The Omak Performing Arts Center Foundation completed 2003 on a fiscally sound basis, with plans in place for broadening support of and involvement in the Omak PAC.

A variety of presenting groups representing both schools and community provided a stellar year of performances at the PAC. The year ended on a high note of innovation with "A Christmas Carol," a joint production of Omak and Okanogan high school drama and music students. This first-time-ever cooperative venture between the two schools brought a sizeable audience to three performances. More importantly, it set a precedent for broader community and educational use of the theater. It was a rich experience for all involved. The Foundation board commends directors Marilee Kunkel and David Baker, along with all the students and parents who participated.

Notable community-based stage presentations during the year included the ballet "Cinderella" presented by Lorrie Fraley Wilson and the Children’s Dance Theater, "Hansel and Gretel" under the leadership of the Missoula Children’s Theater, "Oklahoma" by the Okanogan Valley Orchestra and Chorus and "Picnic," a theater-in-the round production of the Pioneer Players (Omak High School drama club).

Other performances included concerts by school groups as well as the Okanogan Valley Orchestra and Chorus and the "Omak Junior Miss" pageant, which plays to an SRO audience annually.

The PAC continues to be loved and used by a broad and diverse community, extending well beyond the boundaries of the Omak School District. The Foundation has not directly sponsored presentations in recent years, committing its resources to maintaining the theater in top performance condition and providing support to presenting organizations.

FINANCES & PROJECTS

The Foundation’s endowment fund, which stood at $132,318 at the beginning of the year, earned $21,686. That handsome 16 percent growth helped offset a low level of donations, $1,082. Donations the previous year were $5,535. The Foundation also benefited from in-kind donations of $4,070 in 2003 for computer, printing and consulting services.

Projects undertaken or completed during the year included repair and upgrading of the exterior marquee and a performance photo gallery in the lobby. The PAC Board matched school district funds for materials to frame and hang quality photographs taken during various performances during the years. PAC technical director David Baker initiated and is carrying out this project.

Foundation board member Kathy Bone conducted a thorough assessment of auditorium seats and memorial plaques. Board member Joe Curry repaired unstable seats and the board approved replacement of damaged or missing plaques.

In addition, the Omak School District undertook efforts to enhance safety and visibility in the theater with improvements to house lighting. Particular attention is being paid to improve visibility in the sloped aisle areas.

PLANS FOR 2004

Performances at the Omak PAC are well received by those who attend. An on-going problem, however, continues to be low attendance. As cost of productions increases and ticket sales wane, it is clear the Foundation needs to step in pro-actively to assist presenting organizations. This kind of activity is clearly mandated by the Foundation mission statement, which directs the board to maximize use of the PAC. Two major strategies are planned:

I. Marketing & Publicity

STAGE DOOR: The Foundation has revived its newsletter, "Stage Door," which will be published on a quarterly basis, to promote upcoming events at the PAC. The newsletter will be distributed free by direct mail and as a hand-out in various public venues.

OMAKPAC.COM: An Internet web page, developed by Tia Wooley, will feature an events schedule, information about presenting groups, and the opportunity to reserve tickets by e-mail.

II. Direct Assistance

PRESENTERS' PORTFOLIO: The board is preparing a "how-to" guide for groups that want to sponsor events at the PAC. Portfolio contents will cover the wide range of what presenters need to know, from setting a budget to developing publicity, from technical issues to crowd control.

FEE ASSISTANCE: The board has developed a policy for assisting presenting groups with theater user fees. The first grant for May 2004 has been made to Okanogan Valley Friends for a classical music concert planned for May 2004. In addition, the school district is reviewing its rental fee schedule to ensure that PAC user fees are equitable and in line with rental fees for other district facilities.

The board has renewed its commitment to growing the Foundation’s Endowment Fund by emphasizing its fund-raising efforts. The Endowment is at the core of the Foundation’s mission to assure that the PAC will be well-maintained and continue to serve the community for generations to come.

PERSONNEL

Reorganization of the Foundation board at its annual meeting in December allowed for continuity as well as introduction of new members. David Lindeblad and Jim Brucker will continue for second terms as President and Vice President respectively.

The board is pleased to have retired banker Charlie Arvidson as its new Treasurer. Linda Black was hired to act as board assistant and will serve as Secretary.

Foundation by-laws stipulate that the Omak School Superintendent or designee serve on the board as well as a representative from the School Board. Robert Risinger, who became superintendent in 2003, quickly demonstrated a commitment to the PAC and service on the board. Dr. Greg Grillo joined the board in December, representing the School Board.

Additional new members are Dayton Edmonds, Jim Kalberer, Esther Rabchuk, and Mary Koch, who was a founding member of the board and is returning. Continuing members are Joe Curry, also a founding member, and Kathy Bone.

Leaving the board after a decade of service was Anita Mayhew, who had been secretary. Her dedication and organizational skills have been vital to the Foundation, and she will be missed.

The board anticipates an active and successful 2004 as it rededicates itself to fulfilling its mission statement: "The Omak Performing Arts Center Foundation exists for the purpose of maximizing the use of the Omak Performing Arts Center, maintaining and improving its physical structure and leading the effort to raise funds for its perpetuity."

David Lindeblad
President