In May 2018, the Tweed & Area Arts Council (T&AAC) learned that the main foyer/bell tower at the Marble Arts Centre (MAC) in Actinolite has some structural issues that has resulted in our taking a decision to re-locate upcoming events during the period May to August 2018. The essential work to remove the bell, fix the tower roof, and install a reinforcing floor has just begun, and should be completed by the end of the summer. This will allow the MAC to safely re-open in time for fall events such as the 'Ontario Festival of Small Halls' performances by Barney Bentall and the Mayhemingways on Sept. 14 (http://thefestivalofsmallhalls.com/ ). There is other 'essential' work needed, such as diverting water flow from the roof/driveway away from the building, that does not directly affect public safety. Some additional background is provided below in this 'Update'. In the meantime, we have just initiated fundraising for these unexpected costs.

T&AAC invested $10,000 of its own funds for an expert consultant report to define the structural issues and prioritize them as 'essential', 'necessary' or 'desirable'.

The essential repair work will cost an estimated $25,000. Armed with this knowledge, we have just initiated fundraising. This includes the Fish Fry at 'Art in the Park' on August 4 (see below).

We have already received generous donations from visitors, community members and local service clubs such as the Tweed Lions (see over). As of July 1, 2018 we are at 18% of our goal!

The generosity of the Tweed and area community is quite simply amazing. We very much appreciate the support we have received from individuals and organizations!

T&AAC is a volunteer organization, and membership is open to all artists or those who support the arts. T&AAC is a registered charity; tax receipts are issued for memberships and donations. If you are able to assist us in completing this essential work, it would be gratefully appreciated!

During 'Music in the Park' on Canada Day, Tweed Lions presented a $1000 cheque to the Tweed & Area Arts Council. From left, Lions Harvey Gere, Denis Campeau, Bonnie Stickwood, Kathy Pym, Art Pym, T&AAC Board members Vicki McCulloch and Bob Giguere, Lions Barb McLean, Merline Groskopf and Gord Stickwood. Lion Betty Brinson (not in photo) has been the major organizer behind Music in the Park, and was greeting guests during the photo. T&AAC very much appreciates this generous donation, and all of the contributions that the Lions make to our community!

The annual 'Art in the Park' event at Tweed Memorial Park will not be affected by the MAC closure, and we encourage you to enjoy arts and crafts by many vendors, a Fish Fry by Mike Mundell's Surf and Turf, the Theatre Organic's production of Oscar Wilde's 'The Florentine Tragedy', and a Children's Activity Area. A portion of the proceeds from the Fish Fry will go towards the Bell Tower repairs. Tickets are $15, available at Bush Furniture, the Tweed News, from Board members or at the event.

T&AAC engaged an expert consultant to develop specifications for the work needed to repair the bell tower and to gain an appreciation of the timelines and potential costs to return the MAC to full use. The essential work to remove the bell and install a reinforcing floor has just begun, and should be completed by the end of the summer. This will allow the MAC to safely re-open. The consultant has also identified other 'necessary' or 'desirable' work that will be needed over the longer term, and the T&AAC will be considering that as part of our strategic planning, and will discuss it with the T&AAC membership at the September 24 Annual General Meeting.

T&AAC provided a briefing on the MAC bell tower repairs during a delegation to the Municipality of Tweed Council meeting on June 26. We will keep the community posted on our progress with both the work and fundraising activities. Thank you again for your generosity!