Dear Editor
As we prepare to leave North Battleford for home in Ontario, after having the absolute pleasure of building the Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts, we find ourselves with the difficult task of saying goodbye.
We have many fond memories of our time here in the Battlefords, but what stands out more than anything is the wonderful hospitality this community evokes. It would literally take us days to thank you all individually.
We have enjoyed the many festivities the Battlefords has to offer. There are a few standouts of course, starting with Those Were the Days at the WDM, Bridgefest, chuckwagon races, the rodeo, and dinner with the Boston Bruins alumni. We found ourselves having to venture only twice to Saskatoon, as there was always something happening in your community.
In September 2011, APM Construction decided it would be a great idea to host a fundraising golf tournament for the CUPlex. When I started out with my fundraising letter, drumming up donations from local businesses, I had no idea of the response I would get. To my delight I was bombarded with gift certificates and prizes for the prize table from literally every business I solicited. It was overwhelming to say the least, and at times I was reduced to tears by the outpouring of generosity.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank each and every one of you for making our Raise the Roof golf fundraiser a success. To those who participated, we hope you will always remember what a terrific day you had. One special donation was of hockey tickets. We spent many evenings the past two winters cheering on the Battleford North Stars. It was also wonderful to be able to invite other hard working trades from the theatre building project to enjoy these exciting games. Everyone should go out and support your local team.
A group of people, who need to be recognized for their never ending kindness, are the staff at your local Home Hardware. They are some of the nicest people we have ever met. Each time we went to their store or called in a construction order we were met with great enthusiasm and extreme gratefulness.
We have also had the opportunity to visit many wonderful areas surrounding the Battlefords, including a Western Road Trip we will not soon forget. What a gorgeous country we live in.
To City staff, Ian, Keith and so many others including members of the Raise the Roof Fundraising committee, you should be commended for all your efforts. You have campaigned for this facility for many years and now it has become a reality. Congratulations to all of you. You know the old saying "If you build it, they will come." Well you did build it and they will come.
A special thank you to the Dekker family, who requested the funeral procession for their matriarch, drive by the theatre last October. It was an absolute honour. We know she would be pleased by the building.
If you are one of the few people who opposed having this facility built, give it a chance. It offers endless possibilities. I am sure once you have attended one amazing performance or watched a nail biting bonspiel, you too will be champions of the CUPlex.
We live in a municipality of half a million people and we do not have anything as grand as the CUPlex.
To all residents of North Battleford who have touched our hearts, we hope we have touched yours. Now get out and enjoy your CUPlex. It is an amazing facility, with something for everyone.
Dave and Carol Brazeau
APM Construction Services
