Mayor Duane Davison was sympathetic to organizers. He said there has been a push from insurance companies to get an extra layer of insurance on top of the municipal for events like this. It comes down to having the coverage if something goes wrong. In many cases, this is a “suggestion”, but one of those that could leave groups or individuals exposed if the advice is not taken. It can be a difficult situation for sure.
“This is new for all of us,’ Davison said. “Any event renting a facility, there is a responsibility, and we’ve been advised to have that extra layer there.”
“Survivor is a big event, and important event for Souris. It is huge for the community.”
He said when discussing, council was concerned about setting precedents. If they picked up the tab for Survivor, what would keep other groups in the same situation from coming to have the municipality help them out?
Davison said at the time the Curling Club came to council, they had only had one quote. It was suggested they try to find a better deal elsewhere. Their provider, Western Financial was suggested as a possibility. A company might even chip in a little in a sponsorship deal, and Davison said there is the possibility Souris-Glenwood might make a donation to it as well.
Fenwick said they are checking out options now, and getting help in paying is definitely something they would like. They need to get everything together in two weeks, as they need to have it all together before they begin the event on March 31. He wishes they had received a better heads up from the complex about this insurance so they could be prepared.
At any rate, they are looking to have a good event again this year. Although the number of rinks is down somewhat from the past, in the last couple of years they have been able to attract around 25 women’s teams and nearly 50 men’s. March 15 is the last day to register, and Fenwick said they tend to get rinks come in at the last minute. There are two socials, each with a live band – Tanglebox on April 2 and Sean Taylor Band on April 4, and a banquet. Junior and stick curling are also held. Fenwick said regardless of the insurance issue, they are all looking forward to the 26th running.
“It is always a good time,” Fenwick stated.
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff