The Stettler Community Hall was packed with people and laughter on Saturday, Dec. 12, as the community gathered together to support its Skate Park.
The annual fundraiser consists of a dinner followed by entertainment by YukYuks and dancing. There wasn't an empty seat in the house, unless it was when people returned to the buffet to enjoy a second helping of the catered meal. This year, the Skatepark Association raised roughly $14,000, which will go toward its $100,000 Phase 3 plans for the skatepark site.
According to association vice-president Heidi Fraser, the association has about $65,000 towards its goal, once the newly raised money is considered. They also purchased solar lights for the skatepark site, which has been very popular since its opening last year.
"Numbers were slightly down this year, but we also decreased the number of tickets available," Heidi said. "We saw a change in who came. In the past, businesses would bring their employees for a Christmas party, but this year we saw an increase in people coming as individuals or with friends."
She said the split was about 50/50.