Tallahassee, FL - First Lady Columba Bush and Secretary of State Glenda Hood today held a press conference to release the results of a year-long visioning project and continuing strategic plan, Culture Builds Florida's Future. The purpose of the cultural visioning project was to bring together leaders of the business, government, and arts community to discuss the development of a 10-year cultural plan for the state. Since she began her role as Florida's First Lady, Mrs. Bush has dedicated her time and energy to promoting a variety of issues including art appreciation and education among Florida's young people. "The arts and culture are an important part of strengthening Florida's economy," said Mrs. Bush. "Through art, we celebrate our history, our diversity and our humanity. Art allows us to share ourselves, to tell the world our hopes and fears, and channel our emotions."

Secretary Hood, Florida's Chief Cultural Officer, was appointed by Governor Bush to serve on his economic development team. The team was charged with developing the state strategic plan on economic development which in part highlighted the critical role that the arts and cultural programs play in the state's economic development. "The Arts serve as a catalyst for community and economic development, and foster opportunities to explore, expand, and transform the ways in which we understand and cultivate relationships," said Secretary Hood. "Public, private, and government investment in the arts advance our state's immediate and long-term economic goals."

Secretary Agwunobi, Department of Health; Commissioner Winn, Department of Education; Secretary Green, Department of Elder Affairs; and Secretary Cohen, Department of Community Affairs, participated in the press conference and spoke about the importance the Arts plays in their programs and the benefits it brings to their constituencies.

The Florida Department of State, Florida Arts Council, and Partners for Livable Communities embarked on a year-long visioning project. The Cultural Visioning Process was funded by Bank of America, a strong statewide business supporter of cultural activities. A series of forums held throughout the state were attended by architects, planners, realtors, artists, both small and large business representatives, politicians, healthcare professionals, non-profits, professors, arts council members, and other interested citizens. These groups met and recommended ways in which arts and cultural organizations can work effectively and partner with other agencies toward meeting four significant goals aimed at building Florida's future. These goals are strengthening the economy; learning and wellness; design and development; and leadership.

The Florida Arts Council and a task force comprised of constituency groups have established objectives within each of the four goal areas. Additional details for implementation are in process and will be the focus of discussions at future Florida Arts Council meetings. Increased partnerships with other groups, for example economic development groups, chambers of commerce, convention and visitor's bureaus, transportation agencies, healthcare providers, and the state's schools, will be the hallmark of the plan entitled "Culture Builds Florida's Future."