[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 4 (Friday, January 23, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E43]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 AGREEING WITH THE SENTIMENT OF THE SENATE REGARDING THE DEATH OF THE 
                          HONORABLE PAUL SIMON

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. WILLIAM O. LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 21, 2004

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and pay tribute 
to the legacy of my dear friend and outstanding colleague, Senator Paul 
Simon. A man of great character, deep integrity, and relentless 
fortitude, Paul Simon graced the stage of Illinois politics for 43 
years leaving an indelible mark on the face of American government and 
the hearts of the people of Illinois.
  Beginning as a small-town newspaper editor in Troy, Illinois, Paul 
Simon quickly left his mark on the minds of Illinoisans with his 
corruption-busting headlines and head turning liberalism. In 1954, Paul 
Simon embarked on his legendary political journey. First as a member of 
the Illinois State Legislature to lieutenant governor to Member of 
Congress to eventual Presidential aspirant, Paul Simon became a 
steadfast figure in the tomes of political history.
  Quietly and honestly he garnered the respect and appreciation of 
millions of voters and his many colleagues across the political 
spectrum. He efficiently championed literacy, hunger, immigration, 
budget reforms, missing children's programs, and higher education. 
Senator Simon embraced change, pioneered for reform, and challenged a 
system that he sought to make better.
  As a Member of the House and Senate, he advocated for a balanced 
budget, endeavored to overhaul the federal student loan program so all 
young people could have a chance at college, and was instrumental in 
leading efforts to curb television violence and protect America's 
exploited children.
  Genuinely concerned for the future of America and our culture, 
Senator Simon served as a role model for public service and the 
conscience of the Senate. Paul Simon challenged America to reach out to 
people within our nation and make sure opportunity existed here for 
everyone.
  With his retirement from the Senate in 1996, Senator Simon founded 
the Public Policy Institute of Southern Illinois University to impart 
his knowledge and political wisdom on future generations. He believed 
honesty and integrity were the cornerstones of character and the 
makings of a great politician were based on these virtues. It is by 
these virtues he is remembered and honored as one of America's greatest 
political icons.
  Mr. Speaker, Senator Simon was a man of great dignity, honor, and 
passion. Respected and loved by all, he is remembered fondly across all 
parties in all circles of government and in the hearts of millions. 
Senator Simon will be greatly missed and it is our duty and our honor 
to remember his 43 years of public service to Illinois and the 
integrity he brought to this nation. He will never be forgotten.

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