[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 64 (Tuesday, May 19, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E896]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING ATHENA AWARD WINNER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 19, 1998

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to 
one of my constituents who has recently been honored with the ATHENA 
award by the Lenawee County Chamber of Commerce.
  Janet McDowell is an assistant to the superintendent of the Lenawee 
Intermediate School District. She has been presented with the ATHENA 
award for her outstanding contributions to the Lenawee County 
community.
  It is gratifying that the Lenawee Chamber of Commerce has devoted 
itself to the task of recognizing those people who make such valuable 
contributions to our community. And it is even more inspiring to know 
of the many good works of area residents such as Janet McDowell.
  As the Lenawee Chamber realizes, a healthy economic climate is not 
the sole characteristic that makes a community worthwhile. While we can 
do much to create a climate that brings jobs, builds roads, lowers 
taxes, and eliminates deficits, the most important deficit we as a 
nation and a community must face is a deficit of values and character.
  For this reason, Mr. Speaker, I wanted to tell my colleagues about 
those people who demonstratee the true meaning of community service in 
my district in Michigan. So many people talk about the need to get 
involved and pitch in when they see a problem, but Janet McDowell is 
one person who takes action.
  Janet has distinguished herself as a volunteer for a number of local 
organizations, including the United Way and the American Red Cross. She 
is an active member of the Lenawee Chamber and a vigorous participant 
in her chosen community.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my constitutents, I extend my 
congratulations and appreciation to Janet McDowell. May she continue to 
be a source of encouragement to men and women whose professional 
accomplishments and public service endeavors are worthy of recognition.

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