Public Pulse

February 4th, 2010

Saving the Center for the Arts, Escondido

Thank you for taking on this challenge of saving the CCAE.

As you may know, I had tried in 2001 to restructure the CCAE Board, ergo, operations. It was met with much opposition. I lost long time friends over my actions which did not go anywhere. Then finally in 2007 Mayor Pfeiler finally came to the realization that the Center did in fact need to be restructured and appointed Dick Daniels and I to a committee to work with the Center Board. It took Dick and I about 3 months to convince the Board that the only salvation for the Center was to change the business model. It took another 3 months for them to agree to turning the Center into a leasing facility whereby the onus on profit/loss for productions was put on the shoulders of private promoters. The Center could still produce shows however only if all expenses were accounted for up front. My feeling has always been that the city should still support the Center financially but not to the degree that it has in the past.

The Wolfe Report published in I believe 1997 even made the recommendation that the City should financially support the Center for approximately 20% of the operating budget. I have no problem with that. I do hope you get some traction with your editorial.

/s/Ed Gallo
Escondido, CA.

Dog Gone!

I have great news: Oliver, who was featured as one of your Pets of the Week on Jan. 21, was adopted after someone saw him in The Paper! It just goes to show that you can and do make a difference for our animals in the best way – finding them new homes. On behalf of the animals (and me), thank you!

/s/Katie Woolsey
Escondido Humane Society
Escondido, CA.

Helping Haiti

We can really help Haiti after a few months when their basic needs are met and life returns somewhat to normal. Our Peace Corp is an established successful organization with people operating in many countries. Our governments history of pouring millions of dollars to aid the needs of many countries has often been unsuccessful and very wasteful. Peace Corp volunteers serve 27 months including three months of training. They teach English, help small businesses, work in agriculture, and health programs. Just what is needed in a person-to-person program. The Peace Corp would merely need to expand their program to send hundreds of volunteers to Haiti to serve.

Is this proven program too inexpensive and practical for our politicians to support?

/s/L. Neal Hook
Escondido, Ca.

A New Fan

Congratulations.

This is one of the most enjoyable and educational pieces I have read from North San Diego county.

/s/Julio Varon
PRF RESIDENTIAL
Oceanside, CA.

•••••

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