Art in the Elgin, a May 23 fundraiser for Marion Youth Activity Committee’s effort to develop a youth center, raised $1,500, the committee said this week.

MYAC said the total would be matched by Thirvent Financial for Lutherans and the resulting $3,000 used to help purchase a building for the center.

In an open letter to the community, MYAC expressed its thanks:

“We thank Jim Cloutier, owner of the Elgin. His willingness to allow our group to have this special event is his beautifully remodeled bed and breakfast ballroom made the event elegant and created an inspiring atmosphere for the donated art pieces.

“His daughter, Blythe, worked hard preparing for the event. Without their help and inviting attitudes, the auction would not have had such an elegant persona.

“We have the greatest of appreciation toward Lyle Leppke, who gave his time and talent as an auctioneer. We feel lucky to have had such a wonderful person volunteering his time.

“Jim Versch, high school teacher, was good about taking the task of chair painting. The chair artist showed the community just how great a teacher he is. Art teacher Jan Davis also helped by gathering art from her students. All of this extra work was in addition to their regular duties.

“We also thank every student who donated artwork for the silent auction, and those who created chair art and their willingness to have their work donated. All of you made a difference for the art auction and let people see the talents of young artists in the area. We were amazed with what was presented and sold at the auction.

“There are too many artists to name; however, we want to express our appreciation for each person who donated a piece of art. There were oil paintings, watercolors, copper pieces, woodcarvings, woodcrafts, and others. We were amazed not only by the quality of the art pieces but also by the openness to give.

“The Marion community is a strong, caring, and welcoming one of which we are proud to be part.

“Thank you.”