Old Arkana school house continues tradition of weekend music festival

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The site of the old Arkana school off Highway 201 South continues to be a thriving hub for “back porch music.” Now called the Arkana Community Center, faithful pickers and lovers of traditional music gather every Saturday evening to play, sing and share stories.Jane Rolhleder, who performs at the weekly gathering, says it was a chance noticing of a sign years ago that originally drew her in.

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Music kicks off at 6 and usually runs until 9 with people making the weekly pilgrimage from surrounding areas. Many styles are performed including gospel, folk, and country. Jane’s husband Chuck Rolhleder says the sense of community and fellowship is what is so special for him.

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The community of Arkana at one time boasted over 100 families and the school house has always been an important landmark in the community.

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Mrs. Rolhleder has a family history of musicians. She shares how her father would perform weekly on KTLO AM in the 1950s.

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The public is invited to join in every Saturday, rain or shine, at the Arkana Community Center located at 10407 HWY 201 South.

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