Farmland fundraiser

to have Bond theme

By BILL RICHMOND

City editor

The seventh annual fundraiser for Historic Farmland USA is a James Bond-themed soiree titled From Farmland With Love.

"We had considered a James Bond theme for last year's party," said Historic Farmland treasurer and planning committee chairperson Larry Francer. "But someone said next year is 2007- we have to do it in '007. When we looked at the calendar and realized that 07-07-007 is a Saturday, we knew we just had to do it then."

The party will include food, drinks, music for dancing, a silent auction and contests. While it is not necessary to dress as your favorite Bond, Bond character or Bond girl, there will be prizes for best costumes. There will also be a contest to see who can get the most olives in their mouth.

Reservations are not required, just show up at the Farmland Cultural Center on July 7 at 7 p.m. Admission is $20 per person.

"It's going to be a great party with lots of fun while raising money for a worthwhile community resource," Francer said.

The party is sponsored by the Winchester Foundation and First Merchants Bank with printing in part by Williams Printing, Farmland.

Francer said Historic Farmland works to make Farmland a vibrant community for visitors, as well as for those who live there. The community group over the past year has sponsored meals at the cultural center for special occasions including a Valentines dinner and a Mother's Day brunch.

"We're working to promote the theme that Farmland has wonderful parties, great food and everything is lots of fun," he said.

The past fundraisers, known as "The Fright in Farmland" were held in late October and had a Halloween theme. Francer said the change in season might become a permanent switch.

"We think summer might be a more pleasant time to come to a party in an air conditioned venue like the cultural center," he said. "It's worth noting that the air conditioning was paid for by the second party."

The Farmland Cultural Center is located at 103 N. Main St., downtown Farmland. For more information, contact Francer at (765) 468-6958.