Greetings!
I am thrilled to inform you that on June 9th, the third day of County budget hearings, not only was there NOT a motion made to zero us out (as it was for the past 3 years), but a motion was made and succeeded to keep us at the same funding level next year as this year. You can read Edward Ortiz's article in today's Sacramento Bee on our budget here.
Supervisor Phil Serna was our hero who made the motion. He noticed in one of the 600 email petitions that SMAC had been cut over. Thanks go out to Supervisors Yee and Nottoli for their "yes" vote as well, and to all the supervisors for believing in our work.
At the City Council, the City Manager's recommendations were accepted, which will result in a cut to our Cultural Arts Awards and a loss of one position. Final budget adoption at the City is expected on June 23rd.
I would like to personally warmly thank each of YOU who signed our petition, came to the hearings, and continue to show your support for SMAC and the arts community. We are strong and mighty with your support!
As a last reminder: Our dear friend Muriel Johnson is hosting a fundraiser for SMAC this Wed., June 22. You are invited to enjoy wine and hors d'oeurves, music, and a mini art auction. Proceeds will benefit our heroic nonprofit arts organizations. There are still tickets available! Find out more information here.
Warm regards, Rhyena Halpern, Executive Director Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission |