Livingstone School, Pincher Creek Golf Course, Pincher Cowley Roaring Lions, and Piikani Nation recipients of Lottery funds

Lions Club Member Earle Johnson with MLA Bridget Pastoor

Toni Lucas

Lethbridge East Constituency ML) Bridget Pastoor visited Pincher Creek and area on Thursday, June 26.  Pastoor said she was charged with the happy task of giving out cheques from the Alberta Lottery Foundation. "As an MLA it's a treasure to be able to give out these cheques, because I know that this money will be stretched to $1.50 for every dollar that we've added. This is probably the best use of taxpayers money that I can possibly hand out." She presented cheques to Livingstone School, Pincher Creek Golf Course, Pincher Cowley Roaring Lions, and Piikani Nation.

Lion Earl Johnson said that the money was truly appreciated, and will be used by a younger generation. "It all goes to playground expansion at the Castle River Rodeo Grounds," explained Johnson, who is proud that Sharon Melvin, a six year old started the ball rolling by proposing to her grandmother, who is a campground host, that they could use the money from pop cans and bottles that get left behind to get new playground equipment. Between pop cans and silver collection breakfasts the group has earned over $7,000.

Golf Club Director Leroy Goodreau with MLA Bridget Pastoor

Pincher Creek Golf Club Director Leroy Goodreau said he is excited to proceed with renovations of a building that will offer washrooms to players and staff, a staff room, and a concession during tournaments. "The shell is up, but this will help us to complete the interior."

Cheques handed out in the area by MLA Pastoor include:

• Livingstone School - $4,375 for a sign that has been installed in front of the school.
• Pincher Creek Golf Club Society - $17,139 for facility improvements.
• Cowley Lions Club - $23,837 for campground playground improvements.
• Piikani Nation - $15,000 approximately for development of an interactive application.