[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 166 (Wednesday, November 20, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1715]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMEMORATING THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT AT THE ERIE-OTTAWA COUNTY 
                          INTERNATION AIRPORT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 20, 2013

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, this month marks the dedication of the new 
Erie-Ottawa International Airport in Port Clinton, Ohio. This new 
facility has been made possible through the Port Authority's leadership 
and the sacrifices and dedication of local citizens who understand what 
it takes to build a strong community and nation. Their contributions, 
along with a $1.7 million federal Airport Improvement Grant, have 
resulted in adding an important new facility along our precious Lake 
Erie coast for economic growth.
  To celebrate this event, citizens gathered during Veteran's Day 
weekend to mark this historic occasion at the new hanger. At the 
invitation of the airport's dedicated and visionary Director Stan 
Gebhardt, all gathered witnessed the first flight from Pelee Island, 
Canada. The plane was piloted by Griffing Flying Service president Tom 
Griffing, with passengers Erie County Commissioner Tom Farrell and 
Ottawa County Commissioner Jim Sass who worked across county lines to 
bring new growth potential to our coast. Upon landing, they were 
greeted by numerous local, state and federal officials as well as 
members of the public who marked the occasion with a special ceremony.
  In honor of the occasion, a new US flag was flown over the U.S. 
Capitol for presentation to the Airport Authority. Let me offer warmest 
congratulations to all those who piloted this significant project to 
completion. The new facility and adjacent buildings will allow for 
improved air service, more hanger storage, expanding commercial 
development around the airport's perimeter, and enhanced opportunities 
for tourism and commercial development. May the years ahead bring new 
opportunity as well as adventure to those who recognize Ohio as 
America's state where air flight began. Onward and upward!

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