News Release

For Immediate Release
August 18, 2006

Community Hall Celebrates Grand Opening

Richmond County, N.S. – The South Mountain Arm of Gold Community Association is unveiling the newly revamped St. George’s Channel Community Hall after many months of hard work and preparations. Today marks the hall’s grand opening, allowing tourists and local residents to benefit from all of the new amenities the hall has to offer.

The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) welcomed the news of the grand opening that was achieved with the help of an investment of a $150,000 through ACOA’s Strategic Community Investment Fund.

“It is always great to see people pulling together, dedicating time and hard work to make their community a better place,” said Minister Peter MacKay. “The renovated hall will be a significant asset to this area, drawing tourists and adding to the quality of life for local residents.”

The funding has allowed the association to perform structural renovations and upgrades to the Community Hall which will benefit the surrounding communities.

“The upgrades to the hall were a much needed addition to the community,” says Doris Matthews, Chairperson for South Mountain Arm of Gold Community Association. “The hall has always been a gathering spot for the communities, from West Bay to Dundee, St George’s Channel, Roberta and The Points. These upgrades allow us to welcome more events, bringing about an even greater sense of community.”

The Hall is located in St. George’s Channel, Richmond County. The building, which was used as the local school house, was constructed over 100 years ago, but for the past number of years, has been used as the local community hall. The South Mountain Arm of Gold Community Association oversees operations at the hall and hosts many events, showcasing Cape Breton’s celebrated culture.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA’s programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.

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For More Information Contact:

Doris Matthews Chairperson
South Mountain Arm of Gold Community Association
Tel: (902) 345-0495

Jennifer Crocker
Communications, ECBC
Tel: (902) 564-3917