SUGGESTED TALKING POINTS

• The arts are the second leading money-making industry for the city behind tourism - generating an impressive $1.4 billion to the district's economy each year;
• In FY 2003, the "Party Animals" project raised over $1.2 million to support District artists and arts organizations, and arts education;
• There was a council mandate that the commission raise additional funds to complement the city's appropriation and that the commission would not be penalized for its success;
• In FY 2004, the commission is recommended to receive $1.501 million from the city, which is a $196,000 reduction from the FY 2003;
• The D.C. ArtsCommission's city appropriation has remained relatively flat over the last eight years;
• 70 percent of the D.C. Arts commission's city appropriated budget is re-granted to artists and arts organizations;
• The commission is recommended to receive $522,500 from the national endowment for the arts in fy 2004;
• The arts foster cultural understanding and awareness; and
• The arts commission's programs and activities affect the quality of life for all residents and visitors.