Imagine Iowa: One Year Later
For Immediate Release June 20, 2002
DES MOINES, Iowa—One year ago, historians, musicians, artists and other cultural leaders from across Iowa came together to pool their thoughts into "Imagining Iowa" in the year 2010. They had a vision of a state where culture isn't a frill, but a fuel for a new creative economy, for attracting and retaining young people in Iowa and for retaining the state's quality educational system.
On Monday, June 24, these cultural leaders will come together again at the State Historical Building to report on goals achieved in the last year that were part of Imagine Iowa 2010: A Cultural Vision, a cultural "road map" for the state. They will also work to create new Imagine Iowa objectives for the future.
A few of the success stories will be highlighted during the day's luncheon:
Mark Chubb, a musician and producer/remixer based in Des Moines will speak about working and succeeding in the music business in Iowa. Chubb writes music for film and television and produces original music for recording artists.
Keith Whitlatch of Tipton is with the Cedar County Historical Society and will discuss the town's efforts to preserve a historic jail as well as other preservation projects going on in Cedar County.
Theresa Sumpter, executive director of the Sioux City Symphony will highlight several of the organization's projects such as efforts to preserve its rich history in partnership with the Sioux City Historical Museum.
John Hudson, with the Johnson County Cultural Alliance, will discuss the Alliance's efforts to promote cultural tourism.
"These success stories from across the state are really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to imagining Iowa in 2010," said Anita Walker, Director of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. "They are evidence that Imagine Iowa 2010 is more than a vision. It is quickly becoming a reality."
Also during the luncheon, the winners of the Iowa Arts Council William H. Jackson Scholarship will be recognized. The winners are: Leia Barrett of Laurens, Megan Fickel of Iowa City, Aaron Halfpap of Mason City, Julia Katcher of LeClaire, Eric Neeley of Creston, and Betsy Sanders of Waukee. Each student receives $1,300 and plans to attend a college or university in Iowa majoring in an arts discipline.
Entertainment during the luncheon will be provided by Marty Mincer, a ragtime pianist from Hamburg.
The public is invited to bring a brown bag lunch to the State Historical Building and participate in the luncheon at 11:30 a.m. and in the afternoon discussion groups, which begin at 1:30 p.m. All activities are free.
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