[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 138 (Tuesday, October 6, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H9651]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO GAIL BETHARD OF SOMERSET COUNTY 4-H

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pappas) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Gail Bethard 
upon her retirement from 18 years of service to the Somerset County, 
New Jersey 4-H Youth Development Program. During this week, which is 
National 4-H Week, it seems fitting to pay tribute to a woman who has 
devoted so much time, so much of her life to making the 4-H program 
such a success.
  While working as a middle school mathematics teacher, Gail initially 
joined 4-H as a volunteer with her husband Wilson over 23 years ago. 
She then became involved with 4-H on a part-time basis until she became 
a full-time Program Associate. Gail has overseen the youth public 
speaking program, which quickly became widely-recognized and respected 
around New Jersey. In addition, she has been a liaison for the 
individual 4-H clubs, assisting them with daily operations and inter-
group projects.
  If these tasks were not enough, Gail's involvement with 4-H expanded 
as she began to coordinate the annual Somerset County 4-H fair. For the 
past 14 years, Gail has overseen and organized the 400 plus volunteers 
who assist with exhibits, demonstrations, and other highlights of the 
three-day fair. She has, indeed, made the 4-H fair an event for all of 
us to enjoy.
  Gail has been described by her peers as respected, a good mentor, and 
someone who has always been there for all the clubs. We are all 
indebted to Gail for her commitment to helping all of those involved 
with 4-H, especially the young people.
  I have enjoyed her advice and assistance in working with Somerset 
County's great 4-H'ers. I thank Gail Bethard for her dedication to 
Somerset County 4-H and wish her happiness in her retirement and happy 
trails during her much anticipated travels with her husband Wilson.
  The Somerset County 4-H program is better because of Gail Bethard and 
her extra-special treatment of all those she comes in contact with. She 
will be missed by hundreds of people who respect and love her for not 
just what she has done but because of who she is.

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