[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11139]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




CENTRAL NEW JERSEY CELEBRATES THE ORDER OF THE ELKS NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK

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                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 2003

  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important work 
of the Central New Jersey Elks Lodges who are observing National Youth 
Week. This week is intended to honor the Junior Citizens of Central New 
Jersey with whom the Elks have worked throughout the past twelve 
months. The Elks Lodges work in conjunction with the schools, Boy 
Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts and other local youth organizations to 
promote the principles of the Order of the Elks and those of the 
collaborating organizations.
  The ideals celebrated by the Order of the Elks, as a part of National 
Youth Week, include academic achievement, volunteerism, and community 
service. Young people are recognized at dinners organized by the Elks 
Lodges to their accomplishments in these areas. Examples of events 
include, working with the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts to sponsor the Blue 
and Gold Dinner at which merit badges are distributed. The Tournament 
of Champions in conjunction with the schools celebrates the academic 
achievement of local students.
  I commend the Order of the Elks for promoting these important ideals 
in our communities. They are reinforcing and rewarding our Junior 
Citizens for displaying important community values. It is only through 
the development of a combination of scholastic excellence and a 
meaningful sense of community participation that we can build strong 
communities for tomorrow. Clearly the Order of the Elks in celebrating 
National Youth Week is doing just that.
  I ask that all the members join me in congratulating the Order of the 
Elks for their important work with youth in Central New Jersey.

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