The Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) recently awarded $32,470 to the Blaine Lake Community Fund-Raising Organization to update the Blaine Lake Skating Rink and help reduce its operating costs.
Prior to the Oct. 1, 2010 grant deadline, the Blaine Lake Community Fund-Raising Organization applied to the fund for the grant, a partial contribution toward retrofitting the Blaine Lake Skating Rink by installing Low-E Foil ceiling insulation and energy-efficient lighting. Having renovated the Blaine Lake Curling Rink one year ago, the community believed that by applying the same efforts towards the skating rink, the improvements would again prove to be energy efficient and extend the life of the Blaine Lake Skating Rink.
"The Blaine Lake Rink is a great example of a project that improves community strength and vitality," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Bill Hutchinson said at the Blaine Lake site. "I'm pleased that the Community Vitality Program can help organizations, such as Blaine Lake Community Fund-Raising Organization, improve their facilities. Together, we are building a vibrant, sustainable and stronger Saskatchewan. It reinforces my belief that volunteers are the backbone of all small town communities in Saskatchewan."
"We are pleased to contribute to Blaine Lake's community project," says Tracey Mann, executive director of the Community Initiatives Fund.
"This effort exemplifies how the Small Capital Projects component of this program can help address the needs of residents. And retrofitting their skating rink to update the facility and reduce energy costs clearly demonstrates partnership and a dedication to community betterment."
Darlene Bessey, chair of the CIF board, explained that the Community Vitality Program offered by Community Initiatives Fund, is designed to respond to community interest and priorities.
"The CIF is a special purpose fund created through the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporations Act and accountable to the Ministry of Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport. Our programs are structured as grants that help support Saskatchewan community projects," explained Bessey. "The CIF was created by the Saskatchewan government to ensure Saskatchewan communities benefit from a portion of the Moose Jaw and Regina casino profits. The program is tailored to help sustain the economic, social and cultural integrity of Saskatchewan communities."
There are two components of the Community Vitality Program: Small Capital Projects which may involve construction or physical improvement of a sports/recreational facility; and the Community Pride Projects and Events such as centennial celebrations and festivals. Last fall, more that $2.2 million in community grants was distributed through the first offering of the program.
Mike Linsley, Chair of Blaine Lake Community Fund-Raising Organization, explained how the installation of a low-e foil ceiling, energy efficient lighting and a new insulated overhead door in the curling rink last year has produced positive feedback on the improved quality of the ice surface.
"We anticipate significant saving on our heating and electrical bills on the curling rink for the season," commented Linsley. "There is a natural ice surface in the skating rink and the low-e ceiling will allow us to begin making ice earlier in the season and keep our ice further into the spring. The installation of the energy efficient lights will reduce the operation cost of lighting."
Estimated cost for the project is $65,106.10 with the project scheduled to commence in the spring of 2012 and take approximately three weeks for completion. This pro-active initiative will not only save heating /electrical costs but will also extend the life of the Blaine Lake Skating Rink.
The BLCFR owns and operates community facilities in Blaine Lake, and works in tandem with the BLCA to enhance the quality of life for residents of Blaine Lake and surrounding area. The BLCFR is a charitable, non-profit entity that works at arms-length from the Town and Municipality.
We recognize and support the work of non-profit organizations to benefit communities and we recognize that volunteers are the heart of every community, concluded Bessey.
"On behalf of the BLCA/BLCFR, I would like to thank the Community Initiatives Fund, Government of Saskatchewan, Town of Blaine Lake, RM of Blaine Lake and the community and its volunteers for its support of these projects," concluded Linsley.
Before leaving the community, Honourable Bill Hutchinson requested a tour of the curling rink to view its recent renovations.
To find out more about how your community organization can benefit from Community Initiative Fund program visit www.cifsask.org or call 306-545-7137.
