NEWS updated on May 6, 2012

The Town of Brandon Development Review Board has approved the application for change of use of the Compass building. We also have the necessary State construction permits - however, despite previous advice, we now also have to have an Act 250 Amendment approval... the town of Brandon will review this on May 23 then it goes back to the State.. Complete duplication but such is the way of life here!

Much work has been done to refit and refurbish the Phase 0 Zone - the main entrance and adjoining areas. It looked quite good until we started work on teh refitting of the fire sprinklers which meant the ceilings had to come down again. At the same time, work is underway to restore power throughout the whole building. We were delighted to see lights on for the first time in 17 years and our contractors have completed the 'energizing' of most of the main floor - just a small area and all of the and the lower level to be tackled next. The completion of this job, which also includes the upgrade of the fire alarm network, will allow us to move forward on other important aspects of the renovation. We just found a probable leak in the main water supply too; but still we hope to have work back on track by mid May.

As soon as the above work is completed, as well as opening the visitor room (and a bathroom!) the offices of Divine Art Recordings Group (part of Brandon Music, our commercial partners and sponsors) will relocate to the Compass Building from 62 Country Club Road. The offices will also offer a listening lounge and retail area for Divine Art's CDs (over 600 titles) and music related goodies. This will be followed by the move from Country Club Road of the Phonograph Room which will be developed over time into an instructive but fun working exhibit of vintage 'talking machines' (old record players!), radio and TV, from the 1880s up to the 1970s - and perhaps beyond). This will be a gradual and ongoing process as we acquire and renovate more items. Meanwhile the Phonograph Room remains open at Country Club Road.

The Board of the Compass Foundation continues to meet monthly, and all are very enthusiastic about our project and the opportunity to develop and nurture the artistic community of Vermont. Not only that, but also to engage the entire community in the appreciation and enjoyment of all the creative and performing arts in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. The Board next meets in mid May. Currently we have six Directors, and are keen to attract more people with a passion for the arts and with skills and experience in areas such as making and managing grant applications, running an art gallery or other large public facility, publicity and PR - and so on. The aim is to have a main Board of eleven with a much larger Circle of Advisers.

FUNDRAISING AND MEMBERSHIP

We have held three benefit concerts so far: thansk to all the musicians who gave their time and skill to this project.

There will be plenty of opportunities to support and be a part of this great vision. Various membership packages will be on offer soon as well as commercial sponsorships.

We have been delighted with the positive response from musicians from Vermont, the UK and many parts of the USA (and Australia!) who have pledged their support for the new Center and many of whom will be giving benefit concerts this year and into the future. Other performers, unable to perform live at present, have donated CDs and offered to give masterclasses once the Compass's Music Teaching wing is ready for use.

TAX EXEMPT STATUS. The Compass Foundation has been incorporated under s.501(c)(3) of the Tax Code. This means that donations will be rewarded with a tax benefit, however it takes some time to obtain the exemption certificate from the IRS. This is in hand!