Help Support ACT ONE ARTS INITIATIVE
Performing and Visual Arts an Inspiration for Children to Come
By: James Weaver, Vice President Act
One
I had begun piano lessons when I was
nine years old, but in the fifth grade, my father lost his job. My
mother, a stay -at- home mom, felt for certain she would have to
go back to work as a teacher if there was any hope of me
continuing with the lessons.
My piano teacher, interestingly enough, was unaware of the
financial situation that my parents were facing. She had been
noting my progress, however, and felt that there was something
special about me, worth investing in. As the decision was being
made to cut my lessons, my parents got a phone call. She had
decided to put me on full merit-based scholarship.
As the founder of Act 1 Arts Initiative, I owe it to her that I am
where I am today. In December of 2002, Rosemary passed away at the
age of 62. Rosemary Paulsen was my piano teacher. She was also my
friend and mentor. And she is my inspiration to forge the way for
others to have the opportunity to explore and experience the arts
as I did.
Our three-fold mission is to provide scholarships and funding to
students in grades K – 12, who meet specific criteria to receive
educational lessons in the performing and visual arts. To provide
funding for performing opportunities, including but not limited
to, concerts, musicals, plays and other performance events. And to
make the performing and visual arts more easily and readily
accessible to children and adults in the community.
The Corporation does not contemplate pecuniary gain or profit to
the members thereof, and no distribution of income to its members,
directors or officers shall be made, except that nothing herein
shall prevent the Corporation from compensating members, directors
or officers in exchange for services actually rendered to, or
costs actually incurred, for the benefit of the Corporation in
furtherance of one or more if its purposes.
James is the Composer in Residence, at Galaxy Center for the Arts
in St. Petersburg. Act One Arts Initiative, Inc. is a not for
profit, 501(c)(3) Corporation, founded in 2003. You may support
Act One by contacting James at (727) 254-3600
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