RIVERS
BANNER October 7, 2016
ersary v i n Celebrating our 108th An
Gazette-Reporter Serving the Rivers, Rapid City and Oak River areas for 107 years
Volume 109, Issue 15
89¢ + tax
Photo by Sheila Runions
Garth Ventnor shows off the largest aquarium he sells, while several smaller ones line the shelf wall behind him.
Home hobby expands to business district By Sheila Runions Banner Staff
W
hen Garth Ventnor grew up in Rivers he learned the art of fishing; it is a joy that has sustained him in the years since. Not only does he try to catch them, he also raises them in his home, breeding sword tails, angel fish and cichlid. At times he has had so many young fish that he has sold them to stores in Brandon and beyond. “My dream was to grow my hobby out into the community. I’ve been in this for 25 years or
more; I love fish and fishing, it’s so peaceful.” Based on that dream, he negotiated a deal with Jordana Goldstein to rent her former Crafty Scrapper storefront at 526 Second Avenue in Rivers. “I’m on an eight-month trial to see how it goes; it’s worth a try. I’m not going to get discouraged if it doesn’t work out.” Garth planned a grand opening on his first day of business, Saturday, Oct. 1. He was pleased with the number of people who
stopped that day, and with the sales he made. He provided helium-filled Finding Nemo balloons to kids — “my heart is with children” — as well as juice and cookies to all. Gerald Lepp of Rivers won the door prize of a beta fish in a bowl and a set of wine glasses. There are 18 aquariums, each containing freshwater fish, as well as two empty tanks which are also for sale. The largest in the building is 180 gallons, which he is willing to sell if
anyone is interested; he has another one in his living room if he needs to replace the main attraction at his store. Besides the assortment of fish were three budgies and two bird cages, also all for sale. The south and west walls display a varied selection of dog and cat food/treats (ranging from small cans to 18-kilogram bags), shampoos, dishes, grooming tools, collars, toys, etc. as well as rabbit bedding. There is a ferret/chinchilla cage, fish puzzles, paintings and
underwater plants all offered for sale. Potted plants in the store are not for sale, including the jade which was given to him by Rivers and District Chamber of Commerce as a grand opening token. Garth had expected a few more attractions in the store but a family emergency with his wholesaler in Winnipeg prevented receipt of more animals. Tropical Fish and Pet Store will be open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and can be reached at 204-328-7223.