Merritt Herald February 17, 2022

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 •

themerrittherald •

> www.merrittherald.com

FREE

AGRICULTURE DAY In honour of the nationwide Agriculture Day on Feb. 22, the Herald gives a nod to the local businesses in Merritt and the Nicola Valley that help keep farming and ranching a staple of our community.

Dozens of marchers walked the streets of Merritt on Feb. 14 to raise awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Matthias Wiegend/Submitted PAGE 26

FOR THOSE LOST Merritt Funeral Chapel

Celebrating each life like no other

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929.

Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri.: 10:00am - 3:00pm • Wednesday 1:00pm - 6:00pm / 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

On-call 24 Hrs. a day: 250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 • www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com

2 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts providing you with the highest level of care.

250.378.6941 https://legacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 #211-1703 Menzies Street

NEW MLS#165753

Karen Bonneteau

Janis Post

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250-315-5178

250-315-3672

1264 Houston Street

SOLD $159,000

Investors or First Time Buyers take note. 1 bedroom 1 bath 585 Sq Ft. second floor apartment at the Nicola Apartments. Close to store for shopping and bus routes. Updated Patio doors with good size deck.

Tenant currently pays $725.00/month plus utilities month to month.

Minimum 24-48hrs notice required.

MLS#162927

$219,000

Looking for an investment, downsizing, or a first time home buyer?

This cute 3 bed, 1 bath mobile home is located close to downtown & all amenities on it’s own lot. There have been updates throughout the years such as laminate flooring, paint, brand new toilet, updated plumbing & a new HW tank. The yard is well taken care of w/ a storage shed & open parking in the front.

Ray Thompson

Brenda Thompson

Valerie Kynoch

Sarah Dickie

Jordyn Chenier

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

250-315-3377

250-315-8377

202-2295 Blair Street

MLS#165555

$239,900

One of a kind! Totally renovated & move-in ready 2 bdrm, 1 bath Sandpiper upper corner apartment is just waiting for you. This home has been renovated in the last few years with new windows, including sun protection in the large front window, new Mill Creek kitchen cabinets with appliances included, custom built-in cabinets for your living room, new flooring, new light fixtures, new updated bathroom.

$280,000

1525 May Street

SOLD $335,000

This is a 3 level, 5-bedroom home with major upgrades including: new roof (summer 2021), new h/w tank, new furnace with central air conditioning, new main water line to the house and a new fence that surrounds the entire back yard with some new windows. Very nice large back sundeck looks over a beautiful private back yard.

1926 1st Ave

Each office is independently owned and operated

2140 Taylor Place

101-2514 Spring Bank Ave

SOLD

SOLD MLS#164885

$425,000

HUGE house! HUGE flat lot! This 2 level, 7 bed, 2 bath home is centrally located & allows for easy walking to parks, golf & shopping. House has all new paint throughout, HW tank 2015, furnace 2019, wood burning f/p upstairs, roughed in 2nd f/p downstairs. Private yard.

Very nice 2 bed, 1 bath home located in a cul-de-sac on a quiet street, within walking distance to downtown Merritt amenities.

The home has a galley kitchen w/ lots of cabinets & open to your dining area & front entry, sliding glass doors lead to your very private patio & great fenced backyard.

MLS164460 $599,000 Beautiful 4 bed, 3 bath rancher style house w/ fully finished basement in strata development. Home offers open concept design w/ gorgeous double-sided fireplace, large living room & kitchen.

1776 Juniper Drive

441 Kane Valley Road

1963 Greaves Ave

MLS#162954

$420,000

SOLD MLS#164050

$829,000

BEAUTY WITHIN and WITHOUT. Thoughtful landscaping on this .34+ private property has transformed this PANORAMIC VIEW LOT into an outdoor oasis. Abundant space in a level fenced yard for all your entertaining and family needs.

MLS#165139 $1,150,000 BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY PROPERTY! Usable fairly level approx. 10 acres. Lovely 3-4 bed, 3 bath, bright modern getaway, launch pad, or family home w/ 2 wood stoves & great above ground pool.

SL12 6528 Waterside Trail

MLS#164854

$275,000

Welcome to Waterside Trail – a new bare land waterfront strata community in the beautiful Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake, one of BC’s premiere locations. You will enjoy year-round recreation w/ easy access to crown land, beaches, private dock & all the watersports you can imagine.

Let one of our Professional Realtors discuss buying and selling options that are best suited for you and your families needs.

Welcome to Waterside Trail – a new bare land waterfront strata community in the beautiful Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake, one of BC’s premiere locations. You will enjoy year-round recreation w/ easy access to crown land, beaches, private dock & all the watersports you can imagine.

MLS#165357

250-280-0835

250-280-2353

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

778-709-0363

SL10 6528 Waterside Trail

SOLD

SL13 6528 Waterside Trai

MLS#164852

250-280-0994

Stephen Holbrook

SOLD MLS#165263 $1,200,000 Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath, home on a private .41acre lot, tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac, w/ an inviting heated inground pool & detached 26’X40’ insulated, heated & wired shop/garage.

2131 Taylor Place

$280,000

Welcome to Waterside Trail – a new bare land waterfront strata community in the beautiful Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake, one of BC’s premiere locations. You will enjoy year-round recreation w/ easy access to crown land, beaches, private dock & all the watersports you can imagine.

1463 Duncan Street

SOLD MLS#165358

$300,000

Beautiful half duplex with large fenced yard in Merritt. This property comes with a large driveway with room for a RV or other toys! Located on a quiet cul-de-sac within walking distance to a school, field and playground. This 3 bedroom home has bathrooms on both floors and a view of the mountains from the master bedroom.

2188 Nicola Avenue

SOLD MLS#165315

$340,000

Adorable, cute and cozy describe this 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom heritage style rancher, located within walking distance of downtown Merritt.

The home features a new roof in 2021, original hardwood flooring, updated vinyl windows, 9ft ceilings, updated bathroom, 2 bedrooms, a large living room, separate dining area with free standing wood stove.

1732 Granite Avenue

NEW

NEW MLS#165618

MLS# 164853

$659,000

Beautiful family home on a quiet cul-de-sac. This home has 6 bedrooms and 3.5 baths total, featuring a 2 bedroom 1 bathroom legal suite with separate entrance on the main floor. There has been lots of updates throughout such as some new flooring, new kitchen counter tops, newer appliances, hot water tank and roof around 6 years old.

4520 Eight Mile Road

MLS#165764

$689,000

Very nice 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom family home located on a double lot in a great location, with an inground pool and private yard. The home features vaulted ceilings in the living room, open to the family room, kitchen with lots of cabinets and eating island and dining room, lots of bright windows, master bedroom offers sliding glass doors to your entertaining patio with in-ground pool and beautiful mature landscaping.

2760 Petit Creek Road

NEW MLS#165641

$1,390,000

Spectacular custom home on 20 acres with a year-round creek! This stunning property is very private and only 12 minutes from Merritt just off the coveted Mamit Lake Road. Wrap around deck and over 2600 square feet on the main floor with high vaulted ceilings, open concept d/r, l/r and kitchen with a gorgeous wood burning fireplace. Quartz counters and a large island.

MLS#165449

$3,250,000

Sprawling 2700 sq ft Rancher Home on 119 +/- acres of level hay land. Home has been completely updated including new addition in 2016. Enjoy comfortable living while working/living the ranching lifestyle. House features large country kitchen and dining room, 4 large bedrooms, blaze king wood stove, 2 living areas and large deck with hot tub to enjoy the peacefulness of the night sky. Owners have constructed a 5400 sq ft open barn with attached 1000 sq ft finished/heated workshop .

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 3

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FLOOD FALL-OUT

Red Cross support access frustrating some evacuees

INSIDE THE HERALD

Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------ 25 Residents who remain displaced and reliant on Red Cross supports following November’s Classifieds ---------- 27-30 flooding event have raised concerns about the uncertain nature of continued funding.

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD. COM Following the extreme flooding event that saw the entire City of Merritt evacuated in mid-November of 2021, the majority of Merritt’s roughly 7,000 residents have been able to return home. However, there are as many as 900 residents still displaced from their homes.

These residents have been dependent on support from the Canadian Red Cross with the organization assisting with hotel rooms and billeting as well as funding for basic needs such as food and clothing.

However, the Red Cross announced recently that despite the many people in the Nicola Valley who still have no home to return to, its funding supports would be coming to an end on Feb. 15.

“On Tuesday we had a notice taped to our hotel room doors, telling us that we had until the 15th to come up with accommodation because Red Cross was cutting off funding for our hotel rooms,” said Kimberley Jylha, a Merrittonian whose home in the Spring Island trailer park was heavily damaged by the Coldwater River.

One of those who faced eviction from his hotel room presented the note that had been taped to the door.

“All of our rooms are now open for other reservations with a Feb. 15 checkin date,” reads the notice.

“Should you wish to make your own reservation with us, please do so ASAP otherwise the room will be rented out to contractors calling in and reserving online. There are seven days until the 15th and the rooms are already being booked.”

Jylha is one of many who faced housing uncertainty should her hotel room be given over to someone else.

“A lot of us are lower income or fixed income moderate income,” said Jylha.

“My hotel room alone, one room, is over $3,000 a month. We can’t afford that, we don’t have housing in Merritt to find alternate housing. Right now, my house is a shell and if something doesn’t happen, I’m going to be forced to move into my trailer with mud and mold, no walls, no toilets, no sinks, nothing, just to have somewhere to stay.”

Jylha said that she does not even have a bed to sleep in and would have to sleep on a mattress on the floor, but because her trailer has electrical power it would be preferable to sleeping on the street or in a vehicle as she could at least plug in a heater.

“There’s people from the Lytton fire who are still being covered, which, I’m so glad they are, but how is fire different than flood?”

Jylha questioned.

“We all want to go home, none of us want to stay in hotels with our cats and our dogs and our spouses and our kids and the few boxes

of belongings we have left.”

Jylha’s home will likely not be livable until spring, or possibly beyond, dependent not only on weather and Disaster Financial Assistance, but also on the availability of tradespeople.

Through her inquiries, Jylha found that there is a lengthy waitlist for contractors, plumbers and electricians.

“Even if I had a huge pocketbook, I can’t even get those people into my home to fix it,” said Jylha.

“It’s not just me, there’s over 900 families that are in the same boat.”

This includes Jylha’s mother, Teri McMillan, who also received a notice warning of an impending eviction from her hotel room.

“Every time you think you’re getting back on your feet they kick you in the gut,” said McMillan.

According to the Government of BC website, the Red Cross raised more than $30 million in donations to the Floods and Extreme Weather Appeal.

Thanks to donation matching from both the federal and provincial governments, this resulted in a total of more than $90 million raised. As of Jan 17, 2022, the Red Cross had distributed more than $17 million in evacuation-related emergency financial assistance to more than 7,200 eligible households.

Displaced Merritt resident Wolf Grabner questions why, with seemingly more than $70 million

remaining, he and other evacuees are facing homelessness.

“Those donations were raised for flood victims and now they can’t afford to put people up in hotels?” said Grabner.

“Explain that to me. I’m out on the street now. They say my home is livable but I have no gas, no sewer, no water, nothing.”

“I feel like we’re out here alone,” added Deidra DeWolfe, a local single mother with a 16 year old son.

“Where’s the support, everyone else is living their lives and we’re all forgotten here.”

DeWolfe said she has not even been permitted to return to her former home since the flooding.

“My landlord gave me my money back and said you can no longer live here,” said DeWolfe.

“Everything is gone.

Everything I’ve earned in my entire life after being a single mom, I lost everything I earned, everything I worked hard for. It’s all gone.”

DeWolfe and her son awoke at 4am on Nov. 15 to water spilling into the basement suite they shared and had only moments to evacuate. DeWolfe’s son had to physically help her up the stairs, wading through knee deep water with a current like a river, after which they climbed onto the roof of a friend’s car and waited an hour for rescue.

See ‘EVACUEES’ Page 5

LOCAL PROJECTS WE’VE HELPED FUND

is a charitable society dedicated, through fund raising, to the enhancement of healthcare in the Nicola Valley since 1984.

♥ Hospital Emergency Equipment: Renovation and Expansion Project ♥ The Berta Fraser Centre at Gillis House ♥ Adult Day Care Bus ♥ Merritt Hospice Society All money raised/donated stays in our Nicola Valley.

WEATHER Feb. 18: Partly Cloudy 7°/1°C Feb. 19: Rain 6°/-1°C Feb. 20: Snow 3°/-6°C Feb. 21: Partly Cloudy 0°/-12°C Feb. 22: Partly Cloudy -1°/-12°C Feb. 23: Partly Cloudy 2°/-8°C

Online merrittherald.com

JURASSIC WORLD

The trailer for the new Jurassic World Dominion movie has been released, featuring some scenery and faces that will no doubt be familiar to Merrittonians.

Search ‘JURASSIC’

HEAD START Funding has been secured to open a new Aboriginal Head Start at NVIT which will provide 28 spaces to infants and toddlers from Indigenous families, with a focus on culturally appropriate activities and learning.

Search ‘HEAD START’

IF YOU’D LIKE TO DONATE Donations can be done on-line at nvhcef.com, through

250-315-1832 or by mail to Box 1423, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

4 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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Workforce Skills

Training Program

MERRITT

SUPPORT CENTRE formerly, the Resilience Centre has moved.

You are you welcome to visit us.

1700 Garcia St. Unit 102, Merritt, BC

5 Sessions Friday Mornings 9AM – 12Noon March 4 – April 1, 2022 Registration is free. Pre-registration is required by February 28, 2022.

Participants who attend all 5 sessions will receive a certificate of completion.

250-378-3300 info@nvit.ca https://www.nvit.ca/home/continuingstudies.htm We gratefully acknowledge financial support for this program from the Province of BC.

If you have been impacted by the Coldwater Flood, there may be assistance and supports available to you.

#MERRITTHOME Visit: www.merritt.ca

Returning Home | Building Better

Call: 1.877.655.0341

Email: returnhome@merritt.ca

Shop Local

and save on gas & time You win, no doubt NO filling up the tank to go shopping NO wasting an hours driving NO worries about crashing on the highway

City Council Meetings have resumed in-person and residents are strongly encouraged to watch online via www.merritt.ca Tuesday, February 22 - Regular Council Meeting - 6 pm

Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre BRONZE MEDALLION - Cost: $205 March 21st- 24th: 12 pm – 6pm

FAMILY DAY FREE SWIM

Join us at the Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre for an afternoon of fun with your family.

Sunday February 20th 12 pm – 4pm FREE ADMISSION

BRONZE CROSS - Cost: $165 March 28th -31st: 12 pm – 6pm SPRING BREAK LESSONS 9:00am – 12:00pm March 21st – March 25th March 28th – April 1st Call the NVAC to register

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Evacuees face homelessness From Page 3

A flood victim holds the eviction notice that was taped to his hotel room door.

“That day will never leave my mind,” said DeWolfe.

“I’ve been very dependent (on Red Cross)... I

was in between careers and I’m still in the middle of that, so I’m not working right now. I was just getting back on

my feet from COVID, being laid off, and this is just the cherry on top and it’s not a good cherry it’s a rotten cherry.”

Following a gathering of a handful of those affected by the ending of Red Cross supports, and a demand for answers, the Canadian Red Cross issued a statement that supports would be extended until the end of March.

“The Red Cross is helping people from eligible households who are unable to re-enter their homes after the flooding with financial support to help cover their commercial accommodations and basic needs

while they transition to longerterm housing,” reads the statement.

“Support for accommodations is currently available up until March 31st, and provides individuals and families impacted by the floods with the time they need to find longer term housing options that meet their needs.”

However, Jylha and others are concerned that in the meantime their rooms may have already been rented to new occupants. And they also question if their housing situations remain unchanged by March 31, will they once again face the same situation.

Fir Rd. residents ask City to safeguard their homes council at the regular Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD. council meeting of Feb. 8, requesting that the COM City consider potential Residents of Merritt’s ways to reinforce and protect the clay banks Fir Rd., located in the of the Coldwater River Collettville neighbournear their homes. hood, presented a Although residents petition to Mayor and

of Fir Rd. were not directly impacted by the extreme flooding event of Nov. 2021, they have raised concerns about possible secondary damage, particularly as the change of seasons and

See ‘BANK’ Page 9

Johnny’s on the Rez

us n i o J the for use ca

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 5

The COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR comes to Merritt once again The Nicola Valley Food Bank is encouraging Merrittonians to once again team up, fund raise, and walk in the second annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY).

This family-friendly, winterrific fundraising walk with a virtual option available that takes place on the evening of February 26, 2022. The event will be starting at the Food Bank, and teams can choose to walk either two or five kilometers to support people experiencing hunger, hurt, and homelessness in Merritt.

For more information, please visit https://cnoy.org/location/nicolavalley

CONTRACTING COMPANY

WORK WITH A PROFESSIONAL GENERAL CONTRACTOR If you’ve been looking for a general contractor that can work on your property, allow the professionals at Green Contracting to be of assistance. Our company offers high-quality services to customers in the Merritt area. We take on many types of projects, so rely on us if you’re interested in:

• Home construction • Kitchen renovation • Home renovation • Hardwood & Tile • Bathroom renovation Flooring

• Concrete Driveways • Concrete Decks • Painting

Our knowledgeable staff can create a detailed plan based on your ideas, and we’ll be straightforward about our pricing. From start to finish, we want you to feel well-informed about the construction process. That’s why we’ll be happy to answer your questions. Our team will work hard to deliver a finished product on time and within budget.

Green Contracting Company is a dependable option whenever you require the proficiency of a general contractor. We’re proud to serve residents of Merritt, BC, and we aim to be courteous and efficient.

CALL US TODAY to find out more information 250-937-9585 https://greencontracting.ca

COME IN TO SEE OUR NEW PRODUCTS! Great Gift Ideas • Gas & Diesel • Snacks • Novelty & Gift Items • Cold Drinks • Ice • Photo Copying• Faxing • Lotto Centre Monday - Friday: 6 am - 9 pm • Weekends & Holidays: 7 am - 9 pm

PIZZA & SUB SHOP: PIZZA, SUBS, BAKERY, DELI and DAILY SPECIALS Pizza Deliveries: 4:30 - 8 pm • 250-315-0087 Store: 250-378-9557

Located 7 km from town on Highway 8 West

#154 Hwy 8, Merritt

6 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

EDITORIAL

A farewell to Merritt It seems a little odd to put into words on a page, but this will be my last edition as the editor of the Merritt Herald.

I have taken JAKE COURTEPATTE up a similar HERALD role in the EDITOR larger market of Kelowna, though I have to admit that leaving this desk will not be easy.

The Merritt Herald is the dictionary definition of small town journalism. The office is a team of four, two of which make up the editorial staff.

Everyone seems to have a hand in each aspect of making sure that papers are to press on time to be on doorsteps on Thursdays.

Yet, the team has always seemed to make due with our skeleton staff. I can say with confidence that I am proud of what we have produced in my two-plus years as the editor of this publication.

I would like to use this column to give a special thank you to our publisher and fearless leader, Theresa Arnold.

As I mentioned, everyone in this office works together to create a well-oiled machine, and Theresa more than anybody.

So, dear readers, give a warm welcome to the new editor of the Merritt Herald, Izaiah Reyes, who will be taking up the position next week. Merritt may be a small town, but if there is anything that the past two years has shown us, it is certainly full of stories to tell.

I am hoping, in the next few days, to get to say some more goodbyes, though with family still living in town, Merritt hasn’t gotten rid of me just yet.

Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

MERRITT HERALD

VIEWPOINT

www.merrittherald.com

Phoenix Aspinall, Grade 10

Students, parents, and teachers: submit your student art to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured each week! Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis.

Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

Sales Representative Office Administrator Ken Couture kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com 250-378-4241 Making Advertising Work For You.

2090 Granite Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241 Fax (250) 378-6818

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher.

This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

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THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 7

OPINION

Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com

LETTERS to the editor

New things on the horizon for local 4-H club Editor, Hi, my name is Morgan, I am the club reporter for the Grassland Homesteaders 4-H Club this year. I picked this job because I thought that it would be fun.

I am excited about 4-H this year because I like trying new things and meeting new people, and I like to work on different projects.

Please keep watching the Merritt Herald for more information on fun things our club is doing.

Morgan Club Reporter, Grassland Homesteaders 4-H Club

From the Herald archives: Feb., 1989

NICOLA RANCH SOLD The sale of Nicola Ranch has finally gone through, according to ranch manager Jens Larsen.

“Effective Jan. 30, 1988 Nicola Ranch was purchased

by Coquihalla Developments Corp. from the previous owner, Nicola Ranch Ltd,” said Larsen.

The new company, owned by the Liu family of Taiwan, will continue to operate the ranch under the name Nicola when a situation “seriously threatens the ability of Ranch.

MERN220217_A The ranch was the Government of Canada to preserve the soverreportedly sold for eignty, security and territorial integrity of Canada” more than $5 mil& when the situation “cannot be effectively dealt lion. with under any other law of Canada.”

The last reference is of particular importance: that “cannot be effectively dealt with under any other law of Canada.”

As all Canadians will know prior to the Emergency Act being invoked police were able to peacefully clear the Freedom protest that was occurring on the Ambassador Bridge under exist- The Merritt Herald ing Canadian laws. welcomes your letters, In summary, much as the Canadian Civil on any subject, Liberties Association has also concluded, PM addressed to the editor.

Trudeau has “not met the threshold necessary to Letters must be signed invoke the Emergencies Act”. and include the writer’s My thoughts? name and address.

Aside from the fact that it is well established that Letters may be edited existing Canadian Laws can deal with protests, in for length, taste and reality this is largely an Ottawa problem where clarity. Please keep the Ottawa police for whatever reason have either letters to 300 words or less. Email been unable or unwilling to deal with. letters to: Now many Canadians will be subject to the Emergencies Act for what we hope will be a short newsroom@ period of time largely to solve an Ottawa problem. merrittherald. com.

ALBAS: What’s the plan in Ottawa?

It was two weeks ago that Canada’s Chief Public Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam stated: “all existing public health policies, including provincial vaccine passports, need to be re-examined — because DAN ALBAS it’s clear that Canada VIEW FROM and the rest of the world THE HILL will be grappling with COVID-19 for months or years to come.”

Unfortunately, we have yet to see any sort of plan for our path forward from this Trudeau Liberal government.

As a result, earlier this week the Conservative opposition tabled the following motion: “That, given that provinces are lifting COVID19 restrictions and that Dr. Theresa Tam has said that all existing public health measures need to be ‘re-evaluated’ so that we can ‘get back to some normalcy’, the House call on the government to table a plan for the lifting of all federal mandates and restrictions.”

This motion did not dictate what that plan should look like only that we should have a plan.

John Isaac

250-378-1586

Johnisaac@telus.net

www.realestatemerritt.com

Ph: 250-378-6181 F: 250-378-6184

www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC

M E R R I T T

It was a motion that Global News Chief Political Correspondent described as a “very reasonable proposition to the Government”.

Sadly, this Government is not, in my view, in a reasonable mood and opposed this motion.

Fortunately, the BLOC was in support of this motion leaving the NDP to be the decider.

I regret to inform you that once again the NDP has sided with the Liberals and opposed this motion.

As you may now be aware, PM Trudeau announced he was invoking the Emergencies Act, which is the replacement for the former War Measures Act. The War Measures Act was only used once outside of wartime by Pierre Elliott Trudeau at the request of the Quebec Government in 1970.

The replacement Emergencies Act has also never been used until PM Trudeau decided to invoke it this week, despite opposition from many provincial Premiers most notably Quebec.

However, the Premiers of BC and Ontario do support the Emergencies Act being used.

What is the Emergencies Act? As the Canadian Civil Liberties Association describes it: “The Emergencies Act can only be invoked

2125 QUILCHENA AVENUE Store front location with long term tenant in residential suite above 4,500 + sq. ft. of retail/ office space. With curb and lane way parking. $699,000

LETTERS POLICY

8 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 Lower Nicola Band School

www.merrittherald.com

LNIB SCHOOL REGISTRATION 2022-2023

THE LOWER NICOLA BAND SCHOOL INVITES ALL CHILDREN (First Nations/Non First Nations) To Register for

“FREE” Daily

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM and SNACK PROGRAM

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT CLIMBING WALL BASKETBALL COURT SPINNER

KINDERGARTEN to Grade 7

• Full-time Kindergarten – must be 5 yrs by Dec 31, 2022 • Bus Services provided to all areas of Merritt.

HEAD START SERVICES: • • • •

3 & 4 year old Program (K4 must be 4 yrs old by Dec. 31, 2022) Home Visiting Program Transportation provided for all Head Start programs Mom’s & Tot’s Services 0 to 6 years old

CURRICULUM: • New BC Curriculum • Nle?kepmx • Cultural Studies • Field Trips • Learning Assistance Program • School supplies provided • SKATING/HOCKEY PROGRAM • Joyful Literacy

FACILITIES: • Full-Size Gymnasium • Library • Baseball/Soccer Field

Education Comes First

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Lower Nicola Band School Ph: 250-378-5527 201 Horn Rd., Merritt, BC

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 9

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Bank stabilization requested

by Fir Road residents

FRIENDS & Neighbours Bass Coast makes flood donation

From Page 5 potential spring freshets draws near.

“The devastating flooding of November 15, 2021 changed the flow of the Coldwater River,” said Kate Harrison, a signee of the petition and resident who presented to council.

“The river is now running directly against the clay banks below Fir Road.

The erosion that this will lead to is threatening public and private property and structures. It is our understanding that, the flooding eroded the land around the Middlesborough Bridge and that area will need to be repaired and fortified in order to support the new bridge.”

The Middlesborough, or Voght St. bridge, was washed out by the high waters and debris flowing down the Coldwater River, collapsing sometime during the night of Nov. 15 and remaining impassable even now, more than 85 days after the event.

“The river’s new course is eroding the clay banks near the

bridge and it is not a matter of if, but when, there will be damage to the land and the roads in that area,” Harrison continued.

“Fir Road is in danger, not only from devastating flooding, but from regular seasonal high water and ice floes. We are asking that while the Middlesborough bridge is being repaired and the surrounding land being fortified, that the clay banks on the Coldwater river will also be protected in the way that is deemed most effective and environmentally responsible.”

Following November’s flooding the City has dedicated significant time and

“It’s a sensible manpower to the approach and I recovery process don’t have any and associated concerns from logistics, with the staff side in City of Merritt CAO Sean Smith exploring that option.” noting that this Several counrequest could be worked into these cillors spoke in favour of the ongoing plans. request put for“Absolutely ward in the letter this is something and petition. that we can “I know that explore,” said erosion in that Smith. area is a concern, He did, however, suggest that and I think that if we don’t do responsibility something we for researching could see heavy potential soludamage and tions be shifted from the Director erosion of the of Public Works road and damand Engineering age to homes, so to the dediI’m happy if we cated recovery can move along team, and also with that section that it possibly as well,” said be decoupled Councillor Adam from the Etchart.

Middlesborough Councillor bridge project Tony Luck made in order to be reference to the included in the fact that erosion much broader and instabilfloodplain discus- ity in the clay sion.

See ’CLAY’ Page 10

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Organizers of Bass Coast, an electronic music and art festival held annually at the Merritt festival grounds, have raised $21,100 to be donated to the Merritt Rotary Disaster Relief Fund and six local Indigenous bands to aid in relief efforts following the devastating flooding of Nov. 2021.

Two charitable initiatives were launched in the wake of the flooding, with the hopes that the Bass Coast community could assist those impacted in the Nicola Valley.

A GoFundMe surpassed its initial fundraising goal of $15,000 to bring in a total $21,100 and the Bass Coast music compilation earlier raised $1,000 for the Nicola Valley Food Bank.

“The Bass Coast community came together to raise funds to support the host town of the festival,” said Bass Coast founders Andrea Graham and

Liz Thomson.

“The generosity of the community was astonishing.”

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bass Coast tickets were set to go on sale in November for the 2022 festival. Out of respect for the natural disaster Merritt found itself enduring, ticket sales were postponed until Feb. 10, 2022.

“We are very pleased to be releasing tickets this week for the upcoming festival in July,” said Graham and Thomson.

“We postponed our original ticket launch in November out of concern for the Merritt community during the unexpected and disastrous floods.”

“The past two years have had plenty of ups and downs,” added Graham.

“Each challenge has presented new opportunities to think creatively and collaboratively. We’re thrilled to be returning in 2022 and connecting further with the Merritt community.”

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10 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Clay banks vulnerable to spring freshet From Page 9 banks area is something that the City had been working on for at least three years, noting that the Ministry of Environment has indicated that without intervention the river will likely continue to move farther west and impact more homes and infrastructure in the area.

“We’ve had a disaster here in Merritt and I think this is a golden opportunity to be able to include this in some of the restoration that’s going to be taking place and building back resiliency in our community,” said Luck.

“I’m going to fully support this and I really look forward to seeing what staff report to us.”

Councillor Kurt Christopherson suggested that, in addition to looking at remediation work in this area, all future developments should consider “the lay of the land” ahead of home construction.

“To be able to look to the future to see whether the areas being built in are indeed wise to build in,” said Christopherson.

Smith was quick to assure that in the City’s updated Official Community Plan (OCP), these geotechnical hazards and concerns are addressed.

The motion that staff explore ways of reinforcing and protecting the clay banks area of the Coldwater River from further erosion and damage was passed unanimously.

WELCOME TO

KINDERGARTEN 2022 STUDENT REGISTRATION The Board of Education of School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) Kindergarten establishes a strong foundation for lifelong learning, as teachers provide dynamic, play-based opportunities to help each child grow and learn. Our child-centered programs develop a sense of well-being and belonging and offer opportunities for exploring, creative play, developing language and literacy while focusing on social responsibility and cultural diversity.

Kindergarten provides our young learners with an enriched learning experience at their own unique developmental level. We look forward to working with each Kindergarten child’s family as we welcome you to your child’s new school community.

Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview of our online registration process.

REGISTRATION SCHEDULE Monday to Friday: March 7 to 18, 2022

For September, 2022

• • • • •

To register, a child must be 5 years of age on, or before, December 31, 2022.

Parents should register their child at the neighbourhood school.

Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview of our online registration process.

If you are unable to register online, please contact your neighbourhood school.

When registering online you will need your child’s Birth Certificate, immunization record, Care Card and proof of address when registering.

• Parents interested in a Kindergarten distance education program for their child, can contact the South Central Interior Distance Education School at 250-378-4245.

• Parents wishing to enrol their child in the French Immersion Program are required to register at Collettville Elementary.

If you have any questions, please contact your neighbourhood school: DIAMOND VALE ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2514 MERRITT BENCH ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2528 MERRITT CENTRAL ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 9931 NICOLA-CANFORD ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2172 COLLETTVILLE ELEMENTARY • 250 - 378 - 2230

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AGM March 7, 2022 at 7 PM Merritt Civic Centre All attendees must show proof of Covid Vaccination and wear masks

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 11

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Snow biker rescued via chopper

Merritt Bread Basket soup Bowl society

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

A man on a snow bike was located by helicopter on Sunday, Feb. 6 after being separated from his group on Mt. Thynne south of Merritt, near Brookmere.

When members of the party could not locate their fellow rider, the decision was made to call in a helicopter from Valley Helicopters for a search of the area, piloted by Jesse Pierce. Merritt Snowmobile Club Vice President Adam Douthwright was also brought in as someone who knows the area well.

The helicopter picked up another member of the missing rider’s party and began a search of the area.

“We flew around to the last point where they had seen him, there were tracks everywhere so it was hard to pick one guy and one track out going nowhere,” said Douthwright.

“We turned and were in the sky, and we started working our way down the swamp and that’s when we found him up on a cliff edge. He ventured off into some unknown territory onto a ridge, but the ter-

rain that he was in he couldn’t navigate back the way he came,” Douthwright continued.

“When you’re

lost and you don’t know where you’re going, you usually stop or you turn around, but the snow was good and you’re out there for the thrill of it, so he just kept going and going and finally he realized I’m not going to get out of here.”

The man was uninjured and in no immediate danger, but began waving his arms at the helicopter to alert the searchers to his position.

The helicopter dropped down low enough for Douthwright to throw out a bottle of Gatorade and inform the man to stay put and wait for help.

Together, Douthwright, Pierce, and the member of the missing man’s party determined the best route to reach the cliff edge and lead

him back down again.

Luckily, the story had a happy ending, as the missing man was located and able to ride off the mountain with his friends unscathed,

but Douthwright says this may not always be the case if people go out into the backcountry unprepared.

“If you’re heading out into the backcountry, first and foremost do you have the gear?” cautioned Douthwright.

This gear includes an avalanche beacon, a probe and a shovel. Also recommended is an ‘AVY’ or avalanche bag, essentially a backpack with a massive balloon that inflates when activated and keeps you floating on top of the snow during an avalanche, rather than being buried.

As cell service in the remote backcountry is not consistent, alternative means of communication are also important.

Douthwright recommends a BCA Link radio.

“It works very well, you can hear it while your sled or your snow bike is running.”

More expensive, but highly effective is an inReach communication device which allows you to text or call for help over satellite and also sends your location coordinates out to searchers.

Anyone who finds themselves in the backcountry whether for work or recreation should carry adequate supplies of food and water, a means of starting a fire and staying warm, as well as a first aid kit.

Knowing where you’re going is paramount to your safety.

“It’s pretty easy to get turned around out there, especially if the weather changes and the fog rolls in,” said Douthwright.

“Being able to pinpoint where you are can be difficult if you don’t know the area, the boundary, the terrain, or the rivers and roads.”

Douthwright recommends calling the local snowmobile club in whatever area you’re planning to visit, or look for maps on their websites.

“Know the

area, always have a back up plan and let someone know where you’re going,” Douthwright concluded.

Tues., March 1, 2022 1:15-2:15pm St. Michael’s Church Hall 1990 Chapman St. Merritt, BC

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March 8, 2022 marks the 18th celebration honouring women in the Nicola Valley. If you have any amazing women in your life that you would like to recognize, please let us know. Our celebration will look different this year to meet the COVID-19 restrictions, but we still believe that it is important to recognize those women in our community who are working diligently to create and support positive changes and a healthy community.

Please nominate those women who have positively influenced your life, the lives around you, or the community. Nominations may be sent to: nvwomeninaction@gmail.com by noon on February 18, 2022.

Please include the reason for your nomination, a headshot picture and contact information with your submission. Thank you!

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12 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Online renewals coming to ICBC

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Columbians a more convenient way to renew their ICBC It will soon be easier for auto insurance,” said Mike British Columbians to renew Farnworth, Minister of Public their insurance through ICBC. Safety and Solicitor General.

Ministry of Public Safety “Working through the RCMP, officials announced on Feb. 14 police agencies in B.C. will that eligible ICBC customers be enhancing and expanding with policies expiring on May the Automated Licence Plate 1, 2022 or later will have the Recognition program that option to renew simply through exists today.” their computer, tablet, or Also announced, with a start smartphone. date of May 1 as well, is the Customers can renew elimination of license plate their policies up to 44 days in validation decals to show that advance, meaning that begina customer has valid insurance. ning on March 17, the renewal This will coincide with a oneprocess can be done online. time investment of $1-million The new program will allow by the provincial government British Columbians to do to ensure that law enforcement everything online from reneware still able to detect unlawing their auto coverage, chang- ful, unlicensed and uninsured ing their address, applying for drivers. discounts, updating the drivers Ministry officials said that listed on their policy, and modi- this cost will be offset by the fy how they use their vehicle. funds saved related to manu“The online insurance facturing and distributing the renewal initiative offers British decals.

Adopt a Pet

British Columbia will View your feature best friend @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca follow suit with Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec and the Northwest Territories, all of whom have already eliminated their decal To make an appointment programs. to meet your new best friend “We know online insurance Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 renewals are something our (250) 574-1316 email: aarsrescue@gmail.com customers have been waiting for, and we’re pleased to announce that we’re on track to have this option go live next “Breaking the month,” said Nicolas Jimenez, Chain of Abuse” president and CEO, ICBC. Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue “Online insurance renewals Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. add to the growing number of We are a Registered Charity - 847488269RR0001. digital options available to cusThis feature brought to you by... tomers, providing greater convenience, choice and flexibility ◆ Jewelry ◆◆ Gifts Native ◆ Jewelry Gifts NativeArt Art for British Columbians.” ◆ Glasses ◆ Contacts ◆ ◆ Glasses Contacts Not all ICBC tasks will be available online, and will still Jeanine JeanineGustafson Gustafson Optician/Contact Lens Fitter/ABO/NCLE have to be completed traditionOptician/Contact Lens Fitter/ABO/NCLE visionquestoptical@gmail.com ally, such as temporary operavisionquestoptical@gmail.com tion permits, lapsed policies, Vision 250-378-2022 Phone: 250-378-2022 Vision Q Quest Optical & Gifts Phone: Q Quest Optical & Gifts new policies, cancellations, and 2001 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, Authentic Art Gallery 2001 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BCBC Authentic NativeNative Art Gallery multiple ownership.

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Nicely maintained 3 bedrm, 2 bath rancher on corner lot with fenced backyard. Half bsmt that’s finished with rec.room & bedrm. Small shop/garage for toys for workshop. Walking distance to shopping

Cozy 2 bedrm bungalow on large lot with fenced backyard, large covered deck, great for outdoor living in summer. U/G sprinklers, updated sump pump & furnace 6 yrs ago.

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This 2 bedrm rancher has had some upgrades of new flooring, furnace approx. 4 yrs ago and HW tank last year. Has 20x20 garage/workshop plus storage building on large 100x120 lot. Fenced yard with RV parking & fruit trees.

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14 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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Bullying Prevention Awareness PINK SHIRT DAY - Feb 23, 2022 Bullying is a major problem in our schools, workplaces, homes, and online. Over the month of February, and throughout the year, CKNW Kids’ Fund’s Pink Shirt Day aims to raise awareness of these issues, as well as raise funds to support programs that foster children’s healthy self-esteem.

THEIR STORY Now a movement celebrated across the globe, Pink Shirt Day has humble beginnings. Inspired by an act of kindness in small-town Nova Scotia, CKNW Kids’ Fund, working with partners Boys & Girls Clubs and 980 CKNW, was inspired to raise funds to support anti-bullying programs. Here is a snippet of an article detailing the original incident: “David Shepherd, Travis Price and their teenage friends organized a high-school protest to wear pink in

sympathy with a Grade 9 boy who was being bullied [for wearing a pink shirt]…[They] took a stand against bullying when they protested against the harassment of a new Grade 9 student by distributing pink T-shirts to all the boys in their school. ‘I learned that two people can come up with an idea, run with it, and it can do wonders,’ says Mr. Price, 17, who organized the pink protest. ‘Finally, someone stood up for a weaker kid.’ So Mr. Shepherd and some other headed off to a discount store and bought 50 pink tank tops. They sent out message to schoolmates that night, and the next morning they hauled the shirts to school in a plastic bag. As they stood in the foyer handing out the shirts, the bullied boy walked in. His face spoke volumes. ‘It looked like a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders,’ Mr. Price recalled. The

bullies were never heard from again.”

— GLOBE & MAIL After David and Travis’ act of kindness in 2007, CKNW was inspired to help other youth affected by bullying, with many staff members wearing pink shirts and collecting funds to support Boys and Girls Clubs. Since then, the idea has only grown each year, with worldwide support and participation. Countries across the globe are now organizing anti-bullying fundraisers of their own, including Japan, New Zealand, China, Panama, and numerous others. In fact, last year alone, people in almost 180 countries shared their support of Pink Shirt Day through social media posts and donations. https://www.pinkshirtday.ca/about

Every Child Matters Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society Telephone: 250-378-2771 |Toll-Free: 1-877-378-2773

x̣ʷəzstem tékm he scmém̓iʔt - nɬeʔkepmxcín “We Love Every Child” əts ha' stim iʔ scəcmalaʔ - nsyilxcən “Every Child Matters”

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 15

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Lower Nicola Band School

Take a Stand

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WHAT IS BULLYING? Information courtesy of Red Cross Canada

WHAT IS BULLYING?

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

TYPES OF BULLYING

• Physical bullying: using physical force or aggression against another person (e.g., hitting) • Verbal bullying: using words to verbally attack someone (e.g., name-calling) • Social/relational bullying: trying to hurt someone through excluding them, spreading rumours or ignoring them (e.g., gossiping) • Cyberbullying: using electronic media to threaten, embarrass, intimidate, or exclude someone, or to damage their reputation (e.g., sending threatening text messages).

BULLYING VS HARASSMENT

Bullying and harassment are similar, yet different: Harassment is similar to bullying because someone hurts another person through cruel, offensive and insulting behaviours.

Harassment is different from bullying in that it is a form of discrimination.

WHAT IS DISCRIMINATION?

Discrimination is treating someone differently or poorly based on certain characteristics or differences.

Bullying turns into harassment when the behaviour goes against Canada’s Human Rights Laws and focuses on treating people differently because of: • Age • Race (skin colour, facial features) • Ethnicity (culture, where they live, how they live, how they dress) • Religion (religious beliefs) • Sex Sexual orientation (if they are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or heterosexual) • Family status (if they are from a single parent family, adopted family, step family, foster family, non-biological gay or lesbian parent family) • Marital status (if they are single, legally married, common-law spouse, widowed, or divorced) • Physical and mental disability (if they have a mental illness, learning disability, use a wheelchair)

BULLIES tear down.

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16 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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PROUD SUPPORTER OF THE

Don’t Spoken words blurt what can’t might HURT. be CYBERBULLYING is using online and mobileerased. technology to harm other

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Understanding and addressing youth violence

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

TALK: Tellis aa problem trustedthat adult, inform school, use help line and/orofreport it nals to help shed lighta on the consequences delinquent Youth-related violence plagues com- your tothe police. or violent behavior. Other adolescents and teens may find munities across country. value from boot camp-style disciplinary programs that Youth violence encompasses everything from physical redirect energy in positivefrom ways.the person bullying fighting to bullying to sexual or physical assault.

SAVE: Save any instant messages or emails you receive Youth violence can be addressed via various strateThe World Health Organization states that there are you,that or capture comments or images thattohave beenpeople, posted online. gies aiming keep young their schools and their certain risk factors elevate theany likelihood of engaging in or being victimized by youth violence. Individuals who communities safe. are exposed early to alcohol, drugs and tobacco and who may come from homes where crime is prevalent may be more inclined to engage in violent behaviors. Low commitment to school and conduct or behavioral disorders YOU ARE NOT ALONE, FACTS also can increase the chances of being involved in youth ASK 4 HELP violence. Children who can be violent also may come from homes that have inconsistent supervision and disci2/3 of youth have faced Talk about it with someone you plinary practices, or a low level of attachment between bullying over their cell trust and try to find a healthy way parents and children. or online.

Preventing youthphones violence depends on a number of to change what is happening or how factors. Multifaceted strategies that address factors at the you react to it. individual, family and community levels be needed, Three out of tenmay bullied offers the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Call a help line – reaching out to a students reported missing Promoting supportive family environments and early counsellor in an anonymous way can school at least once childhood intervention offering quality education early in help make talking about it easier. life, and strengthening youth the skills year all maybecause assist in keepduring ing violent tendencies from surfacing.

Connections to the of cyberbullying. community and support systems can be beneficial as well.

KidsHelpPhone t. 1-800-668-6868 Interventions to lessen the effects of exposure to violence e. kidshelpphone.ca and treatments to correct problematic behaviors also are advised.

Some children can benefit from juvenile awareness programs, sometimes referred to as “scared straight” programs. These include prison tours and exposure to crimi-

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THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 17

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Merritt has an abundance of agriculture resources in our Merritt has an abundance of agriculture resources in our community. Be sure to explore some of our local community. Be sure to explore some of our local farmers and ranchers featured in this supplement. farmers and ranchers featured in this supplement.

CHEESEBURGERROLL ROLLUPS UPS CHEESEBURGER No problem getting the family to the table when you make these super simple Cheeseburger Roll-ups. This is a perfect weeknight recipe.

No problem getting the family to the table when you make these super simple Cheeseburger Roll-ups. This is a perfect weeknight recipe.

Canada’s Agriculture Day takes place across Canada Feb 2022!

Canada’s Agriculture Day takes place across Canada onon Feb 22.22.

2022!

Let’s raise a fork to the food we love and the people who produce it!

Let’s raise a fork to the food we love and the people who produce it!

divided • 1 tbsp (15 mL) canola oil, divided • 1 tbsp (15 mL) canola oil,mus hrooms diced • 1 cup (250 mL) hrooms • 1 cup (250 mL) diced musonio ns diced mL) • 1 cup (250 ns • 1 cup (250 mL) diced onio pepper and salt each mL) (1 • 1/4 tsp and pepper • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt ed minc & ed cook g) (250 • 1 cup & minced • 1 cup (250 g) cookeded lean or cook extra roast beefcook lean extra ed or roast beef ground beef ground beef les • 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced dill pick les • 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced dill pick • 1/2 cup (125 mL) • 1/2 cup (125 mL) cheese shredded cheddar shredded cheddar cheese ta cheese (125 mL) ricot • 1/2 cup ta cheese • 1/2 cup (125 mL) ricottorti le-wheat llasllas • 4- 8” who • 4- 8” whole-wheat torti • 1/4 cup (60 mL) ketchup • 1/4 cup (60 mL) ketchup tard • 1 tbsp (15 mL) prepared mus tard • 1 tbsp (15 mL) prepared mus

In a large saucepan heat 2 tsp (10 mL) canola oil over medium-high heat. Add In a large saucepan heat 2 tsp (10 mL) canola oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, onions, salt and pepper. Cook and stir until brown and excess liquid mushrooms, onions, salt and pepper. Cook and stir until brown and excess liquid is gone, around 6 minutes. In a medium-sized bowl mix together the cooked is gone, around 6 minutes. In a medium-sized bowl mix together the cooked beef, mushroom mixture, dill pickles, cheddar cheese and ricotta cheese. beef, mushroom mixture, dill pickles, cheddar cheese and ricotta cheese.

Lay out two of the tortillas so that they overlap by half. Spread half of the beef Lay out two of the tortillas so that they overlap by half. Spread half of the beef mixture over the two tortillas and roll them up to make one tortilla log. Slice mixture over the two tortillas and roll them up to make one tortilla log. Slice log into 2-inch-thick rounds or “roll ups”. Repeat rolling and slicing with the log into 2-inch-thick rounds or “roll ups”. Repeat rolling and slicing with the remaining tortillas and beef mixture. remaining tortillas and beef mixture.

In a large skillet heat 1 tsp (5 mL) canola oil over medium heat. Fry roll ups In a large skillet heat 1 tsp (5 mL) canola oil over medium heat. Fry roll ups on each side for 30 seconds, carefully flipping them over. Cook in batches if on each side for 30 seconds, carefully flipping them over. Cook in batches if needed. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup and mustard to dip the rounds in. needed. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup and mustard to dip the rounds in.

EXPLORECANADA CANADABEEF BEEF EXPLORE

Thanking our producers

EXPLORE https://canadabeef.ca for facts and information about EXPLORE https://canadabeef.ca for facts and information about Canadian beef along with different ways to stay connected with Canada Beef.

Canadian beef along with different ways to stay connected with Canada Beef.

The Herald has compiled a list of some of the farmers and ranchers who work tirelessly to support agriculture in the Nicola Valley.

Coquihalla Apiaries: Sarah and Gavin, along with their two children, operate Coquihalla Apiaries. Gavin has 15 years beekeeping experience and the family prides themselves on producing high quality, unpasteurized honey as well as soaps, salves, candles and beeswax wraps.

Grimshire Apiary: Descendants of an early pioneering family in the Nicola Valley, the Grimshires are happily at home in the Sunshine Valley area, raising bees for raw, unpasteurized honey, beeswax, nucs and queens.

Nicola Valley Apiaries: Producers of gourmet honey made by bees roaming free on the unsprayed ranchlands in the historic Nicola Valley surrounding Merritt, B.C. Widely available in several local stores.

3 Bar Farms: 3 Bar Farms raises fresh produce, including more than 50 varieties of garlic, using sustainable farming with no use of chemical herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, or fertilizers. For a decade they have also hosted the Nicola Valley’s beloved Pumpkin Patch.

Miller’s Farm: Kent and Ellen Miller primarily raise meat goats but also have roughly 40 years of experience operating an apiary. Kent offers a basic beekeeping course and Ellen has become well known for her fused glass art and classes.

MacVicar Family Farm: A small family farm dedicated to bringing the people of the Nicola Valley local and ethically raised meat and produce. The MacVicars also offer coffee, spices, and plants and seedlings grown in their two greenhouses. They have recently started a veggie box CSA. Petit Creek Lavender: Primarily focusing on lavender, owner Judy-Sue Suzuki also grows fruit and vegetables for her family alongside sheep, goats, angora rabbits and all manner of birds. Products made from the locally grown lavender include flowers, oils, wreaths, culinary and bath products.

See ‘MULTITUDE’ Page 18

TRADITIONAL ENGLISH-STYLE CIDER PRODUCED IN THE HEART OF BC’S INTERIOR. Left Field Cider Co. produces small batch full juice ciders from beautiful BC apples. Stop by our Ciderhouse for a tasting and see how ʻreal ciderʼ is produced.

Our Ciderhouse is located at the south end of Mamette Lake – On Highway 97C between Merritt and Logan Lake OPENING MAY LONG WEEKEND: Friday/Saturday/Sunday: Noon-6PM GET IN TOUCH: info@leftfieldcider.com www.leftfieldcider.com

18 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

AGRICULTURE WEEK

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Multitude of growers keep Merritt fed From Page 17 Moseyonacres: A small farm with a variety of offerings that include infused and spiced honey, beeswax candles, cut flowers, skin care products, and preserves alongside fruit and veggies, chickens and goats.

Renaissance Farms BC: A small farm focusing on the revival of sustainable, regenerative agriculture. Offering purebred, registered Nigerian Dwarf goats as both dairy and pet stock, as well as goat hoof trimming.

Sunshine Valley Hops: A small scale hop farm specializing in the Tahoma variety, which are then processed, packaged and supplied to several breweries as an integral part of producing beer.

Left Field Cider Co.: Located just off of Hwy 97C north of Merritt, Left Field Cider is a family affair with sisters Theresa and Kate creating handcrafted English-style cider utilizing a hayfield turned orchard and barn turned ciderhouse on their family ranch.

Forest Moon Fungi: Michael Ebenal grows gourmet mushrooms in a small, specialty facility. He utilizes various waste products such as spent hops, wood chips and

coffee grounds to produce healthy, environmentally conscious food.

Shulus Community and Medicine Garden: The Shulus Community Gardens grow fresh, pesticide free produce for the Lower Nicola Indian Band Community, with the Medicine Garden available for planting traditional food, teas, herbs and medicinal plants.

A-P Guest Ranch: Established in 1986, A-P Guest Ranch is surrounded by impressive fishing lakes and thousands of acres of rolling terrain for picturesque trail riding and winter sports. The buildings are the originals of an old homestead ranch from 1911.

Seven Half Diamond Ranch: A guest ranch on Hwy 5A offering quiet and peaceful cabin stays alongside a variety of activities such as fly fishing, bird watching, cross-country skiing, horseback riding or just rest and relaxation.

Canoa Farms: A horse farm that hosts the fall BC Mountain Trail Show as well as training clinics on their very own Mountain Trail Course. Also home to the APHA stallions The Huntsman and LT Color me Jagger.

Tuskast Icelandic Horse Farm: Located just off of Hwy 97C Tuskast Icelandic Horse Farm is a breeding and training facility for purebred Icelandic Horses.

Winsome Meadows: A boutique horse breeding farm that focuses on warmbloods for the hunter and jumper disciplines.

Winsome Meadows also offers collection service and cryopreservation.

8 Mile Ranch: Gerry and Corena Desilets are well known ranchers in the Nicola Valley. In addition to raising cattle, Gerry hauls hay and livestock and Corena owns Calton Cattle Co., creating one of a kind western decor.

Kingsvale Cattle Co.: Located on the banks of the Coldwater River southwest of Merritt, Kingsvale Cattle Co. raises hay and offers custom feeding of cattle including backgrounding of beef calves.

Black Diamond Ranch: Located in Kingsvale in a picturesque setting along the Coldwater River and GIllis Creek. Offering Farm gate sales of eggs and chicken, beef and pork. Whole pig BBQ roasting is also advertised on their website.

Collett Ranch: The historic Collett Ranch, located in Collettville, is now owned

by Avanlee Farms. It is primarily a hay farm but also offers riding lessons for both western riders and hunter/jumpers and eventers, as well as horse boarding as Eden Equine.

Neale Ranch: Approaching a century in operation, Neale Ranch is a cow-calf operation in the Lower Nicola area that still remains in the Neale family and provides natural, grass fed beef from happy cows.

Pooley Ranch: Established in 1885, Pooley Ranch has been owned by the Pooley family for more than a century, as recognized by a Century Farm Award in 2016.

Stump Lake Ranch: Established in 1883, Stump Lake Ranch is tucked in to the rolling hills of the Upper Nicola Valley on the shores of Stump Lake.

Bell Ranch: Curt and Erica Martindale run a cow-calf operation in the Lower Nicola area. Although relatively new, the business is growing and the couple are happy to be raising their children in See ‘HISTORIC’ Page 19 agriculture.

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THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 19

AGRICULTURE WEEK

Historic and new ranches flourish in the grasslands From Page 18

Huber Hay Sales: Established in 1982 on the shores of Nicola Lake, Sherry and Gene will be retiring this year and handing the operation over to daughter Erica and husband Curt of Bell Ranch.

Corner’s Pride Farms: A large scale dairy operation headquartered in Chilliwack, BC, the Merritt division of Corner’s Pride Farms raises dairy heifers for their main farm in Rosedale.

River Ranch: Another of the Nicola Valley’s beef producers, running beef cattle on both River Ranch and the Lazy L. Kane Lake Ranch: A three-generation beef cattle operation taking pride in converting native grasses and forage into high quality food protein. Passionate about land stewardship while helping to support local families and community.

Bar FX Ranch: A family owned cattle and hay ranch nestled along the Nicola River and also covering 100,000 acres of rangeland. A resilient operation that has endured both fires and floods to keep their livestock happy, healthy and fed.

is still in operation today, raising several hundred head of cattle.

60 Ranch, Spences Bridge: 60 Ranch is a multi-generational cattle ranch located in the sagebrush hills and bunchgrass meadows of Spences Bridge, where they produce top quality, grass fed beef as nature intended.

Hilltop Gardens Farm, Spences Bridge: A family farm that offers a variety of produce for sale from a well known roadside market. The Hilltop Gardens farmhouse, which was sadly lost to fire in 2018 after more than a century, was once home to wife of famed anthropologist James Teit, Leonie Josephine Morens.

Nicola Valley Rodeo Association: For over 60 years, The Nicola Valley Rodeo Association has been committed to preserving the ranching and rodeo heritage of the Nicola Valley. The NVRA hosts a wide range of events, including ranch rodeos, youth rodeos, barrel racing, roping and other equestrian events and clinics.

Nicola Valley Fall Fair Association: For decades the associa-

tion has worked hard to organize and promote local agriculture, culminating in a renowned Fall Fair which showcases the best the Nicola Valley can grow, cook, craft and create, all put on display on Labour Day weekend.

Merritt Little Britches Rodeo: Little Britches rodeo is a non-profit organization that offers cowboys and cowgirls ages 2 to 15 the chance to compete in entry level rodeo events such as goat tying, poles, stakes, barrels, dummy roping, steer riding and more.

Grassland Homesteader’s 4H Club: 4H is an integral part of the agricultural community, providing youth aged 6 to 25 hands on experience, empowerment and mentorship for more than 100 years. 4H Canada’s motto is “Learn To Do By Doing”.

The Herald thanks you for your support and apologizes to anyone we may have inadvertently missed.

Agriculture Day

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Blue Sky Ranch: Blue Sky Ranch is an off-grid farm that specializes in responsibly raised, pastured pork.

Co-owner Julia Smith is president of BC’s Small Scale Meat Producers Association.

Nicola Ranch: Established in 1919 and now encompassing roughly 300,000 acres Nicola Ranch proudly raises black angus cattle and registered Quarter Horses.

Douglas Lake Cattle Company: In operation continuously since 1884, Douglas Lake Cattle Company is Canada’s largest working cattle ranch, headquartered Northeast of Merritt with divisions in Alkali Lake and Riske Creek, B.C. Quilchena Ranch: Another historic ranch, located near Nicola Lake along Hwy 5A, Quilchena Ranch was purchased by the Douglas Lake Cattle Company in 2013. Also home to the Quilchena Hotel (1908) and the Quilchena General Store (1912).

Guichon Ranch: The Guichon brothers from Savoie, France founded the Guichon Ranch in 1867. The Ranch

Pure and unpasteurized, Nicola Valley Honey is produced entirely in the valley surrounding Merritt.

Its fine quality, flavour and texture are the result of a combination of climate, soils and flowers, typical to this southern interior dry belt region.

Available locally at:

Baillie House, Creative Company, Local Butcher, Lower Nicola Meats, Pharmasave, Save On Foods.

Nicola Valley Honey is available in a variety of sizes, from 50g to 15kg.

Creamed honey, comb honey and beeswax candles are also produced by Nicola Valley Apiaries

Nicola Valley Apiaries Alan and Meg Paulson, 860 Coldwater Road, Merritt • 250 378-5208

20 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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o t g n i m o c s i g n i r p S Now taking poultry orders

We have all the starter stuff to get

Growing Your Own Food

New at Purity Feed!

Join our

WILD BIRD CLUB!

JOIN NOW TO GET STARTED ON EARNING FREE WILD BIRD SEED! Come in and let our friendly staff help you with all of your garden needs.

COME IN AND SEE US FOR: Livestock Feed and Supplies, Poultry Supplies, Fencing & Gates, Fertilizer, Spreaders, Forage Seed, Commercial Weed Control.

TIME TO CHECK US OUT! www.purityfeed.ca MERRITT: 1690 Voght Street

250-378-4432

KAMLOOPS: 471 Okanagan Way

250-372-2233

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AGRICULTURE WEEK

Backyard chickens 101 Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

There has been an increased interest in self-sufficient lifestyles and small-scale agriculture in recent years, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic impacted global supply chains and sometimes led to empty grocery store shelves.

In addition to a garden, some urban dwellers have also contemplated adding backyard chickens to their personal food production resources.

The City of Merritt permits backyard chickens in Parcels zoned R1, R1A, R2 and R3. However, only hens are permitted, roosters must not be kept within city limits.

In addition, hens must be kept in a Backyard Hen Enclosure, of which only one structure will be permitted per property. The enclosure must be sited to the rear of the Principal Building, be setback a minimum of 1.2 metres from any parcel line, not visible from the street and be constructed in a way to prevent infiltration from predatory animals and rodents, as well as for sound attenuation.

Under Animal Control Bylaw No. 2241, 2018: 49. The keeping of hens must not cause a nuisance, in accordance with the Good Neighbour Bylaw.

(2299) 50. A property owner or occupant may only keep Hens in accordance with the following provisions: (a) The parcel must be appropriately Zoned to allow the keeping of Hens according to the City’s Zoning Bylaw.

(2287) (b) a minimum of two and a maximum of six (6) Hens may be kept on any such property;

(2299) (c) a person must not keep Hens in, upon, or under any structure used for human habitation.

(2287) 51. Every person keeping Hens, and the owner of a parcel on which Hens are kept, must ensure that: (a) poultry, manure, and waste products are composted or disposed of to prevent odours; (b) any diseased Hen is killed and the carcass destroyed; (c) no slaughtering of Hens occurs on the property; (d) eggs are used only for consumption and not for resale; (e) all Hens must be provided with food, water, light, ventilation, veterinary care, and opportunities for essential behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and roosting; and (f) any structure housing Hens and accompanying run must be fenced in such a manner to prevent the entry of vermin or predators and to confine the Hens and kept free of vermin.

Hen Enclosures 52. All Hen enclosures must have: v(a) a run consisting of any combination of vegetated or bare earth, (b) a minimum enclosed floor area of 0.4 square metres (4 square feet) per Hen; (c) a wooden floor at least 0.3 metres

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 21

above grade, or a concrete floor; (d) at least one (1) nest box; and (e) for each Hen, a minimum of 20cm of perching space.

Provided you can meet all of these requirements, which chickens are right for you? There are literally hundreds of chicken breeds. Below we have compiled a list of hens ideal for basic backyard chicken keeping based on desirable attributes.

Top egg layer: If you are looking for a hen that will provide you with a consisten supply of eggs, ISA Browns top the list, laying as many as 350 eggs per year.

Cold hardy: Rhode Island Reds were developed (not surprisingly) in Rhode Island, part of the USA’s New England region where temperatures can drop as low as -30°C. This means they can handle cold and snowy Canadian winters while still producing a respectable 250300 eggs per year.

Heat resistant: As we all know from last summer’s heat dome, Merritt temperatures can soar as well as drop.

Orpingtons are an all around chicken that can tolerate both cold and heat while providing your family with between 150-200 eggs per year.

Colourful egg layer: If you’re looking for more than plain white or brown eggs, there are a variety of chickens that lay blue, green, and even pink eggs. These include Ameraucanas, Easter Eggers, Olive Eggers, and Salmon Faverolles.

The City of Merritt is proud to celebrate Agriculture Day

The Nicola Valley’s agriculture sector provides crucial food security, reduces food miles, and sustains local jobs.

Mayor, Council, and staff at the City of Merritt are proud to stand with our agricultural producers and retailers.

For more information on agriculture & food security in Merritt, go to www.merritt.ca/foodsecurity

22 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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Got Weeds?

We Are Here to Help!

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District offers a suite of programs for landowners that are designed to help residents protect their land values from the impacts of invasive plants and noxious weeds: →Rebates for Invasive Plant Control →Free Equipment Loan Outs →Free Private Land Consults →Free Biological Control Agents Learn more about our invasive plant programs at: tnrd.ca/invasive-plant-management

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250-377-8673 MH Agriculture day ad.indd 1

2022-02-11 1:35:54 PM

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 23

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Rhonda MacDonald (left) of Bar FX Ranch warms a calf in her bathtub while Sara Walkem and her son Elliot (right) of 60 Ranch Grass Fed Beef in Spences Bridge care for an abandoned calf that she has brought into her basement. BC’s farmers and ranchers often employ unconventional methods to safeguard their livestock.

We sell registered Nigerian Dwarf goats.

Nigerian Dwarf milk has the highest butterfat content (6% - 10%) of any other goat breed, making it richer and creamier than cow’s milk, which is only 1% - 5%.

Nigerians do not mature beyond 21” in height. Their small stature, beautiful colour variety and quirky personalities make them an excellent choice for both pets and milk production on hobby farms.

Clean herd, tested negative for Johne’s and CAE, CL abscess free.

Renaissance Farms BC Located in Sunshine Valley Email: renaissancefarmsbc@gmail.com

Phone: 250-378-7634

24 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

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Flood recovery supports

for farmers

The BC and federal governments are helping farmers impacted by November’s devastating floods.

Based on feedback from farmers, the new Canada-BC Flood Recovery Program for Food Security provides $228 million in funding to help farmers with uninsurable extraordinary damages. Producers will receive personalized financial support, based on the damages they experienced, with on-farm extraordinary expenses including: Clean up, repair and restoration of land, buildings, water and waste systems Repair of essential farm infrastructure and rental of temporary production facilities Animal welfare including replacement feed, transportation, veterinary care and mortality disposal Loss of perennial plants not raised for resale

Let’s get BC growing again.

Have a question about your application?

Application packages are available at

gov.bc.ca/AgriFloodRecovery

One-on-one help is available for farmers in English and Punjabi.

Contact agrirecovery@gov.bc.ca or 1-888-332-3352 for support.

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SPORTS

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 25

Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com.

Logan Lake joins BC Intercollegiate Hockey League The Miners will draw from both TRU students in Kamloops and NVIT students in Merritt.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Logan Lake will soon have its own representative in the BC Intercollegiate Hockey league, when the Logan Lake Miners kick off their inaugural season in 2022-23.

With a close proximity to both Merritt and Kamloops, the independent organization will draw student athletes from both Thompson Rivers University and Nicola Valley Institute of Technology.

BCIHL President Chris Munshaw said the league is “thrilled” to add their third new organization in the past five years.

“Mike and his organizing group have done a fantastic job working with us over the past year and putting together a strong application. Their core values centred around community, respect and character align with ours and we believe they have a head start on a successful program.

“The Miners are honing in on a deep talent pool of graduating junior hockey

players in the Okanagan, as well as across BC and Alberta, many of whom are looking for opportunities to compete and study closer to home rather than the traditional American university hockey routes many Canadians take.”

With a schedule set to begin in October of this year, the Miners, led

by Head Coach Mike Carlsen, will call the Logan Lake Recreation Centre their home.

They join Simon Fraser University, Vancouver Island University, University of Victoria, and the Okanagan Lakers as the fifth franchise in the league, which draws solely from a pool of students enrolled in full-time post-secondary courses.

“We believe the close-knit community, the facility and the team behind the team are a great foundation, and that Logan Lake will make a nice home with a lot of unique opportunities in the future,” said Munshaw.

Despite COVID-19 restrictions, the BCIHL is looking to continue to expand its sights to other university regions

across British Columbia.

“We’re seeing significant growth in interest from high performance studentathletes who are genuinely committed to education and leading successful careers,” said Munshaw.

“I think that’s reflected in the growth of the (Canadian Sport School Hockey League) now at 94 teams, both accredited and private, ranging from U15-U18.

We’ll evaluate every opportunity to tap into this interest and accept new teams, but we are focused on the ones that align

with our values and enhance the future of the BCIHL. “We’ll continue to work closely with USports programs to enhance our exhibition tournament schedule and promote university/college hockey across B.C.” A pair of neutral site games were played last weekend at the Logan Lake Recreation Centre between the Lakers and Vancouver Island University, giving Logan Lake residents a taste of the competitiveness to come in the fall.

NCAA honours for ex-Cent Former Merritt Centennial Vincent Duplessis was named the NCAA’s Hockey East Goaltender of the Week earlier this month for his outstanding play with Boston University.

The netminder stopped all 27 shots that he faced in his first career collegiate

start, a 4-0 victory over Maine.

The 22-year old from Quebec spent parts of two seasons with the Centennials, including a 20-game stint in the 2018-19 BCHL season when he recorded a record of 9-8-1.

Merritt Centennials vs

MARCH 2 - PENTICTON VEES: 7:00 P.M. MARCH 4 - VERNON VIPERS: 7:00 P.M. AT THE NICOLA VALLEY MEMORIAL ARENA!

FOR TICKETS DROP BY 2001C VOGHT ST, OR CALL THE OFFICE AT 250-378-3604

26 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM At noon on Feb. 14, roughly 35 people gathered to take part in a march for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Cheryl Rule, an organizer, said that the march was a result of a local MMIWG committee that has been active and holding meetings since June of last year.

The Committee is comprised of

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MMIWG WALK

members from School District 58: Cheryl Rule, Burt Bergmann, Chelley LacerteOppenheim, Amanda Adams, Erin Switzer, Jane Kempston, and Paula Moyes, Scw’exmx Health: Lucille Henry and May George, Monty Joseph of Scw’exmx Child and Family Services, RCMP members Cst. Tracy Dunsmore and Cst.

Rose Grant, as well as Sue Sterling-Bur from NVIT and Melissa Moses, women’s rep for the Union of BC Indian Chiefs.

“The purpose of our committee is to raise awareness for the missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited, but we’re also recognizing boys and men, because it’s not just women and girls that go missing or are murdered,” said Rule.

Rule and other committee members hope that by raising awareness of the situation they can stop violence within their community and also support those most impacted, such as what happened in Oct. 2021 when the committee visited a site where a community member was murdered.

“We brought in hand drummers and some dancers,” said Rule.

“We had a meal

together and we shared the experience, it was for the family that had this tragedy.”

The Feb. 14 event coincided with the 31st annual Women’s Memorial March in Vancouver. The MMIWG committee hopes to continue to make these marches a regular occurrence.

“We want to continue to keep this moving forward,” said Rule.

The group

marched from Central Park to City Furniture and back, undeterred by the snowy weather, with Amanda Adams commenting, “Snow is a blessing, it cleanses us. Mother Earth is helping us, by blessing us with snow.”

SD58 donated giveaway items with Rule handing out MMIWG pins, Every Child Matters decals and sage as gifts.

“We’re planning

on bringing more awareness and safety plans to the School District,” Rule added.

“In order to do this work we’re providing different sessions, and our

next session we’re planning is with the School District, and we’re bringing teachers and community together to talk about what it means for the missing and murdered.”

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

Sunday service (indoors), 10 am. Phone (250)378-2464 for more info and for prayer support.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 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

Matthias Wiegend

2055 Quilchena Ave

info@ukspicecuisine.com

250-293-0416

1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Monday - Friday: 11:00 am to 9:oo pm Saturday & Sunday: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 27

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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 Announcements

In Memoriams

In Memoriams

ALANON Meetings Are Held Every Monday 7 - 8 pm.

United Church Hall 1899 Quilchena Ave Call for more info (250)525-0262

In Loving Memory of

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Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure, You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

YOU ARE A GIFT TO THE WORLD. Your higher consciousness has the power to transform self and situations. Discover how today! www.higherconsciousness.ca

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Peter Arduini March 29, 1948 - Feb. 16, 2015

You left us beautiful memories, Your love is still our guide Although we can not see you, You are always at our side.

Dearly missed , never forgotten Love Dee, Erinn, Rory & Nickolas

Merritt Funeral Chapel A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Celebrating each life like no other REGULAR OFFICE HOURS On Call 24 Hours A Day

Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m

www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries

Dec 23, 1960 - Feb 11, 2022 Thom loved life. He loved everything about it!

Absolutely loved getting up in the morning and driving his bus with his most wonderful passengers.

Enjoyed 34 years with SD# 58. Best job ever!

Days off Thom could be found watching his kids, then grandkids, at ball fields, hockey rinks, and band concerts. Pure joy! Thomas loved our great outdoors, often canoeing, hiking, skiing, snow shoeing, and walking the dogs. Every August the huckleberry fields were the place to camp.

As a Dad, Thom had plenty of time, energy and love for his children, Colene, Christene, Brodie and son-in-law Aron. (and many of their cool friends!) Rock concerts, California road trip, sleepovers, clown school, river tubing and winter camping. Fun times!

Thom was honoured to be the Papa to Tristan, Khole, Emma, Talyn, Jorden, Marx, Drake and Zac. Many fantastic memories camping, kayaking, the tree fort, skiing, road trips, Magical Christmas’s with gingerbread houses, Easter egg hunts and the best, scariest Halloweens. Grandkids do rule! Thom was an amazing Papa!

Thom loved his girlfriend Barb. He had big places in his heart for his brothers, sisters, in-laws, out-laws, aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews and his friends. Loved his School District family.

Thom looked forward to his huge blasts of fun with his Douglas cousins and their crazy adventures in the wild! Great holidays!

Thom believed he lived in the friendliest “dog bone” and his neighbours the kindest and best. He thought he was the luckiest guy in the world and was very happy being Thom.

Yup Thom loved life!

Please remember Thom by doing random acts of kindness (often). And please keep flashing that peace sign!!

ROCK ON THOM!

You matter to the last moment of your life, and we will do all we can, not only to help you die peacefully, but to live until you die.

Wanted

Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice movement

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Reliable Towing Merritt Ltd.

2900 Pooley Ave the following vehicle will be auctioned on February 24, 2022 for non payment

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Obituaries

Thomas William Douglas

MAURICE MATHIEU

1-866-669-9222

2 Seniors paying Cash for Old bottles, license plates, coins, tokens, tins, guns, mining & railroad items, signs, postcards, siphons, early Chinese items, estates.

Larry 250-545-7140 sumas@shaw.ca

In Memoriams

2009 Buick Enclave VIN# 5GAEV23D69J182359 Debtor: Farhad Caceres Amount owing: $1,912.00 2005 Honda Civic VIN# 1HGEM229X5L806162 Debtor: Adam Betts Amount Owing: $7,901.53

P: 250-280-1701

Please recycle this newspaper.

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

Love’s greatest gift is remembrance.

Employment

Employment

Employment

SALES & SERVICE

Kal Tire is the largest independently owned tire dealer in Canada.

We offer a clean and safe work environment in a motivating and fun atmosphere with a competitive salary and benefits program.

IF YOU POSSESS...

• A desire to excel in customer service • The ability to successfully work in a physically demanding team atmosphere • Willingness to learn THEN KAL TIRE WANTS YOU TO BECOME PART OF OUR TEAM. Interested applicants should submit their resumes to Kal Tire, 2601 Nicola Avenue, Merritt, B.C. or email Brian_Wasman@kaltire.com

28 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 Employment

Employment

www.merrittherald.com Employment

Employment

Lower Nicola Indian Band - HELP WANTED Communication Assistant

Employment

Employment

Employment

Employment

Lower Nicola Indian Band - HELP WANTED Special Education and Tutoring Assistant

Department: Administration Work hours: up to 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday Start date: April 2022 Wages: based on skills and education

Department: Education Hours: Up to 35 hours per week.

Start Date: April 2022 Reports to: Education Manager

Summary of Responsibilities: The Communications Assistant will support the role and activities of the Communications Coordinator in the areas of internal and external communication, media relations, education and promotional plans, and publication management with outcomes that support the Lower Nicola Indian Band overall goals and maintain a positive public image of the Lower Nicola Indian Band.

Summary of Responsibilities: Our Special Education and Tutoring Assistant provides a diverse range of support for our K-12 students in the Nicola Valley. The primary roles include but are not limited to: building relationships and getting to know each student; motivating and inspiring students; and, helping students achieve their best. The Special Education and Tutoring Assistant will deliver a personalized learning approach to help Lower Nicola Indian Band Students with all subject areas in the K-12 system, including a specialized focus on courses at the senior level in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Math.

Major Responsibilities/Duties 1. As directed, post items to Facebook and website. Ensure that content on the LNIB website is current.

2. Assist staff members in how to access and post information to website and Intranet.

3. Design and draft brochures and publications newsletters and other communications materials.

4. Attend and report on (including photographs) community events.

5. Respond to queries from the community with respect to Facebook and the website.

6. Assist to implement various communications initiatives on behalf of the Lower Nicola Indian Band member communities (when required).

7. Gather, research and edit communications material for internal and external audiences as directed.

8. Assist in the preparation of brochures, reports.

9. Organize venues, catering, invitation mail-outs and attendance for communications meetings, events and open houses as directed.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities • Must have the ability to express and comprehend oral and written English.

• Must have a valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation • Ability to work as a team member and be comfortable facilitating group collaborations • Willing to learn and take necessary on-going training associated to K-12 Education needs • Must be self-motivated, reliable, and maintain condentiality of information • Must be willing to work diverse hours that may include late afternoon and/or evening hours • High skill level and understanding of all K-12 academic subject matter • Desire to implement and reinforce appropriate learning strategies at Elementary/Secondary levels Minimum Qualications: • Grade 12 Dogwood Diploma with senior level courses achieved in Sciences and Math • Successful Completion of an approved Education Assistant Program • Successful experience assisting in preparing learning materials for students • Ability to provide behavior management and crisis intervention considered an asset • Successful experience working with Autistic Learners considered an asset

Education and Experience • Demonstrated work experience in an ofce environmen.

• Excellent oral and written skills.

• Computer skills in Microsoft Ofce Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, web design and WordPress.

• Relevant Experience.

• Must be able to work effectively under pressure when facing short deadlines.

• Must be organized and able to manage workload effectively.

• Exceptional research, writing, analytical and organizational skills, and the ability to convey complex concepts in a clear, concise and logical manner.

• Proven ability in complex graphic design, and photographic skills.

• Candidates able to speak or willingness to learn the Nle?kepmxcin language will be given preference.

Apply To: Lower Nicola Indian Band E-mail: hr@lnib.net https://secure.collage.co/jobs/lnib Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter complete with references, specifying the position you are applying for. Only qualied candidates will be considered.

Deadline to Apply: Open until lled

Thanks to all who apply.

Deadline to Apply: Open until lled

Apply to: Lower Nicola Indian Band HR@LNIB.net or For a FULL Job Description and to apply see https://secure.collage.co/jobs/lnib/28454 Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter complete with references, specifying the position you are applying for. Only qualied candidates will be considered.

Catch your next job in our employment section.

Thanks to all who apply.

Bring Home the Bacon!

Find your new job right here in your

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

FIRST NATIONS SUPPORT WORKER School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) is accepting applications for the position of First Nations Support Worker in Merritt for 7 hours per day, 10 months per year starting March 1, 2022 to April 30, 2022 or the return of the incumbent.

The successful applicant will be responsible for providing social/emotional support, communicating with students and parents/guardians, tutoring, and cultural education.

Electronic application submissions will be accepted until February 25, 2022.

merrittherald.com

Classifieds.

If interested, please send your resume along with three references to humanresources@sd58.bc.ca or on-line at www.sd58.bc.ca, click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 3191395).

250-378-4241

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

or Call to advertise a job

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 29

www.merrittherald.com Employment

Employment

Employment

Joint Venture A FIRST NATIONS FORESTRY COMPANY

Nlaka’pamux Health Services Society Employment Opportunity Home Care Nurse/ Manager- RN

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Forestry Operations Supervisor

STATUS: Permanent Full Time HOURS OF WORK: Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (35 Hours per week/1hr lunch)

Stuwix Resources Joint Venture is a well-established fiber management and marketing company that is owned by 8 First Nations Communities with its office located in Merritt, British Columbia. Stuwix ensures our local First Nations stewardship values are incorporated in forest management at all levels of our operations.

Commencing immediately, we are looking to add an Operations Supervisor who will work within our operations department and work directly with our Operations Manager to implement Stuwix’s harvesting and roads program

Nlaka’pamux Health Services Society (NHSS) is seeking a fulltime Registered Nurse to fill a Home Care Nurse/ Manager position providing nursing services within the Nlaka’pamux Nation.

Home Care Nurse/ Manager will provide: 1. Initial and annual client care assessments of home care clients 2. Develop client care plans, assign client care directions to LPNs and Home Care Aids 3. Creates social connection to the community and receives referrals into the program 4. Provides client advocacy with medical services with the Health Authority’s 5. Consults with community and liaisons with NHSS management regarding policy and processes 6. Oversees requirements of NHSS Nation Shared Nursing policies for service delivery, nurse licensing requirements, maintains standards equivalent to British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP) practice standard and policies 7. Advocates between NHSS Nation Shared Nursing Services and the communities 8. Management & directs resources within the NHSS Nation Shared Nursing Services 9. Provides health promotion and prevention programs for Elders, assists with immunization clinics, health fairs, diabetes, heart health and nutrition support.

10. Provides mentoring and training in support of LPNs and HCAs education, development, and assurance of culturally appropriate and trauma-informed service.

11. Assures cultural safety and relevant best practices are maintained to support client care.

Qualifications and Qualities: • Bachelor’s Degree in nursing from a Canadian university or equivalent combination of training and experience. o Must be registered (or eligible) with British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals • Training/Experience in community health nursing is an asset • Experience/knowledge of computer operations and systems • Immunization certification or willingness to obtain • Standard First Aid with a valid CPR ticket (or ability to obtain) • Valid BC driver’s license • Excellent written and oral communication skills • Knowledge of First Nations history, customs and traditions is an asset

Descriptions & Duties Duties of this position include but may not be limited to: • Safety and environmental (SFI) planning and development • Logging and road construction supervision • Liaison with government agencies, stakeholders, First Nations, and local licensees • Finalize log calculation analysis with Operations Manager • Conduct inspections to implement Stuwix’s, Safety, EMS, and log quality programs • Implement applicable plans and work with the Planning Forester and Accounting to accurately report costs and plan changes to support business requirements.

• Contract negotiations and implementation • Assist with Developing harvest plans Preferred Characteristics and Prerequisites • • • • • • • •

Team-orientated self-starter looking for diversity and career growth Quick and adaptive learner Minimum 5 years working in forestry operations.

Strong verbal and written communication skills Strong computer skills - preference in Microsoft Office, Arc GIS, and Tablet App’s Knowledge and understanding of First Nations Values RPF or RFT designation preferred or in process Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License with clean drivers abstract Salary

• • • •

Salary is commensurate on individuals’ ability, skills, and experience. ($70,000-$90,000) Stuwix Resources Joint Venture offers a comprehensive benefits package Stuwix believes in a healthy work life balance Closing date for applications is March 4, 2022 Please forward resume and cover letter to Lindsay Tighe, General Manager Email: generalmanager@stuwix.com Mailing Address: 2-98 Highway 8, Merritt, BC. VIK 0A7 Fax: 250-278-2541

This posting will remain open until the position is filled.

Only applicants shortlisted will be contacted for interviews. Please note that successful applicants will require a Criminal Record Check, the details of which may preclude an offer of employment being finalized. Preference will be given to persons of Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

NOON HOUR SUPERVISORS School District No. 58 is accepting applications for Noon Hour Supervisors at Collettville Elementary This position is Monday to Friday, five (5) days per week and one (1) hour per school day. Previous experience working with students would be an asset.

If interested, please send your resume along with three references to Dena McDermott at dmcdermott@365.sd58.bc.ca or online at www.sd58.bc.ca, click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 3179253).

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Employment

Similkameen Tirecraft is located at 2064 Main Street, Cawston B.C. We are looking for a

FULL-TIME RED SEAL MECHANIC. Must have experience with diesel engines.

Wage varies as per experience.

Full time hours, Mon-Fri, 7am - 4pm.

Possible employee/family housing available if need. Extended medical, tool allowance and boot allowance offered after 6-month probation period.

Please send resume and references to: simpayables@gmail.com

Traffic Control company looking to hire

CERTIFIED TRAFFIC CONTROL PEOPLE. Must have valid BC Drivers License.

Full-time, part-time, lots of overtime if interested.

Rate of pay based on experience.

Positions starting ASAP . Call 250-718-1357, 250-469-3469 or email: coralie@allsafetraffic.com

PAPER

ROUTES

AVAILABLE GET YOUR STEPS IN AND GET PAID

250-374-7467 250.378.4241 circulation@kamloopsthisweek.com

circulation@merrittherald.com

Relocation allowance may be offered for this position This position may qualify for a signing bonus Applicants to submit a cover letter with salary expectation, resume, copies of credentials and three professional references to: Tamara George, CAPA, Executive Director Address: 2088 Quilchena Ave, PO 1624 Merritt BC, V1K 1B8 Email: george.t@nlxfn.com Phone: 250 378 9772 ext.119 Fax: 250 315 0283

Employment

Intermediate Teacher Position N’Kwala is a First Nation operated independent school offering a kindergarten to grade 12 program. Currently we have an enrolment of 40 making class sizes smaller allowing for more one-on-one time for teacher and students. N’Kwala is surrounded by rolling hills and the natural environment and is located in the beautiful Nicola Valley approximately 90 km south of Kamloops and approximately 50 km east of Merritt. On-site accommodations and daycare are available for the successful candidate.

Required Qualifications: • Qualified and experienced to teach intermediate level students • Special Education training an asset • Ability to adapt or modify programs to meet the student’s special needs • Knowledge of the BC curriculum • Valid BC teaching certificate Recommended Qualifications: • Experience working in First Nations community • Experience with the Read Well and Saxon Math programs • Experience with special education programs • Experience with multi-grade classroom • Salary as per the SD 73 Salary Grid

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Start date: ASAP ProD opportunities may be required.

For further information about this role, please contact Principal at 250-350-3370 or email:principal@uppernicola.com

Bring Home the Bacon!

Please send cover letter and resume to Human Resources, General Delivery, Douglas Lake, BC V0E 1S0, or hr@uppernicola.com. N’kwala School thanks all those interested but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Find your new job right here in your Classifieds.

merrittherald.com

or Call to advertise a job

250-378-4241

30 • THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 Employment

Employment

www.merrittherald.com

SUDOKU

Employment

Scw’exmx Tribal Council (STC)

#202-2090 COUTLEE AVENUE P.O. BOX 188, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 Phone (250) 378-4235 Fax (250) 378-9119 e-mail: administration@scwexmxtribal.org

Seasonal Field Techician

Catch your next job in our employment section.

Requirements: Valid Driver’s License Required Skills: • Data collection (detail orientated), intermediate knowledge of compassing, mapping and using a Ipad, technical writing skills, legible and detailed notes Qualications: • Good physical condition • Occupational rst aid level 1 • Intermediate knowledge of plants • Intermediate knowledge of the surrounding area • Be willing to take training as required

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, 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.

Education and/or Work Experience: • Natural Resource Technician/Environmental Resource Technician certicate or diploma, • RISC Archaeological Field Crew and Culturally Modied Tree Certicate and/or • Archaeological eld experience or archaeology courses.

• Knowledge of the Nlaka’pamux language and culture is an asset.

The Job will entail: Field work in all weather conditions, hiking on all types of terrain, conducting preliminary eld reconnaissance, shovel test pits, long hours, and note taking.

Work Apparel: Hi Vis Vest and/or Cruising Vest, Steel Toed Work Boots, Hard Hat, leather gloves and safety glasses Please note that this is a seasonal position and during of work is dependent on available work and weather conditions.

Wage is based on Work Experience and Credentials.

Email Resume and Cover Letter to Morgan Jumbo mjumbo@scwexmxtribal.org

High School Teacher Position N’Kwala is a First Nation operated independent school offering a kindergarten to grade 12 programs. Currently we have an enrolment of 40 making class sizes smaller allowing for more one-on-one time for teacher and students. N’Kwala is surrounded by rolling hills and the natural environment and is located in the beautiful Nicola Valley approximately 90 km south of Kamloops and approximately 50 km east of Merritt. On-site accommodations and daycare are available for the successful candidate.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

To advertise in To advertise in Employment Employment call 604-630-3300 Call 250-378-4241

You Want It We’ve Got It Find Whatever You’re Looking for in the Classifieds.

Required Qualifications: • Qualified and experienced to teach High School level students • Special Education training an asset • Ability to adapt or modify programs to meet the student’s special needs • Knowledge of the BC curriculum • Valid BC teaching certificate Recommended Qualifications: • Experience working in First Nations community • Experience with the Read Well and Saxon Math programs • Experience with special education programs • Experience with On-line learning portals • Experience with multi-grade classroom • Salary as per the SD 73 Salary Grid

Please send cover letter and resume to Human Resources, General Delivery, Douglas Lake, BC V0E 1S0 or hr@uppernicola.com. N’kwala School thanks all those interested but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

1. Remain as is 5. Functional 11. News magazine 12. Popular treat 16. Area units 17. Artificial intelligence 18. Marten valued for its fur 19. Forms of matter 24. Home of the Dodgers 25. Bordering 26. Part of the eye 27. It might be nervous 28. Visualizes 29. Crest of a hill

DOWN

Start date: ASAP ProD opportunities may be required.

For further information about this role, please contact Principal at 250-350-3370 or email:principal@uppernicola.com

ACROSS

Check Out Our Website: vancourier.com merrittherald.com http://classified.van.net

1. Small bone in middle ear 2. Long, angry speech 3. Move out of 4. Male organ 5. Two-toed sloth 6. Making dirty 7. Article 8. Oil company 9. Emits coherent radiation 10. Amounts of time 13. Unit equal to one quintillion bytes (abbr.)

14. Forbidden by law 15. Drains away 20. Not out 21. Sea patrol (abbr.)

30. Measures engine speed (abbr.)

31. Tears in a garment (Br. Eng.) 33. Not easily explained 34 Song in short stanzas 38. Detonations 39. Intestinal 40. EU cofounder Paul-Henri __ 43. Balmy 44. New Mexico mountain town 45. Gobblers

49. Insecticide 50. Golf scores 51. Has its own altar 53. “Pollock” actor Harris 54. Being livable 56. NHL play-by-play man 58. “The Great Lakes State” (abbr.)

59. Unpainted 60. Swam underwater 63. Native American people 64. Containing salt 65. Exam

22. Bird genus 23. Gratuity 27. __ and feathers 29. Spiritual part of an individual (ancient Egypt) 30. Hot beverage 31. Pouch 32. It followed the cassette 33. Large northern deer 34. Ones who offer formally 35. Famed genie 36. Bequeathed 37. Skeletal muscle 38. Atomic #56 40. Silk garment 41. They deliver the mail

42. Equally 44. Check 45. Light-colored breed of hound 46. Drug that soothes 47. Railroads 48. Most slick 50. Jacket 51. A radio band 52. Hello 54. His and __ 55. Supporter 57. Popular software suite (abbr.)

61. Railway 62. NY coastal region (abbr.)

THURSDAY, February 17, 2022 • 31

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