Quote:
Originally Posted by Traditional_Ale
Providing opportunities for kids is more important and I'm sorry I got a little wonky there. I objected to the comment "arts should be the last thing" because that was too far. Let me put it to you like this (and I can't believe I'm actually going to use this as an example...but...):
Calgary is the marching capital of Canada. Easily. We have four community based music programs that operate marching field corps. Each one of these organizations operates millions of dollars of equipment and an annual budget of over $100,000 each.
None of these programs have ever seen any kind of substantial public money. Granted, the Stampede pays for their group, but the others are left to fund raising drives. And for a 130 piece corps with tonnes of gear, trucks, and expenses. Imagine what breakfast costs!
Yet, the hockey players who are a dime a dozen whine and whine for new arenas and the like while offering nothing back to the city. Whereas these other organizations which have asked nothing bring glory to our city, representing all around the world.
Basically, it boils down to "Redneck Priorities".
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Well said. However, some hockey players do represent Calgary and Canada on an international scale; for the record, we do have Hockey Canada headquarters here; that's an indication that our hockey reputation extends beyond the city.
But you are absolutely right- the marching bands, the Calgary Youth Singers, the numerous choral and Acapella groups could definitely use more funding to provide them opportunities to thrive.
I find anyone who equates an 'artist' to an unemployed, lazy adult is disturbing. That is a severe misconception, and for every case that uses that excuse to sit on their duff all day, there's at least 5-10 who are working jobs for self-sustainment and funding.