A drone show, set to cap off a full day of Canada Day festivities in Vernon, was mere minutes away from getting started when disaster struck.
"Right when we were about to start, some folks on e-scooters blasted past our security lines," said Mayla Janzen, who is the organizer of the Vernon Okanagan Inspired Community Events (VOICE) Society. "They ran over an antenna, which was required for the show."
Despite the best efforts of all to repair the antenna, the damage was too severe, and the show had to be cancelled.
"It was dark and we had bodies everywhere but unfortunately, some people didn't listen and didn't obey security and they ran over a delicate antenna."
Janzen said the society is "devastated," as they look for steps forward to try and collaborate again with the city. However, despite noting that a few folks were upset, the feedback from the whole day was "immensely positive."
"We had so many people thank us for the work we did in the community, and a lot of people told us how much fun they had at the event despite the rain," Janzen said. "I think, all and all, we are onto something good here and we have the support of the community. Sometimes things happen."