Northeast Georgia
Community Concert Association
The 2009 -2010 Season has been cancelled.

In light of the current economic conditions which has lead to record levels of joblessness and tight budgets for both local governments and citizens, leaders of the Northeast Georgia Community Concert Association (NEGCCA) have decided to cancel their upcoming season.

During a recent special meeting of the group’s board of directors, following a lengthy discussion and much consideration, the association’s leaders voted to forgo the 2009-2010 season which would have began this fall.

NEGCCA President Terry Carter said “ the group’s previous shows have been successful and but the board felt in an atmosphere of layoffs and job loss, the right thing to do is to take a break for a year until the economy improves and we don’t jeopardize the financial cushion the association has built from previous performances.” Carter said the economy has had a negative impact on cultural institutions elsewhere such at the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta, which for the first time in its history, did not make it fundraising goal for this upcoming season. “When you have people losing their jobs, county employees taking furloughs, record unemployment rates and the general public having to closely watch their budget, it just didn’t feel right to push forward on the season. While we sincerely believe that the arts are a very important part of any community’s life, the fact is that these activities aren’t necessities.” Carter said when the economy improves, hopefully by next year, the group will be stronger than ever since it has preserved its financial reserves.

The performing arts group relies on ticket sales to the public, sponsorships from local businesses and grants. All of these sources of revenue have declined due to the severe recession.

The board of directors hopes the hiatus will allow for more volunteers to become involved in the NEGCCA which recently concluded its 13th season. “The decision to take a one-year break was not an easy one for the board and everyone affiliated with the Northeast Georgia Community Concert Association appreciates the public’s understanding during this time,” said Carter.