After years of declining membership, the Yorkton branch of the Royal Canadian Legion got a boost last month with 17 new members. Interim membership committee chair Judy Stubenberg told attendees of the Legion’s monthly meeting September 28 that number represents an increase of 10 per cent.
With the numbers of veterans waning, the Legion has been on a campaign to reinvent itself and attract non-veterans to its ranks. Many people are unaware that membership is open to many people who have not served in the military.
Other business included a proposal to enter into a contract with PK Bingo to convert the main hall in the Legion building into the Bingo’s new home when its lease in the building across the street expires in May. Bookings of the hall have decreased year over year, said Peter Wyatt, local president, and the move would have a dramatic effect on the Legion’s revenue.
Negotiations are still underway, but the concept enjoys widespread support among the membership.
The hall would still be available for important Legion functions such as Remembrance Day and the building still has other rooms available for weddings and other functions.
The meeting attendees heard some bad news as well. Although the building is sound, its boiler system, air handling unit and air conditioner are all on their last legs. Total replacement will run nearly $400,000. In the meantime, members voted to replace the thermostats and control system as a stopgap while fundraising begins for the major project.
