Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to George Manias. a man who is a legend in my hometown of Peoria. Illinois. Yesterday. George Manias celebrated the 60th anniversary of the opening of his shoeshine business in Peoria. George Manias is the true personification of the American dream. The son of Greek immigrants who spoke no English when he came to Peoria. he was just 16 years old when he opened his business. From that first day in the corner of a downtown barbershop. George has worked tirelessly to make his shop a great success. George has shined the shoes of countless people. from his fellow Peorians to former Presidents Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan.
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