The George L. Ruder Forum, which has brought nationally known speakers to north central Wisconsin to address issues of current interest and importance since 1989, will feature "Washington's best-loved couple" - James Carville and Mary Matalin - on ARTSblock on September 20.
The George L. Ruder Forum, which has brought nationally known speakers to north central Wisconsin to address issues of current interest and importance since 1989, will feature "Washington's best-loved couple" – James Carville and Mary Matalin - on ARTSblock on September 20. "All's Fair: Love, War and Politics," will give audiences an enlightening and entertaining look at today's most important political issues as well as a behind-the-scenes look at Washington politics focusing on the 2008 Presidential race. Co-authors of the national best seller All's Fair: Love, War, and Running for President, both Matalin and Carville are key players on the national political stage, having between them worked for every president over the last 25 years.
Community Foundation executive director Jean Tehan states, "The Community Foundation is celebrating 20 years of serving north central Wisconsin this year, and we wanted to do something unique and special to celebrate that milestone. Partnering with the Performing Arts Foundation for this exciting venture will make it possible for the Forum to reach a broader audience, accomplish our educational mission, and showcase the strengths of both organizations. "
The partnership will build upon the two decades of success established by the George L. Ruder Forum Committee of the Community Foundation. "The Forum Committee brings imagination, discernment, history, and expertise regarding the issues of the day," says PAF executive director Jim O'Connell. "We're honored to be joining forces with the Community Foundation to ensure that informed conversation about important issues will continue to be a part of our region's cultural life."
"This alliance has special significance to us," stated Lane Ware, chair of the Ruder Forum Committee and former Community Foundation president. "Mr. Ruder invested widely in Wausau businesses and, on behalf of the ownership group, oversaw the development and management of the Grand Theater for many years. Together, we're bringing George Ruder to the Grand Theater, a place he was passionate about during his lifetime."
"The Forum has hosted exceptional speakers in the past, and each year we are challenged to figure out what could possibly top the last speaker. It's not an easy task," stated Community Foundation board president Todd Nicklaus. "The PAF brings their expertise, broad marketing, and key resources to the table in this partnership. Together we think we have put together a terrific program for 2007."
"I see this as a continuation of the PAF's efforts to serve the community," says Jim O'Connell. "Since ARTSblock opened in 2002, we've increased the number and diversity of our shows and the magnitude of the stars we offer. I've always felt that a speaker series would be a great addition. This new arrangement allows us to test those waters and deliver what our audiences seek."
"We are excited to nurture the evolution of this new relationship," says Tehan. "Our intention is to try this arrangement during the 20th anniversary year of the Community Foundation, and measure the response. We want to know what our donors think about the new possibilities this arrangement opens up for both of our organizations."
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James Carville & Mary Matalin
All's Fair: Love, War and Politics
Public Presentation at 6:30 pm
George L. Ruder Forum reservations at $127 per person include:
¨ Pre-show reception with speakers at 5:30 pm
¨ Premiere seating in the Golden Circle section of the Grand Theater for the 6:30 pm presentation
¨ Dinner with the speakers on the Grand Theater Stage at 7:45 pm
¨ An opportunity to purchase an autographed copy of Carville and Matalin's book
General seating available at $89 and $79, includes the 6:30 pm presentation only
Reservations for the September 20, 2007 George L. Ruder Forum
will be accepted through the Performing Arts Foundation ticket office
401 N 4th Street , Wausau
www.onartsblock.org
Phone: 715.842.0988