Opening of Carnegie Heritage & Arts Center of Greene County delayed

Originally slated to open around Dec. 1, now the opening is set for January with music lessons beginning later this month.

Donna Kluesner, president of the arts center board, explained, "We're looking forward to opening as soon as we can. We've had a few setbacks ... but for a 100-year-old building it's not too bad."

Those setbacks have stemmed from a leaky roof and unexpected work on the flooring.

The leak in the roof was completely unexpected and is currently being worked on and plans for the floor were altered, she said.

Originally, the plan was to rip up the carpet and refinish the first floor, she explained. But the pine subfloor has some cracks that need to be covered.

"We thought we could refinish it. Our plans are now to go over it with luon plywood and carpet squares," she explained.

The gallery rooms are complete, she added. But the entry is not quite finished.

When it comes to putting the finishes touches on the building, Kluesner said that help is still needed.

"We're working with only volunteer labor. We really are needing some help," she explained.

But there is good news: The two music rooms are ready to go.

"We are going to open somewhat for music lessons on the second floor," she said, adding art lessons will be available in January.

Fred Markle, executive board member explained, "It (art center) is a work in progress but we are getting a lot of things done."

Music lessons will begin Dec. 15 -- with the average cost per lesson being $15 per 30 minute session, he said.

"A lot of people have expressed interest in taking lessons," he added, noting that lessons are now being scheduled.

The following music lessons are available:

* Markle will teach beginning blues harp, banjo, mandolin, dobro and intro to fiddle.

* Dusty Miller, of Linton, will teach beginning guitar.

* Kade Puckett, of Linton, will teach beginning to advanced guitar.

* Bobby Williams, of Linton, will teach beginning to advanced piano/keyboard.

To schedule a lesson call Markle's Music at 847-2103.

The next scheduled work day at the center is Dec. 6. If you are interested in volunteering labor, contact Kluesner at (812) 381-2512.

The center is housed in the former Carnegie Margaret Cooper Library building located at 110 East Vincennes St. in Linton.