Celebrating the arts

Editor,
One of the first qualities that jumped out at me upon my move to Porterville 15 years ago was the quality of the arts programs locally, and the level of commitment to the arts culture.

Through the years, I have seen this commitment grow and expand to include even more opportunities for the development and expression of the arts from music to theater, sculptures to paintings, and dance to vocal arts. Porterville is truly a community which enjoys art.

In a celebration of the arts, a grass roots community committee — spearheaded by the American Association of University Women — will offer a unique event which will focus on the aforementioned arts as well as the sometimes lost “art of communication”. Saturday, Oct. 13, will mark the inaugural “Dinner & Arts on Main Street” event to be held in and around Centennial Park starting at 6 p.m. Patterned after an annual event held in Paris, this activity will invite the public to pack a dinner, set-up a table or blanket in the park, and enjoy the multi-cultural arts of the community. Attendees will be encouraged to dress casually or formally in black and white, and join in this mutual enjoyment of the arts, good food, great company, and local community. There is no cost to attend.

Musical and dance performances will take place, art will be on display for viewing, and dinners will be available from local restaurants or bring your own… all in the name of celebrating our community’s appreciation of and dedication to the arts. The Chamber, City of Porterville, Porterville Art Association, and Imagine Community Art Center are pleased to join AAUW in this effort that speaks to the quality of life in our community. Businesses, organizations and individuals seeking more information on attending and/or participating, can give us a call at the Chamber, 784-7502. I hope you’ll save the date of Oct. 13 for this celebration of art and community.

Donnette Silva Carter, IOM
President/CEO
Porterville Chamber of Commerce