[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 10 (Wednesday, February 11, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E138]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO LARRY ROSENTHAL

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                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 11, 1998

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a member of 
my staff who has recently left my office to become the Chief of Staff 
at the National Indian Gaming Commission. Larry Rosenthal, who hails 
from my hometown of Flint, MI, began working as a legislative assistant 
in my office in 1987. I recognized immediately that Larry shared my 
belied that the role of government is to preserve, protect, defend and 
enhance human dignity.
  As Members of Congress, we know how crucial it is to have a good 
staff. I have always sought to hire people who have good heads and good 
hearts. Larry has both attributes in great abundance. Indeed, over the 
years, Larry has not only become one of my closest advisors, he has 
also been one of my dearest friends.
  During his tenure on my staff, Larry handled a variety of my most 
important legislative priorities. He was instrumental in the passage of 
the Michigan Wilderness Heritage Act, the Grand Island National 
Recreation Area Act, and the Michigan Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. 
Larry's work as the staff coordinator for the Congressional Automotive 
Caucus was crucial to my efforts to reinvigorate the Caucus and provide 
effective leadership in Congress on issues affecting the American 
automotive industry.
  Most recently, Larry dedicated his time and efforts to the First 
Americans, Native Americans. He worked tirelessly to ensure recognition 
and federal support for tribes across the United States. Larry was 
committed to the fundamentals of sovereignty and respect that play such 
a critical role in Native American culture. His work as staff 
coordinator of the Congressional Native American Caucus has earned him 
a reputation in Washington, D.C. as one the most knowledgeable 
congressional staffers on these issues. He has also earned the respect 
and gratitude of Native Americans in Indian Country.
  There is no doubt that Larry has left an indelible mark on all of 
those who have come in contact with my congressional office. Whether 
planning a softball game, a reception for Ernie Harwell, or a 
conference on Indian Issues, Larry brought excitement and interest to 
each event. It is this dedication and devotion coupled with an 
indomitable spirit that makes Larry Rosenthal such a unique person. I 
am proud to call him my friend.
  Larry's departure from my office is very bittersweet. Although I know 
that Larry will serve the government well at the NIGC, I will certainly 
miss his expertise. His service to the Ninth Congressional District 
should serve as an example to us all. Please join me in expressing my 
gratitude to Larry for his many years of service on Capitol Hill. I 
wish him the best in all his future endeavors.

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