City Council and Mayoral Candidates to Discuss the Arts [Wednesday, 7pm at the Paramount]

As April 1st approaches, there's one event taking place that we hope turns out not to be a joke; on Wednesday, the Austin Mayoral and City Council candidates are gathering at the Paramount to present their position on the arts. The cast of potential leaders will have time to share their visions for the future of the arts in our city and answer audience questions. Former Austin City Council member Betty Dunkerley will moderate the event.

Numerous performing and visual art organizations around town are requesting the attendance of those who care about the creative culture of Austin. A large turn out at Wednesday's event will help emphasize the important role that art plays in the lives of many locals. The city's future leaders will no doubt be facing tight budget concerns and pressure to cut programs, but in a vibrant community like Austin, jobs and stability can be created out of funding for the arts.

The forum begins at 7pm on Wednesday at the Paramount (713 Congress). Free parking will be available at the One American Center (600 Congress) after 6pm. In addition, refreshments and snacks will be available at the theater's bar, so you pretty much have no excuse not to show up and show your support.

The candidates will hold another forum, Urban is Core, on Saturday to discuss their positions on creating a livable urban environment. Saturday's forum will be held at St. David's Episcopal Church (301 E. 8th Street) from 10:00am until 1:30pm. Austinist is a co-sponsor of the Urban is Core forum.