[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 129 (Wednesday, November 15, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2037-E2038]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE JOHN G. SHEDD AQUARIUM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANNY K. DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 15, 2006

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the John G. 
Shedd Aquarium, the 2006 recipient of the National Award for Museum and 
Library Services. It comes as no surprise to me that this superior 
institution was selected as the recipient of this award. The Shedd 
Aquarium has served not only Chicago, but the entire Nation, for well 
over 75 years. It very much deserves our admiration and respect.
  The John G. Shedd Aquarium is a world class institution that enjoys a 
national reputation for excellence. The Shedd Aquarium is truly the 
world's aquarium. In addition to being the largest indoor aquarium in 
the world, the Shedd was one of the first aquariums to offer an 
education program. Through its unique ability to make education fun, 
the Shedd has touched the lives of the more than 2 million of people 
who walk through its doors every year.
  The John G. Shedd Aquarium is so much more than a museum; the 
scientists and staff are leaders throughout the world in research and 
conservation. The research initiatives that

[[Page E2038]]

the Shedd undertakes are vital to understanding and preserving our 
environment, especially in the Chicago area.
  As a Chicagoan, I am proud to have the Shedd Aquarium located in my 
congressional district. The Shedd's genuine commitment to serving the 
greater Chicagoland community has for decades made it one of the most 
distinguished non-profits in our area. In particular, the Shedd 
demonstrates an exceptional commitment to the community in Chicago 
through education programs and other service-related initiatives. One 
of its most important projects is its participation in the Great Lakes 
Forever initiative. Roughly 37 million people depend on the Great Lakes 
for drinking water, recreation, and livelihood. The Shedd is committed 
to ensuring that the Great Lakes are healthy and continue to serve 
those around them for centuries to come.
  Clearly, the Shedd understands its role as a community leader and 
gives a great deal back to the people of Chicago. Mr. Speaker, as 
Gifford Pinchot once said of conservation, ``Conservation means the 
wise use of the earth and its resources for the lasting good of men.'' 
Conservation is paramount at the Shedd Aquarium, and every operation is 
carried out to reflect this ideal; it is truly working for the lasting 
good of man. Chicago and its citizens are privileged to call its city 
the home of the John G. Shedd Aquarium. The Shedd Aquarium works 
tirelessly to give back to the community, including both Chicago and 
the Nation. Again, it is my great honor to announce that the John G. 
Shedd Aquarium is the 2006 recipient of the National Award for Museum 
and Library Services.

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