In response to the incredible efforts and courage shown by Emergency Services personnel during the Wilson Mountain and Testalinda fires this weekend, an appreciation event is planned for this Thursday, August 20th at Oliver Community Park.

“The fire fighters worked so hard Friday night to keep the flames from reaching our neighbour’s homes. Some came within feet.”, says Emergency Support Service Coordinator Janette Van Vianen, “Without them we would have been in a lot of trouble.”

This Thursday at 6:30pm the Oliver and Area C community will get the chance to publicly thank individuals from the Oliver, Willowbrook, Osoyoos and OK Falls Fire Departments, Oliver Osoyoos Search & Rescue, Penticton Search and Rescue, BC Forest Service Wildfire Management, the many ESS volunteers from Penticton, Summerland and Oliver who operated the Fire Reception Centre and the local businesses, volunteer organizations and individuals who donated bedding, food and supplies to those in need.

All are welcome to come show their appreciation and take part in the festivities.

A special appreciation dinner for the Emergency Services crews and those involved in the operations will be provided with thanks from the Town of Oliver. Live entertainment featuring railway songs from the Kettle Valley Brakemen will be presented by the Oliver Community Arts Council and the regular Evening Market featuring local produce and artisan products will take place. There will a thank you card making station and bouncy castles and face painting courtesy of Fun4Life.

For more information please contact the Oliver Community Centre at 250-498-4985.