Sources: Martha Scott, 785-532-7718, marthas@k-state.edu;
and Janet Cooper, 785-537-1324, sjmpl@aol.com
Website: http://beach.k-state.edu
Pronouncer: David Basse is Bah-see
News release prepared by: Megan Molitor, 785-532-3452, molitor@k-state.edu

Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011

ANNUAL BEACH MUSEUM FUNDRAISER AN EVENING OF ENTERTAINMENT TO BENEFIT KANSAS ART

MANHATTAN -- Those who enjoy jazz music, fine food and regional art can play an important role in helping Kansas State University's Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art expand its permanent collection of Kansas artwork. The Friends of the Beach Museum's fundraising gala will be from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, at the K-State Alumni Center.

The Friends of the Beach Museum organization holds the annual event to raise funds for the purchase and conservation of art for the museum, said Janet Cooper, the Friends' fundraising committee chair.

"The gala proceeds go specifically toward purchasing the works of Kansas artists," Cooper said. "This year will be very special because it is also a celebration of the Beach Museum's 15th anniversary."

To celebrate both Kansas artists and the Beach Museum, this year's fundraiser will provide attendees with cocktails, beginning at 6 p.m., including complimentary wine and a cash bar. A sit-down dinner will follow, and the evening will culminate with a performance by Kansas City jazz musician David Basse.

Martha Scott, Beach Museum office administrator, said Basse will be bringing jazz musicians with him from Kansas City for accompaniment, further adding to the evening's allure.

"This annual fundraising event provides an opportunity to see and hear a type of entertainment we do not regularly see in Manhattan," Scott said. "David Basse brings his unique Kansas City jazz to Manhattan along with the opportunity for dancing and fine dining at the K-State Alumni Center."

Cooper said Basse's performance will include American standards for easy listening and added that attendees are invited to enjoy the music on the dance floor.

K-State President Kirk Schulz will emcee the event, and attire is black tie optional. Tickets are $125 per person and are available until Friday, Sept. 9, by contacting the Beach Museum's Ladonna Piper at 785-532-7718.

The Beach Museum of Art is on the southeast corner of the K-State campus at 14th Street and Anderson Avenue. Free visitor parking is available next to the building. Normal museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. The museum is closed Mondays. For more information, call 785-532-7718.