Sacramento will never become a world class city in the way that term is generally used; primarily because we cannot begin to compete with the two world class cities already in our state.
What is, however, world class about Sacramento is that it is a magnificent area for families; a relatively stable, beautiful, diverse, and balanced region that has been attracting families and retirees for generations.
In this article from the editor of the Sacramento Bee, that aspect of world class is noted, primarily through the beauty and importance of the Crocker Art Museum.
It is also noted that the beauty and importance of the Crocker is largely the result of philanthropy and it will be through philanthropy that our other world class attraction— the American River Parkway—will be preserved, protected, and enhanced.
An excerpt from the article.
“Next time you're in one of those conversations about what the Sacramento region needs to become "world class," consider the example of the Crocker Art Museum.
“I'm not talking specifically about the museum's $100 million renovation and expansion, which open next Sunday, its new programs or its added works of art.
“The new Crocker, I think, demonstrates how leadership, determination and the right mix of public and private support can produce not just a handsome building but also a shared vision for community success.
“The old museum was a Sacramento institution that seemed by the late 20th century to have reached the limit of its potential. That tradition, however, became the foundation for an ambitious reinvention led by a corps of passionate local people.
“Most of the money – $73.5 million as of July – was pledged by individuals, corporations and foundations. The generosity of key donors, led by Joyce and Jim Teel and Mort and Marcy Friedman, stands out, as does the scale of the private fundraising.
“The city of Sacramento (which owned the original museum building and collection) contributed $12 million, with an additional $7 million coming from state, county and federal funds, according to the Crocker.
“As a special section in today's Bee illustrates, the new Crocker aims to reward serious art lovers and a wide range of others through exhibits, events and a lively mix of programs.
“From my view, the Crocker and other notable local attractions – among them Raley Field in West Sacramento and the American River Parkway – offer answers to the question of what "world class" really means.”
