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MLS#173904 $889,000 11 a e o o y g u 20 m u o Me o o an ak ! N e 3 b d 2 b h home w h p qu ha w d a d c un fin h s he e ne n po h v e ba k a nd a ne a g ag L s o e - ou d e e o an c s o own nd m u e T p a s n-k y a d e e h n y u ee oe w h h ho s n d a u n ng o J hn D e e awn a o e S a w m w h he W od/O c d a na e wh h a ee me c ou ma n a ed nd u da d w h a n w a Th oo 2011 b a d new hw nk a d d hwa h p mb g u da d w P x & Co e Se wa s pump nd n p c d 2 a d e e g od p du g w on e T e e w b d ng - s a u qu o y o s a b a u o po n o e p a u a e y e a d p e o h s s

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Ponderosa Way

9997 Crabtree Place

6441 Jagpal Way

First responders take issue with house numbers

Address numbers in the City of Merritt must be at least 15 centimetres high, and in contrasting colours to the base colour of the building or structure. Marius Auer/Herald

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merritt first responders are reminding Nicola Valley residents to ensure their address signs are clearly visible from the public roadway, following a number of cases where lack of visibility slowed response time.

Representatives of the Merritt Ambulance Station, Merritt Fire Rescue Department (MFRD), and Community Policing Office (CPO) sat down with the Herald to talk address identification.

“I’ve been here since ‘87, so it’s something that’s kind of accumulated over the years, and I’ve always wanted to address it,” said Mae Webster, a community paramedic at Merritt’s ambulance station. “It is an issue, and it does delay our calls anywhere from two, up to 10 minutes because of the house numbers being in a place where we can see them.”

Webster added that larger, easy to read numerals free of obstructions in a contrasting colour to the building make it easier for emergency crews to find residences when responding to calls. She noted that the issue of address identifica-

tion comes up often at the ambulance station.

“I hear the crews being really frustrated about finding addresses,” she said.

Dave Tomkinson, Merritt’s fire chief, said the city has reminded residents of address number requirements through public education efforts several times, but that the issue is still relevant. He said that while some emergency responders are local and may be able to find their way despite poorly or improperly marked addresses, some paramedics come to Merritt from other localities.

“Maybe that’s a benefit for our local RCMP and firefighters, that most of us live here, but you might have paramedic crews that are coming in from out of the city,” said Tomkinson.

Tomkinson added that the city has clearly defined bylaws dictating the requirements for address markings, which he believes are sufficient for quick identification of residences in Merritt when followed correctly.

The City of Merritt’s Fire and Safety Regulations Bylaw No. 2272, 2019, states the following under ‘Address Identification’:

Johnny’s on the Rez

10.1. All buildings or structures on any lot or parcel of land within the municipal boundaries shall be properly identified with numbers facing the city road which accesses the property, indicating their city address as designated by the City of Merritt.

10.2. All address numbers in the City of Merritt shall be a minimum of 15 centimetres high, with a 1 cm stroke in contrasting colours to the base colour of the building or structure. Address numbers shall not be obstructed by shrubs, trees, beams, or any other material that would impair quick and easy identification.

Webster added she saw a recommendation online to type one’s civic address number into a word processors using the specified requirements before printing and pasting it on the building. By viewing it from street, it can be determined whether the numerals should be made larger for easier identification. Illuminated and reflective numerals are preferred, but not required.

For rural addresses near Merritt, the Thompson Nicola Regional District offers

See RESPONSE Page 5

The Infracon Diggers took home the ‘A’ division championship in the year end tournament last week. The Diggers defeated the Detox in the final with a score of 25-15.

Poorly visible addresses could increase emergency response time

RCMP respond to calls and areas for a number of different reasons, which only increases the

Jones.

From Page 3

double-sided, reflective white and green, vinyl covered aluminum address signs with four inch high numerals, in compliance with Transport Association of Canada standards. They are required to be visible at night from the property’s public access road, similar to the city’s requirements.

Tomkinson noted long driveways must have them at the end of the driveway, both in and out of city limits. He added that address numerals are important for not only identifying residences, but also for wayfinding.

“We have pretty elaborate mapping in our vehicles, but it’s like any type of technology, it can fail, we can lose satellite communication, and things like that,” explained Tomkinson. “GPS can be wrong, the data that’s available and new streets that are added and things like that can make information available online unreliable.”

The MFRD’s computer aided dispatch mapping system is updated every six months, so roads and addresses added between could be missed and needed to be located physically. This issue is compounded by different anomalies with city planning and addresses, including with street direction and corner lots.

Address identification is just as important for police, who may be responding to an area for a number of different and dynamic reasons.

“The reasons police are attending a neighbourhood can really vary, it’s a wide scope, maybe more so than other first responders, and those situations can change really quickly,” said Marlene Jones, coordinator of Merritt’s Community Policing Office. “It’s important for the safety of the first responders attending into those neighbourhoods that you do use this as a priority, and that you make sure that yours [address sign] is visible.”

Jones noted that the issue of address signs often doesn’t come up until they are needed by first responders, which could be too late.

“They may not be responding to your place, but it may be important for direction of travel or something like that, that a first responder can easily see what your address is,” she said.

Jones added that businesses also sometimes overlook the requirement of clear address markings. While some businesses have been in the same location in the city for decades, those new to the city, or first responder agencies having to call to other agencies, will want a physical address.

All three representatives agreed that the need for clearly marked addresses is key to ensure quick and accurate response by emergency services, both to businesses and to private residences.

need to have addresses visible, said CPO coordinator Marlene

Photo/Herald File

by Leonard Robertson

ALBAS: essential to look at post-wildfire mitigation

ways and there are far too many stories to mention in the space of some 600 words in this column.

However, I would like to ask that people take a moment to recognize that some residents will return to a family home that is no longer there.

People in this situation face a challenge that cannot be easily put into words. If you know someone who has been displaced from these fires, please reach out and do everything that you can to help out.

While I was not an elected official in 2003, it is an important question. I have heard from some involved in the 2003 wildfire and many involved in our current fire situation.

From the reports that I have heard, communication is vastly improved today. Evacuation orders and alerts happen more proactively and are better communicated in real-time.

Fire activity can have a serious impact on drainage that can enhance flood risks -- as we have past observed in Merritt and Princeton, B.C.

Another concern is fire contaminants entering local reservoirs during periods of intense rain.

somewhat abating, and some evacuation zones have been lifted.

This is good news.

We owe immense gratitude to our incredible firefighting community and our other emergency responders who came from far and wide across, not just British Columbia but other parts of Canada and from other countries, and continue work incredibly long hours under difficult, dangerous and demanding conditions.

Our community has come together in many extraordinary

Another group of citizens was not displaced or evacuated by the fire, but lost work due to business closures and other travel restrictions. For those in this situation, they have lost income at a time when many have bills at an all-time high and those bills do not go away at the end of the month.

Any donations you can make to a local food bank or other organizations that help those in need will be greatly appreciated.

I was asked recently: “What has changed from the Okanagan Mountain wildfire in 2003 to the McDougall Creek wildfire of 2023”?

Unfortunately, there are still processing problems getting large groups of citizens evacuated and onto emergency assistance programs quickly and efficiently. This is particularly important for those who are financially struggling and cannot afford any additional funds out of pocket.

In some areas of my riding, such as with the Crater Creek fire (located west of Keremeos), Chief Keith Crow of the Lower Similkameen Indian Band has publicly questioned why some actions were not initiated sooner. From my perspective, these are important questions that need to be answered.

I also believe it is essential that we look at post-wildfire mitigation going forward.

These are all factors I believe we must be proactive on and in a timely manner.

I am also curious if, in the future, there will be a formal review of provincial wildfire situation. There are certainly many accolades to be shared, along with a few challenges.

On a positive note and based on my experience, communications between different levels of government, including first responders, civil servants, and elected officials, has improved dramatically. This is important as obstacles must be identified quickly so they can be addressed.

My question this week is to anyone who is impacted by these wildfires:

What would you like to share with your elected officials about this still unfolding experience?

LETTERS to the editor

The time to get ready for the next inevitable firestorm is now

Editor,

Reflecting on several years as a volunteer fireman, living in a fire department, I would like to share a few observations.

Almost all of the fires we responded to were grass fires – that could’ve been prevented.

Keeping that grass short and green is an important first step in fire prevention.

Perimetre fire-guards and fire-safe zones around developed areas are also very important.

We are at the end of another absolute wildfire disaster, and a few issues need to be discussed, and decisions made about priorities, jurisdictions, and who should pay for what.

As a first priority, the time to respond to a fire, is the very minute it is discovered. Everything else is of secondary priority.

The Martin Mars water bombers were an incredible weapon to fight

EDITORIAL

forest fires, but more efficient aircrafts, firefighting equipment, and techniques give us more and better choices today.

Cost per mile travelled to deliver that water is the principal equation.

A helicopter may seem extravagant, but proximity, time-and-distance are big factors.

To get size and quantities in better focus, 1,000 hectares is about four sections of land, four square miles, or 10 square kilometres.

A cubic metre of water is about 1.3 cubic yards, 35 cubic feet, 220 imperial gallons, or 1,000 litres.

The time to get ready for the next inevitable firestorm is today – not two hours or two days after it hits us.

Thanks for listening.

Andy Thomsen Kelowna, B.C.

SUTTON: 4-H to display projects

Hello everyone! Labour Day weekend our 4-H Club will be showing our animals, so come on down to the rodeo grounds. Our final 4-H event of the year is coming up at the BC Ag Expo in Barriere.

From September 21-25, our members will be showcasing all their hard work. The beef members judge animals, show their steer, heifer, cow calf pair on halter and then auction their project at the end.

Please support our local 4-H-ers and check out bcagexpo.ca, or even come on over to Barriere to cheer us on!

From the Herald archives: August, 2008

LOCALS

FUMING OVER PARK

Merritt residents are up in arms over the decision to locate the new recycling centre in a public park.

At its July 22 meeting, council decided to convert the Main Street Park, located at the corner of Main Street and Canford Avenue, into a new recycling centre.

The vote was unanimous, except for Coun. Peter Samra, who was absent.

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.

Lovely 3 bedroom plus office that is move in ready with a well designed yard space Inside has open plan for good sized kitchen and living room. Bonus features for home are vinyl windows, new fur nace and hot water tank in 2023 and six appliance come with. Fully fenced back and side yards with plenty of parking and picture per fect landscaping all around

$180,000

Arthur Sutton NICOLA VALLEY 4-H CLUB

The Nicola Valley 4-H Club has operated in the area for decades. Photo/Arthur Sutton

#17 - 1098 HOUSTON ST.

Fate of city-owned compost facility up for debate in future meeting

Laísa Condé REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merritt City Council opted to receive more information from City staff before making a decision on the future of its compost facility at its meeting last night.

The Merritt Compost Facility located on Airport Road was purchased by the City of Merritt in 2015 for $300,000 from its previous owners, The Good Earth Company. The site’s assets include composting equipment and biosolids inventory, which treats the city’s wastewater.

Rick Green, City of Merritt’s director of engineering and public works, said after a few inspections done at the compost facility, he noticed the City needs to think about upgrades to the site.

“It’s gonna take some investment to bring this site up to proper working order, so that we have a safe environment for staff that’s working up there,” he said to council.

According to a City report attached to yesterday’s (August 22) council meeting agenda, there were four solutions brought to the council by City staff to fix the City Compost Facility’s safe working environment and site operation.

In the report, the first option would be to continue to operate the compost site as a city facility and address the site safety and work environment issues as budget allows, meaning that a significant amount of money would be required in a shortterm to bring the site up to standards.

The second option would be contracting hauling services to pick up and haul the biowaste to another facility for processing. The third option would be upgrading the City’s internal hauling capacity and haul to another facility.

As for the last option, the city would request proposals for the site’s lease and operation as a private service and continue hauling city biowaste to this site for disposal.

In the meeting, Mayor Mike Goetz reminded that the compost facility has a lot of history behind it and that he doesn’t feel the council has all the information on that.

“I think making a decision tonight would be a little erroneous on our part,” he said.

Green said that all the options will take some work to properly get the amount of money that each of them would cost.

“We haven’t been able to deep dive

HAPPY LABOUR DAY FROM BC’S LARGEST UNION

all those costs at this point because we’re dealing more with the concept of ‘do we want to push forward and run the facility and bring it up to standards or not’,” he said.

According to the City staff report, the city spends between $200,000 to $300,000 to operate the site annually, with revenues partially offsetting the costs at approximately $75,000 annually in recent years.

City council voted for a motion to

move the matter to a Committee of the Whole meeting in the near future to analyze all the information about the compost facility and the possibilities of its future use.

CUPE BC’s 100,000 members provide the public services and education that build strong communities.

• Full-time Kindergarten – must be 5 yrs by Dec 31, 2023

• Bus Services provided to all areas of Merritt

HEAD START SERVICES:

• 3 & 4 year old Program (K4 must be 4 yrs old by Dec 31, 2023)

• Home Visiting Program

• Transportation provided for all Head Start program

• Mom’s & Tot’s Services 0 to 6 years old

CURRICULUM:

• New BC Curriculum

• Nle?kepmx

• Cultural Studies

• Field Trips

• Learning Assistance Program

• School supplies provided

• SKATING/HOCKEY PROGRAM

• Joyful Literacy

FACILITIES:

• Full-Size Gymnasium

• Library

• Baseball/Soccer Field

Lower Nicola Band School

City of Merritt announces hiring of new Chief Administrative Officer

Marius Auer

After an extensive search for its new chief administrative officer that began early last month, the City of Merritt has announced Cynthia White will take over the position on Monday (September 4).

Sean Smith, the City’s previous CAO, departed the top job at city hall for a role in the private sector last month.

The City said in a release White hails from the Northwest Territories, from a small community of 2,500 people near the northern Alberta border. She recently lead the municipality of Fort Smith, N.W.T as its senior administrative officer. The city noted her scope of work in Fort Smith was varying, including housing, climate, community facilities, economic development, recreation programs, roads, water, sewer, infrastructure, and bylaw.

“Ms. White accomplished a lot in her tenure at Fort Smith,” said Christine Carlson, the City’s director of human resources. “Her prolific results combined with a passionate community-oriented approach made her the ideal candidate for the City.”

White will work alongside council members to oversee city operations, including overall business planning, fund development, and operations management. Mayor Mike Goetz said in the release that White’s devotion to the community is evident, noting his confidence in White’s leadership and her ability to “steer the City of Merritt toward a productive and progressive future.”

“We are thrilled to have Cynthia join us,” said Goetz. “We are impressed with her diverse background in municipal oper-

ations, community health and wellness, infrastructure development, and community safety and security.”

He added that White earned the respect of her peers through her dedication to her team, and her unwavering commitment to community welfare. White also previously served as a constable with the RCMP, along with holding two Master’s degrees: one in occupational therapy and the other in rehabilitation science.

White also holds certifications in public sector procurement, asset management planning, and leadership.

“I am very much looking forward to working with the City of Merritt,” commented White. “It looks to be a great community with a great team, with abundant amenities and expansive outdoor opportunities.”

The City noted White will tackle projects spanning different domains, with an initial focus on infrastructure, such as the Middlesboro Bridge reconstruction. She will also address social issues in the city, from housing to health and wellness.

“She [White] is equally passionate about driving economic development, building innovative sectors, improving amenities, and making the city of Merritt the ideal hub to live, play, and do business,” added the release.

White, who was family ties on Vancouver Island, noted she looks forward to relocating to the more central location Merritt offers, with its convenient access to both the coast and the Interior.

The new CAO will commence her work Sept. 4, 2023, although she planned to commence remote work for about a month before relocating with her family.

Cynthia White will serve as the City of Merritt’s new chief administrative officer starting Sept. 4, following Sean Smith’s departure in July. Photo/City of Merritt

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

Success for ALL Learners ~ Today and Tomorrow

2023 - 2024 STUDENT REGISTRATION

ELEMENTARY STUDENT REGISTRATION For “NEW” Elementary schoo students, please register your ch ld on l ne or at your neighbourhood schoo from Monday to Fr day August 28 to September 1 2023 Schoo s wil be open from 9:00 – 11:30 a m and 1:00 – 2:30 p m Cal ahead to make an appointment

KINDERGARTEN: To register, a child must be 5 years of age, on or before December 31, 2023 and a birth certificate, immunization record, Care Card, and proof of residence shou d be presented Kindergarten start dates wil be arranged through the schoo

FRENCH IMMERSION:

A l students in this program attend Co lettv lle Elementary Schoo (Grades K-7), and Merr tt Secondary School (Grades 8-12)

GRADE 8 - 12 MERRITT SECONDARY SCHOOL 250-378-5131

New students register on line or at the school from August 28 to September 1 2023 Counsel ors wi l be available and students are to make an appointment

THE COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTRE o f f e r s c o u r s e s f o r G r a d e 1 0 t o 1 2 s t u d e n t s t o c o m p l e t e t h e i r D o g w o o d D i p o m a A o n g w t h a c a d e m c c o u r s e w o r k s t u d e n t s w i h a v e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o p a r t i c p a t e n a n O u t d o o r a n d b a s e d l e a r n i n g p r o g r a m h a v e a c c e s s t o a d d i t o n a l s o c a e m o t o n a s u p p o r t s a n d t r a n s t i o n p a n n n g i n t o t h e a d u t w o r l d N e w s t u d e n t s c a n r e g i s t e r b y c a l i n g 2 5 0 - 3 7 8 - 2 1 5 7

SCIDES – 250-378-4245 or 1-800-663-3536

South Central nter or D stance Education School offers BC M n stry approved educat ona programs for students of a l ages anywhere in the prov nce of B C

SCHOOL OPENING:

Tuesday, September 5, 2023 – Adjusted hours: 10:00 a m – 12:00 noon

BUS STUDENTS:

Please check the School Bus Schedule and w th your school for bussing nformation

Tuesday, September 5, 2023 ONLY: Busses w ll p ck up students one hour LATER n the morning and return students beginning at noon

SCHOOL CALENDAR 2023 - 2024

Days in Session 192 - Number of Non-Instructional Days 185

August 28 - August 30 2023 Mon to Wed Summer Institute

September 5, 2023 Tuesday SCHOOL OPENING School hours 10:00 a m to 12 noon (Bus schedu e to be adjusted for the first day of school )

October 2, 2023 Monday National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Statutory Holiday

October 9 2023

October 20 2023

November 13 2023

November 17 2023

November 17 2023

November 17, 2023

November 21 – 22, 2023

December 22 2023

Thanksgiving Day

Non-Instructional Day (Professional Development Day )

Remembrance Day Statutory Holiday

MSS & PSS First Term Report Cards go home

Merritt & Princeton Elementary Schools Report Cards go home

Commun ty Learning Centre Report Cards go home

- Wed A l Schools – Shortened day for Parent/Teacher interviews. (Schools closed 1 hour early each day.)

Last day of school before Winter Break.

Dec. 25 2023 – Jan 5 2024 Winter Break

January 8 2024 Monday Schools reopen after the break

February 2 2024

February 16 2024

February 19, 2024

March 8, 2024

Friday MSS Grade 9 to 12 & PSS Report Cards go home

Friday Non-Instructional Day (Professional Deve opment Day )

Monday Family Day

Friday Merritt, Princeton E ementary Schools and Merr tt Secondary Grade 8 Report Cards go home

March 8 2024 Friday Commun ty Learning Centre Report Cards go home

March 12 – 13 2024

March 15 2024

March 18 - 28, 2024

March 29, 2024

Apri 1, 2024

Apri 2, 2024

Friday A l Schools – Shortened day for Parent/Teacher interviews.

(Schools closed 1 hour early each day.)

Friday Last day of school before Spring Break.

SPRING BREAK

Friday Good Friday

Monday Easter Monday

Tuesday Schools reopen after the break

Apri 12 2024 Friday MSS Grade 9 to 12 & PSS Report Cards go home

May 20 2024

Monday Victoria Day

June 27 2024 Thursday Last day of classes

June 28 2024

Friday ADMINISTRATION DAY - SCHOOLS CLOSED

SCHOOL PHONE NUMBERS

• Collettville Elementary 250-378-2230

• Diamond Vale Elementary ......250-378-2514

• Merritt Bench Elementary 250-378-2528

The StrongStart Early Learning Centres

• Nicola - Canford Elementary 250-378-2172

• Merritt Central Elementary .......250-378-9931

• Merritt Secondary School 250-378-5131

• Diamond Vale Elementary • Merritt Central Elementary • Nicola-Canford Elementary S t r o n g S t a r t s a f r e e , s c h o o l b a s e d , d r o p - i n e a r y e a r n i n g p r o g r a m f o r c h i l d r e n f r o m b r t h t o 5 y e a r s o l d a n d t h e i r p a r e n t s , g r a n d p a r e n t s o r c a r e g i v e r s T o g e t h e r t h e y s h a r e e a r n i n g e x p e r i e n c e s a n d s o c a l i n t e r a c t i o n s w t h o t h e r c h i l d r e n a n d a d u t s n a p o s t i v e a n d o p e n - e n d e d p l a y e n v i r o n m e n t S t a r t u p d a t e : S e p t e m b e r 1 1 t h ,

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE

Fami ies l ving beyond the regu ar school bus routes may be el g ble for transportation assistance for the 2019/2020 schoo year and are asked to make appl cat on before September 22 2023 regardless of whether transportation assistance was received in the past Appl cat ons after this date w l be approved as of the date the application is rece ved and wil not be retroact ve Transportation Ass stance forms can be picked up at the School Board Office in Merritt 1550 Chapman Street Transportation assistance must be renewed each year Also banking informat on w l be required as payments w l be through e-transfer

Parents are rem nded that road/weather cond t ons may cause delays/cance lat ons to the regu ar bus run(s) In extreme c rcumstances, notice of de ays w l be announced over the loca rad o stat on and the schoo w l attempt to contact parents by phone, in order that ch ldren do not wait extended time periods at a bus stop

REGISTRATION OF HOME SCHOOL LEARNERS

PARENT INFORMATION

The “School Act”:

A parent of a ch ld who s requ red to enro l n an educationa program under Section 3 (Div s on 4 – Home Education)

(a) may educate the ch d at home or e sewhere n accordance with this Div s on, and

(b) must provide that ch d with an educationa program

Registration

A parent of a chi d who is requ red under the above Section to prov de the ch ld with an educationa program must reg ster the ch d on or before September 30 in each year w th

(a) a school of the parent’s cho ce that is operating n Brit sh Co umb a

(a 1) f the chi d s an elig ble chi d a school referred to n paragraph (a) or (c), or a francophone schoo of the parent’s choice that s operating n the francophone school d strict n wh ch the parent resides,

(a 2) f the child s an immigrant ch d a schoo referred to n paragraph (a) or (c), or a francophone schoo of the parent’s choice that is operat ng in the francophone school distr ct n which the parent resides but only if the francophone educat on author ty respons ble for that school permits the parent to reg ster that child, or

(b) REPEALED 2006-21-8 effect ve June 30/06 BC Reg 195/06

(c) an ndependent schoo operating n Br tish Columbia ”

To register or to obtain further nformat on, telephone the school of your choice or write to the Superintendent of Schools, School Distr ct No 58 (Nicola-Sim kameen), Box

4100 Merritt B C V1K 1B8

Check

Nicola Valley residents encouraged to apply for new small grants

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Nicola Valley residents are eligible to apply for a regional grant that looks to increase neighbourly connections in a variety of community driven ways.

Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) is a non-profit organization, funded and supported by the Vancouver Foundation, that distributes small grants throughout the province in an attempt to create more social connections in communities across B.C.

“The grant can be anywhere between $50 to $500, and individual people can apply for this grant to create an event or provide an opportunity for themselves and their neighbours to connect with each other,” said Yunuen Perez-Vertti, NSG’s coordinator for emerging communities.

“How people connect with each other and what builds community is really up to the person and the community itself.”

The small grant program started in the Vancouver area in 1999 after the Vancouver Foundations identified a need to create connections between neighbours and communities in a grassroots way, following research that showed isolation was becoming a concern. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, NSG was expanded to cover the whole province.

Perez-Vertti said neighbourhood block parties, information sharing sessions, bringing in experts for talks, little free libraries, and anything that builds connections between neighbours are all eligible for funding. Past NSG supported projects in Merritt include the seed exchange program at the community garden, a Canford Avenue cleanup effort, last year’s Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo weekend street market revival, and a recent vermicomposting workshop.

The grants are available to any individual, regardless of age or immigration status, and the application process is hassle-free.

“We pride ourselves on the fact that this is one of the most accessible grants,” added Perez-Vertti. “A nine year-old to a 99 year-old should be able to fill out our application, and the process should be pretty easy.”

The online application process asks applicants to describe their idea for their event or initiative, and give a sample budget. Perez-Vertti said help with the application process is always available, including applications in Punjabi, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Tagalong, and Spanish.

Once the applicable application period closes, applications are reviewed by a committee of local and regional residents. Merritt is a part of NSG’s Thompson-Cariboo region, which includes the Nicola Valley, Kamloops, Revelstoke, and areas in between.

“Decisions of who gets the grants are made at the local level by a Neighbourhood Small Grant committee composed of residents of the communities in the region,” added PerezVertti. “This year, our committee has two members who reside in Merritt. One has been a committee member for three years, and the other joined this year.”

Applications for NSG’s current funding cycle will be open from Sept. 7 to Oct. 12, although funding is limited and spread between communities, so applications could close early.

For more information on NSG, visit www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca, or email Perez-Vertti at yperezvertti@ anhbc.org.

Neighbourhood Small Grants supported a Canford Avenue clean-up event earlier this year with a grant. Photo/NSG

IT ’S TIME TO CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE IN THE NICOLA VALLEY

It’s time for people to make their choice. Indicate your top picks for the Mer ritt Herald People’s Choice Awards on this entr y sheet, or using our online ballot for m at https://www.mer rittherald.com/peoples-choice-2023/

VOTE ONLINE!

https://www.merrittherald.com/ peoples-choice-2023/

O n l y o r i g i n a l n e w s p a p e r b a l l o t s a n d o n l i n e e n t r i e s w i l l b e a c c e p t e d N o m e

N a m e :

A d d r e s s :

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63 rd Pro RODEO & 46 th Nicola Valley FALL FAIR

Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo weekend events returning for 63rd year

Laísa Condé REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Some traditions never die in a town like Merritt.

The countdown has begun for what is considered one of the oldest running rodeos in British Columbia, as finishing touches are being added to the 63rd Annual Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo.

Scheduled to take place during Labour Day weekend, from September 1 to September 3, this year’s rodeo promises a captivating lineup of events that will keep rodeo lovers on the edge of their seats. The rodeo celebration kicks off with

the big return of the rodeo westernthemed parade on Friday, September 1, at 6:30 p.m., featuring local families in agriculture. Adrenaline junkies and rodeo enthusiasts will hold their breath on Saturday, September 2, as riders cling to raging bulls or bucking horses for the required eight seconds when the rodeo kicks off at 1 p.m.

Peter Spencer, president of the Nicola Valley Rodeo Association, defines the pro rodeo as “a festival celebrating the Western and ranch heritage of the Nicola Valley.”

“It’s much more than just simply what’s going on in the arena,” he said.

Spencer said that the main goal of the weekend-long event is to bring

NVRA PResideNt

PeteR sPeNceR

Merrittonians and neighbouring communities together to have a great time and rid themselves of some of the worries they have faced in the past, such as the 2021 flood and the wildfires.

“We felt it was important to show that we’re still here. We’re still capable of putting on a big show, and that which the people support, which the community supports,” he said. “I think each year there’s a different thing, but the last 2022 and 2023 (rodeo) is to demonstrate the resilience of the community and that the community is still very much together.”

Beyond the arena, the Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that reflects and integrates the region’s landscape and culture. Attendees will be able to enjoy live music performed by local musician Ross Fairweather and Patrick Spencer and Coldwater Road

See PLETHORA Page 16

‘It’s much more than just simply what’s going on in the arena.’

Plethora of activities for rodeo goers to attend this pro weekend

From Page 15

before and after rodeo performances.

The event will also bring the Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce’s street market to the rodeo grounds on Saturday morning. There will be a pancake breakfast on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. and a cowboy church at 10 a.m.

Mary MacGregor, secretary and rodeo manager of the Nicola Valley Rodeo Association, said attendees can also expect big names in the rodeo world to participate at the event.

“Haven Meged is coming, he’s a world champion. Jeremy Buhler is coming, Levi Simpson is coming,” she said. “Those are world champion team ropers.”

MacGregor also said that the 63rd annual pro rodeo will offer new attractions such as the ladies’ breakaway roping and the boy’s steer riding.

She also said that there will be a special presentation daily at the end of the rodeo in memory of Ty Pozzobon, a beloved world-class bull

rider from Merritt who took his own life in 2017.

“The bull riding this year is presented in memory of Ty Pozzobon,” MacGregor said. “Luke and Leanne Pozzobon, his parents, are going to be presenting a prize to the high point bull rider each day.”

She also said Jayson Charters will be coming to the rodeo as the “mascot hype guy” after being absent for a few years.

MacGregor hopes those who come to the event “enjoy the last weekend of the summer with your family and have a good time.”

“It (the rodeo) gives the community a chance to bond with the rural residents and people who make their living from the land in the Nicola Valley, along with the people who live in the city.”

The 63rd Annual Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo

When: September 1 to September 3

Where: Nicola Valley Rodeo Grounds – 499 Lindley Creek Rd., Merritt, B.C.

Cost: From $15 to $65, buy tickets online, www.nicolavalleyrodeo. com.

Last year’s Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo attracted thousands of spectators, participants, and sponsors for the 62nd annual event. This year promises to be even bigger and better. Marius Auer/Herald

Nicola Valley Fall Fair invites spectators of all ages to take part

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Continuing to build its post COVID-19 pandemic restriction return, the Nicola Valley Fall Fair will hold its annual exhibition this week once again.

The two-day event, held at the Merritt Exhibition Grounds on Lindley Creek Road, is an iconic part of Merritt history and the Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo weekend. The fall fair provides an opportunity for entrants to exhibit their agriculture skills, and other hobbies, to the

community.

The fair looks to raise interest in the agricultural industry, in particular improving the quality of agricultural and other products. While focusing on the exhibition of the community’s projects, it also puts emphasis on preservation and improvement of food and other necessities, a practice which was once a way of life, and necessary for survival.

With hundreds of exhibits displaying varying subjects, the preparation that goes into putting on such an event is extensive.

“I have a binder, and I have it written down on each

page what needs to be done that day, and what we’re going to do the next day,” said Kathy Reimer, convener and long-time volunteer with the fall fair. “It all, of course, depends on help. Right now there is six or seven of us working up here.”

As a volunteer driven event, Reimer said even an hour help from community members is greatly appreciated. From the ironing of table cloths, to maintenance of the Exhibition Grounds, there is something to do for volunteers of all ages. The same can be said for the actual

See FALL Page 18

The main exhibition hall at the Nicola Valley Fall Fair building last year. Marius Auer/Herald

Fall Fair held for 46th year, youth urged to participate

From Page 17

exhibition, too.

At the Fall Fair, locals can submit entries in a variety of categories, including canning, baking, fruits and vegetables, homecrafts, photography, livestock, and much more. Entries are shown to both onlookers and judges over the two-day fair. Reimer hopes the fair will attract younger generations, keeping the tradition alive.

“We again have the colouring contest for kids, so hopefully they get more involved this year,” added Reimer. “We had some last year, but it would be nice if we had lots of kids. We need them to be interested.”

Those attending the fall fair also have the option of visiting other nearby attractions, such as the Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo happening right next door to the Merritt Exhibition Grounds. Stock cars from the Merritt Speedway will be on hand for viewing, along with the rodeo, and a planned ‘vendor village.’ The rodeo parade and rodeo dance will also return this weekend as a part of the festivities.

For the fall fair, the coming days are their busiest, besides the flow of traffic through the event over the weekend. Thursday and Friday will see the bulk of entries be submitted in preparation for the weekend, although Reimer said the sooner the entries are submitted, the better. Entries are open now, and can be changed later to add more items.

Reimer and her fellow volunteers look forward to greeting the community this Saturday and Sunday, beginning at noon and 9:30 a.m., respectively.

“When you open the door and everybody comes in, I think it’s the best feeling,” she noted.

For more information on the Nicola Valley Fall Fair, visit www.facebook. com/nicolavalleyfallfair. To get involved, contact Reimer at 250-378-7270.

The 46th Annual Nicola Valley Fall Fair

When: September 2 to September 3

Where: Merritt Exhibition Grounds, 319 Lindley Creek Rd., Merritt, B.C.

Cost: From free to varying entry fees. More information is available by contacting the fall fair or checking the guide distributed in the Merritt Herald.

A spectator browses the art section of last year’s fall fair. This year’s fair will feature a smiliar section, with new artwork to take in.

Marius Auer/ Herald

Colouring

E

C h e m i s t r y i n a b o t t l e

F O R A G E &

C R O P S

A H a y d a y o f Fa r m P ro d u c t s

C A N N I N G

T h e Fre s h n e s s o f t h e g a rd e n i n a j a r.

H O M E C R A F T S

H a n dc ra f t e d

I d e a s

D A I R Y G O A T S ,

S H E E

Jugnauth family wins Merritt Centennials annual golf tournament

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A potential Merritt Centennials returnee and his family won the team’s golf tournament fundraiser this past Saturday (August 26) on the greens of the Merritt Golf and Country Club.

Damon Jugnauth, who spent last season with the Centennials, won the tournament alongside his fellow family members. The Jugnauth family shot a 47 to take the top prize at the annual fundraiser. The score was enough to best 14 other teams competing.

The shotgun start best-ball style tournament included two starts, a luncheon and dinner, sports memorabilia auctions, and an opportunity to connect with Merritt Centennials players, staff, and alumni. Green fees were comped by the local golf course, along with

numerous other contributions from local sponsors. The event is one of many put on by the Cents to raise funds for the community owned team.

Next, the Cents will hold their first ever ‘Burst the Hearse’ event, which will include a zombie walk in support of the Merritt and District Food Bank. Participants will dress as zombies while hitting the streets of Merritt, as the team collects donations of food and other goods for the food bank’s Christmas hamper program. The event will take place on October 27, followed by the Centennials Icebreaker event and parents weekend the next day.

The Cents season begins on Sept. 22, 2023, with a home game against the visiting Powell River Kings. For this season’s schedule, or to contact the team, visit www.merrittcentennials.com. The Cents can also be reached by phone at 250-378-3604.

Sights and results from the thirteenth Nicola Valley Ranch Rodeo

Marius Auer NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Ranch hands and cowboys alike took the reigns this weekend at the Nicola Valley Ranch Rodeo, showing off their ranching skills to a crowd of eager spectators.

The thirteenth annual ranch rodeo took place at the Nicola Valley Rodeo Grounds in Collettville on Saturday (August 26), organized by the Elliott and Martindale families, along with the support of a number of volunteers and sponsors.

The Nicola Valley Ranch Rodeo is comprised of 14 teams, all area ranches,

competing in events such as sorting, branding, doctoring, cow milking, bronc riding and horse racing.

After the dust in the riding arena settled, the final results were as follows:

Top Hand: Adian Cox

Top Ranch Horse Competitor: Adian Cox

Bronc Riding:

1st: Greg Vowk

2nd: Caleb Poss

3rd: Will Peters

Ranch Rodeo:

1st : D Bar D

2nd : Stump Lake Ranch

3rd : DLR Alkali Lake Ranch

4th : Beaver Ranch

Photos by Marius Auer/Herald

Damon Jugnauth (second from left) poses with his family members and golf team after the Jugnauth team took the top spot at this year’s Merritt Centennial golf tournament. Jugnauth is on the Cents roster, having spent most of last season injured. Photo/Merritt Centennials

Brian Dougherty rides for cancer research in honour of mother

Laísa Condé REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

For rider Brian Dougherty, this end of August is all about cycling for a good cause.

Brian Dougherty, chief operating officer of Horizon Contracting Group, was in Merritt Sunday after leaving Squamish and managing to reach his goal of $15,000 in donations for the Tour de Cure.

Tour de Cure is a cycling fundraiser event that supports cancer care innovation across B.C. through the BC Cancer Foundation.

Dougherty said he started to get involved in fundraising events for BC Cancer Foundation after his mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

According to Dougherty, the agency offered great help while his mom was being treated for the disease, with different treatments that helped prolong the quality of her life for the time she had left.

“She (my mom) wanted her request before she passed away, that if there was going to be a cancer agency that we were to support in the future years that we (my family) support that one,” he said.

Dougherty said the event made him realize that there is a big community that

have dealt or are dealing with cancer, which inspired him to join.

“Being part of something with that many people and the stories that were told and sharing, you know, similar experiences and realizing that I’m far from the only person that has gone through something like that,” he said

Dougherty reminded that there are always creative ways to be part of something and doing something for great causes like cancer treatments’ innovations and research.

“I work on creative ways to incentivize generosity from others so that we all can play a part in helping, you know, prevent this disease from hitting other people that we care about in the future.”

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WEL COME YOU

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

Ser vice 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

Ser vice 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

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

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Ser vice Time ever y Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave ( The Cadet Hall)

Sunday Ser vice Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Max well St • 250-378-9502

Ser vice Time: Sunday 10:00 am

Brian Dougherty (L) started his cycling journey August 25, in Squamish and was in Merritt on Sunday (August 27).

Photo/Contributed

CLASSIFIEDS

Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday.

To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com

CHRIS STOLLER Inloving memory of

God saw y o u getting tired

W hen a cure was not to be.

So He clos ed His arms aro u nd y o u And whispered , “Come to Me”.

W ith tearful ey es we watc hed y o u

As y o u slowly slipped away.

And tho ug h we love y o u dearly

W e co uld n’t make y o u s tay.

Yo ur golden heart s topped beating

In Loving Memory Rose Marie Moldowan

April 14, 1934 - August 11, 2023

Memorial Service September 8, 2023 at Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church, 12.00 noon, 1950 Maxwell St., Merritt BC

Edna Gladys Garcia “Pat”

December 14, 1942 - August 15, 2023

It is with profound sorrow that we announce our Sister, Aunt, friend Gladys Garcia passed away peacefully on August 15, 2023, aged 80 years.

Survived by her brother Mike Garcia, many nieces & nephews, great nieces, great nephews and many friends and relatives.

She is predeceased by her Mother Julia Moon Garcia. Her Father Alphonse Garcia. Her sisters Mary, Adeline, Margaret Her brothers Frank, Bob, Walter A Celebration of Life will be held on September 9, 2023 at 12pm-4pm at the Legion in Merritt, BC.

Located at 2101 Quilchena Ave. (Old Barber Shop)

Yo ur tired hand s p ut to res t.

God’s broke o ur hearts to prove to us

He o nly takes the bes t from

your loving wife

Sharon

Edward Arthur Morris

“You

Edward Arthur Morris passed away suddenly in Royal Inland Hospital on August 17, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 53 years Nadene (Dean) Morris He was predeceased by his parents, We Morris, mother, Martha Blenkarn, step-father Keith Blenkarn, sister Elaine Behringer, brothers, Richard Morris and Gordon Morris He leaves to mourn: his sister, Carol (Harvey) Kozak, brothers, Clifford Morris, Stefan Morlock, Eldon Morris, Calvin Morris, and many nieces and nephews

Ed was born and raised in Vancouver and at a very early age started delivering the morning Vancouver Province Even at an early age he took time to visit an elderly gentleman who lived alone He left school at an early age and made his way north and eventually ended up in Fraser Lake where he was employed as an assayer at Endako Mines Dean, the school librarian, and Ed met and were married in Cloverdale, where she grew up.

Ed was transferred to Craigmont Mines and was the last person to turn out the lights Ed spent a year in Faro, Yukon. He ended his work life with the City of Merritt and was presented with a plaque from the mayor and council, which read “18 years of exemplary service to the residents of the City of Merritt”

Ed loved sports: baseball, swimming, learning to curl on “natural” ice in Fort Fraser But, the love of his life was badminton. Ed helped teach the children in the Collettville gymnasium Tuesday and Thursday evenings The Merritt Herald reported “Morris is affectionally referred to as ‘Mr Badminton’ in the Nicola Valley A competitive player until the age of 19 while growing up in Vancouver, he has always loved the sport

Despite being a septuagenarian, he can still dazzle on the court with his placement of the shuttlecock, his quick reflexes, and occasional timely smashes.”

He enjoyed coffee with the boys; an excellent conversationalist who was always well informed and loved to talk to people An avid reader, a book a day; the Merritt Library’s circulation numbers will drop. He enthusiastically helped with the cooking and baking, all the while devotedly caring for his wife You will be missed. A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

CURRENT JOB OPPOR TUNITIES

We are currently inviting applications for the position(s) of:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at https://www.makeafuture.ca/bcschools-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.

Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Legal/Public Notices Legal/Public Notices

UNCE

RTI F I E D TE ACHE RS TE ACH I NG ON CALL – M E RRIT T

i n

N o:

5 3

The LNIB Development Cor por ation is seeking qualified individuals interes ting in an appointment to it s Board of Direc tor s The LNIB Development Cor por ation’s Board of Direc tor s will consis t of at leas t t wo elec ted LNIB Member s and three non- LNIB Member appointees Appointment s shall be decided by the LNIB Chief & Council and confir med at the LNIB Development

Cor por ations’ Annual Gener al Meeting scheduled for September 26, 2023

Required Skills and/or Experience to Ac t as a Direc tor for LNIBDC:

• Protec t as set s and provide financial over sight (the abilit y to inter pret / analy ze financial s tatement s and make infor med decisions for a moder ately sized entities)

• Organize s tr ategic planning and monitoring

• Contr ac tual awarenes s and under s tanding (the abilit y to under s tand and inter pret the various legal contr ac t s and agreement s involving LNIBDC and any of it s subsidiar y busines ses)

• Gener al commercial awarenes s of the Fores t and Natur al Resource Indus tries and/or land management in British Columbia

• A gener al under s tanding of the Gover nance role of Board of Direc tor s and their duties and fiduciar y responsibilities

• The abilit y to comfor tably inter ac t with the LNIB Band Council LNIB s taf f executives from various busines ses and cor por ations and senior Gover nment of ficials

• Be willing to ser ve on various commit tees and/or wor king groups

• Availabilit y to at tend Board meetings during “ nor mal” wor king hour s

• Be involved in Board member recr uitment and per for mance evaluation

• Selec t suppor t and review the per for mance of the Gener al Manager

• Respec t and/or an awarenes s of Nlaka’pamux cultur al values and heritage

For more infor mation, please contac t:

LNIB Development Cor por ation’s Gener al Manager Don Gos soo at (250) 315 -9277 or Don Gos soo@lnibdc com

Commencing: A s soon as the appointment has been confir med

Term of Of fice: To be deter mined

Per Diem: $10 0 0/month plus mileage when applic able

Please send your writ ten E xpres sion of Interes t outlining how you meet the above criteria along with your C V or resume to: Don Gos soo@lnibdc com no later than Friday September 8th 2023 4:30 pm

Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society

Employment Opportunity

MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT POSITION

As a Medical Assistant you will be responsible for provid ng administrative support to ensure the efficient operation of the medical office You will support doctors and patients through a variety of tasks related to patient care management, organization, and communication

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Organize and schedule appointments

• Update and file medical records and insurance reports

• Ass st during medical examinations

• Produce and distribute correspondence memos, letters, faxes, and for ms

• Prepare and clean treatment rooms and medical instruments.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Experience as a Medical Assistant would be an asset

• Knowledge of office procedures

• Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize work

• Social perceptiveness and service oriented

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Strong organizational and planning skills

• Proficiency in MS Office and patient management software would be an asset

Competitive salary and full benefits

E-mail Resume and References to: smith.b@schss.com

Towing Merritt Ltd. 2900 Pooley Ave the following vehicle will be auctioned on September 7, 2023 for non payment 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 VIN 1B7HF13Y9VJ514794 Kevin John Kachowski Amount owing: 1,726 80 2019 Ford Mustang VIN 1FA6P8CFXK5183746 Debtor:

Jody Johnson

Amount owing: 3,810 35