AT THE FUTURE SITE of the Bob Berndt Performing Arts Theatre in Crivitz, Wis., Jess Magerowski and Elisa Rollo, at left, present the Stephenson National Bank & Trust donation to Bob Berndt and John Deschane of the Operation Bandshell Committee. (Submitted photo)

CRIVITZ, Wis. — The Stephenson National Bank & Trust has donated $10,000 toward the $200,000 goal of building a permanent performing arts bandshell in Crivitz Community Veterans Park.

The effort is the vision of several dedicated groups, led by the Operation Bandshell Committee, in conjunction with the village of Crivitz and Crivitz Business Association.

“We did not hesitate when they approached us about funding,” said Daniel J. Peterson, SNBT president and CEO. “It’s just one more way, as an independent community bank, we can tangibly re-affirm our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the communities we serve.”

The community bandshell and entertainment stage will help accomplish wider goals, such as bringing more music-based activities for people of all ages, attracting new performers and festivals, drawing more visitors to the region, creating a home for fundraising efforts by civic groups, providing space for local schools to conduct community-based activities, and demonstrating a strong sense of cultural and historical heritage.

“All along we’ve been working under the motto of ‘If you build it, music will come!’ because we believe in the value of and positive influence from music and the arts on our community,” said John Deschane, Operation Bandshell Committee chair. “Our committee had a tremendous amount of faith in the people and businesses of Crivitz to accept the challenge to help us raise the necessary funds to make this dream a reality.”

The outdoor amphitheater will be called the Bob Berndt Performing Arts Theatre. Berndt was band director in Crivitz for nearly three decades before becoming superintendent of Beecher-Dunbar-Pembine Schools. He has always been involved with music, using it as a tool to help area youth develop life skills. Throughout his career he has played in several bands, directed the NEW Concert band, and is currently drummer for crowd favorite Daze2Nights.

It has been a little more than a year since the project began with the monumental goal of raising $200,000. SNBT’s donation brings that goal even closer to realization. However, with current prices for materials, the committee is mindful that construction costs may increase. With the help of local donors, such as SNBT and other businesses, the effort is backed by an incredible amount of support. Those interested in learning more or donating can go to the Operation Bandshell page on Facebook.

The Stephenson National Bank & Trust is a 148-year-old institution managing almost $1.5 billion in assets. Offices are in Marinette, Wausaukee, Crivitz, Pembine and Oconto, Wis.; plus Menominee, Mich.; with a Trust & Investment Office in Marquette, Mich.; and a Commercial Loan Services Office in Green Bay, Wis. For more information, go to www.snbt.com.