when it rains ROOF POURS
Heritage Center seeks support after ceiling collapse
BY LELAND ACKER

Heritage Center k President Kevin Stingley surveys the ceiling damage caused by recent rains and a leaky roof. Operating only on the donations of local citizens and visitors to the center, the Heritage Center does not have the funds available to repair or replace the roof. Mr. Stingley said he plans to get estimates on a new roof. PHOTO: LELAND ACKER

Recent rainfall has uncovered a long-standing problem at the Heritage Center of Cherokee County, the roof still leaks. Kevin Stingley, president, said the roof has been patched so many times it can no longer be patched.

"We're very fortunate that the leaks are not over the exhibits," he said. However, some leaks have been detected in the front part of the building behind the reception counter, Mr. Stingley said.

The biggest leak affected the bathrooms, as water puddled above the ceiling until it collapsed, raining debris inside the restroom and flooding the hallway floor.

"The repairs needed cost money, and when you don't have any, you can't fix anything," Mr. Stingley said.

Mr. Stingley explained that he has not been able to get a contractor to look at the roof to estimate repair costs due to time contraints. He said his plan is to get a metal slanted roof similar to the one over Myra K's installed.

Installing a new roof will be no small investment, Mr. Stingley said.

"About five years ago, they laid a new layer of tar on the roof," he explained. "That cost close to $6,000."

The Heritage Center operates completely on donations.

To raise funds, the center sells memberships and accepts donations from visitors.

The Heritage Center is located at 208 Henderson St. in Rusk.

It is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sundays.