THANK YOU
The success of the Radnor show could not have been possible without all of you! Betsy and I feel strongly that we need to share our gratitude and issue a huge special thank you.
An impressive 250 paintings from 69 artists were received. The quality of the work was exceptional, and many visitors and artists alike were overheard commenting on it being the best display of work they’ve seen. A record-setting 27 paintings were donated to the silent auction, amounting to $6685.oo, 100% going directly to FORL. Thank you to every artist and every painting you submitted! It is very brave to display the pieces of yourself that go into these paintings, and especially disheartening if they didn’t go home with someone this time. We appreciate you!
Chestnut founder Kim Barrick is very passionate about Radnor Lake, and as a member of the board, she was able to offer a valuable perspective for both FORL and The Chestnuts. Her patience and willingness to help either group was especially beneficial during a year where there were newbie representatives in key leadership roles on both sides. In addition to that, artist Kim conducted Radnor hikes for photo opportunities, and painting demonstrations at the park. Thank you for generously giving your valuable time and talents.
As treasurer, Denise Hawkins brought her expertise and easy-going nature into the mix which was vital to the show’s success. She tracked and organized the financials with a calm professionalism. Thank you for being reliable where it was needed the most!
FORL hired a new director in July of 2019, a mere 3 months before the show. Tina Corkum rose to the challenge and her leadership never wavered. Her calmness under pressure was contagious and the team was solid with her in charge. Aside from that, she is delightful and enjoyable to be around. FORL is lucky to have her. Thank you for quickly stepping up and being what I know will be a trusting partner for many years going forward.
Ellen Parker Bibb and Carol Johnston took on new responsibilities as the marketing and media representatives. Among other things, Ellen attended meetings with the FORL marketing team and assisted with the selection of the images used for print advertising. Thank you, Ellen and Carol, for the many hours spent sorting and organizing the Dropbox and managing the social media accounts.
Ed Routon is loyal beyond measure. In addition to helping install and take down the show, he was our mentor throughout the year. He offered guidance and a sympathetic ear whenever necessary. And, he assisted with the creation of our silent auction display, which was crucial this year when faced with even more than usual space constraints. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Steve Ward and the park staff were professional, supportive, and welcoming to The Chestnut Group. Steve and crew lead informative aviary tours and canoe float outings. The rangers sheer enthusiasm of the park was awe-inspiring. Thank you for your continued support and partnership for many more years to come.
Rachel Blair was a steady force who brought experience and grace to the team. As the skilled Chestnut director, her thoughtful guidance and behind the scenes leadership was key to the show’s success. Thank you for thinking of everything, and for being a reliable backup during the week of the show.
Some of the best patrons in Nashville are Radnor Lake patrons. They too are passionate about the park and it shows. Their support, kind words, and heartfelt appreciation of the artist’s work was revealed once again in the show’s success.
An event like this one only happens with the help of each and every volunteer. We had all 53 weekend volunteer slots filled weeks before the show. A huge thank you goes out to this special group – Ed Routon, Renee Bates, David Ward, Terry Warren, Mike Sowers, Michael Poindexter, Melody Hall, Wendy Ervin, Kathleen Haynes, Carol Johnston, Sheryl Waugh, Marjorie Hicks, Anne Blair Brown, Dawn Whitelaw, Ellen Bibb, Jean Gauld-Jaeger, Bitsy King, Lou Hoover, Lynn Hutson, Judson Newbern, Carol DeMumbrum, Anne Goetze, Lana Finch, Jess Peoples, Tiffany Foss, Marie Maxwell, Treesa Hundley, Barbara Watson, Donna Littleton, JoEllen Thatcher, Suzanne LeBeau, Bonnie Laylon, Kimberly Kilgore, Margaret Cameron, Denise Hawkins, Sheron Garrett-Dickerson, Jessica Lewis, Gayle Levée, Kim Barrick, Kathleen Sparkman.
It has been a real pleasure serving as co-chairs with such wonderful company!
Donna and Betsy