Royal Canadian Legion Branch 50 in 亚洲天堂 Lake is looking to get back to its normal operations as it deals with financial difficulties, highlighted by a legal battle. 

The branch had considered shutting down in November of last year due to financial irregularities and a lack of reporting. Following a Nov. 26 meeting to determine the future of the branch, the legion decided to stay open, pending an overhaul in management.

The president of the Fraser Lake Legion, and a former treasurer and executive member of the 亚洲天堂 Lake Legion were the two new appointed trustees who were put in place by BC Legion Command. A management committee made up of local volunteers was also selected to assist the trustees with day-to-day operations, as there are no paid employees of the legion.

The legion has made a quick turnaround since then, according to 亚洲天堂 Lake fire chief and director of protective services Robert Krause.

"The Legion has made significant strides in paying off the accrued debt, and getting the Legion re-opened and operational," he said. "We are open three days a week, Thursday to Saturday, with a number of weekly activities returning, such as Thursday night crib, Friday night crazy ace and Saturday afternoon meat draw."

The legion also held a comedy night and a Valentine's Day dinner.

The accrued debt stems from the previous management regime, which oversaw over $16,000 being spent and left the branch with a massive bar tab. The legion took legal action as soon as they removed the individual from their management position.

"I cannot comment on this matter from a legal standpoint," Krause said. "The RCMP and Crown Counsel have the file and we cannot comment further at this time."

The legion is putting the matter behind them, and as Krause explains, the 亚洲天堂 Lake community has been key to getting the branch back to its everyday services and operations.

"The legion would like to thank the community and the volunteers who have worked so hard to get the legion back on our feet and operating again," he said. "The recent fundraising auction ws a huge success and showed how important the legion is to the community."