[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 108 (Monday, July 30, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E1467]]



                    TRIBUTE TO MR. ROBERT L. WILSON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JACK QUINN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 30, 2001

  Mr. QUINN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Mr. Robert L. 
Wilson, founder of Every Person Influences Children (EPIC).
  Mr. Wilson founded EPIC in 1980, following the tragic death of his 
wife, Linda in 1977. Mrs. Wilson was murdered by a troubled 15-year-old 
boy that the Wilson family had befriended. EPIC was founded to work 
with youth to help ensure that this type of tragedy would not be 
repeated.
  Despite its modest beginnings, the EPIC organization has emerged as 
one of our Nation's most successful parent/children's programs. The 
organization is devoted to helping children grow up to become 
responsible adults, and helps parents and teachers work more 
effectively with children, influence them in positive ways and guide 
them toward responsible, safe decision-making. In recognition of its 
worthy goals and many successes, our federal government has committed 
millions in grants to EPIC.
  The overwhelming success of EPIC, its tremendous growth, and the 
strong impact it has had in our Western New York community is testimony 
to Mr. Wilson's leadership, commitment and integrity. I am truly 
thankful for his strong example of service.
  As a community, our chief concern must always be our children. Mr. 
Wilson's focus on helping children become responsible adults must 
continue to be one of our highest priorities. I will continue to fight 
for this excellent program, and would encourage my colleagues to join 
with me in this effort.
  EPIC is an outstanding program that helps kids everyday. Now, it is 
also a lasting legacy to a man whose vision and work inspires us all.
  Mr. Speaker, today I join with the Western New York community, and 
communities all across America to honor Mr. Robert L. Wilson for his 
dedicated service and leadership. Mr. Wilson is survived by his wife, 
Sarah; four daughters, Linda Stephenson, Terry Vaughan, Margaret Kerr 
and Hope Hawkins; a sister, Margaret Dodd; fifteen grandchildren; and 
five great-grandchildren. I would like to convey to his family my 
deepest sympathies, and ask my colleagues in the House of 
Representatives to join with me in a moment of silence.

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