[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 6 (Wednesday, January 20, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E51-E52]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO OPERATION BLUE RIDGE THUNDER, SAFE SURFIN' FOUNDATION, AND 
                          MOOSE INTERNATIONAL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB GOODLATTE

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 20, 2010

  Mr. GOODLATTE. Madam Speaker, I am delighted today to recognize two 
organizations in Virginia's Sixth District and a major international 
organization for a cooperative effort that is protecting our most 
innocent citizens--our children. Founded in Bedford County, Virginia 
Operation Blue Ridge Thunder has been led from its inception by Sheriff 
Mike Brown. It is recognized around the United States and 
internationally as an Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. In 
1998, Sheriff Brown started the Safe Surfin' Foundation to focus on 
Internet safety training for boys and girls through schools, law 
enforcement agencies, and civic groups. From day one, I have watched 
and supported their efforts closely. Today, I wish to extend thanks to 
Moose International for stepping forward through the Moose Lodge in 
Bedford to offer assistance in the ongoing battle to protect young 
people as they use the Internet. Moose International

[[Page E52]]

went to its 1.3 million members and explained the need to support the 
special work of Sheriff Brown and his dedicated assistants. As a 
result, Moose International has generously donated $150,000 to enable 
the Safe Surfin' Foundation to continue its outreach. In addition, 
Moose International has joined in a Safe Surfin' ``train the trainers'' 
program. This assistance is permitting even more children and their 
parents to learn the benefits of Internet safety. I highly commend 
Moose International for recognizing the benefits of the Safe Surfin' 
Foundation. Their generosity will permit the battle to continue 
nationwide against those who would prey on our children through the use 
of technology.

                          ____________________