The Central Sierra Arts Council has been awarded the Elaine Symons Baker Community Impact Award from the Sonora Area Foundation.

The $10,000 award is given to a community group selected by Foundation directors and is a reward for significant contributions to the quality of life in Tuolumne County. The award money can be used for any purpose.

Arts Council Director Julie Mushet said the board and staff will discuss the best option to leverage the funds to benefit the arts in this community.

The Community Impact Award is presented as a surprise. Previous winners include Interfaith Community Social Services and Sonora High School´s Golden Regiment Band.