Thanks to you, we’re making it happen!

Dear Mike:

Last year, you helped us create an unprecedented growth of the Arts throughout northeast New Mexico. Thank you!

Because of your continued interest and support, we achieved many goals during our 2002-2003 season, including the positioning of the Arts as a major component of Raton’s economic development efforts. Tourists and residents alike are thirsty for more, and that’s exactly what we’re going to give them.

It wouldn’t have been possible without you!

2002-2003 HIGHLIGHTS:

• Arts and cultural programming and the work of the Arts & Humanities Council were recognized in Raton’s Comprehensive Plan as key elements for economic growth.
• For the second straight year, the New Mexico Arts Division ranked us third out of more than 40 worthy New Mexico arts programs in line for state funding.
• Season ticket sales for our performing arts series at the Shuler Theater hit 362, a 37-percent increase over last year; four fabulous shows played to sold-out houses, the most in our 15 performing arts seasons.
• A growing local artists’ colony supplying creative work of the highest caliber drew more visitors than ever to the Old Pass Gallery.

This year, we’ve set our sights on raising $20,000. That’s a lot of money for a small nonprofit organization. But there’s a BIG incentive: if you’ll help us hit that target, we’ll be in line for at least $60,000 in federal, state and foundation grant matching funding. That’s a pretty hefty return on every one of your support dollars!

Here are four exciting things we plan to do when we reach that goal:

1. Continue to build our performing arts season with more shows on par with what you’ll find at Pope Joy Hall in Albuquerque;
2. Develop promotional campaigns to attract a diverse range of artists to our area and to publicize all of the Arts centered in Raton;
3. Create a dedicated space in which to offer lifelong arts-based education classes and workshops to everyone;
4. Implement more programs to bring the Arts to public schools throughout northeast New Mexico, including a two-week National Dance Institute residency at Kearny Elementary School.

When you support the Arts in Raton, you’re part of what might be the biggest cultural-development movement ever in Colfax County. When you share a little with us, you share a lot with the community at large and gain the satisfaction of knowing you’ve brought a deeper appreciation of art, culture and humanity to people of all ages.

So once again, we ask for your help. On the enclosed envelope, please check the level of support you wish to provide and mail it along with your check to the Raton Arts & Humanities Council. Your assistance this year will allow us to share with others in the coming year the splendor and diversity of Raton’s growing contribution to the world of art and culture. We thank you in advance.

And don’t be a stranger – I hope to see you and thank you in person at some of our special events this year.

Best wishes,

Sue Fleming
Executive Director
The Raton Arts and Humanities Council Inc.

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