[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 58 (Wednesday, May 1, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E691]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO HAROLD JAMES BALLARD

                                 ______


                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 1, 1996

  Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great friend and 
community leader who passed away this week: Harold James Ballard.
  Those of us in the educational community know that Harold always 
worked to make life better for everyone, especially our children. He 
lived the belief that activism was better than lipservice, progress 
better than the status quo.
  In 1952, a young Harold Ballard decided to serve his country, joining 
the U.S. Army. He received the Army Occupation Medal while in Germany. 
For his service in Korea, he was awarded the National Defense Service 
Medal, Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Medal. Following 
his discharge from the Army in 1955, he served for 30 years in the Army 
Reserve.
  Those of us who care about the students in San Diego have all 
benefited from his many years of service. Harold started working with 
schools when his children were in grammar school. His concern was not 
limited to his own four sons, he was involved in parent groups 
throughout San Diego for over 30 years. He was awarded a lifetime 
membership in the PTA for services rendered to students and parents.
  Harold supported the Encanto Little League and was honored with the 
Silver Beaver Award for leadership in Boy Scouts. Any child could go to 
him for help.
  Also known as Jimmy, he volunteered as a member of the district 
advisory council [DAC], the school site council/school advisory 
council. Over the years, he served as the DAC representative for 
Johnson Elementary, Crawford High School, and Gompers Secondary School. 
His service on the DAC was recognized by his selection as its chairman. 
His leadership was rewarded with the Citizen of the Year for 1994-95 
Award by Phi Delta Kappa, and his nomination for the J.C. Penney Golden 
Rule Award. I came to call him ``Mr. Title I'' for his commitment and 
service to our poorest and most disadvantaged students.
  In this lifetime, we all come across a small number of special 
people, those who touch our minds, hearts, and souls with their 
activism, optimism, and dedication to making everyone's life richer. 
Harold was one of those chosen few. My thoughts and prayers go out to 
his wife, Jean, and his family, friends, and the community. This world 
needs more people like Harold Ballard. He will be sorely missed.

                          ____________________