[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 149 (Thursday, October 30, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2139-E2140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE SHARON L. GIRE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 30, 1997

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I have had the pleasure to call Sharon Gire 
my friend and my State representative for many years. She is someone 
who has dedicated her life to serving the people of Michigan. Sharon 
was honored by her friends and colleagues in Clinton Township on 
October 29, 1997.
  The State of Michigan has been fortunate to have Sharon Gire serve as 
a State representative since 1987. She has brought to this role a 
passion for social justice, consummate political skills and an 
unselfish commitment of time and energy. Sharon has been a fighter for 
our children and families. As chair of the education committee, Sharon 
puts politics aside

[[Page E2140]]

and children first. Just recently, she organized a bipartisan effort to 
improve Michigan's high school proficiency test. In 1994, under her 
able leadership a special committee developed a 14 bill package on 
domestic violence that was signed into law helping millions of women 
and children deal with the pain of domestic abuse.
  Sharon has not only been active in Lansing, she is deeply involved in 
Macomb County. Sharon had been an active member in organizations such 
as the Clinton Township Goodfellows, the Mount Clements Art Center, 
Macomb County Child Abuse and Neglect Information Council, Vietnam 
Veterans Chapter 154, and the Democratic women's caucus. Throughout the 
years, she has worked on issues that concern children, seniors, 
veterans, substance abuse and environmental causes. Sharon's expertise, 
developed from her work in counseling and social work, has given her a 
special talent for helping people.
  Throughout the years, I have had the pleasure to work with Sharon on 
many issues and projects. She is a problem solver and strong leader. 
Few people have given to their community as Sharon has given to hers. 
Her vision and dedication has touched the lives of many people. I want 
to congratulate Sharon on her very distinguished career in the 
legislature. We will miss her very much in the State legislature but I 
am confident Sharon's vision will continue to touch our lives. I wish 
Sharon and her husband Dana all of the best and I look forward to 
working with them on many valuable projects in the future.

                          ____________________