Concert series raises $92,375 for schools

The 2002 Sisters Starry Nights Concert Series raised a record $92,375 in net proceeds for the Sisters Schools Foundation. The series, which completed its sixth year last month, has netted close to $330,000 since its inception in 1997.

"We are very pleased to announce that this year's event has surpassed our fund-raising goals," said series co-chair and Sisters Schools Foundation Vice-Chair Susan Arends.

She attributed the increase to a number of factors, including artists offering to donate all the proceeds from their CD sales this year.

In addition, travel and lodging expenses were kept to a minimum this year with smaller artist groups and more donated accommodations.

"The cornerstone of Starry Nights is the tremendous amount of support it receives from the community," adds Starry Nights co-chair Jeri Fouts. "Whether it's someone who buys a ticket, participates as a sponsor, makes a donation or gives their time as a volunteer -- so many people play a role in its success."

This year's performers were Hal Ketchum, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Leslie Satcher, Karla Bonoff and Kenny Edwards, with comedians Maryellen Hooper, Dana Daniels and Wayne Cotter opening the shows.

All Starry Nights artists donate their performances.

Starry Nights revenues fund many co-curricular programs.