Mayor and Arts Commission honor Chico Theater Company, longtime instructors and patrons

Mayor Coolidge opened the Oct. 15 meeting by presenting the Mayor's Achievement in the Arts awards, recognizing the Chico Theatre Company, a longtime dance teacher Deborah and patrons David and Cherry Hopper for contributions to Chico's cultural life. The mayor praised the theatercompany's "visionary leadership" and noted the organizationhas been "the cornerstone of Chico's vibrant art scene for over two decades."

A representative of the theater thanked the city for long-term support, saying, "Thank you to the city for all the support over the years, the grants that have been given to this." Deborah, who was introduced by the mayor as a 40-year teacher and local arts leader, accepted recognition for her work with Chico Community Ballet and Chico Creek Dance Center. David and Cherry Hopper accepted an award as patrons and described their decades of local involvement.

The awards ceremony also highlighted related city arts efforts, including an arts grant program that provides awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to local organizations and artists. Mayor Coolidge and the Arts Commission encouraged artists to apply for programs such as the utility-box art program and other public-art opportunities; deadlines and program details are available on the city website.