The first ARTcetera was held on Saturday, September 25, 1999, at the Northland Country Club. A small but dedicated committee of volunteers designed and produced this amazing event under the leadership of co-chairs Sharon Almirall and Terry Roberts. Dr. Skip Silvestrini served as an honorary chairperson. The event was attended by 144 people who enjoyed a spectacular four-course gourmet wine dinner that featured Minnesota mixed grill, maple-seared breast of duck and a roast rack of mustard-glazed lamb. Auctioneer Todd Finn, from the Boston area, flew in to auction off 54 items including ten days in an Italian villa, an acrylic painting by George Morrison and a spectacular cast glass bowl by Mark Gulsrud. The modest goal of $30,000 was easily surpassed by the enthusiasm of the attendees and the event raised an amazing $103,000 after expenses.

The funds were used to develop the Abilities First Fund, a fund to assist people with disabilities in purchasing medical equipment and aids that assist them in more fully participating in life, work or school. This fund is administered by a group of professionals from Miller-Dwan and Polinsky/Center Therapy. It is used only after all other payment mechanisms have been explored and exhausted. The fund is available to anyone in the region struggling with physical disabilities and limited financial resources.

To purchase tickets and reserve your place for ARTcetera 2004, please call (218) 786-2864 or REGISTER ONLINE. For more information, e-mail ghebenstreit@mdfoundation.org.