[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 7014]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT OF JAMES ``CHOPPY'' SAUNDERS, PRESIDENT OF 
            THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF MIDDFEST INTERNATIONAL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN A. BOEHNER

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 24, 2008

  Mr. BOEHNER. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the retirement of 
James ``Choppy'' Saunders, a leading citizen of Middletown, Ohio and to 
express my appreciation for his dedication and commitment to public 
service. Since 1986 Choppy has given freely of his time and talents to 
Middfest International and for that I offer him my utmost 
congratulations and thanks.
  Choppy's love for his community goes far beyond his involvement with 
Middfest and his 17 years as its General Chairman. He has served on 
many boards and commissions. He is the past President and First Vice-
President of the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Planning Authority and 
Regional Council of Governments, President of the Middletown Board of 
Health, President of the Middletown Area Chamber of Commerce, Board 
Member of the Middletown Area Neediest Youth and of course was the 
first African American elected to the Middletown City Commission.
  Choppy's record--as a committed community man and as a good neighbor 
helping those in need--will leave an enduring legacy in Middletown. His 
leadership will be missed, but the footprint he has left will inspire 
many to emulate his good works.
  Choppy, I offer my congratulations and gratitude for your long and 
successful career in public service. I wish you well in your 
retirement, and I hope you continue to achieve happiness and success 
wherever your life journey may lead you.