MH November 25, 2021 by Merritt Herald

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALD THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, November 25, 2021 •

BRIDGES GONE The communities of Spius Creek, Petit Creek, and Nooaitch were not spared from the floods.

/PAGE 12

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COME TOGETHER The MSS junior boys v-ball squad rejoined in Revelstoke for a memorable tournament.

/PAGE 13

AIR ASSIST: Tina the jersey cow is being prepared to be airlifted via helicopter from an isolated section of the washed out Highway 8. (Kelly Kennedy/Submitted) STORY/PG.7

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City implements Return Home Plan

THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 3

INSIDE THE HERALD Opinion ------------------------- 6 Sports ------------------ 14-15 Classifieds ---------- 16-17

WEATHER WEATHER MERRITT

Nov. 25: Showers 10°/3°C Nov. 26: Partly Cloudy 5°/0°C Nov. 27: Showers 4°/4°C Nov. 28: Partly Cloudy 8°/3°C Nov. 29: Showers 5°/2°C

Flooding is shown on Neilson St. on Nov. 15. Part of the area of the City of Merritt south of Nicola Ave., this location will be part of Phase 3 of the Return Home Plan. Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM The official Return Home Plan has been released by the City of Merritt, set out into three different phases for timetables for residents to return home. Phase 1 of the plan was implemented at 12p.m. noon on Tues. Nov. 23, for properties north of the RCMP station in the Bench area. Phase 1: North of the RCMP Station - The Phase 1 area has been put on “Evacuation Alert” status. - The Phase 1 area is on “Boil Water Notice”, meaning that all water must be boiled before it is consumed. - The City asks that residents be extremely conscious of water use, as the Kengard well is the only well currently feeding this system and minimizing water use is necessary to preserve fire flow. - Prior to return, residents should acquire sufficient food and supplies to be self-sufficient for 72hours. Grocery stores in the Phase 1 area are now functioning, though reduced hours may be in place and there is no guarantee on what products will be available. - Garbage and recycling service will commence the week of November 29th, 2021 (commercial service will begin

immediately). - The City will be providing reduced levels of snow clearing service. - The City has reduced flows for fire protection, which is being partially offset by water tanker and water truck vehicles on standby. All hydro, gas, and internet facilities will be operational. The City is working alongside School District 58 in developing a plan for students to return to in-person learning, though locations have not yet been established. While the City is in this phase, the roadblocks will remain in place on Voght Street at Grimmett Street, on Nicola Avenue at Juniper Drive, and on Nicola Avenue at Coldwater Road. Phase 2: Between the RCMP Station and Nicola Avenue The City has indicated that the Phase 2 area was not directly affected by the flooding, though prior to lifting the Evacuation Order, additional testing needs to be completed while the Kengard well fills the Grimmett reservoir. Once the reservoir supply is increased, Phase 2 residents will be able to return to their homes. It is anticipated that an update regarding the Phase 2 Order, including a possible lifting, will be provided by Thurs.

Nov. 25, with similar limitations to Phase 1 in place. Phase 3: South of Nicola Avenue (Flood Inundation Zone) Within this area of Merritt, there is quite a mix of properties that were and were not directly affected by the flooding. Though no specific timeframe is yet in place as to when the Order will be lifted for these neighbourhoods, the City has indicated in a release that it will be “established as soon as possible”, with a goal set to give an update by Nov. 25 or earlier. The lifting of the Order will most likely be on a block-by-block basis in this phase. Now that Rapid Damage Assessments have been completed, the City is looking to enact daytime-only access to most properties within the Phase 3 zone. This will allow residents to collect belongings, assess damage, and begin cleaning and damage mitigation activities. In total, 460 buildings were assessed as ‘green’, 232 as ‘yellow’, and 16 as ‘red’. For areas within Phase 3 where damage was more substantial both to structures and utilities, the Evacuation Order could remain in place for an extended period of time. The full Return Home Plan can be found on the City of Merritt website.

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Nov. 30: Rain 5°/3°C

WEATHER KAMLOOPS

Nov. 25: Partly Cloudy 8°/5°C Nov. 26: Partly Cloudy 8°/1°C Nov. 27: Light rain 5°/5°C Nov. 28: Partly Cloudy 9°/2°C Nov. 29: Showers 5°/3°C Nov. 30: Showers 6°/3°C

WEATHER KELOWNA

Nov. 25: Snow/Rain 5°/3°C Nov. 26: Partly Cloudy 8°/0°C Nov. 27: Light Rain 5°/4°C Nov. 28: Partly Cloudy 9°/3°C Nov. 29: Showers 6°/3°C Nov. 30: Showers 6°/4°C

Online merrittherald.com

BREAKING NEWS The Herald will continue to keep readers up-to-date with the latest breaking news regarding the Evacuation Order as well as the flooding situation across BC.

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

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

4 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

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THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 5

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Frustration sets in for evacuees in Kamloops It has now been over one week since the city-wide evacuation, and some residents who were sent to Kamloops claim that they have still not received any assistance from ESS.

n the morning of Nov. 15, the Coldwater River, which winds through part of the city of Merritt, began a rapid rise that had water levels climb from a seasonal average to a raging torrent in a matter of hours. Those nearest the river were ordered to evacuate in the very early hours of that morning, while a complete failure of the wastewater and potable water systems caused a city-wide Evacuation Order around 10:00 AM later that same day. The earliest evacuees were sent to register at the Merritt Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre, which was opened at the Merritt Civic Centre. Once the entire city was ordered to evacuate, the Merritt ESS was closed and residents of odd-numbered houses were sent to Kamloops ESS and those with even-numbered addresses were sent to Kelowna. It has now been over one full week since the city-wide evacuation, and some residents who were sent to Kamloops claim that they have still not received any assistance since registering with ESS. One of those is Cpl. Derrick Francis of the Merritt RCMP, who was home sick when the flooding began and directed to Kamloops as per his house’s address. The Herald spoke to Francis on Friday, at which time he and his wife had still not received a follow up call after registering with ESS on Monday. “The ESS process in Kamloops has been just awful, and I’m just trying to advocate for some people,” said Francis. “We registered online on Monday, and attended in person here in Kamloops on Tuesday... so we showed up to Kamloops, it was a four hour wait

which is totally expected, but they wrote our name and number on a sticky note and they just had thousands of sticky notes hanging around. They said you’ll have to wait for a phone call from us, and any expenses that you incur before you receive that phone call are on your own. Basically, you shouldn’t get a room or food before you hear from us.” After numerous other evacuated residents echoed these issues to government officials, including Merritt Mayor Linda Brown and Fraser-Nicola MLA, Jackie Tegart, Deputy Premier Mike Farnworth announced on Nov. 20 that for those who were supporting themselves out of pocket during the evacuation, the province would reimburse those expenses. “This past week has challenged all of us time and time again, and while we’ve seen countless examples of heroism and community resilience, we are still very much responding to this emergency and we will be for the next short while,” said Farnworth, whose regular government position is Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “For those who have been waiting, we will be reimbursing accommodation costs for those who are eligible. The process for that reimbursement is being worked through right now.” However, Francis is concerned for those who don’t have the means to provide for themselves without the vouchers. “When I was at the ESS Centre, there were a number of people there that I know from work or have dealt with through work, that I know don’t have the means that some of us do,” said Francis. “And if you don’t have a credit card, and you’re waiting for your vouchers to book a room or your vouchers to get food, well, they were literally sleeping on the floor of the ESS Centre, and there were some sleeping in their vehicles.”

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Popular local Facebook group, the Merritt Grapevine, has become inundated with evacuated residents reaching out to share similar stories, noting that they are relying on the kindness of strangers in some cases to provide them with food. Francis has tried reaching out to various government officials and those at the head of ESS. “The Kamloops office said that we don’t talk to you people directly, you have to go to our front line people, so go back to MacArthur Island,” said Francis.

“When we have been back they said, please stop coming here, we’re overwhelmed. The suggestion now is that we should go to Kelowna. So, in the middle of that snow storm they’re saying go to Kelowna, and Kelowna came on the Grapevine and said please don’t, we’re overwhelmed. And many of our folks from Merritt came up here on buses that were provided, because they don’t have a car. These are the people I’m concerned with. We’re trying to advocate for some of these people who are literally stuck in Kamloops.” See ‘EVACUEES’ Page 8

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VIEWPOINT

ALBAS: A call for emergency debate over flooding crisis Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

MERRITT HERALD

We’re thankful that, since the onset of the flooding, the government has upheld a strong willingness to collaborate for the benefit of British Columbians who have faced devastating flooding over the DAN ALBAS past weeks. Conservative VIEW FROM Members of Parliament THE HILL represent many of the ridings impacted, and we want to ensure that a collaborative Team Canada approach continues in a manner that includes all levels of government across party lines.

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

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

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In the spirit of continued collaboration, the Conservative opposition are requesting an Emergency Debate under Standing Order 52.(1) at the earliest opportunity. Parliamentary collaboration is critical to help the province rebuild, and British Columbians deserve to see that we stand resolutely with them during this difficult time. The heroic work of first responders, civic workers, and citizens has helped save lives and protect property, but the rebuilding effort will require significant federal support and a longterm commitment. The return of Parliament allows for British Columbians to see the House of Commons seized with this crisis and working together on the way forward, and this will be particularly important as the damage is assessed and rebuilding begins.

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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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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

THURSDAY, November 25, 2021 • 7

Livestock, families rescued by air from Hwy. 8 Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

wy 8, the route between Merritt and Spences Bridge, was so heavily damaged by the Nicola river during extensive flooding on Nov. 15 it was declared a near complete loss. Complicating matters further were the residents stuck on small islands of remaining highway, several of whom watched their houses swallowed by the raging torrents. Facing a choice to be possibly swept away or to evacuate to high ground, two families had to make the heartbreaking decision to get themselves to safety and leave their animals behind. In the days that followed, the situation became dire as it was soon clear that there was no feasible way to reach or rescue the pets and livestock that remained stranded. When Kelly Kennedy, owner of Sageview Rescue Centre in Kamloops, heard of the situation from livestock RCMP officer, Corey Lepine, she immediately began to explore rescue scenarios. Unfortunately, she too soon realized that there were no conventional options to get in and get the animals out. “There was no way to get the horses off of that stretch of road,” explained Kennedy. “So, I just decided to rent a helicopter and try to do an air evacuation.” Although very experienced with horse rescue from wildfire situations, something Sageview does frequently, Kennedy wasn’t sure what to expect when it came to evacuating livestock by helicopter. “We rescue a lot of livestock from fires at Sageview, and so we’re pretty used to dealing with all of that, but there has never been an air evacuation of a horse in western Canada before, with a helicopter,” said Kennedy. A Director for Horse Council BC

(HCBC), Kennedy reached out to see if they would be able to assist, which they did, readily. A livestock sling was flown up from Vancouver on Thursday, Nov. 18 evening and utilized for the operation on Friday. “Horse Council of BC paid for the helicopter ride, which worked out becuase I’d already rented it,” said Kennedy. “We had gone over every which way we could get those animals out of there and you could not walk them out because they were right at the base of cliffs. I ended up taking two feed bags over, big fertilizer totes, because I was guessing that the two mini horses wouldn’t fit in the big sling, and sure enough they didn’t. So, we sedated the two little minies, and put them in the bag and put them in the helicopters big cargo net, and that’s how we got them out.” When it came time to load the full sized horse, however, the rescue group encountered a problem. No one knew how the sling worked. “We sedated the big horse, but by A mini horse is prepared for an airlift rescue off of a small patch of land on the devastated Highway the time we all figured out how to 8. Sarah Walkem/Submitted put his big sling on he’d woken up,” said Kennedy. going to get her (Tina) because we cue operations, also made a detour “So when we went to land he was had nothing to lift her in,” said to retrieve a stranded family, who wide awake.Nobody even thought of Kennedy. then made it safely to Cache Creek. what to do if the horse was awake, “She wouldn’t fit in the sling, so “It all worked out, we couldn’t because when the boys were putting we ended up just getting her to walk have asked for anything different the harness on him, he was out cold. on top of the cargo net, and we because nobody got hurt and two And then as soon as they lifted him just pulled the cargo net up and the families got all their pets back,” said up, he woke up.” helicopter took off, and it worked Kennedy, who currently has the Sara Walkem, a Spences Bridge perfect.” horses at Sageview. resident who assisted with the resThe goats were transported “It wouldn’t have happened if cue effort, which saw the animals inside of the helicopter alongside Horse Council hadn’t stepped up. offloaded near her home, said that the passengers. We could not have rented a helithe horse, named Winter, “hit the “The outcome if we hadn’t of copter to do this on our own. We ground running”. rescued them, wouldn’t have been got really lucky. And what makes Despite the complications, every- good,” said Kennedy. that work is everybody that donates one was delivered to Spences Bridge “They would have been put to the Horse Council disaster fund, safely, including a kennel full of down so they didn’t have to starve, that’s what gets us through the fire puppies. With the success of this res- that was their only fate. The thing season. Horse Council provides all cue under her belt, Kennedy decidto do would have been to put them of the aid.” ed to attempt another. Returning to down, because there’s no other way The HCBC Animal Disaster the same area of Hwy 8, Kennedy to get them out of there. And if the Relief Fund can be found here: made plans to airlift a pregnant river gave away any more, well they https://hcbc.ca/2021/07/13/ Jersey cow named Tina and three were just on a little piece of road.” donate-to-horse-council-bcs-animalgoats. The helicopter, as part of the res- disaster-relief-fund/ . “We didn’t know how we were

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From the Herald archives: May, 2017 WATER POURS INTO NICOLA LAKE Water continues to pour into Nicola Lake at an unprecedented rate, prompting the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources to issue a warning to prepare for the worst. Water was flowing into Nicola Lake at a rate of 100 cubic metres per second as of May 9. Because the lake is rising about 24cm/day, the ministry has been forced to increase flows out of the Nicola Dam, which will lead to more overbank flooding in Merritt as flows in Nicola River increase accordingly.

LETTERS POLICY The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

Thank You

To emergency staff, first responders and all who have worked so hard during the flooding. Wishing a quick recovery for our town and to all those affected!

8 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

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FRIENDS & Neighbours

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Evacuees left wondering Coldwater ceremony about coverage The Coldwater Indian Band, joined by Mayor Linda Brown and PIO Greg Lowis, held a ceremony on Nov. 21 as part of the process of temporarily returning the Coldwater River to its old course.

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From Page 5 Francis’ wife is also involved with the Florentine Seniors Residence and registered evacuees that had been transported to Kamloops. “They were all registered by my wife on Wednesday, and we have not received a call for them, either,” said Francis on Friday. “Although they’re in a safe home with a bed and being fed, all of their toiletries and that kind of thing that are covered by ESS, they left with all of their belongings.” Francis and his wife have been purchasing any necessary items for the residents themselves, in the absence of vouchers. “I’m not in any way saying anything disparaging about the ESS workers, they were sorely understaffed... they were telling us they didn’t have computers,” said Francis. “And, in fact, one of the ladies from our office went in today just to see what was going on, and one of the ESS workers that she was speaking to was crying. One of the ESS volunteers told my coworker that they weren’t provided with the computers that they need, they don’t have the staff that they need, and he said to her, I know that there’s a better way to deal with this, but I have to follow the direction I’m provided.” Joe Nemeth, Loans Officer for Community Futures Nicola Valley in Merritt, echoed those same sentiments, praising the volunteers of Kamloops ESS for doing their best to assist, but also wondering why there has been a communication breakdown and an inability for Merrittonians to receive the support they need. Nemeth was one of those evacuated early in the morning on Nov. 15 from his home in Merritt’s floodplain. Nemeth escaped with only his cat and the clothes on his back, losing even his car to the rising flood waters. Originally he registered with Merritt ESS and then, upon evacuating to Kamloops, re-registered there. He did receive a follow up call, but no vouchers. “In the call they said verbatim ‘Whatever you need, keep your receipts, we’ll reimburse as much as we can’, because they knew that all I got out was my cat they told me getting clothes, cat supplies, shoes to replace the wrecked ones, all of that I could go ahead with,” explained Nemeth. “I got everything together across Tuesday and Wednesday and at that point I’d run out of money and pet friendly accommodations in Kamloops, so I arranged a way to a friend’s in Vernon for Thursday.” It was in Vernon that Nemeth was told that he would not be reimbursed for anything up to that point. While Deputy Premier Farnworth has now announced that accommodation costs will be retroactively reimbursed, some are still wondering just how much they will be covered for, and what will be out of pocket. And, as Nemeth had moved on from Kamloops, he still faced problems with the ESS-issued vouchers. “The trouble is the vouchers are city specific, so me being in Vernon meant I’d have to drive back to Kamloops, use the vouchers there and return to Vernon, which wasn’t gonna happen because I’d already lost my car to the flood and busses won’t allow pets,” explained Nemeth. “I told them (Kamloops ESS) I’d left Kamloops and they said they’d call back in a few minutes but never did. Later that night though, a Vernon fire marshal phoned and told me he was running Vernon ESS from his house and somehow learned about me. Within ten minutes we had gone through the process and I had vouchers waiting for me.” Nemeth and Francis acknowledge the exceptionally hard work done by ESS volunteers under trying circumstances, with the City of Kamloops estimating that they saw up to 3,000 evacuees from Merritt pour into their community. “I’ve done emergency response before, I’m not angry, I understand... no blame toward Kamloops ESS from me personally,” said Nemeth. “The other ESS Centres, it seems like the workers there physically have the vouchers to give people, we’re not sure why Kamloops went the different route of saying you have to wait for a follow up phone call...” questioned Francis. “We’re just wondering why the system was so different. Kamloops experienced the same thing with our evacuation with the fires, so I’m not sure why this was such a surprise to them as far as procedure goes.” The Emergency Program Coordinator for the City of Kamloops Emergency Support Services did not respond to a request for comment by press time.

THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 9

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Well maintained corner unit in Sun Valley Court with large fenced yard. Features open concept kitchen, living & dining room. Appliances included. 3 bedrms up with main bathrm and 3 pce ensuite and a flex space can be used as workout room, office or children’s play area.

#3297

$379,900

390 COYLE PLACE

Nicely maintained 3 bedrm 2 bath rancher on a corner lot with fenced backyard. Half basement with bedrm & rec.room. Small shop/garage to park toys or work on projects. Central location. Currently tenanted.

New 3 bedroom rancher with full walkout bsmt, under construction. 1460 sq.ft. on each floor. Open plan, 9 ft ceilings, vinyl plank flooring & carpet, gas F/P in great rm, laundry on the main. GST applies. $4,000 appliance package & central A/C.

#3300

#3287

$390,000

2940 MCLEAN PLACE

NEW

$739,900

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. C-1 zoning with possible change to C2. Call for more details.

#3264

$1,650,000

#4, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

#5, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

Build your dream home or rec. home in this proposed strata development at Nicola Lake. Great views & access to the water. All services to the property line. GST is applicable. Developers Disclosure available.

#3298

#3299

SOL

New 3 bedrm 3 bath home with open design, 9 ft ceilings, large kitchen island and Quartz countertops. HW on demand system. Master bedrm has window seat & 5 pce ensuite. Large 7 ft crawl space for storage. New Home Warranty.

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.

#3303

#3208

$709,900 +GST

$450,000

1798 GRANITE AVENUE

Great family home with 4 bedroom on the top main floor and 2 bedrooms in the ground level suite which is currently rented. Yard has underground sprinklers and garden space in back. Great views from sundeck. 2 car garage. 10x14 shed.

#3283

$589,900

1590 CHESTNUT AVE

Great investment property! 3 bedroom 2 bath property currently rented to good long term tenants. Has had some new flooring, paint & kitchen cabinets over past few years. Two car carport, fenced yard with workshop in ba

Cozy 3 bedrooom rancher close to shopping & schools. Private covered deck off master bedrm. Huge fenced backyard. Includes appliances & window coverings. 12x32 detached garage/shop.

Cute & cozy 2 bedroom bungalow with spacious oak kitchen with formal dining rm leading into office & living room. Sitting room has gas F/P. Fenced corner lot, lots of parking with carport & detached garage/shop.

New 3 bedrm rancher with 9 ft ceilings, open design, large kitchen island & Quartz countertops. Master bedrm has vaulted ceilings, 5 pce ensuite & window seat. Large covered deck in back yard. Double garage.

#3293

#3285

#3286

#3302

$399,000

$429,900

$255,000

2770 PEREGRINE$999,000 WAY #3282

NEW

$239,000

2845 NEILSON ST

1608 FIR AVENUE

SOL

1630 CHESTNUT AVE

1976 HOUSTON STREET

1252 HOUSTON STREET

Karen Yakimchuk 250-315-3076

Personal Real Estate Corporation

$699,900 +GST

Century 21 has been servicing Merritt and the Nicola Valley for over 25 years. Our realtors know the area and the ever changing current market conditions. Let our team of Professionals help guide you through the process or Selling or Buying your home.

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

#3294

$749,900 + GST

NEW

FULL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OR TENANT ONLY PLACEMENT We can assist you in renting your investment

Spectacular Nicola Lake view home on 1.05 acres with 2 car detached garage & RV parking. Home features huge living room with large windows, 4 bedrms, 3 baths, gourmet kitchen with large island. The walkout bsmt has large games room & 2 bedrms plus lots of storage. Enjoy the sprawling covered deck with fantastic views.

DEANNA Licensed Property Manager

RICK Licensed Property Manager

250-315-0000

#3301

www.merrittpropertymanagement.ca

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10 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Evacuated households eligible to receive $2,000 through Red Cross program

AGM December 7, 2021 at 7 PM Merritt Civic Centre

Financial help is coming from the Red Cross for those in BC who have had to evacuate their homes due to flooding. The organization announced on the afternoon of Nov. 23 that eligible residents will be able to receive $2,000 through a joint effort with the provincial government, if their primary residences have been placed on evacuation orders due to the flooding and extreme weather event that occurred Nov.

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD. COM

All attendees must show proof of Covid Vaccination and wear masks

Merritt & District Hospice society www.merritthospice.org

Living with grief & Loss group Provides support and safe space.

Have you ever lost a loved one? Do you feel alone? Need someone to talk to?

Starts Tuesday, November 23 at 1:00PM to 3:00pm (every first and third Tuesday: Dec 7, 21) Weekly – Drop-in (No registration required) Location: Hospice Office, #12-2025 Granite Ave Call Hospice at 250.280.1701 for more information.

14-16, 2021. “British Columbians have faced each new challenge over the last few years with compassion and generosity, whether it’s the flooding we’re facing now, to COVID-19 and wildfires,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “The Canadian Red Cross is a trusted partner and together we will be able to get supports out to affected people and communities as quickly as possible.”

In order, to register for these supports, British Columbians are asked to call the Red Cross at 1-800-863-6582 between 8a.m. and 8p.m. “The Canadian Red Cross is grateful for the trust and support of the Province of British Columbia and is committed to ensuring this much-needed assistance reaches people who were evacuated from their primary homes,” said Pat Quealey, vicepresident, British Columbia and

Yukon, Canadian Red Cross. “Our humanitarian workforce has been activated to support response efforts in some of the hardest hit communities, and the Red Cross will be there to assist people impacted by these floods, now and in the weeks and months to come.” Registering for financial assistance through the Red Cross will not affect one’s eligibility for the province’s Emergency Support Services (ESS) programs.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

POLICE FILES Missing Merritt man located safe in Kamloops

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM A man that was last seen wading into fast-flowing water near Merritt Secondary School has been located. On November 19, 2021 the

Merritt RCMP detachment released a photo of the man from Nov. 15, the day of the Evacuation Order in the City of Merritt, ask-

ing for the public to help them in identifying who he was, and if he was safe. Merritt RCMP Constable Jon Puterbough confirmed that the man was found safe in Kamloops

and is waiting for the Evacuation Order to come to an end in the City of Merritt. Cst. Puterbough thanked the public for their help in locating the man. “We want to

Pets rescued from flood zone by Merritt RCMP officer Morgan Hampton REPORTER@ MERRITTHERALD. COM

Many residents of Merritt that faced a sudden evacuation on Nov. 15 due to the rising waters of the Coldwater river were unfortunately forced to leave their pets behind as they fled to the nearby cities of Kamloops and Kelowna. When it became clear that they would not be able to return to their homes anytime soon, or that their homes faced the threat of being flooded or washed away, people became frantic to rescue the pets that had been left behind. Enter Merritt’s very own pet hero, Cst. David Feller. “Cst. David Feller of the

THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 11

Cst. David Feller Merritt RCMP has been working double-duty to reunite pets with families displaced by floods,” reads a statement from the Merritt RCMP Media Relations Officer, Sgt. Josh Roda. “In between patrols and answering calls for service, Cst. Feller has been Merritt’s very own Pet Detective, saving pets from homes in evacuated areas... Cst. Feller

has

been busy rescuing birds, cats, lizards and hamsters from town as some home owners were unable pack their animals in the rush of evacuations.” Local Facebook group, the Merritt Grapevine, was inundated with pleas for help with pet owners asking anyone who had stayed behind to attempt to rescue or even just to feed and water

their animal family members. “Cst. Feller reached out to residents through his own social media account and provided his personal contact information for anyone whose animals needed help,” said Roda. “Merritt detachment has received generous donations of animal food and supplies from local businesses to allow Cst. Feller to keep saving more pets. Dave has been an amazing support to the community as we work through the floods. We are lucky to have him as a part of our close-knit team.” Anyone requiring help for their animals or for questions about the evacuation order are encouraged to call Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.

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12 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Emotional collapse of Hwy. 8 bridges

A temporary bridge was constructed across Spius Creek shortly after the bridge’s collapse on Nov. 15, providing access for hydro crews to reconnect power to the community. BC Hydro photo

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

pprox. 20 km west of Merritt on Hwy 8 are the communities of Spius Creek, Petit Creek and Nooaitch. To reach these communities, and the properties beyond, residents rely on two main bridges which cross Spius Creek and the Nicola River. Overnight on Nov. 14, the water in both began to rise rapidly. Residents in the area lost power, but were not yet alarmed as the belief was that the Nicola Valley was facing a late autumn storm, not unlike many it had faced in the past. However, on the morning of Nov. 15, residents awoke to find that the Spius Creek bridge had been washed out by unprecedented water flows. Heather Fairley, who lives in Petit Creek with her husband Dwight, realized that with the intense flooding that was beginning to occur in Merritt, they may face difficulties downstream. “I went to town and came back home at around 9:40AM and started to prepare for flood and power outage,” said Fairley. At that point, despite the Spius Creek bridge being washed out, residents were still able to get to and from Hwy 8 and Merritt or Lower Nicola via the main bridge over the Nicola River, or, in an emergency, the Petit Creek railway bridge. At this point, the communities had not been placed on Evacuation Alert or Order. It was only shortly after 11:00AM that an Evacuation Alert was issued by the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD). At roughly 12:15 PM, the Petit Creek railway bridge, a fixture of the area for more than a century

that overlooks a popular picnic beach and swimming hole was washed out, and less than an hour later Nooaitch Reserve placed their residents on Evacuation. According to Fairley, the main Petit Creek bridge, the last remaining route in and out of the community, was washed out at approximately 1:20 PM as residents were using it to evacuate. “The river breached the railroad bed and flooded fields and Petit Creek Rd., trapping people on the road and in their cars, (people) made a human chain to get out and a local drove their tractor out to rescue the few that couldn’t make it.” Shortly after 6:00 PM the entire area was without power and sometime during the night, a portion of the Petit Creek bridge was washed away entirely. “The last bridge collapsing was quite emotional,” said Fairley, whose husband was stuck on the opposite side. “Nooaitch got an Evac. Order, but we never did. We weren’t oblivious to the problem, but kind of held out hope that we’d be fine, or else TNRD would have made us leave, you know? But honestly for us, that wasn’t the worrisome part. We were more concerned about having no hydro. We have woodstoves, but not everyone out here does, and it got quite cold that week.” Temperatures dropped as low as twelve degrees below zero, a sudden cold snap residents hadn’t expected in the wake of an unseasonable rainfall. “Neighbours were sharing generators so we could keep fridges going, and a few people shared propane with others so they could cook. One neighbour up the hill had access to a creek and pumped water and deliv-

ered it to neighbours for their livestock. One farm up here has 30 horses. We shared eggs. We all put food on decks and whatnot to try to save it. It was incredible how we all pulled together, but if hydro hadn’t been reconnected when it was, and if the bridge hadn’t been repaired, we would have been in trouble.” Residents were originally informed that BC Hydro would not restore power as long as Merritt’s Evacuation Order remained in place. “That was ludicrous, really, it made no sense,” said Fairley. Fortunately, work began on a temporary bridge across Spius Creek almost immediately, which would provide a route in and out of the community, which would include access for BC Hydro crews. By Nov. 17, the two sides of the river had been reconnected. “A temporary causeway was constructed that joined the existing bridge over the washed out section of road, which currently allows emergency access to the area,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. “The bridge was again closed Thursday morning to allow works to continue. While this work is being done to provide emergency access to isolated homes, this will only be a temporary solution. Further engineering assessments and repair works are required once water levels recede, allowing safe access. It is anticipated that a new bridge will be required to provide long term access.We are working with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to provide several other alternative access routes.” Power was restored to the area on Nov. 19 and repair work is ongoing.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Wastewater plant operational Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM As Merrittonians in Phase 1 of the Return Home Plan make their way back to their homes, the City of Merritt has announced that the wastewater treatment plant is once again fully operational. “Fully treated effluent is being discharged into the river, as the City’s rapid infiltration basins are still being repaired,” reads a statement from the City. “Water quality tests have been

completed and the quality and quantity of treated water flowing into the river has been approved by Environment BC. It might seem counterintuitive, but it is beneficial for residents to continue using their toilets. Biosolids contain bacteria that feed the ecosystem of our wastewater treatment plant and keeps the germ-fighting bacteria alive.” Water supply within the city remains restricted and returning residents are asked to limit their water use to essential uses, reduc-

Photo submitted

A fundraiser has been launched to help the mother of the six-year-old girl who was killed in a two-vehicle crash south of Logan Lake on Nov. 18. Ember Young died in the head-on collision on Highway 97C near Foley Road that occurred in snowy conditions at about 12:15 p.m. Ember’s baby sister Hailey, according to the fundraising page, has just recently taken her first steps out of a wheelchair following the accident. The family had been evacuated from Merritt due to flooding in the Nicola Valley

community. Macy Jarry has organized the campaign to raise money to help cover costs of Ember’s funeral. The fundraiser is online at gofundme.com under “Ember Young’s funeral expenses.” “I am setting this up on Jordan’s behalf as she is in no condition to do it herself,” Jarry said in the Gofundme post. “If anyone can help make the financial impact of this situation even a little bit easier on the family, it’s the least we can do in such a devastating time. Thank you for any donation whatsoever.” As of the evening of Nov. 24, the page had reached over

Temporary diversion of Coldwater river progressing

ing consumption and strain on the water system. Uses like showers, baths, dishwashing and clothes washing are requested to be kept to a minimum for the time being. “The City will provide updates as we work to repair the damage to our water system and rapid infiltration basins, and will continue consulting with Interior Health and BC Environment and communicating with downstream communities to ensure we are following safe procedures,” concludes the statement from the City.

Fundraiser launched for mom whose child died in crash near Logan Lake

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD. COM

THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 13

$44,000 in donations. Cpl. Mike Halskov of the BC Highway Patrol said the crash involved a passenger vehicle and a large utility vehicle. The RCMP, BC Coroners’ Service and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement branch are investigating. Halskov said the cause of the collision remains under investigation, adding there is no evidence to suggest any criminality as a contributing factor. Anyone with information about this collision, including any dash-cam video, is asked to call police at 250-378-4262 and quote file 2021-5574.

An image from the City of Merritt shows the old channel of the Coldwater River, flowing by the dog park, to the right of the new channel carved after the flooding.

Morgan Hampton REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM When the ture in that area, Coldwater river there’s Fortis gas breached its banks infrastructure, in a massive flood there’s the infraevent on Nov. structure of the 15, the force of roads. So, at the the water was so moment, if we put powerful it carved it back into the a new channel course it was in through a residenbefore the flood tial neighbourhood we now have of Merritt. the opportunity Pine St. was the to inspect those most affected by services to see if the river’s changed they need to be course, but City repaired, rerouted, infrastructure was etc. Again, it’s all also damaged and related to the safety the functionality of the municipality of the wastewater and the residents treatment plant is that live here.” particularly threatAt this time, the ened. reroute of the river “The river’s back to its original new course down course is planned the northern to be temporary. most reach of “We don’t Pine St., we obvihave a plan at this ously had a lot of point,” said Lowis. infrastructure in “Obviously, place and it wasn’t once a river has just the City that decided it wants to had infrastructure change its banks there,” explained then preventing Emergency that from takOperations Centre ing place can be (EOC) Information extremely challengOfficer, Greg ing... I’m sure we’ll Lowis. need to consider “Not only was what will need the course of the to be done long river much closer term on the actual to the wastewater course of the river filtration ponds, at that point.” there was also Repairing infrahydro infrastrucstructure is key

to re-establishing day to day operations within the city and rescinding the standing Evacuation Order. Crews have been working to that end almost non-stop since the flooding began, and the temporary re-route of the Coldwater river is progressing quickly. “They were initially looking at using a tiger dam to divert water from the river itself and using that to inflate basically a big balloon that would then become solid, like a wall, but I understand from engineering that the length that was required was too long for that, so I think they ended up constructing a temporary dyke,” said Lowis. “My understanding is that the engineering teams have been working incredibly hard on the temporary diversion program, the bulk of the water flow is now apparently running back in the course that it was in before the flood event took place.”

14 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

SPORTS

www.merrittherald.com

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

Jr. boys volleyball rallies during tough times The MSS junior boys converged together in Revelstoke from different parts of the province to bring pride to their flood-ravaged hometown. Howard Tsumura VARSITYLETTERS.CA

ian Cavaliere is not only Merritt bornand-raised, he’s also never had reason to leave his

south central interior digs. Yet this past week, like just about every member of its citizenry, the Merritt Secondary School vice-principal and proud Panthers athletic director had to vacate his home in the Nicola Valley city, taking up temporary residency in a Kamloops hotel after the entire town was evacuated Monday following the massive and destructive flooding which hit the area. Yet the mere fact that your author and he are talking via cel phone Saturday morning about the great things The members of the Merritt Panthers junior boys volleyball team pose with head coach Vince Kanigan after beating the odds and finishing third at the still managing to happen in the world of B.C. high school Okanagan championships this past weekend in Revelstoke. Front row (left to right) Gavin Mouland, Will Hubbard. Back row (left to right) Andrew Denton, Carson Mouland, Wade Kanigan, Alex Howard, Nathan Racher, Owen Sigurdsson. MSS photo sports is continued testament to its power to overcome, unite and in the end, just keep inspiring all of us who are proud to be counted among its census. cards expressing how sorry they felt that we couldn’t make dispersed. “We’ve have our work Zooms every morning and it’s it here because of everything that’s happened. “So we called all the parents and said we were still in all tears with so many people losing their homes, and some if they could all drive, and then the parents all bought “And that’s what we’ve seen… so much support from many being displaced,” begins Cavaliere, struggling at the other schools, their athletes and from other athletic in,” Cavaliere continued, fighting back his tears as the times to tap his emotion. directors.” all-points-bulletin brought Panthers players back from all “We are fortunate that our homes are safe,” he said As we had begun our chat, Cavaliere, a 1998 Merritt parts of the Interior and Thompson-Okanagan, as well of his family and those of many of the staff members grad, had just learned of the junior boys’ team’s win over as one family already on their way to Calgary. “They all with whom he works. “But there are others who have lost Pen Hi on Saturday from fellow Merritt vice-principal turned around and came.” everything.” Adriane Mouland, herself a 1995 MSS grad. On Friday, tiny Merritt opened with pool play, and on And it’s within that maelstrom that both outreach and “She is also the parent of a player on the team and she Saturday, claimed a quarterfinals win over the much-larger co-operation have merged to give at least one team from texted me a point-by-point breakdown because it went Penticton Lakers, fell to the Kelowna Owls 2-0 (25-13, that devastated region of our province the kind of finality down to a third (and final) set,” recounts Cavaliere. “And 25-12) in the semifinals, but then turned right around and that every season of play so very much deserves, even if it she was texting all in capitals ‘THIS IS TOO MUCH beat Kelowna’s Okanagan Mission Huskies 2-0 (25-14, isn’t a provincial championship. EMOTION’ and ‘I CAN’T STAY CALM’. Its was 26-24) to place third overall. On Saturday, the Merritt Panthers’ junior boys volleyhumorous but at the same time so emotional. “The Kelowna coach was so impressed by our Merritt ball team, too many times nothing more than a mere after- team,” said Cavaliere of what is the feeder to an Owls’ And perhaps the one aspect too often ignored by the thought amongst the gigantic schools it competes against adults? team looking like a wire-to-wire No. 1-ranked team at the at the all-tier JV level, somehow found the right kind of “The boys were having fun,” he said. “And that is the top-tier senior varsity Triple-A level. “He told us he has perfect storm… one which allowed them, against huge most important part.” hundreds and hundreds of Grade 10s to pick from. We odds, the opportunity to compete in the Okanagan junior There is so much tough sledding ahead for all of the have three Grade 10s, three Grade 9s and two Grade 8s boys championship tournament in nearby Revelstoke. families affected by the devastation of the past week, and on our team.” The inability to find a way to get to the Lower while human emotion during just such times insures that And that’s why although the real Super Bowl isn’t until Mainland had earlier scuttled the Merritt swim team’s par- Feb. 13, you would have had a hard time convincing a in any competitive arena, like B.C. high school sports, ticipation at this weekend’s B.C. aquatic championships. small group of student-athletes, families and coaches from there will always be some divisiveness. And given the rapid nature in which families were Thankfully, there is also the view as seen through the Merritt that it didn’t take place this past Saturday in the forced to evacuate their homes Monday, the members eyes of the Merritt Panthers. gym at Revelstoke Secondary. of the Panthers’ senior girls volleyball team ticketed for Junior boys volleyball teams don’t usually make the “The community is really backing them… I wish I the Okanagan AA championships this past weekend at could drive there to cheer them on,” said Cavaliere, “but I headlines, but in the midst of stormy times, they found the NorKam Secondary, had already dispersed to locations right kind of perfect storm, and within it taught us all leshad to stay back and watch my own family.” throughout both B.C. and Alberta by the time the event sons about why nothing can keep us together through the Cavaliere, in fact, was on the line from just outside of tipped off. tough times better than the spirit of high school sports. NorKam Secondary where he and his family were watch“But our junior boys had qualified for the Okanagans ing the Okanagan girls AA championships his school’s in Revelstoke, and that was a doable trip,” said Cavaliere. Howard Tsumura is the publisher of varsityletters.ca, B.C.’s only team was supposed to be a part of but could not get back “The coach (Vince Kanigan) really wanted to send the website dedicated solely to telling the stories of the student-athletes and together to take part in following the evacuation. boys, so we got our blessing from the district,” he contincoaches who make our high school and university sports community “One of the teams playing is Summerland Secondary, ued. and I am supporting them personally, because that school’s amongst the most vibrant of its kind in North America. The only issue was that the entire team had already senior girls team just sent our girls team gift cards, and

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 15

SPORTS

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

Jr. girls volleyball earn silver at home tournament Earlier this month, the MSS Jr. girls volley-

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

ball squad managed a

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

second-place finish at their “Ghost Blockers”

tournament, falling in 1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000 three sets to Salmon PLEASE Arm in the final.

RECYCLE

Charles Bloom bested

THIS

Osoyoos in straight

NEWSPAPER

sets to take third place.

Crossroads Community Church

Cents d-man named to All-Star roster Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Eighteen players have been voted into the upcoming BCHL outdoor All-Star game in January, and one amongst them is a Centennials defenseman. Second-year Cent Tristan Allen will be lacing them up for the three-on-three tournament, the first of its kind for the junior A league to take place in Penticton on Jan. 15. The 18-year old from Kamloops managed three assists in his first junior league season

2055 Quilchena Ave

in 2020-21, after toiling with the Thompson Blazers minor league system in his upbringing. So far this year, Allen has managed to pot his first BCHL

info@ukspicecuisine.com

goal and add three assists, in just 13 games played. One skater was selected from each team for the All-Star Game, voted on by the 18 head coaches from around the league. The remaining six skater spots, as well as the four goalies, comes down to a fan vote that is available at bchl.ca/fanvote. As for the Centennials themselves, a pair of home games this weekend versus Nanaimo and Powell River were expectedly postponed. Rather, the Cents will travel to take on the Vees this Friday in search of their first win of the season.

250-293-0416

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911• Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

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

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

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

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

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

Trinity United Church

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

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

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

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

16 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

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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 Announcements

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

Obituaries

Kim Robinson (Cougar Man)

Feb. 3, 1957 – Nov. 11, 2021

After a long battle with cancer, it is with great sadness we wish to announce the passing of Kim Robinson.

Obituaries

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Celebrating each life like no other

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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

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 MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

June 8, 1930 ~ November 12, 2021

To everything there is a season, a time to every purpose under heaven a time to be born and a time to die ... a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-24

P: 250-280-1701

Survived by son Cam McKillican (Sue), daughters Vicki Sutherland, Laura Woiken, 3 grandsons, 6 greatgrandchildren. Sisters Edna Ashcroft, Electa (Goldwyn) Oppertshauser, predeceased by son Dan McKillican 1999, brother Norman McKillican 1946. Slim drove truck for more than 50 yrs. in and around BC. He resided in Dog Valley near Hope for many yrs. before moving to Spences Bridge. Private Graveside Services will be held at the Cache Creek Cemetery with a Celebration of Life to follow in the spring of 2022. Online condolences may be made at www.tvfh.ca

Employment

Merritt Funeral Chapel

250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379

MCKILLICAN, DANIEL VICTOR “SLIM”

Employment

We will forever remember your big smile, your love for your family, friends and community. Kim was the most generous person who always had the time of day for everyone from all walks of life. One of the last true mountain men. We will miss you. Graveside service will be held at the Merritt Pineridge Cemetery at 1:00 pm on Friday, November 26th, 2021. A potluck to follow at the Robinson family home.

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

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

Never Quit

Employment

Local steady work

CARPENTERS

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

1ST & 2ND YEAR MECHANICS Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161

merrittherald.com • merrittherald.com Employment

Employment

When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill When funds are low and debts are high And you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing down a bit, Rest if you must, but don’t you quit. Success is failure turned inside out –

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THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 17

www.merrittherald.com Employment

Employment

Coldwater Indian Band Job Posting

Responsibilities and Duties Planning – Annual and Long-term Education Plan for Coldwater Indian Band, membership and as directed. Human Resource – Supervises and valuates the performance of anyone with direct reporting relations to the Department when applicable. Financial – Develops Education Program budgets in consultation with the Band Administrator and administers the budgets as approved by Chief and Council and all other associated duties. Policy – Administers the approved Post-Secondary Education Policy. Liaison and Representation – Participates as Ex-Officio when required on the Band School SAC; Represents the band in negotiating the Local Education Agreement; Attends School District 58 meetings where applicable; Liaises with Post-Secondary Institutions/Schools in support of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Policy and programs; Liaises with SD #58 re: L.E.A., F.N.A.C, and staff where applicable; Advocates for Coldwater students within School District 58 & students attending different PostSecondary Educational Institutions; Liaise with Indian Services Canada in support of the Coldwater Indian Band Education Department programs. Post-Secondary Program Administration – Administers the Post-Secondary program as per Job Description. General Education Administration – Administers all pertinent Education Program funding through Xyntax; Develop and maintain individual student confidential files; Maintains records of all Education programs, services and funding associated with this department; Keeps the Band Administrator informed of sensitive and important issues and events in relation to the operation of the Education Programs; etc. Position Qualifications: • Post-Secondary Diploma (prefer minimum Business or Public Administration diploma) • OR an equivalent combination of post secondary education and directly related work experience. • Proposal writing an asset • Lifestyle consistent with the importance of the responsibilities of the position • Strong analytical and decision-making skills, tact, discretion and sound judgement • Demonstrated commitment to fiscal management • Superior communication skills, written and oral • Working knowledge of Xyntax an asset • Knowledge of Nlaka’pamux and Coldwater Community an asset • Ability to organize and manage workload • Good negotiation skills (Local Education Agreements) • Able to work independently and in a team environment • Satisfactory Criminal Records check • Valid Driver’s License and Reliable vehicle Send your resume with references and cover letter: Attn: COLDWATER INDIAN BAND H.R. COMMITTEE c/o Band Administrator (lantoine@coldwaterband.org.) or fax 250-378-5351 PO BOX 4600, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 Deadline for resumes extended to: November 26, 2021 @ 4:00 p.m. Only successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.

Please recycle this newspaper.

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

Employment

Catch your next job in our employment section.

Upper Nicola Band

EDUCATION COORDINATOR The Coldwater Indian Band is seeking an individual to fill the Education Coordinator position. The Education Coordinator is responsible for the planning, administration and coordination of Coldwater Indian Band Education Programs and Services and reports to the Band Administrator. This position will be working from the Merritt Office.

Employment

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

Legal / Public Notices

Reliable Towing Merritt Ltd.

2900 Pooley Ave the following vehicle will be auctioned on December 9, 2021 for non payment 1997 BMW 318is VIN# WBABE8329VEY31946 Debtor: Gregory Olweny Amount Owing: 4,892.21 2001 Nissan Pathnder VIN# JN8DR07Y11W517068 Debtor: Cassidy Anderson Amount Owing: 4,652.75 1998 Toyota Corolla VIN# 2T1BR12EXWC715251 Debtor: Todd Parnell Amount Owing: 3,702.44 Bring Home the Bacon!

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18 • THURSDAY, November 25, 2021

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Y o u r Local Business Directory FLOWER SHOP • Bouquets • Arrangements • Plants • Local Made Giftware

CLEANING SERVICES

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TREE SERVICE JIM POTTER

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NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME

GENERAL DENTISTS & SPECIALIST ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE Call

250-378-4888 to book your appointment. 2731 Forksdale Avenue, V1K 1R9

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ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING

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HOURS

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

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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.

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.carriewa Carrie Ware, BSc, CPA, CA • www itt, BC V1K 1B8

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THURSDAY, November 25 ,2021 19

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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 2299 CHARTERS STREET

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

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

MLS#162602

MLS#163632

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

4207 FALCON CREST DRIVE

SOL

Managing Broker

$124,900 2025 GRANITE AVENUE

GET READY TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME. This lot in the Grandview Heights subdivision offers spectacular views of Iron Mountain and Nicola Valley

MLS# 163405

$8.00/SQFT TRIPLE NET

EXCITING COMMERCIAL LEASE CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN CORE AND NEXT DOOR TO MERRITT’S BUSY POST OFFICE. Spaces available from 230 sq ft to 3,450 sq ft. Previous use was a medical clinic. new C-6 zoning is flexible & allows for commercial retail, office, food primary and/or apartment dwellings.

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

$439,900 537 WILD ROSE DRIVE

2882 CRANNA CRESCENT

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

SOL

$299,900

JUST 15 MINUTES FROM TOWN THIS 4.6 ACRE PARCEL IS THE PERFECT AREA FOR THE OUTDOORSMAN! Tons of lakes nearby for the fisherman and easy access to the outdoors. There is a shallow well in place and great building spots to capture the view. MLS#164394

MLS#164669

MLS# 161182

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

$145,000 18 BRECCIA DRIVE

112-308 CHARTRAND AVENUE

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

$469,900

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

MLS#164663 Owner/Broker

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

7 GARNET AVENUE

$529,900 308-400 OPAL DRIVE THIS BEAUTIFUL 5 BED FAMILY HOME HAS IT ALL AND IS SITUATED ON A 1/2 ACRE LOT. This home has been completely upgraded and is move in ready. New windows, plumbing, bathroom, new deck, all new appliances, new furnace and central air, gas fireplace, a new gas stove, outside BBQ directly connected to gas supply. MLS#164573

$125,900

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

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

SL3-6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

$250,000 2543 JACKSON AVENUE

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

D L O S

$449,900

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

MLS#164810

MLS#162939

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

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