Nine community groups are looking for votes from East Kootenay Community Credit Union members this weekend, as they compete for funding in the 2012 Community Awards.
The program provides funding to local projects that are deemed most deserving by EKC’s members, who vote by going into the Fernie, Elkford or Sparwood branches this week.
This year $12,500 in awards will be available in each Elk Valley community of Elkford, Fernie, and for the first time, Sparwood.
An additional $12,500 from Sparwood Community Futures will be added to Sparwood with their winner receiving $25,000.
“On behalf of the East Kootenay Community Credit Union, I’d like to thank all the Community Award applicants from throughout the Elk Valley Region,” says Sparwood branch manager Eric Johnstone.
“This program is special because the recipients of the $12,500 awards in each community will be chosen by EKC’s members.”
Elkford branch manager Cindy Hesje added: “All EKC members, including those from Cranbrook, can vote at these three Elk Valley branches.
“We are excited about the difference these community awards make. In addition to financial assistance, EKC can provide information and mentorship and can help to spread the word about inspiring community initiatives, like the many projects proposed by these community award finalists.”
Elkford finalists
• Cast your vote in the Elkford branch until Saturday.
• In-branch displays Friday and Saturday
• Winner will be announced next Wednesday, April 18.
Elkford Preschool Outdoor Play Area
Located in the brand new Elkford Community Centre, we are working very hard to build a safe, accessible and environmentally friendly outdoor play area that would be open for community and playschool use for years to come.
The new outdoor play area would include recycled rubberized surfacing that meets CSA safety standards and one stationary piece of equipment specifically designed for young children.
Mountain Meadows Golf Club Upgrade to the Clubhouse
The 1988 clubhouse is getting lots of use both during the golf season and the off season – but it is in need of a facelift.
We will replace our present rectangular tables with new round tables and replace the chairs; replace the carpeting which is showing much wear; and upgrade the Pro shop to give it a nice, modern appearance.
Elk Valley Minor Hockey Jersey Replacement
Elk Valley Wild represents players aged 11-17 from Elkford and Sparwood and invites players from Fernie
Jerseys last 3–5 years with good care, ours are always washed after each game by a volunteer, but after a few years they rip, numbers and crests fall off, and the jerseys lose their shine.
We hope to replace three home/away sets at $3500 each.
Fernie finalists
• Cast your vote in the Fernie branch until Saturday
• In branch displays Friday and Saturday
• Winner will be announced next Tuesday, April 17
Fernie Lions Club Demolition Derby Relocation
The annual demolition derby has been held since 1973, attracting 5,000 attendees per year, but we need to secure a new site.
We will develop derby grounds, parking, access roads, water supply, announcer’s booth, power, cook shack and fencing.
Indoor Archery Facility and Junior Olympic Program
We will develop an indoor archery centre in the Fernie Elks Hall.
We currently offer Junior Olympic program and a Ladies program, the indoor centre will allow year-round programs and includes installation of proper backstop, lighting and heaters
Fernie Mountain Bike Club Skills Park
The club’s purpose is to encourage safe and responsible cycling to all ages and skill levels - this phase is focused on riders under 7 years.
It will be located next to the future splash park, an exclusive area for parents and children, promoting outdoor participation.
Fernie Pets Society Dog Park
We will build a fenced, year-round, 2.5 acre off-leash park at Fernie Aquatic Centre, promoting responsible pet ownership.
Phase one includes a vinyl-coated chain fence, double gate entries, benches, drinking water area and waste receptacles.
In future we will add an agility/obstacle course, shaded areas, and a small dog area.
Sparwood finalists
Cast your vote in the Sparwood branch until Friday
In branch displays Thursday and Friday
Winner will be announced next Thursday, April 19
Sparwood Lions Club Camp Kitchen and Gazebo
The Lions’ plan is to create a gazebo type structure, 35'×35' steel structure with concrete base and electricity for lighting.
Families could be close to their children at the Water Spray Park or Ball Diamonds and use at no charge.
The gazebo will be prefabricated locally and this structure will provide protection from the weather.
Sparwood Seniors Centre Handicap Entrance
This will make the entrance to the Centre safer and more accessible
The current steep grade is dangerous and the current entrance is dark and narrow, making navigation with a wheelchair or walker difficult.
The proposed work includes creation of an eight foot mudroom and ramps with appropriate handrails, allowing everyone to attend the centre’s daily events, luncheons, teas, etc.
• To view project videos and for more information on EKC’s 2012 Community Awards, visit www.ekccu.com