The KEEPERS of Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
The KEEPERS of Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
In 2015, friends of Big Top launched a new initiative to help guide and support the organization as it heads into its next exciting chapters. The KEEPERS are a group of fun-loving people who care deeply about the presence of music, arts and culture in the Northwoods. Led by Big Top supporter Don Funk and his wife Abby, along with Big Top Founder Mary Rice, Big Top Board President Kim Ogle, and Big Top Board Member Kimberly West Rymer, the group sought to gather together a group of like-minded folks to provide a financial base for the long-term vision and stability of Big Top Chautauqua. They put out a call in the spring that took a line from the show Keeper of the Light wherein a lighthouse attendant calls out into the darkness,“ Is anybody out there?” They asked lovers of Big Top to heed the call to stewardship of our beloved Big Top Chautauqua, the preeminent purveyor of music and the arts for all of the people who live in or travel to the Northwoods.
We were gratified that indeed there were generous friends who answered that call. Thirty-seven people collectively gave $ 128,000 for the new fund which will be used for future facility and grounds needs. These KEEPERS also gathered at several events during the summer to enjoy the music at the tent, the beauty of Lake Superior and the company of other Big Top supporters. KEEPER Don Funk says he is proud to see The KEEPERS stepping up to take a lead role in preserving“ this iconic destination for the next generations.”
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who answered the call and participated in this new effort in its inaugural year – or should we say, on its maiden voyage to keep with the maritime theme?
Thank you for helping to tend the light that is Big Top Chautauqua!
WWW. BIGTOP. ORG • 715-373-5552 • 888-BIG-TENT 5