UA offers community music and more
Elected Umbrella Arts board members were voted in on Jan. 18. From left are Juanita Loven, Laura Manson, Matt Esser, Sherry Oliver and Ann Korezyk. (Press photo by Caroline Rosacker)
By Caroline Rosacker
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead.
In a cold evening on Jan. 24, 2014, an exploratory meeting was held at the home of Russell and Juanita Loven in Guttenberg. The mission of the organization was proposed to be an "umbrella," collaborative, cooperative, supportive arts organization to include the broader spectrum of the arts, not in competition with already established organizations and events, but to complement, support and expand on the arts in our community.
Throughout the past eight years the volunteer arts group has accomplished many lofty goals and maintained a strong membership. “We are heading into our ninth year of promoting the arts. We welcomed new members to Umbrella Arts (UA) over the past two years, who are not only really fun people, but are also making significant contributions and impacting our program," says Sherry Oliver, longtime member and current president of the non-profit organization.
UA board members are Sherry Oliver, president; Laura Manson, vice president; Matt Esser, treasurer and Ann Korezyk, secretary. Juanita Loven, outgoing record keeper 2014-2022, will help Korezyk transition into her new role.
"We welcome guests any time to our monthly dinners and one-hour meetings to meet others who want to celebrate local art," said outgoing president M.J. Smith.
River of Music Concert Series
Oliver is grateful for Juanita Loven, the group's visionary. "I was retired and became involved in Juanita's book club. She presented the idea to our group and we ran with it," Oliver explained. "I am a music person, so I brainstormed the River of Music (ROM) concert series. I wanted to provide something free for families, and to encourage local residents to stay in town on Friday nights."
The concert series has grown throughout the years and has become quite popular with tourists and other surrounding communities. "Our live music events are fun for all ages. Just bring a blanket or a lawn chair, something to eat or drink, and enjoy a variety of professional musicians. We provide an extended performance on holiday weekends when our community's population grows with visiting friends, family members and tourists," said Oliver.
Oliver collaborates with Smith when planning the successful event. "M.J. and I work together. She lines up the sponsors that cover the cost of the band – over half are reoccurring, which makes it nice. I seek out the entertainment options that are available within our budget. I support local bands first and then widen my search after that," she said.
The incoming president is grateful for the 18-20 UA members who assist throughout the year. "Everyone pitches in and utilizes their talents to add to the group's success," she said with gratitude. "M.J. did a wonderful job leading our group for the past two years. I will have some big shoes to fill."
University of Dubuque School Bus Performance Series
Umbrella Arts provides scholarship opportunities for Clayton Ridge and St. Mary school students who wish to participate in the University of Dubuque School Bus Performance Series. The ongoing event is open to public, private/parochial, home school and accredited pre-school and day care organizations. Children attending must be at least four years old. "The School Bus Performance Series offers cultural events to rural students at reduced prices. A portion of the proceeds from the ROM series goes toward that. Students get an opportunity to attend the symphony or something spectacular in science," she noted.
Fall Chill
Traditionally, in October, the ambitious arts group plans a Fall Chill Event held at Lakeside Ballroom in Guttenberg. This year's program will include a musical tribute to Billy Joel and Elton John and be held on Saturday, Oct. 15. "We are grateful for the past support from the Guttenberg Rotary Club when planning this yearly event. The event is held at Lakeside and has been well attended throughout the years," says Oliver.
Umbrella Arts has also co-chaired with the Guttenberg Library Foundation for programming. "We were going to co-sponsor a educational event with the library, but the program was canceled twice because of COVID," she sadly reported.
Beautification projects
Money raised and donated to Umbrella Arts has been used to support the group's ongoing beautification of the community's historic downtown business district. "We supported the Limestone Planter Project, and our UA Planter Committee selects flowers annually from various local flower businesses. UA thanks the City of Guttenberg for maintaining and watering all the planters that make our downtown area attractive for local residents and visitors to our town. This year Jessie Eulberg and Joy Meyer, "Roots" owners, supplied, designed and filled the planters with festive, fresh greens and holiday embellishments. We were grateful for their contribution!" she exclaimed.
Umbrella Arts meets on the third Tuesday of each month, with the exception of February and November A communal meal begins at 5 p.m. followed by a business meeting at 6 p.m. Phone 563-252-3462 for additional information.
