This week's Art Talk Monday is a little late due to the Christmas holiday. The article is written by Jessica Slaughter, who wishes to extend the biggest "Thank you" to those of you who support us here at NCLAC. As 2012 comes to an end, the North Central Louisiana Arts Council is thankful for our successes and our supporters. We’ve endured severe cuts in state funding and transitioned from one Executive Director to another, while at the same time continuing with our arts programming that serves Lincoln, Bienville, Claiborne, Jackson and Union parishes. Here are some of this year’s highlights: served 1,000 children through arts education programming; brought the Artmobile to 1,664 visitors in Farmerville and Jonesboro; coordinated selling and performance opportunities for over 72 artists; brought the Louisiana Poet Laureate to Ruston High School; held 10 art exhibitions featuring regional artists; and partnered with 15 organizations, including schools, libraries, churches and civic groups. In addition, our year included presentations to regional schools, art classes for adults, and community-wide art events such as Peach Art Exhibit. It has been a big, full year, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our members, donors and volunteers.
A handful of these “art stars” were presented President’s Awards last week at NCLAC’s Annual Meeting. They are: Patron of the Year- John O’Neal; Arts Business of the Year- Sundown Tavern; Board Member of the Year- Catherine McVea; Corporate Sponsor of the Year- Marsala Beverage; and Artists of the Year- Paul Crook and Allie Bennett.
Invested businesses and organizations who have made financial contributions to NCLAC’s 2012 programs include: O’Neal Gas, KLS Physics Group, Marsala Beverage, Devine Wines and Spirits, Ponchatoulas, Gibsland Bank, Jackson Parish Library, Ruston Kiwanis Club, Beta Sigma Phi, Lewis and Company, and the Dixie Center for the Arts.
In addition, so many others have provided donations to our non-profit this year. Caring individual supporters include: Catherine McVea, Peter Jones, Susan Roach, Bruce Van Zandt, Bill and MaryAnn Willoughby, John and Nancy Wallace, Saul Zalesch, Henry McCoy, Tom and Cathi Boniol, Russell Woodard, John Emory, Julianne Cole, Bob Levy, Elizabeth English, John Emory, Jr., Tommy Folk, Josh Shirley, Charlotte Bailey, Theresa Christian, William and Lynne Gnemi, Chris and Kathy Stone, Travis and Kitty DeFreese, Josh and Leigh Anne Chambers, Bank of Ruston, Colleen Anderson, Craig and Laura Miller, Sheila Bordelon, Elaine Thompson, Patrick Miller, Carolyn Coleman, Rick Hohlt, Peggy Fallin, James E. Davison, Marianne Giorlando, Marla St. John, Noula Rodakis, John and Vergie Shealy, Drew and Patricia Jones, Gary and Tery Nix, Richard Lewis, Edwin and Dawn Pinkson, Jeff Hankins, Danny Bell, Jerry Berg, Christine Broussard, and Louise Green.
Our members and volunteers who continue to assist us are too numerous to list, and we hold a special place in our hearts for their continued support. Also, those persons, groups and businesses who make donations of goods and services for our fundraisers are vital as well. At NCLAC we very carefully use the donations we receive to provide arts opportunities in our region. We strive to fulfill our mission each day, and are appreciative of those who believe, as we do, that the arts are a necessary enhancement for all individuals.