[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 17 (Friday, February 27, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S1165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNITION OF REVEREND ROOSEVELT AUSTIN

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I rise today to join with many of 
the people from Saginaw, Michigan, as they recognize and honor Reverend 
Roosevelt Austin with the Coleman Temple Christian Board of Education 
``Living Legend'' award.
  Each year, an individual is selected to receive this honor based on 
outstanding community service, achievement in the public and/or private 
sector, and commitment to the cause of political, social and economic 
advancement for African Americans. Reverend Austin certainly meets the 
criteria for this award. Recognized as one of the most influential 
leaders in the city of Saginaw, he is the pastor of Zion Missionary 
Baptist Church.
  Reverend Austin was ordained nearly 35 years ago, and since then he 
has truly made a difference in the lives of thousands of people. This 
is evidenced by the honors he has received from civic groups throughout 
the years, from the Citizen of Saginaw Award bestowed upon him by the 
city of Saginaw, to the Whitney M. Young Award, given to him by the Boy 
Scouts of America. He serves on the boards of numerous organizations in 
his community, including the National Association for the Advancement 
of Colored People, the Commission on Quality Education for all 
Children, and Second National Bank of Saginaw.
  Members of Zion Missionary Baptist Church would say that the most 
important role Reverend Austin plays is that of a spiritual leader. 
Indeed, from his work in the Saginaw County Jail to the lives he 
touches each day in his own congregation, Reverend Austin is deeply 
devoted to his ministry and to the spiritual well-being of so many 
people in Saginaw.
  Mr. President, throughout his career, Reverend Roosevelt Austin has 
truly exemplified the ideals which are the foundation for the Coleman 
Temple Christian Board of Education ``Living Legend'' award. I know my 
colleagues will join me in recognizing Reverend Austin for his 
commitment to his community and to equality and justice for all 
people.

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