Merritt Herald, August 01, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2013 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS

SHINING BRIGHT There were 150 cars on display at the 2013 Nicola Valley Cruisers Car Show at Central Park on July 28. People of all ages gathered to see the the various muscle cars, hot rods and vintage cars that lined the field. There was also plenty of music, food and prizes to be had as well as a swap meet held in conjunction with the 19th annual event. Michael Potestio/Herald

Sonar search society inspired by Nicola Lake tragedy By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The families of two boys who drowned in Nicola Lake earlier this year have teamed up with the family of another drowning victim to establish an underwater search and recovery society. The Kingsborough and Wilson families from Langley, which lost Austin, 17, and Brendan, 18, respectively in Nicola Lake in April are heading up the society with Calgary’s Poole family, which lost 59-year-old John in Shuswap Lake 10 days later. Both families hired Gene

and Sandy Ralston, an Idaho-based couple, to search for and recover their loved ones using sonar equipment more sophisticated in deep water searches than that available to RCMP. The Ralstons’ volunteer efforts have recovered about 90 bodies since 1999. “Once we learned about what the Ralstons are doing and the relief and closure that it brought to us, we said we have to carry this work forward,” Legacy Water Search and Recovery Society director and co-founder Scott Lebus said. “The Ralstons can’t go on forever, obviously.”

The society, which was incorporated on June 17, is hoping to start operations as early as next summer. Lebus said the society’s goal is not to say no to any family that needs assistance, and will provide the service for free. Private companies charge as much as $30,000 a day for a side scan sonar search. “We’ve said that we are not going to say no to anyone,” Lebus said. “We are just going to be limited by what the authorities will let us do. Anywhere in Canada that calls us and we’re able to get there and get volunteers organized, we’ll go.”

Now that it’s registered, the society’s next step is fundraising about $350,000 for its own sonar equipment. “Now we’re researching equipment and costs, and we’re getting into the community to talk about this issue and fundraise,” Lebus said. The group is starting fundraising with two memorial golf tournaments, including the For the Boys Memorial Golf Tournament in Langley for the Nicola Lake victims. The other, the John Poole Memorial Golf Tournament, takes place in Calgary. Both events are slated for September.

However, the society isn’t starting from scratch on its fundraising. It has about $3,500 in seed money from a local fundraiser in May held at the Grand Pub and Grill. Lebus said Merritt and the Nicola Valley will always be a big part of the society’s legacy. “The first donation we got was from a pub there. We have a real connection to Merritt and we really appreciate what the community has done for us,” he said. “With the Wilson family cabin being near Merritt and the connection to Merritt we have, I think

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we’ll probably try to use Merritt as our training area. And obviously, if this tragedy affects Merritt, we’ll be there,” Lebus added. Society directors have also informally discussed working with Nicola Valley Search and Rescue. Lebus said they’re looking at a volunteer team of about 10 to 15 trained boat drivers and sonar operators as it takes three people for any given search operation. Donations and more information can be found at legacywatersearch.com. About 45 people have drowned in B.C. waters this summer so far.

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d e t i v n I e ’r u Yo Highland Valley Copper

Open House

Monday August 5, 2013 Open House Hours: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm

We Invite You to Come Celebrate Our 27th Anniversary Come early to get a spot on one of the six types of tours some tours require tickets on a ¿rst come basis FREE GUIDED TOURS

• MINE OPERATIONS • MINE MAINTENANCE •ASSAY LABORATORY •RECLAMATION SITES •THE MILL

The Open House is a family day showcasing many aspects of the mine including interactive displays and family entertainment: • RIH Foundation $Fundraising Games • Uncle Chris the Clown • Big Little Science Center • Informative Displays • Mine Rescue Demonstrations • Children’s Copper Challenge • Hot Dogs & Refreshments And So Much More!

• Open to all ages with some age restrictions on various tours • No booking required

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Everyone welcome

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For more information call 250-523-3802 or 523-3737

THURSDAY, August 1, 2013 • 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Facebook group looks to deter crime By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

There’s a new group in town that aims to keep an eye out for mischief and crime in Merritt neighbourhoods. Merritt Neighbourhood CrimeWatch began as a Facebook group started by local Patti Taylor in December 2012 as a forum for Merrittonians to post about stolen items, break-ins and suspicious activity. Now, the group has well over 350 members, some of whom started doing voluntary neighbourhood patrols to deter petty criminals about a month ago. The group is closed, meaning prospective members have to request to be let in by Taylor or another group administrator. Taylor said there is a core group of 12 people who participate regularly in the group. Patrol leader Jay, who didn’t want his last named to be used, said the patrols started after some residents were “targeted” by teenagers who threw Slurpees at their houses. He said the Neighbourhood CrimeWatch patrols are not vigilantes but are simply recording and reporting suspicious activity. “The most action we do is seeing where these perpetrators or the suspects are coming from and going to,” he said. “That’s it. We don’t actually make any physical arrests or anything like that.” Jay said patrols call RCMP and sometimes follow suspects until police arrive. He said group members realize the RCMP cannot attend every minor incident or suspicious activity, such as someone in an alley looking into a backyard. “Obviously, the police can’t answer every call of

a dog barking or a person walking through a back alley that looks suspicious. They’ve got real crimes to go after,” he said. If patrols observe something illegal while it’s happening, Jay said they call RCMP first. “Basically [we’re] trying to be an extra set of eyes and ears for the police so that we can actually get some of these people off the street because, the thing is, the police know who they are, we know who they are, but nobody has any proof,” he said. He said this might not be much for the police to look into but simply the presence of the informal patrols or the lights from one of their cars could deter potential criminal activity. He said the most interaction they’ve had with a suspect is asking someone to stop what they’re doing and move along. Jay said he saw kids playing with the power supply unit outside the Civic Centre and rather than call the police, he politely asked them to stop what they were doing. He said it’s something he’d do only during the day. “Honestly, I’m not going to stop and warn a young person at night. Forget that, because you never know who’s in the shadow behind him. I’m not out there to put myself in danger, I’m just out there to help the community,” Jay said. Jay said the group is not interested in criminals such as drug dealers, but prefers to focus its efforts on smaller issues such as theft or vandalism. “There have been a couple of people that have thought maybe we’re out there to help dull the drug crowd. Honestly, I want nothing to do with the drug crowd. That’s something for the RCMP

‘‘

‘It’s no different than putting up a [sign that says] ‘This house monitored by security cameras.’ It’s just, we’re a living security camera.’ — VOLUNTEER PATROL JAY

to get involved in, not us. [If] you start dealing with things like crack houses and stuff like that, you’re inviting violence,” Jay said. “Young kids, they’re just more freaked out that there’s somebody following them and there’s lights over their shoulders all the time.” Jay said other than a few conversations and assurances with police on duty that they are not acting as vigilantes, the group hasn’t had much dialogue with Merritt RCMP. All patrols, which take place throughout the city, are voluntary and there is no set schedule. Patrols will monitor the Facebook posts and remain on call, making patrols if they have free time or there are posts they want to investigate. Jay said the patrols give him a sense of purpose while he’s on disability. He also said Merritt has a reputation as being a place for Vancouver’s homeless to migrate to, or as a place where events “flunk out,” citing the loss of the Merritt Mountain Music Festival as an example. “It’s getting worse and worse and worse, and now you’re throwing crime on top of it,” he said. “Honestly, our house rates are going through the floor. My house is worth 17 per cent less than what I bought it for six years ago.” He said even if the patrols don’t help raise property values, they at least provide residents some peace of mind. Jay said most of the

suspicious activity they seee seems to happen between 1:30 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. They patrol any day of the week and anywhere from 8 p.m. to as late (or early) as 5 a.m. Taylor said some people have posted on the Facebook page thanking the group as patrols make them feel safer in their own neighbourhoods. Jay said a lot of the posts the patrols respond to turn out to be nothing, sometimes just some kids going for an innocent bike ride or going to get a Slurpee, but the group’s presence around the neighbourhood will make anyone think twice if they are up to no good. “All of a sudden, there’s eyes out there,” Jay said. “It’s no different than putting up a [sign that says] ‘This house monitored by security cameras.’ It’s just, we’re a living security camera, and mobile.” Merritt RCMP Const. Tracy Dunsmore said the group seems to do crime prevention similar to an organized Block Watch or Citizens on Patrol group, with the added use of social media to communicate. “If they’re watching each other’s properties, reporting if things are being stolen or things are being broken into, I absolutely encourage that, and also reporting to the police so that we know what’s going on,” Dunsmore said. She said the RCMP support the group’s activi-

ties as long as it stays within the confines of the law and does not go vigilante. “We don’t want people taking the law into their own hands and beating somebody up because they’ve done something, because then people will start being charged and it will be the wrong people,” Dunsmore said. Block Watches are teams of people in specific neighbourhoods set up with a captain. Members watch each other’s houses and report any suspicious activity to the RCMP. The local community policing office administers Block Watches and Citizens on Patrol. She said the police recommend observing, recording and reporting suspicious activity as well as taking pictures if necessary. Jay said recording and reporting is exactly what this group is doing, using handheld radios to communicate. However, he said the patrols haven’t joined the city-based, RCMP-affiliated Citizens on Patrol because that group requires members to be incognito, while the Neighbourhood Crime Watch patrols are visible. “They have to stay under the radar. They can’t light up alleys. They’re supposed to be incognito. You’re not even supposed to know they’re there,” Jay said. “We’re the middle guy. We’re not quite the Citizens on Patrol because we can do other things, we’re not having to be incognito, we’re not having to be the man in the shadows, we’re able to be out there and show that we’re out there,” Jay said. Taylor said she hasn’t noticed the Citizens on Patrol or heard if the program is recruiting volunteers.

See ‘Police’ Page 9

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GOOD MORNING! Opinion ------------------------------------------ 6-7 Business ------------------------------------------ 11 Health ---------------------------------------------- 18 Sports ------------------------------------------19-21 Classifieds ---------------------------------------- 23 TODAY’S HERALD FLYERS *Selected distribution Safeway Source* Home Hardware Staples* Visions* Royal Lepage Pharmasave* Coopers Canadian Tire* Extra Foods* London Drugs

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30, 2013

• MERR ITT NEWS PAPER S

Voluntee up defacers clean d mural

FREE

By Michae l Potestio THE HERAL

reporter@m D errittherald.c om

Available at newsstands today. NO HANDS Malcolm a quick stop in Merritt MacDougall, “no-hand er.” Michael to ride their 18, was on his way bikes at Potestio/H home the skate erald park on to Vancouver when Sunday. MacDoug he and a friend all calls the trick decided to make pictured here a

HELPIN

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• Volunteers clean up defaced mural A group of four women, who were part of at-risk youth crews involved in the Youth Mural Project, took it upon themselves to restore the Tim McGraw mural to its former glory.

• Visitor Info Booth booms in spring The Visitor Information Centre at the Baillie House had its busiest second quarter ever with a 17 per cent increase in visitors over the same period in 2012.

• Fire danger rating high The B.C. Wildfire Management Branch’s fire danger rating dropped from extreme to high in the Merritt area over the weekend, but with fire season in full swing, the Kamloops Fire Centre is urging people to use caution.

• Thefts from driveway, truck lead police briefs

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4 • THURSDAY, August 1, 2013

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Directional Sinage Committee to request $1,500 from council The following is an excerpt from the City of Merritt Directional Signage Committee meeting on July 17. Coun. Kurt Christopherson will seek clarification on the motion to council in regards to the signage spot at the B.C. Visitors Centre still being available to the city for future use. Kim Vizi-Carmen, Pine Rock Ridge Graphic Art and

Design and committee member Rob Miller made a brief presentation to the committee on possible graphic design elements of future directional signage for the city as well as the teepee signs on the highway. The role of the signage, key design elements and examples were reviewed and discussed by the committee. It was inquired whether a budget is available to obtain professional assistance

in gathering information and producing examples of signage that could be consistently used throughout the city. Community Futures Nicola Valley has offered to pay for the preliminary graphic design services to get the project moving forward. It was moved, seconded and carried that the Directional Signage Committee requests from council up to $1,500 for

graphic design services for use with directional signage projects. Kim Vizi-Carmen will contact the Chief Administrative Officer for permission to use the city’s copyrighted logo.

will be on the next agenda.

2014 GRANT IN AID APPLICATIONS Have a great idea for an event? Are you part of an organization that is a positive contribution to the community? Each year, Council carefully considers providing funding assistance to non-proÀt groups that operate in the City of Merritt and provide valuable social and community services in the municipality. The 2014 Grant in Aid Application is now available, for a copy of the application please go to www.merritt.ca or drop by City Hall.

The next Directional Signage Committee meeting will be on Wednesday, August 21 at 7 p.m.

Applications are due November 30th, 2013.

Merritt

New business chairperson Coun. Christopherson will be stepping down as the interim chairperson so a new chairperson must be elected in the near future. This item

ACTIVITIES: Week of July 29, 2013

Ê Road Sweeping Ê Water System Repairs Ê Sidewalk Grinding Ê Hydrant Maintenance

Sewer flushing reminder The City of Merritt Public Works Department would like to remind residents that it is that time of year again for our

annual maintenance program and camera work. We apologize for any inconvenience and your patience is

SATURDAYS, 2 - 5 pm Rotary Park Band Shell August 10th Michelle Etchart Doug James Band

B Bring your lawn chairs, bblanket & snack. EEnjoy the best music that Merritt has to offer! M

August 17th Chris Brock Dawn Chypyha & Willard Antione John Flottvik & Company (Hank Williams Tribute)

August 24

Taylor Cox Bobby Garcia & Six More Strings For more info. contact the City of Merritt Leisure Services Dept. at 250-315-1050

greatly appreciated. Flushing began in Sector 4 (see map to right) on July 29 and will continue for 4 weeks.

www.merritt.ca

•

250-378-4224

SANITARY SEWER FLUSHING The City of Merritt Public Works Department would like to remind residents that it is that time of year again for our annual maintenance program for sewer Áushing and camera work. We apologize for any inconvenience and your patience is greatly appreciated

2014 PERMISSIVE TAX EXEMPTION APPLICATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. In some instances, Council has chosen to grant property tax exemptions. Under the Community Charter, Section 224, City of Merritt Council may choose to grant property tax exemption to non-proÀt organizations. The application for 2014 Tax Exemption is now available and due on August 30, 2013 at 4:30PM. The organizations approved for exemption by Council will receive an exemption for the 2014 Tax Year and must apply annually to receive exemption. For a copy of the application please go to www.merritt.ca or drop by City Hall.

Next council meeting: Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013 Council agendas and minutes at www.merritt.ca

Sector 4 Black line indicates area being worked in. Flushing will begin July 29 and continue for 4 weeks.

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

THURSDAY, August 1, 2013 • 5

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS THE REGION

Teck HVC opens Merritt office Campfire ban begins By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

A campfire ban throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre, which includes the Merritt Fire Zone, officially goes into effect today. The wildfire danger rating is currently high throughout the region, with some areas in the “extreme” rating. The ban is an attempt to lower the

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Teck Highland Valley Copper is moving into Merritt with the grand opening of its Voght Street office. The Community Affairs and Environment departments will have staff members in the office at 2001A Voght Street across from the post office on a rotating basis. The human resources and purchasing departments may also have staff in the building on occasion. The move into Merritt is intended to make the company more accessible to its local employees, First Nations Liaison Marlena Anderson wrote in an email. “[Highland Valley Copper] would like to be more accessible to the people living in surrounding local communities,” Anderson wrote. “This initiative supports our goal of proactive community engagement to promote awareness and understanding of our activities.” The mine, which is Canada’s largest openpit mine, is located about seven kilometres

chances of humancaused wildfires in the area and applies to open fires of any size, industrial burning, fireworks, and tiki torches. The prohibition covers all provincial parks, Crown and private land. Anyone caught in violation of the open fire ban could be issued a ticket of up to $345.

NOTICE

The Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre will be closing for our Annual Maintenance Shut Down as of August 16 at 4:00 pm. Shut down will be approximately 1 month

Don’t miss our mock Polar Bear Swim 1:00 - 4:00 pm The Àtness room will be open 7:00 am - 7:00 pm, Monday to Friday, beginning Wednesday, August 21 If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us

Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre: 250-378-6662 Teck Highland Valley Copper Senior Environmental Co-ordinator Dave Falcon and First Nations Community Affairs Liaison Marlena Anderson at their new office in Merritt, across from the post office. Emily Wessel/Herald

east of Logan Lake. It is expected to have a mine life until 2027. Approximately half of the mine’s staff live in Kamloops, with the remainder split between Logan Lake, Ashcroft and Merritt.

The office was established about a month ago, but the grand opening will take place on Aug. 7 from noon to 2 p.m. at Spirit Square. Highland Valley Copper staff will serve up

hotdogs and hamburgers. Proceeds from the event are slated to go to an unspecified local non-profit organization. The company is also hosting its annual open house at the

mine site on Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The mine’s concentrates are transported to Ashcroft for processing, then Vancouver for exporting overseas.

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PROGRAMS OFFERED at the CIVIC CENTRE Summer Fun Dayz Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:30 am – 4:00 pm $22.50/day (or $40 for both) Disc Golf - $6 Ages 10+ Tuesdays, until Aug 13 9:30 - 10:30 am @ Rotary Park Underwater Hockey Ages 14+ Mondays, until Aug 12 7 - 8 pm @ Aquatic Center Register $5/5 sessions or Drop-in regular admission Water Polo Ages 14+ Wednesdays, until Aug 14 1:30 - 2:30 pm @ Aquatic Center Register $7/7 sessions or Drop-in regular admission XploreSportZ Multi-Sport Camp Ages 7-12 Monday to Friday - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Aug 19-23 $150 per child per week $130 for 2nd child per week Each child receives a FREE t-shirt and prize Soccer - $4 Ages 6-8 Wednesdays, Aug 7 - 28 9 am - 10 am @ Central School

If you would like more information on these classes call 250-315-1050

6 • THURSDAY, August 1, 2013

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HERALD OPINION Small businesses face nightmare with B.C.’s new packaging rules By Laura Jones Reducing packaging and waste is a worthy and noble goal, but new rules being introduced by the B.C. government to support this goal don’t pass the smell test for good public policy and are about to unleash a regulatory nightmare on small businesses. New rules will require many businesses selling packaged goods or providing marketing and other printed materials “to assume responsibility for the cost of collecting and recycling that packaging and printed paper.” From what we understand, many businesses will be required to track the packaging they sell (e.g. tin cans, labels, cardboard boxes, shampoo bottles, plastic wrap) and the printed materials they sell or give out (e.g. pamphlets, brochures, letters) and pay a fee in each of many materials categories (e.g. tin, paper, cardboard, plastic) according to volume. A new government-appointed agency, Multi-Material B.C., will be setting up rules and charging fees to make this vision a reality. As an aside, giving taxing and regulating powers to such arm’s-length agencies is problematic and needs a serious rethink. There simply isn’t enough accountability without a strong connection to an elected official. Here at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, we have now fielded several dozen calls from confused businesses owners who are trying to figure out what the rules mean and whether they apply to them. A review of the 62-page overview document and 23-page frequently-asked-questions document on Multi-Material B.C.’s website had me pretty darn confused too.

See ‘Fines’ Page 7

Publisher Theresa Arnold production@ merrittherald.com

Weekend calls for sunscreen (and lots of it)

Emily Wessel Merritt MUSINGS In light of the rapidly approaching Bass Coast electronic music and arts festival, I thought I’d share my list of indispensable preparations I have taken in getting ready for my weekend of DJs, turntables, art installations, and everything

Production Shel Hein production2@ merrittherald.com

else the 3,000-person festival can throw at me. Because, you know, failure to plan is planning to fail, and all that good stuff. 1. Sunscreen. This paste is the golden rule in avoiding any hint of a golden glow to my skin tone. As a ginger, reapplication of said sunscreen is vital to my enjoyment of any outdoor activity, as my sunprotective bee keeper’s suit is at the dry cleaner’s. Also included in the sunscreen category are a hat and lip balm with SPF, lest both the scalp and lips burn up in the sun and fall off. 2. Snacks. Snacks are a key part of any

Editor Emily Wessel newsroom@ merrittherald.com

MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

activity over 15 minutes long. In this heat, snacks foods that contain water are the best choice. Fresh fruit and vegetables are going to be the way to go. They’re easy to pack, require little packaging (if any — bananas come in their own cases), and are simply delicious. 3. Sensible shoes. Be warned: if you wear sandals, you will get hippie foot. If you’re unfamiliar with hippie foot, it’s when the bottom of your foot is totally blackened by dirt, grime, dust, mud and all that other goodness in nature. For me, a pair of those light canvas shoes are the way to

Reporter Michael Potestio reporter@ merrittherald.com

RANITE AVE., PO BOX 9, MERRITT, B.C. PHONE (250) 378-4241

go. They’re comfortable and won’t give you any weird sandal tans (or burns) and they’re light enough that if you do want to de-shoe and bare your soles, you won’t be lugging around a pair of totally hippie foot-proof Doc Martens or whatever. And the best thing about these shoes? Although they’re white and are bound to get disgustingly dirty, they’re made of canvas, so they’re easy to wash. 4. Something zebra. It’s Bass Coast’s Year of the Zebra, and with some kind of zebrapatterned surprise happening on the last day, it’s one thing to watch and take pictures, and

Sports writer Ian Webster sports@ merrittherald.com

entirely another to be part of this momentous occasion. 5. Open ears and eyes. I have never been to an electronic music festival and I’ve never seen a 30-foot-tall paper mache head. And while there is sure to be plenty to take in in terms of music and art installations, I’m sure the people-watching and stories I’ll hear will be a whole other animal. Then there’s how the fifth annual event goes in its first year in Merritt. I’ll be interested to see and hear reactions from attendees and townspeople alike during and after the 2013 festival.

Office manager Carol Soames classifieds@ merrittherald.com

FAX (250) 378-6818

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

This Merritt Herald is a member of the 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, August 1, 2013 • 7

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YOUR OPINION Being drunk no Lots of lingering questions excuse for light around TransMountain leaks jail sentence Dear Editor,

Dear Editor, I was recently inspired to go on a crime spree after some lady got 21 days in jail for stabbing someone in the neck. Oh, yeah! The judge’s decision says she can even serve it on the weekends. All you need to commit a crime nowadays is to be “temporarily insane” or maybe just drunk. If you look online at the symptoms and behaviours of any mental illness, you can easily get diagnosed with your get-out-of-jail-free affliction. Can you see the message being sent here? James Holmes walks into a movie theatre and blows away 12 people he never even knew. Now they say “Well, he is not right in the head.” Of course he’s not right in the head! You have to be insane to go into a theatre and kill 12 innocent people with no reason — or even with a reason! But his mental condition somehow makes it less a crime? We are supposed to sit here and start asking what went wrong with this person and what can we do to help? What about their rights? Victims have no rights and there is no justice in our court systems. I don’t know why these two women were fighting or why it went to the point where one of them took a knife out. But I do know that, with any incident that involves a knife, it’s pretty safe to say they’re looking to kill. How far from the jugular vein did it hit? At what point does a knife attack become not serious? You know what? To hell with the courts! I’m going to protect myself and my family, and if it ever comes to knives or guns (I hope not), at least I can be positive and know that I won’t miss any time from work! Jordan Goerlitz Merritt

‘‘

Re: Coquihalla canyon oil spill, still in cleanup, after one month. The issues with this spill are the National Energy Board’s non-disclosure of the type of oil or gasoline spilled; the illegal and selective work site access; extreme forest fire hazard, and other provincial issues. 1. Was the spill jet fuel, gas, diesel, dilbit (tars sands oil), or a highly combustible combination of these, such as occurred at LacMegantic, Que.? Why was the downstream public (such as the residents of Hope, the First Nations, and the public highway users) as well as the premier, the Ministry of Transportation, the RCMP and the press never given this key information? 2. As you know, the spill site and most of the access road is on Crown land, and not on the old railway right-of-way, now owned by TransMountain. So why have only hikers and bikers with the intent of hiking the Trans-Canada Trail been allowed to receive access

‘There is now high public concern and anger, especially in Hope, about the fact that it clearly does not take one month to cart away 12 barrels of oil.’ — LETTER WRITER DAVID ELLIS

past the site, when all others have been selectively turned away? 3. Have you received permission from the premier and the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations to give the OK to Kinder Morgan to undertake this oil cleanup, given the present extreme forest fire risk conditions? 4. How was the “12 barrels” figure calculated? I estimate that the spill was probably 1,000 barrels, just from the pipe run-out. The spill site, well below the

jump off, was under very high pressure, and there are no shut off valves upstream of the spill site for many miles. There is now high public concern and anger, especially in Hope, about the fact that it clearly does not take one month to cart away 12 barrels of oil, and that the spill was obviously much larger than that. 5. Why has the NEB given approval to Kinder Morgan for the oil and soil removal in such extreme fire risk conditions? Does this not put the company’s visiting staff and the repair crew at unnecessary risk? 6. Where is the oil and soil being removed to? 7. How many oil and soil dump truck loads have now been taken out, in total, over the one month work period? Conclusion: the need for an immediate spill site stop work order, and immediate closure of the TransMountain pipeline during the high fire hazard period. David Ellis Independent pipeline critic Vancouver

Fines for non-compliance remain unclear From Page 6 So I tried the 1-800 number listed on the site. The call went to voice mail. Underscoring the urgency around compliance is the potential for a $200,000 fine. B.C. has been a leader in keeping a lid on red tape. The

province’s regulatory reform policy features a Regulatory Criteria Checklist to vet proposed legislation and regulation. The checklist includes a list of common sense questions designed to stop red tape in its tracks. So, I’m totally flummoxed. How did the new recycling rules

pass the checklist? The regulatory checklist clearly says that compliance costs, including time, need to be considered and should be reasonable for small business. If the time I spent wading through these new rules is any indication, there is no way the costs will be justified. In fact, I calculate

that businesses across B.C. will spend over a million hours just trying to understand the rules, let alone comply with them. Beyond that, MultiMaterial B.C. has not published the fees they plan to charge or any detail on how the regulations will work. That hardly meets the checklist’s “transparent

development criteria.” Under the “simple communication” category, the checklist asks whether the change can be described in one page. If it can, I haven’t seen it yet. The Clark government says minimizing red tape is a priority. We hope it will demonstrate

how serious it is by reversing course on a policy that makes no sense. A good start would be to immediately exempt small businesses from the mountain of red tape headed their way. Laura Jones is executive vice-president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.

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

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

Should there be more safety precautions at the spray park in Rotary Park?

PREVIOUS QUESTION Did you attend any City of Music concerts over the weekend? YES: 24% NO: 75%

LETTERS POLICY The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name, 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.

John Isaac 250-378-1586

Johnisaac@telus.net www.realestatemerritt.ca

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Over 1,200 Sq. Ft. of living space. Recent electrical upgrade, vinyl windows and siding. Loads of yard and parking space.

8 • THURSDAY, August 1, 2013

www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Community garden holds grand opening Celebrates new $18,000 grant

THE REGION

Logan Lake Info Centre break-in Logan Lake RCMP are asking for any information on a break-in at the Logan Lake Travel Info Centre on July 20. Just past midnight, unknown person(s) broke into the centre

at Chartrand Avenue. The culprits gained entrance by climbing onto the roof of the structure and removing a sky light in the ceiling. Nothing has been reported as stolen

at this time and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Logan Lake RCMP at (250) 5236222 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

DEMOLITION

SALE

KRM Contracting & Recyclers are tearing down Nicola Canford Elementary School and are selling off merchandise.

• Lockers • Toilets • Windows • Electrical • Wood • Doors • Wiring, Etc Merritt Mayor Susan Roline, Nicola Valley Community Gardens Society chair Katherine Shewchuk, and Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open Merritt’s new community garden. Directors of the gardens society and about 45 guests gathered at the site behind the hospital on Tuesday to celebrate the garden’s opening and new federal grant. Michael Potestio/Herald

By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

Merritt’s community garden, located behind the hospital celebrated its official opening with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday. Directors of the Nicola Valley Community Gardens Society, some of the gardeners who have plots at the site, and special guests including Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart, Merritt Mayor Susan Roline and city counsellor Dave Baker were at the opening. Sandy Labermeyer, a director for the Nicola Valley Community Gardens Society, said the group recently received a federal grant for just over $18,000 that which went a long way to getting the garden built, Labermeyer told the Herald. The money comes from the New Horizons Seniors Project Grant from the Government of Canada. She said the grant is given to projects that will help seniors in a community through seniors’ mentorship. Labermeyer said this project’s chair is a senior as well as its on-site manager and adminis-

trator, who all mentor younger members on how to do those specific jobs and how to garden. “It’s a project where seniors are called upon to lend their expertise and teach the younger members of the community to promote sustainability, but also raise awareness against elder abuse. Maybe some seniors aren’t able to afford fresh produce, so this is also giving them an opportunity,” Labermeyer said. She said the community gardens society also received some seed money from the United Way to get the project off the ground as well as private donations. Businesses and organizations donated funds, materials and labour to get the project to where it is today. She said the City of Merritt was also instrumental in the garen’s development by providing its water supply. Director Kate Anderson thanked those who helped get the community garden up and running. Tegart told the crowd these kinds of projects require passion to see completion. “This is more than growing plants — it’s growing community,”

Tegart said. Roline told the crowd she knows there have been a few community gardens in the past but thinks this one will likely be the most successful. “The organization that was put into this will take us a long way in providing both an opportunity for people to grow their own food and for [teaching people] how to grow their own food, which is becoming a lost art in our society today,” Roline said. Labermeyer said the Nicola Valley Community Gardens Society feels they will have more stability with this garden because they have so many partners and so much support in the project. “The community’s behind us. It is a sustainable plan that we have and people are becoming more aware of having fresh produce [and] just that whole accessibility to fresh food,” Labermeyer said. She said the community gardens society spoke with a woman involved with a former community garden project and have learned from her. She said they also consulted other commu-

nity gardens organizers in communities such as Rossland and Penticton. The community garden has already sold out the plots for its first growing season and some plots have been donated to the food bank, Labermeyer said. The garden has been in operation since May and many people are starting to get a large haul of produce from their four-by-eight plots. Liz Touet, who has garden number 10, is one of those people.She said a benefit of having a plot at the community garden is being able to share and socialize with people. “You can see the vines are overtaking the garden ... but the nice thing about that is that I can share the produce,” Touet said. “I was just talking to somebody who can’t grow zucchinis, and obviously I can, judging by my plot, so I’ll give them zucchinis.” This community garden was in the planning stages for about three years, Labermeyer said. The groundbreaking was in November and the garden was built by January, she said. It is now up and running with various plants and gardeners alike.

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THURSDAY, August 1, 2013 • 9

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

God Fred Eaglesmith and bandmate Tif Ginn along with the rest of the Travelling Steam Show (Justine Fischer on base, Kori Heppner on drums and Matty Simpson on guitar) play for a sold-out crowd of about 120 people at the Culture Club in downtown Merritt on July 27. Aside from playing music, the band auctioned off three pies, which brought in a total of $600 for Alberta flood relief efforts. Michael Potestio/Herald

the Word, the World

By Herman Kneller

The ti Th time off th the ref reformation formattion iss issue was moved by the Holy Spirit to study the Word of God for themselves, not accept what the teachers or leaders were telling them. This was a time when they had to be careful as to how they interpreted the Word of God for they could get into trouble with the authorities. They took in what they had been taught, but also how they saw the Word of God. These reformers were men of God but they were alone in most cases. The going was hard, but as they taught they found around them a group who believed the Word according to the word of the reformers. The church started. They all taught salvation through Jesus and believed the teachings of how Jesus came to earth as a babe and lived as a human so that He could understand what you and I have to face. He would become our example and our judge.

He also wanted us to understand the love of the Father. They showed Jesus’ life, His sufferings, and His death. They taught that He died in our place, but that He was resurrected on the third day after His cruciÀxion. In this He showed us what would happen to all death. It was just a sleep in the grave for a time then we would be resurrected to a new body, to never again be marred by sickness or death. Jesus then went to Heaven; another example for all who would accept Him and follow Him. The church that sprung up in the reformation differed in many of the interpretations of the Word and so we were left with a lot of churches to choose from. A man by the name of Miller, a Christian in the U.S. Army, discussed Christianity with other Christians in the army, but of different faiths. When the war was over he went back to his little farm in the northeast of the U.S. and to his church.

BC/A

Police encourage recording and reporting From Page 3 “Where are these Citizens on Patrol when things are going crazy in town?” Taylor said. Citizens on Patrol co-ordinator Lonni Bosko said she wishes people wouldn’t speculate as to what the group does but rather ask her about it. She said Citizens on Patrol members are not required to be incognito and sometimes stop and talk to people. The group has spotlights its members can use as well as a dash plaque of their crest to show they are patrols. Bosko also said they also don’t talk to people about stolen items as that is more of a function of the police. Bosko added that Citizens on Patrol is always looking for members and the only requirement for prospective members is passing a criminal record check. She said if any members of the Merritt Neighbourhood CrimeWatch would like to join Citizens on Patrol, they can call her. “I mean, the Neighbourhood CrimeWatch does a fantastic job, do not get me wrong, and they are welcome to join Citizens on Patrol,” Bosko said. Citizens on Patrol go out on four-hour night patrols and report suspicious activity to the

police. “We don’t put anybody in jeopardy. We are a mobile organization, we don’t do foot patrols, we don’t get out and check doors. We could, but because we are a mobile patrol, we are in our vehicles,” Bosko said, adding patrols always go out in pairs. She said all crooks know the Citizens on Patrol cars. Dunsmore said she hasn’t spoken with members of the CrimeWatch group but does see some

of their Facebook posts. “I always tell people to watch their own neighbourhoods and I also encourage them, if they’re coming home from work late at night or if they’re coming home from Kamloops and it’s two in the morning, take a drive around your neighbourhood and watch for something suspicious and report it to the police,” Dunsmore said. She said at this point, the RCMP haven’t seen the group breaking any

laws. As for the group’s future, Jay said he’d like to see it become unnecessary and see every homeowner take initiative to monitor and deter crimes in their neighbourhoods as well as take responsibility for their children. Jay said members of the Neighbourhood CrimeWatch have yet to reach out to the RCMP regarding what the group can and can’t do, as it’s still in its development stage.

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10 • THURSDAY, August 1, 2013

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Examining the economics of fishing OTHMAR VOHRINGER The OUTDOORSMAN How does fishing impact Merritt’s economy? This is a question I have asked myself many times in the past. I can tell you how much hunters and anglers contribute to the economy provincewide: a very impressive sum that amounted last year to over $420 million from the sport fishing sector and another $350 million from the hunting sector. Add to that over 12,000 province-wide work places and positions that serve this economic sector (hunters and anglers) and many millions more in equipment and travel expenses and you get a good idea of what an economic powerhouse sport fishing and hunting are. How much of that

money is made right here in our community? I searched far and wide but couldn’t find any figures. This leaves me no choice but to rely on my own observations. Long before we moved to this community, I knew that Merritt was a hub for anglers and hunters. Some came here to fish and hunt while others stopped in to refill their gas tanks and shop for groceries. After moving here with my wife, I could personally witness just how many vehicles with boats and ATV trailers were parked at our hotels, gas stations and local businesses. In the fall, these convoys would repeat again every weekend. Just how many hunters and anglers visiting us became clear to me when I co-wrote the Merritt Hunting and Fishing Guide published by the now closed down Merritt News. We published between five and six thousand copies and they were all gone by the end of year. That means that five to six thousand anglers

and hunters picked up these guide magazines and it stands to reason that most of them came from out of town. That is a good chunk of our tourism and I am surprised that our tourist information and city council barely cater to or even mention the impressive array that our city and area has to offer to the

outdoor sportsperson. Maybe in the future our tourist industry should think about how we can make Merritt even more attractive to the visiting hunters and anglers. It certainly is an avenue that should be explored more and be taken advantage of. Some years ago, I spoke to a city councillor about that but

quickly got the impression that this is perhaps something, especially hunting, that they did not want to make too much of a deal about it in this day and age. What I understood from that comment is that hunters and hunting are perhaps viewed as “politically incorrect” and would rather not ruffle the feathers of those who

are opposed to their activity. The way I feel about this lack of commitment is this: the opinions of those people who oppose living in a traditional way of the land are not the people Merritt should be catering to. In a similar vein, in my humble opinion, it is foolish to ignore the fact that a bigger slice

of that $240 and $350 million could actually stay in our community if we market the hunting/fishing sector of our tourism with more purpose. Downplaying what is such a big part of our community and lifestyle – and what attracts so many people from all over Canada and the U.S. – is like throwing away money.

THE PROVINCE

Cdn. food high quality (NC) — As a farmer and a mother, Irmi Critcher has insight into the food on her local grocery store shelves that many other shoppers don’t have. “I understand consumers have concerns when they are buying food – and I look at labels as well,” says Critcher, a grain farmer from the Peace Region of B.C. “But I also know how much scrutiny Canadian farmers are under when they produce that food. I know what high quality standards are in place and I know when I buy a Canadian product that I’m getting a good, wholesome and safe product.” When it comes to the crop protection products farmers use on their crops, Critcher says not only are the products well-regulated, they’re necessary. “I think people have to realize how fragile the growing season can be; there’s 101 ways to kill a crop. There’s nothing more devastating when you’ve got a good stand of crop coming out of the ground, it looks all nice and lush and green, you go back five days later, or a week later and a pest has moved in and absolutely destroyed it. “We need to have tools available for us in order to stop that from happening.” www.newscanada.com

If you see a wildfire call *5555 on your cell. Nearly half of all wildfires are preventable. Please, be responsible in our forests.

To learn more visit BCWildfire.ca

THURSDAY, August 1, 2013 • 11

www.merrittherald.com

BUSINESS

Mortgage your home, not future DAVID L. BROWN Managing YOUR MONEY Buying a home is probably the largest purchase you will ever make. It’s vital that you protect it – and your family’s future – by choosing the right insurance. But should you go the easy route and opt for lenders’ mortgage insurance because it’s so convenient to obtain and the premiums are simply added to your monthly mortgage payment? Here are some factors for considering other options: With lenders’ mortgage insurance,

ance to transfer to a new mortgage, lender, or possibly even a renewal but your personal policy moves with you. Your lender may assess your coverage only when you make a claim, leaving you unsure of the coverage you have. With a personal policy, your medical history is reviewed before the policy is issued–so you can sure of coverage when needed. So, you should go your own way. But what types of insurance are best? Permanent life insurance is among the few assets that provide tax-free liquidity to your estate precisely when necessary. Disability insurance is also worth considering because a disability accounts for 48 per cent of all mortgage forclosures.1 Include your

the lender is the owner and beneficiary, not your family. But when you own the policy, you designate the beneficiary. Lenders’ mortgage insurance only covers you for the declining balance on your mortgage but your premiums remain the same. With a personal policy, your coverage will not decrease. Lenders’ mortgage insurance expires when the mortgage is paid off. Personal policy coverage continues after the mortgage is paid. Your lender can change premiums or cancel the policy at any time. Only you make changes or cancel your personal policy and your premiums are guaranteed for the life of the plan. Lenders usually do not allow your insur-

spouse in your insurance planning, too. With four separate coverages – life insurance and disability insurance to cover you and your spouse–not tied to your mortgage, you enjoy portable coverage that won’t be changed or cancelled and the benefits are paid directly to your family. So instead of taking the easy route and building lenders’ insurance into your mortgage payments, consider flexible coverage you control– build personal insurance coverage into your personal budget. Talk to your professional advisor to find the right mortgage, and other insurance protection, for you. CIA 86-92 Aggregate Table & 1985 Commissioner’s Disabil1

ity Table A (Experience Table) This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm), presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor for specific advice about your circumstances. For more information on this topic please contact your Investors Group Consultant. Insurance products and services are distributed by I.G. Insurance Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm). Insurance licence sponsored by The Great-West Life Assurance Company outside of Québec. Contact David Brown at 250-3150241 or at david. brown@investorsgroup.com to book your appointment.

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CRA offers new mail online service (NC) — Did you know that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has added a new feature to its online services that will give businesses the choice to receive most of their CRA mail online? Through My Business Account, businesses that sign up for this service will receive an email notification when there’s mail to view in their secure online account. No more paper correspondence to pile up! Using the CRA’s new online mail service is faster and easier than managing paper correspondence from the CRA. It also reduces your cost of doing business by saving you time. You’ll be able to receive notices of assessment and reassessment and some letters online for the accounts you select—corporate and GST/HST accounts, for example. More types of correspondence, including

My Business Account at cra.gc.ca/mybusinessaccount. Then select “Manage online mail” and follow the steps to

payroll-related mail, will be available online in the future. So how does it all work? First you need to register for or log into

select the accounts for which you would like to receive online mail. To find out more information about services and tools for busi-

“Breaking the Chain of Abuse”

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HERALD MERRITT Runners convene for Merritt race ’s Nicola Valley

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disorders, with mental than those and becomes the statement says. Review Board royal assent B.C. ing, it gets In 2011, the escorted visits Cordon. the Schoenborn law. five-year-old that reminds from the Port old Max, and Galt have worked boards granted “This is a bill into the community facility where provincial reviewit is Clarke and of victims all psychiatric courts and Minister Stephen Coquitlam held. That permission we – the families– have been asking matter. In fact, Rob with Prime that victims reminder that victims he was being after opposition from Attorney GeneralHeritage across Canada not criminally a soon be found more than than Harper, and Canadian was revoked who said she was for: people will hopefully THE HERALD the bill Nicholson rald.com get better supports matter — it statement says. Moore on Clarke’s family, responsible in place; the communewsroom@merritthe Minister Jamesyears. They say the the law,” the of a woman addresses imballiving nearby. are currently receives the protecrequest to transfer for nearly fivebring victims’ rights by The bill also Family members Schoenborn’s nity as a whole were murdered legislation surrounding and the famifacility in Selkirk, changes will with those of people responances in the time whose childrenMerritt in 2008 are tions [it] deserve[s]; by the B.C. not criminallyis no legal to a psychiatric in into balance finally get more responsible. those found of the Not their father but has Man. was approved that there lies of victims a statement released in support found not criminallyits second readsible, includingnotify members of the Review Board in February, famiReform speaking up to heal,” reads her cousin, Stacy The bill passedof Commons late out. Clarke’s Responsible obligation to a high-risk offender Criminally yet to be carried by Clarke and as well, saying advocacy web- ing in the House vote of 242 to if the community a facility, and ly opposes that move Selkirk area. Act. on the victims’ with a from a change Galt, by month the would escapes in last or with not The act leavesMARCH now be reviewed she has family site 4darcie.ca. was found for those found classifying those on before 34 and will treating and MADNESS release reviews from annual by reason committee and reported Allan Schoenborn historiesThedifferently Merritt Secondary responsible lengthy violent criminally responsibleevery three School class not criminally for the murhearings its third reading. its third readof 2013 hearings to Darcie Clarke’s family children, hit the streets G of mental disorder If the bill basses HOMES and Clarke’s TIN for their years, which will correct an imbalFEATURE eight-yearders of his grand march G LIS Kaitlynne, system. down Voght members say TIN W 10-year-old current review Street on G LIS NE Frid for Friday ance in the being proposed is what TIN commencem W By “What is Michael LIS ent. Full story on Potestio NE W THE HERALD page 3, more photos NE reporter@merrit It was in section 2 bth rancher therald.com Manager Financial Services B. Emily Wessel/Herald nice, 2 bed, shop w/addiPat Sibilleau’s • Very ™ detached Fort Merritt ½ • 32x18 McMurra water The City city Duplex Immaculate council including, last tions “It’s fruit trees, y. down two of Merritt Road • before acres w/ a upgrades newmore! Kane Valley is • Many she moves paint. meeting• 51 onmanagers and much adventure M3957 it’s nothing Áooring & position 1.6 acres log home • siding, She said •will to a new feature cul-de-sac be and bedroom ; 3 quiet working in off -grid the job on & Alberta. level, tank will be a •a 3staff $285,000 Privacy, in any way,”against Merritt through • Located to H/W M3954 After • Seclusion& busy one. there shortage • Upgrades said Sibilleau. with a council “I had a City of two years with -6181 250-378-6184 “I’ll be of living Merritt the summer, for mostM3953 $154,000 more! the great run Merritt, 250-378 9 kms from is quite rewarding time, what doing the r.ca there, fullI think I’ve 1B8 • Fax: is moving Sibilleau Chief • 20 acres, here, and more Administr Phone: BC V1K ,” $195,000 ative www.realto on to pursue fencing, Creek contribute M3832 of my desk I do off a corner “Pat’s Ave., Merritt, At the Sibilleau said. • All new Officer d merritt 1988 Quilchena productiv given us some cil gave meeting, coun$199,000 with a laugh.here,” she administr inside sh said epage.ca/ real her ation and Review Herald. and she’s ity improvements www.royall applause a round of Estate Sibilleau council, Merritt when full Real said she time here,”invested a lot of the proud of See our is most her departure discussing of edition Mayor Susan . Merritt ship she’s the good rela “That Noble said. relationthe Thursday Roline opportuni said, she has an thanked council established w Sibilleau ty that’s during her with hard Merritt. going to for time in work all the fit into her long-rang and certainly the city. she has done e plans “To be for compete we couldn’t that kind able to establish Noble establi of relationsh can do is with that, so all departure said Sibilleau’s ip leaves a as she’s really support we to fill. big hole supported her us.”

MothEmily Wessel By

Helping

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Advertising: sales@merrittherald.com Publisher: publisher@merrittherald.com Editorial: newsroom@merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com Ph: 378-4241 • Fax: 378-6818 2090 Granite Avenue, P.O. Box 9, Merritt, B.C.

+ Earn extra money, tax-free + + + Get exercise while getting paid + + Job experience with references + + Ideal starter job for kids For more info please contact Yvonne Phone: 250-378-4241 Email: circulation@merrittherald.com

12 • THURSDAY, August 1, 2013

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

NVCAC extra money comes up again at council By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

What’s old was new again at the City of Merritt regular council meeting last Tuesday. The decision made last month to provide the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council’s cultural mapping group with a total of $14,500 was brought back by Merritt Mayor Susan Roline. Roline decided to return the decision as councillors Clara Norgaard and Kurt Christopherson participated in the vote last month to give the group the money, but both councillors had declared a conflict of interest with the NVCAC during the Jan. 17 budget meeting. “Under the Community Charter, section 100, once the council member declares a conflict of interest in regards to an organization, they remain in conflict on any further matters dealing with that organization until they receive legal opinion that they are no longer in a conflict of interest,” Roline told council. Roline asked Christopherson if he remained in conflict with the arts council but before he could reply Coun. Harry Kroeker said he thought it was an inappropriate question and that he believes it’s up to members of council to declare when they feel they are in conflict. Kroeker asked Roline why council is always being held up on the issue of conflict of interest, and said he has been asked if the mayor has an ulterior motive in pushing compliance with conflict of interest rules. Roline said her only motive is ensuring she’s doing her job right. “I have a responsibility to this community and the taxpayers to make sure we’ve got good governance around this table and we’re not putting our community at risk,” Roline said. “That’s all I’m trying to avert, any risk to the community and to our councillors.”

Roline added she wouldn’t want to see a councillor in conflict get sued and incur large legal bills. Coun. Alastair Murdoch said he thought the mayor was reading too far into the section of the charter and what it covers, saying it refers to a matter, not an organization. Murdoch said his interpretation was that there is a difference between conflict of interest pertaining to a matter as opposed to an organization. Roline said her legal advisor confirmed there is no difference between a matter and an organization in this instance. Christopherson said he doesn’t believe he was in conflict when he voted for the motion. He said he hasn’t been a director with the organization since resigning last October, nor does he attend meetings or have any say in its decisions. Christopherson said the monies for the cultural mapping project go toward the project and not the arts council itself. “The arts council is not allowed to use any of the monies for any of its own purposes. The monies are exclusively for development costs of a city-requested project,” Christopherson said. “If this motion was to provide monies for arts council uses, I would step away from the table in a minute, but this motion is not about feathering the nest of the arts council, it is about performing a task requested by city council.” Christopherson said he hadn’t had time to seek legal advice and was unaware he was supposed to be declared clear of conflict of interest by a lawyer until the Friday afternoon prior to the meeting. Norgaard said she did seek legal advice on the issue, and was told she wasn’t in conflict of interest. Norgaard said she wasn’t sure if she was in conflict with motions pertaining to the

NVCAC, and she isn’t now because she’s simply a member of teh group and doesn’t influence the group’s decisions or serve on its board of directors. The motion for the $9,500 was carried once again unanimously and the vote on the additional $5,000 carried 4-2. No votes changed this time around, the only difference being the absence of Coun. Goetz, who voted against the motion the first time it was brought forward. Christopherson, Kroeker, Murdoch and Norgaard voted in favour of providing the additional $5,000, which the cultural mapping group never requested. That funding was awarded to them in 2012 as seed money to undertake the city’s cultural mapping initiative, but after a lapse in communication, it was put back into retained earnings as it wasn’t claimed. Roline told the Herald the revisited vote couldn’t wait until a later date because there is only a 30-day window for her to bring back a motion. Roline said she didn’t anticipate a change in the outcome of the vote but brought it back because she wanted to ensure the proper process was taken. She said it is up to Christopherson if he still wants to seek legal advice to clarify his position. Christopherson told the Herald he supposes he will have to seek legal advice as he wouldn’t want to do something contrary to the law. When asked if he would, Christopherson said he didn’t have the answer at that time. Christopherson said he’s told the mayor and administration if the arts council is the problem, the cultural mapping program should be funneled through another organization. Roline said the project is important to the community because it will help various organizations moved forward with grant applications to the provincial and federal governments.

POLICE REPORT

Two stolen cars located in Merritt area Sometime between 9 p.m. on July 20 and 7 p.m. on July 21, a 1990 two-door red Ford Mustang (B.C. licence plate 906 NSN) was stolen from a residence in the 2300 block of Jackson Avenue. The vehicle was located on July 25 on Hamilton Hill Road, east of Merritt. The vehicle had been observed at this location on July 22 but was not

reported to police until July 25. The witness observed the vehicle’s ignition appeared to be damaged. Sometime between 1 a.m. and 2 p.m. on July 22, a 2001 blue Mazda Tribute (B.C. licence plate 817 NNV) was stolen from a residence in the 1300 block of Spruce Avenue. The vehicle was located on Midday Valley Road at

approximately 6:30 p.m. that day. Both investigations are ongoing.

Merritt detachment: (250) 378-4262 Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS

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Great 4 bedrm home with HW floors, open concept with big kitchen & comes with appl. Some reno’s have been done like new roof, windows & exterior doors. Main bath has jetted soaker tub.

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.

Great views from this Bench rancher with full walkout basement. HW, porcelain & carpet flooring. Vaulted ceilings, open design kitchen, 2 bedrms up, 2 baths. Bsmt roughed in inlaw suite.

Executive 3 bedrm rancher on immaculate half acre lot. Over 1900 sq.ft. with maple HW, ceramic tile & custom window coverings. Huge covered deck & double garage. Backs onto Nicola River.

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

Great opportunity to get into the rental market. 6 strata titled strata units, within walking distance to all amenities. Being sold below assessed value at $87,900 per unit. All currently rented.

#2018

#1919

#2037

#2043

#2017

#2010

#1963

#2031

#2022

#1989

#2044

$229,000

DETACHED GARAGE/SHOP

$379,000 HAS WORKSHOP

$210,000

$89,900 HAS BIG SHOP

OPPORTUNITY

$240,000

$289,000

$295,000

$369,900

$459,0000

$389,000

$527,400

START OR RETIRE HERE

CORNER LOT

IMMACULATE HOME

HUGE LOT

AMAZING YARD

REVENUE PROPERTY

GORGEOUS APARTMENT

D L O S 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

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.

Great holding property with 4 lots, one with cozy 1 bedrm rental home plus 3 other lots (zoned C2) being sold as a package. Has a single car garage. Close to downtown core.

Cute 2 bedrm home in great location with 30x24 insulated shop and 1 car garage. Home had new furnace in 2009, newer windows & doors, U/G sprinkling and fully fenced. Includes appliances.

Great starter or retirement home on huge 120x100 lot. Well kept older 2 bedrm home with family room & den in fully fin. bsmt. Has single garage, storage sheds, RV prkg & lane access.

Good family neighbourhood, close to school & shopping. This home has cathedral entry with 2 bedrms up, 2 down, 2 full baths, large living rm and sundeck above carport. Large corner lot.

4 bedrm home with fantastic views, RV parking & double garage. Eating area, living rm with gas F/P & kitchen all with views. Main level has family rm with gas F/P, office & laundry & 2 bedrms.

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

Fantastic 3 bedrm home with private oasis in backyard, pond & water features. Main floor has new kitchen w/eating area, 2 bedrms, laundry & family rm with hobby rm & games rm downstairs.

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

Corner, upper unit with custom Mill Creek cabinets & tiled back splash & S/S appliances. Living rm has B/I cabinetry & TV stand. Totally reno’d bathrm with extensive tile work.

#1868

#1905

#1995

#2032

#2016

#1981

#1979

#1883

#2013

#1901

#2028

$229,900

SPECTACULAR VIEWS

$229,900

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.

Cute 2 bedroom rancher with open floor plan and nicely finished. Located in quiet rural neighbourhood. Property has very nice yard with several mature fruit trees. Includes appliances.

#1980

#2024

$178,000

$159,900

$187,900

WATERFRONT MOBILE

QUIET SETTING

D L O S $439,000

$299,000

Call us for a FREE Market Evaluation

D L O S 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.

#1969

$54,900

Check out our website for more details and photos!

$267,500

$349,900

$414,900

$319,000

$199,900

$167,400

IN LOWER NICOLA

INVESTMENT PROPERTY

CURB APPEAL

COMPLETELY RENOVATED

FIRST TIME BUYERS

OPPORTUNITY

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.

Book an appt. to view this 3 bedrm bungalow with fenced lot, mature landscaping & lane access. Private patio with hot tub. Open oak kitchen/dining room. Family room with wood airtight.

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.

#1844

#1951

#1960

#1947

#2012

#1906

$279,900

$75,000

$177,000

$84,900

$94,999

$50,000

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