Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor one of the pioneers of rock and roll, my dear friend Jerry Blavat. Born and raised in my district, Jerry was attracted to the music business because of his love for the music, not for fame or wealth. Jerry is truly one of a kind. He is as much a part of Philadelphia as cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and the Liberty Bell. A great artist in his own right, Jerry was a dancer on the original Bandstand television program, hosted by Bob Horn. He became a favorite with the viewers and rose to the head of the coveted ``Committee'', the group of teens responsible for aiding Horn in the direction of the show.

When he was just 16 years old, Jerry leapt into the music business by managing a national tour for Danny and the Juniors, pushing them into stardom. He got into radio in 1960 and soon was given the title ``The Geator With the Heator.'' He soon coupled his growing popularity on the air (which by 1963 resulted in regional syndication of his program on small stations throughout the Delaware Valley from Atlantic City to Allentown) with appearances off the air at dances, clubs and events. It was not unusual for Blavat to see 5,000 kids a week in person in the mid '60s, nor too much of a stretch to say he'd remember 3,000 of their names the following week. His appearances became so frequent that for a time he needed to use a helicopter just to make it on time from one gig to the next. Today the helicopter is gone, but the frantic schedule is still in place. Throughout the year, he can be found somewhere on virtually any night, and in the summer months he's in weekend residence at Memories At Margate, the New Jersey Shore's hottest night spot which he's owned and operated since 1972.

Jerry Blavat is a true innovator. For instance, he introduced several national dance crazes, such as ``The Mashed Potato,'' ``The Stomp,'' ``The Stroll'' and ``The Jerry Shake.''

Mr. Speaker, Jerry Blavat is well known for his artistry, his business talents and his showmanship. But, not enough people know of Jerry's human side. Jerry's work on behalf of the less fortunate. He is extremely generous with his time and his resources, and has earned our City's love and respect because of that fact.

Jerry Blavat keeps us young, keeps us together and most of all, he keeps us dancing. And so, I know that all my colleagues will join me in honoring the Boss with the Hot Sauce, Jerry Blavat.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor my State Representative, Louise Williams Bishop upon her receipt of the Outstanding Community Leader award from the Friends of Labor Committee of Laborers' Local 332. This amazing woman has simultaneously distinguished herself in three separate careers: as a broadcaster, a Baptist minister, and a State Representative. It defies the

imagination even further to realize that she achieved all of this while raising four children.

Within a few years of graduating from high school, Louise Bishop was named the 'Youngest Voice in Radio,' earned a degree from the American Foundation of Dramatic Arts, and later was awarded both an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Monrovia College and an Honorary Doctorate of Law from Eastern University. From the success of her own career, Louise has nurtured the careers of world-famous recording artists, including stars such as Aretha Franklin.

Called to the ministry early in life, Louise was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1978. A similar inspiration to benefit the community at large later led her to run for public office, and she was elected to the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives in 1988. The voting public already knew her for her good works as a broadcaster and a minister, and has not been disappointed by her record in office. In addition to her other roles, she is now a highly sought after public speaker, as admiration for her strength, character, and accomplishments has spread far and wide.

Today, Mr. Speaker, I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to Louise Bishop upon her receipt of this award that she so richly deserves. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to recognize her for her many accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor James Harper upon his receipt of the Outstanding Labor Leader award from the Friends of Labor Committee of Laborers' Local 332. Jim Harper has filled the position of Business Manager of Laborers' Local No. 413 since 1977, where he has earned great respect within the Local and in the community at large.

Jim first joined Local 413 in June of 1960, after graduating from Upper Darby High School. Following graduation, Jim put himself through school at West Virginia State College, by using the union dollars he earned from summer employment. A hardworking student, Jim was also very active in the community, where he taught neighborhood children reading and writing skills and developed a college open-house program for students, parents, and school administrators. He also led civil rights demonstrations and participated in the ROTC program.

After college, Jim continued to add to his already impressive record. He attended Penn State University Graduate School, where he balanced his publications on Black History with crucial practical contributions to the community, such as mentoring youth and working to reduce street gang tensions. Jim later served in Vietnam, attaining the rank of captain and receiving several Medals of Honor before returning to teach at Penn State. Throughout his career, Jim has constantly demonstrated his dedication to the union's commitments to unity, education, safety, and community.

Today, Mr. Speaker, I wish to express my gratitude for Jim Harper's years of service to the community, and I extend my warmest congratulations to him upon his receipt of this award. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him on all of his accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Canon H. Gregory Smith as he commemorates the 25th anniversary of his ordination. Reverend Smith is highly respected and beloved by the worshipping community of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Germantown, Pennsylvania, and has earned this respect in the many roles he has taken on throughout his life.

A graduate of Bradley University, Reverend Smith majored in Education and Music, and also trained professionally as a tenor. After graduation, he went on to work for the Red Cross, but he never forgot his childhood dream of working in the White House. His father had told him that the only black people in the White House were servants, but the young Reverend Smith vowed that he would someday work at the White House, and not as a servant. True to his word, Reverend Smith soon moved on from his position at the Red Cross to become a writer at the White House for First Lady Betty Ford.

After three years at the White House, Reverend Smith left to follow a call to attend seminary at Nashota House, and was ordained in June of 1980. Since then, he has served as Pastor in Chicago, Atlanta, and Denver. Today, Mr. Speaker, I wish to express my deep gratitude for Reverend Smith's years of service to the community, and I extend my warmest congratulations to him on this 25th anniversary of his ordination. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him on all of his accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor BEBASHI, as it commemorates its 20th Anniversary as the first minority- based AIDS Service Organization in the United States. It was created in 1985 in reaction to the growing rates of HIV/AIDS in the African- American community of Philadelphia. Initially established as a volunteer program focused on street outreach, BEBASHI has developed into a full-service agency offering counseling, testing, case management, support groups, a food bank, and housing counseling.

BEBASHI has improved the lives of people in our region and beyond through its research, advocacy and community service programs. I applaud this remarkable organization as it leads the way to better lives in the 21st century.

I also extend my best wishes and deep appreciation to the two exemplary individuals who will receive BEBASHI's John Allen Blue Award at the BEBASHI Gala on November 22, 2004. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and State Senator Vincent Hughes will be recognized for their long-term outstanding leadership and support to the HIV/AIDS community. They and BEBASHI are to be congratulated for their achievements and for leading the Nation by example to work towards further improvement in HIV/AIDS care and education.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, which will dedicate the new South Philadelphia musicians mural at 9th and Wharton Streets in my district on Saturday, October 8. As everyone knows, Philadelphia has long been one of the capitols of popular culture. This mural will honor seven of the icons of that culture, Jerry Blavat, Al Martino, Frankie Avalon, Fabian, Chubby Checker, Bobby Rydell and Eddie Fisher.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud that this mural will include one of the pioneers of rock and roll, my dear friend Jerry Blavat. Jerry was attracted to the music business because of his love for the music, not for fame or wealth. He was a dancer on the original Bandstand television program, hosted by Bob Horn. He became a favorite with the viewers and rose to the head of the coveted ``Committee,'' the group of teens responsible for aiding Horn in the direction of the show. Jerry got into radio in 1962 and soon was given the title ``The Geator With The Heator.'' He soon coupled his growing popularity on the air, which by 1963 resulted in regional syndication of his program on small stations throughout the Delaware Valley from Atlantic City to Allentown, with appearances off the air at dances, clubs and events. It was not unusual for Blavat to see 5,000 kids a week in person in the mid sixties, nor too much of a stretch to say he would remember 3,000 of their names the following week. His appearances became so frequent that for a time he needed to use a helicopter just to make it on time from one gig to the next. Today the helicopter is gone, but the frantic schedule is still in place. Throughout the year, he can be found somewhere on virtually any night, and in the summer months he is in weekend residence at Memories At Margate, the New Jersey Shore's hottest night spot which he has owned and operated since 1972.

Al Martino will celebrate his 68th birthday on October 7. The son of Italian immigrants, Martino worked as a bricklayer in his father's construction business before being encouraged to become a singer by his friend Mario Lanza. After singing in local clubs, and winning Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts, he recorded ``Here In My Heart'' for the small BBS record label. It shot to No. 1 in the U.S. chart, and sold over a million copies. This disc was also the first ever record to top the New Musical Express UK listings, inaugurated in 1952. He continued his illustrious career on both stage and screen.

Frankie Avalon was the first and most successful of the teen idols from Philadelphia. He was encouraged to perform from the time he was a child, beginning from when he was tutored on the trumpet by his father. By the time he was 12, he had joined Rocco and the Saints, a dance band that featured another boy from the CR Club, drummer Bobby Rydell. The combo played parish bazaars, shows at the Sons of Italy Hall, weekend sock hops in school gyms, and weekend dances at teen clubs. ``Venus'' was Avalon's biggest hit selling more than a million copies in the spring of 1959. Three more million sellers in a row, ``Bobby Sox To Stockings,'' ``Just Ask Your Heart,'' and ``Why'' followed.

In 1960, he co-starred with Alan Ladd in ``Guns of the Timberland'' and appeared in John Wayne's ``Alamo.'' Appearing in a number of other films Avalon did not have a starring role until 1963's ``Drums of Africa.'' In the early sixties there was a nationwide surfing craze and Hollywood did a number of movies on the subject. Avalon, along with Annette Funicello, were leading stars in these movies. Starting in 1963 he appeared in ``Beach Party,'' ``Muscle Beach,'' ``Beach Blanket Bingo,'' etc.

Mr. Speaker, Avalon's friend, Fabian was an overnight singing sensation, a film star with over 30 films to his credit and the producer of his own concert series. Fabian Forte was actually discovered at the age of 14 sitting on his front steps in Philadelphia. At 15, he won the Silver Award as ``The Most Promising Male Vocalist of 1958.'' By the time he was 18, he had recorded dozens of hit singles, eight albums and earned gold records for ``Turn Me Loose'' and ``Tiger'' and a gold album for ``The Fabulous Fabian.'' In 1959, Fabian made his screen debut in ``Hound Dog Man'' opposite Carol Lynley. His role as a homicidal maniac in a TV production entitled ``A Lion Walks Among Us'' directed by Robert Altman solidly established his credentials as a versatile and powerful actor. His impressive acting credits include featured roles with John Wayne, James Stewart, Jack Palance, Tuesday Weld, George Segal and Karen Black.

Chubby Checker was born in South Carolina, but grew up in South Philadelphia. By the time he entered high school, he had learned to play the piano at Settlement Music School. In June of 1959, Chubby recorded ``The Twist.'' Fourteen months later, in the summer of 1960, ``The Twist'' was not only the No. 1 song but it introduced the concept of ``dancing apart to the beat.'' Mr. Speaker, Chubby Checker accomplished many ``firsts'' in the record industry. He is the only artist to have 5 albums in the top 12 all at once; the only artist to have a song to be No. 1 twice--``The Twist'' and the only artist to have nine double-sided hits.

Bobby Rydell, unlike many of the other Teen Idols, was a genuine musician. At the age of 4 or 5, Bobby used to sit in front of the TV set trying to impersonate performers like Louis Prima, Milton Berle, and Johnny Ray. His father recognized Bobby's talent and encouraged him to pursue a show business career. At 5 he began taking lessons on the drums. Three years later he was an accomplished cabaret performer, playing drums and doing imitations. At 9, he was a regular on Paul Whiteman's television show that was broadcast from Philadelphia and performed on it for 3 years. By the time he was a teen, he was playing drums in a dance band Rocco and the Saints. Rydell's million seller, ``Wild One'' was released in early in 1960. ``Swingin' School'' b/w ``Ding-A-Ling'' was a springtime hit and third million seller. That summer ``Volare'' was released. The song had been pulled from a previous unsuccessful session of songs in a big band style to introduce Rydell to an older audience.

Mr. Speaker, Eddie Fisher received his first wide exposure as frequent guest performer on Eddie Cantor's early-fifties TV broadcasts. Later responsible for million-selling records during the fifties, including ``Any Time,'' his signature song, ``O My Papa,'' and many others. In 1953 Eddie Fisher was given his own 15-minute TV show called ``Coke Time,'' sponsored by the Coca-Cola company. This show proved to be so popular that Coke then offered Eddie a $1 million contract to be their national spokesperson. A deal of that magnitude was almost unheard of at this time and helped push Fisher towards being one of the most popular singers by 1954. At the height of his popularity, during the 1950s, Fisher was, along with Perry Como and Elvis Presley, RCA Victor's top-selling pop vocalist. His many hits during this period, all well remembered, include: ``Anytime,'' his first big hit, ``Oh, My Papa,'' ``Wish You Were Here,'' ``I Need You Now,'' ``Dungaree Doll,'' ``I'm Walking Behind You,'' ``Heart,'' ``Games That Lovers Play'' and ``Somebody Like You.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Puerto Rican Panorama and Diego Castellanos.

Puerto Rican Panorama is a weekly television show on 6 ABC, the leading television station in Philadelphia. Although the show is broadcast in English, it deals exclusively with Hispanic issues and Latin culture. Panorama has been on the air uninterrupted since September 1970, making it the world's longest-running TV show of its type thus landing its host, Diego Castellanos, in the Philadelphia Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame.

Dr. Castellanos is a native of Puerto Rico who has resided in the Greater Philadelphia area most of his life. He was trained as a journalist at Marquette University in Milwaukee, holds a master's degree from Montclair State University, and earned a doctor's degree in education from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He also graduated from the New Jersey Military Academy and served as a commissioned officer in the New Jersey National Guard. He is a licensed pilot, a published author, has taught at several colleges and universities and has the skilled talent of playing the guitar.

His show, Puerto Rican Panorama, has served not only to inform the Hispanic community of issues that affect their lives, but just as important, to provide an opportunity for the mainstream audience to learn about Latinos and their culture.

Through Dr. Castellanos' hard work and dedication to his career he has been able to share a wonderful culture with many others. In recognition of his years of service to the Latino community I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Sandra Holman-Bacote, upon her retirement as a Regional Director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission which is mandated to enforce the Commonwealth's laws against discrimination.

During her 29-year tenure, Ms. Bacote has served five governors. She was the highest ranking woman in the State civil service system and she has provided exemplary service to the residents of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Under her direction, the Philadelphia regional office, which has the responsibility to direct the Commission's investigative, enforcement and adjudication responsibilities in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties, has been widely recognized because of its commitment and continuity of diligence, effectiveness and accessibility.

Fiercely committed to human and civil rights her appointment to the PHRC in 1976 was a natural fit. A distinguished alumnus of Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania, she was a part of the academic vanguard to integrate public administration and professional social work theory. Applying these disciplines she further expanded her portfolio to include international racism and discrimination as an official observer to the United Nation's Convention on the Elimination of Racism and Discrimination, in Geneva, Switzerland in 1983 and as a member of a non-Governmental Organization delegation to the United Nations Convention on the Status of Women in Nairobi, Kenya in 1985.

Throughout her career she has involved herself with hands-on community building efforts by serving on scores of community and civil rights organizations.

And as we look at her nearly three decades of leadership in the PHRC we see that she has successfully and valiantly combined government service, a sensitive and informed global perspective and a profound commitment to community and family.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Thomas Jefferson University and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital on the occasion of its Annual Awards Gala. Jefferson hospital has provided the best in health care services to countless citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The university and hospital have improved the lives of people in our region and across the nation through their research and educational programs. I applaud this remarkable institution as it leads the way to better lives in the 21st century.

It's hard to think of Jefferson without being reminded of the extraordinary contributions of two people who will be honored at the Gala this year: Dorrance H. Hamilton, who will receive the Award of Merit, and Dr. Francis E. Rosato who will receive the Achievement Award in Medicine. I give them my congratulations and my very best wishes. They and Jefferson are to be commended for a job well done, and for providing inspiration to all of us. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate these exceptional individuals.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Larry Magid and his staff at Electric Factory Concerts. On July 2, 2005 Larry Magid and his staff at Electric Factory Concerts produced the U.S. portion of LIVE 8, a concert to help eliminate poverty in Africa. Over a million people gathered on Philadelphia's Benjamin Franklin Parkway, to watch

the largest global concert ever; seen by over 3 billion people in over 130 countries. Electric Factory Concerts also produced the original LIVE AID concert in 1985, held at Philadelphia's JFK Stadium.

Of the 9 shows happening in 9 countries on July 2nd, 2005 (U.K., Japan, Russia, South Africa, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, U.S.)--the U.S. show in Philadelphia held the largest crowd.

Larry Magid and his staff at Electric Factory Concerts were instrumental in every aspect of this show's phenomenal success. Magid pulled together an extraordinary effort to make sure LIVE 8 played Philadelphia, especially as other Northeast cities vied to have the show.

Once the date and location were set, EFC had only six and a half weeks to plan and coordinate the largest show in Philadelphia's history. Magid and his staff, especially Adam Spivak, John Stevenson and Jim Sutcliffe, were vital to making this truly historic show a rousing success for both Philadelphia and the world. For this, Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my deepest gratitude and commend these men for all of their hard work in the creation of such an amazing production.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Ralph E. Blanks for his installation to the Superintendence of the Central District. An inspirational member of our community and roll model to all, Reverend Blanks has served as the Senior Pastor of Janes Memorial United Methodist Church since July of 2001. Prior, Reverend Blanks served for more than 15 years as the Pastor of Mother African Zoar United Methodist Church--the Mother Church for African Americans in the United Methodism.

Beyond his church ministry, Reverend Blanks also serves in leadership positions in several prestigious faith-based organizations. He is currently Chair of the United Methodist Metro Ministries of Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and Chair of the Resource Development Committee of the African American Interdenominational Ministries, Inc.

His religious involvement in the community is not the only extent to which Reverend Blanks gives so generously to others. He is also a current Mayoral appointee to the School District of Philadelphia Board and Chair of the City of Philadelphia's Fair Housing Commission. Among other honors, he serves as the Vice Chair of the North Philadelphia Health System, Chair of the Patient Services Committee of St. Joseph's Hospital and several community boards including the Korean Community Development Service Center and Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Inc.

Among the many awards given to Reverend Blanks, the Community Spirit Award from the African American Interdenominational Ministries; the Presidents award from the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity; the Human Rights Award from the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations; the Preacher of the Year Award by the Black United Methodist Preachers; the Outstanding Service to Community and Church Award from the City Council of Philadelphia; and the Liberty Bell Award from the City of Philadelphia.

I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Reverend Ralph E. Blanks, for his lifetime of service and dedicated commitment to the community, on his installation to the Superintendence of the Central District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor one of my most distinguished constituents, Amanda Peach Smith. Mrs. Smith, who everyone knows as Aunt Sam turned 100 years old today.

Aunt Sam moved to Philadelphia from Elloree, SC in 1925. She lived in West Philadelphia until 1931, when she moved to South Philly. In the 1950s, she returned to my part of the city, West Philadelphia.

Aunt Sam has a close and loving relationship with her community and with her God. She has been a member of the historic Union Baptist Church since 1927, shortly after her arrival in Philadelphia. A long time usher there, she was a part of the congregation that nurtured and supported Marion Anderson, Philadelphia's most famous opera singer.

Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Smith is known for her love of gardening and flowers. In so many ways, she has brought beauty and joy to all of us.

I know that all my colleagues will join me today in wishing her a happy 100th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Albert R. Robbins. Known to most of his friends as Al or ``Abbie,'' he has been a well respected pillar of the community and a man of many accomplishments since his early years.

Mr. Robbins has been a life long resident of Philadelphia. A product of the Abington Public School System, Abbie served our country with honor as a member of the US Army's 5th Division in Europe. He resumed his education after completing his tour of duty, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree from Cheyney State Teachers College in 1959. Sports and music have always been an important part of his life. While at Cheyney, he sang with the traveling choir for four years and was a member of the football team. While beginning his career as an Industrial Arts teacher in the Pottstown School District, he enrolled in graduate courses at Temple University and Penn State for his Masters degree in education. In 1964, during the Civil rights movement, Al broke through color barriers by becoming the first African American bus driver hired by Eastern Greyhound Lines where he worked part time until 1980.

Mr. Robbins has been a member of countless public service organizations, including the Sanctuary Choir of the St. Paul's Baptist Church of Philadelphia, LAAP, ALAA, NEA, PABA, NAACP, Pottstown Education Assoc., and the Montgomery County Industrial Arts Association. He is also a past commander of V.F.W. Post 3389 and a lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Mr. Robbins is retiring after 34 years of service in the field of Technology and Education with many great accomplishments. In recognition of his years of service I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him on his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the lifelong service of Mr. Robert R. Mannings. Serving in the armed service during the Korean War, Mannings selflessly devoted his life to his country and was honorably discharged in 1953. Thereafter, Mr. Mannings began his exemplary career in Philadelphia in 1958 as an employee of both North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company and Yellow Cab Company. Subsequently, he joined the Iron Workers Local 401 and served as a journeyman worker until his retirement in 1992.

As the president of the Dewey and Race Street Civic Organization for over 20 years, he improved the quality of his Philadelphia community and consequently was awarded the Philadelphia Most Beautiful Block award. Mannings' civic engagement extends to countless organizations including his active membership in the West Philadelphia New Life Development Association and the Mount Carmel Baptist Church for over 38 years.

A survivor of two bouts of severe cancer, Mannings loyalty to the American Cancer Society compelled him to create an educational video portraying the success of cancer survivors. This video is widely shown at medical conventions, in physician offices and seminars.

Robert Mannings' devotion to his community never distracted him from his role as a loving husband to Frances E. Thomas, father of two children, grandfather of five, and great grandfather of seven. In recognition of Mr. Robert R. Mannings' years of service to the city of Philadelphia, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him on his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Elmer M. Evans on his retirement from Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Evans' 24 years of contributions to the success of Wyeth has been recognized by many.

Mr. Evans began his climb up the Wyeth ladder as a Medical Sales Representative scouting Philadelphia as his territory. During his career, Elmer has been promoted nine times, each with increased responsibility. In July 2003, Elmer was appointed to the position of Executive Product Director. In this position, Elmer directed the global marketing strategy for one of the company's specialty products. During his career, Elmer has received numerous awards for sales performance and leadership in including the company's coveted Gold Cup and President's Golden Circle Awards, given only to the top 5 percent and 1 percent of sales personnel respectively.

Mr. Evans has been married to his college sweetheart, formerly Tanya M. Allen, for 20 years. Elmer and Tanya are the proud parents of two boys, Darren, 15, and Colin, 13.

Through Mr. Evans's hard work and dedication to his career and family, he retires with many great accomplishments. In recognition of his years of service to Wyeth, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him on his retirement.