[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 12 (Tuesday, January 30, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E52]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HARRY WAYNE CASEY'S FIFTIETH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 30, 2001

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Harry 
Wayne Casey of KC & the Sunshine Band on his fiftieth birthday, January 
31, 2001. KC's music has not only enhanced the cultural vibrance of the 
Miami community, but has become an important part of 20th century 
American music.
  During the course of his remarkably successful career, KC has made a 
profound impact on popular music as we appreciate it today. His 
influence helped to shape an entire decade of music; one which has 
continued to excite fans and earn critical acclaim for the past twenty 
years.
  A native of Hialeah, Florida, KC began his career at age 17 when he 
began working at Miami's T.K. Records/Studios. By 1973 he had formed 
the Sunshine Band and embarked upon his meteoric rise to stardom. The 
Band's second album, released in 1975, went triple platinum and third 
album, released in 1977, also went triple platinum. KC & The Sunshine 
Band had amassed an amazing nine Grammy nominations, three Grammy 
Awards, an American Music Award, four number one singles in the span of 
one year, and nine Top 10 singles.
  KC has maintained an active philanthropic presence in South Florida 
where he continues to give back to his community. His many charitable 
acts include the purchase of thousands of Thanksgiving and Christmas 
dinners for poor families in the Miami area and regular guest 
appearances on Radio Y100 in Miami to support child abuse prevention. 
In addition, he performed in a major benefit concert for the victims of 
Hurricane Andrew in 1992.
  I am proud to recognize KC for his outstanding contributions to our 
community and to our nation's rich music history. I join his family and 
friends in honoring him on this very special occasion. My best wishes 
for a wonderful birthday and many more to come.

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