Mike And Rita Shannon Recipients Of The James C Hubbard Windy Award

Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts (THELMA) announced today that Mike and Rita Shannon are the 2017 recipients of the James C. Hubbard Windy Award.

The award goes to an individual or group of individuals who have made a positive impact on THELMA and the Fond du Lac community.

 “Mike and Rita are remarkable supporters of the arts and the community,” said Jacqui Corsi, THELMA Interim Executive Director. “As owners of Holiday Automotive they have their annual holiday party for their employees at THELMA, and they were one of the first companies to provide a Naming Rights donation after THELMA opened in 2013,” Corsi added.

The Hubbard Windy Award will be given to the Shannon’s at the 17^th Annual Windy Dinner THELMA Style Thursday, October 5. This is the largest fundraiser for the organization.

“It’s been heartwarming for us to have witnessed the ongoing growth and appreciation for the arts in the community. Now, to have this special place serving as a hub and showcase for so many worthwhile endeavors, and to have had the pleasure of knowing Thelma Sadoff, for whom it is named, makes it even more special,” said Rita Shannon.

“We love advocating for and attending THELMA art and music events and hosting our annual Holiday Automotive Christmas party here, it’s fun and gratifying,” adds Mike Shannon.

The Shannon’s are longtime members of Holy Family Catholic Community and have been spirited supporters of Catholic Education and the evolution of St Mary Springs Academy. They are known among friends, acquaintances, and customers as genuinely humble, thoughtful, and compassionate. Professionally, they are admired for the passion they’ve channeled over the past 45 years into a successful business, Holiday Automotive, which has afforded them a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community.

A Hubbard Windy Award nominee will have served our community and organization with distinction by promoting the following key values:

• Appreciation of the arts as a significant component for the quality of life for the citizens of Fond du Lac.
• Demonstration by example of the power of collaboration between individuals and organizations.
• Fosters and supports the continuing mission of THELMA.
• Helps to raise the visibility of THELMA and Fond du Lac throughout the state.

The Windy Award was renamed in 2013 when THELMA opened to honor James C. Hubbard, a long serving board member and community advocate. Other recipients of the award include Sister Doris Klein, Sister Mary Neff, Sister Judith Schmidt, and Sister Frances Schug, Ray Wifler, Pat Reiher, National Exchange Bank & Trust, Fond du Lac Area Foundation, Dick and Mary Wehner, Ron and Terri Emanuel, Tom Carew, the Michels Family, JoAnn Ward, the Ahern Family, and Wayne Huberty, C.D. Smith, Grande Cheese, and Rick and Pat Miller.

In addition to the award, this fun event includes cocktails, dinner, auctions, and entertainment. You may register for Windy Dinner THELMA Style by visiting thelmaarts.org and clicking tickets.  

THELMA is located at 51 Sheboygan St., in the heart of Downtown Fond du Lac’s Arts and Entertainment District.

THELMA is a member-based, privately-funded non-profit dedicated to creating experiences not readily available in the area. Intimate concerts in the Great Hall, street concerts with major performers, outstanding films, and art from world-renowned artists are available at THELMA. THELMA also offers a stunning backdrop for weddings, meetings and all social and corporate gatherings.

Learn more about THELMA at thelmaarts.org, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.