Potashcorp-PCS PHOSPHATE COMMITS TO HIGHEST LEVEL OF SPONSORSHIP AT LOFTE FOR 2009

The PotashCorp-PCS Phosphate plant in Weeping Water, Nebraska has stepped up to the highest level of corporate sponsorship available as a Platinum Sponsor for the 2009 season at the Lofte Community Theatre near Manley. Mr. Bill Donohue presented the $10,000 in sponsorship funds to Lofte Artistic Director Kevin Colbert in a recent ceremony.

Lofte Chairman Larry Bauers expressed his thanks to PCS for their generous donation. “In an economy when giving of all types – especially corporate giving – is tough to come by, PotashCorp has really gone the extra mile to show their support. Donations by our corporate sponsors are a big reason we have been able to continue to provide quality, affordable entertainment for more than 30 years. They are definitely a big factor in our track record of running on budget every single year in our history. Even before our corporate sponsorship program began several years ago, PotashCorp has been a strong supporter – buying numerous season tickets for most if not all of our 34 years.”

Bill Donohue, plant manager at the PCS facility, said the reason PotashCorp stepped up as a premiere sponsor this year was: “We want to give back to our community, and support arts/theater. We enjoy providing opportunities to our youth, enabling them to experience the theatrical field. The Lofte has a long history of providing exceptional quality programs to our community.”

As a part of their sponsorship, PotashCorp received space in all Lofte programs for 2009, a large banner in the Lofte lobby, and a private showing of the 2009 summer musical, “Crazy For You.” PotashCorp-PCS used their private showing to provide employees and friends, assisted living and low-income housing residents from throughout the area, and Weeping Water school board and staff with their own opportunity to see the summer musical free of charge.

PotashCorp-PCS Phosphate facility has been a part of the community for over 45 years, producing dicalcium phosphate, monocalcium phosphate and monocalcium coarse phosphate, which are used for animal feed ingredients.

PCS Plant Manager, Bill Donahue presents a check to Lofte Artistic Director, Kevin Colbert. PotashCorp-PCS is the Lofte's platinum donor for 2009.

Lofte Production Receives Three Nominations

The Lofte Community Theatre's 2008 musical production of Rogers and Hammerstein's "Sound of Music" was certainly special. Anyone who bought a ticket or performed in the show knew that. Each and every night the cast consistently delivered a world-class performance that left many in tears or begging for another ticket to the next performance. In recognition of their fine work, three of the Lofte's finest actresses received nominations from the Theatre Arts Guild of Omaha.

Jennifer Gilg of Omaha received a nomination for lead actress in a musical for her role as "Maria." Her touching portrayal of the nun-turned-nanny, and beautiful singing voice left a deep impression on nominating Guild members. Mrs. Gilg also had a nomination in the category for Supporting Actress for a role in Omaha at SNAP! Productions.

Two of the Lofte's von Trapp children received nominations in the category for Outstanding Performance by a Youth Actress. Kabrianna Mumford of Elmwood portrayed the youngest daughter, "Gretl." Anna Schoettger of Lincoln received a nomination for her role as "Louisa."

While none of the nominated Lofte actresses won in their category, each was still very honored by the recognition. There are literally hundreds of performers who participate in theater in the Omaha metro each year, and to be mentioned in the top five in any category is certainly a credit to their talent.

We at the Lofte certainly congratulate Jennifer, Kabbie, and Anna on their outstanding performances. We always knew you were great. We're just glad that someone else recognized that too!

Front Row from L to R, Abigail Raasch, Jenniger Gilg, Kabrianna Mumford. Back Row, Matt Bailey, Samantha Colbert, Luke Heidbrink, Anna Schoettger and Jordyn Marcoe.