| 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. | 
