Representative Ferrante tests out traditional techniques while touring the Essex Shipbuilding Museum

Recognizing that Cape Ann’s unique cultural assets offered tremendous potential to revitalize and preserve historic cultural assets and foster economic growth, Ann-Margaret worked with House colleagues in one of her first acts as a legislator to draft the language for cultural districts: special areas within municipalities and focal points of pride and collaboration for the community.

In her second term, Ann-Margaret worked with Massachusetts Cultural Council executive director Anita Walker to implement cultural districts on Cape Ann, including the Rockport Cultural District, Essex River Cultural District, and Gloucester’s Harbortown Cultural District and Rocky Neck Cultural District.

As a result of the implementation of cultural districts, Ann-Margaret was able to help provide funds for the Gloucester Stage Company, Rocky Neck Cultural Center, Cape Ann Museum, and Rockport Music.

Posts related to CULTURE, ARTS, AND TOURISM:

• Massachusetts Cultural Council grants boost local cultural districts
• House of Representatives Passes $3.82 Billion Bill For COVID-19 Needs
• Mass Cultural Council Fall Grant Opportunities
• Support growing for permanent film tax credit
• New Grant Program Provides COVID-19 Relief for Cultural Organizations
• Commonwealth Announces Additional COVID-19 Recovery Efforts
• Assisting Our Restaurants
• Letter: Arts remain crucial in troubled times
• Revving Up
• $580K in budget earmarked for Cape Ann