The appropriation for NYSCA is reaching a conclusion. The amount on the table is reportedly a 33% decrease, leaving NYSCA with only $28 million for grants funding.

NO OTHER STATE AGENCY HAS BEEN CUT THIS SEVERELY IN THIS BUDGET.

Asking the arts to bear a disproportionate share of the decrease is a clear indication that they don’t care whether we survive or not.  It will result in layoffs, groups will eventually close, and the long term crippling effects are enormous.

Before this is finalized next week, please help save the arts in our community by making two phone calls (or faxes) to the following:

Senator John Sampson

(Senate Conference Leader):

(tel) 518-455-2788/(fax) 518-426-6806

Speaker Sheldon Silver:

(tel) 518-455-3792/(fax) 518-455-5459