Arts Funding

It was a shock to me to learn of the draconian reductions in donations from business and corporate sponsors to the highly valued Valley Cultural Center’s “Concerts in the Park” program (“Shift in Corporate Focus Diminishes Donations to Valley Arts,” Aug. 24). Curiously, the reduction of $80,000 in their budget coincides with the $80,000 programming budget for the new Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. The Madrid is owned, staffed and operated by the city of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department.

It appears that the Madrid funding is generated from different sources than the Cultural Center, which may be a good sign. This would enable our community to experience fine live music year-round.

As past president of the San Fernando Valley Arts Council, it was painful to me to note the Arts Council’s current negative attitude toward people and their lack of interest in the arts. Everywhere I turn, I perceive and enjoy arts in all media, all schools from pre-K through college, public buildings, houses of worship, malls, California missions, office and shop decor, ethnic music and dance, and ad infinitum. In my view, people and businesses do have an interest in the arts, and arts are more alive than ever in the San Fernando Valley.

JERRY DOMINE

Winnetka