[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 185 (Thursday, December 10, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2930]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING MELVIN FRIERSON ON HIS RETIREMENT AS A STAFF MEMBER OF THE 
                     U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JERRY F. COSTELLO

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 9, 2009

  Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to 
join me in recognizing Melvin Frierson as he retires after 23 years of 
service to the U.S. House of Representatives.
  Mel began his federal career as a staff member for Congressman Mel 
Price, in 1986. When Congressman Price passed away in 1988 and I was 
elected to fill the vacant seat, Mel remained as one of my senior staff 
members and he has served loyally and with distinction ever since.
  In addition to his work as a member of my Congressional staff, Mel 
has long been involved in local politics and was a precinct 
committeeman in East St. Louis for over 30 years. Mel is a 33d degree 
Mason and has been involved in Freemasonry for 40 years. He was the 
Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and 
Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois for 2 terms, from 1985 to 1986 
and is currently Deputy of the Orient for the Scottish Rite, Masonry, 
Prince Hall Affiliation in the State of Illinois.
  Mel's community and charitable involvement has been extensive. For 
years, he has delivered food to needy families during the holidays, 
often covering the cost himself. He has also participated in the Toys 
for Tots campaign as well as the Relay for Life which supports the 
American Cancer Society.
  Mel's faith and his family have always been his cornerstones. He is a 
long-time member of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, in East 
St. Louis. Mel's family, including daughters, Ingrid and Kimberly, son 
Brett and grandchildren have been a source of great pride and will no 
doubt see a good deal more of their father and grandfather now that he 
is retiring.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in an expression of 
recognition and appreciation for a loyal staff member and good friend.

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