A Standing Ovation
In December 2002, PAL Halifax unofficially assists ACTRA Maritimes in aiding longtime Halifax-based actor Joseph Rutten after fire destroyed his home. The following letter was written by Mr. Rutten for the Spring 2003 issue of Actra Maritime’s ‘Dialogue’.
Dear Friends,
As I am now about to check out of my temporary quarters and move into a different apartment, the time seems ripe to express my appreciation for the magnificent aide that was afforded me at my recent misfortune.
On December 4th last, the house where I had been renting the upper story for the past 20 years, caught fire in the basement. The damage sustained caused the property to be condemned as a dwelling, instantly making me homeless.
Our own Maritime Branch (ACTRA) unhesitatingly lent me its support by securing a bachelor apartment for me for the last six weeks. This not only gave me a more than adequate roof over my head, but also allowed me the time and opportunity to find a new apartment.
I dare not contemplate my situation had not this unstinting helping hand been held out to me. I would like to say here that Gary Vermeir and Richard Hatley could not have been more supportive of my needs.
The magnaniminity of the Association is a wonderful thing to have experienced and to be able to remember.
In connection with this particular occurence, I would like to draw attention to the fact that had we the reality of a PAL accomodation within our grasp, grief and excess spending might have been circumvented.
I am truly thankful
Joseph Rutten
Halifax, 30 January 2003
Tags: actra, fire, fundraiser, joseph rutten