AROUND TOWN: Fine Arts Center's 75th Anniversary Gala

They’re working on the next 75 years.

More than 375 elegantly attired guests celebrated the past but focused on the future at the center’s sparkling anniversary gala Sept. 10.

Coordinated by board chair Martha Marzolf and a blue-chip committee of past gala chairs, the fundraiser brought in $150,000, much of it the result of a heavy-duty live auction filled with unique items including one-of-a-kind jewelry, an Oscar party for 40 at The Broadmoor,  a night at the museum experience for 10 youngsters, a limited edition Chihuly print and a three-foot bronze of  a special son or daughter or grandchild.

Celebrated as “Grand Honorees” were Rich Tosches and Susie Burghart, described as a “funny,” “lovable” couple as well as philanthropists who give their time and money to the FAC. Fittingly, they met while performing at a season-opening gala at the Fine Arts Center.

Among the evening’s memorable moments were a flash mob of young dancers leading everyone from the cocktail reception to the upstairs galleries for dinner and a clever community showcase by local performers and singers. The audience-pleasing and lively showcase was such a hit it could easily have set the pace for the entire evening as an opener instead of the closer.

Receiving kudos for the anniversary gala along with Marzolf were Mary Cobb, Chris Duffey, Lynne Fitzhugh, Mary Flemke, Sue Foerster,  Jennifer George, Sally Hybl, Dr. Anita Lane, Jan McCauley, Amanda Mountain, Cathy Nolan, board member Mari Sinton-Martinez, Betsy Sobral, Peggy Taylor and Jacque Walsh. Honored for their special support of the gala and of the Fine Arts Center were members of the Lane family.

Those serving on the FAC board also include Jim Raughton, Kimberley Sherwood, Dan O’Rear, Gary Bradley, Amber Cote, Mike Esch, Kate Maiurro, Erin Hannan, Beverly Mason, Greg Papineau, Annette Seagraves, Jim Strang, Vic Tise, Blake Wilson, Ann Winslow and Fran Zankowski.

More Photos: http://tinyurl.com/3mpa73l