Over the top

Arena fundraising tops $1.5 million

The pleased and relieved members of the fundraising committee: (L-R) Nancy Parks, Dennis Carnrike, Betty Calnan, Nancy Baldwin, Doug Robinson, Councillor Barry Turpin, Councillor Jim Dunlop, Arenas Manager Andrew Morton, Eleanor MacDonald and Recreation, Parks and Culture chief Barry Braun and Councillor Keith MacDonald.

It was a goal some thought unachievable. But last week the fundraising committee for the new Wellington and District Community Centre had some great news. This community had raised $1.52 million— surpassing the target of $1.5 million. Once again the people of Prince Edward County had shown their generosity and determination to create an important new recreation and event facility.

The fundraising campaign will continue for the foreseeable future. About half the funds raised have been pledged over time. Yet the bills have been paid. So the County is incurring carrying costs until the pledges are fully collected.

This nudges the real target a bit higher. It also gives those who felt they missed out on purchasing seats, bricks or a place on the recognition wall, a second chance.

Any pledges made until Feb. 20 will still be eligible to be recognized on the stunning marble tablets at the entrance to the building.