229486
228476
Vernon  

Okanagan Indian Band officially opened their arbour Saturday

A place to gather

Members of the Okanagan Indian Band gathered at Komasket Park Saturday to celebrate the opening of the new arbour.

Held on the shores of Okanagan Lake, band members and the general public, participated in a variety of events to mark the special occasion.

Chief Byron Louis said the area will be utilized to hold events for generations to come.

“It can be for individuals, families and for the community,” said Louis. “It's another point where people can come together, especially families because it has been so tough for the last three years.”
Louis said the restrictions brought on by COVID impacted the band's ability to even hold proper ceremonies for those who have passed.

“We weren't able to have closure and some of our people are talking about that now to have gatherings to complete that,” Louis said. “People want to get back into what we took for granted.”

Louis said the arbour is a significant addition to the park that already has a pit house, ball diamonds, play area and other amenities for the North Okanagan community.



More Vernon News

233021