ARCOLA - As kids held onto their parents or grandparents’ hands, wearing helmets on and carrying a cup of paint, they stepped onto the ice at the Arcola Rink March 27 to paint whatever they wanted.
The kids were excited to be able to paint rainbows, colourful sunshine and more, and to have their name written on the ice where some of their favourite hockey players take to the ice.
Arcola recreation director Vanessa Dahl said this is the season-ending event for the ice surface and they try to make it a fun time for the kids.
It was also a dedication to the new Prairie Place Kitchen, which received a much-needed facelift.
The kitchen was opened for anyone who wanted a burger or fries. Approximately 50 people attended the opening.
The Cornerstone Credit Union (CCU) and Harry Laurent were also part of the celebration.
Chantel Bayerle from the CCU is the financial service advisor. She said the bank makes $100,000 in donations in a year. These donations or grants need to be applied for.
Once all the applications are in, they are brought before a board, who then decides on which organizations will receive funds and the amount.
The Arcola Prairie Place Complex received $25,000 for upgrades to the building.
Harry Laurent Construction built all the kitchen cupboards and donated them to the rink’s kitchen.
Laurent and his wife Debra are longtime residents of Arcola, and they have been involved in many projects over the years, including the building of the arena and the new building at the rodeo grounds.
“Thank you to all for being here today as we celebrate the renovation of our Prairie Place Kitchen, a project that would not have been possible without the generosity of some incredible supporters who made this renovation a reality,” said Dahl.
Dahl first thanked the CCU for its incredible grant of $25,000, saying this generosity has made a lasting impact on the community, allowing them to improve this space, while continue serving meals and making memories for years to come.
“We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to Harry and Debra Laurent for their generous donation of the cabinets,” said Dahl. “Your kindness and support have truly helped bring this renovation to life, making our kitchen more functional and welcoming for everyone who walks through these doors.”
Dahl went on to say that this project is a testament to the power of community and the incredible things that can be achieved when people come together.
She invited everyone to stay and enjoy the food from the kitchen for one last time before the season ends, and to try the deep-fried funnel cake, Oreos and Mars Bars.
