Prickly Poppy, Marilyn Gendron, 1996.Fine works by local artists, selected by the late Elisabeth Simon from her personal collection for donation to Gila/Mimbres Community Radio (GMCR), will be offered by silent auction Wednesday through Friday, February 13-15, 2019, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. The event is hosted by Geisler Studio (Common Ground), 102 W. Kelly, Silver City, NM, just a few steps west of the corner of Kelly and North Bullard Street. All proceeds will benefit GMCR and KURU 89.1 FM.

The event will include a reception on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 4-7 p.m., at Common Ground, featuring watercolor artist and youth mural coordinator Marilyn Gendron, and other close friends of Elisabeth Simon and her husband, Gene, a renowned newspaper publisher and columnist whose weekly column, “Think About It,” appeared regionally for many years. The musical duo Bayou Seco will provide musical entertainment.

Elisabeth Simon was well known throughout Grant County for her dedicated service to the community, and for her encouragement to local artists. She was an enthusiastic supporter of GMCR and KURU 89.1 FM, an independent, community-supported station that broadcasts music, news and public affairs, cultural and educational topics, and commentary, with Spanish-language in addition to English programming. The station recently completed its fifth year of broadcasting quality local and national programs 24 hours/day at 10,500 watts.

"We are calling the show 'A Heart for Art'", said Curator & Arts-Activist, Paula Geisler, explaining that this theme reflects her nonstop efforts to encourage a culture of philanthropy in support of the Arts in Grant County since she moved here in 1989.

Gila/Mimbres Community Radio will hold an open house at the station, 519-B. North Bullard (at Sixth Street), February 14-15, 2019, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. “Everyone is invited to enjoy refreshments and conversation with Board members, program hosts, and volunteers,” a spokesperson said. “Come on by, and then stroll down the street and around the corner to Geisler Studio to view this great local art and place your bids to support your community radio station.”

The station is funded by donations. To join or simply donate, call 575-597-4891, visit GMCR.org on the Internet and double-click the “support” tab, or visit the station at 519-B North Bullard Street in Silver City, NM 88061. Donations may be made with PayPal, by check payable to GMCR, in cash brought to the station, or by credit card.