Annual Report | Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua 2017 | Page 9

The
KEEPERS
of Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
and Abby
The KEEPERS of Big Top Chautauqua
As Big Top looks to the future, beyond the lifetime of our
current tent, we are deeply grateful for the commitment
of The KEEPERS. This fun-loving group supports the
presence of music, arts and culture in the Northwoods,
and specifically supplies financial support for the future
planning of the Big Top Chautauqua organization.
Together, the KEEPERS have invested over $300,000 since
we launched this group in 2015. These funds go directly toward planning for Big Top’s next exciting
chapters, its future challenges, and our continuing Big Top story. This summer we had great fun
together:
• Overlooking the big lake from Marilyn and Bill Van Sant’s lovely home in Bayfield while enjoying a
musical preview of Superior!, hosted by the Van Sants
• Savoring good company, food, and music at Wild Rice Restaurant with our generous host, Mary Rice
• Connecting with new friends and old up at the tent prior to exciting shows like The Beach Boys,
Charley Pride and Mary Chapin Carpenter, hosted by KEEPERS Keith Kylmala, Kevin Hunt, Craig
and Anita Haukaas, and Don and Abby Funk
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And in March, a group of Big Top friends gathered in sunny Arizona at the home of KEEPERS Bill
and Marilyn Hopper. These memories bring smiles to our faces all year, and call us back to Bayfield
each summer for an entirely unique experience. We are grateful to our wonderful friends and
supporters and acknowledge our event hosts for the gifts you provided – all to the benefit of our
beloved Big Top Chautauqua. Thank you!
• Gathering for an end-of-season cocktail reception and dinner, hosted by Don & Abby Funk, before
a spectacular performance by Bonnie Raitt
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