It was my pleasure today to take part in the announcement of $2 million in state funding for the renovation of the Nazareth College Arts Center, an already great facility which will now be the new permanent home of the Rochester City Ballet.

Also on hand were some of this area's most generous supporters of the arts: Nancy and Rob Sands, Danny Wegman, John and Jayne Summers, M&T Bank, and Harter Secrest & Emery LLP -- who collectively announced additional gifts of more than $3 million for this important venture.

An expanded stage and improved seating will make the Center a fine setting for many other national and international dance companies, including Rochester's own Garth Fagan, and reaffirm the Center as one of our area's premier venues.

As chairman of the Assembly's standing committee on tourism and the arts, I know the importance of a vibrant and varied cultural community to our economy. In Rochester and Monroe County, we are fortunate to have some of the most renowned artistic institutions in the nation, as well as the commitment to support and preserve these precious resources for future generations.

I want to particularly thank the dean of our Assembly delegation, Assemblyman David Gantt, and my colleagues, Assemblywoman Susan John and Assemblyman David Koon -- as well as Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver -- for their work in making today's announcement possible.

Click the link below for more information on Nazareth College.

Nazareth College

About NYS Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle

Since 1990, Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle has represented the 132nd Assembly District, which includes portions of the city of Rochester and the Monroe County suburbs of Irondequoit and Brighton. During his tenure in the NYS Legislature, Joe has made economic development and expanding employment opportunities his top priority.