[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 148 (Tuesday, October 21, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2109]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       A TRIBUTE TO DARLENE MEALY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 21, 2003

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Darlene Mealy for her 
commitment to public service and dedication to serving her community.
  Darlene Mealy was one of eight children born to Edward and Louise 
Mealy, in Detroit, MI. She was raised in Brooklyn, NY, and would later 
attend school at Manhattan Borough Community College. While living on 
Herkimer St. in 1987, she formed a softball team named the ``Bullets,'' 
which won three straight championships. Since then, Darlene decided she 
wanted to be in a position where she would be able to give back to the 
community that gave her so much.
  She is the founder and president of FARR (Fulton St./Atlantic Ave./
Ralph./Rochester Ave.) Community Association, Inc. FARR has helped 
forge tighter community bonds and a stronger voice. FARR's successes 
include removing drug dealers from street corners, beautifying the 
neighborhood, and saving eight members' homes from demolition, which 
was planned for by the Fulton Park Urban Renewal Plan. Under her 
leadership, FARR also has been credited with programs for our youth, 
such as boys' and girls' basketball and girls' step teams, which she 
has coached for three years.
  Her community involvement also extends to her service on the 
executive board of the Bishop Henry B. Hucles Episcopal Nursing Home, 
providing an essential service to frail, elderly and physically 
challenged community residents. She is the corresponding secretary for 
the 81st Precinct Community Council and a member of the Christ Memorial 
Church in Brooklyn. She was the former secretary of Unity Democratic 
Club as well. She credits her mother as her role model in learning 
values that she lives by today.
  Professionally, Darlene has worked for the New York City Transit for 
13 years. She now works in the Department of Buses and Technical 
Services. She is on the executive board of Neighborhood Housing 
Services that gives homeowners low and moderate loans to improve their 
homes.
  Mr. Speaker, Darlene Mealy's commitment, leadership, innovation, and 
motivation have brought about a positive change in the neighborhood and 
community she serves diligently. As such, she is more than worthy of 
receiving our recognition. I hope that all of my colleagues will join 
me in honoring this truly remarkable individual.

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