THE FUNDRAISERS presented by McCutcheon Insurance. We are featuring the community fundraising efforts by the community to go towards a new arena… The Strathcona Paper Centre.
Let’s take a look back to the early 2000’s in Napanee. The hockey rink is bustling and so jam packed, that locals are having to look for ice time in neighbouring rinks.
Under discussion with the recreation director at the time and council, the idea of a new rink snowballed from there. There was a community fundraising component that was required in getting town council to agree to build a new rink for the community.
The committee then formed, and was made up by Pam McCraken, Mike Derry, Tammy Giles, Andy McGarvey, Mike Airhart, Maria Brazda, Richard Dickson, Murray McCraken, Ed McGrath, Robert Paul, Richard Pollard, Laurie van Straalen, Peter Wagar, Gary Hodson, Kevin Haill, and Tina Michaud. They were given a goal to raise $425,000.
Many different fundraisers from auctions to pancake breakfasts took place. Bricks were sold for $100 each, and seats were available for purchase too. There was also a lot or cooperate sponsorships and donations made by local organizations.
By opening day, over $1.27 million was raised by the group.
To this day, the SPC is well used and loved, hosting many national and local events, bringing lots of visitors to the region..
Listen to our full interview with Pam McCraken here:
Written by Emily Chatwood