submitted by Marion Trimble

Fifteen Oliverites made the trek to our neighbour south of the border and sister city, Lake Chelan, a  beautiful area west of Highway 97 and just 2 hours south of the border.  It sits at the end of 55 mile long, Lake Chelan, the longest lake of the lower 49 states.  An area very similar to Oliver with apple orchards, vineyards, sunshine and sagebrush. Like Oliver it too is a hidden gem.

This was the first time a group other than the town’s council members have officially met with citizens of that area.  The get together was intended to exchange a mutual sharing of ideas, a love of creativity and having fun while getting to know our neighbour.  It was a quick meet and greet organized by members of the Oliver Community Arts Council and the Oliver Sagebrushers Art Club.  A short trip, but a huge success.  The group was hosted by the Chelan Arts Council and local artists, members of the “Artists Alliance”.  A busy day with a luncheon at a riverside home ;  A guided walk through downtown to view murals and sculptures, a visit to an artists studio and a few local stores.  It ended with an evening potluck dinner in the nearby town of Manson.

Members of both groups agreed, we want to meet again.  Hopefully in late summer, or fall, Chelan visitors will come to our beautiful town and share the many gifts we have here.  An invitation is extended  to everyone in Oliver, not just artists, to greet our American neighbours with the desire to expand our knowledge and develop a deeper friendship with our sister city.  This is just the beginning of a great friendship.

Above is a photo of the Oliverites at the Lake Chelan Peace Poles.  The Oliver visitors were asked to bring with them rocks of special significance to lay at the foot of the poles.

Showcase of Talent had a musical (and colourful) cast of young performers on Friday May 9th onstage at Park Drive Church. All photos by Leza Macdonald.

Here is what one happy member of the audience had to say: “Wow!  Tonight was wonderful!  The children amaze us!  I thought it was great how they went above and beyond when singing their musical numbers and included their co-stars and acted as well.  This was all their own idea. “Thank you for all that you do to encourage youth to be involved in their music and art.  I know that my children have greatly benefitted by having the opportunities to perform at these events.  It gives them confidence in their talents and it never hurts to perform in front of people whenever they can.  They can never have too much encouragement.  We are so lucky to have people like you and the others in your circle who care about encouraging these children.  They are forever affected positively by your efforts.”