It is expected that a hall full of poker players will help secure a dental practice at the Assiniboine Valley Medical Centre.
“It’s a lengthy process,” said Anne Schlivert, the manager of the building where a large portion has been reserved for medical professionals who will complement the doctors. “We’re finalizing blueprints.”
Schlivert said that she and the Centre’s board are working with a dental partnership in Red Deer, Alta. and a letter of intent has been signed to acquire the space as needed.
“Our next step is to get a building permit and then send the job to tender,” she said, adding that it is hoped a dentist will be set up and working in the facility this year.
To help raise money for the improvements to the area to make it suitable for a dental office, the Centre’s board is holding a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament at the OCC Hall in Kamsack on March 17.
There will be a maximum of 50 players and each one will pay a registration fee of $50, Schlivert explained. Players may do one re-buy within the first hour of play.
The top four players will be paid out 50 per cent of the registration and re-buy fees, while the Centre receives the other half.
Schlivert said that the Centre could raise about $2,500 with the event and as of last week about 25 persons had already registered to play.
Similar Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments have been held in Togo and they’ve been successful, she said.
“We’d like to hear from residents with experience dealing cards who could lend a hand.”
Persons wishing to register for the fundraiser or to volunteer to help may contact Schlivert at the Medical Centre or through Facebook.
Along with the poker players the hall will have a bar and food available, she said. Spectators will be welcome.
