Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905
MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 •
TWO YEARS
Ben Tyner’s family still searches for answers two years after his disappearance.
themerrittherald •
> www.merrittherald.com
VACCINES
/PAGE 3
Some Florentine residents were unable to get the first round of COVID vaccines.
/PAGE 5
FREE
REZONING
Council heard from public on a possible new development on Lindley Creek.
/PAGE 13
ART ATTACK: Nicola Valley Arts Gallery Director Jano Howarth shows off some of the pieces created for the first gallery of 2021, given the moniker “Street Art!”
Street Art! 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, January 28, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
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 2737 Eagle Crescent
Karen Bonneteau
Janis Post
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
250-315-3672
1585 Chestnut Avenue
250-315-5178
Ray Thompson
Brenda Thompson
Valerie Kynoch
Sarah Dickie
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
250-315-3377
250-315-8377
250-280-0994
2719 Eagle Cres
2767 Eagle Cres
250-280-0835
Jordyn Chenier REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
250-280-2353
4250 Falcon Crest Drive
NEW 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.
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.
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 .
MLS#153194
$112,900
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.
6415 Monck Park Road
welcoming
NEW 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.
2151 Merritt Ave
SOLD
our two new agents
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
302-1701 Menzies Street
ley’s panoramic views. Choose the home you want to build in this preferred neighbourhood of new homes in Merritt. No GST
101-1701 Menzies Street
Join us in
Kamloops & 1.5 hours from Kelowna. Crown Land backs onto this lot, easy access for ATV’S, walking & exploring.
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-
SARAH DICKIE
JORDYN CHENIER
As a lifelong resident of the Nicola Valley, I enjoy nothing more than seeing my community grow and change. I have been involved in Merritt real estate as a buyer and seller since an early age, and from those experiences I have built extensive knowledge of the local market and made many reliable contacts in this community. I confidently believe I belong to the finest and most outstanding team, and am proud to be joining RE/MAX Legacy. I look forward to serving my community and helping others make Merritt their new home.
1843 Nicola Ave
MLS#159211
Raised in Merritt and have always loved this beautiful valley! After three years as a team member at RE/MAX Legacy I am very excited to start my new role as a Real Estate Agent! I now have the knowledge and expertise to assist you whether you are buying or selling! It would be my pleasure to help you find your dream home or help you sell. Thank you to my friends and family for your support and RE/MAX Legacy for adding me to their team.
$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
1481 Miller Road
SOLD 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.
8244 Highway 5A
377 Merritt Spences Bridge
NEW
6408 Monck Park Road
NEW
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.
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#157733 $429,900 COUNTRY HOME or GET AWAY right across from trophy fishing Kidd Lake! 1700 sq ft of recently updated 2 bed main plus unfinished basement home, 16 x 30 garage for all your toys, & more.
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#160074 $439,900 This spectacular waterfront lot on Nicola Lake offers over 1 acre of fantastic lakeside living at its best! This is a rare opportunity to purchase one of the last lakefront lots located in phase 1 of Nicola Lakeshore developments.
1741 Lindley Creek Road
2276 Garcia Street
2360 Willgoose Road
129 Coldwater Road
1464 Miller Road
SOLD
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.
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#159658
$749,900
This 4 bed 2 bath country dream is waiting for you! Check out the 9.26+/-acre flat parcel complete w/ fenced horse paddocks, small animal pens, chicken coop, approx. 5 acres of hay fields & more!
MLS#158342 $885,000 Custom-built Log post and beam house on 10 acres of nice usable land and only 10 minutes from Merritt. This home is nestled in the beautiful Nicola Valley with trails and lakes.
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.
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 3
www.merrittherald.com
MISSING MYSTERY
Tyner family renews plea two years on Criminality is assumed, but still no answers as to the disappearance of Ben Tyner.
Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports ----------------------- 15 Weather -------------------- 16 Classifieds ---------- 17-18
Online
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER It has been two years since cowboy Ben Tyner disappeared. The cowboy, who hailed from Wyoming, was working as manager of the Nicola Ranch when he was last seen on Jan. 26, 2019. Two days later his horse was found on Swakum Mountain, with its rider nowhere to be seen. “Ben’s rider-less horse, discovered on a logging road off Highway 97 near Winnie Flats, prompted a large-scale search effort, which spanned multiple days and involved countless police and search and rescue resources,” said Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, spokesman for the BC RCMP in the Southeast District. “Merritt RCMP was supported early on in its investigation by the BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit, who maintains conduct of the still ongoing investigation into Ben Tyner’s disappearance. Today, Ben’s parents continue to suffer with the unexplained loss of their son. Desperate to find answers to the questions they’ve been asking for years, Jennifer and Richard Tyner renew their plea for tips.” Tyner’s family released a video to Youtube asking anyone with information to come forward. “Ben’s disappearance has dramatically affected us,” said Ben’s father, Richard Tyner.
INSIDE THE HERALD
merrittherald.com Ben Tyner’s family is shown in a new video with a plea for tips as to his disappearance. Screenshot/Youtube
“The last two years have been filled with horrendous heartache, continued hope and many, many prayers. Ben is constantly in our daily lives, through tending his horses and cattle and having his dog, Sioux, trail beside us. The working pens on the ranch are called ‘Ben’s pens’ because he built them. His friends stay in touch with us through phone calls and visits. Two scholarships have been started in his name.” Richard Tyner commented on his son’s horsemanship, and the positive qualities he possessed as a person. “Originally from Florida, we brought Ben and his brother to Wyoming at a young age. Ben has been around horses, dogs and cattle since he was born. He excelled at horsemanship and was very skilled in leather making and whip making. But, Ben was not just a cowboy. He was a voracious reader. He loved to experience new places and cultures. He spent time in Florida, Texas, New Mexico, Nevada, Montana and Idaho. A year was spent importing cattle into Russia. He traveled to Australia to visit friends in 2018.
“A team player, Ben was always willing to do what it took to get the job done. He was there to lend a hand whenever someone needed help. He is always going to be a gentle giant with an incredible bear hug that made you feel needed, wanted and so loved. To have to live with Ben’s loss is the most painful, excruciating experience ever,” continued Richard, becoming visibly emotional and fighting back tears. “The loss we feel is immeasurable. On this second anniversary of Ben’s disappearance, we continue to have unanswered questions. We are constantly praying that someone who knows something will come forward because Ben still needs to be found. We know that many local people have continued the search for Ben and for that we are extremely grateful. If anyone knows anything, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please inform the Major Crimes Unit in Kelowna as soon as possible. As always, your prayers and good wishes truly help us make it through each and every day.”
Courtesy Corner
RCMP did not have any new information to share with the public, but stated that the investigation remains open. “The investigation into the disappearance of Ben Tyner continues to be diligently led by the RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit,” said O’Donaghey. “To date, numerous investigational avenues have been explored, and in order to protect the ongoing investigation police are unable to share those findings publicly at this time. However, based on those findings, major crime investigators have reason to believe that criminality was involved in Ben Tyner’s disappearance, and is the victim of a homicide. “The Tyner family is offering a private reward in the amount of $15,000 for information that leads to the location of their beloved son Ben, and to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for his death. The monetary reward is offered and will be managed solely by the Tyner family, not the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.”
TOURISM SKILLS
The Thompson-Okanagan Tourism Assocation is partnering with the University of Victoria to provide a new Tourism Skills Training program.
Search ‘TOTA’
MINING GOALS Nicola Mining has announced their exploration objectives for the year 2021 at the New Craigmont Copper Project site, to be carried out in two different phases.
Search ‘MINING’
BELLS RINGING
View more photos (see pg. 14) of the historic Murray Church installing its new bell, just over two years from the day it was burned down in a case of arson.
Search ‘MURRAY’
GAS STATION/CONVENIENCE STORE/PROPANE • AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS • VAPE PRODUCTS • GROCERY • HEALTH & BEAUTY PRODUCTS • FROZEN FOOD • FISHING BAIT • CLOTHING • SCOOP ICE CREAM • SLUSHIES • FRESH SUBS • FIREWORKS • GREETING CARDS • CAMPING SUPPLIES • COFFEE • PET FOOD
LUCKIEST STORE IN THE VALLEY: VALLEY: LottoMax winners: $25,951,985.90 & $12,000. & BC 49: $75,000
Hours. Mon - Sat. 6 am -10 pm
Sun. 7 am -10 pm
2
$
✁
OFF
NEW LOCATION OPENING SOON
2302 Nicola Ave. Any PROPANE TANK REFILL. One coupon per customer per visit. Valid at Courtesy Corner Only.
407 Highway 8, Lower Nicola • 250-378-9457
Y,
4 • THURSDAY, July 30, 2020 4 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com
4 • THURSDAY, June 13, 2019
www.merrittherald.com
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 media channels. Public input questions/ Council - June 25, 2019 January 29Regular - Committee ofMeeting the Whole (Budget) - 12:30 PM information can be submitted prior to the Council Regular Council Meeting - July99,- 2019 Regular Council Meeting - Febuary 7:00 PM meetings to communications@merritt.ca Regular Council Meeting - July 23, 2019 Committee of the Whole Meeting Plan Regular Council Meeting - Official AugustCommunity 4 - 7 pm February 16 - Draft Policy Development 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Regular Council Meeting - August 18 - 7 pm
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
PUBLIC NOTICE
Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications for the position of CASUAL LIFEGUARD/ INSTRUCTOR I.
PUBLIC TUESDAY 4th, For complete HEARING details, visit Cityon of Merritt website atAugust www.merritt.ca
2020 at 7:00PM
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
PLEASE A NOTICE OF PUBLIC CITY HALL NOTE COVID-19 HOURS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY City Hall will HEARING be reopened with SCHEDULED FOR Position: The limited City of Merritt is inviting applications for the position of PUBLIC WORKS SEASONAL hours. AUGUST 4, 2020 AT 7:00 PM IS ON PAGE 5 LABOURER. City Hall will be open to the public For complete of Merritt website at www.merritt.ca from details, 10:00 visit am City to noon.
Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing educationisand qualifications, andthat proof of andwill licenses be accepted prior to Notice hereby given a required Publiceducation Hearing be will held on Tuesday 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 12, 2019 by: August 4th, 2020 in the Council Chambers at Merritt City Hall, located at 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC with respect to the following proposed Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca Zoning Bylaw 2284, 2020.
Although thereflecting Merrittapplicants’ City Hallknowledge, is Current resumes skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing education and qualifications, and proof oftorequired education and licenses will be accepted prior to open, residents are encouraged 4:00 p.m. Monday, via July phone 08, 2019orby:email. send inquires
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be Acontacted. copy of the proposed the Bylaw and other relevant documents may be viewed during normal business hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on Thursday Date Posted: Monday, June 17, 2019 July 23rd to Tuesday August 4th, 2020 at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt Posting Expires: Friday, July 12, 2019 BC, or online at www.merritt.ca
online-payment-options We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
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.
Payments can be made online Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager POatBox 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca www.merritt.ca/city-services/
Date Posted: Friday, June 21, 2019 Posting Expires: Monday, July 08, 2019
WHAT: MSS GRAD WALK WHEN: June 20, 2019 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm WHERE: Merritt Senior Secondary High School to Nicola Valley Memorial Arena
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
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
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
WATERING RESTRICTIONS
6:00AM - 8:00AM and 7:00PM - 10:00PM
ce of ly in or
ds ce as ng lp
ws, ng nd a
40 to en op s/
page
Community Policing Office Reopens As of Monday, July 27th, 2020 the City of Merritt Community Policing Office (CPO) will reopen to the public. The Community Policing Office will be open by appointment only for bike registrations, crime prevention information, and program inquiries.
Tourism Merritt
VISIT MERRITT ToConnect book an appointment phone thewebsite 250-378-3955 orTOURISM email with us on our new tourism and social media.cpo@merritt.ca.
FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO
www.tourismmerritt.com • #ExploreMerritt For more information on the CPO programs and services please visit Including safe visiting advice and local services www.merritt.ca/community-policing
www.tourismmerritt.ca
VISIT TOURISM MERRITT VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO
EVEN ADDRESSES Mon/Wed/Fri ODD ADDRESSES Tues/Thurs/Sat AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS: on your respective days midnight to 4:00 AM *NO SPRINKLING SUNDAYS � TOURISM TH Effective May 1ST to September T 30T #ExploreMerritt
� � TOURISM
www.merrittherald.com
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 5
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
COVID VACCINE
First round of vaccines reach some Florentine residents, not others Scheduling and expiration dates plagued Merritt’s first shipment of vaccines. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM With a batch of COVID-19 vaccines hitting the Merritt area last week for the first time, immunization clinics were quick to be held at the Nicola Valley Hospital. Among those first to have the opportunity to receive the vaccine were supposed to be the residents of The Florentine Retirement and Assisted Living Facility, though scheduling issues plagued the first round. “We provided IHA (Interior Health Authority) with a list of all of our residents, as well as contractors and subcontractors who regularly interface with our site,” said Frank Rizzardo, President of The Florentine, in a phone interview. The list was able to provide IHA with a planning number of sorts, which was then transferred over to the hospital staff. From there, residents were then able to contact the hospital to schedule an inoculation time. “On their website, I believe, it would show the number of spots available for each of those times,” said Rizzardo, who added that some Florentine residents were successful in booking the time slot that they requested, while others were not. “Sometimes, unfortunately, people don’t adhere to the process. We had a couple of our people show up, and there were 30 people waiting, and only 13 inoculations were available. That will eventually get worked through, that is a process that is an administra-
Rizzardo is confident that the program will be accelerated once more vaccination shipments reach Merritt, and if/when another vaccine is
approved. Canada is on track to receive around 6-million vaccines by the end of March.
tion process. “I expect that if somebody showed up, and there would be a gap, with only a short time left in validity or functionality of the vaccine, that they have already thought it out that it could be wasted, they are not going to waste it. They will inoculate anybody that is there.” According to a report from Health Early French Immersion Canada, the refrigerated shelf life of the Pfizer vaccine is five days, while for the Moderna vaccine it is 30 days. While Rizzardo can confirm with certainty that both residents and staff from The Florentine have received the Information Session: vaccinations, a number or a percentage is unavailable at this early stage. When: Wednesday, February 3, 2021 “There are a few factors, we have to Time: 6:30 p.m. get clearances from all of our employWhere: via Zoom ees and staff to take it...it’s not manParents wishing to attend the session please email CVschool@365.sd58.bc.ca datory, but it is recommended. Same for the link. with the residents, if there is a resident where the doctor might say that they French Immersion Kindergarten Registration: are compromised if they take it, that Monday,Kindergarten February 8 to Friday,Registration: February 19, 2021 FrenchWhen: Immersion there might be underlying conditions Where: Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca that might be affected by being vacWhen: How Monday, 8 to Friday, February 19, 2021 cinated.” doesFebruary registration take place? An email response from an Interior Where: Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca Registration for Kindergarten French Immersion will take place earlier than Health Media Relations representaneighborhood school registration. This will allow for equitable access and tive said that clinics will continue in betterregistration planning. Collettville is a school of choice with limited Merritt when more vaccine becomes How does takeif Elementary place?a lottery registration and as a result, needed, will take place to determine available. registration. Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview As with all communities, we are Registra7on forprocess. Kindergarten French Immersion will take place earlier than of the starting with priority groups identineighborhood school registra7on. This will allow for equitable access and beBer fied provincially,” read the response. For more information or if you have questions please contact Collettville “This is focused on our most vulnerplanning.Elementary ColleBville Elementary is a school of choice withPrincipal, limited registra7on an School at 250-378-2230 or email the Acting Ms. Becky able population, which is our seniors Puterbough at bputerbough@365.sd58.bc.ca as a result, if needed, a loBery will take place to determine registra7on. Please in long-term care and assisted living, visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for you a complete overview of the process. Thank and Welcome along with staff and physicians workto ing in those facilities. School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen). “As vaccine availability increases IH For more informa7on or if you have ques7ons please contact ColleBville will continue to expand into other priSuccess for ALL Learners Today and Tomorrow Elementary School at 250-378-2230 or email~the Ac7ng Principal, Ms. Becky ority groups.”
Early French Registration Immersion Kindergarten Information 2021
Kindergarten Registration Information 2021
Puterbough at bputerbough@365.sd58.bc.ca
REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPY SERVICES MERRITT! Thank youIN and Welcome to Call 250-376-1141 for appointment
NORTH KAMLOOPS PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC Manual Therapy • Exercise Therapy • Post-Surgical or Post-Fracture Rehabilitation • Sports Injuries • Dry Needling • Home Exercise Programs
Email: nkamloopsphysio@gmail.com • www.northkamloopsphysiotherapy.com
6 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
GOVERNMENT
Losing Keystone XL a failure of diplomacy Newly swornin United States President Joe Biden has signed an executive order rescinding the construction permit for the DAN ALBAS Keystone XL pipeline. VIEW FROM The loss of THE HILL the Keystone XL pipeline has a significant impact for Canada, in particular Alberta, in terms of job losses and billions lost from corporate income taxes, carbon taxes as well as royalty payments. The loss of the Keystone XL pipeline will also mean that US based refineries will have to increase importing crude oil from countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq, countries that have much weaker environmental and labour standards than here in Canada. A potential increase of shipments of oil by rail between Canada and the United States is also a likely outcome with the loss of the Keystone XL pipeline. For these reasons, the Keystone XL pipeline has been long supported by the Conservative Party both when in government and now in opposition. It has also been long supported by Prime Minister Trudeau. In fact, during his time in opposition, Justin Trudeau was clear that “one of the big things the Prime Minister needs to get right is getting our resources to market.” Mr. Trudeau also stated that if a US President veto’s Keystone XL “the Prime Minister has not fulfilled that responsibility.” Justin Trudeau was clear that if the Keystone XL pipeline is blocked by the United States that the “Prime Minister take personal responsibility for this diplomatic failure”. By Mr. Trudeau’s own words this potential Keystone XL pipeline failure is one that he must now take full responsibility for.
Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
MERRITT HERALD
VIEWPOINT
www.merrittherald.com
STUDENTS AND TEACHERS: SEND US YOUR ART FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED EACH WEEK! (HAILEY VERMIERE, GRADE 9, MERRITT SECONDARY.) SUBMISSIONS ARE PRINTED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS.
Teachers disappointed, says Federation prez From BC Teacher’s Federation President Teri Mooring. Our collective duty during the COVID-19 pandemic must always be about keeping people safe and saving lives. Making sure our elders are not put at risk or die because of COVID19 needs to be our top priority. BC teachers, like many others, will be disappointed to see there is no prioritization for the frontline workers who have kept our schools, public services, and economy open. There had
Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
been hope in prior announcements that such prioritization would be possible. However, the vaccine supply limit is beyond our control and those among us who are most vulnerable of death and serious illness must be vaccinated first. Hopefully more vaccines are approved and this immunization strategy will be appropriately adjusted and accelerated. There is no denying that teachers are stressed, anxious, and even afraid. We do not have the layers of protection in our schools that exist in other envi-
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
ronments. If teachers are not prioritized for a vaccine, this government must take immediate action to improve safety measures in our schools. We must have a mandatory mask mandate, we must have better physical distancing measures, and we must have ventilation upgrades for our classrooms. Schools need the same safety measures as every single other workplace. This government and school districts must do more.
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. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
www.merrittherald.com
LETTERS
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 7
OPINION
Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com
to the editor
From the Herald archives: January, 2010
New development: 5A an accident waiting to happen who really pays? Editor:
I have been following the discussion regarding truck traffic on Hwy. 5A and after much consideration have decided to share my own experience with truck traffic on that highway. I am now retired but have held a class 1 license for many years and have logged many hours behind the wheel of heavy trucks. Hwy. 5A is my preferred route when travelling between Merritt and Kamloops. A few weeks ago I was on 5A and considering whether to write a letter, in response to a newspaper article, to tell of how in the recent past I have been forced to take evasive action three times to avoid a head on collision with B-trains coming at me in my lane. Twice it was a truck going too fast to make the corner without coming into my lane. Once it was meeting two trucks side by side coming over the crest of a hill, far beyond the broken line which would permit a legal pass. At the very moment I was wondering whether to write about my experience a loaded B-train going too fast for the existing road conditions lost control in icy
conditions and came across the highway into my lane directly in front of me, and if I had not run into the snow bank on my side of the road I likely would not be here writing this letter. I have shared my experience with others who travel that highway and have found I’m not the only one with a story like that. I wonder how many others are out there with similar stories. Perhaps those who sit on the Regional District Board should not just be asking how many accidents have happened on that highway, but how many times has the driving public been put at serious risk and forced to take evasive action because of truck traffic on 5A. Mine is the story of just one driver, who would be glad to see that highway closed to heavy commercial truck traffic with the obvious exception of ranchers and loggers. This is not to fault the majority of truck drivers who operate on our highways safely. In addition the question has been raised whether that highway was ever designed for the loads that are hauled today. Rae Robinson Merritt
(RE: Pro-developer or pro-constituent? Jan. 21 edition) Editor: I agree with the letter by Steve Rose. He has fully outlined the need for new developments to complement the current OCP; and I too find it implausible to juxtapose multi-family, multi-storey high rises in the proposed locations now before our Council. Multi-family should be downtown where pedestrian facilities exist. But I am very concerned about something else; and my concern is promulgated by the abject absence of information from the City of Merritt. To wit; Just what population does Council want Merritt to be? Why? What is the rationale for this? I.e. do we have elements in our City that are not yet cost-effective---that will be resolved by the target population? Which ones?
In celebration of what would have been Elvis Presley’s 75th birthday this year, the Merritt BC Elvis Presley Fan Club organized a big fundraiser event at Cactus Annie’s at the Desert Inn. Dolly Jackson, president of the club, said the show was a great success. There were three Elvis tribute artists singing for the packed house, backed by the bands Appaloosa and the Uptown Horns.
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. Darch Oborne Merritt
Still ‘America First’ under new presidency Editor: Joe Biden may be just as bad as Donald Trump for Canada when it comes to implementing America First measures, including tariffs, jobs and industrial resources. We’ve endured it long before Trump’s presidency, with Republican and Democratic party administrations. For example, their tariffs on imports of our softwood lumber, regardless of the consistent independent (including international) trade-board rulings in
Cheeseburger
HARD ICE-CREAM, FRESH SALADS, COLD SANDWICHES AVAILABLE!
with fries & Gravy
BUTTER CHICKEN • SAMOSAS • FRESH FISH & CHIPS
Two week SPECIAL
Only.....
EAT IN OR TAKE OUT Starting Jan. 28 - Feb. 10, 2021 HOURS: Mon. - Thurs: 10:30 am - 6 pm & Fri.: 10:30 am - 7 pm
2052 Quilchena Ave.
ELVIS LIVES ON IN MERRITT
250-378-6292
9
99
+ tax
LETTERS POLICY
Canada’s favour. It’s as though our great neighbour south may always maintain such a sticking point, however unjustly, if only because they have the formidable weight. Maybe we’re expected to get used to it, somewhat like the child stuck with the school bully whose concept of his/ her fair share will always be three quarters of the pie.
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.
Frank Sterle Jr. White Rock
Grilled Ham & Cheese with poutine
Only.....
9
99 + tax
Half Butter Chicken with Veggie Samosa & Naan Bread
Only.....
9
99 + tax
8 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
HOUSING CRISIS
Supply not meeting demand in Merritt home market Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER It is no secret that housing in BC has become increasingly unaffordable. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, British Columbia is the most expensive province as far as average house prices go, with Vancouver being the most expensive city in Canada. The CD Howe Institute, a non-profit policy research organization, recently released a report which highlights several issues driving the high cost of housing within the province. They cited an increased demand without an increased supply, but also found that restrictive regulation was responsible for the bulk of excess cost in housing. Ideally, in a well-functioning housing market, the price of a home would be close to that of the cost to construct; this cost would include labour, materials, and the time it takes to build. “In any competitive market without barriers to entry, regardless of the product being sold, the overall market price should equal its marginal cost of production,” states the report.
“If prices persistently exceed this construction cost, it is often due to barriers that inhibit new construction. These barriers often stem from excessive regulation.” The CD Howe Institute delved into the exact cost of this excessive regulation in greater detail, finding that homebuyers were on the hook for more than half a million dollars as a result of housing restrictions in the city of Vancouver. “…homebuyers in the eight most restrictive cities paid an extra $229,000 per new house between 2017 and 2016,” reads the report. “In Vancouver, the cost of housing restrictions is by far the largest in Canada, at $600,000 for the average new house.” That number is now estimated to be closer to $644,000. When you consider that the average house in Vancouver costs $1,092,000, that amounts to more than half of the sale price. Not only do these restrictions affect the cost of new construction, they also, in turn, affect the cost of existing homes. Further studies have indicated that the regulatory burden in Vancouver is nearly equivalent to those of Manhattan, New York. For a time, municipalities outside of
We understand life happens. Legal services for your family & business:
• Real Estate • Wills & Estates • Business
Vancouver were not drastically affected by the increased cost of housing in the city itself, but that has changed in recent years as the rest of the province suffers the shockwaves of exorbitant housing costs in the Lower Mainland. Kelowna is now another of the province’s most expensive cities, with the report turning up similarities between added cost there and in Vancouver. Restriction cost per square foot in Kelowna is $120, in Vancouver it is $322. Restriction cost as a percentage of cost in Kelowna is 27%, in Vancouver it is 50%. The average new, single-family house price in Kelowna is $775,000, in Vancouver it is $1,298,000. Increase in cost per new house in Kelowna is $207,000, in Vancouver it is $644,000.
Merritt, a town of just over 7,000 people, is located between the highly desired real estate markets of the Lower Mainland and the Okanagan, with Vancouver three hours to the southwest and Kelowna one and a half hours to the southeast. Housing prices in the community have skyrocketed in recent years, increasing in some cases by more than 200%. As an example, a selection of three homes sold in Merritt in 2004: House 1) $145,000 House 2) $45,500 House 3) $150,000 Those same houses were once again listed for sale in 2020: House 1) $529,000 House 2) $189,900 House 3) $499,900
See ‘DEVELOPMENT’ Page 9
Early French Immersion
Early French Registration Immersion Kindergarten Information 2021
Kindergarten Registration
Information Session:
When: Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Time: 6:30 p.m. Where: via Zoom Parents wishing to attend the session please email CVschool@365.sd58.bc.ca for the link.
Information 2021
French Immersion Kindergarten Registration:
Monday,Kindergarten February 8 to Friday,Registration: February 19, 2021 FrenchWhen: Immersion Where: Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca
Served By Ben van der Gracht & Jacob M. Brown
1-888-374-3350 | morellichertkow.com
When: How Monday, 8 to Friday, February 19, 2021 doesFebruary registration take place? Where: Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca
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 Registra7on forprocess. Kindergarten French Immersion will take place earlier than of the
How does registration take place?
neighborhood school registra7on. This will allow for equitable access and beBer For more information or if you have questions please contact Collettville planning.Elementary ColleBville Elementary is a school of choice withPrincipal, limited registra7on and School at 250-378-2230 or email the Acting Ms. Becky Puterbough at bputerbough@365.sd58.bc.ca as a result, if needed, a loBery will take place to determine registra7on. Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for you a complete overview of the process. Thank and Welcome to School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen).
Merritt | Kamloops | Ashcroft | Williams Lake For more informa7on or if you have ques7ons please contact ColleBville BC’s Interior law firm — supporting families, individuals, and businesses since 1911.
Success for ALL Learners Today and Tomorrow Elementary School at 250-378-2230 or email~the Ac7ng Principal, Ms. Becky Puterbough at bputerbough@365.sd58.bc.ca
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Development a hot topic as Merritt population grows From Page 8 After adjusting for inflation using the Bank of Canada inflation calculator, the cost of these houses has risen by 279.86%, 320.16% and 255.65%, respectively. Part of the reason for this increase in cost is due to the fact that Merritt has not added a significant number of new homes to its neighbourhoods in several years, limiting the supply as the demand continues to increase. According to a Housing Needs Report by the City of Merritt, Merritt’s population grew 3% overall between 2006 and 2016, with a 9% growth projected from 2016 to 2025 (about 1% per year). Household totals grew nearly 10%, from 2,975 in 2006 to 3,260 by 2016. It is estimated that Merritt may possibly reach 3,840 households by 2025. As such, development has become a hot topic in the community, with as many as four potential developments being pro-
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 9
posed to the council, and construction of a new four-storey apartment building on Walters St. now well underway. However, realtor Tony Luck, who serves on the Merritt City Council after moving to the Nicola Valley from Mission where he also served as a councillor, believes the regulatory burden placed on development is as much an issue in small towns like Merritt as it is in major cities. “I think it’s relevant,” said Luck. “What’s going on down there (Vancouver) cascades into all of the province. I think it’s important here. It’s an important piece that we need to address. Some of the problems like supply are huge. Government regulation is huge, what government does to create anything but affordability for housing, fees, taxes, land use, land use restrictions, all those kinds of things. That happens here as much as it does in the Lower Mainland, it’s a little more common in the Lower Mainland but there are some systemic things that have
Melody Simon “Your Merritt Real Estate Professional” 7-1098 HOUSTON STREET 1500 sqft modular that has undergone a rebuild in 2007. The home consisted of 2 possibly 5 bedrooms and a massive kitchen and living area. Outside walls are all 2X6 fir construction with all vinyl windows and drywall throughout. The house needs some finishing, has a new electrical upgrade. melodyproperty2@gmail.com This home is located in the desirable SPECIALIZING IN: Riverside Trailer Park. Residential, Commercial & Farm
Cell: 250-315-8539
RE/MAX Real Estate (Kamloops) 258 Seymour St, Kamloops, BC
MLS#159472
$99,900
been set in place.” Luck made reference to a Gyourko and Malloy report which indicated, “increas-
‘‘
“Government is the biggest impediment to affordability and accessibility of housing.” — Tony Luck, Merritt Realtor
ing the strictness of building regulations increases housing prices by limiting the
growth in housing supply”, in some cases by as much as 22%. This same report looked at housing markets in the US and Europe, and discovered this to be true across the board. It was determined that cities in England could cut housing costs by roughly 25% if the most restrictive region changed its policies to align with those of the least restrictive region. American cities with more regulations surrounding housing created a ‘bubble’ and had higher volatility in house prices. “Government is the biggest impediment to affordability and accessibility of housing,” said Luck. And Luck believes that is not just in the matter of overbearing regulation, but also a lack of available land due to the fact that 94% of BC is held by the province as Crown Land, with another 1% held federally.
See ‘LACK’ Page 12 21014MM3
10 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
CENTURY 21 Moving Real Estate
#102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8 ®
Doug Beech (Owner) 250-378-7392
BC LTD.
250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100 6581 MONCK PARK ROAD
1975 2ND AVE.
THURSDAY January 28, 2021 • 11
www.merrittherald.com
Melonie Ivanic 778-803-6554
Don Gossoo, Managing Broker
1826 DOUGLAS STREET
#42, 254 HWY. 8
1802 BLAIR ST
D
SELLERS – Why wait until spring? List your home NOW when there is less competition. Call us for a FREE Market Evaluation.
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.
3 bedroom, 3 level row house with 2 pce bath on main, 4 pce bath on upper level with bedrooms. Has newer HT want & furnace. Close to elementary school. Good investment.
2020 mobile home with 2 bedrms, master bedrm with W/I closet and 3 pce ensuite. Home has 10 yr warranty. Comes with natural gas S/S stove, S/S fridge & dishwasher, and new washer/dryer. Laminate flooring
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
#3212
#3228
#3221 $209,900
#3236 $205,900
#3237 $295,000
1801 MENZIES ST
1801 QUILCHENA AVE
390 COYLE PLACE
6433 MONCK PARK ROAD
6427 MONCK PARK ROAD
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.
#3181
2800 MCLEAN PLACE
#209, 2514 SPRING BANK
Karen Yakimchuk 250-315-3076
Personal Real Estate Corporation
250-315-3043
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.
$429,000
Brad Yakimchuk
movingrealestate.c21.ca
SOL
$1,099,000
Jared Thomas 778-694-6804
900 KANE VALLEY RD
1926 QUILCHENA AVE
2380 NICOLA AVE.
This 10.53 acre property is ready for your cabin getaway from the city. Power is at the paved road. Great recreational area to x-country skiing, fishing, hiking, biking. Has seasonal creek. Easy access from Coquihalla Hwy. at Exit 256
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.
Former auto repair shop in a highly visible location. 3 bay shop with 1 bay with 12 ft door & hoist, other 2 have 10 ft doors. Has storage room & office with reception area. 2608 sq.ft. building with parking. Call for details.
#3231
#3238
#3197
$279,900
$495,000
FOR LEASE
1550 WALNUT AVENUE
1101 MIDDAY VALLEY RD
2845 NEILSON ST
Lake view 1 acre lot with 180 degree views of Nicola Lake. 2.5 hrs from the coast and just 20 minutes from Merritt. Boat launch just minutes away. Build your dream home or vacation getaway
Close to half acre lot with city utilities with a 46x28 shop with power and 2 pce bathroom. Shop has high ceiling clearance. Quiet location near end of no-thru street. Great place to have a home with your own shop! Call for more details
10 acre site with CD-1 zoning. Has City Service not yet connected. Lots of potential located near truck route. Bring your ideas.
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.
#3210
#3222
#2958
#3090
D
SOL 5 bedrm, 4 bath home, very clean with some upgrades. Private living & dining room , spacious kitchen that opens to family room.Basement has big rec.rm, 2 bedrms & bathrm. Large sundeck in fenced backyard, nicely landscaped. RV parking
New 2 storey townhouse in Nicola Bluffs with great views. Open concept kitchen with Quartz countertops, vinyl plank floors, gas F/P 3 bedrms up, 4 baths and full bsmt. Has $4,000 appliance package & central A/C.
3 bedroom half duplex with some newer flooring, roof and windows. Large kitchen with eating area and living room on main floor. Nicely kept yard. Currently tenanted.
1288 sq.ft. rancher in good area of downtown. Within walking distance to shopping & amenities. Has 3 bedrooms & 2 baths. Currently tenanted. 24 hrs notice
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.
#3233
#3230
#3224
#3226 $249,900
#3208 $450,000
2749 PEREGRINE WAY
1809 MENZIES ST
$489,900
2770 PEREGRINE WAY
$414,900 +GST
2760 PEREGRINE WAY
$239,900
2861 MCLEAN PLACE
D
$165,000
$124,900
1561 MILLER ROAD
2288 BURGESS AVE
New executive family home on the Bench with views. 3 bedrms, 2 baths, designer kitchen with quartz counters, gas F/P in living room, 5 pce ensuite & a full unfinished basement. GST applies
Level lot in quiet area within few minutes drive of all amenities. Zoned R2, could build a duplex or single family home with legal suite. Finished homes in this area selling in $500,000 range.
New custom executive home with fantastic views. 3 bedrms on the main with open concept floor plan. Master has 4 pce ensuite & W/I closet. Large private deck in back off the family room.
3 bedroom half duplex in good area with lane access. Has newer roof & some newer flooring. Large kitchen with eating area and large living room. Some windows replaced. Currently tenanted
Spectacular 76 acre property in Miller Estates with fantastic panoramic views of the river and valley below. Has Cooperative water system & power at lot line. GST applies.
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.
#3205
#3203
#3239 $105,000
#3204
#3225
#3240
#3235 $210,000
$739,900
$1,650,000.
200 VEALE ROAD
LOT A, MIDDAY VALLEY RD
11 acres with drilled well, fenced with good potential and fantastic views. Easy access, located off Coldwater Rd just 10 minutes south of Merritt. Great place to build your dream home.
Approx. 122 acres of multiple zonings. C-4, C-6 and R-1. Call for more details on this acreage and bring your ideas
#3167 $285,000
#2957
SOL
Spacious new home with open concept floor plan, spectacular views & high quality finishing. 2 bedrms up, master on the main & 2 more down, 4 baths & full unfin. Bsmt. New Home Warranty. Double garage
MIDDAY VALLEY ROAD
$699,000
D
SOL
$739,9000 + GST
$200,000
$639,900+ GST
$239,900
Find out why people are moving to smaller communities in BC, like Merritt. Give us a call.
$475,000
Spius Creek Estates
Approximately 5 acre parcel, north facing, with fantastic views. City services, not currently connected. Zoned R-9 High Density Residential. Great opportunity. Call for details.
#2962
$300,000
Grandview Heights
$1,584,000
CHECK OUT OUR
ONLY 3 LEFT!
WEBSITE FOR MORE RESIDENTIAL VIEW LOTS
Located Off Petit Creek Road
Prices starting at $279,000 Country living at its best! Approx. 10 acres lots located 15 minutest west of Merritt in the beautiful Sunshine Valley. These properties have stunning views of the valley. Great area for horseback riding, biking, hiking and more. Call for full details. GST applies.
#3145
Prices Starting at $104,000 + GST Fully serviced residential lots with fantastic views of the Nicola Valley and surrounding mountains. Choose your lot, bring your plans & start building your future! Close to shopping. #3213
DETAILS ON THESE LISTINGS.
movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166
12 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Lack of Merritt housing affordability mirrors province From Page 9 “I think the thing that’s impeding housing affordability in Merritt is the same thing that’s impeding housing affordability all over the province,” said Luck. “In 1955 when I was born, we had a million people in the province. At that time, those million people were fighting over less than 5% of the province to build homes on. If we jump ahead 65 years, the population of British Columbia now is over 5 million, so now 5 million people are competing for the
same amount of property available for private ownership.” “There are a lot of people who want to say supply has nothing to do with pricing, well that’s just absolute garbage,” Luck continued. “If supply is low, demand is high, prices are up. It’s been proven so many times. So, in BC we have a land shortage for housing development. And in Merritt now, we have a land shortage to build affordable housing. Look at the issues we’re up against in Merritt. One, we have a lot of slope land, unstable land.
www.merrittherald.com
And we have a huge floodplain in Merritt which eliminates a bunch of property, there are a couple of natural restrictions that are causing us to have only so much land. We are very limited with the amount of land here in Merritt available for housing.” Despite predictions by CMHC, BC Assessment and some of the biggest banks and financial institutions, home prices have continued to increase, even during the COVID19 pandemic. This is a trend that Luck doesn’t believe will change unless there is a
drastic overhaul of BC’s systems of housing regulation and restrictions. Merritt may be poised to benefit from a development boom, but for those looking to put a roof over their heads, the price tag of that boom may just be more than they can bear. “We do a lot of things to restrict housing through fees, legislation and things like that,” concluded Luck. “We’re not the only community dealing with this, we’re just seeing it now because people have recognized Merritt as a nice place to come to.”
POLICE FILES Man wanted on outstanding impaired warrant Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER Merritt RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Jesse Joseph Cyr, a 30-year-old man with an outstanding arrest warrant stemming from an incident which took place near Merritt on Jun. 19, 2011. Cyr is charged with: - Count 1, Impaired driving causing bodily harm; - Count 2, Causing an
Digital Online Advertising services. • website design and tracking • social media management • blog management • community display • paid search and so much more!
Taking care of all your advertising needs to keep your business up to date!
CONTACT THERESA
for more information at 250-378-4241 email: publisher@merrittherald.com
accident resulting in bodily harm; - Count 3, Dangerous driving causing bodily harm. Cyr is currently believed to be living in the Lower Mainland. If you have any information regarding Cyr’s whereabouts, please contact the police detachment of your jurisdiction or call the Merritt RCMP at 250 – 378 – 4262.
www.merrittherald.com
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 13
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
GROWING MERRITT
Council hears from public on Lindley Creek plans A virtual Public Hearing was held Tuesday night in which Merrittonians were given the opportunity to have their thoughts heard on the proposed development on Lindley Creek Rd. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the public was not able to attend the hearing in person, but were given the option to send letters of opposition or support, which were then read aloud by staff for council and the public to consider. Over the course of the one-hour hearing, staff read numerous letters which indicated an overwhelming opposition to the project. Issues cited were a lack of infrastructure in Collettville, such as sidewalks and proper ditches and storm drains, as well as increased traffic and loss of Collettville’s character. “This property used to be rangeland, then bought and converted into residential low density,” read one letter.
“Now, a developer after purchasing wants to change the neighbourhood to high density. This is not acceptable to the history of Collettville. The purchaser of the… property in question must have understood the current designation and if they did not like the designation, they should not have purchased it, and the developer should not proceed down this road.” Mention was made that Collettville had been promised sidewalks, among other amenities, when they joined Merritt more than two decades ago. These have never materialized, and the suggestion was that the City should fulfill its promises to Collettville residents before moving land by designation out of the neighbourhood in order to begin a new project. “As we all know Collettville joined Merritt out of the TNRD in the mid-1990s, when we joined Merritt we were promised the moon,” read a submitted letter. Following the Public Hearing, Mayor and Council
debated both the OCP Amendment Bylaw and the Zoning Amendment Bylaw, which would see the parcel redesignated as ‘South Merritt’ from Collettville, and change the zoning from Low Density Residential (R2), Medium Density Residential (R7) and Future Development (FD) to Medium Density Residential (R7), Mobile Home Park (R5) and Park & Cemetery (P1).
Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905
T he benefiTs furnace and SELECTION ducT cleaning STOP BY AND ANDof SEE OUR NEW NEW OF: STOP BY SEE OUR SELECTION OF • Helps relieve asthma and allergy suffering • Provides a clear and healthier living environment • Reduces heating and cooling costs • Removes gyproc dust and other accumulated debris
beachcomber HOT TUBS
beachcomber
COPPER VALLEY MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS LTD.
H O250-378-5104 T TUBS
2151 Coutlee Ave., Merritt
COPPER VALLEY
BEST IN TOWN! NEW LOCATION: 3581 Voght St., Merritt
♥
MERRITT HERALD THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2021 •
MSS CASES
MSS has been confirmed to have seen two positive COVID-19 cases in its community.
themerrittherald •
> www.merrittherald.com
STABBING
/PAGE 3
A stabbing at Rocky Pines sent one man into emergency surgery at Royal Inland Hospital.
/PAGE 5
FREE
CENTS TALK
a Kamloops native.
The Centennials added to their blue line by bringing in
/PAGE 15
NEW BEGINNING
PREVENT FROM Here a few helpful hints toTHEFTS help prevent motor YOUR1 MOTOR VEHICLE vehilcle break-ins: Don’t leave purses or valuables
This message message brought brought to to you you by by This
ALL FOOD NO MSG
to our donors for making it possible to bring back our printed edition of the newspaper. We would not have been able to do it without you.
PREVENT PREVENTTHEFTS THEFTSFROM FROM YOUR VEHICLE YOURMOTOR MOTOR VEHICLE inside vehicles overnight. Here a few helpful hints to help prevent motor vehilcle break-ins: 21 Lock vehicles when exiting, Don’t leave purses or valuables inside itvehicles make a habit.overnight. 2 Lock vehicles when in exiting, 3 If leaving valuables a make it a habit. vehicle; hide from sight. 3 If leaving valuables in a vehicle; from sight. 4 Park in a hide well lit area. Park in any a well lit area. 54 Report thefts, damage or 5 Report any thefts, damage or suspicious suspicious persons persons to to police police
Councillor Kurt Christopherson spoke in support of the change, reassuring people that Collettville would still maintain its character. “Changing the sectors isn’t going to change the character of Collettville,” said Christopherson. Third Reading and Adoption of the Zoning Amendment were also carried with only Councillor Mike Bhangu opposed.
THANK YOU! THIS WEEK
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER
NOW OPEN
RISING FROM THE ASHES: Work is moving fast on rebuilding the historic Murray Church, after the church’s committee reached it’s fundraising goal two years after it was burned to the ground by arson. STORY /PAGE 10
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
Speciaalnk You Th 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 • 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
14 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
Painter captures Merritt’s beauty in book Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER Local painter Jean Kiegerl has put together a book of her paintings showcasing the beauty of Merritt and the countryside that surrounds it. “It’s a book of paintings that I’ve done over the last 30 years,” explained Kiegerl, whose first book was created at that time three decades ago. “I originally made one for my sister, kind of as a joke, because back then I was just kind of amazed that the pictures turned out. My first book was called ‘Jean’s Secret Talent Exposed’ and it looked so good that I printed a few more copies for my family and one for me.” Kiegerl was featured last year at a show at the Nicola Valley Arts Gallery called ‘Art for the Love of It’, in which her work was displayed alongside stained glass from Twin Willows Glass. It was heading into this show that Kiegerl thought her original book of art could be dusted off and brought out for others to see. “When I had the show in October, I thought that would be a place to show it off,” said Kiegerl. “But then I realized it was out of date, so I updated it and then somebody actually wanted to buy one, which totally surprised me.”
Kiegerl asked her new customer what it was about the book that she liked, and the woman told her that she loved the local aspect, and how many places she recognized. Feeling that the woman had made an excellent point, Kiegerl went to work creating a book that featured nearly all paintings of Merritt and the Nicola Valley. “I focused this one on local pictures, rather than my travel photos and my personal story, so that it was more about painting in the Nicola Valley and in Merritt,” said Kiegerl, who has always been inspired by the beauty of the area. “It’s a beautiful part of the world. It has so many different landscapes and so many different lights, sunrises and sunsets and light on different sides of the hills, it’s just beautiful.” The book features paintings from several mediums, as Kiegerl has enjoyed experimenting and changing up her technique over the years. “I do black and white sketches and sometimes I add water colour to them,” said Kiegerl. “Sometimes I do just straight pencil and watercolour and erase the pencil. Sometimes the pencil enhances it and sometimes it’s just in the way, but it can be erased. And then nobody knows if you painted outside of the lines,” she joked.
After embracing acrylics for a while, Kiegerl finally got “brave enough” and made the leap to oil painting, something she had wanted to do for quite some time. “It’s a real challenge but it’s a beautiful medium, and it has been for 500 years,” said Kiegerl. “All of the old medieval paintings are crackled, and that’s a quality of the oil paint. Over time it will crackle, and if you don’t handle it correctly it will crackle much sooner, like within a couple years. And it will crackle and fall off if you don’t do things properly. One of the interesting things is that with the really old oil paintings, is that because they are crackled, they can carbon date the dust in the cracks and know whether or not it’s a fake. Museums do that if people are trying to sell them a newly found Leonardo DaVinci, it might be newly painted as well,” Kiegerl laughed. At this time, Kiegerl’s latest book ‘Just a Local Artist’, is available on order by prepay only through the artist. If you would like to view the book or more of Kiegerl’s work, as well as the work of other talented Nicola Valley artists, you are encouraged to head down to the Nicola Valley Arts Gallery on Voght St. A copy of ‘Just a Local Artist’ is also available at the Merritt Library.
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
www.merrittherald.com
The new bell at the rebuilt Murray Church was installed Wednesday morning, marking a monumentous step in the historic site’s return to glory. Morgan Hampton/Herald
WE NEED YOU
ARE YOU LISTED IN OUR CONNECTOR PHONE BOOK? THE CONNE Business
2020 LOC
Directory
| City Ma
ps | Calend ar of eve
AL TELEP
CITY MAPS : FIRST NAT MERRITT – LOWER IONS GOVERN NICOLA – UTILITY LOGAN MENT
SERVICE NUM LAKE OFF BERS | EM ICES SERVING: ERG MERRITT, LOGAN LAK ENCY SERVICE NUM E, QUILCH ENA, DOU BERS GLAS LAK E & LOW
CTOR
HONE DIR
ER NICOLA
nts
E C T O RY
TELUS LISTINGS ARE ACCUMULATED ANNUALLY AND ASSEMBLED TO GIVE YOU A FREE LOCAL BUSINESS & RESIDENTIAL TELEPHONE DIRECTORY. IF YOU WERE NOT IN LAST YEARS CONNECTOR PHONE BOOK, WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE YOUR CELL PHONE #, OR HAVE UPDATED INFORMATION, PLEASE
CALL 250.378.4241 EMAIL PUBLISHER@MERRITTHERALD.COM
www.merrittherald.com
SPORTS
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 15
Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com.
STELLAR STUDENT
Merritt native recognized by Rotary Story provided by the Rotary Club of Penticton. The Rotary Club of Penticton Sunrise is pleased to recognize Manjot (Manny) Panghli, an immensely gifted, hard-working and compassionate Grade 12 student athlete at Penticton Secondary School, as Rotary Student of the Month for January. Panghli, who is 16 years old, is the younger of two children in a close-knit, community-minded family. Well coached at home in core life skills conducive to selffulfillment and career success, he has harnessed his inquisitivefuelled intellect, grit and highoctane energy to excel in hockey and scholastics while undertaking impactful charitable activities. Panghli epitomizes the elite student athlete. Highly motivated, self-disciplined and driven, he eagerly embraces the pursuit of excellence, both in the classroom at Pen High and in the well-structured training environment at the Okanagan Hockey Academy. Panghli spent his childhood in Merritt and moved to Kamloops in June 2018 before relocating to Penticton this past September to enrol in the OHA. Unlike many hockey greats, including Wayne Gretzky, who began skating at age two, Panghli did not start playing hockey until age eight,
becoming a goalie at age ten. Panghli has played competitive (rep level) hockey since grade seven. Last season, he enjoyed a banner year, backstopping the Thompson Blazers U-16 AAA team to a 12-4 record, while garnering the team’s MVP award for his strong play and quiet leadership qualities. Blazers’ coach Crosby Dorais said, “Manny has matured into an accomplished, personable and well-rounded young man with excellent leadership and interpersonal skills.” Currently, Panghli is affiliated with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks of the BCHL. Last month he was added to the protected list of the Spokane Chiefs, opening the door for him to advance to Major Junior A (Tier 1 level) next year. OHA U-17 Prep Team Coach Robert Dirk said, “Manny’s development has been incredible in his four months here, enabling him to become one of the most promising goalies in the program. Mature and genuine, he is an avid student who listens carefully to instructions and focuses on the finer elements that separate the premier players from the rest.” Panghli’s fervent desire to excel extends to the classroom. Last year, he carried a demanding load of ten in-school and online courses, including English 10 and 11, Pre-calculus 11 and
Local clubs approved for sporting grants
12, Bio 11 and Chem 11, recording an average grade of 93%. This fall session at Pen High, he achieved an average grade of 92% in six courses, providing him with sufficient credits to graduate early. Panghli’s favourite subjects are English and History, as they afford him “an opportunity to gain insight into different cultures and traditions.”
Manny Panghli was recently named a student of the month in Penticton. Photo submitted
Pen High English teacher Wayne Kuechle said, “Manny is one of the most amazing young people I have met in my 26 years of teaching. My job is to instill confidence, compassion, and knowledge and yet I feel – in teaching Manny – that I too have
Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM A pair of local sporting organizations are receiving some much needed funds. The Nicola Valley Rodeo Association and the Merritt Curling Club are both recipients of BC’s $1.5-million Local
been enriched. He has such a genuine passion, fuelled by a big heart, that he transforms into action to make an impactful difference.” Pen High History teacher Russell Reid said, “In class, Manny is always actively engaged, asking probing questions in order to fully understand the subject material. He ‘speaks softly but carries a big stick’that is, while he is reserved, his actions, empathy and insight hold great weight.” Dave Nackoney, OHA counsellor at Pen High, said he is “a quiet leader who earns respect through his ability and actions. Manny has a bright future in hockey. But hockey is really only part of who Manny is. He is dedicated to his family and very sincere and considerate to others. Very few people have the vision to see the needs of others like Manny does. He is, in fact, one of the kindest and caring young men I have ever met during my 30 years in education.” Panghli’s humanitarian work began while attending Merritt Central Elementary School when he noticed that some fellow students were coming to school on an empty stomach. This led him and his older sister, Simren, to enlist local businesses to support the school-based breakfast program. A second food drive
Sport Relief Fund. “Coaches, volunteers and board members have worked around the clock to ensure people can keep active and gain the physical and mental benefits of sport during the pandemic,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “We heard their
challenges to meet financial pressures with current health orders in place and are proud to provide this additional support so our communities can continue to offer sport in a safe way.” As per NVRA representative Gert Leslie, the rodeo association received $2,500. Leslie said that the
was undertaken in December 2017 with them raising $1,000, a donation sufficient to cover two months of nutritious breakfasts. Last June, in response to COVID-19, Manny himself collected 166 pounds of food items for the Kamloops Food Bank. Last month, he personally obtained a #RisingYouth community service grant for $750 from TakingITGlobal, a Torontobased charity NGO, in support of the local Salvation Army Food Bank. Panghli is quick to credit Simren, his enduring role model, and her intrinsic altruism for igniting his burning passion for helping others. During quiet moments, Panghli enjoys reading history and cooking tandoori chicken and other scrumptious traditional Punjabi dishes for family and friends. Where Panghli goes from here – possibly to make the Spokane Chiefs’ roster or to enrol in BSc studies at Thompson Rivers University -- is anyone’s guess. But one prediction seems certain. Given his unquenchable thirst for knowledge, grit, strong work ethic and humble, caring demeanour, he seems destined to enjoy a prolific and rewarding career while enriching the lives of many others along the way.
grant will be used to mainly offset general expenses, like routine maintenance and insurance. She added that without having a rodeo last September, the grant is “a very welcome gift to help make it through the coming year.” Eligible expenses include
insurance, administrative costs, rent, storage costs, equipment essential to providing sports programs and COVID-19 related supplies, such as cleaning products, signage and personal protective equipment. The amount received by the Merritt Curling Club is not yet known.
16 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
BUSINESS FEATURE
Do you want to nominate a business? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing reporter@merrittherald.com.
Kruse N’ Style has been a staple of Merritt’s hair and beauty industry for more than three decades, with owner Cindy Kruse opening up shop 33 years ago, first operating out of a storefront she split with her father. “When I started the salon, the new Merritt store was purchased by my father, it’s where Quilchena Cannabis is now… he cut the building in half and I built my salon.” There was also an apartment in the back of the building where Kruse lived, making the salon her full-time home and business for several years. Kruse N’ Style operated out of this original location for 23 and a half years before moving into the storefront that the salon now occupies at 1990
Quilchena Ave. Before this, Kruse had moved away to live and work in Kamloops, where she pursued her hairdressing career. “I think that I wanted to do it even when I was very young, like when you’re doing Barbie doll hair,” said Kruse. However, Kruse found that she didn’t enjoy life in the city as much as she’d thought, and it didn’t take long until she decided that a move back to the Nicola Valley was in order. “I’d been born and raised here, and I used to come home every weekend and cut hair in my parents’ basement, so I had a large clientele already in Merritt,” explained Kruse. “It just kind of made sense to give it
a whirl and go into business.” It was at this time that Kruse took up space in the other half of her father’s shop. However, she was still facing a bit of a conundrum. What should she name her new business? Although she gave it considerable thought, she was stumped and couldn’t come up with a name that she liked. “I didn’t know what to name the salon, I really struggled to name the salon,” said Kruse. She reached out to the community she planned to serve and asked what they thought her business should be called. “I put a contest in the Merritt Herald for a $50 gift certificate.” After sifting through the various submissions, ‘Kruse
N’ Style’ emerged as a top contender, and became the official name of Cindy’s salon, with Wendy Taylor winning the contest and the $50 gift certificate. Now, Kruse credits the success of the salon to the consistent, quality service that clients receive from both herself and her staff, some of whom have been there since the salon first opened its doors. Although the COVID-19 pandemic made things difficult for salons, Kruse has said that since reopening there have been no issues and that her clients have been supportive and cooperative. “Even through COVID we have survived quite well because we have such a loyal clientele,” said Kruse. “I have incred-
ible staff, Jeanine has been here since day one, Darcy came one year later, Sherry’s been here for nine years, Maureen’s been here for four years. It’s not often you get a group of girls like this.” The staff are so popular that Kruse N’ Style has been voted ‘Best Hair Salon’ in the Herald’s People’s Choice Awards two years in a row. As for COVID19 safety precautions, everything is sanitized on a regular basis. The front door remains locked with clients being let in at their appointment time. Hand sanitizer is presented at the front door, and customers are given a fresh mask to put on. Once in that chair, the list of services is nearly endless, as there is a wide variety of expertise amongst the staff. “Each of us have a unique quality and we complement each other,” said Kruse. “And a lot of times when a client is phoning and they’re looking for something or describing something specific we’re able to know each other well enough that we can steer the client in that direction.”
Although there were no doubt opportunities along the way for Kruse to move her business to a bigger centre, she is glad she made the decision to stay in Merritt. “I like living in a small town, I like a simple life,” said Kruse. “It beats living in such a busy city, you get to know your clients on a personal level. Here when you walk into the grocery store or if you walk into the pharmacy or Fields, you recognize faces, you know people.”
Scattered Flurries High -1˚C Low: -7˚C
Fri. Jan. 29
Mix of Sun & Clouds High: 1˚C Low: -3˚C
Sat. Jan. 30
A Few Flurries High: 0˚C Low: -4˚C
Sun. Jan. 31
Mon. Feb. 1
Tues. Feb. 2
Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■
1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000
THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church
2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt 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 2nd & 4th Sundays/ Sunday School (K-Gr. 4) - 10 am
Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 3:30 pm • 250-280-1268
Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
7 Day Weather Forecast for Merritt, BC - Thursday, Jan. 28 - Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021 Thurs. Jan. 28
CONTAIN-IT STORAGE
Wed. Feb. 3
Stain Glass by
Almerina Rizzardo
• • • • A Few Flurries High: 1˚C Low: -3˚C
A Few Flurries High:1˚C Low: -1˚C
Mix of Sun & Clouds High: 2˚C Low: -4˚C
Mix of Sun & Clouds High: -1˚C Low: -5˚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, January 28, 2021 • 17
www.merrittherald.com
CLASSIFIEDS
Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: 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 TAKE YOUR CONFIDENCE & communications up a level. Get the career and family life of your dreams! Join a Toastmasters International group near you. www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club
Obituaries
Merritt Funeral Chapel A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
Celebrating each life like no other
1-866-669-9222
Book by province or whole country and save over 85%!
Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m
www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379
MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY ADVANCE CARE PLANNING is a choice that allows individuals to make health care decisions now, in case they cannot give consent for treatments offered in the future P: 250-280-1701
Find
www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
BIG Savings...
When You Place Your Ad in the Classifieds!
merrittherald.com
Thank You
Thank You
Thank You!
The Jager family would like to thank everyone who attended, bringing everything from food, to flowers, gifts, and donations. Also to the drummers, singers, those who prayed, those who performed the smudging, the ambulance service, and anyone else we missed as there are too many to mention.
Special Events
Obituaries
Obituaries
Obituaries
Special Events
PLEASE PLEASE RECYCLE RECYCLE THIS THIS NEWSPAPER. NEWSPAPER.
For Sale - Misc INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. Adam.s@integritybuilt.com 1-250-351-5374 www.intergritybuild.com
Wanted Cash for gold and silver! Also buying coin collections, old money, old jewelry Contact Todd 1250-864-3521.
Legal / Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE Jamie Gordon Payment for your storage is now overdue
Payment is required before February 4th, 2021 After this date your contents will be disposed. Contain It Storage.
Employment
Employment
NICOLA VALLEY SHELTER AND SUPPORT SOCIETY Is seeking a full time
Thomas Nelson Haws
SOCIAL WORKER/ CASE MANAGER
April 13, 1930- January 17, 2021
REGULAR OFFICE HOURS On Call 24 Hours A Day
GET RESULTS! Reach almost 2 million people in 95 papers for only $395/week for a 25-word text ad, or $995/week for a formatted display ad bccommunitynews.com/ advertise
Obituaries
The biggest range has gained a cowboy. Thomas Haws (Cowboy) passed away peacefully with his family at his side at the age of 90. Tom was predeceased by sisters Lynn and Ruth, brothers George and Eddy, and son Shane. He is survived by sisters Peggy, Debbie, Dee and Donna, brothers Dick and Don. Survived also by his children Tom, Daryl, Cosette, Sandy, Heidi and Jody. Cherished grandchildren Westyn, Justin, Tharon, Breanna, Alex, Riley and Kegan, and rst great granddaughter Aria. Tom left his imprint on many places and people. Born near Prince George, BC in Salmon Valley, the oldest sibling to his rst, and later blended family. His family would soon reside at Island Cache in Prince George, before moving to the Kamloops area. One of his rst jobs was working on the tugboats in Vancouver with his brother George, but found city slicker life not for him. He spent many years on some of the largest working cattle ranches in BC including Cherry Creek, Guichon, Stump Lake, Douglas Lake and Quilchena. ‘Tommie’ as he was known on the ranches, had countless adventures with his cowboy family in the cow camps, never missing a rodeo to participate in bronc riding and calf roping. The Cariboo region called him back in the 60’s, as a hunting guide near Bowron Lake with the Cushman family. Summers spent driving the stagecoach in Barkerville with his eldest son at his side. Tom would blend his small family with another and gain more kids to love- and love he did! Eventually relocating to Louis Creek with his family, he resumed logging and horse logging. Though never far from a saddle; teaching his kids how to ride, team-roping with buddies, and judging rodeos. After retirement, Tom returned to Bowron Lake as a hunting/ pack trip guide with the next generation of Cushman’s. Summers in Barkerville, spent driving the mail wagon (often lled with the giggles of kids as they hitched a ride with their favorite cowboy). He would return to the North Thompson to live out his days with family and his faithful border collies. An avid mountain man, he would take his family on overnight backpacking trips into the high country, teaching respect for all things wild and beautiful and how to tread lightly in nature. Pastimes were foraging pine mushrooms, hiking, or simply entertaining with his fun-loving antics. Tom was a self-taught artist, carver and leatherworker; many proudly display his canvasses, carvings and his well-travelled homemade saddle. Kids and horses gravitated to Tom, unable to resist his kind and patient demeanor. He loved wholeheartedly, reciprocated by all he crossed paths with. The world will miss his gentle touch and radiant smile. The family would like to thank Kamloops Seniors Village for their compassionate care extended to Tom. A gathering for Tom will be announced at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com Tel: 250-377-8225
Thanks for wearing a mask, for everyone!
The Merritt Cold Weather and Temporary Covid expansion shelter is a supportive and inclusive shelter meeting people where they are at. Our team offers a 24-hour service providing accommodations, meals and support services for the homeless and those at risk. Our ideal candidate will be reliable, flexible, ethical, non judgemental, empathetic and culturally sensitive with the education and experience to meet our clients where they are at in order to identify and meet their goals. The case manager will report directly to the Board of directors. The case manager will be responsible for • Initial assessment of all shelter residents • Development and implementation of service plans for all shelter residents. • Supervision of support staff involved in case plan implementation • Debriefing of staff following any critical incidents • Ensuring society policy is adhered to and enforced fairly during all staff interactions with clients • Reviewing all incident reports, Investigation of incidents and instigating dispute resolution where appropriate • Reports as required by Board and funders Required qualifications • BSW or post secondary degree in related field plus • 2-5 years experience serving clients with mental health and substance use or MH/ substance use training • Understanding of the causes and effects of poverty • Excellent communication skills • Conflict resolution training /experience • Trauma informed practice training / experience • Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team • VAT training, understanding of Housing First principles and practices and Team leadership experience are assets Full time position with flexibility required. Compensation negotiable and dependent on education and experience We invite qualified applicants to forward a cover letter and resume to nvsssboard@outlook.com Initial selection of applicants will begin on February 5th 2021 at 9.00 am but position will remain open until suitable applicant is found.
Call to advertise at: 250-378-4241 TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS
18 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 Employment
Employment
Bamboo Panda Restaurant (previous Tropico Spice Restaurant) IS LOOKING FOR
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
ACCOUNTING CLERK Scw’exmx Tribal Council is inviting applications for the Position of Accounting clerk. Position Summary: Reporting to the Finance Manager, the Accounting clerk performs a variety of Finance-related duties. As a member of the Finance team, the individual is responsible for general ď€ nancial duties, and functions to support the tribal council as required. Performing a variety of ď€ nance-related duties, including but not limited to: Bi-weekly full cycle Payroll, Accounts Payable and Xyntax data entry. Essential Skills: • Completion of Grade 12 supplemented by a certiď€ cate or diploma in accounting, with knowledge of fund accounting. • Two years proven experience in accounting/ bookkeeping • Payroll certiď€ cation or minimum 2 years proven Payroll experience • Strong computer literacy skills including Microsoft Ofď€ ce programs • Pervious experience using Xyntax considered an asset • Excellent organizational and time management skills • Able to prioritize work and meet deadlines based on changing needs of a fast-paced organization. • Familiarity of Nlaka’pamux and Syilx culture will be an asset • Criminal Record Check will be required Position Term: Part time Deadline for Applications: February 12, 2020 at 4 pm Submit Resumes to: Noreen Cross, Finance Manager Scw’exmx Tribal Council PO Box 188 Merritt BC V1K 1B8 • Fax (250) 378-4235 Email: ncross@scwexmxtribal.org
THERE’S MORE ONLINE KamloopsThisWeek.com merrittherald.com
Employment
Be a part of your community paper & comment online.
COOK
Salary: $34,000.00 $38,000.00/Annually Full Time, Permanent Start Date: ASAP Job Description: preparation of all dishes for lunch and dinner for a busy restaurant, must have min. 2 years experience in any food, professional cook certiď€ cate an asset. How to Apply Drop off resume in person to 1953 Nicola Avenue, Merritt Ask for Felix Huang or Email: tropicofh@ gmail.com
Attention
Inventors! Ideas wanted! Call Davison today! 1.800.218.2909 or visit us at
inventing.davison.com/BC
Free inventor’s guide!
VICTIM SERVICES CASE WORKER (FULL TIME 35 HRS/WEEK)
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 Local steady work
LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS CERTIFIED FORKLIFT OPERATORS CARPENTERS Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161
Nicola Valley Women In Action has an opening for a full time Victim Service Caseworker with Merritt RCMP Victim Services. The successful candidate should have post-secondary education in social work, criminal justice or a related ď€ eld OR a minimum of one (1) years’ experience working with victims of crime or trauma; an extensive knowledge of victim issues, social services and community resources; as well as a sound understanding of the criminal justice system. Must achieve and maintain RCMP Reliability Security Clearance; possess a valid BC driver’s license and have access to their own vehicle for business use. This is a regular, full-time position (35 hours/ week) with a wage between $24.00 - $27.00 per hour, as well as beneď€ ts. Please submit your resume and cover letter to nvwomeninaction@gmail.com Applications will be accepted until 3pm February 5th, 2021. We thank all interested applicants, but only short listed candidates will be contacted.
SUDOKU
Employment
FULL & PART TIME WAITRESSES WANTED No phone calls please Please drop off resume to: 2052 Quilchena, Avenue, Merritt, B.C.
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
Please thoroughly wash your hands to keep everyone healthy.
Employment
www.merrittherald.com
ACROSS
1. Gather a harvest 5. Federal Republic of Germany 8. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! 11. “The Little Mermaid� 13. The common gibbon 14. Volcanic island in Fiji 15. Mother of Perseus 16. Egg cells 17. Teams’best pitchers 18. Credit associations 20.Advance 21. Hair styling products 22. Benign tumors
25.Arriving early 30. Called it a career 31. __ Paulo, city 32.Avoid with trickery 33. Easter egg 38. Veterans battleground 41. Lack of success 43. Thing that causes disgust 45. Deep, continuing sound 47.Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea 49.You might put it in a fire 50. Partner to “oohed�
55.Actor Idris 56. Slippery 57. Plant of the bean family 59. One point north of northeast 60. Patti Hearst’s captors 61. Places to hang clothes 62. Midwife 63. Of she 64. S. Korean statesman
24. Nearsightedness 25. Indicates before 26. Increase motor speed 27. When you hope to get there 28. Indicates position 29. Where rockers perform 34. Substitute 35. __ juris: of one’s own right 36. Earliest form of modern human in Europe: __-magnon 37. Adult female bird 39. Do away with 40. Lens 41. Flattened appendage 42. Post or pillar in Greek temple
44. A medieval citizen of Hungary 45. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation 46. Abba __, Israeli politician 47. Sew 48. Evergreen trees and shrubs having oily one-seeded fruits 51. Swiss river 52. Grayish-white 53. A way to illustrate 54. College basketball superpower 58. Midway between south and southeast
DOWN 1. Cool! 2. Amounts of time 3. Aboriginal people of Japan 4. Popular veggies 5. Wedding accessory 6. Deep, narrow gorges 7. Dry cereal 8. Competitions that require speed 9. Cain and __ 10. Snake sound 12. Type of amino acid (abbr.) 14. Pattern of notes in Indian music 19. Satisfy
THURSDAY, January 28, 2021 • 19
Y o u r Local Business Directory ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE MECHANIC
LICENSED CANNABIS
HERE FOR YOU!
FRANK’S MECHANICAL SERVICE
Quilchena Cannabis Co.
OLD OR NEW WE HAVE WARRANTY APPROVED MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYONE
Quilchena Canna Company @DanAlbas
DanAlbas4COSN
Toll Free: 1-800-665-8711 www.danalbas.com
MU
• Tune Ups • Brakes • Exhaust • Suspension • Lube/Oil •Radiator Service • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning Service
DENTIST
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
19+
Call 250-378-5 420 Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC
250-378-1322
2026 Mamette Avenue
S T BE
NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME
GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call
250-378-4888 to book your appointment. 2731 Forksdale Avenue, V1K 1R9
www.dentistryatmerritt.ca
R. Dutt-DMD Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr.
HOURS
Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES CLEANING SERVICES
OVAL ATE ASBESTOS REM CERTIFIED IN MODER
TREE SERVICE
THROUGH A COMPLETE
FINANCIAL PLAN
JIM POTTER
MERRITT TREE SERVICE
Cashflow and Insurance Planning Portfolio Management Tax and Estate Planning
• Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment
Contact Kyle for your plan today!
ING CARPET CLEATN OU CLEANING – UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GR FLOOD & JANITORIAL SERVICraES tion.com
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
➤Schedule your FREE Estimate
CALL JIM at 250-378-4212
gandresto
www.tbmcleanin
Solutions for your tree problems!
09 TF: 1-877-612-09
ADVERTISING
21, 2021 • 27 THURSDAY, January
GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED!
ory Y ou r Local Business Direct
y to A brighter da make a move
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE
OLD OR NEW WE HAVE FOR EVERYONE MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS BC. I have relocated to Merritt, Investmen•ts.Tune Ups and I am pleased to announce • Brakes • Exhaust of experience in Insurance visit me at• Suspension • Lube/Oil I bring with me 18 years to meeting you, please • Shocks & Struts I am really looking forward •Radiator Service Service • Air Conditioning 1988 Quilchena Avenue. 250-378-1322 to for Life. r day 2026 Mamette Avenue hte Let’s talk about Money ® * A brig CPCA
PRIME ADVERTISING LOCATION! Leslee Lucy CFP
e make a mov INVESTMENT/INSURANCE
This is a full colour business card size space on a 1, 3, 6 month or more contract.
Quilchena y Canna Compan
@DanAlbas
DanAlbas4COSN
-8711 Toll Free: 1-800-665 www.danalbas.com
under the sun
IF YOUR READING THIS, THEN YOU KNOW IT WORKS!
®
CPCA
sun by Sun Life Financial
Mutual funds distributed
Investment Services (Canada)
GENERAL ONTISTS AVAILABLE HOURS pm SPECIALIST ORTHOD -6 Tuesday: 9 am
Ave.,
to book your
2731 Forksdale
itt.ca www.dentistryatmerr, Dr. R. Dutt-DMD
ation For more inform contact Ken at:
4241 250-378-ublishing .com
CLARITY COMFORT, IDENCE AND CONF LETE A COMP THROUGH
REMOVAL
L PLAN
FINANCIA
250-378-9410
Insurance Planning Cashflow and ent Portfolio Managem Planning Tax and Estate
plan today! for your Contact Kyle
CARPET CLEANING UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING – FLOOD & JANITORIAL SERVICES
www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com
Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm
Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS
TEGIES INVESTMENT STRA
CLEANING SERVICES BOOK TODAY!
appointment.
250-378-4888 Avenue, V1K 1R9
Dr. J. Sarao-DMD,
CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS
kcouture@aberdeenp
DENTIST
Call
-4943 PHONE: 250-378Merritt, BC
2064 Coutlee
s! Advertising work in our Place your ad ctory! Business Dire
420
S WELCOME NEW PATIENTS & WALK-IN DENTISTS &
Inc.
ADVERTISING ALD MERRITT HER
BE
19+
Call 250-378-5 a Ave., Merritt BC Unit B-1937 Quilchen
g & He ati ola Pl um bin
the Services (Canada) Inc. Life’s brighter under group of companies. by Sun Life Financial Investment of the Sun Life Financial Mutual funds distributed of Canada is a member 2017. Sun Life Assurance Company Company of Canada, © Sun Life Assurance
Be sure to give me a call if you want to reserve your advertisement in this spot.
Ask for ken or TheresA• 250-378-4241
*
3499 Voght Street P.O. Box 639 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
Nic
ST
NG PLUMBING & HEATI ng
Plumbing, Heating, Furnace Service. Service Work & Custom Sheet Metal Repairs Atlas RV Parts &
Life’s brighter Leslee Lucy CFP Services (Canada) Inc. of companies. by Sun Life Financial Investment Tel: 250-574-4730 the Sun Life Financial group Mutual funds distributed of Canada is a member of leslee.lucy@sunlife.com Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2017. www.sunlife.ca/leslee.lucy © Sun Life Assurance Company
bis Co.
Quilchena Canna
Tel: 250-574-4730 leslee.lucy@sunlife.com cy www.sunlife.ca/leslee.lu Merritt, BC. I have relocated to Investments. 3499 Voght Street talk about Let’sand I am pleased to announce in Insurance at years of experience me Life for visit n in.. Money I bring with me 18 you, please P.O. Box 639 forward to meeting Fully Qualied Tradesme I am really looking Bonded Gas Fitters. Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 1988 Quilchena Avenue.for Life. Let’s talk about Money
LICENSED CANNABIS
HERE FOR YOU!
MECHANIC
ICAL SERVICE FRANK’S MECHAN WARRANTY APPROVED
MU
BOOK TODAY!
250-378-9410
COMFORT, CLARITY AND CONFIDENCE
e-mail:
Ext. 259 hell • Office: 250-372-2955 om/en/kyle_sc nvestorsgroup.c Cell Phone: 250-879-6306 http://advisor.i ca • Website: Kyle.schell@ig.
TF: 1-877-612-0909
TREE SERVICE JIM POTTER
E MERRITT TREE SERVIC faller • Fully insured, certified • WSBC covered assessmen t • Dangerous tree
FREE Estimate ➤Schedule your
at 250-378-4212
CALL JIM tree problems! Solutions for your
ADVERTISING
nding Are you expa t base? your clien
way an accessible Looking for to find you? for people ” page
Directory “Local Business Colour! Herald’s Always Full JOIN theEvery nt Thursday, 1 month committmeweek. *with minimum each 5330 readers Reach over -4241 or
250-378 .com Theresa at Contact r@merrittherald Email: publishe
20 • THURSDAY, January 28, 2021
24 0N% CING
FINA
UP TO
OAC
www.merrittherald.com
COVI D IN PL PROTOCO SAFE ACE FOR ALS S EXPE HOPPING RIEN CE
JANUARY
CLEARANCE Making room for 2021 models
DON’T MISS OUT
HOUR SALE OVER 3 DAYS THURS, JAN. 28th - SATURDAY, JAN. 30th
70%
OFF STOREWIDE
SHOP LOCAL, SUPPORT LOCAL, PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE! BUY IT TODAY TAKE IT HOME TODAY Closed Thursday, Dec. 31- to prepare for this huge event! STATUS CARDS ACCEPTED
2025 Coutlee Avenue, Merritt Phone: 250-378-2332
& Appliances Ltd.
HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 6 pm, Sat.: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Sundays: Closed