After two and a half decades, a major Drumheller tourist attraction may be forced to close it doors.
     Dave Bethel, owner of Reptile World in downtown Drumheller tells The Mail that its facility is in dire need of upgrades, and if they are not able to secure the funding to complete the necessary repairs, he will have to close the business and find homes for the approximately 200 animals they have exhibited.
      In April, it will be 26 years that Reptile World has been operating in the valley. About 10 years ago, the animals were moved a new location on 3rd Avenue. From day one, they have had issues with the heating system in the building, but he says they have been able to maintain a safe environment for the animals.
     He is hoping to raise in the area of $400,000 to repair the heating system and upgrade insulation to the building, to provide a more efficient and consistent environment for the animals.
    Reptile World is a popular attraction for tourists and the perfect fit in the Dinosaur Capital of the World. Along with the tourism aspect, thousands of school children from across the province have had an up close and personal experience with Brittany the Boa Constrictor or met Fred the American Alligator.
    It also operates as a refuge for seized animals, works on captive reproduction of endangered species, public education and husbandry techniques.
    If Reptile World is faced with closure Bethel says he will need to find homes for most of their exhibits. While it is possible zoos may take some, most will have to be donated to private owners or collectors.
    He is confident it won’t come to that however. He hopes those whose lives have been touched by an experience at Reptile World will show support.
    For more information or to pledge support e-mail reptile@telusplanet.net.

On Wednesday evening, Comrade Bob Hannah was honoured with the Meritorious Service Medal, the highest award the Legion can present to its members. Hannah, centre, is presented the honour by Drumheller Legion President Deb Bolduc, left, and is joined by Max Carr, who “helped” Hannah run for his first presidency.

    A member of the Drumheller Legion received the highest honour that can be bestowed a member on Wednesday night, earning the Royal Canadian Legion Meritorious Service Medal.
    Bob Hannah has been a member in good standing for 32 years, but his service goes well beyond.
    He was honoured and humbled to receive the award.     
    During his tenure with the Legion, he served as Drumheller Branch #22 president for three terms. He was also active provincially and at the Dominion Command level. From 1997 to 2006, he served as chair on every Provincial Command committee except sports. At Dominion Command, he served on the leadership committee in 1997, sports in 2006 and veteran’s services and seniors in 2003 and 2005.
    “Comrade Hannah is always willing to go out of his way to help out any branch needing his help. He is always willing to visit any branch hosting a function and to be the guest speaker if requested. He is an outspoken advocate of the Legion in is entirety,” states his nomination.
    In some ways, Hannah stumbled into his role. In fact, Max Carr, who was on hand for the presentation, submitted Hannah’s name for president without Hannah’s knowledge.
    “I was working at the penitentiary and these people were coming by saying ‘I hear you’re going to run for president,’” he said. “I came down here and I asked to see the slip where I had signed, and they showed it to me.”
    He said he was prepared to rip up the form, but Bud Hansen and another Legion member concerned about the future of the institution, talked him into letting his name stand.
    “Seeing as I got in as president here, I decided to keep going!” he laughs.
    The Legion saw some difficult times, but it was able to pull itself through the lean years and rebuild its membership and finances.
    The Meritorious Service Medal is the highest award that can be granted to Life, Ordinary, Associate or Affiliate Voting Members.
    Branch#22 Legion President Deb Bolduc explains the local branch makes an application, and works its way through the Provincial Command all the way up to Dominion Command for approval.