It's been pouring down rain and I'm behind as usual, but incredibly motivated. It's easy to keep going because there is so much important work to be done. Top of the list is supporting the work of the Sacramento Metro Chamber Civic Amenities Committee.  Lead by Tim Youmans (Economic Planning Systems), Bill Blake (B Street Theater), and Warren Smith (Clean World Partners), the Committee was established to identify funding strategies to support civic amenities-- entertainment, the arts, sports, science, recreation, sustainable agritourism and cultural attractions.  

After more than a year's work, the Committee released a draft Strategic Plan in November. The document is being distributed to the business community, recreation providers and cultural institutions for feedback and input. The Arts Commission is helping the Committee get the word out to the 260+ arts and cultural institutions in the region in a series of workshops this winter.  

This impressive strategic plan smartly builds upon a strong foundation of civic amenities -- cultural institutions alone contributing $112 million to the local economy. It also wisely calls for collaboration among institutions and civic leaders to work together to "expand the range of cultural offerings by adding new amenities."  

Please read the plan, attend the workshops this winter if you have questions or ideas, and support this important work in the community.

Happy, happy holidays,

Shelly Willis
Interim Director  

Anthony Padilla's "Solar Plant Mural" to be unveiled

Grab your camera and capture the impact of arts education