Legion hard at work despite closure

During Ontario’s stay-at-home orders, the Barry’s Bay Legion building is closed to the public; but rest assured Legion members are continuing to serve local veterans and the community. Branch 406 President Heather Poliquin provides both an update on plans for 2021 and a summary of the last year.

Coming in 2021

Poliquin said that the Legion is so pleased with the recently-installed mural by former Madawaska Valley District High School student Brookelyn Martin (pictured above) that they hope to encourage other local schools to get similarly creative as there is more space for new murals be mounted on the exterior of the building.

When the Legion is permitted to reopen the building for events like the monthly Pancake Breakfast, visitors will also find a refreshed Club Room and Club Room entrance thanks to some recent minor renovations. In anticipation of the arrival of warm weather, Branch 406 hopes to be able to afford to build a deck outside in the patio area. They have obtained modular tenting on loan from CFB Petawawa to use as a canopy. Poliquin said, “This tenting is robust and will survive wind and rain storms.” Because of the popularity of the temporary Legion patio last summer, she said, “Next year we hope to have built a permanent pergola and purchase proper outdoor furnishings.”

Review of 2020

“The Barry’s Bay Legion, Branch 406 wishes to take this opportunity to thank its members, volunteers, friends, and the community for their generosity and support during these difficult times. Your support is truly overwhelming. Your involvement and generosity will allow us to continue our mission to assist our veterans, our military, and the community. We know there are more difficult times ahead but with your continued support we will be able to make it through these challenging times,” Poliquin told The Current.

Although the past year has been a difficult one for all, Branch 406 was still able to support many local charities/organizations as well as those specific to Veterans and their families. Poliquin said, “We donated $20,154.27 to the organizations listed below. The donations were made from our Lottery, Nevada, and Bingo Accounts as well as the Poppy Trust Account. We hope to continue supporting local organizations this year.”