The California Arts Council announced that 139 organizations received Artists in Schools 2012-13 grants to provide high quality arts education through in-school and after-school programs--a total of $1,076,666. "The California Arts Council's Artists in Schools program strives to improve K-12 education for thousands of our state's children--many who might not have access to arts education without Artists in Schools," said Arts Council Director Craig Watson. SEE PRESS RELEASE

Dozens of California museums (and thousands nationwide) are participating with the Smithsonian's "Free Museum Day" program and opening their doors at no cost on Saturday, September 29, 2012. A (free) ticket from the Smithsonian website is required. SEE INFORMATION AND TICKET DOWNLOAD * SEE PARTICIPATING CALIFORNIA INSTITUTIONS

Ah, the waft of cooler breezes, the shorter days, the turning leaves. Yes, folks, it's grant season. We want to remind you of the many terrific grant opportunities with autumn deadlines. First step? A look at our über-popular "Grants" web page where you can sort by deadline, discipline, applicant type or region, and then plot your march to the money.