[Rotary] E. John Robinson Art Raffle

[jkk at mcn.org]

Hi all,

The E. John Robinson Art Auction and Raffle has been a major fundraiser
for more than 35 years. To abandon it totally is a big mistake. The
majority of the income it has generated recently has been from the sale of
raffle tickets and the decision to turn the auction part over to the Art
Center is a good idea. It took much effort to put on the auction,
especially on the day of the auction.

I propose we continue to sponsor the E. John Robinson Art Raffle. It
requires obtaining 4-6 pieces of art, which I believe is possible,
printing a brochure, and having members sell the raffle tickets. I know
this is not popular, but we are a local service non-profit and the members
have to have some participation. John Porter has historically offered to
help in the sale of raffle tickets for other members and it is time that
members took advantage of his help. In some cases they need only furnish
names and addresses of potential buyers and a raffle selling committee
will do the actual mailings. We need the $20,000 that the raffle
generates. Having the Art Raffle associated with Casino Night is not a
good idea.

So what do I suggest we do:

1. Get a General Chair and a Raffle Sales Chair for the event and create
an Art Raffle Committee. John Porter and I are willing to take on the the
duties of the Chairs.  We do need some additional volunteers for the Art
Raffle Committee.

2. Collect 4-6 pieces of "good art". I am confident we can count on
having an Ark donated. Possibly Wheatley Allen would donate a small
piece. I think Janis Porter would support the raffle with one of her
paintings. Perhaps an artist would paint a personal picture for one of
the winning raffle tickets. If we decide to do this I am confident that
we could obtain enough pieces of art.

Where, When and How should it take place: My suggestion is that we have
an art theme dinner at the Ledford House. I am willing to display my
Chagall art at the dinner and we should be able to get a number of E. John
pieces. I have 2. The dinner event would be sold for around $100 per
person and our net from the dinner would be at least $60 after expenses.
The capacity of the Ledford House is 60-70 seats, so our net from the
dinner would be about around $4000. Besides their meal the attendees
would get $50 worth of raffle tickets in addition to any they had
purchased before the dinner. The drawing for the art pieces would be at
the dinner. There is also the possibility that we could live auction off
one piece, perhaps the Wheatley Allen Sculpture during the evening for
additional funds. My suggested date is Tuesday December 2nd.  It is before
the Christmas rush of events. I have tentatively reserved this date at the
Ledford House.  Our cost for the meal will be about $30.  It would start
with a champagne/wine reception in the bar area where all the art would be
displayed.

What is needed for a successful event:
1. A decision to do this and a commitment from the membership to
participate ASAP.
2. Establishing a Raffle Chair. Jerry Karabensh.
3. Establishing a Raffle Ticket Sales Chair  John Porter
4. Collection of the art to be raffled and possibly one piece to be
auctioned.
5. Contacting the Ledford House and setting a menu. Already In the works.
6. Designing and printing a brochure. We have past examples to modify.
7. Do mailings and make personnel contacts to sell raffle tickets either
directly by members or by the committee with names and addresses furnished
by the members.
8. Decorate the Ledford House with an art theme.

I believe the above can be done and should bring in $20,000+ for the
club's commitment in supporting local non-profits and vocational
activities. I suggest that the donations from this event be spent in
those two areas.

I am sure I missed some details, but I believe most are covered.

Let me know your thoughts and any questions you may have.  For a
successful event we need to start soon.  I told the Ledford House I would
confirm the date of the raffle as soon as the club approves it.

    Jerry