Catamount Arts, WonderArts, and Circus Smirkus are among the many creative sector organizations in the NEK.

With support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Vermont Community Foundation, the advisory group will work with a consulting team on this six-month project. The resulting plan will focus on moving NEK's creative sector forward and raising community awareness of the power and potential of the creative economy.

Organizers intend for the NEK project to serve as a model that can be used to create individualized regional data and action steps for other areas of the state.

The Vermont Creative Network is a broad collective of organizations, businesses, and individuals working to advance Vermont's creative sector. The Network includes visual arts and crafts, performing arts, literary arts and publishing, film and media design, culture and heritage, and artisan foods. To keep up with the progress on the action plan, sign up to receive Notes From Outside the Box, the Network's monthly e-newsletter.

Read an interview with Jody Fried about the NEK project in the Caledonia Record.

	Interdisciplinary artist Madsen Minax received an FY2018 Creation Grant.

The last day to submit a Creation Grant application is Thursday, June 28. This funding for individual artists supports time, materials, and/or space rental during the development of a new creative work. Recent grants have been used to support a dance collaboration, the writing and production of a musical score, and the creation of a theatrical piece that documents the stories of female veterans.

Learn more about applying for a Creation Grant.

It's hard to imagine that John Killacky is stepping down from his role as executive director of the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts. The impact John made during his eight-year tenure at the Burlington-based arts center is significant. He increased funding, improved the facility, and expanded programming. But possibly John's most lasting contribution is how he embraced -  and fought for - access and inclusion. He talked about his career at the Flynn in a recent interview with VPR's Mitch Wertlieb.

All of Vermont is indebted to John for his steadfast dedication and passion. For eight years, he has worked to break down barriers and ensure that the arts are available to everyone - from 85-year-old tappers to toddlers. We look forward to his second act (in Vermont, that is).

A radio program that gives "intelligence for your life" recently warned listeners they're more likely to spend money when the sun's out. This summer, fight the urge with eight Vermont museums you can visit on the cheap. More than just a bargain, each one has something truly unique to offer. Find out where to experience the best in organs, birds, and puppets in this week's Featured Story, " Eight Vermont Museums: Each One-of-a-Kind."