[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN RECOGNITION OF TODD ``PARNEY'' PARNELL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BILL SHUSTER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 5, 2008

  Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
accomplishments and dedication of Todd ``Parney'' Parnell. Mr. Parnell 
will be recognized for his service by the Penn's Woods Council Boy 
Scouts of America as their Distinguished Citizen at the 2008 Blair 
County Friends of Scouting Luncheon on June 11, 2008.
  From the time Mr. Parnell graduated from Messiah College in 1988 with 
a degree in physical education, he has constantly worked to increase 
the value of the community in which he has lived. Mr. Parnell began his 
minor league baseball career in 1990 when he joined the Eastern 
League's Reading Phillies as the club's Director of Sales and 
Marketing. His vivacity for the business and sports world made him a 
considered candidate for Assistant General Manager. His dedication and 
hard work has not gone unnoticed, recently he was elected as the 
League's Representative to the Baseball Chapel. From 1997 to 2001, Mr. 
Parnell served as Vice President and General Manager of the Single- A 
Kannapolis Intimidators in the South Atlantic League. His tenacity to 
lead a team to success resulted in his recognition as the 1999 South 
Atlantic League General Manager of the Year.
  Today, Mr. Parnell has served the Altoona Curve as their General 
Manager for seven seasons. His eternal optimism makes him a joy to work 
with even in the most serious moments of business. Mr. Parnell has been 
a key factor in helping the Curve set multiple single-game and season 
attendance marks at the Blair County Ballpark. His outgoing personality 
has continued to move the team to shatter sponsorship and corporate 
sales records. Under the steadfast leadership of Mr. Parnell, the Curve 
has been honored as Minor League Baseball's top franchise and winner of 
the John H. Johnson President's Trophy. In 2004, Mr. Parnell was 
awarded the Eastern League Executive of the Year Award, as well as the 
Larry MacPhail Trophy for promotional excellence. His demonstrated 
dedication and enthusiasm to the Altoona Curve has allowed the team to 
soar to new heights and has made them one of the most respected minor 
league baseball teams.
  As he reflects upon his work as General Manager and his lifetime of 
achievements, Mr. Parnell can certainly be proud of his life of service 
to his team and his community, in which he has found great success. I 
look forward to celebrating the contributions and accomplishments of 
such a dedicated individual. His involvement has brought a greater 
appreciation to our area and has surely been an asset to the community. 
I would like to wish Mr. Todd ``Parney'' Parnell the best in his future 
endeavors as he continues to serve the Altoona Curve as General Manager 
and a true leader. I thank him for his far-reaching commitment and 
service as he continues to add greatness to his community.

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