[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 56 (Monday, May 5, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E839]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN HONOR OF BAYONNE ELKS LODGE 434: PROUD PARTICIPANTS IN ELKS NATIONAL 
                               YOUTH WEEK

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                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 5, 1997

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an 
exceptional organization, the Bayonne Elks Lodge 434 as they 
participate in this year's Elks National Youth Week. A group of 30 
young people will take part in an awards luncheon to be held at the 
Elks Lodge 434 in Bayonne.
  The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Bayonne Elks Lodge 434 
is an organization committed to active involvement in the lives of 
community residents in the town of Bayonne. During their long history, 
the selfless efforts of these exceptional people have supported such 
diverse groups as veterans of all wars and handicapped children. 
Additionally, the Bayonne Elks Lodge 434 has promoted youth oriented 
causes related to drug awareness and annually holds a special youth day 
in recognition of the contributions of high school seniors to Bayonne.
  I believe that the best way to ensure the future prosperity of our 
great Nation is to provide our young people with the broadest possible 
experiences from which they can learn and grow. Elks National Youth 
Week is a time when this philanthropic organization recognizes the 
achievements and contributions of our young adults. The Bayonne Elks 
Lodge 434, by holding their yearly youth day, affords high school 
seniors the chance to witness the governmental process firsthand. 
Students are assigned positions within city government, sworn into 
their positions, and tour Bayonne City Hall with the corresponding city 
official.
  Through their participation in the Bayonne Elks Lodge 434 Annual 
Youth Day, the young people being honored are well on their way to 
becoming our future leaders of tomorrow. Each person has worked during 
their school careers and have overcome many obstacles. They are the 
premier students in their respective high schools. The people of 
Bayonne will undoubtedly one day benefit from the talents of these 
exceptional young men and women.
  I ask that my colleagues join me in applauding the outstanding 
efforts of the Bayonne Elks Lodge 434. I am proud to have this 
exemplary organization working on behalf of the residents of my 
congressional district.

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