What’s Happening at Central Square?

by Cheryl Larson, Central Square and Civic Center Executive Director

Stop by the Second Floor Gallery this week to see the exhibit on display by local resident Tom Olejnicak. Tom has recently discovered a new talent for painting and this is his first ever exhibition. The Second Floor Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10-4 and during special events.

Last chance auditions for the children’s Theater production of Pinocchio are being held Tuesday, June 30, 2015 @ 5pm. “Theater by kids for kids” Ages 7–12 for further information, Contact Penny at: pnhaavig@wisperwireless.com or call 320.424.1179

Summer art and craft classes are filling fast. Only ten spots remain available for the July session. Call our office at 320.634.0400 to register today. Classes for kids ages 6-11 on Wednesday morning from 9-12 noon and on Thursday morning for ages 12 to adult. $40 pays for 4 classes and all supplies are included. 

Special thanks to Shopko for the grant funds given to Central Square’s education program. Due to the generosity of Shopko all supplies for our summer art education program have been paid for. Without the generous support of donors such as Shopko we would not be able to bring educational opportunities to the community at such an affordable rate. 

The all school reunion on July 25th (11-5 p.m.) is fast approaching. We are currently planning for an attendance of 500 people. The cost of producing this big party is growing into the thousands of dollars. We are looking for sponsors and donations to help support this event. If there are any community members, alumni or classes who are able to contribute in any way with a donation it would be greatly appreciated.

Every week I like to share some tidbit of information that I like to call “art facts”. This week’s art fact is given by The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. They report that the arts and culture sector is a $699 billion industry, which represents 4.3 percent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Products—Who would have thought that this is a larger share of the economy than agriculture and transportation. The nonprofit arts industry alone generates $135 billion in economic activity annually that supports 4.1 million jobs and generates $22.3 billion in government revenue. 

Concert Series Season tickets are on sale now. Get your tickets and reserved seating now and save big dollars. By purchasing the season pass you are saving $50 off the regular door ticket price and you get reserved seating. It’s that same as two free shows. Season tickets make great gifts for that person who has everything. Every dollar spent goes back to support arts and entertainment activities in your community. Central Square is a 501-c3 organization and all contributions are tax deductible. See you at Central Square, you’re Community Center!