Yesterday, November 14th, 2023, at 6:30 pm, the Flagler Playhouse held an open to the public meeting where they went over the plans currently in place to rebuild the playhouse. Woody’s BBQ was filled with residents, business owners and other organizations and foundations that had gathered together to support the Playhouse during this difficult time.
Flagler Playhouse Jerri Berry spent a few minutes talking about their plans to continue shows, and ultimately their plans to rebuild the playhouse and come back bigger and better. Matanzas High School will be hosting the Playhouse plays for the remainder of the year, and Bunnell Elementary has offered to host the Penguin project.
Jerri stated that they are waiting to get into the building to inspect and salvage what they can. They know that the insurance will not cover the extent of the damages. “We will take any amount of donations you are willing to offer or if you are able to help us with the rebuild.” Jerri took her time to thank those in attendance with tears in her eyes.
Teresa Rizzo, Executive Director of the Flagler Education Foundation, took this time to stand up and make a statement to the crowd and to Jerri. She went on to state that the Playhouse is a part of their family. Teresa continued saying, “We are here to kick off their fundraising, because of some special partners we have. I want to thank Tom Savone, I want to thank Simmons Electric, Liz and Bobby Gordon with Quantum Automotive, Ashley and TJ McKnitt, Chelsea and Adrian Herbert and Kelly Wright. So I have a big beautiful check to present to you tonight in the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars.”
Teresa said afterwards, “That two FCEF Board Members came to me with other donors offering a donation through the FCEF earmarked for rebuilding the Flagler Playhouse in honor of the community and the students who participate in the children’s programs at the playhouse.”
We asked Jerri to share her feelings on the surprise donation from the Flagler Education Foundation. “We knew we were having some sort of presentation tonight, we did know what it would be. The magnitude of it, I am blown away.” She continued, “This turn out is amazing. I think it’s important that we come together to provide information. To not only receive the support in the form of hugs but financial, it’s overwhelming in a good way.”
Jerri did say that those would like to be involved in the rebuild process are more than welcome to reach out to her, they are always in need of volunteers, services and financial support.
