[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 131 (Tuesday, October 8, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1791]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




MATTIEBELLE WOODS: THE FIRST LADY OF MILWAUKEE'S BLACK PRESS CELEBRATES 
                           HER 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                         HON. THOMAS M. BARRETT

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 8, 2002

  Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate 
Mattiebelle Woods, a local treasure from Milwaukee, who will turn 100 
years old on October 31.
  For nearly 40 years, Mattiebelle has reported on the major social 
events and gatherings in Milwaukee's African-American community, 
building an impressive career and reputation that have earned her the 
title of ``First Lady of Milwaukee's Black Press.''
  Writing for the Milwaukee Defender, the Milwaukee Star, the Milwaukee 
Globe and now with the Milwaukee Courier, Mattiebelle's articles 
continue to take the social pulse of the African-American community in 
our city. Her work has received dozens of awards and accolades, 
including recognition of her journalistic contributions from the 
Milwaukee Press Club.
  In addition to a brilliant career in journalism, Mattiebelle has 
stood as a pillar of strength in our community through her many years 
of service and dedication to making a difference in the lives of the 
people of Milwaukee. She was an original founder of the Wisconsin Black 
Teen Pageant, an event that has unlocked new opportunities for scores 
of young black women in Wisconsin. She remains a dedicated political 
activist, working on campaigns for nearly six decades and helping with 
voter registration efforts. While doing all of this, Mattiebelle 
continues to work in her church.
  Her many accomplishments and contributions have made Mattiebelle a 
source of great inspiration for countless leaders in our community. It 
is a service she is happy to provide. Elected officials, neighborhood 
activists and civic leaders alike all credit Mattiebelle for empowering 
them with the confidence to pursue a life of service to the community, 
and thank her for her words of wisdom that have clarified their own 
personal and professional paths.
  In a recent newspaper article, Mattiebelle described her vitality as 
she begins her second century: ``I get up every day and eat and drink 
what I want. I can't believe I don't have the aches and pains that 
everyone else has. I don't take any medication. I don't have a 
wheelchair or a rocking chair, and I wear heels when I go out. It's 
ironic.''
  With such energy and vigor, Milwaukeeans can look forward to many 
more years of articles and service from our dear Mattiebelle. Mr. 
Speaker, I urge the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in 
saluting Mattiebelle Woods, and sending her best wishes as she begins 
her 101st year.

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