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TEGART PREPS FOR NEW JOB PAGE 3

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Heroic rescue on Nicola River Merritt RCMP officers risk lives after woman jumps into river By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

Two Merritt RCMP officers are being hailed as heroes after saving a couple from the Nicola River on Friday morning. Around 10:30 a.m., officers received a call from a 49-year-old man who said his girlfriend was in distress and threatening to jump

into the river in an apparent suicide attempt. When the officers arrived a short time later, they tried to talk to the 47-year-old woman, but she jumped in the river. The woman’s boyfriend then jumped in after her to save her, but ended up needing rescuing from the fast-flowing, high river himself.

Const. Brock Hedrick jumped in the river with his life jacket on while his partner readied the throw bag, which contains a rope to pull people back to land. “One officer went in with his life jacket and the second one used the throw bag and pulled the three of them out,” RCMP Const. Tracy Dunsmore said, adding that all police cars have lifejackets and

throw bags in them. Hedrick caught up with the woman just before the confluence of the Nicola and Coldwater Rivers. Dunsmore said the incident could’ve ended differently if the officers hadn’t reacted so quickly at the scene. “It’s probably a good thing he called before she jumped in, because it could’ve been a little bit

different of a scenario,” Dunsmore said. There were no physical injuries. The woman was taken to the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre for evaluation. “I am very proud of my officers who risked their lives to help these people in serious distress,” Staff Sgt. Sheila White said in a press release.

NVIT graduates honoured at local ceremony By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

Amy Brinson (right) and Jennifer Collins (centre), Bachelor of Social Work Degree graduates (joint program with Thompson Rivers University). listen attentively to speeches from dignitaries at the NVIT graduation ceremony on May 16. Emily Wessel/Herald

Seventy-one graduates of the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology received their degrees and diplomas on May 16 at the Merritt Civic Centre at a ceremony attended by the NVIT elders, MLA elect Jackie Tegart, Mayor Susan Roline, and graduates’ friends and families. Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn A-inchut Atleo attended the luncheon before the graduation ceremony. “Your success is our success,” Merritt Mayor Susan Roline said in her speech to the graduates. Nooaitch Indian Band chief Joyce Sam — a graduate of the first NVIT class — recounted the school’s humble beginnings from the administration building of the Lower Nicola Indian Band 30 years ago. The school’s roughly 1,500 students represent over 60 per cent of the First Nations in B.C. NVIT President Ken Tourand commended the graduates on their years of hard work, and said the school is open for registration for the next slate of courses beginning in the fall.

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May 23, 2013

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS MERRITT AND DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

VOLUNTEER TRAINING WORKSHOP Friday June 14 evening Saturday & Sunday June 15 & 16 days LOCATION: Adult Day Centre, Gillis House COST: $50 PLEASE PRE-REGISTER For further information contact Maureen at 250-280-4040 Open to everyone, but potential volunteers will be given priority

HAVING A BALL Merritt Central Elementary School had a fun day on May 10, which was organized by the school’s parent advisory committee. Above, April Morel takes aim at teacher Natasha Omori. Below, Maxwell Bose and A.J. Bara Canadien compete in the sack race. Craig Lindsay/Herald

OPEN HOUSE Celebrate our Grand Opening of the LN Eco-Depot Tuesday, May 28th 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 am 2348 Woodward Road There will be tours, snacks & light refreshments and give-aways!

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THURSDAY, May 23, 2013 • 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Tegart talks first term as MLA elect By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

As the new MLA for Fraser-Nicola, Jackie Tegart knows she’ll have a lot to learn in the coming months, but she’s excited about the process. This week, Tegart is meeting with Premier Christy Clark and other elected members of the BC Liberal Party in Vancouver to debrief about the election and plan out the next several months as the province’s majority government. “I don’t really know what to expect, but I think it’ll be interesting to talk about how the election went, what worked, and where we go next,” Tegart said from the road. “Certainly, it’ll be very helpful for me to see and meet all the successful candidates and talk about what the next four to six months look like.” Tegart said two days of meetings on Wednesday and Thursday mark the beginning of busy upcoming

weeks. When she returns to Ashcroft tomorrow, Tegart will work on getting her constituency office up and running. “My expectation is that we’ll be looking at schedules and having some discussions about when the swearing-in ceremony will be and what that process is,” she said. “I hope to come out of the meetings with a clearer picture of what the next six weeks look like, and that’ll help me in looking at how best to meet with people in the constituency and move on that agenda.” Tegart was in Merritt last Thursday for the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology graduation ceremony, just two days after she was elected to represent the riding at the B.C. legislature. The Ashcroft Liberal unseated the NDP’s Harry Lali, who previously held the Fraser-Nicola seat for 17 years, in the 40th B.C. election. “We knew going in that

it was going to be a tough race because Fraser-Nicola has been NDP for a long time and served by an incumbent for a long time, but our goal was to give people a choice,” Tegart said the day after the election. She said the provincial momentum of the Liberals on election night was encouraging, although it came as a surprise to many. Tegart grew up in a mining family and has lived in Ashcroft for 50 years. She sat on the Gold Trail School Board for 17 years and served as the president of the BC School Trustees Association. She is also serving her third term as a city councillor for Ashcroft. Tegart also worked in economic development as a self-employment co-ordinator for Community Futures Development Corporation and as the facilitator of the BC Healthy Communities program in the Interior. Throughout her campaign, Tegart said jobs and

GOOD MORNING! Opinion ------------------------------------------ 6-7 Business ------------------------------------------ 10 Sports ------------------------------------------20-21 Classifieds ------------------------------------23-26

MLA Jackie Tegart (in blue) stands with supporters at her campaign headquarters in Ashcroft on election night.

the economy were two of the most common concerns she heard from constituents. “I think Fraser-Nicola is very concerned about jobs,” she said. “If people aren’t working, communities aren’t healthy. It’s about jobs and the economy. A lot of our

businesses are hurting. How do we build that economy? That’ll be the challenge for a resource-based riding.” Tegart added she is excited to learn the provincial political ropes over the next four years. This is her first term serving as MLA.

City and resident butt heads over illegal garden suite By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

A local woman and the City of Merritt are clashing over the woman’s rented house, which the city says is an illegal suite. Many houses in the area have suites for rent, but this suite does not fit the zoning criteria because it is a standalone building. For the suite to be legal, the landlord would have to file a zoning amendment application with the City of Merritt, which would then go through a three- to six-month consultation process to legalize it. “That’s full-on public participation, advertising, a referral process, a council decision, the whole bit,” City of Merritt Planning and Development Services Manager Sean O’Flaherty said. “In this case, they have what’s called a detached secondary suite. That’s illegal. It’s illegal because you can’t have one without a zoning amendment.” O’Flaherty said the city has records that show that City of

Merritt Bylaw Services Officer Bob Davis said he had to tell a couple to move out of the same suite last summer. The suite was decommissioned as a living space before because the cooking facilities were removed, which, in the city’s eyes, rendered the space unliveable. After that, the city assumed nobody was living in there. However, Bertha Hanschke moved into the house in January. The house came back up on the city’s radar when Hanschke called the fire department because of a smoking pot left on the stove. When members of the fire department showed up, they arrived at the main house at the front of the property, and had no answer — because the smoke was in the back suite. “The whole issue came to a head when the fire department showed up, and that’s the exact reason why there’s not a cottage house allowed there. It has no address,” Davis said. “In an emer-

gency, there is no way to find that place.” Davis said it’s not Hanschke’s fault, but the suite could pose other risks to her living there. “The other thing is, it has no occupancy permit,” Davis said. “That means there have been no inspections on this unit - no inspections by fire, no inspections by the building inspector, no inspections by electrical or plumbing to make sure there’s no dangers there. If firefighters knew that there was a person or two or three in there, they would possibly risk sending a firefighter in, and risk more than if it was just a garage burning. This is the issue with these illegal suites.” Davis said the city is going to decommission the suite once and for all, which may include cutting off utilities to the property. “Our only issue is, we have the zoning bylaw that says she can’t live there, and we’re going to uphold that,” Davis said. But Hanshke said she can’t move out because of her health

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problems and because she lives on pensions. “I have a heart condition, I have all kinds of health problems, and I’m very weary. I’m also heading towards 80 years old,” she said, adding that she was trying to get a note from the doctor saying that moving will jeopardize her health. “I can’t afford to live just anywhere and I can’t afford to move to begin with.” Hanschke said she just finished unpacking last week because her health conditions have slowed her down that much, and that she is physically unable to move again. “We’re not causing anybody any problems,” she said. “I don’t care what the house was built as. It’s a two-bedroom house with all the amenities and a really neat landlord who wants me to stay there for the rest of my days because of my age, my health and everything else.” The landlord said he has no comment until he meets with bylaw services.

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• MERR ITT NEWS PAPER S

ood Preven tion Plan

By Staff

THE HERAL

newsroom@ Flood Prevent D merrittherald ion Plan .com is proacti In a press and vely plannin Thursday, release sent out on event flood protect g in the said they the City of Merritt along the ion measur had been by the Ministr es the city, Nicola River, advised within are y of Forests, Lands and can protect required. Residen their propert Operations Natural Resour ts followin g ies by inflow to that the currentce the Emergethe advice offered ncy Manag on tinuing Nicola Lake is British Colum to conement therefore, exceed outflow embc.gov.bc.cabia’s website they anticipa ; : Nicola River “As it stands . will rise te the bank-fu now we’re ting to near ready ll getcity. This levels through at us,” said for whatever the comes McKeo rent weatheis a result of have to the curbe ready wn. “We’ll r trend storage Mother for what in Nicola and flood Nature consum Lake being throws McKeo ed. wn warns at us.” keep a respect “The residen is currentinflow into the river banks ful distanc ts to lake e from outflow,” ly exceeding the and animals and keep children emergencysaid Sky McKeo “River safe. wn, nator for program co-ordi pery and banks may be when combin slip“We’re the City of Merrittwith fast-mo expecting ving water, ed few days over the . potential that as the pose a next hazard,” slows going river rate he The City into the of Merrittadded. hope at residents lake, we some urges what we’re point it meets River or living along the then, we’re releasing. Until area to travelling throughNicola be seeing the River as damaging alert for potenti the Nicola ally flows or Merritt, it flows through tions obstrucwhich rise to city hall should be reporte In responsup.” e, the at 378-42 Merritt d Additio 24. has implem City of nally, to pay attentioresidents are ented its n to local urged for current media informa tion.

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By Craig Lindsay THE HERAL Park and newsroom@ D merrittherald a new water .com ment building At the treatworks yard. at the public Council Merritt City meeting 14, council The public on May had a chance to view accept the lors voted to the questions plan and ask financia new five year l staff at to council and 2013-17 plan for the city an open city . for meeting consultation Counci on April 23. times and l had met several At a special meeting followin propose discussed the the g d passed andday, councillors includes budget, which such items 2013 tax adopted the lacrosse rates box and as a new per cent sion/wa The rates for the city. shrooms concesresult in $119,62 from 2012, or for Central an overall municip 0. increase All tax rates will revenue by 0.65 increase al tax for each per cent of 2.25 and class of within the property City of Merritt.

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board which up doin ended that’s is someth g, not ing spreadin was Rather done all the time. than have or light across g it industry residential industry or heavy the everyon pay a little more, board.’ e takes a a little

industry and more which brings busines to Merritt more people s, have to . Therefore, we offer parks and things such hit rather bit as —COUN to attract recreation centres groups takingthan one or of . DAVE B AKER the brunt.”two they’re people, otherwi Baker “I think going ger centres to go to big-se taxes is said the raising was very the process importa of good,” said Kamloo like Kelowna nt Merritt Coun. Dave ps compet to keep here, whichand commute or we ended Baker. “What “We have itive. isn’t services help us have to spreading up doing, was we a whole going to provide,” it out across lot.” “The way he said. Baker the increase said the tax down is to get taxes is reasona to bring ticularly in more compar ble, pared to cities similar in size to Merritt .

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• City implements Flood Prevention Plan The City of Merritt has been advised by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations that the current inflow to Nicola Lake is continuting to exceed outflow.

• Concert supports hospital fundraiser A local boy is hoping a concert featuring five local musical acts will help him reach his $10,000 fundraising goal for BC Children’s Hospital.

• New horticulture class passed by SD58 board • Elementary schools begin track meets Upsidedownright

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4 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

May 23, 2013

City looks at $1,000 parking lot sign This can be absorbed through Public Works’ signage budget, or through the economic development budget, or with use of the Parking Development Reserve Fund.

The following is an excerpt from the City of Merritt regular council meeting agenda from April 15, 2013. Executive summary One of the responsibilities of a municipality is to ensure there is enough parking, particularly in the city’s core, where visitors and local citizens tend to concentrate. To achieve this, it is important for the city to use and promote all of its assets to their fullest potential. The off-street parking on Garcia and Granite is a prime example of an asset that can be used to encourage people to congregate in the city centre for shopping, dining, exploring, and visiting. Through appropriate signage and exposure, the City of Merritt can support the usage and improvement of the parking space. Improving the parking lot through signage will enhance the property and awareness of visitors, businesses, and patrons of all kinds and will contribute to downtown revitalization. Using minimal funding from our Merritt Parking Development Reserve Fund, we can provide convenient parking thus promote the city centre with minimal cost through existing funding sources. Purpose For the City of Merritt to promote the downtown through the availability of off-street parking and appropriate signage to encourage visitors, patrons and

Financial Implications The cost of the sign is about $1,000. Funding this project would be through the City of Merritt Parking Development Reserve Fund, which has $65,800 in available funding.

PROGRAMS OFFERED at the CIVIC CENTRE

**Girls Only** Swim N Slumber - $30 (8-12 yrs) Friday, May 24, 8 pm to Saturday, May 25, 9 am Babysitter’s Course $60 (11+) Sunday’s May 26 – June 9 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Food Safe Level 1 - $81 (14+) Saturday, May 25 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Photography Classes - $36 (14+) Tuesday, June 4 – 25 6:30 – 7:30 pm FREE Co-Ed Basketball Drop-in @ Diamond Vale Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Friday 4:30 – 6 pm Grades 6/7 If you would like more information on these classes call 250-315-1050

City council heard that the plan to put a City of Merritt sign at this parking lot could contribute to downtown revitalization at its regular meeting on April 15.

employees to park and explore the businesses and other services available in our city centre. It will also ensure our assets are improved and supported for their intended purpose. Policy One of the organizational policies from the Official Community Plan is to build a strong city centre of which offstreet parking is a necessary component. Offstreet parking is critical

because it contributes to a thriving downtown. Background This parking lot is city-owned and is the former home to City Hall and at one time, home of the fire department. Since then, it has remained as an asphalt parking lot, usually empty. In the last year, however, it has been used more frequently. Public Works has already added this property to their program of line

painting this year, so it will benefit from proper parking stalls. In order to continue to see more activity in this parking space and the city centre, the City of Merritt needs to invest in the awareness and development of this asset. In order to maximize our returns, signage, awareness and other improvements need to be implemented. Budget The signage costs are considered minimal.

Merritt

SILENT AUCTION OF NT EXCESS CITY EQUIPME Wednesday, May 29 – Civic Centre Auction will open to the public at 8:30 AM for viewing and bidding. Bids accepted until 11:30 AM Successful Bidders will be contacted as quickly as possible after 11:30 AM Payment & Pickup must be complete by 3:00 PM The next highest bidder will be contacted for any items not picked up by 3:00 PM

ACTIVITIES: Week of May 21, 2013

Ê Pothole Repairs Ê Water Service Installs Ê Sign Repairs www.merritt.ca

Next council meeting: Tuesday, May 28, 2013 Council agendas and minutes at www.merritt.ca

•

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ITEMS AVAILABLE INCLUDE:

Vehicles, Bikes, Computers, Dirt Bike, PlayStation plus lots of other interesting stuff. All items sold as is, where is. Complete list of items available at City Hall on May 28.

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

THURSDAY, May 23, 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ 5

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

PRESENT

City prepares to place sandbags along Nicola River By Craig Lindsay

that the inflow to Nicola Lake was exceeding its outflow. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With this trending weather pattern calling for heavy rainfall â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the Interior, and in particular, the Nicola watershed will be getting its fair share of precipitation,â&#x20AC;? said Sky McKeown, emergency co-ordinator for the City of Merritt on Tuesday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The total estimated downfall will reach somewhere around 75 millimetres over the

THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

With rain expected in Merritt over the next several days, crews are preparing to put sandbags along certain parts of the Nicola River in preparation for the rising river. On May 16, the City of Merritt implemented their Flood Prevention Plan after the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations indicated

next five days. The information from our hydrologist, as well as Environment Canada, is that we need to get our precautionary measures in place.â&#x20AC;? McKeown said the city has put the sandbag machine â&#x20AC;&#x153;in motion.â&#x20AC;? He expects by Thursday, crews will begin bagging sand and placing them along the low points of Nicola River. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We do this pretty much every flood season,â&#x20AC;? he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;in hopes

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that if the river comes up, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be ready for it. With Nicola Lake as high as it is, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seeping into its flood storage. The ministryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hydrologist has recommended we take these precautionary measures because if they have to open up the dam due to this rain flowing down creeks into the lake â&#x20AC;&#x201D; theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to give Nicola River a bit more. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to cause any damage out at the dam.â&#x20AC;?

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Water advisory committee put on hold Quorum dictates that 50 per cent of the people in the committee must be present at a meeting or the meeting is cancelled. If quorum is not met for three meetings, the committee is disbanded. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all volunteer on these committees. A volunteer didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the direction council was going,â&#x20AC;? said Coun.

By Craig Lindsay THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

At the Merritt City Council meeting on May 14, council debated what direction to take with the Water Resource Advisory Committee (WRAC). The committee has had members resign recently and has been unable to reach a quorum at meetings.

Mike Goetz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The committee member didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think that council was taking them serious.â&#x20AC;? One of the most important issues for the Water Resource Advisory Committee is the installation of water meters into all Merritt households. The water meters help insure each household will be able to prop-

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erly monitor and conserve water. The two WRAC members who resigned were unhappy with an apparent lack of support from council in regard to long-term water conservation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It just doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen overnight,â&#x20AC;? said Goetz.

See â&#x20AC;&#x153;waterâ&#x20AC;? Page 7

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Donations desperately needed for spay and neuter services. Donations can be to made to The Angelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s g Animal Rescue S Society y at The Interior S Savings g C Credit Union, account #1193739. S OF 2012 TOP 12 ALBUM2 PAGE

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the province. comthere Tim Petruk â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then I guess who they lady was another to go in first,â&#x20AC;? decided had KTW from told had gone Geraldine bed at RIH. If everything schedule, her hospital they according to David and â&#x20AC;&#x153;By the time it was Geraldine in, not be the brought me James would of the first 11 or 11:30.â&#x20AC;? proud parentsB.C. in 2013. about surgery went as in The baby born little David the firstplanned and Joe James â&#x20AC;&#x201D; For starters, from Merritt Junior Ricky 11 ounces time parents to welall eight pounds, the were not supposed of joy entered bundle of him â&#x20AC;&#x201D; come their a.m. Jan. until world at 12:02 Baby James into the worldthe due date That made 9, which was Geraldine 2013, not only the first of B.C. doctors gave out she was at RIH, but in all of found she after Geraldine Since then, a pregnant. changed and said, there have been But, things interviews doctors decidflurry of media all of the those same the James go over and above with being ed to have Hospital stuff that comes to Royal Inland first-time paron the weekbrand-new, in Kamloops given ents. her son end for a C-section, babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s said, the she But, concerns about be loving the appears to weight. attention. So, there Geraldine good,â&#x20AC;? schedâ&#x20AC;&#x153;Babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doingsaid. was, with surgery on New the 40-year-old and uled for 7 p.m.a slot that â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happy, healthy Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve given her one quiet.â&#x20AC;? would have babies in 2012 province. last the of the in 2013 in

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fighting for Joe. group is still The advocacy non-First Nations vetwith equal benefits its efforts include marking THE HERALD of erald.com Nations reporter@merritth erans. Some of fallen First no closer to unmarked graves veterans got is also chief First Nations n for their participaand soldiers. been difficult,â&#x20AC;? Joe, who â&#x20AC;&#x153;We said. World Wars â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s receiving remuneratio and Second Indian Band, to First of the Shackan tion in the First in 2012, according War President Percy the Korean of Canada Nations Veterans

Emily Wessel

R I T T operated M E R owned and Independently

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of Interna rrittherald.com tional Trade Ministe Ex-Con r and servativ ister Stockwe mid-200 for Public Safety the e cabinet ll Day showed minsupport Stephen 0s under Prime in the for the he stopped BC Liberals his re-elect Harper, and didMiniste r ion in 2011. not when and Cafe by Brambl es a crowd Day told seek Bakery Fraser-N on April 10 with Merritt of about 30 people icola MLA that working Liberal in Jackie Tegart while he candida with Liberals te for meet-an ister and was a Conserv d-greet. breakfa st and ative mina years on having known Tegart said she Tegart the provinc Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support circuit made for is grateful ial for as she support politica l the campai natural ing the transitio gn ahead gears up for party a provinc n. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I worked ial election of the May to kick with the back when off after , which is slated14 BC Liberals I was formerl today. the writ ernmen drops t y in govhave seen as a Conservative, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wonder first-han and Stockwe citizen ful the positive d as a B.C. said that ll Day has steppedthat econom results of he support ic up and in this so-verytheir support policies,â&#x20AC;? he s the ed them said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve importa Liberals Tegart certainl said. nt election y supportin the past and ,â&#x20AC;? Day served I them now.â&#x20AC;? as the Ministe r reporter@me

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6 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

May 23, 2013

HERALD OPINION Polarized politics a costly system TOM FLETCHER B.C. VIEWS One benefit of the surprising fourth term for the B.C. Liberal Party is that the provincial government won’t be subjected to another big, expensive ideological remake. Taxpayers are spared a bill of millions in severance pay for deputy ministers and other senior staff who would be purged in large numbers in the left-right lurch that has defined B.C. politics for a generation. BC Ferries will continue as an armslength operation, with ferry commissioner Gord Macatee in charge of service levels as well as fare caps. The service rationalization that the government set out in the past year will continue. The NDP platform vowed to “position BC Ferries as an integral part of B.C.’s transportation infrastructure.” Freely translated, that means “suck BC Ferries back into government,” as one of their strident supporters likes to say. That would conceal the growth of the subsidy and facilitate the kind of political and union interference that resulted in the current structure. There will be no $10 million rehash of the BC Rail sale and subsequent seven-year trial, to enrich elite lawyers once again. The NDP promised an inquiry for strictly political reasons, to drag their opponents through the scandal one more time. It was not a prelude to “nationalizing” the province’s train service, dream scenarios of the NDP provincial council notwithstanding.

See “Fletcher” Page 18

Associate Publisher Theresa Arnold production@ merrittherald.com

To boldy go where we’ve already gone

CRAIG LINDSAY Off the Cuff For those who haven’t seen the new Star Trek movie Into Darkness — go check it out. It’s full of great action, interesting characters and plenty of explosions. It’s everything that you could want in a summer popcorn movie. In fact, I give it eight phaser blasts out of 10. That said, there was something awfully familiar about Star Trek: Into Darkness. I will preface my column by saying I will try to avoid any major spoil-

Editor Craig Lindsay newsroom@ merrittherald.com

MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

ers. But be warned, I can’t be held responsible if a few spoilers slip through. You’ve been warned. OK, like I was saying, the movie was very enjoyable. I saw it at the new theatre in Penticton with my sister, brother-in-law and nephew during a May long weekend family visit with my mom. The new theatre is gorgeous with steep rows and reserved seating. Shaquille O’Neal could be sitting in front of me and I’d still get a great view of the screen. Okay, so my sister gets the tickets from the kiosk. You see, they don’t have any real-live ticket sellers there. It’s all through a debit style machine. Ah, the future. It’s here. We then line up for the concession booth, which is manned by real people.

I guess they haven’t yet trained computers to put butter on over priced popcorn. So, we all load up on mammoth-sized popcorn barrels and giant sodas and head for our seats to catch the movie. Right from the hop, Into Darkness had a very familiar feel to it. The original Star Trek movie, or at least the original Star Trek movie made by J.J. Abrams in 2009 (not to be confused with the original series, or the next generation, or the dozen or so movies with the original and next generation cast) was excellent. Abrams told the story of a young Kirk and Spock and how they met and how the crew fared on their first mission. The casting was excellent and the story was fresh. Sure,

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original Spock was there through time travel, but that was cool. And the big shocker was that the bad guy blew up Vulcan, so you knew right away this Star Trek world was different. Sure, hard core Trekkies weren’t happy with messing with canon but I liked that it showed a different take on the original story. You also had the love story between Uhura and Spock (second Spock, not the original one), which, of course, never happened in the original series. But with Into Darkness, Abrams brought out an old foe and re-hashed an old story. There are countless references to the original Trek throughout the movie from jokes about red shirts (you know, the poor unknown crew members that died every

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episode) to characters saying the catch phrase of their original predecessors (For example, “Dammit, Jim. I’m a doctor, not an engineer.”) While the geeky part of me enjoyed the references, another, less-nerdy part thought it was too much. I’d like to see the Star Trek movies establish their own identities rather than just redo the originals. As I’m sure you know, Abrams is set to direct the upcoming new Star Wars movies. Before I saw Into Darkness, I was really excited. Now I’m a little worried that the new Star Wars sequels will just rehash the originals with little Lukey Skywalker and Han Solo junior played by younger actors. How long before we see a new and improved Jar Jar Binks?

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This Merritt Herald is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

THURSDAY, May 23, 2013 • 7

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Have a dog gone good time at Angel’s Doggy Do dance By Craig Lindsay THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

For anyone looking to hear some great music and support a really good cause, the Angel’s Animal Rescue Doggy Doo fundraiser is sure to be a big hit. Rocking Lower Nicola Hall will be local band the Hoodoos, which consists of singer/ guitarist Gary Cooper, B.C. Country Music Association hall of fame member; singer/guitarist Joe Lonsdale, Walk of Stars inductee; bass player Ernie Pawliuk, who has toured with Gary Fjellgard; and Harley Carmen on the drums. Also performing will be local musicians Al

Horne, Denise Kearny and Sherry Gerstner. “It’s a fundraiser for Angels,” said Carmen. “We’re hoping to get some good support. There’s a lot of great musicians performing. We’re also expecting a few more surprises to get up on stage.” The event will also feature a silent auction with some great prizes including a 51-inch TV, snacks and refreshments, cash bars and a safe ride home by donation. All the money raised by the event will go to help Angel’s Animal Rescue and their efforts to help abandoned animals in the area. “Every penny we make will go to our

‘fuzzy’ friends,” said Angel’s co-founder Judanna Dawn-Caros. “We rescue approximately 300 abandoned, neglected, abused animals per year. Each and every one of them receives veterinary assistance and ongoing care. It’s very expensive. If you’re an animal lover and you want to see these animals rescued and taken care of, come to these kinds of events we have.” Dawn-Caros said that 95 per cent of the animals at Angel’s come from the ThompsonNicola region. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show goes from 8 p.m. until midnight on Saturday.

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

HERALD QUESTION OF THE WEEK To vote, go online to merrittherald.com

Were you surprised with the Liberals win? Local band the Hoodoos (from top left) Joe Lonsdale, Gary Cooper, Harley Carmen and Ernie Pawliuk will be playing Angel’s Animal Rescue fundraiser The Doggy Do on Saturday.

“It’s going to take some time. If you’re on a committee like this you need to know it’s not a quick process because we have the rest of the city to consider. There are people on fixed incomes. (The home-owners) are going to be buying the meters and hooking

them up. The city will have to hire someone to monitor the meters and do the billing and everything else. These are things that must be take into consideration. It does take time.” Coun. Alastair Murdoch proposed that the Water Resource Advisory Committee be disbanded until January. There was no seconder

for Murdoch’s proposal. Council decided on putting out advertisements seeking members of the community to join the committee. Goetz said the Water Resource Advisory Committee would be on hold until new members were brought in and brought up to speed by council and staff.

ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE Stacey Wormell (left) and Bobbi Parkes of ASK Wellness Merritt were at Merritt City Council on May 14 to ask for the use of Spirit Square for the grand opening of the Fireside Centre. (See story page 9) Craig Lindsay/Herald

PREVIOUS QUESTION Does the fish and game club have a case saying people have a right to access Crown lands and lakes?

Water committee in stasis From Page 5

Speak up

YES: 85% NO: 14%

LETTERS POLICY

TREE-MENDOUS FUN Herald reader Tammy Weymouth sent in this photo of a group of tree planters relaxing in and around a tree near Merritt last week.

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. 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 clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

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8 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

May 23, 2013

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

First Crabfest a big success for rotary club THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The Rotary Club of Merritt held their first ever Crabfest on May 11 at the Merritt Civic Centre. Although it was the first, it is sure to become an annual event based on the success of the inaugural event. “It turned out fabulous,” said Merritt Rotary Club President Jacqueline Nind. “It went above our expectations. Everyone in the community was great about supporting us.” More than 250 people were at the event, a number Nind says they’re thrilled about. The money raised from the event, which was close to $25,000, is going to two causes: the Nicola Valley Community Band for its upcoming trip to

Victoria to play at Government House, and Nicola Valley Community Gardens. “Those are two great causes that I really recommended,” said Nind. “The community band was invited by Lt.-Gov. Judy Guichon to play in Victoria where they’ll play in front of 3,000 people. It’s quite the honour. We thought it was a really good cause to support. The community gardens has only been around for a short time. Their mantra is to grow the produce and provide it for people in the community.” Nind said the crab was very well received, and people were certainly able to get their fill. There was plenty of entertainment at the event as well with the band Union Jack from

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The Flatiron Construction crew and their wives (from left) Colin, Annie, Tera-Lee, Dave, Mike, Simone, Pearce have a good time at the Rotary Club of Merritt’s first “annual” Crabfest on May 11 at the Civic Centre.

Kamloops playing. “People were up and dancing all night long,” said Nind. “We also had a loonie toss and raffles and several other fun events.” With the success of the first Crabfest, Nind said the rotary club is already planning for next year’s event. “I already have the date booked,” she said. “It’s May 10, 2014. We hope everyone comes out again.”

THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

Merritt city council agreed to grant a temporary use permit to the Merritt Return-it Depot on May 14. The depot has been forced to move from their current location at the George Hale Transfer Station by the end of May. The depot is looking at moving into the old Brick and Block location at Quilchena and Blair until they are able to find a permanent location. Aspen Planers sent a letter to council stating that they were concerned about the possibility of plastics blowing away and getting into the mill site and contaminating the wood products. “We passed it with a consideration that we would monitor it,” said Coun. Mike Goetz. “If it becomes a problem with the plastic blowing around then we’ll have to do something about it. The permit could possibly be removed. As Coun. (Kurt)

Christopherson said, the new site is only a block from where the old site was and my comment was that anything could blow in that yard. You have people recycling and suddenly their bins blow over and you have plastics

all over the place. I’ve used the depot and they’re very careful to get everything in the bags. Those bottles are not going to go blowing over the fence. That whole property has an eight foot chain fence around it.”

GROWING our

COMMUNITY GARDEN

together

Your lawyer makes the difference Established 1911

LLP LAWYERS MSS rugby player Becky Coutlee and volunteer Graham Whitecross prepare crab for hungry diners at Crabfest.

Return-It Depot granted temporary permit By Craig Lindsay

would like to remind you to register for your Garden Space at the Baillie House.

The temporary use permit will allow the Return-it Depot to use the location for one year. Goetz said it’s important for Merritt to have a bottle and electronic depot in town. “This one closed

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Do you have 2 hours or more a month that you could volunteer in the community? Do you need experience to add to your resume? Do you have experience with computers and programs such as Word? Do you have sales experience? Do you have marketing experience? Are you a Social Media guru?

If so we NEED YOU! You are the person we are looking for. The Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary has Volunteer Positions available immediately. You could join one of the longest serving volunteer organization in the Nicola Valley and be proud to say that you helped health care in the community in which you live.

Do you want to feel like you have made a difference in the lives of those within our community? If so call us now or email us for more information. Students, Mothers, Fathers, Grandmothers and Grandfathers alike we have a place for you in our organization. Call us today at 250-378-6940 or 250-378-6533 or email us at: nvhcaux@hotmail.com

AS WINSTON CHURCHILL SAID: “We make a living by what we do. But we make a life by what we give.”

before for a health issue and people had to go to Kamloops or Logan Lake,” he said. “Some people just can’t get to Kamloops or Logan Lake. They rely on this as a bit of income. It’s important to have this service here.”

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God

the Word, the World

By Herman Kneller

The Th ap apostle, ostl tle JJohn, oh hn was as ssitting ittiing itt ing on th the sea shore on the Sabbath morning when he heard a voice behind him. As he turned he saw Jesus standing there. What a pleasant surprise to see his old friend again. Jesus told him to write down everything He told him and send it to the seven churches. Now, John would go to the manager of the island and tell him that he had to do some writing. The manager probably asked him who had told him? To which he would explain that is was Jesus and that he would need a room, bed, table, desk, chairs and paper and pens. The manager would give him what he wanted. The Romans wanted to get rid of the knowledge of Jesus, but now they would Ànd themselves helping to spread the word of Jesus. What had happened? Jesus had stepped into the picture and now the Romans had no chance. They would even read what John would write before it got sent out just to be sure it was not against Rome.

Now here’s John with all his needs supplied (food, clothing, writing materials, protection), writing the eternal book of Revelation as it was given to him by angels. This book said a lot about the political and religious life from those days to the end of time. His writing went along with the prophet’s book of Daniel that was written some time before. Daniel said Rome would divide into ten countries. He called them horns, and said among these would stand up a little horn, different from the others. What was the difference? The horns represented political powers. The little horn was a religious power, and it would grow bigger than the others. A man would be at the head of it and he would change time and laws. This was the bishop of Rome. He became very powerful, even inÁuencing the leaders of different countries. There was opposition to him, but that opposition was beaten in 538 A.D. The prophecy said he would rule 1260 years. We only have to look back to the Dark Ages.

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By Craig Lindsay

Nicola Valley Community Garden Society

THURSDAY, May 23, 2013 • 9

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS T H A N K Y O U

Linda Monkman, former co-ordinator of the NV & District Food Bank, would like to extend her heartfelt gratitude to all the organizations, businesses, individuals and volunteers who helped support her over the years in making our food bank a success.

Thank You!

The winner of the MSS music dept. raffle is Dan Benz!

A Very Special Thanks to all these businesses for their generous support: Boston Pizza Home Restaurant Subway Yaki Joe’s Pizza 5A Diner Mongos Mongolian Grill Golden Chopsticks

SUNDAY ACCIDENT Cst. Macdonell of the Merritt RCMP takes photos of a truck that crashed into a pole on Highway 8, five kilometres west of Merritt on Sunday night. Ian Webster/Herald

SISKA INDIAN BAND BY-ELECTION FOR “COUNCILOR AT LARGE”

NOMINATION MEETING NOTICE Notice is hereby given to the Voters of the Siska Indian Band that a Nomination Meeting will be held: Tuesday, June 11th, 2013 at the Nicola Tribal Association commencing at 7pm. Nominations will be accepted for the following position: “Councilor at Large” a member who resides off-the Siska reserve and within the Nlha’kapmx Territory.

MAIL-IN NOMINATION FORMS Voters may nominate in person at the nomination meeting or by mail. Mail-in nomination forms must be sent to Electoral OfÀcer, PO Box 369, Lytton, BC V0K 1Z0 or sent by facsimile to: 250-455-0040,and received by the Electoral OfÀcer prior to the commencement of the Nomination Meeting. Mail-in nomination forms received after the deadline will be deemed void.

Election Day is Sunday, July 14th, 2013. If you have any questions please call the Electoral OfÀcer at (250) 4552471; toll free: 1-855-355-2471; email: ray.law@telus.net

MERRITT LUMBER SALES 0 HOURS OF OPERATION:

re We a d here te loca

DOUGLAS ST.

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

Family owned, family serviced Steve, Jim, Ashly

2152 DOUGLAS ST., MERRITT, BC 250-378-5382 • 250-314-4249

7” x 9” x 8’ Railway Ties

BLOWOUT PRICE: $12 - $18 2 3/4” x 3 1/4” x 8’6” FIR LANDSCAPE TIES

FACTORY SECONDS CEDAR 4X4’s

GREAT FOR LANDSCAPING & GARDEN BEDS

AS THEY COME OFF PILE, NO SORTING 1x6 CEDAR 10’, 14’, 16’

SALE PRICED

1” 4 x 8 (30/lift) CULL FIR PLYWOOD reg. $30.00

Sale $15.00/sheet

1” 4 x 8 D/FIR PLYWOOD

Sale $25.00/sheet

5/8 x 4’ x 6’ or better. Lifts of 12 pcs SALE $120.00 Reg. $144 Buy 2 lifts save an additional $24.

METAL ROOFING, SHINGLES, ROOFING PAPER, VAPOUR BARRIER, HOUSE WRAP

•4x4x8’ - $8.00 •4x4x10’ - $10.00 •BUY 20, 10’ for $150.00

reg. $45.00 Raymond D. Phillips, Electoral OfÀcer

Garden Sushi

1/2”- 4’ x O/S PLYWOOD D GUARANTEED 4’X6’ O/B $

Limited Quantities

210.00 PER LIFT (30 Sheets per Lift)

ECONO 5/4 x 6 RADIUS EDGE CEDAR DECKING RANDOM LENGTHS $

649.00/per Lift

3/8 x 18” x 8’ PLYWOOD

30.00/per Lift - 30 Piece Lift PLYWOOD SHORTS 3/8 - $5.00 5/8 - $7.00

Limited Quantities

LUMBER • SCREWS • NAILS • ROOFING

Stacy Wormell and Bobbi Parkes from ASK Wellness were at Merritt City Council on May 14 to ask for the use of Spirit Square as well as some equipment for the grand opening of the Fireside Centre. Council agreed unanimously to allow the organization to

a motivational speaker, Derek Clarke. We’re very happy that the city is helping us out.” Wormell said she expects the centre to be open for business on June 3. The grand opening event will take place on June 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the centre, which is located at 2026 Granite Ave. in Merritt.

NICOLA AVE.

THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

use the space and the equipment. “It’s going to be the grand opening for our Fireside Centre which is slated to be the teen centre in Merritt,” said Wormell. “It’s also going to be a hub for social services here in Merritt as well. That day will consist of a lunch, aboriginal drummers and an elder’s prayer.we’ll also have

1/2 - $6.00 3/4 - $8.00

5’ - 7’

10 SHEETS PER CUSTOMER

AS THEY COME OFF PILE, NO SORTING

FENCING

1 x 6 x 6’ and 1 x 6 x 5’

.95¢ - $2.50

• FLOORING • MOLDINGS • SIDING •

By Craig Lindsay

Our fundraiser was a great success! Thanks to all who purchased tickets and helped our band students, particularly our grade 8 musicans, who have, thanks to you, travelled to Vancouver May 9-11 for performance and education opportunities and fun!

• FENCING • DECKING • PLYWOOD • DRYWALL • TAPE • MUD • HOUSE WRAP

Council okays Spirit Square use

Mandolin’s Coffeehouse Tropico Spice I Love Sushi M&M Meat Shops Canada Café Petit Café Diane Post’s Meats & Deli

10 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

May 23, 2013

BUSINESS

Common-law money advice tax laws apply to common-law partners so be aware of the effect of your relationship from a tax perspective.

DAVID L. BROWN Managing YOUR MONEY It’s happening more and more, these days: couples choose to live together before, or instead of, getting married. But living common-law has its own unique set of financial consequences that need to be carefully considered. Here are a few tips for making the relationship work, financially. Goal-set from the get-go You and your partner each have personal financial objectives, resources and obligations – get them on the table in a frank discussion about how you are going to achieve those goals as a couple. That way, you’ll limit or prevent potentially painful financial consequences should your relationship one day end.

RRSP it You and your partner can take advantage of income-splitting opportunities by contributing to your partner’s spousal RRSP – but be aware that the contributor may not be able to get these funds back should you separate (depending on your province or territory of residence). Will it to happen In some jurisdictions, upon your death, your common-law partner may have statutory rights to a division of “family property” or to “dependant’s relief,” and may also have rights under intestate succession rules if you die without a

will. In those cases, you may want to include in your will provisions for children of a previous marriage/relationship. In other provinces, including Québec, a common-law partner is not recognized as a legal heir – so you may want to provide for your partner by signing a valid will. Given the continual changes in the law in this area, you need to speak with your legal and financial advisors regularly and keep your estate plan up to date. Plan for it Get your relationship on solid financial ground that fits with your life plans by meeting with your professional legal and financial advisors as soon as possible. This column, written and published by Investors

Keep your gutter running clean Ask about our leaf guard Need New Gutters? Have A Leaky Mess?

Contact Tyler for a FREE ESTIMATE 250.315.5750

Consider being an independent adult carrier for the Merritt Herald. You will earn extra dollars once a week to deliver an award winning community newspaper to the homes in your neighbourhood.

Call us for more information on how you can become an adult carrier in your area.

250-378-4241

Living common-law has its own unique set of financial consequences that need to be carefully considered.

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 advisor for specific advice about your cir-

Write it down Early on, see your lawyer and sign an agreement, commonly known as a cohabitation or common-law contract that sets out the terms of your financial relationship.

KAMLOOPS

Mon. - Wed. & Sat. 9:30a.m.-5:30p.m. Thur. & Fri. 9:30a.m.-9:00p.m. Sunday Noon - 5:00p.m.

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Delivering the newspaper is a great form of exercise. What better way to burn calories, enjoy the outdoors, and make a bit of extra cash.

Live together, talk together Be clear about how much you expect to spend, save and invest. Discuss the management of your personal finances and determine who will pay which bills and how you’ll share household expenditures.

Know the law Certain laws recognize common-law spouses. Seek information from your legal advisor on the impact these laws might have on your personal situation in your jurisdiction. Know too, that

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cumstances. For more information on this topic please contact your Investors Group Consultant. Contact David Brown at 250-3150241 or at david. brown@investorsgroup.com to book your appointment.

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MERRITT HERALD

11 • THURSDAY, AY, Ma AY May 23, 2013

www.merrittherald.com

PLAYING IT FORWARD

SO Y A S BENEFIT CONCERT FOR BC CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Jacob says: “Help me pay this forward!” (hosted by M&M Meatshop and Merritt Fire Rescue)

BBQ - 4 pm

CONCERT - 6 pm @ Culture Club

FRIDAY, MAY 24

s ket sale c i t % 0 0 1 to BC donated Hospital ’s Children By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

A local boy is hoping a concert featuring five local musical acts will help him reach his $10,000 fundraising goal for BC Children’s Hospital. Playing it Forward, presented by the SaySo Expression Society, is the final big fundraiser for eight-year-old Jacob Schultz in his year-long quest to raise money for the hospital he once spent time at. Schultz started the crusade with a more modest goal of $500,

but an outpouring of local support increased that goal to $10,000. Schultz’s efforts, including bottle drives and a partnership with Merritt Movie Experts, have earned his cause about $7,300 so far. He began the campaign shortly after his brother Daniel had open heart surgery at just four days old. “So many people’s lives have been touched by BC Children’s Hospital,” his father, Amery Schultz, said. “If you have a critically ill child, that’s where you’re going. Seventy-five individual children from

- Ticket includes Show, Burger, Beer & Dessert

he said. “It was just a quick phone call to each one of these people who said they’d love to play. They’re donating their time and their talent.” There will also be thousands of dollars in raffle prizes, which were donated by local businesses and people, Amery said. Amery said that the concert was the joint idea of friends at Q101 and the SaySo Expression Society. The event also includes a barbecue hosted by members of the Merritt Fire Rescue Department and sponsored by M&M Meats.

Merritt alone used the hospital last year. That’s a huge number.” Amery expects the concert to make up the remaining $3,000 of Jacob’s goal before the family appears on the BC Children’s Hospital marathon on June 1 and 2. The Schultzes will get about a minute and a half on the Global TV program to share their fundraising journey and present their cheque. Amery said 100 per cent of each $25 ticket to the concert will benefit the cause. “Everything is donated. The response has just been phenomenal,”

Tickets are $25 and include a burger, beer or soda, and dessert, and are available at Country Bug Books and Gifts. The barbecue kicks off at 4 p.m. and the concert follows at 6 p.m. at the Culture Club on Friday. The family said they have no immediate plans for fundraising after the telethon. “We’re going to take a deep breath and contemplate,” Amery said. “And celebrate how proud we are of what he’s accomplished,” mother Christiane added.

Jacob Schultz holds the poster for the fundraising concert “Playing it Forward” at the Culture Club on Friday, which he expects to put him at — or over — his goal of $10,000 for BC Children’s Hospital. Emily Wessel/Herald

PAGE GENEROUSLY PAID FOR BY THE FOLLOWING LOCAL BUSINESSES ;

Proud to help support Jacob on his journey of raising BC Children’s Hospital is the only pediatric health centre and teaching hospital in BC, and the largest full-service child health centre in Canada? Ph: 250-378-1818 Forksdale F Ave., Merritt

52%

of the 169 open heart surgeries performed every year at BC Children’s Hospital, are performed on patients younger than one year old.

NICOLA MOTORSPORTS 2626 Nicola Ave., Merritt, BC V1K1B8

250-378-2416

One in every 100 children in BC is born with heart diesease and most of them are treated at BC Children’s Hospital. THE

67%

of patients seen every year at BC Children’s Hospital come from areas outside the City of Vancouver.

Serving the Nicola Valley since 1960.

On its busiest day, BC Children’s Hospital treats almost 1,100 individual children?

2775 Marian Avenue, Merritt, BC

250-378-5121 1301 Nicola Ave., Merritt

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For every personal 2012 tax return done between January 1 to June 15, 2013 a dollar will be donated to BC Children’s Hospital on behalf of Jacob.

PROFESSIONAL

BC Children’s Hospital provides expert care for more than 78,000 children every year.

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12 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

May 23, 2013

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

LOGAN LAKE CARRIERS WANTED DO YOU LIVE IN THESE AREAS, THEN WE HAVE A ROUTE FOR YOU: •Amber, Beryl, Galena •Basalt, Granite, Calcite • Opal, Garnet and Sapphire

+ Earn extra money, tax-free + + + Get exercise while getting paid + + Job experience with references FARMERS MARKET OPENS Local artisans and farmers showed their wares, including this vendor with wooden lawn ornaments and quilts, at the first Nicola Valley Farmers Market of the season on Saturday morning. Other vendors sold homemade soaps, plants, spinach, and potatoes. The market runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot beside the Baillie House until October. Emily Wessel/Herald

+ + Ideal starter job for kids For more info please contact Yvonne Phone: 250-378-4241 Email: circulation@merrittherald.com

STRONG ECONOMY SECURE TOMORROW

JUBILEE JOY Maureen Dixon (left) of the Royal Canadian Legion pins the Queens’s Diamond Jubilee medal on Capt. Angele Grenier for her long (25 years) and dedicated service to the Rocky Mountain Ranger Cadet Corp of Merritt at the Cadet Hall on Tuesday May 7.

SPACE IS LIMITED BOOK EARLY

Jackie Tegart MLA - Elect Fraser-Nicola

To all the Constituents of Fraser-Nicola

Graduation

Class of 2013

Thank You!

Reserve Your Congratulation Message In The Merritt Herald’s Annual Graduation Supplement.

for putting your trust in me. I am very grateful for the overwhelming support and am committed

This Graduation Keepsake Contains Individual & Group Photos Of This Years Graduation Class

to making your priorities my priorities

Booking deadline Monday June 12th

MERRITT HERALD

Reserve your ad Today Call.................

378-4241 2090 Granite Ave.

as we work together to enhance the lives of all residents in our communites. Authorized by Deb Arnott, Financial Agent, 250-453-9467

MOVING REAL ESTATE BC LTD. #102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8

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ELEGANT DESIGNED RANCHER 1426 VOGHT STREET 3 bedroom rancher in good area close to shopping, parks & school. Open design kitchen with Shaker maple cabinets, eating bar, pantry & appliances. Gas F/P, central A/C, central vac. The backyard is a gardener’s delight with tiered deck, vegetable & flower gardens.

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Large lot with older double wide, in good condition, on flat lot in prime location. Spacious 3 bedrm home with workshop and fenced yard with mature fruit trees & asphalt driveway.

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#1987

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Perfect family home with 4 bedrms, 2.5 baths, fully finished bsmt. Great yard with extra parking, lots of room for toys on 1 ½ lots. Nice patio gazebo, UG drip irrigation, S/S appliances.

New Bench location home with gorgeous views of the Valley. Has open concept design, deluxe kitchen with subway tile backsplash, crown moldings. Seller will pay GST. Home Warranty.

Good rental, side by side duplex with 100 amp service, 2 bedrms, 1 bath, kitchen & living room each side plus fenced backyard. Within walking distance to all amenities. Adjacent duplex also for sale.

#1993

#1989

#1990

#1984

$415,000

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CED U D RE

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D UCE RED

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EXCEPTIONAL HOME

Great home in Lower Nicola on 0.35 acres with creek. 2 bedrms up, 1 down, bsmt has been renovated with family rm & office, new carpets, paint & HW tank. Has detached shop with power.

Gorgeous 5 bedrm home on fully manicured large corner lot. Home features 5 bedrms, 3.5 baths, fully fin. bsmt, HW flooring with ceramic tile in kitchen & baths. Has huge workshop under garage.

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#1928

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#102-2840 Voght St., Merritt, B.C. - 250-378-6166 - Toll Free: 1-877-841-2100

14 • THURSDAY,

May 23, 2013

THURSDAY, May 23, 2013• 15

www.merrittherald.com

Century 21 Moving Real Estate BC Ltd. Doug Beech (Owner) 378-4219

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3 bedrm rancher with open design concept, Shaker maple kitchen cabinets, gas F/P, central A/C, central vac. The backyard is a gardener’s delight with 2 tiered deck & double gazebo, flower & veg. gardens.

Immaculate 4 bedrm home with jetted tub in master + sitting area. Kitchen & living room with gas F/P look out over the Valley. Bsmt has family rm with gas F/P, laundry & office. RV parking.

2 bedrm mobile with addition in one of the nicest parks. One bedrm on each end with open concept kitchen with eating area & living rm in the center. Addition has large enclosed porch & family rm.

Spotless 2 bedrm home, each with their own ensuite, spacious living & dining rooms plus den & office. Has 2 skylights, 536 sq.ft. covered deck & detached shop with concrete floor.

Perfect 4 bedrm, 2.5 bath family home on 1 ½ lots. Fully fin. bsmt, 2 family rm, games rm, wine room, office & more. Lots of parking for toys. Great year with patio gazebo, storage shed & UG drip irrigation

Spectacular views of the Nicola Valley. This Bench home has 3 bedrms on main & 1 down. Very clean with laminate floors, open kitchen w/all appliances. Big rec.rm in bsmt & workshop.

New Bench home with 3 bedrms, 2.5 baths, & partially fin. bsmt. . Home has open concept design, deluxe kitchen with subway tile backsplash & crown moldings throughout. Seller will pay GST.

Large lot with older double wide, in good condition, on flat lot in prime location. Spacious 3 bedrm home with workshop and fenced yard with mature fruit trees & asphalt driveway.

Bench family home with million dollar views. Home has 2 bedrms up, 2 down & 2 bathrms. Large fenced corner lot allows access to backyard for RV parking. Close to school.

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#1993

#1986

#1979

#1967

#1988

#1989

#1978

#1990

#1991

#1962

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Come & view this 4 bedrm home, nicely landscaped 12,640 sq.ft. lot. Has some newer flooring, paint, windows, siding, furnace & HW tank. S/S appliances in ktuchen. Huge sundeck & shop in back

Quiet location, close to parks, schools & walking trails. Home has a large addition and open concept, 2 bedrms & 2 baths, new laminate flooring, gas F/P, new appliances & HW tank, deregistered on its own land.

Executive 5 bedrm home with panoramic views. Grandiose floor plan, Jacobi HW flooring, slate tile, 2 gas F/P’s, extra large kitchen with maple shaker cabinetry & a 5 pce ensuite

Gorgeous home with gourmet kitchen, S/S appliances, large balcony off living & dining rooms with views. 4 bedrms, 3 baths, fully fin. bsmt with wet bar, games room. Professionally landscaped.

Side by side duplex with walking distance to amenities. Each side has 100 amp service, 2 bedrms, 1 bath, kitchen & living rm plus fenced backyard. Adjacent duplexes also for sale.

#1957

#1925

#1955

#1800

#1811

#1982

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$344,900

GREAT BENCH AREA

WALK TO AMENITIES

$163,900

ON HALF ACRE LOT

CED U D RE

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$479,900

$169,900

$139,900

$259,000

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REMARKABLE HOME

QUIET NEIGHBOURHOOD

WELL MAINTAINED

Great home with 2 bedrms, open floor plan with newer high quality laminate throughout. Recent upgrades in kitchen include countertops & lower cabinets. Most windows replaced. Lots of RV parking

Perfect for family in good neighbourhood & close to school. 3 bedrms on main, large open kitchen with nook, 3 gas F/S’s, 2 bedrms down & summer kitchen. Large fenced backyard.

Nice 4 bedrm home with new laminate flooring, newer vinyl windows, BI vac, newer furnace & HW tank. Beautiful backyard with new fencing, water feature & fruit trees. Has single garage with workshop

Good house, property & neighbourhood. Well maintained 5 bedrm home, bright kitchen with Birch cabinets, 2 baths & fully fin. bsmt. Nicely landscaped with private sundeck in back.

#1921

#1861

#1902

#1977

!! W E N

$184,900

$395,000

$219,000

$269,999

LARGE FAMILY HOME

SUN VALLEY COURT

TOTALLY RENOVATED

QUIET LOCATION

REVENUE FOURPLEX

WHY RENT?

ED C U RED

4 bedrm home, centrally located. New HW tank & boiler in 2011, new metal roof, HE gas F/P, updated windows, UG sprinklers & freshly painted. Spacious backyard, RV parking, single garage.

This cathedral entry home with 2 bedrms up, 2 baths, large living rm and sundeck about single carport. The fully finished basement has 2 bedrms, big family room & extra kitchen.

3 bedrrom home in downtown core. Great for homebased business. Has a detached garage 21x23 with lane access. Fenced backyard with sundeck.

Custom finished 3 bedroom rancher on ½ acre lot with double garage & detached shop. Home is high end finished top to bottom. Enjoy the master bedrm 5 pce ensuite. Centrally located.

Gorgeous 5 bedrm family home on large corner lot. Home has HW flooring throughout with ceramic tile in kitchen & baths. Extra large kitchen with open concept. Fully finished bsmt & a double garage.

Well kept 4 bedrm family home with 2 bedrm legal suite with private entrance, in quiet neighbourhood & close to school. Includes UG sprinklers, central vac, skylight, jetted tub in ensuite.

Nice end unit townhome with bigger yard. Tastefully decorated, 3 bedrms plus office, 3 pce ensuite, open floor plan on main plus laundry & 2 pce powder room. Double garage

Cozy 2 bedrom home on large lot, totally renovated. New gyproc, paint, kitchen, bathrm flooring, fixtures, cabinetry & S/S appliances. New roof, plumbing & electrical. Move in ready.

Spacious 3 storey family at end of cul de sac. Home has sunken living room, 3 large bedrms and 1 bedrm inlaw suite with office & rec.room down. 2 car garage with workshop. Large patio with hot tub

Side by side fourplex on a 1/3 of an acre. Has been renovated inside & out including roof & septic system. Monthly rental revenue is currently $2670. Cooperative water. Desirable location

Why rent when you can own your own 2 bedroom apartment. Great for retirees, first time buyers. Has a balcony and storage, large living & dining room. Strata fees $216 per month.

#1898

#1981

#1892

#1917

#1759

#1970

#1825

#1954

#1840

#1889

#1950

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$267,500 SENSATIONAL

$179,000 RIVERFRONT

$515,000

QUIET CUL DE SAC

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$334,900

$214,900

$124,900

$349,900

SPECTACULAR VIEWS

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FANTASTIC VIEWS

ADULT ORIENTED COMPLEX

D SOL Large 5 bedrm home with fully finished basement. Nice fenced backyard with mature landscaping & hot tub. Garage with workshop area. RV parking. Close to school & hospital.

Quality built view home offers approx. 4000 sq.ft. on 3 levels. Large chef’s kitchen with all appliances, family rm open to large balcony, 4 bedrms, 3 baths. Fully finished basement. Triple garage.

Executive 3 bedrm rancher on immaculate ½ acre lot backing onto river. Features maple HW floors, ceramic tile, custom window coverings, 3 bedrms, 5 pce enusite. 475 sq.ft. covered deck in back with views.

Wonderful, large 5 bedrm Bench home with new U/G sprinklers, paint, lights fi xtures & flooring. Spacious master suite has 11 ft ceilings, ensuite w/soaker tub & sep. shower. Living rm has 19 ft ceilings, extra large rec.rm

Great family area. Large 10,800 sq.ft. lot, fenced & nicely landscaped. Home has nice reno’s including paint, flooring, kitchen, bathrsm. New roof in 2008, HE furnace & HW tank in 2006

Well finished ‘ICF’ efficient, 4 bedroom, 2 storey home with open floor plan and quality throughout. The unfin. basement was designed to accommodate an inlaw suite. Comes with Home Warranty.

Very nice 4 bedroom home with open floor plan and high cathedral ceilings. Has 1 bedrm and laundry on main, 3 bedrms up and ensuite with jetted tub. Has fenced backyard. Includes 3 appliances.

3 bedroom rancher with views of the Nicola Valley. Just 2 yrs new with open floor plan, vaulted ceilings in kitchen, eating area and family room. 20x24 garage with 10 ft ceilings

Nice strata complex in park-like setting backs onto Nicola River. Home has open design, galley kitchen with nook, 2 bedrms & laundry on main, downstairs is hobby & rec.rms. Double carport.

#1862

#1863

#1849

#1949

#1956

#1980

#1923

#1836

#1959

$249,999

CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN

$549,900 A MUST SEE

$469,900 HERITAGE HOME

$349,900 WHY RENT

$274,000 NEW RANCHER

$439,000 FENCED YARD

$295,000

QUIET CUL DE SAC

$314,900

SPACIOUS RANCHER

$298,000

$75,000

HAMLYN COURT TOWNHOMES

$239,000 INVESTMENT

Priced below assessed value at $89,900

1800 sq.ft. rancher, only 4 yrs old, 3 bedrms on main with a bonus room above garage. Open kitchen design with all appliances, HW floors, crown moldings, 9 ft ceilings, 2 baths. Fenced backyard.

Spectacular home on quiet cul de sac. New windows, siding, new concrete driveway, sidewalks & deck in past couple of yrs. Inside has new HW floors, high end carpet, newer bathrms, kitchen & more.

In downtown core, close to amenities. Has Victorian white kitchen with all appliances, master bedrm on top floor with huge ensuite. Many rooms have 9 ft ceilings, large family rm, and huge rec.rm.

This 3 bedrm home has had some updates, laminate flooring, double glazed windows, electrical upgrade, newer roof. 2 levels, 3 bedrms, 2 baths. Strata fees heat and hot water.

New 2 bedroom + den rancher with open design plan, master bedroom with 4 pce ensuite and walk in closet. Single car garage. Close to shopping and in good area. Quick possession.

Great home for first time buyers or retirees, in mobile home park. Large fenced yard with garden area. 3 bedrms, 2 baths, spacious open plan. Newer siding & thermal pane windows.

West Coast contemporary home on quiet street. 3 bedrms, den, 2.5 baths, elegant flooring. 13x18 living rm with 17 ft vaulted ceilings. Kitchen with wrap around counters. 3 pce ensuite. Private backyard.

Fantasic 3 bedrm Bench home with open design, sunken living rm, oak kitchen, vaulted ceilings, ceramic tile & HW floors. Billiard room in bsmt plus 2 bedrm inlaw suite. Double garage.

Great location near to downtown Aquatic Center, arena & curling center. Nicely kept 2 bedrm townhouse in well cared for strata community. Ground level, easy access, corner unit.

#1852

#1919

#1946

#1765

#1696

#1903

#1963

#1964

#1924

$309,000

DETACHED GARAGE/SHOP

$379,000 HAS WORKSHOP

$289,900

$89,900

ROOM TO GROW

$240,000

4 bedroom home with fully finished basement and large rec.room. Kitchen opens to dining & living rm and includes appliances. RV parking, carport plus detached garage/shop.

Large home with 3 bedrms up, oak kitchen cabinets, nook & a dining room. Newer paint & flooring on main. On ground level is 2 bedrm inlaw suite . Fenced backyard with sundeck and views.

This 3 bedrm rancher has been loved for many years. Is within walking distance to downtown shopping, schools & parks. One car detached shop, new HW tank, electrical upgrade & some new plumbing.

#1868

#1905

#1854

#1756

QUIET NEIGHBOURHOOD

$229,900 BEAUTIFUL YARD

$339,000

INCOME PROPERTY

$295,000

NEAT AS A PIN

Nicely kept 5 bedrm home in quiet area. Newer hardwood floors and tile in kitchen. Basement has 2 bedrms and a workshop area. Includes detached detached/shop and a sundeck in backyard

$229,900

$89,000

WATERFRONT MOBILE

CALL US FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION

$139,900 ON THE BENCH

IN LOWER NICOLA

$419,900

$112,000

Buy these 3 bedrm townhomes for an investment or for your own home at this unbelievable price. Seven units currently available. Affordable living just 2 blks from downtown core. Just under 1200 sq.ft. on 2 floors with spacious rooms.

#1893

Each $89,900

HUGE LOT

WALK TO SHOPPING

REVENUE PROPERTY

INCOME PROPERTY

Custom built 3 level home on the Bench in private setting with gourmet kitchen, granite counters, oak cabinets, porceline tile & HW floors. 5 bedrms, 4 baths, sauna, theatre room & more

Clean and well maintained 3 bedroom rancher with good size room and large kitchen. Room in backyard for shop, has lane access and garden shed. Property is totally fenced.

Triplex in good area, close to park. Has 3 – 2 bedrm units with some interior renovations in past year. Huge storage unit in back. Great for retired couple to live in one unit and rent out the others

Great 1 bedroom apartment, newer laminate floors and in good shape. Big living room with a balcony and mountain views. Currently in rental pool. Strata fees $161.77 per month

#1883

#1927

#1901

#1721

$414,900

$172,900

$199,900

$69,500

INVESTMENT PROPERTY

COMPLETELY RENOVATED

FIRST TIME BUYERS

OPPORTUNITY

CED U D RE 3 bedrms up with 3 pce ensuite, large bright living room with gas F/P, large dining rm with access to covered deck. Bsmt has 2 bedrms, gas F/P, in-floor heating. Double garage, RV parking.

Quality executive family home in good area of the Bench. Home has HW & cork flooring, vaulted ceiling, Mill Creek cabinets with granite tops & island in kitchen. UG sprinklers, 2 decks

Side by side duplex with long term tenants. 2 bedrms per side. Total rental income of $1550 per month. Has had some reno’s in past 3 yrs – flooring, windows, doors, siding, soffits.

Very nice waterfront mobile home in a very nice park, overlooking the golf course. Open design with laminate floors throughout. Comes with appliances. Quick possession. Pad rent $381 per month.

Spectacular Bench home in desireable area. Huge open designed home with sunken living rm, oak kitchen, vaulted ceilings, ceramic tile, HW floors, 3 bedrms up, and 2 bedrm inlaw suite

3 bedrm home on 0.35 acre lot with creek at the side. Open plan upstairs with a galley kitchen. Recent reno downstairs, new roof in 2004 and new HW tank. Has detached garage/shop.

Great property for fi rst time buyers or retirees. has large living and dining room with balcony and storage. Currently rented. Why rent when you can own.

Completely renovated inside & out. Exterior redone in vinyl, peak roof has been added & asphalt shingles, and 160 sq.ft. addition. Entire interior drywalled, extra insulation in walls, new windows & more.

2 bedroom upper unit in good shape. Move in ready condition. Comes with appliances. Has had some recent lino & laminate flooring, and a sundeck for BBQ’s.

Large lot located on quiet end of street. Situated close to elementary school and park. Hydro has been disconnected on existing building. Zoned R6 for a mobile home on the property.

#1671

#1838

#1965

#1969

#1964

#1844

#1951

#1947

#1820

#1906

$329,000

$439,900

$214,900

$54,900

$419,900

$279,900

$75,000

$84,900

$94,999

$50,000

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