[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 120 (Thursday, September 22, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1927-E1928]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF THE OPENING OF THE ANDERSON-ABRUZZO INTERNATIONAL BALLOON 
                                 MUSEUM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM UDALL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 22, 2005

  Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise 
today to commemorate the opening of The Anderson-Abruzzo International 
Balloon Museum, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This museum celebrates and 
honors the long-standing tradition of ballooning in the Land of 
Enchantment. This opening is the culmination of a tremendous effort on 
the part of the Anderson and Abruzzo families and devoted friends and 
business partners, all of whom have shared in the vision and dream to 
create a world class collection of ballooning memorabilia and 
equipment.
  The exhibits and programs stand as a testament to the history, 
science and art of ballooning. This museum will be a significant 
addition to the city known as the ``The Balloon Capital of the World'' 
and will prove to be a wonderful complement to Albuquerque's annual 
International Balloon Fiesta.

[[Page E1928]]

  This commanding building is a fitting tribute to Albuquerque 
balloonists Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson who are recognized 
internationally for their first non-stop crossing of the Atlantic Ocean 
by gas balloon. Not only will this museum serve as a constant reminder 
of their legacies, but it will also offer extensive and educational 
exhibits that will inform and broaden ballooning enthusiasts for years 
to come.
  The Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum will serve as an 
educational institution. The museum's innovative educational outreach 
plan includes field trip opportunities, lectures, and an emphasis on 
integrating the Balloon Museum into the Albuquerque Public Schools 
curriculum.
  I am pleased to congratulate the Anderson-Abruzzo International 
Balloon Museum and all of those whose efforts and contributions have 
made this opening possible. I would like to especially thank the 
Anderson and Abruzzo families, whose vision and continued dedication 
have been the driving factor in the museum's completion. I would also 
like to thank the City of Albuquerque for embracing and financing this 
project. I am proud to join the community in celebrating this amazing 
new addition to New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I ask that all my colleagues 
rise to congratulate the many professionals and volunteers who have 
helped to make this wonderful new museum a reality.

                          ____________________