[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 91 (Thursday, June 23, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1186]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING ROBERT AND ELEANOR HOLMES FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING KINDNESS AND 
  GENEROSITY IN THE ADOPTION AND PARENTING OF THEIR 5 GREAT GRANDSONS.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. RICHARD L. HANNA

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 23, 2011

  Mr. HANNA. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to recognize Robert and 
Eleanor Holmes, retired couple in their 70's who adopted and are 
raising their five great-grandchildren. On September 15, 2006, a Family 
Court judge declared the boys' home life unsuitable, yet despite their 
retirement, Robert and Eleanor volunteered to nurture and provide for 
these children. Mr. and Mrs. Holmes provide their great-grandchildren 
with an environment that includes love, support, direction and 
discipline.
  Robert formerly worked as a drug educational counselor for the Utica 
and Syracuse schools systems. Much of his work involved motivational 
speeches encouraging students to make safe, healthy choices, establish 
strong self-esteem and model citizenship values--all of which he has 
now passed on to his great-grandchildren.
  Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Holmes, these brothers were able to transition 
together into a safe and happy family environment. It is truly 
exceptional for the boys to have two positive role models in their 
lives. Each of the five boys have become excellent students. They 
participate in athletics and are well-known for being polite and 
courteous. A true happy family, Robert and Eleanor can be seen cheering 
for the boys at almost every one of their sporting events.
  Exemplary citizens such as Robert and Eleanor Holmes should be 
appreciated and acknowledged by our society. It is fitting that the 
Family Nurturing Center of CNY, Inc. has selected the Holmes as its 
Family of the Year. There is no greater gift than that of a stable and 
safe home, which is the gateway to a bright future. Robert and Eleanor 
Holmes are ideal Americans whose story should be celebrated. Mr. 
Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in honoring Robert and Eleanor 
Holmes for their exceptional generosity and kindness.

                          ____________________