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MERRITT HERALD TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2014 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS
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Police seize over 500 pot plants near Merritt Outdoor growop south of city busted after tip
COQUIHALLA CRASH Passengers and bystanders examine the damage to the tour bus that crashed on the Coquihalla Highway Thursday afternoon, closing the main thoroughfare for hours. Fifty-six people were on board the bus and over 40 people were injured in the crash. See the full story on page 3. Photo courtesy of Global B.C.
Rezoning for hotel sent to hearing By Michael Potestio the herald
reporter@merrittherald.com
For the second time in as many months, a proposed hotel is moving through the process of becoming a reality in Merritt. At last Tueday’s regular council meeting, city council approved and gave first and second reading to an application to rezone the property at 3969 Crawford Ave. near the Wagon West Travel Plaza and sent the matter to a public hearing. The application
would rezone the 4.62acre property from C7 (tourism commercial) to C4 (highway commercial) to allow for a hotel, convention centre and restaurant. According to the application, the hotel development comes in two phases, with a cultural centre and retail stores planned for the ON TOP
K K ART WAL ERS TAL ORGANIZ PAGE 4
hon, decided to move ahead with the land use amendment on his own. “Staff are concurrently reviewing a building permit application and the application for a development permit in anticipation of this zoning amendment being adopted,� chief administrative officer
Tracy Dunsmore wrote in a press release. The plants are more noticeable because they’re ready to be harvested in the summer, Dunsmore said. Police are continuing their investigation and no charges had been laid as of press time on Friday. RCMP are reminding people to be cautious of the dangers associated with grow-ops and to contact local police if they come across them.
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second phase — which will require another rezoning application. The City of Merritt is in the process of an overhaul of the city’s zoning bylaw, which would apply to this property. Rather than wait for the entire zoning bylaw to reach adoption, the applicant, Kulwant Sek-
Allan Chabot said. Council’s vote to approve the application and send it to a public hearing was unanimous, except for the vote of Coun. Clara Norgaard, who was absent from the meeting. The date of the public hearing was not determined by press time. Property owners within 30 metres of the one in question will be notified of the proposed land use amendment prior to the public hearing.
Merritt RCMP shut down an outdoor marijuana grow op last Wednesday, seizing 529 marijuana plants. The plants were between one and three feet tall, and the bust was the result of an investigation conducted after a tip. Police believed the plants to have a street value of more than $500,000. The grow-op was located in a forested area south of Merritt. Mounties said about 30 trees in the area were cut to provide space and sun for the plants. They also said there was a large quantity of garbage scattered around the area. At this time of year, RCMP often receive calls about this type of growop from backcountry users who stumble upon them, RCMP Const.
HERALD MERRITT Runners convene for Merritt race
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of the last He was one when the Kamloops. finish line but to cross the had amassed back at crowd, which in Voght Park, saw lineSSA MA everyone the starting to GE PRO the finish, to back GRA him heading even went its fourth annual cheered. Oborne the event Merritt held PAGEns M SUCCESS Butcher. Sunday and in jog a bit with BOWL running maratho 5 Country Run all ages participate said of ERS NAT Butcher started saw people and half-marathon runs. at age 66 and on for merri retired he parION tther 10K 300 when inspirati ald.co the 5K, a big were about r was m PAGE AL CHAMPS his daughte In total, there organizer Mary 25 event [triathhim. ticipants, said the Ironman said, done “She’s [She] , and Jorgensen. led the way. so I did,� 157 runners lon] and she The 5K had 100 participants. run?’ why don’t you ‘Dad, halfthe the 10K attracted . people ran run as well. said Butcher Thirty-three bccla came out to arssifie Families d.come and her eight-ye5K marathon. Club of Merritt Asseltin Rotary the Helen Former r Paige finished Oborne partici- The old daughte . Her husband Graeme race. president Darch half-marathon race togetherold son Isaac were not pated in the an avid runner, having is in-law, and six-yearns in 53 68-year-old & Even her motherthree maratho on the 5K far behind. completing weeks ago. When asked e, 82, took Bernice Asseltin days just two s to run so much in Country Run. Oborne race at the her first 5K and it was how he manage period of time, ,� Helen “This was while such a short doing it together gotta do it race with her our first time answered, “You running the you’re young.to tomorrow, I’m young,� said about daughter. “Relative Herald. he told the y young runner Run’ Page 3 Another relativelhalf-marathon See ‘Country the in from part to take old Bruce Butcher was 78-yearThe
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MERRI TT HE RALD News Vo ice
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the Merritt Country in the 5K at rald a pack of runners Ian Webster/He Little leads as Ontario. r-old Calvin as far away of life and from RACES Seven-yea OFF TO THE participants from all walks races attracted
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disorders, with mental s than those t says. and become the statemen B.C. Review Board royal assent ing, it gets In 2011, the orn escorted visits Cordon. the law. five-year-old the Port that reminds granted Schoenb old Max, and Galt have worked “This is a bill al review boards into the community from facility where provinci Clarke and of victims all it is psychiatric courts and Minister Stephen Coquitlam held. That permission we – the families– have been asking matter. In fact, with Prime y General Rob that victims reminder that victims he was being after opposition from across Canada not criminally be Harper, AttorneCanadian Heritage than a soon found y more than was revoked people and was for: will hopefull THE HERALD.com the bill who said she Nicholson get better supports matter — it statement says. Moore on merrittherald Clarke’s family, responsible in place; the communewsroom@ Minister Jamesyears. They say the y the law,� the nearby. protecs of a woman addresses imbalare currentl request to transfer ding living for nearly fivebring victims’ rights receives the The bill also Family member murdered by Schoenborn’sfacility in Selkirk, nity as a whole s]; and the famiwere legislation surroun changes will with those of people ric lly responances in the whose childrenMerritt in 2008 are to a psychiat tions [it] deserve[ ble. not crimina get more time d by the B.C.has in into balance lly responsi those found g that there is no legal Man. was approve their father in support of the Not released of victims finally y, but crimina t lies not readfound a statemen its second sible, includinnotify members of the Review Board in Februar famiReform speaking up to heal,� reads her cousin, Stacy The bill passed Commons late out. Clarke’s Responsible obligation to a high-risk offender saying Criminally to be carried by Clarke andvictims’ advocacy web- ing in the House of ity if and yet move as well, area. of 242 to that vote facility, the a the commun a Act. on with from ly opposes change Galt, by a in the Selkirk last month or escapes ca. The act would those found not leavesMARC g those with now be reviewed she has family site 4darcie. for H classifyin orn was found on before 34 and will differently ESS The treating and MADN release reviews Allan Schoenb ble from annual histories ble by reason committee and reported Merritt Second lly responsi lengthy violent criminally responsi every three ary School not crimina for the mur- , hearings its third reading. class of its third read2013 hit hearings to Darcie Clarke’s family children of mental disorder the streets If the bill basses HOMES and Clarke’s for their grand years, which will correct an imbalFEATURE ders of his eight-year march down Kaitlynne, system. members say Voght Street 10-year-old current review on Friday ance in the being proposed is what for comme By ncement. “What is Michael Potest Full story on page THE HERA io 3, more LD photos in It was section B. Manager Financial Servic Emily Wessel/H erald Merritt Pat Sibilleau’s es Fort McM The City city last urray. before she council meetin down two of Merritt “It’s a new is managers adven position moves to a new g it’s nothin She said will be workin and in Albert g agains ture; the job will be a in any way,� t Merri a staff shorta g through a. After busy one. there said Sibille tt with a counc “I had a City of two years with “I’ll be of the summ ge for most 78-6181 au. the great Merri doing 250-3 rewarding,� il is quite run here, time, what tt, Sibille there, fullI think I’ve is movin Administrati er, Chief altor.ca Phone: au www.re g contri of my desk I do off a corne “Pat’s given to some At the Sibilleau said. an oppor on to pursue Matt Noble ve Officer succes buted us some productivity said after with a laugh.here,� she said r cil gave hermeeting, counadministrati ses of the ge.ca/merritt Buffalo. tunity in Wood regular w inside d. real yallepa a impro Revie There a counc round of and she’s applause www.ro vemen , she will but an opporon and counc il meetin Estate t Heral the mana Sibille Tuesday. g on be full Real n of the Merrit time here,�invested a lot ts tunity came il, proud au said she is her depar when discussing up that planning ger of financial See our of most ture. Merri I Noble said. of ay editio for the region Mayor Susan ship she’s the good relatio “That said, down as couldn’t turn municipality tt the Thursd al an advan Roline opportunity she has an , which council established withn- thanked cement includes for my career during her that’s fit hard workSibilleau for all Merritt. way north. so I’m on time in the andinto her long-r going to my � the city. she has done ange certainly NOW N NO “To be WB M E for compe BL BLEN LEN we couldnplans ENDI DING R R that kind able to establ NG Noble G te ’t I T T ish of relatio can do with that, so all departure said Sibilleau’s nship is really we leaves a suppo as to she’s REAL fill. big hole rt her supported us.� EST
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2 • TUESDAY, September 2, 2014
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Vaccinate for West Nile: vets to horse owners
Two Interior horses test positive; not risk to humans By Michael Potestio the herald
reporter@merrittherald.com
Two horses in the Thompson-Nicola area have tested positive for an infection of the West Nile virus. One horse is in Cache Creek while the other is in Ashcroft. The discovery has prompted veterinarians to warn horse owners to ensure their equine are vaccinated. However, the Ministry of Agriculture says it isn’t ready to recognize the reported cases just yet. The ministry stated it is following up these cases with the horses’ veterinarians to collect all the information needed to verify the reports. One of a variety of tests needs to be conducted to assess changes in antibody levels, or a brain tissue sample following the animal’s death is needed to confirm the virus. Both of the horses in question are alive. Doctor John Twidale, chair of the equine committee for the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association-Society of B.C. Veterinarians (CVMASBCV), stated the two cases are the first in the area in B.C. On its website, the BC Centre for Disease Control lists five cases of positive indicators of West Nile virus in horses in B.C. since 2009. Twidale said to his knowledge, those horses had travelled out of B.C. at some point. “These are the first two that have not been out of B.C. that I’m aware of,� Twidale said. Blood tests conducted by Cornell University on the two horses show a high level of antibody against the virus, which indicates an active infection, a CVMA-SBCV press release stated. Twidale said the disease is only carried to horses or humans via infected mosqui-
‘‘
‘Not every mosquito is carrying the virus; in fact, very few will, but there’s always that risk with horses.’ — Dr. john twidale veterinarian
toes, which contract the disease from biting infected birds. He also said it is not transmitted horse-to-horse or person-to-person and cannot be transmitted to humans by other animals. “It’s not every mosquito bite that’s going to cause it; it’s not an epidemic. It’s going to be sporadic cases, but we just want horse owners to know that it is in the area and the only real prevention is vaccination ahead of exposure,� Twidale said. The clinical signs of West Nile virus in horses include muscle tremors of the face, chest, body and hind legs, as well as fever, depression and the inability to stand in severe cases, the press release stated. Twidale said it is too late to vaccinate a horse after symptoms of West
Nile become apparent. Horses should be given the vaccination annually, and those receiving it for the first time should be given two doses of the vaccine about three weeks apart, and then a single dose on an annual basis. Twidale said horse owners should reach out to their local veterinarian to obtain the vaccine. He said he’s been expecting to see cases of West Nile virus in horses appear in B.C. for the past five years as cases have been seen in the prairie provinces and in the U.S. “Not every mosquito is carrying the virus; in fact, very few will, but there’s always that risk with horses,� Twidale said. He said bringing horses into a barn at night is one way to help
protect them against mosquitoes. Carol Swan, a spokesperson with the BC Centre for Disease Control, said there have been no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans this year in B.C., although there have been human cases in the past. The first human cases of West Nile in B.C. were reported in 2009, according to the Centre for Disease Control’s website. There were some cases in 2007 and 2008, but they were considered to be travelrelated. Its website also stated West Nile virus is considered to be the most widely spread vector-borne disease in North America. Between 2002 and 2012, there were 5,094 cases of West Nile in Canada in which people showed symptoms. Most people who are infected will not show symptoms, but the disease can be serious for one in every 150 people who are infected, resulting in hospitalization. This includes swelling of the brain and polio-like paralysis, but
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the fatality rate is 0.1 per cent. People can avoid West Nile by avoiding mosquito bites. People can clean up mosquitofriendly areas such as pools of standing water; wear long-sleeved shirts and jackets; and wear mosquito repellent to avoid being bitten.
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Five people critically injured in bus crash By Emily Wessel the herald
newsroom@merrittherald.com
Forty-three people were taken to hospital after a tour bus on its way to Vancouver crashed on the Coquihalla Thursday afternoon. Five people were listed in critical condition and another 10 in serious condition as of the Herald’s Friday press deadline. At that time, there were no confirmed deaths from the crash. Another 28 people had non-life-threatening injuries. In total, there were 56 people aboard the bus. The bus is believed to have hit the median, skidded across several lanes of traffic and rolled into a ditch. Some of the passengers aboard the bus were ejected in the singlevehicle accident, which occurred around 2:30 p.m. Nineteen ambulances and six helicopters attended the scene and transported 10 of the injured people to Royal Inland Hospital in Kam-
loops, 22 to Kelowna General Hospital and 11 to the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre. At the scene, offduty doctors and nurses helped paramedics provide care to the injured tourists. Other bystanders at the scene were able to help translate between emergency personnel and the passengers, who came from different parts of Canada, the U.S. and China. Bystanders helped divert traffic from the gridlock back to Coldwater Road by driving down the shoulder in an effort to clear the road for ambulances heading to the crash site. Richmond-based Super Vacation Canada commissioned the bus and its driver from another company, which remained unidentified by press time. The highway was closed well into the night, and fully reopened around 1:30 Friday morning. RCMP are continuing their investigation.
Coquihalla bus crashes
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On Dec. 17, 2012, over 40 people were taken to hospital after the Greyhound bus they were on rolled down an embankment near the Helmer Road exit. On Nov. 21, 2012, a bus carrying about 35 seniors was involved in a six-vehicle pileup on the Coquihalla north of Merritt. About 20 people were taken to hospital in that incident, which occurred during a snowstorm.
GOOD MORNING! Opinion --------------------- 6-7 Sports ------------------------- 9 Classified ------------------- 10
REMEMBER WHEN? From the Herald archives: September 2001 Teachers set for strike vote
Right, above: People watch as ambulances manoeuvre through the lineup of gridlocked vehicles on the Coquihalla Highway Thursday afternoon. Right, below: Bystanders helped direct traffic so the ambulances could make it to the scene, while some cars were diverted back to Coldwater Road to help clear the highway. Emily Wessel/Herald
Public invited to annual insulator show By Emily Wessel the herald
newsroom@merrittherald.com
Local insulator collector Bob Scafe is quite the host. Each year, Scafe and his wife Bev open up their ranch to people interested in checking out his impressive collection of insulators — the porcelain pieces of electrical lines that prevent electricity from being lost. His fall show kicks off Friday at 9 a.m., but Scafe’s fellow insulator collectors from around North America are making their trek to the Insulator Ranch starting today.
These friends of the local collector will camp out at the property, set up booths with their own wares, and swap goods and stories over the course of the week. Scafe’s 7,000-strong collection comes from all over the world, and he has them set up by region at his property. And for each and every insulator, there’s a story. Scafe’s own story as a collector began at a rest area near Manning Park, where he spied a few small insulators on the ground by a fallen electrical pole. They looked nice, so he
snapped them up. A few hours later, he found a few more on sale in Princeton, so he snapped those up too. The rest is history. It’s the history these ceramic contraptions hold that kept Scafe going. Insulators are another lens through which people can view history — similar to the way a person can learn about the world by collecting coins or studying railways, Scafe said. The show is open to the public at 3045 Spanish Creek Place, off the Coldwater Road. For more information, contact Scafe at 378-2787.
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Bob Scafe shares some of his expansive knowledge of electrical wire insulators with Bench Elementary students last October during a field trip to the Insulator Ranch. Scafe is inviting the public to check out his collection this weekend as part of his annual insulator show. Herald file photo
Friends & Neighbours Please bring them in to:
The Merritt Herald is looking for COMMUNITY-SUBMITTED STORIES about your Friends & Neighbours.
MERRITT HERALD Ph: 250.378.4241 Fax: 250.378.6818 reporter@merrittherald.com www.merrittherald.com 2090 Granite Avenue, P.O. Box 9, Merritt, B.C.
“It doesn’t look good,” Nicola Valley Teachers’ Union president Terry Scheitel says of the bargaining or lack of it regarding a British Columbian teachers’ contract. Scheitel spent the past week holding meetings with area teachers explaining the union’s position at the bargaining table and possibility of a strike vote, to be held on Oct. 9 and 10 if the lack of bargaining continues. “The meetings were very well attended,” Scheitel says. “I can safely say the vast majority of teachers will be on side in the event of a strike vote. “They are confident that our salary demands are not out of line, contrary to what’s been reported.” Whether a strike vote will be held might be known as early as Thursday.
4 • TUESDAY, September 2, 2014
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NOTICE SPRAY PARK RESURFACING The City of Merritt’s Spray Park located at Rotary park, will be unavailable from Sept. 15 - 17 in order to complete the spray pad resurfacing project.
BC Transit shares success with city
Collectively, in 2013/14, BC Transit systems continued to outperform equivalent systems in Canada. Despite being a year of continued fiscal constraints, ridership and revenue across the province increased and customer satisfaction scores reached a record high. The cost efficiencies attributed to the BC Transit shared services model allowed our systems to benchmark well below national averages while benefiting from reduced overall operational risks. Highlights of the savings generated through the shared services model include discounts of 10 to 11 per cent on vehicle acquisitions and savings of over $2 million through the fuel
JOB POSTING: Building/Plumbing Inspector
For complete details, visit City of Merritt website at www.merritt.ca Detailed resumes attached with a cover letter will be accepted until 4:00 p.m., Friday, October 03, 2014 and should be addressed to: Carole Fraser, Human Resources Manager City of Merritt PO Box 189, 2185 Voght Street Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Or by email: cfraser@merritt.ca
23 communities and developed vendor management guidelines to assist local governments increase sales of fare products. Staff also investigated options to extract additional utility from existing transit
assets. To date, BC Transit has capitalized on two opportunities that resulted in generating additional revenue to help make transit more sustainable for local government partners.
HELP KEEP MERRITT’S BOULEVARDS AND LANES CLEAN We all want Merritt and the neighborhoods we call home to look the best as possible. A frequent question to the City’s Bylaw Department is “Who is responsible for maintenance of boulevards and lanes?” The short answer is the adjacent property owner. Just as with winter snow, the adjacent property owner is responsible for shoveling the sidewalk in front of their home, so during the rest of the year the adjacent property owner is responsible for keeping the boulevard and lane abutting their property neat and tidy. We may even want to consider helping some of our neighbours who may be less capable. With this in mind Merritt’s Nuisance Abatement Bylaw provides for minimum property standards within City limits. This Bylaw requires property owners to also maintain lanes and boulevards. We all need to do our part to maintain our neighbourhoods. One of the pleasures of living in a smaller community like ours is that the little extra that we contribute makes a huge difference that will positively reflect on the City of Merritt as somewhere great to live.
Temporary Road Closure there will be a temporary road closure on September 09, 2014 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Houston Street between Coldwater Avenue & Jackson Avenue for traffic control training Jackson Avenue CLOSURE AREA
Coldwater Avenue
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Next council meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014 Council agendas and minutes at www.merritt.ca
Only the spray park will be inaccessible during this time. The rest of Rotary Park will still be available for the enjoyment of the local community and visitors alike. Please note that the resurfacing project dates may be subject to change as the project is weather dependent. For more information please contact: Larry Plotnikoff Leisure Services Manager 250-378-8618 lplotnikoff@merritt.ca
YOU ARE INVITED!
✁
Applications are invited for the position of Part Time Building/Plumbing Inspector for the Planning & Development Services Department in the City of Merritt.
vation, BC Transit welcomed its first fleet of compressed natural gas-fuelled heavy-duty buses, with 25 entering service in the Regional District of Nanaimo in March 2014. In the mid-size bus segment, 15 medium-duty Vicinity buses underwent their first year of trials in six communities across the province. Furthermore, March 31, 2014 marked the completion of the fiveyear hydrogen fuel cell demonstration project in the Resort Municipality of Whistler. This was the world’s largest fleet of hydrogen buses in one location and the fleet accumulated more than four million kilometres and avoided more than 5,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases. The Canadian Urban Transit Association recently recognized this project for leadership in innovation and collaboration. To ensure revenue from every source was being maximized, BC Transit conducted fare policy reviews in
Houston St.
BC Transit year in review
purchase program. For the year-end, operating costs were below budget and operating revenues were above budget. Throughout the year, BC Transit staff worked with local government partners in over 40 communities to implement changes aimed at improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the services being delivered. A key initiative in this regard includes the revised custom transit registration process. This pilot project was launched in two communities: Comox Valley Regional District and the City of Vernon in February 2014. This revised process of incorporating a combination of in-person and telephone mobility assessments is representative of best practices and is aimed to ensure that handyDART resources are focussed on the customers who require this specialized service. We will be sharing the results of the pilot project next years as we contemplate further roll-out. In terms of inno-
✁
The following is an excerpt from the committee of the whole meeting agenda from Aug. 26, 2014.
The resurfacing project will entail base preparation and applying a rubber product over the entire surface. The rubber product is made from 100% recycled BC tire rubber. This will result in a much more resilient, softer and slip-proof surface. This is a 2014 Capital Budget Project.
Please join us for an open house to review the City’s proposed new Zoning Bylaw. Where and When: Date: Tuesday, September 16th, 2014 Location: City Hall Time: 3.30pm – 6.00pm What is a Zoning Bylaw? • The Zoning Bylaw contains regulations for land use, size, height, density and location of buildings on properties, as well as parking requirements. • The Zoning Bylaw also includes maps that clearly identify “zones” to facilitate land use management and protect the community from conflicting land uses. • Zoning Bylaws help planners, developers, real estate agents and members of the public make informed decisions about where and what to build in Merritt. Why are we re-writing the Zoning Bylaw? • The City of Merritt has a new Official Community Plan (OCP) that provides the vision and guidance for the Zoning Bylaw. • The current Zoning Bylaw was written 10 years ago and needs refreshed relevance. Next Steps • Complete Community Open House. • Final review and update to the draft Zoning Bylaw. • Adopt new City of Merritt Zoning Bylaw. For more information See the City of Merritt’s website at www.merritt.ca
Water Conservation
WILL BE IN EFFECT MAY 1 - SEPTEMBER 30 WATERING IS ONLY PERMITTED during the following times:
Basic Sprinklers
Automatic Sprinklers
6 am - 8 am & 7 pm - 10 pm EVEN ADDRESS: Monday, Wednesday & Friday ODD ADDRESS: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday Midnight am to 4 am EVEN ADDRESS: Monday, Wednesday & Friday ODD ADDRESS: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday THERE IS NO SPRINKLING ALLOWED ON SUNDAY Violations will result in a $50 fine.
Hand watering of plants using a hand held hose with a working springloaded shut-off nozzle or a hand held container is permitted anytime. Please clip-out and keep on your refrigerator to remind of regulations!
City of Merritt H 2185 Voght Street, Box 189 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 H Phone: 250-378-4224
TUESDAY, September 2, 2014 • 5
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ROLLOVER ON 97C This car travelling south from Logan Lake on Highway 97C about 10 kilometres north of Merritt rolled over and landed on its roof last Tuesday afternoon. The crash occurred when the driver hit the right shoulder, slid in the gravel and spun across the highway before hitting the ditch on the left side, overcorrecting and rolling the vehicle. The driver, who was the lone occupant of the car, was taken to the Nicola Valley Hospital with minor injuries and is OK, Merritt RCMP Sgt. Norm Flemming told the Herald. Flemming said no other vehicle was involved in the crash. The driver was charged with failing to keep right. Photo courtesy of Julie Van Koll
Wildfire season will rank among B.C.’s worst By Jeff Nagel
black press jnagel@blackpress.ca
This summer’s wildfire season will go down as one of the most destructive on record in B.C. As of Thursday, fires had burned up more than 330,000 hectares across the province and are expected to soon surpass the 337,000 hectares destroyed in the 2010 fire season. This year is still far short of 1958, when 856,000 hectares burned, but 2014 could move into fifth place if it surpasses 1950’s 343,339 hectares, or even third if it tops the 351,000 lost in 1971. While much timber has burned, no homes or other significant structures have been lost this year, so by that measure it’s been nowhere near as catastrophic as the 2003 fire season, when more than 300 homes were lost or damaged in the Okanagan Mountain and McClure fires. But it has been costly. The province has so far spent more than $246 million fighting wildfires, almost four times what was budgeted, and more than the $212 million expended in 2010. Despite wet weather on the Labour Day weekend, fire officials are bracing for more warm dry spells in September. “It’s unlikely we’ve seen the end of the fire season by any stretch of the imagination,” fire information officer Dustin Eno said.
The actual number of fires this year – just over 1,300 – is well below the average of 1,600 a year. But many of the fires have been very large. The biggest, and still only 20 per cent contained, is the 130,000hectare Chelaslie River fire, which is between Anahim Lake and Burns Lake, near Entiako and Tweedsmuir provincial parks. Homes remain under evacuation order there. The largest evacuations this summer have included the China Nose fire near Houston and the McAllister fire, which
forced the evacuation of the entire town of Hudson’s Hope in July. Assisting B.C. crews have been large numbers of imported firefighters and equipment, from other provinces, Alaska and Australia. “We’ve brought in a lot and have been very grateful to be able to draw on those relationships, both right across Canada and internationally,” Eno said. “Last year we exported a lot of firefighters to fight in other jurisdictions and this year they were able to return that favour.” There are still 152
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6 • TUESDAY, September 2, 2014
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HERALD OPINION editorial
Neighbours who make a difference By Dan Albas
VIEW FROM THE HILL dan.albas@parl.gc.car@blackpress.ca
For those of you who follow my reports, you may recall a previous incident I reported on that involved a dance instructor located in Merritt who was in Canada working under the temporary foreign worker program. Unfortunately, due to what can be described as a series of administrative errors and the slow-turning wheels of bureaucracy, the instructor was required to leave Canada for a period of time before the situation could be resolved. As I also mentioned in that same report, the temporary foreign worker program is not an immigration program, meaning that there are fewer avenues available to address challenges such as these when they occur. I am happy to report that after a rather significant amount of effort across the board, this dance instructor has again returned to Canada and hopefully in the near future will resume providing dance lessons to children in the Nicola Valley. Throughout this process one of the challenges that I observed is the requirement for government to ensure that all terms and conditions of a program are in compliance. Part of the compliance process requires producing many documents that verify information that has been requested. This, of course, can be frustrating for all involved, not to mention time-consuming and at times it can be easy to overlook why such a thorough verification process is established.
See ‘Best practices’ Page 7
Publisher Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com
Are we doomed to repeat history? Emily Wessel Merritt MUSINGS Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it, wrote Spanish philosopher George Santayana in his book The Life of Reason: Reason in Common Sense. (Note: if you’re looking for a light read to finish
Production Dan Swedberg production2@ merrittherald.com
Advertising Sales Katie Ottenbreit sales2@ merrittherald.com
MERRITT HERALD 2090 G
off your summer, that’s not it.) The phrase has been used throughout the decades since Santayana’s death in 1952 as something of a warning against repeating mistakes. In the hamster wheel of life, are we spinning, or are we stationary? And does it even matter if we’re spinning frantically if the hamster wheel of life is stationary itself? When I comb back through the archives of the Merritt Herald, I see instances of the idea that history repeats itself, but I’m not convinced it’s always a terrible thing
that will doom humanity. While there have been horrible things in history, there have been plenty of good things as well. Why are we always “doomed” to repeat history? While I’m perusing the archives for a month’s worth of content for that Remember When? column (Tuesdays, page 3), I am inclined to think the big stories have a magical way of popping up over and over again. Of course things do change and do progress — at least I hope. Please note that I’m being facetious when I refer to life as a futile, dead-end jour-
Editor Emily Wessel newsroom@ merrittherald.com
ranite Ave., PO Box 9, Merritt, B.C. Phone (250) 378-4241
Reporter Michael Potestio reporter@ merrittherald.com
ney in a hamster wheel. But if you look for patterns, you can find them everywhere. For a good example, check out the Remember When? in today’s paper. If you don’t want any more ink on your fingers, I’ll save you the flipping of pages: it’s about teachers across the province mulling a strike vote, and it’s from 13 years ago. Now, labour disputes aren’t that uncommon as contracts have to be re-negotiated after a few years anyway. So it’s a coincidence, but it’s not unbelievable. Still, I can flip back to the corresponding month
Sports writer Ian Webster sports@ merrittherald.com
to whichever one we’re in, in any random year in the archives and find disturbingly similar headlines or stories to what we are writing about today. Some stories occur every year, such as Drivers have trouble with slippery highways, which originally ran in the January 1997 publication and was re-run as a Remember When? in January of this year. The December 1986 story Local talents headline Xmas concert that we re-ran as a Remember When in December 2013 is another.
See ‘Patterns’ Page 8
Office manager Ken Couture classifieds@ merrittherald.com
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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
TUESDAY, September 2, 2014 • 7
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YOUR OPINION Best practices for temporary foreign worker program a win-win
Speak up You can comment on any story you read @ merrittherald.com
?
‘‘
HERALD QUESTION OF THE WEEK
‘I believe it is also important to recognize that it was the good nature of kind-hearted neighbours who became aware of this issue and took action on it.’
To vote, go online to merrittherald.com
— Mp dan albas
From Page 6 Over the course of this summer, another situation arose in a different community involving temporary foreign workers, although this time in a different program related to seasonal agricultural workers. As is often a limitation in these situations, there is not a significant amount of information that can be shared. However, what can be passed on is that two seasonal agricultural workers found themselves in an unacceptable and deplorable situation. In this case, an intervention occurred and fortunately these workers are no longer in a perilous situation. However, I believe it is also important to recognize that it was the good nature of kindhearted neighbours who became aware of this issue and took action on it. Whenever these situations occur, it is important for elected officials to review the circumstances and related policy to try and ensure that a similar situation does not occur again in the future. I have heard of the importance to our agriculture sector from a number of small- and medium-sized farm operations and other businesses that rely heavily on this program to remain viable and competitive.
It is also imperative that we not overlook the importance for government programs to provide transparency so that members of the public can support a process with confidence. No citizen or government should tolerate these kinds of abuse whether they occur locally or are more widespread. The industry itself must also recognize that it is in its own best interest to continue to encourage best practices and not just compliance. In other words, a balance must be created that is workable for farmers and for seasonal agricultural workers that will retain broad public support. This is an area I believe is deserving of more attention and I would like to welcome your comments on this or any other subject before the House of Commons. Before I close this report I would like to sincerely recognize the efforts by local citizens, who, in spite of language barriers, came together to help two individuals who were truly in need. This act of kindness made a difference and will not be forgotten by the individuals involved. I can be reached at dan.albas@parl.gc.ca or toll free at 1-800665-8711. Dan Albas is the member of Parliament for Okanagan-Coquihalla.
THROWING THE ROPE Bryce Garcia throws a rope over a hay calf at Spirit Square on Friday afternoon during family entertainer Mat Duffus’ performance. Garcia was practising for his events at the Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo on the weekend, while Duffus prepared to entertain the Nicola Valley Fall Fair crowd on Saturday. Emily Wessel/Herald
Getting to know annuities
DAVID L. BROWN Managing YOUR MONEY You are nearing or already into retirement and you want to maintain a secure income stream, pass a steady income to your spouse, or gradually transfer an inheritance to your grandchildren. One of the investment options available to look at is an annuity. Here’s why: An annuity is a financial product that pays you a regular income for a fixed period or the rest of your life. They are often used for transforming a lump sum of money into a dependable income stream. Annuities are available in a variety of types: Single life annuities provide a guaranteed income for as long as you live, helping to ensure you will not outlive your money. In addition, you can elect a guaranteed period to allow payments to continue to your beneficiary at your death. Joint and survivor life annuities cover the lives of
two individuals and payments are made as long as either you or your joint annuitant lives. Indexed annuities are also available whereby the income can be increased periodically, either on a fixed or variable basis, to adjust for factors such as inflation or market performance. Term certain annuities provide guaranteed payments for a specified period of your choosing. If you die before the contract ends, payments will continue to your designated beneficiary for the remaining specified period. Payout or cashable annuities, unlike all other types of annuities, allow the flexibility to redeem lump sums during the lifetime of the income. So if you need a larger amount of money than your regular payment provides – for whatever reason – it will be available to you. Insured annuities can provide you with a tax-advantaged solution allowing you to draw income in retirement while still preserving your capital to be paid to your beneficiaries at your death. Annuities purchased with non-registered funds can be issued with a ‘prescribed tax status’ that provides a tax deferral by averaging out and deferring taxable interest earned over the expected life of the annuity. Depending on your situation, this can be an effective way to receive
income from your portfolio tax-efficiently and may be more attractive than earning the income as interest from a term deposit. With the exception of payout or cashable annuities, once you commit to annuity terms, you can’t change the plan. However, there are many ways to structure an annuity to gain the most benefit for you. Find out how an annuity and the various options might fit into your retirement portfolio by talking to your professional advisor. Written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm), and Investors Group Securities Inc. (in Québec, a firm in Financial Planning) as a general source of information only. Not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell specific investments, or to provide tax, legal or investment advice. Seek advice on your specific circumstances from your own advisor or an 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 250-315-0241 or at david.brown@investorsgroup.com to book your appointment.
Have you been involved in an accident on a B.C. highway?
PREVIOUS QUESTION Are you heading to the Fall Fair and Pro Rodeo this weekend? YES: 67% NO: 33%
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.
8 • TUESDAY, September 2, 2014
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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS
Patterns are everywhere you want to see them From Page 6 In June of 1978, the Herald ran a story about the redistribution of the federal riding boundaries of Yale-Lillooet. I grabbed a portion of that story for a June 2014 Remember When, and that topic was actually the subject of a story in an August paper from last year. There was also a story about the post office cutting back from six days a week to five in the June of 1978 story Five-day week for post office. Now, obviously, we’re facing different challenges with our post office. In March 1978, Merritt’s city council was handed two applications for new pubs in Diamond Vale. Fast forward to this year, and it’s two new hotels on the docket — although they’re in different and early stages of development. History repeating itself is not exactly a signal that there’s been no progress; on the contrary, it can be a rather positive way of preserving traditions. Thursday’s special wrap on the Nicola Valley Fall Fair and Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo pays tribute to two traditions that have stood the test of time. A story from the Herald on the first ever Nicola Valley Fall Fair in 1910 describes tables covered in wellexecuted agricultural wares in the realm of the “domestic sciences” (my new favourite phrase) — and that’s still the bread and butter of the fall fair. Sometimes these repeats remind us of the things that started it all. Then there are the strange stories, the one-offs, the outliers, which don’t pop up again and again — such as the sensationalist February 1983 story Suitcase bomb dismantled. Sometimes it’s just fun to see what’s
changed, what’s stayed the same, and how our solutions to similar
problems change over the years. The road we were
on then and the one we’re on now have all kinds of twists and
turns, but they seem to ultimately run parallel. At least, that’s how
it feels when the stories of the past come up again in the pres-
ent. Doomed if we do, doomed if we don’t.
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HERALD SPORTS
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Have a sports story tip? Tell us about it by calling 250-378-4241 or emailing sports@merrittherald.com
Young BMX racers making their mark By Ian Webster THE HERALD
sports@merrittherald.com
The sport of BMX racing is enjoying a resurgence in the Nicola Valley — thanks in no small part to the success of a quartet of young pedal-pounders. Merritt’s Luke Sowpal, Blake Klassen and brothers Corbin and Jaxsin Vaughan are all heavily into the sport that had its birth in California in the late ’70s and was officially introduced as an Olympic event in 2008. The four boys recently returned from the Northern Lights BMX Nationals in Prince George, where they were competing with over 1,000 other racers from as far away as Ontario, Arizona and California. The Merritt foursome did extremely well in PG, with each racer picking up multiple topthree finishes in their respective age groups and divisions. Sowpal, the veteran of the group at age seven, picked up three second-place awards in the expert class. “He’s had a love of bikes right from the getgo,” Luke’s father, Mike, said. “He was off training wheels at the age of two.” The young Sowpal began actual BMX racing at the tender age of four. “He had seen pictures of me when I raced and kept bugging me to take him to the track,” Luke’s dad said. “When he saw the kids with number plates on their bikes, he immediately wanted to get one for his bike and begin racing. “We went and tried once, and once very quickly turned into three to four times a week.” Sowpal joined the Kamloops BMX club a couple of years ago and has never looked back. The sport has
taken him all over B.C., into Washington and Oregon, and even as far as Vegas and Reno. Next up for Sowpal will be a major competition in Richland, Wash. on the Sept. 14 weekend, followed by the Canadian Grand Nationals in Chilliwack at Thanksgiving. “Luke is currently ranked number two in Canada,” his dad said. It was Sowpal’s participation in BMX racing that brought the Vaughan twins on board. Their dads have been friends since elementary school. “We went to see Luke race once when we were down at the Coast, and both boys immediately wanted to get involved,” said the brothers’ mom, Chelsea. This is the Vaughans’ second season in the sport. They’ve enjoyed considerable success in a short period of time. Both have attained expert status already, and are amongst the best in their eight-yearold age class. In Prince George, Jaxsin and Corbin finished one-two in Friday’s opening race. Saturday and Sunday, Corbin finished second and Jaxsin third each time. The only racer to beat them was Kaden ‘Bam Bam’ Lewis from Kingman, Arizona. “The boys are getting more and more interested in the sport,” their mom said. “They’re having to work hard to get their placings. They like the challenge.” The Vaughans were in Reno on this Labour Day weekend, racing at a big USA BMX Nationals. The results were not available prior to press time. “The competition down there is really tough,” Vaughan said the day before their departure. “Often there are 30 or more in a class, and the racers have to do heats, quarters, semis
The rebirth of BMX
RACE READY Merritt BMX racers (above, from left) Luke Sowpal, Blake Klassen, Corbin Vaughan and Jaxsin Vaughan display their trophy hardware from a successful weekend of racing in Prince George recently. (Top) Jaxsin Vaughan gets some air off a jump during a race. (Below from left) Blake Klassen, Corbin Vaughan and Luke Sowpal. Photos submitted and courtesy of Lee Cejalvo and Justin Terwiel Photography
and finals.” Vaughan said that her boys like meeting all the kids from other places as much as they love the racing. Both Vaughan boys are sponsored by Canadian Bike Supply out of Abbotsford. Klassen, 8, is the relative rookie of the group, having begun BMX racing halfway through last year. “He got started because of the Vaughan
boys,” Blake’s mom, Vicki, said. “They’re our neighbours. “It’s been great. Blake is a lot like his dad (Grant). He loves anything on two wheels.” Competing in the intermediate division for his age in Prince George, Klassen picked up three third-place finishes. “I like the sport a lot,” Blake’s mom said. “It’s simple and straight forward. You compete in single-age categories,
and move up as soon as you change your age. Also, if you win a lot, you move up in class — from novice to intermediate to expert.” Blake’s mom also likes the fact that BMX is an individual sport which allows her son to just “do his own thing.” All four Merritt boys are currently members of the Kamloops BMX club. Up until this year, the club’s track had been at MacArthur Island,
Ever since BMX racing was introduced at the 2008 Olympics, the sport has enjoyed a surge in worldwide popularity. It’s not the first time, however. BMX, which stands for bicycle motocross, began in the early 1970s in Southern California. Kids too young to ride motorbikes would emulate their heroes by racing their pedal-driven twowheelers off-road. The sport caught on like wildfire, and rapidly spread across America and to nations around the globe. By the mid 70s, BMX achieved critical mass, and manufacturers began creating bicycles designed specifically for the sport. A start-up organization, the National Bicycle League (NBL), soon morphed into the
but the association is currently in the process of building a new facillity on the North Shore. “It’s meant a lot more travelling for all of us this summer,” Luke’s dad said. “On weekdays we’ve been regularly going over to Vernon and Kelowna for their race nights and to practice.” In a few weeks time, the BMX season will begin to wind down. Sowpal and the
International BMX Federation. The first world championships were held in 1982. In the late ’80s, the popularity of BMX plummeted. The reasons for the drop in interest are varied, but some speculate it was the rise of many other so-called extreme sports such as rollerblading and skateboarding that simply spread out the population of young and notso-young thrill-seekers. BMX proved to be resilient, however, and a steady resurgence began in the mid ’90s and has continued into the new millenium. BMX’s debut as an Olympic sport in Beijing sealed the sport’s legitimacy, and today thousands of youngsters worldwide are jumping on board once more.
Vaughan twins are all enthusiastic hockey players, and the Sowpals like to ski as a family on most weekends. Klassen is an avid soccer player who moves indoors during the fall and winter months. You can bet, however, that when the snows melt in the spring and the tracks open, these four young lads will be more than ready to hop on their bikes and go racing again.
10 • TUESDAY, September 2, 2014
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Ale McKnight McKnight gh ht passed p a away on August 21, 2014 a after a short stay at the Gilli H G Gillis House. H He was 79 79. Ale was born in Merritt on December 26, 1934, the youngest and last surviving sibling of 10 children. Ale lived most of his life in the Merritt area. His passion was animals, especially horses, and he was a long standing member of the World Wildlife Federation. In the evenings, his beloved cat was often curled asleep on his lap. Most of his life was dedicated to ranching. Ale also enjoyed working with leather, making saddles and other leather products. Ale leaves behind several nieces and nephews and many friends, especially in the Merritt area. All are invited to attend a graveside service at the City of Merritt Pine Ridge Cemetery on Friday September 5, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Jane Gingrich of the Hills of Peace Lutheran church will ofciate.
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MENTORING COORDINATOR We are seeking a dynamic Mentoring Coordinator, who will promote and facilitate our youth mentoring programs in Merritt. This is a part-time position with a starting wage of $17.50 hourly and a typical work week of 25 hours. The successful candidate will have a postsecondary diploma or degree in the Human or Social Services eld, and ideally have experience in coordinating social services or youth programs. For a full job description, please visit:
www.bbbskamloops.ca/en/Home/aboutus/ careers.aspx We thank all applicants, but only those selected for an interview will be notied. Please submit your cover letter and resume by Monday September 8, 2014 to:
Ian Gerbrandt, Executive Director Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kamloops & Region 821 Seymour Street Kamloops BC V2C 2H6. Email: ian.gerbrandt@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca Fax: 250-374-4930
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
LOST at Helmer Lake on July 22, grey/brown plastic tote with dark lid. Reward offered. Call Dwight at 250-295-3787
Employment
Help Wanted Journey’s Into Tomorrow Transition House
MEET SINGLES right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now: 1-800-712-9851
RV OWNERS, winter vacation in Arizona. $999.99 three month rental special, large RV lots, activities, entertainment, Pet Friendly. 480-363-2087, vds@robertsresorts.com
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Career Opportunities EXPERIENCE IS an asset We offer free recruitment services for people aged 45 and over across Canada. Register now at: www.thirdquarter.ca or call toll-free: 1-855-286-0306.
Education/Trade Schools FOODSAFE COURSE by Certified Instructor September 4th 8:30am-3:00pm at Fireside Centre 2026 Granite Ave, Merritt $70 Pre-register by phoning 250-554-9762
Position Qualications and Requirements: • College Certicate in the Social Services discipline or two years’ experience In the Social Services Sector • Crisis and Suicide Intervention/Prevention • Food safe, Level 1 First Aide • Effective and respectful interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work cooperatively with colleagues • Reliable and self motivated • Maintains professional standards of practice including ethical boundaries and protecting the condentiality of the House, families and colleagues • Reliable vehicle and valid BC Driver’s License • Complies with the Criminal Records Review Act Employment type: On call casual Start date: Immediately Wage: Dependent on qualications and previous experience. Please fax or email resumes to the attention of Sharon Collins, Program Director, Journey’s Into Tomorrow Transition House Fax # 250-378-6172 Email journeys@live.ca Only selected interviews
applicants
will
be
contacted
for
JOB POSTING LOWER NICOLA INDIAN BAND POSITION: HOT LUNCH COOK Description: Reporting to the Principal, the Hot Lunch Cook is responsible to cook a hot lunch program for the students attending the School. Duties Include: r Cook Hot Lunch for approximately 75 students, twice per week r Lunch is to be served at 12 noon r Serve lunch to students r Clean up includes washing dishes and put away food afterwards r Shopping for groceries Requirements: r A Valid Driver’s license and reliable vehicle r Must pass a criminal records check r Must have their Food Safe Certificate Salary: $15.00/hour Deadline: September 5, 2014 Start Date: ASAP
Applicants are required to submit a resume with cover letter and 3 references to: Angie Sterling, Principal Lower Nicola Band School 201 Horn Road Merritt, BC V1K-1M9 Fax 250-378-6389 e-mail: asterling@lnib.net The Lower Nicola Indian Band thanks all those who apply; however, only qualified candidates will be considered for an interview.
TUESDAY, September 2, 2014 • 11
www.merrittherald.com
JOB OPPORTUNITY TRAFFIC CONTROL PERSON Merritt, BC AEL Trafc Control is seeking applications for Trafc Control Persons in the Merritt Area. Applicants must meet the following qualications and conditions: • Current Flagging Certicate • Valid BC Driver’s License and positive driving record • Reliable and exible, as the nature of the work is on call (24/7) • Physically t and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions • Safety footwear is required Applicants must provide details of qualications and experience, as well as a photocopy of agging certicate, driver’s license and current drivers abstract. Candidates are subject to pre-employment drug testing. Please send your application to: Mike Davidson Trafc Control Supervisor 103-1121 McFarlane Way Merritt, BC V1K 1B9 Fax: (250) 378-4209 Email: mike.davidson@hmcservices.ca AEL will also be having a 2 day Trafc Control Course Sept. 8th and 9th. $320.00 GST included. For more information email Mike Davidson or call 250-378-4206 EXT 101
Coldwater Indian Band
Box 4600 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Ph: 250-378-6174 • Fx: 250-378-5351
FINANCE COORDINATOR The Coldwater Indian Band has an up and coming exciting and challenging opportunity for a full time Finance Coordinator position. This individual reports to the Coldwater Indian Band Administrator. The Finance Coordinator is responsible for assisting in the overall management and reporting of the nancial affairs of the Coldwater Indian Band, managing the day-to-day accounting affairs, and assisting in the development and administration of accounting policies and procedures. Specic Duties and Responsibilities • Human Resource Management – Supervises and evaluates the performance of all employees in the Finance Department, etc. • Financial Management – Administers the nancial affairs of the band in accordance with the band nance policy, etc. • Financial Accounting System – Manages day to day accounting affairs of the band (payroll/ AR/AP/GA/SPA/statutory and regulatory disbursements and reconciliations, etc. • Audit – Coordinates the preparation for year – end audit, etc. • Reporting – Completes data reports and analysis for the band, etc. • General Administration – provides backup for PR and band programs in posting and disbursements, as required, etc. Education/Qualications • Prefer Post Secondary Degree in relevant eld such as Business Administration, Financial Administration, or equivalent combination of education and experience working for a First Nations organization or working towards an accounting designation • Or six to eight (6-8)years related experience with two (2) years at a management or supervisory level • Experience in all related areas of Accounting (A/P, A/R, payroll, nancial management, budgeting, nancial reporting) • Prefer experience with First Nations Organizations • Extensive working knowledge of fund accounting • Drivers License and own transportation • Bondable
Employment
Employment
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Do to retirement we are looking for a TRUCK DRIVER to deliver Vancouver Sun and Province Newspapers. 4 days a week Wed. - Sat. and other days as required. Must be able to drive 1 Ton & 4 Ton Truck. Driver to haul from Merritt - Kelowna - Sicamous return via Hwy. #1. Takes Roughly 10 hrs., Leaving around midnight. Truck will be provided Pay $170/per day plus benets. Please fax resume, attention: Dale to 250-457-9736 or phone 250-457-9678
N.V.C.L. VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT Production Workers: $14-20/hr. Steady employment with overtime available. Please submit resume in person to 1195 Houston Street, Merritt B.C. 250-378-6161
Employment
Services
Real Estate
Trades, Technical
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Houses For Sale
EDMONTON BASED Company seeks qualified & experienced Buncher, Skidder Operator & Processor Operator. Fort McMurray, camp work, 21/7 rotation, flight in/out provided, safety tickets and drivers abstract required. Fax 780488-3002; or email resume to: jobs@commandequipment.com EDMONTON BASED Company seeks qualified & experienced Mulcher Operators. Seasonal work in Fort McMurray and area. Camp work. Safety tickets and drivers abstract required. Work to commence the last week of September approximately. Fax 780-488-3002; or email: jobs@commandequipment.com
Services
TAX FREE MONEY is available, if you are a homeowner, today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income. Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca •
24/7 • anonymous • confidential • in your language
YOUTH AGAINST VIOLENCE LINE
1-800-680-4264
Home and Land Packages Springbank Ave, Merritt
Completely Serviced City Services Turn Key STARTING FROM
$249,900.00 Call 250-573-2278
info@youthagainstviolence.com
Financial Services
Stand up. Be heard. Get help.
Toll Free 1-866-573-1288
ARE YOU $10K or more in debt? DebtGo can help reduce a significant portion of your debt load. Call now and see if you qualify. 1-800-351-1783
Home Improvements
7510 Dallas Drive, Kamloops www.eaglehomes.ca
GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161.
FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928
Merchandise for Sale
Appliances New Washer/Dryer Set. Bought Last Nov. Barely Used.Have to move by Aug 31. (250)256-9104
Misc. for Sale A- STEEL SHIPPING DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS Used 20’40’45’ 53’ and insulated containers all sizes in stock. SPECIAL Trades are welcome. 40’ Containers under $2500! DMG 40’ containers under $2,000 each. Also JD 544 &644 wheel Loaders Wanted to buy 300 size hydraulic excavator Ph Toll free 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com KILL BED bugs & their eggs! Buy Harris bed bug killer complete treatment program or kit. Available: Hardware Stores, buy online: homedepot.com
Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent One bdrm apartment for one adult only. N/S, N/P, heat & cable incl. $525/mon. Ref’s. 250-378-2954
Duplex / 4 Plex Large 2 Bdrm unit for Rent. F/S, W/D. No pets, No smokers. Sept.01. (250)378-8383
Homes for Rent 5 bdrm, 3 Full bath, Big garage, in a quiet new area. 250378-1997
Suites, Lower 2 bdrm basement suite. Avail. Sept 1st or immediately. W/d, fenced yrd, close to town. $750/mon. util. incl. 250-3786295 or 315-9397
Transportation
Auto Financing
KILL ROACHES! Buy Harris Roach Tablets. Eliminate bugs- guaranteed. No mess, odorless, long lasting. Available at Ace Hardware & The Home Depot. STEEL BUILDINGS/metal buildings 60% OFF! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206 or visit us online: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca.
Misc. Wanted Collector Buying Coin Collections, Native Art, Estates, Gold, Silver + 778-281-0030 FIREARMS. ALL types wanted, estates, collections, single items, military. We handle all paperwork and transportation. Licensed dealer. 1-866-9600045 www.dollars4guns.com.
Real Estate Houses For Sale 4 Bdrm, 2.5 Bath’s $260,000 includes GST or OBO (604)576-0338
Cars - Domestic
House For Sale 7bdrm, 4 washrooms, 2 car garage, 2 bedroom legal suite. Ast. value $360,000 selling for $280,000(604)576-0338
2005 GMC Jimmy, 5sp,air,1 owner, 190k km’s.$3,300 or OBO. (250)280-0982
Auto Financing
Auto Financing
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Please mail, fax or email your resume with references and cover letter that outlines why you are interested in this position and state your salary expectations: Attn: COLDWATER INDIAN BAND – H.R. COMMITTEE BOX 4600 MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 Fax: 250-378-5351 Email: cheryl@coldwaterband.org Deadline for cover letters and resume’s: September 12, 2014 at 4:00 pm. Only qualied individuals being considered will be contacted for an interview. No phone calls please.
Available 24/7 • mycreditmedic.ca
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IF YOU WORK,YOU DRIVE
Call Steve Today 1.855.740.4112 t murraygmmerritt.com
12 • TUESDAY, September 2, 2014
www.merrittherald.com
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4(% 349,)3( 3(/%3 PUBLIC BOWLING Starts Sept. 13~ Every weekend LEAGUE BOWLING Starts Sept. 15~ Ladies, Mixed & Seniors YOUTH BOWLING Starts Sept. 16~ Mondays after school
8 lanes of 5 pin FUN!
Merritt 0=E:7<5 13<B@3
250-378-5252 1][S O\R :Sb G]c` 4c\ =cb 3\bS`bWO\[S\b T]` bVS 3\bW`S 4O[WZg 250-936-8384 2076 Coutlee Avenue
â&#x20AC;˘ Fully Licensed â&#x20AC;˘ Air Conditio
ned â&#x20AC;˘ Automatic Scoring