[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 161 (Monday, December 15, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2415]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                     THANK YOU FRED AND CINDY SALEM

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                          HON. JAMES A. BARCIA

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 13, 1997

  Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, Our Nation was built on the strength of 
people's generosity and support for each other. Each year in November 
we sit down for Thanksgiving dinner with our family and friends to 
reflect on life's blessings and share our appreciation for those who 
have given us much love, joy, and support throughout the year.
  I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a couple, Fred and 
Cindy Salem, who, for the past 20 years, have provided much happiness, 
excitement and entertainment to both the children and adults of Mt. 
Morris. Although they modestly believe that they are not providing a 
great service, their kindness has made an enormous positive impact in 
their community.
  For the past two decades, Fred, Cindy, and their daughter Katie have 
graciously welcomed thousands of people into their hearts and home 
inviting them to enjoy their 5 acres of land in which they build a 
spectacular playground. A day at the Salem's playground includes racing 
go-carts or driving golf carts. If you want to play 18 holes of 
miniature golf, it is available as well. A couple can ride to the top 
of a Ferris wheel and even the littlest children can enjoy themselves 
by taking a ride on a miniature train.
  Throughout the year, they invite people to share in their magical 
playground where children laugh and play and adults remember the 
freedom and innocence of their childhood. In May and June, school 
children from the Mt. Morris School District go on field trips to the 
Salem Home. Between 40 to 80 children visit the Salems on each trip. In 
the summer they have a picnic and they start off the Christmas season 
hosting a warm and wonderful party.
  At a time when there is turmoil in the world, it is nice to know that 
there are still people who care about the community and give 
unselfishly. Both adults and children have a place to get away, relax, 
play and have fun with their extended family. This gift to the 
community is priceless. Mr. Speaker, I ask today to pay tribute to a 
family that has given a unique, and needed gift to the town of Mt. 
Morris.

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