After hitting an all-time low in 2009, the vitality of the arts industry, as measured by the newest National Arts Index, is rebounding. While funding remains a concern, “half of the 83 indicators used to tabulate the Index score increased” in the latest reporting period.

Arts education in US public schools has taken a hit over the past decade, according to a Department of Education report released Monday: While 20 percent of primary and secondary schools offered drama or dance 10 years ago, only 3 or 4 percent do today.

The Plan-It Hennepin initiative exploring ways to reimagine Hennepin Avenue from the Walker to the riverfront has a twist: it aims to let arts and community groups lead the charge. The four-part Talk-It Hennepin lecture series should get the discussion going.

Philanthropist and former Star Tribune publisher John Cowles Jr. passed away Saturday at age 82. Known for bringing Tyrone Guthrie to Minneapolis, his generosity, with his wife Sage, helped create the Walker’s Cowles Conservatory.