February marks the return of Jacksonville’s Chinese New Year Celebration – 2013 is the Year of the Snake with a full-day of exciting events to mark the occasion. Please find the events schedule on page 5, including the parade, live performances, art demonstrations, a fun run, cooking classes and more.

The other day, a reader and I were discussing the Review’s increasing focus on the arts in Jacksonville and the impact the arts are making on our small town.

I am optimistic that “art” can be a cornerstone of Jacksonville’s economic, cultural and social base – but it’s not a done deal without community and city support.

In my view, artists are entrepreneurs and deserve to be treated like other small businesses that bring benefit to the city. This not only includes support from residents, but from the city council, mayor, and staff with codes and policies reflecting this position.

The reason is simple. At one time, HISTORY and historic buildings were the town’s claim to fame and how we branded ourselves. Today, with the museum closed and the city pondering what to do with the Courthouse and Children’s Museum, our city leaders would be wise to underwrite the operational expenses of the Art Presence Art Center currently housed in the Children’s Museum. The city should make a long-term commitment to the arts by dedicating at least half of the building for the Art Presence Gallery. The cost would be nominal – the outcome may be inestimable.

“ART” is a natural fit with the MUSIC scene, including Britt and live music venues like South Stage Cellars, Bella Union and Stagecoach Saloon. Art is a natural fit with the 20+ wineries on the Applegate Valley Wine Trail, in-town tasting rooms and a dozen more wineries/vineyards nearby. Art pairs nicely with an impressive restaurant and FOOD scene which includes the J’ville Farmers Market, local cooking classes, and artisan food purveyor Gary West Meats and others. And, the list should include art as a compliment to a recharged “ANTIQUES” scene led by Trolley Stop Antiques, Sterling Creek Antiques, the Barn Company and others.

To look into the matter further, I asked Hannah West, editor of the Southern Oregon Artists Resource website and Art Presence board member to investigate, “Why Art Matters in Jacksonville.” Her well-researched article appears on page 6 and makes the case for investing in and supporting the arts in our Small Town with Big Atmosphere!