Aquatic Centre gets big boost on last lap of funding

By Christy Marsters

The Hants Journal/NovaNewsNow.com



An image of Andy Kirk sliding down a waterslide at the Hants Aquatic Centre in complete pool attire -- lifejacket, snorkel, helmet, flippers and water wings -- was an amusing thought brought up during a roast held in his honour at Kings-Edgehill School June 7.

There were plenty of laughs during the evening and the good times just keep on rolling, especially when MLA Chuck Porter presented a surprise donation from the provincial government for $180,000 to Aquatic Centre co-chairs Kevin White and Kirk during the event. This money ensures a completion of the pool house and a reopening of the new pool facility this year.

“It was nice to be able to present this money for the pool so it could open for a second year,” Porter said. “I think the money was a huge relief for Andy because funding for big projects is always challenging.”

The facility is used not only by children, but by parents, grandparents and the local swim team as well, Porter said. “Generating this money certainly had to be done, in my opinion.”

The Hants Aquatic Centre Society has collected $1.5 million in the last two-and-a-half years to support the pool new facility in Windsor with $275,000 being donated by people within the community. The organization aims to generate $1.8 million to support all desired goals for the facility.

Money a determining factor

Kirk says for every dollar the Society raises, two additional dollars are matched through the federal government, but with the contributions collected during the roast event the Society will be able to access all of the federal funds available. “There’s so much we want to do with the facility, but money is the determining factor,” he said.

“You have to show people the worth of your project to get donations,” he added. “The economic development and tourism the pool offers makes it stand out. However, it’s a challenge because there are so many good projects that need assistance.”

The roasting fundraiser generated over $7,500 with an additional $7,200 presented by the Royal Bank. Approximately 100 guests were in attendance.

Reid MacDuff, event organizer, says Andy’s history within Windsor and his connection to the pool make him a perfect candidate to be roasted. “His commitment to the community is impressive.”

Windsor Mayor Anna Allen says the roast was just another example of Andy’s dedication and passion for the Hants Aquatic Centre. “I think he’s very brave for being willing to be roasted,” she said.

As well, “I’d like to thank Andy and everyone who donated to the facility. If you haven’t given anything yet, please do because the facility has done some wonderful things for the community.”