A community member wanted it.
They're getting it. 14 teams of four are locked in. The Lakeshore Regional Wellness Centre in Ashern hosts a speed puzzle competition this Saturday. All 14 teams receive the same 500-piece puzzle, and the first team to finish wins.
Speed, smarts, and efficiency, that's what is needed to be crowned the champion.
Lori Emilson is running the event.
"We've got some people who are pretty strong at jigsaw puzzles; they take it seriously," said Emilson. "I hope no fists come out when they're having to work together with their team. I know some people are pretty protective of how they solve puzzles. I think it should be fine, it's going to be a great event."
This event is the first of its kind in the area in recent years. The entry fee was $20 per team, totalling $280. The proceeds are going towards kitchen renovations at the centre. The bar will also be open during the event to raise additional funds. The current kitchen is dated and needs some upgrades.
"If people are wondering about supporting the Wellness Centre, we always have fundraisers going on," added Emilson. "Even if you just want to stop by, that goes a long way to ensuring it's an enjoyable place for everyone."
The Wellness Centre, which served as a curling rink for decades, officially cut the ribbon for the grand opening in September. The facility features shuffleboard, a full gym, a studio upstairs, and pickleball, which is becoming a hot commodity in the community.
A virtual golf simulator is also in the works. Memberships are available for different ages. There are also daily drop-in fees. Seniors and those aged 18 and under are $5, and adults are $10.
In addition to their speed puzzle competition on Saturday, there will be other fundraisers with proceeds going to the centre's kitchen upgrades. They'll be holding music bingo next month. Some gardening and foraging workshops are coming up.
In June, Ashern is attempting to become the most active community through ParticipACTION. ParticipACTION is a Canadian non-profit charitable organization that has been encouraging people to get healthy by getting active since 1971.
They'll be hosting a youth pickleball tournament, yoga in the park, and a free day at the centre, to name a few. It's safe to say that some great things are happening in Ashern and the surrounding communities.
Lori is proud to be a part of the Ashern Magic.
"It's really fun to see people coming together," ended Emilson. "We're really trying to work towards multi-generational crowds. We're attempting to find things that can reach all ages."
The Great Ashern Duck Race also returns this spring. For more of what's going on at the Lakeshore Wellness Centre, head here.
