By Tammy Schneider

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Shoppers hoping to pick up a unique Christmas gift or two at the Victoria Park Gallery may be able to finish their shopping, after finding the Gallery closed for the past two weeks.

Ruth Nicholson, a member of the Gallery, said that many of her colleagues, some of who are seniors, became very concerned as the number of COVID cases began to climb. Because the Gallery is not considered an essential service, the group opted to close for two weeks.

“We are all retired and need to stay away from it,” said Nicholson.

While the doors are closed to the public, there is renovation work taking place, updating the bathrooms and electrical systems. Once the work is done, members will do a thorough cleaning before reopening.

“Christmas is a big season,” said Nicholson. “The plan right now is to open on the second of Dec. and stay open until Christmas Eve.”

Nicholson said the Gallery may extend its hours to allow for more shopping.

Once open, the Gallery, as in past months, will maintain strict cleaning procedures and follow all other recommendations from Public Health.