If we were talking about an athletic field...

How much support will a community give to a new facility? If it's a new athletic field, I bet there would be lots of grass-roots support, parent fundraisers, etc. But a group in West Dundee has been experiencing some roadblocks in trying to convert an old, vacant building into a beautiful new performing arts center.

In Crystal Lake, we have the Raue Center. This is a gorgeous facility, but more often than not, hosts professional events with high ticket prices. While it is rented out occasionally by groups, that isn't the aim of this venue. But a venue that would be available to schools without their own stage facilities, to dance studios, sponsoring classes -- that would be a great addition to the community. A lively, energetic space, with professional-level equipment, could help train lots of kids -- and adults! -- in performance. It would give our kids a suitable place to perform after weeks and months of hard work.

Please read this week's Clinic column at the Performer's Parent website. Written by Liana Allison, who is working with the group behind the proposed Fox Performing Arts Center, it will give you more information on this great proposal and how you can support it.