Jim Costa: “It is with great pride that I recognize Audra McDonald, an award-winning actress and singer from my hometown of Fresno…”

“It is with great pride that I recognize Audra McDonald, an award-winning actress and singer from my hometown of Fresno, California. Audra, who I have the pleasure of knowing personally, made history on Sunday, if you were watching the Tony Awards, when she received her sixth Tony Award. This win makes her the most statue-laden Tony Award winner in our Nation's history. Audra's most recent Tony Award was for her incredible portrayal of Billie Holiday in ``Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill.'' Audra, who grew up in Fresno, began her career with my friend Dan Pessano and the Good Company Players while attending Roosevelt High School. She then went on to graduate from the Juilliard School of New York in 1993. Audra has seen great success on Broadway, television, and in the opera. In addition to having won three Tony Awards at the age of 28, Audra has also received numerous Grammy Awards, Drama Desk Awards, and Outer Critics Circle Awards. There is almost nothing that she hasn't performed in her field. She also has been able to display her talents at the White House and on the greatest stages in the world. Audra is not only an exceptional actress, but also a wonderful, giving person. She actively gives back to her community and seeks to improve the lives of those around her, including her family. Earlier this year, she held a benefit concert for Hands in the Community and is a supporter of marriage equality.…”