Election competition will be set aside as those vying for Vernon city hall unite for a good cause.
Vernon mayor and councillor candidates are being asked to volunteer during the Special Olympic book sale Nov. 17 and 18.
“It increases awareness of Special Olympics,” said John Topping, spokesman for the group which supports local athletes with developmental disabilities.
During half-hour shifts, the candidates will sell a few books prior to the Nov. 19 civic election.
“People will be able to meet the candidates,” said Topping.
This is being planned as a fun event and any intense campaigning or rivalries will be discouraged.
“We’ll be refereeing,” said Darrel Stinson, a former MP who will be overseeing the candidates.
“It’s going to be civilized. There shouldn’t be any fireworks.”
Some of the council-hopefuls have already signed up for shifts.
“I hope all of the candidates will come forward,” said Topping.
The book sale — which runs Nov. 17, 18 and 19 at the Village Green Centre — ensures Special Olympics has funds for training and attending tournaments.
“Through the generous donations of new and used books from the public, we have collected an assortment of more than 10,000 quality books of every description,” said Topping.
And the goal is to provide even more literary options.
“Any paperbacks we can get, we can sell,” said Topping.
Last year’s book sale raised $6,500 for Special Olympics.
For more information or to donate books, call 250-545-1287.
