[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 54 (Thursday, April 3, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E682]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN RECOGNITION OF MR. HARRY B. NISSLEY

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                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 3, 2003

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Harry B. 
Nissley, a local hero in my community who has dedicated over 50 years 
of his life to educating and inspiring our students.
  Mr. Nissley worked as a tennis coach for the El Monte Union High 
School District from 1946 until his retirement in 2001. Over the course 
of his career, he has received numerous honors, including the San 
Gabriel Valley Administration Association's Service Award and the 
California Interscholastic Federation Award. But most enduring is the 
imprint he has left on the lives of hundreds of students, athletes and 
peers. Mr. Nissley's enthusiasm, caring and dedication is exemplary of 
a great educator.
  Mr. Nissley went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure that 
students were given every opportunity to excel. Every spring, he hosted 
the Keeley Tennis tournament to help pay for student competition entry 
fees and often used his own money to help those students with financial 
hardships. Mr. Nissley's enthusiasm was only surpassed by his desire to 
enhance each student's life. He strived to instill in his students a 
strong and positive sense of self worth.
  Earlier this year, a former student and professional tennis player, 
honored Mr. Nissley by organizing an event commemorating his 
contributions. During the event, numerous former students and athletes 
praised him with kind words and fond memories.
  Mr. Nissley is now 90 years old. At the request of his students, 
colleagues, friends and family who wanted to recognize his numerous 
contributions, the community of El Monte recently nominated him for 
induction into the California Interscholastic Federation Hall of Fame. 
Not only is the number of years he taught at the El Monte Union School 
District already a state record, but his commitment and selflessness is 
immeasurable.
  I would also like to join the community of El Monte in showing my 
appreciation for Mr. Nissley by asking Congress to recognize his vast 
contributions to our youth, and outstanding dedication to service.

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