[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 193 (Thursday, December 6, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1614]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING DOWNTOWN AURORA VISUAL ARTS

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                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 6, 2018

  Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise today to recognize 
Downtown Aurora isual Arts. This non-profit organization located in my 
hometown of Aurora, Colorado provides art education courses for 
students of all ages. Originally founded in 1993, Downtown Aurora 
Visual Arts has become a place for children and young people to fuel 
their creativity and to develop character through an artistic avenue.
  For the younger artists, Downtown Aurora Visual Arts' OASIS Studio 
program introduces them to pottery, sculpture, and a variety of other 
art projects. Doing so allows their imagination to grow. The 
development of imagination is incredibly important to the overall 
development of children. Such programs are especially important after 
school and during the summer months when children are not in school.
  Another program, `Job Training in the Arts' familiarizes middle and 
high school students with the critical workforce skills needed to 
succeed in a real job. It emphasizes teamwork, respect, personal 
responsibility, and the development of problem-solving skills in the 
workplace. The programs that Downtown Aurora Visual Arts provides 
promote positive youth development and encourage students to address 
issues and concepts that personally impact them.
  I am very proud to note that Downtown Aurora Visual Arts was awarded 
the 2014 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award. This award 
serves as the nation's highest honor for out-of-school arts and 
humanities programs focused on America's young people. Additionally, I 
would like to recognize the leadership of the Executive Director Susan 
Jenson who was awarded 2018 Arts and Society Award from the Bonfils 
Stanton Foundation.
  Organizations like Downtown Aurora Visual Arts help make the city of 
Aurora, and our greater community the wonderful place it is today. I am 
honored to salute Downtown Aurora Visual Arts' achievements and look 
forward to its continued success in the years to come.

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