Merritt Herald October 3, 2024 by Merritt Herald

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz sat down with the Herald to talk about the 2024 UBCM.

Mayor fuming over closure

December — including 15 dates in December alone.

The mayor of Merritt is fuming as his community’s emergency department sits closed for a second consecutive day Monday due to a shortage of doctors — and he’s threatening to publish a leaked document that he says shows many more closures could be coming in the months ahead.

“It feels like total abandonment,” Mayor Mike Goetz told Castanet on Monday. “But a closure here on a long weekend is never a surprise. It’s pretty much a given here.”

Goetz is reacting to a lengthy temporary shutdown that has the emergency department at Merritt’s Nicola Valley Hospital closed from Sunday morning until Tuesday morning — 48 hours straight, during which time anyone in need of emergency care in the community is being told to travel to Kamloops or Kelowna.

He said he received a leaked internal document last week from a health care worker that indicates the Merritt emergency department could be closing repeatedly in the months ahead.

According to Goetz, the document identifies more than 20 potential closures of the Merritt emergency room between October and

“I can’t get IH to confirm that — they won’t return my calls,” he said. “At this point, we’re kind of in a radio silence situation.”

Goetz said he’s going to try again on Tuesday, but otherwise plans to make the document public.

“I think I’m going to have to publish the dates that we’re going to be down,” he said. “Then at least my community knows what dates it is.”

Interior Health provided a statement to Castanet saying temporary closures are a last resort and work is undertaken “right up until the shift starts” to line up a replacement.

“When we receive schedules that include unfilled shifts, we immediately look to find coverage,” the statement said.

“To provide information weeks or months in advance would not be accurate, given we are successful in covering many shifts once we have a schedule for each site.

“We will continue to do everything we can to prevent service interruptions, but there are times when they can’t be avoided.”

Earlier this year, Goetz sent a $103,000 bill to Victoria, seeking compensation for the City of Merritt for the days

Nicola Valley community members walked the streets of Lower Nicola last Friday to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Photo/Kenneth Wong

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

“It’s

time for this government to step out of health care”

From Page 1

the hospital was closed, and for expenses spent on city firefighters attending medical calls during the closures.

He said he’s almost given up on the provincial government ever fixing the crisis impacting Merritt’s hospital.

“We’ve got to have answers,” he said.

“Maybe it’s time for this government to step out of health care. Maybe we go a private health care route or some sort of federal intervention, because this provincial government has absolutely no ability to keep our hospital open.”

Mayor addresses key concerns at 2024 UBCM

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz reflects on the Union of B.C. Municipalities 2024 Convention.

Mayor Goetz sat down with the Herald to reflect on the convention, which ran from Sept. 16 to 20 at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

Every municipality in B.C. gathers in Vancouver, Victoria, or Whistler annually to share experiences, develop policy, and advocate for community needs to senior levels of government.

Goetz’s main takeaway from the convention is how invested the council is in Merritt. “New councils like this one don’t usually get up and address UBCM like they did, and ask ministers for answers,” said Goetz. “So I’m very proud of them and I’m very happy that they did, because that shows that this is a community that isn’t going to lay down, we want answers and we want them now.”

Goetz was particularly proud of Chief Administrative Officer Cynthia White, who delivered a presentation at the midsize community forum on climate readiness. “She was very succinct, read everything out, but she had good humor to go with it. It was a fantastic presentation,” explained Goetz. “It really got us on the map with everybody in the province, they now know where Merritt is.”

Mayor and council also focused on the ongoing challenges surrounding Merritt’s dikes.

Goetz expressed frustration over bureaucratic barriers that have delayed necessary repairs, citing a recent $30,000 study the Province required the City to complete for a dike project that could not be used. “It’s this kind of stupidity that drives you insane,” he said, adding that

‘It’s this kind of stupidity that drives you insane.’

— Mike Goetz, Merritt Mayor

the delays have already added nearly $800,000 to the project’s cost.

“We met with Minister Cullen saying, if you’re not aware of this, you should be, and you need to act on it, because we’re trying to make our community safe and between the federal and provincial government, every time we move on these dikes, we’re slapped back,” added Goetz. “That shouldn’t be happening… we’re going to be starting our fourth year after the 16th of November; we’re just working on one small dike, and the problems that we’ve run into on that are unacceptable.”

’s

Goetz, along with mayors from Princeton and Abbotsford, met with the Dairy Association to discuss federal grant refusals for dike support. “They wanted to meet with us about the grant refusal from the federal government to support our dikes,” recounts Goetz. “They’re a very powerful group, they feel that a lot of (their) fields are being affected so they want to get behind us.”

At UBCM 2023 and 2024, Merritt submitted a resolution for a dashboard to report the impact of drug decriminalization. Despite initial promises, no progress has been made.

“We asked for this over a year ago, (Mental Health and Addictions Minister Jennifer Whiteside) promised it would come, and then four days after the UBCM in 2023 she said, ‘sorry, we’re not doing it,’” explained Goetz. “The whole idea about the dashboard is to see what the data is, so we can start having the province making some correct decisions.”

The City continues to push for data transparency to inform decisions, but future action depends on post-election government changes. “24 days from now, she may not even be elected for all we know,” said Goetz. So that will have to go to the next minister that comes in... So everything that we have brought forward will have legs for the next 90 days, even after the election, no matter who wins, they still have to deal with it.”

Public Hearing

TheCit yofMerrittwillbeholdingaPublic Hearingfor Oﬃcial Communit yPlanAmendment BylawNo. 2375,2024,and Zoning Amendment BylawNo. 2376 ,2024 forthe propert yat1129MiddayValleyRoad.

PROPOSED CHANGES: BylawNo. 2375,2024 proposes to amendthe OCPL andUse Designation forthe subjec tpropert yfrom ‘FutureDevelopment ’to‘Industrial’.

BylawNo. 2376 ,2024proposestoamend theZoningfor thesubject proper ty from ‘FD –FutureDevelopment ’to‘M1 –Light Industrial’.

TheCurrentL andUse DesignationandZoningintends to identif ylands forfuturedevelopment alignedwiththe generalvisionofthe correspondingOCP sector of Middlesboro toinclude amix of lowand medium densit yresidential, parks, andindus trialuses.

PROVIDEINPUT: Inputiswelcomedatthe Public HearingonTuesday,October 8, 2024 at 6:00 pm.Speak in person by signingupatthehearing, or by providinga written submissiontothe Corpor ateO ﬃcer at info@merritt.ca priortonoonFriday, Oc tober4, 2024,orbymailtothe CorporateO ﬃcer,Cit yofMerritt, PO Box189,Merritt, BC V1K1B8, to be received before theconclusionofthehearing.

Please note that Councilwillnot receivefur ther submissionsfromthe public concerning thisapplicationafterthe conclusion of thepublichearing.Itisthe responsibility of the submittertoensurethatmaterials arereceivedprior to theclose of thepublichearing

MOREINFORMATION: Acopyofthe proposed Bylawamendment smay be viewed Tuesday to Friday 8:00 am to 12:0 0pmand 1:15 pm to 5:45 pm at City Hall,2185Voght Street , MerrittBC, until Tuesday, Oc tober8,2024, or online at anytime at ww w.merritt .c a.

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Lytton wildfire sparked an ongoing food crisis in the region

through the community on June 30, 2021, killing two people and razing most of the town’s structures. Photo/The Canadian Press.

Three years after a wildfire destroyed Lytton, the disaster has left a lingering gap in food security.

In response, the Nlaka’pamux Nation Tribal Council’s (NNTC), which represents five communities including Lytton First Nation, is sounding the alarm on food security in the region.

“The NNTC has zero examples of recovery progress to supply food and essential household supplies for people affected by the 2021 wildfire and the loss of the local grocery store,” a press release from the tribal council said.

Matt Pasco, Chief of the NNTC, is calling on provincial and federal governments to fund a relief centre for Lytton region nations. Funding for a food security hub was about to end on October 1, but was recently extended for another three months. However, Pasco believes that a long term solution such as a permanent relief centre is still needed.

The permanent relief centre was suggested by a task force that was created following the 2021 wildfire, and the recommendation was adopted by the federal and provincial governments, who signed commitment letters. But now, Pasco says that both the feds and province are ignoring the advice of the task force, pointing to the tribal council to government programs.

“Even though the commitment letters committed the governments to doing things differently with the spirit of helping the people most in need, they’re really not doing that,” Pasco said.

Pasco saw firsthand the need for a onestop relief centre to help the First Nations he represents deal with wildfires in the region this summer. He says there was “essentially no place to be able to do a variety of things,

whether it was emergency response activity, being able to manage and help communities through the problems and so on.”

It’s an issue, as Pasco notes that Indigenous Peoples are among the most impacted population groups of environmental disasters.

“The ability to have a relief center goes way beyond just food security, it also is a way that we can help manage the myriad of emergency issues that come along,” he explained. “We have no place.”

To help the community with its recovery, the federal government has provided over $120M for rebuilding and to establish a temporary on-reserve grocery store [and] a food hub, Jennifer Kozelj, press secretary for Indigenous Services Canada minister Patty Hajdu said in a statement.

“Our message to Lytton First Nation then, remains the same now: we will be with you every step of the way as you recover and build back better,” she said.

Hajdu recently visited Lytton First Nation in April and saw both the devastation and the inspiring work by the Lytton Chief and council toward the community’s rebuild, Kozelj said.

However, Pasco is wary that grocery stores alone will be sufficient to meet the needs of the NNTC First Nations. Grocery stores exist in the realm of markets and supply and demand, and price fluctuations can leave people hungry, he said. Meanwhile, there are greater social issues involved for some community members that require a permanent solution that provides essential supplies to people in need.

The demand from the NNTC arrives only a few months before the federal government’s fall economic statement and ahead of a heated B.C. election where climate change remains a contested file.

The Village of Lytton after a wildfire tore

Matteo Cimellaro LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

LETTER to the editor

4H-Club: Hot days and happy memories

Editor,

It was SO hot. The 4H kids were sweating. My sheep Penny didn’t listen to me.

My favourite costume in the costume class was the lamb taco. Yummmmmy! The beef kids showed their cattle. The goats did an obstacle course and it was cool.

The rodeo after was great.

Laine Smith

4H-Club reporter

CITY ARTS: “The Salmon Run” by Leonard George

NV ARTS COUNCIL

CITY ARTS

“The Salmon Run”

Local Nlaka’pamux artist, Leonard George, painted “The Salmon Run” in the summer of 2022. He created complex, layered stencils and spongepainted the Lion’s Memorial Park Bridge over the Nicola River to create the salmon run. The detailed painting took many hours over the 2022 summer. Nicola Arts Council Summer interns, Kari Kroeker and Brookly Harris, assisted Leonard on several days, learning how to do the stencil painting with him. Many locals and visitors to the park spent time watching the art action.

From the Herald archives: Oct., 2015

EDUCATION AGREEMENT Accountability and communication highlight School District 58’s renewed local education agreement with the Upper Nicola Band.

“Over the years we’ve pointed the finger at the school district that we have to do things differently at the school district level, and in this agreement we’re also looking at ourselves,” Upper Nicola Band Chief Harvey McLeod said.

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

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

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Nicola Indian Band hosted their annual Orange Shirt Day Walk last Friday, Sept. 27, in honour of those affected by residential schools in Canada. For more pictures, access merrittherald.com. Photo/ Kenneth Wong

• Nicola Motorsports

• No Frills

• Save On Foods

• Pharmasave

• Canadian Tire

• Barkman Concrete

• Lordco

• City of Merritt

• Reliable Towing

• Royal Bank

• Community Futures • Purity Feed

• Home Hardware • Bumper to Bumper

YOUR SUPPORT MADE OUR SPRING AND FALL EVENTS GREAT.

Riders: If you own a quad or a side-by-side and want to ride with an organized group, we are reaching out to invite you to join us. We organize a club ride the third Sunday of each month, April-October.

Contact Secretary/Treasurer Doug Fleming @

Lower

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

FRONTLINEFILES

FILES

Wanted man Canada-wide believed to be in Merritt

Laísa Condé editor@merrittherald.com

Williams Lake RCMP continue to seek public assistance to locate Sem Weiss.

According to a press release, Sem Weiss is wanted for a home invasion and stabbing out of Williams Lake and is also wanted on a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on Canada wide warrant for removal from Canada.

“We have since learned that he may be in the Merritt,

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B.C. area,” the release reads. “Sem Weiss should be considered dangerous and under no circumstances should you approach or try to apprehend him.”

Weiss is described to be a white man with red hair, thin build and green eyes. He is five-feet-nineinches tall, weighs 119 pounds.

Anyone with information about Sem Weiss whereabouts is being asked to contact 911 immediately.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

New initiatives planned for Merritt Rotary Club

Rotary Club District 5060 Governor Tom Tochterman visited Merritt to discuss strategies for reinvigorating club and youth engagement.

District governor Tochterman’s visit focused on overcoming challenges posed by the pandemic, which reduced membership and disrupted activities, highlighting the need to engage younger generations in Rotary’s mission.

Rotary’s origins go back to 1905 when it was founded by Chicago attorney Paul Harris as a way for business professionals to network and give back to their communities.

Membership aimed to include diverse industry representatives, limiting each profession’s members to 10 per cent. Members had to manage their own schedules, afford fees, and actively participate in fundraising and social activities for local, regional, and global projects.

Former Merritt Rotary Club president (1997 to 1998) Francesco Rizzardo emphasized Rotary’s global impact, from polio eradication efforts to humanitarian work such as providing eyeglasses and cleft lip surgeries in developing nations.

“Our club has worked on various projects locally, such as Rotary Park, the band shell, and the bike park,” Rizzardo said. “Internationally, we’ve sponsored wells in Africa and supported the Smile Program, which provides surgeries for children with cleft lips.”

In Merritt, the Rotary Club is currently planning several new initiatives, including a food-safe trailer to enhance fundraising efforts. “This trailer will improve our ability to host events like pancake breakfasts and raise funds for community projects,” Rizzardo explained.

The Rotary Club also runs a long-standing student exchange program for grade 11 and 12 students, offering the opportunity to live abroad for a year, attend school, and foster cross-cultural relationships through Rotary’s global network.

“(Students) have to attend school, they have to report to that local host club, they have to tell them about their home in Merritt, they have to try and share cultures and information with that host country and the host family to improve the relationships between those two societies,” explained Rizzardo.

The club, which currently has 14 members, hopes to double its membership in the coming years. “If we could

get back to around 30 or 40 members, it would allow us to do so much more,” the member added. Efforts to bring in younger members include the ongoing student exchange program, which allows high school students to live abroad and build cross-cultural relationships.

The club encourages those interested in community service to reach out. “All we need to know is that you’re interested,” said Rizzardo, inviting locals to attend a meeting and learn more.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Rotary Club of Merritt website or contact the club directly.

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

(Left) Tom Tochterman poses with Dave Brown as he visited Merritt Rotary Club to talk about how attract more youth engagement. Photo/Rotary Club

The World Cancer Research Fund International reports that breast cancer is the second most common cancer across the globe, and the number one cancer in women. Nearly three million new cases of breast cancer in women are diagnosed across the globe each year.

Breast cancer poses a notable threat to women’s health, but research and resulting advancements in treatment have made the disease more treatable than ever. Women also can play a part in ensuring better outcomes in relation to breast cancer by educating themselves about the disease, including its warning signs. The MD Anderson Cancer Center notes that most changes to the breast are a byproduct of hormonal cycles or conditions that are not as formidable as breast cancer. So women should not jump to any conclusions when spotting such changes. However, the MDACC recommends women visit their physicians if they notice any of the following signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

• Lump: The MDACC notes that a lump in the breast or armpit is the most common symptom of breast cancer. Echoing assertions made by the MDACC, the American Cancer Society notes that most breast lumps are not cancerous. The ACS indicates a lump that is a painless, hard mass with irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, though cancerous lumps also can be soft, round, tender, or even painful. The lack of

Physical symptoms of breast cancer

uniformity regarding cancerous lumps is one reason why it pays for women to be extra cautious and immediately report any abnormalities in the shape and feel of their breasts to their physicians.

• Swelling: The ACS notes that some women with breast cancer will experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they do not feel a lump.

• Dimpling: The MDACC reports that women with breast cancer may notice dimpling or puckering on the breast. According to the ACS, the dimpling can sometimes make the breast look like an orange peel.

• Nipple retraction: The National Cancer Institute notes that nipple retraction occurs when a nipple turns inward into the breast or lies flat against the breast. Though nipple retraction can be a sign of breast cancer, the NCI notes that’s not necessarily the case for all women. Some women experience nipple retraction due to aging, breastfeeding, injury, infection, surgery, or certain conditions of the breast.

• Changes to the skin around the breast: The ACS notes some women with breast cancer experience redness on the skin around the breast or on the nipple. Additional changes may include dry, flaking or thickened skin around the breast and nipple.

• Discharge from the nipple: The Mayo Clinic notes that it’s normal to experience discharge from the nipple while pregnant and during breastfeeding. However, fluid coming out the nipple when a woman is not pregnant or breastfeeding could be a symptom of breast cancer.

• Additional symptoms: The MDACC notes scaliness on the nipple that sometimes extends to the areola is another warning sign of breast cancer. The ACS also reports that swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone can indicate that breast cancer has spread even before the original tumor in the breast has been felt.

Breast cancer is a formidable yet treatable disease. Women who recognize any signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer are urged to contact their physicians immediately.

•

As diagnosis and treatment options continue to evolve, medical experts agree that early detection is a key factor in overcoming the disease, and performing a monthly breast self-exam is often vital to detecting abnormalities, including lumps or tenderness, in the breasts that may indicate illness. Take steps to protect yourself against breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month by initiating healthy lifestyle changes, beginning monthly breast selfexams, and talking to your doctor about the appropriate clinical breast exam and screening mammogram schedule for you.

TAKE CARE OF YOU

Everything else can politely wait its turn.

Take a ride and enjoy the freedom feeling.

SALES SERVICE RENTALS

What young women should know about breast cancer

A prevailing myth concerning breast cancer is that it only affects older women. Various medical organizations and institutions recommend women begin receiving mammograms starting at age 40, which may compel women younger than 40 to think that they are immune to breast cancer. Yale Medicine notes breast cancer in younger individuals is rare, but the organization reports it is the most common cancer among women between the ages of 15 and 39. In addition, a body of evidence points to a growing rate of breast cancer diagnoses in younger women.

The Cleveland Clinic says breast cancer in young women and people assigned female at birth is known as early-onset breast cancer. Even adolescents and young adults can get breast cancer. Although young people can get any form of breast cancer, invasive ductal carcinoma and triple-negative breast cancer are the most common forms of the disease among young women.

Diagnoses of breast cancer have steadily risen in women under age 50 over the last 20 years, says the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Researchers believe the surge is largely driven by increases in the number of women

diagnosed with estrogen-receptor positive tumors, which are cancerous tumors fueled by estrogen. The researchers also found higher rates of breast cancer among Black women, particularly those between the ages of 20 and 29. Black women in this age group were found to have a 53 percent increased risk of breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation says that breast cancers in women under age 40 are more likely to have features that contribute to poorer outcomes and prognoses. Larger tumor size, advanced tumor stage, negative hormone receptor status, and an over-expression of the HER2 protein are some such features. The BCRF also reports younger women are more likely to experience a recurrence at five and 10 years after therapy compared to older women.

It is essential for younger women to be in tune with their bodies and learn to recognize any signs that may be indicative of breast cancer. Since annual screenings are not often part of preventative health plans for women younger than 40, adolescents and young adults need to alert their doctors if they suspect anything is wrong. Unfortunately, by the time a tumor in the breast can be felt, it likely has been present for some time already. Younger patients also are more likely to have a genetic connection to breast cancer. Individuals with one or more family members who were diagnosed with breast cancer are at higher risk and may want to consider screening at earlier ages.

Breast cancer is not a disease that only affects women 40 and older. Younger people can get breast cancer, and it’s often a surprise and sometimes more aggressive.

First-degree connection

Inherited damaged genes

Getting tested

A look at inherited breast cancer

Individuals can make various changes to their lifestyles to help reduce their chances of developing certain types of cancer, including breast cancer. One thing they cannot change is their genes, prompting curiosity about the role of family history in relation to breast cancer risk.

Parents pass down many things to their children, including hair color, height, and various other traits. Parents also can pass on an increased risk for breast cancer. Cancer Research UK says some people have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than the general population simply because other members of their families have had cancer. The organization says having a mother, sister or daughter (also referred to as a first-degree relative) diagnosed with breast cancer approximately doubles a woman’s risk for breast cancer. This risk grows even higher when more close relatives have breast cancer, or if a relative developed breast cancer before reaching the age of 50.

Johns Hopkins Medicine says about 10 percent of breast cancers are related to inheritance of damaged genes. Several genes are associated with elevated breast cancer risk, including BRCA1 and BRCA2. Additional genes associated with an increased risk for breast cancer include PALB2, ATM, CHEK2, CDH1, STK11, PTEN, TP53, and NF1. People who have inherited a damaged gene may have a particularly high risk of developing breast cancer or other cancers, depending on the specific gene and their family history.

Johns Hopkins says individuals can be tested for genes that

put them at risk for cancer. That is a decision that merits ample consideration, and one that should be carefully discussed with a doctor and family members. Genetic counseling can look for inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, the two most notable for increasing breast cancer risk. A blood test is typically covered by insurance companies and analysis can take a couple of weeks. More can be learned about genetic counseling and testing at www.cancer.org.

Whether or not to get genetic testing is a personal decision. However, learning the outcome may help protect future generations. Someone with a genetic mutation has about a 50 percent chance of passing that trait on to children.

Additional risk factors

Heredity is just one risk factor for breast cancer. The American Cancer Society says White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer than some other races and ethnicities. Studies have found that taller women have a higher risk of breast cancer than shorter women, although the reasons for that are not exactly clear. In addition, women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of breast cancer than women with average breast density. Women who began menstruating early (especially before age 12) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. That risk can be attributed to a longer exposure to the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The same can be said for women who experienced menopause later (typically after age 55). Various factors can increase the risk of developing breast cancer, including genetic markers and family history of the disease.

An

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

New fire agreement for Lower Nicola

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Merritt city council approved a fiveyear agreement to extend fire suppression services to three Lower Nicola Indian Band reserves.

The agreement covers LNIB reserves Lindley Creek (Reserve No. 1), Joeyaska (Reserve No. 2), and Zoht (Reserve No. 4), covering 34 residential structures, providing exterior firefighting services and response to wildfires threatening structures.

The agreement ensures faster response times from the Merritt Fire Rescue Department (MFRD) due to the proximity of LNIB lands to the Merritt Fire Station.

Historically, fewer than five fire incidents have been reported in these areas.

Valued at $57,498.34 over five years, the agreement excludes services for commercial or industrial properties and focuses on residential firefighting at the “exterior operations” level, as outlined in the BC Structure Firefighting Minimum Training Standards.

Whilst the LNIB Fire Department can respond, it would otherwise need to traverse Merritt’s jurisdiction, making this collaboration mutually beneficial.

The partnership aims to improve fire safety for LNIB residents while fostering cooperation between the communities. The City and Band may renegotiate the agreement if a significant increase in fire incidents occurs.

Uber Eats rolls into town this week

Kenneth Wong reporter@merrittherald.com

Uber Eats was launched in Merritt this week, on Oct. 2.

“I’m comfortable saying Wednesday, but there’s always a small chance, because it’s tech, that something happens; but if it’s delayed, it’s only delayed by a day, so I’m not too concerned,” said Keerthana Rang, corporate communications lead at Uber Canada.

According to Rang, Merritt was chosen due to a growing demand from both customers and merchants. “We’ve noticed that people (in Merritt) are already opening the app and looking for Uber Eats,” Rang shared. “For people who have opened up Uber Eats (in Merritt) or they’ve been in that area, we send an email out so folks know that we’re coming and to get ready.”

“The other thing we see on the merchant or restaurant side, if they already have restaurants in other cities, and they have one in Merritt, they’re often asking us if we can also come to their other cities that they’re in, because that way they can use Uber Eats as a marketing tool and as a revenue stream,” Rang added.

According to Rang, 70 per cent of customers have ordered from a restaurant they have never dined at using Uber Eats; 44 per cent of Canadians have reported using delivery apps to order food or essential items using Uber Eats.

The expansion to Merritt is a part of a larger expansion into the B.C. Interior. In the last year, Uber Eats has launched in towns across the province such as Vernon, Whistler, Penticton, Fort St. John, Powell River, Williams Lake, Nelson and beyond.

Despite the expansion, only Uber’s food delivery service will be coming to Merritt for the time being.

“Uber is always open to having discussions with municipalities to see how we can partner together,” said Rang. “For example, last year, we expanded to Victoria and Kelowna. We have no plans to expand rideshare to Merritt right now, but if that changes, we’ll share more information at that time.”

On the first week of the launch, Uber delivery drivers will make an additional $15 per trip (up to $75). Potential drivers can apply via the Uber app or on their website at https://www.uber.com/ca/en/deliver/.

School

registrations forK to 12

•Individualized1:1learning

•Nsyilxcənandonthelandlearning experiences

•Schoolsupplies,breakfast,snackandlunchprovided

•Bussing forLowerNicolaandMerrittarea

•Open to allstudents.

nk.principal@uppernicola.com 250-350-3496

VO TE IN TH E PR OV IN CI AL EL ECTION

The 2024 Provincial General Election is on Saturday, October 19, 2024. There are many ways (and many days) to vote.

WHO CAN VOTE

You can vote in the 2024 Provincial General Elec tion if you are:

•18 or older on Oc tober 19, 2024

• a Canadian citizen, and

•a resident of British Columbia since April 18, 2024

VOTER REGISTRATION

You can register or update your voter information at elections.bc.ca/register or by calling 1- 80 0- 661- 8683.

Registration online and by phone closes at 11:59 p.m. (Pacif ic time) on Oc tober 7.

Af ter Oc tober 7, you can still register when you vote, but voting will take longer Remember to bring ID when you go to vote.

WHERE AND WHEN TO VOTE

Voting Places for Fraser-Nicola

Agassiz Agricultural Assn Hall 6800 Pioneer Ave, Kent, BC

VOTE IN PERSON

Vote at a District Electoral Of fice

Voting at district elec toral of fices is available now during of fice hours until 4 p.m. (Pacif ic time) on Final Voting Day.

Vote at Advance Voting

There are six days of advance voting: Oc tober 10 - 13 and 15 - 16, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time).

Advance voting places will be closed on Oc tober 14 (Thanksgiving)

Vote on Final Voting Day

Final Voting Day is Saturday, Oc tober 19. Voting places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Pacif ic time) on Final Voting Day.

VOTE BY MA IL

To vote by mail, request your voting package as soon as possible. Visit elections.bc.ca/votebymail or call 1- 80 0- 661- 8683

WHERE TO VOTE

Visit wheretovote.elections.bc.ca to find voting places near you and when they are open

NE W ELEC TORAL DISTRICTS

There are new elec toral districts for the 2024 provincial elec tion To see a map of your new elec toral district, enter your address at elections.bc.ca/mydistrict.

Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley 47585 Trans-Canada Hw y, Boston Bar, BC

Leq’á:mel Comm Hall 43101 Leq’a:mel Way, Lake Errock, BC

Lillooet & District Rec Centre 930 Main St, Lillooet, BC

Logan Lake Fire Hall 120 Chartrand Pl, Logan Lake, BC

Merritt Civic Centre 1950 Mamette Ave, Merritt, BC

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 228 344 Fort St, Hope, BC

Village of Lytton - Parish Hall 140 7th St, Lytton, BC

VO TE IN TH E PR OV IN CI AL EL ECTION

Voting Places for Fraser-Nicola

Election Day Voting Places (open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time on Saturday, Oc tober 19, 2024)

Agassiz Agricultural Assn Hall

6800 Pioneer Ave, Kent, BC

Battlefield Comm Centre

Battlefield Rd, Ly tton, BC

Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley

47585 Trans- Canada Hw y, Boston Bar, BC

Coldwater Comm Hall

109 400th St, Merrit t, BC

Dewdney Elem School

37151 Hawkins Pickle Rd, Dewdney, BC

Elder’s Lodge - Seton Lake/Tsal’alh Band

600 Sk ’il Mountain Rd, Shalalth, BC

Gold Bridge Comm Centre

40 Hurley St, Gold Bridge, BC

Harrison Hot Springs Memorial Hall

290 Esplanade Ave, Harrison Hot Springs, BC

Harrison Mills Comm Hall

1995 School Rd, Kent, BC

Leq’á:mel Comm Hall

43101 Leq’a:mel Way, Lake Errock, BC

Candidates for Fraser-Nicola

Lillooet & District Rec Centre

930 Main St, Lillooet, BC

Logan Lake Fire Hall

120 Char trand Pl, Logan Lake, BC

Lower Nicola Band Hall 85 8 Hw y, Lower Nicola, BC

Lower Nicola Comm Hall

2383 Aberdeen Mine Rd, Lower Nicola, BC

Merritt Civic Centre

1950 Mamette Ave, Merrit t, BC

Our Lady of Lourdes Church 5A and Douglas Lake Rd, Quilchena, BC

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 228

34 4 Fort St, Hope, BC

Seabird Island Millennium Hall 2736 Sq’ewqel Dr, Kent, BC

Shackan Comm Hall

4943 Potatoeillshie Rd, Merrit t, BC

Shxw’ōwhámél First Nation Band Office Gym 58700A St Elmo Rd, Laidlaw, BC

Silver Creek Elem School 63831 School Rd, Hope, BC

Spences Bridge Comm Hall 36 41 8 Hw y, Spences Bridge, BC

The Meeting Place 9390 Manuel Rd, Douglas Lake, BC

Ts’kw’aylaxw First Nation Health Bldg 35100 99 Hw y, Pavilion, BC

Village of Lytton - Parish Hall 140 7th St, Ly tton, BC

Xaxli’p Admin Office 1433 Fountain Valley Rd, Fountain, BC

Xwísten Band Office 1A Joseph Rd, Lillooet, BC

Yale Comm Centre 65050 Albert St, Yale, BC

Fraser-Nicola 2975 Clapperton Ave Merrit t, BC (778) 661- 0610 Hours of Operation (local time)

Candidate’s Name:Financial Agent: Of ficial Agent:

Francyne Joe

BC NDP

Tony Luck

Conservative Party

Jonah Timms

BC Green Party

Prashad Katapodi Kankanamge 403-2046 Robson Pl, Kamloops, BC, V2E 0A 5 (250) 879- 46 48

Noreen Cross 2861 8 Hw y, Merrit t, BC, V1K 1P3 (250) 280-5450

Libby Juras 8- 430 4th Ave, Kamloops, BC, V2C 3P3 (250) 852-2735

Corally Delwo 1719 Bearcrof t Cour t, Kamloops BC, V2B 8M2

Centennials aim to bounce back from four losses

The Merritt Centennials are five games into their regular season and remain on the hunt for their second win after losing all three games over the long weekend.

Friday, Sept. 27 – Merritt Centennials 3, Kamloops Storm 4

The Centennials came up short during their home opener on Friday night, Sept. 27, losing 4-3 against the Kamloops Storm.

Kamloops came out of the gate strong and took an early lead just over five minutes into the first period. The visiting team’s dominance throughout the game would result in two more unanswered goals to make the score 3-0.

But what seemed to be an easy win for Kamloops quickly turned to a thrilling game during the final frame as Merritt players didn’t let the score bring them down.

Wyatt Ball found the back of the net during a powerplay for the Cents early in the third.

Later, both Steven Foster and Dylan Ruff scored for Merritt, tying the game 3-3 by the end of the final frame.

As the match needed overtime to decide a winner, fans in Merritt got to watch some extra hockey.

Before the Centennials could get a shot on the net in the extra frame, Aaron Zulinick scored the winning goal for the Kamloops Storm as the Cents fell 4-3.

Saturday, Sept. 21 – Merritt Centennials 2, Sicamous Eagles 6

The Merritt Centennials hit the ice again on Sept. 28 for their first game against the Sicamous Eagles at the Sicamous & District Recreation Centre. Merritt found the back of the net early in the game with a goal by Sam Giangualano just over two minutes in.

Sicamous rebounded with a goal of their own to tie the game, shortly followed by another goal to take the lead in the first period.

The Cents added another goal to the scoreboard with Rhett Serfas, tying the game 2-2. By the end of first period, the Eagles managed to score a goal of their own to take back the lead.

A balanced second period between Sicamous and Merritt left the score untouched by either of the teams, despite the 10 shots on goal for Merritt and seven shots for Sicamous.

The pressure of a tied game wasn’t enough to keep Sicamous from scoring during the final frame.

The Eagles managed to exploit the Cents’ disorganization and added three unanswered goals throughout the final period.

The Centennials fell 6-2 to the Sicamous Eagles on their second game of the long weekend.

Monday, Sept. 30 – Merritt Centennials 1, Princeton Posse 5

The Merritt Centennials were back in action for their second home game of the weekend as they faced the Princeton Posse.

The game marked a special occasion for Truth and Reconciliation, in honour of

those who were affected by residential schools in Canada. Prior to the puck drop, players from both teams were mixed together in a display of unity as Lower Nicola Indian Band Chief Stu Jackson spoke about what truth and reconciliation means. Princeton put it past the goalie twice early in the first period, setting the score 2-0 early in the game. Merritt added a goal of their own by the end of the first period with Steven Foster.

Despite the 14 shots on goal throughout the second and final frame of the game, Merritt didn’t manage to find the back of the net.

Princeton added three goals to the scoreboard throughout the second and third period, setting the final score to 5-1.

Wes McLeod, Merritt Centennials’ head coach, analyzed the team’s performance on Monday.

“The guys didn’t seem to want to be invested in being first to get the puck and winning races and get to the net and that was a big focus for us before the game, was winning the nets,” he told the Herald. “We wanted to be good in front of our own net, we wanted to get traffic and pucks to their net and we didn’t win that battle last night.”

McLeod added that despite the team’s four losses in a row, he feels optimistic that things will improve soon.

“It’s important to preach patience. It takes time and it’s something that we’ve known from day one that we would be in a tough position off the hop here as a first year team,” he said. “With patience, we continue to grow and get these players to where they need to be.

“I’m confident that as the season goes along, we’re going to be a lot better later on in the season. That’s because of our age and our maturity and just allowing these players to have time to grow and develop.”

UPCOMING HOME GAMES

Laísa Condé newsroom@merrittherald.com

If the amount of delinquent taxes, ta es in arrear, and interest to the ﬁrst day of the ta sale for which the parcel of land and the improvements are liable for sale are not paid before the annual tax sale, the City of Merritt will oﬀer the proper ty for sale by public auction at the time and place stated in this notice

If the property is sold at the annual tax sale, a right of redemption will remain in the owner or holder of the charge until the end of the redemption period

The City of Merritt makes no representation expressed or implied as to the condition or quality of the properties being oﬀered for sale Prospective purchasers are urged to make all necessary inquiries to municipal and other government departments, and in the case of strata lots to the strata corporation, to determine the existence of any bylaws, restriction, charges, or other conditions which may

aﬀect the value or sustainability of the property Due diligence does not include trespassing on properties that may be available at the auction.

Any person upon being declared the successful bidder must provide photo ID and immediately pay by cash or certiﬁed cheque a minimum of not less than the upset price Failure to pay this amount will result in the property being oﬀered for sale again Purchase of a Tax Sale Property is subject to tax under the Proper-

Photos/Laísa Condé & Kenneth Wong

New washroom facilities unveiled at Fall Fair grounds

Laísa Condé newsroom@merrittherald.com

The Nicola Valley Fall Fair Association is celebrating a new milestone as washroom units have been installed on the property.

Three trailers were installed next to the Fall Fair building with a handicapped, a men’s and a women’s washroom – all equipped with stalls and sinks.

“We’ve been working on getting the washrooms for probably 40 years, but we could never get that close,” Kathy Reimer, treasurer at the Nicola Valley Fall Fair Association, said.

During the years, the association managed to save some money for the project, including a generous donation from an anonymous donor. But, with the area being incorporated into the city limits, the money was used for other operating requirements.

“We were back to (square) one. We were lucky enough that, over the years, we had old fashioned outhouses. Then later on, we got a bunch of barrels and we put them in and then put the washrooms over top so we would get them pumped out, rather than being an outhouse,” Reimer added.

Reimer shared that the new facility holds great significance to the association and the community.

“It’s going to be a blessing. I’ve been here over 40 years and the only part that I’m sad about is all those ladies that worked so hard, didn’t get to see it done,” Reimer added.

Reimer added that the association managed

to raise $60,000 through their summer garage sales throughout the past five years, which helped to partially pay for the trailers.

“Now we’re on the bandwagon fundraising for the decking to put around (the trailers), you have to have railings, you have to have a ramp for handicap. So now, we’re on the push for that,” she said.

Reimer also highlighted all the hard work that volunteers put out over the years at the Fall Fair.

“We’ve got such a good crew that comes and helps,” she said. “We need more people, young people. We’ve been very lucky that when it comes down to the actual fair, a lot of people come and help to get ready, because it’s hard when you have a limited number of people.”

Aside from the new washrooms, the Fall Fair also received a $600 cheque from TNRD for the operation of the Fair this year.

Susan Thompson, treasurer at the Nicola Valley Fall Fair Association, pointed out the success of this year’s Fall Fair.

“Our numbers were just about double what they were last year, so it was really heartening to see,” she said. “We’ve had a bit of a struggle since COVID, because we didn’t run during COVID, and then it’s hard to get people back on the page, to get them thinking about it.”

“It’s just incredible to see all the talented people in our community and this is a way that they can show it, you know, show other people what they do.”

■ Approved mini-storage

■ On-siterentals

■ Secured

■ SaleofNew&Used storagecontainers

1750HillStreet ■ 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

2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899

Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772

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

Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Nicola Valley Fall Fair Association representatives

Susan Thompson and Kathy Reimer pose next to Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz, TNRD directors David Laird and Herb Graham during the $154,800 cheque presentation. Photo/Laísa Condé

CLASSIFIEDS

I,PiaraSinghKakaRandhawa,sonofKartarSinghandChanan Kaur,residentofSaidowalJalandhar,JalandharPIN:144623, PUNJAB,INDIA,andpresentlyresidingat1413CowleyStreet MerrittBCV1K1G5,doherebychangemynamefromPiaraSingh KakaRandhawatoPiaraSinghRandhawa,withimmediateeffect.

Scw’exmx Communit yH ealthS er vicesS ociety StoyomaD entalClinic EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNIT Y

•Dentalassistant worksc hair si de alongwiththe Dentist. They areessential to creating ac onnectionbet ween clientsand dentists.The incumbentmaintains ac ollaborative relationship with clientsand allmembers of theoralhealthc areteamtodeliver thehighest levelofc lientc enteredc are.

•Weare seekingap ositiveteammember, whoisenergetic,organized,and ac ompassionate caring indivi dual.Thisindividualismindful of detail andacc uracyinall reporting. Training provided with op portunitiestofur ther educ atetobec omec er tiﬁedand licensed

•The incumbentpromotesthe safety andwell- beingofc lients andwhennec es sary, communic ates immediatec oncernstoappropriate StoyomaDentalstaff

•O ur of ﬁc eisc ommitted to positive andinc lusive dental prac ticestoprovi de thebest patientexperienc e. Ourdentalser vicesare availabletothe public,foc usingonser ving andmeeting thec omplex needs of localFir st Nation indivi duals.

We of fe ra comp etitivesalar yof$ 25 -$ 31/hrbased on experi ence andfullb en eﬁts with ap ension.Thispositionisp ermanent averaging3 -5 days perwee kM ondaytoFriday.

Please submit resume to: StoyomaDentalClinic

Loca tion: Basement of thehospitalacrossf romt he elevator.

ProudlyrecognizedasMerritt'sBestBookkeeper/Accountantofthe2019,2020,and2021 People'sChoiceAwards.It'sbeenourpleasureandprivilegetoserveourcommunityforover20 yearsandwelookforwardtobringinganothercommunitymembertojoinouroﬃce.Attentionto detailandbeingateamplayerisparamount.Salarywillbedependantonexperience.

20 88 QuilchenaAvenue- PO Box3 09 0Merritt,BCV1K 1B 8 oremail: palmgren.d@s chss.c om

Maintaingeneralledgersandfinancialstatements. Calculateandpreparechequesforpayroll. Prepareotherstatistical,financial,andaccounting reports. Keepfinancialrecordsandestablish,maintain,and balancevariousaccountsusingSage50. MustbeeﬃcientinMicrosoftExcelandWord. Please email resumeto cjrbook@telus.net, or mail to Attn.ConnieRauch(Owner)

Formoreinformation: Call 250-280-1701, email: merritthospice@shaw.ca, website: www.merritthospice.orgorvisituson Facebook: MerrittHospice 2113Granite Ave.,Merritt,BC 250-378-2141 or1-800-668-3379

PUZZLE ANSWERS

SpecificDutiesandResponsibilities: PerformsalldutiesandresponsibilitiesinaccordancewiththeColdwaterIndianBand policies,standards,andprocedures,andasdirectedbytheFinanceCoordinator.Maintains confidentialityinallmatterstotheaffairsoftheColdwaterIndianBand. 1.Provideinformationandlinkagetoappropriatecommunityservices; 2.Guideandmotivateduringimportantperiodsofdevelopmentintheirwellnessjourney; 3.AcceptreferralsfromCommunity,SocialWorkers,othercommunityservicesandetc.; 4.Outreachandengagementinthewiththecommunity; 5.Developandmaintainparticipantdrivenintegratedwellnessplans; 6.Advocateforparticipants’needs; 7.Supportparticipantstobuildcapacityinareassuchascommunication, self-advocacy a ndrelationships; 8.Participatewithteaminprovidingdeliverableactivitiesorinformation. 9.Participateinteammeetings; 10.Maintainaccuraterecords; 11.Otherrelateddutiesasassigned. RequirementofCommunityConnectionsNavigator •DiplomaorDegreeinSocialWork(otherrelatedfieldswillbeconsidered); •ExperienceworkingwithFirstNationsCommunity; •AccesstoreliablevehicleandcurrentDriver’slicense; •PassableCriminalRecordCheckandDriver’sAbstract; •Ableandwillingtoworksomeeveningsandweekends.

VALUEADDED LUMBERREMANUFACTURINGPLANT

PRODUCTIONWORKERS (FT/PT)

•Wages:starting$20to$28

•Steadydayshiftwork

•Studentswelcometoapply

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TRUCKDRIVERSWITHCLASS1 Localsteadywork

LICENCEDSECURITYGUARDS

Excellentmedical&dentalplan

Pleasesubmitresumeinpersonto 1195HoustonStreet,MerrittB.C.

Scw’exmxCommunityHealthServicesSociety EMPLOYMENTOPPORUTNITY HEALTHCLERK/RECEPTIONIST

REPORTSTO: ExecutiveDire

LandAct:NoticeofApplicationforaDispositionofCrownLand

RESPONSIBILITIES: TheHealthClerkwillassumethesecretarial, clericaland receptionistdutiesunderthesupervisionofthe ExecutiveDirectorandwillpe quired.They arealsosubjecttothePoliciesandProceduresoftheScw’exmx CommunityHealthServicesSociety(SCHSS).Thepositionwillbe responsiblefortheprovisionofadministrativeandclericalsupport totheSCHSSprograms.

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

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

Thispositionwillbe responsibleforensuringthat portsderived fromthedatabaseaccurately reflectthemostup-to-datehealth statusofthecommunitiesofColdwater, Shackan,andNooaitch. Theywillalsobe responsibleforarrangingandensuringpayment formedicalappointmentsforclientsandestablishingtheirmedical traveleligibilityforfundingundertheNon-Insu dHealthBenefits Program.

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

Requiresexperience withstanda officeequipmentandMicrosoft Office.

ExperienceworkingwithFirstNationscommunitiesisanasset.

Weofferacompetitivesalaryandfullbenefits

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VETERINARY CLINIC

Scw’exmxCommunityHealthServicesSociety laySmith enuePOBox3090Merritt,BCV1K1B8 ception@schss.com

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Scw’exmxCommunityHealthServicesSociety EmploymentOpportunity MEDICALOFFICEASSISTANTPOSITION

AsaMedicalAssistantyouwillbe sponsibleforprovidingadministrative supporttoensu theefficientoperationofthemedicaloffice. supportdoctorsandpatientsth ughavarietyoftasks latedtopatient care management,organization,andcommunication.