Two Dauphin businesses stepped up in a big way on Thursday afternoon.
Reit-Syd Equipment and Bourgault Industries LTD donated $5,000 each to the Countryfest Community Cinema in Dauphin. Reit-Syd had already chipped in $2,500 earlier this month, doubling down on their commitment to local entertainment.
Don Tarrant is the owner and general manager of Reit-Syd Equipment.
"The cinema is very important for our community and the surrounding areas," said Tarrant. "It's a place for the kids and adults. It's a great facility. It cost a lot then, but it could be two or three times that now. Just keeping it going makes sense."
Andrew Vercaigne is with Bourgault Industries.
"Bourgault, in partnership with Reit-Syd Equipment, this is a valuable community project to upkeep," said Vercaigne. "Bourgault has been prominent in Dauphin for two decades, so we want to keep that going."
Ron Hedley is the chairman of the Countryfest Community Cinema's board.
"It's so awesome. These guys have been so supportive of us," said Hedley. "We are so appreciative."
The CCC has been raising funds for months. As of publishing, they've raised more than $41,000 thru their GoFundMe campaign. Another $15,000 to $20,000 is to come in through corporate sponsors.
Toss in the $10,000 donation on Thursday, and the funds continue adding up.
Ron says one of the CCC's board of directors said it best.
"There's no guarantee of success right now," ended Hedley. "Without the support that we've had, there wouldn't be a theatre. The future is bright, it's going to be good."
For showtimes and everything, Countryfest Community Cinema, head here.
