[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 8539-8540]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO BOB LARSON OF WMBD-TV IN PEORIA, ILLINOIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RAY LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 17, 2006

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Bob Larson of 
WMBD-TV in Peoria, Illinois.
  Next Tuesday, May 23, Bob will celebrate 35 years at this television 
station. Over that time, Bob has become an icon in Central Illinois. 
Every evening many citizens of my district tune in to the newscasts of 
Channel 31 to get the day's news from the familiar, friendly face of 
Bob Larson.
  Bob started his broadcasting career at the age of 16 in his hometown 
of Morris, Illinois, and has served over the years on both radio and 
television as a reporter, weatherman, and anchor. He delivers the news 
in a straightforward, Midwestern style, sprinkled with humor and 
modesty. Through years of advancing technology and ever-changing news 
partners, Bob has remained a part of everyday life for Peorians and a 
bedrock part of WMBD. The Associated Press has honored Bob for Best 
Downstate Illinois Radio Newscast and Best Downstate Illinois TV 
Newscast. ``I take the responsibility of giving Central Illinois the 
most comprehensive newscast we can very seriously,'' Bob has said.
  Not only is a Bob an accomplished newsman, he has spent his career 
interacting with the public and being a tireless volunteer for many 
community activities. Bob is often seen riding in his convertible at 
the many parades throughout our area. He has hosted the Muscular 
Dystrophy Association telethon for more than 25 years. He has also 
served as host for the Easter Seals Telethon and Peoria's annual Santa 
Claus parade. Bob takes community service seriously, and he set a 
wonderful example for our community.
  Today I congratulate Bob for his 35 years of service to WMBD. I count 
him as a friend and I look forward to watching his newscasts and 
working with him in the community for many years to come.

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