[Dixielandjazz] Support Your Local Cultural Alliance

[Stephen G Barbone]

For the USA activists on the List:

Support, or join your local Cultural Alliance.

Even in this time of budget cuts YOU can help make a difference in  
funding for the arts. Here in the Philadelphia area, I belong to and  
meet with two such groups. Philadelphia Cultural Alliance and Greater  
Brandywine Cultural Alliance.

As a result of their advocacy, arts funding in this area is not  
eliminated but subject to the same percentage cuts that other segments  
are. This is counter to those areas where arts programs are being cut  
out of municipal budgets entirety.

Yesterday, Philadelphia's Mayor Nutter stated to the Associated Press;  
"There is something about art and music and culture that enhances the  
quality of life in this city . . .it helps us cope and deal with the  
madness around us . . .

He also cited a Philadelphia Cultural Alliance study which reported  
that the arts and culture segment employs 40,000 people in the region  
and generates more than $1 billion in economic activity every year.

Some other cities, NYC for example, are also backing arts funding  
programs. Yet, others are dropping arts program funding entirely. So,  
I urge everyone who can, to get involved with your local Cultural  
Alliance. Make it a priority to get children engaged in the arts. Make  
it a priority to show the know nothing politicians that arts generate  
revenue, promote tourism and create jobs.

Cheers,
Steve Barbone
www.myspace.com/barbonestreetjazzband