[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 165 (Friday, November 6, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2743-E2744]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    A TRIBUTE TO JUDGE JOSEPH WAPNER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 6, 2009

  Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my good 
friend Judge Joseph Wapner on the occasion of his 90th birthday. Judge 
Wapner is being honored by his many colleagues, family, and friends in 
celebration of his outstanding accomplishments, both in his 
distinguished legal and television career and his tireless dedication 
to public service.

[[Page E2744]]

  Judge Wapner is a lifelong resident of southern California. After 
graduating from Hollywood High School, he earned his bachelors degree 
from the University of Southern California and his law degree from USC 
Law School. He served in World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart 
and Bronze Star for his tremendously courageous acts in that conflict.
  After being appointed by Governor Pat Brown to the LA Municipal Court 
where he served for 2 years, he was elevated to the Los Angeles 
Superior Court, where he served until his retirement. During those 
years, Judge Wapner starred in the nationally syndicated program, ``The 
People's Court'' which made him a bona fide celebrity. Judge Wapner has 
also recently appeared as a judge in a ``Major League Baseball on Fox'' 
pregame People's Court parody segment called ``The Player's Court.'' He 
has starred, as well, in a number of influential political spots.
  Judge Wapner also is the author of two well-received significant 
books, A View from the Bench and Judge Wapner's Guide to Small Claims 
Court. The latter tome is widely used as a helpful tool to navigate the 
intricacies of our legal system.
  With an impressive list of civic organizations in which he takes an 
active interest, Judge Wapner is a highly respected member of the 
community. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of Alternative 
Living for the Aging, and serves as honorary chairman of the National 
Jewish Hospice. He is also the recipient of numerous honors and awards, 
including the Golden Glow Award from Senior Health and Peer Counseling 
and the Maimonides Award from the Legal Services Division of the Jewish 
Welfare Fund.
  Judge Wapner and his wife, Mickey, have been longtime supporters of 
the Brandeis-Bardin Institute, and the construction of the Moelle 
Library and tennis and basketball courts at the institute stand as 
symbols of their generosity and leadership.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in extending birthday greetings to my 
dear friend, Judge Joseph Wapner and in paying tribute to his 
dedication and outstanding contributions to our society.

                          ____________________