Merritt Herald by Merritt Herald

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 •

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GATEWAY 286

BAILLIE HOUSE

NEW COACH

A development at the Gateway 286 exit received third reading at the latest City Council meeting.

The City of Merritt and the Baillie House recently entered into a new one-year agreement.

Learn some more about the new Centennials coach in a question and answer.

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The Merritt Centennials received a cheque from Surerus Murphy this week for $6,000. STORY /PAGE 17

HELPING HOCKEY 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

2 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

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Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts providing you with the highest level of care. 250.378.6941 https://legacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 2725 Eagle Crescent Road

Karen Bonneteau

Janis Post

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250-315-5178

250-315-3672

1264 Houston Street

$189,000

Panoramic views of the Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up and coming Bench Subdivision. City services need to be connected at time of permit. No requirement to build by a certain date. Water charge applicable. GST has been paid.

Brenda Thompson

Valerie Kynoch

Sarah Dickie

Jordyn Chenier

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

250-315-3377

250-315-8377

202-2295 Blair Street

MLS#162927

$219,000

Looking for an investment, downsizing, or a first time home buyer? This cute 3 bed, 1 bath mobile home is located close to downtown & all amenities on it’s own lot. There have been updates throughout the years such as laminate flooring, paint, brand new toilet, updated plumbing & a new HW tank. The yard is well taken care of w/ a storage shed & open parking in the front.

MLS#165555

$239,900

One of a kind! Totally renovated & move-in ready 2 bdrm, 1 bath Sandpiper upper corner apartment is just waiting for you. This home has been renovated in the last few years with new windows, including sun protection in the large front window, new Mill Creek kitchen cabinets with appliances included, custom built-in cabinets for your living room, new flooring, new light fixtures, new updated bathroom.

$280,000

Welcome to Waterside Trail – a new bare land waterfront strata community in the beautiful Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake, one of BC’s premiere locations. You will enjoy year-round recreation w/ easy access to crown land, beaches, private dock & all the watersports you can imagine.

SOLD $335,000

This is a 3 level, 5-bedroom home with major upgrades including: new roof (summer 2021), new h/w tank, new furnace with central air conditioning, new main water line to the house and a new fence that surrounds the entire back yard with some new windows. Very nice large back sundeck looks over a beautiful private back yard.

1410 Collett Street

SL10 6528 Waterside Trail

MLS# 164853

$260,000

Thank you to everyone who donated to our cozy coat campaign we collected over 100 coats!

1525 May Street

MLS#165357

250-280-0835

2nd Annual Cozy Coat Campaign!

SL13 6528 Waterside Trai

MLS#164852

250-280-0994

250-280-2353

Stephen Holbrook REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

778-709-0363

SL12 6528 Waterside Trail

NEW

SOLD MLS#165362

Ray Thompson

1926 1st Ave

2140 Taylor Place

101-2514 Spring Bank Ave

MLS#164854

$275,000

1463 Duncan Street

MLS#165358

$300,000

Beautiful half duplex with large fenced yard in Merritt. This property comes with a large driveway with room for a RV or other toys! Located on a quiet cul-de-sac within walking distance to a school, field and playground. This 3 bedroom home has bathrooms on both floors and a view of the mountains from the master bedroom.

2188 Nicola Avenue

SOLD MLS#165315

$340,000

Adorable, cute and cozy describe this 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom heritage style rancher, located within walking distance of downtown Merritt. The home features a new roof in 2021, original hardwood flooring, updated vinyl windows, 9ft ceilings, updated bathroom, 2 bedrooms, a large living room, separate dining area with free standing wood stove.

1732 Granite Avenue

SOLD MLS#164882

$412,000

Sit on the front deck and watch the cows come home. 2 (possibly 3) bedroom, 1 bath mobile situated on .28 acres with stunning farmland views. This 1600 sq. ft. home has one gas fireplace and one wood burning to offset heating bills. The fully fenced yard offers plum and apple trees, beautiful garden area, pond, 2 storage sheds and RV parking and tons of space.

1776 Juniper Drive

MLS#162954

$420,000

HUGE house! HUGE flat lot! This 2 level, 7 bed, 2 bath home is centrally located & allows for easy walking to parks, golf & shopping. House has all new paint throughout, HW tank 2015, furnace 2019, wood burning f/p upstairs, roughed in 2nd f/p downstairs. Private yard.

441 Kane Valley Road

Very nice 2 bed, 1 bath home located in a cul-de-sac on a quiet street, within walking distance to downtown Merritt amenities. The home has a galley kitchen w/ lots of cabinets & open to your dining area & front entry, sliding glass doors lead to your very private patio & great fenced backyard.

MLS164460 $599,000 Beautiful 4 bed, 3 bath rancher style house w/ fully finished basement in strata development. Home offers open concept design w/ gorgeous double-sided fireplace, large living room & kitchen.

1963 Greaves Ave

2222 Burgess Avenue

MLS#164885

$425,000

SOLD MLS#164050

$829,000

BEAUTY WITHIN and WITHOUT. Thoughtful landscaping on this .34+ private property has transformed this PANORAMIC VIEW LOT into an outdoor oasis. Abundant space in a level fenced yard for all your entertaining and family needs.

MLS#165139 $1,150,000 BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY PROPERTY! Usable fairly level approx. 10 acres. Lovely 3-4 bed, 3 bath, bright modern getaway, launch pad, or family home w/ 2 wood stoves & great above ground pool.

MLS#165263 $1,200,000 Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath, home on a private .41acre lot, tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac, w/ an inviting heated inground pool & detached 26’X40’ insulated, heated & wired shop/garage.

MLS#164281 $1,350,000 Sprawling rancher style house located on a .98-acre lot which borders the Nicola River and is within walking distance to downtown Merritt and city parks. Home is 2570 sq. ft. & has 4 beds, 2.5 bath +den.

MLS#162403

$659,000

Very nice 4-bed, 3-bath family home located on a double lot in a great location, w/ an inground pool & private yard. The home features vaulted ceilings in the living room, open to the family room, kitchen w/ lots of cabinets, eating island & dining room & lots of bright windows.

2760 Petit Creek Road

NEW MLS#165449

$3,250,000

Sprawling 2700 sq ft Rancher Home on 119 +/- acres of level hay land. Home has been completely updated including new addition in 2016. Enjoy comfortable living while working/living the ranching lifestyle. House features large country kitchen and dining room, 4 large bedrooms, blaze king wood stove, 2 living areas and large deck with hot tub to enjoy the peacefulness of the night sky. Owners have constructed a 5400 sq ft open barn with attached 1000 sq ft finished/heated workshop .

THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 • 3

www.merrittherald.com

CITY OF MERRITT

Gateway 286 development receives third reading approval The change to the Official Community Plan would see the property receive a Residential/Commercial designation.

WEATHER Feb. 4: Rain 5°/-2°C Feb. 5: Partly Cloudy 4°/-2°C Feb. 7: Partly Cloudy 6°/0°C

Feb. 8: Partly Cloudy 4°/1°C Feb. 9: Partly Cloudy 7°/1°C

Online merrittherald.com

NEW LIGHTS

Princeton has received a pair of new traffic lights along intersections at Highway 3 and Highway 5A, helping regulate highway traffic through the area.

A rendering shows possible commercial space in the proposal for development at Gateway 286. Spayum Holdings/Submitted

store, food and coffee shops, washrooms, and a centralized plaza. It also includes parking for RV’s vehicles with trailers, and users of the Godey Creek area. In terms of the subdivision stage, a park dedication of 5-percent of the property would be required. For local area service, such as water and sanitary sewer service connections, the two property owners have given an estimated cost of the extension of services to Gateway 286 at $7,554,000, though the City of Merritt’s contracted engineer has indicated that the estimate may need to be revised. Mayor Brown voiced her concern that the City of Merritt would possibly be on the hook if this cost did rise. Director of Planning and Development Services Don McArthur indicated that the city has been in talks with the devel-

opers to have an agreement in place for cost overages, and if there are any, a second local area service plan would be put in place. After the motion to approve third reading was called all in favour by City Council at their regular Jan. 25 meeting, the project now moves on to a request for approval from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. This proposed development is one half of the planned Gateway 286 project. The property at 2320 Hamilton Hill Road, which lies east of the subject property discussed at the Jan. 25 meeting, had already received three readings and a Public Hearing in summer of 2021, and is now up for approval by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. That development is set to include a residential area and a hotel.

LOCAL PROJECTS WE’VE HELPED FUND

is a charitable society dedicated, through fund raising, to the enhancement of healthcare in the Nicola Valley since 1984.

Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------ 17-18 Classifieds ---------- 20-22

Feb. 6: Partly Cloudy 6°/-3°C

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

n amendment to the Official Community Plan has received third reading approval from City Council for a major development at Gateway 286. TRUE Consulting, on behalf of Spayum Holdings Limited Partnership, is proposing to amend the OCP land designation for the property in question from ‘Future Development and Institutional’ to ‘Comprehensive Residential Commercial’. A report, prepared by Merritt Community Planner Janna Bradshaw and submitted to CAO Sean Smith at the Jan. 25 regular City Council meeting, indicates that access and connectivity within the Godey Creek trail network will be one of the top priorities, with the applicant’s development partner, Troika Management Group, even suggesting a proposed restaurant or pub with a patio that cyclists can ride right up to. Troika President Rich Threlfall wrote a letter of support to City Council in favour of the project. “Approval of the application empowers Spayum’s five First Nations partners to continue working to create an important amenity that respects and brings benefits to many stakeholders, including the area’s First Nation communities, the City of Merritt, and the traveling public of B.C.,” reads the letter. “The plan to develop vacant lands in this extraordinary location brings additional and needed services to the community and enhancements to the landscape that will restore this once-landmark destination to its former heights.” In a presentation to Council, Troika’s concept plan includes a potential for over 30,000 sq. ft. of commercial space, including a gas station/convenience

INSIDE THE HERALD

♥ Hospital Emergency Equipment: Renovation and Expansion Project ♥ The Berta Fraser Centre at Gillis House ♥ Adult Day Care Bus ♥ Merritt Hospice Society All money raised/donated stays in our Nicola Valley.

Search ‘PRINCETON’

MEN’S HEALTH

Nicola Family Therapy recently received a cheque to go towards a much-needed men’s counselling program in Merritt.

Search ‘THERAPY’

IF YOU’D LIKE TO DONATE Donations can be done on-line at nvhcef.com, through

250-315-1832 or by mail to Box 1423, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

4 • THURSDAY, January February27, 3, 2022

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City Council Meetings have resumed in-person and residents are strongly encouraged to watch online via www.merritt.ca Tuesday, February 8 - Regular Council Meeting - 6 pm

MERRITT

SUPPORT CENTRE formerly, the Resilience Centre has moved. You are you welcome to visit us.

1700 Garcia St. Unit 102, Merritt, BC If you have been impacted by the Coldwater Flood, there may be assistance and supports available to you.

#MERRITTHOME Visit: www.merritt.ca

Returning Home | Building Better

Call: 1.877.655.0341

Email: returnhome@merritt.ca

Effective February 13, 2022, the City’s credit card processing provider will be discontinuing service in Canada. Check www.merritt.ca for updated information.

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 • 5

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Baillie House, City reach new one-year agreement year. Since 2008, the Merritt Visitor Information Center has been operated by the NVHS. The new extension ensures that the NVHS will continue to provide face-to-face visitor services “alongside

online interactions, advertising, video promotions and targeted tourist attraction campaigns.” The visitor centre is located at 2250 Voght Street in Merritt and is open 10am- 4pm Tuesday-Saturday.

A special

something for everyone on your list.

Roses, mixed bouquets, arrangements and Robert McAlaster CONTRIBUTOR

n Jan. 25th City Council voted unanimously to extend an agreement between the Nicola Valley Heritage Society (NVHS) and the Baillie House to provide visitor services. Planning and Development Manager Don McArthur addressed Council at the regular City Council meeting with the proposal. Under the new extension, the City of Merritt agreed to pay the NVHS $52,133.20 for its operating services. During the council meeting, McArthur explained that the funding amount requested is the same amount paid to the Nicola Valley Heritage Society in 2020 and 2021. “Staff have not included an inflationary increase, at all, being mindful of the city budget, especially post-flood,” McArthur told Council prior to the vote. “Of note,” McArthur continued, “the TE ay! INA tod M e NO eon m o s

dressed up plants and planters. city will receive $25,000 from Destination BC.” To qualify for this grant, McArthur explained further, the city would have to agree to provide “a minimum of 660 hours of in-person Visitor information services during the course of [2022],” demonstrating the need to partner with the NVHS to operate the Baillie house and fill this requirement. According to the records from the council meeting, city staff were to initially present the report for the proposal at the November council meeting. However, due to the floods and staffing shortages, “staff did not have the capacity to address this prior to the end of the year.” The previous agreement officially expired on Dec. 31st, 2021. The new agreement will run retroactively from Jan. 1st, 2022, to Dec. 31st, 2022 and will likely be required to secure a further extension prior to the end of the

Nicola Valley Women in Action

CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Tuesday, March 8, 2022

March 8, 2022 marks the 18th 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 noon on February 18, 2022. Please include the reason for your nomination, a headshot picture and contact information with your submission. Thank you!

❤

All for your sweetheart

❤

Book early so you are not disappointed.

250-378-5575

1974 Quilchena Avenue - Merritt, BC

Thank You!

On behalf of the Merritt Library, we would like to thank Megan Gregory for 5 dedicated years of service as Branch Head. We wish Megan a bright future as she continues her excellent work with the TNRL in Kamloops.

Welcome to the team! We would also like to welcome Claire Sabiston as the new Branch Head of the Merritt Library. Claire was born and raised in the Nicola Valley and recently returned to the area. Claire’s empathy, calm demeanour, and professionalism will serve her well in this busy community hub. Feel free to stop by the library and say hello.

Open Tuesday - Saturday 250-378-4737 1691 Garcia Street, Merritt Email: merlib@tnrd.ca www.tnrl.ca

6 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

VIEWPOINT

www.merrittherald.com

GOVERNMENT

ALBAS: Rising interest rates It was on June 1 of 2021 that the Liberal Government last increased the “stress test” for home buyers taking on DAN ALBAS a mortgage, VIEW FROM which encomTHE HILL passes the vast majority of home buyers. For those unaware, a stress test requires that a home buyer must qualify at a higher rate of interest to ensure they can still make their mortgage payments if interest rates rise. In essence a stress test is intended to ensure that a home buyer has some excess fiscal capacity to afford an increase on their mortgage payment if interest rates should increase. While some may argue that the stress test protects people from potentially higher interest rates, in my experience many who are fortunate enough to pass the stress test and buy a home don’t stop there. They proceed to borrow to make additional purchases, like home improvement, furniture or car loans. Why do I raise this now? As many will know this week it was widely expected that the Bank of Canada (BOC) would raise the key interest rate however this did not occur. Instead, the current rate was maintained although the BOC did warn that: “Interest rates will need to increase to control inflation. Canadians should expect a rising path for interest rates,” This means for those with a variable rate mortgage. their monthly payments will be increasing in the near future. For those with a fixed See ‘AFFORDABILITY’ Page 7

Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

MERRITT HERALD

The students of N’Kwala created this week’s student artwork, in honour of the antibullying campaign! Students, teachers, and parents, send your student art to newsroom@ merrittherald.com. Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

Sales Representative Office Administrator Ken Couture kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com 250-378-4241 Making Advertising Work For You.

2090 Granite Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241 Fax (250) 378-6818

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher.

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.

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, February 3, 2021 • 7

OPINION

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

LETTERS to the editor

From the Herald archives: Feb. 2012

Grants now available through St. Michael’s Editor,

The Territory of the People (the Anglican Church in the Central Interior) and St. Michael’s Anglican Church would like to inform residents of Merritt and the Nicola Valley who have been affected by the catastrophic flooding that took place on November 15 that grant money is now avail-

able to assist individuals and families with restoration efforts. These grants are as a result of generous donations that have been received in December and January to assist flood victims. Grants could be used towards home repairs, furniture replacement, tools for flood remediation, etc. If you would like to apply for a grant, please e-mail happypreacher1956@gmail.com for an application

form, which will be sent out in the mail. Best wishes to all who are working towards recovery from this event! Rev. Isabel Healy-Morrow St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Merritt/Territory of the People

Allow the brightest to shine in politics Editor, So to gain or maintain in this contemporary political environment, the talentless often hate the talented. It’s a common occurrence. It’s old school politics. As a consequence, the brightest bulbs stand in the audience and shy away from public office. And can we blame them for their silence? Is it fair to ask him or

her to stand before the firing squad? Organized slander campaigns are undertaken and the brightest bulbs are hated by the dim for selfish ambition. Naturally, this strategy leads to undeserving leadership. Perhaps this is why we regress and stumble in the darkness. So, I guess, if we desire more from society, we must focus on talent and challenge the

dim lights and their dark narratives. Perhaps we can create a political environment that allows the brightest bulbs to shine and gain power positions. Imagine what might become of us if this were to happen. Perhaps we might transcend and truly live. Mike Bhangu Merritt

Affordability of home ownership in Canada From Page 6 rate mortgage, when their current rate expires, they may also face higher rates upon renewal. While stress tests are important public policy tools, there are also other challenges that remain. Based on feedback I am hearing from many households here in our region, there are new fiscal challenges emerging putting pressures on household finances. Obviously with the highest in 30-year inflation, many citizens are now forced into paying more for goods, groceries and in some cases services and yet receive less value in return. Gasoline and diesel prices have increased, likewise the cost of gas to heat your home has also increased, as have some of the taxes on your home heating. At the same time many citizens have also noticed, because of higher premiums for payroll deductions like the Canada Pension Plan, that their net take home pay is less from what it was last year.

John Isaac

250-378-1586

Johnisaac@telus.net

www.realestatemerritt.com

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

www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC

M E R R I T T

In addition, despite Liberal Government promises to reduce your monthly cell phone bills by “25%” this has not occurred. While the Liberal Government also promised not to tax online streaming services such as Netflix, as many now know, online streaming services are now taxed. All of these increased taxes and fees take a bigger bite out of your household net income at a time when payroll deductions are doing the same. Depending on how much the Bank of Canada raises the interest rate, I have heard from various citizens who indicate their monthly mortgage payment could increase as much as $400 to $800 a month, which is a significant hit to their net income. Some have suggested increased interest rates combined with higher inflation, fees and tax increases is creating a situation they cannot afford. More so as ever increasing CPP and Employment Insurance premiums (which the freeze on premiums ends this year) further erodes their net discretionary income. My question this week: Are you concerned about your own household affordability? I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or call toll free 1-800-665-8711.

POSSIBLE SCHOOL CLOSURES A decrease in government funding to Merritt schools is fueling the possible closure of Coquihalla Middle School, Bench Elementary and Collettville Elementary. SD58 staff predict the continuation of an enrolment decline which is unsustainable given a new government funding structure. “We estimated that we’ll be down 138 students in the coming school year,” said Superintendent Bob Peacock. “If you take a look at the capacity for all the schools, it far exceeds the enrolment.”

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.

Thanks to all for your kind thouughts, memories and condolences for our beloved Lynda Etchart. With chins up we keep moving forward.

www.merrittherald.com 8 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

CEN TURY 21 Moving Real Estate BC LTD.

Don Gossoo,

Doug Beech

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

movingrealestate.c21.ca

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

Jared Thomas 778-694-6804

Managing Broker

(Owner)

THURSDAY,www.merrittherald.com February 3, 2021 • 11

Brad Yakimchuk

Karen Yakimchuk 250-315-3076

Personal Real Estate Corporation

250-378-7392

250-315-3043

1613 CANFORD AVE

1798 GRANITE AVENUE

2326 COUTLEE AVE

1881 MAY STREET

NEW

D SOL

OLD

2501 JACKSON AVENUE

Two storey 4 bedrm, 4 bath home built in 2018 and is new. Seller never lived in house. Large kitchen has S/S appliances, Quartz countertops, island & nook plus dining room. Fenced yard, RV parking, 24x23 garage. Covered deck. GST applies.

Nicely maintained 3 bedrm, 2 bath rancher on corner lot with fenced backyard. Half bsmt that’s finished with rec.room & bedrm. Small shop/garage for toys for workshop. Walking distance to shopping

Cute & cozy home in great area, close to shopping & schools. Approx. 1450 sq.ft. rancher with 1 bedrm living quarters for inalws in the back. Open designer kitchen area. Has had some reno’s. Single detached shop/ garage with lane access. RV parking.

Cute & cozy 2 bedroom bungalow with spacious oak kitchen with formal dining rm leading into office & living room. Sitting room has gas F/P. Fenced corner lot, lots of parking with carport & detached garage/shop.

This 2 bedrm rancher has had some upgrades of new flooring, furnace approx. 4 yrs ago and HW tank last year. Has 20x20 garage/workshop plus storage building on large 100x120 lot. Fenced yard with RV parking & fruit trees.

#3290

#3308

#3307

#3286

#3309

$689,900

1976 HOUSTON STREET

$390,000

$484,500

2659 JACKSON AVENUE

1630 CHESTNUT AVE

$429,900

$469,900

1590 CHESTNUT AVE

#5, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

NEW Cozy 3 bedrooom rancher close to shopping & schools. Private covered deck off master bedrm. Huge fenced backyard. Includes appliances & window coverings. 12x32 detached garage/shop.

New 3 bedrm 3 bath home with open design, 9 ft ceilings, large kitchen island and Quartz countertops. HW on demand system. Master bedrm has window seat & 5 pce ensuite. Large 7 ft crawl space for storage. New Home Warranty.

Cute & cozy 3 bedroom rancher, close to school, built in 2009 & comes with appliances. Has 5 pce ensuite in master bedrm. Has covered front deck, fenced yard with storage shed/workshop in backyard.

New 3 bedrm rancher with 9 ft ceilings, open design, large kitchen island & Quartz countertops. Master bedrm has vaulted ceilings, 5 pce ensuite & window seat. Large covered deck in back yard. Double garage.

Build your dream home or rec. home in this proposed strata development at Nicola Lake. Great views & access to the water. All services to the property line. GST is applicable. Developers Disclosure available.

#3285

#3303

#3310

#3302

#3299

$399,000

SL.28, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

$799,900 +GST

#4, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

$515,000

$789,900 +GST

2845 NEILSON ST

SL.29, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

$255,000

#29, 1401 NICOLA AVE

NEW Build your dream home on this 10,516 sq.ft. strata lot in new development on Nicola Lake. Fantastic view and access to the water. Strata fees are $125 per month & monthly utility fees are $131.02. GST applies. Call for more details.

Build your dream getaway on this 10,667 sq.ft. strata lot at Nicola Lake. All services are to the property line, fantastic views, and access to the water. GST is applicable. Strata fees are $125 per month. Call for more details.

#3305

#3298

#3304

$280,000

$255,000

$280,000

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. C-1 zoning with possible change to C2. Call for more details.

#3264

$1,650,000

2 bedroom mobile home in Eldorado Mobile Home Park. Walking distance to restaurants, shopping and golf course. New hot water tank. Pad rent $378.00 per month.

#3311

$49,000

FULL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR TENANT ONLY PLACEMENT We can assist you in renting your investment DEANNA Licensed Property Manager

RICK Licensed Property Manager

250-315-0000

www.merrittpropertymanagement.ca

movingrealestate.c21.ca

•

378-6166

•

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THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 • 9

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Hwy. 8 access planned to be restored by spring

Approx. 900 residents still out of home

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM

Two and a half Jake Courtepatte months after intense NEWSROOM@ flooding evacuated MERRITTHERALD. the City of Merritt, COM approximately 900 citizens are still out of their homes. Greg Solecki, who has been brought in as the Recovery Manager for those still displaced, is urging those people to contact City staff to learn about the different ways they can be supported if they have’t already. “There are many agencies here in town to help provide immediate supports to those who remain displaced from their homes and from Merritt: Red Cross, Emergency Management BC Disaster Financial Assistance, HEMBC, Indigenous Support Services.” Solecki added that if a home is salvageable, he suggests looking towards repairs, though it is ultimately a homeowner’s decision. The recovery team is still looking to define what the new floodplain looks like. “When we have that information, we will share it.”

Despite being one of the most heavily damaged areas of the Interior after the Nov. 2021 floods, Hwy. 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge is expected to be partially reopened by the spring. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure provided an update on Jan. 26 the current condition and construction projects being completed on the highway. “Since the severe weather and flooding in November 2021,

we have been in Phase 1 of our response: emergency access and temporary construction,” said the Ministry. “We anticipate this phase of work will be complete in the spring, including restoring access for residents.” All in all, construction and repair crews are focused on 23 sites along the stretch. At five locations, temporary repairs have now been completed, while another five are underway, and 13 sites will see construction begin in the near future. Some sections of the highway were so washed out that there is

still not full access for construction crews to reach them. So far, teams have been able to reach from Spences Bridge to a washed-out section 24.9 km’s to the east towards Merritt. Crews are beginning work on the rock/ bridge end fill to rebuild the westside approach to 3-Mile Bridge. Crews have also now poured concrete to complete bridge abutment repairs at Rattlesnake Bridge. Temporary repairs have been completed near the N’Kwala Recreation Site, a popular camping

Progress is shown being made on Hwy. 8 at 3-Mile Bridge. MOTI/Submitted

area and a launch for boats and kayaks. “After clearing and preparing the area our team used rock and dirt fill to build up the road base and restore this section of highway,” said

Fresh Gift Ideas for Valentine’s Day

the Ministry. The Ministry also acknowledged that signs of wildlife have begun to reappear along the route, including finding a beaver

among the woody debris installation at the 29.4 km site. Fish habitats also appear to have begun to restore.

Early French Immersion Information Session & Kindergarten Registration Information 2022

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Parents wishing to attend the session please email CVschool@365.sd58.bc.ca for the link.

French Immersion Kindergarten Registration: When: Monday, February 14, 2022 to Friday, February 25, 2022 Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca How does registration take place? Registration for Kindergarten French Immersion will take place earlier than neighborhood school registration. This will allow for equitable access and better planning. Collettville Elementary is a school of choice with limited registration and as a result, if needed, a lottery will take place to determine registration. Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview of the process. For more information or if you have questions, please contact Collettville Elementary School at 250378-2230 or email the Principal, Mr. Rene Aubin at raubin@365.sd58.bc.ca

Thank you and Welcome to School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen).

Success for ALL Learners ~ Today and Tomorrow

10 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

POLICE FILES Man charged for restaurant theft on Nicola Avenue

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM

A Mr. Jamie David Koivisto has been charged with Theft Under $5,000 and Unauthorized Use of a Credit Card. A man allegedly walked into a Nicola Avenue restaurant on Sept. 1, 2021, outside of business hours, stealing a

backpack containing thousands of dollars, personal identification, and debit and credit cards. Meritt RCMP was able to identify the man through the use of video surveillance. The man was located and arrested without incident while being in possession of the stolen backpack. Koivisto is set to appear in court

on Feb. 15, 2022.

Merritt man pleads guilt to possession contrary to an order On Oct. 5, 2020, Merritt RCMP initiated a vehicle stop for a burnt out headlight on Coutlee Avenue. The driver was found to be prohibited from driving and was arrested by the

Annual TNRD audits differ from forensic Jessica Wallace KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is audited every year by KPMG, raising questions about why financial concerns under former CAO Sukh Gill did not come to light earlier. Kamloops This Week sent KPMG the forensic audit completed by BDO Canada and was asked why the company did not find what was detailed in the forensic audit. The audit, like the KTW investigation that led to the audit, found numerous examples of excessive spending and questionable expenditure practices, among other issues. KPMG was asked if details were not discovered or whether they were overlooked. With taxpayers on the hook for more than $1 million in connection with Gill’s severance package ($520,000) and the cost of the forensic audit ($515,000, including $15,000 for a communications contract), plus costs of

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annual audits every year, KPMG was asked how it protects the public from financial abuse by people in positions of power and what went wrong in the case of the TNRD. KPMG did not answer the questions, citing client confidentiality, but provided the following statement: “KPMG takes its role, responsibilities and obligations as an auditor very seriously on every engagement. As you may know, our obligations under our Code of Professional Conduct prohibit us from discussing confidential client matters.” Audits of financial statements, such as those conducted annually at the regional district, differ in scope from forensic audits. Forensic audits are more detailed and often look for criminal activity. Annual audits may not include questioning the legitimacy of expenses logged, which are usually vetted by organizations through internal controls. For example, See ‘FORMER’ Page 14

officer. A search of the driver incidental to arrest revealed he was in possession of ammunition contrary to an order. On Jan. 27, 2022, Travis

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Resiliency Centre open in Spences Bridge Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A Resiliency Centre will be open weekly in Spences Bridge for those that have been greatly affected by the November flood events. Located at the Spences Bridge School House, at 4800 School St., the centre will be open and available on Feb. 9, 16, and 23, from 10a.m.-2p.m. Canadian Red Cross service will run

FRIENDS & Neighbours

Food Bank delivery in honour of retired employee

through this location, to assist residents with temporary accomodation and meal expenses, as well as help with the Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) application process. Mental health support staff will also be on site. In Merritt, the Resiliency Centre has now been relocated out of the Civic Centre as of Feb. 1 to 1700 Garcia St, Unit 101.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM In late January, an SUV filled with goods pulled up to the Nicola Valley Food Bank in Merritt in honour of a retired Handydart employee that has been highly impacted by the November flooding. Brian Peters, representing the share-ride service, brought boxes upon boxes donated by the Handydart staff in Surrey, meeting up with Merrittonian Donna Rae in the process for the dropoff. Rae, who has been retired for approximately five years, continues to

be evacuated from her home in Phase 4 of the evacuation. “We put out a donations box at Christmas”, said Brian Peters, who made the delivery from Surrey. “All of the employees from Handydart in Surrey got together and put some food together, and I drove down and donated it.” The delivery consisted of about a dozen cardboard boxes full. “There’s a little of everything,” said Peters. “From juice, to soup, to nuts, pasta, a whole bunch of stuff. They were going to donate it in Vancouver, and I said ‘no, I want to take it to Merritt.”

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Bullying Prevention AwarenessMonth

CYBERBULLYING

is using online and mobile technology to harm other people, in deliberate, repeated & hostile manner

FOUR STEPS TO STOP CYBERBULLYING

STOP: Don’t try to reason with or talk to someone who is cyberbullying you.

CYBER SAFETY STRATEGIES FOR ONLINE & MOBILE SAFETY CYBER SAFETY

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you again.

BLOCK: Use the block sender technology to prevent the person from contacting TALK: Tell a trusted adult, inform your school, use a help line and/or report it you again. to police.

you, or capture any comments or images that have been posted online.

SAVE: Save any instant messages or emails you receive from the person bullying you, or capture any comments or images that have been posted online.

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United we STAND, Divided we FALL Conayt is very concerned about our children and being bullied. LET OUR COMMUNITY STAND TOGETHER

FACTS

2/3 of youth have faced bullying over their cell phones or online.

Three out of ten bullied students reported missing school at least once during the year because of cyberbullying.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE, ASK 4 HELP

2/3 of youth have faced

Talk about it with someone you trust and try to find a healthy way to change what is happening or how you react to it.

NO ONE AGREES

Talk about it with someone you 2. Three out of ten bullied trust and try to find a healthy waystudents reported missing school at least once to change what is happening or how during the year because you react to it. of cyberbullying.

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Take a Stand

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Lend a Hand STAND UP · SPEAK OUT

Call a help line – reaching out to a counsellor in an anonymous way can help make talking about it easier.

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YOU ARE NOT ALONE,bullying over their cell phones or online. ASK 4 HELP

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Be Smart, Don’t Start

Cruelty won’t make you happy Kindness isn’t weakness By the time they’ve reached grade 10, 65% of students will have suffered at the hands of a bully. That same 65% think that it’s a normal part of school life.

It’s up to us to make sure that’s not always the the way of things

STRATEGIES FOR ONLINE & MOBILE SAFETY

TALK: Tell a trusted adult, inform your school, use a help line and/or report it SAVE: Save any instant messages or emails you receive from the person bullying to police.

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THURSDAY, February 3, 2021 • 13

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Use an online nickname that doesn’t Use an online provide clues to your nickname that doesn’t real identity. provide clues to your real identity.

Don’t open emails from strangers. Don’t open emails from strangers.

Don’t share your personal information (name, family members’ names, school, Don’t share yourage, personal information friends’ names, address, phone number, (name, family members’ names, school, etc.) with anyone you don’t know. friends’ names, age, address, phone number, etc.) with anyone you don’t know.

9 9

Help down the person being bullied understand that •• Write or save what you see and when youthey seedon’t it. deserve to be bullied. You could do this by phoning them, • Help the person bullied understand sending them abeing private message, emailthat or they text, don’t or by deserve towith be bullied. You could do this by phoning them, speaking them at school. sending them a private message, email or text, or by • speaking Don’t encourage behaviour by participating in a with thembullying at school. bullying conversation thread or, “liking” or forwarding a • Don’t encourage hurtful comment.bullying behaviour by participating in a bullying conversation thread or, “liking” or forwarding a hurtful comment.

10 10

Don’t share cell phone numbers or email Don’t sharewith cell phone addresses people numbers or email you do not know. addresses with people you do not know.

IF YOU ARE BEING BULLIED Don’tARE try toBEING reason orBULLIED communicate with the person who IF• YOU

is bullying you. • Don’t try to reason or communicate with the person who • isUse the you. “block” feature to prevent the person from bullying contacting you again. • Use the “block” feature to prevent the person from • contacting Tell a trusted youadult again.or contact the Kids Help Phone web site. • Tell a trusted adult or contact the Kids Help Phone web • site. Save any messages you receive as evidence. •

Stand together to

If someone you meet online asks to meet you in person, tell a parent, teacher, or other Iftrusted someone you meet online asks to meet adult. you in person, tell a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult.

Always use the privacy features of Always use the social media sites. privacy features of social media sites.

for them. • When you see someone being bullied online, stand up • for Write down or save what you see and when you see it. them.

Don’t accept friend invites from strangers. Don’t accept friend invites from strangers.

Change your passwords regularly, especially if you think someone else might have them. Change your your passwords regularly, Don’t share passwords, evenespecially with iffriends. you think someone else might have them. Don’t share your passwords, even with friends.

IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS BEING BULLIED ONLINE: IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS • When you see someone being bullied online, stand up BEING BULLIED ONLINE:

MERRITT HERALD

Remember to log out of social networking sites like Facebook when you leave a Remember computer. to log out of social networking sites like Facebook when you leave a computer. Never post or forward naked photos of Never post forward yourself oror anyone naked else. photos of yourself or anyone else.

Save any messages you receive as evidence.

Information provided by redcross.ca/respecteducation Information Preventing provided Bullying by redcross.ca/respecteducation Preventing Bullying

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Former TNRD CAO remains member of Provincial accounting group From Page 10 an auditor may see a company expense at a golf course on its books, but it is not the role of the auditor to question if the company should be paying for staff to go to golf courses. Before Gill, an accountant,

was CAO, he was finance director of the regional district. An example of spending that caught the attention of BDO Canada auditors was alcohol purchased at Nandi’s Flavours of India disguised on receipts as other menu items, in an apparent effort

to charge taxpayers for booze. The Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) is the regulatory body that oversees 38,000 accountants in this province. The CPABC was also sent a copy of

the forensic audit and was asked if Gill remains an accountant in good standing with the CPABC, if he was reprimanded for that the forensic audit discovered and if what was revealed in the audit is acceptable behaviour for an

accountant. The body was also asked to explain how it protects the public from financial abuse by accountants. Edward Tanaka, the CPABC’s vicepresident of professional conduct, confirmed Gill remains a member

munities cannot be over-emphasized. Enter the Nicola Valley Food Bank. On February 26th, 2022, the NVFB is inviting all able residents of Merritt to come to partake in the Coldest Night of the Year charitable walk. Currently, nine teams of walkers, consisting of 23 individuals, are signed up for the event. For the next 24 days, these teams (and any others who wish to register) will accept cash donations that will go directly to the NVFB to help them help others in the community. The nine teams have raised $2,630 out of their $20,000 goal

as of Wednesday morning. The walk will start at the Nicola Valley Food Bank (2026 Quilchena Ave.) at 5 pm on the 26th. Teams will be given the option of walking 2km or 5km, either virtually or in person. “The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is so important because when life gets busy and challenging, we often feel lost and alone,” Ayme Desmond, a student at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology and NVFB/CNOY volunteer, told the Herald in an interview this week. “[The event] can give us hope and

encouragement, something positive to work towards, an event each and everyone can enjoy together for a fantastic cause,” continued Desmond, “ There is a lot of darkness and hurt in the world, but one step at a time, we can work together to bring light, joy, and hopefulness to those who are struggling and try to help better their lives in any way possible.” The NVFB has operated in Merritt and the surrounding communities since 1999. According to statistics from their website, the food bank currently assists approximately 850 people each

month (roughly 8.5% of Merritt’s population each month) by “providing supplemental food hampers as well as additional specialized programs focusing on the children within those families.” For more information on the event, including how to pledge funds, start your own team, or volunteer for the walk, visit cnoy.org/ nicolavalley. To find out how you can donate cash or food items to the Nicola Valley Food Bank Society, interested parties are encouraged to call 250-378-2282 or visit www.nicolavalleyfoodbank.com.

‘Coldest Night of the Year’ coming this month The Nicola Valley Food Bank Society is proudly hosting their second annual Coldest Night of the Year charitable walk, and they need your help. Imagine for a moment… It’s a chilly winter evening when you step outside. Sure, it’s cold, but you know that when your walk is over, you’re going to come back to a warm house and a hot meal. For most British Columbians, this way of living is commonplace and perhaps sometimes taken for granted. Having a solid roof over our heads, clean clothes on our backs, and filling meals in our bellies is ‘normal.’ However, our ‘normal’ way of living is a dream for over one hundred thousand families in our province. According to the 2021 Hunger Count Report (commissioned by Food Banks of Canada), over 131,000 households (single persons, children, couples, and families) in British Columbia visited one of 126 different food banks last year. With these statistics rising yearover-year, the importance of helping those in our com-

of the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia. “Protecting the public is our primary mandate and we are aware of the situation and are monitoring it,” Tanaka said. “However, due to confidentiality provisions in our legisla-

tion, we are not able to comment directly on individual discipline cases or members.” KTW was directed to the

CPABC website for disciplinary summaries, which did not include any proceedings involving Gill.

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Lower Nicola Band School

LNIB SCHOOL REGISTRATION 2022-2023

THE LOWER NICOLA BAND SCHOOL INVITES ALL CHILDREN (First Nations/Non First Nations) To Register for

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KINDERGARTEN to Grade 7

• Full-time Kindergarten – must be 5 yrs by Dec 31, 2022 • Bus Services provided to all areas of Merritt.

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3 & 4 year old Program (K4 must be 4 yrs old by Dec. 31, 2022) 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

16 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

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APPENDIX B to Order G-3-22

We want to hear from you Fortisbc Energy Inc.’s Application for Approval of Revisions to the Renewable Gas Program On December 17, 2021, FortisBC Energy Inc. (FEI) filed an application with the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) seeking approval for revisions to its Renewable Gas Program (formerly referred to as the Biomethane Program). The application requests changes to FEI’s tariff, cost recovery methods, and accounting treatment in order to provide new and revised Renewable Gas service to its customers, including: • a new Renewable Gas blend for all FEI sales customers as part of their regular gas service, beginning at 1% on January 1, 2024; • connections for new residential dwellings attaching to FEI’s gas system to be connected as 100% Renewable Gas. Renewable Gas connection customers will pay the same rate as other gas customers. • All customers participating in the voluntary Renewable Gas offering can choose to purchase up to 100% Renewable Gas; increase the price for Natural Gas Vehicle and Transportation Service to equal the weighted average cost of Renewable Gas supply; and eliminate the $1 per gigajoule discount for long-term contracts.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

IMPORTANT DATES

• Submit a letter of comment • Register as an interested party

• Wednesday, February 9, 2022 – Deadline to register as an intervener with the BCUC.

• Request intervener status For more information about the Application, please visit the Proceeding Webpage on bcuc.com under “Regulatory Activities – Current Proceedings.” To learn more about getting involved, please visit our website at www.bcuc.com/get-involved or contact us at the information below.

G E T M O R E I N FO R M AT I O N FortisBC Energy Inc.

British Columbia Utilities Commission

16705 Fraser Highway, Surrey BC V4N 0E8

Suite 410, 900 Howe St., Vancouver BC V6Z 2N3

E: gas.regulatory.affairs@fortisbc.com

E: Commission.Secretary@bcuc.com

P: 604.592.7664

P: 604-660-4700

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SPORTS

THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 • 17

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

Pipeline workers donate to Centennials Jake Courtepatte/Herald

Surerus Murphy Joint Venture employees made a generous donation to the Merritt Centennials junior hockey organization on Feb. 1, dropping off a cheque totalling $6,000. Surerus Murphy, whose employees have been working on the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, has made a number of donations to local organizations since setting up camp near Merritt, including a $5,000 donation to Merritt’s Royal Canadian Legion branch in Nov. 2019 and $20,000 along with plenty of toys at Christmastime to the Nicola Valley Food Bank.

A Q+A with new Cents coach Curt Toneff Callie Langlois CONTRIBUTOR

my mind from then on.

Cents fan Callie Langlois got to know the new head coach of the Merritt Centennials, Curt Toneff. When did you become interested in hockey and then coaching? I became interested in hockey from the time I can remember, I would actually be up at about 3 AM in my garage shooting pucks and balls putting holes in the walls, my brother played and my mom had been around the game a long time, she was married to an NHL player before she remarried. I became interested in coaching when I was in my rookie season of junior, I was assigned to help a minor hockey team in practice and I always had it in the back of

Who is your favourite hockey team and player(s) from any league? I don’t have any favourite players, I cheer for the Canucks, and tend to sort of study Pittsburgh and Vegas. What have you seen improve on the team since you started? I think the guys have improved their attention to detail in each zone, as well as offensive creativity the most, if I had to try to put a finger on it! How do you stay positive as a coach and in general? I often find myself just thinking of what we get to do, as a staff and players. Our days revolve around a great game,

Merritt Centennials vs

Canada’s game. It is a blessing and we are lucky to do what we do. What do you do in the off season or your spare time? I like to play a bit of golf, and find a body of water now and then, the last few summers I have spent on Vancouver Island, this summer I am excited to see what Merritt has to offer. I love the heat. How are you liking the Merritt winter so far compared to coming from Saskatchewan? When my girlfriend and I arrived I kept complaining about how cold it is and that’s obviously ironic coming from Saskatchewan, it’s just a different type of cold I guess!

What does a typical game day look like for us hockey fans out there? Usually I arrive at the rink at around 8 AM, go over what our line up will be and catch up on some things, video or recruiting, emails… etc. The players arrive at around 9:30 and we are on the ice at 10. We skate for 20-30 minutes and then they are free to do whatever they want. After that I usually will touch up our pre game video and maybe grab lunch. I usually like to get a workout in myself and be back to the rink for around 3 to make sure everything’s in order. We meet at 5 PM and go over video and special teams and from then on it’s kind of the players time to get prepared, and then it’s their fun time.

FEB. 4 - PENTICTON VEES: 7:00 P.M. FEB. 5 - PRINCE GEORGE SPRUCE KINGS: 7:00 P.M. AT THE NICOLA VALLEY MEMORIAL ARENA!

FOR TICKETS DROP BY 2001C VOGHT ST, OR CALL THE OFFICE AT 250-378-3604

18 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

High School Rodeo receives donation from Legion

Jake Courtepatte/Herald

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Editor’s note: The Merritt Herald erroneously reported in the Jan. 27, 2022 edition that it was the Merritt Rotary Club that made the donation. We regret the error.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM The Merritt Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion recently donated a cheque for $750 to the Merritt High School Rodeo through their gaming grant program. The team in Merritt participates in rodeos across the province throughout the school year, culminating in both provincial and Canadian finals, both of which have been held in Merritt in recent years. Events throughout the season include barrel racing, goat tying, pole bending, breakaway roping, calf roping, and bull riding. While provincially there are about 60-80 participants in the High School Rodeo, about ten hail from Merritt. A donation will also be presented to the Little Britches rodeo program by the Legion on Feb. 3.

THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 • 19

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BUSINESS FEATURE

Do you want to nominate a business? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing reporter@merrittherald.com.

Unity Cannabis

The revitalization of the old Adelphi Hotel, led by Garry Serko, has been an impressive feat and is starting to turn the heads of Merittonians. The latest development is a retail cannabis shop called Unity Cannabis, and is situated directly across from the

Dollar Tree at Suite 104 of 2101 Quilchena Ave. Owned by Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN), Unity Cannabis is, according to Unity President Chief Sellars, “the product of the first governmentto-government agreement around cannabis under sec-

2055 Quilchena Ave

tion 119 of the BC Cannabis Control and Licensing Act.” Fortunately, we had a chance to catch up with Chief Sellars and get more clarification on what this agreement means for WLFN and their cannabis endeavours. Chief Sellars

explained the purpose of a section 199 agreement. “A section 119 allows the provincial government to enter into a specific arrangement with a First Nation concerning cannabis retail,” said Sellars. “It was developed to recognize the rights of First Nations and fur-

info@ukspicecuisine.com

ther the goals of economic reconciliation.” Unity Cannabis first opened its doors in midNovember, 2021. The ribbon-cutting ceremony included a drumming ceremony, with participation from Upper Nicola Band Chief Harvey McLeod. Since its legalization, the legal cannabis industry now contributes more to the country’s gross domestic product than many of Canada’s mainstays, like iron, gold, copper, and wood product manufacturing. In such a saturated market, Chief Sellars says that it is their ‘craft’ approach to cannabis that sets them apart from the rest. “Craft cannabis will be the difference, and it’s what the consumer wants. Our Unity stores will be a tremendous opportunity for us to showcase B.C.’s first 100% Indigenous-owned farm-gate product, pioneered through our cultivation brand, Sugar Cane Cannabis. We’ll be growing small batches of our own cannabis at our facility in Williams Lake. “There won’t be anything else like it

250-293-0416

on the market.” In terms of when the farm-gate products will be available in store, Chief Sellars said that they are waiting on their final approval for their Health Canada license. “...and then we expect to move fast and have a multitude of Sugar Cane Cannabis products displayed in our Unity stores within the next three months. Flower, Pre-rolls, tinctures, you name, and we’ll have it.”

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000 PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

Sunday service (indoors), 10 am. Phone (250)378-2464 for more info and for prayer support.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

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

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.

Trinity United Church

Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268

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

Monday - Friday: 11:00 am to 9:oo pm Saturday & Sunday: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm

20 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

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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

Announcements

ALANON Meetings Are Held Every Monday 7 - 8 pm. United Church Hall 1899 Quilchena Ave Call for more info (250)525-0262

GET RESULTS! Reach almost 2 million people in 92 papers for only $395/week for a 25-word text ad, or $995/week for a formatted display ad bccommunitynews.com/ advertise

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

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Legal / Public Notices

Reliable Towing Merritt Ltd. 2900 Pooley Ave

the following vehicle will be auctioned on

February 17, 2022 for non payment 2006 Ford F350 Duper Duty VIN# 1FTWW31P96EA84661 Debtor: Edward Bowering Amount Owing: 16,644.14

Obituaries

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY Children also grieve. Be honest with the child and give simple clear explanations consistent with the child s level of understanding.

P: 250-280-1701

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

Merritt Funeral Chapel

Division of of Service Service Corporation (Canada) ULC AA Division Corporation International International (Canada) ULC

r Celebrating each life like no othe REGULAR OFFICE REGULAR OFFICE HOURS HOURS On On Call Call 24 Hours 24 Hours A A Day Day

Mon., Mon., Tues., Tues., Thurs. Thurs. & & Fri.: Fri.: 10:00 a.m. a.m. -- 3:00 10:00 3:00 p.m. p.m. Wednesday: 1:00 Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. p.m. -- 6:00 6:00 p.m p.m

www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com

Obituaries

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Obituaries

Nooaitch Indian Band

ARNO DONEL NIELSEN Arno Donel Nielsen 83, of Kamloops, BC, succumbed to cancer at the comfort of Hospice and surrounded by love on January 26, 2022. Arno is survived by his wife Rosella of 62 years, daughter Debra (Hank) Heppner, son Brad (Rachann), brother Allen (Donna), sisters Helen Parker and Carol (Reo) Shanks, grandchildren, Erik (Christina) Heppner, Ian Heppner, Brooke (Chris) Nielsen, Quynn Nielsen and Ty Nielsen, two great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and extended family. Born in Brooks, AB, where he received his education, worked on the family farm and, met his beautiful bride, Arno decided at the age of 28 to pack up the family and move to BC. For the next 23 years Douglas Lake Ranch was home, allowing Arno to do what he did best. Following Douglas Lake Ranch, Arno had the opportunity to combine his love of the earth with his love of golf, purchasing and operating the Nicola Valley Golf Course with partners Rosella and Brad for 5 great years. During winter months, Arno and Rosella enjoyed golfing and fishing throughout the States and Mexico where they spent many years with dear friends from Merritt and Kamloops and other great friends made over time. Semi-retired, Arno and Rosella built their dream home and lived at St. Andrews by the Lake near Penticton, BC, where Arno once again, found his passion for farming working at Freding Feed Lot in Oliver, BC, along with operating Nielsen Irrigation Repair until retiring in Kamloops in 2019. Arno was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to many. He loved telling stories and giving speeches, loved family gatherings, and always had something to say. He was forever filling the grandkids with adventures of growing up on the farm and of his travels, and most recently, the great grandchildren showing them how to eat bugs and sharing stories of survival. He was always there to help family and friends, including many active years of Boards and Community volunteering such as 4H and High School Rodeos. “And my heart is sinking like a setting sun. Setting on the things I wish I’d done. Now the last goodbye is the hardest one to say. This is where the cowboy rides away...” - George Strait A special thank you to Dr. Choi and Kamloops Hospice for their loving care, understanding and support during his final days. Also, the family would like to extend their gratitude towards Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services for being accommodating during this difficult time.

2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

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

Obituaries

Condolences may be expressed to the family from www.myalternatives.ca

To advertise in Classifieds call:

250-378-4241

2954 Shackelly Road Merritt, BC V1K 1N9

Ph: 250-378-6141 Fax: 250-378-3699

HOMEMAKER WANTED The Homemaker reports to the Nooaitch Social Development Worker and is responsible for providing home services for Elders/ Disabled clients of the Nooaitch Indian Band. A homemaker represents an important enhancement to Elder and Client care: a dynamic, enthusiastic, and reliable individual committed to home services is key. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • To provide professional homemaking services to pre-approved clients as directed by the Social Development and the Scw’exmx Community Society registered nurse. • Maintain cleaning duties based on the evaluation provided by the Scw’exmx Community Society registered nurse. Duties may include but are not limited to: vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, dish washing, dusting, cleaning and disinfecting the bathrooms, kitchen area and overall upkeep of living areas. • To establish a professional working relationship with the client(s) and follow a schedule, based on evaluation from the nurse. • To perform assigned duties and responsibilities with respect for client(s) privacy and condentiality; adapt to a variety of situations; and respect and accept different values and standards of living. • To maintain a record of hours and duration of service for each client(s): record services provided at each visit; report incidents; provide time sheets as per Nooaitch Indian Band Policy. • Conduct all work in accordance with safety procedures QUALIFICATIONS: • Must have the ability to perform to perform outlined cleaning tasks with minimum supervision. • Must possess physical ability to perform all cleaning/janitorial tasks. • Must be self-motivated, be on time with limited supervision. • One to three years’ experience in homemaking support environment an asset. • Class 5 Drivers’ License is essential • Must provide Criminal Record Check upon employment Deadline to apply: Friday, February 11, 2022 Please submit your resume, covering letter, and references to: Nooaitch Indian Band Human Resources 2954 Shackelly Rd. Merritt BC V1K 1N9 or nooaitchbandmanager@nooaitchband.ca socialdev@nooaitchband.ca

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TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 • 21

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Employment

Nlaka’pamux Health Services Society Employment Opportunity Home Care Nurse/ Manager- RN STATUS: Permanent Full Time HOURS OF WORK: Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (35 Hours per week/1hr lunch) Nlaka’pamux Health Services Society (NHSS) is seeking a fulltime Registered Nurse to fill a Home Care Nurse/ Manager position providing nursing services within the Nlaka’pamux Nation. Home Care Nurse/ Manager will provide: 1. Initial and annual client care assessments of home care clients 2. Develop client care plans, assign client care directions to LPNs and Home Care Aids 3. Creates social connection to the community and receives referrals into the program 4. Provides client advocacy with medical services with the Health Authority’s 5. Consults with community and liaisons with NHSS management regarding policy and processes 6. Oversees requirements of NHSS Nation Shared Nursing policies for service delivery, nurse licensing requirements, maintains standards equivalent to British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP) practice standard and policies 7. Advocates between NHSS Nation Shared Nursing Services and the communities 8. Management & directs resources within the NHSS Nation Shared Nursing Services 9. Provides health promotion and prevention programs for Elders, assists with immunization clinics, health fairs, diabetes, heart health and nutrition support. 10. Provides mentoring and training in support of LPNs and HCAs education, development, and assurance of culturally appropriate and trauma-informed service. 11. Assures cultural safety and relevant best practices are maintained to support client care. Qualifications and Qualities: • Bachelor’s Degree in nursing from a Canadian university or equivalent combination of training and experience. o Must be registered (or eligible) with British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals • Training/Experience in community health nursing is an asset • Experience/knowledge of computer operations and systems • Immunization certification or willingness to obtain • Standard First Aid with a valid CPR ticket (or ability to obtain) • Valid BC driver’s license • Excellent written and oral communication skills • Knowledge of First Nations history, customs and traditions is an asset Relocation allowance may be offered for this position This position may qualify for a signing bonus Applicants to submit a cover letter with salary expectation, resume, copies of credentials and three professional references to: Tamara George, CAPA, Executive Director Address: 2088 Quilchena Ave, PO 1624 Merritt BC, V1K 1B8 Email: george.t@nlxfn.com Phone: 250 378 9772 ext.119 Fax: 250 315 0283 This posting will remain open until the position is filled. Only applicants shortlisted will be contacted for interviews. Please note that successful applicants will require a Criminal Record Check, the details of which may preclude an offer of employment being finalized. Preference will be given to persons of Aboriginal ancestry as per Section 16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

NOON HOUR SUPERVISORS School District No. 58 is accepting applications for Noon Hour Supervisors at Collettville Elementary This position is Monday to Friday, five (5) days per week and one (1) hour per school day. Previous experience working with students would be an asset. If interested, please send your resume along with three references to Dena McDermott at dmcdermott@365.sd58.bc.ca or online at www.sd58.bc.ca, click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 3179253). Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Employment

Scw’exmx Tribal Council (STC)

#202-2090 COUTLEE AVENUE P.O. BOX 188, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 Phone (250) 378-4235 Fax (250) 378-9119 e-mail: administration@scwexmxtribal.org

Seasonal Field Techician

Employment

Traffic Control company looking to hire

CERTIFIED TRAFFIC CONTROL PEOPLE. Must have valid BC Drivers License. Full-time, part-time, lots of overtime if interested.

Rate of pay based on experience. Positions starting ASAP . Call 250-718-1357, 250-469-3469 or email: coralie@allsafetraffic.com

Requirements: Valid Driver’s License Required Skills: • Data collection (detail orientated), intermediate knowledge of compassing, mapping and using a Ipad, technical writing skills, legible and detailed notes Qualications: • Good physical condition • Occupational rst aid level 1 • Intermediate knowledge of plants • Intermediate knowledge of the surrounding area • Be willing to take training as required Education and/or Work Experience: • Natural Resource Technician/Environmental Resource Technician certicate or diploma, • RISC Archaeological Field Crew and Culturally Modied Tree Certicate and/or • Archaeological eld experience or archaeology courses. • Knowledge of the Nlaka’pamux language and culture is an asset. The Job will entail: Field work in all weather conditions, hiking on all types of terrain, conducting preliminary eld reconnaissance, shovel test pits, long hours, and note taking.

PAPER

ROUTES

AVAILABLE GET YOUR STEPS IN AND GET PAID

250-374-7467 250.378. 4241 circulation@kamloopsthisweek.com circulation@merrittherald.com

Work Apparel: Hi Vis Vest and/or Cruising Vest, Steel Toed Work Boots, Hard Hat, leather gloves and safety glasses Please note that this is a seasonal position and during of work is dependent on available work and weather conditions. Wage is based on Work Experience and Credentials. Email Resume and Cover Letter to Morgan Jumbo mjumbo@scwexmxtribal.org

High School Teacher Position

@MerrittHerald @KamThisWeek

N’Kwala is a First Nation operated independent school offering a kindergarten to grade 12 programs. Currently we have an enrolment of 40 making class sizes smaller allowing for more one-on-one time for teacher and students. N’Kwala is surrounded by rolling hills and the natural environment and is located in the beautiful Nicola Valley approximately 90 km south of Kamloops and approximately 50 km east of Merritt. On-site accommodations and daycare are available for the successful candidate. Required Qualiﬁcations: • Qualified and experienced to teach High School level students • Special Education training an asset • Ability to adapt or modify programs to meet the student’s special needs • Knowledge of the BC curriculum • Valid BC teaching certificate Recommended Qualiﬁcations: • Experience working in First Nations community • Experience with the Read Well and Saxon Math programs • Experience with special education programs • Experience with On-line learning portals • Experience with multi-grade classroom • Salary as per the SD 73 Salary Grid Start date: ASAP ProD opportunities may be required. For further information about this role, please contact Principal at 250-350-3370 or email:principal@uppernicola.com Please send cover letter and resume to Human Resources, General Delivery, Douglas Lake, BC V0E 1S0 or hr@uppernicola.com. N’kwala School thanks all those interested but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.

22 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022 Employment

Employment

www.merrittherald.com

SUDOKU

Employment

Intermediate Teacher Position N’Kwala is a First Nation operated independent school offering a kindergarten to grade 12 program. Currently we have an enrolment of 40 making class sizes smaller allowing for more one-on-one time for teacher and students. N’Kwala is surrounded by rolling hills and the natural environment and is located in the beautiful Nicola Valley approximately 90 km south of Kamloops and approximately 50 km east of Merritt. On-site accommodations and daycare are available for the successful candidate.

Catch your next job in our employment section.

Required Qualiﬁcations: • Qualified and experienced to teach intermediate level students • Special Education training an asset • Ability to adapt or modify programs to meet the student’s special needs • Knowledge of the BC curriculum • Valid BC teaching certificate Recommended Qualiﬁcations: • Experience working in First Nations community • Experience with the Read Well and Saxon Math programs • Experience with special education programs • Experience with multi-grade classroom • Salary as per the SD 73 Salary Grid

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

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

Start date: ASAP ProD opportunities may be required. For further information about this role, please contact Principal at 250-350-3370 or email:principal@uppernicola.com Please send cover letter and resume to Human Resources, General Delivery, Douglas Lake, BC V0E 1S0, or hr@uppernicola.com. N’kwala School thanks all those interested but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT School District No. 58. (Nicola-Similkameen) is currently accepting applications for the position of Accounting Assistant at the School Board Office in Merritt, BC. This is a full-time position (7 hrs/day, 35 hours/week) with a salary per the C.U.P.E. 847 Collective Agreement and a comprehensive benefits package, including participation in a defined benefit pension plan. Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at www.sd58.bc.ca. Click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 3179995). If interested, please submit your cover letter, resume and three professional references. Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

To advertise in To advertise in Employment Employment call 604-630-3300 Call 250-378-4241

You Want It We’ve Got It Find Whatever You’re Looking for in the Classiﬁeds.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM COORDINATOR School District No. 58 is accepting applications for Hot Lunch Program Coordinator at Merritt Bench Elementary School. 5 days per week | 4 hours per day. Must have completed food safe course. Previous experience dealing with students and running a kitchen would be an asset.

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DOWN

If interested, please send your resume along with three references to Dena McDermott at dmcdermott@365.sd58.bc.ca or on-line at www.sd58. bc.ca, click on Jobs, Support Positions, and Current Job Opportunities (Job Code 3170309).

Thanks for wearing a mask, for everyone!

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24 • THURSDAY, February 3, 2022

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SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS!

Helping you is what we do.™

3499 Voght Street, Merritt BC, V1K 1C6

250-378-6181

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Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt email: rlpmerit@telus.net for a copmlete list of current listing

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2920 CLAPPERTON AVENUE

250 JASPER DRIVE

4 bedroom 2 bathroom home located in a great neighborhood on a large lot with plenty of parking. The fenced back yard offers room for pets with a variety of fruit trees. There is a storage shed & shop located in the back yard that is wired & heated. 165291

Beautiful, bright, well-maintained Rancher with walk out lower level. Double bay heated garage with large flat driveway. Large master bedroom with 3-piece ensuite . African hardwood flooring throughout living room, dining room and hallway.. 165352

3038 PONDEROSA AVENUE

537 WILD ROSE DRIVE

Hurry! Sought after properties like this home and acreage do not last long. Nice 3 bdrm 2 bath home on a desirable acre lot close to all amenities and near highway access. This property has 2 wells, one shallow and one deep. 165388

Just 15 minutes from town this 4.6 acre parcel is the perfect area for the out-doorsman! Tons of lakes nearby for the fisherman plus endless quadding, sled-ding, horseback riding right from your door! 164394

$529,000

Logan Lake $585,000

Call one of our agents to see what your home is worth. 2238 NICOLA AVENUE $389,000

SL3—6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL $250,000

$595,000

This home has been owned by the same owner for 70 years, with care & love that you will see & feel as soon as you walk in. Home has 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms with plenty of room over 1461 SQFT. 165535

Beautiful lot in Nicola Lakeshore Estates with a monthly strata fee of $125.00. Enjoy the beauty of being at the lake while enjoying the mountains views all at the same time. This lot has a buildable area of 1,304.07. 164810

2299 CHARTERS STREET

2437 IRVINE AVENUE

$365,000

$689,000

$299,900

We are still receiving FLOOD DAMAGE ASSISTANCE Nice bungalow with two bedrooms on main floor with a possible third in base-ment. Good sized workshop in basement, recroom and extra storage. Long tern tenants in place. 163602

Here is a home you are going to love! This home is located close to schools, hospital & shopping. The upper level has 3 bds & 1 1/2 bths. Lower level has an in law suite that comes fully furnished & has a sepa-rate entrance. 165536

applications on behalf of the Rotary Club of Merritt. If you have yet to apply, please come by during our office hours! 9-4 pm, Monday to Friday.

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