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Spring Hawes
I've lived and worked in Invermere for the past 9 years. I've
always loved the outdoors, gardening, and living an active lifestyle.
My love of life and nature has made me a strong supporter of the
environment.
For many of those 9 years, I was a single parent, and I learned
the meaning of the phrase 'It takes a village to raise a child'.
My experiences as a single parent have given me intimate and practical
knowledge of the challenges often faced by women in our society.
Since moving to Invermere, I have owned and run Spring Health
Foods (formerly Mustard Seed Health Foods) to support my family.
My years as an entrepreneur and employer have given me an understanding
of what supports businesses need to be successful.
My decision to become involved in the Organic Food and Natural
Health Products industry was based on two things. One: I grew
up in a very health-conscious family, where I learned to appreciate
good, fresh food, and value the growers who produce it. Two: I
lived in Saskatchewan for several years as an adult, and observed
the agricultural practices most commonly used in grain production
on the Canadian prairies. My exposure to 'modern day' farming
helps me to understand the importance of sustainability in all
aspects of our community.
Several years ago, I sustained a serious spinal cord injury.
The support this community showed me and my family was extraordinary!
I feel extremely lucky to live in a place where the citizens throw
themselves whole-heartedly behind their neighbors in their time
of need. My time as a 'differently-abled' person has given me
a great awareness of social issues such as affordable, accessible
housing, transportation and employment, and access to appropriate
health care in Invermere.
I currently serve as President of A.C.E. (the Columbia Valley's
access committee). We work with local government to promote more
accessible communities for all. I also represent A.C.E. on the
Columbia Valley Transit Action Committee, a group which has been
instrumental in bringing the BC Transit Community Bus to the valley,
and which continues to provide input. I am a member of the Invermere
Business Committee and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce.
I would like to contribute to my community in a meaningful way.
I feel that my varied life experiences give me a personal understanding
of many of the community issues that Invermere is currently grappling
with. I bring a balanced, caring, and responsible voice to the debate,
along with my love of the people, and pride in my Community. Read
more about me, and give me your comments and opinions at:
Spring-Hawes-Invermere.blogspot.com. You can also reach me by
e-mail, at spring@springhealthfoods.com,
or call me at 250-342-2552. I look forward to hearing from you.
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