100 Mile House mayor fights off tears as he gives a heartfelt thank you to Kamloops | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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100 Mile House mayor fights off tears as he gives a heartfelt thank you to Kamloops

100 Mile House Mayor Mitch Campsall delivers an emotional speech at the WildHeart Tailgate Party and Fundraiser in Kamloops, Friday, July 21, 2017.

KAMLOOPS - Mitch Campsall warned the crowd he may get emotional as he grabbed the microphone during the WildHeart Tailgate Party and Fundraiser at Sahali Mall this afternoon, July 21.

The mayor of 100 Mile House then held back tears and had to take a few moments to gather himself as he made his speech.

“Forestry came running into my office on Sunday at 8:45,” Campsall said before taking another moment to gather himself. “At 8:47 I had to sign an order that no mayor wants to do.”

“Forty-five minutes later every door had been knocked on by our search and rescue team. An hour and a half later the town was empty. That’s the kind of community I live in. A community that cares.”

Campsall went on to point out that while firefighters have been receiving praise, and deservedly so, loggers have been working just as hard and been in just as much danger. He also wanted to commend the staff at the municipal office in 100 Mile House, as even in the face of an evacuation order, they refused to go until they had done all they could.

Then Campsall took the time to thank all the volunteers who have been helping his constituents.

“Kamloops, you are incredible.... best city ever,” he said.

Before leaving the stage Campsall had a message of hope for 100 Mile House residents.

“I can’t tell you when we are going home, but the light is as bright as it has ever been,” he said. “Be prepared because we’re coming home guys. We’re coming home soon.”

The fundraising event was hosted by Arrow Transport. Vice president Tim Bell said on Monday morning he decided it was time to use his connections to start raising money for wildfire victims.

After just 10 phone calls they had raised $250,000 in corporate donations and put into motion the plans for a benefit concert.

“We arranged three bands to show up and donate their time,” Bell said. “And along with private donations we are now up to over $300,000 raised.”

The non-corporate donations have been made through the Red Cross and total over $50,000.


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