Paul Gillmor

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Chairman, I thank the Chairman for yielding, and I rise in support of H.R. 1872. This bipartisan bill, of which I am a cosponsor, is intended to bring competition to the intergovernmental satellite organizations, INTELSAT and Inmarsat. It will also remove COMSAT's monopoly over access to these organizations. Fundamentally, this bill is a major policy decision that commercial satellite services should be provided by the private sector worldwide and not by the government. The government consortia may have been needed to run an international satellite system in the 1960s, but after almost 40 years, things change. We need to update our laws and our regulations to reflect the current marketplace. In addition, increasing the competitive nature of the international satellite marketplace is very important to ensure that private American satellite companies can compete on a level playing field. And today, the playing field is tilted toward INTELSAT and Inmarsat. These organizations are owned by monopoly providers of telecommunications services worldwide. Working in cartel fashion, they have tried to keep competition from developing. There are two other important provisions in this bill providing for ``direct access'' and ``fresh look,'' and I presume my time has expired.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding individual from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Mr. Ron Lehman. Today, Thursday, April 30, 1998, Mr. Lehman will retire from his position as bailiff for the Sandusky County Court of Common Pleas in Fremont, OH. Ron, a highly regarded and distinguished law enforcement officer, will be retiring after 30 years of exemplary community service to the citizens of Sandusky County. Thirty years ago, Ron began his career in law enforcement as a Police Officer for the City of Fremont. He later worked as a Deputy with the Sandusky County Sheriff's Department. In 1976, Ron began working as the bailiff for the Honorable Harry Sargeant at the Municipal Court. Three years later, in 1979, Ron continued his service with Judge Sargeant becoming the bailiff for the Court of Common Pleas, where he has served for the past 22 years. Ron's dedication to law enforcement and to Judge Sargeant and the Court is surpassed only by his unwavering commitment to his family and his friends. To all those who know him, Ron is a wonderful person and a caring and loving husband. They say that America works because of the unselfish acts of her citizens. No where is that more evident than with the actions and contributions that Ron Lehman has given to his family, his profession, and his community. Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Ron Lehman on the occasion of his retirement, and in wishing him the very best in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding individual from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Mr. Harry Thompson. On Saturday, February 28, 1998, Mr. Thompson will be retiring from the Ottawa County Board of Elections. Mr. Speaker, Harry Thompson has dedicated much of his life to serving his country, his community, and his party. Mr. Thompson has served as a member of the Board of Elections for ten years, the past eight as the Chairman. During his tenure on the board of elections, Mr. Thompson was a strong public servant, an impartial judge of electoral issues, and a valued colleague to those with whom he worked. Like his unwavering service to the Board of Elections, Mr. Thompson dedicated a great deal of time to the Ottawa County Republican Party. Mr. Thompson served as the county GOP Chairman for many years, retiring just this past year. Mr. Thompson diligently worked to encourage and support increased participation in our political process. His support of grassroots political exercises has certainly helped to strengthen the free form of government we enjoy. Mr. Thompson has placed an enormous emphasis on service to government, to politics, and to the community. We have often heard that America works because of the unselfish contributions of its citizens. I know that Ottawa County is a better place because of the countless hours given by Harry Thompson. His public service and commitment to Ottawa County will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, in addition to the flag being flown over the Capitol on Mr. Thompson's behalf, I would urge my colleagues to rise and join me in paying special tribute to Mr. Harry Thompson, a true American, a dedicated public servant, and a good friend. We wish him well in his retirement and in the years ahead.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding group of student- athletes from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This past fall, the Liberty Center High School football team completed a truly memorable season by winning the Ohio High School Athletic Association Division V State Championship. The 1997 Liberty Center High School football team demonstrated that, with a great deal of hard work, with dedication to the task at hand, and with a strong sense of commitment, you can realize your dreams and make them come true. The Liberty Center football team achieved more this past year than any other football team in the school's history by winning its first ever State Football Championship. The Tiger Football Team capped off a perfect 14-0 season by easily defeating Amanda Clearcreek in the Division V state championship game held in Massillon, Ohio. The 49-8 victory is the culmination of an effort that started four years ago, when, unfortunately, Liberty Center lost in the title game. Under the guidance and leadership of Head Coach Rex Lingruen, the Tigers realized a lifelong dream, through a great deal of hard-fought success. As a result of the team's unwavering loyalty for each other, the dedication and commitment to Coach Lingruen, and the enthusiasm they have for the game of football, the 1997 season ended in victory. The unselfish attitude of the Liberty Center Tigers is certainly a good example of what can be accomplished when people work together for a common goal. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Coach Rex Lingruen and the 1997 Division V State Football Champions, the Liberty Center High School Tigers. I would urge all of my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to an outstanding team.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding community organization from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. On Sunday, February 1, 1998, the Seneca County Pork Producers Association will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary. During all of its 50 year history, the Seneca County Pork Producers has demonstrated the highest commitment to the profession of farming, the agriculture industry, and to the community and residents of the Seneca County area. As a resident of Old Fort, Ohio, in Seneca County, I have come to know the various members and leaders of the Seneca County Pork Producers. Those individuals are my friends, neighbors, and colleagues. They are always willing to lend a hand to folks who are in need, and give selflessly to the entire community. It is an outstanding achievement that, after 50 years of dedication, the Seneca County Pork Producers continue to look into the future with a tremendous amount of enthusiasm to what is sure to be another half century of success. By keeping pace with the improvements and overall changes in their profession, the Pork Producers have maintained the highest sense of responsibility to its members, and to the surrounding area. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to 50 years of achievement of the Seneca County Pork Producers, and in wishing them much success in the coming years.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding gentleman from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Mr. Charles Woodson. Charles is the recipient of the 1997 Heisman Trophy, given each year by the Downtown Athletic Club to college football's most outstanding player. Charles Woodson, who led the University of Michigan Wolverine Football Team to a perfect 12-0 record this past year, and the school's first National Football Championship in almost 50 years, is the first and only defensive football player ever to win the Heisman Trophy. Charles Woodson, whose hometown is Fremont, Ohio in Sandusky County, broke quite a few Buckeye hearts when he chose to play football at Michigan instead of The Ohio State University. In fact, in arguably one of his finest performances of the year, Charles nearly single-handedly defeated the Buckeyes in Michigan's 20-14 victory. Charles Woodson's success, both on and off the field, is a demonstration to all of us that hard work, determination, and commitment to excellence can truly have an impact on our lives. He is a prime example that good deeds are rewarded. Not only by becoming the first and only defensive football player to win the Heisman trophy, but with his positive attitude and strong work ethic, Charles Woodson is helping to redefine how college football players are judged. Mr. Speaker, Charles Woodson is a truly gifted athlete, a team player, and a good person. I would urge my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the 1997 Heisman Trophy winner, from Fremont, Ohio, Mr. Charles Woodson.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding group of student- athletes from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This past fall, the Delphos St. John's High School football team completed a truly memorable season by winning the Ohio High School Athletic Association Division VI State Championship. The 1997 Delphos St. John's High School football team demonstrated that, with a great deal of hard work, dedication to the task at hand, and with a strong sense of commitment, you can realize your dreams and make them come true. The Delphos St. John's football team achieved more this past year than any other football team in the school's history by winning its first ever State Football Championship. The Blue Jays football team capped off a perfect 14-0 season by defeating second-ranked Norwalk St. Paul 42-28 in the Division VI state championship game. Under the guidance of Head Coach Vic Whiting, the Blue Jays realized a life-long dream, through a great deal of hard-fought success. Their willingness to sacrifice for each other, to find the extra energy needed to produce a champion is a true testament to the unwavering loyalty that each player has for the team. The unselfish attitude of the Delphos St. John's Blue Jays is certainly a good example of what can be accomplished when people work together for a common goal. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Coach Vic Whiting and the 1997 Division VI State Champions, the Delphos St. John's High School Blue Jays. I would urge all of my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to an outstanding team.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding group of student- athletes from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This past fall, the Defiance High School Football Team completed a truly memorable season by winning the Ohio High School Athletic Association Division II State Championship. The 1997 Defiance High School Bulldog Football Team demonstrated that, with a great deal of hard work, dedication to the task at hand and to each other, and a strong sense of commitment, you can realize your dreams and make them come true. The Defiance Football Team achieved more this past year than any other football team in the school's history by winning its first ever State Football Championship. The Bulldog Football Team capped off a perfect 14-0 season by defeating Uniontown Lake in the Division II state championship game held in Massillon, Ohio. Under the guidance of Head Coach Jerry Buti, the Bulldogs realized a life-long dream through a great deal of hard-fought success. Their willingness to sacrifice for each other, to dig deep within themselves to find the extra energy needed to produce a champion is a true testament to the unwavering loyalty that each player has for the team. The unselfish attitude of the Defiance Bulldogs is certainly a good example of what can be accomplished when people work together for a common goal. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Coach Jerry Buti and the 1997 Division II State Champions, the Defiance High School Bulldogs. I would urge all of my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to an outstanding team.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of Ohio. J.M. ``Sage'' Reagor will retire on November 12, 1997. I have know Sage Reagor for longer than either one of us wants to admit. He is a man of integrity and or honor. His quick wit and eternal optimism are his hallmarks. Sage Reagor served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1942-43 and again from 1950-52. He graduated summa cum laude from Texas Christian University in 1955 with a bachelor of arts degree. He received a masters in Business Administration from Georgia State University in 1968. He began his professional career with the Humble Oil and Refining Co. as a draftsman in 1948. From 1953 to 1969, Sage Reagor held various positions with the Sinclair Pipeline Co., Sinclair Oil & Gas, the Sinclair Refining Co. and Sinclair Oil Corp. After a 2-year stint with B.P. Inc., Sage Reagor moved to Standard Oil of Ohio. While at Standard Oil, Sage established and managed the company's first State government affairs department. For the next 14 years, his department grew from a one-man operation to over 30 professionals in four departments. Sage Reagor tried retirement once before. In 1985 he retired from Standard Oil, only to return to the work force when he affiliated with Governmental Policy Group, Inc. of Columbus, Ohio. Given Sage's track record, I am confident that in his second go at retirement, he will be as active as ever. Mr. Speaker, J.M. ``Sage'' Reagor is a gentleman who embodies all that corporate America can and should be. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing him well as he enters his second retirement. Maybe he will finally get it right this time.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge a group of Ohioans who have come together to speak out on the issue of lawsuit abuse. Because of their ongoing concern, local citizens have volunteered their time to organize Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse [OCALA] and to undertake a public awareness campaign about what they perceive as the problems of lawsuit abuse. Based in Columbus, Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse focuses their efforts in informing and educating Ohio residents about an issue that has statewide and national implications for all Americans. The costs of lawsuit abuse can include higher costs for consumer products and services, higher medical expenses, greater taxes, and fewer jobs due to lost business expansion and foregone product development. This is not a new concern for many of us in the House of Representatives, but one which must be addressed. OCALA wants to help prevent unnecessary lawsuits that do more harm than good and bring balance, fairness, responsibility, and restraint to our court system. OCALA supporters believe that through education, there will be change in public understanding, attitudes, and behavior, and they have the opportunity to play a vital role in reforming the legal system. This nonprofit grassroots organization has raised local funds to run educational media announcements and provide speakers for other organizations and citizens' groups across the State. They hope these actions will raise awareness of the lawsuit abuse issue and help legislators arrive at fair and equitable legislative solutions. Gov. George Voinovich has declared September 22-27 as Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week throughout the State of Ohio. I want to commend all the individuals who are involved in Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse for their dedication and commitment. They are helping elected Federal and State officials address serious issues. I commend their work on behalf of our State.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of Ohio. On August 21, 1997, John E. Moon was installed as the national Commander in Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. A resident of Grover Hill, OH, John Moon entered the U.S. Marine Corps in 1967. He served with the 2d Battalion, 3d Marine Division in South Vietnam. His military honors include the Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Civil Action Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and the National Defense Service Medal. John Moon joined the Sherwood, Ohio Post of Veterans of Foreign Wars in 1970. He joined the Grover Hill VFW in 1975. He has served in numerous positions in the VFW, including terms as post commander, district commander, and State commander. John Moon is only the second Ohioan selected to serve as the national Commander in Chief of the VFW. His selection is most certainly humbling to him since the membership roster of the VFW reads as an honor roll of those who answered their country's most dire call and successfully defended freedom. Mr. Speaker, John Moon is a former marine whose life of service is an inspiration to every American who believes our Nation's future is built on the sacrifices of today. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to John Moon and to wish him well as he continues his dedicated service to country as national Commander in Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the bravery and courage of Regional Security Officer Steve Fakan. Steve is a native of Vermilion, OH, which is in my district and was recently honored by the Secretary of State Madeline Albright. Steve exhibited exceptional personal bravery and perseverance by saving the lives of trapped American journalists caught in raging gun battles between rival factions during the renewed fighting in Monrovia, Liberia, in May 1996. On May 14, 1996, the Regional Security Officer [RSO] office received a frantic call for help from eight journalists staying at the Mamba Point Hotel. Factional fighting raged around the hotel and the journalists feared for their lives as out-of-control fighters savagely ransacked the area only a few hundred meters from the Embassy. They requested urgent help in getting to the Embassy, as conditions continued to deteriorate. Diplomatic Security [DS] agents RSO Steve Fakan and TDY RSO Tony Deibler quickly assessed the potentially lethal situation and devised a strategy to rescue the beleaguered journalists. Using the nearest Embassy gate to the hotel as an exit, Steve and Tony traversed by foot over 300 meters of treacherous open field to the hotel by using alternate covering patterns for each other. Their every movement was closely eyed by snipers perched in nearby buildings. After reaching the hotel safely, they quickly briefed the journalists on their escape plan. Countless bullets ricocheted off the pavement and nearby buildings as the group made its way back to the embassy. The two agents both realized that they were being tracked by snipers. As the reporters used the appropriate cover maneuvers, taught to them by the DS agents, to make it back to the Embassy, Tony spotted a sniper aiming his weapon at Steve. Without hesitation, Tony quickly sighted in the sniper with his scoped weapon, causing him to hold his fire and take his finger off the trigger. The eight journalists, dragging cameras and equipment, made it safely to Embassy compound, thanks to the expertise of the two DS agents. The exhausted, but grateful group of journalists rained enthusiastic praise on the exceptional courage exhibited by their rescuers. These two men are outstanding examples of the best that DS has to offer, and the American people can be proud that Diplomatic Security has public servants like Tony and Steve to protect our interests overseas.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the chairman giving me the opportunity to engage in a colloquy in respect to a particular problem affecting my congressional district. One section of the Taxpayer Relief Act provides a $15.50 tax to be placed on the arrival of international airline passengers from destinations outside the United States. While this tax may make sense for passengers flying from London to Washington, it does not make sense when the distance is negligible, and I seek to have this section adjusted. Here is the problem. Griffing Flying Service from Sandusky, Ohio flies charter aircraft from Sandusky to Pelee Island in Lake Erie and back. Pelee Island is only 25 miles from Sandusky, but it nonetheless lies in the territorial waters of Canada. Under certain circumstances flights from Pelee Island could be subject to the $15.50 international arrival tax proposed in the House bill. That means that a $20 plane ride now would cost $35.50, which would effectively terminate Griffing's service to Pelee and give the business to a competing Canadian-owned ferryboat service. As a matter of simple fairness and common sense we should not have this tax apply in such a situation. I seek to have the chairman's assurances that Griffing Air Service and other short distance aircraft operations on the United States-Canadian border should not be subject to this onerous tax.

Mr. GILLMOR. I yield to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of northwest Ohio. On June 22 of this year, the family and friends of Ray Burkholder will gather to celebrate his 80th birthday which will occur on July 3. Ray lived and farmed most his life in Pandora, OH. A member of the Grace Mennonite Church in Pandora, Ray has been a leader in his community. He was an instrumental part of the Menmonite disaster team, always available to lend a hand to others. He served for many years as the Sunday school treasurer and is a recipient of both the Community Service Award of Pandora and the Outstanding Citizen Award of Pandora. This past year he served as First Grand Marshal of the Riley Creek Festival. Birthdays are a wonderful time to recount memories and to look toward new horizons. Since Ray's birth he has been witness to tremendous revolutions in politics, technology, and society. However, I know his favorite memories are of his family and friends. Americans would not be able to enjoy the blessings of our country without the tireless dedication of those who have the talent and willingness to work for their community. Ray Burkholder, through his example of leadership and humility has enriched the lives of his neighbors in countless ways over the years. It is with great fondness that they will take a day to thank him for his warmth and generosity. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending best wishes to Ray and his family for continued happiness and best wishes.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of Ohio. Lyman Brownfield is retiring after decades of outstanding service as an attorney and community leader. As Lyman retires, he can have the satisfaction of knowing that his career will stand as a hallmark for others to emulate. Over the years, both his clients and the citizens of the community have depended on him for assistance in solving problems and providing sound judgment on many issues in the region. Lyman has always put forth a great amount of time and energy in vigorous support of his clients' causes and in community service. Long recognized as one of Ohio's most brilliant attorneys, he also took the time to train and help young lawyers to learn the skills of their profession. He served in many capacities in professional organizations and Government including exemplary service as general counsel of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Mr. Speaker, we have often heard that America works because of the unselfish contributions of her citizens. I know that Ohio is a much better place to live because of the dedication and countless hours of effort given by Lyman Brownfield. While Lyman may be retiring he has left an indelible stamp on those who know him and on Ohio. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying a special tribute to Lyman Brownfield's record of personal accomplishments and wishing him all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on S. 410.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. As the gentleman has said, this bill does provide a 90-day extension of the effective date of title III of the National Securities Markets Improvement Act of 1996. The reason for the extension, which has been requested by SEC Chairman Arthur Levitt, is necessary to ensure the orderly implementation of the provisions of the Investment Advisors Supervision Coordination Act, which is title III of the Improvement Act. Pursuant to that act, the regulatory status of over 22,000 investment advisors in the country will change. The SEC has proposed rules that will guide the investment advisors as to whether they are subject to either Federal or State regulation under the act, as opposed to being subject to regulation at both the Federal and State levels under the current law. Chairman Levitt has expressed concerns that the effective date of title III, which is April 9, will not permit adequate time to permit investment advisors to consult with counsel to determine their regulatory status, and to submit the necessary forms to the commission to deregister if they are deemed to be small advisors and therefore subject to State, rather than Federal, regulation. Lack of sufficient time would cause these small investment advisors, who are intended by the act to be regulated by the States, to be unable to deregister from the Commission prior to the effective date. That would result in the State being preempted from regulating the very advisors that they are intended to regulate under the act. Accordingly, the Chairman has requested this extension in a letter to the gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Bliley], the Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, dated February 12. This is a responsible request that I strongly support. I think Congress in the last session marked a significant achievement with the passage of the improvement act, which is going to bring greater efficiency and effectiveness to the regulation of U.S. security markets, including the regulation of investment advisors, and I would urge my colleagues to support S. 410.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield to me under his reservation for an explanation?

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the Senate bill (S. 410) to extend the effective date of the Investment Advisors Supervision Coordination Act, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to extend best wishes to Eugene and Doris Herdman on the occasion of their golden wedding anniversary, February 9, 1997. Eugene and Doris Herdman have shared a partnership of love and commitment which has been an inspiration to all who have known them. Enriched by all of life's experiences, their union has endured and grown stronger over time. Marriage is the principal foundation on which civilization has been built. The loyalty and love that Eugene and Doris Herdman have demonstrated through the past 50 years strengthens the institution of marriage and increases our faith in the idea of trust between human beings. As Eugene and Doris Herdman celebrate this special occasion, I wish them, their two children, Nancy and Jim, and their two grandchildren, Jon and Alison, many years of happiness and fulfillment.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding service organization located in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. On May 10, the Lions Club of LaGrange, OH, will celebrate their 50th anniversary. The city of LaGrange is a community renowned for its civic pride and commitment to service. In 1947, it was home to active churches and school organizations dedicated to helping others. There was not, however, an agency which could coordinate these services to provide for the entire community. It was decided to form a Lions Club and after enlisting 28 good citizens of LaGrange, they became charter members and joined Lions International. It was a good start and the club was active in the community from the very beginning. Throughout its history there has never been a lack of enthusiasm or volunteer labor for its many projects. In addition, the LaGrange Lions Club has been active throughout the years in zone, State and international Lions. Anniversaries are a time to reflect upon a steadfast tradition of service. It is also a time to look toward new horizons. Lions have made it their responsibility to serve those in need by keeping pace with the ever increasing challenges facing mankind. Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the community and the members of the club have greatly benefited from the effort that was started in 1947. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the LaGrange Lions and encourage them to continue to uphold what has become the standard for service in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of Ohio. Williams County Commissioner Rosanne H. Fisher is retiring after years of service to the people of Ohio. I have had the privilege of representing Williams County in the U.S. House of Representatives through much of the time Rosanne has served as commissioner. It has been a privilege working with her to help Northwest Ohio. I can tell you Rosanne has been a strong advocate and outstanding friend of our area. Rosanne's aggressive leadership was crucial in securing funding for the Hillside Assisted Living Complex, establishment of Solid Waste District and Recycling, implementation of 911 system, remodeling the senior center and the establishment of a records center. She is member of the Ohio County Commissioner Association Board of Trustees, State OCCA Legislative Board, and the State of Ohio Board of Adult Detention. A graduate of Libby High School and the University of Toledo, Rosanne was first elected Commissioner in 1989. Throughout her distinguished tenure with the County Commissioners, Rosanne has demonstrated her deep faith in, and dedication to, upholding the principles of American democracy. Mr. Speaker, we have often heard that America works because of the unselfish contributions of her citizens. I know that Ohio is a much better place to live because of the dedication and countless hours of effort given by Commissioner Rosanne Fisher. While Rosanne may be leaving her official capacity in Williams County, I know she will continue to be actively involved in those causes dear to her. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Rosanne H. Fisher's record of personal accomplishments and wishing her and her family all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding service organization located in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. On November 18, the Kiwanis Club of Ottawa, OH, will celebrate their 75th anniversary. The city of Ottawa is a community renowned for its civic pride and commitment to service. Kiwanians are individuals who give a little of their time to make this community a better place to live and work. The Ottawa Club has sponsored Boy Scout Troop 224 since 1930 and the Kiwanis Key Club for high school students since 1962. The club helped provide funds for the Ottawa Glandorf High School Band and has conducted a blood screening program annually since 1988. The club erected a new Girl Scout house in 1971. The club also developed Tawa Manor, a housing project for the elderly. The club has been active in the community from the very beginning. Throughout its history there has never been a lack of enthusiasm or volunteer labor for its many projects. In addition, the Ottawa Kiwanis Club has been active throughout the years in zone, State, and International Kiwanis. Anniversaries are a time to reflect upon a steadfast tradition of service. They are also a time to look toward new horizons. Kiwanis have made it their responsibility to serve those in need by keeping pace with the ever increasing challenges facing mankind. Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the community and the members of the club have greatly benefited from the effort that was started in 1921. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the Ottawa Kiwanians and encourage them to continue to uphold what has become the standard for service in Ohio.