[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 105 (Wednesday, September 8, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1531]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         A TRIBUTE TO BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF NORTH ALABAMA

                                 ______
                                 

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

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 7, 2004

  Mr. CRAMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an important group of 
individuals whose hard work and dedication has made a tremendous impact 
on the lives of numerous children throughout North Alabama.
  For over twenty years, the Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Alabama 
has provided hundreds of children with a positive influence and a 
strong foundation to help guide them through adolescence. Every 
volunteer does a great deal to improve the quality of life of these 
children and to help them develop goals and aspirations of their own. 
For its hard work and continued commitment, Big Brothers Big Sisters of 
North Alabama is recognized nationally for its performance as one of 
the best agencies in the country.
  Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 100th year of the national Big 
Brothers Big Sisters program, and on August 14th, a reunion and 
centennial picnic was held in Huntsville. This picnic was an 
opportunity for everyone involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters to come 
together, trade success stories, and relive the times each volunteer 
and child has had together.
  Mr. Speaker, I've always believed that our children should have an 
opportunity to succeed and be an active participant in our communities. 
I'm pleased that there are a large number of individuals who are 
committed to helping less fortunate children in our area. I rise today 
to commend each and every person who is involved with Big Brothers Big 
Sisters and join in their centennial celebration.

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