A new daily service -- available to the public via blog posts, radio broadcasts and e-mail -- profiles a significant event in North Carolina on that date.

Raleigh, N.C. -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/05/2012 -- The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources unveiled a project Oct. 1 that focuses on "This Day in North Carolina History." Working in conjunction with the North Carolina News Network, brief essays will be broadcast every day, accompanied by a blog at http://www.ncdcr.gov/thisdaync.

"We're excited about this initiative, because it allows the Department of Cultural Resources to showcase the wonderful stories that make up North Carolina history," said Cultural Resources Assistant Secretary Jennifer Woodward. "This is a great way to illustrate the many offerings that are found within the Department."

From North Carolina leaders, to figures in the arts, to important dates, to historical happenings from the mountains to the coast, "This Day in North Carolina History" tells the state's story every day. Contributors include the Office of Archives and History, the Division of State Historic Sites, the State Library of North Carolina, the North Carolina Arts Council and the NCPedia project, all part of Cultural Resources.

To receive the postings daily by e-mail, register at the blog site.

About the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources:
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives.

Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit http://www.ncdcr.gov and http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

More than 100 events across the state during the three summer months bring together history and authentic North Carolina culture. Most of the 2nd Saturdays programs are free.

Raleigh, N.C. -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/05/2012 -- More than 30 state historic sites and museums will showcase authentic North Carolina culture and heritage on Saturday, July 14, in the second installment of the popular three-part summer program "2nd Saturdays."

The various themes for July include "The State Library's 200th Birthday" at the State Capitol in Raleigh, "African American Heritage Day" at the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum in Gibsonville, "Jubilee Music Festival" at Historic Stagville in Durham, "Fabric and Fiber Arts Festival" at Horne Creek Living Historical Farm in Pinnacle, "Pirates" at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras, "Barbershop Chorus and Ice Cream Social" at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial in Asheville, "Civil War Scenes" at Roanoke Island Festival Park's Art Gallery in Manteo and "Makin' Bowls" at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh.

"2nd Saturdays helps families have some good, old-fashioned fun whether they are visiting a site close to home or across the state," said Linda A. Carlisle, Secretary of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources. "As many as 45 percent of travelers in North Carolina include culture and heritage when they travel."

Sponsored by the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, the 2nd Saturdays series takes place at the 27 State Historic Sites, seven history museums and the N.C. Museum of Art on the second Saturday of the summer months. The more than 100 events across the state bring together history and authentic North Carolina culture; most programs are free. Each site will have its own stylized theme; and many sites will have artists, musicians and/or craftsmen.

A complete schedule of events is at www.ncculture.comwww.ncculture.com. For information call (919) 807-7389.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The State Library of North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources is awarding $1.4 million in federally funded grants for 71 local and statewide library projects to improve book collections, community outreach, and technological resources including digitized materials.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/12/2012 -- N.C. Department of Cultural Resources Secretary Linda A. Carlisle announced June 12 that the State Library Division of the Department of Cultural Resources is awarding $1.4 million in federally funded grants for 71 local and statewide library projects for community outreach, library book collections, technology improvements and digitization of materials.

"As North Carolinians turn to their libraries for help doing job searches, summertime reading, and programs for families, this federal investment will help libraries maintain their collections and provide the service and technology so important today," said Carlisle.

The grant funding is made possible by a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a federal grant-making agency.

North Carolina disseminates federal library funds through competitive grants to local libraries. The remaining funding from the IMLS is directed to statewide programs and resources that benefit all libraries, such as the popular online encyclopedia, NCpedia.

"Federal grants awarded by the State Library to public, academic, school and community college libraries are critical during this time when libraries across the state are pinched for dollars, facing shrinking budgets but increased demand," State Librarian Cal Shepard said at the announcement in Henderson.

The LSTA grants are awarded in response to specific needs of public, academic, school and community college libraries.

Examples of grants include:

- H. Leslie Perry Memorial Library in Henderson has been awarded a $20,000 collections grant. These funds will enable the library to purchase newer print resources, aligned with the Vance County school system's curriculum, for children in grades K-5 and to purchase materials that will be used in outreach programming for senior citizens.

- The New Hanover Public Library in Wilmington has been awarded $32,000 for a digitization project. The Cape Fearians Collection Digital Project will preserve and make accessible 3,000 images of residents of the Lower Cape Fear region throughout history. Images from the library's vast photo collection will be digitized and community members will be invited to bring in images for scanning and data collection.

- Pettigrew Regional Library, which serves Chowan, Perquimans, Tyrell, and Washington counties received a technology grant award of $14,523. The grant will improve access to the internet for the public by upgrading 22 public access computers, and will replace aged computer chairs. The new computers will also have the latest Windows operating system and Microsoft office products which will make them the same as that learned by many patrons who have been recently trained and will prepare them for work in the current marketplace.

- Bennett College in Greensboro received a $24,878 technology grant to enhance and expand the Thomas F. Holgate Library's technological resources to implement a wireless access point and 28 Windows 7 laptops for circulation and instructional use in the library. This project is designed to resolve current and evolving challenges related to limited wireless network access in the library facility, aging or obsolete laptops, and increasing constraints on the availability of workstations for information literacy instruction and self-directed research and study during peak usage times.

- Fontana Regional Library, which serves Swain, Macon, and Jackson counties, received a $20,000 collections grant to add 1,667 eBooks to the e-iNC Consortium collection. This increase in the collection will provide users with more choices, add copies of items with multiple holds, and reduce the long wait-times users currently experience. The addition will include children's books, which have been a specific request from the library's patrons.

The complete list of awards can be found online at http://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/lsta/AwardsList12-13.htmhttp://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/lsta/AwardsList12-13.htm.

Administered by the State Library, the Library Services and Technology Act state-based grant program funds projects across the state that enrich the lives of North Carolinians through enhanced and targeted programs and services in libraries, information for lifelong learning, and improving equal access to 21st-century library service.

LSTA is managed by IMLS, which is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development.

For more information about the State Library of North Carolina's LSTA program, contact Raye Oldham at (919) 807-7423. The State Library's LSTA Web site is at http://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/lsta/lsta.htmhttp://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/lsta/lsta.htm.

About the State Library of North Carolina
The State Library of North Carolina, which celebrates its 200th birthday in 2012, builds the capacity of all libraries across the state, develops and supports access to genealogy and other specialized collections, and provides resources for the blind and physically handicapped.

About the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit www.ncdcr.govwww.ncdcr.gov and www.ncculture.comwww.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Ecomnomic impact study issued June 11 shows the creative industry supports more than 43,600 full-time equivalent jobs in the state and boosts tax revenues.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/12/2012 -- The nonprofit arts and culture industry generates $1.2 billion in direct economic activity in North Carolina, supporting more than 43,600 full-time equivalent jobs and generating $119 million in revenue for local governments and the State of North Carolina, Cultural Resources Secretary Linda A. Carlisle has announced.

The new study, "Arts & Economic Prosperity IV: The Economic Impact of Nonprofit Arts and Culture Organizations and Their Audiences in North Carolina," is part of a national study conducted by Americans for the Arts (AFTA), the nation's leading nonprofit arts organization for advancing the arts in America.

This is the first time that the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources has participated in this study. The research was implemented statewide by the N.C. Arts Council. Additionally, 17 communities contracted with AFTA for local reports on their nonprofits creative industry.

The study included both nonprofit organizations and other community groups that play a substantial role in the cultural life of the community, such as government-owned or -operated cultural facilities, like State Historic Sites and museums within the Department of Cultural Resources.

"This study shows that an investment in the arts is an investment in a growth industry that supports jobs, generates government revenue, and is one of the cornerstones of tourism," Secretary Carlisle said in announcing the study's findings on June 11.

More than 47,500 creative for profit and nonprofit establishments contribute to $41.4 billion worth of products and services in North Carolina. Nonprofit organizations — representing 2 percent of the total creative industry — contribute 11 percent of the direct gross domestic product of the overall industry spending.

Other findings in the report include:

- Spending by arts and culture organizations and their audiences supports the full-time equivalent of 43,605 jobs.
- Audiences in 2010 spent more than $582.6 million in North Carolina, with each person spending an average of $23.37 in the community. This spending does not include the cost of admissions.
- Arts and culture are also important to the state's tourism industry. The study showed that 51.2 percent of all non-residents survey respondents reported that the primary reason for their trip was specifically to attend the arts/cultural event where they were surveyed.

- Additionally, 21.7 percent of non-residents — visitors to N.C — reported that they spent at least one night away from home.

- 46.2 percent of the residents responding to the survey reported that they would have traveled to a different community in order to attend a similar cultural experience and 52 percent of non-resident cultural attendees reported the same.

- The Piedmont Triad Economic Development Region had $274.7 million in direct economic activity, with 9,746 full-time equivalent jobs supported by nonprofit arts and cultural organizations, more than $150 million in audience spending and $28 million in revenue for local government and the State of North Carolina.

"We all understand and appreciate the intrinsic values of the arts," said Wayne Martin, executive director of the N.C. Arts Council. "This study shows that arts organizations are also businesses. They employ people locally, purchase goods and services from within the community, are members of the chamber of commerce and local convention and visitor bureau's and are key participants in marketing their cities and regions.

"Because arts organizations are strongly rooted in their community the jobs they provide are on the whole local and cannot be shipped overseas," Martin added.

Nationally, the Arts & Economic Prosperity IV study showed that the nonprofit arts industry produced $135.2 billion in economic activity in 2010. Spending by non profit arts and cultural organizations totaled $61.1 billion plus an additional $74.1 billion by their audiences — supporting 4.1 million full-time equivalent jobs and generating $22.3 billion in federal, state and local tax revenues.

The Arts & Economic Prosperity IV study was conducted by Americans for the Arts and supported by the Ruth Lilly Fund of Americans for the Arts. The full text of the national statistical reports is available at http://www.AmericansForTheArts.org/EconomicImpact.

Additional information on the North Carolina report will be available at http://www.NCArts.org/afta.

The North Carolina Arts Council (http://www.ncarts.org), a division of the N.C. Department of Cultura Resources, works to make North Carolina The Creative State where a robust arts industry produces a creative economy, vibrant communities, children prepared for the 21st century and lives filled with discovery and learning.

The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources (http://www.ncdcr.gov) serves as a champion for North Carolina's creative industry, which accounts for nearly 300,000 North Carolina jobs and contributes more than $41 billion in products and services to the state.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The 2012 events take place June 9, July 14 and Aug. 11 across North Carolina at nearly 40 state history museums, art museums and historic sites.

Raleigh, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/01/2012 -- The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources will again showcase the Tar Heel State's culture, heritage and arts with the third year of its popular 2nd Saturdays summer programs. The events this year will take place June 9, July 14 and Aug. 11 at nearly 40 state history museums, art museums and historic sites. Most events are free.

Each 2nd Saturdays program reflects the unique character of the host site, including archaeological history programs at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson in Winnabow (June) and at Town Creek Indian Mound in Mount Gilead (July); the "Herb, Garden and Craft Festival" at Duke Homestead in Durham (June), featuring a variety of herb and craft vendors, 19th-century games for children, and traditional herbal use displays; "Celebrate N.C. Sports" at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh (June); "2nd Saturdays: African American Heritage Day" at the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum near Gibsonville (July); the "Jubilee Music Festival" at Historic Stagville in Durham (June); programs on the War of 1812 at Historic Bath and at the House in the Horseshoe near Sanford (June), and at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City (July); "2nd Saturdays: Civil War Encampment" at Vance Birthplace in Weaverville (August) with the North State Rifles; "Ahoy Pirates!" at the N.C. Maritime Museum in Beaufort (August); and a barbershop chorus performance with an ice cream social at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial in Asheville (July).

Many of the sites will offer programs on the American Civil War, on genealogy, and on Southern heritage food, cooking and agriculture. Some have planned craft fairs featuring period-style clothing, artwork and home goods.

A complete list of 2nd Saturdays venues and events is available at http://www.ncdcr.gov/2ndSaturdays.aspxhttp://www.ncdcr.gov/2ndSaturdays.aspx.

In many rural counties the State Historic Site State Historic Site or history museum history museum managed by the Department of Cultural Resources is the main tourist destination. Previous events showed that 2nd Saturdays had higher visitation at sites and generated sales opportunities for artists and vendors.

Partners in the 2nd Saturdays series include "Our State" magazine. Media sponsors include "Carolina Parent," "Charlotte Parent" and "Piedmont Parent" magazines.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources has changed its web site functions and appearance, expanding the information it offers about events, cultural tourism and the state's rich heritage.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/16/2012 -- The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources has unveiled a new online look to better share the story of the state's arts, libraries, culture, and heritage.

The Department's longtime Web address, www.ncculture.comwww.ncculture.com, will now feature events, cultural tourism, and features about the state's rich culture.

The site www.ncdcr.govwww.ncdcr.gov will focus on news and information about Cultural Resources educational initiatives, programs, and services, while serving as a portal to the Department's agencies and organizations in the areas of Arts, History and Libraries.

"Each year, Cultural Resources serves more than 19 million people through its numerous educational programs, countless special events, resource-filled web sites, and interactive online collections," said Cultural Resources Secretary Linda Carlisle. "Splitting our existing Web site into NCDCR.gov and NCCulture.com will help us better target our audiences with needed information, as well as raise awareness of all Cultural Resources has to offer."

Officials with the Department point out that the revamped www.ncdcr.govwww.ncdcr.gov site offers better navigation, utilizes numerous social media functions like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, as well as visually captures the Department's numerous programs with scrolling visuals. Popular programs like "2nd Saturdays," the Queen Anne's Revenge Shipwreck Project, Civil War 150 Sesquicentennial, and NC Pedia can now be prominently found within the site. Articles and features in the newsroom will continue to report on North Carolina culture and its impact on the state's economy, citizens, and children.

The second site, www.ncculture.comwww.ncculture.com, is geared toward the touring public seeking Department-sponsored events and attractions across North Carolina.

"Tourism is a vital economic engine in North Carolina, and cultural tourism alone accounts for up to 40 percent of our state's leisure travel," said Carlisle, who noted the newly-designed site was revealed during National Tourism Week. "We are proud that our state historic sites and museums offer an affordable, culturally rich experience for residents and visitors alike."

The new wwww.ncculture.comww.ncculture.com features hundreds of events that can be found year-round at each of the Department's 27 state historic sites, 7 history museums, along with the USS North Carolina, Tryon Palace, Roanoke Island Festival Park, the NC Symphony, the NC Art Museum, SECCA, State Library, State Archives, and the NC Arts Council. Each venue has a featured sitelett that offers a general description, directions to the venue, testimonials, as well as numerous downloadable materials like brochures, walking maps, and newsletters.

"North Carolina's arts and culture attract tourists from around the state, nation, and world," added Carlisle. "Our new website helps further our commitment of providing valuable access to our state's cultural experiences."

About the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives.

Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy.

To learn more, visit wwww.ncdcr.govww.ncdcr.gov.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

A free public program -- including 1940 period music and displays of clothing and toys -- will explore the use of U.S. Census data for genealogists and researchers.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2012 -- On Monday, April 2, the State Library of North Carolina will highlight the first-ever release of pivotal 1940 census data with period music, a 1940 current event quiz, a toy and clothing display from the N.C. Museum of History, films and a presentation by Kelly Karres of the U.S. Census Bureau.

The free program, which begins at 11 a.m., will be held in the Genealogical Services Research Room in the Department of Cultural Resources building, 109 East Jones St., in downtown Raleigh.

"The 1940 Census release is the most significant record to be made available to genealogists since 2002 with the release of the 1930 Census," said State Librarian Caroline (Cal) Shepard. "This Census is an economic snapshot of the Great Depression and a fascinating look at the United States on the eve of World War II."

The program will be hosted by the Government and Heritage Library, part of the State Library within the Department of Cultural Resources. Karres is a Data Dissemination Specialist, in the Atlanta Regional Office of the U.S. Census Bureau. Her presentation will examine the availability and usability of Census data, which can help genealogists and researchers connect with family and local history. For more information go to the blog of the Government and Heritage Library, http://www.ghlblog.org.

The census conducted in 1940 marks the only time that the census was conducted during the four term presidency of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Data about individuals is not publicly available for 72 years after collection.

About the State Library of North Carolina
The State Library of North Carolina (http://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/index.html) builds the capacity of all libraries across the state, develops and supports access to genealogy and other specialized collections, and provides resources for the blind and physically handicapped.

About the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Visitors can see artifacts recovered from the "Queen Anne's Revenge" wreckage off the North Carolina coast and learn about procedures for maritime archaeological conservation.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/13/2012 -- A lot can happen in 300 years, and an open house at the Queen Anne's Revenge (QAR) Conservation Lab on Saturday, April 21, will demonstrate the process of taking artifacts from ocean floor to museum door.

From 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. visitors will learn about the science concerning QAR, Blackbeard's flagship that ran aground near Beaufort, N.C., in 1718. Items on display will include a 12-foot anchor and an 8-foot pirate cannon.

Cannons, anchors, ballast stones and other recovered artifacts housed at the lab will be presented in various stages of conservation.

Archaeologists, conservators and other scientists will explain their work through hands-on demonstrations. Visitors will be able to learn first-hand as they look down a microscope at some of the smallest artifacts, determine how much a ballast stone weighs, guess the weight of the largest artifact, see x-rays of objects encased in a cement-like shell during the early stages of conservation, and much more.

Since 1997 the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources' Underwater Archaeology Branch (UAB) has led research at the shipwreck site. The wreck was located in November 1996 by Intersal, Inc., with information provided to Operations Director Mike Daniel by company president Phil Masters.

For additional information call (252) 744-6721 or e-mail Wendy Welsh at wendy.welsh@ncdcr.pov. The QAR Lab is located at East Carolina University's West Research Campus, 1157 VOA Site C Road, Greenville, NC 27834.

The QAR shipwreck has given insight into the life of the notorious pirate Blackbeard. Investigation of his flagship offers many clues to maritime life in the early 1700s. The wreck has been the subject of news reports worldwide through print and broadcast media, and documentaries by the BBC, Discovery Channel, National Geographic, UNC-TV, and other outlets.

The QAR site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. The UAB staff plans full recovery of the site by 2013, and so far more than 280,000 artifacts have been recovered. The artifacts will remain as an intact collection under the control of Cultural Resources. The N.C. Maritime Museum in Beaufort is the repository for QAR artifacts.

The Underwater Archaeology Branch, under the Office of State Archaeology, is part of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources (http://www.ncculture.com). The department annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums (including three maritime museums), two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

This multiyear commitment, one of the largest grants ever awarded to the museum, will help support North Carolina teachers in the integration of art across the disciplines, through professional development programs and Web resources.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/22/2012 -- Governor Beverly Perdue, N.C. GSK Foundation Chairman Bob Ingram and Cultural Resources Secretary Linda Carlisle joined N.C. Museum of Art Director Lawrence J. Wheeler on Feb. 21 to announce a $2 million grant to the Museum, representing a multi-year commitment through 2016.

The funding will support a series of professional development programs and Web resources (http://www.artnc.org) to assist North Carolina teachers in the integration of art across the disciplines in grades K-12.

The project ("The Big Picture") provides professional development resources, workshops and distance-learning courses to help K–12 teachers of all disciplines learn art-based strategies for promoting student achievement and enhancing their motivation to learn. Other project components include: free triannual educator expos; an annual teaching fellowship award; student exhibitions at the Museum; and an enhanced version of the award-winning ArtNC Web site, which features integrated lesson plans, online professional development tools and opportunities for sharing best practices with peers.

The Big Picture programming is designed around teaching concepts — such as investigation, perception, communication and problem solving — that are critical aspects of instruction across grade levels, subject areas, content and skills; it also directly relates to NCMA works of art and their historical contexts.

"The N.C. GSK Foundation is delighted to provide funding for the Museum to apply across educational disciplines," said Marilyn Foote-Hudson, executive director of the N.C. GSK Foundation. "This new approach to learning will inspire North Carolina children to learn and thrive."

"Education has always been part of the fabric of who we are as a people in North Carolina, and it's the key to our future," said Gov. Bev Perdue. "Innovative programs like 'The Big Picture' are two-fold. They help sharpen teachers' professional skills and instill the creative and critical thinking skills that our children will need to be 21st-century leaders."

"Public-private partnerships are vital to our work at the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources," said Secretary Linda A. Carlisle. "This generous gift from the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation is a strategic investment in our state's cultural infrastructure."

For the last decade, the North Carolina Museum of Art has designed programs for select schools that integrate the visual arts across the curriculum for grades K–12. Outside evaluations document that these programs give students the critical and competitive advantage of being actively engaged in their own learning. They become deeper thinkers, demonstrate greater confidence and express a strong sense of accomplishment in the classroom. This new funding will allow the Museum to amplify programming and extend these same benefits to more than 150,000 teachers and students statewide.

"Our educational programming is nationally recognized for its innovation and positive impact in the communities we serve. Art integration inspires teachers who in turn inspire creative thinking in their students," said Lawrence J. Wheeler, NCMA director. "We are deeply grateful to the Foundation for their commitment to this powerful vision for a more creatively inspired future for the children of our state."

The grant represents a significant leadership gift to the NCMA Foundation's $50 million Our Transformation campaign to support programs, endowment, and operations. It is one of the largest gifts given to the campaign to date.

About the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation
The North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation supports activities that help meet the educational and health needs of today's society and future generations. The Foundation wards traditional and Ribbon of Hope grants to organizations with programs focused in North Carolina, which promote the advancement of education, science, and health.

About the North Carolina Museum of Art
The North Carolina Museum of Art's permanent collection spans more than 5,000 years, from ancient Egypt to the present, making the institution one of the premier art museums in the Southeast. The Museum's collection provides educational, intellectual, recreational, and cultural experiences for the citizens of North Carolina and beyond. The 164-acre Museum Park showcases the connection between art and nature through monumental works of environmental art. The Museum offers changing national touring exhibitions, classes, lectures, family activities, films, and concerts. Admission is free to the Museum and Museum Park; fees are charged for special exhibitions and some programming. For information call (919)839-NCMA or go to http://www.ncartmuseum.org.

The North Carolina Museum of Art, Lawrence J. Wheeler, director, is located at 2110 Blue Ridge Road in Raleigh. It is the art museum of the State of North Carolina, Beverly Eaves Perdue, governor, and an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources, Linda A. Carlisle, secretary.

About the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The N.C. Arts Council nominated the 93-year-old artist, whose soaring sculptures have become iconic examples of vernacular art around the world. He is also a 2011 recipient of the North Carolina Award, the state's highest civilian honor.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/20/2012 -- North Carolina artist Vollis Simpson of Lucama is the recipient of Southern Living's "Heroes of the New South Award" and will be featured in the March issue of the magazine.

Simpson, 93, whose soaring sculptures have become iconic examples of vernacular art around the world, won in the "Arts & Culture" category, which honors the creators and curators of the South's imaginative spirit.

Simpson was nominated by the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources, last fall after receiving the North Carolina Award for Fine Arts for his ingenuity and awe-inspiring creativity. He is one of the state's best known and most respected artists, recognized for colorful, wind-powered kinetic "whirligigs." His sculptures are part of the permanent collections at numerous U.S. museums and other international sites.

"I don't know if I'm an artist," Simpson told Southern Living. "I just know I wake up every day and have to do something with my hands."

The issue honoring Simpson will be on newsstands Friday, Feb. 24. Photographer Robbie Caponetto and reporter Erin Shaw Street traveled to Lucama from Birmingham, Ala., in December to interview Simpson and to tour the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park. The park will feature 29 large-scale whirligigs currently being repaired, conserved, and relocated in downtown Wilson.

The park, a project of the City of Wilson, will honor the legacy of his work by conserving the one-of-a-kind collection and creating a more public presence for the dramatic works for the benefit of residents and visitors.

"As a folk art pioneer, he's transformed the ordinary machines of Southern life into extraordinary works of art, recognized by the New York Times, and documented by PBS," the article stated.

"The complexity and precise engineering of Vollis' large scale works are remarkable, and just so much fun," said Mary B. Regan, executive director of the North Carolina Arts Council. "For someone who doesn't see himself as an artist, Vollis has made a tremendous impact on the art world."

Winners were chosen by Southern Living and a panel of jurors. William Ferris, Senior Associate Director of the Center for the Study of the American South at UNC-Chapel Hill, was one of four judges.

Southern Living awarded Honorable Mentions as "Heroes of the New South" to Ben Owen III, a sixth-generation potter from the Seagrove area, and Jeff Polish, who created The Monti, an oral narrative project from the Chapel Hill area.

Read the full story about Simpson at http://www.southernliving.com/travel/1203-heroes-simpson-00417000077375/.

Simpson was among the 2011 recipients of the North Carolina Award, the highest civilian honor given to a North Carolina resident or native. UNC-TV has aired the profile of Simpson produced for the North Carolina Awards ceremony on the program "North Carolina People"; view the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4IUWqjPNUU&list=PLED93691A8DB43F0C&index=14&feature=plpp_video. For more information on the award presentation to Simpson, go to http://www.ncdcr.gov/ncaward.asp; to view photos from the ceremony, go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/ncculture/sets/72157628141096648/.

About the North Carolina Arts Council
The North Carolina Arts Council works to make North Carolina The Creative State where a robust arts industry produces a creative economy, vibrant communities, children prepared for the 21st century and lives filled with discovery and learning. The Arts Council accomplishes this in partnership with artists and arts organizations, other organizations that use the arts to make their communities stronger and North Carolinians — young and old — who enjoy and participate in the arts. For more information, visit http://www.ncarts.org.

About the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Arts Council is a division of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, which annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council and the State Archives.

The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources serves as a champion for North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources is accepting public nominations until April 15 for 2012 nominees for the state's highest civilian honor in the fields of public service, science, the arts and literature.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/17/2012 -- Nominations are now being accepted for the 2012 North Carolina Award, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the state. Created by the General Assembly in 1961, and administered by the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, the award recognizes significant contributions of individuals in the fields of fine arts, literature, public service, and science.

Award nominations may be submitted by anyone and must include a completed nomination form and cover letter, as well as the nominee's biography or resume. Letters of support and examples of the nominee's work will also be accepted. All materials should be sent to the North Carolina Awards Committee, N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, 4601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-4601.

Nominations will be accepted by the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources until April 15 for the 2012 awards.

The North Carolina Awards Committee will review the nominations and make its selections this summer. The recipients will be honored during ceremonies in Raleigh in the fall.

Past award recipients have included some of the country's most distinguished artists, poets, writers, performers, journalists, scientists and public servants including Charlie Rose, Dean Smith, Andy Griffith, Gertrude Elion, Romare Bearden and Oliver Smithies.

Award recipients in 2011 were Branford Marsalis, Durham, and Vollis Simpson, Lucama, both for Fine Arts; Charles Hamner, Chapel Hill, and H. Martin Lancaster, Raleigh, both for Public Service; Trudy F.C. Mackay, Raleigh, for Science; and Ron Rash, Cullowhee, for Literature. (Video footage and images from the 2011 ceremony are available at http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLED93691A8DB43F0C&feature=plcp and http://www.flickr.com/photos/ncculture/sets/72157628141096648/).

The nomination form and guidelines are online, or contact Jennifer Fontes at (919) 807-7256 or by e-mail at jennifer.fontes@ncdcr.gov to receive forms by mail.

The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources is the state agency with the mission to enrich lives and communities, and the vision to harness the state's cultural resources to build North Carolina's social, cultural and economic future. It annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Two major historical literary resources will be added over the next three years to the free online encyclopedia, which features articles and resources about North Carolina culture and history.

Raleigh, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/16/2012 -- North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources Secretary Linda A. Carlisle has unveiled a partnership between the State Library of North Carolina and UNC Press to make the six volumes of the "Dictionary of North Carolina Biography" and the "Encyclopedia of North Carolina" available as part of the Web site NCPedia.org.

The free online encyclopedia (http://ncpedia.org/) features articles and resources about North Carolina culture and history.

Joining Carlisle for the announcement Feb. 9 were new State Librarian Caroline (Cal) Shepard, UNC Press Editorial Director Mark Simpson-Vos, and "Encyclopedia of North Carolina" Associate Editor Jay Mazzocchi, also a member of the UNC Press staff.

"The goal of NCPedia has always been to make cultural information available for a wide range of users – teachers, students, business and civic organizations, cultural groups, and decision makers," said Carlisle. "The Department of Cultural Resources is committed to digitization, and this exciting partnership with UNC Press is a great leap forward as we continue to record and interpret North Carolina's rich history and culture."

"The Encyclopedia of North Carolina" and the multi-volume "Dictionary of North Carolina Biography" were edited by William S. Powell, professor emeritus of history at UNC-Chapel Hill, and published by UNC Press. Founded in 1922, UNC Press is the oldest university press in the South and one of the oldest in the United States.

"This is a moment William Powell, all of us at UNC Press and our many friends around the state have dreamed about for years," said Simpson-Vos. "The 'Encyclopedia of North Carolina' and the 'Dictionary of North Carolina Biography' are veritable treasure troves of information about our state, and UNC Press is delighted to be partnering with the State Library of North Carolina to bring these articles to the public as part of NCPedia."

The State Library (http://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/index.html) has already received the files digitally and has begun the process of integrating content and making it available online. The project is expected to take three years. This NCpedia expansion is funded through a Library Services and Technology Act grant through the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

About the State Library of North Carolina
The State Library of North Carolina builds the capacity of all libraries across the state, develops and supports access to genealogy and other specialized collections, and provides resources for the blind and physically handicapped.

About the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. To learn more, visit http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Raleigh, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/08/2012 -- The last few months have seen a surge in attendance at a number of North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources attractions, including record-breaking numbers at the N.C. Museum of History's 2012 African American Cultural Celebration, the Department has announced. The news showcases a continuing upward trend in attendance at North Carolina historic sites and museums.

From 2010 to 2011, overall visitation at Cultural Resources locations was up 18 percent. In total, 4.4 million people attended Cultural Resources programs, exhibits and sites in 2011.

The African American Cultural Celebration, held each year at the N.C. Museum of History in downtown Raleigh, saw a record-breaking 10,256 visitors at this year's event on Jan. 28 -- an increase of 36 percent over the previous year's event. The celebration, presented in partnership with the N.C. African American Heritage Commission, featured more than 75 presenters — well-known musicians, award-winning authors, storytellers, dancers, playwrights, re-enactors and others — who highlighted the contributions of African Americans to North Carolina.

Elsewhere, the USS North Carolina Battleship in Wilmington posted its best December in 18 years, with almost 6,800 paid visitors to the ship, an increase of 45 percent. Battleship staff reported that January 2012 visitation at the Battleship was up 28 percent over the previous year as well.

More than 150,000 people from all 100 North Carolina counties, all 50 states and 42 countries saw the "Rembrandt in America" exhibition at the N.C. Museum of Art during its three-month stay, which ended Jan. 22.

"Historic Sites and museums are a boon to the local economy in both urban and rural areas, as they attract those cultural and heritage travelers, who stay longer and spend more money," said Cultural Resources Secretary Linda Carlisle. "Families are looking for value, quality entertainment, and learning opportunities, and we make those experiences available all across the state."

Last month Carlisle was sworn in as a member of the United States Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. She and her fellow board members serve as advisers to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on matters relating to the travel and tourism industry in the United States.

Out of 27 State Historic Sites and nine museums within the Department of Cultural Resources, 21 reported increases in attendance in 2011. The biggest percentage increase was at Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum in Sedalia, which posted a 65-percent increase in visitation in 2011. Fort Fisher in Kure Beach reported the highest attendance at 601,336, down slightly from 618,373 the year before.

Several other historic sites that reported higher attendance in 2011 were able to offer new amenities to travelers. At Governor Charles B. Aycock Birthplace in Fremont, the reopening of the restored Aycock home, construction of a new picnic shelter and expanded programming, particularly with interpreters, led to a 26-percent increase in visitation. The Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum (CHB) benefitted from the completion of construction and the opening of Kimball Hall. Additional construction at the CSS Neuse State Historic Site in Kinston also benefitted from construction and from interest in the Civil War 150th commemoration activities, which led to a 35-percent increase in visitation. Horne Creek Living Historical Farm in Pinnacle opened a new visitor center and expanded the farm heritage program in cooperation with the agricultural extension service; combined with expanded events, Horne Creek saw a 51-percent increase in visitation.

Programming also contributed to the uptick in visitation at many locations. The President James K. Polk memorial has benefitted from the return of Mecklenburg County school groups, creative 2nd Saturdays programs, and a summer camp and enriched events; it saw a 17-percent increase in visitation. In 2011, visitors from all 50 states and from 28 countries came to the N.C. Maritime Museum in Beaufort; the Blackbeard exhibit, and ongoing activity at the Blackbeard's Queen Anne's Revenge shipwreck site, continues to draw worldwide attention. Admission at the Maritime Museum, as well as the majority of North Carolina's historic sites and museums, is free to the public.

About North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Cultural Resources annually serves more than 19 million people through its 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, the nation's first state-supported Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the N.C. Arts Council, and the State Archives. Cultural Resources champions North Carolina's creative industry, which employs nearly 300,000 North Carolinians and contributes more than $41 billion to the state's economy. For more information on Cultural Resources and its programs, visit http://www.ncculture.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm