Actor Tim Daly -- known for television roles on "Wings" and "Private Practice"
-- told a House committee in Washington, D.C., that entertainment and the arts
have a positive impact on the nation's economy.

Daly, who is also co-president of The Creative Coalition, said:

"Too often, we look at art as something extra, a luxury item. Arts are part of
our cultural and our economic 'main course'; they are not 'dessert.' We must
take steps to ensure the continued vibrancy of our arts and entertainment and
invest in the future."

He was testifying before the U.S. House Education and Labor Committee and
focused on arts and entertainment as vital business enterprises that play an
essential role in creating jobs across America.

"Arts employ our neighbors, support small businesses, create jobs for engineers
and foster innovation," said Robin Bronk, executive director of The Creative
Coalition.

http://www.minnpost.com/artsarena/2009/03/26/7658/arts_and_the_economy

Wow, I admire this guy more and more. Not only he is a great actor, but also he
is doing so much charity work and social activity.
By the way, I would probably die, if I had to speak at Congressional level :)