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Show Page Two - The Springville Herald - February 17, 1988 EDIT Give if some time It is our understanding that an agreement was made between the City of Springville and the Folkfest organization organiza-tion two years ago wherein the city agreed to help financially finan-cially for the first five years of the event at which time organizers believed the festival would be self-supporting and able to operate on its own. It is also our understanding that the city council who made this agreement also realized that it would take four or five years for this event to get off the ground and support sup-port itself, that monies would be paid back to the city when the festival started running on their own. It is also our understanding that the $150,000 grant from the National Endowment of the Arts hinges on the Folkfest. Springville was able to match services in kind and many other things relating to the Folkfest in order to receive this matching grant. Without the Folkfest the city would have to come up with the matching funds or lose this huge grant. Springville is the smallest community in the nation to ever receive this grant. It, along with New Orleans, are to be recognized by the United States Congress for their efforts ef-forts in the arts within their communities. Without the Folkfest, this too, would not be feasable. Springville is planning on building an outdoor theatre at Spring Acres. Without the Folkfest it would seem a great waste of money to build something that would be used us-ed a few times during the summer by other groups. Even though the fiscal budget closing for 1986-87 has not been made and released to the public by the city, it is our understanding that revenues for the 1987-88 fiscal year are coming in far above expectations and the City of Springville Spr-ingville will be in good shape at the end of June. If this is so, why not fund the Folkfest? By law, cities cannot make money. They have to spend it or give it back to the citizens. Why not help fund the Folkfest? The City of Springville gave its support of the festival until 1990. Work to bring groups here starts a year or two before the event. Over 450 people are committed to perform per-form in Springville this summer. If the festival is dropped, another city will grab it. Several have already offered. This event is not something that you have every four or five years. Some other city will take it and reap the benefits every year. Quoting George Frandsen, organizer of the festival, "This is not a little festival in a little town in Utah. It is a national event." We urge the Springville City Council to take a broad view of the World Folkfest. What could it mean to Springville Spr-ingville down the road a few years? Two Springville men had a vision in 1903 when they donated two pieces of art work to start a "nucleus around which an art collection would grow that would be a credit not only to Springville, but to the entire state." That hope has been realized and continues to grow. Early in 1986 George Frandsen of the International Organization of Folkart and Karl Allred, Springville Musician, Musi-cian, appeared before the Springville City Council with a vision. To establish Springville as a starting point for folk dancing in the United States. In their initial proposal they stated that, "Each summer, sum-mer, local communities throughout the state plan events which seldom reach beyond local or perhaps statewide importance. im-portance. By hosting the World Folkfest, Springville has the chance to develop a tradition which may gain national and international recognition." "Perhaps even more important than the recognition Springville will receive from this festival is the cultural experience ex-perience the residents of the city will have. By hosting a dancer or musician in his or her home, the Springville resident resi-dent will have a first-hand opportunity to learn the customs and traditions of other countries. Friendships which will last a lifetime will be formed, goodwill created, and international understanding increased. This is a chance for a very small place to contribute in a very big way." Whether or not to have the Folkfest continue in Springville Spr-ingville focuses on whether or not we have a vision of what it can become. We urge the city council to look further into the budget process and find the money needed at this time. We feel that the Folkfest could make money given enough time to establish itself. A small flat sponge or paper towels kept in your refrigerator vegetable bin can absorb much of the excess moisture collecting there. Gold bullion is so called from the French bouillon meaning "boiling," since the metal must be "boiled" or at least melted before it can be used. (UPS 513 Published Weekly by Art City Publishing Co., Inc. 161 South Main Street Springville, Utah 84663 Phone 489-5651 Publisher Martin W. Conover Editor Patricia Conover Managing Editor Batty Lou Bailey POSTMASTER: Plai ind change of oddrtf to Th Sprlngvlll Herald, 141 South Main St., Sprlngvlll, UT 14641. Second clou pottag paid at Sprlngvlll, UT S4663. Subscriptions in Advance per year $15.00 Out of County Subscriptions per year $18.00 Per copy 50'. Delivered by carrier, per month 1.50 Member Utah Press Association RIAL To remove odors from smelly bottles, pour a little hot water with a generous pinch of mustard powder. Shake and let stand overnight.Then rinse with hot water. The world's first toy was probably a dried gourd used as a rattle. - 060) Pusfor F6Sp0flcis to Nielson Dear Editor, It is important for readers to have the discussion on U.S. contra aid continue in public through the' newspapers. I am happy to respond to Congressman Nielson's recent contention in a letter that giving contra aid is a fight against com-munisn. com-munisn. Do we want to keep communism out of Central America? I certainly do. I believe most Americans do not want communism to become the ruling government in any country, especially not those in Central America. If we examine what is happening in Nicaragua, the facts reveal (Central America Update--1987): 1. The Sandanista Party is not a Communist party. 2. The Sandanista Party contains some proponents of Marxist-Leninism. Marxist-Leninism. 3. The Sandanista Party has actually ac-tually been attacked by the Nicaragua Socialist Party (PSN), the recognized Communist party in Nicaragua. 4. The Communist elements within the Sandanista Party have been unable to change the revolution from concern for a mixed economy, continuing private ownership, and an emphasis upon multiparty constitutional political system. 5. In the 1984 elections, the Communist Com-munist party found themselves an opposition party to the left of the Sandanista party. 6. Therefore, if the Sandanista party is not the Communist party in Nicaragua, we should realize the Communist party does not control Nicaragua. 7. Therefore, the U.S. government should not advocate the overthrow of an elected government especially on which is not communist. Congressman Nielson, supporting the conlras is only supporting the killing of Nicaraguan civilians. Supporting the contras as you have done will not fight against communism. Sincerely George H. Lower, Pastor Springville Community Church Springville, Utah. Reader expresses feelings Dear Kditor: I have been a life long resident of this beautiful city and I have some very strong feelings about it. I feel that the trend your paper has been following this past year and a half has been very harmful to all of us who live here. Your personal vendetta is doing more to demoralize this city than anything that the mayor or city council could even do. City residents (mayor and council included) have been very patient with what has been written and published, but the time has come for responsible journalism. Please use a little integrity when writing your columns and editorials, so that the only newspaper Springville has to offer, is not reduced to one-sided sensationalism. sen-sationalism. Sheila C. Daybell P.S. I attended opening night of the Folkfest last year. It was an enjoyable evening, but the crowd was anything but capacity, and quite a few left before the evening was over. I feel the Folkfest would 'do better, both financially and interest wise, if it were held every four or five years. Money then could be raised in between to finance it and people would be more willing to volunteer their time and services. Police report Purse thefts in Springville were down this week, however, a purse was taken from a coat pocket while the victim was at the Dance Connection. Con-nection. A wallet was stolen from a home and a wallet was taken from a purse left on the seat of a parked vehicle. A citizen found the contents of a woman's purse along the banks of the creek. Loren A. Messick, 114 East 800 South, Springville, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and having an open container con-tainer of alcohol. William Richard Pyne, 387 South 300 West, Springville was arrested on a warrant. Steve L. Tuttle, 99 B Street, Springville, was arrested on a warrant for failure to pay fines. A 16-year old female was taken to youth services for curfew violation. Two youths were reported as runaways from the youth correction center. And a 16-year old female was referred to the youth council for truancy. A 15-year old male was arrested for criminal mischief. Two hit and run traffic accidents were reported and one incident of stolen license plates. A citizen found another license plate. There was one report of annoying phone calls and police responded to 23 animal related phone calls. There was a theft of a keg of beer from Mr. G's valued at $65. A home was broken into while the victims were at church and a small amount of money was taken. A truck was broken into and several parts were taken off from it. Jafen explains council's stand I compliment the Springville Herald for its efforts in its 10 February issue to publicize a problem pro-blem facing our citizens concerning the Springville World Folkfest. The problem: Should the city spend another $35,000 of taxpayer's money to support the Folkfest this year? The Herald devoted more than generous space: the headline article on page one, the editorial, the article by Craig Conover, and the Mark Conroy column. Just one problem: they all told only half the story. None of them made an attempt to explain why the city council and the mayor denied the $35,000 grant. I think it important to detail those reasons to the public to enable a more accurate evaluation and, hopefully, sound decision. That is the purpose of this letter. To begin, I think it accurate to state that the council and mayor agree, as they have publicly stated, that the Folkfest is a highly desirable activity which has, and can, further enrich our cultural lives. All would like to see it succeed. But at what cost? And with whose money? The following facts and questions were factors which dampened support sup-port for the grant: 1. It cost Springville $18,000 and approximately $5 - 6,000 in city services ser-vices and equipment in 1986. Last year, 1987, it cost Springville the whole $35,000 and approximately another $5 - 6,000 in city services. In addition, the Folkfest incurred an additional $27,000 in debt which is still outstanding. This totals to $53,000 in cash and $10 -12,000 in services ser-vices spent on the Folkfest by the city ci-ty in two years. Another $35,000 this year would bring the total cash outlay to $88,000. 2. Folkfest management problems ollifesf confroversary questions and support Dear Editor This past week we presented the question to the citizens of Springville: "Should we have a Folkfest in Springville, and should the city assist in the funding of the festival?" The response has been excellent. 88 percent of the people that have responded have saids "Yes, Springville should sponsor the World Folkfest," with 8 percent voting "No" and 4 percent undecided and 80 percent replied, "Yes, the city should assist in the funding of this project," with 15 percent voting "No" and 5 percent undecided. The response we received was very gratifying. It was interesting, however, that there were several points which were brought up by those who voted 'no support, or had a Support of Folkfest and better Art City image To the Editor: ' The Springville Herald I favor the unique cultural and economic value that the World Folkfest Folk-fest can bring to "Art City", but I am confused by your opinion poll seeking support. What is the meaning of the number 15 in front of the first YES? If you check this box does your support vote indicate your willingness to also personally contribute $1, $5 or $15? In other words are we willing to put our money where our mouth is? If we expect our city officials to be prudent and accountable with public funds (as your editorial suggests), does a NO vote mean that we are opposed to the Folkfest, or does it Your opinion A few of the comments that have appeared on the Folkfest coupon for expressing attitudes and feelings about the festival are listed below. Not proper role of government. Not every year. Absolutely ! Wake up Springville City! Not if it is going to be a financial drain on the city. Without free dinners for the Mayor. We love it! Springville city cannot afford to even pay their employees, or give them raises. What's more important the citizens of Springville or people from other countries who do not pay taxes in Springville. Why pay the Folkfest to come to Springville. Use the money to aid community activities. Hell No! Don't care. We would be foolish not keep the Folkfest in Springville-economically, Springville-economically, artistically, socially and politically-please reconsider your decision. I thought we voted in city officials who could vote correctly on an issue as elementary to what Springville stands for as this! Can we vote again The Springville Herald COMMENT PAGE were a major factor in last year s losses. Some items of specific concern con-cern were the absence of a chief executive ex-ecutive officer capable of exercising requisite operational control, the lack of a qualified financial officer to control funds and ensure proper spending procedures, and no board or director representation for major ma-jor activitiesinterests, e.g., the housing chairman. 3. The Springville World Folkfest is a private, non-profit corporation over which Springville City has only indirect control via a city councilman coun-cilman on the board of trustees. Even the name of "World Folkfest" was filed on by a Mr. George Frandsen Frand-sen of Salt Lake City, Utah, on 29 August 1986. 4. While there are some who strongly support the Folkfest, feedback feed-back indicates that citizen support is less than overwhelming. The big question is does even the majority support it for another $35,000 worth? Most question the practicality of a yearly performance and suggest one every three to five years. 5. Considering all these factors, I express skepticism about the projected pro-jected $70,000 net profit for this year. Such a turnaround would require dramatic improvement in both management and financial skills and community support. While those directly involved have, with pure intent, in-tent, assured that such changes have and will be made, I am not yet totally total-ly convinced. 6. Even if the Folkfest were to succeed, suc-ceed, have opportunity costs been sufficiently reviewed? What are the opportunity costs? In other words, are there other ways to spend $53,000 cash and $10,000 in services which would benefit the city as much or perhaps even more than the Folkfest? question." These people appeared to have a misconception of the method of operation of the Folkfest. Some of these misconceptions were: 1. "That all Board members were compensated $15,000 to $20,000, each." Actually, no one on the Board received any compensation as a Board Member. 2. "That George Frandsen, as the general director, received a $30,000 annual salary." In the two year period of the Folkfest, George has not received any salary or compensation, com-pensation, other than a minimal reimbursement for telephone and travel expenses incurred as he obtained the performing dance groups from various countries. 3. "That some felt that any money contributed to the Folkfest by the city had to be paid back, as per demonstrate a sincere concern for the economic debt that the city, the citizen and the country is presently experiencing? Enclosed is my check for $15 to support the Folkfest or to used for promoting a better ART CITY image. Patiently, Rell G. Francis Editor's note: OOPS! Obviously one of the proof readers goofed after the typesetter goofed. The number 13 should not be there. The Folkfest committee thanks you Rell for your donation. Donations from others would be appreciated. Indeed, are we willing to put our money where our mouth is in order to enjoy fine things like the Folkfest in our Community. is valued on city officials? Maybe the paper would get a different "outcome" on that now-as I'm sure you will get on this Folkfest! It looks as though some people would like to see Springville dry up and blow away! We can't have any businesses or recognition of any kind. They want people to live in Springville to pay taxes and utilities at ever increasing rates but do not want to make it beneficial to live here. I am very tired of having to go to Provo, Orem, or Spanish Fork to do the majority of my shopping. I wish Springville would get on the ball and catch up with the times. To whom it may concern, we are very disturbed about the things that are going on in our city, and are wondering what is going to happen next. The underhanded way things are being done is very alarming to those of us who are proud of our city. Most sports fans know the length of a football field (120 yards including in-cluding end zones) but few know its width.. .which is 53 and one thir-dyards. thir-dyards. Some dinosaurs were no bigger than chickens are today. 7. Should any tax money be spent on the Folkfest? Against these concerns the decision deci-sion to bet another $35,000 must be weighed. While the recent increase in electrical rates - which is really an increase in taxes - is enabling the city to hold its own, careful husbanding husban-ding of all resources continues essential. One final question: How much culture does Springville desire? How much is it worth to be on the international interna-tional map? How noble can we afford af-ford to be? Even more importantly, who should make these determinations? determina-tions? As far as I am concerned, the desires of the majority must and will be honored. It is imperative, therefore, that the majority make an informed, sound decision. When they do so, with a maximum of information, informa-tion, there exists a high potential for success and respect among citizens and city fathers and commitment to full support in carrying out the decision. deci-sion. May I close with a favorite Thomas Jefferson quote which I think should be read daily by all who hold public office. "I place economy among the first and most important virtues, and public debt as the greatest of dangers to be feared. To preserve our independance, we must not let our rulers load us with perpetual debt. If we run into such debts, we must be taxed in our meat and drink, in our necessities and in our comforts, com-forts, in our labor and in our amusements. If we can prevent the government from wasting the labor of the people, under the pretense of caring for them, they will be happy." Thomas Jefferson John M. Hafen draws contract." In the resolution of February 3, 1987, passed by the City Council, in which a $35,000 was provided each year through 1990, subject to approval by the City ' Council, no mention was made that the Folkfest was "required" to repay the full amount of the funding. 4. "That some felt that the performers per-formers were placed in the homes for too long a period of time." This is true, and the proposed schedule for the 1988 festival has reduced the time considerably. Some have suggested that the festival be held on an "every other year basis." This festival is similar to the Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City or the Pageant of the Arts in American Fork; once the festival is established and interest in it is gained, not holding it on an annual basis will negate many of the benefits that were accrued through advertising and word of mouth. One of the other reasons for an annual festival is that we learn from each year's festival ways in which to improve and make it more cost effective. The Shakespearean Festival has been operating for 20 years and still they continue to refine their processes; they have become an international landmark for this drama. As the Springville World Folkfest progresses in refining the festival, it, too, can become an international landmark for folkdancing in America. We certainly appreciate the response of the citizens of the city, and we would hope that through their efforts we would be able to continue this most worthwhile project. Colleen Drollinger Board of Directors CIIIIIHIIIIiaillllllllHiailllllllllHbllHHINI 1 5 s s FRESH 1988 SEEDS in Stock Packets or Bulk Largest Variety anywhere also Starter Pellets, Potting Soil, Peat Pots, Flats and other supplies for starting plants now. I i S X I s i 5 i i S x 3 mm O s x g X mm IrTenterSeedCo,! S 103U South Sfrt I 5 "Two btofcs iovft) t$amtry 2 imuHiiioiiiiiiimiiaiiiNHiiiicMNiiitf |