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COUNCIL ON CRIME
SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
City Council candidates answer questions on the issue of homelessness and crime in Merritt.
The Herald celebrates the small businesses and entrepreneurs that keep our economy moving.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026
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ELECTIONS 2026: KEEPING QUALIFIED TEACHERS IN THE NICOLA VALLEY The Merritt Herald posed the question to each candidate for Nicola-Similkameen School District Trustee: What do you think the School District should do to attract and retain qualified teachers to Merritt?
JAKE COURTEPATTE newsroom@ merrittherald.com
The race for School District 58 (Nicola Similkameen) trustee seats is on with seven seats in total, including three seats elected in Merritt, three in Princeton and one representing rural Thompson-Nicola
Regional District Electoral Areas M and N. The candidates in Merritt are Gordon Swan, Justin Jepsen, Leroy Slanzi, Tim Manuel and Stu Jackson. In rural Areas M and N, incumbent Everett Hoisington is facing challenger Lara Coutlee for the single trustee position.
In Princeton, Jamie Kent-Laidlaw, Shane Woodruff and Leah Ward are declared, with only three seats available. Trustees will be voted in on the Oct. 17 municipal election day.
See candidate answers to question on page 9
PHOTO/HERALD FILES
Coldwater Indian Band is fighting back after it was announced the federal government is moving forward with a third Trans Mountain pipeline through the Coldwater Valley. STORY ON PG. 12
2 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
VANDALISM THE CAUSE FOR SCHOOL CLOSURE
PHOTO/ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
Nicola-Canford Elementary was closed due to vandalism late last month.
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald. com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A carbon monoxide leak that forced Nicola-Canford Elementary School to close in late September has been traced to vandalism damage to the school’s boiler exhaust stacks. School District 58 Superintendent Courtney Lawrance said the exhaust stacks had been vandalized over the years before eventually failing and causing the leak. “The cause was from the boiler exhaust stacks that have been vandalized over the years which in turn failed and caused a CO leak,” Lawrance said. All of the exhaust stacks have since been replaced with new ones. The school was determined to be safe later that same afternoon, with students and staff returning the following day. Lawrance said stationary carbon monoxide monitors in rooms throughout the school showed there was
no carbon monoxide after the leak was repaired. The district also used portable monitoring equipment throughout the building before students and staff were allowed to return. “The district also has portable monitoring equipment to ensure the building is safe before we allowed any students or staff in the building,” Lawrance said. “This equipment tested all areas in the school that showed it was safe to return.” Nicola-Canford continues to have around the clock carbon monoxide monitoring. Lawrance said the system was also what initially alerted the district to the problem. The system is not unique to Nicola-Canford. Lawrance said all SD58 schools are fully monitored for carbon monoxide, with the systems installed over the summer. The incident has also highlighted a larger concern for the district around vandalism and unauthorized access to school rooftops. “Vandalism at our schools, including
unauthorized access by students onto school roofs, continues to be a significant concern,” Lawrance said. She said those incidents result in thousands of dollars in repair costs to the district each year. School rooftops contain technical, mechanical and sensitive equipment that can be damaged through unauthorized access, with damage not always immediately visible. “In many cases, the full extent of the damage is not immediately visible, as components can be damaged internally without any obvious external signs,” Lawrance said. She said that damage can lead to equipment failures or safety concerns that do not become apparent until later, pointing to the recent carbon monoxide leak as an example. Lawrance said preventing unauthorized roof access is important both to protect critical building systems and to maintain a safe environment for students and staff.
NICOLA VALLEY
NEWS
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COUNCIL CANDIDATES ON CRIME, HOMELESSNESS
The Merritt Herald posed the question to each candidate for Mayor and City Council: What specific actions would you take to address crime and homelessness in Merritt, and what role do you believe the City should play versus the province, RCMP and local social-service organizations? issues alone. By working together, we can build a safer, and healthier community.
YVETTE BAXTER As a councillor, I would advocate for a practical, coordinated response with clear responsibilities for every partner. The city should act where it has authority through community planning, bylaw enforcement, management of public spaces and advocacy while bringing local agencies to the same table. The province must provide reliable funding, housing, healthcare, mental health and addiction services. The RCMP is responsible for policing and public safety, while local service organizations contribute vital front line knowledge and support. I would encourage all organizations to communicate regularly, report openly and apply for funding together, reducing duplicated efforts so resources can make the greatest difference. No organization can solve these complex
WENDY CHARNEY A municipal government, RCMP and local social-service organizations each have distinct but important roles in addressing homelessness and associated crime. The role of Mayor and Council is to ensure that public spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for all residents. This includes establishing and enforcing municipal bylaws and working closely with the RCMP to address criminal activity and public safety concerns. A strong working relationship with the RCMP is critical to ensuring that our community remains safe. The RCMP is responsible for crime prevention, enforcing the law, and investigating offences. Local social-service organizations play an important role in connecting individuals with addiction treatment, mental health services, appropriate housing, and other
support services. However, we must recognize that municipalities have many core responsibilities, including water and sewer services, roads and infrastructure, parks and recreation, and solid waste collection. Healthcare, mental health services, addiction treatment, and social housing are primarily provincial responsibilities. As a Council, we must ensure that our bylaws are enforced and that violations receive an appropriate response. We must also work with local service organizations to help connect homeless individuals with the services they need. At the same time, we must advocate to the provincial government to ensure it takes responsibility for providing the housing, treatment, and health services to address homelessness.
DANA EGAN These issues do not fall within our local mandates. However, what we can do as
Councillors is advocate for better services & more funds for staff to better serve our community. As Council, I believe it is our mandate to contact local organizations that address these issues and facilitate cooperation among them so that everyone works within their scope. In other words, to ensure that overlap does not occur unless more funding is needed for specific programs. To date, Council has re-booted the “Situation Table,” which brings together a broad number of agencies and service Groups to identify issues that need addressing in Merritt. Another way to address some of the homelessness-related problems downtown is for Council to set policy that goes further than a No Loitering Bylaw. a Substance Abuse Bylaw (which I read as misleading as it pertains to buildings and corrosive materials), as well as the Good Neighbour Bylaw, which doesn’t go far enough. If re-elected, I would pursue changing the latter Bylaw. The Provincial Government needs to put its money where its mouth is: If they are going to download services to municipalities, they need to provide the necessary funds to run them. The Federal Government needs to reform the criminal justice system so that it does not operate like a catch-and-release system. They have begun this process but really need to speed it up as too many people that need to be in jail are not, leading to too many people being hurt or killed due to the same reason.
Continued on page 4
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ADAM ETCHART I believe as a council member, we have to advocate for community safety. Council has regular police committee meetings where we can discuss public concerns and I believe the community policing officer role is helping reduce the number of encampments and disorderly conduct in the downtown core. The provincial pilot program for decriminalizing drug use in public ended this year but brought many new unhoused people to Merritt. We need to advocate for mental health and addiction supports as we won’t instantly see the effects of the toxic drug supply vanish overnight. The provincial government should be providing supports for our most vulnerable people. Merritt doesn’t have the capacity in our hospital to accommodate the number of calls or first responders are called. With continued police patrols in the downtown core and working with our service partners I hope we can see an improvement in our community.
MANUEL OLGUIN Public safety and homelessness require a coordinated approach, with clear responsibilities for every organization involved. The City is responsible for municipal
bylaws, fire services, public spaces, and funding its share of RCMP policing. The RCMP is responsible for law enforcement, while the Province, through BC Housing and health agencies, has responsibilities for housing, mental health, addictions, and related support services. Earlier this year, I proposed a dedicated homelessness task force to bring government agencies, police, service providers, and community representatives together. That proposal did not pass. I would continue pursuing that collaboration, strengthening communication with the RCMP, supporting effective bylaw enforcement, and advocating for provincial resources. Residents and businesses deserve safe public spaces, while people experiencing homelessness need access to appropriate services and support.
PAUL PETROCZI As a City Councillor, I believe we must face our homelessness challenges honestly and acknowledge the growing concerns of residents, businesses, and taxpayers. When we talk about homeless, we must remember that they are people. They are someone’s brother, sister, son or daughter. We must be honest about what works, what is failing, and what needs to change. Merritt’s homeless count rose from 11 in 2018 to 94 in 2025. We cannot continue down this path. Harm Reduction must not come at the expense of public safety and the wellbeing of our community. I have come to question whether some current approaches are producing more harm than good. I call it “Harm Production”. I am also concerned about what I describe as “Homeless Tourism” where services attract people to Merritt without adequate resources to address the resulting negative impacts. Homelessness has become an industry
Continued on page 5
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 5 involving significant public funding, and we must demand accountability, measurable results, and transparency about where the money goes. Merritt cannot continue down this path. Compassion and accountability must go hand in hand. Merritt deserves solutions that work to protect the safety and quality of life of the entire community. Moving forward will require ongoing collaboration between all levels of Government, First Nations with clear accountability from all.
Push on first nations groups to have more involvement in helping out their demographic that are homeless.
MELVINA WHITE
STEVE PIMM Homelessness, drug use, crime, etc. unfortunately usually run hand in hand. Given that it fits under the provincial / federal government umbrellas, cities have very few options. Things that can be done, have bylaw begin to fine the organizations that are supposed to be helping these people that are not and put pressure on them to do better policing of their sites. Put locations like parks, Spirit Square to better use, there for basically increasing pedestrian traffic and business to these areas making it uncomfortable for them to want to be there. Offenders who’s address is not from Merritt, can be sent back to last known city.
As a councillor, I would work with the Mayor and Council to establish a coordinated community-safety plan involving the RCMP, bylaw officers, Interior Health, BC Housing, local First Nations and service organizations. My priorities would be to: - Advocate to the province and responsible agencies for the services, resources and accountability Merritt needs, while ensuring we act within our own authority; - Improve lighting, cleanliness and timely bylaw enforcement in affected areas; - Advocate for treatment, recovery services, supervised daytime support and housing matched to people’s needs; - Seek clear commitments from service providers and their provincial funders, with regular reporting on safety concerns, access to services and housing outcomes; - Give residents and businesses a consistent way to raise concerns and receive follow-up. Homelessness itself is not a crime. We need compassion alongside accountability, and clear responsibilities so residents can see whether our collective efforts are making a difference.
6 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY
VIEWPOINT
LETTERS to the Editor THANKS SHOULD BE FOR ALL, NOT JUST FOR SOME Editor, Re: “Mitra: A lesson in Thanksgiving,” Oct.8;
ART-TASTIC! This week’s art is by Lillian Heppner, age 13! Submit your artwork to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured in print each week!
I, a big fan of Christ’s miracles and fundamental message, would be quite willing/happy to consistently sincerely thank God with every meal, if everyone on Earth — and not just a portion of the planet’s populace — had enough clean, safe drinking water and nutritional food to maintain a normal, healthy daily life. And I genuinely would be prayfully ‘thankful’ if every couple’s child would survive serious illness rather than just some sick children. Furthermore, I can’t help but conclude upon serious consideration that by saying grace before a meal, we, the well fed — because of the bitter reality of large-scale Earthly starvation — are in effect presuming that our Creator has found one portion of the planet’s populace worthy of nourishment while allowing another large portion
to go hungry or even slowly starve to death. Perhaps through their expression of such theistic thanks and praise, some or even many people can consciously or subconsciously experience less guilt regarding obvious global region inequities/inequalities regarding access to the necessities of life. I also wonder about the belief that God ALWAYS answers prayers, albeit sometimes in the negative. I personally don’t find insufferable the concept that God may/does not answer prayers (at least not according to how we mere mortals generally perceive an “answer”). What I find most bewildering, though, is the commonly-held theistic notion that God would enable one praying couple’s child to survive an illness, while allowing another praying couple’s child to perish, even with great suffering.
#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
INDIGENOUS & COMMUNITY STORYTELLING REPORTER Elizabeth Jolicoeur community@merrittherald.com
Franke Sterle White Rock, B.C.
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.
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LETTERS to the Editor cont’d.
CHOPPING OF LOCAL HEALTH PROGRAMS A PROBLEM Editor, Three communities: Merritt, Princeton and Oliver lost facilities and qualified Mental Health staff in recent years. Unfortunately, there was only a gasp - no active protest when these greatly provincially-funded programs were dismantled. Merritt (Club House) and Princeton (The Anchorage) had identifiable positive programs that were for clients with mild to moderate mental health issues. Some had dual diagnoses such as cognitive disabilities as well as mental health concerns. Both offered a drop-in program, three days per week. Clients were referred by their doctors or specialists and could participate within 3-10 days. There were options for cooking, music, art, gym passes, and some grants available for short session vocational training. Free advocacy was available for legal issues/ reaching Federal gov’t, etc. Oliver had a wonderful privately run program called The Painted Door, which repainted furnitire and sold clothing. I’m not aware of their referral process
and specific client health issues. The managers retired after many years in Oliver. Merritt lost their Club House before 2020. I personally was a casualty of these wonderful preventative settings! Princeton went to small group meetings at changing locations. Mental Health offers both there and here offers “Peer Counselling”. If a client is doing well, he or she can get a job thru Mental Health, to counsel another client. I’m sure thousands of dollars are being saved in not hiring competent well- trained clinicians to run positive PREVENTIVE programs. Statistically Suicide is higher for males in smaller communities. Females are next.,in those ares. Sadly I have lost two loved ones, both male to suicide. It personally took me, a Merritt resident, six months to “see” a psychiatrist. Some excellent Zoom trainingwas required to have an appointment. The interview though very helpful, was on Zoom. It’s time to write your MLA! Don’t wait a moment. Eleanor Baker Merritt, B.C.
HUNGER AND STARVATION SHOULD HAVE NO BORDERS Editor, One of the things I struggle with is understanding how geography can determine something as basic as whether a young person gets to eat. I live in Vancouver, where I can open my refrigerator after school and know there will be food waiting for me. In Sudan, children are facing catastrophic levels of malnutrition after more than three years of war, while shrinking humanitarian funding is making it harder for aid organizations to provide the food and nutrition support people desperately need. Nothing about a map makes my hunger more deserving of attention than theirs. Yet, as global hunger has doubled over the past decade, international aid for basic nutrition is projected to decrease by 32% between 2024 and 2026. Humanitarian funding for food assistance fell by 39% in 2025. As a Grade 12 student and an immigrant, I have
John Isaac
250-378-1996
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www.realestatemerritt.com
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M E R R I T T
spent my life seeing how people from different places can make room for one another. My classmates did not care that I came from Hong Kong before welcoming me to Vancouver. My family and friends in Hong Kong did not care that I was growing up in Canada before welcoming me home. I wish our governments approached the world with that same instinct. Budget 2026 is an opportunity for Canada to decide what kind of country we want to be. I urge Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne and Members of Parliament to stop cuts to international aid and reinvest in nutrition, humanitarian assistance, and the fight against global poverty. A child should not have to be born on the right side of a border to have enough food to eat. Bernice Ko Vancouver, B.C.
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 Do you start decorating for the Christmas holidays before December? Have your say at merrittherald.com
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION Do you agree with the Provincial government’s call for a snap election? YES NO
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AFromLOOK BACK the Herald archives OCT. 19, 1994
DOWNTOWN PROJECT IN THE WORKS A proposed downtown development project will soon be available for public view. A public hearing for a shopping mall proposal that covers the CPR land area has been scheduled for Nov. 8. Five to six acres of land is covered by the proposal which, on the site plan, shows eight different retail units. One of those retail units is a supermarket that covers 30,000 sq. ft. with room for an expansion of 10,000 sq. ft. Overwaitea in Merritt only covers 12,000 sq. ft. A liquor store, bank, restaurant, theatre and office space are also listed in the traffic study as part of the proposed development. It further states that the liquor store, Wilderness Video and Granny’s Kitchen, located on the southeast corner of the proposed development, are to be removed to accommodate the new businesses. Access to the site is to be provided from Garcia Street, Coutlee Avenue, Charters Street, Quilchena Avenue and Coldwate Avenue.
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CITY NEWS
OCTOBER 15, 2026
WELCOME BACK
A D U LT LESSONS
NICOLA VALLEY AQUATIC CENTRE
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The Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre is officially re-opened on October 15th! We would like to thank the residents of Merritt for thier patience during the extended shutdown this year. The improvements will ensure the safety of the staff and users for years to come. Welcome back residents of Merritt!
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TRUSTEE CANDIDATES ANSWER: ATTRACTING QUALIFIED TEACHERS TO MERRITT
LARA COUTLEE
unique challenges of rural teaching, while exploring solutions like housing assistance and professional development. Within SD58, we must build an engaging, inclusive workplace where educators feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. We should also invest in growing our own teachers by creating pathways for local people to pursue careers in education and build their futures here. We must work with municipalities and community partners to make our communities welcoming, safe, and vibrant places to live and raise a family. Ultimately, we want teachers to come to SD58 for the opportunity and stay because they feel they belong.
Well, at first I’d ask the teachers if they had input to share. I’d be curious to learn of the existing challenges we have had, in relationship to why we have lost teachers previously. If we have a current good relationship with existing staff, that’s a start. A team happy to be at work, feeling respected and supported by their employer-will create an environment for new hires to feel the same. Support in providing people with information about what Merritt offers and housing opportunities-would strengthen the process.
Attracting qualified teachers to SD58 is important, but retaining them is equally critical. We need to advocate provincially for incentives recognizing the
EXPERIENCE. LEADERSHIP. COMMITMENT TO MERRITT. I work for this community. I am here to serve. With 10 years on Council and four years as Mayor, I bring the experience, leadership, and forward thinking needed to keep Merritt moving forward. During my time in office, I have helped lead significant initiatives, including the $160 million dike repairs and the Middlesboro Bridge restoration. I also established and chair the West Coast Corridor Resilience Partnership, bringing together five other mayors to secure dike mitigation funding through a nationally recognized initiative. I am proud of the fiscal responsibility we have achieved, protecting our reserves while building a sustainable future for our city.
My priorities remain clear: • • • • •
Continuing to fight for healthcare and making our Emergency Room a priority Strengthening community safety through our quarterly Community Safety group Building meaningful relationships with our First Nations community through a Memorandum of Understanding Advancing water conservation and responsible city planning Maintaining transparency, accountability, and responsible budgeting
My door is always open. I have listened to and addressed your questions, and I will continue to do so.
Mike Goetz Experience. Leadership. A commitment to Merritt.
Together, let's keep Merritt moving forward.
250-315-5176
Nicola Valley Transportation Society
LEROY SLANZI
JUSTIN JEPSEN
RE-ELECT MIKE GOETZ
Attracting and retaining qualified teachers starts with creating a school district where people actually want to work. Just as parents research schools before moving to a community, teachers research school districts. They want to know about the culture, leadership, professional support and whether they’ll be valued as educators. The community matters too. Like any professional considering a move, teachers look at housing, recreation and the quality of life Merritt offers.
Continued on page 10
NVTS is currently seeking community-minded individuals to join our Board of Directors. Board members are asked to commit to minimum two-year term and to help guide, maintain, and expand transportation services in our community. If you are interested in getting involved, please email nvtsadmin@telus.net to request an applicaiton form or for more information
Authorized by Mike Goetz
10 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com Finally, we need to be proactive with recruitment. Beyond advertising through platforms like Education Canada and ApplyToEducation, I believe SD58 should be building stronger relationships with teacher education programs at universities like TRU and UBC Okanagan, attending career fairs and connecting with future teachers before they graduate.
GORDON SWAN
strengthen workplace culture, professional support, and community connection rather than compensation alone. Trustees should advocate for retention incentives for teachers who commit to rural districts like the Nicola Valley and Princeton, as well as signing bonuses for hard-to-fill positions such as French Immersion, counselling, trades, science, and special education. Declining enrolment in the region has reduced provincial funding and increased budget pressures, highlighting the need for a rural sustainability grant that recognizes the fixed operating costs. Lastly, to remain competitive, SD58 should prioritize mentorship, leadership development, wellness supports, staff involvement in decision-making, and solutions to housing and recruitment challenges. Retaining experienced teachers will help maintain program quality, strengthen community confidence, and support student achievement during ongoing enrolment decline and organizational change.
With B.C.’s winter tire requirements now in effect, drivers are being encouraged to look beyond the minimum legal standard when preparing their vehicles for winter. B.C. law requires winterrated tires on designated routes from Oct. 1 through March
31, with some mountain and high-snowfall routes covered until April 30. Tires must display either the M+S (mud and snow) marking or the three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol. Road Safety at Work’s annual Winter Driving Safety campaign recommends drivers use the latter, which are designed to remain flexible in
PHOTO/CONTRIBUTED
Filmmaker Elijah Chenoweth, wearing a red hoodie, is pictured with the cast (left) and crew (right) of his short film ADANAC, which screened at the fifth annual Stseptékwles re Sk’elép (Coyote Stories) Indigenous Film Festival. community@merrittherald. com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
WINTER TIRE SEASON NOW IN EFFECT ON HIGHWAYS JAKE COURTEPATTE
TELLING STORIES THROUGH FILM
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
Given the constraints of collective bargaining, SD58 should focus on attraction and retention strategies that
newsroom@ merrittherald.com
FRIENDS & Neighbours
cold temperatures and provide better grip on snowy and icy roads. “Winter tires aren’t just for snow,” said Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work. “They give you more grip and control when temperatures drop below 7C, which can happen long before the first snowfall.” While M+S tires meet the legal
requirement, Road Safety at Work says they are intended for milder winter conditions and may provide less traction as temperatures fall. Four winterrated tires should also be installed rather than mixing winter and non-winter tires, which can affect vehicle stability and control.
Elijah Chenoweth grew up in East Vancouver, but the stories behind his
filmmaking stretch through generations of his family and back into the Nicola Valley. The 22-year-old screenwriter, actor and director recently had his film ADANAC screened at the fifth annual
“Friendly, professional service, from people who care.”
Indigenous Film Festival in Kamloops, bringing his work closer to his family’s roots in Spaxomin. His father, Matthew NICOLA VALLEY: continued on page 10
Serving the community for over 50 years.
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COLDWATER BAND OBJECTS AS PIPELINE ADVANCES JAKE COURTEPATTE
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The Coldwater Indian Band says the federal government is moving ahead with a proposed third Trans Mountain pipeline through the Coldwater Valley, while failing to resolve a decades-old dispute over the company’s existing use of reserve lands. Canada announced Oct. 1 that the proposed West Coast Oil Pipeline, also known as Line 3, had been designated a “national interest” project under the federal Building Canada Act. The designation advances the project despite objections from Coldwater, which says the federal government failed to meaningfully consult the community before making its decision. Hundreds of kilometres of the proposed pipeline would cross Nlaka’pamux territory, including the Coldwater Valley near Merritt. Coldwater Vice-Chief Michael Smithers said the band was angered by the decision, particularly because the federal government has yet to resolve what the band describes as unauthorized and
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outdated arrangements governing Trans Mountain’s historic pipeline through its reserve. “There is anger in our community today, as we hear that Canada has given the green light to a third Trans Mountain pipeline through the Coldwater Valley,” said Smithers. “The Crown’s duty to consult and accommodate Coldwater remains unfilled and Canada and Trans Mountain are not legally or respectfully operating in our reserve.” The proposed Line 3 would be Trans Mountain’s third pipeline through the Coldwater Valley. The company’s original pipeline, known as Line 1, cuts through Coldwater’s primary residential reserve and has been the subject of a long-running dispute involving the band, Trans Mountain and the federal government. A second pipeline, the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, was completed in 2024 following years of legal challenges, including opposition from the Band. The THERE IS ANGER: continued on page 13
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‘THERE IS ANGER IN OUR COMMUNITY TODAY’ COLDWATER BAND: continued from page 12
route was ultimately changed to avoid the community’s aquifer. The Band says it is now being asked to consider another major pipeline project while longstanding issues surrounding the original pipeline remain unresolved. Decades-old pipeline dispute The roots of the dispute date back to 1955, when Canada authorized the use of Coldwater reserve lands for oil pipeline purposes. At the time, the band received a one-time payment of $1,292 for use of the reserve. Coldwater says the original arrangement no longer reflects the value of the land or the impacts of a pipeline running through the community. The band has sought updated terms governing the pipeline’s operation, including measures to minimize impacts on reserve lands and greater consideration for cultural and traditional practices, as well as updated compensation. In 2017, the Federal Court of Appeal sided with Coldwater and ordered the federal government to properly consider modernized terms for the pipeline’s continued use of the reserve, in accordance with Canada’s fiduciary obligations to the band.
That issue remains unresolved nearly a decade later. The band subsequently launched legal action against Canada and Trans Mountain in 2025, alleging that the federal government has breached its fiduciary obligations by allowing the pipeline to continue operating without modernized terms. “What we are asking for is pretty basic,” said Smithers. “We want Canada to fulfill its fiduciary obligations, to ensure the pipeline operates in a way that minimizes impacts on our community, and to receive a fair share, not the pennies we were paid in the 1950s.” Concerns over consultation
The process used by the federal government to designate Line 3 as a project of national interest has also come under objection by the Band, in what they describe as “a three-month consultation process” before making the Oct. 1 decision. However, two of those months coincided with a devastating wildfire season that resulted in evacuation orders and alerts affecting Coldwater reserves. The band says it requested additional time to properly identify and respond to concerns once it was able to engage with the proposal, but says those requests were not addressed. Smithers said the designation effectively moves the project forward before the potential impacts on
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Coldwater’s rights have been fully considered. “The listing decision effectively approves the pipeline subject to conditions to be worked out over the next twelve months but closes the door to any possibility that the project shouldn’t be built because of impacts on our rights or its failure to advance our interests,” he said. Concerns have compounded about further industrial development in the Valley with the impacts of recent climate emergencies, including the 2021 atmospheric river event and wildfires. “Our community has been ravaged by climate emergencies,” said Smithers. “These impacts compound with harms from existing development and raise a serious question about whether our territory, our valley, and our rights can survive the impact of another major pipeline.” The federal designation is subject to conditions that Canada says will be finalized over the next year. Coldwater says it will consider whether legal or other action is necessary in response to the Line 3 decision in the coming weeks. The proposed West Coast Oil Pipeline is part of a broader federal effort to identify major infrastructure and energy projects considered to be in the national interest. For Coldwater Indian Band, however, the announcement has revived a much older question: why the federal government can move quickly to advance another pipeline while the band continues to wait for the government to resolve its obligations surrounding the first one.
14 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
BAPTIST FESTIVAL ROCKS LOGAN LAKE
Local and experienced
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Legal services for your family and your business. Real Estate | Wills & Estate | Business Ben van der Gracht
250-374-3344 ext 244 bvandergracht@morellichertkow.com
Jacob M. Brown
250-374-3344 ext 264 jbrown@morellichertkow.com PHOTO/LEVI HARDER
Live music was among the activities at Rock Baptist Church’s second annual Fall Festival in Logan Lake, which drew an estimated 100 to 120 attendees.
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald. com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Families gathered at Rock Baptist Church in Logan Lake for its second annual Fall Festival, with games, food, live music and activities bringing an estimated 100 to 120 people through the event. “Sunday was our Fall Festival here at Rock Baptist Church,” said Levi Harder. “We had carnival games, inflatables, prizes, and live music, and Shelly’s Bannock Truck came out to serve food. It was a great day for families and for anyone who wanted to come hang out.” The event was organized and run by members of the church, with approximately 15 to 20 volunteers helping make the day possible. “We as a church want to
see our community thrive in all aspects of life,” Harder said. “The festival was a chance to bring people together, have some fun, and just be a blessing to Logan Lake. Everyone was welcome, whether they come to church or not.” This was the second year Rock Baptist has held the Fall Festival after launching the community event last year. Harder said organizers hope to continue it in the years ahead. He estimated between 100 and 120 people attended, with families taking part in the different activities throughout the day. “People seemed to really enjoy themselves, and it was great to see so many families out together,” he said. For Harder, the live music stood out as a highlight of the event. “For me it was the live
music,” he said. “It’s always a treat, and people seemed to really enjoy it.” The festival is one of several ways the church has been working to connect with the wider Logan Lake community. Along with its Sunday service, Rock Baptist runs a youth group and money course and hosts a back to school breakfast for the community on the first day of school. “We love being able to serve our community and be a blessing in people’s lives,” Harder said. “We try to invest in kids’ lives, help meet needs in the community as they come up, and share who Jesus is and why it matters to know Him.” With its second Fall Festival now complete, Harder said the church plans to continue organizing community events in Logan Lake.
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 15
BUSINESS IN A TWO-SPEED WORLD
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
From the shops along Quilchena Avenue to the service providers and entrepreneurs working throughout the Nicola Valley,
small businesses play an important role in keeping Merritt’s economy moving. Small Business Week, running Oct. 19 to 25, offers an opportunity to recognize those businesses, consider the challenges they face and look at how residents,
We want to thank our customers for their continuing support
FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR OVER
40 YEARS
community organizations and local governments can help them succeed. Organized nationally by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), the annual celebration brings attention to Canadian entrepreneurship while providing business owners with opportunities to learn, network and explore ways to grow. This year’s theme, “It’s a two-speed world now — fast or finished,” focuses on the pressure businesses face to adapt to a rapidly changing economy. Topics include artificial intelligence, productivity, business succession, labour challenges and opportunities created by major projects. For small businesses in communities such as Merritt, keeping up with those changes can be particularly challenging when owners must balance rising
operating costs, staffing, marketing and day-to-day customer service. Unlike large retailers, independent businesses may have fewer resources to invest in new technology, expand their operations or absorb unexpected expenses. However, they also offer something important to their communities: locally rooted services, employment opportunities and a direct connection between business owners and the people they serve. Supporting businesses close to home According to the BDC, one of the simplest ways residents can support local businesses is by making a conscious effort
RECOGNIZING: continued on page 21
Our mission is to provide a wide range of quality JUSTICE and ADVOCACY services to the people of the Nicola Valley, with an emphasis on addressing the individual needs of Indigenous clients and those living in poverty.
Programs are: • The Advocacy Centre • The Restorative Justice Program • The Indigenous Court Navigator • The Family Mediation & Justice Services
NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY JUSTICE SERVICES SOCIETY 250-378-4943
email: nicplumb@telus.net
2064 Coutlee Ave.
1999 Garcia Street, Merritt, BC
Phone: 250-378-5010
16 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
SHINING A LIGHT ON OUR LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS The Herald spoke to some local business owners about their craft. and occasionally unpaid business consultants! With costs rising faster than foam on a bad pour, keeping things affordable is a challenge. We know dollars are tight and genuinely appreciate Merritt choosing us. We make the beer, but our community makes the Brew House!
Dr. Denison, Dr. Elsayyad and our dedicated team are committed to providing the highest level of dental care in a professional, relaxed setting.
We want to thank our customers for their continuing support
250-378-4943
Kyle Hall - Empty Keg Brew House Q: How long have you been in business? A: We opened in May 2019. Ten months later, COVID arrived and apparently threw our business plan in the dumpster! Thanks to Merritt’s incredible support, we survived. Visitors are still amazed Merritt has its own craft brewery. We call ourselves Merritt’s best-kept secret — although we wish people would stop keeping it a secret! Q: What is the story of why you decided to open your business? A: We wanted to bring something different to Merritt — locally crafted beer, family-friendly fun, and actual face-to-face conversations. Imagine that, socializing without a screen! We’ve created a place where strangers become friends, friends become regulars, and regulars eventually think they own the place! Q: What’s the best part of being a small business owner? A: Our customers have become friends
Dana Egan - Grand Pub & Grill Q: How long have you been in business? A: Our family has been in the hospitality industry in Merritt since 1963. We first owned the Coldwater Hotel and lived in it til our house was completed by Christmas that year. In 1974, we sold that hotel as my dad wanted a full faculty hotel and were fortunate to buy the Valnicola Motor Hotel that same year. After a few years of retirement my parents, along with my brother, Patrick, purchased the Grand Hotel in 1996. They renovated it and renamed it The Grand Pub & Grill. I moved back to Merritt in 2000. This year marks our 30th year here. The theme in our decor is ‘turn of the 19th Century’ so yes, it’s rustic! The building was built in 1930 so we want to show off its history.
Continued on page 17
email: nicplumb@telus.net
2064 Coutlee Ave.
FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR OVER
40 YEARS
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 17
Locally owned. Community trusted.
Q: What is the story of why you decided to open your business? A: For as long as I can remember we have been in the hospitality industry. My father, Jack, was an entertainer, my mother, Valerie, held the design factors and both Ric and Pat, my brothers were and still are major players in the office & customer relations. I went off to University right after grade 12 and got a degree in Recreation Administration from the University of Alberta having attended other universities and colleges prior to that. I lived in Kelowna for 10 years working for a pub and a golf course, then I took a 2 year leave to North Vancouver where I received a Diploma as a Legal Assistant. I went back to Kelowna and worked for a few different law firms. The draw to own my own pub was still strong so I had already been looking at pubs in other small communities. Then the offer to come back to Merritt and be a part of our family business came. I always felt Merritt was home, my son was just 4 then and I thought moving him back to Merritt to be around family was the best decision. Q: What’s the best part of being a small business owner? A: The best part of being a small business owner are the customers. Generally everyone is in a good mood when they visit to eat great food! Good Food, Good Service, Grand Times! I have my Chef, Don Barron, and his Team to thank for that. I have Treena Anderson, my Front of House Manager, and her Staff, to thank for that. Every staff member contributes so much to the success of our business and I am so proud of them all. I thank my office assistants Ollie Harasym and Deb Shuba, who make it possible for me to take time off. We all work hard and lately, have been working harder as we are short staffed. We hope to have this rectified soon. In short, being in charge of a business gives you the opportunity to create…. And I hope that we have given our community something to be proud of. Over the last 26 years, we have given back to our community in many ways: sponsoring teams & events and helping schools, groups and organizations raise funds through our Steak Dinner fundraisers. If you haven’t been to the Grand Pub you are missing something special.
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Blaine Martens - Black’s Pharmacy Q: How long have you been in business? A: Black’s Pharmacy has been a pharmacy for over 70 years, named as Black’s Pharmacy for nearly 55 years. Q: What is the story of why you decided to open your business? A: After being a pharmacist for 10 years I wanted to run a pharmacy how I felt it would best serve the community and each individual patient to improve their health. Danielle and I have proudly served the Nicola Valley for 12 years now. A year ago we brought on another like-minded partner, Jeff Lawrence, who has enabled our business to continue providing the same great service as our business grows. We have two other fantastic pharmacists, Theresa Pearson and Kendra Sundher, who have been with us for more than 3 years helping us meet our patient’s health needs.
2074 Quilchena Ave. P.O. Box 2413 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-378-0813
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Thank you for your support of Small Businesses in the Nicola Valley
Q: What’s the best part of being a small business owner? A: I enjoy seeing our business grow through the trust of our patients in their health needs.
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18 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
SMALL BUSINESS AND ELECTED OFFICIALS: WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CANDIDATE
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
With a pair of elections quickly approaching, Merritt and the Nicola Valley voters have an opportunity to consider how the candidates they elect will affect the independent businesses that help keep our community running, as well as stimulate a slowing local ecnomy. Residents will head to the polls this Saturday to vote for city hall for the next four years, with eight candidates on the ballot for six councillor positions and two with their name in for mayor. Provincially, B.C. returns to the poll one week later on Oct. 24, with incumbent Conservative Tony Luck in the FraserNicola battling two new opponents for the NDP and Greens. From municipal property taxes and business regulations to provincial payroll costs and taxation, decisions made at both levels of government can influence whether small businesses can afford to stay open, hire employees and invest in their futures. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), which represents more than 10,000 small businesses in British Columbia, has outlined five priorities it wants provincial parties and candidates to address ahead of the busy election period. Its recommendations come as 78 per
cent of B.C. small-business owners surveyed identified rising prices and the cost of doing business as a high priority for government, while 72 per cent said the same about reducing the overall tax burden. The organization’s August 2026 survey also found that more than one in four B.C. small businesses described their condition as weak or critical, while 56 per cent of owners said they would not recommend starting a business at the time. For voters who want to support small businesses, those findings offer a starting point for evaluating candidates’ promises. What should voters ask municipal candidates? Merritt’s municipal election on Oct. 17 will determine who sits on council for the next four years. While provincial politicians control many of the taxes and employment rules affecting businesses, municipal governments have their own influence over the local business environment. 1) Property taxes and affordability: Voters can ask candidates how they would manage commercial property taxes, municipal fees and other costs that affect businesses operating in Merritt. CFIB has VOTING FOR: continued on page 19
WHO WE ARE: We are a professional accounting firm serving clients in Merritt, Princeton and South Central British Columbia. Our team is dedicated to providing our clients with professional, personalized services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Being located in a small town community we can offer a more personalized and empathetic service as we can truly call the majority of our clients Friends. It’s something you wouldn’t receive from a random accountant or bookkeeper. We are a paperless office, which decreases our impact on the environment. We have the only Certified Professional Bookkeeper in Merritt, which significantly increases the quality of the bookkeeping that we offer. We realize that every business and person are unique and we treat everyone as the unique business / person that they are. We rock your bottom line. Including but not limited to: Personal and Corporate Taxes, Bookkeeping, Payroll, Business Startup and Merges, QuickBooks Pro Advisors (Both Desktop and Online) and Tax Planning. We will help you to meet all deadlines for remittances such as; Payroll, GST, PST, WCB, Source Deduction and more. We handle all Canada Revenue Agency and Ministry of Finance Correspondence.
Carrie Ware, BSc, CPA, CA Chartered Professional Accountant Firm
2032 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC Tel: 250-378-2215 Fax: 250-378-6061
www.carrieware.ca
VOTING FOR A STRONGER LOCAL ECONOMY SMALL BUSINESS: continued from page 18 called on the province to allow municipalities to establish a separate small-business property tax subclass within the commercial property class, with relief reaching small-business tenants. 2) Red tape and permitting: How quickly can a business owner expect a permit, licence or development application to be processed? Candidates should be prepared to explain how they would make municipal processes more predictable, reduce unnecessary paperwork and communicate clearly with applicants without compromising public safety or other legitimate requirements. 3) Crime and public safety: Theft, vandalism and concerns about staff and customer safety can create additional expenses for independent businesses. CFIB’s research found that 60 per cent of B.C. small-business owners were concerned about their own safety and that of their employees and customers. Voters can ask municipal candidates what practical steps they would take to address business-related crime and improve coordination with police and other agencies. 4) Downtown vitality and construction: Road closures, infrastructure work and difficult access can affect customer traffic and sales. Candidates should be able to explain how the city would communicate construction timelines, maintain access to businesses where possible and support a downtown where residents want to shop, eat and spend time. 5) Accountability for spending: Supporting businesses does not necessarily mean demanding the lowest possible taxes regardless of the consequences. Voters can ask candidates how they would balance tax affordability with the infrastructure, public safety and services that help businesses operate successfully. What about the provincial election? The provincial election, scheduled for Oct. 24, will determine who sets many of the broader rules governing the cost of doing business in B.C. CFIB is calling on all parties and candidates to commit to five priorities. First, it wants the small-business
corporate income tax rate reduced from two per cent toward zero by 2030, alongside an increase in the small-business deduction threshold from $500,000 to $700,000, indexed to inflation. Second, it wants payroll costs controlled by raising the Employer Health Tax exemption threshold from $1 million to $1.5 million, indexed to inflation, and providing relief for the cost of employer-paid sick days. Third, CFIB is calling for less unnecessary government red tape, including predictable response times for permits and licences and a proposed rule requiring two regulations to be removed for every new one introduced. Fourth, it wants the province to develop a credible, multi-year plan to eliminate its projected deficit without introducing new taxes or costs for small businesses. Finally, the organization wants the province to permanently repeal its planned expansion of the provincial sales tax to certain professional services, rather than leave the measure paused under a temporary regulation. Small businesses need more than slogans The issues extend beyond taxes and paperwork. CFIB also identified public safety, energy costs and the effects of major construction projects as concerns for businesses across the province. Its research found that 52 per cent of B.C. small-business owners believed crime in their community had increased over the previous year. Meanwhile, 83 per cent said they were concerned energy costs would hurt their business over the next 12 months. Candidates can be asked to identify their priorities, explain what falls within their jurisdiction, outline how proposed measures would be funded and describe how residents could judge whether their commitments had been fulfilled. Small businesses are important not only as places to shop, but also as employers and contributors to community events, charities and the local economy. As voters consider their choices this month, looking to specific policies, costs and commitments can help determine which candidates have a plan to support the businesses that keep Merritt moving.
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 19
Legal guidance you can trust. Serving Merritt for all your legal needs. Let’s talk. - Jacob Brown
jbrown@morellichertkow.com | 250-374-3344 ext 264
Small Business Week October 19 - 24 2026
A familiar name, with local Canadian ownership and community roots. “Small businesses are built on more than products and services, they are built on people, relationships and community. At Dairy Queen, we are proud to be part of the moments, celebrations and smiles that bring the Nicola Valley together.
Thank you for supporting local.” 3673 DeWolf Way, Merritt BC • 250-378-5030
20 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
COMMUNITY FUTURES NICOLA VALLEY HELPING TURN BUSINESS IDEAS INTO REALITY newsroom@merrittherald.com
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For people looking to start a business or take an existing operation to the next level, getting the right advice and financing can be one of the biggest hurdles. Community Futures Nicola Valley aims to help local entrepreneurs overcome those challenges, offering business loans, planning assistance and financial counselling to people across Merritt and the surrounding Nicola Valley. Established in 1989, the non-profit organization works to strengthen the region’s economy by helping residents develop local solutions to economic challenges. Its service area includes Merritt, Aspen Grove, Brookmere, Douglas Lake, Lower Nicola and Quilchena. While banks remain an important source of financing, Community Futures can provide another option for entrepreneurs who have difficulty securing a loan through traditional lenders. The organization can also work alongside financial institutions and other organizations to help assemble financing for a business. But its services extend beyond lending. Community Futures Nicola Valley provides assistance
with business plans, cash-flow projections, operational and financial counselling, and other technical advice to help entrepreneurs make informed decisions about their ventures. That support can be valuable at several stages of a business’s life, whether someone is developing an idea, preparing to open their doors, expanding an established operation or working through financial and operational challenges. The organization’s work is part of a broader effort to encourage community-based economic growth in rural areas, where entrepreneurs may have fewer resources readily available than their counterparts in larger urban centres. A local example of that support is Shelly’s Catering & Bannock, an Indigenous food-truck business launched by Shelly Davis in Merritt. According to Community Futures British Columbia’s 2024-25 annual report, Davis received help developing a business plan and sales forecast, along with marketing guidance and startup advice. Financing from Community Futures helped her purchase a food trailer, a pickup truck to tow it and additional startup supplies and capital.
The report said the business subsequently secured catering contracts in Merritt and the Thompson-Nicola region, with Davis looking to hire additional employees as demand grew. The example illustrates how business counselling and financing can work together: funding helps entrepreneurs acquire the equipment they need, while planning and advice help them prepare to operate and grow. Community Futures Nicola Valley is governed by a volunteer board of directors and receives core funding through Pacific Economic Development Canada, a federal government agency. The organization also participates in broader community economic development initiatives, including work supporting local non-profit organizations involved in tourism, arts and culture, and community vitality. For entrepreneurs who may not know where to begin, Community Futures offers a local point of contact to discuss a business idea, explore financing options and determine what planning may be needed before taking the next step.
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RECOGNIZING ENTREPRENEURS ALL YEAR ROUND BUSINESS: continued from page 15
to shop locally when possible. Purchasing goods and services from businesses locally can help keep money circulating within the community, supporting local employment and contributing to the commercial activity that makes a town viable. That support can extend beyond making purchases. Residents can recommend local businesses to friends, leave online reviews, follow their social media pages and share information about their products and services. For businesses competing for attention online, those actions can help them reach customers they might otherwise struggle to attract. However, supporting small businesses is not solely a consumer responsibility. Access to financing, business advice, workforce development and a supportive regulatory environment can also influence whether a business is able to establish itself, remain open or expand. Resources available in the Nicola Valley Community Futures Nicola Valley is one local organization that works to support entrepreneurs and small- and mediumsized businesses. The non-profit organization provides business lending, counselling and economic development services to residents and businesses in Merritt and surrounding communities. Its services can help entrepreneurs explore business ideas, develop plans, access financing and work through challenges associated with operating a business. Community Futures can also be a resource for established businesses looking to expand or for entrepreneurs considering purchasing an existing operation. The City of Merritt also maintains business resources and provides economic development support, while the Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce serves as another connection point for the local business community.
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 21
Together, these organizations provide avenues for entrepreneurs to seek guidance, explore opportunities and connect with resources that may help them succeed. A conversation for local leaders With municipal elections taking place this fall, Small Business Week also presents an opportunity to consider how local policy affects the business community. Questions surrounding commercial property taxation, permitting, downtown development, public safety, infrastructure and the overall attractiveness of Merritt as a place to do business are relevant to entrepreneurs and residents alike. For voters who want to see local businesses thrive, candidates’ approaches to economic development may be worth examining alongside their positions on other community issues. That includes asking how the City can make it easier to open and operate a business, attract new investment without overlooking existing businesses, and encourage residents and visitors to spend money locally. Small businesses also need to adapt to changing consumer habits and technology. Finding ways to improve their online presence, adopt useful digital tools and connect with new customers could be increasingly important in the years ahead. BDC’s Small Business Week programming will address some of those challenges through events and learning opportunities scheduled across Canada during the week. Ultimately, Small Business Week is about more than recognizing entrepreneurs for a few days in October. It is a reminder that a healthy local economy depends on businesses being able to find customers, access support and build a future in the communities they serve. For Merritt, that means recognizing the contribution of local entrepreneurs and considering what residents, organizations and elected officials can do to help them remain part of the Nicola Valley’s economic future.
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LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION We are located at: 2025 Granite Ave & 1951 B Garcia Street, Merritt, BC Call: 250-378-1864 & 250-378-6808 Email: printing@kentem.ca
22 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
STUDY FINDS AI FAVOURS BIG RETAILERS, HIGHLIGHTS NEED TO SUPPORT SMALL JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
As shoppers increasingly turn to artificial intelligence (AI) to find products and decide where to spend their money, new research suggests small businesses may be at a disadvantage — making community support more important than ever. A study commissioned by Montreal-based commerce technology company Lightspeed Commerce and conducted by AI research consultancy Vaer AI found that artificial intelligence systems overwhelmingly favour major retailers over smaller competitors when recommending where to shop. The research analysed approximately 460,000 AI-generated responses and more than 2.4 million links across platforms including ChatGPT, Google AI Mode, Google AI Overviews and Gemini. Researchers used more than 20,000 shopping prompts to examine how AI recommends retailers. According to the findings, AI selected a national chain over a smaller retailer between 90 and 94 per cent of the time in direct comparisons when relying on
its own training data. Even when live web searches were enabled, national chains continued to dominate recommendations. The findings raise questions about how independent businesses can compete as consumers increasingly rely on digital tools to discover products and services. For communities such as Merritt, where independent businesses contribute to the local economy and help shape the downtown core, the research offers another reminder of the importance of making a conscious effort to shop locally. Consumers can make a difference
The study’s accompanying survey of 2,000 North American consumers found that 56 per cent had already used AI to help make shopping decisions. Half of respondents said they would be more likely to shop locally if AI made nearby independent retailers easier to discover. Meanwhile, 33 per cent believed AI should prioritize small or local businesses in shopping recommendations, compared with 13 per cent who felt large brands should receive priority. Researchers also found that a simple change in how
consumers phrase their questions could make a difference. In a controlled follow-up test, adding the word “independent” to shopping prompts reduced the share of recommendations going to major national chains from approximately 44 per cent to as little as nine per cent, while more than doubling the number of small and local businesses named. The researchers recommend that shoppers specifically ask AI tools for “locally owned” or “independent” retailers when looking for a product or service. The results suggest consumers can take a more active role in discovering businesses that might otherwise be overlooked by automated recommendations. Keeping spending in the community While online shopping and AI-powered searches offer convenience, supporting small businesses can begin with everyday decisions, from purchasing gifts and household goods locally to choosing independent MAINTAINING ONLINE: continued on page 23
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 23
MAINTAINING ONLINE PRESENCE NECESSARY FOR SMALL BUSINESS STUDY FINDS: continued from page 22 restaurants and service providers. For Merritt residents, that can mean checking what is available in town before ordering from a large online retailer, recommending local businesses to friends and family, and sharing positive experiences online. Small businesses also face the challenge of maintaining a visible online presence as shopping habits change. Accurate business listings, updated websites and clear descriptions of products and services can help customers find them through conventional search engines and AI-powered tools. The research does not establish how often Merritt businesses specifically are overlooked by AI, but it highlights a
broader challenge for independent retailers competing for consumer attention. As technology continues to influence how people shop, the choice to support local businesses remains in the hands of consumers. A recommendation from an AI tool may determine which store a shopper discovers first, but it does not have to determine where that shopper ultimately spends their money.
At the Legion, we are guided by three pillars: Remember, Join & Give Dart Night: Tuesdays at 6:30 pm (sign-up 6:00pm)
& Meat Draw: Saturdays at 2:30pm
Our Mission
The Royal Canadian Legion/BC Yukon Command is a non-profit organization consisting of 149 Branches, 80 Ladies' Auxiliaries and nearly 55,000 members. We are one of the foremost and most respected community service organizations in Canada, serving veterans, ex-service personnel, seniors, youth and many aspects of community life. Remembering allows us to reflect and honour long-term veterans and their families, and to be here to support a new generation of veterans. Joining is all about membership and volunteering—the Legion is where belonging matters, and where you can make a real difference with your time and talent. Giving means saying “Thank You” and “I care about my community”—with your cheque book, credit card—even your cell phone! Your financial contributions make a world of difference.
Join Now! Contact for Details. Branch #96, 1940 Quilchena Ave, Merritt Phone: 250-378-5631 or 250-315-9148
e-mail: legion096@outlook.com
PROFESSIONAL LAND SURVEYORS & GEOMATICS ENGINEERS
T: 250-372-8835 | E: kamloops@underhill.ca
KAMLOOPS | WHITEHORSE | VANCOUVER | VANCOUVER ISLAND | FORT ST JOHN
underhill.ca
24 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
VOTE IN THE PROVINCIAL ELECTION The 2026 Provincial General Election is on Saturday, October 24, 2026. WHO CAN VOTE
WAYS TO VOTE
You can vote in the 2026 Provincial General Election if you are: • a Canadian citizen, • 18 or older on October 24, 2026, and • a resident of British Columbia since April 23, 2026.
VOTER REGISTRATION Register now to save time when you vote. You can register or update your information at elections.bc.ca/register or by calling 1-800-661-8683. You can also register when you go to vote. Remember to bring ID that shows your name and home address when you vote. See elections.bc.ca/id for a list of acceptable ID.
Vote at a district electoral office Voting at district electoral offices is available now during office hours until 4 p.m. (Pacific time) on Final Voting Day. Advance Voting You can vote in advance from Friday, October 16 to Wednesday, October 21. Advance voting places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time).
Vote by mail You can ask for a vote-by-mail package by: • Visiting elections.bc.ca/votebymail • Calling Elections BC at 1-800-661-8683 Your vote-by-mail package will be mailed to you. Request a vote-by-mail package as soon as possible to make sure you can receive and return it on time. For information about other voting options, visit elections.bc.ca.
Voters can vote at any advance voting location. Visit wheretovote.elections.bc.ca to find advance voting places and the dates they are open.
WORK IN THE PROVINCIAL ELECTION
Final Voting Day Final Voting Day is Saturday, October 24. Voting places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Pacific time). Voters have an assigned voting location on Final Voting Day.
Election jobs are available across the province. Visit elections.bc.ca/jobs for more information.
WHERE AND WHEN TO VOTE Voting Places for Fraser-Nicola Advance Voting Places (open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m local time on the dates listed)
Open Dates Fri, Oct 16
Sat, Oct 17
Agassiz Agricultural Assn Hall, 6800 Pioneer Ave, Kent, BC
Sun, Oct 18
Mon, Oct 19
Tue, Oct 20
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Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley, 47585 Trans-Canada Hwy, Boston Bar, BC Leq’á:mel Comm Hall, 43101 Leq’a:mel Way, Lake Errock, BC Lillooet & District Rec Centre, 930 Main St, Lillooet, BC Logan Lake Sec School, 50 Ponderosa Ave, Logan Lake, BC Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, 4155 Belshaw St, Merritt, BC Royal Canadian Legion Branch 228, 344 Fort St, Hope, BC Village of Lytton - Parish Hall, 140 7th St, Lytton, BC
@ElectionsBC
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 25
VOTE IN THE PROVINCIAL ELECTION Voting Places for Fraser-Nicola Final Voting Places (open 8 a .m . to 8 p.m. Pacific time on Saturday, October 24, 2026)
District Electoral Office
Aggassiz Pavilion, 6790 Pioneer Ave, Kent, BC
Leq’á:mel Comm Hall, 43101 Leq’a:mel Way, Lake Errock, BC
Shackan Comm Hall, 4943 Potatoeillshie Rd, Merritt, BC
Battlefield Comm Centre, 1756 Battlefield Rd, Lytton, BC
Lillooet & District Rec Centre, 930 Main St, Lillooet, BC
Shxw’ohamel First Nation Gym, 58700A St Elmo Rd, Laidlaw, BC
Canyon Lanes Bowling Alley, 47585 Trans-Canada Hwy, Boston Bar, BC
Logan Lake Sec School, 50 Ponderosa Ave, Logan Lake, BC
Silver Creek Elem School, 63831 School Rd, Hope, BC
Fraser-Nicola 1976 Quilchena Ave Merritt, BC (778) 661-0610
Coldwater Comm Hall, 109 400th St, Merritt, BC
Lower Nicola Comm Hall, 2383 Aberdeen Mine Rd, Lower Nicola, BC
Spences Bridge Comm Hall, 3641 8 Hwy, Spences Bridge, BC
Dewdney Elem School, 37151 Hawkins Pickle Rd, Dewdney, BC
Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, 4155 Belshaw St, Merritt, BC
Ts’kw’aylaxw First Nation Health Bldg, 35100 99 Hwy, Pavilion, BC
Elder’s Lodge - Seton Lake/Tsal’alh Band, 600 Sk’il Mountain Rd, Shalalth, BC
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 5A and Douglas Lake Rd, Quilchena, BC
Upper Nicola N’kwala School, 9410 Nkwala Rd, Douglas Lake, BC
Gold Bridge Comm Centre, 699 Gun Lake Rd W, Gold Bridge, BC
Rocky Pines Centre, 2790 Cougar Cres, Lower Nicola, BC
Xaxli’p Admin Office, 1433 Fountain Valley Rd, Fountain, BC
Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa, 100 Esplanade Ave, Harrison Hot Springs, BC
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 228, 344 Fort St, Hope, BC
Yale Comm Centre, 65050 Albert St, Yale, BC
Harrison Mills Comm Hall, 1995 School Rd, Kent, BC
Seabird Island Millennium Hall, 2736 Sq’ewqel Dr, Kent, BC
Hours of Operation (local time) Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advance voting days 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Candidates for Fraser-Nicola Candidate’s Name
Affiliation
Jason Leboe
BC NDP
Tony Luck
Conservative Party
Patrick Michell
BC Green Party
For candidate financial agent and official agent information, visit elections.bc.ca/candidates.
@ElectionsBC
26 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
BUSY MONTH FOR ARTS COUNCIL
PHOTO/CONTRIBUTED
Leonard George’s mural on the side of the Kekuli Cafe building.
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald.com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Nicola Valley Arts Council is filling October with local art, community exhibitions and the completion of a new
mural in Merritt. The TRYART exhibition was hosted earlier this month, featuring work from six participating artists and adding another collection of locally displayed artwork to the Arts Council’s fall programming. Another community focused exhibition followed on Oct. 7, this time highlighting work by Community Living Society members as part of Community Living Month. The Arts Council is also preparing to celebrate the completion of a new piece of public art in Merritt. Artist Leonard George has completed a mural on the Kekuli wall, adding to the public artwork found around the community. Between TRYART, the Breezeway Art Show and George’s completed mural, the Arts Council’s early October programming includes work from local artists, Community Living Society members and a new addition to Merritt’s public art. The three projects also bring art into different settings, from gallery exhibitions and community programming to a mural that will remain part of Merritt’s public landscape.
NICOLA VALLEY
SPORTS
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | 27
GOT SPORTS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
AQUATIC CENTRE TO THREE IN A ROW FOR CENTS RE-OPEN THIS WEEK JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
The Merritt Centennials are on an early season hot streak after another shootout victory. Fresh off a 6-5 nailbiter with the rival Princeton Posse at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, the team travelled to Summerland to take on the Jets on Oct. 9
looking for their third win in a row. The goaltending stole the show in a game that only saw two goals in regulation, both in the second period with Merritt’s coming from Ryker Swanson. Noah Lawless had the only success in the shootout to give Merritt the extra point. The Cents host the Nelson Leafs this Friday at the NVMA.
BAEK’S TAEKWONDO FINDS PODIUM PHOTO/CONTRIBUTED
PHOTO/ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
The Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre re-opens this fall after extensive renovations.
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald. com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Renovations at the Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre remain ongoing, with a re-opening date now set for Oct. 15. “Currently everything is still on track,” said Connor Sucharyna, aquatic supervisor with the City of Merritt. While residents will be itching to get back in the water, programming has been scheduled to begin
in November. Sucharyna said the November schedule was chosen to allow the maximum amount of time anticipated for the renovation work. Programs have already been advertised through city social media, newspaper advertisements and the city website in an effort to generate interest and registrations ahead of the facility’s return. The pool itself, however, will be able to welcome swimmers back before those programs begin. “There is a strong
possibility that the pool could open sooner than when the programs are scheduled to begin but there are multiple factors that play a part in determining the reopening date,” Sucharyna said. The city is also waiting before releasing further information and photographs showing the work completed inside the facility. The November program schedule, however, provides residents with a general indication of when activity will resume at the Aquatic Centre.
IT’S HAPPENING Fri. Oct 16 vs Nelson 7 pm Fri. Oct 30 vs Kimberley 7 pm Octoberfest Oct 31 vs Kamloops Wear your Costume Game 2 of Coquihalla Cup
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
The Nicola Valley’s top martial artists competed in Richmond last weekend at the 2026 Korean Consul Cup, bringing home plenty of hardware. The competitive tournament with over 500 competitors saw the 14 participants from Baek’s Taekwondo Academy take home a total of 19 medals. Nikhil Vinoj, Kingston Bolan, Pat O’Toole, Monika
Monika, Colten Forgaard, Queran Harper, Cliffprd Yamelst, Gary Abbott, Joella Mackenzie, Shreeni Thaker, Mya Sheldon, Lenaya Spahan and Sonika Sonika each made their way onto the podium, while in recreational poomsae Harper Anderson scored a 7.27 out of 10, the highest of the Merritt team. A busy month follows for the local academy, with tournaments in both Kelowna and Calgary in November.
Buy your tickets for
Ice Breaker Dinner, Entertainment & Dance Featuring Magician, Silent Auction, DJ & Comedian
November 7, 2026
Tickets available at ticket booth on game nights, Nicola Valley Sports or dan@merrittcentennials.ca Individual $60 or Group of 8 $420 VIP Table $600
BEAT THE LINE UPS, PRE PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS AT SHOWPASS.COM
28 | THURSDAY, Oct. 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY
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 ■
NICOLA VALLEY ANCESTRY, ROOTS RUN DEEP WITH INDIGENOUS FILMMAKER THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU
1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000
TELLING STORIES: continued from page 10
Chenoweth, was born in Merritt and raised in Kamloops, with family ties to Upper Nicola. His yeya Lena was another link to that history, sharing stories about their Nez Perce ancestors and her own upbringing while sometimes staying with the family for months. Today, Chenoweth is learning nsyilxcen and continuing to deepen his connection with Spaxomin. “I strengthen and learn more about my connection to Spaxomin and wider area surrounding for me, but also for her, for my dad, for the family, and for our ancestors,” he said. Those connections are not separate from his filmmaking. “My identity is part of everything in film,” Chenoweth said. “I write for my family, who has survived hell to make sure I am here today.” His mother survived George Gordon residential school. On his father’s side, Chenoweth said his great grandparents protected and hid children from Indian agents around what is now Merritt and Spaxomin. That history gives purpose to what he creates. “I do what I do to inspire my community, and showcase the true power of our creations,” he said. His road into filmmaking started with a childhood love of movies. Star Wars, Brother Bear and The Lord of the Rings were early favourites before zombie movies entered the mix. His cousin Mise’l, a horror fan and Capilano University film alumnus, helped inspire him to pursue filmmaking himself. Chenoweth later studied Indigenous Digital Filmmaking and Motion Picture Arts at Capilano University. He said film school taught him intention,
positionality, photography and literacy, but also something less technical. “The power that comes to make film worthwhile, comes from within,” Chenoweth said. “Being yourself is key.” His films have followed that philosophy. Entre Nous Locataires grew from his family’s experiences with renoviction and displacement in Vancouver. ADANAC grew from the neighbourhood where Chenoweth himself was raised. He said watching businesses, including smoke shops selling drug paraphernalia, operate in an area with a large Indigenous population made him think about addiction, exploitation and the lasting impacts of residential schools. “I see it as a way to profit off native pain, while still being legal,” Chenoweth said. “ADANAC is meant to call that out and also bring a great issue of the country to the forefront.” The title comes from Adanac Street, where he grew up, its name Canada spelled backwards Chenoweth uses that reversal to look critically at the history and systems surrounding the community he knows as home. His next stories are already taking shape. A long-term project explores tribal warfare in the Okanagan through local lore, while other ideas move between history, imagination, horror, action, comedy and drama. For Chenoweth, filmmaking has become a place where those different pieces meet: East Vancouver and Spaxomin, childhood movies and family histories, contemporary struggles and stories reaching back generations. The distance between where he grew up and where his family comes from may be measured in kilometres, but on screen, Chenoweth is bringing those worlds together.
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. St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 604-329-0549 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 Sunday Service Times: 9 am & 10:45 am www.nicolavalleyefc.com Motion Church Merritt Sundays 10 am Coquihalla Middle School (2975 Clapperton Ave) www.wearemotionchurch.ca/merritt
IS YOUR FURNACE READY FOR WINTER Don’t get caught off guard by a broken heater when you need it most. Give your furnace a tune-up before the cold hits.
BE SURE TO KEEP THE FAMILY WARM & SAFE THIS WINTER
250-378-5104
2151 Coutlee Ave., coppervalley@uniserve.com
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, October 15, 2026 | 29
CLASSIFIEDS DEADLINE: MONDAY at noon. for that week’s paper.
For Sale by Owner
OBITUARIES
FOR SALE
Merritt Funeral Chapel
Updated 2-Bedroom Condo 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo. Ground-floor corner unit featuring a covered patio. Call 250-315-2249 for more information. Catch your next job in our employment section.
To advertise in To advertise in Employment Employment call 604-630-3300 Call 250-378-4241
OBITUARIES
OBITUARIES
REGULAR OFFICE HOURS On Call 24 Hours A Day
Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m
www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC
250-378-2141
GIVE LAVISHLY LIVE ABUNDANTLY By Helen Steiner Rice
The more you give, The more you get, The more you laugh, The less you fret, The more you do unselfishly, The more you live abundantly, The more of everything you share, The more you’ll always have to spare, The more you love, The more you’ll find, That life is good, And friends are kind, For only what we give away, Enriches us from day to day.
email: publisher@merrittherald.com ororemail: publisher@merrittherald.com Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5admin@merrittherald.com p.m. Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm OBITUARIES
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Edward Heppner December 24, 1933 ~ October 1, 2026
A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC
Celebrating each life like no other
OBITUARIES
BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED AD – AD ONLINE! IN PRINT PRINTAND AND ONLINE! Call 250-378-4241 Call 250-378-4241
Edward Heppner, 92, departed for Heaven on October 1st, 2026. Ed was born near Debden Saskatchewan and new what it was to work hard from a very young age. As a young man he followed work wherever it would take him. Ed met his wife Irma in Quesnel at his brother Ron’s wedding, where Ed was the best man and Irma was the bridesmaid for Irma’s sister Fern. Ed and Irma were married June of 1957 in Quesnel BC. Hank (Debbie) and Cathy (Allen) were Born in Quesnel before the family moved to Chilliwack. Maurice (Laurie) and Jackie were born in Chilliwack. The last child Anita, (Duane) was born in Hope while the family lived and Ed worked in Boston Bar. Again following work, the family moved to Canford and later to Lower Nicola while Ed worked at Craigmont mines. His last job was for Highways where he finally retired with Emcon Services. The loss of his life partner, Irma in 2020 left a huge hole in his heart. Ed left this earth as a born again Christian and always wished the same for everyone else. In addition to his five children Ed leaves behind numerous grand and great grandchildren and friends. He leaves us with many memories. A memorial service will take place at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Merritt at 1:00 pm, October 19th, 2026
VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT
PRODUCTION WORKERS (FT/PT) • Wages: starting $20 to $28
(depends on experience & attendance)
• Steady day shift work • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train
CERTIFIED MILLWRIGHTS REQUIRED CARPENTERS REQUIRED WITH EXPERIENCE LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS Excellent medical & dental plan
PLEASE SUBMIT RESUME IN PERSON TO
1195 Houston Street, Merritt BC • 250-378-6161
Please recycle this newspaper.
TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS
30 | THURSDAY, October 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
Help Wanted
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SUDOKU
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WE’RE HIRING Boston Bar & Spuzzum Community Engagement Coordinator Cook’s Ferry Community Engagement Coordiantor
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.
Junior nłeʔképmx Coordinator (sqayxʷ) (Interim Coverage) Health, Safety, and Wellness Specialist HR Generalist Youth Programs Coordinator
secure.collage.co/jobs/citxw-nlakapamux-assembly PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE
Cultural Heritage Technician Executive Assistant
www.kentem.ca/jobs
Quality Control Manager Light Duty Mechanic Quality Control Coordinator Surveyor cantexminingservices.ca/jobs Project Coordinator and more!
Legal/Public Notices
Legal/Public Notices
Legal/Public Notices
Legal/Public Notices
Maps are available for review and comment online at: https:// fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects
ACROSS
Ashcroft Indian Band invites the public to review and comment on the proposed information package relating to Forest Operations Map (FOM) ID# 3531. The FOM shows the proposed cutting permit and road permit locations in the McNulty Road area.
1. Small Eurasian deer 4. Province in Northern Ireland 10. A major division of geological time 11. Broadway actor Lane 12. Canadian province (abbr.) 14. Human gene 15. Two 16. A notable one was “blue” 18. Utter repeatedly
22. Ring-shaped 37. Longtime mayor objects of Rio 23. Sullies 39. Hot meal 24. Occurs 40. A type of gin 26. Commercial 41. Atomic #84 27. Near 42. $10 bill 28. Tools you may need 48. About ground 30. A pledge 50. Medicine man 31. They start the 51. Seedless raisin alphabet 52. National capital of 34. Silk garments Albania 36. Soviet Socialist 53. Appendage Republic 54. OJ trial judge
55. European government entity (abbr.) 56. Bike parts 58. Friend to “Barbie” 59. Stretched to see or hear 60. Commercials
DOWN
Ashcroft Indian Band Public Notice
1. Make up for 2. Baltimore ballplayer 3. Wages 4. International organization of countries 5. Engravers of gems 6. Declared as fact 7. One who steals 8. Jewelry 9. Hospital worker
12. Nonsense (slang) 13. Town in Galilee 17. Value 19. Alternative identity 20. Sheep in their second year 21. Town in Surrey, England 25. Appropriate to a time of year 29. Creative work 31. Recesses
45. “Pulp Fiction” actress Thurman 46. Helps people walk 47. Crest of a hill 49. People of southeastern Alaska 56. One’s own device 57. The Mount Rushmore State
Printed maps will also be available to view by appointment at the AIB office located at 414 Cornwall Road, Ashcroft, BC, V0K 1A0. Please contact dwayne.paradis@ttes.ca to arrange a meeting to review the plans. Comments can be submitted online during the 30-day period via the website above, by email or by mail 414 Cornwall Road, Ashcroft, BC, V0K 1A0. Comments received between Oct 12, 2026 and Nov 15, 2026 will be considered in forest development plans. This FOM may be relied upon to apply to a road permit or cutting permit for a 3-year period ending Nov. 15, 2029.
32. Largely forested municipality in Germany 33. Rider of Rohan 35. Ancient symbol co-opted by Nazis 38. Pioneer 41. Scribe 43. Painted a bright color 44. Member of British nobility
ns io t u l o S l l a w y r D y e Nicola Vall
L o c a l BUSINESS DIRECTORY
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, October 15, 2026 | 31
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32 | THURSDAY, October 15, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
THAT MONEY IS STAYING RIGHT HERE IN THE NICOLA VALLEY.
We have decided to donate $500 to our local search and rescue and the remainder will go to our scholarship program for local youth.
We couldn’t have done it without the amazing support of our sponsors and participants.