Given the full slate of witnesses and the schedules of

those participating, I will stop here. I look forward to the

testimony of each of our witnesses.

APPENDIX E -- WRITTEN STATEMENT OF THE HON. WILLIAM L. CLAY, A

CONGRESSMAN FROM THE STATE OF MISSOURI

43-500-97 - 6

I too would like to welcome Mr. Baldwin, who has been such a

vigorous and articulate advocate for the arts, and Ms. Alexander who

many could say has one of the toughest jobs in Washington these days, and all the other witnesses who are giving testimony today.

I believe that the National Endowment for the Arts has enriched the lives of millions of Americans, rich and poor, young and old, all across this country. The NEA has brought the arts to our nation's schools in a powerful way through artist residencies, school

performances, and master classes. Through partnerships at the local level, it has leveraged millions of dollars from local and state agencies, corporations, foundations, businesses, and individuals. In rural,

suburban, and urban communities, the arts have come alive with locally sponsored museums, folk festivals, theater, and arts centers that enhance the quality of community life.

Recently, studies have shown that early exposure to music and the

arts encourages cognitive development in children. It increases their self