[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 123 (Tuesday, September 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1741]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO KATHLEEN A. WELLS UPON HER RETIREMENT FROM CRISIS SERVICES 
                            OF NORTH ALABAMA

                                 ______
                                 

                    HON. ROBERT E. (BUD) CRAMER, JR.

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 9, 2003

  Mr. CRAMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kathy Wells who was 
instrumental in turning HOPE Place from a shelter for victims of 
physical and sexual abuse, to a nationally known comprehensive services 
agency providing services, support, and education to individuals and 
families in crisis. Today, she is moving on from her position as 
Executive Director of Crisis Services of North Alabama for an 
opportunity to represent victims of domestic violence for the entire 
State of Alabama.
  Kathy Wells has been involved in helping domestic violence victims 
for well over 20 years. Her work began as a volunteer and in 1981 she 
was a leading force in the development of HOPE Place as a domestic 
violence shelter. HOPE Place, which is now known as Crisis Services of 
North Alabama, is one of Huntsville's brightest stars and assets. 
Kathy's dedication and work effort are chiefly responsible for its 
success.
  Ms. Wells is well-known and respected for her tireless work on 
legislation and advocacy for victims of domestic violence. Her 
extensive background and knowledge has led to many opportunities for 
her to testify as an expert witness at several trials, an overwhelming 
number of invitations to conduct training sessions, appointments by 
three governors to sit on five statewide domestic violence committees, 
and requests to be the keynote speaker at many seminars and forums.
  Mr. Speaker, today Kathy Wells's colleagues, friends and family are 
gathered in Huntsville, Alabama, to give her thanks and to congratulate 
her on her future endeavors. Since I cannot be there, I want to take 
this opportunity to honor her on behalf of the people of North Alabama, 
especially those who have regained confidence and a sense of self-worth 
because of Kathy's dedication and hard work.

                          ____________________