2012 News Releases

 

Table of Contents

• New Sculpture to Commemorate Centennial of Legislative Building
• Regina Federation of Artists “Artist in Residence” Event
• "Perspectives: Scenes of Canada's Capitals" arrives in Regina
• New Finishing Line Facility in Wascana Centre
• Wascana Centre's got GOATS!
• No Fishing in Wascana Centre
• ourWascana Invites Citizens to Help Shape Future of Wascana Centre
• Waterfowl Park Display Ponds in Wascana Centre Receives Update
• Queen Elizabeth II Gardens to get Upgrades
• Wascana Centre Authority Announces Timmons as Chair of Board of Directors
• Wascana Centre Authority’s 50th Birthday Celebration!
• Wascana Centre Authority Awards Contract to Visioning Consultant
• Artists helping to celebrate Wascana Centre’s 50th anniversary
• Warning: Thin Ice
• Weekend of Winter Fun!
• Wascana Centre Authority is turning 50!

 

 

December 3, 2012
New Sculpture to Commemorate Centennial of Legislative Building

Today Premier Brad Wall announced plans for a new sculpture to be added to the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens at the Legislative Building in Regina.

"Walter Scott, our amazing first Premier and a father of confederation is not well known," Wall said. "There are too few books and research efforts on this man who literally laid the foundation for Saskatchewan's first century and oversaw exponential growth all while battling debilitating mental illness that took him away from the Legislature and the capital for months at a time. It is only fitting that we pay tribute to Walter Scott and the role he played in laying the groundwork for a vibrant and strong Saskatchewan."

In addition to naming Regina as the provincial capital, Scott captained the Rural Municipality Act, oversaw the expansion of phone service into rural areas and made record investments into rural infrastructure to connect Saskatchewan communities in the earliest years of the province. Between 1905 and 1913, the number of public schools in Saskatchewan went from approximately 400 to more than 2,700 and the Scott administration established the University of Saskatchewan which included the College of Agriculture -- the first time in Canada that an agriculture college would stand alongside academic and professional colleges.

A life-size bronze statue of Walter Scott will be designed and installed at the north end of the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens in front of the Legislative Building in June 2013.

"As one of the legacy projects of the Legislative Building's 100th Anniversary, this statue will not only enhance the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens but will instill pride in our history and the vision that Walter Scott had one hundred years ago," Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Kevin Doherty said.

In August 2012, an Expression of Interest document was posted through SaskTenders. An adjudication committee reviewed the artists' detailed design proposals and after careful consideration chose Shirley and Don Begg from Cochrane, Alberta to create this memorial sculpture.

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For more information, contact:

Linda Smith
Provincial Capital Commission
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3506
Email: linda.smith2@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-550-5927

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November 13, 2012
Regina Federation of Artists “Artist in Residence” Event

From November 13-15, 2012, the Regina Federation of Artists will station a different local artist at Wascana Place as an “Artist in Residence,” providing the public a free opportunity to observe and interact with the artists as they work on artwork inspired by Wascana Centre. The event is part of Wascana Centre’s celebratory projects and activities planned throughout 2012 as we mark our 50th Anniversary.

A rotating schedule of artists is attached to this release. Artists will be set up at varied times between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on the main floor of Wascana Place – 2900 Wascana Drive. A coffee-style area will be set up nearby to allow the public to bring or buy a coffee and enjoy the process of art being created.

The public are also invited to attend the Regina Federation of Artists Fall Art Show taking place on November 16-18. Art show hours are: Friday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 noon to 4 p.m. There is no charge and all are welcome. For more information, please visit www.reginafederationofartists.org.

Another 50th Anniversary event takes place on Tuesday, November 20 – a staff reunion tea. All current and former staff are invited to attend this event to catch up with former coworkers, browse through photo albums and reminisce. RSVPs can be made to 522-3661 or wca@wascana.ca.

And visit www.wascana.ca for photos, updates and more related to Wascana Centre Authority’s 50th Anniversary.

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Contact:
Carissa Robb
Manager of Community Relations
Wascana Centre Authority
(306) 347-1870 or (306) 539-4928

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September 10, 2012
“Perspectives: Scenes of Canada’s Capitals” arrives in Regina

Photo exhibit features a view looking across Wascana Lake towards the Saskatchewan legislature

Canada’s Capital Region — The National Capital Commission (NCC) and Canadian Geographic are proud to announce that the photo exhibit Perspectives: Scenes of Canada’s Capitals is touring the country and is being featured in different capital cities of Canada.

The exhibit will make three stops in Regina, Saskatchewan, from now until October 31. The exhibit will be at the following locations: *the Wascana Centre, from September 7 to September 18; *Government House, from September 19 to October 9; *Legislative Building, from October 10 to October 31.

Winning artist, Wes Tollefson from Regina, Saskatchewan, keeps being drawn back to the view looking across Wascana Lake. He says “I have experimented with the same waterfall many times, at different times of year, at different times of the day. I knew that I could “stop” the water with a very fast exposure.”

Over 2,000 Canadians from across the country submitted photographs for this national competition organized by the NCC and Canadian Geographic. The winning photographs illustrate points of interest and features that reflect the uniqueness of each of the capital cities of Canada — something that symbolizes their role in our country, our provinces and territories. Thousands of visitors to Canada’s Capital Region have seen the photo exhibit during the 2011 summer season.

The winners in each of the capital cities are:
Jordan Camponi, Edmonton (Alberta) (Grand prize winner)
James C. Patterson, Victoria (British Columbia)
Julia Coombs, Edmonton (Alberta)
Wes Tollefson, Regina (Saskatchewan)
Ken Gillespie, Winnipeg (Manitoba)
Sean Ivans, Yellowknife (Northwest Territories)
Ewa Kaczor-Santos, Whitehorse (Yukon)
Lan Hu, Iqaluit (Nunavut)
Thomas Lee, Ottawa (Ontario)
Doug Bisson, Toronto (Ontario)
Philippe Reno, Québec (Québec)
Emily Jackson, Fredericton (New Brunswick)
Derrick Hefford, St. John’s (Newfoundland)
Gilles Chamberland, Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island)
Chris Gidney, Halifax (Nova Scotia)
Katrina Strickland, Victoria (British Columbia) (winner: children category)

The winning photos are published on the Canadian Geographic website.

The NCC and Canadian Geographic wish to thank the City of Regina and the Canadian Capital Cities Organization for their contribution to this national initiative that helps build stronger ties between Canada’s capital cities, their residents and visitors.

About the National Capital Commission
The NCC is a federal Crown corporation whose mandate is to create pride through Canada’s Capital Region by making the Capital a meeting place that communicates Canada to Canadians. Towards this goal, the NCC organizes large-scale events such as Winterlude and Canada Day celebrations. It also takes great pride in developing and planning a capital for future generations.

About Canadian Geographic
The Royal Canadian Geographical Society is dedicated to imparting a broader knowledge and deeper appreciation of Canada — its people and places, its natural and cultural heritage and its environmental, social and economic challenges. The Society is one of Canada’s largest non-profit educational organizations and is funded primarily by membership fees and generous donations. The Society’s Board of Governors and its program committees are comprised entirely of volunteers.

About the Canadian Capital Cities Organization
The Canadian Capital Cities Organization (CCCO) is composed of representatives from Canada's provincial and territorial capitals, as well as from the national capital. Its goal is to foster an exchange of ideas among participants from different areas. The CCCO provides many opportunities for representatives — and capitals — to benefit from the skills of other members, and to combine efforts to promote the capitals, both culturally and economically.

For more information about the NCC, the public may contact 613-239-5000, 1-800-465-1867, 613-239-5090 (TTY) or 1-866-661-3530 (toll-free TTY) or visit the website at www.canadascapital.gc.ca.

Media Information:
National Capital Commission
Charles Cardinal
NCC Media Relations
613-239-5227 (office)
613-851-6924 (cellular)
charles.cardinal@ncc-ccn.ca

Denise LeBlanc
NCC Media Relations
613-239-5750 (office)
613-851-9465 (cellular)
denise.leblanc@ncc-ccn.ca

City of Regina
Provincial Capital Commission
Linda Smith
Manager, Communications and Marketing
306-787-3506 (office)
306-550-5927 (cellular)

 

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September 7, 2012
New Finishing Line Facility in Wascana Centre

The Regina Hotel Association (RHA) and Wascana Centre Authority (WCA), in collaboration with the Wascana Racing Canoe Club, the Regina Rowing Club, and the Wind On My Wings sailing club, are pleased to announce the construction of a finishing line facility on Pine Island, off the south shore of Wascana Lake.

The finishing line facility will enhance the island as a judging venue during water sport competitions and race events. The new structure will provide officials with a fully enclosed judging and viewing area to monitor race starts and finishes, as well as protect equipment from the elements.

The creation of the facility will make Wascana Centre one of the top three venues in Canada for canoe, kayak, sailing and rowing competitions, allowing the Centre to continue to attract national and international events to Regina.

“Wascana Centre is excited to be partnering with the Regina Hotel Association, the Wascana Racing Canoe Club, the Regina Rowing Club and Wind On My Wings during our 50th anniversary year to enhance the Pine Island venue and attract more events to the City,” commented Bernadette McIntyre, CEO Wascana Centre.

The Regina Hotel Association has committed $100,000 to support the construction of the facility through its Destination Marketing Fund. This fund assists over 50 event organizers and associations every year in support of their efforts to start-up, grow and attract events and conventions to Regina.

“We are thrilled to partner in this exciting development. The new facility will contribute to the clubs future success and strengthen Wascana Centre as an event destination, generating economic returns for many years to Regina’s tourism sector,” said Tracy Fahlman, CEO of the RHA.

The project will have three phases and is estimated to cost between $250,000 and $500,000. The remaining funds will be raised through grant applications and fundraising initiatives undertaken by the other partner organizations.

Chris LaPlante, Commodore of the Wascana Racing Canoe Club said “The support provided by the Regina Hotel Association has provided the momentum required to make Wascana Lake a first class facility and will ensure it is home to more national and international events.”

“The Regina Rowing Club is pleased to be part of this progressive collaboration. The improvements will benefit all those who use the lake for years to come”, noted Kathy Black, Club President.

While the main user of the facility will be the club partners, it will be designed and built as an all season, year-round, multi-use facility. This could generate new event opportunities for Wascana Centre in the winter that would further strengthen our city as a sport destination.

Wind on My Wings coordinator Tanya Gallagher commented, “The improvements in access will be a welcome benefit for our competitors, officials and fans”.

The facility design will be completed this winter with construction of phase one starting by the summer of 2013.

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For more information:
Bernadette McIntyre
CEO, Wascana Centre Authority
(306) 347-1846

Tracy Fahlman
CEO, Regina Hotel Association
(306) 546-4272

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Thursday, August 16, 2012
Wascana Centre’s got GOATS!

Wascana Centre Authority (WCA), in partnership with Friends of Wascana Marsh (FOWM) has organized for a local goat herd to graze the Habitat Conservation Area (HCA) to help control unwanted brush and weeds. Starting on Friday, August 17th until August 20th, forty goats will be grazing within Wascana Centre.

The HCA is located along the north side of Wascana Creek, southwest of where McDonald St. and Assiniboine Ave E merge. Once privately owned, before becoming part of Wascana Centre in 1962, single rows of caragana shrubs divided property lines. Over the last 50 years, the caragana, a non-native invasive shrub, has expanded dramatically in the HCA and over taken much of the natural grassland in the area, altering the grassland habitat significant. This change in habitat has had an effect on the marsh and grassland species that once utilized the area. In 2009, WCA removed a hectare of caragana shrubs using a brush clearer. Over the last few years the caragana has begun to re-grow in some areas where it was removed.

“Goats, unlike sheep and cattle, are browsers which mean that given a choice, goats will eat tree and shrub leaves and weeds first. In fact, goats seem to prefer caragana,” explains WCA’s Naturalist Jared Clarke, “Since this area is a place for wildlife, and the focus of our school group interpretive programming, WCA thought trying to control this shrub using an alternate, natural & environmentally sound method, was the right choice” says Clarke.

“Friends of Wascana Marsh are excited to be part of this project to naturally control the caragana and other weeds in the Habitat Conservation Area. Projects such as this raise awareness of this area that has been set aside for wildlife in Wascana Centre, in the middle of an urban centre,” says Joseph Kotlar, Chair of FOWM.

“Wascana Centre is pleased to be partnering once again with Friends of Wascana Marsh. The Friends have been very supportive with many of our initiatives to enhance the Habitat Conservation Area, the Waterfowl Park Display Ponds and the whole marsh area,” commented Bernadette McIntyre, CEO of Wascana Centre.

This year is a pilot project, to see how the area responds to the goat grazing. If things go as planned, the goats will be brought in periodically to graze the Habitat Conservation Area for the next couple of years. The goat herd will be kept within certain areas of the HCA using electric fencing, to ensure they are browsing the desired areas.

Regina residents will be able to see the goats grazing from the top of Wascana Hill in Douglas Park during the entire four days. An opportunity to see the goats up close will be available on Saturday, August 18th, from 1-3 pm when representatives from Friends of Wascana Marsh will be on hand to explain the project. The gate at the northwest corner of the HCA will be open during this time.

For more information on this or any of the activities within Wascana Centre please call 522-3661 or visit www.wascana.ca.

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Contact:
Jared Clarke
Naturalist
Wascana Centre Authority
(306) 529-0094

MEDIA:
Interviews and opportunities to photograph the goats grazing will be available at 10:30 am, Friday August 17th, and again on Monday, August 20th between 9:00 to 11:00 am. Interested persons should proceed to the top of Wascana Hill and walk down to the gate at the northwest corner of the Habitat Conservation Area.

 

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Friday, May 11, 2012
No Fishing in Wascana Centre

Wascana Centre Authority has implemented a bylaw change that prohibits fishing within Wascana Centre, effective immediately.

The new bylaw states: “Fishing is prohibited within Wascana Centre.”

This replaces the former and somewhat confusing bylaw: “Fishing shall be permitted within the centre excepting such areas where it shall be prohibited by the authority or by the director and such prohibition shall be indicated by a sign.”

Wascana Centre Authority is still considering fishing in the park but until further research is done it is at this point not deemed safe. This conclusion is based on various studies done on the water quality of Wascana Lake including one led by University of Regina researcher Dr. Peter Leavitt.

“The Limnology Laboratory at the University of Regina has been monitoring summer water quality in Wascana Lake for sixteen years. Over that time, dissolved oxygen levels have routinely fallen below the lowest acceptable values as defined by the Canadian water quality guidelines for the protection of aquatic life, particularly during July, August, and September. Oxygen values this low would make it difficult to sustain a healthy summer sportfish population,” states Dr. Leavitt.

Wascana Centre Authority will continue to investigate the possibility of allowing angling for patrons of the park. Initial steps were taken with the implementation of underwater aeration systems which pump oxygen into the lake throughout the year to aid in sustaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem.

Future steps will need to include reducing the amount of pollution that goes into the waters through the rural river system and through city street runoff drains.

Wascana Centre Authority thanks everyone who has shared their input into fishing on the lake and looks forward to future possibilities.

For information on any Wascana project or for a full copy of our bylaws please visit www.wascana.ca or call 306-522-3661.

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Contact:
Bernadette McIntyre, CEO
Wascana Centre Authority
306-347-1846

 

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Thursday, May 10, 2012
ourWascana Invites Citizens to Help Shape Future of Wascana Centre

(Regina, Saskatchewan) – Citizens from across the province of Saskatchewan are being invited to share their ideas about Wascana Centre. On May 10, Wascana Centre Authority launches ourWascana, a 50-year visioning project that will use public input to shape the future of this provincial landmark.

 

The ourWascana visioning process is centred on three questions:

• What do you love about Wascana Centre?
• What changes would you like to see in Wascana Centre?
• What are your hopes and dreams for Wascana Centre in the next 50 years?

“The ourWascana process offers citizens a chance to become involved in shaping the future for an integral part of the community,” says John Lewis, President of Intelligent Futures, the firm coordinating the ourWascana project. “Having as many citizens as possible involved in the ourWascana process will be a key to its success.”

Citizens can share their ideas on the www.ourwascana.ca website, or at events and locations across the city of Regina where the project information will be on display. The questions are also featured on a series of postcards that are being distributed across the community.

ourWascana will be a central part of Wascana Centre’s Comprehensive Review Project – the Vision for the Next 50 Years and Beyond, taking place during Wascana Centre Authority’s 50th year.

 

“Ensuring that Wascana Centre meets the long-term needs of the community is a key element in our Comprehensive Review,” says Nelson Wagner, Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee of the Wascana Centre Board. “Our goal is to protect and preserve the best of Wascana Centre, and to create a vision that will ensure a  successful and sustainable future.”

 

Initial public input for ourWascana will be collected until July 2. In September, a draft vision will be developed and shared with the community for their feedback, with a final vision completed by November 2012.

 

“We are pleased to be part of the review process, which will ultimately help create a brighter future for Wascana,” adds Bernadette McIntyre, Chief Executive Officer of Wascana Centre Authority. “Through the ourWascana process, everyone in Saskatchewan now has a chance to influence the future use and purpose of the 2,300 acres we call Wascana Centre.”

 

Administered by Wascana Centre Authority (www.wascana.sk.ca), Wascana Centre is one of Canada’s largest urban parks, attracting more than 5 million visitors annually with its nature trails, recreation areas, educational, cultural and governmental services.

 

Intelligent Futures (www.intelligentfutures.ca) is a Calgary-based firm specializing in community engagement, visioning and long-term, sustainable planning projects.

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For more information, please contact:
John Lewis, Intelligent Futures
john@intelligentfutures.ca
(403) 589-5646

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Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Waterfowl Park Display Ponds in Wascana Centre Receives Update

 

Wascana Centre Authority is re-opening the Waterfowl Park Display Ponds for the summer season with a renewed and refreshed look.

 

Thanks to generous contributions by the Friends of Wascana Marsh and Farm Credit Canada, the Display Ponds were the benefactor of many improvements in 2011 and are opening with a fresh look in 2012 just in time to celebrate Wascana Centre Authority’s 50th anniversary.

 

Among the improvements were new sod installation, irrigation upgrading, path resurfacing, new shrubs planted and new fencing. These changes are not only to provide a more aesthetically pleasing environment for people but they are also important to the birds as they provide habitat and a maintained food source.

 

Interpretive signs that detail various facts regarding the ponds and the waterfowl seen inside also now surround the area. These were installed to allow for self guided tours, providing information to visitors of all ages no matter when they choose to visit. The information is written in both English and French.

 

Wascana Centre Authority CEO Bernadette McIntyre thanks both the Friends of Wascana Marsh and Farm Credit Canada for their generosity. “As a non-profit organization that is dedicated in part to promoting the environment, we certainly appreciate any and all assistance we can get to help us provide the community with a refreshed facility where they can learn and study wildlife in the middle of the City of Regina.”

 

Friends of Wascana Marsh Chair, Joseph Kotlar stresses the importance of promoting the natural side of Wascana. “The Friends were created specifically for the purpose of promoting, protecting and enhancing the Conservation area inside Wascana Centre so being involved with projects like this serves exactly our purpose. We realize the great importance of facilities such as the Waterfowl Park to conservation awareness and the potential it has to teaching all ages about the life in the marsh and habitat of Wascana.”

 

“Farm Credit Canada values the importance of the environment and the opportunity that Wascana Centre will give to city residents to experience nature up close through initiatives such as the Waterfowl Park Display Ponds and the learning tools that go along with it including interpretive signs and self-guided brochures,” states Brenda Stasuik, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility for Farm Credit Canada.

 

The Waterfowl Park Display Ponds are open every day from dawn to dusk through to the fall. Guests are encouraged to feed the birds in this area over other more manicured sections of Wascana Centre such as the Legislative area. The best diet for the waterfowl include grains such as peas and barley and leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach or parsley.

 

For information on the Waterfowl Park Display Ponds, Wascana Centre’s 50th anniversary celebrations, or any area or activity of Wascana Centre, please visit www.wascana.ca or call 306-522-3661.

 

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Contact:
Bernadette McIntyre, CEO
Wascana Centre Authority
306-347-1846

 

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April 19, 2012

Office of the Provincial Capital Commission

Queen Elizabeth II Gardens to get Upgrades

 

You might notice increased activity in the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens at the Legislative Building in the next few weeks as upgrades to the gardens get underway.

 

Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Bill Hutchinson announced the details of the upgrades planned for the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens as part of the province's year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Saskatchewan Legislative Building.

 

"Each year, thousands of visitors come to see the beautiful gardens at our Legislative Building in Regina," Hutchinson said. "We are happy to have the opportunity, during this anniversary year, to make important upgrades to increase the accessibility, sustainability and enjoyment offered by the beautiful space that highlights the magnificent century old Legislative Building."

 

The upgrades include new lighting, fully accessible paved pathways to highlight the floral beds, new Tyndall Stone benches, interpretive signage, improved irrigation and renewed perimeter landscaping. The Government of Saskatchewan has committed $921,000, Wascana Centre Authority $130,000 and the City of Regina $250,000 through Wascana Centre to make the upgrades.

 

During this period of construction, the provincial government will also install new lighting standards along Legislative Drive. The roadway lighting will cost $521,600.

 

The upgrades are expected to be complete in September, in time for the public event on October 11, 2012 to commemorate the opening of the Legislative Building which occurred on October 12, 1912.

 

This program is one of several being implemented throughout 2012 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Saskatchewan Legislative Building and the 50th anniversary of Wascana Centre Authority. For more information about the celebration please call 306-787-9261 or visit www.opcc.gov.sk.ca/leg100.

 

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For more information, contact:

Nicole Fellinger

Office of the Provincial Capital Commission

Regina

Phone: 306-787-2687

Email: nicole.fellingergov.sk.ca

Cell: 306-527-8412

 

Bernadette McIntyre

Wascana Centre Authority

Regina

Phone: 306-347-1846

 

Desirae Bernreuther

City of Regina

Regina

Phone: 306-777-7486

Email: dbernreuregina.ca

 

 

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Wascana Centre Authority Announces Timmons as Chair of Board of Directors

 

The Wascana Centre Authority (WCA) has announced Dr. Vianne Timmons, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Regina as Chair of the Board of Directors effective April 1, 2012. Timmons takes over from Mayor Pat Fiacco as WCA celebrates its 50th anniversary.

 

Fiacco served as Chair of Wascana Centre Authority’s Board of Directors since April 1, 2007 and will remain on the Board until his term as Mayor is complete.

 

Timmons noted Wascana Centre means a great deal to everyone in the Regina area.

 

“Becoming Chair of its Board of Directors is a great honour, and a responsibility that I take very seriously,” Timmons said.  “As we celebrate Wascana Centre’s 50th anniversary and plan for the future, I look forward to working with the larger community to ensure that this jewel in our city remains a vibrant, welcoming and beautiful place for the thousands of people who visit it on a daily basis.”

 

Bernadette McIntyre, CEO of Wascana Centre extended appreciation to Mayor Fiacco for his dedication, guidance and time. “We are grateful for the Mayor’s leadership and vision for the WCA and know his contributions will long remain part of what he can be proud of within his tremendous civic legacy,” said McIntyre.

 

"I am pleased to be able to turn the reigns of WCA over to the more than capable hands of Dr. Timmons," Fiacco said.  "She will provide strong leadership to the Authority during this crucial time of review and celebration. I look forward to the next phase for Regina's most precious landmark with Vianne at the helm."

 

The role of Vice-Chair on the Board of Directors will now be filled by Christine Tell, Member of the Legislative Assembly representing Wascana Plains.  Ms. Tell has been a member of the Board of Directors since June 2010 and prior to that she held the portfolio of Minister of Tourism, Culture, Park and Sport, so she is very familiar with Wascana Centre and the operation of parks throughout Saskatchewan.

 

Wascana Centre Authority was created on April 1, 1962 with the proclamation of The Wascana Centre Act.  It was a partnership that includes the Province of Saskatchewan, the City of Regina and the University of Saskatchewan.  It was a visionary creation that existed nowhere else in the world at that time.  It is now a partnership with the University of Regina. The Board of Directors consists of five appointees from the Province of Saskatchewan, three from the City of Regina and three from the University of Regina.  The Chair rotates among the three partners at the pleasure of the partners and the Board.

 

April 1, 2012 marks Wascana Centre’s 50th birthday; please join the Board and staff at Wascana Place from 1:00 – 4:00 PM for an Open House that includes lectures, demonstrations, displays, nature walks and of course cake!

 

For more information on this and any of the activities within Wascana Centre please call 522-3661 or visit www.wascana.ca.

 

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Contact:

Bernadette McIntyre

CEO, Wascana Centre Authority

306-347-1846

 

Natalie Tomczak

University of Regina, External Communications

306-337-2452

 

 

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Friday, March 23, 2012

Wascana Centre Authority’s 50th Birthday Celebration!

 

On Sunday, April 1 please join us at Wascana Place (2900 Wascana Drive) for numerous fun and free activities to celebrate Wascana Centre’s 50th birthday.

 

Start your day with a “traffic-free” family walk or run around the west Wascana Lake from 7 – 11 a.m. Wascana Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic from Wascana Pool to Wascana Place to allow for a broader corridor to accommodate groups of pedestrians. Representatives from various local running clubs will be on hand to run with guests and help guide traffic.

 

Other activities will take place from 1 – 4 p.m. including guided nature walks, planting seeds to take home, colouring and completing “My favourite memory” cards, and playing fetch with our mascot, Digger the Dog. The joe moran gallery will feature a retrospective of Wascana’s history, and our balcony will be open to park admirers and photographers alike. Will Chabun and Wascana Naturalists past and present will present lively topics, and a “CSI”-style wildlife investigation is sure to intrigue all ages. Local authors will be on hand to sell and sign books related to Wascana Centre.

 

At 2:00 p.m., a commemorative plaque will be unveiled, birthday cake will be served, and celebratory remarks will be made by Wascana Centre’s partners. Bernadette McIntyre, CEO of Wascana Centre Authority, says “We take pride in knowing that, for 50 years, we’ve offered the people of Saskatchewan a place to enjoy recreation, entertainment, and nature’s beauty. As our park has evolved, so has our responsiveness to visitor needs, and we continue to improve Wascana Centre so it can be enjoyed for generations to come.”

 

That day we will also be launching a new Twitter account (@WascanaCentre) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/WascanaCentreRegina). Follow the latest Wascana happenings via social media beginning April 1st.

 

A full listing of the day’s activities can be found on www.wascana.ca, or call (306) 522-3661.

 

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Contact:

Carissa Robb

Manager of Community Relations

Wascana Centre Authority

(306) 347-1870 or (306) 539-4928

 

 

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Friday, March 16, 2012

Wascana Centre Authority Awards Contract to Visioning Consultant

 

Wascana Centre Authority (WCA) has taken another step forward with the Comprehensive Review – the Vision for the Next 50 Years and Beyond by awarding a consultant contract to Intelligent Futures of Calgary.

 

Intelligent Futures’ role will be to address the vision, mandate and purposes of Wascana Centre Authority including the funding model, governance, organizational structure and core services.

 

Intelligent Futures is committed to creating lasting sustainability solutions with strategic value and is known for its innovative approaches using community engagement to bridge the practice areas of communication, strategic planning, sustainability planning and urban planning.  Previous project work includes award-winning community sustainability plans, official community plans and zoning bylaws, sustainability indicators reporting, strategic planning processes, climate change projects and citizen engagement and visioning initiatives.

 

For the WCA visioning project, Intelligent Futures is partnering with O2 Planning + Design.  With offices in Calgary and Victoria, O2 is a multidisciplinary firm that brings together creative design, extensive environmental knowledge and advanced technology to create responsible solutions that integrate ecology, culture and economics.

 

"I was born and raised in Regina, so I know what a special place Wascana Centre is," says John Lewis, President of Intelligent Futures.  "Wascana is an important Saskatchewan landmark, and the 50th anniversary of the Wascana Centre Authority is the ideal time to create a plan to ensure the next 50 years are equally as successful. Intelligent Futures is excited and honoured to be a part of this project, and we look forward to working closely with citizens to capture their vision for the future of Wascana Centre."

 

“On behalf of the Board, we welcome Intelligent Futures and O2 Planning and Design to the Review Team and look forward to moving the Review project forward in a timely manner,” added Nelson Wagner, Chair of WCA’s Strategic Planning Committee.

 

“It is very important to the long-term sustainability of Wascana Centre to have this comprehensive review.  Intelligent Futures and O2 Planning and Design will bring a refreshing approach to public engagement and forming the vision for the future,” Bernadette McIntyre, Wascana Centre’s CEO noted.

 

For more information on this or any activity within Wascana Centre please call 522-3661 or visit www.wascana.ca.

 

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Contact:

Bernadette McIntyre

Chief Executive Officer

Wascana Centre Authority

306-347-1846

 

John Lewis

President

Intelligent Futures

403-589-5646

 

 

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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Artists helping to celebrate Wascana Centre’s 50th anniversary

 

Wascana Centre Authority turns 50 in 2012! As part of a year-long celebration to acknowledge this accomplishment, several activities and events are being planned throughout the entire year.

 

This month the Regina Federation of Artists (RFA) will showcase a different local artist at Wascana Place each weekday as an “Artist in Residence”.

 

For two weeks leading up to the Regina Federation of Artists Semi Annual Show and Sale on March 23-25, members of the RFA will be in Wascana Place providing the public a free opportunity to observe and interact with the artists as they work on pieces inspired by Wascana Centre.

 

From now through to March 22, artists will be working between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on the main floor of Wascana Place. A coffee-style area is set up nearby to allow the public to bring or buy a coffee, have a cookie, and enjoy the process of observing art as it is being created.

 

The next 50th anniversary event will take place on Sunday, April 1 as Wascana hosts the first of two birthday parties. More details on the activities of this day, our actual birthday, will follow.

 

For more information on this or any of the activities within Wascana Centre please call 522-3661 or visit www.wascana.ca.

 

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Contact:

Carissa Robb      

Manager of Community Relations   

Wscana Centre Authority    

306-347-1870 or 306-539-4928 

 

 

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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Warning: Thin Ice

 

Wascana Centre Authority in conjunction with the Regina Police Service, Regina Fire & Protective Services, and City of Regina, cautions people to keep off all ice surfaces in the city. Conditions around Wascana Lake and Wascana Creek, neighbourhood lakes, storm channels and drainage ditches are very dangerous as warmer temperatures start to weaken the ice.

 

Keep pets leashed around these areas and do not follow your animal onto the ice surface should they venture that way. Call for assistance.

 

Although areas may look stable, all ice surfaces in the city are extremely dangerous. Spring weather, underwater aeration systems in Wascana Lake, storm sewer drainage outlets, and runoff water flowing underneath the ice weakens it and wears it down.

 

Also impacted are all outdoor skating surfaces in the city which are now non-operational until next season.

 

For safety’s sake, please stay off the lakes and other water bodies.  If you see anyone in a potentially dangerous situation, on the ice, or near dangerous water, call the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500. In an emergency call 911.

 

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Contact:

Carissa Robb

Manager of Community Relations

Wascana Centre Authority

306-347-1870

 

Elizabeth Popowich

Manager, Public Information

Regina Police Service

306-777-6364

 

 

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Friday, February 10, 2012

Weekend of Winter Fun!

 

The countdown is on!

 

On Saturday, February 11 Wascana Centre Authority hosts a weekend of winter fun that starts its 50 day countdown to its 50th birthday.

 

On April 1, 1962 the Wascana Centre Act was signed, creating a unique partnership that still exists today between the Province of Saskatchewan, the City of Regina and the University of Regina that would oversee the development and maintenance of the lands surrounding the Legislative Building and the University.

 

In 2012, we are celebrating the vision of the forefathers who created Wascana Centre with events, activities and projects through the entire year.

 

Kicking off our 50 day countdown to our 50th birthday is a weekend full of outdoor activities and events to enjoy in Wascana Centre. Based on the lake east of the Conexus Arts Centre, the following activities are planned:

 

Saturday, February 11

9:00 am to 8:00 pm - Prairie Pond Hockey Challenge

9:00 am to 9:00 pm - Public skating on the lake (lit), SaskEnergy skate change tent

10:00 am - Regina Ski Club all ages cross country ski race (start near the Science Centre)

12:00 noon to 3:00 pm - Saskatchewan Science Centre Try Snow Shoeing

1:00 pm to 3:00 pm - Wascana Centre Authority 50th anniversary horse & wagon rides

 

Sunday, February 12

12:00 noon to 4:00 pm - Wascana IceCycle mountain bike races

9:00 am to 6:00 pm - Public skating on the lake, SaskEnergy skate change tent

12:00 noon to 3:00 pm - Saskatchewan Science Centre Try Snow Shoeing

1:30 pm - KinderBuzz Treasure Hunt

 

Plus all throughout the weekend there will be a special photo opportunity courtesy of KinderBuzz, a colouring contest, give-aways, mascot appearances, and more.

 

Join friends and family at any or all of the events. Visit www.wascana.ca for more information.

 

Patrons of the park are reminded to stay off Wascana Lake between Albert Street and Broad Street. Underwater aeration systems leave open pockets of water and cause unstable and thin ice patches over the entire lake surface.

 

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For more information contact:

Carissa Robb

Manager of Community Relations

Wascana Centre Authority

306-522-3661 or 306-539-4928

 

 

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