INN-TRODUCING THE NEW: NAVIGATING THE CHANGE AT THE GOLDEN X INN

I think most students can agree that the Inn is one of the best places to be on campus and in Antigonish in general. Not only is it fun with great drinks (especially the beergria), but the energy is also unrivalled on a Wing night or a Friday theme night. It has been deeply missed this semester and I know many StFX students have been eagerly anticipating its reopening. The excitement of this new chapter, however, has been heavily overshadowed by critiques of the recent renovation for the Student’s Union.

Despite the ongoing speculation and debate surrounding the Inn's changes, it is crucial to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of the staff and bar managers who have worked tirelessly to keep the establishment operational. Their commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment has been evident in the countless hours spent addressing concerns and adjusting needs to meet the community's needs. 

The benefits of reopening might not be apparent to all students, but they are not lost to the staff. Sam Robinson, one of the Inn's bussers, expressed his excitement for the return of "real wing nights," which has more than one meaning to many employees. While students lost their favourite Wednesday hangout spot, many of the staff reliant on their paycheques from the Inn, to support themselves, had to make do. With less events going on, the staff had their hours considerably cut to make renovations possible.

The Inn was reliant on the involvement of students at the McKay Room events to keep the staff working. Security Coordinator Cameran Macmillan noted how much the Inn staff appreciated everyone who tried to attend pop up wing nights. Supporting the Inn does not just support the Student’s Union, but the people that work for it as well. 

The transition to the McKay room involved a lot of coordination. From set up and tear down to the revision to be successful, it was a huge change not just for students, but staff as well. It was difficult for new employees, and for those recently promoted to adjust to their new positions in an environment where supplies and procedures were not standard. Bar Manager Shani Darrell sought to acknowledge, “the Golden X Inn Staff for their ability to meet such adaptations,” and commend their commitment the Inn team. The re-opening is not just the bar being back, but a return home for employees.

Instead of being angry that the campus’ favourite spot has changed, I believe we should take a moment to appreciate the time that has been invested in making it that much better. A large sum of money has gone into making improvements to ensure our Wednesday nights are safe and enjoyable as possible. It is easy to harp on the negative, but it seems to me that there is a lot of good things to be celebrated as our semester comes to an end. Being a member of the Inn’s team and speaking with my co-workers, I have been able to come up with some highlights. 

To begin, as Cameran put it, “the 360 bar will be a hit.” For students who have yet to see the renovations, I am certain you will not be disappointed. The space is more sophisticated but maintains “subtle nods to the old Inn.” The bar’s position and size will “cut down on wait times,” Sam says. Bartender Brooke Lawrie noted how the shift of the shooter bar to the back corner is more accessible, making it easier to grab a quick drink and keep dancing than at the old Inn. The higher demand for service has also ensured that staff stay busy. In the words of, busser, Cole Bielski “there is definitely a lot more running around,” which is a welcome change at the Inn after the past semester’s lull. Students can also look forward to new events including a study night on Tuesdays, multicultural events, comedy shows as well as a continuation of wing nights, trivia, and sex toy bingo. 

I, in no way, look to undermine the concerns of students regarding the consequences of the renovations. Constructive feedback is valuable, and the ongoing dialogue allows us to work collaboratively towards enhancing the Inn experience for everyone. But I think it is important for us to appreciate the collective efforts that have gone into this endeavour and continue fostering open communication to build a stronger, more positive, and more resilient community around the Inn.