[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 85 (Wednesday, May 18, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E526-E527]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   COMMEMORATING THE ANTON ART CENTER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ANDY LEVIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 18, 2022

  Mr. LEVIN of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 
Anton Art Center of Mount Clemens, Michigan on its historic building 
being designated as a place worthy of preservation in the National 
Register of Historic Places. The building has served as a cherished and 
integrative resource in the Mount Clemens community. When the Art 
Center was first established in the historic Carnegie Library Building, 
three Mount Clemens Art Association members--Bea Wright, Gretchen 
Thompson, and Phyllis Wickens--set out to preserve the then Mount 
Clemens Public Library and save the historic building from demolition.
  In 1904, the Mount Clemens Library opened its doors to the public 
after a year of construction. This building is unique to the history of 
Mount Clemens, as it was one of approximately 2,500 libraries funded by 
Andrew Carnegie throughout the world. The library drew hundreds of 
visitors coming to explore Mount Clemens' famous mineral baths during 
the early 1900s. In 1963, the library was converted to include three 
galleries, an art studio, a meeting area, a pottery studio, a kiln 
room, and offices. In 1969, the library was moved to a new building and 
the original building changed its primary role to a non-profit known as 
The Art Center.
  It is incredible to see how the Anton Art Center has created engaging 
programs for all ages centered around empowering those involved in the 
arts. When local businessman Gebran Anton led a fundraising effort to 
expand the building in 2006, the Art Center was able to add a gift shop 
to support the work of local artists, increase gallery space, and 
increase classroom space. As a cherished resource to Macomb County it 
is clear the mission of the Anton Art Center is alive and well today.
  In 2022, the Anton Art Center provides an open and welcoming 
atmosphere that brings

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together a wide audience, instills support for the arts, and is a focal 
point for arts programming and works toward inclusion, diversity, 
equity, and access in all they do. In Macomb County and throughout 
Southeastern Michigan, the Anton Art Center continues to be a strong 
leader in advocating for local arts and artists. It is essential that 
we recognize the Anton Art Center for its long history and lasting 
contributions. The Anton Art Center also holds a deep personal 
significance to me, as my family and I have attended a number of 
programs there over the years.
  On behalf of Michigan's 9th District, it is my honor to recognize the 
work of the Anton Art Center's leaders, workers, and community members 
for their dedication and perseverance in promoting this historic 
building. Their work will ensure that future generations are able to 
visit the building and reflect on the rich history that makes Mount 
Clemens the wonderful city it is today.

                          ____________________