When a friend heard about the search for an executive director by the historic Rose Center in Morristown, Tennessee, he suggested to Rip Lydick, President of the Knoxville Writers' Guild, that he apply for the position. Lydick did apply and was selected for what he declares is his dream job.

"I wake up each day and have to pinch myself to believe this is all true," said Lydick during a meeting of Guild members at the Sunspot Restaurant in Knoxville on July 3.

Lydick began the job three months ago. He was asked as his first official act to present an award on behalf of HC*Excel, a local leader for education advocacy. Lydick explains he immediately broke the award which was made of crystal much to his own terror, however super glue rescued him.

The historic Rose Center was built in 1892 as The Rose School, and was the largest building in Tennessee during that time period. It was used as a school until 1975. At one point, the building was on course to face the wrecking ball, but local citizens saved it from razing. It has since been awarded designation as a National Historic Landmark. It was acquired by the Council for the Arts in 1983.

The Rose Center and Council for the Arts is a non-profit Lakeway Area Cultural Center which has a staff of five, who Lydick describes as "hardworking, dedicated people who do an outstanding job at promoting the Arts to a community of nearly 300,000. Lydick and the Rose Center staff conduct educational activities, fundraising, administration and, also provide building maintenance. Funding comes from numerous sources.

Another important part of the work of the Rose Center is "Music at the Rose," which is funded in part by the East Tennessee Foundation. Lydick says a "hearty band of volunteers has begun to work hard to create a diverse schedule of events including nationally recognized artists who provide a great atmosphere for a casual and raucous good time."

Lydick comes from an educational background of engineering and mathematics and often marvels at how music and the arts relates to the fields of his training. Before taking the position with the Rose Center, Lydick served as Executive Director for A1LabArts, President of the Knoxville Writers' Guild, project Director for Body Sacred, a fine art exhibition curated by Lynda Evans that raised $18,000 for the Knoxville Affiliate of the Susan G. Komens Breast Cancer Foundation and the East TN Wellness Community.

Lydick's immediate plans are to learn about the Morristown community and the Lakeway region. He hopes to continue the traditions of the Rose Center as a place for the expression of music and fine arts.