We are overwhelmed by the show of support from our community and from all over the country. While there are so many more pressing issues we all face in these chaotic times, the simple act of standing up for what you believe in can have a positive effect that radiates out into society.
Since posting the petition we have been contacted by numerous news outlets and blogs to tell our story and correct some of the statements made by the city regarding the mural. Almost immediately, several local lawyers reached out offering their services pro bono and Jon partnered with Beth Jones (Montoya, Hisel, & Associates) to help negotiate with the city of Salem. Beth made contact with the city attorney and within a few days managed to successfully negotiate an amendment to the mural application's easement clause on our behalf. The full application for the mural has been submitted and and we are now in a public hearing phase which is to conclude March 9th at the meeting of the Salem Public Arts Commission. The commission has final approval of the application so it would be helpful if anyone wishing to support us send a respectful message or voicemail to the Public Works Dept at City of Salem.

Once again, our hope is simply to encourage more public art with less bureaucratic red tape and unnecessary easements. With the long list of issues facing our city and our communities, the last thing our government should be wasting resources on is policing the freedom of expression on private property.

We will update everyone as we find out more. Jon and I both thank you again for your support.

Semper Fidelis
Dean Howes