LETTER – Thanks to the citizens of Kamloops from the Heritage Society

The Kamloops Heritage Society would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the citizens of Kamloops who have supported the Society and its stewardship of St. Andrews On the Square for the last 27 years. For many Kamloops residents the history of this partnership may be interesting.

The Society was formed by Kate Lawrie and Mel Formanski, both visionaries who saw beyond the dust and debris of an old structure to its potential as a restored and beautiful heritage treasure in our downtown core.

A dedicated group of volunteers included Terry Olson, our demolition guy who worked well into the late nights in the cold and dark. Casey Van Dongen who kept the inspired group of volunteers on track. Sharon Morrison who kept a tight rein on the frugal budget. The Kamloops local carpenter’s union and Nick Ostoforoff who volunteered hundreds of hours of their expertise and labor. Len Hrycan who helped to ensure completion of the project.

Other incredible volunteers who dedicated countless long hours included:  Jordan, Agnes and Bob Lawrie, Gord, Mel, Adam, Jason and Erica Formanski giving of their time from beginning to end. Leon Timm who was available on moment’s notice to fix whatever was suddenly urgent or needed. The angels at Silver Threads who have watched over us through it all. And all the Board members over the years contributed their vision, time and energy to ensure St. Andrews on the Square continued in our hearts as part of our community.

And a flowery thank you to Dawn House and her team who make the beautiful gardens a perfect compliment to the building. And there are a myriad of vendors and crafters who annually contributed to our fundraising. Bernice Mitchell and Erica Formanski have been a driving force for many years creating wonderful events and our successful fundraisers.

Throughout the years, Kamloops residents trusted us to host important events in their lives. Hundreds of weddings, celebrations of life, concerts, meetings, rehearsals, dance and piano recitals, craft and art shows, exercise, cooking and craft classes, assorted community, political and social events, plays and fundraisers.

For the Kamloops Heritage Society, it has an honour to welcome so many groups into this beautiful building. We have been proud to host Artisan Square, Christmas at the Square, Countdown to Christmas and Light Up the Square for the past 20 years.

While The Society, its Board and members are saddened to be leaving St. Andrews on the Square, it is time for us to move forward. We envision new projects and look forward to helping create and support the values of a stronger, vibrant and visible Heritage sector for Kamloops.

If you are interested in joining us in this next phase of our vision for enhancing and showcasing the City Heritage, please call Mel at 250-376-8357 or email kamloopsheritagesociety@gmail.com