April, 2008

PROCLAMATION 08-003

By The Franklin County Commission

Whereas:          The County of Franklin County Kansas prides itself on giving back to the community and contributing to the quality of life among our citizens; and

Whereas:          CASA of the Fourth Judicial District along with The Ottawa University Senior Core Group whose members include Jennifer Johnson, Jim Randolph, Brandon Smith and Allyson Weldy,  and who jointly represent and advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are involved in the juvenile courts; and

Whereas:          There are many children in Franklin County who suffer from some form of abuse or neglect each year; and

Whereas:          Through a national effort, members of the Franklin County community are encouraged to join together in the month of April to raise awareness for these children who are victims of abuse and neglect; and

Whereas:          Specifically, April 8^th shall be recognized as “Blue Day” in our community, where individuals may give support to the aforementioned children by dressing in the signature color blue in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness Month; and

Whereas:          This effort and promoting awareness of the neglect and abuse, will give abused and neglected children in our community, and around the country, a chance for a safe and positive future.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sue Farrell, Chair of the Franklin County Commission, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby proclaim April 2008 as

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION AND AWARENESS MONTH And April 8^th as CHILD ABUSE AWARENESS BLUE DAY in this county, and in doing so, urge all citizens to join in a national effort to raise awareness and help prevent child abuse and neglect.

/s/ Karen S Farrell, Franklin County Commission Chair