'Pillar' program for museum

The Eureka Springs Historical Museum Board of Directors unveiled new programs for fund-raising and an art gallery during the annual museum meeting Aug. 26.

"Pillars of the Museum" will be a year 'round fund-raising effort with supporters able to make direct deposit donations.

A registration form is necessary to sign up for the program with the individual's bank.

While the monthly contributions are welcome at any level, a pledge of $50 per month will get the individual an actual pillar, about 30 inches tall, for the home or office. The pillar will have a name plate on it recognizing the contribution.

Participation in the program includes a "Pillar of the Museum" bumper sticker, a certificate of appreciation, free admittance to the museum and most of the museum programs and a 10 percent discount in the museum gift shot.

"This is a way for everyone to be able to help the museum," said Phyllis McGuire. "Rather than making one lump sum contribution, contributions can be made during the year."

"This method often encourages larger total contributions," said Rod McGuire. "An individual may only be able to give $50 total, but at $10 per month, it adds up to $120 per year.

"We have set this up to provide a reliable monthly income source for the museum," he said.

L.J. Smole presented a proposal to create an art gallery and exhibition space on the second floor of the building.

The museum has paintings by the late Louis and Elsie Freund, Glen Swedlun, Tommy Thomas, Glenn Gant and contemporary area working artists.

"We want to have moveable walls, pedestals for sculpture and a variety of ways to display pieces," she said.

"We want to change exhibitions on a regular basis. We want to involve local artists in the museum and have more reasons for visitors to come in as well."

Smole said research on fund-raisers, grants and donations will be done in the next few months. Plans call for the gallery space to be open next spring.

Kathryne Strand, Suzanne Ryan and David Baker were recognized for their years of contributions and service to the museum, primarily as members of the board of directors.

They now become members of the advisory board.

New members of the board will be Joe McClung Jr., Carol Greer and Steve Schmidt.

They join Roanna McDaniels, Sondra Torchia, Nancy Werbitzky, Davis Sisco, Janet Farthing and the McGuires on the board.

Torchia was elected president of the board. McDaniels was elected vice-chairman, Greer as treasurer and Rod McGuire as secretary.

The group discussed plans for the second annual Christmas Ball, scheduled for Dec. 4 at the Basin Park Hotel.

The Jack Mitchell Band from Bella Vista will provide dancing music.

A silent auction will be part of the event as well.

Tickets will be available at the museum, $15 in advance and $20 at the door.