Haney Heritage Village and Museum is stepping back in time with an elegant soirée Saturday, Aug. 6 to raise funds for improvements at the R.J. Haney house.
Once again, Shuswap Chefs owner Rob Sengotta will prepare a special six-course dinner with each course accompanied by the appropriate beverage.
The theme is silent movies and the mood will be set to music by the Stony String Quartet.
The soirée is the brainchild of Cheryl and Gary Cruikshank, longtime village supporters and fundraisers.
As a former board member, Cheryl often gets pressed into volunteering for projects. Gary is the museum’s treasurer and he has a bad habit.
“When it comes to fundraising for events, he is known to say, ‘Cheryl can do that,” says museum curator Deborah Chapman. “Luckily for the village, Cheryl does.”
This year the couple has directed their fundraising efforts to R.J. Haney Heritage House.
They see it as a jewel in the park in need of a bit of polish.
The house was built in 1908, replaced in 1910 after a fire, and resided in until the mid ’80s. It turned 100 last year.
The Museum Association has cared for the structure over the years, replacing a crumbling foundation, furnace, hot water tank, storm windows and a roof. It has also been painted. Unfortunately, maintenance like roof replacement and paint, are repeat projects.
This year, thanks to the City of Salmon Arm, the Heritage Legacy Fund of BC, and a Job Creation Project, Haney House is receiving a new roof, chimney restoration, work on the rafter tails, and a coat of paint.
It is a huge endeavour and funds to complete the project are just a little short.
Gary and Cheryl decided another soirée would be a great way to raise the funds.
Very popular last year, the event features extraordinary food, good friends, in an elegant setting, with entertainment – a sumptuous experience that supports a great cause.
“It was the best meal I’ve ever had,” says Chapman, who dined with friends last year. “I’ve made sure to purchase my tickets early.”
Tickets are $100 and the price of the meal is deducted, with a charity receipt issued for the balance. Seating is limited and tickets are going fast. They are available at the village at 250-832-5243 or by phoning Gary and Cheryl at 250-832-7968.
Other events in the works for summer include the 12th annual Classic Antique Car Show Aug. 14, and a “taster” to be held in collaboration with Table 24 Sunday, Aug. 28.