[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 11] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages 15691-15692] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HONORING VERNA MOORE ______ HON. AARON SCHOCK of illinois in the house of representatives Tuesday, September 14, 2010 Mr. SCHOCK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Verna Moore, a true inspiration from my hometown of Peoria, Illinois. Verna will be turning one hundred years old on October 16, 2010 and plans to celebrate her birthday by spending time with her family. Throughout her life, Verna has inspired others with her positive attitude, warm personality, love of music, and active lifestyle. Verna was born on October 16, 1910 to John and Elizabeth Troker, owners of a coal mine in Peoria. She was the youngest of eight children and was always very close with her sisters, brothers, and cousins. Verna has been a resident of Peoria, Illinois her entire life. From a young age, Verna was always filled with love and possessed a giving soul. Under her father's influence, she was raised Catholic and it was from a nun in their church that she first learned to play the piano. She began lessons at a young age and immediately loved the instrument. Verna graduated the eighth grade from Lucy E. Tyng Middle School and began working in a warehouse. Her life changed when she first met her husband, Carthy Moore, near a pond at Glen Oak Park. They were immediately drawn to each other and married in 1936. Their marriage was built on love and stability, lasting nearly forty years until her husband passed away in 1974. The couple built their house from the ground up and Verna has lived in that same home ever since. Carthy made a living as a foreman at the Keystone Steel and Wire Factory in Martinsville, Illinois. Verna supported Carthy as a homemaker and mother. Her first and only child, William Moore, was born January 16, 1941. William fondly remembers his mother's wonderful baking and cooking, and the great care she always gave to him when he was sick as a child. As she grew older, Verna took interest in a Mennonite church down the road from her Peoria home. She soon began attending the church and later played piano during the services. She continued to play hymns for the church services up until just a few years ago. To this day she continues to stay active. Today she not only is a mother, but a grandmother, a great grandmother, and a great-great grandmother. Her love has affected the entire community. Through her vibrant spirit [[Page 15692]] she continues to inspire others, especially at the age of 100 years old. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, I wish to whole-heartedly congratulate Verna Moore on reaching the immense milestone of 100 years of age. I hope that every American can learn the important lesson of staying healthy and fit in both mind and body while maintaining a loving heart such as Verna's. ____________________