MAC project needs supporters NOW
Staff reporter
Now is the time to contribute to the Marion Advancement Campaign's project of a community center and two-screen movie theater.
Two campaigns are beginning in an effort to encourage people to do just that — "Pick Your Seat" and naming opportunities.
Patrons have the opportunity to "purchase" theater seats for $500 each. In return, the patron will have a name plate on the seat and be recognized on the "Wall of Fame" that will be in a prominent location within the building.
For larger contributions, donors can name the community center, two movie theaters, and game room.
MAC spokesman Gene Winkler said there are local people who are considering being a contributor but are waiting for various reasons.
"We need your money now," Winkler explained. "One way or another we're doing this project and we are going to need a minimum of $200,000 of commitments."
MAC is a not-for-profit, 501(c)3 foundation formed for the purpose of making Marion a better community.
It was determined a community center and movie theater would benefit all age groups within the community, provide economic development, and facilities not available in the town.
The group is organizing funding to apply for a state grant. The grant would provide up to $400,000 in funds with a matching portion by the community in the forms of money and in-kind services. Total estimate for the project is $800,000.
Winkler said the $200,000 would be used for the building and theater equipment.
"We have two options. We can use the $200,000 outright for the building and equipment and avoid having to spend an additional $45,000 for engineering and grant administration for that portion of the project," Winkler explained, "or the $200,000 can go for the matching portion of the grant."
Either way the money would be used for the project.
"The community came together for the library project," Winkler said. "I'm sure it will come together for this project."
Pick-a-seat, name
Donors will be guaranteed a seat in the opening night event, complete with red carpet-treatment at the Hollywood-type premiere.
In addition, contributors will receive coupons for free popcorn at upcoming movies.
A total of 198 seats are being planned in the two-screen theater that will seat 120 and 78 people.
Contributions may be paid in one payment or spread out over monthly or quarterly payments.
Donors who contribute larger gifts may choose the names of the community center and theaters.
For a $50,000 donation, a person can name the community center, for $25,000 the large theater, $20,000 the small theater, and $15,000 the game area.
All contributions are tax deductible.
Those who are waiting for a recreation center or some other particular project, need to be aware that if this current project isn't successful, there may not be future MAC projects.
The organization is confident this project will succeed because of the need and because of the success of past community projects, most recently the Santa Fe Depot conversion to Marion City Library. More than $150,000 was raised locally through fund-raisers and contributions.
Land was donated to the foundation by Vernon and Madelyn Vogel on Eisenhower Drive, north of the baseball complex. The community center/theater will be situated on the property to best utilize the space and leave room for additional projects.
The parking lot will be planned to accommodate both the current construction project and future development.
The foundation is confident revenue generated from the community center/theater complex will offset expenses and possible indebtedness. Payroll also will be among the expenses with most positions being paid.
"The foundation will own and operate the facility," Winkler explained, "but employees will be paid to manage and work at the complex."
When funds are secured, an application will be submitted to Kansas Department of Commerce for a Kan-Step grant, the same grants successfully secured for community centers in Burns and Lincolnville.
The foundation has completed the preliminary requirements for a successful grant application and are confident it has a "good chance" to be awarded funds for this project.
In addition to the convenience of having a two-screen theater available in town and being able to hold family and social gatherings in a community center, other potential uses are evident.
The two theaters will be designed to host seminars, conventions, and classes which will be an additional attraction for the community and economic revenue opportunities for local businesses.
"This project is a 'win-win' situation for the entire community," Winkler said. "We know people want it and should be willing to support it."
For more information or to make a tax-deductible contribution, contact Winkler at (620) 382-2115.
