Community donations have exceeded the half-way mark in meeting a challenge by Jim and Florence Soper to raise $300,000 for the Soper-Reese Community Theatre. The Sopers will match the $300,000 in donations with a $200,000 contribution.
Soper-Reese Committee Chairman John Ross recently reported that the Lake County Board of Supervisors voted to support the theater with $30,000. “This action by our County officials further demonstrates the recognized need and broad support for the theater in our community.”
Ross also announced that a sucessful “Act III” fund-raising event took place on Saturday, Sept. 9, at Ceago Vinegarden in Nice. “Thanks to the generosity of the Fetzer family and an absolutely elegant facility A Concert Under the Stars” was an evening to remember for all those who attended.
Pianists Spencer Brewer, Elizabeth MacDougall, Tom Ganoung, Tom Aiken and David Neft provided a wonderful concert. Wilda Shock announced a $25,000 gift to the theater project from the Keeling-Barnes Family Foundation. Steve Brookes announced a matching gift of $10,000 from the Priest Foundation. Frank and Irehne Dishaman donated $2,500, Susan LaPointe $1,000 and Tom Aiken, Anthony and Laurie Loumena and Douglas and Arlene Carter $500.
Thanks must also be extended to Ashley”s Restaurant, Patricia Mariego, Re/Max Lake County Realty, Congressman Mike Thompson and the Kelsey Creek Coffee Company.”
Ross reported that local donors have raised $172,000 and asked, “Have you made your donation to your theater project?”
If you would like to contribute toward renovations of the Soper-Reese, the tax-exempt number for donations is 99-809678. For information about sponsorship or to obtain an official pledge form, call 279-4082.
