A full moon and ideal weather united perfectly on Friday evening for the Marion Art Center’s annual cocktail party fundraiser. Adding to the night’s perfection, the event was held at a private waterfront home that was complete with a large white tent under which there was plenty of great food, wonderful music, and a terrific turnout.
“This is our big effort to support our mission and promote the arts and help with the preservation of our historic building,” said Cassy West, outgoing President of the Marion Art Center. The newly elected Co-Presidents are Shelly Richins and Michele Letourneau.
“Two years ago, we dedicated our renovated bell tower to Wendy Bidstrup, our past director, and we will re-dedicate it to her during the Arts in the Park celebration on Saturday, July 13,” said West.
Music was provided by the Third Shift Jazz Quartet, which played songs from rock to romance dance tunes.
Hundreds of people came to support the effort that raises money for the Marion Art Center, which has two galleries and a community theater located at 80 Pleasant Street in Marion.
“We are all about education around arts, theater and creativity,” said Letourneau. “We want to thank those who support us and let them know that their donations make such a big difference.”
Attendees Jaimi and Josh Gregory mingled with the crowd and agreed that supporting the Marion Art Center was essential to keep Marion vital. “We are privileged to be here and support the fact that the MAC is for all ages,” said Jaimi Gregory.
“The MAC bridges the community and brings people together and is a cultural center and we want to support that,” said Cynthia Pyle.
Others echoed their reasons for rallying around the Marion Art Center as a community center that brings local people together to enjoy the arts.
The Marion Art Center is open Tuesday through Friday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
By Joan Hartnett-Barry
