Merritt Herald November 17, 2022

Highway 8 reopens after months of repair

beyond to help us to reach this important milestone,” said Fleming.

“We all owe a huge debt of gratitude for the impressive work that crews and staff have done to reconnect the people and communities along Highway 8.”

Chief Christine Minnabarriet of Cooks Ferry, Chief Arnie Lampreau of Shackan, Chief Marcel Shackelly of Nooaitch, and Chief Norman Drynock of Nicomen attended the reopening, and all spoke to the importance of the cor ridor. The Chiefs urged Minister Fleming and his government to continue to col laborate with First Nations, and thanked him for his work during the Highway 8 restoration project.

“We are happy to have that corri dor open to connect families and bring them home. It has significant value to our nation — it provides connection to each other, our resources, hunting, fish ing, gathering, even spiritual. But also to health care and other emergency ser vices,” said Chief Minnabarriet.

WEATHER

Nov. 17: Partly Cloudy -2°/-13°C

Nov. 18: Partly Cloudy -4°/-13°C

Nov. 19: Partly Cloudy -3°/-14°C

Nov. 20: Cloudy 1°/-12°C

Nov. 21: Cloudy 4°/-7°C

Nov. 22: 60% Snow 3°/-5°C

Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

After 11 months, countless work hours, and collaboration between the provincial government and local First Nations, the Highway 8 corridor from Merritt to Spences Bridge is open once again. A press conference was held in Merritt on November 9, 2022, followed by an opening ceremony approximately 15 kilometers from Spences Bridge at the site of a major washout.

The reopening press conference was held at the Merritt Civic Centre, where project stakeholders, municipal officials, provincial representatives, and four Chiefs of First Nations impacted by the closure of the highway were present. Merritt CAO Sean Smith emceed the event, introducing B.C’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Rob Fleming, who announced the highway’s reopening and thanked all those involved in recovery efforts.

“From the first day of the atmospheric river, people have gone above and

The Highway 8 corridor from Merritt to Spences Bridge was heavily dam aged by the atmospheric river event in November 2021, washing away entire sections of asphalt and closing the stretch of road for 361 days. A number of sites were eroded, covered with debris, or alto gether lost to the overpowering flow of water. The corridor saw further damage in August 2022, when a mudslide caused by precipitation halted recovery efforts in parts of the area. A further 23 hectares of agricultural land was damaged in this event.

The restoration project, which was taken on by six different contractors and five First Nations, has resulted in a fully reconnected highway. The area is still an active construction site, as permanent repairs are underway. Fleming told the Herald that no timeline is available for the permanent restoration of the high way, work is already underway to secure contractors and restore the highway back to its former glory.

Drivers utilizing the newly reopened are asked to drive with caution near traffic workers, obey all temporary road signs, and drive to conditions. For up-todate closure and weather information, visit www.drivebc.ca.

REMEMBRANCE WALK

The Herald spoke to Goetz to get his thoughts on the flooding event, how the new elected officials are dealing with its impact, and what he plans to do to commemorate its one year anniversary.

Search ‘GOETZ’

Scw’exmx Community Health Services, Scw’exmx Child & Family Services, Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly, Nlaka’pamux Health Services, Conayt Friendship Society, the Merritt Community Policing Office, and Ask Wellness partnered up to bring warm clothing and homemade food to those who need it.

DRIVE’

Highway 8 officially reopend on November 9, 2022. Marius Auer/Herald

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Rob Fleming, officially reopens Highway 8 on November 9, 2022, nearly one year after it was closed by flooding. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius

Highlights from Seniors Association’s AGM

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Looking to facilitate con nection between seniors in the com munity, the Merritt Senior Citizens Association’s new executive is excited to offer a host of programming and continue existing events. The group, which operates the Seniors Centre on Tutill Court, recently held its annual gen eral meeting, and is looking forward to upcoming events.

The Seniors Association will host a free seniors luncheon on Friday, November 18, from 12:00 PM to 1:30PM at the Seniors Centre. A soup entree will be served, fol lowed by dessert, all prepared in the space’s newly reno

vated kitchen. The luncheon will also serve as a venue for social interac tion and building new connections, both for attend ees and members of the Seniors Association.

“We received a donation from one of our local com panies to do some thing with meals for seniors,” said Pam Ottas, director with the Seniors Association.

“Our next lun cheon is this Friday, it’s from noon till 1:30 pm, and it’s absolutely free to any senior in Merritt. You don’t have to be a mem ber of the associa tion.”

The association hopes to host lun cheons on a regular basis, dependent on

attendance num bers to the next event. Attendance in past months has been low, but Ottas is confident that more com munity members will attend. Anyone over the age of 40 is free to attend and join the Seniors Association, but executive members must be 55 plus. The newly elected executive is excited to host their first luncheon as a group, along with other ideas that are in the works.

“We have some new visions, and we’re going to try and work a lot more in the com munity now that some of the restric tions have been lift ed,” added Ottas.

“You no longer have to wear a mask in the Seniors Centre, so that’s going to help.”

Seniors in Merritt are wel come to attend the luncheon, or get involved with the Merritt Senior Citizens Association in a number of differ ent ways. There are many goingson at the Seniors Centre, located 1675 Tutill Court, with events taking place almost every day. The group’s membership is now over 100, and plans are in the works for new activ ity programming.

Ottas added that the group hopes to start a walking group, and possibly a bus tour service.

For more information on the Merritt Senior Citizens Association, visit the Seniors Centre in the museum building, or call 250-378-3763.

The newly elected members of the Merritt Senior Citizens Association’s board invite seniors in the community to a free luncheon this Friday, November 18. Photo/MSCA

Making friends in mid-life

Last week I turned 51 and I’ve been thinking about the challenges the first year of my 50s presented. It’s been a collectively challenging year for Merrittonians, for many a lot more than for me. One thing I keep coming back to is how hard it is to make friends as we get older.

We have gotten too comfortable sharing our personal opinions on social media - and I believe that’s what is keeping us from connecting in real life. Social media has been a great tool to stay connected when we couldn’t in person; it was a way to expand our circle and be exposed to new ideas, except that’s not what happened - we stayed in the circles we’re comfortable in, the circles that amplify and anchor our beliefs. There is no reality check and on a local level, it has real consequences. So what now? Let’s reverse the trend! Let’s start by keeping our personal opinions to ourselves on social media and act like we are more than just our opinions, because we are. Let’s be helpful and contribute to discussions without furthering our own agendas. Let’s reclaim our ability to have a conversation online without announcing our political values, and show some empathy instead.

I recently posted on my own Facebook page and mentioned that I’m glad November is coming, because I don’t like the spooky month of October; someone commented that they agree, but “play along to get along” and I’ve been thinking about that comment ever since. Let’s play along to get along and start making friends again, online and offline.

LETTERS to the editor

‘Thank you for taking care of my dad’

Editor,

I would like to send a huge shoutout to all the doctors nurses and social workers at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, B.C., who are taking care of my dad and trying to get him better. They have also been taking care of my mom. They are on the phone with us every hour to see if we need help or if we need anything. RIH has the best nurses, doctors, and social workers on the planet. I would also like to send a huge thank you out to all our wonderful friends who have also been by our side and sent us all the prayers and best wishes. Thank you to each and every one of you! We love you all!

Kimberly Jasper, Lower Nicola, B.C.

Herald Junior Reporters

Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Civic Centre

From the Herald archives: November, 1989

HOUSING HELP

MSS

As Remembrance Day holds a prestigious place in the hearts of

many Canadians, the city of Merritt never fails to hold a memorable ceremony to commemorate the sacrifices of those who stood to protect Canada.

This year, residents of Merritt gathered at the Civic Centre for the annual Remembrance Day ceremony. To start off, everyone joined voices to recite the national anthem, leading into a prayer of gratitude. Next, the words of the infamous poem, ‘In Flanders Fields,’ paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during World War I. Then everyone came together for a moment of silence. The

biting cold and chilly wind was treacherous, but the two minutes of silence allowed for a moment to reflect on, and truly appreciate the country that was built through the resilience of Canadian soldiers. Lastly, wreaths were laid before the cenotaph as a gesture of true gratitude. The

ceremony was brought to an end through a singing tribute, as the colour party laid their poppies upon the wreaths and marched off with the flags held high within their hands. The day of remembrance was then concluded with a lunch at the

Royal Legion. Although the bitter weather felt difficult to stand through last Friday, the opportunity to honour the lives of those who served for Canada, was humbling, and profoundly eyeopening.

A five unit housing development will be built by the Lower Nicola Indian Band with federal government assistance. The announcement was made last week by the Honourable Alan Redway, Minister of State (Housing). The capital cost of the project is $367,500. A portion of the total cost, $273,400 will be met with a 15-year loan from a private lender. The loan is insured by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

LETTERS POLICY

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

GURSIMAR NAGRA

Wreaths surround the cenotaph. Photo/Tina Etchart

Restorative Justice Week 2022

Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Looking to take a more healing based approach to the justice system, the Nicola Valley Community Justice Services Society (NVCJSS) provides the resources and support required to move through some of life’s more difficult moments. Being the victim of a crime is never an easy thing, and the NVCJSS looks to ease the hurt and bring accountability to the forefront.

Restorative Justice Week has been recognized in Canada since 1996, when it was declared that every third week of November would raise awareness of a new type of justice. Restorative justice,

opposed to the criminal justice system, is victim centered, highlights collaboration and healing, and puts power into the hands of the person affected by the crime. The Herald sat down with representatives of the NVCJSS and the Merritt RCMP’s Victim Services Unit to discuss the merits of restorative justice and its relevance in the Nicola Valley.

“The Restorative Justice Program provides individuals and families in the Nicola Valley with the opportunity to develop and participate in restorative justice processes when dealing with criminal matters,” said Christopher Stokes, restorative justice coordinator with NVCJSS.

“That

Continues on Page 9

a HARM REDUCTION IN COMMUITY event on Thursday, Oct. 20 & Friday, Oct. 21. The event consisted of per formances by George Leach and Michelle Thrush, we had guest speakers, and as a cultural highlight we had a drum group and local pow wow dancers share their talents. Door prizes and a variety of information booths on health and wellness were available. Attendance at this event was 230+ community members

We would like to thank the following businesses for their generous donations and for helping to make this event a great success:

• Work N Play

• Canadian Tire

• Home Hardware Building Centre

• City Furniture

• Nlaka’pamux Health Ser vices Society

• Scw’exmx Child & Family Ser vices Society

• TECK Highland Valley Copper Mine

• Trans Mountain

• First Nations Health Authority

• Stoyoma Dental Clinic

• Black’s Pharmacy

• Johnny on the Rez

• Breathe Bikes

• Ask Wellness

• Social Lounge

• Boston Pizza

• Miss Vicki’s Pedals & Plants Flower Shop

• BC First Nations Justice Council.

We would also like to thank the following organizations who took the time by setting up information booths:

• Conayt Friendship Society

• Ask Wellness

• Nlaka’pamux Health Ser vices Society

• RCMP/Victim Ser vices/Community Policing

• Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly

• Work BC

• Nicola Valley Community Justice Society

• Scw’exmx Child and Family Ser vices Society

• AXIS Family Resources

• Nicola Family Therapy

• First Nation Health Authority

• Mobile Response Team

• Lower Nicola Indian Band

• Interior Health

• Indigenous Justice Centre

• Nicola Valley Shelter & Support Society

• NV Hospital Mental Health

• Journey’s Into Tomorrow Transition House

If we have forgotten anyone, we apologize.

The Nicola Valley Community Justice Services Society has been providing justice and advocacy services to those in the Nicola Valley since 2003. Photo/NVCJSS

Marius

involves working with the victim, offender, and community members in resolving crime in a more proactive and moral way. It offers rehabilitation and healing over more punitive measures, like what a court might do.”

Both offenders and victims of crime in the Nicola Valley can be referred to both the NVCJSS and Victims Services at the local detachment by RCMP officers involved, Crown Council, and community referral. The two organizations often work hand in hand, offering support and resources throughout the entire justice

process. The two often collaborate on healing circles, where victims and perpetrators meet with support staff to discuss the impacts of the crime and circumstances around it. The NVCJSS also offers low risk probation supervision for Indigenous offenders, who their services are mainly targeted towards. Indigenous cultural knowledge and practices inform restorative justice processes.

The NVCJSS also has its Advocacy Centre component, which provides access to resources such as legal aid, offers family mediation and legal services, and provides support for those

going through the Indigenous Court process.

The Nicola Valley Indigenous Court is a sentencing court where local Elders sit together with a Judge to provide a holistic and restorative perspective, as well as build a healing plan. The RCMP’s Victim Services unit is often involved in these plans.

“We work with the victims of crime. In partnership with the Restorative Justice Society, we have been asked to come in for healing circles to be the victim’s voice, when sometimes it’s not possible for the victim to be there,” said a representative of the Merritt RCMP’s

Victim Services Unit.

“At Victim’s Services, we provide information, support, and referral services to victims of crime. The information pieces can be anything regarding the criminal justice system. We can also provide information on domestic violence, and anything to do with the crimes themselves.”

The NVCJSS and Victim Services both provide support to an array of individuals and families, using their connections and resources to guide those impacted by crime. Stokes added that seeing clients’ needs met and watching true healing and

accountability in action is a rewarding part of his job, while the Victim Services representative added that facilitating connections and support for those impacted by crime brings satisfaction.

“In terms of support, we’re not counselors, but we’re here to listen. We can have conversations with folks and just be a safe place for them. With the referral piece, we

can always refer to other organizations in the community for additional support,” added the Victim’s Services representative. For more information on the Nicola Valley Community Justice Services Society, visit www. nvcjss.com. The Merritt RCMP’s Victim Services unit can be reached at 250378-5699.

ZO NIN G BYL AW:

That the O f ficial Zoning Map, being S chedule “A” of the Cit y of Merrit t Zoning Bylaw No 228 4, 2020, is amended by changing the zoning designation of the parcel legally described as Lot A Plan K AP3199 0 Distric t Lot 122 KDYD E xcept Plan 323 4 0 & E

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

POLICE FILES

Shootings in Merritt

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A number of shootings took place in the Nicola Valley in the early morning of November 15, 2022, with Merritt RCMP responding to numerous calls in the Merritt, Coldwater IR, and Mamette Lake Road areas.

Residents may notice increased police presence as an investigation is underway into what is believed to be a number of targeted shootings in the Nicola Valley Tuesday morning.

“On November 15, 2022, between 5:00am and 6:30am the Merritt RCMP were alerted to multiple shootings that occurred in the Merritt, Coldwater IR and Mamette Lake Road areas. All events are believed to be targeted,” said Sgt. Josh Roda with the Merritt RCMP.

“We are actively investigating what happened. We do not believe there is any further risk to the public and will have a significant police presence in these areas as we move forward with the

investigations.”

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz confirmed to the Herald that over 100 shots were fired during the incidents this morning. The RCMP confirmed to him that the shooting resulted in no injuries or deaths.

“It’s unfortunate that this kind of thing comes to our City, but I’m very confident in the RCMP’s handling of it, and their ability to keep us informed,” said Goetz.

“As soon as the City knows, everyone else will know as well.”

The Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) advised all its residents to stay inside and lock their doors in a press release, later canceling the advisory and updating it to include a statement by the RCMP and citing no risk to the community.

More information will be made available as it is released. Anyone with information about these shootings is asked to call the Merritt RCMP detachment at 250-378-4262.

The Merritt RCMP are investigating after responding to reports of multiple shootings across the Nicola Valley early on November 15, 2022. Marius Auer/Herald

Unmet Needs Survey now available

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

One year after the devastating flooding event that caused mil lions in damage and displaced all Merritt residents, the Unmet Needs Committee is reaching out to those still affected by the flood to assess the needs of the community. The committee is made up of local stakehold ers, including government agencies, commu nity groups, and non-government organizations, and looks to iden tify the resources needed by Merrittonians as they continue to recover.

The Unmet Needs Survey is now available online through Google Forms, and will likely be available until the end of January.

Participants in the survey are asked a number of ques tions assessing their level of need in categories such

as contract work, yard work, and mental health sup port. Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian humanitarian aid organization and Unmet Needs Committee mem ber, is following up on survey responses.

“The goal of the survey overall is to get a better understanding of the various needs in the com munity as it con tinues to recover after the floods,” said Meghan Blackmore, recov ery specialist with Samaritan’s Purse.

“On the survey we have a few dif ferent things, like contract work, mental health, yard work, things like that. We’re hoping to get this information now during the winter so we’re prepared for the spring. We just want to know what to ask contractors and different teams for when the spring comes.”

With the find ings of the sur vey, the Unmet Needs Committee looks to iden tify the proper resources needed in Merrittonians’ continued recov ery efforts. A number of Merritt residents remain displaced follow ing the flood ing event on November 15, 2021. Households in the flood inun dation zone con tinue to contend with mud, silt, and the financial burden of recov ery more than one year post flood.

The survey is open to both renters and home owners that were impacted by the flooding event, with recovery efforts not being limited to dam age of property. Mental health support is a main component of flood recovery.

“We can then present the needs to the committee, and then either somebody within the committee will be able to fulfill

that need, or we will have discus sions as to who else we need to invite to the table to fill that need,” added Blackmore.

“The goal of the Unmet Needs Committee is to be an open com mittee where people can bring forward any issues or problems that they are experi encing in their recovery. If there’s a roadblock or a hurdle that they can’t seem to fig ure out, or need a second eye on, they can present it to the committee, and they present it to a number of different organiza tions.”

Blackmore noted that survey respondents thus far have highlight ed a need for con tract work, includ ing yard work, as many properties remain covered in mud and silt brought up from the river.

For more infor mation, or to com plete the survey, visit https://bit. ly/3GiKcnH.

A Growing Community

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Despite the dropping temperatures and fresh snow, some forward thinking Merrittonians have come together to support the growth of the community in a quite literal way. Members of the

Nicola Valley Community Garden Society recently announced their new seed exchange program, including the installation of a brightly coloured seed exchange box at the Nicola Valley Community Garden on Reid Avenue.

The Unmet Needs Committee, composed of local government and other stakeholders, is reaching out to Merrittonians 1 year post-flood to assess their needs. Photo/City of Merritt

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Merrittonian wins award for youth support work

of the things that I’ve done have been in tribute to my hometown.”

use,” Amelia Birch explained.

After suffering from addiction and being taken away from her family, Cherokee Bent turned a new leaf, dedicat ing her time and energy to help others that were in similar situations as her. This dedi cation had earned her the Award for Innovation for Mental Health and Addictions Care.

Originally from Lower Nicola Indian Band, Bent is now a stu dent at Capilano University, and is an On-call Youth Consultant for Vancouver Coastal Health.

“I do a lot of panels at the men’s detox cen tre in Vancouver as well as youth treatment cen tres,” she said.

“We go to rural communities like Williams Lake, and I share my experience there.”

On October 26, Bent received a call, informing her that she had won the Council of the Federation (COF) Award for Innovation in Mental Health

and Addictions Care. The award recognizes her work to break down stigma and support young people dealing with addiction challenges.

“It’s a huge honour and a big responsibility,” she said. “In honour ing my people and my ancestors, I want to be able to walk alongside our people and give back, so they can be given opportu nities too.”

Bent had a traumatic past, one which had led her to this recent success she has garnered, as well as the current path she is on.

“I struggled with alcohol ism when I was really young,” she explained. “I struggled a lot with drinking, I got kicked out of school, and I had a lot of suicide attempts when I was really young.”

Bent said that her case “slipped through the cracks,” without anyone looking into what was going on at home.

“They just

assumed that I was a frequent flyer, that I was just doing this for attention,” she explained. “I had a lethal overdose one night and they took me to Vancouver, ready to do surgery on me.”

It was there in Vancouver when one of the nurses at her aid took notice of the trend with Bent’s case which began the turn in her life.

“I finally got the proper help that I always needed,” she said.

“I was always will ing to get help.

I was practically begging for it but in smaller commu nities there aren’t a lot of resources, especially back then.”

Bent went into foster care soon after, where she said the improved environment helped with her recovery. She went back to school in North Vancouver and has lived there ever since.

“I was given a real chance to be a good kid and to be a part of soci ety,” she said.

“I think about Merritt a lot. A lot

Collaborating with Vancouver Coastal Health, Bent has designed and delivered cur riculum to edu cate health-care workers about the importance of providing cultur ally safe care for young people who use substances and how to improve care for Indigenous youth from rural and remote communi ties.

She worked on a film titled ‘Hidden Pain’, as part of the Regional Addictions Program’s, Substance Use Simulations Series.

“We didn’t know of any type of simulations that focused on youth or substance

Working as a clinical nurse educator for the Regional Addiction Program, Birch came across Bent and saw her back ground as a fit for what the simula tions was looking for.

“We were try ing to look for someone with lived experience both in the medi cal system and with substance use in their life,” she explained. “Cherokee was one of the people who really helped from the very beginning of the process by co-writing the script, creating the story, acting in the video, and co facilitate screen ings of the video to healthcare pro viders.”

After recogniz ing her passion and continued efforts to advocate for youth support,

Vancouver Coastal Health nominated Bent for the COF award.

“We are extremely pleased by Cherokee’s significant contri

Wa s yo ur sm all bu sine ss or no t-fo r- pr of it or ga niz at io n dir ec tl y impa cted by th e 20 21 BC flo odin g an d ex tr eme we ather even t?

If ye s , ple as e co nt ac t th e Ca nadian Re d Cr os s. Yo u may be eligib le fo r $5 ,0 00 of fina ncia l as si st an ce.

Apply at redcross.ca/bcfloods/smallbusiness Call for info 1- 833 -966 -4225

Deadline ex tended, apply by Novemb er 30, 2022

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Miranda Compton, Minister Shiela Malcolmson, Cherokee Bent, and Ruth Alfred at the award giving ceremony. Photo/Cherokee Bent

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

From Page 16

bution to promot ing Indigenous cultural safety in substance-use care and that she has received recogni tion through this award,” Birch noted. “Her part nership with our program in the development of the substance-use simulation educa

tion series and her willingness to share her lived experience with health-care pro viders, will posi tively impact the care Indigenous youth and adults will receive for generations to come. We are deeply grateful and appreciative for her knowledge, empathy and guidance as we

strive to listen and learn new ways of delivering care to Indigenous com munity members.”

“Determined young people are making a differ ence in commu nity,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

“Cherokee is a young leader doing remarkable

work reducing stigma and getting more culturally safe supports for Indigenous youth. We are grateful for her work.”

Bent received the award, along with a $5,000 prize, to advance her work and continue to foster innovation in the sector.

“I feel and believe that it is

important to be a voice that breaks silence,” said Bent. “I was there once. I remember how it feels to be alienat ed, to feel like, no matter how much you want help, it’s just not available.I am grateful that I have been given the opportunity to make a difference in our commu nity.”

Behind the scenes of ‘Hidden Pain’. Photo/Cherokee Bent

Cents’ busy weekend against the Spruce Kings and Vipers

seconds of each other to take the lead. With 58 seconds left in the game, John Herrington scored a Spruce Kings goal to make the game 3-2, but the final buzzer sounded with the Cents in the lead. The Cents were 0-7 against the Spruce Kings last season.

period at the 3:59 mark, before the 6:32 goal by Coleman Jenkins to tie the game once again. At the 13:54 mark, the Spruce Kings scored a goal to gain the lead, before Kilian McGregor-Bennett cement ed their lead with another goal with 52 seconds left in the game.

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt Centennials had a mildly successful weekend of regular season hock ey this week, capturing a total of 3 points of a possible 6 across three games. The Cents took on the Prince George Spruce Kings for two nights in a row on home ice, before hitting the road and taking on the Vernon Vipers at Kal Tire Place.

The Cents beat out the Spruce Kings

on their first night of action, winning 3-2 in a hard fought victory. Merritt opened up the scoring 9 minutes into the first period, with right winger Ryan Spinale, assisted by Aleksey Chichkin and Coleman Jenkins, sneaking one past Spruce Kings goalie Jordan Fairlie. The Spruce Kings responded with a goal by John Herrington 9:42 into the second period, tying the game up. Minutes later, on a power play caused by a Spruce Kings boarding pen alty, the Cents scored two goals within

In the second night of hometown hockey at the NVMA, the Cents lost 7-5 to the Spruce Kings. The Cents played a strong game, but ultimately lost control in the third period. The Cents opened up scoring once again, with Left Defenseman Erik Sollied assisted by Mark Thurston scoring a goal just 22 seconds into the game. The Spruce Kings responded five minutes later with a goal by Luke Eurig. At the 7:56 mark, Walker Erickson put the Cents briefly back in the lead, before a game-tying goal by Jake Schneider of the Spruce Kings before the period’s end. The second period was just as back and forth, with Walker Erickson opening up scoring before the Spruce Kings answered back with two of their own. After an interfer ence penalty against Prince George, the Cents’ Jaxson Murray, assisted by Tristan Allen and Jackson Krill, tied the game up 4-4 during a power play. Kai Greaves for the Spruce Kings opened up the third

The Cents hit the road on Saturday, November 12 to take on the Vernon Vipers at Kal Tire Place. The Centennials played another strong game, taking home a point in an overtime loss to the Vipers. The first period was scoreless, while the second period saw a goal by Jaxson Murray of the Cents, who was assisted by Jackson Krill at the 13:54 mark. Four min utes into the third period, Thomas Tien tied the game up for the Vernon Vipers, sending the teams to overtime. After a hooking penalty against the Centennials’ Left Wing Damon Jugnauth, the Vipers scored a power play goal to win the game 2-1.

The Centennials take on the Cranbrook Bucks at Western Financial Place on Friday, November 18, before heading to Trail on Saturday to play the Smoke Eaters. For more information, visit www.merrittcentennials.com.

John Stuart leads Team Canada to the World Cup

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merritt local John Stuart headed out to New Zealand on Tuesday, November 15, as he leads the Men’s National Softball Team to the World Cup.

Stuart, who is the head coach of Team Canada, successfully led the team during their run at the Pan-American Games last April. The squad secured their place at the World Cup by finishing second in Argentina.

“It’s the biggest tournament in the world for softball,” Stuart described the World Cup. “It’s held only once every two years, and it hasn’t been held since 2019, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Falling short in the Pan-American Games’ championship round, Stuart will have the pleasure of running it back with his team plus four new players added to the roster.

“We haven’t gotten the chance to play together yet, so going to New Zeland early and playing at the pre-tournament will be big for us,” he explained.

The World Cup will be held in Auckland, New Zealand, from November 26 to December 4. There will be 12 teams, from all over the world vying for the opportunity to hoist the trophy at the end of the tournament.

“Argentina is the reigning World Champion as well as the reigning Pan-

American Champions so it’s going to take our best game to beat them if we cross paths,” Stuart said. “There are also other tough matchups such as New Zealand, Australia, U.S.A, Japan, and Mexico.

Team Canada will fly out 10 days before the beginning of the tournament, to train and play in pre-tournament matches. Stuart looks to use this time to get the team in high gear ahead of their first match on November 26, against Venezuela.

“I’m pretty confident with our team,” he said. “Our hope there is to get into the gold medal game and come home as World Champions.”

To get updates on results of Team

Canada games, please follow Softball Canada’s official Facebook page. All the games from the tournament can also be streamed for $9.99 through https://game time.sport/events/offers/.

Team Canada Men’s Softball Head Coach John Stuart. Photo/John Stuart

The Merritt Centennials take on the visiting Prince George Spruce Kings in their first game of the week. Marius Auer/Herald

Panthers show out in their return to fall sports

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

This past spring, the return to high school sports gave Merritt Secondary School (MSS) Panthers the opportunity to showcase their athletic prowess by excelling in different sports such as track and field, rugby, golf, and ultimate fris bee.

This school year, the same effect of returning to sports is taking place, and , once again, the Panthers are establishing themselves as an elite sports school.

“I think that they did very well this season,” said Shelly Moorhead, MSS Athletics Assistant. “I think without fall sports last year, they’ve really made up for it by coming out full charge.”

This fall season, MSS is being well represented in the fields of cross country, swimming and volleyball, with players

Similarly, another promising young swimmer by the name of Kaiden Ricci also forfeited his spot at the Provincial Tournament, in this case, due to illness.

The Grade 8 was set to compete in Richmond B.C. this coming week end for the Provincial Championship Tournament. He earned the spot after competing in the Regional Tournament in Revelstoke on October 23. Unfortunately, Ricci fell ill, making him unavailable to compete.

“He competes in an open category which means he doesn’t just compete against his own grade,” said Coach Kira Glasgow. “I think it’s really great to see a Grade 8 athlete competing at this level already, knowing that he has all the way till his Grade 12 year to work on his skills some more.”

Glasgow noted how impressed she was by Ricci, being only in his first season of high school swimming, was able to qualify for the 50 metre freestyle

category.

“It was a different environment than summer swimming, which is what he is used to,” she explained. “This was more of a high adrenaline meet, which he did well overall in.”

From great individual performances to exceptional team efforts, the Jr. Boys Volleyball team are making some noise, qualifying for the upcoming Okanagan Championships this Friday in Summerland.

Winning in their wildcard game against South Kamloops Secondary, last week, The Jr. Boys Volleyball team punched their ticket to the tournament they aimed to make at the beginning of the season.

“We had all the boys set individual and team goals at the start of the season,” Coach Zachary Villanueva explained. “Going to Okanagans was our team goal and they’ve all worked so hard to reach it. They’ve performed way higher than our expectations, willing to learn and get better as a team and it’s shown. I’ve never seen a group of Grade 8 boys with bigger heart. Volleyball is definitely on the rise in Merritt!”

Lastly, we have the Sr. Girls Volleyball team. At the beginning of the school year there is a notable buzz around this club because of MSS winning the bid to host the Sr. Girls Volleyball Provincials Tournament.

came through,” said

and teams making it to the Okanagan Championships and beyond.

Cross country athlete, Isaac Asselstine qualified for the Provincial Championship Tournament by placing in the top eight during the Okanagan tournament.

“I thought he had a pretty good run during the Okanagans,” said Coach Randy Sheldon. “He stayed consistent. He didn’t lose any spots, but it was a very tough competition for him, so it was hard to place any higher than he did.”

The Grade 11 went to the Nordic Ski Club in West Kelowna with nine other Panthers. There, he competed in the Sr. Division, racing roughly a 6 km distance.

“He had pretty consistent perfor mances throughout the year,” Sheldon noted. “He’s always pushing himself, always in the top three or four boys each race we had throughout the year.”

Asselstine earned his spot at the Provincial Tournament in Victoria on November 4, but unfortunately forfeited this due to extraneous reasons.

“That first big snowfall that hit every body shut highways down,” Sheldon explained. “Isaac was set to travel with the West Zone Commissioner but unfor tunately they weren’t able to travel.”

Now that the rubber has met the road, it has been made clear that the squad is very competitive, beat ing Westsyde Secondary in a series of five matches to become West Zone Champions.

“I think they started out very slow but they sure

definitely showed their resiliency and dedication by winning the next three matches in the series.”

Winning their West Zone games the Panthers are now ranked fourth going into the Okanagan Championships this Friday.

“We’re very much looking forward to proving ourselves, ” Finch noted. “We want to play a lot of volleyball so when it comes time for the Provincials, we don’t want to be known as the team that got to there just because we were host ing, we want to earn it.”

The team will be playing in the Okanagan Championships this Friday, in Vernon, with their first game against Princess Margaret Secondary School. After the tournament they will pre pare to defend home court in the AA Provincial Championships beginning December 1.

Sr. Girls Volleyball team Head Coach Dave Finch. “They

Panthers Jr. Boys Volleyball team. Photo/MSS

Isaac Asselstine. Photo/MSS

Kaiden Ricci. Photo/Daniella Ricci

Panthers Sr. Girls Volleyball team. Izaiah Reyes/ Herald

COMMUNITY

The

Merritt Country Christmas Week, the iconic commu nity-wide week of holiday festivities, is back and better than ever after a two year hiatus. Organizers are thrilled to bring back the week of community events and bring joyful tidings after years of pandemic rules and flooding relat ed cancellations.

The weeklong event, filled with festivities for the whole fam ily, will kick off

once again on November 21, running through to November 27. On Monday, Merrittonians will gather to watch the community Christmas tree be lit up in Spirit Square. Attendees are asked to bring gloves, socks, and toques to be pinned to the tree. These will later be donated to the cold weather shelter. Along with the tree lightup ceremony, Merrittonians will once again be

able to experience the Santa Light Up Parade, Civic Centre craft fair, and a plethora of new and returning events.

“We are abso lutely thrilled, fingers crossed that we don’t have a monkey wrench thrown into it this year,” said Carrie Ware, president of the Country Christmas Week Committee.

“Not having to deal with the COVID rules has been fantastic. I would say that 50 percent of the work in 2021 was trying to figure out how to hold

a craft fair and how to hold any thing else with the restrictions.”

In addition to the events planned by the Committee itself, a number of activities under the Country Christmas banner have been planned through collabora tion with other local organiza tions. Wednesday will see a dance recital by local troupes with Love To Dance Academy, along with a Country Christmas Concert featuring local talent the fol lowing day. The Canadian Country

Music Hall of Honour will host a live music night at their Quilchena Avenue building on Saturday. The week is wrapped up with the Grads of 2023 and Knights of Columbus break fast with Santa fundraiser at the Merritt Civic Centre, which will raise funds to support this year’s graduating class.

“The collabo ration has always been fantastic, and this year we’re collaborating with the grads and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour,” noted Ware.

“We’re back to normal, and just hoping that Mother Nature doesn’t give us five feet of snow on the day of.”

The route for Friday’s light up parade has changed from years past, high lighting safety and ease of access for parade par ticipants. While the new route can be viewed in past editions of the Herald or on the Committee’s Facebook page, it keeps much the same. Ware

told the Herald that the parade will always flow through down town Merritt’s main stretch of Quilchena Avenue. Applications to have a float in the parade are due by November 21, and are available at Carrie Ware and Company on Quilchena Avenue. Overnight submissions that make it in before the beginning of the business day

November 22 will also be considered.

including times and locations of events, visit www. facebook.com/ countrychristmas.

Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WEL COME YOU

Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre) Sunday ser vice 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

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

Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.

Sacred Hear t 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 ever y 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

250-378-5104 2151 Coutlee Ave., coppervalley@uniserve .com IS YOUR FURNACE READY FOR WINTER BE SURE TO KEEP THE FAMILY WARM & SAFE THIS WINTER Don’t get caught off guard by a broken heater when you need it most. Give your furnace a tune-up before the cold hits.

Marius Auer

A20 THURSDAY, November 17, 2022 www.merrittherald.com ■ A p p r o v e d m i n i s t o r a g e ■ O n s i t e r e n t a ■ S e c u r e d ■ S a l e o f N e w & U s e d s t o r a g e c o n t a i n e r s

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

Myrtle Prescott

April 26, 1941 November 3, 2022

Myrtle Prescott passed to her rest at home in the Lower Nicola Valley on November 3, 2022 at the age of 81. Myrtle’s battle with Parkinson’s disease was a long hard journey, especially the past two years. She is at peace now awaiting the coming of Jesus. “And God shall wipe all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away ” (Revelation 21:4)

Lovingly remembered as “a Saint” by her husband Denis who will miss her greatly Myrtle was loved and cherished by her children, grandchildren/ great grandchildren. She was known to her grandchildren as “Grandma Myrt.” With tenderness she faithfully prayed for each one. Children: Vaughny Toijanen (Marco) Lillooet Rick Yuros (Caren) Nelson, Trevor Yuros (recently deceased) Kelowna, Irene Colcord, Kelowna, Step-son Denis Jr Prescott (Lou) Vancouver Grandchildren: Marko Jr Toijanen (Amanda), Bradley Toijanen, Rebecca Noonan (Pat) Letaya Yuros, Austin Yuros, Silver Colcord (Iwona), Darian Colcord Great Grandchildren: Maia, Jacob, Kai, Beau, Aari, Samantha, Keenan, Phoenix.

Predeceased by parents Elsie and Floyd Powell, brother Gilbert Powell, son Trevor Yuros

Survived by sister Laurel Powell, brother Orlo Powell (Diana) as well as many nephews, nieces, friends and relatives.

Myrtle Prescott, Celebration of Life Friday, November 18, 2022 1:00 pm at the Merritt Seventh-day Adventist Church, 2190 Granite Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, please send your gift to ADRA Canada, adra.ca Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com

publisher@merrittherald.com

September 3, 1960 November 14, 2022

Mr Charanjit “Lalli” Randhawa passed away on November 14, 2022. He will be lovingly remembered by his dear wife, Jasbir Randhawa, and his children Selena and Karun Randhawa

Charanjit or lovingly known as Lalli, moved to Merritt in the summer of 1980 from Jalal Usmaan, Punjab, India A devoted father, husband, brother, uncle and friend, Lalli approached every challenge with a smile It was this dedication that allowed him to work his way up from a clean up employee at Ardew Wood Products to a successful business owner in the community Lalli had a big presence in every room with his infectious laugh and kind heart he left an impact on every person he met, making them feel like they mattered.

Until his last moment, Lalli was a true warrior, putting up the fight of his life with a big smile on his face He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 20th at 11am at the Merritt Civic Centre, followed by a ceremony and lunch at the Merritt Sikh Temple

Madeleine Beaton

September 30, 1949 November 10, 2022

Madeleine Angele Beaton (née Desy) of New Westminster, BC, passed away on Nov 10th, 2022.

Madeleine was born on September 30, 1949 to Ralph & Denise Desy in Hudsons Bay, Saskatchewan.

She was predeceased by her Father & Mother; Ralph & Denise Desy Sister Lorraine Desy, Sister Pat Lyren and Brother Claude Desy

Madeleine will be sadly missed and survived by her beloved Husband of over 40 years, Bill Beaton, and Son Gary Davis & his wife Hensyl Services will be held at in New Westminster, on a date yet to be determined.

Aldee Charette

February 11, 1944 November 10, 2022

Aldee Charette, Age 78, passed away on November 10, 2022 in Merritt, BC Leaving behind his loving partner Gilberte, Step-son Danny (Brenda), Step-daughter Sonya (Dave) and his Grandchildren Carter and Carson. Aldee will be missed by all who knew him The family would like to thank the staff at Nicola Meadows for their kindness and caring.

Share your event with the community KamloopsThisWeek.com /events merrittherald.com

Computer

Until Filled

Temporar y Education Assistant 3349961 Open Until Filled

Merritt Secondar y School

Fir st Nations Suppor t Worker 3259682 Ongoing

Strong Star t Coordinator 3256009 Open Until filled

Relief Education Assistant 3259613 Ongoing

Af ter School Program Assistant 3353582 Open Until Filled

Relief Clerk Typist 3256003 Ongoing

Relief Custodian 3259601 Ongoing

Relief Bus Driver 3255978 Ongoing

Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at https://www makeafuture ca/bc schools and districts/nicola similkameen school district no 58/.

All applicants must provide a cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references for each position they want to be considered .

Only those applicants selected for an inter view will be contacted

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

UNCERTIFIED TEACHER TEACHING ON CALL MERRITT

JOB POSTING NO: 3362947

School District No 58 (Nicola Similkameen) ser ves the two communities of Merritt and Princeton, six First Nations Bands, the Métis community, and the Conayt Friendship Society In our district, we recognize that we learn, teach and work on the ancestral, traditional and unceded territories of the Nle?eKepmx and Syilx people, and we acknowledge our Métis communities and their contributions to the Aboriginal ways of being, knowing and doing The mountains, lakes and valleys within the district make it a natural setting for fabulous, year round outdoor activities We offer a warm small town atmosphere where relationships are fundamental to our success Merritt, where the office is located, is in the Nicola Valley and is the hub of a highway system that links Kamloops, Kelowna, and the Lower Mainland Ranching, forestr y, health, local government, and tourism are the major industries in the valley

Our Strategic Plan has a Success for ALL Learners focus, supported by a dedicated staff, engaged stakeholders and partners who share a genuine commitment to the district The district offers rich programming to just over 2075 students, 48% of whom are Indigenous We are proud of our ongoing work towards Truth and Reconciliation

School District No 58 (Nicola Similkameen) is accepting applications for UNCERTIFIFED Teachers Teaching on Call. The district is seeking highly skilled and dynamic individuals to join our list of Casual Uncertified Teachers Teaching on Call Preference will be given to individuals with a demonstrated work histor y or volunteer experience working with children and youth

Required qualifications and training include:

• Bachelor’s degree or other post secondar y education Recent successful teaching experience and/or training preferred Effective interpersonal and communication skills

• Demonstrated interest in working with children and youth

Obser vation of the Human Rights Code of Canada and being Culturally Aware to all is a requirement for this position

Interested applicants should go to our district website at www sd58 bc ca which provides guidance on how to apply for teaching jobs in our district Applications must include: Cover letter, resume, copies of post secondar y transcripts and names of two super visor references (including most recent super visor) Only short listed applicants will be contacted

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the volume of applications received, the district is unable to provide commentar y or feedback regarding an applicant’s qualifications/ application, nor are we able to provide career advice/consultation Applications will be reviewed, and hiring will occur on an ongoing basis

For further information regarding this position, contact the Assistant Superintendent, Ms Jane Kempston at 250 378 5161 or email: jkempston@365.sd58.bc.ca

seeking a

Saini’s Dental Clinic