2009 continues to challenge everyone, and Unison is no exception. But there have been some brilliant beams of support that have helped us enormously, which we are delighted to summarize. These many contributions are the result of intense caring on the part of our involved community, our passionate staff and our ever-dedicated Board of Directors. We received an award from the Ulster County Cultural Services Promotion Fund for the Articulture Festival at Liberty View Farm this past July and also a New York Legislative Initiative Grant. The most heartening support has come from our members who have donated to Unison at a level that we have never experienced before in our 34 years. We have received major donations from individuals and family foundations. Our general membership has stretched its giving dramatically and we cannot thank our local business Arts Partners enough for getting us through this difficult time.

Due to the global financial challenges of our time, we have made a significant change to our fund-raising plans. We are NOT holding our annual auction, recognizing the strain it puts on both donors and buyers. Instead, we are holding a series of smaller fund-raising events. Please suport these events as generously as you can by joining us for some or all.

You can attend to your social needs and support Unison at: Harvest Café/Fox & Hound Wine/Dinner event (Sept 17), Bridge Creek catered family barbeque (Sept 27), The Benefit Theater Event at SUNY (Oct 17) 'Folk to Broadway' dessert & wine cabaret (Oct 23), and the Post Halloween Barn Sale (Nov 1).

One last piece of news for 2009 — I (Frieda) will step down from the President position before year's end. Helping Unison transform to a lighter, more efficient operation has been a thoroughly satisfying experience and I thank you all, especially the staff, Board and the many generous volunteers and contributors for supporting us during my term. I will remain on Unison's board and look forward to our new leadership.

We hope you will continue to support Unison Arts in the ways that are the most enjoyable and fulfilling for you — attending performances, art openings, workshops, volunteering — or just writing checks! We do need your support to keep our doors open — thank you all!

Frieda Yueh, Board President

Stuart Bigley, Executive Director