[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 61 (Monday, April 16, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E466]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                REMEMBERING GAINESVILLE'S WALT SNELLING

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                           HON. DOUG COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 16, 2018

  Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of 
``Gainesville High School's biggest fan,'' Walt Snelling, who recently 
passed away at the age of 81.
  For over 30 years, Walt announced ball games for his alma mater, 
Gainesville High School. Having played for the Red Elephants as an 
offensive lineman, he fostered a passion for sports early in life.
  Before Walt became ``the voice of the Red Elephants,'' he graduated 
from the University of North Georgia with honors in 1959. He later 
enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as an officer for 12 years before 
returning home to manage the Gainesville Parks and Recreation 
Department.
  The children in the community were the ones who inspired him to 
participate in the local sports scene. He proudly announced games from 
the loud speaker because he wanted each player to hear his or her name 
called and understand how special they are.
  Walt's memory will endure in the hearts of Gainesville residents. I 
stand with many others today to mourn the loss of this legend, and I 
ask us all to remember the Snelling family in the weeks ahead.

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