[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 5] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 6588] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE HARLEM COMMONWEALTH COUNCIL AS THEY CELEBRATE 41 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE HARLEM COMMUNITY ______ HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, April 22, 2008 Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker: Whereas, Since 1967, The Harlem Commonwealth Council has been dedicated to empowering the Harlem community through job creation and ownership of local commerce, industry and real estate. From the time of its humble beginnings, they have embarked in a mission to stimulate the overall economic development of Harlem through the creation of enterprises, generation of jobs, and improvement of services; and Whereas, Today, The Harlem Commonwealth Council has continued to hold firm on its pledge to serve the Harlem community by implementing successful ventures and programs through the years that promote self- sufficiency amongst its citizenry and create stability in Harlem through economic development projects, academic empowerment, and entrepreneurial support; and Whereas, Harlem Commonwealth Council has the distinction of having made historically significant contributions to its vibrant multicultural community in many instances without the financial support of governmental agencies or outside entities. Through a team of Harlem professionals, community and business leaders, it continues to engineer new initiatives that will foster and sustain economic prosperity to Harlem's residents and businesses; and Whereas, Leading the way towards the future of the Harlem Commonwealth Council is none other than the distinguished Harlem veterinarian Dr. Joseph L. Tait. While pursuing Veterinary goals, he became a Director in the Commonwealth Holding Company, Inc. Board. Through hard work and perseverance he gained the confidence of his peers who elevated him to the position of Chairman of The Council and ultimately the President and CEO. As President, Dr. Tait has shifted the focus to include reaching out to the young people of our community to offer opportunities for growth professionally and educationally; and Whereas, As the Harlem Commonwealth Council celebrates forty-one years of service to the Harlem community, it is important to note that when the world had given up on Harlem and urban communities like it nationwide, HCC and other community based organizations, business owners and residents did not. They continue to serve as a shining example of what people can accomplish when they are dedicated to a vision and work together to realize it; and Resolved, That along with all the residents in the 15th Congressional District of New York, I congratulate The Harlem Commonwealth Council on their forty-first anniversary. Through their unwavering efforts to secure the future of the Harlem community, The Harlem Commonwealth Council has contributed to the effervescent Harlem of today. ____________________