In 1999, the Huber building in Hicksville – an eyesore, an embarrassment, a problem – was doomed, slated for the wrecking ball, the site to become a municipal parking lot. However, a group of very concerned citizens had another destiny in mind for the Huber. Quickly forming a committee, and just as quickly to gather funding, the group purchased the building, saving it from certain destruction. Then the real work began.
Two decades later, the Huber building has become the crown jewel of Hicksville and the surrounding area. Reconfigured as the Huber Opera House and Civic Center, this stunning, historic structure has been restored and renovated to provide the site for many activities, meetings, performances, and festivities. Tens of thousands of people hours, millions of dollars of donated materials and labor have been poured into the Huber from SO many directions, and the result is inspiring. The Huber is breathtakingly magnificent, it’s dignity and beauty providing an elegant venue for all occasions.
Once again, the Huber needs the support of the communities it serves: the exterior walls, east and west, are in need of shoring up. Earlier restoration efforts put a new brick exterior on the front and front west sides of the building, followed by repair of the rear wall. Now it is time to correct the damage on these remaining walls before more permanent damage occurs.
Work has been contracted to begin in July, but the need for funding has arisen. To that end, the Huber Board of Directors is launching a “FUND THE WALL” campaign. Local historian emeritus, Dr. Allen Hilbert, will be spearheading the fund drive, and has asked that all citizens of Hicksville and surrounding communities join in the effort. There will be many opportunities to participate in fund-raising, and donations will be sought. The Hicksville Development Corporation (of which Dr. Hilbert was a key founding member) has pledged to match the first $25,000 raised.
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, July 11th for the FUND THE WALL Campaign Kick-off! From 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Huber, join Dr. Hilbert and the Huber Board of Directors. Show your support for the fund-raising effort (and help us celebrate Dr. Hilbert’s 99th birthday). Review the progress made to date on our beautiful building, and learn the details of the work to be done. We need the Huber to remain strong – and we need YOUR support!
