U.S. Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY) addressed an enthusiastic audience of museum patrons at the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University's Seventh Annual Gala, "15 Minutes of Fame! The Andy Warhol Experience" on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009. Rep. Slaughter, one of Congress' most outspoken and effective advocates for the arts, noted that she was happy "to recognize the important work of both the Castellani Museum and Niagara University as stewards of the arts" at the event, which raises funds for the museum's many educational and exhibition-related programs for Niagara University students and the surrounding community.

Rep. Slaughter also emphasized the importance of the arts to the economy, noting that "arts and culture are important economic assets. They create a hub of economic activity, attracting investments, generating tax revenues, and stimulating local economies through tourism and urban renewal." She added that in her district, there are more than 1,200 arts-related businesses employing nearly 16,000 people.

For the complete text of Rep. Slaughter's remarks, visit www.niagara/edu/speeches/