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001City Efl)k <br /> River' <br /> March 31,2021 <br /> John Houlton <br /> First Bank of Elk River <br /> Dear Mr. Houlton, <br /> On behalf of the City of Elk River Public Art Subcommittee,we are writing to you today to ask for your <br /> participation in an exciting new endeavor coming to Elk River! The City of Elk River has commissioned <br /> Milligan Studios of St. Paul to design, create, and install a public art sculpture which showcases the city's rich <br /> history in leading economic transportation efforts both through the highway system and riverway system. <br /> Milligan Studios,an experienced and esteemed sculpture collaborative, has designed and created specifically <br /> for Elk River, a sculpture called, 'SVoStream."It will be located at the eastern entrance to downtown Elk River, <br /> visible from Highway 10/Main Street/Parrish Ave, and will serve as an invitation to travelers and locals alike to <br /> learn how the development and use of several transportation systems has shaped the economic vitality of the <br /> town. Elk River's own Charles M. Babcock was the first commissioner of the Minnesota Highway Department <br /> in 1917. His leadership and forethought laid the foundation for the state's current highway and transportation <br /> system. The sculpture,purposely and thoughtfully located near the Mississippi River, also pays homage to the <br /> history the river played in establishing early settlements and commerce of the region. <br /> The significance of the sculpture doesn't stop there.We are working with several community organizations <br /> including the Elk River Chamber of Commerce,the Elk River Great River Regional Library,ISD 728 schools, <br /> Energy City Commission, and Granite Shores Apartments. In addition,we plan to invite high school students <br /> and area residents to learn some aspects of metal casting with our artists and to join in a variety of public <br /> opportunities that will be conducted under COVID safety protocols. <br /> To complete the funding for this community public art initiative,we are looking for partners like you who see <br /> the value in the story and are able to financially donate to the project. In return for your contribution of$2,500 <br /> you would receive acknowledgment in all publicity and any printed materials. The majority of funding for the <br /> project has been secured through the City of Elk River Economic Development Authority as well as a grant <br /> from the Central Minnesota Arts Board. But we need your help to contribute to this small funding gap to bring <br /> the project to fruition. <br /> Can we count on you to help tell this piece of Elk River's story?As a donor you will he recognized on the <br /> EDA website, in social media posts and in otherproinotional matetYals. <br /> 13065 Orono Parkway <br /> Elk River,MN 55330 <br /> 763.635.1000 <br /> P � MfEREO BT <br /> NATURE <br /> E1kRiverMN.gov <br />