[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 48 (Thursday, April 27, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E639]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PAYING TRIBUTE TO HERB TOBMAN

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                           HON. JON C. PORTER

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 27, 2006

  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Herb 
Tobman, who passed away this past March. Herb was known as a successful 
businessman and a community leader and his quiet generosity that 
impacted the lives of countless Nevadans.
  Herb was born in the Bronx in 1924. In the 1950s, Herb moved to Las 
Vegas, where he opened City Furniture Exchange, the first used 
furniture store in Las Vegas. The business thrived, and it was a Las 
Vegas landmark for more than 25 years. His success as a businessman led 
Herb to start Western Cab Company in 1965. Herb started with one cab, 
and ended with more than 134 taxicabs and 355 employees.
  In addition to his business accomplishments, Herb was also an active 
participant in Nevada politics. In 1986, he ran in the Democratic 
gubernatorial primary against incumbent Richard Bryan. Instead of using 
his wealth to fuel his political aspirations, Herb limited 
contributions to $10 per individual. Needless to say, those limits put 
him at a competitive disadvantage, but Herb still managed to receive 
more than 15 percent of the primary vote.
  Herb also knew the importance of giving back to his community and 
made many charitable contributions throughout his life. However, Herb 
never sought recognition for his efforts, but he impacted almost every 
life in southern Nevada. Every year, during the holidays, Herb 
anonymously fed hundreds of homeless individuals in Las Vegas. He 
helped local children with their college expenses, and he helped people 
who were down on their luck. No challenge was too great. If Herb knew 
you needed help, he was there to provide it oftentimes unknown to his 
beneficiaries. I needed help on several occasions, and Herb was always 
available. Herb was my friend and I will miss him very much.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor the memory of Herb Tobman for his 
professional successes and distinguished philanthropic record. His 
death is a great loss to the community and he will be greatly missed. 
Nevada is a better place because of Herb.

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