TOWN LOSES KRAFT HOCKEYVILLE BID

Perhaps the third time will be the charm for Carleton Place?

After bids this year and in 2012 to become Kraft Hockeyville champion, the town wasn't part of the four finalist communities in the national competition announced March 11 — Saint-Anselme, Que., Maple Ridge, B.C., Ste. Anne, Man., and West Lorne, Ont.

Kraft Hockeyville aims to help communities with aging sports and recreation infrastructure. In partnership with the National Hockey League (NHL) and National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA), it's given away $4.5 million to 93 communities since its launch 17 years ago.

The top prize this year — $250,000 for arena upgrades and the chance to host a pre-season NHL game, along with $10,000 in new hockey equipment.

Back on Feb. 12, the town launched its community rally campaign for the competition and planned to use funds for a hockey equipment loaning program, eliminating financial

barriers for players.

"Our arena is where our community comes together as one family," Carleton Place. Coun. Linda Seccaspina noted during the Feb. 12 kickoff.

A total of 431 entries were submitted to the Kraft Hockeyville website from the community during the rally stage, showing why Carleton Place deserves the title. Some of the comments included: "We are very fortunate to have this facility and gathering

place in our community. The equipment loan program is very deserving of this award" as well as "My community supports so many kids starting out when learning to skate and providing opportunities to get time on the ice. My daughter's class comes during school time and every kid has so much fun on the ice!"

Voting for the four finalist communities opens March 31 at hockeyville.kraftcanada.ca