Event begins, ends at Flagler Auditorium

While Hurricane Irma disrupted events in Flagler County, forcing some organizers to cancel or postpone annual activities, the chilly weather over the weekend didn’t deter supporters of Arts in Education who turned up Saturday for the Masquerade 5K.

Cheered on by those who have received grants funded by the Arts in Education program, like Flagler Palm Coast High School band director John Seth and choral teacher Amy Fulmer, runners took their marks heading off around the school’s campus from the Flagler Auditorium.

Lisa McDevitt, the auditorium's executive director, said she was impressed by the tenacity of the 100-plus participants who turned out for the event.

“I think the dedication of these runners and walkers getting up and running in 32-degree weather to support arts in education was phenomenal,” she said. “The awesome thing is (Flagler School Superintendent James Tager) placed first in his age division.”

McDevitt said events like the Masquerade 5K have helped Arts in Education disburse about $164,000 to students since 2011.

"To watch some of these kids get to participate — they'd never be able to do it without the funding," she said. "And helping the teachers through Arts in Education, it's heartwarming."

Kim Fitzgerald bundled up Saturday morning to cheer on her husband, Brian Mason, a seasoned athlete.

“As a member of the Auditorium Governing Board and being an avid local runner, it was a privilege to run in the Masquerade 5K, which benefits the Flagler Auditorium and the Arts,” Mason said. “Luckily, I run faster in the cold … so I was every happy with my finishing time.”

The event is traditionally held during National Arts in Education week in September but Hurricane Irma nixed those plans in 2016. But McDevitt is already planning for the 2018 Mardi Gras-themed event.

“It's so much fun to host an event like this, especially when they dress the theme and to see people walking and running for arts in education,” she said. “This year’s date is Saturday, Sept. 15, at the ending of National Arts in Education week. The main purpose is to bring awareness to Arts in Education.”

The Arts in Education program provides grants and scholarships for teachers and students studying or dedicated to the arts.