15/02/2024
We are sorry to have to announce that the project is over. First of all, we would like to thank everyone who participated in the project as our guests and volunteers. Your participation was central to our initiative, one that made promises to enrich weekends and lives with joys and laughter. We had set out to make this happen for the students and to make the place free from harassment and, in addition, financial access to it. Spearheaded by Daniel, Lolek, Rojus, Celina, and Veronica, we convinced VIA to resurrect the Valhalla student bar—closed years ago due to COVID and other challenges. Our demand was steep: establishing a bar/club where safety, respect, and affordability are fundamental principles, with a specific emphasis on preventing harassment to ensure a secure environment for every student, would be a core pillar. We are pleased to report that our feedbacks are overwhelmingly positive and not a single one has reported being expelled or banned, having to do with what our core values stand for.
But with all the successes, there were rumors. Accusations of financial misconduct with the involvement of the Valhalla managing board have been submitted, somehow saying that there were theft of money from VIA/DSR. To these accusations, we categorically deny, and say no ground to them. We have at all times been transparent and will account to all questions put to us. Despite the gossip, we appreciate the many who have stood by us in support of our integrity.
Closure was not an easy decision and certainly not triggered by any financial strain. Our accounts were in positive balance, unlike the other speculation, through good planning and successful events. As far as our closure is concerned, it has been due to groundless rumors and other reasons which VIA failed to unveil to us. With a great regret, we have to admit that, despite all our hard work and positive effect that we've had on student life both with Valhalla but also almost all events and parties on campus, the support from VIA this semester has been lacking which makes our sad conclusion.
So, leaving this chapter behind, we shall not quit. We are merely trying to see how we could work together with local bars and maintain our end of the bargain of affordable student parties running: forward Valhalla. We hope that VIA will one day reconsider the value of a student bar, especially if student demand resurfaces.
If you have some more questions or feedback, don't hesitate to write on comments or direct. We are truly sorry that we cannot carry on with this project, however, believe in the best and thank everybody for good memories that we've had together. We really want to encourage you to share your thoughts and feedback through comments.