1987 Ad Hoc Committee on the Arts MinutesCity of Crystal
Ad Hoc Committee on the Arts
The first meeting of th,� Ad Hoc Committee on the Arts was called to order
at 7:05 pm by Mayor Aaker. Members present were: Mr. Chagnon, Mr. Beireis,
Mr. Paulaha, Ms. Benedict, and Ms. Casserly-Kosel. Also present were Mr.
Brandeen and Ms. Hackett from the Park and Recreation Department staff.
Introductions were made and Mayor Aaker announced that Mr. Chagnon will be
named Chairperson. Mayor Aaker added that he is searching for 2 more people to
be added to the Committee. The purpose of this Ad Hoc Committee was discussed
by Major Aaker. The Committee wlflprovide guidance on the types of entertainment
and activities to be scheduled and privide guidance on fund raising and
publicity.
Mr. Brandeen reviewed the facility plans with the Committee. He al,;,:' told
them that a half-time person, Becker Park Manager, was budgetted.
Mr. Chagnon asked about outside groups using the facility. Mayor Aaker and
Mr. Brandeen thought the policy would be similar to using any other city
facility: no charge For residents or non-profit groups. A fee schedule
--� could be developed for groups not meeting those criteria.
The stage entertainment tentative program was reviewed and discussed. Committee
members thought the program had a good variety of entertainment. Mr. Chagnon
asked about the season length. Ms. Hackett replied that the kick-off date
would coincide with the start of the summer program and serve as an event
to start the summer. off. The dates set up were also based on the amount
requested in the city budget, and with additional donations the season could be
extended into the fall. Mr. Chagnon asked about using the facility i;i the spri .,
for school district events such as band concerts (outdoor) or art exhibits
(indoor). Mr. Brandeen thought that that would be possible. Mr. Paulaha
asked about utilizing the inside of the building for programs. Ms. Hackett
replied that no progrEm for exhibits, meetings, etc. has been planned at this
time. t1r. Brandeen added that this space could certainly be available for
these activities.
Some program suggestions were made:
Stage:
dance to
Exhibit:
Lunch time concerts
Musical Operetta/ Comedy
Teen night with DJ
Poetry Reading
Dance Studios to show different types of
different types of music.
Children Concert
Various Art groups displays
The Committee talked about publicity. Ideas included: CATV, local TV and
radio, North Hennepin Post, Mpls. Star & Tribune, and City Newsletter.
Ms. Casserly-Kosel asked about the building sound system. Mr. Brandeen said
that the building is equipped with a complete sound system. Local high
school AV students will be asked to work at the summer concerts.
Mr. Paulaha and Mr. Chagnon expressed concern about an indoor exhibit going
on while there is softball in the park. Their main concern would be that the
softball players would disrupt any visitors to the exhibits. The possibility
of holding jury shows was discussed.
Obtaining sponsors was discussed. .Mr. Chagnon felt the Committee would like
to draft a letter requesting donations. The Committee thought that these letters
should be sent to companies and businesses in the northwest suburbs as the
program will have a regional impact. Ms. Casserly-Kosel felt that it will be
easier to solicit funds after the first season. Also, additional grant sources
could be investigated through the State Foundation Association.
Ms. Hackett informed the Committe of the grant received from the Metropolitan
Council Regional Arts Council. She mentioned that the staff from the Regional
Arts Council is very interested in this group and its efforts as it is a new
concept for cities. It is possible that this Committee and the Becker Park
Arts program could become the regional clearing house for the arts for the
northwest suburbs.
-� Ms. Casserly-Kosel asked about security. Mr. Brandeen said that the Crystal
Police and Police Reserve would be i•n charge of security.
The band "Limited Warranty" was discussed. Mr. Chagnon reported that "Limited
Warranty" has signed a marketing agreement with Daytons, so if Target wanted
to sponsor a concert, maybe they could get them. Mr. Chagnon will check
into this. Ms. Casserly-Kosel thought that additional security would be needed
for a group like that. Ms. Benedict thought that additional restroom facilities
would also be needed.
The Dedication Program was discussed. The June 14 date sounded good to everyone.
Mr. Chagnon thought that dignitaries such as the Governor, Lt. Governor and
other politicians as well as members of the Regional Arts Board be invited.
Other suggestions include the heads of the Walker, Mpls. Institute of Arts and
other arts groups.
Future meeting dates were discussed.
February 9 and March 9.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Rei=pectfully submitted,
Gene Hackett
Recorder
The committee will meet January 12,