Bank donates to arts center revitalization

4 years ago

PRESQUE ISLE and CARIBOU, Maine — Machias Savings Bank recently presented the Center for the Advancement of Rural Living with a check for $1,000 designated for the ongoing revitalization project for the Caribou Performing Arts Center.  

Members of the CARL board accepted the donation, which will be utilized to bring high quality talent into the region as well as contribute to upgrades at the venue, located at 308 Sweden St. CPAC is the largest performing arts facility of its type north of Bangor, seating over 800.  

Tim Goff, Machias Savings’ Presque Isle branch manager, praised the efforts of CARL to revitalize the performing arts.

“This is the second year that our local bank has supported this revitalization effort.  Both our customers and staff have been excited about acts that have been brought into the area and the ability to see high quality, affordable entertainment close to home.”

Lisa Prescott, board president of CARL and a leader in the project, stated, “Our arts committee is working hard to finalize a lineup of acts for the upcoming year starting in April at CPAC.  We are so excited about the entertainment, which will provide something for all ages and interests. Potential acts include classic rock and roll, big band brass, blues, string quartet, classic ballet, tribute artists, local cultural groups and more.”

Since identifying the need for more exposure to the performing arts in the region, CARL, an all-volunteer, local non-profit organization that seeks to fill gaps in cultural, socio-economic, agriculture and other quality-of-life issues in the area, has taken several steps to ensure that a culture for the arts can be expanded in the region.  CARL has successfully worked on many local needs from the arts to substance use disorder services, homelessness and more.

Those interested in helping in the project are encouraged to contact CARL at 207-492-2375.