[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2156]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             A TRIBUTE TO GEORGE MANIAS OF PEORIA, ILLINOIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RAY LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2006

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to George 
Manias, a man who is a legend in my hometown of Peoria, Illinois.
  Yesterday, George Manias celebrated the 60th anniversary of the 
opening of his shoeshine business in Peoria. George Manias is the true 
personification of the American dream. The son of Greek immigrants who 
spoke no English when he came to Peoria, he was just 16 years old when 
he opened his business. From that first day in the corner of a downtown 
barbershop, George has worked tirelessly to make his shop a great 
success.
  George has shined the shoes of countless people, from his fellow 
Peorians to former Presidents Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan. The walls 
of his shop are covered with photos and clippings of the more famous of 
his customers, but each customer is special to George. His pride in his 
workmanship and his love of people are evident no matter who walks 
through his door.
  This week, the Peoria City Council honored George with a resolution 
commemorating his 60th anniversary, and tonight, there is a big 
celebration planned for him. I want to add my congratulations to George 
and his family on reaching this milestone in his career. George Manias 
is truly the pride of Peoria.

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