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Mayor Madore, Chairperson Poulin and Members of the Council.... I come before you this evening to endorse the proposal to rename the playground on North Street as a memorial to the late Judge Morton Brody and in doing so, I think I speak for all who knew Mort. Naming a public facility to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of an individual is a great honor and in this case, the tribute is especially deserving. All aspects of Judge Brody's life reflect the moral and social values that we as a society should cherish and encourage. He was committed to his family - his wife and children were always his first concern and always his greatest source of pride and comfort. He was dedicated to serving his community and did so generously - in elected office and on a host of boards and committees, and as a member of numerous community organizations. he was devout in the practice of his religious faith, and he lived his life according to those beliefs. He was successful in his professional endeavors, having served on Maine's Supreme Court as well as the bench of the United States District court. The list of his personal and professional achievements is lengthy and distinguished. In sum, Judge Brody was a person of substantial ability, solid character and great accomplishment. In designating the playground at North Street in Judge Brody's honor, you will be doing something far more important than simply recognizing a distinguished member of our community. You will be providing the youth of our city with an exemplary role model - an example of a life well lived. Someone after whom our children might pattern their lives. An authentic hero, if you will. And in this day, our children certainly need that kind of example, as will children in the generations to come. Approving this proposal provides a wonderful opportunity for the City Council to give the youth of our community a gift of great worth; a gift whose value will not be diminished by the years. I know you will want to do that. Nelson J. Megna November 8, 2000
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