Paul Gillmor

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding event taking place in my district in Northwest Ohio. Saturday, August 2, 2003, people from across Ohio's Fifth Congressional District will gather in Fremont to celebrate Farmworker Appreciation Day. There is no question that farming is the backbone of our nation. From the earliest days of our nation's history, hardworking men and women have taken to the fields to plant and harvest crops and raise livestock in order to feed their families, their neighbors, and their fellow countrymen. Mr. Speaker, farming is an honorable profession that takes a great deal of skill, patience, and hard work. Those hardworking men and women who work on our nation's farms deserve much credit for helping to make our lands productive and fruitful. Through the arduous process of working and cultivating the soil, these farmworkers help prepare the ground, plant the crops, and harvest the food we need to live. The lifestyle of a farmworker is tough. Like the farmer, the farmworker must endure the ever-changing seasons from the harshest winters to sun drying, waterless droughts to rain-soaked days that lead to disastrous floods. farmworkers watch the fields as thunderous storms race across them damaging the crops from which they make their living. However, through it all, farmworkers continue to the fields to do their work. Mr. Speaker, agriculture is vitally important to the Fifth District of Ohio as we are home to nineteen percent of Ohio's farmland. We know that the economy of our part of Ohio depends on farming. The prosperity of my district is dependent in large part upon the tireless efforts of the farmworkers who bring in the crops. I can think of no better way to celebrate the contributions of these individuals than to take part in farmworker Appreciation Day. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to farmworkers by helping me proclaim August 2, 2003 as farmworker Appreciation Day. We thank them for all they have done and wish them the very best for the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding woman, and friend, Mrs. Dotty Aldrich, on the momentous occasion of her 80th birthday. An Old Fort citizen, Dotty possesses a vast amount of civic pride and dedication to societal causes. After raising her seven children, Dotty decided to return to school and earn her B.A. in Education from Defiance College. After graduating, Dotty went on to receive her Masters Degree in Education from Bowling Green State University. Dotty is a retired school teacher who taught masterfully for numerous years. In addition to raising her children, Dotty has been a mother to many foster children. Today Dotty enjoys volunteering in various sectors of her community, including nursing homes and the Church. Furthermore, Dotty is an active member in such organizations as the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Association for Professional College Women. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Dotty Aldrich. Our communities are served well by having such honorable and selfless citizens, like Dotty, who care about the well being of their communities. We wish Dotty all the best as we pay tribute to one of Ohio's finest citizens.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding gentleman, Mr. Ivan Dangler, from Ohio. After 42 years of service, Mr. Dangler has decided to retire as Principal at Green Springs Elementary School. He had a distinguished career in education, serving as teacher, principal, and superintendent. After finishing his doctorate at the University of Toledo, he served as interim principal at the junior high school in Clyde. He has helped make the schools friendly, caring places for teachers and students. He has been known to recognize teachers' accomplishments during morning announcements and give students hugs or words of encouragement when they were feeling down. Mr. Dangler is planning to move to Columbus, Ohio to work as a mentor with the Ohio Principals Association. He will help new principals ``get the kinks out before they get in trouble.'' Mr. Dangler also plans to spend more time on woodworking. He made bookcases, storage units, and picture frames for the teachers, in addition to the check-out unit in the library. Ivan will leave big shoes to fill in the arena of education. His wisdom, honesty and forthrightness are attributes to which all people should aspire. He has set an example for everyone on how to live a life of service, putting the greater interests of the community before one's own. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Mr. Ivan Dangler, a wonderful gentleman who for 42 years has dedicated himself to serving the students and teachers of Ohio. We all congratulate Mr. Dangler and wish him, his family, and his friends all the best as we pay tribute to one of our finest citizens.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 1472.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding organization in Ohio. Esperanza, Ohio's only non-profit association dedicated to the promotion and advancement of education for Hispanics, has been serving the Hispanic community in Northeastern Ohio since 1983. Over the duration of the last twenty years, Esperanza has become a vital asset to the Hispanic population in Ohio, aiding thousands of Hispanic youth with educational programming, tutoring, mentoring, college and career guidance, and scholarship opportunities for students pursuing higher educational opportunities. Esperanza conducts programs for Cleveland youth in elementary, middle and high school. Furthermore, Esperanza offers a complimentary, instructional computer program to neighborhood residents. The fully equipped Community Technology Center provides individualized training sessions in keyboarding, data entry, Microsoft Office, Windows, and the Internet to Hispanics of all ages. Esperanza's competitive scholarship program offers an annual process that is available to all Hispanic students residing in Northeastern Ohio. In 2002, with the aid of various corporations, educational institutions and individual donors, Esperanza was able to reward forty- seven Hispanic students with scholarships at the annual Fiesta of Hope Scholarship Luncheon. NASA Glenn Research Center and Dr. Michael Schwartz, President of Cleveland State University, will co-chair this year's Fiesta of Hope Scholarship Luncheon. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Esperanza on occasion of the 20th anniversary celebration. Our communities are served well by having such honorable and philanthropic organizations, like Esperanza, who genuinely care about the well-being of Northeastern Ohio's Hispanic community.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding Ohio corporation, Spangler Candy Company, and the 50th anniversary celebration of the Spangler Dum Dum Pop. Considered the largest selling penny pop in the Midwest, the Dum Dum Pop came to Bryan, Ohio in the spring of 1953, when Spangler purchased the machinery, equipment and trade name from the Akron Candy Company of Bellevue, Ohio. By 1956, the Dum Dum Pop was a nationally acclaimed candy. Mr. Speaker, on June 4, 1953, Bryan celebrated the acquisition of the Dum Dum Pop with a declared ``Dum Dum Day.'' On this special occasion, thousands of free lollipops were distributed to children and families gathered on the front lawn of the Spangler plant. In August 1957, Spangler announced its ``largest production day ever'' of 1,545,750 Dum Dum Pops. In 1959, Spangler introduced a new program, encouraging children to save their Dum Dum wrappers and send them in with money for prizes. Today, the ``save wraps'' continues to function in a modified version. By 1979, Spangler was producing 2.8 million Dum Dum Pops on a daily basis. By 1989, Dum Dums were the third largest selling lollipop in the country. During the summer of 2001, a warehouse in Archbold, Ohio burned to the ground, costing Spangler more than 110,000 cases of Dum Dum Pops ready for shipment. In the months following the devastating fire, Spangler employees worked long hours to replace the loss, producing approximately 10 million Dum Dum Pops a day. After the Archbold fire, Spangler workers proved their dedication to the industry of Dum Dum Pops in their efforts to compensate for the lost products. Demonstrating pride and civic duty, factory workers and distributors proved their allegiance to Spangler and Dum Dum Pop consumers. Today, Spangler generates about 8 million Dum Dum Pops each day, distributing cases of lollipops world-wide. Available in a variety of packaging sizes, ranging from 7 ounces to bulk cases of more than 2,000-count, consumers can purchase Dum Dums in food, drug, and mass market retail stores, as well as on the Spangler Candy Co. website. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Spangler Candy Co. In producing Dum Dum Pops', the Spangler Candy Co. has provided jobs and a positive work environment not only for the Bryan community, but for members of communities nationwide. We wish Spangler Candy Co. all the best as we acknowledge one of our State's finest companies and all of their accomplishments.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young woman from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Alisa L. Fellhauer of Port Clinton, OH, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, Alisa's offer of appointment poises her to attend the United States Air Force Academy with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our Nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Alisa brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of Air Force Academy cadets. While attending Port Clinton High School, Port Clinton, OH, Alisa has attained a grade point average of 3.88, which places her thirteenth in her class of one hundred sixty one students. During her time at Port Clinton High School, Alisa has received several commendations for her superior scholastic efforts. During her first year, she received the Kiwanis Scholar Athlete Award. Her second year was marked by her being again awarded the Kiwanis Scholar Athlete Award as well as being inducted into the National Honor Society. Alisa went on in her senior year to maintain her role in the National Honor Society as well being selected for participation in a highly selective biology program. Outside the classroom, Alisa has distinguished herself as an excellent student-athlete and dedicated citizen of Port Clinton. On the fields of friendly strife, Alisa has participated in Varsity Cross County, Varsity Basketball, and Varsity Softball. She is a three time Cross Country letter recipient and served as the Team Captain her senior year. In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Alisa is an active member in her community participating in Key Club, Future Professionals in Medicine, National Honor Society, Relay for Life, and the Buckeye Girl's State. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Alisa L. Fellhauer. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Alisa will do very well during her career at Air Force and I wish her the very best in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to the City of Bellevue. This City in my congressional district was first settled in 1815. It is generally acknowledged that Mark Hopkins was its first resident, building a log cabin on East Main Street in 1816. The site is presently marked with a plaque first erected in 1915. Bellevue was known as Amsden's Corners after a prominent early settler, Thomas Amsden, who traded with the Indians and opened a general store at the site of present day City Hall. Later in the 1830's, the City was known as York Roads and in 1839 it was named Bellevue in honor of James H. Belle, an engineer who surveyed the first railroad through the town. The first major road was constructed in 1823, which began at the town square and terminated at the Maumee River in Perrysburg. In 1839, the first railroad from Sandusky to Bellevue was completed and this began Bellevue's long history as a railroad center. Bellevue was incorporated as a village in 1851 with a population of 300 and incorporated as a city in 1912. Early commerce and industry consisted of a sawmill, tannery, cabinet shop, cooperage, wagon shop, farm products, four mill, railroad, and Mill Pond liquor distillery. The City's industrial base has developed steadily and is well diversified. Products range from aluminum windows and doors and heating/air conditioning equipment, to metal stamping, plastics and commercial balers. Several subdivisions have been completed recently, and an additional allotment of apartments and single family dwellings are also in the works. Area residents are served by an active central city business district. Recreational opportunities include numerous parks, a community center, golf course, as well as water recreation associated with Lake Erie, just 15 miles north. Local educational facilities and programs include five elementary, one junior high, and one senior high school. This is supplemented by participation in the EHOVE vocational school district. Higher education is available at two branch universities, a technical college, three nursing schools, and two four-year colleges within 25 miles. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the City of Bellevue on the occasion of it Sesquicentennial celebration. I am proud to offer these sentiments today properly documenting this event in the record of the 108th Congress.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 162, a resolution honoring the City of Dayton, Ohio for its celebration of Wilbur and Orville Wright's first flight in 1902. This important resolution is supported by the entire Ohio delegation. From military aircraft to NASA shuttles, these brothers are responsible for the foundation of the modern aviation industry and they deserve our gratitude. In their hometown of Dayton, the brothers worked in a bicycle shop, which would become their aviation laboratory. Although they were not the first to conceive a fixed-wing aircraft, their tinkering eventually led them to design the first craft that could be controlled. Aircraft, robots and even submarines rely upon the principles the brothers developed to control yaw, pitch and roll. Their innovations have allowed our world to become connected by rapid air travel. Today, the City of Dayton, and the State of Ohio, remain an important aviation center, with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and NASA facilities Glenn and Plum Brook Station near my district. I want to thank my colleague for introducing this important resolution and the City of Dayton. MR. TURNER of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Cory M. Sinning of Van Wert, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, Cory's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Cory brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Van Wert High School, Van Wert, Ohio, Cory has attained a grade point average of 3.81, which places him twenty of one hundred sixty-nine students. During his time at Van Wert High School, Cory has received several commendations for his superior scholastic efforts. Cory's accomplishments include being a four year Renaissance Card Holder and a member of the National Honor Society. Outside the classroom, Cory has distinguished himself as an excellent athlete. On the fields of friendly strife, Cory participated in Basketball where he earned his Varsity Letter and served as a team captain for three years. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Cory proved himself a dedicated citizen of Van Wert through dedicating time to volunteer for Elementary Basketball Camps, Junior High Basketball Camps, YMCA, and Served as a Mentor for At-Risk Students. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Cory M. Sinning. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Cory will do very well during his career at United States Military Academy and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Geoffrey J. Wightman of Amherst, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, Geoffrey's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Geoffrey brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Firelands High School, Oberlin-Henrietta Township, Ohio, Geoffrey has attained a grade point average of 3.6, which places him eighteenth in his class of one hundred fifty-four students. During his time at Firelands High School, Geoffrey has received several commendations for his superior scholastic efforts. Nathan's accomplishments include being on the honor role, being inducted into the National Honor Society, serving as the Historian in the National Honor Society, and First Place in the Science Fair in the field of Engineering. Outside the classroom, Geoffrey has distinguished himself as an excellent musician, athlete and dedicated citizen of Amherst. On the fields of friendly strife, Geoffrey participated in Football, Wrestling in which he is a three year letter winner, cross country, and Track where he was again a three year letter winner. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Geoffrey is an active member in his community participating in the Boy Scouts of America where he became an Eagle Scout, he has remained active in his Church, and an active member of North Coast Pipe Band, Buckeye Boys State, and a member of the Firelands High School class council. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Geoffrey J. Wightman. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Geoffrey will do very well during his career at United States Military Academy and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young woman from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Alisa L. Fellhauer of Port Clinton, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, Alisa's offer of appointment poises her to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our Nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Alisa brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of Air Force Academy cadets. While attending the Port Clinton High School, Port Clinton, Ohio, Alisa has attained a grade point average of 3.88, which places her 13th in her class of 161 students. During her time at Port Clinton High School, Alisa has received several commendations for her superior scholastic efforts. During her first year, she received the Kiwanis Scholar Athlete Award. Her second year was marked by her being again awarded the Kiwanis Scholar Athlete Award as well as being inducted into the National Honor Society. Alisa went on in her senior year to maintain her role in the National Honor Society as well being selected for participation in a highly selective biology program. Outside the classroom, Alisa has distinguished herself as an excellent student-athlete and dedicated citizen of Port Clinton. On the fields of friendly strife, Alisa has participated in Varsity Cross Country, Varsity Basketball, and Varsity Softball. She is a three times Cross Country letter winner and served as the Team Captain her senior year. In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Alisa is an active member in her community participating in Key Club, Future Professionals in Medicine, National Honor Society, Relay for Life, and the Buckeye Girl's State. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Alisa L. Fellhauer. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Alisa will do very well during her career at Air Force and I wish her the very best in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young woman from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Jennifer L. Lewis of Sandusky, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, Jennifer's offer of appointment poises her to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our Nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertaking of their lives. Jennifer brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Perkins High School, Sandusky, Ohio, Jennifer has attained a grade point average of 4.248, which places her first in her class of 152 students. During her time at Perkins High School, Jennifer has received several commendations for her superior scholastic efforts. Jennifer's accomplishments include being on the honor roll for all four years, placing third of fifty-four in the Greater Toledo Council of Teachers of Mathematics Integrated Math I exam and eighteenth of two hundred and four in the Greater Toledo Council of Teachers of Mathematics Geometry Exam. Outside the classroom, Jennifer has distinguished herself as an excellent musician, athlete and dedicated citizen of Sandusky. On the fields of friendly strife, Jennifer participated in Track and Karate. In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Jennifer is an active member in her community participating in Huron Township Conservation Club. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Jennifer L. Lewis. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Jennifer will do very well during her career at the United States Military Academy and I wish her the very best in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Aaron M. Wurst of Ottoville, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, Aaron's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our Nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Aaron brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Ottoville High School, Ottoville, Ohio, Aaron has attained a grade point average of 4.0. During his time at Ottoville High School, Aaron has received several commendations for his superior scholastic efforts. Aaron's accomplishments include Academic Letters, being awarded the Voice of Democracy School winner, was selected to participate in several highly selective mathematics competitions, as well as being inducted into the National Honor Society. Outside the classroom, Aaron has distinguished himself as an excellent athlete. On the fields of friendly strife, Aaron participated in Cross Country where he earned his Varsity Letter, Basketball, and Track. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Aaron is an active member in the student council where he served as his Class President and the drama club. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Aaron M. Wurst. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Aaron will do very well during his career at the United States Military Academy and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Nathan A. Stein of Sandusky, Ohio has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Naval Academy. Mr. Speaker, Nathan's offer an appointment poises him to attend the United States Naval Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Nathan brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of Navy midshipmen. While attending Perkins High School, Sandusky, Ohio, Nathan has attained a grade point average of 4.0, which places him eleventh in his class of 58 students. During his time at Sandusky St. Mary Central Catholic High School, Nathan has received several commendations for his superior scholastic efforts. Nathan's accomplishments include being in the honor roll, two year academic letterman, and two years of being named Who's Who in American High School Students. Outside the classroom, Nathan has distinguished himself as an excellent musician, athlete and dedicated citizen of Sandusky. On the fields of friendly strife, Nathan participated in Football becoming a team captain his senior year and Basketball. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Nathan is an active member in his community participating in the Environment Club, volunteering for service in his local Library, and participating in community musicals. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Nathan A. Stein. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Nathan will do very well during his career at United States Naval Academy and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Alexander M. Huber of Milan, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Mr. Speaker, Alexander's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2007. Attending one of our Nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. Alexander brings a special mix of leadership, service, dedication to the incoming class of Merchant Marine Academy cadets. While attending Edison High School, Milan, Ohio, Alexander has attained a grade point average of 3.942 which places him 7th in his class of 129 students. During his time at Edison High School, Alexander has received several commendations for his superior scholastic efforts. Alexander's accomplishments include being on the honor roll for all four years, being awarded the Student of the Quarter for Business, recipient of the Mathematics Award, student of the quarter award for Science, and recipient of the Scholarship Pin. Aside from his accomplishments Alexander also participated in the National Honor Society, the Math Club, and the Spanish Club. Outside the classroom, Alexander has distinguished himself as an excellent student-athlete and dedicated citizen of Milan. On the fields of friendly strife, Alexander has participated in Soccer, Tennis, and Weight Lifting. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Alexander is an active member in his community participating in National Youth Leadership Conference and Boys State. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Alexander M. Huber. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Alexander will do very well during his career at United States Merchant Marine Academy and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Army Colonel Danny P. Price. Given the current international environment, it is fitting that this chamber honors a man of Colonel Price's character. Colonel Price entered the Army on September 14, 1972. He served two years during his first tour as an enlisted administrative specialist. He re-entered the Army in 1977 and received his commission from the United States Army Officer Candidate School in 1978. His military education includes the U.S. Army Signal Officer Basic Communications Course, the U.S. Army Field Artillery Basic Communications Staff Officer Course, the U.S. Marine Corps Advanced Communications Officer Course, the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, the U.S. Army Force Management School, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Morehead State University (Kentucky), a Master of Education degree from the University of South Carolina, and a Master of Science degree from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. Colonel Price has served in a variety of command and staff positions. He was a field artillery signal officer, platoon leader, and signal battalion staff officer in the 82nd Airborne Division from 1978 to 1982. From 1983 to 1986, he served in the 8th Mechanized Infantry Division, Bad Kreuznach, Germany, where he was a signal battalion staff officer and Commander, Company A, 8th Signal Battalion. His next assignment was at the United States Military Academy where he served as a company and battalion tactical officer from 1987 to 1990. He then served as the battalion executive officer with the 50th Signal Battalion and the 35th Signal Brigade (logistics officer) and S3 (operations officer). He next served as an operations analyst in the Commander-in-Chief Initiatives Group, U.S. Forces Korea from 1994 to 1995. He then commanded the 501st Signal Battalion, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) from 1995 to 1997. The assignment was followed by his most recent assignments--two tours in the Pentagon. First, as a Systems Integrator in the Force Development Division of the U.S. Army Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, from 1997 to 1998; and second, as a Senior Staff Analyst in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Command and Control, Communications, and Intelligence. He served in this position from June 1999 and will retire from there in June 2003. His awards and decorations include: the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with one sliver oak leaf cluster and two bronze oak leaf clusters, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Secretary of Defense Staff Qualification Badge, the Army Staff Qualification Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Master Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Colonel Danny Price. Our citizens are served well by having such honorable and selfless soldiers, like Colonel Price, who care about their well being and stability. We wish Colonel Price, his wife, Jill, and their family all the best as we pay tribute to one of our nation's finest soldiers. May he now enjoy the freedom he so ably defended

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the members of the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) for committing to meet an increased paper recovery goal by the year 2012. This effort illustrates the paper industry's understanding of our natural resources and its desire to safeguard the environment by decreasing the amount of paper that is sent to our nation's landfills. In 2000, 232 million tons of solid waste was produced in the United States, taxing our landfills, peoples' pocketbooks, and our environment. In order to sustain economic growth and simultaneously promote environmental protection, some hard choices needed to be made-- and were. Since 1987, paper recovery has increased 97 percent. This dramatic increase can be traced to an industry set goal on paper recovery, as well as the investment of more than $15 billion in new equipment. With the help of action-oriented communities across the country, AF&PA and its member companies have more than exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's target of 35 percent recycling by 2005 as part of its ``Resource Conservation Challenge.'' Achieving higher levels than were they are now will not be easy, but it is important since every bit counts. That is why I am pleased that AF&PA is reaching out to form partnerships with the Environmental Protection Agency, various cities and office building managers across the country to help increase public awareness about the benefits of recovering paper for recycling. I hope that this public-private partnership will raise awareness and encourage larger, future voluntary recycling efforts in paper recovery. Although I acknowledge progress has been made in paper recycling, more can and should be done. As demand for recovered fiber continues to grow for both domestic and export markets, additional recovered fiber supply will be needed--of note, more than 38 percent of the industry's raw material comes from recovered fiber. We should ensure that all citizens continue to play a meaningful role in safeguarding the environment, encouraging fiber and sustaining economic growth, and preserving our natural resources through recycling used paper. Environmental progress requires that the private sector and government work together to get things done and these efforts provide an opportunity for more Americans to recycle in their homes, offices and schools. To the end that good progress has been made, I applaud AF&PA, but am reminded that success is a continual forward journey. Recovering more fiber for recycling at U.S. paper mills through recycling challenges, model programs and community partnerships helps ensure that the paper industry will continue to be a strong participant in the American economy, a responsible steward of the environment and a leader in efforts to utilize all available resources in the production of recycled content products. For that we should all be thankful.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to be here to speak on behalf of this legislation to honor Tony Hall. I have known Tony for probably 30 years. I served with him for a long time in the State senate in Ohio and had the opportunity to serve with him in the United States Congress. Tony made a mark, both nationally and internationally, as a leader in the fight against hunger. I most recently had the opportunity to meet with him in his new position as Ambassador in Rome. This is an honor very well deserved, and I am pleased to speak in support of the bill.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I am very pleased to rise and ask my colleagues to support H.R. 985, which would duly honor a man who was my predecessor in this body, Congressman Del Latta. Del served for 30 years in this Chamber, and it was 30 years of distinguished service to the people of the fifth district of Ohio. It designates the post office at 111 West Washington Street in Bowling Green as the Delbert L. Latta Post Office building, and I think it is particularly appropriate, because Del spent a great deal of time in that building. During most of his career in Congress, his congressional office was located there. He was born in Weston, Ohio, in Wood County. He attended Findlay College and Ohio Northern University; and before World War II, from 1938 to 1941, he served in the Ohio National Guard and in the U.S. Army. He was in the Marine Corps Reserve from 1942 to 1943. He was admitted to practice law in 1944. He served later in the Ohio senate for three terms, from 1953 to 1958. After some gap in service, I had the privilege of also representing that State senate district. He was elected to the 86th Congress in November 1958. During his tenure, he had a number of very important assignments: the Committee on Rules; the Committee on the Budget, where he was ranking minority member; and he also served three terms on the House Committee on Agriculture. He was very well known as the cosponsor of the Graham- Latta bill, which was a major tax cut bill in the Reagan administration. And after deciding he would not run for reelection in 1988, he returned to his home in Bowling Green, and Del remains active in the community today. Among his achievements in public service are his involvement in the Watergate hearings and his role as dean of the Ohio delegation. The character, hard work, and the commitment he brought to public life had a significant effect on our State and on our Nation's public policy, and his accomplishments should not go unnoticed. So I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this important legislation.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize my constituent, Nathan A. Laudick of Van Wert, Ohio, who recently accepted his appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Nathan will soon graduate from Van Wert High School. During his high school career, he has maintained a high grade point average. He is an accomplished athlete, earning varsity letters in football, and track and field. And, he has clearly demonstrated his leadership ability, serving as a class officer and student body officer. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Nathan Laudick can be very proud of his many accomplishments. He is a credit to his family, his school, and his community. By accepting his appointment, Nathan is accepting a unique challenge. The Academy is the pinnacle of leadership development for the United States Army. As a member of the United States Corps of Cadets, he will face a most demanding academic curriculum and physical regimen. He will live, study and prepare in an environment where strong leadership thrives, individual achievement is expected, and personal integrity is demanded. Mr. Speaker, General John W. Vessey, Jr. once wrote, ``The Nation's ability to remain free and at peace depends in no small measure on whether we will continue to inspire our youth to serve.'' I am confident that Nathan Laudick has the character and ability to excel at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him well as he begins his very important service to our nation.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize my constituent, Gregory J.S. Trumble of Tiffin, Ohio, who recently accepted his appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Greg will soon graduate from Columbian High School. During his high school career, he has maintained a 3.6 grade point average. He is an accomplished athlete, earning varsity letters and serving as Captain of the track and field team and the cross country team. And, he has clearly demonstrated his leadership ability, having served as class president and participated in numerous activities. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Gregory Trumble can be very proud of his many accomplishments. He is a credit to his family, his school, and his community. By accepting his appointment, Greg is accepting a unique challenge. The Academy is the pinnacle of leadership development for the United States Air Force. As a member of the Cadet Air Wing, he will face a most demanding academic curriculum and physical regimen. He will live, study and prepare in an environment where strong leadership thrives, individual achievement is expected, and personal integrity is demanded. Mr. Speaker, General John W. Vessey, Jr. once wrote, ``The Nation's ability to remain free and at peace depends in no small measure on whether we will continue to inspire our youth to serve.'' I am confident that Gregory Trumble has the character and ability to excel at the U.S. Air Force Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him well as he begins his very important service to our Nation.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize my constituent, Zachary G. Foster of Tiffin, Ohio, who recently accepted his appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Zachary will soon graduate from Columbian High School. During his high school career, he has maintained a 3.8 grade point average. He is an accomplished athlete, earning varsity letters in soccer and swimming. And, he has clearly demonstrated his leadership ability, actively participating in Key Club, Knowledge Master Open and the National Honor Society. Zachary Foster can be very proud of his many accomplishments. He is a credit to his family, his school, and his community. By accepting his appointment, Zachary is accepting a unique challenge. The Academy is the pinnacle of leadership development for the United States Army. As a member of the United States Corps of Cadets, he will face a most demanding academic curriculum and physical regimen. He will live, study and prepare in an environment where strong leadership thrives, individual achievement is expected, and personal integrity is demanded. Mr. Speaker, General John W. Vessey, Jr. once wrote, ``The Nation's ability to remain free and at peace depends in no small measure on whether we will continue to inspire our youth to serve.'' I am confident that Zachary Foster has the character and ability to excel at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him well as he begins his very important service to our nation.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize my constituent, Anthony K. Sitter of Bowling Green, OH, who recently accepted his appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Anthony will soon graduate from Bowling Green High School. During his high school career, he has maintained a 3.9 grade point average. He is an accomplished athlete, earning multiple varsity letters in swimming. And, he has demonstrated his strong leadership ability, serving as class president and as a delegate to Buckeye Boys State. He is a member of the National Honor Society. Anthony Sitter can be very proud of his many accomplishments. He is a credit to his family, his school, and his community. By accepting his appointment, Anthony is accepting a unique challenge. The Academy is the pinnacle of leadership development for the United States Navy. As a member of the U.S. Brigade of Midshipmen, he will face a most demanding academic curriculum and physical regimen. He will live, study and prepare in an environment where strong leadership thrives, individual achievement is expected, and personal integrity is demanded. Mr. Speaker, General John W. Vessey, Jr. once wrote, ``The Nation's ability to remain free and at peace depends in no small measure on whether we will continue to inspire our youth to serve.'' I am confident that Anthony Sitter has the character and ability to excel at the U.S. Naval Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him well as he begins his very important service to our Nation.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today concerning the Federal Communications Commission's, FCC, pending Triennial Review proceedings with respect to its potential effects on the health of the telecommunications industry. There is no question that this sector is experiencing a decline in business and investment. Since the year 2000, more than 600,000 telecommunications-related jobs have been lost. Telephone companies have significantly reduced their capital spending. In fact, incumbent local telephone companies are hesitant to invest in broadband deployment due to regulatory uncertainty. With the lack of new infrastructure, equipment suppliers suffer, as do service providers and their employees, further stunting research and development. Ultimately, this slows consumer spending and demands for telecommunications services. As we all are aware, there is a great deal of controversy with respect to the deployment of broadband services. This complex issue has divided Congress and the American people, as well as polarized segments of the telecommunications industry. However, we also know that broadband deployment is essential, especially in rural America. Communities in Ohio and the nation alike, equipped with broadband technology provide an environment encouraging economic growth by attracting new business, residents, knowledge, and jobs. Mr. Speaker, as we in Congress continue to focus on spurring growth within the telecommunications sector, I thank the FCC for their efforts and ask that they create more certainty within the industry by moving expeditiously to complete action on the Triennial Review.