Editor:
It was five years ago that I came together in the Mini Theatre with other concerned citizens discussing better ways to keep and better use this magnificent desert racing and training facility.
I remember standing up as I told my greying peers that money and how to pay for it was not the purpose, but rather that we should listen to the presentation, and find ways to save it, as we will never ever be able to afford the replacement costs.
I was asked to help and have been involved along with a few others to do just that…HELP…
Friends of Desert Park Society was formed as a non-profit structure so that when the park was saved for its intended use, we may be able to obtain some necessary grant funds to assist the Town and the local people in making the facility safe and fully utilized.
The time has come for this phase of our purpose to be active and we are asking that those who have the experience and the knowledge in obtaining grants, etc. to come forward and assist us now.
We also need people with secretarial skills to work within the society and various commissions that will come to be.
The Town of Osoyoos is currently working with the SIREC investor management group that has taken over and made something happen at the park.
Most of these people are some of the original concerned group and they are anxious to have a meaningful lease in place.
The entire South Okanagan-Similkimeen is already benefiting by the changes working at the park.
Young people are taking horse riding and care lessons, 4H Clubs are actively involved picking up rocks so that the best safety is in place for horses and those participating in various activities.
Our AGM is coming up on February, 18, 2010, 7 p.m., at the Sonora Community Centre. It is our hope that those that have helped in the past and those that would like to participate now will all attend.
All registered members at the start of the meeting will be able to participate in the voting and business presented.
Richard Tessier,
Osoyoos

OSOYOOS TIMES-February 10, 2010

FOUR-LANE EXPANSION OF HIGHWAY A BAD IDEA

Editor:
I agree with the presentation by the Dhaliwals at Monday night’s council meeting.
The Highway 97 passing lanes as proposed will affect the fruit stand business.
If the existing highway were used, it would provide a safe passing lane and the lower traffic could still pull off and re-enter for many years to come.
There would be only one road to maintain instead of two and the extra tax dollars could be used to properly fund the ambulance service.
Rudi Richter,
Osoyoos

OSOYOOS TIMES-February 10, 2010