All of the hard work will pay off Friday in Armstrong-Spallumcheen.
The Kraft Celebration Tour rolls into town for a live TSN broadcast and a $25,000 cheque will be handed over for much-needed upgrades to the aging but always busy Hassen Arena.
The festivities are a direct result of the passion demonstrated not only by the residents of Armstrong and Spallumcheen, but people from throughout the North Okanagan. They went to their computers and voted to ensure the community’s hopes were kept alive through various rounds. And when Armstrong was declared the victor, the hard work got underway.
Led by city Coun. Ryan Nitchie and the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce, volunteers have rolled up their sleeves to ensure TSN and the folks from Kraft are welcomed in style.
Festivities begin at 1 p.m. downtown, with the $25,000 cheque being turned over at 2:30 p.m. and then TSN taking to the airwaves at 3 p.m. And while the money for Hassen Arena is important, it’s the live TV broadcast that will have an impact.
Viewers across the country will get a first-hand look at Armstrong and its vibrant lifestyle, from roller derby to life on a dairy farm. But most importantly, Canadians will be introduced to the people of Armstrong and Spallumcheen and the pride they have for their community. It’s hoped that from this broadcast, Canadians will be motivated to visit the North Okanagan and we will all benefit from the economic spin-offs.
But what ever happens in the future will happen. Now, in the present, is a time to celebrate.
We would encourage everyone in the North Okanagan to head to Armstrong Friday and participate in the festivities. After all, it was people power that brought the party here.
—Vernon Morning Star
