[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 68 (Friday, May 26, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E977]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO CITY OF GAITHERSBURG

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                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 25, 2006

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the City of 
Gaithersburg on its tenth anniversary as a ``CHARACTER COUNTS! City.''
  Gaithersburg exemplifies the six pillars of a ``CHARACTER COUNTS! 
City''--trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and 
citizenship. Today, Gaithersburg celebrates its continued success in 
serving its citizens and teaching its children the importance of good 
character.
  The CHARACTER COUNTS! program in Gaithersburg began in a meeting room 
filled with parents and children eager to learn the pillars of the 
program. In just over 10 years, the ideals of CHARACTER COUNTS! have 
spread through businesses and schools. Today, Gaithersburg has 
experienced the benefits of ethical education and has grounded the 
goals of the City in the ethical framework of the CHARACTER COUNTS! 
program.
  Through learning and focusing on customer needs, Gaithersburg seeks 
to continue the honest and open communication that has helped it become 
a nationally renowned city. Gaithersburg utilizes creativity and fiscal 
responsibility to promote its health and excellence. All of the people 
of Gaithersburg--city officials, employees, neighborhood and 
governmental agencies--strive to continuously improve the City through 
cooperation and an increased emphasis on customer service, which allows 
community needs to be identified and met.
  By maintaining the best aspects of a small town while implementing 
the most advanced new technologies, Gaithersburg has a diverse array of 
wonderful characteristics. The residents of Gaithersburg benefit from 
safe neighborhoods and diverse transportation options. Elected 
officials have united to create a favorable business environment and to 
preserve beautiful parks and public places. Gaithersburg is justifiably 
proud of its family-friendly environment and a citizenry that possesses 
a strong sense of community and individual responsibility.
  I am pleased to honor the City of Gaithersburg for its outstanding 
commitment to values in its governance and daily life. Gaithersburg is 
a great place to live, work, learn and play, and I congratulate it on 
its tenth anniversary as a CHARACTER COUNTS! City.

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