Keeping the Annapolis Royal Community Center open

By Phil Kent

At a meeting this summer Brad Bent, the president of the Legion in Annapolis Royal, sounded the alarm that the Community Center might have to close due to the excessive costs of heating the building. It is anticipated that the bill for this coming year could easily exceed $20,000. The Legion has shouldered the responsibility of maintaining, repairing and heating the center for many years. However, with declining revenues and increasing costs the Legion can no longer do this alone.

While it is recognized that more long-term solutions need to be found, one popular suggestion for a short-term measure caught on immediately. It was proposed that we seek donations to a heating fuel fund to try to offset a portion of the costs for this coming winter. It was suggested by some that $100 would be a fitting donation. Of course, any donation, big or small, is welcomed. A number of attendees made donations on the spot. Since then many individuals and several organizations have donated to this cause.

To recognize those who give the suggested donation a “Wall of Flame” has been created by Legion member, Dave Cooper. This ‘wall’ is a large wooden plaque carved to resemble a wall of bricks, on which donors’ name will be engraved. It is hoped that all 100 ‘bricks’ will soon be filled.

In a further gesture of thanks to donors, Legion members Jim and Judy Gushue, owners of Annapolis Appliance, have donated a refrigerator to be raffled off. The names of all donors to the heating fuel fund will go into a draw, and the winner will receive the fridge. This is a most generous gesture from Mr. and Mrs. Gushue, who have been tremendous supporters of the Legion and the Community Center over the years. We owe them a great deal of thanks.

It is anticipated that by next year we will have more permanent solutions to the problems of the building. In the interim we thank all those who have helped the cause to keep your Community Center open. If you wish to make a donation please call the Branch at 532-5196.

I appeal to the citizens of the Valley to keep in mind the tremendous contributions made by your Legion over the years to the community in which you live. As membership and revenues decline, it is increasingly difficult for each of the branches to do all that they want for their respective communities. Please lend your support to their efforts.

PHIL KENT Kent is past president of the Port Royal Legion Branch 21 in Annapolis Royal.