Re: “Historical Society seeks five-year funding deal”, page 2, May 20 Albertan.
The reporter presented the situation very well, and I thank him for his input on this matter. I thank the council for their ‘suggestions’, ‘sympathy’, and even their ‘support of a formal funding agreement’. However, I was taken aback by the municipality's councillor’s response to the Olds Historical Society's request for long-term funding.
On the town website, under Arts & Culture, the Library, Museum and Archives, Bergen Rocks, and Cornerstone Art Commons are mentioned. And what has been and is being proclaimed by these organizations is the education of the citizens of Olds and the surrounding area.
I have visited the museum many times to research the history of Olds and its surrounding area, and have received a very positive and helpful response in finding what I was looking for.
In this research, I also found that the Town of Olds and its administration suggest that educating young citizens to be good citizens now and in the future is vital.
This history began with the Town of Olds, which was incorporated as a village on May 26, 1896, to provide residences, commerce, and educational facilities for all.
One way the town can continue promoting a sense of the past and commemorate the learning opportunities it has provided is by supporting and promoting the Olds Historical Society now and in the future.
I acknowledge that the Town’s funds are to be used responsibly and ethically, such as in the Olds Library, one of the educational entities within the town of Olds.
Yet I am perplexed at the disregard for funding of another much-needed educational entity, the Olds Historical Society. This organization's mandate is to provide a location where the history of Olds and the surrounding area is available for all to learn about.
A good understanding of history develops good citizens for today and a brighter future for all when the lessons of history are understood and applied.
My question to the municipal council is, why does the municipal council support other educational entities in Olds on a long-term basis, and not include the Olds Historical Society?
Tim Kirby,
Mountain View County
