Huntington Arts Groups Get County Grants

The Suffolk County Legislature has approved about $30,400 in funding for several Huntington area arts organizations.

The , , Huntington Choral Society, the Ridotto Arts Organization, Inc., and the Whaling Museum were named among 39 county organizations as cultural programs and activities that enhance the tourism industry.

According to a Suffolk County press release, grants were awarded to 39 town arts councils, drama and dance companies, museums and performing arts organizations which enhance the county tourism industry.

“From Huntington to the Hamptons, our museums, music venues, theater and dance companies and arts organizations attract visitors to our downtown's generating excitement, energy, economic activity and jobs," said County Executive Steve Bellone in a press release. "These grants are an investment in our community that reaps tangible returns."

The measure was approved April 24 at a general meeting based on funding recommendations from the Citizens Advisory Board for the Arts which emphasizes quality, as well as geographic and ethnic diversity.

According to Bellone, Fund 192 provides for $263,660 to be leveraged from a portion of the county hotel tax charged for overnight stays to fund organizations that contribute to the cultural vitality that attracts out-of-town visitors to the county, and in particular its downtown communities.  

Legis. William Spencer said Suffolk County is unique because it has a dedicated funding stream for such pursuits. 

"Even as we work to get a head of the county’s fiscal crisis, I am excited that the historical and cultural programs that residents rely on for entertainment, enrichment and education will continue to receive grant money in 2012,” said Spencer in a release.

Grant amounts:

• Heckscer Museum: $9,000
• Huntington Arts Council: $10,500
• Huntington Choral Society: $5,000
• Ridotto Arts, Inc.: $5,000