There’ve been too many deaths of arts people of late – thespian Paul, spouse of NCAC (and, before that, RLT) staffer Linda Bamford; West Coast philanthropist Ann, spouse of composer Gordon Getty (benefactors of CVNC and CVNA); chef Amy, daughter of CORAC’s long-time Executive Director Elaine Lorber; and Thomas G. Ward, 78, a true Renaissance person with deep interest in and commitment to history, the arts, architecture, and more. During his tenure on the board of the Raleigh Chamber Music Guild (now Chamber Music Raleigh), he established an endowment that significantly improved the group’s fiscal health, fundraising ability, and community engagement. He brought the same vision to CVNC and, although its much smaller board did not benefit quite as much from his expansive management style, he inspired all of us to bigger and better things. His work in Washington, at the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation in Brookneal, VA, and for other local groups such as the City of Raleigh’s historic resources and museums program will not soon be forgotten. RIP, friends!