Editor’s note: Dimity Lowell shares with Register readers a letter she wrote to each of Allen County’s commissioners after they announced changing how they support the Bowlus Fine Arts Center, resulting in a cut of more than $50,000 for next year.
Dear Allen County Commissioners,
I am writing today not only as a resident of Allen County, but as a parent and grandparent who has witnessed firsthand the incredible impact the Bowlus Fine Arts Center has had on generations of our community.
The Bowlus has provided my children, and now my grandchildren, with opportunities to learn, perform, create, and belong.
It has become far more than just a building — it is a place where young people discover confidence, develop friendships, and experience the arts in ways that shape their lives long after childhood.
When school is out, there are already limited activities available for our children.
The Bowlus fills that gap by providing meaningful, positive experiences that keep young people engaged in healthy, creative, and productive pursuits.
When children have opportunities like these, they build character, confidence, and community.
When those opportunities disappear, many are left searching for something else to occupy their time, and too often that can lead them down paths none of us want for our youth.
As someone who cares deeply about the future of Allen County, I believe investing in our children should always be one of our highest priorities.
The benefits of the Bowlus reach far beyond entertainment. It supports education, encourages creativity, strengthens families, and gives children a safe place to grow.
I understand that difficult financial decisions must sometimes be made. However, I respectfully ask that funding not be taken away from a resource that directly and consistently benefits our children and families.
If reductions must occur, I encourage the Commission to carefully consider areas that have less direct, everyday impact on the lives of our youth before reducing support for the Bowlus Fine Arts Center.
The children of Allen County deserve opportunities that inspire them, challenge them, and give them something positive to look forward to throughout the year. My own family is proof that the Bowlus has been doing exactly that for generations.
Please protect this valuable community resource. The investment we make in our children today will determine the strength of our community tomorrow.
Thank you for your time, your service, and your thoughtful consideration.
