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Published November 02, 2012, 10:52 AM

Phipps announces annual fund campaign

The Phipps Center for the Arts recently announced the beginning of its Annual Fund campaign. The Board of Directors established an annual fund goal of $260,000.

The Phipps Center for the Arts recently announced the beginning of its Annual Fund campaign. The Board of Directors established an annual fund goal of $260,000.

Chairpersons Gary and Melissa Porter appointed the following individual committee co-chairs: Peg Audley, Chris Hjelle, Karen Homier, Traci Leffner, Tom Madigan, and Joan Runnheim Olson, as well as the business committee co-chair Dawn Marquart. There are 42 campaign members from the Hudson area.

This year’s slogan is “Choose for yourself, elect The Phipps in 2012 - become a member today.” The Porters explain, “Let’s face it, election season is upon us and we all want our vote to count. One way you can guarantee yours will count is by supporting our ‘Gem on the River,’ The Phipps Center for the Arts.

“We moved to this community ten years ago and soon realized the true jewel we have here along the St. Croix. With a small yet dedicated staff, and a large and equally committed group of volunteers, The Phipps has become a model for what can be done at the grass-roots level to support and sustain the arts.

“Here are some examples of how members of your community have elected to support The Phipps:

“From July 2011 through June 2012, 20,645 people came to 144 events, including performances, recitals, and gallery receptions. Thousands were attracted to the Spirit of the St. Croix Days and the 24th annual free outdoor concert by the Minnesota Orchestra.

“In addition, 3,313 students enrolled in 304 performing and visual arts classes and another 386 students took individual music lessons.

“Nearly 600 volunteers contributed 44,233 hours of support in 2011, the equivalent of over 21 full-time staff positions. Volunteers annually provide dedicated and talented service in all activities of the center.

“Seventy-two artists generously created new work for the second annual Seriously Fun Art Auction Exhibit and Gala. Proceeds of over $5,000 benefit programming at the center.

“The center currently has 66 members of The Legacy Society who have established named endowments, made outright gifts of $5,000 or more for endowment, or informed the center in writing of estate gifts for endowment. Endowments now total over $1.9 million.

The generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations as well as continued strong leadership has enabled The Phipps to balance its annual operating budget year after year.

“As you can see, The Phipps truly is a Gem on the River. After nearly three decades, it remains a source of pride to everyone who has chosen to devote their time, talents, and energy to support its mission.

“As chairpersons for the Annual Fund campaign, we invite you to join us and nearly 700 others in advancing the mission of The Phipps by becoming a member today. Your gift makes you (and anyone else named on your check) a member of The Phipps.” Members are entitled to enter the Annual Members’ Art Exhibition; receive a 20 percent discount during A Gift by the Hand, the annual holiday exhibition and sale; and vote at the Annual Meeting.

A gift of $35 or more makes one eligible to receive a subscription to Marquee, the bimonthly magazine offering advance notice of performances, exhibitions, and classes. A gift of $85 or more will be recognized in all program covers next season. A gift of $300 or more identifies one as a member of The Phipps Circle, entitling one to invitations to special receptions. As a donor of $1,100 or more, benefits include all those listed plus acknowledgment as a member of The Directors Circle as well as an invitation to the annual recognition dinner and opening night of the summer production.

The Porters conclude, “The Board of Directors established a 2012 Annual Fund goal of $260,000 by Dec. 31. If you believe in the value of the exciting performances, engaging exhibitions, and inspiring instruction that the center offers, please give a vote of confidence by becoming a member today.”

As an added incentive, matching challenge grant funds are available for all first-time gifts or renewed support, as well any increases in support by current members.

For further information about membership in The Phipps Center, call (715) 386.-2305 or visit online at The Phipps

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