CORNING – Corning Opera House Cultural Center announced recent grants received to help repair/replace windows. The first one is from Adams Community Foundation for $30,930 and the second is from Hill Productions and Media Group for $2,500.
The city of Corning gave the building to the nonprofit about 2000. Between 2006-08, some minor repairs were made on the building, which included a few window fixes, mainly to prevent rain and birds from entering the building. During the major restoration from 2010-12, once again some windows were repaired. Some of the early repairs acted like “band-aids” and did not fix the root cause. When glass was replaced in the original wood sash, it was too heavy for the sash, causing the windows to sag and leaving gaps. Left unrepaired, the windows, sills and sashes will continue to deteriorate to the point that water will enter the building and cause further damage to woodwork, walls and floors. Also with the expansion and contraction over time, damage could occur between the brick exterior and interior walls of the building resulting in structural issues.
The window project estimate is $39,530. The board of directors implemented a preservation fee that started in June to be added to every ticket purchased with these funds going towards all future building maintenance. Tickets more than $10 are charged $2 per ticket. Because the windows are painted wood, the plan is touch them up every two years to help protect, maintain and preserve the wood. The opera house is welcoming contributions to help fund the repairs and future maintenance of the windows. Donations can be sent to COHCC Windows, 800 Davis Ave., Corning, IA 50841.
Corning Opera House's mission is to provide a multi-purpose facility to honor the community's heritage and to enhance the cultural experiences through diverse entertainment and educational opportunities. For information about our rental spaces, historic tours, summer youth music camps from July 24-26, monthly opry shows and dancing, and live entertainment, call executive director De Heaton at 641-418-8037. More information can be found at www.corningoperahouse.com or follow the opera house on Facebook.