[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING THE 70TH BIRTHDAY OF GERALD MORRIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE ROGERS

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 5, 2024

  Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I ask for the House's attention 
today to recognize the 70th birthday of Gerald Morris. Gerald was born 
to Emma Lois and Toby Lee Morris on December 4, 1954, in Anniston, 
Alabama. He is one of six children. He graduated from Saks High School 
in 1972.
  On February 22, 1985, Gerald married Waltina Morris. They were 
blessed with five children and seven grandchildren.
  Gerald was inspired by his uncle, Edgar Morris, who was a tailor. He 
had his shop in downtown Anniston. Gerald worked at a men's clothing 
store named Phil's Men's Store and began doing alterations for 
customers there. He attended trade school and opened his own shop in 
downtown Anniston named Morris Alterations in 1981. As life would have 
it, his son was able to open a men's clothing store right across the 
street from his own storefront. Two of Gerald's daughters work 
alongside him daily.
  During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Morris switched gears at the shop 
and began making a variety of popular masks that sold from Alabama to 
Connecticut. After the pandemic, work was busier than ever as people 
went back to their social engagements, proms and weddings, they needed 
his artful craft to make their clothing perfect for them.
  Gerald has been in business for almost 44 years and attributes his 
success to all of his hard work and loyal customers. He has no plans of 
retiring. Gerald and his store are a fixture of downtown Anniston and 
Gerald gives back to his community by helping local schools.
  The Morris family attends New Jerusalem AFM Church of God.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Gerald on this milestone 
and wishing him a very happy birthday.

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