Thursday, June 07, 2007
Governor Culver Visits Fort Dodge For Third "Capitol For A Day" Tour
Celebration Marks 75th Anniversary of the Blanden Art Museum
(FORT DODGE) – Today, Governor Chet Culver continued his “Capitol for a Day” tour by taking the Capitol to Fort Dodge. The Governor was joined by Department of Cultural Affairs Director Cyndi Pederson.
“We are blessed with one of the most vibrant and creative arts communities in the nation, and that is why I am honored to be here at the Blanden Art Museum as it celebrates its 75th anniversary,” said Governor Culver. “I want to congratulate everyone here at the Blanden for reaching this milestone and thank you for your efforts to grow arts and culture in our state.”
The premise behind “Capitol for a Day” is for the Governor to travel to counties across the state to hold office hours and listen to Iowans’ thoughts, ideas and concerns. During the events, the Governor is available to meet with Iowans and hear their ideas for the future of our state. “It can be difficult for some Iowans, who do not have the time, resources or ability to travel to Des Moines and meet their state leaders,” said Governor Culver. “These Iowans are just as important to our state’s future as any other Iowan, and we must engage them so their voices are heard, and that’s why I decided it was time to take the state Capitol on the road.”
The Governor discussed the Iowa Cultural Trust, an innovative program that establishes a permanent trust fund to support cultural institutions throughout the state. He also highlighted the Iowa Great Places program which promotes and develops culturally-important communities across the state. Governor Culver said, “The Vision Iowa and CAT programs have invested nearly $250 million over the last six years into new cultural entertainment and recreational attractions around the state. These initiatives have revitalized communities large and small in every corner of Iowa.”
Last month the Governor signed legislation providing an additional $45 million into the Historic Tax Credit Program. These dollars will help preserve Iowa’s main streets and return the historic buildings that surround them to their original glory.
Governor Culver’s next “Capitol for a Day” is scheduled for June 20, 2007 in Burlington, Iowa.