Honoring Eugene Dibble's 75th Birthday

HONORING EUGENE DIBBLE'S 75TH BIRTHDAY -- (Extensions of Remarks - July 16, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. DANNY K. DAVIS
OF ILLINOIS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2004

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Eugene Dibble as he prepares to celebrate his 75th birthday on July 22, 2004. Mr. Dibble also known as "Big Gene" has been a leader and a pioneer in many areas since moving to the City of Chicago. He was one of the first African American stockbrokers in Chicago. In addition, Mr. Dibble demonstrated his business and family acumen by owning five businesses at one time and having five children who worked in those businesses.

In addition, to being a businessman Mr. Dibble was elected and served as a Trustee for the Chicago Sanitary District. Among Mr. Dibble's many talents has been his keen focus and vision on homeland security. Seven years ago, Mr. Dibble came to my office with a proposal for an Emergency Response Center that would be available in the event of a terrorist attack in downtown Chicago. Perhaps Mr. Dibble's volunteerism for the Red Cross, Salvation Army and emergency response teams in Chicago and Markham, Illinois prepared him for his leading role in being prepared for disasters.

Among Mr. Dibble's greatest accomplishments is that of a family man. Mr. Dibble has been married to his wife Jeanette for 48 years. Also, they are the proud grandparents of six grandkids and counting.

I ask that my colleagues join with me in commending and congratulating Gene and his family as they celebrate 75
years of his life. Gene may God keep you and bless you with many happy healthy years to come. Thank you.