[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 179 (Thursday, December 10, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1763]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING VALARIE McCALL ON THE OCCASION OF HER APPOINTMENT TO THE CHAIR 
           OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC TRANSIT ASSOCIATION (APTA)

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES B. RENACCI

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 10, 2015

  Mr. RENACCI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Ms. Valarie 
McCall on her appointment to the Chair of the American Public 
Transportation Association (APTA). APTA strengthens and improves our 
public transportation to ensure that all Americans have access to that 
option in their communities across our nation. Valarie is a great model 
for all aspiring public servants across the country, and is deserving 
of our recognition and gratitude for this achievement.
  Valarie began her distinguished public service career as the Director 
of Cleveland's Empowerment Zone, where she managed a $200 million 
budget and worked to advance job planning and placement initiatives, as 
well as providing financing to businesses. She was also the youngest 
city clerk for Cleveland's City Council and served on a countless 
number of boards benefitting her community. Today, Valarie serves as 
the Chief of Government and International Affairs for the City of 
Cleveland. As the first person to hold this position, she acts as a 
liaison between the Mayor's Office and State and Local Governments, 
Federal Agencies, and international organizations.
  With her in-depth public service experience, I have no doubt that 
APTA will benefit tremendously from Valarie's Chairmanship. Her 
national appointment makes Ohio proud.
  I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing her 
distinguished record of public service.

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