[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 67 (Monday, May 4, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1046]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      A TRIBUTE TO MATTHEW POLITE

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                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS-

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 4, 2009

  Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Matthew 
Polite, a leader in his community and an inspiration to all of New 
York.
  Matthew Polite was born in 1905 on the Island of St. Helena, off the 
coast of South Carolina. The only son of a former slave, Matthew 
understands well how freedom is a cherished gift to be used in the 
service of your fellow man.
  Matthew Polite and his wife, Netha, were wed in 1926. They moved to 
Savannah, Georgia, where he worked as a baker in Wholesome Bakery. 
After some years, they moved again to Miami, Florida where he continued 
as a baker. Matthew and his family moved to New York City in 1954. 
There he became the Deacon for the Orange Baptist Church in the Bronx, 
forging a lifelong relationship with the congregation. He served the 
church community with honor and distinction for many years until his 
retirement in 1969, when he returned to his hometown in Stavenhagen, 
South Carolina.
  Matthew Polite has since returned to New York City, surrounded by his 
friends and family, including his four children, nine grandchildren, 
twenty great grandchildren, fourteen great-great grandchildren, and two 
great-great-great grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Matthew Polite, a shining 
example of dedication to community service for all of New York.
  Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to 
Matthew Polite.

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