[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 106 (Friday, July 29, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1669]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   CONGRATULATING MAYOR GEORGE PABEY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 28, 2005

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that 
I congratulate Mayor George Pabey for being honored as 2005 East 
Chicagoan of the Year. For sixteen years, Twin City Community Services 
in East Chicago, Indiana, has awarded this title to prominent members 
of the community who have greatly contributed to the city and people of 
East Chicago. This year's festivities will take place on Friday, August 
5, 2005, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in East Chicago.
  George is a native of East Chicago, Indiana. At a young age his 
parents taught him the importance of hard work, accountability, and 
community service. His strong family values set the tone for his life 
and career. These values paved the way for George's decision to serve 
the people of East Chicago. In 1972, he decided to become a police 
officer with the East Chicago Police Department. George quickly rose 
through the ranks and his hard work and dedication did not go 
unnoticed. He served in the Narcotics Unit and was instrumental in 
developing the city's Gang Unit. In 1990, he was appointed Chief of 
Police. After he retired from the East Chicago Police Department in 
1997, he was appointed Director of Security for a nationally known 
casino located in East Chicago, Indiana.
  George's political career began in 1999. After campaigning on a 
platform of providing safer streets, reinvigorating neighborhoods and 
empowering people, George was elected to East Chicago's Common Council. 
Throughout his career, he earned praise for his leadership and 
integrity. On October 26, 2004, George made history and became the 
first Hispanic democrat to rise to the standing of Democratic nominee 
for Mayor of the City of East Chicago.
  The Knights of Columbus Hall will be filled Friday night with friends 
and family who have been blessed with the opportunity to know and work 
with George and who wish to celebrate with him as he receives his 
award. George's hard work and dedication, which have earned him the 
East Chicagoan of the Year award, have been improving the community and 
the lives of East Chicagoans for over twenty years. Though he is 
dedicated to his career and the community of East Chicago, he has never 
limited his time and love for his family. George and his wife, Hilda, 
have two children, Maria Lisete and Anthony, and two grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in congratulating Mayor George Pabey on being recognized as 
East Chicagoan of the Year. It is my privilege to extend my personal 
thanks to Mayor Pabey for his lifelong dedication to the citizens of 
the First Congressional District of Indiana.

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