For Release: Monday, November 14, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

NIPUNDIKAN RECEIVES ARTS GRANT

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the local group Nipundikan, a Mascoutah-based non-profit organization that interprets Midwest Native American cultures, has received a $4,200 grant from the Illinois Humanities Council in support of its project Early History of the Illinois Indians.  Dan Hechenberger, Nipundikan's founder, will direct the project.  The Council coordinates federal, state and private funds for cultural and social programs. 

"Arts education is a good investment.  It helps prepare our children for academic success and enriches our communities," said Costello.  "I will continue to support these efforts."

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