Contributed by The Grace Museum
In every community, there are people who use their gifts to move their city forward.
As you look across the Abilene landscape, you can see the work of architect Rick Weatherl in the restored buildings and resurrected memories that have revitalized downtown and lifted pride in the city. One such building is The Grace Museum.
Since 1909, The Grace has anchored the corner of North First and Cypress streets and has welcomed visitors to Abilene – first as hotel guests and today as museum visitors. It was Weatherl who led the architectural challenge to uncover the historic elements and breathe life into this Abilene treasure.
On Aug. 23, the museum’s annual fall benefit will honor Weatherl for his contributions to the community. The black-tie event provides a significant portion of the operating budget for The Grace throughout the year. The funds raised from this annual event help the museum continue to provide quality exhibitions and educational programs for children and adults in our community and region.
The Grace Museum’s board of directors and friends are pleased to have the opportunity to honor one who helped bring the museum to life and continually serves to improve it. Weatherl is a long-time advocate for the arts in the community.
Weatherl says that “the cultural arts, in all their forms, are important to a community. Cultural arts bring an opportunity to us, to our children and to our visitors that, when combined with our wonderful historical venues, varied outdoor experiences and recreation, simply offer incredibly comprehensive resources for our community. I am proud of these diverse opportunities right outside our own front doors.”
Perini Ranch Steakhouse will again provide the meal for the fall benefit. The Spazmatics will play in the museum’s courtyard. A jazz band will play inside the museum.
The fall benefit also features a silent auction and raffle. The auction is the center of activity during the event, with plenty of competition for the best items. Exclusive experiences, gift certificates, and luxury items are some of the many items generously donated by local businesses. Some of these auction items are only available by attending The Grace Fall Benefit.
Sponsorship opportunities are available and begin at $1,500. Single tickets are also available for purchase. If you are interested in securing a reservation for this event, call (325) 673-4587 or e-mail administration@thegracemuseum.org.
Leave a Reply