TFAC says it has used only 30 percent of the $1.2 million&bsp; already donated or pledged for the project. The current phase is being funded by donations received over the last 18 months.

&dquo;We have raised $1.2 million towards this project, despite the economy,&dquo; says Marianne Carruth. &dquo;This shows how much support this community has for the arts.&dquo;

The Center will&bsp; continue&bsp; the renovation and expansion&bsp; project as funds arrive through continued pledges and the upcoming Seat Naming Campaign.

The Tryon Fine Arts Center stage has been home to events by Tryon Little Theater, Tryon Concert Association and Tryon Youth Center.

&uot;The theater space has always been about right but it desperately needed a remodel,&uot; said Susie Kocher, President of Tryon Little Theater.&bsp; &uot;From what I&39;ve seen and heard, the updated theater will have a more contemporary feel and move the audience&39;s focus to where it belongs, the stage. We have two shows at the Tryon Fine Arts Center this season and we are looking forward to performing in the newly renovated space.&uot;

Nancy and Pete Mahler, long-time supporters of the Center, were instrumental in turning the &dquo;Mural Room&dquo; into The Mahler Family Board Room.

&dquo;It has been repainted into a wonderful shade of green that is a perfect backdrop for the art on display,&dquo; says Executive Director Chris Farrell. &dquo;The Mahler Family Board Room will still host many local meetings, lectures and maybe a card game or two.&dquo;

The Board Room will showcase both Tryon Fine Art Center&squo;s permanent collection and work by local artists.

For more information, visit the center at 34 Melrose Avenue, Tryon, call 859-8322 or visit www.tryonarts.org.