Merritt Herald December 27 2018

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MERRITT HERALD THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2018 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS

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2018

Year in review

WE WOULD LIKE TO WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY HOLIDAY AND ALL THE BEST IN THE NEW YEAR. Brad & Karen Yakimchuk

BRAD YAKIMCHUK 250-315-3043 Personal Real Estate Corporation

Moving Real Estate BC Ltd.

KAREN YAKIMCHUK Sales Associate 250-315-3076

2 • THURSDAY,

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December 27, 2018

LEGACY

112 1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

250.378.6941

Don Ward 250-315-3503

donwardproperty2@gmail

Melody Simon 250-315-8539

Karen Bonneteau

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

melodyproperty2@gmail.com

Outstanding Agents, Outstanding Results.

250-315-5178 kbonneteau@telus.net

Ray Thompson 250-315-3377 ray@merritthomes.ca

Brenda Thompson 250-315-8377 brenda@merritthomes.ca

Janis Post

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250-315-3672 janis@janispost.com

Contact us for a complete list of listings.

311 Merritt Spences Bridge Hwy

27-1401 Nicola Avenue

2038 Nicola Avenue

1819 Menzies Street

2040/2052 Nicola Avenue

MLS#149112 $99,900 Unique opportunity in a fantastic location!! Clean bright waterfront two bedroom manufactured home located in Guichon Creek Mobile Home Park.

MLS#149016 $139,900 Move in ready, very clean and neat, 2 BR, 2 full BA home in popular Eldorado MHP. New paint throughout, new baseboards, new flooring in the living room, and much more

MLS#149026 $154,900 Highly visible, busy location in the heart of downtown Merritt. High traffic area, 1480 sqft character building with a living area in back. Excellent potential for many uses.

MLS#145850 $155,000 Three bedroom half duplex located on an extra large, 6500 plus sq. ft lot in good location. The home features a new roof, some newer windows on the main level, three bedrooms and 1 bath.

MLS#144808 $160,000 Excellent high earning, turnkey business in the fishing mecca of BC. Fantastic highway exposure, 25 years of repeat international clientele, listing for business only

6601 Monck Park Road

2463 Priest Avenue

1601 Coldwater Avenue

1408 Pine Street

2399 Clapperton Avenue

NEW MLS#147206 $199,000 One acre lake view property located at Nicola Lakeshore Estates, 2.5 hours from downtown Vancouver. Exquisite property with breathtaking views, experience for yourself!

MLS#145499 $199,000 4,600 sqft shop space, cinder block walls, C-3 zoning, located on 6,100 sqft lot with alley access. Excellent space for any number of trades. Current leasehold tenant in place.

MLS#147989 $204,900 Great investment! 2 bedroom home with attached legal 1 bedroom rental cottage in central location. 2017 updates include new windows, doors, light fixtures, kitchen countertops, and more.

MLS#146795 $209,900 This cute little rancher has two bedroom and one bathroom, and is on a massive lot measuring in at over half an acre! A perfect starter home!

MLS#147350 $215,000 Perfect starter/retirement home or possible investment opportunity. 3 bedrooms with spacious rooms and large kitchen. Corner lot and close to downtown, has 1 car garage/workshop.

1802 Houston Street

5985 Beech Road

1417 Pine Street

108-2514 Springbank Avenue

1591 Bann Street

NEW

NEW

NEW

MLS#149074 $237,500 Well kept 3 BR rancher close to schools and downtown.

Master bedroom has an organized walk-in closet. Large level fenced yard, one car garage, new hot water tank in 2017.

MLS#140467 $249,000 Great recreational waterfront property or build your home in the country. Mostly flat with many building sites, shallow well with lots of good tasting water, septic approval.

MLS#148221 $249,000 Great 2 bedroom retirement or starter home! Tidy fenced yard with back lane access, 20 x 27 insulated shop with power. 5 yr old high-efficiency furnace, Pellet stove, and more.

MLS#148982 $349,900 Lovely stand alone 2 bedroom 2 bathroom rancher boasts over 1300 sqft of quality finishing and a 2 car attached garage, all in the premier Nicola Bluffs development.

MLS#146400 $355,000 Nice family home in nice neighbourhood, with 3 bedrooms on the upper level, master bedroom has a large ensuite; also has a 2-car garage and more!

3387 Boyd Road

2190 Blackwell Avenue

106-2514 Springbank Avenue

1711 Bann Street

1570 Chestnut Avenue

NEW MLS#148754 $379,000 Very nice 5 BR 2 BA home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Merritt bench area. New windows, new front porch, new retaining wall in front yard, new hot water tank in 2017 and more!

MLS#147861 $399,900 4 BR 2 BA home in excellent location on a half acre lot. Lots of recent upgrades including new furnace and hot water tank in 2017, new kitchen and appliances 2018.

MLS#146917 $399,900 Lovely stand alone 4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom rancher boasts over 2800 sqft of quality finishing and a 2 car attached garage, all in the premier Nicola Bluffs development.

MLS#148349 $459,000 Spacious 4 BR, 4 BA family home; great garden, new roof in 2015, RV parking. Added financial benefit of a 2 bedroom legal suite with covered patio.

MLS#148959 $495,000 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath open concept luxury home with 10’ ceilings, 1705 sqft. Full 2-5-10 home warranty, Also available MLS 148961, 148964, 148987, 149010.

2076 Coutlee Avenue

1741 Lindley Creek Road

2040 Granite Avenue

920 Coldwater Road

6355 Stagecoach Trail

MLS#144831 $499,900 6,500 sqft downtown commercial space, currently used as bowling alley (think turn-key business!), includes land and parking in the rear.

MLS#148516 $585,000 Developers & Investors take note: Rare R3 acreage available. The lot size is 1.84 acres with medium density residential zoning. Located in the Country Pine Estates development.

MLS#148893 $595,000 Turnkey business opportunity. This well-appointed hair salon is being sold with building and all equipment included. Salon has loyal clientele for hair, tanning, clothing, aesthetics.

MLS#147128 $634,900 Fantastic property on 1.5 acres only minutes from Merritt, 4 bedrooms, a barn and detached shop, 2 paddocks and fully fenced.

MLS#146207 $5,900,000 Unique development opportunity! Existing championship golf course with 37 strata lot development.

Sagebrush Golf Course at Nicola Lake, on 299+ acres.

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

INSIDE

ELECTORAL REFORM

Opinion ---------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------- 17 Classifieds ------------------- 22

Voters reject electoral reform Voters support first-pastthe-post by 61.3 per cent.

Tom Fletcher BLACK PRESS

The B.C. government’s options for proportional representation have been rejected by voters in a mail-in referendum.

Just over 61 per cent of participating voters opted to stay with the first-past-the-post system, reported Chief Electoral Officer Anton Boegman on Dec. 20.

The referendum offered a choice between the traditional firstpast-the-post voting system, essentially a separate election for each of B.C.’s 87 provincial seats, and three variations on proportional representation to make the number of seats match more closely with the party’s share of the provinceThere will be no change in the way B.C. residents elect their provincial representatives, after the results of the referendum on electoral reform failed to garner sufficient support for a system of wide vote. proportional representation. Herald files Opposition critics blasted the result is known.

B.C. Green Party leader turnout of just over 40 per cent is minimum turnout and no regional NDP for giving Attorney General “I campaigned to have a referAndrew Weaver wanted the prova valid response to a proposal to weighting to ensure that urban David Eby the task of developing endum,” Horgan said. “My Green ince to legislate a change without areas in the southwest didn’t decide change the system for at least the the options, rather than a citizens’ colleagues preferred to just implea referendum. B.C. Liberal Party next two provincial elections. assembly as was the case with refer- the issue. ment proportional representation. leader Andrew Wilkinson has “Democracy is about showing Premier John Horgan promoted enda in 2005 and 2009 that offered I wasn’t prepared to do that, and I attacked the referendum, saying it B.C.’s electoral reform options as a up,” Horgan said. “I’m pleased a single transferable ballot system was concocted by the NDP govern- have every confidence in the wisway to improve voter participation. that we got 41-42 per cent voter and were defeated. dom of B.C. voters and will live by turnout for a mid-term mail-in ref- ment and leaves too many quesIn a year-end interview with Black This referendum also differed the decision that they send us.” tions unanswered until after the erendum.”

Press, Horgan said the referendum from earlier ones by having no

YEAR IN REVIEW

The Herald’s top stories of 2018 News highlights of 2018, as chosen by the editorial staff at the Merritt Herald.

5. Brittany Martel’s body discovered on the Coquihalla Highway The circumstances surrounding the death of 27-year-old Brittany Martel, whose body was discovered on the Coquihalla Highway south of Merritt, were as tragic as they were mysterious.

Her body was discovered on July 22, when an accident temporarily closed the highway.

A motorist stepped out of his vehicle to stretch his legs and happened upon Martel’s body approximately 50 kilometres south of Merritt.

See ‘CAUSE’ Page 5

Brittany Martel’s body was found near the Coquihalla Highway, approximately 50 kilometres south of Merritt. The approximate location is marked on the map above in red. The Hay River First Nations woman was 27 years old. Herald files

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4 • THURSDAY, December 27, 2018

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City of Merritt

COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE

CITY

page

YOU’RE INVITED! to meet with Mayor Brown every

Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.,

Regular Council Meeting - January 08, 2019

in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall (second floor), 2185 Voght Street.

Regular Council Meeting - January 22, 2019

Interested citizens are welcome to stop by, say hello and discuss issues and opportunities for the City, its residents and businesses.

If you would like to schedule a particular time to meet with the Mayor please contact Corporate Services at 250-378-8614

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

E DE UIID GU Y G TY VIIT TIIV CT AC A

Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications for the positions of Casual Arena Attendant I.

BE SURE TO PICK UP THE NEWEST CITY OF MERRITT’S

ACTIVITY GUIDE

t t i r r e M cancell

n 20 tum 1918 Aunte r 20 Wi

Features: Fitness Classes, Community Calendar, Aquatic Events, Aquatic Programs, Recreational Facility Info, Children’s Programs, Birthday Parties, Special Ctiy Events, Seniors Programs, etc.

Too many to list here, so be sure to pick up your copy today or check it out at www.merritt.ca

Really great programs get ed because we didn’t know

For complete details, visit City of Merritt website at www.merritt.ca Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing education and qualifications, and proof of required education and licenses will be accepted prior to 4:00 p.m. Friday, January 04, 2019 by: Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Date Posted: December 13, 2018 Posting Expires: January 04, 2019

you wanted to take them!

Please register in advance.

1

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

s ent of Recreation & Facilitie Brought to you by the Departm

NICOLA VALLEY AQUATIC CENTER HOLIDAY HOURS

CITY OF MERRITT HOLIDAY HOURS City Hall will be closed December 24 – January 01, 2019.

Tourism Merritt

Connect with us on our new tourism website and social media. www.tourismmerritt.com • #ExploreMerritt

The City of Merritt would like to wish everyone a Safe & Happy Holiday Season.

Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications for the positions of Casual Arena Attendant III. For complete details, visit City of Merritt website at www.merritt.ca Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing education and qualifications, and proof of required education and licenses will be accepted prior to 4:00 p.m. Friday, January 04, 2019 by: Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Date Posted: December 13, 2018 Posting Expires: January 04, 2019

VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO Add your event and see all other events in Merritt at www.tourismmerritt.com/events For both locals and visitors to discover more about Merritt and great upcoming events in the community!

#ExploreMerritt

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 5

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS YEAR IN REVIEW

Cause of Martel’s death still unclear From Page 3 A member of the Hay River First Nation in the Northwest Territories, Martel had a history of hitchhiking to make her way around the province.

Police told the Herald there were no outward signs of injury on Martel’s body, and nothing to suggest foul play. Merritt RCMP would later deem Martel’s death as non-

suspicious, stating that “no criminality is suspected.” No cause of death was provided, and the investigation was turned over to the BC Coroners Office.

A vigil for Martel was held in Merritt in the weeks following her death.

It was a stark reminder of the long list of deaths linked to missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada.

Coldwater band Chief Lee Spahan spoke at a press conference following the decision by the Federal Court of Appeal. Herald files

4. First Nations win in Federal Court of Appeal A story with national implications found its roots in Merritt, as two local First Nations bands were a part of a significant court decision which overturned the National Energy Board’s approval of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project.

Both the Upper Nicola Band and the Coldwater band were named in the case which appeared before the Federal Court of Appeal in August. The panel of three judges deemed that the National Energy Board’s review was too flawed to be relied upon in the approval process.

A key part of the ruling stated that the federal government had approved the project without adequately consulting with First Nations communities along the route — including the Upper Nicola Band, and the Coldwater band.

“Right from the beginning, we always said Chief Lee Spahan water is life. Water is sacred,” said Coldwater Coldwater Band Chief Lee Spahan, whose band had staged protests at a route hearing in Merritt earlier in the summer. ‘They can say they consulted, but they never ever, ever got our consent.”

In May, the project and all its assets were purchased by the federal government for $4.5 billion in an effort to push the project along. But the federal court decision put the pipeline project in limbo.

Years of experience working in restaurants and kitchens around Vancouver have led chef Don Barron back to the Nicola Valley — a place where he’d spent his summers at the family cabin on the lake.

Nowadays, Barron doesn’t spent his time lounging by the lake. You’d be more likely to find him cooking up a storm in the kitchen of the Grand Pub and Grill, where he has been the driving force behind the restaurant’s recently updated menu.

Since starting in the kitchen last September, Barron’s culinary skill and creativity have been on display at beer tasting and wine tasting events, which have featured specialty menus full of dishes you might not expect from your neighbourhood pub.

“It seems like the community really likes to do things like that,” Barron told the Herald. “It’s fun seeing what will work with customers and what won’t.”

Trained at the Pacific Institute for Culinary Arts, Barron described his signature style as “stick to your ribs, comfort food” cooking, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and making everything from scratch.

It is a style that has earned rave reviews from customers sampling new menu items like the pork belly or bao buns. Tickets for an upcoming wine tasting event in January are already sold-out.

And while the menu for the tasting has yet to be finalized, Barron said he’ll be using as many locally-sourced ingredients as possible while giving locals the chance to taste something truly unique in Merritt.

In the immediate future, Barron is looking forward to unveiling a few fresh dishes at the Grand’s New Year’s Eve celebrations and continuing to shake things up in the local culinary scene. Meanwhile check out our December Fresh Sheet of Entrees that you can choose from every night.

Your Hometown Hospitality Specialists

Sunday: 10AM to 11 PM • Mon-Thurs: 11AM to 11PM Fri-Sat: 11AM to 1PM

www.facebook.com/GrandPubGrill/ 250-378-4618 • 2099 Garcia St., Merritt, BC

6 • THURSDAY,

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December 27, 2018

VIEWPOINT EDITORIAL

Horgan wraps on 2018 Here are excerpts from Tom Fletcher’s year-end interview with Premier TOM FLETCHER John B.C. Horgan.

For the full VIEWS text see www.merrittherald.com.

TF: In your new climate plan, is the intention really to phase out natural gas for home heating?

JH: The intent is to decarbonize our economy, absolutely. We’re now in a position to export natural gas to other jurisdictions after the final investment decision by LNG Canada, the largest private sector investment in Canadian history. I’m proud of that, and we’re going to continue to meet our targets.

TF: You embraced Christy Clark’s argument that B.C. gas can displace coal in Asia, but emissions from that operation here will be significant.

Can electric cars and solar panels on houses really make up for that?

JH: We need to electrify our economy. That includes our industrial activity.

TF: The opposition leader, Andrew Wilkinson, is concerned this is too sweet of a deal.

JH: I disagree. We sat down with investors and said, where are we competitive and where are we not? They came back and said, ‘you’re charging us more for electricity than you are other industrial sectors. You’re charging us more for income tax than any other investor. That’s not fair.’

We were able to conclude an agreement that will see $23 billion come to the province over the life of the project. I’d say mission accomplished.

TF: The Greens don’t want LNG exports.

See ‘HORGAN’ Page 7

Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com

A triumph for democracy in Sri Lanka?

You could write a heart-warming fairy-tale about the turbulent events in the island nation of Sri Lanka in the past two months. It would involve a conniving president who GWYNNE DYER abruptly and illegally The international dismisses the elected STAGE prime minister, and replaces him with a corrupt and blood-soaked former despot who was the president’s old boss.

The despot, now claiming to be the real prime minister, tries to strengthen his position by offering members of parliament jobs as ministers in his new government. If enough accept, he would have a majority in the parliament and could claim to be sort of legitimate.

But most of the MPs turn down the political bribes on offer, and parliament twice votes to reject his claims.

Finally, after 50 days of chaos, the judges of the Supreme Court say that the president has acted illegally and the ex-despot can’t claim that he is prime minister. At this point the despot resigns and the president grudgingly ‘re-

Sales Associate Michele Siddall sales2@ merrittherald.com

MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

appoints’ the legitimate prime minister. Virtue triumphs, and joy is unconfined. Maybe they even live happily ever after.

It’s an engaging tale, and the basic outlines are true, but in the real world the historical and social context that surrounds the events changes the tone of everything.

‘‘

‘Tamils have been in Sri Lanka for at least 2,000 years, but the Buddhist majority tends to see them as alien...’

Sri Lanka is only ten years away from the end of a brutal civil war that lasted for a quarter-century, and the ‘despot’ is the man who won it by being more brutal than anybody else.

His name is Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The war was about race and religion. Most

Editor Cole Wagner newsroom@ merrittherald.com

ranite Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241

Reporter Dara Hill reporter@ merrittherald.com

of Sri Lanka’s people speak the Sinhalese language and identify with the Buddhist religion.

A minority several million strong, concentrated in the north and east, speak Tamil and are mostly Hindu in religion (with a significant Christian minority). Tamils have been in Sri Lanka for at least 2,000 years, but the Buddhist majority tends to see them as alien and even as newcomers.

The Tamils did well under British colonial rule, when most Buddhist Sinhalese refused to collaborate with their new political masters.

There was revenge-taking after independence, when Buddhist-dominated governments removed the official status of the Tamil language and imposed restrictions on higher education for Tamils. There were even anti-Tamil pogroms.

Buddhist intolerance towards non-Buddhist minorities is not unique to Sri Lanka, as the Rohingya minority in Burma can readily attest, but in Sri Lanka the Tamil minority was big enough to fight back. It did so, starting in 1987, in a guerilla and terrorist war that sought an independent Tamil state in the north and east of the island.

See ‘FAIRY TALES’ Page 7

Office manager Ken Couture classifieds@ merrittherald.com

Fax (250) 378-6818

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 7

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OPINION

Fairy tales preferred From Page 6

Premier John Horgan in his B.C. legislature office, Dec. 13, 2018. Arnold Lim/Black Press

Horgan predicts surplus From Page 6 JH: And I said we needed to fit the LNG development within our climate plan, and we have been able to achieve that, with the help of Dr. Weaver and the Green caucus, as well as the B.C. Business Council. It’s not B.C. warming, it’s global warming, and we all need to get on board with this.

TF: The wait continues for ride hailing.

JH: But there is now legislation in place for it to happen. The B.C. Liberals had five years to do that and did not.

We had 16 months and we’re underway. Next year when we do this interview, we can hail a ride hailing company and we can sing karaoke in the back of the car.

We wanted to make sure that the existing industry had a transition period and that the rules were the same for both.

That means a class four driver’s licence.

Some argue that’s a step too far, but the

‘‘

had a criminal record check, and that they are fully insured. The travelling public is in the front of our mind.

TF: 2019 is shaping up as a difficult year for employers. A lot of them are looking at

‘We forecasted a modest surplus in this fiscal year. We’ve seen consumer confidence.’

travelling public wants to be confident that the person picking them up has been trained to drive a vehicle and carry a person, that they have

John Isaac

250-378-1586

Johnisaac@telus.net

www.realestatemerritt.com

Ph: 250-378-6181 F: 250-378-6184

www.royallepage.ca/merritt 1988 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC

M E R R I T T

— B.C. Premier John Horgan

continuing to pay some Medical Services Plan premiums and a hefty new payroll tax. With a billion-dollar surplus, was that necessary?

JH: The surplus wasn’t forecast. We forecasted a modest surplus in this fiscal year. We’ve seen consumer confidence. And that means small business operators, who were paying premiums themselves, and other families, being the only province in the country that was imposing this tax on individuals. So we’re going to eliminate that by the end of the coming year.

In the interim, those very businesses that are asking for more child care, asking for housing affordability so they can retain employees, are going to get those services.

Tom Fletcher is B.C. legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press Media. Email: tfletcher@ blackpress.ca

Up to 100,000 people died in the war, which ended with an orgy of killing (40,000) in the final five months of battles in 2009. Mahinda Rajapaksa was the president who directed those battles, in which Tamils trying to surrender were often killed, and he emerged from the war as a national hero.

With his populist, nationalist style making him a favourite with the Sinhalese masses, he seemed set for a very long run in power. His government continued to torture and ‘disappear’ opponents, and his family grew rich from corrupt deals. But in 2015 one of his cabinet ministers, Maithripila Sirisena, defected from the government, ran against him for the presidency – and won.

To his credit, Rajapaksa accepted his defeat. Sirisena found a new ally in Ranil Wickremesinghe, whose business-friendly United National Party had won a majority in parliament, and appointed him as prime minister. However, the new allies had little in common and estrangement between them grew.

The key issue that broke the alliance was trade: Sirisena preferred to make deals with China, Wickremesinghe with nearby India. On Oct. 25 Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe (illegally) and appointed Rajapaksa as prime minister instead.

Wickremesinghe pointed out that Sirisena didn’t have the power to do that and barricaded himself into Temple Trees, the prime minister’s official residence. Rajapaksa couldn’t get enough members of parliament to switch sides. They voted twice to remove Rajapaksa, so Sirisena dismissed parliament and called new elections.

That was illegal too, and the struggle continued until, last week, the Supreme Court ruled that Sirisena could not dissolve parliament. At that point Rajapaksa resigned, and on Monday an angry Sirisena grudgingly swore Wickremesinghe back in as prime minister.

An encouraging outcome, in which parliament, the courts and the general population behaved better than anybody expected, but of course the story is never really over.

Sirisena can constitutionally dismiss the parliament fifteen months from now, and Rajapaksa may well win the next election. Meanwhile Wickremesinghe’s government may be almost paralyzed, because relations between Sirisena and him are totally poisonous.

The fairy-tale is to be preferred whenever possible.

Gwynne Dyer’s new book is ‘Growing Pains: The Future of Democracy (and Work)’.

Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com

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Are you pleased with the result of the referendum on electoral reform?

PREVIOUS QUESTION Will you be making a New Year’s resolution for 2019?

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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, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less.

Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

John, Debbie, James, Joshua, and Tashanna Isaac would like to wish all our friends and clients a

Merry Christmas Season.

8 • THURSDAY,

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December 27, 2018

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS YEAR IN REVIEW

3. Merritt opts for change in civic election From all of us here at Norgaards Redi Mix, thank you to all of our clients and friends this past year.

We look forward to serving you in the New Year!

Flanked by members of the RCMP, the new council was sworn in on Nov. 5. (Back row) Tony Luck, Adam Etchart, Travis Fehr and Melvina White. (Front row) Mike Bhangu, Mayor Linda Brown and Kurt Christopherson. Herald files

With only two councillors choosing to seek re-election, it was always clear that the municipal elections of 2018 would bring about a significant change in Merritt. But few could have predicted the overwhelming turnover that was announced the evening of Oct. 20.

Linda Brown moved up from her spot on council to the mayor’s seat, garnering more than double the amount of votes cast in favour of incumbent Neil Menard.

2. Judge rules ranch illegally blocked access to local fishing lakes A years-long dispute between the Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club and Douglas Lake Cattle Company came to a close — at least temporarily — after Justice Joel Groves delivered his judgement in B.C. Supreme Court in Kamloops.

Groves ruled in favour of the club, stating that the Douglas Lake Cattle Company had illegally blocked public access to Minnie and Stoney Lakes.

He also called out the provincial government for decades of inaction despite findings by provincial officials as far back as 1996 that the ranch’s actions were illegal.

Shortly after the ruling came down, Rick McGowan of the fish and game club returned to Minnie Lake, where a gate erected by the

Meanwhile, Kurt Christopherson was the lone member of council to be elected for another term. Christopherson, along with Tony Luck who had previously served as a councillor in Mission before moving to Merritt, were the only two candidates with experience to be elected.

Learning on the job will be a must for Adam Etchart, Travis Fehr, Mike Bhangu and Melvina White, as the new council has already moved swiftly to part with

ranch was, at last, unlocked.

While the decision took months of court time, the battle over public access to lakes surrounded by private land is far from over.

The ranch still has the opportunity to appeal Groves’ decision.

Shawn Boven, the former chief administrative officer for the City of Merritt. The trial by fire will continue in the coming months, as the group looks to navigate the city’s annual budgeting process, undertake a comprehensive services review and initiate a search for a new CAO. Oh and did we mention flood mitigation?

The new mayor and council were elected with an overwhelming mandate for change — now we will see how they deliver on that promise.

Rick McGowan of the local fish and game club. Herald files

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During the Holiday Season more than ever, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our progress possible. And in this spirit we sincerely say Thank You and Best Wishes for the holiday season and a Happy New Year!

From all of us at Dentistry@Merritt

From all of us at

Happy Holidays!

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DENTISTRY @ MERRITT 2731 Forksdale Ave., Merritt 250-378-4888

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 9

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS LOCAL EDUCATION

School District 58 beats graduation records Jackie Tegart, MLA

Fraser-Nicola

Happy New Year! #2-2152 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC PH: (250) 378-8831 TF: 1 (877) 378-4802 High school completion rates across School District 58 are up nine per cent from 2016-17, which was the district’s previous record year. Herald files

Local graduation rate for aboriginal students 13 per cent higher than provincial average.

Dara Hill THE MERRITT HERALD

A record percentage of students in School District 58 received their high school diploma in 2018.

The district had a six-year completion rate of 83 per cent for all students in 2017-18.

That is a nine per cent increase from last year’s rate of 74 per cent — the district’s previous record.

Compared to students across B.C., the district’s 2017-18 rate for all students is on par with the provincial average — 84 per cent.

The average completion rate for all students has climbed by almost 10 per cent provincewide since 1999-2000.

SD 58 beats provincial average for indigenous graduates Six-year completion rates for local aboriginal students saw a huge spike in 2017-18, climbing to a record 82 per cent. The rate has steadily climbed since 2013-14, when the

portion of the credit.

“There has been a lot of contributing factors, no doubt about it, but one that comes to mind is certainly the focus we have on each individual student right now, and I am really proud of the work that our staff across all the schools are doing in relation to knowing each student, understanding what they need and doing their best to support them. And I believe that is making the difference.”

The one group that didn’t see a higher completion rate this past year was students

graduation rate was 58 per cent.

Even for the province, 69 per cent represents the highest completion rate for indigenous students in nearly 20 years. The rate has increased by over 30 per cent since 1999-2000, according to B.C. government records.

“We are very proud of those results,” said SD 58 superintendent Steve McNiven, who added staff deserve a good

with special needs. The completion rate with students with special needs dropped to 51 per cent from last year’s record high of 58 per cent.

“The trajectory with students with special needs has gone in the right direction but there is a gap there between students who are designated [special needs] and students who aren’t,” said McNiven.

“When we think about equity and the importance of success for all students, we looked at that gap and said to ourselves ‘We’ve got more work to do.’”

Mary’s Corner Cafe & Catering Happy New Year to all my present and future customers.

I look forward to serving you in my new location.

Wishing you all the best in 2019.

From Mary, Dave and staff.

250-378-6693

1950 Garcia St.

Jackie.Tegart.MLA@leg.bc.ca

NVCL would like to wish a

HAPPY NEW YEARS to our staff and the community!

Best wishes to my domestic and overseas customers.

All the best in 2019!

Parm Sahota

10 • THURSDAY,

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December 27, 2018

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS YEAR IN REVIEW

1. Flood waters force locals to leave homes

(Above) Volunteers worked to protect homes in Lower Nicola as Guichon Creek breached its banks for the second time in two years.

(Right) A lone green remains above the water line at the Merritt Golf and Country Club. Herald files

Homes and businesses in the Nicola Valley were still recovering from flooding in 2017 when water began pouring into Nicola Lake, signalling that another year of ‘unprecedented’ flooding events were set to arrive in the region.

Residents in Lower Nicola once again found their access route to Merritt cut off, as Guichon Creek overwhelmed the Ten Mile Bridge, despite crews working around the clock to reopen the road.

There was concern that 2018 would be a repeat of the 2017 flood

season. Unfortunately, it was much worse.

Tributaries flowing into Nicola Lake overwhelmed areas in Upper Nicola’s Quilchena reserve. The water caused hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of damage to local golf courses, while seniors living at the Nicola Meadows apartment complex were evacuated from the premises, as access for emergency vehicles became precarious.

And while experts maintain that the past two years have been outliers when it comes to flooding in the region, back-to-back

years of high water forced the issue to be front and centre during the municipal elections in the fall.

But even during catastrophic conditions, there were moments of levity. Countless Merrittonians donated their time and a little elbow grease to fill sandbags for residents living in the flood plain. Local businesses chipped in, donating snacks and supplies to the volunteers to keep them going.

Many of the newly elected members of council — and the mayor — pledged to act quickly to stem

the damage that could result from another season of flooding in the Nicola Valley. But with the clock running out on 2018, and the spring melt once again approaching, it remains to be seen what kind of solutions will be presented in the coming months.

Wishing all our customers the best of the season.

Thank you for your continued support Local Artisans One-of-a-kind Gifts

e artisa inctiv t s i ad

n run gallery since 198

Ph: 250.378.0813 2074 Quilchena Ave www.creativecompany.ca

Happy New Year from all of us here at Nicola Valley Radiator.

Best Wishes for 2019.

Stoyoma Dental Clinic staff would like to take this opportunity to THANK all of our patients for their continued support throughout this past year. We look forward to seeing you again in 2019 and looking after all of your dental needs.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year New Patients are always welcome

Ph: 250-378-5877 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-4:30 pm 2088 Quilchena Ave (Beside the Royal Bank)

We look forward to serving you in the New Year!

No heat?

9

Try Flushing BEFORE REPLACING

2775 Marian Avenue, Merritt, B.C.

250-378-1366

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 11

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CENTURY 21 Moving Real Estate ®

Dec. 27, 2018 - Jan. 9, 2018

BC LTD.

250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100

#102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8

www.century21.ca/movingrealestate BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOME

FEATURE HOME

1830 1ST AVENUE Appealing family home in good location, is move-in ready with 2 bedrms up and 2 down, oak kitchen with gas stove, fridge, DW & microwave included. This home has had some renovations including roof, new furnace & HW tank in 2018 and flooring downstairs. Large 13x27 covered deck.

A handyman will enjoy the workshop in the basement. RV parking. The back yard is nicely landscaped with a ground level patio & 2 storage sheds.

#3070 $384,900 6433 MONCK PARK ROAD

Build your dream home on this 1 acre view lot in Nicola Lakeshore Estates with 180 degree views of the lake and valley. Great lake for swimming and boating. In area of high end homes.

#3069

$155,000

#17, 1749 MENZIES ST.

2397 CARRINGTON ST

#3015

$230,000

1937 MERRITT AVE.

Good starter or investment home. Great neighbourhood, close to shopping, arena & pool. Fenced yard with single garage.

Basement has second living quarters for your inlaws.

#3020 $219,000

BUYING A HOME?

Beautiful 2.17 acres with 3 bedroom rancher with full basement completely finished. Has large wrap around deck, double garage and is next door to a park.

In final stage of subdividing.

#3062

$692,500

6348 MONCK PARK ROAD

NEW 3 bedroom townhome with 2 pce powder room on main, gas F/P in open concept living room, kitchen & dining area. All appliances included. This end unit has a larger fenced yard.

MERRITT DRY CLEANING

1 acre waterfront lot on Nicola Lake. Build your dream home or vacation getaway . Land has gentle slope to waterfront. Great location for many water sports and close to Monck Park Provincial Park. Water & sewer to lot line.

#3071

$475,000

#29A, 254 HWY. 8

2 bedroom mobile home in Lower Nicola, that’s move-in ready! Has new laminate flooring, nice kitchen with island & skylight.

The bathroom has separate shower plus large soaker tub.

#3017 $79,900

Established and well maintained Dry Cleaning & Coin Laundry, a turnkey business. Concrete block building with electrical upgrade. Lots of parking.

Room for growth. Great opportunity for a family business.

#3046 $499,000 1809 MENZIES ST.

3 bedroom half duplex in good area. Has newer roof, large kitchen with eating area and big living room. Lane access. Currently rented to long term tenants. Rented at $900 per month.

#3055 $169,900

2749 PEREGRINE WAY

New custom executive home on the Bench with breathtaking views. Large open concept floor plan with designer kitchen. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, gas F/P. Includes appliance package. GST applies

#3059

Whether you are a first-time buyer or a repeat buyer, your mortgage needs are unique. Talk with your financial institution and get pre-approved. This means that your lender will look at your finances to establish the amount of mortgage you can afford and how much of a down payment will be required.

Once you know your price range, make a list of what you require. You need to think about your needs both now and in the future.

Finally, call one of our knowledgeable realtors to assist you in finding the home that right for YOU and YOUR FAMILY!

$650,000

Spius Creek Estates

Grandview Heights

2760 PEREGRINE WAY

Located Off Petit Creek Road

RESIDENTIAL VIEW LOTS

Prices Starting at $199,000+GST

Prices Starting at $89,000 + GST

New executive family home in very desirable location on the Bench with fabulous views. 3 bedroom home with 5 pce ensuite. Designer kitchen with quartz counters. Covered deck off dining room. Double garage.

Approx. 10 acre lots located just 15 minutes west of Merritt in beautiful Sunshine Valley. Stunning view of the valley and some lots are river front.

Disclosure Statement available. Call for more #2990 details.

Fully serviced residential lots with fantastic views of the Nicola Valley and surrounding mountains.

Choose your lot, bring your plans & start building your future! Close to shopping.

#2894

#3060

$750,000+ GST

#102-2840 Voght St., Merritt, B.C. - 250-378-6166 - Toll Free: 1-877-841-2100

12 • THURSDAY, December 27, 2018

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THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 13

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Century 21 Moving Real Estate BC Ltd. Doug Beech (Owner) 378-7392

Don Gossoo Managing Broker

250-378-6166 • Fax: 378-4344 or Toll Free: 1-877-841-2100

Brad Yakimchuk

Melonie Ivanic 778-803-6554

Karen Yakimchuk 315-3076

Personal Real Estate Corporation

315-3043

#102 - 2840 Voght St., Merritt, BC

www.century21.ca/movingrealestate 1830 1ST AVE

6344 MONCK PARK ROAD

1363 GARCIA STREET

2749 PEREGRINE WAY

3001 HILTON DRIVE

2397 CARRINGTON ST

New executive family home on the Bench with views. 3 bedrms, 2 baths, designer kitchen with quartz counters, gas F/P in living room, 5 pce ensuite & a full unfinished basement. GST applies.

Cute and cozy 2 bedroom home in good area, close to shopping. Huge kitchen, laminated floors, woodstove, jet tub in 4 pce bath. Fenced yard, fruit trees and a garden area. Great for seniors or starter home.

New custom executive home with 3 bedrms on the main, large open concept with designer kitchen, quartz counters & soft close doors. The great room has great views from large windows. GST applies.

Newer 3 bedroom, 2 bath rancher with a fully finished basement. Features 9 ft ceilings, great open floor plan with large kitchen with island, laundry on the main & 2 bedrm inlaw suite.

3 bedrm rancher on 2.17 acres with fully finished basement. Oak kitchen cabinets with island. Cozy F/P in living room. Basement has rec. room, gym area, hot tub room, den & office. Large wrap around deck.

#3064 $489,500

#3062

ED

Appealing family home with 2 bedrms up & 2 down, oak kitchen, & HW floor upstairs. Renos over the years include roof, new furnace & HW tank, windows & flooring downstairs.

Large covered deck. RV parking.

#3070 $384,900 449 DODDING AVE.

Spectacular log home on 1.22 acre on Nicola Lake. Has over 3600 sq.ft. on 3 levels, 3 bedrms, 5 baths, vaulted ceiling with rock F/P overlooking the waterfront. Large wrap around deck. Double garage with bonus room above.

$1,475,000

#3060

$750,000

D L O S

Lovely well kept 3 bedroom home on 0.37 acre corner lot in Lower Nicola. Home features extra wide hallways, bright cheery kitchen, open concept. Great backyard with covered deck & RV parking.

#3058

$377,000

Nicely kept fenced yard with lane access. 3 bedroom half duplex with newer roof, large kitchen with eating area and living room on the main.

Currently tenanted.

#3054

$169,900

2643 QUILCHENA AVE.

1809 MENZIES STREET

#107, 2514 SPRINGBANK

Great starter home or investment property, with second living quarters in basement. Has fenced yard and 1 car garage. Close to amenities and shopping.

2 bedroom, 1 bath home with 20x14 storage shed/shop on a totally fenced lot. Will need work. Close to elementary school.

3 bedroom half duplex in good area with lane access and newer roof. Has large kitchen with eating area and a big living room. Buy as rental unit or perfect for first time buyers.

New 2 bedroom strata unit in newer development. Master bedrm has W/O closet & 5 pce ensuite. Open concept kitchen with quartz counters. Gas F/P in large living room.

Double garage. GST applies.

#3020 $219,000

#3067

#3055

$120,000

1425 A&B HOUSTON ST.

$169,900

2770 PEREGRINE WAY

D L O S

#3063

$349,900

#17, 1749 MENZIES ST.

Beautiful bright & airy rancher with 1400 sq.ft. on the main and 1400 in fully fin.

Basement. 10 ft ceilings in living room, open kitchen/dining room, 2 bedrms up, 2 down & huge rec.room.

Investment opportunity to buy this affordable duplex with 2 full rental incomes or live in one side & rent out the other. Each side has 2 bedrms & 4 pce bath on main plus 2 bedrms & storage in bsmt.

Newly built 5 bedroom, 3 bath home with open

room downstairs. Double garage. GST applies.

This 3 bedroom townhouse with 2 pce powder room on main, open concept kitchen/living room, kitchen with nook & a breakfast bar.

Gas F/P, skylights, BI vac. Nice end unit with bigger fenced yard.

#3040 #359,900

#3049

#3037 $750,000

#3015 $230,000

2740 GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS

2849 PEREGRINE WAY

2779 EAGLE CRES.

Amazing view from this 7039 sq.ft. lot. Close to shopping and restaurants. In area of quality built homes and growing subdivision.

Bring your plans and start building your dream home.

#2407 $75,000

$299,000

2850 PEREGRINE WAY

Residential building lot of 6717 sq.ft. with city services and fantastic views of the Nicola Valley. Close to shopping, coffee shop and highway. Bring your ideas. #2908 $94,000

concept. 2 bedrms up, master on the main & 2 more down. High quality finishing. Large rec.

Located in newer developing subdivision, this lot of 6200 sq.ft. has amazing views of the Nicola Valley and is close to all amenities.

The perfect place to build your dream home.

#3066 $69,900

#3068 $189,900

#3059

$650,000

1801 MENZIES ST

1937 MERRITT AVE

#102, 2514 SPRINGBANK

1875 QUILCHENA AVE

NEW

UC RED

#3008

2760 PEREGRINE WAY

Large residential lot of 9558 sq.ft. is fully serviced with great views of the surrounding mountains and the Nicola Valley. Close to shopping and college. #2907

$100,000

Deanna Palmgren Licensed Property Manager

2659 JACKSON AVE.

We’d like to take a moment to say “Thank You” for your business. Your continued trust, support and confidence is greatly appreciated. Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Holiday Season. We look forward to working with you in the New Year.

Newer 3 bedroom rancher in good area & close to school. Master bedroom with 5 pce enusite. Covered front deck, fenced yard with small storage shed/ workshop in back.

#3041

$309,900

#29A, 254 HIGHWAY 8

Two bedroom mobile home in Lower Nicola MH Park, is move-in ready. New laminate flooring in living room, hallway & master bedrm. Nice kitchen with island & skylight. 5 pce bath with soaker tub. Covered deck.

#3017

$79,900

1463 COLDWATER AVE

Affordably priced investment – Side by side duplex with 2 bedrms, bathroom, kitchen, living room and 100 amp per side. Has fenced backyard. Close to shopping.

#3021 2725 PEREGRINE WAY

SEVERAL LOTS

ON THE BENCH TO CHOOSE FROM. BRING YOUR PLANS!

Located in Grandview Heights subdivision, this is one of the finest lots of 6297 sq.ft. with amazing views of the Nicola Valley. Close to shopping & amenities.

Start planning your future today! #2950

Kim McLean Assistant

$79,900

$692,500

3004 MILLER COURT

1862 sq.ft. rancher to be built, with 1430 sq.ft. on the main and 432 sq.ft. above. Open plan concept, quartz counters in kitchen, gas F/P in large great room. Laundry & master on main. GST applicable.

#3050

$429,900

For a Market Evaluation on your home, give us a call.

Spectacular views from this 7470 sq.ft. lot.

Building a house in this development is a great investment. Services are at the lot line. See Listing Realtor for the Developers Disclosure.

#2819 $89,000

#3045 $359,900 1475 COLDWATER AVE.

Side by side duplex with 100 amp per side.

Each side has 2 bedrooms, kitchen, living room and bathrm plus a fenced backyard.

Close to corner store. Good investment property. Some renovations being done.

#3022

1653 LINDLEY CRK RD

Nice building lot on Lindley Creek Road, in a growing newer subdivision.

The natural slope of the land will allow for a walkout basement with a rancher type look from the front yard. #2838

Rick Baker Assistant

$61,000

$169,900

2719 PEREGRINE WAY

Great building lot of 7825 sq.ft. in Grandview Heights subdivision, fully serviced with great views of the valley and mountains. #2894

$159,900

2797 GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS

This 3 bedroom home is a custom 3 level split with open concept, large kitchen, new HW tank and HW boilter for heating system. Master bedrm has jetted tub & W/I closet.

Large rec.room. Lots of parking.

Check out our website for full details and photos on all of our properties.

$100,000

2731 PEREGRINE WAY

Bring your ideas for this 6340 sq.ft. building lot on the Bench. City services to lot line, close to amenities and great views of the valley.

#2895 $89,000

2773 PEREGRINE WAY Residential build lot of 7535 sq.ft. in Grandview Heights subdivision. Services to lot line. Great views of the valley and is close to shopping, highway and amenities

#2905

$95,000

www.merrittpropertymanagement.ca

www.century21.ca/movingrealestate • 378-6166 • www.century21.ca/movingrealestate • 378-6166 • www.century21.ca/movingrealestate

14 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

December 27, 2018

CENTURY 21 MOVING REAL ESTATE BC LTD. COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL

LAND 6021 BEECH RD

6348 MONCK PARK ROAD

6685 MONCK PARK RD

MIDDAY VALLEY RD

1898 BLAIR ST

2845 NEILSON ST

Great 1 acre lakeview lot with stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake. The perfect place to build your country retreat, in neighbourhood of high end custom homes.

Enjoy fishing, swimming & boating.

Two 10 acre parcels in the City limits zoned FD “future development”.

Located on truck route and easy access to highway. Call for more details

Many possibilities for this fully fenced commercial property of approx. 30,000 sq.ft. & comprised of two titles. Has C2 zoning, 5 large truck gates to easy access from both roads & lane and is fully fenced.

15.9 acre RV Park zoning bordering the Coldwater River. Hookups in place & future set of plans for expansion available. Has city services. Has small rental home with long term tenants.

#2971 $169,900

#2555 $2,000,000

#3051

#2771

6397 MONCK PARK RD

4153 AIRPORT RD

NEW Great property is a well developed subdivision of acreages. This unique 15 acre property has a large amount of river frontage. Hydro is at lot line, well & septic must be installed. Most of land is flat & useable.

#2720

$289,000

1 acre waterfront lot on Nicola Lake. Build your dream home or vacation getaway . Land has gentle slope to waterfront. Great location for many water sports and close to Monck Park Provincial Park. Water & sewer to lot line.

#3071

$475,000

6589 MONCK PARK RD

2288 BURGESS AVENUE

A rare waterfront lot on Nicola River waiting for development. 0.94 acres with over 50 meters of river frontage, not subdividable.

In neighbourhood of high end homes.

Build your executive retreat on this 1.1 acre lot in Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Water and sewer hookups available. Great lake for all water sports, fishing and hiking trails. Adjoining lot also available.

Build your dream home here in Nicola Lakeshore Estate. This .094 acre lot has 180 degree views. Great lake for boating, fishing, hiking & biking. In area of high end custom homes.

#3027

#2808

#3009

$174,900

6433 MONCK PARK RD

$199,000

$159,900

Lease all or part of this 11.4 acre site. Great location beside Walmart. C-4 zoning. Highway 5 close by. Ready to go, cleared & gravel topped site. Utilities at lot line. Owners may entertain offers to purchase.

Build your dream home on this 1 acre lot with 180 degree views of Nicola Lake. Great lake for all water sports. Located in development of high end homes. Has water & sewer available to property line.

In one of Merritt’s high end developments, Nicola Lakeshore Estates. This 1 acre lot has water and sewer hookups available and fantastic views of Nicola Lake. Close to water access.

#3069 $155,000

#2969

Nicola Lake is located 10 kms from Merritt and Monck Park Provincial Park.

$159,900

#2960 $400,000

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING INVESTMENT PROPERTY • Location – The more central the location to transportation, hospitals, schools, restaurants and shopping, the higher the demand.

• Employment opportunities – a growing job market means more rentals are needed.

• Rental rates – make sure your rental rates cover your mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, extra expenses and Property Management fees.

• Development – Is there future development planned for the area that will help increase your property value?

Many possibilities for this fully fenced commercial property of approx. 30,000 sq.ft. & comprised of two titles. Has C2 zoning, 5 large truck gates to easy access from both roads & lane and is fully fenced.

Well maintained & established business, a turnkey operation. 3200 sq.ft. concrete block building, good parking, comes with all equipment. Financial available. Room for growth.

#3046

$499,000

4079 AIRPORT RD

4066 AIRPORT ROAD

1.7 acres of commercial land. Lease all or part of this site at $0.75 per sq.ft.

Presently being used for semi-truck parking.

Zonced C-3. Call for permitted uses available

D L O S

Approx. 1/2 acre parcel zoned M-1 with utilities in place on the lot. Located near Walmart, highway access and backs onto the airport.

#2977

#2952

$99,999

1101 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

3940 CRAWFORD AVE

LOT A, MIDDAY VALLEY RD

10 acre development site with CD-1 zoning. Will have city water and sewer (not connected yet). Bring your ideas and call for more details.

Lease all or part of this 1.3 acre property at $0.85 per sq.ft. or will built warehouse to suit. Zoned C-3. Directly across from Boston Pizza and Highway 5 is close by. Call for permitted uses.

122 acres of multiple zonings C4, C6 and R1. Buyer should contact the City of Merritt to request suitable zoning to match their needs. Call for more details.

#2958 $750,000

#2954

#2957 $1,584,000

923 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

The easiest investment properties are apartments, townhouses and single family homes. Apartments and townhomes are lower maintenance, but do your research on comparative properties and watch out for high monthly strata fees.

Call our Realtors at Century 21 who know the community and what future development is coming to Merritt for 2019.

NOW is the time to make your investment!

MERRITT DRY CLEANING

LOT 2, MIDDAY VALLEY RD

6 acres currently zoned R1. City water and sewer not yet connected. Zoning may be changed to suit Buyers needs.

Fantastic views.

$1,650,000

MIDDAY VALLEY ROAD

#2962 $300,000

#2953

6449 MONCK PARK RD

$395,000

Approx. 291 acre with great potential.

Current plans are for a development of 2 acre estate lots with city boundaries. Rural living within close proximity to city, with fantastic views.

#2956 $4,900,000

Looking for development property? The market is very active ~ Don’t miss out on these opportunities. Give us a call for more details.

250-315-0000 merrittpropmgmt@outlook.com

Deanna Palmgren Licensed Property Manager

Rick Baker Assistant

Kim McLean Assistant

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 15

www.merrittherald.com

Please join us in welcoming Ray and Brenda Thompson to RE/MAX Legacy!

The Thompsons are adding their local knowledge and experience.

Together, we look forward to serving Merritt and the Nicola Valley!

Best Wishes from all of us at RE/MAX Legacy for a healthy and prosperous 2019.

Legacy

112 1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

250.378.6941

Outstanding Agents, Outstanding Results.

Contact us for all your Real Estate needs!

16 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

December 27, 2018

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS PROVINCIAL POLTICS

The team at Fifth Geier Auto would like to THANK YOU for trusting us with your vehicle’s needs throughout the year.

Please recycle this newspaper.

Please recycle this newspaper.

B.C. to change formula

1x2

2x1

total B.C. public school enrolment compared to last year, bringing the total to nearly 560,000.

The highest growth districts are Surrey (up 1,152 students), Central Okanagan (up recycle this 596), Please Greater Victoria (up 384), Sooke (up 373) and Abbotsford 2x1.5 (up 321).

Sincerely wishing you and your family all the best in 2019! newspaper.

250-378-2211

2380 NICOLA AVE., MERRITT

Please recycle this newspaper.

3x1 B.C. Education Minister Rob Fleming. Photo via Hansard TV

Per-pupil formula leaves gaps for special needs, Indigenous students.

Tom Fletcher BLACK PRESS

The B.C. government is taking another year to review its school funding formula to provide additional assistance for indigenous students, those with identified special needs and rural and remote school districts.

Regional working groups will be established in January to identify needs, Education Minister Rob Fleming said Wednesday. They are to report back by the

fall of 2019, but there will be no change to the formula for the 2019-20 school year.

The groups will include teachers, parents, administrators, support staff, dealing with recommendations that include a new way of financing school districts that have declining enrolment.

“We want to make sure all students are getting the supports they need, no matter where they live,” Fleming said.

The review committee made 22 rec-

ommendations earlier this year, including a formula to take into account long distances and winter weather for school districts. For the current year, 15 districts saw enrolment declines, while the rest had small increases.

The province increased its education budget by $591 million in the current year, much of it to pay for the addition of more than 3,500 additional teachers to meet courtordered class size and special needs support levels. The education budget for 2018-19 is $6.6 billion.

As of September, there were an increase of 5,564 students in

Congratulations Please recycle this newspaper.

and the

Winners are 3x1.5

The Passport to Christmas program was once again a huge success The Merritt Herald and the local businesses would like to thank all of the people for participating again this year.

We look forward to even a better year in 2019!

1st

Prize

2019

Thank you Kurt Christopherson for helping us draw our passport winner

Maggie

Fairfiel d

3rd

2nd

Prize

Prize

Happy Holidays to all of our customers!

Hope to see you in 2019!

Franks Mechanical wishes to extend our thanks for your continued support over the past year.

FRANK’S MECHANICAL SERVICE 2026 Mamette Avenue 250-378-1322

Sheila K elly

Donna Ir

ving

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 17

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS YEAR IN REVIEW

Stories on the bright side of 2018 While Merritt has plenty of hard hitting news, some of our favourite stories were about the characters who call the Nicola Valley home.

Merritt’s dancing man in the mask “Jaguar Raves,” AKA 20-year-old Josiah Rogers, has spent the last year busting a groove for the passing cars on Voght Street.

Equipped with a boombox, mask and an insatiable thirst for the beat, Rogers is an aspiring DJ who hopes to parlay his newfound fame into a successful career as an artist. The Herald caught up with him in the spring, after his dance routine sparked plenty of intrigue online.

Merritt shows its true colours It was a tumultuous few weeks in Merritt following the decision of city council to deny a request from Merritt Secondary School students looking to paint a pride-inspired crosswalk near the school.

Despite offering to foot the bill and maintain the upkeep of the crosswalk, councillors ultimately voted against the

proposal, reasoning that other groups may look to establish their own decorative crosswalks.

Ultimately, council’s decision prompted an outpouring of colour and support for the students from busi-

Check the BC RECY 604-RECYCLE (73 1-800-667-43

Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia www.rcbc.ca Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

(Left) Oscar the giant sock monkey. (Above) A rainbow painted on the sidewalk at the Coldwater Hotel. Herald files

Josiah Rogers, or ‘Jaguar Raves’ has entertained drivers on Voght Street with his high-energy dancing this year. Herald files

Where to recycle?

Where to recycle?

nesses and communities across the province.

Local businesses painted rainbows in their parking lots, while rainbow signs adorned the windows of the shops on Quilchena Avenue.

Two Vancouver-based lawyers offered space for rainbows in a parking lot they owned in Merritt. In Lower Nicola, the band council opted to paint a number of prideinspired rainbows outside community buildings.

The students who

originally proposed the idea of a rainbow crosswalk to the school district 58 board of trustees were invited to march in the Vancouver Pride Parade, and led the Kamloops Pride Parade weeks later.

Chasing the sock monkey world record Duncan has the world’s largest hockey stick and puck. 100 Mile House features

“Breaking the Chain of Abuse”

Adopt a Pet

Please make an appointment to visit

Ph: 250-378-5223

email: aarsrescue@gmail.com View other future best friends @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca

KODI

Adult Male - Wolf-hybrid He is kind but fearful, he loves other dogs and would be happiest in a rural environment with an adult family that is quiet, gentle and understanding. Previous experience with this breed is a must.

Prior to applying to adopt please ensure your area has no restrictions on adopting this breed.

BC RECYCLING HOTLINE 604-732-9253 1-800-667-4321 Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

How’s your hearing?

Ask an Audiologist.

Carolyn Palaga, MSc, Aud (C)

Merritt Hearing Clinic A division of Carolyn Palaga Audiology Ser vices Ltd.

Call Monday - Friday

315-9688

2076A Granite Avenue, Merritt (Located at Nicola Valley Chiropractic)

Authorized by: WCB First Canadian Health Veterans Affairs Registered under the Hearing Aid Act (B.C.)

PREVENT THEFTS FROM YOUR MOTOR VEHICLE Here a few helpful hints to help prevent motor vehilcle break-ins: 1 Don’t leave purses or valuables inside vehicles overnight.

2 Lock vehicles when exiting, make it a habit.

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

T he benefiTs furnace and SELECTION ducT cleaning STOP

BY ANDof SEE OUR NEW OF:

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We’ve got all you need at Purity Feed Horse, Poultry, Livestock & Pet Supplies KAMLOOPS: 471 Okanagan Way 250-372-2233

Recycling questions?

This message brought to you by

Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue Society at The Interior Savings Credit Union, Account #1193739.

PURITY FEED

the world’s largest cross-country skis. In Houston, you can find the world’s largest fly fishing rod.

And once again, Merritt has its own world’s largest oddity, as Cherylle Douglas looked to reclaim her Guinness World Record for sewing a giant sock monkey this year.

Standing — or more accurately, laying — more than 13 feet long, ’Oscar’ weighs about 40 lbs and is made up of 416 individual socks.

Douglas first obtained the record in 2009, before Jody Lewis of the United Kingdom claimed the title with a sock monkey of her own in 2015.

Recycling council of B

MERRITT: 1690 Voght Street 250-378-4432

• Helps relieve asthma and allergy suffering • Provides a clear and healthier living environment • Reduces heating and cooling costs • Removes gyproc dust and other accumulated debris

beachcomber HOT TUBS

COPPER VALLEY MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS LTD. 2151 Coutlee Ave., Merritt

250-378-5104

18 • THURSDAY, December 27, 2018

www.merrittherald.com

Please Don’t Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Please Don’t Drink and Drive!

Allow life to thrive, DON’T DRINK & DRIVE

From Dr. McLeod, Dr. Ross, Dr. Edmonds & the staff at the Nicola Valley Medical Centre

NICOLA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTRE 2087 Granite Ave. 250-378-5115

Christmas is a Social Time; a Time for Celebrating with Friends We want you to enjoy this Holiday Season – safely So Celebrate with your Friends at the Grand Pub & Grill

Which is l ess expensive ?

a lawsuit, a new car , A Funeral... or a taxi

MAKE A RESERVATION & WE’LL GET YOU A TAXI HOME – IN CITY LIMITS. Valid December 13th through to New Year’s Eve. Happy Holidays from the Egan Family & our Grand Staff.

Your Hometown Hospitality Specialists

250-378-4618

2099 Garcia St., Merritt, BC

they don’t mix be safe this season,

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!

Contain-It Storage 1750 Hill Street, Merritt

Think about it.

Don’t drink, drug & drive

250-315-3000

New Patients Always Welcome OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Don’t drive if you’re Tipsy, Buzzed or Blitzen.

2088 Quilchena Avenue (next to the Royal Bank) PO Box 3090, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

Call: 250-378-5877

THURSDAY,December 27, 2018 • 19

www.merrittherald.com

Drink, Drug & Drive h t s ’ n o m s i h T

DRINKING ecials DRIVING Sp

LOSE your license, vehicle IMPOUNDED, A FREE criminal record REDUCED job prospects, JAIL time

YOU BOOZE, YOU CRUISE, YOU LOSE. 1301 Nicola Ave., Merritt, BC 250-378-5121

Arrive Alive!

Don’t Drink & Drive!

For up-to-date road and weather conditions please check Drive BC

driving PROHIBITION

at www.drivebc.ca

ANYfine the judge deems appropriate

Plan ahead for a ride home!

Too many people are arrested every holiday season after failing breathalyzer tests at police roadside checkpoints. Driving while intoxicated puts your own life in danger, but the worst thing is that it endangers the lives of other road users as well. Make sure that this festive time of year doesn’t end in tragedy for you or anyone else.

Christmas time often means one party after another with drinks galore.

When you accept an invitation, plan ahead of time how you’re going to get home. Members of the same family or group of friends can designate a driver, arrange to share a taxi at the end of the evening, or use a free or for-hire drive home service.

Jackson’s Welding

1750 Hill Street, Merritt 250-378-4332

Even if your alcohol consumption is minimal you still ought to check that you’re still capable of driving safely. Use a personal breath alcohol tester to find out if you’re over the legal limit; they are on sale at most provincial liquor and wine stores.

It might be hard to remember this when under the influence, but a person’s behaviour and faculties are altered by alcohol. When blood alcohol content is over 0.5 g/l, a driver’s field of vision shrinks, distance perception changes, visual reaction times increase, there is more sensitivity to glare, and vigilance and resistance to fatigue are reduced. Perhaps the ultimate danger is that alcohol consumption results in a loss of inhibition, which causes drivers to under-evaluate dangers and break traffic laws.

Don’t drink and drive!

Have a Safe & Happy Holiday Season.

Don’t Drink & Drive

PLEASE DON’T DRINK & DRIVE! Pre-plan your ride home!

The Conayt Friendship Society Alcohol and Drug Program is very concerned about DO NOT drink, drug and drive.

PLEASE BE SAFE this holiday season!

2676 Nicola Avenue • 250-378-9241 1-888-292-1581 • www.mariostowing.com

3701 De Wolf Way, Merritt • 250-315-1022

20 • THURSDAY, merrittherald.com

www.merrittherald.com

December 27, 2018

SPORTS

bcclassified.com

Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com

2018

The sports year in pictures Photos by Cole Wagner, Bill Stowell and contributed

Merritt Centennials Lottery

GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY - THEY WILL GO FAST $10,000 Cash Grand Prize - Feb. 23 •

EARLY BIRD DRAW - JAN. 11

Only $10 Per Ticket BC Gaming Event Licence #108317 - Know your Limit, Play within It

FOR TICKETS DROP BY 2001C VOGHT ST, OR AT THE GATE ON GAMEDAY.

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 21

www.merrittherald.com

merrittherald.com

bcclassified.com

COMMUNITY BOARD Do you want to list your event? Let us know by emailing: publisher@merrittherald.com Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday prior to publication.

MARRIAGE COURSE

The Crossroads Community Church will be hosting a marriage course for couples who are married or living together and want to grow their relationship. Enjoy seven weeks of dessert nights at a table for two (our last night is a full dinner). Couples will be guided to discuss with only their mate, important topics that will help grow practical tools to keep your relationship strong.

Come out Sunday evenings from Jan. 13 to March 3 from 6 - 8:30 p.m. If you would like more information go to www.merrittcrossroads.com or call 250-378-2911 You must register before Jan. 4 as space is limited.

IMMIGRANT SERVICES NOW IN MERRITT

Born outside of Canada? We can help! Kamloops Immigrant Services is a non-profit agency now offering services in Merritt. We assist all newcomers, including naturalized Canadian citizens, with a variety of services to help you get established in your community. All our services are free of charge for eligible clients. Contact us for additional information at 1-866-672-0855 or e-mail liza@kcris.ca / min@kcris.ca.

NICOLA VALLEY METIS

General meeting will be held every third Wednesday of the month. For more information please call Betty Ann at 250-378-5015. .

COMMUNITY BAND

Nicola Valley Community Band practices 7 p.m. Tuesdays at MSS music room. For more information call James 250-315-7724.

THE MERRITT CHAPTER OF THE VINTAGE CAR CLUB OF CANADA

Invites all persons interested in restoring and enjoying vintage vehicles to join us at our monthly meeting held at the Anglican Church Hall, 1990 Chapman Street, at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. Vintage car ownership is not required. Call Ted Lund at 250-3784195 for more information.

DROP IN CENTER FOR ELDERS

The Conayt Friendship Society located at 1964 Quilchena Ave. has a drop-in center for Elders every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Snacks and light lunches are provided. Elders are welcome to assist in preparing menu and lunch. A signin sheet is at the front office. Elders can provide suggested menus and lunch to reception at the attention of the executive director.

Mostly Sunny Cloudy w/Showers High High:-3˚C 9C Low: 6C Low: -4˚C

Dec. 15 28 Fri. Mar.

ScatteredPeriods Flurries Cloudy High: -2˚C High: 10C Low: 4C Low: -3˚C

Secured

■

Sale of New and Used storage containers

To Brian, Carrie-Lynn and the staff of Doctor’s Eyecare, I would like to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for going over and above for myself and my son during a difficult time.

Its special to find people so welcoming, genuine, thoughtful and caring and I appreciate you more than I can say.

BAILLIE HOUSE

Fall house sale starting on Sept. 13. The sale will run from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until further notice.

MESSY CHURCH

For parents or guardians and children to share fun activities, crafts, games, songs, celebration and sit-down dinner with your family. First Thursday of month, 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Trinity United Church. For more information or to register 250-378-5735 or email tucc@telus.net

PENSION BREAKFAST

NAVY LEAGUE OF CANADA

Join the Navy League every Wednesday evening from 6 9 p.m. for our parade. We are located at 1755 Coldwater Ave. Jumpstart does cover the cost of our fees and no child is turned away due to finances. For more information call 250-280-6944.

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION

Hours are 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.. Come join us Saturdays for our meat draw. Guests always welcome and will be signed in by a member.

Candice and Austin.

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 Ave. (Corner of Coutlee and Orme) • 250-378-2464 Service Time/ Sunday School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

NICOLA VALLEY QUILTERS GUILD

Volunteers are needed for daytime, evening and overnight shifts at the Nicola Valley Winter Shelter.

Applications are available at the advocacy centre, #2-2025 Granite Ave. and at Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society, 2038 Nicola Ave.

CONAYT BINGO

Join Conayt Friendship Society every Thursday for bingo.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and bingo starts at 6 p.m..

Everyone welcome to come and play! 2164 Quilchena Ave.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 • Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

Seventh Day Adventist Church

2190 Granite Ave. • 250-378-2339 Bible Study: 9:30 • Service Time: Saturdays 11:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service times: Sundays at 10am (no service on the 5th Sunday)

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time/ Sunday School (K - Gr. 4) - 10 am

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2451 Spring Bank Ave • 250-378-5603 Worship Service Sunday -10 am • Sunday School -11:10 am Bible Study - 6:45 to 7:45 pm Wednesdays

7 Day WeatherForecast Forecastfor forMerritt, Merritt,BC BC--Thursday, Thursday, March Dec. 2714- Wednesday, January 2019 7 Day Weather - Wednesday, March2, 20, 2013 Thurs.

Dec. 14 27 Thurs. Mar.

■

1750 1 17 7 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

Literacy Merritt & Nicola Valley Society is looking for volunteer tutors for the One to One elementary school reading program. For more information email literacymerritt@ gmail.com or phone 250-378-7844.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

A winter outreach program operates at St Michael’s community hall, 1990 Chapman St., from 10:30 a.m.

On-site rentals

LITERACY MERRITT

RED CROSS

FRIENDSHIP FRIDAY

Approved mini-storage

■

Anyone wanting to research their family trees may contact Al Thompson at 250-212-9868. We will open the family history centre by appointment only.

Conayt Friendship Society Pension Day breakfast will be held on every Pension Day from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at 2164 Quilchena Ave. Everyone is invited. Elders eat at no charge. For more information call 250-378-5107.

Volunteer servers and cooks are welcome.

Sat.Mar. Dec.16 29 Sat.

A few flurries Variable Clouds High: 1˚C High: 8C Low -1˚C Low: 4C

Sun.Mar. Dec.17 30 Sun.

Mixed WetPercipitation Snow High: High: -1˚C 6C Low: 2C Low: -2˚C

Mon.Mar. Dec.18 31 Mon.

Tues.

Jan. Tue. Mar. 191

Wed.Mar. Jan.20 2 Wed.

Stain Glass by

Almerina Rizzardo

• • • • Mix of Sun &Clouds Clouds Variable High -3˚C High: 6C Low: 0C Low: -5˚C

Mix of SunShowers & Clouds SnowRain High: -4˚C High: 7C Low: Low:-1C -7˚C

Contents are insurable

■

FAMILY HISTORY

We are looking for curlers, season starting in October games are Mondays and Tuesdays at 1 p.m. If interested please call George at 250-378-6779.

H.E.L.P. Merritt Red Cross is looking for volunteers for two hours on Thursdays to loan out health equipment from the Merritt Hospital. You will be working with another volunteer who will help train you. If you can help please call 250-378-5276. Students for summer months are welcome.

STORAGE

to 2 p.m. every Friday. The program is in need of a few helping hands so we can provide lunch, games, conversation and music. Musicians are invited to bring songs, instruments and voices for playing, jamming and singing. If you would like to be part of this, please call/text Michael at 250-315-7454.

Meets on the first and third Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the civic center. New members always welcome. The next quilting retreat weekend will be on Jan. 11 - 13.

Register at the civic center, open to everyone. Find us on Facebook!

SENIOR CURLING

CONTAIN-IT

MixLight of SunSnow & Clouds High: -1˚C High: 7C Low: 0C Low: -3˚C

STAIN GLASS SUN CATCHERS NIGHT LIGHTS PICTURE FRAMES

Available at Creative Company 2074 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC Monday - Saturday Ph: 250-378-0813

22 • THURSDAY,

December 27, 2018

www.merrittherald.com

CLASSIFIEDS

Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: sales2@merrittherald.com Employment

Employment

Employment

Services

Rentals

Legal

Business Opportunities

Business Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Medical Health

Modular Homes

Legal Notices

Get up to $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know have any of these Conditions? ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. CALL THE BENEFITS PROGRAM 1-(800)-211-3550 For Your Free No Obligation Information Package TODAY.

2 Bedroom Trailer in Lower Nicola. Looking for a mature senior, quiet individual. No Smokers / No Pets Room for only 1 vehicle $750.00 per month Plus Damage Deposit tlcpond1@telus.net (250) 378 - 4166

CRIMINAL RECORD?

Busy Plumbing & Heating Company For Sale Priced for quick sell due to health reasons. $3.27M. E-mail: theplumber6358 @gmail.com

Akisqnuk First Nation

Sr. Administrative Officer

Obituaries

Obituaries

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY Every death creates a special pain unique to each survivor.

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

P: 250-280-4040

MERRITT

FUNERAL CHAPEL

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

e.

The Celebration of a Lifetime Begins Her On Call 24 Hours A Day

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m

www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 Help Wanted

Help Wanted

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Applications are invited for the position of a Human Resources Manager with School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) in Merritt.

This is a 12-month per year, 7.5 hours per day, excluded position.

For a complete listing of the job description and TXDOLÀFDWLRQV SOHDVH YLVLW WKH GLVWULFW·V ZHEVLWH DW www.sd58.bc.ca click on Employment/Job Positions (Job Code 2624510). Applications will be accepted until Friday, January 11, 2019.

Please apply online or forward your detailed resume with a minimum of three references to:

The Akisqnuk First Nation (AFN) is an Indigenous organization committed to the development of the community members it serves on Windermere Lake in the Columbia Valley of south eastern BC. We are currently recruiting for the senior most position to lead the organizational growth of our community including; Education, Health, Housing, Economic and Social development.

For qualifications, competencies and full position description, please visit: www.akisqnuk.org Apply with resume

by Jan 11, 2019 to: Karen Lillejord, Sr. Financial Officer.

3050 Hwy 93/95 Windermere, BC V0B 2L2 Fax: 250.342.9693 Email: klillejord@akisqnuk.org

Small Ads Get

BIG

Results Education/Trade Schools MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Antiques / Vintage

Auctions

Fine Art fourth Meridian

& Collectables www.4thmeridian.ca We are LOCAL & cater to eclectic tastes.

We support non-profits with fundraising auctions.

Shop our online gallery anytime.

Misc. Wanted 000 Able buyer of all your old

coins, collections, RC MINT COINS, all silver, gold, rare, common, old money.+ Todd The Coin Guy (250)-864-3521

Real Estate Acreage for Sale 160 Acre Estate or 50 Potential View Lots

Located in the Village of Lumby.

2 springs on property. $625,000 Call 250-260-0217

Antiques / Vintage

4th Meridian Auctions & Vintage Shop Now Accepting Consignments of Fine Art + we buy quality antiques & vintage items ~ We host regular online art auctions & sell art, furniture + collectibles directly at our shop & showroom in the Cannery Trade Centre 104 - 1475 Fairview Road, Penticton

Open Tuesday - Friday 11 - 4 or by appointment: 250-462-4969 or 250-488-0850 www.4thmeridianvintage.ca | www.4thmeridian.ca

Recycling

Recycling

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Deliver newspapers and start to . . .

EARN EXTRA CASH

MERRITT ROUTE ME15. 43PAPERS. DOUGLAS ST & GRANITE AVE. STARTING DEC.13 ME26. 65 PAPERS. MAIN ST & QUILCHENA AVE • A flexible schedule • A great way to lose weight and get into shape • A great way to supplement your income • Great first job - excellent opportunity to teach children the life skills for success Consider being a carrier for the Merritt Herald.

You will earn extra money delivering an award winning community newspaper once a week to the homes in your neighbourhood.

If anyone in your family is interested in being a paper carrier, call Ken at

250-378-4241

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF INTENT RE: LIQUOR CONTROL AND LICENSING ACT APPLICATION FOR A BREWERY LOUNGE ENDORSEMENT Application for a Brewery Lounge Endorsement has been received by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch from Empty Keg Brew House Ltd. located at 2190 Voght Street in Merritt.

Person capacity for the proposed endorsement area will be limited to 50 persons interior; within the hours of 11 :00 AM to 11.00 PM. Residents located within a 0.8 km radius of the proposed site may comment on this proposal by writing to: THE GENERAL MANAGER C/O SENIOR LICENSING ANALYST LIQUOR AND CANNABIS REGULATION BRANCH PO BOX 9292 VICTORIA, BC V8W 9J8 2) Email to: lclb.lclb@gov.bc.ca

Attn: Secretary Treasurer School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) P.O. Box 4100, 1550 Chapman Street Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Only those applicants being interviewed will be contacted.

1-800-222-TIPS Help Wanted

Merchandise for Sale

Why suffer Employment/ Licensing loss? Travel/ Business opportunities?

Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver. Record Purge.

File Destruction.

Free Consultation 1-800-347-2540 accesslegalmjf.com

PETITIONS AND FORM LETTERS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

Please recycle this newspaper.

To ensure the consideration of your views, your comments, name and address must be received on or before January 18, 2019. Please note that your comments may be made available to the applicant or local government RIÀFLDOV ZKHUH GLVFORVXUH LV QHFHVVDU\ WR DGPLQLVWHU WKH OLFHQVLQJ SURFHVV

www.merrittherald.com

Local Business Directory BUILDING SUPPLIES MERRITT LUMBER SALES 2152 DOU GLAS ST., MERRITT, BC

250-378-5382 • 250-314-4249

Lumber, Plywood, Fencing SPECIALS

LARGE LANDSCAPING BEAMS AVA ILABLE

HOURS OF OPERATION:

CONCRETE

OLD OR NEW WE HAVE WARRANTY NE MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYO

Fully Qualied Tradesmen in..

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.

Service Work & Furnace Service.

Custom Sheet Metal Atlas RV Parts & Repairs

PHONE: 250-378-4943

2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC

250-378-1322

ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE

EXCAVATING

HERE FOR YOU!

JOE & SONS CONCRETE LTD.

250-525-1555

JOEANDSONS.CA

g n i t a e H & g n i b m Nicola Plu

RVICE FRANK’S MECHANICAL SE APPROVED

2026 Mamette Avenue

Mon to Fri.: 8 am - 5 pm & Sat.: 8 am - 4 pm

Specializing in concrete forming, finishing, repair & coatings.

PLUMBING & HEATING

MECHANIC

• Tune Ups kes • Exhaust Bra • nsion • Lube/Oil pe Sus • s & Struts •Radiator Service • Shock e rvic Se g • Air Conditionin

SCREWS, NAILS, ROOFING, INSULATION, JOIST HANGERS & much more

THURSDAY, December 27, 2018 • 23

Gary’s Mini Excavating Service • Small Job Specialist • Dump Trailer Service • Fencing & Post Pounder • Bobcat Service • Concrete Driveways & Sidewalks • Fully Insured

we do EVERYTHING CONCRETE • Home Foundations • Retaining Walls • Stamped Concrete • Pool Decks • Basements • Sidewalks • Patios • Stairs

• Concrete Cleaning & Sealing • Crack Filling & Patching • Commercial Foundations • Saw Cutting • Jack Hammering • Grinding • Concrete Leak Repairs • Epoxy Garage Floors

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

MOVING COMPANY MERRITT MOVING Merritt Professional Moving Company In town or long haul We do it all!

Toll Free: 1-800-665-8711 www.danalbas.com @DanAlbas

DanAlbas4COSN

2562B Main Street West Kelowna, BC V4T 2N5

email: garylsedore@gmail.com

Cell: 250-315-3174 250-378-4312 ESTIMATES: FREE for Sedore Call Gary

CLEANING SERVICES 250-378-9410

EMERGENCY FLOOD SERVICES

TREE SERVICE JIM POTTER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE • Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment

• WATER REMOVAL • DRYING EQUIPMENT • INSURANCE CLAIMS Working with insurance adjusters to restore your home!

www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com

TF: 1-877-612-0909 MERRITT’S MOST DIVERSIFIED CLEANING COMPANY

➤Schedule your FREE Estimate

CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

Solutions for your tree problems!

378-7122

MORTGAGE BROKER

ADVERTISING MERRITT HERALD

Your LocaL Mortgage Broker

Use the equity in your home to consolidate debt, top up RRSPs, or tackle renovations

CONTRACTING

We offer FULL SERVICE SNOW REMOVAL

• Graders • D6 Dozer •Excavators • Tandem Axle Plow Trucks • Plow and Sand Trucks • Skid Steer Loaders •Gravel Trucks • Backhoes Nicola Valleys largest snow removal company. Main taining provincial highways, logg ing roads, heavy industrial sites and private businesses.

Harry Howard (250) 490-6731

Call

Advertising works!

Place your ad in our Business Directory!

For more information contact Michele at:

250-378-4241

harry@harryhoward.ca

Interior

www.arnicacontracting.com

inc.

CALL 250-315-5074

DENTIST

MOBILE HAIR STYLING Mobile Hair Stylist Enjoy haircuts in the comfort of your own home.

Men, Women & Childrens HAIRCUTS.

sales2@merrittherald.com Nicole Robinson - 16 Years Experience Jn5212@telus.net • 250-315-6112

NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME

GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call

250-378-4888 to book your appointment.

2731 Forksdale Avenue, V1K 1R9

www.dentistryatmerritt.ca

R. Dutt-DMD Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr.

HOURS

Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm

24 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

December 27, 2018

City Furniture’s Annual

New Years Day

6 HOUR BLITZ

ONE DAY • ONE BIG EVENT • ONCE A YEAR JANUARY 1st • 11 AM TO 5 PM All 201 and flo 8 Models or mo dels MUST G

O!

0N% CING

FINA

OAC

First 20 custom get a FREE G ers with p urcha IFT se

STOREWIDE SAVINGS Up To

70% Off

Closed Monday, Dec. 31 to prepare for this huge event!

2025 Coutlee Avenue, Merritt Phone: 250-378-2332

& Appliances Ltd.

HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 6 pm, Sat.: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Sundays: 11 am - 4 pm