WIUM Local
(2008-08-29)
A crowd gathered as the building was auctioned off.
The building was auctioned off during the noon hour on August 29. A crowd of at least 75 gathered on the sidewalk outside the building to watch.
The Arts Center ended up buying the building for $114,000. WCIAC Board President Dave Dorsett says that was close to the maximum amount the group was willing to pay.
Dorsett says there's been a lot of community support. The group received donations and pledges for around $87,000 before the auction. Dorsett says the WCIAC is still accepting donations. He says it's important to close the gap between what it's raised and what it paid for the building.
You can listen to the auction and a short interview with Dorsett by clicking on the audio button.
Additional information:
*The WCIAC's goal is to provide a venue for all arts, including theater, music, and graphic arts.
*The group felt it was important to find a home on the Courthouse Square. Members believe the arts center will help the downtown area thrive.
*Dorsett says one of the first things the group will need to do with the building is get a new roof. He says the current roof has been "sadly neglected." The group also wants to remove the metal facade.
*Dorsett says the group wants to move forward with the building as quickly as possible. He says gallery space could open up within the next month or two. © Copyright 2009, wium
