[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 118 (Wednesday, September 9, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1670]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY LONDON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SAM GEJDENSON

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 9, 1998

  Mr. GEJDENSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Johnny 
London as he marks his Thirtieth Anniversary as the morning host on 
WICH in Norwich, Connecticut. Over the past three decades, Johnny has 
become an ``institution'' in Norwich through his show and, more 
importantly, his work on behalf of the community.
  Johnny came to Norwich from Maine thirty years ago to take a job as 
the ``morning man'' at WICH. WICH is the major AM station serving 
Norwich and surrounding communities. Over the years, Johnny has 
developed a format which combines news, political commentary, history 
lessons, sports and discussion about community events. When it comes to 
politics, Johnny calls it like he sees it. He doesn't mince words and 
he isn't afraid to criticize someone in office or a proposal if he 
believes issues need to be raised. His show gives him an opportunity to 
highlight issues and question actions. However, in the very best 
tradition of American broadcasting, Johnny has never done so for 
personal aggrandizement. He has always acted in the public interest and 
been motivated by doing what is best for the community.
  Mr. Speaker, Johnny London is much, much more than the host of a 
morning radio show. He is a tireless friend to countless organizations, 
charities and special events to whom he lends his time and support. 
Johnny's show has perhaps the most extensive ``community calendar'' of 
any in Connecticut. Moreover, he has supported hundreds of charitable 
functions over the years. To generate awareness about issues and raise 
funds to assist those in need, Johnny has gone into the boxing ring 
with Willie Pep and played basketball with teams from across the 
country and around the world.
  To some, these actions might not sound uncommon--every radio 
personality does publicity stunts. But this is where Johnny is 
different. He is our there every day, every week and year after year 
working on behalf of the community. He is there when it's ninety-five 
degrees and in the blowing snow. He puts just as much into supporting 
events that attract ten people as those that draw thousands from across 
southeastern Connecticut. His remarkable generosity is more 
extraordinary than even the longest tenure on the airwaves.
  Mr. Speaker, as Johnny marks his thirtieth anniversary with WICH, he 
has much to be proud of. His show is among the highest rated in 
Connecticut. Currently, he holds the record as the longest-serving, 
active morning radio broadcaster in our state. He is recognized as one 
of the foremost historians of Norwich. More importantly, he is loved 
and respected by residents across eastern Connecticut for his tireless 
efforts on behalf of their communities over three decades. I join them 
in saying thank you. We look forward to tuning in for many years to 
come.

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