[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 38 (Thursday, March 6, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E330]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN HONOR OF ANDY WILLNER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 6, 2008

  Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Andy Willner's 
lasting contributions and dedication while serving as NY/NJ Baykeeper 
Executive Director. Mr. Willner's commitment to safeguarding the 
Hudson-Raritan Estuary helped eliminate pollution and restored 
efficiency in the estuary's streams and shores for almost twenty years.
  In March Mr. Willner will retire after eighteen years of service as 
Baykeeper. On March 7, 2008, at the Liberty House Restaurant in Liberty 
State Park, the Baykeeper's Founders Fete will honor Mr. Willner for 
all he has done in keeping New Jersey and New York waterways safe.
  Mr. Willner began his distinguished career as a sailing vessel 
captain, city planner and boat builder. He has always concerned himself 
with environmental issues and has thus participated in numerous 
conferences concerning shore protection and keeping our harbors safe.
  Later, he served as member on the Dredge Materials Management Work 
Group and the Hackensack Meadowlands Special Area Management Plan among 
the various environmental organizations he was a part of. Mr. Willner 
has received many renowned awards for his work including the ``Hero of 
the Harbor'' Award as well as the Stewardship Recognition Award from 
the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
  Mr. Willner began his work with the NY/NJ Baykeeper in 1989 and has 
served as Executive Director for eighteen years. His work with the 
Baykeeper included bringing attention to coastal issues, protecting our 
shores, and eliminating pollution in our waters. With the momentous 
efforts of Andy Willner, the Hudson-Raritan Estuary has been kept safe 
and protected for nearly twenty years.
  Madam Speaker, I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in 
celebrating the work of Andy Willner. His continual efforts to keep our 
waters protected will continue to benefit and inspire the people of New 
Jersey.

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