[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 150 (Wednesday, November 28, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1819]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO MATILDA SYKES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 28, 2012

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Maltida Sykes, 
a tenacious leader and advocate in the community and an inspiration to 
all of New York.
  Matilda, known affectionately as ``Mattie'', was born in 
Bennetsville, South Carolina. At a young age, she attended Sunday 
Service at Shiloh Baptist Church with her grandmother. Like her 
grandmother, she became a faithful church parishioner. As the second 
oldest of three siblings, she developed a loving concern for others.
  Her family moved to Brooklyn, NY, where she joined First Baptist 
Church of Crown Heights and started singing in the youth choir. She 
accepted Christ at an early age and became involved in youth ministry.
  Living in the big city, Mattie continued her education at Rothchild 
JHS and Bay Ridge HS, graduating and going on to further her education 
at Kingsborough Community College, where she majored in Business 
Administration and received an A.A.S. Degree. While attending college, 
she met her late husband John M. Sykes, Sr. They had one child, John M. 
Skyes, Jr.
  As a young mother, Mattie returned to the work force, landing jobs in 
the retail field. After that, she accepted a position with the NYC 
Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Child Care. During 
her 29 years in the department, she became an advocate for children, 
working on special projects with the Associate Commissioner. Mattie is 
also strongly active with District Council 37, working as a shop 
steward and delegate for Local 1549.
  Mattie worked in the community with the Neighborhood Youth Corp and 
summer lunch programs while sitting on the Board of the Five Block 
Daycare Center. She enjoys promoting AIDS and Breast Cancer Awareness 
at local health fairs around the city.
  Currently a member of the Bethany Baptist Church, Mattie has served 
as secretary to the Ladies Usher Board for several years. With the love 
and guidance she receives from above, she is content with caring for 
her elderly mother and watching her two darling granddaughters, Chyna 
and Aja Sykes grow up.
  Mattie enjoys spending her free time with her family and dearest 
friends whenever possible and truly feels the Lord's blessings.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Matilda 
``Mattie'' Sykes.

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