BELLEVUE, WA.- On July 17, 2010, more than 420 enthusiastic art aficionados, political officials, business leaders and community members gathered in celebration of Bellevue Arts Museum‘s annual fundraiser, Artful Evening. A much anticipated Eastside signature event, Artful Evening raised an astounding $575,000* in support of BAM’s exhibitions and the Museum’s growing educational and community programs. The Raise the Paddle portion of the evening alone, where guests directly donate to the Museum’s programs, generated over $287,000 – a wonderful demonstration of the community’s continued dedication to BAM. $100,000 were matched dollar for dollar by an extraordinary challenge match, established by BAM board members Carol Auerbach and Albert Berger, Patty Edwards as well as Norma and Leonard Klorfine. “We are immensely grateful to the many individuals and businesses who help us bring world-class art, craft and design into