[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 56 (Wednesday, April 18, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E576]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING NEWARK, NEW JERSEY MAYOR CORY BOOKER

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 18, 2012

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
honor Newark, New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker for his heroic efforts on 
April 13, 2012.
  Mayor Booker returned home last Thursday evening to find flames 
erupting out of his neighbor's home. His neighbor screamed that her 
daughter was still inside. The mayor ran inside without hesitation, 
hoping to rescue the woman he had known for years. In doing so, Mayor 
Booker suffered second-degree burns and smoke inhalation. The woman who 
was trapped inside the burning home suffered second-degree burns on her 
back. Mayor Booker's neighbor, Zina Hodge, said ``If Cory wouldn't have 
came in there and rescued me, I would have died in there.''
  Mayor Booker is one of our Nation's foremost Mayors. As Mayor of 
Newark, he has worked diligently to create thousands of jobs, reduce 
crime, and improve education. Mayor Booker's leadership has attracted 
approximately $100 million in private philanthropy to the City of 
Newark, and a variety of nonprofits and public-private partnerships 
have been created with the goal of improving the lives of Newark 
residents. Mayor Booker is a shining example of what being a public 
servant truly means.
  Mr. Speaker, Mayor Booker continues to strive to improve the lives of 
the citizens of Newark. I would like to recognize the Honorable Cory 
Booker for his determination, hard work, and bravery. His dedication 
and leadership are outstanding models for public service.

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