December 2007
Community Gathers to Learn About PACE
John Haynes, PACE Executive Director and CEO
At the end of October, Eastside residents interested in learning about the Performing Arts Center Eastside (PACE) were invited to gather at the Overlake Golf and Country Club for a presentation by PACE Executive Director and CEO, John Haynes. Informal in style and informative by design, the presentation provided nearly 100 attendees an opportunity to hear the plans for the upcoming 2,000-seat performing arts center, as well as how PACE will influence the continued growth on the Eastside.
Susan Raunig and Steve Lerian
Guests were able to spend valuable "meet and greet" time with each other as well as with PACE management and volunteers. "It was important for people to have this opportunity to simply ask questions, share their thoughts, and put faces to the leadership of PACE," says Haynes. "PACE can become a new focal point for the community, but it will take the understanding, support, and enthusiasm of its members to make it a reality."
John Haynes and PACE Board Member Scott Wallace talk to guests after the presentation
According to Linda Bonomi, Director of Development for PACE, this was also an important time for future patrons to meet John. "John is able to share the passion and vision for PACE in a way that is infectious and motivating," says Bonomi. "The more people know John, the more they will understand and share our vision."
During much of the hour-long gathering, John conducted a presentation featuring the details about PACE, including renderings and specific details of the completed building design. "Up until this spring, we did not have the actual design for PACE," says Haynes. "We are incredibly pleased with every detail and we are eager to share that during this event."
PACE plans to continue to keep the community abreast of current developments. According to Haynes, "these kinds of events are invaluable and help all of us not only share our news and updates, but hear from the community as well."