[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 66 (Tuesday, May 15, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E800]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            MEMORIALIZING MARY BIANCHINI'S LIFE AND SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 15, 2001

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and remember the 
life and service of my dear friend and tireless advocate, Mary 
Bianchini of Nyack, NY.
  Throughout her life, Mary Bianchini has not only served her family 
and friends, but our communities with her unwavering kindness and 
commitment. She devoted a lifetime to service to others--as a nurse, as 
a media personality, and as a linchpin in numerous charitable 
endeavors. It is therefore appropriate that we reflect upon Mary's many 
significant accomplishments and as a dear friend to so many of us that 
we pause and express our love to her which she has showered upon us all 
these many years.
  A cover story in the January-February 1987 issue of ``Geriatric 
Nursing'' recounted how Mary emigrated to the United States from Italy 
with her family at a young age. In 1929, she married the man her 
parents had chosen for her even before that union found a firm 
foundation in love. In fact, Mary remained married until her husband's 
untimely death in the late 1950's, nearly 30 years after their 
nuptials.
  Mary was a devoted housewife and mother, but as happened with all too 
many Americans at that time, the Great Depression threw a wrench into 
her plans. Forced to find employment in a shoe factory, Mary had to 
seek new employment when that establishment burned down and upon 
applying to become a telephone operator at the Rockland State Hospital, 
she was told there were no vacancies, but would be hired if she would 
help out in patient care. From that experience on, Mary was dedicated 
to helping others.
  Mary demonstrated a natural skill in caring for the ill. She became a 
licensed practical nurse in 1938, and soon earned a reputation 
statewide for her compassion, skill, common sense, and her advocacy for 
nurses.
  Mary served as an officer in the New York State Practical Nurses 
Association from 1948 until 1962. In those positions, her reputation as 
a feisty defender of the underdog was assured. In the 1960's, Mary 
embarked on a completely new career as host of her own radio, and cable 
television programs. Soon, the movers and shakers in all aspects of 
society were seeking to be interviewed by this remarkable woman, not 
quite five feet high. Her popular broadcast interviews continued until 
well into the 1980's.
  Mary, who was often referred to as ``Rockland's First Lady,'' 
received many awards and recognition, including the American Heart 
Association ``Queen of Hearts'' in 1985, being cited by Governor Mario 
Cuomo for her service to our State, and as a strong supporter of my 
Congressional Citizens Advisory Committee on Drugs.
  Perhaps Mary's greatest pride was in her own family. Her son, Dr. 
Valentino Bianchini, is a respected member of the medical profession, 
who has raised his own family following Mary's lifetime goals.
  The poet John Dryden (1631-1700), once said, ``So softly death 
succeeded life in her/She did but dream of heaven/and she was there.''
  Mary Bianchini will be sorely missed not only by all her family and 
friends, but by the countless people she has helped throughout her 
life. As we mark the passing of Mary `Bee,' our good friend, this 
outstanding citizen, with her gentle heart, we convey our condolences 
and prayers to her family as we reflect upon her lifetime and service 
to us all.

                          ____________________