.
Many have asked if the new Liberal Party leader will automatically become the next Canadian Prime Minister, despite not being elected to that position in a general election.
The short answer is yes—unless Mr. Trudeau asks the Governor General to dissolve Parliament before a new Liberal leader is selected.
Another related question: If the next Liberal Party leader is not currently a Member of Parliament, can they still become Prime Minister?
The short answer is also yes. Under our Westminster Parliamentary system, a Prime Minister can serve without being a Member of Parliament, though this situation is rare.
Here’s how this works: In 1984, John Turner, a former Liberal MP, was elected to lead the governing Liberal Party and subsequently became Prime Minister. Since Mr. Turner was not an MP, he could not sit on the House of Commons floor or perform the typical Parliamentary duties of a Prime Minister who holds a seat in Parliament. So his only option was to sit in the guest gallery as an observer.
Obviously, this is not an ideal situation and it resulted in Turner calling a general election that the Liberal Party would lose to the PC Government of Brian Mulroney just
a few months later. It should be noted that Mr. Turner was successful in winning his own seat to become an MP and also the Leader of the Official Opposition.
Returning to my original question “When will the House of Commons sit again?”—the House is currently scheduled to resume sitting on March 24th, 2025. However, the outcome of the Liberal Party leadership race to replace Justin Trudeau may alter that timeline.
For example, the next Liberal Party leader (and by extension Prime Minister) might call an immediate election, which would prevent the House of Commons from resuming on March 24th. Under Elections Canada rules, the election campaign (writ period) must last between 37 and 51 days. If an election were called in mid-March, Canadians could have a new government by late April or early May, depending on the campaign length chosen by the Prime Minister.
The timing of when a new government reconvenes the House of Commons after an election lies solely with the newly elected Prime Minister.
Alternatively, the winner of the Liberal Leadership race, and new Prime Minister, may choose to let the House of Commons reconvene as scheduled on March 24th for a potential throne speech and other Parliamentary proceedings.
The Liberal Party of Canada will announce its new leader—who will become the next Prime Minister of Canada—on Saturday, March 9th, less than two weeks from now.
Theoretically, the writ for our next general election could be dropped within days of that announcement.
My question this week—Do you support a new Liberal Prime Minister calling an immediate election, or do you believe Parliament should first resume as scheduled?
FINDING HOME IN MERRITT AS I CELEBRATE FOUR YEARS IN CANADA
LAÍSA CONDÉ Editor’s corner
As I reflect on four years since I moved to Canada, I am filled with gratitude and pride. What began as a leap of faith has blossomed into a deep sense of belonging. Canada, with its vast landscapes, welcoming spirit, and diverse culture, has not only become my new home but also a place that continues to shape me in meaningful ways.
When I first arrived, the city lights and fast-paced life of urban Canada were overwhelming, yet exciting. The energy of Toronto, Vancouver, or any of the larger cities can be intoxicating. But what I didn’t know at the time was that my path would lead me to something quieter, something more grounded—a place where the true meaning of community could unfold.
I eventually found my way to Merritt, a small town tucked away in the heart of British Columbia. At first, the slower pace and wide-open spaces felt like a world away from what I had known. But it didn’t take long for me to realize that this peaceful town was
everything I had been searching for. Merritt, with its scenic landscapes, close-knit community, and quiet charm, has allowed me to truly connect with the land and people around me in ways that a city never could.
Living in Merritt has been a reminder that life doesn’t always need to be fast to be meaningful. There’s something truly special about the simplicity here. Whether it’s the long walks through the surrounding forests, the serene lakes, or just the sense of community in town, Merritt has become more than just a place to live. It’s a place that has shaped me, inspired me, and given me a sense of peace that I didn’t realize I needed.
Adjusting to this smaller town life had its challenges. The transition from a bustling city to a quieter community was a bit daunting at first. There were times when I missed the vibrancy and endless possibilities that cities like Vancouver offered. But what Merritt has given me in return is something even more valuable: a deep sense of connection. Here, I’ve forged lasting friendships with my coworkers who’ve become like family. I’ve learned that sometimes, the most meaningful experiences come not from the noise around us, but from the quiet moments shared with others.
LETTERS to the Editor
CHOOSE TO SAVE
Editor,
Canada has the ability to make a change and it baffles me how slow moving they are with their actions. Speaking from the perspective of an Asian female teenager, I know what it feels like to be shoved into the role of a minority. No one should ever have to feel less than because of something they cannot control. I urge you to help me encourage Canada to leverage its global influence to help mobilize support and solidarity from other countries where individuals are suffering—not by their own choice, but due to the lack of assistance from those around them. As G7 President in 2025, Canada has the opportunity to stay true to its
ART-TASTIC!
This week’s submission is by Laísa Condé.
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 think the implementation of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods entering U.S. will prompt a full-blown Canada-U.S. trade war?
Have your say at merrittherald.com
WEEK’S QUESTION
Do you feel there are enough activities for young people in town? LAST
A LOOK BACK
From the Herald archives
MARCH 30, 1994
values and invest in organizations like Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance to ensure the immunization of over 500 million children, support the elimination of cervical cancer through vaccinations against the human papillomavirus (HPV) and boost global health security by standing ready to respond to 150 disease outbreaks. We truly have no more time to waste. It’s time to take action—now.
– Bernice Ko Vancouver, B.C.
DECREASE OF CITY TAXES EXPECTED
Merritt residents may be paying lower taxes than expected. City council members and administration staff said last week that it’s possible because the City received more grant money from the provincial government than what was actually budgeted for.
MARCH 1, 2000
AFFIDAVIT FORGERY
A British Columbia Supreme Court justice will decide today whether a former Kamloops cabinetmaker should spend more time in jail for fabricating an affidavit.
Mr. Justice Richard Low will also decide if Kurtis S. should pay $9,000 in various costs to a Kamloops couple he built cabinets for and eventually took to court in 1994.
He pled guilty to fabricating an affidavit, obstructing justice and providing a false statement during March 25, 1994 to Aug. 30, 1994.
NVFBSocietymembers,andpeopleinterestedinbecomingmembers,areurgedto attend.Themorememberswehavesignedup–thebetterourqualificationsfor grantstohelpusbuildournewfacility!Membershipisnotonerous–thefeeisjust $5.00andgenerallythereisjusttheonemeetingayear.Forthosewhowishtobe moreinvolved,weanticipatethattherewillbeopportunitytoserveonourBoardof Directors.
Refreshmentswillbeserved.OurAnnualPerformanceReviewwillbeavailable. We willbeprovidinganupdateonsomepreliminaryinformationunderconsiderationin connectionwithourproposednewFoodBankFacility.
Merritt resident sand businesses currentlyconsume waterata rate well abovenational aver age. This may be dueinpar ttowater beinglostinagingwatermains Thanks to fundingfromthe Province of BC ,the City of Merritt is nowinitiatingaunivers alwatermetering program. As tandardwater meterwillbeins talled in ever yhousehold FREE OF CHARGE to homeowners It is expectedthat with accurate informationabout waterusage,the City will be able to identif yinfrastructure deficienciesand seeadecreaseinwater usage.
ReferencetheCity of Merritt Waterwor ks Bylaw#2392,2025 (adopted Febr ua ry 25,2025):“AWater Metersha ll be installed foreachcategor yonevery pa rcel that receives waterser vice from theCit yasp er theFee sa nd Charge sB ylaw.T heCity mayref useorD isconti nuetosupplywater to anyp remise s. ”
CITIZENS ON PATROL MEET WITH SHELTER STAFF TO DISCUSS COMMUNITY
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
Representatives of the shelter at the Knight’s Inn and Merritt’s Citizens on Patrol gathered last week, coming to an informal agreement to work together for the sake of the community.
Citizens on Patrol is a group of Merritt residents roam the streets at night, reporting crimes in progress to the city’s RCMP detachment. The group has garnered much attention since it formed last fall, even getting recognition from Mayor Mike Goetz.
Their facebook page has 742 members and their progress is being watched carefully by residents in neighbouring communities, who Bryan Halfordilo, co-founder of Merritt Citizens on Patrol, said had expressed their wishes to start a local group there modeled after what Citizens on Patrol is doing in Merritt.
The shelter at the former Knight’s Inn Motel is Merritt’s newest and only low-barrier housing. It is complete with capacity for 44 residents plus more if weather conditions permit holdovers.
The shelter is operated by social workers trained in operating in an environment where drug-use and mental health issues may be prevalent.
Two months have passed out of the shelter’s two-year contract at the former motel. So far there have been no escalated incidents.
On Monday, Feb. 24, representatives from both sides gathered at the former motel, the Knight’s Inn under the pretense of discussing community engagement and safety.
The two representatives, John Warren, program coordinator at the shelter, and Halfordilo, opened their meeting cordially, setting the tone for the rest of the day.
“My whole thing is to fix the ties with the city, because from what I’ve gathered and somebody can correct me if I’m wrong here, there’s obviously some hurt feelings here,” Warren said.
“We want more community engagement. Not like the old (Citizens on Patrol group), where they just phone the police and did their thing. You know? We want to be more involved. I can’t see the old (Citizens on Patrol group) coming to you guys and saying, ‘hey let’s work stuff out.’ Well, we want to,” said Halfordilo.
Both groups are passionate about social work and helping some of the disenfranchised to the best of their abilities.
Halfordilo does recognize the potential benefits a shelter could bring. Before living in Merritt, he lived in Vancouver’s
Downtown Eastside, a place where many people experiencing homelessness stay.
Warren, on the other hand, was born and raised in Merritt. He moved to New Brunswick to do social work, working in halfway houses, before moving back to Merritt.
Since moving back, he has worked in the Desert Inn and is now the program coordinator for the shelter. He said he’s seen a lot of people use the shelter that he knows personally.
“Over half the people we house here (in the shelter), I went to school with,” Warren said.
“It’s also personal for me in a lot of ways. It’s one of those things where I feel like it’s an obligation for me to be out front like, this is the shelter. This is what I actually want. Because I don’t want people to feel like I’m just housing crime and stuff like that. I actually want to work, I want my friends back.”
Halfordilo said his group is not here to “pick on the homeless”. He said it’s a fine line sometimes, as he has been getting more reports of suspicious activity around the shelter.
He also stated he was initially against the shelter and how they operated.
His major gripes with the shelter was lack of initial communication with the community at-large while the shelter was opening, as well as the lack of security in the
CHANGES: continued on page 10
PLUMBING &HEATING
PHOTO/TY LIM
Bryan Halfordilo (left) and John Warren (right) shake hands.
CHANGES TO SECURITY MEASURES, COMMUNITY OUTREACH DISCUSSED
CHANGES: continued from page 9
Warren replied saying, as the shelter was opening, he said he was on the ground himself handing out letters of notice to houses in the neighbourhood around the shelter located near Diamondvale.
Warren said he reached out to residents in the area, inviting him to talk to him if they ever had any concerns.
He also stated security at the shelter was not needed and that during the opening process, they were only there to prevent theft and to watch over the encampment that formed on the property.
It was also noted that Warren thought security was not worth what they were paying, stating that they often didn’t have much to do.
Halfordilo partly agreed to this point during their meeting, stating he saw the same thing when he would patrol the shelter grounds. Still, he thought it would be beneficial for security personnel to be brought back even if only temporarily.
The shelter, which is funded and operated in part by BC Housing, no longer has security personnel. Instead,
shelter staff are relied on, using tactics to de-escalate potentially violent situations.
Security measures like the building’s fencing and a strict 11 p.m. curfew are in place for residents of the shelter.
A few weeks ago, the fencing around the shelter was damaged by a logging truck. Warren expects the repairs to be completed shortly.
With these measures in place, Warren echoed his previous statement that security personnel aren’t necessary.
He said BC Housing properties normally don’t have security personnel on the premises either.
Despite this, he recognized the feedback from Halfordilo and other locals who would feel greater “peace of mind” if security were present at the shelter. Warren said he would bring up the idea of bringing back security in the future to BC Housing. At the same time, he couldn’t promise anything would be done on that issue.
Regarding security issues, the shelter and Citizens on Patrol found a few points they could agree on.
Citizens on Patrol suggested a few changes to their security that Warren seemed to be interested in, and is actively looking to implement.
One of the changes is the exterior lighting around the premises.
Halfordilo said he finds it difficult to see people when patrolling around the shelter at night. He suggested higher wattage lights like flood-light could be installed around the area.
Another big point raised was around the quantity of drugs brought into the shelter.
Currently, the shelter allows residents to store the legal limit of criminal substances - 2.5g - for them to use in their overdose prevention sites (OPS) around the shelter.
The sites are cleaned regularly and monitored by shelter staff. The indoor OPS has a 30-minute time limit.
The issue at-hand, and one pointed out by Citizens on Patrol, was that the shelter did not weigh the drugs when a resident was intaked. Cameras are in place to watch the drugs being handed over, but there is no numerical record of the drug’s quantity.
“Somebody’s gonna come in one day
and say, ‘well I had more drugs than that, you guys are stealing from me,” Halfordilo said.
Warren replied, saying the scale was something he had never thought of but one that is “actually a really good idea.”
Citizens on Patrol mentioned instances of them seeing people passing or lobbing items over the shelter’s fence.
Warren said an incident like that has happened once. He also clarified that the offender was caught on camera and was given a loss of service for three weeks, essentially a temporary ban.
Warren stated that he is very strict when it comes to residents following the rules.
He reiterates the rules preventing theft. Any resident entering the shelter with stolen property is also given a loss of service.
“Some people will go, ‘I just wanted a bed to sleep in, I didn’t want to follow the rules.’ We’re not asking a lot from you (residents) here, but we’re asking you
FUTURE: continued on page 11
FUTURE COOPERATION AGREED UPON
FUTURE: continued from page 10
to follow the rules,” he said. “At the end of the day, the rules keep them safe too, but it also keeps everybody else safe.”
Warren stated that the shelter is not supplying drugs to their residents.
Currently the shelter is at around half-capacity. Warren said some of the potential residents at the shelter were turned off by the idea of a following all the rules.
“I would rather house 20 people and have those 20 doing well than have 40 people and it just being completely a show,” Warren said.
Citizens on Patrol agreed with the statement, but also brought up that there are many who could use the shelter’s services but aren’t.
Warren responded, saying that they have a successful working relationship with the RCMP who occasionally bring people down to the shelter who need it to stay.
He also said that there’s an outreach worker who has made good relationships with some of the transient peoples in town.
“But outreach only goes so far,” Warren said.
Halfordilo said Citizens on Patrol would try to work with the shelter in the future, finding anyone that looks cold and they would deliver them to the shelter to get warm for the night.
The conversation steered towards the residents of the shelter, how they were doing and what measures shelter staff have put in place to get people back on
their feet.
There are workshops in place to help people find jobs, and the staff help them find permanent housing.
So far there have been four cases of success stories to come out of the shelter according to Warren.
Of the four success stories, three people have gotten into housing and one has found work.
There are also one resident who will be going into drug detox soon.
Warren also recognized one woman staying at the shelter who he said has made huge strides in her mental health. This woman is also known to members of Citizens on Patrol.
Halfordilo reacted positively to the news, “a few months in, right? It’s a start and it shows that it’s working,” he said.
Warren eventually wants to have a garden in the shelter too. He stated one of his dreams was for the shelter to become self-sustaining.
The group ended the meeting with the promise of working together more in the future. Warren offered the shelter as a pit-stop for Citizens on Patrol members to rest and recharge during the night.
In-turn, Halfordilo also invited Warren, shelter staff and possibly shelter residents to the Citizens On Patrol’s next general meeting at Cactus Annie’s 6:30 p.m. on March 14. The general public is also invited to attend.
A short tour of the shelter was conducted of the site’s OPSs and commons rooms.
Security personnel at the Knight’s Inn shelter are no longer present a month after opening, as previously stated by shelter staff prior to opening.
MERRITT MAN FACES JAIL TIME AFTER REPEATED SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON GIRLFRIEND
TIM PETRUK Castanet
A Merritt man who repeatedly raped his live-in girlfriend over a period of nearly three years has been ordered to spend more than two years in federal prison.
Christopher James Degner, 32, was sentenced Tuesday in B.C. Supreme Court to 30 months behind bars. He was convicted by a jury last year following a trial on one count of sexual assault.
Degner repeatedly sexually assaulted his partner between January of 2020 and November of 2022.
The abuse fell into two categories — forced sex and non-consensual sex when the victim was asleep.
protect the identity of the victim.
But Stirbys applied successfully on Tuesday to lift the ban so that Degner’s name can be printed.
She then read a victim-impact statement.
“I am now a woman bearing scars invisible to the eye but wildly visible to my soul, achingly visible to my daughter, who was never meant to watch her mother navigate complex PTSD,” Stirbys said.
“I am now a woman bearing scars invisible to the eye, but wildy visible to my soul,” — Chloe Stirsby, victim
Degner denied any wrongdoing at trial and said all of his encounters with the woman were consensual.
The victim, Chloe Stirbys, described a number of scenarios in court. She testified about situations where Degner forced himself on her while she was on the toilet or in bed with their newborn baby, and told jurors he “thought it was funny” when she couldn’t remember having had sex following a night of drinking.
Publication ban lifted Until now, Degner could not be named in relation to the case under a court-ordered publication ban put in place to
“I have a long line of strong women behind me who have fought for what I have been given, who have held their silence, never to speak of what’s happened to them. Every one of those women who has experienced abuse deserves justice — and so do I.”
B.C. Supreme Court Justice Brad Smith sentenced Degner to 30 months in federal prison. He was taken into custody to begin serving his sentence immediately, despite a request from his lawyer for some time to get his affairs in order.
Prosecutors had been seeking a sentence of 3.5 years, while Degner’s defence lawyer suggested two years of house arrest.
In addition to the prison time, Degner was ordered to submit a sample of his DNA to police for inclusion in a national criminal database and to register as a sex offender for the next 20 years.
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James Degner, guilty, will spend over two years and jail and will be registered as a sex offender.
INTERNATIONAL
WOMEN SHINE IN MERRITT’S POLICE FORCE AS NEW OFFICER CELEBRATES A YEAR IN MERRITT
The end of February marked a year since new RCMP officer Sarah Smith arrived in Merritt.
Smith is one of the fresher faces in Merritt’s RCMP detachment, only officially joining the force a year ago after going through rigorous training in Regina.
Originally hailing from Kelowna, Smith was glad to have been stationed so close to home so she can keep some of the same lifestyle she grew up with. It was back home when Smith first felt her calling was to be in protective services. She said her personal interactions with police officers made her want to be like those who helped her. “I was really compelled by the way that I saw police interacting with people in the community, but also my own personal experience,” she said. “There were times when I was young, when I needed them and I called them and they showed up, and the relief that I felt and that security that I felt when they show
up and take charge just is what did it for me.”
Later in her life, Smith would work in the healthcare industry where she interacted with police a lot more.
“I always found their compassion to be super compelling, honestly.”
She would later transition to security and bylaw enforcement before joining the RCMP.
After going through training, RCMP officers have the potential to be moved anywhere in the country. Many, if not all,
new recruits are relocated away from their hometowns to avoid any conflicts of interest.
For Smith, Merritt was deemed a wishlist destination for rookie officer.
“I got very lucky that my posting was Merritt, which is, you know, was an hour and a half two hours away from where I previously lived. So not a huge adjustment for me in terms of family and that sort of thing,” she said.
Living in Merritt has allowed her to participate in some of favourite
recreational activities on her off time, like hiking and backpacking.
On-the-job, Smith has already experienced plenty of her job’s challenges.
“Every day is a new, fresh start, and you want to just go and do the best you can and make a difference,” she said.
“You can never sit down in your cruiser in the morning and say, ‘this is how my day is going to go,’ because it will rarely go that way. You can never prepare for it.”
Over the year, she’s responded to about every kind of call a police officer can imagine. From car accidents, to noise complaints to checking out violent crimes, Smith has seen it.
“Merritt is unique in that way where you just get so much of everything,” Smith said. “It’s been an incredible learning opportunity for me.”
Smith said she has even got to experience the workings of police investigations as well.
Being an RCMP officer is hard that can be emotionally taxing. According to a study from the University of Regina and National Police Federation published in February 2024, RCMP members are six times more likely to suffer from a mental health disorder than a member of the average person. This stems from being exposed to a myriad of potentially traumatising events on their job. Smith said she has been able to handle the pressures of the job well, due to both her personal drive and support from her peers.
“It comes down to wanting to help people. Oftentimes, when we come into contact with people, it’s on the worst day
PHOTO/TY LIM
Born and raised in Kelowna, RCMP officer Sarah Smith is happy to find a posting close to home.
‘I JUST WANT TO SEE MERRITT THRIVE’
of their lives, or at least a bad day at the very minimum. So for me, I have that desire to make that day a little bit better.”
Her fellow officers and staff in the detachment are highly supportive of each other. She echoes the idea that many in the RCMP do that the detachment is like a family.
“We spend just as much time at work as we do at home, right? And a lot of the time we’re navigating these challenging situations. So, you know, you just get bonded to the people that you work with and the support staff, and you know, whether that’s reception staff or the people who are working in cell block or each other,” she said.
Women are becoming increasingly prevalent members of the police force.
As of January 2024, almost 20 per cent of regular RCMP members are female. In the public service section of Federal policing, women make up over 73 per cent of the workforce.
Smith said she has never felt being a woman has been a disadvantage.
“I don’t think being a woman in this field is a disadvantage. Of course, there are certain things that, you know, women might be naturally just predisposed to do in comparison to men, but honestly, I
find that at the end of the day, like, it just creates, like, a well rounded force,” she said.
“I would just encourage women to join if they feel like it’s something they might be interested in, and to try not to be intimidated by the fact that it is male dominated. Because, like I said, ultimately I’ve been super well supported. Everybody here has been amazing and and even through depo, I felt it was the same way too.”
Smith said she’s already had moments during her time here where she’s seen people react to her the same way she did to other officers when she was younger.
“Every once in a while I’ll have little moments where somebody will come up to me, whether it’s like a kid who says, ‘I want to be a police officer,’” she said. “Or somebody who says, ‘thank you for taking the time out of your day to treat me like a human and to show me compassion.”
“We don’t get them all the time, but when they do happen, it’s a super incredible feeling for us.”
Smith said she wants to see the community thrive just as much as others.
“My biggest thing is I try to remind people that I live here too. I care about the community too, and I just want to see Merritt thrive at the end of the day.”
HIGHLIGHTING WOMEN IN BUSINESS: ADVICE FOR THIS YEAR’S TAX SEASON
TY LIM reporter@merrittherald.com
As March is the middle of tax season, a professional accounting firm shares its tips on how to navigate it.
Carrie Ware & Company Inc. is a public practice accounting firm based locally in Merritt. They assist both corporations and individuals with tax returns and financial statements.
For individuals, the practice offers services for tax planning, estate planning and filing their personal taxes.
For many, especially business owners, tax season can be a confusing time.
The general deadline for most Canadians to pay their taxes is April 30. Self-employed taxpayers have a slightly extended deadline for their tax return as it’s due on June 16.
In December of 2024, the Canadian government reported they collected over $217-million in income taxes which is around $9-million more than in 2023. This year there are a few big changes to the tax system.
Celebratingthe WomenofOurCommunity.
As per usual, income tax brackets have changed due to inflation. Brackets are increasing by 2.7 per cent to keep up with Canadians paying higher prices.
Last year saw a 4.7 per cent increase.
“Basically, everything goes up by percentages, based on inflation, for the tax brackets,” Ware said.
Canadians can also now invest more money into their savings and pension plans.
The Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) can have 18 per cent of your earned income to a maximum of $31,560 put into your plan each year.
Any amount not used carries forward to be used in subsequent years.
Maximum contributions to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) has also increased for employees, employers and self-employed Canadians.
Canadians will only be able to contribute a maximum of $7,000 to their Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSA) this year as its rates have remained unchanged this year.
Another
Honouringthe Past, InspiringtheFuture!
Thispast January we as aBoardshareda collective lossofa long-timemember Me ganFulcher. To us,shewasnot justa Boardmember butadearfriend,a chosensister,anda blesseddaughter. Last year,Meganwas honouredduringour 2024International Women’s Day event by hersister, Ashle y. Me gan wasrecognized forherkindheart, compassionate soul,andamazing innerstrengththat providedhercourage and resilienceinthe faceofherongoing healthbattle.
Me ganwas ahugesupporterofourIWD event. Formanyyears, sheworkeddedicatedlyalongsidehermom,CarolFulcherto make the eventsuchabeautiful evening wherefriends,family andcommunitycametogethertohonourtheaccomplishments& celebratethe extraordinar ywomeninMerrittandtheNicola Valle y.
This eventistruly thehighlightofthe year forourBoard of Director s. Howeverwewillbeunabletoorganizeourtraditional IWDCelebration for2025. We thankyou foryourunderstanding andweare hopefultocontinuethis eventinthefuture.
OnInternational Women’s Daywerecognizeallthoseinour community whomakeadifferenceinthelivesofother s. We recognize andcelebrate youforbeingthe amazing Womenthatyouare.
Photocredit:Shelanne JusticePhotography
CAPITAL GAINS TAX: LAND OWNERS, COMPANIES, SMALL BUSINESSES HIT
potential big change to the tax system is the upcoming capital gains tax inclusion rate change happening January 2026.
This change is one that Ware said will affect more Canadians than the government anticipated.
Capital gains is profit earned by selling certain types of assets.
small businesses, any capital gain has a 66 per cent inclusion rate. So two-thirds of any gain is taxed instead of just half.
While the $250,000 may sound like a lot, Ware said a lot more Canadians will be susceptible to the tax than most think.
“It’s affecting a lot more people than the federal government assumes,” she said.
them are doing well and they’re saving money in investments? They’re going to get snagged by this,” she said.
“Then you have all of the baby boomers who are now selling their vacation cottages that they bought 40 years ago or inherited 40 years ago, and it’s going to be hit with that rule as well.”
big bills that you know are coming,” she said.
She also said people who invest and take out of their RRSPs every year should avoid doing that and instead use TFSAs. CAPITAL: continued from page 14
Stocks, houses and land are examples of what can be considered capital gains when sold.
The Capital gains tax inclusion rate change will affect Canadians by taking a larger percentage of those profits and adding that to a person’s taxable income.
Originally, only 50 per cent of the capital gain was taxable, but now the first $250,000 is 50 per cent taxable with anything over that amount having a 66 per cent inclusion rate.
This means that any capital gain over $250,000 has 66 per cent of the gain taxed instead of the original 50 per cent. And for
“Any company that owns assets, they have land, they have buildings, you have a rental company that owns land and buildings, that’s all capital gains when it goes up, because it appreciates, so it affects a lot more people and business owners, small business owners.”
Ware said that many small businesses were previously advised to leave the money in their company because it was at a lower tax bracket. That money would then used to create an investment portfolio.
“You look at all of the business owners in this town. How many of them have land and building, it’s going to go up in value. They’re going to get snagged by this. How many of
Q&A WITH PROMINENT MERRITT WOMEN
leave as a woman in leadership?
Q: What is the best piece of advice you would give to other women?
A: My advice to other women is to be confident within yourself. Believe in your strengths and capabilities. Pursue your dreams. You can do it! It’s just a matter of willingness. Don’t be afraid of set backs. Be confident, compassionate and be unapologetically yourself. Rely on your intelligence and wit. If you want it, it is yours. Strive to be well educated and skillful so that you are independent in life.
Q: What kind of legacy do you want to
A: As a woman in leadership, I aspire to leave a legacy of voicing my opinion with compassion, integrity and above all determination. I would like to be remembered by others for my dedication to the community and my willingness to express an opinion or direction without being intimidated.
Q: What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
A: To me International Women’s Day serves both as a celebration and a reminder to all countries of the journey towards gender equality. It’s a moment to acknowledge the accomplishments of women who have paved the way and to reflect on the challenges that remain in achieving true equality in leadership roles.
I firmly believe that the family is the basic foundation for gender equality. How a woman is respected in a family paves the future of a woman. If a woman is treated with respect and equality within the family structure, this enables her to inspire and empower other women.
For a woman in leadership, this day reinforces her commitment to breaking barriers and supporting the next generation of women leaders.
Q&A: continued on page 16
“I know for myself, one of my TFSAs and how I use it is I put an amount in every paycheck to cover my property taxes, my house insurance and my vehicle insurances so that I always have that nest egg there for when those big bills come.”
“That makes tax planning very entertaining for those of us who are trying to assist our clients,” she said.
Ware also gave tips for people looking to save money this tax season.
“The big one is budget. Put away for those
Wendy Charney - City Councillor
Amanda Schweitzer - The Social Lounge Salon And Aesthetics
Q: What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
A: Personally, I think it represents mothers, sisters, all the women. It takes power and courage to be a woman.
Whether you’re a mom and dealing with mom stuff all day, or you’re working in a man’s world. I used to be a truck driver, so I’ve been there, done that. That’s not easy. Or you’re just getting up every day and doing you. It’s really hard sometimes as a woman.
Q: What advice would you give other women?
A: Just keep going. Don’t give up. You’re capable of a lot of a lot of things, if you just put your mind to it, really.
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave as a woman in a leadership position?
A: That I didn’t give up, that I kept going. You have to pivot constantly. If one thing doesn’t work out, go back to the drawing board and try again. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Try to lead by example.
Lynn Tulliani
Q: What advice would you give other women?
A: Never give up. Find your niche and go with it. Never give up.
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave as a woman in a leadership position?
A: That I have enabled the other women that have worked with me or for me or whatever, to go forward. Keep moving forward. Keep finding what you want to do best, and if you want to move on from here, that’s great. Just find something you want to do and go for it.
I love it when I see women in sports, or girls going into sports, or girls taking leadership roles in different areas. I think the more power we give to women, the better off we are. We’ll all be awesome, and I tried to do that here.
Q: What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
A: It makes me feel good. Well, it makes everybody feel good. I guess, powerful. I guess that’s the word, powerful.
Q: What advice would you give other women?
A: To feel good about yourself and powerful again, the word powerful just comes to me, just to be who you are.
Q: It doesn’t matter who you are or what you are like in nationality and all that. It doesn’t matter if you have issues or facing other problems, you are still a beautiful person.
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave as a woman in a leadership position?
A: Not to be a follower, but just to be powerful and smart. To give good advice to people because we’ve been through things. So to carry on that experience to somebody else.
Celebratingthe Women WhoKeepUsRunning
Since1985,NicolaPlumbing &Heatinghasbeen atrusted namein thecommunity,founded by TomandMike’s father.But behind thescenes, therehavealwaysbeenstrong womenkeeping everything together.
MaxineandJeanetteofficially becamepartnersin2018, though theirdedicationstartedlongbefore.Wit hnearly30years ofcommitmentfromMaxineand20fromJeanette,t heyare truly thegluet hatholdsourcompanytoget her—keepingusgrounded, organized,andt hriving.
Andt hent here’sMichele, theheart ofouroperationand#1 OfficeAssistantinour company.
We arebeyondgratefulf or theseincrediblewomenwhoplay avital rolein keepingNicolaPlumbing& Heatingstrong.Their dedication,hardwor k, andleadershipmeant he worldtous.
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Merr ittHomeHardware isn’tjusta store– it’sa communityhub.Andatt he hear toft hatcommunityare theincrediblewomenwho make itbeat.Led by Clara Moyes, theirdedication goesbeyond theaisles. They’ret heproblem-solvers, theproject guides,and the friendly facest hatbrighten yourday. They’ret heones whorememberyourname, yourproject,andyour dog’sf avourite treat.
NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS
CENTS STRUGGLE IN OPENING ROUND OF KIJHL PLAYOFFS
LAÍSA CONDÉ editor@merrittherald.com
The Merritt Centennials fell behind three games to none to the Revelstoke Grizzlies in the playoffs series, losing 4-3 on Friday, 3-0 on Saturday, and 6-2 on Monday night.
Friday, Feb. 28 – Merritt Centennials 3, Revelstoke Grizzlies 4
In an exciting and hard-fought playoff debut in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League, the Centennials came up just short, losing 4-3 against the Grizzlies in their first postseason game.
Merritt struck first five minutes into the opening period, as Cohen Poulin put it past the Grizzlies’ goalie and made it 1-0.
Despite the back-and-forth action, with both teams generating opportunities in the opening frame, the one goal lead would carry into the first intermission.
The middle frame saw the intensity ratchet up. Merritt doubled their lead when Steven Foster, assisted by Sam Giangualano and Jobie Siemens, scored to make it 2-0 just under one minute into the frame.
But the Cents’ celebration was short-lived, though, as the Grizzlies were determined to fight back. The home team responded just four minutes later with back-to-back goals to even things up at the Revelstoke Forum.
Revelstoke kept showing their resilience and potted two more goals by the end of the middle frame, turning the game to 4-2.
The final period saw more back-and-forth action, with both teams shooting 13 times on goal.
Despite being down by two, Merritt refused to back down. Poulin fired a quick shot past the Grizzlies goalie, scoring his second goal of the night.
The goal gave the Cents some life, as they pressed for the equalizer in the remaining minutes of the final frame. Despite the opportunities, no other shot found the back of the net. The Merritt Centennials fell 4-3 to the Revelstoke Grizzlies in their first game of the playoffs. Saturday, March 1 – Merritt Centennials 0, Revelstoke Grizzlies 3
The Merritt Centennials could not slow down the Revelstoke Grizzlies for the second game of the playoffs series, as they fell 3-0.
Revelstoke opened the scoring at the Revelstoke Forum with Jake Phillips-Watts, who scored the only goal of the period.
The lead would carry through the middle frame, and despite the Cents pressuring the Revelstoke goalie with good opportunities to tie the game, none found the back of the net.
The Grizzlies continued to press and managed to extend their lead when Daniel Wittenberg, assisted by Jake Neufeld and Nathan White, scored to make it 2-0.
The game remained 2-0 until Jake Phillips-Watts potted his second goal of the night by the end of the second period, making it 3-0.
The final frame saw more back-and-forth action from both teams. Despite strong pressure from the Centennials as they outshot Revelstoke with 11 shots on goal in the frame, Merritt was unable to get a goal of their own.
The Merritt Centennials fell 3-0 to the Revelstoke Grizzlies in the second game of the playoffs series. Monday, March 3 – Merritt Centennials 2, Revelstoke Grizzlies 6
The Merritt Centennials’ playoff hopes took another hit as they dropped a tough 6-2 decision to the Revelstoke Grizzlies in game 3 of their playoff series.
The loss left the Centennials trailing 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, with their backs against the wall as they looked to avoid elimination.
The Cents came out of the gate strong and set the pressure on Revelstoke as they opened the scoring just over two minutes into the game with Maxim Radmanovich.
The home team’s celebration was short-lived as the Grizzlies added a goal of their own just two minutes after in a power play.
The game remaind deadlocked 1-1 until Revelstoke managed to add another goal close to the end of first frame and carried the one-goal lead into the first intermission.
The visiting team added more pressure to Merritt in the second frame as they increased their lead to 3-1. Despite the seven shots on goal for the Cents, none could find the back of the net.
Merritt came back to the final frame determined to
turn the game around in their favour, but it seemed as if it wasn’t their lucky night.
Revelstoke added two back-to-back goals just two minutes apart from each other, adding to the pressure on the Cents’ player and making the score 5-1.
A shy goal from Alex Cordero in mid final frame brought some gas to Cents players.
Despite the 15 shots on goal against nine shots for Revelstoke in the final frame, Merritt couldn’t find the back of the net.
The final dagger occured when Grizzlies’ Weston Field scored an empty net goal for a final score of 6-2.
Game four of the series went on March 4 following press dealine.
PHOTO: LAISA CONDE
Teck Cup dream seems distant as the Merritt Centennials struggle to get past the Revelstoke Grizzlies in playoffs series.
FEEL THE ICE MAGIC AT NICOLA VALLEY SKATING CLUB’S SHOW
LAISA CONDE
editor@merrittherald.com
The Nicola Valley Skating Club is gearing up for its highly anticipated ice show, set to take place on March 15.
The event, which takes place at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, promises to be a celebration of local talent, featuring performances from nearly all of the club’s skaters as it offers something for everyone—an evening of incredible skating and a chance to support the growth of the club’s programs.
Coach Diana Lorenz shared her enthusiasm for the event.
“It features just about all our skaters from our programs. We offer six programs, and five of those will be represented in the show.
I’m not sure exactly how many kids that is, but it’s quite a lot.”
With a wide variety of skaters taking part, the performance will showcase a range of skills—from beginners in the Learn to Skate program to more advanced athletes in the competitive programs.
The event will highlight the progress and dedication of every participant, no matter their skill level.
This ice show is also an important fundraising event for the Nicola Valley Skating Club, which relies on community support to continue offering quality skating programs.
The funds raised will help support the club’s future initiatives and ensure that local skaters have the resources they need to succeed.
“We hope a lot of community members come out to inspire new and up-and-coming skaters to join the skating club,” Lorenz said.
The event will offer a diverse range of performances, with each skater proud to showcase their growth over the past year.
The evening will be an opportunity for the community to witness the hard work and dedication of the young athletes, all while enjoying the fun and excitement of a live skating performance.
Tickets for the event will be available at the door, with afford-
able pricing for everyone. Adult and senior tickets will be $10, while children aged 6 and up can attend for just $5. Programs will be available for $2 each, providing valuable information about the skaters and performances.
In a show of appreciation for their support, parents and guardians of skaters will be granted free entry, as they volunteer their time to help organize and run the event.
This event also serves as a reminder of the close-knit, supportive community that makes the Nicola Valley Skating Club such a special place. Families, friends, and volunteers all come together to create a memorable experience for the skaters and the audience.
Lorenz highlighted the importance of this collective effort.
“Come and enjoy a great night of skating from all our kids, and see how talented and how much progress they’ve made this year,” she explained.
“They’re happy and proud to showcase their performances.”
MERRITT ATHLETES EXCEL AT KAMLOOPS JIU-JITSU TOURNAMENT
LAISA CONDE
editor@merrittherald.com
Merritt athletes are celebrating a series of impressive performances in a jiu-jitsu tournament in Kamloops this past weekend.
According to coach Matt Wycotte, the invite-only tournament had kids from Vernon, Kelowna, Merritt, Barriere and Kamloops.
Since it was a points tournament, matches could be won by getting points with dominant positions or by getting a submission.
“A highlight of the tournament for our team was Cash Lambert, a 16-year-old kid that had no kids in his division and got moved up to the 180 lbs division and got a silver medal while highlighting some very high level set ups to an ankle lock submission.” the coach added.
The results as follow:
Alexis Dawson – gold in the GI division and gold in the NOGI division
Skyler Vilac – gold in the GI division and bronze in the NOGI division
Fawn Bob – gold in GI division
Arial George – Bronze in the GI division
Liam McDougal-Shuter – bonze in GI division and bronze in NOGI division
Cash Lambert – silver in the NOGI division.
FILE
This picture is from the gala carnival held back in 2017 at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena in Merritt. Entitled ‘Superheroes vs Villains’, the delightful event showcased over 40 young performers from the Merritt area and beyond.
PHOTOS: ADELPHI GRAPPLING Merritt athletes excel at Kamloops jiu-jitsu tournament over the weekend.
NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY
27, 2023.
MARCH HONOURS MIGUEL MACK, RCMP
CONTINUE PURSUIT OF LEADS
LAISA CONDE editor@merrittherald.com
Feb. 27 marked the two-year anniversay of Miguel Mack’s disappearance.
Mack, last seen on February 27, 2023, has yet to be located, and authorities are renewing their appeal for any information that could help solve the case.
His sudden and unexplained disappearance was quickly deemed suspicious, prompting a specialized investigation by the Major Crime Unit.
Since then, the RCMP has launched extensive efforts to locate him, including the deployment of police dog services, air services, and forensic identification specialists with remotely piloted aircraft systems.
Alongside law enforcement, local volunteers and Mack’s family have organized several large-scale searches, but despite these efforts, he remains missing.
The Southeast District Major Crime Unit has now taken full responsibility for the case and continues to work diligently to uncover any leads.
The BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit is still actively investigating the mysterious disappearance of Miguel Mack, who has been missing for nearly two years.
Inspector Brent Novakoski, officer in charge of the BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit, urged those who may have information about Mack’s disappearance to come forward.
“There are people out there with knowledge of Miguel Mack’s disappearance, and we are asking those individuals to come forward and contact the police,” he said.
“This investigation remains a priority for the Southeast District Major Crime Unit and the Merritt RCMP, and we will continue to pursue all leads.”
In the midst of the ongoing investigation, Mack’s family remains hopeful that the community will provide valuable information.
On March 1, Mack’s family hosted a march around Merritt to honour Miguel. It was attended by over 30 community members who continue to seek for answers on his disappearance.
Anyone with information regarding Miguel Mack’s disappearance is urged to contact the Southeast District Major Crime Unit tip line at 1-877-987-8477. Authorities are continuing their efforts to locate Miguel and bring closure to his family and the community.
Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911
Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464
Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899
Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919
Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.
St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772
Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.
Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735
Service Time every Sunday - 10 am
Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268
Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Times: Sunday 10 am
Community members joined the Mack family on March 1 to march in honour of Miguel Mack, who disappeared two years ago on Feb.
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DEADLINE: MONDAY at noon. for that week’s paper.
InLovingMemory LAURAJOHNSON
ThankyoutoGillisHousestaffforcaringfor LauraJohnsonforthelastyears,and especiallythelastfewweeks.
&DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY
Some needs of mourning: accept the reality of death– let yourself feelthe painofloss–rememberthe personwho died – developa new identity–expectallkinds offeelings.
www.merritthospice.org
Email:merritthospice@shaw.ca
Joseph“Len”Leonard AlphonseParé
January25,1931-February23,2025
LeonardParépassedawaypeacefullyinhis cherishedhomeonFebruary23,2025.
Shepassed awaysuddenlyonFebruary23 andisnowsafeinthearmsofJesus. Arnold Johnson
HOURS: FullTime–35hrs/wk
Caroline Mae Taylor
Atruejackofalltrades,Lenworemanyh throughouthislife—heavy-dutymachineoperator, wellwitcher, hockeycoach,musician,andmastertinkerer. However, hismost treasuredrolewasthatofa devotedfamilyman.
Helived alifedefinedbycuriosity,hardwork,anddetermination.Whether mastering anewskillorsharinghiswisdom,heapproachedeverychallengewith humorandresilience,leavinga lastingimpactonthosewhoknewhim.
Lenwaspredeceasedbyhisparents,AlecandAlmaParé,hissiblings Lawrence,Raymond,andMargariette,andhisyoungestson,Kevin.
DESCRPTION: ReportingtotheSocialDevelopmentCoordinator,theCommunityConnections Navigatorwillberesponsibleforhelpingcommunitymembersnavigatechallengeswhile supportingthewellbeingofindividualsandfamiliesinaholisticmanner.TheCommunity ConnectionsYouthNavigatormustuseacollaborativeapproachwitheachcommunitymember tosupporteachpersoninachievingtheirgoals.
October 26, 1939-February 22, 2025
SpecificDutiesandResponsibilities:
PerformsalldutiesandresponsibilitiesinaccordancewiththeColdwaterIndianBand policies,standards,andprocedures,andasdirectedbytheFinanceCoordinator.Maintains confidentialityinallmatterstotheaffairsoftheColdwaterIndianBand.
Heleavesbehind alastinglegacy,carriedonbyhisbelovedwifeof72 years,Molly,hischildrenLynn(Michael)andLorne(Karen),aswellashis grandchildrenTiffanee(Brad),Lee(Ashley),Laine(Marissa),Brett(Pan),Drew (Amanda),Courtney(Kyle),Kendra(Scott),and Taylor(Justin).Heisalso lovinglyrememberedbymanygreat-grandchildrenandhissistersLorenaMoore andElaineRowell..
ThoughthesunmayhavesetforLeonard,thecountlessmemoriesandlove hesharedwillcontinuetoshine,keepingthelivesofthosewhoknewhim alittle Sonny.
Thefamilyhaschosennottoholda memorialatthistime.
PleaseforwardResumeandCoverLetterto: CynthiaL.Jager,SocialDevelopmentCoordinator,cynthia@coldwaterband.org POBox4600,Merritt,BC,V1K1B8 ColdwaterIndianBand
1.Provideinformationandlinkagetoappropriatecommunityservices; 2.Guideandmotivateduringimportantperiodsofdevelopmentintheirwellnessjourney; 3.AcceptreferralsfromCommunity,SocialWorkers,othercommunityservicesandetc.; 4.Outreachandengagementinthewiththecommunity;
5.Developandmaintainparticipantdrivenintegratedwellnessplans; 6.Advocateforparticipants’needs;
7.Supportparticipantstobuildcapacityinareassuchascommunication, self-advocacy andrelationships;
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Caroline Mae Taylor (Holt). She is survived by her son Ward (Tina) Taylor, Merritt, and daughter Jan (Ian Mackenzie) Taylor. She will also be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Krystin (Ryan) Tourand Merritt, Shelby (Shelby Naylor) Taylor Penticton, Kayla Taylor, Ariel Taylor and great grandchildren Hudson and Hazel Tourand. As well as her brother Robert Holt.
8.Participatewithteaminprovidingdeliverableactivitiesorinformation.
9.Participateinteammeetings; 10.Maintainaccuraterecords; 11.Otherrelateddutiesasassigned.
RequirementofCommunityConnectionsNavigator
•DiplomaorDegreeinSocialWork(otherrelatedfieldswillbeconsidered);
•ExperienceworkingwithFirstNationsCommunity;
Caroline (Carol) graduated from Kam High in 1957 and senior matriculation in 1958. Where she played center for the Red Angles’ Basketball team for 5 years. Carol went on to nursing school and graduated from St. Paul’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1961, retiring as the Merritt public Health Nurse in 1997.
•AccesstoreliablevehicleandcurrentDriver’slicense; •PassableCriminalRecordCheckandDriver’sAbstract; •Ableandwillingtoworksomeeveningsandweekends.
More recently, Carol enjoyed her friends and views at Riverbend Seniors Community in Kamloops
Deadlineforsubmissions:January26th,2024
Onlythoseapplicantsselectedforaninterviewwillbecontacted.
SUDOKU
column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.
State with confidence
River in NE
Not narrow
Lacking social
Amount of time
Toadstools
1. Brushed aside
2. Water sprite
3. Ones to look up to 4. Monetary units 5. A number everyone has 6. Marine invertebrate
7. One who takes you to court
8. Indicates outer 9. Parallelograms 10. Strains 11. Cross
21. High school dances
22. Utilize 23. Challenged 25. One-sided 27. Showing extreme greed
31. Potted plants
34. Everyone has one
35. Lake in Botswana
38. E.T. rode in one
39. Juniors’ parents
12. A way to remove
13. Some pages are dog-__
18. Ukraine city
24. A citizen of Denmark
26. Summer month (abbr.)
28. Hindu queens
29. Jewelry brand
30. Fictional rider of Rohan 31. Wet dirt 32. Russian city
41. Small amount
42. Mother of Perseus
44. Ornamental box
45. Gov’t investigators
46. Uncertain
49. A cotton fabric with a satiny finish
51. The vast grassy plains in S. America
55. Your consciousness of your own identity
33. Observed 36. Furious 37. Drivers’ licenses 39. Musical composition 40. Auction 43. They __ 45. Women 47. Inspire with love 48. Japanese ankle sock 49. Appears 50. Old World lizard
56. Noted consumer advocate
60. Spanish sports club
61. Body part
62. Tractability
64. Woman (French)
65. Ready and willing to be taught
52. The leading performer 53. Type of protein 54. Pennsylvania town 57. Art __: around 1920
58. __ Blyton, children’s author
59. Abnormal breathing 63. A place to sleep
66. Muslim ruler title 67. Depressed 68. Gradually gave way 69. Clear-thinking
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Community members joined the Mack family on March 1 to march in honour of Miguel Mack, who disappeared two years ago on Feb. 27, 2023.
PHOTO/MATTHIAS WIEGAND