Out & About
Michael Burgess was greeted by an excited crowd of several hundred Sunday Aug. 3 as he graced the Oliver Community Stage for a second time in as many years.
Stephanie Salsnek, a personal friend of Michael’s, was elated at the turnout and even more so for the cause that was chosen for this year’s benefactor. When asked her thoughts, Stephanie stated,
“Michael Burgess arrived back in the Okanagan, just delighted to be here and very pleased that we found such an admirable cause – H2H – to be the benefactor of another delightful evening of music under the stars. We are really fortunate that his love of the Okanagan and his passion to support our next generation has blended together for Oliver.”
H2H, or officially called the Highway to Healing Support Society, was formed in 2013 after two years of preliminary work by the Oliver Rotary Club. Their mission remains to assist families in the Oliver area who have a child requiring medical care not available locally, and requiring travel outside the Okanagan Valley. Over the years, several Oliver families have experienced incredible support during times of medical need, and H2H now provides a hub of financial and informational resources which relieves some stress for local families in crisis situations.
Ernie Dumais, the current president of H2H, is overwhelmed with the community support for this endeavour during its short time since inception.
“Since the launch of the Highway to Healing Support Society in November 2013, the response from the Oliver community has been fantastic. We have received donations from individuals, service organizations and corporations which H2H can pass on to families who need to travel from the area for medical treatments for their children. The Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen has also provided H2H with a grant for start-up costs. We know that families in the community appreciate knowing that this great support is here for them.”
Ernie went on to say that the support from the sponsors and patrons of the Michael Burgess concert has also been excellent. “I would like to thank Michael Burgess for performing for the benefit of sick children from our community,” he said.
A big thank you goes out to Michael Burgess, the organizers and volunteers, sponsors, and the spectators who once again demonstrated how Oliver can come together to support those in need.
So wondering what’s coming up that you can take a break from your schedule and check out?
Thursday, Aug. 7 – Music in the Park with Andi Zack and Ken Johnson. This is the sixth of an eight-series event at our Oliver Community Stage from 6:30-8 pm. Andi has a new CD and ready to entertain her hometown with some new country pop.
Sunday, Aug. 10 – Join our very own BC Ambassador candidate Juliana Martine for a Summerset Soiree at beautiful Black Hills Estate Winery. Tickets are $20 and proceeds will assist with her fundraising efforts.
August 16 – The 4th Osoyoos Idol will hit the Gyro Band shell in Osoyoos from 4-11 pm showcasing local talent which we are well known for. This event is hosted by our Better At Home program that helps seniors in the Oliver/Osoyoos area to live independently. Contact your Desert Sun Counselling office for details.
August 16 – Here is something you don’t see every day – The Aqualillies, a live water ballet of “A Midnight’s Summer Dream” will be performing at Black Hills Estate Winery. The entire wine experience centre will feel like a Miami-style ultra lounge in the middle of their vineyard.
Take the time to get out and about, and enjoy what is around you – you’ll be glad you did.
Marji Basso
Oliver Chronicle
