[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 96 (Friday, July 17, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1330]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO MR. PAT PATTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 16, 1998

  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a gentleman who 
has endeared himself to the cause of equality and justice in Northern 
Ireland and distinguished himself as a community leader in Texas. Pat 
Patton has served in many capacities, both professionally and as a 
volunteer, for his community. As the Executive Director of the Ancient 
Order of the Hibernians, he worked diligently and effectively at 
seeking recognition of inequalities in Northern Ireland.
  Before assuming that position, Mr. Patton played an instrumental role 
in the Irish community throughout Texas. He produced and hosted a 
weekly radio show in Houston called ``Irish Aires.'' In 1991, I had the 
privilege of working with Mr. Patton as he spearheaded the lobbying 
effort to pass the MacBride Principles in the Texas Legislature. His 
tireless efforts over a period of two legislative sessions ultimately 
succeeded. To this day, this law dictates principles of fairness and 
equality within companies in Northern Ireland in which the State of 
Texas owns shares. For these and other efforts, Mr. Patton, on July 21, 
will be honored at the National Convention of the Ancient Order of the 
Hibernians in Pittsburgh, PA.
  By profession, Mr. Patton is a social worker, having completed his 
undergraduate degree from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, which 
is my alma mater. As a social worker myself, I am aware of the 
sacrifices and patience required in this profession. After receiving 
his Masters of Social Work (MSW) from Tulane University in New Orleans, 
he provided counseling for the US Air Force. He continued his services 
at Catholic Charities in Los Angeles where he served as a therapist and 
family marriage counselor. Later, he moved back to Texas where he 
continued serving those less fortunate as Vice President of Houston 
Lighthouse for the Blind.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the selfless devotion 
of Mr. Patton to his community and his country. We owe him, his wife 
Mary, and their family, our debt of gratitude.

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