Herman Prior Activity Centre held a series of events entitled the Song Catcher Series. Executive Director Kathy Bryce explains it was initiated by Jerry Maksymyk this year along with the volunteers here at the Centre and it significantly boosted attendance.
"We've had two shows in the spring and they both went extremely well. Bringing in different groups into the Herman Prior Centre has been a real a real boost for Herman Prior. The members who come in are really enjoying the different types of music that have been here so far. On October the 20th, we have Bluegrass group coming in and they are called the Stanley County Cut-Ups."
She says the group is quite well-known, especially among blue-grass enthusiasts with five members.
"They're going to be coming here October 20th from 2 p.m. to about 4 p.m., and they'll be doing some bluegrass music for the whole session. The tickets for that are only $15 each and we'll have a canteen running again with selling some of our really good baking that we have going on here at the centre.
Bryce adds they're excited about this series of musical shows, seeing as there are not only more people showing up, but more members are making their way out, as well.
"We're getting new people coming in who had never been here and they're quite amazed at what we offer here, and how nice the Herman Prior Centre is for music and use. It's created a lot of interest in that sense. So, that's a good thing for us as we are proud that we are now over 717 members at Herman Prior. That's a a record number for many, many years. It hasn't been that high in many years."
Looking back over their records, Bryce explain the opening of Herman Prior in 1984 saw a little over 1,100 members , I believe it was a year or two after it opened there was a little over 1100 members in the following two years.
"That's a lot of people. The membership went up and down over the years. I've been here at Herman Prior for seven years and when I started seven years ago, the membership was at 189, and today it's grown to 717. SO, it's a fun place. Everybody come on down!"
Tentative dates are set for next year to continue a new series, depending on possible changes for the bands to have time to be here.
"There will be two in the spring and two in the fall. So, if you're interested, you can get tickets at the Herman Prior Activity Centre, you can come to the front desk, or contact any other Board members. We do have them available. Come on down for a wonderful Sunday afternoon of music."
The Centre is also gearing up for its annual Christmas Craft Sale and Flea Market. It takes place November 30 at 2:50 p.m. Over 40 tables will be set up with a variety of items rnaging from Christmas baking to unique gifts.
Uncle Louie the Millwright is returning. He's a caricature artist back by popular demand. He will be providing fun Christmas-themed caricature drawings of yourself.
A 50/50 draw takes place and door prizes and plenty of or more festive fun will be awaiting. Bruce adds it’s a great way to bring the community together and a good fundraiser for the Herman Prior Centre.