The Rialto Square Theatre has lured a proven fundraiser and grant writer from the Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Kathleen Arko is joining the Rialto in the role of Director of Development. This is significant because the Rialto didn’t get any money from the 60-million arts fund in the capital bill which Governor Pritzker has yet to sign. Arko says she’s already working on getting funds for the Rialto and believes there is more funding out there.

In her 17 years with the Paramount, Arko secured a total of $18-million dollars. The Paramount is slated to get 300-thousand dollars from the Capital Bill once Governor Pritzker signs the bill.