[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 173 (Thursday, December 13, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2288]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMENDING MR. JAMES D. RUTH, CITY MANAGER OF ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CHRISTOPHER COX

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 12, 2001

  Mr. COX of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. James 
D. Ruth, City Manager of Anaheim, California, who is ending his 45 year 
career in public service at the end of this year.
  After serving in several California municipalities, Jim came to 
Orange County in 1976 to serve the City of Anaheim as the Parks, 
Recreation, and Community Services Director. He later served as Deputy 
City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and, finally, as City Manager. 
Jim's outstanding services in all of these positions has earned him 
numerous awards, including being named ``Orange County Manager of the 
Year'' and ``Anaheim Rotarian of the Decade.''
  With almost twelve years of dedicated service as the City Manager for 
Anaheim, which is the tenth largest city in California, Jim Ruth has 
invigorated Anaheim into an internationally renowned tourist community. 
Under his leadership, the City of Anaheim became a major contributor to 
California's booming tourism and entertainment industry.
  Most recently, Jim successfully led the city's efforts to establish 
the Anaheim Resort District, including a multi-million dollar expansion 
of the Anaheim Convention Center and the creation of the new Disney 
``California Adventure'' theme park. Jim also served as the city's 
chief negotiator in the construction of the Arrowhead Pond, home of the 
National Hockey League's Anaheim Mighty Ducks and hundreds of other 
special events. This concert and sports venue is now second only to 
Madison Square Garden in New York City in number of events. And, just 
across the street, Jim paved the way for the renovation of Edison 
Field, home of Major League Baseball's Anaheim Angels.
  Jim's expertise on city issues was invaluable. He improved the 
quality of life and standard of conducting business in Anaheim. His 
contributions to numerous industry, civic, and social organizations 
throughout Orange County will benefit its residents for years to come.
  Today, I join my fellow California colleagues to thank Jim for all of 
his hard work and dedication. I also wish to thank Jim's wife, Linda, 
who is a public servant in her own right. In behalf of the United 
States Congress and all of the people of Orange County whom it is my 
privilege to represent, congratulations to Jim Ruth on his successful 
term as the City Manager of Anaheim, and best wishes for a well-
deserved retirement.

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