Morris Leader

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners has declared October 2024 as "Arts and Humanities Month." The proclamation was presented during a work session meeting in Morristown by Commissioner Director Christine Myers to Tom Werder, Executive Director of Morris Arts. Werder was accompanied by representatives from various arts organizations, including Allison Larena, President & CEO of the Morris Performing Arts Center (MPAC), and Tom Loughman, Executive Director of the Morris Museum.

"Morris County is fortunate to have a wide range of arts organizations, historical sites, museums and cultural venues that enrich our community. The Commissioners proudly support the arts and humanities through various funding sources, including the county’s Historic Preservation Trust Fund," said Director Myers. "As we gear up for nation’s 250th anniversary, their role in sharing our county’s story is more important than ever!"

Morris County provides annual financial support to Morris Arts, with $18,000 allocated in the 2024 county budget. Local arts and cultural organizations have benefited from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Program since its inception in 2003. Notable recipients include Twin Oaks Mansion at the Morris Museum and MPAC’s Community Theatre, which have received over $500,000 for exterior restorations since 2021. Additional funding was approved this year for preservation work at Boonton's Darress Theatre and The Growing Stage in Netcong.

"The arts generate a $49.2 million industry in this area. We attract 45 percent of people who participate in cultural activities in Morris County from other counties, boosting the local economy," said Werder. "Thank you to the Commissioners for your continued support, and I also want to thank my colleagues from arts organizations across Morris County."

Morris Arts celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and continues to be recognized for promoting arts within the county. An opening reception for its latest exhibition will be held on November 7 at the atrium of the County's Administration and Records Building.