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INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Check out our annual feature on Indigenous Peoples Day, and the culture that surrounds it in Merritt and the Nicola Valley.
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2025
MEMORIAL CROSSWALK APPROVED
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City council gives go-ahead to share costs with local Legion branch JAKE COURTEPATTE
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A project a long time in the making to commemorate Canada’s veterans has been given the green light. The City of Merritt, alongside Royal Canadian Legion Branch 96, has approved a joint venture to create a memorial crosswalk in the downtown area. The crosswalk will be installed on the southeast side of the Chapman Street intersection with Quilchena Avenue, using durable pavement markings approved by the council. The location is different from when the proposal was first brought to council earlier this year, when it was marked for Quilchena Ave. and Voght Street. “We’re off the beaten path of a much POLICY REQUESTED: continued on page 3
PHOTO/HARIT JOSHI
Love to Dance hosted its annual spring concert at MSS earlier this month. MORE PICTURES ON www.merrittherald.com
Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other
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2 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
DRUGS, CASH, HANDGUN SEIZED IN RCMP RAID HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
Merritt RCMP have seized cash, drugs and firearms after a search warrant was executed on June 3 at a residence in the 2800 block of Granite Avenue. A day before, on June 2, Merritt RCMP in a well-coordinated effort with multiple police units, had made several arrests in the 2100 block of Quilchena Avenue following reports of threats involving a firearm. Merritt RCMP, with assistance from the South East District Emergency Response Team, were seen patrolling 2800 Granite Avenue. Three individuals were arrested at the scene. “All three were later released pending further investigation,” Merritt RCMP said in a press release. “During the execution of the warrant, officers located and seized over $7,000 cash, quantities of suspected fentanyl, cocaine, MDMA, methamphetamine,
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Overview of the illicit drugs, cash, contraband cigarettes and prohibited, unregistered handgun seized from the search warrant.
illicit cannabis, and psilocybin. Police also seized contraband cigarettes and a prohibited, unregistered handgun. The investigation remains ongoing, and charges will be recommended to the Public Prosecution Service of Canada,” the release stated. “Our officers remain committed to addressing the impacts of illicit drugs in our community,” said S/ Sgt. Joshua Roda of the Merritt RCMP. “Enforcement actions like
this are part of our continued efforts to disrupt drug trafficking and enhance public safety in Merritt.” Merritt RCMP are asking the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. If you notice significant foot traffic at a residence and suspect drug trafficking activity, please contact the Merritt RCMP at 250-3784262 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222TIPS (8477).
For registration and more information, please visit ATVBC online at atvbc.ca.
Thinking About Downsizing Your Home? Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)
MAY ‘EXCEPTIONALLY BUSY’ - MERRITT RCMP JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
The local police force continues to be inundated with more and more calls in 2026 compared to previous years, as Merritt RCMP staff Sgt. Josh Roda says that May was “once again an exceptionally busy month for policing in Merritt.” Roda provided the May policing numbers at the June 9 city council meeting. During the month, the detachment responded to 682 calls for service, representing a significant increase over the 613 calls recorded during the same period in 2025. Over the first five months of 2026, officers have responded to 2,994 calls for service, compared to 2,565 during
the same timeframe in 2025. “Based on current trends, the detachment remains on pace to experience the highest annual call volume in its history by a large margin,” said Roda. Roda attributed the growth in numbers to the higher concentration of calls in the downtown core, including assaults and property crime, the latter having more than doubled in calls since last year. Other highlights in 2026 include 30 firearm seizures, 20 mental health-related calls, 31 motor vehicle collisions, 30 assaults, and 68 targeted downtown patrols resulting in enforcement and compliance measures to move along those who were camping near businesses or causing issues within the downtown core.
MOVING AFTER MANY YEARS IN THE SAME HOME CAN FEEL OVERWHELMING. As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) specially trained to help seniors and their families navigate this transition 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
FREE Consultation for Seniors and Their Families If you or a loved one are considering a move, I would be happy to help answer all your questions.
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Guiding Seniors and Families Through Real Estate Transitions.
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 3
NICOLA VALLEY POLICY REQUESTED FOR FUTURE CROSSWALK APPROVAL GOT NEWS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
crosswalk would set a precedent. “I have trouble with it,” Mayor Neil Menard told his fellow councillors. “What if the Merritt Centennials decided they wanted the crosswalk beside the arena in red, white and black. The Rotary Club decided they wanted to have the crosswalk over here going into Rotary Park in whatever their colours are. I’m a bit worried that it may open a Pandora’s box for us.” Current Mayor Mike Goetz, a councillor at the time, expressed his support for the idea. “Well your worship, I think you hit on great idea. I would love to see the crosswalk right over here be red, white and black all the way through and I’d love to see the rotary colours,” Goetz said. “I think that would be awesome, I think it’s a great idea.” That 2018 decision was shot down 4-3 by council, with Goetz, former mayor and councillor at the time Linda Brown, and Diana Norgaa being in favour.
PHOTO/GOOGLE MAPS
The intersection of Quilchena Avenue and Chapman Street in downtown Merritt.
Three to four-year lifespan
MEMORIAL CROSSWALK: continued from page 1 busier intersection,” said City of Merritt CAO Rick Green. All were in favour of the idea at the June 9 regular city council meeting. One point of contention was the deal between the city and the local Legion for a 50/50 cost share for initial installation, with the city agreeing to contribute up to $3,500 for the cause. Both Councillor Dana Egan and Councillor Wendy Charney said that they were under the impression that the Legion would be taking on the full cost, and wondered whether this would open the door for other organizations to approach the city for cost sharing. “I support the sidewalk, we have to support our veterans and make things visible for them,” said Charney. but I’m wondering if this is now going to open us up to various other groups, and are we going to have a policy in place to not get ourselves into a pickle where we’re having every sidewalk with every group that wants to be visible.” Councillor Adam Etchart added that if there is a group out there that’s also willing to do a cost share and go through the effort that the Legion has gone through, then it is “definitely worth considering” even if there is a future policy in place.
Despite a change in location from one of Merritt’s busiest intersections, the corner of Quilchena and Chapman is considered a high traffic area as well. Staff have reviewed installation methods that would provide improved longevity and reduce ongoing maintenance requirements, with durable pavement marking productsidentified as the preferred option due to their extended service life and enhanced durability compared to conventional painted markings. It’s expected lifespan would be three to four years before replacement or significant refurbishment is required, depending on traffic volumes, weather conditions, and winter maintenance activities. Future maintenance and improvement will be discussed with the Legion and returned to council when necessary.
2018 crosswalk controversy revisited “How many groups have really come about the crosswalk idea in the last decade?,” asked Etchart. “There’s been two. One which was controversial in 2018 and now the Legion.” In March of that year, the city council at the time denied a request from the school board and members of the MSS Pride Club to install a rainbow crosswalk at the intersection of Chapman Street and Coldwater Avenuein support of the LGBTQ+ community. Some members of council expressed the concern that allowing the rainbow coloured
LAWYERS (250) 851-0100 NEW ADDRESS 406 - 121 5TH AVE KAMLOOPS, BC V2C 0M1
PHOTO/CITY OF MERRITT
A mock-up of the proposed commemorative sidewalk.
Wills & Estate Planning Proper planning now is essential to avoid complications later. For advice contact Roger Webber
Roger Webber, K.C. Lawyer roger&webbermundi.ca
4 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
PRODUCER HAS BIG PLANS FOR NICOLA VALLEY RODEO MORGAN HAMPTON Contributor
Recently, the Nicola Valley Rodeo Association (NVRA) announced that they had brought Tanner Girletz on board as a professional rodeo producer. Girletz is a third generation rodeo competitor, soon to be raising the fourth generation. His grandfather was five-time Canadian Bull Riding Champion and three time Canadian All-Around Champion. His father and uncles were also bull riders. “I’d look pretty silly at Christmas dinner if I was a golfer or something,” joked Girletz, who himself rode bulls professionally from 2004 to 2017, winning the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) Bull Riding Championship in 2006 and qualifying for the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR) nine times. “It’s been a hell of a ride,” said Girletz. “Once I retired I was looking for a way to stay involved.” Girletz initially partnered with Chad Besplug of Alpha Bull Inc. before striking out on his own, working at some of the nation’s premier rodeos such as the Red Deer Pro Rodeo, Calgary Stampede, and the CFR in Edmonton. “It’s something that I really enjoy and I like to give back to the sport that I love so much and has given me everything,” said Girletz. Girletz also has a personal connection to Merritt that helped to cement his decision to join the NVRA in making
Tanner Girletz
Merritt’s rodeo the best in the west. “Ty Pozzobon and myself were really close,” said Girletz, who remains close with Pozzobon’s parents. “Ty lived with me when he came to Alberta the first time. He lived with me for three or four years. Me and my wife always joke that he was our first-born child. So this is kind of a second home for me now out here in Merritt. When I got the call and asked if I’d be interested [in becoming NVRA rodeo producer] it was kind of a no-brainer for me. It’s something that means a lot to me, being in Ty’s hometown.” And Girletz has big plans for the Nicola Valley’s beloved rodeo happening, as always, on Labour Day weekend 2026. “The biggest thing that I like to bring is a snappy, well run performance,” said Girletz. “I can’t say too much without giving it up, but the Grand Entries both days will be cool to watch, something to see that’s a little different and out of the norm for a rodeo. I try to get everyone amped right up before the rodeo even starts.” Girletz also plans to bring in wild pony races as an intermission show where
six teams of three each, all under the age of 16, will attempt to catch and ride a “wild” pony. “It’s entertaining, it’s fun to watch these kids try to get these ponies wrestled up,” said Girletz, who also plans to bring back a fan favourite from years past for adult competitors. “I remember when I was riding bulls and coming out to Merritt, I used to love staying around at the end of the rodeo for the wild cow milking. Most people in the rodeo world used to talk about Merritt strictly for the wild cow milking. They’ve gotten away from it the last few years so we’re going to bring it back.” Girletz has arranged for the Cowboy Channel to broadcast the 2026 rodeo nationally, putting Merritt on the map in a new way within Canada’s rodeo community. “We’re going to try to build this rodeo up to what it deserves to be,” said Girletz. With respect to the Nicola Valley’s hot, dry climate and what could shape up to be an intense wildfire season, Girletz won’t be adding any pyrotechnics to the show, instead focusing on the tried and true entertainment rodeo-goers have enjoyed for decades. “It’s going to be a traditional, old school cowboy rodeo.” If you would like to get involved with the Nicola Valley Rodeo, Girletz is always open to new suggestions, and the NVRA is always in need of volunteers. You can reach out via their website at: www.nicolavalleyrodeo. com.
The Merritt High School Rodeo Club would like to say
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 5
COMPOST COULD BE IN MERRITT’S FUTURE MORGAN HAMPTON Contributor
The Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) has recently launched a community composting pilot project in partnership with the Chase and Area Family Services (CAFS) with the goal of reducing the amount of organic waste going to landfill. According to Tatiana Mueller, TNRD Waste Reduction Coordinator, “In 2024, 44 per cent of all material landfilled across the TNRD was food waste or yard waste that could have been composted. Food waste also creates methane gas in a landfill, compared to being composted where it creates healthy soil that also stores greenhouse gasses.” The TNRD’s Regional Solid Waste Management Plan has a goal of reducing the per person
annual disposal rate to 500kg by 2028. In 2025, the TNRD approached the City of Merritt regarding a similar composting pilot program. “It was determined that a future community garden planned for the downtown area would be the most viable option and we agreed to connect again once the City is farther along on that project,” explained Mueller. “Our hope is to learn from the success of the pilot in Chase and expand it to other communities like the City of Merritt.” Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz also hopes to launch a compost program in Merritt in conjunction with the newly planned community garden. “Our community garden is pretty full so we’re looking to do a second one,” explained
“We definitely want to see that happen.” — City of Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz, on turning organic waste into a viable resource Goetz. “Maybe we could work that in from there.” Goetz also hopes to feature a compost program at a nine unit apartment building that the City of Merritt is currently pursuing developing. “Once we move forward with the development the TNRD will be involved with composting on the site, that is the plan,” said Goetz. “We are working with TNRD
for future composting, I can’t give a date for when that will happen but yes, we would like to see that happen.” While the TNRD operates several Eco-Depots and transfer stations across the region, including the Lower Nicola Eco-Depot, composting programs are not planned at any of these sites for the time being. “Compost systems must be constantly maintained and designed with capacity in mind,” explained Mueller. “A compost program at either TNRD landfill capable of handling large amounts of food waste would likely need to be industrial scale, which requires space, specific permitting, and significant upfront cost. The smaller scale Community Compost systems, alongside backyard composters, offer more easily implemented
options to deal with household and garden organic waste. The TNRD’s Regional Solid Waste Management Plan encourages at-home organic waste management and small-scale community compost systems for all areas of the Region excluding the City of Kamloops, where curbside organics collection and large-scale processing facilities exist. “This is due to the cost of managing, hauling, and processing organic waste in sparsely populated areas.” While a community-wide compost program is not currently in the works, the City of Merritt is hopeful that in future organic waste can be kept from the landfill and turned into an environmentally positive resource. “We definitely want to see that happen,” Goetz said.
6 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY
VIEWPOINT
DIXON: ARE YOU READY FOR THE HEAT? BONNIE DIXON Healthy Conversations
ART-TASTIC! This week’s submission is by Zoe Andersen, grade 10. Submit your artwork to newsroom@merrittherald. com for a chance to be featured in print each week!
Summer may be arriving a little more slowly than in some years, but warmer temperatures are definitely on the way. As the heat rises, it is important to think about staying safe and comfortable, especially during periods of extreme heat. While reading through the PreparedBC summer safety information, several tips stood out as simple and practical ways to prepare. First, ask yourself: Are you at greater risk from heat? Older adults, pregnant women, infants, young children, people living with diabetes, and those with substance use disorders can be more vulnerable to heat-related illness. If you or someone you care about falls into one of these groups, taking extra precautions is especially important. Next, consider whether you can stay home during the hottest parts of the day. If your home stays reasonably cool, it may be the safest place to be. Take time now to identify the cooler areas of your house where you can relax when temperatures climb. If your home becomes too warm, know
where you can go to cool off. Libraries, community centres, parks, and shaded green spaces can provide welcome relief from the heat. Preparing your home ahead of time can also help. Blackout curtains, fans, and an indoor thermometer can help you monitor and manage indoor temperatures. Some of my favourite cooling tricks are simple and inexpensive. Keep a spray bottle of water in the refrigerator for a refreshing mist. Freeze a cool block or gel pack to place on your neck, wrists, or shoulders. Add ice cubes and electrolytes to your water to stay hydrated. A cool shower works wonders, and even soaking your feet in a pan of cool water can help lower your body temperature. Make a pitcher of spa water: in a large pitcher add sliced lemon, lime, orange and a sliced cucumber ice and fill with water. So refreshing! PS popsicles are nice in the freezer. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and look out for one another. A little preparation today can make summer much safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
#201-1951 GARCIA STREET P.O. BOX 9, MERRITT, B.C. Phone: 250-378-4241 The Merritt Herald is a Canadian-owned, locally operated community newspaper, proudly owned by K’en T’em Limited Partnership — 100% Indigenous owned — and distributed every Thursday throughout the Nicola Valley. 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.
PUBLISHER Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com
SALES REPRESENTATIVE/ OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Michele Siddall admin@merrittherald.com
EDITOR Jake Courtepatte newsroom@ merrittherald.com
This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
MITRA: THE FATHER-CHILD RELATIONSHIP NARAYAN MITRA You Gotta Have Faith
One of the great hymns, Faith of Our Fathers, celebrates not only faith in God, but also the need of patriarchal piety. A part of the hymn’s lyric goes like this: “Faith of our fathers living still/in spite of dungeon, fire, and sword/ how sweet would be their children’s fate/if they, like them, could die for Thee.” It’s a picture of the deep relationship between regard for parents and regard for the faith which they have given us. It is indeed sweet to have a faith we could die for. Sadly, those who are willing to die for their faith easily become willing to kill for it. When we try to understand what the Bible has to say about faith in the family, we should be careful to understand it in the biblical sense and not in a sense of uncritical adoration of parents or their faith. There is a trend of thought today that says that submission to parents is part of an authoritarian age, an age which has passed away. Certainly, the most conservatives of us have no desire to return to the concept of “father” in ancient Rome or Germany. In ancient Rome, the father had the right, without incurring any legal penalties whatsoever, to kill his children if they displeased him. The right of life and death was held by dads. Fortunately, this is not a Christian concept. As a matter of fact, such patriarchal authoritarianism must never be confused with piety. Let us not undermine the biblical teaching with unbiblical reactions. A reaction to excessive authoritarianism, somehow rightly, is found in the current attack upon the family. In recent times, some sociologists have been telling us that we must totally reorganize our society because children of our day know more than their parents do. It is imperative to know that the Bible does not subscribe to such total authoritarian picture of family relationships. Almost as a teen, Jesus went to the temple at 12 and
John Isaac
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Johnisaac@telus.net
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Ph: 250-378-6181 F: 250-378-6184
www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC
M E R R I T T
apparently forgot about his parents. They left for home, missed him, and started a search. When his mother finally found him back in the temple disputing with the scholars, she scolded him. Jesus’ reply, “I must be about my Father’s business,” hardly sounds like slavish submission to parents. One of the ten commandments in the Scriptures is: “Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you.” At times, in order to obey God, we may have to go against our parents’ wishes. But there is no time when we may dishonour them. Even in the case of unworthy parents there is the honour due them as persons, as those who have sacrificed something for their children even though they might have suffered wrong at their hands. It is true that St. Paul repudiated the Jewish orthodoxy of his parents for the Christian religion he embraced. But in defending himself before Governor Felix he said: “I do serve the God of our fathers ... “ His conversion was not total repudiation but a fulfilment. It’s as if he was saying: “I am really going back to the true religion of the fathers.” Many of the secular attacks on the family today are without any justification. Underlying so much of the talk we hear today is the idea that because they are young, the youth know more and they alone achieve. On the contrary, let us forget the business of the old and the young, and walk together the path of parental and filial piety. Respect is due every human being. Young people’s incapacity to accept this fact with regard to their parents will destroy their capacity to relate to anyone else. They cannot have a lousy relationship with their parents and have a good relationship with everyone else. Even the worst parent is worthy of respect as a person. Let us remember, above all, the example of Jesus because “He learned obedience from the things which He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8). When the Father asked him to die, he said, “Father, save me from this hour.” There wasn’t any voice, but He knew there was an answer to which He replied, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Narayan Mitra is the Pastor of Merritt Baptist Church.
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 7 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.
QUESTION OF THE WEEK Are you watching the FIFA World Cup? Have your say at merrittherald.com
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION Has drug addiction affected someone in your life? YES NO
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AFromLOOK BACK the Herald archives JUNE 14, 1995
ULTRASOUND MACHINE DELIVERED TO HOSPITAL Nicola Valley General Hospital has its ultrasound machine. Now it has to be paid for. The machine was used in the hospital for the first time last week and Allen Peters, department head of imaging services, said it’s going to ease the burden of patients in Merritt. “We’ve had patients wait up to three weeks for their scans in Kamloops,” Peters said. “We are hoping to reduce that time.” Before the machine arrived in Kamloops, patients had to schedule appointments then make the drive to Kamloops to have their ultrasound done. An ultrasound machine is used to check the physical condition of organs such as the liver, pancreas, pelvic area and female anatomy. At the moment, there is no one in Merritt qualified to run the machine so a technician from Kamloops will make the trip.
Merritt Citizens on Patrol is a non profit organization, that patrols at night and reports their findings to the RCMP. If you would like to volunteer, or donate snacks, drinks, or cash to the organization, they can be reached through their Facebook Page: Citizens on patrol Merritt B.C. We are also looking for a place to meet. If you know of somewhere or have a space available, we would appreciate hearing from you. Thank you! Royal LePage Merritt...Helping you is what we do!
8 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com June 18, 2026
City Of Merritt’s 2025 ANNUAL REPORT The 2025 Annual Report is available for perusal at City Hall and on-line at merritt.ca/annualreport starting June 8, 2026. The 2025 Annual Report will be considered, along with submissions and questions from the public, at the Council meeting at 6 pm on June 23, 2026. For information on how to participate or to make a submission please email: info@merritt.ca
CITY NEWS 1450 Juniper Drive
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed Liquor Licence Amendment TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 | 6:00PM |
CITY HALL | COUNCIL CHAMBERS 2185 VOGHT STREET, MERRITT, BC
Notice is hereby given that the City of Merritt Council will hold a Public Hearing during the Regular Council Meeting on June 23, 2026 at 6 pm in the Council Chamber, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC. APPLICANT: Merritt Golf and Country Club ADDRESS: 1450 Juniper Drive (outlined in red on map) PROPOSED CHANGES: To extend the liquor service hours. WANT TO PROVIDE INPUT? Sign up to speak in person at the meeting, or provide a written submission to the Corporate Officer at info@merritt.ca, or by mail to the Corporate Officer, City of Merritt, PO Box 189, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8. Please note that Council will not receive further submissions from the public concerning this application after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. It is the responsibility of the submitter to ensure that submitted materials are received prior to the close of the Public Hearing. NEED MORE INFORMATION? A copy of the proposed application and relevant material may be viewed, beginning June 11 until June 23, 2026, at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays) from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm or on-line at any time at www.merritt.ca.
4MERRITT.CA/PUBLICNOTICES
2052-B Quilchena Avenue NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed New Liquor Licence TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 | 6:00PM |
CITY HALL | COUNCIL CHAMBERS 2185 VOGHT STREET, MERRITT, BC
Notice is hereby given that the City of Merritt Council will hold a Public Hearing during the Regular Council Meeting on June 23, 2026 at 6 pm in the Council Chamber, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC. APPLICANT: Nicola Valley Tour Golf Ltd ADDRESS: 2052-B Quilchena Avenue (outlined in red on map) PROPOSED CHANGES: To permit a new liquor licence in the facility and allow for unaccompanied minors in the licensed area. WANT TO PROVIDE INPUT? Sign up to speak in person at the meeting, or provide a written submission to the Corporate Officer at info@merritt.ca, or by mail to the Corporate Officer, City of Merritt, PO Box 189, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8. Please note that Council will not receive further submissions from the public concerning this application after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. It is the responsibility of the submitter to ensure that submitted materials are received prior to the close of the Public Hearing. NEED MORE INFORMATION? A copy of the proposed application and relevant material may be viewed, beginning June 11 until June 23, 2026, at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays) from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm or on-line at any time at www.merritt.ca.
4MERRITT.CA/PUBLICNOTICES
1901 Voght Street
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed Liquor Licence Amendment TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 | 6:00PM |
CITY HALL | COUNCIL CHAMBERS 2185 VOGHT STREET, MERRITT, BC
Notice is hereby given that the City of Merritt Council will hold a Public Hearing during the Regular Council Meeting on June 23, 2026 at 6 pm in the Council Chamber, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt, BC. APPLICANT: Coldwater Hotel ADDRESS: 1901 Voght Street (outlined in red on map) PROPOSED CHANGES: To extend the liquor service hours. WANT TO PROVIDE INPUT? Sign up to speak in person at the meeting, or provide a written submission to the Corporate Officer at info@merritt.ca, or by mail to the Corporate Officer, City of Merritt, PO Box 189, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8. Please note that Council will not receive further submissions from the public concerning this application after the conclusion of the Public Hearing. It is the responsibility of the submitter to ensure that submitted materials are received prior to the close of the Public Hearing. NEED MORE INFORMATION? A copy of the proposed application and relevant material may be viewed, beginning June 11 until June 23, 2026, at City Hall, 2185 Voght Street, Merritt BC, Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays) from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm or on-line at any time at www.merritt.ca.
4MERRITT.CA/PUBLICNOTICES NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING: TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 | CITY HALL | 6:00PM | PUBLIC WELCOME! 4MERRITT.CA
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 9
WIND PHONE KEEPS MERRITTONIANS CONNECTED TO LOST LOVED ONES
PHOTO/GOOGLE MAPS
The intersection of Quilchena Avenue and Chapman Street in downtown Merritt.
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
Every person grieves in different ways, and the Merritt & District Hospice Society’s newest project helps grievers through its own unique form of communication. The Society, in collaboration with the City of Merritt, recently unveiled a wind phone at the cemetery. A wind phone is a disconnected telephone, often in a booth or quiet outdoor spot,
where people go to “call” loved ones who have died. The phone isn’t actually connected to anything, and is a symbolic way to express grief, say things left unsaid, share updates, or feel a continued connection. “When you lose somebody, you grieve over a period of time, and it comes and goes,” said Merritt Hospice Program Coordinator Lori Wright. “So if somebody took a walk up to the graveyard anytime and wanted to talk
to somebody that they miss or lost, it’s an opportunity to express that grief. We need to do that kind of thing to come through the process of grieving.” Though a grand unveiling will be planned for the fall, the booth itself was completed and made available to the public earlier this year, built around a bright red, old-fashioned phone by NVIT and MSS students, with some private donations and the help of the Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary “They did a phenomenal job,” said Wright. “When it was placed last year on site, they all came up and we had some pictures taken and they were all so proud.” She added that the society is looking at options for people to purchase plaques for their loved ones to adorn the phone, which will also be announced in September. “It’s like something takes over you. And I’m not religious by any means at all. There is a feeling when you walk in there. It’s a safety, it’s a comfort feeling. It feels really spiritual. It’s sort of the impression
you get when you go to a very beautiful place and it kind of takes your breath away. It’s kind of the same kind of thing.” The Merritt & District Hospice Society is always on the lookout for more volunteers, with more information available by emailing merritthospice@shaw.ca. The society has also recently begun holding meetings at the Merritt Library every Thursday, with all members of the public welcome to join.
The Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society Invites you to join us for a celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 St. Michaels Community Center (Courtyard) Time: 11 am – 1pm All Community members are welcome.
Program funded by the Government of Canada.
10 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
VOLLEYBALL SERVES BACK
Local and experienced
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250-374-3344 ext 244 bvandergracht@morellichertkow.com PHOTO/ANGELA RUSSELL
Merritt Volleyball Association recently donated $4,000.00 to the Merritt Elks local 441 after its two spring Volleyfest tournaments this year. MVA is proud to support the local Elks who are huge supporters of youth initiatives in Merritt and the Nicola Valley. Pictured are Angele, Norbert and William of the Merritt Elks alongside MVA executive Angela Russell.
Jacob M. Brown
250-374-3344 ext 264 jbrown@morellichertkow.com
www.morellichertkow.com
EXPERTS WARN OF RATTLESNAKE SEASON MORGAN HAMPTON Contributor
With warm summer temperatures on the way, residents of the Southern Interior are advised to be cautious of rattlesnakes as they emerge from hibernation to hunt and mate. The Northern Pacific Rattlesnake, more commonly known as the Western Rattlesnake, is the only venomous snake native to B.C. that pose a tangible risk to human health. Rattlesnakes prefer hot, semi-arid areas such as the Okanagan, Similkameen, Thompson and Nicola Valleys where rolling grasslands and rocky outcrops provide an ideal habitat. Heather Amos of the BC Drug and Poison Information Centre (DPIC) advises that the best way to avoid trouble with a rattlesnake is to steer clear whenever possible. “If you encounter one, keep your distance and do not try to handle it,” said Amos. “Bites usually cause one or two puncture wounds, immediate pain and burning and
swelling. Often within five minutes. A rattlesnake bite requires emergency medical care and it is important to get to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible. With prompt medical attention, serious injury or death is rare.” While you may have seen the old cowboys in western movies cut around the bite with their pocket knife and suck the poison out, be advised that that is a stunt best left to Hollywood as it is ineffective at best and dangerous at worst. Instead, “Remove clothing, jewelry (including rings) near the site of the bite as the swelling may make it hard to remove items later,” said Amos. “Clean the wound as soon as possible. Immobilize the limb with a loose bandage or splint and limit movement. Do not elevate the limb above the heart. Get to a hospital as quickly as possible. Some rattlesnake bites do not inject venom but still require medical assessment. Health ANTI-VENOM: continued on page 11
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ANTI-VENOM NOT AVAILABLE AT MERRITT VET EXPERTS WARN: continued from page 10 care providers will consult the Drug and Poison Information Centre for guidance on providing the antidote, CroFab. If the facility does not have the antidote and it is required, you will be transported to the nearest facility that does.” In BC there are roughly five to seven cases of rattlesnakes biting humans each year, with 30 cases reported from 2021 to 2026. Anti-venom was used in 15 of these cases. More commonly pets and livestock are bitten by rattlesnakes. “We would see rattlesnake bites in dogs, horses, and cattle most commonly,” explained Travis Marfleet, Associate Veterinarian at Kamloops Large Animal Vet Clinic (KLAVC). “The most common site for a bite would be lower limbs or the head, neck, or muzzle as you would guess, through grazing or sniffing in brush and pastures. Rattlesnake bites are associated with significant local swelling and cellulitis due to tissue-destructive enzymes within the venom (proteases). Owners of horses and cattle may be
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 11 able to manage mild bite cases on-farm with veterinary guidance for antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy while small animal cases should seek out a veterinary exam and treatment.” There has been a persistent belief that smaller, younger snakes carry a larger venom load but Marfleet refutes this claim as lacking any substantiating evidence, Recovery is strictly on a case by case basis. “Severe bites and reactions in pets may require IV fluid therapy for systemic support, IV antibiotics and anti-inflammatories,” explained Marfleet. “Severe face and neck swelling in any species, especially smaller dogs, could cause some airway obstruction or difficulty breathing, so prompt care is important. Interestingly, I have come across several owners of hunting or farm dogs that have taken the effort for snake avoidance training with sound cues to take an extra precaution when out in rattlesnake country.” KLAVC does not carry rattlesnake anti-venom, nor does Merritt Veterinary Hospital, where Dr. Roy notes that because of the expense and difficulty in obtaining the anti-venom they typically refer patients to an emergency hospital such as Phases Veterinary Hospital in Kamloops or Fairfield Animal Hospital in Kelowna. Both of these clinics carry anti-venom for rattlesnake bites and are open and staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. When out and about in rattlesnake country be mindful of areas where snakes may hide, listen for the telltale rattle sound the Western Rattlesnake uses as a warning, and be prepared to avoid trails or pathways where snakes have been spotted.
STUMP LAKE FIRE PROMPTS EVACUATIONS
PHOTO/BC WILDFIRE SERVICE JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
An evacuation has been ordered and dozens of properties have been put on alert near Stump Lake after a wildfire discovered on June 16 grew at a rapid pace. The Kullagh Creek Wildfire, which began on the north end of Stump Lake, had grown to 130 hectares by 1:30p.m. on the day of discovery by press
time. 55 firefighting personnel provided the initial response, with air crews providing support. The fire prompted the TNRD to release an evacuation order for at least one property, located at 8805 Kullagh Lake Road. Those on evacuation alert are on Kullagh Lake Road west of Hwy. 5A and on the northeast end of Stump Lake. The suspected cause remains under investigation.
The journey ahead We are on a journey to reconciliation—guided by listening, learning and partnership. Working alongside Indigenous communities, we are building meaningful relationships, supporting economic participation, and advancing shared approaches to sustainability through our Indigenous Reconciliation Action Plan. This National Indigenous Peoples Day, we reaffirm our commitment to continue this work—together.
Learn more at enbridge.com/IRAP
12 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
is now
K’EN T’EM
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250-378-6808
1951 Garcia Street, Unit 101, Merritt, BC
printing@ kentem.ca
Indigenous Peoples’ Day
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 13
We are proud to recognize & support
NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY and would like to further acknowledge the First Nations of the Nicola Valley.
Sunday, June 21, 2026
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NEARLY A CENTURY OF ADVOCACY FOR INDIGENOUS RIGHTS National Indigenous Peoples day will mark its 30th anniversary on June 21st, but the holiday has a history that goes much further back. The day was first officially proclaimed in 1996, to be celebrated annually on June 21 for its connections to cultural traditions related to the summer solstice. Unlike the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, National Indigenous Peoples day is not a federal holiday, and is only celebrated as a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories and Yukon. 1945 During World War II, Huron Wendake First Nation member Jules Sioui holds conventions to counteract new challenges to the rights of Indigenous Peoples, and with them comes the call for Canada to recognize Indigenous Peoples through an “Indian Day”.
1996 On June 13, 1996, as the result of years of consultations and statements of support from Indigenous groups, Governor General Roméo LeBlanc announces the first official federal “National Aboriginal Day”, a yearly celebration.
A FUNDAMENTAL: continued on page 14
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nd
o us n e ig
People’s Da
y•
Ju
0 26
2001 The Northwest Territories become the first province or territory to make National Aboriginal Day a statutory holiday.
Honouring the traditions, cultures & contributions of Indigenous Peoples in our communities
1, 2
1990 A land dispute between a group of Indigenous Mohawk Peoples and the town of Oka, Quebec over plans to build a golf course on land which included Indigenous burial grounds escalates into an armed stand off and lasts 78 days. The event, which left two dead, became
1995 Following the 1995 Ipperwash Crisis, Elijah Harper, a Oji-Cree politician and policy analyst, calls together the Sacred Assembly, a national meeting of Indigenous and non-Indigenous spiritual leaders. The crisis started over a land dispute over Ojibway land expropriated during World War II. During a confrontation, an OPP officer shot and killed protestor Dudley George. Backlash and major controversy followed, and sparked Harper and fellow Sacred Assembly members to push the federal government to establish “National First Peoples Day”.
National INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY
2 ne
1982 The Assembly of First Nations (then known as The National Indian Brotherhood) formally suggests establishing a “National Aboriginal Solidarity Day” as a day of recognition.
known as the Oka Crisis. In response to the crisis the federal government later called “This conflict… rooted in a centuries old land dispute and racism”, Quebec becomes the first province or territory to establish June 21 as a day to celebrate Indigenous peoples and culture.
na lI
Contributor
Proud to recongnize
Natio
TYLER REIS-SANFORD
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14 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
A FUNDAMENTAL DAY IN CANADIAN HISTORY NEARLY A CENTURY: continued from page 13 2009 June is declared “National Aboriginal History Month” by the federal government. 2015 The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) releases their final report and call to action. 2016 The Canadian government endorses the United Nations new guidelines around the treatment of Indigenous Peoples, called United Nations Declaration of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). 2017 Then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau renames Aboriginal Peoples Day to Indigenous Peoples Day, alongside the naming of National Indigenous History Month. “Every year, we join together on this
day to recognize the fundamental contributions that First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis Nation have made to the identity and culture of all Canadians,” said Trudeau in a released statement. “The history, art, traditions, and cultures of Indigenous Peoples have shaped our past, and continue to shape who we are today.” 2019 B.C. unanimously votes to become the first jurisdiction in Canada to implement UNDRIP, now known as the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) in November 2019, requiring the province to align its laws with the declaration. 2021 UNDRIP receives royal assent in the Canadian parliament on National Indigenous Peoples Day. 2025 A December court ruling in the case of Gitxaala v. British Columbia puts DRIPA
back in the spotlight, creating uncertainty around the future of the declaration and the potential to rewrite many of B.C.’s laws.
NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY June 21
Together we honour this day in recognizing diverse cultures, unique heritage and valuable contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
2026 Indigenous Peoples Day celebrates its 30-year anniversary, and is a part of the Celebrate Canada program, which includes other cultural celebrations happening across the country.
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 15
CELEBRATING CULTURE THROUGH SONG AND DANCE PHOTOS/HARIT JOSHI
The Headstart Powwow was held at Shulus Arbor on June 5, complete with flag and victory songs, boys and girls dances, and more. The event was hosted by Kathy Oppenheim, with drumming from Wild River and emceed by Garry Abbott.
MORE ON : page 16
NATIONAL
Indigenous PEOPLES DAY
On behalf of Aspen Planers, we celebrate the contributions of the Indigenous communities.
Aspen Planers Ltd. www.aspenplaners.ca
16 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
BRIGHT COLOURS, LIVELY COMMUNITY SPIRIT
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Let us all come together and celebrate the contributions of the Indigenous people in shaping our country. Nicola Valley Community Justice Services Society 1999 GARCIA ST., MERRITT, BC • TEL: 250-378-5010
We acknowledge and celebrate the enduring presence and strength of Indigenous Peoples in the Nicola Valley and across Canada.
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 17
THE GUARDIANS OF THE LAND
The Earth is mother of all people, and all people should have equal rights upon it. White Elk
PHOTOS/CNA LAND GUARDIANS
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Proud to celebrate HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
Land (tmíxʷ as it’s called in nłeʔkepmxcín) is sacred to nłeʔképmx. For, it carries a generational responsibility that reflects their culture, identity and way of life. Protecting and caring for the land is second nature and for this very reason the
National
Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) has a dedicated nłeʔképmx Guardians program with an on-ground presence all year round to care and protect tmíxʷ. “Our people have always been stewards of the land, but increasing pressures like climate change, development, and land use THIS ISNT JUST A JOB: continued on page 18
Proud To Support
INDIGENOUS
PEOPLES DAY June 21 - 2026 Honouring the traditions, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples in our communities
3673 DeWolf Way, Merritt BC • 250-378-5030
Indigenous Peoples Day 2770 Pooley Ave., Merritt
250-378-9201
Nicola Valley & District Metis Society
PROUD TO CELEBRATE OUR METIS CULTURE. WE WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUR SUPPORT AND WISHES TO ALL INDIGENOUS PEOPLE FOR A STRONG FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME. If you would like more information on our society please call 250-378-5015 or 250-378-0076 email: truck126@hotmail.com • Facebook: Nicola Valley Metis
18 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
‘THIS ISN’T JUST A JOB, IT’S WHO WE ARE’, SAYS GUARDIANS
THE GUARDIANS: continued from page 17
impacts made it clear that a coordinated program was necessary,” said Ariel Voght, nłeʔképmx Guardian Manager. Starting with just two members four years ago, it has grown into a 21-member team backed by a strong demand and the value it is able to create for the communities. “This isn’t just a job, it’s who we are. When we’re out on the land, we’re taking care of home. Our team is passionate about what they’re doing, and that’s what has driven the growth of the program. We’re all connected to tmíxʷ, and we feel at home when we’re out on the land,” added Voght. The nłeʔképmx Guardians program blends traditional knowledge with modern environmental practices. Guardians act as the eyes and ears on the land — monitoring changes, protecting cultural areas, and supporting the health of ecosystems. The work is organized across four interconnected teams, each supporting a
different aspect of stewardship. The Ground Patrol unit, guided by Cultural Lead Travis Voght, monitors activity across the territory and promotes respectful use of land. The Community Response team, led by Steve Austin, supports wildfire preparedness, emergency response, and community needs. The Projects team, steered by Frank Sterling Jr and Willow Johnny, are hands-on with much of the environmental work. To back various initiatives and smooth coordination is the logistics team. A key focus of the Guardians program is restoring and strengthening local ecosystems. “One of the most important aspects of this work is stream and wetland restoration. Guardians are using techniques such as beaver dam analogues (BDAs) and post-assisted log structures (PALs) to slow water, rebuild natural flow patterns, and restore habitat for fish and wildlife. These structures mimic the natural benefits of beaver dams — helping to retain water on
final
National Indigenous Peoples Day Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation
is proud to support
Lower Nicola Indian Band
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
STEWARDSHIP: continued on page 19
y a D s u o n e g i National Ind COLDWATER INDIAN BAND PO Box 4600 2249 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-378-6174 www.coldwaterband.com
UPPER NICOLA INDIAN BAND
PO Box 3700, 2225 Village Road, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-350-3342 www.uppernicolaband.com
SHACKAN INDIAN BAND 2099 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-378-5410
NOOAITCH INDIAN BAND
2954 Shackelly Road, Merritt, BC V1K 1N9 250-378-6141
The Scw’exmx Tribal Council would like to Celebrate National Indigenous Day and wish everyone a summer celebration commemorating Aboriginal Heritage and Culture.
CongratulationsFirst Nations GRAD CLASS OF 2026 WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST FUTURE!
Coldwater Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band & NVIT. Visit our website for more up-to-date information
www.scwexmxtribal.
administration@scwexmxtribal.
250-378-4235
STEWARDSHIP REFLECTS BOTH INDIGENOUS AND WESTERN WAYS THIS ISNT: continued from page 18 the landscape, reducing erosion, and creating healthier, more resilient ecosystems. The work not only improves salmon habitat but also strengthens the land’s ability to adapt to climate change and drought,” informed Voght. Projects like the restoration efforts at Twaal Creek highlight how combining traditional knowledge with modern techniques can lead to meaningful, lasting impacts on the land. Collaborating with other Indigenous Guardian programs, as well as provincial Conservation Officers, Natural Resource Officers, and Park Rangers is a key part too. Collaboration allows them to bring forward nłeʔképmx knowledge and perspectives, ensuring that stewardship decisions reflect both Indigenous and Western approaches. It strengthens relationships and reinforces that protecting the land is a shared responsibility. “Our message is simple: respect
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 19 PROUD TO CELEBRATE OUR ABORIGINAL CULTURE. MARIO’S TOWING WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUR SUPPORT AND WISHES FOR A STRONG FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.
NATIONAL
Indigenous Peoples
Day
June 21, 2026
From the Management & Staff Mario’s Towing Group the land and take care of it as you would your own home. We also encourage people to learn about the land they are on, including its cultural significance. Understanding that connection helps build respect and responsibility. Ultimately, tmíxʷ takes care of us, and it’s up to all of us to return that care. When people approach the land with respect and awareness, we can all be part of protecting it for future generations.”
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Rooted in community
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Environmental Services Cultural Heritage Reclamation Services info@kentem.ca | 250-378-1864 | 2025 Granite Avenue, Merritt, BC
20 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
CNA TO HOST VIBRANT INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY EVENT HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
It will be the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, when it is celebrated across the country. Merritt, too, will be celebrating with vibrancy, showcasing the rich culture and traditions, thanks to Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA). The celebrations will be hosted at CNA’s newly-possessed plot on 3299 River Ranch Road from 10 AM to 2pm. “We’re able to come together, celebrate and gather on the event that is open to everyone,” said CNA’s Operations Manager Madelynn Albert. Several activities are planned by CNA and K’en T’em Limited Partnership as well as their partners. There will be local vendors, community booths, and meal tickets will be available for a sponsored meal from the food trucks.
Emcee Justin Young will be ensuring the crowd gets grooving. There will be an elders rest area that will include language with Jerry Voght in one of the tipis, mom and tots rest area along with games through out the day that includes some cool prizes. The event will also honour a Father’s Day celebration. “CNA considers Indigenous Peoples Day a kind of all hands-on deck initiative. So, which ever the day falls on, even a weekday or a weekend, we shift our staff, so that we can still continuously support our community members in coming together and gathering. “We have a responsibility of creating a safe space, healing connection, and upholding our community values. Learning from our community members and continuing that reciprocity in respects to them,” said Albert. For more information, check out www. cna-trust.ca
A photograph lasts only a moment, but the stories behind it last much longer.
Celebrating Indigenous peoples day June 21
We would like to send our support to our Aboriginal community on Indigenous Peoples Day
This small collage celebrates the culture, strength, traditions, and community spirit we have been honoured to witness throughout the past year. These are more than images—they are reflections of the people, relationships, and shared experiences that make our region vibrant and strong. Today, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples and the enduring contributions they make to our communities every day.
Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day from the Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society.
st
Management and staff
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 21
INDIGENOUS PATIENT NAVIGATOR THERE TO HELP AT ROYAL INLAND
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
The role of an Indigenous Patient Navigator in the B.C. healthcare system is a broad one, and not one that Deb Donald takes lightly. Donald, who has worked at Royal Inland Hospital for 17 years, has helped all kinds of Indigenous patients from Kamloops and the Nicola Valley “from womb to tomb.” “I get to provide support to my people daily,” said Donald. Not only do I provide emotional support during their healthcare journey, but I am a part of some pivotal moments.” Donald added that everyday is different. “As I am walking into work, I am wondering what I will get today. I float the whole hospital, so I could be anywhere at any given time. I get my steps in each day. I recall a day where I was doing a viewing for a family in the morning and then helping deliver a baby in the afternoon.”
While an IPN is available to help with all matters of general healthcare questions, like accessing specialists, programming, and financial support, Donald’s role provides an extra specific kind of expertise in things like connecting patients with cultural supports, such as Elders, Knowledge Keepers, traditional healing practices or Indigenous wellness programs. “I get a sense of why they’re here and how long they’re going to be here for, provide a lot of emotional support, a lot of explaining what to expect while they’re here, interpreting some of the medical jargon... that that could be pretty intimidating.” In the Interior Health system, you do not need a family doctor to access an Indigenous Patient Navigator. If you or your family are looking for the help and support of an IPN, you can ask any nurse, physician, social worker, or unit clerk to connect you with Donald or another navigator at Royal Inland.
Sxéxn’x (Shackan) Indian Band ➣
Proudly Celebrates
➣
HONOURING THE RICH CULTURE, TRADITIONS, AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES. As a member community of the Nlaka’pamux Nation, Shackan continues to uphold the values, language, and heritage passed down through generations while building a strong future for its members.
TODAY, WE RECOGNIZE AND CELEBRATE THE RESILIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, AND ENDURING SPIRIT OF INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES ACROSS CANADA.
HAPPY NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY!
Honouring Indigenous Peoples Day
Today, we celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. We are grateful to be part of a community built on respect, learning, and connection.
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22 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
LOCAL CHILDREN’S BOOKS GET REGIONAL TRANSLATION HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
After years of trying to navigate the translation of his books in nłeʔkepmxcín, children’s book author Jeff Bloom is thrilled that it is finally happening. The Merrittbased teacher and coach has authored several books since 2012. Bloom’s series of books on Squawker, his childhood pet crow, is translated in nłeʔkepmxcín with the help of his
co-teacher James Shuter at Lower Nicola Indian Band school. The project saw the light of the day when Conayt Friendship Society agreed to fund it. “About last year in Christmas at an NVIT event, I spoke to Hyrum Peterson, the executive director at Conyt Friendship Society, about translation. He asked me to come up with a budget because I had to pay to the translator and to the graphic artist. Hyrum was really
easy to work with. They promptly agreed to fund the project, and I got paid in two instalments,” said Bloom, who expects the books to be out by July. The three books that will be translated are: Squawker: Free as a bird, Squawker: Free to party and Squawker: Friends aren’t free. The series is a story where the main character is the crow. The first book is about learning how to fly, the second is
about teenage angst and the third book is dealing with relationship issues and strained friendships. “There are other characters like cat, squirrel. Ladybug appears in every single book because my daughter collected whole time when she was growing up,” Bloom mentioned. Bloom’s wife said that the need to translate his books in nłeʔkepmxcín arise after getting a “lot of requests” from the
nłeʔképmx people. In his 47 years of teaching, Bloom has entertained his students with stories of Squawker. Apart from publishing books since 2012, Bloom, a former professional baseballer with the Montreal Expos, is credited to introduce handball at elementary level. He has also taken initiatives to prepare senior citizens with digital skills.
Today we celebrate, honour, and uplift.
Happy National Indigeneous Peoples Day! This message brought to you by The Nicola Valley Teachers Union
A CHAMPION OF LOCAL LANGUAGE LEARNING HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
One of the constant endeavors of Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) is spreading the opportunity to learn and access nłeʔkepmxcín. While a lot of resources of nłeʔképmx is well documented on CNA’s website, the accessibility to learn the language to speak is rigorously undertaken by CNA Advisor Jerry Voght, who is also a Coldwater Indian Band Elder. Voght has been championing nłeʔkepmxcín cause by holding speaking sessions with groups and individuals. “The language sessions are open to everyone. If you’re willing to learn how to speak the language, I’m there. It’s an open house on Wednesdays at Citxw on Nicola Avenue. We’ve had a few people off the street to join our session,” said Voght. He also visits some communities for
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 23
June 21, 2026 National Indigenous Peoples Day Honouring the strength, culture, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis Peoples. On Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize the deep history, resilience, and ongoing leadership of Indigenous communities.
WorkBC Centre-Merritt
tel: 250-378-5151 email: info-merritt@workbc.ca
ENCOURAGING: continued on page 24
Unity Cannabis respectfully acknowledges that we operate on the traditional and unceded territories of the Nlaka’pamux people, including the local Bands whose stewardship of this land spans countless generations. As we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we are proud to support the recognition of the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. Together, we honour the importance of keeping traditions alive and strengthening connections through understanding, respect, and community.
CANNABIS STORE
OPEN EVERYDAY 9 AM TO 10 PM
250-378-0450 #104 - 2101 QUILCHENA AVE
UNITYCANNABIS.CA
24 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
ENCOURAGING TO SEE THOSE WILLING TO HELP SAVE LANGUAGE
A CHAMPION: continued from page 23 speaking sessions and conducts online classes for those that are located away from Merritt. “We have been having a great response. It’s a great way to connect with other people. I’ve been working with Cook’s Ferry and other communities where they’re starting to speak. It brings a lot of people together,” he said. Voght felt it was important to teach people how to speak the language before advancing to writing. “There are not many speakers out there. A lot of people are teaching how to write, but the paper is not going to tell you how to speak the language. When I started working for CNA about a year and a half ago, I just wanted to document the language and get it out to people that wanted to learn how to speak the
language because we lost it (language) through residential schools. We lost our culture. And then we started doing a bit of language classes and recording stuff. By being in-person, you get them to pronounce it properly as a lot of people have a hard time pronouncing some of the letters and words,” Voght noted. Providing an opportunity for people to learn the language and see them take that effort is far more rewarding for Voght rather than invariable attendance in his class. “I am happy when people make an attempt to speak a few words or greet me whenever they see me. That is encouraging as people are putting an effort to learn and put in use, even if it’s for a brief moment. That’s how this language will grow and how it will reach others,” he concluded.
Proud to be a supporter of
Indigenous Peoples Day JUNE 21, 2026
Hours: Mon.- Fri. 9 am-6 pm. • Sat. 9 am-4 pm • Sun. 11 am-3 pm
1800 Garcia Street • 250-378-9238
Help us celebrate our
INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY! June 21, 2026
NEW PATIENTS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME. 2088 Quilchena Ave. PO Box 3090, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
Call: 250-378-5877
WE ACCEPT ALL DENTAL INSURANCE PLANS
HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:00AM-4:30PM
Stuwix Resources Today we are honoring Indigenous Peoples of Canada Protecting Traditional Values Through Sustainable Forest Management
NATIONAL
Indigenous
We would like to extend a warm thank you to all our Indigenous Peoples.
Peoples Day June 21, 2026
HOURS: 8 am ‘til 9 pm, 7 days a week ON LINE SHOPPING NOW AVAILABLE
250-378-2277 2—98 Hwy 8, Merritt, B.C., V1K 0A7
SaveonFoods.com
Find us at the Railyard Mall (Garcia St.)
250-378-5564
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 25
The Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly is excited to invite you to
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY June 21 , 2026 st
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 3299 River Ranch Road, Merritt BC
Everyone is welc welcome! ome! This free, familyfriendly celebration is sure to be full of exciting events and delicious food. Hope to see you there!
Featuring: Food Trucks
Local Vendors
Community Booths
Questions or concerns? Please call our office at 250-378-1864 or email programs@cna-trust.ca
26 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY
SPORTS
GOT SPORTS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
HOMETOWN BOYS WIN BATTLE OF THE VALLEY The U13s do it again on home turf, this time the boys
AMY DOUTHWRIGHT Contributor
Merritt Minor Softball Association once again welcomed teams from across the province for the 5th annual Battle in the Valley Boys Softball Tournament. Over three days, 24 teams across four age divisions competed at Central Park, with plenty of exciting games and memorable moments throughout the weekend. The Merritt teams finished as follows: U11 Blacks Pharmacy – 9th Place; U11 Infracon – 5th Place; U11 Best Western Plus/Mr. Mike’s Merritt – 6th Place; U13 Franks Mechanical – Champions; U15 Empty Keg – 6th Place; U15 Canadian Tire – 5th Place; U17 RE/MAX – 3rd Place. Leading the way was the U13 Franks Mechanical team, who went undefeated all weekend, winning all six of their games to capture the tournament
championship. The gold medal game was one to remember. Playing seven full innings in 31-degree heat, Merritt defeated Clearwater 13-6 to bring home the title. The team’s pitching was outstanding throughout the game, keeping Clearwater in check when it mattered most. There were no shortage of highlight-reel moments. Carter Hamm launched a home run in the championship game and capped it off with a slide across home plate. Jaxon Fader came up with a spectacular diving catch at shortstop that proved to be one of the game’s biggest defensive plays. The outfield also tracked down countless pop flies, while the team’s aggressive baserunning produced several multi-base steals that kept the pressure on Clearwater all game long. With the championship on the line, the boys saved one of their best innings for last. Holding a 13-6 lead, Merritt retired the side in order in the top of the seventh with three up, three down, securing the victory without
LOCAL FOOTBALL FANS MAKING THE TRIP
PHOTO/AMY DOUTHWRIGHT
The U13 Franks Mechanical team won the Battle in the Valley tournament last weekend.
needing to take another turn at bat. While the championship was a tremendous accomplishment, the coaches were just as proud of the way the team carried themselves throughout the weekend. “The boys played with incredible sportsmanship from
HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
As the excitement surrounding FIFA World Cup hits a crescendo, a few lucky Merrittonians will be soaking in the euphoria at the BC Place Stadium in Vancouver over the next few weeks. Kelly Donaldson and her son Brady
start to finish. They were encouraging and complimenting players on the opposing teams while competing as hard as they could. They showed grit, determination, and respect all weekend, and we’re incredibly proud of what they accomplished together.” Merritt Minor Softball
will be watching the June 26 game between New Zealand and Belgium, while Lindsay deVisser and his son Liam will witness host Canada take on Qatar on Thursday (June 18). Rishi Vasa has spent a substantial part of his savings to get a Round of 16 ticket
in anticipation of watching Cristiano Ronaldo if all goes as planned. Donaldson and deVisser were the few lucky ones to get tickets in FIFA’s presale ticket round. Donaldson was fortunate to get tickets for the Canada vs Qatar game too but since
Association would like to thank all of the volunteers, sponsors, umpires, and families who helped make another successful Battle in the Valley possible. Congratulations to every team that competed, and a special congrat to the U13 Franks Mechanical for bringing another championship home to Merritt.
it clashes with the Grad’s night, she settled for watching just one game. “We are very excited to watch a World Cup game. This is the biggest football event in the world. We are lifelong soccer fans. We put our names in the draw. We were very surprised to get
any tickets, let alone for two games. In February, we found out that we got the tickets. I thought we had won a lottery,” an ecstatic Donaldson said. “The atmosphere is going to be amazing. To be FANS EXCITED: continued on page 27
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 27
FANS EXCITED TO SEE WORLD CLASS NAMES LOCAL FOOTBALL: continued from page 26 part of the biggest tournament in the world, it is going to be exciting. We are sad to miss out on the Canada game, though,” she added. For deVisser, this was the perfect birthday present for his son, who turns 12 on July 10. “We are getting more excited as it gets closer and the games have started. My brother is bringing his son, and I’m bringing my soccer-obsessed boy, Liam, as his 12th birthday present,” he said. Vasa will first experience a few games at the FIFA Fan Park before hitting the stands with his brother and a few
friends. “My company has organized summer break for the staff as a retreat, enjoy the day, and spend time together at the Fan Park in Vancouver on June 24. I really love watching football, and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event. I have spent a lot of my savings to book a ticket for the Round of 16 match on July 7. We don’t know who’s qualifying yet, but if things go as planned, then we might get to see Portugal playing and probably Ronaldo’s final dance. I am a Lionel Messi fan, and having seen him play live in the MLS, I am excited to watch Ronaldo now,” said Vasa. Excited to sport Canadian star Alphonso Davies jersey, deVisser cannot contain his excitement to witness his
maiden FIFA World Cup game. “I’ve been in Vancouver for other big events like the Olympics and I’m looking forward to being swept up by the excitement. I’ll be wearing an Alphonso Davies shirt and hoping he’s well enough to make an appearance,” he said. While Donaldson, who was also a professional soccer player in her childhood, is looking forward to a nice game, her son Brady is particularly interested in the nuances of football. “I think Spain has a very good chance to win the World Cup. They won the Euros and have a very good line-up. I am closely following 18-year-old rising superstar Lamine Yamal. It’s going to be exciting,” he said.
cool.” Now, nearly three decades after that childhood dream first took shape, Girardi is living it. The physical education teacher at the Lower Nicola Indian Band is one of the volunteers selected to work at FIFA World Cup at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, a journey that began with an application process she approached with determination and meticulous preparation. “When I kind of caught wind that there was going to be volunteer applications because the World Cup was being here, I was like, ‘I gotta shoot my shot,’” she said. “I had planned and prepped for my application for months in advance because I wanted it to be perfect.” For Girardi, soccer has always been more than a game. “I played soccer my entire life. I played university soccer. I wanted to be a professional soccer player,” she said. “This sport has made me who I am. The sport and the culture around it, and the community that involves and how it can bring so many different people from
closer, the reality of her role was finally sinking in. “Our opening ceremony practice, that made it feel real. I was almost in tears. I was sitting there holding the rope going, ‘don’t cry, don’t cry, oh my God.’” Girardi’s volunteer duties place her close to the action. As a rope bearer, she helps create a barrier between photographers and players during pre-game ceremonies. She will also serve as a marshal, assisting media personnel behind the goal area. Back in Merritt, her students have become invested in every step of the journey. “They’re living it with me right now,” she said. “The other day I wore my uniform for them.” One of Girardi’s favourite aspects of volunteering has been collecting and trading pins, a tradition similar to what takes place at the Olympic Games. Thanks to support from the Baillie House, she has been sharing the pins with fellow volunteers and visitors from around the world. “People already had them on their lanyards,” she said. “It was awesome.
VOLUNTEERING CHANCE OF A LIFETIME
PHOTO/HARIT JOSHI
Lower Nicola Indian Band teacher Alex Girardi in her FIFA attire.
HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
For as long as she can remember, Alex Girardi has lived and breathed soccer. Raised in an Italian household where football was “our bread and butter,” the Merritt resident spent her childhood watching every match she could find. While many young fans dreamed of scoring the
winning goal, Girardi found herself fascinated by a different role on the sidelines. “I would see the ball boys and the ball girls on the sides… waiting for that ball to go out to throw the ball back to the players,” she said. “I wanted that job forever. Still, to this day, if I could swap my role… I would take a ball job any day because it’s just so
different walks of life together.” That deep connection made receiving her acceptance all the more emotional. “When I got the application approved, I called my mom and my dad. I was in shock, and I sat there, and I was like, ‘Mom, I got it.’ I started crying,” she recalled. “My dad was worried. These are happy tears. It still doesn’t feel real.” The application process began last August and required months of commitment. Girardi attended mandatory training sessions and volunteer tryouts, rearranging personal plans to ensure she would not miss a single requirement. “I actually had a trip in March planned to Guatemala back in November last year, and I had to push it back by a day because they said, ‘You have a mandatory training on March 15. If you don’t go, your application will be null and void,’” she said. “So, I paid a hundred dollars to move my flight back a day just so I could attend it.” As the tournament drew
Putting Merritt on the world map,” she said with a chuckle. Having moved to Merritt three years ago, Girardi says she is proud to represent both the community and her students on an international stage. More importantly, she hopes her story inspires young people to pursue their own ambitions, no matter how unlikely they may seem. “The one thing that I’ve wanted my students to take from this in particular is that anything is possible,” she said. “If you try and don’t let go of your dreams, because it can happen. You just have to work for it.” After waiting 27 years for a dream opportunity, Girardi believes perseverance makes all the difference. “Never quit on your dreams. Never give up on your dreams, because if you give up, you’re never going to achieve it,” she said. “But if you keep trying, there’s a chance, and you can make it happen. It just might take a little longer. I never thought I was gonna get it 27 years later. Here I am!”
SPORTS
28 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY
MERRITT SWIMMERS MAKE A SPLASH
GOT STORIES? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
CONTAIN-IT STORAGE Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■
1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000
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
PHOTO/HARIT JOSHI
Swimmers compete in the Merritt Otters swim meet over the last weekend.
HARIT JOSHI
hjoshi@kentem.ca
The Merritt Otters Swim Club successfully hosted its annual Home Swim Meet on June 13–14, welcoming 164 swimmers from nine clubs across British Columbia. The competition featured seven clubs from the Okanagan Region and two Coast Region clubs, Agassiz Harrison and Chilliwack Stingrays. Swimmers from Kelowna, Kamloops and Princeton took
the podium predominantly, several Merritt Otters swimmers delivered strong performances, earning numerous Top 6 finishes throughout the weekend. In Division 1, Lexi Mierau placed third in the 50-metre freestyle, fifth in the 50-metre backstroke, and fourth in the 100-metre freestyle. Division 2 swimmer Elijah Lajarca recorded four Top 5 finishes, placing fourth in
the 100-metre individual medley, 50-metre freestyle, and 50-metre butterfly, while adding a fifth-place finish in the 50-metre backstroke. Teammate Levi Mierau finished fifth in both the 50-metre freestyle and breaststroke and sixth in the 100-metre freestyle. Lilly Willis led the Division 3 Otters with six Top 6 results, including fourth in the 50-metre breaststroke, fifth in the
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 • 778-661-1979 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m. St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-319-8823 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m. 100-metre individual medley, 50-metre butterfly, and 100-metre freestyle, and sixth in both the 50-metre freestyle and backstroke. In Division 4, Imroz Kaur Brar earned a bronze medal in the 200-metre individual medley and
added five more Top 6 finishes. Naomi Reid placed fourth in both the 200-metre individual medley and 100-metre breaststroke while recording three additional Top 5 results. Loryne Joy Peralta also reached the Top 6 in three events.
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
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | 29
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ONLINE TIMED • IN-HOUSE SATURDAY, JUN 27TH - 8 AM (lots start closing) BAILIFF SEIZURE • AUTOBODY WELDERS/EQUIP. Pro Spot i4s Smart Spot Welder, Pro Spot SP-5 Smart Mig 3 Handle Welder, Wedge Clamp Frame System Large Selection of Snap-On Tools BAILIFF SEIZURE: Unique Furniture made from Wine Barrels, Large Selection of Woodworking Tools & Equip. - Bandsaw, Table Saw, Routers, Planers, Jointer, Compressor, Cordless & Corded Hand Tools, Festool Vac, Mitre Saws, Dust Exhaust System, Drill Press, Sanders & Much More; Over 30 Wine Barrels, Live Edge Dining Table & More!! Viewing - Dodds Showroom - Vernon Thu/Fri (Jun 25/26) - 8 am - 4 pm Bid Online or Absentee Bids Accepted | 3311 - 28 Avenue, Vernon Subject to additions & deletions Photos & link to sales @ doddsauction.com CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION DODDS AUCTION 250-545-3259
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ENVO 3 WHEEL PEDAL ASSIST. FLEX TRIKE 7 speeds, have manual and tool kit to go with it. Open to offers Call Richard at 250-378-4572 Garage Sales
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Donations gratefully accepted on Giant Yard Sale Dates and Thursday mornings from 10 am - 1pm. NO EXERCISE EQUIPMENT OR BEDS.
Legal/Public Notices
“Land Act: Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land
Take notice that I/We, James Gudjonson, from Kamloops, BC, have applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), South Coast Region, for Licence and a Lease for Adventure Tourism located on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Hope, BC. WLRS invites comments on this application. The Lands File is 2413160 and 2413162. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the AT Hub, WLRS, Thompson Okanagan Region, at 441 Columbia Street, Kamloops, BC V2C 3H5. Comments will be received by WLRS up to August 1, 2026. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www. gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.
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30 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
S
Help Wanted
BAND ADMINISTRATOR
HOME RENOVATION
DEPARTMENT: Administration • POSITION/TITLE: Band Administrator SUPERVISOR: Chief & Council • SALARY: $100,000-$125,000 depending on experience
BE
19+
C
C
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S
The Nooaitch Indian Band is currently seeking a Band Administrator to join our team. As the Band Administrator, you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Band office and ensuring that the Band’s programs and services are delivered in an efficient and effective manner. Responsibilities for Band Administrator: • Oversee the operations of the Band office, including human resources, finance, and administration, • Develop and implement policies, procedures, and guidelines to support the Band’s goals and objectives, • Manage the Band’s budget and ensure that financial resources are used in a responsible and effective manner, • Work with Band Council and other stakeholders to develop and implement strategic plans and initiatives, • Ensure that the Band’s programs and services are delivered in a culturally appropriate and respectful manner, • Foster positive relationships with Band members, stakeholders, and other First Nations communities, • Represent the Band in negotiations and meetings with government agencies, funding organizations, and other stakeholders, • Prepare reports and make presentations to Band Council and other stakeholders, • Respond to inquiries and concerns from Band members, stakeholders, and the public regarding Band operations and services, and • Perform other related duties as assigned by Band Council. Qualifications for Band Administrator: • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field, • Proven experience in a senior management role, preferably in a First Nations community or organization, • Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure, • Knowledge of First Nations governance and legal frameworks, • Understanding of financial management, budgeting, and reporting, • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders, • Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion, and • Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about working for a First Nations community, please submit your resume and cover letter to the Nooaitch Indian Band for consideration. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Interested applicants please direct resumes and cover letter to: Nooaitch Band 2954 Shackelly Rd. Merritt, BC V1K 1N9 Ph: 250-378-6141 Email: executive.assistant@nooaitchband.ca Deadline for applications: Posting will remain open until June 22, 2026
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32 | THURSDAY, June 18, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
The Merritt Otters Swim Club would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of our sponsors for supporting our 2026 Home Swim Meet. Your generosity and commitment helped make this event a tremendous success, and we truly could not have done it without you.
We would also like to thank our incredible team of dedicated volunteers, parents, officials, coaches, and swimmers. Your hard work, enthusiasm, and countless hours of support ensured a memorable and successful meet for everyone involved. Thank you for being part of our Otters family and for helping us create such a fantastic event!