Hello, Everyone!

A new year means new beginnings. For Hillsboro, it means the opening of Sequoia Gallery, downtown on Third Street. This coop effort affords studio space for artists who may not otherwise have a place to create their work. A classroom for teaching and gallery space for showing is now open and waiting for you to visit.

For HCA, January means planning for Showtime at Shute Park, the longest running free outdoor summer concert series in the state. We are reviewing bands and scheduling dates for Thursday evenings beginning the first Thursday after the Fourth of July.

Rise Above, our art program that involves homeless youth, is up, running and doing well. We are very thankful to the Rotary Club for making us a recipient of their annual fundraiser last December. This program depends on public funds and art supplies while we wait for grant opportunities to open up. Every donation is appreciated.

The success of our community depends on how well we who live here are connected to each other. Many opportunities exist to do just that. Discover your community by venturing out to the new production at HART Theater. Attend an Oregon Chorale or Hillsboro Symphony concert just right around the corner. Check out the events scheduled at your local school and see how proud you can feel about the education of our youth. Develop relationships with your fellow citizens by showing up (80% of success) and participating within the culture you help to create.

So many of the rewards in life depend on your effort. Put out some effort this year and show up. Your community will benefit and so will you.

Victoria Shepard
President