(Frankfort, Ky.) - The Kentucky Arts Council is currently accepting nominations for the 2004 Governor’s Awards in the Arts in nine categories which will be presented by Governor Ernie Fletcher at a ceremony and celebration of the arts in the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort, in early 2005. The first and most prestigious of these awards is the Milner Award, which is given annually to a Kentuckian with outstanding philanthropic, artistic or other contributions in the arts. Other awards include the Artist Award, National Award, Business Award, Community Arts Award, Education Award, Folk Heritage Award, Government Award, and Media Award.

A candidate for the Governor’s Awards in the Arts must be a Kentucky organization or resident of Kentucky with the exception of the National Award. The National Award is bestowed upon a Kentucky native son or daughter that has achieved national or international acclaim in the arts. Any individuals, organizations or businesses from within or outside Kentucky may make nominations. Nominations are brought before the Governor’s Awards in the Arts Committee of the Arts Council Board for consideration. Recommendations are then forwarded to the Governor’s Office for final approval.

The final deadline for nominations is September 1, 2004. To access the guidelines, instructions and nomination forms, go to the Kentucky Arts Council Web site at www.artscouncil.ky.gov. Paper copies are available upon request at 1-888-833-2787 ext. 4800.

The Kentucky Arts Council is a state agency in the Commerce Cabinet. Working in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, the Arts Council invests in programs that develop vibrant communities, provide lifelong education in the arts and support arts participation. Every $1 in grant funds awarded by the Kentucky Arts Council helps grantees secure $20 in earned income and matching funds from individuals, philanthropic sources and other levels of government.

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