[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 60 (Thursday, May 5, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E815]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING MR. TOM BRIAN'S DISTINGUISHED CAREER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DAVID WU

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 5, 2011

  Mr. WU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Tom Brian, former 
Chair of the Washington County Board of Commissioners. Chair Brian 
retired after 12 years with Washington County, Oregon, and more than 30 
years of service to our community.
  Tom embarked on an exemplary term as Chair of the Washington County 
Commission in 1998. Over the next 12 years, Tom spearheaded numerous 
projects, including the establishment of L.L. ``Stub'' Stewart State 
Park and the opening of the Westside Express Service (WES) Commuter 
line. Tom was a noted listener and consensus builder who focused on the 
needs of his constituents and worked tirelessly to address their 
issues. He approached his work with integrity and a true sense of 
dedication.
  Tom's foresight helped make Washington County an attractive place to 
live and do business. His leadership on projects like the Scoggins Dam 
raise will be missed. Tom has encouraged and empowered his community to 
continue the work he started and I know his spirit of service will 
continue to inspire all citizens of Washington County.
  Former Oregon Governor Tom McCall said, ``Heroes are not giant 
statues framed against a red sky. They are people who say, this is my 
community, and it is my responsibility to make it better.'' Tom Brian 
truly is an American hero, for he has devoted much of his life to 
making his community better.
  It is an honor to recognize Chair Brian for his service and for 
providing a heroic example to us all.

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