ARCADIA, YARMOUTH COUNTY - With the exchange of a deed for a cheque the Municipality of Yarmouth’s transfer of the former Arcadia school to Th’YARC became official on Aug. 30.
“Today’s the day we’re officially open for business,” said YARC president Mitch Bonnar.
Plans for the school include updating the interior and exterior of the building for the addition of two theatres totalling some 10,000 square feet, along with space for other art groups.
One of the first items on a long list for the organization is the renovation of the library upstairs into a community room that can be used on a cost-recovery basis.
“This is not just a theatre and an arts centre, it’s a community cultural centre,” Bonnar said. “We want the place used.”
In keeping with that mandate, Th’YARC is allowing the Yarmouth Dog Park committee to use the former fenced-in playground out front temporarily. The committee has been fundraising for fencing over the past three years to enclose a property on Jarvis Street provided by the Town of Yarmouth.
Th’YARC is also allowing the Tri-County Roller Derby rec team – East Coast Beaches – to use the former school gymnasium as their temporary track.
A few weeks ago, Th’YARC partnered with the Municipality of Yarmouth to allow free water fill-ups to whoever might be running dry in this summer’s drought. As of late August, 4,000 gallons had been recorded by a basement counter.
The Icy Knights program, run by the Jr. A Mariners hockey team, will be using the facility on Wednesday nights. The program pairs hockey players with physically and mentally challenged youth.
“There’s a lot of good space here,” said Bonnar.
“There’s 14,400 square feet on the floor and the same upstairs. If anyone has any use for it or knows someone with need of space… let them know. We need to pay the bills. The heating bill for this place would blow your socks off in the wintertime.”
Bonnar also issued a request for furniture, as well as kitchen appliances and equipment.
“We’re also looking for volunteers for cleaning, painting and other work. We also need more YARC memberships. Whenever you apply for funding, they always look at how many members you have. We’re up to 650 members, I’d like to see 1,000,” he said.
To volunteer, donate or become a member, contact Th’YARC at 902-742-8150.
