Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905
MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 •
HWY CRASH
themerrittherald •
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DISC GOLF
A commercial vehicle collision claimed the life of one driver and sparked a blaze on Hwy 97C.
/PAGE 5
Merrittonians will soon have access to a brand new disc golf course at Bench Park.
FREE
RED TAPE
/PAGE 10
A Food Bank volunteer and Syrian refugee has been stranded in Merritt for over year.
/PAGE 14
The Merritt Secondary School grad class of 2021 lines up along Canford Avenue before the car parade through town on June 19.
28-PAGE GRAD SPREAD INSIDE
CLASS OF 2021
6377 MONCK PARK ROAD
Spectacular Nicola Lake view home. This open concept rancher with a walkout basement has quality features throughout. There is a rock fireplace up in the huge living room with large windows to let in all the natural light and view of the lake and hills. There is a large island in the gourmet kitchen areas as well comes with all major kitchen appliances. There are 2 bedrooms up and 2 bedrooms down. The master bedrm has a 5 pce ensuite with walk-in closet also some indirect lighting. In the walkout basement you have a very large rec/games room with rock fireplace and 2 large bedrms as well as lots of storage. Enjoy the sprawling 612 sq.ft. covered deck on main level, great area for BBQ’s plus a 720 sq.ft. covered area below.
MLS#162851
$1,075,000
Moving Real Estate BC Ltd. http:// brad-yakimchuk.c21.ca
250-378-6166
Brad Yakimchuk 250-315-3043 Personal Real Estate Corporation
2 • THURSDAY,
www.merrittherald.com
June 24, 2021
Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts providing you with the highest level of care.
250.378.6941 https://legacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 12-311 Highway 8
Janis Post
Karen Bonneteau
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
250-315-3672
6397 Monck Park Road
ICE R P NEW
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Sarah Dickie
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
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250-315-5178 250-315-3377
6665 Monck Park Road-
SOLD
MLS#162369 $69,000 Nice 2 bed, 1 bath, home located in the quiet Cottonwood MHP. The home fts an open design w/ kitchen, dining & living room, new flooring in enclosed porch addition.
MLS161062 $198,000 Build your dream home on this .94 acre lot overlooking the beautiful Nicola Lake. This development is becoming one of the premiere locations due to the proximity to the larger city center.
MLS#162214 $209,000 Stunning panoramic views over Nicola Lake from this gorgeous 1+acre lot in the Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Build your dream home or weekend getaway at 1 of BC’s premiere locations.
2582 Quilchena Avenue
2-1749 Menzies Street
2052 Gillis Cres
SOLD
SOLD
250-315-8377
250-280-0994
2576 Quilchena Ave
SOLD
250-280-0835
Jordyn Chenier REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
250-280-2353
1652 Coldwater Avenue
SOLD
MLS#161759 $325,000 MLS#162578 $349,000 4-bedroom, 1 bath home in a central location and walking Cute & cozy 2 bedroom 1 bath house in excellent location only steps away distance to town. Owner has done some updating in the from downtown Merritt. Home has been well looked after over the years & is past few years including roof, electrical, windows, furnace, move in ready. Beautiful original hardwood floors, updated kitchen, 10’ ceilings, 100 Amp Service, certified Pellet stove, w/ updated roof & HW tank. & some flooring.
200 Veale Road
2881 Cranna Cres
ICE R P NEW
MLS#162459 $374,900 INVEST IN MERRITT Check out all your options with the R2 Zoning! 1728 sq. ft. Home with a nice 24 X 16 wired insulated Shop/Garage with alley access.
MLS#162624 $379,000 Nice 3 bed, 2.5 bath townhouse in popular Sun Valley Court. This unit has had updated flooring on the main floor along with newer kitchen countertops, built-in bookshelf, hot water tank 5 years old.
MLS#162532 $399,000 Charming 3 bed, 1 bath rancher in a marvelous location! Updated galley kitchen w/ open concept living & dining area. Kick back on the deck & relax or putter away at gardening in the fully fenced back yard.
MLS#162343 $435,000 Beautiful 11-acre property within 5 minutes from Merritt & 2.5 hours from Vancouver. Build your dream home on this property that offers stunning views of the valley.
MLS#162599 $449,000 Nice family home in good Merritt location. This home has tons of potential. Two bedrooms up and one down with a partially finished basement. Owner has put in some recent upgrades.
408 Merritt Spences Bridge
2290 Merritt Avenue
1830 1st Avenue
2115 Mamette Ave
2448 Aberdeen Road
ICE R P NEW MLS#161711 $450,000 Investors!!! Just minutes from Merritt in the Lower Nicola area, this .31-acre parcel of land offers a side-by-side fourplex – no strata fees!
2343 McGoran Place
SOLD
Very nice 4-bed, 3-bath family home located in desired area of Merritt, walking distance to downtown. The home features an updated kitchen w/ lots of cabinets & counter space, large living room w/ gas f/p, a nice MB w/ 4pc ensuite, central A/C, new roof in 2015, lots of storage & bright rooms.
MLS#161615 $539,000 Good location in desirable area of Merritt, this cathedral entrance home has great street appeal, and is move-in ready w/ 3 bed up & 2 down. Oak kitchen w/ gas stove, fridge, D/W & microwave included.
MLS#162237 $599,000 Nice 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home located in a great neighborhood on a quiet cul-de-sac, walking distance to downtown Merritt and recreation centers.
MLS#162499 $635,000 2.79 acres in DESIRABLE LOWER NICOLA. Flat, usable, fenced acreage. Beautiful views of the valley & mountains from your kitchen & dining rooms! 3+3 beds in this lovely family dwelling & property.
2820 Peregrine Way
2175 Nicola Avenue
2748 Eagle Cres
4117 Walters Street
MLS#162426
$465,000
NEW
NEW
ICE R P NEW
MLS#162738 $635,000 Beautiful 5 bed, 2.5 bath family home in excellent location close to downtown Merritt & all amenities. Home had many updates including windows, composite siding, high end deck flooring & new railings.
MLS#161464 $675,000 2019 LEVEL ENTRY RANCHER (approx 1300sq ft) w/ WALK OUT BASEMENT. Lovely, warm décor in this 3 bed, 2.5 bath home w/ Panoramic views from the 25’ x 10’ BBQ deck.
MLS#162471 $715,000 Fully renovated up & down duplex located in downtown Merritt. Both suites feature a nice open floor plan w/ 2 large beds, full laundry services, kitchen open to living/ dining room, and plenty of storage.
838 Trans Canada Highway
1963 Greaves Ave
660 Billwiller Road
MLS#160859 $1,199,000 The Ultimate Escape! Only 2.5 hrs from lower mainland. 70 pristine acres not in the ALR, 1 km south of beautiful Lytton. Stunning views from every angle, freshwater spring, & 2 water licenses.
MLS#162308 $1,200,000 Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath, home on a private .41acre lot, tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac, w/ an inviting heated inground pool & detached 26’X40’ insulated, heated & wired shop/garage.
MLS#160799
$1,499,000
Piece of paradise, just mins from Merritt. This 19.5-acre land offers custom 2 bed + den, poss. 3rd bed, 2.5 bath rancher w/ 2 car garage, as well as detached 24 X 36 wired shop. The land produced 28 tons of grass mix hay w/ no irrigation in 2020.
MLS#161550
$729,000
MLS# 162837
$835,000
Amazing panoramic views from the back deck of this spacious rancher w/ walk-out basement & mortgage helper w/ the legal 2, possible 3 bed suite. Investors take note: home & suite currently rented together for $2900.00 per month plus utilities.
Grandiose: 5 bed 4 bath custom built home in 2006. Built on a desirable street makes this home perfect for your growing family. Main floor features beautiful jatoba wood flooring, 20ft ceilings in the formal dining area, Kitchen features espresso shaker style cabinets that opens to a nice quaint family room & large patio.
1464 Miller Road
492 Woodward Avenue
MLS#161824 $1,499,900 RETREAT & SERENITY in Miller Estates, panoramic views in an area of custom-built homes & equestrian estate properties. Oversized great room w/ vaulted ceilings to complement bright open living area.
MLS#161693 $1,750,000 63 Acre Farmland & Home within 15 minutes of Merritt! Great place to raise your family. Bring your horses, goats, sheep, & cattle. Water licence & irrigation rights to creek.
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Kindergarten grads!
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 3
For all your landscaping needs call the professionals at
Serving Merritt with Excellence for over 28 yrs tlcpond1@telus.net
250-378-4166
INSIDE THE HERALD Opinion ---------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------ 18 Weather -------------------- 19 Classifieds ---------- 20-21
Online merrittherald.com
HEAT WAVE
The Southern Interior is bracing for high temperatures this week, as the mercury is expected to rise as high as 41 degrees Celsius, cexacerbating an already hot and dry year.
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Central Elementary celebrated their kindergarten graduates with a small ceremony. Mrs. Ferris’ Division 11 class and Mrs. Sahota’s Division 10 students will be moving on to the first grade come September.
LOCAL PROJECTS WE’VE HELPED FUND
is a charitable society dedicated, through fund raising, to the enhancement of healthcare in the Nicola Valley since 1984.
♥ Hospital Emergency Equipment: Renovation and Expansion Project ♥ The Berta Fraser Centre at Gillis House ♥ Adult Day Care Bus ♥ Merritt Hospice Society All money raised/donated stays in our Nicola Valley.
PUBLIC MEETINGS The public are welcomed back to in-person meetings at City Hall thanks to an easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions by Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.
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IF YOU’D LIKE TO DONATE Donations can be done on-line at nvhcef.com, through
250-315-1832 or by mail to Box 1423, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
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THURSDAY, July 30, 2020 44 •• THURSDAY, June24, 24,2021 2021 June
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4 • THURSDAY, June 13, 2019
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CITY
City of Merritt
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 encouraged to watch online via www.merritt.ca streaming links available at www.merritt.ca and on the City
of Merritt social media channels. Public questions/ July 20 - Regular Council Meeting 6:00 PM Regular Council Meeting - June-input 25, 2019 information can be submitted prior to the Council Regular Council Meeting - July 9, 2019 meetings to communications@merritt.ca Regular Council Meeting - July 23, 2019 CANADA DAYCouncil CELEBRATIONS Regular Meeting - August 4 - 7 pm
Meeting - August 18 - 7 pmof physical The CityRegular of MerrittCouncil is following Provincial Health Guidelines distancing and no gatherings of more than 100 vehicles. This being the case, the Merritt Canada Day Celebrations will look a bit different Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications for the position of CASUAL LIFEGUARD/ this year. INSTRUCTOR I. PUBLIC HEARING TUESDAY 4th, 2020 at 7:00PM The fireworks will be heldatAugust at Central Park on July 1. For complete details,location visit Cityon of Merritt website www.merritt.ca Community members are strongly encouraged to watch the Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing Canada Day Fireworks live streamed on the educationisand qualifications, andthat proof of andwill licenses be accepted prior to Notice hereby given a required Publiceducation Hearing be will held on Tuesday City ofFriday, Merritt Facebook page or from their own backyards. 4:00 p.m. July 12, 2019 by: August 4th, 2020 in the Council Chambers at Merritt City Hall, located City parks parking lots will have restricted areas. at 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC with respect to the following proposed Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager During the d ay there will be a variety safe cfraser@merritt.ca PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or of by email: Zoning Bylaw 2284, 2020. community activities for the whole family to We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be Acontacted. copy of the in proposed the Bylaw and other relevant documents may be participate
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
PUBLIC NOTICE
viewed during normal business hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on Thursday Keep posted on the City of Merritt website and Date Posted: Monday, June 17, 2019 July 23rdmedia to Tuesday August 4th, 2020 at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt socialExpires: channels for2019 more info. Posting Friday, July 12, BC, or online at www.merritt.ca
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE STUDENT WORK PLACEMENT PROGRAM
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 ELIGIBLE EMPLOYERS their availability to Council at the Public Hearing. CAN ACCESS 250-378-4224 A WAGE SUBSIDY OF Written submission can be provided by any of the following methods: UP TO $7,000 TO HIRE STUDENT! Don AMcArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager
STUDENT WORK PLACEMENTdmcarthur@merritt.ca PROGRAM
PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8
AllELIGIBLE submissions must include your name and
street address. No letter, EMPLOYERS
ACCESS report CAN or representation from the public will be received by Council after
A WAGE SUBSIDY OF
the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All written submissions are public UP TO $7,000 information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection
! " TO HIRE A STUDENT! of Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning & # $
Development Services Manager at 250-378-8620 or at dmcarthur@merritt. ca
page
in Council the Mayor’s Office at floor), 2185 VoghtStreet Street In Chambers atCity CityHall Hall (second (First Floor), 2185 Voght
Wednesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
These appointments are available in-person, but phone and In-person meetings areHall currently paused, phone in the Mayor’s Office at City (second floor), but 2185 Voghtand Street. video calls calls are are encouraged encouraged to to discuss discuss issues issues and and opportunities. opportunities. video
Interested citizens are welcome to stop by, say250-378-8634 hello and discuss Booking an appointment ahead of time is required by calling
issues and opportunities for the City, its residents and businesses.
If you would like to schedule a particular time to meet with the Mayor please contact Corporate Services at 250-378-8614
CHANGES TO THENOTE HOMEOWNER GRANT PLEASE A NOTICE OFAPPLICATION PUBLIC This City of Merritt wishes to notify residents of a change in the Homeowner Grant application EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY HEARING SCHEDULED FOR
process. Eligible residential property owners can now claim their 2021 homeowner grant with the Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications position of longer PUBLICprocess WORKShomeowner SEASONAL Province. wants to emphasize to residentsfor thatthethey can no grant applications at City Hall. LABOURER.
AUGUST 4, 2020 AT 7:00 PM IS ON PAGE 5
AsFor soon as youdetails, receive your taxwebsite notice,atyou can apply for your grant. To avoid penalty complete visit Cityproperty of Merritt www.merritt.ca file your application before June 30th. Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing There are two to file. You apply online ateducation www.gov.bc.ca/homewonergrant or by education andways qualifications, andcan proof of required and licenses will be accepted prior to telephone 1-888-355-2700. Information is available on the City website at merritt.ca. 4:00 p.m.atMonday, July 08, 2019 by:
Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca
2021 SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE We thankAVAILABLE all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be NOW contacted.
The City of Merritt would like to invite Nicola Valley residents to Date Friday,Activity June 21, 2019 view thePosted: 2021 summer Guide to help maintain active Postingwhile Expires: Monday, lifestyles keeping safe. July 08, 2019 https://www.merritt.ca/2021-summer-activity-guide-now-available/
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST WHAT: MSS GRAD WALK
Juneartist-led 20, 2019 6:30 pm to Expressions 7:00 pm of Interest to create a The City of Merritt invitesWHEN: artists and/or teams to submit Sports Mural for the sideSenior of the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. to Artists with Valley demonstrated experience WHERE: Merritt Secondary High School Nicola Memorial Arenaand skill are encouraged to apply. Further information on the project and what the submission requirements are can be found on the City’s website at merritt.ca. Closing date is 4:00 PM on July 12, 2021.
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
CITY HALL HOURS EXTENDED WHAT: MSS GRAD CAR PARADE
WHEN: June 21, 2019 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
City Hall will be open for extended hours from Tuesday, WHERE: Merritt Rotary Park (2000 Block of Voght Street) to Merritt Civic Centre May 25th to Friday, July 2nd. During this time, City Hall (1950 Mamette Avenue) will be open from 10:00 am to noon and 1:30 pm to NOTE: Parking will be reserved at Rotary Park and the Church from 3:30 pm. Although the Merritt City Hall is open, residents 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm on June 22, 2019 are encouraged to send inquires via phone or email. Payments can be made online at www.merritt.ca/city-services/online-payment-options
WATERING RESTRICTIONS
6:00AM - 8:00AM and 7:00PM - 10:00PM
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Funding is limited and administered on a first-come, first-served basis. However, because of our partnership with Magnet, any application submitted # $
through our Recruitment Portal will be prioritized for review!
Community Policing Office Reopens % "
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As of Monday, July 27th, 2020 the City of Merritt Community Policing Office (
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+ , (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.
RECYCLE PLASTIC BAGS Tourism Merritt AT DEPOTS
Funding is limited and administered on a first-come, first-served basis. ToConnect book an appointment phone thewebsite 250-378-3955 orapplication email with us on of ourour new tourism and any social media.cpo@merritt.ca. However, because partnership with Magnet, submitted
Residential plastic and overwrap are will not acceptable itemsfor in review! your curbside recycling bin.. When through ourbags Recruitment Portal be prioritized
www.tourismmerritt.com • #ExploreMerritt For more information on the CPO programs visit with other materials, and piecesservices of the otherplease recyclables mix with the www.merritt.ca/community-policing plastic film. Once these materials mix together it is difficult to completely separate the recyclables from
Place these items loose in your recycling cart: plastic bags and overwrap are collected
EVEN ADDRESSES Mon/Wed/Fri ODD ADDRESSES Tues/Thurs/Sat AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS: on your respective days midnight to 4:00 AM *NO SPRINKLING SUNDAYS Effective May 1ST to September 30TH
plastic film to meet the standards of North American recycling markets.
VISIT TOURISM MERRITT VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO
� TOURISM
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
POLICE FILES
NOW OPEN amily F estaurant R
Kelowna man convicted for multiple property crime offences in Merritt On June 1, 2021, Mr. Michael Dennison was convicted of one count of possession of property obtained by crime over $10,000, two counts of possession of property obtained by crime under $10,000, and driving while prohibited.
Where cowboys come to eat
JULY 1 BREAKFAST SPECIALS
Waffles or Pancakes with Free Fruit & Cream Only $8.00 Served: 8 -11am
The charges relate to an incident that occurred in Merritt on July 17, 2020, when Mr. Dennison was arrested driving in a truck that had been stolen, in possession of several other stolen items and found to be prohibited from driving at the time. Mr. Dennison received 471 days in jail and probation for 12 months.
Commercial vehicle crash claims life, sparks blaze Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM
RCMP and the BC Coroners Service are now investigating the circumstances surrounding a collision, between two commercial vehicles, along Highway 97C that claimed a life last week near Merritt. On June 16, a short time after 9 p.m., emergency crews responded to a call for assistance from an off-duty RCMP officer who happened upon a collision between two semitractor trailer units in the westbound lanes of Highway 97C, near the Loon Lake exit. “Preliminary findings at the crash scene suggests that a B-Train semi-tractor trailer unit, fully loaded with lumber, had been parked stationary and unoccupied, while awaiting a tow truck after becoming disabled when it was struck from behind,” said Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, spokesperson for the BC RCMP in the Southeast District. “Tragically the operator of the second commercial vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene. Emergency crews were unable to extract that operator before the commercial vehicle became fully engulfed in flames.” The flames spread to the first commercial vehicle and threatened nearby vegetation. As the blaze was outside the fire protection zone, the fire was closely monitored by RCMP officers who secured the scene overnight. Merritt RCMP maintains conduct of the ongoing investigation into the fatal crash, with the added assistance of BC Highway Patrol. The BC Coroners Service was notified and has launched a concurrent fact-finding investigation into the circumstances surrounding the driver’s death. Due to the privacy of the deceased, under the Coroners Act, his name will not be released. If you witnessed this crash and have not yet spoken to police, or you have dash camera footage of the collision, you are asked to call the Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.
Quilchena Canna Company
Hours: Mon. - Sat. 8 am - 11 am, Fri., 8 am - 7 pm, Sunday Closed
443 Hwy #8 - Lower Nicola • 250-378-4579
We carry
Products
Canadian Backpacks & Hand Bags
& Ice Cream Treats
Salon Walk Ins: All day Wednesdays. Thursdays and Fridays until 7pm 250-280-4499 2776 VOGHT STREET, MERRITT HOURS OF OPERATION Monday to Saturday
Quilchena Cannabis Co.
MU
Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 5
S T BE
19+
For more information stop by Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC or call 250-378-5
420
6 • THURSDAY,
June 24, 2021
VIEWPOINT
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EDITORIAL
EDITOR: A special 2021 graduation year What a year, what a year. Saturday’s graduation car parade for MSS was the second that I have JAKE COURTEPATTE been privy to. HERALD Both, under EDITOR these crazy times, have been a welcomed sight to see to celebrate these kids. This year’s, however, had me reflecting on the fact that this class spent their entire senior year under COVID-19. It’s something that none of us (unless, Dear Reader, you are old enough to remember the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918), have ever gone through. These kids, albeit unvoluntarily, are special. So it was certainly a nice sight to see on Saturday just how celebrated they were. Senior year is such a crucial point in figuring out just what kind of person you are going to be, and it seems that even in these weird times, judging by the crowd numbers along Quilchena Avenue, that the citizens of Merritt still understand that. And judging by the smiles on the faces of the senior students slowly moving their way along, it’s appreciated. I wish you all nothing but the best. The kids are alright.
Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
MERRITT HERALD
Olivia Miles, Grade 8 Students, parents, and teachers: submit your art to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured each week! Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis. Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
Sales Representative Office Administrator Ken Couture kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com 250-378-4241 Making Advertising Work For You.
2090 Granite Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241 Fax (250) 378-6818
Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher.
This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
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OPINION
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 7
Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com
From the Herald archives: June, 1979
SURVEYS UNDERWAY FOR COQ. Two Department of Highways survey crews are currently working between Brodie and Kingsvale, & Kingsvale and Merritt surveying for the Coquihalla Highway. Al Smith, Dept, of Highways manager of designs and surveys said the bulk of the work would be finished this summer, but the design would take “a year at least, maybe two, depending on the soils information.”
LETTERS POLICY The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.
Jasmine Torgerson, Grade 3 John Isaac
250-378-1586
Johnisaac@telus.net
www.realestatemerritt.com
Ph: 250-378-6181 F: 250-378-6184
www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC
M E R R I T T
2875 TELEMON PLACE New roof in 2019 as well as new vinyl siding on addition. New vinyl plank and vinyl flooring in most rooms. Total of 4 bedrooms plus storage room and large entry with laundry at one end. Ramp to front door for easy access. There are two storage sheds and a small carport at back of home. Located on cul de sac street this single wide with addition sits on its own lot. Plenty of parking space including for R.V. $248,900
8 • THURSDAY,
June 24, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
“Near normal” return to school expected for September
see a return to normal timetabling in the school system. “B.C. is one of the few jurisdictions that has kept schools open all year despite the pandemic, thanks to the enormous
A return to the classroom full-time is on the horizon for next school year.
Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM With the classes of 2021 now going through graduation, British Columbia is already considering how the next school year will look in September. Minister of Education in BC Jennifer Whiteside
Luckiest Store
said on the morning of June 17 that the school day should be “near normal” come the fall, including the elimination of the cohort system for kindergarten students to grade twelves. Research has shown that schools have not been significant sources of COVID-19 transmission.
Alongside the high vaccination rates throughout the province, it was determined that cohorts will no longer be necessary. More than 50% of kids aged 12-17 in BC have now received their first vaccine dose. These changes should
Canco Merritt
collective efforts of everyone in the K-12 education system, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to them all,” said Whiteside. “We will continue to work with the experts in the provincial health office and our provincial K-12 educa-
tion steering committee job adapting to the chalthroughout the summer to lenges we all faced,” said finalize plans and guideDr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s lines to ensure students provincial health officer. and staff are safe for the “Now, as we transition next school year.” to a new phase and conSports, extracurricular tinue with immunizations activities, and drama prothroughout the province, grams are all expected to students and educareturn by September. tors can look forward to In-person classes will returning to a school enviall be full-time. However, ronment that will be much similar to other years, closer to what they are online learning programs accustomed to.” will still be available for students. Guidance on wearing masks Improving the lives of people within with hearing loss in school setMerritt for the past 15 years tings will be determined Dedicated care throughout by a professional the summer. “This Audiologist. Carolyn Palaga, MSc, Aud (C) was a very different Merritt Hearing Clinic school A division of Carolyn Palaga Audiology Services Ltd. year for Authorized by: everyone, Call Monday - Friday WCB and school First Canadian Health communities have Veterans Affairs done an Registered under 2076A Granite Avenue, Merritt exemplary (Located at Nicola Valley Chiropractic) the Hearing Aid Act (B.C.)
315-9688
Merritt Sew Valley Now Offering Sewing Classes
in town!
GAS STATION/PROPANE/ CONVENIENCE STORE/ LOTTERY WE’VE HAD SOME LARGE WINNERS RECENTLY: $7,500., $10,000., $6,000 x 2
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Our step by step instructions make it easy for you to dip your toes into sewing. In the class we will help you cut the fabric to the patterns dimensions, this will insure a great insisted product. Then start sewing under the direction of Merritt Sew Valley. Perfect for beginners or someone who has not sewn in a long time. Call to sign up.
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June 24, 2021
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Disc golf course coming to Bench Park Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Merrittonians will soon have a new option for outdoor recreation with the installation of a Disc Golf course at Bench Park. Sky McKeown, Director of Recreation and Facilities, made a presentation to council regarding the location and the installation of the course, which will initially feature nine bases and five baskets. “If everything goes well, we’re looking at getting volunteers out this Saturday, volunteers and members of the newly formed Nicola Valley Disc Golf Association and we are looking at getting it up and running,” explained Sky McKeown. Also helping with the set up and technical aspects of the course will be a handful of National Champion disc golf players from Kamloops, who also assisted McKeown in selecting a location for Merritt’s course. Three possible locations around town were evaluated, with Bench Park being selected as the most suitable. “… the Bench Park with its natural settings would be the hands down most ideal spot for this disc golf location to be at,” said McKeown. Bench Park is located near Bench Elementary school, and is already home to a tennis court and a rink for floor hockey which is occasionally flooded in the winter to be used as an outdoor skating rink. McKeown said that there had been much interest in the sport in the community, and that he had
received requests from people to have a course placed somewhere within the city. “There’re a lot of people who have contacted the Recreation Department and a lot of people who have contacted me personally saying this is a great sport with minimal cost, minimal impact on the environment, why are we not doing this in Merritt?” said McKeown. “And some opportunities came up to make something like that happen.” That opportunity came in the form of a generous cash donation from a filming company that recently spent a week in Merritt. “In order for this project to come to fruition a donation was made by the filming company that came in and filmed The Good Doctor,” said McKeown. “That company stepped up with a grant and we’re able to make some purchases against that grant to make this happen.” This donation will be used to cover the costs of signage and the rental of the installation equipment, ongoing maintenance and cost is expected to be handled mainly by the Nicola Valley Disc Golf Association. “… a substantial donation of time and sweat equity is involved,” reads the report to council. “The NVDGA will be putting out information on membership options and costs, the location of the five-hole course, and dates and times of the work parties needed to create and maintain the course.” The burden on City
See ‘COUNCILLOR’ Page 18
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Merrittonian accepts postsecondary award Principal Karen Goetz, the staff of the Kengard Learning Centre, SCIDES P.A.C., and CLC P.A.C. would like to congratulate…
2021 KLC GRADUATES
Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM A Merrittonian walked down the virtual post-secondary aisle on June 17 with some extra hardware. Erin Thomsen graduated from Thompson Rivers University, while also granted the TRU Medal in Natural Science. She received the W.H. Stewart Memorial Scholarship, Barbara and Jack Gregson Memorial Award, the TRU Foundation Undergraduate Achievement Scholarship and the Association of BC Forest Professionals Award. “My first year of university I didn’t even know that NRS was a program,” said Thomsen, who took general sciences in her first year. She was well versed in the natural world, born and raised in Merritt. Her dad was a forester, and her mom worked for the vet clinic and in a flower shop. “Exploring the world around our cabin, I alwaus knew I wanted to do something outdoors.” Thomsen said that it was probably one of the best decisions that she has made. “It’s not just forestry based, you learn about all aspects of the natural world, from insects, to soil, to water systems. We also learn about conflict resolution and policies. It’s a great program for
pulling together different aspects of the environment and understanding how humans can impact many aspects with small changes.” During her program, Erin conducted a study on deep ripping timber cut blocks before replanting, to see how this method of mechanically loosening the soil during site preparation impacts the growth rate and harvest rotation time of lodgepole pine trees. Her days in the field vary depending on the time of year. Recently, Thomsen finished planting in the area of the Elephant Hill wildfire, where she was working on monitoring the quality of planted seedlings. “I could also work on forest pest monitoring, block layout for future planting or site preparation blocks, or FREP (Forest and Range Evaluation Program). As the summer goes on I am sure I will be introduced to new projects as well.” Thinking back on her education, Thomsen said that she would like to thank her teachers that helped and supported her throughout her grade school education. “They know who they are and I would not be where I am today without them and for their support I will be eternally grateful. Merritt will always have a special place in my heart and will always be one of my homes no matter where I live.”
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Brad Yakimchuk
250-378-7392
250-315-3043 1750 BLAIR STREET
1595 CHESTNUT AVE
1610 FIR AVE
1928 SAGE PLACE
NEW 2220 sq.ft. custom built rancher, move-in ready, with lots of extras. 3 bedrms 2 baths, open kitchen with large center island, living rm with gas F/P, large laundry room. Manicured yard, totally landscaped with water feature, sitting area & flower beds.
#3269
$699,900
Karen Yakimchuk 250-315-3076
Personal Real Estate Corporation
2380 NICOLA AVE.
Approx. 40 acres in Sunshine Valley, just 15 minutes west of Merritt. Excellent flat building site with view of the valley. Great area for horseback riding, hiking, & more. Perfect property for your private estate
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.
#3147
#3197
D
SOL
Great investment property of up and down duplex, close to shopping. 3 bedrms up half duplex and 2 bedroom half duplex down that has had a reno. Has a carport and detached shop. Both units currently rented.
#3281
2076 COLDWATER AVE
LOT 7, PETIT CREEK RD
$459,000
1555 COWAN WAY
Spectacular family home with 3 bedrms, 2 baths, gas F/P in living room, plus legal 2 bedroom suite on ground level with separate entrance. Very private fenced yard with mature landscaping.
#3263
$599,900
976 ROUNDHOUSE DR
Spectacular river view from this 3 bedrm, 3 bath rancher with walkout bsmt, under construction. Open concept plan with 9 ft ceilings, vinyl plank flooring & carpet throughout. Large living rm with gas F/P. 2-5-10 yr Warranty. GST applicable. $4,000 appliance pkg & landscaping included
#3266
$699,900
1252 HOUSTON STREET
369,900+GST
FOR LEASE
6445 MONCK PARK RD
2845 NEILSON ST
With brilliant panoramic views of stunning Nicola Lake, this 1.05 acre property is your destination for water sports, hiking & outdoor fun. Foundation already in. Water & sewer not connected. Build your summer paradise here!
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.
D
SOL Nicely finished rancher with 3 bedrms 2 baths and a full unfinished basement. Has had recent renos of new roof & windows, kitchen & bathrooms in 2016. Has 20x18 garage/ workshop. Close to schools & shopping.
Under constrction, 1390 sq.ft. rancher with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large open concept kitchen, dining & living room. Comes with $4,000 appliance pkg and 2-5-10 yr Warranty & central A/C. 2 car garage. GSt applies.
Lovely 950 sq.ft. 2 bedrm home in Brookmere on half acre lot. Has a 750 sq.ft. shop with bathrm and office, 3 lean to’s and plenty of RV parking. Well has 50 gpm, septic upgraded in 2009. Just 10 mins. South of Exit 256 on Coquihalla & 30 mins. from Merritt.
Great investment property! 3 bedroom 2 bath property currently rented to good long term tenants. Has had some new flooring, paint & kitchen cabinets over past few years. Two car carport, fenced yard with workshop in ba
#3273
#3268
#3272
#3270
$465,000
$549,900
$389,000
$249,000
#3276
$204,900
#3264
$1,650,000.
2770 PEREGRINE WAY
2760 PEREGRINE WAY
2731 EAGLE CRESCENT
2718 EAGLE CRESCENT
2288 BURGESS AVE
1129 MIDDAY VALLEY RD
Spacious new home with open concept floor plan, spectacular views & high quality finishing. 2 bedrms up, master on the main & 2 more down, 4 baths & full unfin. Bsmt. New Home Warranty. Double garage
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
Build your dream home on this 10,280 sq.ft. view lot. New homes being built in this very desirable area on the Bench. South facing sunny slope. Building scheme in place. Water, sewer and power at lot line.
South facing sunny sloped lot of 6706 sq.ft. All services underground. Building scheme on all lots in the development. Water, sewer and power at lot line. New homes being in this very desirable area on the Bench.
2 acre property with R2 zoning in process of being changed to M-1 zoning (Light Industrial). City services at the road. Located close to truck route. Call for more details
#3278
#3277
#3274
A rare waterfront lot of 0.94 acres waiting for development with over 50 metres of river frontage, not subdividable. In neighbourhood of high end custom homes. Property has recently been built up to a safe building height.
#3275
#3267
#3252
$749,9000 + GST
$749,900
$159,000
$149,000
$249,999
$400,000
2839 CRANNA CRESCENT
1801 QUILCHENA AVE
#125, 1401 NICOLA AVE.
390 COYLE PLACE
1926 QUILCHENA AVE
4 bedrm, 3 bath executive rancher with walkout bsmt and panoramic views. Open concept design kitchen with massive island & S/S appliances. Living rm with gas F/P & surround sound speakers. Has 2 bedrm unfinished suite in bsmt with separate entrance. 3 car garage.
Great location of this 3 bedrm 2 bath on the main floor home plus 2 bedrm inlaw suite in basement, on private lot that backs onto hillside. Newer paint, flooring, some bathrm upgrade & kitchen cabinets. Fenced backyard with room for garag
1288 sq.ft. rancher in good area of downtown, has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and within walking distance to shopping and amenities. Currently rented.
Two bedroom mobile with fenced yard & storage shed. Comes with fridge, stove, washer/dryer and has had electrical upgrade. Laminate flooring in living room & main bedroom. Currently tenanted
Riverfront property in nice Lower Nicola location on approx. 2 acres with great shop with 3 phase power supply. Comes with unfinished rancher of 1686 sq.ft. House is framed and with roof. Home plans available. Septic is installed.
Established & well maintained Dry Cleaning and Coin Laundry, a turnkey business. 3200 sq.ft. concrete block building with steel truss roof with possibility of expansion to include living quarters. Great opportunity for a good family business.
#3265
#3271
#3279
#3280
#3208
#3238
2700 EAGLE CRES.
D
SOL
$799,900
$469,000
$269,900
$55,000
740 & 780 KANE VALLEY RD
$450,000
$495,000
6377 MONCK PARK ROAD
NEW FULL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR TENANT ONLY PLACEMENT We can assist you in renting your investment DEANNA Licensed Property Manager
RICK Licensed Property Manager
250-315-0000
www.merrittpropertymanagement.ca
20 acres of 2 titles with 3 bedrm 2 bath rancher with heated workshop & other outbldgs. In desirable area of recreation with lakes & cross country skiing. Just 25 mins. South of Merritt & 5 mins. Off Coquihalla. Has seasonal creek & backs onto Crown land.
#3258
movingrealestate.c21.ca
•
$1,299,000 378-6166
•
Spectacular Nicola Lake view home. This open concept rancher with a walkout bsmt features rock F/P in huge living room with large windows and views of the lake. Large island in gourmet kitchen, 2 bedrms up and 2 down. Master bedrm has 5 pce ensuite & W/I closet. The walkout bsmt has large games rm, 2 bedrms & storage. You’ll enjoy the sprawling covered deck, raised garden beds and detached garage plus room for RV parking.
#3282
$1,075,000
movingrealestate.c21.ca
14 • THURSDAY,
June 24, 2021
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Food Bank volunteer remains stranded Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM
Wasim Al Nassan has been stranded in a red tape purgatory for more than a year, after arriving in Merritt as a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) hopeful in March of 2020. It was only after he was in Canada that he found out that the PNP interview was cancelled. His attempts to return home were thwarted by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw overseas flights – including his own – cancelled. This left Al Nassan a man without a country, as he was not a Canadian citizen and could not return to Saudi Arabia, where his family had gone to flee the Syrian regime. “Meanwhile he’s here, his family’s visas have expired, and they’re living in Saudi Arabia in hiding,” said Derlanda Hewton, General Manager of the Nicola Valley Food Bank where Al Nassan has been volunteering since soon after his arrival in Merritt, contributing more than 1,155 volunteer hours. Al Nassan is in a difficult situation. Although he applied for refugee status after discovering he would not be able to pursue the PNP immigration route, he has not been given an appointment, meaning he is not an official refugee, immigrant or Canadian citizen. For this reason, he cannot bring his family from Saudi Arabia to join him, and as their visas expired along with Al Nassan’s in December, they are now at risk of being deported back to Syria should they be discovered. “That would not be an option for us because I am wanted by the regime,” explained Al Nassan. “Many years since the revolution started in Syria, I’m against the regime and I post many times videos, live videos of protest for the people of Syria. Back there, they are waiting for me.” If sent back to Syria, both Al Nassan and his wife will ‘disappear’, never to be heard from again. His children would likely be held, assaulted, and then released into the care of their uncle. Al Nassan’s brother and nephew have already been interrogated by the regime, in an effort to coerce his See ‘VOLUNTEERS’ Page 15
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Volunteers going to bat for one of their own
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 15
stay useless in this life, doing nothing I just need to keep my body moving,” said Al Nassan. “It’s hard for a human being to have no work, no income, this makes life harder. And on the other hand, there is the family overseas and they are waiting for your support. Since they are hiding, they don’t have any rights for education or health or anything. When they go to get groceries, they go at midnight to avoid anybody seeing them or any checkpoints to ask them where is your ID?” Because they have no papers and are living in hiding, his children have been unable to attend school for more than a year, and cannot receive medical attention unless they are able to bribe a doctor with cash. His family has been able to communicate with him electronically, and to ask whether he has made any progress to enable them to join him in Canada. “They just sent him a video of how much they miss him, and it’s heartbreaking,” said Hewton. See ‘PETITION’ Page 17 “Our families have become close with theirs and we
Melody Simon
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“Your Merritt Real Estate Professional” 1898 DOUGLAS STREET Wasim Al Nassan (second from the left) Photo submitted
From Page 14 return. In order to make it possible for Al Nassan to stay in the country, Hewton is asking the community to sign a letter in support of Al Nassan’s immigration. “We just want the process started… it should only take three weeks from when someone claims refugee status and it’s been seven months,” said Hewton, who noted Al Nassan has been invaluable to the Food Bank, even being awarded a ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award. “He’s gone through all his savings; he’s supporting himself here and his family at home with those savings.” Al Nassan made it clear he wasn’t looking for a handout, and wants no money, only the support of the community, which can then be taken to the MP and others with the influence to draw attention to his plight. “That is the reason I’m volunteering here (at the Food Bank) I don’t want to
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16 • THURSDAY,
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June 24, 2021
Vote for your favourite business.
2021
People’s Choice
NEW CATEGORIES ADDED FOR 2021 MERRITT HERALD
Awards IT’S TIME TO CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE IN THE NICOLA VALLEY
PEOPLE’S CHOICE PEOPLE’S CHOICE
AWARDS AWARDS 2018
2019 2021
It’s time for people to make their choice. Indicate your top picks for the Merritt Herald People’s Choice Awards on this entry sheet, or using our online ballot form at https://www.merrittherald.com/peoples-choice-2021/
VOTE ONLINE!
https://www.merrittherald.com/ peoples-choice-2021/
Only original newspaper ballots and online entries will be accepted. No mechanical reproductions allowed. Employees of Merritt Herald and their immediate families are not eligible. All ballots must be received or entered online by no later than Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at noon PST. Some restrictions and conditions apply.
Name: Address: City:
Email:
BUSINESS Cannabis Dispensary ____________________________ Tattoo Studio ___________________________________ Seniors Home __________________________________ Landscaping Company ___________________________ Plumbing Company ______________________________ Auto Parts Store ________________________________ Auto Repair Shop _______________________________ Clothing Store __________________________________ Cold Beer Wine / Liquor Store ____________________ Convenience Store ______________________________ Daycare ________________________________________ Dog Groomer ___________________________________ Fitness Facility __________________________________ Gas Station ____________________________________ Grocery Store ___________________________________ Spa ___________________________________________ Salon __________________________________________ Hotel / Motel ___________________________________ Insurance Office ________________________________ Logging Company _______________________________ Unique Business ________________________________ Building Supply Company _________________________ Tire Shop ______________________________________ Accountant / Bookkeeper ________________________ Bank __________________________________________ Storage Facility _________________________________ Catering _______________________________________ Restaurant _____________________________________ Pub ___________________________________________
Telephone: Massage Office _________________________________ Pharmacy ______________________________________ Real Estate Company ____________________________ Optical Business ________________________________ Building Contractor Company _____________________ Electrical Company ______________________________ Welding Company _______________________________ Coffee Shop ____________________________________ Agricultural/Farm Business _______________________ Home Based Business ___________________________ PEOPLE AND PLACES (Include Name & Business Name) Local Artist _____________________________________ Dentist ________________________________________ Doctor _________________________________________ Coach _________________________________________ Hair Dresser____________________________________ Nail Technician _________________________________ Business Owner ________________________________ Club Organization _______________________________ Cook __________________________________________ Mechanic ______________________________________ Manager _______________________________________ Personal Trainer ________________________________ Photographer ___________________________________ Realtor ________________________________________ Receptionist ____________________________________ Salesperson ____________________________________ Server _________________________________________ Local Band/Musician ____________________________
Select who your top choices are in at least 25% of the total categories. Contest closes Wednesday, August 25 at noon. One entry per household per week. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Teacher/Educator (Elementary School) _____________ Teacher/Educator (High School) ___________________ Butcher ________________________________________ Veterinarian (name of vet) ________________________ Volunteer ______________________________________ Customer Service _______________________________ Sports Organization _____________________________ Non Profit Organization __________________________ Best Local Event ________________________________ Fundraising Event _______________________________ FOOD AND BEVERAGE Breakfast ______________________________________ Burger _________________________________________ Chinese Food ___________________________________ Steak _________________________________________ Pizza __________________________________________ Soup __________________________________________ Wings _________________________________________ Dessert ________________________________________ Sushi __________________________________________ Sandwich ______________________________________ TOP BUSINESSES Business Of The Year ____________________________ Business Overall (Under 10 Employees) ____________ _______________________________________________ Business Overall (Over 10 Employees) _____________ New Business (1 year or less in business)__________ _______________________________________________
VOTE ONLINE at https://www.merrittherald.com/peoples-choice-2021/ Physical ballots can be dropped off at the Merritt Herald office, 2090 Granite Avenue, Merritt, BC
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 17
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Petition circulating for stuck immigrant From Page 15 said, hopefully this will be the last Father’s Day that you’re separated. We need to do what we can as a community to shed light on his situation and get the government to help us.” Al Nassan is hopeful that his family will be able to start a new life in Canada, with the support of Merrittonians. “To be part of this community and to grow together,” said Al Nassan. “When I came here the first time, to Merritt, after usually living in big cities, and I know the kind of a life in big cities, I decided to come to a smaller city to start up… this was my dream and my plan.” “Every avenue he takes, he hits a roadblock,” Hewton said, explaining that Al Nassan has an immigration lawyer and that he planned for many years with a lawyer and immigration consultants in Saudi Arabia. In his precious business, working for large grocery chains, Al Nassan was able to travel extensively, to several different countries. None, he proclaims, are as attractive as Canada. “I find Canada the best place to live,” said Al Nassan. “They don’t segregate within the people, all the people are the same, all the people have the same rights.” Al Nassan hopes that being reminded of his story will encourage people to sign the letter at the Food Bank and show their support. “I don’t want to bother anyone, but it’s not in my hands,” said Al Nassan, ever humble. “I am stuck in limbo; I don’t know what should I do? I’m looking for a future for my kids, for me.”
HAVE A JOB OFFER? NEED HELP WITH JOB STARTS?
HAPPY RETIREMENT School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) would like to acknowledge and congratulate the following retirees for the 2020 / 2021 school year:
Cheryl Fex Kitty Lynch Marianne Hardy MarieAnne Roche Judy Lee Lori Yurkowski Carolyn Barquest Dwight Goetz Carol Dirksen Brian Cargnelli Ken Johnston Donna Clairmont Brent Bowden Bernice Mingay Rod Miller
On behalf of the Board, thank you all for your service to the students and to the District.
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Tel: 250-378-5151 • Email: info-merritt@workbc.ca @workbcmerritt
This program is funded by the Government of Canada
Learn more at bchydro.com/eskorder
18 • THURSDAY,
SPORTS
June 24, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com.
Merritt riders hit the trails for Crown ride
Though still ongoing, this year’s Merritt crown race saw riders come out in droves. Darch Oborne CONTRIBUTOR
Merritt Crown organizers Darch and James Oborne are pleased with the results of the fourth
annual Merritt Crown mountain bike race held Saturday; that is; the virtual race will still be ridden by registered racers until the July 5 cut-off. But racers came from many parts of British Columbia to ride the 120-kilometres of great Merritt trails; and 100% were very pleased with the trails and the weather - a perfect day. 80 racers participated on Saturday; 36 in the Crown; 24 in the Tiara (60-kilometres); and 20 in the relay. James also organized race venues in five
other BC locations to further the COVID-19 goals of travel reduction. “We had 190 registrants this year, and when we’re back to normal next June, we’re planning for 400,” said James. “Merritt is on the mountain biking map now, and riders want to come and ride and visit our community, and they really appreciate the warm hospitality of our guest services businesses’ said Darch. Ride On!
The Breathe Bikes Bellas outside of the Breathe Bikes shop before Saturday’s Merritt Crown race (L-R): Jessie Strang, Angela Russell, Jill Starrs, Amy Norgaard Melissa Mytruck. Photo submitted
Councillor Luck volunteers to cover basket cost From Page 10 employees is expected to be minimal, with the installation of just one additional trash can at the site which would fall under the City’s responsibilities for upkeep. Houses surrounding the course are nine to 14 metres away from the fairway, and they are not likely to be impacted by the course or the discs. Large boulders will be placed to define a parking area, which will prevent any disruptions in local traffic or private driveways. “This has been one of the most under-utilized parks that the city has,” said City of Merritt CAO Sean Smith. Should an expanded course be decided upon in future, it could potentially be located in the North Bench development or elsewhere in town. The current location at Bench Park will allow for the installation of a nine-hole course, although there are currently only five baskets purchased. “With further fundraising, the group’s already chomping at the bit to get another four baskets ordered and have them in place,” said McKeown. Councillor Luck spoke on the subject, noting it was wonderful to see the collaboration between the City and community members, and to see them accomplish the establishment of the course. Luck questioned the cost of the baskets, which McKeown reported were in the ballpark of $2400 for all five, or roughly $480 per basket. “It’s a real shame not to see it completed at nine, and I’d just like to volunteer to buy one of the four remaining baskets,” said Luck. “I’d love to see it filled out to nine, so I’ll volunteer to pay for one of the baskets.” A work party will meet at the park on June 26 to construct the course, with an opening date for play to be announced at a later date.
Cents receive positive feedback to expand beer garden
Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM The Cents are looking to expand the beer garden to the entirety of the NVMA. Current President Guy Lanki asked for City Council’s support at the last Council meeting, and was met with plenty of it. The Cents are the only team within the BCHL that restricts the area in which those drinking adult beverages can sit. Lanki brought up the fact that the beer garden is in the farthest corner of the rink, and farthest away from the bathrooms. “It’s cold in the corner, and people with families won’t even go there because then they have to leave their kids somewhere else,” said Lanki. Lanki told Council that he has asked for input from people all around town, and said that the idea received “overwhelming support.” “They thought that we would get even more of a fanbase, and that more people would attend. It would be better for gener-
ating revenue.” Though he does not know specific numbers, Lanki thinks that the season that just past may be the first time in about a decade that the Cents will be in the green instead of the red. “We’d like to continue that trend, to become a healthier, viable, financial entity of the BC hockey league.” Though Council had questions about how the concept would play out, the reaction was very positive. Councillor Travis Fehr inquired if Lanki and his team had spoken with other teams throughout the BCHL that already utilized the open alcohol system. “There’s been no major incidents that they can recall,” said Lanki about speaking with other presidents around the league, including Vernon, Cranbrook, Prince George. and Coquitlam. “It’s been lucrative for them, to help them with their bills and stuff like that.” From a staff perspective, Merritt CAO
Sean Smith inquired about the application needed to go to the provincial government for an expanded liquor license. The application has not been made as of yet, because the Cents wanted to get the approval from the City of Merritt first, according to Lanki. “I can say that’s excellent,” said Smith. “And I think from a staff perspective, I don’t think there is going to be any overarching concern. “If that brings more people in, I think that’s a great idea.” The Cents have already reached out to the local RCMP, with the RCMP ready to send out a letter to the team with any tips and regulations they would like to see imposed. If the idea was to go ahead, it would be on a one-season trial basis. The Cents’ Board would review the public’s reaction at every meeting and make decisions from there on if it would be a permanent change.
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 19
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.
When thinking of a tech and digital art hot spot, you may think of major cities such as Vancouver and Toronto. Amrit Ahuja, however, is a locally based artist using just those means to make a name for himself. Born and raised in Merritt, Ahuja has been pursuing a career in the arts field as a CGI Artist and Creative director for the past nine years, although that wasn’t what he pictured himself doing originally. “It was a difficult decision to make, but I dropped out of university to initially pursue dance, as I was an avid self-taught dancer throughout high school,” said Ahuja, who attended university for just one year before taking
the leap out of conventional education and into the arts. “I felt that my purpose in life was to be in a creative field. I landed my first gig at Bass Coast, their first year in Merritt, and this led to me dancing at many other festivals over the span of two to three years.” It was while he was following the festival circuit that he began to develop a new interest. “Being active in these festivals sparked a curiosity in music performance, leading me onto my next art venture: Music Production and Audio Engineering,” said Ahuja. “I pursued this for several years, being a resident DJ in Kelowna nightclubs, festivals etc. and I still utilise
these skills in my visuals by providing my own music and sound effects. I began working locally at Merritt’s Open Mic’s as a sound tech every Friday night, while making my own music on the side.” While active in this part of his career, Ahuja discovered that he also enjoyed directing his fellow musicians with their visuals, often providing artists with advice on album art, fashion, and photography or video direction. “Eventually, I began teaching myself the skills necessary to provide these services to help accompany my direction for other artists,” said Ahuja, who began posting his visual work to the popular social media app, Instagram, in
2019. It was on Instagram that he saw some early success, with a lyric video being reposted by a major UK artist. “I began to gain momentum, and gained the attention of other major artists such as Kane Brown, Skepta, and even having major rapper Travis Scott’s team reach out,” said Ahuja. “I found that I was building a career solely through the power of social media, being completely remote from any of the clients I was working with. 100% of my clients have been through Instagram.” This exposure has led to an increase in Ahuja’s popularity and reputation, gaining him the attention of some of the industry’s heavy hitters, who soon reached out with a once in a lifetime opportunity for an artist still relatively new to the scene. “With the traction I’ve gained on Instagram by posting my 3D visuals, I discovered that I was in the eyes of a few management teams and visual producers, including Skepta’s management and a producer for Nike,”
explained Ahuja. “Skepta, one of the UK’s most prominent rappers, was working on a new collaboration with Nike, and I was reached out to by his team and Nike to be a part of the campaign. They expressed their love for my work, and felt that I would be a great fit for creating the title and logo animation for the main advertisement.” Ahuja threw himself into the project, which took place over the span of two to three weeks. “It was an experience I’ll never forget,” said Ahuja. “The work had to remain confidential until release, so I had to contain my excitement over the time we were working. After several iterations, we concluded on a final, and the final campaign was rolled out shortly after.” Once released, Ahuja discovered that his design, featuring Nike’s shoes and Skepta, had been put on display at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium’s screen in North London, a major accomplishment for Merritt’s hometown artist. “I’ve had several
opportunities present themselves since,” said Ahuja. “It’s been amazing to think that I was working on this with a team halfway across the world, and I’m excited to continue working with such teams.” Ahuja has also branched into NFTs (Non-fungible tokens), a trend taking the art world by storm. “I’ve also recently sold my art digitally through a new movement called NFTs, where digital art is sold to col-
Fri. June 25
Sat. June 26
Sun. June 27
Mainly Sunny High 29˚C Low: 15˚C
Sunny High: 33˚C Low: 17˚C
Sunny High:38˚C Low: 20˚C
Sunny High: 38˚C Low: 20˚C
Mon. June 28
Sunny High:27˚C Low: 20˚C
his business solely through Twitter. To follow Amrit’s work and keep up with his latest projects, you can find him on Instagram at @amritahujaa or on Twitter at the same tag.
CONTAIN-IT STORAGE
Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■
1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000
THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church
2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Baptist Church
Sunday service (indoors), 10 am. Phone (250)378-2464 for more info and for prayer support.
Merritt Lutheran Fellowship
in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.
St. Michael’s Anglican Church
1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.
Trinity United Church
Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time 2nd & 4th Sundays/ Sunday School (K-Gr. 4) - 10 am
Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268
Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
7 Day Weather Forecast for Merritt, BC - Thursday, June 24 - Wednesday, June 30, 2021 Thurs. June 24
lectors in exchange for crypto currency, an immensely unique experience and opportunity for artists to build careers through the internet,” explained Ahuja, who operates this portion of
Tues. June 29
Wed. June 30
Mainly Sunny High: 36˚C Low: 18˚C
Mainly Sunny High: 33˚C Low: 19˚C
For all your landscaping needs call the professionals at
Serving Merritt with Excellence for over 28 yrs tlcpond1@telus.net
250-378-4166
20 • THURSDAY,
www.merrittherald.com
June 24, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS
Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com In Memoriams
In Memoriams
In Memoriams
In memory of Tony Cavaliere Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.
Few of us are prepared to face a life-threatening illness or the loss of a loved one. Hospice provides support services that provide comfort, meaning, dignity and hope.
Love you Sue and family: Terry, George, Jansen, Miranda, Luc, Addy, Valerie &Chloee Obituaries
Obituaries
MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY
July 1,1942 - June 28, 2013
Obituaries
Obituaries
Obituaries
www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
P: 250-280-1701
Garage Sales Fall Fair Community Yard Sale. May.15 & 29 June. 12 & 26 July. 10 & 24 August. 07 & 21 September. 11 & 25 9-2 pm each day Donations again are gratefully accepted, they can preferably be brought to the building during the Giant Sales or please call Clifford at 250-378-2303 for more information.
March 10, 1936 – June 16, 2021 Joe passed away peacefully on June 16 surrounded by his family. Joe was predeceased by his parents Thale and Grietje (neeHilbolling), his two sisters Hendrika (Ron) and Zwaantje (Willem) and nephews Thale Kwant and Roulof (Ida) Kwant. Joe is survived by his 2 sons John (Jeff) and Greg (Julia), his grandchildren Isabel and Alexandra, niece Rita (Ed) Fransen-Morris and nephew Roy Fransen. Joe was born on March 10, 1936 in the community of Anloo – Netherlands and was the youngest of 3 children. The family was fortunate to survive WWII while residing in the Netherlands and Joe was 8 when the war ended. The family immigrated to Canada on May 03, 1954 and eventually settled in Merritt. Joe’s oldest sister, Zwaantje married 2 ½ weeks earlier and remained in the Netherlands to start a family of her own. Although the family had aspirations of farming, both Joe and his father found long careers in the forestry and lumber industry, mainly working in local sawmills. Joe became a lumber grader and worked until he suffered a life changing heart attack in his 50’s. The family lived next door to Rob and Wanda Gush, who raised 7 children and both families bonded, shared their lives together, and built relationships that still remain strong through generations. On May 25, 1962 Joe married Jill Varney, built a home and raised a family. Joe and Jill parted ways in 2001. Joe married 2 more times and later spent the last several years as a single man in Merritt. As a young man in Holland, Joe had a passion for soccer and loved to fish and garden. While raising a family, Joe successfully coached youth soccer for a number of years. Camping became a part of life and the family spent most weekends along the shorelines of the local lakes. Lundbom Lake was a family favorite. Joe later found a love for curling and golf and he enjoyed both sports until he physically couldn’t. He was fortunate enough to experience 3 ‘hole in ones’. Joe also enjoyed watching sports and mostly watching his grandchildren take part in sporting, musical and school activities. The family would like to thank the staff at Nicola Meadows who tirelessly gave Joe the support he required while he resided there. We would also like to thank the medical professionals in Merritt and the staff at the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre. A celebration of Joe’s life will be scheduled at a later date and be held at the Crossroads Community Church. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary.
@MerrittHerald @KamThisWeek
TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS
Moving Sale Sat.June 26.9am to 2pm 1898 Douglas Street
Business For Sale
Johannes (Joe) van Rossum
Follow us
Business For Sale
Business For Sale
Merritt Funeral Chapel
A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
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 Announcements
Announcements
Looking for a well established business with over 28 yrs. behind them, with a steady, committed clientele behind them, then TLC is the business for you. TLC has been creating beautiful landscape design and installation, weekly maintenance for residential and commercial clients, providing such services as: Dethatching - Aerating - Irrigation Installation - Tree, Shrub and Hedge Trimming - Patio pavers -Stone work, Beautiful ponds and water features . The sale of this company will include: 3 antique trucks 1953, 1957 and a 1948 GMC, 990 John Deer tractor, 1 hauling trailer, 1 Ditch witch trencher, Sod Cutter, Billy goat Vacuum, 1 Aerator, 2 Dethatching, 1 lrg Exmark walk behind, 3 Arien Mowers, 2 hedge trimmers, 2 Stihl weed eaters, 2 lrg backpack blowers.
Revenue over $300,000 with Potential Growth expansion SELLER WILL TRAIN.... Reason for sale retiring If you are interested in this extraordinary company and want the freedom of being your own boss, then give us a call at 250-378-4166. Employment
Employment
Employment
Library Page at the Merritt Library College of Pharmacists of British Columbia Pharmacy Licence #: 27814
GET RESULTS! Reach almost 2 million people in 95 papers for only $395/week for a 25-word text ad, or $995/week for a formatted display ad bccommunitynews.com/ advertise 1-866-669-9222
Book by province or whole country and save over 85%!
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
To advertise call 250-378-4241
The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library is seeking a part-time Page for the Merritt Library with a keen attention to detail and a strong customer service orientation. Duties include accurately re-shelving library materials and checking in materials, moving bins, boxes and carts, providing directional assistance, and supporting staff with projects and programs, paging and other basic library functions. The position is subject to the provisions of the Collective Agreement with the BC Government and Service Employees’ Union, Local 705. The position is Grid 3, which pays $16.69 - $18.54 per hour. Complete details of the position and required qualications are available on the Thompson-Nicola Regional Library website: tnrl.ca/ jobs. Posting closes June 22, 2021 @ 16:00.
Employment ads continued on next page
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 21
www.merrittherald.com Employment
Employment
Employment
Employment
Employment
Employment
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Employment
Nicola Valley Transportation Society Transit Supervisor with Administrative Duties
Intermediate Teacher Position N’Kwala is a First Nation operated independent school offering a kindergarten to grade 12 program. We are a rural school with very small class sizes, allowing for additional one-on-one support for students. N’Kwala is surrounded by rolling hills in a picturesque natural environment and is located in the beautiful Nicola Valley approximately 90 km south of Kamloops and approximately 50 km east of Merritt. If required, on-site accommodations and daycare are available for the successful candidate. Upper Nicola Band offers competitive wages and a generous benefits package. Required Qualifications: • Qualified and experienced to teach intermediate level students • Special Education training an asset • Ability to adapt or modify programs to meet the student’s special needs • Knowledge of the BC curriculum • Valid BC teaching certificate Recommended Qualifications: • Experience working in First Nations community • Experience with the Read Well and Saxon Math programs • Experience with special education programs • Experience with multi-grade classroom Salary as per the Upper Nicola Band salary scale Start date: August 30, 2021. Pro-D opportunities during the summer may be required. For further information about this role, please contact Principal, Heather Grismer at 250-350-3370 or email: principal@uppernicola.com Please send cover letter and resume to Human Resources, PO Box 3700, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8, or hr@uppernicola.com. Position closes July 26, 2021 @ 4:00 p.m. No late entries will be accepted. N’kwala School thanks all those interested but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)
FIRST NATIONS SUPPORT WORKER School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) is accepting applications for a First Nations Support Worker for Princeton (Vermilion Forks Elementary / John Allison Elementary split) for 7 hours per day, 10 months per year. The successful applicant will be responsible for providing social/emotional support, communicating with students and parents/guardians, tutoring, and cultural education. Electronic application submissions are accepted at www.sd58.bc.ca {click on Employment, Current Job Postings, (Job Code # 3051366) and follow the prompts}. Applications, including a detailed resume with a minimum of three references, will be accepted until June 30, 2021 with a start date of September 7, 2021. Please forward to: Attention: Lindsey Henderson, Manager of Human Resources School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) P.O. Box 4100, 1550 Chapman Street Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 sblonde@365.sd58.bc.ca Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.
PHARMACY ASSISTANT Black’s Pharmacy is seeking an energetic, hard working pharmacy assistant who will provide exceptional customer service. This a part time position with the possibility of working into a full time position. Pharmacy experience is an asset but not required. Apply in person with resume to Black’s Pharmacy 2037 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC
THERE’S MORE ONLINE KamloopsThisWeek.com merrittherald.com
Be a part of your community paper & comment online.
The Nicola Valley Transportation Society is seeking applications for the position of a Transit Supervisor with Administrative Duties in the City of Merritt, BC. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the transit system in the community under the direction of the Board of Directors and in cooperation with BC Transit and the City of Merritt. Duties include, but are not limited to the following: • Supervision and training of all transit operators. • Data Entry into Transit BC System for invoices, performance and bus maintenance work orders. • Information tracking as per BC Transit requirements. • Tracking bus maintenance, service and inspections as required by all governing bodies and the CVSE. • Class 4 Driver’s License or the ability to obtain as part of the position. • Ensuring that the transit system is operating under all Covid 19 requirements. The successful candidate should have excellent communication, interpersonal, leadership, coaching and conict resolution skills, the ability to work independently with the Society, employees, community and requires a cooperative working relationship with Union Representatives. Training for reporting requirement as outlined by BC Transit will be provided by their representatives. Deadline for Applications: Until position is lled Please provide your resume with references via email to: Jan Oswald, NVYS Board Chair - Email: jo-libra@ telus.net
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VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT
PRODUCTION WORKERS
• Wages: starting $20 to $25 • Steady day shift work • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train
TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1 Local steady work
CARPENTERS
• Wages: starting $35 to $45 Depends on experience Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161
Full-time or part-time Office staff required to work at a local doctor’s office. Preference given to someone with experience, but would be willing to train an applicant. Please send resume to P.O. Box 820, Merritt, B.C., V1K 1B8
ON-CALL CARRIERS WANTED
WITH THE OPPORTUNITY OF FULL TIME POSITION. • A flexible schedule • A great way to lose weight and get into shape • A great way to supplement your income • Great first
MERRITT HERALD
job - excellent opportunity to teach children the life skills for success
If anyone in your family is interested in being a paper carrier, call Ken at 250-378-4241
22 • THURSDAY, Employment
www.merrittherald.com
June 24, 2021 Employment
Employment
SUDOKU
Employment
Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting The Coldwater Indian Band is seeking an individual to fill the Education Coordinator position. The Education Coordinator is responsible for the planning, administration and coordination of Coldwater Indian Band Programs and Services and reports to the Band Administrator. This position will be working from the Merritt Office. Responsibilities and Duties Planning – Annual and Long-term Education Plan for Coldwater Indian Band, membership and as directed. Human Resource – Supervises and valuates the performance of anyone with direct reporting relations to the Department when applicable. Financial – Develops Education Program budgets in consultation with the Band Administrator and administers the budgets as approved by Chief and Council and all other associated duties. Policy – Administers the approved Post-Secondary Education Policy. Liaison and Representation – Participates as Ex-Officio when required on the Band School SAC; Represents the band in negotiating the Local Education Agreement; Attends School District 58 meetings where applicable; Liaises with Post-Secondary Institutions/Schools in support of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Policy and programs; Liaises with SD #58 re: L.E.A., F.N.A.C, and staff where applicable; Advocates for Coldwater students within School District 58 & students attending different PostSecondary Educational Institutions; Liaise with Indian Services Canada in support of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Department programs. Post-Secondary Program Administration – Administers the Post-Secondary program as per Job Description. General Education Administration – Administers all pertinent Education Program funding through Xyntax; Develop and maintain individual student confidential files; Maintains records of all Education programs, services and funding associated with this department; Keeps the Band Administrator informed of sensitive and important issues and events in relation to the operation of the Education Programs; etc. Position Qualifications • Post-Secondary Diploma (prefer minimum Business or Public Administration diploma) • OR an equivalent combination of post secondary education and directly related work experience. • Proposal writing an asset • Lifestyle consistent with the importance of the responsibilities of the position • Strong analytical and decision-making skills, tact, discretion and sound judgement • Demonstrated commitment to fiscal management • Superior communication skills, written and oral • Working knowledge of Xyntax an asset • Knowledge of Nlaka’pamux and Coldwater Community an asset • Ability to organize and manage workload • Good negotiation skills (Local Education Agreements) • Able to work independently and in a team environment • Satisfactory Criminal Records check • Valid Driver’s License and Reliable vehicle Send your resume with references and cover letter: Attn: COLDWATER INDIAN BAND H.R. COMMITTEE, c/o Band Administrator (lantoine@coldwaterband.org.) PO BOX 4600, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 Deadline for resumes ��� ���� �������� �� ���� �, 2021 @ 4:00 p.m. Only successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.
HELP WANTED IMMEDIATELY Housekeeping/Guest Service positions available. Seasonal. Great location. Above minimum wage compensation. Email your resume to: corbettlake@gmail.com
Keep your pets safe, donʻt leave them in your car during warm temperatures.
EDUCATION COORDINATOR
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.
PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE
ACROSS
1. College group 5. Small morsels of food 11.Actress Dunham 12. Puts a limit on 16. Used for baking or drying 17. Commercial 18. Zookeeper Bindi 19. Walk in one’s sleep 24. The Great Lakes State 25. Winter sport 26.Athin layer on something 27. Peacock network 28. Give birth to a lamb or kid
DOWN
1. Excessively showy 2. Put an end to 3. Blood disorder 4. Ingredient in wine 6. Made smaller 7. We 8. The Treasure State 9. __ Ekland, actress 10. Male parent 13. One hundredth of a watt (abbr.) 14. Dish of minced meat 15. Smothered laugh 20. Article 21. Atomic #12
29. “Too Scared to Cry” author 30. Nose 31. Friend 33. Country music legend Haggard 34. Curved 38. More deformed 39. Bleated 40. Set on its end 43.An aspect of Ra 44. Releasing hormone (abbr.) 45. Harsh, grating noise 49. __ Francisco
50. Common Japanese surname 51. Punish with an arbitrary penalty 53. Football position (abbr.) 54. Not in the know 56.African antelope 58. Popular tech (abbr.) 59. Baseball teams get three of them 60. Make up one’s mind 63. __ Spumante (Italian wine) 64. Martens 65. Susan and Tom are two
22. Small parrot 23. Fictional “Star Wars” planet 27. French wine grape 29. Football stat (abbr.) 30. Sound unit 31. Where you sleep 32. University of Dayton 33. Miller beer offering 34. Feel embarrassed 35. Able to be estimated 36. Commune in NW France 37. Adult female chicken 38. Intergovernmental organization 40. Archaic term for until 41. That which is not sacred
42. Sound made in speech 44. Handgun (slang) 45. Fill up again 46. Evoke or awaken 47. Beam Me Up, __! 48. Spider wasp genus 50. Headdress 51. Exclamation of surprise 52. Of I 54. Figures 55. Men’s fashion accessories 57. Indicates position 61. Megabyte 62. The Prairie State
THURSDAY, June 24, 2021 • 23
Local Business Directory ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE
MECHANIC
IS LICENSED CANNAB
HERE FOR YOU!
ICE ANK’S MECHANICAL SERV
FR
ARRANTY APPROVED OLD OR NEW WE HAVE W FOR EVERYONE MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS
enue 2026 Mamette Av
@DanAlbas
DanAlbas4COSN
Quilchena Canna Company
Toll Free: 1-800-665-8711 www.danalbas.com
MU
• Tune Ups t • Brakes • Exhaus il /O be Lu • n sio • Suspen • Shocks & Struts •Radiator Service ng Service • Air Conditioni 78-1322
nabis Co.
Quilchena Can
250-3
EXCAVATING
Gary’s Mini Excavating Service • Small Job Specialist • Dump Trailer Service • Fencing & Post Pounder • Concrete Driveways & Sidewalks • Fully Insured email: garylsedore@gmail.com
Cell: 250-315-3174 Call Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMATES: 250-378
250-378-9410
www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com
Fully Qualied Tradesmen in..
ELCOME NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS W &
Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters. Service Work & Furnace Service. Custom Sheet Metal Atlas RV Parts & Repairs
S GENERAL DENTISTTS AVAILABLE TIS ON OD TH OR T LIS SPECIA HOURS
PHONE: 250-378-4943
Call
2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC
SUITES STARTING AT $2659
• Delicious chef prepared meals for lunch, dinner and snacks with opt-in breakfast • Weekly housekeeping and linen service • Heat, electricity, telephone, internet and classic cable TV • Full access to our social and wellness programs • 24/7 pendant alert systems • Access to the Berwick About Town (BAT) Mobile car service and the Berwick Bus
60 Whiteshield Cres. S., Kamloops
@missvickispetalsandplants BC • 250-378-5575 2052B Quilchena Ave., Merritt,
250-377-7275
EXCAVATING PC - 60
Servicing Merritt, Logan Lake & area.
250-280-3478
Owner Operator since 1987
2731 Forksdale
www.dentistryatmerritt.ca
When you choose Berwick on the Park your suite comes complete with:
Comfort • Freedom Choice
appointment.
book your 250-378-4888 to Avenue, V1K 1R9
R. Dutt-DMD S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr. Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr.
RETIREMENT LIVING
FLOWER SHOP • Bouquets • Arrangements • Plants • Local Made Giftware
420
DENTIST
ting a e H & g n i b m u l Nicola P
BOOK TODAY! CARPET/UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING
19+
PLUMBING & HEATING
CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS REMOVAL
FLOOD SERVICES
BE
Call 250-378-5 na Ave., Merritt BC Unit B-1937 Quilche
-4312
CLEANING SERVICES
ST
• Excavating • Site Prep • Driveways • Concrete Demolition • Compaction • Drainage • Utility Installation • Retaining Walls • Line Locating • Concrete Cutting
COMMERCIAL / RESIDENT IAL
Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES COMFORT, CLARIT Y AND CONFIDENCE THROUGH A COMPLETE
FINANCIAL PLAN Cashflow and Insurance Planning Portfolio Management Tax and Estate Planning
! Contact Kyle for your plan today
Ext. 259 Cell Phone: 250-879-6306 • Office: 250-372-2955 vestorsgroup.com/en/kyle_schell e-mail: Kyle.schell@ig.ca • Website: http://advisor.in
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!
24 • THURSDAY,
www.merrittherald.com
June 24, 2021
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 Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt Looking to sell? Call one of our for a complete list of current listings agents to see what your home is worth. 3499 Voght St. Merritt BC • 250-378-6181 email: rlpmerit@telus.net 248,900 2499 PRIEST AVENUE
2875 TELEMON PLACE
$425,000 FOUR BAY 3,856 SQUARE FOOT SHOP WITH 600 AMP SERVICE, GAS HEATERS, OFFICE AREA AND LOADS OF ROOM TO WORK AND STORE EQUIPMENT. Each bay has good sized doors and 60 amp service. 45 foot C can at back stays.
SINGLE WIDE WITH AN ADDITION THAT PROVIDES EXTRA SPACE. NEW ROOF IN 2019 AS WELL AS NEW VINYL SIDING ON ADDITION. New vinyl plank and vinyl flooring in most rooms. Total of 4 bedrooms plus storage room
MLS# #160186
MLS#162386
JOHN ISAAC: • 250-378-1586 •email: johnisaac@telus.net
1630 BANN STREET
Managing Broker
$699,900 21-1098 HOUSTON STREET
INVESTOR’S ALERT!! RARE FULLY TENANTED REVENUE PROPERTY WITH 5 BEDROOMS AND A LARGE BONUS 2 BEDROOM LEGAL SUITE. Ideal tenants willing to stay long term Home enjoys gorgeous views in quiet family oriented neighbourhood.
$204,900
WOW! DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS AMAZING PROPERTY. TOTALLY REDONE 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH EXCEPTIONAL MOBILE HOME IN A QUIET PARK. Open concept kitchen and living great for entertaining. New high end appliances, concrete counter tops, tiled back splash and newer cabinets
MLS# 162721
MLS# 162435
TONY LUCK: • 604-217-5825 •email: tjluck@royallepage.ca
2548 CORKLE STREET
D OL
S
$369,000 1513 COLDWATER AVENUE
DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH MODULAR HOME WITH ADDITION IN LOWER NICOLA. Addition was added in 2019 and offers a spacious dining room and bedroom. Large living room is open to kitchen.
NEWRICE P
$299,000
PRICE REDUCED! CUTE AND COZY 3 BEDROOM 1 BATH RANCHER. SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH LOTS OF CABINETS Living room has large picture window making for a bright and cheery room. Updated bath. Hot water tank updated in 2019. MLS#162181
MLS# 162211 Personal Real Estate Corporation
DEBRA SCHINDLER: • 250-315-3548 •email: debbieschindler2@gmail.com
537 WILD ROSE DRIVE
$299,900
441 BARWICK AVENUE
$349,900
JUST 15 MINUTES FROM TOWN THIS 4.6 ACRE PARCEL IS THE PERFECT AREA FOR THE OUTDOORSMAN! Tons of lakes nearby for the fisherman and easy access to the outdoors. There is a shallow well in place and great building spots to capture the view.
75 X 200 FT PRIVATE LOT IN LOWER NICOLA WITH DETACHED GARAGE, HUGE FENCED GARDEN AND AMAZING PRIVATE PATIO AREA. The manufactured home & addition have been covered by a pitch roof for maximum protection and curb appeal
MLS# 162570
MLS# 162745
DENISE DESILETS: • 250-315-8395 •email: denisedesilets@royallepage.ca
452 BRENTON AVENUE
Owner/Broker
$499,000 238 ARALIA DRIVE
$399,900
ONE OF A KIND! OPPORTUNITY TO RESTORE BACK INTO A FULL DUPLEX AS PREVIOUSLY USED OR KEEP AS A LARGE HOME. This location in Lower Nicola is sought after, with 24 x 26 double car garage and a few out buildings on a large lot.
ONE LEVEL LIVING AT ITS FINEST! IMMACULATE RANCHER OPEN CONCEPT WITH LARGE KITCHEN, nice dining area with lots of windows, patio door off living room to large deck, partially fenced backyard with shed. Located in Logan Lake!
MLS#162636
MLS# 161876
CLAUDETTE EDENOSTE: • 250-280-0689 •email: claudetteedenoste@royallepage.ca
303-308 CHARTRAND AVENUE
$149,900 7 BRECCIA DRIVE
EXCELLENT LOCATION IN THE HIDDEN GEM OF LOGAN LAKE FOR THIS 1 BEDROOM UNIT LOCATED ON THE 3RD FLOOR OF A WELL MAINTAINED & QUIET BUILDING. Strata fee includes heat, hot water, maintenance & Caretaker MLS#162554
$489,500
THIS 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH HOME IS SITUATED ON A BEAUTIFUL FENCED LOT WITH GREENSPACE/MOUNTAIN SIDE AT REAR OF PROPERTY. Chattels include Fridge, Stove, Washer/Dryer, 3 Bookcases in Basement, 1 Sewing Table, Dining Room Table & Hutch. New windows/doors within last 4 years and a newer roof.
MLS# 161316
FREDERICK SINGER (LOGAN LAKE): • 250-318-8392 •email: fred.singer@royallepage.ca
79-2776 CLAPPERTON AVENUE
$59,000 580 KANE VALLEY ROAD
THIS MOBILE HOME IS A MUST SEE! THIS UNIT HAS BEEN WELL CARED FOR WITH UPDATING DONE IN LAST 6 YEARS. There is updated flooring throughout with a bright & open kitchen to the dinning area with lots of storage. MLS#162764
$525,000
LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO RELAX & ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS? Look no further! This cute & cozy cabin is in the Kane Valley near Merritt located on 10.15 acres with a beautiful creek.
MLS#162610
JENNIFER KIGHTLEY: • 250-315-3256 •email: jenniferkightley@royallepage.ca
