[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 156 (Saturday, November 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2248]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING A DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVANT, WESTCHESTER COUNTY EXECUTIVE, 
                           ANDREW P. O'ROURKE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 7, 1997

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to salute Andrew P. O'Rourke, a 
public servant who has distinguished himself as one of New York's most 
outstanding community leaders.
  With his recent decision to retire from his position as Westchester 
County Executive, Andy O'Rourke leaves a legacy of goodwill, 
Responsiveness and genuine concern for the citizens of Westchester. 
This is highlighted by the many community groups, such as the 
Westchester Arts Council, that are now calling attention to the success 
of Andy's 14-year administration as county executive.
  The people of Westchester have been privileged to have had a stellar 
county leader like Andy O'Rourke. Since he began his public career in 
1965 as a representative on the Yonkers City Council, through his time 
as chairman of the board of county legislators, and finally his tenure 
as Westchester's county executive, it is clear that Andy has maintained 
a sincere desire to serve the best interests of his constituents. Every 
resident of Westchester County can take pride in knowing that such a 
concerned leader was looking out for them.
  However, Andy is not just a public servant. He is a playwright and 
author, having published two novels and is recently finishing a third. 
Andy is also an educator, having taught students in the 1970's as a law 
professor at Fordham University. He has also served in the important 
role of humanitarian in his work with the Cardinal Newman Foundation of 
New York, Big Brother-Big Sisters, and campaigns to fight AIDS, drunk 
driving, and racism.
  It is the humanitarian role that has possibly drawn the greatest and 
most rewarding accolades for this great citizen. The outstanding 
service of Andy O'Rourke has been recognized over the years by the 
Jewish National Fund with the tree of life award, and as the 1986 B'nai 
B'rith man of the year. Other honors have been bestowed by Long Island 
University, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the Greater 
Westchester Human Rights Fund, Bar-llan University of Tel Aviv, and the 
Westchester-Putnam Affirmative Action Program.
  While this list is long, it is also diverse and well deserved. Andy 
O'Rourke has demonstrated love and compassion for his neighbors and 
their communities. I am proud to have known and worked with Andy 
O'Rourke. Having represented a portion of Westchester County since 
1982, I know how committed Andy has been to the citizens of 
Westchester. We all regret that he is retiring from his position as 
County Executive, but we can look back with admiration at the 
significant work he has accomplished.
  Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join with me in saluting the 
Honorable Andy O'Rourke and wishing him and his family continued 
success and good health in the years to come.

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