President's Message
In a previous message, I commented that the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre was too big to remain small. I should have added "too good" to that comment as the NORMHC is such a quality facility with so much to offer to the community that it must grow so that its full potential is realized.
The Board is in agreement with me and has enthusiastically supported the implementation of a strategic plan. The creation of that plan is vital to the growth of the museum. The process will demand a financial commitment along with a lot of committee time and effort for meetings, focus groups, consultations, reports and reviews. We have the board members who are ready to put for the effort. The good news is that through an agreement with CN we have created an income stream that will enable the museum to share the cost of a strategic plan, and still be able to fund some important improvements, repairs and additional exhibits.
As the board moves ahead with a strategic plan that will outline and guide the path of the museum's growth, it is vital that the council and the citizens of the City of Greater Sudbury recognize the importance of the NORMHC to the community. It is no longer a steam engine and a caboose in a park. Countless volunteer hours and many private donations, combined with the generosity of CN, Xstrata, Vale Inco, the assistance of many provincial and federal grants and support from the City of Greater Sudbury has made the museum an important secondary tourist attraction for the area. The NORMHC is also a job creator for students; it is an educational facility; it is used as a research facility; it is a source of pride for the residents of the community; it has a positive effect on the businesses of Capreol and it can be much more.
I realize that those who receive and read this newsletter are friends of the museum and I ask that you continue to support the NORMHC, by attending focus groups, by lobbying federal, provincial and municipal politicians and their funding agencies on our behalf and by lending the support of your businesses or organizations - to being with, there are two 80 foot rail cars that need repairs and painting.
I have to again thank our outstanding board members and volunteers! Fran Michelutti has painted the gift shop and donor wall area and the kitchen; Eileen Thompson had a group in washing the materials used in the tea room and Ken Lynn and Milt Finnamore with the assistance of CN have been able to relocate the box car and have a great start on its renovation. A new television commercial is in the planning stages. It is going to be another very busy year. In my next message I hope to be able to give you some "golden" news.
And, above all, please don't forget to visit us at some point over the summer. We look forward to seeing you and showing you around.
Stu Thomas