[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 17014]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                         TRIBUTE TO JACK WARNER

 Mr. SHELBY. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. 
Jack Warner, a pillar of the Tuscaloosa business community and a man of 
deep passion both in his business and personal pursuits. The former 
Chairman and CEO of Gulf States Paper Corporation, I would like to 
recognize him for the work that he and his wife, Elizabeth, have 
contributed to Tuscaloosa in the form of time, expertise and money to 
many local causes.
  The pragmatic approach that he has brought to his life combines old-
fashioned common sense with a flexible philosophy. This philosophy has 
evolved over time, through two world wars, numerous labor strikes, and 
tough financial circumstances. Through it all, Jack Warner has remained 
steadfast in his beliefs and a pioneer from which others might draw 
inspiration. He has made tough business decisions throughout the years, 
and through it all kept Gulf States Paper privately owned, when so many 
other companies have gone public. His gritty determination has led to 
financial success, which has helped him to pursue his personal 
interests and also allowed him to give back to the Tuscaloosa 
community.
  Jack Warner truly represents an era when a man presented his best 
effort to any obstacle in his path. As an officer in the Army's last 
horse-mounted unit, his cavalry unit was sent to India to pack supplies 
along the Burma trail during World War II. Once there, his unit was 
issued mules instead of horses, which would be enough to take the wind 
out of any proud soldier's sails. Jack Warner persevered however, and 
his regiment ended up making a significant contribution to the War 
effort when a traditional cavalry unit would have had little to offer. 
This story encapsulates the life of Jack Warner, demonstrating 
persistence through adversity, and a humble focus to get the job done 
right.
  Jack Warner has made a tremendous impact on Tuscaloosa and the 
surrounding area. In fact, he has recently completed the redecoration 
of the University of Alabama President's Mansion at his own expense. 
Perhaps almost as importantly, Jack followed through with the 
renovation to the last small detail, going so far as to choose the 
drapery as well as replacing a smaller chandelier with an immense late 
18th century Waterford crystal chandelier. Again, this typifies the man 
which has been so integral to the Tuscaloosa community, not only 
providing the money for the project, but following through and making 
sure everything turned out right. His commitment to Tuscaloosa and the 
State of Alabama is greatly appreciated.

                          ____________________