Today, Congressman Cuellar announced that the City of Encinal received two grants of $10,000 from the National Endowment for the Arts.  The first grant was awarded to the Economic Development Council and the second was awarded to Hecho Encinal, a non-profit organization.

“The arts are an important part of the education and upbringing of our youth.  I am happy to see the federal government partnering with local organizations to further this interest in the City of Encinal ,” said Congressman Henry Cuellar.

The first grant, the Challenge America Fast-Track Review Grant, will be used to design and install new work by artist Deborah Mersky.  She will work with young local artists to produce laser-cut steel panels that will be installed on the front of the Ruth Carr building.  This building will become the community art center.

“We are really delighted that the community of Encinal will benefit from the project and we are thankful for the help provided by the National Endowment of the Arts,” said Donna Lednicky, Board Member of the Encinal Economic Development Council.

The second grant, the Media Arts Access to Artistic Excellence Grant, will support the Rural Filmmaker Exchange Program.  The program will allow young filmmakers from Encinal and the surrounding areas to interact with other filmmakers from Whitesburg, Ky.  Over the next year, these filmmakers will visit each location to attend workshops and public screenings designed to teach and encourage them to exchange ideas and opinions.

“As a father of two girls, I know how vital the arts are in a child’s life.  I will continue to work in Congress to bring funds to Texas’ 28th district and further programs for the youth of our communities,” said Congressman Cuellar

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.
####