[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11557]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                   TRIBUTE TO FRESNO ELKS LODGE #439

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                         HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 27, 1999

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
Fresno Elks Lodge as they continue in their 100th year of service. The 
Fresno Elks Lodge was founded May 12, 1898, and has remained true to 
the mission of the ``Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks,'' 
dedicated to responsible and charitable interaction in their 
communities, and the preservation of American heritage.
  Maintaining its emphasis on charity, justice, brotherly love, and 
fidelity, the order provides millions of dollars in charitable goods 
and services. It services disabled children through the Elks Major 
Project by offering scholarships and in-home therapies. It provides 
active youth programs, veterans assistance programs, community service 
programs, drug abuse awareness education and alternative activity 
programs for inner-city youth. Also, the Elks are second to the Federal 
Government in providing scholarships to students pursuing a college 
education.
  During times of national crisis such as natural disasters or the 
bombing of the Federal building in Oklahoma, the Elks are among the 
first to respond with offers of help both in manpower and money to 
communities and their families.
  Proud of its patriotism, the order is the first to come to the 
defense of its nation and flag. From building and staffing the first 
V.A. Hospital in the United States, to helping to restore the Statue of 
Liberty, Elks continue to guide America forward.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and pay tribute to the 
Fresno Elks Lodge #439 on occasion of its 100th year of continued 
service. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing the Fresno Elks 
Lodge continued success in their quest to uphold and improve the 
American community.




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