[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 98 (Monday, July 25, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 25, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                      TRIBUTE TO A.W. ``GUS'' KUHN

  Mr. HEFLIN. Mr. President, Mr. A.W. ``Gus'' Kuhn is retiring after 
serving 37 years as the executive director of the Bessemer, AL, Housing 
Authority. During his distinguished career, Gus was responsible for 
significantly reducing the percentage of substandard housing in 
Bessemer by developing almost 2,000 public housing units for the people 
of that community. As the first and only executive director of the 
Bessemer Housing Authority, he has set an extremely high standard of 
hard work and expertise in the realm of public service.
  Gus's record of service extends far beyond his 44 years in public 
housing. During World War II, he served over 3 years in the Air Force. 
Later, he earned a bachelor of science degree in banking and finance 
and a master's degree in economics from the University of Alabama. Gus 
also contributed to the development of the business curriculum at the 
inception of the University of Alabama in Hunstville as the head of 
that department. From Huntsville, he moved on to Atlanta as a 
professionally appointed economist with the public housing 
administration, where he proved his ability to envision change and meet 
tough challenges.
  In 1957, the newly formed Bessemer Housing Authority welcomed Gus and 
his expertise to their community. The housing situtation in Bessemer 
needed attention badly; at that time, Bessemer had a higher percentage 
of substandard housing than any other city in the southeast. Gus took 
up the challenge and began by planning and building housing under three 
urban renewal program projects. His efforts proved successful, and as a 
result, many struggling families were able to find affordable housing.
  As director of community development, Gus developed a much needed 
citywide sanitary sewer system for the city of Bessemer. He also 
contributed to the building of a municipal golf course, the 
beautification of a central city park, and the opening of the Bessemer 
Hall of History. Gus has assisted in bringing in over $65 million to 
Bessemer for local development and has served as president of the 
Alabama Association of Redevelopment Authorities.
  It is my hope that Gus remains active even in retirement. His vision, 
diligence, and commitment make him an outstanding example for his 
successor and for all citizens. Gus Kuhn has shown, through many 
aspects of his work and his life, that he represents the true spirit of 
public service.

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