[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 146 (Friday, October 17, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2073]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO OTHELL BALLAGE

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 17, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn heart that I rise before 
you today to pay tribute to the memory of a remarkable citizen from my 
district. Othell Ballage of Pueblo, Colorado was a leader in his 
community and a friend to many. Sadly, he recently passed away at the 
age of 74. As his family and friends mourn his passing, I would like to 
remember Othell for his kind heart and generous spirit.
  Othell was transferred to Pueblo by the U.S. Army and stationed at 
the Chemical Depot over thirty years ago. Having seen much of the world 
during his time in the Army, Othell decided Pueblo would be a good 
place to call home upon retiring from the service in 1975. It was then 
that Othell chose to realign his sights from national service to a more 
regional focus. After his days in the Army, accomplishing what would be 
considered a lifetime of achievements for most, Othell began to leave 
his mark on Pueblo. For the next twenty years, Othell pursued his goals 
in both higher education and public service. He received a Bachelor of 
Science degree in business administration from the University of 
Maryland in 1982 and went on to earn a Master's degree in management 
from Pacific Western University in 1996. Othell also worked as a 
counselor for the Colorado Job Training Program and served on numerous 
boards, including those of the NAACP and the Pueblo Human Rights 
Commission, as well as the Governor's Task Force on Drunk Driving.
  Mr. Speaker, the city of Pueblo and its citizens have lost a truly 
outstanding citizen and friend. Even more impressive than his numerous 
contributions to the community was Othell's role as a loving husband, 
father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Othell was a remarkable 
citizen and he will certainly be missed. I am honored to pay tribute to 
his life here today.

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