Limited Tickets Available for The Beach Ball May 6

Ticket sales and table sponsorships have been strong for the 2nd annual Friends of Lake Panorama Beach Ball, which will be held Saturday, May 6. About 40 tickets remain for this fun evening at Lake Panorama National, with all proceeds supporting new sports courts at Boulder Beach.

So far, 29 tables have attracted sponsors, but not all are filled. So there are limited opportunities for groups of eight, six or four to be seated together at a sponsored table. There also is space for one additional sponsored table.

Tickets are $40 each. Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so the $100 table sponsorships and $20 per ticket are tax-deductible contributions. The other half of each ticket purchase goes to the LPN. The value of items donated for the auctions and raffle also could be tax deductible.

In keeping with The Beach Ball concept, casual attire is encouraged. All tables will be decorated with a different theme. The fundraiser will begin at 5 p.m. with a social hour and time to view decorated tables, purchase raffle tickets, and place bids on silent auction items. There will be a buffet dinner at 6 p.m., featuring roast pork loin with mushroom gravy, cheesy au gratin potatoes, sautéed green beans, dinner salad and bread.

Desserts donated by volunteers will be available on a silent auction table. Bidding for the desserts will end as the buffet begins, so winning bidders can pick up their desserts to share at their table. 

Dinner will be followed by a live auction. Some live auction items are a four-ticket package to the Iowa Speedway June 24 NASCAR XFINITY Series American Ethanol E15 250; basketball signed by Steve Prohm, Iowa State men’s basketball coach; Iowa and Iowa State bags board games; a custom-made bags game of choice; handmade wooden bench; Iowa and Iowa State cast iron skillets; Lake Panorama National stay-and-play package; and an LPN pool party.

A wide variety of gift baskets and gift certificates will be on the silent auction and raffle tables. Some other items up for grabs will be a pickleball set and book on pickleball fundamentals; a monthly box of fresh garden produce through the summer; framed prints; two wren houses; potted plants; a two-hour pontoon boat ride; youth skiing lessons; two coin sets; handmade quilt; golf lessons; vintage pottery; and much more.

Another option for donors will be a “Build-A-Court” board where various items needed for the sports courts will be posted, along with the price. Donors will pluck a card from the board and pay for the items that evening. These will include such things as nets, anchor posts, basketball hoops, benches, fencing, or perhaps half of a bench or net.

Those who donate via the “Build-A-Court” opportunity won’t actually be buying the item they choose. This money will simply be additional financial support for the sports courts, and is a good way to show the various components needed to complete this project. It also will give those who aren’t winning bidders the opportunity to help. All donors of $500 or more will be recognized on a permanent sign near the sports courts.

A new system for tracking sales and donations will be implemented at this year’s Beach Ball. Ticket holders will receive a number specific to them at registration, and can use that number throughout the evening to purchase raffle tickets, place auction bids, buy Beach Ball bottomless beer cups, and purchase items from the “Build-A-Court” board. This will allow patrons to pay for everything with one transaction at the end of the evening. Only cash and checks can be accepted, no credit cards.

Donations still are needed for the dessert table, raffle and auctions. Anyone interested in sponsoring the final table, purchasing tickets, or donating an item can email staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. Or call Susan Thompson at 641-755-4382 or 515-240-6536.

RAIN GARDEN INSTALLATION JUNE 10

While new sports courts at Boulder Beach is the current priority project for Friends of Lake Panorama, the charity also is working on a smaller project related to water quality.

On Saturday, June 10, a rain garden will be installed along the east side of the Panorama West clubhouse parking lot. Historically, the prairies and savannas of Iowa held and infiltrated most rainfall, and surface runoff was rare. Rainfall was absorbed and moved down through the soil to become groundwater flow.

Installing a rain garden helps reduce surface runoff and protect water quality. These landscaped depressions capture rainwater runoff, where it is temporarily ponded. Plants in the garden use the water, pollutants are filtered out, and the water percolates down through the soil.

Derek Namanny, an urban conservationist with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, has been working with Friends of Lake Panorama since last fall. He visited Lake Panorama to look for possible rain garden locations, and found the perfect spot at Panorama West.

There is an existing water drain that receives rainfall runoff from the Panorama West parking lot. Namanny designed a garden that will cover 500 square feet surrounding this drain. Some excavation will be done before layers of rock, sand and soil are covered with a hardwood mulch and erosion blanket. Volunteers then will install about 170 native plants, featuring eight to 10 varieties.

Namanny will be at the site June 10 beginning at 9 a.m. to assist with the planting, and provide additional information on how a rain garden functions and suitable locations.

The cost of this rain garden project is estimated at $2,500. In December, the Guthrie County Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioners approved an application from Friends for cost-share funding for the rain garden. The Lake Panorama Association will provide excavation and other site preparation assistance.

Friends already has some funds available for this project, but additional donations are being sought, with a goal of raising $500. The Panorama West women’s golf league has donated $50. Donations, with a note the funds are to be used for the rain garden, can be mailed to Friends of Lake Panorama, Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216.

Volunteers are needed to help with the garden installation June 10. To volunteer, or for more information, send an email to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. Or call 515-240-6536.

TABLE SPONSORS, TICKET HOLDERS AND DONATED ITEMS SOUGHT FOR BEACH BALL

The 2nd annual Beach Ball, sponsored by Friends of Lake Panorama, will be Saturday, May 6, at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. All proceeds will go to the charity’s current priority project — new sports courts at Boulder Beach.

The first Beach Ball in May 2016 raised nearly $24,000, which helped Friends reach its $80,000 goal for a new playground at Sunset Beach.

Now Friends of Lake Panorama has a goal of raising at least $50,000 for the sports courts. So far, $27,000 has been donated for this project. Once Friends raises $50,000, the LPA has committed $50,000. An anonymous donor has pledged another $25,000 for a dedicated basketball court. 

Another successful Beach Ball should make installation of new sports courts possible this year.

Organizers are in the process of contacting 2016 table sponsors, ticket holders and item donors to see if they are interested in helping again in 2017. So far, about 20 of the 30 tables available have been spoken for, but additional table sponsors are needed. 

Table sponsorships cost $100. Sponsors will be recognized in a printed program and with a table sign. Each table of eight will be individually decorated with a different theme. Sponsors can do their own decorating, or a volunteer decorator will be assigned.

Table sponsors are encouraged to recruit up to eight guests at $40 each for their table. Seats not filled by sponsors will be available for purchase by others interested in attending the event.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so the $100 table sponsorships and $20 per ticket are tax-deductible contributions. The other half of each ticket purchase goes to the LPN. The value of items donated for the auctions and raffle also could be tax deductible.

The Beach Ball will begin at 5 p.m. with a social hour that features special drink prices, plus time to view the decorated tables, purchase raffle tickets, and place bids on silent auction items. Patrons also will have the chance to place silent bids on 30 tempting desserts, each at least eight servings, to share with their tablemates. There will be a buffet dinner at 6 p.m., followed by a live auction.

Another option for donors will be a board where various items needed for the sports courts will be posted, along with the price. Donors will pluck a card from the board and pay for the items that evening. These will include such things as nets, anchor posts, basketball hoops, benches, and the fence gate, or perhaps half of a bench or net.   

Donated items are needed for the raffle, auctions and dessert table. Anyone interested in sponsoring a table, purchasing tickets or donating an item for The Beach Ball can email staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. Or call Susan Thompson at 515-240-6536.

The main sports court structure will be a concrete slab featuring two regulation-sized tennis courts with both tennis and pickle ball lines. These courts will be surrounded by a 10’ tall chain link, black vinyl fence. The basketball court will be slightly smaller than regulation size. The concrete will be marked for two half courts, with two basketball hoop systems installed.

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. A sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the courts.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. A donation form is available on the Friends website, which can be completed and sent with the check. Donations also can be accepted electronically on the website at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. All contributions are tax deductible.

SECOND BEACH BALL TO RAISE MONEY FOR SPORTS COURTS

Plans are underway for the 2nd annual Beach Ball, sponsored by Friends of Lake Panorama. The event will be Saturday, May 6, at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. All proceeds will go to the charity’s current priority project — new sports courts at Boulder Beach.

The first Beach Ball in May 2016 raised nearly $24,000, which helped Friends reach its $80,000 goal for a new playground at Sunset Beach. The Lake Panorama Association provided an additional $50,000, and the playground was completed last July.

Now Friends of Lake Panorama has a goal of raising at least $50,000 for the sports courts. So far, $25,000 has been donated to the project. Once Friends raises $50,000, the LPA has committed another $50,000. An anonymous donor has pledged $25,000 for a dedicated basketball court, once the $100,000 level is reached.

The goal of the Friends board is to have the new sports courts installed in 2017, which another successful Beach Ball should make possible.

As was done in 2016, sponsors will be sought for 30 tables of eight. Table sponsorships cost $100. Sponsors will be recognized in a printed program and with a table sign. Each table of eight will be individually decorated with a different theme. Sponsors can do their own decorating, or a volunteer decorator will be assigned.

Table sponsors are encouraged to recruit up to eight guests at $40 each for their table. Seats not filled by sponsors will be available for purchase by others interested in attending the event.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so the $100 table sponsorships and $20 per ticket will be tax-deductible contributions. The other half of each ticket purchase will go to the LPN. The value of items donated for the auctions and raffle also could be tax deductible.

The Beach Ball will begin at 5 p.m. with a social hour that features special drink prices, plus time to view the decorated tables, purchase raffle tickets, and place bids on silent action items. A committee is discussing other fun, fundraising ideas to incorporate into the event. There will be a buffet dinner at 6 p.m., followed by a live auction.

Donated items are being sought for the raffle and auctions. Those interested in sponsoring a table, purchasing tickets or donating an item for The Beach Ball can email staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. Or call Susan Thompson at 515-240-6536.

The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. All contributions are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt.

The main sports court structure will be a concrete slab featuring two regulation-sized tennis courts with both tennis and pickle ball lines. A PowerGame two-tiered surface will be placed over the concrete base.

This modular flooring features a locking system. The five-eighths inch high, self-draining surface stays clean by allowing water, dirt and debris to drain through. The cushioned design provides shock absorption to help reduce joint stress and fatigue.

These courts will be surrounded by a 10’ tall chain link, black vinyl fence. There will be one gate, two nets and support poles. This project is estimated at $125,000.

The basketball court will be slightly smaller than regulation size at 50’ 5” x 78’ 8”. The concrete will be marked for two half courts, with two basketball hoop systems installed. The $25,000 estimated price tag does not include fencing or the PowerGame surface.

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. A sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the courts.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. A donation form is available on the Friends website, which can be completed and sent with the check. Donations also can be accepted electronically on the website at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

While the Friends board has made fundraising for the sports courts its current priority, donations can be made to five other funds or a combination of funds. There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach and Sunset Beach. There also is a Golf Course Beautification fund, which allows donors to choose either Lake Panorama National or Panorama West.

FRIENDS BOARD HOLDS 2017 ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

Friends of Lake Panorama is governed by a volunteer seven-member board of directors. The board held its 2017 organizational meeting December 12, 2016. The meeting was the last one for Kirk Fischer, who was completing a three-year term. He was the Friends board president the last two years.

Kim Lubeck was appointed to replace Fischer, and will serve a three-year term on the beginning January 1, 2017. Lubeck has a bachelor’s degree in business from Buena Vista University in Storm Lake. He recently retired after 42 years as the owner/operator of Panora Oil Company.

Jan Reinicke and Bob McCleeary were reappointed to the board for their second three-year terms. Other Friends board members are Dave Furbush, Jody Muench, Emily Spradling and Tricia Steffen. Susan Thompson is the non-profit’s executive director.

In May, the charity completed a successful $130,000 fundraising campaign that led to the construction of a new playground at Sunset Beach. At its December meeting, the board discussed final work to be completed at the playground this spring, including installation of a donor recognition sign and three benches.

Fundraising plans for the sports courts project were discussed, and it was agreed a 2nd annual Beach Ball will be held Saturday, May 6, with all proceeds going to the sports courts. Board members and a committee of other volunteers will finalize details for the event, with more information to be released in March.

Two smaller projects also were discussed. One is the construction of a rain garden along the east side of the Panorama West clubhouse parking lot. A rain garden is a landscaped depression that captures rainwater runoff. This runoff is temporarily ponded before infiltrating and percolating down through the natural soils.

The Guthrie County Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioners has approved an application from Friends for cost-share assistance for the rain garden. It will be installed in early June.

The other project is to work with the Panorama Community Schools to improve the cross-country trail near Panorama West. A tour of the trail will be held in the spring with representatives of Panorama Schools, Friends of Lake Panorama and the LPA to discuss options, including improved signage and a course map.

It was reported Friends of Lake Panorama now has a Facebook page. Those interested in keeping up-to-date about Friends fundraising and activities are asked to “like” and “share” the Friends Facebook page.

Officer elections were held at the end of the organizational meeting. Reinicke will serve as president during 2017. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa and a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati. She retired in 2008 after 28 years with the Iowa State Education Association.

Furbush will serve as vice president during 2017. Furbush has a bachelor’s degree from Principia College, and an MBA from Washington University. In 2000, he founded Midwest Project Partners, Inc., a financial services industry project management consulting firm.

Spradling will serve as secretary-treasurer. She has a bachelor’s degree in English from Iowa State University. She retired in 2013 after 25 years as a commercial interiors consultant. Prior to that, she was a middle school language arts teacher.

McCleeary earned both bachelor’s and MD degrees from the University of Iowa. He was a practicing radiologist with Iowa Radiology his entire career, before retiring in 2016.

Muench worked in the McFarland Clinic business office for 27 years before retiring. Prior to that, she was a secretary at Rueter’s Equipment for 11 years.

Steffen earned a bachelor’s degree and Pharm.D degree from the University of Iowa. Since 1999, she has been office manager for the Perry Family Dentistry.

Thompson has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Iowa State University. She retired in 2010 after 15 years in communications for the Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Thompson can be reached at 515-240-6536, or staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

SPORTS COURTS FUNDRAISING HALFWAY TO FIRST GOAL

The Friends of Lake Panorama’s mailbox was filled with good news throughout December and the first two weeks of 2017. During that six-week period, $17,000 was received to help build new sports courts at Boulder Beach.

That $17,000, added to $8,000 donated in 2014 for an earlier sports courts proposal, means the nonprofit charity is halfway to its first fundraising goal of $50,000. Once Friends raises $50,000, the LPA has committed another $50,000.

Another piece of good news came in the form of a note from an anonymous donor. Once the $100,000 level is reached, this anonymous donor will contribute $25,000 for a dedicated basketball court.

The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. It received 501(c)(3) status from the IRS in July 2014. All contributions are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt.

The main structure will be a concrete slab featuring two regulation-sized tennis courts with both tennis and pickle ball lines. A PowerGame two-tiered surface will be placed over the concrete base.

This modular flooring features a locking system, so no glues or anchors are needed. The five-eighths inch high, self-draining surface stays clean by allowing water, dirt and debris to drain through. The cushioned design provides shock absorption to help reduce joint stress and fatigue.

These courts will be surrounded by a 10’ tall chain link, black vinyl fence. There will be one gate, two nets and support poles. This project is estimated at $125,000.

The basketball court will be a bit smaller than regulation size at 50’ 5” x 78’ 8”. The concrete will be marked for two half courts, with two basketball hoop systems installed. The $25,000 estimated price tag does not include fencing or the PowerGame surface.

In 2014, Friends proposed renovating the courts at Lake Panorama National, and adding a separate basketball court. While some donors contributed to that project, it didn’t generate enough interest to be viable. Now, the $8,000 from those early donors will be used for this new sports courts project.

The goal of the Friends board is to have the new sports courts installed in 2017. While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. A sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the courts.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. Checks can be mail to PO Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. A donation form is available on the Friends website, which can be completed and sent with the check. Donations also can be accepted electronically on the website at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

While the Friends board has made fundraising for the sports courts its current priority, donations can be made to five other funds or a combination of funds.

There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach and Sunset Beach. There also is a Golf Course Beautification fund, which allows donors to choose either Lake Panorama National or Panorama West. Money donated to this fund could be used for golf course landscaping, benches and pond riprap.

Questions regarding the Friends of Lake Panorama can be sent to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

DONATIONS COMING IN FOR NEW SPORTS COURTS

Building new sports courts at Boulder Beach is the latest priority fundraising effort for Friends of Lake Panorama, and donations are starting to come in. The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama.

The sports courts project got an early boost when the LPA board voted at its October meeting to commit at least $50,000 to new sports courts, once Friends raises $50,000. 

The main focus is a new concrete base surrounded by black vinyl fencing, featuring two regulation-sized tennis courts with both tennis and pickle ball lines painted on the court surface.

PowerGame two-tiered surface will be placed over the concrete base. The modular flooring features a locking system, so no glues or anchors are needed. The five-eighths inch high, self-draining surface stays clean by allowing water, dirt and debris to drain through. The cushioned design provides shock absorption to help reduce joint stress and fatigue. This project is estimated at $125,000. 

It is hoped an additional $25,000 can be raised to also pour a separate concrete pad for a dedicated basketball court. If there isn’t enough financial support for a separate court, two basketball hoop systems would be added to the tennis courts. 

In 2014, Friends proposed renovating the LPN courts, and adding a separate basketball court. While some donors contributed to that project, it didn’t generate enough interest to be viable. The $7,500 from those early donors provides seed money for this new sports courts project.

The goal of the Friends board is to raise enough money to have the sports courts installed at least by 2018. A full-page ad in the December Lake Panorama Times provides details on the project and how to donate. Personal contacts also are being made. 

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. In addition, a sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the sports courts.

Statistics show a high percentage of charitable contributions are made in the last few weeks of the year. Friends of Lake Panorama is a relatively new option for charitable giving, having just received 501(c)(3) status from the IRS in July 2014. All contributions are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt.

Current Friends board members are Kirk Fischer, Dave Furbush, Bob McCleeary, Jody Muench, Jan Reinicke, Emily Spradling and Tricia Steffen. Susan Thompson provides administrative assistance.

In May, the charity completed a successful $130,000 fundraising campaign that led to the construction of a new playground at Sunset Beach. The LPA provided $50,000 as a match for the playground.

Donations for the Sunset Beach playground will be accepted through the end of 2016. Any final donations will be spent on amenities related to the playground. Next spring, a donor recognition sign and two benches will be added.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. For donations by check, clip the “coupon” from the full-page ad in the December Lake Panorama Times and mail it with a check to PO Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. A donation form also is available on the Friends website. Donations also can be accepted electronically on the website at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

While Friends has made fundraising for the sports courts its current priority, donations can be made to five other funds or a combination of funds. Money donated to any of these funds will be used at the discretion of the Friends board.

There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach and Sunset Beach. There also is a Golf Course Beautification fund, which allows donors to choose either Lake Panorama National or Panorama West. Money donated to this fund could be used for golf course landscaping, benches and pond riprap.

Questions regarding the Friends of Lake Panorama can be sent to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Fundraising Begins for New Sports Court Project

The Friends of Lake Panorama board has decided on its next major fundraising project. At its September meeting, the board voted to raise funds for a new sports court, if the Lake Panorama Association board would commit matching funds in advance.

At its October meeting, the LPA board voted to kickoff the sports court fundraising effort with a contribution of $50,000. LPA is providing this initial commitment as a matching contribution, contingent upon Friends raising $50,000.

The Friends of Lake Panorama is a public charity organized and operated exclusively for charitable purposes, and is completely separate from the Lake Panorama Association and Lake Panorama National. All contributions to the nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity are tax deductible.

Current Friends of Lake Panorama board members are Dave Furbush, Kirk Fischer, Bob McCleeary, Jody Muench, Jan Reinicke, Emily Spradling and Tricia Steffen. Susan Thompson provides administrative assistance to the group.

In May, the charity completed a successful $80,000 fundraising campaign that led to the construction of a new playground at Sunset Beach. For that project, the LPA provided $50,000 as a match to the final $50,000 raised by Friends. The playground opened in mid-July to rave reviews from both kids and adults.

Next spring, a donor recognition sign will be erected near the playground, and at least two benches added nearby. Donations for the Sunset Beach playground will be accepted through the end of 2016. Any additional donations will be spent on amenities related to the playground.

The scope of the sports court project is yet to be determined, and will depend on how much money is raised. The main focus is a new concrete base that would feature two tennis courts, with both tennis and pickle ball lines painted on the court surface. The court would be fenced, and may also include two basketball hoops. Or if enough money is raised, a separate concrete pad could be poured for a dedicated basketball court.

Under consideration is adding a PowerGame two-tiered surface over the concrete base. The modular flooring features a locking system, so no glues or anchors are needed. The five-eighths inch high, self-draining surface stays clean by allowing water, dirt and debris to drain through. The cushioned design also provides shock absorption to help reduce joint stress and fatigue.

The location of the project hasn’t been decided, although chances are good it will be constructed at Boulder Beach. The other option is to remove the existing courts at Lake Panorama National, and place the new courts in that same location. LPA staff is gathering information on sports court options, and the topic will be discussed again at the LPA’s November board meeting.

In 2014, Friends proposed renovating the LPN courts, and adding a separate basketball court. While some donors contributed to the proposed renovation project, it didn’t generate enough interest to be viable. Those donors were contacted, and some moved their contributions to the playground project.

Others left their donations in a general sports court fund, in hopes new courts eventually would be developed. The $6,000 from those early donors provides seed money, as efforts get underway to raise at least another $44,000.

For donations by check, mail it to PO Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. Or donations can be accepted electronically on the website at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. All donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. A sign recognizing donors of $500 or more also will be erected near the sports courts.

While Friends has made fundraising for the sports courts its current priority, donations can be made to five other funds or a combination of funds. Money donated to any of these funds will be used at the discretion of the Friends board.

There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach and Sunset Beach. There also is a Golf Course Beautification fund, which allows donors to direct their contributions to either Lake Panorama National or Panorama West. Money donated to this fund could be used for golf course landscaping such as flowerbeds, shrubbery, trees, benches, and pond riprap.

Questions regarding the Friends of Lake Panorama can be sent to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Sunset Beach Playground Opens for Business

In just four days, a semi-load of playground parts and pieces was assembled into a destination playground at Sunset Beach. The equipment was delivered July 8, installation began July 11 and the playground opened for business July 14.

Donations totaling $80,000 given to the Friends of Lake Panorama nonprofit charity made up the base support for this new playground. The Lake Panorama Association provided an additional $50,000. The LPA also provided technical and construction assistance.

The playground is designed to accommodate up to 165 children at a time. The main play structure includes multiple slides, bridges and places to climb. Several smaller play structures surround the main area, including a modern take on old-fashioned merry-go-rounds and teeter-totters.

The playground colors are blue, green and tan. The Friends board of directors chose these colors to represent the blue water and sky, green grass and trees, and tan sand found at Sunset Beach and throughout the Lake Panorama community.

Those three colors led St. Thomas More counselors to develop a twist on the musical chairs game, which campers can play during daily visits to Sunset Beach. As campers move throughout the playground structure, a counselor will call out a color. Players are eliminated based on the color they are standing on at the time.

The playground has proven popular not just with St. Thomas More campers, but also neighborhood children and visitors. Postings on social media have described adults enjoying the playground along with their children and grandchildren.

The $130,000 raised by Friends of Lake Panorama covered the cost of the playground equipment and installation, plus the play surface that is a base of pea gravel topped with wood fibers. Six rubber mats are buried in the wood fibers at the base of each slide to help protect these areas from heavy traffic.

Donations also covered the cost to refurbish a large wooden bench that was moved to make way for the playground. Kurt Johnson volunteered to replace the deteriorated wooden slats with new cedar, which he stained and sealed. He also repainted the metal braces, and installed the bench in a new location just north of the playground in the shade of two trees.

Remaining funds have been set aside to pay for a donor recognition sign, which will be installed next spring near the playground. Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All contributions are tax deductible, and donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt.

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more will be recognized on the sign, and the Friends website. Donations for the Sunset Beach playground will continue to be accepted through the end of 2016. Any additional funds designated for the playground during this time will be used for benches or other upgrades.

The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. The Friends board of directors will meet in September to discuss potential projects and fundraising efforts. Project suggestions or general questions can be emailed to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Limited Tickets Still Available for The Beach Ball May 6

Ticket sales and table sponsorships have been strong for the 1st annual Friends of Lake Panorama “Fun-raiser” planned for Friday, May 6. The Beach Ball will be held at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center, with proceeds used to build a new playground at Sunset Beach.

The Friends of Lake Panorama board has set a goal of raising $20,000 with this event, which will make it possible for the playground to be built this summer. Only checks and cash can be accepted that evening for the many fundraising activities.

The Beach Ball will include dinner, live music, a wine pull, raffle, silent and live auctions, and other activities. In keeping with The Beach Ball theme, casual attire is encouraged. All tables will be decorated with a different theme, and those in attendance will vote for their favorites by putting cash into corresponding jars.

Sponsors have been secured for all 30 tables for this event. About 40 individual tickets still are available. Tickets are $40 each, with half of each ticket going to Friends.

Many items have been donated for the auctions and raffle, but more are needed. Some items so far include four tickets to the June 19 NASCAR XFINITY Series American Ethanol 250, located in the Newton Club, plus fan walk passes and parking; basketball signed by Bill Fennelly, Iowa State University women’s basketball coach; and a tree of choice, planted, from the Wood Duck Tree Farm.

Also, two framed limited edition Terry Redlin prints; two framed limited edition Iowa Ducks Unlimited prints; Iowa and Iowa State University bags games; Iowa Hawkeye cast iron skillet; Coca Cola collector’s items; telescope; several planters filled with summer flowers; gift baskets; two collector’s coin sets; wooden golf ball rack; gum ball machine and more.

Anyone interested in purchasing tickets or donating an item for the auctions or raffle can email staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. Or call Susan Thompson at 641-755-4382 or 515-240-6536.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, so the $100 table sponsorships and $20 per ticket are tax-deductible contributions. The value of items donated for the auctions and raffle also could be tax deductible.

The Beach Ball will begin at 5 p.m. with a social hour that features special drink prices and time to view and vote on the decorated tables. The buffet dinner will be served beginning at 6 p.m.

Donated bottles of wine are being solicited for the wine pull, and will be wrapped so labels aren’t visible. Patrons will buy a numbered cork for $20, giving them the chance to pull a mystery bottle of wine to take home. Those with wine to donate can contact Julie Wykoff at jaallen9@aol.com or 515-778-0053.

The evening will end with live music presented by the RBJ Trio, which specializes in music from the 1950s to the ‘70s. With Rick McReynolds on vocals and guitar, Beth McReynolds on vocals, and Jack O'Leary on vocals and keyboard, the group plays along with digitally recorded drums and bass to present a full band sound.

Friends of Lake Panorama made a $30,000 down payment on the playground equipment in January. The main playground structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller structures surround the main area, including hop rocks, bongo stumps, a merry-go-round and teeter-totter.

Friends of Lake Panorama “Fun-Raiser” is May 6

The 1st annual Friends of Lake Panorama “Fun-raiser” will be held Friday, May 6, at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. Planners have dubbed the event “The Beach Ball” since there will be live music and dancing, and money raised will be used to build a new playground at Sunset Beach.

Friends of Lake Panorama needs to raise about $20,000 more to reach its $80,000 goal. If The Beach Ball raises more money than needed for the playground, proceeds will be used for other projects endorsed by the Friends board.

The May 6 event will include dinner, live music, a wine pull, raffle, silent and live auctions, and other “fun-raising” activities. Donated items for the auctions and raffle are being sought. In keeping with The Beach Ball theme, casual attire is encouraged.

Table sponsorships cost $100. Sponsors will be recognized in a printed program and with a table sign. Each table of eight will be individually decorated with a different theme. Sponsors can do their own decorating, or a volunteer decorator will be assigned.

Table sponsors are encouraged to recruit up to eight guests at $40 each for their table. Seats not filled by sponsors will be available for purchase by others interested in attending the event.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so the $100 table sponsorships and $20 per ticket will be tax-deductible contributions. The other half of each ticket purchase will go to the LPN. The value of items donated for the auctions and raffle also could be tax deductible.

The Beach Ball will begin at 5 p.m. with a social hour that features special drink prices and time to view the decorated tables. Guests will be asked to vote on a “People’s Choice” award for the best-decorated table.

A buffet dinner at 6 p.m. will feature strawberry spinach salad, fresh fruit, marinated vegetables, Chicken Francese — a lightly breaded chicken breast served with herbed lemon butter sauce— and Parmesan garlic potatoes.

Wine lovers will be interested in the wine pull. Donated bottles of wine are being solicited for this event, and will be wrapped so labels aren’t visible. Patrons will buy a numbered cork for $20, giving them the chance to pull a mystery wine bottle to take home. Anyone donating bottles of wine for this game can contact Julie Wykoff at jaallen9@aol.com or 515-778-0053.

The evening will end with live music presented by the RBJ Trio, which specializes in music from the 1950s to the ‘70s. With Rick McReynolds on vocals and guitar, Beth McReynolds on vocals, and Jack O'Leary on vocals and keyboard, the group plays along with digitally recorded drums and bass to present a full band sound.

Those interested in sponsoring a table, purchasing tickets or donating an item for The Beach Ball can email staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. Or call Susan Thompson at 641-755-4382 or 515-240-6536.

Sunset Beach Playground Donations Continue

Another $2,200 in donations was received in the first six weeks of 2016 to support a new destination playground at Sunset Beach. Friends of Lake Panorama now has raised $57,000 towards its goal of $80,000 for the playground. 

The first $30,000 was raised in late 2014 through August 2015. A mailing to LPA members last November announced Friends is working to raise an additional $50,000. The Lake Panorama Association board voted to match that amount if the money is raised no later than August 1, 2016.

Since the first of this year, there have been three $500 donors, and four donors who gave $100 each. Another $300 came from The Port, which hosted a Super Bowl Party February 7, with a portion of the proceeds going to the playground project.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All contributions are tax deductible, and donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt. The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. 

In January, Friends made a down payment on the playground equipment to avoid a 5 percent price increase that would have occurred. Kirk Fischer, president of the Friends board of directors, encourages donors to make a 2016 tax-deductible contribution now so the playground can be installed this summer. 

“We know people often wait until the end of the year to make their charitable contributions,” Fischer says. “But we’re asking past donors to make another tax-deductible donation this spring. And we’re asking new donors to join existing donors to help us raise the final amount needed.”

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. In addition, a sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the playground. 

A special fundraising event is planned for Friday, May 6, at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. Plans include a dinner, raffles, silent and live auctions and live music. If money still is needed to reach the playground goal, proceeds will go to that fund. If that goal has been reached, proceeds will be used for other projects endorsed by the Friends board.

Sponsors and hosts will be sought for 30 tables of eight. Each table will be individually decorated with a different theme. Sponsors will be able to choose whether to do their own decorating, or have a volunteer do this, and participants will vote on a “People’s Choice” award for the best-decorated table. Ticket sales will get underway in March, and donated items are being sought for the raffle and auctions.

The main playground structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller structures surround the main area, including hop rocks, bongo stumps, and modern takes on the old-fashioned merry-go-round and teeter-totter.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. Donations by check can be mailed to Friends of Lake Panorama, PO Box 488, Panora, IA 50216. Donations also can be accepted electronically on the Friends website. 

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

In addition to the Sunset Beach playground, donations also can be made to six separate funds or a combination of funds. There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach, Sunset Beach, Panorama West, and Lake Panorama National. Money donated to these will be used at the discretion of the Friends board.

Questions or suggestions can be emailed to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. The website is www.friendsoflakepanorama.org. 

Donations to Sunset Beach Playground Halfway to Goal

A new destination playground at Sunset Beach is getting closer to being a reality in 2016, with the help of a surge of donations at the end of 2015. Donations to the Friends of Lake Panorama in support of the new playground now stand at $55,000.

The first $30,000 was raised in late 2014 and through August of 2015. In mid-November, a special mailing to LPA members announced the Friends nonprofit is working to raise an additional $50,000. The Lake Panorama Association board has pledged to match that amount if the money is raised no later than August 1, 2016.

So far, the November mailing has brought in about $25,000, with 85 different donors making contributions to the playground. About a dozen of those made playground donations in both 2014 and 2015. The largest donors to date are Dan and Melissa Pflieger, who gave $10,000 over a two-year period.

Kirk Fischer, president of the Friends of Lake Panorama board of directors, encourages donors to make a 2016 tax-deductible contribution now so the playground can be installed in 2016.

“We know people often wait until the end of the year to make their charitable contributions,” Fischer says. “We also know those who have already donated want to see it completed as soon as possible. So we’re asking past donors to make another tax-deductible donation this spring. And we’re asking new donors to join existing donors to help us raise the final $25,000.”

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. In addition, a sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the playground.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All contributions are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt. The Friends nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and has a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama.

The main playground structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller structures surround the main area, including hop rocks, bongo stumps, and modern takes on the old-fashioned merry-go-round and teeter-totter.

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. For donations by check, the mailing included a form that can be completed and returned with a check. The Friends of Lake Panorama mailing address is PO Box 488, Panora, IA 50216. A donation form also is available on the Friends website, where donations also can be accepted electronically.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

In addition to the Sunset Beach playground, donations also can be made to six separate funds or a combination of funds. There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach, Sunset Beach, Panorama West, and Lake Panorama National. Money donated to these will be used at the discretion of the Friends board.

Questions regarding the Friends of Lake Panorama can be emailed to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org. The website is www.friendsoflakepanorama.org. 

Two Friends Fundraising Events Scheduled

Two special events to raise money for Friends of Lake Panorama are planned for this spring. A Super Bowl Party will be held at The Port on Sunday, February 7. On Friday, May 6, a dinner with live music will be held at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center.

First up is the Super Bowl Party at The Port, with a portion of the proceeds going to support the Sunset Beach playground. Paul Wendl, a past owner of The Port, has been working there part-time since last spring.

“We used to have a private Super Bowl party for our friends and always had a great time. I got to thinking we could do something similar, but open it to the public, and raise money for the playground,” he says.

The Port’s usual Sunday brunch will be served earlier in the day. The doors will reopen at 4 p.m. for the fundraising event. Admission is $10 per person. A potato bar with multiple toppings will be included in the admission fee.

Kickoff for the football game is 5:30 p.m., and the game will be available on four televisions. There will be a cash bar, and door prize drawings will be held throughout the evening. For those who don’t care about the game, but want to enjoy the social time, tables will be available for card players and conversation.

The Friends of Lake Panorama will have a table set-up with donor forms and a display showing the Sunset Beach playground. Some members of the volunteer Friends board will be in assisting with the event, and available to answer questions about the playground or other activities of the nonprofit charity.

Preliminary plans for the May 6 fundraiser include a dinner, raffle, silent and live auctions, and live music. If money still is needed to reach the $50,000 playground goal, proceeds will go to that fund. If that goal has been reached, proceeds will be used for other projects endorsed by the Friends board.

Sponsors and hosts will be sought for 30 tables of eight. Each table will be individually decorated with a different theme. Sponsors will be able to choose whether to do their own decorating, or have a volunteer do this. This idea for decorated tables comes from a successful fundraising event in Ogden. Participants will be asked to vote on a “People’s Choice” award for the best-decorated table.

Details will be finalized over the next six weeks, and ticket sales will get underway in March. Donated items are being sought for the raffle and auctions. Anyone with items to donate, or who wants to volunteer as a table host, sponsor or decorator, can send an email to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Playground Donations Surpass $40,000 Mark

Donations to the Friends of Lake Panorama in support of a new playground at Sunset Beach now stand at more than $40,000. The first $30,000 was raised in late 2014 and through August of this year.

In mid-November, a special mailing to LPA members announced the nonprofit Friends group is working to raise an additional $50,000. The Lake Panorama Association board has pledged to match that amount if the money is raised by August 1, 2016.

So far, the mailing has brought in about $10,000. Lake Panorama Realty donated $2,500. Dave Wagler, a broker and Realtor with Lake Panorama Realty, says he and real estate agent Laura Kemble decided to make this donation for several reasons.

“We both live in this community, and are grateful for the Lake Panorama membership so wanted to contribute to this important project,” Wagler says. “Also, it is important to us that our community be appealing to potential home buyers. This new playground at Sunset Beach will add yet another amenity to attract new home buyers, as well as help support property values.”

While donations of all sizes are welcome, only donors of $500 or more are recognized on the Friends website. In addition, a sign listing these larger donors will be erected near the playground.

Kirk Fischer is one of seven volunteers serving on the Friends board of directors, and is in his second year as board president. He says one reason the Friends board plans to build this new playground is to provide families who are boating on busy weekends a fun place to get off the water for a while, while still enjoying their time on Lake Panorama.

The main play structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller structures surround the main area, including hop rocks, bongo stumps, and modern takes on the old-fashioned merry-go-round and teeter-totter.

“We’re hoping a wide range of Lake Panorama members, as well as friends, family and area businesses will donate to this new playground,” Fischer says. “To help make sure we don’t miss out on the matching funds from the LPA, perhaps donors will want to split their contribution, making a 2015 tax-deductible contribution now, and a 2016 tax-deductible contribution in January.”

Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. For donations by check, the mailing includes a form that can be completed and returned with a check. A donation form also is available on the Friends website, and donations can be accepted electronically.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

In addition to the Sunset Beach playground, donations also can be made to six separate funds or a combination of funds. There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach, Sunset Beach, Panorama West, and Lake Panorama National. Money donated to these will be used at the discretion of the Friends board.

Questions regarding the Friends of Lake Panorama can be emailed to staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Friends of Lake Panorama Making Push for Sunset Playground Donations

Statistics show a high percentage of charitable contributions are made in the last few weeks of the year. Friends of Lake Panorama is a relatively new option for charitable giving, having just received 501(c)(3) status from the IRS in July 2014.

The nonprofit is separate from the Lake Panorama Association, and is operated by a seven-member board of volunteers who are LPA members. The group’s goal is to improve recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. All contributions are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt.

Members of the Friends board attended the October meeting of the LPA Board of Directors. Kirk Fischer, president of the Friends board, provided an update on activities, including the fact the group has raised $30,000 from 47 donors for a destination playground at Sunset Beach.

Fischer asked the LPA board to consider a matching grant in its 2016 capital budget for the playground. He asked if Friends raised another $50,000 for the playground, would the LPA match that amount. After discussion, the LPA board gave unanimous approval to provide $50,000 if Friends raises $50,000 by August 1, 2016.

LPA members should already have received a mailing from Friends with information on the Sunset Beach playground. The playground is geared to ages 5 through 12, and has a play capacity of 165. The area covered by play equipment will be 60'x53' with a larger protective surface area of 72'x66'.

The main play structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller play structures surround the main area, including hop rocks, bongo stumps, and modern takes on the old-fashioned merry-go-round and teeter-totter.

Fischer says the goal of the Friends board is to raise its $50,000 for the Sunset Beach playground by April. “That way we can get the matching $50,000 from the LPA and build this fantastic playground for use in 2016,” he says. “Perhaps donors will want to split their contribution, making a 2015 tax-deductible contribution now, and a 2016 tax-deductible contribution in January.”

Donations also can be made to six separate funds or a combination of funds. There is a general fund, plus funds for Boulder Beach, Shady Beach, Sunset Beach, Panorama West, and Lake Panorama National. Money donated to any of these funds will be used at the discretion of the Friends board.

One change from the 2014 fundraising effort is a decision by the Friends board to no longer solicit money for the LPN sports courts. Renovating the two existing tennis courts at the LPN, plus adding a basketball court, was promoted in its first year of fundraising. While 19 donors did contribute to the proposed project, it didn’t generate enough interest to be viable.

The LPA board now is discussing installing tennis and basketball courts at Boulder Beach in 2017 or 2018. Since the location and scope of the project has changed, donors to the LPN sports courts are being contacted to confirm their donations can be used to purchase “extras” such as nets and baskets for new courts at Boulder Beach.

For donations by check, the mailing includes a form that can be completed and returned with a check. A donation form also is available on the Friends website. Or donations can be accepted electronically on the website at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

Donations of securities (stocks, mutual funds, etc.) are welcome, and will be sold once transferred, with the proceeds deposited into the Friends bank account. A securities account has been established with GCSB Investment Center in Panora.

All donors of $500 or more will be recognized on the Friends website and in future publicity. Donations can be made in someone’s memory or in honor of someone. A sign recognizing donors of $500 or more will be erected near the Sunset Beach playground. Donor recognition levels are Friend, $500-999; Steward, $1,000-4,999; Benefactor, $5,000-9,999; Leader, $10,000-24,999; and Champion, $25,000-49,000.

Questions regarding the Friends of Lake Panorama can be directed to Susan Thompson at 641-755-4382 or staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

FRIENDS OF LAKE PANORAMA DONORS MAKE UPGRADES POSSIBLE

Donations to Friends of Lake Panorama have made some recent upgrades at both Lake Panorama National and Panorama West possible. Two new signs featuring the Panorama West Golf Course and Clubhouse logo now are on display at the parking lot entrance, with one facing north and the other facing south.

The two new signs, which cost just under $700, were made possible by donations from two couples. Last December, Wade and Teresa Jensen donated $1,000, with $500 designated for use at Panorama West, and $500 for the Sunset Beach playground. Jay and Sue Merryman donated $500, with $200 for Panorama West and the remaining $300 to the Friends of Lake Panorama general fund.

Two new signs also are in place over east entrances at the LPN Conference Center. Both signs sport the LPN logo. The one on the south shows it’s the entrance to The Links Restaurant and Lounge. The one on the north shows it’s the entrance to the LPN Reception Hall.

The LPN signs were made possible by donations from businesses in the LPN Granite Club. This teebox sponsorship program began in 2008, when 12 businesses made monetary or in-kind contributions to Lake Panorama National to support the construction of Spikes. In 2014, management of the program shifted to Friends of Lake Panorama.

In the last 12 months, teebox sponsors contributed $6,000 to the Granite Club fund. All money raised is used for improvements at the LPN. Besides the two new signs, the donations supported the purchase of a mug chiller for The Links Lounge, two hot dog rollers, two chocolate fountains for use at receptions and other special events, a two-door stainless steel freezer, aluminum carts and other items for the LPN kitchen.

Current Granite Club members are American Equity, Brokers International, Ltd., Brokers International Financial Services, Bryton Insurance, Clover Ridge Interval Owners, Exterior Sheet Metal, Guthrie County State Bank/Lake Panorama Realty/GSCB Investment Center, Panora Telco, Mike Potthoff, Stanley Engineering, and Total Financial Solutions.

Seven holes on the LPN golf course are available for new Granite Club members. Entry into the Club follows the 2008 rules. Donors of $10,000 receive a teebox sign for a five-year period. Donors of $5,000 receive a sign for two years. As initial contracts expire, club members can choose to make another large donation, switch to an annual $500 donation, or have the sign removed. More information about the Granite Club is available by emailing staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org.

MAILING TO LPA MEMBERS YIELDS NEW SUNSET BEACH DONATIONS

A letter sent to all Lake Panorama Association members in late July is resulting in additional donations for a playground at Sunset Beach. The letter outlined efforts by the Friends of Lake Panorama to raise enough money to lock in the current bid for the planned playground.

Friends of Lake Panorama is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, which is focused on improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama.

The Friends board kicked off its first fundraising campaign last fall with a similar mailing, and more than $35,000 was donated in the last six weeks of 2014. Since a high percentage of charitable contributions are made towards the end of each year, the Friends board is asking LPA members to consider making a 2015 charitable contribution now, rather than waiting until December.

In the first three weeks after the special mailing, $4,500 was donated for the Sunset Beach playground. The playground is geared to ages 5-12, and has a play area capacity of 165. The main play structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller play structures surround the main area.

The Friends board remains committed to raising enough money for the complete playground. However, to help advance this project, they will consider building the playground in two phases, if necessary. The mailing LPA members received showed both the full playground, and a possible first phase, which could be built for $50,000.

A form sent with the letter outlined the ways donations can be made to Friends of Lake Panorama. Cash, check, credit card, securities transfers and estate gifts all are welcome. Donations can be given in someone’s memory or in honor of someone.

All contributions to Friends of Lake Panorama are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt. Only donations of $500 or more receive public recognition. Donations of $50,000 or more will receive special recognition, with the possibility of naming rights for the playground.

FRIENDS OF LAKE PANORAMA BOARD MAKES PUSH FOR SUNSET BEACH DONATIONS

At its June 15 board meeting, the Friends of Lake Panorama board of directors voted to take steps to promote additional donations for a playground at Sunset Beach.

One step is a letter that will arrive soon in the mailboxes of all Lake Panorama property owners. In the letter, Kirk Fischer, current president of the Friends board, said “everyone within the Lake Panorama community has a vested interest in recreational amenities that contribute to the community’s ongoing success.”

It’s been just one year since the IRS granted Friends of Lake Panorama tax-exempt status. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, which is focused on improving recreational amenities, is separate from the Lake Panorama Association.

The Friends board kicked off its first fundraising campaign last fall with a similar mailing. “We were pleased when more than $35,000 was donated in the last six weeks of 2014,” Fischer said. “The project that received the most support is a new destination playground at Sunset Beach. About $25,000 has been raised so far for the playground.”

The original playground bid of $112,900 has been extended through 2015, but the vendor has said there will be a price increase in 2016. Fischer said the Friends board hopes to raise enough funds this year to lock in the current price.

Statistics show a high percentage of charitable contributions are made in the last few weeks of each year. Perhaps it’s the holiday spirit, or a desire to get a final tax deduction, or both.

Fischer said the Friends board is asking LPA members to consider getting into the holiday spirit this summer, and make a 2015 charitable contribution now, rather than waiting until December.

“Your support will help us move forward with this new playground that will be enjoyed by your children and grandchildren in 2016 and for many years to come,” he said.

The playground is geared to ages 5-12, and has a play area capacity of 165. The area covered by equipment will be 60 feet by 53 feet, with a larger protective surface area of 72 feet by 66 feet. The main play structure includes multiple slides, bridges and climbing opportunities. Several smaller play structures surround the main area, including a modern take on old-fashioned merry-go-rounds and teeter-totters.

Fischer said the Friends board is fully committed to raising enough money for the complete playground. However, to help advance this project, they will consider building the playground in two phases, if necessary. The mailing LPA members will receive shows both the full playground, and a possible first phase, which could be built for $50,000.

A form sent with the letter outlines the ways donations can be made to Friends of Lake Panorama. Cash, check, credit card, securities transfers and estate gifts all are welcome. Donations can be given in someone’s memory or in honor of someone.

All contributions to Friends of Lake Panorama are tax deductible, and all donors receive a letter of thanks as their receipt. Only donations of $500 or more receive public recognition. Donations of $50,000 or more will receive special recognition, with the possibility of naming rights for a particular project.

Other donor recognition levels are: Champion - $25,000 - $49,999; Leader - $10,000 - $24,999; Benefactor - $5,000 - $9,999; Steward - $1,000 - $4,999; and Friend - $500 - $999.

More details about Friends of Lake Panorama, including a list of recognized donors and additional projects it supports, are on the charity’s website at friendsoflakepanorama.org.

FRIENDS OF LAKE PANORAMA FUNDRAISER A SUCCESS

A sale of donated items May 29-30 raised more than $1,500 for the LPN sports courts project. The event was organized by Friends of Lake Panorama. The nonprofit charity is focused on improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama, and all contributions are tax deductible.

Two similar sales benefiting a destination playground at Sunset Beach raised $3,500, with $1,700 from a sale last November, and $1,800 raised at a second sale in late April.

Fundraising is ongoing for these two priority projects. Donations for these and other recreational amenities at Lake Panorama’s three beaches and two golf courses are welcome at any time of the year.

A donation form and more details are available on the Friends website, which is www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.