As it always is when it comes to supporting a good cause, the people of Dauphin were out in full force late last month.
On June 27, Westman Communications Group (WCG) hosted a charity barbecue, all proceeds going to the Watson Art Centre. While hotdogs and smokies were served free of charge, $5376.70 was donated. WCG then matched that total, bringing the total amount raised to $10,753.40.
"We certainly appreciate WCG's support and the entire community," said Cam Bennet. "So many people came out to donate and we all had a great time. We had some live entertainment as well, it was a fantastic afternoon."
The money raised will be going towards a heat pump. A heat pump keeps things cool when it's hot outside by removing unwanted heat and pumping it outdoors. Cam says they have now raised about $70,000 towards the heat pump which will cost roughly $100,000 plus applicable taxes.
That means when the heat pump is installed, Bennet says the Watson Art Centre will be much cooler and he's excited about the opportunity for more people to visit the facility 12 months a year.
"It's very exciting to know that in the near future, we will be able to be open for weddings and other events," said Bennet. "The temperature will be more enjoyable for all."
The facility is a busy place these days. While they are closed to the public, that doesn't mean the action inside the building has stopped. They are putting in new flooring and Bennet has a pretty exciting development when it comes to that.
"We are going to be opening to the public on Wednesday," ended Bennet. "So if folks want to come by and see the new flooring, they're more than welcome. The flooring looks fantastic, it brightens up the space."