The last time you were here, did you happen to notice our new tables and chairs? We finally have gotten to the point where we have added a bit of furniture to those spaces that were designed with gathering in mind. In the arena lobby, we have a number of stools that allow you to watch what’s going on at the ice surface level or gather around one of the high-top tables. Out in the main lobby at both the east and west side, we have a few tables and comfortable chairs where you can park after a grueling swim or workout and enjoy a coffee or a muffin.
Looking down the road a bit, and somewhat related, will be an upgraded public wireless system that will provide coverage around the entire building so you can sit and have your coffee or muffin and see if you missed any valuable emails during your grueling swim or workout. The intent is to also have coverage into the arenas for larger events such as the Creston Valley Home and Garden Show and Creston Valley Fall Fair, not to mention the ability for mom to take a photo of little Billy in novice hockey and immediately send it to Grandma and Grandpa in Oxbow, Sask. Currently, we have some coverage in specific areas but in other parts of the facility you still have to stand on one leg with a tinfoil hat and a coat hanger, which should hopefully be alleviated over the next few months.
If you were around a couple weekends ago, you would have seen a busy place with the women’s Valentine Bonspiel taking place, as well as the Art Trot silent auction for the Therapeutic Riding Program, and various other hockey, fitness and aquatic activities. I understand the Art Trot event did great as a fundraiser (there were some fantastic pieces of art there) and yet another successful Valentine Bonspiel took place despite the fact I never won the 50/50 draw but am learning to cope with the loss. Coming up Feb. 28-March 3 is the men’s side of the curling equation in the form of the Butterfly Bonspiel at the Creston Curling Centre in the community complex. If you have a bit of time, come on down and watch some pretty skilled players from all over compete in the game that had its origins in the 16th century.
Keep your eyes peeled for the spring leisure guide; it is due to hit the Internet the end of February, with print copies here within a week or two. As usual, there are some pretty cool programs and courses happening as well as lots of information on our drop-in programming, both dryland and aquatic. We are over the hump and heading for spring!
Neil Ostafichuk is the recreation supervisor at the Creston and District Community Complex.