Where does hope reside? Surely it was present on a November weekend as the Decho Ensemble classical chamber music for two saxophones soared into the heights of the Adams Art Center with selections from Paul Hindemith to Astor Piazzola.

The very next evening an overflow audience held their collective breaths as Toronto’s Crash Mat circus cabaret performers also literally soared to the heights of the building.

Eyes and ears were distracted from the broken lath and plaster which remains part of the reality of this once elegant icon of the city, struggling to breathe once again. And so it shall, assures Matei Denes and William Haskas, architects in charge of Access to the Arts. They have kept their word to open the doors, bringing a smorgasbord of culture to the region, even as formidable repairs are underway. Check the website www.theadamsny.org for progress and programs.

Residents who remember and cherish the richness of the past repertoire of art, dance, music, and classes at the Adams (Haskas was once one of those kids inspired here) can rejoice as the building returns to life. If you missed the inaugural event last month with the exhibit of local artists of the North Shore Arts Alliance under the leadership of Marcia Merrins, or this past weekend of sensual delights, put the Gala on Friday and the Holiday Craft Fair on your calendar for Saturday and Sunday.

But that’s not all. Be ready to become a part of the renaissance. Roll up your sleeves, raise funds, support the programs and let’s do whatever it takes to restore The Adams Art Center. PlusFarm Architects have invested in and believe in this place. We believe in this place.

Let’s bring it back to its glory, an anchor along our Central Avenue, the first among many developments for the Central Connection Initiative and a destination for our children, citizens and visitors. Keep hope alive.

Harriet “Skeeter” Tower is a Dunkirk resident.