[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 45 (Monday, March 22, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E503]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 HONORING JOAN AND STANFORD ALEXANDER--DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARD 
                            1999 RECIPIENTS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN BENTSEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 22, 1999

  Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Joan and Stanford Alexander 
for their outstanding contributions to the American Israel Public 
Affairs Committee in both Houston and nationally.
  An underlying principle of AIPAC is that dedicated individuals can 
make a difference in Israel's future by strengthening relations between 
America and Israel. The Alexanders' work on behalf of this goal is 
nothing short of exceptional. The Melvin A. Dow Distinguished 
Leadership Award was established in 1998 to honor those individuals who 
have had a powerful impact on the Houston pro-Israel community. On 
March 29, 1999 AIPAC presents the Melvin A. Dow Distinguished 
Leadership Award to Joan and Stanford Alexander.
  The Alexanders embody leadership and altruism that is inspiring. Joan 
and Stanford have been highly involved with AIPAC for many years, both 
on local and national levels. Joan served as South Texas State co-
Chair, promoting grassroots awareness of the organization, and both are 
instrumental in the growth of its membership base. They also have 
participated in the National Council and currently serve on the 
National Executive Committee, where they work with top AIPAC leadership 
from across the country in establishing AIPAC national policy and 
objectives. Additionally, they have played a major role in the 
University of Houston Jewish Studies Program, the Houston Food Bank, 
S.E.A.R.C.H. House of Tiny Treasures and Dress for Success. Through 
their efforts of lobbying and educating key elected officials, the 
Alexanders have developed outstanding personal relationships with 
members of Congress, the Administration, and State officials as well.
  The Alexanders have been involved in AIPAC for over two decades. They 
have recognized that Israel's security could not be guaranteed by 
philanthropy alone and the involvement of the United States Congress 
would be vital to maintaining Israel's economic prosperity and national 
security in the Middle East. Whether hosting Senators in their home to 
discuss policy issues or traveling to Washington, DC, to lobby a 
Congressman, the Alexanders are activists who have turned their passion 
for the State of Israel into action on behalf of a strong alliance 
between the two countries in whose ideals and foundations they so 
strongly believe.
  It is a great tribute to Joan and Stanford Alexander that AIPAC is 
bestowing them with the 1999 Melvin A. Dow Distinguished Leadership 
Award. Their achievements are an inspiration to the numerous leaders 
who work tirelessly to strengthen our community and our relations with 
the state of Israel.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Joan and Stanford Alexander on receiving 
the Melvin A. Dow Distinguished Leadership Award. Their service to our 
country and Houston will not be forgotten.

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