Way back in the 1940s, a group of community members wanted to do something for the people.
That group wanted a venue for people to come together to enjoy. So, in 1947, a one-sheet curling rink was built. Over the years, it was expanded to four sheets. In 2016, the Ashern Curling Club faced the need for major renovations, but with membership on the decline, the upgrades just weren’t feasible.
Two years later, a committee was formed, and now, nine years later, the Lakeshore Wellness Centre has been born.
Tim Cameron is a part of the committee behind the Wellness Centre, which is located inside the former Ashern Curling Club. Renovations are estimated to be over a million dollars and took years to complete, with further work still in progress.
On Saturday, they'll officially cut the ribbon in a Grand Opening ceremony. Tim says community members have been playing pickleball at the facility for a week, and the gym is also operational, among other amenities.
"It's nice to see people smiling and using it," said Cameron. "Some people are using the walking track. It's been really good to see, and we are very happy about it. We want to see it go on for generations to come."
Among the activities inside the Wellness Centre is shuffle curl, and there's a full gym. That gym can host anything from floor hockey to soccer, and anything in between. A virtual golf simulator is also in the works. Upstairs is the Access Credit Union Studio. That's reserved for games, trivia night, and guitar jam. The lower level also boasts a classroom where seminars and birthday parties can be held.
As a part of Saturday's festivities, there will be a craft sale beginning at 10:00 a.m. inside the Wellness Centre and Ashern Centennial Hall. Door prizes to be won include tickets to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Friday, October 17. There's a signed photo of Kyle Connor and memberships.
Already, 40 vendors have signed up. They include everything from honey to jewelry to collectibles, and everything in between.
"You name it. We have a great selection of makers and crafters. Some authors are coming with their books, and some artists will be displaying their work," ended Cameron. "Then we will have the Grand Opening at 1:00 p.m. inside the Wellness Centre with some dignitaries attending. We will cut the ribbon. It'll be exciting to be officially open."
You can purchase memberships for the Wellness Centre. Seniors and those aged 18 and under are $5 daily, and adults are $10. Monthly, quarterly, yearly, and a life membership are also available.
