Merritt Herald December 16, 2021 by Merritt Herald

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, December 16, 2021 •

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COUNCILLOR RESIGNS

Merritt City Councillor Mike Bhangu has handed in his resignation, citing conflict with Mayor Linda Brown as unsolvable. /PAGE

FREE

DONATIONS GALORE 5

The Rotary Club has raised over $200,000 for flood victims, with more still coming in. /PAGE 20

REBUILDING THE COQ Crews have been working around the clock on the Coquihalla Highway since the Nov. 15 flood event. PHOTOS / PG. 3

CEN TURY 21

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

2151 Munro Crescent

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449 Woodward Avenue

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

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Merry Christmas from our house to yours

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Work continues on Coquihalla

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 3

INSIDE THE HERALD

Opinion ---------------------- 6-7 The Herald, among other media, was recently given a tour of the Sports ------------------------ 18 work being done along the Coquihalla between Merritt and Hope. Classifieds ---------- 21-22 Ministry of Transportation staff, Yellowhead Road and Bridge staff, and media tour the Murray Flats location where approximately 500 metres of the southbound lanes were lost.

Jake Courtepatte/Herald

WEATHER Dec. 16: Light Snow -4°/-13°C Dec. 17: Cloudy -4°/-6°C Dec. 18: Snow 0°/-7°C Dec. 19: Light Snow -4°/-10°C Dec. 20: Snow Flurries -7°/-13°C Dec. 21: Partly Cloudy -7°/-13°C

Online merrittherald.com

LYTTON AID

Bottletop Bridge was one of the hardest hit locations along the Coquihalla. Three bridge spans collapsed in the area.

The Village of Lytton, which was devastated by wildfire this past summer, has received a $1 million grant from the province to aid in its economic recovery.

Search ‘LYTTON’

WATER TESTING An excavator rock hammer attachment is used to break apart a collapsed span at Juliet Bridge. Juliet Creek Road was lost for about 10 metres below the bridge.

A new, larger culvert was installed in the Mine Creek area of the Coquihalla, after a failure during the flooding resulted in the northbound lanes eroding.

Private well owners are being urged to test their water following possible contamination by extensive overland flooding in both the Southern Interior and Fraser Valley. Bacteriological test kits have been made available.

Search ‘’WELL WATER’

(236)575-2236 - Local number 2302 Nicola Ave, Merritt, BC

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WEDNESDAY, December 2021 44 •• THURSDAY, December 16,16, 2021

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THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 5

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Merritt City Councillor resigns Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Merritt City Councillor Mike Bhangu has announced his resignation in a letter forwarded to City staff, mayor and council and local media outlets. “I resign from my position, effective immediately, as I do not have confidence in Mayor Linda Brown’s ability to lead, or represent each Council Member fairly,” reads Bhangu’s letter. “I would like to thank the people of Merritt for the opportunity to serve, and I thank all staff and Councillors for their efforts in making Merritt a great place to be.” There has been significant friction between Councillor Bhangu and Mayor Brown during several council meetings over the past several months. It seems likely that this will trigger a municipal by-election. According to the Province of BC, a municipality or regional district may

Mike Bhangu choose not to hold a by-election to fill a vacancy if the vacancy occurs after June 1 in the year of a general local election that will fill the vacant office. Additionally, a municipal council may also decide that a by-election will not to be held if all the following circumstances apply: - Vacancy occurs after January 1 in the year of a general local election that will fill the office - Vacancy is not in an office elected

POLICE FILES

A Merritt woman has been charged after allegedly entering a home unlawfully with a baton. On Oct. 8, 2021, Merritt RCMP front line officers responded to a home invasion in the 2400 block of Clapperton Avenue. It was alleged that two suspects had entered a residence without permis-

sion and one of the suspects assaulted the home owner with a collapsible baton. Both suspects were found by officers shortly after the incident and arrested. The investigation determined it was a targeted attack. “These acts of violence have no place in our community,” said Sgt. Josh Roda. “Our officers responded quickly and completed

of a byelection in this situation, knowing that we are beginning our recovery from the worst disaster ever to hit Merritt, and that the deadline for not holding a byelection due to proximity to the General Election is only two weeks away. “More than ever, Merritt must remain united. I am grateful for the councillors and city staff for putting the residents of Merritt before themselves. We wish Mike the best and are sorry he wasn’t able to complete his term.”

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on the basis of a neighbourhood constituency - Number of remaining council members is at least one greater than the quorum for the council. Mayor Brown said that it is still up in the air whether Merritt will receive a special exemption to not have to hold a by-election. “Elected service is an honour, and one in which we all must strive to do what we believe is right,” said Brown. “We are discussing with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs the appropriateness

December will be donated to Samaritan’s Purse to support Merritt Flood Relief”

a thorough investigation, which was forwarded to the BC Prosecution Service for charge assessment.” Adrianna Squakin has been charged with being unlawfully in a dwelling or house, assault with a weapon and mischief. The first court date for the defendant took place on Dec. 14, while the next court date is scheduled for Jan. 4.

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VIEWPOINT

MITRA: Finding design in natural disasters The recent splurge in stories emanating from natural disasters is surely creating fear and restlessness. Coming as it is just before Christmas activities, the heart-wrenching flood stories are replacing “joy to B.C. and the Atlantic provinces” with NARAYAN MITRA combined emotion of stress and You Gotta Have helplessness. FAITH Those who are watching the recent cycles of natural disasters in the form of earthquakes, wildfires and flood have been seeing a trend in the form of destruction and loss. Thankfully, the loss of lives has been minimal in B.C. and Canada compared to other areas in the world. In recent times, earthquakes, especially in Asia and the Americas, have taken numerous lives. Mudslides have washed away entire villages in Central America and, a few years back, fear of bird flu mutating and invading the human race challenged any talk of growth in a nation’s GDP. I wish I could distance myself from the questions raised by natural disasters. In some ways, it is easier for me to address human needs than to process such disasters theologically — to find reasons for massive suffering and death. But I am beginning to question why we have this apparent mindless, meaningless madness of epic biblical proportions. Is God telling us something specific? Is this the beginning of the end? On one hand, I wish I knew the definitive answers, but that requires me to be God himself. Having been relieved of that privilege and responsibility, my next best option is to seek answers in his final revelation in the Bible. Barring those absolute claims, I can only propose some

likely, but tentative responses with scriptural, philosophical and circumstantial warrant. Causes for unexplainable natural disasters are more complicated since the perpetrators seem invisible and their purposes incomprehensible. When it comes to man-made disasters, we can identify someone to blame. For example, unstoppable natural causes of global warming have been overrun by human causes linked to human activity, need and even greed. Mere human existence, population growth and economic requirements produce ripe conditions for natural disaster. The question of apparent randomness brings us to another factor in natural disasters. Regardless of human contribution to nature’s distortion, whether directly or indirectly, short-term or long-term, we also factor in Satan’s role in random human suffering and death. Satan defied God’s sovereignty and was cast out of heaven to Earth. Our Earth began to shudder and continues to tremble. That could explain why there are earthquakes occurring frequently. Only when humans are present do complex natural phenomena — many of them observable to physicists — turn into disasters. If no one died, we would have simply viewed them as natural, even normal, events. Cataclysms only turn into catastrophes when humans are affected. Nature is wobbly, infected and terrorized by Satan. He has been thrown down from heaven in eternity and toppled on earth in history. By sheer force of will and with his ongoing demonic influence, he continues his terrorist acts on earth. Natural disasters are not “acts of God” like the insurance industry would describe nature’s fury. They could just as easily be “acts of Satan.” We can underestimate Satan’s power, but anything he does is under the determinative con-

trol of God. In the above list of causes, we find many answers. But the question remains: Is there discernible divine meaning in natural disasters? I wish I could mine the mind of God to offer absolute answers concerning bad incidents. This problem of clarification applies to good circumstances as well, but natural disasters do communicate meanings about humanity, God and history. Natural disasters highlight man’s inability to predict and control. The quest of the secular humanist enterprise is deficient at its very premise because man is not the measure or foundation of anything. He is small, weak and at the mercy of the elements. Natural disasters call for humility before God and remind believers to find their security in him. Yet natural disasters can showcase human resilience and perseverance. People return to the same location and rebuild from scratch. Humans rebuild in the very areas prone to floods, hurricanes and earthquakes. That might be viewed by some as foolish, but they show human capacity to create something livable out of rubble against great odds. In fulfilment of the Godgiven mandate to rule nature (Gen.1:26,27), we can flourish precisely where we have endured calamity. Natural disasters may bring out the best in compassion and community. Christians, with their special obligation to love their neighbours, ought to serve in the forefront of aid and relief efforts with unselfish abandon and generosity. Lastly, natural disasters induce reflection and repentance. In the face of disasters — be they man-made (Luke 13:1-3) or natural (Luke 13:4) — we must repent and evidence fruit (Luke 13:6-9). Narayan Mitra is the Pastor of Merritt Baptist Church.

Merritt Hospice Society: Dealing with grief during disaster

The recent floods have disrupted our lives even if we haven’t been directly impacted by the flood waters. Many people are struggling with change and uncertainty about safety and have worries about their future finances and the well-being of friends and family. You may find that you feel “not quite yourself ”. You may be distracted, anxious, irritable, angry, and fearful. You might feel a sense of hopelessness. The flood has stirred up emotions and thoughts that are very similar to those we experience when we grieve. Death is not the only time we grieve. It is normal to grieve whenever you lose something or someone important to you. The flood has led to a whole series of losses that are affecting our sense of safety, social connections, personal freedoms, and daily routines. At the same time it has caused significant changes and losses in our healthcare, economic, and government systems. It is normal to have thoughts or questions that may not have answers when you grieve.

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

MERRITT HERALD

There are some things you can do that may help you through the Pandemic and may help you feel better, such as: Feel what you feel - Feelings are not right or wrong. Let your emotions move through you. When you suppress or avoid these feelings they tend to become bigger. Stay informed but set limits on exposure to “bad news” - It’s important to know what’s happening, but set limits on how much time you spend on the news reports and “bad news” stories. Focus on the positives, such as kindness, humour, and creativity. Focus on what you can control – Follow the guidance of the Public Health experts. Try to look after yourself by healthy eating, exercise, and getting enough sleep. Connect with others – Have regular phone calls with family and friends. Connect using Skype, Face Time or social media. Help friends or neighbours, following guidelines for social distancing. Show support and appreciation

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

for those in essential roles. Get support for your mental health – If you need more help, reach out. Many national and provincial mental health programs have set up online and telephone supports. Check out the local mental health and other support services such as Merritt Hospice and BC Bereavement Helpline. Use online resources such as Canadian Virtual Hospice. Connect or reconnect with your faith community. When you are in the depths of your grief, it can be hard to believe that you can heal and take part in life again. Grief comes in waves. It’s more like a hilly, winding road than a mountain. Everyone grieves differently. The changes you see in yourself and those around you could be your responses to grief. Try to be kind and patient with yourself and others in these challenging times. Submitted by Merritt Hospice Society.

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

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This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

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THURSDAY, December 16, 2021 • 7

OPINION

LETTERS to the editor

Video may have overstepped boundaries, says citizen Editor, I note in your article “Stay-behinds question City of Merritt’s methods” references to the residents who described living in a “gulag”, and you quoted Ms. Hentze’s video, in which she expressed a belief police would arrive at her door to make her wear an armband denoting her stay-behind status. This after Merritonians were offered news of a

life-threatening emergency, support being evacuated, and provided paid accommodation and groceries while they were gone, followed by assistance returning home. To the cowards who cite such opinions, these jokes comparing the two situations might be cheap and easy. To those of us who are members of groups targeted by authoritarian rulers, and executed by dictators for nothing more than being who we are,

the remarks are depraved. I hope Ms. Hentze and her ilk have, with hindsight developed an ounce of human decency, utter shame, and a desire to abjectly apologise for their truly disgusting remarks. Charles Grove Merritt, BC

“We need to be there for each other,” says Councillor Editor, A catastrophe has hit Merritt, the likes of which we have never seen. A huge portion of our city has been decimated. It was absolutely vital to restore essential services as quickly and efficiently as possible. Crews needed to be able to rework roads and sewers and water mains and check electrical and gas infrastructure as quickly and safely as possible. Had access to Zone 4 been granted before this work was done, most of us would likely still be on evacuation order – we would have no water and no sewer capability – which would mean no hospital, no fire protection, no business community. The amount of

work needed to be done was absolutely staggering and I am in awe of our public works employees. Three weeks after unbelievable destruction, most of our city is functioning normally and 5,000 evacuees have returned home. That’s good news. We need to hear some good news. But that victory has come at a price. A significant part of our community is still hurting – badly. They need our help. They have borne the brunt of this catastrophe. They have more than enough to deal with. There is more than enough anger and hurt to go around. They don’t need anyone sensationalizing their pain nor capitalizing on it. They need help. They will not be left behind. As precious as

the items are that have been lost or destroyed, nothing is as precious as our loved ones. We can replace things, we can’t replace people. We need to be there for each other. We can rebuild – maybe smarter and better. We are stronger together. Folks, you can be part of the solution to help us get back on our feet; or be part of the problem by continuing to fan the flames of despair. Think about it. Please help. Kurt Christopherson, City Councillor Merritt, BC

A letter of gratitude to Merritt Mayor, Council, and staff Editor, Making decisions at the best of times is not always easy but as the saying goes, it is a decision that “gets us” and a decision that “gets us anywhere.” So, for the role of Mayor and Council, it was decisions that got us through the fires and recently the flooding of the Coldwater River. When the call came from an old friend that it was time to leave my house and the invitation to be cared for by friends, I was happy to pack a few belongings and drive the few miles out of Merritt for as long as necessary. At 86 years old, I was glad to not have to drive a long distance not knowing where I would end up. I felt safe and cared for; was 2, 2021 December THURSDAY

m ttherald.co www.merri

graciously housed and well fed and even entertained from time to time with Johnny Cash vocal favourites to help stave off the question of “how long?” would this go on. Our hosts worked tirelessly, often up in the early hours for an interview with the newscasters from the east. The phone rang for consultations day and night; decisions were in the making and and people were hurting, not to mention those workers who hardly ever slept while refurbishing the broken infrastructures of the city! Tired or not, there was no stopping the dedication of Mayor Linda Brown and her husband Ken Gillis (TNRD Chair). I watched their constant concerns and attention given to their duties over the course of the Nov. 15 to Dec. 3 ordeal.

I thank the Mayor for her generous and caring spirit towards an ‘old’ friend (me) and the welfare of all Merrittonians. The last three weeks have not been a time for politicking; that comes ten months from now! Let’s continue appreciating all the help, generosity and care that has been given by Samaritan’s Purse and Red Cross, not to mention so many citizens who have given and continue to give; as well as the Mayor, Council, and staff. Nell Veale Merritt, BC

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Passport to Christmas Has been cancelled for this year BUT.... We will be back next year bigger and better than ever!

8 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

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FRIENDS & Neighbours

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

SD58 plans to get all students Tim’s for Good makes the rounds back in classroom by mid-January Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM School District 58 has announced a new plan to give all of its students access to face-to-face learning again by midJanuary. “We couldn’t have achieved this important milestone of supporting in-person learning by mid-January without the kindness of the community,” said Stephen McNiven, superintendent of schools. Coquihalla Middle School will be made available in the new year for grade 8-10 students of Merritt Secondary School, which has no timeline yet for

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reopening. For Central Elementary students, the

district is working with both Crossroads and the Evangelical Free Church in order to access classrooms. Merritt Bench, Collettville, and Nicola Canford are all working on having the students of Diamond Vale Elementary join them by Monday, Dec. 13. “For us to have a plan

to be back with in-person learning so quickly is really remarkable,” said McNiven. “It is a story of community support and resilience, and we couldn’t be more grateful.” In Princeton, students of all grade levels continue to attend school at the shared learning spaces of Vermilion Forks Elementary, as there is still a “do not consume” order in the area of Princeton Secondary. SD58 reports that attendance has been good at Vermilion Forks through its first week as a shared school, and two and a half weeks after the floods.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 9

Clark Ave. resident recalls flood experience The Herald spoke to one resident who lives near the Coldwater River, who said he saw “the best come out in people”.

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Clarke Ave. is a short street north of the Coldwater river in Merritt. Little infrastructure exists to protect it, and neighbouring streets, from flooding. As such, on the morning of Nov. 15 when the Coldwater river experienced the highest waters in remembered history, residents in the area were hard hit. 72-year-old Brian Lee has lived in this area for five years, with his property being in his family since approximately 1990. Having no experience with extreme flooding during that time, nor any indication that any was coming when he went to bed on Nov. 14, Lee was surprised to be awoken around 3:30AM by the RCMP pounding on his door and advising him he was under an Evacuation Order and to leave before the Coldwater river enveloped his home. “They said wherever you have somebody you can stay with or go to, you should be going,” said Lee. At that time, the Merritt ESS Reception Centre was being established at the Civic Centre, but events had happened so quickly, first responders, city staff and residents were all scrambling to make plans. Lee took a few moments to consider his options. “Well, I don’t have anybody really close by and I don’t want to go anywhere,” he explained, and, as opposed to the intense wildfires which had threatened many lives this past summer, “Water is usually just a massive inconvenience.” By mid-morning, an Evacuation Order had been issued for the entire city of Merritt due to a failure of the wastewater treatment plant and the potable water systems. Lee soon found himself surrounded by water, cut off from the rest of the community, and without water, sewer, and hydro power. However, Lee was undeterred. Even when water was running several feet deep down Clarke Ave. at an estimated 12 - 15 km/hr and his four-and-a-halffoot crawlspace was “plumb full of water.” “I’m always more prepared than most people,” said Lee. “I have stored food, I have stored water, I have a generator.” Many residents who stayed behind following the Evacuation Order faced the ire of City officials and other resi-

dents, but Lee said that his reasons for staying were twofold. “One is security for my belongings, I’m not a well-off person, I live on a pension, and I don’t want people stealing what I have,” said Lee. “There is certainly looting going on in the rest of the year, let alone in a disaster, so it’s only heightened by emergencies like this one. That was first and foremost. Two, and this is just personal for me, I am happier knowing as it’s happening what the problems are, as opposed to being far away and worrying about the worst. I can deal with it here in some shape or fashion if I see it happening... but when you are away you are totally helpless, and you are at the whim of what other services or resources are available to you, which may be slim or none.” Indeed, once the news began to trickle back that Merrittonians were waiting days to receive assistance from ESS in Kamloops, sometimes sleeping in their vehicles or on the floor of the Reception Centre, Lee felt less inclined to leave his home, which came within four inches of flooding but no further. Lee, cooking on his BBQ and with an ingenious, heavy duty rocket stove, felt content to remain in his home. Mostly unconcerned by the lack of utilities and city services, he said the real issue was the fact that so many residents, evacuated or not, didn’t truly know what was happening. “The huge lack that I have seen is communication from the city management to the residents,” said Lee. “They may think they’re doing a great job, but they certainly are not. If people know what’s happening, they’re far more amenable to reasonable suggestions. But when you try to motivate people out of sheer fear with no logic or no information behind it, it’s not a good thing.” The highlight of the disaster, on the other hand, seemed to be the way that people pulled together and helped one another, particularly those like Lee who remained behind and were witness to the event from the final high water to the mess that was left behind. “I have seen the best come out in people,” said Lee. “Neighbours, people that I didn’t know, offered to help. In fact, one of them helped me by offering to lend me a pump that she had rented herself. I can’t stress how uplifting it was to meet

and converse with so many good-hearted people.” Lee remained in his home for two weeks, clearing debris, cleaning up damage, packing up what was important to him and securing what he would be leaving behind before evacuating to Penticton to stay with family. “Was anybody in danger for staying here?” Lee questioned. “No, but my clothes started walking around without me,” Lee joked. In order to return to his home, which is in Phase 4 and still under Evacuation Order, Lee had to arrange for a gas and electrical inspection and have the gas metres replaced, which he has now done. “It’s more of a psychological issue, for me anyway, than a physical damage issue,” said Lee. “For me, I know what the full extent of the problem was while I was there, so I didn’t have the worry and anxiety

about not knowing what damage had been done... so it was easier to leave.” The inconveniences of living without modern luxuries we have taken for granted for so long, such as hot running water, inspired a new respect in Lee for our ancestors and the pioneers for whom the day to day toil was normal. “Things that used to take you five minutes to do, all of a sudden take you half an hour to an hour,” he said. “That is the one thing that I have remarked to everybody.” Still, he doesn’t regret staying the course, and is looking forward to returning home, despite the work awaiting him. “I’ll be able to get back down into the crawl space because the water now is gone, but everything’s covered in mud and wet, soggy, disintegrated cardboard,” Lee explained, referring to his clean-up plan as “Bucket by bucket. But, I’m old and I’m tough.”

10 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021 MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

Celebrate-A-Life Tree

The holiday season is a time for sharing memories of family and friends who are no longer with us. Celebrate-A-Life with us this December by dedicating an ornament in memory of a friend or loved one. Stop by for your ornament and hang it on our Hospice Tree at Merritt’s ‘No Frills’ or hang it on your tree at home or contact our office and one of our volunteers will hang an ornament for you. At the end of the event, the ornaments will be collected and saved until the spring when our Hospice Volunteers can attend a special ceremony to turn these tributes into ashes.

The Celebrate-A-Life Tree will be available most of December at Merritt’s ‘No Frills’ with volunteers present 12:00-5:00 on the following days:

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

www.merrittherald.com

Helicopter into isolated Nicomen Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Tamara George, Executive Director Nlaka’pamux Health Services Society (NHSS). Despite the Nicomen river becoming a raging torrent, wiping out whole trees and massive boulders, the residents of the remote reserve decided to remain in Contact the Merritt & District their community rather than evacuate. Hospice Society “There was a lot of the community that evacuated www.merritthospice.org during the wildfires, but they didn’t have a great expePh: 250-280-1701 or rience I guess with ESS supports and wraparound supemail: merritthospice@shaw.ca ports,” explained George. “So, this time they decided not to evacuate, so they could stay within their homes.” When the bridge washed out, communications also went down and the people of Nicomen found themselves completely cut off from the outside world. “We knew it was crucial to have mental health supports, because by this time they were in isolation for almost a two-week period,” said George. A request to the province through Emergency Management BC was approved and NHSS was able to organize a helicopter to bring the necessary personnel in, including Merritt physician, Dr. Morgan Lyttle. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17 6:00 PM - MIDNIGHT In order to receive other supplies such as food, water, toiletries and other essentials, the community had constructed a helicopter landing pad, and it was there that the medical flight was supposed to land. “It was kind of interesting on our day because they got the coordinates wrong and ended up landing somewhere else,” laughed with gun George. “It worked out better because they were closer to the health centre, but the nurses FRIDAY, December 17 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM were literally climbing under barbed wire fences, it made it a little bit of an adventure in.” Everything in the store *Excluding sales items From 10AM – 2PM nurses were able to FRIDAY, December 17 6:00 - 8:00 PM treat 12 patients, visit regular NHSS clients, provide home care and distribute medication Gift as needed while Dr. Lyttle also saw patients. The First Nations Health Authority Certificates (FNHA) will also be delivering regular preAvailable At Everything in the store All Body Jewellery All Body Jewellery scription medication on Dec. 9 when nurses Sale Price *Excluding sales items *With your piercing are flown in for a vaccine clinic. *Without piercing Although a temporary bridge is expected FRIDAY & SATURDAY to be in place by Dec. 15, another flight in may be organized if road access to the community is delayed, with a focus on Nicomen $ Tanning Punchcard Reg. 59.95 Tanning Products residents’ mental health. “We’re looking at additional mental health supports,” explained George. “They’ve had a long year with the Lytton Everything in the store from Friday 10:00 pm - 12:00 am wildfire impacts, and this is re-traumatizing, I think. And with a community that already has such a lack of service due to the rural and remote aspect of it, they depended on the Interior Health site See ‘HEALTH” Page 12 Thurs Dec 9 Sat Dec 11 Fri Dec 17

• Fri Dec 10 • Thur Dec 16 • Sat Dec 18

On Dec. 3 a helicopter carrying health and mental health professionals took off from the Merritt airport en route to Nicomen. Nicomen, an indigenous community of roughly 50 people located just off Hwy 1 east of Lytton, has been cut off since the only bridge providing access collapsed in the extreme flooding event of Nov. 15. “We got a request from Chief Norman Drynock needing mental health and health professionals,” said

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

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already a lot of barriers in place,” said George. George commended the resiliency of the community and the strong leadership of Chief Drynock, as well as Health Director Arlene Edwards and councillors Darren Cressy and Chris Walkem. Also integral were FNHA, and Interior Health, which paid for the physician’s time, and the NHSS. “NHSS is such a new society, but I think this shows some of the great work we can do with our partners,” said George.

“Interior Health, FNHA, the doctors, Divisions of Family Practice, it was a real collaboration.” In future, NHSS hopes to host a “mental health event”, perhaps bringing some form of entertainment to the tight knit neighbourhood. “To let the community know that they’re not forgotten about, and that we care, and we’re here,” said George. “And that we are worried about them and their mental health, and their general health, too.”

WE WANT LETTERS TO SANTA! Watch for them in The DECEMBER 23 EDITION OF THE MERRITT HERALD

We can help with:

• • • •

• Dependent Care Work Boots • Tools (if new in the trade) Work Clothes • Commuting Supports Work Gear Certificates like First Aid, Food Safe or Construction Safety Training *eligibility conditions apply

WorkBC offers FREE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES, and one-on-one assistance with an Employment Advisor.

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This program is funded by the Government of Canada

Email your letter to: Classifieds@Merrittherald.com or Drop Them Off At The Merritt Heard Office 2090 Granite Avenue, Merritt BC We will make sure that Santa gets them!

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 13

www.merrittherald.com

Christmas is different this year, make it different for the planet too.

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14 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

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Please Don’t Drink, Drug & Drive Too many people are arrested every holiday season after failing breathalyzer tests at police roadside checkpoints. Driving while intoxicated puts your own life in danger, but the worst thing is that it endangers the lives of other road users as well. Make sure that this festive time of year doesn’t end in tragedy for you or anyone else. Ph: 250-378-9446 3499 Voght Street

Christmas time often means one party after another with drinks galore. When you accept an invitation, plan ahead of time how you’re going to get home. Members of the same family or group of friends can designate a driver, arrange to share a taxi at the end of the evening, or use a free or for-hire drive home service.

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The Conayt Friendship Society The Conayt Friendship Alcohol and Drug ProgramSociety is very concerned about Alcohol and Drug Program is very DO NOT drink, drug and drive. concerned about PLEASE BE SAFE DO NOT drink, drug and drive. this holiday season!

PLEASE BE SAFE this holiday season!

It might be hard to remember this when under the influence, but a person’s behaviour and faculties are altered by alcohol. When blood alcohol content is over 0.5 g/l, a driver’s field of vision shrinks, distance perception changes, visual reaction times increase, there is more sensitivity to glare, and vigilance and resistance to fatigue are reduced. Perhaps the ultimate danger is that alcohol consumption results in a loss of inhibition, which causes drivers to under-evaluate dangers and break traffic laws.

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16 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 17

Volunteers wanted for Food Bank help at NVIT Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

In response to the needs of residents who were without clothing, toiletries, food, and all manner of day-to-day essentials, the Nicola Valley Food Bank set up a distribution centre at the Lower Nicola Community Hall. When the Evacuation Order for Merritt began to be rescinded in phases, the distribution centre moved to the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) gym, where, if anything, the need has only increased. Derlanda Hewton, General Manager of the Food Bank, and Vanya Beck, a volunteer who helped to coordinate in Lower Nicola, have been run off their feet managing the donations that have been pouring in. “It started in Lower Nicola, so I was helping there the entire time and when it moved up here, we thought, ok the Merrittonians will take over what we were doing,” explained Beck. “But, with what’s happening here, either you’re flooded, you’re helping your friends

or whoever who have been flooded, or you’re back to work. So, the need for volunteers is huge, because everybody is getting back and doing what needs to be done.” Beck became an “accidental” volunteer. “I came up one day to check on Derlanda and see how she was, and she was so excited to see me I stayed. The need is so great, you can’t not help.” Volunteer Sharon Sedore felt the same way, also following the distribution centre from Lower Nicola to NVIT. Sedore’s daughter has a home in Phase 4 that was heavily damaged, and so the family has been staying together. “Little did I realize how wonderful it was going to be to have her and my grandkids come out there, but it wasn’t enough, I felt like what else can I do?” said Sedore, who was one of nearly 30 volunteers in Lower Nicola in the early days of flood relief. “You know how there are opposites? The disaster was the bad part, but the good part is all of the willing people that were coming out to make it rise. It balanced it out. What happened in Lower Nicola, the community came together to help those that they could, and we became closer just by doing it. We met neighbours that we never would have known. There’s always an upside and a downside, and there sure seems to be a lot of positive coming out of this.” Beck noted that donations are coming in steady, in fact, while the Herald was on site, a truck from Kelowna with two containers full of donations was waiting to unload, as was a smaller truck. For several weeks planes from the West Coast Pilot Club out of Langley, have landed at Merritt Airport with donations onboard, organized by the Lower Mainland Sikh community. The Merritt Centennials have been on hand to assist, but the turnover is so high, Beck said that more volunteers are desperately needed. “There’s always something to do,” said Sedore, who encourages people to come down and lend a hand, even if it’s only for a short time. “Even if you’re shy and you don’t want to be in front of people, there’s still so much you can do behind the scenes. Whether it’s making sandwiches, unloading trucks, or sorting out bags. The reward that you get back in your heart can’t be explained. It sounds so corny, but it’s not…It’s the best job I ever had without getting paid, but the payment that I’m getting is better than any paycheque.” Because the people of Merritt and around BC have been so generous, physical donations at times overwhelm the space, and Hewton has been putting out calls for specific items which have been requested. Beck has seen a need for rubber boots, work gloves, work boots, winter clothing, blankets, and items to assist in flood recovery and clean up. Everyone is invited to come to the NVIT gym at 4155 Belshaw St. between 12-4 where they can browse donated goods and have a sandwich and a coffee. “We just try to make them feel as wanted and welcomed as we can,” said Beck.

18 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

SPORTS

www.merrittherald.com

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

JUNIOR HOCKEY

HELPING HAND: The Merritt Centennials filled over 250 sandbags last week to replenish those that were donated for flood relief efforts. Photo submitted

Trio of Cents named to Blazers heading to World Top Prospects game Junior Championship Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM

Three Centennials players will be representing Merritt at the BCHL’s Top Prospects game on Jan. 14 in Penticton. Defensemen Tristan Allen and Jacob Dewitt will be joined by forward Davide Patella on the Interior Conference roster. The 18-year old Allen, who has posted a goal and six assists in his second year in a Cents uniform, will also be lacing it up in the All-Star game the following day. Dewitt, a veteran of seven WHL games with the Regina Pats, is in his first year as a Cent and has notched seven points in 17 games. Patella is also a Cents rookie, having managed three goals and two assists so far in this campaign.

Merritt vs Centennials

For the second consecutive year, two Kamloops Blazers will represent Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championship. Goaltender Dylan Garand and forward Logan Stankoven were on the list when Hockey Canada named the 25-man roster for the tournament on Sunday after the conclusion of selection camp in Calgary. Garand and Connor Zary of the Blazers represented Canada in the last

KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

tournament, winning a silver medal. “Honestly, my only goal is winning a gold medal,” said Garand, who boasts a 15-4 record and .932 save percentage this season. “I feel like my first year was kind of eye opening, like, oh my god, I’m on the big stage, with so much attention from the media and you’re worried about your role, stuff like that.” The 2022 world juniors will get underway on Boxing Day in Edmonton and Red Deer.

ALL GAMES AT THE TOWN TOYOTA CENTER WENATCHEE WILD THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 6:00 P.M. WENATCHEE WILD FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 7:05 P.M. WENATCHEE WILD SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 6:00 P.M.

FOR TICKETS DROP BY 2001C VOGHT ST, OR CALL JARED AT 250-378-3604

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COMMUNITY

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 19

understood the uncertainty and stress such a situation can cause for people. And how much a delicious, hot meal can improve a bleak day. “It was a pleasure to be able to do that for you guys.” The Sugar

Shack has been in operation at 2481 Willow Dr. and Hwy 97 in 70 Mile House since 2012, with Brenda joining Robert in the business in 2014. You can find them on Facebook, or online at www.sugarshackbc.ca.

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Sugar Shack feeds volunteers and evacuees free of charge Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM As the Evacuation Order began to be rescinded phase by phase and Merrittonians began to return home, the Nicola Valley Food Bank moved their operations to the gym at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT). The campus soon became a hub for evacuees and volunteers alike, with hundreds of people dropping by each day. With the catastrophic flooding making the news

across the province, people and businesses offered what they could to help out. Enter Robert and Brenda of the Sugar Shack, an eatery based in 70 Mile House. They were approached by a friend, on behalf of K-Line trailers in Langley, to see if they would be interested in taking their food truck to Merritt where they could feed evacuees, volunteers, and anyone else who might need a hot meal.

“Right away, we were on board,” said Brenda. “So, in collaboration with them, CanGas gave us the propane for free, Frank’s Custom Meats (Lac la Hache) gave us a donation of some of the meat, Sysco Kelowna donated some potatoes as well… so, with that we said, why not?” Because the Sugar Shack depends mainly on the traffic that travels Hwy 97, they have been heavily affected by the closures of the Coquihalla and Hwy 1, as well as

the restrictions on travel on Hwys 3 & 99. A normal week might see Robert and Brenda work twelve or even 16- or 18-hour days, every day. But the reduction in traffic offered them the ability to bring delicious Montreal smoked meat, their famous poutine, and beaver tails with maple butter to the Nicola Valley. “We can still pay the bills, we can still put food on the table, so why not help somebody else?” said Brenda. “We decided to just try to feed as many people as we

could. And there was so much gratitude, they were so grateful, they were so happy to see us there.” Although many people offered to pay, the Sugar Shack continued to provide meals at no cost. “We want to do something nice for your community, and this is the only thing we do,” explained Brenda. “So, we do what we know. We love it, it’s our life.” The pair had their own experience with displacement, having been evacuated in years past for wildfires, so they

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church

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

Merritt Baptist Church

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

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

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

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

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

Trinity United Church

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

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

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

IS YOUR FURNACE READY FOR WINTER Don’t get caught off guard by a broken heater when you need it most. Give your furnace a tune-up before the cold hits.

BE SURE TO KEEP THE FAMILY WARM & SAFE THIS WINTER

250-378-5104

2151 Coutlee Ave., coppervalley@uniserve.com

20 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

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Merritt Rotary Club receives donations for flood victims

L to R: Justin Shap, David Brown, Hudson Moyes Street, Paula Moyes, Emory Street.

The Rotary Club of Merritt continues to assist those impacted by the flood. Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD. COM Since fundraising began in late November, more than $211,000 has been raised, 100% of which goes directly back into the community to citizens in need. This does not include a GoFundMe which was previously launched by Bailee Allen and Mark Nendick that has now surpassed $62,000 and will soon be given over to the Rotary Club. On the morning of Dec. 14, cheques were presented to David Brown, Co-Treasurer of the Rotary Club, from the Nicola Valley Healthcare Auxiliary, the Moyes families, and Home Hardware for $10,000, $5,000 and $5,000, respectively. “We’re just happy to make the donation to this cause, and we just wish everyone well,” said Peter Moyes fol-

lowing the cheque presentation. “To tell you the truth, we at our Rotary Club are blown away by the generosity and outpouring of giving that we have witnessed from our local community as well as those from other parts of BC who have rallied together to help Merritt,” said Brown. “This is what Rotary is all about. Helping families and individuals in their time of need with compassion and empathy. The volunteerism that we have seen is what knits this community together. There is no greater calling than to be ‘In Service of Others’.” The Rotary Club employs a simple vetting process which identifies those most in need and directs the necessary funds to them. Information on donating, or making an application for funding, can be found at www.rotarymerritt.com.

L to R: Jacquie Hall, David Brown, Betty Doberstein, Betty Pockrant, Hiro Yasuda.

Employees of Home Hardware present a cheque for $5,000 to David Brown of the Merritt Rotary Club.

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 21

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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 Obituaries

Obituaries

Darlene Annie MUNRO

Doris E. Miller

January 17, 1958 ~ December 7, 2021

December 9, 1923 November 23, 2021

A woman who touched so many hearts

Love’s greatest gift is remembrance. Employment

Mom passed away peacefully at the care home in Williams Lake just short of her 98th birthday. She was born in Mikeesport, Penn and immigrated to the Yukon at a very early age. There she met and married our dad Butch. They moved to Merritt 47 years ago and spent the rest of their lives here. She was predeceased by husband Butch in 2009 and son Allan in 2001. She is survived by sisters Ila and Marie, daughters Donna and Cynthia (Gary), grandchildren Lori (Clive), Dave (Shelley), James, Pam (Rich), Shea, Darlene (Ben), great grandchildren Keith, Bailey, Corbin, Cameron, Drake, Teagan and Ewan, Great Great grandson Emmitt. Special thank you to the staff at Gillis house who took such good care of her. Also thanks to Dr. Simpson. We will always love and miss you mom. Love the family

Merritt Funeral Chapel A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

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

Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m

www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY There is much talk these days about closure . Saying good-bye to someone we love, even after they have died, doesn t require that we put an end to the relationship. P: 250-280-1701

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

Never Quit When things go wrong as they sometimes will,

We regret to announce the passing of Darlene Annie Munro. She was a mother, sister, grandma, aunty, coworker and friend. You could always find her with a smile on her face. She was the most generous person you’d cross paths with. She enjoyed her morning coffee any chance she could. Over anything she loved her family. She is survived by her loving children; son, Robert Munro (Jessica Munro and Shawn Munro) daughter Keisha Munro. Along with her siblings Victor, Jean, Barb, Jack, Jill, Cheryl, and many nieces and nephews, cousins and all the friends that became family. Darlene was predeceased by her parents Victor and Shirley Munro, grandparents Anne and William Munro, long time lover finance Richard Zehanoviz. She will be greatly missed by so many.

Announcements

Success is failure turned inside out –

Domestic Cars

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing down a bit,

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far, So, stick to the ﬁght when you’re hardest hit – It’s when things seem worst that You must not quit!

PRODUCTION WORKERS

• Wages: starting $20 to $25 • Steady day shift work • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train

TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1 Local steady work

CARPENTERS

1ST & 2ND YEAR MECHANICS

May the Sunshine of Comfort Dispel the Clouds of despair

Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.

When funds are low and debts are high

VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT

• Wages: starting $35 to $45 Depends on experience

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

When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill

Employment

1995 Sunfire Black. Only 35,000km’s on new motor. Good Winter Tires Summer Mags. Runs Great. $1,400 obo. (250) 315 - 7942

Employment

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

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

FIRST NATIONS SUPPORT WORKER School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) is accepting applications for a Temporary First Nations Support Worker for Merritt for 7 hours per day, 10 months per year starting January 2022 to June 30, 2022. The successful applicant will be responsible for providing social/emotional support, communicating with students and parents/guardians, tutoring, and cultural education. Electronic application submissions are accepted at www.sd58.bc.ca {click on Employment, Current Job Postings, (Job Code # 3157173) and follow the prompts}. Applications, including a detailed resume with a minimum of three references, will be accepted until filled, with a start date of January 3, 2022. Please forward to: Attention: Lindsey Henderson Manager of Human Resources School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) P.O. Box 4100, 1550 Chapman Street Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Only those applicants being interviewed will be contacted.

22 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

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SUDOKU

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

Warm up with a rich, chocolate beverage Nothing beats sipping a hot, soothing beverage after a day of choosing the perfect Christmas tree or lobbing snowballs in the backyard. Teas, hot toddies, coffees, and mulled ciders certainly can fit the bill, but a mug of rich hot chocolate is a holiday season staple. Hot chocolate can be whipped up quickly from premade packets, but many such packets are loaded with sugar. Chocolate lovers should have a reliable hot chocolate recipe to lean on when the moment is right. This recipe for “Real Hot Chocolate” from “Chocolate” (Parragon) by the editors of Love Food is sure to please.

Real Hot Chocolate Serves 1 to 2

• 1½ ounces semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces • 1¼ cups milk • Chocolate curls to decorate Place the chocolate in a large, heatproof pitcher. Place the milk in a heavy-bottom saucepan and bring to a boil. Pour about one-quarter of the milk onto the chocolate and leave until the chocolate has softened. Whisk the milk and chocolate mixture until smooth. Return the remaining milk to the heat and return to a boil, then pour onto the chocolate, whisking constantly. Pour into warmed mugs or cups and top with the chocolate curls. Serve immediately.

ACROSS

1. You fry food in it 4. Pesky insect 8. Gets older 10. __ Dern, actress 11. Uncouth man 12. One who sulks 13. Napoleon’s king of Naples 15. One who swims underwater 16. Make amends 17. Expressions

DOWN

1. Town in central Brazil 2. Large burrowing rodent 3. Nerve cell 4. Estimating 5. Bakers use it 6. Regions 7. Small lake 9. Environmentalist nun 10. More kookie 12. Announce ofﬁcially 14. Israeli city __ Aviv 15. Title given to friar

18. Document format 21. What a beaver makes 22. Limb 23. Photograph 24. Golf score 25. Moroccan mountain range 26. Wrinkled dog breed: Shar __ 27. 20th century sex symbol 34. Remedy for all diseases

35. Bluish greens 36. Moved swiftly 37. Type of units 38. Madames 39. Indian religious god 40. Potentially hazardous asteroids 41. Leak slowly through 42. An association of criminals 43. A way to push content (abbr.)

17. Inches per minute (abbr.) 19. Buildings 20. Pouch 23. They steal on the high seas 24. It’s mightier than the sword 25. Going off on a tangent 26. Monetary unit 27. Young woman 28. Type of bulb

29. Type of drug (abbr.) 30. City opposite Dusseldorf 31. Animal disease 32. Martini necessities 33. Elude 34. La __: Buenos Aires capital 36. An oft-enduring symbol

TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

THURSDAY December 16, 2021 • 23

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Y o u r Local Business Directory DENTIST

TREE SERVICE

ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE HERE FOR YOU!

JIM POTTER

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

CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

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

Solutions for your tree problems!

ng i t a e H & g n i b m u Nicola Pl

• Bouquets • Arrangements • Plants • Local Made Giftware

Fully Qualied Tradesmen in..

@missvickispetalsandplants

PHONE: 250-378-4943

2052B Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC • 250-378-5575

2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC

CLEANING SERVICES CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS REMOVAL

NOW HIRING!

LICENSED CANNABIS Quilchena Cannabis Co. Quilchena Canna Company

250-378-9410

www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com

FLOOD SERVICES

CARPET/UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING

DanAlbas4COSN

FLOWER SHOP

PLUMBING & HEATING

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters. Service Work & Furnace Service. Custom Sheet Metal Atlas RV Parts & Repairs

@DanAlbas

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

S T BE

19+

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

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED!

PRIME ADVERTISING LOCATION! This is a full colour business card size space on a 1, 3, 6 month or more contract. Be sure to give me a call if you want to reserve your advertisement in this spot.

Ask for ken • 250-378-4241

or email: classifieds@merrittherald.com

ADVERTISING MERRITT HERALD

Advertising works! Place your ad in our Business Directory! For more information contact Ken at:

241 250-378-4 ublishing.com

kcouture@aberdeenp

24 • THURSDAY, December 16, 2021

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MerrittMerritt Real Estate Services Ltd.Ltd. HELPING SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! HELPINGYOU YOU IS IS WHAT WHAT WE WE DO! SERVING MERRITT & AREA FOR 40 YEARS! Real Estate Services Visit: www.royallepage.ca/merritt Looking to sell? Call one of our for a complete list of current listings agents to see what your home is worth. 3499 Voght St. Merritt BC • 250-378-6181 email: rlpmerit@telus.net 2025 GRANITE AVENUE

$8.00/SQFT TRIPLE NET

HURRY!!! EXCITING COMMERCIAL LEASE OPPORTUNITY CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN CORE AND RIGHT NEXT DOOR TO MERRITT’S BUSY POST OFFICE. We have four (4) individual office spaces still available at approximately 230 sq ft each for lease. Previous use was a medical clinic. Each office can be renovated for your specific needs. Lease rates are between $450.00 and $500.00 per month triple net per each office space. There is great exposure with curb side parking as well as some additional parking in the rear. The new C-6 zoning is very flexible which allows for commercial retail, office, and/ or food primary. MLS# 161182

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

537 WILD ROSE DRIVE

$299,900 441 BARWICK AVENUE JUST 15 MINUTES FROM TOWN THIS 4.6 ACRE PARCEL IS THE PERFECT AREA FOR THE OUTDOORSMAN! Tons of lakes nearby for the fisherman and easy access to the outdoors. There is a shallow well in place and great building spots to capture the view.

$314,900

OLD

75 X 200 FT PRIVATE LOT IN LOWER NICOLA WITH DETACHED GARAGE, HUGE FENCED GARDEN AND AMAZING PRIVATE PATIO AREA. The manufactured home & addition have recent electrical inspection/upgrade!

MLS#162745

MLS#164394

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

$145,000 18 BRECCIA DRIVE

112-308 CHARTRAND AVENUE

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

$469,900

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

MLS#164663 Owner/Broker

MLS# 161182

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

383 BASALT DRIVE

$419,900 19 GALENA AVENUE

$449,900

THIS CATHEDRAL ENTRY HOME IS PERFECT FOR THE BUSY FAMILY. RECENTLY UPGRADED KITCHEN AND FINISHED BASEMENT. uSome of the many upgrades include modern light fixtures, roof replaced five years ago, newer hot water tank, new furnace 2019, all flooring redone and bathroom has been modernized, and water softener installed 2019. MLS#164318

THERE ARE THREE ROOMY BEDROOMS ON THE MAIN FLOOR WITH A 4 PIECE BATH AND 2 PIECE ENSUITE. This home is situated on a beautiful fenced lot with backing onto greenspace. The basement has great storage area, rec room, hobby room, and a workshop.

SOL

MLS#162945

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

7-2390 SEYOM CRESCENT

$299,000 SL3-6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

COMPLETELY UPDATED! THIS UNIT IS A MUST SEE WITH 3 BEDROOMS & 1.5 BATHROOMS. . Come view this tastefully updated unit with a new Kitchen with island, new flooring throughout, fully updated bathrooms & all new paint.

$250,000

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

MLS#165115

MLS#164810

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

2299 CHARTERS STREET

$365,000 2137A QUILCHENA AVENUE NICE BUNGALOW WITH TWO BEDROOMS ON MAIN FLOOR WITH A POSSIBLE THIRD IN BASEMENT. Located on a large corner lot in quiet part of town. Long term tenant in place.

$650,000 APPROXIMATELY 5000 SQUARE FEET OF RETAIL SPACE plus a three bedroom tenanted suite above. This storefront location is right in the downtown core.

MLS#162602

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

MLS#163632 Managing Broker

All of us at Royal LePage would like to say thank you to everyone involved in the flood recovery effort. From the many workers and volunteers with boots on the ground, to all those working tirelessly in the background to make it all possible. We have seen our community put in a truly inspirational effort in the last few weeks and could not be more proud.

Merritt Herald December 16, 2021

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