It takes a region to help a village.
Kevin Acton, Lumby mayor, used Wednesday’s Regional District of North Okanagan board meeting to thank all local communities for supporting the village and its Kraft Hockeyville bid.
“There’s been a very impressive showing of support,” he said. “Everyone gave 100 per cent.”
According to Acton, the Hockeyville bid reminded his residents that the North Okanagan is a great place to live.
“We’re part of something other than a small town.”
Voting ended Monday night and the community will now have to wait until Saturday, April 2 to find out if it’s won the Kraft Hockeyville title.
“I feel optimistic. I think we did awesome,” said Angie Clowry, who has been leading the troops.
Lumby and Saint-Isidore, Que. have automatically won $100,000 each for arena upgrades by being in the final two, and the final voting determines who wins the Hockeyville title and an NHL pre-season game.
The winner of Kraft Hockeyville will be announced Saturday and there will be a live broadcast from Lumby during Hockey Night In Canada.
Acton is urging all North Okanagan residents to make their way to Lumby for the announcement. A community celebration is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the arena parking lot as Lumby hosts CBC broadcasters. The announcement is expected around 3:45 p.m.
“Everyone put a lot into this effort and I hope people will come and celebrate with us,” he said.
