[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 68 (Tuesday, June 6, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E899-E900]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               JIM COLLINS: A HALF CENTURY OF JOURNALISM

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                       HON. STEVEN C. LaTOURETTE

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 6, 2000

  Mr. LaTOURETTE.  Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Jim 
Collins and his 50 years in journalism.

[[Page E900]]

  While Jim has been a journalist for a half century, his interest and 
employment in newspapers actually dates back to 1941, when he began his 
career as a News-Herald delivery boy. Jim wasn't even a teenager yet, 
and the paper cost 6 cents for twice-weekly delivery. Jim went on to 
graduate from Willoughby Union High School and Kent State University, 
and returned to the News-Herald after receiving his degree in June 
1950. By then, Jim had shed the title of delivery boy and begun his 
career as a cub reporter.
  Mr. Speaker, I certainly don't wish to draw undue attention to Jim's 
age, but I think it is worth noting other important milestones of 1950 
so folks have some perspective about how long Jim has been a working 
journalist. The same year Jim became a reporter, Peanuts debuted, Alger 
Hiss was convicted, the first telephone answering machine was invented, 
Diner's Club became the first credit card, CBS began broadcasting in 
color, the first leak-proof ballpoint pen was introduced by PaperMate, 
Paul Harvey began broadcasting nationally on radio, and Silly Putty was 
introduced. Back then, it cost 3 cents to mail a letter, gas was 20 
cents a gallon, and the average income was about $3,200 a year. My 
guess is Jim made less than this, however, as journalists certainly 
don't enter the field for generous paychecks.
  Jim stayed at the News-Herald until 1952, when he was drafted for a 
two-year tour of duty in the U.S. Army. After serving his country with 
honor, Jim returned to the field of journalism and eventually made it 
back to his home, the News-Herald. Jim has worked tirelessly since then 
and quickly ascended to the brass ring of newspaper management. He has 
been editor of the News-Herald since 1967, and has overseen its 
tremendous growth and development.
  Over the last 50 years, Jim has received many prestigious awards for 
his writing, and his weekly column is a must-read for anyone who cares 
about what's happening in the news. He also is about the most prolific 
commentary writer you're likely to find, and has made his mark by 
offering common-sense solutions to state, local and national problems. 
As great as Jim's accomplishments are in journalism, however, they pale 
in comparison to what he has done for our local communities. As editor 
of the News-Herald, Jim has had a constant presence in the communities 
the paper covers, and has always been actively involved in civic and 
philanthropic activities. He is respected by all who know him.
  Mr. Speaker, I feel honored to have known Jim Collins all the years 
I've been a public servant, and even a few before then. He is one of 
the most kind, fair, humble and caring men I've ever met. He is an 
exceptional journalist and an even better man. His word is his honor. 
On behalf of the 19th Congressional District of Ohio, I congratulate 
Jim Collins on his 50 years in journalism, and wish him well as he 
continues to devote his life to the profession he loves so dearly.

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