Two Salaried Staff Positions Eliminated
By Doug La Rocque
“The decision was extremely difficult, especially because of the individuals and families affected. But it was a necessary, responsible decision as HAYC3 tightens expenses even further while focusing efforts on keeping the Armory open for its current tenants and continuing the conversations already underway with community leaders and supporters about how best to restructure and revitalize the role of the 130-year-old Armory as a viable community center.” Those were the words of the HAYC3 Board of Directors, as they announced on Friday, January 4, that the organization’s after school and camp programs, in addition to their other community undertakings, will be discontinued as of Saturday, January 12.
In its press release, the Board praised Executive Director Aelish Nealon and Business Manager Marie Bushey, and all who assisted them, with “above-and-beyond hard work, dedication and perseverance.”
“It’s a real disappointment.” Those were the words of Hoosick Falls Deputy Mayor Rob Ryan, when asked by The Eastwick Press about HAYC3’s announcement. He bemoaned the loss to the community, and also expressed his concern for the families involved in the after school activities, noting it gave them little time to find alternative care. He was also critical of the former Town of Hoosick Administration under then Supervisor Keith Cipperly, for not purchasing the Armory for $1, when offered to them by New York State.
“The purchase of the Armory by the Town is once again part of the overall discussion as to what is the best way to proceed, but is no means a certainty.” That is according to Hoosick Supervisor Mark Surdam, whose Town offices are currently housed in the building. And although he labeled the discontinuation of HAYC3 programs as “bad news,” he was full of praise for what HAYC3 has been able to accomplish, and the improvements and upgrades to the building they have completed. He is also hopeful that as those discussions with Village and Town residents, as well as community organizations proceed, they will find some answers.
On December 14 of last year, HAYC3’s Board of Directors put out a public appeal for funds, indicating it needed $25,000 by January 1 to keep the programs operating. They indicate in their current press release, that despite many people’s hard work, they fell well short of that goal. The Board added that, “We remain committed to doing what can be done to keep this hub of the community from disappearing. Anyone who would like to join the conversation about what’s best going forward, please reach out to us via email at HAYC3@gmail.com.” Contributions are still needed to continue the march forward — donations can be made online at HAYC3.org/donate or via mail to PO Box 492, Hoosick Falls, NY 12090.