[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 23]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 31546]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




    IN HONOR AND RECOGNITION OF DR. WILLIAM HENRY ``BILL'' COSBY JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 11, 2009

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
Dr. William Henry ``Bill'' Cosby Jr.--a husband, a father, a renowned 
entertainer, and an activist who has recently been selected to receive 
the Kennedy Center's 12th Annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. 
His contributions as an author, writer, actor, singer, comedian, and 
television producer span every facet of the entertainment industry and 
his work is beloved around the world.
  In 1961, Mr. Cosby was the first African American to win the coveted 
Emmy award for his work on the TV show, ``I Spy.'' Since then, Mr. 
Cosby has garnered numerous awards for excellence in the performing 
arts including the Golden Globe, a People's Choice award, and Grammy 
and Emmy awards. His natural comedic talent was first noticed in 
college when he attended Temple University and worked as a bartender. 
His quick wit and laid-back style easily drew others to him, including 
the legendary producer and director Carl Reiner. During his successful 
career in entertainment, Mr. Cosby remained committed to education, 
eventually earning a doctorate degree in Education from the University 
of Massachusetts at Amherst.
  Mr. Cosby is a rare comedic genius. He is intelligent, creative and 
never relies on profanity. His popular stand-up comedy performances are 
drawn from personal experiences such as a childhood spent on the 
streets of Philadelphia and his experiences as husband and a father. 
His thought provoking performances feature themes of family, love and 
human fallibilities. In addition to stand-up, his work in television is 
well known. He worked on hits including the ``Electric Company,'' the 
animated comedy ``Fat Albert and The Cosby Kids'' and starred as Dr. 
Heathcliff Huxtable, the affable, educated and loving father on the hit 
comedy ``The Cosby Show.'' Mr. Cosby's work explored challenging family 
issues softened by comedy. His impact on children and young adults is 
immeasurable. Even today, Dr. Huxtable continues to be the most beloved 
television father of all time. Moreover, Mr. Cosby continues to be a 
mentor and voice of empowerment in urban and black communities. He 
uplifts and inspires young and old through public forums, music, humor 
and song. He continues to educate and encourage involvement based on 
the principles of family unity, community involvement and personal 
responsibility.
  Madam Speaker, please join me in honor and recognition of Dr. William 
Henry ``Bill'' Cosby. Mr. Cosby's brilliant artistry, unwavering 
activism and volunteer spirit continue to lighten hearts and enlighten 
minds by bringing hope and laughter to millions. Mr. Cosby has made and 
continues to make our nation and our world a better place.

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