ROANOKE TIMES 

                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, May 5, 1990                   TAG: 9005070330
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-9   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

THE ARTS THRIVE IN RURAL AREAS

I READ with pleasure the recent articles that featured the growth of the arts in rural areas.

As further proof that "poor" does not always mean culture-poor, I call your attention to the Alleghany Highlands, encompassing Clifton Forge and Covington. The Alleghany Highland Arts Council has brought performing arts to this rural area for more than 10 years now, with enthusiastic local support for a variety of forms, from symphony orchestras to dance troupes.

Another group, the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center, has maintained a beautiful facility with galleries and a shop featuring quality craft items, most of them from the local region.

What is most newsworthy is the community support for the quality offerings of these groups. Rural areas appreciate good culture and respond in a warm and appreciative fashion. ELAINE FINESTONE CLIFTON FORGE 


 by CNB