Recognizing Deb Polich's Impact on Washtenaw County, Michigan

Floor Speech

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Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of Deb Polich and to celebrate her work as a champion for the arts and creative industries in Washtenaw County, Michigan. As President and CEO of Creative Washtenaw and Artrain, Inc., Deb's commitment to advancing the arts in Michigan is worthy of commendation.

Deb attended Eastern Michigan University where she earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Arts Administration. She started her career in the arts at the historic Michigan Theater where she assisted in the theatre restoration initiative. Launching the ``Not Just for Kids'' program, she increased family and child involvement in the performing arts in Ann Arbor, where she was an inspiration for those of all ages to get started in the arts.

As President of Artrain, Inc. for over three decades, she has worked tirelessly to deliver inspirational museum galleries to local communities using a museum-on-a-train model. Travelling across Michigan and the United States, her 600 plus visits meant that countless individuals--from schoolchildren to grandparents--experienced Artrain programs and many became creative practitioners, consumers, and supporters themselves. Her mentorship and leadership throughout the United States was recognized by First Lady Laura Bush, who presented Deb with the National Medal for Museum Service in 2006.

Her energy seemingly has no limitations as Deb frequently involves herself in multiple projects in order to spread the message on the importance of art and culture in Michigan. As Founder and President/CEO of Creative Washtenaw, she spearheaded the effort to create an agency based in Washtenaw County that aims to directly support artists, businesses, and the government to maintain the region's dominance in the artistic and creative industry. By connecting industries and communities all over the greater Ann Arbor area, she has directly led to the flourishing creative scene in Washtenaw County.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the magnificent career of Deb Polich and congratulating her as she moves on to the next chapter of her life. Her dedication to her community and country in advancing the field of art has created a more beautiful world for us all.

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