[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO VINCENT R. FARIAS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM SAXTON

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2008

  Mr. SAXTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Vincent 
Farias. On February 21, 2008 Mr. Farias will be celebrated for his 
contributions to Burlington County at the Burlington County Republican 
Committee and Burlington County Republican Women's Annual Lincoln Day 
Dinner.
  Perhaps one of the most gregarious and enthusiastic Edgewater Park 
residents, Vince Farias was always a proponent of action leading to 
results. A veteran schoolteacher, banker, and small business owner, 
Vincent served 6 years on the Edgewater Park Township Committee and as 
mayor in 1987 and 1991.
  After first filling a vacant freeholder seat in 1991, Vince went on 
to serve 5 terms as a member of the Burlington County Board of Chosen 
Freeholders. During that time, Vince was an advocate for the county's 
open space preservation work and redevelopment plans. One of his most 
notable projects included the creation and implementation of the NJ 
Transit Riverline Light Rail system, which made its debut in 2004. 
Since then, it has had a positive ripple effect on surrounding 
businesses and residential communities along the Delaware River.
  Vince was also instrumental in creating the county's Veterans 
Military Service Medal. Through this project, several military 
assistance programs have been developed to help aid our area veterans.
  In addition, Vince worked with the South Jersey Freeholder's 
Association and the New Jersey Association of Counties, where he served 
as president in 2002. Vince has also worked with the American Red Cross 
and the March of Dimes.
  Madam Speaker, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for his 
leadership, commitment, and service to the public.

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