January 15, 1995: "Think big. Think beyond the boundaries of your community." The Geremia Blackie architectural firm, which specializes in heritage buildings, conducted a workshop for MWAC members to help establish the direction of the massive restoration project.

The Arts Centre and events surrounding it will "enrich the community and bring overall community benefits," Norm Blackie said. The two presenters volunteered their time because of their desire to see old buildings preserved throughout the province.

On February 15, 1995, the former Royal Bank building was designated as a Municipal Heritage Site, and became Hamiota's first official Heritage Building. After that, the fundraising and the elbow grease became the major focus.

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