October 17, 2019

MERRITT MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER /PAGE 8 merrittherald.com

MOTORCYCLE DRAG RACING HEATS UP /PAGE 13

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

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MERRITT HERALD THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2019 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS

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MURRAY CHURCH

SPIRITUAL

COURT APPEARANCE August Caprian, the man charged with three counts of arson in connection with a trio of church fires in January, will stand trial in the summer of 2020.

STORY /PAGE 8

Nicola-Canford’s outdoor calming space is the first of its kind in the British Columbia public school system.

/PAGE 3

ELECTION COVERAGE What steps does each candidate feel needs to be taken to address federal corporate welfare in our country?

/PAGE 10 SMALL BUSINESS Small Business Week recognizes the importance of small-tomedium-sized businesses in our community.

/PAGE 16 REDUCED

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2 • THURSDAY,

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October 17, 2019

250.378.6941 #112-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 71-2776 Clapperton Avenue

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MLS#152982 $229,000 Open and bright 3 Br 1 BA home, perfect for a first time buyer or as an investment property. Fenced backyard includes storage shed, updates include newer roof and some flooring.

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MLS#153564 $119,000 Great layout in this comfortable 2 BR 2 BA 2010 home.

Open concept Kitchen, dining and living room. Master with ensuite. Private patio. Lower pad fees in this lovely well maintained mobile home park.

MLS# 151387 $139.500 Build your dream home on this 1+ acre lot overlooking beautiful Nicola Lake. This development is becoming one of the premiere locations due to the proximity of larger centers like Vancouver and Kelowna.

MLS#152575 $149,900 Move-in ready 3, possible 4-bedroom home with fresh paint and some new flooring. The kitchen features a gas stove, fridge, new backsplash and new light fixtures.

HELP SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS and join us for a Meat Draw at the

Grand Pub & Grill on October 19th from 3-5 pm.

MLS#152585 $199,900 Full duplex with small 484 sq ft home in the back of the duplex. Three incomes and/or two incomes and move in to the renovated and updated side A of the duplex. New roof July 2019 on the duplex.

2588 Quilchena Avenue

MLS#153523 $275,000 Very nice, move-in ready 4 BR, 2 BA family home with lots of renovations, close to downtown Merritt. Large open kitchen, newer appliances and eating bar to enjoy, lane access to your parking and RV storage.

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All proceeds will go towards lunch programs and winter mitts and touques for students.

Let’s keep kids warm and tummies full this winter!

MLS#153353 $389,900 Spacious new construction 3 BR 4 BA townhome with a beautiful blend of contemporary and modern finishes.

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MLS#153626 $389,900 3 BR, 2 BA, two-storey family house on quiet cul de sac in a lovely neighbourhood. Many recent renovations including brand new roof in Oct 2017, plus built-in vac, central air, and one-car garage.

MLS#151953 $419,000 Spectacular waterfront lot on Nicola Lake with over 1 acre of fantastic lakeside living at its best! Purchase one of the last lakefront lots located in Phase 1 of the Nicola Lakeshore Estates development.

MLS#151851 $439,000 2 BR 2 BA rancher with a well designed bright open floor plan Kitchen/Family area. Full partially finished basement, 2017 roof, covered deck, attached 1 car garage and 26 X 36 shop with 220 power.

MLS#153557 $445,900 Beautiful 4 BR, 3 BA family home, fully updated, in excellent location! Master bedroom on the main with a lovely fully updated bathroom and walk-in closet, large one-car garage, and many updates. Must see!

MLS#152515 $479,000 2318 sq ft two-level new home with a full 2-5-10 year new home warranty, nestled in a very nice subdivision.

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MLS#153550 $495,000 3 BR, 2.5 bath open concept luxury home with 10’ ceilings, contemporary design. Full 2-5-10 home warranty, double garage, and countless high-end features like quartz countertops

MLS#153710 $549,000 Traditional 3 bdrm 2 bath rancher style home on .43 acres of parklike fully fenced property. Features include two separate living rooms, formal dining room, crown moulding throughout, and much more.

MLS#153370 $569,000 Beautiful 4 BR 3 BA custom-built home on large lot (.31 acre) with a 3-bay garage (wired) and lots of room for all your toys and RV. Solid hardwood floors, large windows, central vac, central a/c, and more!

MLS#153343 $649,000 Panoramic views from this 3 BR, 3 BA home on 10 scenic acres near Merritt. Electric furnace & wood stove heat, new metal roof 2013, fenced pasture area & shelter for horses, 32’ x 32’ x 16h detached shop.

MLS#151321 $728,800 Excellent investment on recently upgraded commercial mix building! 3 residential suites up and 3 commercial suites on the ground floor. Corner lot with highway access and excellent exposure.

SOLD

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

INSIDE

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

Opinion ---------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------- 13 Classifieds ------------------- 25

HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES

Emotional, social and spiritual growth

Online

this week merrittherald.com

Bass Coast Blaire Gillis (in burgundy shirt) and Olivia Schuitema enjoy the tranquil sounds of water while enjoying the fall summer sun. Madeline Baker Madeline Baker CONTRIBUTED

Nicola-Canford elementary added a new feature to its grounds over the summer — and it’s not a playground or a sports field.

In fact, the school’s new outdoor calming space is the first of its kind in the British Columbia public school system, a pilot project of sorts with roots in traditional First Nations practices.

It consists of an artificial creek that runs past several stations — a log bridge, a waterfall, an outcropping of large rocks — each of which comes with its own tasks for students and serves its own purpose in the overall goal.

What exactly is the overall goal, beyond just relaxation?

The concept behind this space works by changing the narrative of “problem” students to make space for emotional, social and

spiritual disruptions in their lives that may drive their behaviour.

Instead of being disciplined, they are taught fun and therapeutic activities within the green space to help release or share emotional burdens, calm their heated state of mind, regain gratitude for the positive aspects of their lives and learn other coping skills to improve their overall well-being.

Principal Burt Bergmann, the driving force behind the project, feels this is especially important for the Indigenous children who make up 60 per cent of the school’s population.

“Traditionally, our government agencies — like schools — have not done a stellar job with our Indigenous community,” Bergmann said when explaining the impetus for the calming space project.

“The history of schools has been to not provide space

for language and cultural knowledge, sometimes in very abusive ways. For us to be able to provide that space that was denied them … is the small part we can play for truth and reconciliation.”

Development of the calming space involved extensive consultation with local First Nations bands, particularly two elders: Nooaitch’s Amelia Washington and Shackan’s Jimmy Toodlican, the latter of whom died before he could see the final product inspired by his wisdom.

Water was chosen as the focus because of its sacred status to First Nations peoples, but also because the calming effects of flowing water on the senses have been recognized by many other cultures and schools of study. Bergmann made sure such points of commonality were built into the plan to ensure all students can make use of the space.

“Whether you’re

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Indigenous, Jehovah’s Witness, Christian, whatever your values are and your history is, I want to honour and reflect that and give you a place here,” Bergmann said.

To further that goal, school policy also mandates that any spiritual education tied into use of the space must be requested by the student and is not offered otherwise.

The school’s vision was brought to life by Donna and Dave Mikalishen at Thompson Lawn Care Landscaping. Even with complete trust in the two, Bergmann said he was astonished by the result.

“You should have seen the picture I handed them and they came up with this … It’s all artificial, but in every way that matters, it’s real,” he said.

Donna Mikalishen feels the calming space is a positive alternative to outdated forms of discipline once used by the public school

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system.

“What did they do when you were at school?

They made us stand out in the hall or go get the strap,” she said. “And none of that worked. This way, kids can sit, contemplate and change their mindset ... I’m all for it.”

Students have already begun to ask if they can read and work on assignments by the creek during school hours, according to Donna Mikalishen. She said the one-of-a-kind initiative has received interest from other communities in the Nicola-Similkameen school district.

“If you want to meet kids where they’re at, you need to know them,” Bergmann said of the importance of initiatives like the calming space for all schools. “We can impose what we want them to learn, but the significance of somebody knowing you personally — that makes all the difference.”

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The Bass Coast Festival is freezing attendance at 2019 levels for its 12th annual event, which will take place in Merritt next summer.

The decision means 6,500 people at most will take part in the music and art festival, which is scheduled to be held from July 10 to July 13 at the festival grounds in Merritt.

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Courthouse Upgrades Merritt’s courthouse is set to receive an infusion of funding from the provincial government, which the city hopes will go toward structural maintenance and functional upgrades.

Planned financial support for the courthouse was announced during resolution sessions at last month’s annual Union of BC Municipalities convention in Vancouver.

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4 • THURSDAY, October October17, 17,2019 2019

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City of Merritt

CITY

page

YOU’RE INVITED!

COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE

to meet with Mayor Brown every

Regular Council Meeting - October 22, 2019

Wednesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Committee of the Whole – Marketing Presentation - October 29, 2019

in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall (second floor), 2185 Voght Street.

Committee of the Whole - Budget - October 30, 2019

Interested citizens are welcome to stop by, say hello and discuss issues and opportunities for the City, its residents and businesses.

If you would like to schedule a particular time to meet with the Mayor please contact Corporate Services at 250-378-8614

RECYCLING PROGRAM – BIN INSPECTIONS Throughout the month of October, City workers will be checking recycling bins prior to collection to ensure that only recyclable items are placed in recycling bins. Any bins containing non-recyclables will not be picked up. If your bin is not picked up, we will place a notice advising you of the specific item or items that will need to be removed to ensure collection the following week.

If you have questions about whether an item is recyclable, please visit www.rcbc.ca or www.recyclebc.ca.

We understand that these recycling checks can be frustrating for residents, especially since most residents work hard to recycle appropriately. We at the City take no satisfaction in this process, but we must work to address concerns raised in recent Recycle BC audits, which have turned up knives, clothes, shoes, sleeping bags, piles of toys, yard waste, full bags of garbage, a coffee machine and an iron, in addition to the usual culprits (glass, plastic bags and food contaminated items). We thank you for your patience and understanding.

The City of Merritt Youth Advisory Committee members will: 1. Keep Council informed about important matters affecting youth; 2. Act as a positive advocate for youth and youth initiatives; 3. Proactively consider policies, strategies, and proposals which the Committee believes could improve the lives of youth in Merritt; 4. Actively seek input from youth on important matters and matters delegated to the Committee by Council; 5. Provide leadership experience for youth.

If this is of interest to you Application to Volunteer for the Youth Advisory Committee can completed at www.merritt.ca or picked up at City Hall.

SNOW ANGELS PROGRAM LAUNCH The City of Merritt is pleased to introduce a Snow Angel program for the 2019-2020 snowseason. This program will attempt to unite people who need help clearing their driveways and sidewalks of snow, with eager volunteers from our community who want to help.

Eligible for assistance include residents of Merritt who: • Are 65 years of age or older; • Are under 65 years of age, with a disability; • Are unable to clear the snow on your driveway or sidewalk; • Claim the Seniors or Disability Homeowner Grant; • Are property owners (tenants should contact their landlord for assistance); • Do not have able-bodied persons living at their address.

Service recipients are responsible for providing any necessary snow removal equipment.

However, many Snow Angels may have their own equipment they are willing to or would prefer to use. These arrangements will be made directly between the Snow Angel and the Service recipient.

Volunteer must: • Be 16 years of age or older • Complete criminal record check • Be in adequate physical shape and capable of clearing snow • Be willing to commit for the entire snow season (excepting breaks for travel or holidays) • Be willing to communicate with your assigned Service Recipient in the event you are unable to clear their sidewalk and driveway within 24 hours of a snowfall.

Now is a great time to enjoy our local trail networks.

Online at www.tourismmerritt.ca or pickup at the Merritt Visitor Centre at the Baillie House

For more info contact the Merritt Civic Centre at 250-315-1050

Are you between the age of 14-24 living in the Nicola Valley and seeking leadership experience? The City of Merritt Youth Advisory Committee is seeking seven youth members for a new opportunity to be involved in the community.

NEW NICOLA VALLEY TRAIL GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE

MOVIES at the CIVIC CENTRE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26

YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Tourism Merritt

Connect with us on our new tourism website and social media.

To participate in the Merritt Snow Angels please complete an application available www.tourismmerritt.com • Program #ExploreMerritt at www.merritt.ca and dropped off at City Hall. For program inquiries call 250-378-8634.

ROAD CLOSURE

WHAT: Temporary Road Closure WHEN: November 12th 9:00 am – 9:30 am WHERE: Quilchena Avenue – Voght Street to Granite Street WHY: Conayt Friendship Society – National Addictions Awareness Week

VISIT TOURISM MERRITT FOR MORE TO SEE AND DO Add your event and see all other events in Merritt at www.tourismmerritt.com/events For both locals and visitors to discover more about Merritt and great upcoming events in the community!

#ExploreMerritt

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 5

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

City of Merritt looking to improve infrastructure now and in the future Morgan Hampton CONTRIBUTED

Merritt buses making more stops Three new bus stops have been installed in Merritt, as part of the city’s expanding transit plan. One is in Collettville, one is on Clapperton Avenue and the third stop is near Central Park.

All three are now included on the regular city transit route. As part of Merritt’s long-term capital program, a new bus stop pad was also put in place on Main Street in Collettville, but crews will not be installing a bench or shelter at that location until next year.

Before winter arrives, city crews also perform regular maintenance and repair of all bus stops, some of which are damaged throughout the year and need repair.

“We do regular maintenance on all the bus stop shelters and we try and install three or four every year and get them up and running,” said James Dinwoodie, the city’s director of engineering and development. “The more shelters, the easier it makes it to wait for the bus.”

Handicap parking spot outside post office Four parking spots were removed from outside the post office after resurfacing of Voght Street earlier this fall.

This led to a petition from residents concerned

about the loss of parking and lack of handicap parking spaces at the busy downtown location.

Director of engineering and development James Dinwoodie said no handicap parking spaces were removed when the four stalls were eliminated.

Handicap parking has always been located on Granite Avenue, he said, noting the concern was addressed due to public input.

“They were claiming that the parking on Granite was too far removed from the front door for them to get to with their wheelchairs and walkers, so in the spirit of compromise, we decided to put back one [handicap] space in front,” Dinwoodie said.

Dinwoodie said the city doesn’t want to revert to all parking stalls that were there previously because it contributed to traffic congestion at the intersection. By eliminating parking on one side of the street, he said, the city hopes to improve sight lines and make it easier for both drivers and pedestrians to use the post office safely.

Dinwoodie said this need arose after an elderly woman was struck at the intersection of Voght and Granite in March of 2018. The 92-year-old woman later died of her injuries, her death highlighting issues with the busy intersection.

In addition to the parking changes, a flashing crosswalk light was

installed to make drivers more aware when someone is crossing the street.

Three of the solar-powered, pedestrian-activated crossing lights have been placed around town in an attempt to make road crossings safer for pedestrians. One is at the intersection of Voght and Granite, another is at the hospital crosswalk farther up Voght St. and one is

by Central School.

“We’re hoping to improve the safety of pedestrians by installing these,” Dinwoodie said.

Resurfacing Voght In September, a section of Voght Street, running from Coldwater to Nicola, was resurfaced, briefly causing traffic delay and detours.

The plan, according to director of engineering and development James Dinwoodie, is to resurface Voght from the bridge to Gasoline Alley, but he noted that before that can proceed, there needs to be flood mitigation and flood damage repair between Second Avenue and Blackwell Avenue following extensive flooding on that corner of Voght Street in 2017 and 2018.

Dinwoodie also indicated there is a sewer siphon under the road that takes the sewage from the Bench area to the sewage-treatment plant. This siphon is nearing capacity and would need to be replaced before the road is resurfaced.

“We are applying to the UBCM Community

Emergency Preparedness Fund for the structural flood mitigation grant,” Dinwoodie said.

“Hopefully, they’ll give us the $750,000 we’re asking for, which is the maximum allotment under the grant.”

The engineering and development department is working on the engineering and design for the flood mitigation on Voght Street. The plan will then be used to secure a necessary council resolution of support at the Oct. 22 meeting.

The application for the flood mitigation grant is due on Oct. 25, which is when the City of Merritt will be submitting.

If the grant is provided, the city’s goal is to finish all design work this year, put the project out

roads. We can only do about four a year, so we try to pick the worst areas every year and resurface those before moving on to the next four worst the following year.”

the repair and resurfacing work, Dinwoodie explained: “We have a traffic and road assessment report from Tetra Tech who did an analysis of all of our

to tender and have the work completed, including the Voght Street resurfacing, by the end of 2020.

When asked which streets are chosen for

Merritt & District Hospice Society www.merritthospice.org TRAINING COURSE

Are you interested in becoming a Hospice volunteer?

Are you interested in learning about hospice and grief/loss?

A 3-day training course will be offered on

Oct 23, 30 & Nov 13,2019 ͺǣ͵Ͳ Ͷǣ͵Ͳ

No Charge

ǡ ̷ Ǥ ̷ ʹͷͲ ͵͹ͺ ͷͳͷ͵ SPACE IS LIMITED

Hospice is caring people working in co-operation with physicians and other members of the health care team to offer palliative care to the terminally ill and support to their family.

Hospice also includes grief support services and programs.

The DENTAL CLINIC

Dr. S.K. Saini Inc. Dr. Saini would like to offer

FREE EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES Monday, October 28, 2019 For patients who are in pain and experiencing financial hardship.

All appointments must be pre-booked.

Ph: 250-378-6677 There are limited appointments available.

HOURS OF OPERATION Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm 2199 Quilchena Ave, Merritt • 250-378-6677

ELECTION DAY IS MONDAY, OCTOBER 21!

VOTE for Dan ALBAS POLLS ARE OPEN 7 am - 7 pm

Authorized by the Official Agent for Dan Albas

Contact Dan: 1-877-291-1253

www.danalbas.ca

6 • THURSDAY,

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October 17, 2019

VIEWPOINT EDITORIAL Wolf kill, not backcountry bans, saving caribou It would have come as a relief to many B.C. communities when Forests Minister Doug TOM FLETCHER Donaldson B.C. told me in September his VIEWS latest management plans for 20 endangered caribou herds will not require further industrial or back-country bans.

Now I understand why Donaldson was able to make that decision, after intensive study and community meetings in the Cariboo, Kootenay and Peace regions, packed with people worried about the future of their already fragile resource economies.

Plunging caribou populations are indeed a crisis, one that can be seen across Canada, all the way to the vast herds of Labrador and northern Quebec that are central to the traditional way of life of Indigenous people. That’s why the federal government is poised to invoke its species-at-risk legislation to impose further protection measures on B.C. It’s already too late for some of the 54 B.C. herds, despite protected areas, mothers and calves captured and held in maternity pens, and an escalating program to control rising wolf populations by shooting them from the air.

Donaldson acted on the latest report from ministry biologists, showing the first glimmer of hope.

Three of B.C.’s largest herds in the South Peace have turned the corner from a steep decline towards extinction, and are trending toward recovery. This is after the maternity penning program was extended from Kootenay

See ‘B.C.’S Page 7

Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com

Syria: Wheels within wheels Russia and its Syrian ally Bashar al-Assad win, the Kurds lose, and the United States pull out. It has been a hectic 48 hours on the Turkish-Syrian border.

After a phone GWYNNE DYER call with Turkey’s The international President Recep STAGE Tayyip Erdogan on 7 October, Donald Trump abruptly abandoned America’s Kurdish allies in Syria. As US troops pulled out of their positions along the Syria’s northern border, where they had been protecting the Kurds from a Turkish attack, Erdogan moved fast.

The Turkish president declared that he would take over a big chunk of northern Syria to drive out the Syrian Democratic forces (SDF), the Kurdish-dominated militia that has been America’s key ally in the fight against Islamic State (ISIS). Erdogan described the SDF as ‘terrorists’ and a threat to Turkey, but they are nothing of the sort.

Syrian Kurds are the majority population in the border region with Turkey. They cre-

Sales Associate Michele Siddall sales2@ merrittherald.com

MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

ranite

ated the SDF to resist Islamic State’s attempts to conquer the region five years ago, after the Syrian regular army pulled out of the region to fight rebels elsewhere in the country.

The SDF became America’s key local ally in the fight against ISIS. Over 10,000 Kurds died in that war, while the United States gave them air support. By the end of last year they had destroyed Islamic State, and the whole region was at peace. The local Kurds and their Arab neighbours were running it themselves.

The Kurds did want autonomy within Syria, but they never demanded independence and they have made no attacks on Turkey, terrorist or otherwise. So why did Erdogan want to attack them?

Erdogan is paranoid about the Kurds, because one-fifth of Turkey’s own population are ethnic Kurds, and some of them have waged a guerilla and terrorist struggle for decades, seeking an independent state. Other Kurdish minorities in the region, including those in Syria, are not at war with the Turks, but Erdogan didn’t like having the Kurdish-run SDF on his border.

Erdogan invaded last Saturday, and after about 36 hours the despairing Syrian Kurds did the obvious thing: they asked the Syrian army to come back and save them. They don’t love

Syria’s dictator, Bashar al-Assad, but it’s better than being invaded by Turkey and losing their homes permanently.

But there was something puzzling about all this. Why would Assad’s Russian allies approve a Syrian army move that might bring it into direct conflict with the Turkish army? After all, Vladimir Putin has been courting Erdogan as a potential ally (even though Turkey is currently a NATO member).

The Syrian army is now driving back into the northeastern part of the country unopposed by the SDF. They will re-occupy the whole region (which is Syrian sovereign territory).

The Syrian Kurds may still be able to negotiate an autonomy deal with Damascus, on the grounds that they are Syria’s only non-Arab minority. In any case, they have no other alternative.

Erdogan can either back down and be humiliated, or he can press on and risk a war not only with the Syrian army but also the Russian air force. That’s the way it looks on the surface, and maybe that’s all that’s going on here.

But we must also consider the possibility that

See ‘RUSSIAN’ Page 7

Office manager Ken Couture classifieds@ merrittherald.com

Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241 Fax (250) 378-6818

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

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

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 7

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OPINION B.C.’s largest herds turn Is cutting foreign aid contributions the answer? the corner from extinction

LETTERS

to the editor

From Page 6

Editor, I was shocked to read about Andrew Scheer’s plan to gut Canada’s foreign aid contribution, which is already far lower than most developed nations. This came about as the US renewed their funding to the Global Fund for HIV, TB and Malaria by the tune of almost 5 billion. As the vice president recently said: “The United States has a moral obligation to lead the world in confronting the pandemic of HIV/AIDS.” When Trump’s America shows a greater commitment to internationalism and the world’s poor then Canada, you know something is terribly wrong in the Conservative’s plan.

Nathaniel Poole Brentwood Bay, BC

Creation of jobs is not worth killing our environment Editor, Sadly, climate-protest blockades of bridges, etcetera, are urgently needed.

Whether it’s single-use plastics clogging life-bearing waters, the mass deforestation and incineration of the Amazonian rainforest (the ecosystem biomass of which produces 20 percent of Earth’s oxygen), unprecedented stalling hurricanes, a B.C. midsummer’s snowfall, a vicious heat wave, an endangered whale species gradually dying off, record-breaking flooding or geologically invasive/ destructive fracking or drier forests resulting in unmatched wildfires or a myriad of other categories of large-scale toxic pollutant emissions and dumps—there’s discouragingly insufficient political gonad planet-wide to sufficiently address it.

For too long, what politically mattered most was—and, astonishingly, for too many it still does— the seemingly euphoria-inducing creation of jobs, however temporary, and stimulating the economy, however intangible when compared to the destruction of our natural environment.

Frank Sterle Jr. White Rock, BC

From Page 7

Russian allies approve a Syrian army move the whole thing has been a charade, master-minded withdraws his troops, stating that he is satisfied that the Kurdish ‘threat’ has been ended because the by the Russians, to get the Americans out of Syria Syrian army, not the SDF, now controls the border. and restore Syrian government control over all of Even Iran is satisfied, because this eliminates the eastern Syria. possibility that the US forces First Erdogan puts the could be an obstacle to its frighteners on Trump in planned secure corridor across the famous phone-call, Syria to Lebanon. and Trump abandons the ‘But we must also consider the There’s no proof of this, Kurds and starts pulling possibility that the whole thing but it makes sense. The the US troops out. Then has been a charade, masterRussians are smart enough, Erdogan starts the threatminded by the Russians, to get and Trump is inept or comproened invasion, and the mised enough. It would explain Syrian Kurds understandthe Americans out of Syria why the Russians looked like ably panic and make a deal and restore Syrian government they were backing the Syrians with Damascus. control over all of eastern at the risk of alienating their The Syrian army Syria.’ new Turkish friend. Maybe returns to the northern — Gwynne Dyer there was no risk. Maybe border for the first time in Erdogan was in on the deal. five years without having to And don’t worry about a revival of Islamic fire a shot, carefully avoiding the points along the State. For the thousands of ISIS fighters now held border where the Turks have already entered the prisoner by the Kurds, there can be no worse fate country. than falling into the hands of the Syrian army.

Erdogan declares a ceasefire and eventually

‘‘

herds to the South Peace, and the wolf kill was stepped up over four years.

“The decrease in wolf abundance across the South Peace area has shown conclusive evidence that intensive wolf reduction has halted and reversed the declining trends of the Klinse-Za, Kennedy Siding and Quintette caribou populations,” states the B.C. report submitted to Donaldson in August.

The existing set-asides are enormous, and their effectiveness is questionable. By 2016, the area off limits to logging and road-building in South Selkirks was 2.2 million hectares, covering 95 per cent of prime mountain caribou habitat. The South Peace recovery plan covered 400,000 hectares of high-elevation winter habitat.

As the B.C. Council of Forest Industries pointed out last year, banning forestry and mining is no magic answer. Caribou are declining in Wells Gray Provincial Park in central B.C. and Jasper National Park in Alberta, where there has been no modernday industrial disturbance. They’re gone from Banff National Park, which has been protected since 1885.

Another strategy should be given credit: the efforts of local snowmobile and off-road clubs to keep prime habitat off limits. This is backed up by Conservation Officer Service flights over key areas to enforce restrictions, a daunting task given the size and remoteness of regions. More people are becoming aware of the impact a single snowmobile track through deep snow can have, allowing wolves to quickly penetrate areas they could not otherwise reach.

B.C.’s southern mountain herds have range extending into the United States, and this region has had human settlement and industrial activity for longer than B.C.’s northern regions. The contrast between our efforts and those south of the border was highlighted by a sad news report last week in the Revelstoke Review.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finally declared the whole population of southern mountain caribou endangered, months after they became locally extinct in the U.S. The last three animals in the cross-border herd, known locally as the Grey Ghosts, were captured and relocated to protective pens north of Revelstoke in January. It’s hoped they can bolster a small herd there.

Tom Fletcher is B.C. legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press Media. Email: tfletcher@blackpress.ca

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October 17, 2019

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS POLICE FILES

Merritt man charged with murder

Drynock also faces a new charge for threatening a local with a weapon stemming from an incident in Merritt.

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Drynock faces a slew of charges related to an incident over the Canada Day long weekend where he allegedly threatening a local with a weapon. Herald files Dara Hill THE MERRITT HERALD

Merritt RCMP have confirmed that the Michael Drynock facing first-degree murder charges in connection with the discovery of a missing man found dead the Fraser River is indeed Michael Drynock from the Nicola Valley, the same man whowas charged for firing shots on Coldwater Avenuein April of 2017.

Charges of first-degree murder were laid against Drynock and Jayson Gilbert last month, after autopsy results positively identified a body discovered in the Fraser River west of Williams

Lake as that of missing man Branton Regner. The accused also face two counts of attempted murder in connection with the Rudy Johnson Bridge incident.

The Crown has tacked on another charge against Drynock, for allegedly threatening a local with a weapon on the Canada Day Long weekend. Cpl. Brock Hedrick said Drynock has been charged with the following offences in relation to that incident: Careless use of a firearm, assault with a weapon, possess weapon for a dangerous purpose, possess firearm without registration, possession contrary to an order and possess firearms without a licence.

COURT UPDATE

Caprian to stand trial for alleged arson of local churches A Nicola Valley man accused of setting fire to Merritt-area churches in a string of high-profile arsons early this year is slated to stand trial next summer.

Lawyers met in Kamloops provincial court on Tuesday to set trial dates for August Caprian.

Caprian, 38, is facing three counts of arson and a separate charge alleging he broke into a church with intent to commit arson.

Details of the allegations against Caprian are protected by a courtordered ban on publication, but court documents show he is accused of setting fire to three churches — Murray United Church, Crossroads Community Church and Shulus Catholic Church — on Jan. 11, 2019.

Historic Murray United Church was destroyed by fire. Within days of the fires, investigators determined the blazes were suspicious in nature and likely related.

Caprian’s trial is scheduled to begin in Kamloops provincial court on June 3, 2020.

An evening of local history

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THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 9

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS CELEBRATING DIVERSITY

Inclusive employers celebrated in Merritt

Tyler Delaire working the concession for the community movie night held at the Merritt Civic Centre.

Dara Hill/Herald Dara Hill THE MERRITT HERALD

The hard work doesn’t stop when fitness classes end at Persistence Training Centre in Merritt.

Before and after groups come to get their sweat on, you can find Chris Kurik, a Merritt local who has been hemiplegic for the past six years, whizzing around on his wheelchair — disinfectant in hand — getting the place spic and span.

Owner Kylee Street hired Kurik several months ago and things couldn’t be going better, the pair said.

“He cleans better than the cleaning services we’ve had in the past,” said Street with a chuckle, adding he can clean using an arm and a leg at the same time. “He’s just been able to adapt so well.”

“I wish employers in the Merritt area and throughout Canada would not look at us as handicapped, but as a valuable asset to their company. Just because we’re in a wheelchair doesn’t mean we’re not capable,” Kurik said.

“Some of us can answer phones better than people who have two arms and two legs. We can do cleaning, stocking shelves, all sorts of things.”

Kurik has spent countless hours doing physical therapy to get his body ready for the physical job and is looking to contribute even more to the community.

“If [WorkBC] can get a plow for my wheelchair, which they do make, I could be plowing the sidewalks of Merritt and getting them nice and clean for the elderly.

Kurik is getting his chance now, but a short

time ago, he was strapped for work, unsure of where to turn to make his living.

“One of the things I’ve been disheartened by is that he’s been looking for a job in Merritt for over a year, and [him and WorkBC staff] went to a lot of places that wouldn’t even meet him,” Street said.

“When he came to me, I knew I wasn’t going to give up,” said WorkBC’s Marilyn Tolmie. “I saw Chris as Chris and I knew how hard he was going to work. We just needed to have that door open and we came and talked to Kylee. She was like, ‘Well, let me do an interview,’ and once she met him, she loved him — she hired him on the spot.”

“What our focus here is that everybody is equal and that our community is the same no matter who walks through those front doors,” Street said. “And, with hiring Chris, that just shows that is what we are trying to strive for — creating healthy families and healthy communities.”

A few blocks over at the civic centre, residents can find Tyler stocking snacks and bagging popcorn for the community movie night — another example of inclusive employment in action.

He has been working with the City of Merritt for about a year, logging snack inventory, bagging popcorn and providing customer service for movie-goers at the concession.

“He’s been a huge asset. He is a lot of fun to work with and he’s Mr. social,” said Felicity Peat, recreation programmer at the city. “He makes everyone feel welcome when they come to the civic centre for the movie and he’s great to have.”

“I work hard,” said Tyler. “And it’s fun — I like giving out the popcorn.”

All it takes is an open mind to hire someone with a physical or developmental disability.

“It’s just a willingness to work with someone who maybe has a disability and to realize that they can contribute and make a difference,” Peat said.

The City of Merritt and Persistence Training are only two of a growing group of inclusive employers in the city, including Tim Hortons, Home Hardware, Best Western Plus, Boston Pizza, Procore International Radiators, Nicola Valley Food Bank, Merritt Return-it depot and Mellah Leuca Day Spa. “They’ve just provided in-depth support to our clients,” said Deborah Petrovitch, program operations manager with WorkBC in Merritt.

Many of the organizations have been hiring inclusively for years and each establishment is supported by WorkBC. Petrovitch is on a mission to break down common systemic ideas people have about people living with disabilities.

More than half of people with disabilities in Canada have a post-secondary diploma, certificate or degree, she said, noting disabled people have more value to add to an organization than people might expect.

“I think what people don’t realize is that it’s a two-way street and the benefits that come back to employers,” Petrovitch said.

“Studies have proven that there is improved productivity, that they are great employees. They

have found that among employees with disabilities staff retention was much higher, attendance was average or better,” she said.

“Many of these people, they are thrilled to be working — they are thrilled to have a job they can call their own, and they are maybe not as distracted as other people. For example, an employee with autism, repetition is their friend, they love it. Whereas maybe other people don’t have that strength. So it’s just looking at difference strengths.”

Expanding consumer reach is another, often overlooked, benefit.

“This is the big thing that people don’t realize.

The spending power of people with disabilities is a huge market. So they’re out there in the economy, they have dollars that they want to spend,” Petrovitch said. “If are going to go for lunch, that goes a long way when they can choose between an employer who wants nothing to do with people with disabilities, and people who hire them.”

It’s a win-win for the employer working with a labour shortage and her clients, who are looking to put their skills to use, she added.

WorkBC has all sorts of resources and tools to support both the employer and employee to make sure it’s a good fit for everyone. “Not all people with disabilities need special equipment, and for those who do, we provide it,” she said.

WorkBC premiums for employees do not increase when a business hires someone with a disability, she added.

Employers looking to expand their talent base to those with disabilities should ensure job postings communicate they are an inclusive employer, contain a phone number or email address to open up more conversation about the role and make materials accessible, such as increasing the font size of a posting. In addition, employers should choose an accessible meeting location for the job interview.

Maggie’s Bannock says goodbye Maggie Shuter retires after nearly 30 years in the bannock business.

Maggie (left) and Charmaine Shuter serve up their last batch of bannock in Central Park on Oct. 5. Photo contributed Madeline Baker CONTRIBUTED

Maggie’s Bannock, the fundraising brainstorm that grew into a Merritt institution, officially closed the doors of its food truck on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Maggie Shuter has been in the bannock business since 1991 and was joined by family members, including food truck sous chef Charmaine Shuter, as the business grew to include catering and onsite presence at outdoor events.

Since moving their venue to a food truck format, they have become a fixture at Central Park during outdoor tournament

season.

Their final day of business marked a return to late-lingering summer after several soggy days of cold and rain.

Customers may have had to fight with wasps over who got the first bite of their Indian tacos and bannock dogs, but that wasn’t enough to keep them from grabbing one last bite before the truck left Central Park for the last time.

While other food trucks will surely rise up in the wake of Maggie’s Bannock to serve attendees of the Nicola Valley’s many outdoor events, it’s hard to imagine that any will truly replace Maggie and her wares in Merritt’s heart.

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October 17, 2019

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS FEDERAL ELECTION

Candidate Q&A: Federal corporate welfare This week, the Merritt Herald asked the six candidates running for Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola in the 2019 federal election (shown below, in alphabetical order) the following question: Many Canadians feel they’re bearing too much of the tax burden and large corporations aren’t paying their fair share. What steps do you think need to be taken to address federal corporate welfare?

Dan Albas

Conservative Party

Corporate welfare has gotten out of control under Justin Trudeau. As one example Blackberry was given $40 million from the Trudeau Liberal government. $40 million that Blackberry CEO John Chen candidly admitted Blackberry did not need. Another example was Mr. Trudeau giving $12 million to Loblaws for new refrigeration when at the same time Loblaws

posted net earnings of $800 million.

A new Conservative government under Andrew Scheer will eliminate $1.5 billion in corporate handouts.

It is time that taxpayer money is treated with respect again in Ottawa. The days of sending handouts to Canada’s wealthiest and most politically connected insiders must come to an end.

We cannot afford four more years of Justin Trudeau.

FEDERAL ELECTION

Allan Duncan People’s Party

savings of between $5 billion and $10 billion a year. We will gradually reduce over the course of one mandate the corporate income tax rate from its current 15 per cent down to 10 per cent. When completed, this measure will make about $9.5 billion available to businesses, allowing them to increase salaries or invest in productivity improvements. The PPC, through one mandate, will gradually abolish the personal capital gains tax by decreasing the inclusion rate from the current 50 per cent down to zero per cent, putting billions back into the pockets of Canadians. We want businesses of all sizes to have an opportunity to grow.

To address the unfair advantage that some companies have over others because of corporate welfare programs and to invigorate competition in the marketplace, the PPC has some bold proposals. These are taken from the PPC website’s (peoplespartyofcanada. ca) section on policy.

Ottawa should stop taking billions of dollars from the private sector to redistribute them through subsidies. A People’s Party of Canada government will eliminate all corporate subsidies and other inefficient government interventions (bailouts of failing companies, regional development grants, conditional loans and loan guarantees with an implicit subsidy, tax credits) that unfairly support some companies or business sectors. This will generate

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS FEDERAL ELECTION

More election coverage

As of press time Joan Phillip New Democratic Party did not respond to the Herald’s question.

From Page 6

Robert Mellalieu Green Party

I and the Green Party feel the same way. Large corporations often get tax breaks in the form of subsidies as well.

However, sometimes these subsidies and tax breaks are used to lure businesses into Canada when they wouldn’t normally come to Canada.

In the business world we use a different method. We call it value-added. Value added means that we promote the other features of our product, in this case Canada.

Many businesses want to move to Canada because of our health care, educated population and lifestyle.

These value-added items do not show up on a balance sheet and therefore are hard to calculate.

But, we have a better workforce for corporations and therefore they can make more profit.

Another factor is that the tax system hasn’t kept up with the new ways of doing business. There are many large corporations that pay few taxes, like Netflix.

We will update the tax code to close those loopholes so that all businesses will be taxed on an even playing field.

The government can also use taxes as a punishment. This is a method of taxing a business for its pollution or its damage to the environment or

people. Using these types of taxes will encourage businesses to change their ways.

The use of taxes as a punishment was very successful with reducing the amount of smokers.

Taxes can also be used as an incentive to businesses. We can provide a lower tax rate or subsidies to businesses that help people or the environment.

For instance, we could remove subsidies from oil companies and use those subsidies for electric car companies instead.

One must keep in mind that changing the tax system arbitrarily or too quickly can cause a lurch in the business world. None of these tax changes should happen without consultation with businesses affected.

Mary Ann Murphy Liberal Party

To ensure that we continue to have the resources needed to invest in people and keep our economy strong and growing, we will move forward with a transparent and publicly reported review of several existing tax measures and will take action to make taxes more fair.

A Liberal government will implement initiatives, including: a crack down on corporate tax loopholes that allow companies to excessively deduct debt to artificially reduce the tax they pay; undertake a new

comprehensive review of government spending and tax expenditures, to ensure that wealthy Canadians do not benefit from unfair tax breaks (a similar review, we committed to in 2015, identified more than $3 billion/year that could be reinvested in the middle class); and, modernize antiavoidance rules to stop large multinational companies from being able to shop for lower tax rates by constructing complex schemes between countries.

In addition, we will also make sure that multinational tech giants pay corporate tax on the revenue they generate in Canada.

This will also include working to achieve the standard set by the OECD to ensure that international digital corporations whose products are consumed in Canada collect/remit the same level of sales taxation as Canadian digital corporations.

Jesse Regier

Libertarian Party

Taking justly earned money or property without consent through threat of force is theft.

The Libertarian Party would seek to eliminate all forms of compulsory taxation including the income tax, corporate tax, carbon tax, capital gains tax, etc. Revenue would be raised through a voluntary head tax and other voluntary means such as crowd funding and direct payment for government services. The ability of individuals to keep all the money they justly acquire will supercharge the economy as billions of dollars kept in the pockets of Canadians can be deployed for sav-

ing, investment, production and consumption.

While transitioning to this voluntary tax structure we will maintain a 5 per cent GST to pay for military, police and courts. Consumer taxes are pseudo-voluntary in that you can choose to make purchases and therefore choose to pay tax. Crown corporations will be sold to eliminate the $700 billion dollar federal debt, and federal services will be transferred to the lower levels of government. Individual entrepreneurship in all industries including healthcare and

home building will be decriminalized, cutting annual federal expenses from the current $330

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Cents’ hope leadership, trade will stop slump Christopher Foulds KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

The Merritt Centennials have named their leadership group and traded for a defenceman as the BC Hockey League squad works to escape the Interior Division basement.

Losses to Vernon and Nanaimo last weekend have the Centennials at 2-9 on the season (entering last night’s game against Vernon), last in the seventeam Interior Division and sporting the worst record in the 17-team league.

But the club is hoping leadership and roster changes will help turn the tide.

Fourth-year Centennials forward Rylan Van Unen has been named captain, while the team will split assistant roles for home and away games.

There will be six assistants: second-year defenceman Joey Berkopec, second-year forward Brett Roloson, second-year forward Payton Matsui and newcomers Olson Werenka (defenceman), Matt Osadick (forward) and Troy Quinn (defenceman).

Werenka, Roloson

and Osadick will serve as alternates when the Cents sport their whites, while Berkopec, Matsui, and Quinn will be a part of the leadership group when Merritt wears its traditional red jerseys.

Van Unen said being named captain in his final year of junior A hockey is special.

“It’s an honour to be named captain of the Centennials and to be a part of the great history here,” he said. “Some amazing people have been captain during my time in Merritt and it’s a privilege to be a part of that same group now. I look forward to leading this talented group of guys both on and off the ice.”

Meanwhile, the Centennials have acquired defenceman Doug Scott from the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations.

Scott, a native of North Vancouver, is a veteran of 117 BCHL games with Vernon, the Coquitlam Express and the Cowichan Valley Capitals. He spent last season with the Capitals, where he played 54 games, scoring four

goals and adding eight assists. He also added four more points in 12 games during the Capitals’ run to the second round of the playoffs. This season, he has played six games with Vernon, netting one goal.

Centennials’ head coach and general manager Barry Wolff said Scott is the quintessential stay-athome blueliner.

“First off, Doug is a great kid and teammate, but he also brings a solid defensive game to the table,” Wolff said. “He competes hard and he doesn’t like to lose.”

On the ice last weekend, Merritt lost 5-2 to the hometown Vipers and were edged 4-3 by the visiting Nanaimo Clippers.

Against Vernon, Van Unen and Thomas Manty scored Merritt’s goals. Ryan Winter stopped 24 of 29 shots in the loss.

In the contest against Nanaimo — featuring the two oldest BCHL franchises — Merritt came out ahead on the shot clock (41-30), but fell just short on the scoreclock before 570 fans at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

Payton Matsui and

Josh Kagan (2) scored for Merritt, with Manty notching two assists. Tanner Marshall was in the Cents’ net, turning aside 26 of 30 shots he faced.

OVERTIME — Merritt’s power play remains an issue, with the team failing to score in its last 38 times with the man advantage ... Despite the slow start on the ice, the club’s attendance is solid.

Through six home games at the 1,000-seat Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, Merritt is averaging 675 fans per game, drawing a total of 4,047 fans thus far.

The Sept. 6 opening-night game against Wenatchee featured the largest crowd (894), while last Saturday’s game against Nanaimo saw the smallest crowd of the season so far (570) ...

Merritt hosted Vernon on Wednesday night (after Herald press deadline) and will be in West Kelowna this Saturday. The Centennials will return home for three consecutive games: Oct. 25 against Langley (7 p.m.), Oct. 27 against Penticton (2 p.m.) and Oct. 30 against Chilliwack (7 p.m.).

Motorcycle drag racing action heats up Submitted copy THE MERRITT HERALD

Nicola Valley riders were in action last month in motorcycle drag racing competition in Alberta and B.C. In Canadian Motorcycle Drag Racing Association action in Medicine Hat on Sept. 6, Merritt’s Matt Mackay-Smith qualified in first place in pro class super bike, while Roger Bouchard, also of Merritt, qualified seventh before being eliminated in the second round.

Former Merritt residents Derek, Mike and Jared Rose also took part. Derek qualified 10th in super bike before being eliminated in the third round. Mike qualified 15th out of 15 racers and was eliminated in the third round. Jared qualified first in hot twin and fourth in street class.

On Sept. 7, Mackay-Smith won pro-mod with a pass of 7.43 seconds at 174 m.p.h. Bouchard qualified seventh in a class of 15 and was eliminated in the second round.

Derek Rose qualified fourth in a class of 15 and was eliminated in the second round. Mike qualified

ninth and was eliminated in the first round by Derek. Jared qualified third and was eliminated in the first round of hot twin and the first round of street class.

Racers were in Mission two weeks later, Sept. 21, for a day of racing in which Mackay-Smith qualified fourth and won pro-mod class with his best pass of the season, 7.21 at 182 m.p.h.

Bouchard qualified second in a class of 14 before being eliminated in the first round.

Derek Rose qualified sixth in a class of 14 and was eliminated in the first round by Mike, who qualified ninth before being knocked out in the third round. Jared qualified first and finished second in hot twin and qualified second in street.

On the season, Mackay-Smith won the pro-mod championship with a perfect record, while Bouchard finished a personal-best of fourth place in super bike.

Derek Rose finished fifth in super bike, three spots ahead of Mike in eighth, while Jared wound up fourth in hot twin and fifth in street.

The CMDRA season will conclude with a banquet in Edmonton on Oct. 26.

CROSS COUNTRY

Merritt pushes hard in cross-country run Christopher Foulds KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

Student athletes from Merritt, Ashcroft, Clearwater and Kamloops took part in a cross-country meet in Central Park on Oct. 9.

The sun was sparkling and the air was crisp as participants ran the 1.3-kilometre loop. Juniors ran three laps (four kilometres) and seniors ran four laps (5.3 kilometres).

vs vs

In the 17-participant junior girls’ division, Merritt secondary runners finished seventh (Michaela Nicholls, in a time of 19.22), ninth (Paige Asselstine, 19.5) and 12th (Semiah Oppenheim, 21.01). Division winner was Elizabeth McCleary of Valleyview secindary in Kamloops, with a time of 17.23).

The junior boys’ division had 22 runners, with Merritt secondary’s

Wade Kanigan finishing ninth (17.16) and Jamez Oppenheim and Josh Babcock finishing tied for 21st (25.07). Bryce Lehmann of Sa-Hali secondary in Kamloops was first across the finish line in a time of 15.24.

The senior girls’ division welcomed 13 runners, with Merritt secondary’s Lexus Thomas finishing third in a time of 25.09.

First place went to Leah Demsey of Valleyview sec-

ondary in a time of 24.56.

There were 15 entrants in the senior boys’ division, with Merritt secondary’s Zach Loewen placing seventh (22.39), Keaton Robinson finishing 11th (25.34) and Mason Ortega crossing the finish line in 13th spot (27.59).

The West Zone high school cross-country championships took place in Kamloops on Wednesday, after Merritt Herald press deadline.

Students from Merritt, Ashcroft, Clearwater and Kamloops took part in a cross-country meet held October 9 in Central Park (Photo contributed).

Merritt HAVE YOU TRIED THE CENTS ONLINE WEEKLY Centennials Register at centsweekly5050.thelottofactory.com LANGLEY RIVERMEN

Friday, Oct. 25 - 7 pm

PENTICTON VEES

Sunday, Oct. 27 - 2 pm

Pre-pay for a week, a month, or the year.

Turn that toonie into over $200

50/50

You must play every week to win.

19+ know your limit, stay within it.

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

14 • THURSDAY, October 17,

www.merrittherald.com

2019

CENTURY 21 Moving Real Estate

®

#102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8

250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100 1913 GRANITE AVE

D L O S Quality built 3 bedrm home in excellent location. Home has updated kitchen, central A/C, BI vac, security system, hardwood flooring, newer roof, skylights & shed. Nice open kitchen, formal dining & living rm. .

#3125

$429,900

#107, 2514 SPRING BANK

www.century21.ca/movingrealestate

Check out our website for full details on our listings.

2717 GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS

2770 PEREGRINE WAY

#107 1401 NICOLA AVE

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.

Two bedroom mobile in Eldorado Mobile Home Park overlooking golf course and is a riverfront property. Very good condition, new hot water tank and new roof to be installed. Has an attached workshop & covered deck. Pad rent $403 per month

#3118

#3133

$739,900 + GST

2749 PEREGRINE WAY

#3084 $349,900 471 WOODWARD AVENUE

$89,900

#110, 1401 NICOLA AVE.

#3126

$525,000

1937 MERRITT AVE

Personal Real Estate Corporation

315-3043

2890 SCOTT PLACE

6965 OLD NICOLA TRAIL

HEADWATERS LAKE #2

6953 OLD NICOLA TRAIL

MERRITT DRY CLEANING

Great 2 bedrm rancher close to all amenities with fenced backyard & U/G sprinklers. Open concept kitchen/living/ dining. Kitchen has large island with all appliances. Family room has gas F/P. RV parking.

Nicely landscaped home with 4 bedrms, 2.5 baths, galley kitchen with oak cabinets, island & pantry. Family rm overlooks backyard. Home has upgrade furnace, newer roof & newer flooring throughout. Has 15x8 workshop.

Waterfront lot of 0.83 acres on Nicola Lake at Quilchena on the Lake development.

Build your dream home in this exclusive neighbourhood. Lake is great for all outdoor water & rec. activities

Seasonal waterfront cabin on Headwaters Lake #2. Rustic cabin with open concept, master bedrm on main with huge bedrm above. Has enclosed deck with hot tub, storage shed. Crown lease.

This 1.6 acres waterfront lot on Nicola Lake in Quilchena on the Lake development, is just 2.5 hrs from Lower Mainland and 15 minutes from Merritt. Great fishing & outdoor water recreation activities. Water & sewer not connected.

Well maintained & established business, a turnkey operation. 3200 sq.ft. building, good parking, comes with all equipment. Numerous building & equipment upgrades. Room for growth

#3106 $329,000

#3127

#3132

#3109

#3130

#3046

2051 PARKER DRIVE

$438,900

$415,000

$399,900

$409,900

$499,000

2175 MAMETTE AVE

3006 HILTON DRIVE

4580 IRON MOUNTAIN RD

6433 MONCK PARK RD

1898 BLAIR ST

ED

UC D E R Very nicely finished Jenish style rancher with 4 bedrms, 4 baths & fully finished bsmt. Large open kitchen with island, pantry & Hickory cabinets, bamboo flooring & low E windows. Spectacular views.

New custom executive home with fantastic views. 3 bedrms on the main with open concept floor plan. Master has 4 pce ensuite & W/I closet. Large private deck in back off the family room.

Great 2 bedroom starter home in investment property. Has 16x12 covered deck overlooking the Nicola River. Relax and watch the wildlife on the river. Pad rent $404 per month

3 bedroom rancher on the Bench with immaculate fenced back yard & beautifully manicured lot. Has had updates over the past few years of furnace, HW tank & roof. Has workshop, shed & single garage.

Nice 3 bedrm home in good neighbourhood.

Home has many updates of roof, siding, bathrms, paint, U/G sprinklers deck & more.

Nicely landscaped, inground pool, RV parking.

Fantastic 17+ acres with barn & fenced area for horses. Spacious 5 bedrm, 3 bath home with open concept, & quality throughout.

Huge rec.rm, games rm & gym in full bsmt. Just 15 mins. from Merritt. Fantastic views

This 1 acre lot with 180 degree view of Nicola Lake is perfect to build your dream home or recreational retreat. Lake access through the boat launch only minutes away. Services available

Fully fenced commercial property of approx. 30,000 sq.ft. with 2 titles. Seller is motivated & will consider carrying mortgage or a joint venture in a building complex

#3101

New rancher with loft with open plan concept, 9 ft ceilings, vinyl plank flooring & carpet throughout.

Gas F/P in large living room. Laundry on the main along with master bedrm with 4 pce ensuite & W/I closet. Upper floor has 2 bedrms & bathrm. New Home Warranty. GST applies.

#3116

#3134

#3136 $364,900

#3128 $375,000

#3122

#3131

#3069

#3137

$369,500

1602 POPE PLACE

$639,900+ GST

2760 PEREGRINE WAY

$76,000

#205, 2514 SRPINGBANK AVE

D L O S Private Lower Nicola property, nicely landscaped with creek running through front of property. 1 bedrm up & 1 down, open concept kitchen with all appliances & huge master bedrm with ensuite. Woodstove in full bsmt. Large workshop 22x50.

2100 TAYLOR PLACE

Karen Yakimchuk 315-3076

Brad Yakimchuk

Melonie Ivanic 778-803-6554

D L SO

D L SO New 2 bedroom strata unit in newer development. Master bedrm has W/I closet & 5 pce ensuite. Open concept kitchen with quartz counters. Gas F/P in large living room.

Double garage. GST applies

Don Gossoo, Managing Broker

Doug Beech (Owner) 378-7392

BC LTD.

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 15

www.merrittherald.com

#7, 1401 NICOLA AVE.

This newer 2 bedroom home in great neighbourhood, has open concept plan and 3 baths. Fenced yard with underground sprinklers. Master bedrm has 5 pce suite with soaker tub.

New executive family home on the Bench with views. 3 bedrms, 2 baths, designer kitchen with quartz counters, gas F/P in living room, 5 pce ensuite & a full unfinished basement. GST applies.

New two storey townhouse in Nicola Bluffs with great views. Open concept kitchen, vinyl plank floors, gas F/P, 3 bedrms up, 4 baths, & full bsmt with rec. rm & storage. 2 car garage. GST applies

1992 two bedroom mobile with 24 x 12 addition.

Addition contains mudroom and an enclosed deck. Has carport, small garden area and storage shed plus area enclosed for pet. Pad rent $404 per month.

#3129

#3117

#3123 $399,900

#3135

$335,000

1653 LINDLEY CREEK RD

$739,900

$87,900

2549 CLAPPERTON AVE

2338B COLDWATER AVE

1775 BLAIR ST

Nice 3 bedrm home with some renovations including new flooring, paint & shingles. Reno’s still in progress.

Has 24x24 detached shop/garage.

Close to schools & shopping. Garden area in backyard.

Bright & cheery 3 bedroom half duplex in good area & close to shopping & school. 2 bedrooms up, recently painted & newer flooring in most rooms.

1 bedrm down, large rec. room & 3 pce bath. Big backyard.

Nice family home on a 12,000 sq.ft. fully fenced lot. Home has 3 bedroom on the 3 & 3 bedrms in the fully fin. Bsmt. New HW tank, furnace, sewer main and updated kitchen. Large garage with power.

5609 MONCK PARK RD

$469,900

$739,900

$165,000

6348 MONCK PARK ROAD

6397 MONCK PARK RD

2845 NEILSON ST

Cute & cozy log cabin at Mile High Estate strata development. Open concept kitchen/ living room and 1 bedroom. Approx. 35 mins. from Kamloops & 3.5 hrs from Lower Mainland.

Strata fees are $62.50 per month.

1 acre waterfront lot on Nicola Lake. Build your dream home or vacation getaway . Land has gentle slope to waterfront. Great location for many water sports and close to Monck Park Provincial Park. Water & sewer to lot line.

Can’t beat these fantastic lake views on the 0.94 acre lot. In area of high end custom homes. Fantastic place to build your getaway retreat!. Easy access to boat launch, swimming & more.

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.

#3112

#3071

#3078

#3090

ON FACE LAKE

D L O S Cozy cabin above Harmon Estates with views of Nicola Lake. Has 3 bedrooms with master on the main & 2 above.

Open concept kitchen/living room with woodstove. Has above ground pool & large deck.

#3107

$319,900

LOT 1, HOUSTON ST.

$439,000

$229,900

$450,000

$164,500

$1,650,000.

923 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

6685 MONCK PARK RD

LOT A, MCPHAIL ROAD

1132 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

Approx. 291 acres with huge potential for many different projects. Current plans call for a development of 2 acre estate lots with city boundaries. Fantastic views of the valley

Great 1 acre lakeview lot with stunning panoramic views of Nicola Lake. The perfect place to build your country retreat, in neighbourhood of high end custom homes.

Enjoy fishing, swimming & boating

158 Acres in Aspen Grove with rolling hills, grasslands & views with Otter Creek meandering through the property. A breathtaking property to build your private retreat. Approx. 30 mins. from Merritt

Two 10 acre parcels in the City limits with separate titles. Zoned M1. Located on truck route and easy access to highway.

Great place to start your business.

#2956 $4,900,000

#2971

#3110

#3080

NEW Great starter home or investment property, with second living quarters in basement. Has fenced yard and 1 car garage. Close to amenities and shopping.

#3113

$219,000

The perfect lot to build your dream home. This lot is in a growing new subdivision & the natural slope of the land will allow for a rancher style home in the front with a walkout basement.

Great views

#3138

$64,999

Grandview Heights

#3114 $369,900

#3111

$249,900

#3096

$419,000

Approximately 4 acre parcel of residential development land zoned R-1. City services are not connected.

Bring your ideas.

#2959

$230,000

Spius Creek Estates

$162,900

Prices Starting at $104,000 + GST Fully serviced residential lots with fantastic views of the Nicola Valley and surrounding mountains. Choose your lot, bring your plans & start building your future! Close to #2894 shopping.

LOT A, MIDDAY VALLEY RD

1101 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

Build your dream home in one of Merritt areas finest development, Nicola Lakeshore Estates.

Water & sewer hookups available. Close to water access. This lake is known for fishing, water skiing & more

122 acres of multiple zonings C4, C6 and R1. Buyer should contact the City of Merritt to request suitable zoning to match their needs. Call for more details.

10 acre development site with CD-1 zoning. Will have city water and sewer (not connected yet). Bring your ideas and call for more details.

#3074

#2957 $1,584,000

#2958

$159,900

Located Off Petit Creek Road

Prices starting at $224,000 Approx. 10 acre lots located just 15 minutes west of Merritt in beautiful Sunshine Valley. Stunning view of the valley and some lots are river front. Disclosure Statement available. #2990 Call for more details.

$2,000,000

6449 MONCK PARK RD

6397 MONCK PARK RD

RESIDENTIAL VIEW LOTS

$1,200,000

Build your dream home in Nicola Lakeshore Estates on this 0.94 acre lot with 180 degree views. Great lake for fishing, boating, waterskiing & more.

Water & sewer services available.

#3078

$164,500

Call us for a Market Evaluation

$750,000

MIDDAY VALLEY ROAD

Approximately 5 acre parcel, north facing, with fantastic views. City services, not currently connected.

Zoned R-9 High Density Residential.

Great opportunity. Call for details

#2962

$300,000

www.century21.ca/movingrealestate • 378-6166 • www.century21.ca/movingrealestate • 378-6166 • www.century21.ca/movingrealestate

16 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

October 17, 2019

2019

Small Business Week OCTOBER 20TH - 26TH

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY, CREATES GOOD ECONOMIC GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY.

BUILDING our COMMUNITY One Business at a Time!

HEADQUARTERS FOR ALL WORK AND RECREATION NEEDS Winter will soon be here...We have a wide selection of name brands to keep you warm!

FOR OVER 25 YEARS, Community Futures Nicola Valley has been working with local entrepreneurs to assist them in business start-up, business growth, and maintenance. In 2018 alone, 11 new business loans were made at an average value of $48,000 while 241 Clients were served. This led to the creation of 24 new jobs and maintained 10 existing jobs in our community. We are the Go-To Source for all your small business needs.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

Like us on

• Business Counselling (Business Start-ups, business plans, & more) • Small Business Loans for up to $150,000 • Community Building through Partnerships with local organizations.

www.cfdcnv.com 2185 B Voght St., Merritt, BC • 250-378-3923

DOWNTOWN MERRITT: #120 1700 Garcia St. Railyard Mall

250-378-5217

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 17

www.merrittherald.com

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

Why should we celebrate Small Business Week?

Small Business Week is approaching, but what does this mean for Canadian entrepreneurs? From October 20th to October 26th, 2019, thousands of small business owners come together to celebrate, learn, and network with other entrepreneurs.

Small and medium-sized businesses are the foundation of the Canadian economy, accounting for 99% of all businesses. In 2015, SMBs employed approximately 10.5 million Canadians in the private sector. With the small business industry growing, it is important that we take the time to recognize their successes.

Suporting small business in your community helps everyonem promotes local jobs and helps the economy.

Showcasing the people behind the busi-

ness is this year’s theme. Canadian small business owners are encouraged to share their stories about launching their businesses and discover what keeps other entrepreneurs motivated to drive towards success.

Though consumers no doubt understand how buying from local merchants can benefit those merchants, few may grasp just how beneficial buying local can be to their entire communities.

In 2012, Civic Economics, an economic analysis and strategic planning firm, analyzed data from 15 independent retailers and seven independent restaurants, comparing those businesses’ local economic impact with four national retailer chains and three national restaurant chains.

The study found that the local retailers returned 52 percent of their revenue to the local economy, a figure that dwarfed the revenue returned by the national chains, which returned just 14 percent of revenue to the local economy. Restaurants provided an even bigger boost to local economies, returning 79 percent of their revenue compared to just 30 percent for the national chain restaurants.

The reasons for these disparities include local businesses spending more on local labor and relying more heavily on local service providers. So while buying local may be more convenient and eco-friendly, it also can greatly benefit local economies.

CREATIVE COMPANY Beautiful hand-made items by

local artisans

“Thank you to all of our customers for supporting our artisans and shopping local ” Monday to Saturday 10 am - 5 pm 2074 Quilchena Avenue

378-0813

Visit our website: www.creativecompany.ca

HOURS

Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday - Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm Dentistry at Merritt has been serving the people of Merritt and area, since May 2013.

The clinic offers all general dentistry services from simple fillings, dental caps (crowns), root canal treatments, extractions, fixed teeth and dentures. In addition, we have been providing many specialty services like, sedation for kids, IV/oral/nitrous sedation for adults, wisdom tooth extractions, implant based dentures and single teeth. We are committed to our vision of providing dental services in a calm, comfortable, relaxed environment.

The clinic has 3 general dentists and two orthodontists (braces specialists) available as well, for all your needs from basic to advanced treatments for straightening and alignment of teeth for both kids and adults.

We take pride in being an active member of the community by sponsoring the Merritt Centennials, supporting the Heart and Stroke foundation and serving many personal care homes as well. We hope to continue with your support.

Providing the best quality dental services, close to your home.

Dr. J. Sarao-DMD, Dr. S. Malhotra-DDS, Dr. R. Dutt-DMD Call

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

COME ON IN TO THE GAME ON PUB Let our courteous and professional staff treat you to a hot meal and a cold beverage, while you enjoy watching a game, or socializing with friends in our comfortable atmosphere!

SDAY T R U H T NIGH G N I W

STEA FRIDAY K&P SATURDAY RAWN S BABY BACK RIBS Jeanette & Mike and Tom & Maxine (and of course Maxine’s dog Kirby)

would like to THANK our community for choosing to use our local services.

We believe in providing the best possible service and expertise at fair prices.

A PIECE OF HISTORY: Nicola Plumbing & Heating opened its doors on March 29, 1982. Five years later, on January 9, 1987 the company was purchased by Tom Matthias Sr. and has been in the Matthias family ever since.

We have the NHL Hockey Package, playing every game of the entire season!

KITCHEN HOURS: Daily: 11:00AM to 10:00PM

Tom Sr.’s sons - Mike and Tom Jr. - were an important part of the company all along, with Mike specializing in plumbing and Tom Jr. in sheet metal and heating; on January 2, 2006 both became the new owners of Nicola Plumbing & Heating and Tom Sr. started his well-deserved retirement.

In 2010 Nicola Plumbing & Heating moved into the current location on Coutlee Avenue, where the plumbing & heating showroom and store, as well as the office and the sheet metal shop are all under one roof. Supported by their wives Maxine and Jeanette, Tom Jr. and Mike are happy to look after all your plumbing & heating needs and always offer expert advice.

Using all local beef from Nicola Valley Meats

3701 De Wolf Way, Merritt • 250-315-1022

CHECK OUT OUR NEW FALL FEATURES

nicolaplumbingandheating.com

email: nicplumb@telus.net

FAX: 378-8801 2064 COUTLEE AVE MERRITT PHONE: 378-4943

18 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

October 17, 2019

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

How to hire the best employees When you’re hiring it’s important to cast a wide net to attract applications from the best candidates. Fortunately, it’s never been easier to get your job posting in front of prospective employees thanks to the many tools and resources designed to connect you to job seekers.

Here is an overview of the main strategies you can use to hire top performing employees.

1. Word of mouth Despite the advances of the digital age, conventional word of mouth referrals remains the top way of finding job candidates for small businesses, according to a February 2016 survey by online payroll service provider SurePayroll.

Word of mouth recruiting works because employees found through this method have more information about your company and how they are expected to perform. Your best employees can likely refer other good performers since they understand what it takes to do well in your company.

You can increase the amount of word of mouth referrals you get by giving your existing employees financial or other incentives to recommend candidates. Making sure all employees are aware of vacant positions will also help you get more referrals.

Job fairs and on-campus recruitment is a way to create personal connections with potential applicants. Organizing events where employees can invite their friends and

families can also help you create relationships with potential recruits.

2. Online job boards Online job boards are available at websites such as Workopolis, Craigslist, Indeed, Monster.ca, Careerbuilder and SimplyHired. These sites usually charge companies to post a job opening. Some sites allow you to search through resumes that job seekers have posted. You can also create a company page to attract more attention from job seekers.

Make sure to also post your vacancies on federal and provincial government job banks to get a maximum of visibility for your opening.

work for you.

Finally, job ads on social media allow you to target very specific demographic groups, including by location and interests. You can monitor the response and tweak the ad to optimize your results.

4. Your own website Make sure to post employment opportunities on your company website.

5. Print ads Also consider conventional advertising in magazines, newspapers and trade publications to reach a maximum number of potential applicants.

6. Customers It can be useful to mention job openings in discussions with customers as well as in newsletters and other material you send to

3. Social media You can use social media in creative ways to find employees. For example, you can announce openings on your company’s LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter pages and encourage employees to post about openings on their personal pages. In addition, you can post about openings on discussion forums and other Facebook and Twitter pages connected to your industry.

Another avenue is to follow social media discussions to spot people who make insightful comments and could be promising job candidates, then contact them about job opportunities. You can also search LinkedIn for people matching your criteria and contact them directly to see if they’d like to

Come on in and visit Vicki and Dee

One Year Anniversary CELEBRATION Saturday, October 19 10 am - 5 pm

See all the beautiful giftware from our local artists, plus flowers and plants galore!

POP IN FOR SPECIALS, CAKE, COFFEE AND DOOR PRIZES PLEASE SUPPORT OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES

250-315-2256

2052B Quilchena Avenue - Merritt, BC

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 19

www.merrittherald.com

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

for your business them. They already like your products, so they may know of good candidates or be interested themselves.

7. Outreach organizations Consider partnering with organizations that specialize in helping underemployed groups such as immigrant or Indigenous workers. Such agencies can help you correct any hiring barriers, expand your pool of job candidates and educate existing employees about the importance of workforce diversity.

Some agencies also offer mentorship services that match companies with new workers and volunteering opportunities, such as participation in advisory committees or guest speaker programs. agencies can also help you address post-hiring issues.

Digital Online Advertising services.

• website design and tracking • social media management • blog management • community display • paid search and so much more!

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

MERRITT HERALD

8. Professional associations Professional associations can be another good source of candidates. Many associations host job boards where you can post openings for free and member directories where you can search for potential employees.

9. Other options Other resources for recruiting employees include schools, colleges, training programs, university co-op programs, job fairs and staffing or placement firms.

2090 Granite Ave., Merritt • 250-378-4241

Michele: sales2@merrittherald.com • Theresa: publisher@merrittherald.com

EXPLORE MORE ON TWO WHEELS

MARIN BIKES OUR FLAGSHIP ENDURO RACER

BIKES 250-936-9702 NEW LOCATION FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Frank of Frank’s Mechanical

is a hard working, honest business owner who is not only committed to his business but to the community he lives in as well. Frank volunteers in the local Merritt Snowmobile Club and is always willing to give a hand where its needed.

Frank will use his 30+ years of automotive experience to have your vehicle repairs completed in a timely and cost effective manner. His committment is to running a honest, reliable shop where everyone can feel safe from being taken advantage of.

Old or New we have warranty approved maintenance solutions for everyone • Tune Ups • Brakes • Exhaust • Suspension • Lube/Oil • Radiator Service • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning Service

Owner Frank Douthwright

250-378-1322

2026 Mamette Ave, Merritt

• Full service including wheel building and suspension • SALES OF NEW AND USED bicycles, E-bikes, Nordic skis, stunt scooters, inflatable SUP’s and Kayaks • RENTALS: Full Suspension MTB’s, SUP’s, Kayaks, Nordic Skis, and Snowshoes

• Puppets • Mens Rockwell Razors • Leather Wallets • • Complementary Gift Wrapping • Diffusers • Peanut Brittle •

Quality Auto Service & Repairs for your Car or Light Truck

SERVICE

Your d ourhoo Neighb Store Drug

2

95 Since 1

We are more than just a Pharmacy

20% OFF one reg. priced

GIFTWARE Item

Must present coupon at time of purchase.

FREE

delivery for seniors & those with restricted mobility.

Thanks for shopping local

Merritt!

2037 Quilchena Ave., Merritt

250-378-2155

• Stocking Stuffers • Skincare • Essential Oils •

• Greeting Cards • Cozy Socks • Souvenirs • Lottery • Scarves •

FRANK’S MECHANICAL SERVICES

S

RENTAL

Merritt’s bicycle and Nordic Ski Shop

1960 QUILCHENA AVENUE BESIDE THE LEGION

E-BIKES

20 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

October 17, 2019

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

Build consumer trust with sustainability Find out the size of your environmental footprint To avoid the perception of greenwashing, businesses should partner with credible organizations, or seek third-party certifications that offer concrete, measurable performance standards.

There are a growing number of companies and organizations that will help small companies assess their environmental footprint and recommend ways to reduce it.

For example, Climate Smart in Vancouver works with partners to offer training, software and a technical support program that are designed and priced for small and medium-sized businesses.

Environmentally friendly efforts can also be an important competitive advantage It has never been a better time to build a sustainable business. In many industries, it’s now essential for attracting and retaining customers, employees and suppliers.

As an entrepreneur, telling customers about your efforts will help build trust.

“Be sure there’s substance and real action behind your message,” says Michel Bergeron, BDC’s Chief Strategy Officer. “A reputation takes many years to build but can be lost in minutes.”

Play it straight with sustainability Consumers have become adept at spotting questionable environmental marketing claims.

They won’t hesitate to attack what’s known as greenwashing—making false or exaggerated environmental claims—on social media.

Remember that genuine efforts to reduce your company’s environmental impact can also be an important competitive advantage.

NEED A DENTIST?

New patients are always welcome here at Stoyoma!

Come in and see our kind, courteous and professional staff for all your dental needs!

Cutting emissions reduces costs One Climate Smart clients, Sunrise Soya, installed a boiler economizer at its tofu manufacturing facility in Vancouver to capture and re-use waste heat. Combined with other process changes identified in its greenhouse gas reduction program, the company saved up to $22,000 annually in natural gas costs.

Credibility goes beyond customers BDC’s Michel Bergeron says it’s not only customers that companies should worry about alienating with exaggerated environmental claims. Greenwashing can also tarnish your credibility with suppliers.

For example, an increasing number of large retailers now require their suppliers to measure the environmental impact of their goods as part of a new labelling program,

akin to nutritional labels on food.

Not living up to your environmental claims could also trigger a backlash from employees, and diminish your company’s ability to hire and retain top talent. Bergeron says recruiting was a main driver behind BDC’s decision to ramp up its environmental practices.

“What we’re seeing among our employees, is that corporate social responsibility is important to them,” he says. “If your company doesn’t measure up, they’ll often look elsewhere.”

Top tips to build consumer trust with sustainability • Environmentally friendly products must be able to compete with conventional products.

• Be careful not to expose your company to greenwashing charges.

• Support your environmental claims with independent certification.

• Not all products are appropriate for environmentally friendly marketing (green marketing).

• Your business doesn’t need to be completely sustainable, as long as you can show commitment.

• Sustainable practices are good business, enhancing the company’s image and saving you money.

High-Quality Service Since 1972

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

Family-owned since 1972, Copper Valley Mechanical Contractors Ltd. provides optimal heating, plumber and gas-fitting services to the Merritt area. We serve both commercial and residential customers, from service work to new construction.

Our customers appreciate the value the Copper Valley Man brings – the efficiency and professionalism of our work. We follow through to make sure the work is completed thoroughly and to your satisfaction.

WHENEVER YOU SEE A SUCCESSFUL NE OMEO BUSINESS, S E A ONCE MAD S COURAGEOU AT DECISION TH AM. A DRE STARTED AS We are open Mon. to Fri.: 8 AM - 4:30 PM

Call: 250-378-5877

2088 Quilchena Ave., (next to the Royal Bank) PO Box 3090, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

• Heating Installations • Sheet Metal • Plumbing • Gas Fitting • Air Conditioning • Water Heaters • Heat Pumps • Water Conditioning Treatment and Softeners • Fireplaces • Pellet Stoves • Geothermal Systems • Hot Tub Sales • Duct Cleaning • Water Supply, Waste Pumps and System s • Water Testing • Gas Furnaces and Radiant Heating • Boilers and In-Floor Heating • Wood-Heating Boilers • Gas and Wood Stoves

www.coppervalleymechanical.ca

2151 COUTLEE AVE. 250-378-5104

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 21

www.merrittherald.com

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

Communities can celebrate local businesses

Owning a business is the goal of many would-be entrepreneurs. Being your own boss has certain perks, including making your own hours and not having to report to anyone but yourself.

But owning a business is a lot of work, especially for new business owners trying to get their businesses off the ground. According to Bloomberg, eight out of 10 entrepreneurs who start businesses fail within 18 months of opening their doors. The Small Business Association indicates the numbers are not so dire, saying 30 percent of new businesses fail in the first two years of operation; 50 percent during the first five years; and 66 percent during the first 10.

Local businesses face an uphill battle to survive, but there are many things residents can do to support these valuable additions to their communities.

• Shop locally. Shopping locally not only supports local businesses, but it also contributes to the local economy. Shopping locally keeps money in the community, which can benefit everyone. Shopping locally produc-

es a trickle-down effect, as local businesses that are thriving may patronize other local businesses, and so on. This, in turn, helps grow other businesses in the community, making it a nicer place to live and work.

• Spread the word. Word-of-mouth advertising is effective. A respected member of the community who shares a good experience with a local business may propel others to patronize the business. Speak up when you feel a business owner has provided an exceptional level of service. Recommend a company to friends and neighbors. You also may want to review a business via online rating websites such as Yelp or Angie’s List.

• Attend grand openings. Each community is unique, and often the vibe of a community is defined by the businesses that call that community home. Attend grand openings to show you are invested in the quality and vitality of your community. When others see a business doing well, they may be more inclined to shop there as well.

• Apply for work. Another way to support a local business is to work for one. Small local businesses employ millions of people across the country, and many foster great working environments. In addition, small businesses are known for their customer service, and employees often become experts in their products and services because of the handson experience they gain while working for small businesses.

Supporting and celebrating local businesses can instill a sense of community pride and benefit the local economy in a myriad of ways.

Save On Foods is proud to support Small Business Week.

Come see us for all of your local shopping needs.

Open 7 days a week: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Find us at the Railyard Mall (Garcia Street)

Office Supplies | Custom Printing 250 378 6882 | 250 378 6808

www.merrittprinting.ca | 1951 Garcia Street

Merritt is Proud to Support Small Businesses in the Nicola Valley To celebrate Small Business Week in British Columbia from Oct. 21 to 26, Merritt City Council wants to thank all our local small businesses in Merritt. Small businesses in Merritt provide valuable services and products to our local citizens. From specialty clothing stores to local mechanics– Merritt is pleased to have each of you doing business here in the beautiful Nicola Valley.

Local small businesses are at the heart of every community. They provide jobs and services to people living in our city, and that keeps local dollars and people here. According to Small Business BC, around 98 per cent of all businesses in British Columbia are small businesses. Of these, about 79 per cent are micro-businesses with fewer than five employees. In 2016, British Columbia’s small business sector generated approximately 34 per cent of provincial GDP, above the Canadian average of 31 per cent and second

only to Alberta. Our Merritt local small businesses sponsor our sports teams and community events, encourage local production. We couldn’t ask for a more community-oriented group and they deserve our support. This week, the City of Merritt encourages you to visit a local business which you have never been to before and you might be surprised of what they have in store.

If owning a small business is of interest, we encourage you to reach out to City Hall for business resources and support. City Staff will be able to put you in contact with the right resources and let you know of upcoming business support workshops and available grants. The more businesses we have the more options our citizens have, and the more options we have the more businesses will open and the more our local economy will grow –that’s the virtuous circle that we can all help to create.

www.merritt.ca info@merritt.ca 250-378-4224

250-378-5564

Awards & Trophies Promotional Products Branded Apparel Engraving .....

•Badges •Name Tags •Signs•Trophies •Awards • Plagues •Glassware Sublimation Printing.....

•Water Bottles •Bags•Mugs•Puzzles •Coasters •Mouse Pads

22 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

October 17, 2019

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

5 simple ways to build continuous improvement into your business No matter how well you do what you do, someday somebody is going to come along and try to do it better. That’s the nature of competition. To beat them to the punch, you need to find that better way first.

How? By continuously tackling the waste and inefficiency lurking in your business.

Figuring out how to make your company leaner and more productive demands a continuous improvement mindset—a way of looking at your business every day and seeking opportunities to do things better, smarter and more efficiently. While you may not be able to control external factors like the exchange rate or the price of oil, you can always keep fine-tuning your operations.

“Continuous improvement is a philosophy,” says BDC Business Consultant Josh Ramsbottom. “It’s about how you relate to your business day in and day out. To make improvements, you may want to apply practices like lean management and value stream mapping—there are any number of approaches and tools. But what’s driving that activity is your continuous improvement mindset.”

Here are five tips for making continuous improvement part of your standard operating procedures.

1. Take stock of where you are To see where you can make your business more efficient, you first have to take a step back and look at what you’re doing. Yes, this can feel like you’re taking time away from other important things—but the perspective

you get from that pause will pay off down the road. Take the time to really look at your systems and gauge which are working well and which aren’t.

Mirror Vintage Your Looking Glass to the Past!

Mirror Vintage is happily at home in one of Merritt’s oldest buildings. The store at 1798 Voght Street began its years of service in 1928 as the Yuen On Lung general store, owned and operated by the Toy Family, who provided goods to the community for more than 70 years before gaining new life as a vintage, antique, gift and home decor store in 2014.

When you support small businesses you are supporting entrepreneurs and fellow members of your community by continuing a nearly century old tradition of shopping local and keeping the downtown core a vibrant place.

2. Tap into your team Your people are directly in touch with how things work in your business. So make the effort to visit them in their work environments and ask for their take on operations—good or bad. Never underestimate the wealth of knowledge they have to share.

3. Look for quick wins Don’t start by trying to save a million dollars overnight. Small, incremental changes can give you quick wins—without disrupting your operations or demanding a huge amount of effort.

4. Don’t change for change’s sake This sounds obvious, but at best, this “throwing stuff at the wall” approach simply does nothing. At worst, it can damage your culture and your bottom line. Understand why you’re doing what you’re doing—and make sure your team does, too.

Traipke k in time a t Bac

Thank you for supporting us during Small Business Week and every week.

250-378-7634 • 1798 Voght St. Merritt, BC

Having a plan, monitoring its progress, and knowing when to make changes is the key to achieving your goals.

Call me today for a FREE, no obligation consultation.

5. Never stop It’s called “continuous” improvement for a reason.

Be kind to yourself Ramsbottom’s last bit of advice is to be kind to yourself. You’ve built a good business.

Staying on the lookout for ways to improve it doesn’t mean you’re doing things wrong.

s ’ y n John

David L. Brown, RRC

Financial Consultant

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® The global symbold of excellence in financial planning.

Ph: 250.315.0241

David.Brown@investorsgroup.com Investors Group Financial Services Inc.

A well thought out plan for your financial future is an integral part of building the life you want for yourself and your family.

ON THE

REZ

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP: Status Gas & Diesel, Pizza, Breakfast Bagels, Breakfast Wraps, Bakery, Deli, Subs, Blankets, Giftware, etc.

DAILY SPECIALS MONDAY TO FRIDAY!

Hours: Mon. to Fri.: 6 am - 9 pm, Weekends & Holidays: 7 am - 9 pm

TAKE OUT OR PICK UP PIZZA: 250-315-0087 • 154 HWY 8 WEST, MERRITT, BC • 250-378-9557

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 23

www.merrittherald.com

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK OCTOBER 21 - 26, 2019

Communities don’t just happen. They are built. They are supported. They are celebrated.

Community Futures Nicola Valley recognizes the contributions and achievements of Merritt Small Businesses which is why we invite you to participate in Small Business Week 2019!

Community Futures Nicola Valley and partners are delivering free or low cost workshops and seminars in our Community to help maximize your knowledge and to assist in growing your business!

THE FINANCIAL SIDE OF A BUSINESS STRUCTURE Hosted By: Community Futures Nicola Valley Faciliated By: Carrie Ware Carrie Ware from Carrie Ware & Company Inc, will be answering all your questions regarding the financial side of a business structure. She will be talking about the advantages and disadvantages of sole proprietorship, partnership and incorporation because each business form comes with different tax consequences, and you will want to make sure to choose the structure that most closely matches your business’s needs.

Monday October 21, 2019 at 6pm to 8pm in the Community Room – City Hall, 2185 Voght St., Merritt

GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR INTERNATIONAL GROWTH - WEBINAR

COMMUNITY BBQ

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OPEN HOUSE

Hosted by: Community Futures Nicola Valley Hot dogs donated by the Humble Hobo & Breathebikes

Hosted By: Merritt & District Chamber of Commerce

To celebrate Small Business Week, Community Futures Nicola Valley invites you to attend our Community BBQ. Hot dogs will be provided by Tina Barlow from the Humble Hobo and some vegan options will be provided

by BreatheBikes, we’d like to thank Tina and Travis for generously donating the food and supplies! Community Futures will match all donations and the proceeds will go towards supporting a local non-profit organization.

Join us on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at 11:00 am1:30 pm at Community Futures Parking Lot – 2185B Voght St., Merritt

FREE TAX HELP FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS

Hosted By: Small Business BC Faciliated By: Allison Boulton

Hosted by: Community Futures Nicola Valley Facilitated By: Judi Head, Canada Revenue Agency

If you are looking to expand your sales outside of Canada, there are government programs available to help you. This webinar will explore cost-shared programs for attending trade events, establishing new research and development collaborations with foreign partners, and conducting market research to find new international customers for your products or services.

If you have tax-related questions, here is your chance to get them answered! Our information session held by a CRA professional will help you learn about: Business tax deductions; Common tax errors; Helpful tools and services offered by the CRA; General bookkeeping concepts and best practices; and How to request an inperson visit from a CRA Liasion Officer.

Join us on Tuesday October 22, 2019 at 9:30am in the Community Room-City Hall at 2185 Voght Street.

ELEVATE Hosted By: Collaborate + Grow Faciliated By: Janice Otremba Go beyond an elevator pitch and deliver an elevaTOUR! We are seeking smart, savvy, entrepreneurs and business people who love what they do and want to get even better at telling others about it.

Join us on Tuesday October 22, 2019 at 11:30 am at Brambles Bakery & Cafe - 2151 Quilchena Avenue

THE LEGAL SIDE OF A BUSINESS STRUCTURE

Join us on Friday, October 25, 2019 from 11:30 am-1:30 pm in the Community Room – City Hall, 2185 Voght St., Merritt

GRANTS FOR FIRST NATIONS Hosted By: Community Futures Nicola Valley Faciliated By: All Nations Trust Would you like to know what Grants are available through All Nations Trust? This workshop will provide information on support for funding and financing small business and community business projects. We’ll review eligibility requirements, eligible project expenses and activities, business planning, and financing examples will be provided.

Join us on Friday, October 25, 2019 at 6:00 pm in the Community Room-City Hall at 2185 Voght Street.

Join us on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at 6:00 pm at Community Room – City Hall, 2185 Voght St., Merritt

FOUNDATIONS OF SERVICE QUALITY

BUSINESS AFTER BUSINESS

Hosted By: Community Futures Nicola Valley Faciliated By: Gold Country.

Hosted By: Community Futures Nicola Valley Community Futures Nicola Valley invites you to attend our business after business. It is the best way to make connections within the Merritt Business community. Bring your business cards and be ready to network with the local stakeholders. Appetizers and refreshments will be served.

Join us on Thursday, October 24, 2019 from 5:30-8:00 pm in the Community Room – City Hall, 2185 Voght St., Merritt

Hosted By: Community Futures Nicola Valley Faciliated By: Una Gabie, Touchstone Law Una Gabie, BA, LLB from Touchstone Law Group LLP in Kelowna will be able to answer all your questions regarding your business structure and will be talking about the advantages and disadvantages of sole proprietorship, partnership and incorporation.

SuperHost® Foundations of Service Quality™ is a comprehensive, practical introduction to the principles of providing a quality service experience. This course will cover: Customer service, communication and teamwork skills – some of the key 21st century skills. Relationships between service quality, customer experience, and business objectives. The importance of front-line employees in service sector businesses. Expectations from the point of view of customers, employers, and employees.

Communication etiquette and best practices. Service recovery techniques. Metrics used to assess customer experience and service quality.

Join us on Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 9:00 am4:00 pm in the Community Room-City Hall at 2185 Voght Street.

Join us on Tuesday October 22, 2019 at 6:00 pm in the Community Room-City Hall at 2185 Voght Street.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH: HUMBLE HOBO

What is the Chamber of Commerce? What are the main objectives of the Chamber of Commerce? What are the benefits to join the Chamber of Commerce? The answer to these and more questions, The Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend their Open House. Come and meet some of our newest Board Members. Light refreshments will be served.

24 • THURSDAY, October 17, 2019

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merrittherald.com

CONTAIN-IT

bcclassified.com

COMMUNITY BOARD

STORAGE

Do you want to list your event? Let us know by emailing: publisher@merrittherald.com Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday prior to publication.

FILM

Nicola Valley Film Society presents “Girls of the Sun” (PG rating) on Monday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. at the NVIT lecture theatre. For more information phone 250-3785190.

MUSIC

A jam session will be held at the Senior Center on Saturday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. Bring an instrument and join in or come and listen.

AA

AA meetings are held every Monday at noon at the United Church, 1899 Quilchena Ave.

MERRRITT SENIORS CURLING

Meet Mondays and Tuesdays from 1 - 3 pm from October 16 until March. If you are 50 and over you are welcome to come join the fun. For more information call George at 250-3786779 or Dee at 250378-5821.

MERRITT SENIOR CENTRE

Weekly schedule is as follows: Monday: seniors exercises 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., cribbage 1 & 7 p.m. Tuesday: bingo 1 p.m., doors open at 11:00 a.m., bridge 7 p.m. Wednesday: carpet bowling 1:30 p.m., court whist 7 p.m., free swim at the pool 9 - 10 a.m. Thursday: floor curling 1 p.m., floor and table shuffleboard 3 - 5 p.m. Second and fourth Thursdays: floor curling (physically challenged) 10 a.m. Friday: seniors exercises 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., rummoli and games 7 p.m. The second Friday of each month at 1:30 p.m. we have a general meeting, executive meeting at 10 a.m. Last Friday of the month: pot luck supper 5:30 p.m. Third Friday of the month drop in lunch 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Saturday: drop-ins from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. with floor curling played at 1 p.m. The hall is available to senior members to use for teas, birthdays, celebrations and get togethers. The games room is complete with a pool table, snooker table, shuffleboard table, dart board, horseshoe pit, library with books, DVD’s and puzzles. For more information please call 250-378-3763.

PENSION BREAKFAST

Conayt Friendship Society Pension Day breakfast will be held on every Pension Day from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at 2164 Quilchena Ave. Everyone is invited.

Elders eat at no charge.

For more information call 250-378-5107.

Volunteer servers and cooks are welcome.

NICOLA VALLEY EXPLORERS

The Nicola Valley Explorers Society’s primary aims are to promote hiking cycling, snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing and other non-motorized trail use in the Nicola Valley. The group aims to assist in the development and maintenance of recreational trails. Membership is open to anyone interested in non-motorized outdoor recreation in the Nicola Valley. For more information please contact Terry at 250-378-

5190.

SHRINERS

Shriners meet every fourth Wednesday of the month. For more information call 250-3782004.

OLD TIME FIDDLERS

The group is actively seeking new members, all instruments welcome but an interest in and appreciation of old-time country music is desirable. The group partakes

in two major outings: the Harmon Lake camp-out along with the famous Old Time Fiddlers auction and Christmas party. The goal will be to have monthly music jam sessions. Call 250-2807385 for more info.

IMMIGRANT SERVICES NOW IN MERRITT

Born outside of Canada?

We can help! Kamloops Immigrant Services is a non-profit agency now offering services in Merritt. We assist all newcomers, including naturalized Canadian citizens, with a variety of services to help you get established in your community. All our services are free of charge for eligible clients. Contact us for additional information at 1-866-672-0855 or e-mail liza@kcris.ca / min@kcris.ca.

MERRITT MOUNTAIN BIKE GROUP RIDES

Join us every Wednesday at 6 p.m. Meet at Breathe Bikes and join a group ride. Rides are approximately two hours where you will have fun and learn new skills.

(MMBA); google bike Merritt and see the great riding opportunities here; use Trailforks APP to find all the hiking and riding trails. For more information email: darchoborne@ hotmail.com

COURTHOUSE ARTS GALLERY

Join us Thursday to Saturday from 12 - 6 p.m. See our current art show or join us for our Friday workshops, different arts and artists, from tea and talk to mosaics, drawing, etc. For what’s new this week at the gallery and the Nicola Valley Arts Council check our website nicolavalleyartscouncil.com, or call 250-378-6515 or 250315-3437.

MERRITT

PICKLEBALL CLUB

Play Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 11:30 a.m. at CMS gym., Tuesday 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., at the Merritt Civic Centre and Thursday 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the CMS gym. Come for fun and exercise, drop-ins welcome. Demo paddles and instruction available.

For more information, please contact Gary 250280-0105 or Ayton 250378-5691.

NAVY LEAGUE OF CANADA

Join the Navy League every Wednesday evening from 6 - 9 p.m. for our parade. We are located at 1755 Coldwater Ave. Jumpstart does cover the cost of our fees and no child is turned away due to finances. For more information call 250280-6944.

THE MERRITT CHAPTER OF THE VINTAGE CAR CLUB OF CANADA

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

AA meeting will be held every Monday at noon in the United Church, 1899 Quilchena Ave.

ALANON

meetings are held every Monday from 7-8 p.m. at the United Church hall, 1899 Quilchena Ave.

QUILTERS GUILD

Regular guild meetings are held on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 6:30 pm in the Civic Centre. New members are always welcome! For more information contact Debra at 250-280-4086. The next “Stash Buster” retreat weekend will be in January, date TBA. Watch for an update.

MERRITT DRUM CONNECTION

TOPS

Are you interested in losing weight sensibly, then you may want to come to TOPS. We meet Tuesdays at the United Church Hall, 1899 Quilchena Ave. For information call 250-378-5225. Weighin from 7:45 until 8:45 a.m. with meetings from 9 - 9:30 a.m.

COMMUNITY BAND

Nicola Valley Community Band practices 7 p.m.

Tuesdays at MSS music

Thurs. Oct. 17

Cloudyw/Showers with showers Cloudy High High: 10˚C 9C Low: 6C Low: 4˚C

Fri. Oct. 18

Fri. Mar. 15

Chance ofPeriods showers Cloudy High 8˚C High: 10C Low: 4C Low: 2˚C

Sat. Oct. 19

Sat. Mar. 16

Light rain Variable Clouds High: 6˚C High: 8C Low: 4C Low: 2˚C

Sun. Oct. 20

Sun. Mar. 17

Cloudy showers Wetwith Snow High: 6˚C High: 6C Low: 2C Low: 2˚C

Mon. Oct. 21

Mon. Mar. 18

Tues. Oct. 22

Tue. Mar. 19

On-site rentals

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Secured

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Sale of New and Used storage containers

Please check out Merritt Drum Connection on Facebook for Tuesday evening dates for music circles and drum lessons.

For registration and to borrow a drum phone 250-318-0963 . We start 6:30 p.m. at NVCAC Courthouse. Drop ins welcome!

care provider to the hospital if you need medical equipment.

NICOLA NATURALIST SOCIETY

Every Wednesday. Doors open at 11 a.m. and games start at 1 p.m.

the start of our regular monthly evening meetings with “Members’ Photo Night”. Enjoy a wide selection of excellent photos of local wildlife, nature and scenery.

Wednesday, Sept. 18, 7 p.m. at NVIT Lecture Theatre. All welcome.

RED CROSS

The Red Cross Equipment Loan depot is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. untll Noon. Please bring a completed Referral Form from your health

Mix of sunShowers & clouds SnowRain High: 8˚C High: 7C Low: Low:-1C 4˚C

Masons meet every fourth Monday of the month.

ELKS BINGO

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION

Hours are 1 p.m to ? Tuesday through Saturday . Come join us Saturdays for our meat draw. Guests always welcome and will be signed in by a member.

FOOD BANK FRIDAY NIGHT BINGO Doors open at 3:30 p.m. and games start at 5:30 p.m. at the Elks Hall.

Crossroads Community Church

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

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Ave. (Corner of Coutlee and Orme) • 250-378-2464 Service Time/ Sunday School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship

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

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

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

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

Seventh Day Adventist Church

2190 Granite Ave. • 250-378-2339 Bible Study: 9:30 • Service Time: Saturdays 11:00 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/ Sunday School (K - Gr. 4) - 10 am

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2451 Spring Bank Ave • 250-378-5603 Worship Service Sunday -10 am • Sunday School -11:10 am

Wed. Oct. 23

Wed. Mar. 20

Stain Glass by

Almerina Rizzardo

• • • • Light rain Variable Clouds High 8˚C High: 6C Low: 0C Low: 4˚C

MASONS

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

7 Day Weather Forecast Merritt, - Thursday, Oct. 17 23, 20, 2019 7 Day Weather Forecast forfor Merritt, BCBC - Thursday, March 14 -- Wednesday, Wednesday,Oct. March 2013 Thurs. Mar. 14

Approved mini-storage

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1750 1 17 7 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

room. For more information call James 250-3157724.

Invites all persons interested in restoring and enjoying vintage vehicles to join us at our monthly meeting held at the Anglican Church Hall, 1990 Chapman Street, at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. Vintage car ownership is not required. Call Ted Lund at 250-378-4195 for more information.

Contents are insurable

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Mix of sunSnow & clouds Light High: 7˚C High: 7C Low: 0C Low: 1˚C

STAIN GLASS SUN CATCHERS NIGHT LIGHTS PICTURE FRAMES

Available at Creative Company 2074 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC Monday - Saturday Ph: 250-378-0813

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 25

www.merrittherald.com

CLASSIFIEDS Deadline for placing a classified ad is 5 p.m. on Monday. To place an ad please call 250-378-4241 or email: sales2@merrittherald.com General Employment

General Employment

Conayt Friendship Society ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (ALCOHOL & DRUG PROGRAM)

This is a part time term position beginning in November 2019.

Duties include, but are not limited to: • Complete intakes for new clients. • Maintain records of clients and calendar of visits to the Alcohol & Drug Counsellor. • Complete periodical reports and statistics. • Maintain appointment book for the Drug & Alcohol Program. • Provide back up for Core Secretary Receptionist • Provide secretarial duties for Alcohol & Drug Counsellor and at times other departments as required. • Provide information to the public regarding the Society’s programs and services. • Ensure confidentiality is maintained on behalf of all clients and the Society at all times. • Other duties as assigned QualiďŹ cations: • High school diploma or equivalent, with some secretarial education training in word processing, excel and other computer applications. Prefer Special Certifications – Office Skills Certificate. • 1 year recent job related experience. • Able to clear a RCMP record’s check • As per Section 16 of the Federal Charter of Human Rights, preference will be given to applicants of Indigenous ancestry.

Interested applicants, please submit a cover letter and resume to: Executive Director, Conayt Friendship Society, PO Box 1989, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 or drop off at 2164 Quilchena Ave or Fax to 250-378-6676 or Email to: reception@conayt.com Closing Date: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 at 5:00 pm **All resumes will be carefully reviewed, however, only those applicants invited to an interview will be contacted.

For Sale - Misc

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INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008. Built with concrete posts. Barns, shops, riding arenas, machine sheds and more. Adam.s@integritybuilt.com 1250-351-5374 STEEL BUILDING CLEARANCE...�SUMMER OVERSTOCK SALE BLAZING HOT DEALS!�

20x21 $5,828.

25x25 $6,380.

28x29 $7,732.

32x32 $9,994.

35x33 $12,120.

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Pioneer Steel 1-855-2127036 www.pioneersteel.ca

Apartments/ Condos for Rent 1 Bedroom For 1 N/S Adult, N/P’s. Heat & cable Included. $625 per month. Avail. Nov.01 Ref’s Req’d (250)378-2954

Legal/Public Notices CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer Employment/Licensing loss? Travel/Business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver.

Record Purge. File Destruction. Free Consultation 1-800-347-2540. accesslegalmjf.com

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Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries

Walter Frederick Evans III

In Memoriam

Marcel Emile Legouffe 1939 - 1999

Walter (age 74) passed away suddenly on Friday, September 20, 2019 in Merritt, British Columbia, Canada.

He was: loving, devoted, honest, dedicated, sarcastic, dependable and unrelenting when it came to defending his principles.

He was proud of his beautiful wife of 31 years, Maria (nee: Dobreci), his lovely daughter, Callie and his hard working son, Zachary. He was also proud of his nephew/step-brother Graeme Evans (Nee: Ralston), for his rise to executive position in the hotel business.

Walter was predeceased by his father, Walter Frederick Evans II, his mother, Margaret Floringe Evans (nee: Mackenzie) and his half-sister Phyllis Wilson (formerly: Ralston) (nee: Johnson).

Walter’s prominent Vancouver pioneer family is recognized by the two cornerstones at Christ Church Cathedral in Vancouver and by the memorial

at the Roundhouse in Yaletown. Engine 374 arrived amidst great fanfare with his great grandfather at the throttle.

Walter’s paternal grandmother was married to a Liberal - Senator King. Walter was a member of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club. His father (an active

family built and ran the Devonshire Hotel. Walter’s mother hailed from the distinguished Mackenzie family in Pictou, Nova Scotia – descendants of the original passengers aboard the Hector, and as shipbuilders, they participated in building the famous Bluenose schooner.

Walter grew up on the Vancouver West Side. He attended St. George’s private school and Lord Byng Secondary school. Schooling was often interrupted due to Walter’s health so he and his family frequently vacationed in Arizona (where he developed a passion for all things western). Although he graduated from Camosun College with a major in psychology, he pursued his hobby – photography.

Walter and his father constructed a 3 story building in 1973 to house dark room rentals and photography studios, a business that developed into Focal Point - Visual Arts Learning Centre, a highly regarded business which wound down in 2012. Also in the 1970’s, Walter was one of the three founding members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary – he was AUX. 3 - which meant a great deal to him. He felt so good to be able to help with hundreds (if not more) Coast Guard incidents during his 35+ years. In 2012 he received the last of many CG awards. He was a key player in the core group that saved Kitsilano Coast Guard Base and was later lauded for his efforts.

Walter loved his gadgets – amateur radio, CB, aircraft - you name it! From the 1970s to 2000s, he completed various communications courses and never lost a chance to buy something new and “oh so necessary.� VA7 WFE will

 � he had it on low). � �

knowing all types of media professionals. Maria’s colleagues nicknamed him CNN Walter. �  ­€‚ƒ at UBC for 5 years in the late 1980’s. He loved going on calls with members and he developed long lasting friendships.

Walter’s connection to Merritt comes from his father’s vacations. As a young man, Walter’s father took the train from Vancouver to Merritt, and travelled by buckboard to enjoy summer by Nicola Lake Village at the invitation of his family friend, Major Matthews.

Walter’s parents vacationed at Corbett Lake Fishing Lodge, even before he was born. Walter and his bride honeymooned there and subsequently continued to visit with their two children. Corbett Lake was the families’ happy place for more than two decades.

In 2013, Walter and his family moved to Merritt. He loved their log cabin and being in the forest. One of his favorite activities was sitting on the back porch, smoking a cigar and listening to the wildlife or the silence.

He cherished his friends and always appreciated their kind help and advice on “all things country.� He was chatty and as a result he was memorable to lots of folks.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no service or celebration of life.

He will be missed dearly by family, friends and the many people that knew him. „ … †‡ ˆ‡‰Š a memorial bench which will be sited at his beloved Corbett Lake. [You may email WaltersBench2019@gmail.com or drop by the Merritt Credit Union # ‰ˆ‰‰‰Šˆ ƒ ˆ‹ Œ ‰ Ž

May he rest in peace.

There’sMORE more online THERE’S ONLINE KamloopsThisWeek.com merrittherald.com

In Memoriam

Be a part of your community paper & comment online.

He never looked for praises He was never one to boast He just went on quietly working for the ones he loved the most His dreams were seldom spoken His wants were very few And most of the times his worrries went unspoken too ‘ storms of life a sturdy hand to hold on to, in this stress and strife A true friend we could turn to, when times were good or bad.

One of our greatest blessings, the man we called our Dad.

To the stars we miss and love you Dad. Lance, Charlene and Pamela.

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY Children also grieve. Be honest with the child and give simple clear explanations consistent with the child’s level of understanding.

P: 250-280-4040

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

MERRITT

FUNERAL CHAPEL

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

e.

The Celebration of a Lifetime Begins Her 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 Auctions

Auctions

4th Meridian Auctions & Vintage Shop Now Accepting Consignments of Fine Art + we buy quality antiques & vintage items ~ We host regular online art auctions & sell art, furniture + collectibles directly at our shop & showroom in the Cannery Trade Centre 104 - 1475 Fairview Road, Penticton

Open Tuesday - Friday 11 - 4 or by appointment: 250-462-4969 or 250-488-0850 www.4thmeridianvintage.ca | www.4thmeridian.ca

26 • THURSDAY,

October 17, 2019

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 17, 2019 • 27

www.merrittherald.com

Local Business Directory

NEW PATIENTS & WALK-INS WELCOME

GENERAL DENTISTS & T ORTHODONTISTS AVAILABLE IALIS SPEC Call

EXCAVATING

Gary’s Mini Excavating Service

• Small Job Specialist • Dump Trailer Service • Fencing & Post Pounder • Bobcat Service • Concrete Driveways & Sidewalks • Fully Insured

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.

HARDWOOD FLOORING W.S. Custom Wood Floor Co.

Cell: 250-315-3174 Call Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMATES: 250-378-4312

ting a e H & g n i b m u l Nicola P Fully Qualied Tradesmen in..

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.

Service Work & Furnace Service.

Custom Sheet Metal Atlas RV Parts & Repairs

PHONE: 250-378-4943

2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC

MECHANIC

FRANK’S MECHANICAL SERVICE OLD OR NEW WE HAVE WARRANTY APPROVED MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYONE • Tune Ups • Brakes • Exhaust • Suspension • Lube/Oil •Radiator Service • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning Service

250-378-4241

sales2@merrittherald.com

SOLAR POWER SOLUTIONS

Proudly located in Merritt, B.C.

JIM POTTER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE • Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment

CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

Solutions for your tree problems!

EXCAVATING PC - 60

Servicing Merritt, Logan Lake & area.

250-280-3478

S.E.I Sustainable Energy Innovations

• Solar power, battery storage, wind, diesel & natural gas generators.

• Off grid & net metering solutions.

• We handle all applications, feasibility studies and installations.

Call Chace for a free estimate: 250-280-2997

nsGAGE GROUP Geoff Scholte MORT Mortgage Broker

ltens Geoff Scho ltens Scho Geoff ltens Scho r Broke Geoff age Mortg r r Broke ageage Mortg Broke Mortg 936.8250 250.

Direct: 6.8250 250.93 Direct: 2.2865 7.22 1.87 Toll Free:250.93 6.8250 Direct: 22.286 6.82505 1.877.2 250.93 Toll Free: Direct: 5 22.286 1.877.2 7.24 Toll Free: 1.87 59 4.3509 44.350 22.286 Free 1.877.2 Toll 1.877.2 Fax:Fax: Free TollFree: Toll Fax: 1.877.244.3509 Toll Free Toll Free Fax: 1.877.244.3509

m geoff.s@mortgagegroup.co mgegr oup.co gagegr @mort geoff.s ortga .s@m m oup.com geoff oup.co gagegr @mort ff.com geoff.s allGeo www.C ff.com allGeo www.C allGeo www.C Geoff.com .Callff.com

www

250-378-1322

2026 Mamette Avenue

For more information contact Michele at:

• Concrete Cleaning & Sealing • Crack Filling & Patching • Commercial Foundations • Saw Cutting • Jack Hammering • Grinding • Concrete Leak Repairs • Epoxy Garage Floors

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

250-879-2582

➤Schedule your FREE Estimate

Advertising works!

Place your ad in our Business Directory!

we do EVERYTHING CONCRETE • Home Foundations • Retaining Walls • Stamped Concrete • Pool Decks • Basements • Sidewalks • Patios • Stairs

wscustomfloor@gmail.com

TREE SERVICE ADVERTISING MERRITT HERALD

Specializing in concrete forming, finishing, repair & coatings.

Sanding, Refinishing, Repair and Restoration of Hardwood Floors ✰ custom staining and finishes ✰ dustless sanding, eco-friendly finishes ✰ supply and install of wood flooring ✰ Bona Certified craftsmen and NWFA certified professional ✰ free cleaning kit with every refinish.

email: garylsedore@gmail.com

PLUMBING & HEATING

HOURS

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

JOE & SONS CONCRETE LTD.

250-525-1555

PROVIDING INDUSTRIAL AMBULANCE SERVICE & MEDICS since 2002.

Ph: 250-378-2221 • Fax: 250-378-2223 info@millcosafety.com • www.millcosafety.com

CONCRETE

DENTIST

FIRST AID SERVICES

JOEANDSONS.CA

Y our

Owner Operator since 1987

• Excavating • Site Prep • Driveways • Concrete Demolition • Compaction • Drainage • Utility Installation • Retaining Walls • Line Locating • Concrete Cutting

COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL

CLEANING SERVICES

CERTIFIED IN MODERATE ASBESTOS REMOVAL

NOW HIRING

250-378-9410

CARPET CLEANING UPHOLSTERY & TILE & GROUT CLEANING – FLOOD & JANITORIAL SERVICES

www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com TF: 1-877-612-0909

BUILDING SUPPLIES MERRITT LUMBER SALES 2152 DOU GLAS ST., MERRITT, BC

250-378-5382 • 250-314-4249

Lumber, Plywood, Fencing SPECIALS

SCREWS, NAILS, ROOFING, INSULATION, JOIST HANGERS & much more LARGE LANDSCAPING BEAMS AVA ILABLE

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Mon to Fri.: 8 am - 5 pm & Sat.: 8 am - 4 pm

28 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

October 17, 2019

TIPS FOR A WASTE REDUCTION WARRIOR Waste Reduction Week is all about action and here are some small actions that make a big impact.

They may be small but just one metal reusable straw can replace 1000s of plastic straws. What’s even better is unlike a plastic straw, a metal one is infinitely recyclable.

BYOB! Bring your own bag, using just 1 reusable bag can replace over 100 plastic bags per year.

Are you getting your 1.5L of water recommended by HealthLink BC? By bringing a reusable water bottle you can save 1000 single use bottles from ever being made.

Need something stronger than water?

A reusable travel mug will keep paper coffee cups and plastic lids out of landfills.

Did someone say Taco Tuesday?

A meal plan can make shopping more efficient and cut out wasted food, saving over $1000 a year for an average household.

To find out more and take your own Waste Reduction Pledge go to rcbc.ca/events/waste-reduction-week

tnrd.ca | 250.377.8673 | recycleright@tnrd.ca