Wildlife extermination is an industry says reader

Dear Editor:

The way it’s going soon there won’t be any wildlife. This all started when the Harper government gagged or fired Canada’s science department, handing the responsibility of wildlife management to the private business sector—to try to make a buck on. Now wildlife extermination is an industry, with the more marketable animals getting rounded up and relocated to privately-owned game farms. It’s happening right now under your nose. Big business and your government have cooked up a plan to turn wildlife into money—and you’re not in it.

Powerful business associations for industries such as logging and cattle ranching, mostly regard wildlife a nuisance cutting into profit, competition they’d like to get rid of—or at least lock-up in cages and charge admission. Now about the only government-approved “conservation” program we have is culls and relocations. Most troubling, the public has essentially been eliminated from any of the decision-making. Change that. Get involved.

Bryan Stawychny Edgewater

- 10 a.m. This free family-friendly event will be held at the Radium Centre. We have a lot of fun activities planned, including an outdoor scavenger hunt, goodie bags, and crafts. Our special guest, the Easter Bunny, will make an appearance and will be available for photos. Refreshments will also be provided.

This week’s column was written by Jacqueline Wagner, director of the Radium Public Library, which is located at 4683 Stanley Street. Call 250-347-2434 for more information.

We have a busy spring planned at the Radium Library! We offer a range of free programming and services for all ages. Every Tuesday from 1 - 3:30 p.m. we host an ‘Art in the Afternoon’ program where local artists and art enthusiasts gather at the library to work on individual projects. We also offer a Storytime every Wednesday at 11:15 a.m., and on Thursdays the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy provides one-on-one tech support at the library from 2 - 4 p.m. We also now offer a weekly craft program on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. On Saturday, March 11, we will be offering a St. Patrick’s Day-themed craft, and on Saturday, March 18 we have a STEAM-themed activity. And on Wednesday, March 22 we will be offering a scrapbooking workshop for seniors from 2 - 4 p.m. We are also hosting a free tax clinic through the CRA’s Community Volunteer Income Tax program until April 30. Those with a modest income and simple tax income are eligible for assistance. The Radium Library is also excited to announce that we will be hosting our third annual Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, April 8 from 9

Friends of the Radium Library Update

By Donna Tunney

The Friends of the Radium Library is a group of volunteers who promote, support, and fundraise for the Radium Hot Springs Library. Check out our new Facebook page @ Friends of Radium Library. Hit that ‘LIKE’ button to stay in the loop for all our exciting, upcoming events. And mark these dates on your calendar because you won’t want to miss a minute. On the Saturday of the May long weekend, we’re repeating our successful annual yard sale, in partnership with the Radium Fire Department and the Radium Rotary Club. If you have household items, toys, tools, and sporting equipment you no longer need, donate them to us. Better for you, better for the environment, and the library will get more books to share among its patrons. You included! Contact us on Facebook, or at 250-347-2434, if you have items to contribute. Look for our pop-up book sales throughout the summer - especially at the Columbia Valley Classics Show and Shine in September. Cars and books? They’re a great combination. Reading is the perfect way to enjoy a stopover when you’re on the road, whether you’re relaxing in the hot springs, chilling at the campgrounds, or enjoying Radium’s popular car show.

8th Annual