Statement Honoring the 45th Anniversary of the Humboldt Arts Council

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 45th anniversary of the Humboldt Arts Council in Humboldt County, California.

Since 1966, the members of the Humboldt Arts Council (HAC) have been dedicated to promoting Humboldt County's rich artistic heritage. Incorporated as a nonprofit corporation in 1971, HAC is the County's largest multidisciplinary arts organization. The HAC serves as a community leader to provide opportunities for artists of all ages, including the development of art education and partnerships, as well as ensuring accessibility of the arts through innovative and multicultural programs.

Beginning in 1996, the Humboldt Arts Council began a successful capital campaign for renovation of the Carnegie Library Building, a historic symbol of community pride and local culture, into a regional art museum and art center. On January 1, 2000, the community ushered in the new millennium by celebrating the grand opening of the Morris Graves Museum of Art. Embarking on its new ``Century of Service'' to the community, the Museum was enthusiastically welcomed and has since been the leading contemporary arts exhibition and performance facility in the area.

On the first Saturday of each month, thousands of visitors are welcomed to the Morris Graves Museum of Art and its seven galleries to celebrate local artists during Eureka's Arts Alive. This includes a Courtyard Sculpture Garden, classroom facilities, an Arts Resource Center, a Performance Rotunda, and more.

The Humboldt Arts Council will be celebrating its 45th year of advancing the arts in Humboldt County on April 6, 2011.

Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we honor the Humboldt Arts Council on the occasion of its 45th anniversary of continuing the rich legacy of the arts on California's North Coast.