NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT
This month’s column is being written from a hotel room in Alabama. This is a part of the United States that I don’t travel to often, but my family and I jumped at the chance to visit a new place. As many of you know, travel broadens our horizons and gives us perspective on what we see every day. It also makes us better, more accepting citizens, and gives us a chance to enjoy new experiences. It is easy to get wrapped up in the happenings of the world, and then lose focus on what is right in front of us. After relaxing on the beach for a few days, I intend to return home and focus a bit more of my energy on the Danish American Center. We have many exciting things happening, and I’m proud to be part of such a vibrant organization.

Plans are continuing for many of our annual traditions, including Danish Day, and the fundraising auction. Fundraising will get more of our focus during the next six months, as EJ Gurley has worked with a committee to identify opportunities for us to improve our fundraising methodology and raise funds for some significant organizational goals.

Our annual slate of activities continues, with Music on the Mississippi concerts, and new exhibits in our Heritage room. In particular, the DAC received a beautiful donation of a carved wooden ship. This donation came from the Palm family, and it was an heirloom that has been handed down for many years within that family. We are very proud to display it in an exhibition that focuses on the seagoing exploits of Danes.

I have also asked our Building Committee to evaluate some improvement opportunities to the first floor of the DAC. We are looking to add restrooms on the first floor, adjacent to the Kaffestue, and we are also evaluating some other options to expand our gathering space in the atrium. More information about these projects will be coming soon. Our building committee has begun preliminary work to examine improvements and to help develop a budget. These are projects that will leave a legacy for many years to come, and we will benefit greatly as an organization from having improved spaces for gatherings and events.

As always, I am grateful to all the volunteers who work tirelessly on our committees and events. As I plan my drive home from Alabama, I anticipate returning to the DAC with a renewed focus and energy to work with our volunteers, and help to guide our exciting new projects.
Pete Gantriis