[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 17 (Wednesday, February 1, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNITION OF SAM PROLER'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                            HON. KEVIN BRADY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 1, 2017

  Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Sam 
Proler's 100th birthday. The world was a different place when Sam 
Proler was born a century ago. The oldest of nine children, Sam was 
born to Ben and Rose Proler during war times. Sam started working at 
the age of 13 and was later joined by his brothers. Through hard work, 
innovation and perseverance, the Proler's achieved the American Dream--
Proler Steel Corp.
  What would become the country's largest scrap metal recycling 
operation, Proler Steel Corp, NYSE (PS), started from a meeting between 
Sam Proler and Henry Ford. It was that meeting that led to an idea that 
there could be a better way to recycle used cars.
  Through research and modifying mining machines, Sam Proler did what 
no one else had done before--he figured out how to melt entire vehicles 
in mere seconds. At that time, the recycling industry could not keep 
pace with the numbers of discarded cars each year. His invention was a 
game changer that helped reinvent the steel industry, and this led to 
the employment of hundreds of thousands of workers in the United States 
at more than 35 plants.
  Because of Sam Proler, used cars and appliances gained new life as 
recycled steel. In fact, his patented process is known around the world 
as ``Prolerized'' scrap.
  Sam Proler is one of America's original, innovative recyclers long 
before it was popular to be environmentally conscious. His innovation 
helped shape an American industry and protect our environment.
  When you go to sell a used car for recycling, remember the name Sam 
Proler. Because of him, that car will be recycled into steel in a 
process that saves energy, conserves our nation's natural resources and 
protects our environment.
  We know his lovely wife Marie, daughters Nina and Joyce, 
grandchildren and great-grandchildren are incredibly proud of what he 
has accomplished in his century. As we wish Sam Proler a Happy 100th 
Birthday, America also says thank you to one of our nation's innovative 
citizens.

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