The Windermere Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 71 hosted their weekly Friday night dinner on March 4.

However, a special guest was in attendance.

John Zimmer, a Conservative Party of Canada candidate for the Kootenay-Columbia riding, was there to meet and greet legion veterans in the District of Invermere.

The meeting was part of Zimmer’s continuing campaign throughout the Columbia Valley, leading up to the tentative date for the nomination meeting on March 15 in Revelstoke and Golden, and March 16 in Invermere.

Zimmer intends to visit the Village of Radium Hot Springs and Golden on his way to Revelstoke as well.

“We’re working on some venues that we’re hoping to attend,” said Zimmer of the future visits.

Zimmer’s run began in the fall of 2010, but his campaign efforts kicked off in earnest on January 19.

“One of the things I’m in favour of is the abolition of the long gun registry,” said Zimmer. “I’m also interested in the economic well-being of this area, particularly in expanding  lumber markets to China. I’m interested in the transportation corridors here and improvements to Hwy. 1 and Hwy. 3. Those are the kinds of things I hope to talk about at these upcoming meetings.”

Despite the nomination meeting in Revelstoke and other Valley communities fast-approaching, Zimmer is looking to the future with positive thoughts.

“I’m looking forward to it, I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Zimmer. “There’s a few other people seeking the nomination of course. I’m looking forward to the support from the people in Revelstoke, Golden, Invermere… I’m looking for their support. I believe I have something to offer the people of this riding, I’ve been a long-term Conservative. I believe in Conservative principals and I think I embody them.”