[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 156 (Friday, October 31, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2184]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL BUCK CENTER, EUGENE, OREGON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 30, 2003

  Mr. DeFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege and honor to 
congratulate the Pearl Buck Center in Eugene, Oregon on 50 years of 
supporting families with special needs in Lane County.
  When the Pearl Buck Center opened in 1953, it was one of the only 
educational programs in Oregon providing educational services to 
children with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. 
The Pearl Buck Center has continued this tradition of leadership in the 
community, the state, and the nation, providing vocational training, 
employment, education, and case management services to people with 
developmental disabilities.
  Annually, the Pearl Buck Center provides services to over 400 
individuals with developmental disabilities and their children. Since 
it was founded, the Pearl Buck Center has helped thousands of adults 
and children meet the challenges of their disabilities and find 
opportunities to succeed in school and on the job; to succeed as 
parents and as self-sufficient individuals; and to contribute to the 
community and society.
  I would like to acknowledge the vision and dedication that 
characterizes this organization. I hope that all Americans will reflect 
on the commitment of the staff and volunteers of the Pearl Buck Center 
and on the struggles and successes of the individuals they serve.
  October 2003 has been designated as National Disability Employment 
Awareness Month. In this special month, I extend my deepest 
appreciation and thanks to the Pearl Buck Center for their efforts, 
past and present, to help individuals with disabilities more fully 
realize their abilities, potential, and independence. We are all richer 
for your half-century of service.

                          ____________________