April 9 - 2026 by Merritt Herald

PHOTO/KASSIDY

URGENT CALLOUT FOR FOSTER FAMILIES

TYLER REIS-SANFORD

Contributed Interior Community Services (ICS) is now urgently looking for foster caregivers in Merritt and surrounding areas.

The agency partners with local organizations like Scw’exmx Child and Family Services to support foster caregivers and match them with children in need within the community.

“It seems to be a bit of a dying trend, I’m not sure why,” said Renata Bonthoux, a network facilitator who works for ICS and with local support agencies.

“There isn’t a lot of awareness out there… once you’re in it you know all about it, but if you’re not in that world, it’s completely foreign

to you.”

The ICS provides families with access to resource workers, direct training, support and specialized education for barriers like attachment, trauma and prenatally exposed infants. They also help families deal with behaviour navigation, and guide families to funding when it’s available, something Bonthoux says can be “tricky”.

“The goal of fostering is always to support families in raising their children,” said Bonthoux. “What we want is to raise awareness and to recruit new foster parents to join the amazing foster community that already exists.”

Bonthoux says that there are many misconceptions about how the foster care

system works in B.C., and that community members often aren’t aware of how many options there are to provide help to families and children in the foster system.

ICS is currently looking for full time foster care givers, but is also on the look out for respite and relief care givers as well. Respite care givers are part time support roles that offer families a few days or weekends a month to help prevent families from separating. Relief roles are a similar commitment according to Bonthoux, but are designed to help foster families who may need that little extra bit of support.

“I think one of the biggest myths is that people get into fostering for money. Our

caregivers get into becoming a foster parent because they want to support families and they want to support children. It isn’t about the money, it’s about the care and the connection and the support,” said Bonthoux. “While caregiving for children who have experienced trauma is one of the most difficult things that folks do, it is also one of the most rewarding.”

For more information on becoming a foster care giver, or how to support foster families in Merritt, visit the ICS website, reach out to Scw’exmx Child and Family Services, or reach out to Renata Bonthoux directly via email at bonthoux@ interiorcommunityservices.bc.ca.

AN EASTER BUNNY IN CENTRAL PARK

The Easter Bunny made a visit to Merritt on April 4, bringing chocolate

BANK STABILIZATION ONGOING AT BRIDGE

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

More than five years later, work continues on recovery from the Nov. 2021 flood that completely destroyed Merritt’s Middlesboro Bridge.

The Merritt Flood Mitigation team has recently taken on one of the most significant portions of the ongoing project, providing stabilization to the banks of the

Coldwater River along Fir Road and re-routing the river away from the subdivision.

Conducted by Rock Solid Industries, the work is scheduled to be completed by fall of 2026, with spring planting also already in progress.

By the end of spring, new channel construction adjacent to the existing channel (see photo) is expected to be completed, as well as

installation of woody debris structures to support habitat growth and stability.

By summer, the Flood Mitigation Team is expecting to work on installing riprap berm and flow detectors, while in the fall, work will focus on final vegetation installation as well as site restoration.

Funding the project is B.C.’s Ministry of Environment and Parks (ENV) in partnership with

the City of Merritt. Much of the southern bank of the Coldwater River on the west side of Middlesboro Bridge was washed away in the 2021 flood, encroaching onto residential properties sitting at the top of the bank.

To keep up-todate with the project and for more information, check out www. flood.merritt.ca/ project/fir.

When: April 10, 2027 from 10:00AM–7:00PM

• Free coffee, tea, and light refreshments all day

• Booths, resources, and door prizes

• Guest speakers

• Community dinner at 5:30PM Questions?

Call (250) 378-9745 and ask for Amber.

PHOTO/JAKE COURTEPATTE

Construction work is seen on the west side of Middlesboro Bridge, where the Coldwater River is being diverted.

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

A man found dead on the side of the highway near Merritt has sparked an investigation by B.C.’s police watchdog.

The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) is asking for witnesses to come forward after the incident on the Okanagan Connector near Iron Mountain Road on April 2, which caused the closure of the highway for several hours in what Mounties called “a police incident”.

It was just after 9:30p.m. that an RCMP officer spotted a vehicle parked on the side of Highway 97C south of Merritt. At the same time, police received an out-of-province call from a concerned family member regarding a loved one who may be in the area.

The responding officer called in backup as well as ERT, before using remote

equipment to discover the man dead on scene in the vehicle with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The IIO was notified shortly after the incident and has begun an investigation.

There are two factors that the IIO considers at the beginning of each investigation:

- If there has been an injury that meets the threshold of serious harm, as defined by the Police Act, or a death;

- If there is a connection between the serious harm/death and officer action or inaction.

If both conditions are met, the investigation will continue to examine all available evidence to determine what occurred. At the end of the investigation, the chief civilian director will consider whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that an offence may have occurred involving officers.

POLICE WATCHDOG INVESTIGATING HIGHWAY INCIDENT PENALTY INCREASE IN KAMLOOPS?

MICHAEL POTESTIO

Castanet

Distracted driving will be an issue in Kamloops until penalties are increased, potentially to include vehicle impoundment, the city’s top cop says.

The issue is a stubborn one for local police, with hundreds of tickets issued each year and little change in enforcement numbers. Kamloops Mounties wrote more than 600 distracted driving tickets in 2025.

According to Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley, the local detachment’s traffic unit has been “quite innovative” when it comes to catching texters, but police are limited in what they can do.

“There is a measured approach,” he told Castanet Kamloops. “If we have an offender that has half a dozen distracted driving offences, of course there should be stiffer penalties.”

‘Greater consequences’ needed?

During a recent meeting with Kamloops

city council, Pelley was asked if the RCMP has any plans to increase its opportunities for ticketing motorists for distracted driving.

“If we’re going to ever get a handle on the problem, that number should probably be significantly higher, indicating that we’re out there watching,” Coun.

Margot Middleton said.

Pelley said his officers have a track record of keeping local streets safe by writing lots of tickets, but he said that only goes so far.

“I’m confident they’re going to continue to do it this year until there’s legislative changes where distracted driving may result in the impoundment of your vehicle or greater consequences,” he told council.

Vehicles cannot be impounded for distracted driving unless the driver is a repeat offender or bound by a prohibition.

Distracted driving offences have been steady in Kamloops over the past four years with the exception of 2022, which can be attributed to short staffing.

Helping Seniors Navigate Their Next Move

YOU OR A LOVED ONE THINKING OF DOWNSIZING OR MOVING?

After many years in the same home, the process of selling and moving can feel overwhelming. As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) I am specially trained to help seniors and their families navigate these important transitions with patience, understanding and care

• Downsizing and preparing your home for sale

• Selling a long-time family home

• Exploring housing options for the next stage of life

• Making the moving process easier and less stressful

Merritt Real Estate Services

NICOLA VALLEY VIEWPOINT

ART-TASTIC!

MITRA: HOW DOES THE EASTER STORY END?

NARAYAN MITRA You Gotta Have Faith

Easter 2026 is over. Our Easter faith assured us last week in churches across the nation that in Christ’s resurrection, God has already overcome the power of death and evil. The old life is gone and a new life has begun – a life of gratitude and joy, a life in which the Holy Spiritt sets us free to accept ourselves and to love God and neighbours. It binds us together with all believers in the one body of Christ called the church.

During and long after Easter, every Christian believer is called to be a witness to the resurrection. We are called to go and tell. As disciples of the risen Christ, we are called to live the joy and freedom of the new creation and to share the

gospel with anyone who needs to hear it.

What happens after the Easter celebration each year depends on Christ’s believers.

God’s redemptive purpose for the world will prevail through those who answer the resurrected Christ’s call to follow Him and carry on His purpose and work.

The good news is that we are not alone to carry on the post-Easter mission of Christ.

In a broken and fearful world, the Holy Spirit gives us the courage to pray without ceasing, to witness among all peoples to Christ as Lord and Saviour, to unmask idolatries in church and culture and to work with others for justice, freedom and peace.

That’s how the Easter story continues. Giacomo Puccini, who wrote great operas including Madame Butterfly and La Boheme, was stricken with cancer in 1922. He decided to write one more opera, Turandot.

One of his students asked, “But suppose you die before you finish it?”

“Oh, my disciples will finish it,” Puccini replied confidently.

Puccini died in 1924 and his disciples did finish his last opera. Puccini’s best friend, Franco Alfano, worked from sketches left by the master to complete the opera which many consider to be his best work.

The premiere took place in Milan, Italy. Arturo

CARRY: continued on page 7

CARRY THE EASTER STORY DAILY

Toscanini, one of his best students, was the conductor.

The performance began and continued to the point at which Puccini’s work had abruptly ended. Toscanini paused and said to the audience, “This far the master wrote…and then he died.” He then picked up the baton and shouted to the audience, “But his disciples finished his music!”

As Christian believers, we are charged with the task of finishing the music, the melody, and the direction of which we can discern in the acts of God in history and in the life and teachings of Jesus. God, who in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, is making all things new and what happens next is up to us.

So let us go and tell. We are called to carry on the Easter story. God calls us to live beyond our fear of death and any leftover doubts about the reality of a resurrection life.

The women who had gathered at Jesus’ tomb on that first Easter morning were terrified and amazed. Yet they went to Galilee and saw the risen Christ. They must have proclaimed the good news to others.

Now it’s up to us to carry on the gospel story.

As Christians, we are called to take risks, to make ourselves vulnerable in love, to share with strangers, to dare to challenge unjust power. God calls us to live beyond and fears and doubts.

In the resurrection story of Jesus, God showed us His amazing life-giving power. We know the story of our life with God has a joyful ending as well. Just as Jesus went on ahead to Galilee to where the first disciples lived their everyday lives, Jesus has promised to be with us always.

We know His presence in very real ways where His story is proclaimed and where the bread and wine are shared as sign and seal of His risen presence in and among us. But we will also find Him in moments of despair or need. We don’t need to be afraid because God’s love is stronger than sin and death. Christ is alive and is in and among us – forgiving, healing, empowering and calling each of us to follow until His promised final return.

Christ is alive today, bringing hope, joy and new life, long after the annual celebration of Easter is over.

Narayan Mitra is the Pastor of Merritt Baptist Church.

CANADA CAN DO GOOD WITH GLOBAL FUND

Editor,

With the Middle East catastrophe unfolding in grim detail, it’s only natural to despair at all the death and suffering, but that makes it even more important for Canadians to focus on the good being created. Soon the World Bank will look to renew funding of the Global Financing Facility (GFF). The GFF is an amazing mechanism which works with low-income countries to turn small grants into huge returns, building communities, strengthening economies, and saving lives. And it works. While so much good has been undermined of late, here’s a chance for our federal government to set the example for other countries to follow suit with GFF funding, and prevent countless maternal and child deaths around the world.

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less.

Email letters to: newsroom@merrittherald.com.

Do you believe gaps in local services are holding back Merritt’s economic growth? QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Have your say at merrittherald.com

WEEK’S QUESTION

How do you think the 2026 wildfire season will compare to 2025?

A LOOK BACK

From the Herald archives

APRIL 7, 2015

SAGEBRUSH DELAYED

The Sagebrush golf course remains closed for the foreseeable future as golf season in the Nicola Valley begins.

Zoning issues and the search for a new owner have kept the course from opening this year.

Given the popularity of overnight visits to Sagebrush, Garnett estimates a loss of about $400,000 from not being able to open the cottages and Badlands Patio this season, the bulk of which stands to be lost in these next few months.

The process of rezoning is expected to take about six months.

Intended to be a golfing resort destination, the current owners — Four for Fore Investments Ltd. — didn’t want to simply open the golf course itself.

“We could have opened the golf course, but the owners said they weren’t willing to step back three years,” Garnett said.

“They spent three million bucks building those cottages so they could accommodate people on site, and it just wasn’t tenable for them to go back three years to when we didn’t have any cottages.”

the Coquihalla Coyotes Band Saturday, April 11 from 7:00 pm to midnight at the Elks Hall - 1702 Coldwater Ave. Cash Bar and Snacks available. Tickets available at Home Hardware or Call Barry Jackson 250-378-7064 or Gerry Kielman

– Nathaniel Poole Victoria, B.C.

Central Park Concession

To improve Police, Fire, and Ambulance response times, the City must collect accurate location and address data to update information for the new Next Generation 9‑1‑1 mapping system.

City staff will be visiting neighbourhoods, including mobile home parks and strata developments, over the next several weeks to gather this information.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work to enhance public safety.

This federally mandated project is funded through a grant from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM).

Pursuant to Sections 24, 26, and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Merritt hereby gives notice of its intention to dispose, by way of lease, a portion of the Central Park Concession building located at 2975 Voght St, Merritt, BC and legally described as PID 003-233-928, Lot A District Lot 124 Kamloops Division Yale District Plan 33194, as shown on the map to be used as a commercial concession and outside patio. The restaurant is comprised of 290 square feet of indoor space and the adjacent patio area located at the front of the building. The disposition is by way of a lease to Curbside Cookhouse for a term of four years. The total rent for the term is $51,660.

QUESTIONS? Contact Dave Zakall, Director of Community Services: dzakall@merritt.ca or 778.921.0378.

FILM SHINES LIGHT ON LOGAN LAKE FORESTS

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Environmental stewards in the Logan Lake area are looking to put their forest lands on the proverbial map.

Logan Lake Community Forest (LLCF), which provides local management of public forest lands for the benefit of Logan Lake and its surrounding communities, is the subject of a new film among it’s re-branding efforts.

“You can really tell that whenever it’s done by our Community Forest, that they really care about the community,” said District of Logan Lake CAO Wade Archambault. “They’re really invested in the community, it means a lot.”

LLCF involves Indigenous collaboration, sustainable forest management, wildfire risk reduction and responsible resource development to

m.ah a temEEwuh Solar

support recreation and wildlife in a unique manner.

“Other tenures are logging more for corporate entities, whereas we get our money from harvesting and we keep that money in the community,” said Tara Griener, fuel management specialist. “So we can reinvest in ways that major licenses just can’t or maybe aren’t prioritizing.

“It just looks so much better, after they’ve finished with it. It really doesn’t look like logging has even taken place.”

The film, in collaboration with the BC Community Forest Association (BCCFA), provides a look at the planning and treatment activities of the LLCF specific to wildfire risk reduction, and the enhancement of trails and wildlife habitat, and is part of a broader provincial-wide storytelling initiative

FORESTRY: continued on page 10

Logan BC Solar Project Limited Partnership proposes to develop the m.ah a temEEwuh Solar project, a solar power facility located 5 km north of Logan Lake, B.C. The proposed project would produce up to 208 megawatts of power with an anticipated lifespan of 40 years.

thoughts

March 17 to April 16, 2026

In-Person Open House

March 31 | 4:00-7:00 pm PT

Logan Lake Recreation Centre

31 Chartrand Avenue, Logan Lake, BC April 7 | 12:00-1:30 pm PT Online Info Session

To register, visit the link or QR code on right.

Work is done by LLCF volunteers to mitigate wildfire risk in a forest near the community of Logan Lake.

FORESTRY ABOUT MORE THAN JUST DOLLARS

: continued from page 9

showcasing community forests across British Columbia.

“Our film speaks to the heart of what we do as a community forest and allows us to share this work through storytelling,” said LLCF General Manager Randy Spyksma. “Community forestry is not just about logging; it’s about collaborating and investing in a sustainable future for the land, forests and our communities. We hope this film raises awareness about the power of community-driven forest stewardship and how it can make a real difference.”

The LLCF works with local organizations that use the land, for recreation and other purposes.

“There’s tons of recreation that goes on in the Logan Lake Community Forest,” said Griener. “We have mountain bikers, we have hikers, we have a bit of hunting in the community forest as well. In the winter months, we also have crosscountry skiing as well as snowshoeing, so there’s tons of people out on the land.”

She said this is one of the reasons to not clear-cut the local forests, alongside wildfire mitigation.

“With our large fire we had in 2021, we were definitely tested, and it showed the work that Community Forest has put in over the years. It was successful, it stood the test of time, and we’re here to prove that.”

Archambault hopes that the LLCF is here to stay after years of successful forestry stewardship.

“It’s our backyard, and it’s everybody’s backyard. So to look after it properly is keeping it there for future generations to enjoy.”

Griener echoed his sentiments.

“What the Community Forest means to me is local people being involved in decisions about your local community. Not just focusing on what the forest can give me as far as product, but more so things that are important to the community, like recreation and youth programs.”

To learn more about the LLCF visit www.llcf.ca or search for them on Facebook.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 58 (NICOLA-SIMILKAMEEN) BUDGET PLANNING PROCESS – 2026/2027 ANNUAL BUDGET

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

A public budget presentation will be made to interested stakeholders at the Merritt School Board Office and live streamed (instructions to be provided on the school district website news feed). Representatives from our rights holders, schools’ Parent Advisory Council (PAC), District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC), teacher and support staff unions, principals, and members of the public are invited to attend this meeting to review provincial funding, district projections for enrolment, as well as provide more specific information regarding the district’s annual budget. Stakeholder groups and members of the public are welcome to outline their priorities and provide input into the budget planning process during the question period. The meeting will commence at 5:00 PM.

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

First reading for the new Budget bylaw will be presented at an Open Board Meeting, May 13, 2025, 6:00 PM with second and third readings scheduled for the Open Board Meeting, June 10, 2025, 6:00 PM.

PLEASE NOTE:

Representatives from stakeholder groups or members of the public can also make a presentation to Finance Representatives in private if they so desire. Individuals or groups interested in making such a presentation must contact the Secretary Treasurer at mfriesen@sd58.bc.ca by April 15, 2025, to arrange a meeting, supported by a written submission.

Men of Mettle is more than just an event. It’s a movement and a call for the men of the Nicola Valley to rise together in strength, purpose, and brotherhood. In a culture that often encourages isolation, distraction, and surface-level living, this gathering creates space for something deeper: authentic connection, honest conversations, and a renewed sense of identity and direction.

This experience is intentionally designed to bring men from all walks of life into one room not as strangers, but as brothers. Over a shared breakfast, through meaningful conversations, and alongside local businesses and community partners, men will be reminded that they are not alone in what they carry. Through a powerful guest speaker and a dynamic panel, real stories and practical wisdom will speak directly into the challenges men face today whether in leadership, family, faith, or personal growth.

At the heart of this event is a shared mission with Tiny Sparks Foundation: to fortify and nurture family units by addressing the challenges that threaten their unity and prosperity. Together, we are committed to confronting trauma, addiction, and the hardships that impact families, while building strong community partnerships that create lasting support systems. We believe that when men are strengthened, families are restored and when families are restored, entire communities begin to thrive.

Men of Mettle is grounded in values that shape who we are and how we lead: love that shows up, intentionality in how we live, generosity toward others, honesty in our journey, and tenacity to keep going when it’s hard. This is about restoration and rebuilding, calling men back to a standard of strength deﬁned not by pride, but by humility, integrity, and responsibility. We carry a vision of a future where every family is strong, united, and equipped with the resilience and resources to ﬂourish to create a legacy of stability, wellness, and lasting connection for generations to come.

Details: Date: April 11th, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: Hall of Honour, Merritt, BC

Tickets: $40 Individual $60 for Two (Brother Package)

Door Tickets: $50 Individual | $70 for Two

Tickets available at Nicola Valley Sports and the Community Futures Office.

FILM SHINES

BASS COAST ANNOUNCES LINEUP

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

The headliners are in, and the turntables are ready to spin for Bass Coast 2026.

The yearly Merritt festival announced its full lineup last week for the July 10-13 event, headlined by Daphni, an electronic DJ project of Canadian artist Dan Snaith,

also known as Caribou.

Snaith is a former Grammy-nominated composer for Best Dance/Electronic Album under his Caribou moniker, and has been releasing projects as Daphni since as early as 2012.

Joining him is Ivy Lab, appearing as part of their farewell tour in one of their final performances as a duo, alongside

Opiou, Kahn, Bakey, Lauren Flax & the french collective Visages.

“We program for people who are genuinely curious about where dance music is going,” said Co-Founder and Music Director Andrea Graham, who also performs as The Librarian.

“These artists are leading that conversation globally, and a lot of North American

audiences haven’t experienced them yet. That’s exactly the point.” Graham and fellow co-founder Liz Thomson recently were awarded Changemaker of the Year by Women in Music Canada for their work in harm reduction during the festival. Tickets are now available at www. basscoast.ca.

As a Medical Office Assistant you will be responsible for providing administrative ensure the efficient operation of the medical office. You will support the doctors and patients through a variety of tasks related to patient care management, communication.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Medical Office Assistant Duties:

o Organize and schedule appointments.

o Update and file medical records and insurance reports.

o Assist during medical examinations and minor procedures.

o Produce and distribute correspondence memos, letters, faxes, and

o Prepare and clean treatment rooms and medical instruments.

QUALIFICATIONS:

o Experience as a Medical Office Assistant would be an asset.

o Knowledge of Office & Medical procedures.

o Excellent time management skills and ability to Mult-task and prioritize

o Social perceptiveness and service oriented.

o Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

o Strong organizational and planning skills.

o Proficiency in MS Office and patient management software.

and

to admin@schss.com or apply in person at

Hiring Electricians and Instrumentation Specialists

Indigenous Student Internship

Student Internship

Elliott Mumford Contracting Ltd. Was established in 2015, Over our 10+ years of business we have had the opportunity to take part in some incredible construction and maintenance projects. With over 50 years of combined experience in our management team our team has constructed projects throughout British Columbia, Alberta and in the Northern Territories. Our focus on relationships, client care, safety and construction technology has allowed us to work for many great clients throughout Western Canada. We take pride in having fostered an incredibly well trained team who takes pride in their work every day.

INDUSTRY TRAINING THAT WORKS

IUOE Local 115 Training Association has been a leader in industry training since 1965, preparing workers for successful careers in construction and heavy equipment operation.

• Hands-on training with real equipment

• Heavy Equipment, Crane & Road Building programs

• Year-round training opportunities

• Safety, traffic control & equipment certification courses

Training available for members and non-members.

TRAIN

ORAL HEALTH FOR ADULTS 101

Adults should maintain oral health by brushing twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting a dentist regularly (at least once a year) to prevent gum disease and cavities. A healthy, low-sugar diet, limiting alcohol, and avoiding tobacco are essential to prevent oral cancers and tooth decay.

Daily Oral Care Routine

- Brush Properly:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush all tooth surfaces twice a day, focusing on the gum line.

- Floss Daily: Clean between teeth daily to remove plaque that brushes cannot reach.

- Fluoride Use: Use fluoride toothpaste and consider fluoride rinses to strengthen enamel.

- Clean Dentures: Remove and clean dentures daily, brushing gums and the tongue.

FIVE STEPS TO GOOD ORAL HEALTH

Preventive Measures & Lifestyle

- Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups and cleanings allow dentists to detect early signs of decay, oral cancer, or gum disease.

- Dietary Choices: Limit sugary snacks and beverages to reduce decay risk.

- Tobacco Cessation: Smoking and chewing tobacco increase the risk of oral cancer and gum disease.

- Manage Dry Mouth: If medication causes dry mouth, increase water intake, use saliva substitutes, or chew sugarless gum.

Health

Connections

Good oral hygiene prevents harmful bacteria from traveling to other parts of the body. Oral health is directly linked to overall wellness, with gum disease associated with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

A commemorative sidewalk is in the works to honour Merritt’s veterans.

The initiative recently made its way in front of City Council, with discussions on both location and durability.

A project months in the making, Merritt Legion President Alphonse L’abbé first presented the idea to the city in 2025 in the hopes of seeing it come to fruition by November 11.

Councillor Wendy Charney said she has supported the idea from the beginning.

“I think we do have to honour those who have served and protect our country,” said Charney, who added that she would like to see the most durable pavement markings put in place as it provides a more cost-effective approach in the long term.

Councillor Dana Egan also said she supports the initiative, however, is wary that it sets a precedent “for all of the other groups that may want sidewalks.”

Councillor Manuel Olguin agreed, and

said he would wish for a future application process for such an initiative.

Olguin also brought up the issue of traffic and pedestrian safety. Mouland said that the intersection of Quilchena and Voght was the preferred location by the Legion, while the other location options were made available by the City for discussion.

“Safety wise, it will be fine, there’s glass bead and whatnot that is put into the paint. But yes, the ‘where’ issue is the biggest issue, especially at that location of Voght and Quilchena with the right-hand turn, which could be an issue.”

Councillor Paul Petroczi spoke up about the location, asking that the area on Quilchena across from the Legion be considered.

“As mentioned, traffic on Quilchena and Voght, that would be a lot of wear and tear. I think it would be better on Quilchena at the Legion, that’s the location I prefer.”

Egan echoed Petroczi’s thoughts, suggesting the intersection of Quilchena

and Chapman Street, just a few buildings down from the Legion.

“It’s probably going to have as much wear and tear anywhere around there, but I was thinking at that location, after the Remembrance Day services a lot of people walk from city hall and down that path and they would see it more visibly that day.”

In terms of funding, the Legion is looking into cost-sharing if the City is not willing to fund the entire project.

Councillor Adam Etchart said he believes it is important to support the veterans and that they “don’t ask for much”.

“People who have lived in the

community, I think it’s important to honour the history. So I am in favour.”

Looking at similar projects in the B.C. Interior, Mayor Mike Goetz suggested taking a look at the orange, featherfilled commemorative crosswalk near the TNRD building on busy Victoria Street in Kamloops.

“They re-paint it every two years, and when it’s time for re-painting, it is time for re-painting.”

Councillor Olguin suggested that a cost-sharing proposal be discussed with the Legion and brought back to Council at a later date. All councillors were in favour.

NICOLA VALLEY SPORTS

LOCAL RIDER WINS PROVINCIAL AWARD

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

The leader in Indigenous sporting in B.C. recently handed out some of its most prestigous awards, with one young Merrittonian as a recipient.

Sadie Stewart’s many years on horseback made the Upper Nicola Band member a recipient of the 2025 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, an annual ceremony held by B.C.’s Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I-SPARC).

“I would like to thank my family and friends and my fellow competitors for supporting me to do my best,” said Stewart, one of six regional winners from the B.C. Interior.

With 25 first place championship buckles on her belt, Stewart was the roping champion at the National Rodeo Finals as well as the polebending champion at the B.C. Juniors.

Her love and care for horses also landed her as the junior president of the Merritt Secondary School Rodeo Club.

I-SPARC, in collaboration with the Province of B.C., launched the regional nomination process in late 2025, receiving nominations from each of I-SPARC’s six regions.

Applications were open to Indigenous youth athletes 24 years and younger who are competing in performance

SENIORS INVITED TO REGISTER FOR 55+ BC GAMES

sport and demonstrating a commitment to their education, culture, and promoting healthy and active lifestyles.

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald. com

Are you 55+ and can still hang with the best of them? Or just want to improve on your active lifestyle and show off your athleticism?

Local seniors are invited to now register for the upcoming 55+ BC Games, to be held Sept. 8-12 just down the highway in Kamloops.

“The Games are a great way for seniors around the province to gather and participate in activities with other seniors,” said Colleen

Regional recipients automatically serve as nominees for the provincial awards, which will be announced later this year.

Kaminski with the Merritt Senior Citizens Association. “A myriad of sports and other

games are offered - including swimming, carpet bowling, cribbage, cornhole, ice

curling, bowling, and horseshoes, to name a few.”

Registration is now open until June 30, with fees set at $20 for membership as well as $100 to register as a participant. All registration is done virtually. Those interested can contact their Zone 8 representative at zone8info@55plusbcgames.org, or contact Colleen at the Merritt Seniors Citizen Association at msca2@ telus.net or 250-378-3763.

PHOTO/I-SPARC

Upper Nicola Band’s Sadie Stewart was named a regional recipient of the Premier’s Award for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.

LOGAN LAKE GOLF COURSE GOES MUNICIPAL

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Meadow Creek Golf Club in Logan Lake has a new owner, with the District assuming responsibility of the now municipal golf course.

Logan Lake officials made the announcement earlier this month that as of March 31, the Meadow Creek Golf Club has formally voted to dissolve its lease agreement with the District and return all golf course lands and assets to municipal ownership.

“As we move through increasingly challenging times, it has become more difficult for volunteer organizations to remain viable in the face of rising costs,” said Logan Lake Mayor Robin Smith. “We are grateful for the many years of dedication from the Meadow Creek Golf Club and its volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to maintain this valued community asset.

“The District of Logan Lake is optimistic about building on that foundation and further

developing the course as a key part of our recreational planning—one that continues to support those who live, work, and play in Logan Lake.”

Described as one of Logan Lake’s ‘most cherished recreational assets’, the club has been a source of pride in the area for almost four decades, both established and maintained by a group of dedicated volunteers.

“While the Meadow Creek Golf Club is now entering a period of dissolution, its legacy will continue to live on in every fairway, green, and memory created at the course,” reads a release from the District.

Ongoing financial issues have been a reoccurring challenge in recent years, with ending seasons in a deficit becoming a harsh reality.

Smith acknowledged the work that has been done over its 37-year history to bring Meadow Creek to where it is today.

“This transition marks both the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.”

While questions about the

future day-to-day operations of the course remain unanswered, the District acknowledged the need for a smooth transition to develop a long-term, sustainable vision for the club.

One way the District is hoping

to take advantage of the new partnership is in relation to the municipal campgrounds, where course packages can be tied into the camping experience to enhance tourism, recreation, and overall community benefit.

For now, it is expected to be business as usual for the 2026 season, with an official opening date to be announced in the coming weeks.

RUGBY COMMUNITY DAY COMING TO MERRITT

The event is open to adults and children ages four and up of all experience levels, and is separated into different age groups. The club is set to host fun rugby activities and games for all ages, introductory skill sessions led by experienced coaches and is a supportive and inclusive environment to learn about the growing rugby community.

Rugby has been a popular sport in B.C. for many years, but has seen significant growth in tandem with the success of the Canadian national team. Prior to their silver medal finish at the Rugby World Cup in 2025, the Canadian national women’s team set a North American attendance record in Ottawa when they defeated team USA in

a 42-10 rout.

Although rugby can be perceived as a violent or dangerous sport, new research from the World Rugby Sportwise Survey have revealed that while parents are concerned about injuries, 92 per cent feel that the benefits of their children playing rugby far outweigh the risks.

“The results of this survey are reassuring as the large majority of parents see the benefits of their children playing sport and aren’t stopping them from doing so in case they hurt themselves,” said Dr Colin Michie, a paediatrician at Ealing Hospital in the U.K. “With rates of inactivity among children increasing and the effects this has on health and obesity, getting children and teenagers moving has to be a priority.

Team sports such as rugby are particularly good for youngsters. They not only improve fitness but crucially develop social skills including tolerance, leadership, concentration, determination, teamwork – and, of course, how to deal graciously with success or defeat.”

B.C. has long been considered one of Canada’s strongest provinces when it comes to producing top-rate rugby talent. Current national players like Bryce Worden, Talon McMullin and the reigning World Rugby Women’s 15’s Player of the Year Sophie de Goede have all started their rugby careers in B.C.

Registration for the event is free, and can be found on the Kamloops Rugby Club Facebook page.

PHOTO/DISTRICT OF LOGAN LAKE Meadow Creek Golf Club in Logan Lake, B.C.

TYLER REIS-SANFORD Contributed

The Kamloops Rugby Club is partnering with Rugby Canada and Teck Resources Limited (Teck), an official partner of

Rugby Canada to bring rugby to Merritt this Saturday April 11.

VALLEY COMMUNITY

MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH GETS BIG BOOST

JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@merrittherald.com

Men of Merritt, rejoice - an important local program has received a significant financial boost.

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

Crossroads Community Church

2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911

Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church

2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme)

Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899

Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919

Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

St. Michael’s Anglican Church

Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary recently donated $20,000 to Nicola Family Therapy to keep it’s men’s mental health program afloat for another year.

“We would like our community to know that we are ever so grateful,” said Nicola Family Therapy’s Hailey Agar.

“Their ongoing support plays a vital role in the continuation of this essential service we provide to all Merrittonian men.”

The organization’s men’s mental health program began in 2022, thanks to a plethora of donations at the time, including that of ultrarunner

Darius Sam who ran 100km in support of Nicola Family Therapy.

“I’ve been in the anti-violence sector for 23 years, and we have support for women

and children, but we don’t have support for men,”Bishop told the Herald at the time.

According to the Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, mental health concerns in men often go unnoticed and undiagnosed due to stigma around outdated perceptions of masculinity. Over

75% of suicides in Canada involve men, and men are more likey to struggle with substance abuse issues.

Nicola Family Therapy recently moved offices, from the first floor of Merritt city hall to the corner of Quilchena Avenue and Voght Street where it is under construction.

1990 Chapman St. • 250-319-8823

Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.

Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735

Service Time every Sunday - 10 am

Somang Mission Community Church (SMC)

1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall)

Sunday Service Time: 2:30 pm • 250-280-1268

Sunday School Time: 12:15 pm

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church

1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502

Service Times: Sunday 10 am

Motion Church Merritt

Sundays 10 am

Coquihalla Middle School (2975 Clapperton Ave) www.wearemotionchurch.ca/merritt

PHOTO/NICOLA FAMILY THERAPY

A Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary representative presents Nicola Family Therapy Executive Director Sheri Bishop with a cheque for the organization’s men’s mental health program.