News and Media
Opening of the B.C. Winter Games Office
By Carolyn Grant
The Kimberley/Cranbrook 2008 B.C. Winter Games celebrated their office opening on September 15 at Blarchmont School in Kimberley. Bob McWhinnie, the emcee, welcomed the guests, dignitaries and volunteers. Rob McIntyre, President of the Kimberley/Cranbrook organization presented an overview, followed by Allan Davis, Vice-President of the Games, who introduced the Directors, Speakers included Brian Bedell, A Sport Chair, Jerry Johnston, Key Chair and Ingrid Liepa, Canadian Olympian 1994 and 1998 (speed skating) and Mayor Jim Ogilvie. Corporate sponsors and funding partners were acknowledged: Air Canada Jazz; Global BC; Telus; BC Lottery Corporation and their Sportsfunder suite of tickets; Province of BC through Ministry of Tourism, Sport and Arts, as well the cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley.
The ribbon cutting followed the speakers to mark the official opening of the office. Jean McTeer (1980 Director of Opening Ceremonies) and Jack Ratcliffe (1980 Director of Administration) cut the ribbon. Refreshments and the "Meet and Greet" social followed, the warm fall day making the outdoor setting a pleasant time for everyone.
Blarchmont School is now open as the Office for the Winter Games, and volunteers are essential to the success of the Games. Kevin Paterson is Director of Volunteers; Kathy Klein, Accommodation; Jody Burk, Administration; Joanne Kitt, Ceremonies; Bruce Mollison, Communications; Collin Johnston, Food Services; Maria Kohlman, Friends of the Games; Aileen Boyd, Medical Services; Promotions (vacant); Protocol, Desiree McKay; Kevin Paterson, Registration and Results; Stu Deeks, Security; Lorinda Nelson, Special Events; John Boucher, Sport; Jim Wavercan, Transportation; Susan Campbell, Souvenirs.
The Games will be held February 21 24, with 2,600 athletes, coaches and official expected to compete in 27 events. Volunteers can drop into the Blarchmont Office or contact directors for further information.
