The Houlton Community Arts Center recently received a $50,000 donation from York’s of Houlton toward it’s capital campaign.

“To have a local business support this project with such a significant contribution is a true indication that the creative economy is important to our area ,” explained Joe Fagnant, President of the Houlton Community Arts Center Council.  “The future arts center will not only give the music and art program much needed space for education, it will also become the focal point for this very supportive community.  I am pleased that York’s of Houlton has taken this step to change the face of education and the arts for the greater Houlton area.”

“We’re happy to be able to support the Houlton Community Arts Center project.  It’s going to be a real plus to southern Aroostook because it will not only help the students immediately by providing dearly needed space, but it will aid the local economy by adding another element to attract and retain people, “stated Jerry York, Owner and General Manager.  York’s of Houlton has been in business since Gerard York purchased Ralph  L. Berry Co. in 1968.  Jerry and Dick York joined the Ford dealership in 1975.   They expanded the company to include vehicles from Toyota, Lincoln, Mercury, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, Pontiac and Buick for a total of eight franchises.  The dealership then became York’s of Houlton.   

“It is such a boost to this campaign when a local business steps forward to support the much needed project,” said Fred Grant, Co-Chair of the Campaign.  “The major contribution from York’s of Houlton puts the project in the lime light, and drives us in the process of bringing other businesses and individuals on board to join the campaign.”  

On November 6^th, voters will also have the opportunity to support the project by voting yes on the municipal bond question #1.  The Houlton Community Arts Center Council (HCACC) and MSAD #29 school board have collaborated on a $5 million bond referendum that will bring $2.5 million to complete renovations at Houlton High School and provide $2.5 million to the Community Arts Center.  The  HCACC is a 501C3 organization that is charged with raising an additional  $2.5 million in matching funds to go toward the renovation of the auditorium and an addition of 13,000 sq. feet of new construction for a state-of-the-art visual and performing arts center.