[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 79 (Friday, June 8, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1062]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JOHN SPARKS

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. LOUISE McINTOSH SLAUGHTER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 8, 2001

  Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, to my great dismay, John Sparks, Vice 
President of Public and Government Affairs, will soon conclude nine 
years of outstanding service to the American Symphony Orchestra League. 
While the League's membership includes more than 900 orchestras, and 
some 3,000 individuals, artist agencies, trustees, and volunteers, 
John's work has reached far beyond the music and arts community to 
benefit the nation at large. I would like to take a few moments to 
recognize the outstanding work that John has accomplished over almost a 
decade of service.
  In particular, John has distinguished himself as an advocate for the 
right of nonprofit organizations and individual citizens to voice their 
concerns about public policy. When some sought legislation to limit the 
ability of America's charities to communicate with legislators, John 
was instrumental in leading the effort that ultimately protected this 
basic right. With the publication of ``Best Defense: a Guide for 
Orchestra Advocates,'' he literally wrote the book on civic 
participation in arts policy. And, his regular contributions to 
SYMPHONY Magazine have provided readers nationwide with thoughtful 
inquiry and evenhanded analysis of emerging public policy, while 
persistently professing the responsibility of every individual to 
actively participate in the public sector.
  I would also like to recognize John's extraordinary contributions in 
the areas of nonprofit and arts policy. He has tirelessly defended 
federal support for the National Endowment for the Arts through years 
of challenges, and has expertly represented the concerns of orchestras 
and their audiences in an uncommonly diverse array of policy areas, 
ranging from postal rates to tax policy.
  John's tenacity, sincerity, political acumen, and keen sense of 
humor, are indeed rare qualities to be found in one person. I express 
my sincere thanks to John Sparks for his invaluable work on behalf of 
orchestras, the arts, non-profit organizations, and our country.

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