[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 21]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 29021]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES T. WALSH

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 14, 2003

  Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, each year in November American families 
across the country gather together in thanksgiving to recognize the 
variety of blessings they have received. It is fitting that we also 
choose this month to recognize the importance of adoption in our 
society.
  Currently, thousands of children across the country, freed for 
adoption, are waiting to be a part of a loving and caring family with a 
stable home and attentive parents. Many of these children have special 
physical, mental, or emotional needs and require special nurturing from 
devoted parents and families. Let it be known that their adoption by 
special people who elect to take full responsibility for their care, 
their upbringing, and their overall well-being is an important service 
not only to these children, but to our country at large.
  Adoption not only provides obvious benefits to the affected child, 
but it has proven to be one of the most rewarding experiences for many 
adoptive parents. We all benefit when a needy child is adopted.
  The County of Onondaga in New York's 25th Congressional District will 
be recognizing the importance of adoption on Friday, November 21, in 
ceremonies at Onondaga County Family Court. It is my privilege to 
recognize and thank all those families, caseworkers, and staff gathered 
for this important event who have dedicated themselves to improving the 
welfare of our community's children. It is my hope that this 
recognition further promotes the importance and benefits of adoption 
for all those involved. I thank all those responsible for organizing 
this special local observance of National Adoption Awareness Month.

                          ____________________