2012 Year in Review 6-min VIDEO -also TLC Brochure

Craig Brashear and Rebecca Kelly, dance artists from New York City, as well as homeowners on Silver Lake Road, are leading a project to transform the historic Masons' Lodge, an anchor building in the business district of the hamlet of Au Sable Forks in the Town of Jay, NY, into a new center of creative activity.

Built in 1911 by the Masons, it rises three storeys, located on Route 9N, one of the gateways to the high peaks region of the Adirondacks from the north. The town lies across the fork of the Au Sable River, known for great trout fishing. Now owned by not-for-profit cultural organization, Appleby Foundation, the plan is to renovate and repurpose the building into a center that links the activities of artists, artisans, musicians, actors and dancers, with local businesses for the enjoyment of visitors and residents year round.

Visit the WHAT's NEXT page!

Since acquisition in July 2009, a Steering Committee of leaders from upstate and downstate, and a corps of volunteers was formed to support TLC. Local contributions from individuals and area businesses such as Cold Spring Granite, Community Bank, Stewart's, a NYSCA grant, and municipal support have been key. As one of the eligible businesses the Town of Jay awarded TLC a matching grant of $60,000 in 2010 for building improvement, allocated for asbestos abatement (including the removal of 25 windows!) and restoring the glass store front facade. Both tasks were accomplished by December 2010.

The attractive new store front and showroom gallery and gathering place made a dramatic change on Main Street. In 2013 a new business will occupy the ground floor, and the basement floor becomes available for lease for commercial opportunity, while the upper two floors await renovation for cultural activities in dance, music and art. Progress occurs at the rate of funding.

But the first cultural activities already began in January 2011. The TLC Windows Gallery presented its inaugural solo exhibit by photographer Mark Hobson. Exhibits of works by Arto Monaco, Rockwell Kent, photographer Todd Bissonette, a show of Detroit artists curated by William Dilworth, "Mohawk of the Adirondacks," "and Here Come the Trains, have continued to feature works by local, historical, and visiting artists, and delight visitors and residents. See the 2012 Registration brochure for samples of summer activities film, science and dance activities planned. and visit the What's Next page. For more details, contact us email at tahawus@verizon.net.

A note on the Appleby Foundation: Incorporated as a 501(C)3 non-profit in 1979, its mission is to strengthen communities through participation in the arts and to inspire reflection and imagination. A major activity is the Rebecca Kelly Ballet, a contemporary dance company based in New York City, focused on the creation and professional performances of original ballet, with original programs for youth such as ONSTAGE CAMPS in Lake Placid and Potsdam, and KIDS CO-MOTION. It has brought a variety of programs into many communities in the Adirondacks yearly since 1987.

Learn about RKB's North Country dance activities