On April 21, 2021 Rotarian and Executive Director of the Paradise Center of the Arts (PCA), Ms. Heidi Nelson briefed the club on the Paradise and its upcoming programs and activities. Since the pandemic, Ms. Nelson highlighted the PCA had its first in-person program in the auditorium on April 16. The PCA’s Gallery also had an opening and both programs were done safely following COVID-19 safety protocols. On May 21, there will be another gallery opening and a visual artist will be performing. Ms. Nelson stated that she expects Community Theater will be performing Frozen Junior opening in June.
Ms. Nelson said that since June 2020 the PCA’s gallery has averaged a new gallery opening every five to six weeks. These are generally broadcast over Facebook Live which allows for interactions from viewers including questions of, and answers from, the artists. Ms. Nelson added that if there are questions on future events that people may call the PCA’s box office at 507- 332-7372.
Commenting on the age of the building, Ms. Nelson said funds earmarked by the City of Faribault for the PCA will be used to renovate two HVAC systems. She went on to explain the PCA’s current financial situation, stressing the desire to pay off the PCA’s line of credit and the existing mortgage for the building. She expects to reduce the existing mortgage by approximately $100,000 prior to asking the City to pay off the remainder of the mortgage’s balance.
Speaking of the PCA’s future, Ms. Nelson spoke of recent fund-raising successes and of the 100 Club, which by donating $2500 will make the donator a lifetime PCA member. By becoming debt free, Ms. Nelson stressed the PCA will be able to become self-sustainable and provide a wide range of programming. She plans on establishing a programming sponsorship effort. Sponsors who donate $10,000 will receive special benefits including the ability to invite staff to events as well as be recognized throughout the year for contributing to the PCA. Ms. Nelson’s goals is to have sufficient resources to be able to schedule programs two and a half years out.
Ms. Nelson reiterated that for the PCA step one is to improve the PCA’s financial situation while step two is to work on long-term programming. Step three is developing an endowment for PCA to make it sustainable for the future. She expressed thanks for the strong community support for the PCA and noted the contributions made by PCA board members and donors. She also praised the staff of the PCA for their dedication and hard work. Finally, Ms. Nelson commented that there are many volunteer opportunities to serve on PCA committees and sub-committees.
