Yellowknife (May 19/04) - Construction of the second pad of the Multiplex arena got underway a couple of weeks ago, but a few overturned loads of gravel from a Yellowknife youngster got the project officially underway Friday.

Young skater Seth Aumond got a little ambitious helping Mayor Gordon Van Tighem with the official groundbreaking of the construction of the second ice pad at the Multiplex. - Lisa Scott/NNSL photo

The groundbreaking was part of a lunch-hour celebration planned by Facilities for Kids, along with free burgers and hotdogs.

"I'm very excited. This is what we've been working toward," said Kevin Stapleton, the president of the organization.

The group is still raising the $1 million they pledged towards the completion of the second pad. They have raised $300,000 since Nov. 2003.

"If the ice users hadn't pushed it, it wouldn't have been done until 2007," said Stapleton.

A recent partnership with Diavik Diamond Mines catapulted the project forward and now completion is slated for next December, two years ahead of schedule.

Facilities for Kids isn't stopping with the second pad. They are committed to helping the Yellowknife Gymnastics Club complete their facility.

Duke Vetor, vice- president of operations for Diavik, handed over $50,000 towards the Facilities for Kids fundraising project. Stapleton says a field house facility at the site of the former correctional centre next to the Multiplex is also on the list.

An indoor soccer pitch and track could be included in that project.

The barbecue drew big crowds to the Multiplex entryway.

Carmen Aumond brought her kids out for a bite and to show her support. "We love the facility," she said.