Calgary Arts Development is just over 18 months old. We've just celebrated the first anniversary of Holly joining the team as our Knowledge Manager (our 3rd full time employee, after me and Michael). All considered, we really haven't been around very long. As the past year flew by, we had our heads down, focused on researching and beginning a process of reform to the municipal granting process... the mechanism by which we invest in the community.

Our merger with CRAF (now the Grants Committee) is nearing its first month. We had a very successful workshop weekend with our new Grants Committee volunteers in Canmore in mid-November. And now, we have the terrific news that Calgary's City Council has approved our recommended $502,500 increase in annual arts investments.

We're very pleased that all of our work has been so well received. We could not have done it without the enthusiastic commitment and trust of the community. You filled out our giant surveys, drank iffy coffee in our focus groups, met one-on-one in interviews with Judy, came to information sessions and listened to me talk endlessly about our plans, AND attended City Council meetings to show your support. We do our work because of you, and it feels great to be able to turn those plans we've been talking (and talking and talking) about into action.

There's a lot more news coming, details to be ironed out, etc. I want you to know that we sincerely appreciate your continued patience and support as we move together into a new era of growth and opportunity.

Thanks!

[and extra special thanks to the CPAA! Your support was invaluable these last few days.]