Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905
MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK
THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2021 •
MSS CASES
MSS has been confirmed to have seen two positive COVID-19 cases in its community.
themerrittherald •
> www.merrittherald.com
STABBING
/PAGE 3
A stabbing at Rocky Pines sent one man into emergency surgery at Royal Inland Hospital.
/PAGE 5
FREE
CENTS TALK a Kamloops native.
The Centennials added to their blue line by bringing in
/PAGE 15
NEW BEGINNING RISING FROM THE ASHES: Work is moving fast on rebuilding the historic Murray Church, after the church’s committee reached it’s fundraising goal two years after it was burned to the ground by arson. STORY /PAGE 10
Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other
A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929. Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri.: 10:00am - 3:00pm • Wednesday 1:00pm - 6:00pm / 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
On-call 24 Hrs. a day: 250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 • www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com
2 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts providing you with the highest level of care.
250.378.6941 https://legacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 2767 Eagle Cres
Janis Post
Karen Bonneteau
Ray Thompson
Brenda Thompson
Valerie Kynoch
Sarah Dickie
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
250-315-3672
2742 Eagle Cres
250-315-5178
250-315-3377
2706 Eagle Cres
250-315-8377
250-280-0994
4250 Falcon Crest Drive
250-280-0835
6403 Monck Park Road
SOLD MLS#153190
$110,900
Panoramic views of the beautiful Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up and coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at time of permit. No requirements to build by a certain date .
6415 Monck Park Road
MLS#155537
$112,000
Nice view lot in Phase 2 – Eagle Crescent. Build your dream home in the up and coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at time of permit.
MLS#153192
$112,900
Panoramic views of the beautiful Nicola Valley. Build your dream home in the up & coming Bench subdivision. City services need to be connected at the time of permit.
MLS#157597 $119,900 .29 ACRE Lot. Make a Fresh Start in this beautiful Grandview heights subdivision! Rest your eyes on the peaceful Nicola Val-
ley’s panoramic views. Choose the home you want to build in this preferred neighbourhood of new homes in Merritt. No GST
201-2295 Blair Street
Drive by and Drop off your Donations at Re/Max Legacy
SOLD
MLS#157320 $179,000 1 Acre lake view lot located in the Nicola Lake Shore Estates, just 2.5 hours from Lower Mainland, 1 hour from
MLS#159710
1st Annual Cozy Coat Campaign!
Kamloops & 1.5 hours from Kelowna. Crown Land backs onto this lot, easy access for ATV’S, walking & exploring.
101-1701 Menzies Street
$219,000
2 beds, 2 baths strata apartment. This home features an open design, a great entertaining kitchen w/ lots of cabinets, a center island with eating car, A/C & a nice patio located off kitchen/dining area
2152 Merritt Ave
$149,900
Build your dream home on this .899 acre lot overlooking the beautiful Nicola Lake. Only 3 hrs from Vancouver, 45 mins to Kamloops & just over 1 hour to the Okanagan you can’t go wrong.
DRIVE THROUGH COZY COAT! JANUARY 15, 2021 - 11AM TO 2PM
MLS#159211
MLS#157315
All donations will go to ASK Wellness. 8244 Highway 5A
1555 Chestnut Ave
$179,000
Very nice, move-in ready 2 bed, 1 bath ground floor apartment, located close to downtown Merritt, in the Sandpiper Apartments. This home has been renovated & it is a must see.
1481 Miller Road
MLS#158244 $260,000 Just over 10 acre located in beautiful Miller Estates, a
subdivision of custom built executive homes, just 10 minutes west of Merritt. Fantastic treed property to build your dream home and enjoy the Views.
377 Merritt Spences Bridge
1741 Lindley Creek Road
SOLD MLS#159066
$325,000
Good starter home in a nice central location. This home has 3 beds, a nice large lot w/ detached garage/workshop. Home needs some TLC, but is the perfect opportunity for your next fixer upper.
MLS#157733 $429,900 COUNTRY HOME or GET AWAY right across from trophy fishing Kidd Lake! 1700 sq ft of recently updated 2 bed main plus unfinished basement home, 16 x 30 garage for all your toys, & more.
MLS#159349 $474,900 West Coast Contemporary Themed Homes come to Merritt. These 1705 sq ft 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath luxury homes feature open concept designs, 10 ft ceilings, white acrylic kitchen, quartz countertops,
MLS#158376 $438,000 Investors! Just minutes from Merritt in the Lower Nicola area, this 1.2 acre parcel of land offers 6 income producing homes. The property is pre-existing, non-conforming for the current zoning.
MLS#150722 $485,000 Attention: Developers and Investors! Rare R3 acreages available. The lot size is 1.84 acres with medium density residential zoning. The location of the property is in the Country Pine Estates development.
2276 Garcia Street
370 Logan Lane
2360 Willgoose Road
129 Coldwater Road
1464 Miller Road
MLS#158342 $885,000 Custom-built Log post and beam house on 10 acres of nice usable land and only 10 minutes from Merritt. This home is nestled in the beautiful Nicola Valley with trails and lakes.
MLS#159274 $1,499,000 RETREAT & SERENITY in Miller Estates, panoramic views in an area of custom built homes and equestrian estate properties. Oversized great room with vaulted ceilings to complement bright open living area. Delightful decor.
SOLD MLS#158488 $599,900 HERITAGE 1920’s craftsman home reflecting the Art Deco era. This 5 + 1 beds 4 bath home is located on a double lot within walking distance to restaurants, downtown, parks, & recreation centre!
MLS#159194 $679,000 Expansive 3 bed, 2 bath rancher style home on .59 acre lot in Merritt’s premier subdivision. Carrington Heights offers a rural living experience moments away from the city center.
SOLD MLS#159658
$749,900
This 4 bed 2 bath country dream is waiting for you! Check out the 9.26+/-acre flat parcel complete w/ fenced horse paddocks, small animal pens, chicken coop, approx. 5 acres of hay fields & more!
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 3
www.merrittherald.com
LOCAL CASES
MSS community members test positive for COVID-19 It is the first two confirmed cases within a Merritt area school community. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD. COM Two members of the Merritt Secondary School community have tested positive for COVID-19. SD58 Superintendent Stephen McNiven first sent out a press release on Sunday, Jan. 10 to the families of those involved with MSS with the news of the initial case. “The safety and well-being of our students, families and staff remains our highest priority,” said McNiven. “Please be reassured that Merritt Secondary will continue to implement the strict protocols and procedures we have in
place so that children can continue to attend school as safely as possible.” McNiven said that the person is self-isolating at their home. “We are supporting Interior Health Authority as they undertake contact tracing to determine if any
Merritt sees rash of new cases in final week of the year
other members of our Merritt Secondary community were in contact with the person who tested positive for COVID-19, and if any additional steps are required.” The second case was confirmed in another release from McNiven on Jan. 12. Interior Health is now tak-
Morgan Hampton of low numbers LOCAL JOURNALISM of the virus in INITIATIVE REPORTER Merritt, with only three cases recorded in the commuAccording to nity in the month data released by the BC Centre for of December prior to the 27th. Disease Control Merritt isn’t (BC CDC), the only commuMerritt recorded nity in the Interior nine new cases Health Authority of COVID-19 that is experiencbetween Dec. 27, ing an increase in 2020 and Jan. 2, numbers, as there 2021. are currently ten This increase active outbreaks follows a period
Courtesy Corner
ing the appropriate measures: • The health authority is performing contact tracing; • The health authority will determine if anyone in the Merritt Secondary community was in contact with the persons who tested positive for COVID-19 while they were potentially infectious; • The health authority will determine if anyone in the Merritt Secondary community is a close contact that is required to self-isolate. Anyone contacted by IH due to the concern is asked to please follow their advice. Meanwhile, students are asked to continue going to school while contact tracing is underway, and that parents continue checking their child for health concerns each morning before school. “Our regular processes of cleaning and sanitization continue diligently to ensure that our physical spaces are ready for all students and staff.”
in the region. Interior Health President and CEO Susan Brown advised residents of the Interior that COVID cases were on the rise, and they were seeing an increase in transmission. “We are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases throughout Interior Health, so
please, stay home if you are feeling unwell, get tested, and use your layers of protection,” said Brown. As of Jan. 6, the community cluster at Big White Mountain Ski Resort had grown by more than two dozen additional cases, bringing the total number of cases in that cluster to 136.
INSIDE THE HERALD Opinion ---------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------ 15 Classifieds ---------- 17-18 Weather --------------------- 16
Online merrittherald.com
NO WAGE HIKE
In light of the financial difficulties many are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, council voted unanimously at Tuesday night’s council meeting to reject their annual wage increase.
Search ‘WAGE INCREASE’
BIZ WIZZES Council approved the community members that will sit on the Economic Development Committee at Tuesday night’s council meeting, settling on eleven members which includes two councillors.
Search ‘ECONOMIC’
FUNDS AVAILABLE Interior Savings’ annual Million Dollar Bursary program still has more than $500,000 in bursaries available, and they are encouraging Merritt students to apply.
Search ‘INTERIOR SAVINGS’
GAS STATION/CONVENIENCE STORE/PROPANE • AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS • VAPE PRODUCTS • GROCERY • HEALTH & BEAUTY PRODUCTS • FROZEN FOOD • FISHING BAIT • CLOTHING • SCOOP ICE CREAM • SLUSHIES • FRESH SUBS • FIREWORKS • GREETING CARDS • CAMPING SUPPLIES • COFFEE • PET FOOD
LUCKIEST STORE IN THE VALLEY: VALLEY: LottoMax winners: $25,951,985.90 & $12,000. & BC 49: $75,000
Hours. Mon - Sat. 6 am -10 pm
Sun. 7 am -10 pm
2
$
✁
OFF
NEW LOCATION OPENING SOON
2302 Nicola Ave. Any PROPANE TANK REFILL. One coupon per customer per visit. Valid at Courtesy Corner Only.
407 Highway 8, Lower Nicola • 250-378-9457
,
e of ly n or
ds e as g p
s, g d a
40 o n p s/
THURSDAY, July 30, 2020 44 •• THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 date, 2021
www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com
4 • THURSDAY, June 13, 2019
www.merrittherald.com
City of Merritt
CITY
to meet with Mayor Brown every YOU’RE INVITED! Wednesday 10:00 to meetfrom with Mayor Brownam everyto 1:00 pm
COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE City Meetings have resumed residents are All Council City Council Meetings will nowin-person be held and online with live Regular Council Meeting June 11, 2019 strongly links encouraged toat watch online via www.merritt.ca streaming available www.merritt.ca and on the City
of Merritt social media channels. Public input questions/ Regular Council Meeting - June26 25,- 7:00 2019 Regular Council Meeting - January PM information can be submitted prior to the Council Forksdale Avenue Public Hearing 6:00 PM Regular Council Meeting - July 9, 2019 meetings to Road communications@merritt.ca Lindley Creek Hearing - 5:00 PM Regular Council Public Meeting - July 23, 2019 Regular Council Meeting August94- -7:00 7 pm Regular Council Meeting - Febuary PM Regular Council Meeting - August 18 - 7 pm
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The City of Merritt would like to invite
PUBLIC NOTICE
Position: The City of Merritt is inviting applications for the position of CASUAL LIFEGUARD/ community members to view the 2021 INSTRUCTOR I.
Winter Guide to help PUBLIC TUESDAY 4th, 2020 atmaintain 7:00PM For complete HEARING details, visit Cityon of Merritt websiteActivity atAugust www.merritt.ca
active lifestyles while keeping safe. Current resumes reflecting applicants’ knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing
educationisand qualifications, andthat proof of andwill licenses be accepted prior to Notice hereby given a required Publiceducation Hearing be will held on Tuesday 4:00 p.m. 4th, Friday,2020 July 12,in2019 The Recreation Activity Guide available August theby:Council Chambers at Merritt CityisHall, located on the of Merritt with printed at 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC City with respect to website the following proposed Carole Fraser, Deputy Clerk/Human Resources Manager PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca copies available upon request. Zoning Bylaw 2284, 2020. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be Acontacted. copy of the proposed the Bylaw and other relevant documents may be viewed during normal business hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on Thursday Date Posted: Monday, June 17, 2019 July 23rd to Tuesday August 4th, 2020 at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt Posting Expires: Friday, July 12, 2019 BC, or online at www.merritt.ca
NEW PET LICENCING PROGRAM STARTING IN 2021! Anyone who wishes to address ROAD the aboveCLOSURE Bylaw will be given TEMPORARY The City of Merritt is moving to a new Pet Licencing program.
the opportunity at the Public Hearing to be heard in person, by a representative, This system will be ready in WHAT: January,Merritt so the pet licencing deadline Summer Nights Market or been by written on2021. all matters contained in the proposed Bylaw. has extendedsubmission, to February 28, WHEN: every Friday June 28th to August 30th 5:00pm to 10:00pm If you unable towill attend the Hearing, written submission must be The new are Docupet system allow you to Public register online, by mail, Block Quilchena Avenue byreceived phone, or inNO person atWHERE: City Hall.2000-2100 LATER THAN 12:00PM THURSDAY, JULY 30th, 2020, to ensure In addition, the new tags will be permanent tags with a choice of our standard municipal tag or their availability to Council at the Public Hearing. choose from hundreds of designer tags for your dog. We will be mailing/emailing all current Pet Owners a registration code and will Written submission can be provided bya letter any with of the following methods: be sending out updates via the City of Merritt social media channels. More info is available at www.docupet.com/ca Don McArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager
dmcarthur@merritt.ca PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 All submissions must include your name and street address. No letter, report or representation from the public will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning & Development Services Manager at 250-378-8620 or at dmcarthur@merritt. ca
page
in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall (second floor), 2185 Voght Street
Wednesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
In-person areHall currently phone in the Mayor’s meetings Office at City (secondpaused, floor), but 2185 Voghtand Street. video calls are encouraged to discuss issues and opportunities.
Interested citizens are welcome to stop by, say250-378-8634 hello and discuss Booking an appointment ahead of time is required by calling
issues and opportunities for the City, its residents and businesses.
If you would like to schedule a particular time to meet with the Mayor please contact Corporate Services at 250-378-8614
PLEASE A NOTICE OF PUBLIC CITY HALL NOTE COVID-19 HOURS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY City Hall will HEARING be reopened with SCHEDULED FOR hours. Position: The limited City of Merritt is inviting applications for the position of PUBLIC WORKS SEASONAL AUGUST 4, to2020 AT 7:00 PM IS ON PAGE 5 LABOURER. City Hall will be open the public from details, 10:00visit amCity to noon. For complete of Merritt website at www.merritt.ca
Although thereflecting Merrittapplicants’ City Hallknowledge, is Current resumes skills and abilities relevant to the position; detailing open, residents are encouraged education and qualifications, and proof oftorequired education and licenses will be accepted prior to 4:00 p.m. Monday, via July phone 08, 2019or by:email. send inquires Payments can Clerk/Human be made online Carole Fraser, Deputy Resources Manager www.merritt.ca/city-services/ POatBox 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca online-payment-options
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
A Notice for a Public Hearing Scheduled for 5:00 PM is on Page 8
Date Posted: Friday, June 21, 2019 January Posting Expires: Monday,26, July 2020 08, 2019at
A Notice for a Public Hearing Scheduled for TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE January 26, 2020, at 6:00 PM is on Page 9
WHAT: MSS GRAD WALK WHEN: June 20, 2019 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm WHERE: Merritt Senior Secondary High School to Nicola Valley Memorial Arena
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE WHAT: MSS GRAD CAR PARADE WHEN: June 21, 2019 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm WHERE: Merritt Rotary Park (2000 Block of Voght Street) to Merritt Civic Centre (1950 Mamette Avenue) NOTE: Parking will be reserved at Rotary Park and the Church from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm on June 22, 2019
WATERING RESTRICTIONS
6:00AM SCHEDULE - 8:00AMOFand 20217:00PM REGULAR- 10:00PM
EVEN ADDRESSES MEETINGS OF COUNCIL Schedule of 2021 Regular Meetings of Council for the City of Merritt toMon/Wed/Fri be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, B.C. commencing at 7:00 p.m., ODD unless Council resolves to hold a meeting elsewhere or at a ADDRESSES different time. 2021 Regular Meeting Schedule Tues/Thurs/Sat Community Policing Office Reopens • January 12th & 26th • May 11th & 25th •SPRINKLERS: September 21st AUTOMATIC As of Monday, July 27th, 2020 the City of Merritt Community Policing Office • February 9th & 23rd • June 8th & 22nd • October 12th & 26th on your respective (CPO) will reopen to the public. The Community Policing Office will be open • March 9th & 23rd • July 20th • November 9thdays & 23rd by appointment only for bike registrations, crime prevention information, • April 6th & 20th • August 24th • December 14th midnight to 4:00 AM and program inquiries. Tourism Merritt VISIT MERRITT *NO SPRINKLING SUNDAYS � ToConnect book an appointment phone thewebsite 250-378-3955 orTOURISM email with us on our new tourism and social media.cpo@merritt.ca. TOURISM FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO www.tourismmerritt.com • #ExploreMerritt TH For more information on the CPO programs and services please visit Effective May 1ST to September T 30T www.merritt.ca/community-policing
Including safe visiting advice and local services www.tourismmerritt.ca
VISIT TOURISM MERRITT VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO
#ExploreMerritt
� � TOURISM
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 5
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
POLICE FILES Man arrested after firing weapon Morgan Hampton RCMP Southeast LOCAL JOURNALISM District. “The INITIATIVE REPORTER Southeast District Emergency Merritt RCMP Response Team are investigating was immediafter a man allegately deployed to edly discharged a Merritt to assist, firearm in what while front line appears to be a officers responded dispute with a neighbour in Kane to the scene to assess the situaValley, just south tion.” of Merritt. “Our local “On January front-line officers 9, 2021 just before worked quickly to 8 p.m., Merritt tactically extract a RCMP responded man and a woman to a 9-1-1 emerfrom the home gency call after that had been a Sun Valley fired upon,” states resident allegSgt. Josh Roda edly fired a nonof the Merritt restricted firearm RCMP. towards a neigh“The pair were bouring residence unable to safely during a dispute,” escape from the reads a release potential danger from the BC on their own.”
Merritt RCMP were assisted by front line officers of the Central Interior Traffic Services and the Kamloops RCMP Integrated Road Safety Unit. Each are a part of the BC RCMP Traffic Services, who also assisted with containing the property. The suspect, a 44-year-old Merritt man, was taken into custody by RCMP Southeast District Emergency Response Team without any further incident. A search of the suspect’s residence led to the discovery and seizure of a shotgun.
“The BC Prosecution Service has approved criminal charges against Christopher Jonathan Skidmore including uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, careless use or storage of a firearm and unlawfully discharging a firearm,” concludes the statement. If you witnessed the incident or have any additional information and have not yet spoken to police, you are asked to contact Merritt RCMP at 250378-4262.
Stabbing at Rocky Pines
Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER
Merritt RCMP have released a statement regarding a stabbing incident which took place in Lower Nicola on Sunday. “On January 10, 2021, Merritt RCMP responded
to the Rocky Pines IR in Lower Nicola for a complaint of an assault,” said Cpl. Derrick Francis of Merritt RCMP. “Police arrived to find that one of the two combatants had multiple stab wounds. The most serious of which was a puncture wound to their abdomen.
The injuries required immediate transport to the Royal Inland Hospital and emergency surgery. The victim remains in hospital. The suspect was arrested on scene and also taken to hospital with minor injuries. Charges will be forwarded for Crown’s consideration.”
FAMILY LITERACY WEEK January 24th to 30th
Visit literacymerritt.com for the calendar of events
Melody Simon “Your Merritt Real Estate Professional” 2151 QUILCHENA AVENUE An excellent revenue property and thriving business. This well maintained and wonderfully upgraded building is home to Brambles Bakery! There are approximately 4000 sq ft on the main floor that house the eatery including a separate room to lease out or expand your services. Upstairs you’ll find 2, 2 bedroom apartments that melodyproperty2@gmail.com currently have good tenants. SPECIALIZING IN: This business is turn-key Residential, Commercial & Farm and immaculate.
Cell: 250-315-8539
RE/MAX Real Estate (Kamloops) 258 Seymour St, Kamloops, BC
MLS#159892
$785,000
REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPY SERVICES IN MERRITT! Call 250-376-1141 for appointment
NORTH KAMLOOPS PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC Manual Therapy • Exercise Therapy • Post-Surgical or Post-Fracture Rehabilitation • Sports Injuries • Dry Needling • Home Exercise Programs
Email: nkamloopsphysio@gmail.com • www.northkamloopsphysiotherapy.com
6 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
VIEWPOINT
EDITORIAL
STUDENTS AND
Welcome back, hockey!
TEACHERS: SEND
It seems like forever ago that the Tampa Bay Lightning bested the Dallas Stars in the Cup Final in September. The JAKE COURTEPATTE World Junior HERALD Championship EDITOR earlier this month provided some sporting relief, a certain sigh of the same variety comes this week as the NHL season begins. I don’t think anyone can make the argument that playing to an empty rink will be the same viewing experience as one with 20,000 fans in it. They can pipe in all the canned cheering that they want, but it just doesn’t have the same feel. Where the lack of butts in seats should be made up is on the ice with the new divisional format. Who isn’t excited for an all-Canadian division? And hey, even if you don’t like the new format, you have to admit, it’s nice to know that a Canadian team is guaranteed to play in the Stanley Cup semifinals. I myself am a Leafs fan (I know, booo), but also as a fan in general of every Canadian team west of Ontario, hey, why not do what every sports fan loves to do, and drop some Canuck-themed hot takes. - Quinn Hughes could reach to be a Norris candidate. He’s still so young, but so gifted at passing the puck and being in the right position at the right time. - I have a soft spot for Alex Edler. He will lead the league in blocked shots. - Thatcher Demko will run away with the starting goalie position over Braden Holtby. (Okay, maybe those weren’t so hot.)
Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
MERRITT HERALD
www.merrittherald.com
US YOUR ART FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED EACH WEEK! (EMMA DONCASTER, GRADE 1.) SUBMISSIONS ARE PRINTED ON A FIRST COME, FIRST MERN210114_A
SERVE BASIS.
DYER: World does not rely on American democracy If I have to read one more hand-wringing article about the ‘crisis of American democracy’ and what it means for the world, GWYNNE DYER I’m going to THE WORLD retch. STAGE The last straw was an article in the ‘New Yorker’ this week by Adam Gopnik, an accomplished journalist whom I usually admire. It was called ‘What We Get Wrong About America’s Crisis of Democracy’, and the strapline read: ‘The interesting question is not what
Editor Jake Courtepatte newsroom@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
causes authoritarianism but what has ever suspended it.’ No, that’s the wrong question. It assumes, as Gopnik says, that “The default condition of humankind is not to thrive in broadly egalitarian and stable democratic arrangements that get unsettled only when something happens to unsettle them. The default condition of humankind, traced across thousands of years of history, is some sort of autocracy.” Gopnik grew up in Canada, but he seems to have drunk the American KoolAid. That is the familiar mythology in which the United States is not only the first mass democracy but the indispensable one, the shining example without which the others would wander hopelessly in the darkness. Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Morgan Hampton reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241
That’s not true. Democracy, not autocracy, is the default mode political system. Almost every dictator in the world holds fake elections so he can claim legitimacy, however fraudulently. No democratic leaders falsely claim to be dictators or tyrants (although some, like Trump, Bolsonaro in Brazil, Orbán in Hungary and Duterte in the Philippines, secretly aspire to it). So default mode democracy wins in a walk. This was not true before the 18th century. There are indeed “all those thousands of years of history” when the norm was “some form of autocracy”. But before that there are all those hundreds of thousands of years of pre-history when all humans lived as equals, reaching their See ‘DEMOCRACY’ Page 7 decisions by Sales Representative Office Administrator Ken Couture kcouture@aberdeenpublishing.com 250-378-4241 Making Advertising Work For You.
2090 Granite Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241 Fax (250) 378-6818
Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
www.merrittherald.com
THURSDAY Date, 2021 • 7
OPINION
Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com
ALBAS: BC waiting on more vaccine shipments By now you have heard that COVID19 vaccines are being distributed worldwide, including within Canada. Currently two vaccines have been DAN ALBAS approved for use by VIEW FROM Health Canada; the THE HILL Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Without getting into the technical details, both vaccines require two doses to be deemed effective. Pfizer-BioNTech requires a second dose to be given 21 days after the first dose, while Moderna is 28 days apart from the first dose. The timing between the first dose and the second dose is important, given the limited supply of available vaccine. For example, by the end of last week British Columbia had received 54,625 doses combined of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccine. In turn 28,209 of these doses have now already been administered to those who fall under Stage 1 priority. Who is Stage 1 priority here in BC? A brief summary of this list includes “residents, staff and essential visitors to long-term care
and assisted-living residences.” In addition, “Individuals in hospital or community awaiting a long-term care placement” as well as “Health care workers providing care for COVID-19 patients in settings like ICU, emergency departments, medical/surgical units and paramedics”. Remote and isolated Indigenous communities are also included in Stage 1.
‘‘
‘Herein lies the challenge.’ — MP Dan Albas on shortage of vaccine supply needed for second dose
Some have looked at the 54,625 doses of vaccine delivered to B.C. and questioned why only 28,209 doses have been administered to date, pointing out this vaccination rate is only around 51%. Herein lies the challenge. Since two doses are required per person, the 54,625 doses allows for 27,312 individuals to
receive both shots of the vaccine. BC has now administered over 28,000 doses. That means that there is not enough vaccine supply available for all of those vaccinated individuals to receive their second dose. The supply to give those required second doses has not yet arrived, here in BC. This additional vaccine supply must first land in Canada, then is transported to BC and finally distributed to various vaccination sites within our province to be available for those needing the required second dose within that 21-28 day window. This illustrates the immense challenges that Provincial Health Authorities are dealing with given the very limited COVID supply that the Federal Government has managed to procure. For some context, while BC has received 54,625 doses, nearby Washington State, with a population of 2.6 million people more than BC, received over six times more doses at 358,025. It is important to understand, with the limited supply of COVID vaccine here in BC, citizens must continue to take all precautions as a result. To put it bluntly, it will be some time before the vaccine delivery will make a significant impact. My question this week: Are you satisfied with how the vaccine is being distributed in Canada? I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or call toll free 1-800-665-8711.
From the Herald archives: January, 1965
LUCKY ESCAPE FOR FAMILY The Hubbards arrived back in Merritt Saturday evening, having returned from a trip to Seattle. Usually, they make a pretty early start. However, had they started early on Saturday, there is a very good chance that they would not be alive now. Bert Hubbard reckons that they would have been just about under the mountain when the Hope Slide came down. On the road they started to work out times and distances, and realized what a narrow escape they had.
LETTERS POLICY
Democracy a basic human value From Page 6
discussion and consensus, in little hunter-gatherer bands. We know this because some of those bands, living in out-of-the-way places, survived long enough for anthropologists to study them – and they were all egalitarian. In fact, they had no formal leaders, and the worst social crime was for one adult man to give an order to another. They didn’t hold elections, because the bands were hardly ever more than a hundred strong and
they could just talk things over. But the core belief of democracy is that everybody has equal rights including a share in the decision-making process, and our distant ancestors all believed that. That basic human belief went underground when the first mass societies appeared around 6,000 years ago. The only way to run them was from the top down, by force, because without mass communications (and they hadn’t even invented writing yet) there was no way for tens or hundreds of thousands of people to make decisions
HARD ICE-CREAM, FRESH SALADS, COLD SANDWICHES AVAILABLE! BUTTER CHICKEN • SAMOSAS • FRESH FISH & CHIPS
Two week SPECIAL HOURS: Mon. - Thurs: 10:30 am - 6 pm & Fri.: 10:30 am - 7 pm 250-378-6292
Revolution came only thirteen years later (it even abolished slavery), and democracy just kept spreading. By now half the governments on the planet are genuinely elected, and the other half pretend to be. Democracy has nothing to do with being American or ‘Western’. China was the first country with printing, and if it had also had mass literacy it could well have been the first country to have a democratic revolution. American democracy will probably survive its current difficulties. Democracy as the default mode in the world certainly will.
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.
Full Order Butter Chicken
1 pc Fish & Chips 3pc Chicken Strips
with Basmati Rice
Only.....
Only.....
EAT IN OR TAKE OUT Starting January 14 - 27, 2021 2052 Quilchena Ave.
together as equals. So the tyrants took over and had a very long run, but the belief in equality never died, as all the slave and peasant revolts attest. And by the 18th century a kind of mass communications had finally emerged. Just the printing press plus mass literacy, but that meant everybody could get back to making decisions together as equals, and so the democratic revolutions began. The United States was the first, perhaps because it then had the highest rate of literacy in the world. The far more radical French
and coleslaw
9 9 99 + tax
99 + tax
with fries and gravy
Only.....
9
99 + tax
8www.merrittherald.com • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
www.merrittherald.com THURSDAY Date, 2021 • 5
PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021 at 5:00PM Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 with respect to the below proposed Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendments. Due to COVID-19, the hearing will be livestreamed on the City of Merritt website (www.merritt.ca). Written or electronic submissions can be made by prior to January 25 at 12:00 pm. SUBJECT PROPERTY:
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road)
SHOWN ON PLAN B1245 TOWNSHIP 91 KAMLOOPS DIVISION YALE DISTRICT EXCEPT COAL AND EGRESS AND REGRESS FOR WORKING GETTING AND CARRYING AWAY COAL AND ALSO EXCEPT Plan 12534 Zoning Bylaw: That the Official Zoning Map, being Schedule “A” of the City of Merritt Zoning Bylaw No. 2284, 2020, is amended by changing the zoning designation of the parcel legally described as Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road) from “Low Density Residential (R2)”, “Medium Density Residential (R7)” and “Future Development (FD)” to “Medium Density Residential (R7)”, “Mobile Home Park (R5)” and “Park & Cemetery (P1)”. A copy of the proposed Bylaw amendments may be viewed Monday to Friday during the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm from January 4 to January 26, 2021 at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, or online at any time at www.merritt.ca Anyone who wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given the opportunity by written or electronic submissions on all matters contained in the proposed Bylaw amendments. Submissions must be received NO LATER THAN 12:00PM MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2021, to ensure their availability to Council at the Public Hearing. Written submission can be provided by any of the following methods: Email: planning@merritt.ca In Person: City Hall, 2185 Voght Street 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Mail: PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 Subject Line: For Inclusion in Public Hearing Agenda Attn: Don McArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager Electronic submission can be provided by any of the following methods:
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS: Official Community Plan: The Official Community Plan Land Use Designation Map for Collettville is amended to change the parcel legally described as Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road) from “Future Development” and “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces” to “Residential” and “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces”, and The Official Community Plan Land Use Designation Maps for Collettville and South Merritt and the Official Community Plan Sector Map are amended to remove the parcels legally described as Part1 SW Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Except Plan 707 B1194 B1245 B3015 H18324 & KAP50322, PID: 013-022-563 (Lindley Creek Road), Lot A Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP92785, PID: 028-832-442 (1227 Midday Valley Road), Lot 1 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP76661, PID: 026-092-913 (Willow Avenue), Parcel A Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592 BEING A CONSOLIDATION OF LOTS 1 2 & 3, PID: 028-128-672 (1295 Midday Valley Road), Lot 4 Plan KAP83592 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25, PID: 027-029-646 (1287 Midday Valley Road), Lot 5 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-654 (1283 Midday Valley Road), Lot 6 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-662 (1279 Midday Valley Road), Lot 7 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-671 (1275 Midday Valley Road), Lot 8 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-689 (1271 Midday Valley Road), Lot 9 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-697 (1267 Midday Valley Road), Lot 10 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-701 (1263 Midday Valley Road), Lot 11 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-719 (1259 Midday Valley Road), Lot 12 Section 16 Township 91 Land District 25 Plan KAP83592, PID: 027-029-727 (1255 Midday Valley Road), Parcel B (Plan B1194) OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 16 TOWNSHIP 91 KAMLOOPS DIVISION YALE DISTRICT EXCEPT COAL, and PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 SECTION 16
Save the video or audio recording to a USB drive and drop it off at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, from January 4 to 25, 2021 between the hours of 10:00 am – 12:00 pm; or Upload a video to your YouTube channel or other public video sharing site and email the link for that submission to planning@merritt.ca; or Send a direct message in written, video, or audio form to the City of Merritt Facebook account (www.facebook.com/CityofMerritt) that clearly states it is for inclusion at the Public Hearing on January 26th 2021; or Telephone City Hall at 250-378-4224 and leave a voicemail that clearly states it is a submission for inclusion at the Public Hearing on January 26th, 2021. Please note that electronic submissions may result in personal data being stored outside of Canada, and not being subject to Canadian laws on data protection, privacy, and access. If you do not wish to risk this, please make a written submission. All electronic submissions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an acknowledgement of a submission, please contact City Hall to arrange for re-submission, or an alternative method. All submissions must include your name and street address. No letter, video, report, or representation from the public will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning & Development Services Manager at 250-378-8620 or dmcarthur@merritt.ca This Notice is published in accordance with Section 466 of the Local Government Act. Note: this is the first of two consecutive Public Notices.
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 9 www.merrittherald.com
6www.merrittherald.com • THURSDAY, date, 2021
PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2021 at 6:00PM Public Notice
Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on PUBLIC January HEARING26, on2021 TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, below 2021 atproposed 6:00PM Tuesday, with respect to the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendments. Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held on Tuesday, Due to COVID-19, the hearing will be livestreamed on the January 26, 2021 with respect to the below proposed Official Community Cityand of Merritt website (www.merritt.ca). Written electronic Plan Zoning Bylaw amendments. Due to COVID-19, theor hearing will be submissionson can made by prior to January 25 at 12:00 pm. livestreamed thebe City of Merritt website (www.merritt.ca). Written or electronic submissions can be made by prior to January 25 at 12:00 pm.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
SUBJECT PROPERTY:
SUBJECT PROPERTY: Lot A District Lot 121 And of Section 22 Township 91 Kamloops
Division Yale District Plan KAP79511, PID: 026-478-129 (2587
Lot A District Lot 121 And of Section 22 Township 91 Kamloops Division Forksdale Yale District Avenue) Plan KAP79511, PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue)
protection, privacy, and access. If you do not wish to risk this, please mak a written Anyone who submission. wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given
the opportunity by written or electronic submissions on all matters All electronic submissions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive a contained in the proposed Bylaw amendments. Submissions acknowledgement of a submission, please contact City Hall to arrange fo must be received NO LATER THANmethod. 12:00PM MONDAY, JANUARY re-submission, or an alternative 25, 2021, to ensure their availability to Council at the Public All submissions must include your name and street address. No lette Hearing.
video, report, or representation from the public will be received by Counc the conclusion of the Public Hearing. are publ submission can be provided by anyAllofsubmissions the following Writtenafter information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection methods: Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning Development Services Manager at 250-378-8615 Email: dmcarthur@merritt.ca planning@merritt.ca
In Person: City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Monday to Friday from This- Notice is published in accordance with Section 466 of the Loc 10:00 am 12:00 pm Government Act. Note: this is the first of two consecutive Public Notices. Mail: PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 Subject Line: For Inclusion in Public Hearing Agenda Attn: Don McArthur, Planning & Development Services Manager Electronic submission can be provided by any of the following methods: Save the video or audio recording to a USB drive and drop it off at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, from January 14 to 25, 2021 between the hours of 10:00 am – 12:00 pm; or Upload a video to your YouTube channel or other public video sharing site and email the link for that submission to planning@ merritt.ca; or Send a direct message in written, video, or audio form to the City of Merritt Facebook account (www.facebook.com/ CityofMerritt) that clearly states it is for inclusion at the Forksdale Avenue Public Hearing on January 26th 2021; or
PROPOSED PROPOSED AMENDMENTS: AMENDMENTS: Official Community Plan: Official Community The Official CommunityPlan: Plan Land Use Designation Map for North Nicola The OfficialtoCommunity Plan legally Land Use Designation forLot North is amended change the parcel described as Lot AMap District 121 Section Township 91to Kamloops Yale District KAP79511, Nicola 22 is amended changeDivision the parcel legallyPlan described as PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue) from “Future Development” to Lot A District Lot 121 Section 22 Township 91 Kamloops Division “Residential” and “Parks, Schools & Open Spaces”.
Yale District Plan KAP79511, PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue) from “Future Development” to “Residential” and Zoning Bylaw: “Parks, & Open Spaces”. That the Schools Official Zoning Map, being Schedule “A” of the City of Merritt
Zoning Bylaw No. 2284, 2020, is amended by changing the zoning designation of the parcel Lot A District Lot 121 Section 22 Township 91 Zoning Bylaw: Kamloops Division District Plan KAP79511, PID: “A” 026-478-129 (2587 That the Official Yale Zoning Map, being Schedule of the City of Forksdale Avenue) from “Single Family Residential (R1)” to “Medium Merritt Zoning Bylaw No. 2284, 2020, is amended by changing Density Residential (R7)” and “Park & Cemetery (P1)”.
the zoning designation of the parcel Lot A District Lot 121 Section Township 91 Kamloops Yalemay District Plan KAP79511, A22copy of the proposed Bylaw Division amendments be viewed Monday to PID: 026-478-129 (2587 Forksdale Avenue) “Single Family Friday during the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm fromfrom January 14 to January 26, 2021 at City Hall,to2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, or online at and any time at Residential (R1)” “Medium Density Residential (R7)” “Park www.merritt.ca & Cemetery (P1)”.
Anyone who wishes to address the above Bylaw will be given the A copy ofbythe proposed Bylaw amendments may be viewed opportunity written or electronic submissions on all matters contained in Monday to Friday the hours of 10:00am 12:00pm the proposed Bylaw during amendments. Submissions musttobe receivedfrom NO LATER THAN MONDAY, 25, 2021, to ensure their January 14 to12:00PM January 26, 2021JANUARY at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, availability to Council at the Public Hearing. Merritt BC, or online at any time at www.merritt.ca
Telephone City Hall at 250-378-8615 and leave a voicemail that clearly states it is a submission for inclusion at the Forksdale Avenue Public Hearing on January 26th, 2021. Please note that electronic submissions may result in personal data being stored outside of Canada, and not being subject to Canadian laws on data protection, privacy, and access. If you do not wish to risk this, please make a written submission. All electronic submissions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an acknowledgement of a submission, please contact City Hall to arrange for re-submission, or an alternative method. All submissions must include your name and street address. No letter, video, report, or representation from the public will be received by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. All submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. For more information, please contact the Planning & Development Services Manager at 250-378-8615 or dmcarthur@merritt.ca This Notice is published in accordance with Section 466 of the Local Government Act. Note: this is the first of two consecutive Public Notices.
10 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
REBUILDING HISTORY
Murray Church hits fundraising goal Morgan Hampton LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER The Murray Church rebuild project has officially reached its fundraising goals. Jan. 11 marks the second anniversary since the historic church was destroyed by arson. The goal was to raise $15,000 by this date, which would be used to build a replica of the church at its original site. “The Murray Church Fundraising Challenge goal was to raise $15,000.00 by Jan 11, 2021, two years since the arson fire destroyed the historic church,” said spokesperson Richie Gage. “With matching funding, we have reached that goal. The Trinity United Church congregation, Church Board, Trustees and The Murray Church Fundraising Committee wish to offer our thanks and appreciation to all the donors in the Nicola Valley and surrounding communities.” Construction is ongoing and is projected to be completed in the spring of 2021, weather permitting.
WE VALUE BC With concerns for our health, safety and f inances, the past year has been a challenging time for us all. At BC Assessment, we know that your home matters. You can expect reliability and accuracy when you receive your 2021 property assessment, based on the market value as of July 1, 2020. If you haven’t received your assessment notice or you have concerns, we are here to help. Connect with us at bcassessment.ca or at 1-866-valueBC.
Development is well underway at the rebuild of the historic Murray Church. Photo submitted
“Future plans include providing a toilet facility, memorial display, furnishings and landscaping around the church,” added Gage. Gage added that the Trinity United Church congregation, Church Board, Trustees and The Murray Church Fundraising Committee wish to offer their thanks and appreciation to all the donors in the Nicola Valley
Adopt a Pet
View your feature best friend @ www.angelsanimalrescue.ca
To make an appointment to meet your new best friend Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 (250) 574-1316 email: aarsrescue@gmail.com
“Breaking the Chain of Abuse” Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. We are a Registered Charity - 847488269RR0001.
This feature brought to you by...
PURITY FEED
Co. Ltd
We’ve got all you need at Purity Feed Horse, Poultry, Livestock & Pet Supplies KAMLOOPS: 471 Okanagan Way 250-372-2233
MERRITT: 1690 Voght Street 250-378-4432
and surrounding communities. If you would like to donate to these ongoing and future projects you can still do so by mailing a cheque payable to Murray Church Project at PO Box 175, Merritt BC, V1K1B8. Or by making a deposit to the Murray Church account at any branch of CIBC.
Access and compare property information using our free assessment search service at bcassessment.ca.
The deadline to f ile an appeal of your assessment is February 1, 2021. For more property information and assessment highlights, visit bcassessment.ca
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 11
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS WEATHER HAZARDS
Senior and disabled safety a hot topic in snow clearing talk City council discussed possible methods to improve Merritt’s snow clearing abilities at Tuesday’s meeting. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Since the historic snowfall that hit Merritt just days before Christmas, snow clearing and snow removal has been the talk of the town. Recognizing so, City of Merritt CAO Sean Smith penned an open letter last week, often being candid about being unprepared as well as giving some budget numbers. In this past Tuesday’s regular city council meeting, staff
and council spent nearly two hours discussing Merritt’s snow clearing system. Public Works Manager Charlie Henderson was on-hand to give a Powerpoint presentation outlining possible changes in the budget to incorporate both more staffing and more equipment. As is often the case, heard around town and throughout social media, one of the main concerns brought up was that of
the safety of both seniors and the disabled. “One of the main things we need is better support for both
Sean Smith
CAO, City of Merritt
seniors and the disabled when it comes to sidewalk and driveway clearance,” said Smith. The topic of the failed ‘Snow Angel’ program from last
year was brought up. Though a good number of seniors and disabled people signed up, not enough volunteers signed up to give it legs. One thing that may have gone wrong, said Smith, is that it may have been too much of a burden for people to sign up for a single commitment with one individual. “That was a lot of the feedback we had.” There is a light at the end of the tunnel in the situation, however: council has heard that United Way, through its ‘Better at Home’ program, is setting up in Merritt. In fact, the coordinator for the
program’s first day on the job was Jan. 13. Smith said that he and staff hope to work with United Way, as well as other community organizations to help mitigate the problem. “We’ve had excellent conversations with the Merritt Centennials, and potentially utiliz-
ing their support for a service like this.” Merritt also received $50,000 last year from forestry community grant funding. $10,000 of that money has been earmarked for such a project. “We would like to scale this up so we can have more direct support, and try to be able
to meet the needs Brown said that of our residents. the Merritt branch Instead of relying of the Better at on individual volHome program unteers, we would will be putting sort of reach out to snow removal as broader organizatheir top priority. tions to assist and “We recognize fill that need.” that the seniors are Smith said he having difficulty and staff hope to with the snow at have the revamped this point in time,” Snow Angels said Brown. program up and There were running before the at least 40 appliend of this winter. See ‘SNOW’ Page 14 Mayor Linda
Merritt introduces new pet licensing program licensed in the City of Merritt, as per bylaw 2241. New tags issued by the City of Merritt will be permanent tags, offering a choice between the standard municipal tag or hundreds of designer tags. The new system will allow for registration online, by mail, by phone or in person at City
Quilchena Canna Company
Hall. Due to the recent launch of this program, a first for Merritt, the pet licensing deadline has been extended to Feb. 28. For more information contact Sean Strang, Deputy Director of Finance and IT at 250-378-8635 or by email at sstrang@merritt. ca.
Book Your Lab Appointment Online • Sign up in minutes • Have friends or family book online for you • Have your doctor’s office book for you* *Participating locations only
www.labonlinebooking.ca Or Book by phone at: 1-877-740-7747 Walk-in service also available
Quilchena Cannabis Co.
MU
Morgan Hampton point in their LOCAL JOURNALISM lives. To help INITIATIVE REPORTER reunite lost pets with their owners, DocuPet provides The City of a ‘HomeSafe’ serMerritt is going vice which enables to be using a new anyone who finds pet licensing proyour missing pet gram for 2021, to file an online changing over to report that is then the DocuPet syssent to you immetem. diately. According Although to the DocuPet DocuPet is availwebsite, one in able for cats and three pets go dogs, dogs are missing at some required to be
S T BE
19+
For more information stop by Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC or call 250-378-5
420
12••THURSDAY, THURSDAY,January January14, 14,2021 2021 10
www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com
CENTURY 21 Moving Real Estate
#102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8 ®
Doug Beech (Owner) 250-378-7392
BC LTD.
250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100 6581 MONCK PARK ROAD
1975 2ND AVE.
movingrealestate.c21.ca #42, 254 HWY. 8
1826 DOUGLAS STREET
D SOL
1802 BLAIR ST
NEW
NEW
On 1 acre overlooking Nicola Lake. This West Coast contemporary home features open design, 3 bedrms on main + 2 down, 4 baths, S/S appliances, vaulted ceilings and walkout bsmt.
Great 3 bedrm, 2 bath family home on a quiet street in central location. Lots of options for carport, shop or carriage house. Lots of storage. 2 wrap around decks overlooking large back yard.
3 bedroom, 3 level row house with 2 pce bath on main, 4 pce bath on upper level with bedrooms. Has newer HT want & furnace. Close to elementary school. Good investment.
2020 mobile home with 2 bedrms, master bedrm with W/I closet and 3 pce ensuite. Home has 10 yr warranty. Comes with natural gas S/S stove, S/S fridge & dishwasher, and new washer/dryer. Laminate flooring
Investors – side by side duplex in downtown Merritt close to shopping & amenities. Great revenue property. Each side has 2 bedrms, carport & laundry plus separate meters. Close to bus route
#3212
#3228
#3221
#3236
#3237
$1,099,000
2800 MCLEAN PLACE
$429,000
$209,900 1801 MENZIES ST
#209, 2514 SPRING BANK
$205,900
$295,000
1801 QUILCHENA AVE
390 COYLE PLACE
D
SOL 5 bedrm, 4 bath home, very clean with some upgrades. Private living & dining room , spacious kitchen that opens to family room.Basement has big rec.rm, 2 bedrms & bathrm. Large sundeck in fenced backyard, nicely landscaped. RV parking
New 2 storey townhouse in Nicola Bluffs with great views. Open concept kitchen with Quartz countertops, vinyl plank floors, gas F/P 3 bedrms up, 4 baths and full bsmt. Has $4,000 appliance package & central A/C.
3 bedroom half duplex with some newer flooring, roof and windows. Large kitchen with eating area and living room on main floor. Nicely kept yard. Currently tenanted.
1288 sq.ft. rancher in good area of downtown. Within walking distance to shopping & amenities. Has 3 bedrooms & 2 baths. Currently tenanted. 24 hrs notice
Riverfront property in nice Lower Nicola location on approx. 2 acres with great shop with 3 phase power supply. Comes with unfinished rancher of 1686 sq.ft. House is framed and with roof. Home plans available. Septic is installed.
#3233
#3230
#3224
#3226
#3208
$489,900
2770 PEREGRINE WAY
$414,900 +GST
2760 PEREGRINE WAY
$239,900
2861 MCLEAN PLACE
$249,900
2749 PEREGRINE WAY
$450,000 1809 MENZIES ST
NEW
D
SOL
Spacious new home with open concept floor plan, spectacular views & high quality finishing. 2 bedrms up, master on the main & 2 more down, 4 baths & full unfin. Bsmt. New Home Warranty. Double garage
New executive family home on the Bench with views. 3 bedrms, 2 baths, designer kitchen with quartz counters, gas F/P in living room, 5 pce ensuite & a full unfinished basement. GST applies
Level lot in quiet area within few minutes drive of all amenities. Zoned R2, could build a duplex or single family home with legal suite. Finished homes in this area selling in $500,000 range.
New custom executive home with fantastic views. 3 bedrms on the main with open concept floor plan. Master has 4 pce ensuite & W/I closet. Large private deck in back off the family room.
3 bedroom half duplex in good area with lane access. Has newer roof & some newer flooring. Large kitchen with eating area and large living room. Some windows replaced. Currently tenanted
#3205
#3203
#3239
#3204
#3225
$739,9000 + GST
$739,900
$105,000
$639,900+ GST
$239,900
THINKING OF SELLING? NOW is the time to get your home on the market. Our inventory is low and you’ll have less competition.
Call us for a FREE Market Evaluation.
movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c2
THURSDAY, 11 THURSDAY January January 14, 14, 2021 2021 •• 13
www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com
Melonie Ivanic 778-803-6554
Don Gossoo, Managing Broker
900 KANE VALLEY RD
INDICATIONS ARE THAT IT WILL CONTINUE TO BE A SELLER’S MARKET AS INVENTORY IS LOWER THAN NORMAL, AND PRICES WILL CONTINUE TO RISE.
Personal Real Estate Corporation
2380 NICOLA AVE.
1926 QUILCHENA AVE
NEW This 10.53 acre property is ready for your cabin getaway from the city. Power is at the paved road. Great recreational area to x-country skiing, fishing, hiking, biking. Has seasonal creek. Easy access from Coquihalla Hwy. at Exit 256
Established & well maintained Dry Cleaning and Coin Laundry, a turnkey business. 3200 sq.ft. concrete block building with steel truss roof with possibility of expansion to include living quarters. Great opportunity for a good family business.
Former auto repair shop in a highly visible location. 3 bay shop with 1 bay with 12 ft door & hoist, other 2 have 10 ft doors. Has storage room & office with reception area. 2608 sq.ft. building with parking. Call for details.
#3231
#3238
#3197
$279,900
$495,000
FOR LEASE
1550 WALNUT AVENUE
1101 MIDDAY VALLEY RD
2845 NEILSON ST
Lake view 1 acre lot with 180 degree views of Nicola Lake. 2.5 hrs from the coast and just 20 minutes from Merritt. Boat launch just minutes away. Build your dream home or vacation getaway
Close to half acre lot with city utilities with a 46x28 shop with power and 2 pce bathroom. Shop has high ceiling clearance. Quiet location near end of no-thru street. Great place to have a home with your own shop! Call for more details
10 acre site with CD-1 zoning. Has City Service not yet connected. Lots of potential located near truck route. Bring your ideas.
15.9 acre RV Park zoning bordering the Coldwater River. Hookups in place & future set of plans for expansion available. Has city services. Has small rental home with long term tenants.
#3210
#3222
#2958
#3090
6433 MONCK PARK ROAD
6427 MONCK PARK ROAD
Build your lakeview dream home on this 1 acre lot overlooking Nicola Lake with views of the valley. Boat launch is just minutes sway. Great lake for swimming, boating, waterskiing & fishing. Just 2.5 hrs from Lower Mainland.
#3181
$124,900
6449 MONCK PARK RD
2288 BURGESS AVE
Build your dream home in one of Merritt areas finest development, Nicola Lakeshore Estates. Water & sewer hookups available. Close to water access. This lake is known for fishing, water skiing & more.
A rare waterfront lot of 0.94 acres waiting for development with over 50 metres of river frontage, not subdividable. In neighbourhood of high end custom homes. Call for more details.
#3074
#3235
$159,900
Karen Yakimchuk 250-315-3076
250-315-3043
FORECAST FOR 2021
$165,000
Brad Yakimchuk
Jared Thomas 778-694-6804
$210,000
Spius Creek Estates
$200,000
MIDDAY VALLEY ROAD
Approximately 5 acre parcel, north facing, with fantastic views. City services, not currently connected. Zoned R-9 High Density Residential. Great opportunity. Call for details.
#2962
$300,000
$699,000
$1,650,000.
923 MIDDAY VALLEY RD
LOT A, MIDDAY VALLEY RD
Approx 290 acres with great potential. Current plans are for a 2 acre development of estate lots within city boundaries. Fantastic valley views. Call for more details
Approx. 122 acres of multiple zonings. C-4, C-6 and R-1. Call for more details on this acreage and bring your ideas
#2956
#2957
$3,990,000
Grandview Heights
$1,584,000
LOOKING TO ESCAPE
ONLY 3 LEFT!
FROM THE BIG CITY RESIDENTIAL VIEW LOTS
Located Off Petit Creek Road
Prices starting at $279,000 Country living at its best! Approx. 10 acres lots located 15 minutest west of Merritt in the beautiful Sunshine Valley. These properties have stunning views of the valley. Great area for horseback riding, biking, hiking and more. Call for full details. GST applies.
#3145
Prices Starting at $104,000 + GST Fully serviced residential lots with fantastic views of the Nicola Valley and surrounding mountains. Choose your lot, bring your plans & start building your future! Close to shopping. #3213
LIFE STYLE? CHECK OUT MERRITT!
21.ca • 378-6166 • movingrealestate.c21.ca • 378-6166
14 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Snow clearing budget talks coming late January From Page 11 cants for the Snow Angels program last winter. Mayor Brown said those names and numbers will be turned over to Better at Home. In Henderson’s presentation, he outlined a number of different options that could be considered in greater detail at the Jan. 29 Committee of the Whole budget meeting, including plowing to the centre of the street, promoting some seasonal staff to fulltime, while outlining a bevy of different equipment pieces that could ease the process. He thanked council for working with the public works team to increase the budget from $72,000 to $106,000 in the past few years. “I know it’s not perfect during these large snowfalls, but the public needs to understand that there is support from council.” One hot topic addressed by Henderson, and brought up intially by Councillor Tony Luck, was the idea of changing street parking rules and laws, especially within the downtown core. After the Dec. 21 snowfall, some of Merritt’s main streets saw snow pile up along the curbs, much
of which remains today. Currently, Henderson said their policy is that announcements are made online, on radio, and on social media the day prior to parking limits downtown. No signs are currently implemented, instead,
Charlie Henderson Manager, Public Works
the public works department uses barricades to close the roads. “What we have changed on the deployment strategy, historically prior to 2017, the snow removal downtown was completed at the end of day shift. However, they were battling traffic. Right now, that deployment is changed to 3a.m.4a.m., and we actually stretched it out on Dec. 23 to 10a.m. It wasn’t the most successful regarding the public, and interaction with my crew. It was quite negative.” Mayor Brown brought up the notion that there
are residents in town that do not have the option to not park on the street. “There are some people who don’t have driveways off of the front street, which means they park their car on the street. If they were not allowed to park their car on the street, they wouldn’t be able to go home at night. So our streets are not consistent with some of the newer communities that can do that kind of thing. “We could do it in some areas, but we certainly couldn’t do it overall.” Henderson added a list of issues that could arise with putting up no parking signs for certain hours, including the difficulties that would come with having to plow the parking lane. “We would be plowing one more lane, and we would be depositing that snow on the sidewalk. With the no parking signs in other municipalities, I’m pretty sure they’re loading that snow out. They’re removing that snow. We could implement that, but we would also be adding to the problem regarding where the snow is going.” Henderson’s budget report will be further discussed on Jan. 29.
Digital Online Advertising services. • website design and tracking • social media management • blog management • community display • paid search and so much more!
Taking care of all your advertising needs to keep your business up to date!
CONTACT THERESA
for more information at 250-378-4241 email: publisher@merrittherald.com
THANK YOU! to our donors for making it possible to bring back our printed edition of the newspaper. We would not have been able to do it without you.
SHOE BOX CAMPAIGN WRAPS UP /PAGE 7
♥
MSS X-COUNTRY GOES VIRTUAL / PAGE 22
Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905
MERRITT HERALD THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2020 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS • www.merrittherald.com
TOYS
FOR TOTS A COVID-safe Toy Drive Thru was held for the Nicola Valley Food Bank, bringing in more than $3,000 worth of toys for local children and teens. STORY /PAGE 8
FREE
INSIDE...
MEDAL AWARDED
Charles Wilkins of Logan Lake Fire Dept. received an ‘exemplary service’ medal after serving 20 years at the station.
/PAGE 3
SLAUGHTER CRISIS
BC livestock producers are facing increasing challenges due to lack of legal slaughter options in the province.
/PAGE 5
FAMILY BATTLE
A Merritt man found himself at RIH battling COVID-19 at the same time his daughter was delivering his grandson.
/PAGE 13
Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other
A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929.
Speciaalnk You Th to all the businesses who have continued to support us throughout these difficult times. Please remember to support local shopping. Supporting local helps everyone thrive.
Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri.: 10:00am - 3:00pm • Wednesday 1:00pm - 6:00pm / 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
On-call 24 Hrs. a day: 250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 • www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com
LIST OF DONORS • Maureen Lisle • Mark Remming • Charles Pimms • Jurgen Lutter • Beth Guthro • Betty Stone • Brian Wuensche • Gertrude Leslie * Mary Anderson • Haley Rutherford • Community Futures Nicola Valley • Anne Wray • Kristyna Murphy • Linda Brown• In memory of Walter
Evans, Love Callie, Zach & Maria • Janet Hohner • Joanne Woods • Stephanie Troughton • Chris de Haan • Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants • Clemens Kummerlaender • Ho Ka Fai Simon • Gillian Rose • Mike Hilton • Callie Langlois-Torgerson • Alex Doll
• Jana Rosenberg • Bill and Tina Mikita • Joyce Crosina • Elizabeth Perdok-Waboose • Janet Hohner • Amy & Bradley Courtepatte • Naga Shunmugam • Carolyn Wainwright • Steve & Pat Gontar • Elizabeth Nel • Evan Walsh • Charmaine Staley • Hans Treis • Carmen Fairley
• Terence Grams • James A Clark • Sheila Butler • Matthew Starr • Stacey Krajci • Elizabeth Nel • Peter Spencer • Rod & Sharon Courtepatte • Mary Macgregor • Ross Horrocks • Sarah Sandusky • Emily Wessel • Marise Sasges • Jeanette & Mike Matthias
• Terrence Neilson • Lavinia Wilson • Dara Hill • Jurgen Lutter • Ellen Nast • Ka Fai Simon Ho • M.Cooper BCYR Fundraising Coordinator • Brent Campbell • Scentman • Anne Wray • Shirley Dumma • Ben Klassen • Margaret Carlson • Alice Murray
• James Murdoch • Cole Wagner • Gayle Munz • Barinder Chauhan • Joan Negrin • Betty Ann Mcdonnell • Ted Lund • Extra Foods • Gordon Swan • Diane Quinn • Plus a few generous anonymous donors
If you would like to donate, please go to support.merrittherald.com or drop by the office at 2090 Granite Avenue
www.merrittherald.com
SPORTS
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 15
Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing newsroom@merrittherald.com.
JUNIOR HOCKEY
BCHL season pushed back once again There will be no British Columbia Hockey League action in the month of January. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD. COM
The BCHL has announced another pushback to the opening of the 2020-21 season. Following the extension of restrictions on sports to Feb. 5 by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry late last week, the league announced on Jan. 8 that the season is now tentatively set to begin the week of Feb. 8.
“Although it is frustrating to have to delay our season start once again, we are in no way, shape or form throwing in the towel on the 2020-21 season,” said BCHL Commissioner Chris Hebb. “We understand why the order was extended and we will continue to work with the Provincial Health Officer on scenarios to start a
season in a safe manner.” With the knowledge that the season would most likely be pushed back months ago, the BCHL set out a goal originally to begin the season in early December. That start date was then moved to mid-January, before today’s announcement delaying games once again. The February start remains
to be quite a fluid plan, as it is not yet known if restrictions will ease by then, or just how many games BCHL teams, including the Merritt Centennials, will actually be able to get in. BCHL teams will remain under Phase 2 protocols, which allow for individual onice skills and drills.
Centennials bolster blue line Jared Thomas CONTRIBUTOR
The Merritt Centennials have committed to defender Tristan Allen (03) of the Thompson Blazers of the BC U18 AAA league for the upcoming regular season. A native of Kamloops, Allen has spent the past few years in his hometown system growing as a player. In the 2019-20 season, Allen suited up for 40 games with the Blazers and scored a goal while adding 21 assists. Allen also snuck into four
Curl BC cancels provincials in Kamloops
Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD. COM Curl BC has officially decided to cancel both the 2021 BC Women’s and Men’s Curling Championships in Kamloops. The announcement came on Friday morning, following Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry’s extension of sporting restrictions on travel and group sport in the province until Feb. 5. “The safety of our athletes and volunteers is a top priority,” said Scott Braley, Curl BC
games in the CSSHL this season, scoring one goal this season before play was suspended due to COVID. The 5’10”, right handed shot, sits at 170 pounds and looks to join former team mate Dylan Sydor on the Centennials. Head Coach and General Manager Derek Sweet-Coulter says that Allen will be ready to make the jump to the BCHL. “Tristan is a special player and person, he plays a very smart game and does everything with his head up. He comes from a great
CEO. “We were hopeful that all the efforts to bend the curve would lead to fewer cases of COVID-19 in the province and more opportunities for people to compete. However, the numbers are still much higher than anyone wants – and it will be difficult for clubs to stay open – so the best course of action is to cancel.” Both championship tournaments were planned to take place at Kamloops’ McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre from Jan. 26 to Jan. 31. The winners would have represented British Columbia at the famed
development program in Thompson with the Blazers led by Head Coach Chris Murray and his transition to our program will be seamless.” Allen says that he’s been keeping his skills sharp and is excited to join the Cents. “I have been on the ice and working out four to five times a week in order to keep my skills as sharp as possible with my past team. I’m super excited to join the Centennials because I’ve seen many great players pass through their organization onto col-
Scotties and Tim Hortons Brier tournaments later in the year, which is currently set to take place in the hub city of Calgary. Instead, the 2020 BC Curling Championship teams will earn the 2021 berths. Team Brown, with Corryn Brown, Erin Pincott, Dezaray Hawes and Samantha Fisher will represent BC at the 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Team Laycock, with Steve Laycock, Jim Cotter, Andrew Nerpin and Rick Sawatsky, will represent BC at the Tim Hortons Brier. “We wish Team Brown and Team Laycock the best of luck
lege and even the NHL. I’m also excited to meet the players and the team staff as I’ve heard they are a really close group.” Allen adds that he will bring some mobility to the Centennials blueline. “The skills that I will bring to the Centennials are my hockey sense, competitiveness, skating ability and my puck moving skills.” The Cents would like to welcome Tristan and his family to the team and the Nicola Valley and look forward to his contributions here on and off the ice.
at nationals,” said Braley. “We know these teams will represent BC well. “Although we will not be able to give everyone who wanted to take part in the opportunity to compete this year, we sincerely hope you will sign up again next year.” Braley added his thanks to the Kamloops committee chairs Linda Bolton and Brenda Nordin and their team, as well as the City of Kamloops and all the sponsors, for all the hard work and support that has gone into preparing to stage the event.
16 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
BUSINESS FEATURE
Do you want to nominate a business? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing reporter@merrittherald.com.
From his shop on May St., Darren Preston of Preston Customs Autobody and Paint puts more than two decades of experience to work, performing automotive repair and paint work for all manner of vehicles. From vintage cars to motorcycles, big rigs, RVs, machinery and daily drivers, Preston Customs can provide repair and custom paint jobs to just about anything that drives. Naturally artistic, Preston attended Emily Carr University of Art and Design for a time before realizing that his passion was geared more towards the automotive industry. At that time, he enrolled at BCIT, graduating at the top of his class as a Red Seal Journeyman Auto Body and Paint Technician in 2003. Upon graduating, Preston was awarded
the Automotive Collisions Repair Technician Award Medal, for receiving the highest marks ever obtained in the program at that time. In 2015, Preston moved from Penticton to Merritt to take a job, as well as join the Merritt Fire Rescue Department (MFRD) with his soon-to-be wife, Meagan, whom he married in 2017. “A member at the fire hall worked for Nadina Logging, and they needed some immediate work done on a vehicle that had been damaged and was required to be back in service immediately,” explained Preston. “So, I went down to see if I could help. That turned into more work with Nadina, which turned into more people asking for me to come and privately repair their machinery, fleet vehicles and rigs at
their places of business.” It was at this point that Preston decided to sell the house he still had in Penticton, and use the funds to rent a shop from Frank Etchart, owner of Nadina Logging, so that he would have a place to work on projects when he wasn’t at his regular job. “I had a custom paint booth built and brought in my own waterborne paint line to mix my own custom paint,” said Preston. “In a very short period of time, a few months, I was so busy I had to choose between my day job and working for myself. But by then I was so busy that making the leap was easy.” Preston had always dreamed of having his own custom shop, and with the business start-up support and services of Community Futures Nicola Valley, he was finally
able to make the dream a reality. “My goal has always been to provide exceptional body and paint work anywhere I’ve worked, and I’ve worked for some of the largest ICBC franchise shops for most of my career,” explained Preston. “But my passion was always customizing vehicles and motorcycles to make them a work of art and have a unique flair. I’m a people person and really enjoy building personal relationships with my clients so they feel like they are a part of the process, not just dropping their vehicle off for someone to work on.” As a Red Seal certified Body and Paint technician, Preston also wants to ensure his clients understand what makes a good, safe job as opposed to an acceptable or quick job. “I also strive to educate the client on their options for repair and paint, and why repairs and paint should be done a certain way to ensure long term satisfaction and prevent reoccurrence of body rust and paint issues, including using the least amount of body fillers necessary.”
His wife agrees that he is a perfectionist, “annoyingly so”, and is also frequently on hand to help out at the shop. “Meagan has a mechanical background and also helps run the shop, and supports me by taking care of the financials, prepping vehicles for body and paint, mixing custom paint, and working in the shop when it is really busy,” said Preston. Although many businesses have suffered during the pandemic, Preston Customs has seen a surge in business, with clients flooding him with projects, sometimes resulting in waitlists of a month or more. To give back to the community that has supported him, he has done probono work for lowincome individuals, or those struggling, in order to make their vehicles safe. He also donates food, clothing and toys to the Nicola Valley Food Bank both personally and through his work with MFRD. He has volunteered as a coach for Merritt Minor Hockey and Merritt Youth Soccer since arriving in Merritt, and hopes to do more for Merritt as his business continues
to grow. “My clients by the end of a job typically all become friends, and often come back to visit and see what I’m up to next,” said Preston. “There is no greater love for my job than when I get to deliver a vehicle to someone that exceeds and fulfills their vehicle dream. I live for the reveal and the expression, and sometimes tears, it brings when my client gets to see the finished product!”
Fri. Jan. 15
Sat. Jan. 16
Sun. Jan. 17
Mon. Jan. 18
Tues. Jan. 19
Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■
1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.
THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church
2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Baptist Church
2499 Coutlee Ave. (Corner of Coutlee and Orme) • 250-378-2464 Service Time: 10:00 a.m.
Merritt Lutheran Fellowship
in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.
St. Michael’s Anglican Church
1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.
Trinity United Church
Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time 2nd & 4th Sundays/ Sunday School (K-Gr. 4) - 10 am
Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 3:30 pm • 250-280-1268
Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
7 Day Weather Forecast for Merritt, BC - Thursday, Jan. 14 - Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021 Thurs. Jan. 14
CONTAIN-IT STORAGE
Wed. Jan. 20
Stain Glass by
Almerina Rizzardo
• • • • Mix of Sun & Clouds High -1˚C Low: -7˚C
Mix of Sun & Clouds High: 1˚C Low: -3˚C
Cloudy High: 0˚C Low: -4˚C
Mostly Sunny High: 1˚C Low: -3˚C
Cloudy w/Sunny Breaks High:1˚C Low: -1˚C
Mixed Precipitation High: 2˚C Low: -4˚C
Snow High: -1˚C Low: -5˚C
STAIN GLASS SUN CATCHERS NIGHT LIGHTS PICTURE FRAMES
Creative Company 2074 Quilchena Ave. Merritt, BC Monday - Saturday Ph: 250-378-0813 Available at
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 17
www.merrittherald.com
CLASSIFIEDS
Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: publisher@merrittherald.com Announcements GET RESULTS! Post a classified in 95 newspapers in just a few clicks. Reach almost 2 million people for only $395 week for 25-word text ad or $995 for small display ad. Choose your province or all across Canada. Best value. Save over 85% compared to booking individually. www.bccommunitynews .com/advertise or 1-866-669-9222
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%!
For Sale - Misc INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. Adam.s@integritybuilt.com 1-250-351-5374 www.intergritybuild.com
Wanted Cash for gold and silver! Also buying coin collections, old money, old jewelry Contact Todd 1250-864-3521.
kamloopsthisweek .com
Obituaries
Obituaries
Willem “Bill” JAGER Mar. 21, 1933 - Jan. 8, 2021
Mr. Willem “Bill” Jager entered into rest in the Kamloops hospital on Jan. 8th, 2021, aged 87 years. Survived by his loving wife Marilyn Jager, daughters; Janet (Jesse) of Merritt, BC, Tammy (Jason) of Dryden, ON, sons; Keith (Cyndi) of Merritt, BC, Danny of Merritt, BC, grandchildren; Brad (Shauna), Josh (Rebecca), Kevyn (Lisa), Sarah, Brandon (Brianna), Henry (Kayla), Kaitlin, Ryder, Montana (Dave), great grandchildren; Kelsey, Whitley, Cole, Jaxon, Phoenix (Peanut), Declan Jack, Carson, brother Peit Jager and many nieces, newphews friends and relatives. He is predeceased by parents; Klaas and Maaike Jager, brothers; Klaas Jr., Jacob and Albert Jager. A Celebration of will be held at a later date, 2021 in Merritt, BC with Pastor Mr. officiating. Terry Hale ofciating. Should friends desire, donations may be made to the Cancer Association.
MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY ADVANCE CARE PLANNING is a choice that allows individuals to make health care decisions now, in case they cannot give consent for treatments offered in the future P: 250-280-1701
www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca
Merritt Funeral Chapel A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
Celebrating each life like no other
Employment
Employment
Black’s Pharmacy is looking to hire a hardworking teammate who has a passion for excellent customer service. The successful candidate will show interest in learning to operate a computer-based inventory management system, including merchandise receiving and cycle counting. The role on our team will include product placement, general store cleaning, and customer checkout operations. We are looking for someone that has a keen interest in giftware purchasing, pricing and merchandising. Previous experience will be considered an asset, but is not required. This is a part-time position where hard work and flexibility will be rewarded. Must be able to work Saturday and be flexible throughout the week as required. Come join our amazing team at Black’s Pharmacy. Please bring your resume in person to Blaine at Black’s Pharmacy, 2037 Quilchena Ave.
Follow us
@MerrittHerald @KamThisWeek
2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379
Employment
SHIPPING CLERK Aspen Planers, LTD, Merritt, BC Aspen Planers is seeking a full-time Shipping Clerk for our Merritt Ofce. This position requires a self-motivated, analytical, team player that works independently and is able to multi task in a fast paced manufacturing environment. Excellent communication skills coupled with strong organizational, problem solving, bookkeeping and computer skills are crucial to success in this position. Duties include: • Prepare paperwork for shipments of lumber, coordinate trucks and rail to numerous yards and customers. • Keeping accurate inventory at all yards. • Preparing border documents, communicating with various rail lines. • Administrative tasks including Accounts payable and other ofce duties This position will also provide back up to other ofce positions.
Attention
Inventors! Ideas wanted! Call Davison today! 1.800.218.2909 or visit us at
inventing.davison.com/BC
Free inventor’s guide!
Catch your next job in our employment section.
We thank all applicants who express any interest; however only those selected for interview will be contacted.
Submit your resume to: email: shereesimon@apgroup.ca
VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT
PRODUCTION WORKERS
• Good wages • Steady day shift • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train
Volunteering
We can’t do it without you The BC SPCA cares for thousands of orphaned, abandoned and abused animals each year. Volunteers are urgently needed to care for animals and assist with BC SPCA events. If you can help, please contact your local shelter today.
TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1
SPEAKING FOR ANIMALS SPEAKI
LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS CERTIFIED FORKLIFT OPERATORS CARPENTERS Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161
PLEASE PLEASE RECYCLE RECYCLE THIS THIS NEWSPAPER. NEWSPAPER.
To advertise in To advertise in Employment Employment call 604-630-3300 Call 250-378-4241
spca.bc.ca/volunteer
Local steady work
Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m
www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com
Employment
LOOKING FOR A NEW CAREER?
REGULAR OFFICE HOURS On Call 24 Hours A Day
Employment
Bring Home the Bacon!
Find your new job right here in your Classifieds.
merrittherald.com
or Call to advertise a job
250-378-4241
TODAY'S PUZZLE A NSWERS
18 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 Legal / Public Notices
Legal / Public Notices
www.merrittherald.com Legal / Public Notices
SUDOKU
Legal / Public Notices
MINING LEASE APPLICATION Take notice that Elk Gold Mining Corporation, 1080 – 789 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 1H2, client number 254235, has applied to the Chief Gold Commissioner for the Province of British Columbia, for a mining lease of minerals identiďŹ ed by the mineral claim listed below. The mineral claim will be surveyed by a, BCLS, whose ďŹ eld notes and plans will be approved by the Surveyor General. The following mineral claim, located approximately 45km southeast of Merritt, is subject to the mining lease application: • Title Number 1079787 • Mineral Titles Map Number 092H089 Posted at the Chief Gold Commissioner’s ofďŹ ce in Vancouver, British Columbia, this 16th day of December, 2020. 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.
Under the terms of the Warehouseman’s Lien Act, Goods and Personal Property of the persons listed below deposited at Nicola Valley RV & Mini Storage Ltd 340 Coyle Place (Marshall Road) V1K 1N4 250-280-8704 have been seized due to non-payment of storage rent and will be sold to cover costs of unpaid storage.
PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE
Opal Charters Unit #23 Owing $660.00 These goods and personal property will be sold at a date still to be determined.
How to write a classiďŹ ed ad that works. Writing an effective classiďŹ ed ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles. • Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, service offered or the job title. • Be descriptive. Give customers a reason to respond. Advertisers have found that the more information you provide, the better the response. • Limit abbreviations. Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations. • Include price. Always include price of the item for sale. • How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.
PAPER ROUTES
AVAILABLE
GET YOUR STEPS IN AND
GET PAID
250-374-7467 Call us 250-378-4241
ACROSS
1.Adequate yearly progress (abbr.) 4. Silicon Valley’s specialty 8. Gather a harvest 10. Famed mathematician 11. No (slang) 12. Students use one 13. Type of molecule 15. Play make-believe 16. Large barrel-like containers
DOWN
1. Used in treating bruises 2. One who cultivates a small estate 3. One who supports the Pope 4. Annuity 5. Geological period 6. Grab onto tightly 7. Kept 9. Chinese city 10. The most direct route 12. Type of tooth
17. Touching 18. Treats allergies 21. Calendar month 22. Single 23. Cease to live 24. Brew 25. What ghosts say 26. Geological time 27. Focus 34. Discomfort 35.Acitizen of Iran
36. Trip 37. Imitate 38. Makes happy 39. Double-reed instrument 40. Body parts 41. Transgressions 42. One-time emperor of Russia 43. Time zone
14. __ kosh, near Lake Winnebago 15. Popular veggie 17. Supervises interstate commerce 19. Foolish behaviors 20. Witness 23. Gives 24. Expression of creative skill 25. A way to prop up 26. Midway between northeast and east
27. Winter melon 28. Supernatural power 29. Target 30. Threes 31. A type of poetic verse 32. They make some people cry 33. Kindest 34. Forman and Ventimiglia are two 36. A way to liquefy
THURSDAY, January 14, 2021 • 19
Y o u r Local Business Directory
I am pleased to announce I have relocated to Merritt, BC. I bring with me 18 years of experience in Insurance and Investments. I am really looking forward to meeting you, please visit me at 1988 Quilchena Avenue. Let’s talk about Money for Life. Leslee Lucy* CFP® CPCA A brighter
LICENSED CANNABIS
day to make a move INVESTMENT/INSURANCE
Tel: 250-574-4730 leslee.lucy@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/leslee.lucy nabis Co. Street ena Can lchVoght Qui3499 I am pleased to announce I have relocated to Merritt, BC. P.O. Box 639 I bring with me 18 years of experience in Insurance Investments. Let’sand talk about Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 I am really looking forward to meeting you, please visit me at Money for Life
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE HERE FOR YOU!
Quilchena 1988 Quilchena Avenue. pany Canna Com Let’s talk about Money for Life. Mutual funds distributed by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. BE Leslee Lucy* CFP® CPCA Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a memberSTof the Sun Life Financial group of companies.
© Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2017.
@DanAlbas
DanAlbas4COSN
MU
Life’s brighter under the sun
19+
Call 250-378-5 420 Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC
Toll Free: 1-800-665-8711 www.danalbas.com
Tel: 250-574-4730 leslee.lucy@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/leslee.lucy 3499 Voght Street P.O. Box 639 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
Mutual the funds distributed Life’s brighter under sun by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc.
Mutual funds distributed by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2017.
DENTIST
CLEANING SERVICES
PLUMBING & HEATING
g n i t a e H & g n i b m Nicola Plu Fully Qualied Tradesmen in..
Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters. Service Work & Furnace Service. Custom Sheet Metal Atlas RV Parts & Repairs
CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS REMOVAL
NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME
GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call
250-378-4888 to book your appointment. 2731 Forksdale Avenue, V1K 1R9
www.dentistryatmerritt.ca
R. Dutt-DMD Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr.
HOURS
Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
For more information contact Ken at:
250-378-4241 g.com
kcouture@aberdeenpublishin
CARPET CLEANING UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING – FLOOD & JANITORIAL SERVICES TF: 1-877-612-0909
2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC
Advertising works! Place your ad in our Business Directory!
250-378-9410
www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com
PHONE: 250-378-4943
ADVERTISING MERRITT HERALD
BOOK TODAY!
Y COMFORT, CLARIT E AND CONFIDENC E THROUGH A COMPLET
TREE SERVICE JIM POTTER
MERRITT TREE SERVICE
FINANCIAL PL AN
• Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment
today! Contact Kyle for your plan
➤Schedule your FREE Estimate
Cashflow and Insurance Planning Portfolio Management Tax and Estate Planning
CALL JIM at 250-378-4212
2-2955 Ext. 259 Cell Phone: 250-879-6306 • Office: 250-37 dvisor.investorsgroup.com/en/kyle_schell e-mail: Kyle.schell@ig.ca • Website: http://a
MECHANIC
FRANK’S MECHANICAL SERVICE OLD OR NEW WE HAVE WARRANTY APPROVED MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYONE • Tune Ups • Brakes • Exhaust • Suspension • Lube/Oil •Radiator Service • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning Service 2026 Mamette Avenue
250-378-1322
Solutions for your tree problems!
ADVERTISING Are you expanding your client base? way Looking for an accessible for people to find you? iness Directory” page Thu ry Eve ent *with minimum 1 month committm s each week. Reach over 5330 reader
“Local Bus JOIN the Herald’srsda y, Always Full Colour!
-378-4241 or Contact Theresa at 250 herald.com Email: publisher@merritt
20 • THURSDAY, January 14, 2021
www.merrittherald.com
MerrittMerritt Real Estate Services Ltd.Ltd. HELPING SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! HELPINGYOU YOU IS IS WHAT WHAT WE WE DO! SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! Real Estate Services
A Home Changes Everything!
Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt for a complete list of current listings
3499 Voght St. Merritt BC V1K 1C6
250-378-6181
email: rlpmerit@telus.net $229,900 1307 SPRUCE AVENUE
2125B CLARKE AVENUE
$419,900
THIS 2000 SQFT, 3 BED, 2 FULL BATH 1/2 DUPLEX could be nicely updated for a growing family with the basement waiting for your ideas. 42 x 130 ft lot with access to the backyard. Close to schools and shopping! Currently tenanted.
BUILDERS TAKE NOTE! 6 LOT SUBDIVISION CONSISTING OF 2 DUPLEX AND 4 SINGLE FAMILY LOTS in final stages of subdivision process. This 1 acre lot is completely flat with 3 single family home lots fronting on Pine and 2 duplex and 1 single family home lots fronting on Spruce.
MLS# 159813
MLS# 159444
DENISE DESILETS: • 250-315-8395 •email: denisedesilets@royallepage.ca
$799,000 1622 FIR ROAD
111 VEALE ROAD
$579,900
RETIRE IN STYLE ON THIS 9.88 ACREAGE AND HORSE PROPERTY JUST 4 MINUTES FROM MERRITT. Home built in 2020 and offers outstanding quality. You will fall in love with the views from the large master bedroom with beautiful ensuite, walk in closet and french doors onto the deck.
ONE LOOK WILL DO! GORGEOUS RANCHER WITH AMAZING VIEWS OF THE NICOLA VALLEY and the Coldwater River. This is no ordinary home. Gracious entrance with tiled floors, open concept living room and dining area with quality finishes in the kitchen.
MLS# 159378
MLS# 159662
CLAUDETTE EDENOSTE: • 250-280-0689 •email: claudetteedenoste@royallepage.ca
4830 SADDLE CRESCENT
$110,000 248 CALCITE DRIVE LOGAN LAKE
Owner/Broker
$449,900
3 BEDROOM 2 BATH NEWLY DESIGNED HOME with a walk out basement in beautiful Logan Lake is nearing the finishing stages. Open concept design with a large 11 X 15 deck out the back overlooking the Highland Valley. Home has a double garage, and a 1300 sqft unfinished basement for the handyman. 30 min from Kamloops or 40 min from MLS# 159811 Merritt.
TRANQUILITY IN THE AREA OF MILE HIGH RESORT. Thinking of building that retirement home, summer get away or just building your dream home. Then look no further as this .29 acre lot is for you. Easy access to Face lake. The lake boasts rainbow trout averaging 1.5-2 LBS. In winter, skating on the lake provides a picturesque view. MLS# 155423
FREDERICK SINGER (LOGAN LAKE): • 250-318-8392 •email: fred.singer@royallepage.ca
2915 TRANS CANADA HWY
$980,000 2701 LANGSTAFF PLACE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY ON THE TRANS CANADA HWY JUST OUTSIDE OF LYTTON. This 37.96 Acre property includes the Shaw Springs 60 seat Restaurant with 32 site full hook RV park complete with Washroom & Shower Building. This property is located on 1.25 kms of direct waterfront on the Thompson River. MLS# 157957
$419,900
BEAUTIFUL 5 BED/ 3 BATH HOME LOCATED ON A QUIET CUL-DE-SAC. The kitchen & dining area is open and bright with lots of room for entertaining. The raised living room shares a 3 sided NG fireplace with the dining room below. The large attached garage has room for 2 cars and plenty of room for storage. Call the listing agent to book your private showing. MLS# 157976
JENNIFER KIGHTLEY: • 250-315-3256 •email: jenniferkightley@royallepage.ca
$199,600 2137 QUILCHENA AVENUE
314-2295 BLAIR STREET
$550,000 LARGE COMMERCIAL SPACE CLOSE TO OTHER RETAIL AND OFFICE SPACE. Has a 3 bedroom suite above with tenant in place. Parking in front for customers and in back for staff and loading. Commercial space is approximately 5000 square feet and would be easy to configure in many different ways.
TWO BEDROOM UNIT WITH BALCONY SPACE AND IN SUITE LAUNDRY. Open floor plan for kitchen, dining and living room area. Both bedrooms at back with southerly exposure. Laundry room has extra space for storage. Each unit with its own independent heating and hot water tank. Tenant in place on one year lease. MLS# 159446 Managing Broker
MLS# #158597
JOHN ISAAC: • 250-378-1586 •email: johnisaac@telus.net
2672 GRANITE AVENUE
$519,500 7-1401 NICOLA AVENUE
HURRY! THIS WELL MAINTAINED AND SPACIOUS 7 BEDROOM, 4 1/2 BATHROOM FAMILY HOME WILL NOT LAST LONG. The home has many features including a a nicely finished 2 bdrm legal suite on the ground level and a separate area for guests.
$80,900
THIS WELL KEPT 1992 MANUFACTURED HOME IS LOCATED IN A CENTRAL LOCATION Close to the downtown core. This mobile has a 24 X 12 addition which includes a mudroom and enclosed 14 X 11 deck. There is also a small garden shed and enclosed area for your small pet. This is a tenanted unit.Nicely designed kitchen with s/s appliances, a large master bedroom.
MLS# 159099
MLS# 159910
TONY LUCK: • 604-217-5825 •email: tjluck@royallepage.ca
2455 BURGESS AVENUE
Personal Real Estate Corporation
$210,000 2223 BURGESS AVENUE
$719,000
ENJOY THE COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE RIGHT WITHIN THE CITY ON THIS .77 ACRE LOT located in a prestigious neighborhood on a quiet cul de sac. This lot is offers over 200 feet of river frontage and is located within walking distance to Central Park, churches and the downtown core.
GORGEOUS CUSTOM DESIGN RANCHER WITH LEGAL SUITE ON .51 ACRES in one of Merritt’s most sought after neighborhoods. This stunning home boasts a gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, hickory cabinets and amazing walk-in pantry. Open floor plan features vaulted ceilings, hardwood flooring and more!
MLS# 157710
MLS# 159094
DEBRA SCHINDLER: • 250-315-3548 •email: debbieschindler2@gmail.com
