State Sens. Scott Brown, R-Wrentham, and James Timilty, D-Walpole, thanked the volunteers, while Kathy Davis spoke on behalf of state Reps. John Lepper, R-Attleboro and Betty Poirier, R-North Attleboro.

Lisa Nelson gave thanks on behalf of U.S. Reps. James McGovern, D-Worcester, and Barney Frank, D-Worcester.

In her speech, Nelson quoted a catchy item (author unknown) comparing volunteers to some well-advertised American products, including Ford ("They have better ideas"), Coca-Cola ("They're the real thing") and Pepsi ("They've got a lot to give).

Thibodeau read a Volunteer Week proclamation from President George Bush, praising volunteerism and directing citizens to volunteer.gov on the Web to find service opportunities matching their interests.

Mayor Kevin Dumas read the texts of the proclamations and congressional Awards, which were then given to representatives of each agency as they came forward.

Kelly Fox, receiving volunteer awards on behalf of Christmas Is for Kids, could have spoken for many in attendance when she said, "This is really for the hundreds and hundreds of people who give."

Currently on display in the window of the Park Street entrance to city hall is "The Caring Tree," which was designed and painted by local artist Michael Evans. It is decorated with more than 40 creative ornaments, most heart-shaped, naming some of the volunteer agencies and organizations recognized in Wednesday's ceremony.

The 10-piece Attleboro High School Concert Band, under the direction of Kelly Bitner, provided swinging entertainment with their performance of the lively "Back Street Blues," "Zoot Suit Riot," "Jump Jive and Wail," Big Noise from Winnetka," and "Wrap it Up."

A luncheon, sponsored by Sturdy Memorial Hospital, followed at the Attleboro Elks Lodge on South Main Street.

Donna Kendall can be reached at 508-222-1617 or at donnakendall@verizon.net.