Merritt Herald November 10, 2021 by Merritt Herald

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 •

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SCORCHED: Bar FX Ranch owner Wayne MacDonald surveys burnt bush following the historic 2021 wildfire season. The Herald recounts part two of their story. PG. 9

FESTIVAL RETURN

Bass Coast organizers have officially set out the dates for the return of the festival in 2022, after two years.

THIS WEEK

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NHL DEBUT

A former Merritt Centennial player is now hitting the ice with the National Hockey League’s Minnesota Wild.

/PAGE 14

NICOLA LAKE SHORE ESTATES BARE LAND STRATA LOTS 4&5 Build your dream home or recreation home in this proposed 39 lot bareland strata development. These proposed strata lots have great views and access to the water. Only 2.5 hours from Lower Mainland. All services are to the property line. GST is applicable. Developer Disclosure Statement and all info. available online at www.nicolaestates.com, under Properties For Sale, 39 Bareland Strata Info. Call Listing Agent for details.

MLS#164698 $255,000 / MLS#164000 $255,000

Moving Real Estate BC Ltd. http:// brad-yakimchuk.c21.ca

250-378-6166

Brad Yakimchuk 250-315-3043 Personal Real Estate Corporation

2 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

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Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts providing you with the highest level of care.

250.378.6941 https://legacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 2755 Eagle Cres

Karen Bonneteau

Janis Post

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

250-315-5178

250-315-3672

1264 Houston Street

Ray Thompson

Brenda Thompson

Valerie Kynoch

Sarah Dickie

Jordyn Chenier

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

250-315-3377

250-315-8377

SL10 6528 Waterside Trail

MLS#162927

$219,000

ing views of the Nicola Valley. In one of the most sought out areas in Merritt, this lot won’t last long! GST is not applicable & all services are underground at the lot line & would need

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

14 Galena Ave, Logan Lake

1410 Collett Street

to be installed.

MLS# 164853

$260,000

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

1926 1st Ave

2649 Coutlee Ave

MLS#164882

SL12 6528 Waterside Trail

MLS#164854

$469,000

Two story family home w/ 3 beds up, 1.5 bath up & a 1 bed inlaw suite on main floor w/ full bath & shared laundry. Some neat features include the beautiful brick exterior w/ stone pathway, storage shed, fully fenced landscaped yard, single car garage, updated roof, furnace & hot water tank.

101-2514 Spring Bank Ave

MLS164460 $615,000 Beautiful 4 bed, 3 bath rancher style house w/ fully finished basement in strata development. Home offers open concept design w/ gorgeous double-sided fireplace, large living room & kitchen.

1464 Miller Road

MLS#161824 $1,399,000 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.

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

778-709-0363

SL13 6528 Waterside Trai

NEW $275,000

2140 Taylor Place

$412,000

2 bedroom, 1 bath mobile situated on .28 acres w/ stunning farmland views. This 1600 sq.ft. home has wood heat, newer stove and dishwasher. The fully fenced yard offers plum & apple trees, beautiful garden area, 2 storage sheds & RV parking.

Lot 15 Jack Swartz Road

MLS#162954

$420,000

MLS#164885

$425,000

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

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

1608 Pine Street

449 Woodward Avenue

MLS#164852

$280,000

2488 Coutlee Ave

MLS#164657

$459,000

Very nicely updated rancher w/ a detached wired, insulated & heated garage/shop w/ lane access. The home features 3 nice size bedrooms, an updated 3pc bathroom w/ large walk-in shower, the kitchen is spacious w/ lots of Mill Creek cabinets.

2351 Irvine Avenue

SOLD

SOLD MLSS164659

250-280-2353

NEW

NEW MLS#164553 $399,900 Adorable 3 bed, 2 bath home. Refinished kitchen w/ stainless steel appliances, vinyl double glazed windows, roof 2012, gutters 2010, furnace 2009, and hot water tank 2016.

250-280-0835

NEW

NEW MLS#164607 $189,000 Looking to build your dream home? This lot offers breathtak-

250-280-0994

Stephen Holbrook

MLS#164601

$479,900

Waterfront on Spius Creek 17+ acreage. Enjoy the rich blend of topography on this scenic rural property. Only 20 min from Merritt, 1 hr from Kamloops, 2 hrs from the Lower Mainland. Great location as a launch pad for all your outdoor activities or dream home away from the hustle & bustle of the city.

1732 Granite Avenue

MLS#162403

$659,000

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

MLS#164098

$525,000

Nice 3 bed, 1 bath family home located on a large .26 acre lot. The home features a nice living room open to a large entry area, the kitchen has lots of cabinets & all appliances are included. The lot is large & private & there is a detached 650 sq.ft. in-law suite.

2151 Munro Crescent

MLS#164051

$799,000

Custom 3 bed, 2 bath, 3 car garage home located on a quiet street in the desired bench area of Merritt. The main level offers a nice design w/ kitchen, dining & family room together, separate living room, 2 bedS, full bath & laundry room.

MLS#164337

$585,000

3 bed, 2.5 bath 4 level split home on a large .36 acre corner lot in Lower Nicola. Homeowner has done many updates: decking, metal roof & siding, flooring & paint, updates to bathrooms, landscaping & engineered septic system and field in 2019. This home is perfect for a family looking for space and a yard to play in.

1776 Juniper Drive

MLS#164050

$829,000

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

MLS#164090

$599,900

Immaculate lovely 4 bedroom level entry family residence. French doors, & parquet floors in entrance & hallway. Generous sized rooms & hallways throughout the home. Extra storage areas. 2020 high end boiler heat & water softener.

1963 Greaves Ave

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.

Lest we forget Remembrance Day November 11, 2021

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 3

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LOCAL BUSINESS

Kekuli owner named Young Entrepreneur of the Year Elijah Mack began to dream of owning his own restaurant when he was twelve years old.

Nov. 10: Partly Cloudy 6°/-3°C Nov. 11: Rain/Snow 4°/2°C Nov. 12: Partly Cloudy 8°/1°C Nov. 13: Partly Cloudy 6°/2°C Nov. 14: Partly Cloudy 7°/2°C Nov. 15: Rain 5°/0°C

Online merrittherald.com

WILDFIRE SUPPORT

are willing to accept the responsibilities and do whatever it takes to get where you want to be,” said Mack. Food and business aren’t the only things important to Mack, who is also dedicated to helping youth, particularly indigenous youth reach their goals as he has. “I also wanted to be a youth advocate,” said Mack. “I wanted to give our youth, and give our children, a safe place that I didn’t have growing up. And if there’s one thing I learned about being an entrepreneur, it’s that it’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle. So again, it was a calling I had to listen to. By the age of 21 I was a Youth Representative for the Friendship Centre Movement across Canada, and in the process of buying Kekuli Café, Merritt. I was 22 by the time I purchased Kekuli Merritt. Being the first Indigenous Cuisine Franchise owner in Canada. It was such a huge accomplishment!” Despite these accomplishments, Mack didn’t expect to be recognized with an award. “I have to say I was very shocked receiving a call from The BC Achievement Foundation informing me of my award. I had no idea I was even nominated. To receive an award of any kind is the highest level of honouring I can accomplish. Because, for me, I am working at creating a better future for our upcoming generations. Leading by example. So, every milestone and every award is a bonus in my life. I was a small-town kid, living in poverty, and a high school dropout. To now opening a second restaurant at the age of 25. Believe me when I say, anything is possible.”

LOCAL PROJECTS WE’VE HELPED FUND

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

Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------ 14-15 Classifieds ---------- 17-18

WEATHER

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Elijah Mack, owner of the Kekuli Café Merritt and the soon to open Kamloops location of the popular Indigenous eatery, has been awarded the Young Entrepreneur of the Year by Indigenous Business Awards. Mack originally hails from Bella Coola and is a member of the Nuxalk Nation but has made Merritt his home for 18 of his 25 years. It was here that Mack began his career in the food industry. “I worked the cafeteria at the high school for four years, and I was a Team Leader at McDonald’s in Merritt when I was 16 until I was about 19-20.” But Mack’s passion for food and culinary artistry began well before that. “I was twelve years old the first time I knew I wanted to be a restaurant owner,” said Mack. “It occurred to me that I wanted to be my own boss, and I love to cook. So being a restaurant owner was a calling I had to listen to.” That being said, nothing could prepare small business owners and particularly restaurateurs, for the rollercoaster that was to be the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a Restaurants Canada report at the beginning of this year, as many as 10,000 restaurants had closed across the country, many for good. Struggling under Public Health Orders and restrictions which heavily impacted sit in dining and forced many cafés and restaurants to quickly pivot their entire business model just to remain open, Mack doubled down and carried on making food for his community. “As a franchise we were forced to be creative and think about new ways to approach every restriction that was thrown our way,” said Mack. “Mind you, we recognized prior pandemic, that the world was changing, and we had to adapt to survive. The pandemic just forced us to move a lot faster. I have to say the pandemic has humbled me in ways I didn’t know it could. I was forced to lay off all of my staff and work 110% by myself for a couple of weeks. This is when my mother came to the rescue and worked for me for free so we could keep our doors open,” Mack continued. “With that being said, it has been very challenging navigating through COVID, but it has also been inspiring. I have learned so much about my business, and about everyone around me. I was living life in the fast lane for so long that I was forgetting who I was and where I came from.” During this time of reflection on both himself and his business, Mack decided he was both ready for the next step and also prepared for the challenges that would present. He secured a space in Kamloops and set about expanding the Kekuli Café franchise. “Expanding my business is a prime example of how I live my life, and that is I believe that anything is possible as long as you

INSIDE THE HERALD

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

Red Cross will be teaming up with the Province of BC this December to provide extra financial assistance for those in need of housing after the 2021 wildfire season.

Search ‘RED CROSS’

DRUG ABUSE

Nine illicit drug deaths were reported in Merritt in the past eight months, according to a new report by the BC Coroners Service.

Search ‘DRUG’

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

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

4 • THURSDAY, WEDNESDAY, November 2021 November 11,10, 2021

City Council Meetings have resumed in-person and residents are strongly encouraged to watch online via www.merritt.ca Tuesday, November 23 - Regular Council Meeting - 6 pm

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Cannabis shop buffer zones not to be reviewed

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 5

NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY GARDENS

SOCIETY

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Friday, December 3 at 5:30 pm 1990 Chapman Street (St. Michael’s Hall)

nteer shared harvest Join us to learn more about our Volu gardens and share in the program (participate in caring for the ort program (support to harvest) and Community harvest supp ions). nizat orga rity local food secu ed within shar and n grow was lbs Over 1500 ess! succ t the community this year, a grea

City Council chose at the last regular meeting not to review Merritt’s current buffer zones for cannabis shops, whether that would have involved increasing or decreasing them. After research done by City of Merritt staff, Merritt’s current cannabis shop buffer zone bylaw was not found to be an outlier in any direction compared to similar municipalities. The City of Penticton Depending on the buffer, whether it be required spacing from schools, parks, other retail cannabis shops, etc., Merritt’s current zoning bylaw is between 100-150 metres. Of the other communities considered, just over half, or seven of the twelve, had some sort of buffer zone requirement. Though there was consistency as to what sort of properties would require a buffer zone, the distances varied considerably between the municipalities, anywhere from 50 metres to 300 metres. “So we are literally right smack dab in the middle,” said Greg Lowis, Director of Corporate Services, who added that because of this and the wide range of almost arbitrarily chosen distances, City staff would recommend that Council vote not to propose any

changes. Councillor Tony Luck was the first to agree. “There’s no consistency, there’s nothing here. Quite frankly, I think that City staff has better things to do right now than worry about buffer zones...I know we’ve got a lot of other work that needs to be done.” Travis Fehr echoed his fellow councillor’s words. “Just the fact that these buffer zones vary so widely, I don’t think that there’s really any objective way to know how much a buffer zone is helps or does not help. There’s probably good arguments on both sides of the point... but it’s not something we should spend much more time on.” Councillor Melvina White was in opposition of putting the matter to bed. “Without some kind of rules, we’ve got no limit on how many can go in, so if three more want to open down there (Quilchena Ave.), we’ve got a whole street of cannabis stores.” Director Lewis did remind Council, however, that any new business license for a cannabis shop has to go through Council consultation. “It is always up to Council to decide if you feel, on any basis, if a new store in any particular locations is not beneficial to the community.”

Quilchena Canna Company

Quilchena Cannabis Co.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

S T BE

19+

For more information stop by Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC or call 250-378-5

420

6 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

VIEWPOINT

www.merrittherald.com

Emma Doncaster 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.

ALBAS: Lack of emission caps for oil and gas imports

In last week’s report I referenced the closure of the Kelowna International airport (YLW) to international flights and asked: “Do you support the Kelowna Airport being re-opened to DAN ALBAS International flights as VIEW FROM THE have been many other HILL airports in Canada?” I would like to thank all of those who took the time to respond and can state the responses were both overwhelming and almost unanimous in support of international flights returning to YLW. Fortunately, we had some excellent news this week as Transport Canada announced eight more Canadian airports will, as of November 30th, 2021, again be open to international arrivals and departures.

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

MERRITT HERALD

The list of these eight airports St. John’s, Hamilton, Waterloo, Regina, Saskatoon, Kelowna, Abbotsford and Victoria. I would like to sincerely thank all of those who worked in support of this announcement. On the topic of International travel, over 39,000 delegates registered to attend the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland, making this the largest attended COP climate conference in history. Blacklock’s, a journalism organization out of Ottawa, reports that the official Canadian delegation at the COP26 conference was 277 delegates, 30 Environment Canada staff, 17 press aides as well as a videographer & speechwriter for the Prime Minister and 4 CBC reporters. In the interests of full disclosure, members of the opposition also attend this conference. I attended on behalf of the Official Opposition as the Shadow Minister for Environment and Climate Change, as did the leader of the NDP, Jagmeet Singh, Bloc MP Kristina Michaud and Green Party MP’s

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

Elizabeth May and Mike Morrice. Several government ministers including Prime Minister Trudeau also attended this conference and the prime minister has made several announcements of behalf of Canada. One of the more noteworthy announcements was a promise that “Canada will impose a hard cap on emissions from the oil and gas sector”. One of the challenges is that other countries who produce oil and gas are not following Canada in setting emissions caps, nor are they setting a “price on pollution” when it comes to oil and gas. A further complication is that different regions of Canada use oil and gas that is imported from these countries, such as Saudi Arabia and the United States. That leads to my question for this week: How do you think the Government should deal with oil and gas imports from other countries that are not subject to these same types of policies? I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or call toll free at 1-800-665-8711.

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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VIEWPOINT

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 7

BACKYARD ASTRONOMER: A sky full of planets Gary Boyle CONTRIBUTED For thousands of years, the night sky was just a splash of random dots. Over time, constellations were formed by connecting the brighter points of light of a certain area of sky. Here, imaginary shapes were formed representing an object, person, animal or even a god – the constellations. Then came the mythologic stories and how they interacted in the celestial theatre. Those that looked at the sky regularly would notice a brighter than usual star or stars traverse a path across the sky over weeks, months and years. Not known at the time, these are the members of our solar system. The word planet came from the early Greeks meaning “wanderer” or “wandering star” and for obvious reasons. Seen with the unaided eye are Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. Uranus and Neptune were discovered via the telescope in 1781 and 1846 respectively. Pluto was discovered in 1930 but demoted to minor planet status in 2006 so the count remains at eight major planets orbiting its parent star – the sun. Brilliant Venus is seen low in the southwest sky after sunset while bright Jupiter is seen in the southeast with dimmer Saturn about five inches to Jupiter’s right at arm’s length. Once the planets were identified and studied, we thought we were the only solar system in our Milky Way Galaxy. Little did we know all that would change in the early 1990s. The first discovery of an exoplanet (a planet that orbits a star outside the solar system) was discovered in 1992. Three planets are orbiting this pulsar located 2,300 light-years away. Pulsars are very energetic stars resulting from the explosive death of a massive star called a supernova. If these three worlds had any life on them before the star blew its top, the shockwave from the supernova stripped away its atmosphere and is bathing the lifeless planets in deadly radiation. However, the big discovery came in 1995 when the first exoplanet orbiting a sun-like star was discovered. The star named 51 Pegasi is located 50.8 light-years away in the constellation Pegasus – seen overhead on these cool nights. This star is visible with the unaided eye on a clear moonless night. Of course, you

will not see the exoplanet named Bellerophon even with a telescope but knowing that a world is orbiting that tiny point of light is mind-blowing. The search did not end in 1995. Thanks to ground-based telescopes and the orbiting Kepler Space Telescope, the count so far is 4,531 confirmed planets with 7,798 candidates. These discoveries were made from a small portion of the sky. Some astronomers have stated that every star in the night sky has at least one exoplanet around it. Many are too close to their star to support life as we know it but there are a few in the habitable or Goldie Locks zone where liquid water remains fluid, like the oceans here on earth. Finding an exoplanet with water is the key to finding life. The Milky Way contains an estimated 300 billion stars. Imagine if a single grain of table salt represented a star, you can fill a sandbox 20 feet long by 20 feet wide by one foot high.

There are an estimated two trillion galaxies in the observable universe. Think of all those worlds and the possibility of life. Look up at the sky, look at a sky full of planets. Till next time, clear skies.

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

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

M E R R I T T

From the Herald archives: Nov., 2011

CANDIDATE LOOKS TO BOOST LOWER NIC’S SPIRIT

LETTERS POLICY

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, Known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, Gary addressed to the editor. Boyle is an astronomy educator, guest speaker and Letters must be signed monthly columnist for the Royal Astronomical Society and include the writer’s of Canada. He has been interviewed on more than 50 name and address. Canadian radio stations as well as television across Letters may be edited Canada and the U.S. In recognition of his public for length, taste and outreach in astronomy, the International Astronomical clarity. Please keep Union has honoured him with the naming of Asteroid letters to 300 words (22406) Garyboyle. Follow him on Twitter: @astro- or less. Email educator or his website: www.wondersofastronomy. letters to: com. newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

250-378-1586

www.realestatemerritt.com

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

If TNRD candidate Jon Galbraith is elected, he said he will work to boost the Lower Nicola community spirit, something he feels is lacking. “We have no community spirit because there’s nothing to be proud of,” said Galbraith, who suggested improving Smith Park. Only a handful of people attended the first session of the Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce-hosted All Candidates Forum.

John Isaac

Johnisaac@telus.net

Speak up

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget The highest appreciation is not to utter the words But to live by them. JFK

8 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

POLICE FILES Merritt man pleads guilty to firearm charges Several court outcomes were released last week regarding crimes in the Merritt area. On November 2, 2021, Mr. Christopher Skidmore pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm without a license and careless storage of a firearm. On January 9, 2021 just before 8 p.m., Merritt RCMP responded to a 9-1-1 emergency call after a Sun Valley resident allegedly fire a non-restricted firearm towards a neighbouring residence during a dispute. The Southeast District Emergency Response Team was immediately deployed to Merritt to assist, while front line officers responded to the scene to assess the situation. The suspect, a44-year-old Merritt man, Christopher Jonathan Skidmore, was taken into custody at approximately 2 a.m. by the RCMP Southeast District Emergency Response Team without further incident. A further search of the man’s residence led to the seizure of a shot gun. Mr. Skidmore received a conditional sentence order for six months, followed by 18 months of probation, a ten-year mandatory firearms prohibition and a $200 victim surcharge. Kamloops man pleads guilty after a crime spree On November 4, 2021, Mr. Michael Lazaruk pleaded guilty to Flight from Police, Carry a Concealed Weapon and Theft of a Motor Vehicle, stemming from a crime spree that occurred in April, 2021.

On April 1, 2021, the Logan Lake RCMP was alerted to a suspicious vehicle that was eventually located with a single male occupant in the Logan Lake Library parking lot. When police attempted to stop the vehicle it fled at a high rate of speed. It was later determined to be stolen. The Logan Lake RCMP located the suspect and stolen vehicle a short time later at a private residence in the 8500-block of Highway 97C. The suspect had allegedly broken into the residence and subsequently stole a motorhome, among other property including firearms, and again fled from police towards Merritt BC. The Merritt RCMP successfully deployed a spike belt and stopped the motorhome on a commercial property near the 2600-block of Highway 97C. The suspect driver, Michael Lazaruk, was taken into police custody. Mr. Lazaruk was sentenced to 180 days in jail and probation for 1 year. Merritt woman pleads guilty to theft under $5000 On April 2, 2021, Merritt RCMP received a report that a female had stolen a wallet from a parked vehicle in the 2300 block of Nicola Avenue. Front line officers responded and were able to identify the female from surveillance footage. The female was arrested a short time later, the wallet was located in her possession and returned to its owner. On November 2, 2021, Ms. Ramona Michel pleaded guilty to theft under $5000. She was given a suspended sentence and probation for 9 months.

MEDI SPA

Desert Divas & Dons We have an announcement! Cascade Family Dental would like to welcome Dr. Karen Gill as an associate to our team. She will be taking over for Dr. Comartin while he is needed at his new practice in Nelson, BC. Dr. Comartin is confident Dr. Gill is a great match for our clinic and will be able to smoothly transition into his roll during his absence. Dr. Karen Gill was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Concordia University of Edmonton in 2015. Shortly after completing her undergraduate studies, she moved to Melbourne, Australia to pursue a Doctorate in Dentistry at the University of Melbourne. Following the completion of her studies she returned home to Canada to practice in Vancouver BC, and is now residing and practicing in Merritt, BC. Dr. Gill’s attention to detail and dedication to providing optimal dental care make her an asset to the Cascade Family Dental team. She is fluent in Punjabi, Hindi and English. During Dr. Gill’s time off, she enjoys staying active outdoors, travelling, finding new local treasures and venues, trying her hand at cooking different cuisines and brushing up on other languages and cultures. We are pleased to welcome her to our clinic and look forward to all of our patients meeting her. Sincerely, Your Cascade Team #110 – 1700 Garcia Street, Merritt 250-378-4000 reception@cascadedental.ca

GRAND OPENING

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 9

“I’m stuck in here”: riding out the firestorm The final part in a two-part series on how Bar FX Ranch owners Rhonda and Wayne MacDonald found their way through the record 2021 wildfire season.

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Find part one of this story in our Nov. 4 edition, online at www.merrittherald.com. Despite the firestorm tearing through the area, which ended up destroying the homes of several of their neighbours, Wayne never left the evacuation zone, only going four km up the highway to Shackan where his mother lives and across the Nicola River at one point to check on a friend before returning to the ranch. “There was a lot of adrenaline, at that time the fire was coming back down from the highway behind the shop and approaching the house,” said Wayne, who went to check the driveway that lead to Hwy 8, the main route of escape. “All the power poles were burned off,

Rhonda MacDonald

the powerlines were hanging five or six feet in the air, there’s no way you’re driving anything up the driveway, so I’m stuck in here, other than the fact that I can cross the river and get away if I have to. By that time the fire jumped their guard up there on the Kwoiek power line, which was a back burn and they lost all control of it. It came down the Agate on the Manning, and then when the winds changed it blew down on top of everybody here. Then the wind carried it back west again. So now it’s heading for Shackan community once again, and the fire actually jumped over the power line again, now it’s going full circle this fire.” While the majority of the ground crews battling the Lytton Creek fire were from BC, albeit not immediately local, the MacDonalds were informed See ‘RANCHERS’ Page 10

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10 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Ranchers frustrated with fire control process

Wayne MacDonald

From Page 9 that a back burn specialist had been posted to the wildfire, from Australia. “Why are they not taking advantage of their local resources?” Rhonda questioned. “Loggers, ranch-

ers, hunters, we all know the back country, we know how our weather systems and winds work.” The MacDonalds expressed their frustration with

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back burns. Although the ground crews were exceptionally hard working and cooperative, giving their all to fighting the fire and helping local residents whenever possible, those observing the fire and conditions wonder why they were given directions that seemingly were unhelpful for the fire and crews alike.

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“The people on the ground were just amazing,” said Rhonda. “But Mr. Australian Backburn Specialist? I’d like to take him up to have a look at our cows. It’s so frustrating, I don’t understand what the hell the thought process is. I understand logically what a back burn is supposed to do, but would it not be more prudent to actually put the fire out when you have a chance to?” According to Rhonda, a text from the BCWS liaison officer implied that the fire would not be put out until Mother Nature played a role in the firefighting efforts. “Right from the start, they had no intention of putting the fire out,” said Rhonda. “But it was worded that they expect that they won’t be able to control the fire; it’s too hot, it’s too windy, there’s too much fuel. I understand that part, but they definitely had lots of opportunity to control it.” “The resources were here,” Wayne added. “There was a logging contractor in the area, three, maybe four excavators from Lillooet, a couple of dozers, there was lots of heavy equipment. It was just the way

they managed it.” Wayne approached the acting fire chief for Shackan, a community of which the MacDonalds are a part, asking him to convey a message to the Shackan community Chief to direct resources to the Platt Creek area well before the fire became a raging inferno in mid-August, noting “time is running out”. “I was up there riding and on the ATV as well, and then back up on saddle horse and there was no effort to put that fire out,” said Wayne. “And I told them at the Band Hall, you need to put that fire out because if you don’t put that one out when you have it cornered right now it’s going to jump Platt Creek and then it’s going to jump Shackan Creek and then when the winds

grab it, it’s going to pumped into bladgo straight up the der bags ten to back of Tent Mtn. twelve kms away and then it’s going and used to wet the to go to Edgar log decks along the Creek and then newly constructed Spius Creek, and fire guards. then Pony Creek.” After enduring This did indeed one, and in some turn out to be the cases two, passes of trend the fire folthe intense Lytton lowed, stopping just Creek fire, those shy of the Spius logs were reduced Creek area. to ash. “We had the These are all resources, we had practices that are the manpower to considered “tried go to Platt Creek,” and true” and have Wayne alleged, also been used with a believing that he reasonable success witnessed a misrate on wildfires management of in years past. The those resources and trouble arises from a skewing of priori- the fact that the ties. 2021 fire season “Here they’ve was unlike any bunched logs in other, arguably strips, 200 or 300 the most intense metre sections and and damaging in they’ve got water recorded history, lines running down thwarting typical to these log decks, suppression tactics. and they’ve got “The firefightsprinklers on the ers had gone down log decks,” said the highway when Wayne, adding the smoke started that he believed getting thick,” said water lines running Rhonda, referfrom the Nicola ring to the point at River and his hay fields were See ‘WHERE’S’ Page 12

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 11

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12 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

“Where’s BCWS now?” says Bar FX owner From Page 10

is going to be mudslides.” fighting to be done. Heavy rains have already indicated that “Everybody’s laid off collecting EI, some areas are going to face significant because there’s no fire’s to fight, but there’s slide activity. A portion of Hwy. 1 was even all this clean up and shit to do. They closed for part of September in expectashould be here getting rid of the danger tion of post-fire landslides. trees, winding up the wire, getting the “It’s not only what nature is going to do posts off the mountain, clearing the right now, it’s the fact that on range land and on of way… some of them have to go back private land, all the fences are gone,” said to school, I get that, but there’s a bunch Rhonda. of them that could be up there mopping “And that’s a huge deal, there’s cattle things up and cleaning things up properly.” everywhere right now, mixed up and where These are all things that ranchers and they shouldn’t be. It’s confusing for the property owners are having to do themcattle, too.” selves, at their own expense. Although the province and landowners “You’ve got BCWS running around began cleaning up and re-fencing as soon lighting back burns, burning shit down, as it was safe to do so, there are still areas infrastructure down, and in the end, the where fencing damaged or destroyed by rancher has to fork out the money or find the 2017 and 2018 wildfires haven’t been a way to get things back in place,” said replaced. Wayne. Frustrations keep circling back to the “Where’s BCWS now? Why don’t they grand question on everybody’s mind: Why? come down and clean all the trees up that Why were fires not brought under conwe had to tip over on the right of way? trol at the earliest opportunity? Why were Why don’t they pay for the fuel for the ineffective tactics employed repeatedly excavator to do all that work? It’s their HWY # for months? Why were local stakeholders gong show. Everybody that’s affected by TO KAM excluded from providing knowledge and the fires is basically chucked into the penresources? alty box, for no apparent reason other thanP EREG RINE “This didn’t have to happen,” said that the back burn was stupidity.” WA Wayne. Despite the hardships, the MacDonalds, EAGL “You’ve got 80,000 hectares up there like hundreds of other ranchers acrossE CRES. roasted. BC Timber Sales had six blocks BC, have no intention of hanging up their BEL a job, but laid out on the face of the mountain here spurs. Ranching is not merely WAY BREMNER SH WA W OL F E A D W and they were going to start logging it rather a way ofLTElife. And Bar FX is not AVE. ST. next June… so there’s loggers out of a job merely an expanse of land for feeding catNICHOLSON because touching that stuff now is going to tle, it’s AVE. a home, scars and burns included. VE. EA . L T R A C cause a huge erosion problem so it’s probStill, horrific wildfire SD AV E. RE afterEIDenduring REID RK R FO PL. three ably best if it just stays there. The mill’s out seasonsID in of the last five years, there the wood, the stumpage money is gone, is a pressing need for change. The only H DR. so the economic impact of this stupidity is U CR. hope for those suffering losses such as those TAIN HOSPITAL TILLO SA OUN S O A M C R DE huge.” brought about by the Lytton Creek wild. R PON WAY EASTWOOD RO C Wayne also questions why BCWS staff MUNfire, is that change is implemented before it VES GILLIS CR. are laid off when there is no further is, once again, too late. GREA VE. fireS PRINGBANK AVE. A FAL CON CRE ST

DR.

they’re not just cattle,” said Rhonda. “They have a history with us. We selected those cattle, they weren’t just feeder cattle, they’re breeding stock. We selected those cattle for a reason. The calves that we lost out there, there were at least two heifer calves that I had picked out for replacements, they weren’t going to be sold, they’re part of our herd. They were our future, and people don’t understand that. That is the last thing that anybody wants to see. And what is even more agonizing is knowing how they died. It wasn’t a nice death, they didn’t burn, they suffocated from the smoke and lack of oxygen… they were all facing the trail out, they were making a run for it,” Rhonda continued, railing against the needlessness and waste of their deaths. “We make every effort that we can to treat our animals humanely and give them a good life and a good death as well. They have a purpose in life, and they didn’t get to fulfill their purpose in life, and they sure as hell didn’t have a humane death. It’s heartbreaking,” Rhonda concluded, becoming visibly emotional. We are well into October now, and the cool temperatures, accompanied by frost, rain and early season snow have alleviated the fear and stress of wildfires for much of the population. But for farmers and ranchers and those who live rurally in areas affected by wildfires, the recovery and clean-up will be a years-long process. The Bar FX range is roughly 100,000 acres and the MacDonalds estimate that around 70% of it has been “roasted”. “We can’t put cattle up there next year and the following year cattle will probably be limited capacity,” explained Rhonda. “You have to give the land time to regenerate and reseed. And our next battle

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which the Bar FX cattle were being loaded and shipped out of the fire zone. “They were down there with firetrucks and stuff, but they couldn’t do anything because it was so out of control and burning so hot. It was a Rank 6+ fire, not one of those firefighters that we had talked to had ever seen a fire like that, not one… they just couldn’t believe it.” Ultimately, due to a combination of tireless preparation and a certain degree of pure, dumb luck, the MacDonalds’ home was spared, as were their outbuildings. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for all of their cattle. Despite their best efforts, nearly two dozen animals could not be located and brought down to safety. Eleven cow calf pairs were killed by the Lytton Creek fire, for a total of 22 animals. The toll rises to 33 if you consider that each cow was pregnant. A helicopter pilot flying over the burn spotted the remains and passed on the approximate coordinates. “We could smell them before we saw them because it was eight days afterwards,” said Rhonda. “And they didn’t burn to death, we could still see the colours. You could tell which one was red and which one was black and had a white face. Their ear tags were somewhat melted, but lots of them I recognized, I knew them, I calved them out.” It may surprise those unfamiliar with ranchers to hear that, despite running a large operation which handles numerous cows and calves, the MacDonald’s recognized by sight the animals they had lost, and how strongly their deaths affected them. “That’s what people don’t understand,

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 13

www.merrittherald.com

LNIB initiates Gillis re-elected as TNRD board chair vaccine mandate Jessica Wallace KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD. COM A mandatory vaccine policy has been put in place for all those employed with the Lower Nicola Indian Band, as well as Chief and Council. All employees and those providing service will be required to have proof of one vaccination, or have attained an approved exemption, by Nov. 20, 2021. Proof of full vaccination status will be required by Dec. 20, 2021 or employees will face an unpaid leave of absence until COVID-19 has sufficiently abated. “The Lower Nicola Indian Band is committed to providing a safe working environment for our employees and members of the public with whom we interact regularly,” said Chief Stu Jackson. “The

Ken Gillis has been re-elected chair of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. Gillis has been chair since 2018. Ashcroft Mayor Barbara Roden was acclaimed vice-chair, replacing outgoing vice-chair Bill Kershaw, who represents the Lower North Thompson area. Gillis, a Pritchard resident who represents Electoral Area L, beat purpose of the Vaccination out a Kamloops city councillor to Policy is to provide guidelines lead the board through the end of pertaining to the expectations the term in October 2022. Coun. and requirements of staff with Kathy Sinclair nominated Coun. respect to COVID-19 and Dieter Dudy — the first time in vaccination. In our day-to-day recent memory a Kamloops direcoperations, we have a respontor’s name stood during election sibility to protect all workers for TNRD board chair. and the community in which In a pledge to the board to we operate, and it is critical retain his position as chair, Gillis that the LNIB and its staff take said he worked with staff to overprecautions to protect against come challenges that led to former COVID-19. We cannot conCAO Sukh Gill’s departure. trol the virus or the world at Gill left the regional district large, but certainly take steps in February 2020 with a sizeable as an organization and governtaxpayer-funded severance packment to protect our commuage totalling $520,000, which was nity to the best of our ability. uncovered through freedom of Individually we can each take information requests by KTW. At responsibility and action by the time, the TNRD claimed Gill following COVID safety protoretired, but the severance package cols and getting immunized.” and a legal agreement between A press release put out on Gill and the regional district that Nov. 5 mentions the LNIB’s mandated the TNRD refer to his central location to urban areas departure as a “retirement” raised to the north, east and south, questions about that narrative. with frequent traffic through The reason for his departure the area.

has not been explained publicly. Reporting by this newspaper

Ken Gillis TNRD Chair

revealed spending was high at the regional district under Gill’s leadership. Subsequently, the regional district launched a forensic audit with BDO Canada, which is set to wrap up in mid-December, just before Christmas. Meanwhile, the RCMP is also investigating activities at the TNRD. Gillis said the regional district is “turning a corner” and he wants to remain at the helm to see that through. “I have intimate familiarity with what has evolved so far and I consider that I am in, by far, the best position to carry it to its conclusion,” he said. Gillis also touted his work dur-

ing this year’s wildfire season, which he called “the summer from hell,” and pledged to protect smaller communities and rural areas. The TNRD board is made up primarily of directors from rural areas. Six of the 26 directors are from the City of Kamloops and municipal taxpayers pay about a third of the regional district’s overall budget via a line item on their property taxes. Dudy said that, while he is grateful Gillis navigated the TNRD through turbulent waters as board chair, it is time for change. “One of the biggest challenges we face moving forward will be to regain the public trust,” Dudy said. “That said, I don’t believe that can be done by presenting the status quo. We have to be seen as truly embracing change and that change includes changing the captain in the wheelhouse.” The election occurred via secret ballot, meaning it is unclear how individual directors voted. Merritt Mayor Linda Brown recused herself because she is married to Gillis. “Thank you very much for the vote of confidence and I appreciate it,” Gillis told the board upon his re-election as chair. The term is one year, which effectively means Gillis will remain chair until the next civic elections, which will be in October 2022.

Deliver newspapers and start to . . .

Bass Coast announces return in 2022

LOOKING FOR A CARRIER

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

EARN EXTRA CASH

ROUTE ME16. Clipperton, Coldwater, Douglas, Houston, Priest Ave. 81 papers. • A flexible schedule • A great way to lose weight and get into shape • A great way to supplement your income • Great first job - excellent opportunity to teach children the life skills for success Consider being a carrier for the Merritt Herald. You will earn extra money delivering an award winning community newspaper once a week to the homes in your neighbourhood.

If anyone in your family is interested in being a paper carrier, call Ken at 250-378-4241

Bass Coast is making a return to Merritt. Organizers made the official announcement on Nov. 8 that the event, which draws in thousands of festival-goers every year, will run from July 8-11, 2022. “We are grateful to announce our collective return to Merritt, British Columbia, for Bass Coast Festival 2022,” said Bass Coast founders, Andrea Graham and Liz Thomson. “We are eternally thankful to our attendees for the patience shown over the past 18 months. This is the reunion we have all been waiting for.” Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bass Coast has been put on hiatus since 2019, much like Merritt’s other major festival, the country-themed Rockin’ River. Merritt Mayor Linda Brown threw her support behind the return of both festivals in a recent letter. The 2021 iteration of Bass Coast was officially put on hold in April of this year. Tickets already

purchased will be honoured for the 2022 festival. Though the full lineup is yet to be determined, 150 performers are expected for the festival, across four stages, and including 50 interactive art installations. “The winding Coldwater River and stunning landscape of the Nicola Valley are the idyllic settings for this thoughtfully curated experience,” reads a press release. The theme of “Future Deco” that was originally planned for the cancelled 2020 event remains in place for 2022. It is set to be a mix of a nod to the aesthetics of the 1920s and the future century. “Each theme has surprised us as it unfolds and takes on a life of its own in the hands of the community,” said Thomson. “It’s relevance always surpasses our original intentions, and the way Future Deco has merged with current events is no exception.” Tickets for the event go on sale on Nov. 22.

14 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

SPORTS

www.merrittherald.com

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

Former Centennial makes NHL debut Brandon Duhaime played for the Merritt Centennials during the 2014-15 BCHL season.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM For those skilled enough to perhaps one day lace up their skates in the NHL, they dream of how their first big league goal will play out. For 24-year old Brandon Duhaime, you can bet he didn’t expect his coach to joke that it was “the ugliest first goal he’d ever seen.” The Florida native was skating in one of his first games with the Minnesota Wild in late October on the road against the Anaheim Ducks. His stick was knocked out of his hands while trying to plant himself in front of the Anaheim net, and when he went down to retrieve it, a shot happened to ricochet off of his skate and into the net. Well, not the prettiest. But how many can say they’ve scored an NHL goal? Duhaime scored six of them with

the Merritt Centennials in a full season dressing for the junior A squad in 201415. He added 19 assists on top of that in his 53 games. Merritt won 32 games in 2014-15 and lost 24, eventually falling in the playoffs in the Interior division semifinals. He was chosen in January of 2015 to play in the CJHL Prospects Game, one of twelve players in the BCHL to do so. Arriving in Merritt after a brief stint with the West Kelowna Warriors, Duhaime spent three seasons with Providence College of the NCAA, before being drafted in the fourth round of the 2016 NHL draft and toiling in Minnesota Wild’s AHL system prior to making his long-awaited NHL debut. And the former Cent has made an impact on the big squad - in eleven games with the Wild, he has put up a pair of goals and three assists.

Brandon Duhaime is pictured with the Merritt Centennials in the 2014-15 BCHL season.

BCHL STANDINGS to Nov. 9 INTERIOR DIVISION

COASTAL DIVISION

Team

GP W L OTL OTW PCT

Team

Salmon Arm Penticton West Kelowna Prince George Cranbrook Trail Vernon Wenatchee Merritt

10 9 0 1 1 0.95 10 8 2 0 2 0.80 10 8 2 0 0 0.80 12 8 4 0 0 0.667 10 6 4 0 0 0.60 11 6 4 1 2 0.591 11 3 4 4 1 0.455 8 2 3 3 1 0.438 11 0 11 0 0 0.00

Langley 11 7 1 3 0 0.773 0.682 Alberni Valley 11 7 3 1 0 Victoria 12 8 4 0 2 0.667 12 7 5 0 1 0.583 Nanaimo Chilliwack 11 5 6 0 0 0.455 Surrey 11 5 6 0 0 0.455 Powell River 11 4 6 1 0 0.409 Cowichan Valley 12 3 9 0 0 0.250 Coquitlam 12 2 8 2 0 0.250

Merritt Centennials vs NOV. 10-TRAIL SMOKE EATERS, 7P.M., COMINCO ARENA NOV. 12-COQUITLAM EXPRESS, 7P.M., NICOLA VALLEY MEMORIAL ARENA NOV. 17-PENTICTON VEES, 6:30P.M., SOUTH OKANAGAN EVENTS CENTRE

GP W L OTL OTW PCT

Road losses for Cents

A road swing last week saw the Centennials in some defensive trouble. A visit with the Cranbrook Bucks on Nov. 3 resulted in an 8-0 shutout, before travelling to Salmon Arm on Nov. 5 and falling 7-2. Making their way to West Kelowna the following day to face the Warriors, it was a 9-2 loss. The Cents return home Nov. 12 against Coquitlam.

Upcoming event: RETRO NIGHT November 19 Merritt Centennials vs. Vernon Vipers, Nicola Valley Memorial Arena The BC Hockey League has announced its schedule for the league’s retro theme nights initiative for the 60th Anniversary season. BCHL teams will host a retro night in their arena where they will wear their brand-new retro jerseys and take their fans for a walk down memory lane by honouring the history of their franchise, the league and hockey in their region. Each team’s retro night will be unique and will act as an opportunity to share memories and traditions with their fans, while also showcasing today’s talent in the league. FOR TICKETS DROP BY 2001C VOGHT ST, OR CALL JARED AT 250-378-3604

www.merrittherald.com

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 15

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Kamloops-based Rivers FC introduced as one of seven League1 BC soccer clubs CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

Rivers FC will join seven-team League1 BC in time for its inaugural season in 2022.

Marty Hastings KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK Rivers FC will join seven-team League1 BC, a semi-pro BC Soccer Association circuit, in time for its inaugural season in 2022. Club general manager Keith Liddiard piloted a press conference held on Friday at Thompson Rivers University to introduce the club, which will feature men’s and women’s teams. Mark Pennington will coach the women’s side, with John Antulov in charge of the men. Pennington and Antulov are the TRU WolfPack women’s and men’s soccer coaches, respectively. League1 BC fills in a gap between amateur leagues such as the Pacific Coast Soccer League and the top-tier national circuit, the Canadian Premier League. The league is pegged to be a springboard for

Interior athletes aspiring to join the TRU ranks and WolfPack players aiming to ink professional contracts. Antulov said Rivers FC instantly becomes a major recruiting tool for the WolfPack, who can tout a path to the pro ranks, including the CPL and Major League Soccer, that runs through TRU. “When potential players are looking at programs to go to, they want to see a structure in place and they want to see allyear-round football,” Antulov said, noting WolfPack players are able to toil for Rivers FC during the Canada West off-season. “We’re able to give that to them now. And I think there are some more good things coming down the pipe in the coming year that are going to add to what we’re doing.” Antulov opted not to reveal the news he teased. BC Soccer director of operations Gabriel Assis,

2055 Quilchena Ave

who will oversee L1BC operations, said talk of creating the semi-pro circuit began about six years ago and the product is set to debut at an ideal time, with the women’s and men’s national teams reaching new heights and World Cup action coming to Canada in 2026. “With women’s soccer, there’s not really much after university,” said Camryn Curts, a midfielder for the WolfPack women’s soccer team. “Most people kind of gravitate and go to the states if they want to move up. It’s good to have that semi-pro team here to maybe draw players in and see if they can play here after or during university in the summer.” Premiere Ligue de soccer du Quebec and League1 Ontario operate at the same semi-pro level as League1 BC. “There is an ability to pay players,” Antulov said. “It gives us the opportunity to

bring in a couple of professional players to try and keep the team as strong as possible. “If you look at what’s happening in League 1 in Ontario, also in Quebec, those teams are now able to play in Canadian championships against MLS teams, CPL teams, so there is that opportunity through BC League 1. You may have to bring in a guy here and there. We’re probably not there yet.” Rivers FC is run by a nonprofit society and has a nine-person board of directors — president Nick Rinaldi, vice-president Paolo Munegatto, secretary Domenic Comita, treasurer Tom Calne, director Victor Lizzi, director Jason Fawcett, director Curtis Atkinson, director Matt Milovick and director Robyn Hollas. “There are different groups that have put up sponsorship money to allow it to oper-

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ate,” said Rinaldi, noting ticket sales and sponsorship dollars are key to the financial model. “It’s very community based.” Dino Bernardo is the team consultant. TSS Rovers of Burnaby, Vancouver Whitecaps and Rivers FC will be joined by four more expansion teams, which will be revealed in the coming weeks. Players of any age and from any part of the province are eligible to play for Rivers FC, which has two potential home sites — Hillside Stadium or McArthur Island Field 2 (with enhancements). Liddiard said Rivers FC plans to draw mostly from the Kamloops-andarea region. The club’s colour scheme — Thompson Okanagan blue and Okanagan sunrise (a hue of orange) — and logo were designed by an independent research group that has CPL connec-

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tions, Rinaldi said. “Like the Rivers themselves, the club hopes to connect to the region while adopting some of the virtues that define both arms of the Thompson — strength, speed, at times beauty and sometimes danger,” a club press release said. League play is scheduled to begin next May and run through July.

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church

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

Merritt Baptist Church

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

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

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

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

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

Trinity United Church

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

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

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

Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm Saturday & Sunday: 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm • Closed Mondays

16 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

COMMUNITY

www.merrittherald.com

Community Policing hands out reflectors Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

pedestrian safety. On Nov. 5, CPO Coordinator, Marlene Jones, and Street Enforcement Unit Officer,

Merritt’s Community Policing Office (CPO) is reminding people of the importance of

MERRITT

Constable David Feller were out and about doing a foot patrol downtown sharing messages of safety with the community. We approached pedestrians on the

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 96 Box 527 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250 378-5631

LEGION WEEK JUNE 24 -30, 2019

Branch 096 Merritt 2022 Election Results

93 Years Serving Canadians IN CELEBRATION

President: Arlene Johnston

Come join us Saturday June 29, 2019 ALL FAMILIES WELCOME To our patio area for Free Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Pop and Water 11am until 2pm

Vice President: Jerald (Bud) Johnston

PEOPLE OVER THE AGE OF 19 WELCOME To join us for meat draws in the Lounge 2:30pm until ?

Past-President: Allen Hamm

Executive: Leslie Atkinson, Scott Casey, Brian Dustin, Jack Cross

e music Enjoy th of

Treasurer: Dale Hamm

street and went into several businesses to speak to them about pedestrian safety now that it’s getting darker earlier,” said Jones. “Through a partnership with ICBC we had some very fun little feather shaped reflectors to hand out and we encourage people to put them on their jackets, backpacks, etc.” Using reflectors is a great way of becoming more visible, which drastically increases

safety. “Our pedestrian safety message includes encouraging people to dress with visibility in mind,” said Jones. “Light coloured clothing and reflective items can really help with that. We also encourage people to use the sidewalks and crosswalks when out after dark. One final thing is to ensure that when you are crossing the road that you make eye contact with a driver so that there

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are less misunderstandings that can result in injuries. Drivers may have a hard time see-

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in the afternoon from 1pm until 4pm in the Lounge

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Taking care of all your advertising needs to keep your business up to date!

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for more information at 250-378-4241 email: kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com

ing because of the dark, other drivers’ lights, and weather conditions, and pedestrian incidents

do increase provincially at this time of year.”

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CLASSIFIEDS

WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 17

Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com Announcements

For Sale - Misc

GET RESULTS! Post a classified in 95 newspapers in just a few clicks. Reach almost 2 million people for only $395 week for 25-word text ad or $995 for small display ad. Choose your province or all across Canada. Best value. Save over 85% compared to booking individually. www.bccommunitynews .com/advertise or 1-866-669-9222

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Catch your next job in our employment section.

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL BRITISH COLUMBIA BENEFITS 1-800-211-350 OR Send Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to (604)739-5600 For Your FREE benefits package.

Obituaries

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 MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Obituaries

BOBBI VESTRE nee Sterling

BOBBI VESTRE (Roberta Edith Sterling) aged 72, passed away October 27, 2021 in Nanaimo BC. Born in Prince Albert Sask, she was the daughter to Robert (Bob) and Elizabeth (Betty) Sterling, and sister to Dwana, Joanne, Ward and Sheldon. Her life’s passion was education and d it showed in her unwavering commitmentt to t her h students. Being an exceptional Teacher changed the lives of so many. She began her career in 1975 at Central Elementary School in Merritt B.C as the Special Education Teacher. After the program was integrated, Bobbi began a position teaching Grade 6 at Diamond Vale Elementary. Those years at Diamond Vale would become the foundation for the stories and the students she spoke about most. Despite a battle with dementia, her students, co-workers, and memories of her years of teaching never left her. If you were in her class, you were in her heart. Bobbi moved her teaching career to the South-Central Distance Education School in Merritt B.C before retiring and moving back to Saskatchewan. Bobbi loved travel and her friends, and you’ll often hear stories of how much Bobbi loved to laugh. She was always the life of the party and a “Martha Stewart” in her own right, something inherited by her daughter. She could create an event to remember from next to nothing and was exceptional at ﬁnding creative solutions to every problem. She was strong and independent, while always looking for the next opportunity to explore and be free to live life on her own terms. She will be deeply missed by friends and family across the globe. She is survived by her only daughter, Desja Lee (Vestre) and her 3 grandchildren, Rychen, Carys and Flynn. Memorial Services to be announced at a later date, for both Merritt B.C. and Shellbrook Sask.

Listening, openness and love will give you the words to make most of your precious time with a dying person.

P: 250-280-1701

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

TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

Obituaries

Janis Louise CHARLEBOIS (Barrett)

It is with the deepest regret the family of Janis Charlebois (Barrett) announces her sudden passing. Janis was born in Kamloops, BC on Feb. 22, 1949 and passed away peacefully at home in Toronto, Ontario on Oct. 20, 2021. Janis was dearly loved and will be sadly missed by sons Robert Blakoe (Heidi), Michael Blakoe (Sandra), grandchildren Robert, Eric and Brittany, siblings Brian Barrett (Sherry), Myrna Marcinowski (Frank), and Gary Mitchel (Marilyn). She will also be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, relatives and dear friends. A private service will be held at a later date in Toronto. Employment

Employment

HELP WANTED Position: Cook

1 vacancy Permanent employment, full time 40 hours/week $16.50/hour Experience: 2 years to less than 3 years Starting date: ASAP Job description: ✧ Prepare and cook complete meals or individual dishes and foods, ✧ Plan menus, determine size of food portions, estimate food requirements and cost, and monitor and order suppliers, ✧ Inspect kitchen and food service areas, ✧ Train staff in preparation, cooking and handling of food, ✧ Supervise kitchen staff and helpers, ✧ Clean kitchen and work areas, and ✧ Organize and manage buffets, etc. Apply by email: tropicofh@gmail.com

HELP WANTED POSITIONS May the Sunshine of Comfort Dispel the Clouds of Despair

Public Skating Safety Monitor Cashier On-Call Please visit www.merritt.ca/employment for complete job descriptions and to apply.

18 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 Employment

Employment

www.merrittherald.com Employment

Job Posting ~ Chief Financial Officer Upper Nicola Band (UNB) is looking for a Chief Financial Officer who will be tasked with coordination of all financial management, control, reporting, and procurement functions for the Nation and will act as custodian of its’ investments and assets. Further, the CFO is responsible for ensuring the financial administration systems, policies, procedures directions and internal controls are appropriately designed and operating effectively. This role is appointed by the Chief and Council, reports to the Band Administrator and will be responsible for leading a team of five. You will have the responsibility to produce the budget of approximately $15M, as per the UNB Administration Law 2018, and subsequent policies to ensure financial transparency and accountability are adhered to. See more information at: Administration – Upper Nicola Band https://uppernicola.com/departments/administration This is a great opportunity for an accounting professional who wants to help drive change and growth within the Upper Nicola Band as you will be a key contributor to a very supportive senior leadership team. Duties and Responsibilities 1. Manages the operations of the Financial Services including financial administration, budgeting, utility billing, accounting, internal audit, fixed asset tracking, procurement, payroll, and central cashiering. 2. Coordinates the external audit, completes the annual financial statement, and compiles information for the annual report. 3. Directs, coaches, and appraises departmental staff and coordinates their work. 4. Oversees the newly trained Property Tax Administrator 5. Co-ordinate’s cash and debt management, including short-term borrowing and/or investing of funds. 6. Prepares and controls Financial Services’ annual operating and capital budgets. 7. Develops policies and procedures for accomplishing approved objectives for the effective delivery of financial services. 8. Acts as Band Administrator as assigned. Key Qualifications • A professional Accounting Designation – CPA required in good standing and either have or willing to obtain CAFM-AFOA certification. • Working knowledge of Xyntax Accounting System an asset. • A minimum of eight years’ progressive experience with a minimum of 4 years at a supervisory management level. • Proven interpersonal skills related to team building, liaison with stakeholders, and collaborative problem solving. • Track record of leadership in proposing and influencing changes. • Well-developed organizational and communications skills. The compensation for this role will be determined based on the individual’s level of experience and skillsets. To Apply: Please Submit a resume and a cover letter to: Upper Nicola Band, Attention: Human Resources Manager General Delivery, Douglas Lake, BC V0E 1S0 Email: hr@uppernicola.com Competition open until filled

Employment

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

LPNs & RCAs Wanted!

LPN - Graduation from a recognized program for Practical Nurses with current, full licensure. RCA - Grade 10 education plus graduation from a recognized Long Term Care Aide program or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Both positions require current First Aid Certiﬁcate Contact HR@emconservices.ca or call 250-378-4176 ext 330.

THERE’S MORE ONLINE KamloopsThisWeek.com merrittherald.com

Be a part of your community paper & comment online.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

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

Auctions

AUCTION

Dodd

H H ADVANCE NOTICE H H ONLINE AUCTIONS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 ESTATE • RCMP • STORAGE LOCKERS Bids Start Closing 9:00 AM Huge Selection of Items Over 1100 Lots Restaurant Equipment, Tools, Furniture, Coins, Antiques, Collectables, Electronics & Much More. VIEWING – THURS/FRI (NOV 11 & 12) 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Location: Dodds Auction 3311 - 28th Avenue, Vernon

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 - ESTATE ORCHARD EQUIPMENT & MORE Bids Start Closing 9:00 AM 4x4 Tractors, 5 Ton Flatbed Truck - Only 44,000 Km, John Deere 40C Dozer, Orchard Pickers, Sprayer Implements, Chainsaws, Tools, Golf Cart & Much More. VIEWING – THURS/FRI (NOV 18 & 19) 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location: Senger Road, East Kelowna Bid Online or Absentee Bids Accepted 3311 - 28 Avenue, Vernon • Subject to additions & deletions

www.doddsauction.com Photos & link to sales @ doddsauction.com CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

DODDS AUCTION 250-545-3259

Legal / Public Notices

2900 Pooley Ave the following vehicle will be auctioned on November 19, 2021 for non payment

Term to May 2022 with bonus offer for completion of term. Wages: LPN: $32.50/hr Care Aide: $24.00/hr When: Start immediately primarily to work on complex ﬂoor with 14 residents. Qualifications:

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.

1ST & 2ND YEAR MECHANICS

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SUDOKU

Employment

2003 Ford Escape VIN# 1FMYU93183KA59222 Debtor: Kelly Caldwell Amount Owing: 5,942.21 2017 Big Tex Dump Trailer VIN# 16VDX1629H4015097 Debtor: Mike’s Contracting Ltd Amount Owing: 5,850.14

2000 Subaru Legacy VIN# 4S3BH6355Y7302138 Debtor:Niazi Motors Ltd Amount Owing:6,885.09 1998 Toyota Tacoma VIN# 4TAPM62N3WZ140655 Debtor: Lincoln Connor Amount Owing: 6,661.59

ACROSS

1. Taxis 5. Mega energy unit (abbr.) 8. Single-strand break 11. Combinations of countries 13. Cutting tool 14. Small bay in Gulf of Maine 15. Actress Lathan 16. Chatter incessantly 17. Energy, style and enthusiasm 18. Simple shoe 20. Woman (French) 21. Abnormal rattling sound 22. Able to change

DOWN

1. Dan Rather’s old network 2. Expression of sorrow or pity 3. __ ﬁde (Latin) 4. Sign of healing 5. Warm-blooded vertebrate 6. Model 7. Of or relating to plants 8. Plant of the heath family 9. Where to weigh something 10. Internal structure 12. __ Paulo, city 14. South Slavic person 19. A way to record 23. Have already done 24. As much as one can hold

Looking for a New Career Direction? Discover a World of Possibilities in the Classifieds! Call604.630.3300 250-378-4721to toAdvertise advertise Call

25. Future butterﬂy 30. Used in cooking and medicine 31. A street for nightmares 32. French modernist painter 33. Dishonors 38. Integrated data processing 41. Frameworks 43. Apply new materials 45. Where merch is displayed 48. American ﬁgure skater Lipinski 49. Cycles per second 50. Oohed and __

55. Dark olive black 56. Peyton’s little brother 57. Plant in the bean family 59. A wife: __ covert 60. Born of 61. Arranges balls on the pool table 62. Title of Italian monk 63. Tooth caregiver 64. American feminist poet

25. Auburn legend Newton 26. Comedienne Gasteyer 27. Beloved dog Rin Tin __ 28. Midway between east and southeast 29. Call it a career 34. Former CIA 35. American time 36. Confederate general 37. Soviet Socialist Republic 39. Travel downward 40. Made red-blue 41. Vietnamese revolutionary Le Duc 42. Capital of Italy

44. Small bunches of flowers 45. Calvary sword 46. A distinctive, pleasant odor 47. A well-defined track or path 48. Cereal used to make flour 51. Retrospective analysis (abbr.) 52. Grayish white 53. Engrave 54. Famed men’s basketball program 58. Midway between south and southeast

Bring Home the Bacon!

Find your new job right here in your Classiﬁeds.

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or Call to advertise a job

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WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021 • 19

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Y o u r Local Business Directory ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING

FOR ALL YOUR PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING & BOOKKEEPING NEEDS COME SEE

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DanAlbas4COSN

Toll Free: 1-800-665-8711 www.danalbas.com

FLOWER SHOP • Bouquets • Arrangements • Plants • Local Made Giftware @missvickispetalsandplants 2052B Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC • 250-378-5575

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250-378-4241

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20 • WEDNESDAY, November 10, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

MerrittMerritt Real Estate Services Ltd.Ltd. HELPING SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! HELPINGYOU YOU IS IS WHAT WHAT WE WE DO! SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! Real Estate Services 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 2299 CHARTERS STREET

$365,000 12137A QUILCHENA AVENUE NICE BUNGALOW WITH TWO BEDROOMS ON MAIN FLOOR WITH A POSSIBLE THIRD IN BASEMENT. Located on a large corner lot in quiet part of town. Long term tenant in place.

$650,000 APPROX. 5000 SQUARE FEET OF RETAIL SPACE PLUS A 3 BED TENANTED SUITE ABOVE. This storefront location is right in the downtown core. Solid cement block construction on exterior walls. Plenty of parking in back plus curb side parking.

MLS#162602

MLS#163632

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

Managing Broker

Lest We Forget All those who died and served for our Freedom

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

$439,900 537 WILD ROSE DRIVE

2882 CRANNA CRESCENT

$299,900

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.

THIS LOVELY 4 BED, 2 FULL BATH HOME IS FULLY FINISHED TO INCLUDE KITCHEN WITH ISLAND OPEN TO LIVING AND DINING AREA, newer stainless appliances, main bath with nicely tiled tub surround, 2 generous sized bedrooms! Roof approx. 8 years old, hot water tank 3 years, furnace 1 year.

SOL

MLS#164394

MLS#164669

MLS# 161182

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

$145,000 18 BRECCIA DRIVE

112-308 CHARTRAND AVENUE

CUTE AND COZY UPDATED APARTMENT ON THE FIRST FLOOR, PERFECT FOR ONE OR TWO PEOPLE IN A VERY WELL MANAGED APARTMENT COMPLEX Includes updated 4 piece bathroom, gallery kitchen, nice patio door with views of pine trees and the bridge.

$469,900

SERENITY, SECURITY AND SPLENDOR IN THIS 4 BEDROOM SPLIT LEVEL, CUSTOM BUILT HOME. Home offers vaulted cedar ceilings on main floor, galley kitchen with new fridge and gas stove, many new updates such as floors, roof, central air, light fixtures, security system and more. MLS164512

MLS#164663 Owner/Broker

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

7 GARNET AVENUE

$529,900 308-400 OPAL DRIVE

$125,900

CENTRALLY LOCATED IN LOGAN LAKE, THIS COMPLETELY FURNISHED 1 BED APARTMENT unit on the 3rd floor in an attractive building with great views of the Highland Valley and mountains. Nicely maintained building with newer windows, siding, roof and exterior doors. Strata fee includes hot water radiant heat, caretaker, yard maintenance and intercom. MLS#163002

THIS BEAUTIFUL 5 BED FAMILY HOME HAS IT ALL AND IS SITUATED ON A 1/2 ACRE LOT. This home has been completely upgraded and is move in ready. New windows, plumbing, bathroom, new deck, all new appliances, new furnace and central air, gas fireplace, a new gas stove, outside BBQ directly connected to gas supply. MLS#164573

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

SL3-6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

$250,000 2543 JACKSON AVENUE

LOOKING FOR A LOT THAT OFFERS YOU A VIEW OF THE LAKE WHILE ONLY BEING A SHORT WALK TO THE LAKE, LOOK NO FURTHER.This fully serviced lake view lot is located in the beautiful Nicola Lakeshore Estates with a monthly strata fee of $125.00. This lot has a buildable area of 1,304.07 sqft. LOTS 1 & 2 ALSO AVAILABLE.

SOL

$449,900

LOTS OF ROOM FOR THE FAMILY IN THIS 4 BEDROOM, 2 1/2 BATHROOM 2 STOREY HOUSE WITH A LARGE YARD. This home has 2 bedrooms located on the upper and a master suite with a 2 piece en-suite & walk in closet. The home also has a built in garage

MLS#164810

MLS#162939

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

At Royal LePage Merritt, our clients count on our personal attention and expertise. Whether you are selling your home or looking to buy, we strive to provide the high quality service you deserve!