[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 96 (Friday, July 21, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1299]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CENTRAL NEW JERSEY CELEBRATES THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE FLEMINGTON 
                     AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY #159

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                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 20, 2000

  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 
accomplishments of the Flemington American Legion auxiliary #159. This 
organization has continually made lasting contributions to its local 
communities through hard work and dedication to those in need.
  For nearly fifteen years, its members have canvassed the Flemington 
Area for needy families during the holiday season. Last December, they 
raised enough money to shop for sixty families with over one hundred 
children. Four ``Santas'' personally presented each family with two 
large boxes of food, toys, games and clothing for the children.
  This past January, the organization made another demonstration of its 
commitment to the community during times of crisis. On January 22, a 
gas explosion badly injured and burned a fire chief and police 
patrolman after they responded to a 911 call, resulting in their 
lengthy hospitalization. in response, the organization hosted a benefit 
spaghetti dinner. With a massive volunteer effort, members worked as 
cooks, dishwashers, and parking attendants. Contributing both time and 
money, the group served over 800 dinners, raising enough funds to 
present the two men checks of $5,000 each when they were finally 
discharged from the hospital.
  As extraordinary as this effort was, it was just one of many times 
that the American Legion Auxiliary #159 has worked on behalf of those 
in need. Throughout the years, the American Legion Auxiliary #159 has 
donated money to Special Olympics, Childrens Miracle Network, Cancer 
Research, March of Dimes, Red Cross, Salvation Army and numerous other 
local charities. Working with its ``Legion Family'' that includes the 
American Legion and Sons of the American Legion Post #159, it has 
continually demonstrated its dedication to the community.
  The American Legion Auxiliary #159 is a great asset to both Central 
New Jersey and our nation. I urge all my colleagues to join me today in 
recognizing its dedication to community service and Central New Jersey.

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