Athens Groups To See State Help

At an Athens ceremony today, State Senator James L. Seward unveiled state awards for local Athens cultural and arts agencies and community organizations. The grants cover funding for important local projects, including community recreation and historic preservation.

"This is an opportunity to celebrate those aspects of our communities that enhance our quality of life for our young people, our elderly and our families," Senator Seward said. "The awards I am unveiling today will help two important local agencies continue to offer local programs, and one that keeps watch over an important local landmark and is dedicated to preserving a key local historical treasure."

The awards include $15,000 for the Athens Cultural Arts Center to improve its facility by making it handicapped accessible, winterizing the building and improving energy efficiency; $15,000 for the Athens Recreation Association to improve and upgrade the community pool which is used extensively and was the subject of public concern last year; $20,000 for the Hudson Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society for engineering costs associated with a plan to repair the lighthouse.

"The grants will provide improved facilities to improve the quality of life in the community and make a significant contribution to historic preservation," Seward said.

The funds have been appropriated as part of the 2004-2005 state budget.

-30-