"Adams may be one of the last communities to jump on the creative economy bandwagon, but better late than never. I think we're a mouse that can roar.”
- Bill Kolis, Owner of The Old Firehouse Cafe
Members of the Berkshires creative community gathered on the evening of Saturday, April 13th to voice their united support of the arts in the face of significant cuts to the Massachusetts Cultural Council Budget. Meeting hosts, Bill Kolis and Phil and Gail Sellers (of River Hill Pottery), moderated the discussion between 50 local arts and cultural advocates and State Rep. Gailanne Cariddi. No stranger to the arts, Rep. Cariddi was already among the 100 state representatives who signed on to Rep. Atkins’ amendment to increase the MCC budget by $4.5 million.
Bill and the meeting attendees stressed the need for the greater community to embrace the arts as an economic savior for the area: "Adams may be one of the last communities to jump on the creative economy bandwagon, but better late than never. I think we're a mouse that can roar.” Indeed, Adams and the rest of the Berkshires have a valuable opportunity in sight. After this meeting, advocates have proven their dedication, becoming champions for the cause. Now begins the process of establishing partnerships and wise investing to explore their full creative potential.
Read more at the North Adams Transcript and iBerkshires.com:
http://www.iberkshires.com/story/43764/Arts-Venues-Seek-to-Connect-Adams-North-Adams.html
