[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 135 (Thursday, October 2, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1917]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE FLORIDA SHERIFFS YOUTH RANCHES

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                            HON. ALLEN BOYD

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 2, 1997

  Mr. BOYD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 40th 
anniversary of the incorporation of the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. 
On October 2, 1957, the sheriffs of the State of Florida, with the best 
interests of our young men and women in mind, saw fit to organize the 
Florida Sheriffs Boys Ranch along the banks of the Suwannee River. The 
Florida Sheriffs Boys Ranch has been in continuous operation for the 
last 40 years and has served as the foundation for programs ranging 
from statewide child care programs to nationally accredited, community-
based, family counseling services; independent living skills; parenting 
classes; and family life education.
  The ongoing work of these rewarding programs and their dedicated 
staff have given over 30,000 young men and women the chance to resolve 
personal conflicts and the opportunity to live as lawful, productive 
assets to society. Their efforts have helped to rebuild the American 
family and combat juvenile crime at the source, encouraging our youth 
to act as responsible citizens and to pursue more rewarding pastimes 
and activities. Their hard work and dedication to the youth of the 
State of Florida is most commendable, and I ask, Mr. Speaker, that you 
join me in honoring the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches on this, their 
40th anniversary.

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