For Release: Tuesday, October 19, 2004
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

MASCOUTAH GROUP 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 $4,000 grant from the Illinois Humanities Council in support of its project, The Early Illiniwek.  Dan Hechenberger, Nipundikan's founder, will direct the project.  The Council coordinates federal, state and private funds for cultural and social programs. 

"This type of performance adds a great deal to the learning environment of the community by bringing history to life, making it more accessible to people of all ages," said Costello.  "I will continue to support these efforts."

###