Senator Lea Webb Honors Center for the Arts of Homer with the New York State Senate Empire Award

Homer, NY – Senator Lea Webb has presented the New York State Senate's Empire Award to the Center for the Arts of Homer, the highest honor bestowed by the State Senate on businesses and organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities.

The Homer Center for the Arts is a vibrant hub for artists, art enthusiasts, musicians, and creators. Renowned for hosting national music concerts, the Center also features film screenings, a community theater program (Center Stages), and an art gallery showcasing works by regional, national, and international visual artists. Throughout the year, the Center hosts a variety of classes, workshops, and programs, significantly contributing to the economic vitality of Central New York.

“As an advocate for the arts, I am delighted to present the Center for the Arts of Homer with the New York State Senate Empire Award,” said State Senator Lea Webb. “This recognition highlights the Center's exceptional commitment to fostering creativity and supporting the arts in our community. Your ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and inspiring space for artists and audiences alike have truly made Homer a beacon of cultural vibrancy.” 

“The Center for the Arts of Homer is incredibly grateful to accept this prestigious award from Senator Lea Webb,” said Ty Marshal, Executive Director of the Center for the Arts of Homer. “We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Senator Webb and the NYS Senate for recognizing our commitment to serving the local community, and the greater Central New York community. On behalf of our board of directors, staff and volunteers, this award serves as a significant motivator, and an inspiration to continue serving artists, patrons, supporters, and community members with all the Arts has to offer.” 

HISTORY:

The Center’s roots trace back 200 years when an early group of Baptists began planning what would eventually become the building. By 2001, the First Baptist Church of Homer had outgrown its space and planned to vacate the building. Concerned about its future, a dedicated group of founders—comprising neighbors and community members—met with church leaders to devise a plan to preserve the historic building and repurpose it for community use.

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