[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 41 (Friday, March 9, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E515]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO MARTIN RICHARDS IN HONOR OF HIS BIRTHDAY

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                         HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 9, 2007

  Mr. ACKERMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise before this historic chamber of 
the House of Representatives to call to the attention of this Congress 
the profound achievements of Martin Richards as we honor him on his 
birthday this March 11.
  Many here and throughout our nation know of Mr. Richards through his 
extraordinary accomplishments as a theatrical and movie producer, 
having won our nations' highest awards including an Oscar for best 
picture, numerous Tony Awards for his Broadway productions, and a 
Pulitzer Prize.
  Martin Richards has also blessed the lives of so many New Yorkers 
through his vision and leadership on behalf of so many seeking hope and 
opportunity. In 1997, Mayor Giuliani appointed him to a six-year term 
as a member of The Trust for Cultural Resources of the City of New 
York. He was also a member of the Mayor's Advisory Council for Theatre.
  Mr. Richards served on the President's Council for the Gay Men's 
Health Crisis, and is on the Board of Directors of Broadway Cares/
Equity Fights AIDS. In 1994, in memory of his wife, he established the 
Mary Lea Johnson Richards Institute at New York University Medical 
Center for organ transplantation and research, and in 1995, also in 
memory of his wife, he co-founded the Children's Advocacy Center of 
Manhattan, New York City's only non-profit center for abused children. 
For the past eight years he has produced the annual Red Ball, one of 
New York's premiere charitable events, which benefits both the 
Institute and the Advocacy Center.
  Martin Richards' life is a living example of the expression that one 
man can truly make a difference. This boy from the Bronx has brought 
dreams and joy to audiences throughout the world though his work. By 
celebrating Martin Richards' birthday, we take pride in the ideals that 
define the greatness of New York City.
  Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the House of 
Representatives to join me now in honoring Martin Richards for bringing 
joy and hope to the people of New York City and the entire nation.

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