[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1210]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING ED STERN'S COMMITMENT AND SERVICE TO KITSAP COUNTY REGION 
                          OF WASHINGTON STATE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DEREK KILMER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 2, 2013

  Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ed Stern, Kitsap 
Economic Development Alliance's 2013 Economic Development Champion of 
the Year. Mr. Stern's vision and tireless service have created 
substantive opportunities for local, regional and statewide 
development.
   Mr. Stern has spent his entire adult life working for the benefit of 
his community. For over 25 years, he has spearheaded economic 
development in the region. Mr. Stern currently serves on Poulsbo's City 
Council, sits on the boards of the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance 
and the Association of Washington Cities, and serves the Puget Sound 
Regional Council as chair of the Central Puget Sound Economic 
Development District.
   Mr. Speaker, 2012 was a busy year for Mr. Stern. He led a large, 
active delegation of Kitsap leaders in crafting the Regional Economic 
Strategy, a comprehensive blueprint for economic reform and development 
aimed at securing long term, sustainable economic health in the region. 
He championed state legislation that would revitalize local retail 
cores by helping cities renovate abandoned buildings. He also worked to 
provide citizens of Poulsbo with free, high-speed internet, courtesy of 
a large antenna on Fourth Avenue. It is precisely because of these 
accomplishments that Ed Stern has received this award from the Kitsap 
Economic Development Alliance. He has driven real change for his 
community members, for their regional neighbors, and for the citizens 
of Washington State.
   As I close, I can say with confidence that Ed Stern, with his 
limitless energy, has made significant contributions to our region and 
its citizens. I am pleased to recognize his service today in the United 
States Congress.

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