[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 177 (Wednesday, December 2, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2861]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IN MEMORY OF HOWARD JACOBS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 2, 2009

  Mr. WAXMAN. Madam Speaker, as the city of West Hollywood gathers to 
celebrate the life of Howard Jacobs, I am proud to join the community 
in recognizing his accomplishments and sharing in the sadness that he 
was taken from us at such a young age.
  Howard Jacobs dedicated his life to helping people in need. His work 
with the West Hollywood City Council, the City's Disability Advisory 
Board, the Rent Stabilization Committee and most recently with First 5 
LA, demonstrates the depth and breadth of his devotion to every segment 
of society. Perhaps he will be best remembered for his activism to 
fight HIV/AIDS discrimination and educate people about prevention, 
detection and treatment.
  Howard experienced many serious health challenges in his life. When 
he was first diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1989, scientific understanding 
of the disease was still emerging, societal stigma was pervasive and a 
diagnosis was a death sentence. But Howard always rallied. He helped 
West Hollywood design model policies to reduce HIV transmission in the 
gay community. To many he seemed invincible. Even with his passing it 
is clear that he will continue to serve as an inspiration.
  In my career in public service, I have seen so many instances when 
one person--one vote--one voice can make a world of difference. Howard 
Jacobs filled that role so many times and in so many ways. We will 
forever be in his debt for the world of good he brought in the short 
time he had to give.

                          ____________________