County Arts Grants Total $201,000

TRENTON – The New Jersey State Council on the Arts has awarded more than $201,464 in grants to Cape May County arts organizations and projects.
The awards were announced at the July 24 Arts Council’s 47th Annual Meeting. According to a release, the funds demonstrate “the Christie Administration’s commitment to advancing the arts in New Jersey.”
Organizations and amounts received:
Cape May County Division of Culture and Heritage Local Arts Program, $55,811
Cape May Stage General Operating Support, $19,383
Center for Community Arts General Operating Support, $16,832
East Lynne Theater Company, Inc. General Operating Support, $7,453
East Lynne Theater Company, Inc. Co-Sponsored Project – Family Week at the Theater, $47,548
Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities General Program Support, $54,437
“The funds awarded today will serve as a catalyst for the economic growth and creative vitality of communities statewide,” stated Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, who also serves as Secretary of State. “The cultural assets in every region help shape New Jersey as a unique tourist destination and a desirable place to live, work, do business and raise a family. The arts industry is critical to New Jersey’s future and Governor Christie and I remain committed to maintaining New Jersey’s place as a national leader in support for the arts.”
In commenting on the results of the meeting, Arts Council chair Elizabeth Mattson stated, “The council’s grants process is competitive and transparent, and designed to make the most responsible investment of valuable resources. These funds will have profound positive impact on individuals and communities in every county, improving quality of life in the essential ways only the arts can.”
The council receives funding from the state through the Hotel/Motel Occupancy Fee legislation passed in 2003, which established a dedicated revenue source to support arts, history and tourism. Additionally the Arts Council receives annual competitive grants from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).
The $15.6 million in grants awarded at the meeting include approximately $400,000 from the NEA. Funding decisions are made through a merit-based and rigorous grants process that assures access and equity. Independent peer panels evaluate grant applications to eliminate the possibility for conflict of interest.
“We are grateful that our state leaders recognize the importance of strategically investing in the arts,” stated Mattson. “The arts are a proven tool for success in addressing education, healthcare, economic and community development, and more.”
According to Arts Council records, state arts funding employs an estimated 17,000 workers, supports 37,000 cultural events, and attracts 5 million visitors who spend another $125 million.