[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 76 (Tuesday, June 5, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1008]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING MICHIGAN ELKS ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION

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                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 5, 2001

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Michigan State 
Association of the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the 
World. On June 12-17, Elks from all over Michigan will gather in my 
hometown of Flint for their 75th Annual State Convention.
  Attorney Benjamin Franklin Howard in Cincinnati, Ohio founded the 
Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World in 1898. Its 
purpose remains to promote and enhance the welfare of its members and 
the communities they come from through the spirit of benevolence and 
inculcation in all its members. The order of Elkdom is best known for a 
century of give over $2.5 million in scholarships to youth of all races 
and cultures throughout the United States.
  Over the years, the Michigan State Association have graciously made 
donations to Children's Hospital of Michigan, the United Negro College 
Fund, and many other charities. They have also given over $30,000 to 
other hospitals, as well as the Michigan Kidney Foundation.
  Children have always been a focal point of the Elks, as the Michigan 
State Association has shown through their dedication to scholastic 
achievement. The Elks regularly contribute to literacy programs, 
oratorical contests, and other programs designed to presenting our 
young people with a public forum, and a chance to shine.
  I would like to recognize the leaders of the Michigan State 
Association: Mr. Alfred Bell, State President, and Mrs. Julia M. Ford, 
Michigan State President of the Daughters of Elks. It is through their 
leadership that the Elks serve as such a tremendous group of people.
  Mr. Speaker, as a member of several civic organizations, I know very 
well that groups such as the Elks work diligently to improve the 
quality of life for all those they come into contact with. I am honored 
that the Michigan State Association have chosen Flint as the site of 
their 75h Annual Convention. I ask my colleagues in the 107th Congress 
to join me in congratulating the Elks and wish them continued success.

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