The Comox Valley Small Business Association (SBA) presented Lori Ball with the Merit Award at the organization鈥檚 June awards reception.

Ball, the organization鈥檚 director of community events, is the owner of Comox Valley Fossil Adventures.  The Courtenay-based company takes individuals and groups on fossil-hunting tours, and also provides educational presentations to schools and area organizations.  She is also active in the Rock & Gem club.

Nominations were submitted by other members of the organization based on specific criteria that are reflected in these comments on the nomination forms:  鈥淪he always goes above and beyond. Anything she does is towards the good of the organization.  In addition to holding a position on the BOD, she has also filled many other volunteer positions, and she is always promoting the SBA.鈥�

As a direct result of Ball鈥檚 co-ordination efforts, the SBA hosted a trade show that not only exposed many small businesses to the community, but also served as a fundraiser and earned more than $800 for the Care-A-Van.

The fall fundraiser, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which she co-ordinated, also contributed more than $500 to the Care-A-Van.

The SBA provides networking and educational opportunities for small- and home-based businesses that operate in the Comox Valley or neighboring areas.

The group meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month (except December, July and August) in Courtenay at the Filberg Centre (lower level).

Dues are $95 per year, with no meeting fees.

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