With much dismay, I have read about the plans to not only close the Centennial Conservatory for the next few months, but very possibly, to do so permanently. Something will be sadly missing during the time leading up to Easter, and during Holy Week.
The tropical plants, seasonal displays, cacti and the whimsical wishing well are skillfully cared for by the Conservatory's staff. What effect will closing the Conservatory have on our city's parks, notably Vickers Park, and The Sunken Gardens, which rely on the Conservatory for their bedding our plants? A very sad ripple effect appears to be on the horizon.
What a disappointment that our city Councilors are not being more creative and proactive regarding a concerted attempt to preserve what has been a veritable jewel in our city.
The Conservatory brings immeasurable joy to so many. One only has to read the guest book to see that people from near and far love the Conservatory. The guest book is a testimony to the fact that young and old enjoy its tropical beauty ... especially so, during our lengthy winter months. This little treasure deserves to survive, because of the joy that it has brought to so many, for so many years.
I suggest that an effort be made to consider a number of options:
* While maintaining current staff and respecting collective bargaining issues, why not investigate the possibility of utilizing volunteers? This has proved invaluable to other Thunder Bay institutions, notably the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra.
* Consider a small admission charge, which doubtless the vast majority of visitors would be very willing to pay
* Establish a "Friends of the Conservatory" Committee to brainstorm ideas that will allow the Conservatory to both survive and flourish
* Provide the Committee with a mandate to examine maximizing use of the Conservatory beyond past parameters
* Consider new and creative ways that the public could enjoy the facility
* Develop partnerships with local nurseries, florist shops, photography studios and local artists
* Encourage our local school boards to promote student excursions to instill a love of nature, and a responsibility for stewardship of the earth, through awareness of plant diversity
We, as citizens, have an obligation to do what we can to preserve its history, its tradition, its beauty, and its future.
Patricia Gray-Macdonald,
Thunder Bay
