[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 59 (Wednesday, April 22, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E923]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     100TH BIRTHDAY OF GENEVA POOLE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 22, 2009

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor 
that I congratulate Geneva Williamson Poole on a momentous milestone, 
her 100th birthday, which will be on April 16, 2009. Geneva will be 
celebrating this milestone with family and friends on Saturday, April 
18, 2009, at her home in Gary, Indiana. One of Gary's proudest and most 
adored residents for over 63 years, Geneva Williamson Poole is an 
inspiration to countless members of her community as well as her 
beloved family.
  Geneva Williamson Poole was born on April 16, 1909, in Augusta, 
Georgia, to John and Mary Williamson. Geneva was raised with three 
sisters and two brothers and was brought up on strong Southern values 
and profound love. In 1936, she moved to Gary, Indiana, making her home 
with her four children: Justine, Virginia, Jerome, and Berniece, and 
her husband, Charlie Poole. Through the years, Geneva worked at many 
local businesses in Northwest Indiana, including: Barnette's Clothing 
Store, Dave's Fur Store, Westville Hospital, and Kingsbury Ordnance 
Plant. While she enjoyed the positions she held, Geneva devoted her 
life to her family and her community. Geneva's belief in strong family 
values has taught her children and grandchildren the meaning of a 
strong work ethic, the value of education, and how important it is for 
family and communities to stick together. Always leading by example, in 
1982, Geneva planted a community garden at the end of her block, and 
she would give the fruits and vegetables to the people of the 
neighborhood. An extraordinary cook, Geneva was also known for hosting 
elaborate dinner parties for family and members of the community. As a 
senior citizen, Geneva adopted two children, Kathy and Vanetta, and 
helped raise her thirteen grandchildren. In the summers, Geneva has 
enjoyed opening her home to her grandchildren and teaching them how to 
sew, cook, garden, and fish. Geneva's passion for family has touched 
not only those related to her but also many members of the community. 
For passing along such essential family values, Geneva is worthy of our 
deepest admiration.
  In addition to her remarkable dedication to her family, Geneva 
continues to serve her community as an active member at Israel 
Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Gary, where she participates in 
many of the church's programs. Geneva has many friends and loved ones 
within the church who look to her for advice. They share a common 
respect for her commendable qualities, including her intelligence, 
wittiness, strength and perseverance. She is truly an inspiration and a 
role model for us all.
  Madam Speaker, Geneva Williamson Poole has always generously given 
her time and efforts to preserving family values and strengthening the 
community in Gary, Indiana. She has taught her family, friends, and 
members of her community the true meaning of selfless devotion. I 
respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me 
in wishing Geneva a very Happy 100th Birthday!

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