When people believe in something, dreams can come true. Look at the recent Vancouver Olympics for proof.

 Many people in this region also have a dream. They dream of someday seeing the state-of-the-art Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre opening its doors for the entire community to use and enjoy, a facility that will benefit all ages for this generation and into the future.

 Is this a major undertaking? For sure, but this dream can become reality if we believe it can. Will it be expensive? At an estimated $42 million, it will be. Is it a good investment? Without a doubt. Can it be done? Absolutely, but only if the entire community shares the vision.

 Consultants commissioned by the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre Society recently reported that a brand-new pool, library and a two-pad ice-rink complex would cost in the neighbourhood of $42 million. However, the potential future benefits to this region from such a facility in terms of economic activity and public health far outweigh the expense.

 But in order for this dream to come true, much work must be done. Such a facility will only be realized if this entire community buys into it and we mean buy into in a big way. Even those who cannot afford to make a personal donation toward the cause, can support the effort by lending help, let's say, in fundraising efforts or, equally as important, by just giving their moral support to those who have a vision.

 It is important to look beyond the cost of this facility and consider the implications this facility has to this region of the South Shore including employee recruitment and retention especially now as rural communities are suffering from the exodus of young people to larger centres where they can find not only employment opportunities but also an active lifestyle. In order to compete then, this facility is a key investment in the future economic stability of this region.

 Beyond its economic implications, such a facility will greatly improve the health and wellness of the people who live here and it will benefit people of all ages. This is especially important for a community with an aging population.

 Additionally, the new centre will not only replace aging facilities such as the existing library, but it will also compliment existing facilities such as the new, indoor fieldhouse complex and other arenas. Furthermore, the proposed complex will provide new opportunities through amenities such as an indoor aquatic centre, opportunities that have not previously been available in this region.

 Presently, the project is at an important juncture. With Ottawa, the province, Bridgewater and the Municipality of Lunenburg chipping in a combined total of just over $30 million, the proponents must decide whether to boost fundraising efforts or postpone some things until later when more money is available. Arguments can be made for or against any component of the proposed complex, but the final project - in whatever form the society and councils determine is appropriate - must have the support of the entire community. And this support is vital to making this dream a reality.

 During the next few months some tough decisions will have to be made to allow this project to move forward and funds will have to be raised. Support for the lifestyle centre really isn't about support for a pool, or a new library, or two ice surfaces. It's about support for the future prosperity and wellness of the entire region.

 At this point, it is clear that this project is going to happen so let us dream of the best facility possible and then let us come together as a community to make it happen. Dreams can come true if we believe.

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 - Vernon Oickle

posted on 03/23/10