On behalf of the Halifax County Arts Council, I, too, would like to thank Sherry Wade, our Chairman, for gathering together an incomparable community team that brought the NC Symphony to the Roanoke Rapids Theater to do what it does best: to Play... and to Play beautifully.

This extraordinary effort would not have been possible without the hard work and generosity of many  individuals and organizations . Our own Halifax County Convention and Visitors Bureau, under the leadership of Lori Medlin, was the leading sponsor for the NC Symphony and for the reception prior to the event. In addition HCVB handled all local ticket sales, an incredibly difficult and complex task. Sincere thanks are due to the diligence of Jenny Lewis, Christina Gordon Wells and Susan Wilheim, our very own Ticket Masters, who made sure that everyone had a ticket and a corresponding seat for the performance!

Events like these need people who believe in possibilities. Phil Hux and First Carolina Agency, was an early sponsor for the NC Symphony's visit.

The Symphony's Special Patrons paid extra for their tickets,  making the symphony more affordable for the community at large. Their generous financial support cannot be understated in helping bring the symphony to the Roanoke Rapids Theater.

Roanoke Rapids Parks and Recreation Department, under the direction of John Simeon, and, with Mike Manning and his team of  hard working elves, decorated the RR Theater with its Christmas décor, setting the stage for Santa and Mrs. Claus’s visit to the Theater, as well as that of the Conductor and his musicians.

Paul Barfield organized  the special afternoon events for children and their families,  making  this Christmas season afternoon memorable for all. Tony Hall, a gifted and dedicated community volunteer,  orchestrated a beautiful Symphony Patron's reception that graced the upstairs theater lobby.

Caroline Long,   Halifax County Arts Council Chair of Special Events, and  Patsy Harrell, an extraordinary community volunteer, helped  steer the event, working countless hours attending to every detail that made the Symphony a reality for our community.

What a treat it was to meet Kipp Pride!  KIPP Pride  students served as ushers, welcoming one and all of our symphony guests with bright smiles, helpful guidance and directions. Their enthusiasm and grace set the stage for the evening's experience.

So  Christmas kudos to our City; to the Halifax County Convention and Visitor's Bureau; to all of our civic minded businesses,donors, students and volunteers  whose generosity  made the NC Symphony's Holiday Pops  possible!

And last, but not least, thanks to all of the Members of the Halifax County Arts Council for their support of the Arts in and for our community.

Tina Gregory