[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 59 (Wednesday, April 28, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING MARTIN J. ``MARTY'' FORD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE 
                               COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 28, 1999

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand today to pay tribute to 
my good friend Marty Ford who will be honored this evening by the 
Guilford Democratic Town Committee for his contributions to the 
Guilford community.
  Like an illustration of a quaint New England town, Guilford is 
probably best known for its historic Town Green. Residents take great 
pride in the enchanting atmosphere of this growing community and work 
hard to maintain its unique character and charm. As a longtime resident 
of Guilford, Marty has devoted countless hours ensuring that the 
culture and history of the town is preserved. He has served ten years 
on the Planning and Zoning Commission, eight years on the Historic 
District Commission and sat on two Charter Revision Commissions. We 
commend his distinguished record of service.
  The political arena has served as a forum for Marty's diligent work 
to promote the values and ideas that have guided him. For decades he 
has served as a strong political supporter for candidates running for 
local, state and federal government. He cares about his community, and 
uses his talent to help elect leaders who will do the same. He has 
served twelve years on the Board of Education, helping to develop 
policies that will best serve Guilford's youth, the leaders of 
tomorrow.
  Marty is also known for his work with Guilford residents and 
community leaders. As President of the Guilford Interfaith Ministries, 
Marty's energy is directed at assisting some of the community's most 
vulnerable citizens. Under his direction, programs such as ``Meals on 
Wheels'', Friendly Visitors, and the Guilford Food Bank assist hundreds 
of people in need.
  As an active citizen of Guilford, Marty is the kind of man who 
quietly makes his town a better place. He appreciates Guilford's past 
and has a vision for its preservation for the future. If Marty sees a 
need in the community, he takes it upon himself to work toward a 
solution. At a time when many Americans are becoming bitter about 
problems that seem too great to solve, Marty is the kind of man that 
serves as an example of hope. If we continue striving for a better 
community as Marty does, we really can make a difference.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise before you today to 
join with family, friends and the town of Guilford to honor Marty Ford 
for his outstanding service to the community. His efforts are clearly 
deserving of this public recognition and gratitude. I wish him 
continued success and thank him for the high standard he has set for us 
all.

                          ____________________