(Monkey Top Saloon - Facebook)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Aug. 24 Fundraising Event

Rebuilding of Monkey Top Saloon: New chapter begins with community involvement

Jul 8, 2024 | 2:25 PM

Community spirit is shining bright in Bentley, Alberta as plans have been unveiled to rebuild the beloved Monkey Top Saloon, which tragically burned down earlier this year, leaving many residents out of work.

Related: Bentley’s Monkey Top Saloon closes after large fire on Monday

Described as the heart of Bentley’s social life, those spearheading the initiative say its absence has been profoundly felt across the town. The owners, Kjeryn and Kevin Dakin, alongside their close friends Rosie and Randy Lunn, have decided it is time to turn despair into hope.

“The Monkey Top Saloon isn’t just ours; it’s Bentley’s saloon,” said Kjeryn Dakin, co-owner of the establishment. Since the saloon was such an integral part of the community, the Lunns and the Dakins say they are involving residents in the rebuild process. “This is an opportunity for everyone in Bentley to contribute to the rebirth of a local landmark.”

The Dakin family (Photo supplied)

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The Lunn family (Photo supplied)

Community Vote and Fundraising Event

To ensure the new saloon reflects the community’s vision, the Dakins and Lunns say there will be a voting session on three proposed concept drawings. The community is invited to voice their opinion at the Bentley Arena on August 24. The owners sat this event is not just a decision-making occasion but also a grand celebration to generate funding for the rebuild, adopting a festive Wild West theme with live music, food, and prizes.

The owners say they want to be able to rebuild the Monkey Top as fast as they can and want to earn money, the way they know how, by putting on a party.

“We will be selling Monkey Top clothing all summer and fall as well to put towards the rebuild,” reads a statement from the owners. “We believe in the Monkey Top and have put our own homes up on the line for it. We have gone as far as we can alone and now we need to do a little more by putting on this event!”

Event Details:
Date: August 24
Location: Bentley Arena, Bentley, Alberta
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets: Available on Eventbright under the name “Monkey Top Rebuild”

Funding Challenges and Community Support

Understanding the difficulties of financing a rebuild, the owners have refinanced personal assets and sought alternative funding avenues.

“Banks are hesitant to lend under these circumstances, especially to restaurants in a small community as we have already faced a couple “No’s” from the major banks. Private lending can go as far up as 9-12 percent right now in this economy. We are trying to earn as much as we can to put as much down as possible to be able to survive after we rebuild. So it’s up to us and our wonderful community to bring the saloon back to life,” explained Randy Lunn.

In the spirit of community support, the Monkey Top’s owners say 10 per cent of proceeds from the event will also contribute to renovating the community hall’s stairs, a much-needed upgrade.

Tickets & Information

Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite or by calling 403-350-7110. For more details, contact the organizer or visit the Monkey Top Saloon’s Facebook page. Group and corporate table bookings are available for those interested in supporting this initiative.

Central Albertans are encouraged to come out, show your support, and help shape the future of Bentley’s former gathering spot.

“Your voice matters, and together, we can make a difference. Let’s rebuild not just a building, but revive a piece of our community’s soul,” say the Monkey Top’s owners.

Related: Bentley’s Monkey Top Saloon closes after large fire on Monday

About Monkey Top Saloon

Monkey Top Saloon has been a cornerstone of Bentley’s social and cultural life. Known for its lively atmosphere, it has hosted numerous community events and celebrations, reinforcing its reputation as more than just a saloon, but a home away from home for many of its patrons since 1993.

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