[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 160 (Thursday, November 6, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2253]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO AL HEILMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 6, 2003

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a dedicated 
and selfless individual on the eve of his retirement from public 
service, Kalamazoo's Al Heilman. Since 1968, Al has served with great 
distinction the citizens of Kalamazoo in a number of capacities--from 
being first elected to the County Board in 1968 to having served as 
City Commissioner since 1995.
  Many words come to mind as one reflects upon Al Heilman's public 
service to our community. He is selfless, generous, giving, caring, 
humble . . . the list goes on. Al is widely known for his extensive 
charitable gestures, often giving both money and time to local 
individuals, businesses, universities, and the community as a whole. 
There is no question that Al's dedication and contributions to the city 
will be missed.
  Now, Al can ``retire'' to pleasing folks with his other trade--as 
owner and operator of Heilman's Nuts and Confections. As a member of 
the business community, Al Heilman will continue to be a part of our 
everyday lives.
  Our community is in debt to Al Heilman for his continued public 
service since 1968. 1 wish him and his family all the best as he 
departs public service. Al's contributions to our community have been 
many, and we are all better off from his service. For those that know 
him, his name alone helps define public service. All those that have 
met him, like him. All those that know him, love him.

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