Recognition of George A. Hussey, Jr.

RECOGNITION OF GEORGE A. HUSSEY, JR. -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 11, 2004)

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend an exemplary individual who has made a tremendous impact on his community and continues to work tirelessly towards various worthy causes. George A. Hussey, Jr., a native of Long Branch, New Jersey, began his career at Monmouth Medical Center and was eventually hired by the City of Long Branch. While employed at the Department of Public Works, George worked as the Anti-Litter Officer, and grant coordinator for the Clean Communities Program. His efforts and commitment earned him special recognition by the Department of Environmental Protection for having the best program in the state of New Jersey. Shortly after this distinction, Mr. Hussey's responsibilities were expanded to include Municipal Recycling Coordinator.

In addition to his work towards cleaner communities, Mr. Hussey routinely serves as a volunteer, lending his time putting up holiday lighting and coordinating beach clean-ups. For several years now, Mr. Hussey has been working in the Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement Department for the City of Long Branch, and at the age of 39, he became a volunteer firefighter, receiving the Raul Award for being Rookie of the Year. In 2003, he was the proud recipient of the Firefighter of the Year Award from the VFW Post 2140 in Long Branch.

Joining the Long Branch Elks Lodge, No. 742, at the suggestion of co-worker and friend Jack Filter, who happened to be the Past Exalted Ruler for the chapter, Mr. Hussey carried on a family tradition, by becoming a 3rd generation Elk-following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. As an officer in the Elks, Inner Guard, Mr. Hussey became active in the Handicapped Children's Committee-just as his father had been. In this capacity, he successfully raised money for Camp Moore, a camp for handicapped children.

Over the years, Mr. Hussey has selflessly volunteered his time and talent to the community and the city of Long Branch. I congratulate him on assuming the highest office in the lodge, Exalted Ruler for the fraternal year 2003-2004. I have full confidence that he will excel in this capacity, and contribute significantly to all the wonderful efforts of the Lodge.