[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 96 (Friday, July 21, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1296]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   TRIBUTE TO CURTIS J. KNOWLES, RECIPIENT OF THE BOB LING MEMORIAL 
                             SERVICE AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 20, 2000

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on July 22, 2000 the Village of 
Athens will celebrate its heritage and the new millennium during 
Homecoming 2000 activities. As part of the celebration, the community 
will honor Curtis J. Knowles with the Bob Ling Memorial Service Award.
  Born and raised in Hillsdale County, Michigan, Curt and I attended 
Addison High School and Pilgrim Fellowship at Somerset Congregational 
Church together. Curt attended Michigan State University and Hillsdale 
College, graduating in 1961. While in school, he and his father started 
the Knowles Excavating Company and did much work throughout southern 
Michigan. Curt moved with his family to Athens in 1966 where he began 
teaching and coaching. He served as the head boys' basketball coach 
until being named athletic director in 1975. In addition to boys' 
athletics, Curt coached Athens area girls softball from 1979 to 1994. 
He was elected president of the Athletic Boosters Club in 1978 and held 
that post until he retired from teaching in 1996.
  Curt joined the Athens Improvement Association in 1974 and has worked 
tirelessly for the betterment of the community through numerous 
projects, including serving as the annual homecoming parade announcer 
for the past 23 years. Curt is well known for his upbeat attitude and 
wonderful sense of humor.
  Regardless of the occasion, he always has a funny or interesting 
story to share. In his retirement, Curt has returned to his roots, 
rejoining the family excavating business in partnership with his son 
John.
  The strength of communities like Athens lies in the many dedicated 
citizens who give selflessly of their time and talents to enhance the 
quality of life for those around them. Curt Knowles has always been one 
of these exemplary citizens.
  I am proud to call Curt a lifelong friend and join with the citizens 
of Athens in thanking him for his many years of service to the 
community and congratulating his on this well deserved honor.

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