Congratulating the Dover Police Department on 100 Years of Service

Floor Speech

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Ms. McBRIDE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate the Dover Police Department on 100 years of service to the capital of Delaware.

Beginning in 1925, with a mere two-room office in the basement of city hall, over the past 100 years, the department has grown to more than 100 officers, as well as professional support staff divided over three divisions and nine functional units.

Led by their 15th chief, Thomas A. Johnson, Jr., these dedicated public servants put their lives on the line every day to protect public safety and support victims of crime in Delaware's second largest city.

In all they do, Dover Police are ingrained in the community, working alongside our educators, health professionals, nonprofits, and business partners, as well as regional, State, and Federal law enforcement partners. Their commitment to community policing and their behavioral health unit reinforces their compassionate and holistic approach to public safety.

On the centennial of the Dover Police Department, I thank the heroes who have donned the badge with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment to Dover.

A grateful State wishes the Dover Police Department a happy centennial. Recognizing Paul Calistro

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Ms. McBRIDE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the commitment of a dedicated community leader, Paul Calistro, to the State of Delaware. A former mayor of Newport, Delaware, Paul has been the executive director of West End Neighborhood House in Wilmington since 1991, working tirelessly to provide direct programs, services, support, and advocacy to Delawareans, their families, and our broader community.

For more than 140 years, the West End Neighborhood House has empowered generations of Delawareans to become and remain self- sufficient. Under Paul's leadership, West End has grown their impact, helping over 10,000 Delawareans each year. They provide meals, place people in long-term employment, secure stable housing, and teach critical skills to community members.

While the backbone of that work is the dedicated team of staff and volunteers at West End, at the heart of that work is the big heart of Paul Calistro. When being honored several years ago, Paul said that somebody has got to stand up and be an advocate for people who can't speak.

Whether they are a youth aging out of foster care or a single mom trying to get a good-paying job, Paul is an advocate for those too often left behind. Ever the selfless leader, as Paul celebrates his birthday this week, instead of asking for anything himself, he has asked people to support youth in foster care.

While Paul celebrates his birthday by supporting others, a grateful State celebrates Paul for his ongoing commitment to making Delaware a place that more fully lives up to our values as a State of neighbors.

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