Hope Celebrates Spirit of BC Week 2008

Hope was one of more than 100 communities to celebrate Spirit of BC Week 2008. There were numerous events, including charity hockey games between Fire Department and RCMP as well as free skates, swims and curling lessons.

A fundraiser for the local school band featured dinner, music and an art display. An annual volunteer celebration called Planning the Dream saw attendees dressed in 1850-period evening wear to commemorate BC150 Years. With more than 450 volunteers of all ages, the event drew participants from all communities in the Fraser Valley Regional District, and other areas. Entertainment was provided by youth musicians and Hope Senior Secondary performers as well as First Nations Drum and Dancers.

Arts events included the Hope Museum photographic exhibition focusing on the history of Japanese internment camps in British Columbia and puppet performances by Miryana Heath. A family literacy event featured a reading by BC children's author Antonia Banyard from her book Dangerous Crossings: Tales from the Edge.

Spirit of BC Week is an annual province-wide celebration of British Columbia and its unique communities. Held each February, it is a week of over 300 events and activities showcasing local programs and services that strengthen community arts, literacy, sport, recreation and volunteerism. The celebration is supported by the Province of British Columbia.