Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I-Sag Harbor) today announced that ten local art and culture organizations have been awarded $467,000 in state funding through the New York State Council on the Arts, enabling these groups to operate more sustainably and enhance performance and art spaces throughout the Assemblyman’s district.

“Art and culture are at the heart of our regional heritage and is a true engine of economic activity,” said Assemblyman Thiele. “Thanks to critical funding from the New York State Council on the Arts, the regional talent that draws thousands of visitors to our towns and villages each year will have the optimal financial support that will allow it to flourish. I look forward to seeing its resounding impact on stage in the near future and want to offer my sincere congratulations to the grantees.” 

The ten awardees include:

• Bay Street Theatre Festival, Inc.: $69,500
• Friends of the Cultural Center, Inc.: $20,000
• Guild Hall of East Hampton, Inc.: $40,000
• Hamptons International Film Festival: $49,500
• Montauk Chamber Music Society: $35,000
• Parrish Art Museum: $59,500
• Research Foundation for SUNY Stony Brook: $25,000
• Sag Harbor Cinema Arts Center, Inc.: $49,500
• Southampton Arts Center: $49,500
• Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, Inc.: $69,500