Fundraising efforts for center continue

Fundraising efforts for a proposed arts center in Columbia County will continue despite donations falling short.

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Organizers had hoped to raise $100,000 by Oct. 31 for the center but received only $8,100, said Rob Nordan, who is spearheading the movement.

"We're just going to continue to collect money and get the word out," said Nordan, who is also the music director of the Columbia County Orchestra Association.

About 30 people made monetary donations, he said.

After the fundraiser ended, Nordan said he contacted contributors to return the money as promised, but most opted to keep their donations in the fund.

"Every one of them, except for two that I have not heard from, have said, 'We don't want it to end,' " Nordan said.

Any money raised would pay for costs associated with a feasibility study for facility.

Contributions can be made at all branches of Queensborough National Bank.

In August, members of the center's "dream team" discussed plans for the proposed facility with residents and members of the arts community.

Plans for the center include an auditorium for drama, dance and musical performances, as well as an amphitheater. The building could also incorporate an art exhibit gallery and rooms for music and science education.

The total project, planned in four phases, is estimated to cost about $17 million.

Nordan said three entities have contacted him about donating land for the facility, but didn't elaborate further.

Nordan did note the support from West Acres Baptist Church, which will allow his organization to promote concerts at the church with proceeds going toward the arts center fundraiser.

"That's very significant ... to know that there are other groups that are supportive of what we're doing," Nordan said.

Nordan serves as associate minister of music at the church.

The center, he said, could also build upon the sense of community already established in the county.

"We are in a position of leadership in the arts community, for not only the performing arts but also visual arts and a community center, where people can come together and have something that they see as being owned by the community," Nordan said.