Letter to the Editor

Museum thanks DePauw President

Friday, March 11, 2011

To the Editor:

On behalf of the Putnam County Museum, we would like to thank DePauw University President, Dr. Brian W. Casey, for hosting a fundraiser and exhibit preview at his home, The Elms, on Saturday, Feb. 26. The nearly 175 museum members, community residents, and DePauw faculty, staff and students in attendance enjoyed a festive evening that included entertainment, delicious food and drink, and a successful silent auction on select pieces of art.

During the evening, we recognized the seven local residents selected to participate in the Museum's upcoming "Through the Lens" exhibit, including Eli Secrest, Bethany Zeiner, Gretchen Kasting, Rachel Curtis, Tina Johnston, Bruce Henderson and Mike Murphy.

This fundraiser would not have been possible without the support of our event sponsors including The Art Department at DePauw University, Asbury Towers, The Banner Graphic, Bittles & Hurt and Hopkins-Rector Funeral Homes, Collins Evans Real Estate, State Farm Insurance (Therese Cunningham), First Financial Bank, Greencastle Hometown Dental, HBG Insurance and Bonds.

We are very appreciative of DePauw's staff, spearheaded by Betsy Demmings, Erin Confer- Staggers and Julie Snider. They were instrumental in the event planning and execution.

We would like to thank those who provided in-kind donations, including jazz duo: Veronica Pejril (pianist) and Bill Hamm (bassist), silent auction contributors: Laurie Hardwick, Sally Gray, Wall Envy's Vickie Black, the event photography by Greg Rice, and the center pieces from Eitel's Flowers and Gifts. Finally, we'd like to thank the men of Phi Delta Theta for providing the valet parking.

"The Evening at the Elms" was truly a memorable and very successful event. Thanks to all who attended - we appreciate the enthusiasm and support for our local treasure -- the Putnam County Museum!

With sincere thanks,

Rick Provine

President, Board of the Putnam County Museum

Emily Knuth

PCM Board Member

"The Elms" Fundraiser Chair