A unique initiative is underway to fortify the cultural cornerstone of Ormond Beach. The Performing Arts Center (PAC) has unveiled a creative fundraiser inviting community members to leave an enduring mark through personalized bricks. These engraved pavers will form part of the new Legacy Garden, set for installation in July 2026. Participants can choose between a smaller 4x8 inch brick priced at $150 or a larger 8x8 inch version costing $250. All proceeds from this campaign will bolster the PAC's mission to enrich the local arts scene and provide entertainment.
The heart of this endeavor lies in its dual purpose: fostering support while enhancing visibility. Lucy Jackman, president of the Friends of the Performing Arts Center, highlights that the garden will be prominently placed near the box office, ensuring it catches the eye of both visitors and passersby. This project not only aims to sustain the center but also to remind the public of the PAC's active presence. Following a minor fire incident in early 2024, which temporarily halted operations, the PAC has since rebounded with renewed vigor, selling over 9,000 tickets so far this year. LC Tobey, who oversees the art gallery alongside her husband, emphasizes the significance of raising awareness about the PAC's ongoing activities.
Beyond financial backing, the initiative seeks to forge deeper ties within the community. Tommy Tobey envisions the personalized bricks as a way to connect generations, allowing families to immortalize loved ones' names for decades to come. This gesture transforms mere spectators into integral contributors to the PAC's legacy. The all-volunteer team behind the Friends of the PAC underscores the importance of uniting residents from neighboring areas in supporting their shared artistic heritage. Art, they argue, serves as a vital healing force, strengthening community bonds and offering solace. As more individuals engage with this project, the PAC anticipates a flourishing future where art continues to inspire and unite.