[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 16]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 22099]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING DON FREELS FOR HIS THIRTY PLUS YEARS IN REALTOR SERVICE

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                         HON. PATRICK J. TIBERI

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 17, 2009

  Mr. TIBERI. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure I rise to 
recognize the distinguished career of the CEO of the Ohio Association 
of REALTORS, Don Freels.
   Homeownership has always been the cornerstone of the American Dream. 
When moving into a home of our own, we gain immeasurable independence 
and confidence, as faith in the future of our family and our community 
grows. The spread of ownership and opportunity helps give us a vital 
stake in the future of America and the chance to realize the great 
promise of our country. Therefore, those who contribute to the 
furtherance of the American Dream for others deserve to be honored for 
their service. The Ohio Association of REALTORS was created to help 
protect the investment Americans place in their homes, and for 17 years 
Don Freels has led this organization with honor and distinction.
   Starting over 39 years ago, Don began serving as an active REALTOR 
in the Chicago area, working as the executive officer of two local 
boards. By 1985, due to his leadership and the remarkable reputation he 
built with his peers, Don was selected to head the Michigan Association 
of REALTORS. The success he achieved in this post caught the eye of 
REALTORS in the Buckeye State, and in 1992 Don was hired as CEO of the 
Ohio Association of REALTORS. Since then, Don's unparalleled leadership 
and passion for his craft has helped maintain the stature of Ohio's 
largest professional trade organization, improve the realty profession, 
and solidify its irreplaceable role in the furtherance of the American 
Dream.
   Through commendable loyalty to his profession, Don stands as a 
pillar of his community. As a former REALTOR, I am very pleased to 
thank him for all he has done for Ohio.
   I offer my congratulations to Don Freels for a career spent in 
service to REALTORS everywhere. I hope the spirit he daily brings forth 
in his life and work continues to inspire his friends and co-workers 
for years to come.

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