November 24 - 2022

Highlights from the increased police activity in Merritt

to canvas the area for witnesses and resi dential video.”

A week of increased police activity has taken over Merritt, beginning November 15. Here is what we know so far:

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

“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.

Friday, November 18: The RCMP confirmed in a press release that officers attended a scene on the morning of November 18, 2022 for a possible shotsfired complaint in the 2100 block of Priest Avenue.

The shooting is believed to have been targeted. It’s believed that a mid 90’s gray Dodge truck with a maroon box was sto len solely for the purpose of the shooting around 5:30 a.m., then it was dumped and burned near the Highway 5 and Highway 5A on-ramp at an area known as the Goedy Creek pit. The truck was seen leav ing the site of the shooting at a high rate of speed.

“We strongly believe that this incident is associated with the ongoing investiga tion into the shooting that occurred earlier this week,” said Merritt RCMP Acting Commander, Sgt. Josh Roda.

“Fortunately there have been no reports of injuries from the shooting, and investi gators are continuing their tireless efforts to identify and apprehend the suspects in these brazen events. Investigators continue

Shortly after 1:00 PM, Merritt RCMP frontline officers were alerted to the sounds of a gun shot in the 1300 block of Priest Avenue. When officers arrived in the area, a dark coloured sedan was seen speeding away. The sedan was located parked near a residence in the 1700 block of Nicola Avenue in Merritt, which was promptly shut down by the RCMP and City of Merritt.

The South East District Emergency Response Team (SED ERT) were dis patched to assist in arresting the suspects. Officers were on scene for hours, including the use of an RCMP aircraft. The suspects attempted to flee from police, but were ultimately tracked down and arrested. The victim of the kidnapping was located, uninjured, by police.

“There has been a brazen disregard for public safety recently in our community, and having these individuals off our streets will hopefully restore a sense of security back to the community,” said Sgt. Josh Roda of the Merritt RCMP.

“We want to thank the public for their patience as we worked diligently to miti gate any further risk.”

Braeden Shane Drake, Mark Ethan Giesbrecht, and William Joseph Lavoie have been charged by indictment for hos tage taking with a firearm, and entering a dwelling house without lawful excuse to commit an indictable offence, in connec tion with Friday’s hostage situation. All are currently being held in custody, and it is unclear whether the suspects are related to the shootings earlier in the week.

The Merritt RCMP continue to investigate two shootings in the Nicola Valley, one having taken place on Tuesday throughout the valley, and another on Friday morning on Priest Avenue. No deaths or injuries have been reported as a result of the shootings.

Saturday, November 19: Sgt. Josh Roda, Merritt’s acting detachment com mander, confirmed to the Herald that police responded to a shots fired call on Saturday (November 19), where the sus pected shots were quickly determined to be fireworks.

Sunday, November 20: On Sunday, November 20, Merritt RCMP and mem bers of the Emergency Response Team

(ERT) executed a search warrant in the 2600 block of Granite Avenue in relation to Friday’s kidnapping case.

A heavy police presence could be seen, which saw officers draw their guns and employ the tactical use of flash bangs and loudspeakers. No further arrests were made. The Merritt RCMP continue to investigate a number of ongoing cases.

Monday, November 21: The Merritt RCMP officers and emergency response teams have closed down the 2100 block of Quilchena Avenue. The opera tion was part of an ongoing investigation into the shootings and kidnapping situ ation that took place last week, Merritt RCMP confirmed.

“We are still investigating what has been going on this past week and this was just a part of that,” said Acting Detachment Commander Sgt Josh Roda.

Wednesday, November 23: The Merritt RCMP have arrested Ronald Karlson, a well known wanted Merritt man who had been on an active B.C. wide warrant for breach ing his release order since November 15.

On November 23, at approximate ly 1:30 a.m., Merritt frontline officers responded to reports of a suspicious person around the areas of Priest Avenue and Voght Street. Attending RCMP members witnessed a man kick in the back door of a nearby residence and rush inside. The home’s occupants were evacuated by police, who called the South East District Emergency Response Team (SED ERT) to assist. After a lengthy standoff, Karlson surrendered to police.

“We want to thank the public for all the information they pro vided during our search for Mr. Karlson,” said Acting Detachment Commander Sgt. Josh Roda.

“We are thankful no one was injured and this had a successful conclusion.”

Karlson is being held in custody, awaiting a court appearance later today (November 23). Police are not yet saying how the wanted man could be related to last week’s shoot ings.

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WEATHER

WEATHER

Nov. 24: Partly Cloudy 4°/-3°C

Nov. 25: Cloudy 4°/-2°C

Nov. 26: 70% Snow 3°/-1°C

Nov. 27: Cloudy 2°/-5°C

Nov. 28: 40% Rain -4°/-8°C

Nov. 29: 50% Snow -6°/-10°C

BEHIND

THE SCENES

Love to Dance’s show ‘Elements’ features performances from 63 dancers. With a project that huge, the academy really leans on the help of volunteers to make it possible.

Search ‘VOLUNTEERS’

GIVING THANKS

Thank Your Neighbour Day was held at the Merritt Civic Centre on November 19, commemorating the one year anniversary of the devastat ing flooding in the City of Merritt, and across the southern interior of B.C.

Search ‘NEIGHBOUR’

• The Sylfirm X an outstanding state of the art Micro needling RF system for collagen and elastin induction, acne treatment and skin tightening & lifting.

Merritt Herald

Premier Eby sworn in

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Following in the footsteps of one of B.C’s most popular Premiers, David Eby certainly has some big shoes to fill. Following the resignation of then Premier John Horgan and his acclamation dur ing the BC NDP leadership race, Eby now serves as the province’s 37th Premier.

After a turbulent party leadership race, which saw the disqualifica tion of Eby’s sole challenger for alleg edly violating party campaign rules, Eby was sworn in as Premier on November 18, 2022 at the Musqueam Community Centre in Vancouver. The location is a change from the tradi tional ceremony at Government House in Victoria, and has been called a powerful symbol of reconciliation by local First Nations leaders. After his swearing-in cer emony, Eby deliv ered his first speech as Premier.

“British Columbia is a wonderful place to call home,” said the newly sworn-in Premier Eby.

“At the same time, people are feeling uncertain

about the future and worried about their families. I’m proud of the work done by John Horgan and our government to put people first. And there’s so much more to do. I’m ready to get to work with my team to deliver results that people will be able to see and feel in their lives and in their communities.”

Eby is no strang er to provincial politics, first being appointed attorney general and minis ter responsible for ICBC, gaming and liquor after the BC NDP first formed government in July 2017. In 2020, Eby was appointed as the minister responsible for housing. Eby took over the reins from John Horgan, who served as Premier since 2017. The outgoing Premier described Eby as a “roll-up-yoursleeves guy who will work hard to improve the lives of British Columbians.”

First Nations leadership at Eby’s swearing in cer emony called the change in location an important step, but called for more meaningful action by the province on issues surrounding

reconciliation with Indigenous people.

“Musqueam wants reconciliation to be more than a buzzword. We want action that creates substantial, positive change for Musqueam and all Indigenous people in B.C. We will be looking to Premier Eby to provide the leadership needed to truly imple ment Indigenous rights and create a prosperous future for every British Columbian,” said Musqueam Chief Sparrow (yəχʷyaχʷələq).

Eby said his government is dedi cated to meaning ful reconciliation, highlighting that he is the first Premier to be sworn-in at a First Nation. The new Premier has made a number of announcements during his first few days in office, intro ducing a number of BC Hydro and

affordability credits to assist low- and middle-income earners with the rising cost of living.

The new Premier has also announced a new repeat offenders plan, featuring new repeat vio lent offender coordinated response teams consisting of police officers, 21 dedicated prosecu tors, 21 probation officers, 21 support personnel and nine correctional super visors to tackle ongoing public safety concerns. A new housing plan is also in the works, which will require municipalities to provide the provin cial government with a housing needs report on a regularly scheduled basis.

For more infor mation on newly announced benefits and credits, visit news.gov.bc.ca.

B.C. Premier David Eby was sworn in November 18, 2022. Photo/Herald File

More than just a tree

On Tuesday, November 22, people gathered in Spirit Square to witness the tree lighting ceremony, put on to kick off the Merritt Country Christmas Week.

The event saw adults, children, local government officials, and RCMP officers showing their holiday spirit. Mayor Mike Goetz was tasked with switching on the lights, and a countdown was done leading up to this.

As citizens were cheering on, taking pictures, and recording videos, I sensed a collective feeling of levity. Seeing the tree light up means more than just the marking of the Christmas season for Merritt. To put into context, this was the return of the tree lighting after two years of dealing with floods and COVID-19. Families still came out despite the trend of increased police activity throughout town.

Exactly a week prior, reports of numerous incidents of shootings, and a kidnapping began to plague Merritt, causing ceremony to be canceled this Monday. I immediately saw the feedback of people after hearing the news. They were hoping that something symbolic such as the ceremony could lift the spirit of the city amidst the chaos and uncertainty.

Luckily, the cancellation announcement did not remain for long and was soon changed to a postponement for the following day. I could tell how much of a positive impact it had on people based on the outpouring of comments the video of the lighting had on our Facebook page. This community tree just meant a little more than what it

VIEWPOINT

Alex Sinclair, Grade 3

Herald Junior Reporters

Teen-to-Teen Gift Drive returns to MSS

From the Herald archives: November, 1998

psychology class is organizing the gift drive. We hope MSS surpasses the amount of gifts donated two years ago.”

ADAMS MSS

At MSS the Teen-toTeen Gift Drive is back after COVID-19! Starting last week, students at MSS are being asked to bring a gift to donate to their C block class. For every five gifts your C block class donates, a ticket will be entered into a draw to win a pizza lunch! Every gift donated will be sent to the Nicola Valley & District Food Bank.

“Two years prior MSS donated over 200 gifts to the Food Bank,” said Jennifer Denton, a psychology and senior English teacher at MSS. She went on to say that, “this year my grade 11-12

Unfortunately, this year there is a shortage of gifts for teens, so donating is now more important than ever! MSS understands that it has been a rough couple of years for everyone in the community, so if donating is a possibility for you this year, the high school greatly encourages you to participate! Some possible ideas for gifts include arts and craft supplies, video games, clothes, accessories, make-up, and outdoor gear. Please make sure every item you bring in is NEW. The last day to bring in gifts is Wednesday, November 30.

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Denton at jdenton@365.sd58.bc.ca.

What is Merritt Country Christmas Week?

Country Christmas as an activity started up a little over 20 years ago in an attempt to liven up the downtown core, support local businesses and celebrate the season. The main activities initially were a night parade, a craft fair and extending shopping hours on parade night to midnight (called Midnight Madness). I introduced the idea of involving arts and culture in 2003 by organizing a community concert that featured local talent. Other

activities, such as the light up of the community Christmas Tree (initially organized by Radio NL and the Rotary Club and held at City Hall) and Santa Land (originally set up out in the freezing open air at the corner of Quilchena and Garcia) were organized by volunteers. The event is still all-volunteer driven. The intent was to bring people downtown just to have fun and celebrate the season. One year we even had fireworks set off in the downtown

core. We didn’t do that again! For a couple of years we also had bonfires downtown in the vacant lots so folks could get warmed up while watching the parade. Good times. Insurance would have a conniption if we did that now. Country Christmas has mellowed a little over the course of time. We still have the concerts, the parade and the craft fair. We still gather in Spirit square to light up the City’s Christmas Tree. But, Covid and last year’s flood canceled out the celebrations in 2020 and

2021. Most cultural activities struggled just to survive. Choirs and Community Band barely hung on. But now, we’re back. The Country Christmas Concert (Thursday Nov.24 at 7 pm) features a wide variety of all local talent. Tuesday night at 5:30 p.m. was the tree light up in Spirit Square. Gloves and mittens, socks and toques and scarves to were hung on the tree. These are distributed to the needy. Sing a few carols. Have some hot chocolate. Wednesday, there were two

performances (afternoon and evening) featuring students from the Love to Dance Academy. Friday is the parade (note that there is a new route). The Walk of Stars has an activity in the Country Music Hall of Honour Friday evening. Friday and Saturday is the Craft Fair in the Civic Centre and on Sunday morning the City is hosting a Breakfast with Santa. Yes, times have been tough, but the people of Merritt are tougher! We are resilient. We don’t give up. We need to

celebrate our successes to date and have hope for the future. We need to support each other and bring out the best in each of us. Country Christmas helps.

Music helps. Take the time to smile and say hi and make a positive difference to someone today. Merry Country Christmas, everyone!

NEW AMBULANCE STATION

The plans are ready and the lot is picked for a new B.C. Ambulance Service station in Merritt. Interim unit chief Larry Hintz says the new station beside Nicola Valley General Hospital, will be a welcome change to attendants who currently don’t have living room quarters or enough office space. Merritt’s new ambulance station will also have a three-bay garage, says Hintz.

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.

FRANCHESCA

Teen-to-Teen Gift Drive 2022. Photo/Rae Bassett

Kurt Christopherson Contributed

2019 Merritt Country Christmas Parade. Photo/Merritt Country Christmas Committee

Kris Kringle returns to Country Christmas Week

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Santa Claus has a busy week ahead of him, making his triumphant return to the City of Merritt for Country Christmas Week following two years of cancel lations. The COVID-19 pandemic halted Santa and his reindeer’s voy age to the Nicola Valley in 2020, with the atmo spheric river cancelling his planned 2021 return. This year, Saint Nick is back and ready to spread cheer. The weeklong Country

Christmas event, filled with festivi ties for the whole family, kicked off once again on November 21, and will run through to November 27.

Along with the tree lighting, Civic Centre craft fair, live music, and dance recitals, Santa Claus will be in attendance at a number of events. Starting with Friday’s Santa Light up parade, where the jolly man in the red suit will be the last float, per tradition.

“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.

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

Following Friday night’s festivities, those interested in pictures with Saint Nicholas can meet him at the Merritt Civic Centre on Saturday from 10 AM to 11:30 AM, and 1 PM to 3 PM. On Sunday, Santa

Claus will serve up pancakes and other breakfast staples during the Knights of Columbus and Grad Class of 2023 breakfast with Santa. The breakfast will support both the graduating class and the nonprofit service organization, and take place at the Merritt Civic Centre from 10AM to noon.

From there, Santa is off to the Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre.

“We usually have Santa come and visit us every year,” said Alix Legouffe, aquatic supervisor for the City of Merritt.

“This is the first time we’re

Merrittonians will have plenty of chances to see Kris Kringle across town this Country Christmas Week. Photo/Herald File

doing it again. Santa usually just pops in, and we do a couple of crafts on the viewing deck. Santa will be here from 12 to 1, and there will be cookies to decorate along

with Christmas crafts. There will also be regular swimming.”

Santa Claus will stay at the pool from noon until 1PM, at which point he will return to the North Pole to

begin Christmas preparations. The pool will remain open until 4pm on Sunday, allowing plenty of time to splash with Santa.

For more information on Country

Christmas, including times and loca tions of events throughout the week , visit the Committee’s page at www. facebook.com/ countrychristmas.

Sunday,

Line up at 5:00 Parade Starts at 7:00 pm. Starting at the corner of Cleasby St. & Coldwater Ave by the Elks Hall. Down Coldwater Ave to Chapman St. Down Chapman St. to Coutlee Ave. Down Coutlee Ave to Charters St. Down Charters St to Quilchena Ave. Down Quilchena Ave ending at corner of Quilchena Ave and Chapman St. Pictures with Santa opens after the parade 8:00 9:30pm, Civic Centre

Saturday live music for Country Christmas Week

evening.”

The event will take place on Saturday, November 26, starting at 7pm. Roline added the music will likely go until midnight. With a full docket of local performers, the eve ning is sure to have people up on their feet. There is no charge to attend the event. Roline said her organization is excited to participate in the Country Christmas programming.

“We just felt that it would be nice to tie in with the Country Christmas week, and sort of wrap it up on Saturday night,” said Roline.

“We’ll also be open late on Friday night, the night of the parade. We’ll have a warming place for people to just pop in and warm up.”

Roline added that the collabora tion between the Hall of Honour and the Merritt Country Christmas Week Committee has been not only productive, but also mutu ally beneficial for both non-profit organizations.

TIME PHARMACY ASSISTANT

Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Country Christmas Week is here, and a number of organizations are getting in on the holiday cheer. After a week packed with craft fair shopping, parade watching, and hot chocolate drinking, Merrittonians will be treated to a live music performance at the Country Music Hall of Honour down town.

The Country Music Hall of Honour, formerly known as the Hall of Fame, is located at 2025 Quilchena Avenue. The music museum and mul tipurpose hall honours a number of country music artists, many of whom are local or have local connections. In past iterations of Merritt’s iconic Country Christmas week, the hall has hosted a Festival of Trees event featuring a number of communitydecorated Christmas trees. This time around, they’re bringing out the instruments.

“Saturday night we’re going to have live music, so we have a lot of our local musicians coming out to play,” said Susan Roline, treasurer and convener with the Hall of Honour.

“We have Gary Cooper with Cooper Country, Robert Bertrand, Harley Carmen, Ross Fairweather, Stuart Emslie, and Marilyn Christensen. It should be a really nice

Roline said the Hall’s board is grateful for the opportunity to participate, and for the attention the week brings to an often over looked commu nity landmark.

Saturday’s music night is just one event in a holly-jolly week of Country Christmas events, with the iconic week finally returning after a two year hiatus.

The COVID19 pandemic forced the can cellation of the 2020 Country Christmas Week, followed by the November 2021 flooding event curbing any hope of a comeback.

In 2022, Country Christmas Week is back and stron ger than ever, and organizers are excited to take part.

Marius

The Country Music Hall of Honour on Quilchena Avenue annually hosts a number of Country Christmas Week festivities. Photo/ Herald File

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Parade route update

This year marks the return of the parade, along with the rest of the Country Christmas festivities. In its return, the parade looks to shake things up by intro ducing a different route. Committee

President and Parade Head Carrie Ware believes that the change would make the parade a safer and more enjoyable experience.

On Friday, November 25, at 5 p.m., the floats and attendees of the parade will begin to gather on Canford Avenue. Much dif ferent than the last parade where the Civic Centre was made the gathering spot. By 7 p.m. the parade will begin by the Elks Hall, turning to Coldwater Avenue, then Chapman Street, along Coutlee Avenue, turning at Charters Street, and finally turning to Quilchena Avenue, ending the route by Trinity Church.

“We have changed the parade route for several reasons,” said Ware. “The main reason is due to safety.”

The old route started at the Civic Centre going down

Chapman Street, crossing Nicola Avenue until reach ing Quilchena Avenue, by Trinity Church, turning right and dispersing by the Q101 build ing.

“The problem with that is, we would be coming in by the Fire Station on Nicola Avenue and we get a back up on Nicola Avenue as the floats were all trying to turn in at the same time,” Ware explained.

“You’ve got an accident wait ing to happen on the highway and as we’re cross ing the highway, there’s more red tape that we now need to deal with; we now need to get the Ministry of Transportation involved, we now need an RCMP officer or a certified traffic enforcer to handle the flow of traffic.”

Ware added that the old route entailed vehicles making turns in residential areas that are unsuitable for their size.

“You’re talking about residential street width,” she said. “You’re not talking about highway width and we’ve got transport trucks in

our parade, they don’t corner well on things like that. People often under estimate how wide these trucks need to swing each corner, resulting in a num ber of near misses of kids in the past.”

With the intro duction of this change, Ware acknowledged that a number of people were against it but she ultimately believes that it would benefit the event overall.

The Country Christmas Parade is one of the main events during the week of festivities. Ware notes that it was even once regarded as “one of the top winter night parades in North America.”

Roughly 35 floats were regis tered as of Monday, November 21, a very decent out come compared to the average of roughly 50 floats in years past.

The parade is a longstand ing tradition that only took a break the past two years because of both the COVID-19 pandemic and last year’s flooding event.

“It’s a lot of work but it’s worth it when you see the people downtown screaming and yell ing at their favou rite floats.”

Tony Luck challenges elections results

Marius Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Former City Councillor and 2022 mayoral can didate, Tony Luck, has filed a petition to the Supreme Court of British Columbia seeking that the City of Merritt’s 2022 local election be declared invalid.

Luck filed his petition to the Supreme Court on the last day chal lenges to the elec tion were accepted, November 17, which is 30 days following the dec laration of official results. In his peti tion, Luck alleges a number of improp er practices and procedures took place in the City of Merritt’s election process. The peti tion is filed between Luck and the City, along with Chief Elections Officer Greg Lowis.

Lowis confirmed that the city is aware of the filing, and that while they are seeking legal counsel, they are confident in the validity of the elec tion. Luck declined to comment to the Herald, citing the need for additional time to prepare before commenting.

“He has every right to do that, it’s a part of the whole system of being Canadian,” said Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz when asked about the court filing.

“We’ll see where it goes. The only thing I find a little disturbing about this is that it’s kind of disrespectful to all the people that showed up at 7 o’clock in the morning and counted votes till 4:30 [the next

morning] and to everybody else that was involved. I think it’s a little bit of a slap in the face to those people.” Goetz added that he doesn’t take the court filing per sonally, and hopes election workers don’t either.

Luck’s Supreme Court petition alleges a number of improper prac tices undertaken by election officials.

Among the com plaints was the improper sealing of ballot boxes, ballot numbers being recorded alongside voters’ names, a discrep ancy between the number of bal lots handed out and the number counted, and that the ballots weren’t bound, against best practices. Luck also alleges that not all voters were asked to sign declarations of address, adding

that his daughter only verbally con firmed hers despite presenting identifi cations without an address on it.

The court fil ing also alleges a number of improper practices once voting had closed, including lax security in the council chambers.

Luck said that there was no confirma tion of authority to be present in the counting area, the door to which he

said was left open throughout the count. Luck also said the floor by the counter’s feet was cluttered with personal items. As a result of his find ings, Luck looks to have the election invalidated. The City has 21 days to respond to the pro ceedings started by Luck against them.

The Herald will continue to bring you in-depth cover age of this ongoing case.

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Tony Luck served as a Merritt City Councillor from 2018-2022. Photo/Herald File

2019 Parade. Photo/ Merritt Country Christmas Committee

Country Christmas Week brings back annual Craft Fair

Acason, organizer of the Craft Fair.

“People are taking the time to make these different kinds of items and they want to share it with other people. You can’t get a lot of this stuff in the store. If you do, the quality won’t be the same.”

With this year marking the return of Merritt Country Christmas Week, Acason is very excited for people to see the great products that will be on display through out the fair.

“We have many different ideas for the Christmas packages,” she said. “We have macrame and live portrait painting, sew ing, knitting, quilting, and much more.”

For a fee of $60 vendors get a table and two chairs for use during the fair. There were 63 vendors in the last Country Christmas Craft Fair, and as of Friday, November 18, 42 vendors have already signed up to become a part of this year’s event at the Civic Centre.

“I only gave people a short notice for this event, so I was kind of shocked with the amount of sign ups. People are still phoning me, wanting to get a table because of the good results that they’ve heard.”

‘Tis the season of giving, and for many shoppers, the hunt for the perfect gift starts quite early. As a unique proposition,

Merritt Country Christmas Week invites shoppers to visit the Craft Fair happening on November 26-27 to see what homemade crafts and other goodies they could fill their stockings and giftboxes with.

“Crafts are personal,” said Jean

“Everything there is homemade,” she added. “Even the concession stand food is all homemade. There is absolutely nothing there store bought.”

A crafter herself, Acason has been organizing the annual event for five years.

“The lady who had run this before me had moved,” Acason explained. “I was helping her out at the beginning and even tually I took over for her.”

“It [Vendor Fee] is a lot cheaper in Merritt than it would be in other places. We have vendors coming from Vancouver, Kamloops, and Barriere. Customers are coming from all over, as well.”

The Merritt Country Christmas Craft Fair is an annual event that is a regular part of the week long event. It is set to take place at the Civic Centre on Friday, November 26, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, November 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Work stoppage ends at HVC following safety shut down

Union workers at Highland Valley Copper (HVC) mine were back to work on November 17, following a safety stand down job action the pre vious day.

United Steelworkers Local 7619 members at the mine refused to work earlier last week after a

safety incident. Sources confirmed to the Herald that a Bucyrus 495, a mining shovel used to load large haul trucks with ore, fell off its jack stands during maintenance on November 14.

Teck Resources, HVC’s parent company, said in a statement

on Wednesday (November 16) that it was working with the United Steelworkers to

allow for the safe resumption of regular opera tion at the Logan Lake area mine.

The outcome of these discussions are unknown, but union members are now back to work.

We understand life happens.

The Herald has reached out to USW 7619 for comment.

2014 Country Christmas Craft Fair. Photo/Herald File

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

United Steelworkers Local 7619, at Highland Valley Copper mine went on a one-day safety stand down after a piece of machinery col lapsed. Photo/Mining Mayhem

Marius Auer

REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

On September 20, 2022, FortisBC Energy Inc. (FEI) filed its Application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the Interior Transmission System (ITS) Transmission Integrity Management Capabilities (TIMC) Project (Application) with the British Columbia Utilities Commission The purpose of the project is to enable FEI to detect cracking threats on its ITS pipelines The Application consists of alterations to ITS pipelines and facilities in the province’s interior area The estimated total cost of the project is $84 6 million

Cents lose back-to-back nights of a 2-day road trip

Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Merritt Centennials struggled while on the road this week, playing two strong games but ultimate ly losing out to the Cranbrook Bucks

and Trail Smoke Eaters. The Cents lost 5-2 against the Bucks before com ing short of the win again in Trail, losing that game 3-1.

In their first night of action against the Cranbrook Bucks, at their home arena of Western Financial Place, the Cents struggled in the first period. Bucks Left Wing Donovan Frias

opened up scor ing 4:23 into the game, sneaking one past Cents start ing goalie Connor Sullivan. Just six minutes later, #10 Noah Quinn scored another goal for the Bucks. This was followed by two more Bucks goals before the end of the first period, with Nick Peluso and Jack Silich mak ing it 4-0 for the Bucks. The Cents switched goalies for #1 Johnny Hicks before starting the second period, which saw Forward Walker Erickson,

assisted by Tristan Allen and Jaxson Murray, score a Cents goal on a power play due to a Bucks hooking call. Nine minutes later, Connor Farren scored what would be the final Cents goal of the night. The third period was strong defen sively for the Cents, only allowing one goal by Donovan Frias with 45 sec onds left in the game. The Cents left Cranbrook with a 5-2 loss.

The Cents took on the Trail Smoke Eaters at Cominco Arena,

putting on a strong performance, but ultimately losing out. Both teams had a strong first period defensively, with the Cents opening up scoring at the 18:30 mark. Forward Christian Lowe, assisted by Jaxson Murray and Jackson Krill, scored the night’s first goal against Smoke Eaters goalie Teagan Kendrick. A slash ing penalty against #14 Remy Spooner allowed a Cents power play goal to close out the first. The Smoke Eaters responded

with two goals in the second period, one at the 10 min ute mark by Trail Forward Mathieu Cobetto-Roy, and a game winning goal by Trey Fechko with 30 seconds left in the period. The third period saw just one team score, an insurance goal by the Smoke Eaters’ Evan Bushy 8:23 in. Each team drew three penal ties during the final period of play, including hooking, roughing, tripping, misconduct, and minor blow to the head. The final buzzer sounded

with a 3-1 win for the Trail Smoke Eaters.

The Merritt Centennials will play their next two games at home, first host ing the Langley Rivermen on Friday, November 25, at 7:30pm in the NVMA.

On Sunday, the Salmon Arm Silverbacks will visit the Cents at home, with the two teams battling it out in an afternoon (2:00pm) game. For more information, or for tickets, visit www.merrittcenten nials.com.

Krill makes All Star team MSC hosts membership drive

“I never really had the Allstar game in my mind but I’m very fortunate that it happened,” said Krill. “I have to give credit to my coaches and teammates for my success on the ice. Everyone is always trying to get each other better. We are a tight group and I am very proud of what we have done so far this year.”

“He had a great summer,” said Head Coach Curtis Toneff. “He works really hard and takes it seriously. He is defi nitely an allstar in this league with a pro shot and a very dynamic offense.”

The All Star Tournament will be tak ing place in Penticton on January 21, 2023. As part of the 60th Anniversary celebration of the BCHL.

Snowmobile Club maintains over 150 kilometers of trail systems in the Nicola Valley. Photo/Herald File

Auer REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

ances, and many other perks as part of its membership. The organization spends countless hours and significant cash to maintain its trail systems, and is largely supported by membership dues and spon sorships.

“We will have a draw for all members that have signed up, from the start of the season until November 30, for a new BCA 2-Way Radio,” says Simon Rizzardo, MSC’s vice-president.

“While you’re at the shop, gear up for the season with all your oil, gloves, power saws, or anything power sports related.”

On Thursday, November 17, the BCHL announced their first 18 skat ers that will be a part of the 3-on-3 All Star Tournament, which includes Centennials Forward Jackson Krill. This year, playing in his third season, the 18 year old has scored 11 goals and made 10 assists in the 20 games he has played so far, which earned him his first All Star selection.

All 18 BCHL coaches voted for one player on each team to form the first 18 All Star selections, while the rest of the roster selections will be put up to a vote. Fellow Centennial Tristan Allen is up for the remaining six slots. Please visit www.bchl.ca/fanvote, to cast your vote, open until 4 p.m. on Friday, November 25.

The Merritt Snowmobile Club is gear ing up for a fun winter on the trails, and looks to recruit new members to join in on the action. Snowmobiling has been a win ter pastime of Merrittonians for decades, offering hours of high octane fun in the great outdoors.

On Thursday, November 24, the MSC will host a membership drive from 3-7PM at Nicola Motorsports on Nicola Avenue. Individuals and families alike are encour aged to attend and sign up for the MSC. The club offers discounts, access to insur

The volunteer-based organization, orig inally founded in April of 1972, has been dedicated to the development and main tenance of their extensive snowmobiling trail system ever since. The club maintains its riding areas in the Thynne Mountain, Stoyoma Mountain, Honeymoon Lakes, and Hooshum Ridge areas.

Nicola Motorsports is located at 2626 Nicola Avenue, and will be the host of this Thursday’s membership drive. For more information on the MSC, visit www.sled merritt.ca, or call Simon at 250-315-5984.

The Merritt Centennials had a tough weekend away, losing both games on the road against the Cranbrook Bucks and Trail Smoke Eaters. Photo/Izaiah Reyes

Merritt Centennials All Star Forward Jackson Krill. Photo/Merritt Centennials

The Merritt

Marius

Marius

Izaiah Reyes NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

SPORTS

NVSC competes in the ‘Fun Falling Leaves’ event

the next time they can do this.”

For the Jr. Academy Skaters, ‘Fun Falling Leaves’ is the only competition available for them to join, while the event served as a good practice for STAR skaters, levels 1-4.

“It’s good because they get a feel of what it’s like warming up and getting ready mentally and physi cally for a competition and then having their perfor mance,” Lorenz noted.

The following are the results for the competition in Kamloops:

• Olivia Boone - Silver in STAR 1, Poplar FreeSkate Elements Event

• Meera-Bella Lalli - Bronze in STAR 1, Poplar FreeSkate Elements Event

• Imroz Brar - Gold in Jr. Academy, Aspen Elements

• Sofia McCulloch - Gold in Jr. Academy Aspen Elements

NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

The Nicola Valley Skate Club (NVSC) is showcas ing the skills of its skaters once again this season. The Kamloops Skating Club hosted its annual ‘Fun Falling Leaves’ competition on Saturday, November 12.

There were 10 skaters from NVSC who partici pated in the competition, ranging from Jr. Academy Skaters to STAR 4 level skaters.

“They were nervous but once they got out there they were really enjoying themselves and having fun, ” said Coach Diana Lorenz. “They couldn’t wait until

• Mackenna Forman - Gold in Jr. Academy Willow Elements

• Naomi Reid - Gold in Jr. Academy Willow Elements

• Aniyah Sekhon - Silver in Jr. Academy Willow Elements

• Avery Starrs - Gold in STAR 2 Solo, Birch

• Everley Russell - Gold in STAR 2 Solo, Birch

• Jayda Starrs - Gold in STAR 4 Solo, Oak STAR 1-4 skaters now prepare for their upcoming competition in Kelowna on Friday, November 25.

Panthers Volleyball: Triana Clarke and Brooke Robichaud

as a middle player representing number 22 on the court. Clarke has been playing volleyball since the 6th grade and has enjoyed every minute of it.

Eleventh grade volleyball player

Triana Clarke reflects on her season proudly, serving the team

Clarke’s favou rite volleyball memory thus far happened this season at the Vernon volleyball tournament. Being

Trianas first out of town tourna ment, the whole team played hard throughout the day and spent the evening at a halloween corn maze, which was a blast for the whole team. Clarke loves the teamwork involved in vol leyball, stating, “being able to communicate and

win on the court has to be the best part, it involves so much teamwork that I love about volleyball”.

Another 11th grade player, Brooke Robichaud, recalls her favourite memory to be at her first overnight tournament in Revelstoke the previous year.

Robichauds’ team ended up second in the tournament and enjoyed their time as a team. Brooke, number 16, represents the panthers as a power, but also loves to play the middle position. Robichaud has been playing vol leyball for 6 years and loves the sport. Brooke’s favourite part about volleyball is the excitement of winning as a team.

Number 22 and 16 are thrilled to not only be competing in provincials, but to be hosting it in Merritt. Both girls are looking forward to meet ing new teams and representing the Panthers, as well as working hard to prepare for volley ball next season.

NVSC Skaters competed at the ‘Fun Falling Leaves’ event in Kamloops. Photo/NVSC

Brooke Robichaud (Left), Willow Johnny (Middle) and Triana Clarke (Right) at the Air Attack Volleyball Tournament. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Izaiah Reyes

MAYA STARRS

MSS

Conayt Friendship Society runs support group for men

food, and a discussion of their chosen topic of the week.

“I’ve been coming here since April,” said Doug Dixon, member of the Warrior Circle.

attended the November 9 meeting, all were welcoming, some very enthusiastic in sharing how the group has helped their life.

The Men’s support group, or Men’s Warrior Circle, is a program by Conayt that was started up in March of this year. Its aim is to provide a safe environment for men to discuss their life struggles and the challenges they face in finding their way back in society.

“We have a lot of men warriors out there lost, and their self esteem is low,” said Alcohol and Drug Counsellor Richard Jackson. “They need help to process what they’re going through, relationships with their partners, with their children, and everything else in life.”

Since March 23, the group has held a meeting every Wednesday at the back of the Conayt building. They have opened their doors and invited men from all walks of life.

The meetings are held every Wednesday at noon. The group follows a program which includes prayer, music,

“Sometimes there’s only two or three of us here, but what I’ve found is we’ve gradually grown, with now around 10 people regularly coming to the sessions.”

The Herald attended during the November 9 meeting of the support group. The program starts with a prayer followed by hand drumming.

“After Richard leads the opening prayer, I grab the drum and play our opening song,” said member Leonard Bearshirt, who during the meeting played an Indigenous Veterans song in commemoration of Indigenous Veterans Day.

“The drum beat helps all the men here. The drum is our power, it is a symbol of strength and of who we are as Indigenous people. It’s always a good feeling to play that drum and sing to the members.”

After music comes food. A free meal is served to the members attending the meetings. There were eight members who

“I was attending other meetings for another group when I learned about this men’s group,” said Dakota, the youngest member of the circle. “I was quite intrigued that it was covering the dynamics of life itself, so I decided to participate.”

“The one thing that really hits home is that the group allows me to ask questions about my life and role in this world,” he added. “It allowed me to ask those questions that I otherwise would shy away from.”

After a brief introduction, the group had their discussion on their topic of the week, parenting and fatherhood. Members were eager to share their personal experiences on the matter, and did not hold back. Jackson said this eagerness is needed for the healing process to be strong.

“We talk about men’s issues with the rest of the group and that’s what makes the healing so strong.”

The group will

continue to hold their Wednesday meetings until December, when they will take a short Christmas break and resume sessions back again in January 2023. The support group is a free of charge service and all men are invited to join. For more information, please call Conayt at (250) 378-5107.

1750 Hill Street ■ 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

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

The November 9 meeting of Conayt’s Men’s Warruor Circle. Izaiah Reyes/Herald

Muriel Morgan

June 29, 1921- November 6, 2022

Muriel Morgan 1921-2022, passed away quietly in her sleep early November 6.

She grew up in North Vancouver worked in Burrard shipyard, Departments of Veterans Affairs Vancouver and Kamloops, Indian affairs Merritt, married Philip Morgan (predeceased) and enjoyed ranching at Shulus. Later moving to Rayleigh, Vancouver and Heffley Lake. She enjoyed ranching, hiking, cross country skiing, and gardening around her home.

Muriel is survived by her son John (Ann McKinnon) and her nephew Morley

Our thanks go out to the staff of the former Berwick Brio and Sienna Ridgeview care facilities who together took care of her for 7 years. Donations to the Thompson Rivers University Foundation or Nicola Valley Institute of Technology foundation in lieu of flowers.

Condolences may be expressed at SchoeningFuneralService.com

Computer

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

Route ME16 Clapper ton Coldwater Douglas Houston Priest 81 Papers Diamond Vale Area

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UNCERTIFIED

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

Route ME70 & ME38 Ir vine, Cressy, Forksdale 76 Papers Bench Area

Route ME27, Chapman, Cleasby, Granite, Spring 65 Papers Across From Post Office

Route ME25, Canford, Cleasby, Coldwater, Hamilton Spring Wilson 120 Papers Central Area Route ME26, Main & Quilchena 55 Papers West Side Of Town