Tibbits Opera Foundation & Arts Council, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
corporation whose mission is to preserve the historic Tibbits Opera
House, to offer cultural entertainment experiences for the citizens
of Branch County and our region and to provide a cultural stage for
area residents.
Thousands of tourists, area residents and nearby community residents
attend plays, musical acts, summer professional theatre, and community
events at Tibbits every year. In fact, Tibbits is responsible for generating
over $1,500,000 annually into the local economy, is the community stage
for Branch County, Michigan, and is an important regional venue for
experiencing live, cultural and theatrical productions within an hour
radius of Coldwater, Michigan. For our community's children, Tibbits
offers their primary exposure to live theatre and other performing
arts.
The Tibbits Opera Foundation and Arts Council, Inc. fosters enrichment
of life for all people by preserving the historic opera house and supporting
the arts, culture and education.
Doug Bloom, J. Richard Colbeck, Jeff Holbrook, Laurie Ludlow, Brad Parrish,
Ruth Scheidler, Julie Stratos, Connie Winbigler
Annual Meeting Minutes
January 22, 2009 at Tibbits Opera House
(Open to the Community)
Christine Delaney welcomed those attending the annual meeting. In her opening remarks she indicated that, in spite of the economic downturn, there are still lots of opportunities available in the local community. People are staying closer to home and are shopping locally.
Christine introduced the members of her staff: Barbara Miller, Development/Special Events; Jo Summitt, Box Office Manager; Dave Brown, Facility Manager; Judy Latchaw, Accounting Manager; Carolyn Stewart, Volunteer Coordinator and Carol Coyle, Membership Coordinator. Joan Spaulding and Sam Cole are part of the building staff. Charles Burr, Artistic Director, will re-join the staff on February 1.
Christine recognized Ray Sebastian who will be giving up his slot as Treasurer but will remain on the Board as a member-at-large. He will retain his seat on the Executive Committee. Christine expressed her gratitude to outgoing President Erland Gleason for all of his work and dedication to Tibbits.
Earl Gleason proclaimed he was "proud to be a board member". He enjoyed working with the Board, the Boosters and other volunteers because all were working for a common cause.
Outgoing Treasurer Ray Sebastian thanked the Board for allowing him to serve as Treasurer. He recognized Judy Latchaw for her help in compiling the financial data. Ray indicated Tibbits had received a clean audit report from the accounting firm of Rumsey and Watkins. He urged those present to refer to the annual report for a complete financial overview.
Mary Smith and Ken Delaney spoke on behalf of the Restoration Campaign. Ken pointed out the construction of the cupola had begun. According to Ken, the cupola project is a part of the largest fundraising effort to ever take place in Branch County. Mary Smith thanked the board for all of its effort and support. She said each member should proudly say, "I had a part in this!".
Randall Hazelbaker reported the Boosters meet on a monthly basis. Their upcoming fundraiser will involve a raffle drawing for LION KING tickets. They intend to present a second session of the successful "Dancing with the Celebrities".
Shana grife proffered the slate for Board positions. No additional nominations were presented from the floor. Julie Stratos made a motion, seconded by Barbara Mullally, to accept the slate as presented. Motion was carried.
Nondiscrimination Policy
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this
institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin,
sex, age, or disability. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs).
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410,
or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).”
