STOUGHTON - The Stoughton area pulled together for a fundraiser on April 12, held at the Stoughton Curling Rink.
A total of 231 tickets were sold. A meal was prepared and served by Steve and Allison’s Catering Services. It included roast beef, mashed potatoes, an assortment of salads and a selection of desserts.
Stoughton recreation director Kirscen Rulloda said the meal was sponsored by the RM of Tecumseh, for which they are very thankful. Scott Schultz, a former defensive tackle for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, offered his services as the MC.
Once the meal was cleared away it was time for the entertainment, which was sponsored by Lakeview Insurance in Stoughton. Matt Gore, also known as the Ginger Ninja, brought a world of magic and comedy. Gore is an international award-winning magician from Cape Town, South Africa and has been entertaining in Canada since 2017.
“His performances are known for their charm, humour, and ability to engage people of all ages and cultural backgrounds,” said Rulloda.
He has performed all over Saskatchewan, Alberta and in Vancouver. Gore offers three types of shows, including a comedic, interactive stage performance with a closeup walkabout magic; brand-promotion shows for trade shows that are launching products; and events that require an MC.
He has competed in the World Magic Championships twice and holds the title for the Africa Magic Championship.
The fun continued with a live auction with Mason Richaud selling off 26 items with prices ranging from $300 to $2,000, and a silent auction took place with 70 items being offered.
Between ticket sales, a 50/50 draw, bar sales and both auctions, the event raised nearly $60,000. These funds will be shared equally between the curling club, skating rink and the pool board.
The curling club is looking into upgrading its aging ice plant, which has had some minor issues. The goal is to address these issues before they become a major concern.
The Stoughton Pool will use its funds towards maintaining its aging boiler, replacing the liner when needed, covering chemical costs and ensuring seasonal life guard staff. Additionally, it is looking to replace the red bricks surrounding the pool area to keep it safe and accessible.
The skating rink has plans to repair the bleachers and replace damaged boards caused by hockey pucks.
These updates, which include general maintenance, will help them host more tournaments and league hockey games, while making the space more welcoming for the youths and community who want to learn how to skate and play hockey.
The curling board, rink board and swimming pool board all helped organize the event as they were the main beneficiaries. In addition, they had the Stoughton Lions Club, the Town of Stoughton and the Stoughton Community Players, who contributed their time, ideas, supplies and efforts to make the event run smoothly.
They are thankful for all those that helped, sponsored, donated items and who came out to make this a successful evening.
