February 9, 2006

Be part of New York State's first
VIRTUAL RALLY FOR THE ARTS

New York State legislators will soon be deciding the funding for New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) for next year. We need to convince legislators to designate just $2.50 per person, or $48 million, to the arts. Supporting the arts is an investment in New York's future, economy, and quality of life.

What is a Virtual Rally for the Arts?

You can be part of a rally for the arts without even leaving your home. All you have to do is go to the Alliance's Online Advocacy Center between February 27 and March 7 and send letters to your legislators asking them to support the arts.

What's Our Message?

Increase funding for NYSCA to $2.50 per resident, or a total of $48 million. NYSCA funding has been flat, at $37.4 million, for three years. $48 million would restore the agency to approximately FY2001 levels. When adjusted for inflation, the FY 2001 NYSCA amount of $47.4 would be $52.3 million today! Governor Pataki has proposed a $2.6 million increase bringing grant money to $40 million.

Who Should Participate?

Everyone who cares about the future of the arts and their impact throughout New York State. The virtual rally is an opportunity for Board members, audience members, volunteers and others to be part of the advocacy effort, even if they can't travel to Albany on Arts Day (March 7).

How Do I Do It?

1. Visit the Alliance's Online Advocacy Center between February 27 and March 7 to send your message. It will take about 5 minutes.
2. Forward this email alert to your friends and encourage them to join in.
3. Write your legislators along with Senator Majority Leader Bruno and Assembly Speaker Silver. Send them our message of increasing support to NYSCA to $2.50 per person ($48 million), and what that means to you.

The Alliance of New York State Arts Organizations has a long history as New York's primary service association for community based arts and cultural organizations. The Alliance provides leadership and vision, and delivers services, resources and tools that strengthen community cultural organizations. The Alliance monitors, informs and mobilizes the field on statewide and national issues affecting the arts and assists local arts agencies in building community support and developing effective grassroots public policy.

245 Love Lane, P.O. Box 96
Mattituck, NY 11952-0096
Phone (631) 298-1234 / Fax (631) 298-1101