March 2010 Volume 16 Issue 2

News and Views

The community newsletter, entirely written and produced in the Merkinch

Bike Shed kicks off with workshops for all ages

RIGHT… Eden Court outreach worker Manda (standing left) and Katyana, the theatre’s Arts Education manager, ran the monthly children’s workshop in theatre arts and crafts, the first to be held at the newly opened community arts centre at the Bike Shed in Grant Street.

BELOW… The adults’ weekly art class which is tutored by Liberty Bligh.

More pictures, a report and the March timetable on page 5.

Inside Calling all School’s Latest from allotment charity Merkinch this fans fashion show Partnership

month: – page 2 – page 4 – page 5 – page 13

2 News & Views Merkinch training programme Helpline now extends into AGE Concern – 0800 731 4931. MERKINCH Enterprise has been providing Accreditation is provided through a close ALCOHOL, Council on – 34 Information Technology (IT) training for the working relationship with Inverness College Tomnahurich St, tel 220995. unemployed living in the Merkinch area since and candidates can achieve two credits at CHILDLINE – 0800 1111. Free back in 1994. This has been an ongoing Higher National level during the training confidential advice 24 hours a day. project and in 2005 was extended to include period which lasts for about 10 weeks. Citizens Advice Bureau – Advice line, 08 those living outwith the Merkinch The European Driving Licence can 444 994111; Appointments, 01463 237664 area. Both training programmes also be accessed within the centre at COMMUNITY CENTRE – 239563. have continued successfully over Grant St. the long life of the project with The Enterprise project has been so COMMUNITY HOUSE, Craigton trainees coming from as far afield as successful over the years that Avenue – 718848. Aviemore and Dingwall. Councillor Peter Corbett asked if we Your local COUNCILLORS – The training programme is could extend this facility and provide Janet Campbell 226598; financed through the European a similar service to the unemployed Social Fund (ESF) with matching finance residents of the Dalneigh area and this Peter Corbett 238159; having come from a variety of sources over commenced recently, at the James Cameron Donnie Kerr 225217; the years. Firstly and for many years it was Community Centre on the 18 January, initially Bet McAllister 710558. supported by the Local Enterprise Company as a pilot project to gauge the level of CRIMEBUSTERS – 0800 555111. who subsequently handed over to Skills requirement by the community. Development although unfortunately This service is financially supported by CROSSROADS Care Attendant Scheme this finishes in March. Merkinch Enterprise through their own ESF – 2 Queensgate Arcade, tel 242112. The Council came on board later project with the additional matching finance in DENTIST, Emergency – 0845 644 2271. with sources through the Social Inclusion this instance being provided through FSF and DOG Warden – 703134. Partnership (SIPs) followed by the Community the Central Ward Budget. Regeneration Fund (CRF) and currently the Said Colin Downie, Chief Executive of DRUGLINE Scotland – tel 0800 776600. Fairer Scotland Fund (FSF). Merkinch Enterprise, “To date all places are Free advice on drugs 24 hours a day. Finally as each year passes, the varying full with a waiting list for the future. It HOUSING Problems – 703800. shortfall is always met through the resources therefore seems that the requirement for HOUSING Repairs (including out-of- of the Enterprise, thus fulfilling the continuation is there, leaving only the hours) – 232675. OOH emergency 0845 requirements for the continuation of this matching finance to be sourced to continue 700 2005. excellent training programme for the this project in Dalneigh. A further outreach MERKINCH ENTERPRISE – 240085. unemployed. facility also being considered at Hilton, to The classroom-based, tutor-led training provide the same facility throughout Inverness mp33 – 717639. sessions cover the normal Microsoft Products for all.” NEW START – 715615 or 728770. that are in general use by most employers, Said Cllr Corbett, “It’s great to see some of NEWS & VIEWS – 240085, 221027. such as Word Processing, Spreadsheets and the good work being done in Merkinch Database systems and the training programme extending into other areas and I hope it’s the MERKINCH PARTNERSHIP Officer – allows each individual to train to their own first of many that we have been able to set up 718989. level as they require and importantly at their through the expertise of the Merkinch PRIMARY School, Merkinch – 232962. own pace. Partnership.” REFUSE, extra and bulky collection – Ring 230634.

ROAD to RECOVERY – Ian Polworth, Do you have Madras Street Mission, 715809. a story for Madras Street Hall SAMARITANS – 66 Tomnahurich St, tel us? An welcomes you to the Merkinch! 713456 or 0345 909090 (local rate). We are the local Free Church of Scotland in this SMOKELINE – 0800 84 84 84. achievement community and have been working in the area for SOCIAL WORK Dept , Emergency – to tell us 0845 769 7284. about? over 100 years. Come and visit us at any of the TRADING Standards – 0845 600 4222. Do you want following meetings which take place regularly in the Madras Street Hall. VICTIM Support – tel 258834. to have your WEBSITE, Merkinch Community — say about Sunday Services 5pm www.merkinch.info local issues? Sunday School 5pm (ages 4-12) Inverness WOMEN’S Aid – Confidential (Children meet during Sunday Service) support for abused women, tel 220719. Contact WORKING For Families – Drew on Bible Discussion Group 01463 728759 News & ‘Road to Recovery’ Meeting Views at (support work for alcoholics & drug addicts)

Got a contact you think we Merkinch For meeting times or other inquires please contact: should include? Contact Enterprise Rev John Wagner on (01463) 223199

News & Views on 240085 on 240085 Jesus said: ‘I am the Way and the Truth and the Life.’ March 2010 3

Bottles and buses, ice and salt, fly-tipping and the sea wall, donations and disturbances

BROKEN bottles are a big issue, were held to work out priorities -picking to tidy the area up. environmental issues, and that Central Ward manager Jimmy and Highland Council staff There was also a noticeable they would look at the footpath Flint agreed at Merkinch couldn’t do more, some working problem with dog-fouling, and out to Carnarc Point. Community Council’s February 100 hours a week. unkempt gardens were a major „ Anne McCreadie of meeting. Regarding the state of issue in , she Merkinch Community Centre said “If broken bottles are reported pavements he said that the ice was reported. that they were expecting work to to TEC services they will clean so hard and thick in „ Members were begin soon on new automatic

them up within two hours,” Mr places that nothing Merkinch concerned that doors, toilets with disabled Flint said. could be done with it. Community following the access, and a media suite. The He assured members that Ali Locke suspension of the work was likely to take seven to Council Highland Council and the police commented that when licence for Rodgers’ eight weeks, but she did not know are working together on the the ground temperature shop on Grant Street, how much disruption it would problem and told them a new bye- was under minus nine degrees, the licence had simply been put in cause. law would mean that anyone salt was no use. the name of another member of „ Dawn Beaton and her caught under-age drinking or with With regard to gritting bins, Mr the family. husband Jim, stalwarts of a bottle in breach of the peace Flint said the matter was being „ The question of who should Glendoe Terrace, have moved could find their bottle being raised with Richard Evans, the take responsibility for the to Hilton, though Mrs Beaton emptied down the drain. new head of TEC services. maintenance of the sea wall was has agreed to continue working „ The problems being „ It is reckoned that the a continuing issue. Ali Locke of with the Glendoe tenants while encountered with bus services statistics given recently Greenspace said that there was their houses are being all across the city were being suggesting that fly-tipping was a certain amount of buck- refurbished. addressed by Highland Council. decreasing were wrong. Mr passing going on. „ James Ross was confirmed Mr Flint said that very senior Flint told members that there Vital repairs were done to the as a full community council staff from Stagecoach were was more fly-tipping than ever sea wall a couple of years ago, member, now that he had reached coming to speak to the Council before. And in her report, but Highland Council say they the age of 18. and councillors were likely to Community Warden Claire are not responsible for the „ Members agreed to make a give them a hard time. Richardson said she had structure. donation of £300 towards the Stagecoach have leased reported 12 instances; hotspots “It’s not needing a big repair Bike Shed and £200 to the Farraline Park from the were Nelson Street and Gilbert at the moment, but if Street Pastors. Council, he added. Street. While there was less Greenspace were to do any „ South Kessock Residents „ On the issue of the state of dumping of rubbish on repairs the council will say it is Association are planning an the roads this winter, Mr Flint pavements, there were still our ongoing responsibility,” he Easter event, though the date was said that more salt was being issues with furniture being left said, adding that he just wanted still to be confirmed. (See p10). delivered, but the Council used in gardens. the matter flagged up. „ The next meeting will be 3000 tons of salt a week through Litter was also a problem and He said they were always held in the Community Centre the bad weather. Daily meetings estate operatives had been litter keen to hear of any on Thursday 11 March at

Take heart as you spring into March! Great items at Nicols-and low prices we charge!

„ Cloth strip floor mop and handle only £1.29: Mop buckets only £2.99. „ Really smart printed hooded tops — teenage and adult sizes £15.99- £17.99. „ Lovely NEW design net curtaining (Roma) from only £1.99 a metre. „ eye-catching metallic foil business cards from only £19..50 per 100. „ Nice selection of alarm clocks from only £1.99 each

Nicol’s Killer Prices, 57 Grant St, Inverness IV3 8BP, Tel 01463 231596.

Start your own business in 2010: part-time or full-time with unlimited income potential. Stem cells are never far from the news these days. StemEnhanceTM , the world’s first patented stem cell enhancer, increases the body’s stem cells by 25% daily. Adult stem cells are master cells which support the repair system of the body.

Full details at www.afix4wealth.com and/or www.afix4health.com

4 News & Views

Briefs… OUT OF SCHOOL

THOUGH the Janny’s Hoose can no longer offer the same range of services to „ THE first week in February was Money „ INVERNESS High School raised £4861.63 the community, many people do not Week and all the pupils at Merkinch Primary with their sponsored walk. A tenth went to the realise that the building is still used on a School took part. Primary 1 ran the tuck shop Shelterbox, the rest to be spent directly on daily basis. Besides Smoking Cessation while P2 set up a post office and internal funding activities for the pupils. sessions on Wednesdays, the Health school delivery service. „ CONGRATULATIONS to IHS’s Home Visitor’s clinic for mums and babes on P3 ran a travel agency and learned how to Economics Department for winning a prize Thursdays and the dental service on plan a trip, while P4 operated a funfair in the in the British Food Fortnight “Cook for Friday mornings, two part-time mental school hall on the Thursday for all the school Life” challenge, sponsored by Kenwood. health workers — Marie Holmes and to take part. P5 set up a school bank and P6 The prize comprised 18 hand-mixers, 31 Gill Hasson — are based in the Hoose. sold soap for Valentine’s Day. This project aprons and 30 tea towels. Their remit includes working with was supported by Ness Soaps. „ THE S2 Parents’ Evening is on Wednesday children and young people and training a Finally, P7 created mobile phone companies 10th March. range of teachers, social workers and and competed for success in a “Dragon’s Den” „ IHS would like to encourage more carers. situation. parents to offer their email address for „ SCHOOLS break for the Easter holidays inclusion on their database. This way the CONGRATULATIONS to the textile at 3pm on Friday 26 March and return 9am school can send communications without fashion company of Anna Macneil. on Monday 12 April. using paper and help save the planet! The Abban Street- based Fashion first for children’s company run by Ruth cancer charity Black is celebrat- AN exciting venture into the world of fashion commented, ing its is being undertaken by Merkinch Primary “This is a first 25th year th School on Thursday 18 March when pupils for CLIC by from Primary 6 are staging a fashion show at Sargent in winning the Community Centre to raise funds for CLIC Inverness and an award Sargent, the children’s cancer charity. I am really at the The pupils will be modelling clothes from looking Glasgow Tesco, M & Co and Matalan on the impressive forward to the Trade catwalk and there will be an array of evening which Fair last month for a new scarf design. entertainment from the P5-P7 dance club I think will At the show they also launched a new including a sword dance and Highland give our tweed hat lined with polar fleece Dancers. There will be a raffle and light guests a great which sold very well. refreshments will be available. night out at a SHIELEEN Bremner, a learning support Peter Logie, CLIC Sargent’s fundraiser for perfect venue assistant at Merkinch Primary, got two the Highlands & Islands and Moray for such an event.” weeks’ unpaid leave to go to India The children under the guidance of their working at an orphanage. Merkinch INVERNESS TRINITY teacher, Nicola Jackson, will be running the youngsters raised £800 to help fund the show from start to finish. CLIC Sargent is former nurse’s trip. CHURCH of SCOTLAND currently supporting families in Inverness and

the Highlands who have children this age with “We aim to be a welcoming fellowship, THE Friendship Club, which meets at cancer and it always seems a good fit when the Community Centre for lunch on proclaiming in worship the gospel of Jesus children raise money for theirs peers who are Wednesdays, has spaces for Merkinch Christ, ready to serve with compassion the having a tough time. residents over 60 years. Volunteers are needs of the community.” “So come along everybody, put the telly off also needed to help run the club. for the night and support your youngsters in Your Parish Church this project they’re very excited about,” say LUCKY winner of this month’s Nicol’s Rev Alistair Murray BD. the organisers. Killer Quiz is Kai Dylan, Carnarc The event starts at 7pm. Tickets cost £3 Crescent who collects a £10 voucher to Sunday Services 11am. (under 5s free) and can be purchased from the exchange at Nicol’s Killer Prices. (Sunday School & Crèche during the morning service) school. 6.30pm First Sunday in Month Girls’ Brigade meets Mondays This for the day 6.30pm issue’s Thought Boys’ Brigade meets Fridays 6pm red; it’s just that printing ll prayers are answe A er is “No!” Induction Loop System sometimes the answ and Anon All Welcome collating processes are (www.trinityinverness.org.uk) Inverness Trinity Church of Scotland funded courtesy of the is a registered Scottish Charity (SC015432) Merkinch Partnership. March 2010 5 Bike Shed arts centre welcomed

Brian Macleod, former Merkinch Development Officer and local artist Bette McArdle, cut the ribbon.

Pictured at the opening are, from left, Colin Downie of Merkinch Enterprise; Annie Marrs, Community Arts worker; Councillor Peter Corbett; and Anne Sutherland of Merkinch Partnership.

THE launch of the Bike Shed as a Cllr Corbett acknowledged that to some community arts centre took place on 28 people Merkinch would not readily be January. It was very well attended and an associated with the arts. “I would have enjoyable evening. thought that too at one time, but my mind Short speeches were made by Arts in has changed over the years,” he said. Merkinch’s Community Arts worker Annie Bette McArdle paid tribute to the hard Marrs; former Development Officer Brian work and vision of AiM’s two community Macleod and local artist Bette McArdle, the arts workers: Annie Marrs and Annie’s founder members who officially cut the predecessor Catherine MacNeil. ribbon; Councillor Peter Corbett, chair of To see the opening night video and get a the Merkinch Partnership who last year took flavour of the event, click on to the over running Arts in Merkinch from the following website: http://www.youtube. previous voluntary committee. com/watch?v=pSEB_y5HwwA

The Bike Shed Activity Programme for March 2010

6 News & Views MERKINCH ALLOTMENTS Tuesday 23 March at 7pm in Merkinch Community Centre

Merkinch Greenspace and Highland Council would like to invite you to come along to an open meeting to set up a Merkinch Allotments Society. The meeting will be facilitated by James Flint, Central Ward Manager, and Keith Walker, Highland Council Policy Officer.

Purpose and official new name for old ferry ticket office being mooted

the reserve, but this has not proved expectations. about the reserve and the Old Ferry possible. Among suggestions being history – and needing the loo! The Old Ferry Ticket Office has considered are: „ Week-long use by staff and now been refurbished inside and „ Merkinch LNR Visitor Centre volunteers working on site who out and is ready for its new role – „ The OFTO need a place to shelter, make tea THE results of a questionnaire are but what should it be called? „ Merkinch LNR Base and use the loo. being awaited. The questionnaire was „ Merkinch LNR information „ A focal point for school children The Old Ferry Ticket Office has distributed to a representative point. in the area, whether primary or played a positive role for many selection of people in the area. One thing is sure—there will be secondary, while visiting the years in the interpretation of It is was felt that as it was no no sales of anything as this is reserve. wildlife in the local nature reserve longer just a ticket office building written in the lease at present. „ A focal point for local families area and the South Kessock it should have a new name. Among the suggested uses for and older folk – somewhere to shoreline. Merkinch Local Nature Reserve the building are: come and chat at the weekend Original plans included a Visitor Centre is perhaps a bit „ Weekend use by the public „ A place for walks and bird- purpose-build visitor centre within grand, and might lead to false interested in finding out more watching outings etc to start from. March timetable All meetings are on Wednesday mornings from 10am to 1pm and participants meet at Inverness Bus Station or the Turning Circle at South Kessock.

Depending on the weather, activities this month are planned as follows… The Green Gym will again be visiting a variety of venues during their weekly sessions in February. On the 3rd there is footpath maintenance work at the LNR. On the 10th it’s organic horticulture at Inverness High School. On the 17th it’s a healthy walk round Abriachan Community Woodland. And on the 24th there are habitat management tasks to be tackled at the LNR. Rounding off the month landscaping and gardening tasks are planned at the Corbett Centre Community Garden. Please contact the Green Gym Project Officer on 01463 811560 for more information. All these activities are suitable for all abilities but involve some walking to the site. Please be advised that on occasions there may be a change to the day’s activities. Pick-up from Inverness bus station can be arranged. Joining the Green Gym also offers the opportunity to take part in the John Muir Award scheme. Please contact the office (01463 811560) on Mondays to confirm tasks/ book place/ arrange pick-up/ find out about the John Muir Award Scheme. For more info ring, or email Karen at [email protected] March 2010 7 Latest news of Merkinch projects

MERKINCH Partnership held a meeting on “to provide a Welcome Point for people 18th January. coming into the Nature Reserve, an informal Annie Marrs, Arts Worker, presented an friendly space for the whole community”. update on the arts activities in the area – she informed the meeting that the 2009 Operation Respect pantomime was the most successful to date The steering group held a meeting on 19th and all members agreed that the Theatre January. The Street Pastors reported that Group is a very positive development for they are in the process of recruiting the Merkinch area. additional volunteers and hope to expand The Bike Shed arts facility in Grant the project into the Hilton area. Street would capitalise on the Artist in Neil from mp33 reported that the Fusion Residency work already done in the area March 2010, detailing additional funding events for young people in the Community through “The Other Side of Air Project” in brought into the area using FSF as leverage. Centre had not been well-attended, although 2008. „ As regards future funding for the they were publicised widely in the High Updates were also circulated on the sports School – one event attracted 18 youngsters, Partnership projects, Highland Council programme and the work of the Partnership th compared to 60 young people attending Officer. Resources Committee met on 17 February Fusion in Hilton. „ Members approved Fairer Scotland and approved continuation funding for six He also spoke about plans to have a drop-in Funding of £2000 for the Street Pastor project months from April 2010. provision for young people twice a week in – Respect Merkinch. „ The next meeting of the Partnership is on the Grant Street café, starting in the second 22nd March in Merkinch Community Centre. week of February. Other issues highlighted at the meeting included: South Kessock Ticket Office Merkinch School Parent Council „ The sports programme is working The Local Nature Reserve Management The Parent Council held a meeting on 9th towards the Wider Role funding plan Group held a brainstorming session recently, February. They are planning to hold a Fun „ Funding applications for 2010/11 have looking at the future use of the ticket office. Day in May, date to be confirmed. Ideas included past, present and future Discussions are ongoing regarding the new been forwarded to Highland Council “timeline” displays, putting the logo on the playground equipment. Merkinch Partnership „ This year’s funding has all been drawn outside of the building, purchasing a TV and sports programme has donated a container to down laptop and sourcing archive material. the school, which will house recently- „ The issue of deprivation is still a priority Verity Walker, who wrote the purchased football equipment. for the Partnership Interpretation Plan for the Reserve, has been „ Merkinch Enterprise IT training for the commissioned to draw up a short plan for the „ For more information on any of the unemployed started today in Dalneigh. building, whose main focus will be as a base above projects contact Partnership Officer for the Nature Reserve. Anne Sutherland on 01463 718989/ 07872 „ Colin to do a final report at the end of The mission statement for the building is 014520 or e-mail [email protected]

Rent increases pegged to 1.3% Planning process goes digital

AS anticipated, Highland Council on 11February agreed to peg An enhanced online system enabling people to submit planning council house rents for 2010-11 to 1.3% - an average weekly applications, appeals against decisions, and track progress of proposals increase of 83p. in the Highlands went live on 23 February.

The increase will see the average council house rent increasing Applications are processed electronically by a team of seven staff from £63.92 per week to £64.75 per week (over 48 weekly based at the Council’s electronic processing centre in Inverness. charges). The increase also applies to hostel rents, garage and garage site Scanned and validated applications are available to view on the rents, service charges, sheltered housing warden charges, homeless Council’s website: http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/ charges, and gypsy/traveller pitches. Applicants and agents can still submit planning applications by post.

Calling all residents’ groups JON H. MEMORIALS

Tenants and Residents Associations within the FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS OFFERING PERSONAL & CARING Merkinch area are invited to get in touch with News & ADVICE HOME VISITS ARRANGED Views with the aim of regular coverage of their issues. RENOVATIONS & ADDITIONAL INSCRIPTIONS CARRIED OUT Ring us at Merkinch Enterprise on 240085 and leave IN ANY CEMETERY your name and phone number and the editor will call TELEPHONE FOR OUR HELPFUL BROCHURE you back, prior to going to press, so that we have the Proprietor Jon Hearach Macdonald latest news from your association. Alternatively, email TEL/FAX 01463 711287 HOME 01463 224635 or hand in a report/minutes of your latest meeting. UNIT 33 CARSEGATE ROAD, CARSEGATE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE INVERNESS IV3 6EX involving young people in Merkinch

33 Grant Street March 2010 Inverness IV3 8BN Tel: 01463 717639 Fax: 01463 717723 Thankfully our winter has eased a little since the last time, and we are now back up to full speed again. There are a few new features on the agenda, namely the introduction of a Youth Achievers group and a new Youth Club at the Grant Street Coffee Shop on Wednesday and Friday evenings. Our usual groups are all back up and running, including Girls Group, Boys Group, the Guitar and Film Clubs plus the drop-ins. We also hope to have a Mixed Martial Arts Club operating, which will be for 16+, at the Bike Shed on Mondays and Thursdays 4-5pm. This will initially be an introduction to the various martial arts at a basic level, and developing skills as the group progresses. GUITAR CLUB COOKERY SESSIONS The Guitar Club has been experimenting with recording onto our mulri-media PC via an mp33 has been turning the heat up recently... on the cooker that is, as we have been amp. After some adjustments on levels, and a little toying between different softwares, conducting some cookery sessions with some of our young people. Various dishes we’ve managed to acheive a reasonable quality of sound, if a little rough around the have been tried and tested, including venison stew, ham and lentil soup, steak and edges sometimes (more to do with the playing than the technology perhaps). With kidney pie, amongst others. After concerns about the diet of some of our young people, Matt on board, who has been teaching the group some groovy bass lines, the group has we have been trying to encourage more healthy eating at mp33. been working on 12 bar blues and small lead guitar pieces. New members are always welcome, regardless of skill. We meet on Fridays 5-7pm at mp33. YAA GROUP The Youth Achievers Group meets on Tuesdays from 3.30-4.30pm at mp33. The group is there to assist those young people that are undertaking the various challenges for their Awards. If you are interested, please get in touch with us at mp33. Tuesdays 3.30-4.30pm at mp33 FILM GROUP The Film Group is back on course again. Apart from continuing production on our psychothriller, we also have a few other ideas brewing for 2010. Sadly, one of cameras decided to pack in at a crucial moment in filming just before Christmas, but we still have our main camera, and may, hopefully, be able to borrow another. New members are always welcome. This is the ideal opportunity for you to get creative in film. Fridays 7-8.30pm at mp33 Wednesdays 9am-12pm at mp33 GIRLS GROUP The Girls group has been busy as ever. Apart from the usual programme of activities, including arts and crafts, body image and beauty sessions, members of the group have MMA CLUB just started their YAAs, and a number of the girls will be going for a snowboarding Interested in martial arts and getting into shape? Join us and start learning some new weekend at the end of February. If you are female and aged 12-18 years, you are skills. Just bring along suitable clothing for exercise and some fluids. We meet on welcome to come along, make new friends and take part in exciting activities. Mondays and Thursdays at the Bike Shed in Grant Street from 4-5pm. 16+ only. Tuesdays 4.30-6pm at mp33 Mon & Thurs 4-5pm at Bike Shed Grant Street Coffee Shop Education, Culture and Sport Youth Services Youth Drop-in Evenings and Merkinch Community Centre Thanks to the support of Iqbal Mohammed and our local Councillors, Mp33 is are proud to present now operating extra youth work sessions from Grant Street Coffee Shop. Two new sessions are now available;

Wednesday from 7-9 for all young people in S1 and S2 Friday from 7-9 for all young people in S3 and above

The Café will host a series of arts and crafts, live music nights, activities and planning for events as well as information giving and occasional health promotion evenings. A pool table and juke box are also available for use on the less formal evenings. Saturday 20th March 2010 As well as being staffed by youth workers from mp33, two local young people are helping on the Wednesday evening as they work toward their Youth Merkinch Community Centre Achievement Awards. 7pm-10pm Live music kicks off on the 19th of February with local Inverness band “Chasing Rain” – check out their Bebo site for news of the gig and listen to some Open to all S1 to S6 pupils of their tracks and vids. Body Art & Tatoos Arts & Crafts Calling All Fishers Inflatable Assault Course Trout season opens in one month’s time – anybody interested in forming a Mixed Martial Arts fishing group to go and try to catch some of the little blighters, then please contact Neil at mp33, and we’ll plan some trips and maybe even a barbecue if Don’t miss the NEW FUN NIGHT out for young people we can catch some! 10 News & Views Easter fun at Council seek people’s views South Kessock on where to slash budget and

SOUTH Kessock Residents other such tricky issues Association are holding an Easter Fun Day on A CITIZENS’ Panel is to be established to Describing the budget challenges ahead Saturday, 27 March. act as a sounding board on a range of as extreme, he went on to say, “Balancing The event will take place behind the Highland Council issues, including the the books is essential if the council is to Community House in Craigton Avenue. budget. remain able to provide the services on Among the entertainments planned are an Soon the Council will be writing to which our communities depend.” Egg Hunt, painting boiled eggs, an egg and Highland households to identify council tax At a special meeting on 11 February, spoon race, face painting and a BBQ, of payers who are prepared to be consulted on Highland Council confirmed savings in its course! Council issues. three biggest spending Services, namely It is also hoped that it will be possible to It is hoped the panel will comprise more Education Culture and Sport (£2.693m), organise donkey rides. than 2,000 people all across the Highlands. Social Work (£1.828m) and Transport The budget options will also be aired at Environmental and Community Services Ward Forums. (£3.420m), as well as the Joint Committee Council Budget Leader Councillor David for Children and Young People (£0.759m). Last word in chain letters? Alston said the Council want to safeguard Savings in Chief Executive’s department future services by planning ahead and by (£1.694m), Finance (£0.331m), Housing and listening to the public’s views about their Property (£0.535m) and Planning and priorities before agreeing budgets for 2011- Development (£0.313m) were agreed at the 12, 2012-13 in the autumn of this year. Council’s meeting in December ’09. Councillors agree to tighten their belts HIGHLAND Councillors have agreed to a £9,000 savings per year on catering provision package of measures to reduce costs arising of cooked and light lunches at main committee from members’ travel, catering, councillor meetings at headquarters; surgeries and accommodation expenses. introduction of a tendering exercise for the Members agreed that £50,000 would be provision of members’ catering at Council removed from the their budget in headquarters; and 2011/12. These savings are in addition to a ceasing to provide tea and coffee for NOT MUCH previous £105,000 and £78,000 removed from meetings which last less than two hours at the 2009/10 and 2010/11 members’ budgets Council headquarters. respectively. The current cost of a cooked lunch on main Measures to bring about the 2011/12 year committee days is £8.20 per head and on other budget savings will include: meeting days when a light lunch is provided members car-sharing and making greater £5.20 per head. use of public transport and cycling; Under a nationally agreed allowance scheme NOT MUCH greater use of video and tele-conferencing, (over which the Council has no authority) and the expansion of web-casting in order to members are entitled to claim a maximum of reduce the need to travel; £12 in expenses for lunch if a meal is not a reduction of 20% cost per head or provided by the Council. Rhona Joan impresses with her architectural studies

AN attendee at the Corbett passion for local architecture viewer can really feel the Centre who is a member of is evident in a series of energy of the linocut process Studio’3 is making a name linocuts and ink and acrylic in this series of prints. for herself in the world of wash drawings depicting “Macleod presents a fine art. historic buildings and pastiche of architecture old Rhona Joan Macleod riverside scenes in Inverness. and new in her pencil and ink recently exhibited a number Derived from sketches and drawing Eden Court, and a of her fascinating works at photographs, Macleod’s use finely executed ink and Inchmore Gallery and the of linocut together with her acrylic wash drawing River show is now moving to stylised drawings present a City is a particular highlight Ullapool. The exhibition was unique vision of our of her exhibition. reviewed by Georgina everyday surroundings. “The structure of this Coburn (another Merkinch “Riverside 2 with its strong drawing is impressive, and resident) in the online black definition of the contrast between man- magazine Northings, architectural forms softened made architectural geometry published by Hi-Arts. She by pastel washes and and organic line is said: wonderfully animated skies, reminiscent of Charles “Rhona Joan Macleod’s is an excellent example. The Rennie Mackintosh.” March 2010 11

You and Prize Quiz

your health This month Quiz fans once again get a shot at winning the Nicol’s Killer Prices’ prize of a £10 voucher. When you’ve answered all the questions, fill in your details and send your entry in or deliver Break free on March 10 it to Merkinch Enterprise, 14 Grant Street to reach us no later ABOUT half to two-thirds of all long-term smokers die prematurely than Monday 15th March. because of their smoking; on average 16 years earlier than if they did not 1. Who was burned at the B: A million smoke. The main causes of death attributable to cigarette smoking are cancers, diseases of the heart and circulation and lung disease. stake, aged 19, in 1431? C: A billion. Giving up smoking can reduce the risk of developing many other A: Joan of Arc 6. What film features the song smoking-related illnesses. These include: Age-related hearing loss, B: Scotland’s last witch “Over the Rainbow”? Chronic back and neck pain, Cataracts, Diabetes (type 2, non-insulin- C: Marie Antoinette. A: Snow White and the Seven dependent), Erectile dysfunction, Gum disease, Macular degeneration 2. The road sign of a red Dwarfs (causing blindness), Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid arthritis, diagonal cross on a blue B: The Wizard of Oz Skin wrinkling. background in a red circle C. Beauty and the Beast. About 4,000 chemical compounds have been identified in cigarette means what? 7. Which trio below are not all smoke, of which over 40 are known to cause cancer. The three most A: No smoking Snow White’s friends? significant components of cigarette smoke are: B: End of motorway A: Doc, Grumpy, Happy Nicotine: the drug in cigarettes which is addictive (this is what keeps C: No stopping . B: Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy smokers smoking). It does not cause cancer, and has only limited links 3. Which rock band were C: with conditions affecting veins and arteries. Dopey, Beaky, Tich originally called the Spectres? 8. Which is furthest north? Tar: one of the substances produced when tobacco is burned. It is linked A: The Beatles to cancers, lung disease and heart disease. A: Seville B: Boyzone B: Majorca Carbon monoxide: a gas inhaled by smokers from cigarettes. It is linked C: Status Quo. to heart disease and has adverse effects in pregnancy C: Barcelona. 4. Fratricide is the killing of Beneficial health changes on stopping smoking 9. What is a Francophile? After 20 minutes: Blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal. After one's what? A: Someone who loves 8 hours: Nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in blood reduce by half, A: Sister everything to do with France oxygen levels return to normal. After 24 hours: There is no nicotine left B: Brother B: A Spanish fascist in the body. Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris. C: Uncle. C: A French millionaire. After 48 hours: Carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body. Ability to 5. Roughly how many 10. What is Acapella? taste and smell is greatly improved. After 72 hours: Breathing becomes kilometres does light travel in A: A Mexican resort easier. Bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase. After 2- an hour B: A form of headgear 12 weeks: Circulation improves. After 3-9 months: Coughs, wheezing A: A thousand C: Singing unaccompanied. and breathing problems improve as lung function is increased by up to 10%. After 1 year: Risk of a heart attack falls to about half that of a

smoker. After 10 years: Risk of lung cancer falls to half that of a smoker. After 15 years: Risk of heart attack falls to the same as someone who has never smoked. Our advice: Ask our pharmacist which products are available to help you Name………………………………………………….…. stop. Try to give up and try again if you did not succeed the previous time. You will need willpower and determination. It will not be easy. You may want to eat more — make sure you eat healthy snacks to avoid putting on too much weight. Address………………………….…………………..…..

CELEBRITY SLIM is a sassy new diet approach based on science. CELEBRITY SLIM is designed to help you control your weight and, more impor- tantly, to maintain it. Eat one balanced meal each Phone……………………………………………….…… CELEB-day and replacementsnack on a variety of allowable foods. RITY SLIM products. FREE SERVICE is designed Eat one It can take both time and trouble to to help you balanced order a repeat prescription, collect it control your meal each from the surgery and then visit a weight and day and pharmacy. We can help by collecting to maintain snack on a your prescriptions from the surgery Last month’s quiz check it. Simply variety of for you. In most cases all you have to replace two allowable do is order your prescription from 1. The Orkney Oyster is a wave energy device. your doctor’s in the usual way and tell meals each foods. When 2. Frederick Bulsara was better known as Freddy Mercury, the them we will collect it. We will have day with you reach your medication ready for you about lead singer of Queen. our deli- your goal, 48 to 60 hours later. 3. The Seychelles are in the Indian Ocean. cious CE- CELEB- LEBRITY RITY SLIM Available from all city surgeries 4. The Calabria region is in Italy. SLIM meal will help 5. A tabor is a drum. 6. The heptathlon involves seven athletic events. Rowland'sRowland's PharmacyPharmacy 7. The 1950s serial killer John Christie lived in Rillington Place. 5454 GrantGrant Street,Street, InvernessInverness 8. The Estoril Grand Prix circuit is in Portugal. Tel:Tel: 0146301463 232217232217 9. A Hellenist is an expert in Greek language or history. 10. Liberace’s Christian names were Wladziu Valentino. 12 News & Views … Sports News … Sports News …

Snowboarding High School team into the Merkinch 1-1 Dalneigh (John Thanks to Merkinch Partnership Charleston Academy league. MacKenzie) Sports Scholarships scheme four P6/7s: young people are getting to Soccer Sevens Merkinch 1-1 (Conner experience this relatively new sport The winter snow continued to play McPhee) for the first time. The trip is being havoc with the Soccer Sevens Merkinch 2-0 Duncan Forbes organised by MP33 and the four schedule but the only game being (Matthew McLaughlin x2) girls participating are very excited played this year went Merkinch’s Merkinch 0-0 Central at hitting the slopes. way with a 4-2 victory. However Merkinch 1-0 (Jordan the IDSSA indoor football event MacKenzie) Mountain biking went ahead as scheduled at Merkinch 1-1 Dalneigh (Matthew The first mountain bike excursion Inverness Leisure on Saturday, 6 McLaughlin) of the year took place a month later February. Merkinch 1-1 Smithton (Jordan Street League and Youth League than normal because of the chaos Merkinch entered a P4/5 and a MacKenzie) Training for both these teams starts caused by the snow. With two new P6/7 team, goal scorers for Merkinch 1-0 ACC (Josh Black). Saturday, 20 March. The Street cross-country bikes the group hit Merkinch are in brackets. It was a successful day on the League team is open to anyone the trails at Craig Dunain. The next P4/5s: whole for Merkinch, particularly born on or after 1 January 1996 mountain bike trip is set for Merkinch 0-3 Duncan Forbes for the older group who managed and the Youth league is open to Saturday, 6 March starting 9am. Merkinch 2-0 (John to avoid defeat and for young John anyone born on or after 1 January MacKenzie x2) MacKenzie who was our top scorer 1994. Dodgeball Merkinch 1-2 Central (Troy on the day with five goals. Three teams from Inverness High Cooper) Special mention once again to American Football School played Charleston Merkinch 0-2 ACC goalie Daniel Hoban who was top The first practice for the junior Academy and once again returned Merkinch 1-1 B (Declan class on the day, only conceded contact team (14 to 17-year-olds) without a win. They did however Cooper) three goals (one of which was from took place last month, with games manage to draw two games. Plans Merkinch 2-0 Crown (John a cruel deflection) and was without to follow in March/April. are being put in place to enter a MacKenzie x2) doubt the keeper of the tournament. Merkinch Partnership Sports Programme The Merkinch Mondays Partnership Sports 12.30-1.30pm 12-16yrs Flag Football Inverness High School Programme 4-5pm 12yrs+ Jogging mp33 was set up to increase Tuesdays participation in sport, removing 12.30-1.30pm 12-16yrs Dodgeball Inverness High School any barriers preventing people 6-8pm 12yrs+ Free Running Inverness High School from taking part and to Wednesdays increase opportunities by 4-5pm 3-5yrs Karate Merkinch Community bringing in a mix of traditional Centre and new sports. 5-6pm 6-12yrs Karate Merkinch Community Centre If you would like any 6-7pm 13yrs Karate Merkinch Community further information about Centre 8-9pm Adult Rugby Westfield any of the events or have ideas about other sports Fridays you would like to participate 7.30-9.30pm 11-21yrs Basketball Inverness Leisure in contact David on 07951 Saturdays 13 March – 26 June 977 922. 10-11am 12-14yrs Street League training Carse Park 10.30-11.30am 15-17yrs Youth League training Carse Park You can also see what’s

Saturdays new and leave your 9-10am 9-11yrs Soccer Sevens training Merkinch Primary comments on Bebo. 9-12noon 12yrs+ Mountain Biking Carse Park 1-3pm 14-17yrs American Football Queens Park

Sundays 12.30-3.30pm Adults American Football Queens Park 4-6pm Adults Football Park

If you are interested, or for more information on any of the above, contact David Paulin on 07951 977922. March 2010 13 … Sports News … Sports News … New club combines range of martial art techniques to allow cross-competition

MIXED Martial Arts (MMA) is a full contact combat sport that allows a wide variety of fighting techniques, from a mixture of martial arts traditions and non-traditions, to be used in competitions. The rules allow the use of striking and grappling techniques, both while standing and on the ground.

Such competitions allow martial artists of different Introducing parkour and free running

backgrounds to compete. The group meet every Monday and Parkour is the art of movement. The goal of parkour is to get from Thursday from 4-5pm in The Bike Shed on Grant Street, and point A to point B as fast and efficiently as possible. Participators sessions cost £1 per session for 16 year-olds and older. (traceurs) do this by performing jumps and vaults over obstacles that

Thanks go to Arts in Merkinch for stretching their may get in their way. Freerunning is basically the same thing. The interpretation of the term “arts” and allowing the use of their difference is that freerunners add their own styles to the moves. They venue without which the MMA classes could not take place. do this by adding flips and spins to their movements. Sessions are every Tuesday from 6-8pm at Inverness High School. Taxis toddle off with Threes titles

RESULTS of the John Price Shield which was held at the equal second with City Taxis so Results 21 Threes at Clach Club on 11 Portland Club. The results of the there is no change in the top seven January: February were as follows: final stages were— places in the A League but the A League: Prelim: Portland A1 bt Portland Quarter finals: Culloden Moor Inn bottom two both pick up points and Tarradale 2 A2, Culloden Moor Inn bt Portland bt Portland X1, Raigmore B bt Keppoch are now only a point City Taxis 10, Culloden Moor Inn 3 A3. Portland X2, City Taxis bt Thistle, behind Legion with Tarradale a Uncle Bob’s 9, Raigmore B 6 1st Rnd: Portland A1 bt Culloden Spikey’s bt Phoenix. further point behind. Spikey’s Keppoch 6, Legion A 3 East End Moor Inn, Uncle Bob’s 2 bt Semi Final: Raigmore bt Culloden, need four points from four games Arrows 9. B League: Thistle 0 Raigmore B, City Taxis bt East City Taxis bt Spikey’s. to pick up the B League title for Spikes 12, Chieftain Bullies 6 Legion End Arrows and Clach Club bt The final (Taxis names first): the first time.. Although the top B 6, Phoenix Flames 6 Raigmore A Uncle Bob’s 3. Bomber Godsman 1 Keith place in the B looks fairly 6, Clach Club 4 Finlay’s 8. Semi Final: Portland A1 bt Uncle Robertson 0, Kevin Clark 1 George secure the next six teams are only In the A League with leaders Bob’s 2 and City Taxis bt Clach Main 0, Andy Mackintosh 0 Nigel separated by three points. Portland A idle, second-placed City Club. McEwan 1, Double: Bomber and Results 28 January: Taxis reduced the deficit to 4pts with Final (Taxis names first) Ally Kevin 1, Nigel and Keith 0. The The qualifiers for the John Price Uncle Bob’s a further 2pts back in McGinely 2 Alan MacKinnon 0, runners-up also used four players Threes final are Portland A 1,2 and third. At the other end Keppoch catch Robert Mackenzie 2 Dave King 0, Fiona Stott having played in the 3, Uncle Bob’s 2 and 3, City Taxis up with Tarradale and they are three Tommy MacDonald 0 Davey earlier rounds. Maximums were 3, Clach Club 2, Culloden Moor points behind Legion A. Spikey’s Fraser 2. scored at the Smith by Rhonda Inn 1, East End Arrows 2 and increase their lead in the B League In the double Ally and Robert beat Philip (Portland X) Bryan Whyte Raigmore B3. Robert Mackenzie with a white-wash over Thistle, Alan and Dave King so City Taxis (Spikey’s) and Derek Maclean (City Taxis) and Alan Ewan whilst Bullies were held to a draw by lifted the title. Ally Goodlet had (City Taxis) Derek also checked ( Portland A) both hit two 180s and Legion B. The gap is now 4pts with played in some of the earlier out 120 and 104. one each came from Steve Donald Portland X a further 2pts behind but rounds for the winners. Results 4 February: (Culloden Moor Inn), Shane they have played a game less than the Sandy Morrison (Culloden Moor A League: City Taxis 3 Port land A Wharton ( Portland A) Jim Hunter top two. Raigmore A picked up their first Inn), Davey Fraser (Portland A) 9, Uncle Bob’s 4 Raigmore B 8, ( Portland A), Stevie Falconer point of the season when they held and Don Maclean Snr (Clach Club) East End Arrows 6 Tarradale 6, ( Portland A), Alex Fraser the Flames to a draw. all hit two maximums and one Keppoch 7 Legion A 5. (Keppoch), Steve Mitchell (City each came from Michael Maclean B League: Raigmore A 4 Clach Taxis) and Andrew Macdonald Results 14 January: (Uncle Bob’s) Kevin Chisholm Club 8, Finlay’s 7 Thistle 5, (Keppoch). A League: Keppoch 2 Culloden Moor Inn 10, East End Arrows 8 (Uncle Bob’s) Tommy Macdonald Clachnaharry Spikey’s 9 Chieftain Joyce Elder of Portland X has Raigmore B 4, Uncle Bob’s 3 (City Taxis) and Alan MacKinnon Bullies 3, Legion B 6 Portland X 6. been recalled to the Scottish Portland A 9, Tarradale 6 Legion A (Portland A), the last one coming It was top of the table clashes in International squad for the 6. B League: Raigmore A 5 Portland in the final. both leagues and the leaders both British championships at X 7, Chieftain Bullies 10 Thistle 2, The top check-outs were Steve won 9-3 putting themselves in Bridlington in April. Joyce is at Clachnaharry Spikey’s 9 Clach Club Ross (Clach Club) 120 Don touching distance of the respective the top of the Scottish inter 3, Finlay’s 11 Phoenix Flames 1. Maclean Snr 118, Robert titles. Portland A need five points county averages for the current Portland A have increased their lead Mackenzie 108 and 100 and Sandy from five games to clinch season , and another Highland over City Taxis to eight points but Morrison 106. Sandy also hit a 13 their twelfth A League win in player Lynn Shearer is in 5th the Taxis had an opportunity to dart leg as did Davey Fraser. succession. Raigmore B beat Uncle place but Lynn missed out on her reduce that as the leaders had no City Taxis also won the Smith Bob’s to stop the Nairn team going recall. game. 14 News & Views

Consumer advice... Humour on the ’Net Buying a car privately? Know your rights

CONSUMERS may not be aware that shopping for a car through One man and his sheep... classified adverts either in newsprint or online can be a risky option. A SHEPHERD was herding his flock in a remote pasture when Buying a vehicle privately may mean that you get your dream motor suddenly a brand new BMW advanced out of a dust cloud towards cheaper than buying from a dealer. However it could also mean that you him. The driver, a young man in a silk suit, Gucci shoes, Ray Ban encounter further problems and your dream car could turn out to be a sunglasses and YSL tie, leans out the window and asks the shep- costly nightmare. herd: “If I tell you exactly how many sheep you have in your Consumers may not realise that some dealers pretend to be private flock, will you give me one?” sellers to avoid their legal obligations and to get rid of faulty or over- The shepherd looks at the man, obviously a yuppie, then looks priced cars. Some disguised car dealers advertise in local newspapers at his peacefully grazing flock and answers: “Sure, why not?" and shop windows and in online classified advert websites. The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook com- Here are some warning signs that consumers should look out for puter, connects it to his AT&T cell phone, surfs to a NASA page when buying a vehicle, privately. on the internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite navigation sys- Beware of advertisements that show: tem to get an exact fix on his location which he then feeds to an- Only a mobile phone number as a contact. If you do call their other NASA satellite that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution number find out if the seller lives locally. Trying to sort out problems photo. Then the young man opens the digital photo in Adobe Pho- later with a seller who is not near at hand can be time consuming and toshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg, costly. Germany. An email address only as a means of contact. It could mean the seller Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the lives anywhere in the UK and if you buy a car from them which turns image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses a out to be faulty; it could be difficult to trace them again, if you need to. MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet The same phone number. This could mean the person is a disguised with hundreds of complex formulas. He uploads all of this data via car dealer, selling lots of different cars. an email on his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives a If you do spot a car which sounds like a good deal then still be on response. Finally, he prints out a full-colour, 150-page report on your guard when meeting up with the seller. his hi-tech, miniaturised HP LaserJet printer and finally turns to For instance, beware of sellers who: the shepherd and says: “You have exactly 1586 sheep.” „ Want to meet you somewhere else, instead of at their own home, “That's right. Well, I guess you can take one of my sheep,” says such as a lock-up garage, or town or city car park. They may wish to the shepherd. He watches the young man select one of the ani- protect their own privacy. However, they may also wish to make it mals and looks on amused as the young man stuffs it into the trunk difficult for you to trace them at a later stage. of his car. „ Say that they have only had the car for a short period of time, such as Then the shepherd says to the young man: “Hey, if I can tell a week, a month etc. It could be that they have changed their mind you exactly what your business is, will you give me back my about the car and no longer like it or want it. However, it could also sheep?” The young man thinks about it for a second and then says, mean that they are in trade as a car dealer. “Okay, why not?” „ Say they do not have the service book or manuals for the vehicle. It “You’re a consultant,” says the shepherd. “That's correct,” says could be that these items are lost. However, a service book is a good the yuppie, "but how did you guess that?” indication of how well the car has been maintained over its lifetime and “No guessing required,” answered the shepherd. “You is a useful guide to know whether or not you are getting value for showed up here even though nobody called you; you want to get money. paid for an answer I already knew to a question I never „ Say that they have had lots of interested buyers and that the car will asked; and you don't know crap about my business... Now give be sold if they cannot make a deal with you there and then. This could me back my dog.” be a ruse to get you to make a quick decision that you might later regret. „ They do not have the cars registration document or MOT certificate. Don’t rely upon the seller sending this to you at a later stage. The car could be stolen or may not have a current or valid MOT certificate. Also check that the car has a current and valid road tax disc Be an angel... displayed. If you live in or near It may be a good idea to get the registration number of the vehicle Lower Kessock Street and you are interested in buying, BEFORE you go to view it. You can check Pumpgate Court/Street if a car has been either stolen, been involved in an accident or has be an angel and help deliver News & outstanding finance on the vehicle by contacting the HPI either by Views to a couple of streets near you. If telephone or online. Consumers can contact the HPI in writing at: you’re willing, contact Merkinch HPI Ltd, Dolphin House, New Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2PH Or call on: 01722 422 422. Enterprise, 14 Grant Street. Or ring Consumers can also enter in the registration number online to receive 01463 240085. vehicle information at: www.hpicheck.com/ It is also a good idea to take someone along with you when buying a car Published by Merkinch Enterprise privately as they can be a witness to what is being said about the car (e.g. 14 Grant Street, Inverness IV3 8BL good runner, sound engine, etc). Tel: (01463) 715450 Fax: 01463 717977 Remember that you have fewer rights in law if you buy a car privately. e.mail: [email protected] The only comeback that you will have against the seller would be is if they Merkinch News & Views always welcomes input from readers. If you have an idea for an described the car inaccurately to you. You do not have any rights against the article, any comments or questions, please get in touch with us at the above address. seller if the car is faulty or not fit for purpose and cannot demand a refund from them at a later stage. You can check out your rights further by going to Consumer Direct website at: www.consumerdirect.gov.uk or contact an advisor on 08454 04 05 06 for more advice. Or you can also visit or write to: Highland Council Opinions expressed in this publication are not neces- Trading Standards Service, 38 Harbour Rd, Inverness IV1 1UF. sarily those of the editor, or of Merkinch Enterprise. March 2010 15

This is the time of year when many creatures produce their young — lambs, calves and little birds. Here is a deer in the forest with her two youngsters. What colour should they be? You decide and colour them in...

I went to the doctor’s the other day and I said, “Have you got anything for wind,” so he gave me a kite.

A sandwich walks into a bar. The barman says: "Sorry, we don't serve food in here."

Two aerials meet on a roof, fall in love get married. The ceremony wasn't much but the reception was brilliant.

Fliperz Daycare

Enrolment

FLIPERZ is now enrolling 3 and 4 year olds for the session 2010 to July 2011. When enrolling please bring your child’s Birth Certificate. You may call into Fliperz and have a look round any time.

„ Daycare „ Nursery Sessions „ After School Care „ Holiday Care

Contact: The Childcare Manager, Fliperz Daycare, Simpson’s Lane. Telephone 234232. 16 News & Views

LEFT… There’s martial arts and there’s martial arts… and sometimes the rules governing one are so different from the traditions of another that adherents can’t share their skills. But with MMA (mixed martial arts) compromise is reached so that participants in a range of martial arts can share their sports. MMA is proving popular with local young people and Sport in Merkinch has won the cooperation of Arts in Merkinch so that they are being allowed to hold their sessions in the Bike Shed, and can even store their mats there.

LEFT BELOW… American Football — Alan and Kyle try out for the new junior kitted team from Inverness High School.

More sports coverage on pages 12 and 13...