Mohawk Valley Times

Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks) expressed his pride and congratulations to the 14 organizations and artists in Assembly District 118 who were awarded a total of $907,000 in grant funding through the New York State Council on the Arts. In a statement, Smullen stated, “Congratulations to all the organizations and artists from our community who received grant award funding for projects this year.” He highlighted the significance of arts and creativity in the community, stating, “Arts and creativity are vital to our community’s economy, culture and sense of identity in the Mohawk Valley and our entire state." Smullen also expressed his enthusiasm for the future of these projects, saying, “I am very excited to see these projects take off and see these remarkable art programs continue to enrich and breathe life into our district for years to come!”

The grant awards will support a variety of projects in the district, including the Adirondack Historical Association's museum, the Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts' theatre commissions, visual arts, and partnerships, as well as the Caroga Arts Collective's music program and Historic Fort Plain, Inc.'s architecture and design initiatives.

The funding provided by the New York State Council on the Arts aims to aid organizations and artists, particularly those in rural areas and communities still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants play a crucial role in sustaining and fostering artistic endeavors that contribute to the local economy and cultural landscape.

Assemblyman Smullen expressed his support for the recipients and their projects, emphasizing the positive impact they will have on the community. The diverse range of initiatives supported by the grant awards is expected to enhance the artistic vibrancy of the district and contribute to its cultural growth in the coming years.