Merritt Herald, May 02, 2013

Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905

MERRITT HERALDmerrittherald.com bcclassified.com

THURSDAY, MAY 2, 2013 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS

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HOOP DREAMS - Several First Nations youth as well as some elders were at Merritt Bench Elementary School on April 24 to show students different parts of Aboriginal culture including hoop dancing, drum circles and elders’ story telling. Above, (Front row, from left) Pie Akachuk, Rose Howard, Megan Dunsmore, Niah Prowal. (Back row,

from left) AJ Akachuk, Trisha O’Brien and Sky Akachuk, have a good time as they practice hoop dancing. Craig Lindsay/Herald

Destination British Columbia, formerly Tourism BC, is requesting the Merritt Walk of Stars replace or refurbish the sign currently located at the B.C. Visitor’s Centre by May 15 or it will be removed.

Ron Sanders, presi-dent of the Walk of Stars, was at coun-cil on April 23 and approached council

about working together to fix or replace the sign.

“We just want to get the sign replaced in a timely fashion and get council on board,” he said. “It’s time to replace it or take it down. Of course, we’d prefer to replace it because it’s a terrific location for visitors to get information about Merritt.”

The Walk of Stars doesn’t have the money to replace the sign at

this time and are look-ing for help from the city and possibly the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) or corporate sponsors.

Sanders said it’s important to get past issues the walk has had with council and move forward.

“There’s been issues between us about branding and so forth,” he said. “It’s hard to go forward because there’s issues

slowing down prog-ress: sign committees, branding issues, fund-ing issues. Now, B.C. Tourism (Destination BC) is forcing the

issue.”Sanders notes it’s

not just the sign at the visitor’s centre that needs repair, but all the Walk of Stars signs on the highway.

Council voted to meet with the Walk of Stars representatives and further discuss the situation.

“Whenever there’s anything on the agen-da that were speaking to, anyone from the public can speak to it like Ron did,” said

Coun. Dave Baker. “I’m glad he did, because there were dif-ferences between what he said and the report that came to us. The motion I made was for council to sit down with the Walk of Stars and talk about their signs and what we can do with them. It’s not just a Walk of Stars thing, they put a lot of effort into this over the years and I think the city needs to come to the plate with them

and come to an agree-ment. Ron said that TOTA was involved and that’s great because there’s money there. Also, TOTA is a good conduit for that kind of thing.”

The signs are important for drawing tourists into the down-town core of Merritt, said Baker.

“They’re very important to the city,” he said.

Walk of Stars sign must be repaired or face removalDestination BC gives May 15 ultimatum to fi x or replace decrepid sign

Ron Sanders, chair of the Merritt Walk of Stars, spoke to council on April 23. Craig Lindsay/Herald

By Craig LindsayTHE HERALD

[email protected]

See “Sign” Page 3

Merritt RCMP are investigating a reported carjacking that occured on May 1 around 8:30 a.m. in Lower Nicola.

The victim was loading her vehicle at her residence in Lower Nicola when two males forced their way into her vehicle and told her to drive,” said Cst. Tracey Dunsmore of the Merritt RCMP in a press release.

“The males had her drive to a remote loca-tion North of Aberdeen Road then told her to stop and when they exited the vehicle she was able to drive off and alert the RCMP detach-ment.”

RCMP went to the area with police dog ser-vices and an Air 4 heli-copter but were unable to locate any suspects.

The suspects are described as two aborigi-nal males in their mid to late 30s.

One male was 6 feet, 210 to 220 pounds and wearing a black and blue jacket. He had long hair and wore a ball cap.

The second male was described as having a slight build and was shorter with a green v-neck shirt.

RCMP are continu-ing to investigate and are asking for the public’s assistance. Anyone with information is urged to contact the RCMP or Crimestoppers.

Carjacking in Lower Nicola

By StaffTHE HERALD

[email protected]

www.merrittherald.com 2 • THURSDAY, May 2, 2013

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PORTABLES FOR SALE

Offers are invited for the purchase of a multiple 24 x 40 portable classrooms located at Coquihalla Middle School.

Sealed bids will be received at the School Board Office, 1550 Chapman Street, P.O. Box 4100, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8, sent to the attention of Kevin Black, Secretary Treasurer, until 2:30 p.m. Friday, May 3, 2013. The highest or any bid will not necessarily be accepted.

For further details or to view, please contact Jim Garfi eld @ 250-378-7735.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN)

A COLOURFUL AFFAIR Pieces of art like this sculpture speckled the Civic Centre on April 26 as part of the Black and White Art Show. The show, which featured black and white photography, paintings and drawings among other artforms by local artists was part of the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council’s 30th anniversary Night of the Arts celebration.

The Black and White Art Show has since moved to the Courthouse Art Gallery and is on display alongside scrapbooks detailing the Arts Council’s 30-year history.

Pianist Ken Leinweber, the Merritt Secondary School jazz band, and the Nicola Valley Community Band provided musical entertainment while people mingled. Over 200 people attended the free event.

Emily Wessel/Herald

www.merrittherald.com THURSDAY, May 2, 2013 • 3

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

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• Family business nets awardThe owners of a local hauling company that recently expanded into Merritt are the winners of a national family business award.

DID YOU PICK UP TUESDAY’S HERALD?

• Friends continue search for Langley teens

FRIENDS HELP SEARCHPAGE 2

RUGBY TAKES CENTRE STAGEPAGE 16

NAT’L AWARD FOR FAMILYPAGE 7Nicola Valley’s News Voice Since 1905MERRITT HERALD

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Candidates spar at chamber of commerce forum

Fraser Nicola MLA incumbent and NDP candidate Harry Lali (third from left) answers a question from the crowd at the all-candidates forum on April 23 at Merritt’s Culture Club as (from left) Michael Beauclair, Conservative; John Kidder, Green

Party; and Jackie Tegart, Liberal, look on. The event was hosted by the Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce.

Craig Lindsay/Herald

The Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce hosted an all-candidates forum on April 24 at the Culture Club for the Fraser Nicola MLA candidates.About 50 people attended and

heard from candidates Michael Beauclair, Conservative; John Kidder, Green Party; incumbent Harry Lali, NDP; and Jackie Tegart, Liberal, make opening and closing statements and answer a variety of questions from the audience.

Topics ranged from the whether candidates supported the proposed pipeline projects to what improvements can be done for rural health care to what can be done about semi-trailer trucks on Highway 5A. Etelka Gillespie, chamber of

commerce office manager, said the

event went well and was a great opportunity for constituents to hear from the candidates.“It was tough to nail down

a date because of trying to get all the candidates together,” she said. “The date we did go with worked because we knew all the candidates were in town for the radio forum. A couple of the candidates, especially the ones travelling from Ashcroft, thought it was a good idea to stay in town to continue campaign-ing in Merritt and finish off with a

forum that evening.”Gillespie said they received lots of great questions from the audience. She also noted that the Culture Club turned out to be an excellent venue.“It was our first time doing it

there and it worked out great,” she said. “A lot of people who were there had never been to the Culture Club before and were impressed that Merritt has a place like that.”

Beauclair, the Conservative candidate, enjoyed the process and was glad to take part.“I think it went pretty well,” he said. “There were some pretty tough ques-tions but I did my best to answer them. If I didn’t know enough, I cut it short. People have concerns in

Fraser-Nicola about health care, education, the environment, pack-aging — that was one that came out of the blue.” Beuclair said the BC Conservatives have come out in

favour of both proposed pipeline projects: Kinder Morgan and

Enbridge.“We know people are con-

cerned about the environment and the economy,” he said. “We are pro-pipeline. We think the advan-tages of the pipeline outweigh the environmental risks. That means that industry will have to pay the piper if something does happen. They’ll be held accountable.”

The question about packag-ing came from long-time Merritt resident Andrea Rogers, who is concerned about excess packag-ing in store items. She told the Herald that she has long been an advocate of the environment and is a strong supporter of the Green Party.

“Back in 1956, they would do mosquito fogging and the trucks would come down the street in front and then go around and do the back street,” she recalled. “I would run out to the front street and stop the truck and tell them,

‘Don’t spray here. I don’t want spray in my yard.’ I would hear them turn at the church and come up the back alley. I stopped them again and said, ‘We don’t want that here. Even then I was an eco-logical activist I guess.”Rogers agrees with Green

candidate Kidder, who advocates removing packaging at the store and leaving it behind. Overall, she was impressed with the candi-dates, although she’s sticking with the Greens.“I thought the forum was really

good,” she said. “They all spoke up well and were all really well prepared. I thought it clarified a lot of what they thought about things.”

Kidder was also impressed with the forum and enjoyed butting heads with the other candidates.

By Craig LindsayTHE [email protected]

See “All-candidates”

ELECTION 2013

The four MLA candidates for Fraser-Nicola were on hand April 24 at the Culture Club for an all-candidates forum.

The RCMP have called off the search for the two boys presumed drown at Nicola Lake. However, friends of the family are continuing to search.

• Candidates duke it out at chamber forum

TODAY’S HERALD FLYERS *Selected distribution

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April 30 Headlines

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• MSS rugby stars face Ottawa opponents in Kamloops

“The Walk of Stars have been around for a while and they’ve done a lot of great work. I think people see those signs. They’re different and people are drawn to town. But if they’re shab-by-looking people will think, ‘Oh well, they haven’t been kept up, so what I’m going to see proba-bly won’t have been kept up.’”

From Page 1

Sign of the times

New fi refi ghters learning valuable work experience

Five men from Ontario and B.C. are getting some hands-on experience working as full-time firefighters at the Merritt Fire Rescue Department.

The men were chosen from dozens of appli-cants from across the country for the work experience program, which is one of only three in the country.

The fire college grad-uates will live and work at the station for nine

months, refreshing their skills, completing more training, and, of course, responding to emergen-cies.

Just a few weeks into the program, the men said many of their duties involve cleaning, but that they get the practical experience of working in a fire hall. However, they all have all their training and certifications to be full-time firefighters, but it’s a matter of keeping those skills up while they search for employment in the field.

That brought Devon Taylor, 22, Alex Jeffrey,

25, and Eric Brown, 25 from Ontario.

“For us from Ontario, it’s extremely hard to get on volunteer with a department,” Brown said.

“Out here, they’re recruiting for volun-teers, but there, there’s wait lists just to be vol-unteers,” Jeffrey said, adding there are over a dozen fire colleges in Ontario.

For Justin Tieu, 25, and Danny Bains, 24, graduating from a B.C.-based program didn’t mean they got straight into a career either.

“Even in Surrey,

there’s still a wait list for that stuff. It’s so competi-tive. It’s just as hard to get into a career as it is into a volunteer posi-tion,” Bains said.

The men said the work experience program is a win-win situation: for them, it’s a gateway to a career; for the depart-ment and the area, it’s a guaranteed response and faster response times.

“Whenever that call goes off, your heart starts racing,” Bains said.

“When we heard ‘structure fire’ the other night, you should’ve seen how fast we got our gear on and were ready to go. There were just five little dust clouds,” Jeffrey said.

While all the men agreed the rewarding aspect and excitement of being firefighters inspired them to the career in the first place, it’s a big change of pace for Bains.

“I studied business at college and worked at a bank, but it wasn’t really doing it for me,” he said. “I am more of a hands-on guy and I don’t just want to sit at a desk punching numbers. I’ve always wanted to be a firefighter, so after train-

ing I just came out here. It’s a huge change but it’s an awesome job.”

It was a similar situ-ation for Tieu, who said the office work he was doing before wasn’t challenging or hands-on enough. For the Ontarians, the geograph-ical change was bigger but it’s a chance they’re grateful to have.

“We’re busy all day every day here, but it doesn’t feel like work to me,” Taylor said. “It’s fun and I enjoy it. We might be scrubbing toi-lets, but I’m having the time of my life.”

In their first few weeks, the men learned the trucks, got to know the city and surrounding areas, had some practice using the department’s new hydraulic rescue tools, and responded to calls, mostly for motor vehicle accidents and medical emergencies.

“We’ve had two roll-overs on the highways. One was engulfed in flames, the other had a HAZMAT spill,” Bains said.

The men will gradu-ate from the program in January 2014.

By Emily WesselTHE [email protected]

(From left) Danny Bains, Eric Brown, Devon Taylor, Alex Jeffrey, and Justin Tieu are three weeks into their niine month work experience program at the Merritt Fire Rescue Department. Emily Wessel/Herald

REMEMBERING THOSE LOST Members of Tolko Mill’s safety committee lowered a flag to half-mast over the weekend for the national Day of Mourning on Sunday for those who have lost their lives because of occupational incidents and diseases.


Natural disasters may be beyond our control, but there are ways to reduce the risk and the impact of whatever emer-gency we might face — whether natural or human-induced.

Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs May 5 to 11, encourages Canadians to be pre-pared to cope on their own for at least the first 72 hours of an emergency while rescue workers help those in urgent need. This special week is a national effort of pro-vincial and territorial emergency manage-ment organizations and Public Safety Canada.

I encourage you to contact me, Sky McKeown, the city’s emergency planning co-ordinator, and to visit the special displays that we will have put up at various locations downtown during Emergency Preparedness Week this year to learn about our role in emergency response.

By taking a few simple steps, you can become better pre-pared to face a range of emergencies — anytime, anywhere.

It is important to:

Know the risksAlthough the con-

sequences of disasters can be similar, know-ing the risks specific to our community and our region can help you better pre-pare.

Get an emergency kit

During an emer-gency, we will all need some basic supplies. We may need to get by without power or tap water. Be

prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emer-gency.

Make a plan An emergency

plan will help you and your family know what to do and will help reduce panic.

Visit getprepared.ca for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies.

During this week, I encourage you to take concrete actions to be better prepared. Please do your part! Experience has shown that individual pre-paredness goes a long way to help people cope better — both during and after a major disaster. Get an emergency kit now — it can make a world of difference later.

Sky McKeown City of Merritt

Next council meeting: Tuesday, May 14, 2013Council agendas and minutes at www.merritt.ca

City of Merritt ★ 2185 Voght Street, Box 189Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 ★ Phone: 250-378-4224

Water restrictions WILL BE IN EFFECT

MAY 1 - SEPTEMBER 30

WATERING IS ONLY PERMITTED during the following times:

Basic Sprinklers

Automatic Sprinklers

6 am - 8 am & 7 pm - 10 pm EVEN ADDRESS: Monday, Wednesday & Friday ODD ADDRESS: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday

Midnight am to 4 amEVEN ADDRESS: Monday, Wednesday & Friday ODD ADDRESS: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday

OUTDOOR WATERING OPTIONS: Hand watering is permitted anytime with asprinkling can or a controlled ow nozzle (even when washing a car).

Please clip-out and keep on your refrigerator to remind of regulations!

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I encourage youto contact me, Sky

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Basic Sprinklers

Automatic Sprinklers

6 am -EVVEVEVENENENEN ADDRESS: ODODODODODODD DD ADDRESS:

MEVEN ADDRESSODD ADDRESS

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In case of emergency, is your family prepared?


NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Crack SealingLine Painting Hydrant maintenanceParks Maintenance

MerrittMerritt

ACTIVITIES: Week of April 30, 2013

www.merritt.ca • 250-378-4224

The City works crew will be commencing the an-nual Cemetery clean up from May 5 – 11, 2013. Any offerings or memorabilia that are placed on headstones will be removed and placed at the Pine Ridge Cemetery shed.

Pursuant to City of Merritt Cemetery Bylaw No. 2087, 2009 Section L General:

1. No above ground memorabilia will be permitted after the grave site has been prepared for turf.

2. Flowers may be placed on graves but may be removed by the “Caretaker” when their condition is deemed by him/her to be detrimental to the beauty of the cemetery. Any non-conforming offerings, wreaths, owers, fencing, curbs or other devices may be removed by City personnel.

3. The City shall not be responsible for the loss or theft of any offerings.

Thank you from the City of Merritt Public Works

Cemetery Clean-Up

[email protected]

Serving Merritt with Excellence for over 20 yrs.

LANDSCAPING SPECIALIST• Creative Landscape Designs

• Portfolio of Past Designs• Irrigation Systems

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• Pruning• Ground Maintenance

Bench students excel at science fairMerritt students did

“exceedingly well” at the Cariboo-Mainline Regional Science Fair in mid-April at Thompson Rivers University, in the words of Nicola-Canford Elementary School Principal and science fair co-ordinator Burt Bergmann.

The two-day fair brought 175 students from four school districts in the region to present their projects to a panel of judges.

“We brought 40 kids, and 75 per cent of our kids either came back with a gold, sil-ver or bronze medal,” Bergman said. “It’s very, very impressive to do that well.”

Bergmann said although School District 58 is small, its students typically do very well at the science fair, thanks to a combination of teachers’ passion for the projects and parents get-ting excited, becoming involved, and supporting their children.

“There were 24 tro-phies or awards available, and our district won 54 per cent of them (13 of the 24), which is also very impressive. Some of them are cash awards, some are trophies that go to the school, and we won over half of the ones that were avail-able for the almost 200 kids who were there,” Bergmann said. “This year was one of our best years.”

It was the first year that students from Merritt Bench Elementary School par-ticipated in the fair, and four of the school’s stu-dents said it was some-

thing they would like to do again.

Grade 5 student Olivia Schmid tested different additives to soil to see which promoted plant growth the best. Between the ash, epsom salts, Miracle-Gro and compost she tested, it was the local Good Earth Company’s compost that came out on top.

Grade 6 student Gillian Moore said her project showed that people who play video games had slightly faster reaction times than peo-ple who don’t.

“The gamers had a better reaction time, not by much though. They were really close,” she said, adding that it was only about a 20 millisec-ond difference.

Grade 7 student Morgan Hepper found that people who are related have some similarities in their fin-gerprints. Hepper finger-printed other students at Bench, comparing fingerprint similarity of siblings, half-siblings

and people who aren’t related.

Olivia Boven, Grade 6, explored after-images in the human eye.

“I found out that the longer you stare at the image, the longer the after-image is, and that they come in compli-mentary colours,” she said.

The girls said they saw all kinds of other projects and presenta-tions at the science fair, from a video game on Ancient Egypt to a pre-sentation on respiration therapy for people with sleep apnoea, and that a tour of the TRU science buildings was a highlight.

Of the five students selected from region-als to go to nationals in Lethbridge, Alta., three are SD58 students who’ve been adding to and building on their projects for years: Merritt Secondary School Grade 11 stu-dent Mackenzie Finch, Collettville Elementary’s Cassidy O’Flaherty, and Bergmann’s 14-year-old

son Noah, who attends South Central Interior Distance Education School.

The three also won

numerous scholarships and trophies between them, including Finch’s $2,000 BCIC Young Innovator Scholarship.

(From left) Olivia Schmid, Morgan Hepper, Gillian Moore, and Olivia Boven all won medals at the Cariboo-Mainline Regional Science Fair. It was the Merritt Bench Elementary School students’ first time participating in the fair. Emily Wessel/Herald


www.merrittherald.com


The weeks and months lead-ing up to the May 14 election have been interesting and sometimes even amusing to watch. Parties act swiftly to reprimand or even axe candidates who make out-of-line remarks, but what they’re really doing is monitoring the public’s reaction to comments deemed too far out of line..

Some candidates have crossed the line of acceptable comments so far that that line is merely a dot on the horizon.

Let’s recap some of this elec-tion race’s biggest verbal diarrhe-tic disasters, starting with former Conservative MLA candidate Ron Herbert (Vancouver-West End).

Hebert tweeted scathingly about Premier Christy Clark’s breakfast photo-op at a restaurant in Surrey.

Herbert literally called the pre-mier a “bitch” and was canned from the party for it. Smooth move.

Then there’s a case of just plain foot-in-mouth from fellow former Conservative and Twitter loud-mouth Ian Tootill (Vancouver False Creek). Two questionable tweets surfaced: “Who’s really to blame, Hitler or the people who acted on his words?” and “We men love sluts.”

Tootill would later defend the tweets as, respectively, a question of moral culpability and a joke about “sexually liberated women.”

Let’s just put his cringeworthy “sense of humour” aside for a second as well and puzzle over his choice of venue to express such comments.

In the Twittersphere — a very public forum — conversations between users are notoriously hard to follow or track down later. Tweets are therefore often left standing alone, and for the sake of followers, they should be able to stand alone.

There’s always a grey area as to whether or not they do, but in this case, crying “out of context” simply does not suffice.

Then there’s the fiasco that resulted from Boundary-Similkameen ex-Conservative can-didate Mischa Popoff ’s controversial newspaper column from about a year ago. The Vancouver Sun reported that, in his opinion piece for another newspaper, Popoff criti-cized praising women who choose to raise children as single mothers “without a man by their side” and insinuated that the Missing Women Inquiry is a waste of time for not resulting in any reprimands or dis-missals of police for their investiga-tive failures.

Here is where political correct-ness gets messy. Using the phrase “waste of time” in conjunction with the very sensitive Missing Women Inquiry was no accident, and leaves lots of room for interpretation when it is taken out of context. While it’s fair that a columnist had an opinion — however unpopular — contro-versy for the sake of controversy is the real waste of time.

Finally, Dayleen Van Ryswyk (Kelowna-Mission) was booted from the NDP for comments disparaging land claims of First Nations people and derogatory comments about French Canadians on an online forum in 2009. Van Ryswyk essen-tially stated that she does not want the taxes she pays “out of the nose” for to go to the province’s efforts to resolve land disputes with First Nations, and that French Canadians are “universally” despised.

The comments surfaced in a Liberal press release and no doubt it was a snaky move, but that kind of bigotry was rightfully exposed.

Politicians come in all shapes and sizes, but there’s a few of them who, puzzlingly, just can’t seem to stay away from offering people fod-der to call them sexist, racist, and any other “ist” on the list.

Political correctness is a messy affair, but there’s a reason it’s called “political” correctness. Controversy is polarizing, and it’s the ambivalent majority whose votes the politicos should be looking for. Maybe the phrase we’re really looking for is “simple tact.”

HERALD OPINION

They are whipped and voters suffer as a result

A few weeks ago, Terry Lake accused me of reaching “the deepest levels of cynicism possible in a free and democratic society.”

It was one of the few moments I have agreed with the incumbent Liberal MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson — although I’m not sure I have actually hit the deepest level possible.

Lake was responding to a column in which I despaired at the lack of pol-iticians in this province with the guts to stand up and be counted when they disagree with government decisions and, when their attempts to truly rep-resent their constituents are ignored, do more than smile and shrug at us.

Unfortunately, Lake continued his lengthy letter to the editor by sim-ply proving the point as he listed all the things no doubt included on the “accomplishments to quote to media” page of what Sean Holman calls The Book of Lines.

Holman is a former investigative journalist in Victoria who now teaches at Mount Royal University.

He is a journalist whose work, eth-ics and credibility I admire but, in the interests of full disclosure, he is also one my husband and I consider a friend.

Holman recently released for pub-lic screening his documentary Whipped, an expose into the true role party dis-cipline plays in the way MLAs behave.

It’s something everyone who cares about good government and wants to make an informed voting decision should see and, with any luck, some-one will bring it to Kamloops before election day. Until then, you can see a preview at vimeo.com/64337555.

I had the chance to watch it a couple of times, including the fin-ished version, and saw various former MLAs talk about how they were muz-zled during their years in office.

It’s political correctness for a reason

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By Dale BassKAMLOOPS THIS WEEK


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Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Letters may be edited for length, taste and clar-ity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: [email protected].

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Some talk of votes they cast they did not believe in because they knew to disagree pub-licly, to flaunt party discipline, could result in punishment from their party they weren’t willing to accept.

At least one former cabinet minister talks of how he agreed simply because he didn’t want to give up his cabinet position. Another tells of learning of a major government decision — his government — just

45 minutes before it was announced.

Of the 32,328 votes cast between June 2001 and April 2012, just 0.25 per cent were cast by MLAs against their own party.

Whipped is a strong indictment — but it’s indicative of what politics in Canada has become.

It’s why Holman talks of The Book of Lines — approved statements, facts, highlights and talking points to which everyone must adhere, to ensure the same message

is presented to the media and, through it, you and your neighbours.

Those “lines” and virtually every other decision made by gov-ernment are created in a closed room, Holman said, the only time inde-pendent voices can be raised, opposing view-points presented and various sides of an issue discussed.

Once the doors are open again, everyone had better know the lines are set — and they dare not deviate from them.

Holman holds each

of us accountable, along with the system, noting that, for many, it’s easier to vote for a party and never ask the candidate what they plan to do and if they will truly represent the people they claim they will speak for once elected.

There’s no guarantee — in fact, the system is set up so that they won’t — but, until people start asking the questions, there’s no incentive for change.

It’s one of the reasons I don’t like all-candidates meetings. They’re for-

mulaic gatherings giving candidates insufficient time to stand out or define themselves before the vested-interest rep-resentatives flock to the microphones to ask pre-approved questions.

Holman said he knew, when he started on the documentary, he would find some for-mer MLAs who would talk frankly, but he was surprised by those who agreed to be interviewed and by how candid many of them were.

Their bravery should be honoured, he said.

If only they had found that bravery while still in office.

So, yes, I am a cynical voter, but a voter nonetheless.

As for Lake’s asser-tion the column did a disservice to those who seek public office, all I can say is he missed the point.

The disservice is done by those who only hear the crack of the party whip — and fall back into line.

Dale Bass is a reporter with Kamloops This Week.

Bass: Party line has candidates “whipped”From Page 6

BIRD SPOTTING Members of the Nicola Valley Naturalist Club were out on April 21 at Douglas Lake Ranch spot-ting wildlife including this yellow rumped warbler. In all, members counted 32 different species including 861 birds, including 114 sand hill cranes.

Thanks to Gillie’s House staffDear Editor,

I just want to say a few words about how lucky we are to have the seniors’ complex Gillie’s House here in Merritt.

Every time I take my mom back after her visit home, I feel so grateful that I have a secure, warm, safe place to take her.

She is so well looked after there with the welcoming of bright lights and a warm, clean environment. The staff there are just fabulous, always welcoming her back after her time away.

Walking into the dining room at about 7 p.m., they were just starting to serve juices of different varieties, sliced fruit

and cookies, and were playing a nice movie on their big screen TV. It was such a comforting feeling, like I said, to have this secure place to bring her to.

Having 24-7 care, secure and pro-tected, is what it’s all about. Thank you to the staff of Gillie’s House.

Some people complain about the health care in the province, but in this case I have no complaints. I’m just grate-fuel that my mom is well looked after in her senior years. She just turned 91 in April and I credit this to the excellent care at Gillie’s House.

Millie KirkMerritt

CLEAN UP CREW MSS student celebrate Earth Day by picking up garbage in the areas surrounding MSS. Staff and students were also asked to carpool, walk or bike to work and use only half the lights in classrooms. Participantswere rewarded with ice cream.

HONOURED YOUTH Over 35 community youths were recognized last Thursday for their good work in the community by the local Asset Committee, comprised of youth and members of the Merritt RCMP detachment. Emily Wessel/Herald


NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

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Lali and Beauclair answer the bellFirst of a two part series

featuring the four Fraser-Nicola MLA candidates answering the Herald’s questions.

Next Thursday’s Herald will feature Jackie Tegart of the Liberals and John Kidder of the Green Party.

ELECTION 2013

Harry Lali, NDP

What is your back-ground? What expe-riences make you a good candidate?

I am a former sawmill worker, was a member of the IWA/Steelworkers Local 1-417, and co-owned a sporting goods store. I am a past-councillor for the City of Merritt, have been elected MLA four times, served as Parliamentary Secretary for forests and was the Minister of Transportation and Highways . I have 18 years of experience in government and know how to get the job done, and have a proven track record of delivering for my constituency.

What can be done to bring jobs to the area and improve the economy?

The BC govern-ment needs to support research and develop-ment plus innovation in value-added products and technology – an example would be our forests, mining and ranching industries, with the abundance of resources in our back yard. Government also needs to partner with industry, small business, communities and the tourism industry and

aggressively market and promote our pristine environment, multi-cul-tural mosaic, and First Nations heritage, plus re-instate the “Buy BC Products” program.

What are your poli-cies to improve rural healthcare and edu-cation?

The NDP will provide $45 million to rebuild our rural health-care centres. We will also develop a Rural Acute Care Initiative to improve acute care and emergency services in hospitals across B.C. – this includes rebuilding basic surgery, obstetrics, diagnostics and critical care in rural hospitals. Investing in higher edu-cation is investing in our future. The NDP will hire 1,000 new teach-ers, teaching assistants, librarians and support staff to relieve pressure on schools districts look-ing to close rural schools. We will also provide $75 million this year (and ramp up to $100 million) and re-instate the student grants program.

What is your back-ground? What expe-riences make you a good candidate?

I have worked with timber for over 24 years in the value-added forest industries and have scaled and graded our most precious natural resource for 18 years, on the Coast and in the Interior.

I believe that my expe-rience with operating my proprietorship and devel-oping relationships with people in small business, industry and government, has provided me with some excellent knowledge in engaging people and promoting understanding between myself and con-cerned citizens.What can be done

to bring jobs to the area and improve the economy?

Firstly, the comple-tion of the ‘Merritt Area Transmission Project’, will continue to bring construction jobs and new electrical infrastructure will provide for opportu-nities for investment by light-to-heavy industries;, and to support jobs locally.

Secondly, a small-scale salvage program to revive, enhance and promote the Merritt and Lillooet timber supply areas. This would provide new opportunities for small-scale logging operations that are run on common sense and that do not need massive volumes of timber to support employment. That and the reduction of unneces-sary laws and regulations under the Forest Act that impair the spirit of entrepreneurship from investment.

What are your poli-cies to improve rural healthcare and edu-cation?

The BC Conservatives are committed to shut-ting down the Pacific Carbon Trust that has

diverted nearly 20 million dollars from government services, such as educa-tion and health care. We are also committed to reducing and eliminating, wherever feasible, man-dated bureaucratic pro-cesses unrelated to student learning, thus ensuring more funds for teachers. We will review healthcare authorities in the context of reducing the ‘top heavy’/overly-managed administration and use those savings to hire more doctors, nurses and lab technicians for the front lines of health care in rural areas of Fraser-Nicola -for us, it’s a matter of ‘spending smarter’.

Michael Beauclair,Conservatives


Programs at the Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre

Merritt Civic Centre: 250-315-1050

For registrations on these or any other programs please call:

Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre: 250-378-6662

MASTERS STROKE CLINIC Tuesday & Thursday mornings 6:00 - 7:00 am & now Wednesday evenings 7:15 - 8:15 pm

This “stroke clinic” will help people develop swim stroke techniques and

improve the performance of a variety a aquatic activities. Challenge yourself and

learn to swim! Regular admission.

Enjoy the great sport of WATER POLO Wednesday, May 1st, 2013

8:30 - 9:30 pm Learn what it is all about and get to play

Registration is required & Fees are: Bring a donation for our local Food Bank

RED CROSS SWIM KIDS SPORTS This Red Cross Program teaches children

and youth a variety of aquatic skills such as· Synchronized swimming· Boat safety

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3:30 - 4:30 pm ages 7 - 10 yrs Regular child admission • Must be able to swim a minimum of 25 meters unassisted

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INTERIOR SAVINGS KIDZ-TRI-IT!!!May 26th, 2013 9:00 am

Registration opens Thursday, April 25thTriathlons are non-competitive, safe events designed for 3-14 year olds. We promote

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Thank You

We regret to announce the closing of our

business

Don and Jody Lowen would like to say thank you to the residents of the Nicola Valley and the ranching community for all the support to us and our business.

SPECIAL COVERAGE: UNDERGROUND CRACKDOWN

Local drug myths bustedThe Herald presented

some common assumptions about drugs in Merritt to members of the Merritt RCMP detachment for the sixth instalment of the Underground Crackdown series. Here’s what they had to say:

Children in elemen-tary school have been approached on local school yards to purchase drugs.

“It’s the exception rather than the rule,” Staff Sgt. Sheila White said.

“I remember one incident and in the whole time I’ve been here, that’s probably the only time I’d even heard of a stranger approach-ing someone on school grounds,” Const. Tracy Dunsmore said. “What we hear more frequently is older kids try to sell to other kids in school. What we normally see when that happens is the kids report it and the teachers have all been trained to deal with it.”

Merritt has worse drug problems than communities similar in size.

“It’s not a bigger problem than anywhere else, we’re just talking about it,” White said. “In our vast experience (60-plus years at this table) Merritt is no worse than any other commu-nity. What we’re trying to do is at least talk about it.”

“We are making it visible to have people talk about it,” Cpl. Kelly Bartch said. “If you’re a community that tends to sit back and hide from it, you’re never going to resolve it or get better at it.”

RCMP members are not doing anything to address the drug problems in the com-munity.

“Where to start? It’s not just an enforcement issue. Ultimately, we’re confined in what we can do by the law. That is something that handcuffs our efforts,” White said.

“On one case we referenced earlier in this series, we were working on that for a long time before we could actually

expose it to the public after people were arrest-ed and charged,” Bartch said. “This is one of our priorities. We try to be as open as we can, but it’s a simple fact that we have to be covert in many things we do in order to be successful.”

“It’s safe to say there are always several drug investigation files open at any given time,” Dunsmore added.

RCMP are aware of certain chronic drug offenders in the community and repeatedly let them off easy.

Actually, they said the exact opposite.

“That goes against everything we stand for,” White said.

Dunsmore said keep-ing tabs on chronic offenders is one way officers disrupt ongoing criminal activity.

“We generally find, knowing who they are, there are ways we can get them,” Dunsmore said. “A breach or not showing up for court or tickets under the Motor Vehicle Act — as long as we’re abiding by the law and not breaching their rights, we do that. The members do it every day.”

“Sadly, ‘letting them off easy’ might have nothing to do with polic-ing so much as the court and justice system itself,” Bartch said. “We do our part, and then it’s up to the courts to decide what punishment they might mete out. Whether it’s sufficient or insufficient in our eyes is irrelevant.”

RCMP have influence over charges offend-ers face.

RCMP officers do send reports to Crown lawyers, who then take over legal proceedings.

“If Crown needs clar-ification on something, they will consult with us,” White said. “The RCMP does not charge people — we recommend charges and Crown has the final approval of those charges. Sometimes we recommend a whole litany of charges, but Crown will not always go with all our recommen-dations. We collect the

evidence for them, and they present it. That’s just Law 101.”

People driving through Merritt drop off drugs for locals to sell.

This one tends to be true, the officers said.

“Within the drug trade, there are people who are deliberately sent out to infiltrate other communities and start the drug trade,” White said.

“Most of our drugs come from the Lower Mainland,” Dunsmore said, adding that some-times drug dealers take up residence in Merritt for the sole purpose of selling drugs.

The drug problem is a losing battle.

“Sometimes it feels like it,” White said. “However, enforcement is only one aspect of the fight against any drug issues a community might have.”

The officers likened the battle against drug abuse to other enor-mously complex issues such as tackling climate change or pursuing a cure for cancer.

“You don’t give up, you find another way,” Dunsmore said. “This is another way. If the pub-lic is aware of the trends, what happens, and how to help with prevention, they can help us and talk to their kids about it, talk to their neighbours, and start a Block Watch group that calls us with information.”

The RCMP detach-ment will be holding an open house with the con-tributing members of this series available to speak with, as well as informa-tion on ways community members can be involved in the fight against drugs in Merritt. The open house will run from 5 to 8 p.m. on May 15 at the detachment at 2999 Voght St.


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Fashion takes centre stage at show

It’s time to hit the runway, or, if you pre-fer, to sit back and relax as you watch the mod-els at the Nicola Valley Women’s Institute’s (NVWI) Fashion Show strut their stuff. The event takes places at the senior’s centre from 1

to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The cost for the show is $3 with proceeds going to the women’s institute.

The models, who are mostly women’s institute members, will be modelling TanJay Alia fashions from Kamloops.

“All the models are local and many of us

are big-sized. We’re not models, but we have a lot of fun,” said Judy Fassbender of the institute. “We donate to quite a number of charities such as B.C. Children’s Hospital, Royal Inland Hospital, Canucks Place, Ronald McDonald House, as well as many other women’s institute proj-

ects.”NVWI, which

started up in 1951, meets every second Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. in member’s homes. They have a variety of speakers on agri-culture, health, home economics, citizenship, education, international affairs and more.

“We do a number of fund-raising projects like the fashion show so we can support dif-ferent charities,” said Fassbender. “We also support women’s insti-tute projects in Canada and the Associated Women’s Institute of the World.”

The group also helped purchase a cow for families in Africa, a Land Rover for nurses to travel to help prevent blindness in babies, and built wells in some

The ladies from the Nicola Valley Women’s Institute, shown here at a recent gathering, are ready to bring the newest fashions to Merritt for their annual fashion show fundraiser.


[email protected]

Friends have ball in Ottawa

(From left) Katie Huber, 15, and Kelsey-Ann Ware, 16, tried some unconventional sports during the Encounters with Canada sports week in Ottawa. Emily Wessel/Herald

For Merritt Secondary School Grade 10 students Kelsey-Ann Ware and Katie Huber, a recent trip to Ottawa for a students symposium for sports week was about more than just sports.

The girls said they learned about Canada’s history, gov-ernment, and about people from across the country in the nation’s capital.

“I learned a lot more that I didn’t know about parlia-ment and war and all that,” Ware, 16, said. “I didn’t know the kind of accents other people have. Lots of people from

Newfoundland and P.E.I. have really weird accents.”

Neither of the girls had been to Ottawa before their week-long trip at the end of April, and they said they weren’t sure what to expect.

The trip cost each student nearly $700, but both students agreed it was a worth-while trip that they’d recommend other stu-dents to look into.

The girls said they made friends with some of the other stu-dents from across the nation who participat-ed in the Encounters with Canada confer-ence.

“The friends that we hung out with every day were these boys from

Saskatchewan,” Ware said. “It was weird when we came home, not seeing all those people.”

“There were some interesting people there,” Huber added.

Not only did the girls find the people interesting, they got to try their hands at some unconventional sports. Huber plays soccer and Ware plays baseball, and both girls play basketball and rugby, but during their trip to Ottawa, they participated in day-long workshops in mini golf, breakdanc-ing, and martial arts. which the girls said they found harder than it looks.

“It was hard, actu-ally,” Huber said. “We weren’t doing crazy fights and stuff, but the technique was kind of cool.”

“You use a lot of elbows and knees,” Ware said.

The girls also got the chance to see a National Hockey League game, and although they said they had to sit in the nose-bleed seats, they had fun and learned a lot about Canada. Neither of the girls knows yet what she wants to do for a career, but both agreed they’d like to keep sports in the mix somehow — Ware said she’d like to coach rugby on the side.


Helping Hands grant leads council briefs

On April 23 at the regular city coun-cil meeting, Merritt council approved a $3,000 grant-in-aid to the Merritt Helping Hands Society 4-2.

Helping Hands is a non-profit society whose goals are to educate addicts and alcoholics seeking recovery in Merritt and the surrounding area.

In 2012, they distributed 45,400 clean syringes, 29 crack pipe kits and 175 cooker kits in the Merritt community.

Fast Car charger for city

The City of Merritt has entered into a five year agree-ment for the lease of a DCFC Fast Charger.

The charger will be located at the Baillie House and the instalment cost, which is estimated at between $100,000 and $130,000, will be paid for by BC Hydro.

The charging station, which can charge a car in 15 minutes, will be one

of 13 throughout the province.

The station is expected to be installed within one month.

More electric vehicle charging stations

The City of Merritt has been

awarded a contri-bution of $16,000 towards the planning of four electric vehicle charging stations for the community.

Merritt, which had a charging sta-tion installed in May of 2012 in the Baillie House parking lot, was chosen because of its key location in the

province. The four locations

for the new regular (non-fast) charg-ing stations will be: Wagon West Travel Plaza; Merritt Civic Centre; City Hall; and the city’s downtown parking lot.

All four are expect-ed to be installed within two weeks.


[email protected]


NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

ROME WAS BIG, TOUGH AND HEARTLESS. The people in the city were in a bad situation. Jesus had told them to pray and ee.

One Tuesday morning the Roman army took everything and left the city. The Jewish army thought they had beat them and went after the Romans. Who told the Romans to leave? It was God.

What a commotion in the city. The Christian Jews left early Wednesday, to a small city not too far away, just as Jesus had instructed. They had plenty food, and they had the Sabbath to rest and worship. God had told His followers what to do, they obeyed, and God kept His word like He always does.

The Jewish army thought they had beat the Romans but it wasn’t so. A year later the Romans, under a new leader, came back. Again, the Jews ed into the city for they thought God would protect them because of the temple. However, they had cruci ed Jesus. Now there was no protection.

The Romans let nothing in or out of the city. Things became terrible inside the walls. The Romans broke into the city. The massacre was terrible.

Hundreds of thousands were killed. Some were taken to Rome and sold as slaves. Some were thrown to wild beasts for entertainment. Daniel had prophesied about the destruction, but the priests and leaders changed the prophecy to suit themselves. Because they did not listen, they were not prepared and were killed in the war. The city, along with the temple, became a heap of ruins.

When we look at things like this we see that we need to be careful with what we do with prophecy, the word of God.

In the revelations, God said that we need to be careful that we don’t add to His word or take away. We must be careful not to look at the word to suit ourselves. God said, “I change not. I am the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.”

ROMROMROMROME WE WE WE WASASASAS BIGBIGBIGBIG TTOOUGHH

God the Word, the World

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HONKY TONK MEN Six More Strings performed for friends and fans at Spirit Square last Friday. Ian Webster/Herald


NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Proven Leadership with Integrity•

Committed to Strong Visibility in • Communities

Supports Resource-Based Industry•

Strong Advocate for Healthcare & • Education

Understands Rural Communities•

Authorized by Deb Arnott, Financial Agent, 250-453-9467

Jackie TegartBC Liberal Candidate

Fraser-Nicola

STRONG ECONOMYSECURE TOMORROW

Election Day: May 14Advanced Polls: May 8-11

The Rotary club of Merritt Sunrise would like to thank the following for their generous donations to the recent 2013 Indoor Golf Classic.

THANK YOU

The following groups are recognized for the helping at this major event.The Hospice Group of Merritt, John Allison Productions, The MSS Grad class, The MSS Leadership Club, and Elaine Gill and the MSS Cafeteria group. Individual thank you to the following volunteers: Kathryn Olsen, Marg Sanders, Taylor Lamb, Linda Brown, Shauvon Hagen, and Greg Hodson.

A & D Property Management• Access Hearing Centre• Alastair Murdock & • Company Inc.All About Imprinting & Engraving• Amica Contracting• Ashley Furniture/City Furniture• Aspen Planers• B-100 98.1 CIFM Radio• Balance Chiropractic Inc.• Best Value Glass• Boston Pizza• Brambles Bakery and Café• Brandt Tractor• Bridal Falls Enterprises Ltd.• Canada Café• Canada Western Bank• Canadian Tire• Cascades Dental Clinic Dr Todd • SmithCentury 21• Cherry Inglis Notary Public• Chevron Triple O• CIBC• City Furniture & Appiiances Ltd.• City of Merritt• Coldwater Hotel & Restaurant• Contain-it Storage• Cooper’s Foods Ltd.• Copper Valley Mechanical• Coyote Collision• Creative Company• Crystal Gardens Restaurant• David Brown Investors Group• DCS Auto• Designs by Marie• Doctors EyeCare• Doug Strand• Dr R K Josephson• Ducks Unlimited• Emcon Services Ltd.• Emmerick Excavating• Espresso Etc.• Firman Auto Parts• Fountain Tire• Frank Douthwright’s Mechanical• Garden Sushi • Japanese RestaurantGolden Chopsticks• Golfl and•

Good Earth Co.• Graham & Associates, • BC Land SurveyorsGreat Canadian Bike Rally• Greg Hodson• Hack Electric• Hair Shack• Harrison Hot Springs• Heffl ey Boutique Inn• Highland House Bed & Breakfast• Hitch’n’ Post Restaurant• Home Hardware• Home Restaurant• Hub Electric• Hub International • Barton InsuranceIDA Blacks Pharmacy• Interior Savings Credit Union• Interior Savings Insurance • ServicesIt’s the Pitts Plumbing• Jackson’s Welding• JD Kightley Contracting• Jean Kiegerl• Kolors Cutting Lounge• Kumsheen Rafting Resort• Ledcor Resources & Transporta-• tion Ltd.LNB Construction• Lordco Auto Parts• Mandolin’s Bagel and Coffee • HouseMarg and Jerry Sanders• Mark’s Work Wearhouse• Merritt & District Chamber of • CommerceMerritt Centennials• Merritt Dry Cleaning • and Coin LaundryMerritt Herald• Merritt Liquor Store• Merritt Machine Works• Merritt Movie Experts• Merritt Printing• Merritt Veterinary Hospital• Mill Creek Cabinets• Mobile Tech Computers• Mongo’s Mongolian Grill• Morelli Chertkow LLP Lawyers• Murray GM•

Nadina Logging• Nicola Nordic Ski Club• Nicola Plumbing • and Heating Ltd.Nicola Valley Apiary• Nicola Valley Massage Therapy• Nicola Valley Museum & Ar-• chivesNicola Valley Repairs• NMV Lumber• Norgaard Ready Mix• Otter Summit Electrc• Panago Pizza• Petit Café Diane• Pharmasave• Phoenix Ready Mix• Pine Ideas• Planet Fitness• Planet Hair Spa and Laser Clinic• Posh Pup Grooming Salon• Post’s Fresh Meat & Deli• Purity Feeds• Q101.1 Radio• Quilchena on the Lake• Ramada• Rich & Iris Hodson• Royal Bank RBC• S.A. Thompson Contracting• Sanders and Company Ltd & • Flatiron Construction Ltd.Second Ave Signs• Secure-All Mini and RV Storage• Shaw Cable• South Paw Dog Spa• Starbucks Coffee Canada• Sunshine Valley Mechanical Ltd.• Syd’s Pro Shop and Merritt Golf • and Country ClubTBM Cleaning & Restoration• Teck Highland Valley Copper • PartnershipThomson Truck Parts & Sales • Ltd.Tibar Construction• Tim Horton’s• Tolko Industries Ltd.• Westwood Fibre• Yaki Joe’s Pizza Shoppe•

JOB POSTINGBRANCH MANAGER

Our branch in Merritt, BC is looking for an exceptional person to take on the exciting role of Branch Manager. Our Branch Managers are responsible for the management of the daily operation of their branch. They are approachable, natural leaders by example, committed to providing exceptional customer service based on their knowledge of our nancial products. Formal training will be provided.

Key Responsibilities:• Providing exceptional customer service.• Managing store business including balancing daily transactions, budgeting, and monitoring revenue and expenses.• Recruiting, supervisor, motivating, and training staff.• Performing daily sales calls to current and past customers.• Local marketing of credit and loan services. • Managing past due accounts by completing daily collections calls and coaching staff in successful calls.• Top notch oral and written communication skills.• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills to ensure reporting is accurate and timely.

SALARY RANGE OF $30,000 - $35,000 A YEAR

How to Apply:If this sounds like the opportunity for you, email your resume and cover letter to:Regional Manager, Don Steffanson at don.steffanson@cs nancial.caQuote ‘Branch Manager-C274’ in the subject line. Or you can contact Don directly at 250-317-2376.

LEARN MORE ABOUT US:ebo.workopolis.com/careers/CASH-STORE-FINANCIAL-SERVICES-INC

POWER PLAY Filmmaker Damien Gillis (standing and speaking) and Hall of Fame Broadcaster and former cabinet minister Rafe Mair (seated in red) spoke to about 25 people at Merritt’s Civic Centre on April 24 about issues related to water and power in the prov-ince and how decisions from the next government will affect the environment.

Craig Lindsay/Herald

Independently owned and operated

Helping you is what we do.™REAL ESTATE REVIEW

M E R R I T TPhone: 250-378-6181

1988 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 • Fax: 250-378-6184www.royallepage.ca/merritt

Royal Lepage Realtors(R) are trained to provide valuable assistance to Buyers in the following areas:

NEW LISTINGS

Immaculate 3 BR + Den, 2 ½ bath Twnhse • Qlty appliances, Kitchen w/ center island• Centrl air, gas fi replace, brght open design• Underground sprinklers, fenced backyard•

$332,500 M3921160 acres w/ diverse opportunities•

Water license available• Recreational & working farm potential• Build your own home•

$599,000 M3922

Nice location for 2 BR w/ large lot• Low E double glazed windows• Wood stove, 2 car garage & Lrg deck• Fully fenced yard•

$174,500 M3924 •

Custom build home on 19 acres• Master BR w/ attached deck• Kitchen w/island, fi re place & built in vacuum• Complete RV pad + Garage w/ 12 FT doors•

$532,000 M3925•

Lovely 3BR Rancher• 2Baths up, full bath down• Full sized pool in large backyard• Basement mainly fi nished•

$375,000 M3927•

2 bdrms in strata building• Central location• Laminate fl ooring• New roof in 2010•

$76,900 M3486 .•

Two bedroom on good sized lot• Tile fl ooring in Kitchen, Hall & Bath• Lane access and storage shed• Home has had recent electrical upgrades•

$82,000 M3897

2+ bdrm home on a good sized lot• Open plan for kitchen, DR & LR• Roof, electrical approval• Fully fenced yard & lots of parking•

$99,900 M3871•

Attention fi rst time homebuyers/ Investors• Nice 3 BR 1 bath home in nice area• All appliances included, fenced back yard• PRICED TO SELL!!•

$105,000 M3912•

Cute & cozy• 3 bdrm bungalow• Huge 51x150’ lot, Covered deck • Enjoy the mtn views•

$110,000 M3807•

Nice 2 Bedroom Condo• New laminate fl ooring• All appliances included• Good for revenue or fi rst timer•

$112,000 M3877•

Affordable revenue property• Lvgrm, kitchen & laundy rm on main• Upper fl r has 3 bdrms & full bath• Vinyl windows & fully fenced front yd•

$103,000 M3823

Long term tenant for the investor• 2 bdrms & bath on main• Full unfi nished basement w/ laundry • Front driveway + lane access,lots of parking•

$120,000 M3797•

Close to schools, parks & downtown• Fully fenced & landscaped• Basement is unfi nished• Great starter home•

$139,500 M3751•

3 bedroom, 1 bath Rancher• Walking distance to downtown• Newer Furnace• Fully fenced yard•

$146,900 M3843•

Unique layout that awaits your touch• 2 lots, 2 titles• Detached double garage• Central location provides easy access•

$147,500 M3792•

Upgrades inc Windows & siding, Painted deck• 3BD with fully fenced yard and lane access• Back yard re seeded and gutters cleaned• Solid home, ready for retirees or fi rst time buyers•

$156,900 M3887

Nice 3 BR, 2 full Bath, half duplex• Large Fam Room on Main w/2 BRs, Kitchen• And L.R. on 2nd storey. Fenced back yard• With shed and single garage.•

$159,000 M3851•

Bright, quiet & comfortable strata retirement home• This home is wheelchair accessible - large rooms• Gated community, walking distance to downtown• 2 large BR’s, 5 piece bath w/separate walk-in shower.•

$159,000 M3833•

Main house + bachelor house on 1 lot• 22x22 garage on 2nd lot• Main house has 100 amp upgrade• Garage is wired & heated•

$160,000 M3744•

2 BR home in McCallum Gardens• Open fl oor plan, skylight in kitchen• Master BR has Ensuite, Patio area has Gazebo• Flower beds, Front looking over Nicola river•

$160,000 M3907•

Covered parking• Galley kitch w/ appliances & skylite• Patio doors from 2nd BR or den• Nicola River in the back•

$165,000 M3365


NEW LISTING


Identifying desirable types of properties• Investigation and timely information • gatheringViewing properties and providing infor-• mation and advice

Preparing a binding Contract of Pur-• chase and SaleNegotiating terms and conditions• Assisting in arranging inspections and • other needed services

14 • THURSDAY, May 2, 2013 www.merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com THURSDAY, May 2, 2013 • 15


M E R R I T TPhone: 250-378-6181

1988 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 • Fax: 250-378-6184www.royallepage.ca/merritt www.realtor.ca

Tom McDonaghBroker

[email protected]

Karen BonneteauSales Rep

[email protected]

Claudette EdenosteBroker

250-280-0689

John IssacSales Rep

[email protected]

Debra SchindlerPersonal Real Estate Corp.

250-315-3548

LyndaPropertyManager

250-378-1996

Nice 3 BR, 2 full baths, half duplex• 1 car attached garage & fenced yard• New roof ’07, Large Master BR.• Open fl oor plan,Option to purchase entire duplex•

$169,000 M3852•

New residential lots in a nice part of Merritt• Located in quiet cul-de-sac & crescent setting• Fully serviced including curbs & storm drain• All prepaid by the developer•

$57,000 M3692•

Views of the Nicola Valley • Walking trails & shopping nearby• All services are u/g & at lot line• One of Merritt’s preferred neighborhoods•

$67,000 M3758•

Beautiful river view lot close to downtown• Nice, quiet neighborhood• The uncompromised view never to change• Bring your building ideas•

$79,000 M3707•

Good sized lot• Ok for double wide• City services @ prop line• Mountain view in a quiet area•

$79,000 M3534•

Extra large double lot• 2 city water & sewage hookups• Private setting, fl at site• Easy access w/ paved roads•

$100,000 M3495•

Nicola Lakeshore Estates• Amazing lake view lot in Phase 2• Build your dream home• Tons of recreation to choose from!! •

$149,900 M3749•

Amazing Lake view lots• Phase 1 of Nicola Lakeshore Estates• Only 2.5 hours from Lower Mainland• Fishing, Hiking, water sports & much More!!•

$199,000 M3906•

24 acres in beautiful Sunshine Valley• Treed lot, very private, easy access• Many potential building sites• Hydro & phone lines to property line•

$217,000 M3603•

Waterfront lot on Nicola Lake• 3 km to Quilchena Hotel• Close to Merritt & Kamloops• Private access to lake •

$314,990 M3478•

Build your dream home• 1 of Logan Lakes best lots• 30 min drive to Kamloops shopping mall• Invest today in a fast growing community•

$44,000 M3884Guichon Creek fl ows thru property•

Wonderful Views, good sized lot• Easy access to new Retail and Restaurants• Build your own dream home• Neighbouring lot is also available•

$60,500 M3914 & M3915•

Desirable Nicola Wynd development• Nice fl at building lots• Bring your plans & build your dream home• Quality builder available to discuss plan•

$70,000 M3908, M3910, M3911•

Desirable Nicola Wynd development• Nice fl at building lot• Bring your plans & build your dream home• Quality builder available to discuss plan•

$79,000 M3909•

One of a kind lot in Lower Nicola• Cleared & level in an incredibly quiet location• Water serviced by Lower Nicola Water Works• Approved for septic & HST already paid •

$99,000 M3827 •

1.44 acre prime building lot• Approx 295 ft river frontage• Within walking distance to downtown• Gorgeous views of mountains & Ranchlands•

$144,900 M3898•

Peace & tranquility, 26+ acre of land• Views are breathtaking• Bring your building ideas• If you are looking for privacy, look no more•

$179,000 M3919•

247’ lake front w/ winding trail to site• Great views of the valley & water below• Community water in place, power @ lot line• Easy access off hwy & quiet enjoyment•

$205,000 M3728•

Seclusion & privacy, off the grid living• 20 acres 9 kms from Merritt toward Lilly Lake• All new fencing & custom made gateway• Creek & 2 water holes, perfect weekend getaway•

$199,000 M3832•

Country acreage w/natural grasslands & slight hills• Good water table w/2 ponds providing seasonal creek• 2acre leveled area ready for possible home• Wonderful views of property & surrounding area•

$329,000 M3889•

Cozy 2 BD Rancher downtown, fenced back yard• Free standing wood stove, metal shed & Shop• Many upgrades inc Hotwater tank & paint• Front yard has Garlic and Herb bed•

$169,000 M3886•

Well maintained 2 bedroom rancher• In central location, Nice and spacious LR,• bright sunny kitchen,Beautifully landscaped Yard • Plenty ofRV parking•

$169,900 M3853•

SxS duplex w/ reno’s• Lam fl ring, paint, vinyl windows• Front driveway + lots of parking• Shared garage & shed•

$173,000 M3813•

55 plus buyer at McCallum Gardens• 2BR with den, all appliances incl• Central air, water softener and alarm system• Wonderful views of Nicola River•

$180,000 M3920•

Attention: Investors 4 plex near downtown• 4-1 BR units, all currently rented• 1 unit has been recently renovated• Walking distant to Downtown•

5 Bedrooms, 2Baths• Two storey family home• Large lot• Nice location•

$189,000 M3892• $194,900 M3874

All Units Rented• 2 Year Old Roof• Lots of parking space• Short walk to city centre•

$198,000 M3839•

Sunvalley Court-2 BR, 2 bath townhouse• End unit-includes all appliances• PRICED TO SELL!!• 24 hour notice required•

$199,900 M3741•

Move-in Ready• 3 bedroom. 2 ½ Bath, & Offi ce• New fl ooring and new paint• Central Air and bright, open design•

$215,900 M3875•

Quality 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath townhouse• Heat pump, a/c, high effi ciency appliances• Gas fi replace & many extras• Low maintenance property•

$217,000 M3869 •

Bench Location 4 BR, 2 Bath home• HW fl oors and vinyl windows on main• Potential legal suite, potential 5th BR• All appliances included•

$249,000 M3865•

2 level bungalow on cul-de-sac Street• 3 BR on upper fl oor, 2 more downstairs• Vinyl windows & siding, 100 amp service• Wood fi replace & stove, storage shed•

Nicely fi nished 3 BR, home is well cared for• Upgrades to plumbing and Electrical• Property is full fenced and garden area• Small greenhouse, hay shed & garage w/power•

$249,490 M3895• $259,000 M3917

2 level home in Lower Nicola• Lge fenced yd w/ fruit trees• 36x12 covered deck + nice patio area• 2 bdrms up/1 down, master w/ensuite•

$260,000 M3811•

Immaculate family home on quiet street• Many upgrades, fl ooring, windows & more!!• Large Sundeck accessible through dining room• Elementary & High School nearby•

$268,000 M3905•

2 bdrm bungalow in popular strata• No kids, no rentals & self managed• New roof, carpet & paint• Quick possession•

$269,000 M3834 •

Good sized building w/easy access• 1500 sq.ft. per fl oor,wheelchair access • Upper fl oor, 1 offi ce, mini kitchen & bthrm• Backyard is fenced, Ramps on both sides•

$275,000 M3903•

Start planning for your retirement• 40 acres with fl owing creek• Enjoy the great outdoors• Minutes from friendly Logan Lake•

$198,500 M3929•

Unique & tasteful 4 bdrm, 2 bath family home• H/water on demand & central a/c• Hardwood fl rs & bright open design• Beautifully l/scaped yd w/ private patio•

Well maintained 1 owner home• 7 bdrms & 4 baths + 2 bdrm legal suite• New fl ring, H/W tank & boiler • M.BR w/ W/I closet, full enste w/ Jacuzzi•

$285,000 M3794• $299,900 M3819•

Large 7 BR, 4 ½ bath home• Potential legal suite• Plus In-law suite on main• Mill Creek Cabinets•

$329,000 M3862•

Excellent Bench Location, • LR has Japanese Cherry HW Floors• 4 BR family home w/ full basement• Gazebo, Hot Tub, Swimming Pool & much more!•

$339,000 M3893

New amazing 3 bedroom, 2 bath rancher• Quality built, Home warranty applies• Amazing kitchen • 9 ft ceilingsand large bright design•

$339,000 M3848•

99x259 lot bordering Nicola River• Beautiful heritage home• Gorgeous perennial gardens• Possible subdivision potential•

$339,000 M3918•

Well maintained 3 BR, 2 bath home• On a quiet cul-de-sac and close to amenities• Open fl oor plan, Vaulted ceilings• Kitchen has cabinets galore& access to deck•

$339,900 M3859 •

Beautiful 3 BR home w/high-end quality fi nishing• Kitchen has Travertine tile, granite counters,• and Mill Creek cabinets. LR with H/W fl oors• Gas F/P, Ensuite w/Jacuzzi tub. Huge rec room•

New amazing 3 bedroom, 2 bath rancher • With full unfi nished bsmt.• 9 ft. ceilings, large bright design.• Quality built & Home warranty.•

$349,000 M3855• $369,000 M3847

4 Plex – Investors• 4 Large Suites, Close to downtown• Double Lot, Great Location• Lots of parking•

Gorgeous mountain and ranchland views• 10 acres of privacy• Custom Built 3 BR, 2bath home• 22x22 garage and 50x50 dog kennel.•

$388,000 M3863•

$485,000 M 3870•

Most amazing views• Huge shop• Updated, one level home• Near Mamette Lake•

Gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3 bath family home• O.63 acre parcel bordering Nicola River• Dining Room with access to private deck• 2 car garage and So Much More!•

$390,000 M3801•

$495,000 M3866 •

Wonderful rural acreage w/ creek in the back• 3 BR rancher w/ wood stove, siding & new roof• Workshop, horse stalls, dog run and much more!!• A comfortable country getaway•

Gorgeous 4 BR log home with f/bsmt on 4 acres• Spacious rooms,vaulted ceilings,several outbuildings• Beautiful landscaping, Large barn w/5 box stalls• 3 Grazing pastures•

$419,900 M3899•

$499,000 M3850•

Riverfront Acreage with beautiful 2 year old • Modular home has open fl oor plan, vaulted ceilings• 3 BRs, 2 Baths, Has Engineered Pad created• for a shop, 9.62 riverfront property w/fenced pasture•

Main fl features vaulted ceiling & open fl oor plan• Master bedroom with Ensuite & walk in closet• Large deck, riding ring & new 2500 sq.ft barn• Nice Country getaway or hobby farm•

$419,000 M3857•

$529,000 M3883•

Spectacular panoramic views• In-law suite w/ wood burning stove• Great well producing 60 us gpm• Property quiet w/approx 4 acre fenced area•

40 Acre Hobby Farm w/6 stall Barn & Creek• 3 BR home w/full bsmt, 2 baths& sunny kichen• LR w/woodstove. Fenced into 3 pastures &• 2 small paddocks, w/ round pen & exercise arena.•

$429,000 M3913•

$599,000 M3861 •

Executive 5 bdrm, 4 bath family home• Amazing chef’s kitchen w/ granite countertops• Remodeled bsmt & main bathrooms• Inground pool & private backyard•

Custom built Post & Beam Home• Stunning views on 21 +/- acres • Polished concrete fl oors• Custom built maple cabinets and much more!•

Location-Got it! Spacious Living- Got it!• Immaculate 3 level – 6 bedrooms, • 5and ½ bath home, 5 piece ensuite• Large 3 bay garage-RV parking.•

160 acres of seclusion & privacy• Endless trails surrounded by Crown land• This land is fenced• 10 kms from the paved highway•

$439,000 M3826•

$599,000 M3879•

$459,900 M3837

$599,000 M3815

EXCLUSIVEEXCLUSIVE

MOBILE HOMES IN PARKS

LOTS AND ACREAGE

Bright & Open design with Skylights• Enjoy mature landscaping & Gardening• 2 BD, New Sundeck and Garden shed incl•

$89,000 M3885

Clean comfortable 2 br, mobile home• New furnace, hotwater tank and fridge• laundry room w/lots of cupboard space•

$27,000 M3916

Great starter home or retirement• 2 bdrm double wide w/ sun deck and ensuite• Coldwater River is close by•

$58,000 M3787•

Completely Re-plumbed & New HW Tank• 3 bdrm, 2 bath rancher • Appliances included•

$49,900 M3844

Nice park w/ river across the road• 3 bdrm home w/ good sized fenced yard• New tub surround & lino in bathroom•

$30,000 M3796

Well kept 3 bedroom manufactured home• 18x20 interlocking driveway• 6 appliances, newer paint & fl ooring•

$41,900 M3607

REDUCED!!REDUCED!!

LOGAN LAKE

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

Royal Lepage

Realtors(R)

are trained to

provide valuable

assistance

to Buyers

Beautiful Lots and Acreages to

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME.



M E R R I T TPhone: 250-378-6181

1988 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 • Fax: 250-378-6184www.royallepage.ca/merritt


MERRITT, LOGAN LAKE, BC

NEW LISTING!

NEW LISTING!REDUCED!!

COMMERCIAL

Spectacular horse property.• 4 bedroom family home• Amazing 8 stall barn• 15 minutes from Merritt•

$630,000 M3902•

44 +/- private acres with creek• Spectacular 2530 sq.ft. rancher• 26x36 log barn/ 36x40 shop• 20x40 RV shelter/ 70x140 riding arena•

$849,000 M3876•

0 • Great starter or investment5 bdrms on lge corner lot• New kitch, bathrms, fl ring throughout• New H/E furnace, a/c, roof, windows…•

$219,500 M3818Completely redone & gorgeous•

80 acre horse farm• 2 large ranch houses• 44x96 Barn• 40x40 wired, insulated & heated shop•

$1,690,000 M390

New windows, siding, roof, h/w tank• New kitchen, fl oors & electrical• Solarium off DR, the list goes on….

$249,500 M3817

1 1/2 commercial lots in downtown core• Zoned C2, 3000 sq ft lot fronts on Voght St• 6000 sq ft lot fronts on Coutlee Ave• Offers an array of commercial possibilities•

$139,000 M3867

Large open commercial space (approx 6500 sf)• Curb parking and parking lot across the street• Located in the d/t core. Sold as bldg & land• Roof HVAC, hot water & roll down security door•

$440,000 M3779

Excellent downtown location• Chain linked fencing all around perimeter• Includes forklift, bobcat• Will consider a lease w/ option to buy•

$395,000 M3829

Developers take note• Approx 15 acres of prime development property• Current zoning is I3 w/portion in the ALR• Subdivision potential•

$499,000 M3873

Whether starting out, over or renting out• Renovated 3 BR mobile home• New windows, roof, furnace & electrical• 12x22 metal shed on cement foundation•

$142,000 L3926

Perfect family business!!• 35 seat licensed restaurant, 16 outdoor seating• All equipment included and inventory• Long term business, excellent client base•

$59,900 M3923

Immaculate 2BR, 2Bth, super suite• Lrg dining area, elegant kitchen, newer windows• Strata fee inc, heat, hot water, cable and more.• Also small pet friendly! Look no further!•

$115,000 M3808

Affordable Living• Immaculate Manufactured home on own lot.• Gas Fireplace, Vaulted ceilings• Newer Laminate fl ooring, no carpets•

$124,000 M3882

Stop Renting!!• 2 BR, 2 Bath Manufactured home• Open fl oor plan offers casual living• Enjoy Skylights and upgraded appliances•

$137,000 M3904

4 BR, 3 Bath home with inlaw suite• New laminate fl oors, Central vac &gas fi replace• French doors to outside barbeque area• Storage sheds and double car garage•

$205,000 M3896

Great 4 BR family home w/ 3 Bathrooms• Beautiful wood fl oors, Custom Brkfst nook• Tons of storage, Roof 1 year old• Relax in the Hot Tub at the end of the day•

$205,000 M3890

Nothing to do but move in!• 2x6 construction and walk-out bsmt• Backing on to Greenbelt• New roof, 40 Gal HW Tank•

$268,000 M3846

Spacious 4 bdrm home• Family neighborhood, awesome deck• Huge Jacuzzi tub & pool table• All appliances & window coverings•

$258,000 M3806

Great starter or retirement home• 2 lots for the price of 1• 4 bdrms, 2 bathrooms• Beautiful views•

$269,900 M3805

2,461 Sq ft home w/beautiful wood fl oors• 5BR, 3 bath w/ gas fi replace• Whirlpool tub, skylight & hutch w/wine rack• Private deck w/glass railings, huge carport•

Find ultimate luxury in this 3 BR Custom Log Home• Laundry on main fl oor, Games room & more!!• Resort style Atmosphere, like a vacation everyday• Mile High Estates, between Logan Lake & Kamloops•

$375,000 M3894

Hi-end haven recreational property• 2 story log home at Mile High Estates• Wood stove, wood fl rs throughout• Gourmet kitch w/ custom cabinets•

$435,000 M3822 $299,000 M3928 •

Outstanding views, and lots of privacy!• Newer Manufactured Home, never lived in.• Nearly 20 acres near Merritt, all new fencing• 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home, Move-in ready!•

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elections.bc.ca / 1 - 8 0 0 - 6 6 1 - 8 6 8 3 TTY 1-888-456-5448

In the 40th Provincial General Election, British Columbia’s voters will vote for their Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.

BC Has More Ways to VoteAll voters can:

Vote in any district electoral office from now until 4 p.m. (Pacific time) on General Voting Day, Tuesday, May 14, 2013.

Vote by Mail You can ask for a Vote by Mail package from your district electoral office or through the Elections BC website at elections.bc.ca

Vote at advance voting Voters can attend any advance voting location in the province from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time), Wednesday, May 8 through Saturday, May 11. All advance voting locations are wheelchair accessible.

Vote on General Voting Day Voters can attend any general voting location in the province from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Pacific time), Tuesday, May 14, 2013.

Identification Rules for VotingVoters must prove their identity and current residential address to get a ballot or register to vote at the time of voting. Any one of the following pieces of identification is acceptable:

• BC drivers licence• BC identification card• BC Services Card• Certificate of Indian Status

If you don’t have any of the above, bring two documents that together prove your identity and current residential address. A complete list of acceptable identification is available from Elections BC.

Voters without identification can be vouched for by a voter in their electoral district who has identification, or by a direct family member, or by someone who has legal authority to make personal care decisions for the voter.

Get our OTE App for iPhones and iPads to find the closest voting place and for information you need to vote.

Any Questions?For further information visit Elections BC’s website at elections.bc.ca or call toll-free 1-800-661-8683.

Or, contact your district electoral office. Hours of operation Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Get ready to vote.

The following persons have been nominated as candidates for Fraser-Nicola for the 40th Provincial General Election.

Fraser-Nicola Electoral DistrictCandidate’s Name: Financial Agent: Official Agent:

Michael BeauclairBC Conservative Party

Alan GroomePO Box 1244, Ashcroft, BC, V0K 1A0

John KidderGreen Party of BC

John Kidder1 Old Mill Rd PO Box 882, Ashcroft, BC, V0K 1A0

Harry LaliBC NDP

Dean MorrisonPO Box 1728, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8

Jackie TegartBC Liberal Party

Debra Arnott4141 Mickey Frontage Rd RR 1, Cache Creek, BC, V0K 1H1

General Voting Places: Advance Voting Places: District Electoral Offices:

70 Mile House Comm Hall2585 N Bonaparte Rd, 70 Mile House, BC

Ashcroft Comm Hall409 Bancroft St, Ashcroft, BC

Cache Creek Comm Hall1270 Stage Rd, Cache Creek, BC

Clinton Memorial Hall306 Le Bourdais Ave, Clinton, BC

Coldwater Comm Hall109 400th St, Merritt, BC

Coldwell Residence10780 Jesmond Rd, Clinton, BC

Eastgate Fire Hall140 Airstrip Rd, Eastgate, BC

Edward Billy Memorial Hall4 Meadow Lake Rd, Dog Creek, BC

Elders Complex600 Sk’il Mountain Rd, Shalalth, BC

Gold Bridge Comm CentreGun Lake Rd, Gold Bridge, BC

Hayes Creek Fire Hall3950 Princeton-summerland Rd, Princeton, BC

Lac Le Jeune Resort Lodge5665 Lac Le Jeune Rd, Lac Le Jeune, BC

Lillooet & District Rec Centre930 Main St, Lillooet, BC

Logan Lake Pentecostal Assembly237 Jasper Dr, Logan Lake, BC

Lomond Residence1559 Steelhead Rd, Walhachin, BC

Loon Lake Comm Hall1705 Loon Lake Rd, Cache Creek, BC

Lower Nicola Band Hall85 8 Hwy, Lower Nicola, BC

Lower Nicola Comm Hall2383 Aberdeen Rd, Lower Nicola, BC

Lytton First Nation Memorial Hall918 Main St, Lytton, BC

Merritt Civic Centre1950 Mamette Ave, Merritt, BC

Old Headstart Bldg2221 Village Rd, Douglas Lake, BC

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church5A Hwy, Quilchena, BC

Royal Canadian Legion 56172 Bridge St, Princeton, BC

Shackan Comm Hall4943 Potatoeillshie Rd, Canford, BC

Shumway Lake Rowing Club5A Hwy, Kamloops, BC

Skeetchestn Rec Centre330 Main Dr, Savona, BC

Spences Bridge Elem School4800 School St, Spences Bridge, BC

Tulameen Comm Centre2595 Otter Ave, Tulameen, BC

West Fraser Comm Hall2090 Peters Rd, Lytton, BC

Xaxli’p Admin Office1433 Fountain Valley Rd, Fountain, BC

Ashcroft Comm Hall409 Bancroft St, Ashcroft, BC

Cache Creek Comm Hall1270 Stage Rd, Cache Creek, BC

Lillooet & District Rec Centre930 Main St, Lillooet, BC

Logan Lake Pentecostal Assembly237 Jasper Dr, Logan Lake, BC

Merritt Civic Centre1950 Mamette Ave, Merritt, BC

Royal Canadian Legion 56172 Bridge St, Princeton, BC

1976 Voght StMerritt, BC(250) 378-1403

405 Railway AveAshcroft, BC(250) 453-2100

MAY 2013

GENERAL ELECTION


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Shepherd / Malamute / Wolf-HybridSix year old, Deeks, loves riding in the truck, hiking and exploring. Deeks does well with most canines. He will do best on an acreage. He loves being with his people but would choose not to be cooped up in the house for long periods of time.

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Residents who previously took their waste to the Lower Nicola Land ll, will

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Having life insur-ance coverage is a very important decision for you and your benefi-ciaries, but there are many life insurance products to choose from. Which is right for you? Which is the best fit for your per-sonal situation, budget and long-term finan-cial, retirement and estate goals?

It could be partici-pating whole life insur-ance (also known as par whole life) if this profile looks like you:

My tolerance for • investment risk is low.I want protection • for my lifetime with guaranteed premi-ums, guaranteed

cash values and a guaranteed basic death benefit that will be tax-free to my beneficiaries.I want an investment • component included with my insurance coverage that pro-vides the potential for tax-deferred growth, a level pre-mium and for the policy to become paid up over a num-ber of years.I don’t want the • burden of the day-to-day management of the investment component of my life insurance policy. I want built-in tax-• advantaged savings I can easily and quickly draw on if I need the funds for personal or business reasons (although I do recognize that any cash values I withdraw from the policy may be sub-ject to tax).

Participating life insurance combines life insurance with an investment com-

ponent that also pays dividends. Here’s how participating whole life works:

Your premiums go into an account, called the PAR account, along with the premi-ums paid by everyone else holding a partici-pating policy with the life insurance company you choose.

The premiums you pay and the policy coverages are calculat-ed based on long-term assumptions for death claims, investment returns and other fac-tors.

Your premiums, the guaranteed cash sur-render value schedule and the basic death benefit are based on these factors and are guaranteed for the life of your policy.

Paid up additions, determined by the dividends you have paid, are eligible to earn future dividends – that’s what provides for the compounding of a whole life policy – a great feature, and it’s

tax sheltered.The pooled premi-

ums within the PAR account of all policy-holders who own PAR policies are invested in a balanced portfolio managed by invest-ment professionals.

When a profit is earned on a participat-ing policy, a significant portion is distributed to the policy holders in the form of a dividend that is credited to your policy and owned by you. Although divi-dends are not guaran-teed, participating pol-icies have historically earned profits and returned dividends.

You can use the dividends to increase the policy’s cash value on a tax-advantaged basis, withdraw the cash from your policy or borrow against it, buy additional insur-ance without the need to prove your insur-ability, or to lower your out-of-pocket premiums.

Participating insur-ance products offer

choice and flexibility. Talk to your profes-sional advisor to find out if your personal and financial profile is up to PAR.

This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm), and Investors Group Securities Inc. (in Québec, a firm in Financial Planning) presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advi-sor for specific advice about your circumstances. For more information on this topic please contact your Investors Group Consultant.

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How much can a homeowner save each year with an energy-efficient choice, such as a LEED certified home? In Ontario, new owners can save on average $900 a year on water and energy bills for a 2,000 square foot, detached home. This represents $22,560 over the life of an average mortgage.

Some insurance companies also offer up to 10 per cent discounts on these types of homes,

and owning one may increase your property’s value. Visit cagbc.org/greenhomes to find

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earned cash on more important things, like paying off your mort-gage a year or two early.


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10 ways to treat back pain

1. Limit bed restThis may sound like

the exact opposite of what you have been told in the past, but studies show that people with acute low-back pain who rest, particularly complete bed rest, have more pain and are less able to perform daily tasks than those who stay active. When you keep moving, even just a little, the back muscles will have greater blood flow through them and will remain slightly looser. As well, even gentle motion of the joints in the spine will promote healing of injured areas.

2. Keep exercisingI have found that

time and time again, keeping your back mov-ing is often the best medicine for back pain. Even simple activities such as walking and slow passive stretching can reduce acute pain and promote healing of the injured area. However, any heavy lifting or quick twisting of the spine will potentially bring on more pain and prolong the time required for a full recovery.

3. Practice good pos-ture

Back pain can start after a long day of work-ing in the garden or after

a heavy workout at the gym. However, in most people, that area of the back may have been vulnerable to injury for a long time prior to actu-ally feeling the onset of pain. This is due to the fact that most people perform their daily activities with poor pos-ture, putting unnecessary strain on their backs. This accumulates over time. In fact, the pres-sure on your low back can increase by 50 per cent simply by bending over to wash your face in the bathroom sink!

4. See a chiropractorWhen you see a

chiropractor for regular maintenance or treat-ment and follow a stretching/exercise program that he or she recommends, the chance of a low back injury is much less. These sugges-

tions may include core strengthening and/or stretching.

5. Strengthen your core

The stronger your core muscles are, the more they are able to offer support when you lift something a little too heavy or in an awkward position.

6. Improve flexibilityToo much tension

and tightness in one area can cause an injury in a completely different spot. For example, when your hamstrings are too tight, the pelvis cannot tip forward as you bend forward. This results in all the motion hap-pening at the low back instead of being shared between the pelvis and low back. Eventually, this will result in a low back injury.

7. Don’t wear a back brace

Back braces are help-ful for strenuous activi-ties like heavy lifting, but only keep them on for 15 minutes at a time. If you wear a brace all day, the muscles that should be doing the stabilizing of your back will not be used as much and will weaken over time. This will result in you having less core strength and being more prone to a low back injury when you are not wearing a brace.

8. Apply ice and heatHeating pads and

cold packs can provide some short-term relief from back pain. Most doctors recommend using ice for the first 48 hours after an acute inju-ry, particularly if there is swelling. After the initial 48 hours, switching to

heat seems to have the best result. However, researchers have not been able to confirm which is better overall, ice or heat. Personally, I recommend that patients use whichever they find works the best for them.

9. Sleep the right way

The amount of sleep you get is just as important as the position you are in when you get that sleep. Sleeping with awkward or poor body position or on a mat-tress without adequate support can cause back pain. To help you sleep more comfortably, there are a few things you can do. When sleeping on your back, you should put pillows under your knees. When sleeping on your side, you should place pillows between your knees to keep your spine in a neutral position. If you sleep on your stomach, you are asking for trouble. Stomach sleeping causes the neck and head to twist and can put undue stress on the back.

10. Quit smokingSmoking doesn’t

just damage your lungs, heart, and arteries. It can also contribute to the likelihood of you experiencing back pain. It is now common knowledge that current and former smokers are more likely to have back pain. This is because nicotine causes the small blood vessels to constrict and decreases the deliv-ery of blood to the soft tissues, such as the disks between the vertebrae of the spine.

DR. COLIN GAGESpinal COLUMN

The position you sleep in and how much sleep you get could be contributing to your back pain.


Central Scouting ranks Merritt’s Dane Birks 121st amongst North American skaters going into 2013 NHL draft

HERALD SPORTSmerrittherald.com bcclassified.com

Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing [email protected]

“THE TOUGHEST SPORT ON EARTH!”

COUNTDOWN TO THE SMITHBILT TY POZZOBON

INVITATIONAL BULL RIDINGJune 1, 2013 6 p.m.

Merritt Rodeo Grounds

30 DAYSTickets available in Merritt at Purity Feed

Pozzobon gets back on the winning trackBy Ian WebsterTHE [email protected]

Merritt bull rider Ty Pozzobon closed out a tough month of April on a positive note with a first place finish in round one action at the Dewalt

Guaranteed Tough Invitational in Nampa, Idaho on April 26.

Pozzobon rode Slippery Devil to an 87.5 point score and a tie for the top spot with Fabiano Vieira from Brazil.

Pozzobon picked up over $5,065 in win-nings at the Dewalt event, moving him back up to 17th place in the Built Ford Tough Series standings with over $65,000 in earnings so far this year.

Next up for Pozzobon is the Last Cowboy Standing com-petition in Las Vegas, Nevada, May 10-11.

Pozzobon will be competing in Merritt on June 1 in his own invita-tional event.

GREAT DANE Merritt’s Dane Birks is ranked 121st amongst North American skaters by Central Scouting going into the June 30 NHL draft in New Jersey. Ian Webster/Herald

By Ian WebsterTHE [email protected]

When National Hockey League gen-eral managers and their entourages gather in New Jersey on June 30 for the 2013 NHL draft, there will be a Merritt hockey player’s name being bandied about for serious consideration by the 30 member teams in attendance.

Seventeen-year-old Merritt Centennials’ defenceman Dane Birks is listed as the 121st best North American skater on the NHL Central Scouting’s final ranking of draft-eligible hockey players worldwide.

Birks is one of 15 Junior A players from across Canada listed in the Central Scouting report. Of the fifteen, seven come from the British Columbia Hockey League. The others are Surrey’s Adam Tambellini (42nd), West Kelowna’s David Pope (67th), Powell River’s Luke Ripley (86th), Victoria’s Nolan DeJong (111th), Penticton’s Jedd Soleway (131st) and Chad Katunar (28th amongst North American goaltenders) and Prince George’s Kevin Guiltinan (162nd).

This past week, Birks travelled to Kamloops to meet with a representa-tive of the Pittsburgh Penquins organization. Recently, he has also met with team person-nel from the New Jersey Devils and the Montreal

Canadiens — pretty heady stuff for a young hockey player who, a year ago at this time, was wondering if he had it in him to even make a BCHL team.

“It’s all come pretty fast,” Birks said. “It feels rather overwhelming. Sometimes, I think that I’m still dreaming.”

The Merritt minor hockey product said the recent meetings with NHL teams went very well, and were most informative.

“Most of their ques-tions were about your daily activities, about your effort level, and about how badly you want it. They just want to learn more about your character and your per-sonality.”

While reluctant to assess his own hockey attributes, Birks said that most of the NHL people he’s talked to so far have mentioned his “on-ice vision, his skating ability, and his defensive-zone passing.”

Asked what the NHL bigwigs said that he needed to improve upon, Birks answered without hesitation, “Get bigger.” The tall, lanky blueliner, who played the 2011-12 season with the Creston Thundercats of the KIJHL, currently checks

in at six-foot-two and 177 pounds.

Merritt Centennials assistant coach Joe Martin, who directed the team’s defence this past season, isn’t the least bit

reluctant to talk about Birks’ formidable hockey talents.

“[Dane] is effortless out there on the ice. He is always around the play, making things happen. It’s very hard to read the play, react to the play and make quick decisions that are correct time and time again. Dane does that. He has a gift.”

Martin went on to make a very flattering comparison. “I don’t like to go on record comparing Dane to a lot of great players, but [former Anaheim Duck and future NHL Hall-of-Famer] Scott Neidermeyer comes to mind. [Dane] has that ability to always be in the right spot at the right time.”

The Cents’ coach agreed that over the next couple of years Birks needs to add some pounds, “but not at the expense of his mobility and quickness. That’s what intrigues the scouts. That’s his ticket to the NHL.”

A Grade 12 student at Merritt Secondary

School, Birks said that the next couple of months are going to be very busy for him.

“There’s graduation to think about, and I have to write my S.A.T. exams in preparation for attending Michigan Tech University in September, 2014. Once high school’s out, I also have the opportunity to go to Minnesota for a month to work out with a bunch of NHL players like T.J. Oshie (from the St. Louis Blues).”

Birks plans to be back in Merritt by August 9 to begin preparations for the Centennials’ main camp later in the month.

“I want to try and be a more dominant player next season, and more of a role model. I feel good about the players we have coming back, and our coaches are doing a great job of recruiting.”

Martin said that he and Cents’ head coach Luke Pierce have the same aspirations for their rising star.

“Next year, what we hope to get out of Dane is that guy who plays 30 minutes a game, and plays in all situations — against the other team’s top line, on the power-play and on the penalty kill. We want Dane to be in a position where he can take a game over.”

Where does Birks plan to be on NHL draft day?

“I’ll be with members of my family, and we’ll all celebrate if my name gets picked.”

Cents’ Pierce to be honoured May 10 as BCHL Interior Conference Coach of the Year; everyone invited

Merritt citizens of all stripes are invited to join friends, family and fans of the Merritt Centennials at the Grand Pub and Grill on Friday night, May 10, to wine, dine and publicly pay tribute to Cents’ head coach Luke Pierce — winner of the 2013 BCHL Interior Conference Coach of the Year award. Pierce, assistant coach Joe Martin and trainer Kyla Knox will all be in attendance.

Pierce’s selection was first announced back in mid-March fol-

lowing a survey of all 16 head coach-es in the British Columbia Hockey League.

In his four seasons with Merritt, Pierce has taken the Centennials from 7th place (and out of the play-offs) in 2009-10 to 2nd and 3rd place finishes the last two years with 76 and 70 points respectively.

Those wishing to eat dinner at the Grand are advised to call in advance (378-4618) to make a reservation for the 5 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. sittings.

‘It feels rather overwhelming. Sometimes, I think that I’m

still dreaming.’

—MERRITT CENTENNIALS DANE BIRKS


SPORTS

Barbarians settle for tie with Kelowna CrowsBy Ian WebsterTHE [email protected]

Gale-force winds made the game dif-ficult for both teams on Sunday as the Merritt Barbarians and visit-ing Kelowna Crows battled to a 10-10 tie in Okanagan men’s rugby action at Voght Park.

“I saw one kick where the ball wound up 10 metres behind where the guy kicked it,” Merritt head coach Nathan Brigden said in reference to the chal-lenges associated with the substantial air cur-rents.

MSS graduate and former Canadian rugby team member Garth Cooke, who was watch-ing from the sidelines, laughingly told Brigden that due to the gusting winds, it was possibly the most disorganized game he’d ever seen.

All the scoring in the weekend match-up took place in the first half, with each team pick-ing up one converted try and one success-ful penalty kick. Riley Clark scored for the Barbarians on a long rumble down the side-

lines, while Eric Schmidt booted the extra two points and the field goal from the penalty mark.

“I was pretty pleased to come out of the first half tied, considering we were playing against the wind,” said Brigden. “I thought we started the second half really well but couldn’t capitalize. The game then became a battle in the trenches

with the forwards grind-ing it out.”

Depite numerous mistakes, and just as many turnovers, neither Merritt nor Kelowna could take advantage of the other side’s miscues and carry the ball across the end line.

The hard-fought contest was brought to a close a bit prematurely by referee and former

Merrittonian Bob Zyrd because of an unfortu-nate incident that saw an unnamed Barbarians’ player punch an oppo-nent following a ruck over the ball.

“A Kelowna player wasn’t releasing the ball on the ground, and one of our players was reef-ing on him pretty hard,” Brigden described. “The ref ’s whistle went. As

they got up, there was still some shoving going on, which happens from time to time. It seemed to be winding down when another one of our players stepped in and basically blind-sided their player with a punch.”

The Kelowna player was taken to the Nicola Valley hospital with undetermined injuries to the face.

“Both teams will submit written reports,” Brigden said. “Our offi-cial position is that it was a situation that never should have happened. Our club is embar-rassed.”

Brigden went on to add that the BC Rugby Union will be investigat-ing the incident, and that the Merritt club is considering internal dis-cipline as well.

“I was in stunned disbelief with what hap-pened,” Brigden said. “Rugby is a physical game, but not a violent game.”

The Barbarians have a bye this weekend. They return to action on May 12 with a road game against West Kelowna.

RAPID ROPIN’ Merritt’s Fallon Fosbery competes in the team roping event at the Kamloops high school rodeo on Saturday. Photo courtesy of Allen Douglas/Kamloops This Week

KAMLOOPS HIGH SCHOOL RODEOSaturday, April 27 - Whispering Pines

Merritt Top 10 Placings Team Roping 3rd Madison Stoltzfus/ Sam Kerr

Goat Tying 10th Fallon Fosbery

Pole Bending 2nd Madison Stoltzfus 5th Resa Stoltzfus

Girls Cutting 2nd Resa Stoltzfus 4th Madison Stoltzfus

Barrel Racing 5th Fallon Fosbery

OFF AND RUNNING Merritt Barbarian Jonathan Cooke runs the rugby ball upfield against the Kelowna Crows on Sunday at Voght Park. Attempting to add their support are Barbarian tem-mates (from left) Mark Nendick and Stuart Woodman. Ian Webster/Herald

ON THE BALL (Left) Nicole Bouchard of the Victorious Secret team hits the ball between a pair of blockers from the Wallbangers squad out of Kelowna. (Right) Husband Frank Antoine from Squilax and his 16-month-old son, Séquoia, take in the Ladies Volleyfest action at the Merritt Secondary School gymnasium on Saturday. Ian Webster/Herald

Ladies Volleyfest tournament a net winner By Ian WebsterTHE [email protected]

The 21st edition of the Ladies Volleyfest in Merritt featured some

outstanding competition amongst a total of 31 teams from around B.C.

Sets in the City emerged as winners in the elite Comp 1 divi-

sion, while Volleydolls and Eric’s Army took the Comp 2A and 2B titles respectively.

In the Rec division, Boobie Brigade and

Slippery Nipples took the A and B categories.

“It was some of the best volleyball I’ve seen played with extremely long rallies,” said Merritt Volleyball Association representative Dave Finch.

The entire weekend event was dedicated towards raising funds for breast cancer research. Finch said the theme was well received by all the participating teams.

This year’s Ladies Volleyfest was also dedi-cated to the memory of Karen Matthias, a longtime MVA execu-tive member who passed away recently.

Finch said that this year’s two major Volleyfest events (the mixed tournament ran

April 14-16) attracted a total of 67 teams, and wouldn’t have been pos-sible without the incred-ible efforts of the Merritt Volleyball Association’s dedicated membership.

“We’d also like to thank the Merritt Fire Rescue Department for doing the Safe Ride Home, the Grand Pub and Grill Rednecks hockey team, John Allison Productions for the excellent enter-tainment, and the Coldwater Hotel for hosting the Friday night registration,” Finch said.

“The individual busi-nesses around town, along with the City of Merritt’s mayor and council are always so supportive of our events,” he said.

JUST FOR KICKS Ryan Marklund (left) and Jorja Thermoset compete for the ball during Grade 6-7 soccer action at the CMS playing fields on Saturday. Merritt Youth Soccer Association games continue until the end of June. Ian Webster/Herald

Phone 250-378-4241 with any events that you may be hosting or email: [email protected]

Brownies Thursdays - 5:30 - 7 p.m. Central School - 250-378-8310Canadian Diabetes AssociationOnce a month, 7 - 9 p.m. Trinity United Church Hall. Call Eva at ,250-378-2897 or Gerry at 250-378-3716Canadian Mental Health Associa-tion - Merritt ClubhouseWednesdays & Fridays: 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. 1721 Coldwater Ave. (Teen Centre) across from MSS. 250-378-4878Central School Pac First Tuesday - 7 p.m. Lunchroom 250-378-4892Celebrate Recovery Meetings every Monday, 7:00 p.m. at New Life Fellowship, 1938 Quilchena Ave. 250-378-4534Community Choir Mondays - 7 p.m. - Fall to Spring Collettville Elementary - 250-378-9899

Court Whist - Fun Game Wednesdays - 7 p.m. at the Seniors Centre 250-378-2776Drop-In SoccerTuesdays & Thursdays: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.Girls & Boys 16+ welcome 250-378-2530Drop-In Volleyball Mondays - 7 - 9 p.m. CMS. 250-378-6212.Guides Mondays - 5:30 -7:00 p.m. Central School - 250-936-8298Ladies’ Curling League Wednesdays, 6 - and 8 p.m. Call 250-378- 8175 or 250-378-4917Living With Loss Support Group Wednesdays - 7 to 8:45 p.m. 2025 Granite Ave - 250-280-4040Merritt Curling Club For League Information 250-378-4423

Merritt Duplicate Bridge Club Tuesdays 7 p.m. Seniors’ Centre 250-378-5550 or 250-378-4577Merritt Elks Lodge Clubs Second & Fourth Wednesday - 8 p.m. Elks Hall 250-378-9788Merritt Lawn Bowling Sun., Tues., & Thurs. at 7 p.m. 250-378-2950Merritt Lions Club First & Third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Best Western - Han’s Golden Wok 250-378-9509Merritt Moms PrenatalPost Natal Support group. Open Monday - Friday - 8:30 a.m. 250-378-2252Merritt Mountain Biking Assoc. Wednesdays 6 p.m. - weekly ride E: [email protected] • T: merrittbikingNavy League Cadets of Canada Wednesdays 6 - 9 p.m. Cadet Hall Ages 9-13 welcome 250-280-6944Merritt Snowmobile Club

Second Tuesday of the month 7 p.m. - Civic Centre 250-315-1082Merritt’s Women in Business Second Wednesday 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Merritt Desert Inn 250-315-5851Nicola Naturalist Society Every Third Thursday - 7:00 p.m. NVIT. www.nicolanaturalists.caNicola Valley Better Breathers3rd Wednesdays, 1:00 pm at Trinity United Call 250-378-6266 N.V. 4-H Club Every Second Tuesday - 6:30 p.m. Central School - 250-378-5028N.V. Community Band Tuesdays - 7 p.m - MSS Music Room 250-378-5031 or 250-378-9894N.V. Dirt Riders AssociationLast Wednesday of the month7 p.m. at Garden Sushi Scott: 250-378-3502 www.nvdra.comN.V. Fall Fair Third Monday - 2145 Quilchena Ave. 7 p.m. 250-378-5925

N.V. Fish & Game (except July and Aug.) Third Wednesday - 7 p.m. Phelan House - 2236 Jackson Ave. 250-378-4572 or 250-378-4904N.V. Horseshoe Club Meetings Wednesdays - 6 p.m. Smith Pioneer Park 250-378-5007 or 250-378-6980N.V. Heritage Society Last Wednesday - Baillie House 250-378-0349N.V. Quilters Guild First & Third Thursdays Civic Centre 7 p.m. 250-378-4172N.V. Search & Rescue Second Monday - 7 p.m. At the airport • 250-378-6769 N.V. Thrift Store First Tuesday - NVGH basement 250-378-9100N.V. Women’s Institute Second Wednesday - 1:30 p.m. In member’s homes 250-378-2536One Way Krew Youth Group

Tuesdays - 7 - 8:30 p.m. Crossroads Community Church - 250-378-2911Pathfi nders Thursdays - 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Central School - 250-936-8298Patricia Rebekah Lodge Second & Fourth Mondays at 7 p.m. Lawn Bowling Club, Merritt Avenue.Rocky Mnt. Rangers Cadet Corp Tuesdays - 6 p.m. 250-378-1302 or 250-572-3775Royal Canadian Legion #96 Executive Mtg. Second Thursday - 6 p.m. Regular Mtg. Fourth Thursday - 7 p.m. 1940 Quilchena - 250-378-5631Royal Purple First and Third Mondays each month 1:30 p.m. - Downstairs @ Elks Hall 250-378-9788Rotary Club of Merritt Every Thursday - Noon Brambles Bakery Cafe. 250-378-5535Rotary Club of Merritt - Sunrise

Every Tuesday - 7 a.m. Brambles BakerySeniors’ Mixed Curling Mondays & Tuesdays - 1 - 3 p.m. 250-378-5539Sparks Mondays - 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Central School - 250-378-8310Teen Centre Mondays & Fridays - 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.

250-378-4878Toastmasters Club 3929 Tuesdays - 5 p.m. at the Merritt Library 250-378-58552 4 U Tuesdays - 2 p.m. at the Hospice Society Sue 250-378-2717 or Bonnie 250-315-0179Valley Visual Artists General club information contact:Fran McMurchy at 250-378-4230Vintage Car Club - Merritt Chapter Second Wednesday - 7:30 p.m. Ska-Lu-La Workshop Al (250-378-7402) Ted (250-378-4195)

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

www.merrittherald.com 22• THURSDAY, May 2, 2013

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE NICOLA VALLEY

Have an event we should know about? Tell us by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing [email protected]

Approved mini-storage

On-site rentals

Secured

Sale of New and Used storage containers

CONTAIN-ITSTORAGESTORAGE

1750 Hill Street Phone: 250-315-3000111717

Contents are

insurable

THE CHURCHES OFMERRITT WELCOME YOU

Crossroads Community Church2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:30 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church2499 Coutlee Ave. (Corner of Coutlee and Orme) • 250-378-2464

Service Time/ Sunday School: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Merritt Lutheran Fellowshipin St. Michael's Church • 250-378-9899

Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:00 p.m.

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic ChurchCorner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

Seventh Day Adventist Church2190 Granite Ave. • 250-378-4061Service Time: Saturdays 11:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church1990 Chapman St. • 250-378-3772Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Trinity United ChurchCorner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE

Merritt on May 4th & 5th from 5:00 pm - 5:00 am at the Civic Centre.

NV WOMEN’S INSTITUTESpring Fashion

Show, Saturday, May 4 at the Senior’s Centre from 1 - 3 p.m.. For more infor-mation call Betty at 250-378-3730

FIRST NATIONS CULTURAL CELEBRATION Logan Lake Secondary School, Friday, May 3, 2013 from 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. All ages invited to enjoy this arts and entertain-ment event. Call 250-523-9441 or Email: [email protected] for more information.

ST. MICHAEL’S PUBLIC TOWN HALL MEETING

All those interest-ed in an open discus-sion about the future of the Anglican church building, 1990 Chapman St. are wel-come. We are look-ing for input from individuals and com-munity organizations

in the Merritt area, to creatively explore all available options and partnerships concerning the use and preservation of this historic building. Wednesday, May 8th 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more info please leave a message at 250 378-3772.

BAILLIE HOUSE Mothers’ Day High Tea at Baillie House. Bring your mother or bring a friend, May 11. Two seatings, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Reservations must be made by May 9 at 6 p.m. Call 378-0349 to reserve.

Spring Garden Festival is on May 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plant sale, Art in the Garden, infor-mation booths, light lunch and snacks. To book a table or for more info. call 378-0349.

SMITH PARK Smith Park in Lower Nicola is holding their Annual Pancake Breakfast and Yard Sale. Sunday, May 26, 2013. Breakfast and Yard Sale from 9

a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Reserve your table early phone 250-378-7266. $10.00 per table. It is time to clean out your base-ment, closets, gar-age, etc and let your neighbours go home with new treasures. Come and enjoy a day at our new park!

COMMUNITY FUTURES Community Futures Nicola Valley invites all the public to attend a free seminar on Sage 50 Accounting Canadian Edition (formerly Simply Accounting). This seminar will teach you how to do more with your accounting software as your business grows. Focusing largely on busi-nesses with more than one employee, you will learn how to use Sage 50 to manage your payroll, employee benefits and vaca-tion. Join us on Tuesday May 7, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Community Room, City Hall, 2185 Voght Street.

Please reply to

[email protected] or call 250-378-3923. Advance registration is required due to limited seating.

MERRITT RADIO - CONTROL MODELLERS

We are starting a new club in town for flying model aircraft. We fly at various locations around town. New members welcome. For more information call Jack at 250-3784371, Jerry at 250-378-3764 or Mike at 250-315-5176

2 4 U Peer support

group for women who suffer from depression, anx-iety, or other mood disorders. Meeting Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. at the Hospice Society, Rm.12, 2025 Granite Ave. For more info. call Sue 378-2717 or Bonnie 315-0179. All women welcome.

NV QUILTERS GUILD First and third-

Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Civic Centre. Find out more by attending one of their

meetings or call 250-378-4172 for more information.

ARCHERY CLUBIf you would like

to see an archery club in Merritt, then we need your sup-port. Drop by Nicola Valley Outdoors and talk to Fred

MSS REUNION Are you a MSS 1983 grad? We are having a 30 year reunion the weekend of Aug. 2-4, 2013. If you could of, should of, or did graduate in 1983 please contact Patty Beers (Cressy) at 250.378.9503 or E: [email protected] for more info.

SOUP BOWLThe Soup Bowl is open Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Anglican Church Hall at 1990 Chapman St.

NICOLA VALLEY RIDING CLUB

The Nicola Valley Riding Club is accepting new mem-bers and volunteers. We are a new club, here in Merritt, for all ages and disci-plines, horse owner

SPRING

tlcponds.ca

• Pruning • Dethatching

• Aerating • Fertilizing • Irrigation

250-378-4166

7 Day Weather Forecast for Merritt, BC - Thursday, May 2 - Wednesday, May 8, 2013 WHAT IS THIS?Learn the Bible on your own.

26 Bible guides to help you.

FREE - Just write to DISCOVERP.O. Box 550 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

Phone 250-378-4061www.vop.com

Thurs. May 2

Variable Cloudiness

High: 16 CLow: 4 C

Fri. May 3

Sunny

High: 20 CLow: 4 C

Sat. May 4

Cloudy Periods

High: 22 CLow: 5 C

Sun. May 5

Cloudy w/Sunny Breaks

High: 25 CLow: 10 C

Mon. May 6

Sunny

High: 26 CLow: 10 C

Tue. May 7

Sunny

High: 27 CLow: 10 C

Wed. May 8

Variable Cloudiness

High: 23 CLow: 10 C


In memory of

MIKE STREETOctober 24, 1957

~ May 2, 2009

We look everywhere, but you’re not thereWe wish that you were still here,

To tell us everything is okay.We want to make you proud,

We hope we are doing a good job.We love and miss you so much.

~ Cecilia, Amanda & Cely-Rae

c/o 3451 Voght St., Merritt, B.C. V1K 1C6Contact: 250-280-4040

Grief SurvivorsSurvivors realize the importance of taking care

of their bodies. Survivors nd ways to express and manage intense and often painful feelings.

Survivors treat themselves gently and learn to make appropriate changes that will allow them to

live in a new and changed world.

Hospice SocietyMerritt & District

MERRITT FUNERAL CHAPEL

Celebrate a memory

• Funeral Services• Cremation

•Burial•Monuments

Call 1-800-668-3379 or 250-378-2141to book an appointment

2113 Granite Avenue, Merritt, BC

Thelma Arlene Feldmann entered into the presence of her Lord on April 18, 2013 in Vernon, BC at the age of 72.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Melanie Feldmann, Edwin Feldmann, Hudson Feldmann (Miranda) and Clara-Ann Feldmann-Boake (Jason); her grandchildren Kyle, Leslie, Randall, Ashley, Jacey, Christopher, Paige, Justin and Kayla and her great grandchildren Marcus and Alec as well as other dear friends and relatives.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Crossroads Community Church, 2990 Voght Street, Merritt, BC on Saturday, May 11th at 1:00 p.m. - refreshments to follow.

Should friends desire, donations may be made directly to: New Life Mission in Kamloops (81 Victoria St W. Kamloops, BC V2C 1A5) or non-perishable donations to our Merritt Food Bank.

Arrangements entrusted to Merritt Funeral Chapel, 250-378-2141

Thelma Arlene FELDMANN

May 31, 1940 – April 18, 2013

Announcements

Coming Events

FREE TRAM RIDES

Hell’s Gate Airtram in the Scenic Fraser Canyon

presents

Canyon Appreciation Day

Sunday, May 12, 10 am - 5 pm

Live entertainment, food & tons of fun for the

whole family! Season Passes $7.00

604-867-9277 hellsgateairtram.com.

In Memoriam In Memoriam

Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries

Your community. Your classifieds.

250.378.4241

fax 250.378.6818 email classi [email protected]

WORD CLASSIFIEDS

Tuesday issuenoon the preceding Friday

Thursday issuenoon the preceding Tuesday

DISPLAY ADVERTISING

Tuesday issuenoon the preceding Friday

Thursday issuenoon the preceding Tuesday

INDEX IN BRIEFFamily Announcements

Community AnnouncementsEmployment

Business ServicesPets & Livestock

Merchandise For SaleReal Estate

RentalsAutomotive

Legals

AGREEMENTIt is agreed by any display or

classi ed advertiser requesting space that the liability of the

paper in the event to failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the

advertiser for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any

event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement.

The publisher shall not beliable for slight changes or

typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an

advertisement. bcclassi eds.com

cannot be responsible for errorsafter the rst day of publication of

any advertisement. Notice of errors after the rst day of

publication of any advertisement. Notice or errors on the rst day should immediately be called

to the attention of the classi ed department to be corrected for

the following edition.

bcclassi eds.comreserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any

advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the

bcclassi ed.com Box ReplayService and to repay the

customer the sum paid for the advertisement and box rental.

DISCRIMINATORYLEGISLATION

Advertisers are reminded thatProvincial legislation forbids the

publication of any advertisementwhich discriminates against any

person because of race, religion,sex, colour, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless

the condition is justi ed by a bona de requirement for the

work involved.

COPYRIGHTCopyright and/or properties

subsist in all advertisements andin all other material appearing inthis edition of bcclassi ed.com.

Permission to reproduce wholly orin part and in any form

whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any

unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

MERRITTHERALD

Ph: 378-4241Fax: 378-6818

Advertising: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

Production: [email protected] Granite Avenue,P.O. Box 9, Merritt, B.C.

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

OMG! It’s your BFF! And FYI: he’s such a QT!

Fetch a Friend from the SPCA today!

spca.bc.ca

Help Wanted

Apply Within

Your path to a better job starts here.

BCDailyRegister Online at www.bcdailydeals.com


Planet Hair & SpaNeeded: Full-time Hair Stylist.

Starting at $12.50/hour. Bring resume to

2040 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC or call Kathy at 378-5558 or 378-5519

Summer Student Employment Opportunity

The Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary is looking for summer help for the Thrift Shop. Students must be returning to school in September.

3 FULL TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLEHours of Work are Tuesday to Saturday,

8 hours a day.Start date June 10 to August 31, 2013

Wages dependent upon experience.

Detailed resumes to be dropped off at the Thrift Shop, 1803 Voght Street.Deadline for receiving resumes is May 10, 2013.

SOCIETY COORDINATOR required for a permanent part time position, consisting of 20 hours/week. Applicant must have a strong, working knowledge of Simply Accounting, be able to work independently, have a general understanding of the Residential Tenancy Act, and be able to deal with people in a compassionate manner.

Please forward resume prior to Noon, May 3, 2013 to the following address:

Coordinator,P.O. Box 2414 , Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

While we thank everyone for their interest in this position, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. Successful candidate must undergo a Criminal Records Check.

Merritt Home Hardware Building Centre is seeking an outstanding candidate. Candidates will have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and will be able to work productively in a team environment, as well as be an independent self-starter. 35 hours per week -Tuesday to Saturday

KEY SKILLS & RESPONSIBILITIES • Experience in Inventory Control • Effi cient Computer Skill • Logistic knowledge • Customer service • Profi cient Math skills • Organized • Physically Fit

Join the team by sending your resume, cover letter and reference list to:

[email protected]

Application deadline: Apply now! Applications will be accepted until the position is fi lled with an exceptional candidate.

We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

Merritt, B.C.EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

SHIPPER/RECEIVER

POSITION: Payroll and Accounts Payable Clerk

Department: Finance

Summary:This is a dual-purpose position. Under the supervision of the Finance Manager, the incumbent;• Performs the tasks associated with theaccurate processing of accounts payables.• Performs the tasks associated with maintaining a payroll and bene ts system including accurate recording and processing of all pertinent information related to NTA staff.The incumbent is responsible for prioritizing the work-load for both components of this position in order to ensure timely completion of all tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Perform the day-to-day processing of accounts payable transactions to ensure that NTA’s nances are maintained in an effective, up-to-date and ac-curate manner. 2. Complete payroll functions in order to ensure staff are paid in an accurate and timely manner.3. Other related duties as required/assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The successful applicant will have extensive knowl-edge of and experience with accounts payable and payroll functions and procedures, as well as an ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in preparing and entering nancial and payroll information.

This position requires the ability to maintain con denti-ality concerning nancial and employee les.

Education requirements include 1st or 2nd level ac-counting as well as education on payroll compliance and fundamentals. Experience with Xyntax Account-ing system is preferable, as is experience.

The successful applicant will report directly to the Fi-nance Manager, and work closely with other mem-bers of the Administration Department.

APPLICATIONS GIVING FULL PERSONAL DETAILS AND WORK EXPERIENCE WITH COVER LETTER MUST BE SUBMITTED TO:

Rick Yellow HornExecutive Director

Nicola Tribal Association PO Box 188, Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8

NO LATER THAN Tuesday, May 7, 2013 at 4:30 pm

JOB POSTING

Applications are invited for a Part-Time Bylaw Enforcement Officer.The City of Merritt is seeking an individual to serve as Bylaw Enforcement Officer on a part time basis. The position is for a twenty (20) hour work week with shifts on weekends from May to September.For complete details, visit the City website at www.merritt.ca

Applications will be received by the undersigned until 4:00 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2013.

Carole Fraser

Deputy Clerk, Human Resources Manager City of Merritt

2185 Voght Street, Box 189, Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8email: [email protected]

As only those candidates short-listed will be contacted, we thank you in advance for your interest in this position.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Congratulations!Jim & Jeannine Hamm

1948 - 2013

Jim & Jeannine’s seven children, Claire Day, Dennis Hamm, George Hamm, Bobby Hamm, Marcel Hamm, Allan Hamm and Cathy Senio, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren,

were all present at their anniversary celebration at 452 Brenton Ave., Lower Nicola on April 22. Totally surrounded by loving family and many friends, it was also Jeannine’s 82nd birthday!

Thank YouThe family of Rick Isbister

would like to thank everyone who helped make the

Celebration of Life Special.

Employment

Business Opportunities

BC wholesale distribution fi rm seeking new products to add to their existing line up. We are currently distributing to approximately 500 retailers throughout BC. If you are interested in working with our company to distribute your products in BC, please reply to Box #14 Vernon Morning Star, 4407 25th Ave, Vernon BC V1T 1P5

Career Opportunities

ROAD BUILDER &FELLER BUNCHER

OPERATOR(Merritt)

ROAD BUILDER – Must be experienced in grades, culvert placement and install, ditching and sloping, and Forestry standard roads. Pay negotiable, full season work with benefi t package.

Feller Buncher Operator (Cat Buncher) – Full time Pay negotiable by exp. benefi t package.

Please fax resume(1)250-378-4991 or e-mail:kristy@bcclassifi ed.com

Drivers/Courier/Trucking

DRIVERS WANTED:Terrifi c career Opportunity with outstanding growth potential to learn how to locate rail defects. No Rail Experience Needed!! Skills Needed - Ability to travel 3 months at a time, Valid License w/ air brake endorsement.

Extensive Paid Travel, MealAllowance, 4 weeks Vacation

and Benefi ts Package.Compensation based on prior

driving experience.Apply at www.sperryrail.com

under careers, keyword Driver. DO NOT FILL IN CITY OR STATE

We require immediately Class 1 drivers for Canada and US for the following positions: • US Team drivers • Part Time /Casual Drivers for Cana-da/US • Drivers interested in a truck share program for Cana-da/US. We supply you with a paid company cell, fuel cards, all paid picks and drops, assigned units and regular home time. All you need is 3 yrs verifi able experience, clean abstract and a good attitude. Please indicate on your resume the position applying for. Please fax resumes and abstracts to 250-546-0600, or by email to [email protected] No phone calls please.

Help Wanted

Nicola Valley Museum

SUMMER STUDENTMust have excellent research, computer,

writing and oral communication skills.

Must have an enthusiasm for history, learning and

interacting with the public in a professional and con dent manner.

Student must meet

Canada Summer Jobs 2013 requirements.

Business casual

dress code in effect.

Please bring resume to the Museum.1675 Tutill Court

Monday to Friday 10 am to 3 pm.

Position is subject to funding

An Alberta Oilfi eld Construc-tion Company is hiring dozer, excavator, and labourer/rock truck operators. Lodging and meals provided. Drug testing required. Call Contour Con-struction (780)723-5051.

Employment

Help Wanted

NOW HIRINGDESK CLERK: Must be profi cient with computers and able to work fl exible hours

HOUSEKEEPER: Must be able to work fl exible hours.

Apply in person with resume to 3571 Voght St. NO PHONE CALLS

PLEASE.

Employment Facilitator

Open Door Group is looking for an

Employment Facilitator to join our team at the

Merritt WorkBC location on a Full Time Temporary

basis. The position involves facilitating job search and life skills workshops, assisting

clients to become job-ready and connecting

with local employers to create opportunities for

clients. Candidates must have previous facilitation experience and a good

understanding of the local labour market and

demonstrated networking and negotiation skills.

Please apply with resume and cover letter to

[email protected]

Happy Thoughts

Employment

Help WantedMAINTENANCE/LOADER OPERA-TOR NEEDED. This is a fulltime, permanent position starting immedi-ately at our plant in Princeton, BC. Minimum of 10 years maintenance experience required on a variety of production and mobile equipment. Experience in a post mill, or small to medium size sawmill preferred. Must be able to handle a variety of tasks, work well with minimum su-pervision and be part of the team. Please submit resumes by fax 250-295-7912 or email [email protected]

SUNRISE FORD 100 Mile House Requires Ford trained technicians & apprentices.Well equipped 11 bay shop, competitive wages & benefi tsE-mail Resume to Att; Helmut Loewen [email protected]

Warehouse/FactoryPRODUCTION SUPERVISOR We are looking for a self-motivated Pro-duction Supervisor for our busy wood post manufacturing and treat-ing facility in Princeton, BC. The successful candidate will be re-sponsible for employee training and development, quality and cost con-trol, production scheduling and safety. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3-5 years su-pervisory experience in an industrial production operation, a post mill or wood production facility preferred. Must have a high degree of re-sourcefulness, fl exibility and adaptability; and the ability to plan, organize, develop and interpret pro-grams, goals, objectives, policies and procedures, etc. Good leader-ship skills, and excellent interper-sonal and communication skills with a proven track record are required. Please email your resume to [email protected]. For further in-formation about our company visit our website at www.pwppost.com. Only those selected for interviews with be contacted.

Services

Financial ServicesGET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420.

www.pioneerwest.com

Need CA$H Today?

Own A Vehicle?Borrow Up To $25,000

No Credit Checks!Cash same day, local offi ce.www.PitStopLoans.com

1-800-514-9399

Happy Thoughts

Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

LOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENTEMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENTPLOYMENTEMPLOYME

EMPLOYMENTEverything you,re looking for is in the classifieds!

FIND EMPLOYMENT IN THE CLASSIFIEDSOFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

N.M.V. Lumber Ltd. is looking for a mature,organized and proactive full-time office administrator.

Duties include, but are not limited to: Accounts Pay-able, Accounts Receivable, government remittances, payroll, maintaining supplies inventory, reception and other general office duties.

Qualifications for this role include: at least 5 years bookkeeping and office administration experience, strong proficiency with Simply Accounting and MS Office Suite, excellent math skills, excellent verbal and written skills, ability to work independently and multi-task and a strong attention to detail.

Fax resumes to 250-378-5820 or via email in PDF format to [email protected]

No phone calls please. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. bcclassified.com

Anytime!Anytime!

SHOP ONLINE...


NNOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WWhen? TThursday

MMay 9, 22013

11:15 p.m.

FFor info & ssubmissionns

MMail

PPhone

EEmail

FFax

WWebsite www.tnrd.ca

The Board of Directors of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District gives notice that it will hold a Public Hearing in the TNRD Boardroom, 4th Floor - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC, to consider Regional Growth Strategy Amendment Bylaw No. 2409, 2013.

What is Regional Growth Strategy Amendment Bylaw No. 2409, 2013? It is a minor amendment to Regional Growth Strategy Bylaw No. 1767, 1999. The Regional Growth Strategy is a co-operative strategy for achieving a sustainable future for the region that affects all the land within the Regional District. Bylaw No. 2409 is based upon recent forecasts for population change, economic development and housing demand expected to affect the region over the next 20 years and updates the existing Strategy policy on this basis. Other changes include recognition of the Board’s 2011 greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and policies intended to reduce these emissions. No major changes are proposed.

Bylaw No. 2409, 2013, can be viewed at: https://tnrd.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=71738

All persons who believe that their interest in property may be affected by the proposed Bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the Public Hearing. Additionally, you may make written submissions (via any of the adjacent options) which must be received at our office prior to 10 a.m. on the 9th day of May, 2013.

How do I get More Information?

A copy of the proposed Bylaw and supporting information can be inspected from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday (except statutory holidays) at our office, from April 29th, 2013 until 1:15 p.m. the day of the Hearing; or please contact us via any of the adjacent options.

No representations will be received by the Board of Directors after the Public Hearing has been concluded.

R. Sadilkova, Director of Development Services

FOR RENT - 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTAvailable immediately.

$800/month incl. heat & laundry.

$100 OFF APRIL RENT for successful applicants

Newly renovated units“Clapperton Manor” 2775 Clapperton Ave.

New owner/manager. 250-315-8340

Houses For Sale Houses For Sale Services

Home Improvements

FLOORING SALEOver 300 Choices

Lowest Prices Guaranteed!Laminates - $0.59/sq ftEngineered - $1.99 sq ftHardwood - $2.79 sq ft

Overnight Delivery in most of BC!www.kingoffl oors.com

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Merchandise for Sale

Garage SalesYard Sale

Sunday May 52901 Petit Creek Road

8:00am - noon

Legal Notices


Heavy Duty Machinery

A-STEEL SHIPPING DRYSTORAGE CONTAINERS

Used 20’40’45’53 in stock.SPECIAL

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Call Toll Free AlsoJD 544 & 644 wheel loaders

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FIND EVERYTHING YOUNEED IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Legal Notices


Misc. for Sale

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/news-paper?

Misc. WantedTrue Coin Collector Looking to Purchase Collections, Accu- mulations, Olympic Gold and Silver coins, Bills + Not melting down, Serious Collector. Call: Coin Couple 1-778-281-0030

Apt/Condo for Rent

Legal Notices


Plants /NurserySPRUCE tree SALE!

Starting @ $69.-6’ft, Larger sizes available, 50 tree mini-mum order. Perfect for front yard, wind or privacy hedge. Call 1-778-436-8776 or email [email protected]

Real Estate

Acreage for SaleProperty for sale10 acres close to town on Coldwater Rd. 250-378-2927

Mobile Homes & Parks

RETIRE IN Beautiful Southern BC, Brand New Park. Af-fordable Housing. COPPER RIDGE. Manufactured Home Park, New Home Sales. Kere-meos, BC. Spec home on site to view. Please call 250-462-7055. www.copperridge.ca

Apt/Condo for Rent

Legal Notices

Rentals

Apt/Condo for Rent

The SummitApartments

2 bedroom suites available in March.

Brand New Building.

All Stainless Steel Appliances.

Accepting Applications

250.280.7644

No SmokingNo Pets

KENGARDMANOR

Ask about move-in incentives For appointment call

Ph: 250-378-9880

Spacious 1 & 3bedroom apartments.

F/S, heat and hotwater included.

Misc for Rent

MERRITT1988 Quilchena Ave.,

Merritt, BCApril 23, 2013

Applications are now being accepted for apartments, suites and houses. Many

assorted units coming available.

Call for more info onthese units and others call

250-378-1996Direct line to the PropertyManagement Department

Call for all of your Residentialor Commercial Property

Management needs!

MERRITT REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Property Manager: Lynda Etchart

1 bedroom Rainbow Apts. 1 bedroom Rainbow Apts. $575 inc utilities.$575 inc utilities.

2 bedroom Sandpiper. 2 bedroom Sandpiper. $750 plus utilities$750 plus utilities

2 bedroom Vibe Apt. 2 bedroom Vibe Apt. $825 plus utilities.$825 plus utilities.

1 bdrm house. 1 bdrm house. $700 plus utilities.$700 plus utilities.

1 bdrm apartment. 1 bdrm apartment. $575 plus hydro (x3)$575 plus hydro (x3)

1 bdrm apartment. 1 bdrm apartment. $600 plus hydro$600 plus hydro

1 bdrm townhouse. 1 bdrm townhouse. $625.00 plus hydro.$625.00 plus hydro.

2 bdrm fourplex. 2 bdrm fourplex. $750 plus hydro.$750 plus hydro.

2 bdrm quaint duplex. 2 bdrm quaint duplex. $725 plus utilities. (x2)$725 plus utilities. (x2)

3 bdrm duplex. 3 bdrm duplex. $900 including utilities.$900 including utilities.

2 bdrm in Sixplex in 2 bdrm in Sixplex in Lower Nicola. Lower Nicola.

$600 inc. utilities. $600 inc. utilities.

3 bdrm townhouse. 3 bdrm townhouse. $725 plus utilities.$725 plus utilities.

Mobile Homes & Pads

2 bedroom mobile home,available May 1st. Fridge, stove, washer, dryer included. Close to town, school and busline. Quiet family location.$950 per month utilities includ-ed. 250-378-0887

1-800-222-TIPS

bcclassified.comAnytime!Anytime!

SHOP ONLINE...

Keep your toddler safe in the car.

Learn how to install your child’s car seat correctly. Call 1-877-247-5551 or visit ChildSeatInfo.ca

“Grandma, we’re coming to visit!”

Drive to Save Lives


Guaranteed Approvals• Good Credit? • Bad Credit? • No Credit?

• Divorce? • Bankrupt?

IF YOU WORK,YOU DRIVE

Call Steve Today1.855.740.4112 • murraygmmerritt.com

Need a Vehicle? Call the

Transportation

Auto Financing

DreamTeam Auto Financing“0” Down, Bankruptcy OK -

Cash Back ! 15 min Approvals1-800-961-7022

www.iDreamAuto.com DL# 7557

Utility Trailers

Transportation

Cars - Domestic2007 PT Cruiser. Low Km and very clean. Asking $6800. 250-378-4490

Boat AccessoriesWell built steel boat rack box. Size 69” x 69.5”. Full over cab length 145.5” came off 1988 Ford F250. Well worth looking at $400 obo 604-792-9460

Auto Financing

Utility Trailers

Ray’s Pool Service

Call Ray Heffel nger for a FREE ESTIMATE

at (250) 320-4702

Quality Pools at Realistic Prices!Quality Pools at Realistic Prices!

New Pool Construction

Repairs and Service

Full Line of Accessories

Liner Replacement

POOL SERVICE

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JIM POJIM POTTER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE

• Fully insured,

certi ed faller

• WSBC covered

• Dangerous tree

assessment

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CALL JIM at 250-378-4212CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

Solutions for your tree problems!Solutions for your tree problems!

Schedule your FREE Estimate

TREE SERVICETERTET R

TT

inc.

CALL 250-315-5074

Let us help you get ready for SPRING!

REASONABLE RATES,

while using customers

time ef cientlyREASON

• Irrigation Activation

• Spring Clean-Up

• Aerating • Thatching

• Seeding • Fertilization

• Turf Installation

• Retaining Walls

• Parking Lot Sweeping

LANDSCAPELANDSCAPE

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FRANK’S MECHANICAL SERVICE

2026 Mamette Avenue 250-378-1322

FRANK S MECHANICAL SERVICE

026 Mamette Avenue 250-378-1322

OLD OR NEW WE HAVE THE EXPEREINCE TO REPAIR THEM ALL.• Tune Ups • Brakes • Exhaust• Suspension • Lube/Oil

•Radiator Service • Shocks & Struts• Air Conditioning Service

MECHANICMECHANICK’S MMMMMMMEECCCCCCCCHHHHHHHH

Campbell and Co. Chartered Accountants Over 40 Years Experience in providing professional service to all of our clients.

We are currently acccepting new clients and look forward to meeting with you about any of your accounting & taxation needs.We are confident our team will add value to your business by providing reliable and timely accounting services, allowing you more time to grow your business.

p l aiiin p

1988 Quilchena Ave. (Royal Lepage of ce)Merritt, BC V1K 1B8Phone: 778-257-4129e-mail: [email protected]

WE WILL BE IN MERRITT ON FRIDAYS!

ACCOUNTANTACCOUNTANTCampbbbellllllllllllllll aaaaaaaannp l a

Are you expanding your client base?Looking for an accessible way for people to nd you?

Contact Alisa/Theresa at 250-378-4241 or Email: [email protected]

JOIN the Herald’s “Local Business Directory” page Every Thursday, Always Full Colour! *with minimum 3 month committmentReach over 6330 readers each week.

AADVERTISINGADVERTISING

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Site Location: Airport Road, next to Valley Helicopters

For pick-up & product information: 250-378-9674 or 250-936-8363

www.goodearthcompany.ca

Good Earth Company COMPOST & MULCHThe Eco-Friendly Way To Enhance Your Soil

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Open To Public:Mon., Wed. & Fri:

10 am - NoonSaturdays:

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Business Directorywww.merrittherald.com THURSDAY, May 2, 2013 • 27

UNDERGROUND SPRINKLERSUNDERGROUND SPRINKLERSPAVING STONESPAVING STONES

RETAINING WALLSRETAINING WALLSTURF & WATER FEATURESTURF & WATER FEATURES

COMPLETE YARD MAINTENANCECOMPLETE YARD MAINTENANCE

(250) 378-7122

LANDSCAPELANDSCAPE

CFP Certifi ed Financial Planner CPCA Certifi ed Professional Consultant on Aging

It’s never too early to start planning for the future.

CFP Certifi ed Financial Planner CPCA Certifi ed ProfessionalConsultant on Aging

call me at: 250.315.0241

E-mail: [email protected]

Need help to create a plan to enjoy the life you desire today, & tomorrow?

➣Personalized Retirement Plans➣Detailed Risk Analysis➣Insurance & Estate Planning➣Strategic Retirement Analysis & much more

David L. Brown is here for you

NNNe

FINANCIAL ADVISORFINANCIAL ADVISOR

Nicola Plumbing & HeatingFully Quali ed Tradesmen in..

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.Service Work & Furnace Service.

Custom Sheet MetalAtlas RV Parts & Repairs

PHONE: 250-378-4943 2064 Coutlee Ave., Merritt, BC

PLUMBING & HEATINGPLUMBING & HEATING

LOGAN LAKE DENTAL CLINIC

General Family Dentistry

Logan Lake Mall • 250-523-6682

New Patients Welcome

NOW OPEN 4 DAYS A WEEK!

NEWMERRITTOFFICE

OPENINGSOON!

DENTALDENTALGAN LAAKKKKKEEE

Learn to Play PianoLearn to Play Piano

Brenda’s Piano

Studio

Phone 250.315.0340 for details

All Ages WelcomePIANO TEACHERPIANO TEACHER

250-378-7122

MOVING SOMEWHERE?Call for a FREE EstimateMERRITT MOVING & TRAILER RENTALS

LEAVE YOUR WORRIES BEHIND

Professional Staff - Fully Insured

MOVING SERVICEMOVING SERVICE

LUMBER SALESMERRITT LUMBER SALES2152 DOUGLAS ST., MERRITT, BC

250-378-5382 • 250-314-4249

HOURS OF OPERATION:HOURS OF OPERATION:Mon to Fri.: 8 am - 5 pm & Sat.: 8 am - 4 pmMon to Fri.: 8 am - 5 pm & Sat.: 8 am - 4 pm

SCREWS, NAILS, ROOFING, INSULATION, JOIST HANGERS

& much moreLARGE LANDSCAPING BEAMS AVAILABLE

BUILDING SUPPLIESMERRITTTTTMERRRMERRRITTTTTTT

BBBUBBBBBBU

IVAN’S SIDINGSALES & SERVICE• Vinyl & Hardie Board Siding• Aluminum Sof t, Fascia & Eavestroughs

“When others have come and gone, Ivan’s Siding is still going strong”

SERVING THENICOLA VALLEYFOR 40 YEARS!

CALL: (250) 378-2786

SIDINGSIDING

AUTO SERVICESAUTO SERVICES

MERRITT BC

• Client Computer Work Stations

• Access to Training • Job Search Assistance

• Employment Counselling • Career Exploration

• Resource Library • Workshops

T: 250.378.5151

2099 Quilchena Ave., Box 358 Merritt, BC www.merrittesc.ca

The Employment Program of British

Columbia is funded by the

Government of Canada and the

Province of British Columbia

EMPLOYMENT SERVICESEMPLOYMENT SERVICES

* NOW HIRING * NO

www.tbmcleaningandrestoration.com

TF: 1-877-612-0909

EMERGENCY FLOOD SERVICES• WATER REMOVAL • DRYING EQUIPMENT

• INSURANCE CLAIMS Working with insurance adjusters

to restore your home!

250-378-9410

FLOOD SERVICESFLOOD SERVICES

Bob’s Mini Mart

MONDAY - SATURDAY: 4 to 8 pm

ALL YOUR GROCERY NEEDS & MORE!2801 Clapperton Avenue • Ph: 250-378-6500

Samosa • Butter Chicken Curry and Goat Curry • & more!“The best Indian food I’ve ever had”

Customer Commentview menu at:

www.bobsminimart.com

INDIAN TAKEOUTEAST INDIAN TAKEOUT

Call for lunch or dinner

preorders

ETHNIC CUISINEETHNIC CUISINEPHOTOGRAPHERPHOTOGRAPHER

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

Call Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMATES: 250-378-4312

Gary’s Mini Excavating Service

email: [email protected]: 250-315-3174

EXCAVATINGEXCAVATINGGary’s MMMMMMM

Quality workmanship,

Outstanding Service.

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

Call for a FREE Estimate

JASON ARNOLD - Serving Merritt Since 2000

RENOVATIONS


Office Hours:

Monday - Friday

8:30 am - 4:30 pm

The clinic is open to all residents of the Nicola Valley & surrounding areas.

All Insurance Plans Accepted Family-friendly approach to all your dental needs.

~ paperless & digital x-ray~Newest Department of Scw'exmx Community Health

1999 Voght St., (next to the Credit Union)

PO Box 3090, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

Call Today to Book Your Appointment.

Ph: 250-378-5877

Stoyoma Dental Clinic

Dr. Gary McRae & his friendly staff are pleased to announce the opening of

Merritt's newest dental clinic.

Thompson Valley Erectors Ltd.Complete Mine Construction

Civil & Earth Works

Steel Erecting

Plant Upgrades

Piping Installations

Boiler Repairs

Pressure Vessels

Mechanical Installations

Head Office:

60 Vicars Road, Kamloops, BC,

V2C 6A4

Phone: 250.377.3533

[email protected]

www.tveltd.ca

‘A’ License Contractor

‘MA’ License

CanQual

ISNetworld

PICS Auditing

‘CWB’ Certified

2013 Mining Week: April 28 - May 4

As one of B.C.’s largest and longest-running industries, mining has made countless valuable contributions to the province’s economy and to the lives of British Columbians. B.C. Mining Week recognizes and celebrates those contributions and highlights the good work done by the modern industry.

The Legislature of British Columbia declares B.C. Mining Week every year, and this year, invites British Columbians to take part in the 25th year of celebrations. Since it began a quarter of a century ago, B.C. Mining Week has expanded around the province, bringing the celebrations with it to dozens of communities.

www.merrittherald.com B2 • THURSDAY, May 2, 2013

MINING WEEK

Regular Mine Tour Duration: 2.5 Hours The guided bus tour showcases various interest points of the mine site and includes a video presentation.

HVC is an industrial setting, casual dress isrecommended: pants, runners, and no open toed footwear.

Children under the age of 12 are not permitted on the daily tours.

CALL AHEAD to reserve your seat. Space is limited to a maximum of 20 persons per tour.

Tour time: 1 pm

Reserve Your FREE Tour Today 250-523-3802

Highland Valley Copper Mine ToursTours offered three days a week

Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 pm Starting May 23 & Ending August 23

or stop by our Annual Open House • Monday August 5th

Hwy 97C Logan Lake, BC

Monday, August 5th, 2013 Is our Family Day Open House Open to all ages with some age restrictions on various tours, the Open House is a day showcas-ing many aspects of the mine including ve different types of tours, many displays and family entertainment Open House Hours: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm

Visit One of the Largest Mining Operations in the WorldVisit One of the Largest Mining Operations in the World!!

Highland Valley Copper big contributor to the community

Mining benefits communities through providing local employ-ment and training, uti-lizing local goods and services, and investing in community develop-ment.

Teck Highland Valley Copper, one of the largest open pit copper mines in Canada, continues to

provide jobs and eco-nomic benefits to the Nicola Valley.

As it celebrates its 27th year in opera-tion, Highland Valley Copper continues to contribute to the local economy employing over 1,300 people and using many local ven-dors.

Highland Valley

Copper (HVC) is com-mitted to providing resources to support community develop-ment in the communi-ties where they operate. In 2012, HVC provided funding through dona-tions and sponsorship in excess of $450,000 to local charitable orga-nizations and educa-tion. HVC has a long-

standing relationship with the Thompson Nicola Cariboo United Way, which it supports through a match-ing program with employees. HVC is the largest corporate and employee supporter of the Thompson Nicola Cariboo United Way.

In 2012, the mine provided $279,000 to various communities’ initiatives by investing in sustainable projects.

When Nicola Family Therapy lost a $35,000 annual contract and was forced to close its doors on Fridays to make up for the lost funds, HVC came to the rescue. HVC con-tributed $35,000 to Nicola Family Therapy in Merritt. Nicola Family Therapy is a non-profit organization that provides counsel-ling to individuals, couples, and families to help break the cycle of abuse.

The donation allowed the centre to

keep their offices open from Monday to Friday and continue offering services to the com-munity.

Highland Valley Copper also contribut-ed $70,000 to Interior Salish Employment and Training Society (ISETS) to start up a driving school in the Nicola Valley for Class 5 and 7 licences.

HVC and ISETS recognized the impor-tance of providing an opportunity for rural community members to get their driver’s license in order to obtain and retain employment.

The driving school will be based out of Merritt but will bring licensing services to Lytton, Lillooet, and 16 aboriginal com-munities. Highland Valley Copper also contributed $15,000 to help with the construc-tion of the Cold Water Ranch Respite Lodge. The lodge, which is 20 minutes west of

Merritt, will feature a fully accessible lodge for individuals living with disabilities and their families, friends, and/or support staff who can all use the lodge at no charge, as can disability organiza-tions. In addition, HVC donated $10,000 to the Spences Bridge Fire Department to cover costs for turnout gear, a trauma bag, extinguish-ers and training. With these partnerships, HVC is demonstrating that they are continu-ing to build relation-ships towards building health and vibrant communities.

This spring, Highland Valley Copper was recog-nized with a Milestone Achievement Award from Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops for the diverse range of oppor-tunities they have pro-vided to students and alumni. Students often train on equipment

donated by HVC and several TRU alumni are employed in trades and professional fields at the mining opera-tion. HVC has estab-lished ongoing student co-op programs in vari-ous departments of the mine as well.

When you think of mining, you most likely think of heavy equipment and land disturbance. HVC has a long-term successful reclamation program that has contributed to the creation of produc-tive habitat in areas that have been previ-ously mined. Although thousands of trees have been planted in these areas, it is a chal-lenge for the company because the soil that remains often has a poor structure and doesn’t hold water well. It also often lacks many of the nutrients required to feed the new seedlings.

Reclamation at Highland Copper is about achieving various end land use objectives such as wildlife habitat.

See “Highland” Page 7

www.merrittherald.com THURSDAY, May 2, 2013 • B3

MINING WEEK

Harry Laliharrylali.bcndp.ca

Merritt 250.378.6755

BRITISH COLUMBIA WAS BUILT ON ITS RESOURCE WEALTH.

Authorized by Dean Morrison, Financial Agent, 250.378.6697

Vote Change for the Better

VOTE Harry Lali X

We need to continue to support the mining industry and partner

with industry, labour and communities to train local workers to

fi ll local vacancies. Improve mine development opportunities by

enhancing the Environmental Assessment process so certifi cation

decisions are reached in a more timely fashion.

for workers

“Mining brings prosperity to the people who work within it and to

the communities we live in”

ffff kkkkUNITY AND STRENGTH

Mineral tax revenue sharing agreement reached

A new revenue-sharing agreement between the Upper and Lower Similkameen Indian Bands and Copper Mountain Mine will see mineral tax from the mine shared between the bands and the province.

The Economic and Community Development Agreement also includes a con-sultation process with the two bands for future activity and operation of the mine.

“Our Smelqmix and Syilx Chiefs and Councils have been petitioning the prov-ince to share the wealth of the resources in our territo-ries for a long time,” Upper Similkameen Indian Band Chief Charlotte Mitchell said in a press release.

“We see this agreement as a small step in the right direc-tion. It will be very beneficial to our elders and children and our future generations. Many thanks to all of our people that had a part in getting us to this day.”

The Mineral Tax Act was established in 1990 and has been amended several times.

The province can get its share of mining revenue from a 13 per cent cut of the producer’s profit (once the producer has recuperated startup costs and had a reasonable return on investment) over the life of the mine, or mines can pay out two per cent of their operating cash flows each year.

“Revenue sharing is the con-

cept that our ancestral leaders agreed to in 1910 through the Sir Wilfred Laurier Memorial where revenues for resources would be shared on a govern-ment-to-government basis,” Lower Similkameen Indian Band Chief Robert Edward said in the release. “As a cost of doing business, proponents will be expected to fulfil their obli-gation to contribute to indig-enous peoples for the resources being extracted from portions of traditional territory in which they operate.”

In 2011, mining contributed $9.9 billion to the provincial economy when copper and coal prices peaked. That num-ber dropped to $9.2 billion in 2012.

This is the fifth agreement that pertains to mining rev-enues between the B.C. gov-ernment, First Nations, and industry.

It’s the thirteenth agree-ment with First Nations since September 2011.

‘As a cost of do-ing business, pro-ponents will be

expected to fulfi l their obligation to... indigenous

peoples.’— LOWER SIMILKAMEEN

CHIEF ROBERT EDWARD

Upper and Lower Similkameen Indian Bands will benefi t from Copper Mountain Mine mineral taxes


MINING WEEK

2775 Marian Avenue, Merritt, B.C. 250-378-1366No heat? Try Flushing BEFORE REPLACING

NV Radiators Are Proud To Have Worked With TheMining Industry For Many Years, For All Of Their Radiator NeedsNICOLA VALLEY RADIATOR Big or small we fi x them all!

• Logging, mining trucks & automotive• Air conditioning & coolant fl ushing

• Full service & repair of air conditioning units• Recore radiators• Repair radiators

• Custom built radiators• Heater cores: new and recore

• Flushing (power)Free

Estimates Shuttle Service

Mesabi radiator authorized repair facility & sales.

Air conditioning mobile unit.

SERVICING ALL MAKES AND MODELS. NO DISTANCE TOO FAR TO SERVE YOUR NEEDS!

BIG RIG Visitors at a recent Teck Highland Valley Copper open house look tiny compared to the 793 haulage trucks, which are used to transport ore to the crushers. These trucks can carry up to 240 tonnes.


MINING WEEK

www.lordco.com

AutomotivePaint & BodyHi PerformanceIndustrialToolsEquipmentMarine

R.V. SuppliesChemicalsMachine Shop ServicesPaint & Body ShopEquipment RepairWeldingand much more

ALPHADESIGN

SHOP: PARTS:

TOLL FREE:www.alpha-weld.com

“If you can dream it, we can build it!”

SHOP:

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CRANE SERVICE:

Copper Mountain enters bright second quarterCopper Mountain

Mine is on track to meet its quota of 80 million pounds of copper as the mine enters a promising second quarter, Chief Financial Officer Rod Schier said.

“The mine is in a ramp-up stage,” Schier said. “It’s continued to improve quarter by quarter. From our first quarter, we were behind a little bit, but we’re expecting the copper grade to continue and we’re expecting a higher grade to come in later in the year, so we feel we’ll be able to make up any shortfalls we may have had from the first quarter. In February, we saw availability increase

significantly, to where we finally got above capacity.”

Schier said some challenges in the first three months of 2013, including electrical maintenance, main-tenance on the tailing line and problems with grates, meant the com-pany faced a shortfall in production, but that high-energy blasts to increase finds is one of the interim solutions to making that shortfall up.

“We did some high-energy blasting where we put more force into the blast to create more finds in the pit,” Schier explained. “That seemed to help through-put as well. Since the

first week of March, we’ve seen a significant increase in tonnage through the mill. You can’t just take our 80 million pounds and divide it by four because it’s in a ramp-up situa-tion, but now we’re in the mode where we can just be improving production and increas-ing cash flow for all the stakeholders. A lot of the issues are behind us, if not all of them. Now it’s just getting as much tonnage through the plant as you can and producing as much cop-per as you can.”

Copper Mountain Mine began operation in June 2011, and was originally projected

to have a 17 year life. However, as improve-ments and exploration continue, Schier said that anticipated mine life may increase.

“We announced some exploration results just recently that show extended mineralization beneath the planned super pit a couple hun-dred metres already, and we’re going to continue with that exploration program as cash flow permits,” he said.

The mine employs just under 400 people who reside mainly in the Princeton area, and an additional workforce of 35 summer students who began work in the last few days.

Schier said there were more than 100 applicants for the stu-dent positions.

“We try to encour-age students of parents who work in the mine to see what their parents do,” he said. “They get a taste of what it’s like in the mine and they do a lot of different jobs. Mining is very impor-

tant to the province and provides the revenue for the hospitals, the schools, roads, all these things. They get to see that.”

Schier said it’s encouraging to see the $35 million improve-ments to the mine pay off in copper production as a first-dollar industry for the province.

“It’s a big moving machine and there’s a lot of different things going on,” Schier said of the industry. “That’s why we want people to know that when they go to school and turn on the lights, it’s mining. When they sit at their desks and work, it’s min-ing. It’s very important to the province.”

Promising production increases mean a good future for the mine

DID YOU KNOW?Exploration spending by survey participants, including greenfield exploration and exploration on developing and produc ng properties, increased by 113 per cent from $203 million in 2010 to $431 million in 2011.

— PricewaterhouseCoopers, Forging Ahead: The mining industry in British Columbia 2011


MINING WEEK

PRINTING SUPPLIES

PRINTING SERVICES

DIGITAL COLOUR AND BLACK & WHITE COPIES

We have printing services and offi ce supplies that you may not realize exist!

1951A Garcia Street

250.378.6808

www.merrittprinting.ca

Offi ce SuppliesPrinters & Toners

Jackie TegartBC Lib l C did

Kid’s Corner

Word SearchACCIDENT

BEDBLASTCAGE

CAVE IN DIG

DUSTYHARDHAT

HOISTINSPECTOR

RESCUESAFETYSEAM

TIMBER TRAM

TUNNELVEIN

WHISTLE

Circle the 18 words listed below. Words appear straight across, back-word

straight across, up and down, down and up, and diagonally.


MINING WEEK

Dan Albas, MPWorking Hard for

Okanagan-Coquihalla

Your MP Available to You

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

STANDING UP FOR MINING IN OTTAWA

Highland Valley CopperCelebrates Mining Week - As Partners in the Community

At Teck Highland Valley Cooper, we consider people, the environment and our communities of interest with every decision we make. For the past 27 years Highland Valley Copper has played a major role in the local economy and the mine employs over 1,300 people. Wages and benefits for the last year totaled $169 million. The spin-off benefit of that money goes towards local services, stores and businesses.

Teck is Committed to Community InvestmentIn 2012 HVC provided funding through donations and sponsorship in excess of $450,000 to local charitable organizations and education. Through our Community Partnership Initiative an additional $279,000 was contributed to non-profit organizations and other initiatives that strengthen our communities.

Learn more about our operation by joining us at “Mining Day” in Kamloops May 11, 2013 Big Little Science Center • Free Admission985 Holt Street • 11am-4pm

Learn about Highland Valley Copper’s recycling program.Bring your used household zinc alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D and 9-volt) and we will recycle them at our Teck Trail Operations.

We are committed to engaging with communities to ensure that all questions and concerns are being heard. With that in mind we have established a number of channels of communication. We can be reached by Email: [email protected] or Toll Free Telephone: 1-855-523-3429

And where there is open space and some green leaves to munch on, the deer and moose frequenting the area will eat their fill, creating a challenge for those newly planted trees and bushes to grow to matu-rity. To deal with this, HVC established a two-hectare area on an inac-tive tailings pond into which it mixes biosolids and wood chips into the tailings materials. Those elements were

chosen because they improve soil structure and moisture availability and are readily avail-able at the mine. The biosolids coming up from Metro Vancouver are used in the reclama-tion program and the wood chips are created from logging in the area. Wood chips were also put on top of the area to create mulch that keeps the adjacent grasslands from moving into the site and com-peting with the young trees. A fence was built

around the area to keep wildlife and marmots out and further protect the seedlings. The trial site was planted with various trees including aspen, willow, cotton-wood and dogwood and will be monitored in coming years to deter-mine the program’s success.

In 2012, HVC part-nered with TRU on an American Pika research study that involved map-ping their distribution, documenting popula-tion demographics and

dispersal, and studying Pika’s relationships to vegetation in natural and reclaimed areas.

Highland Valley Copper continues to strive to become an industry leader in both community develop-ment and environmen-tal programs. HVC is opening its doors for a community celebra-tion on Monday, Aug. 5 where the public is encouraged to learn more about the mine’s operation and take a tour.

From Page 2

Highland Valley Copper helping out

Highland Valley Copper, which employs over 900 people from Kamloops, Merritt, Logan Lake and the area, is committing to forming strong community partnerships. The three domes above feature elements of Canada’s flag and stand at the heart of Teck’s HVC opera-tion. The $25 million project provides a cover for the coarse ore piles, significantly reducing fugitive dust emissions from the operation supporting Teck’s commitment to sustainability.


MINING WEEK

for a

in support ofBC Mining Week: April 28-May 4B

Wor

king together st

ronger future

www.merritt.ca

Mining and the environment

The mining industry in B.C. has established environ-mental protection as a priority objective in the development, operation and closure of mines in the province.

In its ongoing efforts to update and improve environ-mental-protection measures, the industry contributes to the advancement of the scientific understanding of mining’s effect on the environment, as well as to the development of technology that will help mini-mize environmental impacts.

The benefits of minerals and mining in the world are indisputable.

Metals are essential to life on Earth — but they can also pose a threat to the environ-ment if they occur in certain forms (chemical states) and under specific environmental conditions.

Debate is focused on what is environmentally safe and in determining acceptable levels of risk versus benefit.

Nowadays, many stake-holders are involved in provid-

ing input into how mines are developed — mineral produc-ers, regulators and the public.

Risk-management deci-sions are arrived at in a consultative manner, with an appropriate weighing of the benefits and risks.

With the challenge of producing profitable mining operations in an environmen-tally-sound manner, practices and regulations have evolved to ensure environmental pro-tection.

Mining in British Columbia is regulated at both the provincial and federal levels.

Throughout the life cycle of a mine, regulatory and monitoring processes ensure the industry complies with society’s environmental objec-tives.

These objectives are estab-lished primarily through laws and regulations, but they are also set out in commitments made by mining companies during the environmenta-lassessment process.

Safety the key for miningThe mining industry

remains one of the safest heavy industries in B.C.

There have been no fatali-ties in B.C. mine operations since September 2009 and all industry members are com-mitted to doing everything possible to make sure mine workers go home healthy every day.

Mining Association of B.C. members work with the chief inspector of mines and his team of mine inspectors to ensure the highest safety stan-

dards are met, that improve-ments that can be made are made, and that lessons learned from incidents that do occur are shared across the industry.

The mining industry is governed by a suite of pro-vincial legislation covering everything from equipment operation and camp condi-tions to personal protective equipment and the use of natural resource roads.

WorkSafe BC rates are on the rise across the board and this largely reflects the change

in the value of the insurance corporation’s financial port-folio that supports ongoing claim costs.

While the individual per-formance at each operation varies from year to year, there has not been a negative trend in the mining industry’s safety performance overall.

While there is always room to improve, the mining indus-try is leading the way on safety practices for heavy industry in B.C.

The mining industry is also

prepared for the worst-case scenarios that it hopes it will never face.

Each mine site is required to have at least two exits, safe areas stocked with emergency supplies, radio communication equipment, and a well-trained team of emergency respond-ers.

Workers keep their safety skills sharp through mine-rescue competitions held each year, which are overseen by the province’s chief inspector of mines.

KICK THE TIRES A large haulage truck is used to haul ore to the crushers at Highland Valley Copper.

Merritt Herald, May 02, 2013

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Transcript of Merritt Herald, May 02, 2013