Times Chronicle Staff
The Fire and Ice Festival is well underway in Oliver leading up to this evening’s Light-Up celebration downtown.
The event began with a land acknowledgement and welcome by Osoyoos Indian Band elder Joe McGinnis and Chief Clarence Louie. McGinnis spoke in his original language and translated that into English.
“What I said was I welcomed everybody here on our Okanagan Nation territories, territories that we’ve never surrendered or gave up or had any treaties with anybody.”
McGinnis said Oliver has a special name in their language meaning a bedrock ridge that goes into the river. He noted that Osoyoos (in their language) means land under shallow water. He added that Penticton means there was always people living there.
“Our language is more than just words. Our language connects us to our lands physically and spiritually,” he said.
Louie thanked everyone who put the festival together, and acknowledged elder Veronica (Ronny) McGinnis, noting he and Ronny were first elected together in 1985. The chief also thanked his old high school teacher Ray Turner for his work on Remembrance Day, specifically by reading all of the veterans’ names out.
The opening remarks were followed by live performances including OIB drummer Kx Hall and storyteller Kali Baptiste, who recited two captivating stories of their people.
More live performances continue this afternoon prior to the official Light-Up ceremony at Town Hall starting at 6 p.m. when Santa arrives.
Later this evening the public is invited back to the Oliver Visitor Centre and Lion’s Park for more entertainment, a bonfire and fireworks at 8 p.m.
