Arts Center Is Only Part of the Dream

I believe I may have a solution to Richmond’s Performing Arts Center funding stalemate (“Show and Tell,” News & Features,” May 25). One word: monorail.

I propose that we add a network of monorail tracks, elevated above the city of Richmond, that would link the site of the proposed Performing Arts Center with surrounding counties, except perhaps Hanover.

This monorail system would allow supporters of the Performing Arts Center, who are almost exclusively non-Richmond residents, easy access to the center site. And since the track system would be elevated, these well-heeled supporters would be able to visit the center for their tea parties, “arts” brunches, senior rainbow parties or whatnot without coming into actual contact with any “Native Richmonders,” if you know what I mean. This would, I feel, remove the largest traditional block to downtown development.

The cost of this monorail system would be far less than what the Performing Arts Center is expected to cost, and once the “Richmond Arts Monorail System” was a proven success, funding for the center itself would be easy to obtain due to the undoubted interest of our nation’s entrepreneurs.

The monorail system could also link Richmond’s famous Canal Walk, the soon-to-rise Brown’s Island Space-Tower-Needle-Thing and the proposed 6th Street Marketplace Demolition Memorial, thereby highlighting our city’s tradition of success.

And, of course, all of this proposed city development will, I believe, result in the accomplishment of our one overriding all-important goal: the fixing of our leaky schoolroom ceilings. Maybe even repair some of the air conditioners.

With a monorail, the sky is the limit. We need to think creatively here, people. And always keep thinking of “the children.”

Frank Watson

“Rwanda” Note Is Worth Knowing

Thank you for pointing out that the heads of states in “Hotel Rwanda” were absent (Rental Unit, Arts & Culture, May 18). I realized that after having watched the movie and what a powerful statement it makes. I feel as though I personally should apologize for turning our backs on such a horrible and senseless act. What the heck were we thinking back then?

Teresa Maio

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