On the recordFebruary 10, 2011
Mr. Speaker, as I rise today, I am mindful of events occurring in Egypt. And I want to extend my congratulations to the Lillian Trasher Orphanage of Asyut, Egypt, which is celebrating 100 years of service this month. As our ally Egypt stands on the cusp of a new future, one hopefully based on respect for democracy and human rights, we honor the people who have worked for decades to build an educated and productive civil society there. The Lillian Trasher Orphanage, begun in 1911 by an American from Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the oldest and longest-serving charities in the world. It currently serves over 600 children, along with widows and staff. This pillar of the community has been home to thousands of children who needed food, shelter, and a family. Orphanage graduates serve around the world as bankers, doctors, pastors, teachers, and even in the U.S. Government. Despite many challenges over the years, the wonderful staff, now led by George and Fathia Assad, has continued serving the children no matter what the circumstances. We applaud that cloud of witnesses over the past 100 years who have supported this organization through service, friendship, prayers, and donations. And we support and stand with this great institution and voice our ongoing support for this and other similar Egyptian grassroots organizations during this critical period in the nation's history. ____________________





