A file photo shows construction on the DES Indoor Arena.--Submitted File Dominique Hirsch
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
The Dunmore Equestrian Society is blown away by the support shown at their May 4 fundraising event, and are looking toward the rest of the year with excitement.
The event, which featured a dinner, Comedian Joel Jeffrey, as well as auction items, raised approximately $55,000 in a single evening, surpassing previous fundraisers, said Dunmore Equestrian Society president Kelly Creasy.
“We filled that hall and filled it out. And everybody was really supportive. It was. It was fantastic, our best fundraiser ever for sure,” said Creasy. The event was full at 225 people, and the funds will go a long way to support continued work on the indoor arena project, which they hope to have operational by September.
“We thought we would start the year off with a fundraiser to celebrate where we have come so far. We were overwhelmed with the support from both attendees and businesses that donated items for auction and so very grateful for a successful night.” said Dominique Hirsch, business development co-ordinator.
Currently under construction, the envelope of the 275-by-140 foot arena is completed, while the guts of the HVAC, electric and water are being installed to the structure. Needed items, such as bleacher seating, announcer stand, office and pens are soon to follow.
“I’m excited about the possibilities that completion of the new indoor event centre will bring to Medicine Hat, Cypress County and surrounding communities,” said Creasy.
Funds are still needed to finish the building, but the community and community businesses have been very supportive, so the society remains optimistic.
“We still have a ways to go. What’s really positive is that the local business and community are happy to support, but we don’t want to fall short of our goal to provide our youth and families a year-round public facility where they can learn, provide equine therapy programs, and that will be home to all sorts of agriculture shows and competitions.” said Hirsch.
