By Heather Nelson
Over the past few months there has been lots of activity at the Lone Butte Community Hall – thanks to Lone Butte, Horse Lake Community Association (LBHLCA) members and a lot of hard work by LBHLCA secretary Chris Schmidt.
The hall now boasts a brand new roof and beautiful renovated kitchen. Schmidt applied for grants on behalf of the LBHLCA to complete the much needed upgrades at the hall and was awarded funding from Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) of $24,931, and a Community Works Fund Green Grant from the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) of $18,000.
"The community association has had a wish list for these hall improvements for many years," says Schmidt.
"We are grateful to all who helped with donations of time and money, and to NDIT and the CRD for their financial assistance. We are proud of our accomplishments."
The roof has been in desperate need of repair for years, and now is re-insulated and the old tin was replaced with Duroid asphalt shingles. Mainline Roofing completed the work in August.
"The Lone Butte Hall is a community hub that, thanks to these recent improvements, will continue to provide clean, comfortable and welcoming space for local events,” says NDIT chief executive officer Janine North.
“The recent improvements to the facility will extend its lifespan and help it host more frequent and larger events. The Trust is proud to support this project with a grant contribution of $24,931 throughout Community Halls and Recreation Facilities program."
The bright welcoming kitchen, now updated with new flooring, new cupboards and counters is very user friendly with an expanded doorway to accommodate mobility-challenged people. Brand new dishes and flatware are available to rent for functions. Other changes include a pass-way for serving and a new closed off utility closet.
The work was accomplished by Escott Kitchen & Tops, Lone Butte Heating, WC Electric and countless hours from LBHLCA volunteers.
“Once again, Lone Butte residents have stepped up to the challenge of renovating the community hall. The result is a facility that will continue to provide a home for community activities for many years to come,” says CRD Area L Director Bruce Rattray.
Come and check out the renovations at the hall during the annual Christmas Craft Fair on Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information about the hall, check out the new website at www.lonebuttehorselake.sfobc.ca, or call 250-395-3111.
Heather Nelson is a LBHLCA member.