Public Meeting to Discuss Plan for Cultural Affairs Department

For Immediate Release May 7, 2002

DES MOINES, Iowa—The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs is encouraging Iowans to participate in a series of public meetings that will be held across the state this spring and summer. These public meetings are the next step in helping to makeImagine Iowa 2010: A Cultural Vision, a reality as the department gathers input into their strategic planning process.

The first meeting will be held Friday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Western Historic Trails Center in Council Bluffs. Additional public meetings will be scheduled across the state through September. The department oversees two divisions—the State Historical Society of Iowa and the Iowa Arts Council.

"It is crucial that we hear what people have to say about the work that we do," said Anita Walker, Director of the department. "We are asking Iowans to let us know what their priorities are. We want to hear ideas about how we are doing and what we can do better. We want to make choices in spending our precious resources that reflect what the people of Iowa think are important."

Imagine Iowa is a 10-year plan to help Iowa grow and prosper by using the arts, history, sciences and humanities to invigorate communities, strengthen education, and create an environment where Iowans of all ages will choose to live and work.

The Western Historic Trails Center is located at 3434 Richard Downing Ave., in Council Bluffs.

Public comments regarding the strategic plan may be made at the meeting, by submitting them online or by writing to Patricia Ohlerking, Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs, State Historical Building, 600 E. Locust, Des Moines, IA 50319-0290.

For more information, contact Patricia Ohlerking at 515-281-8824.

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