Floor Statements

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the entire House of Representatives, today I pay tribute to Mr. Rodric J. Myers, Director of House Garages and Parking Security with the Sergeant at Arms. Rod has served this institution with distinction for over 40 years, as an officer with U.S. Capitol Police and with the Office of the Sergeant at Arms. On June 14, 2013, Mr. Myers will retire from the House of Representatives. His capable guidance, trusted mentorship, and steady leadership have been invaluable assets not only to his staff and colleagues, but to every Congressional office.

A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Rod Myers joined the U.S. Capitol Police in June 1972. He began as a uniform patrol officer eventually working his way to an Administrative Specialist for the Capitol Division. Rod was responsible for nearly 100 officers, the daily roster assignment of those officers, all while still working active policing assignments outside of his administrative duties. His 29 years of service were marked by a remarkable attention to detail, devotion to the institution, and professionalism of the highest order.

During Rod's tenure with the U.S. Capitol Police he had the distinct honor of working ten Presidential Inaugurations, 40 State of the Union addresses, and countless special events in between. Over the years, he met numerous dignitaries and heads of state, but as a loyal Dallas Cowboys fan, those meetings paled in comparison to greeting the Super Bowl Champions. As the U.S. Capitol Police administrative specialist, he knew this assignment needed his personal attention.

On July 9, 2001, Rod was appointed Director of House Garages and Parking Security with the Sergeant-at-Arms. Over the last 11 years, he has worked tirelessly to strengthen parking procedures to enhance the safety and security of Members and staff Coordinating with the U.S. Capitol Police and the Office of the Attending Physician, Rod created comprehensive on-going training programs for all Garages and Parking Security staff, ensuring the House is prepared for any eventuality. His involvement in continuity and contingency planning with the Sergeant at Arms has been invaluable. He worked closely with the Committee on House Administration over the years, and will be sorely missed by our Members and Staff

Rod Myers' deep and profound commitment to this institution is second to none. From the tragedy of September 11, to the anthrax scare, to an unprecedented earthquake, his gentle nature projected a sense of calm and assurance to all who encountered him. His leadership by example and ability to motivate are benchmarks in a long and distinguished career.

Please join me in commending the outstanding service of Mr. Rodric J. Myers, to the Congress of the United States and congratulating him on his retirement. We wish you well in all your future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Christina Arasim, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Christina are able to make higher education possible.

Christina's father, David Arasim, works in the Delivery Department of Meenan Oil Company. I greatly admire Christina's hard work at Pennsbury High School and her aspirations to study earth & mineral sciences. With her work ethic, I am sure Christina will be successful in whatever career she chooses.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Christina Arasim and her commitment to her community and studies that enabled her to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Colin Langan, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Colin are able to make higher education possible.

Colin's father, Thomas Langan, works in the Delivery Department of Canada Dry. I greatly admire Colin's hard work at Central Bucks High School South and his aspirations to study pre-med. With his work ethic, I am sure Colin will achieve his dream of one day becoming an Orthopedic Doctor.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Colin Langan and his commitment to his community and studies that enabled him to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Lindsey Gibbs, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Lindsey are able to make higher education possible.

Lindsey's father, Christopher Gibbs, works in the Operations Department of PBC in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I greatly admire Lindsey's hard work at Little Flower High School and her aspirations to study health administration and pre-law. With her work ethic, I am sure Lindsey will achieve her dream of one day becoming a lawyer.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Lindsey Gibbs for her commitment to her community and studies that enabled her to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Gabrielle Bamberski, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million dollars to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Gabrielle are able to make higher education possible.

Gabrielle's father, Joseph Bamberski, works in the Delivery Department of Canada Dry. I greatly admire Gabrielle's hard work at Archbishop Ryan High School and her aspirations to study forensic psychology. With her work ethic, I am sure Gabrielle will be successful in whatever career she chooses.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Gabrielle Bamberski and her commitment to her community and studies that enabled her to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Jacquelyn Bamberski, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million dollars to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Jacquelyn are able to make higher education possible.

Jacquelyn's father, Joseph Bamberski, works in the Delivery Department of Canada Dry. I greatly admire Jacquelyn's hard work at Archbishop Ryan High School and her aspirations to study biology. With her work ethic, I am sure Jacquelyn will achieve her dream of getting her Physical Therapy Doctorate.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Jacquelyn Bamberski and her commitment to her community and studies that enabled her to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Taylor Donia, the 2013 award recipient of the Louis P. Mattucci Memorial Scholarship. Over the past 37 years, the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million dollars to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Taylor are able to make higher education possible.

Taylor's father, Joseph Donia, is a truck driver for American B & D. I greatly admire Taylor's hard work at Seneca High School. With her work ethic, I am sure Taylor will achieve her dream of one day becoming a Physician's Assistant.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Taylor Donia and her commitment to her community and studies that enabled her to become the 2013 award recipient of the Louis P. Mattucci Memorial Scholarship.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Daniel Gindhart, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Daniel are able to make higher education possible.

Daniel's father, Daniel Gindhart Sr., works in the Warehouse Department of PBC in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I greatly admire Daniel's hard work at Triton Regional High School and his aspirations to study accounting. With his work ethic, I am sure Daniel will achieve his dream of one day becoming a Certified Public Accountant.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Daniel Gindhart and his commitment to his community and studies that enabled him to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute today for Brandi Zieminski, a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund. Over the past 37 years, this important fund has awarded scholarships totaling over $2.7 million to talented young adults throughout our community. Because of the hard work of the members of Teamsters Local 830 and the employers of these members, students like Brandi are able to make higher education possible.

Brandi's father, Theodore Zieminski, works in the Facilities Department of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I greatly admire Brandi's hard work at Archbishop Ryan High School and her aspirations to study secondary education. With her work ethic, I am sure Brandi will achieve her dream of one day becoming a high school teacher.

I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues help me in honoring Brandi Zieminski and her commitment to her community and studies that enabled her to become a 2013 award recipient of the Teamsters Local 830 Scholarship Fund.