Cortland Arts Connect Hosting Lifetime Achievement Reception Tonight – Public Invited to Attend

This evening, Friday July 11th from 5pm to 7pm at the back patio of the McNeil Building at 17-29 Main Street in Downtown Cortland, Cortland Arts Connect will be hosting their annual Lifetime Achievement Reception. This year, Cortland Arts Connect is recognizing two individuals with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Visual Arts and Music, Jim Weiss for Visual Arts and Ann Finamore for Music. The public is welcome to attend the reception and join in the celebrating Weiss and Finamore.

Jim Weiss is a local photographer who will be the 14th recipient of the Visual Arts Award. According to Cortland Arts Connect, Weiss spearheaded the establishment of the Annual Regional Photography Exhibit that is held every October at the Cortland Free Library. He has served on the board of Cortland Arts Connect and the predecessor, Cultural Council of Cortland County. Weiss was also a teacher for 30 years at McGraw Schools teaching physics and is an accomplished musician.

Ann Finamore will become the 5th recipient of the Music Award. Cortland Arts Connect says Finamore has contributed to the artistic culture in Cortland County is a perfect example of the concept of the award presented. She has taught music for over 30 years at Cortland Schools, is active in St. Anthony’s Church, served as an NYSSMA accompanist for young performers, and more.

The Lifetime Achievement Award for Visual Arts was established in 2009 and the Award in Music being established in 2021.

“Each year, our organization appoints a committee of peers to select new recipients. As a component of the Visual Artist Award, Cortland Arts Connect purchases an artwork created by the recipient. The intent behind purchasing the award winner’s art is to build a permanent visual record of an important aspect of our artistic heritage.” Cortland Arts Connect says.

The celebration will include speeches, refreshments, and live music.