While I certainly agree that technology is useful for communication and comfort, I believe the arts are where we derive our information, our intelligence, our insight and our appreciation of the world around us. When I read a book, I walk away with new insights into the author’s subject. When I view a painting, I see simple things in new ways. When I listen to a song, I walk away with emotions stirred inside of me.

The experiences provided by the arts may not help make a better, smaller cellphone, but they do further our intellectual, emotional and creative development. The arts make up a large portion of our culture, and I never want to lose that sense of identity.

The Exploring the Arts class at Waterdown District High School aims to make a difference. On December 17, the Exploring the Arts class presents “Art-apalooza,” a music-oriented, non-profit concert dedicated to raising awareness for the importance of the arts.

The concert will feature music written by musical groups created in the class, as well as showcase some of the other Arts programs offered at WDHS Tickets will be available for $5 in advance, sold at the school. All profits from the show will be evenly donated to the Arts departments at WDHS Tickets will also be available for $7 at the door. So I ask you, no, I plead with you: tell your friends, tell your family, tell everyone you know to come out and support the arts.