National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Dana Gioia has presented President George W. Bush’s Fiscal Year 2008 budget request of $128.4 million to the House Interior Appropriations Subcommittee. The Chairman declared himself “pleased that the President's budget contains an increase of $4 million for the NEA” and was “proud to report that the NEA is currently operating with high artistic standards, unprecedented democratic access, inclusive partnerships, and improved efficiency.” “We have made remarkable progress in recent years,” he told the subcommittee, “and today have a strong sense of confidence in our public mission, reputation and record of service.” For more information, CLICK HERE To read the full transcript of Mr Gioia’s testimony, CLICK HERE