[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 43 (Monday, April 14, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E643]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO PETER BEHR

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 14, 1997

  Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late 
Senator Peter Behr, a dedicated and inspiring public servant of 
California. Senator Peter Behr was an instrumental force in the 
California legislature who was driven by principles and a commitment to 
preserving our precious environment. In his nearly 30 years of service, 
Senator Behr served as an inspiration to both his colleagues and 
constituents, including me. He will be remembered for his unparalleled 
environmental activism and for epitomizing the characteristics of an 
inspiring leader.
  Senator Behr's admirable career in politics began as city councilman 
of Mill Valley in 1956. While serving in Marin County, he was 
recognized for leading a grassroots campaign to preserve and protect 
California's Pacific coastline. Through hard work and dedication, he 
moved up to county supervisor, and shortly thereafter he was elected to 
represent Marin in the California Senate.
  One of Senator Behr's most notable accomplishments was the save-our-
shores petition drive, which was instrumental in the formation of Point 
Reyes National Seashore, a beautiful expanse of the northern California 
coast. Additionally, Senator Behr established The 1972 Wild Scenic 
Rivers Act, which provided protection for priceless rivers.
  After retiring from the senate, Senator Behr remained dedicated to 
preserving California's natural resources by involving himself with 
various organizations which strive to preserve our precious 
environment. He demonstrated his leadership among such groups as the 
Sierra Club Foundation, Friends of the River, and the San Francisco 
Foundation.
  Today, Senator Behr is recognized as an exceptional politician who 
earned the utmost respect from both his colleagues and constituents. He 
will be remembered as an avid protector of the environment whose 
visionary ideology will remain a model forever. I ask my colleagues 
today, to join me in recognizing Senator Behr's accomplishments and the 
legacy he will surely leave behind.

                          ____________________