After a week of hunkering down from this cold snap, it might be a good idea to rejoin society and take in some entertainment.
On Friday, Feb. 7 the Cremona School Enhancement Society is hosting Comedy and Cocktails at the Heritage Centre east of Cremona. Built in 1903, the historic homestead has been fully restored and is just 28 minutes north of Cochrane up Highway 22.
Headliner comedian Jebb Fink will be joined by fellow comedian Adam Blank. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door and are available at Cremona School, Cremona Credit Union and through the society. The event will include a cash bar, raffles, auctions and appetizers.
This is the first year the society will be offering comedians and the first year the annual fundraising event will be held at the newly renovated centre.
“We live in an amazing and supportive community in Water Valley and Cremona, and our parents and locals support so many initiatives every year,” said society member Julie Burkitt.
“We hope to host a classy, fun evening, to not only raise money, but like all our past events, for parents and locals to have a fun night out they wouldn't have to drive all the way to the city for.”
The society has played an integral role in the community since 2011. Consisting of eight full-time members and volunteers, all of whom have children that attend Cremona School, the tight group raises funds for the K-12 school and works to enhance the experience of students and staff. The society is a registered charity and was the impetus behind the school’s new playground in 2016.
They have also applied for grants for various activities for the school including busing to swimming lessons, ski trips, funded theatrical programs and guest speakers. Teachers have approached the society with funding requests and presently they’re raising funds for a new protective floor for the school gym, updates to the school track and new track and field equipment.
“We wish there was infinite funding for our school and enhancements in our school system, that is not the reality,” said Burkitt.
“Sometimes, equipment or programs that are desirable to enhance learning are out of budgetary reach for the school. Our society helps to remove some fiscal barriers for teachers and students.” She said being a registered charity helps open doors because they’re able to apply for grants.
Burkitt explains that organizations like the society are essential because rural education has fallen victim to relentless cutbacks that affect the number of teachers, staff and programs schools can offer.
“These cuts in educational funding require the schools to put their monies in other places to ensure rural students have a competitive edge after high school.”
She says the “extras” come from fundraising efforts on the part of school councils, individual schools and groups.
“Up to date technologies, trades programs, and access to arts will ensure our students march strong and confidently from the school halls and conquer in their chosen path.”
