[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 69 (Monday, May 23, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S5777]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE VERMONT ARTS COUNCIL

 Mr. JEFFORDS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 
40th anniversary of the establishment of the Vermont Arts Council and 
its dedicated support for the arts in Vermont.
  The Vermont Arts Council, the only nonprofit State arts agency in the 
country, was founded four decades ago ``on a simple and powerful 
premise: that the arts enrich lives and form a vital part of Vermont 
community life.''
  Throughout the years, the Vermont Arts Council has served as 
Vermont's foremost arts advocate. Its resources are dedicated to the 
professional development of local artists, and it is a primary source 
of information about the arts, their impact on Vermont and across the 
Nation.
  Vermont is rich in culture and creativity, and the Vermont Arts 
Council has played such a vital role in contributing to this 
environment where artists and arts organizations thrive. The arts and 
humanities are a powerful force in bringing us together and their 
presence is to be nurtured and integrated into our communities at every 
opportunity.
  The Vermont Arts Council became a reality 40 years ago thanks to 
those who understand the important role the arts play in education and 
in our daily lives. Pauline Billings, who served as one of the original 
trustees of the council, has worked tirelessly in support of the arts 
in Vermont. It is so fitting that she is being honored with the 
council's Lifetime Achievement Award for the Arts. I cannot think of a 
more deserving recipient, and I welcome this opportunity to acknowledge 
Polly for her invaluable contributions.
  It is with great pleasure that I recognize the Vermont Arts Council 
as it marks its 40th anniversary and pay tribute to the council's work 
in helping the arts remain a vibrant force in Vermont. Here is to 
another four decades of great achievement.

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