Multiplex taps into bar idea

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star - February 22, 2008

Major changes are being proposed for the Multiplex. Staff presented a list of operational and facility upgrades Thursday to the Greater Vernon Services Committee. “Many of these things are initiated already and in various stages of development,” said Brian Fry, arenas manager. Among the most high-profile suggestions is turning the Grand Room into a sports bar/restaurant. “It would be a go-to place in the community,” said Fry, who envisions the bar being open seven days a week. Fry would like to work with an architect to transform the space at the north end of the Multiplex into a bar with a patio, viewing area and sound, as well as a catering kitchen and a walk-in cooler. Fry’s list also includes strengthening the relationship with promoters, providing more staff for cleaning the Multiplex, purchasing equipment to improve maintenance, building a lunch room for staff and evaluating how event tickets are sold. He also recommends introducing an ice allocation policy that restricts the amount of ice time a seasonal customer can return to be not more than five per cent of their annual reservation package. Fry said there has been a problem with some organizations blocking large chunks of time at the beginning of the season but not using it all. “We want to create some room for more people to get into the building.” The current 14-day return policy for adult sports groups could be extended to 30 days so there is more time to find new tenants, while lower rental rates may be introduced to encourage groups to use the Multiplex late at night. “We want to find room for new customers,” said Fry. Most of the items on Fry’s update list have not been budgeted for, and no action was taken by the GVSC board Thursday.