[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 96 (Friday, July 21, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1289]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO ELEANOR KIELISZEK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. STEVEN R. ROTHMAN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 20, 2000

  Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to a 
dear friend and a truly noteworthy and admirable community leader from 
the Township of Teaneck in my District. A few short weeks ago, Eleanor 
Kieliszek retired from her seat on the Township Council, thus ending an 
impressive political career which began in 1965.
  Beginning with her appointment as the first female member of the 
Township's Planning Board in 1965, Eleanor Kieliszek has been a 
tireless crusader for the residents of Teaneck. In 1970, Eleanor 
Kieliszek entered a 17-way race for Township Council as the only woman 
candidate. She won, Mr. Speaker, due in large part to her tireless 
energy evidenced by her constant door-to-door campaigning. Twice, from 
1974-1978 and 1990-1992, the voters elected her mayor as an expression 
of their confidence.
  A student of politics, Eleanor Kieliszek is aware that compromise and 
hard work are integral and historic parts of the American political 
system. By working with her fellow Council members, Eleanor Kieliszek 
was able to help preside of a period of unbridled economic development 
in Teaneck while ensuring that a great deal of the municipality's open 
spaces would remain in that state for perpetuity. The 350 acre Overpeck 
Park, enjoyed by so many in their leisure time, is a fine testament to 
this legacy. Mr. Speaker, Eleanor Kieliszek was also able to bring 
Teaneck together in the face of great racial tension in 1990. Many 
credit the neighborhood meetings which she helped initiate in a time of 
great concern with fostering dialogue and diversity in the community.
  Mr. Speaker, a representative democracy such as ours only thrives 
when those with strong wills and good hearts take time from their 
personal lives to give time to others around them. As the Township of 
Teaneck prepares to name a wonderfully large green area after Eleanor 
Kieliszek to honor her three decade's service to her home, I find it 
fitting for this House to rise and salute this outstanding local 
official. On the occasion of her retirement from elected life, we thank 
Eleanor Kieliszek and send her our heartiest best wishes for the 
future.

                          ____________________