[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 145 (Thursday, September 27, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2008]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO FORMER REPRESENTATIVE CHARLES VANIK

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TIM RYAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 27, 2007

  Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay respect and 
tribute to former Rep. Charles Vanik of Ohio, who died Wednesday August 
31 at his home in Jupiter, Florida at age 94.
  Looking back at the career and mission of Representative Vanik, it is 
an utterly refreshing example of a legislator who didn't let politics 
get in the way of his goals and vision for his constituents and people 
all over the world. Many of my colleagues have already mentioned the 
historic Jackson-Vanik amendment to the Trade Reform Act of 1974. This 
critical human rights legislation was the mark on the map for Charles 
Vanik with regards to those outside the state of Ohio, but for us 
Ohioans, we know Congressman Vanik as a lifelong stalwart for all of 
those who are socially and economically oppressed.
  Charles Vanik led a life of complete selflessness. After receiving 
his law degree he was on the City Council and in the Ohio legislature 
where he was valued for his consistent effort and achievements. He then 
joined the Navy during World War II. After his time in the service, 
Charles Vanik became a municipal judge until 1954 when he first ran for 
Congress. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee with jurisdiction 
over tax law, Congressman Vanik was known for his fights against big 
business tax breaks in the halls and corridors of Congress as he was 
known for his signature bow ties.
  Congressman Vanik served honorably and long as a dedicated public 
servant. Mr. Vanik, who had rarely spent little more than $3,000 for 
any of his re-election bids, became increasingly discouraged with the 
changing political world and the need to siphon time and resources away 
from addressing the concerns of his constituents. He chose not to run 
for re-election in 1980.
  Charles Vanik's life and his commitment to principle are truly 
remarkable. I believe one of the most important things we should learn 
from the actions and words of Charles Vanik is to constantly hold 
ourselves to the highest possible standards, no matter what the 
political environment or what criticism you might face. The United 
States Congress and the state of Ohio will miss one of its greatest 
public officials, Congressman Charles Vanik.

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