Recent academic studies show arts education improves cognitive ability. Students exposed to the arts perform better on tests, including the SAT.

MAY GALA HONORS HEINZ POLL'S RETIREMENT FROM OHIO BALLET 

For 31 years, Heinz Poll, Ohio Ballet's founder and artistic director, delighted dance audiences with grace, beauty, athleticism and emotion. His cutting-edge talents and artistic vision enhanced the cultural life of Northeast Ohio, garnered accolades from dance critics around the globe and inspired the world of dance.

Poll, who will retire this spring, will receive the Irma Lazarus Award at the 1999 Governor's Awards for the Arts, presented by the Ohio Arts Council and Ohio Citizens for the Arts Foundation March 24.

Jeffrey Graham Hughes will succeed Poll when he retires April 30. Hughes was rehearsal director with the Hong Kong Ballet and a teacher and choreographer for the Academy of Performing Arts in Hong Kong. He was associate artistic director for Ballet de Monterrey in Mexico and ballet master for Alonzo King's Contemporary Ballet in San Francisco. Hughes' 22-year career as a dancer encompassed a wide range of styles and roles.

In honor of Poll's retirement, Ohio Ballet's board of trustees has planned a tribute on May 1. Hundreds of world-renowned choreographers, dancers, friends, admirers and Northeastern Ohio business, community and cultural leaders are expected at the spectacular celebration of Poll's career.

The event will be at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn hotel. Cost ranges from $150 to $2,000 per person. Proceeds will help fund Ohio Ballet's season. For more information call Ohio Ballet at 330/972-7900.