[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 126 (Tuesday, September 25, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1735]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING PAUL F. MARKS ON HIS RETIREMENT

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                          HON. JOHN D. DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 25, 2001

  Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize, honor and salute 
my dear friend Paul F. Marks on the occasion of his retirement from 
Michigan State University Agricultural Extension, and for his many 
years of dedicated service to our community.
  Paul began his career with Extension more than 27 years ago. Since 
that time, Paul has received numerous awards and citations, including 
the National Distinguished Service Award from the National Association 
of County Agricultural Agents.
  At heart, Paul is a teacher. He is recognized throughout the state 
for his expertise and skill in the areas of vegetable crops, fruit 
crops and beekeeping. In his professional capacity, he has developed 
and implemented a large number of award-winning educational programs in 
such areas as cider safety, agriculture employer seminars and pesticide 
certification.
  Paul's passion for teaching extends well beyond Extension. When 
working with kids in 4-H or the Junior Livestock Association, one can 
see Paul's gift truly shine. Paul's exemplary teaching efforts were 
again recognized when he received the Monroe County 4-H Alumni Award. 
Paul's leadership has also been outstanding in directing Monroe 
County's Ag Awareness Day that annually gives more than 1,300 county 
elementary students a better understanding and appreciation of 
agriculture. And when the County Fair rolls around each summer, you can 
be sure Paul will be there making sure that every kid has their animal 
ready for show.
  When Monroe County was added to my District in 1982, 1 gained a 
special knowledge of Paul's ability to educate. Knowing little about 
farming, I paid a visit to the Extension office and met a young 
Extension Agent by the name of Paul Marks. I asked him to do the 
impossible--teach a Polish lawyer from Detroit about farming. To his 
great credit, Paul was up to the task.
  Since then, I have come to rely greatly on Paul's advice and counsel 
on agricultural matters. More importantly, Paul has become a great 
friend. His expertise and knowledge will be greatly missed by all of 
us.
  Mr. Speaker, as Paul leaves behind a long and rich history as an 
Extension Agricultural and Natural Resources Agent to spend time with 
his beautiful wife Jeannine and his family, I would ask that all of my 
colleagues salute Paul, his excellent service to his community, his 
wonderful sense of humor and above all his earnest good will and 
compassion for his fellow man.

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