Ventura Takes Centre Stage

When Cliff Penner, President of Ventura Custom Homes, heard that the West End Cultural Centre was planning a major redevelopment he wanted to be involved. �Music has always been one of my passions,� he says, �and I have spent many great evenings enjoying concerts at the West End.� Recognizing the importance of the WECC to Winnipeg�s reputation as one of Canada�s cultural hot spots, he offered a lead donation of $250,000 towards the project. When the new WECC opens in 2008, the concert hall will be named the Ventura Theatre.

�For years, we have built homes for Manitoban families,� says Glenda Sobie, General Manager of Ventura Custom Homes. �We are also committed to building community spirit, and we are proud to play a role in building a new home for this dynamic cultural centre.�

The WECC�s General Manager Nan Colledge says she was thrilled by the generous donation. �The WECC takes two of the things Winnipeggers can be proud of � our musical talent and the spirit of our communities � and combines them into something special. Mr. Penner�s exceptional donation will help us continue to provide that special experience for more musicians, audiences and local residents.� Colledge made the announcement standing in front of a new set of beams installed to shore up the sagging 99-year-old building.

The WECC has now reached 75% of its campaign goal of $3.3 million and aims to start construction in Spring 2008. It has also launched its �Strike a Chord� campaign where Winnipeggers can buy a note and help rebuild the facility. For more information, go to www.wecc.ca