"The arts contribute to state and local economic growth...creating jobs and attracting revenue," says Gov. Deal.

Gov. Nathan Deal recently announced the recipients of the second annual Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. Fifteen individuals and organizations have been recognized for their significant contributions to Georgia’s civic and cultural vitality through service to the humanities or excellence in the arts. The awards were presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and the Georgia Humanities Council.

“The arts contribute to state and local economic growth by providing a diversified and sustainable means for creating jobs and attracting revenue,” said Deal in his recent press release. “These individuals and organizations contribute significantly to Georgia’s excellent quality of life that we are able to provide our citizens, relocating or expanding businesses, and visitors.”

The recipients of the 2013 Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities are:

• Kay Beck, Atlanta

• Linda Crowe Chesnut, Athens

• Dr. John Ferling, Carrollton

• Melissa Fay Greene, Atlanta

• Tim Howard, Chatsworth

• Marianne Lambert, Atlanta

• Chuck Leavell, Dry Branch

• Frank Maloy, Tifton

• Merryll Penson, Athens

• Allan Vigil, Morrow

• The Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta

• Colquitt County Arts Center, Moultrie

• Fox Theatre Institute, Atlanta

• Moving in the Spirit, Atlanta

• United Shape Note Singers, Atlanta