The first Arts in the Park was held in 1972, the brainchild of early officers of the Carillon Civic Association (CCA): Frank and Kippy Gilbert, Richard and Carole Towell, Richard and Barbara Towell, and Bob and Pat Lovelace (pictured). The goal was to create an activity that would bring neighbors together and to showcase the lovely, newly integrated community. The first show was held inside the Carillon War Memorial, and as it grew larger and more successful over time, it was moved outside to the park grounds. Pat Lovelace served as co-director with Richard Towell for its first few years, and she then took the helm for over four decades—a remarkable labor of love. When Pat retired, Jennifer Jarrett Hulzing became the current Chairman.
