[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 10 (Friday, January 25, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E62]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING PAUL PLATTNER'S CAREER OF CREATING WORK OPPORTUNITIES FOR 
                        PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 25, 2013

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Paul 
Plattner on the occasion of his retirement after 39 years of service to 
NISH and the AbilityOne Program, through which he has helped identify 
and create work opportunities for the blind and for people with 
disabilities here and in communities across America.
  Mr. Plattner began his career at NISH in 1974, working as a part-time 
bookkeeper two and a half days a month. It wasn't long before he 
advanced from that humble beginning to take on a number of other roles 
and duties, currently serving as Vice President for Operations. He has 
worked directly with, and earned the respect of, staff in every major 
federal agency. He also has developed close working relationships with 
community rehabilitation programs across the Nation.
  Under the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act, the AbilityOne Program harnesses 
the purchasing power of the Federal Government to buy products and 
services from community-based nonprofits that train and employ 
individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities. Whether it 
is performing custodial services, packing medical kits for our troops, 
working in food service or one of many other duties, AbilityOne workers 
are making a positive difference in our community. I and many of my 
colleagues here in the House, both Democrat and Republican, are 
AbilityOne Champions, and we know firsthand the positive effect this 
program has not only for the individuals and their families, but also 
for us as well.
  Mr. Plattner has dedicated his life's work to helping provide 
residents with disabilities in every community with the opportunity to 
learn new skills, to succeed in a workplace environment, and to gain 
greater independence and quality of life. Mr. Speaker, I ask my 
colleagues to join me in thanking Mr. Plattner for his heartfelt 
commitment to improving the lives of those with disabilities and in 
wishing him well in his retirement.

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