[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 79 (Wednesday, June 15, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1236]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO MRS. LIZ KOVACH, FOR HER 50 YEAR COMMITMENT TO PORT COLUMBUS 
                         INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DEBORAH PRYCE

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 15, 2005

  Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize 
the tremendous achievement of Liz Kovach, a successfull and respected 
employee at the Port Columbus International Airport. As an ambassador 
to the Airport Authority and Columbus, Ohio she has represented Eastern 
Airlines, Continental Airlines and America West for half a century with 
first class style.
  Mrs. Kovach began her career at Port Columbus exactly 50 years ago 
today working for Eastern Airlines at the old terminal on Fifth Avenue. 
In late 1990, when Eastern Airlines declared bankruptcy, Liz's 
diligence and dedication were greatly appreciated when she assisted 
with the liquidation of the airline's assets before being hired by 
Continental Airlines in April of 1991. Her career again took off in 
November of 1992 when she accepted a new position with America West. 
Her effervescent character and strong intellect were recognized in 
1993, as she was honored by America West as the Best of the Best 
Employees. She was one of only two customer service representatives to 
receive the honor out of 10,000 employees.
  In Liz's 50 year commitment to Port Columbus, she has been witness to 
the transformation of the airline industry. She has seen the airport 
rise to ``international status,'' its entrance into the Jet age, 
concourse and runway expansion, and the completion of the new state-of-
the-art control tower.
  Mrs. Kovach, respectively known as ``Mama Liz,'' is revered by her 
colleagues as someone you can always count on for a smile and kind 
words. She has been described as an irreplaceable talent to the 
customer service team. In addition to her noted superior work ethic and 
admirable character, she has been very active with the Columbus Zoo. 
Through her perseverance, she negotiated the travel of rare animals by 
plane to be brought to the zoo.
  I am grateful for the time, commitment and grace Liz has given to 
Port Columbus International Airort and her community. She exemplifies 
what public service and professionalism are all about.

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