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MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 •
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ELDER CARE
Nicola-Canford students prepared crafty gifts for
seniors for Valentine’s Day.
/PAGE 9
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RUBY ROYAL
Valentine cheer.
Some winged angels took to the streets to spread some safe
/PAGE 14
FREE
CENT ALUM
A former backstopper of the Centennials is making headlines in NCAA college hockey.
/PAGE 23
FRESH HONEY: Gavin Walter of Coquihalla Apiaries shows off his bee collection as part of our five-page spread celebrating Agriculture Day. PAGE 15-19
CELEBRATING LOCAL 1863 MENZIES STREET 3 bedrm townhouse with newer roof in 2016. Kitchen, laundry & living room on main floor. Kitchen has access to fenced back yard. Spacious master bedroom plus 2 other bedrooms up & 4 pce bath. Extra parking in back. Quick possession.
MLS#160261
$229,900
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Brad Yakimchuk 250-315-3043 Personal Real Estate Corporation
2 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
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2713 Eagle Cres
NEW MLS#160301 $99,900 Investors or First Time Buyers take note. 2 bedroom 1 bath ground floor 783sqft apartment unit. Close to corner store for shopping and bus stop across the street. Building has had updated patio doors installed.
2706 Eagle Cres
MLS#153191
$108,900
Panoramic views of the beautiful Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up and coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at the time of permit.
4250 Falcon Crest Drive
MLS#160061
$109,900
Build your dream home on this nice lot in popular Country Pines Estate. This subdivision is in a nice central location w/ quality homes surrounding. Water and sewer services run along the road and will need to be connected into the lot at the time of permit application.
6415 Monck Park Road
MLS#153190
$110,900
Panoramic views of the beautiful Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up and coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at time of permit. No requirements to build by a certain date .
211-2295 Blair Street
NEW MLS#153192
$112,900
Panoramic views of the beautiful Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up & coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at the time of permit.
302-1701 Menzies Street
MLS#157597 $119,900 .29 ACRE Lot. Make a Fresh Start in this beautiful Grandview heights subdivision! Rest your eyes on the peaceful Nicola Val-
ley’s panoramic views. Choose the home you want to build in this preferred neighbourhood of new homes in Merritt. No GST
4-2390 Seyom Cres
NEW
MLS#157320 $179,000 1 Acre lake view lot located in the Nicola Lake Shore Estates, just 2.5 hours from Lower Mainland, 1 hour from Kamloops & 1.5 hours from Kelowna. Crown Land backs onto this lot, easy access for ATV’S, walking & exploring.
MLS#160324 $189,000 Ground floor 2 bed, 1 bath, apartment! Updated flooring, countertops, & paint. Easy access, nearby amenities, restaurants, schools, daycare & park. Great investment, currently tenanted.
1481 Miller Road
1425 Canford Ave
SOLD
MLS#153195
$110,900
Panoramic views of the beautiful Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up & coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at time of permit. No requirement to build by a certain date.
101-1701 Menzies Street
SOLD MLS#159211
$219,000
2 beds, 2 baths strata apartment. This home features an open design, a great entertaining kitchen w/ lots of cabinets, a center island with eating car, A/C & a nice patio located off kitchen/dining area
2152 Merritt Ave
SOLD
MLS#160070 $225,000 Nice 2 bed, 1.5 bath apt located in The Summit strata development. This apt features an open kitchen to dining room and living room.
MLS#160368 $229,900 Want to get into the market? Check out this 3 bed, 1.5 bath townhouse in a nice central location close to shopping amenities. Townhouse offers a nice sized yard, spacious layout, & has great potential.
MLS#158244 $260,000 Just over 10 acre located in beautiful Miller Estates, a
subdivision of custom built executive homes, just 10 minutes west of Merritt. Fantastic treed property to build your dream home and enjoy the Views.
MLS#160216 $269,000 Charming 2 bed, 1 bath home in a quiet neighborhood w/ beautiful river walk trail just steps from your front door. There have been many updates to this well cared for bungalow.
MLS#159066 $325,000 Good starter home in a nice central location. This home has 2 beds up and 1 down, nice large lot w/ detached garage/workshop. New roof. Minutes away from pool/ arena and downtown.
436 Brenton Ave
2543 Coutlee Ave
2698 Irvine Ave
1843 Nicola Ave
1428 Collett Street
NEW
SOLD
MLS#160168 $340,000 Investors take note! Very cute 2 bed, 1 bath home w/ lots of potential located in the desired Lower Nicola, approx. 15 minutes from downtown Merritt.
MLS#160273 $383,700 Great 3 bed, 2 bath fully updated family home. This home has 2 beds up & 2 down w/ a good size rec room which can be used as a 4th bed. New windows in 2018, & new roof in 2017.
MLS# 160155 $389,000 Spacious 3 bed, possibly 4, 2 bath family home w/ fully fenced back yard, tons of storage space & ample parking. Location is walking distance to groceries, shops, and elementary school.
MLS#160035 $399,900 4 bedroom, 2 bath family home in a nice downtown location. House has 2 beds up & 2 down. New roof in 2016, front windows 2019 & hot water tank in 2018.
MLS#160191 $429,900 Enjoy this2 bed + den rancher home on quiet street w/ views of the historic Collett Ranch. House is completely wheelchair accessible w/ a covered ramp to access the home, wide hallway and doors.
377 Merritt Spences Bridge
6408 Monck Park Road
1741 Lindley Creek Road
2276 Garcia Street
1464 Miller Road
MLS#158488 $599,900 HERITAGE 1920’s craftsman home reflecting the Art Deco era. This 5 + 1 beds 4 bath home is located on a double lot within walking distance to restaurants, downtown, parks, & recreation centre!
MLS#159274 $1,499,000 RETREAT & SERENITY in Miller Estates, panoramic views in an area of custom built homes and equestrian estate properties. Oversized great room with vaulted ceilings to complement bright open living area. Delightful decor.
SOLD MLS#158376 $438,000 Investors! Just minutes from Merritt in the Lower Nicola area, this 1.2 acre parcel of land offers 6 income producing homes. The property is pre-existing, non-conforming for the current zoning.
MLS#160162
$439,900
This spectacular waterfront lot on Nicola Lake offers over 1 acre of lakeside living at its best! This is a rare opportunity to purchase one of the last lake front lots located in Phase 1 of the Nicola Lakeshore Estates development.
SOLD MLS#150722 $485,000 Attention: Developers and Investors! Rare R3 acreages available. The lot size is 1.84 acres with medium density residential zoning. The location of the property is in the Country Pine Estates development.
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 3
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ONGOING PANDEMIC
Merritt Central confirms COVID-19 exposure SD58 Superintendent Stephen McNiven released the information on Feb. 12. Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER A member of the Merritt Central
Elementary community has tested positive for COVID-19, according to School District No. 58 NicolaSimilkameen. The person who tested positive is now self-isolating. The dates of exposure at Merritt Central were Feb. 8 and 9, with Interior Health Authority performing contact tracing to determine who may have come in contact
Chiefs take to Zoom to discuss COVID-19 Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER The Chiefs of the five Nicola Valley First Nations communities are making a plea for their members to be careful, and to take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Chief Marcell Shackelly acknowledged that the Nooaitch Band had seen cases of the virus, and warned that with new variants emerging, the risk of transmission could possibly increase. “COVID is in our communities, and with the virus changing form it’s getting more and more contagious,” said Shackelly. “We have to be extra vigilant about keeping ourselves and our families, our community members safe.” Chief Lee Spahan of Coldwater sympathized with community members who were feeling the effects of being separated from their friends and loved ones as measures remain in place to help flatten the curve. “We are a very social people, and to not be able to visit with each other is really hard,” said Spahan. “No parties, no get togethers, no extended
with this person and thus needs to quarantine. Those who have not been contacted
by Interior Health Authority are encouraged to send their
children to school as usual. “The safety and well-being of our students, families and staff remains our highest priority,” reads a statement from Stephen McNiven, Superintendent of Schools. “Please be reassured that Merritt Central Elementary will continue to implement the strict protocols and procedures
family dinners. We have to use some old ways of staying in touch, like phone calls or sending a card. And new ways like email, text and virtual get togethers, did you know you can create your own Zoom meeting?” Harvey McLeod, Chief of Upper Nicola Band, which has also had members test positive, warned that people must not be judgemental of those who were isolating for potential exposure, or had tested positive. “We are also a people that care and look after each other, anyone can catch COVID and if someone has the virus or is having to isolate because they’ve been exposed, it doesn’t mean they are doing anything wrong,” said McLeod. “They need our support and help, a phone call to say hi, and offers to run errands.” LNIB Chief, Stu Jackson, warned that young people must be responsible and ensure that they weren’t taking unnecessary risks merely because they are not in the most vulnerable age group. “Some of our youth think that they are invincible and COVID will not affect them,” said Jackson. “COVID has in fact been responsible for the deaths of people under 18, and even if you, the young person don’t catch COVID, do you want to be responsible for passing it on to your family members? The rules apply to everyone, regardless of age.” Chief of Shackan Band, Jordan Joe, offered a glimmer of hope in the long battle
we have in place so that children can continue to attend school as safely as possible. Our regular process of cleaning and sanitization continue diligently to ensure that our physical spaces are ready for all students and staff.” No additional details about this exposure will be provided to ensure personal privacy rights are maintained.
against the pandemic by assuring community members that some vaccines had already been administered, and that more were on the way. “The good news is that the vaccines are making their way to our communities now, they will help us to conquer this virus so we can get back to a more normal life,” said Joe. “The vaccines have been well tested, and they are safe. Our members at Shackan have received some of the vaccine and there have not been ill effects beyond the occasional headache or a sore arm. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Band’s health personnel and get registered to receive it.” The five Chiefs closed out their video message with tips for everyone to follow in order to do their part to limit the spread of the virus. “In the meantime, remember to keep social distancing, keep six feet apart from others,” said Shackelly. “No partying, no visiting and no nonessential travel,” urged McLeod. “Wear a mask in public places,” said Jackson, Spahan echoed Public Health orders with, “Wash your hands frequently and sanitize.” “If you have to isolate, reach out to your fellow members, family and friends for help and to keep in touch with each other,” concluded Chief Jordan Joe. “We care and we want everyone in our communities to stay well and be safe.”
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People are being warned about online scams through dating apps and services by the Better Business Bureau, as face-to-face interactions remain at a standstill.
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OPS RECORD It was announced on Wednesday that BC set a record in 2020 by performing more heart and lung transplants than ever before, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
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BC Hydro has released a new report stating that couples have a hard time agreeing on the thermostat when sleeping at night.
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4 • THURSDAY, June 13, 2019
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City of Merritt
CITY
to meet with Mayor Brown every YOU’RE INVITED! Wednesday 10:00 to meetfrom with Mayor Brownam everyto 1:00 pm
COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE City Meetings have resumed residents are All Council City Council Meetings will nowin-person be held and online with live Regular Council Meeting June 11, 2019 strongly links encouraged toat watch online via www.merritt.ca streaming available www.merritt.ca and on the City
of Merritt social channels. questions/ Regular Council Meeting -Meeting Juneinput 25,- 2019 February 23 -media Regular CouncilPublic 7:00 PM information can be submitted prior to the Council Regular Council Meeting July 9, 2019 February 25to - Airport Committee - 10:00 AM meetings communications@merritt.ca Regular Council Meeting - July 23, 2019PM March 9 -Council Regular Council Regular Meeting -Meeting August 4- 7:00 - 7 pm Regular Council Meeting - August 18 - 7 pm
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications for the position of CASUAL LIFEGUARD/
In accordance with Sections 24 and 26 of the Community INSTRUCTOR Charter, notice is I.hereby given that the City of Merritt PUBLIC on TUESDAY August 4th, 2020 at 7:00PM intends to enter HEARING into a lease the located at on For complete details, visit of City ofproperty Merritt website www.merritt.ca those portions of lands legally described as Lot A, Plan CurrentKAP33801, resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing Number Section 23, District Lot 121, Except education and qualifications, and proof of required education andwill licenses be accepted prior to Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing be will held on Tuesday Plan 37919, at 4510 Airport Road, Merritt, BC and shown 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 12, 2019 by: outlined in red on the map. August 4th, 2020 in the Council Chambers at Merritt City Hall, located The lessee is the Nicola Valley Search & Rescue and the at 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC with respect to the following proposed Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager term of the lease is 3 years. The basic rent is a nominal PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca Zoning Bylaw 2284, 2020. amount of $3.00 for the term of the lease, which is less than market value, estimated at $16,800 per annum. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be Enquiries: Acontacted. copy of the proposed the Bylaw and other relevant documents may be Sky McKeon,during Manager,normal Recreation and Facilities viewed business hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on Thursday PODate Box 189 2185 Voght Street, Merritt V1K 1B8 Posted: Monday, June 17, BC 2019 July 23rd to Tuesday August 4th, 2020 at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt 250-378-8618 smckeon@merritt.ca Posting Expires: Friday, July 12, 2019
BC, or online at www.merritt.ca
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
Anyone who wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given the opportunity at the Public Hearing to be heard in person, by a representative, WHAT: Summer Nights Market or by written submission, onMerritt all matters contained in the proposed Bylaw. WHEN: every Friday June 28th to August 30th 5:00pm to 10:00pm If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing, written submission must be WHERE: 2000-2100 Block Quilchena Avenue received NO LATER THAN 12:00PM THURSDAY, JULY 30th, 2020, to ensure their availability to Council at the Public Hearing. Written submission can be provided by any of the following methods: Don McArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager dmcarthur@merritt.ca PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 All submissions must include your name and street address. No letter, report or representation from the public will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning & Development Services Manager at 250-378-8620 or at dmcarthur@merritt. ca
page
in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall (second floor), 2185 Voght Street
Wednesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
In-person areHall currently phone in the Mayor’s meetings Office at City (secondpaused, floor), but 2185 Voghtand Street. video calls are encouraged to discuss issues and opportunities.
Interested citizens are welcome to stop by, say250-378-8634 hello and discuss Booking an appointment ahead of time is required by calling
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
PUBLICPLEASE NOTICE NOTE A NOTICE OF PUBLIC
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY HEARING SCHEDULED FOR
Pursuant to Section 26 of the Community Charter, notice is hereby given that the City of Merritt intends to The enterCity intoofa Merritt lease ofis the property located for at 2185A VoghtofStreet, legally described as Position: inviting applications the position PUBLIC WORKS SEASONAL PID 006-274-820, Lot A, Plan 8523, District Lot 124. LABOURER.
AUGUST 4, 2020 AT 7:00 PM IS ON PAGE 5
The is the Nicola Human Services Association (doing business as Forlessee complete details, visitValley City ofCommunity Merritt website at www.merritt.ca Nicola Family Therapy) and the term of the lease is 3 years. The rent for the term of the lease is Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing $43,380.00.
education and qualifications, and proof of required education and licenses will be accepted prior to
Enquiries: 4:00 p.m. Monday, July 08, 2019 by: Sky McKeown, Manager, Recreation and Facilities Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC V1K 1B8 250-378-8618 smckeown@merritt.ca 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: June 21, 2019PROGRAM NEW PET Friday, LICENCING Posting Expires: Monday, July 08, 2019 AS OF FEBRUARY 15
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
The City of Merritt is moving to a new Pet Licencing program.
This system will be ready in January, so the pet licencing deadline WHAT: MSS GRAD WALK has been extended to February 28, 2021. WHEN: June 20, 2019 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm The new Docupet system will allow you to register online, by mail, WHERE: Merritt Senior Secondary High School to Nicola Valley Memorial Arena by phone, or in person at City Hall. In addition, the new tags will be permanent tags with a choice of our standard municipal tag or choose from hundreds of designer tags for your dog. We will be mailing/emailing all current Pet Owners a letter with a registration code and will be sending out updates via the City of Merritt social media channels.
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
More info is available at www.docupet.com/ca WHAT: MSS GRAD CAR PARADE
WHEN: June 21, 2019 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm WHERE: Merritt Rotary Park (2000 Block of Voght Street) to Merritt Civic Centre (1950 Mamette Avenue) NOTE: Parking will be reserved at Rotary Park and the Church from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm on June 22, 2019
CITY HALL COVID-19 HOURS
City Hall will be reopened with limited hours. City Hall will be open to the public from 10:00 am to noon. Although the Merritt City Hall is open, residents are encouraged to send inquires via phone or email. Payments can be made online at www.merritt.ca/city-services/ online-payment-options
WATERING RESTRICTIONS
6:00AM - 8:00AM and 7:00PM - 10:00PM
EVEN ADDRESSES Mon/Wed/Fri ODD ADDRESSES 2021 BUDGET SURVEY COMING SOON Tues/Thurs/Sat Community Policing Office Reopens The City of Merritt would like to hear fromAUTOMATIC community members SPRINKLERS: on the 2021 Budget. As of Monday, July 27th, 2020 the City of Merritt Community Policing Office Mark your calendars for the week of February 22nd for the 2021 Budget Survey. on your respective days (CPO) will reopen to the public. The Community Policing Office will be open Information will be available soon at www.merritt.ca by appointment only for bike registrations, crime prevention information, midnight to 4:00 AM and program inquiries. Tourism Merritt VISIT MERRITT *NO SPRINKLING SUNDAYS � ToConnect book an appointment phone thewebsite 250-378-3955 orTOURISM email with us on our new tourism and social media.cpo@merritt.ca. TOURISM FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO www.tourismmerritt.com • #ExploreMerritt TH For more information on the CPO programs and services please visit Effective May 1ST to September T 30T www.merritt.ca/community-policing
Including safe visiting advice and local services www.tourismmerritt.ca
VISIT TOURISM MERRITT VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO
#ExploreMerritt
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THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 5
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
2020 deadliest year in BC history for overdoses The Minister of Mental Health said that before the pandemic, we were making progress. Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER 2020 has emerged as the worst year in BC’s history for overdose deaths, with 1,716 people losing their lives due to the effects of toxic illicit drugs. This represents a 74% increase from the number of illicit drug toxicity deaths in 2019, in which 984 deaths were recorded. The 2020 numbers work out to about 4.7 deaths per day, two deaths higher per day than in 2019 which equalled roughly 2.7 deaths per day. On April 14, 2016 BC’s Provincial Health Officer declared a public health emergency in response to the rise of drug overdoses and death. In the nearly five years since that declaration, the opioid crisis rages on, with more
than 6,600 people dying of overdose from 2016 to 2020. Toxic illicit drugs have now claimed more lives in BC than motor-vehicle crashes, homicides, suicides, and prescription-drug related deaths combined. 2020 was a difficult year for many, with a global pandemic, economic and employment uncertainty, and social isolation causing many to suffer the effects of loneliness, stress and depression. “The impacts of COVID-19 highlighted the immensely precarious situation of those experiencing problematic substance use in our province” said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner. “Decades of criminalization, an increasingly toxic illicit drug market and the lack of timely access to evidence-based treatment and recovery services have resulted in the loss of thousands of lives in B.C. It’s clear that urgent change is needed to prevent future deaths and the resulting grief and loss so many
families and communities have experienced across our province.” “One of the most insidious impacts of the pandemic has been increased toxicity due to disruption in the supply chain for illicit drugs across the country,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “We stepped up our response to this emergency in B.C., but the illicit drug supply is dramatically more toxic than a year ago – and tragically, more lethal. Combined with the stigma that drives people to use alone and a pandemic that isolates them even further, you have a recipe for a terrible surge in overdose deaths. “Before the pandemic, we were making progress. In 2019, for the first time since 2012, we brought overdose deaths down. And according to the BC Centre for Disease Control, increases in naloxone distribution, added supervised consumption and more treatment options have
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Bags worth of fentanyl are shown in a circulated RCMP file photo.
averted more than 6,000 deaths. We are going to keep going and building the culturally safe, evidence-based system of mental health and addictions care that works and saves lives. At the same time, we know people are hurting now and there’s more to do.” Communities in BC which experienced the highest number of illicit drug toxicity deaths were Vancouver, Surrey and Victoria. Overdose death rates have been trending downward in individuals aged 19 – 59, while rates among persons aged 60 and up have been trending upwards. The Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
Courtesy Corner
website offers advice to drug users on how to stay safe. - Know the signs of an overdose and how to respond - Get a naloxone kit
- Go slow and don’t mix substances - Never use alone - Get your drugs checked - Consider prescription alternatives.
Nicola Valley Women in Action
CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Friday March 8, 2021
March 8, 2021 marks the 17th celebration honouring women in the Nicola Valley. If you have any amazing women in your life that you would like to recognize, please let us know. Our celebration will look different this year to meet the COVID-19 restrictions, but we still believe that it is important to recognize those women in our community who are working diligently to create and support positive changes and a healthy community. Please nominate those women who have positively influenced your life, the lives around you, or the community. Nominations may be sent to: nvwomeninaction@gmail.com by February 22, 2021
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6 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
GOVERNMENT
ALBAS: Open by default? One interesting aspect about a minority government is the ability for the opposition parties to out DAN ALBAS vote the govVIEW FROM ernment in parliamentary THE HILL committees. In Ottawa, we are seeing many documents being released that relate to how the Trudeau Liberal government has been responding to the pandemic. These documents were released because the opposition party members on the Parliamentary Health Committee were able to pass a motion that these documents would be made public, against the wishes of the Liberal members of the committee, who wanted to keep them secret. This week we learned more. One of these released documents, an email, was quite alarming. A section of this email read: “The rationale here is to present a new metric to distract somewhat from unattractive delivery numbers being reported. Hajdu goes into QP with these numbers, updated weekly, so we’re in safe territory:” This email related to challenges the federal Government was encountering at the time with the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE). What’s alarming is that knowing that media reports were not flattering, the response of the Liberal Government was to deliberately manipulate the data to create a distraction.
Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
MERRITT HERALD
VIEWPOINT
www.merrittherald.com
STUDENTS AND TEACHERS: SUBMIT YOUR ART TO NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED EACH WEEK! (BIANCA CAVALIERE, GRADE 10, MERRITT SECONDARY.) SUBMISSIONS ARE PRINTED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS. This Liberal plan involved sending manipulated numbers with the Health Minister into Question Period. Global News has also obtained documents that they reported as: “Senior political staffers from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s office and the office of another federal Liberal cabinet minister privately discussed how to withhold information from Canadians about the government’s response to the COVID-19 crisis last June, newly released emails show.” From my perspective this is part of a reoccurring pattern. Despite this Prime Minister promis-
Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
ing to be “open by default”, we instead see a culture of secrecy within his government. As the Opposition, it is our responsibility to hold the government accountable. This is a fundamental part of democracy. Canadians deserve to know how their money is being spent and what actions the federal government is undertaking on their behalf. Even more alarming is a Liberal Government majority would have withheld this information and Canadians would be in the dark on what was
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
really going on, aside from the Prime Ministers official announcements. My question this week: How important is it to you that government truly is “Open by default” with its citizens? I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl. gc.ca or call toll free 1-800-665-8711. Dan Albas is the Member of Parliament for the riding of Central Okanagan Similkameen Nicola. This riding includes the communities of Kelowna (specific boundaries), West Kelowna, Peachland, Summerland, Keremeos, Princeton, Merritt and Logan Lake.
Sales Representative Office Administrator Ken Couture kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com 250-378-4241 Making Advertising Work For You.
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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.
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LETTERS
THURSDAY Date, 2021 • 7
OPINION
Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com
to the Editor
A well-written letter Care home neglect present Dear Editor, The Letter to the Editor entitled “Development Woes” and written by Jennifer Halliday is exceptionally well written and extremely accurate. Spot on! I would encourage Jennifer Halliday to present her letter to City Council and staff so it can be officially recorded. Her letter might make some City Council members
and staff think twice about their attitude and about how they form their decisions, and most importantly how their decisions impact the citizens of Merritt. The letter written by Jennifer Halliday clearly indicates she is reaching out to City Council and staff to listen to the citizens of Merritt. Their voices are important and should not be dismissed by some on
Council and City staff. As the Letter to the Editor states, “it is wrong to ask the people you represent to offer their insight only to condemn them for it.” I urge Merritt Herald readers to read the Letter to the Editor entitled “Development Woes” dated Thursday, February 11, 2021. Lloyd Charney
in Canada pre-COVID-19 Dear Editor,
What I really admire about some non-Western cultures is their general belief in and practice of not placing their aged family members in seniors care homes. As a result, family caregivers don’t have to worry over those lovedones being left vulnerable by cost-cutting measures taken by some care-home business owners to maximize profits. As for care-home
neglect, it was present here in Canada before Covid-19; however, we didn’t fully comprehend the degree until the pandemic really hit, as we horrifically discovered with the CHSLD Résidence Herron in Dorval, Quebec, about 10 months ago. Business mentality and, by extension, collective society, allowed the well-being of our oldest family members to be decided by corporate profit-margin measures. And our gov-
ernments mostly dared not intervene, perhaps because they feared being labelled as antibusiness in our avidly capitalist culture. But, as clearly evidenced by the many needless care-home resident Covid-19 deaths, big business does not always know or practice what’s best for its consumers, including the most vulnerable with little or no voice. Frank Sterle
Answers wanted about growing Merritt Dear Editor, Jennifer Halliday’s letter of Feb, 11 is bang on. Council needs to listen to citizen comments, and publicly respond to citizens’ questions and concerns. I assume, (I hope that I’m correct in so doing), that Council does have answers to concerns re:water, sewer, roads, taxes, etc. etc. that have been raised by many folks during the recent Development Proposals; proposals that it has approved carte blanche. to wit: “ I am very concerned about something else; and my concern is promulgated by the abject absence of information from the
City of Merritt. Just what population does Council want Merritt to be? Why? What is the rationale for this? ie Do we have elements in our City that are not yet costeffective---that will be resolved by the target population? Which ones? And; because we have all experienced severe water rationing, I want to know just what new wells and reservoirs and main water lines will be needed to serve these proposals? Who will pay for these; when, and how? Or do we have to share the minimal water we now have with these new developments? And what sewer infrastructure will be needed; at what cost; and who pays? And
schools; and fire halls, and policing, etc. etc. Surely our Council must already have these answers; so tell us, now, please. And if they don’t, then I submit that they should not even entertain consideration of such major subdivisions, until they do have ALL the information---and share it with us, as public knowledge, on the City website. Please.” I urge Council to let it’s citizens have the answers, so we can all work together for a bigger and better Merritt. Darch Oborne
From the Herald archives: Feb., 1935
FAMILIES VISIT KIDS AT SCHOOL The week of February 3rd to 8th is designated by the government as Education Week. This fact was made known to the parents of Lower Nicola school children, and the doors were open to any who wished to visit. Parents and friends took advantage of the opportunity to see their children at work. The usual classes were held, and the parents were able to see the youngsters just as they work every day. Examples of work done by the pupils in arts, projects and written work, were displayed.
LETTERS POLICY The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.
John Isaac
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Johnisaac@telus.net
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8 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 Lower Nicola Band School
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KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION 2021-2022
THE LOWER NICOLA BAND SCHOOL INVITES ALL CHILDREN (First Nations/Non First Nations) To Register for
“FREE” Daily
HOT LUNCH PROGRAM and SNACK PROGRAM
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT CLIMBING WALL BASKETBALL COURT SPINNER
KINDERGARTEN to Grade 7
• Full-time Kindergarten – must be 5 yrs by Dec 31, 2021 • Bus Services provided to all areas of Merritt.
HEAD START SERVICES: • • • •
3 & 4 year old Program (K4 must be 4 yrs old by Dec. 31, 2021) Home Visiting Program Transportation provided for all Head Start programs Mom’s & Tot’s Services 0 to 6 years old
CURRICULUM: • • • • • • • •
New BC Curriculum Nle?kepmx Cultural Studies Field Trips Learning Assistance Program School supplies provided SKATING/HOCKEY PROGRAM Joyful Literacy
FACILITIES: • Full-Size Gymnasium • Library • Baseball/Soccer Field
Education Comes First
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Lower Nicola Band School Ph: 250-378-5527 201 Horn Rd., Merritt, BC
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 9
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
FRIENDS & Neighbours Farmers’ Market up for trio of awards Valentines gifts for local elders
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER
The Nicola Valley Farmers’ Market (NVFM) has been nominated for three awards from the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM): Small Farmers’ Market of the Year, Farmers’ Market Manager of the Year for Market Manager Val Grimshire, and Farmer’s Larder for Farmer Vendor of the Year. NVFM President Garrett Grimshire spoke to the Herald to express his thanks for the support the community provided during the rollercoaster of a year that was 2020. “This year, with everything surrounding COVID, I think it was really just that sense of community from the get-go, that really made it,” said Garrett. The support went both ways, with organizers working hard to make the best of the situation and provide a sales outlet at a time when many other events were shut down. “As a support for small business and agriculture in the community that was actually allowed to operate, unlike say Garlic Festival or some of the other templates that got shut down by COVID con-
trols, every step we took had that mindset of, how do we help the most people? Because we’re actually in a position to. As a small market, we may not be able to do an incredible amount, but we could at least give people a space to run their small business that they wouldn’t have otherwise.” If the NVFM wins Small Farmers’ Market of the Year, Garrett is hopeful that it will increase the market’s reputation, and therefore draw more vendors. Despite the challenges associated with running an event during a pandemic, Garrett is eager to grow the market and showcase all that the Nicola Valley has to offer. “We can say, despite the fact that we’re a small market, we’re a great small market and here’s the trophy to prove it,” explained Garrett. “If you’re looking for a smaller market that isn’t so congested, where you’re not competing with three other vendors who are trying to sell the same product as you, we’re definitely worth consideration.” As for Market Manager, Val, 2020 was a year of ‘trial by fire’, as she stepped into the role for the first time just as COVID was making its way around the See ‘MARKET’ Page 12
Melody Simon
D L O S
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER Students at Nicola-Canford Elementary school in Lower Nicola were doing their best to spread the love on Valentine’s Day, despite the impacts of a global pandemic. “As part of the mental health work that we are doing to support our students during this difficult time, we are helping them to find ways to give to others who may be less fortunate than we are,” said Nicola-Canford Principal Burt Bergmann. “With the COVID protocols in place in our school, we have been unable to invite in the local elders that typically join us in the building and connect with our students. Although we have had many of them join us via Zoom, we have missed the in-person contact that we value so
highly. We know that our elders also miss connecting with the kids, so we decided to share our love, respect and thanks for our elders in an effort to encourage them as they have become increasingly isolated due to the pandemic.” To show that they were still thought of and appreciated, and to ensure that no elder missed out on celebrating a day renowned for displays of love and affection, students were busy making Valentine’s Day cards and crafts. These heartfelt gifts were then delivered to elders of the Lower Nicola Indian Band. “We value our elders, we value the work they do, and we want to encourage them in any way that we can,” Bergmann continued. “We miss them and want them to know we look forward to the day that they can join us back in the building.”
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10 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
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CITY BUSINESS
Online options discussed in possible Procedure Bylaw changes Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD. COM The City of Merritt is looking to amend its Procedural Bylaw to more clearly lay out how staff and Council meet. Director of Corporate Services Greg Lowis presented a new Bylaw layout at the last regular Council meeting, outlining certain changes that could be implemented. “The revised Bylaw takes into account modern best practices, updates to technology, and provides answers currently absent as to the conduct of debate, and process of motions at Council meetings,” reads an attachment to the meeting agenda from Lowis. It was in March of 2020 that Council first requested amendments be made to the City’s Procedure Bylaw, with
COVID-19 forcing meetings online. In September of 2020, it was requested that a complete review of the Bylaw be conducted. Lowis said that the current Bylaw is “creaking under the weight of modern events.” Cited in the attachment as “designed around the principles of transparency and comprehensibility”, some of the key features of the new Procedural Bylaw are: - The legally required designated Notice place moving from the glass cabinet beside the Chamber door inside City Hall to www.merritt.ca - A clear set of principles for debate outlining how and when motions should be made, which applies to both Council and committee meetings - Rules of debate are expanded, making clear in particular how referrals to other
bodies, and deferrals to later meetings are handled - Reconsideration is expanded, to clarify how it may be done, in what way, and what would be the consequence of particular votes - An expanded Notice of Motion section, requiring written text and certainty and clarity about the proposal before members vote - The potential for online meetings and virtual participation fully integrated into the document, instead of being tacked onto the end - Revised procedures for online meetings and voting to help any such meetings run smoothly - References to additional policies to enable staff to provide logistical and drafting support to members without risking a suggestion of political favours
WELCOME TO
KINDERGARTEN 2021 STUDENT REGISTRATION The Board of Education of School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) Kindergarten establishes a strong foundation for lifelong learning, as teachers provide dynamic, play-based opportunities to help each child grow and learn. Our child-centered programs develop a sense of well-being and belonging and offer opportunities for exploring, creative play, developing language and literacy while focusing on social responsibility and cultural diversity. Kindergarten provides our young learners with an enriched learning experience at their own unique developmental level. We look forward to working with each Kindergarten child’s family as we welcome you to your child’s new school community. Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview of our online registration process.
REGISTRATION SCHEDULE Monday to Friday: March 1 to 12, 2021
For September, 2021
• • • •
To register, a child must be 5 years of age on, or before, December 31, 2021. Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview of our online registration process. If you are unable to register online, please contact John Allison. When registering online you will need your child’s Birth Certificate, immunization record, Care Card and proof of address when registering. • Parents interested in a Kindergarten distance education program for their child, can contact the South Central Interior Distance Education School at 250-378-4245.
If you have any questions, please contact John Allison 250-295-6727
- Increased consistency between Council and Committee provisions, by unifying substantial chunks of duplicated procedure. Lowis noted that staff anticipates comments from the public about the first item on this list, in going digital with official notices. On one side of the board, it would exclude non-computer users, yet on the
other, the current method of viewing them in-person is also exclusionary. Council was all in favour of moving forward with revising the Bylaw, though no new changes can be made until two weeks after an official public notice is given. There are no financial implications to the revised Bylaw.
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POLICE FILES
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 11
One dead following multi-vehicle Coquihalla crash The accident involved approximately 50 individuals, as well as several responding vehicles to the scene. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM BC Media Relations has released the details as to what caused the deadly Feb. 10 accident on Hwy. 5. Traffic reopened northbound at the scene between Hope and Merritt around 10p.m. the same evening. The crash claimed one life, with others injured seriously. RCMP say that it was reported that the incident began with a report of a semi truck stopped in the northbound lanes of Highway 5 in the S-curves.
An officer from Fraser Valley Traffic Services responded and came upon the scene to find that during the time it took him to get there, a pickup truck had collided into the rear of the stopped semi truck. The driver of the pickup truck, a man in his forties from the South Okanagan, along with his dog perished in the accident. The road conditions in the area of the collision were treacherous and caught many unaware, which resulted in a “cascading, chain-reaction collision” involving at least two dozen vehicles, including passenger vehicles, semi trucks, and a bus. As he was approaching the scene, the officer was taken off guard and due to severe road conditions he also collided with the concrete barrier. He was then hit from behind by a semi truck unable to stop that jack
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knifed, injuring the officer who said he watched through his rearview mirror as the semi truck approached. A number of rescue vehicles, including tow trucks and an ambulance, were also involved in the crash. Approximately 50 people have been confirmed to be involved in the collision. Five people were taken to hospital with significant injuries, however only one remains in hospital with bro-
ken bones and is expected to recover. RCMP say that a combination of severe road and weather conditions, along with speed, played a factor in the crash. No further updates will be provided.
12 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Market succeeds despite pandemic
OPEN FOR VIRTUAL
From Page 9 world. Unlike previous years, restrictions set by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, meant that only food vendors would be allowed to sell their goods when market season kicked off, although when the weather began to warm and case numbers decreased somewhat in June, nonfood vendors were permitted to return. “The way that our produce here works is that when our market started in May we didn’t have a lot of food specific vendors, so we started out as a really, really small market,” explained Val, who noted that they had to utilize new marketing strategies to keep people informed and draw customers. “Once the vendors were allowed back, the market was allowed to go ahead with its full array of vendors again, but then we had the restrictions of handwashing and hand sanitization stations, we had to operate with people flowing in one direction so there was a lot of set up to do… it was a lot of work before and after the market to set it up.” Despite these difficulties, the NVFM successfully hosted a ‘Market goes Garlic’ event to help those farmers hardest hit by the shutdown of Garlic Festivals around the province, and an end of summer market designed to draw new vendors or those with excess produce as the harvest season was in full swing. “I’m most proud of the larger markets that we did,” said Val. “We ran a market around the same time that normally the Garlic Festival operates, where we focused on local garlic growers. And then we did one at the end of the season that was about bringing in the harvest.” These markets were held on Quilchena Ave., where the Summer Nights Markets were held in previous years. “There was a lot of organization that went into that,” said Val. “We tried to bring more local people that don’t sell year-round at our Farmers’ Market, to bring those people together and create a larger market. Even though COVID was making things smaller in a lot of communities, we actually saw some growth, and it was really great to see the community come together to support us, and a lot of vendors come out for that as well.” Restrictions limiting vendors to strictly consumable goods are back in place, and while there is hope that by summer BC will be back to normal for small, community based events like the Farmers’ Market, the Grimshires aren’t counting their chickens before they hatch. “Now that we’re in the midst of the second wave it’s going to be even more challenging this year,” said Garrett.
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• • • • •
Work Clothing & Gear Job Search Assistance Disability Supports Self Employment Resource Room
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“But, after a challenging year like 2020 a lot of us are just kind of happy to see that the amount of effort that was put in is being recognized.” The Awards ceremony will be virtual this year, and take place at the end of the 2021 BC Farmers’ Markets Virtual Conference on Friday, Feb. 19.
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THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 13
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CEN TURY 21 Moving Real Estate Don Gossoo, Managing Broker
movingrealestate.c21.ca
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On 1 acre overlooking Nicola Lake. This West Coast contemporary home features open design, 3 bedrms on main + 2 down, 4 baths, S/S appliances, vaulted ceilings and walkout bsmt.
Great 3 bedrm, 2 bath family home on a quiet street in central location. Lots of options for carport, shop or carriage house. Lots of storage. 2 wrap around decks overlooking large back yard.
Riverfront property in nice Lower Nicola location on approx. 2 acres with great shop with 3 phase power supply. Comes with unfinished rancher of 1686 sq.ft. House is framed and with roof. Home plans available. Septic is installed.
Established & well maintained Dry Cleaning and Coin Laundry, a turnkey business. 3200 sq.ft. concrete block building with steel truss roof with possibility of expansion to include living quarters. Great opportunity for a good family business.
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Investors – side by side duplex in downtown Merritt close to shopping & amenities. Great revenue property. Each side has 2 bedrms, carport & laundry plus separate meters. Close to bus route
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$295,000
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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.
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2288 BURGESS AVE
1863 MENZIES STREET
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A rare waterfront lot of 0.94 acres waiting for development with over 50 metres of river frontage, not subdividable. In neighbourhood of high end custom homes. Call for more details.
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$739,9000 + GST
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$739,900
6427 MONCK PARK ROAD
Well maintained strata end unit with larger yard & gazebo. Main floor has 2 pce powder room, open concept kitchen/living room & nook. Included appliances. Has gas F/P skylights & BI vac. 3 bedrms up and 2 baths. Strata fees are $235 per mon.
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900 KANE VALLEY RD
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200 VEALE ROAD
D SOL Build your lakeview dream home on this 1 acre lot overlooking Nicola Lake with views of the valley. Boat launch is just minutes sway. Great lake for swimming, boating, waterskiing & fishing. Just 2.5 hrs from Lower Mainland.
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14 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
www.merrittherald.com
Ruby Royals safely spread Valentine cheer
CONTRIBUTOR
rated with hearts and balloons. Valentine Angel Anne Christy clustered the addresses and navigated the streets superbly, deftly maneuvering around (sometimes over) small berms. With Cupid Cyril George as co-pilot, the route was seamlessly executed. Angel Val Martinick roused the house and announced our
approach with vigorous ringing of the Valentine Bell. Angel (and Queen) June McLeod rang the doorbells, knocked on doors and presented our wee gift. There was only one person not at home. It was a successful and very satisfying Valentine’s Day. The Ruby Royals are the Merritt Chapter of a nation-
al organization called the Crown Jewels of Canada Society. A social network of uniquely individual, mature women who gather to chat, laugh, commiserate, provide comfort, give opinions, tell tales and jokes - all in the company of female community. While we may not be gathering, our hearts can still be full.
Sunday, February 14, three Ruby Royals ladies exchanged their red, white and purple for hearts and wings. Along with Cupid, who did indeed bring his bow and arrows, we delivered a small Valentine’s gift to 21 of our RR Sister’s. Two surprises were mailed to our Kamloops ladies. Before Covid, we were lunching monthly at different View your feature best friend @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca restaurants around town for fun and friendship. Oh, and food. You may have seen us: a large To make an appointment group of women to meet your new best friend dressed entirely in Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 red, white and pur(250) 574-1316 ple. Many of the hats email: aarsrescue@gmail.com being particularly eye-catching. With so many “Breaking the months gone by Chain of Abuse” without gathering, it was decided that a Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. safely distanced faceWe are a Registered Charity - 847488269RR0001. to-face Valentine’s greeting was exactly This feature brought to you by... what was needed to bring a smile to each ◆ Jewelry ◆◆ Gifts Native ◆ Jewelry Gifts NativeArt Art face and to convey ◆ Glasses ◆ ◆ Contacts ◆ Glasses Contacts support for our group. Jeanine Gustafson Jeanine Gustafson Optician/Contact Lens Fitter/ABO/NCLE Optician/Contact Lens Fitter/ABO/NCLE You may have visionquestoptical@gmail.com visionquestoptical@gmail.com seen us driving all around town and Vision 250-378-2022 Phone: 250-378-2022 Vision Q Quest Optical & Gifts Phone: Q Quest Optical & Gifts beyond; the car deco2001 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, Authentic Art Gallery 2001 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BCBC Authentic NativeNative Art Gallery
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AGRICULTURE
Merritt 4-H moniker U R T A L L U C D I A R Y G A a nod to grasslands FEBRUARY 23, 2021
Help Support Local Agriculture Let’s raise a fork to the food we love and the people who produce it! On February 23, 2021. Agriculture Day is about recognizing and celebrating the contribution of agriculture in our everyday lives. Two Grassland Homesteaders prep a sheep for a 4-H show. Photo submitted
HONEY TO BUZZ ABOUT!
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER
Pure and unpasteurized, Nicola Valley Honey is produced entirely in the valley surrounding Merritt. Its fine quality, flavour and texture are the result of a combination of climate, soils and flowers, typical to this southern interior dry belt region.
Available locally at:
Baillie House, Brambles Bakery, Creative Company, Local Butcher, Nicola Valley Meats, Pharmasave, Quilchena General Store, Save On Foods.
Nicola Valley Honey is available in a variety of sizes, from 50g to 15kg. Creamed honey, comb honey and beeswax candles are also produced by Nicola Valley Apiaries
Nicola Valley Apiaries Alan and Meg Paulson, 860 Coldwater Road, Merritt • 250 378-5208
4-H has been an integral part of many agricultural communities for more than 100 years. In BC, the program began in 1914, during that first year more than 200 youth aged ten to 18 were involved in competitions that were at that time sponsored by the Department of Agriculture. The original focus was on the rather exciting production of the potato, but soon expanded to include poultry, and then swine, beef, dairy, and corn. Eventually the ‘Boys and Girls’ Clubs became 4-H Clubs in 1952, reflecting the priorities of the Clubs. 4-H stands for ‘head, heart, hands and health’. Members recite a secular Pledge of Allegiance at each meeting: “I pledge my Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty, my Hands to larger service, and my Health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.” Merritt, which historically had its roots in farming and ranching and continues
to boast a strong agricultural sector, has its own 4-H Club: The Grassland Homesteader’s; a nod to the Nicola Valley’s rolling grassland hills which have sustained cattle, sheep and horses for more than a century. Although the number of members enrolled in the local 4-H Club have been decreasing, new leader Erica Martindale believes that the club serves an important purpose, and is poised for a resurgence in popularity and members. In the meantime, however, 4-H BC has relaxed the requirements and is allowing the club to run with fewer members due to the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning that there will be an active club in the Nicola Valley this year. “As an organization they realize less parents will be inclined to register their kids for an organized program, just because there is more uncertainty around how we’re going to operate and the whole nine yards,” explained Martindale. “It was really great for us because we have really low enrollment, it means that we
don’t actually have to fold the club, we can continue to operate with just limited members.” Although the number of members may be smaller than in years past, the opportunities to pursue a new hobby or passion are endless. Being part of the KamloopsOkanagan division of 4-H Clubs means that there are numerous projects for members to choose from. A 4-H ‘project’ is an area of focus, typically livestock related such as sheep, swine, dairy, goat, beef, horse, rabbit, dog or poultry. However, other projects include photography, crafts, gardening, and leathercraft. “Within any 4-H Club it’s kind of like the sky’s the limit in terms of what projects members can work on,” said Martindale. “So long as you have leadership and volunteers that are willing to help out and help the kids along.” Martindale, a 4-H alumni herself, was inspired to become a leader so that her own children could experience the same enjoyment she had had in the Grassland
See ‘4-H’ Page 16
16 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
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AGRICULTURE
4-H a staple of farming community New apiary, yet plenty of experience From Page 15 Homesteader’s Club. “For me it’s pretty exciting, because now my kids are going to be coming of age to participate and it’s neat to come full circle and be able to help out as a leader,” said Martindale. “I grew up in the Nicola Valley and when I was a kid, I was a member. I did primarily beef 4-H, but at that point in time our Club was flourishing. I think at its prime we had close to 40 members.” Martindale notes that there had been an ebb and flow of membership and that the Club has gone through some changes in the past several decades, but she hopes that she can serve as an effective leader
and expand the Club’s offerings. “My hope for this year, for me personally, is that I can get my footing as a leader and learn a little bit more about the program and the things that we can offer,” said Martindale. “For the 2022 year I’m hoping we can offer a beef, a horse and a sheep program for sure. Those are kind of my areas that I’m more comfortable with. I believe wholeheartedly in what 4-H stands for, and what it encourages in the youth in our community. What I’m hoping to see in the club is not only the kids learning by doing in agriculture, but also community service, giving back to the community however we can. And kids
making social connections that they maybe wouldn’t before because it’s going to bring kids together from all over the valley.” When questioned about her own experiences and how being a member as a young woman was beneficial to her, Martindale was overflowing with praise for the program. “First and foremost, in agriculture it gives kids hands on learning experiences,” said Martindale. “I think it gives them self-efficacy and selfreliance in terms of it gives them the skills and the knowledge and the practice to be able to do things for themselves, and it kind of goes along with the 4-H motto (learn to do
by doing). Not only with their animals, but when they’re in meetings they’re learning how to conduct themselves in a professional manner, from our public speaking program they’re learning communication skills, they’re networking with other youth across our region, I think that’s really important. And learning to also work like a team, relying on each other and leaning on older members to provide leadership for younger members.” To learn more about the Grassland Homesteader’s Club, or to become a member or volunteer as a leader, contact Erica at ericahuber@msn. com.
We are proud to celebrate Agriculture Day in our Community. The City of Merritt Mayor and Council are proud of all of our local producers and suppliers that sustain us with fresh, local food choices!
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER
Coquihalla Apiaries is a family-operated apiary that started up in the Nicola Valley just last year, but beekeeper Gavin Walter has gained many years of experience with the honey producing insects. “I’ve been working in the beekeeping industry since I finished high school here in Merritt, in 2007,” said Walter. “I applied for a summer job, listed in the local paper, for Nicola Valley Apiaries. I kept returning to work my summers at the farm while attending university.” Walter’s interest in bees grew, and he became more involved in their care and production, even taking the opportunity to travel internationally with a few hives. Walter found some hives for himself and believed there was a
potential to develop an apiary of his own in the Valley. Soon, he brought his partner Sarah Desrosiers on board and turned the beekeeping into a family affair. “I moved to the Nicola Valley seven years ago,” said Sarah. “I traded my life as an ethnoecologist and educator in the Canadian Arctic to breathe in the sweet smell of, and consume, copious amounts of fresh honey.” A trade off she believes was worthwhile. “Today, I’m working on creating palm-free honey soaps and salves inspired by the hive. I’m also behind the making of our candles and beeswax wraps. I’m also learning all I can about bees, especially queen rearing.” The practice of keeping bees is more than a matter of providing hives and extracting honey.
See ‘BEES’ Page 17
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AGRICULTURE
Bees a passion at Coquihalla Apiaries From Page 16 Bees require a high level of knowledge and care, as they can be a complex and extremely important component of agriculture. “Inside each box are ten wooden frames, like a picture frame; each of which hangs on a lip inside the box,” said Walter. “Inside each ‘picture frame’ the bees produce honeycomb by secreting tiny wax flakes out of special glands on their bodies. In each of these hives, there should only be a single queen. Sometimes there are more but that’s a whole other story, and usually a problem for the beekeeper. “The queen lays close to 1500 eggs a day in the
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 17
summer. These eggs hatch in the form of worker bees (females) or drones (males). A hive at the peak of summer could have up to 60,000 bees living in it. To make a new queen, the worker bees select a special egg, probably a healthy one, and feed it a special concoction of nutrients beekeepers call ‘Royal Jelly’. This Royal Jelly combined with a special queen cell, is what determines whether an egg becomes a worker bee or a queen. Hives can produce a lot of honey over the course of the summer, more than they could ever use. The amount of honey is determined somewhat by the beekeeper but mostly the climate and floral sources of
a given area.” For the first few years, that excess honey was used by the couple and sold to family and friends; it was only in 2020 that they felt confident enough in the volume of their production to
respectful relationship between ourselves, the bees and the environment. The beekeeper helps the bees to survive and excel and, in the end,, we are rewarded with a little bit of honey.” However, along with
launch Coquihalla Apiaries. “We believe that if we look after the bees they will look after us,” said Walter. “As beekeepers, it is important to create a
the sweetness of the honey comes the sting of the bees themselves, which Walter notes he experiences roughly 260 times a summer. Beekeeping is not for the
HAPPY
faint of heart! “The bees that we work with have been kept in the Nicola Valley for over 40 years,” explained Walter. “They tend to do very well in the territory because they have been bred for the local environment: cold, dry winters and hot, dry summers.” Although they are always on the go raising two children, managing an apiary and juggling Desrosiers’ government job, the family does their best to put down their ‘busy as bees’ lifestyle and enjoy what nature has to offer. “Outside the apiary we enjoy camping, hiking and skiing as a family,” said Walter. “Our business, two children, one-year-old Ruth and three-year-old Thomas, and Sarah’s full-time job for the BC Government have absolutely crushed every hobby we have ever had, just
kidding… kind of; we get out skiing once in a while and love ending up in the Kane Valley as often as we can,” Walter continued. “Most of all we enjoy being outside because we are able to enjoy the Nicola Valley throughout the seasons. We’ve learned to notice things like the first dandelions flowering, in the early spring and the first signs of fall and use them as indicators for our beekeeping activities. Beekeeping for us is a lifestyle. We especially love that we can operate our honey farm as a family, going as far as taking our kids out to the bee yard to graft queens. We have the chance to see some pretty amazing things these tiny little insects can do. For example, watching a worker bee carrying a dead drone twice its size or watching an empty honey box be filled with close to 70 lbs of honey in just a few days.”
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18 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
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THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 19
AGRICULTURE
Empty Keg Brewhouse opts for local hops Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER The Empty Keg Brewhouse on Voght St. has been serving up a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic delights for almost two years, and in that time, they have developed mutually beneficial relationships with Merritt’s agricultural community. These relationships have allowed them to utilize local ingredients, providing your favourite drinks with a regional flair. Whether you enjoy a cold beer, wine, cider or hard liquor, they all have their origins in fruit and grains. Grapes, barley, hops, rye or even vegetables such as corn and potatoes are a key ingredient in your cocktails and after work brewskis, meaning the connection between agriculture and alcohol is a close one. The Empty Keg has always promoted itself as Merritt’s local watering hole, and true to that idea, they have made use of Nicola Valley grown ingredients in several of their products. “We use local hops from Sunshine Valley Hops,” said owner and Head Brewer Kyle Hall. “Centennial, Cashmere and Tahoma varieties that go into making our Cents Lager, Dingo pale Ale and our Hoppy Daze
IPA. We also use Nicola Valley Apiaries honey in our Ruby’s Irish Red Ale, Honey Don’t Change The Locks Blonde Ale and our seasonal Saison. Our Brhubarb Saison uses donated rhubarb and raspberries from our customers.” Using fresh and readily available product was always part of Hall’s plan, for several reasons. “At the development stage of this business we wanted to incorporate as many local products as we could,” said Hall. “There are a number of reasons for this as far as our beer is concerned. Locally grown hops have very unique characteristics. So, for instance, a Centennial variety grown in Oregon is quite different in the aroma and oils produced from the same variety grown in the Nicola Valley. This is because of our exceptional climate, soil properties and the length of the growing season. It then yields a site-specific profile to the beer,” explained Hall. “The same really goes for the honey from Nicola Valley Apiaries that invokes a ‘drier’ flavour to other honey varieties that give the beers we use it in a distinctive flavour. As to the use of donated rhubarb, it really seems to grow like a weed and a lot is not fully utilized, so why not incorporate it in a local brew?” Most importantly, Hall notes, as members
of the community the Empty Keg family wants to support the city, producers and people, “without them we would not be”. They further support a local food loop by offering up brewing by-products for agricultural use. “Our spent hops go to local mushroom farmers for growing media, and chicken farms for feed,” said Hall. “Our spent grains go to a number of local farmers including buffalo, pig, poultry and cattle producers. Our partnerships with local producers started even before opening the doors. We were both sought out by farmers regarding our usable by-products and we also aggressively sought out to culture
those relationships. We continue to be offered opportunities to use and donate by-products locally,” Hall continued, who also noted that many home bakers use leftover brewing yeast in their breads and baking. “We pride ourselves in being able to ‘close the loop’ as we focus on using local products, create a home-grown product and return any derivatives for use by locals. This is an ongoing process as we see more local producers of our ingredients coming on-line, so to speak.” So, if you’re looking to quench your thirst and support both a local business and local agriculture, then look no further than the Empty Keg Brewhouse.
COQUIHALLA CATTLE CO. has produced beef in the Nicola Valley since 1983. We’re also proud to support Canada’s Agricultural Day on February 23rd, 2021.
Thank you The Cooke Family
20 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY JUSTICE SERVICES SOCIETY
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THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 21
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STRATEGIES STRATEGIESFOR FORONLINE ONLINE ONLINE && MOBILE MOBILE SAFETY SAFETY CYBER SAFETY STRATEGIESCYBER FOR & MOBILE SAFETY SAFETY CYBER SAFETY CYBER SAFETY CYBER SAFETY SAFETY STRATEGIES CYBER FOR ONLINE & MOBILE SAFETY
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You could do this this by them, deserve toto be You could do phoning them, •• •Save site.site. • • Help Help thethe person person being being bullied bullied understand understand that that they they don’t don’t any messages you receive as evidence. sending them a private message, email or text, or by anyany messages youyou receive as evidence. •Save Save messages as evidence. sending them abullied. private message, email or or by sending them aprivate private message, email orphoning text, or by by • •• site. site. deserve deserve tothem be to be bullied. YouYou could could do do this this byorby phoning them, them, Save receive asas evidence. sending them message, email ortext, text, Saveany anymessages messagesyou youreceive receive evidence. sending aa private message, email or by deserve deserve towith to be be bullied. bullied. You You could could dodo this this byby phoning phoning them, them, speaking them atat school. speaking with them school. speaking with them at school. • • Save Save any any messages messages you you receive receive as evidence. as evidence. sending sending them them a private a private message, message, email email or or text, text, or or by by speaking with them at school. speaking with at school. Save any any messages messages you you receive receive asas evidence. evidence. sending sendingthem themathem aprivate private message, message,email emailorortext, text,ororbyby • • Save •• speaking Don’t encourage bullying behaviour by participating in a Information provided by speaking with with them them at school. at school. encourage bullying behaviour byby participating in in ain a Information provided by by •Don’t Don’t encourage bullying behaviour byparticipating participating speaking speaking with with them them at at school. school. Information provided Don’t encourage bullying behaviour Information • • bullying Don’t encourage bullying behaviour byorparticipating Informationprovided providedbyby conversation thread or, aain aa redcross.ca/respecteducation bullying conversation thread or,“liking” “liking” orforwarding forwarding bullying conversation thread or, “liking” or forwarding a redcross.ca/respecteducation redcross.ca/respecteducation bullying conversation thread or, “liking” “liking” orparticipating forwarding redcross.ca/respecteducation •• • Don’t encourage encourage bullying bullying behaviour behaviour by participating Information Information provided provided byby hurtful comment. bullying conversation thread or, or forwarding This message brought to you by •Don’t Don’t Don’t encourage encourage bullying bullying behaviour behaviour byby by participating participating in in ainaaaain a Preventing Bullying redcross.ca/respecteducation Information Information provided provided byby hurtful comment. hurtful comment. Preventing Bullying Preventing Bullying hurtful comment. Preventing Bullying bullying bullying conversation conversation thread thread or, or, “liking” “liking” or or forwarding forwarding a a redcross.ca/respecteducation redcross.ca/respecteducation hurtful comment. bullying bullying conversation conversation thread thread or, or, “liking” “liking” or or forwarding forwarding a a redcross.ca/respecteducation redcross.ca/respecteducation Preventing Bullying DENTISTRY @ MERRITT hurtful hurtful comment. comment. Preventing Preventing Bullying Bullying hurtful hurtful comment. comment. Preventing Preventing Bullying Bullying www.dentistryatmerritt.ca
Lend a Hand
BULLYING
2731 Forksdale Ave., Merritt
250-378-4888
378-4000
someone If someone youmeet you meet meet online online asks asks to meet to meet IfIfsomeone you online asks to meet
7 7 7 7
computer. computer. computer. computer. sites sites like like Facebook Facebook when when you you leave leave aa computer. computer. 8 8888
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Change Change your your passwords passwords regularly, regularly, especially especially #110 - 1700 Garcia Change your passwords regularly, especially if you if you think think someone someone else else might might have have them. them. Change your passwords regularly, especially if you someone else might have them. Change yourthink passwords regularly, especially Change your passwords regularly, especially Change your passwords regularly, especially Don’t Don’t share share your your passwords, passwords, even even with with if you think someone else might have them. Don’t share your passwords, with if Change you thinkyour someone else might haveeven them. Change your passwords passwords regularly, regularly, especially especially if you think someone elseelse might have them. if you think someone might have them. friends. friends. Don’t share your passwords, even with friends. Don’t share your passwords, even with if you if you think think someone someone else else might might have have them. them. Don’t share your passwords, even with Don’t share your passwords, even with friends. friends. Don’t Don’t share share your your passwords, passwords, even even with with friends. friends. friends. friends.
(name, (name, family family members’ members’ names, names, school, school, friends’ names, age,age, address, phone number, friends’ names, address, phone number, etc.) with anyone you don’t know. etc.) with anyone you don’t know. friends’ friends’ names, names, age, age, address, address, phone phone number, number, etc.) with anyone you don’t know. etc.) with anyone you don’t know. etc.) etc.) with with anyone anyone you you don’t don’t know. know. 6 66
3
can make all the difference.
N’Kwala School
2001 Quilchena Ave. • Ph: 250-378-2022
Online has an
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MERRITT HERALD
l a i c e p S ank You DECISIONS, DECISIONS Th
THIS WEEK
THURSDAY, February 11, 2021 •
SNOW HELP
heavy snow events.
Council is looking at ways to involve the community during
/PAGE 3
themerrittherald •
> www.merrittherald.com
CLASS MASK
New regulations have students in BC wearing masks in the classroom - with exceptions.
/PAGE 9
FREE
PICKLEBALL
Pickleball courts have been approved to be built at the Lawn Bowling Club.
/PAGE 18
COUNCIL APPROVES: Merritt City Council debated and approved a number of projects at the last meeting, including the Forksdale development and grant-in-aid funding.
Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other
A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929.
Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri.: 10:00am - 3:00pm • Wednesday 1:00pm - 6:00pm / 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
On-call 24 Hrs. a day: 250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 • www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com
to all the businesses who have continued to support us throughout these difficult times. Please remember to support local shopping. Supporting local helps everyone thrive.
LIST OF DONORS • Robin Clarke • Karen Szabo • Corinne Pitt • Maureen Lisle • Mark Remming • Charles Pimms • Jurgen Lutter • Beth Guthro • Betty Stone • Brian Wuensche • Gertrude Leslie * Mary Anderson • Haley Rutherford • Community Futures Nicola Valley • Anne Wray
• Kristyna Murphy • Linda Brown• In memory of Walter Evans, Love Callie, Zach & Maria • Janet Hohner • Joanne Woods • Stephanie Troughton • Chris de Haan • Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants • Clemens Kummerlaender • Ho Ka Fai Simon • Gillian Rose • Mike Hilton
• Callie Langlois-Torgerson • Alex Doll • Jana Rosenberg • Bill and Tina Mikita • Joyce Crosina • Elizabeth Perdok-Waboose • Janet Hohner • Amy & Bradley Courtepatte • Naga Shunmugam • Carolyn Wainwright • Steve & Pat Gontar • Elizabeth Nel • Evan Walsh
• Charmaine Staley • Hans Treis • Carmen Fairley • Terence Grams • James A Clark • Sheila Butler • Matthew Starr • Stacey Krajci • Elizabeth Nel • Peter Spencer • Rod & Sharon Courtepatte • Mary Macgregor • Ross Horrocks • Sarah Sandusky • Emily Wessel
• Marise Sasges • Jeanette & Mike Matthias • Terrence Neilson • Lavinia Wilson • Dara Hill • Jurgen Lutter • Ellen Nast • Ka Fai Simon Ho • M.Cooper BCYR Fundraising Coordinator • Brent Campbell • Scentman • Anne Wray • Shirley Dumma
• Ben Klassen • Margaret Carlson • Alice Murray • James Murdoch • Cole Wagner • Gayle Munz • Barinder Chauhan • Joan Negrin • Betty Ann Mcdonnell • Ted Lund • Extra Foods • Gordon Swan • Diane Quinn • Plus a few generous anonymous donors
If you would like to donate, please go to support.merrittherald.com or drop by the office at 2090 Granite Avenue
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SPORTS
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 23
Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com.
JUNIOR HOCKEY
Ex-Cent shining in NCAA top division Cents fans should remember the name Vincent Duplessis tending goal a few seasons back. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM An ex-Merritt Centennial is making waves in just his first trio of games with one of the NCAA’s most prestigious
clubs. Goaltender Vincent Duplessis, after just three games as a freshman with the Boston University Terriers, has won the Hockey East Defensive Player of the Week award, as well as the Rookie of the Week award for the second week in a row. Hockey East is one of the most competitive divisions among the NCAA’s elite Division I program. He hit a career milestone over the weekend, picking
up his first college shutout in a weekend sweep of Vermont, allowing just one game in two games. The netminder suited up for the Centennials in a pair of different seasons, posting a short stint in the 2017-18 season before backstopping the Cents for much of the season the following year. The 21-year old finished his final season in Merritt by posting a 9-8-1 record while recording a .906 save percentage.
WHL’s BC Division still waiting on possible start date Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM And then there was one. The Western Hockey League announced late last week that health officials from the government of Saskatchewan have given approval to host a hub city in
Regina for the league’s East division, leaving BC as the only division to yet give a date and approval. The five-team division, which includes the Kelowna Rockets and the Kamloops Blazers, are still waiting to hear on just when they can hit the ice. Both cities are possibilities to be hub cities.
The Central division, which consists of all teams from Alberta as well as the Swift Current Broncos, are set to kick off their regular season on the week of Feb. 26. The season has been tentatively shortened to 24 games, and no spectators will be permitted at all this season.
Goaltender Vincent Duplessis is shown making a stop on a West Kelowna Warriors player while with the Cents in the 2018-19 season.
Shulus rink ending ice season Friday
Jake Courtepatte The announcement was NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM made earlier this month, when Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie extended Provincial The Shulus Community Arena social-distancing restrictions into is set to officially end its ice seathe month of March. son on Friday, according to Arena “We definitely tried to naviManager Sheldon Quewezance.
gate through these crazy times and I am grateful for all of you,” said Quewezance at the time. This was not an easy decision to come to but I am already looking forward to seeing everyone next ice season.”
24 •• THURSDAY, THURSDAY, February February 18, 18, 2021 2021 24
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BUSINESS FEATURE
Do you you want want to to nominate nominate aa business? business? Tell Tell us us about about itit by by calling calling 250-378-4241 250-378-4241 or or emailing emailing reporter@merrittherald.com. reporter@merrittherald.com. Do
Katie Huber has always been passionate about fashion, and dreamed about one day owning her own business. She decided to combine these two pursuits and launch ‘Rusty Lily’ an online women’s clothing boutique that caters to the fashionista in young and old alike. “I have always loved the idea of being a business owner and creating something that feels like a piece of me, and I am so happy I took the leap into the business journey that is Rusty Lily,” said Huber. Huber juggles the ordering, stock-
ing, selling and shipping of her curated clothing collection with her ‘regular job’ as a chair-side assistant at a local dental clinic. She was also taking courses through Vancouver Community College to become a Certified Dental Assistant, and although this educational pursuit is currently on hold, there is no doubt that Huber is an ambitious young woman who isn’t afraid to take on new things; even when she admits she isn’t sure where to start, which was the case with Rusty Lily. “When the bou-
tique was just an idea, I had minimal knowledge in web design, marketing, and retail so a lot of research was done. “I was pleasantly surprised at how supportive everyone was in the small business community! I was a little afraid I wouldn’t be taken seriously due to my lack of experience but, thankfully, the whole process was very educational and positive.” Now that the online boutique is up and running, Huber enjoys the creative aspects. “The boutique is my creative outlet; I have always loved
the idea of emulating how you feel through fashion,” explained Huber. “It’s been so much fun exploring what my own style is, and I believe that is reflected through Rusty Lily. My hope is that Rusty Lily can allow women to express themselves through fashion and be creative with their own unique style. I get so giddy when I see the clothes from Rusty Lily being worn by people in the community, it almost seems too good to be true.” Huber’s goal is to offer an inclusive shopping experience for women of all ages, and has had orders placed by everyone from teens to seniors. She hopes in the future to expand beyond the standard sizing and offer clothing that makes everyone feel beautiful and stylish. “It’s quite disappointing to not be able to offer a more diverse range of sizes, but it’s definitely something I have been researching, in hopes to find more inclusive wholesalers,” said Huber. Huber, who grew up on her parent’s ranch at Quilchena and moved into Merritt in Nov. 2019, has no plans to move her business out of the valley
anytime soon. “When I am not working, completing school assignments or marketing for Rusty Lily, my time is spent driving the familiar valley roads, fishing, camping, watching the cooking channel or working on home renovations with my guy and our two dogs,” said Huber. “Family is extremely important to me and, while I am biased, I feel like I won the lottery with mine. They are one of the many reasons I am happily rooted in the beautiful Nicola Valley! I cannot go without mentioning how beyond grateful I am for my family and friends who show nothing but support. Rusty Lily would not be possible without them. They fan the flame when I can feel it beginning to fizzle, and have given up their personal time to help me with photoshoots, pop-up shops, or proofing marketing content. I could go on forever about how much I love and appreciate them.” Although COVID has made it difficult to have faceto-face interactions, Huber hopes to host more pop-up shops when the pandemic is in the rear-view
mirror. “I really look forward to hosting more pop-ups in the future, as long as it is safe to do so, as I really enjoy being able to meet my customers and allow them to see the pieces in person,” said Huber. In the meantime, customers can browse the wide variety of tops, bottoms, dresses, accessories and more on the Rusty Lily website, or check out Rusty Lily’s Instagram at rusty.lily and the boutique’s Facebook page.
Fri. Feb. 19
Sat. Feb. 20
Sun. Feb. 21
Mon. Feb. 22
Tues. Feb. 23
Approved Approved mini-storage mini-storage On-site rentals rentals ■■ On-site Secured ■■ Secured Sale ofof New New && Used Used ■■ Sale storage containers storage containers ■■
1750 Hill Hill Street Street ■■ Phone: Phone: 250-315-3000 250-315-3000 1750
THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church
2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Lutheran Fellowship Crossroads Community Church
in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Sundays 10:00 a.m. Service Time: 3rd Sunday eachTime: month 1:00 p.m.
MerrittHeart Lutheran Fellowship Sacred Catholic Church
in Corner St. Michael's Anglican Hall• 250-378-2919 • 250-378-9899 of Jackson & Blair Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.1:00 p.m.
Sacred Heart Anglican Catholic Church St. Michael’s Church
Corner Jackson &St. Blair • 250-378-2919 1990ofChapman • 250-378-3772 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.
St. Michael’s Anglican Church Trinity United Church
Chapman& St. • 250-378-3772 Corner1990 of Quilchena Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 Service Time 2nd & 4th Sundays/ Sunday School (K-Gr. a.m. 4) - 10 am
Trinity United Church Somang Church (SMC) Corner ofMission QuilchenaCommunity & Chapman • 250-378-5735
1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Service Time 2nd & 4th Sundays/ Sunday School (K-Gr. 4) - 10 am Sunday Service Time: 3:30 pm • 250-280-1268
Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) Nicola Evangelical FreeHall) Church 1755Valley Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Maxwell • 250-378-9502 Sunday1950 Service Time: St. 3:30 pm • 250-280-1268 Service Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church
Merritt Baptist Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502
Sunday services temporarily suspended - for prayer Service Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. and counselling call 250-378-2464
Merritt Baptist Church
Sunday services temporarily suspended - for prayer and counselling call 250-378-2464
7 Day Weather Forecast for Merritt, BC - Thursday, Feb. 18 - Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021 Thurs. Feb. 18
CONTAIN-IT STORAGE STORAGE
Wed. Feb. 24
Stain Glass by
Almerina Rizzardo
• • • • Scattered Flurries High -1˚C Low: -7˚C
Mainly Sunny High: 3˚C Low: -6˚C
Wet flurries High: 2˚C Low: -3˚C
Cloudy with Showers High: 4˚C Low: 2˚C
Chance of Shower High: 5˚C Low: -1˚C
Mix of Sun & Cloud High: 1˚C Low: -4˚C
Flurries High: 1˚C Low: -6˚C
STAIN GLASS SUN CATCHERS NIGHT LIGHTS PICTURE FRAMES
Creative Company 2074 Quilchena Ave. Merritt, BC Monday - Saturday Ph: 250-378-0813 Available at
THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 25
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CLASSIFIEDS
Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com Announcements GET RESULTS! Post a classified in 95 newspapers in just a few clicks. Reach almost 2 million people for only $395 week for 25-word text ad or $995 for small display ad. Choose your province or all across Canada. Best value. Save over 85% compared to booking individually. www.bccommunitynews .com/advertise or 1-866-669-9222
In Memoriams
In Memoriams
Obituaries
In Loving Memory of Maurice Mathieu
November November 15, 15, 1934 1934 -- February February 15, 15, 2017 2017
Those Those we we love love don’t don’t go go away. away. They They walk walk beside beside us us every every day. day.
So So loved, loved, so so missed missed
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The family of Mark Texmo is deeply saddened to announce his passing on Friday Feb. 12th. He is survived by his spouse Peggy; 4 children: Sarah, Steven, Scott and Gary; his brothers: Darrell, Rick, Ian, Erik and Rory, plus many loving nieces, nephews and extended family across Canada. He was predeceased by his parents Anna and Jerry. A gathering of family and friends will take place when Covid restrictions allow. Please share your kind thoughts and memories of Mark at www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com
So So very very dear. dear.
Love Isabel, Bernadette, Steve and family, Brad, Jacqui and family. Obituaries
Obituaries
“Nothing changes if nothing changes.”
Merritt Funeral Chapel
MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY
Obituaries
POST Antje Jantina
(Oma) May 29, 1928 - February 5, 2021
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother in Merritt, BC aged 92 years. Mom was born in Assen, Netherlands and immigrated to Canada in 1950 with husband Jelle Post and daughter Ankie. Mom is survived by her children Ankie (Pat) D’Alessandro, Gerda Post (Jean Claude) Brian Post (Shawna), Ray (Peggy) Post, 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years Jelle Post and sister Tina Delange. Survived by Lenie Thie (sister), Johanas Wiltjer (brother), Anne Post (sister-in-law) and many nieces nephews and friends. Antje will be remembered for the love she had for flowers, gardening and family. The family would like to thank Dr. McLoud and the staff at Nicola Meadows for all their devoted care. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations to Antje’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
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www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com
in case they cannot give consent for treatments
2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
offered in the future P: 250-280-1701
Obituaries
1961 – 2021
but but always always near. near.
Join a Toastmasters program in a community near you.
Obituaries
Mark Elling Texmo
Unseen, Unseen, unheard, unheard,
Take your confidence and communication up a level and get the career and family life of your dreams!
Obituaries
250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379
www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
Call to advertise at: 250-378-4241
Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightening they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. by Dylan Thomas
MCNEELY Betty Louise
May 9, 1939 - January 5, 2021 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Betty Louise McNeely Predeceased by her husband Glenn, her daughter Marie Wilson and son Shane McNeely. She is survived by her 2 daughters Debbie (Bill) Walls and Myrna (Ron) Griep, 5 grandchildren Adrianna & Zachery Griep, Christina, Ashley & Glenn McNeely, 2 great grandchildren Justice & Ryleigh McNeely, son-in-law Dwayne Wilson, brother Russell (Mary) Hackman, sister-in-law Myrna (Tom) Bakaluk, great aunt Stella Elnicki, plus numerous nieces and nephews She will be missed by all.
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26 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 Employment
Employment
www.merrittherald.com Employment
Employment
Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Attention
Inventors! Ideas wanted!
Job Title • Receiving all staff, students, parents and community members in a welcoming manner • Office management skills • Experience working with confidential information • Effective verbal and written communication • Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity • Desire to increase capacity through professional development • Demonstrate good work ethic; punctual; respectful • Honest and trustworthy • Ability to work within a team and individually
Call Davison today! 1.800.218.2909 or visit us at
inventing.davison.com/BC
Free inventor’s guide! Catch your next job in our employment section.
Working Conditions • The ability to have good multitasking and time management skills. • You may have irregular hours on special events. • Ability to work with technology and be familiar with computers and photocopiers. Qualifications • General Administration and secretarial training • Valid Driver’s License • Preference to Native Language and experience working in First Nations Communities • Intermediate level ability with computer skills: Microsoft word, and excel. Rate of pay: As per set rate in school policy Closing: On-going until this position is filled for February 2021. Only Short Listed Applicants will be contacted.
Main SKILLS: • Good working knowledge with Simply Accounting, Microsoft Office Programs • Organizational skills and detail oriented • Marketing skills • Excellent people skills • Vehicle required • Ability to multi-task A Police Record Check will be required. DUTIES: • Office duties, including but not limited to preparing correspondence, meeting minutes & financial statements using Simply Accounting, organizing & maintaining paper & digital files. • 10 hours per week • Liaison with other hospices & Community Members • Writing proposals, fund raising For more information and to receive a complete job description, please call Jill Sanford at 250-378-4577. Deadline for applications: March 5, 2021 For information about Merritt & District Hospice Society, please visit, www.merritthospice.org. Bring Home the Bacon!
Find your new job right here in your Classifieds.
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or Call to advertise a job
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Employment
Employment
Employment
Lower Nicola Indian Band - HELP WANTED CULTURAL HERITAGE AND ENVIRONMENTAL FIELD WORKERS Department: Lands and Economic Development Department Position Title: Field Worker Summary of Organizational Responsibilities: The successful candidate will bring their energy, enthusiasm and interest in environmental and cultural resources to a variety of resource planning and research projects. Specically, the successful candidate will provide support to the LNIB staff on Cultural Heritage and Environmental resource development projects. Duties and Tasks • Field surveying of Cultural Heritage Resources, archaeological, plants, wildlife and soils values; • Data entry; • Communications (small reports, presentations); • Background research relating to current and historical resource use and environmental management; • Interviewing community members on current and historical resource use in the Nlaka’pamux Traditional Territory; • Strong computer and information management skills; • Strong le management; • Familiarity with online mapping platforms. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: • A valid drivers license and reliable transportation (Mandatory); • Positive attitude and genuine interest in projects and related duties (Mandatory); • Understanding/interest in Nlaka’pamux resource use and cultural practices; • Computer literate in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Publisher; • Attention to detail related to note taking, and eld sampling duties; • Physically t and able to work in adverse eld conditions; • Daily travel will be required; • High paced work environment; • Personal Protective Equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel toed boots, hi-vis vest) required; • Ability to speak or willingness to learn the Nlaka’pamux language.
Please send resume, cover letter, and 3 references in any of the three ways listed below. All applicants must comply with the Criminal Records Review Act and BC Drivers Abstract Email: jantoine@coldwaterschool.ca Fax: 250 378 - 9212 Mall: Box 4600, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
Part-time Employment Opportunity Merritt & District Hospice Society 10 hours per week POSITION: Coordinator Community Liaison & Office Support-Administrative Position Great opportunity for someone returning to work force or recently retired
Employment
VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT
PRODUCTION WORKERS
• Good wages • Steady day shift • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train
TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1
Qualications: • Post-secondary training/education in natural resource management or related eld (Preferred); • Resource Inventory Standards Committee Training in Archaelogical and CMT Inventory for Crew Members (Preferred); • Level I rst-aid (Preferred); Working Environment: • Outdoor work, subject to all weather conditions and terrain; • Must be able to handle wildlife encounters and respond as per training. Applications must be received by 1st April 2021. To Apply: Email: HR@lnib.net Job Website: https://secure.collage.co/recruiting/positions
Local steady work
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THURSDAY, February 18, 2021 • 27
Local Business Directory TREE SERVICE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES COMFORT, CLARITY AND CONFIDENCE THROUGH A COMPLETE
FINANCIAL PLAN Cashflow and Insurance Planning Portfolio Management Tax and Estate Planning Contact Kyle for your plan today!
JIM POTTER
MERRITT TREE SERVICE • Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment
ACCOUNTING SERVICES FOR ALL YOUR PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING & BOOKKEEPING NEEDS COME SEE
➤Schedule your FREE Estimate
CALL JIM at 250-378-4212
Solutions for your tree problems!
Carrie Ware, BSc, CPA, CA • www.carrieware.ca
Cell Phone: 250-879-6306 • Office: 250-372-2955 Ext. 259 e-mail: Kyle.schell@ig.ca • Website: http://advisor.investorsgroup.com/en/kyle_schell
1964 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Tel: (250) 378-2215 • reception@carrieware.ca
STORAGE FACILITY
MORTGAGE BROKER
Buying a home? Refinancing your home?
rates • RV storage • Secured • Great rage units available • Container or sto it te for entry and ex • Coded electric ga
ONE FOR RENT NEED A SHOP WE HAVE 4 250-280-870gm ail.com istorage@
nicolavalleymin
My Goal - to SAVE you money! Colleen Way
1.800.487.9035
Your Merritt Mortgage Specialist
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE
colleenMway@gmail.com
LICENSED CANNABIS
HERE FOR YOU!
Quilchena Cannabis Co.
M
Quilchena Canna Company
@DanAlbas
DanAlbas4COSN
Toll Free: 1-800-665-8711 www.danalbas.com
US
T BE
19+
Call 250-378-5 420 Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC
ADVERTISING
JOIN the Herald’s “Local Business Directory” page Every Thursday, Always Full Colour! *with minimum 1 month committment Reach over 5330 readers each week.
Contact Theresa at 250-378-4241 or Email: publisher@merrittherald.com
RVICE SE L A IC N A H EC M ’S K N A FR RANTY APPROVED AR OLD OR NEW WE HAVE W FOR EVERYONE MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS
• Tune Ups t • Brakes • Exhaus il /O be • Suspension • Lu ks & Struts oc Sh • e ic rv •Radiator Se Service • Air Conditioning 78-1322
enue 2026 Mamette Av
250-3
PLUMBING & HEATING
g n i t a e H & g n i b m Nicola Plu Fully Qualied 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
CLEANING SERVICES
DENTIST
CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS REMOVAL
Are you expanding your client base? Looking for an accessible way for people to find you?
MECHANIC
NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME
GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call
250-378-4888 to book your appointment.
HOURS
Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr. R. Dutt-DMD
2731 Forksdale Avenue, V1K 1R9
www.dentistryatmerritt.ca
BOOK TODAY! FLOOD SERVICES
CARPET/UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING 250-378-9410
www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com
28 • THURSDAY, February 18, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
MerrittMerritt Real Estate Services Ltd.Ltd. HELPING SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! HELPINGYOU YOU IS IS WHAT WHAT WE WE DO! SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! Real Estate Services
A Home Changes Everything!
Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt for a complete list of current listings
3499 Voght St. Merritt BC V1K 1C6
250-378-6181
email: rlpmerit@telus.net
$245,000 2499 PRIEST AVENUE
1819 MENZIES STREET
$425,000 FOUR BAY 3,856 SQUARE FOOT SHOP WITH 600 AMP SERVICE, GAS HEATERS, OFFICE AREA AND LOADS OF ROOM TO WORK AND STORE EQUIPMENT. Each bay has good sized doors and 60 amp service. 45 foot C can at back stays with building
THREE BEDROOM TWO LEVEL 1/2 DUPLEX WITH HUGE BACK YARD FOR THE FAMILY AND ALL THE TOYS. Parking at front as well as lane access at the back. Upper floor with 3 bedrooms and full bath. Lower level has large living room and kitchen with laundry to one side.
MLS# #160186
MLS#160327 Managing Broker
JOHN ISAAC: • 250-378-1586 •email: johnisaac@telus.net
1638 LINDLEY CREEK ROAD
$103,700 7-1401 NICOLA AVENUE
$80,900
THIS WELL KEPT 1992 MANUFACTURED HOME IS LOCATED IN A CENTRAL LOCATION CLOSE TO THE DOWNTOWN CORE. This mobile has a 24 X 12 addition which includes a mudroom and enclosed 14 X 11 deck. There is also a small garden shed and enclosed area for your small pet. This is a tenanted unit.
GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD YOUR NEW HOME IN AN UP AND COMING AREA OF MERRITT. Bring your ideas for this R2 zoned property that could possibly accommodate a duplex. No timeline to start building. Water and sewer are to lot line and are ready to go.
MLS# 159099
MLS# 160381
TONY LUCK: • 604-217-5825 •email: tjluck@royallepage.ca
2455 BURGESS AVENUE
$210,000 2223 BURGESS AVENUE
ENJOY THE COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE RIGHT WITHIN THE CITY ON THIS .77 ACRE LOT located in a prestigious neighborhood on a quiet cul de sac. This lot is offers over 200 feet of river frontage and is located within walking distance to Central Park, churches and the downtown core.
D
L SO
$719,000
GORGEOUS CUSTOM DESIGN RANCHER WITH LEGAL SUITE ON .51 ACRES IN ONE OF MERRITT’S MOST SOUGHT AFTER NEIGHBORHOODS. This stunning home boasts a gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, hickory cabinets and amazing walk-in pantry MLS#159094
MLS# 157710 Personal Real Estate Corporation
DEBRA SCHINDLER: • 250-315-3548 •email: debbieschindler2@gmail.com
$599,900 5020 STEFFENS ROAD
380 COLDWATER ROAD
LOVELY 2001, 1848 SQFT MANUFACTURED HOME ON 9.88 ACRES WITHIN 10 MINUTES OF TOWN. The 3 bedroom 2 bath home has had fresh paint and new carpets within the last year. Brand new roof and hotwater tank (50 gal) new natural gas fireplace, large kitchen open to the dining and family room MLS# 160235
$499,900 PERFECT HOBBY FARM NESTLED ON 10.7 ACRES JUST 20 MINUTES FROM MERRITT & 40 minutes to Kamloops! This fully fenced property is set up for horses complete with hay storage for over 200 bales of hay, nice sized riding arena, fenced and cross fenced, electric horse waterer, 2 40’ containers MLS# 160424
DENISE DESILETS: • 250-315-8395 •email: denisedesilets@royallepage.ca
2301 REID AVENUE
D
L SO Owner/Broker
$529,000 2682 GRANITE AVENUE
$339,900
SOLD AT FULL ASKING PRICE! 4 + 1 BEDROOM TOTALLY UPDATED HOME. Granite countertops, hardwood floors and beautiful gas fireplace in living space. Tasteful landscaping and detached garage for parking or workshop.
INVESTORS TAKE NOTE! GREAT RENTAL INCOME IN THIS NEWER 4 BEDROOM 2 BATH HALF DUPLEX. Upstairs offers 3 bedrooms, 4 piece bath, nice kitchen with built in microwave, dining area, and large living room with lots of light. Good tenants in place.
MLS#158810
MLS# 160001
CLAUDETTE EDENOSTE: • 250-280-0689 •email: claudetteedenoste@royallepage.ca
4830 SADDLE CRESCENT
$110,000 248 CALCITE DRIVE LOGAN LAKE TRANQUILITY IN THE AREA OF MILE HIGH RESORT. Thinking of building that retirement home, summer get away or just building your dream home. Then look no further as this .29 acre lot is for you. Easy access to Face lake. The lake boasts rainbow trout averaging 1.5-2 LBS. In winter, skating on the lake provides a picturesque view. MLS# 155423
D
L SO
$449,900
3 BEDROOM 2 BATH NEWLY DESIGNED HOME with a walk out basement in beautiful Logan Lake is nearing the finishing stages. Open concept design with a large 11 X 15 deck out the back overlooking the Highland Valley. Home has a double garage, and a 1300 sqft unfinished basement for the handyman. 30 min from Kamloops or 40 min from MLS# 159811 Merritt.
FREDERICK SINGER (LOGAN LAKE): • 250-318-8392 •email: fred.singer@royallepage.ca
2915 TRANS CANADA HWY
$1,050,000 2264 COUTLEE AVENUE AMAZING BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY located right on the Trans Canada Hwy just outside of Lytton. This 37.96 Acre property boasts endless opportunities for anyone looking to run their own business. This large commercial building was operational as the famous Shaw Springs 60 seat Restaurant with 32 site full hook RV park complete with Washroom & Shower Building. MLS#160180
$399,000
LARGE 2 STOREY HOME LOCATED NEAR ALL AMENITIES IN AN EXCELLENT LOCATION. Plenty of room for your family with the main floor consisting of 3 beds and 1 baths, large kitchen with a newer gas range. The lower level has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. The home is currently occupied by long-term tenants. Newer roof, hwt 2020 and home has central air. MLS# 160105
JENNIFER KIGHTLEY: • 250-315-3256 •email: jenniferkightley@royallepage.ca