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Hello friends and neighbors,
Here at the Cultural Association, we're rounding into the holidays with our hearts (and one auditorium) full (of Wicked fans). It's been another year of ups and downs, but tough times are often when the closest bonds are formed. Yes, the downturn in the national movie industry deeply affected the Coyote Twin this year and yes, we're keeping a cautious eye on whether arts grant funding will be available next year. But we also stepped into the role of Vermillion's official arts council and celebrated our tenth year as the owners of your local nonprofit cinema and downtown rotating gallery.
Along the way, we welcomed new board members Peggy Mach (USD Foundation), Martin Prendergast (The Bean, Cow & Spoon), and Marina Sereda (W.H. Over); gained Ally King in the newly created role of Program Director at VCA; added Cheryl Peterson Halsey and Sophia Wermers to our roster of teaching artists for Messy Hands Summer Arts Camp; had a heckofa time at The W Social House during Vortex Film Festival; and found a fun new party planner in Grouchy Hyena Tattoo as they headed up Halloweek. We have a whole list of existing partners we're grateful for—and will definitely thank in our 2025 annual report!—but at the moment we have four more individuals to recognize who've been true best friends the last few years: Kevin Bliss, Mary Giffin, Joe Raiche, and Susan Tuve. These folks just completed their time on our board, and we're exceedingly grateful for the time, creativity, counsel, and talent they've given us.
In the giving spirit, we've arranged some special happenings for you. This week we've scheduled some Thanksgiving showtimes to help you entertain the fam between big meals and shopping sprees. Our Holiday Pop-Up Shop is operating in the Coyote Gallery now through December 23, and we will have some extra good deals at the Coyote Twin for Small Business Saturday. And in December, we have a whole month of FREE Community Monday movies as gifts to Vermillion from local businesses. Scroll down for more information on all of the fun!
As a little bit of a heads up, we know change is coming to the VCA/Coyote Twin in 2026. In our new role as arts council, we have some growing to do. As a local nonprofit (but not "no profit") theater, we have some rethinking of our business plan to do. So we're going to spend some time on either side of the solstice making plans to share with you in the new year.
Arts are a connective force for community. Being in community creates friendships. Friendships create laughter and joy and solidarity. They incline us to help each other and inspire us to be our best. Our vision is for a Vermillion that thrives on a strong arts scene that—through community— enriches, entertains, and empowers residents and visitors.
Thank you for being a friend, Vermillion. Let’s keep up the good arts together.
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