[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 30 (Thursday, March 7, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E304]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY TO MR. AND MRS. ELBERT TEFFERTILLER

                                 ______


                           HON. GLENN POSHARD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 7, 1996

  Mr. POSHARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an occasion that 
is becoming an extremely rare event. Elbert ``Bert'' Teffertiller and 
his wife Alice will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on March 
12. It is with great respect and admiration that I offer them my 
congratulations on reaching this glorious milestone.
  The Teffertiller's were married shortly after Bert returned from over 
3 years of service in the Army during World War II. The couple settle 
in McLeansboro in 1947 and have resided in Hamilton County ever since. 
They raise their two children there, and have since been blessed with 
five grandchildren. In and of itself, 50 years in the institution of 
marriage is a remarkable achievement. The commitment to spouse and 
family is truly momentous, and this kind of devotion often means there 
is less time for outside activities. This is certainly not the case 
with the Teffertillers.
  Since they opened their first clothing store in McLeansboro the year 
of their marriage, Bert and Alice have gradually expanded their 
businesses to include shoes, furniture, cars, and homes, all the while 
helping to improve the local economy. Their devotion to their customers 
is legendary in the region, as they are known for their fantastic 
promotions featuring carnival rides, beauty queens, and television 
stars, refreshments, and a fair and honest deal. In 49 years of 
proprietorship, the Teffertillers have never forced payment, which 
speaks to another kind of commitment, to their community. Bert has 
served on numerous boards and associations, including as president of 
the McLeansboro Merchant's Association and president of the Hamilton 
County Chamber of Commerce. Also, both the Teffertillers are active 
members of their church.
  Mr. Speaker, Bert Teffertiller has said he has tried to give back to 
the community more than he received, and it seems this family has 
accomplished that worthy goal. Their dedicated service to each other, 
to their family, and to their fellow citizens has set a tremendous 
example for the entire Nation. I wish them many more happy years of 
marriage, and it is my great pleasure to represent them in the U.S. 
Congress.

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