[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 80 (Thursday, June 18, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1165-E1166]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL J. KANE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 18, 1998

  Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, writing of Sir Thomas More, 
Robert Whittinton observed that he was ``a man for all seasons.'' As I 
pay tribute today to my good friend, Michael Kane, on the occasion of 
his retirement from the Monson Public Schools system, the same 
sentiment comes to mind.
  Though words cannot fairly describe Mike Kane's philanthropic 
approach to life, I would like to detail some of the ways in which he 
has put his talents to use to serve others. Mike Kane began his career 
as a Science and Mathematics Teacher at South Main Street School in 
Monson. He went on to be Vice Principal of Monson Junior-Senior High 
School and later Principal of that same school. Totaling 37 years, 
Mike's career was built around a most noble pursuit--the education of 
our youth.
  While committed to instilling the importance of academic pursuits in 
the young minds that he has reached, Mike Kane has also consistently 
stressed in his teaching and by example the unique role that athletic 
challenges play in one's development. Mike's years as high school 
Baseball and Girl's Basketball coach as well as his involvement and 
leadership with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association 
Basketball Tournament Committee and Sectional Seeding Committee for 
more than 25 years epitomizes this deeply held belief.
  In addition to his dedication to these endeavors, Mike Kane has also 
been seriously involved with the National Foundation of the March of 
Dimes. In both the Monson and Pioneer Valley chapters of this 
organization, Mike has served as Chairman during his tenure of 
membership and has also been on the Pioneer Valley's Board of 
Directors. Donating his time to such a worthy cause offers further 
testament to the quality of Mike Kane's character.
  An active member of the Massachusetts Teachers' Association and the 
National Education Association, Mike Kane has brought to the forefront 
of state and national organizations the same innovative ideas that he 
has shared with students, teachers, and administrators in Monson for 37 
years.

[[Page E1166]]

  The hats worn by Mike Kane--Teacher, Principal, Coach, Volunteer, and 
Craftsman--are those of one singular man committed to education, to 
athletics, to service, and to excellence. I am proud not only to honor 
and to recognize his achievements today, but to know him through his 
good work.

                          ____________________