[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 41 (Thursday, March 13, 2003)]
[House]
[Page H1885]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING ERNIE BARKA

  (Mr. BRADLEY of New Hampshire asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BRADLEY of New Hampshire. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay 
tribute to a dedicated New Hampshire resident who has devoted over 30 
years of his life to public service, Mr. Ernie Barka.
  Ernie passed away Monday, March 10, at the age of 80. He was a true 
civic leader in his community, devoting his life to others and 
improving the quality of life for residents, not only in his hometown 
but all over southern New Hampshire. He worked tirelessly to help those 
less fortunate and was a champion for the elderly and for children.
  The son of Lebanese immigrants, Ernie learned strong family values 
and the importance of respect for others while working in his parents' 
grocery store. The strong work ethic instilled by his parents during 
his childhood carried over to all aspects of his adult life, 
particularly in his community and civic involvement.
  Ernie served most recently as Rockingham County Commissioner and was 
a former State representative and former school board member in the 
town of Derry.
  Ernie is credited with launching the Meals on Wheels program in 
Rockingham County. Leaders like Ernie exemplify the true spirit of 
civic responsibility and he will be truly missed. His efforts to make 
New Hampshire a better place to live have made a lasting impact on the 
people of New Hampshire that both knew him and knew of him. I am happy 
to have called Ernie my friend.

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