October 15, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2549 the 1870s on the heels of political turmoil in These two brothers have, as Jim Kendall’s science. Working with, most notably, Drs. Poland. statement points out, been extremely creative Brian Rothschild and Kevin Stokesbury from According to the Texas State Historical As- in providing support for this industry. The work the School for Marine Science and Tech- sociation Houston there were 55,000 people of nology at the University of Massachusetts, they have done for the open display auction Dartmouth. They have also helped to orga- Polish descent in Houston in 2000. Aspects of confounded many skeptics who thought that it nize the fishermen not only here in New Bed- the Polish culture are important to Houston’s would never work, but their success in New ford, but in Gloucester as well. heritage and are celebrated in our annual Pol- Bedford has in fact been so widely hailed that What may turn out to be one of their most ish Festival and Polish Film Festival. Houston it’s led to the recent opening of a similar facil- important innovations is the Project to Save is also the home to a Polish consulate. I am ity in Boston, helping revive a fishing port that Seafood and Ocean Resources, along with its proud to support this resolution as an ac- had been declining to some extent. associated website, Savingseafood.org. knowledgement of Houston’s enduring ties Madam Speaker, I join Jim Kendall and oth- At a time when information is king, pro- viding factual and unadulterated informa- with Poland. ers in the fishing industry and subsidies in tion to the American public is crucial. There The relationship between the Massachusetts in thanking Ray and Richie is a desperate need to show the American and Poland was first formally established in Canastra for their work and I ask that Jim consumer the value of New Bedford seafood, the wake of World War I. In 1919, the U.S. Kendall’s statement be printed here as an ex- and the efforts that the New Bedford and and the newly-formed Polish Republic estab- ample of the kind of economic leadership indi- New England fishermen have taken in order lished diplomatic ties creating a formal rela- viduals can provide to their community. to provide them with healthy seafood. There tionship between governments that also OFFSHORE MARINERS is also a need to inform the consumer how served to symbolize the shared cultural herit- WIVES’ ASSOCIATION, we are striving to provide them their September 27, 2009. healthy seafood in a safe and sustainable age. Twenty years ago, communism fell in Po- manner. The American consumer and public INTRODUCTION OF 2009’S ‘‘FRIENDS OF THE land and was replaced with a democratic gov- also needs to know what the fishermen and FISHING INDUSTRY’’ ernment and market economy. While the rela- their industry has gone through in order to tionship between the U.S. and Poland was at This year’s award to the Friend of the bring this to them. I encourage you to visit times difficult under communism, the spirit of Fishing Industry is a bit different as we are the website at www.savingseafood.org. proud to announce that the award is going to mutualism and desire for cultural exchange Richie lives in North Dartmouth, with his not just one, but two individuals. Not only wife Roberta, and their two lovely daugh- endured. The Fulbright Educational Exchange have they contributed to the fishing indus- Program began in Poland in 1959 allowing ters, Sophia, and Noella. Raymond lives in try here in New Bedford, but their efforts Rochester with his wife Debbie and their two students from both sides of the Iron Curtain to have extended throughout New England. children Cassie and Kyler. maintain and grow our shared heritage. It’s not often that you find two people who It gives me great pleasure to present ‘‘The In the 20 years since the fall of communism, have come so far in a relatively short period Friend of the Fishing Industry Award’’ to Poland has also developed into a strong ally of time, and who have returned so much to two men whom I’m proud to have worked for our country. In 1999, Poland joined the the industry that they obviously care so with over the years, my friends; Raymond much about. Their innovation and foresight and Richard Canastra. North Atlantic Treaty Organization, NATO, ce- has not only proven to be a sound business menting our shared military interest. Poland venture for them, but a boon and stabilizing f has been a strong diplomatic and military ally factor for the Greater New Bedford fishing A TRIBUTE TO JACK LEFKOWITZ in our struggle against terrorism across the fleet. It hasn’t stop there either, their for- globe by contributing troops to U.S.-led coali- titude and determination now has extended tions. Poland has also demonstrated its close to the ports of Gloucester and Boston. HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS ideological relationship with the United States They pioneered the concept of the open dis- OF through joint efforts on democratization, nu- play auction here in New Bedford at a time IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and place when many of us doubted it could clear proliferation, human rights, Eastern Euro- succeed. In 1985 through 1986 the industry Thursday, October 15, 2009 pean affairs, and reforming the United Na- had gone through a traumatic strike that Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today tions. The United States and Poland have a changed the way business had been done for in recognition of Jack Lefkowitz for his record strong relationship and I am proud to support many years. The New Bedford seafood auc- of extraordinary service to New York’s Tenth this resolution celebrating the 90 years of dip- tion ceased to exist, and a buyers auction Congressional District. lomatic relations. that replaced it, had also closed its doors. Jack Lefkowitz is the President and Chief The industry was in turmoil, with little or f no sense of balance that had existed for Executive Officer of New York MedScan, pro- ‘‘FRIENDS OF THE FISHING years before. The sale of a trip was as hard viding high quality diagnostic imaging services INDUSTRY’’ and as uncertain, as was the fishing trip in a comfortable hospital outpatient environ- itself. ment. He greatly contributes to the quality of They felt that an open display auction life for ’s neediest patients, working HON. BARNEY FRANK could work and benefit the fishermen, and through the organization Yad Ephraim to pre- OF MASSACHUSETTS the port of New Bedford, and they set about pare and deliver home-cooked meals tailored IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to prove it. It wasn’t easy, it never is trying to the needs of each patient. Mr. Lefkowitz to convince people that there is a better way Thursday, October 15, 2009 to do their business, business that they had chairs Maskil El Dat, providing financial aid, meals, transportation, babysitting, and emo- Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. Madam been doing in basically the same way for tional support for impoverished Jewish fami- Speaker, I have never learned more in my life years. They have proven that they were right, and the New Bedford fishing industry lies. I applaud Jack Lefkowitz’s philanthropic than I have learned since 1992 when at the has benefited greatly because of it. The auc- activities, contributing both professionally and vote of the Massachusetts Legislature, the city tion has provided stability to the sale of privately in our communities. of New Bedford and the town of Fairhaven fresh fish and scallops, along with the rec- Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to were included in the congressional district I ognition that New Bedford is still the port to join me in recognizing Jack Lefkowitz. represent. These two communities together go to for your best seafood. form the most successful fishing port in the Their efforts in beginning the auction and f U.S., and that industry enriches New Bedford the continued developments, have helped the CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF HAR- and the surrounding areas not just economi- port of New Bedford regain the title of the richest fishing port in the country, and con- LEM’S BELOVED THORNTON J. cally but culturally and socially as well. tinues to help us maintain that distinction. MEACHAM, JR., ESQ. A TRAIL- One of the leaders in that industry is Jim Recently they opened another display auc- BLAZER FOR AFRICAN-AMERI- Kendall, a fisherman himself who has served tion in the port of Boston, that is attracting CANS, LAWYERS AND LEGAL in a number of important posts in helping pre- fishing vessels to a port that was all but PROFESSIONALS serve that industry and protect it against ad- abandoned by the fishing industry. This is in versity. direct contradiction to what has been occur- ring elsewhere, with the devastating changes HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL He recently wrote an eloquent introduction OF NEW YORK to the announcement of the Friend of the Fish- for other ports that have lost not only their auctions, but their fishing industries and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing Industry Award, which was presented to communities. Thursday, October 15, 2009 two men to whom the Greater New Bedford Their involvement has deepened over the Area is greatly indebted: Raymond and Rich- years with them becoming deeply involved Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise with ard Canastra. with the management process and fishery great pride as I pay tribute to my dear friend

VerDate Nov 24 2008 05:06 Oct 16, 2009 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A15OC8.026 E15OCPT1 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with REMARKS E2550 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 15, 2009 and life-long buddy, Thornton J. Meacham, Jr., some of Harlem’s elite class of attorneys, co- Singapore, Bangkok, Saudi Arabia, India, Esq., as we celebrate one of Harlem’s great- founded the Harlem Lawyers Association, Spain, and Thailand during their time in South- est legal advocates at the great Cathedral of which later merged into the Metropolitan Black east Asia. Riverside Church in Harlem today. As I speak Bar Association. The family eventually returned to California with profound honor and respect for my friend Thornton Meacham was a very active mem- for their last assignment on Travis Air Force Thornton, I ascend to celebrate a life well-lived ber of the National Bar Association (NBA) and Base. After Dick retired as an Air Force Lieu- and to also remember the many legal profes- was acknowledged as a legal dignitary by the tenant Colonel in 1973, the couple built their sional accomplishments of this remarkable organization on several occasions. He was a dream home in Walnut Creek. When the man. Thornton Meacham etched his name in recipient of the NBA Wiley A. Branton Issues Bean’s two eldest children had left for college history as a passionate and dedicated legal Award and in 1994, he was inducted into the and their youngest was a high school sopho- advocate for all African-American lawyers and prestigious National Black Association Hall of more, Millie returned to work and decided to legal professionals throughout this city and Fame, which recognizes lawyers who have pursue a college degree herself. Nation. practiced for over 40 years and have made While working full time, Millie graduated Thornton’s death on October 4, 2009, significant contributions to the cause of justice. Cum Laude from the University of San Fran- brought immense sorrow and loss to me, his Thornton was a member of the Alpha Phi cisco with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Millie family, his friends, and to the countless lives Alpha Fraternity and the Williams Institutional then began a respected career with the Ala- he touched over the years in our beloved Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Har- meda Naval Air Station where she earned nu- community. I am blessed to say that I was lem. merous awards, including the Meritorious Civil- able to have spent some time with Thornton Meacham’s extraordinary accomplishments ian Service Award, the highest honor given by during his final days. As we said our good- as a revered legal professional exemplified the the Navy to a civilian. At the time of her retire- byes, he left in my heart a reminder of all the pioneering leadership of many through his ment in 1996, Millie had contributed 27 years many exciting moments of his life and all of commitment and exemplary service to the of service to the Navy and was a GM–13 Per- the good times we shared together. He was legal community. He will long be remembered formance Review Division Head. undisputedly one of Harlem’s greatest lawyers, for his extraordinary commitment, humor, live- In the midst of many accomplishments, largely responsible for blacks being admitted liness, energy, wisdom, discipline, principle Millie was quick to remind others that she was to the New York Bar Association. This strong- and clear purpose which won the admiration most proud of her children, Tony Bean, Kim- willed and exciting man represented Harlem in of all who were privileged to come to know berly Perry, and Laurie Adams. Millie’s highest all of its glory, and we are all consumed by his and work with him during his distinguished ca- priority was to nurture and enjoy her extended passing. reer. family, which grew as her children married Thornton J. Meacham, Jr. was born on Madam Speaker, I consider myself fortunate their spouses and gave Millie and Dick five March 10, 1917 in Terrell, Arkansas as the to have had the opportunity to observe and beautiful grandchildren. first son to Dr. Thornton J. Meacham and Lila experience his example as a personal inspira- I have known Millie for many years. Her Celesta. His younger brother, Dr. Henry Wade tion. Though Thornton is no longer with us, we generosity, her friendship and her beautiful Meacham, who also had an outstanding pro- will continue to keep his memory alive in our smile will forever be etched in my heart. She fessional career passed away in 2004. After hearts and minds, and continue to honor his was a consistent supporter and encouraged the family moved to Jackson, Tennessee, legacy with our advocacy for the issues he me every step of the way. I cherished her Thornton attended public school and grad- cared about the most. friendship and will miss her tremendously. uated from Lane College. Upon his graduation f After retirement, Millie and Dick enjoyed from college, Thornton was accepted to attend season tickets to the symphony and ballet, law school at , Columbia HONORING MILDRED ROSS BEAN travel adventures in Europe and Asia, week- University and New York University, but chose end getaways in Cannel, and a final vacation to attend , thus becoming HON. to Hawaii that Dick will forever treasure. the second African American to attend Ford- OF CALIFORNIA Millie’s joy for life was not only contagious, but ham University and the first to graduate from IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES an invaluable lesson to her loved ones in its Law School in 1942. Thursday, October 15, 2009 times of uncertainty and doubt. Just a few years ago, we all celebrated Always social and active, Millie kept a Thornton’s 66th Anniversary of his graduation Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I monthly lunch date with friends and enjoyed from Fordham Law School. He loved Fordham rise today to honor the extraordinary life of taking her grandchildren to the Nutcracker Bal- Law and dedicated his entire life to helping Mrs. Mildred Bean of Walnut Creek, California. let. Undoubtedly, the countless small and sub- young aspiring jurists succeed. A proud wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and tle acts of love that Millie demonstrated in her Admitted to the Bar in 1943, Thornton set friend. ‘‘Millie’’ was exemplary in her uncondi- lifetime will continue to be powerful gifts to the the mark that raised the bar for all of us. He tional familial devotion, diligent work ethic, people she cherished most. was the first Black attorney to join the legal dedicated national service, and her love of Today, California’s 9th Congressional Dis- staff of the Office of Price Stabilization on arts and travel. With her passing on May 27, trict salutes and honors a great human being, Broadway in New York; first to argue a case 2009, we look to Millie’s family to remind us of our beloved Millie Bean. We extend our deep- before the United States Court of Appeals for her life’s journey and the joyful legacy she in- est condolences to Millie’s husband and fam- the Second Circuit; first African American to spired. ily. Thank you for sharing her great spirit with be featured on the cover of The New York Mildred Ross was born on January 30, 1934 us. May her soul rest in peace. Law Journal; first to try both criminal and civil in Sacramento, California. After graduating f cases in the Bronx and Queens County high school, Millie began local secretarial work Courts; and the first to open a law practice in for the government. As her family fondly tells PERSONAL EXPLANATION Harlem. it, Millie’s long love story with Air Force officer Thornton always spoke of his experiences in Richard ‘‘Dick’’ Bean began when he spotted HON. , JR. the 1950s when the New York City Bar Asso- her in a red party dress. The two were soon OF MICHIGAN ciation refused him membership due to his married and embarked on a military career IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES race. During segregation, he tried and won that would span the next two decades. cases in Florida, North Carolina, Virginia and Over the following ten years, Millie and Dick Thursday, October 15, 2009 New Jersey. He represented Hulan Jack, Con- raised their three young children on Long Is- Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, on Octo- gressman Adam C. Powell, Dorothy land, New York’s Suffolk County Air Force ber 14, 2009, I was unable to cast votes, due Dandridge, Louis Armstrong, Bessie Bu- Base. After a brief assignment in North Caro- to personal reasons. I was not present for roll- chanan, Mile Davis, the NAACP and Carver lina, the family moved to Clark Air Force Base call votes 775 through 779. Had I been National Bank—a legacy of history that makes located in the Philippines. present, I would have casted a ‘‘yea’’ vote for us all proud to be Americans. It was there that Millie and her family had final passage of H. Res. 768, Expressing sup- Thornton Meacham was Counsel to the law the great joy of spending two years stationed port for the designation of the month of Octo- offices of Assemblyman William T. Andrews, together with her sister Laura Brown, Laura’s ber as ‘‘National Work and Family Month’’; Judge Harold Stevens and Attorney John husband Joe, and their four children. Millie H.R. 1327, Iran Sanctions Enabling Act of Briggs. He later became a Law Partner to also enjoyed her time abroad by cultivating a 2009; H. Res. 816, Mourning the loss of life Judge Thomas Dickens. Thornton, along with love of travel. She and Dick were able to visit caused by the earthquakes and tsunamis that

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