Friends Of Cypress Hills Park

An Urgent Appeal to the Public The Jasper Cultural & Historical Centre’s roof received severe damage as a result of powerful winds on Sunday, March 14th. The e...xtent of the damage is presently being assessed by Josh Montgomery; however the worst areas have been temporarily covered. In the process it was discovered the remaining roof is also in need of additional repair work to the membrane covering. It is essential to act quickly with repairs as priceless artefacts and documents are at risk we are already experiencing some leakage but at present have it contained. Although it appears insurance will cover much of the damage caused by wind, the repair to the membrane is not covered and will be very costly exact amount yet unknown. This is devastating news to the board, as we have been strategizing the replacement of the entire front and back entrances to the Centre, including the sidewalk from the street to the entrance and the removal of the fire escapes. In short, they are dangerous and no longer meet health and safety codes. In addition, the board is discussing how to incorporate a new door to the front and a ramp and loading area to rear entrance. The Board hopes to complete the work in two years and were investigating quotes when the damage to the roof occurred. It should be noted that this does not include the remaining brick/mortar work to the exterior. In order to meet health & safety and building codes, as well as protect the priceless objects inside, the roof, front steps and sidewalk must be completed immediately. Although the exact costs are not yet available for the roof or both the front and back entrances, the Board is hoping to raise $60,000 over two years to tackle these projects. We are also investigating available grants. We expect the price tag could well exceed the amount mentioned, but it is a starting point for the Board which already relies heavily on public support. Although the Board of Directors understands the community is inundated with fundraising requests, we are asking the people of Maple Creek to dig a little deeper if possible and assist the Centre in raising the necessary funds. The Jasper Centre is the Southwest and Maple Creek’s premier year round tourist attraction with approximately 8,000 visitors a year. It provides meeting space for groups & organizations, three galleries for local/regional artists and artisans, 15 museum galleries, as well as a diverse set of programmes, special events and Canada Day. It is the only arts and heritage centre for the entire region. Please help us keep The Jasper a viable and vibrant Centre for all ages and groups. Donations can be made to the Jasper Centre at Box 1504 Maple Creek or dropped off weekday afternoons. Donny White Board Chair

Also, watch for Saskatchewan’s Cypress Hills online reservations opening April 21st.

Planned power outage in about an hour ( today Jan.20) that will last about a half hour. Thanks.

Save the dates! We are hoping and dreaming of getting back to a wonderful and normal camping season this year. Currently, we plan to open our new and improved... campsite reservation system for bookings in April, so be sure to mark the dates in your calendar. We can’t wait to see you again! Please note that reservation dates could change if needed, in order to align with public health requirements. Additional details about the new reservation system and everything you need to know will be announced at a later date, so please hang tight!