Recognizing the Rozsa Awards and the 2009 Winner Tom McFall
Ms Blakeman:
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Earlier today I was able to introduce four of the five Edmonton arts managers who were nominated for the Rozsa awards. I am proud, proud fit to bursting, of these wonderful administrators. All of them work in the fabulous constituency of Edmonton-Centre.
As an arts administrator in my life before politics I so admire the skills, discipline, imagination, and talent these dedicated people have. They run organizations with multimillion-dollar budgets. They account for every penny to several levels of government and to the private-sector donors. They do more with less year after year after year.
Given the field, it is high praise indeed to honour Tom McFall as the recipient of the 2009 Rozsa award. For 10 years Tom has reinvigorated the Alberta Craft Council. He’s created a centre of excellence by developing strategic plans with the board, establishing a downtown gallery and a shop to showcase and, more importantly, sell his members’ fine crafts. Under his direction Alberta has increased its international reputation with Alberta fine craft artists exhibiting at the Smithsonian and now in South Korea at the 2009 Cheongju International Craft Biennale in Cheongju.
Like his colleagues, Tom is passionate, savvy to the market he works in, and collaborative with other artists and arts organizations in Edmonton and in Alberta. That is the secret weapon, Mr. Speaker. Alberta artists work together to survive in what can be a hostile environment. Tomhas also volunteered his time with various art advocacy efforts and continues to provide leadership when asked.
I urge my colleagues to support these people and their organizations directly. Consider buying theatre tickets for volunteer recognition. Use the Craft Council items for silent auction contributions. Advertise in a festival brochure. My admiration and respect to all of you, my administrative colleagues, and especially to you, Tom. It’s very impressive. I know your staff and your family are very, very proud of your work. We are all grateful for what you all have brought to Edmonton and to Alberta. Thank you so much.
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