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RESILIENCY PLAN
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
The City of Merritt is implementing a resiliency plan to prepare for future distaster events.
The annual Orange Shirt Day feature looks at a survivor’s story of the B.C. residential school system.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
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LONG DAYS FOR MERRITT FIRE & RESCUE THIS SUMMER
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JAKE COURTEPATTE
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Merritt Fire and Rescue Department (MFRD) crews spent 36 days deployed on wildfires across B.C. this summer, while continuing to maintain full emergency response coverage in Merritt. According to City of Merritt CAO Rick Green’s monthly report, MFRD deployed Tender 1 through the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) Structure Protection Program, with two firefighters staffing the tender at a time. The BCWS Structure Protection Program brings specialized personnel and equipment from structural fire departments across the province to communities threatened by wildfires. The department’s first deployment was to the Clinton area north of Kamloops to assist with the Big Bar Complex wildfire, before the crew was redeployed to Summerland as the historic Bald PHOTO/JAKE COURTEPATTE
WORK BY LOCAL: continued on page 3
Merritt Centennials captain Kaden Wilkins (right) shake hands with Princeton Posse captain Will Bell before the 2026-27 season opener. STORY on pg. 34
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2 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NEWS
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 3
NICOLA VALLEY WORK BY LOCAL WILDFIRE FIGHTERS BROUGHT IN REVENUE specialized equipment, training and capital purchases. Getting ready for the next one
PHOTO/MERRITT FIRE & RESCUE DEPARTMENT
(Top): MFRD Tender 1 maintaining water bladder/ pump sites at the Bald Ridge Wildfire in Summerland. (Bottom): MFRD Tender 1, second from left, forming part of a Task Force at the Big Bar Complex Fire.
LONG DAYS: continued from page 1 Range wildfire erupted. During the deployments, MFRD firefighters worked alongside crews from other departments, establishing and maintaining sprinkler systems, shuttling water and helping defend homes and critical infrastructure. “Throughout the 36 days of deployment, Merritt Fire Rescue maintained full emergency response capability within the City,” Green wrote. Crews were housed in base camps and generally worked at least 12-hour shifts, with some shifts extending to 18 hours depending on demands. Green noted that the deployments required a significant commitment from MFRD firefighters, many of whom are paid-on-call firefighters who
had to spend extended periods away from their regular jobs and families. “To sustain the deployment, MFRD rotated personnel during the assignment, providing additional firefighters with valuable frontline wildfire and structure protection experience while maintaining the operational readiness of the department at home,” Green wrote. Financial benefits The department’s wildfire work also provided financial benefits to the City. The 36-day deployment generated nearly $180,000 in gross revenue for MFRD. Green said provincial deployment revenue has historically been directed toward MFRD reserves, helping fund
LAWYERS (250) 851-0100 NEW ADDRESS 406 - 121 5TH AVE KAMLOOPS, BC V2C 0M1
The department also used the summer’s wildfires as an opportunity to strengthen preparedness for a potential major interface fire in Merritt. With the Ainslie Creek Wildfire posing a potential threat to the community, MFRD worked closely with BC Wildfire Service and provincial structure protection resources. Structure Protection Specialists assigned to the incident reviewed Merritt’s Wildfire Structure Defence Plan, validating many of its existing strategies while identifying areas for improvement. The review looked at how the plan would function during a large-scale wildfire, including the arrival of provincial resources, structure protection priorities, water supplies, sprinkler operations, apparatus deployment and the use of local knowledge within a broader incident command structure. Green said lessons learned from the Ainslie Creek incident will be incorporated into future updates to the department’s wildfire plan.
GOT NEWS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
MFRD also worked with local industrial and institutional property owners to improve wildfire preparedness. Several properties developed pre-incident plans and invested in wildland sprinkler systems designed to protect buildings and critical infrastructure from ember showers. “These proactive measures improve property resiliency while reducing potential reliance on limited firefighting resources during a significant wildfire event,” Green wrote. The deployments also gave Merritt firefighters additional experience in large-scale wildfire and structure protec-
tion operations. Green said the combination of frontline experience, training and revenue generated through the BCWS program ultimately strengthens MFRD’s ability to respond if a similar emergency occurs in Merritt. He also highlighted the role of firefighters’ families and employers in allowing the department to participate in provincial deployments. “Without the support of their families and regular employers, the MFRD’s deployment would not be possible.”
SNAP ELECTION CALLED B.C. voters are in for a busy October, with Premier David Eby calling an early provincial election just one week after municipal voting day. Voters can cast a ballot at any district electoral office, by mail, during six days of advance voting from Oct. 16-21, or at any voting place on Oct. 24.
The timing creates an unique overlap between local and provincial campaigns, with candidates, voters, and election officials navigating two elections within days of each other. Parties now have a short window to finalize candidates in ridings across B.C., including in Fraser-Nicola, which covers
Merritt and communities across the Nicola Valley and Fraser Canyon. Eligible voters must be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years old and have lived in B.C. for at least six months. The Herald will provide further information on candidates and local voting locations as they become available.
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, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NEW NAME ON BALLOT FOR MERRITT CITY COUNCIL
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
After spending years getting to know Merritt from the outside, one city council candidate says he is ready to help shape the community’s future from the inside. Steve Pimm, who has lived in Merritt for just over a year, said his decision to run for council stems from wanting to make “some real change” in the community. Pimm is the only one of the eight candidates running in this fall’s election with no prior experience: all six current councillors are back on the ballot, as is past-councillor Melvina White. Pimm’s partner is from Merritt, while he is originally from the valley, which he says has given him the opportunity to spend about five years getting to know the community before moving to town. Since moving to Merritt, he has become involved with the Citizens On Patrol Society as well as Nicola Valley Transit Society. “Both societies have amazing people working hard to try and make a difference for our town,” said Pimm. Through those connections, as well as conversations with residents, Pimm said he has heard a range of concerns about Merritt and ideas for how the community could improve. One area he wants to see addressed is Spirit Square, which has been
PHOTO/STEVE PIMM
Steve Pimm has put his name in for Merritt City Council.
an ongoing topic of discussion in Merritt. Pimm questions whether fencing off the area is the best approach to dealing with issues at the downtown spot. “Why fence it up? You keep everybody out, not just the users and homeless, but the tourists and people of our community.” Instead, he proposes allowing a small number of food trucks or vendors to rent space and advertise near Merritt’s new sign. The idea, he said, could bring more tourists into the downtown core, generate revenue for the City, create jobs and make Spirit Square more accessible to residents during the day. Pimm said he also wants to see more affordable community activities for youth and families. One example is movie nights in the park, things like called “cheap, simple events” that could bring people together. He suggested forming a committee of parents to work with Tourism Merritt to organize events aimed at families
and youth. “We desperately do need more for our youth and families in Merritt.” The Baillie House is another area he believes could play a greater role in Merritt’s downtown. Pimm said the historic building could benefit from a “facelift and a new lease on life,” suggesting a tea house as one possible use. He points to other communities that have successfully incorporated cafes and similar businesses into historic buildings. According to Pimm, a business at Baillie House could create jobs, attract tourists to the downtown core and give residents another reason to visit the historic site. “These are just a few items that I believe would greatly help our community growth and morale.” Experience-wise, Pimm brings 24 years of transportation and logistics experience to the campaign, having worked in multiple industries as a driver, manager and owner. He also spent close to 16 years working with Handi-Dart of Greater Vancouver in various capacities, as well as many years as a property investor and is now semi-retired. Pimm believes his experience in transportation, business and community organizations would give him a practical perspective if elected to council. Campaign season has already begun, with advance polls opening Oct. 7 before Election Day on Oct. 17.
Friday September 25th | 3pm - 8pm Saturday September 26th | 10am - 4pm HOME PROJECTS START HERE!
Merritt Civic Centre - 1950 Mamette Ave
Protect Your Home — Simple Tips to Prevent Burglaries • LOCK IT UP – Always lock doors and windows, even when you’re at home. • LIGHT IT UP – Use outdoor motion-sensor lights and indoor timers to give the impression someone is home. • KEEP IT CLEAR – Trim shrubs and trees so there are no hiding spots near doors or windows. • DON’T ADVERTISE AWAY TIME – Avoid posting travel plans on social media until after you return.
• SECURE VALUABLES – Keep jewelry, cash, and electronics out of sight.
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 5
PLAN SET TO BUILD RESILIENCE Adopt a Pet BEFORE DISASTER STRIKES
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
Five years after the 2021 flood forced thousands of Merritt residents from their homes, the City is taking steps to prepare the community for whatever comes next. The City of Merritt is developing a community resilience framework that will bring together local organizations, businesses, service providers and other partners to identify the community’s strengths, gaps and priorities. Funded by the Canadian Red Cross, the initiative is intended to create a shared approach to resilience and help local organizations work together on projects, planning and potential funding opportunities. “The framework will build on Merritt’s experience of the 2021 flood, as well as other historical experiences the community has navigated together,” reads a document provided by the City. “Work is underway to review and coordinate what has already been completed and integrate past research and planning into a resilience framework.” But officials say resilience is about more than responding when disaster strikes.
The plan is set to examine how Merritt can prepare before an event, maintain essential services during a disruption and support recovery afterward. It will also look at ongoing challenges such as housing affordability, access to health care and employment supports that can weaken a community’s ability to withstand future disruptions. The framework will be organized around four interconnected areas: People and Community, Prosperity, Place and Preparedness. Those areas will be used to identify existing strengths and assets, determine gaps and opportunities, establish priorities and help guide future planning and access to funding. The City is facilitating the project, but says the framework is intended to be ‘community-driven’ rather than a City plan. “Community partners, service organizations, local businesses, local government and First Nation Communities all have roles in strengthening community resilience,” reads the document. As part of the process, invited organizations and partners will participate in workshops and interviews throughout September.
The discussions will look at existing initiatives and resources in Merritt, potential gaps, projects that could improve resilience and how different organizations could contribute. Participants will come from a wide range of sectors, including health and mental health, housing and social services, education, emergency management, public safety, infrastructure, utilities, environmental and watershed management, business, agriculture, volunteer organizations and services for seniors and people who may be more vulnerable during disruptions. A separate but complementary First Nations engagement process will also be developed collaboratively with First Nations. The project team will then use the input to create an inventory of Merritt’s existing strengths and initiatives, identify potential projects and contributors, and refine the community resilience framework. The work is expected to be completed by December 2026. The City says the framework is intended to give Merritt a common language for resilience and, ultimately, help the community move from reacting to challenges toward identifying opportunities to become stronger before they happen. “The goal is to build on what Merritt already has, bring people together and identify where we can work collectively to make our community stronger and better prepared for whatever comes next.”
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To make an appointment to meet your new best friend Phone/text: (250) 378-5223 or (250) 574-1316 email: aarsrescue@gmail.com “Breaking the Chain of Abuse” Donations can be to made to The Angel’s Animal Rescue Society by cheque, etransfer or PayPal. We are a Registered Charity - 847488269RR0001.
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6 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
NICOLA VALLEY
VIEWPOINT
DIXON: A GUIDE TO BACKTO-SCHOOL SNACKING BONNIE DIXON Healthy Conversations
ART-TASTIC! This week’s art is by Charlotte Sine. Submit your artwork to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured in print each week!
Back-to-school time is here, and along with new pencils, backpacks, and busy schedules comes the daily question: “What are we going to put in the lunchbox?” Packaged snacks can add up $$ quickly. Making snacks at home is one simple way to save money while also having more control over what goes into them. It doesn’t have to be complicated, fancy, or time-consuming. In fact if your child helps they may like it even more! Start with foods you already have on hand. Fresh fruit, vegetables, whole-grain crackers, oats, yogurt, cheese, eggs, and peanut or other nut or seed butters can become the building blocks for nutritious snacks.
Easy Homemade Energy Bites Try this simple no-bake recipe. Mix one cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter (substitute sunflower or sesame butter if needed), 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries, and two tablespoons sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like. Stir everything together in a bowl. If the mixture seems too sticky, add a little more oats. If it seems too dry, add a spoonful of peanut butter. Chill for about 20 minutes, then roll into small balls. Store them in the refrigerator and grab a couple for a quick snack. For school lunches, check your school’s allergy guidelines before including nuts or nut butters. Popcorn is another
#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
inexpensive favourite. Pop it at home and divide it into small reusable containers or bags. Add some fruit or cheese, and you have a simple snack that provides a little more staying power. Homemade muffins are another great option. Add grated zucchini, mashed banana, applesauce or berries for extra flavour and nutrition. Make a double batch and freeze some for those extra-busy mornings. One of my favourite money-saving habits is “cook once, enjoy several times.” A little planning can make back-to-school eating healthier and kinder to the family budget. Healthy choices don’t have to cost more. Sometimes, they just require a little preparation and a willingness to make it yourself.
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 FESTIVAL OF YOM KIPPUR REVISITED AS ATONEMENT NARAYAN MITRA
You Gotta Have Faith This past weekend saw the observance of the holiest Jewish festival of Yom Kippur, better known as the Day of Atonement. The average Westerner is perhaps more cognizant of Yom Kippur by recalling the Arab-Israeli war fought over 50 years ago in the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan Heights region during the solemn season the Jews. But there is a lot riding in the use of the word “atonement” in Christian dogma. Ascribing it to the sacrifice of Christ, the hymn writer exclaimed: Full atonement! Can it be? Hallelujah, what a Saviour! The death of Christ on the cross opened the way for the believer to have his sins forgiven and be accepted by God as His child. The writer of the New Testament book of Hebrews makes the point that the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross is far superior to any other sacrifice. Not only is Christ a better ‘priest’ who secures and delivers a better covenant (testament), He made a better sacrifice as well. The death of Christ became that great and final sacrifice that accomplished for all of eternity what all other sacrifices down the ages could never ever bring access to God (Heb. 10:1). God created man to walk in
John Isaac
250-378-1996
Johnisaac@telus.net
www.realestatemerritt.com
Ph: 250-378-6181 F: 250-378-6184
www.royallepage.ca/merritt 3499 Voght Street, Merritt, BC
M E R R I T T
fellowship with Him, but man’s sin separated him from that fellowship. The cry of the person who pursues God is that he would be in His presence, but all the animal sacrifices in the world can never bring God and man together. Even the priests, on the special Day of Atonement, could not bring the people inside the veil of the temple that separated commoners from His symbolic presence. Keeping the Law accomplished no access. It was only an introduction to a better hope. The Law, regulating sacrifices, was merely a ‘shadow’ of better things to come, and could not bring perfection (Colossians 2:17). Perfection here simply means access to God. The complete end, then, of any pattern God would send would be that man would come in full relationship with Him. More than anything else, this is what God-fearing people want and need. It is sin and guilt that eats away at them as they seek deliverance from it. Usually when a person reaches the point of total sensitivity to sin and learns the facts of the gospel that he gives his life to God. Had the sacrifices done their job in removing sin, one didn’t have to sacrifice again and again. Guilt, as a warning system, lets
us know that we have injured the soul by disobeying God. It is interesting to read of people in the Old Testament were never fully relieved from the tension of their guilt. He who is obliged to take medicines to stay alive cannot be said to be cured. The New Testament’s message of “no condemnation” (Romans 8:1) is, therefore, very liberating. There’s a difference between being conscious of sin and being guilt-ridden by it. And no one is more painfully aware of sin than a regenerate soul (Prov. 28:13; 1 John 1:8,10). The animal sacrifices were ineffective because they never got to the heart of the issue. In other words, they were externals only (Hebrews 10:4). Internal sins can never be cured by external acts. That is why it is so tragic to see people trying to work their way to heaven, only to discover they were going down the wrong trail. At Yom Kippur or otherwise, it was impossible for any animal to satisfy the demands of a holy God. Only Jesus Christ, the perfect union of humanity and deity, could be the ultimate sacrifice (Romans 8:3-4) and bring us in relationship with God. (Narayan Mitra is the Pastor of Merritt Baptist Church).
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 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 Do you plan on voting in the upcoming municipal election? Have your say at merrittherald.com
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION Should some local school limit speed zones be year-round? YES NO
57% 43%
27 20
AFromLOOK BACK the Herald archives SEPTEMBER 24, 1997
NEW OVERWAITEA STORE OPENING ATTRACTS CROWD Merritt churches might have been a little empty Sunday morning. Hundreds rose early that day to attend the long-awaited grand opening of the new Overwaitea store located in the Railyard Mall. Families were standing alongside Overwaitea/Save-On Foods dignitaries who gave speeches about how the store is a welcome addition to the community. After explaining why there was a hold-up to the start of the day ’s events, Merritt Mayor Clara Norgaard welcomed the new and the old Overwaitea staff before cutting the ceremonial ribbon. The approximately 28,000 square foot grocery store has been updated to include a bakery, delicatessen, and established floral department.
RENTALS 1 BEDROOM | 2 BEDROOM | 3 BEDROOM 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT – Coin- garage. Great location and nicely 3 BEDROOM ½ DUPLEX – New 2 BEDROOM LOWER – Freshly operated laundry on site. $1,175/ finished. Heat and hydro included. kitchen appliances, new flooring renovated with shared laundry. month + hydro. $2,500/month. in bedrooms, fenced yard and $1,400/month. laundry included. $2,500/month. 2 BEDROOM – SANDPIPER – In- 2 BEDROOM FURNISHED LOWEr 38’ X 38’ SHOP – 14’ x 14’ doors suite laundry. Available October 1. – Fridge, stove, washer/dryer, 3 BEDROOM UPPER – Shared with approximately 500 sq. ft. of $1,500/month. dishwasher, air conditioning and laundry and garage. Plus portion office space. storage. Great location and nicely of utilities. $1,600/month. 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATh Upper 1,500 SQ. FT. OFFICE/STORAGE finished. Heat and hydro included. 3 BEDROOM HOUSE – Fridge, – Fridge, stove, washer/dryer, SPACE – Light industrial space dishwasher, air conditioning and $2,200/month. stove, washer/dryer. $2,400/month. with ample parking.
8 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
CITY NEWS
CITY OF MERRITT
Annual Tax Sale MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 | 10:00AM COUNCIL CHAMBERS
|
CITY HALL
|
2185 VOGHT ST
As per the Local Government Act (RSBC 2015) Part 16, Division 7, the following parcels of property shall be offered for sale by public auction unless the delinquent taxes with interest are paid by Monday, September 28, 2026. 1202 HOUSTON ST
LOT: 10 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP25066 | DISTRICT LOT: 122
2240 GRANITE AVE
LOT: 5 | BLOCK: 13 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP626 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2252 GRANITE AVE
LOT: 5 | BLOCK: 13 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP626 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
1776 ORME ST
LOT: 1 | BLOCK: 32 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP717 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2552 LAUDER AVE
LOT: 12 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP565 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2544 LAUDER AVE
LOT: 13 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP565 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2135 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 1 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2137 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 2 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2139 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 3 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
$8,702.27 $5,687.37 $12,291.06 $16,956.38 $4,625.13 $8,423.45 $3,140.78 $2,509.85 $2,509.85
If the amount of delinquent taxes, taxes in arrear and interest to the first day of the tax sale for which the parcel of land and the improvements are liable for sale are not paid before the annual tax sale, the City of Merritt will offer the property for sale by public auction at the time and place stated in this notice. If the property is sold at the annual tax sale, a right of redemption will remain in the owner or holder of the charge until the end of the redemption period.
2141 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 4 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2143 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 5 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2145 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 6 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2147 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 7 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2149 DOUGLAS ST
LOT: 8 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP531 | DISTRICT LOT: 123
2070 QUILCHENA AVE
LOT: 7 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP1 | DISTRICT LOT: 125
3551 VOGHT ST
LOT: A | PLAN NUMBER: KAP49313
2761 PEREGRINE WAY
LOT: 28 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP86634 | DISTRICT LOT: 4691
2709 GRANDVIEW HTS
LOT: 12 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP60575
$2,509.85 $2,509.85 $2,489.07 $2,530.64
LOT: 1 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP561 | DISTRICT LOT: 126
1606 PINE ST
$222,009.00
LOT: 3 | BLOCK: 2 | PLAN NUMBER: KAP561 | DISTRICT LOT: 126
$11,310.78
PAYMENTS DUE SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 Payment of delinquent taxes must be received in the City’s bank account before the tax sale starts on Monday, September 28, 2026 at 10:00 am.
$2,509.85 $8,416.00 $56,862.75 $7,467.43 $17,116.49
The City of Merritt makes no representation expressed or implied as to the condition or quality of the properties being offered for sale. Prospective purchasers are urged to make all necessary inquiries to municipal and other government departments, and in the case of strata lots to the strata corporation, to determine the existence of any bylaws, restriction, charges, or other conditions which may affect the value or sustainability of the property. Due diligence does not include
trespassing on properties that may be available at the auction. Any person upon being declared the successful bidder must provide photo ID and immediately pay by cash or certified cheque a minimum of not less than the upset price. Failure to pay this amount will result in the property being offered for sale again. Purchase of a Tax Sale Property is subject to tax under the Property Tax Transfer Act on the fair market value of the property.
SEPTEMBER 30 NATIONAL DAY FOR
Truth + Reconciliation
CIVIC FACILITIES CLOSED
NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 | CITY HALL | 6:00PM | PUBLIC WELCOME!
4MERRITT.CA
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 9
NICOLA CANFORD HIGHEST RANKED SCHOOL IN THE VALLEY
PHOTO/HERALD FILES
Nicola Canford was the highest ranked local elementary school in the Fraser Institute’s annual rankings of B.C. schools.
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
Elementary schools around the Nicola Valley have received a wide range of results in the Fraser Institute’s latest ranking of B.C. schools, with one local school landing in the top 120 while several others placed much further down the list. The Fraser Institute’s Report Card on British Columbia’s Elementary Schools 2026 ranks 1,032 elementary schools across the province, based largely on students’ results on the province’s Foundation Skills Assessments (FSAs). Nicola Canford Elementary in Lower Nicola was the highestranked local school, coming in at 119th with an overall rating of 8.0 out of 10. The school’s five-year rating was 5.7, while its previous ranking was listed as 447th. The results were more mixed among Merritt’s other schools. Merritt Bench ranked 697th, with a rating of 5.2
out of 10. Its previous ranking was 453rd, while its five-year rating was 5.7. Diamond Vale came in at 955th, with a rating of 3.5. Its previous ranking was 750th, and its five-year rating was 3.2. Merritt Central ranked 974th, receiving a rating of 3.3. Its previous ranking was 744th, with a five-year rating of 3.5. Lower Nicola Band School was the lowest ranked in the area at 1,003rd, with a rating of 2.6. The report did not list a previous ranking or five-year rating for the school. Collettville Elementary also appears in this year’s report, despite its permanent closure in June. It’s ranking of 302nd with a rating of 6.8. would have given it the highest mark of all School District 58 schools. Literacy and numeracy the determining factors The Fraser Institute’s rankings are based on eight indicators drawn from Grade 4 and Grade 7 FSA results.
Those include students’ average literacy and numeracy scores in Grades 4 and 7, as well as the differences between boys’ and girls’ Grade 7 literacy and numeracy scores. The report also considers the percentage of tests that were at the lowest achievement level, known as “emerging,” as well as the percentage of tests that were not written or did not provide a meaningful response. The Fraser Institute standardizes those different measures and combines them into an overall score, which is then converted into a rating out of 10. That rating is what determines a school’s position in the provincial ranking. While the rankings provide a way to compare schools using a common set of academic measures, they do not capture every aspect of a school. The Fraser Institute itself notes that the rankings should not be the only measure used when assessing a school. Other factors, including school activities and other aspects of the educational experience, are not included in the ranking. For the Nicola Valley, the latest rankings therefore offer a snapshot of how local students performed on the particular measures used by the Fraser Institute, rather than a complete picture of each school or the education students receive. The full report can be found at www.compareschoolrankings.org.
10 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
HISTORIC BROOKMERE SCHOOLHOUSE COULD HIT OPEN MARKET MORGAN HAMPTON Contributed
The community of Brookmere held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sept. 20, 2026 and a hot topic on the agenda was the potential acquisition of the historic Schoolhouse property. The Brookmere Schoolhouse, which is where the AGM is held each year, alongside Christmas parties, community information sessions, flea markets, and all nature of community events, has been a fixture of the community since its construction in 1955. It has been in use as the community centre since 1975. In 2025, School District 58 NicolaSimilkameen (SD58) announced that they intended to dispose of the Schoolhouse, the property on which it sits, and another small parcel of land that was originally the location of the teacherage, although that house was moved to another lot and turned into a private residence after the closure of the school, leaving a vacant lot. The Brookmere Property Owners Association requested that the community of Brookmere be given the first option to acquire the property, ideally by donation or potentially by purchase. The citizens of Brookmere had first begun to consider officially acquiring the property several decades beforehand, namely through a handful of residents who had lived in the community through its earliest years, when both the Kettle Valley Railway and the school were still in active use. However, due to the Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) SD58 was unable to consider the sale of the property to either Brookmere or the TNRD, as DRIPA requires that the property first be offered to all local First Nations. In the Nicola Valley this meant that five Indigenous Bands, Lower Nicola, Upper Nicola, Shackan, Nooaitch, and Coldwater were all given first right of refusal on both the Schoolhouse and the teacherage property. As there was no timeline for a decision from any of these First Nations, the community waited until all had declined the offer. At the 2025 Brookmere AGM held last September, a motion to request that the TNRD look into taking the necessary steps to acquire the Schoolhouse for
Brookmere should it become available was passed unanimously, with then TNRD Director for Area ‘N’, Herb Graham, taking the lead on presenting a case to the TNRD Board and directing the administration to follow up as necessary. As part of performing due diligence the TNRD sent building inspectors to the Schoolhouse on July 29, 2026 to investigate the condition of the building and what updates or repairs may be necessary. On Aug. 19, 2026, the TNRD Board sent a letter to SD58 “requesting that it postpone the sale of the Brookmere Schoolhouse property until Jan. 31, 2027 to allow TNRD staff time to complete public consultation and a detailed evaluation of the potential acquisition.” On Sept. 16, the SD58 Board rejected the TNRD’s request and directed the Secretary Treasurer to “go ahead and list the property with a realtor.” Mark Friesen, Secretary Treasure for SD58, said, “The conversations with TNRD started in April 2026. We are now in September. That is five months. From our understanding, the TNRD have not started their explorations for the potential purchase of the Brookmere School House property yet. The property has been offered to the TNRD as part of our policy. The property will go to the open market and the TNRD are still able to complete their process and decide if the purchase is in the best interest of their voters” However, outgoing Director Graham disagreed that the TNRD had not begun to undertake the necessary steps for acquisition, noting the building inspections and ongoing public consultation. “I’m very disappointed in how the SD has handled this,” said Graham. “Here is a community that relies on this old Schoolhouse that they’ve used for 50 years, and they had the TNRD on board to help purchase and renovate it and the SD dropped the ball on it and now they’re making the TNRD compete with the public for something the community should have. Shame on the SD Board of Directors, they should be walking around ashamed of themselves for allowing this to happen. I’ve been working with Brookmere for all the time BUILDING’S FUTURE: continued on page 12
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BUILDING’S FUTURE UNCERTAIN FREE COUNSELLING AVAILABLE FOR VICTIMS OF 2021 MERRITT FLOOD EXTENDED HISTORIC: continued from page 10
I’ve been with the TNRD. That’s 20 years, and they’ve used it for 50 years so we’ve got a lot of time spent on attempting to give the community a meeting place, a decent one, and shame on the School Board for not allowing us the time to get our ducks in a row.” News of the SD decision came to Brookmere on the day of their AGM, leaving the President and Directors uncertain about the future. Their investments into the building and grounds so far, through maintenance, upkeep, and repairs, reach into the
thousands of dollars and untold hours of community labour. “We are shocked and disappointed that the School Board declined the TNRD’s request for a time extension that would allow them to take all the necessary steps on this project,” said BPOA President Leesa Kuit. “The Schoolhouse has been an important part of Brookmere for more than 50 years.” As of yet, SD58 has not indicated a price or listing date with a real estate agent and Brookmere, alongside the TNRD, continues to explore their options.
ANNUAL SALMON FESTIVAL HOSTED IN SHULUS
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
While it is approaching five years since the devastating flood that forced the evacuation of the entire City of Merritt, the rebuilding effort continues and the effects still linger for many of its residents. Canadian Mental Health Association Kamloops is looking to help, offering Merrittarea residents free counselling support through the Merritt Resiliency Project, a Canadian Red Crossfunded initiative created in response to the lasting impacts of the 2021 floods in Merritt and the surrounding region. “The 2021 floods affected people in
different ways, and emotional impacts can continue long after the immediate emergency has passed,” said Brett Mineer with CMHA Kamloops. “Counselling may help with anxiety or depression, stress related to displacement, recovery or rebuilding, relationship or family difficulties, or ongoing emotional impacts connected to the floods.” Extended until Nov.30 from its initial expiry date of Sept. 30, counselling sessions are available at no cost through the program, which is funded through Red Cross, who has been financially aiding those affected since Nov. 2021 through its Canadian Red Cross 2021 Flood Relief Fund. Flood victims can
review the counsellors listed at kamloops. cmha.bc.ca/merritt and choose a counsellor who may be a good fit for your needs, contacting the counsellor directly using the information provided to arrange an initial conversation. The counsellor will provide a no-obligation initial consultation to help determine whether the service is right for you, and if you choose to proceed, will be provided free of charge. All counselling is confidential, and available via secure video, telephone, and in-person options. Learn more by emailing merrittrecovery@cmhakamloops. ca, visiting kamloops. cmha.bc.ca/merritt or calling 250-374-0440.
RCMP SEEKING MORE INFORMATION ON LOWER NICOLA FIRE JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
PHOTO/BOB KRONBAUER
Lower Nicola Indian Band hosted the second annual Hé SqyéytnFestival at Shulus Arbour last weekend, celebrating salmon and other traditional Nlaka’pamux foods with food trucks, arts and crafts, info booths and cultural demonstrations.
Merritt police are asking for the public’s help in determining the details of a suspicious structure fire in Lower Nicola. RCMP responded to a structure fire in the 400 block of Morgan Avenue on July 5, 2026, where they received information that caused police to believe that suspicious activity may have contributed to the fire and resulting property
damage. Police have since conducted a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the fire, and are reaching out to the public in case there are any last pieces of information that an individual or neighbouring property owner might have. “Obviously, we recognize that a substantial length of time has passed since the beginning of July,” said Cst. Blake Chursinoff of the Merritt RCMP. “However, the police
have a responsibility to conduct as thorough of an investigation as possible.” Chursinoff added that police are also releasing this information in hopes to obtain any video footage from the surrounding area at the time. Anyone with information or video that may assist in the investigation is asked to contact Merritt RCMP at 250-378-4262, referencing file 2026-3768, or call Crimestoppers.
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 13
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14 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
CITY NEWS
2026 GENERAL ELECTION Saturday, October 17, 2026
NOTICE OF ELECTION BY VOTING Public Notice is hereby given to the electors of the City of Merritt that an election by voting is necessary to elect 1 Mayor, 6 Councillors and 3 school trustees for a 4 year term commencing November 2026 and ending November 2030, and that the persons nominated as candidates and for whom votes will be received are:
•
18 years of age or older on general voting day; and,
•
A Canadian citizen; and,
•
Resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately preceding voting day; and, or Registered owner of real property in the City of Merritt for at least 30 days immediately preceding voting day; and,
MAYOR – One (1) to be elected
•
Not otherwise disqualified by law from voting.
GOETZ, Michael ............... City of Merritt KEYSER, Gordon............... City of Merritt COUNCILLOR – Six (6) to be elected ETCHART, Adam............... City of Merritt OLGUIN, Manuel .............. City of Merritt EGAN, Dana........................ City of Merritt WHITE, Melvina................ City of Merritt BAXTER, Yvette ................ City of Merritt PETROCZI, Paul................ City of Merritt PIMM, Steve ....................... City of Merritt CHARNEY, Wendy........... City of Merritt School Trustee – Three (3) to be elected SWAN, Gordon Bruce..... City of Merritt JEPSEN, Justin................... City of Merritt SLANZI, Leroy.................... City of Merritt MANUEL, Tim.................... City of Merritt JACKSON, Stu ................... City of Merritt VOTING DATES AND LOCATION General voting will be open to qualified electors from the City of Merritt on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at the Merritt Civic Centre, 1950 Mamette Ave, Merritt, BC.
Resident electors will also be required to produce two pieces of identification (at least one of which with a signature). Picture identification is not necessary. The identification must prove both residency and identity. Non-resident property electors must produce: • Two pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity; • Proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property; and, • If there is more than one owner of the property, written consent from the majority of the property owners. The registered owner of real property means, whichever of the following is applicable: a. the owner of a registered estate in fee simple of the property, unless another person holds an interest in the property referred to in paragraph (b), (c) or (d); b. the holder of the last registered agreement for sale, unless another person holds an interest in the property referred to in paragraph (c) or (d); c. the tenant for life under a registered life interest in the property, unless another person holds an interest in the property referred to in paragraph (d); d. the holder of a registered lease of the property for a term of at least 99 years. INFORMATION AND CONTACTS Linda Brick, Chief Election Officer Phone: 250-378-8634 Email: corporate@merritt.ca
VOTING BY MAIL BALLOT is available for qualified electors of the City of Merritt. If you wish to vote by mail, please visit merritt.ca/elections or Merritt City Hall to obtain an application to receive a mail ballot package. It is your responsibility to ensure that your completed ballot is delivered to the Chief Election Officer no later than 8:00 pm on General Voting Day, Saturday, October 17, 2026, to be counted.
Holly Ferris, Deputy Chief Election Officer Phone: 250-378-4224 Email: corporate@merritt.ca
REGISTRATION AT TIME OF VOTING If you are not on the list of electors, you may register at the time of voting by completing the required application form available at the voting place. To register you must meet the following criteria:
Toll free: 1-800-661-8683
FOR MORE INFORMATION VIST: WWW.MERRITT.CA/ELECTION
For more information on campaign financing and advertising rules in local elections contact Elections BC: Email: electionsbc@elections.bc.ca Website: elections.bc.ca/local-elections/2026-general-local-elections/
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SHOWING YOUR SUPPORT FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
On Sept. 30, communities across Canada will mark the 16th annual Orange Shirt Day, known since 2021 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. A day of remembrance, reflection, and observance of those in our country that endured the residential school system as well as their families, the day has been recognized as a statutory holiday in British Columbia since 2023. In the Nicola Valley, all City of Merritt facilities will be closed for
observance except for the Merritt Civic Centre and Nicola Valley Memorial Arena for scheduled events. City administrative offices will also be closed, and Cityoperated services will be put on hold. School District 58 schools will also be shut in commemoration of the day, while local organizations like Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) and Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society will also have their offices closed for the day. While residents are encouraged to observe and reflect in their own ways, the wearing of an
orange shirt is always a good way to show one’s support, which has become the national symbolic colour of the day and the message of healing that it reflects on. Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society will be handing out free orange shirts from their location at 2475 Merritt Avenue on Sept. 25 fro 1-3p.m. Lower Nicola Indian Band will be hosting its own Orange Shirt Walk a few days early on Sept. 28, leaving Johnny’s on the Rez at 10:30a.m. Any questions about the walk can be directed to Carole Basil at 250-315-9158.
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SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 MARKS TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION THROUGH YEAR-ROUND LEARNING
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
For School District 58 Nicola-Similkameen, Truth and Reconciliation extends beyond Orange Shirt Day with the district incorporating Indigenous learning, culture and teachings into schools throughout the year.
Each year on Sept. 30, students and staff mark Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by wearing orange to honour residential school survivors, their families and communities, while remembering the children who never returned home. The day also provides an opportunity for students and staff to learn, listen and reflect on the message
that Every Child Matters. However, District Assistant Superintendent Misty Sheldon says reconciliation is an ongoing process supported through relationships with local First Nations, Métis organizations, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, families and community partners. Among the year-round initiatives and learning opportunities in SD58 are Nlaka’pamux and Syilx language classes, age-appropriate education about residential schools and their ongoing impacts, and local First Nations culture camps, student language camps and land-based learning. Students also have opportunities to learn from Elders, Knowledge Keepers and community resource people, as well as learn about local stories, histories, traditions and cultural protocols. The district also holds National Day for Truth and Reconciliation activities, along with the District Powwow, hand-drum celebrations and National Indigenous Peoples Day activities. Indigenous arts and cultural learning are also part of the district’s efforts, including beading, weaving, MORE THAN: continued on page 18
INFRACON AND LNSS HONOUR
ORANGE SHIRT DAY
and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation On September 30, we honour the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. Orange Shirt Day grew from the experience of Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her when she entered residential school as a child. Her story has become a powerful reminder of the harm caused by Canada’s residential school system and its continuing intergenerational impacts. Through our work with Lower Nicola Site Services and the Lower Nicola Indian Band, we recognize that reconciliation must be reflected in how we listen, learn, build relationships and conduct our work throughout the year. We encourage our employees, partners and neighbours to take time to learn from Indigenous voices, reflect on the history and ongoing legacy of residential schools, and consider the role each of us can play in advancing reconciliation. Today and every day, we honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and reaffirm that Every Child Matters.
MORE THAN JUST IN-CLASSROOM LEARNING SD58 MARKS: continued from page 18
basket making, sewing and rattle making. SD58 also offers an Indigenous graduation ceremony and learning and awareness activities connected to Red Dress Day and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people. Indigenous content and the First Peoples Principles of Learning are incorporated across classroom subjects, while students learn through resources such as English First Peoples and BC First Peoples. The district also provides professional learning for staff focused on reconciliation, cultural safety, antiracism and the respectful use of
Indigenous knowledge. Other initiatives include implementing Local Education Agreements, providing Indigenous Student Advocate support and creating culturally welcoming spaces in schools. Through these efforts, SD58 says it aims to support truth-telling, respectful relationships and meaningful action, while recognizing the role of local Nations, in guiding reconciliation. “For SD58, reconciliation is not limited to one day,” said Sheldon. “It is ongoing work supported through relationships with local First Nations, Metis organizations, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, families and community partners.”
NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
September 30 A message from the Nicola Valley Teachers’ Union
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 19
Honouring the Truth of Our Past to Build a More Just and Reconciled Future.
Futures
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PETITION TO PROTECT FUNDING FOR RESIDENTIAL SURVIVOR SUPPORT JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
A B.C. organization that has provided support to residential school survivors and Indigenous communities for more than 30 years is asking Canadians to sign a petition calling on the federal government to protect funding for its healing and crisis-support programs. The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) has launched a federal action petition warning that core funding for some of its Indigenous-led programs is at risk of sunsetting. The organization provides culturally
grounded wellness, emotional and crisis support to residential school survivors, intergenerational survivors, families and communities throughout B.C. Its services include counselling, cultural support, crisis response and assistance for families affected by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people crisis. The issue has a connection to Merritt and the Nicola Valley, where IRSSS has previously provided education and outreach. In the past, IRSSS has delivered a series of workshops to students at Merritt Secondary School and throughout School District 58, teaching
students about the history of residential schools and their ongoing impacts. The sessions included students from Merritt and Princeton and were led in part by then-IRSSS executive director Cindy Tom-Lindley, a residential school survivor. IRSSS also has a regional presence in the Interior with its Kamloops office opening in May 2026. Its services are available across B.C., including through its 24-hour Crisis Line. According to IRSSS, the programs now facing funding uncertainty were originally funded directly HEALING SERVICES: continued on page 21
National Truth and Reconciliation 2026
181 Nawishaskin Lane Merritt, B.C. V1K 0A7 (250) 378-5157
Every Child Matt ers
If you are a survivor of a residential school, your existence is significant. If you have a family member who attended a residential school, you are important. For the children who never returned home, your voice matters.
We are still here
HEALING SERVICES MUST BE SUSTAINED LONG-TERM, SAYS SURVIVORS SOCIETY PETITION: continued from page 20 through Indigenous Services Canada before funding was transitioned to provincial-level distribution. The organization says it was assured essential programs would not be allowed to sunset, but is now warning that uncertainty over funding could disrupt long-standing services. “The Truth and Reconciliation Commission made it clear that healing is central to reconciliation and must be sustained over the long term,” said Angela White, IRSSS executive director. “Survivors and families continue to live with the impacts of residential schools, and the need for culturally safe, Indigenous-led healing and crisis response has not diminished.” The petition calls on the Government of Canada to provide stable, continued federal funding for survivor-centred healing and crisis-support services and to honour commitments made through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
IRSSS says its services can be particularly important during mental-health and emotional crises, community emergencies and environmental disasters. IRSSS’s website currently reports more than 3,600 calls answered through its crisis line and more than 80,000 client interactions through its Resolution Health Support program in its latest impact statistics. The petition is being promoted as a way for survivors, Indigenous communities and allies to call for continuity of the services. Once a federal petition is authorized by a Member of Parliament and presented in the House of Commons, the government is required to provide a formal response. For people in the Nicola Valley who may be seeking support, IRSSS says its services are available in person, by phone and online. More information is available at www. irsss.com, while the Kamloops office can be reached at 604-985-4464.
WE HONOUR OUR ANCESTORS
by practicing our cultural, traditional and spiritual teachings.
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 21
Read for Reconciliation Find a great book to honour Orange Shirt Day
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22 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
LOGAN LAKE TO OBSERVE ONE DAY EARLY
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald. com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The District of Logan Lake will hold a community event later this month in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. The gathering is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 29 from noon to 2 p.m., with further event details still to come. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed across Canada each year on Sept. 30, alongside Orange Shirt Day, to honour residential school Survivors, their families and
communities and remember the children who never returned home. Orange Shirt Day grew from the experience of residential school Survivor Phyllis Webstad. At six years old, Webstad arrived at St. Joseph Mission Residential School near Williams Lake wearing a new orange shirt bought by her grandmother. The shirt was taken from her after she arrived at the school. “My story started with one orange shirt, but it became something so much bigger than I ever imagined,” Webstad has said. She has also described the lasting effect of that experience.
“The color orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter,” Webstad said. Her story became the foundation for Orange Shirt Day and the message Every Child Matters, with the orange shirt becoming a symbol of the loss of culture, identity and belonging experienced by Indigenous children within the residential school system. The first Orange Shirt Day was held in Williams Lake in 2013. Eight years later, the federal government established Sept. 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation following a recommendation from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The commission’s Call to Action 80 called for a national statutory holiday to honour Survivors, their families and communities while ensuring the history and legacy of residential schools remains part of public remembrance. In material promoting truth and reconciliation, the District of Logan Lake has described reconciliation as “a journey in which we all have a part to play.” The District has encouraged residents to listen, learn and take part in reconciliation through reflection, education and community involvement. The Logan Lake event will be held one day ahead of the national observance.
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www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 23
‘THIS REALLY HAPPENED TO ME’ - A RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL SURVIVOR SHARES HER STORY Nancy Michel (Pennier) was only six years old when she was taken into the B.C. Residential School system. ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald.com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Nancy Michel (Pennier) was placed in the back of a pickup truck and taken to the Kamloops Indian Residential School. She was six years old when she arrived. She would spend the next 13 years within the residential school system, years that would separate her from her brother even while he lived in the same building, take away much of the language she once spoke easily and teach her to feel shame for the culture she had known before she ever walked through its doors. Of all the pieces of that childhood, some have faded. Others remain so PHOTO/ ARCHIVES DESCHÂTELETS-NDC, RICHELIEU
A LOST: continued on page 24
The Kamloops Indian Residential School, circa, 1930.
As a North American energy company, Enbridge believes that our business can play a critical role in advancing reconciliation, and that means acknowledging the truth and learning from the past. As we learn more, we strive to create a path that we can walk, together, towards reconciliation. On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage all to take time to listen and learn about the history and culture of Indigenous peoples.
What can you do?
Wear your orange shirt on September 30
Learn more by finding new Indigenous social media content creators or podcasts
Support Indigenous artists; listen to Indigenous musicians
Participate in local cultural events in your community
Discuss with your family what truth and reconciliation means and identify ways to take action
24 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
A LOST CHILDHOOD WITH SIBLINGS
In honour of
DEDE HURD Dede designed this shirt in recognition of Orange Shirt Day.
Nicola Valley & District Metis Society
Jour de shmeezh oraanzh – Kaakiyow taanfaan aen portaan As a forgotten people we honour every child, we pray each child is found and returned to their families. 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
THIS REALLY: continued from page 23 clear that Nancy can still picture them. One of those is her grandmother. Back home in Quilchena, the woman who had raised Nancy, her brother and one of her sisters stood outside with a cane in her hand, trying to stop the
children from being taken from her. Nancy can still see her there. “She was not happy when we left,” Nancy said. “I still have visions of her, you know, outside with her cane to stop them from taking us.” A LANGUAGE: continued on page 25
A LANGUAGE SHE WAS TOLD TO FORGET
A LOST: continued from page 24
Her grandmother could not change what was happening. “It wasn’t her choice that we left.” That image has stayed with Nancy while other pieces of those years have become harder to reach. Some memories remain sharp. Some return unexpectedly in dreams. Others surfaced only when someone who shared her childhood said, “Remember when?” and opened a part of the past Nancy had almost forgotten. “I try to remember a lot of things, and sometimes I think I’ve blocked it out,” she said. Each Sept. 30, Orange Shirt Day is observed alongside the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour residential school Survivors, their families and communities, and remember the children who never returned home. But for Nancy, residential school is not a history that begins and ends with a day of remembrance. It is the grandmother she can still picture standing outside with her cane. It is a brother who was close enough to glimpse across a room, but whom she was barely allowed to know.It is a language she arrived speaking and struggled to hold onto. It is a childhood that, all these years later, still returns in pieces. “You know what we went through was, it’s not just a story,” Nancy said. “This is not just something you read in the history books. This really happened, and this really happened to me.” When Nancy first arrived at residential school, English was not the language that came naturally to her. She knew her own language well. Her older cousins were already at the school, familiar faces in a place that was anything but familiar. Nancy would speak to them in the language she knew from home. It did not take long for them to warn her. “My older cousins that were there, they soon told me that we were not allowed to talk in our language because we would be punished,” Nancy said. The children learned to watch.
When they gathered together and staff began moving toward them, they understood why. “Whenever they’d see us congregating, they knew that’s what we were doing. We were speaking our language.” A group of children speaking to one another could quickly become children scattering away from one another. “We’d see them coming,” Nancy said. Their language was not the only connection the school broke apart. Nancy’s brother was there too. For years, brother and sister lived beneath the same roof, yet much of their childhood happened separately. At mealtimes, the boys and girls were divided. A wall separated their sides of the dining area. Nancy knew her brother was somewhere beyond it. “We weren’t even allowed to look over at them,” she said. Church was much the same. Every now and then she could catch sight of him. “I’d get to see them, but just kind of look over very quickly at them.” Then she had to look away. Playtime had a boys’ side and a girls’ side too. “Everything was just separate all the time, and I never really got to see my brother, although I knew he was there.” They were close enough to know the other was nearby, but not close enough to grow up together. The years eventually ended. The distance did not. “That was a real issue for us when we got older,” Nancy said. “We really didn’t know one another because although we were at the same place, we didn’t get to mingle.” From Grade 1 through Grade 7, Nancy was educated in classrooms inside the residential school. One year stands out for a different reason. There were about 50 students in her Grade 7 class. Nancy remembers a teacher with a strong English accent that many of the children could barely understand. “He just didn’t have control over us,”
LEARNING HOW: continued on page 26
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“Every child matters. Every story matters. Every step toward healing matters.” This Orange Shirt Day, we honour the children who never came home, remember the survivors, and recognize the strength of families and communities continuing the journey toward healing and reconciliation.
NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY JUSTICE SERVICES SOCIETY 1999 GARCIA STREET, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 TEL: 250-378-5010 • www.nvcjss.com
EVERY CHILD MATTERS! “Success for all learners today & tomorrow”
www.sd58.bc.ca
26 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
LEARNING HOW TO LIVE WITHOUT FREEDOM A LANGUAGE: continued from page 25
she said. A lot of them failed. Nancy was one of them. So she did Grade 7 again. Years later, she can look back at that failure with some uncertainty. Perhaps, she says, repeating the year helped in a way she could not have seen at the time. “Maybe that was a good thing. I don’t know.” When she reached Grade 8, the classroom changed. Nancy began attending St. Ann’s Academy in Kamloops. She did well there and formed friendships with several girls who stayed together through the rest of high school. But each day, when classes were over, Nancy was still returning to residential school. Christmas brought her home. Sometimes Easter did too. There were holidays away. Then she went back. By the time she finally left the system, she was 19 years old. Thirteen years had passed since the little girl from Quilchena first arrived. The language she had brought with her had not survived those years untouched. “You just don’t speak it anymore,” Nancy said. First there had been punishment for speaking it. Then years without using it. Over time, something that had once come naturally became harder to reach. The same years changed the way Nancy saw her own culture. There is another image she remembers. She was walking down the street when she saw her grandmother. The same grandmother who had raised her. The same woman who had once stood outside with her cane trying to stop the children from being taken away. Nancy remembers feeling ashamed of her. Not because of anything her grandmother had done. Because Nancy had been taught to feel that way.
“You were taught to be ashamed of, you know, the culture, the language, all that,” she said. She had entered residential school knowing where she came from. Inside, she was repeatedly given a different message about those things. Nancy remembers being told Indigenous ways were not good for them. She remembers the word “savage.” At the same time, another faith and another way of life filled nearly every day. “We went to church every single day,” she said. Sunday meant church twice, including benediction in the afternoon. There were early mornings, church, chores and school. And there was dance. Nancy joined a dance troupe when she was around 10 or 11 years old. The training was rigorous. Weekends could disappear into hours of practice. Saturdays and Sundays were spent dancing unless the children were away somewhere performing or competing. And they became very good. Nancy learned Irish dances. She learned Mexican dances. She learned folk dances belonging to cultures far beyond the one she had been born into. But she did not learn her own. “We did folk dancing, none of our dancing at all,” she said. “We did Irish dancing, Mexican, just everything, everything but your own.” The children trained hard enough that other dance teams struggled to beat them. Nancy can still feel the physical legacy of those years. She has trouble with her knees today and wonders whether so much dancing, combined with running, contributed to it. They practised. They competed. They performed. Eventually they travelled as far as Mexico. Nancy was around 12. To someone looking in from the outside, the image might have seemed SMILING THROUGH: continued on page 27
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almost enviable. Children travelling, performing, seeing places far from Kamloops. People would tell them how lucky they were. Nancy remembers something else. Whenever the children went out to dance, a nun stood off to the side watching. They could know every movement. They could perform well enough to win. They could travel to another country. But when they came offstage, Nancy remembers the nun scolding them if their faces had not shown what was expected. “You have to smile.” Nancy pauses differently when she remembers those performances now. “We were that good,” she said. “Well, I don’t think we were that
happy.” Travel did take them outside the residential school. It did not always take them somewhere safe. When the children travelled, they could be billeted in private homes for the weekend. Nancy remembers the nervousness of not knowing what kind of home they were entering. Some families treated the children well. Others did not. Only later did Nancy learn that some girls had been sexually abused while staying in billet homes. “We were never happy to be travelling,” she said. “We were always nervous because some of the people we stayed with weren’t very nice.” The children might stay for an entire RECONNECTING: continued on page 28
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 27 We honor the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and the families and communities who continue to carry this legacy.
September 30 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
We commit to listening, learning and supporting the ongoing work of truth and reconciliation, today and throughout the year. www.nvsss.ca
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RECONNECTING WITH FAMILY AND CULTURE SMILING THROUGH: continued from page 27 weekend, be fed by whoever had taken them in and then be brought back when it was time to perform. Nancy still does not know exactly why some families participated. She wondered whether money was involved, or whether Catholic families felt they were expected to take the children into their homes. She remembers that some stays were fine. She remembers others were not. “It was never ever happy, happy time.” Leaving the residential school grounds could feel like an escape, Nancy said, until the door of another unfamiliar home closed behind them. As she grew older, dance gave way to another kind of performance. Nancy joined a drum and bugle corps and became part of a marching band. They travelled and competed with other bands, including at St. Mary’s. Through those years, Nancy became skilled at performing in front of people. She could dance the dances she had been taught. She could march with the band. She could stand before crowds. Meanwhile, some of what she had known before any of that was becoming harder to find. Then high school ended. For perhaps the first time in Nancy’s life, the question was no longer simply what she had been told to do. It was what she wanted to do. Someone suggested she might make a good teacher. “Yeah, okay,” she remembers thinking. Nancy and a friend she had graduated with, along with several other girls from school, went to the University of Victoria. The doors had opened. The rules that had governed so much of Nancy’s childhood were suddenly gone. That freedom should have felt simple. It did not. “We were so used to somebody telling you what to do, when to do it, how to do it,” Nancy said. The young women stayed with Catholic
people who still gave them some structure, reminding them when they needed to go to school and what they needed to get done. Even then, Nancy remembers how unfamiliar independence felt. “We weren’t very independent at all.” For years someone else had decided when she woke up. When she went to church. When she ate. When she went to class. Where she could go. Who she could talk to. Then suddenly she was expected to make those decisions for herself. “We had too much freedom, and we didn’t know what to do with it,” she said. “You never had any freedom, per se, to do what you wanted to do.” Nancy made it through her first year at UVic. She returned for the second. By around October, she had dropped out. The road toward teaching did not end there. It simply took a different path. Eventually, Nancy became a teacher. There was another teacher waiting for her back home too. Her grandmother. Nancy did reconnect with the woman who had raised her. Her grandmother lived to such an old age that the family was not even certain exactly how old she was. Nancy would come home and stay with her. After years of being taught to turn away from parts of herself, she had someone there who could still reach back toward them. “She was our teacher,” Nancy said. Her grandmother told them things. She passed knowledge along. Nancy remembers some of it. Other things are harder. The years had done something strange to memory. Nancy’s sister sometimes helped unlock it. Her sister, who died almost four years ago, would occasionally begin with two PAINFUL: continued on page 29
Septem bear 3ottlrl is ,
NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUfrH AND RECONCILIATION amd ORANGE SHIRT DAV We wear orange in recognition of the injustice and harm caused by the residential school system and to pay remembrance to the many lives claimed in this unspeakable tragedy. Now, more than ever it is time to come together in unity and awareness.
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PAINFUL MEMORIES SHE WISHES TO FORGET RECONNECTING: continued from page 28 simple words. “Remember when?” And suddenly something Nancy had not been thinking about for years would return. “Oh my God, yeah.” The memory had been there somewhere. Nancy simply had not been able to reach it on her own. She still does not know exactly what happened to some of those missing pieces. “I don’t know if I’ve chosen to forget it, or it was just I forgot it because it was just so drilled out of me,” she said. Sometimes she thinks she chose not to remember. Sometimes she truly cannot. And sometimes a dream brings something back. She wakes up and wonders if what she has just seen was not a dream at all, but a memory finding its way through. Years later, Nancy found herself back in classrooms. This time, she was the teacher. Today she is retired from teaching and works as a Resident Elder at the University of the Fraser Valley, sitting with teacher candidates as they move through the Indigenous component of their education. She talks to them about residential school. There is something almost circular in where Nancy has ended up. The child who was once told which language she could speak now uses her own voice to teach. But being able to speak does not mean speaking is easy.
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“I shouldn’t say I’m used to it,” Nancy said. “I’m more comfortable talking about it now because I wasn’t until a few years ago.” She believes there can be healing in talking. There can also still be pain. A few years ago, Nancy put a photograph of herself on Facebook alongside a short piece about being taken to residential school. Now an instructor sometimes places that photograph in front of a room of future teachers. SURVIVORS: continued on page 30
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SURVIVORS WANT TO BE MORE THAN JUST PAIN PAINFUL: continued from page 29 Nancy sits there looking at the younger version of herself. Then comes the question. Does she want to talk more about it? Some days, she can. Some days, the photograph opens too much. “Sometimes I can’t,” Nancy said. “It just hurts me really. It comes back again, and other times I can just carry on.” On the days she can, she tells them. She tells people who may one day stand at the front of classrooms of their own. And sometimes what she hears back is disbelief. “Oh my gosh, really?” Nancy said that reaction floors her. These are people who have completed university degrees and are preparing to teach, yet some arrive knowing little about something Nancy lived through in her own lifetime. She wants them to understand what sits behind the words residential school survivor. “You may have read about it and you may have learned about it,” Nancy tells them, “but it’s not just part of a history book.” Nancy has also seen what happens when people
choose not to believe Survivors at all. Residential school denialism once made her deeply angry. Her husband understood that anger. He had attended residential school too, at St. Mary’s, and the two have spent years working through what those experiences left behind. He also understood there were people Nancy was never going to convince. “There’s nothing you can do about it,” she remembers him telling her. Some people had already decided what they believed. Eventually Nancy stopped giving them her energy. “If I see anything about it, I don’t engage in it,” she said. “I just let it go.” There was already enough weight in the stories of the people who had lived it. Some never found a way to tell theirs. Nancy’s brother was one of them. They had been only about a year apart. As children, they had lived inside the same residential school, separated by walls, rules and the brief glances Nancy could steal in church. As adults, he could not talk about what had happened there. When compensation became available to residential
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school Survivors, Nancy said her brother initially refused it. “No, I’m not taking that money,” she remembers him saying. Later, he changed his mind. But accepting compensation did not mean he had found a way to speak. Her sister believed he might have been getting close. Whatever he carried remained largely his. “He never ever could talk about it and never would,” Nancy said. “I know how horrific it must have been for him.” Her brother died before that story was ever told. “But he took it to his grave.” Her mother carried her own experiences quietly too. Others around Nancy did the same. Some people survived the schools and spent the rest of their lives unable to give words to what had happened inside them. There is another part of that silence that can be easy to judge when only the surface of a person’s life is seen. It is difficult not to wonder how many survivors found themselves trying to quiet pain they had never been given the words, the safety or the space to speak FINDING HEALING: continued on page 31
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FINDING HEALING THROUGH TRUTH TELLING SURVIVORS: continued from page 30 about. For years, many had been taught to stay silent, to obey, and to carry things they were never given a safe place to name. For some, alcohol may have become one way of dulling what could not be said, softening memories that never really left, or simply getting through days when the past felt too close. When pain has been carried quietly for years, sometimes numbing it can feel easier than trying to explain it. Nancy does not tell her story because she wants that pain to become the only thing people see when they look at her. “I’m a survivor, and I’ve never ever tried to have pity on myself,” she said. She does not want pity from anyone else either. “I don’t want people to feel sorry for me. I want them to know that it happened.”
Those are different things. To Nancy, knowing it happened means looking beyond the buildings themselves. Residential school did not simply end in someone’s life when they walked out the doors. The years travelled home with people. They entered adulthood with them. They followed them into marriages, relationships and families. They could live in the silence between people who had never been taught how to speak about pain. They remained in words of a language that no longer came as easily as it once had. They lived in memories that disappeared for decades and returned without warning. “This is why a lot of our people are the way they are,” Nancy said. A STORY: continued on page 32
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REFLECTING ON TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Highland Valley Copper honours the strength and resilience of survivors and intergenerational survivors and remembers the children who never came home. We remain committed to advancing reconciliation in partnership with communities. hvc.feedback@teck.com www.teck.com
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A STORY THAT CONTINUES TO BE TOLD FINDING HEALING: continued from page 31 And still, Nancy does not want that history understood only as damage. She wants it understood as truth. That is what she carries into the rooms where future teachers sit waiting for her to speak. “What I’m telling you is the truth,” Nancy said. She knows it is not an easy truth. “The truth is not good. I know for you guys hearing it, it’s not good.” There are days when Nancy can sit in front of that photograph of herself and talk. There are other days when the memories rise too close to the surface and she cannot. She allows both to be true. When she can speak, she does. Because to Nancy, healing does not begin by making the past sound gentler
than it was. “That’s the only way we can heal, is if we tell the truth.” Her grandmother once stood outside with a cane trying to keep the children she loved from being taken away. Her brother grew old enough to leave the school but never found a way to tell what happened to him there. Her mother carried parts of her own life quietly. Others carried theirs in silence until there was no longer anyone left to ask. Nancy knows how much can disappear when a person cannot speak. She also knows how much can remain when somebody finally does. Too many carried the truth to their graves. Nancy is leaving hers behind for the rest of us to carry.
On September 30 and every other day, you can educate yourself in many ways. Please take the time to listen, learn, and take action on
RECONCILIATION. The honorable Murray Sinclair once said,
“Education is what got us into this mess, and education will get us out.”
National Orange Shirt Day September 30
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NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION ̓ wʔéxʷ weʔ ƛuʔ - take care Today and always, remember to take care of yourself. Reflect, rest, connect, and reach out if you need support.
National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419 Call or text 988 for mental health crisis support. K’en T’em Limited Partnership
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SPORTS
GOT SPORTS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR INDIGENOUS DRAG RACING HITS YOUTH SPORTS AWARDS THE AIRPORT TRACKS JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald. com
Young Indigenous athletes in the Nicola Valley have another opportunity to be recognized for their accomplishments, with nominations now open for the 2026 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport. The awards, presented by the Province of B.C. in partnership with the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I-SPARC), recognize Indigenous youth who have excelled in sport while demonstrating leadership, commitment to education and connection to their culture and communities. The Nicola Valley has already produced several recipients of the awards in the past. Among them are athletes from the Upper Nicola Band, Lower Nicola and Merritt, including endurance
runner Darius Sam out of Lower Nicola, a member of the Neskonlith Band, and Keanu Manuel of Merritt, a member of Upper Nicola Band. Both were named Interior regional recipients for the 2021 awards. Vanessa Michel, a member of Upper Nicola Band, was also among that year’s Interior recipients. Merritt’s Clinton Kaboni, a member of Nipissing First Nation, was also named an Interior regional recipient for the 2020 awards for his achievements in field lacrosse and cross-country. More recently, Sadie Stewart of Upper Nicola Band - Okanagan was selected as an Interior regional recipient for the 2025 awards. Stewart was recognized for her achievements in rodeo. For 2026, athletes must be 24 years old or younger and have been a permanent resident of B.C. for at least 12
months. They must be of Indigenous ancestry, be actively participating in a recognized provincial, regional or traditional sport, and demonstrate a high level of athletic ability and performance. They must also be enrolled in school and pursuing, or planning to pursue, post-secondary education. The awards are open to Indigenous athletes from First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities. Nominees are evaluated on five areas: sport achievements, leadership qualities, education, cultural awareness and future goals. I-SPARC says the awards recognize athletes not only for what they accomplish in competition, but also for their leadership and contributions off the field. Only competitive results and accomplishments achieved between Oct. 1, 2025 and Oct. 1, 2026, will be
considered for this year’s awards. Nominations opened Sept. 10 and will remain open until Nov. 1, 2026. Late applications cannot be accepted. Up to six regional recipients will be selected from each of I-SPARC’s six regions, including the Interior region. From the regional recipients, 10 athletes will ultimately be selected as provincial recipients. The awards were established in 2015, and I-SPARC says past recipients have gone on to receive university scholarships, participate in Canadian national programs and the Olympics, and compete professionally. Athletes can be nominated through I-SPARC’s online grants and awards platform. For questions about the nomination process and more information, contact premiersawards@isparc.ca.
UPCOMING EVENTS Sept 26 vs Beaver Valley 7 pm Sept 30 vs Summerland 3 pm Oct 6 vs Princeton 7 pm Oct 16 vs Nelson 7 pm Nov 12 Icebreaker Dinner & Entertainment
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The Merritt Airport played host to a weekend of burning rubber on Sept. 11-13 when the Cache Creek drag races came to town, after a relocation due to a BC Wildfire Service contract.
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CENTS DROP THE PUCK ON NEW BCHC ERA Drop opener to Princeton, topple Columbia Valley
PHOTO/JAKE COURTEPATTE
(Top): The Merritt Centennials line up before their season opener against the Princeton Posse on Sept. 18, 2026. (Bottom): Merritt’s Morgan Page chases down the puck in front of some Princeton skaters.
JAKE COURTEPATTE
newsroom@merrittherald.com
A new page has been turned in the history of the Merritt Centennials, with over 700 packing the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena on Sept. 18 to witness the first game of the new BC Hockey Conference and a new era of junior hockey in B.C. Friday, Sept. 18 - Merritt Centennials 2, Princeton Posse 3 (OT) Just months removed from the finals of the now-defunct Kootenay International Junior Hockey League, the Princeton Posse paid a visit to their longtime rival Centennials to drop the puck on the BCHC season. It was Princeton that got on the board first just over six minutes into the first period, before Cents sophomore Tyler Smith sent the home crowd into a frenzy ten minutes later on the powerplay for Merritt’s first BCHC goal. Despite leading in shots 26 - 19 after two periods, it was Merritt that found themselves trailing again by the end of 40 minutes, with the Posse taking advantage of Morgan Page in the box for
boarding to score the only goal of the second period. The onslaught continued from the Merritt shooters into the third, where they outshot Princeton 15 - 4, with Smith managing his second of the game and the period’s only goal to tie it at two and send it to overtime. It took just one shot, however, in extra time for Princeton to earn the extra point and the win, 3 - 2. A familiar face was between the pipes for the Cents in Sam Saskiw, who was solid to start his second season with the Cents despite the loss, stopping 21 of the 24 shots he faced. Saturday, Sept. 19 - Merritt Centennials 5, Columbia Valley Rockies 2 The frenzy of pucks towards the opposite net continued for the Cents the following evening at home against the Columbia Valley Rockies, where Merritt led from the get-go after Morgan Page’s first of the year just over three minutes in. The Cents followed up with four more unanswered in the second period, with two from Nigel Alberts and one each from Mitchell Decoste and Callum
MacLean, before Columbia Valley finally broke the goose egg in the third. Saskiw once again held down the net for the Cents, making 25 stops on 27 shots to earn second star of the night honours. On the other end, Merritt managed a whopping 48 shots in the win. Rivalry rematch The Cents will have the opportunity to exact revenge on the Posse on Sept. 25 when they visit Princeton for the first road game of the season, before returning home the following night to
host the Beaver Valley Nitehawks at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. Puck drop is set for 7p.m. After the first week of play, the Cents sit top of the BCHC’s Interior Division with three points after two games, tied with the Quesnel River Rush and Revelstoke Grizzlies and leading the Kamloops Storm and Williams Lake Mustangs. Merritt’s first divisional matchup does not come until Friday, Oct. 2 when they visit the Storm in Kamloops. For stats, schedules, and more information, visit www.merrittcentennials.com.
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Thank you to all who participated, and to our incredible volunteers for making this year’s tournament a success. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR!
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NICOLA VALLEY
GOT STORIES? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241
THE HIDDEN WORLD OF CONTAIN-IT STORAGE FUNGI IN THE NICOLA VALLEY
PHOTO/HERALD FILES
A handful of chestnut mushrooms .
ELIZABETH JOLICOEUR
community@merrittherald. com Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
There’s fungus among us, and with mushroom season almost here, the forest floor is getting ready for a cap comeback as a bunch of fun guys pop up unannounced and make things a little more spore-tacular. As cooler nights and damper weather creep into the Nicola Valley, mushrooms will soon begin showing up along
trails, beneath trees and in all the strange little places they seem to appear overnight. But while the colourful caps get the attention, most of the action is happening where nobody can see it. Dr. Naowarat “Ann” Cheeptham, professor of cave microbiology at Thompson Rivers University, has spent years studying and advocating for the tiny organisms humans tend to overlook. “Humans have many blind spots,” Cheeptham wrote. “One of them is
the fact that we cannot see you naturally.” That unseen world includes fungi and the networks working beneath the forest floor. Cheeptham describes microorganisms as the quiet heavy lifters of the natural world, breaking things down, recycling nutrients and helping move those nutrients between soil, plants, animals and the wider environment. “Your fungal networks hold ecosystems together,” she wrote. She points to research sometimes nicknamed the “wood wide web,” describing the sprawling fungal connections that exist beneath our feet. And those microscopic workers are not exactly taking coffee breaks. “You are also the world’s best recyclers,” Cheeptham wrote. “You break things down, recycle, and transform nutrients back and forth between Earth, life, and environments.” Without that recycling, fallen leaves, dead wood and other organic material would not simply disappear into the forest floor and feed new growth the way they do. Microorganisms help drive nutrient cycles, support food webs, contribute to oxygen production and even help break down pollutants.
They also deserve a little better public relations. Microbes are often associated with germs and illness, but Cheeptham notes that only about one per cent of the microorganisms scientists know about make people sick. The rest are doing everything from helping ecosystems function to assisting with digestion, vitamin production and immune health inside our own bodies. “You are the masters of adaptation,” Cheeptham wrote, describing microorganisms as tiny, versatile and extraordinarily resilient. For her, the bigger lesson is that humans are not standing outside of nature looking in.
“We are of nature,” she wrote. So when mushroom season arrives and little caps start popping through the forest floor, there is more going on than a few weird looking fungi making an appearance. The mushrooms may be the fun guys above ground, but underneath them is an entire invisible workforce recycling, connecting and quietly keeping the natural world running. Not bad for something most of us nearly step on.
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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
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It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Tyler Chypyha, age 44, on August 24, 2026, in Chipman, New Brunswick. Tyler was born in Merritt, British Columbia, on July 20, 1982. Ty was an artist through and through. He had a remarkable ability to see beauty and possibility where others might not. A tradesman, builder, carver, singer-songwriter, poet, musician, played drums and bass guitar, he expressed himself through creativity & his love of life. Whether he was writing poetry, making music, creating art, or building something with his hands, Ty left a piece of himself behind. He had a great sense of humour, a big personality, strong opinions, and absolutely no interest in being anyone other than himself. He loved wrestling, music, creating things, and making people laugh. He believed in God and carried his faith in his own way. At the time of Tylers passing he was pursueing a career to become a correctional officer. Above all, Ty was a husband and a father. He was the beloved husband of Kate McFarlane Chypyha and the proud father of Phillip and Peyton, who were at the heart of his life. His greatest legacy will be the love, creativity, humour, strength & wisdom he passed on to them. He will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Ivan and Dawn Chypyha; his siblings Tonya, Ryan & Alana & their families as well as numberous friends.
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We would like to thank all of our family and friends for your support at this time. In honour of Ty’s memory, please join us for a celebration of life at the Lower Nicola Community Hall, on October 3, 2026, at 1:00 pm, with refreshments to follow.
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Tyler “Ty” John Chypyha July 20, 1982 - August 24, 2026
Help Wanted
Junior nłeʔképmx Coordinator (sqayxʷ) (Interim Coverage) Health, Safety, and Wellness Specialist HR Generalist Youth Programs Coordinator
secure.collage.co/jobs/citxw-nlakapamux-assembly
Cultural Heritage Technician Executive Assistant
www.kentem.ca/jobs
FOR SALE Updated 2-Bedroom Condo 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo. Ground-floor corner unit featuring a covered patio. Call 250-315-2249 for more information.
Quality Control Manager Light Duty Mechanic Quality Control Coordinator Surveyor cantexminingservices.ca/jobs Project Coordinator and more!
38 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
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Legal/Public Notices
Legal/Public Notices
Legal/Public Notices
LAND ACT:
Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society Stoyoma Dental Clinic EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land
POSITION TITLE: CERTIFIED Dental Assistant REPORTS TO: Dental Clinic Manager
Take notice that I City of Merritt, from Merritt, BC, has
RESPONSIBILITIES: • The CDA has a strong knowledge of chairside dental assisting. They are essential to creating a connection between clients and dentists. The incumbent maintains a collaborative relationship with clients and all members of the oral health-care team to deliver the highest level of client-centered care.
and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), Thompson Okanagan
applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land Region, for a Statutory Right of Way for Community Institutional purpose situated on Provincial Crown land located at unsurveyed Right of Way over unsurveyed
• We are seeking a positive team member, who is energetic, organized and is a compassionate caring individual. Our dental services are available to the public with a focus on serving and meeting the complex needs of local First Nation individuals.
Crown foreshore being part of the bed of the Coldwater
• Promotes the safety and well-being of clients while in service and when necessary, communicates immediate concerns to appropriate Stoyoma Dental staff for further follow up.
WLRS invites comments on this application, the Lands File is 3413819. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the Land Officer, Thompson Okanagan Region, WLRS up to October 1, 2026. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision Database website at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.
River, KDYD, containing 0.5062 hectares, more or less.
• Committed to positive and inclusive dental practices to provide the best patient experience. • Applies attention to detail and accuracy in all reporting. We offer a competitive salary of $27-$31/hr based on experience and full benefits with pension. This position is permanent averaging 3-5 days per week Monday to Friday. Please submit resume to: Stoyoma Dental Clinic 2088 Quilchena Avenue - PO Box 3090 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 or email: palmgren.d@schss.com
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Legal/Public Notices
Legal/Public Notices
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.
Legal/Public Notices
Forest Operations Maps Notice
001-866-672
(¯$004-769$-139004-769-1
009-174-460
025-941-755
012-122-262
011-982-845
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
The FOM is valid for 3 years during which the FOM may be relied upon to apply for a cutting permit or road permit to harvest a cutblock or construct a road shown on the FOM.
009-528-717
Voght Street
009-528-695
M e r r i t t
018-414-567 004-186-427
Col
012-122-301
dw a te
rR
iver
004-177-126
005-568-501 025-159-780
Roa
d
013-310-577
Cre ek
The FOM is also available for in-person review and comments at 4280 Highway 6, Lumby, BC, during business hours of 8:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday except on Stat Holidays. Comments can also be submitted by email at TolkoWoodlandsCommunications@tolko.com
009-528-725
001-730-461
ley
• Steady day shift work • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train
009-528-709
003-001-059
Lind
• Wages: starting $20 to $28
(depends on experience & attendance)
008-286-981
005-820-171
025-069-292
PRODUCTION WORKERS (FT/PT)
Review and comment period: September 25th, 2026, to October 25th, 2026.
002-918-391
\\ca0183-pbagf01\Workgroup\1232\projects\111700802\figures\reports\CrownLandTenureApplication\APRX.aprx Layout: fig_111700802_CLTA_02_Application_Area Map: Main Map Frame Revised: 2026-07-28 ByLTrudell
VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT
Tolko’s Southern Interior Woodlands Forest Operational Map (FOM) is available for public review and comments online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects
Prince George
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Hinton "
"
Bella Bella
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Williams Lake
Red Deer"
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Calgary "
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Olympia "
Edmonton "
Kamloops
Campbell River
Pacific Victoria " Ocean
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Lethbridge
Land Ownership Private Land Landwith Mixed Ownership Municipal Land
Crown Land Tenure Application Area
0
10
20
30
40
1:1,000 (at original document size of 11X17)
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Project Location: Seattle
Merrit British Columbia
"
Project Number: 111700802 Prepared by LTRUDELL on 20260728 Requested by SLAYHER on 20290718 Checked by SLAYHER on 20290728
Client/Project/Report
1:30,000,000
Cityof Merritt Claybanks Dike Crown Land Tenure Application 100466235
Notes 1. Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 10N 2. Data Sources: DataBC, Government of British Columbia; Natural Resources Canada
Figure No.
2
Title
Project Boundary Land Ownership Disclaimer: Stantec assumes no responsibility for data supplied in electronic format. The recipient accepts full responsibility for verifying the accuracy and completeness of the data. The recipient releases Stantec, its officers, employees, consultants and agents, from any and all claims arising in any way from the content or provision of the data.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER.
ns io t u l o S l l a w y r D y e l Nicola Val
L o c a l BUSINESS DIRECTORY Office: 403-996-2369 WaiAl.cLomL @gm nsY nicolavalleydrywallsolutDioR
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | 39
TREE REMOVAL SERVICE
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PLUMBING & HEATING
Nicola Plumbing & Heating
FULLY QUALIFIED TRADESMAN IN: Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.
Service work, furnace service and custom sheet Certified Plumbers & Gas Fitters wanted - apply
206 4 Coutlee Ave.
C e r t if ie d F a ll e r
BC TREE SOLUTIONS
Call Darel at 250-315-8516
S WINDOW COVERING dow
Style, Comfort & Control for Every Win
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Horizontal & Vertical Featuring Sheers, Cellular Shades, on. Blinds, and PowerView® Motorizati s
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www.nicolaplumbingandheating.com
email: nicplumb@telus.net
Serv ing Merr itt & Surr ound ing area FULLY INSU RED /WC B COV ERE D
TSBC Licence #LGA00 02534
Ph: 250-378-4943
MOBILE WELDING
MOBILE WELDING SERVICE
Forgaard’s WELDING Ltd. Nate Forgaard - Owner
RED SEAL CERTIFIED • 20+ YRS EXPERIENCE Phone: 250-315-8710 email: forgaardswelding@outlook.com
WE OFFER Free Travel,
On-Site Measurement & Quotes email: shauna@ashcroftinteriorblinds.com
Call/text 250-457-7195
EXCAVATING
Gary ’s Mini Excavating Service • Small Job Specialist • Dump Trailer Service • Fencing & Post Pounder • Fully Insured email: garylsedore@gmail.com
Cell: 250-315-3174
Call Gary Sedore for FREE ESTIMATES: 250-37
8-4312
POOL MAINTENANCE NICOLA VALLEY POOL SERVICE Swimming Pool Maintena
nce
Daily, Weekly or Monthly Services available Commercial & Residentia l
• Pool Chemistry and Testing Filters • Boilers • Pump s Shawn Worrin: Owner/Operator 15 Years Experience 250-280-7533 sworrin@outlook.co m
TREE SERVICE JIM POTTER
MERRITT TREE SERVICE • Fully insured, certified faller • WSBC covered • Dangerous tree assessment ➤Schedule your FREE Estimate
CALL JIM at 250-378-4212
Solutions for your tree problems!
40 | THURSDAY, September 24, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
K‘en T’em Limited Partnership K’en T’em Limited Partnership has acquired Best-Valu Glass, a trusted Merritt business serving the region since 1982. The acquisition brings automotive, residential, commercial and industrial glass services into K’en T’em’s growing network of nłeʔképmx-owned businesses, while creating new opportunities for employment, training and long-term growth. Best-Valu Glass will continue serving its customers and community, with longtime owner Judy West staying on as manager as the business enters its next chapter. We’re excited to build on more than 40 years of local service and keep growing opportunities here in nłeʔképmx territory.