SNBT Donation Brings Crivitz Performing Arts Theatre Closer to Goal
Pictured (left to right) are: Jess Magerowski and Elisa Rollo of SNBT, Bob Berndt, and John Deschane. The check was presented at the site of the future Bob Berndt Performing Arts Theatre.
The Stephenson National Bank & Trust (SNBT) has donated $10,000 toward the $200,000 goal of building a permanent performing arts bandshell in Crivitz Community Veterans Park. The effort is the vision of several dedicated groups, led by the Operation Bandshell Committee, in conjunction with the Village of Crivitz and Crivitz Business Association.
“We did not hesitate when they approached us about funding,” said Daniel J. Peterson, SNBT president & CEO. “It’s just one more way, as an independent community bank, we can tangibly re-affirm our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the communities we serve. We are happy to invest in this worthwhile project and are excited about all the possibilities it will bring to the area.”
The community bandshell and entertainment stage will help accomplish wider goals such as: bringing more music-based activities for people of all ages, attracting new performers and festivals, drawing more visitors to the region, creating a home for fundraising efforts by civic groups, providing space for local schools to conduct community-based activities, and demonstrating a strong sense of cultural and historical heritage.
“All along we’ve been working under the motto of ‘if you build it, music will come!’ because we believe in the value of and positive influence from music and the arts on our community,” said John Deschane, Operation Bandshell Committee Chair. “Our committee had a tremendous amount of faith in the people and businesses of Crivitz to accept the challenge to help us raise the necessary funds to make this dream a reality.”
Appropriately named in honor of musician and longtime resident of Crivitz, the outdoor amphitheater will be called the “Bob Berndt Performing Arts Theatre.” Berndt was band director in Crivitz for nearly three decades before becoming superintendent of Beecher-Dunbar-Pembine Schools. He has always been involved with music, using it as a tool to help area youth develop life skills. Throughout his career he has played in several bands, directed the NEW Concert band, and is currently the drummer for crowd favorite “Daze2Nights.”
It has been a little over a year since the project began with the monumental goal of raising $200,000. SNBT’s generous donation brings that goal even closer to realization. However, with the cost of materials, the committee is mindful that construction costs may increase as well. With the help of local donors, such as SNBT, and other businesses, the effort is backed by an incredible amount of local support. Any person interested in learning more, or donating, can visit the Operation Bandshell page on Facebook.
