[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1235]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY AND LIFE OF CON CASSIDY, DEDICATED COMMUNITY 
                                 LEADER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. CURT WELDON

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 21, 2006

  Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, there are few among us who 
have given more of themselves to making the world a better place than 
Con Cassidy, who passed away last year on September 24, 2005. As we 
continue to mourn the passing of our dear friend Con, I want to take a 
few moments to remember his life and his work in the community he 
served so faithfully in so many different ways.
  One of Con's greatest pleasures during his lifetime was helping those 
in need. He leaves behind an impressive list of accomplishments that 
most people can only dream of achieving in their lifetime. Con will be 
remembered for many reasons, not the least of which is his 
inspirational leadership that has had a profound effect on people 
trying to better their lives. Even with all of his work in public 
service and with community organizations, Con also endeared himself to 
many because of his generous spirit and wise counsel. Whether it was a 
local concern or just a relaxed visit with an old friend, Con's friends 
always knew they would find the support and guidance they were looking 
for in a chat with Con. While in his presence, you were immediately put 
at ease with his warm smile, his firm handshake, his reassuring voice 
and his admirable character.
  We have all felt his loss in one way or another, however those 
individuals that have special needs due to unforeseen circumstances or 
serious illness are the ones that will suffer most from the loss of 
their friend, Con. Anyone who knew Con knew that he was a person who 
spent countless hours volunteering his time and energy to benefit 
individuals and organizations in need.
  The Con Cassidy Foundation has been established by a group of his 
friends and family in his honor with the hope of continuing his 
tradition of giving. The ``Make a Wish Foundation'' will be the primary 
benefactor of proceeds raised and will be given in Con Cassidy's name. 
Con's legacy and his tradition of giving will endure in the wonderful 
work being done by the Foundation established in his honor.
  Mr. Speaker, as the Con Cassidy Foundation gathers to honor his 
memory and life on June 22--the anniversary of his birthday--I ask my 
colleagues to join me in tribute for all he has done to strengthen our 
community and better the lives of others. Con Cassidy's life is truly 
an eloquent statement about what one committed citizen can do.

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