The Superior Express -

Jaime Potts, Mankato resident and co-owner of Nuthin’ Fancy Bakery, believes the arts program in schools are neglected when it comes to funding. After the 150th Mankato Celebration, parents approached her and asked for her help in setting up a fundraiser for theater students. “I’ve always been dismayed that schools will fund sports but not art (which is so important to me),” Potts said.

For the fundraiser, Potts came up with the idea to do an iconic Kansas fashion show featuring Kansas themed garments she made (i.e. tornadoes, sunflowers and tractors). The fundraiser, Haute August Nights, is a benefit to support art and theater education at Rock Hills Junior-Senior High school. There will be a pop-up gallery, a silent art auction, artists and crafters selling their works, a fashion runway show, food, music and fun. All proceeds from the silent auction will go to the school to fund art and theater education.

When asked about why she gets involved with so many community projects, Potts said , “I am just happy to jump in anywhere I see room for improvement or where I think my unique skill set can be a service to our community. I love it here and want to see the area thrive!”

Potts and Abby Elkins joined forces to create the ideas for the Haute August Night fundraiser which will be held at the Mankato City Park starting at 6 p.m. on Aug. 27.