[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 156 (Sunday, September 28, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2118]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE JERRY WELLER AND THE HONORABLE RAY LaHOOD

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. JERRY F. COSTELLO

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 25, 2008

  Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to 
join me in honoring the distinguished career of Jerry Weller, who will 
be retiring at the end of the 110th Congress. I wish to express my 
appreciation for his service to our country and the state of Illinois.
  Jerry was elected to Congress in 1994 as the representative of the 
11th District of Illinois. He began his public service career working 
as a Congressional and Administration aide, followed by three terms in 
the Illinois General Assembly. He has used his seat on the Ways and 
Means Committee to make a strong, positive difference for families in 
Illinois and throughout the United States.
  Jerry has worked on a number of initiatives important to Illinois' 
families, including his efforts to enhance Illinois' infrastructure, 
establish and expand veterans' outpatient clinics, and protect children 
from on-line predators. Jerry was instrumental in passing legislation 
to redevelop the Joliet Arsenal in 1995, which created thousands of 
union jobs by establishing North America's largest intermodal truck, 
rail, and freight facility. He is a tireless advocate for the needs of 
his constituents and his country.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in an expression of 
appreciation to Congressman Weller for his years of dedicated service 
to this body and to the people of Illinois. I wish Jerry and his family 
the very best in the future.

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