[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 74 (Tuesday, June 1, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E968]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           TRIBUTE TO GLENN CUNNINGHAM A TRUE PUBLIC SERVANT

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                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 1, 2004

  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, it is with sorrow that I inform my colleagues 
of the sudden and untimely passing of Glenn Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham 
was a longtime public servant. He was Mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey, 
a significant part of my congressional district. He also served as a 
member of the New Jersey State Senate. Mayor/State Senator Cunningham 
was the proverbial public servant. His career in the public arena 
spanned more than three decades. He was truly a man of the people.
  Over the years, I had the privilege of working with Glenn on issues 
of shared interest, as our careers paralleled each other's. I was 
delighted when Glenn was elected to his first office as a Hudson County 
Freeholder in 1975, and then watched with pride as he moved forward in 
his career to become elected to the Jersey City Municipal Council in 
1981 and re-elected in 1985 and became President of the Jersey City 
Municipal Council. In 1996, Glen was appointed by President Clinton to 
become the first African American U.S. Marshall from the state of New 
Jersey. In 2001, Glenn was elected the first African American Mayor of 
Jersey City, and last year Mayor Cunningham was elected State Senator 
for the 31st District.
  Glenn was especially proud of his military and law enforcement 
experience, having served with honor as a United States Marine. He also 
was a member of the Jersey City Police Department for more than two 
decades, rising to the rank of Captain. He later distinguished himself 
in the post of Hudson County Director of Public Safety.
  Glenn was also known for his interest in Black History. I enjoyed 
having conversations with hirn about the history of Jersey City, 
Underground Railroad in New Jersey and other significant historical 
events that shaped our state and nation. I was impressed with his 
passion and the breadth of his knowledge of historical subjects.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in remembering a 
life long distinguished native son of Jersey City, Glenn Cunningham, 
who was an outstanding role model. His exemplary service will long be 
remembered. I express my condolences to his survivors, especially his 
wife, Saundra.

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