Merritt Herald April 25, 2024

Nurses protest staff shortage outside hospital

Nurses calling on Interior Health to do a better job attracting healthcare workers

Nurses rallied at the community garden behind the Nicola Valley Hospital to protest emergency room closures.

Nurses in the B.C. Nurses’ Union (BCNU) chanted “What do we need?” “More nurses!” “When do we need them?” “Now!”

Since Jan. 1, the Nicola Valley Hospital (NVH) has had two closures out of the 24 closures across hospitals under the jurisdiction of Interior Health. In 2023, the NVH suffered from 20 emergency room closures due to staff shortage.

“The nurses and all healthcare staff providing care here at the Nicola Valley Hospital and in other facilities here in the area are coming to work every day, caring for patients, despite unprecedented staffing shortages,” said regional council member Scott Duvall. “In fact, our vacancy in this hospital right now is at about 54 per cent.”

“This isn’t the first rally I’ve been at at this hospital, and what a shame that we have to rally for services that every community should expect to have,” said Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart, thanking the local nurses on the frontline as well as mayor and council.

“I would first of all say ‘thank you’ (to Adrian Dix) for recognizing the fact that we need to do something, we’re looking forward to seeing staffing increased especially in some of our rural facilities,” said a nurse who asked not to be named.

“I think we still need to keep working together, keep inviting BCNU to all of the tables for discussions on how we can improve healthcare, so I would make that request of him,” said the nurse. “And really just have that open dialogue communication, to say, ‘hey, this is the information that you’re hearing from the front line.’”

“I think we need to also make sure that the information that’s coming from the health authorities needs to be questioned, needs to be authenticated, so the information that’s

being provided, the data that we’re basing decisions on, needs to be provided and shared transparently to those people involved and who are affected by it,” the nurse continued.

In March 2024, the provincial government announced a $237 million investment to implement minimum nurse-to-patient ratios.

“In order to implement ratios, there’s a lot of research and data analysis, and really trying to understand what that’s going to look like in practice,” the nurse continued. “The Ministry of Health, in my humble opinion, needs to make sure that they’re a little more eyes on the health authorities and what they’re doing as far as providing data and things like that.”

The rally was attended by representatives from the Lower Nicola Indian Band; NVIT associate dean Ivy McRae; Mayor Mike Goetz and Coun. Wendy Charney; Tegart and Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond; as well as many Merrittonians and drivers passing by, honking their horns in

solidarity.

Nurses, city officials, community members gathered outside of Nicola Valley Hospital to protest on staff shortage. Photo/Kenneth Wong

Schoenborn’s hearing adjourned

The

A hearing for Allan Schoenborn, who killed his three children in 2008, ended with an abrupt adjournment on Wednesday after his lawyer told the British Columbia Review Board he would no longer appear in front of its current panel.

Lawyer Rishi Gill said in an interview that he continues to represent Schoenborn, who was found not criminally responsible for the killings. But his client will need new counsel before the board, which is set to reschedule the hearing.

Gill said he didn’t make the decision lightly. It came after “commentary” from the chair of the review board that he felt was inappropriate, he said.

The chair rejected his request for a brief adjournment, Gill said, and he decided he would no longer continue.

“I didn’t feel that it would best serve Mr. Schoenborn’s interests for me to continue on, given some of the comments that were going back and forth,” he said.

“Would I act for him again next year or (in front of) a different board? Perhaps.”

Schoenborn has been held at the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in Coquitlam, B.C., since 2010, after killing his 10-year-old daughter and two sons, aged five and eight.

He was diagnosed with delusional disorder and told his B.C. Supreme Court

trial he killed his children to protect them from an imagined threat of sexual abuse.

In 2022, the review board granted the director of the psychiatric hospital the discretion to allow Schoenborn up to 28 days of overnight leave. He is barred from possessing any weapons and using any non-approved drugs or alcohol, and he must not have contact with the family members of the slain children.

Gill said his client wasn’t seeking changes to his current privileges on Wednesday.

Dave Teixeira, a spokesman for the children’s family, said the hearing “went off the rails” after the chair of the review board asked a witness from the hospital whether Schoenborn is a danger to children, and the witness said yes.

The remark prompted an “outburst” from Schoenborn, said Teixeira, who attended the hearing via livestream.

Gill felt the board wasn’t treating his client fairly, Teixeira said.

He said the board chair also noted while listening to the testimony that Schoenborn had been involved in at least a dozen aggressive incidents with staff and other patients, information that wasn’t included in a hospital report.

The victims’ family members have “always wanted” Schoenborn’s privileges to be revoked, Teixeira added.

“I’m hoping that (the review board) will revoke his privileges so that

Canadian Press MERRITTHERALD.COM

Allan Schoenborn is shown in this sketch attending a British Columbia Review Board in Coquitlam, B.C. on Thursday March 12, 2020. A hearing for a man who killed his three children in 2008 ended with an abrupt adjournment, shortly after his longtime lawyer told the British Columbia Review Board that he would no longer appear in front of the current panel. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Felicity Don

By Robert Moretti

OPINION

DIXON: Peace in the midst of chaos

BONNIE DIXON

HEALTHY CONVERSATIONS

In our fast-paced world, stress and anxiety can often become overwhelming. Fortunately, there are simple yet effective ways to calm down and regain control of our emotions. Here are five strategies to help you find peace in the midst of chaos:

1. Breathe: It may sound cliché, but taking deep breaths can work wonders for calming your

mind and body. Practice deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing or the 4-7-8 technique. Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of seven, then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat this several times until you feel a sense of calm washing over you.

2. Move: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Take a short walk, do some gentle stretching, or engage in your favorite form of exercise. Movement helps release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can help you shift your focus away from whatever is causing you stress.

3. Change what you are doing: Sometimes, all it takes to

calm down is a change of scenery or activity. Step away from whatever is causing you stress and do something different for a while. This could be as simple as listening to music, practicing a hobby, or chatting with a friend. By shifting your attention elsewhere, you give your mind a chance to relax and recharge.

4. Write it out: Writing can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions and gain perspective on a stressful situation. Take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts and feelings in a journal or on a piece of paper. Writing can help you organize your thoughts, identify patterns, and find solutions to your problems.

5. Turn the challenge around: Instead of viewing stress as an obstacle, try to see it as a

challenge to overcome. Reframe your mindset and focus on the opportunities for growth and learning that come with difficult situations. Adopting a positive attitude can help you approach stress with resilience and confidence.

Incorporating these simple strategies into your daily routine can help you manage stress more effectively and cultivate a greater sense of calm and balance in your life. Remember that finding what works best for you may take some experimentation, so be patient with yourself as you navigate your journey toward peace and relaxation. Contact me for more tips on reducing stress at heartnotes2@gmail. com Bonnie

TEGART: NDP carbon kick-back scheme demands special prosecutor investigation

Serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest tied to the NDP’s CleanBC carbon tax-funded programs are a clear indication an investigation by a special prosecutor is needed. Edison Motors, a B.C.-based

manufacturer of electric logging trucks, went public with concerns that the accounting firm MNP encouraged Edison to use MNP’s application writing service when applying for CleanBC grants. MNP would collect a 20 percent fee based on the amount of the grant awarded. This situation is alarming because MNP is the government’s chosen agency to deciding who gets the grants.

This conflict essentially positioning MNP to profit from its own decisions.

Despite repeated calls from our BC United Caucus to investigate this potential conflict of interest, David Eby’s NDP government chose to continue their pattern of secrecy and lack

of accountability by refusing to investigate the matter.

It took for the issue to go viral on social media before the NDP decided to order an independent investigation.

Following the public outcry, the NDP government conceded to initiate an Auditor General inquiry. Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation Minister Josie Osborne, who was steadfast in refusing to investigate the matter, later claimed proactive measures were taken by her office when the concerns were first brought up. However, this assertion contradicts the delays and reluctance to address the issue openly.

The NDP’s reversal underlines a

lack of transparency and accountability, especially concerning the management of public funds. British Columbians deserve better—they deserve a government that operates openly and responds promptly to serious allegations.

This situation calls for immediate and decisive action.

The BC United Caucus is committed to advocating for greater transparency and has called for the Attorney General to appoint a special prosecutor to delve into the alleged carbon tax kickback scheme and to disclose the complete, unedited MNP contract.

United we will restore British Columbia’s accountability.

JACKIE TEGART VIEW FROM LEGISLATURE

Kenneth Wong REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Yvette Baxter elected city councillor after winning byelection.

After a month’s long campaign, Yvette Baxter emerged victorious in civic byelection.

Baxter won in a landslide victory, gaining 229 votes.

Runners up Peter Coghill received 75 votes, Norma Jean Littleton receiving 30 votes, and Michael “MJ” Phillips receiving 26 votes.

“I think people resonated with my family and community message,” said Baxter. “Hopefully going forward I can really work with the local Indigenous bands and local community and keep us being a prosperous (community), and have a great future.”

Baxter ran on a platform of working closer with the Indigenous bands in the Nicola Valley. “Just talking to them and working together because we use the same resources and we all live in the same communities and I think if we all work together, this community will grow and become a better and brighter place to live.”

Whilst securing an electoral victory, Baxter’s job as city councillor does not officially begin until May 7. “On Tuesday, I’m just coming (to the city council meeting) as a person in the audience, I don’t get into my position until May 7,” said Baxter.

Baxter now faces the challenge of “learning the position and trying to figure out what things have already gone past and what things are still in the works to get past within the council, and working with the other council members and trying to move the city forward.”

To Merrittonians, Baxter says “I am happy to be their voice and I am grateful to be living and working in this community.”

Multi-family residence caught re over weekend

A triplex located at Menzies Street caught fire on Saturday night, April 20. Photo/Kamscan/Twitter

Laísa Condé NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A triplex caught fire at Menzies Street, on Saturday, April 20.

In an email to the Herald, Merritt Fire Chief David Tomkinson said that Merritt Fire and Rescue Department received a call for a residential structure fire at approximately 10:30 p.m., this past Saturday.

“Firefighters arrived at a multi-family residential structure, a 3-plex, already very well-involved in fire,” he said in the email.

The fire chief added that the fire spread throughout the void attic space, making the structure inhabitable. Two families have been displaced and offered assistance through Emergency Support Services.

According to Chief Tomkinson, 13 firefighters were on scene alongside an engine and a ladder truck until 3 a.m. A crew remained on scene to conduct fire watch.

The fire is currently under investigation.

New legal name

From Page 5

Schoenborn can focus on getting better, as opposed to getting out.”

The day before the hearing, the board had rejected an application from Schoenborn to have his new legal name redacted from the board’s decisions. Schoenborn has changed his name, and the new name hasn’t been made public, Gill said.

A review board document shows Schoenborn had also asked that his new name not be published in any legal proceeding without approval from the board.

The document dated April 16 shows the board denied the application, though it said he should be called Allan Schoenborn at Wednesday’s hearing.

Anyone seeking to challenge the decision should notify the board by the end of this month, the document states. If the board doesn’t hear from anyone, its dispositions related to Schoenborn are set to include both his current and former legal name.

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City seeking provincial dollars to recover costs after ER closures

The City of Merritt is asking B.C.’s Ministry of Health to recover costs associated with 19 days of emergency room closures at the Nicola Valley Hospital.

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz told Castanet the request is more about making a point than recovering $89,000.

“The whole idea of this is to bring attention to the fact that there is a cost to our hospitals not staying open, and this is up to the province to fix,” he said.

“This is not up to local governments to fix.”

Earlier this month, Goetz presented a motion that was passed by city council to request the province credit the municipality $34,000 from the $650,000 it pays in hospital district taxes — accounting for the 19 days in 2023 the Merritt ER was inadvertently closed due to staffing issues.

As part of the motion, Merritt is also requesting $55,000 from the province to cover the costs of the fire department covering medical calls while ambulances were transporting people out of town to other hospitals while NVH was closed those 19 days.

“That takes money out of their budget that should be going to fighting fires, but now it’s diverted to cover the cost of our hospital being closed,” Goetz said.

“It’s a form of downloading that we’re looking to get back into their

budget because it’s not a fair situation that we have to have our fire department cover those costs when the hospital goes down.”

Goetz said he feels the answer from the Ministry of Health to cover the bill will be no, because it would set a precedent with all other rural communities that have been experiencing hospital closures.

“But we’re going to go through the process to see if we can actually get something for that,” Goetz told Castanet.

“We haven’t heard anything back, and I don’t expect we will for a while.” Goetz said he’s sure the province will listen to his case, but suspects it will give some reasoning as to why it cannot cover the bill.

“You can’t expect the taxpayers to pay $650,000 and then not get full service for the $650,000,” Goetz said.

The motion was similar to one Goetz brought to the Thompson Regional Hospital District in March, requesting the $34,000 credit be applied to Merritt’s 2024 hospital taxes.

“I have to do this to get the province to come to some way of fixing this problem so it stops,” Goetz told the board, noting other small cities faced similar closures.

“There should be a consequence when your hospital goes down.”

That motion was denied, but the board approved sending a letter to the province asking that it send the City of Merritt the cash.

The TRHD also voted in favour of making the issue a talking point with Minister of Health Adrian Dix at this year’s Union of BC Municipalities Convention.

Goetz said he understood the defeat, but felt compelled to first bring the motion to the TRHD.

“This money has already been paid with the expectation we will get the service,” Goetz told the board.

He said a better model might be to pay hospital taxes at the end of the year and withhold the funds for the days the Nicola Valley Hospital was not open during the year.

Wildflower Bloom Campaign

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Michael Potestio CASTANET

Photo/Castanet file.

Red Cross Canada offers nancial aid

Kenneth Wong REPORTER@ MERRITTHERALD.COM

Canadian Red Cross providing financial incentives for Merrittonians affected by the 2021 flood.

Applications for the 2021 B.C. Floods Residential Mitigation Incentive Program are open until April 30.

Eligible applicants may receive up to $750 for residential maintenance activities such as raising personal belongings onto shelves or into waterproof containers; cleaning out existing backwater valves; testing sump pumps; removing debris; sealing openings where water may enter the home; or purchasing dam bags.

Applicants interested in taking on larger projects that may take more time and planning are eligible to receive up to $4,250 for residential flood mitigation such as installation or replacement of

sump pumps and alarms; installation of backwater valve; replacement of below grade windows or exterior doors; replacement or installation of eavestroughs and downspouts, or installation of flood alarms.

Homeowners, tenants, or community-owned homes with primary residences in Merritt or other communities affected by the flood that experienced minor damage from the 2021 flood are eligible to apply.

Those that wish to apply must make an account on the SM Apply platform or call the Canadian Red Cross at 1-833966-4225 on weekdays between 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST.

Approved applicants must keep receipts or invoices, and fill out an online report for the Canadian Red Cross including a before and after photo of the renovated home to verify flood mitigation activity was completed according to program requirements.

Applicants have until April 30 to apply for the 2021 B.C. Floods Residential Mitigation Incentive Program at https://www.redcross.ca/how-we-help/currentemergency-responses/2021-british-columbia-floods-and-extremeweather/residential-mitigationincentive-program

Applicants with major damage or destroyed primary residence are able to contact a Canadian Red Cross case manager for personalized recovery support by emailing bcfloodrecover@ redcross.ca or calling 1-800-8636582 on week days between 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST.

3 If leaving valuables in a vehicle; hide from sight.

4 Park in a well lit area.

5 Report any thefts, damage or suspicious persons to police

NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING

For workers killed or injured on the job.

APRIL 28

The exhumation of Merritt’s disparaged Chinese workers

work during the spring, where men would work long days digging and clearing trenches for the irrigation channels, only to be dismissed once the system was set up.

Going back to the start of the 20th century, Merritt had a substantially large Chinese population. These people had come from China to escape from rampant poverty, famine, and general horrible economic conditions back in China.

They came to Canada and worked in a form of indentured servitude to build the railway, and after the last spike was driven in Revelstoke, they were laid off in mass. After this, while many did want to return to China, the economic conditions were still so poor that many still decided to stay and take their chances in Canada.

Many of these people came to Canada hoping to one day bring their families to Canada with them, but as time wore on the Head Tax continued to increase before finally in 1923, the Exclusion Act barred anymore immigration to Canada from China, cutting these men off from their families, many of whom they would never see again.

Farms and ranches require a large workforce to operate, and as a result many of the local ranches within the Nicola Valley hired Chinese workers at low rates from Kamloops and brought them here to the Nicola Valley.

There were a few main jobs that these Chinese workers tended to do, the first was being a cook. Many of the ranches employed Chinese cooks during the threshing and haying months, cooking meals in the fields for the rest of the expanded workforce.

These cooks would then usually become unemployed after these months were over. The second main job was to work as an irrigator. This was extremely hard

Ken Toy described these workers as being the poorest of the poor, these men worked for only $25 per month, approximately $300 per month today. Ken Toy noted that even with these poverty wages, they would still send money back to their families in China even if it meant they would starve.

With these periods of short employment on a very low wage followed by unemployment, a number of these Chinese men ended up becoming homeless.

During the Great Depression ‘relief’ was offered to the unemployed, however it did not extend to the Chinese unemployed as the City expected the Chinese population to look after itself. To their credit, they did what they could with what they had, for example, the original Yuen On Lung store was left standing by the Toy family to be used as a homeless shelter.

As Ken Toy described, the combination of heart break, hard labour, inadequate living space, and malnutrition resulted in many of these men dying at a young age.

Many were buried in Pineridge, but without headstones seeing as they did not have enough funds to provide for them.

The Chinese Benevolent Association, a Chinese Canadian non-profit that was started in the late 1800’s in Vancouver, raised money and decided to exhume many of these men and have their bones shipped to their native villages in China where they could be reinterred there.

We are unsure about how often this was done, but the article the headline

In memoriam of thosewho have lost their livesorsuffered dueto WORKPL ACE ACCIDENTS,injuriesand illness, theCit yofMerritt lowers theflag andrenewsour committment to creatingas afeand healthyworkplace. 4

Nine bodies exhumed

From Page 13

below is from notes that this had been done every 7 to 10 years.

The image included is a headline from the December 2 , 1938 edition of the Merritt Herald.

The article noted that nine bodies have been exhumed, including the body of a recently deceased ranch cook, and that they have been cleaned and will be sent to China.

Most of the information for this post came from the quarterly “Profiles of Chinese Canadians in the Nicola Valley” largely written by Ken Toy in 1999.

The Nicola Valley Museum and Archives is open from Tuesday until Saturday from 10am until 5pm, if you have any questions about the history of Merritt or the Nicola Valley please stop on by, give us a phone call, or send us an email.

Lives lost to workplace injuries in B.C.

WorkSafeBC

MERRITTHERALD.COM

The statistics are sobering, the losses are irreplaceable and the commitment to change is ever present.

Last year, 175 B.C. workers died from a workplace injury or disease.

Across Canada, April 28 has been designated the Day of Mourning, a time when workers, families, employers and others come together to remember those who lost their lives due to work-related incidents or occupational diseases.

“The national Day of Mourning on April 28 is a chance to honour and remember the 175 workers in British Columbia who lost their lives last year due to workplace injury or disease — a day to reflect on those we’ve lost, and to renew our commitment to creating healthy and safe workplaces for every-

one,” says Todd McDonald, head of Prevention Services at WorkSafeBC.

Occupational disease remained the single leading cause of death for B.C. workers last year, claiming 93 lives. Occupational diseases are conditions that result from the nature of an employee’s work, caused by exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace: asbestos, silica, solar radiation, welding fumes (cancer); sanitizers (asthma); lead (poisoning) or noise exposure (hearing loss).

WorkSafeBC is committed to engaging with workers and employers to help build a culture of workplace health and safety in B.C.

Employers must ensure their workers’ voices are heard by engaging them in their organization’s health and

See BUILD Page 15

Reduced speed limit signs legally change the posted speed limit on the work zone portion of the highway. By decreasing speedlimits, safety increasesfor roadwayworkers anddrivers –this iswhy fines areoften doubled for speeding violationsinconstruction zones.

In 2017 WorkSafeBC showed over thepastdecade that 15 roadsideworkershad died and 229 had been injured afterthey were hitbyvehicleswhile on thejob.

Message brought to youby

NAITONAL DAY OF MOURNING

Heartfelt guidance to grieving families

Laísa Condé

Last year, 175 B.C. workers died from a workplace injury or disease, and in a city such as Merritt, the only funeral director in town is responsible for arranging the next steps when a loved one passes away.

Angela Texmo, a devoted funeral director at Merritt Funeral Chapel, is the silent guardian of grief and often a beacon of solace and hope during darkest hours.

“It’s an unusual circumstance, not everybody deals with this situation all day, every day, whereas we do,” she said. “Just because I’m comfortable with it and I know the process and what to do, I’m the source for anyone else.”

Each day, Texmo confronts the dualities of her profession with unwavering resolve. She often sees herself in a paradox of familiarity and professionalism, and during many times, she finds herself consoling families she knows immediately.

“It’s hard, it’s not easy at all. I’ve worked here for 11 years and I’ve lived in Merritt for 38 (years). So I know everybody and everybody knows me. If I don’t know the person, I knew their parents or I knew their children. Unless they moved here recently, chances are I have some kind of a connection,” she added.

Yet, with grace and patience, she navigates these emotional minefields, offering a steady hand to guide people who are going through the labyrinth of grief.

“It’s hard to separate the personal emotions from the family situation when I’m meeting with a family, but I’m not being helpful to the family if I don’t concentrate on their needs,” Texmo said. “So you learn how to isolate your emotions and concentrate on the business.”

“There are situations where it does affect me emotionally and I’ve been known to shed a tear with a family when I am sitting with them. I’m not necessarily mourning the loss of the person that they’re here for, I’m hurting for the family member that hurts.”

Texmo’s unwavering commitment to her sacred duty can be described, in her own words, as wholeheartedly heartwarming.

“I was meant to be a funeral director, I didn’t know that. I wish I’d known 40 years ago, but maybe I wouldn’t have appreciated it so much if I started it in my 20s. I think I’m in my element here, this is what I was meant to do,” she added.

In the hallowed halls of Merritt Funeral Chapel, Texmo’s presence serves as a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of despair.

“I feel with them (the families) and I move forward with them,” she added. “I’m the resource. Come to me before, during or after. I’m here if you want to have a funeral, I can be there for a celebration of life or I can just give you guidance.”

From Page 14

safety approach.

Workers can help build a health and safety culture by speaking up about any concerns, asking questions and knowing their rights. This includes the right to a healthy and safe workplace, the right to be properly trained and the right to refuse unsafe work.

Those who may feel unsure about speaking out are encouraged to call WorkSafeBC’s Prevention Information line at 604-276-3100 or 1-888-621-7322. Creating safer, healthier workplaces requires all of us to work together: employers, workers, supervisors, industry associations, labour groups, other stakeholders and WorkSafeBC.

“It can begin with one conversation, one decision, one step in the right direction. It’s those seemingly small changes that can have a big impact,” McDonald says.

Angela Texmo is the only licensed funeral director in Merritt. Photo/Laísa Condé

Here are some reasons why good dental hygiene is important:

Oral pain (such as tender, bleeding gums), infections and missing teeth can affect your ability to eat, talk and socialize. Being unable to eat can affect your nutrition, not to mention your enjoyment of food.

Research now shows that there is a connection between poor dental health and chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Healthy mouth checklist: Are you doing these four things to keep your mouth healthy?

1. Make nutritious food choices, while limiting foods that are high in sugar or acid

Foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Foods high in acid, such as pop, orange juice and lemonade can cause acid erosion of your tooth enamel. This can damage your teeth and make them soft and sensitive.

2. Visit your dental professional regularly

Regular checkups mean your dental professional can clean your teeth and check for signs of oral disease. This can prevent problems or stop small problems before they get worse.

To find a dentist in your area, contact your provincial or territorial regulatory authority or dental association. Many association websites have a dentist locator or dentist directory.

3. Keep your mouth clean by brushing and flossing everyday

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth and tongue twice a day. Don’t forget to floss! When you don’t floss, you miss cleaning a third of your tooth surface.

Check your mouth on a regular basis. If you spot any of warning signs, see your dental professional right away.

4. Avoid tobacco

Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to mouth cancers, gum disease and tooth loss.

My child wants to drink pop with their meals. Is this harmful for their teeth?

Yes. Pop is high in sugar and is acidic, both of which can cause cavities in children. The sugar in pop will sit on your child’s teeth and get broken down by bacteria that will produce acid. This acid may then begin to break down the tooth enamel, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities.

HEALTH MONTH

Instead, offer your children water, low fat milk or fortified plant-based beverage with their meals. Even 100% fruit juice is high in sugar and should be offered only once in a while or not at all.

In between meals, it’s best to drink water most often.

Does sugar cause cavities?

Yes. Bacteria live on our teeth and they feed on sugar (and other carbohydrates) that get stuck to the tooth surface. When you eat sticky, sweet foods like candy and toffee and don’t clean your teeth afterwards, the bacteria start to eat the sugar, which produces acid. This acid may then begin to break down the enamel on your teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities.

If you’re going to eat sugary, sticky foods, eat them with your meals and then brush your teeth. If you can’t brush your teeth, eat an apple or chew a piece of sugarless gum. The saliva you make when chewing gum helps to wash some of the sugar off your teeth.

For oral health and overall health, it is recommended to reduce your intake of foods with added sugars like sweetened beverages, desserts, baked goods, chocolate, ice cream and candy, as well as table sugar, honey, jams and syrups.

Should I be concerned about fluoride in water?

No. Adding fluoride to our tap water has been shown to be the most effective and inexpensive way to offer fluoride protection to a large number of people. Fluoride is a mineral that has been added to our water supply to help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride can also be found in toothpaste, mouthwash and supplements. Research has shown that in places where fluoride is added to the water, there is a decrease in the rates of tooth decay.

How can a dietitian help?

A dietitian can help you plan a nutritious and balanced diet that is low in sugar and good for your teeth. They can offer practical suggestions for choosing foods with less sugar and simple swaps you can make. If your child is a picky eater, they can give you a personalized plan for introducing new foods. Connect with a dietitian today!

Bottom line

Good oral health starts with healthy habits like brushing and flossing, eating nutritious foods and visiting your dental health professional regularly.

Expansion of mental health and addiction support for youth in Merritt, Princeton

Children, youth and families in Merritt and Princeton will benefit from the expansion of mental-health and addiction services.

In a news release published on Wednesday, April 17, the Province has announced that School District 58 NicolaSimilkameen will now join 12 other Integrated Child and Youth (ICY) teams across British Columbia.

According to the release, ICY teams provide mental-health and addiction services to all children and youth up to age 19 and their families residing within the school district boundary.

The services are also provided to those who attend First Nations operated schools, independent schools, alternative school environments or those not in school.

“Services will be offered by clinical counsellors connected to schools, youth substance-use and mental-health clinicians, Elders or workers supporting Indigenous children and youth, as well as family and youth peer supports,” the release says.

In an interview with the Herald, Jennifer Whiteside, minister of mental health and addictions, said it is critical to invest in children and youth mental health and addiction.

“We know that mental health issues are more likely to arise when people are younger, so that investment in early prevention and early intervention is really key, particularly as we’re coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. “We know that the pandemic has increased mental health issues and concerns and anxiety amongst youth.”

Whiteside added the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction is tracking data from the communities and school districts that already benefit from the ICY teams services.

“We’re tracking the evidence very carefully, because this is a new model of providing access to services for youth. And what we’re learning is that it’s really important for kids to only have to tell their story once,” she added. “What we hear from them is that having to try and navigate a complex system where they may have to go to a bunch of different places is a real barrier.”

Gordon Swan, board chair at SD 58 Nicola-Similkameen, said that the district is very pleased to be selected for an ICY team.

“This program will help ensure the success for all learners in our community and support our innovative educational programs today and into the future,” he said in the release.

According to the release, the Province has committed $55 million to implement ICY teams in 20 school districts by 2024 to be operational by 2025. Seven additional communities will soon be announced and also benefit from these services.

Hockey prospects hit the ice at Cents camp

Kenneth Wong REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merritt Centennials hosts camp to recruit new players.

From April 19 to 21, the Merritt Centennials hosted a recruitment camp at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena to recruit new players under the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL).

The Merritt Centennials Spring Camp was open to players born between 2005 and 2009 to showcase their skills and try to clinch a spot on the team.

New Centennials head coach and assistant general manager Wes McLeod is looking for players with good character and technical skills in hockey.

“If you can skate and you can compete, we can find a place for you,” said McLeod. “A lot of kids these days have high end skill, they will do things with a puck that maybe people weren’t able to do 20-30 years ago, but again, finding that high end skater and competitive are two things that are super important.”

The camp saw recruits from all over Canada coming to Merritt for an opportunity on the Centennials’ roster.

Whilst still in transition, McLeod is excited for the Centennials’ future under the KIJHL.

“For me, getting the guys out in the community, it’s going to be super important, we’re going to try to get that done as soon as possible,” said McLeod. “We want our guys out and supporting and volunteering within the community, being at events.”

“In terms of the KIJHL, it’s a great league, it’s been a league that’s been well run for a lot of years,” said McLeod. “It is currently at a good level, but it’s going to take another step as B.C. transitions into the new junior A tier one league that’s fast approaching.”

McLeod hopes to honour the Centennials and their 51-year legacy in the Nicola Valley.

“The history here is unbelievable, I think it’s about joining the history of the program with a vision for the future and that’s what we’re coming in here to do,” said McLeod. “We’re looking to get more local kids, players, from B.C. but even more specific from this area, and we think that’s going to help the legacy here in Merritt as we grow.”

“We’re starting next year in 2024-2025. Over the next couple of years, we’re definitely looking to be competitive, to be good in the community and really embrace the community and get the bat behind the team,” said McLeod. “The fans and the volunteers, and the people here in Merritt, love the Merritt Centennials and we’re looking to re-engage with them and make sure that they know that we’re there to support them as well.”

MSS Ultimate team makes top 10 in B.C.

ultimate team plays regularly.

Merritt Secondary School (MSS) Ultimate team clinches spot at the BC School Sports top 10 rankings for the province.

The MSS Ultimate team secured the tenth spot at the latest provincial ranking, which is based on games played on or before April 16.

“I know for the team as a whole, as soon as they found out they were just so incredibly excited that those rankings came out, that we made the top 10,” said Taylor Larter, coach of the Merritt Secondary School’s Ultimate team.

Larter added that the recognition feels right and feels exactly where they should be.

“I was just blown away because as much as it is coaching, it’s really the players that are putting in the efforts,” he said. “They’re coming to practices, they’re learning as much as they can and just pushing themselves on the field. That’s all them. The top 10 standing is reflective of their effort, which is just incredible.”

According to Larter, a couple of the teams that also are present in the top 10 ranking are teams that the MSS

“I hope we can beat them and knock them down and be a little higher up,” Larter said. “I also think we feel like we have the potential to do quite well this year, because of those top 10 teams, half of them are from the Interior. So, this is no longer a Coast-dominated sport, it’s here. The Interior has some power now.”

Larter hopes that the sport continues to grow in the community and to other grades as well.

“I’m really hoping we can start building the momentum for ultimate frisbee at elementary schools,” he said. “So, it’s my hope to get out there in May and June and just kind of spread the word and get them into it so that we can kind of build it up more.”

He invites everyone in the community to give it a try and see what ultimate frisbee is all about.

“It’s a really fun sport and something really easy. All you need to get started, all you really need for a game is a frisbee,” Larter added. Ït’s really easy to get into. I just would love to see it grow here because I think there’s a lot of potential.”

Laísa Condé

Photo/Kenneth Wong

Photo/Taylor Larter

COMMUNITY

Do you have a community story idea? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing reporter@merrittherald.com.

UNB holds groundbreaking ceremony for new community centre

Kenneth Wong REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Groundbreaking ceremony marks beginning of construction for Quilchena Community Centre in Upper Nicola.

The Quilchena Community Centre was designed by West Vancouver-based architecture firm Lubor Trubka Associates (LTA) which specialises in wood design and construction, with much of their work across B.C. blending design elements from Indigenous and contemporary architecture.

The community centre will be located at 6990 Nicola River Road in Upper Nicola.

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“I’m really happy with the turnout we had today and the support we’ve been shown by the community,” said Chief Manuel. “I think it just is a reflection of the excitement that the community feels around having this opportunity to see, really a world class facility come into our community, it’s the result of a lot of hard work from a lot of people, so I’m really happy.”

‘This building will focus and showcase our culture, our history, our place here, by incorporating our language, our art, our culture into this building’

UPPER NICOLA BAND CHIEF

DANIEL MANUEL

“This building will focus and showcase our culture, our history, our place here, by incorporating our language, our art, our culture into this building,” said Upper Nicola Band Chief Daniel Manuel. “We focused on the importance of including our culture, our ways of being and knowing, so we’re hoping this building reflects that when we see it come up.”

The ceremony was oversaw with food, live music, speeches from community members, and bear dancers.

3D

Chief Manuel is excited to see the opportunities that the new community centre will bring into Upper Nicola, particularly regarding the youth.

“Number one, it’s going to bring us some economic stimulus here to the community and the region,” said Chief Manuel. “The value of the project is over $30 million and a lot of it dealing with off-reserve contractors but a large part of it comes into our community members and finding opportunities for jobs right here at home.”

“I’ve already talked to community members who are moving home to take up opportunities to work here and providing opportunities for our young people to enter into the trades,” said Chief Manuel. “To have this facility here, on our reserve and in the Nicola Valley, I think it’s a real success.”

Construction is set to begin this week and a construction period of 24 months.

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

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1750 Hill Street

Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

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

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

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

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772

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

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC)

1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall)

Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church

1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Service Times: Sunday 10 am

rendering of the new Quilchena Community Centre set to be complete in the next 24 months (Photo/Upper Nicola Band)

JOB POSTINGS

AMA7 SWA7 NURSE

Full-time Permanent(35 hrs/week)

Ama7 Swa7 Nurse is responsible forproviding qualityhome caretoXwisten Clientsthatare referred to the Homeand CommunityCareProgram.

2EARLYCHILDHOOD EDUCATOR POSITIONS

Full Time PermanentPosition

Bridge RiverHead Star t/ Daycareprogram is seek inganindividual to commit to providing high qualitycaretoChildrenaged 0-6 years with interest in work ing in auniqueprogram and ensuring thatthere is use of best prac tice provided during theprogram delivery.ECE Workers onlyneed to apply.

XWISTEN HEALTH RECEPTION

Full-time (35 hours perweek)

Thehealth reception will report to the Health Manager,the successful candidatewill provide support to all the Xwisten-Bridge RiverIndianBand Health Depar tments.

Please submit your CoverLetterand Resume to: Gary Forsyth, Administrator

Bridge RiverIndian Band,P.O.Box 190, Lillooet BC, V0K1V0 Fax: 250-256-7999

Wh il ew ew elc ome all ca ndidat es ,o nly t hos e selec te df or an i nt er vie ww ill be co nt ac te d

DOWN ACROSS

SUDOKU

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must ll each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can gure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE