[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 144 (Thursday, November 3, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2266]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO THE 29TH ANNUAL ASIAN-AMERICAN CHARITY BALL

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 3, 2005

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to announce 
that the Asian-American Medical Association will be hosting the 29th 
Annual Asian-American Charity Ball on Saturday, November 5, 2005, at 
the Avalon Manor in Hobart, Indiana. Each year, the Asian-American 
Medical Association honors prominent, extraordinary citizens for their 
contributions to the community. In recognition of their tremendous 
efforts, these individuals are honored at the banquet and awarded the 
prestigious Crystal Globe Award.
  The Asian American Medical Association is a great asset to Northwest 
Indiana. This organization has dedicated itself to providing quality 
service to the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District and 
has demonstrated exemplary service in its cultural, scholastic, and 
charitable endeavors.
  At this year's annual charity gala, the Asian-American Medical 
Association will present Mr. Gus Olympidis with the Crystal Globe 
award. Gus is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Family 
Express Corporation based in Valparaiso, Indiana. He currently serves 
as a Director and a member of the Executive Committee of Centier Bank. 
He is also a Director of the Valparaiso Community Development 
Corporation, Director of the Northwest Indiana Forum, and Director of 
Valparaiso University's College of Business Administration Advisory 
Council. He also serves on the Porter County Foundation Board.
  Amongst Gus's many positive accomplishments throughout his civic and 
convenience store industry engagements, he has also taken on the role 
of President of the Valparaiso Parks and Recreation Foundation, 
Chairman of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, and was a member of the 
Valparaiso University Town and Gown committee and a Board member on the 
Regional Development Authority Committee. I am honored to commend Gus 
for his commitment and dedication to the well being of those who seek 
his knowledge and leadership. His efforts and hard work are worthy of 
the highest recognition.
  Although Gus's career consumes much of his time, Gus has never 
limited the time he gives to his most important interest, his family. 
He and his wife, Beth, have three children and two grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in commending the Asian American Medical Society and Gus 
Olympidis for their outstanding contributions to the community. Their 
commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest 
Indiana and throughout the world is truly inspirational and should be 
recognized and commended.

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