[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 119 (Tuesday, September 28, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1718]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      THANKING MICHAELS OF OREGON

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. C.L. ``BUTCH'' OTTER

                                of idaho

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 28, 2004

  Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to relate an inspiring story of 
support from the people of Idaho, from a community in my district, for 
our brave troops being deployed to Iraq.
  On August 17, I had the opportunity to visit with some of my 
constituents at a business in the community of Meridian. The Michaels 
of Oregon plant in Meridian is a quality manufacturer of gun cleaners, 
holsters and related equipment for law enforcement personnel and other 
first responders.
  During my tour, General Manufacturing Manager Brian Schroeder handed 
me a manila envelope. It turns out the employees knew I would be coming 
out to the plant, so they took up a collection and asked that I get the 
money in that envelope to the USO to help our troops in the Idaho 
National Guard's 116th Cavalry Brigade.
  As I walked through the plant, I also met Michaels employee Sandra 
Zimmer, whose son had just returned from Kuwait, and Michelle 
Carskaddon, whose father was in Iraq. Everyone I met wanted me to pass 
on to our men and women in uniform just how proud they are of our 
troops and how proud they are to be Americans.
  Let me tell you, I never had a more meaningful visit, and I was never 
prouder to be an Idahoan. But the thing is, the folks at Michaels are 
not unique. Meridian, Idaho--like communities all across America--is 
filled with individuals who care about each other, care about those who 
serve in our Armed Forces, and care about our country.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor and privilege to represent people 
like that here in the United States House of Representatives. Please 
join me in thanking the good people at Michaels of Oregon. They are to 
be commended for their citizenship, patriotism and generosity.

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