Money granted

Funds announced for Hector Arena upgrades

The Hector Arena scored some federal money to help with ongoing upgrades.

Central Nova MP Sean Fraser visited the Hector Arena Friday see its enhancements and announce a $30,942 contribution to the Hector Arena Commission Association, through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.

“The Hector Arena reflects this community’s strong sense of pride. Operating on a yearround basis, it plays an important role in promoting balanced, healthy and productive lives. We are happy to have invested in the upgrades to the arena to ensure that it remains a fixture in the community for many years to come.”

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The funding supported a new scoreboard, upgrades to the arena’s plumbing system, and a fresh coat of paint to the roof support system to prevent corrosion.

Since opening its doors in 1972, the Hector Arena has been a focal point in the community, offering various programs such as adult and youth ice hockey, skating lessons and public skating.

The arena also plays host to a number of events, including the annual agricultural exhibition that draws large crowds from across the region and supports local businesses.

Hector Arena Commission Chair David Parker said the ongoing upgrades to the arena were necessary to keep its doors open.

“I want to start by thanking Bob Naylor,” said Parker. “Bob was our long time manager and commissioner on the Hector Arena Commission for two terms. He made it very clear to us in 2010 when it became obvious we would be building a new arena in the county with two ice surfaces that we only had two choices. We could renovate and modernize or get ready to close. He knew what would happen to our smaller rinks if we didn’t bring the up to modern standard.”

Parker said the local community and businesses rallied around the arena and helped it achieve its fundraising goals.

SUEANN MUSICK/THE NEWS The Hector Arena recently received more than $30,000 for upgrades to the building. Here, from the left: David Parker, chair of the Hector Arena Commission, Ron Clarke, arena manager, Jack Ferguson, chair of the Pictou Agricultural Society, and Central...