January 21 - 2021

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 •

themerrittherald •

HWY. WOES

The Thompson-Nicola District continues to debate the hot topic of truck traffic on Highway 5A.

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CRIME STOP

prevention network.

City Council has voted unanimously to join a national crime

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FREE

TOP TREAT

An impressive gingerbread house won top prize at an annual holiday contest.

/PAGE 10

New Year, New Life

A BLESSING: Jason Howe and Micheala Gush-Howe welcomed in a newborn in the opening days of the New Year for the second time in four years. STORY /PAGE 12

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THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 3

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HEATED HIGHWAYS

Gillis reacts to call for 5A truck restrictions The TNRD Chair had some choice words in reaction to a debate about truck traffic on Hwy. 5A.

Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports ----------------------- 22 Weather -------------------- 23 Classifieds ---------- 24-26

Online

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER Commercial truck traffic on Hwy. 5A was once again a hotly debated topic at the regular TNRD Board of Directors meeting held on Jan. 14.

At the last TNRD Board of Directors meeting, on Dec. 17, 2020, a letter of support was requested to restrict commercial traffic on Hwy. 5A. Former RadioNL host Bob Price made the request on behalf of Stump Lake Ranch owner Bruce Chernoff, with letters of support from several residents along the thoroughfare.

Area J (Copper Desert Country) Director Ronaye Elliott began by making a motion that the item be deferred once again until more information was available.

“I move that we defer our decision on the issue until we’ve had time to hear from commercial vehicle safety and enforcement and the Ministry of Transportation,” said Elliott.

TNRD Chair Ken Gillis was in agreement, saying that he believed not all relevant information had been presented and engaging in a lengthy rebuttal of Price’s presentation from the month before.

“I have a keen interest in this myself, I think because I have some information that I uncovered in the last three or

INSIDE THE HERALD

merrittherald.com

Truck traffic is shown on a stretch of Hwy. 5A near Merritt. File photo

four days,” said Gillis.

“I’m very, very concerned that we’ll jump aboard this particular bandwagon without having possession of all the facts. And I’m also very concerned that the information we’ve received at this point has either been based on emotion and not fact, like a number of the letters we’ve received, or it’s simply not reliable.”

Gillis noted that Price had presented the number of accidents involving heavy trucks, but not the number in which those trucks had been at fault.

Gillis claimed to have done some investigating of his own, alleging that Price had not spoken to any truckers or trucking companies.

“I phoned both weigh scales and nobody had heard from Mr. Price,” said Gillis, who also claimed to have spoken to the District CVSE Manager, Glenn Taylor.

“He disputed the 9% increase in accidents that Mr. Price said had occurred since 2013, but he did agree that

the numbers could show that kind of an increase or even a greater increase,” said Gillis.

“Because the number of accidents is very, very low on Hwy 5A, and if you had one more accident one year over another, that could skew the numbers more than a mere 9%.”

He went on to say, “Mr. Price said repeatedly that the numbers don’t lie, and I’m sorry but the numbers are capable of lying.”

Taylor, according to Gillis, also refuted the claim that Cardeau Hill is used as a staging area for trucks preparing to go to work on Monday, as Mr. Price claimed.

Although letters of support had been submitted with Price’s report, Gillis seemed dismissive of the weight those letters may carry.

“Mr. Price presented letters, 30% of them came from the Douglas Lake Cattle Company, and I think if anybody’s read the court proceedings, we know that the Douglas

Lake Cattle Company is not exactly famous for sharing public assets with the public.”

Gillis concluded by mentioning his own personal experience driving heavy commercial trucks, when he would frequently choose Hwy 5A or the Fraser Canyon over the Coquihalla, which he said was not a truck-friendly route.

“I accumulated about two million miles, not kilometres, miles, behind the wheel of a heavy truck while Mr. Price was behind a microphone.”

Merritt Mayor Linda Brown was also opposed to the idea of banning commercial truck traffic on Hwy. 5A as well, citing similar issues occurring on the other highway routes that surround Merritt.

“We have five highways surrounding our area, and we have all these same issues on all of our highways, it’s not just between Merritt and Kamloops on the old high-

ORDER NOMS

Nominations are now open for the Province’s highest honour, the Order of British Columbia, recognizing British Columbians who have demonstrated an outstanding achievement.

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LOCAL CASES The Herald continues to keep the public up to date on known local COVID-19 cases, including those that have arisen in the Upper Nicola Band and at Merritt Secondary School.

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NEW GALLERY

The Herald will have photos from the first gallery of the year by the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council, on until Jan. 31 and titled “Street Art!”

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4 • THURSDAY, July 30, 2020 4 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

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4 • THURSDAY, June 13, 2019

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City of Merritt

CITY

to meet with Mayor Brown every YOU’RE INVITED! Wednesday 10:00 to meetfrom with Mayor Brownam everyto 1:00 pm

COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE City Meetings have resumed residents are All Council City Council Meetings will nowin-person be held and online with live Regular Council Meeting - June 11, 2019 strongly links encouraged toat watch online via www.merritt.ca streaming available www.merritt.ca and on the City

of Merritt social media channels.

Public input questions/ Regular Council Meeting - June26 25,- 7:00 2019 Regular Council Meeting - January PM information can be submitted prior to the Council Forksdale Avenue Public Hearing 6:00 PM Regular Council Meeting - July 9, 2019 meetings to Road communications@merritt.ca Lindley Creek Hearing - 5:00 PM Regular Council Public Meeting - July 23, 2019 Regular Council Meeting August94- -7:00 7 pm Regular Council Meeting - Febuary PM Committee of the Whole Meeting Official Community Regular Council Meeting - August 18 - 7 pm Plan FebruaryEMPLOYMENT 16 - Draft Policy Development 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM 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 ahead of time is required by calling Booking an appointment

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

A Notice for a Public Hearing Scheduled for PLEASE NOTE A NOTICE OF PUBLIC January 26, 2020 at 5:00 PM is on Page 8 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY HEARING SCHEDULED FOR Position: The A CityNotice of Merrittfor is inviting applications for the position of PUBLIC WORKS SEASONAL a Public Hearing Scheduled AUGUST 4, 2020 AT 7:00 PM IS ONfor PAGE 5 LABOURER. January 26, 2020, at 6:00 PM is on Page 9

For complete details, visit City of Merritt website at www.merritt.ca

Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing 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. 4th, Friday,2020 July 12,in2019 August theby: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, 21852284, Voght Street, Zoning Bylaw 2020.Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca

Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing education and qualifications, and proof of required education and licenses will be accepted prior to 4:00 p.m. Monday, July 08, 2019 by:

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

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.

Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca

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

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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

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THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 5

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

More info needed before City seeks grant to decision on truck traffic CITY BUSINESS

repair KVR bridge

From Page 3 way,” said Brown.

“That highway has been used by City of Merritt residents with trucks forever, even before it was paved.

Our residents still continue to use that road, some of them are really bad drivers and some of them aren’t.”

She noted that the City of Merritt has been lobby-

ing ICBC and MOTI for better driver training and certification to improve road safety, as well as a potential lowering of speed limits or widening of the roads in critical areas.

Mayor Brown also wants to see heavier fines for truck drivers found circumventing or breaking safety rules.

“It needs to be a whole

lot bigger, hit these truckers in the pocketbook when they override the rules, but please don’t just ban them… let’s look at some of the issues but let’s look at all of the issues, and the solution in my mind needs to be something other than banning of the trucks.”

A vote on the motion to defer was carried.

Erosion can be seen in the concrete on the west side of the KVR pedestrian bridge. Jake Courtepatte/Herald

Major work is needed on the KVR pedestrian bridge before the next freshet season hits Merritt.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM The City of Merritt has applied for funds to make perma-

nent repairs to the KVR pedestrian bridge.

Council voted unanimously at the Jan. 12 meeting to apply for the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream Adaptation, Resilience & Disaster Mitigation Program, in order to help prevent future complica-

tions with the eroding infrastructure.

The bridge is located at the west end of Quilchena Avenue, just before where the Nicola River and Coldwater River meet.

It was inspected thoroughly by Watson Engineering Ltd. in April of 2020, who determined that erosion of the bridge’s supporting concrete footing had done major damage

to its structural integrity. This report called for temporary emergency repairs due to freshet season, though by the end of July 2020, restrictions in the budget did not allow for the work to be completed.

“The engineer has expressed comfort with the bridge remaining open to pedestrian and bicycle traffic during low water, but has recommended

See ‘BRIDGE’ Page 10

REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPY SERVICES IN MERRITT! 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 21, 2021

VIEWPOINT

www.merrittherald.com

LETTERS

to the editor

Pro-developer or pro-constituent?

Editor, Much community discussion of late has centred on housing developments, Forksdale Avenue and soon, Spring Bank as arguably the most contentious examples. Mayor Brown and Council have been grappling with addressing the need for rental housing amid accusations of being pro-developer. An unenviable position to be in and I commend them for their efforts. One must remember however, that politicians are elected not to rule, but to serve.

Out of town developers do not elect city councils. The current groundswell of resistance and anger by adversely affected residents, it should be noted, is unequivocally not over the construction of such needed housing, but rather the proposed absurd locations of such large scale developments. Spring Bank Avenue, for example, is a profoundly quiet, semi-isolated neighbourhood populated mainly by seniors who have built their down-sized retirement homes or live in one of the quaint town houses. Needless to say, a forty unit, multi-level social housing complex with plans to double is obviously a poor fit. (Residents have, to my knowledge, unanimously signed a petition against the proposal.)

The Official Community Plan was developed with much effort, expense and hype as a blueprint for a thoughtful, measured and collaborative approach to city growth. Two key elements of the plan state that, A) the project must complement and respect the character and scale of existing residential development in the area and B) the project must not negatively affect the existing See ‘POSSIBLE’ Page 7 quality of

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

MERRITT HERALD

STUDENTS AND TEACHERS: SEND US YOUR ART FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED EACH WEEK! (HAILEY WOODS, GRADE 4, MERRITT CENTRAL.) SUBMISSIONS ARE PRINTED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS.

LETTERS to the editor Join food bank in walk for hungry and homeless Dear Walkers, “The Coldest Night of the Year is a covid-safe, family-friendly walk to raise money for charities serving people experiencing homelessness, hurt, and hunger. Walk virtually or in-person on February 20, 2021” - CNOY.org Please join the Nicola Valley Food Bank in raising awareness, while raising funds to help the vulnerable in our community.

Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

The Nicola Valley has proven to be a community that is caring and giving and for that, the food bank is profoundly grateful.

We are one of two of the smallest communities in BC that are participating in this national walk.

You can help us by joining a team or get a team of your own together. We are looking for Captains, participants, donors and volunteers.

If you would like to take part, please

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

log into CNOY.org/nicolavalley.

Please keep in mind due to Covid-19, a virtual walk aspect has been implanted which means, you can walk on your own or with your family in your bubble on a date that is convenient for you.

If you would like more information, please reach out to a captain at cnoynvfb21@outlook.com.

Derlanda Hewton

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.

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LETTERS

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 7

OPINION

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

to the editor

Possible developments may be ignoring Merritt’s OCP From Page 6 life within the neighbourhood. Without stating the obvious, those two clauses alone should provide the required impetus for council to, on behalf of their constituents, direct city staffers

to work diligently with proponents to secure more sensible and practical locations.

Should council act in stark contravention of their (our) vaunted OCP and approve the zoning applications in question, then it’s probably not worth the paper it’s written on. Should

council disrespect and defy the near unanimous wishes of entire neighbourhoods, then one can only assume motivations outside the scope of their mandate.

From the Herald archives: Jan., 2010

ASPEN PLANERS PROVIDES FOR OLYMPICS

Steve Rose

A Merritt wood producer will be supplying raw materials for the manufacture of podiums at the Olympic Games.

Aspen Planers has been selected to provide spruce.

A different wood was selected from have on you,” queried Tegart. each Timber Supply “I’m sure you are well aware of Area (TSA) in the the bill being passed, and we ask the province. questions about the unintended conVANOC has chosequences. We’ve had a lot of organisen to use the podizations that will be affected with the uncertainty of what a two-month delay ums to help showcase the industry. in the budget presentation means.”

“It’s a way of getTegart also encouraged anyone on ting our little town the TNRD board to reach out to her out to the world,” if they had any questions or concerns said Aspen Planers regarding education, which she would Woodlands Manager address in her role as Opposition Jerry Canuel.

Critic for Education.

“If there are issues within your communities or in your region that you want questions asked at estimate, please feel free to get in touch with me, because that is our opportunity to get answers from the Minister,” explained Tegart.

“So, if you need new schools or are The Merritt Herald concerned about anything that’s hap- welcomes your letters, pening within the education field, our on any subject, one opportunity to get real answers is addressed to the editor.

Letters must be signed during estimate and I would encourage you to be in touch so that we can and include the writer’s name and address. make sure that those questions are Letters may be edited asked.” for length, taste and Tegart concluded her update by clarity. Please keep thanking the TNRD board for the letters to 300 words work they had done during COVID, or less. Email and her appreciation for the working letters to: relationship which all levels of govern- newsroom@ ment need to have, referring particu- merrittherald. larly to democratic strife Canadians com. are witnessing south of the border.

A year in review with MLA Jackie Tegart Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart addressed the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) Board of Directors at the first TNRD board meeting of 2021, which took place on Jan. 15. Tegart reflected on the past year, which she acknowledged has been a rollercoaster for many, not excluding those in office.

“What a difference a year makes,” Tegart began.

“I thought about going into the house last year in February, where our biggest challenge was the protestors at the front of the building, and the fact that we couldn’t get in for the Throne Speech. Then coming home for our March break, and we never went back until the summer. We did a short summer session and then in October we had a snap election and had a short session in December.”

The lack of time spent in the Legislature translated to some frustrating times for Tegart, particularly when it comes to providing assistance to small businesses and communities.

“We have issues around supports for businesses, and we look at the hospitality industry, lots of requests for a very comprehensive recovery plan coming out of COVID. I think many of us who have small communities

are recognizing our mom-and-pop operations are in crisis, and how do we make sure that the programs provided by both federal and provincial government are actually getting to the people who need them? I think that those voices in tandem, our voice and yours at the provincial level are incredibly important.”

Tegart touched on a few projects that are in the works for her riding, mainly regarding tourism and infrastructure.

“We’ve got some exciting things happening in Fraser-Nicola, over the last year,” said Tegart.

“Certainly, we will continue our work on the ‘Wake up the Fraser Canyon’ project, in partnership with the Village of Lytton and all the other stakeholders down the corridor, and we are reconnecting with the new ministers and making sure that they’re well aware of the project. And we are in the final throes of a tourism masterplan for the corridor section between Yale and Lytton, and we are excited about the project. Making sure that we have shovel ready projects for money that is going to become available, I believe this spring, as part of the recovery. Of course, the Ashcroft terminal is quite an exciting project, and when we look at the region that will bring significant employment opportunities and some challenges around how we house people and provide services for

them.”

Tegart opened up about how difficult it has been for her to serve in the MLA role while maintaining social distance and staying home rather than being out visiting communities and businesses and engaging with people face to face.

“It’s tough in the MLA role to not be on the road and not be in communities and not meeting with groups,” Tegart said.

“We miss that. That and the energy that you get in order to do this job sometimes when you’re pretty tired. I really encourage you all to be in touch and I’ll reach out when needed because it’s our job to keep that enthusiasm and that hope out there for our citizens. It’s been a long year and we’ve had incredible tragedies as we look at the death toll during COVID, and we’ve got some challenges around what the data is telling us and what kind of services we’re providing, and I think we all need to be open to look in a critical way about what we’re doing in community and in services provided and how we can improve that. We’ve learned a lot during COVID.” Tegart also touched on the fact that the provincial budget could be delayed until the end of April.

“I’d be very interested to hear from the TNRD, as you take a look at the impact of that bill delaying the budget for two months, what impact that will

LETTERS POLICY

John Isaac

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THURSDAY Janurya 21, 2021 • 8

www.merrittherald.com

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021 at 5:00PM Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 with respect to the below proposed Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendments. Due to COVID-19, the hearing will be livestreamed on the City of Merritt website (www.merritt.ca). Written or electronic submissions can be made by prior to January 25 at 12:00 pm.

SUBJECT PROPERTY:

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road)

SHOWN ON PLAN B1245 TOWNSHIP 91 KAMLOOPS DIVISION YALE DISTRICT EXCEPT COAL AND EGRESS AND REGRESS FOR WORKING GETTING AND CARRYING AWAY COAL AND ALSO EXCEPT Plan 12534 Zoning Bylaw: That the Official Zoning Map, being Schedule “A” of the City of Merritt Zoning Bylaw No. 2284, 2020, is amended by changing the zoning designation of the parcel legally described as Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road) 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)”.

A copy of the proposed Bylaw amendments may be viewed Monday to Friday during the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm from January 4 to January 26, 2021 at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, or online at any time at www.merritt.ca Anyone who wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given the opportunity by written or electronic submissions on all matters contained in the proposed Bylaw amendments. Submissions must be received NO LATER THAN 12:00PM MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2021, to ensure their availability to Council at the Public Hearing.

Written submission can be provided by any of the following methods: Email: planning@merritt.ca In Person: City Hall, 2185 Voght Street 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Mail: PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 Subject Line: For Inclusion in Public Hearing Agenda Attn: Don McArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager Electronic submission can be provided by any of the following methods:

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS: Official Community Plan: The Official Community Plan Land Use Designation Map for Collettville is amended to change the parcel legally described as Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road) from “Future Development” and “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces” to “Residential” and “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces”, and The Official Community Plan Land Use Designation Maps for Collettville and South Merritt and the Official Community Plan Sector Map are amended to remove the parcels legally described as Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road), Lot A Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP92785, PID: 028-832-442 (1227 Midday Valley Road), Lot 1 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP76661, PID: 026-092-913 (Willow Avenue), Parcel A Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592 BEING A CONSOLIDATION OF LOTS 1 2 & 3, PID: 028-128-672 (1295 Midday Valley Road), Lot 4 Plan KAP83592 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25, PID: 027-029-646 (1287 Midday Valley Road), Lot 5 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-654 (1283 Midday Valley Road), Lot 6 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-662 (1279 Midday Valley Road), Lot 7 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-671 (1275 Midday Valley Road), Lot 8 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-689 (1271 Midday Valley Road), Lot 9 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-697 (1267 Midday Valley Road), Lot 10 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-701 (1263 Midday Valley Road), Lot 11 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-719 (1259 Midday Valley Road), Lot 12 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-727 (1255 Midday Valley Road), Parcel B (Plan B1194) OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 16 TOWNSHIP 91 KAMLOOPS DIVISION YALE DISTRICT EXCEPT COAL, and PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 SECTION 16

Save the video or audio recording to a USB drive and drop it off at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, from January 4 to 25, 2021 between the hours of 10:00 am – 12:00 pm; or Upload a video to your YouTube channel or other public video sharing site and email the link for that submission to planning@merritt.ca; or Send a direct message in written, video, or audio form to the City of Merritt Facebook account (www.facebook.com/CityofMerritt) that clearly states it is for inclusion at the Public Hearing on January 26th 2021; or Telephone City Hall at 250-378-4224 and leave a voicemail that clearly states it is a submission for inclusion at the Public Hearing on January 26th, 2021.

Please note that electronic submissions may result in personal data being stored outside of Canada, and not being subject to Canadian laws on data protection, privacy, and access. If you do not wish to risk this, please make a written submission.

All electronic submissions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an acknowledgement of a submission, please contact City Hall to arrange for re-submission, or an alternative method.

All submissions must include your name and street address. No letter, video, report, or representation from the public will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All 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 dmcarthur@merritt.ca This Notice is published in accordance with Section 466 of the Local Government Act. Note: this is the second of two consecutive Public Notices.

9 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

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PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021 at 6:00PM Public Notice

Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on PUBLIC January HEARING26, on2021 TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, below 2021 atproposed 6:00PM Tuesday, with respect to the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendments.

Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on Tuesday, Due to COVID-19, the hearing will be livestreamed on the January 26, 2021 with respect to the below proposed Official Community Cityand of Merritt website (www.merritt.ca).

Written electronic Plan Zoning Bylaw amendments.

Due to COVID-19, theor hearing will be submissionson can made by prior to January 25 at 12:00 pm. livestreamed thebe City of Merritt website (www.merritt.ca).

Written or electronic submissions can be made by prior to January 25 at 12:00 pm.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

SUBJECT PROPERTY:

SUBJECT PROPERTY: Lot A District Lot 121 And of Section 22 Township 91 Kamloops

Division Yale District Plan KAP79511, PID: 026-478-129 (2587

Lot A District Lot 121 And of Section 22 Township 91 Kamloops Division Forksdale Yale District Avenue) Plan KAP79511, PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue)

protection, privacy, and access. If you do not wish to risk this, please make a written Anyone who submission. wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given

the opportunity by written or electronic submissions on all matters All electronic submissions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an contained in the proposed Bylaw amendments. Submissions acknowledgement of a submission, please contact City Hall to arrange for must be received LATER THANmethod.

12:00PM MONDAY, JANUARY re-submission,NO or an alternative 25, 2021, to ensure their availability to Council at the Public All submissions must include your name and street address. No letter, Hearing.

video, report, or representation from the public will be received by Council the conclusion of the Public Hearing. are public Writtenafter submission can be provided by anyAllofsubmissions the following information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of methods: Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning & Development Services Manager at 250-378-8615 or Email: dmcarthur@merritt.ca planning@merritt.ca

In Person: City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Monday to Friday from This- Notice is published in accordance with Section 466 of the Local 10:00 am 12:00 pm Government Act. Note: this is the first of two consecutive Public Notices.

Mail: PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 Subject Line: For Inclusion in Public Hearing Agenda Attn: Don McArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager Electronic submission can be provided by any of the following methods: Save the video or audio recording to a USB drive and drop it off at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, from January 14 to 25, 2021 between the hours of 10:00 am – 12:00 pm; or Upload a video to your YouTube channel or other public video sharing site and email the link for that submission to planning@ merritt.ca; or Send a direct message in written, video, or audio form to the City of Merritt Facebook account (www.facebook.com/ CityofMerritt) that clearly states it is for inclusion at the Forksdale Avenue Public Hearing on January 26th 2021; or

PROPOSED PROPOSED AMENDMENTS: AMENDMENTS: Official Community Plan: Official Community The Official CommunityPlan: Plan Land Use Designation Map for North Nicola The OfficialtoCommunity Plan legally Land Use Designation forLot North is amended change the parcel described as Lot AMap District 121 Section Township 91to Kamloops Yale District KAP79511, Nicola 22 is amended changeDivision the parcel legallyPlan described as PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue) from “Future Development” to Lot A District Lot 121 Section 22 Township 91 Kamloops Division “Residential” and “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces”.

Yale District Plan KAP79511, PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue) from “Future Development” to “Residential” and Zoning Bylaw: “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces”.

That the Official Zoning Map, being Schedule “A” of the City of Merritt

Zoning Bylaw No. 2284, 2020, is amended by changing the zoning designation of the parcel Lot A District Lot 121 Section 22 Township 91 Zoning Bylaw: Kamloops Division District Plan KAP79511, PID: “A” 026-478-129 (2587 That the Official Yale Zoning Map, being Schedule of the City of Forksdale Avenue) from “Single Family Residential (R1)” to “Medium Merritt Zoning Bylaw No. 2284, 2020, is amended by changing Density Residential (R7)” and “Park & Cemetery (P1)”.

the zoning designation of the parcel Lot A District Lot 121 Section Township 91 Kamloops Yalemay District Plan KAP79511, A22copy of the proposed Bylaw Division amendments be viewed Monday to PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue) “Single Family Friday during the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm fromfrom January 14 to January 26, 2021 at City Hall,to2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, or online at and any time at Residential (R1)” “Medium Density Residential (R7)” “Park www.merritt.ca & Cemetery (P1)”.

Anyone who wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given the A copy ofbythe proposed Bylaw amendments may be viewed opportunity written or electronic submissions on all matters contained in Monday to Friday during the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm the proposed Bylaw amendments. Submissions must be receivedfrom NO LATER THAN MONDAY, 25, 2021, to ensure their January 14 to12:00PM January 26, 2021JANUARY at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, availability to Council at the Public Hearing.

Merritt BC, or online at any time at www.merritt.ca Written submission can be provided by any of the following methods:

Telephone City Hall at 250-378-8615 and leave a voicemail that clearly states it is a submission for inclusion at the Forksdale Avenue Public Hearing on January 26th, 2021.

Please note that electronic submissions may result in personal data being stored outside of Canada, and not being subject to Canadian laws on data protection, privacy, and access. If you do not wish to risk this, please make a written submission.

All electronic submissions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an acknowledgement of a submission, please contact City Hall to arrange for re-submission, or an alternative method.

All submissions must include your name and street address.

No letter, video, report, or representation from the public will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All 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 250-378-8615 or dmcarthur@merritt.ca This Notice is published in accordance with Section 466 of the Local Government Act. Note: this is the second of two consecutive Public Notices.

10 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Bridge project is ‘shovel-ready’ From Page 5 closure if water levels rise to the point that water comes in contact with the footing concrete,” wrote Public Works Manager Charlie Henderson to council and staff.

The City of Merritt has made it a priority to complete permanent repairs of the bridge in the 2021 fiscal year.

Henderson said that the bridge repair is a ‘shovel-

ready’ project, and that if successful in applying for the program, 100% of the eligible costs would be covered. The total cost is estimated to be $80,496.00.

Around $28,000 of such funds is expected to be for labour, $15,000 for material, and $11,000 for equipment.

An environmental consulting agency would also be hired to create an environment protection plan and oversee the

project.

Major steps in the project would include: - Install water diversions around abutments - Excavate around/under abutments - Demolish and repair concrete - Install reinforcing dowels and reinforcing steel - Install formwork and place concrete - Place fill and compact around footing - Install riprap

Merritt City Council has voted unanimously to join the Canadian Municipal Network on Crime Prevention.

The CMNCP is active across Canada as a network of communities who seek to share the best practices and build capacity to reduce and prevent crime, as well as fostering community safety and well-being.

In Dec. 2020,

the Merritt Community Policing Office requested that the City make a request to join the CMNCP. The fee, which amounts to approximately $650 for communities with populations under 500,000, will be paid for by the City.

This network includes major centres such as Vancouver and Montreal, but also includes smaller communities such as Williams Lake, in total representing an estimated 40%

of the Canadian population.

Because the City of Merritt would be the official member of CMNCP, a resolution from council is required to join.

The decision came at the regular council meeting of Jan. 12, where council voted to write a letter of recommendation for Merritt to join the CMNCP and pay the membership fee, the funds for which would be drawn from the unused 2020 conferences budget.

“This membership will allow us

Elaborate gingerbread house takes the prize

or salvaged rock.

The repaired bridge footings will not affect the flow of water downstream, though Henderson warns that if the current footing continues to erode, there is a risk that they will completely fail and water flow could be heavily disrupted.

The lifespan of this particular repair is expected to be around 50 years.

Council votes to join crime prevention network Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

FRIENDS & Neighbours

to share ideas and best practices with many communities in Canada,” said Marlene Jones, Community Policing Officer Coordinator.

“In the past our crime prevention partnerships were primarily with BC organizations, but we believe that there are many great programs throughout the country. Our team and subsequently our community can benefit from these shared ideas, training, and contributing to the conversations.”

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Gingerbread house? More like a gingerbread estate.

Roger and Benita Shackelly took home the top prize in December’s holiday gingerbread contest, put on by the Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society.

Members of the local Coldwater, Shackan, and Nooaitch communities took part in the contest that ran through the first half of December.

Roger Shackelly said it took four days to complete the project.

Materials used to build the busy display were large pretzels, shredded wheat, jellybeans, shredded coconut, and other various types of candies.

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THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 11

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Council chooses to reject annual wage increase Merritt councillors were in full support of not taking their annual wage increase, due to the economic challenges currently being faced.

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER At the regular council meeting of Jan. 12, Mayor Linda Brown brought forward a motion

that council reject their annual wage increase, which is tied to the increased cost of living according to the consumer price index, in light of the financial difficulties many citizens are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is something I’m looking at because we’ve had a number of decreasing tax revenues in the city, business is suffering, there’s decreasing income all around us, individuals are losing their jobs to COVID, and this is a way to show our support and to recognize those

that are having difficulty,” said Mayor Brown.

Mayor Brown did note that the motion would be non-binding, and that it would be up to each individual councillor to make arrangements with their payroll to have the increased remuneration rejected.

Several councillors chimed in in support of the idea, with Councillor Tony Luck believing it was a good way to set an example for solidarity and fiscal responsibility.

“Mayor, I fully support this,” said Luck.

“I think this

last year has been rather challenging for businesses and the people in the community, I think moving forward it’s probably going to be more challenging because these things, they don’t happen overnight… there’s going to be some challenges for this council as we look at our budget moving forward, and I think one of the big criticisms of a lot of politicians across the country has been that they’ve been taking their salaries and increases and things along that line, and it’s bothered me… and so I fully sup-

Economic development committee chosen Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER At the regular council meeting of May 26, 2020, council approved the Terms of Reference for the Economic Development Committee and staff was directed at that time to proceed with the recruitment of members.

The Economic Development Committee will advise council on

matters pertaining to economic development, downtown revitalization, investment, business attraction, and long-term economic sustainability. Members were chosen for their ability to perform these tasks, and their relevant experience.

At closed meetings on Nov. 10 and 24, nine voting members and two council members were proposed and were officially appointed at the meeting

of Jan. 12.

- Bev CurrieMcLean - Margaret Hohner - Mary Holgate - Illa Jackson - Mae Ketter - Linda Maley - Ron Sanders - Joanne Street - Carrie Ware - Councillor Kurt Christopherson - Councillor Tony Luck.

Mayor Linda Brown will also be an ex officio member and will attend meetings in that capacity.

port this motion that we suspend our cost of living increase for 2021.”

Councillor Adam Etchart was of a similar mindset.

“I think that if we’re expecting to reduce expenses, we have to look at ourselves first, and find ways to be cost effective and look at what we really

need and what we need in town, so I definitely support this.”

The motion was carried by a unanimous vote, with Mayor Brown joking that

perhaps the funds saved could be put towards the snow removal program which had been extensively debated earlier in the meeting.

FAMILY LITERACY WEEK January 24th to 30th

Visit literacymerritt.com for the calendar of events

12 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

BUNDLE OF JOY

Second nearly New Years baby for Merritt family For the second time in four years, Jason Howe and Micheala Gush-Howe welcomed in a new family member in the opening days of the year.

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Kamloops.

“It was scary,” said Micheala, with Jason noting that she lost two and a half litres of blood in a matter of minutes.

“The doctors at the hospital in Kamloops, they got on the ball really quick,” said Jason.

“3:30 in the morning she woke me up, we got dressed and went up to the hospital here. They said ‘OK, what’s your contractions?’

Then they said it would be a while before they could get ambulance transport… they asked if we had a vehicle, I said yeah, we’ve got a

www.merrittherald.com

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1 800 250-3030 • waramps.ca Jason Howe and Micheala Gush-Howe with newborn Hunter. Morgan Hampton/Herald

Jason Howe vehicle.” ambulance. and Micheala The couple “By the Gush-Howe weldecided to travel time we got to comed a nearly to Kamloops on Kamloops she had New Year’s baby their own rather See ‘NEW’ Page 17 on the afternoon than wait for the of Jan. 9, 2021.

The arrival of a new baby is remarkable Early French Immersion enough, but for View your feature best friend @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca the proud parents this is a second time occurrence, as their daughter Abby was To make an appointment featured in the to meet your new best friend French Immersion Kindergarten Registration: Herald as a New Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 When: Monday, February 8 to Friday, February 19, 2021 (250) 574-1316 Year’s baby back email: aarsrescue@gmail.com Where: Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca in 2017, after she was born at How does registration take place? the Nicola Valley Hospital, which at Registration for Kindergarten French Immersion will take place earlier than “Breaking the the time had not neighborhood school registration. This will allow for equitable access and Chain of Abuse” done regular baby better planning. Kindergarten Collettville Elementary is a school of choice with limited Immersion Registration: Donations can be to made to The Angel’s AnimalFrench Rescue deliveries in nearregistration and as a result, if needed, a lottery will take place to determine Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. registration. Please visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview ly twenty years.

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When: of Monday, the process.February 8 to Friday, February 19, 2021 Their son This feature brought to you by...

Where: Register online at www.sd58.bc.ca Hunter would For more information or if you have questions please contact Collettville have been born Elementary School at 250-378-2230 or email the Acting Principal, Ms. Becky ◆ ◆ at the Merritt Gifts Native ◆ Jewelry ◆ Gifts Jewelry NativeArt Art Puterbough at bputerbough@365.sd58.bc.ca How does registration take place? hospital as well, ◆ Glasses ◆ ◆ Contacts ◆ Glasses Contacts but Micheala Thank you and Welcome Jeanine JeanineGustafson Gustafson faced serious to Registra7on for Kindergarten French Immersion will take place earlier than Optician/Contact Lens Fitter/ABO/NCLE Optician/Contact Lens Fitter/ABO/NCLE complications School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen). neighborhood school registra7on. This will allow for equitable access and beBer visionquestoptical@gmail.com visionquestoptical@gmail.com and had to be Phone: 250-378-2022 Phone: 250-378-2022 planning. ColleBville Elementary a school ~ of Today choiceand withTomorrow limited registra7on and Vision Q Quest Optical & Gifts Q Quest Optical & Gifts Success for ALL isLearners rushed to Royal Vision 2001 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC Authentic Art Gallery 2001 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC Authentic NativeNative Art Gallery Inland Hospital in as a result, if needed, a loBery will take place to determine registra7on. Please

Adopt a Pet

Early French Immersion

Kindergarten Registration Information 2021

Kindergarten Registration Information 2021

visit our website www.sd58.bc.ca for a complete overview of the process.

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 13

www.merrittherald.com

Not every victory shows up on the score board.

Don’t go through life without GOALS.

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1 2 0 2 k e e W Y E K MINOR HOC PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Mike Mouland: I am pleased to be recognizing Minor Hockey Week and highlighting our association. Like most things, hockey looks quite different right now. Game sheets have been traded for contact tracing sheets and dressing room pep talks have been replaced by coaches reminding players to space out. Regardless of the new procedures and protocols, when we are on the ice with our players there is a sense of normalcy in our world. The smiles and sweat prove that the passion for the game runs deep and that hockey is so much more than just a game.

This year, more than ever we need to show our gratitude for the community and the volunteers who spend countless hours to make hockey possible. Our executive and division directors have worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone is able to participate in the safest manner. Our coaches and managers continue to be flexible and incredibly positive with the ongoing, changing protocols. Our sponsors continue to support us in trying times and both the City of Merritt and Shulus Community Arena have gone above and beyond to provide us with safe facilities. Finally, I would like to recognize the players and their families who continue to show up with energy and enthusiasm. I think we all long for a return of games, spectators and concession duty but until then we will be grateful for the opportunity to come together on the ice in a safe and healthy way.

Though pandemic regulations may have minor hockey looking different this season, the Herald is happy to know that young Merrittonians can still get on the ice.

However, due to these regulations, our annual minor hockey supplement features action shots of past years - look inside to see this year’s teams.

Proud to support Merritt Minor Hockey

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14 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

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U5 PRESCHOOL TIMBITS: Back Row (L to R): Vaughn Illingworth, Emmersyn Long, Grady Emmerick, Kinslee Gill Bottom Row (L to R): Ben Martens, Johawar Sekhon, Molly Brigden (Coach), Winston Woodman, Nahil Sekhon Missing: Nicole Woodman (Asst. Coach)

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U9 WHITE JR. CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): Farrah Charters, Keegan Holmes, Ethan Joe, Kylynn Kerr Middle Row, (L to R): Mathew Martens, Briden Michel, Lucas Munro, Devnn Shackelly, Ryker Starrs Bottom Row (L to R): Nicole Woodman (Asst. Coach), Bendon Taylor, Jaxson Tesan, Reed Woodman, Bradley Holmes, Blaine Martens (Coach)

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U7 TIMBITS: Back Row (L to R): Rylie Beers, Lorenzo Cavalier, Sawyer Emmerick, Jaxon Fader Middle Row (L to R): Jack Jepsen, Ryker Lowey, Linden Mackay-Smith, Antonio Martins, Rhyan Paquette, Spencer Paquette Bottom Row (L to R): Rowen Parks, Morgan Pickering, Maahan Sekhon, Nicole Woodman (Coach), Rylee Shackelly O’Laney, Griffin Soderberg, Raya Woodman. Missing: Harper Andersen Coaches: Nicole Woodman, Matt Mackay-Smith and Dylan Beers.

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U9 WHITE JR. CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): Jaiden Abraham, Deegan Beers, Brice Caron Middle Row (L to R): Eberle Derose, Olivia Kim, Jesse Pierce (Coach), Charlee Pierce, Sienna Reimer Bottom Row (L to R): Cruz Robinson, Liam Shoenit, Bachan Sekhon, Joseph Sung, Nico Thoo, Ryder Yastremsky

OPEN DAILY WITH 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!

Helping fuel your body with the right nutrition.

Hard work and persistence pays off.

2037 Quilchena Avenue

250-378-1366

2190A Voght Street 250-378-3646

3623 DeWolf Way

250-315-0208

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 15

www.merrittherald.com

CONTAIN-IT

Keeping hockey smiles gorgeous, one tooth at a time .

STORAGE

DENTISTRY @ MERRITT

1750 Hill Street Phone: 250-315-3000

2731 Forksdale Ave., 250-378-4888

U11 RECREATION JR. CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): Fawne Bob, Ava Charters, Chloe Forgaard, Colten Forgaard Middle Row (L to R): Belle Garcia, Aleck Henry, Carter Hughes, Brian Kim, Casey-James, Mack Stirling Bottom Row (L to R): Will Parkes, Linden Russell, Dylaan Sekhon, Clif Garcia (Coach), Chance Shackelly, Cash Long, Michael Ledoux

Play hard, play safe.

We offer skate sharpening!

1701 VOGHT STREET

250-378-4215

U13 RECREATIONAL JR. CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): Josh Thuveson, Kayden Beers, Gunner Schulte, Mason Walker Middle Row (L to R): Katie Chenier, Halem Wallace-Bobroske, Daniel Hodson, Brady Nendick, Emmet Grismer Front Row (L to R): Chris Thuveson (Coach), Channun Sekhon, Henry Hodson, Ethan Taylor, Elizabeth Manning, Liam Walker, Chris Schulte (Coach) Missing: Remo Jacoe (On-ice helper) Crystal Wallace (Team Manager)

& Appliances Ltd.

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF Merritt Minor Hockey.

GO TEAMS GO! 2025 Coutlee Avenue, Merritt, BC

Phone: 250-378-2332

U11 DEVELOPMENT JR. CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): David Martens, Tayton Payne, Aiden VanRensburg, Max Bassett, Carter Starrs Middle Row (L to R): Braxtun Dickie, Blake Robinson, Alex Lambe, Hunter Pickering, Covin Pierce, Layne DeRose Bottom Row (L to R): Ronin Sahota , Mitchell Denton, Ken Pickering (Head Coach), JJ Holmes (Asst. Coach, Dave Lambe (Safety), Justin Farmer, Logan Holmes

BLACK’S PHARMACY Not every victory shows up on the scoreboard.

2037 Quilchena Avenue

250-378-2155

U13 RECREATIONAL JR. CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): Kolton Brigden (A), Chloe Garcia, Ryan Lambe (A), Layla Clayton-Charters, Boston Simpson (C) Middle Row (L to R): Season Blachford, Keelin Small, Phenix Forman, Brooke Gray, William Stewart (A), Noah Klapstein Front Row (L to R): Dave Lambe (Coach), Mike Simpson (Coach), Wyatt Streek (A), Benoit Abraham, Trevin Rooke, Clif Garcia (Coach), Molly Brigden (Coach) Missing: Toni Stewart (Manager)

Sometimes it’s not how GOOD you are, but how BAD you want it. inc.

CALL 250-315-5074

16 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021 Hockey players can walk on water

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Jackson’s Welding 250-378-4332 1750 Hill Street, Merritt

U13 REP JR. CENTENNIALS Back Row (L to R): Maddax Garcia, Cooper Hatfield, Blake Weimer, Travis King Middle Row (L to R): Ethan Pickering, Brad Denton (Asst. Coach), Mike Mouland (Head Coach), Tom Harrington (Asst.

Coach), Jake Voigt Bottom Row (L to R): Hunter Hewton, Duke Parkes, Will Hubbard, Andrew Denton, Gavin Mouland, Cooper Harrington Missing: Carter Hildebrandt

ENCOURAGE THE KIDS,

SUPPORT THE GAME!

www.merritt.ca 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC

Ph: 250-378-4224

U18 RECREATIONAL NVIT : Back Row (L to R): Ashley Cavaliere, Bianca Cavaliere, Blake Klassen Middle Row (L to R): Brysen Pinyon, Dawson Campbell, James Fountain (Coach), Hannah Ellingsen, Hayden Ellis, Bottom Row (L to R): Indiana Joe, Jamie Fountain, Korben Blachford, Semiah Oppenheim, Spencer Nagata, Wade Fountain Missing: Winnie Johnny, Missy McDonnell, Ella McKeown, Luke Narcisse, Kuran Natt, Mike McDonnell Safety Manager) Vicki Klassen (Manager)

Courtesy Corner

You only see obstacles when your take your eyes off the puck.

407 Highway 8, Lower Nicola • 250-378-9457

Proudly supporting minor hockey in our community

HOURS:

8am ‘til 9pm, 7 days a week Railyard Mall (1700 Garcia St.)

250-378-5564

U15 RECREATION JR CENTENNIALS: Back Row (L to R): Tristan Antonenko, Isaac Asselstine, Rae Bassett, Owen Bateson, Cayden Bergstrom Middle Row (L to R): Marcy Chenier, Lucas Dixon, Chris Thuveson (Asst. Coach), Mike Mouland (Asst. Coach), Richard Antonenko (Coach), Brooke Gustafson, Jacob King Bottom Row (L to R): Mackenzie Manning, Carson Mouland, Asia Munro, Luke Sowpal, Kelsey Starrs, Evan Sterling, Sophie Sterling, Ezekiel Thuveson Missing: Shane Charters-Jones, Darren Bergstrom (Asst. Coach)

Play hard, play safe.

1.888.378.9255

www.murraygmmerritt.com 2049 Nicola Ave. Merritt DL# 30482 378-9255

U18 REP TRACKERS: Back Row (L to R): Caleb Brackett, Jake Buxton, Cortez Charters, Zach Dixon Middle Row (L to R): Jayden Etchart, Eva Galbraith, Cameron Nicholls, Graycin Nicholls, Carter Shackelly Bottom Row (L to R): Chris Charters (Coach), Brodie Sterling, Robert Sterling, Austyn Streek, Nathan Van Rensburg, Dustin Shackelley (Asst. Coach) Missing: Mike Peat (Asst. Coach), Karson Peat, Joey Isaac, Mary Isaac, Darius Kirkpatrick)

Supporting Minor Hockey in our community!

PLAY SAFE AND HAVE FUN! 3939 Crawford Avenue • www.bostonpizza.com • 250-378-4222

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 17

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

MIND EXERCISE

Family Literacy Week going virtual A series of activities both online and offline are on the agenda for the 2021 iteration of the upcoming Family Literacy Week.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM

plugged into cyberspace, Literacy Merritt has found ways to connect and learn offline while maintaining social distancing guidelines.

Literacy Merritt Chair Rhonda Wong said that the health and saftety of the community is paramount.

“All activities have been planned in accordance with public health guidelines and to allow

‘‘

As with just about every activity in recent times, this year’s Family Literacy Week is going to look a little different.

That doesn’t mean, however, that there will be anything less to participate in.

Plenty has been planned for the 2021 Interior Savings Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week, which runs from Jan. 24 to Jan. 30.

“The pandemic has many of us spending more time online – whether for work, school or socialization – so we’re thrilled to continue our support of Unplug and Play in 2021”, said Kathy Conway, CEO of Interior Savings. “Albeit a little different than in the past with some resources and activities moving online, the message of finding a healthy balance between active family time and screen time is especially important this year. With over 20 community events, we encourage everyone to get inspired, and unplug.”

Though there are a number of activities planned that do require participants to be

‘All activities have been planned in accordance with public health guidelines.’

— Literacy Merritt Chair Rhonda Wong

for social distancing. For those events where you need to be plugged-in this year, we’ll focus on keeping you active through the event or will work to inspire you with ways to continue learning, playing and growing as a family well after the event concludes.”

New events this year will include a story-walk featuring books by local author Jeff Bloom hosted by the City of Merritt, and a Search for Police Stories hosted by the Community Policing

New Years miracle again From Page 12

five contractions,” said Jason.

“We got to the emerg. in Kamloops and from the car Office and the Merritt to the emerg.

Library, where particientrance she had pants can learn what it is six contractions.” like to be a police officer.

Although he Families will have the wasn’t actually opportunity to stay active due until Jan 12., with Active Stories prebaby Hunter sented by Merritt Sparks made his appear& Brownies, an online ance at 12:40 p.m.

Active Tots session preon Jan. 9, weighsented by PacificSport, ing in at a healthy and Move with Mark from PFN Coaching.

An art literacy class will be hosted by the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council at their new project space on Thursday after school.

The Magic Show Workshop is available week-long online, and the week will end with a virtual Dance Party Saturday evening produced by Kamloops DJ’s Kyle and Kellan.

Come Read with Me classes will be held online on both Tuesday and Wednesday of the week, offered to parents and caregivers of grade one students.

Participants will learn strategies to support their children’s reading at home, and receive a free book and literacy games.

Registration is required and forms will be sent home with students.

Literacy Merritt wants to see the community taking part in any of the list of activities: take a picture of yourself participating in any of the Family Literacy Week events and send it to literacymerritt@gmail.com

by Jan. 31 to enter for a chance to win a prize.

Visit www.literacymerritt.com for a full schedule of events and activities.

7lbs 4oz.

“He’s healthy, he’s awesome,” said the proud father.

“There’s absolutely nothing wrong with baby boy,” Micheala added.

“He’s so content, the only time he cries is when we change his bum and he gets cold, or when he’s really hungry and he wants it right away. All he does

is eat!”

Although they brought their daughter home from the hospital in the middle of a blizzard, Jason said this time around he tips his hat to the highway maintenance workers, as the roads were clear and passable despite the winter conditions.

The couple are now settling into life with a new-

born yet again, and have a large circle of support to make things easier.

“We want to give a big thanks to Janet Verbeeck, our infant development supporter, Colleen Fines, our MCFD social worker, Lee Florence from the Metis Association, and all our family and friends,” Jason said.

21014MM3

18••THURSDAY, THURSDAY,January January21, 21,2021 2021 10

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CENTURY 21 Moving Real Estate

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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.

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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.

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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.

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2770 PEREGRINE WAY

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2760 PEREGRINE WAY

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2861 MCLEAN PLACE

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2749 PEREGRINE WAY

$450,000 1809 MENZIES ST

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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

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Find out why people are moving to smaller communities in BC, like Merritt.

Give us a call.

movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c2

THURSDAY 11 THURSDAY January January 21, 21, 2021 2021 •• 19

www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com

Melonie Ivanic 778-803-6554

Don Gossoo, Managing Broker

Personal Real Estate Corporation

900 KANE VALLEY RD

1926 QUILCHENA AVE

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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.

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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.

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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.

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6427 MONCK PARK ROAD

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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.

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21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166

20 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

www.merrittherald.com

CYBER CRIME

BBB warns of Netflix scam The scam asks for personal information through a fishy website, including a method of payment.

Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The Better Business Bureau is warning British Columbians about a scam making the rounds offering one free year of Netflix.

So far, BBB has received more than 100 reports via Scam Tracker about a text message tricking consumers by offering the streaming service for free.

“You receive

a text message that says: “Due to the pandemic, Netflix is offering you a free year of service to help you stay at home.

Click the link to sign up.” The link takes consumers to a website where they are asked to fill out personal information and add a method of payment,” reads a release from BBB. However, the

website is not associated with Netflix, and those signing up are sharing their personal information with scammers, running the risk of payment fraud and identity theft. “[The scammers] said no other money would be taken out of my account again,” one victim reported. “Then, about a week later, they took $51.02, and I called and asked for a refund. They told me three days at first. Then, after three days I called back, and they told me seven to ten business days. It’s been ten business days. And now I have no refund.”

TO AVOID BEING SCAMMED: - Do not believe every text you receive. As a general rule, companies cannot send you text messages unless you opt in to receive them. If you receive a text message from a company you have not given permission to contact you in this way, proceed with caution.

- Go straight to the source. If an offer seems strange, or too good to be true, contact the company directly by looking up their official contact information online. Call or email customer service to find out if the text message you received is legitimate.

- Take a close look at web

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

addresses. If you follow a link in a text message that you believe is legitimate, examine the web address carefully before you take any action to make sure you are visiting a company’s official website and not a look-alike.

- Ignore instructions to text “STOP” or “NO”. Even if you realize the message is a scam, do not text back for any reason. Scammers may want you to text back to verify that your phone number is an active one. Instead, simply block the number to avoid receiving messages in the future.

- Change your password.

Even if you do not fall for this scam, Netflix advises its customers to change their password if they have been targeted.

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 21

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

GRANT MONEY

Merritt students encouraged to apply for grants Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER More than half a million dollars in awards is still available in Interior Savings’ Million Dollar Bursary Program, with just over six weeks before this year’s application deadline.

This is the eighth year for the program. Since 2013, more than $3.5 million in awards have been handed out, with $83,000 of that going to students in Merritt.

“On average, we award just over ten bursaries, or $10,000, in Merritt each year and we would love to see this number grow,” said Corinne Johnson, Manager of Community Engagement, Corinne Johnson explained that it has been more difficult to reach students this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through the program, each year Interior Savings provides a $1,000 bursary to 1,000 students. However, this year has only seen about 500 applicants.

“With many feeling the financial pinch due to the pandemic, the Credit Union is determined to make one final push to reach local students in need of help with tuition,” reads a statement from the financial institution.

“Applying for the program is easy.

There are no lengthy essays, references, or high academic grades needed. To qualify, applicants simply need to be 17 to 24 years old, use their Interior Savings account regularly, and provide proof of enrolment and tuition payment to a designated post-secondary institution.”

Although you need to be a member of the Credit Union to qualify for the bursary program, it isn’t too late to join through a simple process.

“There’s still time for students to become an Interior Savings member to qualify for a bursary and to take advantage of the benefits membership offers, including one-on-one financial coaching, a share of our profits and a free account for youth,” said Interior Savings CEO, Kathy Conway.

“We’re here to help our members with the financial tools and advice they need through every stage of their life

journey,” adds Conway. “And what better way to set our young members up for success than to support their educa-

tion.”

The deadline to become a Credit Union member and apply for the bur-

sary is Feb. 28. Visit www.milliondollarbursary.com for more information or to apply.

THANK YOU! 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.

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

♥

MERRITT HERALD THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2021 •

THIS WEEK

About $10,000 in grant money is awarded to Merritt students each year through the Interior Savings Million Dollar Bursary Program.

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

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

l a i c e p S ank 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

22 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

SPORTS

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

JUNIOR HOCKEY

Cents add young defender to roster Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM A promising young blueliner will suit up for the Merritt Centennials when they eventually take to the ice for the BCHL season.

The Cents announced on Saturday the signing of Norwegian-born defenseman Liam Davidson to the roster.

Only turning 17 years old this coming July, Davidson spent the majority of his late minor hockey career in the Okanagan Hockey Group system, where he excelled as a point-scoring d-man.

He will be making his debut in the BCHL,

having suited up for one game for the Sicamous Eagles of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League last season.

Davidson has, however, already seen icetime at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena after taking part in a past training camp.

He said that he is “super excited” to be joining the Centennials squad.

“There has been many great players go through the program and move on to college and even the NHL,” said Davidson, who added that he is “an offensive defenseman who likes to skate the puck while being reliable in the D-zone.”

“My biggest strengths

are my skating ability, vision, and puck handling.”

Cents Assistant Coach Zach Wright liked what he saw of Davidson in the camp he attended.

“Liam was a player we first identified at our Abbotsford summer camp last year... the staff were very impressed with Liam’s hockey IQ and his skating ability. He will also fit well into the culture we are building here in Merritt, as he is a great person with a great attitude. I’m very excited to help Liam develop next season.”

Though the regular season opener has been pushed back numerous times, the most recent date is tentatively set for early February.

Cents hire new top scout Jared Thomas CONTRIBUTOR The Merritt Centennials are pleased to hire Scott Pimblott as Head Scout of the team.

Pimblott has a wealth of experience, starting from learning from his father who scouted for the Spokane Chiefs, Regina Pats, Prince George Cougars and Kamloops Blazers. He was hired as a scout with the Red Lake Miners in 2015 where he met Centennials Head

Coach Derek SweetCoulter.

General Manager Sweet-Coulter says that he’s excited to be reunited with Pimblott.

“Scott has a great eye for talent and character.

More importantly he understands the type of player and person we are looking for in Merritt. It’s his passion and professionalism that will be the biggest asset to our organization moving forward.

We are extremely excited to add him to our staff as Head Scout and we look

forward to working with him.”

Pimblott adds that he’s happy to get started close to home.

“Being head scout in my own backyard is awesome after scouting for a team in Ontario for a number of years. I look forward to working with a storied team like the Cents and working with Derek again as well.”

The Centennials continue to practice ahead of a pending season start date of February 8th.

Curl BC cancels youth championships

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM Curl BC has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 Under-18 and 2021 Under-21 BC curling championships.

It was previously planned that Curl BC’s two highest-profile 2021 youth events would take place in the spring. The top U18 teams were due to meet in Chilliwack with the U21 teams slotted for Kelowna. The national events had already been cancelled by Curling Canada.

However, due to the Provincial Health Officer’s restrictions on group sport as a result of the COVID19 pandemic, many curling clubs have decided to close their doors for the

season.

Scott Braley, Curl BC CEO, said: “The latest extension of the restrictions has seen a surge in clubs deciding to shut for the remainder of the 2020-21 season.

“There are still many unknowns about the length of the season for those clubs that remain open, so we decided it was not practical to press ahead with plans for spring championships.

“We understand this will be a huge disappointment. However, we also know that it is the best way to keep everyone safe and give more flexibility to host clubs who may need to close at short notice.”

Curl BC would like to thank the clubs who were planning to host these events for their support,

and would also like to thank all the teams who registered to take part.

“We hope to see you out on the ice as much as possible for the remainder of the season and again next season,” reads a press release.

All teams who registered for these youth events will be refunded.

Curl BC, Curling Canada and our other sport partners are already putting plans in motion for a return to a more normal season in 202122. Timmons, Ont., will host the 2022 Canadian Under-18 Boys and Girls Curling Championships from Feb. 14-20, 2022.

The location of the national U21 event, scheduled for Mar. 19-22, 2022, has not yet been announced.

GOLF TALK Merritt’s Roger Sloan fell just one shot shy of reaching the weekend at the Sony Open in Hawaii last week.

In his first tournament of the new year, Sloan opened up in the top fifty with a three-under 67 in the opening round on Thursday, before posting an even par 70 on day two to barely miss the cut.

American Kevin Na was the winner come Sunday evening at -21. The top Canadian was Nick Taylor at -17.

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 23

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.

Skoflek Electric is a Merritt-based electrical company which offers both residential and commercial services.

Company owner Bela Skoflek and Head Electrician Bryan Tolmie tackle electrical projects big and small in the Nicola Valley, providing quality workmanship at a price that won’t break the bank.

Already a working electrician, Skoflek found himself feeling unfulfilled with the direction his life and career were taking. When he suddenly faced a huge personal hurdle, he decided it was time to make a change.

“My goal in the trade was always to get to the point of having my own company,” said Skoflek.

“The catalyst that actually made me follow through was getting sick.

I was diagnosed with lymphoma a few years ago.

At that point I re-

evaluated where I was at and where I wanted to be.”

Although Skoflek made a decent wage as a certified tradesman, he felt that there was more to life than punching a clock for someone else.

“I was at a pretty good point in my career, had full time work with a local contractor, but still didn’t feel fulfilled,” explained Skoflek.

“Working long hours, making good money, but sacrificing time with my son and family. I was off work for nearly a year doing treatment and used that time to plan the company. I didn’t have much money, but I had time. So, I got the extra education I needed, came up with a company logo and design, learned about bookkeeping, taxes, etc.”

Skoflek beat lymphoma and was able to return to work after finishing his treat-

ment period. It was at this time that Skoflek launched his company in Sept.

2019.

“It was terrifying and exciting all at once,” said Skoflek.

“It was a slow start but I had enough to make overhead. I had learned to live a bare bones lifestyle while sick. My first jobs were from friends and family who were supporting me, something I will forever be thankful for, and my focus was to provide quality work without price gouging.”

Through word of mouth from satisfied clients and the use of social media marketing and advertising, Skoflek began to see requests for his services increase and his business become busier.

“Word of mouth and Facebook marketing helped me start getting new clients and my mission stayed

the same, quality work, reasonable rates. Everything snowballed from there, but I maintained the low overhead lifestyle,” said Skoflek.

“This allowed me to pour all the income back into the company.

Getting better tools and equipment to streamline work. Radio ads and better marketing to bring in more customers.

Soon it became bigger than I could handle alone.”

Suddenly, Skoflek Electric saw its first expansion, bringing in Bryan Tolmie to help shoulder the workload.

“Bryan joined the team, and he was a perfect fit,” said Skoflek.

“He had ample experience in the trade and is great with client interaction. We were very like-minded.”

Both were of the same opinion that they should be a solid company providing reliable work at

reasonable rates, and that family should always come first even alongside business responsibilities.

“We are able to achieve this by streamlining workflow and keeping overhead low,” explained Skoflek.

“The end goal of every job is to have the customer satisfied with the work performed, it has never been about money. I am able to take my son to school and pick him up every day. That’s what it is all about. Going forward we want to sustain the same mindset and grow it. We want to help Merritt grow and give back to the community that fostered our company.”

When it comes time to relax and blow off steam, the lifelong Merrittonian still keeps up with his favourite hobby – skateboarding.

“I usually go around two times a week in the summer,” said Skoflek.

“The non-competitive aspect is what drew me to it, I was never big on team sports.

Skateboarding was a way to do something together with friends while everyone is doing

completely independent things.”

That ability to be successful and have fun independent of others has helped Skoflek build a business others have already come to trust in the less than two years since he started.

If you are in need of an electrician, you can contact Skoflek Electric at 250315-3507, or find them on Facebook at ‘Skoflek Electric’.

Fri. Jan. 22

Sat. Jan. 23

Sun. Jan. 24

Mon. Jan. 25

Tues. Jan. 26

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

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church

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

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Ave. (Corner of Coutlee and Orme) • 250-378-2464 Service Time: 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. 21 - Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021 Thurs. Jan. 21

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

Wed. Jan. 27

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• • • • Mix of Sun & Clouds High -2˚C Low: -11˚C

Cloudy w/Sunny Breaks High: -4˚C Low: --15˚C

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Light Snow High: -3˚C Low: -7˚C

Scattered Flurries High:-3˚C Low: -10˚C

Mixed of Sun & Clouds High: -4˚C Low: --12˚C

Mainly Sunny High: -3˚C Low: -10˚C

STAIN GLASS SUN CATCHERS NIGHT LIGHTS PICTURE FRAMES

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

24 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

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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

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Wanted Cash for gold and silver! Also buying coin collections, old money, old jewelry Contact Todd 1250-864-3521.

Obituaries

Obituaries

Inez Smith

Feb. 10, 1932 - Jan. 15, 2021

Nov. 8, 1944 - Jan. 9 2021

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Norman after a time of illness, at the age of 88 years. Norman was born in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan and grew up in Saskatchewan before moving to BC. Norman was predeceased by his parents, twin baby sisters, sister Alma, brothers Alvin and Gordon. He leaves to mourn his wife Vivian, married 61 years.

Also his daughters Linda and Wendy (David Lyall), grandchildren Janine, Chris, Laurel, Brianne and Larissa, great grandchildren Kaitlyn, Keith, Nora and Mable. Also siblings Mary (Eli), Violet, Harold (Marlene),Shirley (Mark), June (Ron), and Ken (Debbie) and many nieces and nephews We remember him lovingly and he will be greatly missed. We are at peace, his suffering and pain are over and he is with the Lord whom he loved. Because of COVID 19 there will be no service.

We appreciate and are thankful for the doctors and nurses and staff at Langley Memorial Hospital for their tender care and kindness during the last three months flowers please consider of his life. In lieu of owers a donation to Vancouver Children’s Hospital.

On January 9 we lost a beautiful woman, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Left to cherish her memories are her loving husband Allan, daughter Maria(Keith), grandson Rob, brotherin-law Roger(Lynn), sister-in-law Jane(Bill,deceased), nieces/nephews, and grandnieces/grandnephews.

Inez was born November 8, 1944 at the Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, to Robert and Cacilie Schmaltz and big sister Maria. She lost her sister at age 11 but was gifted with her niece Mona.

She met the love of her life in 1963 and they were married the following year and had their only daughter December first years of their marriage they 1964. The rst moved around finally nally settling in Logan Lake the fall of 1972.

She was a giving and compassionate person who not only gave of herself to her family and friends but to her community as well. In 1973 she helped establish the L.L. Pioneer the first rst paper for the community. She was responsible for getting the Welcoming Committee set up in Logan Lake and spent many years involved with it. She joined Victims Services and E.S.S. as well as serving on the Logan Lake Health Advisor and later the Health Support Society, until she went MERN210121_A into Gillis House in 2018.

Inez was honored in 1993 with the Citizen of the Year award and in 2014 was recognized by the RCMP for 20 years as a member of Victims Services.

The family would like to extend heart filled lled thanks to the healthcare workers and staff of Gillis House in Merritt for taking such good care of Inez these past two years.

We would like to send a special thank you to our home-care worker, Crystal, who treated Inez like family and always made her feel special.

A Celebration of life will be held when we can gather .

Memorial donations may be made to Gillis House in Merritt. or Arthritis Society of BC.

Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other REGULAR OFFICE HOURS On Call 24 Hours A Day

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

call to place your ad 604.630.3300

250-378-4241

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MURRAY,, Sandra Sandra Fern Fern MURRAY, August 31, 1946 – January 9, 2021 August 31, 1946 – January 9, 2021

It is with heavy hearts and extreme It is with heavy hearts and extreme sadness that the friends of Sandy sadness that the friends of Sandy announce her passing on Sat, Jan 9th announce her passing on Sat, Jan 9th in Merritt, BC. At age 74, she was taken in Merritt, BC. At age 74, she was taken from us far too soon. from us far too soon.

She was born in North Vancouver on August 31, 1946 to Art She was born in North Vancouver on August 31, 1946 to Art and Annie Lewis and lived in BC her whole life. She had many and Annie Lewis and lived in BC her whole life. She had many passions and she is remembered for the joy she received at passions and she is remembered for the joy she received at pursuing them. Her family had a cabin on Keats Island and as pursuing them. Her family had a cabin on Keats Island and as a child she started her rock and shell collections there. Sandy a child she started her rock and shell collections there. Sandy worked as a Kitchen Aid at Lions Gate Hospital for 4 yrs while worked as a Kitchen Aid at Lions Gate Hospital for 4 yrs while living at home and during her vacations she still loved going living at home and during her vacations she still loved going to that cabin. During that time she met the love of her life, Bill to that cabin. During that time she met the love of her life, Bill Murray, and in 1971 they were married.

Murray, and in 1971 they were married.

For about 20 yrs they lived in many locations around the Lower For about 20 yrs they lived in many locations around the Lower Mainland while Billy drove truck. Sandy was a housewife who Mainland while Billy drove truck. Sandy was a housewife who never had to work another day in her life as Billy said that he never had to work another day in her life as Billy said that he wanted to to take take care care of of their their nancial financial needs. needs. This This left left a a lot lot of of wanted time in her days.

Billy and Sandy loved animals and so it was a time in her days. Billy and Sandy loved animals and so it was a momentous day day in in her her life life when when he he found found Skunkers, Skunkers, her her beautiful beautiful momentous black horse. horse. Sandy Sandy would would drive drive to to Richmond Richmond 2 2 or or 3 3 times times a a black week, with with their their dog dog Rusty, Rusty, to to where where Skunkers Skunkers was was boarded. boarded. week, Many fun fun days days were were spent spent training training him, him, riding riding and and of of course course Many cleaning his his stall. stall. Rusty, Rusty, Skunkers Skunkers and and Sandy Sandy were were inseparable. inseparable. cleaning During this this time time at at the the Coast, Coast, Sandy Sandy started started collecting collecting artifacts artifacts During of early early Canadian Canadian life; life; both both Indigenous Indigenous and and early early Canadian Canadian of culture. She She painstakingly painstakingly created created replicas replicas of of many many First First Nation Nation culture. pieces using using materials materials that that were were available available to to her. her. They They are are works works pieces of art. art. Other Other activities activities she she enjoyed enjoyed were were roller roller skating, skating, caring caring of for her her beautiful beautiful ower flower gardens gardens (she (she especially especially loved loved roses roses and and for Azaleas), cooking, cooking, music music and and adding adding to to her her many many treasured treasured Azaleas), collections. collections.

In the the late late 1980’s 1980’s they they were were getting getting tired tired of of the the noise noise and and In confusion of of the the big big city city and and wanted wanted to to have have a a more more peaceful peaceful confusion life. They They found found a a property property in in Brookmere.

Brookmere. While While the the house house was was life. being built built in in 1991, 1991, Sandy Sandy lived lived in in a a little little old old log log cabin cabin on on the the being property while while Billy’s Billy’s trucking trucking work work was was still still based based at at the the Coast.

Coast. property She loved loved the the outdoors outdoors and and spent spent a a lot lot of of time time exploring exploring on on her her She trike and and snowmobile snowmobile or or looking looking for for rocks rocks on on the the river river bank bank with with trike friends and and neighbours. neighbours. Thynne Thynne and and Shovelnose Shovelnose Mts Mts were were in in friends her backyard. backyard. In In addition addition she she loved loved getting getting rewood firewood and and the the her warmth of of a a wood wood stove. stove. warmth Trips to to town town or or to to the the Coast Coast were were very very exciting exciting for for her her and and Trips always included included scouting scouting for for new new additions additions to to her her many many always collections. She She accumulated accumulated many many books, books, was was self-taught self-taught and and collections. was very knowledgeable in so many things.

In the last couple of years with the help of a special neighbour, Leesa, they designed and created a lily pond in her backyard. flowers, sh fish and She so enjoyed peaceful times amongst the owers, bugs.

She is predeceased by her brother Wayne, and her husband Billy. She will always be remembered and deeply missed by her special friends Hilary, Marian and Ken, Leesa and Ed, Julie and Ken, Helga, and Marge. A huge thank you goes to special friend and neighbour Leesa who included her as part of her family and was her long time care giver while she was at home and also when she had to move to town. In addition, a thank you goes to the staff at the Florentine in Merritt who put up with her stubborn ways and won her over with good food, friendship and loving care.

By request there will be no service. Her ashes will be combined with her beloved Billy and 2 dogs and scattered in the outdoors she loved.

THURSDAY January 21, 2021 • 25

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Obituaries

Olga g Englot g Jan. 2, 1932- Jan. 5, 2021 Olga Englot Ol E l t was born in Paddock wood Saskatchewan.

She was the oldest of 10 siblings. Sisters Joan, Ruby, Pat and Iris and brothers Stan, Dan, Bill, Jim and Jack. Their parents used to say they had a baseball team and a spare. She moved with her family to the Fraser valley in BC around 1942-43. She married Theodore Edward Englot, later separated (deceased) and they together had 5 children. Audrey, Michael, Richard, Barbara, Leesa Olga loved Fishing, Dancing, growing flowers owers and the outdoors, but her biggest love of all was her 8 grandchildren Todd, Daryll, Bubbi, Mike Jr., Robert, Tayadora, Vicki and Jeffrey who intern gave her lots of great grandchildren. Lucas, Willow, Brandon, Kylie, Theo, Timothy, Chelsea, Madison, Makenna, Xander and Alivia.

She was very much an active part of most of their lives and regular sleepovers were a main part of it. She even looked after a few of them on a regular basis for some time. In her 89 years She was even lucky enough to be blessed with some great, great grandchildren.

Ryder, Logan, Steven, Emma and Arthur.

Nothing made her happier than to have her grandkids around to spend time laughing playing and just having fun with them.

She had many cherished nephews and nieces too. Just a phone call from them would make her smile. Throughout her life she held many jobs. She worked in a launder matt, spent time as a janitor, picked many a berry in her life and then spent 23 years working at a nursery in Aldergrove. There she did everything from cuttings, potting plants , weeding, tree planting and even making deliveries.

Once retired, she moved to Armstrong BC to be closer to her sister Joan and reunite with other family members and friends.

She loved her 11 years in Armstrong. She spent lots of time attending the music jams at the Armstrong Legion, tapping her toes and singing to the music and making many lasting good friends. Due to health reasons in 2014 she then moved to The Florentine in Merritt BC to be a bit closer to her youngest daughter Leesa. fishing trips, Together they had many shing camping trips, road trips, scenic drives and family dinners. Here she also made many good friends. It is sad to see her go but gives us great relief that she does not suffer anymore. She will be missed dearly, never forgotten and carried always in the hearts of all who’s lives she touched.

We ask that you please share your stories, photos and memories with us at www.firstmemorialkamloops.com www.rstmemorialkamloops.com we will be having a celebration of life in the summer DTBA. If you are interested going4la_fishing@ in attending contact going4la_shing@ hotmail.com to be included on the list.

Obituaries

Obituaries

Employment

Employment

individuals to make health care decisions now, in case they cannot give consent for treatments offered in the future P: 250-280-1701

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

Legal / Public Notices

Legal / Public Notices

Under the terms of the Warehouseman’s Lien Act, Goods and Personal Property of the persons listed below deposited at Nicola Valley RV & Mini Storage Ltd 340 Coyle Place (Marshall Road) V1K 1N4 250-280-8704 have been seized due to non-payment of storage rent and will be sold to cover costs of unpaid storage.

LEGAL NOTICE Jamie Gordon

Opal Charters Unit #23 Owing $660.00 These goods and personal property will be sold at a date still to be determined.

Payment for your storage is now overdue

(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

Payment is required before February 4th, 2021 After this date your contents will be disposed.

Contain It Storage.

Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161

To advertise call

SHIPPING CLERK Aspen Planers, LTD, Merritt, BC

250-378-4241

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Employment

VICTIM SERVICES CASE WORKER

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY ADVANCE CARE PLANNING is a choice that allows

Employment

Aspen Planers is seeking a full-time Shipping Clerk for our Merritt Ofce.

This position requires a self-motivated, analytical, team player that works independently and is able to multi task in a fast paced manufacturing environment. Excellent communication skills coupled with strong organizational, problem solving, bookkeeping and computer skills are crucial to success in this position.

Duties include: • Prepare paperwork for shipments of lumber, coordinate trucks and rail to numerous yards and customers.

• Keeping accurate inventory at all yards.

• Preparing border documents, communicating with various rail lines.

• Administrative tasks including Accounts payable and other ofce duties This position will also provide back up to other ofce positions.

We thank all applicants who express any interest; however only those selected for interview will be contacted.

Submit your resume to: email: shereesimon@apgroup.ca

Thanks for wearing a mask, for everyone!

TODAY'S PUZZLE A NSWERS

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 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 bene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.

Bamboo Panda Restaurant (previous Tropico Spice Restaurant) IS LOOKING FOR 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 certi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

FULL & PART TIME WAITRESSES WANTED No phone calls please Please drop off resume to: 2052 Quilchena, Avenue, Merritt, B.C.

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Volunteering

We can’t do it without you The BC SPCA cares for thousands of orphaned, abandoned and abused animals each year.

Volunteers are urgently needed to care for animals and assist with BC SPCA events.

If you can help, please contact your local shelter today.

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.

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27. Chemical substance 29. Slang for famous person 32. Department of Labor 34. The A-team rode around in one 35. Beach cabin 36. Living things 39. Gun (slang)

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• Tune Ups • Exhaust Brakes • ase visit me at

19+

Call 250-378-5 420 Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC

2026 Mamette Avenue

PLUMBING & HEATING

DENTIST

ting a e H & g n i b m u l Nicola P

ed to announce I have relocated to Merritt, BC. h me 18 years of experience in Insurance Investments.

Let’sand talk about looking forward to meeting you, please visit me at Money for Life hena Avenue.

Fully Qualied Tradesmen in.. about Money for Life.

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.

Leslee Lucy* CFP® CPCA of companies.

Service Work & Furnace Service.

Tel: 250-574-4730 leslee.lucy@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/leslee.lucy 3499 Voght Street P.O. Box 639 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

S T BE

Custom Sheet Metal Atlas RV Parts & Repairs

PHONE: 250-378-4943

NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME

GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call

2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC

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.

Mutual the funds distributed hter under sun by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc.

HOURS

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

ibuted by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. ce Company of Canada, 2017.

CLEANING SERVICES

ADVERTISING MERRITT HERALD

Advertising works!

Place your ad in our Business Directory!

For more information contact Ken at:

250-378-4241 g.com

kcouture@aberdeenpublishin

CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS REMOVAL

BOOK TODAY!

250-378-9410

CARPET CLEANING UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING – FLOOD & JANITORIAL SERVICES

www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com TF: 1-877-612-0909

TREE SERVICE JIM POTTER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE • Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment ➤Schedule your FREE Estimate

CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

Solutions for your tree problems!

INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Y COMFORT, CLARIT E NC IDE NF CO AND E LET MP CO A GH THROU

FINANCIAL PL AN Cashflow and Insurance Planning Portfolio Management Tax and Estate Planning

today!

Contact Kyle for your plan

2-2955 Ext. 259 Cell Phone: 250-879-6306 • Office: 250-37 dvisor.investorsgroup.com/en/kyle_schell e-mail: Kyle.schell@ig.ca • Website: http://a

ADVERTISING Are you expanding your client base? way Looking for an accessible for people to find you? iness Directory” page Thu ry Eve ent *with minimum 1 month committm s each week.

Reach over 5330 reader

“Local Bus JOIN the Herald’srsda y, Always Full Colour!

-378-4241 or Contact Theresa at 250 herald.com Email: publisher@merritt

28 • THURSDAY, January 21, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

MerrittMerritt Real Estate Services Ltd.Ltd. HELPING SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! HELPINGYOU YOU IS IS WHAT WHAT WE WE DO! SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! Real Estate Services

A Home Changes Everything!

Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt for a complete list of current listings

3499 Voght St. Merritt BC V1K 1C6

250-378-6181 2682 GRANITE AVENUE

email: rlpmerit@telus.net

$339,900 441 BAILEY ROAD

$549,900

INVESTORS TAKE NOTE! GREAT RENTAL INCOME IN THIS NEWER 4 BEDROOM 2 BATH HALF DUPLEX. Upstairs offers 3 bedrooms, 4 piece bath, nice kitchen with built in microwave, dining area, and large living room with lots of light. Good tenants in place.

ONE LOOK WILL DO! UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS, INSIDE AND OUTSIDE EVERYTHING WILL PLEASE YOU in this distinctive 3 bedroom, 3 bath country home with solid maple floors and kitchen cabinets with large island and beautiful crown moldings.

MLS#160001

MLS# 159022

CLAUDETTE EDENOSTE: • 250-280-0689 •email: claudetteedenoste@royallepage.ca

4830 SADDLE CRESCENT

$110,000 248 CALCITE DRIVE LOGAN LAKE

Owner/Broker

$449,900

3 BEDROOM 2 BATH NEWLY DESIGNED HOME with a walk out basement in beautiful Logan Lake is nearing the finishing stages. Open concept design with a large 11 X 15 deck out the back overlooking the Highland Valley. Home has a double garage, and a 1300 sqft unfinished basement for the handyman. 30 min from Kamloops or 40 min from MLS# 159811 Merritt.

TRANQUILITY IN THE AREA OF MILE HIGH RESORT. Thinking of building that retirement home, summer get away or just building your dream home.

Then look no further as this .29 acre lot is for you.

Easy access to Face lake. The lake boasts rainbow trout averaging 1.5-2 LBS. In winter, skating on the lake provides a picturesque view.

MLS# 155423

FREDERICK SINGER (LOGAN LAKE): • 250-318-8392 •email: fred.singer@royallepage.ca

2915 TRANS CANADA HWY

$980,000 2701 LANGSTAFF PLACE

$419,900

BEAUTIFUL 5 BED/ 3 BATH HOME LOCATED ON A QUIET CUL-DE-SAC. The kitchen & dining area is open and bright with lots of room for entertaining. The raised living room shares a 3 sided NG fireplace with the dining room below. The large attached garage has room for 2 cars and plenty of room for storage. Call the listing agent to book your private showing.

MLS# 157976

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY ON THE TRANS CANADA HWY JUST OUTSIDE OF LYTTON. This 37.96 Acre property includes the Shaw Springs 60 seat Restaurant with 32 site full hook RV park complete with Washroom & Shower Building. This property is located on 1.25 kms of direct waterfront on the Thompson River.

MLS# 157957

JENNIFER KIGHTLEY: • 250-315-3256 •email: jenniferkightley@royallepage.ca

$228,000 2125 QUILCHENA AVENUE

1626 CANFORD AVENUE

$570,000 GREAT STORE FRONT LOCATION WITH 1300 SQUARE FOOT RENTAL APARTMENT ABOVE. Property has curbside parking at front plus parking at back for loading and unloading. Main floor is approximately 4,230 square feet and can be divided into two units with separate heat and air conditioning.

RANCHER HOME IN GOOD AREA, WITH TRAILS, PARK AND CORNER STORE CLOSE BY. Home has parking in front as well as access off back lane. Fully fenced back yard with ample room to play or garden. Excellent long term tenants, if considering a holding property.

MLS# #158599

MLS# 159946 Managing Broker

JOHN ISAAC: • 250-378-1586 •email: johnisaac@telus.net

2672 GRANITE AVENUE

$519,500 4149 WALTERS STREET

$139,000

HURRY! THIS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THE LAST PRIME BUILDING LOT AVAILABLE IN A VERY DESIRABLE AREA OF MERRITT for you to build your custom home. one of those rare lots in Merritt that offers the opportunity for a walk out basement, nice views, close to all major amenities and easy access to the highway.

HURRY! THIS WELL MAINTAINED AND SPACIOUS 7 BEDROOM, 4 1/2 BATHROOM FAMILY HOME WILL NOT LAST LONG. The home has many features including a a nicely finished 2 bdrm legal suite on the ground level and a separate area for guests.

MLS# 159001

MLS# 159910

TONY LUCK: • 604-217-5825 •email: tjluck@royallepage.ca

2455 BURGESS AVENUE

$210,000 2521 SPRING BANK AVENUE

ENJOY THE COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE RIGHT WITHIN THE CITY ON THIS .77 ACRE LOT located in a prestigious neighborhood on a quiet cul de sac. This lot is offers over 200 feet of river frontage and is located within walking distance to Central Park, churches and the downtown core.

D

L SO

$100,000

FULLY SERVICED LOTS JUST WAITING FOR YOUR NEW EAGLE HOMES MODULAR HOME. These lots are close to all amenities, offer gorgeous views, and are all flat and useable. All lot purchases are subject to GST. MLS#158925

MLS# 157710 Personal Real Estate Corporation

DEBRA SCHINDLER: • 250-315-3548 •email: debbieschindler2@gmail.com

2125B CLARKE AVENUE

$229,900 1320 VOGHT STREET

$169,900

THIS 2000 SQFT, 3 BED, 2 FULL BATH 1/2 DUPLEX could be nicely updated for a growing family with the basement waiting for your ideas. 42 x 130 ft lot with access to the backyard. Close to schools and shopping! Currently tenanted.

THIS 70 X 254 FT LOT IS ZONED R2 WHICH ALLOWS FOR DUPLEX OR MULTI-FAMILY USE. New zoning amendments allow for more lot coverage or build your home and have a carriage house above the garage for additional income!

MLS# 159813

MLS# 160031

DENISE DESILETS: • 250-315-8395 •email: denisedesilets@royallepage.ca