“If only we can get members out, but some are getting old and don’t get out as much,” said Mr. Whines, whose term ends May 31.

The legion’s dwindling fortunes are dramatically told by the numbers. Thirty five years ago, the Aurora branch had revenue of about $1 million annually and a profit of about $200,000. People dropping by at 8 p.m. on weekends were often unable to find a seat.

Today, you will be lucky to find nine people there on a Saturday evening, unless a special event is happening, he said.

The legion now collects $600,000 in annual revenue and a profit of $10,000.

Some updating has been done to the 40-year-old structure. The main banquet hall was redecorated and the lighting was updated.

But Mr. Whines believes the branch is in dire need of a facelift, but he is not sure where the funding will come from.

It needs new furniture — tables and chairs in the lounge have been there for 35 years — but every time it gets ahead financially, there is something else to pay for, he said.

The legion also needs security fencing. Three years ago, the building was broken into three times in six weeks. One result is a set of doors is still not properly repaired.

The Aurora branch, on Industrial Parkway North, still has 750 members, but part of its fiscal troubles lie in charity work, he believes.

Hall renters sometimes get a discount or no charge.

“Everybody thinks we can be a charity, but I have a building that costs $35,000 per month to stay in the black,” said Mr. Whines, a retired lieutenant colonel and a 37-year member of the Aurora branch.

The legion, created by Second World War veterans, sponsors scouts, cubs and hockey teams, so events involving those groups are free.

One way to raise funds is charging full price to rent the hall for charity events, he said.

Part of the legion’s problem is most people don’t realize anyone — not just veterans or members of the armed forces — can become a member. Even a door-to-door campaign hasn’t changed that, Mr. Whines said.

Mayor Phyllis Morris is convinced a major makeover is needed.

“I think many want to show respect for them (veterans and other legion members),” she said.

“But if the place looks run down, not everyone wants to visit.”

Ms Morris wants the legion to house a military museum and has contacted several reality TV shows in hopes one will renovate the building. None has responded yet.

E-mail rclegion1@bellnet.ca or call 905-841-7999 for more information.