October 26 - 2023

Page 1

MERRITT HERALD EST. 1905

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023 • www.X.com/merrittherald • www.merrittherald.com

FREE

A first step? With funds now promised to help staff Merritt’s emergency department, the Herald sat down with Mayor Goetz to hear his thoughts. STORY/Pg. 3

MINING THEFT

CRIME PREVENTION DINNER

A mining company from the coast is looking for answers after ore containing gold and copper was taken from a Merritt /PAGE 8 site.

Learn how to keep crime out of your backyard at an upcoming dinner with the Community Policing Office.

/PAGE 11

Want news straight to your inbox? Scan the QR code to subscribe to our daily newsletter.

Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929. Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri.: 10:00am - 3:00pm • Wednesday 1:00pm - 6:00pm / 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

On-call 24 Hrs. a day: 250-378-2141 or 1-800-668-3379 • www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com O


A2 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

Your local RE/MAX Legacy Experts - Your Unfair Advantage 250.378.6941 llegacy.britishcolumbia.remax.ca/ b iti h #113-1700 Garcia Street Box 2257 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 201-1703 Menzies Street

Karen Bonneteau

Janis Post

Ray Thompson

Brenda Thompson

Valerie Kynoch

Sarah Dickie

Jordyn Chenier

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

250-315-5178

204-1703 Menzies Street

250-315-3672

250-315-3377

21-1098 Houston St.

250-315-8377

250-280-0994

1738 Douglas Street

250-280-0835

250-280-2353

2243 Coldwater Ave

Breanna Ouellet REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

250-315-5820

1626 Greig Street

SOLD MLS#174669

Bachelor Suite 1 bath

$117,995

MLS#172707

1 bed 1 bath

$146,500

MLS#174887

3 bed 2 bath

$230,000

MLS#174957

$309,900

3 bed 2 bath

MLS#175260

2 bed 1 bath

$329,000

MLS#174021

2 bed 1 bath

$454,900

2202 Cleasby St.

3313 Boyd Road

ROOF NEW

MLS#175351

4 bed 3 bath

MLS#174513

$449,000

3 bed 2 bath

$449,000

2137 Priest Ave

1611 Phillips Street

PRICE NEW

MLS#171495

3 bed 2 bath

MLS#173693

$479,000

5 beds 2 bath

1640 Coldwater Ave

208-2514 Spring Bank Ave

MLS#175340

3 bed 4 bath

MLS#175075

$559,900

2896 Scott Place

$499,000

4 bed 2 bath

1753 Fairway Place

463 Morgan Ave

2476 Irvine Ave

1571 Bann Street

$569,000

9997 Crabtree Place

ERS! GOLF

MLS#174157

4 bed 3 bath

$609,000

2737 Peregrine Way

MLS#175182

3 bed 2 bath

$ 629,900

3399 Pineridge Drive

MLS#173613

3 bed 2 bath

$681,000

11337 Mamit Lake Road

NEW

MLS#175393

4 bed 4 bath

MLS#174188

3600+sq ft. 3 bath 3 bed

$697,000

3725 Davidson Road

MLS#172777

4 bed 3 bath

$869,000

MLS# 172736

3 bed 3 bath

$1,070,000

MLS#172227

3 bed 2 bath

6 bed 3 bath

$699,000

2259 Burgess Ave

$1,200,000

MLS#174308

3 bed 4 bath

MLS#173904

3 bed 2 bath

$799,000

152 Coldwater Road

AGE ACRE

POOL

AGE ACRE $850,000

MLS#174566

$1,395,000

MLS#174310

4 bed 4 bath

$1,399,000


www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

A3

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Hospitals to get funding for ER coverage The Nicola Valley Hospital ER, which has seen 19 temporary closures this year, will

receive some much-needed funding to combat staff shortages. ties, compensating staff for their time of Health Adrian Dix. “That is why we Jake Courtepatte spent at the hospital caring for patients are taking immediate actions to bolster NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM with time-sensitive needs. In the past, a ‘fee-for-service’ model has been used as incentive to bring in temporary staff, with pay primarily based on the number of patients seen in a day. “B.C., like all jurisdictions in Canada, is facing recruitment and retention challenges that were exacerbated by the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing toxic-drug crisis and the rising number of patients with complex healthcare needs, and we know that these challenges are more prominent in rural and remote communities,” said Minister

the recruitment of more physicians for our patients and their care teams.” Though these new funds may provide temporary relief to staff shortages within the Interior Health boundaries, Minister Dix said he understands that there is more to do. “Through our Health Human Resources Strategy, we are also committed to train, recruit and retain more people into our workforce, including providing incentives to attract physicians working in rural communities.”

Mayor has high hopes and questions for new funds Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz received the news of $7.5 millon to be invested into adressing emergency room staff shortages from a call with Minister Dix’s chief of staff about an hour before the release was announced on Oct. 18. He said that, first and foremost, he was appreciative. “We’re never unappreciative of any kind of money coming our way,” said Goetz, happy to hear that the funding would be on a continuous basis and reju-

venated whenever it happens to run out. With the program still in its infancy, it is not yet known how the $7.5 million will be split between the three communities of Merritt, Salmon Arm and Oliver. Goetz said that he is hoping to hear more details in a meeting with Interior Health Authority staff in the next few days. These funds, however much the Merritt hospital will be privy to, are earmarked to bring more doctors into the emergency room during shortages. However, Goetz said that Merritt’s issue is less due to a lack of physicians, but

Quilchena Canna Company

Opinion -------------------- 6-7 Sports ---------------------- 15 Classifieds -------- 17-19

Online merrittherald.com

LOCAL TOURISM The Baillie House has put together its third-quarter report, detailing the tourist traffic that came through Merritt this summer.

Search ‘BAILLIE’

SNOW REMOVAL Mike Goetz CITY OF MERRITT MAYOR

moreso nurses. “We normally don’t shut down

With snow now falling and in the near future’s forecast in the Nicola Valley, it’s time to break out the shovels and plows and remember to follow the Good Neighbour Bylaw.

SEE ‘INCENTIVES’ Page 5

Quilchena Cannabis Co.

Search ‘SNOW REMOVAL’

MU

T

he B.C. government has announced a round of new funding to help stabilize the hospital staffing crisis in the Southern Interior. The province announced on Oct. 18 that it has committed $7.5 million to bring more physician ER coverage to the Merritt, Salmon Arm and Oliver hospitals, all which have been reeling from a lack of staff. Funds will be used to recruit more physicians in these rural communi-

INSIDE THE HERALD

S T BE

19+

For more information stop by Unit B-1937 Quilchena Ave., Merritt BC or call 250-378-5 420


A4 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

OCTOBER 26

HALLOWEEN

C I T Y O F M E R R I T T I N F O R M AT I O N

Thrills

Family Haunted House OCTOBER 26 Fright Night Haunted House OCTOBER 27 Spooktacular Celebration OCTOBER 29 Halloween Skate OCTOBER 31 Fireworks Halloween Night OCTOBER 25

4MERRITT.CA/HALLOWEEN

I N T RO D U CI N G TH E CI T Y ’ S N E W

UTILITY TY CORRIDOR

FALL/WINTER 2023

Recreation Guide

NOW AVAILABLE! CURRENTLY ONLINE

4MERRITT.CA/RECREATIONGUIDE NOVEMBER 7

|

C R I M E

6PM

Dinner PRE VE NTI O N

MERRITT CIVIC CENTRE

FU N C TIONAL PL ANNING STU DY TH E PU B L I C I S I N V I TED TO A N

O PEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 6 | CIVIC CENTRE | 6PM 4MERRITT.CA/OPENHOUSE

DISCOVER THE ROUTES FOR NEW UTILITY SERVICES

P R E S E N TAT I O N

FREE TICKETS

4MERRITT.CA/TICKETS

Dike e

NOVEMBER 7 - DECEMBER 7

PROGRESSIN G

T H E R A P E U T I C T U E S DAY S REGULAR YOGA THURSDAYS

TWO NEW DIKE PROJECTS THAT MEET 1-IN-200-YEAR MODERN FLOOD STANDARDS, SLATED FOR COMPLETION 2024 (PENDING PERMITS)

4

4MERRITT.CA/SNOW

• WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT • CLAYBANKS RV PARK

Snow CLE ARIN G GOOD NEIGHBOUR BYLAW 2238 REMINDER: All residential owners/occupants are required to clear snow and ice from pathways and sidewalks next to their property within 24 hours of accumulation.

PARK

WASHROOMS

4

MERRITT.CA/YOGA

VINYASA YOGA

5:30PM – 6:45PM

YIN YOGA

7:00PM – 8:15PM

CREATE YOUR OWN

Block l k WATCH H O W

T O

P A R T I C I P A T E

• ASK YOUR NEIGHBOURS TO JOIN (MINIMUM 5 HOUSEHOLDS)

• PICK 2 LEADERS • LEARN & WATCH

4MERRITT.CA/BLOCKWATCH NICOLA VA VALLEY ALLEY AQUATIC CENTRE A

NEW

POOL

Hours H ours Closed FOR WINTER

4MERRITT.CA/WASHROOMS STARTING NOVEMBER 1

Yoga Y

YIN + VINYASA A

REPLACEMENT MERRITT.CA/DIKE

LEARN HOW TO IMPROVE NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFETY AND ENJOY A COMPLIMENTARY DINNER AT THIS FREE INFORMATION SEMINAR

4MERRITT.CA/POOL

SWIMMING POOLS FITNESS ROOM MONDAY-FRIDAY

MONDAY-FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

SUNDAY

POOL AREA CLO OSED MON - FRIDAY BETWEEN 8:15AM - 9:00AM + 1:4 45PM - 3:30PM

6:00AM-8:15AM 6AM-7:30PM 9:00AM-1:45PM SATURDAY 3:30PM-7:30PM 10AM-5PM 10AM-5PM 12PM-4PM

NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2023 | CITY HALL | 6:00PM | PUBLIC WELCOME!

12PM-4PM

4MERRITT.CA


www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

A5

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Incentives could bring in more temporary nurses

Merritt Herald

2022 People’s Choice AWARD

PEOPLE’S

From Page 3

doing it because of a lack of nurses. So what I am trying to find out is, I know it has been announced for doctor help, but can we use that to attract nurses?” One other detail that Goetz would like to see ironed out with the funding is whether the Merritt hospital funding will be ‘incentive-based’, meaning that more money can be offered for nurses and doctors to work shifts here than in other locations. Goetz said that he has heard from the Ministry that Merritt is incentivebased, yet the IHA says that it is not. “So that’s something that we have to get straightened out. Because if that’s the case, then we conceivably should never be shut down again, because then nurses will

be offered ‘x’ amount of dollars to come here, time-and-a-half, doubletime, whatever it is to fill in shifts here.” A base wage, Goetz believes, is not enough to convince nurses and doctors from regions like the Okanagan and Cariboo to come and fill in shifts. “If they’re making that kind of sacrifice, and taking that time to get out there, then incentives are key.” Admittedly, the mayor is not a fan of incentives, as he believes that such a practice can lead to bidding wars among hospitals. However, if that is what is needed to fill the gaps in staffing, then he will begrudgingly support it. The funding is a first step in the right direction to the longstanding issue,

one that Goetz said he is appreciative of after taking Minister of Health Adrian Dix’s word at last month’s Union of B.C. Municipalities conference that Merritt is a “priority hospital”. Despite many questions remaining as to whether this is the first step of a long stroll to stability, Goetz believes that it is pointing in the right direction. “We don’t know what this looks like, we don’t have the bones of the program yet. It will take a little bit longer to learn how this will play out. Do I think that we will not see another shutdown in the next couple of weeks? No, we probably will, until this gets rolling and set out, but after that I expect that we would probably have little to no closures after that.”

BEST BUTCHER SHOP

PASSING SAVINGS ONTO OUR CUSTOMER

WE’RE MORE THAN JUST MEAT

Cheese – Milk – Yogurt – Pies – Eggs – Spices – Baked Potatoes $3.60/100G

$6.50/LB

$8.15/LB

$5.50/LB

DELI ROAST BEEF

WHOLE CHICKEN

BEEF STEW

PORK CHOPS

Local Honey – Jarred Salsa & Pickled Items – Perogies – Party Trays

WANT SOMETHING DIFFERENT - WE CAN CUT ANY SIZE YOU WANT! PRICES IN EFFECT OCTOBER 26 - NOVEMBER 1, 2023• WHILE QUANTITIES LAST

2051 VOGHT STREET, MERRITT BC •250-378-5817

FUN for SENIORS

FRONTLINE FILES

Drug runner sentenced KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

A Kamloops drug runner has been ordered to spend two and a half years in prison in connection with a lengthy police investigation into a drug trafficking operation between Kamloops and New Westminster. Roberto Silos Lupi, 38, pleaded guilty on two of three counts of possession for the purposes of trafficking illicit drugs in connection with a multi-

jurisdictional police investigation that spanned five months in 2020. According to online court records, Lupi was sentenced to 30 months behind bars by Justice Joel Groves in B.C. Supreme Court on Oct 19. Groves had been contemplating the decision since late August when he heard sentencing submissions.

SEE ‘FOUND’ Page 8

Merritt Seniors Centre Association invites you to the

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Friday, November 10th at 1:30 pm at the Seniors Centre, 1675 Tutill Court, Merritt AGENDA INCLUDES:

Election of Officers for several executive and board positions.

REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE AFTER MEETING.

Seniors deserve to be recognized as an asset to society; not a burden.


A6 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

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

VIEWPOINT

www.merrittherald.com

Fall Art by Merritt Girl Guides

Sales Representative/Office Administrator Roger White sales12@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

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

Reporter Laísa Condé reporter@merrittherald.com 250-378-4241

2090 GRANITE AVE., PO BOX 9, MERRITT, B.C. PHONE 250-378-4241 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.

Community members, teachers and students... 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.

Submit your artwork to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured in print each week! Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis.


www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

OPINION

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

LETTERS to the editor

Beginner ukulele class a big hit at library Editor, A four-week Beginner Ukulele Class for those aged 18 plus, was held at the Merritt Library recently. The class was taught by Richard Lepinsky who also started the Merritt Ukulele Circle in early 2020. The class maxed out with twelve participants, each one bringing their own ukulele. Some rented a ukulele from the library like a book, some had their own instrument and a few rented one from the Nicola Valley Arts Council. The class learned a handful of the easiest chords on the ukulele, some basic strumming patterns, and some fun rhythmic songs that can be played and sung, with these simple chords. There was a wide age range in the group, from the twenties to the seventies. A few people expressed interest in attending the Merritt Ukulele Circle group now that the class is over. The MUC ( Merritt Ukulele Circle ) meets twice a month on the 2nd

and 4th Tuesday of the month at the Nicola Valley Arts Council in the Clubhouse Room. For more info contact Richard at richard@richardlepinsky.com. Richard feels the ukulele is one of the easiest instruments to get up and running on, quickly. There is something special about making music together and learning in a fun atmosphere. The Merritt Ukulele Circle continues to bring in new members. The group will play at the Country Christmas Concert later in November. The library staff received positive comments from the participants in the class. The next class has been scheduled to start on Wednesday Jan..27/24 from 6:30 to 7:30 and run for four Wednesdays. If interested, sign up at the library. Richard Lepinsky Merritt Ukulele Circle leader

ALBAS: Digital service tax could have Onlines News Act-like repercussions DAN ALBAS VIEW FROM THE HILL This week, Canada’s Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) released the ‘Digital Services Tax’ report, which analyzes the tax implications of the government’s efforts to tax specific online companies. The tax would target companies that offer services such as online marketplaces, advertising, media and user data services.

John Isaac

250-378-1586

Johnisaac@telus.net

www.realestatemerritt.com

As currently proposed, companies with revenues exceeding $20 million would be subject to a tax equivalent to three per cent of their revenues. This has raised concerns among industry experts and stakeholders. The main problem is that these costs will ultimately be passed on to Canadian users of these services. For instance, many may remember the promise made by the Trudeau Liberal Government that they would not tax Netflix. However, when they decided to reverse that promise, the tax now appears on your monthly bill. This digital service tax has the potential to generate an additional $7.2 billion from Canadians over the next five years. However, this comes

when many Canadians struggle to afford groceries, rent or mortgage payments. As these digital companies are predominantly American, discussions have arisen among elected officials in Congress who are increasingly advocating for retaliatory trade sanctions against Canada in response to the proposed digital services tax. Another concern is that some online companies may choose not to offer their services in Canada, similar to Meta’s (formerly Facebook) decision to no longer allow the sharing of Canadian news content on their social media platform in response to Trudeau’s Bill C-18. Many small independent news organizations have pointed out that

this situation has adversely affected them. During the devastating August wildfires, it was frustrating for many citizens to be unable to share crucial online news information with their family, friends, and neighbours. This frustration was amplified because much of the most relevant local media content came from small local media organizations. The Trudeau Liberal government defends the digital services tax to ensure that large online companies pay their “fair share.” That leads to my question for this week: will Canadians likely be the ones who pay the digital services tax? Do you support it? I can be reached at Dan.Albas@ parl.gc.ca or by calling toll-free at 1-800-665-8711.

#6-2776 CLAPPERTON AVE

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

M E R R I T T

$79,900

F: 250-378-6184

CED

U Two bedroom on good sized pad. Entry room has laundry RED hookup and two piece bathroom that also opens onto front bedroom. Central part of home features kitchen which opens onto dining room with extra nook. Main bedroom at back of unit has a good amount of space and plenty of windows. Exterior has vinyl siding, most windows upgraded to vinyl double glazed. Chain link fenced yard, and 16 x 7 covered deck

Ph: 250-378-6181

A7

From the Herald archives: Oct., 1996

MSS ALREADY TOO SMALL Slated for its grand opening Nov. 6, Merritt Secondary School isn’t large enough to house a higher than expected enrollment. Part of the problem will be resolved with the purchase of two portable trailers. The second part of the solution involves accommodating two teachers who are faced with oversized classes.

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


A8 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Found near Merritt with kilos of cocaine Prosecutor Travis Johnson sought a threeyear jail term, noting Lupi was more than just a delivery person in the operation, but a trusted individual involved in planning and distribution. Defence lawyer, Lana Walker, sought a two-year conditional sentence order (house arrest) plus two years of probation, given Lupi’s efforts to reform his life since his arrest. Court heard Lupi was arrested near Merritt on Sept. 4, 2020, while

returning home to Kamloops from New Westminster. He was found in possession of a pair of one-kilogram bricks of cocaine. A subsequent search of his residence in the 1300block of Kinross Place in Aberdeen yielded another two kilograms of methamphetamine and one kilogram of cocaine. Police found a drug-packaging area in Lupi’s garage and a money counter, cash and notebook in his bedroom detailing a history of

drug trafficking dating back to 2017. Lupi was the last person to be sentenced following Kamloops RCMP announcing on February 2022 that charges had been approved for against five men for a 2020 Kamloops RCMP’s targeted enforcement unit investigation surveilling suspects engaged in dealing small amounts of street-level drugs that were being brought to Kamloops from New Westminster.

Theft from mine a mystery

OPEN

EVERYDAY FROM 9 AM TO 10 PM

We Deliver

#104 - 2101 Quilchena Ave

250-378-0450

19+

UNITYCANNABIS.CA

WE’RE HIRING

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A Vancouver-based mining company is searching for answers after claiming a significant amount of ore has been stolen from one of their locations near Merritt. Lionheart Exploration Inc. CEO and President Len Harris told the Herald that during a recent visit to the Peacock mine approximately 30 kilometres east of Merritt, a worker that was there to do soil sampling noticed that large piles of ore containing copper and gold had been removed from the site illegally. The incident was reported to the RCMP in early October, though Harris said no leads have been produced as of yet. He believes around 30-50 tonnes of ore was taken, worth approximately

CANNABIS STORE

Must be

From Page 5

Arnica Contracting Inc. is adding a professional lowbed operator to their team. The following position is available immediately, is permanent full time and comes with an exceptional compensation package. For complete job description and package information please contact the Arnica team for details at admin@arnicacontracting.com or stop by and see us at 2768 Marian Avenue in Merritt. A screenshot shows a pile of ore at the Peacock property owned by Lionheart Resources near Merritt, hit by recent thefts. Photo/Submitted

$3.60 per pound. Lionheart Operations Manager Chris Delorme sent a video to the Herald showing recently-dug holes and piles. “They’re stealing our ore,” Delorme says in the video. “You can see when you look, there is copper in all of these rocks, so they’re high-grading it.” Anyone who may have any information related to the theft can contact Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262.

Position #1 – Professional Lowbed Operator Excavators, dump trucks, civil construction, utilities.

Road & Bridge Construction and Maintenance

www.arnicacontracting.com

CALL 250-315-5074


www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

A9

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Grieving together over pints Laísa Condé REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

Merrittonians will get the chance to gather around and have meaningful end-of-life conversations over a pint of beer soon. Death Over Drafts will allow local residents to bring two passions together, craft beers and conversations about death and grief. The free admission event will be hosted at Grand Pub & Grill on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 1 p.m. Penny Turko, organizer of Death Over Drafts, said the event is a good way to get people thinking about preparing for their end

of life and not be afraid of the conversations on death and dying. “When we’re serious about facing mortality, it really helps us to say, okay, well, I’m not going to be here forever. What are the things in my life that I really want to do,” she said. She calls the creation of a personalized end of life plan a healthier way for families to walk through their grief journey. “The creation of a personalized end of life plan is the most effective way to have your wishes honoured, to protect your family and reduce

their stress and trauma, and to leave a legacy for the people that you love that will comfort them even after you’re gone,” she said. In her words, friends and family are also able to move forward more easily in their grief journey and not worry about a loved one’s last wishes, as well as focus on the legacy they leave behind. “The person that’s dying, knows that they will live on, they’re never going to be gone. The stories that are shared from friends and are never forgotten,” Turko said. “They take it from a place of this one physical body that’s over and gone to a place

of living on in generational ways for the people that you love.” Turko hopes that anyone who attends the event is able to enjoy themselves. “It’s just a very casual conversation. There’s not, you know, there’s not any rules, basically, except for respecting other people’s opinions, and you just get together (and have a good time).”

When: Saturday, Nov. 4 – 1 p.m to 3 p.m. Where: Grand Pub & Grill – 2099 Garcia St., Merritt, B.C. Cost: Free admission.

PREVENT THEFTS FROM YOUR MOTOR VEHICLE Here a few helpful hints to help prevent motor vehilcle break-ins: 1 Don’t leave purses or valuables inside vehicles overnight. 2 Lock vehicles when exiting, make it a habit. 3 If leaving valuables in a vehicle; hide from sight. 4 Park in a well lit area. 5 Report any thefts, damage or suspicious persons to police THIS MESSAGE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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

BE SURE TO KEEP THE FAMILY WARM & SAFE THIS WINTER

250-378-5104 2151 Coutlee Ave.,

coppervalley@uniserve.com


A10 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Rebekahs honoured for their work OneStopLove Shop

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK XL-7XL NEW LINGERIE ARRIVALS & MAGAZINES

Members of Merritt’s Patricia Rebekah Lodge were the recipients of the ‘Pulling Together Award’ for their display at the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives. Photo/Laisa Conde

sizes in stock

KAMLOOPS: 743 VICTORIA ST • 250-377-8808 CHILLIWACK: 44310 YALE RD • 604-392-9969

Tired of mud? Tired of dust? Ready for winter? We have fresh asphalt millings for sale! They are an excellent alternative to fresh asphalt at a fraction of the price.

GREAT PRICES AND INCLUDES DELIVERY! Our professional crews will also place the millings for you at an additional price.

They’re ideal for driveways, parking lots, etc.

CALL US TODAY FOR PRICING!

www.arnicacontracting.com

Laísa Condé REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM Merritt’s Patricia Rebekah Lodge No. 33 has been honoured with a prestigious award recognizing their exceptional community involvement and their remarkable ability to bring people together. The ‘Pulling Together Award’, presented by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Rebekahs (IOOF) organization, was a significant achievement for the Patricia Lodge as they beat more than 1,000 Rebekah lodges across North America. Merritt’s Patricia Rebekah Lodge No. 33 was established in the Nicola Valley in spring of 1914 and was named after the biblical figure Rebekah, who is described to have a kind and caring heart. Over the years, the Rebekahs have supported numerous local projects that focused on community ser-

vices and charitable work, such as Christmas hampers and Operation Shoebox. The Rebekahs stood out for their outstanding work in Merritt, which was showcased at the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives (NVMA) earlier this year. According to Pamela Ottas, one of the members who has been with the Rebekah’s for over 50 years and five of those took place in Merritt, the display at NVMA was decisive for the win. “From over a thousand Rebekah Lodges in North America, we were chosen for our museum display,” she said. Ottas said that it is a great honour to the Rebekahs to receive such an award. “It represents pride,” she said. “They chose us, it’s a great achievement for our small town.”

CALL 250-315-5074

Need any Plumbing or Heating work done in your home or business?

Allied Piping Services Inc. is a new Plumbing/Heating company in the Nicola Valley, ready to serve your piping needs! We are: Red Seal Certified Licensed in the Thompson-Nicola Licensed in the Okanagan-Similkameen Fully Insured & Bonded 250-550-6487 14+ years experience Read our reviews! Locally owned and operated Nlaka’pamux ownership

Call APS today!


www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

A11

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Learning about preventing local crime through dinner

Merritt’s Community Policing Officer on Granite Avenue. Photo/Herald files

Laísa Condé REPORTER@MERRITTHERALD.COM

A crime prevention event is being held early next month for Merritt resi-

dents and businesses. Merritt’s Community Policing Office (CPO) will be hosting a dinner at the Merritt Civic Centre on Tuesday, Nov. 7, at 6 p.m. For those who wish to participate, tickets are available for free at the CPO or online. Marlene Jones, coordinator at Merritt’s Community Policing Office, said the event is an opportunity for community members to educate themselves on crime prevention. “It will be an opportunity for us to share information about the sort of crimes that we’re seeing, how to prevent those, what are the best sort of things you can put in place to prevent those,” she said. She added that the importance of hosting an event such as this is to ensure that people are able to recognize ways to be safer. “Crime prevention and safety is

important to everyone, it doesn’t matter what sort of stage you are at in your life,” she said. “It can affect people differently, where somebody might be involved in something and they may just brush it off and not affect them at all. Where other people, it might have a large impact on you.” Jones said she hopes those who attend learn something from it. “I’m hoping that everybody can take at least a couple little things that they didn’t know, and we’ll make them feel a little bit better about their safety.” When: Tuesday, Nov. 7 – 6 p.m. Where: Merritt Civic Centre – 1950 Mamette Ave., Merritt, B.C. Cost: Free; tickets need to be acquired prior to the event – contact Marlene Jones at Merritt’s Community Policing Office.


A12 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

Highland Valley Copper 2040 Project Teck Highland Valley Copper Partnership is proposing to expand the open-pit Highland Valley Copper mine near Logan Lake, B.C., extending operations to 2040 or longer.

Invitation to Comment October 23 to November 22, 2023 The Environmental Assessment Office is holding a public comment period on Teck’s application for an environmental assessment certificate, which details the project’s design, operations, potential effects and proposed mitigation measures.

In-Person Open House Merritt

Logan Lake

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Thursday, November 9, 2023 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Comfort Inn & Suites 3713 De Wolf Way, Merritt, BC

Logan Lake Fire Hall Training Room 120 Chartrand Ave, Logan Lake, B.C.

Learn more about the project and tell us what is important to you:

gov.bc.ca/EAOPublicComments


www.merrittherald.com

CEN TURY 21 Moving Real Estate BC LTD.

Managing Broker

(Owner)

250-378-7392

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

movingrealestate.c21.ca

® 250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100

Bailee Allen 250-315-9648

Don Gossoo

Doug Beech

A13

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

Brad Yakimchuk

Jared Thomas 778-694-6804

Personal Real Estate Corporation

250-315-3043 1618 PINE STREET

2399 REID AVENUE

2198 CLARKE AVE

2945 TELEMON PLACE

6377 MONCK PARK RD

#315, 1703 MENZIES ST.

New rancher in good area features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, open concept style kitchen with Quartz counters & spacious living room with gas F/P. In the back is a covered patio for entertaining. Double garage. Home Warranty. GST applies. Appliance pkg avail.

Lovely 4 bedrm 2 bath family home located in great location near walking trails, school & shopping. Home has fresh updated of new flooring, paint, updated bathrooms, S/S appliances, pot lighting & more. Nicely landscaped yard with fruit trees

Rarely available full duplex! 3 bedrm 2 bath a side, 90’s build, central location, long term tenants. Each unit has a large fenced back yard & carport with storage. Close to school & amenities

Nicely renovated 3 bedrm, 2 bath modular home with a full bsmt in quiet area. Open floor plan with new flooring, paint, kitchen counter, taps, door, new Pex plumbing, fence in back yard & more. Great place for young family or retiree.

Spectacular Nicola Lake view home on 1.05 acres with open concept with a walkout basement and detached garage. Home has 2 bedrms up, 2 down, 3 baths, gourmet kitchen, living room with F/P, A/C, sprawling covered deck, raised garden beds, fruit trees & RV parking.

Great investment property in Nicola Apartments. On 3rd floor, is this 2 bedroom apartment with balcony & storage. Large living/dining room. Currently tenanted. Strata fees are $262.94 per month.

#3470

#3454

#3449

#3419

#3476

#3474

$629,900

3383 WILDROSE WAY

$619,000

$649,000

6488 MONCK PARK RD

2540 CLAPPERTON AVENUE

$449,900

$949,900

2425 COUTLEE AVENUE

2643 QUILCHENA AVE.

$195,000

5240 DOT RANCH CUTOFF

NEW New custom built home with 3 bedrms up, 3 down, 3 baths, open concept living, dining & kitchen area overlooks the city with spectacular views. The basement is ready & plumbed for a suite. GST applies

#3444

$819,000

1531 COWAN WAY

Large family home with 4 bedrms up and a 2 bedrm suite at ground level plus 1 bedrm inlaw suite. Huge family room & living room upstairs. Fenced back yard. Great investment property.

#3458

$659,900

Magnificent waterfront home on Nicola Lake! This beautiful rancher with walkout bsmt offers 5 bedrms, 4 baths, large gourmet kitchen with high end appliances, vaulted ceilings, fully fin. Bsmt with unique Tequila room, large games rm, wet bar, 3 car garage plus some negotiable items.

#3448

$2,299,900

2426 REID AVENUE

2659 JACKSON AVENUE

Great investment property. 2 bedroom rancher with some upgrades in the past few years of new shingles, plumbing & hot water tank. Comes with appliances, central A/C, has fenced back yard & storage shed

Great family home in good area with an elementary school just 3 blks away. A 1689 sq.ft. rancher with 2 bedrms & 2 baths with possibility of 2 more bedrms if armoires are used. Large kitchen & dining

Absolute gem nestled in Sunshine Valley of 159 acres. Has beautiful renovated 2 bedrm mobile home with scenic surroundings. Land is perfect for cultivating crops or raising livestock with endless possibilities for your dream farmstead. Has 2 titles

#3466

#3481

#3472

$309,900

2438 COLDWATER AVE

$488,000

1714 DOUGLAS STREET

$1,199,000

2760 PEREGRINE WAY

NEW Beautiful 2 storey home with open concept style main floor with spacious kitchen & large living/ dining room. Gas F/P in living room. Has had some upgrades. 4 bedrms up, 3 baths. Double garage, EV outlet. Fenced back yard, RV parking

Cute and cozy 3 bedroom 2 bath rancher in good area & close to school. Home was built in 2009 and comes with all appliances. Great place for retirees or first time buyer. Nice size fenced yard. Quick possession.

#3457

#3479

$749,000

$498,000

Fantastic 4 bedrm 2 bath rancher with basement nestled on established street on the Bench. Features RV parking, workshop, sun deck, covered patio, Central A/C & fresh paint. Close to school, college & amenities

#3471

$589,900

Nicely renovated 3 bedroom rancher with a new addition on the back of home with a free standing wood stove & vaulted ceilings. Has had some upgrades of flooring, kitchen cabinets & counter & bathroom fixtures. RV parking

#3463

$449,900

1670 BANN STREET

IN CACHE CREEK

1524 COWAN WAY

SL.23, 6528 WATERSIDE TRAIL

Amazing family home features the kitchen at its heart surrounded by a living room & dining room to either side + a sunken 2nd living room. 5 bedrms up, 3 baths (2 ensuites). The basement is unfinished. 3 bay garage

Large family home with 5 bedrms, 3 baths and an in-law suite with potential for 6th bedrm. Lovely landscaped front yard with ample parking for RV’s. Main living with open concept. Home has central A/C.

Quality built rancher with 2 bedrms, 2 baths and1304 sq.ft. in desirable area, features open concept with kitchen, living and dining room. Kitchen has S/S appliances, large center island & W/I pantry. Fully landscaped & fenced back yard with RV parking.

In very desirable area of fine homes, this 9042 sq.ft. waterfront strata lot has great views overlooking Nicola Lake. GST is applicable. Has large buildable area. Call for more details.

#3475

#3435

#3482

$625,000

#3451

$499,900

$648,900

$410,000

1537 COWAN WAY

1413 CANFORD AVENUE

2401 COUTLEE AVE.

Great family home on corner lot with lane access. 3 bedrms up, 2 full baths, large kitchen plus dining room. The family room has a gas F/P. Central A/C & new roof in past 2 yrs. ! car attached garage + detached shop. RV parking.

2 storey immaculate home with open concept style kitchen with Quartz counters. 4 bedrooms up with very nice master bedroom & 3 pce ensuite with walk-in closet. Back yard is fenced & yard is nicely landscaped.

Don’t be fooled by the exterior, this charming character home has 2 bedrms, 1 bath and is tastefully updated inside. Close to schools, dog park, track & river trails. Zoned R2 allows for a carriage house or shop in back

#3441

#3429

3 level split home with 3 bedrms up & potential for bedroom down. Basement has large rec.room with bathrm & summer kitchen with separate entrance. On a 100x118 lot with 2 car detached garage/ shop.

$525,000

$719,900

movingrealestate.c21.ca

$300,000

#3480

378-6166

$529,900

Spectacular Bench 4 bedrm home, quality built custom home with an open design plan, kitchen has Quartz counters with S/S appliances, 3 baths with 5 pce ensuite. The fully fin. bsmt has 1 bedrm, large family rm, theatre room & more.

#3464

#3483

$289,900

$919,900

2651 COUTLEE AVENUE

#8, 1717 GRANITE AVE

Large family home, close to schools & amenities. 3 bedrms above with spacious living area, large kitchen and family room. Has 2 bedrm inlaw suite on ground level. New roof and hot water boilder. Fenced back yard.

Adult living in this charming 2 bedrm 2 bath townhouse nestled in the senior-oriented Woodlane Village complex. Has upgraded flooring on the main and downstairs is an unfinished bsmt. Strata fees are $400 per month.

#3447

#3467

$679,000

2437 CLAPPERTON AVE

2402 CLAPPERTON AVENUE

#3473

Attention investors! This 3 bedroom home is close to schools and on a corner lot that is bigger than most, with a fenced yard. 2 bedrooms up and 1 in the basement. Has 100 amp power upgrade. Has vinyl windows & room for an RV.

This modest modular on its own lot with R2 zoning has up to 3 bedrms with space for gardening and lane access. Could be nice front/back duplex if you choose to build what R2 zoning allows. Central location.

#3443

$199,900

$389,900

2515 ABERDEEN ROAD

Private and peaceful 3 bedrm 2 bath home on 3.65 acres with several outbuildings. Shop is approx. 1000 sq.ft. Has fenced garden area, chicken coop and detached building with carport & workshop area. 2 wells

#3442

$949,900

movingrealestate.c21.ca


A14 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Kamloops This Week closes after over 3 decades KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK STAFF After 35 years of publishing in Kamloops, the Oct. 25 edition of Kamloops This Week was the final newspaper to be delivered to homes and drop boxes. KTW’s sister paper, the Merritt Herald, will continue as usual with a weekly publication. Due to myriad challenges, including market conditions and unrelenting rising costs, KTW

will close, leaving Kamloops without a newspaper for the first time since 1884. “We face a bunch of issues that are outside of our control,” said Robert Doull, president of Aberdeen Publishing, the company that owns Kamloops This Week. “Our paper costs have increased. Our printer went out of business with 10 days’ notice and

the sole available replacement is only able to give us a smaller page size at a higher price.” In addition, website views have fallen by half as a result of Meta and Google blocking news links due to the Online News Act, while lease rates for office space have doubled. “To operate our business, we need a stable revenue base and controllable costs so that we can com-

mit to providing forward advertising contracts with certainty,” Doull said. “The cost half of our equation no longer makes sense and we don’t see any way to solve it. The newspaper has simply come to the end of its business life. We had hoped that we might be able to find a way for the paper to continue as a nonprofit enterprise. However, in the end, it proved to be too difficult and too lengthy a process for us to be able to make the transition and we simply ran out of time.”

Since its birth in 1988, KTW has been the recipient of numerous awards, including being named a finalist of the 2022 Michener Award, Canada’s highest journalism honour. KTW has also won five Webster Awards (B.C.’s highest journalism honour) and has been a Webster finalist numerous times. In addition, KTW has taken home dozens of BC/Yukon Community Newsmedia (known as the

Ma Murrays) and Canadian Community Newspaper Association

awards. In 2014, KTW was named best community newspaper in Canada and in

2014 and 2015, KTW was named best community newspaper in B.C./Yukon.

Baek’s Taekwondo Academy Strength Disipline Cardio & more Classes Mondays and Wednesdays 5:00pm - 5:45pm 4-7 years 6:00pm - 6:45pm 7-12 years 7:00pm - 7:45pm 12+ years Tuesday and Thursday 5:00pm class Saturday 10:00am drop in for all students Instructor: Gary Abbott Studio located at 2151 Quilchena Ave Facebook.com/groups/ masterbaekstaekwondo

604-845-5234

Click the QR Code for online Registration

Ask About a

FREE Trial Lesson

Local and experienced

in modern law.

Legal services for your family and your business. Real Estate | Wills & Estate | Business Ben van der Gracht

250-374-3344 ext 244 bvandergracht@morellichertkow.com

Jacob M. Brown

250-374-3344 ext 264 jbrown@morellichertkow.com

www.morellichertkow.com


SPORTS

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

A15

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

Cents keep it close Cents Q+A: Zach Losier against high-flying Vees Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@ MERRITTHERALD.COM

A pair of losses for the Merritt Centennials could have easily been a four-point weekend on the road, in two close games against the Langley Rivermen and the

Penticton Vees. Oct. 20, 2023: Merritt Centennials 2, Langley Rivermen 3 (SO) Looking to get back on track after a short losing streak, the Cents visited George Preston Arena in Langley for the first time this BCHL season on Oct. 20, who were also hoping to break out of a slump. Beau Lane shone early between the pipes for the Merritt squad in his first start of the season, making 15 saves in the first period alone to keep the game scoreless after 20 minutes. Cents forwarded Nathan Taylor opened the scoring early in the second with his third goal in four games, though

Callie Langlois SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

the Rivermen responded quickly to tie it at ones heading to the final frame. Langley’s Luke Ashton and Merritt’s Michael Felsing each found twine in the third to send the game to overtime where nothing was solved. Cents captain Aidan Lindblad was the first up for the road team in the shootout, stopped by Langley netminder Charlie Tritt, while Lane was able to make the save at the other end as well. Langley was able to grab the full two points, however, scoring in their next two shootout attempts while Merritt’s Michael Felsing was stopped. Despite the loss, Lane earned second star of the game honours for his whopping 47 saves. Oct. 21, 2023: Merritt Centennials 4, Penticton Vees 6

It was back to the drawing board the following evening in a trip to the Okanagan to visit the Interior Conferenceleading Penticton Vees, on the heels of a three-game winning streak. The Cents that took an early lead just over one minute into the game thanks to Luke Melnik, though the Vees proved why they are the highest scoring team in the BCHL with a natural hat trick from Max Heise to

head to the first intermission up 3-1. Zachary Losier returned to the scoresheet with his eighth goal of the season to remain atop the league scoring race early in the second to bring the Cents back within one, before Lindblad tied the game at three just a few minutes later. With the game then tied 4-4 in the final frame, the Vees once again took the lead with just over 18 minutes left in regulation, holding on the rest of the way to hand the Cents the loss. Penticton added a late empty-netter for a final score of 6-4. Coming up

The Centennials are spending time south of the border this week along with the rest of the BCHL teams for the Seattle Showcase at the Kraken Community Iceplex, giving pro and collegiate scouts a chance to see the talent that the BCHL has to offer. Merritt takes on the Coastal Conferenceleading Victoria Grizzlies (8-2-0-0) on Oct. 25 after press time, before battling with the Coquitlam Express (4-4-0-1) the following afternoon. A three-game homestand follows at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, beginning on Oct. 29 against the Vernon Vipers.

1) How do you prepare for a game? Before games I take a nap about 6 hours before the game for about an hour. When I get to the rink I have the same routine that I’ve had for the past 2 years. 2) What motivates you to be a better player? pushing myself to play and push myself each and every night to get a D1 scholarship. 3) Favourite pre-game meal? Chicken and rice. 4) If you could change any rule, what would it be? The fighting rule. I think we should be able to fight more then once. Some times you need to stand up for your teammates.

MSS volleys with Interior rivals Photo/Jake Courtepatte

The Merritt Secondary School Panthers played host to teams from around the Thompson-Okanagan regions last weekend at the Grade 8 girls ‘Paws Patrol’ volleyball tournament. With games hosted at both the high school gym and Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, the South Kamloops

Secondary School Titans came out on top of Pool A, while the Valleyview Secondary Vikes topped Pool B. The grade 7 girls team from Bench Elementary also took part in the tournament, with a successful showing in third place in Pool C, winning sets against Chase, South Kamloops and MVR Middle.


A16 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Vintage clothes, music and more at Resale Therapy

Grace Raskob is the owner of the new Resale Therapy store on Quilchena Avenue, a onestop-shop for all things vintage and nostalgia. Photo/ Jake Courtepatte

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

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

Jake Courtepatte NEWSROOM@MERRITTHERALD.COM Those who step foot inside Resale Therapy at 1966 Quilchena Avenue may feel immediately hit by a blast from the past. Adorning the front room is all sorts of memorabilia from bygone eras, everything from old books, to photographs, movie posters and trinkets. In the larger backroom is a vintage clothing lover’s dream, with racks full of old trends that inevitably become new again. Owner Grace Raskob opened

the shop around five months ago. Though she may have moved to the Merritt area about a year-and-a-half ago, she is no stranger to the vintage retail business, having previously run a business in Chilliwack since 1985. “We moved here because we loved it here,” said Raskob from her front counter. “I have it in my blood to do this, so I opened this store.” Raskob invested the rest of the money from selling her Chilliwack

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m. Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Omre) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

store back into new stock. Quality stock. “I won’t take anything that’s not good or purchaseable. If it doesn’t sell within a few months, then it goes back to charity, or I give it to somebody,” said Raskob about the large stock of women’s clothing

that she keeps on hand. “It has to be that really good quality, and clean and everything, so that people will buy it.” Among the vintage pieces in the shop, Raskob said that the vinyl “sells like hotcakes.” Any music afficianado could spend plenty

of time going through the shop’s records, CDs and music memorabilia. “The posters all sell really well too.” Resale Therapy also sells gift certificates for those looking to buy for those special vintage lovers.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m. Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m. Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time every Sunday - 10 am Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 4:00 pm • 250-280-1268 Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Times: Sunday 9 am and 11 am


www.merrittherald.com Announcements

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER Located at 2101 Quilchena Ave. (Old Barber Shop) Winter Hours Monday: 1:00 - 4:00pm Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00am - 4:00pm Friday: By Request Your Recovery Specialists Meghan Blackmore : (250) 574-4574 Sherry Peterson : (250) 574-4885

In Memoriam

In Memoriam

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

P: 250-280-1701

Obituaries

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

Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries

Jill Fitzer August 20, 1965 - October 11, 2023 Jill Fitzer passed away peacefully at home on October 11, 2023 at the age of 58. Jill was born on August 20, 1965 in Val D’or, QC. She grew up in Lower Nicola, BC and graduated from Merritt Secondary School in 1983.Adventure called, and Jill left home to serve communities across the country with Katimavik. She spent many years in Valleyview, Alberta, where she raised her daughters, worked as a teachers’ aide and secretary at Harry Gray Elementary School, and was an active volunteer in the schools and community. She then relocated to Merritt, where she worked at Merritt Youth and Family Resources Society and Lower Nicola Band School. Jill is survived by her loving partner Dale Park of Lower Nicola, daughters Andi Dupuis of Merritt and Nicolle Dupuis of Calgary, sister and best friend Lori Desy and brother-in-law Marcel Desy of Lower Nicola, niece and nephew Erin Desy and Travis Desy of Kamloops, brother Evan Fitzer and sister-in-law Sharon Fitzer of Kamloops, as well as many friends and relatives. She is predeceased by her parents, Jack and Ann Fitzer, and Uncle Bill Fitzer. Whether on the ball diamond or behind a lakeside beersby peg, Jill’s competitive spirit often shone. Her creative soul lives on in the pebble art and greeting cards she created with Lakeshore Creations, and many preceding crafts and creations that she enjoyed gifting to friends and family. She will be lovingly remembered by many people for many things, including her green thumb and love for sunflowers, her wit, the delicious food she loved making from scratch (especially her and Lori’s salsa). At Jill’s request there will be no formal service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Nicola Valley Community Arts Centre (online at nicolavalleyarts.com, in person at the Gallery Shop (2051 Voght St.) or by mail to PO Box 92, Merritt BC, V1K 1B8).

Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries

Steve Gontar

March 4, 1941 - October 19, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Steve Gontar died on October 19th, 2023, at the age of 82. He is sadly missed by his loving wife Pat, daughter Kelly (Matt), as well as many other relatives and friends. He is predeceased by his brother Paul and sister Mary Woods. Steve enjoyed looking after his vehicles and admiring classic cars. Most holidays and vacations were spent on road trips to visit with family. Sometimes this involved adventures on bumpy dirt roads. Steve’s fiddle and guitar playing was much appreciated at the seniors’ facilities in Merritt as well as at many local venues. He was always there to lend a helping hand. There will be no formal service by request.

Obituaries

Obituaries

Obituaries In loving I oving mem memoryy of f

Announcements

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023 Obituaries

A17

Obituaries

You are invited to a in honor of

Celebration Of Life

HOWARD JAMES FOLLINGTON on October 28, 2023 from 1-3 pm at Royal Canadian Legion Branch #96 at 1940 Quilchena Ave., Merritt. Coffee, tea and snacks will be served.

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Success for ALL Learners, Today and Tomorrow

CURRENT JOB OPPORTUNITIES We are currently inviting applications for the position(s) of:

POSITION

JOB CODE

CLOSING DATE

Early Childhood Educator Relief ECE (StrongStart and Seamless Day Kindergarten) Relief Education Assistant Noon Hour Supervisor - Merritt Central Relief Secretary Relief Custodian Relief Bus Driver

3618021 3596060

Open Until Filled Open Until Filled

3259613 3612560 3256003 3259601 3255978

Ongoing Open Until Filled Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing

Qualified candidates are invited to apply online at https://www.makeafuture.ca/bcschools-and-districts/nicola-similkameen-school-district-no-58/. All applicants must provide a cover letter and resume outlining relevant background and work experience and three (3) professional references for each position they want to be considered .

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Obituaries

Peter Schurmann

Septenber 7, 1957 - October 18, 2023 Pete passed away suddenly and leaves to mourn him his wife Laurna Ashe, his sons; Garrett and Kyle, and granddaughter Luna. As well as his siblings and step children. Celebration of life will be October 28 at the United Church Hall at 1:00 pm

is seeking a Full time Auto Service Manager for a reputable company in Merritt. This job entails leading a team of Auto service workers to provide quality customer service. This position requires knowledge of the automotive parts and service industry. If you have excellent communication skills, an outgoing personality, are results oriented, and a natural leader, apply to jobs@okanaganstaffing.com Competitive salary and benefits negotiable depending on experience. Further details for this job posting at https://www.okanaganstaffing.com/job-seeker-services/ job-openings/


A18 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023 Help Wanted

Help Wanted

www.merrittherald.com

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

UNCERTIFIED TEACHERS TEACHING ON CALL – MERRITT Job Posting No: 3614758

School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) serves the two communities of Merritt and Princeton, six First Nations Bands, the Métis community, and the Conayt Friendship Society. In our district, we recognize that we learn, teach and work on the ancestral, traditional and unceded territories of the Nle?eKepmx and Syilx people, and we acknowledge our Métis communities and their contributions to the Aboriginal ways of being, knowing and doing. The mountains, lakes and valleys within the district make it a natural setting for fabulous, year-round outdoor activities. We offer a warm small-town atmosphere where relationships are fundamental to our success. Merritt, where the office is located, is in the Nicola Valley and is the hub of a highway system that links Kamloops, Kelowna, and the Lower Mainland. Ranching, forestry, health, local government, and tourism are the major industries in the valley. Our Strategic Plan has a “Success for ALL Learners” focus, supported by a dedicated staff, engaged stakeholders and partners who share a genuine commitment to the district. The district offers rich programming to just over 2075 students, 48% of whom are Indigenous. We are proud of our ongoing work towards Truth and Reconciliation. School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) is accepting applications for UNCERTIFIED Teachers Teaching on Call. The district is seeking highly skilled and dynamic individuals to join our list of Casual, Uncertified Teachers Teaching on Call. Preference will be given to individuals with a demonstrated work history or volunteer experience working with children and youth. Required qualifications and training include: • Bachelor’s degree or other post-secondary education • Recent successful teaching experience and/or training preferred • Effective interpersonal and communication skills • Demonstrated interest in working with children and youth School District 58 is working to ensure an inclusive, diverse, and representative workforce. Successful candidates will recognize that consistent with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the BC Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, employment practices and procedures at all levels must reflect and demonstrate an understanding of, and response to, a diverse population. Interested applicants should go to our district website at ww.sd58.bc.ca, which provides guidance on how to apply for teaching jobs in our district. Applications must include a Cover letter, resume, copies of post-secondary transcripts and names of two supervisor references (including the most recent supervisor). Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT

PRODUCTION WORKERS (FT/PT)

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

TRUCK DRIVERS WITH CLASS 1 Local steady work

LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS Excellent medical & dental plan Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C.

250-378-6161

Auctions

Auctions

AUCTION

JI M PO TT ER

MERRITT TREE SERVIC

E

ifi ed fa lle r • Fu lly in su re d, ce rt • W SB C co ve re d se ss m en t • Da ng er ou s tr ee as EE Estimate ➤Schedule your FR

78-4212 CALL JIM at 250tr-3 ee problems!

Solutions for your

ON-SITE • MOVING SALE • SORRENTO SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28th - 9 am (starts closing)

ONLINE TIMED AUCTION - ** REGISTER/BID NOW ** MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS • RECORDING STUDIO EQUIPMENT TRACTOR • SIDE X SIDE • TOOLS & MORE!! Large Selection of Musical Equipment incl. Drums, Guitars, Amps, Speakers, Mixers, Stands, Cables, Lights, Signs, Beer Fridge, Gaming Chair, Plus More!! Vintage McCormick Farmall Tractor, Hay Wagon, Rhino Side x Side ATV, Riding Mower, Yamaha Wave Runner, Cement Mixer, 4 Post Hoist, Golf Cart, Unsinkable Boat, Canoe & Kayaks, Vintage Marine Collectables, LED Grow Lights, Anvil, Vintage Coke Machine, Hand Tools, Shelving, Air Compressor, Rolling Toolboxes, Plus Much More!!

Viewing - On-Site - 877 Armentieres Rd, Sorrento (turn on Buckley Rd off Highway)

Thu/Fri (Oct 26/27) - 9 am - 4 pm Bid Online or Absentee Bids Accepted 3311 - 28 Avenue, Vernon • Subject to additions & deletions

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

DODDS AUCTION 250-545-3259

Legal/Public Notices By virtue of the Warehouseman's Lien Act, we will sell the stored goods of the following to recover costs of unpaid storage.

Applications will be reviewed, and hiring will occur on an ongoing basis.

Amount owing $614.75

Murray Lane - Unit# 12C

You Want It We’ve Got It Find Whatever You’re Looking for in the Classifieds.

Marilyn Fredrick- Unit# 9

@MerrittHerald @KamThisWeek

TREE SERVICE

s

Dodd

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the volume of applications received, the district is unable to provide commentary or feedback regarding an applicant’s qualifications/application, nor are we able to provide career advice/consultation.

Follow us

Local

GET YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED! This is a full colour business card size space on a 1, 3, 6 month or more contract.

IF YOU’RE READING THIS, THEN YOU KNOW IT WORKS! Call Roger or Theresa to reserve your spot at 250-378-4241

Amount owing $434.25

Robina Moyes - Unit# 51

Amount owing $628.75 These personal and household effects will be sold by either public or private auction on or after November 9, 2023 R. Hack Mini Storage, 2865 Pooley Ave., Merritt 250-315-8079.

ADVERTISING

Check Out Our Website: vancourier.com merrittherald.com http://classified.van.net


www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

A19

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LICENSED CANNABIS

WINE & BEER SUPPLIES e order Now we offer onlin re benefits mo t ge y, e code to pa

Us

ients uipment & ingred • Wine and beer eq rons etc. ap els ks, barrels, tow Unique wine art, rac m 4p 10 am Open Tue. to Sat.:

supplies.com sit: www.winebeer

Vi

Ave. 2152A Quilchena

778-661-0731

FINANCIAL

Quilchena Canna

bis Co.

Quilchena Canna Company

er Bu re Sh ch errie aiai ri lolo e Bu re ch Sh She rrie ri Fin e anc Bu ial Dre er re am She ch Sol rrie Financ ai utio Bu ns Call 250-378-5 4 ial Inc re Dre Sher . lo ch am errie ai Sol utio Bu ns re Inc ch .l ail 19 Sh o Bu re 20 ch ai lo Bur ech ailo She rrie Fin Bur anc ech ial 236 Unit B-1937 Quilchena ailo Dre -76 am 6-3 She 636 Sol rrie Fina Fin utio ncia 236 nssInc l Dre ial -76 Sh am Dre .. am er Fin 636 tion anc rie So s6-3 ial lution Inc. Dreanc Bu amSolu re Inc Sol ch Ave., Merritt BC Sh utio ai er ns lo Inc. ch ai lo sherrie.buBur ailo recech hailo@ M

NICOLA VALLEY LIES AND BEER SUPP NE WI nd crafted Make your own ha d malting. an er cid , ne beer, wi

US

T BE

+

Associ r, Sun LifeLife Assocate iateAdviso Adviso r, Sun

236 236 Bur rrie sun -766 -76 ech .bu life -36 6-3 rec .com ailo 36 hai Financ lo@ 236 ancial 236 -76 sun ial -766 6-3 life Dre -363 636 .com am 236 Sol -76 utio 236 6-3 -766 ns 636 Assoc -363 Fin iate 6 636 Adviso r,6Inc. Sun Dre Life am Sol utio ns Inc Assoc . iate Advis sherrie or, Sun she .burec Life rrie hailo@ adv .bur sunlife isor ech .com .sun sherri ailo sherrie.bu life e.bure @su .ca/ she adv chailo nlife @sunl fds rrie iso rec .com ife.com .inc r.su .bu hail rec nlif o@ hai e.c sun lo@ life 236rrie ds.life .com sun -766-3 inc.co 636 she mm adviso 236 .bu r.sunlif -766 rec e.ca/fd -363 hai s.inc 6a/f lo@ 236 adviso sun r.sunli -76 life fe.ca/f 6-3 ds.inc .co 636 236 adv isor -766 .sun -36 life. 36 adv ca/f ds.i .sun nc life .ca/ fds sherri .inc e.bure she chailoe.c rrie.bu adv @suna/f .burec life.cods. rec r.su m inc hailiso nlif o@ sun life .com sherri e.bure sherrie chailo adv @sunm iso life.cods. r.su m inc hai lo@ e.c sun a/f adviso life r.sunlinlif .co fe.ca/f ds.inc advisor.sunlifeadviso r.sunl ife.ca/ fds.inc .ca/ fds .inc adv isor.sunlife.ca/fds

JANITORIAL SERVICES

SPA SERVICES

.inc

ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE HERE FOR YOU!

d Spa Merritt’s #1 Laser, Botox & Skin Me

SPOTLESS RESULTS s

edial Skin Specialist/ Anastaszia Cash Medical Rem rs, PRP and P-shot. Corneotherapis. Botox, Fille PDA and PDO Thread Lifts Dr. Mark Godley Leader in

m • www.desertdivasanddonsspa.co info@desertdivasanddonsspa.com t rrit Me , Ave nite Gra 250-936-9200 • 1751 , Google, Facebook & Yabbly 5 Star Google rating on Yelp

Touch Touch-Up Office Buildings | Specialty Residential | High Industrial Post Construction | Hoarding Services and om

www.coldcreekclean.c

• 250-525-0262 @coldcreekclean.com

info

ISG ADVERTISEM

ENT

CLEANING SERVICES

EXCAVATING

Gary ’s Mini Excavating Service • Small Job Specialist • Dump Trailer Service • Fencing & Post Pounder • Fully Insured m email: garylsedore@gmail.co

Cell: 250-315-3174

0-378-4312 Call Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMATES: 25

FULLY QUALIFIED TRADESMAN IN: Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.

RESTORATION CARPENTRY

CARPET CLEANING JANITORIAL SER VICES

1-888-679-2136

DanAlbas4COSN

Nic ola Plu mbi ng & Hea ting

PRESSURE WASHING

For more Information Contact us today at

@DanAlbas

PLUMBING & HEATING

PEST SERVICES

FLOOD CLEANUP

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

Service work, furnace service and custom sheet metal. Certified Plumbers & Gas Fitters wanted - apply today!

www.nicolaplumbingandheating.com

sales@integral servicesgrou p.com www.integral Clie service ntrou sg : Integral Service p.com s Group Location : Magazine Ads Document : 300x250px Date : December 16th, 2021

email: nicplumb@telus.net 2064 Coutlee Ave.

TSBC Licence #LGA0002534

Ph: 250-378-4943


A20 THURSDAY, October 26, 2023

www.merrittherald.com

3499 Voght Street,

Helping you is what do.™ email:we rlpmerit@telus.net

Merritt BC, V1K 1C6

250-378-6181

Owner/Broker

CLAUDETTE EDENOSTE Ph: 250-280-0689 202-308 CHARTRAND AVE Logan Lake - $179,00

Managing Broker

KEVIN DUNN

JOHN ISAAC Ph: 250-378-1586

Ph: 250-315-3256

Ph: 250-525-0073

312-1703 MENZIES ST.

1298 DOUGLAS ST.

2764 GRANITE PLACE

JENNIFER KIGHTLEY

$214,900

R WP

NE

MLS# 175039

MLS#172467

ICE

royallepage.ca/merritt

$400,000

$549,000

TONY LUCK

Ph: 604-217-5825 60-2776 CLAPPERTON AVE $140,000 ICE

DENISE DESILETS

Ph: 250-315-8395

205-1701 MENZIES ST. $289,000

R WP

NE

MLS#173323

MLS#175247

MLS#174859

MLS#173760

Cozy corner apartment with ih 2 bedrooms and 1 bath

A great 3rd-floor 2-bedroom unit for a first-time buyer, or an investor

This 3-bedroom manufacturedd home h with a full basement has a ton of potential

This home has 3 beds/1bath on the main with a 1 bed in-law suite

This spacious 3-bdrm, 2-bathh double-wide d bl id mobile home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability.

This home has 2 good size bbedrooms, d and direct access to 4pc ensuite “Jack and Jill” bathroom.

418 DODDING AVE

2625 IRVINE STREET

108-280 ALDER DRIVE

6 2776 CLAPPERTON AVE

1475 COWLEY STREET

1688 COLDWATER AVENUE

$279,900

$644,900

$143,900

E RIC WP

$79,900

$325,000

$309,900

NE

MLS#175094

MLS#174320

MLS#175022

2 bedrooms and 1 bath, h open floor fl plan, ample natural light

Location! Fully updated 4 bed/2 / bath home, breezeway to shop, Fenced private yard. Beautiful home!

Charming one bedroom 1 bbathh apartment on the main floor.

1898 LANGLEY ROAD

2149 NICOLA AVENUE

1565 CHESTNUT AVE

$575,000

$349,000

$549,000

MLS#175168

Two bedroom on good sized pad.

405 DALADON DR

Logan Lake - $599,900

MLS#174570

MLS#174691

ATTENTION! First time buyer & Investors, 3bed/1 bath with large yard, quiet neighborhood.

New lighting, vinyl windows, updated bath, laundry room & 3 nice sized bedrooms

281 POPLAR DRIVE Logan Lake - $439,900

433 DALADON DRIVE Logan Lake - $739,000

NEW MLS#174240

MLS#174706

MLS#175400

Private yard with inground pool and entertaining space outdoors. 2 bedroom & 2 bath

3 bedroom home with 1 bathroom and lots of updates, and a detached shop

This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranchh style residence with a 2-car garage

1555 CHESTNUT AVE

1438 BOSTON BAR TRAIL $569,000

2160 ELLIS ROAD

NEW

E RIC

$545,900

RURAL

P

MLS#173815

NEW

$896,00

RURAL

MLS#175183

2018 open concept rancher boasting 10 ft ceilings, with 3 bdrms & 2 baths

MLS#172874 Outdoor enthusiast alert! New 1bed/1bath cabin, w/sea can with full bath, 10 acres in Coldwater Ranch estates.

2bed/1 bath home on 8.722 acres with ih hay fields & water license, large deck to enjoy the private yard.

5972 BEECH ROAD

2173 TOMKINSON ROAD

6881 OLD NICOLA TRAIL

RURAL

RURAL

$980,000

RURAL

MLS#172350 Amazing view on this private 14.15 acres, 3bed/2 bath home, barn w/water & power, 100 GPM well!

$1,576,000

MLS#172509

Private Country Acreage - 3 bbed/2 d/ bbathh home with large shop, mature landscaping, a must see!!

$2,350,000

MLS#175058

This stunning home boasts a totall off 7 bedrooms and 4.5 baths

MLS#174856

MLS#173021

MLS#172604

This stunning 4 bedroom/ three bath 5 year old home is now available for purchase at a price below assessed value.

This 3 bed, 3-bath home is situated on a beautiful fenced lot with plenty of room for entertaining

This home has 3 bedrooms up and 1 bedroom down, and 3 full bathrooms

Royal LePage Property Management For all rental inquiries, please contact Kevin Dunn or Crystal Chandler. Rental Applications are available at our office AND on our website www.merrittrealestateservices.com in the “Property Management” tab. Phone: 250-378-1996 or Email: proplepage@gmail.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.