The Scoop - October 27, 2014
Posted by Michael Frueh
on Oct 30, 2014
The annual Arts Advocacy Luncheon was a huge success!
Today's meeting was the 3rd annual arts advocacy luncheon, and our speaker was Donna Collins, executive director of the Ohio Arts Council. Most of the normal meeting agenda was shortened or skipped to allow for the extended program, which included a marimba ensemble and 2 soloists. The absolute show-stopper of the day was a song from Ragtime, which was very powerful and received a standing ovation.
Donna Collins gave us an overview of the Ohio Arts Council - the major distributor of state and federal arts funding in Ohio. Despite major cuts in their budget in 2010, and a budget cutting frenzy by the current administration - the council has been able to see their finding return to 2010 levels, and they expect an increase in 2015. This amazing effort is the result of incredible pressure from the various arts organizations around the state, and the companies that sponsor them. The message was sent loud and clear that the arts has a major impact on the state's economy, and that reducing funding for these organizations is not wise.
Kevin Creamer, director of the Fox stations in Lima - talked about the stations "Spotlight on Scholar Artists" program at the station, which highlights a high school artist for outstanding achievement. We've all seen these spots for athletes - and it's a welcome addition that we see hard working students of the arts as well.
The luncheon ended with the presentation of the Arts Advocacy Awards, which brings attention to each facet of a successful artistic endeavor. First, there is the creator, which went this year to Tekla Murphy for her work to establish a dance program in the public schools. Also important is the arts advocate, who is involved in the support and management of the arts. Rotarian Michael Frueh won the award, in recognition of his long term involvement with local arts organizations, and a recent rebuild of the VMCC lighting system. The third award is for the philanthropist - which was awarded to Beverly Hawk for a lifetime of supporting local groups like the Lima Symphony Orchestra. All three components are vital to a successful arts event, program, and community. Congratulations !!
