[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 129 (Wednesday, September 18, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1635-E1636]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CLARION COUNTY, PA: COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. WILLIAM F. CLINGER, JR.

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 18, 1996

  Mr. CLINGER. Mr. Speaker, all eyes in the Commonwealth of 
Pennsylvania--and increasingly throughout the Nation--are fixed 
admiringly on Clarion County.

[[Page E1636]]

  I have the pleasure to report that Clarion County, in the Fifth 
Congressional District, is the selection for the prestigious Community 
of the Year honor by the Pennsylvania State Chamber of Business and 
Industry. And this distinction follows on the heels of the Clarion 
River's selection for tribute during Pennsylvania's River Month last 
June.
  On what grounds, Mr. Speaker, is Clarion County sweeping all honors 
this year? I have a hunch, and I will share it with you. But I maintain 
that the best way for you and our colleagues to understand is for each 
of you to visit for yourselves.
  That's because Clarion County is nothing short of a stunning natural 
treasure. And, importantly, those who call it home recognize its 
wonders and true value. They share a very real commitment to serve as 
its stewards not only for today but for all future generations.
  And it's paying off. Their dedication to preserving the beauty of 
northwest Pennsylvania has contributed to the region's flourishing 
reputation as a tourist's haven. The dividends, cautiously earned, will 
continue to be paid through the years.
  I am especially pleased, Mr. Speaker, to share this honor with my 
colleagues in the House today. Just hours ago, the Resources Committee 
reported legislation to designate 51.7 miles of the Clarion River as 
part of the National Wild and Scenic River System. This legislation is 
really the product of 4\1/2\ years of impassioned public effort, and I 
ask for the support of the House to enact it in the waning days of the 
104th Congress.
  Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to offer my most sincere 
congratulations to the people of Clarion County, PA.

                          ____________________