[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 125 (Friday, September 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1941-E1942]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING MICHAEL PARENT HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 29, 2006

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Michael Parent of Eureka, California, who is being honored for his 
contribution to one of our nation's most precious rights--participation 
in the political system. Mr. Parent is being recognized for his 
outstanding contributions to the political process by the Humboldt 
County Democratic Central Committee as ``Democrat of the Year, 2006.'' 
His commitment to the preservation of our political liberty is worthy 
of appreciation and recognition.
  Mike Parent has had a long and distinguished career as an employee of 
the California Department of Forestry, serving as a Forestry Logistics 
Officer for over 29 years. During his tenure he helped to coordinate 
emergency response to wildland fires throughout the state. He was an 
exemplary employee and valued for his tenacity, organizational skills 
and commitment to duty.
  Mr. Parent has exemplified the model citizen as an active volunteer 
and member of numerous local organizations. He served as President of 
the Fortuna Kiwanis Club and President of the Board of the North Coast 
Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Eureka. He worked tirelessly for these 
organizations and helped to improve his community and the lives of many 
young people. He was also a member and served as chairman of the 
Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee for five years. During his 
tenure he re-energized the Committee's community activities and public 
events and helped to grow the membership.

[[Page E1942]]

  Mr. Parent is a native of Ohio, the oldest of 14 children. He is 
married to Barbara Ellis and father to Adam Parent, Ryan Nichols and 
Kevin and Melissa Ellis. Though retired from state service, he 
continues to offer his logistical expertise for national disasters 
through the Federal Emergency Management Administration.
  Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate at this time to recognize Michael 
Parent for his leadership and commitment to his community and to the 
people of the state of California. I would like to add my voice to that 
of the Humboldt County Democratic Club in offering thanks to Mike for 
his hard work.

                          ____________________