[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 21]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 28955]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       A TRIBUTE TO AL AND VALERIE BISHOP, NORWOOD, MASSACHUSETTS

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                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 1, 2009

  Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
congratulate Al and Valerie Bishop who are being recognized by the 
Friends of St. Nick organization in Norwood, Massachusetts, for their 
generosity in helping those in need for over 25 years. The Bishops' 
planes have been on call 24/7 to assist with organ transplants and 
charitable flights that would not have been possible otherwise.
  Norwood is not in the Second Congressional District, but I feel I 
must add my congratulations to this fine couple, as their good deeds 
certainly affect people throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 
In May of 2007, Carol and Vincent Pietroniro of Feeding Hills, 
Massachusetts, were trying to help their terminally ill son Michael 
find a way to realize one of his lifelong wishes--to come to 
Washington, DC, and see the White House. When contacted about this 
special request, Al and Valerie Bishop did not hesitate; they supplied 
the private jet and pilots for Michael and his parents, as well as for 
3 physicians and an ICU nurse to make the trip.
  Needless to say, the trip was so special for young Michael. Sadly, 
Michael passed away a few short weeks later. I know that the kindness 
and generosity of Al and Valerie Bishop will forever be in the hearts 
and minds of Michael's parents, family and friends. Knowing that their 
son did get to realize his dream is so comforting to both them.
  I.commend the Friends of St. Nick on selecting Al and Valerie Bishop 
as their Couple of the Year for 2009, and I add my congratulations, 
best wishes and appreciation for all that they do.

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