Several members of the Little Garden Club met at the High School auditorium on December 7, 2021, for a quick tour of the future Skipworth Performing Arts Center. While some improvements have been made thus far, the project is ongoing and the complex, upon completion, will be a state of the arts center to serve Kosciusko and surrounding areas. In cooperation with the Kosciusko School District, the Kosciusko Foundation for Excellence in Education has taken on the challenge of renovating the 61-year-old structure. Dr. Timothy Alford, Kosciusko physician, community volunteer, and guest speaker presented to the group some of the work done so far: asbestos removed, paint and plaster work completed, and new curtains installed. The month of March should see the placing of theatre seats and restrooms updating. W.G. Skipworth founded the Kosciusko Band Program in 1934 and served as director until 1952. He demanded practice and instilled the importance of hard work. He brought instrumental work to the lower grades and introduced a whole world of music to children. Many of these now grownup children have made generous monetary contributions towards the necessary fund-raising efforts required for a project of this size. The lobby of the beautiful new Skipworth Performing Arts Center has been launched as the Charles M. Grove Hall, honoring the longtime band director, mentor, teacher, and friend. Contact information for the arts center: phone 62-633-1895, E-mail kfeedirector@gmail.com, mail PO Box 1184, Kosciusko, MS 39090.
Members then regrouped at the Kosciusko-Attala Library for a short business meeting. While enjoying a generous and delicious brunch provided by Grace Atwood and Trish Cullen, Kathy Cox reported she had contacted the chairperson for the Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball, and Little Garden Club sponsored Alana Richardson as a princess. Kathy also made a treasurer’s report. Minutes of the previous meeting were read, and the meeting adjourned.
