Merritt Herald - January 28, 2014

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HANDS-ON SCIENCE LESSON PAGE 3

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KERO COMMITS TO HUSKIES PAGE 9

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MERRITT HERALD FREE

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2014 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS

WARMING UP On Thursday, the local children’s choir practiced several songs with singer-songwriter James Palmer at the Trinity United Church. Palmer and the choir would take the stage at the church the following night to perform the duets during Palmer’s concert. Emily Wessel/Herald

Dance school’s fate uncertain By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The fate of the local dance school hangs in the balance of a complicated immigration case. The Love to Dance Academy could be closed as early as this spring — but not if parents of the school’s students have their way. Lizette Nel, the dance school’s instructor, moved to Merritt with her husband Herman in 2012 from South Africa. Their daughter

and son-in-law reside here, which is how the Nels came to decide on Merritt. Lizette was due to start up the ballet school in the fall with the start of regular schools, but a large-scale investigation into other files that had nothing to do with theirs bumped their case back six months. The Nels fought to have their case moved up so they could get the school started on time, but it still ended up about three months

behind schedule. Lizette had previously received a Labour Market Opinion of $25 per hour to teach at the ballet school, but by the time the school was up and running, student enrolment did not justify that rate of pay. “By that time, some of the ballet students lost interest and some others went and looked for other schools in Kamloops so when we actually started, there were not enough children to justify a salary

for Lizette,” her husband, Herman Nel, explained. “So, Lizette said listen, I’m in this business for 40 years already, I know how ballet schools work. The money to me is not an issue; I’ll accept a lesser rate. Let’s forget about the money and focus on getting the ballet school back on track. “Now, that is the crime,” Herman said. When the couple went to renew their work permit, the wage discrepancy became an issue.

Because Lizette worked for $15 an hour rather than $25 an hour, Immigration Canada concluded she was being exploited, Herman said. Their work permit renewal application came back rejected. He said the lower wage was never an issue for Lizette, but rather a compromise so she could help the school recoup from its original delay.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

“We’re still hoping for a miracle to happen” “The immigration department does not accept this kind gesture from Lizette,” Herman, who handles the immigration procedures on her behalf, said. “They eventually went and phoned the Merritt Dance Society and accused them of worker exploitation. We all fell off our chairs,” he said. Herman said the idea that his wife was exploited as a worker coming from another country is not logical given her work history. Lizette’s extensive resume includes sitting on the board for the Royal Academy of Dance (an international organization), working as chairlady and adjudicator of Eisteddfod (a major dance festival), travelling all over the country to work as a ballet examiner, and lecturing on movement science at the University of Pretoria in South Africa, among many other positions related to ballet. “She’s just not exploitable,” Herman said. The Integrity Services Branch is investigating the Nels’ case while Immigration Canada handles the work permits. Herman said the couple submitted their paperwork and discussed the situation with investigators, explaining their motivations in accepting a lower wage than was originally planned. While Lizette’s wage seems to be the main issue for the immigration department, it has never been an issue for either him or his wife. Lizette’s dedication to the studio is driven by her passion, not the wage, he said. “It’s all above board here. Everybody’s happy, and we’re busy working on the school and the school is picking up,” he said. “Last year when we started, there were 20 students at this date.

Today there are 63 students, and we get two to three new registrations per day.” While the investigation was ongoing, their work permits expired. Herman said it’s frustrating being caught in the disconnect between the two branches of government, which cost them to forfeit their renewal fees and has incurred plenty of stress. He said the departments appear to be enforcing policies that don’t take into account the merit of their specific case. “We cannot get these departments to talk to each other and synchronize,” he said. On Jan. 10, immigration gave them 90 days to leave Canada. By Jan. 22, Lizette felt so defeated in the battle that she issued a notice of the situation and her resignation to members of the dance studio. The notice announced the closure of the studio

Lizette Nel. Herald file photo

and all dance programs in Merritt and Logan Lake, and the cancellation of new programs that were due to start up. “This hurts. This really hurts,” Herman said. However, parents of the Love to Dance

Academy’s students are rallying support for the Nels, circulating a petition to reverse the order to leave the country in 90 days. They are also sending letters to MLA Jackie Tegart and MP Dan Albas to catch the eye of government offi-

cials. As of Friday, the Herald had received four letters of support for the Nels, most of which were also sent to Tegart and Albas. There is a way the Nels could stay, Herman said: “If the dance society gives her the difference between $15 and $25 [an hour] in one go — that means a $12,000 cheque which doesn’t grow on a tree somewhere, then on top of that is about $5,000 in taxes and other fees.” He said the department wants to see proof of the cheque going through the society’s bank account, then into Lizette’s account so they know she received the money. It may be a lot of money to try to raise in a short time, but Herman said the support shown by people associated with the dance school is keeping them hopeful. “We love the people

here. For them to go to that extent to help save our situation is really commendable. It made us get hope and say maybe we can turn this thing around,” he said. “I sincerely hope it turns around.” Even students are planning some fund-

raisers, which came as a complete surprise, Herman said. As the situation continues to play out, the Nels are waiting and wishing for things to change. “We’re still hoping for a miracle to happen,” he said.

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INTERIOR TO LOWER MAINLAND TRANSMISSION PROJECT CONSTRUCTION UPDATE BC Hydro’s contractor for the Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Project will be burning slash piles on BC Hydro’s right-of-way between Merritt and Boston Bar this winter. This work is planned for January, weather dependent, and may continue as needed through to the end of March. The contractor has obtained the necessary permits and will comply with all regulations. A key requirement is that the contractor does not conduct burning unless the venting index is “good”. This ensures proper air movement exists to minimize smoke impacts to people in the vicinity of the burning. The 247 kilometre, 500 kilovolt transmission line currently under construction, will expand the capacity of the system that brings power to businesses and homes in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. For more information please visit bchydro.com/ilm or contact BC Hydro at stakeholderengagement@bchydro.com or at 604 623 4472, toll-free 1 866 647 3334.

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TUESDAY, January 28, 2014 • 3

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Students try hands-on science By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

Students from Grades 2 to 5 at Merritt Bench Elementary got an a very hands-on experience in biology last Wednesday. Last week, Grades 2 and 3 teacher James Clark’s class, along with Dawn Ellingsen’s Grade 4-5 class, dissected a male and female coho salmon as part of a program developed by School District 58 and the Spius Creek Fish Hatchery to learn about salmon. The salmon program is part of the two teachers’ science curricula, Clark said. “We have the few kids that turn white as a sheet and have to go sit down, but most of them are right in there like a dirty shirt,” Clark said. “They’re fascinated,” he said of his students’ participation in the dissection. “I’ll tell you, the dissection is the best part. They get right in there,” he said, noting that by the time the dissection is over, the

kids have fish blood on their hands and wrists. Through this dissection, the students learn about salmon anatomy in a way no text book can teach them. He said participants discuss similarities and differences of the fish anatomy with that of humans, and discuss and compare the life cycles of salmon, humans and plants. All the organs and body parts are discussed, and students identify them. The dissection is one of three main events of the program, which Clark has had his classes participate in for the past 10 years. In addition to dissecting salmon, the students also raise some in a fish tank. In late October, biologists from the Spius Creek Fish Hatchery visit the school, bringing a live male and female salmon with them. Students gather in the gymnasium and the female’s eggs are gently squeezed out and fertilized with the male’s milt.

Teacher James Clark and his students from Bench Elementary dissect salmon last Wednesday. Submitted

Students monitor the eggs, keeping an eye on the temperature of the water and its clarity. Clark has different students from each of the classes check on the eggs in the

fish tank each morning, and go through a checklist. Recently, the eggs hatched and they now have a tank full of alevin – the first stage of the salmon life cycle in which the alevin

feed off a yolk sac. Once the yolk sac disappears, the students are responsible for feeding the salmon and cleaning the tank. “That’s when it becomes a challenge, because then I’ve got

to start doing water changes every five days,” Clark said. In May, the students will release their fish into Spius Creek. They visit the Spius Creek Fish Hatchery for a tour, are shown a riparian model and are escorted to the river to release their salmon. Then they get to see a riparian display. A riparian zone is an area of land that links water to land, bordering on streams, lakes and wetlands. “It’s quite an educational program. I think the most important thing is it gives them an appreciation for the salmon in our area and the fact they are threatened and are disappearing,” Clark said. He said he thinks it makes his students more mindful of the environment and people’s role in keeping rivers and other bodies of water clean. Clark also said he thinks the kids develop a sense of care and ownership for the river and the salmon they’ve raised.

Ombudsperson office in Merritt for a day By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

Merrittonians who have complaints regarding a provincial or local government agency will soon have the opportunity to have their voices heard in person. On Feb. 3, representatives from the provincial Office of the Ombudsperson will be visiting Merritt for the day as part of a four-day tour to cities across

the B.C. Interior. The ombudsperson office is appointed by the legislative assembly and is independent of the government and political parties. The office investigates claims of people who feel they’ve been treated unfairly and have been unsuccessful in resolving issues with public agencies. “The jurisdiction of the Office of the Ombudsperson is provincial public

agencies,” ombudsperson Kim Carter said. “That’s ministries, boards and commissions like WorkSafeBC; Crown corporations like BC Hydro and ICBC; local government, colleges and universities; schools and school boards; health authorities and a handful of other public agencies.” Appointments with the ombudsperson are free of charge, but those who

wish to set up an in-person meeting in Merritt on Feb. 3 need to call ahead of time to determine if the complaint is valid and if it is under the office’s jurisdiction. The number to call to set an appointment in Merritt is 1-800-567-3247. In order to settle disputes, an investigator of the ombudsperson will propose a fair resolution to an authority and if it proves

unsuccessful, Carter may propose the resolution in a public report. “Our power is the power to get all the information and investigate the matter and if we feel that someone has not been treated fairly, then we will look independently and impartially – we’re not on anyone’s side – at trying to achieve a fair resolution,” Carter said.

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REMEMBER WHEN? From the Herald archives: January, 1997 Scotland trip on horizon for dancers Merritt’s Highland Dancers are closer to their dream of going to Scotland. After holding a fundraising Scottish poet Robbie Burns dinner for 120 Saturday night, they have approximately $800 to put towards their trip. But as delighted as organizers were with the third annual sold-out event, they said a lot more money still needs to be raised. “Airfare alone is about $1,100 per child and accommodations will be about $2,000 to $3,000 per child,” said Donna Lamont, a mother of three of the Merritt dancers. For a couple of years, the small group has been working diligently towards earning enough money to go to Scotland.

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PROVINCE

B.C. briefs: ICBC chair steps down tfletcher@blackpress.ca

Paul Taylor, former president of the Insurance Corporation of B.C., has resigned as chair of the ICBC board after a year and a half in that position. ICBC issued a brief statement saying Jatinder Rai, a member of the board of directors since 2008, has been appointed interim chair. A spokesman declined further comment on the reason for Taylor’s departure. “Mr. Taylor was appointed chair in July 2012 and his leadership has helped guide the corporation through challenging times, including the downsizing and restructuring of the company in late 2012,” the ICBC statement said. ICBC imposed a 4.9 per cent rate increase for basic vehicle insur-

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Hibernating bats infected with White Nose Syndrome. The fungus is not usually visible if bats are found dead. New York Dept. of Environmental Conservation

ance in November, citing increasing injury claims and higher payouts. That followed an 11 per cent increase in basic insurance rates in 2012. ICBC cut 260 positions in 2012 after an audit of its operations showed its management ranks had increased 41 per cent between 2007 and 2011. Taylor resigned as president of ICBC in May of 2008.

Watch for bats in winter B.C. environment ministry biologists are asking the public to watch and report bat sightings this winter as they try to track a disease that has killed millions of bats in eastern and central Canada and the U.S. White Nose Syndrome is a fungal disease that kills bats during their winter hibernation period.

It is believed to have been introduced to North America and to spread primarily through bat to bat contact. No cases have been reported in western North America so far. B.C. biologists are working to understand how to protect bats from the syndrome and how to help populations should the disease arrive. Provincial biologists are asking the public

Cases to be screened prior to meeting From Page 3 Carter also said the office’s services should be used as a last resort if people cannot work out a resolution with the organization they have an issue with. “When you think that there is nowhere else to go, then you can come to us,” Carter said. “The good news is there is somewhere [to go].” Carter said the reason the office doesn’t publicize its location when it’s visiting a city is to ensure it does not overbook appointments. This also ensures ombudsper-

sons can screen each complaint to know if complaints are legitimate and under the office’s jurisdiction. Complaints need not be resolved in person, however, and anyone who doesn’t get an in-person meeting can still file a complaint. The Office of the Ombudsperson also handles complaints via telephone and through its website. “Although people can send a web-based form in if they’ve got a complaint at any time or call us Monday to Friday [during] normal working hours

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and talk to one of our staff, I think it’s important that we go out and be even more accessible to people in different parts of the province,” Carter said. Being overcharged by BC Hydro is one example of the types of cases an ombudsperson deals with, Carter told the Herald. Carter said the office had a complaint of an overcharge from one individual, which the ombudsperson rectified. “But it turned out that there were over 500 other people who had been overcharged, and they all

got refunds as well,” Carter said, noting if one person comes forward with a problem, it could have an effect on others. The last time the ombudsperson visited Merritt was in 2006. “A couple times a year, I try to go out with two of the staff from the office to different communities across B.C. to open the ombudsperson office for the day in those communities,” Carter said. After Merritt, the ombudsperson will be in Penticton on Feb. 4, Vernon on Feb. 5 and Kelowna on Feb. 6.

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INTERIOR TO LOWER MAINLAND TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT Public Safety Notice – Winter recreationalists and snowmobilers Winter recreationalists and snowmobilers should be aware that construction of the Interior to Lower Mainland (ILM) Transmission Line continues. On-site activities include clearing of the right-of-way; construction of access roads and tower foundations; and tower assembly and erection. The ILM right-of-way continues to be a construction zone with restricted access. Restricted access is required for worker and public safety to avoid risks associated with such things as guy lines, partially constructed foundations, construction materials, or other potential hazards that may be hidden or partially hidden by the snow. Please avoid using the right-of-way for your activities. If you are in the area, use extra care when traveling around the right-of-way. The ILM project is a new 247 kilometre 500 kilovolt transmission line between Merritt and Coquitlam that will expand the electrical system so that BC Hydro can continue to deliver clean and reliable energy to homes and businesses in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. For more information on the project please visit: bchydro.com/ilm. If you have any questions, please contact BC Hydro Stakeholder Engagement: 1 866 647 3334 or 604 623 4472 or send an email to stakeholderengagement@bchydro.com.

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TUESDAY, January 28, 2014 • 5

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

New bus for Adult Day Centre hits streets By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The Nicola Valley Health Care Endowment Foundation donated a new bus to take clients who have acute, chronic, palliative or rehabilitative health-care needs on day trips in the Nicola Valley. The bus, worth $85,000, is shared by the Adult Day Centre and Gillis House recreation department. The ADC program picks clients up from their homes throughout the Nicola Valley

for outings on Tuesdays and Thursdays to provide caregivers and family members some respite. This bus replaces an older one, which program organizers feared would break down on an outing and would be difficult to replace with government funding. It has safety features the old one didn’t, and can accommodate up to five wheelchairs. The bus officially made it to the Berta Fraser Centre on Jan. From left: Nicola Valley Health Care Endowment Foundation director Margaret Karlson, recreation co-ordinator Candice Portelance, Gillis House administrator assistant Gem Crandlemire, ADC assistant Gail Blackwell, endowment foundation director Kathryn Olsen, ADC program director Elly Shea, and endow9 and hit the streets for its first ment foundation director Jerry Sanders. Emily Wessel/Herald outings last week.

New year a time for reflection, giving thanks JEANETTE MCMASTER In FRIENDSHIP New Year’s Day was a special time to share the foods that were gathered during the summer and fall, to celebrate the harvest of the past year and to thank our Creator for the abundance. Days before the celebrations were to take place, the men had their game ready: moose, deer and elk if the elk were available. Elk was like prime beef and whoever donated it was considered a good hunter. Clarence, my adopted brother, would have gone hunting just for a goose or two. This was another special food item for the people. I remember this one time he came home with three geese,

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so my dad asked him, Clarence my boy, what are we going to do with the extra goose? Clarence replied, we can give that one to a family that has no one to hunt for them. My dad said, good idea, it is honourable to care for the widow. Our neighbour offered the use of their home to hold the feast. Women would make pies, breads, and bring their canned goods such as peaches, huckleberries, wild saskatoons and chokecherry jelly to the host’s home, where everyone would gather to prepare the meal. I can still remember going to our neighbour’s. My dad, Billy, had our big old sleigh hitched up to the team of horses; Mom had loaded the sleigh with her donations; Clarence and Clement had their gifts too. Clarence and Clement were young men not yet married, so their gifts were offered to the host as a showing of their skills as hunters.

‘Gifts given at this time of year were a means of thanksgiving for the abundant harvest of the past year, so people shared their wealth.’

ator and His bountiful provision. As always in friendship.

you have gathered in the labours out of the field.� This was our way of honoring our Cre-

Jeanette McMaster is an elder and member of the Upper Nicola Band.

— HERALD COLUMNIST JEANETTE MCMASTER

I see the house as we approach. It is all lit up with coal oil lamps, which made the house look so warm and very welcoming. Lights from the house reflected on the snow outside and looked so pretty, almost like diamonds. Then I see the hostess, she opens the door to their home and makes us welcome. We bring our gifts of food, and sometimes a gift made by my Mom, Lizzette, which would be a tablecloth made from big flour sacks she had embroidered to make the cloth pretty. My dad’s gift would be a halter or martingale made of leather; nothing fancy, just useful. Gifts given at this

time of year were a means of thanksgiving for the abundant harvest of the past year, so the people shared their wealth. Wealth back then was not monetary, but what people had from their fields and gardens — which I am sure our non-native neighbours can attest to as they were of the same era. There would be a dance after the dinner. Alfred played the violin; Joe, my cousin, had the accordion, and another had a guitar. Exodus 23; 16: “The feast of harvest, the first fruits of your labours, of which you have sown in the field, the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when

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MENARD, NEIL For Councillor

• Honesty • Integrity • Accountability • Transparency • Communication to constituents • Represent the entire community • Healthy, Safe & Wellness of all employees If you have questions or concerns please call me at 250-315-9727

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6 • TUESDAY, January 28, 2014

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HERALD OPINION Parents! Do you know what’s on that phone? The joint Kamloops RCMP-KamloopsThompson school district investigation into students at various schools should be a sobering lesson for parents and teens. The probe is into a substantial number of high-school students sharing inappropriate images. While police and school district officials will not speak to the details of the investigation, it is well-known the teens have been engaging in a practice they may view with a shrug of their shoulders, but which may be criminal in nature. It is known teen boys have been asking teen girls to send them revealing photos of themselves. The boys are then alleged to have shared these photos with many other students, primarily by texting each other by cellphone. While many students have been aware of this practice for some time, it only became the subject of an investigation when it is believed a student took it upon herself to speak with school staff. It is a brave new world in terms of technology and teenagers need to understand the risque photo they send via the Internet today could haunt them for years to come. These images do not disappear; they remain alive in cyberspace and can travel around the world and be seen by millions of eyes in the blink of an eye. Beyond that, it must be pointed out that sending revealing photos of underage (under the age of 16) youth can be considered being involved in child pornography. Certainly, not one of the teenaged boys or girls trading photos would ever consider themselves to be purveyors of child porn — but, the Canadian justice system may disagree. Despite the nonchalant attitude that appears to be common among youth, this activity definitely is a big deal — and wrong on so many levels. This should also serve as a wake-up call to parents to regain control of their children’s electronic life. Check the phone often. Review their online activity. Insist on unfettered access. Kamloops This Week

Publisher Theresa Arnold production@ merrittherald.com

Writer’s block unwelcome in newsroom

Emily Wessel Merritt MUSINGS I had a really hard time finding something to write about for this glorious Tuesday edition of the Merritt Herald. It’s not for lack of anything interesting out there to write about; it’s just a result of that writing slump that occasionally and inevitably gets the better of you. When I first took

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MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

over as editor for the Herald, I was surprised to find the hardest adjustment from my previous position as reporter was writing columns. I would comb through dozens of websites to try to find something that I could write about that would be relevant, timely, and hopefully something I had a real opinion on. After all, I won’t slap my name on an opinion that isn’t mine and that isn’t honestly held. Finding these topics was harder than I had originally anticipated. Getting down to deadline, when I got really desperate, I would just stare at my

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

blank computer screen and await inspiration. Alas, it’s like when you open the fridge because you’re hungry but you don’t know what you want to eat. Nothing new magically pops up in there, but somehow, you keep opening the door, almost hoping that something would. I think the biggest source of my writer’s block when it came to columns (lo, those many months ago) was that I used to think they had to offer insight that had never made its way to paper on a topic. This led me to look for very serious political issues, reading and rereading international

Reporter Michael Potestio reporter@ merrittherald.com

newspapers, scouring for some critical angle that was left untouched. Of course, that’s pretty defeating when you’re up against some experts on human rights discussing abuses in Syria or political science pundits spouting off about uprisings in Egypt. What can I offer that these people can’t, or haven’t? Thankfully, it didn’t take me long to figure out that wasn’t the purpose of this column. This column is here to pick inspiration from wherever it comes from and provide a glimpse into a slice of life here in the Nicola Valley. Those are insights you

Sports writer Ian Webster sports@ merrittherald.com

don’t see in other newspapers. In the months since my opinion piece revelation, I wrote about whatever tickled my fancy. Anything that struck me as weird, wonderful, woeful or wacky could be the jumping-off point for a column. Take a column from last week, for example, about a family of cats that broke into a maximum-security prison in the States. That little story began the column, and segued into another topic: human-animal relationships and all the paradoxes these relationships contain.

See ‘Inspiration’ Page 7

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

TUESDAY, January 28, 2014 • 7

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YOUR OPINION

Community rallies in support of dance school Dear Editor, I am writing to you with great concern about a beloved service that is being taken away from our community. Lizette Nel came to Merritt from South Africa with hopes of bringing the art of dance to children and adults of all ages. Last week, Lizette gave me the sad news that she has to close the studio because she is not able to renew her work visa. Immigration Canada says she is not making enough money to stay in the country. Unless money can be raised for the ballet studio to help pay her the salary that Immigration Canada expects her to make, she has to go back to South Africa. We’ve enjoyed only a year of Lizette’s teaching at our little ballet studio in Merritt. Enrolment and programs are still in their infancy and I feel she has not been given a fair chance in Canada to build her business. She recently led the dance school to a successful performance during the Merritt Country Christmas. Lizette has used the dance school to enhance the beauty of our community by beautifying the grounds of the Olde Courthouse

where the studio is located. Lizette has created a grant program for underprivileged children who can’t afford dance lessons. Lizette has created a special dance class for children with disabilities. The list goes on an on with the wonderful things that Lizette has done for our community. My nine-year-old daughter attends classes at the dance academy and is working towards her Grade 3 Royal Academy of Dance ballet exams in the spring. She has been dancing since she was four years old. She’s also learning a special duet that she had planned to enter into the Kamloops Arts Festival. All of this is lost if we lose our teacher. But this is just my personal story; many other little girls in our community will be affected. I am at a loss as to how I will tell my daughter that her ballet lessons have been cancelled. This may reach the paper too late, but if not, donations are desperately needed. For more information, contact info@ dancelovers.ca. Candice Bateson Merritt

Inspiration fleeting, deadlines imminent From Page 6 Why do we eat some, kill some for sport, wear some, and keep some as family members? We can learn an endless amount about others and ourselves from animals and our relationships with them. I would hope the Nicola Valley connection here is obvious: people here love animals. Some rescue them, some hunt them, some (like me) pull over on the side of the road to take pictures of them when we’re lucky enough to spot them.

This week, I find myself in a bit of a bind that I expected to eventually creep up on me, but which is unwelcome nonetheless. When anything and everything becomes a potential column, sometimes there is just too much choice. This is where I find myself today, on a gloomy Monday, as our press deadline nears and I’m increasingly feeling the pressure. But I have one insight I can share with readers, and it’s about my columns.

M E R R I T T

My columns aren’t hard and fast analyses of “Very Important and Serious Topics” with some kind of astounding angle to them, nor are they intended to be. All I can hope is that they are enjoyable to read, and maybe cause the people who read them to think about or marvel at the strange, surprising and sometimes silly world we live in. And with that comes the conclusion of yet another column. (I promise I’ll try harder on Thursday.)

Phone: 250-378-6181

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See our full Real Estate Review inside the Thursday edition of the Merritt Herald.

We have known Herman and Lizette Nel for the past two years. This couple emigrated from South Africa to be Canadian citizens and to be close to their grandchildren, daughter and son-in-law. They are not dependent on Canadians, and are an exemplary couple. Lizette started the Love to Dance Academy last year and has had a very successful year training Merrittonians from ages two to 72 in the art of dance. At Christmas time, she put together a twoand-a-half hour performance at the Merritt Civic Centre, which was enjoyed by a full house. This week, she has informed her students that she will be shutting down the dance academy because Immigration Canada has decided that she is not earning enough money to support herself. Apparently, this means the Nels will have to return to South Africa! They have never been dependent on Canadian citizens to survive here and have only been interested in promoting goodwill in Merritt through dance and music. How can Immigration Canada decide that sending this wonderful couple back to South Africa is a good idea when it allows thugs and thieves into the country without batting an eye? Something must be done to allow the Nels to remain in Canada. Sincerely, Lois Ward, Ray and Shirley Emmerick Merritt

?

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PROVINCE

Fine print of wireless code of conduct DAN ALBAS View from the HILL Recently, one of the newspapers in Okanagan-Coquihalla asked an online survey question to readers. The question was a simple one: “Do you support the CRTC’s wireless code of conduct?” What got my attention was that nearly 70 per cent of those who took part in the survey felt the code of conduct was either confusing or that they lacked enough information to form an accurate

opinion. It is always concerning when such a large percentage of citizens indicate they lack sufficient information on a subject. In this case, information has been publicly available since the code of conduct was announced in June of last year. However, many may have tuned it out because while the announcement was made in June, the actual policy did not take effect until Dec. 2, 2013. Another reason may be that the wireless code of conduct will be implemented differently dependent upon individual circumstances. Any new wireless contract signed on or after Dec. 2, 2013 is already covered under

the new wireless code of conduct. What if your contract is dated prior to Dec. 2, 2013? If your pre-existing contract is renewed, extended or has had the key terms amended after Dec. 2, the wireless code of conduct will also apply to your contract. If your contract was signed prior to Dec. 2 and you have no need to renew, extend or otherwise change the terms of your contract, as of June 3, 2015, the wireless code of conduct will apply to all wireless contracts regardless of when they were signed. What are the benefits of the wireless code of conduct? Here is a brief summary of the conditions

the code of conduct places on wireless providers to your benefit as customers: • The ability to cancel your contract at no cost after a maximum of two years • The ability to cancel your contract and return your phone at no cost within 15 days (and specific usage limits) • To be able to have your phone unlocked after 90 days or immediately if you paid in full for your phone • The option to have your service suspended at no cost if your phone is lost or stolen • To receive a notification when you are roaming in a different country, disclosing what the rates

are for voice services, text messages, and data usage • To limit your data overage charges to $50 a month and your data roaming charges to $100 a month • To charge no extras for a service described as “unlimited.” You may also refuse a change to the key terms and conditions of your contract, including the services in your contract, the price for those services, and the duration of your contract. The above changes in some cases apply differently to pre-paid wireless services. If you have further questions or comments on the wireless code of conduct, please do not

from all walks of life and many regions of the province have received the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest award, including the late Sherwin Kelly (Merritt), the late F. Gordon Antoine (Mer-

ritt) and Judith Guichon (Quilchena). Nomination forms are available from the Honours and Awards Secretariat in Victoria (250-387-1616) or online at orderofbc.gov. bc.ca. Here is your oppor-

tunity to participate in the appointment of deserving British Columbians to the Order of British Columbia. The process begins with a nomination. Thank you for making it happen.

Honours and Awards Secretariat P.O. Box 9422, Stn. Prov. Govt Victoria, B.C. V8W 9V1 Fax: (250) 356-2814 Submitted by Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart

Dan Albas is the member of Parliament for OkanaganCoquihalla.

How’s your hearing? Ask an Audiologist.

Nomination process for Order of B.C. underway The Order of British Columbia offers British Columbians a golden opportunity to take part in the public recognition of individuals who demonstrate outstanding achievement, excellence and distinction in their particular fields of endeavour. Nominations are now being received for the 2014 Order of British Columbia. If you know anyone in this community who has truly led by example, your MLA’s office encourages you to nominate them for the Order of British Columbia. Nominations must be received by the first Friday in March to be considered this year. Nominations received after that date will be included in the selection process for the next calendar year. An independent advisory council, chaired by the Chief Justice of British Columbia, will consider nominations. Since 1990, 345 British Columbians

concern, I am always happy to hear from you. I can be reached via email at dan. albas@parl.gc.ca or toll-free 1-800-6658711.

hesitate to contact me directly. Next week I will be back in Ottawa as the House of Common is back in session. With the exception of the odd brief break, the House will sit from now until late June. As always, if you have a question or a

Carolyn Palaga, MSc, Aud (C)

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TUESDAY, January 28, 2014 • 9

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

Cents’ Kero commits to the Huskies By Ian Webster THE HERALD

sports@merrittherald.com

A third member of this year’s Merritt Centennials has committed to playing at an NCAA Division 1 school in the near future. Nineteen-year-old Cents’ netminder Devin Kero announced last week that he will join the Michigan Tech Huskies following the completion of his Junior A hockey career. Kero is the second current Centennial to commit to the Huskies. Eighteen-year-old defenceman Dane Birks signed a similar letter of intent in the fall of 2012. Earlier this season, 18-year-old forward Jeff Wight committed to the University of Connecticut. “We are very excited for Devin and the opportunity that he has been given to continue his hockey career at Michigan Tech,” said Centennials head coach and GM Luke Pierce in a Jan. 24 press release. “Playing for the Huskies has been a dream of Devin’s for a long time and to see a young man achieve a dream like that is gratifying,” added Pierce. “He has earned this opportunity with

tremendous hard work and dedication, not only with our hockey club but in all aspects of his life. Devin is a tremendous student and understands the value of a quality education, which he will receive at Michigan Tech.” Kero’s commitment to Michigan Tech came just three days after his return from a flydown to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, one of several other American colleges and universities interested in the talented Merritt goalie. “I went on the trip to Air Force and really enjoyed my visit,” said Kero. “By the time I got back, I had received an offer from Michigan Tech. It took me a few days — talking to my coaches, my family, my friends — to weigh the pros and cons of everything. I felt that the best fit for me was to go with Michigan Tech.” Helping with the decision are the strong ties that Devin and his family have with Michigan Tech and the Huskies program. The Keros live in Hancock, Mich., just a five minute drive from the Michigan Tech campus in nearby Houghton. Devin’s father works at Tech, while his brother,

GOIN’ TO THE DOGS Merritt Centennials goalie Devin Kero has committed to the Michigan Tech Huskies. Ian Webster/Herald

Tanner, and cousin, Blake, are both juniors (third-year players) on the Huskies hockey team. Devin’s sister, Jordanna, is in her final year at Tech, and plays

on the ladies’ varsity volleyball team. “It really helps to know what I’m getting into,” said Devin. Michigan Tech’s educational offerings also

played an important part in Kero’s decision. “They have great academic programs, “ he said. “They’re one of the best [schools] in the country in engineering,

and all of their other majors are top notch, too.” Kero has been on the Michigan Tech radar for some time. “They first talked to me almost two years ago, and this summer I skated with some of their players in a couple of pickup games. It was actually [Huskies] assistant coach Bill Muckalt who recommended that I come to Merritt and play in the BCHL.” Muckalt, a former Merritt Centennial and a good friend of Pierce, was reached on Monday but could not comment on the Kero commitment due to NCAA restrictions. When the time comes, Kero and Birks will both join a Michigan Tech hockey program rich in tradition and strong in its connection to the British Columbia Hockey League. Huskies men’s hockey has been in existence since 1919. It has produced three national champions (1962, 1965 and 1975) as well as seven Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) titlists. Player alumni include legendary goaltender Tony Esposito (Chicago Blackhawks), Stanley Cup winners

Bob Lorimer (NY Islanders) and Randy McKay (New Jersey Devils) and current NHLers Andy Sutton (Edmonton Oilers) and big John Scott (Buffalo Sabres). The Huskies present roster has no fewer than nine former BCHL players listed, including Justin Fillion (Victoria), Alex Petan (Coquitlam) and Shane Hanna (Salmon Arm). Three other ex-BCHLers — Max Valis, Brent Baltus and Max Gould — all have strong connections to the Centennials. Vallis, a native of California, played the 2010-11 season with the Cents, while Baltus attended several Merritt training camps before latching on with the Trail Smoke Eaters. Gould, who played for Quesnel and Chilliwack, is the older brother of current Centennial Gavin Gould. Kero is enjoying a tremendous rookie season with the Merritt Centennials. In 34 games played, he has allowed just 82 goals for a 2.39 GAA (5th best in the league). His 0.920 SV% ranks him third amongst all BCHL goalies. Kero was selected BCHL Player of the Week for the week of Jan. 13-20.

BCHL holds its annual mid-season meeting By Ian Webster THE HERALD

sports@merrittherald.com

The British Columbia Hockey League held its mid-season meeting in Richmond last week. Merritt Centennials’ Director of Hockey Operations and longstanding BCHL governor Brian Barrett was in attendance. “It was a very good meeting,” Barrett said. “Everyone was on the same page when it comes to the future of the league, and the financial health of its

member clubs.” Barrett said that all the teams in the BCHL, as well as junior teams across the country, are feeling the crunch of ever-rising operational costs. “We’re all looking for ways to increase revenue and decrease expenses.” To that end, Barrett said teams have restated their commitment to the BCHL’s mission statement — “Competitors on the ice, but partners off the ice” — and findings ways and means by which to help one

another. “One of the discussion points was ticket prices,” said Barrett. “Several teams actually lowered their season ticket prices this year in order to try and get

more people coming to games on a regular basis. I think all the teams, including us, are looking at that possibility for next season. It might even extend to walk-up prices.”

The league would also like to make its annual Showcase at the beginning of the season more financially viable. “Everyone agrees that it’s a great event on the ice, with all the teams in attendance at one place,” said Barrett. “But right now, the Showcase loses money. We’ve got to find a way to get more sponsorships and other revenue streams.” Another way the BCHL is looking to reduce costs is by dropping the number of

player cards that a club begins the season with from 45 down to 35, and by limiting the number of separate player transactions a club can make in a season to seven. “Trades of any kind incur additional costs,” said Barrett. “By limiting the amount of player movement, perhaps we can reduce those expenses.” In another interesting piece of business, the BCHL received an application again this year from Wenatchee,

Wash. for a league franchise. The American city made a similar request in January 2013. The Wenatchee Wild have been a Tier II Junior A hockey team in the North American Hockey League since 2008. The teams plays out of the 4,300-seat Town Toyota Centre. The Wild have won three NAHL Western Division titles in their five-year history. Last season, they lost in the league’s Robertson Cup final to the Amarillo Bulls.

10 • TUESDAY, January 28, 2014

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CLASS 1 TRUCK DRIVER We’re looking for a Class 1 truck driver with experience or willingness to learn. Positions are available for morning and afternoon shifts. Must be comfortable with running the Coquihalla Hwy every day. Hauling includes wood chips & residuals, and mostly within the Nicola Valley Area. We offer our employees extended Medical/Dental, and RRSP plan and Costco memberships. Class 1 commercial drivers license required. Location: Merritt Available: Immediately Full Time Posted: 24/01/2014 Come work for a reputable, family owned & operated company in the trucking business for over 50 years. Please forward your resume and driver’s abstract to: jacqueline@valleycarriers.com or Valley Carriers 3040 Sunshine Valley Rd. West Merritt, B.C. V1K 1R5

SHOP LOCALLY Telephone Services DISCONNECTED PHONE? National Teleconnect home phone service. No one refused! Low monthly rate! Calling features and unlimited long distance available. Call National Teleconnect today! 1866-443-4408. or visit online: www.nationalteleconnect.com

Merchandise for Sale

Misc. for Sale 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 at: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Home and Land Packages Springbank Ave, Merritt

Completely Serviced City Services Turn Key STARTING FROM

$249,900.00 Call 250-573-2278 Toll Free 1-866-573-1288

7510 Dallas Drive, Kamloops www.eaglehomes.ca

TRY A CLASSIFIED AD

TUESDAY, January 28, 2014 • 11

www.merrittherald.com

Rentals

Rentals

Apt/Condo for Rent

Rooms for Rent

FOR RENT 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT

Looking for boarders, furnished rooms available March 1st. Beautiful home. Must be working, prefer contract workers, close to down town core. Not for permanent residence. Basement for 600 hundred, or upstairs room for 500 hundred. Includes utilities, but does not include food. Call Tracey at 250-378-8852

1 unit available, 1st Áoor unit ideal for seniors

Available Jan. 1, 2014

$750/month incl. heat & laundry.

100 OFF 1 MONTHS RENT Newly renovated units “Clapperton Manor” 2775 Clapperton Ave. 250-315-8340 $

ST

Duplex / 4 Plex Available immediately, 2 bedroom duplex. Washer, dryer, fridge, stove, heat and light included. $950 per month. 250378-0887

Mobile Homes & Pads

Suites, Lower 2 bdrm basement suite. Avail immed. $800/mon. util. incl. W/d, no pets and no smoking. May req. ref. Contact Sandy or Jas at 250-315-4675 Fully furnished basement Suite for rent. $550.00 a month. Avail. immed. No pets. Ref. req. 250-315-0019 Large 3 bdrm lower suite for rent. F/s, heat incl., w/d on site. Avail March 1/14. $750 month. No pets, no-smoking. 604-701-6493 One bdrm ground level suite on Bann St. Avail immed. 250378-5610

Transportation

Auto Financing

It takes 11 muscles to read this ad.

Available immediately, 1 bedroom trailer. Washer, dryer, fridge, stove, heat and light included. $850 per month. 250378-0887

Homes for Rent 4 bdrm 1 1/2 bath home for rent. Avail immed. $1050 month, heat & Hydro incl. Recently. renovated, no cats. Phone 250-378-9607 4 bdrm, 2 bath, 2 living room, house for rent. Very large and spacious. Available immediately. Nice and clean. With jacuzzi tub. Everything included. 250-378-4392

TRY A CLASSIFIED AD

Rooms for Rent

Trucks & Vans

Furnished room for rent $415/mon. Incl. util. Call 250378-5128

2005 Chevy Uplander van with remote start. $3900 obo 250378-5519

Auto Financing

Auto Financing

Need a Vehicle?

Call the

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

IF YOU WORK,YOU DRIVE

Call Steve Today 1.855.740.4112 • murraygmmerritt.com

Houses For Sale

Houses For Sale

FOR SALE

HOUSE & ATTACHED GARAGE

for sale. Must be moved or dissassembled by April 1, 2014. Full basement - solid house.

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$25,000

Ph: 250-378-6044

12 • TUESDAY, January 28, 2014

www.merrittherald.com

250-378-6333

JAN. 31

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: T E F F *BU

11

M P 0 0 : 2 M A 0 :3 ONLY *LUNCH

R E N N I D OR FOR A Y O J N E , N O I T A R B E L CE F O Y T E I R A V E D I W OUR ! S E C I O H MENU C DOOR PRIZES RED ENVELOPES 4025 Walters St. - Just off Voght Street next to Quality Inn $$$

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