Hall update
VIEW ROYAL ― On November 25th, Piper Roger Maguire led dignitaries to our almost-finished building, filling the hall with the rich sound of his pipes. The event was an announcement by Federal Government Minister Harjeet Sajjan, responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Canada agency. Dignitaries included Chief Robert Thomas of the Esquimalt Nation and the recently elected Mayors of View Royal, Colwood and Langford. This was the second visit to our building site by a federal cabinet minister, and I am sure not the last, given how attractive the venue is for any public offering. The event was for Minister Singh to publicize the federal funding that has been awarded to our project and to announce the opening in Victoria of a new office for Pacific Economic Development Canada. Several press members were in attendance, as well as representatives of industry and all levels of government.
Unfortunately, we remain at the mercy of our suppliers in finishing the building. Our main entry doors were supposed to arrive on the day this event took place. We now anticipate an inspection by the Town of View Royal to give us occupancy of the building will happen on December 5th. We are starting to plan our official opening, which will take place in mid-January 2023.
Many trades have been busy on-site to get the building ready for occupancy. The parking lot has been paved (see photo), handrails are installed, and all safety-related items have been finished. Once we have occupancy, we will still have to finish many things to bring it up to the high level we desire. The kitchen and landscaping are the big items that still remain to be completed.
These and the other finishing touches all cost funds, which we unfortunately lack. Government grants and many generous gifts from members of the public have gone a long way in getting our building to where it is. This has been tremendous, but we still need more than $200,000. I am appealing to YOU to help with this final push to get us over the finish line. We can make this centre a source of pride to our Scottish community and beyond with your help. All donations over $25 are eligible for a tax receipt.
The end of the year is the deadline to make your tax-deductible donation to the Society for 2022. If you would like to help, please visit our website for more details. I’m excited to greet you in January at our new centre. Slainte mhath! Ω
