This is a very significant development. It shows that important artists, who we want in our community, care about people getting paid a living wage. We don't think he's the only one to feel this way.

[People were] highly angry over the idea that someone from outside the community could come in and insult them on their turf, ... I heard that repeatedly.

I'm glad you could join me tonight to celebrate the efforts of this community of artists and volunteers. I like to think we're all here because we believe in the value of art in our lives, and especially in our children's lives.

I'm really excited about having a community of artists. This is the cornerstone for turning Breckenridge into a leader in the arts.

Charleston is very fortunate to have a significant number of working artists located in the community. We strive to be philanthropic, donating our art to numerous local charity events, and many of us open our studios and provide demonstrations to youth groups.

You can put art experiences in different parts of the community where people who are shopping can take a break or explore an adjacent historical neighborhood unique to the city.