[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 30, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E410]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING SAMMY McDOWELL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ILHAN OMAR

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 30, 2024

  Ms. OMAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Sammy 
McDowell, who was a community leader, restaurateur, and friend to all.
  Sammy grew up in Minneapolis and was a fixture in the community 
throughout his life. He worked in food service for many years before 
starting his own catering service and restaurant. His flagship 
restaurant, Sammy's Avenue Eatery opened in 2012 on West Broadway 
Avenue in North Minneapolis. Not only has Sammy's served delicious food 
for over a decade, it has also become an important gathering place for 
the community. He had recently expanded and began operating a Sammy's 
Avenue Eatery pop-up in Saint Paul, in a space which features Black-
owned businesses. Even as a business owner, Sammy never compromised his 
generosity towards others and always went the extra mile to check on 
the wellbeing of his friends, as well as his customers. Sammy's passion 
for his community was contagious, and I know that the spaces he created 
will continue to be sources of friendship, inspiration, and comfort.
  Sammy was also a well known devoted member of Shiloh Temple and sang 
in the choir there for many years. He was worshiping among loved ones 
at Shiloh just before his death. He had a hand in many things 
throughout the community, and was always a familiar face at events 
around the city. This past week, a balloon release was held in several 
U.S. cities to celebrate Sammy's life. These nationwide celebrations 
are a testament to Sammy's admirable ability to make an impression on 
those around him. His company will be dearly missed by those who had 
the privilege to know him.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 
incredibly full life of Sammy McDowell and recognizing his 
accomplishments in entrepreneurship and community-building, and his 
immeasurable impact on the people and city of Minneapolis.

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