Only Harding High columns will be preserved

WARREN — The columns that have dominated the facade of Warren G. Harding High School and served as symbol of education in this community since the 1920s will remain standing, but the rest of the building will be demolished.

Putting aside pleas from many residents and alumni in recent months, the board of education voted unanimously Tuesday to reject a recommendation by a board-appointed committee seeking more time to determine how to raise more money to retain the facade, offices and auditorium.

The board’s action came after Anthony Paylavias, chairman of the Harding Historic Respect Committee, asked the board to give it until May 19 to determine what fund-raising efforts can be undertaken.

Although some board members encouraged the committee to continue discussion about preserving the facade, Paylavias said the committee was “effectively disbanded by the board.”

“We fulfilled our obligation,” he added.

Read more in Wednesday’s Vindicator and at vindy.com