[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 55 (Wednesday, April 21, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E725-E726]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


          HONORING MR. JOHN P. VASSAK FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SUE W. KELLY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 21, 1999

  Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a very special person. This 
morning I have the

[[Page E726]]

pleasure of meeting the North Salem Middle School's 8th Grade Class on 
the steps of the U.S. House of Representatives.
  This is not the first time I have met with the fine young men and 
women of the middle school. What makes this visit so extraordinary is 
that this year marks the 25th time Mr. John P. Vassak--a dedicated 
social studies teacher--has personally escorted his classes to our 
nation's capitol.
  By investing his time year after year to bring his students to 
Washington, DC he excites their minds and instills in them a greater 
understanding for how our government works. He is able to show them the 
Capitol, the Supreme Court and the White House while he teaches the 
importance of the checks and balances in the three branches of our 
government. He is also able to point out the various monuments to our 
heroes who have served to protect the freedom we all enjoy.
  Through his generosity of time and talents, Mr. Vassak has 
exemplified the pride for our nation and instills in these children the 
respect for our democracy it so deserves. These children will 
understand the foundation of our government and their rights and 
responsibilities in our democracy. Because of Mr. Vassak's dedication, 
they will forever be better citizens. Congratulations to you, Mr. 
Vassak.

                          ____________________