How can I thank you beautiful people of Pike County? I have some ideas, but for now, I want you to know that the Johnson Center for the Arts is one of the most incredible art galleries I have experienced. It encompasses the art, culture, heart and soul of a very special community, region and people. Please know that the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center board, under the leadership of Mack Gibson, is leading the way for this awakening.

I was honored to be a small part of “Behind the Images: Alabama Stories.” The birthing for the show there started when the board asked that I return home to do an exhibit, and I do consider Troy and Pike County to be one of my homes. I prayed that the show honor the people there. Richard Metzger, director of the Johnson Center, and Wiley White, development director, were so helpful in the process and made it come together.

I applaud the local governments, The Messenger, Shelia Jackson, TroyFest, and the host of volunteers who continue to serve so unselfishly.

I thank Tara Nolan, friend, for researching and writing the stories. I also salute those families and friends who have made special financial contributions to make the Johnson Center for the Arts a reality. We have so much to look forward to there.

I eagerly anticipate my return to Pike County and Troy Pike Cultural Arts Center.

Mary Ann Casey