THUNDER BAY - A storied past is yielding an optimistic future for the Current River community.
The North End Community Centre celebrated its 50th year on Saturday, and the celebration was the best turnout Barb Kukko had ever seen.
“I couldn’t be happier,” said the president of the centre.
The celebration was held in coordination with Soccerfest, and Kukko estimates that approximately 1000 people came through the centre on Saturday to enjoy the various festivities.
“We have a very vibrant soccer community in the north end, and all around the city,” said Coun. Andrew Foulds who represents Current River.
In total, over 400 kids were signed up for Soccerfest.
“[Soccerfest] is kind of a culmination of a great season,” Foulds said.
The soccer was just one of the kid-friendly activities held that attracted so many people. A dunk tank, water-balloon fights, and a blow-up castle were all apart of a fun-filled day.
“Community centres matter,” said Foulds. “The fact that this has been so vibrant for 50 years is just a testament to the volunteers. It’s a testament to their commitment to the neighbourhood.”
Foulds said the start to the next 50 years is going extremely well. The centre has a newly constructed basketball and volleyball court ready for the summer, and are putting in a splash pad which will be unveiled on Canada Day.
“I have three children myself, and I know I’ll be here when it’s plus-30 to cool down in that splash pad,” Foulds said.
While the future of the centre looks just as promising as the 50 years that preceded it, president Kukko said she was just trying to live in the moment.
“We had a day that I’m going to remember forever.” Kukko said.
