BRAVO Capital Campaign infused with impactful gifts from leading North Texas corporations and individuals

Collin County, Texas – August 27, 2009 – New donors to the Arts of Collin County whose combined gifts of $325,000 were recognized  August 27 at a fundraising event hosted by Gary Riggs Interiors.  Nearly 200 gathered to applaud this infusion of contributions to the Arts of Collin County.   

Mike Simpson, Executive Director emphasizes the importance of corporations and families pledging their commitment NOW to make the Arts of Collin County a reality.  Today, construction prices are at the lowest in a decade.  To maximize this opportunity, the Arts of Collin County will go to bid anticipating a lower overall cost of the project thus reducing the total amount required to be raised by the BRAVO Capital Campaign.  Simpson estimates savings between $9 – 12 million dollars. 

“By supporting the Arts of Collin County, the donors recognized this evening are visionaries and advocates for the economic impact and cultural development of our region,” states Mike Simpson. 

Contribution amount and donors recognized include:

$100,000 – Market Street

$100,000 – Oncor

$  50,000 – Strasburger & Price LLP

$  50,000 – Sue and Jim Minyard

$  25,000 – Texas Health Resources 

As a major employer in Collin County, Market Street’s community focus is evident in many ways.  Since their first store in McKinney, Market Street has demonstrated their commitment to the arts and other important causes.  The Arts of Collin County looks forward to a long-term partnership with Market Street and entwining their community spirit and service into the complex.    "One of the greatest privileges we enjoy as a company is to be able to make a positive impact in the communities we serve. With stores in McKinney, Allen, Frisco and Plano, Collin County is very important to the Market Street brand -- we are excited to be a part of the "Arts of Collin County" project and the prospects its holds for enhancing the quality of life for the people of the entire area," states Eddie Owens, United Supermarkets director of corporate communications.

Oncor delivers power to approximately 3 million homes and businesses and operates approximately 117,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines in Texas.  “Oncor is committed to the communities we serve, and is proud to support the Arts of Collin County Arts Hall and Arts Park.” said Michael Baldwin, Oncor Area Manager. 

Continuing Oncor’s commitment is Area Manager, Gerald Perrin, “We are excited to participate in this project and realize the great opportunity it brings to the citizens of Plano, Frisco, Allen, Fairview and Melissa.” 

Strasburger & Price LLP was a founding supporter of the Arts of Collin County with their in-kind gift of filing the 501(C) 3 application for the commission.  "Strasburger & Price takes a long-term perspective and continual investment in ourselves and the community.  We are pleased to make this contribution to the Arts of Collin County and are excited to be a part of this world-class performing arts hall," said Paul Sander, Partner in Charge of Strasburger's Collin County Office.  

Jim and his wife, Sue de Mille Minyard, are strong supporters of the Arts of Collin County and active in the arts community throughout North Texas.    “We have personally enjoyed the performing arts over the years. We have been fortunate to see the positive impact on my children and how they have benefitted from an early exposure to music and theater,” shares Jim Minyard. “We are excited to support the Arts of Collin County and serve on the board to help bring a broad exposure of the arts to our community, which we know will result in a very significant and positive impact,” continues Minyard. 

“A precedent has been set tonight.  The Arts of Collin County is a viable investment in the future of North Texas.  The Commission is grateful for the generosity of each donor this evening and all who have contributed,” states Simpson. 

Progress Report

The three Owner cities, Allen, Frisco and Plano have contributed $57 Million in public bond monies along with up to $3 Million from the Collin County Open Spaces Grant fund.  To date, more $9 Million in private funds are secured from major donors including Craig and Kathryn Hall, James and Betty Bell Muns, AT&T Foundation, Briar Ridge Investment, Stan Graff – El Dorado Family of Dealerships, Mario Sinacola & Sons Excavating, Inc., Texans Credit Union, The Eugene McDermott Foundation, Plano Arts Cultural Endowment, Ebby Halliday, David and Hiya Hoffman, Holcim (US) Inc., Roger and Jeanette Kent, George (Robbie) and Lynore Robinson, Kenneth Sellers, Charles S. Sharp, Jr., Richard Strauss – Lantana Education/Charitable Foundation,  Anonymous, Anonymous - In Honor of George (Robbie) and Lynore Robinson, Atmos Energy, Bank of America, Capital One, Katherine B. Johnson Foundation, Roger Staubach, Muns Family Foundation and several other generous individuals. 

About The Arts of Collin County

The Arts of Collin County (ACC) is a nationally recognized, innovative, public-private partnership to develop a 100+ acre arts park.  Co-owned by the cities of Allen, Frisco and Plano, with operational support by member cities, Fairview and Melissa, the development of the arts park is supported with $57 million in bond monies, $3 million in Collin County Open Space Grant funds, and an additional $17 million financial support from private individuals, corporations and foundations. Located at State Highway 121 and Custer Road, the arts park will be completed in phases, with a 2,100-seat performing arts hall, performance meadow, and hike and bike trails included in Phase One. To contribute and learn more, visit the ACC website at www.artsofcollincounty.org or call 214-495-5810.