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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: December 29, 2008
CONTACT: Chris Wood, President of SOPA
Telephone: 970-481-6630
Website: www.EstesParkTheater.com
Supporters of the Performing Arts, Inc. Entering Phase Two
SOPA is happy to announce a $100,000 pledge from Linda and Jerry Rutledge for the new Performing Arts Center. Jerry and Linda had previously donated $50,000. They are part time residents in Estes Park. The Rutledge gift is predicated on $3.5 million in cash and pledges being secured by December 1, 2009.
Jerry Rutledge is the retired CEO of four insurance companies and federations. He has also served as director of various charitable boards and foundations in Minnesota. As his own family-owned Loveland Heights Cottages at one time and he spent five summers working there, he understands the local tourism industry well.
“We had been talking for some time about how we might give something back to this community that we love so much and which has given our family so many wonderful memories over the last 90 years” said Jerry.
Jerry added that “evening activities for adults are somewhat limited and Estes Park really can utilize a modern performing arts center. There are already numerous organizations doing performances here – and many of them have to scrounge to find an adequate venue for their performances – either the staging area is inadequate or the seating capacity is too small or both. In addition, there are professional musicians and drama organizations that regularly inquire about performing in Estes but there are no indoor venues sufficient for their requirements. Then, too, we have lots of things going on in Performance Park in the summer – think of how nice it would be if we had a place to re-schedule in case of rain”.
“I'm appealing to both full time residents and especially fellow summer residents. If you are a summer resident like Linda and me, and you have availed yourself of all the wonders and adventures that our beloved Estes Valley offers but feel that maybe you have taken a bit more than you have given, then this is the perfect opportunity to give something back. And if you're an avid music or theater lover, all the more reason. If you're lucky enough to be a full time Estes Parkian, the theater will be another excellent reason for folks to visit. And will provide you with new and excellent entertainment opportunities all year round. And if you belong to one of the several talented performing groups in our community, you will have a wonderful new facility in which to share your offerings with the rest of us”.
Those interested in supporting the new performing arts center should contact either Chris Wood at 970-481-6630 or Rene Moquin at 970-586-3905.
“The next few months are critical in securing lead gifts for the center. We are confident that individuals will step forward”, commented Chris Wood, SOPA Chairman of the Board.
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