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It was an event worthy of the many talented artists and business owners who gathered to celebrate the grand opening of The Gallery Center. Richard and Linda Pankratz, owners of Pankratz Gallery, hosted the affair with warmth and enthusiasm, encouraging all who attended to feel at home. Richard and Linda opened the gallery in 1982, and Richard has since designed and created awards for Pikes Peak Motorsports Festival; created Addy Awards for Pikes Peak Advertising Federation; was nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year by Inc. Magazine, Merrill Lynch, Sprint and KUSA TV. In fact, the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce was so impressed with Richard, he was named “Business Person of the Year.” We are proud to have Pankratz Gallery as a member of our business community.
A variety of tantalizing wines were provided by The Wine Seller, as many of the participants enjoyed wine tasting before the remaining festivities began. A delicious assortment of Hor D’ Oeuvres were served by Nita Faust, who will be opening The Herb Garden Bistro in the Gallery Center early 2005. If the tasty appetizers I sampled were a preview of what’s to come, we are all in for a wonderful treat. Nita, who has a Masters in Health Education and Administration, had been preparing culinary delights in Montana for the past six years. Nita told me she has always had “a love for cooking.” After tasting her wares, I have no doubt.
Local artists Barbara Westwood, who designs fine art jewelry, and Nancy Bonig, who creates fused glass art, displayed a sampling of their craft with pieces that were stunningly unique. Interior Designer, Debbie Dunn proudly stood before some of the beautiful designs she has created for the gallery. Her work glows with originality and exceptional taste.
Sabrina Culley of Bella Arts & Frame, and her father David were on hand to greet guests, as well as professional photographer, Larry Hampton. Marce and Jack Brand, who own and operate Pacific Rim Interiors, were kept busy throughout the evening as guests packed their shop in search of unusual decorative pieces for their homes — which they found.
Local artists from every branch of the art world were in attendance, enjoying the company of all who had a true appreciation of the rich culture we possess in the Tri-Lakes area. Artists Nikki Sheridan and Rikki Stiltner, two very gifted ladies, were among the guests who graced us with their presence.
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Many business owners participated in this gala event, including Mona Sullivan of Customer’s Choice, Tommie Plank of Covered Treasures Bookstore, Lucy McGuire of Folk Art Gallery, Cheryl Rogers of Chyanns Petcare & Styling, Bonnie Biggs of Lake of the Rockies, Steve and Corky Watts of 2 Watts, Jack Fry of Edward Jones, Catherine and Woody Woodworth of High Country Store and Maria Tillberry of Expectations Salon and Day Spa, just to name a few. If I were to list all in attendance, we would need another page! Steve Spry, who was recently appointed to head the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, was obviously enjoying the affair, as he mingled with the local business owners.
It was an enjoyable evening, with Woody Woodworth and Sweet Revenge providing the entertainment. It is moments such as this, that I am particularly happy to be a part of this community. If you haven’t been to the Gallery Center, it’s time to find out what you’ve been missing. Pankratz Gallery is filled with fine art and crafts, Bella Arts & Frames brings you the best in eclectic gifts and custom framing, and Pacific Rim Interiors is affordable luxury for home furnishings and decorative items. Plan to spend a few hours, there is so much to see! |