The Future Of the Armory Grows Brighter
By Doug La Rocque
When the news broke in December of HAYC3’s financial woes that led to the canceling of some programs at the Armory, and the need to abolish the Director and Business Manager’s positions, many wondered what would become of the venerable old structure. Not by magic, but through a lot of hard work by a lot of people, things are starting to come together. The Vice President of the HAYC3 Board, Rick Tinkham tells The Eastwick Press, “we are working on a new concept that will be self sustainable in the long term.” He is quick to point out this would not be possible if it were not for the hard work of Aelish Nealon and Marie Bushey, and the foundation they laid for HAYC3.
The unique sport of “pickleball,” which combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis, played by two or four people, is continuing in the building. The Contra Dances will resume in March, and many of the Village’s St. Patrick’s Day events will be held there as well.
Mr. Tinkham also says the Board has been working with the Hoosick Falls Central School, the Town of Hoosick, and the Village’s civic organizations, to ensure many of the special events that centered around the Armory or were organized by HAYC3 will continue. They are also looking into creative uses for some of the facilities the building has to offer, in the line of special programs and outside business involvement.
It will take time. Mr. Tinkham thinks it will be about a year before the new face of HAYC3 and Armory will completely emerge, but he is optimistic that this new face will greatly benefit the community as a whole.