[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 114 (Monday, July 27, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S8128]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ARTS IN CRISIS PROGRAM

  Mr. REID. Madam President, today I stand to recognize the outstanding 
efforts of the Kennedy Center in addressing the crisis facing our art 
organizations across this country. Under the leadership of their 
talented president, Michael Kaiser, the Kennedy Center has established 
a unique outreach program that will help cultural organizations 
throughout Nevada and our Nation weather the economic downturn.
  Every Member of this body knows of the economic hardship facing 
American families and businesses. The art community is not immune. In 
Nevada, the Las Vegas Art Museum recently closed its doors due to 
financial troubles when donations dried up. The museum had been 
operating since 1974 and was a staple for art enthusiasts in the 
region. Unless help is provided to our cultural organizations, I am 
afraid this scene will continue to be rehashed throughout the country.
  Considered the ``turnaround specialist'' in his industry, Mr. Kaiser 
knows a thing or two about struggling arts organizations. When the 
Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra was struggling after Hurricane 
Katrina, Mr. Kaiser helped keep their organization performing. When the 
Dance Theater of Harlem was struggling, Mr. Kaiser helped reopen its 
school. When the New York City Opera needed restructuring, Mr. Kaiser's 
recommendations helped the Opera thrive. These are just a few examples 
of high-profile success in Mr. Kaiser's career as an arts 
administrator.
  Now, Mr. Kaiser wants to use his talents to help struggling arts 
organizations across the country. The ``Arts in Crisis'' program offers 
free consultation from the Kennedy Center's experts about budgeting, 
fundraising, marketing, and other aspects vital to a struggling 
organization. Whether by phone, email, or in-person visits, the Kennedy 
Center's talented staff freely gives of their time and talents to help 
preserve America's cultural establishments. I am confident that this 
unique program will enable struggling arts organizations to emerge from 
the economic downturn stronger than ever.
  I urge every arts institution that is struggling during this 
difficult time to take advantage of Mr. Kaiser and this exceptional 
team of experts. I know that the arts in Nevada will benefit from the 
Kennedy Center's sound advice and I look forward to Mr. Kaiser's visit 
to my State.

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