[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 72 (Tuesday, May 12, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E675]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF HAROLD CUMMINGS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 12, 2015

  Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in sadness to honor the life 
of a friend, neighbor, and local stalwart from the Town of Vernon, 
Harold ``Hal'' Cummings, who passed away this month.
  Most recently, Hal served as town attorney in Vernon, but he held a 
number of local positions over the years including the Conservation 
Commission, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Board of 
Education. He was also involved in his local church and Rotary Club and 
was a founding member of the local Chamber of Commerce. This list of 
accomplishments demonstrates that Hal held the well-being of Vernon, 
Connecticut close to his heart. Hal, his wife Isabel and their children 
Jay, Joel, and Justin fostered a commitment to community that runs deep 
through their family and is felt profoundly by Vernon residents. Hal's 
passing is a loss for our town and the many local employees and 
advocates who relied on his experience and advice.
  While Harold had long served as the town's top Republican as the 
Chairman of the Republican Town Committee, he and I shared a mutual 
respect and friendship that transcended party affiliation. My respect 
for Harold stemmed from his unwavering and long-standing commitment to 
the betterment of our community, and from the many times we worked 
together to make progress in the town of Vernon.
  Hal's record of military service, as well as that of his son Joel, 
was a source of great pride for him. After I was elected to Congress, 
he always made positive, informed comments on military policy, the 
stresses of active duty service, and the need to help America's 
veterans. Hal was a staunch supporter of the New England Civil War 
museum, one of Vernon's most treasured destinations--yet another 
example of his widespread involvement in our community.
  Harold was known throughout Vernon for his positivity, and his hard 
work to keep our town running smoothly. I ask my colleagues to join me 
in remembering the life and achievements of Harold Cummings, and 
expressing our deepest condolences to his friends and family.

                          ____________________