[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 1]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 1260]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE ``GEMS OF 26'' MAINE MILITARY PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 12, 2013

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cyndi Robbins and the 
``Gems of 26'' for their outstanding efforts to honor our nation's 
veterans. Over the last three years, Cyndi Robbins and the staff of the 
Poland Spring Inn welcomed more than 600 members of military and 
veteran families for short getaways in scenic Western Maine.
  Thanks to a unique partnership formed between a group of unique sites 
along Route 26 called the ``Gems of 26,'' military and veteran families 
have been treated to lodging, meals, boat rentals, and free access to a 
variety of activities and historic sites in Maine's western mountains.
  In addition to the Poland Spring Resort, the generous ``Gems of 26,'' 
include the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray, the Sabbathday Lake Shaker 
Village in New Gloucester, the Poland Spring Preservation Society in 
Poland Spring, and the grounds of the McLaughlin Garden in South Paris. 
The Maine Military and Community network has also played an important 
role in helping eligible families participate in the program.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Cyndi Robbins, the Poland 
Spring Resort, and these historic Maine attractions for their 
commitment to serving our veteran and military families.

                          ____________________