[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 43 (Thursday, April 6, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E528]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO MRS. FRANCES STURGIS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHET EDWARDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 5, 2006

  Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a great individual and 
community leader, Mrs. Frances Sturgis, and to thank her for her 
contributions to the greater Waco Community, Texas and the country. On 
April 8, 2006 Mrs. Sturgis will be joined by friends and supporters to 
celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Keep Waco Beautiful, which Mrs. 
Sturgis started in 1980.
  Mrs. Sturgis began alone working to clean up and beautify Waco. Her 
vision and work has grown the small Beautification Committee of Waco 
into Keep Waco Beautiful, one of the most successful beautification 
groups in the country. From humble beginnings Mrs. Sturgis has guided 
Keep Waco Beautiful to where it is today, over 11,000 volunteers in an 
established and well recognized institution in the Waco Community. She 
was also instrumental in the founding of Keep McLennan County Beautiful 
and has served the State of Texas as President of Keep Texas Beautiful.
  One cannot travel anywhere in Waco, Texas without seeing the legacy 
of Frances Sturgis. From Indian Springs Park and Heritage Square to 
Miss Nellie's Pretty Place and University Parks Drive the impact of her 
contributions to our community are evident. Over the past 25 years Keep 
Waco Beautiful has spearheaded over one hundred environmental and 
beautification projects in the Greater Waco community, and established 
numerous programs that have become an annual part of the lives of the 
citizens of Waco.
  Mrs. Sturgis's service has reflected her deep commitment to the 
community and has indeed made Waco, Texas a cleaner, healthier, safer 
and more beautiful place to live and raise a family.
  Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to honor Mrs. Frances Sturgis and 
offer my heartfelt appreciation for a life dedicated to service of the 
community.

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