The Lakeshore Regional Wellness Center’s journey from vision to reality received a major boost this weekend, as a community talent show surpassed fundraising expectations. The event, which took place in Ashern, Manitoba, was hailed as an overwhelming success by Tyler Geisler, a board member with the Lakeshore Regional Wellness Commission.
“Honestly, it was an overwhelming success,” said Geisler, reflecting on the turnout and the overall atmosphere.
“You rely on so many external factors, like sponsorship, contestants, and the community coming out. But once again, it shows that the community comes together, and we got to our $20,000 goal.”
The talent show featured an array of local performers, from musicians to instrumentalists and singers. Geisler emphasized the impact the event had on the community, with “the house packed all night,” making for an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Courtny Granberg came away with 1st place in the talent show. Granberg a grade 7/8 teacher in Eriksdale, Manitoba, chose to sing “Valerie”, and she blew everyone including the judges away. Granberg shared how she felt winning.
“I feel amazing about winning. I really wasn’t expecting it. I thought there were a lot of really talented performers there, so it felt really great to be recognized.”
Charlee Holm a 13-year-old girl from Lundar, Manitoba took second place with Dolly Parton’s 9-5. Granberg spoke about Holm saying.
“Charlie is a Grade 8 student at Erikdale school and I teach her math. She’s a wonderful student to have in the class. Bright and very kind to everyone. I hadn’t had the chance to hear her sing. So, it was really cool to just see her light up that stage and do such an amazing job.”
Vince Anderson took third place.
CFRY Most Promising Performer went to 16-year-old Iris Thorkelson, who played a song on the piano and captivated the audience with her quiet singer song writer vibe.
The funds raised will go towards completing the Lakeshore Regional Wellness Center, a project that has been in the works since 2018. Initially, the Ashern Curling Club building, which had fallen into disuse, was repurposed for the Wellness Center. Geisler explained that the building was a perfect candidate for renovation due to its size and location, as well as the growing need for accessible health and wellness facilities in rural areas.
“Our goal was to create a space where people could focus on their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Living in Canada, especially in smaller communities, it can be difficult to stay active during the colder months, so this facility will be a huge benefit.”
The Wellness Center is designed to serve not just Ashern, but the surrounding communities as well. Geisler emphasized the importance of the regional approach, noting that people from areas like Lundar, St. Laurent, and Fairford also rely on Ashern for services and shopping. By naming it the Lakeshore Regional Wellness Center, the commission hopes to create a more inclusive space for everyone in the region.
Construction on the building is nearly complete, with plans to add exercise equipment, a gymnasium, and even a track. The center’s grand opening is set for June 1st, 2025, but a soft opening will take place before then.
“We’re just really proud of everyone who helped. It’s been a long road, but the support we’ve received has been incredible, and we’re excited to see where this goes.”
To learn more about the Lakeview Regional Wellness Commission head to their Facebook page
A packed house for the Talent show
Iris Thorkelson CFRY Most Promising Performer winner on the piano
Ashern Daycare took to the stage, with “Girl on Fire”
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