Jim and Bonnie Schmidt, longtime volunteers with the nonprofit Livermore Valley Opera, recently retired from their positions as board president and production manager, respectively.
"Bonnie and I are very pleased to have been a part of the maturing of LVO over the past 14 years," Jim Schmidt said. "We are stepping down but not going away, but will continue to volunteer with LVO."
Jim Schmidt will continue to assist the board with a variety of projects, including the improvement and integration of business systems. Bonnie Schmidt will manage the Nob Hill set storage facility, procure props, and work with the set-building crew.
Keith Sawyer is the new president of the Livermore Valley Opera board of directors. "Jim and Bonnie have been central to the growth and success of LVO, and we appreciate their continued support and assistance," Sawyer said.
Sawyer begins his new role as president as the opera company celebrates its 30th anniversary season, returning to live performances at the Bankhead Theater this weekend.
During the pandemic, Livermore Valley Opera presented two online concert series on the LVOpera Channel on YouTube that received more than 2,350 views. It also posted former operas on the channel, reaching more than 70,000 viewers.
Also the opera company has increased the value of its endowment to improve its future security. "The opera is in very good hands with Keith Sawyer and our talented board and volunteers," Jim Schmidt said.
A key focus area going forward is recruiting volunteers, which are needed to produce the quality operas. To find out more about volunteering, visit LVOpera.com.
