HJR161INTRODUCED
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HJR161
89LX2H2-1
By Representative Lawrence
RFD: Rules
First Read: 20-Mar-25
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5 89LX2H2-1 02/05/2025 bm (L)bm 2025-540
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First Read: 20-Mar-25
HJR___ CELEBRATING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BLACK BELT
TREASURES CULTURAL ARTS CENTER.
WHEREAS, the Alabama Legislature takes great pride in
recognizing organizations that significantly contribute to
the cultural, economic, and educational development of our
state; and
WHEREAS, the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts
Center, located in Camden, Alabama, is a shining example of
such an organization, proudly celebrating its 20th
Anniversary of enriching Alabama's Black Belt region; and
WHEREAS, established in February 2005, the Black Belt
Treasures Cultural Arts Center operates as a nonprofit
organization with a mission to invigorate the economy of
Alabama's Black Belt region through the sale and promotion
of fine arts and heritage crafts, as well as the provision
of arts education opportunities; and
WHEREAS, the center was born out of a collaborative
tourism initiative spearheaded by the Alabama-Tombigbee
Regional Commission, Ala-Tom Resource Conservation and
Development Council, and The University of Alabama Center
for Economic Development; and
WHEREAS, the center proudly represents more than 580
artists, including gifted authors, musicians, painters,
sculptors, potters, basket-weavers, quilters, and
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sculptors, potters, basket-weavers, quilters, and
woodworkers; these artists have collectively achieved over
$2.27 million in sales through the center, which annually
welcomes an average of 13,000 visitors to its gallery; and
WHEREAS, the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts
Center has garnered national acclaim through staff
presentations at professional conferences, features in
respected publications, and numerous awards, further
solidifying its status as a beacon of excellence in arts
promotion and education; and
WHEREAS, Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center
serves as the centerpiece of an arts economy revitalization
that involves artist development and arts education; it
encourages residents and visitors to experience the arts,
culture, and place; and
WHEREAS, the center's dedicated staff and volunteers
tirelessly engage with schools, civic organizations, and
community arts groups, offering artist demonstrations,
workshops, and presentations that inspire creativity and
foster a deep appreciation for the arts; and
WHEREAS, over the past two decades, the Black Belt
Treasures Cultural Arts Center has become the cornerstone of
an arts-driven economic revitalization, fostering artist
development and arts education while inviting residents and
visitors alike to explore and celebrate the unique culture,
history, and artistry of the Black Belt region; now
therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, BOTH
HOUSES THEREOF CONCURRING, That we do hereby commend and
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HOUSES THEREOF CONCURRING, That we do hereby commend and
celebrate the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center on
the occasion of its 20th Anniversary, recognizing its
invaluable contributions to the cultural and economic
vitality of Alabama's Black Belt region.
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