Contact: Laurie Andres
laurie@fullcompass.com
voice: 800.356.5844 x 1305
MADISON, WI – Full Compass Systems, a national leader in professional audio, video, AV, lighting and musical instrument sales once again sponsored Circus of Chefs… The Gala 2012. Owners Jonathan and Susan Lipp, in cooperation with Co-chairs Merlin and Jenele Zitzner, owners of the Baraboo National Bank, organized the event that hosted 600 guests on June 10th. The ninth annual gala raised over $173,000 for Circus World Museum, a site owned by the Wisconsin Historical Society that focuses on preserving the history of circus entertainment and memorabilia. In addition to countless hours of preparation, Full Compass also staffed the event.
Circus clowns and performers, as well as live jazz, entertained attendees as they dined and viewed a breathtaking array of over 330 auction items. Donors enjoyed free martinis and tasted gourmet food, wine, beer and coffee from 36 local restaurants, breweries and wineries. The top chefs received coveted Silver Tray awards for best appetizer, entrée, dessert, beer, and wine. The winners were chosen by a panel of 20 judges, each an expert in their field including chefs and chef instructors, brewmasters, pastry chefs, TV cooking personalities, and wine makers. After the meal, the crowd was treated to The Big Top Show, a sampling of circus entertainment featuring aerialists, a juggling act, horse tricks and a performance by master illusionist, Tristan Christ.
In addition to the Lipps themselves, many Full Compass employees participated in the gala. Some assisted in advance by designing the program book and helping with other planning and preparation efforts. Others worked the event assisting with setup/teardown, technical support for the live auction and staffing the unique “cork auction” where guests can take home a variety of fine wines and premium spirits.
Susan Lipp stated, “Jonathan and I have always felt the importance of giving back. We are so appreciative of our staff and everyone else who has helped to keep this important national treasure alive.” Jonathan Lipp serves as Chairman of the Board of Circus World Museum.
