House Renames New Rochelle Post Office
September 10, 2007
Press Release
WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed unanimously a bill introduced by Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) to designate the Wykagyl Post Office located at 3 Quaker Ridge Road in New Rochelle, New York, as the "Robert Merrill Postal Station.”
“Robert Merrill was one of New York’s great treasures,” said Lowey. “His singing set the standard for theatrical and musical excellence. He left an indelible mark on the community of New Rochelle, and his cultural legacy is unforgettable for all those who experienced his legendary performances at the Metropolitan Opera, on Broadway, on television, or even at Yankees games. With its action today, the House of Representatives ensures that future generations will remember the contributions of this remarkable man.”
“Bob would have been thrilled beyond belief to have this post office named in his honor,” said Marion Merrill, widow of Robert Merrill. “I am grateful to Congresswoman Lowey for her work in getting this bill passed by the House of Representatives.”
Robert Merrill was a baritone for the Metropolitan Opera and performed for every President from Franklin Delano Roosevelt to Reagan. He was also the only singer to perform before President Truman, Congress, the Cabinet, Supreme Court and Mrs. Roosevelt at the Roosevelt memorial held in the United States Capitol on July 1, 1946. Robert Merrill also received several national honors: he was appointed to the National Council of the Arts by President Johnson in 1968 and bestowed the National Medal of the Arts by President Clinton in 1993. His rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner,” which he sang on Opening Day and on special occasions for more than twenty-five years, became a New York Yankees tradition beginning in 1969.
Passage by the U.S. House of Representatives clears the legislation to be considered by the U.S. Senate.
“Robert Merrill was one of New York’s great treasures,” said Lowey. “His singing set the standard for theatrical and musical excellence. He left an indelible mark on the community of New Rochelle, and his cultural legacy is unforgettable for all those who experienced his legendary performances at the Metropolitan Opera, on Broadway, on television, or even at Yankees games. With its action today, the House of Representatives ensures that future generations will remember the contributions of this remarkable man.”
“Bob would have been thrilled beyond belief to have this post office named in his honor,” said Marion Merrill, widow of Robert Merrill. “I am grateful to Congresswoman Lowey for her work in getting this bill passed by the House of Representatives.”
Robert Merrill was a baritone for the Metropolitan Opera and performed for every President from Franklin Delano Roosevelt to Reagan. He was also the only singer to perform before President Truman, Congress, the Cabinet, Supreme Court and Mrs. Roosevelt at the Roosevelt memorial held in the United States Capitol on July 1, 1946. Robert Merrill also received several national honors: he was appointed to the National Council of the Arts by President Johnson in 1968 and bestowed the National Medal of the Arts by President Clinton in 1993. His rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner,” which he sang on Opening Day and on special occasions for more than twenty-five years, became a New York Yankees tradition beginning in 1969.
Passage by the U.S. House of Representatives clears the legislation to be considered by the U.S. Senate.
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