Story:T he Elkhorn District Community Centre, aka “the rink” is a busy place all year round. In the winter months you have hockey and figure skating which starts early and the season is extended because of its artificial ice facilities. During the rest of the year it’s a popular place for socials, school graduations, family reunions, meetings and summer hockey schools to name a few of the events.

The driving force behind its operations is many area volunteers. The revenue that the rink makes plus donations from local and area businesses covers most of the costs, however, there comes a time when a major sum of money is needed to repair or replace part of the building infrastructure.

Recently, the board of the centre, headed by Keith Orr, received a federal government grant presented by local MP, Merv Tweed (Brandon/Souris) for $34,333. The money is part of the Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program, a major job creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

To a large crowd of school students and village residents, Village CAO Garth Mitchell welcomed everyone and introduced Mr. Tweed. Tweed expressed his gratitude for the large turnout and shared a few memories of his time as a hockey player and coach of the Medora team when they played here.

He went on to add, “This grant will continue to make the community rink a place that is safe, promotes sports opportunities and fitness, training and learning and in general improve the quality of life to make the community a better place. Communities of all sizes deserve the opportunity to improve their infrastructure. Elkhorn has recognized the need to upgrade their recreation facilities and I’m proud to be a small part in their fundraising progress.”

Board President Keith Orr, thanked Mr. Tweed for the donation that is equal to one third of the cost to replace the ice rink wallboards and get a new condenser for the ice plant.

“We really appreciate the contribution that the federal government has made to our rink upgrade project,” said Orr. “This type of donation makes projects in small communities possible. This part of the project will complete phase five of our rink upgrade and help keep our facility vibrant for many years to come.”

Mr. Mitchell ended the program by thanking everyone for coming out, and following this light refreshments were served. Mr. Tweed spent some time over coffee visiting and talking with community members.

Mr. Mitchell said afterwards, “This was a very important announcement for the community. The arena is one of the key facilities in our community and these important upgrades will extend the life of our facility. This federal government money is a great help to the community and will be a positive start to fundraising.”