[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23071]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM BLOCK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 6, 2006

  Mr. OBERSTAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to William 
(Bill) Block of Morrison County, Minnesota, who recently retired after 
serving 24 years as a Morrison County Commissioner representing 
District 5. Bill has rendered long, distinguished, and dedicated 
service for his community and the State of Minnesota.
  First elected as a Morrison County Commissioner in 1983, Bill's list 
of accomplishments is both lengthy and varied. Under his stewardship, 
Morrison County expanded its airport, built a new Government Center, 
implemented a county-wide 9-1-1 system, promoted economic development, 
developed the Belle Prairie Park as a premier visitors destination, 
resolved a recurring flooding problem from Fletcher Creek, converted an 
abandoned railway into a recreational trail, and improved highway 
safety.
  As County Commissioner, he brought together individuals with diverse 
and sometimes contentious positions through his dedication, hard work, 
and diplomacy. Admired by his fellow Commissioners, department heads, 
and county employees, I know that Bill will be sorely missed.
  I wish Bill and his lovely wife Barb well as they move onto other 
life pursuits. Because of the many contributions he made to his 
community, Bill deserves to hang out his ``Gone Fishing'' sign.
  I am proud and honored to share with my colleagues this well-deserved 
tribute to Bill Block, who has given so much of himself to enrich the 
lives of others and to serve his community.

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