ART Station Official: Raising of the Green's Success Is 'Critical'

The at is not just a time for green beer, local restaurant fare, auctions and a raffle.

One of ART Station's founders, associate producer and director of development Michael Hidalgo, said the success of this year's "Raising of the Green" is of top importance, given how tough the economy has been; foundations and others simply haven't been able to give as much as in the past.

"It's a critical time in our existence. It's critical that we do well," Hidalgo said.

This year's goal: in the $25,000 range. "That's what we made last year," he said.

“Raising of the Green," is in its 16th year. It features events such as silent and live auctions of items such as art work, theater tickets, meals at Atlanta restaurants and other goods and services;  a raffle drawing for $1,000; “A Taste of Stone Mountain"; music; and complimentary green beer.

"Raising of the Green" is ART Station's second largest fundraiser of the year after , which raised $46,000 last year, an improvement over 2010's $40,000. In past times, the event has raised as much as $75,000, Hidalgo said.

"Raising of the Green" tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance. For more information or to purchases tickets call 770-469-1105 or visit www.artstation.org.