Luseland rink project receives generous donation

By Joan Janzen

The Luseland Rink Improvement Project recently received a donation of $86,392.67 from the Luseland Community Agriculture Project, representing the proceeds from the 2025 chickpea crop.

“I am incredibly proud and grateful to be part of receiving this generous donation from the Community Agriculture Project,” Candice Kraft, Rink Improvement Project Chair, said. “This initiative was a community effort, with many individuals, businesses, and partners contributing their time, expertise, and resources.”

The Luseland Rink Improvement Project received a donation of $86,392.67 on behalf of the Luseland Community Agriculture Project. L-R: Candice Kraft (Chair), Kelsey Thompson (Lead), Bailey Tweddle (committee member), and Dan Holman (committee member and partner with Holman Farming Group and NourishPro Agro). SUBMITTED PHOTO

The community effort began with the Town of Luseland and Holman Farming Group donating the use of the land, and Holman Farming Group organizing the project and farming the crop. NourishPro Agro was responsible for purchasing, processing, and marketing the crop, which the community produced together. Thanks to their efforts, the chickpeas are now en route to a customer in Turkey.

Many people played a role in making this achievement possible. The project’s committee members include Dallas Cairns (Fundraising Lead), Adam Franco (Design Lead), Candice Kraft (Chair), Brian Gottfried, Brent Honecker, Dan Holman, Jonathan Thompson, Caleb Ostrowski, Kelsey Thompson, and Bailey Tweddle. Bailey organized all the input donations, agronomy, and coordinated the field work for the project.

“Every cent from this project will be going toward the next exciting phase of our rink improvements,” Candice reported. Committee members are already hard at work behind the scenes, planning to repurpose the decommissioned curling rink into new dressing rooms, as well as creating a heated spectator area behind the east-side glass.

“This project stands as a testament to the strength of community spirit and support. Every contribution brings us one step closer to making our dreams a reality at our rink,” Candice explained. The committee is filled with pride and gratitude after receiving this remarkable contribution.