10/09/2024
This is a copy of the "speech" I gave on Friday during the final night of the pub for the season. I am sharing it so that everyone is on the same page with what was said. Thank you to so many of you who reached out with wonderful comments about the past 20 years at The Boot. And, just to clarify, if the Marina doesn't sell, I will be running it next year, as always, Please share to anyone you think may be interested.
Thanks so much to all of you for being here tonight to celebrate the closing of our 20th season together. And what a year it’s been!
I have something I want to share with you. As you know, I have been interested in selling the businesses and land for a few years now. I have recently listed the properties and businesses with an international broker in Vancouver. They have experience with selling marinas as well as food and dining establishments. We are still at the paperwork stage, but I hope, over the next few months, they will find a purchaser.
But even if they don’t find a purchaser, I wanted to let you know that I will not be opening the Pub next year. It’s taken a lot of reflection, and I have made the hard decision that it’s time to embark on a new chapter in my life. Hopefully, someone will come along bringing fresh energy and innovative ideas to carry the Pub, and the Village, forward in the future.
This year has been incredibly special. So many people have told me how much they love the renos we did before the season started, as well as how much they appreciated the great food and great service. Not to mention all the entertainment. I think that this point in time is a wonderful way to end my tenure as the Pub owner in the Village.
When I opened the Pub two decades ago, I had no idea what the journey ahead would hold. I hoped it would be a place where people could relax, celebrate, and connect, and over the years, it’s grown to be all that and more! We’ve celebrated birthdays, weddings, anniversaries as well as wakes and memorials.
Running the Pub has been an honor and a privilege. I’ve met so many wonderful people over the years – customers who became friends, and friends who have become family. Each of you has contributed to the character and charm of this Pub and I am so grateful for your support, friendship, and loyalty through the years. I would be remiss not to mention my husband Gerry and my sister Liz, who played a huge role in the opening back in 2004 and continued throughout the years to be a big part of the Pub’s energy and spirit! As well, I would like to thank my “new” Jerry for his tireless efforts helping me get my feet back on the ground here. Throughout the years he has become an integral part in helping me run things.
Of course, none of this would have been possible, without my incredible staff, past and present. Their hard work, dedication and support have been the heartbeat of this pub, and I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you!
So, please, let’s raise a glass to the memories we’ve made, the friendships we’ve forged, and the future that lies ahead. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Here’s to the next chapter – for all of us.
I love you all!