NEWS UPDATE!!!

As 2004 draws to a close, the Creston Valley Aquatic Society now has more than $90,000 in cash and pledges on hand to commit to the construction of an indoor aquatic centre for Creston. In addition, the Regional District of Central Kootenay is currently preparing an application for $2 million in federal/provincial infrastructure  grants. John Les, Minister of Small Business and Economic Development, who oversees BC's infrastructure grant program, as well as Premier Gordon Campbell are both keen supporters of Creston's aquatic facility.  

The Aquatic Society is presently looking at a $3.2 million facility, and hopes to be able to find funding for the construction of the project without going to a referendum to ask taxpayers to increase their taxes. However, it is important to show officials that the community is backing the project, and this is why the Aquatic Society recently organized a pledge drive, which has raised more than $43,000 to date. Cash for money pledged does not have to be submitted until the $2 million infrastructure grant has been approved. 

Dr. Griffioen championed the drive by pledging $5,000, while the staff at Erickson has pledged $1,300 and the staff at the Creston Education Centre pledged $1,200. Pledge sheets can be picked up at Audio Video Unlimited, Sue's Clothelines, Creston PhysioWorks, and the CV Advance. Once completed, the forms must be returned to the businesses where they will be collected by an Aquatic Society member. 

In addition to the pledge drive, the Aquatic Society recently completed a raffle ticket sale at Overwaitea Foods that raised $5,000, and the Glad Tidings Pentacostal Church donated $500 as part of its 75th anniversary celebration. 

Then, on Jan. 22, the fundraising continues with the third annual "Grand Night" celebration to be held at the Creston and District Community Complex, featuring a cocktail hour with appetizers by Annette's Delicate Essen, a main course by Munro's, dessert by the Creston Valley Bakery, and live music. Sues Clothesline will donate $15 from each tuxedo rented for the event. This year, tickets will be available for 150 couples, triple the number of last year's 50! So, come on out and have a good time, while supporting Creston's future Aquatic Centre.

Through its pledge drive and fund-raising activities, the Aquatic Society hopes to raise the community share of $1 million in local and corporate support for the capital cost of the project. Then all that will need to be covered are the operating costs of the facility, which would amount to approximately a $200,000 increase over the current Rec Centre budget. This amounts to less per family than would have been spent in PST prior to the reduction from 7.5% to 7%, or approximately $80 per year. 

Public opinion seems to have changed over the last ten years, however, with many Creston area seniors and others now feeling that a year-round indoor aquatic facility would not only be directly beneficial for their children and grandchildren, but would also help to attract and keep professionals such as doctors and nurses in the area to service the basic needs of the Creston community. 

The Society will be holding public forums to get community feedback on the various options. The first will be on Wed. Jan. 12 from 7-9 pm at the West Creston Community Hall. Bring your questions and ideas to share with the local Regional Director and members of the Aquatic Society!

WHO ARE WE?

Established in 1986, The Creston Valley Aquatic Society is a group of local citizens interested in pursuing the construction of an indoor aquatic center at the site of the present pool next to the Rec Centre. The society believes that a facility like this would serve as a wonderful place for Creston and area citizens to exercise, socialize and improve their overall health and well-being. If you are interested in helping out or making a donation, contact us. New members are always welcome.

Bright, Modern Indoor Pool --Tumbler Ridge, BC

An indoor aquatic facility would serve a population of approximately 15,000 from Creston and surrounding communities. It would be utilized year-round, providing citizens with recreational, athletic, fitness, rehabilitative, educational, social and employment opportunities.

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and was last updated on January 06, 2005 .

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