Winter Gala's Proceeds Go To Arts Community

It's time to hit a holiday party for the arts.

The Hernando County Fine Arts Council will hold its first Winter Gala this weekend, from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, at Rogers Christmas Village, 103 S. Saxon Ave., Brooksville.

Tickets are $25 and available at all three of the county's Capital City Bank locations. A limited number of tickets may be available at the door.

The event is a festive foray into fundraising for the creative community here in Hernando County, said Mary Jane Russell, the council's executive director. And it's happening with the help of plenty of volunteers and donors.

For example, Christmas Village owner George Rodriguez is allowing free use of the landmark, and a host of businesses and local artists are donating pieces for the silent auction, Russell said.

"It really is a community effort," she said.

Central High School's culinary arts program will cook up and present the hors d'oeuvres. Other local businesses are donating food and wine, as well.

The Hernando Hi-Lites will greet guests with holiday carols on the porch of the Christmas Village's main house, while the Hernando Youth Orchestra will provide classical tunes in the courtyard.

Brooksville businessowner, arts council member and vocalist Scott Tilson also will sing, and harpist Marie Valentine will pluck.

Brooksville businesses have donated items for a silent auction, as have members of the artistic community. Among the items up for bid is a framed piece by award-winning wildlife painter Peter Gerbert.

The Spring Hill Art League has also provided a hefty amount of support, Russell said.

"Gala" doesn't mean black tie, but Russell said attendees can dress to impress.

The arts council is a nonprofit group that aims to bolster the art community in Hernando County. The proceeds from Saturday's gala will go toward the council's artists-in-schools program to help students tap their creative potential. The council also hopes to open an art center and cooperative in the county.

There is still time to get a spot in the program. The deadline is today. A business card-sized ad is $25, with prices going up from there. Call Russell at 754-4788.

If you go

WHAT: The first Winter Gala fundraiser for the Hernando County Fine Arts Council.

WHEN: 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6.

WHERE: Rogers' Christmas Village, 103 S. Saxon Ave., Brooksville.

ADMISSION: $25 per person. Tickets are available at all three Capital City Bank locations: 14302 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill; 7153 Broad St., Brooksville; and 14001 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. A limited number of tickets may be available at the door.

CONTACT: For more information, call Mary Jane Russell, 754-4788.