[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 88 (Monday, June 21, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S7371]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               BOSTON CELTICS' ``HEROES AMONG US'' AWARD

 Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, it is a privilege to take this 
opportunity to salute a group of special individuals who have been 
honored by the Boston Celtics as ``Heroes Among Us.'' These are people 
representing all walks of life who have helped others. They have 
demonstrated courage, they have made sacrifices, and they have achieved 
worthwhile goals. They have improved lives, and sometimes saved lives. 
Some have worked with the elderly and others the very young. Some have 
overcome personal handicaps, and all have inspired others. In doing so, 
they have tackled difficult issues and helped the entire community. 
These heroes are role models. We look up to them as examples of people 
who have made a difference. They are eminently deserving of the award 
bestowed upon them by the Boston Celtics.
  The ``Heroes Among Us'' Award was instituted by the Boston Celtics 
Charitable Foundation in 1997. Since then, 67 heroes, including 
educators, business executives, medical professionals, clergy and 
public servants, have been honored. During a special ceremony each home 
game on the Celtics legendary parquet floor at Boston Garden, the 
heroes were honored by players and fans at home games during the past 
two basketball seasons.
  The Boston Celtics have a longstanding tradition of giving back to 
their community. Throughout the years, the team has initiated or 
participated in many community outreach programs, through the non-
profit work of the Boston Celtics Charitable Foundation and the Red 
Auerbach Youth Foundation.
  In 1996, the Celtics organization was awarded the Professional Team 
Community Award from the World Sport Humanitarian Hall of Fame, and was 
honored for having the most effective and innovative community 
relations program among all professional sports teams. The Boston 
Celtics' players, coaches, family and staff are committed to improving 
the lives of youth and families. Their philosophy--``The Celtics 
Standing Tall in Partnership with the Community''--is reflected year 
after year in the outstanding work they do to accomplish their mission, 
and I commend them for their brilliant achievements.

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