Paul Berg, Executive Director         Carrollwood Cultural Center

As we launch into 2010 here at the Center, we embark on an ambitious event calendar. During the course of the next twelve months, the Center will host more than 80 productions and have something to offer 37 weekends of the year. Some highlights include the Salerno Theatre productions of Little Women: The Musical and Hitsville USA, which features ‘50s and ‘60s doo wop, rock n’ roll and rockabilly. Play’n Around Traveling Children’s Theatre will return throughout the year to offer high quality children’s productions such as Jack and the Beanstalk and Aladdin. Our Shigeru Piano Series which will highlight our handcrafted grand piano, will run throughout the year. We will also host annual events such as Arts in the Park in March to celebrate our second anniversary and the Masquerade Ball in October. Also, new for 2010 is the introduction of on-line registration for all of our classes.

As we approach our second year anniversary I thought it would be interesting to hear from some of the people that have been taking advantage of the Center since its opening in March 2008. Here are just a few of the responses that I received when I asked for comments on what people have enjoyed at the Center.

Please come out and see us...I look forward to seeing you at the Center.

All my best wishes during this upcoming year.

The Cultural Center has been a source of inspiration and learning for both of my children. I want to be sure that you know how grateful my husband and I are that the Center exists, and that it provides such excellent classes. Deborah H. Owens

Having just relocated to the Tampa Bay area, I was delighted to join the Adult Chorus, led by a professional, enthusiastic and talented artist/ director. The CCC has now become an integral part of my life here. From the art displays and diversity of classes and programs, to the clean functional facilities, to the group of talented contributors, to the multigenerational approach to education and the arts, the CCC has something for everyone. I applaud the contribution of all who make the CCC possible for our local community today as well as preserving the arts for future generations. Sandy Yosha

Band rehearsal this fall on Monday nights has really been a highlight for me during the week! It has been over 35 years since I have performed in a ‘community band.’ The music is fun to play and soothing to the soul. Having a wide range of ages in the group proves that music knows no age. I would hope we could get more people to join in on the fun as we enter 2010. Dave Fredericks

The Carrollwood Cultural Center is truly an artistic gem in our community. The scope of courses and performances is extraordinary for such a young institution. Instructors with passion about imparting their knowledge are a valuable asset to this organization. We are blessed to have this high quality cultural center in our North Tampa backyard. Judy Raab I hadn’t played drums in 40 years, and it has been fun to get back into percussion. This second year is easier than the first and it is fun to be part of a creative group! Carol Shephard

I’m no musician but since I started with New Horizon I’ve learned to read music and meet special people. Laddy Alvarez

I knew I was hooked and intrigued from my first visit…At that time I decided to join the community Chorus and also enroll in a candy making class. I look forward to coming on Monday evenings to sing my heart out and have fun with the group. Lisa Clementi

The Carrollwood Cultural Center has provided me with countless hours of enjoyment learning, fun and friendship. Congratulations to you and the Center for your very successful first two years. My wish is that you continue to provide the community with these amazing opportunities. I will do all that I can to support you in this endeavor. Nancy Manning

As a new music student in my retirement years, bringing New Horizons to the CCC has given me a wonderful opportunity to learn to play music in a group setting. I hope to join the CCC Community Band in the future, and the New Horizons Band is excellent training for this. I’m really enjoying this experience, including meeting new friends with similar interests. H. Ronald Manning