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Dreaming about arts centre - Kim Fahner

The recent request for proposals by the Sisters of St. Joseph for the future use of the current site of the St. Joseph's Health Centre has certainly brought out some interesting ideas.

The recent request for proposals by the Sisters of St. Joseph for the future use of the current site of the St. Joseph's Health Centre has certainly brought out some interesting ideas.

The most vocal suggestion seems to be the mayor's dream of a hotel and convention centre overlooking the lake. I fail to see, though, how this matches the requirements set out by the Sisters in their initial call for proposals.

The Sisters of St. Joseph have long been guiding lights in the health and education fields here in the northeast for decades. How does a multi-million dollar investment in a hotel and convention centre link to their desire to help people who may be less fortunate? How is the spiritual addressed in a hotel and convention centre complex? Did the city fathers and mothers forget to read that mission statement?

As a keen supporter of the arts in the northeast, I think of the great good that has been done by the creation of the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts in Parry Sound. It has rejuvenated that community and has shown its commitment to the arts. Rather than build yet another hotel, why not create an uplifting, graceful arts centre on the shores of Lake Ramsey? It would address the power of the human spirit and creation, and it would also bring tourists to Sudbury to take part in arts events. Dance, music, theatre and visual art could all come together under one glorious roof. Without money, though, it just remains my quiet dream proposal for a better (and greater) Sudbury.
Kim Fahner
Sudbury