Bill would change state arts council to a corporation

Lawmakers take their first look Friday at a bill changing the Alaska State Council on the Arts from an agency to a public corporation.
The council distributes funds to artists and art organizations around the state.
Executive Director Andrea Noble-Pelant said it would allow for more partnerships and funding opportunities.
“Our choice is we can stay the same and watch our organization dwindle, or be less effective,” Noble-Pelant said. “Or we can take a step to become m