VERA donates $5,000 to community theatre
By Paul Crossman
VALATIE — The Valatie Economic Renewal Association (VERA) has had its hands in nearly every project in the village community recently, from family events to fundraisers, but their recent Birdhouse Auction and fundrasier for the Community Theatre on Main Street was their largest contribution yet.
The theatre has been an ongoing project in Valatie for a number of years now, and though the restoration is coming along nicely, there is still plenty left to do. The village plans to continue work on the theatre, which includes several expansions such as a possible reception area and walkway between the upper street and the lower entrance to the theater.
Remi Gaylord, a member of the theatre board, says that they may use the money to reopen the outdoor ticket window that was so popular when the theatre was originally built, and was overjoyed with the money the event raised.
“Thank you to everybody involved,” she said. “It was probably one of the best afternoons we’ve had at the theatre.”
The event — the brainchild of local resident Abby Freinberg — showcased a live auction of the submissions, each uniquely decorated by local artists, nature enthusiasts, and theatre lovers.
“It definitely was our best fundraising event of the year,” said VERA President Jenn Furey. “Without Abby’s insight, the event never could have taken place.”
Community members ranging in age from as low as five to well into the eighties contributed to the event, and many residents crowded into the theatre to bid on and purchase their favorite birdhouses. Everyone involved considered the event a great success, so much so in fact, that VERA was able to present the theatre with a check for $5,000 to assist with the restoration efforts.
“Frankly, their efforts at fundraising for the Theatre were an outstanding success,” said Valatie Mayor Gary Strevell. “I was very impressed.”
VERA is a not-for-profit, community development corporation working with a volunteer group of residents, friends, and business owners to promote, maintain, and encourage the civic, social, commercial, tourism and economic activity in Valatie and the surrounding areas.
Anyone who would like to join VERA, or help out with future events can call 758-7800. Questions about the Summer Concert Series, or other upcoming projects can also be directed to this number.
To reach reporter Paul Crossman call 518-828-1616, ext. 2266, or email pcrossman@registerstar.com.
The theatre has been an ongoing project in Valatie for a number of years now, and though the restoration is coming along nicely, there is still plenty left to do. The village plans to continue work on the theatre, which includes several expansions such as a possible reception area and walkway between the upper street and the lower entrance to the theater.
Remi Gaylord, a member of the theatre board, says that they may use the money to reopen the outdoor ticket window that was so popular when the theatre was originally built, and was overjoyed with the money the event raised.
“Thank you to everybody involved,” she said. “It was probably one of the best afternoons we’ve had at the theatre.”
The event — the brainchild of local resident Abby Freinberg — showcased a live auction of the submissions, each uniquely decorated by local artists, nature enthusiasts, and theatre lovers.
“It definitely was our best fundraising event of the year,” said VERA President Jenn Furey. “Without Abby’s insight, the event never could have taken place.”
Community members ranging in age from as low as five to well into the eighties contributed to the event, and many residents crowded into the theatre to bid on and purchase their favorite birdhouses. Everyone involved considered the event a great success, so much so in fact, that VERA was able to present the theatre with a check for $5,000 to assist with the restoration efforts.
“Frankly, their efforts at fundraising for the Theatre were an outstanding success,” said Valatie Mayor Gary Strevell. “I was very impressed.”
VERA is a not-for-profit, community development corporation working with a volunteer group of residents, friends, and business owners to promote, maintain, and encourage the civic, social, commercial, tourism and economic activity in Valatie and the surrounding areas.
Anyone who would like to join VERA, or help out with future events can call 758-7800. Questions about the Summer Concert Series, or other upcoming projects can also be directed to this number.
To reach reporter Paul Crossman call 518-828-1616, ext. 2266, or email pcrossman@registerstar.com.
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