October 16, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1699 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

100TH ANNIVERSARY OF BOY HONORING THE FAYETTE Mr. Speaker, Senator Arlen Specter will be SCOUT TROOP 21, ROCHESTER, MN SPIRITUAL AIRES remembered for the important bipartisan role he played. HON. TIMOTHY J. WALZ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON I urge my colleagues to join me in the mourning and remembering Senator Arlen OF MINNESOTA OF MISSISSIPPI Specter. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Tuesday, October 16, 2012 IN RECOGNITION OF THOMAS Mr. WALZ of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I ask Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- TIGHE the House to join me today in honoring the er, I rise today to honor a Gospel Singers’ 100th anniversary of Boy Scout Troop 21 in Group, The Fayette Spiritual Aires. Rochester, Minnesota. Troop 21 is one of the In 1975, God gave Jimmy Jackson a vision HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. oldest and hardest working Boy Scout troops to organize a gospel quartet group, which he OF NEW JERSEY in Minnesota. named ‘‘The Fayette Spiritual Aires’’. Through- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Over the years, thousands of young men out the years, this group has touched many Tuesday, October 16, 2012 lives and led many to Christ through its sing- have passed through their program, learning Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to valuable leadership and life skills while also ing ministry. The Fayette Spiritual Aires has been congratulate Mr. Thomas Tighe as he is rec- enjoying outdoor activities and performing ognized by the Kiddie Keep Well Camp on the service projects. Over 160 of Troop 21’s blessed to do three professional recordings: In 1986, 1992 and their latest album in 2009. occasion of their 10th Annual Fall Gala. Mr. scouts have reached Eagle Scout—the high- Tighe is truly deserving of the Camp’s 2012 est achievement level possible in Boy Scouts. Jimmy Jackson, the founder of this group, served as manager and lead singer until his Civic Leader of Distinction honor. The Boy Scouts of America reached its cen- Currently serving as President of the Central tennial in 1910 with a renewed call for greater sudden death in 2002. The group is currently managed by James Labor Council of Middlesex and Somerset community service. In 2010, Troop 21 an- Counties, Mr. Tighe touts an impressive re- swered this call and performed 494 hours of E. Oliver and the supporting members are: Erma Clark, Carlton Brown, Ellison Brown, sume of experience with organized labor. community service ranging from trash collec- Since his 5 year apprenticeship in the United tion, food drives, and projects to improve local Freddie Blanton, Adrick Hunter, Kendrick Hun- ter, Derrick Varnado, Dwayne Thompson and Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters in churches and parks. 1971, Mr. Tighe has steadily become a vital With the people of Minnesota, I ask this James Jones. Fred Hunter is a former mem- ber of this group and one of the first pro- leader of the labor organization, having served Chamber to join in celebrating Boy Scout as President of Local 9 of Central New Jersey; Troop 21’s 100-year anniversary. moters of professional gospel quartet groups in Southwest Mississippi. an Executive Board Member and Trustee of f Other members of the group that have de- the Pension, Welfare and Surety Fund; and IN RECOGNITION OF THE YAR- parted life and left us with their memories are: head of the Mega Base Organizing Com- MOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE the late Rev. David White, Moses Turner and mittee, among others. In addition to his roles Roosevelt Buie who were all dedicated to the within the union, Mr. Tighe is an active mem- Fayette Spiritual Aires. ber in his community and throughout Mid- HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING This group has been inspired by personal dlesex County. He serves as a member of the OF MASSACHUSETTS performances with other professional gospel Boy Scouts of America Executive Board of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES groups and has traveled to many cities Central New Jersey Council; as Vice Chair of Tuesday, October 16, 2012 throughout the United States performing their Middlesex County College Board of Trustees; and as a member of the Board of the Mid- Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ministry through gospel singing. dlesex County Board of Social Services. recognize the Yarmouth Chamber of Com- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Additionally, Mr. Tighe has served as a merce upon its fiftieth anniversary. The Cham- in honoring The Fayette Spiritual Aires, a Mis- Board Member of Kiddie Keep Well Camp for ber of Commerce plays an essential role in sissippi Gospel Singing Group. 13 years. Kiddie Keep Well Camp has served the Yarmouth community, connecting local f underprivileged children in Middlesex County businesses and offering visitors an insider’s THE PASSING OF SENATOR ARLEN for over 80 years. It is a place where children, perspective on much of what this beautiful SPECTER who may not otherwise have been able to at- coastal town has to offer. tend summer camp, can participate in activi- Founded in 1962, the Chamber of Com- HON. LAURA RICHARDSON ties and learn valuable life skills and lessons. merce has grown to be comprised of nearly OF CALIFORNIA Mr. Tighe’s commitment to his community is 400 members. From museums and charities to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES evident in his service to the Kiddie Keep Well banks, churches, and seaside restaurants, the Camp. Chamber represents a diverse array of the or- Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Mr. Speaker, once again, please join me in ganizations that help to give Yarmouth its Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulating Thomas Tighe on his 2012 unique character. Every day, these businesses commemorate the life and achievements of Civic Leader of Distinction honor. Mr. Tighe’s provide vital services to Yarmouth’s year- Senator Arlen Specter. On October 14, 2012, leadership roles and dedication to Middlesex round residents and to its countless visitors. Senator Arlen Specter passed on due to com- County is truly deserving of this body’s rec- The many years of hard work by the Yarmouth plications of non-Hodgkins lymphoma; he was ognition. Chamber of Commerce have been essential in 82. developing Yarmouth’s vitality, a characteristic Mr. Speaker, Senator Arlen Specter was a f that draws so many to this beachside town dedicated public servant who served as a sen- HONORING THE KAISER SINGERS every year. ator for the state of Pennsylvania. He made Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking the tremendous and long-lived contributions to HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce, its leaders, Pennsylvania and to our nation. OF MISSISSIPPI and the hundreds of businesses and organiza- Senator Arlen Specter was a leader on IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tions for their years of service to the town of criminal justice issues and foreign affairs. He Yarmouth. I am certain that the Chamber’s also worked on stem cell research legislation Tuesday, October 16, 2012 and its member organizations’ futures will be with Democrats as part of his fight to advance Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- bright. health care research. er, I rise today to honor a remarkable group,

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K16OC8.001 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1700 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 16, 2012 The Kaiser Singers. The Kaiser Singers have friends as Merv. I will remember him most for Choir Director at Mount Layton Missionary become a household name for many. Their his tremendous work helping African Ameri- Baptist Church in Ruleville, Mississippi, and music has stirred the spirits and hearts of cans in California succeed in politics at all lev- Mount Moriah Christian Methodist Episcopal music lovers both young and old. els of government. Church in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Ms. Davis The group was formed in 1968 by Mrs. Bea- Merv served as a California assemblyman, has been a pianist for various churches and trice Kaiser and her daughters, Annie, Hattie state senator, and lieutenant governor and as receives many invitations to sing at numerous and Estella. They had no idea that this would a Member of Congress for over a decade. Christian and civic events. be the beginning of a lifelong inspiration. The However, I will remember him for the role he Ms. Davis’ family lineage includes renowned group’s early years of singing was done most- played in providing leadership, political rep- blues legend Nellie ‘‘Tiger’’ Travis. Her ten sib- ly in churches around their hometown of resentation, and for his efforts to increase ac- lings, Jorgen, Clinton, Patricia, Audrey, Debra, Yazoo City, Mississippi. During those years cessibility to health care in African American Metra, Glynis, Almeta, Sonya and Bethina all they sang a cappella, learning to make sweet communities. He also was a champion for sing and play the piano. harmony with their voices. education, social justice, economic oppor- Ms. Davis believes gospel music is a min- After their first year of singing, the group tunity, and an enlightened U.S. policy toward istry because it ministers to the soul of people. was joined by Mrs. Kaiser’s sister, Francine, Africa and the Caribbean. He was instrumental She has received many accolades from con- and then later by her youngest daughter, in establishing the nursing school at Charles gregations and people who are fortunate to Linda. In the early 70’s, Ms. Diane Jones and Drew University, which is named after him. hear her sing. Her daughters, Sharita, Ms. Christine Burns joined the Kaiser Singers In 2006, I had the great honor of serving Sharlette and Simone have developed a love for a short while and Ms. Jones became the with Merv in the California State Assembly. He for gospel music. Sharita sings alongside her group’s first musician. Several years later Mrs. was a trailblazer who opened doors and mother at events and sings as a soloist. Kaiser’s son, Mr. Walter Ross, and a friend, mentored the next generation of political lead- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Mr. Jamel Barley, joined the group as their ers, myself included. Merv had the foresight to in recognizing Ms. Karen Davis as an inspira- musicians for a few months. see the possibility of increasing African Amer- tional gospel singer. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me ican representation in elective offices all f in recognizing the Kaiser Singers. around the country. Merv legitimized our ef- CONGRATULATING VETERINARY f forts and succeeded by establishing the larg- est Legislative Black Caucus in California his- SERVICE INC. (VSI) IN HONOR OF THE RETIREMENT tory, coined the ‘‘Divine Nine.’’ OF LINDA SCHIMMEL Just five short months into my first term as HON. JEFF DENHAM a state assemblywoman, Merv was one of the OF CALIFORNIA HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN mentors who encouraged me to run for the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF MARYLAND seat vacated by the untimely passing of the Tuesday, October 16, 2012 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES late Congresswoman Juanita Millender McDonald. Merv and I often shared many con- Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Tuesday, October 16, 2012 versations about how to best serve the people recognize and congratulate Veterinary Service Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, on the oc- of the 37th Congressional District. Inc., VSI, which will be inducted as a member casion of her retirement after nearly 36 years Merv was by my side again this year, work- of the Stanislaus County Ag Hall of Fame of federal service, I would like to recognize a ing to educate the community on the impor- ‘‘Legends in Agriculture’’ during a ceremony in member of the staff of the Congressional tance of voting and preserving African Amer- Modesto, California, on November 8, 2012. Budget Office: Linda Schimmel. Her last day ican representation. Merv has been a steady VSI is a success story some fifty-two years with the agency will be this Friday, October guide throughout my political career and for in the making. Headquartered in Modesto, VSI 19. Linda Schimmel has spent almost all of that I am blessed for having known him and provides a diverse supply of animal health her federal career as the Publications Coordi- learned from him. products. The company was founded in the nator at CBO, working for all eight of its direc- Merv was a great leader, mentor and friend late 1950’s when Frank Sweetman, a local tors as well as the several acting directors in and he will be sorely missed. I extend my sales representative for a chemical supply between. In that role, she has provided exem- prayers to his family, offer my willingness to company, invited two veterinarians, Dr. Willis plary and faithful service in distributing CBO assist, and say thank you for sharing life’s Woodward and Dr. Donald Rosenberg, to join analyses, making certain to get them into the most precious treasures: time, life and love of him in establishing an animal health and nutri- hands of Members of Congress, Congres- a political father to us all. tion distributorship. John Pugliese then sional and agency staff, and members of the Mr. Speaker, I ask for a moment of silence teamed up with Sweetman to form the new public in a timely way. Her knowledge and in memory of Mervyn Dymally. company’s sales team. These four leaders’ hard work have meant that CBO’s publications f decision to band together would forever office has provided customer service to an ex- change their lives. traordinary degree over the years, service that HONORING MS. KAREN DAVIS Poultry was a major focus for the company goes well beyond what is necessary and ex- during its first 20 years. Dr. Woodward be- pected—to show real devotion to helping cus- HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON came a renowned poultry pathologist, spend- tomers. For all that she has done, she has OF MISSISSIPPI ing much of his time developing innovative earned the admiration and affection of her col- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES products for the poultry industry. The company leagues at CBO and the gratitude of the U.S. gradually expanded its offerings from poultry Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Congress. I am wishing her well in her retire- nutrition, to feed additives, to sanitation prod- ment. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- ucts and more. As the company continued to f er, I rise today to honor a remarkable gospel succeed, it explored ways to expand the busi- singer, Karen Davis. M. Davis was raised in a ness to meet the needs of more agricultural THE DEATH OF MERVYN musical home in Mound Bayou, Mississippi by industries. In 1979, John Scheuber was hired DYMALLY her parents Ms. Betsy Jackson and the late to be the General Manager for the company— Joseph Jackson. Her mother a pianist has a which by this point, included locations in Mo- HON. LAURA RICHARDSON gospel group called the Jackson Starlets for- desto, Fresno, Perris and Petaluma. Soon OF CALIFORNIA merly known as the Jackson Starters. At the thereafter, VSI expanded to the retail feed IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES age of 3 years old, Ms. Davis began singing store business. in Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church choir In the 1990’s, the company set out on an Tuesday, October 16, 2012 and also at rehearsals with her mother’s ambitious expansion plan that included estab- Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, it is my group. Ms. Davis was active in music classes lishing a distribution center in Oregon. In regrettable duty to report the death of a in junior high and high school where she 1995, VSI ventured in to dairy sales in the persnal hero and a great American, former played the piano and sang with the school southern San Joaquin Valley; and four years Congressman Mervyn Dymally. Mr. Dymally choir. later, it purchased Merced Dairy Supply to im- died Sunday, October 7, 2012. He was 86. I After marrying Mr. Terry Davis and moving prove sales to dairies throughout Central Cali- was deeply saddened to learn about the pass- to Shelby, Mississippi, she expanded her gos- fornia. Over the years, the dairy market has ing of my dear friend Mervyn, known to his pel singing and piano expertise by becoming provided the company with great growth and

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16OC8.004 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS October 16, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1701 continues to be a major share of the com- ber of the All-District team throughout the Mr. Speaker, please join me in leading this pany’s sales. Delta, and named the #2 player in the Delta. body in celebration of the Twin Lights Historic As part of the company’s expansion efforts, Sylvia is a member of the Senior Beta Club, Site’s 150th anniversary celebration. The Twin it diversified its product offerings to include pet Student Council Association, and Students Lights Historic Site has played a pivotal role in products. Seeing increased opportunity in the Making a Change (SMAC). In August 2012, American and New Jersey history, and it is pet segment, VSI purchased LA Pet, a primary Sylvia plans to attend Jackson State Univer- with great pleasure that I am able to join them pet food distributor, in 2001. With the acquisi- sity and major in Mathematics. in their celebration. tion, VSI became a one-stop supply option for Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me f all pet items needed by any retailer. VSI also in recognizing Ms. Sylvia Jones for her deter- expanded its efforts internationally when it mination and strive for excellence in education HONORING THE PUBLIC SERVICE teamed with a Chinese customer, Alix Co., to and leadership. WORKS OF MRS. NORMA SIAS establish ASI, Animal Supplies International, f which imported products into the U.S. VSI HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON IN RECOGNITION OF THE TWIN then became the owner of ASI and its sister OF MISSISSIPPI LIGHTS 150TH ANNIVERSARY company, JC Logistics, JCL—a freight for- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES warding company which moves containers for Tuesday, October 16, 2012 importing and exporting. With involvement in HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. ASI and JCL, VSI became internationally con- OF NEW JERSEY Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- nected. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES er, I rise today to honor a resourceful and am- bitious woman, Mrs. Norma Sias. Mrs. Sias is In 2004, Dr. Woodward passed away, and Tuesday, October 16, 2012 John Scheuber succeeded him as the Presi- a living testament to what can be done dent and CEO. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to through hard work, perseverance and dedica- The focus on innovation by VSI’s founders recognize The Twin Lights Historical Site in tion. established a solid foundation for the com- Highlands, New Jersey on the occasion of Born July 24, 1943 to parents Leodis and pany, as well as a culture for success that re- their 150th anniversary celebration. The cur- Ukele York in Leona, Mississippi, Mrs. Sias is mains today. The company not only supports rent structure, built in 1862, was commis- a graduate of Jordan High School in Carthage, the growing agricultural industry, but it has es- sioned by the United States Light House Mississippi and current resident of Rolling tablished a standard of employee relations Board in the 1850s to provide the waters sur- Fork, Mississippi. which has greatly contributed to the com- rounding New York Harbor with a more per- Norma obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in pany’s success and positioned it for strong manent structure and to replace the existing Literature in 1966 from Jackson State Univer- growth in the future. The four original stock- structures which had fallen into disrepair. sity after which she began teaching at Henry holders established a company that thrives be- Prior to the 1820s, the only lighthouse in the Weathers High School in Rolling Fork. After cause of its successful strategy to retain tal- area surrounding New York Harbor was the four years of teaching English, Mrs. Sias be- ented employees. It introduced an innovative Sandy Hook Lighthouse. However, with the came Librarian at Henry Weathers in 1970 and motivational Profit Sharing Plan in 1972; completion of the Erie Canal in 1825, Con- and then later returned to Jackson State Uni- and in 1991, it developed an Employee Stock gress realized the need for an additional struc- versity to continue her studies in Library Ownership Program, which enables each em- ture in the area of New York Harbor to ensure Science. ployee to own corporate stock. ships had an additional tool they could use to After completing her work at Jackson State Today, at 52 years strong, VSI and its 220 safely navigate the treacherous waters off University, Norma then ventured on to receive employee-owners continue to provide quality Northern New Jersey. In 1828, two structures her Masters in Library Science from Delta products and customer-driven service for all were constructed on the current site of the State University, to shortly thereafter become segments of the animal health industry. VSI Twin Lights, but in the 1850s, the U.S. Light Librarian of Anguilla High School, until she re- continues to be a strong supporter of the com- House Board realized there was a need for a tired after 34 years of service in 2004. munity, as well as a leader in the agricultural more permanent structure in the location of In addition to her work as Librarian, Mrs. industry. Highlands, New Jersey. In 1862, the perma- Sias serves as the president of the South Mr. Speaker, please join me in praising VSI, nent structure as it stands was completed. Delta Retired Education Personnel office, sec- Veterinary Services Inc., for their significant The Twin Lights, named for the dual Fresnel retary of the Issaquena Credit Union and sec- contributions to agriculture and to the people lenses which were placed in two adjacent tow- retary of St. Peter Missionary Baptist Church. of our local community. ers, began to emanate light from the hillside of She is also an active member of Vicksburg Highlands, New Jersey. f Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Soror- In addition to its significance as a navigation ity, Inc. where she continues to work as a civil HONORING MS. SYLVIA JONES tool for ships in the New York Harbor, the site servant, participating in countless public serv- was also home to several important and his- ice activities. HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON torical moments in U.S. history. In 1893, the Mrs. Norma Sias has been married to Mr. OF MISSISSIPPI site was chosen for the first reading of the Melvin Sias for 41 years to their union they IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pledge of allegiance. In 1898, the south tower have one daughter, Melanie. of Twin Lights was electrified, and became the Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Tuesday, October 16, 2012 only on-shore lighthouse in the U.S. to have in recognizing Mrs. Norma Sias for her dedica- Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- its own generator. Guglielmo Marconi in 1899 tion to serving our great her community and er, I rise today to honor a remarkable young tested his telegraph technology at the site, Sharkey County Schools. woman, Ms. Sylvia Jones. Sylvia was raised in where it became evident that this new form of f Belzoni, Mississippi, by her parents, Marvin communication would revolutionize the way and Timaka Jones. people communicated. By the 1930s and IN RECOGNITION OF DR. BRIAN Sylvia has always strived for excellence. 1940s, the role of Twin Lights began to dimin- ROTHSCHILD Her committed determination has earned her ish, as new technologies began to emerge. the Principal Scholar awards. Her high school However, during the 1940s, Twin Lights was HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING grade point average is 3.70, putting her at the chosen by the U.S. government as the primary OF MASSACHUSETTS top of Humphreys County High School Class location to test radar technology, something IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of 2012, and earning her the title of Valedic- which played a pivotal role in helping the U.S. torian. and its allies obtain victory in World War II. In Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Sylvia has worked hard and has been active 1962, the Twin Lights Historic Site was trans- Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to in different sports and organizations since she ferred to the authority of the State of New Jer- recognize Dr. Brian Rothschild on his receipt was in elementary school. During her high sey, and is currently on the State and National of the 2012 Prince Henry Society Award. On school years, she played basketball and Registry of Historic Places. Although the tow- October 20, he will be recognized for his con- served as a leader among her peers. She also ers of Twin Lights were decommissioned in tributions to the maritime and fishing indus- played, softball, tennis, and ran track, which 1952, the light of the south tower still shines tries. led to many athletic awards including the today as a navigational tool for private naviga- Dr. Rothschild has long dedicated his life in Coach’s Award, Best Offensive Player, mem- tors. pursuit of better science and instruction. He

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16OC8.008 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1702 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 16, 2012 currently serves as Co-Director of the Massa- HONORING MR. TYRONE DAVIS equally productive stay that lasted into the chusetts Marine Fisheries Institute at the new millennium. Tyrone Davis continued to re- School for Marine Science and Technology at HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON lease new albums every year or two, and the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. OF MISSISSIPPI toured the soul/blues circuit as restlessly as His contributions to the marine fisheries in- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ever. Tyrone Davis suffered a stroke in Octo- dustry extend from studies of population dy- ber of 2004 and remained hospitalized until Tuesday, October 16, 2012 namics and biological oceanography to fish- his death in February of 2005. eries management and natural resources pol- Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me icy. This is not the first time his expertise has er, I rise today to honor a remarkable blues in recognizing Mr. Tyrone Davis, a great blues been recognized. In 2004, he received an Out- artist, Mr. Tyrone Davis. legend from Mississippi’s Second Congres- standing Achievement Award from the Amer- Tyrone Davis was born as Tyrone Fettson sional District. ican Institute of Fishery Research Biologists on May 4, 1938, in Greenville, Mississippi. and in 2008 he was recognized by The Stand- Through his blues career, he was first known f ard-Times as the ‘‘South Coast Man of the as Tyrone the Wonder Boy, then later as Ty- rone Davis. HONORING MR. LEONARD JAMES Year.’’ CANTY, JR. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join Tyrone moved with his father to Saginaw, me in congratulating Dr. Rothschild on his re- Michigan, before relocating to Chicago, Illinois ceipt of the 2012 Prince Henry Society Award. in 1959. He then became a valet/chauffeur for HON. BARBARA LEE We thank him for his role in marine sciences blues singer Freddie King. He befriended the OF CALIFORNIA and eagerly anticipate his continued contribu- likes of Bobby ‘‘Blue’’ Bland, Little Milton, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tions to the field. Otis Clay, among others, and began to pursue Tuesday, October 16, 2012 f his own singing career in the clubs on the city’s West and South Sides. While working for Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise TRIBUTE TO REVEREND MICHAEL King, he started singing in local clubs where today to honor the exceptional life of Mr. SNIFFEN he was discovered by record executive/musi- Leonard James Canty, Jr., community stalwart cian Harold Burrage. This became the start of and entrepreneur, co-founder of the 100 Black HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS his career as a blues singer called ‘‘Tyrone Men of the Bay Area, Inc. and founder of the Black Economic Council, BEC. ‘‘Len,’’ as he OF NEW YORK the Wonder Boy’’. was known, was a trailblazing businessman IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES His records for small labels under ‘‘Tyrone the Wonder Boy’’ did not bring him much suc- committed to supporting and promoting Tuesday, October 16, 2012 cess. In 1968, a successful Chicago record minority- and women-owned businesses. Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to producer Carl Davis signed him to a new Known as a hard-working and talented vision- pay tribute to the Reverend Michael Sniffen, a label, Dakar Records, that he was starting as ary, a passionate advocate and a man of man dedicated to serving God, his family, and part of a distribution deal with Atlantic, and great faith, Mr. Canty has left an indelible the community. suggested that he use the stage name Tyrone mark on Bay Area communities. With his Rev. Michael Sniffen was ordained in 2007 Davis. A Texas DJ flipped his first release passing on September 22, 2012, we look to and went to The Church of St. Luke and St. over and started playing the B-side, ‘‘Can I Len Canty’s legacy and the outstanding quality Matthew in 2010 after serving as Assistant Change My Mind.’’ of his life’s work. Rector of St. John’s, Lattingtown, NY. Since Teamed with producer/arranger Willie Hen- Born on April 26, 1945, to Leonard James arriving at The Church of St. Luke and St. derson, who masterminded ‘‘Can I Change My and Elisabeth Canty, Len was part of a large Matthew, Fr. Michael has created a full time Mind’’, Tyrone Davis capitalized on his break- family growing up in Atlanta, Georgia. A U.S. Artist-in-Residence program, opened the through with a string of orchestrated hits that Air Force veteran during the Vietnam War, Mr. church to the community more than ever, ex- emphasized his new, smoother style, and Canty moved to Oakland, CA, upon his honor- panded programs for children, built relation- helped point the way for Chicago soul into a able discharge in 1968. There he met his lov- ships with youth in detention and attracted a new decade. ‘‘Is It Something You’ve Got’’ ing wife and lifelong partner of 42 years, Kyra. growing and diverse congregation. reached the R&B Top Five in 1969, and it was Mr. Canty worked for United Airlines and in As part of linking the church and the neigh- followed in 1970 by the sublime ‘‘Turn Back real estate, until launching his own mortgage borhood, Fr. Michael won a grant of $287,000 the Hands of Time.’’ It was his second R&B brokerage firm, Canty & Associates, in 1984. from the New York City Department of Envi- number one, and also his biggest hit on the Throughout his entrepreneurial success, Mr. ronmental Protection to undertake a major pop charts with a peak at number three. Canty never lost sight of the needs of his green infrastructure project in the churchyard Tyrone Davis hit the R&B Top 40 with community. Among his many career mile- that will help the environment as well as cre- steady regularity over the next few years, in- stones, he was a founding member in 1988 ate a new public greenspace on the block. In cluding the Top Tens . ‘‘Could I Forget You,’’ and an eventual President of the 100 Black 2011 NYC chose The Church of St. Luke and ‘‘I Had It All the Time,’’ ‘‘Without You in My Men of the Bay Area, Inc. A tireless champion St. Matthew to launch ChangeByUs—a pro- Life,’’ and ‘‘There It Is.’’ In 1975, he scored his for African American equality and opportunity, gram linking neighbors together to build a bet- third number one R&B hit with ‘‘Turning he was Chairman of the 1993 African Amer- ter city. Point,’’ but left Dakar for Columbia the fol- ican Economic Empowerment Conference and Fr. Michael holds a B.A. from W.V. Wes- lowing year. a lecturer in the African American Entrepre- leyan College and a Master of Divinity degree Tyrone Davis’ ballad mastery was a main neurship program at California State Univer- from Drew University. He is a candidate for a selling point for Columbia, which made his sity, East Bay. In the early 1990s, he founded Ph.D. in Homiletics and Liturgical Studies. A backing orchestrations even lusher than be- a private equity venture capital fund for small, member of the American Academy of Religion, fore, but he also made the occasional conces- minority- and women-owned businesses. And, a visiting member of the Academy of Homi- sion to contemporary dance trends, which in- in 2005, after a decade of investment banking, letics and the North American Academy of Lit- formed his debut Columbia hit ‘‘Give It Up’’ a he founded the Black Economic Council, a na- urgy, Fr. Michael has won awards in Pulpit number two R&B single from 1976. Further tional 501(c)(3) headquartered in Northern Oratory and Manner, as well as pastoral lead- successes followed in ‘‘This I Swear’’ (1977), California. ership and innovative ministry. For the 2011/ ‘‘Get On Up’’ (1978), and the slinky ballad ‘‘In Today, the BEC celebrates its Second An- 12 academic year he was a Luce Fellow of the Mood’’ (1979). Tyrone Davis recorded his nual Game Changers and Bridge Builders the Center for Christianity in Global Contexts. final album for Columbia in 1981, then Awards in tribute to its founder, Len Canty, He is currently Secretary of the board of Epis- switched to Highrise, where he promptly land- who epitomized the qualities of positive copal Response to AIDS. ed a Top Five R&B hit—his last, as it turned change and collaboration. As an organization Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the out—with ‘‘Are You Serious’’ in 1982. Short facilitating local business development, eco- Reverend Michael Sniffen for his commitment stints with Ocean-Front and Prelude followed nomic sustainability and job creation to ad- to economic and social justice in Brooklyn and before Tyrone Davis settled in with Future for vance the economic platform of Black Ameri- beyond. the latter half of the 1980s. He spent the first cans and underserved communities, BEC is a Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join half of the 1990s on retro-soul label Ichiban, leading advocate in promoting the equity and me in recognizing the Reverend Michael recording several albums, and then moved to self-sufficiency of Black communities through Sniffen. Southern soul imprint Malaco in 1996 for an stronger economic infrastructure.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K16OC8.003 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS October 16, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1703 Len Canty’s tireless work to open access to the university again saw dramatic success— ‘‘We’re not always going to have the in- intellectual and economic capital for commu- almost 95% of their eligible freshman were credible excitement among 18- to 22–year- nities of color stretched to many fields. He fre- registered as of the first day of classes, and olds that you did in 2008, so I think it’s an quently traveled to Washington, DC, to fight out-of-state students had the tools to make obligation,’’ said Morton Schapiro, the presi- dent of Northwestern. ‘‘We’re supposed to for initiatives and spoke extensively about fi- sure their vote was not denied due to new teach citizenship.’’ nancial fitness, health disparities, supply diver- state regulations. sity issues, regulatory bodies and equal ac- After the enormous success seen on its Northwestern, just north of Chicago, began cess to federal and corporate contracts. His campus, Northwestern University expanded its a drive to register voters last year, with in- project and created the UVote Project. The coming students signing up when they numerous accolades included, most recently, picked up their campus IDs. University- the 2012 ‘‘Spotlight Award’’ from the Bay Area UVote Project shares these proven registration trained staff and volunteers provided absen- Business Roundtable. techniques to campuses across the nation— tee ballot request forms from all 50 states, On a personal note, Len was a longtime providing consistent and streamlined registra- scanned students’ driver’s licenses or other friend and supporter. His ‘‘tough love’’ was a tion efforts so that students get the support identification, and offered to mail in the pa- constant source of inspiration. Our conversa- they need to participate in the democratic perwork. tions were deep and authentic. He was truly a process. According to the project’s web page, By the first day of class, 89 percent of the visionary and a magnificent leader who always schools who adopt these methods typically university’s freshmen had been registered to kept his ‘‘eyes on the prize.’’ Moreover, Mr. see their student voter registration rates dou- vote, in 37 states. Northwestern repeated the Canty was a church Deacon and a man of ble or triple. effort this year, registering almost 95 per- deep compassion. He demonstrated a These recent efforts by Northwestern Uni- cent of eligible freshmen, and expanded the strength and commitment to both his imme- versity and their UVote Project are the type of model to eight other colleges. Stanford Uni- diate family and the extended family that he collaboration between students and institutions versity used the method around campus, in- created within our community. of higher learning that I envisioned when I in- cluding on its bicycle registration line, net- Today, California’s 9th Congressional Dis- troduced the Student VOTER Act, a bill that ting more than 700 new voters in two weeks. trict salutes and honors an outstanding indi- would make institutions of higher learning play Roughly 11 million eligible voters ages 18 vidual and inspiring community leader, Mr. a key role in voter registration efforts. The to 24 are in college, about a quarter of all eli- Leonard James Canty, Jr. He was a dear contents of this bill have been incorporated gible young voters, according to the Center for Information and Research on Civic friend, a respected colleague and mentor, and into H.R. 5799, the Voter Empowerment Act of Learning and Engagement at Tufts Univer- a beloved husband, father, son, grandfather, 2012. The Voter Empowerment Act modern- sity. brother and uncle who will be deeply missed izes and overhauls our voter registration sys- by an extended group of loved ones. I offer tem to assure that as many people are in- The federal Higher Education Amendments volved in our democratic process as possible, of 1998 require colleges to make a ‘‘good faith my sincerest condolences to Len’s surviving effort’’ to distribute registration materials family and to the many friends and associates and I urge my colleagues to support it. to transient students, who have the option to whose lives he touched over the course of his I congratulate Northwestern President Morty establish residency in their home commu- incredible life. The Bay Area and the nation Shapiro and hope other universities will follow nity or where they go to school. his lead. Together, through policies like those has lost one of its greatest advocates for eco- Students who prefer to vote absentee must nomic justice. May his soul rest in peace. created by Northwestern University and first traverse an array of varied rules. Some f through legislation such as the Voter Em- states, like Michigan and Tennessee, make powerment Act of 2012, we can encourage in- voters who register by mail cast a ballot in SUPPORT FOR VOTER EDUCATION creased engagement and participation, includ- person for their first election. North Caro- EFFORTS BY NORTHWESTERN ing among student voters. lina requires that ballot requests be hand- UNIVERSITY [From the New York Times, Oct. 13, 2012] written. Other states, like Delaware and Wy- COLLEGES TAKE A LEAP INTO VOTER oming, require a notary. HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY REGISTRATION Complicating matters more this election OF ILLINOIS (By Steven Yaccino) have been partisan fights over restrictions IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES EVANSTON, IL.—Every four years, volun- on registration drives and new laws requir- teers swarm university campuses, clipboards ing state-issued IDs for voting, though many Tuesday, October 16, 2012 in hand, to register newly eligible voters for have been overturned or blocked this year. Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise what is generally the only presidential elec- Harvard University, which holds a com- today to express my thanks and support for tion of their undergraduate careers. This petition among dormitories to register the recent actions by Northwestern University to year they found large numbers were already most voters, is one of a growing number of help students register to vote and navigate in- registered. schools expanding efforts by purchasing ac- Dozens of colleges have begun their own cess to the Web site of TurboVote, a non- creasingly complex and strict voter registration voting registration drives in orientation pro- procedures nationwide. Their efforts were profit effort that provides complete online grams, class registration, intranet Web sites registration and automated vote-bymail chronicled in an article by the New York Times and other interactions crucial to campus services. this past Sunday, and I hope that my col- life, institutionalizing services that had leagues will pay attention to the story and its often been left to outside efforts. As a result, Founded in 2010, TurboVote is working lessons. thousands of students registered to vote, up- with 58 colleges this year. It now helps more dated their addresses or requested absentee than 100,000 individuals get absentee ballots, Today, roughly 11 million college students find voting locations and track coming elec- are eligible to vote. Unfortunately, states ballots from their home states within days of arriving to campus this fall, officials at sev- tions, sending out text reminders for impor- across the country have considered or passed eral universities said. tant deadlines. legislative initiatives that erect barriers to stu- University-sponsored attempts to make ‘‘We single-handedly registered more peo- dent voting. Northwestern University, which I voting easier for students are being tested in ple in a couple of hours than several organi- am proud to represent, rose to the challenge at least 60 colleges across the country amid zations that have been doing this for and adopted a series of policies to ensure that the outbreak of battles over new voting laws. months,’’ said Shelby Taylor, a spokes- its student body could go to the polls. When ‘‘The voter registration process has be- woman for the University of Florida, which incoming freshman picked up their student come more cumbersome and difficult as promoted TurboVote on the college’s there’s been a competition to define who is IDs, they were given the opportunity to reg- intranet home page and in an e-mail from eligible to vote,’’ said Dan A. Lewis, director the university’s president. The school, which ister to vote. Volunteers took time out of their of Northwestern University’s Center for day to make sure that out-of-state students registered more than 3,000 students this Civic Engagement, which started incor- year, also flashed ads for TurboVote on the porating voter registration into its freshman were given absentee request forms, and any football stadium’s GatorVision screen during orientation last year. ‘‘You almost have to assistance they required so that their vote the opening home game last month. would count when they engaged in their civic have a Ph.D. now to figure out how to do it duty. if you’re not sitting in the same house for ‘‘We alone cannot do this,’’ said Heather the past 20 years.’’ Smith, president of Rock the Vote, which As last weekend’s article noted, North- Northwestern officials who developed the has been registering voters on campuses for western University’s initiatives were wildly suc- new program, UVote Project, said their in- two decades. ‘‘If we could get every univer- cessful. Last year, 89% of incoming North- tent was not to critique voting rules across sity engaged and invested in the work of ask- western freshmen were registered to vote in the country, but to help students navigate ing every one of their students to register to 37 states by the first day of class. This year, them more easily. vote, we’d have a very different democracy.’’

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16OC8.013 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1704 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 16, 2012 RECOGNIZING MRS. DORIS STEEN mussen Lumber Company, now known as the California and the Bay Area, Ambassador Ste- IVY FOR HER COMMITMENT TO Sierra Pacific Industries, in Chinese Camp on vens tragically lost his life in the greatest serv- EDUCATION September 12, 1965, and retired on June 28, ice to this country—selflessly and coura- 2012. Beth and Barney have three sons: Ste- geously representing American values in a for- HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON phen, Harold Jr. (Chip) and wife Debbie, and eign nation he knew intimately and cared for deeply. OF MISSISSIPPI Rick and wife Sheila. Stephen and Rick both Born in 1960 in Grass Valley, California, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES enlisted in the Marines and each served eight years. Ambassador Stevens made a mark early in Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Beth’s first passion is her family and home, life as a student at Piedmont High School, Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- then her family of veterans. She served as the where he participated with enthusiasm in aca- er, I rise today Mrs. Doris Steen Ivy. Mrs. Ivy Secretary of the California Association of demics, the performing arts, and tennis. His has proven to be a woman of tenacity, dedica- County Veterans Service Officers from 1992 education in the 9th Congressional District tion, and compassion. until 2012. She also served as the Secretary continued upon his admission to the University She is a resident of Rolling Fork, Mis- of the National Association of County Veterans of California, Berkeley. As a History major, he sissippi, but was raised in the town of An- Service Officers from 2006 to 2012. delved into studies of the Near East and be- guilla. In 1972, Mrs. Ivy obtained her Bach- Over the years, Beth’s name has become came a member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fra- elors of English degree from Mississippi Valley synonymous with Veterans Services. Before ternity. Later, he earned a law degree from State University and later received her Mas- most of us had even entered public service, another Bay Area institution, UC Hastings Col- ter’s of Science from Jackson State University Beth had gained a reputation for her vast ex- lege of the Law in San Francisco. His subse- in 1979. perience helping veterans and their families quent work in international trade law preceded After graduating from Jackson State Univer- apply for and obtain their benefits. Her devo- the takeoff of his diplomatic career in 1991. Ambassador Stevens’ passion for foreign sity, Doris began teaching English for the tion to veterans is not only professional, but service began early, starting with his high South Delta School District in Rolling Fork, personal. Many of her family members have school participation in an AFS Intercultural Mississippi, where she served as a Depart- served in the military, so it is not surprising Program in Spain and blossoming during his ment Chair. that working with veterans has become her years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco. From 1992–1993, Mrs. Ivy taught English life’s work. The diverse and instrumental positions he held Composition I and II as an adjunct professor The work that Beth has chosen to do makes as a member of the U.S. Foreign Service in at Mary Holmes Junior College in West Point, significant differences for our veterans—from Israel, Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Libya and Mississippi, and served as a Mississippi applying for financial compensation, to ensur- Washington, D.C., among others, helped to Teacher’s Accountability Instrument Evaluator. ing veterans receive appropriate medical care, build his deep and personal understanding of Doris served as an ACT protector for twenty- to helping their dependents with health insur- the Middle and Near East. two years and Drug-Free and Safety facilitator ance and college tuition. She has filed claims A fluent Arabic speaker, Stevens was se- for South Delta High School for fourteen years and advised veterans from the Spanish-Amer- lected by President Obama to be the U.S. as well as advisor for the South Delta High ican War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Special Representative to the National Transi- School peer counseling program. This pro- Storm, Beirut, Grenada, Panama, Iraq and Af- tional Council in Libya, undertaking the com- gram was able to provide food and inspira- ghanistan. These benefits also help our com- plicated task of creating connections with in- tional services to members of the elderly com- munity. Between 2009 and 2010, over one surgents and tribal groups on behalf of the munity in Rolling Fork. In 2011, Mrs. Ivy million dollars in new one-time benefits were United States. As the Qaddafi regime crum- furthered her commitment to literacy by be- obtained. bled, Ambassador Stevens worked passion- coming certified as a Library Media Specialist. Beth has numerous accreditations and affili- ately towards establishing a nascent Libyan She is the wife of Mr. Sammie Ivy; to their ations with the following agencies: Accredita- democracy. In the process, he created innu- union they have two children, Stephanie and tions with American Legion; California Depart- merable personal friendships and professional Steven. Mrs. Ivy is a faithful member of Chap- ment of Veteran Affairs; Disabled American relationships with Libyans—not only with offi- el of the Cross Church, where she has served Veterans; National Association of County Vet- cials and diplomats, but with everyday people. as secretary for over thirty years. eran Service Officers; California Association of In his diplomatic capacity, Ambassador Ste- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join us County Veteran Service Officers; Veterans of vens brought a profound and prolific knowl- in recognizing Mrs. Doris Steen Ivy for her un- Foreign Wars; American Veterans; Military edge of the Arab world to his assignment. His wavering commitment to serving as a role Order of the Purple Heart; Retired Enlisted As- exemplary gift for making personal connec- model and educator for the children of the sociation; World War I of USA; Vietnam Vet- tions was invaluable in his role as Special South Delta School District. erans of America; Jewish War Veterans; and Representative and, later, Ambassador, to one f Catholic War Veterans. of the most complex and challenging regions To quote Beth: ‘‘This is more than a job; it’s of the world. Therefore, as we join in recog- HONORING ELIZABETH ‘‘BETH’’ a life.’’ nizing Ambassador Stevens amidst a sober BARNES Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and outpouring of praise from his family, col- commending Beth Barnes, Tuolumne County leagues, fellow Americans, and the leaders of HON. JEFF DENHAM Senior Veterans Representative, for her many this nation, we remember that Chris Stevens OF CALIFORNIA years of selfless service to our veterans and was beloved by many Libyans, as well. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the betterment of our community. In remembering Ambassador Stevens, we Tuesday, October 16, 2012 f also honor the three other Americans who bravely sacrificed their lives alongside him: Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to IN MEMORY OF UNITED STATES Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen acknowledge and honor Elizabeth ‘‘Beth’’ AMBASSADOR TO LIBYA JOHN Doherty. The mournful loss of these members Barnes, Tuolumne County Senior Veterans CHRISTOPHER STEVENS of the Foreign Service will not be forgotten. Services Representative, who will retire in De- We pay tribute to all of them today and keep cember 2012, after 35 years of outstanding HON. BARBARA LEE their families in our thoughts. We also express service to our veterans. OF CALIFORNIA our deepest sympathy and condolences to Elizabeth ‘‘Beth’’ Barnes was born October IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ambassador Stevens’ family, to whom he was 2, 1945, in San Andreas, California. Beth a devoted son, brother and stepson who al- Tuesday, October 16, 2012 moved to Tuolumne County in 1967 and went ways made time for visits home despite the in- to work at Brown’s Drive Inn in 1972. On June Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise credible demands of his diplomatic missions. 1, 1977, she was hired on as a Housekeeper today with my Northern California colleagues Therefore, on behalf of the residents of Cali- at Tuolumne General Hospital. On June 5, GEORGE MILLER, JACKIE SPEIER, ZOE LOFGREN, fornia’s 1st, 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 1982, she was promoted to a clerk typist in MIKE THOMPSON, LYNN WOOLSEY, ANNA 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, and 17th Congressional the Veterans Office. Beth was then promoted ESHOO, DORIS MATSUI, PETE STARK, JOHN Districts, we join President Barack Obama, to Senior Veterans Services Representative GARAMENDI, JERRY MCNERNEY, MIKE HONDA, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, on November 5, 2000. and SAM FARR of California, to honor, cele- Democratic Leader NANCY PELOSI and an ex- Beth married Harold ‘‘Barney’’ Barnes on brate, and remember Ambassador John Chris- pansive global network of supporters in salut- March 26, 1965. Barney went to work for Ras- topher ‘‘Chris’’ Stevens. A son of Northern ing Ambassador John Christopher Stevens.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16OC8.015 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS October 16, 2012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1705 Ambassador Chris Stevens will be remem- endary Blues Band to concentrate on solo people through his non-profit, Operation bered for his strong sense of dignity, his hu- work. Within two years, he had cut his first do- HOPE Helping Other People Endure. mility, and his generous service to others. He mestic record as a frontman and pursued an Selfless doesn’t even begin to describe will be truly missed by all who loved him and ambitious tour schedule. He was featured on Angel Gomez. by all he served through the magnitude of his several nationally syndicated news and music Many lives have been touched by Angel, an life’s work. programs, and appeared in numerous movie appropriate name for a man with a heart the f productions and TV and radio ads. size of Texas. The great irony of Pinetop’s career is that A native of El Paso, Texas, he attended HONORING MR. JOE WILLIE he didn’t blossom as a headliner until his Bowie High School and later joined the United ‘‘PINETOP’’ PERKINS eighth decade on the blues scene—a phe- States Navy. He is a proud Bowie Bear Alum- nomenon that resulted in the release of 15 ni and Veteran. HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON solo records in 15 years, beginning in 1992. His real passion, other than serving his OF MISSISSIPPI On his 1998 release, ‘‘Legends,’’ Pinetop col- county in uniform, has always been helping IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES laborated with master blues guitarist Hubert others in need. Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Sumlin. Together, they blended the traditional In 1995 he began volunteering his time to Delta blues sound with modern electric blues the community, with the support of his wife Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- rock, showcasing the spirit and energy of the Patricia, daughter Rubi and other family mem- er, I rise today to honor one of the best blues music. ‘‘Born in the Delta’’ and ‘‘Legends’’ bers. pianists known, Mr. Joe Willie ‘‘Pinetop’’ Per- were both nominated for Grammy Awards—in Seeing the growing need around him he co- kins. 1997 and 2000 respectively. This was followed founded Operation HOPE in 2009, and he has Pinetop was born Joe Willie Perkins in by a 2005 Grammy nomination for ‘‘Ladies invested even more time and resources to Belzoni, Mississippi, on July 7, 1913. Pinetop Man,’’ released by MC Records. That same help the El Paso Community he loves so dropped out of school after the third grade. He year, he was also presented with a lifetime much. taught himself the rudiments of blues guitar on achievement award at the Grammys. Operation HOPE has allowed Angel to a homemade instrument called a diddley bow: Aside from his well-deserved Grammy rec- share his vision of community outreach with a length of wire stretched between nails driven ognition, Pinetop also received a National Her- thousands of people in need. He works with into a wall. He began entertaining at dances itage Fellowship in 2000 from the National En- community partners and volunteers who share and house parties at age 10 and soon learned dowment for the Arts. He has been featured in the same values and passion for giving, and to play the piano as well. While still in his the documentary ‘‘Piano Blues,’’ directed by these relationships have made it possible to teens he left Mississippi and traveled to Chi- Clint Eastwood for the Martin Scorsese PBS multiply his efforts to improve our community. cago. But he came back to Mississippi and series, ‘‘The Blues.’’ In addition, he continued Over the past seventeen years, El Paso didn’t decide to make Chicago his home until to win the Blues Music Award for best blues residents have received food baskets during the 1950s. piano every year until 2003, when he was re- the holidays, along with blankets, clothing, and He worked primarily in the Mississippi Delta tired from the running and the award was re- medical supplies. Hospitalized children that throughout the 1930s and ’40s, spending three named the Pinetop Perkins Piano Player of were hospitalized have received toys and gift years with Sonny Boy Williamson on the King the Year. baskets to lift their spirits. Hundreds of per- Biscuit Time radio show on KFFA in Helena, In 2007, he was still on the road at 94 years sons with disabilities have received assistance Arkansas. Pinetop also toured extensively with old; Pinetop Perkins’ unique life was chron- with medical supplies, medications, durable slide guitar player Robert Nighthawk. After icled in Peter Carlson’s biographical documen- medical equipment, and accessible ramps. briefly working with B.B. King in Memphis, tary DVD, ‘‘Born in the Honey,’’ which includes And families have received assistance with fu- Pinetop ‘‘barnstormed’’ the South with Earl a live CD with a rare studio outtake track. neral expenses and spiritual support during Hooker during the early ’50s. The pair com- ‘‘Pinetop Perkins and Friends’’ released on their time of need. pleted a session for Sam Phillips’ famous Sun Telarc, an independent classical recording To others, the donated items and arrange- Records in 1953. It was at this session that he company that crosses over to include blues ments made may not seem like much, but be- recorded his version of ‘‘Pinetop’s Boogie and even jazz music. In that release by Telarc hind each action is something intangible, Woogie,’’ a song originally written and re- in the summer of 2008, Pinetop was posi- something money can’t buy: hope. corded by pianist Clarence ‘‘Pinetop’’ Smith— tioned in the midst of several high-profile On behalf of the El Paso community, I the influential blues pianist who died from a guests—all of whom have been influenced by would like to thank Angel Gomez for all he gunshot wound at age 24 in 1929. Willie Per- his music in some way or another over the has done for those in need and for the posi- kins was already being referred to as ‘‘Pine- past several decades. Included on Pinetop’s tive impact he continues to have in our com- top’’ when he played on King Biscuit in the list of Friends were such luminaries as Eric munity. ’40s, but it was his sensational version of this Clapton, B.B. King and Jimmy Vaughan. f song that secured him the lifelong nickname of His latest recording is ‘‘Joined at the Hip,’’ A TRIBUTE TO MR. AND MRS. ‘‘Pinetop.’’ a collaborative project with Willie ‘‘Big Eyes’’ TONY AND MARY CARDOSO Pinetop Perkins started out playing guitar Smith, released in June 2010. Pinetop also re- and piano at house parties and honky-tonks. ceived a Grammy in 2010 for this collaborative In the 1940s, he had to drop the guitar due to project with Willie ‘‘Big Eyes’’ Smith for Best HON. JIM COSTA an encounter with an outraged chorus girl in a Traditional Blues CD. OF CALIFORNIA Helena, Arkansas, nightspot when she knifed Pinetop passed away on March 21, 2011, at IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES him, leaving him with severed tendons in his the age of 97. When he passed away, he still Tuesday, October 16, 2012 left arm. That dashed his guitar aspirations, had performances lined up for the year. but Pinetop came back strong from the injury, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to concentrating solely on piano from that point in recognizing Mr. Joseph Willie ‘‘Pinetop’’ celebrate the 90th birthdays and 60th wedding on. Perkins, a great blues legend from Mis- anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Tony and Mary Pinetop is known for holding down the piano sissippi’s Second Congressional District. Cardoso. The life that Tony and Mary have built together over the past sixty years is an chair in the great Muddy Waters Band for f twelve years during the pinnacle of Muddy’s inspiration to all of us. Their story is reflective career. Replacing Otis Spann in 1969, Pinetop IN RECOGNITION OF ANGEL of the American Dream, working hard to cre- helped shape the Waters sound and anchored GOMEZ ate better lives for themselves and their chil- Muddy’s memorable combo throughout the dren. ’70s with his brilliant piano solos. In 1980, HON. SILVESTRE REYES Anthony Bernard Cardoso was born in Pinetop and other members of Muddy’s crew OF TEXAS Lemoore, California, on October 16, 1922. struck out on their own and formed the Leg- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES When Tony was 20 years old, he enlisted in endary Blues Band—a group that recorded the United States Marine Corps during the two records for Rounder and toured exten- Tuesday, October 16, 2012 height of World War II. He proudly served our sively, culling several Grammy nominations. Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to country for six years, spending time overseas After being labeled a sideman for most of recognize Angel Gomez for selfless service to on the Marshall Islands and Hawaiian Islands his career, Pinetop eventually left the Leg- our community. He has helped thousands of as an aviation mechanic. Tony was honorably

VerDate Mar 15 2010 01:27 Oct 17, 2012 Jkt 029060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A16OC8.017 E16OCPT1 smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1706 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 16, 2012 discharged from the Marines in 1948 as a Monticello High School in 1989. She then at- Services from Brookdale Community College, Staff Sergeant. Upon his return home, he went tended and graduated Magna Cum Laude which helped her to excel at her work at into the dairy business with his brothers. from Alcorn State University with a Bachelor of Checkmate Fort Monmouth Homeless Shelter Mary Dorothy Couto was born in Kerman, Science Degree in Elementary Education. in Oceanport, New Jersey. California, on October 18, 1922. In the 7th While at Alcorn, she also joined Zeta Phi Beta After teaching briefly at the primary edu- grade, Mary was pulled out of school, so she Sorority, Inc. She later graduated from the cation level, Ms. D’Averso went on to teach at could contribute all of her time and energy into University of Mississippi with a Master of Edu- Brookdale Community College at Long Branch the family farm. In 1944, Mary bravely joined cation Degree in K–12 Educational leadership. in 1981. Combining her educational studies in the Navy where she served our country for Ms. McCord began her career as an educa- Spanish and teaching, Ms. D’Averso taught two years. In 1946 she returned home; a few tor in the Vicksburg-Warren School District, English as a Second Language, GED studies years later, she met Tony at a local dairy. teaching fifth grade. She later relocated to in Spanish and Citizenship Studies. Her com- Tony and Mary were married on October East Tallahatchie School District and served mitment to helping others through her various 18, 1952. In the early years of their marriage, as a teacher of first and second grade stu- positions is admirable, and the impact she has Tony and Mary owned a dairy farm. The farm dents and eventually the assistant principal. had on the Brookdale Community College was sold in 1959, and they opened a liquor The desire for professional growth then led community is immeasurable. store in Biola, California. Over the years, they her to West Tallahatchie School District where experienced great success and had the oppor- she served as Assistant Principal of R.H. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratu- tunity to expand their store, which was aptly Bearden Elementary School for three years lating Nancy Lynn Ann D’Averso on her retire- named the Biola Variety Liquor Store. Tony and later became the Principal. After serving ment. Her commitment to the Brookdale Com- and Mary were proud owners of the store for as the Principal at R.H. Bearden, she became munity College at Long Branch community is over 20 years. They worked long hours and the Principal at West Tallahatchie High School truly deserving of this body’s recognition. were open seven days a week. for two years. Currently, she is the Director of In the past six decades they owned and op- Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment for f erated three businesses, raised their children, the West Tallahatchie School District. Antoinette and Charles, remained active in the Ms. McCord has been an asset to the West HONORING THE CHRISTIAN community, and have acted as loving and car- Tallahatchie School District because of the re- HARMONIZERS ing grandparents and great grandparents. lationships she has developed with local Clearly, their marriage not only reflects a part- stakeholders and throughout Tallahatchie nership filled with deep affection and love, but County serving in various capacities in both HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON also one that enjoys the intelligence of two West Tallahatchie School District and East OF MISSISSIPPI business savvy people. Tallahatchie School District. She has been in- Tony joined the Biola Chamber of Com- volved in initiatives and partnerships that have IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES merce in 1959, and was a past president in been critical to meeting the educational needs Tuesday, October 16, 2012 1963. He was a past commander of the Biola of school-age children in surrounding commu- VFW Post. Tony is extremely proud of a vet- nities. These partnerships include collaborative Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- erans’ memorial that was put up near an ele- professional development sessions between er, I rise today to honor a gospel singing mentary school in Biola. He believes it is a elementary school teachers and Head Start group, The Christian Harmonizers. They were perfect location because children can walk by teachers. As a result of this collaboration, organized in the late 1980s by Jerome Wil- and better understand the sacrifices men and more students are entering kindergarten ready liams along with Bobby Bailey and Ellison women make to serve our country. Tony is to learn at the necessary academic level. Ad- Brown. also a member of the Biola American Legion ditionally, she was instrumental in securing the The group began to grow over the years, Post and the Kerman American Legion Post. district in-house GED Option Program which adding such singers as Thomas Murray, Larry He has proudly served as Grand Marshal at assists students who have academic defi- Thompson, Jerry Davis, Ronnie Polk, Calvin the Biola Raisin Day Parade. ciencies in meeting the requirements nec- Harris, Frank McGriggs, Jr., Xavier Hampton, The Cardosos retired in 1979. They stay essary for obtaining their general education di- Frank Curtis, Maurice Buck, and the late Sher- busy by working in their vegetable garden, ploma. man King, Sr., who sang with the group for being involved in the community, and spend- f ing time with family. Having a cohesive and over 22 years, and Antoine Eakins, who sang close-knit family is very important to Tony and IN RECOGNITION OF NANCY LYNN with them for over 17 years. The current mem- Mary. As a grandmother, Mary made it a point ANN D’AVERSO bers of the group are Elder Frank Curtis, Elder to bring all of her grandchildren together Antoine Eakins, Bobby Bailey, and of course, whenever possible, so all the cousins would HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. the founder and organizer, Jerome Williams. In the earlier years, the late Walter Griffin and have close relationships. Mary and Tony truly OF NEW JERSEY the late Robert Moore served as the group’s understand what is important in life. On a per- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES teachers and advisors. sonal note, Mary and Tony have served as ex- Tuesday, October 16, 2012 ceptional role models for me—their nephew. In 1988, the Christian Harmonizers recorded Their work ethic and commitment to service Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to popular songs such as ‘‘Consideration’’ and allowed me to witness first-hand the best of recognize Nancy Lynn Ann D’Averso on her ‘‘Don’t Doubt the Lord’’ which were penned by what our nation has to offer and encouraged retirement from Brookdale Community College Jerome Williams. Their current album is ‘‘30 me to do the same. at Long Branch, New Jersey. Ms. D’Averso Years Live’’ which is comprised of 10 songs Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me dedicated over 31 years to Brookdale Commu- and features two of Williams’ originals: ‘‘Some- congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Tony and Mary nity College, and her many achievements day’’ and ‘‘Grateful.’’ The remaining tracks of Cardoso for their 60 years of commitment to should be celebrated. the album were rearranged by Jerome Wil- one another and for their long lives that exem- Nancy Lynn D’Averso’s commitment to edu- liams. cation is not only evident in her years as a plify the genuine meaning of hard work and The Harmonizers are known worldwide for dedication. teacher, but also in her many personal aca- demic achievements. A graduate of Long their performances and have shared the stage f Branch High School, Ms. D’Averso went on to with such great gospel artists as: Lucille Polk HONORING EDDIE MCCORD earn a ‘‘Certificate of Culture’’ from the Univer- & Pearly Gates, the Jackson Southernaires, sity of Madrid, Spain as well as a Bachelor’s The Angelic Gospel Singers, The Swanee HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of Arts Degree in Spanish and a Grade 7–12 Quintet, the Sensational Nightingales, Debra Teaching Certificate from Montclair State Col- Snipes, Ronica & The Blazing Stars, The OF MISSISSIPPI Mighty Clouds of Joy, Willie Banks & The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lege. After 6 years of teaching at Memorial School in Eatontown, New Jersey, Ms. Messengers, the Canton Spirituals, and Gold Tuesday, October 16, 2012 D’Averso continued her studies at Montclair City. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Ms. Eddie State College, graduating with a Master’s of Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me M. (Thompson) McCord was born in Lake Arts Degree in Spanish Literature. She later in honoring The Christian Harmonizers, a Mis- Providence, Louisiana. She graduated from also received an Associate Degree in Human sissippi gospel singing group.

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