ATLANTA—Some of Georgia’s most distinguished citizens welcomed Divine Performing Arts to Atlanta for the start of its third season. Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin studied dance as a young girl, and has been Commissioner of Culture and on the boards of several arts organizations. She wrote that DPA “has influenced and empowered audiences from around the world through artistic creativity, song and dance.”
Mayor Franklin’s Chief of Staff, Greg Pridgeon, attended for the first time.
“This beautiful display of diversity is important to fostering the multicultural understanding and appreciation that makes America the great country it is,” said Senator Saxby Chambliss in a letter. His colleague, Johnny Isakson, said his state’s citizen’s are “most fortunate to have Divine Performing Arts include our state in their tour.” Andrew Billing is Senator Isakson’s Regional Director, and he also attended for the first time.
Congressman Hank Johnson said his district was the proud home to a diverse and vibrant Chinese-American Community. He represents one of the most culturally rich urban areas in the South, and he praised the Chinese New Year Spectacular. “This celebration is part of a continuum that links to an ancient and noble cultural heritage.”
State Legislator Hugh Floyd attended with his wife, Judy Floyd. He said many of his constituents are Asian Americans, and he wants them to know he is available ready to listen to them.
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