[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 129 (Monday, September 14, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING ROBERT AND IRWIN GOODMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 14, 2009

  Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the lifelong 
philanthropy of Robert and Irwin Goodman of Madison, Wisconsin. Irwin's 
death in August was mourned by his brother, Bob, their extended family, 
and an entire community touched in ways big and small by the Goodman 
brothers' generosity.
  Astute businessmen, Bob and Irv saw their business not as an end in 
itself, but as a means to nurture the minds, bodies, and spirits of 
their neighbors. They lived frugally, spoke softly, and gave 
continually and in great measure, guided by the lessons and love of 
their parents, Harry and Belle.
  Gifted athletes, Bob and Irv were health conscious long before 
fitness became fashionable. Their philanthropy helps kids learn to 
swim, seniors to exercise, families to eat healthfully, and women to 
compete on a level and luminous playing field.
  From the University of Wisconsin to Edgewood College, the Red Cross 
to Rotary, HospiceCare to Meriter Hospital, the first community 
swimming pool to a new community center, the imprint of Bob and Irv's 
generosity is felt by in every corner of the greater Madison community. 
And while some bricks and mortar bear their name, vast numbers of 
beneficiaries will never know of their largesse. The Goodman brothers 
would rather bring light to the dark corners of society than stand in 
the spotlight themselves.
  Steadfast members and supporters of Madison's Jewish Community, Bob 
and Irv's lifelong devotion to helping others of all backgrounds is 
grounded in the Jewish tradition of ``tikkun olam,'' (repairing the 
world) inherited, they say, from their beloved mother.
  Bob and Irv Goodman shared far more than a bloodline. They shared an 
abiding commitment to each other and to their adopted hometown. I join 
the greater Madison community in honoring their life's work and loving 
spirit.

                          ____________________