Robert Brady

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the future leaders of LaSalle Academy, Class of 2015, on their Leadership visit to the Nation's Capital on May 6th 2014. This trip, through the sites they will see, the leaders they will meet, and about whom they will learn, will expose them to the attributes effective leaders must possess in guiding individuals toward a value-based, common goal. I trust this trip will afford these young men and women not only an opportunity to learn effective leadership skills, but also the worth of selfless leadership to themselves, their school, community, and nation. LaSalle Academy of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has inculcated a robust value set in its curriculum and has readied these young men and women for this leadership role. Knowing they are our leaders of tomorrow, I and the teachers and staff at LaSalle Academy are happy to have provided them the opportunity to see leadership in action in our nation's capitol. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate these students on their interest in our government and in becoming inspirational leaders. Please join me in wishing them every success in their future endeavors.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor The Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 39, proudly celebrating their 125th anniversary in May, 2014. Their motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity can be seen throughout the division's history, from helping Irish immigrants obtain work in the early 1870's to the present day, by awarding scholarships, holding fundraisers for those in need and collecting thousands of dollars and much needed supplies for those in New York and New Jersey who were devastated by super storm Sandy. In 1884 Irish immigrants built and attended St. Leo's Catholic Church, which still stands today. In 1885 an Irishman and Hibernian, Frank Jordan, built the Tacony Music Hall, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. Today ancestors of the Irish immigrant families still reside in the Tacony area of Philadelphia. During the 1950's and 1960's many more divisions of the Ancient Order of Hibernians were started in Philadelphia and surrounding areas and Division 39 lost members. By the late 1960's when there were less than 50 members remaining, the officers and members undertook a revitalization of this once great division. By the early 1980's Division 39 had over 300 members, and by the mid 1990's there were over 900 members, making Division 39 the largest in the country. As of today the membership remains at approximately 750 members. Some of the annual functions at the division are the communion breakfast, Veterans Day mass and social, children's Christmas party, mass before the St. Patrick's Day parade and post parade party, awarding of scholarships based on a written essay, three scholarship awards on Thanksgiving Day to Father Judge High School football players, erection and dismantling of the Christmas creeche in downtown Philadelphia, the annual chili cook off and membership drive and weekly crab night. These events are only some of the ways the Division 39 gives back to the community. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating The Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 39, on its 125th anniversary of serving the Tacony community.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Peter Wirs, a friend and a neighbor, who will soon become the first diabetic and oldest individual to step into an international freestyle wrestling mat at this year's USA Wrestling's National Open, taking place in Las Vegas on April 17. Peter Wirs currently serves as the 59th Republican Ward Leader in Philadelphia. But despite what Peter has accomplished, diabetes continues to be an epidemic. One in 12 Americans has diabetes, and an additional one in 3 Americans is at risk for developing the disease. Every 17 seconds, another individual is diagnosed with diabetes. Shockingly, this disease kills more Americans every year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. The American Diabetes Association's latest research estimates the total costs of diagnosed diabetes have risen to $245 billion in 2012 from $174 billion in 2007, when the cost was last examined, representing a 41 percent over a five-year period. Diabetes costs severely impact American productivity, let alone billions in healthcare costs. Pete Wirs could have given up ten years ago. When I first met Pete Wirs he weighed 250 lbs. Today, he weighs 180 lbs. He exercises at 5:30 in the morning every day, followed by drills and wrestling holds and moves practice every night after work at the Pennsylvania Wrestling Club headquarters, located in my District. Mr. Speaker, we don't know whether Leader Wirs will win or lose his first match. But no matter what the final score ends up being, Pete Wirs will have scored a moral victory by simply stepping onto the mat, by getting his diabetes under control, and by proving to all of us that physical fitness is not a diet or a fad, but a life-long commitment to healthy eating, continuous exercise, and sports activity. Mr. Speaker, Pete Wirs remains an inspiration to all diabetics and indeed to all of us who should be exercising and participating in sports and recreation. I join my colleague, Congressman Jim Jordan, in congratulating Leader Wirs, and all of his fellow team members, coaches and boosters in what is sure to be a sports event for the history books.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bishop Joseph P. McFadden, a distinguished former member of the Philadelphia education and Catholic community. Bishop McFadden was born in Philadelphia on May 22, 1947. Attending Catholic schools for his elementary and secondary education, Bishop McFadden was an involved and active student. He then enrolled in Philadelphia's Saint Joseph University, where he matriculated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Politics. Bishop McFadden's childhood and education prepared him well to be a life-long advocate for education in Philadelphia. After teaching and coaching at West Catholic Boys High School from 1969-1976, Bishop McFadden entered Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. Ordained as a priest on May 16, 1981, Bishop McFadden continued in his passion of higher education. He received a Master of Divinity, graduating Summa Cum Laude, upon completing his studies at Saint Charles Seminary. Bishop McFadden served as an Honorary Prelate to Pope John Paul II for two years. In 1993, Cardinal Bevilacqua appointed Bishop McFadden as the first President of Cardinal O'Hara High School. As President, the Bishop was vital to increasing the school's enrollment to 2000 students and initiating the program ``Laptops for Learning.'' Bishop McFadden began his service as a pastor in Downingtown in 2001, until he was appointed to be an Auxiliary Bishop in Philadelphia in June 2004. He was ordained to the Episcopacy on July 28, 2004 and was named the tenth Bishop of Harrisburg on June 22, 2010. Unfortunately, Bishop McFadden passed away on March 2, 2013. His passing is still mourned by the Catholic community. This week, Bishop McFadden will posthumously be given the Distinguished Catholic School Graduates Award by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for his service to Catholic School education in the state of Pennsylvania. I invite you and all of my colleagues to join me in commemorating Bishop Joseph P. McFadden. May his legacy and commitment be an inspiration to all of us in the years to come.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the upcoming 100th Year Anniversary of the founding of the Delaware River Yachtsmen's League (DRYL). Founded in 1914, the DRYL is committed to promoting true Yachtsmanship on the Delaware River, its tributaries and surrounding territory. The DRYL started with a mere five founding clubs, and now contains 35 clubs along with six boating organizations. Over 5,000 boating members support one another in their commitments of successful club activities, working for cleaner waterways, and staying abreast of developing issues and laws. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Delaware River Yachtsmen's League for this distinguished milestone in its already impressive history. May we all seek to emulate the League's culture of dedication and hard work.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Allan Segal, one of the founding fathers of the gay rights movement and possibly the person most responsible for bringing national attention to that group's quest for acceptance and respectability. By the age of eighteen Mark was an activist and founded Gay Youth, the nation's first organization to deal with the issues of gay teens and endangered LGBT youth. Then, realizing the gay community needed to be brought out into the open, Mark created the Gay Raiders and took his fight national by breaking into television newscasts and nationally broadcast live programs, always espousing gay rights. These break-ins were known as ``zaps'' and succeeded in making people aware of a part of our society that did not have equal rights under the law. The last known ``zap'' was one that took place on the CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite, and strange as it seems, Mark Segal and Walter Cronkite became and remained friends until Mr. Cronkite's passing in July of 2009. Mark founded the Pride of Philadelphia Election in 1989 to build a coalition of gay activists and allies. He raised over $30,000 during the primary, waging a television ad campaign to defeat then City Councilman Francis Rafferty in order to elect allies to Philadelphia City Council, including then candidate for Mayor, Ed Rendell. Mark was also instrumental in obtaining funding from the late Congressman Thomas Foglietta in order to purchase a permanent home for the William Way LGBT Community Center, located in the heart of Philadelphia's ``Gayborhood''. Mark is the founder of the Philadelphia Gay News and has become a respected journalist with his newspaper winning numerous awards. He is a tireless champion for his community making it his duty to make people understand and respond to the issues at hand, never quitting the fight. And now, his latest project of bringing affordable housing to an aging gay population has reached fruition. The John C. Anderson Apartments, named for a Philadelphia City Councilman who died of AIDS in 1983, is now open. It is the first senior citizen housing project built by and for the LGBT community in Pennsylvania and only the third of its type in the United States. This is housing where gay tenants will feel comfortable living in a community that will not discriminate against them. But also, like the senior complexes built by Christian, Jewish and Chinese groups, this housing will be open to any eligible senior in need. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Mark Segal for being at the forefront of a fight still taking place today. He is an outstanding example of unwavering commitment to equal rights, and we should all be thankful for his tireless dedication and determination.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, rise to honor the memory of Nicole Michele Hines, a woman who lived more life in her 38 years than most will live in a lifetime, and is remembered for stating, ``My PASSION is greater than your power!'' Her advocacy for women's rights, fatherhood, community uplift and the foundation of family were just a few of the areas she fought for. Her association with organizations such as Holy Redeemer Health System's Project Rainbow/Drueding Center and the Women's Community Revitalization Project landed her prestigious spots on their boards and various committees. She lived and fought for the educational rights of her own children, Naim and Aminah, and for a village of others. Nicole was a tireless champion for her community, always willing to serve in whatever capacity was needed, devoting endless hours to politics at both the city and state levels. She was elected Committee Woman for the 49th Ward, 5th Division, and worked diligently to help further the community's improvement and redevelopment. She was a strong supporter of the Logan CDC, serving as an active member of their Neighborhood Advisory Committee, and was actively involved in many organizations, among them but not limited to, the Philadelphia Center for Art and Technology, Philadelphia Assisting Communities, the Community Women's Education Project and the Northwest Community Coalition for Youth. Her final project was advocating for the rights of fatherhood and the family as a united front, helping in the creation of the Father's Heart and Legacy Empowerment Center. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in remembering this extraordinary woman who has touched the lives of so many and has left behind a wealth of knowledge and a glowing legacy. She made it her duty to make people understand and respond to the issues at hand and would want all of us to continue her fight.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Tasty Baking Company, better known as TASTYKAKE, as it celebrates its 100th Birthday today. Since TASTYKAKE was formed, it has been an integral ingredient to the great city of Philadelphia, as well as surrounding areas along the East Coast. TASTYKAKE was founded in 1914 by baker Philip J. Baur and egg salesman Herbert T. Morris. The brand name was originally conceptualized by Morris' wife commenting on how she found the duo's baked goods to be ``tasty.'' Starting in a small bakery in Philadelphia, and only using the finest and freshest of ingredients, the company quickly became a phenomenon. TASTYKAKE, a wholly owned subsidiary of Flowers Foods, Inc., is a success story not only for Philadelphia, but for our nation as a whole. The company employs thousands, has multiple production locations in Philadelphia and Chester County, and contributes everyday to the success of America. From honey buns to chocolate bells, cupcakes to donuts, thousands of citizens are enriched by these tasty baked goods. TASTYKAKE is memorializing this special event by serving their goods to those who serve the citizens of Philadelphia, including local charities, police and fire departments, and customers. This act conceptualizes the American dream: that through hard work and dedication, everybody has a chance to make their dream succeed. I invite you and all of my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Tasty Baking Company and offering our thanks to the company that has made many of our lives much sweeter.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the Port Richmond On Patrol, better known as ``PROP,'' as it celebrates 25 years as a town watch and civic organization in the City of Philadelphia. In 1988, in the wake of the Sean Daily murder that rocked the close knit blue collar neighborhood of Port Richmond when a 17 year old local teenager was beaten and killed by another group of teens, a handful of neighbors sprung into action to keep their neighborhood safe. Three women were instrumental in the birth of PROP: Phyllis Hackimer, Helene LaBenz, and Jackie Saier. These women were involved from the very beginning, working to keep their neighborhood and their kids safe and secure the streets of Port Richmond. PROP Townwatch started out at Phyllis' kitchen table with coffee and pound cake. The first meeting drew hundreds of people wanting to be the eyes and ears of Port Richmond in the 24th Police District. Through the years, PROP patrolled the streets of Port Richmond every Friday and Saturday night, both in personal vehicles and even on foot patrol, and then initiated the ``Eyes and Ears on Your Block'' program that invited neighbors to look around and hear what's happening on their block and street and encouraged them to report suspicious behavior. Hackimer and LaBenz have shared a stoop on Port Richmond's 3600 Gaul Street for decades and raised their kids alongside one another as next door neighbors and friends. Saier, who lives at Almond and Westmoreland Streets, is a walking encyclopedia of Port Richmond history and family ancestry and can usually be found on her porch watching over A&W playground. PROP has always put the betterment, safety, and security of Port Richmond as their goal and mission statement and have consistently worked hand and hand with the Captain and Police Officers of the 24th Police District. PROP was also one of the first town watches in the City of Philadelphia to embrace and participate in the National Night Out Program, which they still help organize every August in a citywide event. Furthermore, PROP is a proud ally of Operation Town Watch, an organization dedicated to the development and promotion of organized law enforcement-affiliated crime and drug prevention programs. Members include: Neighborhood, Crime, Community, Town and Block Watch Groups; law enforcement agencies; state and regional crime prevention associations; and a variety of businesses, civic groups and concerned individuals working to make their communities safer places in which to live and work.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Ms. Joan Williams. A lifelong community leader, Ms. Williams is being honored with the Martin Luther King Community Service Award on January 23rd for her unending service to our city and its people. Since her graduation from Lincoln University in 1971, Ms. Williams has been a force for change. Professionally, Ms. Williams worked in the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights from 1972 to 2006, eventually becoming a Senior Equal Opportunity Specialist, investigating discrimination complaints regarding elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education programs. She now serves as the First Vice President & Director of Programs & Projects for the West Philadelphia Coalition of Neighborhoods and Businesses. In this role, Ms. Williams acts as a liaison between businesses and corporations and community members seeking employment, working to help all of her neighbors achieve better circumstances. Ms. Williams was also instrumental in establishing the Community Advisory Committee, which serves as an oversight committee for the Philadelphia Juvenile Justice Service Center, making the Center safe and of assistance to the community. For her personal and professional work, Ms. Williams has received many awards, including, but not limited to, the 190th Legislative District Image Award from State Representative Vanessa Lowery Brown and the Community Service Award from the Henry Hill Post 385 American Legion. On reflecting on Ms. Williams's long history of working for social justice, I cannot think of someone more deserving of this year's Martin Luther King Community Service Award. It is a privilege to recognize a person whose leadership and commitment to our city has enriched the lives of countless individuals. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Ms. Williams for her lifetime of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Upper Darby High School, the winner of Varsity Brands' National School Spirit Day. National School Spirit Day is an annual celebration throughout the month of October to recognize the impact that cheerleaders and dancers have in their local communities--as mentors, community service leaders, spirit raisers, and positive examples to all. In 2009, Varsity Brands began National School Spirit Day as a way to spotlight the efforts of cheerleaders and dancers throughout the country who make a difference in their schools and communities. Over the past five years, cheerleaders and dancers have pledged more than 500,000 community service hours as part of National School Spirit Day. This year, the Upper Darby High School Royals were selected as the national team winner of the 2013 National School Spirit Day. The Upper Darby Cheerleaders collected hats, scarves, gloves, blankets, gift cards, and other warm clothing items for women and children of domestic violence and abuse throughout the month of October. By the end of the month, the cheer squad was able to turn over thousands of items in support of victims of domestic abuse. In conjunction with National School Spirit Day on October 11, 2013, Varsity Brands also launched Cheer for a Healthier America. This program aims to enlist high school student cheerleaders, dancers, and athletes as student ambassadors of their communities by getting local elementary school kids more involved in physical activities, and teach them about making healthy lifestyle choices. Just this summer, at over 1,000 Varsity camps across America, over 400,000 enrolled campers learned about the program and are preparing to initiate it this Fall, while students from over 800 schools have signed up to participate. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing Upper Darby High School and commending the work done by youth across the country.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Ms. Sara Lomax-Reese. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, Ms. Lomax-Reese is the President and General Manager of WURD Radio LLC, Pennsylvania's only African-American owned talk radio station. Ms. Lomax-Reese is an accomplished journalist who has been widely published in The Miami Herald, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Essence Magazine, American Visions Magazine, and Modern Maturity. Additionally, she co-founded HealthQuest: Total Wellness for Body, Mind, and Spirit, the first nationally circulated African-American consumer health magazine in the country. Due to her outstanding leadership abilities, the magazine quickly grew from a small 25,000 quarterly to a bi-monthly publication with a distribution of 500,000. She has received many awards for her dedication to her community, including the Woman of Substance Award, the Tree of Life award, the Beacon of Light award, the Woman of Distinction award, and most recently the PECO Power to the Community Award. Ms. Lomax-Reese stands committed to continuing her work of empowering the community and building a powerful voice for the African-American community at WURD radio. It is a privilege to recognize a person whose leadership and commitment to our city has enriched the lives of countless individuals. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Ms. Lomax-Reese for her lifetime of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Ms. Virginia Davenport. At a young age Ms. Davenport, along with her five siblings, was put up for adoption due to unfortunate circumstances following the family's move to Philadelphia. In and out of foster homes during these early years, Ms. Davenport faced the myriad of challenges children can experience within the foster care system. Despite these difficult times, Ms. Davenport pressed on with faith in a God above and the determination to improve her situation. Ms. Davenport went on to attend the Power Sewing School, Simon Gratz High School, Government Nurses Aid Training School, and various other educational institutions. She recently graduated from the first level of the Deliverance Bible Institute (DEBI) with outstanding marks and will continue with the next level of DEBI this upcoming semester. Throughout all of this, she has made every effort to reach out and support young people at every opportunity she is afforded. She is active in Intercessory Prayer, the Home Care Department, and Helping Hand Ministries. Ms. Davenport intends to continue to dedicate her time to bettering herself and her community and hopes to be an inspiration to those around her. It is a privilege to recognize a person whose leadership and commitment to community has enriched the lives of countless individuals. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Ms. Davenport for her lifetime of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the upcoming 90th birthday of Fraulein Lamar. Born on December 30th, 1923, Ms. Lamar has lived a life of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District. Unlike many women of her generation, Ms. Lamar carved out a career for herself at two of our city's landmark institutions. Working for U.S. Customs and Border Protection for twelve years, Ms. Lamar safeguarded our borders and made citizenship to the United States a reality for countless individuals around the globe. She went on to work for the Philadelphia Quartermaster Depot for thirteen years. What's more, Ms. Lamar balanced her busy career with a robust family life and is devoted mother and grandmother. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Ms. Lamar on this most important of birthdays. May we all learn from her legacy of hard work, commitment, and passion.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of Dr. Walter Lomax. The phrase, ``he lived a full life,'' is often over used these days. But, it is certainly appropriate to say just that about Dr. Lomax. He was a medical doctor, an astute businessman and a philanthropist. In short, he saved lives in many ways. Dr. Lomax' sterling medical career alone would have been enough of a legacy for most people. But he also blazed new trails in medicine, extending his healing to the most disadvantaged--the poor and the imprisoned. In business he was a titan, creating a diversified network of enterprises that are forward looking and soundly managed. He was a creator of jobs and a boon to the local economy. And, he is remembered as one of our most generous philanthropists. He helped individuals, with power and without power, and causes too numerous to list, although that list certainly includes the Kimmel Center, Philadelphia's premier fine arts performance hall. His generosity also broadened our understanding of our national history, as was the case in his support for the study of the slaughter of African Americans in the Tulsa Race Riot. All told, his support of community, cultural and educational causes made this nation and the world a better place.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the scholarship and dedication of historian Charles L. Blockson, upon the occasion of the publication of his latest book--The President's House Revisited Behind The Scenes: The Samuel Fraunces Story. For most of his life Mr. Blockson has collected and preserved African and African American historical tomes, art and artifacts. In 2001 I was privileged to have sponsored an appropriation to fund the digitalization of the Collection. Housed at Temple University, the Collection is one of the nation's leading research facilities for the study of the history and culture of Africans of the Diaspora with special emphasis on the lives and experiences of African Americans in Philadelphia and the surrounding Delaware Valley. I am proud to know this much esteemed and dedicated man who has provided us with a window into the lives of the African and African Americans who too often have been written out of history. I salute Charles L. Blockson, a distinguished scholar.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the upcoming wedding of Ashley Shillingsburg and Michael Alderfer. Having worked in my D.C. office for the last five years, Ashley is someone I have come to greatly respect and rely on. She is tirelessly committed to her job and commands a wide range of policy expertise. Ashley is an invaluable asset and a cornerstone of my D.C. operation. This is why I am happy to stand here today in recognition of her upcoming wedding to Michael Alderfer on October 5, 2013 at Willow Creek Winery in our neighboring West Cape May, NJ. Michael Alderfer, while not a Philadelphian, is an accomplished young man with a bright future and, as of equal importance, an avid Eagles fan. Being married to an incredibly bright woman, one who challenges me every day in the best of ways for over 16 years, I am confident that Michael and Ashley will treat each other with the love, dignity, and respect that guarantee a long-lasting marriage. It is a privilege to recognize a person who has become such an integral part of my office. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Ashley and Michael on their upcoming nuptials and wishing them a bright and happy future together.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Mr. Herman J. ``Pete'' Matthews, Jr. Mr. Matthews will be receiving the Labor Man of the Year Award at this year's Friend of Labor Committee of Laborers' Local 332 Annual Black Tie Charity Dinner. Mr. Matthews has served as President of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) for District Council 33 since 1996 and has brought true union democracy to its membership. Before this position, Mr. Matthews served as the Business Agent of Local 394 for thirteen years. Building upon his education from Temple University, Mr. Matthews completed the Harvard University Trade Union Leaders Institute and regularly attends continuing education courses on labor and health care at Harvard University. Mr. Matthews is an active member of many boards, including the Executive Board of the Philadelphia AFL-CIO and the AFSCME International Judicial Panel. He is committed to his position as President of District Council 33 and is a force for stability and positive change in all communities of the City of Philadelphia. It is a privilege to recognize a person whose leadership and commitment to community has enriched the lives of countless individuals. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Mr. Matthews for his lifetime of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Mr. W. Cody Anderson. Mr. Anderson will be receiving the Outstanding Community Leader Award at this year's Friend of Labor Committee of Laborers' Local 332 Annual Black Tie Charity Dinner. Mr. Anderson has committed himself to the field of broadcast radio for more than 35 years, beginning in the Sales Department of WDAS Radio and working his way to become the President and General Manager of the station. He is widely considered a leading communicator to African- American and urban-based communities and has long-standing relationships with leaders and organizations throughout the region. His expertise in community and grassroots based marketing has allowed him to build one of Philadelphia's most influential talk radio stations, 900AM WURD. He is consistently listed as one of Philadelphia's Top Ten Influential African-Americans and remains concerned with and accessible to community members and the issues they face. Throughout his very busy and successful career he has served as a member and advisor for several community organizations such as Action AIDS and the African-American Interdenominational Ministries, Inc., and is an Ambassador in the Team Pennsylvania Outreach Program. It is a privilege to recognize a person whose leadership and commitment to community has enriched the lives of countless individuals. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Mr. Anderson for his lifetime of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Bertha N. Godfrey. Mrs. Godfrey retired from her position as senior vice president of the Philadelphia Tribune on July 31st after working for the paper for 67 years. With 129 years of service, the Philadelphia Tribune is the Nation's oldest continuously published African American newspaper and has employed Mrs. Godfrey for over half of its existence. Throughout her nearly seven decades of employment with the newspaper, Mrs. Godfrey rarely missed a day of work, totaling up to approximately 17,500 plus days. Mrs. Godfrey has been described as an anchor and a historian for the newspaper, serving four different presidents of the paper from 1946 until 1980. At 92 years of age she continues to be a vibrant and dedicated character in the lives of those around her and will be sorely missed at the Philadelphia Tribune. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Mrs. Godfrey for her lifetime of service and dedication to Pennsylvania's First Congressional District and the Philadelphia Tribune. May we all learn from her legacy of hard work, commitment, and passion.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Barbara Chase Riboud who is truly a renaissance women. Her talent as a novelist, poet, scholar and artist of the highest order, is recognized around the world. We are happy to claim her as a Philadelphian and are excited about the exhibition of the first comprehensive retrospective of her iconic Malcolm X Steles at the Philadelphia Art Museum. In short, we are deeply honored by her work, accomplishments and presence once again in Philadelphia. Educated at the Philadelphia High School for Girls', Temple University's Tyler School of Art and the Yale University of Art, she is an internationally acclaimed visual artist whose work has been exhibited throughout Europe and America. Her public sculpture, Africa Rising, at the African Burial Ground National Monument in Lower Manhattan expressed as poetry, sculpture and historical novel is in tribute to the 17th and 18th century burial ground that yielded the remains of more than 400 mostly enslaved Africans in America. Among her prestigious awards are the Carl Sandburg Prize for Best American Poet and being knighted in the Order of Arts and Letters by the French government. Her talent is only eclipsed by her career long commitment to make known the story of those who came to America, ``. . . a stunned string of Black pearls like a hundred year centipede: one thousand. One thousand thousand. one million, three, six, nine, thirty million.''

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the entire U.S. House of Representatives, today I pay tribute to Alessandro ``Alex'' Cusati, the Chief Engineer at the U.S. House of Representatives. Alex was born in Eboli, Italy and first came to the United States as a young man in the Italian Air Force. After his exchange program, he worked for a CBS affiliate in Alabama where he met his wife Tallulah. Alex and Tallulah have two children, Jerry and Genoveffa, and a grandson, Stephen Benny. Alex has been a dedicated House employee for 36 years and has had an impact not only on the employees working on the Hill, but also on the public at large. Starting as an Engineer in the House Recording Studio, he rose to the position of Chief Engineer in 1995. He was instrumental in running the House's first TV broadcasts in 1979 and bore the daunting task of maintaining and upgrading the data, audio, and video capabilities of all offices within the U.S. House of Representatives. Alex has been responsible for coordinating and overseeing the transition from analog to digital data usage and the implementation of High Definition TV. Alex was also responsible for the Recording Studio Media Center, which allows remote broadcasts from committee hearings. Additionally, he oversaw the design and opening of the House Floor Broadcasting Control Room in the Capitol Visitor Center. His personnel file, teeming with letters of gratitude for his efforts from Committee Chairmen, House Officers, and staff from foreign dignitaries, is a prime indication of his commitment to the House and his tireless worth ethic. He is commended by his colleagues for his institutional knowledge, positive attitude, and uncanny ability to resolve any unpredictable issue. Alex Cusati will be missed throughout this institution. He is a shining example of the committed men and women who quietly and without fanfare, serve the American people in unique and invaluable ways. Their commitment and unwavering work ethic make it possible for us to conduct the vital work of this nation. Please join me in commending his outstanding service and wishing him continued success as he takes on new challenges in his retired life.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today of the Tyree A.M.E. Church to celebrate its Centennial Anniversary. Over the past 100 years, the Tyree A.M.E. Church has endured as the spiritual home for countless numbers of Philadelphia's citizens. This past century, eighteen pastors have led the church successfully, relying on the steadfast faith and fellowship of its members to improve the church and surrounding community. The church's resolute determination to continue their noble work has set a great example for congregations across the country. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring the Centennial Anniversary of the founding of the Tyree A.M.E Church. May it continue to grow and prosper for another 100 years and beyond.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor my friend and Congressman, Bill Gray. Reverend Gray was an historic figure in Philadelphia and in this country. His contributions to this Nation are well known to all of us. So, I'd like to take a moment and just focus on his impact in my own life. Bill represented my community in the House for many years. He was one of my most important mentors and supporters as I rose through the ranks in Philadelphia politics. I was a ward leader in his district and was proud to return his support every two years. I leaned on Bill for his wise counsel on how to serve my constituents. He helped me to be a better ward leader, a better party chair, and a better congressman. But the best counsel I got from Bill was not professional advice. His best advice was about how to be a better father and a better husband while doing this job. He demonstrated that philosophy by his close business relationship with his son, who was by his side at almost every meeting. During our frequent dinners, Bill would make sure I understood that I had to get back to Philadelphia as much as I can. He told me to put my family and my neighborhood first and to make sure that I didn't ever forget why I came to Washington in the first place. Bill never lost his love for Philadelphia. He and I were working together until the last weeks of his life. He was doing all he could to help our Free Libraries, to build jobs at Comcast and to protect the people of his beloved North Philadelphia. Mr. Speaker, Philadelphia, this country and this House will be much poorer for Bill Gray's passing. I urge my colleagues to join the entire Pennsylvania delegation in honoring him today.

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania

Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the entire House of Representatives, today I pay tribute to James Fleet, the Democratic Staff Director of the Committee on House Administration. Jamie, as he is known by friends and colleagues, has served in this role since 2009, and his impact has been felt by every Member, staffer, and visitor to the House. Jamie has been responsible for coordinating and overseeing the back- office operations of the House, including human resources, finance, technology, security and legislative institutions such as the Library of Congress, Government Printing Office, Architect of the Capitol and Officers of the House, as well as the Smithsonian Institution. Jamie has played a critical role in the Committee's oversight of federal elections, including such pertinent issues as campaign finance, voter registration, military and overseas voting, voter identification, and preventing voter suppression. His leadership was instrumental in the House's passage of the DISCLOSE Act, requiring full disclosure of political contributions. Jamie's life in politics began at the age of 18, when he waged a successful write-in campaign to serve on the Gettysburg Borough Council. He went on to work for Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell. He formed his own successful campaign consulting firm, providing guidance for both state and national campaigns. He also served as a Senior Advisor to City of Philadelphia Controller Jonathan Saidel. While Jamie should be proud of all of his accomplishments, they pale in comparison to the pride for his young daughter Rory. Jamie will be missed throughout the institution. It has been a pleasure to work with him for the last seven years. Please join me in commending his outstanding service and wishing him continued success as he takes on new challenges in the Senate.