Senator Lewis Holds Forum On Arts and Our Local Economy

A release from Senator Jason Lewis:

Dozens of local residents turned out for Senator Jason Lewis’ latest Community Conversation in Stoneham on the value of arts and the cultural sector to our local economies. Attendees engaged in an enlightening and engaging conversation.

Mass Cultural Council Executive Director Anita Walker spoke to the vitality and value that municipal cultural councils bring to our communities. Wakefield Town Administrator Steve Maio and Albion Cultural Exchange Committee Chairman Christopher Carino spoke on the evolution and goals of the exciting and innovative Albion Cultural Exchange project in Wakefield and its potential impact for the town economy. And Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC)'s Jennifer Erickson spoke to the broad and substantial value of communities incorporating arts and cultural investment into their economic planning.

As President John F. Kennedy said: "If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him." Senator Lewis thanks the Greater Boston Stage Company (formerly Stoneham Theatre) for hosting the forum, as well as thanking the excellent panelists and all who attended.

Photo courtesy Office of Senator Jason Lewis