[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 93 (Thursday, July 8, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1315]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO RUTH LARABEE ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT

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                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 7, 2004

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special 
tribute to Mrs. Ruth Larabee, upon her retirement from her position as 
the Director of the Wood County Department of Job and Family Services 
in Bowling Green, Ohio.
  Ruth Larabee grew up in the small community of Landeck, Ohio, in 
Allen County where the leadership skills which have served her well 
over the years were instilled at an early age. Ruth graduated from 
Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Ohio with majors in biology and 
physical science. Upon graduation, Ruth began her career of serving 
others by teaching Junior High School. When Ruth became a mother of 
six, she stopped teaching so that she could dedicate all her time and 
resources to raising her children.
  Mr. Speaker, as Ruth's children grew; she accepted a position with 
the WSOS Head Start Administration. It was in this capacity that she 
embarked on a career of compassion, always wanting to assist those less 
fortunate.
  Ruth accepted her current position as Director of the Wood County 
Department of Job and Family Services in 1987, where she has provided 
constant leadership. Drawing upon her past experiences, she has brought 
stability and calm to an agency which has seen tremendous change. 
Despite shifts in public policy brought on by welfare reform, demands 
for increased services for children and the growing needs of the 
unemployed, Ruth has continued to be a steadfast leader.
  As Director of the Wood County Job and Family Services, Ruth has 
displayed great leadership by effectively communicating the mission at 
hand and adapting to the ever changing world around her. Through her 
drive and leadership, Ruth has worked tirelessly to better the life of 
abused children, people in need of public housing, the elderly, and 
those desperately seeking employment. Through her 17 years of 
distinguished service to the residents of Wood County, Ruth leaves 
behind the legacy of an Agency inspired by dedication and compassion.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute 
to Mrs. Ruth Larabee. Our communities are served well by having such 
honorable and giving citizens, like Ruth, who care about their well 
being and stability. We wish Ruth and her family all the best as we pay 
tribute to one of Ohio's finest citizens.

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