Penticton begins a year of centennial celebrations
Well the centennial year was kicked off in style.
Hats off to the 40 or 50 brave souls, some in delightful costumes, who charged into the icy waters of Okanagan Lake. Many thanks to the hundreds of people who lined the shore to cheer them on, especially those dressed in period clothes. Thanks as well to Amanda Left and Kayla Rheune for co-ordinating the event and to St. John’s Ambulance for ensuring that everyone had fun in safety.
The Polar Bear Dip was followed by a brief ceremony at the entrance to the park where Mayor Jake Kimberley unveiled a sign marking the future home of the Centennial Plaza which will be built as a grand entrance to the park. Construction will commence in the fall of this year.
The mayor also introduced the centennial mascot Eterna and presented Lynn Arling with a gift of a Centennial book and CD as her reward for entering the winning name. Thanks to all the people who entered the contest, the judges had a difficult task choosing a winner.
Special thanks to Penticton Parks and Recreation for ensuring the sign was put up and a one-time firepit installed on the beach. Thanks to Tim Hortons who provided much-needed hot chocolate and timbits to keep everyone warmed up. And of course the media who are always so supportive.
Many thanks to the councillors who braved the cold for this auspicious day and to all the members of the Centennial Advisory Committee who have worked long and hard for this years activities ... many more to come. Please visit our website for updates on events all year long,
This 100th birthday celebration is for everyone. I wish you all a wonderful, celebratory year with many happy memories of the 100th.
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