Over its 90-year history, the Sechelt Legion has called three locations home. The fourth, its imminent new homebase, is expected to open after the Easter long weekend.
A “mad frenzy” of work is under way to get the 5546 Inlet Avenue location up and running, Sechelt Legion president Bill McLean told Coast Reporter. There’s the kitchen install, electrical work and plumbing to be done, as well as paving the parking lot.
But first, the Legion is hosting one last weekend at 5591 Wharf Avenue to say goodbye. Saturday, March 23, will be the last full day of activities. Celebrations start with a garage sale. Members get first priority at 9 a.m., then the public is welcome at 10 a.m. At noon, Jim Taylor will provide entertainment in the lounge, carrying on his 20-year tradition of playing in the Sechelt Legion. “To close out with him is just the right thing to do,” McLean said.
The last meat draw and 50/50 will be in the afternoon. The Easter basket draw will also be on Saturday. The kitchen officially closes at 6 p.m., then the last karaoke dance party starts at 7:30. McLean expects a lot of regulars and hopes some folks will come out of the woodwork to join the festivities.
On Sunday, the Legion will be open from noon until 4 p.m. McLean said they called a special general meeting to discuss borrowing more money. The Legion was recently handed a “surprise bill,” McLean says, for the build and beautification of Inlet, which came in at five times what they budgeted. McLean hopes the costs will be reduced.
McLean says they could still use donations big or small for the new location. As of March 19, the community has raised under $15,000 for the building. McLean noted they are also thankful for the support of suppliers and contractors.
Once the kitchen closes, the equipment and beer cooling station will be moved and installed in the new location.
McLean describes the new location as “modern yet tasteful” with a fine showcase that is respectful of the Legion’s past and mission. There will be more room for a prominent display of memorabilia. The brand new bar will be 25 feet long, and there will be air conditioning. Two dart boards and an 8-ball table will be ready for fun. The Legion hopes to obtain permission for a patio. Capacity will be determined by inspections.
McLean also hopes that the Legion’s members will vote to allow accompanied minors until 7 p.m., which will allow families to enjoy dinner there. After all, the new Legion will be close to Cowrie Street, and McLean doesn’t want to turn business away. The members voted a few years ago to welcome the public to the Sechelt Legion without membership or needing to be signed in.
The new location will open “without fanfare,” McLean said. Members will be notified of its opening day so they can be the first to enjoy the new digs. A grand opening will be hosted at a later date.
The Sechelt Legion first opened in 1934.
