Local organization receive grants from arts council

McHenry County legislators, along with representatives from the Illinois Arts Council, announced more than $30,000 in grants for local arts organizations.

"Given Illinois' current fiscal climate, receiving any amount of grant support is a tremendous accomplishment," said Sen. Pamela J. Althoff (R-Crystal Lake).

"McHenry County is truly fortunate to have tremendous arts organizations who have worked diligently to achieve excellence in their given disciplines.

"Their impact on the community is seen county-wide as they serve a great number of people and work tirelessly for a relatively small piece, 0.02 percent, of the state budget."

"Grants are typically announced in late August but due to the extended session and uncertainty about the budget, the council delayed action on grants until just recently," said Sen. Althoff.

"Supporting the arts is an integral component of supporting our community," said state Rep. Jack Franks, (D-Woodstock).

"These programs provide a wonderful place for McHenry County residents to express themselves artistically and many unique opportunities for our youth.

"I am very pleased that these worthy programs have received the funding they so desperately need to continue operating." For more than 35 years the Illinois Arts Council has been instrumental in supporting Illinois' highly acclaimed and diverse cultural community. The council recognizes and supports not-for-profit art organizations, community programs, schools, universities and individual creative artists through grant programs, technical assistance, workshops and special initiatives every year."

"I am extremely pleased that the Arts Council was successful in securing grant funding for so many deserving community organizations, State Rep. Michael Tryon, (R-Crystal Lake) said.

"I am confident that McHenry County's arts organizations will use the funding in a way that continues to inspire children and adults involved in the arts community."

Grant recipients include: Illinois Youth Dance Theatre Inc., Spring Grove; Town Square Players Inc., Woodstock; American Choral Directors Association, Crystal Lake; Illinois Council of Orchestras, Crystal Lake; Crystal Lake Community Choir, Crystal Lake; McHenry County Music Center, Crystal Lake; Northwest Area Arts Council, Crystal Lake; Northwest Community Music Academy, Crystal Lake; Raue Center for the Arts Inc., Crystal Lake.