[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 28, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E37]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       TRIBUTE TO GARY M. THOMAS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 28, 1998

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Gary M. 
Thomas, who has served as the President of the United Chambers of 
Commerce of the San Fernando Valley for the last two years.
  Gary has worked diligently for two years to strengthen the United 
Chambers of Commerce. He has selflessly dedicated his time and effort 
to improving our community, through several leadership roles. Gary has 
worked to ensure the financial security of our community as a co-
founder of the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley and the 
Chairman of Mayor Richard Riordan's Valley Business Corps. In this 
capacity, he has initiated efforts to keep businesses located in the 
San Fernando Valley, while working to encourage their expansion.
  Gary's expertise has been recognized by many leaders in our state. He 
is the Chairman of California State Assemblyman Tom McClintok's 
Business Advisory Commission and an invaluable member of State 
Assemblyman Robert Hertzberg's Business Advisory Commission.
  Gary also plays an active role on the boards of directors for several 
of our community's most valuable organizations, including the San 
Fernando Valley Charitable Foundation, the Valley Leadership Institute, 
the advisory board for Columbia West Hospitals, the Wellness Community 
and the West Valley Boys and Girls Club.
  Mr. Speaker, distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring 
Gary M. Thomas for his dedication to maintaining and improving the 
quality of life in our community. We are grateful to Gary for the time 
he has served as President of the United Chambers of Commerce of the 
San Fernando Valley and wish him the best of luck in his future 
endeavors.

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