45-year-old Clementsport Legion to get facelift

It was all hands on deck to support the Clementsport Legion recently, as all levels of government chipped in to give the 45-year-old building a facelift.

A crowd gathered to hear the news earlier this month, with West Nova MP Colin Fraser announcing $22,055 from the federal government through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150), to improve the overall energy efficiency of the Branch 122 building, built in 1971.

The funding will help with repairs to the roof and the replacement of windows. The improvements will contribute directly to the operational efficiency and sustainability of the building by lowering heating costs. The work will also enhance the healthy enjoyment of the facility for veterans, members, and area residents.

The renovations are also supported by the province through Communities, Culture and Heritage ($15,000); the Municipality of the County of Annapolis ($2,400); and the Clementsport Legion itself ($4,668).

The Clementsport Legion serves area residents within a wide radius as a welcoming space for community groups, meetings, social events, and fundraising activities.

“The Royal Canadian Legion Clementsport is proud to support the veterans and their dependents,” said Branch 122 president Bill Hilden. “These upgrades to our building will allow us to continue with all of our events and better serve the community. The renovations were needed to maintain the integrity of our structure and reduce the cost of heating.”

Warden Timothy Habinski said the county is proud of the impact volunteers have upon their community through involvement in the Clementsport Legion.

“The funding provided by the government of Canada and the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage, and the municipality is a terrific example of three levels of government working together to support these volunteers in the important work they do,” Habinski said.

“The Clementsport Legion is first and foremost a meeting place for veterans and members of Branch 122,” said Fraser. “It also serves other community groups such as the ladies auxiliary and the Clementsport Historical Society. This well-used facility is a busy place, seven days a week, featuring a variety of social and community events including game nights, bingo, dances, dinners, and fundraisers.”

He said the government of Canada is pleased to assist with the renovation of a facility that is such a focal point of community activity and source of community pride.

Annapolis MLA and Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil described the Clementsport Legion as a community hub, like many other legions across the province.

“They are important facilities for our veterans and the community at large for meetings, recreation and camaraderie,” said McNeil, adding he is pleased the province is supporting the Clementsport project.