A-STATE RECEIVES GRANTS FOR DYESS, KAYS HOUSE PROJECTS

Arkansas State University has received two grants totaling nearly a million dollars from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC) to be used for theatre reconstruction in Dyess, Ark., as part of the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home project and renovation of the historic V.C. Kays house on the A-State campus.

“Preserving our heritage is part of Arkansas State’s role for our region. These grants allow us to further our mission of enhancing our communities,” Chancellor Tim Hudson said. “On our campus, salvaging the Kays House was a project I became involved in when I arrived at A-State. Along with our system president, Dr. Chuck Welch, and listening to faculty leaders, we worked together to turn the planned demolition of the home into a lasting part of our legacy. In Dyess, Ark., the grant not only restores an important historic building, but it also economic impact through the future tourism associated with the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home site.”

The council awarded a grant of $200,000 for work on the Kays House and a separate grant of $750,000 to rebuild the notable Dyess Theatre for use as a visitor orientation/welcome center. These are competitive grants that are awarded annually to state agencies for the preservation and conservation of state-owned cultural and natural resources. The grants are made possible through proceeds from the Arkansas real estate transfer tax. For the complete article, click here.