The Okanagan Symphony Orchestra is hoping Vernon council likes its tune. General manager Scott Wilson says they're seeking up to 50-thousand dollars from the city and regional district, which would match Kelowna's contribution. Wilson told KISS FM,"The whole point of the (presentation to council) was to show that we're currently supported by our other branch jurisdictions to a greater extent, than we are up here." Wilson says over half of the OSO core musicians live in the Vernon area. He says. Councillor Patrick Nicol doesn't think Vernon should be expected to match Kelowna. "Vernon is a much smaller community than Kelowna. It's about one-sixth the size.We've always made a contribution through the regional district." Nicol says Vernon provides $6,000 to the OSO through NORD but might consider upping its amount to $9,000 which is how much Penticton contributes. "I think that's a better comparison." Councillor Bob Spiers feels the funding should come from the region, not just the city. "It really belongs under the cultural umbrella of the regional district, and it would be up to them to provide the funding." The symphony --which is into its 51st year--needs funding after losing more than 200-thousand dollars in provincial funding and gaming grants over the last year. OSO members Denis Letourneau and Susan Schaffer treated council to a short violin concert in council chambers, just prior to Wilson and Rose Thomson making their presentation.Photo: OSO members Susan Schaffer and Denis Letourneau perform for Vernon council Monday (P.McIntyre)
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