Earlier last month, Military Ames announced that those wishing to lay a wreath at Remembrance Day services this November 11 could either get the wreath through the Royal Canadian Legion in Cranbrook, or purchase one from the local florist, Flowers Galore, in Kimberley.
However, it now looks like that will not be possible, due to trademark issues with the poppy. After the original story was published, Daniel Martin from the Royal Canadian Legion National Headquarters contacted the Bulletin, stating the following:
“I am the representative for the Royal Canadian Legion national headquarters. Your article yesterday was misleading in that poppy wreaths are not rented but rather purchased. As well the poppy symbol is a registered trademark of the Royal Canadian Legion and cannot be used in any way in regard to remembrance without the express permission of this office.
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“Therefore the alternate wreaths are a violation of that trademark and they will be informed of such. If you have any questions please ask.”
Cindy Postnikoff of Military Ames says they have no choice but to cancel the option of purchasing a wreath in Kimberley.
“For Remembrance Day purposes, we regret to inform you that Flowers Galore cannot offer wreaths with poppies for sale for Remembrance Day” is the official statement from Military Ames.
You can arange for a wreath from the Royal Canadian Legion in Cranbrook at (250) 426-4512.
If you do acquire a wreath from the Legion in Cranbrook, please let Postnikoff know so they can list you on the program. Her number is 250-9193137. Watch for more details on the upcoming Remembrance Day ceremony in a coming edition of the Bulletin.