Education foundation laying bricks for fundraiser

SPARTA - The first phase of “Pathways to Excellence,” a Sparta Education Foundation fundraiser, will be complete on Nov. 30, the foundation announced Monday. The “Pathway” is literal. The foundation sold engraved bricks for the entranceway to the new Sparta Theatre. Individuals and businesses purchased the bricks and more will be sold before the Nov. 30 deadline. The date was set to allow the bricks to be engraved and laid in the entranceway prior to the Foundation’s Gala, which is scheduled to be held immediately after the new theater is finished and before it is open to the public. The gala will precede the theater’s own grand opening celebration. “Bricks purchased before the end of the first phase will be engraved and installed in time for the gala,” Education Foundation President Suzann Schroepfer explained. The gala will be another fundraiser for the foundation. The “Pathways” fundraiser will continue until all of the bricks in the entranceway have been sold. The bricks vary in size. A 6-inch by 6-inch brick is $60, a 6-inch by 9-inch brick is $100 and a 9-inch by 9-inch brick is $200. Some sponsors choose to have their family name engraved, others choose a personal sentiment or slogan. Examples are: “Best wishes to Sparta’s yough from the Benson family” or “Sparta Football State Champions 2006.” There are a limited number of large bricks -- measuring 17 in. square available for platinum sponsors. These will be placed prominently at the entrance to the theatre. “. “The first round of platinum sponsors will be specially recognized at the Foundation Gala,” Schroepfer said. Call 877.472.1731 to inquire about the opportunity of a platinum sponsorship. Schroepfer offered the thanks of the foundation to Nouvelle Associates, the property developer, John Monsport, the theatre’s new proprietor, and Sparta Stone and Tile for their generosity, without which, this fundraiser would not be possible. The foundation was formed in October of this year and registered as a non-profit organization. Its goals are to raise funds and to promote community awareness for the Sparta Public School District. For information about the Sparta Education Foundation - how to donate, volunteer for a committee, or participate in a fundraiser - call (877) 472-1731 or email inquiry@spartaeducationfoundation.org. You may also visit the Website at www.spartaeducationfoundation.org.