MCA
Minnesota Citizens for the Arts
2233 University Ave. W. #355
St. Paul, MN 55155
651-251-0868 fax 651-917-3561
staff at mncitizensforthearts.org
www.mncitizensforthearts.org
Arts Action Center

November 16, 2007

1. Give the Gift of Arts Advocacy

2. MCA Still Seeking Volunteers

3. Winners of our Scavenger Hunt

4. Reminders from MCA

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1. Give the Gift of Arts Advocacy

The time of turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie is upon us and gift giving season will soon be here! Make things easy on yourself by giving the gift of Arts Advocacy. We’ll make it easy for you:

Give an MCA membership on MCA’s secure website at:

http://mncitizensforthearts.org/join/membership/individual-memberships/

Give cool Arts Advocate gifts from MCA’s store at:
www.cafepress.com/mnforthearts

Happy Turkey Day!

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2. MCA Still Seeking Volunteers

Much progress has been made but we are still looking for some volunteers to help with a huge mailing. Can you help? Please join us at the MCA office, 2233 University Ave. W. #355, St. Paul, MN:

DAYTIME: Monday and Tuesday, November 19 and 20, 9am-5pm

Please let Mark Albers know you’re coming at staff@mncitizensforthearts.org or 651-251-0868 so we can be sure we are ready to greet you.

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3. Winners of our Scavenger Hunt

Congratulations to the winners of the Scavenger Hunt on MCA’s new website. Each has won a grand-spanking new MCA t-shirt:

Elliot Lynch, Minneapolis
Julie Vander Woude, St. Louis Park
Janene Winters, Ocheyedan, Iowa (!)

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4. Reminders from MCA

Minnesota’s Arts Advocacy Day
February 14, 2008 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Minnesota History Center and Minnesota State Capitol
More information here: http://newspaceship.com/events/advocacyday/

Explore Minnesota Cultural Tourism Conference
January 22-24, 2008 (Cultural Tourism Day is January 23)
Alltel Civic Center, Mankato
More information here: http://industry.exploreminnesota.com/2008_Minnesota_Conference_on_Tourism.html

National Arts Advocacy Day
March 31-April 1, 2008
Washington, D.C.
More information here: http://www.artsusa.org/events/2008/aad/default.asp

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Join MCA’s MySpace Page: www.myspace.com/mncitizensforthearts.

View MCA Advocates on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Mncitizensforthearts

Take Action: www.mncitizensforthearts.org.
Your frequently updated, one-stop site for: information about Minnesota Citizens for the Arts and how you can get involved, an Action Center called the Arts Action Center where you can write a letter to your legislator, or even find out who your legislators are, facts about the arts in Minnesota, the latest on legislative and congressional action on arts issues and more!

Things You Need To Know:
MCA values your privacy, and will not sell or distribute your personal information to anyone. MCA is a nonpartisan statewide arts advocacy organization whose mission is to ensure opportunity for all people to have access to and involvement in the arts. MCA organizes the arts community and lobbies the Minnesota State Legislature and Congress on issues pertaining to the nonprofit arts. If you are interested in learning more about how to advocate for the arts, or how to activate people in your arts organization or community to lobby for the arts, please call us at 651-251-0868 or e-mail staff at mncitizensforthearts.org. State arts funding supports access to the arts for all Minnesotans. The state-funded Minnesota State Arts Board and eleven Regional Arts Councils provide grants and services in every Minnesota county for artists, arts organizations, arts projects and school artist residencies. For more information on regional or state grants, go to www.arts.state.mn.us/racs/index.htm.

November 7, 2007

1. MCA Seeking Volunteers

2. You Can Comment on Minnesota’s Arts Education Standards Until Nov. 20

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1. MCA Seeking Volunteers

Minnesota Citizens for the Arts is looking for some volunteers to help with a huge mailing. Can you help? Please join us at the MCA office, 2233 University Ave. W. #355, St. Paul, MN:

DAYTIME: November 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19 and 20, 9am-5pm

AND

EVENING: Monday, Nov. 12, Tuesday, Nov. 13, or Wednesday, Nov. 14 from 5:00-8:pm

If you can help please let Mark Albers know at staff@mncitizensforthearts.org or 651-251-0868 so we can be sure we are ready to greet you.

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2. Comments on Minnesota’s Arts Education Standards Being Taken Until Nov. 20

You can impact the new academic standards for the arts in Minnesota. Minnesota requires the arts in Minnesota schools through the state’s academic standards. The following information comes from the Minnesota Music Educators Association:

During the 2007-08 school year, a committee, appointed by the Commissioner of Education, is reviewing and revising the Minnesota Academic Standards in the Arts (music, visual art, dance and theatre). The first draft is available now, and the public comment period is from November 1 – November 20. You can provide input by doing any of the following.

1) Go to one of five town hall meetings where the Arts Standards will be discussed. They are being held in Bemidji (Mon, Nov 5), Marshall (Thurs, Nov 8), Rochester (Mon, Nov 12), Golden Valley (Tues, Nov 13) and Duluth (Thurs, Nov 15). All meetings are from 6pm – 730pm. A detailed list of locations is posted on the Arts Standards Revision page of the MDE website: http://education.state.mn.us/MDE/Academic_Excellence/Academic_Standards/Arts/index.html

2) Ask members of your booster group, members of the PTA/PTO, parents of your students, administrators, school board members and other interested community members to attend one of the town hall meetings. Ask everyone to show their support of arts education.

3) Download the draft document, review the document, and share your input. An online submission form is available on the MDE website, as well as a comment form to download, complete and mail. All documents and forms are available on the Arts Standards Revision page on the MDE website. Input (online or via mail with the comment form) must be received by 4:30pm on Tues, Nov 20. Any interested person (parents, administrators, school board, educators and so on) can provide input on the document.

4) Send this information to other arts educators in your school or school district. The Arts Standards Revision page has all of the information you need. Scroll down to download the DRAFT revised standards, titled Arts Standards Revision – Draft One (Nov 2007). The schedule for public meetings is toward the bottom of the page and is titled Town Meeting Schedule. The link to provide input online is close to the top and is labeled online feedback form with a hyperlink. You can also print a feedback form and mail it to MDE. The feedback form to print is titled Public Comment Feedback Form and is close to the bottom of the page. If the link to the Arts Standards Revision page does not work, go to http://education.state.mn.us/MDE/Academic_Excellence/Academic_Standards/Arts/index.html You can also go to the main page for the Department’s website (education.state.mn.us), click on the Academic Standards link on the right, then the Arts link on the right. Finally, contact information for staff at the Perpich Center for Arts Education is included on the page if you have any questions. Thanks for taking the time to review the standards in the middle of a busy school year. MMEA Office info@mmea.org 763/566-1460

Making History:
The Upcoming Campaign for Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage

You Are Invited
to join other arts advocates for a discussion about the upcoming campaign for Minnesota’s arts and cultural heritage, 5:30-7:00 on Monday, November 5, 2007 at MCA’s Annual Meeting.

The Minnesota legislature is poised to pass a history-making proposal. In November of 2008, on the 150th Anniversary of our state, Minnesotans will have the historic opportunity to preserve our arts and cultural heritage by voting for a constitutional amendment that will create designated funding for the arts and environment. MCA is committed to working with conservation groups to put together a statewide campaign that will pass a proposal that could potentially triple arts funding in Minnesota, as well as provide new resources to ensure clean land and water in the state. It will be a nationally prominent move that will bring benefits for the next 25 years.

Come hear an update about this exciting proposal, where it stands in the legislature, what the next year will hold for the arts community and what it could all mean for the future of the arts in Minnesota. MCA Executive Director Sheila Smith and MCA lobbyist Larry Redmond will give you the latest news and lead a Q & A about what’s coming next.

Be among the first to hear the exciting details of this landmark opportunity for the arts in Minnesota, from those who are already working behind the scenes.

The evening will also include the presentations of legislative Arts All Star Awards to Representatives Dennis Ozment (37B), Rosemount and Rick Hansen (39A), South St. Paul for their outstanding work in the 2007 legislative session, the election of new MCA Board Members and a celebration of retiring MCA Board Members.

Join us 5:30-7:00 on November 5, 2007 at the Illusion Theatre in Minneapolis.

Please RSVP by calling 651-251-0868 or emailing to staff at mncitizensforthearts.org by November 1. Admission is free for MCA members and $5 for the general public.

The Illusion Theatre auditorium is located on the 8th floor of Hennepin Center for the Arts at 528 Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis. Parking is available in many ramps and lots in the area.

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Join MCA’s MySpace Page: www.myspace.com/mncitizensforthearts.

View MCA Advocates on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Mncitizensforthearts

Be a Member: MCA is funded entirely by the dues of its members. Do you appreciate receiving up to the minute news on the fate of the arts in the Minnesota State Legislature and Congress? We could not provide Arts Alerts if it weren’t for the wonderful and committed arts advocates who show their commitment by joining MCA. You can join by printing out the membership form on our website at www.mncitizensforthearts.org . Individual dues are just $30, and a household membership is just $40. Thank you!

October 11, 2007

1. MCA Launches Hot New Website… & Scavenger Hunt

2. MCA Has New Email Addressess

3. Job Opening at MCA

4. Attend Springboard’s Health Fair for Artists, November 3, 2007

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1. MCA Launches Hot New Website… & Scavenger Hunt

Check out MCA’s new website at www.mncitizensforthearts.org to see its hot new look. The trusty advocacy tools that you have come to know and love from our old website have been updated and never looked better.

Be informed – peruse our new pages filled with the latest information on current arts issues and our updated selection of arts research;
Be inspired – watch the new video from Arts Advocacy Day 2007;
Be influential – learn what your elected officials are doing to help or hurt the arts and let them know what you think at the Arts Action Center;
Be instrumental – bookmark MCA’s new website so that its tools and resources will be one click away. That way you’ll always know what fun events MCA wants to invite you to, what the latest arts advocacy news is, and what is going on behind the scenes.
Take our New Website Scavenger Hunt Challenge! The first three people to e-mail the correct answers to the following five questions will win an MCA t-shirt! All answers can be found within the new site; e-mail answers to staff at mncitizensforthearts.org.

In what year was MCA formed?
What image is in the place of board member Sheila Terryl’s headshot on the board list?
Which U.S. Congressman is pictured with MCA’s team of advocates in Washington D.C. at the 2007 National Arts Advocacy Day?
What was the total Minnesota State Arts Appropriation in 1977? In 2007?
When will Arts Advocacy Day 2008 be held?
Thank you to Katie Sabaka who has spearheaded the project for MCA, Jon Thompson and crew at www.mojosolo.com for their great design and endless assistance, and to board member Dan Zielske for kicking off the project.

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2. MCA Has New Email Addressess

Please also note that all MCA emails are changing as of today:
General email: staff at mncitizensforthearts.org
Sheila Smith, Executive Director: sheila at mncitizensforthearts.org
Katie Sabaka, Operations Manager: katie at mncitizensforthearts.org
Mark Albers, Field Worker: mark at mncitizensforthearts.org

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3. Job Opening at MCA

MCA is seeking a full time Operations Manager. The Operations Manager works with the Executive Director of MCA to implement statewide grassroots advocacy for the arts and organizes the day-to-day operations of the office. The Operations Manager reports to and is supervised by the Executive Director. Skills wanted: Previous office experience, computer literacy (Macintosh, Microsoft Word & Excel, Content Management System for website, basic html skills, Dreamweaver, Filemaker Pro, web-based advocacy systems, database operations), excellent writing skills, ability to work independently as well as collaboratively, ability to handle a variety of people with tact and intelligence. Knowledge of state political system and grassroots organizing and/or arts administration a plus.

Responsibilities:
Operations:

Manage and maintain the MCA database, including troubleshooting, updating addresses and producing reports. Maintain MCA’s website, www.mncitizensforthearts.org. Office management duties including ordering supplies, serving as liaison to vendors, maintain/troubleshoot computers and other office equipment, organize phone coverage, mail, bank deposits, and filing and other administrative tasks.
Hire, train and supervise interns.
Assist with communications and special mailings. Manage mailing list.
Assist the Executive Director with general problem solving, correspondence, reports, and meetings.
Board correspondence, meeting scheduling and reminders, minute-taking and filing of all full board and committee meetings.
Advocacy:

Coordinate MCA events and special projects, such as Advocacy Day, constituent meetings, candidate forums, annual candidate survey, research projects, etc.
Plan and implement volunteer activities, including mailing parties, phone banks, Campus Arts Advocates, Advocacy Day volunteer jobs, and others as needed.
Assist MCA members and other arts advocates with needs related to advocacy (ie, identifying and contacting their legislators).
Serve as liaison between MCA and staffs of member arts organizations and the Regional Arts Councils.
Membership:

Work with the membership committee to implement all phases of fundraising, such as coordinating bi-annual membership drives, monthly or bi-monthly renewal letters, tracking contributions, maintaining database and mailing lists, and sending thank you letters.
Submit application by October 26, 2007 to: Operations Manager Job Opening, Minnesota Citizens for the Arts, 2233 University Ave. W. #355, St. Paul, MN 55114

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4. Attend Springboard’s Health Fair for Artists, November 3, 2007

Please join us at Springboard for the Arts’ Health Fair for Artists, a day devoted to connecting all artists, arts administrators and their families to healthcare resources. The Health Fair is on Saturday, November 3rd from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Carleton Artist Lofts in St. Paul (2285 University Ave). The event is FREE;

Event Features:

Participate in workshops and speak one-on-one with representatives of affordable health insurance, low-cost clinics, nutrition, fitness, and alternative care.
Receive free and low-cost screenings. Free screenings include Blood Pressure, Hearing, Balance, Spinal, Physical Therapy, and Massage Therapy / Bodyworking consultations about a certain health concern. Low-cost screenings include Total Cholesterol and Blood Sugar.
Take part in the Flu Shot Clinic, provided by Homeland Health Specialists. ($23/flu shot, payment by cash or check. Receipts provided for most insurance plans. Medicare Part B is accepted as payment; please bring card).
Connect with financial planners, who can help you design a plan for a healthy future without the high pressure.
Discover the artwork of the Carleton Artist Lofts artists, who will open their doors to attendees.
Pre-register online at www.springboardforthearts.org or by phone at 651-292-4381. (More info at: http://www.springboardforthearts.org/HealthFair/healthfair2007.asp)

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Join MCA’s MySpace Page: www.myspace.com/mncitizensforthearts.

View MCA Advocates on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Mncitizensforthearts

Be a Member: MCA is funded entirely by the dues of its members. Do you appreciate receiving up to the minute news on the fate of the arts in the Minnesota State Legislature and Congress? We could not provide Arts Alerts if it weren’t for the wonderful and committed arts advocates who show their commitment by joining MCA. You can join by printing out the membership form on our website at www.mncitizensforthearts.org . Individual dues are just $30, and a household membership is just $40. Thank you!

Buy Cool Arts Stuff: www.cafepress.com/mnforthearts.
Let everyone know that you love the arts. Designer Barbara Keith has created some cool new designs to help you show your arts support. Treat yourself to a great shirt or create the perfect gift for an artsy friend’s home or office. Every purchase will support MCA. It’s easy, personalized and affordable. In a matter of moments you can create and order something unique that says: “support the arts” “start seeing art” “got art?” “Arts Advocate” or “Support the Arts: Take Action Now.”

Take Action: www.mncitizensforthearts.org.
Your frequently updated, one-stop site for: information about Minnesota Citizens for the Arts and how you can get involved, an Action Center called the Arts Action Center where you can write a letter to your legislator, or even find out who your legislators are, facts about the arts in Minnesota, the latest on legislative and congressional action on arts issues and more!

Things You Need To Know:
MCA values your privacy, and will not sell or distribute your personal information to anyone. MCA is a nonpartisan statewide arts advocacy organization whose mission is to ensure opportunity for all people to have access to and involvement in the arts. MCA organizes the arts community and lobbies the Minnesota State Legislature and Congress on issues pertaining to the nonprofit arts. If you are interested in learning more about how to advocate for the arts, or how to activate people in your arts organization or community to lobby for the arts, please call us at 651-251-0868 or e-mail staff at mncitizensforthearts.org. State arts funding supports access to the arts for all Minnesotans. The state-funded Minnesota State Arts Board and eleven Regional Arts Councils provide grants and services in every Minnesota county for artists, arts organizations, arts projects and school artist residencies. For more information on regional or state grants, go to www.arts.state.mn.us/racs/index.htm.

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