[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 10]
[Senate]
[Page 14076]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                         TRIBUTE TO RUTH EVANS

 Mr. BUNNING. Madam President, I wish to pay tribute to Ruth 
Evans of Henderson, KY, for her selfless devotion to Kentucky's youth. 
Ruth received the Excellence in Service award from the Kentucky Cabinet 
for Families and Children for her relentless service as a foster 
parent.
  Representing the Green River Region, Ruth Evans along with her late 
husband, George, began providing a safe home to children in need 22 
years ago and have done so without any prejudice towards the foster 
child's background, personality or disability. To date she is credited 
with raising 250 foster children in addition to the eight children of 
her own. Her love of children and her dedication to ensuring that every 
child receives the best opportunity to succeed has been the backbone of 
her service as a foster parent.
  While receiving the Excellence in Service award is a wonderful honor 
for Ruth, she says her greatest reward for her efforts are the 
occasional visits she receives from former foster children who return 
as adults with children of their own to share their lives with her. 
Some foster children come to Ruth neglected and abused but all have had 
the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe environment.
  Ruth's faith in God has been a guiding force during her years spent 
as a foster parent. As the father of nine children and the grandfather 
of many more, including some adopted children, I am inspired by Ruth's 
example. Her efforts have made all the difference in the lives of so 
many and she has helped make Kentucky a better place to live. Parents 
and foster parents alike throughout Kentucky and across America should 
emulate her example. I thank the Senate for allowing me to recognize 
Ruth and voice her praises. She is Kentucky at its finest.

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