Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo and Fall Fair In Merritt BC
The Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo and Fall Fair is an Annual Tradition.
Don your hat and pull your boots on.
Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo and Fall Fair in Merritt BC Canada – The Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo was always held on Saturday, August 31st – Sunday, September 1st, in Merritt, British Columbia. Held at Nicola Valley Rodeo Association grounds here in Merritt. Due to Covid19 this favorite event is on hold.
Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo
Because pictures can tell a story, I wanted to add quotes that represented the cowboys, cowgirls, and everyone who loves to watch, admire, and cheer these amazing athletes on who truly love what they do. Enjoy the pictures along with Cowboy and Cowgirl Quotes.
Hold tight! Photo by Tania Stewart.
To Demonstrate How To Ride a Bull.
“If your not makin’ dust your eaten’ it” Cricket, June 3, 2008
Although It Looks Easy, She is Just That Good.
“If my boots and spurs ain’t here, I’m probably riding and drinking beer. Horses are God’s gift to cowgirls as an apology for men.” Andrea, June 3, 2009. Photo by TStewart.
To Be Sure You Have a Strong Grip.
Photo courtesy Tania Stewart.
“Learn this well, the last ride is never the last ride. And the end is not the end.” Richard Rowland
Furthermore This Takes Two.
Photo by Tania Stewart.
“A Cowgirl is a woman with guts and horse.” TS
Subsequently The Saviors Are On Hand.
Get out of the way! Photo courtesy Tania Stewart.
“A true cowboy knows love, pain and shame but never cares about fame.” Anonymous
Longest 8 Seconds Ever.
Ride! Photo Tania Stewart.
“The only good reason to ride a bull is to meet a nurse.” Anonymous
While Riding The Bull Is Hard, Getting Out of Danger Continues.
Not for me! Photo taken by Tania Stewart.
“Ride E’m Cowboy, don’t let them throw ya down.. You can’t make no money if ya hit the ground, Ride E’m Cowboy, don’t let them throw ya down, You’re the toughest Cowboy in town.” Juice Newton
Again, 8 Seconds.
Hang er on! Photo courtesy Tania Stewart.
“Pain and rodeo go hand in hand.” Snake, April 1, 2009
Granted They Make it Look Easy.
“It aint worth fussin’ about unless the bone is showin’ or you ain’t got no feelin’ in it…even then you should cowboy up and walk it off.” Mat, October 21, 2008
To Be Sure You Can Not Use Both Hands.
“If you haven’t fallen off a horse…then you haven’t been ridin long enough.” Unknown
Furthermore it Begins Early.
“I took to the life of a cowboy like a horse takes to oats.” Anonymous
“No man should have cowboys boots in his wardrobe. That’s fair enough, isn’t it? Unless you’re a cowboy, of course.” Paul Weller
Truly This Should Be An Olympic Sport.
“The horse is a mirror to your soul. And sometimes you might not like what you see in the mirror.” Buck Brannaman
Truly a Joy to Watch!
“Cowgirl Up! Means to rise to the occasion, not to give up, and to do it all without whining or complaining.” Whitney, November 9, 2008
Do Not Try This At Home.
“Some cowboys have to much tumbleweed in their blood to settle down.” Ken Alstad
The Next Time You Want to go Trail Riding, hold on. Tight!
“If you climb in the saddle, be ready for the ride.” Ashton Jennings, April 10, 2013
Can You Say Cute?
Bravo! Photo from Tania Stewart.
“A cowboy is a man with guts and a horse.” William James
Time to Run!
Run! Picture by Tania Stewart.
“Bull riding is probably the most dangerous sport in the world in terms of head injuries.” Jonathan Gottschall
Furthermore Bull Riding takes Guts!
Great grip! Photo by Tania Stewart.
“Rodeo careers can end without warning, as quick as the next try at an eight-second ride.” John Branch
To Demonstrate how Cowgirls Cool Off.
This is pure “Relaxation”
If it was easy, everyone would do it.
Shake it off. Photo by Tania Stewart.
“When you’re young and you fall off a horse, you may break something. When you’re my age, you splatter.” Roy Rogers
This time I Got Err Done.
“True cowboys are the ones who aren’t afraid to get dirty.” Lane Frost
Moreover its all About the Spectators.
“A good old rodeo never hurt anyone.” Taylor Kitsch
When it Takes a Team.
“A real cowboy doesn’t have to say they are a cowboy you know, the smell, the expression and the heart tells itself. ” cowgirlmaine, November 19, 2009
When you are in the Bull Pen.
In Conclusion
Held at Nicola Valley Rodeo Grounds. Attending this event is truly a Nicola Valley Experience you wont forget.
Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo
CONTACT INFORMATION
Nicola Valley Rodeo Association
499 Lindley Creek Road,
Merritt, British Columbia
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/rodeo5.jpg9601280Tania Stewarthttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngTania Stewart2019-07-19 22:30:582024-04-19 16:36:13Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo and Fall Fair In Merritt BC
Unique and Beautiful handmade products in the heart of Merritt BC
“Merritt BC has a wonderful little shop called Creative Company and there you will find something for everyone.”
Places to shop in Merritt BC. Creative Company is a shop located in our downtown core where local artisans share and celebrate the art works and skills of our Nicola Valley artists. These art pieces include: Stained Glass, Hand Woven Scarves and Tea Towels, Handbags, Silver Jewelry, Baby and Children’s Clothing and Blankets, Photography, Slate and Wood Products Western Home Decor, and much more.. So many different and neat items. You will want to go in and check out Creative Company for a special gift or grab something for yourself.
Outside of Creative Company in Merritt BC Canada
Art Places to Shop in Merritt BC
Creative Company was founded in 1989 by locals who saw a vision of bringing artisans together to display their works with the people of the Nicola Valley and with visitors exploring the valley.
Let me introduce you to the first 4 artisans of Creative Company . I was fortunate enough to interview each one. I am sure that you will enjoy their stories as much as I have. Take some time to stop into this great gift shop in Merritt BC. Say hello and purchase something for yourself or your loved ones.
Unique Wooden Bowls by Pat Tombe
Beautiful bowls and plates made by Pat Tombe
Michelle Bacon (MB): Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Pat Tombe (PT): After spending most of my life taking things way too seriously and way too much time making a living, my wife Cathy and I made a change by moving to the Sunshine Valley outside Lower Nicolaand commencing semi-retirement. This has allowed time to pursue activities that I never considered before. Instead of spending all my retirement fishing and golfing, I spend most of my time in my workshop making furniture and turnings.
(MB) : When did you start creating these beautiful bowls and join Creative Company?
(PT) :I started wood turning in late 2017 and joined Creative Company in December of 2018. I really enjoy taking a bland piece of wood and carving it into a pleasing shape both to the eye and the hands. Therefore my wood turning focus has been on bowls, platters, plates and hollow forms.
MB : Can you tell us a bit more about your wood working creations?
PT : I especially enjoy adding embellishments by way of carving, pyrography, dye, paint and texturing. One uses all manner of weird things in the process – guitar strings, blow torches, chainsaws, drills, hot metal, chisels, nail punches, nails, metal flakes, rust, crushed rocks, flowers etc. Also, one may start with a “plan’ but as the process is carried out sometimes I am amazed at where I end up.
And more about Pat’s work
PT : As with many things when learning something new I have applied the time proven strategy of doing everything wrong until I discover a new way – many times by accident. I still have many misadventures to cross off my list. I was amazed how involved the process can be and it sometimes may take me weeks to complete a piece. This results in having many pieces on the go. Once in a while some things turn out mostly right and with the encouragement of the nice people at Creative Company I offer these turnings to you.
If you were interested in more of Pat’s work you can email him at ptombe@tombeherrington.ca or call 250-378-9492
Vicky Martin Knitting and Crocheting
MB: Tell me a bit about yourself.
Hand crafted crocheted and knitted items by Vicky Martin.
VM : I have lived in Merritt for 40 years. I worked at Overwaitea Food for 25 years and then real estate for 5 years. Since I retired I have been very busy with my crafts. Self taught knitter and crocheter. I learned how to spin yarn and how to weave. I feel pretty lucky that I am able to do something that I love and pass it along to others through Creative Company.
MB : What products are you showcasing in Creative Company?
VM : I weave ladies and men’s scarves and tea towels. I have many crocheted items and many knitted items such as ladies, men’s and children’s toques, scarves, coats. Also, head bands, slippers, gloves, summer hats and other miscellaneous items. Hot and cold rice packs.
MB : How long have you been with Creative Company?
VM : I have been with Creative Company for 3 years.
Thank you for your time Vicky, I am sure our readers will be excited to come in and check out your beautiful creations at Creative Company in Merritt BC.
Richard Tenisch Silversmith
Sterling silver rings, earrings, buckles and more.
MB : Hello Richard, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
RT : Born and raised on a small farm in Switzerland and with the love of horses and open spaces. I decided to work as a cowboy. Then took a silversmith course 20 years ago. I have been doing buckles, earrings etc ever since.
MB : What types of products have you been sharing in Creative Company?
RT:I have buckles, earrings, conchs, pendants, rings, scarf slides, bracelets and money clips. As well as horse gear for saddles and headstalls all in sterling silver.
MB : How long have you been sharing your products in Creative Company?
RT : 6 years now I have been with Creative Company.
Thank you Richard, you have some absolutely stunning pieces of jewelry.
MB : Good afternoon Sheila, we would love to hear a bit about yourself.
Sheila Schwan weaver in Merritt BC Canada
SS: Retired to Merritt area to a small acreage off Mamit Lake Road. Started weaving about 10 years ago and fell in love with the craft. Also spin, knit, crochet, cross stitch and rug hook.
MB : What types of products do you have at Creative Company?
SS : I have woven scarves, blankets, place mats and runners. As well as, hand spun yarn and dryer balls. Custom orders are welcome.
MB : How long have you been with Creative Company?
SS : I have been with Creative Company for 3 years now.
If you would like to see any of these artisans products then this is one of the gift shops to go to in Merritt BC.
Creative Company located at 2074 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, British Columbia V1K 1B8
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/creative_company_outside.jpg6671000Michelle Baconhttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngMichelle Bacon2019-07-15 22:36:402020-02-11 17:46:39Places to shop in Merritt BC – Creative Company
Celebrating Aboriginal Day in Merritt BC June 21, 2019
People in the Nicola Valley Celebrate Aboriginal Day
We celebrated Aboriginal Day in the Nicola Valley Merritt BCon June 21, 2019. Canada’s Governor General proclaimed the first National Aboriginal Day in 1996. Every year since then June 21 is the day for all Canadians to celebrate Canada’s First Nation’s Aboriginal Peoples.
There are three Aboriginal groups in Canada – the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Celebrating Aboriginal Day in The Nicola Valley Merritt BC
Along with the pounding Heartbeat of Mother Earth, the Regalia worn by the dancers will surely amaze you. A great day at Merritt’s Rotary Park on June 21, 2019. In case you missed it here is my photo collage for you to enjoy.
Aboriginal Day June 21, 2019.
Aboriginal Dance Regalia
Regalia is unique and sacred to each dancer. Therefore not to be ever confused with or referred to as costumes. Regalia is adorned with various materials. Most noteworthy Regalia outfits feature intricate beadwork (often sewn by a family member or friend), while others use ribbons, shiny materials or the use of traditional materials, such as porcupine quills. While the ceremonial dress is beautiful to look at, pow wow etiquette requests that observers not touch or take pictures of dancers’ regalia without permission.
Crystal Spahan with her children dressed in their traditional First Nation regalia.
Crystal’s regalia hand sewn and made by her Aunt.
Crystal Spahan with her two beautiful children in their Regalia.
Beautiful Handmade Regalia
Noteworthy Crystal Spahan’s elaborate shawl is uniquely decorated with distinct flower patterns, beadwork along with flowing fringes.
Back on the Red Road for the last 2 years.
Pow Wow Dances are Expressions of Indigenous Spirituality, History and Culture
In addition with the festivities going on, Aboriginal Day is also a day of learning about Canada’s Indigenous culture. In fact I was honored to meet Stuart Patrick preparing his sons Regalia along with his own. He was ensuring that their regalia was well-secured before their performance. Furthermore, I was welcome to interview Stuart Patrick.
Stuart Patrick
(Q1) Are you from the Nicola Valley?
(Stuart Patrick) I am from Uclue Let (U-Cloo-let) Vancouver Island. I went to 2 residential schools, Christy Residential in Tofino first, and then closed Kamloops Residential School down.
(Q2) When did you start to dance?
(Stuart Patrick) I dance for survival. I have quit cutting my hair, I am done with mourning. We lost our Potlatch rights when I was seven. I have always chased the “Pow wow” We dance for the seven generations before us, and for the seven generations after us. I started walking the “Red Road”. After the second year you pick what you want, like dancing, drumming. You join the circle for life.
Raven Patrick. Pow wow clothing and accessories are created with great care and attention, hold deep meaning and spiritual significance to the dancer.
(Q3) Were did you get your Eagle feathers?
(Stuart Patrick) A Fire Fighter from Merritt found a dead Eagle and gave the feathers to me.
(Q4) Do your children also dance?
(Stuart Patrick) My son Jacob is wearing my first Regalia outfit. And my daughter Raven is wearing the blue Regalia outfit. They both perform regularly throughout BC. We go to Pow Wows and perform at University’s and College’s.
(Q5) Who makes your Regalia?
(Stuart Patrick) Janice Sheena and Abraham Sheena. The beadwork.
(Q6) What dances do you perform?
(Stuart Patrick) I do traditional potlatch mask dancing. The Humming Bird and the Chicken Dance.
Jacob Patrick with his father Stuart Patrick.
In Addition
Celebrating Indigenous Day in full Regalia. Merritt BC Rotary Park.
The Work and Detail that Goes Into These Beautiful Regalia Dress
Desiree Dick has been dancing since she was 3 yrs old. Along with her mother Adriene Johnny & sister Kirsten Dick (Hand Drummer at MSS) they all have a “Passion for the Pow Wow”. Desiree’s Grandmother was the artist behind her Regalia.
Desiree Dick
With The Beating of The Drums and The Dancers Performance
While the Dancers take great care to ensure that their regalia is well-secured before a performance. Losing a part of regalia during a dance could cost a dancer the competition. Although this day was not a competition, but the work and care is very visible.
Cliff…. Stuart Patrick and son Jacob.
Additionally More Beautiful Regalia
Nadine Jules with daughter.
Awesome attendance at Merritt Rotary Park on Aboriginal Day
Furthermore with the beating of the drums and performing dancers. Everyone in attendance had a amazing day!
People enjoying the festivities.
Pounding of Your Heartbeat
Above all hearing the Drum beat along with the vocals gathers all peoples together, regardless of gender, belief, or race. The throbbing pull of the Drum connects us, one to another, with the pounding Heartbeat of Mother Earth.
The Drummers. Leanard Bear Shirt, Robin Boston, Nadine Jules, Joelee Meldrum, Nate Dawgg. Red Spotted Horse.
A Bit of Culture Education
Drumming has always played a significant role in education, healing, history and ceremonies of the Native American peoples. Oral histories and stories, accompanied by drumming, play a vital role in passing on ancestral traditions and customs to new generations.
Warming of the Drum.
The Sound of the Drums Could be Heard Through Out the Nicola Valley
Nate Dawgg. Drummer & Dancer
Additionally A Teepee Was Set Up For All To Enjoy
Getting in touch with my Aboriginal Heritage.
Celebrating Indigenous Culture
Especially seeing all the Regalia and the dancing can transform you back in time.
Full Regalia
After All
Proclaimed June 21 National Aboriginal Day in 1996. It is a day to celebrate Canada’s First Nation’s Aboriginal peoples. Make sure you mark your calendar next year, June 21.
Teepee set up at Merritt BC Rotary Park for Aboriginal Day Celebrations.
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/DSC05847-2.jpg7671754Tania Stewarthttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngTania Stewart2019-07-12 01:23:222019-08-26 17:59:22Celebrating Aboriginal Day In Merritt BC
Where to get a coffee in Merritt British Columbia, Canada
“Double, Double is a very Canadian term! However, I am a 2 cream and 1 sugar type of Canadian.”
Anybody who knows me well knows that the Merritt BC Tim Horton’s is one of the coffee shops I visit regularly while I have been consulting here in Merritt British Columbia, Canada in the Nicola Valley. Satisfying my java craving, some call it an addiction, comes easy for me as I have come to know many of the Merritt coffee shop owners by name.
Merritt BC Tim Horton’s Java Fix
However, at the Merritt Tim Horton’s they know me by sight and know my coffee order before I even speak a word. I guess I have made an impression. Not sure if that is a compliment or a dig? I am going to take it as a compliment. Why? Because I truly enjoy building quality connections and friendships wherever I go. If they know my order and serve it to me with a smile I must be doing something right. Better yet, they are the ones doing something right!
Nick, helping his staff, multi tasking as he helps serve his customers.
I Like Coffee
I like coffee a lot! In fact, I may just like meeting positive people even more. There is no doubt, when I can get both when ordering a coffee I am the big winner. The more I enjoy the conversations, laughs, stories and the company of an individual the more I want to support their business. The trick is to find the positive people in and among the negative. Harder to do then it sounds too.
I have seen plenty in my coffee travels while criss-crossing this great country. And the truth be told there are both. There are positive and negative coffee shop owners. The Tim Horton’s in Merritt BC has always served me a positive experience every time.
Nick and I at Merritt BC Tim Horton’s
Meeting Merritt BC Tim Horton’s Owner
So you can imagine my delight meeting Nick, the owner of the Merritt BC Tim Horton’s – the home of the “Double, Double” (Canadian slang for ordering 2 cream and 2 sugar with their Tim Horton coffee). After I arrived in Merritt to do some tourism consulting it took a few coffees before Nick and I eventually connected. We introduced ourselves to each other and we hit it off right away. From then on in Nick has always made an effort to say a quick Hi even when his coffee shop is a buzzing.
The Apple Never Falls Far Away From The Tree
Then I started meeting his staff at the Merritt BC Tim Horton’s, one by one, while ordering my “Timmies”. We built a relationship over the counter and now I am “fist bumping” with some of the staff when I visit. So cool, right!
Merritt BC Tim Horton’s Supports The Community Website
Nick and I started our chit-chats on a more regular basis. Soon later, Nick got wind of a website launch party in Merritt being held at the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame celebrating the new Tourism Nicola Valley “Living” Website. As a result, Nick offered to provide the coffee, tea and some “Tim Bits” (donut holes) to snack on. Thank you Tim Horton’s! Good thing too, because there was a lot of people.
Walk Of Stars – Ian Tyson – Merritt Tim Horton’s
Walk Of Stars
Outside the front door of the Tim Horton’s coffee shop there is a wooden display with a hand print of a country music star. These hand prints are located throughout the City of Merritt and are part of the Walk Of Stars self guided tour. In total there are said to be over 72+ hand prints plus 1 foot print. How cool is that. The Walk Of Stars display in front of the Tim Horton’s coffee shop celebrates the country music star, Ian Tyson.
Meet and Greet Over A Timmies
I finally freed up some time to meet with the owner of the Merritt Tim Horton’s, Nick. For some time now I have wanted to to tell his story and feature his Merritt business. We sat down recently for a quick chit-chat about his story and his Tim Horton’s.
Talking Merritt and Tim Horton’s with Nick
Here are the questions I asked Nick when we sat down:
(Q1) Why did you select Merritt BC as your location for Tim Horton’s?
(Nick) Merritt is such a wonderful place, just like paradise. It is a peaceful city. Very nice people here.
(Q2) What makes Tim Horton’s special?
(Nick) A great place for all to gather together and meet. Our menu is always growing. We treat our guests on a personal level and we work hard to welcome everyone as they come through the door.
(Q3) Tell us about your menu?
(Nick) We have breakfast sandwiches like sausage and egg on a biscuits, bagels, and english muffins. Tim Horton’s just rolled out a vegan menu now with “Beyond Meat” too. We have a lunch menu with cheese, turkey and other types of melts. In a few days we will be launching the “Beyond Meat” Burgers. However, our selection of soups seems to get a lot of attention. And of course our pastries like donuts, fritters, muffins, bagels and others.
Tim Horton’s in Merritt BC
(Q4) Tell us about your staff?
(Nick) My staff is wonderful. We are a mixture of personalities. We encourage friendly service etiquette therefore living up to the standards set out by Tim Horton’s. I have a wonderful, wonderful staff. I am very lucky.
(Q5) Where do you see Merritt Tim Horton’s in the future?
(Nick) Hopefully we can establish another location on the other side of town. Keep improving our site and, just maybe, we would like to put a patio. We want everyone to feel like home.
(Q6) Is there anything else you would like to share?
(Nick) Merritt and the Nicola Valley are a wonderful place to live, work and play. It is a wonderful tourist destination. I want everyone to come and enjoy Merritt, meet the people, and come to see why we love it here. In conclusion we have everything here in the Nicola Valley including a lot of lakes, adventure trails, parks, and attractions like a golf course and the Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame. There is so much more.
Country Music Hall of Fame Artist on The Merritt BC Mural Walk – Terri Clark
Canadian Country Hall of Fame Artist – Terri Clark
Clark says, “There’s no formula for making it – everyone has there own journey.”
Results Of A Vision
Country Music Hall of Fame Artist, Terri Clark with over 5 million albums sold, as well as critically acclaimed international tours, and a string of hit singles, has solidified her place in the history books of Canadian Country Music.
Together with being a three time Juno award winner, and Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee. Clark also holds the honor of being the only Canadian female member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry.
Terri has been named CCMA Female Vocalist of the year, five times and has taken home eight CCMA Fan’s Choice Awards. In total Clark has had the honor of receiving 19 Canadian Country Music Awards.
Canadian Country Hall of Fame Artist – Terri Clark
History Of The Star
Clark was born Terri Lynn Sauson on August 5, 1968 in Montreal Quebec, Canada. Her family moved and settled in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Raised in Medicine Hat, Terri is the third of four children. She has a younger brother Peter and two older sisters Kim and Tina. Terri`s parents divorced when she was young. Her mother remarried and Terri took on her stepfather`s last name.
Terri was part of a musical family. Ray and Betty Gautier, Clark`s grandparents, were both Canadian Country Musicians. They opened for numerous artist including George Jones and Johnny Cash. Her mother was a part of the folk scene playing coffee houses.
The Beginning of a Dream
Terri moved from Medicine Hat after graduation in 1987 to Nashville, Tennessee. She was 18 years old and moved lock, stock and barrel. She didn’t have a green card and didn’t know anybody. The only thing solid thing she took with her was a dream and some faith.
Once she hit Nashville she wandered into Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and asked if she could sing. She became the club’s house singer after management heard her sing. Even though this was a big step forward she wasn’t there yet. For the next seven years, she sang the clubs and worked odd jobs to survive. She never gave up and continued to try and land a record deal.
“At one point when things weren’t going all that great. I called my mom and I said, “I wanna come home.” She said, “Terri, if you do that, I don’t want you when you are 50 years old, to be sitting there going, “What woulda happened?”
Terri’s roots was traditional country. Traditional country at the time wasn’t something of interest to Country Music executives. But record producer and singer Keith Stegall gave her advice not to give up. Then in 1994, she landed an audition for Mercury Records. After seeing Clark perform live, the label’s president signed her on the spot.
Terri Clark Came Storming Out of Canada 1995-1997
Terri Clark came out of Canada capturing the attention of America’s Country Music Industry.
Clark stayed close to her country roots, even if those roots were closer to new country than traditional country. Clark issued her first single, “Better things to do” in early 1995. The song reached the top five in both the United States and Canada.
Clark was an immediate success upon the release of her debut album in the summer of 1995. The album featured “Better Things To Do”, “When Boy Meets Girl”, “If I were You” and “Suddenly Single”. Terri supported the album with a tour opening for George Strait.
As a result, “If I Were You” became Clark’s first No. 1 hit in Canada in June 1996. The album was certified Gold by the RIAA in the United States on April 5, 1996 and Platinum on July 29, 1997.
In the fall of 1996, Clark’s second album “Just The Same” was released, following the album’s first single, “Poor Poor Pitiful Me,” a cover of the 1976 Warren Zevon song. The single as well as the second single from the album “Emotional Girl,” reached number one in Canada with both songs reaching the top ten in the United States.
Clark earned a nomination, for The Country Music Association’s Horizon Award, as well as the Academy of Country Music Awards Best New Female Vocalist, in the late summer of 1996. During late 1996, Clark earned the award, Single of the Year for “Better Things To Do” including Album of The Year for Terri Clark by the Canadian Country Music Association. She was also named. The Top New Female Artist of The Year by Billboard magazine.
1998 – 2001 Singing What She Knows And Feels
Clark’s third album, “How I Feel,” was released in May 1998. The lead single from that album, “Now That I found You,” reached the top five in both Canada and the United States. The album’s second single, “You’re Easy On The Eyes,” reached number one in Canada as well as the United States. The song also became a minor Top 40 hit, peaking at No. 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. To promote her new album, Terri became the opening act for Reba McIntyre as well as Brooks and Dunn on their 1998 tour.
The release of “Fearless” the fourth studio album in September of 2000, delivered songs with more of an acoustic feel than that of her previous work. The album’s first single “A Little Gasoline”, was a late addition to the album. Mercury executives, of her label felt Clark needed to balance her new material with something that had a more familiar feel to it. Consequently, the song reached the top 10 in Canada. But only placed No 13 in the United States.
In March 1998, Clark visited Calgary, Alberta, Canada to film her first television special, Terri Clark Coming Home. The show premiered March 27, 1998 on CBC in Canada. During the special, Clark was visited by Canadian Country singers, Paul Brandt and George Fox. (Wikipedia)
2002 – 2004 – Grand Ole Opry Induction and A Playboy Magazine Offer
“Pain To Kill” was Clark’s fifth album. The album was released in January 2003, following the release of the album’s first single “I Just Wanna Be Mad”. Sara Evans passed on the song, originally written for her, by Kelley Lovelace and Lee Thomas Miller. Once released as a single, the song became Clark’s highest charting single in the United States. The song charted No 27 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
” I think of all the young girls who come to my shows. I think of those faces, I think of my mother, and I worry about the signal (sex) sends to them…”
“If I’m sexy enough for Playboy to want me with my clothes on. Then I hope, the message can be, that sexy is about, what’s between your ears, in your heart and your smile.”
Clark who came in second behind Canadian Country singer Shania Twain in a previous year poll, turned down an offer in early 2004 by Playboy magazine to pose, clothed for the cover of the magazine’s upcoming May issue.
During an appearance at the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday, May 15, 2004. Steve Warner told Clark how much the Opry loved surprises and that he had one for her. Warner extended the surprise invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry family as her mother, Linda Clark, walked on stage holding a sign that read “Grand Ole Opry, June 12.”
” This is the epitome of everything I have existed for in this business and dreamed about as a kid”.
Canadian country music star Terri Clark became a Grand Ole
Opry Member in 2004 and is known for her hits like “Girls Lie
Too,” and more. Picture: Grand Ole Opry
Greatest Hits Album 1994-2004
The future Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee and the new Grand Ole Opry inductee, introduced her first greatest hits album. “Greatest hits 1994-2004”. The album’s only single. “Girls Lie Too”, became Clark’s first number one hit in the United States since 1998’s, “You’re Easy On The Eyes”. The song did not reach number one in Canada. It hit number one country song of 2004 in Canada by Radio & Records.
A non-album single, “The World Needs a Drink” (co-written by a then-unknown Eric Church), released in 2004, but was not included on any of Clark’s studio albums.
Musical Roots of Country Continue 2005-2010
November 2005, Clark’s new album “Life Goes On” hits the airwaves. All things considered. This would be the last album, Terri would produce with Mercury Records.
June 2006, Clark signed with BNA Records, a division of Sony BMG Label Group. “Dirty Girl”, the first single for the label hit the stands in 2007. Following was “In My Next Life” the title track to the debut BNA release.
Clark’s tour of Canada with Emerson Drive opening for Big and Rich hoping to promote her new album. “My Next Life” was delayed several times. Consequently, the album remained unreleased. She parted ways with BNA in November 2008, in order to concentrate on her career in Canada and possibly launch her own record label. (Wikipedia)
Clark released a live album, “Terri Clark Live: Road Rage”, on her own BareTrack Records label in July 2009 through digital retailers. Clark’s seventh unreleased album through BNA, “The Long Way Home“, shipped to all retailers in Canada and to all digital retailers in the United States on September 1, 2009, distributed by BareTrack/Capitol Nashville/EMI Canada. The album’s release to non-digital retailers in the United States, took place on October 20, 2009.
The Albums Keep On Flowing Through Perseverance and Determination 2011-2013
Clark’s eighth album “Roots and Wings” hit the market on July 26, 2011. The album includes “Smile”, a song she wrote for her mom after her death, due to a long battle with cancer. The album’s lead single, “Northern Girl,” released on April 18, 2011. There is no question that Terri Clark, will be headed for the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
The ninth album released on November 13, 2012, in Canada. The album includes classic country standards. “Love Is A Rose,” is the album’s lead single. Not only does the album duets include Jann Arden, Dierks Bentley, Tanya Tucker, but also Dean Brody as well as Reba McIntire.
Clark took home the CCMA Female Artist of The Year Award in 2011. Terri built a fan base like no other and again took home the CCMA Fan’s Choice Award for 2013.
The Rewards and Vision of a Continuing Career
“Some Songs”. The production and release of Clark’s 10th took place on September 2, 2014. Her 11th album “Raising The Bar” was released on September 4, 2018.
Clark signed on to America’s Morning Show on Nash FM in 2013, as co host to Blair Garner and Chuck Wicks. She co hosted on America’s Morning Show for about a year, before she returned to her road roots.
“I didn’t realize how much I missed it until I started doing it again.”
Country Gold With Terri Clark
The internationally syndicated radio show “Country Gold with Terri Clark, airs on more than 145 stations across the United States as well as Canada. As of April 2016, Terri became the new hostess of the Saturday night classic country program, replacing Randy Owen. Terri earned a 2017 CMA nomination for Broadcaster Personality of The Year as well as a 2018 ACM award for National Broadcast Personality of the year.
Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame Induction
“It is such an honour to be inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. Being celebrated as one of Canada’s most influential country musicians is a recognition I do not take lightly, and one I will forever be proud of. I am deeply grateful to everyone, who has been on this journey with me, especially my fans who I had the opportunity to celebrate with today.”
Terri performed at the Merritt Mountain Music Festival in 2003. Displaying the talent, that would make her the International, Canadian Super Star she is today. She controls the stage in an international fashion, as well as providing her audience with a magical show in True Country Style. She performed the same caliber, and beyond in 2014 at the Rockin River Fest in Mission, BC.
During a 2014 interview by Shawn Conner of the Vancouver Sun, he asked. “Do you miss the bad ol’ days of the Merritt Mountain Music Festival? Terri replied:
“You know what, Merritt, BC is beautiful. Any festival there, whatever you want to call it, is going to be a party. We have the best crowds out west, they like to break loose and have a good time.”
Clark’s Merritt Mountain Music performances including her support of Canadian Country Music, lead to a mural on the wall of the BC Country Murals, included in The Merritt BC downtown Mural Walk. Terri Clark’s mural painted by Michelle Loughery in 2009, is displayed in Spirit Square, on the corner of Granite Avenue and Voght Street.
Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame Merritt Attractions – Take The Walk
To begin with, start your downtown mural tour at Merritt’s National Attraction. The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, Situated on Quilchena Avenue in The Country Music Capital of Canada.
“The murals are impressive, I recognized the singers right away. What a clever way to make a small city interesting and fun.” (Betty W Missoula, Montana)
The Merritt Mural Project was created in 2005. The Merritt BC Murals were part of a successful program called, the “Merritt Youth Mural Project”. A project designed for working with local young artists and “ youth at risk”. Merritt Murals were painted by muralist Michelle Loughery.
Walk of Stars Handprints
In addition, while on your mural tour, visit the many handprints of country artists situated throughout the town.
Hundred’s of International Country Music Artists have performed at the annual Merritt Mountain Music Festival. As a result, those stars left their mark permanently, by placing their handprints (or, in one case, footprints) and signatures in concrete stars. As a result, in 2003, those stars became the basis for the Merritt Walk of Stars. In addition, by 2005 more than 100 bronzed stars, created from the concrete impressions, were displayed throughout the community. (Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame)
Above all, the handprints will continue to grow with the Rockin River Music Fest, and add to the existing legacy of the Stars that have visited and performed in Merritt, BC.
Discover and experience the natural beauty and attractions in Merritt and the Nicola Valley!
Terri Clark is very much active at the writing of this blog. Follow her on:
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/terry-clark-mural3.jpg7841400Melvina Whitehttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngMelvina White2019-07-08 16:13:232021-05-03 17:01:40Country Music Hall of Fame Artist – Terri Clark
“Don Messer left a celebrated legacy. He was one of the first Canadian artists to be a recording, radio and TV star, as well as, play live concerts all at the same time. “
Don Messer
Merritt BC attractions, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and the Merritt Murals, both feature Country Music Legend Don Messer. The country music venue and murals are located in the community of Merritt BC Canada in the Nicola Valley. The community is also the “Country Music Capital of Canada”.
Don was a Canadian band leader, a radio broadcaster, and a defining icon of folk music in the 1960″s.
Born in 1909 in Tweedside, New Brunswick, Don was the youngest of 11 children. It all started at the age of five, while learning fiddle tunes with Irish and Scottish influences. Consequently, by the age of seven he was playing fiddle for square dances on a regular basis fine tuning his craft.
Destined To Be A Merritt BC Attraction
By the time Don was a teenager, he had amassed a collection of hundreds of reels, and jigs, including breakdowns and other pieces for his fiddle. Moreover he was playing endless square dances, and country dances as well as weddings and other parties. At the age of 16 he moved to Boston, Massachusetts where he received formal music lessons, where he learned to read and write music. In short Don Messer created a fiddle style to operate within a band context. As He put it,
“I play the melody and let the accompaniment fill in the details”
Merritt BC Attractions and Legends Must Start Somewhere
Messer began his career with radio. In 1929 at the age of 20, he moved to Saint John, New Brunswick where he joined CFBO radio station. As a result Don became a bandleader recruiting musicians to play on the radio in Saint John. Early recruits Charlie Chamberlain, Duke Nielsen, and Ned Landry formed the New Brunswick Lumberjacks. These band members stayed with Don for the next 39 years.
Messer led a smaller group, the “Backwoods Breakdown” which made up of Charlie Chamberlain, Julius ‘Duke’ Nielsen and Don Messer, himself. He used this group, for personal appearances throughout the Maritimes and Northeastern USA.
“There’s something about my music that seems to upset the emotions.”
Setting The Stage
Messer, one of the Merritt BC Mural Attractions was hired by CFCY Charlottetown in 1939 as their Music Director. It was here he formed the band “The Islanders” and became “Don Messer and The Islanders”. CBC picked up Don Messer and the Islanders show. By 1944 it was airing three times a week.
Formed around 2 of the original members, Charlie Chamberlain and Duke Nielsen, the show established itself as the most popular on Canadian Radio and would continue for almost 20 years. The singer Marg Osburne joined the band in 1947 and became (with Messer and Chamberlain) the artist most identified with the Islanders.
Because of the huge success of the radio show. Messer and the Islanders began to appear outside the Maritimes. Their first tour was in Ontario in 1949. They made 18 tours by 1969, including a centennial trip in 1967 that lasted 3 months and covered 61 centers.
This Fiddler Of Canada
His credits include combining many different Canadian fiddle traditions. As a result, he played a relatively straight, and unadorned melody line, with great precision and assurance with little ornamentation, rhythmic nuance, or expressiveness. His style influenced others, as it was clean, straight and neat. Marked by its down to earth simplicity.
Don Messer’s Television Era
In 1956 Don Messer and The Islanders began to appear regularly on CHBY-TV, Halifax. Soon followed by “The Don Messer Show’ in August 7, 1959 and continued as the “Don Messer’s Jubilee”.
Fiddler Night In Canada
The show was super popular and won over a wide audience. It was so popular it won top spot in the ratings two years in a row, beating out “Hockey night in Canada” and “The Ed Sullivan Show”. Over the next nine years it reportedly was the second most watched show in Canada next to “Hockey Night In Canada.”
A Show For Canadians To Meet
As has been noted, the show was notable because it had a regular guest performer time slot. Giving rise to many Canadian folk singers through national exposure, including Stompin’ Tom Connors, Catherine McKinnon, and fiddler Graham Townsend. There were many others including a young 10 year old fiddler named Jim Elliot.
Don Messer never took anything for granted. He had already suffered the vagaries of CBC management for 20 years in radio. CBC offered no long term security. But it did provide a platform for him to share his music with the nation.
Coming To An Abrupt End
Don was handed a telegram on April 14, 1969, saying that the Don Messer’s Jubilee was cancelled. Don was very upset, the fans were revolting. CBC received hundreds of phone calls, as well as, thousands of letters. The cancellation of the show generated many complaints including former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, who was a fan of the show. The fans organized a demonstration on Parliament Hill, even raising questions in The House of Commons. Consequently, a syndicated version of “Don Messer’s Jubilee “originated from CHCH-TV, in Hamilton Ontario in 1969, and ran until Don Messer’s death in March of 1973.
Legacy of Don Messer on the wall of Merritt BC Mural Attractions
Don Messer left a celebrated legacy. He was one of the first Canadian artists to be a recording, radio and TV star, as well as, play live concerts all at the same time.
Messer was inducted in into the Canadian Country Music Association Hall of Honor in 1985 and, with Chamberlain and Osburne, into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 1989.
“My music is not Western or Cowboy music. Our tunes have been around for two or three hundred years. They’re folk tunes passed from generation to generation.”
Visit Don Messer`s Mural in Merritt BC and downtown walking tour.
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/lumberjacks.jpg5501350Melvina Whitehttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngMelvina White2019-06-30 11:58:502020-11-11 22:02:12Merritt BC Attractions – Don Messer Country Music Legend
Lower Nicola has a Merritt BC grocery store called Courtesy Corner. The mini supermarket is a family owned business located just outside Merritt BC Canada on Hwy 8 towards Spencer’s Bridge. The Merritt BC grocery store offers a large selection of products that are priced comparably well with other big chain grocery stores.
But what everyone seems to want to talk about is how they are always treated with respect, and greeted with politeness by the proud owners of Courtesy Corner, Shamba Singh Bhown and wife Shreya Bhown.
Courtesy Corner Family Owned Grocery Store
Meet The Owners Shamba Singh Bhown With His Wife Shreya Bhown,
I had the opportunity to meet Shamba and his wife Shreya while making a quick stop to buy a lottery ticket on Saturday March 29, 2019. And to my surprise they were having a customer appreciation day. Best yet, there was a Lotto Max rep “Kyleen Horodyski” on site handing out free giveaways along with cake and balloons. Sweet! I was greeted by the owners with free Samosas.
Time To Merritt Blog
I took the opportunity to ask the Bhown’s if they have ever heard of Experience Nicola Valley Bloggers? My story telling side (my blogger within me) came out and explained to them what was happening online and within the Nicola Valley. They quickly agreed that it was a good idea for me to write a blog about their business!
Shamba Singh Bhown with his wife Shreya Bhown, along with their reno/store handyman Paul Jensen.
Experience Nicola Valley Interview
Type of Merritt BC business – Corner Store/ Supermarket.
(Q1) What made you come to Merritt BC Canada and purchase this particular business?
Shamba “I knew that we would do a lot better here. With its great location, beautiful area, friendly community. Right away we were welcomed by everyone.”
(Q2) How long have you been in this type of business?
Shamba “Many years, I have a lot of experience and through the years have been able to connect with reliable wholesalers along with brands I stand behind.”
(Q3) Can u give me an example?
Shamba “Organic Natural Drinks, along with Saunders Family Farm.”
(Q4) Are there advantages to owning a Merritt BC business here in the Nicola Valley?
Shamba “Many advantages. It is very community based, loyal customers, situated on a busy Highway that is well travelled by tourists, as well as, we have other small communities nearby that rely on having a grocery store nearby that supplies products at comparable prices along with a large selection.”
(Q5) What future plans do you have for your store?
Shamba “We will be putting in two gas pumps, as well as, start selling propane. Soon after we hope to obtain a permit so we are able to sell fishing & hunting licenses too.”
(Q6) Why do your customers keep coming back?
Shamba “We work hard to model our business to what people expect. Honesty, quality, selection, comparable prices, listening to what customers want.”
(Q7) Can you tell me an example of going above & beyond for your clientele?
Shamba “Last year we purchased the store in April, and within a couple of weeks the river flooded washing out the bridge.It made it almost impossible for many people to get into Merritt. After a few days our supplies were running out, so I drove to Kamloops to stock up on merchandise, making sure we could supply all the necessities for the community. Furthermore, I also drove to the lower mainland to purchase goods and stock up.”
Courtesy Corner had a winning ticket celebration March 29,2019. Representatives from Lotto Max were on location for free giveaways,
The Store With The “Winning Touch”
Amazingly not once but twice, Courtesy Corner has sold a winning lottery ticket to 3 of their frequent customers. Making them instant millionaires and “Living The Dream”. The last 25 million Lotto Max ticket was sold recently. It was a ticket sold by asking the customer if he wanted buy a ticket for that nights Lotto Max draw. Talk about upselling!
Products You Can Find At Courtesy Corner
Courtesy Corner Supermarket offers such a wide range of merchandise and household provisions that makes it a “one-stop-shopping” grocery store.
Courtesy Corner is well known in the region for having comparable prices, with a wide range of provisions. Everything from office staples to vehicle products.
Frozen goods. Ground beef from Lower Nicola’s butcher Keiper’s Ranch.
Beauty Products For Him & Her
Impressive selection of beauty products comparable to the larger box stores.
Products for men & women.
Great supply of hair products available.
Awesome Selection Of Ice Cream For Every Sweet Tooth For “Those Hot Summer Days”
World’s coldest Ice Cream! Try the Mini Melts!
Happy customer enjoying a tasty cone.
Hard to resist this Cotton Candy Ice Cream!
Fresh Produce Or Planting A Garden
vegetables and fruits are fresh and a great variety is available. Along with garden seeds they also have spice & seasoning.
Planting a Garden this year. Great selection of seeds.
Fresh produce available daily.
In case you forgot. Spices & Seasonings
Merritt BC Fishing And Hunting In The Nicola Valley
Unique items can be found at Courtesy Corner.
Hunting & fishing essentials.
Cabin Fever!
Vehicle Products
With its own section, vehicle owners will be pleased to see the selection of essentials needed for their ride.
Found at Courtesy Corner vehicle oil and wiper fluid.
Air Fresheners also!
Prepaid Cards Available & Rapid Chargers
A wide sort of prepaid cards available at Courtesy Corner.
Need a charge? Rapid charge available.
Testaments From Happy Customers
The customers I talked to couldn’t say enough positive things about the owners of this Merritt BC grocery store. They were telling me how impressed with the re-modeling of the inside, as well as, the selection of merchandise available. Most importantly how gracious and friendly the staff are.
Brad & Irene Bennet
“Love Lower Nicola Courtesy Supermarket! What they have done to it , staff are great, courteous and helpful. amazing selection of products!” Brad & Irene Bennet
In Conclusion
Nicola Courtesy Corner Supermarket. A family run business that offers a selection of merchandise/provisions that equal any big box store prices. I was amazed at the selection that was on display. Above all I dont live in Lower Nicola but I may find myself shopping here more. Experience The Nicola Valley.
“Awesome Store! We don’t live in the Lower Nicola, but we love this store” Dorothy & Helen Clarke.
Bus Stop
There is a bus stop located on Aberdeen Rd. in Lower Nicola Valley. The bus stop is only a few steps from the store.
There are public bathrooms. Video surveillance on site inside and outside.
Lower Nicola Courtesy Corner Friendly Staff
Courtesy Corner Contact List
Phone Number (250) 378-9457,
407 hwy 8 w
Lower Nicola, British Columbia
Outside Lower Nicola Area, Dial +1 2503789457.
Hours 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Mondays – Saturday
Sundays 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range $$ comparible to larger Supermarkets
407 hwy 8 w (4.92 mi)
“I feel very blessed to be working with such a great bunch of people”
There are so many things to consider if you are ranching in the Nicola Valley – branding day and calves is one of them.
Spring is here in Merritt BC Canada, the calves are born and now it’s time to get things ready to start branding caves on the ranch. You want to do this before you send them to range or before anyone can take them.
There is so much you need to get organized and ready for branding day. Not only do you have to have your ropers and ground people lined up but you also have to make sure all your equipment is in working order. You also need to make sure you have all the necessary supplies for the day.
On top of all that your crew will need to be fed and kept hydrated throughout the day.
Today I am going to take you through a day of ranching in the Nicola Valley – branding calves. This is not like a typical written blog but a story through photographs. I really hope you enjoy.
Start of the day
Once the crew all know there jobs, fed breakfast which on this day consisted of coffee, tea, water, juice, muffins, bacon and egg or ham and egg on English muffins.
Breakfast at the Ranch House
Cowboys mounting up and discussing life before the real work begins.
Breakfast done, now everyone is just getting ready to head out to gather the cows and calves.
Cowboys heading up to gather the cows and calves and bring them in for branding.
Ranching in the Nicola Valley – Branding Day, bringing the first herd in from the back fields.
Heading into the arena.
Look at all the fresh grass. Won’t be like that for long.
Cowboys getting ready to start roping the calves.
Here we go, first calf roped and getting hauled up to the branding station.
Once they have had their medications its time to brand. Gerry is checking to make sure the brand is on well enough. The smoke is from the hair burning.
Two sides going at once to make it a smoother operation and a little faster.
Corena branding one of her calves.
Sometimes things don’t go quite as planned so the ground crew tries to help out in catching the calf to re position the rope into the correct place. It’s all about team work.
Waiting for all parts of the branding to be completed before letting the calf go.
You can see here the calf was roped in the wrong spot.
So they wrestle the calf and re position the rope.
Which makes it easier and faster to give the medications and position for getting the ranches brand.
Gerry from 8 Mile Ranch putting his brand on.
First herd finished and heading back out to pasture. Lunch Break
Horses all lined up along the fence as the cowboys and crew stop for lunch.
Lunch Time
Another great meal consisting of fruit trays, vegetable trays, home made sausage rolls, sandwiches, muffins, all kids of little deserts and drinks.
Lunch all done, time to head out and gather the second herd.
Ranching in the Nicola Valley – Branding Day. This is the second herd coming in for branding.
As the second herd makes it’s way into the arena you can see it isn’t as grassy this time.
I have to say this is one of my favorite calves. I call it Panda. Just missing the white around the eyes.
Relaxing for a moment while waiting it’s turn.
Ranch dogs patiently waiting for their turn to do some work.
The hair is clipped away so you can see better where you are putting the brand.
The Bosses 🙂 Gerry 8 Mile Ranch and Corena Calton Cattle Co.
Kids also love having some fun on branding day.
Colin bringing up another calf. Way to go Colin.
Nothing quite like seeing a father and son bonding.
Calves are just so darn cute.
The Boss Gerry doing his part in roping a calf. These horses are just as hard working as the cowboys and people on the ground. It is really quite something to watch how it all comes together.
Corena’s pretty brand on one of her calves. Nice job
Sometimes a little wrestling is in order hahaha, hold her down.
UT watching on, waiting to go out and work.
Gerry jumping off his horse to fix the rope on a calf.
Catch it…
And re position the rope. Great team work by all.
Team wrestling is a fact of life when branding. Flipping a calf that just didn’t want to go down.
Hold on… We are almost done!
Oh another one where the rope needs to be re positioned.
Way to go, get them all finished up.
Group two heading back out to pasture
There’s that little panda again. So darn cute.
Second group back into the pasture, now to go and get the third and final group.
Final Group to be Branded
Ranching in the Nicola Valley – Branding day. Here comes the last small group of calves that need to be branded. Yes, that is a dairy cow that you see. She is a surrogate mother. Any orphan calves that the ranch gets will be introduced to the Dairy cow. She takes them on as her own. It’s quite amazing to watch.
There always seems to be one that ends up almost like a pet
This little one is no exception. Corena has to go and give it a little pet.
Then she talks to it before branding. So cute. So much care and consideration goes into everything that this ranch does. I feel blessed to be a part of what they do.
And sometimes you think you have it.
You try really hard
And still….
The calf wins and gets away….lol
There is even a dummy steer and rope for those who would like to try their luck.
Kids seem to love it
Although it’s more fun to rope your brother and drag him around.
Okay, I will let you go hahaha.
Supper Time
Now that all the calves have been branded. It’s time to relax, tell stories and prepare for the amazing supper.
All in all a day ranching in the Nicola Valley – Branding Day is a day of not only full of hard work. It is also fun in seeing old friends, new ones and enjoying all the day had to offer.
The start of the amazing Mexican dinner being prepared for supper by Patrick.
Adding peppers, oh my it’s looking so good.
For more great blogs about Merritt and the Nicola Valley head over to Experience Nicola Valley web page. Corena owner of Calton Cattle Co is also at Creative Company in downtown Merritt with lots of wonderful western decor.
Photo Credit Calton Cattle Co. at Creative Company
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/IMGP1954-FILEminimizer.jpg7681147Michelle Baconhttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngMichelle Bacon2019-06-17 09:28:072020-03-11 23:00:58Ranching in the Nicola Valley – Branding Day
“In all my travels criss-crossing Canada I can safely say that Christine and Joe are the most fun and entertaining laundromat hosts I have had the privilege of meeting.”
Not all laundromats are created equal and the Merritt BC laundromat I visited today not only cleaned my clothes but also welcomed me to Merritt BC Canada with history, stories and life lessons. I have had a busy, busy past 10 days, living in and out of wearing shorts, jeans and dress pants. As a result my dirty clothes pile was getting out of hand, taking over the corner of my sleeping quarters. Drastic measures needed to be implemented. I was running low on the essentials like socks, pants and you know what. What to do?
Searching For A Merritt BC Laundromat
The dirty clothes pile was taking on a life of its own and 1 washer and dryer was just not going to cut it. It would take me days to get through it all. The situation called for drastic measures and the help of laundry experts! Therefore I was left with little options. I packed up my clothes and went to a Merritt BC laundromat.
The Coolest Country Music Laundromat Ever
Today I had the pleasure of meeting Christine Taylor and Joe Astleford – the owners of the coolest country music laundromat I have ever washed and dried in. It was refreshing, as friendliness sometimes is lacking when washing clothes. However, not at this laundromat. For over 30 years this couple has serviced locals and visitors alike when they have been in need of clean clothes. On this day it was my turn.
“Christine and Joe are real fun characters of the “good people” kind,” Greg Girard
Christine and Joe
Washers and Dryers
The Merritt BC laundromat is rumored to be the 3rd largest in British Columbia, Canada. I have no idea, but from my experience it is one of the largest I have been in during my travels across Canada. There are many washers for all sizes of loads and an equally abundant number of dryers. And… they all work! That is a rarity in laundromats, right. Also, in the back of the building, there is a service counter where people can arrange for laundry pick-up and dry cleaning services.
Merritt BC Laundromat Washers & Dryers
Merritt Attraction and Laundry
What makes this laundromat a Merritt attraction is the massive collection of country music paraphernalia. On every wall there are portraits of Canadian and international country music artists. Many of them signed by the artist themselves. If you look closely, some of the portraits have a gold star. The gold stars indicate that the country music personality has played in Merritt BC Canada at one time or another. There is said to be over 280+ portraits. You got to check out this Merritt hidden attraction. It is almost worth it to have dirty clothes when visiting and exploring in the Nicola Valley.
Country Music Artist Portraits
Country Music List for Rockin’ River Musicfest
The List – Country Music Artists
For the true country music fan there are is a list, posted in the back, of all the country music stars who have played in the Nicola Valley at the Merritt Country Music Festival and the Rockin River Music Festival. It is an impressive list. And for all of you who have grown a liking to Merritt BC Canada make sure to pick up one of the Merritt t-shirts or hats sold on site.
Meet Christine and Joe
But it is not the clean facility, the country music artists nor the amount of washers and dryers that made an impression on me during this laundry day. No, it was the conversations I had with Christine and Joe that made my day whiz on by. I appreciated that they took the time to chat with me about Merritt, its history, and why they love it here – on most days. They are only human by the way.
Encyclopedia Christine
Christine was my first conversation with the Merritt BC laundromat. She was a joy to talk to right off the bat. What a pleasant and nice women. She joked that I got her on a good day. It did not take me long to like this lady and to figure out that this women is a staunch supporter of Downtown Merritt. The conversations we had took many lefts and rights covering many topics covering a 30 year community timeline. She kept my attention so much so that when it came to putting more change in the dryer there was a substantial delay on my part.
Joe The Mechanic
Then there was Joe. A great compliment to Christine. I learned that Joe has a deep passion for family, cars, motorcycles and travel. I was fortunate enough that Joe decided to share with me his many photos of his classic car collection, and motorcycle travels. Then came the stories of where and how Joe and Christine did some road tripping throughout North America. That was when my karma peaked. The mention of road tripping is my trigger. I will talk all day with people who enjoy the art of road tripping. I ate it all up. In closing Joe shared a another photo of one of his creative moments – the time Joe built an “elevator” high-riding bicycle. That is my name for it. Have to visit and ask Joe if you want the official name.
Pride Of Ownership In The Nicola Valley
Christine and Joe are a great example of small town pride and “pride of ownership” of a local business. Their customer interaction skills are top notch. As I walked out the door, I joked with them both,
“I am going to dirty this laundry really fast so I can come back soon.”
As I walked to my jeep I said to myself, “Did I really say that? I want to do laundry soon?” In hindsight that is probably the best type of compliment one could give to a laundromat. That says everything you need to know about Christine and Joe’s Merritt BC laundromat.
“Many say to this day, including this youth blogger, that the country music duo are one of the most successful contemporary country musicians to date.”
As we all know, especially those of us who are growing up in Merritt, we live in the Country Music Capital of Canada. Therefore, as part of to celebrating country music, there are 20 or so murals, the “Walk of Stars” (75+ handprints and 1 footprint) and the Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame located in Merritt, BC, Canada.
You can see the Merritt country music attractions when walking around downtown while sightseeing and shopping. The country music stars, Brooks and Dunn, are one of the artists you can see on the side of buildings located throughout our downtown. Here I am at their mural on the side of the Work BC building.
Jordyn Lee (Youth Blogger – Experience Nicola Valley) /Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery
Brooks and Dunn in Merritt BC
Brooks and Dunn first played in Merritt, BC, Canada in 2004 for the Merritt Mountain Music Festival. Like Brooks and Dunn, there have been many country music artists who have come through Merritt and have left their mark with a mural painted on the walls of our town. The Country Music Hall of Fame is in the middle of it all. The popular attraction is another must-see when you are visiting the Merritt BC murals.
“I don’t have any hobbies. Music is my hobby” – Ronnie Dunn
Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn
If you listen to country music, you know Brooks and Dunn. Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn began their country music career together in 1990. In the 1980s, before they formed a duo, Kix and Ronnie recorded two solo singles each. Ronnie Brooks also released an album for Capitol Records in 1989 and, at the time, was also writing songs for other musicians.
The duo wrote 50 singles, which 20 hit #1 on the Hot Country Songs Charts and 19 made it into the Top 10. Brooks and Dunn have won 2 Grammys, dozens of ACM’ and CMA awards. Because of some of their hit songs like “My Maria” “Believe”, “Only in America” and “Ain’t Nothing ’bout You” they have sold over 30 million albums.
Impact on Country Music
One of their biggest hits, “Boot Scootin’ Boogie”, is credited to bring back to life line dancing in country bars across North America. The country music due worked with many other artists including the likes of Reba McEntire, Sheryl Crow, Billy Gibbons, Vince Gill, Mac Powell, and Jerry Jeff Walker among others.
All Things Come To An End
In August 2009 Brooks and Dunn retired from country music. According to Brooks, the split was on good terms. During an interview Brooks told CMT that he and Dunn are “still good friends”, while Dunn said that,
“We’ve ended up more like brothers.”
Their final live performance was in September, 2010, in Nashville, Tennessee. Both musicians moved forward and dedicated their time to solo careers. In 2015 the duo reunited for some Las Vega shows performing alongside Reba McEntire. In 2019, Brooks and Dunn were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Kix Brooks
Born May 12th, 1955 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He learned country music through his neighbour, Johnny Horton. Soon later he began preforming with his neighbour’s daughter. Growing up in high school Kix played in clubs and wrote songs on the side.
When he got older, he worked on an oil pipeline, then moved to Maine and got a job at a song writing company. His attempt at songwriting started and ended with “Baby, When your heart breaks down”. However, because it barely made the charts in 1983, he returned to songwriting. It was then he met Ronnie Dunn and their whole world of country music changed for the better.
Ronnie Dunn
Born on June 1st, 1953 in Coleman, Texas and was raised in Tulsa Oklahoma. He originally went to school to become a Baptist Minister but was asked to leave because he was performing country music at local bars around his hometown.
After Ronnie was kicked out of college, he went on to write many songs, but none of them hit the big time. It was when Brooks and Dunn teamed up and released “Brand New Man”that both of their careers took off. Many say to this day, including this youth blogger, that the country music duo are one of the most successful contemporary country musicians to date.
“The music has to drive you. That’s just it. You follow it. You follow the songs” – Ronnie Dunn
The Brooks and Dunn mural is located at 2099 Quilchena Avenue on the side of the Work BC building in Downtown Merritt in the Nicola Valley.
The Merritt Mural Project was created in 2005. The Merritt BC Murals were part of a successful program called, the “Merritt Youth Mural Project”. A project designed for working with local young artists and “ youth at risk”. Merritt Murals were painted by muralist Michelle Loughery.
In conclusion, you can learn more about Brooks and Dunn on their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter pages, s well as, their website.
Merritt BC Canada Downtown Mural Digital Walking Tour
https://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/brooks-dunnt-banner4.jpg7521500Jordyn Leehttps://experiencenicolavalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/merrit-nicola-logo-01-300x254.pngJordyn Lee2019-06-12 08:14:442020-11-11 22:02:11Brooks and Dunn – Country Music Artist
