[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 53 (Monday, March 30, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E808-E809]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RON SILVER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARY BONO MACK

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 30, 2009

  Mrs. BONO MACK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of 
Ron Silver and mourn his untimely passing.
  Ron Silver's talent and passion as an artist was evident on the 
screen, television and the stage. He received numerous awards and 
accolades from his peers for his memorable performances and his ability 
to entertain audiences. He cared about his craft and was beloved by the 
people who had the good fortune to work with him.
  It's rare that an individual can successfully navigate through the 
personalities and politics of both Hollywood and Washington, but Ron 
Silver was able to master both and gain the respect of all he touched 
along the way. Ron's good nature and principled patriotism led him to 
be accepted and trusted by Republicans, Democrats and Independents 
alike. He was able to accomplish this because no matter

[[Page E809]]

what side of the issues you were on, Ron did not question one's 
patriotism--he believed that all Americans were united by a common bond 
and love of country--even if they stood on opposite sides of an issue. 
That fact in and of itself says a lot about the man.
  In Washington, Ron Silver understood the importance of taking the 
time to study the issues he championed and to Ron that included taking 
into account all points of view. As a fierce independent, he knew that 
criticism could come from all sides. Ron knew that it was important not 
only to understand the policy and politics but also to respect the 
process and nuances of Washington that too many overlook and, as a 
result, find themselves facing a more difficult and challenging path to 
achieve their goals.
  Ron Silver's abilities were illustrated in his work as a founder of 
the Creative Coalition, a collection of artists and entertainers from 
across the political spectrum who work to educate people about issues 
ranging from arts funding to First Amendment Rights to fighting 
poverty. Ron earned immense respect for his tireless work with the 
Coalition. It wasn't Ron Silver's nature to simply write a column or 
cut a check--although he was able to do both--he simply had too much 
energy and too much of an interest in making the lives of others better 
to limit his advocacy. That was the Ron Silver way--always striving to 
make a difference and contribute to building a stronger and more secure 
America.
  Ron Silver leaves behind a grateful nation and a loving family. Our 
nation would be enriched if more of us exercised the same sense of 
country, level of thoughtfulness and aptly placed priorities as Ron 
Silver. At the top of such order was his family, who graciously shared 
their devoted husband and father with the rest of us. Our condolences 
are with each of you. Please find solace in the memories of the time 
and special moments you shared and the knowledge that your loved one 
was the embodiment of all that Thomas Jefferson valued in his 
countrymen--a citizen who never shied from his responsibilities to make 
his country a better place. He will be sorely missed.
  Thank you Ron Silver.
  May God bless you and grant you peace.

                          ____________________