I went to the Art and Apples Festival thinking it was going to be a wonderful way of spending a few hours only to discover that dogs are not allowed in the park on special events. I do not understand the logic of this policy and certainly do not agree with the written statement that it is for the good of the dog because there will be many people. Dog owners are not irresponsible people. I would never take my dog anywhere where I felt he or anyone around could be unsafe. I would encourage anyone who made this policy to look at what other countries are doing. Italy and other countries in Europe have completely changed their policy on pets allowing them everywhere, including restaurants!. This was implemented a few years ago and the results are all positive. Businesses are happy because more people are going out with their dogs instead of staying home, families are happy because all members are included, and the dogs learn quickly how to behave in public (much like a young child does when taken out in public, and we all know that the first time a child goes to an event is not always an enjoyable situation for anyone around...are we going to ban children next?). In this era of inclusivity and belonging, shouldn't every member of a family be allowed to enjoy an...
Read moreHorrible school as well as the BBAC in Birmingham.. I put many years into teaching at both "art centers" where they robbed my ideas and individuals used me to propel their own careers repeatedly.. At Paint Creek the director of education Mary Fortuna rewarded a long running student i had in class as well as her children many years by opening up mail sent to me from the mother and accusing us of having a relationship beyond school!! I am still friends with this mother today and her three children are now all adults.. I learned that Mary Fortuna had a long running grudge against my student going all the way back to when they were in college! The school never addressed this aggression.. Much more i can say and will continue to make sure people know about the ongoing abuse in art centers, colleges...
Read moreWe enjoyed the Arts & Apples Festival previous years, and we would have loved to attend this year. Unfortunately, they don't allow dogs in the public park. Not even a puppy chihuahua that would bring a smile to most. And their reasoning is false and condescending, claiming: "While we’d love to meet your furry friend some other time..." and "...a crowd of 60,000-80,000 people each year- that is a lot of eyes looking up at beautiful artwork and live music and not paying attention to your four-legged friend down on the ground." The first seems unlikely; the second is patronizing. If they think so lowly of the public that they assume they can't control where they walk or lead their pet, why allow small children (most of whom would have loved to see...
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