For the last few years, “An Evening of Comedy” with comedians from Yuk Yuk’s International Stand-Up Comedy has been a mainstay of the Bradford Curling Club’s fundraising efforts, and this year was no different.
With three hilarious comedians, pre-show dinner catered by Little Black Dress Catering of Bradford and Robert Hawkins DJing the post-show dance party, hundreds came out to the Portuguese Cultural Centre to raise thousands of dollars in support of the Bradford Curling Club on Saturday night.
“It’s one of our largest, annual fund-raisers, and 100 percent of the funds raised come back to the curling club,” explained Brian Febel, President of the club.
Founded in 1880, the club has seen its fair share of homes around the area, from rivers to local ponds to cold storage areas.
But since 1956, the Bradford Curling Club has been located at 125 Simcoe Rd. beside the Bradford and District Memorial Community Centre.
Since the initial $50,000 was raised to build their current home, the club has been consistently funding to help with the the operations and improvements to the club, its home and the related equipment.
The funds raised from ticket sales and silent auction help keep the annual fees down for members and fund the maintenance of the building and infrastructure of the club.
“Money raised by the Bradford Curling Club will go to support the continuous improvements of the facilities and to keep the club a place to enjoy,” explained Febel.
“It’s all about infrastructure. We have a lot of pieces of equipment. Our ice plant is old and continually needs maintenance. A lot of the money we raise is to be able to continue to operate,” he continued.
With over 250 members in the club, all directors and committee members volunteer their time to ensure that money raised will go where it is needed the most.
Curling can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages and athletic ability and it’s this diversity that brings a strong social aspect to the club.
“Experienced players and beginners are always welcome,” invited Febel.
To reach out to the Bradford Curling Club, visit their website here.