[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 41 (Friday, March 3, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E173-E174]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF FRED RODGERS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILL FOSTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 3, 2023

  Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and 
legacy of Mr. Fred Rodgers, a fierce champion and advocate who helped 
guide the City of Aurora's young people onto a path of success.
  Mr. Rodgers was the City of Aurora's first ever youth services 
director, a role he held for 25 years. During his time, he directed the 
City of Lights Sports Tournament, the Aurora Sports Festival, Stepping 
Into the Arts Music Program, and several summer camps. He also 
coordinated several city events, including the Martin Luther King Jr. 
Day celebrations.
  Upon his retirement, Mr. Rodgers was recognized with the creation of 
the Fred Rodgers Community Center in 2009. He believed that our youth 
are essential for our community's future success, and it is estimated 
that Mr. Rodger's advocacy work impacted the lives of

[[Page E174]]

more than 25,000 Aurora children. In 1996, he traveled as part of a 
group to meet with former Alabama Governor George Wallace to offer his 
forgiveness for the Governor's racist views, which ultimately led to 
the Governor repenting his past remarks.
  Fred Rodgers always taught Aurora's youth to work with compassion in 
order to be good and productive citizens. I am proud to represent 
Aurora, and I, and many others, know that the incredible legacy left by 
Mr. Rodgers on the City of Aurora will provide a blueprint for our 
youth and community for years to come.

                          ____________________