Letters to the Editor

MAIL BAG LETTERS FROM READERS

August 18, 2008

Artist calls for support, funding in county’s southern region

I am an artist. I am an advocate for the promotion of the arts to stimulate the economic growth in the southern region of Luzerne County. I am a concerned citizen.

The recent issues with the countywide reassessment have stirred many emotions. I believe the project will proceed in a fair manner and generate new income for the county. It is my hope for the careful distribution of these precious tax dollars.

How will our political leaders spend this money?

There are many obvious locations not receiving the attention.

First, trust must be established. This might be difficult because of the recent abuses of public positions and conflicts of interest. Personal financial gain apparently motivated business transactions. The debit card scandal damaged credibility. We read about these situations every day.

This letter is serving as a public request to use our tax dollars in the most efficient manner. I understand everyone is in competition to fund their nonprofit arts organizations. I ask our leaders to consider with a watchful eye how the funds will be spent. The small amount of money set aside for the arts must go to the locations where it is most urgently needed. There are recent articles and news reports about the decline in growth of the Wilkes-Barre area. I am sure there are statistics to support these findings. I see obvious improvements in the northern region of Luzerne County. The focus has been concentrated there.

As an artist I suggest the following:

1. Assign a committee member to the southern region to spark an arts focus.

2. Respond with prompt action and follow-up with any tentative plans for collaborative projects.

3. Create inexpensive exhibition fees and find locations to attract more artists.

4. Promote and support the local artists in the southern region.

5. Focus on community arts projects.

The last suggestion can enhance the crime-intervention programs currently in place. New programs could be considered. Community arts programs also can contribute to preventative drug and alcohol abuse programs.

I am discouraged with some of our area nonprofit arts organizations. There tends to be a selfish attitude in presenting exhibitions to promote their organizations. It is time to think in a different way. It is time to think as a community.

Our county has debt. Our county has crime, substance abuse issues, a high elderly population and environmental concerns.

Change your thinking and move in a different direction through the arts!

Kathy Dobash Hazleton

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