In Honor of the Retirement of Lynn Selmser Hon. Michael N. Castle of Delaware

Mrs. WILSON. Mr. Speaker, I wish to bring to your attention a woman in my home town of Albuquerque, New Mexico who has contributed much to our community. On March 20, 2001 Mary Ann Weems along with friends and family celebrated the 20th anniversary of Weems Galleries and Framing. Inspired by her vision of a gallery that would warmly welcome anyone who found joy in art as an expression of life, Mary Ann began this journey toward excellence in the visual arts twenty years ago. Her first gallery was in a little-noticed shopping center, opened with borrowed money and lack of business experience. She won the confidence and trust of New Mexico artists and aficionados who joined in supporting her vision of making more art accessible to more people. That vision led 10 years ago to the first Weems Artfest, now the nationally ranked annual event which attracts thousands of families and children to see and experience New Mexico art. The Artfest also provides an affordable venue for all kinds of artists to gain exposure for their talents. The Artfest benefits the whole community of artists by increasing awareness of their work, and by expanding the community of admirers who will pay a fair price for art that touches their spirit. Additionally, the Artfest hosts a charity event to raise funds for healthcare needs in our community, particularly for children. By making art more accessible for children, Mary Ann gives every child who participates the chance to discover something wonderful in themselves. For children who face challenges, it’s a discovery gives them powerful hope for their future. Mary Ann serves as my Chairperson for the Congressional Art Competition. Mary Ann Weems earned her success in the visual arts the hard way, by trial and error and sheer grit. She achieved excellence in the visual arts by setting new standards for what a gallery can be, and what an art show can become, and making her vision real for the whole of New Mexico’s art community. Please join me in recognizing the achievements of this business woman, Mary Ann Weems.