Now available from the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC), is the FY 2006 Economic Impact of the Arts summary card. Included is information on attendance, direct spending by arts organizations, and information on arts related jobs. The arts impact on the state topped $1 billion! Contact MSAC for a copy of the study. 410.767.6555 or msac@msac.org.

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MD Citizens for the Arts announced in January that Governor Martin O’Malley’s FY 2008 Budget Allowance for the (MSAC) is $15,397,000, an increase of $1,046,398 from FY 2007’s general fund appropriation by 7.2%. Preliminary estimates from the MSAC indicate this funding level may likely support 8.2% of the operating budgets for qualified arts organizations. Final arts funding budget decisions will be announced later this year.

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Artist and board member Jon Shaw was recently featured on the local cable channel with an interview that focused on his work, his working philosophy and some great travel tales. Look for Jon and other featured artists on QACTV throughout the year.

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Board member Sony Turner won Queenstown’s 300th anniversary poster contest. The poster will be distributed around the county and beyond. Congratulations!

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Get your Grant Funds Sooner with Direct Deposit! The Maryland State Arts Council is delighted to offer its grantees the opportunity to establish Direct Deposit accounts for receipt of Maryland State Arts Council grants payments. For information visit them on the web at www.msac.org.