[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 69 (Thursday, May 22, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1015]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATION OF THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SANTA BARBARA MENTAL 
                           HEALTH ASSOCIATION

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                          HON. WALTER H. CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 22, 1997

  Mr. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Santa Barbara 
Mental Health Association, which is located in my district and 
celebrates its 50th anniversary today. Historically, the needs of 
people with mental illness have often been neglected and forgotten. The 
Santa Barbara Mental Health Association was formed in 1947 by caring 
people who recognized the inadequacies in the care which mentally ill 
people received, and were determined never to allow these individuals 
to be ignored.
  Today, the volunteers and staff of the association run two group 
homes and a drop-in center providing classes, support groups, meals, 
and a friendly atmosphere to mentally ill people. To the families of 
persons with mental illness, the association offers education and 
support services. The association also helps build understanding in the 
community by putting people in contact with, and educating them about, 
the challenges and triumphs of the mentally disabled.
  Mr. Speaker, I would also like to take a moment to thank my dear 
friend Tom Rogers who will be honored by the Mental Health Association 
for his years of dedicated service and outstanding achievement on 
behalf of persons with mental illness. As a county supervisor and well-
respected leader of our community, Tom Rogers has had the courage and 
ability to stand up and work for those people who most need a friend 
and advocate. And as everyone on the central coast knows, Mr. Speaker, 
Tom's courage and strength of spirit are shining brightly in the face 
of his own personal adversity.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me today in commending Tom Rogers 
and the Santa Barbara Mental Health Association for their years of 
service to the community.

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