Pledge for the Arts--info please

[gottaB]

I was looking up the candidates' positions on the arts, and found this story.

I've read a statement by Clark, and heard Dean address arts funding at a campaign rally. I'd like to know what the others have to say.

[gottaB]

1. really curious

A strong position on support for the arts could tip the balance for me.

[sandnsea]

2. Kerry's are BIG on arts

There is no doubt in my mind that they would revitalize arts in this country. I'll try to find something in writing for you. But I saw Teresa on C-Span and somebody asked her about arts and she said when a government doesn't sponsor arts it robs the people of its soul. And I saw John in Iowa talking about arts in the schools and how we must start giving our kids all of this again. Now this was farmers and the like, and they were applauding. His afterschool program is geared towards the arts to pick up what schools have had to drop. I don't think there's a better candidate on the arts either. That's what is fascinating to me about him and Teresa. They can be right at home with vets and farmers and then turn right around and blend the symphony into a conversation without missing a beat.

I got an email from someone who had met with Jim Rassmann, the guy who Kerry saved his life. He's a Republican, a vet, retired cop, who likes opera and growing orchids. That's the Kerry campaign!

[gottaB]

3. Much obliged if you could find something

I know about some of Kerry's relevant votes and have tried finding some statements in thomas, but nothing jumps out. I haven't tried vote-smart yet, I'll go do that.

[gottaB]

4. one quote

"We're going to bring art and music and dance and theater back to the schools of America and celebrate it."

From the CBS Early Show--unclear if it was taken from a stump speech or a comment in the studio.

I'd still like to see the pieces put together, a vision for the arts and arts education, with some specific policies or funding proposals.