When it comes to the arts, you gotta believe

There are no lack of things to believe in. Just about everything from letter A to Z. Right now one of the things I believe very strongly in starts with the letter C - as in the Carson Valley Arts Council.

For those who are unfamiliar with this grassroots group they are the ones committed to creating a performing arts center in Carson Valley. After a ballot attempt failed to provide money for such a venue a group of local citizens joined together to determine the viability of building the center with private funds. After several years of slowly building a membership base and a financial foundation the organization struck gold.

Thanks in large part to a major donation by Big George Ventures the group was able to make a down payment on the old Copeland Lumber building on Main Street in Minden. As exciting as this news is, the vast majority of work in the form of renovations still lies ahead. I was aware of the organization for several years before deciding to attend a membership meeting last fall.

I found a group of dedicated and inspired folks who were and are intent on making the vision of opening a performing arts center in the Valley a reality - not just wishful thinking.

That evening I decided to join in the effort by becoming a volunteer. I offer what time and skills I have to help further the cause. There are many others just like myself, but it is not enough.

The organization needs help in many ways. One way is to volunteer. There are many needs with this type of organization and chances are the talents you have to share will be welcomed and useful. Another is to attend and/or help sponsor our winter/spring concert series.

To increase public awareness of the project the council is presenting a series of five concerts. The concerts span a variety of musical genres with a little something for everyone. The concerts go from now until May with the next coming on Friday evening.

That evening master acoustic guitarist Chris Proctor will entertain the crowd with his unique style of playing. Wine and appetizers start at 6 p.m. with the show beginning at 7. Dessert will follow at 8:15 p.m. The suggested donation is $10 at the door. The organization is actively seeking business sponsors to help offset the costs of the concerts.

The organization has an excellent Web site (www.cvartscouncil.com) for a list of all concerts, how to volunteer, and more details about the Carson Valley Arts Council.

Back to that alphabet. The other letter that comes to mind is the letter J- as in will you join us in this ambitious effort to help bring a quality performing arts center to the Carson Valley?

Once you join us you also may also find yourself saying, "You Gotta Believe."

n Doug O'Delle is a Gardnerville resident.