Merritt Herald, August 29, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

POLICE REPORT PAGE 3

NEW FACE AT CITY HALL PAGE 9

CENTS SCHEDULE ALL SET PAGE 20

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2013 • MERRITT NEWSPAPERS

City manager announces resignation Noble looking forward to opportunity in Saskatchewan By Emily Wessel THE HERALD

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The City of Merritt has filled its economic development and financial services manager positions, but will soon say goodbye to its chief administrative officer. The city announced Matt Noble’s resignation this week as he moves on to a similar position with the City of Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan. “I never in my life expected that I’d be going back to that province,” Noble said, referencing his time spent at the City of Swift Current. “It just works out that way, and the opportunity was something I could not say no to. I see it as being a tremendous move, especially at this stage in my career, to practice at the highest level and I’m pretty excited to experience management at that level.” Noble said the new position will use many of the skills and experience he’s acquired acting as both chief administrative officer and corporate services manager for the City of Merritt. This will be the biggest city he’s

managed, Noble said. “It’s definitely an upwardlymobile thing to do,” he said. “It’s a large number of employees and a much, much larger budget. It’s the same position, only much bigger.” Noble said he expects the move to benefit his family as well as his professional goals. Before he moves, Noble said all there’s left to do before his last day at the City of Merritt on Sept. 13 is tie up loose ends. “Now there’s really nothing left to do except tend to affairs here, conduct an orderly transition, and prepare to accept the new responsibilities. In my absence, I’ll be splitting up some of the files while they wait on an interim until competitions are held,” he said, adding that he feels confident leaving the files to other managers. “We still have a pretty strong management team here.” Noble said it will be hard to leave the Merritt team, of which he has been a part for the last three years. “I feel fortunate, from an administration perspective, that I’ve had an opportunity to work with these guys. They’re a small crew but they

Matt Noble will spend his last day as the City of Merritt’s chief administrative officer on Sept. 13. Herald file photo

handle a lot on behalf of the citizens,” he said. Merritt Mayor Susan Roline said the sentiment is mutual.

“He’s been a big asset to our community,” Roline said. “He’s done a lot for this city. The community he’s going to is very fortunate

to be getting a person like that, with that knowledge base that he has and just his commitment. He will be missed, that’s for sure.”

MSS taking action on attendance issues By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

With the new school year just around the corner, Merritt Secondary School is taking steps to ensure once its students start attending classes again, they continue to do so throughout the year. Principal Bill Lawrence told the Herald attendance is an area of concern this

year because in-house stats show a correlation between missed days and failing grades. Over the past three years, 36 per cent of MSS students have missed 16 or more days of school per year. The students in that 36 per cent account for 70 per cent of courses that have failing grades in them. “Overall, we just have a lot not attending,” Lawrence

said. Lawrence said to deal with the attendance issue, MSS plans to implement some action items such as surveying students on why they attend regulary or why they miss classes. “We’re going to actively look at, as a staff, strategies that promote student engagement. Really, what you’re talking about is students disengaging from

school and that’s an attendance issue,” Lawrence said. “And there are all kinds of reasons for that. Sometimes there are things going on at home they need to be home for, sometimes there’s drug issues, sometimes there’s mental health issues. There are all kinds of different reasons why kids don’t attend, and so we’re going to do a real strong examination of those [reasons] and do

something about the factors we can do something about,” Lawrence said. Lawrence said because MSS students live in a rural community, it’s understandable students might have to miss some school days to access services for which they need to leave town. MSS is also consulting Stepping up the Pace: Improving Attendance, a How-to MiniGuide and the University of

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Alberta publication Student Engagement: What do we know and what should we do? to help guide the actions they take regarding attendance this year. Stepping up the Pace says Grade 9 students who miss five of the first 30 days of school are at serious risk of not graduating, Lawrence told the Herald.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS POLICE REPORT

Man flags down police, resists arrest On Aug. 22 at approximately 2:45 a.m., Merritt RCMP were flagged down by a male who could not stand up due to his level of intoxication. The man, a 54-year-old from Surrey, was arrested for being intoxicated in a public place. The male attempted to walk away from the police but was taken into custody. He then began kicking at the police officers as he was getting into the police vehicle. While the administrative work was being processed at the detachment, the man kicked an officer in the leg. He is facing criminal charges on two counts of assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. He is required to attend provincial court in October. People riding in pickup box On Aug. 16 at approximately 2 a.m., Merritt RCMP

observed a pickup truck travelling south on Voght Street with several people in the box of the truck. The pickup was stopped and the driver, a 17-year-old female from Langley, was found to have been drinking and her ability to operate a motor vehicle was impaired. Her vehicle was impounded for 30 days and her driving privileges were suspended for 90 days. Man kicks in door, punches homeowner On Aug. 19 at approximately 4 a.m., Merritt RCMP received a report that a male had kicked in the door of a residence in the 1900 block of Voght Street and stolen money from the owner. In the process, the 41-yearold local man was carrying a knife and punched the owner in the face and slashed at him with the knife.

Reid Avenue. Stolen items include some loose change.

The victim, a local 43-year-old male, received minor injuries. The investigation is continuing as police are trying to locate the 41-year-old man. Tailgate taken Sometime between 10 a.m. and 10:20 a.m. on Aug. 20, unknown person(s) stole a tailgate off the back of a Ford F350 super duty truck. The owner advised that he was only away from his vehicle for 20 minutes. He believes that the suspect(s) were also trying to steal a quad that was tied down in

the back of the truck. GPS stolen from vehicle Sometime overnight on Aug. 16, unknown person(s) stole several items from a vehicle parked in the 1800 block of Douglas Street. Stolen items include a black and grey Garmin GPS unit, a screwdriver and a tire iron. Change stolen from vehicle Sometime overnight on Aug. 22, unknown person(s) broke into a vehicle while it was parked in the 2400 block of

Wallet stolen from vehicle Sometime overnight on Aug. 22, unknown person(s) broke into a vehicle while it was parked in the 1700 block of Juniper Drive. Items stolen include a wallet containing ID, a SIN card, other personal papers and some coins. Two injured in brawl On Aug. 17 at approximately 3 a.m., Merritt RCMP responded to a report that four males had shown up at a residence in the 2500 block of Clapperton Avenue and assaulted two males, ages 27 and 30. The assault allegedly occurred over a past love relationship. A 19-yearold allegedly got upset with the 30-year-old victim and began

to punch him, and two friends, aged 24 and 31, joined in the assault. The fourth male allegedly tried to break the fight up and was assaulted by the group. Both victims received cuts but refused to go to the hospital. Charges are pending against the three local men who will appear in provincial court in October. GPS stolen from vehicle Sometime overnight on August 19, unknown person(s) broke into a vehicle while it was parked in the 2100 block of Clapperton Avenue. The suspect(s) stole a black Megadallion GPS, a black iPod in a black Otter Box case and two cellphone chargers.

“We’re going to earmark those kids strongly for intervention, whatever that intervention looks like,” Lawrence said. The school has a draft of other action items regarding attendance they to implement depending on the amount of commitment MSS staff can provide, Lawrence said. In-house statistics show courses at all five grade levels at MSS had multiple students receiving failing grades.

Last year, there were 48 Grade 12 courses failed by 23 students. In Grade 11, there were 111 failed courses by 56 students, as well as 91 failed Grade 10 courses between 51 students. Forty students failed 82 Grade 9 students, while 12 students in Grade 8 failed 33 courses. Lawrence said there is a correlation between the percentage of failed courses and students who miss 20 or more days of school. In 2011, 75 per cent

of failed Grade 12 classes were by students who missed 20 days or more — which was the highest percentage of any grade. In 2012, the highest percentage was from Grade 11 courses which had 76 per cent of failed courses come from students missing 20 or more days of school. Last year, it was the Grade 10s who topped the list at 77 per cent of failed courses coming from students who missed at least 20 days. Those percentages didn’t drop below 52

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per cent for any grade between 2011 and 2013. “Last year, Grade 10 was our worst year around failed courses. It changes, it depends on cohorts, it depends on all that kind of stuff,” Lawrence said. The stats show the highest percentage of First Nations students who missed more than 16 days was in Grade 12 at 63 per cent in 2011 and 63 per cent for Grade 11 in 2012. Last year, the highest percentage of courses failed by aboriginal stu-

Merritt detachment: (250) 3784262 Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS

dents who missed 16 or more days was 55 per cent, from Grade 10. Those percentages hovered slightly above and below the 50 per cent mark for aboriginal students at each grade level over the past three years. The goal this year is to reduce the percentage of students who miss 16 or more days of school from 36 to 30 per cent, Lawrence said. MSS also wants to reduce the number of failing grades at each grade level.

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MERRIT T HER ALD Earthqua k TUESDAY, AUGU ST 27,

1905

bcclassified.c om

2013 •

MERRITT NEWSPAPER S

e shakes

By Michae l Potestio THE HERAL westward, reporter@m D errittherald.c against the rubbing up om A 2.6 Merritt creating Pacific plate, earthqu magnitude an John was resident Jody ake shook squeezing east-west the Central Merritt effect, which apartmentoutside her Friday night occurs through School field Elementary about 9:26 cigarette smoking a North Americ out p.m. and at lighting firework resident off the quake.when she felt s s. “It’s more a. and the around the city Tomkin reaction Her initial accelera Nicola Valley in British son said was to ted was no chance could feel there it. east-west Columbia, this the source of think that was the cause the shakThe Geolog built up squeezing, that ing was her washing ical people feltof the shaking Survey of the machine. way, way mountains that night. and heard firmed the Canada conin the past,” When Rogers said. was located earthquake Rogers hit, so too the earthquake “But that east-west did the claims a person said the closer kilometres about 20 squeezi on social ‘stress,’ if ng or quake’s is to the earthMerritt. north of the cause media of what location There were in the crustyou like, is still more violent , the reports of no could be. of the shaking the cause today, and is the shaking feels. would any damage, nor of earthqu Various that be expecte akes users we see in social media from an Rogers d southern earthqu British Columb said ake there have said though below a boom or they heard a magnitu ia.” He said any damaginever been de of 5. Garry explosio some sort of there was nothing n, includin quakes in ng earthearthqu Rogers, an unusua unconfirmed g an ake Interior, the B.C. the Geolog scientist with the earthquake l about a car explodi report of this was a typical and it still earthqu province is of Canada ical Survey ng downtown. ern British one southin Victoria ake country said the “We’ve , . City of small experiences Columbia damaging never had a is the result quake Chief DaveMerritt Fire of seismic He said every year. (at least earthquake activity Tomkin told the under North in historic quakes like small earthHerald the son in that region, America. time) departm typically this one are ent received but where there are only felt He said reports quakes, little earthis drifting the continent and occur in the locally Friday of an explosiono there gradually n area about Merritt night. The be big ones, can always est call to closfive to sevenonce every an explosio reminder so it’s a they respond years. n that Britishto everybody ed to a report of people was as a whole Columbia at country,” is earthquake This Rogers said. By Michae map from by the star. the Geologica l Potestio THE HERAL l Survey Submitted of Canada searched reporter@m D shows the errittherald.c belongingsthe employees, location om Two separate of the earthquak their possible,” tion site. and the constru of drugs instance e as indicated Mitchell s c- the wrote in employerson job sites hit area email. JV Drivers Mitchell action upon said it took one case recently and in The Thursd said. led to the receivin ay, Aug. edition of mation Jim Oosten formal grievan g inforfiling of 15 a banned regarding possible reported Kamloops This Week of the Constru brink, head “We are On August ce. substances proceed ction with the Workers marijuanathat cocaine and 13 and 14, work site, employees grievance ing Union for Allied JV Driveron the toleranc basis of which on the search and were found in munications B.C., compan of contracted e policy coman ies some employ the employrepresents JV on substan abuse taking manage Oostenbrinkillegal search,” were Mitchell InstallationsJV Drivers Drivers r Boyd sent home. ees, ce ees place on told the property, Inc. and has filed said the union ’ He said said. email. Herald via their — who Mitchell Fluor a are working confirm and the which the union expectin the union is with the formal grievan were discover Highlan ed “In light compan g on the ce compan d Valley y support of this informa as well as ed but diddrugs the compana response from y. disclose tion, we He said mine expansi Copper , a not which focus y were the some time workers on getting week. substances legally and made aware union was they were. morally were surprise on project — help if they this obligate substance taking place the search wasnot have d to act Richard to ensure rity handlin d to find secu“Through abuse problem and is calling these searche g drug resentative Boyce, a repillegal. “We also some banned safety of the continued dogs on s. it the job site.detection people — encourage Steelworkersof the United were uncover substances s, searches the workplace. All Despite They were conduc seeing Union 7619, ed and disposed reports individu if they think an which represen of by the the least al ted in in which media obtrusiv and they is not fit for work Valley Copper ts Highlan ny the been no RCMP. There e manner show up d repercussions have on said they discover compathe mornin there in our employ the site, ed drugs of Teck, told employees to the Herald ees as a supervis g — to go to viewed JV Drivers Oostenbrink result,” their or he said “witch the searche ROOFIN has not thing, or and say somedirectly. s as a G & SHINGL told him hunt” ES first and go to the individu Boyce said and excessive. say somethi al Highlan Boyce Valley Copper ng,” said, d has a zeroneed a drug noting “you don’t dog to do that.” See ‘Mill,

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• Earthquake shakes Merritt A 2.6 magnitude earthquake shook Merritt Friday night and residents around the city and the Nicola Valley could feel it.

• Union files grievance over drug search at job site Two separate instances of drugs on job sites hit area employers recently and in one case led to the filing of a formal grievance.

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS MY NAME IS BJ.

TREASURE HUNTING

I am Nisga’a and I am an N V IT graduate.

Visiting from Chilliwack, Matt Trites and his daughter Abagail along with their dog Marlie take part in a scavenger hunt at Monck Park. The event was put on by park facility operators Doug and Toni Laird on Aug. 24.

N V IT supported my plans, helped me build strength and guided my journey.

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Residents urged to be bear aware By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

reporter@merrittherald.com

The number of reported bear sightings around the Merritt area is down compared to last year, but people still need to remain aware of bears as autumn approaches say conservation officials. “Anything can change in the fall,” Wildsafe BC co-ordinator for the Thompson-Nicola Regional District Emily Lomas told the Herald. Lomas said so far in 2013, Wildsafe BC has had almost onethird the number of reported sightings of bears in and around Merritt of the number they had in 2012. In 2011 there were 22 reported sightings

of bears around Merritt, 60 in 2012 and as of last Friday, just 13 so far this year. Lomas said the reduced number of bear sightings could stem from a number of variables, but one of the biggest is a large natural berry crop and other food sources that were plentiful this year. Some problem bears have also been destroyed, and people better managing their attractants may have also played a factor in the reduction of sightings so far. Sometimes different sightings will be of the same bear, Lomas said. Lomas said almost all of the bear sightings in Merritt, aside from bears that were injured on roads, involved garbage.

BEAR SIGHTINGS BY THE NUMBERS 2011: 22 2012: 60 2013: 13 (as of Aug. 23) Sighting in Kamloops region down about 40 per cent from 2012

WILDSAFE BC She said it’s important for residents to either store their garbage inside or in a bear-proof container. It is also advised not to put out the garbage the night before garbage pickup, she said. Lomas said it’s important to pick the fruit off fruit trees as it too attracts bears, who could damage those

trees in the process. In the Kamloops region, the number of sightings is down by about 40 per cent between this year and last, Lomas said. “It’s been a good year so far, but the autumn is always different because that’s when the bears are really hungry,” Lomas said. In the autumn months, bears are very active in their search for food to pack on the pounds for hibernation, Lomas said, so if they spot fruit trees or garbage, they will eat it. People can log on to wildsafebc. com/warp and see where the latest bear sightings have been in Merritt. Sightings can also be reported online.

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THURSDAY, August 29, 2013 • 5

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Federal riding redistributed Merritt’s riding loses Penticton, gains Princeton, Keremeos, part of Kelowna

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The Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission for British Columbia has completed redrawing the map of electoral boundaries, which will be in effect for the next federal election. The name of the riding Merritt resides in has changed from Okanagan-Coquihalla to Central OkanaganSimilkameen-Nicola. This riding now consists of places such as Merritt, Logan Lake, Princeton, Keremeos, Peachland, Summerland and West Kelowna. Arguably the biggest changes are the loss of Penticton and incorporation of Princeton, Keremeos and parts of Kelowna. The riding has dropped in population to 104,398 people which is slightly below the quota of 105,000. That quota is intended to be the average size of each riding to create an equal distribution of population. This riding also has the smallest population of the B.C. Interior ridings. OkanaganCoquihalla member of Parliament Dan Albas said the population of the riding has dropped by about 10,000 people. Albas told the Herald with the absence of Penticton, Merritt will have a much larger presence in the riding. “I view this as being a very positive thing for Merritt as this region has much to offer and we need to continue to find ways to promote this incredible part of British Columbia,” Albas said. He said he also views having Princeton and Merritt in the same riding as a positive. He said in larger urban centres, small resource, industrybased communities like Princeton and Merritt are constantly under attack from big city politicians who want to

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see those industries, such as forestry and mining, banned. “I hear this continually in the House [of Commons], even the opposition parties frequently oppose these industries, and I believe that there’s strength in numbers and promoting the importance of resource development to communities like Merritt and Princeton will help the economic interests of the region,” Albas said. Not everyone was content with the changes to the ridings, Albas said, noting he’s heard people in Kelowna express thoughts that they’d be better served under the status quo, viewing Kelowna as a much more urban riding with no natural affinity to the Merritt area. He said the separation of Penticton and Summerland for the first time has aroused some concern as well. “This is not an easy process,” Albas said. The commission states combining Summerland and Penticton wouldn’t have been feasible as it would’ve resulted in an electoral district with a population variance well

above the quota. Albas — who’s originally from Penticton — has yet to choose which riding he will run in next election. He will be choosing between Merritt’s Central OkanaganSimilkameen-Nicola riding and the SouthOkanagan WestKootenay riding, which now houses Penticton. Albas said he will be taking some time to talk with his wife, supporters and constituents before making a final decision. The Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission was created in February 2012 to set boundaries so each electoral district contains roughly the same number of people while taking into account communities of interest or identity, historical patterns and geographic size in sparsely populated regions. After considering the views of the public and objections by members of the House of Commons, the commission submitted its final report to the chief electoral officer for transmission to the Speaker of the House. The report was tabled in the House on Aug. 21. The chief

electoral officer will use this report when drafting the representation order, which is expected to become official in the fall.

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HERALD OPINION Seattle PD’s progressive chip on collective shoulder By Christopher Foulds

KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK editor@kamloopsthisweek.com

When potheads gathered in Seattle for the annual Hempfest festival on the weekend, the police were well trained and ready, armed to the teeth with — Doritos. Yes, Doritos. In a deliciously forward-thinking strategy, the men and women in Emerald City blue decided to send a message in a light and playful way. The department’s decision to have officers hand out bags of Doritos with stickers containing warning and advice was a brilliant move — and one other police agencies everywhere should think of emulating. Yes, voters last year decided to make recreational pot use legal in the state, but that does not mean marijuana use is as free as the Wild West. Like alcohol, marijuana remains strictly regulated in Washington (and in Colorado, the other state to legalize recreational use in the November 2012 initiatives). In fact, people lighting up outside at Hempfest in Seattle were indeed breaking the law as public use of marijuana, like public consumption of alcohol, remains illegal. However, rather than issue tickets to every Cheech and Chong in the throng, the Seattle PD decided instead to be proactive and funny, by handing out bags of Doritos to revellers. Affixed to each bag of cheesy delight was a sticker. “We thought you might be hungry” was the headline on the sticker, below which contained information on the specifics of the new law on marijuana use.

See ‘Nothing to lose’ Page 7

Publisher Theresa Arnold production@ merrittherald.com

“No comment” is a comment in itself

Emily Wessel Merritt MUSINGS In a newsroom, few phrases incite raised eyebrows like “No comment.” The phrase invokes images of celebrities being led out of courthouses, sunglasses on, hood and hands up, while a team of lawyers and bodyguards elbow their way through the crowd of aggressive reporters and photographers. But reporters in all

Production Shel Hein production2@ merrittherald.com

areas encounter “no comment” all the time, and it’s not saying nothing. Rather, the comment “no comment” makes is that a person, corporation, business or other organization is unwilling to share information. And when a person, corporation, business or other organization comes off as unwilling to share information, that tends to lead to more questions. When people talk to reporters, they’re not just talking to that voice on the other end of the phone line or responding to an email. They are speaking through that reporter to the people who want to read about their message — or lack thereof. The message “no comment” sends is that it’s not those readers’ business.

Editor Emily Wessel newsroom@ merrittherald.com

MERRITT HERALD 2090 G

People have all kinds of reasons for putting up this verbal roadblock. Understandably, sometimes a person has had a bad experience talking to a reporter and so that person’s guard is up with all media people. Though it’s not fair to paint all reporters with the same brush, it’s fair to hesitate. Sometimes the information is private and that’s why it can’t be disclosed. It is OK to tell a reporter that a comment to media is not permissable on a certain topic, but it comes off as more trustworthy if the reason for not sharing information is provided. That doesn’t have to be detailed or exhaustive, but simply stated. Sometimes a person doesn’t have the answer to perhaps a tough question

Reporter Michael Potestio reporter@ merrittherald.com

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

immediately. Instead of saying “no comment” a simple “I don’t know, I’ll find out, and I’ll get back to you” — complete with follow-through — is ideal, though it may not always be realistic. Yes, some reporters are pushy, but so are some people in all industries everywhere. The point is, many reporters are reasonable people and their job requires them to ask questions that aren’t always comfortable for the people they’re asking or for them to ask, for that matter. Reporters have a job to do, and it’s not public relations. If the comment is “no comment,” we reserve the right to write that. We can only give out what you give us. Our job is to tell what’s happening or what happened. A

Sports writer Ian Webster sports@ merrittherald.com

little respect for that goes a long way. The takeaway comment on the phrase “no comment” is this: the loaded two-word phrase isn’t just delivered to the reporter. That message goes to readers, viewers, listeners, friends, family, neighbours, acquaintances, mortal enemies, and so on; whoever taps into that media source. When people talk to us, they’re in charge of their own PR, but there’s no reason these people lacking comments for whatever reason can’t find a benefit in that conversation. An interview is, more often than not, more than just a Q&A. We get insight and information, and in return, we provide an opportunity for people to get their messages out.

Office manager Carol Soames classifieds@ merrittherald.com

FAX (250) 378-6818

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

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

THURSDAY, August 29, 2013 • 7

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YOUR OPINION Silver lining in letter saga Dear Editor, I have followed the recent letters regarding the ‘decor’ and ‘patronage’ of the Coldwater Hotel. 1. I think you were entirely too hard on yourself for publishing the initial letter from a former tenant. I think it is your job to publish, not critique, such letters. That was news and therefore Merrittonians had a right to read that letter. 2. It became an advertising gold mine for the new proprietors. You can not buy such great space as the first letter produced. 3. Now, all Merrittonians who have read the letters have a greater understanding of exactly where our great old heritage building, the Coldwater Hotel, stands in the community and where its future lies. I was not aware of the new proprietors’ struggle or indeed that there were new owners. I am heartened that there are such people who will take on such an endeavour, and I wish them every success. Mo Tomchuk Merritt

Downtown weeds out of control Dear Editor, The largest percentage of Merritt’s stores, office buildings, leisure and sports buildings as well as city hall and a local Information Centre are located in a very small area of the city. Unfortunately, it is also a very neglectedlooking area with weeds growing out of sidewalks, along curbs and even around some buildings. Each year sees further spreading of these weeds. We hope to attract tourists and encourage them to stop, shop, stay and maybe even move here. However, the appearance of the area does nothing to encourage that. Instead, it gives you the impression no one cares! Arriving via Voght Street, there are weeds growing out of side-

walks as you hit Lions Park and continue past the Desert Inn and A&W. At the Intown motel, there are tall weeds on both sides of their sidewalk plus inside the yard. Even city hall, which has lovely hanging baskets, has weeds coming out of the sidewalk — as do many areas as far as the sidewalk continues on Voght Street. If you turn onto Merritt Avenue at the Desert Inn there are again weeds on both sides, including by the curling rink and arena. Turn onto Garcia Street and the old Red Top Cafe has weeds all around. The block from Nicola to Granite has lots of weeds and the Royal Bank parking lot has weeds on the sidewalks that are now growing into their hardtopped parking lot, as is

the case of City Furniture’s parking lot. Nicola Avenue has weeds and if you turn onto Charters, all four properties in the block to Granite are in need of a clean up. The Crystal Gardens has weeds all over the sidewalk and also growing into cracks in their parking lot. City Furniture’s warehouse did have some weeds poisoned in the spring but more were never removed and now there are new ones growing. At the side of their building on Granite Avenue there are weeds three feet tall. Even the dentist office on the corner of Quilchena and the government offices on the bend have weeds. Sad to say our newly upgraded Granite Avenue block also has weeds, and the

two parking lots on that block have weeds against the buildings. Isn’t it time the business people or property owners as well as the city properly got busy and cleaned their areas, pulling the weeds and taking them to the landfill? If not, hopefully the city will send a crew to clean up this small downtown area. It needs to be done now as, if you walk past the Intown motel, you can see the weeds are dropping seeds. If this area were cleaned up, it might make homeowners and places like the Catholic Church follow their lead. We need to get the problem under control or we could die brown as the Weed Capital of Canada. Bev Stanich Merritt

Nothing to lose by trying legalization From Page 6 For example, while recreational pot use is legal in Washington, it is still illegal to possess more than an ounce, to smoke it in public, to drive while under its influence and to sell it without a licence. Not unlike alcohol, come to think of it, which is where Canada should be heading, rather than continue on its path to the failures of the past with Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s nonsensical war-on-marijuana approach that has done nothing but prove its failure every step of the way. While voters in Washington and Colorado decide to embrace common sense and police in Seattle decide to pull back on the

traditionally histrionic reaction to pot, Ottawa decides to build more prisons and make organized crime smile all the way to the bank. Much has been made about federal Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau’s admission that he has smoked dope while an MP. Choosing to break the law while elected and employed as a lawmaker is rather foolish and Trudeau should not engage in any illegal activity if he wishes to remain not only a lawmaker, but one who leads a federal political party. However, there are lawmakers at all three levels of government who have broken the law by driving faster than the posted speed limit. The latter is far more serious than Trudeau’s transgres-

‘‘

‘If illegal marijuana has given birth to organized crime and all sorts of personal hell, what do we have to lose by trying a legalization/ regulation/taxation approach? — KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK’S CHRISTOPHER FOULDS

sion unless you are among the stubborn among us who cling to the belief Reefer Madness was a serious documentary and that smoking a joint will lead to a life of misery — both of which are laughable claims still being argued with serious faces. Not long ago, I had a good-spirited debate with a former police officer who remains adamant that mari-

juana should remain illegal as it is indeed a gateway drug that has led many to the horror that is the Downtown Eastside in Vancouver. We had this debate while consuming alcohol, a legal drug far more devastating to person and society than marijuana can ever hope to be. The point I was trying to make was this: Even if I accept that marijuana is evil

and responsible for every poor soul now ravaged by addiction to harder drugs, such a scenario has occurred during prohibition. If illegal marijuana has given birth to organized crime and all sorts of personal hell, what do we have to lose by trying a legalization/regulation/taxation approach? We have nothing at all to lose — not even our sense of humour, as demonstrated by those cops in Seattle on the weekend. Among the “do’s” and “don’ts” on those bags of Doritos was a very relevant “do”: “Do listen to Dark Side of the Moon at a reasonable volume.” Christopher Foulds is editor of Kamloops This Week.

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

HERALD QUESTION OF THE WEEK

To vote, go online to merrittherald.com

Are your kids ready to go back to school?

PREVIOUS QUESTION Do you think B.C. liquor laws need to be reformed? YES: 85% NO: 15%

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.

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8 • THURSDAY, August 29, 2013

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Earthquake raises emergency preparedness question On Friday, Aug. 23 at 9:26 p.m., the city of Merritt experienced a 2.6 magnitude earthquake. If it had been worse, would you have been prepared? During the shaking If indoors, stay there. Drop, cover and hold. Get under a desk or table and hang on. Alternately, you can stand in an archway or corner. If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and power lines. If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Get under a table. Do not use the elevators. If driving, pull your car to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses or power lines. Remain inside until the shaking is over. If in a crowded

public place, do not rush for the doors. Move away from display shelves containing objects that may fall. In all instances, drop, cover and hold; protect your head as much as possible. Personal preparedness Seventy-two hours: is your family prepared? During an emergency, you and your family could be on your own for an extended period of time. Emergency services may not be readily available as increasing demands are placed on responders. It may take emergency workers some time to get to you as they help those in most critical need. Basic items you will need to survive for 72 hours • Water: at least two litres of water per per-

son per day (including small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order) • Food: that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (remember to replace the food and water once a year) • Manual can opener • Flashlight and batteries • Candles and matches or lighter (remember to place candles in sturdy containers and to put them out before going to sleep) • Battery-powered or wind-up radio (and extra batteries) • First aid kit • Special items such as prescription medications, infant formula and equipment for people with disabilities • Extra keys for your car and house • Some cash in smaller bills, such as

$10 bills (traveller’s cheques are also useful) and change for pay phones • A copy of your emergency plan including contact information Recommended additional kit supplies It is always a good idea to have extra supplies on hand. Here are some recommendations: • A change of clothing and footwear for each household member • Sleeping bag or warm (foil) blanket for each household member • A whistle (in case you need to attract attention) • Garbage bags for personal sanitation • Toilet paper and other personal care supplies • Safety gloves • Basic tools (ham-

City starts trail construction The City of Merritt has started construction on a multi-use trail that links existing segments of the Coldwater River Trail with the network along Voght Park. The trail connection creates a more contiguous network through to the western entrance of the city at the former Kettle Valley Railway grade. The construction of this multi-use trail is outlined in the City of Merritt’s Official Community Plan, which includes a desire to have more opportunities for active transportation by connecting existing trail networks and identifying future trail connections. For more information, contact A proposed continuation of the Coldwater River Trail along Main Street at Voght Park is city hall at 378-4224. becoming a reality this week. Submitted

Next council meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013 Council agendas and minutes at www.merritt.ca

mer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, fasteners, work gloves) • Small fuel-driven stove and fuel (follow manufacturer’s directions and store properly) • Two additional litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning

Mayor’s DROP IN SESSION WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 11 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Community Room Downstairs at City Hall.

Come down and meet the Mayor. This is your opportunity to bring forth ideas on how we can make Merritt a better place to live and do business, ask questions about something you don’t understand or if something has transpired that you have not received a proper resolution with.

Merritt ACTIVITIES: Week of Aug 26, 2013

Ê Sidewalk Grinding Ê Water System Repairs Ê Crack Sealing Ê Sewer Flushing g www.merritt.ca

•

250-378-4224

SANITARY SEWER FLUSHING The City of Merritt Public Works Department would like to remind residents that it is that time of year again for our annual maintenance program for sewer Áushing and camera work. We apologize for any inconvenience and your patience is greatly appreciated. If you have had any problems with your toilet bubbling up in the past it is recommended that you place a towel or saran wrap over your bowl and put the lid down. Also, if you experience any foul smelling odour it is advised to run a little water through the household’s sinks and bathtubs.

Sector 4 Black line indicates area being worked in. Flushing will begin July 29 and continue until the Àrst week in September.

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

THURSDAY, August 29, 2013 • 9

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

New financial manager takes seat at city hall

God

the Word, the World

By Michael Potestio THE HERALD

The shoes of former Financial Services Manager Pat Sibilleau have been filled, and the man stepping into her recently-vacated position is Ken Ostraat. Ostraat comes to Merritt from Summerland, where he served as Director of Finance, a position similar to that of a financial services manager. Ostraat told the Herald he came to Merritt because he didn’t want to move too far away from Summerland and wanted to do something different. “Merritt just turned out to be the perfect spot for me right now,” Ostraat said. He said there were other job opportunities for him but this region is where he wanted to stay. “There were other opportunities, especially over on Vancouver Island, and I didn’t want to go over there at all. Even the Lower Mainland, that’s totally out to lunch as far as I’m concerned,” Ostraat said, noting he was searching for a place in the Interior and found the job in Merritt. Since moving to the city and starting his job just over a week ago, Ostraat has been getting himself acquainted with the job and new surroundings. However, it’s not totally new territory to Ostraat. He said he has frequented the Merritt area to go fishing and already has plans to hit the lakes with the rod and reel again. Ostraat graduated from Simon Fraser University with a degree in commerce in 1979. He received his chartered accountant designation in 1983 while working for a national accounting firm in the B.C. Interior. While there, he worked on a number of local government

is Saturday?” She was a part of a Sabbath keeping group. The congregation did what any intelligent one would do, and went right to the Bible for an answer. They found that the seventh day is the Sabbath. They started to keep it, and shared what they had found with the other groups. They kept sharing it with their farmer friends, and their numbers continued to grow. Eventually they decided to have a convention for all who could come together. There, they went through all the truths they’d found in the Word. Now that they had the Bible truths all sorted out, they realized that they needed to organize their company, their church. They started to look for a name. When they had gathered together proposals for the name, they reviewed them, and decided to call themselves the Seventh Day Adventists. The name says that they keep the seventh day and look for the coming of Jesus. The year 1863 was the start. They were not reformed from anyone else but were founded on the Word of God.

Ellen, a girl Ellen Ell i l iin n her h later l t tteens eens who ho rea really loved Jesus was also among the ones who were disappointed. She married a man, James White, who also loved Jesus. They were part of a group that were praying and studying the Word of God. To discover what the word was telling them, they studied one whole topic or truth at one time. When they thought they had seen all the evidence, they shared what they felt the Word was saying. The Lord spoke to young Ellen in a vision and told her that what these men had found is Bible truth. This was a real boost to their studies. The truth is in His word. He wants us to Ànd it for ourselves, and not get it second hand from anyone else. There was more than one group. Many of them were small farmers. As they found truth, they would share it with the others by letters. They would share it with those who had no group, and their numbers slowly increased. They were worshiping on Sunday, as all churches did. One Sunday, a lady came to their service. She asked, “Why do you worship on Sunday when the seventh day Sabbath

reporter@merrittherald.com

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Ken Ostraat is the City of Merritt’s new financial services manager. Submitted

audits and obtained a significant amount of experience in local government accounting and management. In 1992, Ostraat started with the District of Summerland as the Director of Finance. While working at the district, Ostraat obtained his diploma in public sector man-

agement from the University of Victoria. Ostraat acted as the chief administrative officer for the District of Summerland on three separate occasions while the district was looking for a replacement. Despite being here just a short while, Ostraat said he’s seen

a very committed city staff. “That’s the one thing that I’ll say about this municipality: all the workers are very, very dedicated and they’re a pleasure to talk to,” Ostraat said. Ostraat said he’s happy to answer any questions the public might have for him.

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10 • THURSDAY, August 29, 2013

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Hunting season approaching OTHMAR VOHRINGER The OUTDOORSMAN The days are still hot but the evenings and early mornings are getting cool. It’s a sign that the dog days of summer are over. Fall is, for several reasons, my favourite time of the year. I like the cooler temperatures but there is something else that I have been waiting and preparing for, for several months now: hunting season! It opens with 10 days for bowhunting on Sept. 1 and from Sept. 10, it’s open for all other hunters too. The closer the hunting season comes, the more impatient I grow and when that day finally arrives, I am awake long before the alarm clock goes off. Hunting is much more to me than just a recreational activity or a hobby. Hunting is a big part of who we are. It’s part of our identity, if you will. You never hear a golfer say, “I am a golfer” or see one walking around town in a golfing outfit. Hunters are different in that they often will say, “I am a hunter.” As part of that identity, hunters often dress in their camouflage outfits throughout the year and decorate their vehicles with huntingrelated stickers. Why is that so? Hunting is not the simplistic and often derogatory view of going out to kill an animal. It’s about the whole experience of returning to nature in its truest sense. It’s about our primordial instincts being challenged outside the constraints and comforts of modern society. In the forests, fields,

and plains we connect with the very roots of humankind that go back to the first time we walked upright on this earth and learned how to capture, kill, and eat the animals that sustained us and made us what we are today. Being a hunter is also being part of a large brotherhood and a growing sisterhood. No matter where you are in the world, or on the Internet, it will not take you very long to get acquainted with other like-minded people. Some hunters, like myself, have an involvement that goes well beyond the practice of hunting. We also spend many additional hours and days writing about our favourite pastime for one or more of the many hunting magazines that are on the market. We travel to seminar engagements at relevant trade shows to share our knowledge and understanding of the many aspects of hunting. It has to be said that no other sport or recreational activity has so many dedicated magazines, television shows and marketing events. At last count, North America airs weekly over 160 different hunting shows on dedicated outdoor sports channels and on regular TV channels. When I said earlier that hunting is a lifestyle, it is also because hunters do far more than just hunt. Hunters are also some of the most dedicated wildlife and habitat conservationists you will ever encounter, spending millions of dollars and many hours on volunteer work in one or more of the many wildlife conservation organizations. With all that in mind, I wish every hunter a safe and successful hunting season. Enjoy, respect and share the bounty our great land has to offer.

A heartfelt

Thank You

The Merritt Library extends a heartfelt thank-you to the following businesses and individuals who graciously contributed to the Summer Reading Club. Your support beneÀted children in the community of Merritt and surrounding areas and shows your commitment to children’s success.

• • • •

Black’s Pharmacy Home Hardware Starbucks Brambles Bakery

• Pharmasave • Coopers

Hunting enthusiasts are gearing up for another season that begins in September.

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

To learn more visit BCWildfire.ca

THURSDAY, August. 29, 2013 • 11

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS THE REGION

Two choices for Logan Lake fire hall location

AND THE AWARD GOES TO... Merritt Secondary School principal Bill Lawrence presents former student Amy Pozzobon with the Governor General’s Award for achieving the highest cumulative average over Grades 11 and 12. Pozzobon will continue her education in the bachelor of science program at Thompson Rivers University where she plans to take pre-requisite courses for veterinary school in Saskatoon to work with large animals. Emily Wessel/Herald

The District of Logan Lake is holding a public information session on the new location of its fire hall on Sept. 3. There are two potential sites for the new hall and members of the public are invited to share their input. Members of council, the district’s fire chief, and the hall architect will be available to answer questions and provide information regarding the new sites. Information packages will also be available from the District of Logan Lake office. The meeting takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. in the fire hall training room. People have until Sept. 20 to submit their choice of new location.

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LITERACY MERRITT & N I CO L A VA L L E Y SO CI ET Y WE ARE SEARCHING FOR SENIOR & COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS FOR OUR LITERACY PROGRAMS Help children learn the love of reading in the One to One Reading Program. Help sort, label and/or deliver free books to our Bright Red Bookshelves in Merritt & the Nicola Valley, or let us know where you would like to help with community literacy.

Find us on Facebook at Literacy Merritt

12 • THURSDAY, August 29, 2013

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NICOLA VALLEY NEWS

Explaining prorogation DAN ALBAS View from the HILL

PAYING IT FORWARD The Robin Hood Security team donated a motorized scooter to Warren Flick (centre) with funds they collected from attending city alarm calls. The crew said they pooled the money together from the calls with a plan to give it back to the community somehow, and this is their first donation, but it’s something they all said they’d like to keep up. Emily Wessel/Herald

The most discussed topic to arise this week is the announcement that the House of Commons will be prorogued and reconvening in October instead of midSeptember as the fixed parliamentary calendar was originally set for. Prorogation is one of the more interesting and also misunderstood of all of the various procedures regarding parliamentary affairs. What is a prorogation? In essence, each “session” of Parliament is not unlike a chapter in a book. Much as each chapter will have a beginning and an end,

so too will a session of Parliament. Prorogation is officially defined as the ending of a session of Parliament. In this case, the first session of the 41st Parliament will come to a close and when the House reconvenes in October there will be a throne speech, which is the parliamentary tradition for opening a new

session of Parliament as the government outlines the direction and agenda of the coming session. In this instance, that will be the second session of the 41st Parliament. Although some will try to suggest that the parliamentary act of prorogation is an unusual or uncommon one, in fact the opposite is true. Looking back at all 41 of our elected Parlia-

ments and beginning with our first Parliament in 1867, there have only been five Parliaments that did not have two or more sessions. In fact, many Parliaments had three or more sessions with some being as many as five, six and even seven sessions within the duration of an elected Parliament.

See ‘MPs’ Page 17

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

250-378-6166 – TF 1-877-841-2100

www.movingrealestate.ca August 29th - September 11th , 2013

FEATURE HOME

EXQUISITE RANCHER 1655 CHESTNUT AVENUE Very nice 3 year old rancher with fenced backyard. Features 3 bedrooms with ensuite and W/I closet in large master bedroom. Fully open concept with great kitchen. Entire home is tastefully finished and equipped with good appliances including central A/C & vac. Priced to sell. #2104

LOCATION & QUALITY

YOU WON’T BELIEVE IT

NEW

$319,300 LARGE SHOP

OPPORTUNITY

NEW

SPENCES BRIDGE

Located in a safe, upscale, family oriented neighbourhood. 3 bedrms up, full ensuite, walk-in access from garage, bright spacious kitchen, sunken living rm w/vaulted ceilings. Large deck. Inlaw suite.

This home has been totally renovated & is tastefully decorated. 4 bedrms, 2 baths plus sunroom, custom kitchen w/granite counters. Incredible private oasis backyard with water features & patio.

Great corner lot on a quiet street with plenty of room to build a shop. This 2 bedroom home is awaiting your ideas. Home is in need of some TLC but is priced accordingly.

Excellent starter home in Lower Nicola with 2 bedrms, 1152 sq.ft. gas F/P, all on 0.72 acres with detached 48x48 shop & drilled well. Flat property with easy access. Don’t miss this!

3 bedrm, 2 bath double wide with open concept, large living rm, kitchen/dining room, on its own 0.17 acre lot close to the Thompson River, famous for salmon & steelhead fishing.

#2096

#2097

#2098

#2099

#2101

$419,000 HALF DUPLEX

$279,000 INCREDIBLE VALUE

$99,900

$169,000 ROOM FOR SHOP

UNIQUE HERITAGE HOME

NEW

ATTENTION INVESTORS!!

Beautifully renovated 3 bedrm, 2 storey, half duplex with 1 bedrm inlaw suite. Updates include new flooring throughout, paint, moldings, interior doors, kitchen countertops & all 3 baths.

3 bedrms up and a 2 bedrm suite down, on 0.19 acre corner lot. Large flat yard, fenced in rear and mature cedars along border. On a family friendly street, perfect for young family.

Nice end unit townhome with a bigger yard & quieter location. Tastefully decorated, 3 bedrms plus play rm/office up, 3 pce ensuite. Main floor has open floor plan with kitchen/dining & living rm plus laundry & 2 pce bath.

Character 3 bedrm home on 0.31 acre fenced lot with room for shop and is close to schools. New kitchen counters & cabinet, new flooring in bathrm & kitchen. Single carport.

#2102

#1957

#2105

#2036

$209,000 COUNTRY LIVING

$219,900 WELL MAINTAINED

ED C U RED

$289,900

SPOTLESS RANCHER

$194,000

GORGEOUS INSIDE & OUT

CED U D RE

Great family home on 1.99 acres, approx. 20 mins. from Merritt. Treed site with room for your toys. Home has 3 bedrms 2.5 baths, open design kitchen, oak HW floors, huge rec.rm down, central A/C & more.

2 bedrm mobile with addition in one of the nicest parks. One bedrm at each end with kitchen eating area & living rm in the center. Addition has large enclosed porch and a family rm. Has covered patio.

Spacious one level, 2 bedrm home with den or 3rd bedrm and a detached shop in quiet neighbourhood. Has 2 master bedrms with their own ensuites. Huge covered deck and a detached shop with concrete floor.

5 bedrm home on fully manicured, large corner lot. Features HW flooring throughout with ceramic tile in kitchen & baths. Large pantry in kitchen, 5 pce ensuite with W/I closet, fully fin. bsmt with sep. entrance.

#1922

#1967

#1988

#1759

$275,000

$74,500

SPIUS CREEK ESTATES

$99,500

$246,300

NOW is the time to be buying. With the numerous projects on the go in the Merritt area, rentals are in great demand.

Let us show you the opportunities waiting for you!

$455,000

Grandview Heights

From 9.8 to 17 Acres

COLDWATER HILLS APPROX. 10 ACRE LOTS

LIMITED TIME PRICE INCENTIVE

Prices starting at $199,000

Country living at its best! These 9 properties are located approx. 15 mins. from Merritt in the beautiful Sunshine Valley. A Phase 1 has been completed and a water report is available. 4 lots are waterfront, all have stunning views of the valley. Area offers swimming, biking, canoeing, horseback riding,motorcycling & more.

GST is applicable

#2000

RESIDENTIAL VIEW LOTS Prices Starting at $85,000 + GST Fully serviced residential lots with fantastic views of the Nicola Valley and surrounding mountains. Close to shopping and college. Start building your dream home today! #1726

Prices Starting at $129,000 + GST Beautiful 10 +/- acre parcel with gorgeous views of the Coldwater River, just 10 minutes from Merritt. Power at lot line & many lots have pre-approved building & septic sites. Some lots have wells, but all have a gov’t required hydrology study to assure Buyers of ample domestic water. #1442.

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

14 • THURSDAY,

August 29, 2013

THURSDAY, August 29, 2013 • 15

www.merrittherald.com

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

Lana McPharlane 315-3748

Don Gossoo Managing Broker

Don Ward 315-3503

Ray Thompson 315-3377

Trista Wills 378-7767

Brad Yakimchuk Personal Real Estate Corporation

315-3043

#102 - 2840 Voght St., Merritt, BC • www.movingrealestate.ca

Moving Real Estate BC Ltd. DESIGN & QUALITY

250-378-6166 • Fax: 378-4344 or Toll Free: 1-877-841-2100

Janis Post 315-3672

FULLY FENCED YARD

IN LOWER NICOLA

INVESTORS

PRIVATE OASIS

NEW

HUGE SHOP

OPPORTUNITY

NEW

SPENCES BRIDGE

NEW

HALF DUPLEX

Moving Real Estate BC Ltd.

COMPLETELY RENOVATED

D L O S

NEW

EXQUISITE RANCHER

NEW

Spacious 3 bedrm home with 4 pce ensuite, bright kitchen, sunken living rm with vaulted ceiling & gas F/P, large sundeck & huge rec.rm in bsmt plus 1 bedrm inlaw suite.

Nice family home in quiet cul de sac with fully fenced yard, fruit trees, lots of storage, carport & RV parking. 3 bedrms up, 2 down, bright kitchen with eating area, rec.rm & workshop area down.

2009 mobile in Lower Nicola MH Park, one of the nicest parks in the area. 2 bedrm home with open design kitchen/living room. Hardi-plank siding, 2x6 construction. Great home for retiree or first time buyer.

Totally renovated home, tastefully decorated, 4 bedrms, 2 baths plus sunroom, custom kitchen with granite counters, fantastic bathrm with high end fixtures. Incredible backyard with water features.

Great opportunity to own a 1 bedroom apartment in Merritt. Very affordable strata unit close to store & transportation. Why rent when you could own! $3,000 bonus to buyer upon completion.

Great corner lot on a quiet street with plenty of room to build a shop. This 2 bedroom home is awaiting your ideas. Home is in need of some TLC but is priced accordingly.

Excellent starter home in Lower Nicola on 0.72 acre lot with 48x48 shop. Home has 2 bedrms, 1152 sq.ft. gas fireplace. A work in progress but the neighbourhood but the results can be fantastic.

3 bedrm, 2 bath double wide on its own 0.17 acre lot with fruit trees & garden area. Great retreat close to the famous Thompson River known for salmon & steelhead fishing.

Beautifully renovated 3 bedrm, 2 storey, Half duplex with 1 bedrm inlaw suite. Updates include new flooring throughout, paint, moldings, interior doors, kitchen counters & 3 renovated baths.

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

Very nice 3 yr old rancher with fenced backyard. 3 bedrooms, ensuite and W/I closet in large master bedrm, fully open concept with great kitchen. Tastefully finished and equipped with good appliances.

#2096

#2086

#2090

#2097

#2089

#2098

#2099

#2101

#2102

#1947

#2104

$419,000

INCREDIBLE VALUE

$227,000

MOBILE WITH ADDITION

$71,900

$279,000

IMMACULATE DUPLEX

$65,000 DETACHED SHOP

LARGE DUPLEX

$99,900

UNBELIEVABLE MAN CAVE

$169,000

$99,500 LARGE YARD

RENOVATED HOME

$209,000

REMARKABLE HOME

$84,900

FIRST TIME BUYERS

CED U D RE

$319,300

WELL MAINTAINED

D SOL !! W E N

3 bedrms up plus 2 bedrm legal suite down, on 0.19 acre corner lot. Perfect for young family looking for a mortgage helper or an investor. Easy walk to bus and school. Fenced backyard with mature cedars.

2 bedrm mobile with addition, large enclosed porch & a family room. Nice tidy yard with covered patio & close to river to dip your feet in the summer. Includes appliances.

Immaculate side by side duplex with approx. 960 sq.ft. & 2 bedrms per side. Reno’s in 2004 & 2007 include flooring, plumbing, electrical, furnaces, HW tanks & Mill Creek kitchen & both baths. Has detached 16x24 shop.garage.

Side by side duplex, close to shopping & amenities. Has 1740 sq.ft., 4 bedrms & 3 baths per side. Front unit has new carpets, flooring & some paint. Back unit has long term tenant. 2 storage units.

Unique modern open floor plan, 4 bedrms up with master suite with vaulted ceilings, soaker tub & WI closet, bright kitchen & family rm. Has double plus detached 26x26 shop & RV parking.

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

4 bedrm rancher with fully finished basement and fantastic valley views. Reno’s include new Mill Creek kitchen, 2 new baths, new furnace & HW tank, newer windows & large back deck. RV parking.

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

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

Cozy 2 bedrm home in good area, close to downtown. Home has had upgrades over the past few years – metal roof, insulation, flooring, light fixtures, countertops & paint.

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

#1957

#1967

#2049

#2026

#1993

#1998

#2051

#1921

#1861

#2014

#1977

$219,900

$74,500

$298,500

$299,900

$415,000

$479,900

$370,000

$184,900

$395,000

$165,000

$269,999

SPOTLESS HOME

NEW BENCH HOME

WALK TO AMENITIES

ON HALF ACRE LOT

MANICURED LOT

START OR RETIRE HERE

SUN VALLEY COURT

BEAUTIFUL YARD

IN QUIET CUL DE SAC

REVENUE FOURPLEX

WHY RENT?

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

New 3 bedrm home with gorgeous views of the valley. Home has open concept design, deluxe kitchen, security system. Water reservoir tax has been paid. Home Warranty. Seller will pay GST.

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

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

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

This rancher features 3 bedrms, private yard with garden, 2 car garage & room for RV parking. Includes appliances & gas fireplace. Easy access and quality built home.

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

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

Spacious 4 bedrm home with open design, 3 pce ensuite, large back porch, huge backyard with nice sundeck and a garden area. Inlcudes 2 bedrm bsmt suite. 26x24 double garage.

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

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

#2053

#1990

#1892

#1917

#1759

#2081

#1825

#1997

#2050

#2103

#1950

$244,900

$369,000

$179,000

$515,000

$455,000

$239,000

$214,900

$429,900

$334,900

$298,000

$75,000

DETACHED SHOP

SENSATIONAL

FANTASTIC VIEWS

GREAT BENCH HOME

HAVE A BIG FAMILY?

CLOSE TO SCHOOL

FANTASTIC VIEWS

GREAT LOCATION

SPOTLESS RANCHER

FIRST TIME BUYERS

3 bedrm family home, Bavarian style home with large living room & kitchen. Has HE furnace, large rec.rm with dry bar. Backyard has detached garage/ shop, perfect for handyman. Mountain Views off covered deck in back.

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

This Bench home has 3 bedrms on the main & 1 in bsmt. Laminate floors, open kitchen with all appl. Great views from the sundeck, big rec.rm in bsmt & workshop. Close to school.

Cozy & impressive home with entry way with oak floors & Victorian front doors & stained glass windows, bathrms refurbished with vintage tubs. Geothermal heating, 4 bedrms, 3 baths.

Completely renovated 4 bedrm home with new kitchen, flooring, new bathrms up & down, extra spacious floor plan with open concept living. Large lot, covered carport, RV parking.

Perfect for large family with 4 bedroom plus an additional 2 bedrm inlaw suite, den & play roo. Nice fenced yard for children or pets. Lane access. Community parks are close by.

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

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

3 bedrms on the main, possible 4th down. Kitchen is bright & cheery with new counters & cabinets. Laminate & tile floors. Fully fin. bsmt with big family rm, office & storage.

One level home with 2 master bedrms + den & office (or 3rd bedrm). Each bedrm has its own ensuite. Has 536 sq.ft. covered deck and 20x16 detached shop with concrete floors.

3 bedrm character home, close to school on 0.31 acre lot, fenced with room for shop. Master bedrm on main & 2 up. New kitchen counters & cabinets, new flooring in bathrm & kitchen.

#2080

#1863

#1978

#2015

#2038

#2023

#2079

#1836

#2035

#1988

#2036

$234,900

$549,900

$279,900

$499,000

$339,000

$289,000

$269,900

$314,900

$189,000

$246,300

$194,000

ROOM FOR SHOP

CLOSE TO SCHOOLS

BEAUTIFUL HERITAGE HOME

WHY RENT

NEW RANCHER

CLOSE TO SCHOOLS

QUIET CUL DE SAC

NEW RANCHER

RIVERFRONT PROPERTY

EXTRA HALF LOT

OPPORTUNITY

Nice family home with 3 bedrms on the main, large kitchen and living room. Has a full bsmt including inlaw suite with 1 bedrm & kitchen. Lots of storage, lane access & room for garage or shop.

Large family home in good area, close to schools with 3 bedrms up and 2 bedrm inlaw suite on ground level. New paint & flooring on main. HW radiant heat with new boiler in 2009. Large fenced backyard.

Beautifully finished 2 bdrm heritage home on 0.25 acre lot with new carport. Home has been completely restored including new windows, roof, kitchen & bathrm. 9 ½ ft ceilings, new plumbing

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

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

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

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

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

Executive 3 bedrm rancher on immaculate ½ acre lot backing onto Nicola River. Features 3 bedrms, 2 baths, 1900+ sq.ft. with maple HW, ceramic tile & large 475 sq.ft. covered deck.

Perfect for large family with 4 bedrms, 2.5 baths, stainless steel appliances, BI vac, A/C. Great yard with patio gazebo, UG & drip irrigation, double garage and extra parking on 1.5 lots.

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

#2018

#2052

#2034

#2043

#2017

#2010

#1963

#2031

#2022

#2100

#2044

$229,000

$329,000

$249,000

$89,900

$240,000

$289,000

$295,000

$369,900

$439,000

QUIET NEIGHBOURHOOD

HAS WORKSHOP

OPPORTUNITY

EXECUTIVE HOME

START OR RETIRE HERE

LARGE FAMILY HOME

INVESTMENT

CURB APPEAL

AMAZING YARD

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

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

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

Spacious home with gourmet chef’s kitchen & nook, Maple cabinets, formal dining, den & family rm with glass doors to partially covered deck to enjoy the views, 5 bedrms & 3.5 baths

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

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

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

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

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

#1671

#1905

#1995

#2027

#2016

#1970

#1982

#1960

#2013

$329,000

SPECTACULAR VIEWS

$229,900 QUIET SETTING

$299,000

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

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

Lush & green 19,500 sq.ft. lot in the city. Fruit trees & vegetable garden with nicelymanicured lawn. 2 bedrm on main plus 2 in bsmt. Has cold storage for canning. New siding & windows.

#2091

#2024

#2040

$178,000

$187,900

GARDENERS DELIGHT

D L O S $429,000

$509,900

$227,000

$334,900 IN LOWER NICOLA

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS & COLOUR PHOTOS.

$169,900

INVESTMENT PROPERTY

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

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

#2088

#1951

$275,900

$177,000

$75,000

$319,000

$389,000

Thinking of buying? Call us for the current market conditions.

GORGEOUS APARTMENT

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

#2028 FIRST TIME BUYERS

ONLY CENTURY 21 Offers Air Miles

$527,400

D SOL

$144,900

OPPORTUNITY

D L O S

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

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

#2012

#1906

$94,999

$50,000

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