the NEA is an organization for the government to funnel money to non profit art businesses. Why should the arts be a tax exempt organization? I created a business in the arts in a community i care about and my revenues have been doubling for the past three years. Why should the arts be relegated to a public charity? Why should people with profound skills beg for money against places that need it? The arts have become so dependant on government handouts that the hack job artists out keep coming back for free cash and the government recognizes it. I foresee the tax exempt status for arts organizations totally being wiped out from 501(c)3 status in the future and why shouldn't it be? Doesn't it disgust you that a business will give you cash ONLY for the tax deduction? If you have a quality product people will patronize it regardless of its tax classification. Even though my business qulaifies for 501(c)3 I purposefully spat upon it. The arts are worth more than "public charity" status and the admins must wake up and realize it. Stop being a professional begger and find the way to advocate its importance in everyday life. You will see far greater returns. Non profit arts.. public charity arts... how sad. Its like saying i gave up and asked for a grant because i couldnt figure out how valuable it is. I started with $0 and now i gross over $100k a year because i add value to the lives around me. NOT because i ask for some silly NEA to give it to me or some other tax exempt organization. Or some business that wants a tax break! sheeesh!