[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 11 (Friday, January 19, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E154]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN RECOGNITION OF DON SCHIRMER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 19, 2007

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Don 
Schirmer and his many years of service to the community of Maple 
Heights as a high school varsity football referee. Don's five decades 
of tireless dedication to the game of football is a testament to his 
heartfelt love of sports and the Maple Heights community.
  Don began his tenure as a referee in 1954 in Maple Heights, where his 
knowledge of sports translated into a position as a varsity official. 
Over the years, the students playing the game changed, but their 
referee, Don Schirmer, remained a staple of the community. Through all 
the victories, losses, and dramatic twists of the sport, one man has 
stood behind it all.
  More than just a referee, Don served as a pillar of his community by 
volunteering, often cooking for the homeless. It is this spirit of 
giving, sharing, and brotherly love that Don Schirmer has contributed 
to the community of Maple Heights. A modest man of many 
accomplishments, Don can count being an umpire in Major League 
Baseball, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, and the Captain of the Maple 
Heights Fire Department all as notches in his all-American belt of 
experience.
  Even at the ripe age of 79, Don's energy, passion, and love of life 
are at an all-time high. An avid hunter, Don is giving up his striped 
referee uniform for an orange vest. Though nearly an octogenarian, his 
zesty vigor keeps him active in the outdoors.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Don Schirmer 
as a true American sportsman. His undying presence on the field has 
been a joy, honor, and privilege to the students of Maple Heights for 
over 50 years.

                          ____________________