[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 146 (Saturday, October 8, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 8, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                         TRIBUTE TO TOM JURCHAK

                                 ______


                         HON. JOSEPH M. McDADE

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 7, 1994

  Mr. McDADE. Mr. Speaker, I take this opportunity to recognize the 
achievements of an outstanding Pennsylvanian who has made a lasting, 
positive, and significant contribution to the agricultural economy and 
the individuals and families involved in farming.
  Tom Jurchak is retiring next month after 38 years with the 
Pennsylvania State University Extension Service. He started in 1956 as 
assistant agent in Luzerne County and was named to his present position 
as Lackawanna County Extension Director. Those nearly four decades of 
service are distinguished by a remarkable dedication, expert knowledge, 
professional competence, and innovative ideas for improving 
agricultural production.
  Tom's contributions to the commercial vegetable production, tomato, 
and dairy industries have been invaluable. His monthly ``Milk Market 
News'' report is a widely read and valued resource for dairy farmers 
throughout the entire northeastern United States.
  His expertise in the commercial vegetable field has resulted in 
numerous advancements in soil treatment and production, especially the 
``no till'' tomato planter. Tom was instrumental in the growth of an 
expanding fresh market tomato industry and the development of a viable 
and growing local vegetable business and the startup of the oldest 
farmer-owned night market in Pennsylvania.
  I have particular memories of Tom's essential role 21 years ago in 
gathering information on Federal assistance in the aftermath of damage 
in my region from Hurricane Agnes. He played a key role in efforts to 
grow grass on culm banks in northeastern Pennsylvania and development 
of nutrition aid programs for low-income families. He has also been 
active in 4-H and youth development activities.
  My staff and I are grateful to Tom for serving as a source of 
information and advice on dairy policy and agriculture issues.
  Tom Jurchak will be honored by the Lackawanna County Cooperative 
Extension Association at a reception in Dickson City, PA, on November 
12. He is truly deserving of all of the accolades he will receive. He 
has been a force for positive change, and I want to extend my 
appreciation for the remarkable job he has done. My best wishes go to 
Tom, his wife Marie, their four children, and their families.

                          ____________________