The gift will complete the $200,000 campaign for major improvements to the Golden Pond Planetarium.

“We have achieved over 90% of our goal of raising $220,000, which includes a significant contribution from Pepsi Mid-America,” according to Friends of LBL Executive Director Aviva Yasgur. “Now the additional anonymous generous matching gift means we can complete our efforts if we raise an additional $20,000 by May 1, 2020. We are asking all our supporters and everyone who appreciates the educational contributions of a planetarium in our region to give any amount they can. Every donation up to $20,000 will be doubled before this date.”

Members of the Friends of Lane Between the Lakes Board of Trustees and Advisors will be reaching out for donations on February 24, from 3 through 7 pm during a Call-A-Thon. Supporters are encouraged to call the Friends of Land Between the Lakes at 270-924-2077 or 270-924-2088 prior to the event to pledge their gift. Donations can also be made online by visiting the link below.

According to officials with Friends of Land Between the Lakes, the planetarium is one of only three in Kentucky, and there is not another facility in this region with the same equipment. Officials say it is a public educational resource for schools, universities, adults, and children.

Friends of Land Between the Lakes Board of Trustees President Kurt Veznor said “Our visitors love the planetarium and it is open year-round. Paired with our observatory and the dark skies at the Land Between the Lakes, it creates a memorable and special opportunity for our guests. Please consider a contribution of any amount to keep this facility open in our region.”