To the Editor:

The Dec. 10 story “Cash woes at Chocolate Church?” (Page A1) was not news and was incomplete at best.

We know the Chocolate Church Arts Center faces a variety of challenges. A better story would summarize the existing problems and address this question: What are they doing now to address the issues? Who is involved now? And, if you wanted to help, what could you do?

The story should have noted progress made. In just the last six months, The Chocolate Church has partnered with American Legion Smith-Tobey Post 21 to develop the Christmas Music Pass for veterans so they and their guests can enjoy their choice of holiday performances at no cost, presented the sold-out “An Evening with Judy Collins,” developed a series of Friday concerts featuring local musicians, and now is producing “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” landing a huge grant from Bath’s Davenport Trust Foundation to reduce ticket prices.

Your reporter also neglected to note that Executive Director Jennifer DeChant, our District 62 state representative, began serving, pro-bono, in July. Ms. DeChant has added other programs with the intent of bringing people in the door and developing a broader base of community support. What else — exactly — is she doing, and why? That’s the news.

I began volunteering there in 2007. Ms. DeChant’s commitment has invigorated me to do more for them because, to succeed, they need more. If your readers want to help, you should encourage them to follow her lead and call up to volunteer or donate.

This is one part of the ongoing the story of a struggling local arts organization — one which is worthy of our community’s time and money.

On a practical level, did you notice the roof is recently new? That was the result of a big push involving major donors.

There is depth and diversity in those who support The Chocolate Church, and more than a few of us think it’s worth saving. If you want to join this effort, call 442-8455.

I believe the arts has a place in our community. Generations of Mainers have enjoyed programs at The Chocolate Church Arts Center. In order to make them happen year after year, good people must give time and money.

The payoff on the investment is intangible, but The Chocolate Church consistently educates our kids and develops our community in positive ways we can’t quantify.

I hope you and your readers will join me, Ms. DeChant and the committed donors who provided a new roof in making that investment in our town and our future.

Roger S. Duncan
Bath