Many of the community events and activities in this town that bring our community together come from the Hanover ARts and Activities Center. Even though the building itself is a wonderful, historic building that is a lovely place for gatherings and weddings, the Center is much more than the building. It sponsors many of the programs and activities that bring our town and county together. I helped to found and continue to lead the Ashland Musical Variety Show. As far aw we know, we are unique probably in the country in the way that every other year around 350-400 sign up to sing and dance together for rehearsal that last 3 months to put on a show for 3 nights in the Randolph-Macon auditorium. The community building that occurs during those rehearsals is significant for the health and vitality of our area. People from different neighborhoods, businesses, races, economic backgrounds, ages, interests, and experiences sing and dance together--causing a feeling of unity and understanding. We have been doing this since l982. I also work with the Hanover Idols competition--helping to organize the auditions before friendly judges and the show for the Finalists. We had two sold-out shows in the Hanover ARts and Activities Center that allowed people with singing talent to share that talent with their friends and family --in a friendly way. Again, the friendships that were forged through the experience will continue. My first experience with the Center was when our two daughters went to pre-school in the basement and the Ashland library was housed there. Whenever there has been a need in our town or area, the Center has met that need.